Irving, Texas. February 13, 2013 –

Marc Rodriguez, board chair for the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, presented a black bat to Irving city manager Tommy Gonzalez at a luncheon at the Four Seasons. The bat symbolized the city hitting a home run in snagging the Malcolm Baldrige Award.  “We hope you keep swinging,” Rodriguez said as he handed over the bat. Gonzalez offered heartfelt appreciation for the recognition and promised that he “will continue to swing.” Although the Baldrige Award is a top achievement, Gonzalez noted that doesn’t mean the work has ended. “It’s nice to have awards on the wall, but are you truly practicing what it means,” Gonzalez asked, adding how it’s important to integrate what is promised. He thanked “incredible employees” for the heavy-hitting results which have led to “a cleaner, safer and better city.”