News & Events

CINCINNATI - September 15, 2007 - On Saturday night as "Elvis" (Cincinnati native Paul Halverstadt) sang GI Blues, and other hits made famous by "the King", it was the dedication of the song "American Trilogy" to a wounded warrior that brought the crowd to its feet and tears to its eyes. From the stage Halverstadt said "I'm honored to be here to support such a wonderful young man. I've never met Joel but I love him already."

That sentiment was shared by many who attended the benefit held for Joel Dulashanti and his wife Lindsey. By the end of the evening over $3000 was raised to help with personal needs and out of pocket expenses incurred by the family.

Dulashanti was severely wounded in May of 2007. As a result of his wounds Joel's right leg was amputated from the just above the knee and he suffered injuries to his internal organs. Joel and Lindsey were unable to attend the benefit as Joel is going through rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington D.C.

While many in attendance had never met Joel, he could be seen just about everywhere. Pictures of Joel both before and after being wounded were placed on every table along with Foundation Thank You Cards. Everyone signed a personal note to Joel expressing their appreciation for his service and sacrifice as well as for a speedy recovery.

Lindsey's parents Ken and Peggy Johnson attended the evening along with Lindsey's younger sister Kelsey. Representative Jean Schmidt of the 2nd Congressional District of Ohio also attended the event.

The event was hosted by Chuck Cain VFW Post 7670 in Hamilton and Commander Chris Haynes presented a check for $200.00 to the fund for Joel during intermission. Attendees dined on food donated by JTM, Ohio Lunch, Gold Star Chili, Busken Bakery, and Wal-Mart, while placing bids on silent auction items to include tickets to the Bengals-Rams game on Dec 9th, a Rudi Johnson signed football, a tandem skydive donated by Team Fastrax/Start Skydiving and other sports memorabilia.

"So many people donated their time, money, and resources, including a lot of prayer to make this evening possible and for that we are truly grateful" said John Guinn, President and Founder of the Thank You Foundation. "To see everyone rally around Joel and Lindsey this way is simply just wonderful. They are exceptional people and I am honored to know them." Guinn added.

During intermission The Thank You Foundation presented awards to several Veterans in attendance. Brian Griffith, Sam Arnold, Jimmy Kay, and Chris Haynes were each honored for their military service.

The Foundation would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the event a success.

An extra special thank you to the following volunteers of The Thank You Foundation

Paul Halverstadt as Elvis sings GI Blues

Paul sings a tribute to Joel

Rep Jean Schmidt talks with Peggy Johnson

Teri Monnin & Jean Schmidt with Peggy, Ken, and Kelsy Johnson

Kelsey, Peggy, John and Ken

Jimmy Kay, Paul, and Brian Griffith