We get a lot of comments posted on our Web site and called in to Sound Off about “young people these days” blah, blah blah.
Well, I would like to balance some of these negative comments with
an experience I had Thursday morning in Alton. It wasn’t a big deal, but I give credit:
It was pouring down rain and I was walking down Alby Street hill from Alton City Hall to East Broadway. I was trying to keep dry under an umbrella being attacked by the wind, while also protecting two reporters notepads and an accompanying, important piece of paper while gripping two pens.
I was trying not to slip on the rainwater, but I didn’t expect to trip on an uneven piece of sidewalk.
But I did.
As quick as can be, I found myself sitting on my downturned foot, my clothing already getting soaked in the rain. I was stunned to find myself in that situation.
Just as quickly, three young men rushed out from the protected, dry lower doorway of City Hall that once served as a sally-port when the police station was located in its basement.
“Are you all right?” “Can I help you?” “Don’t worry, your umbrella isn’t going anywhere,” they chimed as I tried to grab all of the aforementioned belongings to keep them from blowing away or getting even wetter.
One of the young men scooped up my things and the others helped me back up to my feet. With less dignity, I continued back down that hill, albeit even more careful than before.
The top of my foot swelled a bit and it was somewhat painful, but it’s only tender today.
Of course, just prior to my fall I had joked with a woman who works in Alton City Hall about the treacherous Alby Street hill.
People up there always comment on my resolve to walk up the thing, but I always say I’m more worried about going down that hill than climbing up the incline.
Now, even more so.
Anyway, regarding these young guys - I do not know their names - I so appreciated their quick actions.
They jumped out of the dry doorway, not worrying about getting wet in the drenching rain and not just laughing at me or calling 911 – when all I needed a helping hand, or six.
Dave Coffman, head of maintenance at City Hall, said the men were helping him clean and move items in the old police station space.
He said they are employed through a Madison County work program, which is funded by the federal stimulus (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) money. They were at City Hall one day, and plan to do some chores next week at the public works building.
I hope these men find permanent employment soon.
Although I know nothing about them, it appears that their hearts are in the right place and someone taught them right.
Thank you, guys!
