>>SOUTHERN INDIANA — Kathy Melvin was introduced to me at a party, and within minutes it was obvious I was sitting next to an Extra Miler for not only Southern Indiana, but also for Kentuckiana (or Indyucky). As we were talking, Kathy began pulling jewelry pieces from her purse. She indicated it was a hobby.

Soon after the jewelry was displayed on the table, a woman walked up and Kathy handed her a stunning black and silver starfish necklace that had been pre-ordered. The woman was extremely pleased and asked what she owed for the necklace. Kathy responded without hesitation, “Please pay whatever you can.”

Initially I thought this to be an odd way to make money; however, I quickly learned that Kathy didn’t make the jewelry for personal profit, but instead to fund her passion for saving sick and homeless animals. In fact, she has buyers make checks payable direct to animal organization. She gives all the jewelry profit to two animal protection organizations. In Southern Indiana, Kathy gives donations from her sales to the Animal Protection Association, 702 East 11th Street, Jeffersonville, and her Louisville benefactor is the Shamrock Pet Foundation (http://www.shamrockpets.com).

Linda Hughes, one of the founders and current vice president of the APA, was quick to sing Kathy’s praises. “Kathy is a multi-tasking volunteer and a can-do person when you have a problem,” Linda added, “and we depend on passionate volunteers like her to ensure our mission is fulfilled.”

Our Extra Miler does not stop here. She also donates her time, talent and experience in the communications field by writing stories, press releases, etc., for the local animal rescue groups. Kathy recently assisted in bringing national attention to an abused black Lab.

Aiden was found with a severe arrow wound that traveled through his body. Aiden is now healing and has been adopted by a wonderful local family. The national attention from such publicity helps animal groups solicit funds to continue their efforts.

When Kathy isn’t leading her communications business, she is serving on multiple boards. She is on the board for the Center for Teaching and Learning in Louisville. Its mission is to train teachers in ways to better engage students in learning. She just completed a term on the Indiana University Alumni Association Executive Council and remains active on the Bluegrass Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America’s board.

Now if you think Kathy still may have some free time, think again. On weekends, she is often called upon to participate in the Animal Rescue Transport (she affectionately refers to it as the Doggie Underground Railroad). Kathy explains, “When animals are scheduled to be put to death at shelters across the U.S., volunteers create a driving chain to move the animals from the overcrowded facility to a place where the animals have an opportunity to be adopted.”

Finally, when Kathy is not transporting animals to safety, finding families for homeless animals, creating publicity to call attention to animal rights, serving on various boards, running a communications business, or caring for her own adopted two dogs and six cats, she is making incredibly beautiful jewelry to benefit the animals she loves.

When asked what motives her to do so much for our furry creatures, Kathy responded, “My grandmother taught me how to love and care for animals and in some small way I am honoring her memory.” Kathy, you learned your lesson well, and every time you save a life, a tail wags in your grandmother’s memory. Thank you for being a Southern Indiana Extra Miler.

To find out how you can purchase jewelry to benefit the animals in our area or to find out how you can help, call the APA at 812-283-6555 or visit their Web site: www.apa-pets.org Extra Miler Tip of the Month: Kathy wants to remind everyone that April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. Contact your local shelter and offer a hand, bring by a donation of food or money, or just spend some time with the animals who would love the attention. Learn about animal abuse/cruelty laws through: www.animallaw.com, and when you see an abused animal, report it.

Random Acts of Kindness: Melony Lewis sent an e-mail to thank an anonymous man who sat next to her in the New Albany Waffle and Steak House several months ago (May 2009). She sat through her meal, worrying to herself how she would pay for it, along with leaving a tip for the waitress. Melony had lost her job and was prepared to pay with several quarters she had in her pocket. The man quietly paid for his and Melony’s meal then left the restaurant. Melony didn’t get the chance to thank the man and wanted him to publicly know how much it meant to her. The waitress didn’t know the man’s name, but said he was a retired police officer. We also know he is a Southern Indiana Extra Miler.

Extra Miler Follow Up

• Everett “Shotgun” Long, one of our recently recognized veteran Honor/Color Guard Extra Milers passed away shortly after being recognized. Because of his illness, he had not received the Extra Miler pin. The Captain of the Honor/Color Guard, Tom Cook, respectfully placed the pin on Shotgun’s military cap before he was buried. His Veteran buddies made sure his burial was with the full military honors he so deserved. May he rest in peace.

Carol A. Dawson is a resident of Jeffersonville and owner of EEO GUIDANCE, Inc. If you have seen or been a part of an act of kindness or know an EXTRA MILER, please contact her. To submit an Extra Miler, a story, or act of kindness, contact Carol via e-mail: Cdawson@eeoguidance.com, mail: THE EXTRA MILERS, The Evening News, 221 Spring Street Jeffersonville, IN 47130-3340.