Tristate Tragedy

This morning I took a moment on the air to make a short comment on the tragic event that occurred in Epworth over the weekend.

There was a collision between a pickup truck pulling a horse trailer and a John Deere Gator Utility Vehicle on Saturday afternoon, sadly killing 4 young men.  Bryce Wilwert and Mitchell Kluesner of Epworth, Sean Kenneally of Peosta and Nick Kramer of Dyersville.

Like a rock thrown in a lake, the ripples from this accident will be felt for a long, long time.

As a son, brother, cousin and father I can only imagine the pain that people are feeling.  Many are speechless.  What to say?  What to do?

I certainly hope you remember all parties involved, including the families and friends of the four young men.  I would also hope that you think of the other young man involved in the accident, who now must live with the guilt and horror of being involved in such a nightmare.

I pray for him everyday, too.

Many folks are looking for ways they can help and over the last few days I've seen a few things pop up via social media.

Our friend Tom at Envision Sports is selling a special t-shirt remembering the teens lost, with all proceeds going to the families of the victims.  They are $10 each and will continue to be produced for anyone who would like one.

I was really impressed watching my Facebook page with the number of people volunteering to help any way needed.  My friends Rita and Lori were both heading out to Envision to volunteer selling shirts, even offering to deliver.  (Rita was making cookies to sell, too.)

Josh from Resources Unite compiled a list of THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP.

I think the local television media has done a really nice job covering the story.  Not only the tragedy, but the amazing stories of love and support that have come out of it.

Tomorrow morning (8/7), Tom from Envision will join me on the phone for a moment to talk about how you can continue to buy t-shirts, as he's launching an online store so Bobcats from all over the world can purchase their shirt.  You'll be able to learn more about GRABBING A SHIRT HERE!

Becca from KWWL will also stop by the studios to tell us a little bit more of the story, including how you can donate to a special account set up for the families at American Trust and Savings Bank locations.  You can find more details now at the KWWL WEBSITE.

The community needs you now more than ever.

Bobcat Strong!

~CMF

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