Another side of the story…
You may not hear this story… of professional athletes who are making a difference. A few days ago, MVP candidate Peyton Manning invited 50 of our children to participate in a Christmas party he hosts every year at the Children’s Museum. Five of the Pacers took 30 of our middle and high schoolers shopping at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Each of the students received a $200 gift card. So what did these kids purchase? –gifts for their family. The stories came back of the young girl who spent it all on her family. Point Guard Travis Diener was so moved he ended up purchasing gifts for her, and others in his group. Or the story of the young student who wanted the $95 shoes… but they went back so he could surprise his Dad with a fish finder. They were all very rich, and we are blessed because of this. We hear when athletes mess up… you need to hear that they are helping invest in the long-term development of lots of students as well. Our city is blessed to have both franchises. Go Colts… Go Pacers. Our students are better because of you. And they are all stars in my eyes.