Inaugural event raises suicide awareness

Four years ago, Al’s Hideaway Cabin and RV rentals opened with four cabins, and now there are 12 cabins often filled with guests, according to owners Gordon Cook and Jennifer Green.

The 20-acre getaway location is named after Jennifer’s grandfather.

The owners, like many local businesses, are big community helpers. In fact,

Gordon Cook and Jennifer Green and their family will be working on upcoming Halloween and Christmas events.

The Cooks held an event last Saturday to raise money for suicide prevetion and awareness.

“I lost my sister to suicide. I have lost friends to suicide. I have good friends who have lost a child to suicide. And that does not have to happen,” Gordon said. “Together, drawing awareness and educating, we can prevent the tragic ending of life to suicide.” Cook said the event

Cook said the event raised $610 for the cause.

“I hoped for more, but it is what it is. We did get some Middle School kids out here and hopefully they will take notice,” he said.

We tried and will not be discouraged, we will try again. next year it will be bigger and better,” Cook said.

Cook had a lot of thanks for the community that helped support the event.

“I have thanks for John Sullivan and the Los Carnales / La Familia M/C Point Blank Chapter for their continued support in everything we do. What a great group of folks, I can not say enough about them,” he said.

“Also Todd and Dawn Bryan and all of Al’s Hideaway guests who donated and helped out.”

Todd also thanked Ban dera Brewery.

“What an awesome organization. You guys rock, we love y’all. If you have never been there, go. As soon as you walk in the door you become family.”

The day was also a celebration of the Cook’s Granddaughter, Xoi.

“Thanks to Xoi for understanding the importance of this and allowing us to utilize her birthday as a tool to spread the word and draw awareness to Suicide Prevention,” said Cook.“And thanks to my wife, Jennifer, for always being by my side, encouraging me and somehow convincing me that I can,” he said.

Cook concluded his interview with the Bulletin with a word of hope for those who may be in pain.

“If you need to talk or know someone in a crisis, please do not hesitate to call 800-273-8255 or 512- 472-HELP (4357) or Text 741741,” Cook said.