Carol's Column - THE EXTRA MILERS   (Articles below Starfish Story)

EXTRAMILERS:  Recepient of National Society of Newspaper Columnist's

Will Rogers' Humanitarian Award 2008

Ellen Goodman, Lifetime Achievement Award and James Rogers, Will Rogers' Great Grandson, who presented the Will Rogers' Humanitarian Award in June 2008 (New Orleans Conference of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists).  http://www.columnists.com (click on link to Will Rogers' Humanitarian Award)

At the National Society of Newspaper Columnists’ (NSNC) annual conference in New Orleans, Carol Dawson, a local writer for The Evening News (Jeffersonville, Indiana) and New Albany Tribune (New Albany, Indiana), was presented the Will Rogers’ Humanitarian Award by James Rogers, Will Rogers’ Great Grandson.  Read articles and more about the award by selecting the link (to the right):  Extra Milers. 

The award is presented annually by the NSNC to a columnist whose sustained work in civic journalism produces tangible benefits for the community

Dawson was presented with a bronze statuette of Will Rogers, a farsighted philosopher-humorist of the 1920s and ‘30s, who used his forum as a commentator for humanitarian purposes.   

Dawson originated her column to recognize individuals who “go the extra mile” and who do not seek or typically receive public credit for their deeds. During the past four years, her column has featured more than 150 persons in Southern Indiana and beyond.

In her nomination, Cindy Kanning wrote, “Carol’s columns are diverse, featuring all ages, races and ethnicities, individuals with disabilities, military troops overseas, and even animals (therapy dogs).”  She continued, “Carol writes to make a difference.” 

Robert Haught, the NSNC award coordinator, described Dawson, “She has generated any number of humanitarian endeavors, but more than that, she came up with a creative idea to call attention to many citizens who are helping others in various ways.” 

Steve Kozarovich, Executive Editor for the News and Tribune wrote about Dawson’s columns, “Her columns are truly a compelling read that leave you with examples of the goodness that takes place in our community everyday.  By highlighting these Extra Milers, she almost certainly makes our communities a better place through inspiration and example.” 

Do something to make a difference in another person’s life!

Once upon a time there was a wise man that used to go to the ocean to do his writing. One day he

was walking along the shore. As he looked down the beach, he saw a human figure moving like

a dancer. He smiled to himself to think of someone dancing on the beach. So he began to walk

faster to catch up with this person. As he got closer he saw that it was a young woman and she

wasn’t dancing, but instead she was reaching down to the shore, picking up something and very

gently throwing it into the ocean. As he got even closer, he called out, “Good Morning, what are

you doing?” The young woman paused, looked up and replied, “Throwing starfish back into the

ocean.” He asked, “Why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?” She replied, “The sun is up

and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back in, they will die.” The man was intrigued and

stated, “But, young lady, don’t you realize that there are miles and miles of beach and starfish are

all along it. You can’t possibly make a difference!” She listened politely. Then bent down, picked

up another starfish and threw it back into the sea, past the breaking waves and said, “It made a

difference for that one.” We all have the ability to MAKE A DIFFERENCE

.      Author Unknown

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THE EXTRA MILERS® is a monthly newspaper column written about Southern Indiana people who go the EXTRA MILE to make a positive difference. I hope you enjoy some of the articles about these special people.  My favorite (and most personal) Extra Miler columns will always be featured at the top (just below the most current column).

Current Extra Miler Column:

Congratulations Extra Miler(s) and thanks for making a positive difference.

THE EXTRA MILERS - Column Number 52- January 3, 2009

Wooldridge and TMSi

Seated First Row Left to Right, Jim Pasierbowicz, Beverly Lewis, Ronald Kohan, Damon Rowe, Second Row Left to Right, Richard Peach, Gary Carroll, Robert Wooldridge, Steve Mitchell, Necolle Banks, Brandon Feeler, Nathan Burt.  Absent from the photo was Clayton Cagle, Sheniquia Bell, John Bigelow, Sonya Staten, Terry Bale (GE Industrial), and Jamie Herman (GE Industrial).

The Extra Milers

By: Carol A. Dawson

Happy New Year 2009 Southern Indiana! 

Danny Thomas once said, “All of us are born for a reason, but all of us don’t discover why.  Success has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself.  It’s what you do for others.” Let Mr. Thomas’ words drift into your thoughts for just a moment. 

A random act of kindness should not be accomplished for personal benefit; however, there is truly no way around it.  Immediately upon performing an act of kindness, there is a surge of beta endorphins and human growth hormone within the body which causes a significant neuroendocrine effect.

Simply put, your happy hormones have a party.  Therefore, even when we try to not personally benefit from our good deeds, we still do…by osmosis.

Southern Indiana is unique in that we have an inordinate number of people who are prone to both deliberate and spontaneous acts of kindness.  Let’s make 2009 special by kicking off a year-long effort to show the nation that we have the goods to “git er’ done.” 

February 9 – 15 is recognized across the country as Random Acts of Kindness Week.  The News-Tribune would like Southern Indiana to take the lead in creating and delivering acts of compassion and thoughtfulness.

Tell us about your acts of kindness, random or planned.  Also, report an act of kindness bestowed upon you. The Evening News/New Albany tribune web site will record our journey through 2009.  Submissions may be emailed to: Extra.Milers@newsandtribune.com. or mail: THE EXTRA MILERS, The Evening News, 221 Spring Street Jeffersonville, IN  47130-3340. 

Kicking off 2009, let me introduce our Extra Milers for January.  The employees who work for TMSi Facility #5100 in Jeffersonville are special Extra Milers to a five year old boy in Boise, Idaho named Joseph Tacke and his mother, Suzanne Harding. 

I recently received an Idaho Statesman newspaper clipping from a high school friend.  She included this note, “Well, even people in Boise are now learning about the kindness of folks in Jeffersonville.”  The article heading: “Frankie’s Big Adventure:  A Boise Boy’s Stuffed Monkey Got Shipped To Indiana By Mistake, And Wow, What A Time He Had.” 

Apparently Joseph Tacke had been playing with his best buddy, a stuffed monkey named Frankie and some large boxes.  Joseph inadvertently left Frankie in one of the boxes, which was then picked up by FedEx later in the day, mistaken for a box of GE parts that were to go back to the warehouse.  

Joseph was devastated and his mother began frantically calling and searching for the monkey.  Frankie’s adventure took him through several states, ultimately landing in Jeffersonville’s GE TMSi Facility #1500, a distribution and processing center.  

Upon hearing the container might be in his facility, TMSi’s facility manager, Robert Wooldridge, put out an All Points Bulletin (well, sort of) that the box with the stuffed animal was to be found that day, no matter the time or effort required.  Wooldridge explained, “It wasn’t an easy task – up to a half million packages come through our building each day.” 

It took about three hours to find Frankie and he was air-shipped to Joseph that afternoon.  Wooldridge explained, “We wanted Joseph to have his monkey back the next day, but not before personalizing the visit to Jeffersonville.”  

Frankie (given the nickname “Boss”) was posed operating a forklift and also sitting behind a desk with a cup of coffee.  Photographs were taken and Wooldridge wrote a story about Frankie’s adventure and the day he spent helping out at TMSi.  Included with Frankie’s shipment were hats, a flashlight, and a night light. 

Wooldridge explained, “The extra effort for Joseph helped us also…it gave us a nice break from the normal routine of the day.”  Wooldridge added, “Many of us have young children and we understood how upset Joseph must have been when he realized his stuffed monkey was lost.”

Wooldridge is embarrassed about the attention this story has been given and true to Extra Miler form, he emphasized that he did not act alone, “The employees who worked to find Joseph’s monkey did nothing out of the ordinary…servant leadership is just one of seven values of our company.”  Going the extra mile is instinctive for the employees of TMSi Facility #5100 and Southern Indiana (and a little boy in Boise) is grateful.   

Kindness Tip of the Month:  Make plans to be part of the Random (or premeditated) Acts of Kindness Week – February 9-15, 2009.  Involve your family, school, office, neighbors and friends.  Be creative – be bold – and go that extra mile in 2009.

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The next two Extra Milers, Jay and Joni, are no longer with us, but they will live forever in the hearts of those they touched with their spirit of love.  

with admiration and love, 

Carol

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THE EXTRA MILERS  -Column #20- LOVING FRIEND, Jay Crutcher - In Memory
By Carol Dawson

We were put on this planet to care for one another and that is what I try to do.
Jay Crutcher

Jay (Jay-bird) Crutcher came into my life one year ago this month while featuring him as one of our Extra Milers. He invited me into his life with his arms wide open in loving friendship, often using the phrase, “You mean the world to me.” Early in our friendship, I often wondered how I could mean the world to someone who knew me for such a short time. In the following months Jay provided the answer.

With a broken heart, I tell you Jay Crutcher passed away last week after an aneurysm destroyed all brain activity. Jay lived in Louisville and was the first non-Southern Indiana resident Extra Miler. I couldn’t resist…he was a classic do-gooder. Jay lived life serving others, despite having the very debilitating disease, Osteo Imperfecta (OI). He believed walking is over-rated, instead believing the heart and mind should be the focal points in our lives.

Jay was at church when his body failed him one last time. He soon went into a coma and never came out. I stood by Jay’s bed in intensive care, talking to his father, Jack Crutcher, and grandmother, Aileen Crutcher, about the times life failed him and the times he was the happiest. As we watched Jay’s unresponsive body, Jack, a soft spoken man, began talking about organ donation. My eyes rose to see the anguish of this loving father. Still, it was obvious that he realized something good could come of this tragic loss. Jay would have been proud to know he saved the lives of several people through his death. It seems a bit ironic really…that this young man who very much wanted to be feel needed … concluded his life by giving the hope of new life to people he had never met.

To each person given life or sight through Jay’s organ and cornea donations, may his body give you strength and dignity. To the person who received Jay’s heart – you are the most blessed of all – for his small body held one of the largest hearts imaginable. Jay’s capacity to love was limitless. Truly there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to make another person feel happy and safe.

Jay often felt he was not enough…enough of a friend…enough of a student…enough of a musician…enough of a regular-guy. His body limited participation in high school activities and he often felt ostracized from peers. Still, his family speaks little of the times when Jay’s heart was broken by uncaring or unknowing individuals but more of his celebration of life. Jay sought friends who would care about and love him unconditionally. He offered absolute love and friendship in return.

His relationships in Southern Indiana began as Jay became intrigued with the thought that stronger muscles might provide the support he needed for fragile bones (he quit counting at 200 breaks). Angie Maxwell (and her Jazzercise instructors) became his trainers and friends. Jay felt immediate inclusion. Each week, he took a Tarc van to his physical exercise class, quickly becoming part of Angie’s family. Angie nominated Jay as an Extra Miler.

Jay and I quickly became friends. A few months ago Jay began asking about my church affiliation and soon he was attending First Christian Church (FCC) with my family. Within a few weeks, he joined FCC and soon thereafter Jay was baptized. He was embraced by the FCC community and his joy was evident.

In Southern Indiana, Jay found the inclusion he was looking for his entire life…he found unconditional love. As I reflect upon the words unconditional love, I realize that I failed to verbally express how much Jay’s friendship truly meant to me. Because I failed to do this adequately while he was alive, it is with a heavy heart and many tears of sorrow that I do so now.

Jay, I love you for the kindness you gave to this world. I love you for your ability to forgive all of life’s failures. I love you for teaching me that we all have more to give…even when we think we have given enough. I love you for the joy you gave to those around you. I love you for enduring the pain of feeling excluded from so much of life and yet remaining a positive influence and tremendous inspiration. Jay-bird Crutcher, your friendship truly meant the world to me. Now I understand.

Kindness Tip of the Month: If there is a friend in your life who you value and love, let them know. It has been said that truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget. When you find that truly great friend, let him or her know they will always be in your heart.

Carol A. Dawson is a resident of Jeffersonville and owner of EEO GUIDANCE, Inc . If you have seen or been a part of an act of kindness or know an EXTRA MILER, let us know about it. To submit a story or act of kindness, contact Carol via email: Extra.Milers@newsandtribune.com or send mail to: THE EXTRA MILERS, The Evening News, Attn: Carol Dawson, 221 Spring Street Jeffersonville, IN 47130-3340.

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THE EXTRA MILERS - Column #14

Carol A. Dawson

DANCING WITH JONI STOCKDALE (in memory)

“To touch the soul of another human being is to walk on holy ground.” Covey, Stephen

She had just won a gold medal for her bowling in the Special Olympics and as her father pushed her wheelchair down the church isle, the minister and congregation expressed their admiration. That Sunday several years ago was my first time to meet Joni. She was born in 1966 to Virgil and Judy Stockdale and for the next 39 years they loved and cared for their beautiful daughter.

What Joni Stockdale’s body couldn’t provide, her mind did. Cerebral Palsy restricted Joni’s movement and often made it difficult for her to verbalize her thoughts. However, when you spoke to Joni there was no doubting her joy in communication. She expressed herself best through her smile. Joni’s face popping smile and personality easily pulled friends into her life. She enjoyed teasing and laughter as much as anyone I have ever known. She was a remarkable young woman.

With great sadness, I tell you that Joni passed away in her sleep this past week. At her funeral, her pastor, Reverend Bruce Barkhauer noted, “Joni shared a special joy with everyone who knew her. Bill Scott used to greet her by gently kicking her chair to get her attention. Her Uncle Frank Applegate used to rub her head for good luck. She found such happiness in these and so many other similar relationships.” After dressing for church in the same colors several weeks in a row, Joni and I began teasing that we had a mental connection. Ironically, after noting our color connection, we never matched our colors again. Our personal joke grew from there and I found myself drawn to her each week. Relationships are what gives us depth and meaning to our lives, and Joni Stockdale had both depth and meaning in her life. Her closest relationships were with her family – those who never considered loving or caring for her to be a burden; instead, finding Joni to be their inspiration.

When Joni was born, the doctors stated she would probably not live past adolescence; however, she and her family would not hear of it. Joni had special wishes and desires for her future. Every birthday and Christmas she told her family of her wish to be able to walk. Joni Stockdale may not have been granted her wish during her time with us, but wishes and prayers are often answered in ways we may not be able to see or fully understand. Reverend Barkhauer said, “Those of us who knew and loved Joni, know that Joni is not just walking, but she is dancing.” Joni is surely singing clearly and dancing with eagle’s wings. Her human connectedness was always in her relationships in the lives of those around her – relationships that were most precious and holy. For giving so freely of herself and her love, Joni was an Extra Miler.

Joni’s family was named the Special Olympics Clark County Family of the Year and Region 11 Family of the Year. They hope to travel later this year to Indianapolis to be considered as the Special Olympics Family of the Year for Indiana . I cannot imagine a family more deserving of this honor. Albeit bittersweet, this would be a most fitting honor for the Stockdale family. Several months ago, I spoke to Virgil Stockdale about interviewing him to feature his family as Extra Milers. He was clearly baffled by my offer and after thinking about it briefly he said that he wasn’t sure why I would consider his family to be anything extraordinary. He promptly provided the name of another couple he thought would be better suited for the honor. Extraordinary indeed…when many families would have given up – the Stockdales persevered, when many would have been drained from the emotional and physical toll – the Stockdales found strength, and when many would have found sadness, the Stockdale’s found joy and love. For giving so freely of yourselves not only to Joni, but to others as well, Virgil, Judy, and family…never doubt the fact that you are truly extraordinary Extra Milers. Thank you for being role models for unconditional love.

Kindness Tip of the Month:

Contact any of your local organizations who work with individuals with disabilities. Ask them what you can do to help. Anyone can spare at least one or two days a year to volunteer. When you do, take along your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews to help. You will be giving them a special gift by allowing them to see first hand how we are all have the same heart, each with something special to offer others. While there are many worthy organizations, listed below are a couple of agencies to get you started:

Special Olympics Indiana

6100 West 96 th Street, Suite 27D

Indianapolis , IN 46278

Ph: 317-328-2000 or 1-800-742-0612

Email: information@soindiana.org

Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services
1452 Vaxter Avenue
P. O. Box 2517
Clarksville , IN 47131-2517
812-288-8261
Toll Free: 1-877-228-1967
Voice/TDD: 812-288-8261

RECENT COLUMNS

THE EXTRA MILERS - Column Number 51 - December 6, 2008

By Carol Dawson

Afghanistan Liaison Officers stationed at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan (L-R) SFC Frison, Col. Baker, MAJ Hanson, LTC Rodgers and LTC L'Hommedieu.

______________________________Extra Milers for December 2008 - Thank You!

THE EXTRA MILERS - Column Number 51- December 6, 2008

Our Troops and Veterans 

PART I

Southern Indiana, we did it again!  We contributed over two thousand cards to be distributed to the men and women serving in our military overseas (via Lt. Governor Skillman’s Hoosier Cheer for our Heroes campaign). 

Most of the cards were collected from our schools and as I waited for the pickup from the Lt. Governor’s office staff, Molly Fausset and Angela Coats, I began reading several of those cards.  By the time Molly and Angela came to the door, I was holding a handful of brightly decorated cards – smiling and wiping away tears. 

Enjoy these words from of our children’s hearts. 

Merry Christmas to you soldier! Did you already read my sister Lindsey’s letter?  She sent it to you last week.  From Choe

I wish you could come home soon.  Thank you for protected me. I wish you would not get hurt.  When I am hurt, I try not to cry.  Grace

Thank you for serving our country.  You are doing a great job.  Come home to your family soon.  People are missing you in Indiana and America so we are sending letters and cards to help.  Austyn

Thank you for serving our country and being strong.  I hope you stay safe and come home careful.  You are doing an awesome job!  Write me back.   Devon

Thank you for fighting for our country to save our country every day.  Please come back to your family to have a Merry Christmas.  You are very nice to save us and you got a big job and people miss you every day.  Kim A.

Dear Soldier, This is your second card.  We missed you last year and miss you this year even more.  Merry Christmas.  Abby

Abby is right, we continue to miss our family members and friends who are serving in the military overseas. 

The United States has been the primary force in the fight against terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan since March 2003.  I have not been an avid supporter of the war.  Much of my opinion has been based upon limited newspaper knowledge of the invasion details.  However, I do not mince words when I describe my absolute support for the military men and women who offer their lives every day to accomplish the goals of our country.   

My older brother, Army Colonel Allen Baker, recently retired at 54 years old and was put back into regular duty the next day…he then volunteered for a one year tour of duty in Afghanistan.  Allen has much more than newspaper knowledge of this war and I asked him to share his thoughts with Southern Indiana.  Not unlike his younger sis, Allen expresses himself in a rather lengthy manner.  This is an excerpt from Allen’s response to our military mission in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Part II of the response will be found in the Sunday edition of this newspaper. 

God knows I love wearing this uniform and serving with the courageous men and women of this great Nation.

I have two cards written by students from an unknown school on my wall to remind me how special it is to be from a Nation of people who care not only for their own good but for the greater good of others less fortunate.  These two young people summed up why I continue to wear the uniform of a United States Soldier - "Dear Soldier, may God give you great courage ... thank you for your sacrifice and may God so bless you ... love from Home - Angela" ... and another wrote, "What it means: 1. Pride 2. Strength 3. Love 4. Freedom ... thank you ... let freedom ring ... last command - COME HOME SAFE ... Love, Jennifer W."  Can't help but get a little misty eyed when I think about these enlightened young people. 

My hope is that we will stay the course in Afghanistan - that we will continue to have the courage to see this through to the end.  That someday, when our grandchildren visit Afghanistan as tourist, they might visit a school where the children are told stories about the brave men and women from America who years ago had the wisdom and courage to sacrifice all to give them an opportunity at a better life. 

I thank God every day for my life, my daughters and family, and for being born an American – warts and all.  I had breakfast with a gentleman the other day.  I asked him where he was from and he said he was born in Afghanistan but immigrated to the United States when he was a boy.  What struck me most was what he proudly said next, "I am an American CITIZEN.”  He didn’t say he was an American, he didn’t say he was an Afghan American; he said he was an American citizen.  He said it with all the pride and commitment he has for a country he believes in.

For many years, we have been the envy of the world and I believe we are the last best hope of this world.  We are now called upon to earn such titles.  

This Extra Miler column (and Part II found in the newspaper tomorrow - Sunday edition), is dedicated to Allen, along with my younger brother, Col. Thomas Baker (who continues to make trips to the Iraq and Afghanistan), the Extra Milers who have served and are serving in the military, and the families who faithfully support them.  Be sure to look for Allen’s remaining comments about the conflict in Iraq/Afghanistan tomorrow.     

Kindness Tip of the Month:  Over 186,000 US troops will be serving in Afghanistan and Iraq this holiday season.  If you were not able to get your cards or letters in with the Lt. Governor’s shipment, consider sending your sentiments and support to these sources:

AMillionThanks.org:   Go to:   http://amillionthanks.org/

Military.com:   http://www.military.com/benefits/resources/support-our-troops

Military Exchange Calling Cards:  https://thor.aafes.com/scs/default.aspx

American Red Cross:  http://www.redcross.org/email/saf/

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Southern Indiana - you continue to make me proud. 

PART II

This is Part II to the Extra Miler column posted yesterday.  If you missed Part I, it can be found on the web site at:  http://news-tribune.net 

Col. Allen S. Baker, my brother, is serving in Afghanistan.  In honoring our military as Extra Milers, I recently asked him to provide his opinion of the conflict in Afghanistan and this is part of his response.

It’s so easy to be crass and arrogant in a Nation with our wealth.  It’s easy to say if others want a better life they should take matters into their own hands and just do it ... that it’s not our responsibility to fight for others less fortunate ... that we have enough problems of our own to be worried about the rest of the world.

While there is some truth in those words there is another way to look at our role as a great Nation.  Maybe, just maybe we should all look at our history and realize how lucky we are to be in the position we are in – born as citizens to the prosperous, most free Nation in the world - to understand that we are extremely lucky to have experienced a revolution like no other in history - to understand that our American Revolution succeeded where history tells us most revolutions fail.

Tom Brokaw had it almost right in his book, "America's Greatest Generation.”  I submit that our parent’s generation was the second greatest generation - not the first.  The greatest generation most certainly was our founding fathers.  It was the founding fathers who made our revolution work where all others failed. 

What we never talk about when discussing foreign policy and the cost of helping other countries is just how we came to be the greatest Nation (in history) ever conceived by man. 

B.J. Lossing wrote in 1848, "... an ignorant, untaught mass, like those who have formed the physical elements of other revolutionary movements, without sufficient intellect to guide and control them - could not have conceived, planned and carried into execution, such a mighty movement, one so fraught with tangible marks of political wisdom, as the American Revolution.  And it is a matter of just pride to the American people that not one of that noble band who periled life, fortune and honor in the cause of freedom, ever fell from his high estate into moral degradation or dimmed by word or deed the brightness of that effulgence which halos the Declaration of Independence.”

Bottom line, there is only one reason we enjoy the enriched lives we all have - we were blessed that our founding fathers had it all together.  That, and that alone, is the reason the American Revolution was successful.  I and my children are the lucky recipients of the founding fathers courage and wisdom - risking all for nothing more than an idea of a better world and a better Nation.  Something no Nation has or will ever have – a generation of people who believed in an idea and sacrificed all to see it become reality. 

So, these are our questions:  Should we stay the course and get it right in Afghanistan?  Is it our destiny to make the world a little bit better while also ensuring we continue to nurture our own freedoms and way of life?  Is our commitment in Afghanistan and other similar countries our way to pay back the founding fathers for their willingness to sacrifice everything (to include their most precious possessions – their families) so that future generations might enjoy freedom?  I hope so … I hope we have the same courage our founding fathers had and to (as the young girl put in the card) let freedom ring.  

I would be willing to bet that even the poorest and least fortunate American, given a chance to come here and witness the abject poverty of the Afghan people, would leave feeling better about their lot in life.  The Afghan people do not have the wisdom of our founding fathers; therefore, do we step in and play that part for them?  I would hope it becomes our destiny to be the conduit that helps them produce their own founding fathers.

I hope we stay the course.  I believe it is our destiny to make the world better while also continuing to make our own destiny the shining beacon of hope for the rest of the world to emulate.

For many years, we have been the envy of the world and I believe we are the last best hope of this world.  We are now called upon to earn such titles.  

Thanks to Allen and all of the military who have served our country and to those who are serving today.  Merry Christmas and keep your head down. 

Carol Baker Dawson

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THE EXTRA MILERS - Column Number 50 - November 1, 2008

Lorie Nevils

“I feel the capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.”  Pablo Casals

Brittle leaves crushed as I walked the neighborhood with my two dogs.  The Cattledog mix reared her head to watch a wedge of honking geese flying in their “V” formation pass overhead.  I stopped and watched them glide across the sky, realizing my beloved summer was over.  

Several seconds later, there came a loud shout. There was a lone bird struggling to catch up to the others.  I wondered if the stressed goose would eventually catch up or would it be abandoned.  I thought about our Extra Miler this month, Lorie Nevils.  Lorie doesn’t like for anyone (people or animals) to be left behind or forsaken.  She cares about the underdog and will quickly drop back to be sure no one is forsaken.     

The first time I met Lorie Nevils, she was working in the kitchen of First Christian Church, organizing a meal for the congregation to raise money to fund the Clothe-A-Child project and Christmas baskets of food for those in need.  She was much like the conductor of an orchestra – waving her arms as she provided instruction and guidance to ensure the line moved quickly and everyone was well fed.  She was confident in her task and it was obvious that she placed considerable emphasis on having everything organized and everyone accommodated. 

Lorie is a straight talking woman with the motto, “When you know me, you know what you see is what you get…no surprises.”  I liked her immediately.

Lorie is a care-giver, plain and simple.  If you are hungry, she will feed you.  She will not ask questions because she doesn’t care why you are hungry – she only cares that you are. If you are weary or stressed, she will offer you a place to sit and talk. 

On the day the lights went out in Southern Indiana (after our recent storm), the American Red Cross (ARC) called First Christian Church (FCC) for help.  They needed a shelter for individuals without electricity who needed a safe place to sleep.  Many FCC members contributed to ensuring the needs of these individuals were met, including three meals a day.  There were so many who volunteered as part of the Kitchen/Celebrations Ministry Team that Lorie couldn’t list them for fear of missing someone; however, she emphasized that they were the real Extra Milers…not her. 

Typical of being an Extra Miler herself, Lorie states, “I absolutely don’t do anything exceptional…I just enjoy feeding hungry people and I couldn’t do it without all the volunteers.”   

Despite the fact that Lorie had just been released from the hospital from severe abdominal pains when the ARC sent their SOS, Lorie and her team assessed the food in the pantry and freezer and purchased whatever was needed to feed and care for the temporary residents. 

The ARC Executive Director, Phyllis Wilkins, was extremely grateful, “I cannot say enough good things about the members of First Christian – they have rolled out the welcome mat for the community with such graciousness and love, it’s overwhelming to witness.” 

Phyllis added, “On the first evening after the storm, there were 44 people enjoying a home-cooked meal of shrimp cocktail, chicken casserole, green beans, homemade desserts, even flowers on the tables, thanks to Lorie, Melana (Fischer), Amanda (Wagoner) and a number of other volunteers! The camaraderie was contagious, very upbeat.” 

When the ARC no longer needed the church as an overnight shelter, Lorie took stock of the situation in her community.  She knew there were thousands still without electricity, with no way to cook a hot meal or even keep food cold.  Our Extra Miler didn’t dawdle; people were hungry – she knew this – so the decision was made, with church approval, to continue cooking until there was no longer a need.   In the next four days, Lorie’s FCC team fed over 1,100 Southern Indiana residents at no cost to them or the community.  Donations of food and money miraculously flowed in to cover the majority of the expenses for the meals.   

Sonya Hedge, Lorie’s sister-in-law , summed Lorie up very well, “Lorie is happiest when her driveway and house is full and when she is giving or doing for others…her purpose in life is to care for people (or animals) in need, expecting absolutely nothing in return.”   She adds, “I’ve seen her give to others even when it meant doing without herself.”  

Without fanfare, without bells or whistles, or even a honking goose that is lagging behind, Lorie Nevils makes caring an everyday simple activity.   Thank you, Lorie Nevils, for being generous with your love, your life, and your talents.  You are truly a Southern Indiana Extra Miler.  Hope you are feeling well soon.   

Kindness Tip of the Month

“If you want to eliminate hunger, everybody has to be involved.”  Bono 
Lorie’s Tip is for those of you who are Extra Milers…don’t hesitate to ask others to help.  Many people wait in the wings for their chance to step forward and provide assistance on community and church activities and events – they just need a little push or invitation to step forward. 

THE EXTRA MILERS - Column Number 49- October 4, 2008

Berniece Nicholson

By: Carol A. Dawson

She sat quietly in the waiting room of the Personal Counseling Service (PCS); however, she wasn’t there for counseling.  Berniece Nicholson was there to have lunch with the Executive Director, Doug Drake.  Unbeknownst to her, the visit included special recognition as our Southern Indiana Extra Miler for October.

Some people dream of creating something significant that will positively affect the lives of others.  Berniece Nicholson isn’t one of those people.  She believes dreams are simply down time unless action is taken to make the dream a reality. 

In the late 1950s, Berniece, along with Bea Baxter and Mary Vawter, came together to create a counseling service facility in Southern Indiana where all citizens could be provided care.  These women came from three churches, with Berniece representing Howard Park Christian Church.  The ladies joined together with several local ministers who had indicated they felt ill equipped to handle some of the mental concerns of their congregations, especially from teenagers and young adults.   

Berniece recalls initial meetings to discuss the project.  She said, “We envisioned this facility would be open to rich or poor, all races, young or old, and all backgrounds.”  Berniece initially found herself drawn to the project while serving as the Chair of the Christian Education program for her church.  She stated, “The young people in my church were frustrated with day to day pressures and they needed a safe place where they could discuss their concerns to counselors and doctors.”

After months of preparation and planning, the faith-based non-profit Personal Counseling Service was born. “We didn’t have much money for start up, so my husband, Bill, and I found ourselves doing whatever needed to be done to ensure the PCS was a success,” Bernice recalled. 

Berniece and Bill, along with other volunteers, kept the yard landscaped and mowed, cleaned the building, took out trash, and helped in the front office when needed.  Although the PCS was created to address the needs of the entire community, the volunteers and funding primarily came from the area churches.  Berniece and the other organizers advertised through the local church ministers and the PCS doors were open for business in November 1959.

When Doug Drake nominated Berniece as an Extra Miler, he was quick to give her praise, “Berniece is very bright, passionate, and humble.”  Doug stated that Berniece’s Christian faith seemed to be a major factor leading her to create the PCS, adding that the facility is strengthening its Christian based roots by providing internships for Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary students.  Doug also noted, “We are proud that PCS serves all persons, regardless of their faith.” 

Berniece doesn’t see her personal involvement as being particularly significant; however, she does view the success of the PCS and current staff and volunteers as being momentous.  She provides this insight, “I am proud that the PCS continues to be a success 49 years after we opened the doors,” adding, “I will be 89 years old this year and hope my contribution has made a positive difference for Southern Indiana.”  Berniece becomes very serious and states, “I believe all people should show concern for their fellow person in need.”

When Drake (a previous Extra Miler) was asked why he believed Berniece Nicholson is an Extra Miler, he said, “Berniece is a gem in our community – she is the cornerstone and only surviving founder of the PCS and we plan to recognize her during our 50th anniversary celebration in 2009.”  Drake adds, “Thanks to Berniece’s efforts, more than 380,000 counseling sessions and psychiatric medication management and evaluations have been provided to members in our community.”

Berniece didn’t stop her volunteerism efforts after creating the PSC.  Even today she continues volunteering with the Hospice Foundation of America.  Berniece believes we all have an Extra Miler inside of us.  We simply must move our well intentioned dreams forward into reality.  Because Berniece Nicholson went beyond her dream to have mental counseling services available to all people in need, she is a Southern Indiana Extra Miler. 

Kindness Tip of the Month:  Berniece Nicholson asks that parents and others who associate with young people take quiet time to really listen to what they have to say. Take time each day to sit and talk with them.  Find out how they are doing – both mentally and physically.  There is help, if needed...find that help and pass it on. 

If you are a former patient or counseling client and would like to share your success story for the 50th Anniversary Celebration, contact Doug Drake: 812-206-4273 or e-mail ddrake@pcs-counseling.org 

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Kevin Hall places the Extra Miler pin on his wife, Becky Hall, during a Charity Motocycle Run for the Eric Hall Memorial Fund.

The Extra Milers - Column #47- September 6, 2008

By Carol A. Dawson

I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death.
They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make.
Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.
We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.
Leo Buscaglia

Becky Hall and her family are working for positive change for our veterans as they learn to live through their grief over the loss of their son, Eric Hall.  Most of Southern Indiana is aware of the Hall’s story of war, illness, pain, and death.  Becky, her husband, Kevin, and their family and friends are working feverishly to create something positive from their broken hearts.

Becky Hall is a healer.  Working as a pediatric physical therapist, she understands the importance of believing children when they say they are hurting.  Even when nobody else believes their pain, she believes the parent should.  Becky remembers Eric telling her, “Mom, I am a broken man.”  She believed him when he discussed his frustrations, fears, and dreadful recurring mental images of war, but felt ill equipped to truly help Eric find peace. 

Eric found peace the only way he knew how and now Becky and Kevin are determined to find acceptable answers to the question on so many returning soldier’s minds:  How do I cope?  

“We can’t change what happened to Eric; however, we hope to help other families and we are dedicated to that end.” Becky said.  She quickly added, “Our returning troops, especially those with hidden injuries – mental injuries – feel as if nobody can possibly understand and that has to change.” 

Our veterans need to know they are not unaccompanied in their healing journey and Becky is just the fighter to make it happen.   Her goal is to give our returning troops a connection – a lifeline.  She stresses the need for immediate attention.  Even a week (or months, as it is now) waiting for treatment is unacceptable and often times too late.

Becky has established the non-profit Eric Hall Memorial Fund. Her vision for this Memorial Fund has no bounds.  She believes large amounts of money can be raised through fund raisers and grants, with the money being used to make life less complicated for our veterans who are sacrificing their lives for our country. 

Becky explained, “This fund will help our veterans – that I am sure.”  The Memorial is still in the planning stage although donations are already coming in from various fund raisers.  Becky envisions a research facility to study Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the mental illness suffered by Eric and so many of our war veterans.  With conviction, Becky stated, “It is my dream that this facility would be staffed entirely by veterans, because they understand PTSD.”

Becky also wants to see action to ensure immediate financial assistance is provided to veterans returning from war – funds for college – medical assistance – family expenses – job skills training, etc. 

Charlie Shaughnessy, a decorated Viet Nam war veteran, found Eric’s body in Florida.  He has become a friend to the Hall family and assists with the Memorial fund raising efforts.  Charlie expressed high praise and admiration for Becky, “She is dedicated to helping our veterans and she is strong of conviction.”  

“Morally, Becky has been overwhelmed, as anyone would be in the same circumstances; however, she doesn’t want this to happen to any other brave young man or woman so she is selflessly giving herself to this cause,” Charlie added. 

Charlie knows first hand the importance of Becky’s work.  With a deepening in his voice, he talked about his own struggle with PTSD.  Charlie then added, “Becky Hall wants to make sure this Memorial Fund accomplishes something great.  She is a leader – making Eric’s life one of a poster child to unite mothers of veterans across the country.” 

Veterans and their families (both within our community and beyond) are already reaching out to Becky for guidance. “They know I understand and sometimes that is enough,” she explained.   She clarified her statement, “It means a lot just to be able to connect with another person who has first hand knowledge of what PTSD can do to a person, but mostly I just listen.” 

Through tireless efforts to create something positive from an enormous loss, Becky and Kevin Hall, along with Charlie Shaughnessy, have become heroes to our veterans and their families.  Thank you, Becky, Kevin, and Charlie, for making our world a better place and for being Extra Milers.    

BECKY’S KINDNESS TIP OF THE MONTH: 

If you know a war veteran who is showing signs of mental stress, tell their family and encourage them to get help, but don’t act as though it doesn’t exist.    She also wants you to know this fact about veterans with PTSD, “These are sick people trying to be well, not bad people trying to be good.”  If our troops know we care, it will go a long way in helping them get well.  If you wish to make a donation to the Eric Hall Memorial Fund, contact the Charlotte Community Foundation at (941) 637-0077 or mail a check to:  Charlotte Community Foundation, 1675 W. Marion Avenue, Ste. 111, Punta Gorda, FL  33950 (include:  For Eric Hall Memorial Fund).

Becky Boman placed the Extra Miler Pin on Pam Strong-Frymire - both are Southern Indiana Extra Milers

The Extra Milers - Big Sisters Making A Difference For Children

By Carol A. Dawson - Column #46 - August 2008

Pam Strong-Frymire is quick to pass credit elsewhere for her work as a Southern Indiana Extra Miler.  She gets her inspiration from her faith, “I have a call to serve the Lord and all that I do is done in an attempt to be obedient.”  Pam adds, “The path chosen for me has certainly been exciting!” 

Pam has been the Communication Director and a leader for Christian Academy in New Albany, Indiana since the doors were originally opened as Northside Christian Academy.  Pam’s recent “retirement” from the school coincided with the need to make time to pursue other interests. After many years working for the school and enjoying the environment she states, “This is just one of those times when you know it is time to move on.”  Pam quickly adds, “I have absolutely no doubt the future of the school is in excellent hands.”   

Optimistic and upbeat, Pam survived some difficult years in the past – her husband passed away thirteen years ago and she was left to raise their two young sons, Morgan and Evan.  She is quick to note that she didn’t raise and nurture the boys on her own.  They had a community of positive role models for which she is sincerely grateful.

Pam has also survived breast cancer and much of her decision to retire stems from her desire to focus some of her extra time and energy to study health and wellness.  It is remarkable that Pam could even have excess energy or time, as she keeps busy with multiple activities, including church ministries, her family, and most recently, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BB/BS). 

Pam’s involvement with BB/BS started with a ministry visit to a prison where she met an incarcerated woman who showed her a photo of her two young daughters.  She asked that her daughters, Cheyene and Sydney receive prayers for their happiness and well being.  Pam began praying for the girls and thinking of how she could help.  She knew of a new BB/BS program started for the children of women in prison and hoped to get the girls enrolled.   

Initially Pam didn’t anticipate being a Big Sister; however, that changed when her son’s girlfriend, Becky Boman, asked if she could assist Pam in her ministries. The timing of Becky’s request was a significant sign to Pam and she knew life would once again be taking her on another exciting journey.  She and Becky have been Big Sisters to Cheyene and Sydney for nearly two years. 

When the duo met their little sisters they became mentors and quick friends.  The four-some have attended a concert, birthday parties, scrap booking events, Waterfront Park, the backside of Churchill Downs, and more.  Pam and Becky have also attended school activities in support of the girls. 

At a recent party in Pam’s home to celebrate a family birthday, eight year old Sydney stated, “This is so exciting…it is the first birthday party I’ve ever been to…”  As she tells the story, Pam hesitated, seemingly lost in the memory.  She then added, “These girls are thrilled to be experiencing things many of us take for granted.”

It didn’t take a long conversation with Pam to realize there was another Extra Miler to be recognized this month.  When asked what motivates her to work with the BB/BS program, Becky responded, “I came from a troubled family and I’m determined to do all I can to help children who may be experiencing a similar situation.” 

Becky, a bright eyed and charming young woman, attends Ivy Technical Community College and aspires to be a Pediatric Nurse.  Her busy schedule leaves no time for television or acting as a couch cover as she works part time and volunteers for Kosair Hospital, Floyd Memorial Hospital, BB/BS and her church, Northside Christian. 

Becky spoke of her future with the Strong-Frymire family with a face-hugging smile, and commented, “Whatever I do, it will include helping children…it breaks my heart to see them suffer.”  For Becky, sharing is one of the best remedies for poverty and she has especially enjoyed sharing her life with Cheyene and Sydney.     

Both Pam and Becky are human power-packs, looking for signs of how they can continue passing along on their joy for life.  Pam ended our interview with one of her favorite quotes, “Little boys and girls learn to be big men and women in the presence of big men and women who care about little boys and girls.”  Because these two women have made a significant difference in the lives of the people in our community, we honor them as our Extra Milers. 

Thank you, Becky and Pam, for being our August Southern Indiana Extra Milers. 

KINDNESS TIP OF THE MONTH:  Pam and Becky ask that we all open our eyes to see the children in our community.  There are so many who need your love and attention.  If you can give just four hours a month, contact the Big Brothers Big Sisters and ask how you can help.  BB/BS provides guidance and even free tickets to special events in the community to assist the mentoring process.  Local contact information is:  BB/BS of Kentuckiana, Inc.
1519 Gardiner Lane, Suite B, Louisville, KY 40218 / www.bbbsky.org -  Phone:  (502) 587-0494  (Children are waiting – call today.)

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After the storm - first day back - - and now, three years later. Joe and Irma Pazzuto, St. Bernard Parish, LA.

The Extra Miler - Part I    - JULY 2008 - Column Number 44   

By Carol A. Dawson

This is part I of a two-part Extra Miler, based on a trip to New Orleans

The good people of New Orleans send Southern Indiana this message:  Please don’t forget about us, and don’t think of us as lazy people.  My journey to understanding why the people of New Orleans want us to know these things began at the Memphis airport. 

My husband accompanied me on a recent trip to New Orleans for a National Society of Newspaper Columnist convention.  With fear of impending starvation on the Memphis airport tarmac, we headed to the snack area before our flight.  There was no table open; however, a brawny man with a New Orleans/New York accent invited us to join him as he ate lunch with his wife. 

Joe and Irma Pizzuto were heading home to New Orleans and I asked, “Did Katrina seriously affect you and your family?” I would find out in the next four days just how seriously affected everyone in the New Orleans area was by the storm and how it would forever change the landscape of their lives. 

The Pizzutos grew up in St. Bernard Parish, a community southeast of New Orleans.  Joe and Irma planned to live out their retirement years in the house where they raised their family. They couldn’t have imagined that within weeks after Joe’s retirement from the railroad business, their lives would change so drastically. 

Katrina flooded 100% of St. Bernard Parish, a thriving and hard-working community of 67,000. Virtually every home and business was declared uninhabitable.    Everything was wiped out – homes, schools, businesses, parks, and restaurants.  With their homes, possessions were lost – antiques, financial papers, precious photo albums, clothes, yearbooks, and boxes full of mementos of their lives. 

Jobs were lost, family was scattered across the country, and the neighbors and friends they grew up with were gone.  Over 200 resident of the Parish lost their lives in the flood.  Storms were fairly typical to the residents in the New Orleans area, but nobody could have predicted Katrina’s all inclusive destruction. 

Joe and Irma thought the worst was over with the storm; however, there was yet more heartbreaking news.  Our conversation spilled into the gate waiting area as Irma, a petite woman with an easy smile, spoke of their greatest loss. 

Irma spoke through tear filled eyes as Joe slumped back into the chair, quietly, “Joe’s mother was in the nursing home that didn’t evacuate.”  She paused, trying to hold back her emotion, “She was bedridden and we had been told she would be evacuated.”   Joe moved forward and added, “We lost her along with 34 other patients and it took months to find and identify her.” He added, “This put everything else into perspective.” 

“We didn’t just lose our homes, we lost so much more – we lost our family – our friends -our entire community and way of life.”  Irma explained.  It has been three years since the Katrina disaster and the pain is still obvious.  Joe and Irma talked about how important it was for them to “come home.” 

As soon as the government allowed, Joe and Irma Pizzuto began making trips to what was left of their house.  They spoke of returning to find everything dead – no trees, no grass, and no birds.  Determined to make their place a home again, Joe eventually rebuilt and then started on his daughter’s home down the street. 

This comeback has not been an easy task.   Few of the Pizzuto’s neighbors and businesses have returned.  Flood insurance wasn’t thought to be needed in their area and there was little government support for individual families; therefore rebuilding has been slow. 

There is still no hospital, and there are only a few schools now open in this once thriving Parish.  As a sign of the St. Bernard’s revitalization, their only high school had a sign out front encouraging residents to drop by for a car wash fund raiser. 

They yearn for “Pre-Katrina” when every lot had a home and children laughed and played throughout their neighborhood.  So they came back.  They came back because this is their home – their love for their community is firmly grounded deep in their hearts and there isn’t wind or rain strong enough to steal that away. 

Joe and Irma set an example for Southern Indiana and the rest of America by keeping their faith during the most difficult of times and showing great fortitude to rebuild their lives and their community.  They, along with all who are rebuilding, are Extra Milers for St. Bernard Parish and for Southern Indiana.    

Kindness Tip of the Month: Everyone needs to be prepared for an emergency.  Imagine if you only had 15 minutes (or less) to leave your home before everything was blown or washed away.  What would you take…what would you lose?  What papers in your home are the most important?  Do you always keep half a tank of gas in your vehicles for evacuation (all businesses may be closed)?  Schedule an hour this week to check out this web site for easy step-by-step instructions on how to be prepared:  www.72hours.org

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The Extra Miler - Part I    - JULY 2008 - Column Number 45 

By Carol A. Dawson

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New Orleans:  Haunted by the X

I was eager to see the city of New Orleans for the first time since Katrina, and the National Society of Newspaper Columnists annual conference set up the ideal opportunity.  It was good to see the heart of the city looking pristine and playing the role of host so graciously in less than three years after the catastrophy. 

It was an easy task for the conference attendees to absorb the spirit of the French Quarter and see the great city flourishing once again.  Spirits were high and humorous one-liners flowed easily…until Saturday.  The columnists decelerated during our tour through the sections of New Orleans and surrounding Parishes hit the hardest by Katrina.  Almost on cue, the day became dark and rain began to fall as the buses turned into the first of several devastated areas. 

Tears went into auto-pilot as past television images of Katrina collided with the current state of the neighborhoods.  As we rolled through streets of concrete slabs, destroyed homes and vacant lots, I imagined these communities must have looked much like Southern Indiana before the storm…before Katrina.  Despite the efforts of thousands of Extra Milers, many areas still resemble a war-torn city in a third world country.

I will forever be haunted by the large brightly painted Xs still on many of the houses.  These symbols meant the houses had been checked by the National Guard.  In the upper portion of the X was the date (usually a couple of weeks after Katrina), to one side was the Guard unit acronym and at the bottom was the number of deceased.  Some homes were marked with the words, “Dog,” or “Cat” painted near the X in bold letters to indicate pets were lost in these homes. 

It was similar images from August 2005 that prompted me (and my husband, Ken) to arrive a day early to work with Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO). The Executive Director, Charlotte Bass Lilly, offered pick up and delivery for our day with the ARNO “beautiful animals.” 

As we journeyed to the ARNO site, Charlotte told of the people and pets that didn’t make it to safety during Katrina.  She told stories of owners who were not given the option to take their beloved pets to safety – chronicles of pain and loss.  After several stories, she sighed and made a quick thought transition.  “Enough of that…there are so many stories of hope and love you need to hear,” Charlotte said. 

During our day with ARNO, tales of perseverance and strong-will flowed from the workers.  We heard stories of ARNO purchasing boats after the storm, to look for abandoned pets.  The National Guard would recover individuals off roofs, forcing owners to leave their pets behind.  As often as possible, ARNO volunteers swept in to rescue the frightened animals. 

Stories flowed of pets swimming for miles to safety and then months later being reunited with their owners. Even now – three years after the storm, families are being reunited with their pets. 

Charlotte talked about a despondent elderly woman who lost everything to the flood, including her dog.  The woman had become despondent, with no will to live.  Months later she saw her dog in an ARNO photograph.  When the two best friends were reunited, she said it was a miracle her dog made it through the storm and if he could make it, she could also.   

ARNO provides a special place until the animals of New Orleans can find a home.  Robin Beaulieu, ARNO Rescue Director said, “We like to refer to ARNO as an animal lodge; a safe refuge after the storm.” 

The New Orleans' animals at ARNO appear happy, as teams of volunteers arrive daily.  Puppies play in wading pools while cages are cleaned, excited dogs play fetch after they are walked several times a day, and cats are gently held and snuggled in the warmth of blankets and sheets.  Despite the noise level from volunteers and attention demanding dogs, I felt a sense of calm in the middle of the chaos. While I know they are still not home; the animals are nourished, healed, and loved in this place known as the Animal Lodge. 

Kindness Tip of the Month:  Do not forget the people or the animals of New Orleans.  The rebuilding progress has come through personal sweat, along with aid from Extra Milers.  There are many volunteer groups to contact if you wish to assist in the rebuilding of New Orleans and the surrounding community.  Go to: 

Animal Rescue New Orleans: www.animalrescueneworleans.org 

Habitat for Humanity:  www.habitat-nola.org

Community Center of St. Bernard:  www.ccstb.org/

The St. Bernard Project:  www.stbernardproject.org/

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L to R:  Dana Nieman, Susan Gilmore, Regina DeCaro, and Andi Hannah

The Extra Miler   - JUNE 2008 - Column Number 43            

Women Helping Southern Indiana Beat the Habit

By Carol A. Dawson

When it comes to bringing values to life –  to doing the good, right, and appropriate thing…we're always working at it, we're never totally there, and the challenge starts
all over again with each new tomorrow. --  Eric Harvey and Steve Ventura

Our society discusses the diversity of generations ad infinitum; however, some things just do not change from one generation to the next.  With each new set of wee little ones, we idealistically believe they will become more progressive thinkers than ourselves.  We then feel helpless as we observe our future citizens emulate those behaviors we would prefer they shun. 

One nasty habit many pass on to our young adults is cigarette smoking.   In walk our June  Extra Milers:  Andrea Hannah, Regina DeCaro, Dana Nieman, and Susan Gilmore.  These women have no intention of silently watching our young adults take up this addiction.  They are each actively working with the Clark County Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Coalition (CCTPCC) to ensure our children (and adults) have the information and tools they need to make intelligent decisions about smoking and their health.   

Susan, Dana, Regina, and Andrea work tirelessly to get the facts out about the dangers of cigarette smoking and second hand smoke.  They do this, despite the negative responses they often receive while converting their passion into action. 

A few weeks ago, I attended an event on the Star of Louisville which was organized by these Extra Milers.  The event, Influence:  Women’s Toxic Relationship with Tobacco, sponsored by the CCTPCC, was well attended by a diverse group of women.  Those attending learned about special campaigns by the tobacco companies focused on attracting our young women as new smokers.   Come on…jewelry in cigarette cartons?!?

Andrea (Andi) Hannah, a retired RN, is the CCTPCC Coordinator.  The CCTPCC is tasked as being the local source for tobacco education, cessation services, youth prevention, and tobacco-free policy advocacy.  When Andi was asked why she has taken on such a heavy task, she replied, “My passion for this work developed within this job, as I learned about the breadth of the impact of tobacco.”