Our first encounter with Jerry.
Jerry became very popular. And is our first welcome to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. Today the Peace Runners will visit with three Clubhouses. The first, the Hammond Club.
Denise gives the team an excellent tour of the Clubhouse.
"Peace is the quiet harmony that blossoms when conflict fades."
The young people are eager to join in the country guessing game.
Guess my country!
Yes, it's Germany!
Which city has this statue?
Hands up if You know the answer!
A moment of silence...
And finally, the Peace Run is honored to present the Torch Bearer Award to Mr. Chuck Kreisl. His contributions to the Hammond Club for so many years cannot be measured. He embodies a goodness and integrity that inspires and encourages all those he meets. His tireless work and self giving has changed the lives of countless youth. The Hammond Club is lucky to have him.
A big thank you to Marina Kirova, Sheria Givens, and Lashunda Adams! You are an excellent team! Director of Education and Programming, Marina is preparing to join us for our journey to the next two clubs here in Indiana.
"Give Peace a Chance".
Now its time to put the run into Peace Run.
The next visit of the day is with the John Will Anderson Clubhouse in Gary.
Deep insights from the Boys and Girls Club, Peace Run shares your 'positive' message.
Lots of cheers from a minion of supporters.
Sharing video about the Peace Run.
And to be experienced without, peace and enthusiasm are best friends!
Peace is something to be discovered within.
Once more, the Peace Run is proud to recognize a true Torch Bearer in Mr. Michael Gee for his unwavering service. Brianna Griffin, Gary Club Director does the honor of presenting the Torch Bearer Medal. Thank you Mr. Gee. You leave a legacy of goodness.
The team was delighted to learn that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, came from Gary.
Many words for peace!
And last but not least, the team is welcomed at the Portage Club. The Torch Bearer award was presented to Portage Mayor Austin Bonta who so eloquently introduced us to the history of the region.
Some wonderful singing from the local talents.
Peace is dynamic... and restful.
Three cheers for peace!
Thank you again to Marina Kirova, and to Club Director Nicole Barry and Program Director Sydnie Anderson.
We finally meet the real Jerry!
Jerry Czarnecki is Vice President of Operations of Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. His footprint is clearly seen in all the clubs we visited.
President & CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs or Greater Northwest Indiana Mike Jessen joins us in holding the torch with the kids from Portage Boys and Girls Club.
Mayor Bonta leads the team out, he is an excellent Torch Bearer in all ways.
In the care and protection of the Portage Finest.
Our escorts prepare for their most important duty. Escorting Mayor Bonta and the Peace Run team!
Our formal day is done, now we are heading into Indiana Dunes National Park.
Gratitude to Peace Garden in Chicago for the wonderful dinner.
