Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
CLAYPOOL - The Good Neighbors are not all work and no play.
Friday, they released 41 red balloons and await word of people finding them like expectant fourth graders.
The launch was held in conjunction with a community meeting about the group's next series of projects. Balloon sale money will be used as matching funds for an owner-occupied housing rehabilitation grant from the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. Housing Opportunities of Warsaw will apply for these funds in October.
In the meantime, the group will hear Friday whether or not a $21,000 Rural Development Housing Preservation grant will be awarded.
The big red balloons were purchased for $99 by businesses and individuals with ties to Claypool. Many were bought in memory of late relatives and friends.
"We're trying to encourage neighborly fellowship," said Good Neighbors coordinator Paul Berkey. "Everyone in town received an invitation for the balloon launch."
Tags hung from each balloon string. Sponsored by Symmetry Medical, the red metal tags have give each sponsor's name and provide HOW's telephone number. Returned tags are worth $10 and a chance to win $500, if returned by Sept. 19.
Friday, amateur meteorologists predicted the balloons could drift as far away as Kendallvile, backed by a northwesterly breeze.
Claypool Good Neighbors received national recognition the past two years for projects completed during USA Weekend's Make a Difference Day.
Since 2003, rehabilitation materials have been purchased with grants and donations. The Good Neighbors volunteer labor for people who cannot do for themselves.
Tags should be reported to Housing Opportunities of Warsaw by calling 574-269-7641. Returned tags can be redeemed for $10. Finders' names will be put in a drawing for $500. Found tags also can be reported to Paul Berkey by e-mail: pberkey@claypoolgoodneighbors.com
On the Net: www.claypoolgoodneighbors.com
