Sunday, May 27, 2007

Ferguson Road Initiative honors outgoing Council sponsors Chaney and Griffith and volunteers

By Pegasus News wire

WHITE ROCK HILLS — On May 14, there was a catered reception prior to the Ferguson Road Initiative meeting, with a buffet provided by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Starbucks of Casa Linda, Café Lago, Villas at Ash Creek, and the following neighborhoods: Claremont, Lakeland Hills, White Rock Village, Hillridge, Hillview Terrace, Forest Meade, Forest Oaks.

In special ceremonies, presentations were made to the following VITA Volunteers:

In recognizing VITA volunteers, Kerry Goodwin reported that they had completed over 140 tax returns, totally over $150,000 in refunds, including $46,110 in Earned Income Tax Credits at an average refund of $1,280 per family. Not only were federal returns completed, but also state returns for Louisiana (Katrina evacuees), New York, California and Oklahoma.

Following the VITA presentations, Bill Coleman called Roy Justice to the podium. Roy works for the White Rock Church of Christ as facilities manager. He announced that Roy was retiring and FRI wanted to recognize him for “outstanding service” for all his work over the past 5 years for the community and FRI. Roy has been responsible for helping to provide the space and facilities for the Ferguson Road Initiative Weed & Seed Offices.

Following Mr. Justice’s recognition, Mr. Coleman invited FRI Vice Chair, Susan Walker to the podium. Ms. Walker introduced Dallas City Councilperson Gary Griffith. In citing, Gary’s aggressive work to reduce crime (40% in his district alone), strengthen business climate, introduction of an innovative plan to reduce panhandling and clean up graffiti, Mr. Griffith was awarded the second FRI Award for Outstanding Community Service to the Ferguson Road Initiative and the White Rock Hills community. Gary was also given a scrape book filled with thank you letters from FRI’s many neighborhood partners.

Following Mr. Griffith’s recognition, Mr. Coleman invited FRI Executive Director Vikki Martin to the podium. She introduced Dallas City Councilperson Leo V. Chaney, Jr. Councilman Chaney is one of FRI’s original founding leaders. In citing Mr. Chaney’s long history of support and assistance to FRI and the White Rock Hills community, Ms. Martin presented him with the third FRI Award for Outstanding Community Service. She also presented him with a scrap book of memorabilia and letters from FRI’s partners thanking and recognizing him for his service and support.

Posted by Mike

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