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Holiday efforts can brighten entire year

By ERNEST HOOPER
Published December 25, 2007

Over ribbons of the Honeybaked ham that your brother waited in line to buy because it's perfect for a breakfast omelette, especially when combined with chunks of sweet Ruskin tomatoes and shreds of Wisconsin cheese.

And alongside those strange but tasty proscuitto-wrapped dates your sister called "angels on horseback," as well as the chicken and beef kofte from your neighbor Carolyn, the beef tenderloin your friend Alex made despite having a cold and a few tender pieces of the turkey your wife spent hours basting.

And with respect and honor to my friend Tom McEwen, I present these holiday leftovers.

***

Kudos to Trey Wallrap, the son of Fred and Ana Wallrap. Trey's Eagle Scout project was to send holiday care packages to soldiers in Iraq. Not only did he put together 400 packages, but with the help of donations from parishioners at Christ the King Church, he raised $1,200 for postage.

Trey received at least a dozen letters with multiple signatures from soldiers, including one from Army 2nd Lt. Matthew Gregor, who is stationed at Fort McHenry in northern Iraq.

"As an Eagle Scout," Gregor penned in a handwritten note, "I know you can appreciate the sacrifices we all make to ensure peace and security throughout the world. Take care and continue to do good things."

I hope Trey realizes that letter really captures the sentiment of every American who cares about our military.

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Kudos to Metropolitan Ministries for another outstanding job leading this community's efforts in feeding and helping citizens during the holidays.

Not only does the effort provide for thousands, but it gives us an easy way to contribute during the holidays. And the big red and white tent stands as a reminder to our kids that just because they didn't get that new-fangled video game, it's not the end of the world.

***

Kudos to Herb and Jan Donica, who stage a party every year at their home to benefit Toys For Tots.

I apologize for missing this year's event, but I know your efforts did not go unappreciated.

***

Kudos to Jeff Froeschle, who presented a check to the Life Center in memory of his daughter Katie.

Jeff and the Froeschle family started a foundation in Katie's name after she was murdered while making a home visit as an insurance agent in 2004. The foundation has raised money to fund scholarships at Florida State University, but Jeff recently decided he would share $10,000 with the Life Center, which counsels victims of crime and helps people cope with sudden death.

The center asks a $35 donation for services ($15 for group sessions), but does not charge clients or turn people away.

The executive director is Sheryle Baker, whom I met years ago in the wake of my mother's death. Though we spoke for only a few minutes about my situation, the conversation and her compassion profoundly influenced my sensitivity about grieving, which can be particularly difficult during the holidays.

I can understand why Jeff was so inspired.

That's all I'm saying.

[Last modified December 24, 2007, 22:28:53]