Recently a community members’ serious need was brought to the attention of the Flora Lions Club. I am sure many of you remember the story of John Wayne Rieken, a Carroll High School student who was left paralyzed from the chest down as the result of a serious accident. John is totally disabled, wheelchair bound and dependent upon the use of a handicapequipped van for his only means of transportation. The 1981 van that was serving John for years is now totally out of service after having what would be its final breakdown. The cost to replace that van with a good, used van is considerably more than the funds that are now available.

Curt Hufty of Collisions Unlimited is actively searching for a replacement van that meets John’s needs. What has become obvious is that the fund raising need is probably in the $5,000 to $7,000 range.

The Flora Lions Club has set up an account to assist in this project that we believe will be embraced by many people in order to help this young man.

Sometimes we have to recognize the difference between needs and wants in our lives, but this time it is easy. This is an absolute need in John’s life.

Please make checks payable to “Flora Lions Club,” with “JWR van account” on the memo line. Mail them to: Flora Lions Club c/o Joe Redmon, treasurer 205 W. Maple Street Flora, IN 46929

Please contact Joe at (574) 967-3781 or myself at (574) 967-4482 with questions or funding options.

God bless you in your generosity.

Tom Kressley Flora Lions Club