The Heights Car Show—an annual event at The Heights Church in Richardson—staged an out-of-the-ordinary event this year that raised more than $11,800 worth of food donations and cash contributions for Richardson’s Network of Community Ministries. When COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the typical car show, The Heights Car Show partnered with the Dallas Area Pontiac Association, the Ferrari Club of America DFW and other area car clubs to support a Cruise-In Food Drive on July 11. More than 100 cars participated, and the event generated more than 3,000 pounds of donated food and more than $6,500 in financial contributions. “I was really surprised by all of the people who braved the heat and donated so generously,” said Brian Ratcliff, Heights Car Show organizer. Participants drove their classic, exotic and sports cars to The Heights to donate cash and food items. Some set up lawn chairs in the shade to socialize and watch the parade of cars throughout the day. Participants wore masks and followed social distancing guidelines. Over the Heights Car Show’s 13-year history, it has raised more than $66,155 and contributed 11,600 pounds of food to the Network of Community Ministries. Gary Singleton is senior pastor and Richard Covington is missions pastor at The Heights Church.
Buckner International named Samela Macon as vice president of domestic programs and support services for Buckner Children and Family Services, effective Aug. 1. She has served in that role in an interim capacity since March. Macon will provide leadership, oversight, supervision and management for all Texas programs and services, including Buckner Foster Care and Adoption, Buckner Family Hope Centers, Buckner Family Pathways and the nonprofit’s support center. Macon has more than 23 years of child welfare experience, including 18 years with Buckner, most recently as senior director of domestic foster care and adoption. “Samela’s years of service at Buckner, along with experience and personal growth serving in these capacities as a proven leader at Buckner made her the right choice to lead our domestic programs and support services,” said Buckner Children and Family Services Senior Vice President Henry Jackson. “Samela is passionate about serving vulnerable children and families with a commitment to excellence.” Macon received her Bachelor of Science degree in sociology from Lamar University. She currently is enrolled in Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge pursuing her Master of Science degree in leadership and human resource development.
In preparation for a possible storm along the Texas Gulf coast, Texas Baptist Men Disaster Relief Director Dwain Carter placed all volunteer feeding crews and shower unit personnel on alert effective July 21. “As the storm approaches the coast, I encourage each of you to pray for the area,” Carter wrote to TBM disaster relief volunteers. “Hopefully, the storm will weaken before making landfall. However, if need arises, I trust you will be prayed up and ready to go.”
Modern Healthcare recognized Abilene-based Hendrick Health System as one of the “2020 Best Places to Work in Healthcare.” The magazine created the “Best Places to Work” awards program to recognize companies that strive continuously to improve their work environment and increase employee engagement, satisfaction and retention through innovative changes in the workplace. The list is compiled based on responses to a confidential survey that provides the basis for analysis in leadership and planning; corporate culture and communications; role satisfaction; work environment; relationship with supervisors; training, development and resources; pay and benefits; and overall engagement. Brad Holland, president and CEO of Hendrick Health System, expressed his belief the recognition reflects Hendrick’s “daily commitment to deliver high quality health care emphasizing excellence and compassion consistent with the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”
Retirement
Stan Allcorn as pastor of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church in Abilene, where he has served since 1998. The church will mark his retirement with a series of special events on Aug. 30. He will preach his final sermons as pastor in the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services, which also will include several presentations. An outdoor event with activities for the whole family and a “Roasted (All)Corn” tribute will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
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