For several weeks we have seen our community unite to honor fallen Southport Police Lt. Aaron Allen and work to make sure that his family is cared for.
Last week Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on everyone and everything in its path.
I remember years back having to travel to an area that was destroyed by a hurricane. I was in that area for a week while training a new employee of the company I was working for. It’s something I’ll never forget.
It is so special to see the outpouring of help that is coming from all parts of the country to assist those affected by Harvey. Central Indiana is working full steam to assist folks living in shelters and all who need help. I saw that local television and radio stations and print media and teaming to promote “HHH” – Hoosiers Helping Houston.
Last week I saw on television that Shirley Weaver, a resident of Forest Creek Village, an assisted living community, viewed a report about folks in a Houston nursing home sitting in several feet of water while awaiting help. Shirley talked with staff members of her facility and came up with a plan for a fundraiser.
On Aug. 31 they served a $5 lunch that was available to the public. All of the proceeds are going to help eastern Texas nursing communities. My wife, Lyn, and I drove over for lunch. We put our money in a clear jug and visited with a couple of the staff members.
I had a short conversation with Colette Campbell. She works with the press and media promoting events at the facility. She was great about explaining how this event was coordinated. Lyn and I then got our lunch. We sat at a table outside, where Travis Frank was singing and playing his guitar. We really enjoyed his music and are looking forward to seeing him again. WRTV Channel 6 was taping a segment for its news.
I learned that Execudine Corporate Catering provided the lunch and absorbed a large portion of the cost.
The next day I stopped by to talk with Colette and see how the fundraiser went. She told me that it was a real success. They exceeded the number of lunches they planned to sell. Lots of folks just stopped in to donate.
Lyn and I got to say hello to one of the residents who I have known for many years. I also know a couple of family members of residents in the facility.
We learned that once a month animals can visit the center. I introduced Stuart, our therapy dog, to Colette, and she promised to let us know about the next animal day.
Shonk is a 1960 graduate of Southport High School, a ’63 grad of Indiana Central College (now the University of Indianapolis) and a retired bus driver from Beech Grove Schools.