Kim Everett | September 7, 2010

The Garland Jaycees hosted their 65th Annual Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 6.  Local politicians and hopefuls, high school cheerleaders, drill teams, and bands, pee-wee football teams and cheerleaders, boy scouts, and many more rode in the parade as onlookers enjoyed the show.
 

 

Submitted by Truett Welborn | September 1, 2010

Mr. Marty Bossman has lived in Garland’s New World area for at least 30 years and is a member of our Citizens on Patrol group.  He knows nearly everyone by first name because he walks a lot and talks a lot.  He has a big heart and loves everyone. Every neighborhood should be fortunate enough to have a Marty Bossman.

About two years ago his sister started growing her hair out for Locks of Love and encouraged Marty to do the same. For the last two years as Marty attended the Neighborhood Crime Watch Meetings, we’ve all had something to say about his long hair and asked when he was going to get it cut. “It’s growing for Locks of Love, and it is not quite long enough yet,” he always said.

Two weeks ago he quietly made a phone call to neighbor Carole George and asked if he could visit her. Carole had no idea what Marty had on his mind when he arrived, but he told her that he had made an appointment to get his hair cut and wanted her to do the honors.  He would then donate it to Locks of Love in her honor. Carole had chemotherapy about a year ago, and he sent her cards nearly every week and stayed in contact with her through the ordeal. 

The gesture was very special to Carole, and we want to let him know how much she appreciated him.  We also want to encourage others to do the same for people who are undergoing cancer treatment.

Posted September 2, 2010

Congressman Jeb Hensarling (Texas-05) announced that Thomas Ohlgren of Garland has joined his Dallas office as an intern.  Ohlgren’s responsibilities have included assisting the Congressman with administrative and legislative needs as well as providing constituent services.

“I am very excited about Thomas’s service in Dallas this summer.  Dallas County can be pleased about the high level of service he is providing to 5^th District residents.  He’s got a unique opportunity to learn valuable lessons about Congress through hands-on experience,” Congressman Hensarling said. 

Ohlgren attended Richland Community College last semester and plans to attend Hillsdale College and major in economics. He enjoys playing soccer in his free time and works at BJ’s restaurant in Mesquite.

He said that the internship has allowed him to gain “knowledge about the work of a congressional office, observe the role of the Congressman in relation to his constituents, and nurture his conservative views.”

Visit www.hensarling.house.gov for more information on internships.

Kim Everett | August 25, 2010

Mexicali Café and Cantina at Belt Line and North Garland Avenue hosted a fundraiser for Good Samaritans Thursday, August 19.  A portion of all receipts was donated to the Garland charitable organization, and additional donations were made as diners registered for the door prizes that were given every half hour.

Founded by the Ministerial Alliance of Garland in 1982, the mission of Good Samaritans of Garland, Inc. is to prevent homelessness and hunger in the city of Garland and the Garland Independent School District.  They work toward their mission in several ways. 

They provide utility assistance for both TXU and Garland Power & Light customers who meet the requirements. In addition, they give rental assistance to eligible Garland residents through a Community Development Block Grant.

Their food assistance program is funded by and receives donations from various sources.  Corporate sponsors, along with civic organizations, Boy Scouts, U.S. Postal Service, churches, and individuals, give generously throughout the year to help Good Samaritans keep their food pantries, refrigerators, and freezers stocked. 

Located at 214 North 12^th Street, Good Samaritans has various volunteer opportunities and appreciates the community’s help.  Just a few of the tasks they need help with are:  performing general office duties; researching and writing grant proposals; running errands; greeting clients; fundraising and event planning; language translation; helping in the pantry; and yard work.  Call 972-276-2263 for volunteer information.

Posted August 22, 2010

Century 21 Judge Fite Company is announcing the launch of the 21st Century Child: Picture the Future photo-sharing contest. By participating, families throughout Garland can help raise money to benefit children and families living with autism.

Nationally, the Century 21(r) System and its partner, Easter Seals, are asking families in the United States - whether personally affected by autism or not - to visit 21Centurychild.com and share a favorite photo of their child (ages five and younger) and an inspirational message. After the photo is uploaded, participants are encouraged to share their photo and fundraising campaign profile with family, friends and others through their social network. For every photo uploaded, the Century 21 System will make a donation to the cause.

Beginning August 1 and running through September 30, this photo-sharing campaign unites families to support, inspire, and empower those affected by autism. The contestant that generates the highest amount of financial contributions will win a $2,100 Apple gift card. The next six highest fundraisers will win an Apple iPad.

All money raised by the contest will help Easter Seals and Act for Autism provide families affected by autism with the assistance they need, including emotional support, equal access to treatment and innovative coping strategies.

"Century 21 Judge Fite Company is proud to support the Easter Seals' Act for Autism campaign and we hope our local families will do the same," said James Fite.

Complete rules and regulations are available at www.21Centurychild.com.

Kim Everett | August 17, 2010

The cast and crew of “Chase,” a new NBC series that premieres Monday, September 20 at 9 p.m., were filming in downtown Garland today.

The drama is centered around a team of U.S. marshals, led by Annie Frost (portrayed by Kelli Giddish), who pursue America’s most dangerous fugitives.  The NBC website describes the main character as a “cowboy boot-wearing deputy whose sharp mind and unique Texas upbringing help her track down violent criminals on the run.”

The series also stars Cole Hauser, Amaury Nolasco, Rose Rollins, and Jesse Metcalfe.

Posted August 15, 2010

The Achievement Center of Texas is looking for golfers, teams, and sponsors for its Fourth Annual Golf Tournament on October 11.  The tournament is presented by Berry Family Services, and once again, Ira Terrell, NBA and SMU basketball great, will serve as the celebrity host. 

The tournament, which will be held at the Prestonwood Country Club, Hills Course, at 6600 Columbine Way in Plano, will feature a 1:30 p.m. shotgun start, a buffet dinner, door prizes, a silent auction, and awards.

Tournament golfers and their spouses are invited to a complementary “Get Acquainted with ACT” dinner featuring enchiladas from Agave Azul Mexican restaurant and margaritas at the ACT campus on Saturday, October 9.  The dinner will feature tours of ACT and live entertainment by James "Elvis" Wages, Champion Elvis. 

All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the students of ACT.  For additional information and to sign up to play or help sponsor the event, contact Pat Nichols at 972 484-8227 or 214 477-2852 or sidekickfan_1@netzero.net.

Visit the ACT website at www.achievementcenteroftexas.org.