Page 69 - Galveston Waves - January 2019

Reflections of Giving make a donation to a worthwhile charity in the Gal-

by: John Valastro veston County area to put a smile on a child’s face,
warm clothes on the needy and a nutritious meal
in the stomach of those who hunger. I can assure
s we welcome 2019, you anything is a blessing, no matter how small. I
I would like to take do know this, in giving from the heart, you will be
A a few minutes to blessed exponentially!
reflect on the power of the
Spirit of Galveston. I moved One last special “thank you” to The Palms Family
to the island, or should say for another great gift of family, friendship and giv-
back to the island, after ing!!!!
nearly 50 years. I am a BOI
John and Kathy Valastro and I truly believe it means Pass on the Giving Spirit of Galveston Island.
The Palms Condos
Galveston, Texas. something special. My wife
and I have recently retired John and Kathy Valastro
after 32 years in education. We feel we have been
blessed to give our lives to a profession that truly
impacts the lives of those who value education. We
saw the good, the bad, the ugly and the sad during
those years.

Bullying, neglect, poverty and hate along with love
and kindness are abound. Mostly to the most vulner-
able, the little ones. Because of our experiences, we
feel during the holiday season it is an opportunity to
help someone less fortunate than ourselves. It gives
us a sense of true joy.

We took that same spirit and have applied it to the
island. Each year we take a collection from our From left to right: John Valastro - The Palms Condos | Nicki Huprich -
condo residents and donate to the Galveston County Broker/co-owner RE/MAX Leading Edge of Galveston | John Hosford
Food Bank. This year we challenged RE/MAX Lead- - RE/MAX Agent | Richard Nye - Executive Director Galveston County
ing Edge of Galveston (thank you Nicki Huprich, Food Bank | Donnie VanAckeren – Development Director Galveston
John Hosford and the entire team) and they matched County Food Bank
our donation. We were able to donate over $2,700 to
those who are less fortunate. This donation provided To get involved, visit the Galveston County Food
over 8,000 meals during the Christmas season. Bank online or in person.
624 4th Avenue North
Texas City, TX 77590
I want to take this opportunity to ask each of you to 409-945-4232
reflect on all the good in your life and, if possible, www.galvestoncountyfoodbank.org

Waves Magazine | January 2019 Issue | 69