A recent restaurant fundraiser has netted more than $1,000 for a nonprofit organization that helps veterans and animals in need, ensuring that they, in turn, will get a bigger piece of the ‘Pi.’
Last Pi Day, on March 14, Rod M. Scott, CC, CPC, Chef, and franchise owner of Smokin’ Oak in Brooksville, conceived an innovative way to raise funds for K9 Partners for Patriots on this fun novelty holiday. This way is one he conceptualized with his wife and Smokin’ Oak co-owner Cat. “This is our special Pi day. Since Pi is 3.14159265359, we decided to sell pizza pies for $3.14 on 3-14,” Scott explained. “A little fun and pun, and the important part of our restaurant is giving back to the community.”
The Hernando community responded in kind, ordering loads of pies on Pi Day to support K9 Partners for Patriots. This organization is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit group devoted to ending veteran suicide with the help of rescue dogs. “We raised $1,300 during our Pi Day event!” enthused Scott.
Rod and Cat recently paid a visit to the headquarters of K9 Partners for Patriots, located at 15322 Aviation Loop Dr, Brooksville. They presented a donation check to founder and executive director Mary Peter and her dog Justice. Mary is also a certified master dog trainer (CMDT), while Justice is an official K9P4P mascot.
This contribution meant a great deal to Scott, who is a veteran himself. “This organization is literally a lifesaver! With 22 vets a day commuting suicide, they step in and help with dogs as their companion, guardian, and service animal,” said Scott. “Their motto is ;IGY6. That means a lot. The semicolon is to pause and then “I GOT YOUR SIX” meaning “I got your back” – it’s a very important part of military life. Someone always has your back, so you don’t have to go through anything alone!”
Scott remains passionate in his personal mission to aid his fellow veterans, along with K9 Partners for Patriots. “There’s always help; there’s always someone to call. So I feel strongly associated with this organization because I lost Soldiers and friends and recently family to suicide,” he said. “Our little donation is just the start, but one day at a time and one step at a time!”
CEO of K9 Partners for Patriots, Ron Flaville, expressed gratitude for the generous giving efforts of this valuable corporate partner. Flaville stated, “We are extremely grateful to all at Smokin’ Oak Wood Fired Pizza! Their generous ‘Pi Day’ promotion exemplifies the local support on which we depend for our veterans and the service dogs they train.”
