Generous support

Dear Editor,

This is a little overdue, but I want to take a moment to thank some people for their generosity last summer when on July 2 we had our first annual trail ride called "The Ride to End Violence."

The month of October is National Domestic Abuse awareness month. Unfortunately, a lot of people do not survive domestic abuse or sexual assault. Those who do, experience some very devastating consequences.

Most of these problems happen in the home where people are supposed to feel safe and many times it is their own family members causing the violence. It does happen here in the seven county area of Southwest Nebraska that the DASA (Domestic Abuse/Sexual Assault) office in McCook serves.

In the year 2004 alone, they assisted 502 victims. Please consider becoming a volunteer helper or possibly donate some time, money or supplies. Donations to hurricane victims are great, but we need your help here also.

Last July, we had about 35 people come to the trail ride. We had only about 10 riders, however, we feel we will do better next year, having it earlier.

We plan to have it on June 10, 2006. If you would like to go on a gentle scenic pasture ride, all riders can feel comfortable with, make this on your calendar.

The entry fee is small and cookout is included. We want to thank the following businesses and individuals for their support.

Businesses include 4-Legs Up, Stockman's Feed & Supply, Hometown Market at Trenton, Old Home Bread, McDonald's and Wal-Mart. Individuals are Jennifer Rogers, Dana Lucero, Dennis Chambers, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Samuelson, Chuck and Brenda Yeager, Derek and Shelly Hale, Jim and Dorothy Garrett, Rick Ruggles Farms, Bonnie Brown and Val Pollman. Please excuse us if we left anyone out.

Again, next year the ride will be on Saturday, Jun 10, 2006. We welcome anyone to come and ride or come and just visit and donate and stay for the cookout.

Jim Howard family,

Indianola