By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY ó Jeff Holshouser hopes that if he wins a car in the Rowan United Way car giveaway, he can get his car back from his son.
His name was pulled Wednesday during the first campaign report meeting. His son, Travis, 16 just began driving and has taken over his fatherís car.
Holshouserís neighbor was kind enough to lend him a vehicle in the meantime.
He has given to the campaign for a number of years and never thought his name would be drawn.
During each meeting three names will be drawn. At the final campaign report meeting, all 12 names will be called, and the final name drawn will win the car.
Four local vehicle dealers are participating ó Ben Mynatt Nissan, Gerry Wood Auto Group, Team Chevrolet and Cloninger Ford/Toyota. The winner will select a vehicle from one of the dealers.
Holshouser said he was at work when his name was called at the campaign report meeting, but he heard of the news from Gail Elder White, the director of the Salisbury Parks and Recreation Department, where he works.
ěShe came off the elevator and said congratulations,î Holshouser said.
At first he didnít know if her congratulatory praise was good or bad.
Holshouser encourages others to give even during tough economic times.
ěItís bad for everybody at least we are fortunate to be able to provide an opportunity to provide to people in need. It makes you feel good,î he said.
Carolyn Cress, who is a bus driver with the Rowan-Salisbury School System found out her name was placed in the running while she was at work on Thursday.
Cress was called to the office and found out. ěI was very surprised,î she said.
Sheís given to the United Way for more than five years through work. When she began contributing, sheíd donate a certain amount and now has it taken from her paycheck.
She has a car, but if she won one, sheíd keep it.
ěThey help a lot of people,î Cress said of the United Way.
Her son was a Cub Scout and her husband, Bob, for a long time was a Scout leader.
The Boy Scouts receive some funding from the United Way.
As of Wednesday, there has been more than $257,000 pledged toward this yearís campaign.
Attempts to reach Dr. Judy Grissom for comments was unsuccessful.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.