The second annual work day in memory of Jeff Gannon at Animal Protection of East Texas-SPCA was even more successful than last year’s, according to his sister, Kim.

The event is held on Oct. 8, the anniversary of Jeff’s death in 2019.

Eight more volunteers assisted, including family from St. Louis and friends from Dallas, Mineola and Tyler. 

Product donations doubled and raised almost $1,000 so far for APET.

Eighteen volunteers tackled everything from power washing to landscaping to pet grooming. 

Liz Greenlee, certified groomer and cousin from St. Louis, gave VIP treatments to several pups in need of special skin baths and nail trims, assisted by Kristin Blakemore, cousin from St. Louis. 

David Blaylock, class of MHS ‘96, made an extra trip to the shelter the weekend prior to get a jumpstart on the tractor/brush hog needs. 

Other local newcomers were Bro. Mark Neely and wife Peggy, who helped with outdoor yard work and indoor loving to the animals. 

Prior to arrival at the shelter, the group met at the Mineola football field to view Jeff’s brick, donated by friends and second time volunteers Steve Hooton (MHS class of ‘97), Lana Harder (class of ‘96) and others. 

“We now look forward to expanding support efforts throughout the year, creating opportunities with MHS students, as well as ad-hoc project assistance and relief,” said Kim Gannon.

Donations are accepted any time via the website apetspca.org or storefront, noting “in memory of Jeff Gannon.”

“Our family expresses tremendous gratitude for all that contributed and continue to help us heal collectively,” Kim said.