Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Thanks for really caring
News-Leader
Opinion Page
August 27, 2013
Thanks for really caring
Good news is not hard to find in the Ozarks, as we illustrate regularly with an editorial feature we call: ‘Tis a privilege.
’Tis a privilege to celebrate and salute more than 1,700 volunteers who took part in Thursday’s United Way of the Ozarks Day of Caring.
Volunteers from 96 companies and organizations took part in the 21st annual event, providing muscle and energy and creativity to help address needs in Springfield and Greene County, as well as Taney and Polk counties. Volunteers worked on 155 projects for 55 nonprofits.
’Tis a privilege to thank the anonymous donor who answered the prayers of Father Joseph McCormack — providing him with a new scooter to replace one stolen a few days earlier. McCormack, a monk with the Eastern Orthodox Church, relies on the scooter to visit hospitals and convalescent homes, delivering quilts for the Healing Quilt Project of the Ozarks. After a story was published Aug. 17, several community members responded and one from Aurora provided the replacement.
’Tis a privilege to encourage walkers everywhere, and to thank our local hospitals, Mercy and CoxHealth, on the joint effort to create the Medical Mile Trail between the two hospitals. The 5.6 mile walking path, including side trails, was dedicated Saturday. Walking is one of the easiest and best forms of exercise. See you on the trail!
’Tis a privilege to acknowledge David Burton for his oneman effort to keep alive the memories of one-room schools in Greene County and the Ozarks. Burton, communication specialist with the University of Missouri Extension-Greene County, has written two books on the subject. One is a history of local schools and the other is driving tour — perfect for a Labor Day weekend road trip.
’Tis a privilege to thank Springfield firefighters for putting their lives on the line every day — but also for the extra efforts they make to help keep our community safe. Firefighters will soon begin annual visits to schools, teaching fire safety tips to more than 4,000 children. As a bonus, every child will get a pack of crayons and an activity book to complete at home, including a home escape plan. Books were donated by courtesy of Paragon Architecture and the Sertoma Club.
’Tis a privilege to remember Paul Nahon, a former Glendale High tennis champion who was admired by many as a role model for his passion for life, as well as academic and other accomplishments. Nahon was remembered Saturday at memorial services. He died Aug. 15 after a 150-foot fall while attempting to climb Longs Peak in Colorado.
