(MURFREESBORO) The 2023 Red Cross Heroes Breakfast was held Friday morning (3/10/2023) in the ballroom at MTSU's Student Union Building. The late Mark Pirtle was honored posthumously with the 2023 Hero Award. Dr. Gloria Bonner was presented the Volunteer Spotlight.
Heart of Tennessee Chapter Executive Director John Mitchell served as the emcee and kept the information flowing during the packed breakfast.
Red Cross Philanthropy Chair Bill Shacklett talked about how the Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross continues to help the area. His moving thoughts presented a picture of how the chapter helps individuals who are in crisis mode such as being a victim of a fire, flood, weather disaster as well as keeping communications alive between this community and those serving in the armed forces.
MARK PIRTLE HERO HONOREE
A video with friends of this community leader shared memories of Mark. He made a dramatic difference in the region through his talents as a real estate developer and automobile dealership owner.
Like many successful entrepreneurs, ideas that have grown into major complexes in this community were born in an instant under the most unique surroundings. It might have been during a meeting with friends, a planning committee meeting, or during another non-related activity.
His brother Mike represented the Pirtle family and shared memories of Mark.
WATCH THE VIDEO THAT WAS SHOWN DURING THE EVENT BELOW
DR. GLORIA BONNER VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Dr. Gloria Bonner, retired MTSU, was the Volunteer Spotlight honoree. He heads the Mission Outreach Committee that includes diversity and inclusion.
Dr. Bonner noted that often successful events that help others, do that by also being fun for those making it happen. In a time when the Red Cross blood collections sometimes are low, the "MTSU Bleed Blue, Beat WKU" has saved the day.
Dr. Bonner shared her love for the Red Cross and encouraged others to get involved.
CLOSING
Board Chair LaShan Dixon was wearing her Mrs. United States of America banner and crown, and her daughter in the same outfit, broke into "If You're Happy And You Know It". The two of them went through clap your hands, stomp your feet and wrapped-up with SHOUT RED CROSS.
