TKE News

08/16/11

Fraters Step-up

Indiana State Fairgrounds Stage Collapse INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Tragedy struck the city of Indianapolis August 13^th when a storm caused a concert stage to collapse at the Indiana State Fairgrounds during the annual State Fair. Out of the crowd, two Fraters who were standing within feet of the destruction moved quickly away from the falling stage, and then ran back to aid those injured. TKE Professional Staff members Adam Kearns (Mu-Chi, Univ. of North Carolina-Wilmington) and Jesse Ramirez (Zeta-Delta, Alma College) rushed to help. Frater Adam assisted the countless men and women trying to lift the stage from those trapped underneath, while Frater Jesse helped others pull out trapped victims hit by the stage.

"Being as close as we were to the stage when it blew over, seeing the chaos that immediately erupted, and the injured and trapped people
has us both counting our blessings now more than ever before," said Frate Concert Attendees Step-up r Adam. "We are truly lucky. Jesse and I’s heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by this. Our hope is that all Fraters will hear this story and take advantage of the moments they have to spend time and talk with the ones they love. You truly never know what may happen tomorrow, today, or five seconds from now, as we learned Saturday night."

This is yet another example where TKE men stepped up when adversity came their way. Their assistance, along with the many others, made a difference. While this is an exceptionally sad story, the silver lining is seeing the immediate impact of two Fraters thrust into this horrific situation. Fraters Adam and Jesse’s reaction to this crisis is one to be admired and commended. They will be the first to tell you they were just doing what was necessary, but their courage under fire showcases what this Fraternity is built on: Better Men for a Better World.