With the economy in decline, turmoil around the world, and other non-profits decrying drops in funding, the Salvation Army in the three lower shore counties saw a 62% increase at their kettles this Christmas season. In addition, all kettles were manned only by volunteers this past season - the first time in recent memory.
Our thanks goes out to the 442 individuals and 255 groups who volunteered their time to help provide a better life to our neighbors in need. From local luminaries such as Wicomico Sheriff Mike Lewis and Salisbury Councilwoman Debbie Campbell to folks who don't even want their names mentioned in public, your neighbors saw a need and rushed in to fill the breach. For that, much credit should be given to Salisbury News publisher Joe Albero.
I know, you either love him or hate him. It doesn't matter. Albero saw a problem. He publicized it. He pushed, prodded and begged for volunteers. He selflessly gave hours of his own time - sometimes 6, 8, or more hours at a stretch. Albero, along with the aid of a friend, kept the problem before the public eye while ringing ringing a bell AND keeping Salisbury News operational. This was no small task and its importance should not be underestimated. Without a continuing barrage of fresh content, Albero's army of "Joeys" (my term for his loyal readers) wouldn't have stayed put. Without them coming back to Salisbury News multiple times each day, the public would not have been fully aware of the need and some number of those volunteers would not have materialized.
What did Albero ask in return? Nothing.
What has Albero received for his laudible efforts? A pile of grief and abuse.
Albero's detractors have attacked him with claims that run from the amusingly absurd to the borderline psychotic. Somehow Albero is taking food from the mouths of poor people by asking people to volunteer their time to the Salvation Army (otherwise the Salvation Army would be paying the homeless to ring bells according to the Albero haters). Albero is doing it merely for the attention. Given that he (in effect) owns his own press, this claim is simply bizarre. Albero could have easily rung the bell for an hour and then ran his own picture time after time throughout the season. I have even read comments that claim Joe is evil for giving his time.
The bottom line is simple. We should be applauding people like the Salvation Army, Mike Lewis and Jim Perdue. We should also be applauding the hard work of people like Joe Albero and the hundreds of folk who gave their time to help others. To the detractors I can only hope you find the cure for what ails you.
This post originally appeared in Delmarva Dealings
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
11 comments:
Well said, any person that would think any different is evidently against the Salvation Army. Again,
I don't agree with everyone on Salisbury News but when acolades are deserved who am I to repute them. Joe and many others deserve a big pat on the back for this being as successful as it was.
Great job, Joe!
Very true whether you like him or not and i must say i may not agree with all of the post, but i must say he came thru with help that was very much needed. Great job and have a great 2009. G Gray
Just wanted to say- I'm a Joey.
Bryan Fykes
Eat your heart out, Barrie, Bubba and Chiefy!
Amen!
GO JOE!!!
And everyone else that helped out and all those that gave so deeply in these ruff times. God bless ALL of you!!!
Jason S.
As someone who knows the real story, the community does owe a debt of gratitude to Joe and his loyal readers, now known to all as the "Joeys". Their contribution to the success of the campaign is indisputable as evidenced in the press release from The Salvation Army.
We all hoped this moment of community pride could be enjoyed a little longer. This negativity really needs to stop. We are a better community than to throw mud on such a inspirational uniting of the community to help our fellow man.
Thanks to all who gave so willingly and joyfully of their time.
I earned and WANT my "JOEY" T- shirt!
I want a "I am a Joey" T shirt too!
or "I am proud to be a Joey" Like the other have said, I don't agree with everything that is put on here, but reading this blog every day has made me think more, be aware more, and feel more. I thank you Joe and your staff.
Grammy K
I for one pity the naysayers, their hardened hearts missed it all.
They just can't stand that we together succeeded not only our intention but popped that goal wide open and with all volunteers. Money is still coming in and don't forget that people have need's all year round and diasters happen all time, so that means give all year long Ding Ding Ding Ding
Sounds like the anti Christ is trying to get in the door, we ain't ready for you yet, back off!
Great writing as usual G.A.
Congrats to the Salvation Army, Sherriff Lewis and Jim Perdue for a remarkable campaign success. Special thanks to all the bell ringing volunteers, especially Joe Albero who really played a big role in motivating these individuals and securing the time slots available. Lets also thank the folks that made the donations which enabled the whole program to flourish . God Bless and Thank You All. !!
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