In a remarkable effort to support lung cancer awareness and fundraising, a Notre Dame sophomore is preparing to embark on an extensive cross-country bicycle trip. Jack Owens, a business student, aims to honor the legacy of a family member while striving to eliminate misconceptions about lung cancer. His 3,600-mile journey will begin in mid-May, showcasing his dedication to a cause close to his heart.
A Meaningful Cause Takes Shape on Two Wheels
As summer approaches, many students eagerly anticipate a break from academic responsibilities. However, Jack Owens is focusing on a different kind of challenge: a lifetime bicycle ride spanning the nation. The sophomore's expedition kicks off on May 20 in Ocean Beach, California, weaving its way eastward through picturesque landscapes and notable landmarks. Notably, the route includes a stop at Notre Dame on June 22 before concluding in Ocean City, New Jersey.
This ambitious endeavor was inspired by Owens' late uncle, who originally conceived the idea in 2017. The uncle established the nonprofit "Ride Hard Breathe Easy," which fuels the mission behind Jack's ride. This initiative carries forward the memory of their Irish grandmother, who courageously battled lung cancer for nine months before passing away. Her resilience continues to inspire the family to aid others facing similar diagnoses.
Throughout the arduous journey, Owens plans to engage with patients, supporters, and communities, reinforcing the importance of lung cancer awareness. Alongside these interactions, he hopes to motivate others to join the fight against this devastating disease.
Jack Owens' determination serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have when driven by passion and purpose. His willingness to endure physical challenges underscores the struggles faced by lung cancer patients and their families. By connecting personal loss with broader advocacy, Owens exemplifies how private grief can transform into public action. As readers follow his updates, they are invited to reflect on their own potential contributions to meaningful causes.
In a recent development, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH) has allocated $200,000 in grants to 24 cultural organizations spread across 17 parishes. Among these, three recipients are located in Northeast Louisiana. The funds, distributed through the Louisiana Culture Care Fund (LCCF), aim to support operational costs for nonprofit cultural entities. Notable beneficiaries include the Friends of the Delta Music Museum, the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians, and the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. These awards come amidst broader challenges, as federal funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities was recently canceled.
The LEH's initiative focuses on bolstering cultural preservation efforts throughout Louisiana. In particular, grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 have been awarded to organizations dealing with essential expenses such as payroll, rent, utilities, and insurance. For instance, the Friends of the Delta Music Museum in Ferriday secured $5,000, while both the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians and the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council each received $10,000. This financial assistance plays a critical role in sustaining operations during challenging times.
Launched in response to the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic, the LCCF continues to provide crucial support for cultural institutions statewide. According to LEH President and Executive Director Miranda Restovic, this commitment ensures minimal disruption to vital cultural heritage work. She emphasized that state legislators recognize the importance of preserving Louisiana’s rich traditions and have partnered with LEH to offer necessary aid.
Despite this effort, an unexpected setback occurred when the LEH learned on April 2 that their general operating grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities would be terminated. This decision affects all state humanities councils nationwide, highlighting the precarious nature of funding for cultural initiatives. Nevertheless, the LEH remains dedicated to its mission of supporting local cultural partners despite these uncertainties.
As the landscape of cultural funding evolves, the LEH's actions underscore the importance of safeguarding Louisiana's unique heritage. By providing targeted financial assistance, they empower organizations to continue their invaluable work in celebrating and preserving the state's vibrant culture, even as new challenges arise.
The state of New York has announced a significant financial boost for two major educational institutions in St. Lawrence County. As part of the newly approved budget, SUNY Potsdam and SUNY Canton are set to receive an additional allocation totaling close to $2 million. This substantial increase is expected to have a positive impact on various aspects of campus life.
According to the president of SUNY Potsdam, while it is still premature to outline specific plans for the funds, the resources will primarily support operational needs and enhance student opportunities. She emphasized the administration's dedication to ensuring educational accessibility across all regions, highlighting the importance of fostering academic excellence in the North Country.
Expressing gratitude, the president acknowledged the crucial backing from local representatives Scott Gray and Dan Stec, whose efforts were instrumental in securing this funding. This development underscores the state’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational access and promoting regional growth through investment in higher education facilities.