Thank you, thank you, thank you to all of the wonderful families who came to our Awards Ceremony at the Garland Goes Green Festival on April 19^th.  We had a fabulous turnout.  The kids looked stunning.  There were 84 entries that progressed to the State competition.  Certificates were handed out.  Half-Price Books donated eco-bags to each of our students.  We had pictures galore.  The Garland News took many pictures and posted them on www.thegarlandnews.com.  The Garland News also asked for a list of our winners to publish in the paper.  There were four Public Service Announcements (PSAs) which advanced to State.  Those students all performed their PSAs on stage.  What a treat! 

The Mayor followed our Award Ceremony and reminded us that we must “go green” and take care of our planet, not just for ourselves, but particularly for the coming generations.  The Mayor requested the kids onstage for a joint picture with him.

The day was beautiful although there were strong winds.  All activity was around the park.  We had a booth displaying photocopies of the award winning entries (when the wind did not knock them down).  The Council manned the booth with great enthusiasm.  The stage had a full day of entertainment.  The Rowlett Environmental Club performed a recycling play.  There were excellent speakers in one of the buildings.  I took the opportunity to hear Gary Olp, the green architect.  He was superb.

By the time you read this, the State Awards will be posted.  I shall contact your school’s Environmental Chairman with the results.

The number of Green Festivals around the metroplex was amazing.  We are beginning to wake up.  Live Green in Plano had 10,000-12,000 people.  Still, of all the festivals I attended as a volunteer or working a booth, Garland’s was my favorite. That was due to the kids, your support, and all of the wonderful people I knew.

I look forward to the PTA luncheon, Summer Seminar, and the coming year.  I want to encourage you to appoint an Environmental Chairman for next year.  Summer Seminar in Austin will have environmental workshops every session.  Yes, they are all different.  I invite you to join me.  If you are interested, please let me know.  It will be fabulous.  Austin is fabulous, and we’ll have lunch together on Sixth Street among other get-togethers.  Reserve the date July 25-27.

THIS IS BIG.  A single-stream recycling facility is opening in Garland.  PTA has been invited to tour.  The tour will be at 10am on Thursday, May 8^th.  If you are interested, please write or call me.  It will be enlightening & state-of-the-art.  Please come and RSVP.

Many thanks,

Roxanne