Head Start of Greater Dallas celebrates
grand opening of Garland center

Posted November 19, 2011

Head Start of Greater Dallas has officially opened the Early Head Start Garland Center at 4580 West Buckingham Road. Despite turbulent times in Washington, the Office of Head Start offered HSGD an extremely rare opportunity to apply for Early Head Start expansion funds last year.

Head Start expanded Early Head Start (EHS) to Garland because children from low-income families ages 0-3 are the most underserved segment of children in the age 0-6 population. In Dallas County EHS serves less than 1,000 children between four providers so the expansion provided a much needed opportunity.

“Having the resources available to expand Early Head Start to Garland was an unexpected privilege for our organization. We are proud to open this center to so many families to help them get a head start in school and in life,” said HSGD CEO Wanda Smith.

The center currently serves 64 infants, toddlers and 16 pregnant mothers who live at or below the federal income guidelines for poverty. EHS provides pregnant mothers pre-natal counseling, support and parenting skills and provide infants, toddlers and their families education, family advocacy, health, nutrition and special services/mental health services.

The program included a performance by the children of EHS Garland, remarks from Garland Mayor Ronald Jones, HSGD CEO Wanda Smith and EHS parent volunteer Doris Meshak.

Students of Early Head Start are automatically accepted into the Head Start program once they reach the age of three years old. Families must apply and be accepted for services and must meet the federal income guidelines for poverty. Currently, the EHS Garland Center has a wait list of more than 100 children. To get involved or volunteer, please contact us at 972-283-6472 or visit the Head Start web site at www.hsgd.org.   

Photo captions:

EHS parent, volunteer, and recent SMU graduate Doris Meshak with her children who attend EHS Garland

Garland Mayor Ronald Jones, Head Start of Greater Dallas CEO Wanda Smith, Office of Head Start Program Specialist Geralyn Boyles, and Head Start Board of Directors President Clay Curtis

Several EHS children present Mayor Jones with a “key” to the center

Early Head Start opens Garland location

Posted November 13, 2011

The office of Head Start offered Head Start of Greater Dallas an extremely rare opportunity to apply for Early Head Start expansion funds in 2010. Head Start decided to expand EHS to Garland because children from low-income families ages 0-3 are the most underserved segment of children in the age 0-6 population. In Dallas County EHS serves less than 1000 children between four providers so the expansion provided a much needed opportunity.

Officially opening on November 1, 2010, EHS Garland serves 64 Infants and toddlers and 16 pregnant mothers.  The facility also provides services to 34 Head Start families with children between the ages of 3 and 4.  We serve a diverse population at this facility with families being one-third African-American, one-fourth Hispanic, and the remainder are families from other cultures like Vietnam, Turkey, and Pakistan to name a few.

EHS provides pregnant mothers pre-natal counseling, support and parenting skills and provides infants, toddlers and their families education, family advocacy, health, nutrition and special services/mental health services.  The curriculum used for EHS is the Creative Curriculum.  The program helps teachers build relationships with the children by showing them how to create meaningful daily routines and experiences that respond to individual children's strengths and interests. These early, positive interactions with caring adults give young children the confidence they need to explore their surroundings and take delight in their day-to-day discoveries.

All Head Start children are screened at the beginning and end of each school year to assess their developmental progress. The screening tool used for the EHS children is a researched base screening tool called the Denver II and they use the E-Lap as our ongoing assessment.  The screening tool used in our Head Start Classrooms is the Lap-D and use the Lap-3 as the ongoing assessment.  The results of these screening/assessment tools, along with input from the parent, are used to develop individualized goals for the children.

Children who are enrolled in Early Head Start enter our regular Head Start programs comfortable in a group setting, active in the learning process and part of family units that have access to resources to keep them healthy. Head Start teachers and staff are continually looking for the best information to give parents in our community about caring for their young children.

Zip codes served include: 75040, 75041, 75042, 75043, 75044, 75080, 75081, 75238, 75240, 75243, 75248, 75251, 75252, 75254.

Three generations involved in fight against breast cancer

Posted November 7, 2011

Friday-Sunday, November 4, 5 and 6, Garland resident Kim Lewis, 27, along with thousands of others participated in the 3-Day Walk for a Cure. Sponsored by the Susan G. Komen Foundation, this 60-mile walk raises funds help to find a cure for breast cancer. 

On Friday hundreds of walkers surrounded by loved ones and supporters left Plano’s Collin Creek Mall after the 7:30 a.m. opening ceremony.  The walk ended at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday with a closing ceremony at Fair Park.  Cheering stations were set up along the route where supporters gathered and celebrated with walkers, and pink tents were set up for evening sleep.  Food, water, snacks, medical assistance and rest stops were provided by volunteers.  

Lewis’ story of participation in this event started more than 20 years ago when her grandmother, Dottie McCandless, was diagnosed with breast cancer.  McCandless’ daughter, Sandy Paul of Garland got involved in the fight when her mother was diagnosed, and together, Lewis and Paul have kept the tradition going.  McCandless was in management at Southwestern Bell where she worked for more than 40 years.  She was a trailblazer for all women, being the first female in the state of Texas to be promoted to a district level management position. 

After her breast cancer battle, which resulted in a mastectomy, McCandless began to help other women with their breast cancer battles and donated countless hours and thousands of dollars in this endeavor.  Her daughter helped along the way by coordinating fundraisers, attending meetings of breast cancer survivors, and offering support for families who lost loved ones from this disease.  It is only fitting that Lewis get involved in the fight, making three generations of breast cancer awareness advocates.   

McCandless, called “Honey” by her grandchildren, suffered a severe stroke several years ago and currently lives in a nursing home, paralyzed on her right side, unable to walk, and confined to a wheelchair.  She beat breast cancer but sadly suffered another health event that took her from her family's everyday lives.  These events led up to Lewis making the commitment to the 3-Day Walk for a Cure. 

Each walker must donate or raise $2,300 to participate, and Lewis wanted to raise the money herself so that she could help make people aware of this disease and get people involved. 

Lewis started fundraising in April with a raffle and held several other fundraising events until reaching her goal in August by hosting a garage sale with items donated by friends and family members and hosting a bake sale.  She is a Girl Scout leader and received help from her troop, along with friends, neighbors, and family.  People also made donations through her website.  Her mom was a great help in the effort, working in every fundraising event.

Lewis is a life-long resident of Garland who attended Lakeview Centennial High School.  “She has always been a giver,” Paul said.  “Her Honey is proud of her, too.  She is unable to communicate it verbally, but you can see it in her eyes when I tell her about what Kim is doing for her and so many others affected by breast cancer.” 

On November 6 when she crossed the finish line, Lewis felt a great sense of accomplishment, knowing that she had done everything possible to make people aware of this disease and why it is so important to get involved. 

More than 2,700 walkers participated in the walk this year, and more than 450 volunteers helped with the event.  $7.1 million dollars was raised for a cure for breast cancer.

Posted November 7, 2011

Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, is a day set aside to recognize and honor all the men and women who are currently serving or have served in the United States Armed Forces.

President Woodrow Wilson established the holiday in 1919 on the first anniversary of the end of World War I as an expression of gratitude and pride in those who sacrificed their lives during that war.  Congress declared it a federal holiday in 1938, and it is observed on Nov. 11, or the nearest weekday.

In 1954, during the administration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 83^rd Congress changed the name of Armistice Day to Veterans Day to recognize the patriotism of World War II and Korean War veterans, and today, the holiday honors all veterans whether they served in times of war or peace and whether they are living or deceased.

Traditional Veterans Day celebrations include parades and ceremonies, and the President of the United States places a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington Cemetery.

Even though there is a specific day set aside to honor and recognize our Armed Forces, Americans should live in daily gratitude to these men and women.  While enjoying this country’s many advantages and freedoms, think of the sacrifices made by the members of our military, both currently and in the past. 

While voting for the candidate of your choice, worshipping the way you choose, or freely speaking your mind, think about the veterans of World Wars I & II, the Korean War, Viet Nam, as well as Dessert Storm and the current war on terrorism.  Their patriotism, willingness to serve, and love of country are the reasons that American citizens enjoy these freedoms.

“It is easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you.” former Vice-President Dick Cheney

Take a moment, as well, to honor and recognize the sacrifices made by the families of these men and women.  Each one of them is someone’s husband, wife, father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, nephew, or niece.  Think about these families and be mindful of the impact that protecting our freedom has on them.  The selflessness and courage of these families must be commended, as well as appreciated.

President John F. Kennedy articulately expressed that words are not enough to express our appreciation.  It is imperative that we prove our gratitude through our actions – by giving support and encouragement to our brave troops, as well as their families.

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy

President George W. Bush gives credit where credit is due through the following words: “Americans live in freedom because of our veterans’ courage, dedication to duty, and love of country.  On Veterans Day, we honor these brave men and women who have served in our Armed forces and defended our nation.”  President George W. Bush

Salvation Army hopes to raise $134K
in Garland with Red Kettle Campaign

Posted November 2, 2011

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign will be at more than 25 Garland locations this year. Funds raised in the red kettles provide operating revenue for the local Salvation Army community center.

Some locations will be available starting November 4. The remaining ones will be available starting November 25.

While many people assume the funds are used only at Thanksgiving and Christmas time, money raised in the kettles is stretched as far into the year as possible to fund year-round operations. Community services in Garland made possible by red kettle income include the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club, Youth Band and Singing Company, and Christmas assistance to the community.

The organization is seeking volunteer groups from churches and companies to cover red kettle sites for full days.  Volunteer groups may register to help at salvationarmydfw.org.

Kim Everett | November 1, 2011

Firewheel Town Center and Garland’s First Baptist Church teamed up to host a fall festival Saturday, October 29.  Kids flocked to the center dressed in their Halloween best to join in the festivities.  There were bounce houses, pony rides, petting zoo, and games for the children to enjoy. 

Radio Disney was in attendance to entertain the crowd with music, games, and prizes.  The festival was presented by DOLE, and all activities were free.

Firewheel Town Center also hosted a Trick or Treat event on Halloween for children 12 and younger.

Posted October 28, 2011

Texas State Representative Angie Chen Button was in attendance Thursday, October 27 to help kick off the Habitat for Humanity Women Build project in Garland.

A $25,000 grant from Lowe's was given for this Women Build project where the majority of the builders will be female. A description of the program follows:

“Women Build brings together women from all walks of life to address the housing crisis facing millions of women and children worldwide. Women Build events have helped to construct more than 1,900 houses. Lowe’s is a major sponsor and underwriter of Women Build and has generously supported our efforts for many years. Lowe’s sponsors National Women Build Week each year, provides competitive grant opportunities, and offers free how-to clinics for U.S. Women Build affiliates.

Lowe’s is committing more than $1.3 million to National Women Build Week 2011. They are also providing $5,000 Lowe’s store gift cards and event support materials to more than 250 Habitat affiliates.”

It was appropriate that Representative Chen Button was the guest speaker for this event because as a child, her seven person family lived in a 300 square foot, one-room hut without a kitchen or a bathroom in Taipei, Taiwan. 

She credits education with bringing her a better life.  Rep. Button met her husband Darcy as a graduate student at the University of Texas at Dallas.  They have lived in Richardson and Garland for 30 years.  Their son Dane is a Richardson Independent School District and University of Texas graduate.  Her  life has been the American dream Texas style.

New Beginning Center offers volunteer opportunities

Posted October 28, 2011

Garland’s New Beginning Center is passionate about ending domestic violence in our community. The agency has a variety of programs designed to aid families who have been affected by domestic violence, as well as extensive preventative programs with objectives meant to end domestic and teen violence.

The community is a key component to the redirection of the goal of the agency, the elimination of domestic violence, and there are several opportunities to get involved.  Call 972-276-0423 or visit www.newbeginningcenter.org to find out what you can do to help eliminate domestic violence in our community.

Also, don’t forget center’s resale store at 120 West Kingsley Road in Garland for great bargains. Merchandise donations are also accepted.  Proceeds benefit the mission of the New Beginning Center.

Garland preschooler sets
example for people of all ages

Kim Everett | October 26, 2011

Garland resident Holly Draper wanted to do more to help others and teach her children to do the same, so she and her daughter Abby, who will be 4 in November, have made a year-long commitment to do at least one service project each week. 

She is certain that even though they might not be able to change the world, they can make it a better place for some.  “Sometimes it is easy to feel small and insignificant in this world.  But, if you can make a difference in just one life on one day, that is still something really special,” Holly wrote in her blog at www.teachingtogive.wordpress.com.

She shared that she had never felt a specific calling … until it occurred to her that maybe it was to teach her children to be what she calls “Christ-loving gift givers.”  “If we all make it a primary focus in our lives to raise giving, loving children, then the world will surely be a better place when we leave it,” she wrote.

Their projects are chosen for their age appropriateness, and Abby’s 17-month-old brother, Jake, has even been able to participate in some.  Abby’s dad, Robert Draper, who is the choir director at Naaman Forest High School, is proud of the effort his family is making to make the world a better place.

The first thing Abby and her mother did was make cookies and brownies for firefighters at the station near their home.  They shopped for the ingredients together and had a great time preparing the treats.  The firefighters were glad to receive the goodies and Abby was happy to get to sit in the fire engine. 

One of Abby’s favorite projects so far was a birthday party they gave for kids at the Boys and Girls Clubs who had summer birthdays.  She helped decorate the cake and pick out decorations and all had a wonderful time.  Holly said that this was one of the most rewarding projects so far.  It was also the most expensive and time consuming.  “But, it was 110% worth it,” she said.  “The kids were overjoyed by the birthday party.” 

Abby particularly enjoyed this project for several reasons, but most of all, she knew that they were giving the kids something that they might not get otherwise.  “My mom told me that not all people get to have birthday parties,” she said.  Holly and Abby also enjoyed that some of their friends helped with the party.

Abby and her mom also enjoyed sending a care package to a soldier.  Holly visited www.anysoldier.com to select a recipient, and she and Abby shopped together for things to add to the package.  According to Holly, it was difficult explaining to Abby what soldiers are and what they do.  In the end, she told her that “soldiers sometimes have to leave their families and go far away to protect us and our country.”

Holly, Abby, Jake, and some friends teamed up to do a door-to-door food collection project in their neighborhood for September’s National Day of Service.  They filled a wagon with donated items as they knocked on doors and later took them to a local food bank.  Abby said that when people answered their doors, she said, “It’s National Service Day.  Do you have any food for the food pantry?”  She was happy that most of them donated to the cause.

Another favorite activity was when they collected what Holly called “pre-loved animals” and donated them to children at a local shelter. 

Last week’s project, aptly named “Reverse Trick or Treating,” included a visit to a local assisted living facility.  Holly, Abby, Jake, and several friends, dressed in their costumes and took goody bags to the residents who enjoyed visiting with the kids and getting the treats.

Abby enjoys doing things for other people and wants to continue doing their service projects.  “It’s nice to do nice things for people,” she said.  “I love the projects.”  She also said that it makes her happy to do things for other people.

Visit www.teachingtogive.wordpress.com for a complete list their projects.  Their work is sure to motivate and inspire.

Posted October 25, 2011

Bijal Patel, who started dancing at the age of six, will celebrate her debut solo performance in the art of Bharatnatyam Arangetram Sunday November 6 at the Granville Arts Center.  Dance in India has never been looked upon as mere physical but as a living experience that encompasses all the senses including the sixth sense.  The body is the instrument used to convey emotions through expressions, dramatic interpretation through poses, and the art of pure dance through the rhythmic movements of the whole body.

Bharatnatyam is the compound of Bha or Bhava (emotions), Ra or Raga (melody), Ta or Tala (rhythm) and Natyam (dance).  It is a dance form combining Bhava, Nritta and Natya set to a Tala to give Ananda or happiness.  It combines two different complementary types of movement – expressive dance which conveys classical poetry through mime, and abstract dance with rhythmic improvisation.  The hand gestures and mudras and the intricate footwork and expressions convey a story. The Arangetram is a tradition which means “ascending the stage.”  This event in a dancer’s life is the debut solo performance and makes the transformation from student to practitioner. 

A Bharatnatyam recital resembles the structures of a Hindu temple.  At this point the dancer has transported the audience and herself to the essence of this journey….and the journey begins.

The Gurus:

Smt. Bela Vasavada is the Director of Nrutyashala. She received formal training in Bharatnatyam at the school of performing arts at M.S. University Baroda. She is a disciple of Smt. Anjali Mehr, a leading exponent of Bharatnatyam.

In 1988 Smt. Vasavada established Nrutyashala and began instruction in Bharatnatyam in 1990.  Hundreds of students have received training from her.

Bani Maini has been with Nrutyashala since she was five and completed her Arangetram in 2006.  She participated in numerous local and national shows, performances and competitions in Indian folk dance categories, Punjabi, as well as Gujarati, prior and after her debut.  She teaches students at Nrutyashala and has been Guru to graduating students. 

Kanchana Shastri began her Bharatnatyam studies with Mrs. Roma Thakore in Canada before joining Nrutyashala in 1998. She completed her Arangetram in 2006, and is currently a sophomore at UTD. 

Ridhi Patel has been with Nrutyashala since 1995. She practiced Bharatnatyam for around 13 years and also taught at Nrutyashala for a year. She is currently pursuing a career in Business as an undergraduate college student.  Ridhi completed her Arangetram in Dallas in 2006.

Sidhi Patel began dancing with Nrutyashala at the age of 5. Being involved in Bharatnatyam and Folk dance for many years, she participated in competitions such as Fogana and was also involved in a couple of Nrutyashala performances such as Krishna Anuraag. Sidhi Patel is still involved with dance being involved with Raas Nationals which is a nationally wide Raas competition.

The Shishya (the Disciple) - Bijal Patel began to dance at the age of six under the tutelage of Smt. Bela Vasavada at Nrutyashala: School of Indian classical and folk dance.  Other than Bharatnatyam, Bijal's love of dance extends to the variety of folk dances that are also taught at the school. She has participated in all the annual dance recitals for both Bharatnatyam and folk dances at the end of each school year.

Bijal is in the International Baccalaureate Program at Garland High School and is in various clubs such as H.O.S.A., Student Council, Key Club, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honors Society, Friends of Rachel, and Chess Club. She also plays piano and volunteers as an assistant teacher at Nrutyashala.

On completion of her Arangetram, Bijal will continue to dance at Nrutyashala and teach at the school. 

Posted October 24, 2011

Four area students were recently awarded up to $10,000 each in scholarships from the II-VI Foundation to pursue a postsecondary degree in the areas of science, mathematics, and engineering for the 2011-12 school year.

Three of the students are from Garland.  Junior Nathan Sumrall is pursuing a degree in materials joining engineering at LeTourneau University.  Sophomore Robert Piper is studying chemical engineering at Texas A&M University.  Both Nathan and Robert are repeat recipients of this scholarship award.  Freshman Simon Ammanuel is in the biomedical engineering program at Johns Hopkins University.   

In addition to these awards, 38 other students around the country received scholarships.

The II-VI Incorporated Foundation Scholarship Program was established to encourage and enable student scholars to pursue an engineering-, mathematics-, or science-related degree at a postsecondary educational institution.  A scholarship award must be used for tuition, books, and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying institution.  Recent high school graduates and current college students are eligible.

The program provides for an initial scholarship for the freshman year at a university or college.  Scholarship recipients may re-apply each year for a maximum of four years.  The student must continue to meet the criteria to renew the scholarship in order to receive additional financial support for future years.  These criteria include completing at least nine weeks of practical, hands-on engineering-related work experience in an industrial environment during the ten months prior to the award, achieving an acceptable academic grade point average, and having no record of disciplinary action.

The private, nonprofit II-VI Foundation was established in May 2007 by Dr. Carl and Margot Johnson for the purpose of encouraging and enabling students to pursue careers in engineering, science, and mathematics.  Dr. Johnson is founder and chairman of II-VI, Incorporated, a worldwide corporation headquartered in Saxonburg, Penn. specializing in the fabrication of optics for laser systems.  The foundation supports students from areas surrounding the company’s domestic plant locations, which includes Dallas.  For more information, visit www.ii-vifoundation.com.

One woman’s courageous breast cancer battle

Kim Everett | October 8, 2011

Annalynne Palmer’s story of facing her breast cancer diagnosis in July, 2006 and her subsequent successful battle is one of faith and courage.  The Garland resident credits her faith in God and a support system of loving family and friends for helping her get through the diagnosis, surgeries, and chemotherapy treatments that have helped her stay cancer free for the last five years.

Palmer regrets that she had become complacent and had not been having annual mammograms, but when she noticed a lump in her breast, she immediately made an appointment with an internist.  Her physician found the lump suspicious and wasted no time in sending her for a mammogram.  The radiologist that read the mammogram also felt that there was something wrong and ordered a biopsy.

After having biopsies on both breasts, she was told that the lump on the left was malignant, and she and her family soon found themselves in the offices of an oncologist as well as a surgeon.   

Because Palmer’s cancer was HER2-positive, which tends to be a more aggressive type than other breast cancers, the oncologist recommended a mastectomy followed by chemotherapy.

After having CT scans to ensure that the cancer had not spread, having a port installed, and a negative lymph node biopsy, Palmer had a mastectomy on Sept. 21, 2006. 

Palmer’s drug protocol included rounds of Adriamycin, which is nicknamed “the red devil,” which she received because of her HER2-positive status, Cytoxan, Taxol, and Herceptin.  She experienced several difficult side effects such as losing her toenails and some fingernails, along with her hair.  She experienced fatigue, and although she never threw up, she often felt queasy.

The hair loss can be devastating for some patients, but it was not that difficult for Palmer.  “I think that the most important thing is what you are on the inside, not on the outside,” she said.   “The most important things I’ve learned from this are:  don’t sweat the small stuff and stop and smell the roses.”

She has many friends and a close family, and their support was vital to her battle.  “My family was in total support of the decisions I made about what I had to do, and I had strong friend support,” Palmer said.  “I couldn’t have made it without my family and friends.”

“The fact that there are people that care about you and they will take the time to call you, cook for you, and help you makes a big difference.  I knew I had a lot of friends, but I realized how much they care,” she continued.

Her family history includes breast cancer in several relatives – her mother, two aunts, and three cousins, so she was grateful that she tested negative for mutations in the BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes, which meant that her cancer was not the type that is passed on genetically. 

She used her experience to help others by doing volunteer work with breast cancer patients until she returned to full-time work.  “I had a strong feeling that the Lord wanted me to do that.  I felt that if I could share my story that I was alive and kicking, it would help other people,” Palmer said. 

Her advice for all women:  Have regular mammograms – the earlier it’s found, the better.  Her advice to women who have recently received a breast cancer diagnosis:

• Make sure you eat enough while having chemotherapy.  Many women lose weight because of the nausea and because food doesn’t taste right.
• Do everything your doctor says. 
• Keep a positive attitude and smile and laugh.
• Life is worth living.  Live every day to the max.

Because of her faith and strength, Palmer never wondered “why me,” and she was not angry about her diagnosis.  Her realistic, no-nonsense approach to life was a vital asset that helped her fight the battle head-on.  Through it all, she showed extraordinary strength.  “I never cried for myself.  I have a strong faith in God, and my feeling was that He wasn’t through with me yet.  I had more to accomplish, still had things I needed to do,” she said.

Posted October 5, 2011

During the Korean War, Debbie Reynolds spent several Christmases overseas entertaining American servicemen from Iceland to the Far East, as well as U.S. stationed army and air force bases. Christmas, 1952, found Debbie in Seoul, Korea.

Beyond the 38th Parallel, there was a concerted push by the Chinese communists on the Tenth Corps to do as much damage as they could on Christmas Eve, to completely demoralize the boys.

Christmas Eve in Korea

Most of the pressure went against the 45th Division, the Oklahoma National Guard. Reynolds' USO troupe, including actors Keenan Wynn and Johnny Grant, flew from Seoul up to the closet point they could go – and it was as close as anyone would want to go.

They did a show there, then came back and started a second one around 11 a.m. at the 1st MASH hospital unit. While the program was going on and just before the turkey dinner was to be served to more than 2,000 patients and GIs out front – twenty ambulances came down the dusty road which ran parallel to the stage.

Reynolds recalls: “Keenan and I were singing and dancing, but out of the corner of our eyes we could see the attendants take six or seven blanketed dead bodies out of each ambulance and place them down in rows – the boys who didn’t quite make it to Christmas Eve.”

“A lump came into my throat the size of an egg, and I don’t know how I kept on singing,” she said. “And perhaps I couldn’t have if it hadn’t been for those thousands of living faces out front, looking up at me as though to say ‘Keep on singing. We have seen what you have seen and our hearts are breaking, too. But keep on with the show, help us to forget for just this little while on Christmas Eve.’  And Keenan and Johnny and all our troupe kept on going for two hours after that.”

“Keenan told me later that all the time he was going through a hot jitterbug routine and making the boys laugh, the prayer that was going through his heart and mind was, ‘May God have mercy, may God have mercy.’”

Kim Everett | October 2, 2011

A neighborhood association is an organization based on geographic location that works to address common concerns and goals of its residents.  Through the effort of these groups, residents have an opportunity to improve neighborhoods while getting to know each other and building community pride.  The success of every neighborhood depends on the unification of its members.

Reasons for creating or participating in an existing association include:  added security through knowing neighbors; ability to contact neighbors during emergencies; planned social activities that promote a sense of belonging; ability to identify and solve specific neighborhood problems as a group; influence of the group when requesting assistance of city officials; registered associations receive updates from the city containing news that effects their areas and the city as a whole

There are two types of neighborhood associations – mandatory (often called homeowners’ associations) and voluntary.  Mandatory associations require the membership of all residents, payment of dues that are usually set by the developer, who also commonly registers the association with the city.

Voluntary associations are commonly those that are started by concerned and interested residents to enjoy the benefits described above.  Voluntary groups may or may not charge dues, but member contributions are suggested as a show of commitment.

Starting an association can seem overwhelming, but the process consists of just a few steps:

• Gather a group of four to six interested residents.
• Hold a meeting of this group to discuss goals, issues, and concerns such as crime reduction, neighborhood beautification, or noise/traffic problems.
• Determine the boundaries of the neighborhood, and compile a list of residents/property owners.
• Divide the list of residents among the core group and visit all residents to evaluate the amount of interest and to collect contact information so that they can be invited to an introductory meeting.
• If sufficient interest exists, schedule a meeting to compose by-laws and elect officers.  Ask residents to begin considering goals for the association’s first year.
• Register association with the city by calling the Office of Neighborhood Vitality at 972-205-3864.

Suggestions for success:

• Involve all members by delegating tasks according to each person’s interests and expertise.
• Listen to everyone.  Consider all points of view and ideas.
• Set a regular meeting date and time, for example, the first Thursday of each month, 7:00 p.m.
• Respect members’ time by keeping meetings on track and following an agenda.
• Plan fun activities as well as work-related ones to ensure interest and commitment.
• Publish a quarterly or monthly newsletter and/or develop a website to keep members informed.
• Express gratitude to members for their efforts and specifically recognize accomplishments during meetings, in the newsletter, and on the website.
• Invite guest speakers, such as employees of Garland’s Office of Neighborhood Vitality and local business owners to meetings.
• Rotate meetings in homes of members, or conduct them in a neutral location such as a church or community center, so that no member has more power than another.
• Set realistic goals, and remember that realizing neighborhood improvements/goals takes time.

Visit www.ci.garland.tx.us for a comprehensive guide on neighborhood vitality, organizing a neighborhood association, and information on the upcoming Neighborhood Summit to be held October 22.  The summit, which will be at the Atrium at 300 North Fifth Street in downtown Garland, starts at 8 a.m., and is sponsored by Garland Power & Light, North Central Texas American Planning Association, and the Garland Chamber of Commerce.  Call 972-205-3864 for more information.

Kim Everett | September 24, 2011 -- Photos by Laurinda Falk

Artists John Slaughter and “American Idol” finalist Jason Castro headlined QueFest at Firewheel Town Center on Labor Day weekend, Saturday, September 3 and Sunday, September 4.  There was live music, great food, a children’s zone and more for festival goers of all ages.

All proceeds from QueFest went to benefit the Rowlett Exchange Club’s Child Abuse Prevention Centers, including Adopt-A-Family and Believe in the Blue programs. Adopt-A-Family purchases Christmas presents for underprivileged families. Believe in the Blue project focuses on promoting strong, healthy families through positive parenting.

Other musical acts appearing at the event included: Chin’s Mojo; Strataktaz; Bad Moon Rising; Altered States; The Neckties; Fritz Schultz; and the Dirty Boot Band.

Event sponsors were the Rowlett Exchange Club; Firewheel Town Center; DART; Heritage Christian Academy; Massage Envy; Rusty Wallis Honda; Verizon FIOS; and Milestone Electric.

Kim Everett | September 24, 2011 -- Photos by Laurinda Falk

Legendary jazz artist Ramsey Lewis performed “The Gospel According To Ramsey Lewis” Friday, September 2 at Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church.  The concert kicked off the church’s UNITY FEST event which lasted through Saturday.

Mayor Ronald Jones and Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox were on-hand for the concert, and Jones presented Ramsey with a proclamation from the city.

According to photographer Laurinda Falk, Lewis was amazing.  “When he sat down at the piano, it was like he was 25-years-old again.  It’s like the piano transformed him,” she said.  “Jesus Christ was in the house that evening.”  Falk also enjoyed the stories that Lewis told and used the word “unbelievable” to describe the closing number, “Oh Happy Day,” which Ramsey performed with the church’s choir. 

All contributions received during the event will benefit the Mount Hebron Urban Community Housing fund, which is a non-profit organization that helps prevent homelessness.

Saturday’s events included health screenings, a blood drive, a basketball tournament, vendors, a carnival, food, and talent showcases with singers, dancers, and comedians.

Posted September 24, 2011 -- Photos by David Alvey

Every dog has its day. Or at least every dog at Wags & Waves on September 17 at Hawaiian Falls Garland had it made in the shade. For the third consecutive year, the Metroplex Animal Coalition held the World’s Largest Doggie Pool Party at the waterpark, and it was hard to tell who was having more fun, the canines or their human companions.

From tiny Chihuahuas and playful terriers to massive bloodhounds and great Danes, dogs splashed in the Waikiki Beach wave pool, ran the floating obstacle course at Splashwater Falls and floated down the Lazy River on tubes with their humans.

From groomers and pet toys to waste removal services and pet micro chipping, vendors offered their wares throughout the park. The Big Guns provided live surf music at the wave pool. There were even costume contests and pet tricks so the furry friends could have their spot on the main stage.

“It’s really wonderful seeing so many happy dogs and happy owners coming together to enjoy themselves and have fun,” said Jonnie England, director of animal advocacy at Metroplex Animal Coalition. “Like every nonprofit organization these days our greatest challenge is raising funds and raising awareness of our mission.  The Metroplex Animal Coalition, or MAC, is not really a household name yet, primarily because we don’t have a shelter and we aren’t a rescue organization offering animals for adoption.  But MAC is a leader in the DFW animal-welfare community. We offer a free spay/neuter program for the pets of low-income families. And we are advocates for the humane treatment of animals and responsible pet ownership.”

“It’s absolutely possible for anyone to make a difference in an animal’s life,” concludes Ms. England. “Volunteer; donate towels or toys or newspapers to your local shelter. Foster a homeless animal until it can be adopted. And make sure your own pets are spayed and neutered!  Any and all of these actions are making a difference.”

Metroplex Animal Coalition is an alliance of more than 50 nonprofit animal welfare-organizations in Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties working together to save as many dogs and cats as possible. More information is available at http://www.metroplexanimalcoalition.org/

Hawaiian Falls held the fundraiser on the last day of the 2011 season since they would be draining the pools for the off season the next day. Hawaiian Falls employs more than 850 people at waterparks in Garland, Mansfield, The Colony and Roanoke. The parks will re-open Memorial Day weekend 2012. Season passes and more information is available at http://www.hfalls.com/

Photos:

l-r:  Bob Walton, founder/publisher, "Urban Animal" magazine; CBS-11 reporter and emcee J.D. Miles; Terri Stringer, regional training manager, Petco; Jonnie England, director of animal advocacy, Metroplex Animal Coalition; and Dr. Jennifer Wilcox, president, Stonebriar Vet Clinic, Frisco

“Gidget goes Hawaiian” bulldog-boxer mix Gidget won first place in the costume contest

Neo, a border collie, won first place in the Pet Tricks contest.

Photos from www.garlandeyes.com, a website started by District 1 Councilman Douglas Athas, are currently on display at the Granville Arts Center at 300 North Fifth Street in downtown Garland.  The exhibit will run through October 31, and viewing hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. and during all performances.  The exhibit, which consists of 59 photos taken by 20 different photographers, marks the first anniversary of the site.

Douglas Athas | September 17, 2011

Garland is an old community with its own unique and special heritage. Those of us that live here often see some of the more common places and events that make the city unique and we each know plenty of people from Garland that travel and see many corners of the world. We, however, don't see all the small, wonderful things that happen in our neighborhoods and with our friends and we don't each get to visit each corner of the planet.  Garland Eyes is a way to show what we see and graphically tell the stories we want to share.

I have been interested in photography since high school when I worked on the yearbook and in college when I worked as a photographer for the college newspaper, also for the yearbook, as a part-time photographic technician for the UT-Austin College of Business helping professors create slide presentations, and a summer job working in the Rio Grande Valley for the Texas A&I ag extension station taking pictures of grapefruit, oranges, and bugs. It was the latter job that was the most demanding technically and required me to learn a lot more about photography. I learned you could shatter a professor if his lemon was the wrong shade of yellow or his moth was killed under bright lights. I had to learn more about photography that summer than most people learn in a lifetime. I sought to emulate the photographic greats like Ansel Adams, Imogene Cunningham, Edward Weston, members of Group f:64, photographic leaders that transitioned photography from a median that imitated painting to its own art form of sharp-focused, well-composed, precisely-developed images.

GarlandEyes.com was something that I crafted mentally for a few years before creating the site. I didn't actually start the site until I found an Internet hosting service that met my expectations and I had enlisted the help of my friends Frank Wilkins and Linda Jaresh. The challenge of posting a new image each day is very rare on the Internet even for the hundreds or thousands of photo blogs that exist and I couldn't do it without their constant help and encouragement. Even with so many photo blogs out there, Garland Eyes is the first citywide, city-themed photo blog.

We say: Garland Eyes is Garland, Texas. Garland Eyes is stories of Garland and what we see, told with a camera, one image at a time, in Garland or anywhere in the world. The stories can be powerful while muted. Personal while public. Edgy or square. Simple or indescribable. Whatever they are, they are our stories. All photos displayed on Garland Eyes are of Garland, or by a Garlandite, or of a Garlandite. Our philosophy is: the "stories" should be simple-the adage, a picture is worth a thousand words, is appropriate. Let the image do the talking. We generally prefer photos that are on the artistic side, that moved the photographer one or two steps beyond his or her comfort zone, that bring a new perspective to the common view.

I have been constantly pleased to see what residents have submitted. To be blessed with a chance to look through the eyes of my friends and neighbors has been more rewarding than I could have imagined. That so many people have been willing to share without reservations their personal visions and "stories" is humbling and entertaining!

Garland Eyes is a nexus of what we see and a unique place to gather that can't be duplicated in a coffee shop or anywhere else, except maybe a photo exhibit.

Posted September 12, 2011

The Tri-County Veterans Honor Guard is looking for a few good men and women. The group needs more military veterans on weekdays to provide a full burial ceremony to veterans.

Their mission is to see that each deceased veteran, regardless of rank or length of service, receives full honors including a twenty-one shot volley, folding and presentation of the flag, and taps played on a bugle.  Those who would like to share two or three hours per month should contact Brent Erickson or Gene Allen at 972-635-9293 for details.  The Honor Guard does not receive compensation, but the experience is priceless. Visit www.tricountyveteranshonorguard.org for more information.

Posted September 11, 2011

Garland artist Anna Rose Bain will be sending a painting to the Western Regional Exhibition of the Oil Painters of America.  Now in its 21^st year, OPA is dedicated to preserving and promoting excellence in representational art.  Anna’s piece, “Passé in Orange,” is a charming figurative painting depicting a dancer with arms outstretched, and is part of a series of three, all in different color schemes and poses.

“Passé” is one of only 97 pieces accepted into the exhibition, which will take place from October 8-October 30, 2011 at the Lee Youngham Galleries in Calistoga, CA. The opening reception is on October 8 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. and will be open to the press, artists, and collectors.  For more information on the exhibition, visit www.oilpaintersofamerica.com. 

Anna is not a newcomer to fine art competitions; her work, “Twin Arts” was a finalist in this year’s prestigious Hunting Art Prize, an annual competition open to Texas artists and sponsored by Hunting PLC. She was also a recent finalist for her portrait and figure work in International Artist Magazine, December-January 2011 edition. 

In addition to creating beautiful figurative, still life, and landscape paintings in oils, Anna is a successful commissioned portrait artist, with work in private and corporate collections across the country. She is represented locally by Weiler House Fine Art in Fort Worth. To view more of Anna’s work, visit her website at http://www.artworkbyannarose.com.

‘Splash out Hunger’ campaign big success; more than 10,000 items collected
 
Posted September 10, 2011 -- Photos by David Alvey

The “Help Hawaiian Falls Splash out Hunger” Food Drive, benefiting North Texas Food Bank and the Tarrant Area Food Bank, kicked off August 1 and ran through Labor Day. With collection points at all four North Texas waterparks, the drive collected more than 10,000 non-perishable food items.
 
“We were thrilled with the results of the food drive,” said David Busch, Hawaiian Falls CEO. “The community really stepped up and exceeded our expectations. We are honored to play a small part in this effort.”

Hawaiian Falls offered guests the opportunity to bring a non-perishable food item to any of its four North Texas waterparks to receive $5 off an adult admission ticket. Food items collected at the Garland and The Colony waterparks were donated to the North Texas Food Bank. Items collected at Mansfield and Roanoke went to the Tarrant Area Food Bank. Both agencies were very pleased with the results.

While food donations are needed year-round, the need is even greater in the summer when school-aged children do not have access to free and reduced-cost school lunch programs. “With the current economic crisis, we’ve seen a much greater demand on area families,” said Jo Ann Biggers, volunteer coordinator for the Tarrant Area Food Bank. “We get the food to agencies in the surrounding communities where they can distribute it locally. It’s especially important in rural areas where transportation is an even greater concern.”
 
The Tarrant Area Food Bank was chartered in 1981 and began distributing food the following year. It is a private not-for-profit organization serving Tarrant and 12 neighboring counties on the west side of the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area.  For more information, visit http://www.tafb.org.

The North Texas Food Bank was established in 1982 to address the critical issue of hunger in the North Texas area including Dallas, Denton, Collin, Fannin, Rockwall, Hunt, Grayson, Kaufman, Ellis, Navarro, Lamar, Delta and Hopkins. It is a certified member of Feeding America Food Bank Network. Visit http://www.ntfb.org for more information.
 
Photo:  Clint Hill, general manager, Hawaiian Falls Garland; Asriel Eford, communications manager, North Texas Food Bank; and Jim Patterson, sales director, Hawaiian Falls The Colony
 

Jaycees host 66th annual Labor Day Parade

Kim Everett | September 6, 2011

The Jaycees' 66th annual Labor Day Parade was enjoyed by people of all ages on Monday, September 5.  The skies were blue, and the oppressive heat had finally given way to cooler temperatures.  Marching bands, drill teams, cheerleaders, athletes, scouts, clowns on four-wheelers, and other groups entertained spectators that lined the downtown Garland streets.  Local, state, and national politicians were also there to shake the hands of constituents.

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CrossFit Garland hosts fitness event
benefitting families of fallen soldiers

Posted September 3, 2011

In 1970, Robert Selders, Sr. traveled from the United States to fight in the Vietnam War, leaving behind his wife, his 1-year-old daughter, and a 3-month-old son, Robert Selders, Jr.  “My Daddy was blessed to make it back home; some of his closest friends died in Vietnam,” said Selders.  “I can’t begin to imagine what my life would be like if I didn’t have my father.  My heart goes out to those that have lost a loved one in the line of duty while protecting our country’s freedom.”

“I came from a military home, and I have friends that have served.  I understand firsthand the struggles that military families face, and I want to do all that I can to give to those that give to us each day,” Selders continued.  “They sacrifice their lives, families, futures, and much more when they go off to protect our country.  It’s personal for me, and I feel it’s extremely important that we do what we can on our end to support and take care of them and their families. This is why we are hosting Fight Gone Bad 6.”

When members of the community, CrossFit Garland, and several local area CrossFit affiliates step up for their 17 minutes of the Fight Gone Bad workout on September 17th, they won’t be competing just for themselves. They’ll also be raising funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, the Infant Swimming Resource/CrossFit Kids Initiative, and Camp Patriot.

“Fight Gone Bad captures people’s everyday commitment to personal fitness and, for just one day, leverages it to raise money for causes that work to address immediate needs in our country,” Selders, owner of CrossFit Garland, said.  “It’s a proven model that rallies the community and brings people from all walks of life together to achieve significant fundraising goals and we are pleased to be part of it.  We’re expecting a huge turnout and we just want everyone to come out a have a great time!”

Register to participate, make a donation, or simply come out to show support…every dollar counts, so give what you can. Let’s show our troops and families how much we care.

In the first five editions of the Fight Gone Bad event, CrossFit affiliates have raised more than $4 million.  The event will take place on Saturday, September 17 at more than 1,200 CrossFit affiliates throughout the United States and around the world at 6 a.m. EST until 6 p.m. PST.  Last year, over 6,500 people participated, raising more than $1.5 million for the charities in a single day. This year they seek to break the $3 million mark.

In this workout, participants move through five stations for one minute each. Upon completion of the “round” of exercises, they get a minute to rest and go for two more rounds. Scoring is based on the number of repetitions the athletes can complete in each minute. The workout was given its name by World Ultimate Fighting Champion BJ Penn, who remarked after finishing, “That was just like a fight gone bad.”

To participate or make a donation, contact CrossFit Garland or visit www.CrossFitGarland.com.  You may also register for the event at http://sportsgrants.org/fgb6/.

Sponsorship opportunities are available.  Call 972-494-2545 or email Info@CrossFitGarland.com for more information.

Posted September 3, 2011 

Wags & Waves, a pool party for people and their dogs presented by the Metroplex Animal Coalition, has been named a Top 10 Finalist in a national fundraising awards competition.

StayClassy, a leader in social fundraising for nonprofits, announced the finalists for the third annual CLASSY Awards on Monday, August 29.  Wags & Waves was named a finalist in the category for “Most Successful Fundraiser by an Individual/Group.”

The CLASSY Awards is the largest philanthropic awards ceremony in the country, recognizing the most outstanding philanthropic achievements by charities, businesses and individuals nationwide.  From July 25 to August 26, voting was opened to the public to determine the finalists.

With more than 2,000 nominations submitted to StayClassy for consideration, Wags & Waves has been through a long process to make it to the final round, including garnering at least 100 Facebook ‘Likes’ on their nomination story and being chosen as a Top 25 Finalist during an initial judging round.

Wags & Waves has taken place since 2009 at Garland’s Hawaiian Falls and gives pet owners an opportunity to take advantage of the park’s pools and water attractions along with their canine companions.  Attendance has grown from 475 people and approximately 500 dogs in 2009 to 1,020 people and at least 800 dogs in 2010. 

Proceeds from Wags & Waves benefit the Metroplex Animal Coalition and its member groups.  MAC provides free spay/neuter surgeries for the pets of lower-income families. 

This year’s Wags & Waves event will be Saturday, Sept. 17, the same day that the CLASSY Award winners will be announced at a ceremony in San Diego.    

A combination of public votes and a decision by a panel of industry professionals will determine whether Wags & Waves will be a CLASSY Award winner for its category.  More than $150,000 in cash and prizes will be donated to support the causes of the 12 National CLASSY Award winners.

“We’re thrilled that Wags & Waves has made it to final round for the CLASSY Awards,” said Jonnie England, director of animal advocacy for MAC.  “This event has grown in attendance and recognition in just a few years.  Wags & Waves is a great way for pet lovers to have fun with their dogs while raising funds for an important cause.”

Tickets to this year’s Wags & Waves are $20 and can be ordered online at www.WagsAndWaves.org. 

Posted August 30, 2011

The Price Is Right just announced Dallas/Fort Worth as the next participating market in its annual casting call on Thursday, Sept. 1 for contestants to appear during the 40th season of the game how.  Contestant searches are taking place in and around cities across the United States.  Representatives from each participating local CBS-owned and affiliate station will be on hand to interview and videotape contestant hopefuls vying for free trips to Los Angeles with guaranteed spots in the studio audience. 

Two participants will be selected from each market to fly to Los Angeles and attend a taping of the game show starting in the fall.  A bidder's spot on Contestants' Row will be guaranteed to one of the two participants, who will learn if they are selected to "come on down" when they hear their name called during the show's taping.  

The Dallas area search will be held Thursday, Sept. 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Randall Reed’s Prestige Ford, 3601 South Shiloh Road in Garland.

Applicants must be legal U.S. residents, aged 18 and over.  Official rules can be found on each individual station's Website, and upcoming schedules will be posted on www.cbs.com  and www.priceisright.com.

The Price Is Right is hosted by Drew Carey.  Produced by FremantleMedia North America, the show is broadcast weekdays 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. central time on the CBS Television Network. 

 Garland woman sings way to semifinals in jingle contest

Kim Everett | August 29, 2011

Lola Pebley of Garland was recently named one of 20 semifinalists in the Waggin’ Train dog treats contest which asked dog owners to write a jingle about “tail waggin” good times they share with their dogs.  Garland residents can help Lola become one of five finalists who will travel to Nashville to perform their jingles for country star Trace Adkins by voting for her jingle at www.waggintrainbrand.com.

Linda Johnson, a friend of Lola’s heard about the contest on the radio, and knowing that Lola likes to write songs, she suggested that she enter.  With the help of her daughter Shawna, granddaughter Heather, and companion Tony, she put the finishing touches on her newly written jingle about Waggin’ Train treats and Oliver, her Chihuahua mix; made a video; and submitted it. 

Lola was thrilled to learn that she was one of the semifinalists.  “This has really been fun, and Waggin’ Train is a good product,” she said.

She has always enjoyed writing songs and was in choir in both middle school and high school.  Lola has lived in Garland for two and one-half years and works as a florist at an area grocery store.

Votes will be accepted until Friday, September 2 at noon, and Lola would appreciate help from the community.  “I’m hoping Garland residents will log on and vote for me.  I hope to win and get to go to Nashville,” she said.  “Public votes count as 20 percent of the final decision.”

The five finalists, selected based on the public vote and Trace Adkins’ scores, will fly to Nashville where they will perform their jingles live in front of Adkins at a private event during the CMA Awards week.  Adkins will decide the winner who will then go into the studio and record it.  The winner will receive an autographed CD of their jingle, and it may be featured at www.waggintrainbran.com and on the brand’s Facebook page.

Click here to see Lola’s and Oliver’s video.

Posted August 29, 2011

After a week of voting, consumers have selected the Wideman family of Garland as one of two winners of Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity's first-ever Design Duel competition. The competition will challenge an interior design firm to redesign the family's living and dining rooms in three weeks using only items from Dallas Habitat’s ReStores and a budget of $3,000.

The Widemans will be paired with a team of interior designers from Pickard Design Studio. Their competition, the Thomason family of Mesquite, will work with a team from Wilson Associates. The Design Duel will culminate as the firms battle for bragging rights. Their work for both families faces a public and expert panel's vote starting September 20.

The makeovers come at pivotal times for both families. Both are self-described “total DIYers” who have redone several rooms in their home, but with two kids under the age of six and two large dogs, enjoying their tight living room is a challenge. They hope their design team will help them get the most out of their space.

Brad Thomason, wife Toni and their two sons are adjusting to life following a job loss, leaving no budget for remodeling. They applied for the Design Duel in hopes of creating a living area that allows them to spend more time together and are a step closer to their goal.

Visit www.designduel.org to view “before” pictures of both families' rooms. The redesigned spaces will be revealed for a public vote from September 20-23. Results will be announced September 26 following an expert judging panel's critique and the winning interior design team will be named. Judges include Tracy Kornet of CBS 11; Barbara Gilbert of Barbara Gilbert Interiors and the Interior Design Society; Charla Blake of the Art Institute of Dallas; Peggy Levinson of D Home; and Christopher Wynn of FD Luxe.

Dallas Area Habitat ReStores are located at 2800 North Hampton Road in Dallas and 451 West Interstate 30 in Garland. A third store is slated to open in mid-September at 3546 Forest Lane in Dallas.

About Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity ReStores® - Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity ReStores® sell new and gently used home decorating and improvement products such as cabinets, light fixtures, ceramic tile, laminate flooring, rugs and furniture at 50 to 70 percent off the retail price, with all proceeds going toward the construction of new Dallas Area Habitat homes.

About Pickard Design Studio - Established in 2006, Pickard Design Studio is an internationally-recognized design firm noted for creating room designs with a sophisticated color sense and refined use of materials. The firm offers a full range of interior design services, from space planning and design through construction. Founder and President Sarah Pickard's 15-year, award-winning career spans creating interiors for hotels, restaurants, resorts, spas, clubs, offices and high-end residential properties. In 2010, Pickard was named one of Dallas’ Top Ten Interior Designers. She will be featured on HGTV's Real Estate Intervention in September. For information, call 214-902-0069 or visit www.sarahpickard.com.

About Wilson Associates - Specializing in interior architectural design, Wilson Associates was founded in 1971 and today employs more than 300 professionals in their headquarters in Dallas and offices in New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Shanghai and an associate office in Cochin, India. Blending experience, innovation and solid business principles, Wilson Associates sets the design standard at some of the world’s most well-known addresses. The firm creates interiors for world-class hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and high-end residential projects, offering a full range of design services. Wilson Associates is consistently ranked as one of the top two firms in the hospitality design industry. For information, call 214-521-6753 or visit www.wilsonassociates.com.

Keep Rowlett Beautiful awards scholarships

Posted August 27, 2011

Keep Rowlett Beautiful recently honored two Rowlett citizens with scholarships.  Allen Torske, a 2010 graduate of Rowlett High School, received a scholarship last year, and KRB decided to provide a $2,000 scholarship to help him continue his studies at Auburn University in Alabama. He is continuing his studies in aeronautics with the goal of a career in designing airplanes that use less metal and would require less fuel.

Torske is already a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Last year, he was a member of the Auburn marching band during the fall semester and the concert band in the spring semester.

Brendan Richardson graduated from Garland High School and was awarded a $2,000 scholarship from KRB. Richardson excelled in his high school architecture classes and is interested in pursuing a career in that field at Prairie View A&M.

Last year, he was awarded a scholarship to attend the Tulane University summer architecture program. His goal is to help rebuild in New Orleans, where he has family who were uprooted by Hurricane Katrina. He is committed to building strong homes that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient, while maintaining the tradition and character of the New Orleans neighborhoods, making him a perfect KRB candidate for a Paul Brunelle Memorial Scholarship.
 

I Am Second hosts back-to-school party at local water park

Posted August 27, 2011 --  Photo by David Alvey

More than 1,200 people turned out for the I Am Second back-to-school party at Garland’s Hawaiian Falls location on August 18. Guests donated school supplies to benefit local kids. The worship band from Stillwater Community Church in Rowlett performed a blend of rock and roll classics and contemporary Christian worship music on the stage at the wave pool.

“We were happy to partner with I Am Second and Pure Group to host this event,” said Hawaiian Falls Garland General Manager Clint Hill. “Using the I Am Second model, Rawd Jones of Pure Group led our Chaplains program at all four North Texas waterparks. After working hard all summer, we want our ambassadors to leave with more than a paycheck and a tan. We try to teach them about servant leadership and putting others first.”

I am Second, an initiative of e3 Partners Ministry headquartered in Plano, is a movement meant to inspire people to live for God and for others. The authentic stories on www.iamsecond.com provide insight into dealing with typical struggles of everyday living. These stories give hope to the lonely, help from destructive lifestyles, and inspiration to the unfulfilled.

Hawaiian Falls employs more than 850 people at waterparks in Garland, Mansfield, The Colony and Roanoke. The parks are open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. More info at http://www.hfalls.com.

Left-to-right: John Humphrey, director of communication, I Am Second; Rawd Jones, chaplain, Pure Group; Andrew McElyea, ministry partners manager, I Am Second; Clint Hill, general manager, Hawaiian Falls Garland

Local merchant helps shelter with fundraising

Posted August 27, 2011

New Beginning Center has created a new program that will allow local merchants to join the battle against domestic violence. Organization officials hope this new effort will help fill depleted coffers drained by a sagging economy and increased need for services.

“This program gives local merchants and people in our community the opportunity to support our organization while enjoying great food,” said Jennifer Morrison, executive director of New Beginning Center. The program “Merchants for a New Beginning,” calls for business owners to contribute a percentage of proceeds from sales by customers who identify themselves as supporters of the organization.

One of the first to sign on was Fuzzy’s Taco Shop at 2125 N. George Bush, Ste. 700 in Garland. “Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is very excited about this new partnership as well as having the opportunity to meet the Garland community,” John Bilbow, Fuzzy’s Operating Partner John Bilbow said.

The restaurant has designated all Tuesdays as New Beginning Day. Customers having breakfast, lunch or dinner will only need to tell the hostess that they support the New Beginning Center, and Fuzzy’s will make a donation to the center based on the amount of the check. Morrison is expecting other merchants to sign up for the program soon. Anyone interested in participating should call the center for information.

The New Beginning Center is committed to ending the plague of domestic violence in our community. In 2010,136 women in Texas were killed by an intimate partner or ex-partner. There were more than 193,000 reported family violence incidents in Texas alone. For more information, call 972-276-0423 or email jmorrison@newbeginningcenter.org.

Garland girls receive Girl Scout Gold Award

Posted August 27, 2011

Rebecca Drobinski produced Fit Fashionista: Beautiful Inside & Out, educating young girls on how to achieve a nutritious, fit body and being fashionable at all economic levels.  Rebecca’s event focused on raising the self-esteem, confidence, and character of girls from all economic backgrounds.  It also offered ideas on how to achieve and maintain a healthy body through diet and exercise, along with dressing the most flattering way for their body type.  Local experts participated in the areas of fitness, nutrition, skin care, cosmetics, and hair care.  Two fashion shows highlighted the event.

Rebecca is the daughter of Sally and Rich Drobinski.

Mariah Terry, left, and Sabrina Padilla, right, produced Rina and Riah’s Pet Extravaganza.  With a desire to raise the community’s awareness of domesticated animals, their joint event focused on educating the public on how to keep their pets healthy and how to get stray dogs and cats off the streets and into a home of their own. The girls sponsored a low-cost pet vaccination clinic with local pet experts providing pet-focused education and entertainment. 

Mariah is the daughter of Karen and Fred Terry.  Bernadette and Jerry Padilla are Sabrina’s parents.

The girls are participants of Troop 2339 and they are juniors at Garland High School.  Rebecca and Mariah are members of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Garland.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout can earn. A national award, with national standards, it represents a Girl Scout’s time, leadership, creativity, and effort contributed to making her community better.  Often, the leadership and organizational skills and sense of community and commitment that come from "Going for the Gold" set the foundation for a lifetime of active citizenship.

The award project is something that fulfills a need within a girl's community, whether local or global, and creates change. The project encompasses organizational, leadership, and networking skills.

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas:  Girl Scouts is a "girl-led" organization where girls develop leadership potential through activities that enable them to discover their values, skills, and the world around them; connect with others in a multicultural environment; and take action to make a difference in the world. Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas serves nearly 35,000 girls and 16,000 adults in 32 northeast Texas counties. 

For information on how to join, volunteer, or donate to the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas call 800-442-2260 or visit www.gsnetx.org or www.amazinggirl.com.

Kim Everett | August 20, 2011

Jo Ann Alston was 8 years old when she and her family, along with two goats whose milk was needed for a health condition of her father’s, came to Garland in 1943.  Her dad drove the truck, and her mother drove the family’s car from Okemah, Okla.  When they arrived, they stayed for six weeks with an aunt and uncle and three cousins who lived on Pleasant Valley Road.  Jo Ann’s grandmother was with them as well, which made for crowded conditions until her parents bought their home on the east side of Seventh Street between State and Austin Streets in downtown Garland. 

Marvin and Thetis Alston brought their three children to the area to give them better opportunities.  They wanted them to get good educations and have more career possibilities upon graduation.  Four years after moving into their Garland home, Jo Ann’s younger sister Dorothy was born in the front bedroom of the house, and the Alston’s raised all four children there.

Marvin decided to make a living in the retail furniture business after setting a cabinet outside one day and selling it to a passerby.  “There were times when mother would come home and ask where various pieces of furniture were and find out daddy had sold them,” Jo Ann said.  “He did a good business here.  He fed four kids and a wife.”

Nearby were a post office, a two-story boarding house, a two-story house where a lady had a flower shop and a vacant lot where the Future Farmers of America organization brought their livestock for shows and sales.

Some of the downtown businesses included a variety store called Nicholson’s, where Jo Ann worked as a teenager, dry good stores Cole & Davis and Cannon’s, the National Bank, and Jones Hardware.  There were grocery stores, furniture stores – Baker’s and Garland Furniture, a library, and movie theatres. 

“You could see a movie for a nickel or a dime,” she said.  “One of the theatres played all the westerns, and we’d go there on Saturday nights.  Back then, you could stay and watch the movie twice if you wanted.”

Also downtown were several car dealerships, Mitchell’s Lumber Yard, and numerous places to eat.  McKnight’s and Payne’s Drug Stores had soda fountains.  “At Payne’s there was a lady named Mary that cooked hamburgers,” Jo Ann said.  “I think she was nearly 90 years old when she quit working there.”

After school, kids gathered at The Sweet Shop on Main Street, across from where Dos Banderas Restaurant is currently located, to visit and have ice cream.  “All the larger chains started running places like this out of business,” she said.

A big difference in the downtown area is that the square was actually a square that you could drive all the way around.  “I wish they had not changed that,” Jo Ann said.

She attended elementary school on Ninth Street, but the building burned, and the students were moved to pre-fab buildings and church basements.  She graduated from Garland High School in 1953.

When Jo Ann’s fiancé, Bobby Hargrove, got called to active military service in 1953, he wanted to get married before he left.  “I was scared because I knew my daddy wouldn’t let me get married, so we ran off.  Bobby’s sister and her husband went to Durant, Okla. with us in March of 1953 to get married,” she said.  “After we got married, he dropped me off at the house like nothing had happened, and he had to leave for Missouri in seven days.  We had not told mother and daddy.  He left me here to do that chore by myself.”

“One day I got home from work at Nicholson’s, and my mom said, ‘Jo Ann do you know the meaning of this?’  I had an aunt up in Durant that was a nosey busybody and she had sent a newspaper clipping announcing my marriage,” Jo Ann said.  “Back then, the courthouse furnished the names of people who got married to the newspapers.  That’s how my mother and dad found out.”

On the night of high school graduation, she left to join her husband in Missouri.  When he later left for Korea, Jo Ann came home to stay with her parents and work at Varo. 

She and Bobby had five children, the first one born in 1955.  They lived in a house with two bedrooms and one bathroom.  “I don’t know how we did it.  Bob worked at DeSoto Paint and we saved and saved until we were able to buy five acres near Rowlett and built a house,” Jo Ann said.  All the kids, Brent, Lonnie, Richard, Glenda, and Jan attended Garland schools.  Glenda passed away in 1990.  Jo Ann sold the house and moved inside the city of Rowlett in 1992.

The old home place on Seventh Street still stands and now houses Alston’s Old Home Place Antiques.  Jo Ann, along with her siblings and with the help of her son Richard Hargrove, got the store going in the mid-1990s.  “I couldn’t have done this without Richard,” Jo Ann said.  Marvin Alston, Jo Ann’s brother, is co-owner in the house and also has antiques for sale at the store. 

Jo Ann had worked in the day care industry, at a doctor’s office, and as a pharmacy technician before opening the store.

She loves spending time in the house where she grew up.  She said that the memories are good.  “I’m happy here,” she said.  “I don’t care if I’m hobbling around here when I’m 100.  It’s fun to meet people.  And I still have people come in and tell me about buying furniture from my dad.”

Her second husband passed away in 2002, but she is still busy all the time.  She has grandchildren and great-grandchildren, which she keeps up with on Facebook.

She said that a lot has changed since her family came to Garland.  “We didn’t worry about locking the doors back then,” Jo Ann said.  “A loaf of bread maybe cost a quarter, and we could go out for a hamburger for a quarter.”

According to Jo Ann, kids are also different.  “Daddy believed in the belt, and we all turned out OK, so I don’t think there was anything wrong with it.  And we were grateful for what we had back then,” she said.

She is grateful for everything God has done for her and for the life she has now.  “I give God all the glory for allowing me to be able have this business and to enjoy having something that I love to do in my later years. God is good,” Jo Ann said.

Hawaiian Falls names scholarship winners

Posted August 20, 2011 -- Photo by David Alvey

Hawaiian Falls selected one employee from each of its four North Texas waterparks to receive a $1,000 college scholarship. The four ambassadors, as the employees are known within the company, were chosen from more than 60 applicants.
 
“These young people are truly the cream of the crop,” said Evan Barnett, Hawaiian Falls regional manager. “We looked at their community service, leadership, job performance and, attitude.  These young leaders are going to accomplish amazing things in their lives and we just wanted to give them a little help along their way.”
 
The winner from the Garland Hawaiian Falls location was Melanie Evans who works in Water Safety at the park. She is a resident of Lavon, and she attends the University of Texas at Dallas.  She is working toward a bachelors’ degree in business administration.

Matthew Barnard from the park in The Colony, Katrina Rojas from the Mansfield location, and Marissa Hall from the Roanoke location also received scholarships.

Hawaiian Falls also gave $100 cash scholarships to 20 runners-up and provides more than 850 seasonal jobs at waterparks in Garland, Mansfield, The Colony, and Roanoke. The parks are open through Labor Day.  Visit www.hfalls.com for more information.

Kim Everett | August 16, 2011 -- Photos by Edd Holden

State Representative Angie Chen Button (Dist. 112) was joined by a number of vendors, entertainers, and attendees as she hosted the third annual Senior Awareness Day Saturday, August 6 at the Richardson Civic Center.  Several Garland City Council members were also in attendance, along with State Representative Stephani Carter (Dist. 102).

The Dallas Area Agency on Aging was on hand to provide assistance on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and other benefits.  Representatives from insurance companies, vision care providers, in-home and outside care agencies, and more visited with attendees.  Senior advocacy and emergency preparedness information was available, and DART and AARP sent representatives as well.

Garland Senior Center employees were available to tell seniors about available activities, and the Friends of Olde Downtown Garland shared information about the historic downtown area.

Dancers, clowns, and tai chi students entertained the crowd, and Ms. Senior Garland, along with Ms. Senior America were also there.
 

Garland man wins $1,000

Posted August 14, 2011

Garland resident Alberto Saucedo was surprised with a $1,000 check on Thursday, August 11 at the Dunkin' 

Donuts on Preston Road in Dallas.  The prize was part of a promotion to introduce Dunkin' K-cup portion packs 

for single- serve Keurig coffee makers.  Alberto also won a Keurig and a year's worth of Dunkin, K-cup portion packs.  

About Dunkin' Donuts -- Founded in 1950, Dunkin' Donuts is America's favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods.  Dunkin' Donuts is a market leader in the regular/decaf coffee, iced coffee, hot flavored coffee, as
well as donut, bagel, and muffin categories.   It has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for five years running.

The company has more than 9,700 restaurants in 31 countries worldwide.  In 2010, Dunkin' Donuts' global system-wide sales were $6 billion. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin' Donuts is a subsidiary of Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.  

Photo:  Alberto Saucedo, far left, is with Shana Young and Kelley Gregorio from Dunkin' Donuts and Cuppy the 

Dunkin' Donuts coffee cup.  

Posted August 8, 2011 -- Photos by David Alvey

Hawaiian Falls hoped to help swimmers beat the record-breaking heat on Wednesday, August 3 by dumping more than 2,000 pounds of ice into the Waikiki Beach wave pool.

 

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Baylor Garland joins in Playhouse Palooza

Kim Everett | August 6, 2011

Team Garland Baylor did their part to help Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland by building a Victorian-style playhouse for HFHGG’s upcoming fundraiser.

The playhouses will be raffled off during the Playhouse Palooza event, which runs August 13-27.  They will be on display at Firewheel Town Center. 

The kick-off is August 13 from 11 a.m. -3 p.m. with activities including a bounce house, mini train rides, and free snow cones.  Maricela and Friends will perform, and the Firefighters Association plans to have a fire truck there as well.  There will be goody bags for the first 200 people who purchase raffle tickets.  Winners will be drawn August 27 at 8 p.m. 

Other playhouse sponsors include:  Baylor Medical Center at Garland; New Century Montessori Academy; Sunnyvale Garden Club; Garland Fire Fighters Association; Wilson Plywood and Door; Garland Citizen's Police Academy; First Baptist Church; General Dynamics; Richardson Timber.  Wylie Auto Towing, Inc. will transport the playhouses, and event sponsors are Mapei, Fire Wheel Town Center, Maricela and Friends, and Texas Entertainment Group.

Some of the other playhouse builders are Leadership Garland Class 30, Richland Collegiate High School, Garland Independent School District, and Belcan.

Photos:  1. Bob Duncan, Ron Sadler, Eva Hummel, Karen Schelfout, Michael Smith, and Dr. Jeffrey Kopita. 2. Elisa Lea and Eva Hummel.  3. Les Vandeventer.

Posted August 3, 2011

Artists’ Showplace gallery will feature an exhibition of works by painter Herb Reed and his photographer son, Steve Reed titled Reeds2, Lens & Brush.  They will each show separate original works as well as a few collaborative pieces. A free reception on Friday, August 12, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., is open to the public and includes wine, hors d'ouevres and live music from Jazz by Paul Utay.  The show opens with the reception on August 12 and closes Saturday, August 27.

Herb Reed, one of the owners of Artists’ Showplace, is a member and past president of the Southwestern Watercolor Society and is active in the Richardson Civic Art Association and Society of Watercolor Artists. After retiring in 1998 from corporate public relations and advertising, he started painting and studied with several noted instructors. He paints primarily landscapes using the medium of watercolor which he says is “illusive and constantly challenging…each painting has its own surprises and gifts.” Herb’s website is www.herbreedwatercolors.com.

Stephen Reed, Herb’s son, is a Garland resident who works as a photographer for the Dallas Morning News advertising department. In his free time, he focuses primarily on fine-art and real estate photography. He has spent the last 25 years shooting editorial and advertising in the newspaper industry. His photographs have been published in U.S. News and World Report and Luxury Homes, among others. His website is www.stephenreedphoto.com.

Artists’ Showplace is at 15615 Coit Road, Suite 230, in the southwest quadrant of Spanish Village at Coit and Arapaho. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artists’ Showplace also has workshops throughout the year given by internationally renowned artists and offers weekly art lessons in its fully equipped classrooms.

 

What:               Reeds2, Lens & Brush, an exhibition of watercolor paintings and photography

Who:                Father and son, Herb and Stephen Reed

Where:             Artists’ Showplace gallery, 15615 Coit Road, Suite 230

When:              August 12 - 27

Reception:       Friday, August 12, 6-9 p.m. - free to the public

Gallery

Hours:              Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Phone number:  972-233-1223.

                        www.theartistsshowplace.com

Lori Falk & Kim Everett | August 1, 2011 -- Photos by Lori Falk

Rebecca N. Drobinski, who is working toward her Girl Scouts Gold Award, presented “Fit Fashionista,” an event for tween and teen girls on Saturday, July 30.  Only six percent of Girl Scouts receive this award, which is the highest a Girl Scout can earn, and achieving this level often helps them earn college scholarships.

Rebecca is interested in fitness and fashion, so an event centered on these subjects was a perfect fit.  Subjects including nutrition, exercise, skin care, make-up, hair care, and accessories were covered during the event, and Rebecca and her friends presented two fashion shows.

The 16-year-old’s goal was to teach younger girls how to tie all aspects of fashion together and show that one does not have to spend a lot of money to be fashionable.  She also wanted to teach the girls that beauty begins on the inside with self-confidence, nutrition, diet, and exercise.  Rebecca’s idea is that girls can be beautiful based on their individuality.

The event was held at Garland’s Salvation Army location.  Clothes and some of the accessories were provided by the Rockwall Crossing TJ Maxx.  Event experts included KS Nutrition, Zeuss Fitness, Premier Jewelry, Stella and Dot, Mary Kay, and Professional Nutrition Therapists.

The make-up artist was Nancy Salcedo, and models were Calley, Natalie, Heran, Becka, Mariah, and Josey.  Rebecca directed and produced the event.

Clothing donations for Salvation Army were collected during the event as a way to give back to the community.

Posted July 30, 2011

Joseph J. and Reta Kay Richmond Myers of Mineola, formerly of Garland, will observe their 50th wedding anniversary August 12th.  The couple was married on August 12, 1961 at Hillcrest Baptist Church (now Park City Baptist Church) in Park City, Kansas.  They have three children, Kevin Mark, Dallas; Scott Allen, Mineola; and Janet Kay Myers Angell and her husband, Doug, of Minot, North Dakota.  They also have two grandchildren, Sarah and D. J. Angell, both of Minot, North Dakota.

Joseph was a retired dairy farmer, and when the family moved from Cassoday, Kansas, to Garland in 1977 he began doing carpentry work.  Reta worked for Texas Instruments and is also a retired Wood County employee.  She now works part-time for Dairy Queen of Mineola.

Friends are encouraged to send cards and letters to the couple at 147 County Road 2244, Mineola, Texas 75773.

Posted July 28, 2011

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland is receiving help from a variety of businesses and organizations with its Playhouse Palooza fundraiser.  Firefighters at Garland’s Station 7, Captain Jeff Henderson, Tom Grimes, Nate Johnson, Jimmy Edwards, and Tommy Howard are doing their part by building a fire station playhouse for the event.

The playhouses, which will be on display at Firewheel Town Center across from the AMC Theatre beginning August 13, will be raffled to help low income families in Garland.

 

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MUCH continues to help prevent homelessness

Posted July 26, 2011

Mount Hebron Urban and Community Housing has been serving Garland and surrounding areas for 10 years and has been funding housing for potential homeless families and individuals since 2005. MUCH, founded by Pastor Leonard O. Leach and Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church of Garland, located at 1233 State Highway 66, established itself as a vehicle to assist the homeless after Hurricane Katrina displaced thousands of individuals, many of whom ended up in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Area. MUCH set out to fill a void that was not completely being met by the state, national government, non-profit organizations, and charities.

To date, MUCH has assisted nearly 600 families, thousands of individuals, and has served more than 1,500 youth through a partnership with Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, its Summer Arts and Athletic Program, and its daycare and academy. Executive Director of MUCH, Rev. Aaron H. Gaddis said, “It is a privilege to serve the Garland community and surrounding areas through the prevention of homelessness. Through our partnerships with Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, the city of Garland and several partners, we are also able to provide utility assistance, before and after school childcare and summer activities for families with children, displaced teens, and dependent adults. Because of our partnerships we have MUCH, and to whom MUCH is given MUCH is required.”

The main goal for MUCH is to prevent homelessness. Future plans include creating housing opportunities for low to moderate income residents, partnering with organizations that support neighborhood growth and empowerment, and continue to conduct fundraising activities and events to financially support MUCH. The next fundraiser is during Unity Fest, September 2-3.

UNITY FEST is a free, two-day event, hosted by Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, which kicks off on Friday, September 2, with a free gospel jazz concert, featuring legendary jazz artist, Ramsey Lewis. Saturday activities include health screenings, a blood drive, a three-on-three basketball tournament, vendors, carnival, children’s activities, games, food, and talent showcases with singers, dancers, and comedians.

Sponsorship opportunities and vendor spaces are available. One hundred percent of the proceeds will benefit MUCH and are tax-deductible. For sponsorship information, contact Rev. Aaron Gaddis at 972-276-7283, or 214-392-5948. For vendor spaces, call Rev. Cedric Wheaton at 972-276-5218.

MUCH, a stand-alone non-profit 501(c)(3) program is funded through grants and personal donations.

Kim Everett | July 23, 2011

The students at Garland’s Blue Ivey School are already working to see that U.S. military men and women serving overseas will get lots of mail during the holiday season.

In past years, holiday cards donated by Barnes & Noble have been used for the students’ holiday art and decorating projects.  This year, however, the school’s Director, Donna Walker, had another idea.  The students are celebrating “Christmas in July” by writing personal messages in thousands of cards that will be sent to service members.

The students’ mission is to make sure that the soldiers know that they appreciate what they are doing.  Several of the kids talked about how they want the soldiers to know that the people at home are thinking of them.  Courtney, Hayden, and Hannah agree that sending the cards will let the soldiers know that people at home care.  Hannah’s dad served in Iraq and is now back at home.  “It was pretty scary for me,” she said.  “I was pretty sad.”

Evan, whose dad also served in Iraq, said that his dad was gone for a year.  “It was more lonely,” he said.  “I missed him a lot.”

The students know that they are fortunate to be in America where everyone enjoys freedom.  “People in other countries don’t all have a choice about what they do.  The soldiers are fighting for us so we’ll always have a choice about what we do,” Reagan said.

Ashlynn, Evan, and Layla said that since the soldiers do not get much mail, receiving the Christmas cards should make them happy.  Spencer, Caleb, and Emily appreciate the soldier’s dedication.  “Lives are being lost just for us,” Emily said.

Joseph, Gracey, Jackson, and Jenna are also grateful.  “They [the soldiers] are so far away from their families,” Gracey said.  “We just want to thank them,” Jenna added.

To raise money for postage to send the cards, the students made their own movie version of “Grease” and earned $65 from the sale of concessions at the screening.  They enjoyed making the movie and had lots of fun even though they were a little nervous about being in front of the camera.  In addition, they are making and selling jewelry.

Staff at the Blue Ivey School, Ms. Pearce, Mrs. Thomas, Ms. Fowler, and Ms. Dorsett, are enjoying helping their students with these projects and are happy to be doing something for the deployed soldiers.

Other summer projects at the school include a summer reading program and an art program in which the students are studying famous artists and painting renditions of their works.

Kim Everett | July 23, 2011

Dr. Gary Hoss, president of the Board of Directors for the New Beginning Center, came to Dallas from Atlanta, Georgia in 1979 for his internship and residency at Baylor Hospital.  Since setting up his Garland practice in 1982, he has served on various boards and committees at Garland Baylor Hospital and was chief of staff in the mid-1990s.  Also in the mid-90s, Hoss’ practice became part of the HealthTexas organization, and he also serves on that board.

Hoss joined New Beginning Center in their mission to end domestic violence four years ago and has been the board’s president since October 2010.  “I wanted to do something in the community…I knew it was definitely something worthwhile to become involved in,” he said.

He believes strongly in New Beginning Center’s education and prevention approach and would have welcomed programs like “Expect Respect” and “Find Your Edge” when his son and two daughters were in school.  “You are trying to find the ones in every class that have had problems like this and help them,” Hoss said.

He compared it to his job as a physician.  “It’s kind of like a pyramid.  We see thousands of people in primary care trying to prevent them from getting sick so that hundreds won’t end up in the hospital,” he said.  “Then at the top of the pyramid is the ICU where people are getting intensive care.  New Beginning Center is kind of like that.  Through our counseling and education, we are trying to keep people out of the shelter, which is the top of the pyramid, like our ICU.”

In the past, most people weren’t as open about domestic violence as they are now, and that is a step in the right direction.  “It’s always been a part of society, it’s just that we are more aware of it now,” Hoss said.  “My guess is that back in the 30s, 40s, 50s, it was a family thing, and people didn’t interfere with other people’s families.”

In addition, there are many who do not understand the source of the problem.  “Abuse comes from a power and control thing, but it also comes from a sense of insecurity on the abuser’s part.  They don’t feel secure that if they let their partner do their own thing that they will stay in the relationship,” Hoss said.  “And the bully in middle school could be the child of an abuser who sees the behavior at home.  Or they could be the victim of abuse themselves who can’t fight back against their abuser but can take it out on other kids at school.”

There are also many who, without an understanding of the problem, ask questions like “Why doesn’t she just leave?”  According to Hoss, victims stay for a variety of reasons.  One of the main ones is the children.  The abuser has convinced them that the children aren’t going with them if they leave.  Another reason is that they do not have the resources to care for the kids.  Many victims of domestic violence have limited information about the family’s financial situation and the abusive partner may have prevented the victim from becoming involved.

“When they walk out the door, they are literally leaving with nothing.  And most victims have been cut off from any outside support system, so there is no close friend or relative to help them,” Hoss said.  “Leaving is harder than it sounds.  It takes a strong person to do it.”

Many victims do not seek help because they are ashamed.  “That goes back to the idea of blaming themselves for the abuser’s behavior.  Typically, the abusive partner has minimized, denied, and blamed the abusive behavior on the victim.  Over time the victim begins to doubt themselves and eventually believes the minimization, denial, and blame as the abusive partner is quite convincing.  They see themselves somehow responsible for the abuser’s behavior,” Hoss said.  “And it’s difficult, too, because they still love their partner and remember the positive things about the relationship.”

He had high praise for the skill and dedication of the employees and volunteers at the center.  “They aren’t working here for the money, and Lord knows they aren’t paid enough,” he said.  “With the work ethic and skill sets they have, there are other places they could work and do better financially.”

During his term as president, he hopes to help the organization improve its financial footing and bring more public awareness to the problem of domestic violence and let people know that New Beginning Center can help.

Assistance from the organization can be obtained by both female and male victims of domestic abuse.  The first step is to let them know that help is available and where they can find it.

Kim Everett | July 17, 2011

Avijit Chakraborty, 39-year-old native of Calcutta, West Bengal, India, is a man on a dual purpose mission.  By bicycling around the world in 20 months, he hopes to bring attention to the effects of pollution on the environment as well as set a world record. 

He spent the night of Thursday, July 14 at Garland’s Gurdwara Sikh Temple where priests Kulwant Singh Tara, Kawalpal Singh, and Avinash Singh Tara welcomed him and made sure he had plenty of good food. 

Chakraborty started his journey in Calcutta in December 2009.  In the last 17 months he has covered 46 countries and ridden 49,000 kilometers, which calculates to more than 32,000 miles.  To reach his goal, he must cover 62 countries in 20 months.

He is encouraging people to reuse items whenever possible and to be more thoughtful about the effects of their actions on the environment. The bicyclist has been able to visit with children at more than 150 schools throughout the world and said that if he reaches only five of every 50 people he talks to, he will consider the mission a success.  “I was thinking since childhood about trying to do something about the increasing pollution problem,” Chakraborty said.

He has been in the United States for four and one-half months and has ridden across 24 states and into Canada.  He travels 85-95 miles per day at 10-12 miles per hour, and he rides from approximately 3:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. to avoid the worst part of the heat.

Chakraborty uses a global positioning system to plan his route and rides only on the back roads.  He carries a tent and sleeping bag, minimal lightweight clothing, and a tool kit for bicycle maintenance.  So far, he has replaced numerous tires, and he has replaced his bicycle chain six times. 

To be eligible for the world record, Chakraborty must ask the police department in each town he goes through to complete paperwork and sign logs for him.  Sometimes, the police departments provide a place for him to stay as well.  He is sometimes invited into a local citizen’s home for the night, and has also stayed at many Indian temples.  Other times, he has camped in his tent.

He participated in sports while in India, which has helped him prepare for the physical requirements of the journey.  While in college at Calcutta University, he was a 100 meter sprinter, and he has also participated in the Tour de France in 2002. 

He misses his wife, 8-year-old daughter, and mother who are in Calcutta, but they keep in touch by computer and cell phone.  “My wife and mother thought I was becoming crazy when I started talking about attempting to ride a bicycle around the world,” Chakraborty said.  “But I believe a man can do anything he sets out to do.” 

From Garland, he will go to Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Laredo, and then cross over into Mexico.

For more information, visit www.bbcbicyclearoundtheworld.com.

Posted July 17, 2011

Members of the Professional Football Players Mothers Association recently faced off against the National Basketball Association mothers for a flag football game, and Garland’s Peggy Jones, member of PFPMA, had a great time serving as an official cheerleader for the NFL moms. 

The NFL moms outscored the NBA moms 14-0 in the July 8 contest at Tustin High School in California.  Proceeds from the game and a gala held the next day in Newport Beach will benefit Talk about Curing Autism and at-risk youth in Orange Country through the Department of Education.

Posted July 16, 2011

The Educational Merit Foundation is a non-profit student exchange organization based in Garland, and "building bridges between cultures" has been their mission since 1991. They currently have 30 students from Germany, France, China and South Korea who need host families and host schools so they can come to America for the upcoming school year.  

Because of the economy, it becomes more difficult every year to find volunteer host families, and this year is no exception.  The group believes that American students benefit from meeting foreign students and would appreciate the community’s help.   

They need caring people, with or without children, who are willing to provide food, a bed, and a loving home for one or two semesters beginning in late August.  EMF high school students are between the ages of 15 and 18.  They have medical insurance and spending money for their personal expenses and expect to share their host family’s daily life including household responsibilities.

The students speak English, are well-screened, and are eager to experience life in America. Their stay here is sponsored and supervised by EMF.  Interested host families should contact EMF as soon as possible.  For more information, call Marie-Claude Dijoud at 1-800-467-8363 or visit www.emfusa.org.

Posted July 12, 2011

New Beginning Center will debut its newest video the weekend of July 16, at Springcreek Church, 2660 Beltline Road in Garland.   The video is part of the Give Five project, which has been specifically designed for faith communities.

Give Five is centered on a challenge to share your time, talent, and treasure with the non-profit community and is presented by Baylor Medical Center at Garland.  The video includes testimony from several survivors of domestic violence.  Keith Stewart, pastor of Springcreek Church is also featured.  "The church has a clear mandate to care for the vulnerable, and quite frankly, you'd be hard pressed to find a more vulnerable population than those who've been forced to flee domestic violence,” he said. “We know where God's heart is on this one. So to be with God, we must be with them."

In 2010, 136 women in Texas were killed by an intimate partner or ex-partner. There were more than 193,000 reported family violence incidents in Texas alone, with many of those in our own backyard.  84 percent of Texans believe they can make a difference in the efforts to end domestic violence.  Together we can save lives and prevent domestic violence in our own community. 

New Beginning Center extends many thanks to the survivors who courageously shared their stories, to Pastor Keith Stewart for his unending support of the mission of New Beginning Center, to Rusty Hann who directed and produced the video, and to Baylor Medical Center at Garland, who continues to seek ways to reach out to support and improve our community.

Posted July 11, 2011

In today’s economic times it is more important than ever that Friends of the Rowlett Library help deserving citizens become librarians. Elizabeth Richardson, a graduate student at Texas Woman’s University, was recently awarded the twelfth annual scholarship in as many years.

This year’s $2,000 scholarship will help cover costs for tuition and books toward a master’s degree in information and library science. Applicants must live or work in Rowlett. For more information about next year’s scholarship, call 972-475-1058.

For information about Friends of the Rowlett Library, visit the city of Rowlett website, www.rowlett.com -- Departments/Library/Friends of the Library or http://www.rowlett.com/index.aspx?nid=181

Posted July 10, 2011

U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-05), a champion for Texas families, recently met with members of the Perkins family before their tour of the U.S. Capitol building.

Ms. Mattie Perkins of Garland, Scott, Sharon, Cassidy, Travis, Jonny, Ken and Fran Perkins of Canton, Steven Mills of East Dallas, Kevin Binion of Sachse and Nancy, Allison and Holly Hilderbrandt visiting from Georgia, were in Washington, DC for a family vacation.

During the meeting, they discussed their trip to DC and the world famous Canton Trade Days, a favorite activity of the Congressman and his family.

Kim Everett | July 3, 2011

Childhood neglect, abuse, and heartbreak, gave Naaman Forest High School teacher, Lutitia Featherston, the understanding and insight to help kids who are experiencing all kinds of problems, and she is dedicated to using her experience to do just that.

Featherston’s parents grew up in Buckner Children’s Home with no training and no example of how to parent.  Her family – aunts, uncles, and cousins – are actually the “adopted” friends of her parents from the children’s home.

Her father, a Vietnam veteran who sustained a back injury while in the service, was an addict; and her mother was abusive.  Even though her dad was almost always under the influence of pain pills and alcohol, he was the closest thing to a safe harbor that Featherston had as a child.     

When Featherston was nine-years-old, her dad went to jail for DWIs, and she and her mom went to live at an aunt’s house.  They moved back into the house after her father was released from jail and her parents got a divorce.  Her mother lost her job, and they had to move again.  This time, they moved into an aunt’s home where Featherston had to sleep on a mattress on the floor in her cousin’s room.  The home was filled with fighting and chaos and always in need of repair. Revisiting her experiences and touching base with other family members as an adult, Featherston realizes and relives another aspect to her childhood, inappropriate behavior, including sexual molestation.

She watched as her father drowned in his addiction.  “It was hard to see him go through that, knowing that he was slipping away more and more. He was a good man that loved me and was my only encouragement. His choosing his addiction over his family, however, tore us, tore me apart.” Featherston said.  His unexpected death when she was 13-years-old was too much for the young teen to handle.

Her mom became more abusive as time passed.   “She was like a monster.  There was always hate in her eyes,” Featherston said.  Looking back, she sees that her mom might have had multiple personality disorder or, at the least some illness that could explain her actions.  Being hit, knocked down, and dragged by her hair was commonplace in her home. 

Aside from the physical abuse, her mother found other ways to make Featherston feel worthless.  She marked the towels that Featherston was allowed to use; she wouldn’t give her toilet tissue when it ran out in the bathroom that she used; and she wouldn’t buy her even the most basic necessities. 

Featherston, her mom, her two sisters and her mom’s boyfriend lived in Mesquite when she started middle school.  She had lived primarily in a black and Hispanic neighborhood in Pleasant Grove, and had taken on that culture.  When they moved to Mesquite, she didn’t fit in and everyone at school noticed. This made her a victim of bullying throughout middle school.

She started working at the age of 13.  Featherston’s mother had secretly applied for and was receiving social security because of her father’s death.  She ended up having to file a complaint against her mother to get the checks, which were supposed to be for surviving children, changed to her name. Featherston soon started down a road of self-destruction, spending time around older kids, including guys that had their own place.  “They were not good guys, but I didn’t care at the time. I just wanted a place to stay to get away from my mother’s home,” she said. 

Even though she was a good student and on the advanced honors program, she quit going to school during her senior year.  She was staying out all night, still hanging out with the wrong people.  Fortunately, her school counselor, Marry Warmbrought, arranged for her to return and take the classes she needed to graduate, which she did.  “I know you are smarter than this and can do it,” the counselor said. She graduated, and a month later, found out she was pregnant.

After soon figuring out that she would be going through this alone, she began exploring her options. A lady at an adoption agency explained to her that she had choices.  She told Featherston that she could go to college and make a life for herself and her baby. Her decision was then made and it was time for her to make changes and find ways to create a life for herself and her daughter. 

Featherston applied for food stamps and other assistance programs and started the college financial aid application process.  Through sheer determination, she got the assistance and enrolled.  She moved out of her mother’s house and into a low-cost apartment when her baby girl Deja was 8-months-old.  The complex was crime-ridden, and maintenance was non-existent, but it was what she could afford. 

She went to school full-time at Eastfield College, then DeVry, and then at Texas A&M-Commerce. She always worked while in school and received government help with child care expenses. 

There were never-ending financial aid problems and things for her to fight for.  “It felt like a big cloud over me all the time,” Featherston said.  “There were times when I would come home, put my daughter in her car seat in the bathroom with me, and sit in the shower and cry,” she said.

While still in school at A&M Commerce, Featherston attended a Garland Independent School District job fair in 2004 and got advice on what classes she needed from Dr. Phil Gilbreath, director of career and technology for GISD.  It wasn’t long before she finished the classes, got her master’s degree, and got a job with GISD through Dr. Gilbreath.  “I couldn’t believe it,” she said.  “I now can be done with Section 8 housing, and food stamps, and Medicaid.”  She would be able to take care of her daughter, get a reliable car, and pay her own rent. 

Featherston has been at NFHS for five years.  She bought a home two years after starting her teaching career and has always provided a healthy environment for her daughter.  She calls her first year at NFHS a Godsend.  “I knew it was my calling,” she said.  “There were kids coming in and talking to me about things I understood because I’d been through them. I started to see why I had to go through what I went through. It was all for something completely beyond just me.”

There were students with all kinds of problems, and she was able to empathize and help them.  She said that the students knew that she understood and they knew that she could help them because she had been there and gotten through it.  Because she had never had anyone to talk to that had been through what she went through as a child, she was determined to provide that for her students.

Featherston isn’t bitter about her past.  She took psychology classes that have helped her understand herself, along with child development classes to learn how to raise her daughter properly.  “There were dark parts of me that I didn’t know if I could break free of.  I hated life,” she said.  “I was afraid I’d never be the mother that my daughter needed.” 

“It took me to about the age of 26 to find my strengths, to be able to stand up and talk to other people and look them in the face and learn how to be confident,” she said.  “But since my first year of teaching, it has been like this great snowball effect of miracles.”

Even when she couldn’t afford it, she started to do everything she could to help other people.  She has helped many students through a variety of troubles and continues to seek out ways to assist others by organizing fundraisers and helping students get through the college financial aid application process.  She has helped homeless kids find places to stay and helped kids get social security cards and drivers’ licenses and bank accounts, etc.  She has helped them get accepted into universities as well.

Featherston is also in charge of the Rachel’s Challenge program at NFHS, a national organization that promotes being of service to others, anti-bullying, and a better overall school environment. “This program is perfect for me.” Featherston said. “Rachel Scott mentions changing the world in her diaries and with teaching, this program and all of the amazing people and students that I am able to combine efforts with, I get the opportunity to do just that…This program has not only touched and greatly affected the students’ lives at my school, it has also provided me, an adult over 30, a huge sense of belonging.”

“Every once in a while I get the little depression thing going on in my head for a minute, because I still have difficulties that I face,” she said.  “But it’s like I tell my students, ‘Sometimes you just have to tell yourself to shut up.  Get over it.’  The main thing throughout is God.  I didn’t used to see Him in my life.  Now I do, every day.”

Her daughter, Deja, is now a sophomore in high school, and Featherston has always provided a different kind of life for her.  In addition, she is doing what she loves most, teaching and helping others.  “The last five years of my life have more than made up for the 29 years before that,” she said.

Kim Everett | June 27, 2011

The New Beginning Center Resale Store, which recently relocated to 120 W. Kingsley in Garland, celebrated its grand re-opening Friday, June 25 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and two for one sale.

Mayor Ronald Jones and Jennifer Morrison the agency’s executive director cut the ribbon, which was held by a DeAnne Driver, New Beginning Center board member and Colleen Jamieson, the center’s finance director.  Paul Mayer, CEO of Garland’s Chamber of Commerce, and several of the agency’s employees and supporters, including Theresa LoCrasto from the office of State Representative Joe Driver and Annette Ratliff from State Senator John Carona’s, office were also in attendance.  Other agency board members on hand for the ceremony included Cathy Clopton and Dr. Hamp Holcomb.

The building that now houses the resale store is a city-owned facility that was formerly the Ridgewood Branch Library.  “There couldn’t have been a better choice for someone to use this building,” Mayor Ronald Jones said.  “New Beginning Center provides a great service to the community, and I’m so happy that the City Council approved this.”

The New Beginning Center Resale Store benefits families affected by domestic violence in a couple of different ways.  Clients of New Beginning Center who need items receive vouchers for the shop so that they can go and get what they need at no cost; and monies raised from merchandise sales to the public go back into the agency to help support their various services.

In addition, the shop provides community members an opportunity to support victims of domestic violence by donating items.  The resale shop accepts gently used men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry, housewares, toys, books, furniture, and more.

The store, which is well-lit and comfortable, was skillfully laid out by Kristi Gleaves, Maria Flores, and Emma Felker with the help of additional employees and volunteers.

Hours of operation are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday, and the two for one sale will continue through July 2.

The agency’s executive director is grateful to everyone who worked so hard to get the resale store moved and re-opened as well as the city of Garland for its assistance.  “I want to thank the city for their willingness to partner with us on this venture,” Morrison said. 

She is also proud that the store helps many people in a variety of ways.  “The resale store is not only a benefit to the community, but it also benefits the clients that we serve on a daily basis,” she said.  “Many of our clients come to the shelter with nothing except for what they are wearing, and they are able to come here and get what they need at no cost to them.” 

According to Morrison, the prices are less than those at consignment stores, and shoppers can often find name brand accessories and clothing at deeply discounted prices.  “There are very good deals here,” she said.  Everything is priced to be sold.”

Kim Everett | June 25, 2011

In the last eight seasons, Bike and Build has contributed more than $2.7 million to fund housing projects in the United States.  The members have spent more than 80,000 hours building and ridden more than five million miles.

Bike and Build has engaged more than 1,250 young adults in spreading the word about America’s affordable housing crisis; and recently, some of them rode through Garland and helped Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland with the renovation of an existing home.

The group’s mission and vision statements reflect their desire to help see that all Americans have access to decent housing and to provide an opportunity for young adults to serve others:

Vision Statement:  Bike & Build envisions future generations that are committed to a lifetime of civic engagement and who inspire individuals and communities to create fair, decent housing for all Americans.

Mission Statement:  Through service-oriented cycling trips, Bike & Build benefits affordable housing and empowers young adults for a lifetime of service and civic engagement.

The media attention garnered by the riders while on their organized cross-country bicycle trips helps to shine a light on the affordable housing cause.  In addition, the help that the riders provide to local housing organizations is invaluable.

While in Garland, the group also hosted a free bicycle safety clinic for the kids at the YMCA.  Learn more about Bike and Build at www.bikeandbuild.org.

Kim Everett | June 22, 2011

Jackie Feagin, Garland resident since 1950, is celebrating 50 years in business in Garland this year.  He opened his automotive sales business, Feagin Motor Company in 1961, and for the last 47 years, the business has been located in the same spot on Forest Lane.

Jackie grew up in Copeville and attended school in Farmersville.  He was on the Farmersville High School football team and played against Garland High School in 1948, the first year that Homer Johnson, current GISD Athletic Director, was a GHS coach.  He graduated in 1950, which is when his family moved to Garland. 

He attended East Texas State University, which is now known as Texas A&M Commerce.  His family was poor, and he was the first one to go to college.  “We didn’t have indoor plumbing,” Jackie said.  “We didn’t have a television until I was a senior, and I didn’t have a car until I was a junior in college.” 

After college graduation in 1954, Jackie thought he had two years before he would be called to active service by the U.S. Air Force, but, it was only two months.  He had fallen in love with Joyce Herring, and they decided to get married the day before he had to leave for Malden, Missouri, where he would be stationed.  Joyce’s mother had a cake baked, brought in a preacher, and they were married on August 22.  The newlyweds left for Missouri in a new Chevrolet - without air-conditioning – the next day.

Joyce lived in Garland from the age of five, except for one year when her family moved to Mineola.  She graduated from GHS then attended the Metropolitan School of Business.  She could type 80 words per minute and take shorthand but was unable to find a job in the small town of Malden.  Joyce secretly picked cotton in Malden so that she could buy Jackie a Christmas gift the first year they were married.  The couple spent six months in Missouri and was then transferred to Enid, Oklahoma where they also spent six months.

Their first son, Larry, was born in January 1956.  At that time, they were stationed at Carswell Air Force Base.  Instead of a regular hospital, Joyce was in a barracks-type building where the conditions were less than perfect.  She was in a long room with rows of beds, and every day, the patients had to change the linens on their own beds.

Jackie flew B-36 bombers in the Air Force, but his service dates fell between the Korean and Viet Nam Wars, so fortunately, he did not see combat.  The Feagins were away from Garland for three years, and when they returned in 1957, they bought their first home for $10,000.  They moved to their current home in the South Garland area in 1959.

Upon their return, Jackie worked for Joyce’s father, H.F. Herring, who was in the car business.  He worked for him from 1957 to 1961 when he started his own business. 

The couple had three more sons, twins Garry and Jerry, and Bruce after returning to Garland.  In the late 1980s Jackie became interested in city politics and began serving on boards and commissions.  He was on the Planning Commission, Housing Standards Board, and Board of Adjustments, to name a few. 

He also spent three terms as City Council representative for District 5.  Jackie is proud of the fact that his name appears on 22 plaques as part of the council that was in office when buildings/facilities such as libraries, the Hinton Landfill, and the Plaza Theatre were constructed/revitalized.   He didn't miss a single meeting or work session while he was on council.  He also served on the Texas Municipal League Region 13 for three years and was president of that organization for two years. In addition, he worked with the Garland Chamber of Commerce and was named Chamber Ambassador of the Year in 2004.

After the kids were raised, Joyce had booths at a couple of flea markets and owned a blue jean shop.  She tried a career in real estate, but didn’t like it.  She went to work at a drapery company and soon decided to start her own business.  She made and installed drapes for the next 10 years.

Garland has grown and changed a lot since the couple first settled here. It was a closer-knit community back then, and everyone knew each other.  They’ve seen changes in the South Garland area as well.  Stores have closed, and there are lots of empty buildings.  They would like to see more businesses open up in the area, but Joyce believes that the city’s rules and regulations are too strict and keep businesses from wanting to locate here.  “Right now their restrictions are too harsh, and nobody wants to come to Garland,” Joyce said.  

Jackie has had bypass surgery and a stroke, yet he still continues to go to work every day, even though his son Jerry is running the business.  “My wife said she didn’t want me to retire.  She doesn’t want me here with her all the time,” he joked.

He feels that the success of the business can be attributed to the personal attention that the customers receive.  “Everybody likes to feel important,” Jackie said.  “I’ve always enjoyed talking to the customers, and I remember them all.”  He also said that they stand behind the cars they sell, and customers appreciate that.  They do the financing, and they try to help people when they can’t make their payments.  “Everybody gets in trouble sometimes,” he said.

Jackie and Joyce renewed their wedding vows on their 50^th anniversary with a ceremony officiated by Ronald Jones (before he was mayor).  This year, they will celebrate their 57^th anniversary.

The best thing that has happened to me,” Jackie said, “is my wife and four kids and eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, with one on the way.”

Kim Everett | June 16, 2011

Faith Artists was founded in 2009 as an opportunity for artists who wanted to produce faith-based, scripture-inspired art and express their faith.  The founder, Kendra Walden, is also the Dallas Director for Masterpiece Christian Fine Arts Foundation as well as a founding Guild member for the Biblical Arts Museum.  An accomplished artist herself, Walden has also served as an agent to numerous artists.

The organization has had art shows in Arlington, in Dallas at Wilshsire Baptist Church, as well as at Highland Park Presbyterian.  They hope to reach out to more secular groups through their current exhibit at the Granville Arts Center and upcoming July/August show at The Point Gallery @ C C Young in Dallas.

According to Walden, sharing the Word through art is effective because most people are visual learners.  “You remember perhaps seven percent of what you hear, but  75 percent of everything you see…This is an alternative, art-based expression of the scriptures that we hope will inspire others,” she said.

Also important to Walden is the opportunity to inform existing believers of the role churches had in the past of commissioning art and that the church was the driving force behind art creation for centuries.  “The church let the art market go about 300 years ago, but there has been a real surge for churches to reconnect to those roots,” she said.  “Currently we are seeing churches use art as an outreach to the community and within the church body.”

The focus of the art in this exhibit, called the Truth and Hope Collection, is worship, but it speaks to people in different ways.  Faith Artists want people to have beautiful pieces of art in their homes and offices and churches that speak to them with a visual message about worship.

The featured artists vary in experience level and style.  All are very talented and have important messages to share.

Kendra Walden, who lives in Garland, has always had a flair for interior design, but until recently, she created art only for herself.  Her work is abstract in style and carries a meaningful message.  She includes lots of color and texture and movement in her pieces.

Mark Walden, also a Garland resident, is the only photographer in the group.  He works in a wide variety of styles and specializes in nature, expressionistic photo art, and commercial projects.  His pieces are available as wall art as well as greeting cards.

Debbie Chiecchi Jackson, who has created a series called The Pathway, The Promises, and The Perseverance, often incorporates scriptures into her work.  Until 2008, when she decided to pursue a full-time career in art, Jackson was in corporate lending.

Peg Rosenlund has been painting approximately 40 years and has recently begun to experiment with mixed media, which has, according to her website, “extended her works of art into another dimension.”  Rosenlund is a registered architect and well known in the Dallas community. 

Jim Hutchinson is the Director of the Art Department at Dallas Baptist University.  He is a highly skilled illustrator, and his art can be found in numerous textbooks, calendars, and greeting cards.  Hutchinson served as an illustrator for A Beka Book, whose publications are used in many private Christian schools.

Tempy Berg Gilbert is an art history professor at Dallas Baptist University and a mom who enjoys “painting her world.”  She creates pieces that her clients often purchase for their children’s nurseries.  According to her website, “the act of creating has always been a powerful force in her life.”    

Barbara Mason’s art is diversified and includes a large volume of greeting cards.  Watercolor is her passion, but she also creates using pastels and clay.  According to her website, Mason hopes to convey an experience, a story, or an emotion through her art. 

Dawn Waters Baker, a Garland resident, is best known for her sunsets and skyscapes.  According to her website, “she tries to touch on the mystery of God by using the symbols of trees and skies.”  She was honored by being commissioned to create a series for the Dallas Theological Seminary. 

Tom Banker does color pencil and acrylic pieces.   His piece called “The Dance of Eve” recently won a first place ribbon in the Southwest Dallas Arts Festival.  Banker was raised as a Wycliffe missionary in Viet Nam.  He is a professionally trained illustrator and uses this skill in his job as a space planner.

Camille Riggs is an illustrative artist.  She has a series of pieces that she created after being miraculously cured from a debilitating disease.  When she found Faith Artists, she knew that it was a group with which she belonged.  She also does a cowboy line of art, greeting cards, and calendars. 

Lewe Feagins is one of the newer members of the group.  He has a gift for depicting what happens when we are too much “of the world.”  Feagins started drawing when he was just 8-years-old, and he attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. 

Christian Rodgers is from southwest Colorado, and she drove 750 miles one way to get her art in this show.  She has done several depictions of events in the Book of Revelations and said that she has looked for a group like this for a long time.

Cindy Norris’ pieces represent her journey in faith and include lots of vibrant colors.  Her painting called “Abundance” has been featured on the cover of an edition of the Highland Park Presbyterian Magazine.  She taught art in the public school system before deciding to pursue a full-time career as an artist. 

Come and experience this delightful exhibit through July 5 in the gallery at the Granville Arts Center.  Viewing hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and during all performances.  Visit www.faithartists.com for more information.

Posted June 5, 2011 -- Photos by Edd Holden

The Achievement Center of Texas held its First Annual ACTion Walk on Saturday, May 21 at Garland’s Holford Park.  Rascal the Raccoon, the mascot of the Dallas Vigilantes arena football team, delighted the attendees with his antics and served as the official starter for the walk at 9 a.m.  His brother, the D.J., energized the crowd with music.  Torrential rains the evening before made for cool temperatures and perfect walking conditions on the loop trail around the park.   

Each of the 64 ACTion Walkers chose between 1.5k, 3k or 5k walks. Proceeds from the ACTion Walk will benefit the students of the Achievement Center of Texas, a training center for children and adults with disabilities.  For more information on ACT and its programs, visit www.achievementcenteroftexas.org.

ACT is grateful to Pat Nichols, ACTion Walk chairperson, for her tireless efforts.  ACT is also indebted to the sponsors that made the event a success:  Agave Azul, TSI, Kroger, Panera Bread, the Green Hornets, Team Jeff, Matthew’s Raiders, Roger’s Rock Stars, Pilot International, Pan American Express Inc., Dallas Vigilantes Arena Football, C&R Trailer Repair Inc., and Accent Blinds & Shutters.

Posted June 4, 2011

Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-05) today announced the winners of the Annual Congressional Art Competition.  Daniel Munoz-Vidal, a resident of Lakewood and senior at Booker T. Washington High School, is the grand prize winner for the Fifth District. Sarah Hensley, a resident of Ben Wheeler and senior at Martins Mill High School, was first runner up. Madeline Shiell, a resident of Garland and senior at Booker T. Washington High School, was second runner up and Justin Hall, a Kaufman resident and senior at Kaufman High School, was third runner up.

“The 2011 Congressional Art Competition had many great entries from extremely talented young artists, and I congratulate Daniel Munoz-Vidal for his winning effort,” said Hensarling.  “I also applaud Sarah Hensley, Madeline Shiell and Justin Hall for their work.  The Congressional Art Competition is a unique opportunity for students to showcase their tremendous talents and receive proper recognition for their work.” 

“Each of the young artists who entered this year’s competition should be extremely proud of their work. I am pleased to represent a district with such talented young people.”

Daniel Munoz-Vidal was very excited to receive the top price for his pencil drawing entitled “Chairs.” “This is a great honor for me to have won the Congressional Art Competition for 2011 for the 5th District. I have worked countless hours and have devoted so much to my work, and for this piece of art to have been noticed, from a student who takes pride in his work is really a great honor,” said Munoz-Vidal. “I cannot emphasize how important and how grateful I am to have received this award.”

As the grand prize winner, Munoz-Vidal will travel to Washington, DC in June to attend a special unveiling ceremony for the exhibition in a corridor of the U.S. Capitol and meet with Congressman Hensarling. Each of the runners up will receive official letters of recognition.

Posted June 5, 2011

Due to the efforts of local senior citizens, Ann Meazle and June Crossland, Johnny Rockit, a popular Elvis impersonator, packs the house every month at Mexicali Restaurant.  These ladies were crushed when the Main Street Bar & Grill closed in 2007 because it had been the venue for Rockit’s act.  They did not have transportation to travel to other places where he performed. 

Ann & June approached Joshua Morales, owner of Mexicali, about the possibility of having a Johnny Rockit show at his Garland restaurant.  They went a little farther by contacting John Ehrenberger, aka Johnny Rockit.  They were relentless -- they wanted their local show and initiated a meeting between Morales and Ehrenberger in May 2008.

Due to the negotiating skills of these two seniors, the rest is history.  Johnny Rockit now performs monthly to a full house with standing room only at Mexicali on Beltline at Garland Rd. 

Posted May 29, 2011

New Beginning Center Resale Store reopened for business in its new location at 120 W. Kingsley in Garland on May 21. The resale shop is a neighborhood resale store benefiting families affected by domestic violence. This unique shop was previously located on Buckingham Road.  Hours are 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and features gently used men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, furniture, house wares, toys, and many other items. 

“The resale shop is a unique combination of assistance to victims of domestic violence and community outreach. Clients who need items are able to receive a voucher to get what they need at no cost to them,” the agency’s Executive Director Jennifer Morrison said.  “Community members are able to donate their gently used items to support the clients served by New Beginning Center Resale Store.”

By donating items and shopping at the store, you can help survivors of domestic violence and their children begin to rebuild their lives, free from violence. Additionally community members are invited to shop in store as all the proceeds go back to the agency to support the services available to victims of domestic violence.

The new store on Kingsley would not be possible without the support of the city of Garland. New Beginning Center, in partnership with the city, have come together to secure this service for victims of domestic violence served by the agency as well as providing an option for low cost merchandise to the entire community.

 “Please join us Saturday, May 21, to celebrate our new location and perhaps find a bargain or two,” Morrison said.

Posted May 28, 2011

Vikki Yeatts, MSN, RN, public health administrator for the city of Garland Health Department, received the Garland Independent School District Council of PTA’s Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award at the Annual Spring Luncheon on Friday, May 20.  The event was held at the Special Events Center and was attended by school district personnel, principals, PTA members, and Yeatts’ family. 

Since 1909 the Texas PTA has made the Honorary Texas Life Membership one of the highest honors that may be presented to individuals for outstanding service to children and youth. The recipient does not have to be a PTA member nor must the service for which the honor has been bestowed be connected with the PTA. The only requirement for receiving the award is that the recipient is making or has made a significant contribution to the well-being of children and youth. 

Vikki Yeatts has been successful through the years in establishing an effective partnership with the GISD, resulting in improved health for thousands of Garland’s young people.  The Clinical Services Division of the Garland Health Department, under Yeatts’ leadership, conducts various back-to-school immunization clinics at GISD schools throughout the year, along with the annual flu vaccines which are available to administrators, staff, students, and families in the fall.  She also participates in school district health fairs, performs tuberculosis screening for Health Occupations clinical rotation students, oversees Texas Health Steps exams for many local students, and provides health education to GISD families.

Low cost immunizations are also available year round for all ages at the Clinical Services location at 206 Carver Drive, Garland.  As Garland’s public health administrator, Yeatts directs the operation of the public health clinic, which serves over 20,000 patients per year.  At the clinic location in 2010, approximately 30,549 doses of vaccines were administered to area residents and their families.

Yeatts has served in her current position with the city for 15 years.  Prior to her present occupation, she was a GISD nurse for nine years and worked as a Career & Technology Health Occupations teacher at Lakeview Centennial High School.  She serves on the GISD Career and Technology Health Sciences Advisory Board and is the clinical chairperson for the Public Health Advisory Committee for Dallas County.  She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Woman’s University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Loyola University.

She is married to Bob Yeatts and has four adult children.  Besides nursing, Vikki also sings with the Dallas Symphony Chorus and just recently returned from a concert with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra/Chorus at Carnegie Hall in New York.  She also participates in the music ministry program at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Garland. 

Photos:

Yeatts and her family after the luncheon.

Yeatts with GISD staff at Council of PTA’s Annual Spring Luncheon.

Posted May 28, 2011

Freedom is not free. It comes at incredible cost. Throughout our nation’s history, whenever our country has been attacked, or when the enemies of freedom have threatened peace in our world, American men and women in uniform, from all backgrounds and all walks of life have answered the call to defend us.

Over the past 234 years, millions of brave Americans have gone into harm’s way so that we could enjoy the blessings of peace and prosperity. Too often, many of us take these freedoms for granted—freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to assemble, and the freedom to live our lives the way we choose. My friend and colleague, Congressman Sam Johnson, himself a decorated veteran, often talks about the short message he found scratched on the wall of his prison cell, in Vietnam where he was held as a P.O.W.:  “Freedom has a taste to those who fight, and almost die, that the protected will never know.”

From the American Revolution to Operation Iraqi Freedom, many of America’s best and brightest, many of whom we know as friends or family, have paid the price of our freedom with their lives. Called on by their country, acting out of patriotism and in the most dangerous of circumstances, soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines have demonstrated extraordinary courage in defending our country and the principles of democracy that we hold dear. Many Americans left behind their friends, their hopes and dreams, and their families, some never to return to them or to their country ever again. We must also remember the families of the fallen who are left to carry on after—President Lincoln once said—“having laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.”

As President Calvin Coolidge once said, “A nation which forgets its defenders will itself soon be forgotten.” We are all committed to making sure we never forget. So, whether you plan to attend a ceremony in your town or just gather together with friends and family—I urge you to take a moment and remember our defenders who paid the ultimate sacrifice on this Memorial Day.

My thoughts are on those heroes who have paid that ultimate sacrifice for their country and my prayers of comfort continue to be with their families. It is because of their bravery and sacrifice that my seven-year-old son and nine-year-old daughter will sleep in a safer America tonight.

As Ronald Reagan said, “We will always remember. We will always be proud. We will always be prepared, so that we may always be free.”

Kim Everett | May 25, 2011 -- Photo by Andrea Walthall

Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a federal holiday honoring United States military members who lost their lives while serving their country.  It started as a day of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, and after World War I, it was extended to honor Americans who have died in all wars. 

General John Logan officially proclaimed Memorial Day on May 5, 1868, and New York was the first state to recognize the holiday.  It was recognized by all of the northern states by 1890, but the southern states refused to acknowledge it until it was changed from honoring Civil War soldiers only to Americans who died in any war.  Before that, the southern states had a separate day to recognize their fallen Civil War soldiers.

The traditional date of Memorial Day, May 30, was changed in 1968 when Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill which moved it to the last Monday in May.  In the years since, several military organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, have spoken out against the change.  These groups believe that changing the date to create a three-day weekend undermines the meaning of the holiday and adds to the public’s lack of interest in its meaning.

Americans traditionally observe the holiday, which will be Monday, May 30 this year, by visiting cemeteries and memorials to place flowers and flags on the graves of soldiers, and attending parades.  A concert is held on the lawn of the United States Capitol where attendees enjoy musical performances and respect is paid to military members who have died in war.

The Indianapolis 500 has been held on Memorial Day weekend since 1911, and the Coca-Cola 600 stock car race has been held the same weekend since 1961.

A resolution was passed in December 2000 asking Americans to ‘voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a moment of remembrance and respect’ at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.  The reason for the resolution was to remind Americans of the true meaning of the day.

“We come, not to mourn dead soldiers, but to praise them.”  Francis A. Walker

“The dead soldier’s silence sings our national anthem.”  Aaron Kilbourn

Photo by Andrea Walthall -- 214.282.4340 -- www.andreawalthall.com 

Posted May 25, 2011

At the recent Catholic Foundation Spring Grant Ceremony, the foundation presented more than $897,000 in grants to 17 religious, educational, and charitable organizations.  Garland’s Good Shepherd Catholic School received $100,000 of the grant funds, which will be used to replace the roof on the school and allow for updated facilities and a safe environment for students, teachers and visitors.

Grants were also distributed to 16 other Dallas-area organizations and will fund various projects including textbook and curriculum updates; school and church renovations; and a strategic plan that will span all 31 Diocesan schools, allowing them to make Catholic education affordable and accessible to all parts of the Catholic community. 

Twice yearly, grants are given to organizations that demonstrate their ability to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the Catholic community.  The grants were made from the unrestricted endowment ($563,727) and the restricted funds of the Catholic Foundation ($333,756), which included funds established through the foundation by individuals or families.

For more than 55 years, the Catholic Foundation has dedicated its resources to compassionate charitable giving through grants provided by benefactors through its planned giving programs.  During the last 25 years, this nonprofit corporation has provided more than $65 million from the unrestricted endowment and donor-established funds to meet the needs within the Diocese of Dallas and the community.

l-r:  Ed Schaffler, president and CEO, Catholic Foundation; Thomas W. Codd, distribution chair, Catholic Foundation Board of Trustees; Rob Hartman, Catholic Foundation Board of Trustees; Alex Sandoval, pastoral associate, Good Shepherd Catholic Church; and Joseph C. Murphy.  Catholic Foundation Board of Trustees gather as the foundation presents Sandoval a $100,000 grant for Good Shepherd Catholic School.

Posted May 21, 2011

Two moms who returned to school after having their children were awarded the first annual Texas Association of Certified Public Accountants scholarship. TACPA president John Furge presented the two $500.00 scholarships to 37-year-old Nancy Vargas and 35-year-old Leigh Ann Carver during the Richland College Student Success banquet on Tuesday, April 26, 2011. Both women plan to earn their associate's degrees at Richland College before transferring to 4-year colleges to complete their educations.

Nancy Vargas, of Garland, is a fulltime student working toward her associate's degree in Science. She plans to transfer to the University of Texas at Dallas to pursue her bachelor's degree in Accounting. Nancy is married and has three children.  Since returning to school, Nancy has been an exemplary student, earning a 4.0 GPA and helping tutor fellow students.  Asked what motivates her, Nancy says she wants to set a good example for her children and, when they are ready to go to college, she wants to be able to financially support them and motivate them to find their passion just as she has.

Leigh Carver, of Wylie, also is a role model for her 14-year-old daughter. Leigh works two jobs to support the two of them while attending Richland College fulltime. She returned to school two years ago, committed to finishing her education and fulfilling her dream. While this has been difficult, Leigh says she has learned more from it than she could ever learn from a book. When she's not working or studying, Leigh is involved with her daughter's activities.  Leigh plans to earn her associate's degree in Business Administration, then transfer to Texas A&M- Commerce for her bachelor's degree.  Leigh says she has been told she has a knack for numbers. She is excited about pursuing a career she is passionate about.

The Texas Association of Certified Public Accountants (TACPA) is a nonprofit, voluntary, professional organization of Texas CPAs.  The TACPA dedicates itself exclusively to the unique interests of CPAs in public practice, including preserving the integrity and enhancing the value of the CPA certificate within business and financial communities.

Posted May 21, 2011

Jack Patterson of the Garland Scottish Rite Club, Texas Masonic Lodges, was named Chairperson of the Year by the Association of Donor Recruitment Professionals during their 2011 annual conference in Minneapolis, Minn.

Patterson first became involved in blood donation more than 20 years ago, through a partnership with his Garland Scottish Rite Club and Carter BloodCare, who submitted Patterson for this award. Patterson has worked tirelessly over the years to implement blood drives at Masonic Lodges statewide, which have collected approximately 50,000 units of blood, enough to cover all of the blood expenses for all 22 Shriner hospitals in Texas and the United States.

In addition to time and energy given toward the Gift of Life Program, Patterson volunteers to train future coordinators. He also continues to organize four annual drives for his Garland Lodge, which consistently collects close to 300 units annually. Patterson is also a recipient of America’s Blood Center’s humanitarian Award. As a 57-gallon donor himself, Patterson is recognized among his peers and the donor community for his dedication to organizing drives and educating people about the needs and services of blood donation.

The Association of Donor Recruitment Professionals is committed to being a leader in providing education, development, and resources for the donor recruitment profession and is the only organization devoted exclusively to donor recruitment as a profession. Since the blood, marrow and blood cell, organ and tissue industry is rapidly changing, ADRP informs members of the latest issues affecting these donor recruitment fields. ADRP represents donor recruitment professionals worldwide.

The Chairperson of the Year Award was established in 2006. ADRP recognizes that chairpersons are the

front line of recruitment and often the first person a prospective donor meets. Their partnership with recruitment professionals and their assistance in reaching out to the community is the key to our success.

Posted May 17, 2011

On Saturday, May 14 U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-05) honored Garland Eagle Scouts at a special recognition ceremony at Central Lutheran Church in Dallas. Troop leaders, parents and invited guests attended the recognition ceremony along with the Eagle Scouts.

“Today’s Eagle Scouts are the leaders of tomorrow,” said Congressman Hensarling.  “Receiving my Eagle Scout was one of the proudest moments of my life, and I welcome these young men to the ranks of some of America’s most dedicated servants.”

Only about five percent of all Boy Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.  “The values, ethics, and morality you learn through scouting is critical to you, but it is critical to this nation as well,” Congressman Hensarling remarked in his address to the Eagle Scouts. 

“You represent the best of the best as an Eagle Scout.  My charge to you is that you make sure that Eagle Scout is not just a milestone or destination in your life.  Instead, for your sake and your country’s sake, make sure Eagle Scout is a way of life.”

The Garland Eagle Scouts who were honored at Saturday’s ceremony include Nathanael Zachary and Shane Easington.

Photo:  l-r - Nathanael Zachary, Congressman Hensarling, Shane Easington

Kim Everett | May 15, 2011

Chester and Dorothy Herron dated for five months before getting married on May 15, 1941.  He was sure that she was the one for him as soon as he met her.  It took Dorothy a little longer to be certain.  She lived in Devine, Texas and was visiting a friend in San Antonio when she met Chester.  As fate would have it, they were both part of a group of young people going to the movie together.  Chester’s current girlfriend, who he had found out was going out with another guy as well, was also part of the group.  When she left the group to go somewhere with the other boyfriend, Chester was not affected because he had already fallen for Dorothy.

Chester had joined the U.S. Army in 1939, so Dorothy immediately became a military wife.  Chester had gotten married without the permission of his Company Commander, so when the United States entered World War II, he had to present his marriage license so that he could continue living off base.  

For the duration of the war, the couple was together whenever possible, living in several different locations until Chester received orders to go overseas.  Finding living space was difficult during the war, and in Walla Walla, Washington, after much searching, Chester found a small house.  Their first daughter had been born by this time, so she and Dorothy joined Chester in a house so small that the bed completely filled the bedroom.  “The bed was against two walls and you could barely walk around,” Dorothy said.

By the time Chester received orders to go to France, they had welcomed another daughter into the family, and Dorothy and the girls went home to San Antonio to wait for his return.  Communications was not what it is now, and she often had no idea what was going on or where Chester was. 

At one point near the end of the war he had to go to Holland for rehab after his legs were frozen, and it was while he was there that the war ended.

Dorothy and Chester agree that one of the secrets to making a marriage last for 70 years is not to get mad at the same time.  They also said that couples should talk things out before making big decisions.  “Tell each other what you really think,” Chester said. 

Dorothy talked about the importance of learning to forgive.  “The best thing to do is put yourself in their place and you get an idea of what the other person is thinking, maybe why they did what they did,” Dorothy said. 

Dorothy’s faith was indispensable in helping her get through the uncertain war years, and she and Chester believe that going to church is important.  “Go to church and listen and learn something,” Chester said.

Another piece of advice from the couple:  Young couples should save money for the future.  They said that these days, people seem to spend all they make, putting nothing back for later. 

Chester and Dorothy had another daughter after the war, and the family moved to Garland in 1965 when Brown Express Freight Lines, the company where Chester worked as a truck driver, transferred him. 

The couple agrees that things have changed a lot in the last 70 years.  Bread was five cents per loaf then; a T-bone steak was 50 cents; and gasoline was 11 cents per gallon.  A bottle of Coke was five cents, and you turned your bottle back in at the store for a penny.

Things are different for kids now as well.  “Back then the kids would get out in the street and play.  They knew it was time to come home when the porch light went on. We could let them do that then, but we wouldn’t now,” Dorothy said.

They also said that kids have much more than they need these days.  “When I was a boy, if you had a bicycle, you were rich,” Chester said.

Society has changed, too.  “People were more honest and more trusting then,” Dorothy said.  They said that you didn’t have to worry about locking your doors and the neighbors knew and trusted each other.

Dorothy, who has a computer and uses email, said that the technological advances are unbelievable.  “I don’t know anything about Facebook, but I’m on it,” Dorothy said.

Chester’s closing words of wisdom on making a marriage last:  “You have to learn to take a little and give a little.  I say things sometimes without thinking, but I don’t build up anything or hold a grudge,” he said.  “I get everything off my chest.  If it’s in me, it’s going to come out.  I could have been a general in the military if it hadn’t been for this mouth.” 

Dorothy and Chester have five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, family members, and many friends who helped them celebrate this special anniversary on Sunday, May 15.

Posted May 10, 2011

On Saturday afternoon in Plano, U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3^rd Dist.-Texas) thanked the 46 students from public, private and home schools for a job well done on the Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC).  Luke Emigh, Rowlett High School student and Ginu Scaria, Naaman Forest High School student, were among the students honored.  Johnson also praised them for volunteering over 500 hours on behalf of the high-caliber group for Third District high school students.

Named “CYAC in the Community,” this philanthropic initiative empowered CYAC members to “pay it forward” and to volunteer on behalf of the group.  CYAC students volunteered their time and talents with over 30 organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and the USO, to name a few. 

Johnson refers to the members as “Student ambassadors to Congress.”  In addition to the project and home-based assignments, the group meets four times a year.  For the fourth and final meeting Johnson invited the parents to watch their students in action.

At the meeting Johnson asked the students for their take on the recent and historic news - the end of bin Laden.  “I for one felt very proud to be an American upon learning that the Navy SEALs got him.  I think we all owe our men and women in uniform a debt of gratitude – and I’m thankful that justice was served.  I think that this is one more opportunity for America to learn about the valor of our Navy SEALs.  If you do a little research, you’ll see amazing stories about those who have trained and served on Seal Team Six.  It will truly take your breath away,” said Johnson, a 29-year Air Force veteran and former Prisoner of War in Vietnam for nearly seven years.

The last meeting featured keynote speaker Air Force veteran Jason Morgan and his dog, Nepal, of McKinney.  Morgan was a member of the Air Force's Special Operations unit before he was injured during a counter narcotics mission in Ecuador in 1999.  While the mission was a success, Morgan was attacked while driving away.  Miraculously, a highly skilled American Missionary found Morgan just five minutes later.  He saved Morgan’s life, but the crash left Morgan paralyzed from the waist down. 

Ten years after the accident, the nonprofit Canine Companions for Independence gave Morgan a black Labrador retriever named Nepal.  Jason shared his personal stories and experiences with the group.

In closing, Johnson also presented a Congressional Record chronicling the students’ work on “CYAC in the Community.”  The project summary written by students followed the prepared remarks offered by Johnson.  As one student wrote in the brief essay, “CYAC in the Community has allowed me to realize my calling to serve those in the U.S. Armed Forces.” 

“I am beyond thrilled that CYAC has helped students unleash their full potential and chase their dreams,” said Johnson who created the group in 2004 to give high school students a voice in Congress.

Open to Third District residents enrolled in 9^th – 12^th grades in public, private and home schools, CYAC promotes civic activism and encourages young adults to study public policy, world events, and community news to make informed decisions about their future.

Official Congressional Record Text:  Recognizing the 2010-2011 CYAC for 500 hours of outstanding service to the community by U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson, April 2011.

Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure and privilege to inform the Members of the United States House of Representatives that the students of the 2010 – 2011 Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC) from the Third District of Texas have completed a total of 500 community service hours, fulfilling and far-surpassing the requirements of their assigned CYAC in the Community service project.

This year 46 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 10 through 12 made their voices heard by joining CYAC.  As the Third District’s young ambassadors to Congress, these bright high school students met with me on a quarterly basis to discuss current events and public policy.  These impressive young people recognize an important truth:  the heart of public service is found when giving back to the community.  CYAC students volunteered their time and talents with over 30 organizations including Adopt-A-Highway, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, Teen Court, and the USO, to name a few.  As one student shared, “CYAC in the Community has allowed me to realize my calling to serve those in the U.S. Armed Forces.”  I am beyond thrilled that CYAC has helped students unleash their full potential and chase their dreams.

President George H.W. Bush once said, “A volunteer is a person who can see what others cannot see; who can feel what most do not feel.  Often, such gifted persons do not think of themselves as volunteers, but as citizens - citizens in the fullest sense: partners in civilization.”

With this statement as a benchmark, I am proud to congratulate the members of the 2010 – 2011 Congressional Youth Advisory Council for showing themselves to be outstanding young citizens of this nation.  It is my privilege to submit summaries of their work to the Congressional Record to be preserved for posterity and antiquity.  To these young public servants, thank you, and keep up the great work!  I salute you.

Kim Everett | May 9, 2011

On Saturday, May 7, Angela Key and her sons Kaiser and Anthony received the keys to their brand new Garland home.

Lots of friends and family members joined the celebration as the house was dedicated, and through tears, Angela thanked everyone involved in the process.  The family had lived in an apartment before, and this is the first time that Kaiser and Anthony will have rooms of their own.  Angela is also happy about the simple pleasures that being a homeowner will bring.  “I’m looking forward to sitting on the porch and drinking tea,” she said.  “It’s the little things that will make it so nice.”

During the dedication, Bob Whitlock of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland explained that Habitat homes are not free.  The homeowner pays the mortgage, insurance, and taxes, but what makes it different is that there is no interested assessed on the loan. 

The homeowner also spends a pre-determined number of hours working on the home.  Angela spent 250 hours of what Whitlock referred to as “sweat equity” on the construction of her home.  Whitlock also thanked the volunteers and sponsors who helped make this happen.

This home is a Super Build 45 home, one of 45 built in the Dallas/Fort Worth area to commemorate Super Bowl 45.  There are currently 73 Habitat homes in Garland.  47 of those homes are rehabs, and 26 are newly constructed homes. 

Kim Everett | April 26, 2011

Since it was established in 1983, New Beginning Center has assisted more than 20,000 victims of domestic violence.  More than 68,000 calls have been fielded since the 1998 beginning of the hotline and information service, and since the count began in 1998, more than 196,000 hours have been logged by the agency’s volunteers.

As impressive as these statistics are, there is another number that has the potential to end domestic violence in our community – the 119,810 people, including high school and middle school students, who have been educated through the center’s programs.

The agency’s vision is: New Beginning Center, in partnership with other organizations, works to promote social change leading to the elimination of domestic violence.

In keeping with that vision, the center began its education outreach program in 1998.  For the next five years, representatives attended community events and fundraisers and conducted training programs to raise awareness.  In 2003, they began going out to area high schools to share the “Expect Respect” program and later added the “Find Your Edge” program for middle school students.

Research done by the Texas Council on Domestic Violence shows that 75 percent of high school students will either experience or know someone who has experienced teen dating violence before they graduate.  As a result of this research, the state legislature now requires that every district must develop and implement some type of teen dating violence prevention program.  New Beginning Center was ahead of the curve, having started the programs before it became law.

Expect Respect and Find Your Edge are designed to further the agency’s vision of ending domestic violence through education and prevention.  Both programs are delivered in the classroom with interactive dialogue and activities.  Expect Respect consists of three sessions, and high school students will go through the program twice before graduation.  Students are taught what teen violence is and what a healthy relationship is, along with learning the skills that healthy relationships require.

Find Your Edge, which is designed for and presented to middle school students, is an anti-bullying and boundaries program.

Also for teens, the Expose project is an awareness program where students wear t-shirts designed especially for the event.  Informational announcements are made daily, and teachers are given talking points to encourage conversations about teen violence.  In addition, drama students put on skits about mild forms of teen dating violence during lunch.  This program is conducted twice each year.

Additionally, New Beginning Center conducts the Trendsetters program, which is a week-long youth leadership seminar held during the summer.  Students are invited to attend and learn to be peer advocates.  These students also develop awareness projects which they present at school the next year.  The Expose project was developed by Garland High School students who attended the Trendsetters program and continues to be used in high schools each year.

“These programs truly could end domestic violence,” said Jennifer Morrison, New Beginning Center’s executive director.  “We know that the only way to end it is to promote healthy families and to teach young people how to have healthy relationships.  Everything this agency does is about promoting healthy families and relationships.”

New Beginning Center also offers a number of services for victims of domestic violence.  There is a non-residential program in which victims meet with a case manager and receive information about what the agency provides, which could be anything from regular meetings with a case manager to financial assistance for food and shelter, to help with obtaining legal assistance.  The agency has a legal advocate on staff who can write protective orders if necessary, and Legal Aid has an attorney that is at the office and shelter two times each month.    

Victims can participate in group counseling where they learn that they are not alone, which is an important discovery.  “There is power in that,” said Morrison.  “The source of the victim’s information is the perpetrator, so the information they get will be skewed.  The perpetrator will minimize their actions, deny them, or blame their behavior on the victim.”

All of this can be confusing to the victim, and if they are given the wrong information often enough, they often begin to doubt themselves and their ability to think clearly.  “The perpetrator will also use legal forms of violence to keep control over the victim, and some look and feel like love and respect,” said Morrison.  “They will be apologetic and remorseful, make promises, beg the victim to come home.  The intent though is power and control.  Without the right information, the victim is probably going to go back, so our goal is to educate.”

For victims who have decided that it is time to leave, New Beginning Center has a 33-bed shelter at a confidential location.  The requirement for getting into the shelter is that the victim and the children must be in eminent danger.  The shelter is staffed 24/7, and people come in all hours of the day and night.  They can stay there for 30 days while they meet with advocates and decide what their next move should be.  They get shelter, food, clothing, and whatever personal items they may need, as most of them leave their homes with nothing except the clothes they are wearing.  The Garland Independent School District works with victims at the shelter to get their children enrolled in school right away, and the shelter has uniforms, book bags, and school supplies for the kids, all of which are donated. 

The shelter serves victims from many locations.  Even some who are in transit from other cities and states. For example, a victim from California may be going to stay with family in Georgia and need a place to stay while traveling through Texas.  “It’s a collaborative effort from across the country,” Morrison said.

For a variety of reasons, some of the victims will choose to go back home.  It might be a situation where they are unable to provide for their children and they have no family that can help.  “But the vast majority of victims leave eventually.  Leaving is a process though, not an event,” Morrison said.

Another program the agency offers is called Transitional Housing.  The victims in this program are working toward becoming self-sufficient.  It is a two-year program with homes funded by HUD or the city of Garland.  Rent and utilities are guaranteed for 24 months during which the victim must be employed and put 30 percent of their earnings in savings.  The children must be in school or proper day care, and there are funds to help with that if needed.  They must meet with their advocate once a week in the office and once a month in the home. 

“Last year we graduated nine families out of the Transitional Housing program – seven remained completely self-sufficient after graduation,” Morrison said.  “This is a phenomenal program that truly changes the course of a person’s life and the family’s life.”

The Battering Intervention and Prevention Program is a fee for service program, and most of the participants are there because of court orders as part of their probation or parole.  It’s a 24-session program in which people in all phases of the program are together.  “What makes this program work is the peer to peer interaction.  When the new participants minimize, deny, or blame, the ones who have been in the program for a while hold them accountable,” Morrison said.  “They see through what the person is putting out there and encourage them to take a look at themselves.”

New Beginning Center also has a resale store which will soon be moving into the vacant Ridgewood Library building, located at 120 West Kingsley Road.  Items are donated to the resale shop and sold, and the money goes into the agency funds, which supports the services offered to victims of domestic violence.  In addition, clients can go to the shop and pick out items they need free of charge.  “The city has been a great partner to New Beginning Center over the years,” Morrison said.

The agency has a great working relationship with the Garland Police Department as well.  “We are very fortunate in that we have a chief of police that understands the issue of domestic violence,” Morrison said.  “He has an administration that he makes sure understands the issue as well.”  GPD has a pro-arrest policy which means that if they get called out on a domestic violence incident, instead of separating the two people involved, the officer is to identify the primary aggressor and arrest that person. 

New Beginning Center receives government funding; private and public foundation money, organizational money, individual money, corporate money, resale store receipts, fundraising profits. 

Their next fundraiser is the “Tee Off to End Domestic Violence” golf tournament on June 3.  They are still accepting sponsorships and donations for the tournament. 

Visit www.newbeginningcenter.org for information on how to help with the golf tournament or become an agency volunteer.  There is also a wish list of items posted on the site. 

Kim Everett | April 25, 2011

Johnny McCoy, coach of the Garland High School boys track team began inventing things more than 20 years ago.  His interest in how things work began during childhood when he would find watches that didn’t work, take them apart, and repair them.  “I didn’t know how I did it,” he said.  “I was just able to fix them.”  That ability grew into McCoy being able to visualize something and then build it.

He graduated from GHS in 1977.  While there, he enjoyed a variety of accomplishments as an athlete, lettering multiple times in football, basketball, and track.  He was also part of a record-setting state championship sprint relay team in 1977.

After high school, McCoy played football at Ranger Junior College, and then he went to Rice University where he was a wide receiver and kick returner.  He left Rice early to play football for the Oakland Raiders, but the NFL went on strike before he had a chance to begin his career.  He did however play pro football in the Canadian league and the USFL.  One of his proudest accomplishments was being inducted into the Garland Sports Hall of Fame.

As a GHS track coach, he took the boys relay teams to the state meet in 2004 and 2006 and helped the girls’ team win seven district titles in 10 years.  He has also coached volleyball and basketball.

It was during his time spent as a volleyball coach at GHS that he got the idea for one of his inventions.  He noticed that the team needed to improve their spiking and in 2000 came up with an idea for the Thunderspiker, which helps the athletes work on their spiking approach.  Since that time, he has improved upon the design, and the Thunderspiker is used by volleyball teams in several different states as well as numerous districts throughout Texas.

Another of McCoy’s inventions that is being used by numerous school districts is the Angel Flag.  The flag is an improvement on the flags used by school crossing guards.  He was inspired to come up with something better because he would often see children and/or crossing guards nearly be hit by cars because of poor visibility.  The Angel Flag is lit for better visibility when it is hazy or foggy and also has the Spanish translation for the word “stop.”  In addition to the GISD schools that are using the Angel Flag, schools in San Antonio, Frisco, Austin, and El Paso are currently are using it as well.

Also on the list of McCoy’s invention is a weight machine that he built specifically for rehab work for athletes because he wasn’t happy with what was available.  Another item that he has in the works is for stranded motorists – a lighted sign that can be stored in the truck of vehicles and placed behind the vehicle during breakdowns.

McCoy’s faith has played a huge role in his success.  As a child, he survived the loss of his father, being taken from his mother and being placed in an intensely dysfunctional family; but he persevered through faith.  “You must know that you can overcome anything.  All you have to do is trust in God, not only in bad times, but in all times,” he said.  “If you should fall down, all you have to do is call on the Lord.”

McCoy, his wife Starla Ann, and his four children are all GHS graduates. 

Buddy League celebrates opening day

Kim Everett | April 18, 2011

The blue spring sky was perfect for team members, families, coaches, buddies, and friends who gathered at Bradfield Park Saturday, April 16 to celebrate opening day of the Buddy League baseball season.

Mayor Ronald E. Jones was on hand to throw out the first pitch and representatives from two of the league’s supporting organizations, Softask and Guns and Hoses, were there to join in the fun.  Heather Miller, founder of Buddy League, thanked all those who help support the baseball league for special needs individuals, the families and the volunteers who come to support and help the players, and the city of Garland, who provides the field.  She dedicated the season to two past players and a coach who have passed away.

This season, in addition to designating the field for Buddy League’s use, the city installed new gates and cleared paths to make the dugout and field more wheelchair friendly, and they shortened the benches in the dugout so that players in wheelchairs can get in and sit with the other players.

Anthony Schnurr, a representative from Softask, presented a $10,000 check to Buddy League, and Guns & Hoses, who also provides financial support, were at the ballpark to cook hot dogs for the players and families at no charge.  Lt. Dave Swavey, Gary, Carie, and Lauren Mork, Bob and Linda Price, and Chris Hostrup represented Guns & Hoses on opening day.  The organization has been partnering with Buddy League for six years.  Dr. Pepper donated drinks that were given out by Guns & Hoses members.

Girl Scout Troop 1795 was also there to help.  Susannah and Kayla and their troop leader sold pendants made from dominoes and donated the money raised to Buddy League.  Both of the Girl Scouts have siblings who play in the league and understand its importance.

The league is not only great for the players.  Two mothers of children with special needs, Sarah and Tisha expressed gratitude for Buddy League.  Sarah’s daughter Avery and Tisha’s son Travis, both 4-years-old, are playing in the league for the first time this season.  “It means a lot for them to be able play sports like other kids,” Sarah said.  Avery’s sister Angie enjoyed helping her younger sister bat and run the bases.

Heather and Curt Miller started the league in 2002 for their special needs son Ben, who had been able to play baseball on teams with his brothers until he was 11-years-old.  The day they received the phone call telling them that those teams could no longer make the modifications necessary for Ben to play, they knew they had to do something – not just for Ben, but also for all the other kids who had been unable to experience the fun of playing a team sport.  So Buddy League was born.  Since then the league has grown to more than 100 players per season, giving these special needs kids the opportunity to do what the other kids do – play a sport, have fun, and make friends.

Kim Everett | April 17, 2011

The Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas gathered at Garland’s downtown square on Saturday, April 16 for their Awareness and Youth Service Day.   Along with food, drinks, and fun, Girl Scouts of all ages were there to share important information as well as help the community.

There were clothing and canned food collection points and recycling drives for several items.  In addition, there were booths where visitors could learn about the history of Girls Scouts and camping, along with booths for selling Girl Scout cookies. 

The city’s Animal Services Department participated by bringing pets for adoption and distributing pet care information.

Kim Everett | April 11, 2011

Kristal and Dean Davis, along with lots of help from their church family, hosted the third annual Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 2 at Garland’s Carter Softball Complex.  Orchard Hills Baptist Church members came through with monetary donations, baked goods, eggs, and lots of prayers to help Kristal and Dean host the event for 180 special needs individuals and their families. 

More than 26,000 eggs were donated and filled with candy with the help of many volunteers.  Two scouts from the White Rock District, one who is special needs, made it their Eagle Scout project.  One collected eggs, and the other accumulated the candy to fill them.  “We felt very honored to be an Eagle Scout project,” Kristal said.

In addition, the Lake Highlands Church youth group brought enough candy and other items to stuff 2,000 eggs.  Bryant Printing donated free printing of flyers to help get the word out, and Dr. Bill Cabaniss obtained Frito Lay desserts for the volunteer room.

In comparison, approximately 10,000 eggs were donated the first year.  In 2010, the number rose to 15,000.  “We are still amazed that we reached over 26,000 this year,” Kristal said.

Other activities included bounce houses for the kids, and Petland brought live bunnies for participants to pet and hold.  The Garland Fire Department, Station 4, brought a fire truck and ambulance that the kids could explore.  The Christian Motorcyclist Association brought four motorcycles along with the T-Rex car, as well.  Free hot dog lunches were also provided for special needs individuals and their families.  The kids also enjoyed getting their photos taken with the Easter bunny.

The Davis’ host additional events, including an annual swim party at Surf & Swim and an annual Christmas party, through their non-profit organization, the Special Ones Network.  As the parents of a child with autism, the Davis’ understand that there are very few activities for these special ones, and they are determined to change that, one event at a time.

Kim Everett | April 12, 2011
 

Good Samaritans of Garland employees and volunteers are always busy, but the last few months of 2010 were even busier than usual.

According to Director Kathleen West, the holiday season is the most rewarding time of the year, and last year, the organization was able to provide a full Thanksgiving dinner for more than 100 families.  In addition, 135 families received Christmas dinners, and 400 children got Christmas gifts.  All this was made possible by the funding that Good Samaritans receives, corporate and private donations, and the hard work of the employees and volunteers.  

The fourth grade Hawks cheerleaders brought food and spent a day working at the office, and students from the Blue Ivey School also brought food for families in need.

The Good Samaritans Board of Directors has also been re-organized recently, and the members attended two one-day retreats to review the organization’s goals.  The current board members are:  James Aswegan, Kymberlaine Banks, Bill Clifton, Bill Mathews, Mary McClellan, Jim Pickrell, Dr. Becky Chandler-Berry, and Mark Wickersham.  All are committed to preventing homelessness and hunger among the working poor of Garland and the GISD area.  Board positions are still available.

Also during the last few months of 2010, Carole Rylander of Rylander Associates inspired board members and staff members with classes in which she shared her expertise in governance, fundraising, and other subjects.

Following the classes, were two all-day strategic planning retreats which served to unite the board and staff in their goals and objectives for the next two to three years. 

Good Samaritans is located at 214 North 12^th Street in downtown Garland.  The staff is happy to schedule tours for anyone interested.  Call Kathy West at 972-276-2263 to schedule tours.  Call Bill Clifton for information on volunteer opportunities.

The organization’s services include food for families in need and assistance with rent and utility bills, as well as financial literacy classes.

Board members may be reached by visiting www.goodsamaritansofgarland.org or by leaving a message at the number above.

New Ms. Senior Garland crowned
 
Posted April 4, 2011

Sharon Whitrock received the Ms. Senior Garland Classic crown from last year's Ms. Senior Garland Classic Jessica Acosta on Saturday, April 2.

As the wife of a retired career Army officer, Sharon has had the opportunity to travel and see the world, but she was very happy to put down roots after she and her husband Tom moved to Garland in 2001.

All of her travels afforded Sharon many professional opportunities ranging from executive assistant to the mayor and director of human resources in Lawrence, Ind. where she grew up.  She is now in the human resources at the Garland corporate office of a local bank with a “global reach.”

The job she is most looking forward to, however, is her role as Ms. Garland Senior Classic and promoting the city of Garland and the Garland Senior Activity Center.

Posted March 12, 2011

Chris Blethen, a five-year cancer survivor, is on a mission to raise awareness of pediatric cancer and provide financial assistance to their families.  “Cowboy Chris” began his journey on horseback in Euless Tuesday, March 8, and rode through Garland Thursday, March 10.  He, along with five horses, is on his way to New York and will be sharing hope and information along the way.

Blethen, who expects the “Horse Ride for Heroes” to take four or five months, is riding for a charity called Heroes for Children.  The charity, which has offices in Richardson and Houston, provides financial and social assistance to Texas families with children battling cancer, donates laptops to teenagers who are fighting the disease, and helps families during the holidays by donating gifts.  According to the group’s website, www.heroesforchildren.org, more than $45,000 is spent each month on direct financial assistance.

Blethen said that one in four of Texas schools have a student with cancer.  “It’s proven that children’s cancer is increasing…You hear a lot about adult cancer, but not children’s cancer,” he said.  It is estimated that more than 1,000 Texas children will be diagnosed with cancer this year.

Born in El Paso and raised in Wichita Falls, Blethen has been riding horses most of his life.  He now lives in Euless.  He brought his tent along and finds a place to camp at night.  “I just find a grassy spot where the horses can graze and pitch my tent,” he said.  His goal is to travel 30 miles per day. 

His first financial goal was to raise $3000, which would be $1 for each mile of the round trip; but according to a Facebook post, he has increased the amount to $15,000 ($5 per mile) because $1,100 has already been donated.

Follow his journey at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Horse-Ride-for-Heroes.

 

Mayor Jones and Peggy Jones greet NFL quarterback   Posted March 6, 2011   Garland Mayor Ronald Jones and Mrs. Peggy Jones greet Tennessee Titan Quarterback Vince Young at the Professional Football Players Mothers Association dinner event held at the Atrium in downtown Garland during Super Bowl weekend.

 

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Girl Scouts build tasty ‘cookie-sauruses’
 

Posted March 4, 2011

 

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas recently put their engineering skills to work at the Museum of Nature & Science for the annual “Cookie Box Creations” program. The Girl Scouts have teamed up with women architects and engineers in a fun and challenging design contest to build free-standing, structures out of empty cookie boxes.

       

This year, the girls built dinosaur themed structures, as part of the traveling exhibit, “Dinosaurs Unearthed” currently on display at the Museum of Nature & Science. The creations will be on display for public viewing at the Museum of Nature & Science lobby from February 27- March 20. The winner will be announced in a ceremony at the Museum of Nature & Science on March 20.

 

This program is especially interesting to Girl Scouts thinking about a career in architecture or engineering. Through this challenge, Girl Scouts work to develop critical thinking skills and promote cooperation and team-building.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is an integral part of Girl Scouts’ Business and Economic Literacy initiative for girls in grades K through 12. The program helps Girl Scouts develop five key skills, including goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics.

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Kim Everett | February 21, 2011

Art and Ellie Silbernagel, who will celebrate their 70^th wedding anniversary on March 1, could teach us all a thing or two about love, commitment, and devotion.

At a time when almost half of all U.S. marriages end in divorce, Art and Ellie remain dedicated to each other.  “You have to have patience…And you can’t run home to mother every time you have a little argument,” Ellie said.  “We lived in Chicago and my mother lived in Houston, so we had to work things out by ourselves.”

Ellie grew up in Houston, and Art lived in a Chicago suburb.  They met through a mutual friend when Ellie went to Chicago to visit an aunt.  They went dancing with another couple on the first night; then Art called and invited her out for a Fourth of July celebration.  Ellie decided to stay in Chicago, and they got married a year and a half later. 

The couple moved into a $27 per month one-room apartment and started their lives together.  Art and Ellie agree that things were better back then in many ways.  “We made our own entertainment.  We’d have friends over and play cards, poker with a 3 cent limit,” Ellie said.

“I remember driving into a gas station and asking for 50 cents worth, which bought three gallons, and they would wipe the windshield, check the oil, and check your tires,” Ellie said.  “We could go out for ice cream for five cents each, and we had milk delivered to our door.” 

“We bought a brand new car in 1946 for $800, a Chevy from General Motors.  After we had our son Don, we traded it in on a four-door for $75,” Art said.  When they found out they were going to have a baby, they made arrangements with the doctor to pay a few dollars each week to cover the $50 bill that included prenatal care, delivery, and six months of subsequent care.

Art worked for General Motors in Chicago, and Ellie was a hairdresser.  “When we got married, I was getting $10 for a six-day work week,” she said.  When she was offered a job for $1 per hour, which included child care, Ellie said it felt like a fortune.

Economics is not the only thing that has changed during their time together.  The technological advances are surprising to them as well.  “We used to have a little 7-inch television, and there was one station,” Art said.  “We’ve seen the computer technology, and the cars are so different now than when I was with General Motors.  The changes we’ve seen in our lifetime have been remarkable.” 

Ellie believes that technology has gone too far in some ways.  “It’s kind of gotten out of hand when you see robots making cars; it’s taking away a lot of employment,” she said.   Everything was done by hand at GM when Art worked there.  “Now computers are doing everything,” he said.

Art’s advice for young people getting married in today’s world is to be active in the church.  “We’ve been going to church all this time, and I think that a lot of young people now don’t go to church,” he said.  I know it’s hard because they have kids and both work, but it would help if they did.”

Another thing that makes it difficult for young people now is that they want to start out with everything.  “They don’t want to start out with the old washing machine…They want the best of everything from the beginning,” Ellie said.  “I think that is one of the biggest problems.” 

They agree that kids being spoiled and having everything is a problem as well.  “You hear how kids take parents to court if they spank them once,” Ellie said.  “And you can’t send them to their rooms for punishment now, because they have everything in their rooms -- computers, television, games.  They are spoiled and the parents are spoiled.”

Art wonders if it wasn’t better when they were young.  “We had to struggle to get things we wanted,” he said. “We are always talking at church about how we had it rough, but we all think we had a better life back at that time.  We struggled, but we were together, and whatever we got, we were thankful for it.”

The couple started out in the one-room apartment and later moved to a two and one half room apartment where they lived for 11 years.  After that they felt fortunate to move to a two bedroom home with one bath.  Later they were able to buy a new home near Chicago for $18,000 on a corner lot.  They surprised the lender because they had no bills.  They owed no money because they had never bought anything on credit.  They saved for things they wanted until they could pay cash.

They know how fortunate they are to have each other.  “There are so many widows here [Christian Care Center],” Ellie said.  “It’s good to have your husband with you, and we’re grateful for every day we have.”

“The older you get, it seems like you love people more than you did before,” Art said.  “And the older you get the more dependent you become on each other.”

They moved from Chicago to Rowlett in 1980 to be closer to their son, and two years ago, they moved to the Christian Care Center.  They love it at CCC because they have every amenity they could want.  There is no yard to take care of; they have a church on-site, a heated pool, and an exercise room. 

The center provides transportation to and from the store, doctor’s appointments, and other activities for those who need it.  There are also birthday parties, card games, computer courses, and entertainment. “There’s no reason to be lonely here,” Ellie said.

The couple’s son Don is an only child as were Art and Ellie.  Don and his wife Ann live in Fairview, and they have a daughter, Heather, who has blessed Art and Ellie with a great-grandson named Jordan. 

They are active and enjoy life to the fullest.  Art likes playing Santa Claus at Christmas and the bunny rabbit at Easter for area kids that come to the center.  Ellie enjoys keeping up with friends via email and painting.  They both still drive and enjoy going out to lunch.

Their life together has not always been easy, but they never thought of giving up on their marriage.  They had to work hard for everything they got, which strengthened their relationship, deepened their mutual love and respect, and makes them a wonderful example of lasting love, devotion, and determination.

Posted February 20, 2011

At a strategic planning retreat, the board of directors of Good Samaritans of Garland, Inc. announced the appointment of Bill Clifton to the position of volunteer coordinator.   In the past Bill has worked as the volunteer coordinator for the city of Garland during special events such as Star Spangled Fourth.

Anyone wishing to volunteer at Good Samaritans can contact Bill by logging onto the website and leaving a message -- www.goodsamaritansofgarland.org.

Good Samaritans of Garland is located at 214 North 12^th Street in Garland and serves the communities of Garland, Rowlett, and Sachse with food, utility assistance, and rental assistance. 

Posted February 16, 2011

On Sunday, Jan. 30 Dr. David Rogers accepted a call to serve as the next lead pastor of Arapaho Road Baptist Church in Garland.  ARBC welcomes the Rogers family and looks forward to Dr. Rogers’ first Sunday preaching on Feb. 27. 

An avid sports fan of the Rangers, Cowboys, and Mavericks, Dr. Rogers also enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with his family.  As a native Texan, he was born and raised in Waco, and later answered a call to full-time ministry when he moved to the DFW area to serve at The Heights Church in Richardson. 

After thirteen years on staff at The Heights, Dr. Rogers and his family are answering a new ministry call at ARBC. 

The ARBC church family is united with excitement and joy in all the ways that God has moved throughout our search for a new pastor and anticipates the exciting days that are ahead.  Your family is invited to meet our new pastor and his family during worship on Sundays at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  We also offer Bible Fellowships (study groups) for every age during both worship hours.  For information or directions, visit www.arbcgarland.com.

Kim Everett | February 16, 2011 -- Photos by Edd Holden

The Achievement Center of Texas and Garland Independent School District joined forces to present the Special Arts Festival Saturday, Feb. 12 at the Special Events Center. 

The event was sponsored by ACT, GISD, the Garland Cultural Arts Commission, Bluebonnet Recovery, The Lab at Lake Highlands, John Bramblitt, and Rosemary and Charles Doolin.

According to their website, the annual festival showcases the talents of people with disabilities and provides a means for exploring creativity and self-expression through the arts.

The day included art and activity tables sponsored by Reach, Pilot Club of Dallas, Region 10, Optimist Club of North Texas, Transitional Learning Center, Donna Harris, and the Garland Messenger, to name just a few. 

The day’s full schedule of entertainment included music by Ora Ellis, Rick Richards, Mel Finfrock and ACT students, along with interpretive signing by Lisa Smith and dancing.

Kim Everett | February 6, 2011

The snow and ice that covered the ground on Saturday, Feb. 5 didn’t stop the festivities at a newly completed Habitat for Humanity house in Garland.  A large group of volunteers, friends, and supporters braved the icy conditions to help Charnell Moore and her family celebrate the completion of their new home.  Moore and her children, 17-year-old Marilyn, 15-year-old Tiye, 10-year-old Andrew, and 7-year-old Ja-Quincy, moved into the house over the weekend.

Habitat for Humanity of Garland built the home in approximately six months with help from numerous volunteers and businesses.  The program is referred to as a “hand up, not a hand-out” because the homeowners must contribute a minimum number of sweat equity hours on the construction.  Moore worked more than 250 hours on her home.  She will be responsible for making monthly mortgage payments at zero percent interest.

During the dedication ceremony, Moore was presented with several gifts including a Bible, bread to represent the staff of life, flowers for beauty and renewal, a tool box for keeping the house in good repair, a laundry basket full of supplies to keep the house neat and tidy, and, of course, the keys to her home.  Through tears, Moore thanked everyone.  “I’m very grateful,” she said.  “My kids are very grateful.”