Highway Patrol lends a hand by working for tips

By Craig Rule

Usually, we might hear “friendly” tips from our Iowa State Highway Troopers like:  “You were going a bit fast for the speed limit, Ma’am.  We’d rather you get to your destination safely instead of carelessly quick,” or “Sir, you missed that stop sign at the last intersection.  It is there to prevent accidental injury to you and other folks.”  And they would write a small report to remind you of your infraction when you appear in court.

Because of the Seven Stars Family Restaurant’s proximity to Interstate 35 on 4th Avenue South, it makes a convenient location for Iowa Troopers taking a coffee or lunch rest break.  However, on Saturday, Oct. 27, some of these men and women took their day-off to serve the public in a very personal and special way.  They filled coffee cups, delivered meal orders, and chatted with the customers at the very busy family restaurant that day.

The Clear Lake-Ventura Food Pantry was one recipient of more than $1,500 due to the success, generosity and the cooperation of the Patrol.  Restaurant management donated all the proceeds of the day’s event, two waitresses contributed 100 percent of their tips, and the other wait staff shared half of their tips to this unique service fundraiser.

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Because of the pantry’s purpose, helping solve hunger issues in the community, the day’s customers were very gracious bestowing tips.

This is the fourth year for the fund raiser, and it was not until after the first year that they discovered the new local food pantry.  Immediately, owners decided the donations be divided and shared with Harvest Food Bank in Mason City.  The local donation is an equal portion of the total gratuity from the restaurant and its customers.

The Pantry is located at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church and is operated and supported by volunteers from the community and many local churches and organizations.  It is open every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturdays at 9 until 11 a.m. and on the first and third Friday of each month between 1 and 3 p.m.

“We may feel a bit uncomfortable to have a patrol car behind you or just passing by, but they are out there to serve and protect our citizens. Instead, feel comfortable enough to give them a friendly wave and smile to thank them for being where they are needed.  That Saturday, they were at yet another place to give their ‘tips’ in a very special way.”

Craig Rule is a volunteer at the Clear Lake-Ventura Food Pantry and a liaison for this event.

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