My email has been blowing up since I arrived at work today (Monday) with statements concerning the shooting incident in Butler, PA yesterday. It is undoubtedly a tragedy, which certainly could have been much worse, if not for the professionalism and alertness of law enforcement.
Rightfully, all the communications are condemning the despicable actions of one man. Senator Manchin provided an opinion this morning that hit the nail on the head as far as I am concerned. While I have not always agreed with the Senator’s actions and opinions, I wholeheartedly side with him on this one. I have had many of these beliefs for some time. but have not shared them, as politics has always been a sensitive subject in our society and more so in recently months and years.
While all parties on a local, state and national level are on the same page condemning the assassination attempt and hollering for our country to come together. It will be interesting to see how much of this is rhetoric or true beliefs. Actions speak louder than words. Like Senator Manchin, I think we have to all spread the word and put the hate behind us… else our country is truly doomed!
Now for the real topic I had hoped to devote this week’s column to… The Braxton County Rotary Club is hosting a blood donation drive on July 24 in memory of one of our charter members, Dave McChesney.
The event is being held in conjunction with the American Red Cross. You will find a front-page article on the subject as well as an advertisement on page 3 of this issue. I would have liked to have had more time to publicize the event, but working with the Red Cross is not easy. This idea came to light over a year ago and we are, just now, ready to conduct the event. A press release, we thought, was coming from the Red Cross was late, but I think our wires got crossed.
At any rate I hope we have a sufficient number register to keep them from canceling the event. As I understand it, we have to have at least 25 registered for the Red Cross not to cancel the event. I hope that doesn’t happen. Blood is very important to the well-being and survival of countless numbers of our families and friends. In addition, we at Rotary, think this is a fitting tribute to a man for helped with literally hundreds of activities and causes before he and his wife relocated to be nearer their children after retirement. If you have problems with registration through the internet, call the number in the ad and article. It is a local person who will be able to assist you. Help us save lives and pay tribute to a great fellow Rotarian! Remember… the need is constant, and the gratification is instant.