Town employees help to put up a sign for one of the dozens of Rotary Fairs that have been held in the town of Garland.
Courtesy photo
The event, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 2, is one that a number of Garland residents look forward to each year.
Kristie Kersey, the deputy clerk for the town, stated in an interview that the Rotary Fair and Parade tends to bring out lots of people.
“It brings outsiders to our town, and it is one time that Garland gets recognized,” said Kersey, also pointing out that it boosts the local economy through an increase in business.
Sandy Norris, president of the Garland Rotary Club, is excited about the new events that are in store this year. One is the cornhole tournament, which Norris stressed, was added to the list because so many people had shown an interest in starting one this year.
As in previous years, the event, which helps fund the Garland Rotary Club’s various projects, has lots in store, including a parade, music and entertainment for all ages.
In the past, the parade included clowns, floats, horses, beauty queens, old cars, etc.
The event is also anticipating a number of businesses and organizations that will help set up vendor booths for the sale of arts and crafts.
For some of the youngsters attending the Rotary Fair, there is also a plan to have some rides for children and a bounce house.
And, of course, there will be food to tantalize the taste buds of those taking part in the Rotary Fair and Parade. Funnel cakes and corn-on-the cob, among other food favorites, will be available.
“Everything you could want to eat will be here,” said Norris.
Also, as in years past, the Garland Fire Department will sell barbecue plates during lunch.
Norris stated that the theme for the Rotary Fair has always been a salute to the military, and this year, the tradition will continue with a memorial service at 9:30 a.m., prior to the parade.
In addition, all veterans will be invited to stand on one of the floats during the parade.
Norris is also interested in inviting all area queens to take part in the parade as well.
In total she is expecting as many as 2,500 to come down to Garland and participate in the fun and festivities, roughly the same number who came down to Garland last year for the fair.
If the day’s events prove successful, the Garland Rotary Club will be able to raise funds for some of the various organizations they support, including some scholarships for local high school seniors and the beautification of the small municipality.
Those interested in helping the Garland Rotary Fair event, can call Norris at 529-5371.
Katie Holland can be reached at 910-592-8137, ext. 136, or by e-mail at silife@heartlandpublications.com.
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