Gala Honoring Fallen Arlington Officer to Raise Money for Scholarships
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Posted on June 19, 2014, June 19, 2014

Memory of Officer Jillian M. Smith

The fourth annual charity gala to raise scholarship funds in memory of fallen Arlington police officer Jillian M. Smith will take place June 27 at Cacharel Restaurant and Grand Ballroom.

Officer Smith was killed in the line of duty by gunfire during a domestic disturbance call in December 2010.

"We host this gala in honor of fallen Officer Jillian M. Smith, because she possessed the same values we hold which, include a passion for education, belief in strong family foundations and uplifting the community," said President of the African American Peace Officers Association of Arlington Sgt. Jakisha Jones.

The casino-style event hosted by the African American Peace Officers Association of Arlington will consist of music, a dinner buffet, a cash bar, and casino games and prizes. Players will have the opportunity to win a four day cruise, spa packages, Cowboy game party packages and the grand prize of Dallas Cowboys suite tickets.

Proceeds from the charity gala go towards scholarships for graduating Arlington seniors interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. The winning students were required to have a good grade point average, fully complete an application for the scholarship, submit an essay, and demonstrate the ability to balance school and community service.

This year's first place recipient of $2,500 is Yahaira Morales Castro from Bowie High, second place recipient of $1,500 is Lacara B. Rogers from Seguin High, and third place recipient of $1,000 is Anton D. Clark from Seguin High. The students were awarded their scholarships at the June 12 Arlington Independent School District Board Meeting.

"We want everyone to honor Officer Smith's sacrifice by attending the Gala or being a sponsor or donor," Jones said. "Donations will greatly benefit a deserving student, further their education and become a positive force within the communication, as Jillian was."

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