Most Memorable Holiday Events…

Our first encounter with Santa Claus took place on December 1, at Christmas on the Square in downtown Garland. This event always takes place on the first Thursday in December, so mark it on your new 2017 calendar. GISD students present their holiday musical programs, Santa Appears, the tree lighting takes place and there are many other features in this event that will put you in the holiday mood.

On the evening of December 19 we squeezed into the Generator Coffee House on Sixth Street to enjoy a musical program presented by the spectacular Goga. Listening to his sensational voice, with the tree lighted square in the background, put us in that Christmas frame of mind.  We shared a table with Anita Goebel, Pat Olson, Kendra Walden, Juanita Lopez and her hubby, Horacio. The place was packed and folding chairs were brought out to accommodate the overflow. We felt that the awesome performance was proprietor Nir Sela’s Christmas gift to us, and it was greatly appreciated.  Before departing the premises, Goga announced that he will be returning on January 23.

The Garland Firefighters Association, led by their president, David Riggs, assisted by Jerry Click, conducted their Christmas Shopping Spree at Walmart on Sunday morning, December 11th. The 100 underprivileged kids who participated were treated to a 125 dollars spending spree. The kids are led through the store by volunteers and Santa awaits after check out for gift requests and photos. Anita Goebel and Pat Olson had set-up their backdrop, Santa throne, lights, camera, printer and computer so that they can present those traditional Santa photos to families on the spot. They volunteer their services annually for this very special event.