Local pork producers say thank you to first responders with a pulled pork meal

 

[April 04, 2023] 

On Monday afternoon, Tom Titus and Blane Olson were joined by Chris Graue as the three delivered pulled pork meals to all the first responder locations in Lincoln.

The trio visited the Lincoln Memorial Hospital Emergency Department, Logan County Paramedics, Lincoln Rural Fire Protection District, Logan County Sheriff’s Department and Lincoln Police Department.

Titus and Olson both from the Elkhart area in Logan County, are pork producers and members of the Illinois Pork Producers organization. The IPP encourages local producers to get involved in the community and show support for area first responders via the Pass the Pork Program.

Graue is know for his “Bow-tie BBQ” and was approached by the two to assist them with the preparation of meat for meals to be delivered. Then on Monday afternoon the trio made the rounds, delivering pulled pork, sauce, potatoes, and baked beans to each of the first responder stations.

Graue said he was honored that the two had asked him to assist with the mission because he has great respect for all our first responders and felt it was very important to let them know that as often as possible.

Each delivery included enough food for 30 servings.

L to R: Chris Graue, Tom Titus, Blane Olson, and Kristen Roach with LCPA

At the LCPA it was noted that with a smaller staff, the paramedics would have ample food for all their shifts, plus perhaps a serving or two to take home to family.

L to R:  Ryan Sheley, Titus, Graue, Olson, and Nick Fleshman

At Lincoln Rural Fire, Ryan Sheley noted that on Monday night there was to be a training meeting at the station. He said that offering the attendees a good meal to go along with the work they had to do would certainly make it a much nicer evening for everyone.

Lincoln Memorial Hospital

Lincoln Police Department

Lincoln Fire Department

Logan County Sheriff's Department

With each delivery Titus explained to the first responders the mission he, Olson and Graue were on, expressing appreciation for lifesaving first responders via a hardy meal.

All the recipients were very appreciative of a free, ready-to-eat meal.

[Nila Smith with photos provided by Smith and Graue]