Local Red Cross Recognizes Individuals and Organizations for Support, Leadership

In opening remarks, Red Cross Chairman Robert McGovern recapped the agency's July 2004 to June 2005 fiscal year. "Last year at this time, we had already seen the worst hurricane season in the history of the Red Cross, or so we thought," McGovern said, referring to the four hurricanes to hit the Florida coast in a six-week period during Aug. and Sept. 2004. "Locally, Hurricane Ivan spawned massive floods in Lehigh and Northampton counties, leaving hundreds of homes destroyed or heavily damaged," he added. "Then, on Dec. 26, a tidal wave created by the strongest earthquake in 40 years ripped apart the lives of millions of people living along the coasts of the Indian Ocean. The Greater Lehigh Valley community responded with donations totaling nearly $900,000 in support of international (Red Cross) relief efforts.

"April brought yet another challenge as heavy rains created widespread floods in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey," he continued. "Through it all, the Red Cross was there. After witnessing the floods and seeing Red Cross v olunteers firsthand in action, my appreciation for what they do has jumped to another level."

The chapter was recognized at the highest level in March when national American Red Cross President and CEO Marsha Evans visited the agency. "Very few chapters are afforded this distinguished honor," McGovern told the audience.

"The events of this fall eclipsed last year," McGovern stated. "The American Red Cross faced the most historic disaster in its 125-year-history when Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast in late August." Soon after, Hurricanes Rita and Wilma hit. "Never before have so many people needed our help. And never before has the Greater Lehigh Valley reached out at this level. To date, residents of this area have donated more than $3.9 million for hurricane relief. We should all be proud and encouraged by the caring and commitment demonstrated by our community."

McGovern also recognized individuals and organizations for other awards. Robert and Mary Gedney of Allentown were recognized for their service as founding leaders of the chapter's Clara Barton Society since 2003. The society recognizes donors who give an annual donation of $1,000 or more to the local Red Cross. Betsy and Sam Torrence of Center Valley were introduced as the new chairpersons, succeeding the Gedneys.

Certificates of appreciation were presented to six South Mountain Middle School students in Allentown who were trained and certified in Red Cross first aid and CPR last school year. Over the course of 10 days, the students, who w ere in seventh grade at the time, spent two hours after-school learning Red Cross lifesaving skills. Seventh-grade teacher Marjorie Huber-Hallman suggested the training when it came to her attention that trained first aid workers were not available during many after-school activities. Sacred Heart Hospital in Allentown paid for the class materials and the course was taught by a Red Cross-trained instructor. "Fortunately, the students have not had to use their training skills," said Huber-Hallman, "but just knowing that we have trained help available is comforting." Senator Pat Browne presented each student with a certificate of appreciation. Students recognized were: Christie Lalama, Mike Lara, Troy Livinghouse, Lan Nguyen, Phil Nguyen and Rubina Swavely.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves more than 660,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 20,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.