Letters: Harold story was due for a super fundraiser

We wish to thank Timothy Soden-Groves and The Pine Knot for sharing the story of “Harold” Ankrum with us and other Pine Knot News readers. We moved to the Carlton area in 2017 and knew no one. So, when our vehicles needed servicing, we asked at a couple local businesses and were directed to Harold’s Service. Meeting Harold for the first time is like greeting an old friend, no pretenses, no false fronts, just human warmth and goodness meet you at the door.

Maybe we should not have been surprised to learn that Harold also spends a good deal of time and energy raising money for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital since many people are dedicated to charitable causes. But we were in awe of the amount he collects. Several of our conversations at home and with family and friends have centered on Harold’s commitment and hard work.

Having served on a multitude of fundraisers over the years in an area with a much larger population from which to draw, we are duly impressed by Harold’s fundraising acumen. We know finding volunteers to pitch in at events, no matter how worthy, can be challenging. But in attending the pancake breakfast and hog roast, we encountered well-run activities brimming with good food and a multitude of helpers who seemed to be having as much fun serving as we were eating.

The first time we went to the breakfast, I said to my husband, “Where do you suppose all these people came from?” meaning both the number of workers and attendees.

We know Harold also contributes to the community of Carlton by sharing his goodness with all of us. As new residents of the area, we feel the energy and generosity of all the people willing to step up to help a good cause. Harold does not badger or force his tickets on us. He asks and invites. He smiles and thanks us for coming. We are not golfers, but maybe it’s time to check out the Golf Fiasco as well.

In reflecting on Soden-Groves’ article and our positive experiences in the Carlton community and at Harold’s Service, we feel very fortunate to have found such a great new home. Perhaps it is also time to ask Harold if he can use a couple more older folks to clear tables or serve food at his next event.

Francy and Bob Chammings, Carlton