Hello everyone. While I ususally try to write with something light-hearted or amusing to say, I thought it appropriate to comment on a recent tragedy within the Kimmel Center family. One of our finest ushers, Donna Bond was recently murdered while working as a caretaker for the elderly. She will be missed, and we will carry our heavy hearts to work every day, as her regular patrons will surely carry theirs as they attend concerts in the coming weeks.
The reason I bring this up is not to bring everyone down, but to serve as a reminder why we do what we do. This loss has truly illuminated the binding effect the arts can have on all of us. Members of the Kimmel Center family, from administrative staff to performers to patrons have come together to dedicate their work to the memory of this truly wonderful individual. Donna cared a lot for the people and organization she works for, and this artistic community has responded in remarkable fashion.
Perhaps, in the coming weeks, we can all take a minute to appreciate the remarkable nature of the things we get to do each day...the remarkable glass ceiling we get to work under, and the remarkable amount of lives we get to influence on a daily basis. The arts give us an opportunity to be absolutely splendid whensoever we choose. That's an opportunity many people would give their right arm for. Donna Bond knew this, and took that opportunity every time she stepped in to the building.
And to our patrons, for whom we truly work, I invite you to enjoy the Kimmel Center and become a part of this family which I am quite proud to be a part of. We are many, and there is always room for one more.
I'd like to open this thread for anyone who has thoughts about Donna.
The family of Donna Bond would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their kind words and prayers.
Sincerely,
Janelle, Sharelle, De'Anna and Shavawn
i would like to thank the Kimmell Center for everything that they have done to honor my mother and would also like to that you for all of your support and you all are greatly appreciated.
Thank You
Love Shavawn