Bakotopia

Loading...

Larger Map

larger view larger view

Operation Interdependence Comes To Bako
Our troops need help - here's how you can do your part!



By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia Editor

Fishlips is doing their part to make a difference during the war by partnering up with Operation Interdependence.

Founded in 2001 by retired chief warrant officer, Albert R. Renteria (Marines), Operation Interdependence is a national nonprofit organization that acts as a civilian-to-military delivery system, making it easy for Americans to contribute to deployed frontline military in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Fishlips owner Shawna Haddad-Byers believes in the mission of OI as an effective way to show Bakersfield cares.

“Their shipping costs are so much less than ours, and that really helps," she said of the benefit of contributing to OI. "We can get tons of basic civilian rations delivered - toothpaste, tooth brushes, toiletries, mp3 players, candy, small toys for the kids of Iraq. Balanced out, it roughly costs $5 to take care of a soldier."

The partnership between Fishlips and OI began in July of ’06, and has grown ever since.

Benefit shows featuring famous names like guitarists Gary Hoey, Dick Dale, country legend Merle Haggard, Lee Rocker, and the annual “Scott Stock” -  show penned for KERN’s Scott Cox, another firm OI supporter - have pulled together more than $30K in donations so far. Artists involved also donate autographed guitars to raffle off at each show.

For more information on Operation Interdependence, visit their Web site:

www.oidelivers.org

You can also make donations at Fishlips, 1517 18th St. downtown Bakersfield, 661-324-2557.

Printed in Bakotopia magazine, issue 32, 7-10-08