Check Presented to Dr. Eric Barron at the Veteran’s Tailgate
November, 13, 2017 (State College, PA) – With nearly 10,000 veterans looking on inside the Bryce Jordan Center during Saturday’s Veteran’s Tailgate, representatives from downtown businesses presented Dr. Eric Barron with a $6,778 donation to the Penn State Student Military Fund.
“On behalf of the Downtown State College Improvement District’s staff, board members, and businesses, we want to acknowledge our deep gratitude for all those who have served, are serving, and their families who also sacrifice so much,” noted Irene Miller, Executive Director of the Downtown State College Improvement District. “The Penn State Student Military Fund gives out more than just scholarships. It is an investment in those who have already given so much for us. While they are away from their families, ensuring our democracy is preserved, we are free to follow our dreams. For many in the downtown area, that means the freedom to pursue a very particular American dream – owning and running a small business.”
Over 40 local businesses, community members, and organizations made a donation, including:
- Appalachian Outdoors
- American Legion #245
- Balfurd Dry Cleaners
- Beck Psychotherapy
- Branch and the Vine
- Oscar Johnston
- Connections
- CrossFit Nittany
- Douglas Albert Gallery
- Downtown State College Improvement District
- Evolve Studio, LLC
- First Citizens Community Bank
- Frost & Conn
- Funky Trunk
- Happy Valley Optical
- Harper’s
- Herlocher’s Dipping Mustard
- Hotel State College Properties
- Jodi & Al Pringle
- Kitchen Kaboodle
- Law Office of Richard Kalin
- Lion & Cub
- Lion’s Pride
- McLanahan’s Downtown Market
- McLanahan’s Penn State Room
- Miska & Reini Goldsmiths and Jewelers
- Moyer Jewelers
- Old State Clothing Co.
- Rinaldo’s Barber Shop
- Saint’s Cafe
- Sign Factory
- State Theatre
- Tavern
- The Makery
- The Shandygaff
- Towne Centre One
- Uncle Eli’s
- Webster’s Bookstore
- Yoga in State College
- Your Cigar Den
There were a few things that could not be displayed on a check though – things that were important to businesses and that went above and beyond a donation.
Miller explained that numerous businesses offered and continue to offer discounts to military members.
She also noted that a check could not relay the way people came together, felt appreciated, and were excited to help.
“And, one of the biggest things that you won’t see on this check is an event that was held downtown last Friday,” continued Miller.
“This was our community’s way of showing their appreciation in a physical way, out loud, in person, on Allen Street. With a 25 foot long American flag flying proudly over Allen Street, there were hours of festivities in honor of Military Appreciation. Businesses decorated their storefronts, opened their doors, and continued the appreciation throughout their shops. Community members met Uncle Sam, Lady Liberty, and Dr. Barron, all of whom graciously took many selfies!”
In addition to the check, the jumbo Thank You card that community members signed the previous Friday was displayed at the Veteran’s Tailgate.
The Penn State Student Military Fund supports scholarships to any Penn State student who is an active military member, in ROTC, a veteran, or whose spouse applies for financial support from the fund.
For more information about the Downtown State College Improvement District, please visit our website or call the office at (814) 238-7004.
# # #
