If you know me, then you know I'm not a religous person. Perhaps spiritual, but not very religous. So when my uncle told our family that he was terminally ill, I knew that I would have to find a way to deal with his passing. I did not want to say a goodbye as there are so many wonderful memories, stories, and lessons. My belief is that goodbyes are not necessary because we will see our loved ones again, so a "see ya later" seems to be more fitting.
At their house (A.K.A - 'Happy Horse Farm' ) I sat with him for a few minutes and held his hand while he slept. Then I patted his hand and told him what he told me so many times: "You're doing great, so keep it up". He grinned and I knew he heard me.
Later that day he wanted to know about my dog treat business. Asking how many I sold the previous week and how much a bag costs. Of course I answered him and told him about our new products for fall and helping the humane society with a private label. He simply replied with "Keep up the good work". I drove back to Virginia the next morning and heard of his passing the following day, July 12th.
My uncle was known to many as 'The Chief' because he was Chief of Police at the Bel Air, MD Police Department for 24 years. I grew up in Bel Air and he held that position for most of my life. He was a master networker and known to collaborate with local businesses to get things accomplished. Using this tactic he took a small town police department and brought it up to speed with modern tools and resources. I implore you to read this article The Baltimore Sun published because he left an incredible legacy that isn't easily summed up: Hundreds Bid Farewell to Bel Air's 'Chief Leo' At Memorial Service
The day after my uncle passed away I got a call from a contact with The Salvation Army that I had met at a recent Lynchburg Retail Merchants Association gathering. She said that she recommended Tanker Tots when she spoke with a Harris Corporation employee that was putting together a fundraiser for a police K9 unit in Nelson County. (For my family members reading this- ironically, Harris Corp is a large radio communications company for critical industries. )
Turns out that the SERVE (Supporting Emergency Responder's & Veteran's Engagement) division was interested in using our dog treats as a fundraiser at Harris Corp. At the end of the week I met the activities coordinator at the Forest Farmer's Market and we decided to collaborate on this project. In one week they sold 50 bags to Harris Corp employees and the proceeds will go to the Nelson County Sheriff Department.
While I spoke to these people and baked the order all I could think about was how this would be a great way to honor my uncle. Some of you might have more faith than I, and think there was divine intervention. However, my uncle was the type of person that would deny involvement and say it was networking or a good work ethic that led to this opportunity. What I am sure about is that the project allowed me to continue his legacy, and for that I am grateful.
Therefore, Sept. 1st through 30th we will donate proceeds from our online sales to Nelson County Sheriff Department. To participate please use the promo code K9NELSON during checkout at our ONLINE STORE so that we can include your name in the letter.
If you would like to make a direct donation to the Nelson County Sheriff Department, then visit the 'Go Fund Me' page created by Deputy Daniel Jones : http://www.gofundme.com/w593t8
