Vandalism won't kill spirit of United Way
As a proud artist involved in the Barrington Area United Way "Barrington Roundup," I was saddened when four of the painted horses decorating our Village this summer were vandalized, including one of mine.
Rather than dwell on the sad consequences brought on by the actions of a few, I thought it would be important to remind the community the important functions and the direct benefit the horses serve.
The Roundup celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Barrington United Way, and this public art project was designed to bring our community closer together.
Through generous sponsorship, local businesses and organizations have spent thousands of dollars on each horse to make this event possible. Hundreds of hours by UW volunteers and artists have been donated in order to complete this project.
Just like the "Painted Cows" in Chicago, this project has created a buzz of excitement and energy in our town. The horses are beautifying our public spaces and generating a great deal of discussion and interest. If you have not seen them, I encourage you to take a walk through town!
Even more importantly, this event is a fundraiser for our community at a time when the economy has challenged so many local families. The proceeds will go to the Barrington United Way, and will be used to fund health and human services agency programs benefiting Barrington and needy families in District 220.
Unfortunately, due to the recent vandalism, many additional dollars have been spent to repair the horses, decreasing the potential financial impact to our community.
So, I encourage you to talk with your friends and neighbors about the importance of the Roundup. On Oct. 17 the entire community is invited to attend the Roundup Auction at the Art Barn on the Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital campus. I will be at the event, along with many of the artists, volunteers and sponsors.
It will be a fun night of community and entertainment; reserve your tickets by calling the BAUW offices, (847) 382-8778.
I don't plan on letting a few bad "road apples" take focus off the importance of this meaningful and fun community event.
John Harff
Barrington