By Greg Halbleib
BLOOMINGTON – Ordinary citizens are being recognized as local heroes during an annual event next month.
The American Red Cross Saluting Our Heroes Breakfast on November 9 at the Doubletree by Hilton in Bloomington features eight honorees who have benefitted others with kindness or courage. Colleen Moore of the Red Cross said the acts vary, including a joint effort by emergency workers in Bloomington and LeRoy to provide a disabled youth with a trip to a Cubs game.
“We think about the things that they do on a daily basis, and here is a group of individuals that went above and beyond outside their duties to help another individual in our community,” Moore told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin.
Moore said most honorees are surprised to learn of their awards.
“When we contact them to let them know that we’re honoring them that morning, they’re like, ‘What do you mean?'” said Moore. “They don’t want to be recognized as a hero because they were just doing the right thing.”
Tickets for the breakfast are available at redcross.org and searching Saluting Our Heroes or by calling 309-662-0500.
Honorees include:
Armed Forces Award, sponsored by Country Financial
Audiologist Dr. Anthony Joseph, a retired commander in the US Navy, has made it his mission to study the long-term impact of blast-related injuries on our military members. Dr. Joseph and other scientists at the Naval Health Research Center are exploring whether auditory injuries can be a predictor for other combat-related injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and depression.
Good Samaritan Award, sponsored by CEFCU
Jon Camponi’s generous donation of building materials and time has made a huge difference in one local woman’s life. Jon built a ramp allowing the woman easier access to come and go from her home.
Health and Safety Award, sponsored by OSF St. Joseph Medical Center
GROWMARK staff members provided lifesaving care when a co-worker suffered a life-threatening cardiac event. Working together, these heroic co-workers were able to save the life of one of their fellow workers.
Ambassador Award, sponsored by Integrity Technology Solutions
Tom Huffington created Healing Outside of a Hospital (HOOAH) Deer Hunt for Heroes to help wounded soldiers with their recovery. Tom’s organization has provided a positive healing experience for many of our local wounded heroes and has thankfully saved some lives.
Public Service Award, sponsored by Roger and Mary Hunt
The Bloomington Fire Department and LeRoy Ambulance worked together to make the dream of attending a Cubs’ game at Wrigley Field come true for a local man with a disability.
Paula R. Walsh Volunteer Award, sponsored by the Walsh Family
Gerald “Jerry” Monical has spent his lifetime volunteering. More than 50 years ago, Jerry was a founding member of his church and has continued his dedication to his church by serving as an usher, member of the church choir and served with the deaf ministry after learning how to sign. Jerry, an army veteran, has served in various capacities with the Carl Martin Post 435 American Legion including Commander, Jr. Vice Commander, Honor Guard Commander and Chaplain. The organization that is closest to Jerry’s heart, where he loves to volunteer to help others—is the American Red Cross. In addition to his volunteering with the Red Cross, Jerry is a 47-gallon blood donor.
Youth Award, sponsored by State Farm
Shyresse Winters is an extraordinary young person with a strong and vibrant commitment to her family, school and community. During her time as a student at Bloomington High School, Shyresse has been involved with a number of organizations and has led by example to become a role model for other students. Her activities have included helping as a teacher’s aide, volunteering as a tour guide for 8th graders, serving as a Bloomington Area Career Center Ambassador and completing an internship at GROWMARK. Shyresse has also been involved with the Midwest Food Bank, Wishbone, Raiders 202 (mentoring freshman) and the YWCA.
The Spirit of McLean County Award, sponsored by WJBC, will also be announced at the event.
