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No grinches here
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Deputy Justin Colwell, injured in his patrol car in a recent two-vehicle crash in Newtown, and Malachi Tate, 8, settle into their seats to watch “The Grinch” courtesy of the Warren County Sheriff’s Department. - photo by Lisa Hobbs
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Warren County Sheriff’s Department employees donated funds to take children from Hamilton Street Activity Center to the movies. They also provided the children popcorn to eat as they watched “The Grinch.” Pictured, from left, are Jaylyn DeSantiago, Warren County deputy Olivia Taylor, Amarah King, and Pacey Tate.

It is never too late to spread holiday cheer, just ask the children who received a private viewing of “The Grinch” the day after Christmas.

“I can’t wait,” said Jaida Forsythe. “This is my first time at the theater. I’m so excited.”

Forsythe, along with approximately 50 other children, were guests of the Warren County Sheriff’s Department on Wednesday. 

“We heard some kids at Hamilton Street Activity Center had asked to go to the movies for Christmas because they’d never been,” said Sheriff Tommy Myers. “I called Lisa Harvey, the center director, and she said it was true – that some of the children had never been to the theater and that’s what they asked for.” 

Funds for the movie trip came from an extension of No Shave November. During that fundraiser, Sheriff’s Department staff members were allowed to stop shaving their facial hair if they gave $20 that would be donated to a good cause involving children. Some deputies donated without participating. In early December, $750 was donated to Kids of the Community. 

Myers says his employees voiced a desire to continue No Shave November and use those funds to benefit children at Christmastime. 

“I can’t stress enough that this isn’t about me,” said Myers. “This is about the employees. They are doing anything and everything they can to make a difference in their community. They want to give back. I couldn’t be more proud of them. I’d like to say thank you to the theater. When I called Bob and Wanda, they said they would love to do this.” 

While Three Star Cinema offered to open its doors at a discounted rate, Sheriff’s Department employees brought bags of popcorn, candy canes and bottles of water for the children. Cornerstone Baptist Church helped with transport.

“This is wonderful,” said Harvey. “I’m humbled that the Sheriff’s Department wanted to do this for the children. We appreciate it. It’s very sweet. We do have some children who have never been to the theater. I can’t express how much this means to them.” 

Hamilton Street Activity Center serves McMinnville Housing Authority and provides after-school activities for their children, as well as snacks and help with homework.