Community 'weaving' fabric of strength

Local financial advisors with Edward Jones, from left, Garrett Rippen and Stacy Priebe; and from right, Dustin Hartzer and Sharleen Riemenschneider, presented gift cards purchased from local restaurants to Fran Allacher and Dick Neel, with the McCook Pantry. The Edward Jones crew wanted to make a difference for both those in the food service industry as well as those in need during this time of crisis.

Courtesy photo

Several days ago, Sharleen Riemenschneider’s devotional reading struck a chord. It asked, “Are you weaving into yourself the fibers that make you a better Christian?”

As she witnessed the devastation that the coronavirus and social distancing was causing for the restaurant industry in McCook, she felt called to take action.

Sharleen, a financial advisor with Edward Jones in McCook, asked her fellow Edward Jones financial advisors to partner with her in purchasing gift cards from local eating establishments to donate to the McCook Pantry. Dustin Hartzer, Garrett Rippen, and Stacy Priebe, all advisors for Edward Jones with offices in McCook, enthusiastically agreed. “We all wanted to do something to make a difference.”

Together, the four-some purchased gift cards from Mac’s Drive-In, Citta’ Deli, Sehnert’s Bakery, Loop Brewing Company, Fuller’s Restaurant, and El Puerto. The gift cards were then donated to the McCook Pantry, who distributed them to pantry patrons.

The reaction has been life-changing, according to Sharleen. She went on to explain that her 12-year-old-son, Grady, accompanied his parents to purchase the gifts cards and to present them to the McCook Pantry. He witnessed one restaurant owner tear up in appreciation as they explained what they intended to do. One owner also donated an extra gift card to be given to the Pantry. Grady was able to see the appreciation that Pantry staff had for the gifts as they explained what a treat the cards would be for their patrons who rarely had the opportunity to eat a meal out. “I got to see firsthand how something like this makes such a difference in people’s lives,” Sharleen said.

Stacy Priebe said, “Our reason [for making the purchase and donation] was that we wanted to ensure that our local businesses stay in business and to give to those who will potentially lose their jobs and income and need food.”

Sharleen said that as the process unfolded, she witnessed other amazing acts of generosity and caring from other individuals, organizations, and businesses throughout the area. She relayed several instances throughout the community of people coming together trying to make a difference and “weaving fibers” that make the community stronger.

The Gazette would like to highlight these stories in upcoming issues. If you know of a “weaving” story that you would like to share, please contact Shary Skiles, (308) 345-4500 extension 106, or email sskiles@ocsmccook.com and let us know. We would love to showcase the spirit of how Southwest Nebraska and Northwest Kansas is coming together to create a fabric of strength as we all find new ways to weave together.