BHS science teacher shaves beard for Gleaners

Most would consider fourth hour on a Tuesday uneventful. But on December 1st if a student entered Phil Lundy’s class, students and teachers would be seen crowding his desk to get a good view. Let’s just say not everyone needed a Salsarita’s party to taste the victory of the fundraiser. The geology and physics teacher’s reward for his students’ success in the NHS can drive was something out of the ordinary, yet equally motivating to say the least. The white beard most identify Lundy with was removed.

In their 26 years of marriage, Lundy’s wife, Roni, had never seen her husband without a beard. She never imagined he would take a razor to it on a bet. Joining in on the big day was imperative, and she laughed at the result.

The act was instigated by seniors Joey Morris and Nick Marquis.

“It started as a joke, I thought there was no way he was going to do it,” Marquis said.

But the joke became a goal of 3,000 cans, which was greatly exceeded with 3,346. They’ve always been high in the numbers, but have never escalated to this amount before. Although they didn’t win, the class already had a reward. With newfound motivation for an old school fundraiser, Lundy’s class celebrated each milestone of success with baked goods and snacks. Each week climbing closer toward their goal.

But Lundy’s generosity for the cause is nothing out of the blue. He is always glad to support Gleaners, even if his hair would have to be sacrificed.

Gleaners community food bank has been around since April of 1977 when Gene Gonya co-founded one of the first food banks in the United States. Brighton has been doing the can drive for as long as advisor, Kim Christiansen can remember. With our participation in the Mountain of Food competition with schools throughout Michigan, NHS is excited to donate to Gleaners every year.

“I think it’s good to serve the community and help people out,” Christiansen said.

When Brighton High school sends in the money from the can drive to Gleaners, a number of volunteers collect and sort the food to be distributed to homes in Michigan. They then distribute the food to 510 and more partner soup kitchens, shelters and pantries across five southeast Michigan counties. Finally, partner agencies with Gleaners help feed the community by giving food to hungry homes.

As for Lundy, his new look will have to take some getting used to.

“It was weird, I don’t recognize myself in the mirror,” Lundy said. He’s bewildered by it and very cold. It even left his fellow science teachers astonished.

“Now I know what he looks like,” chemistry teacher Joe Hudecek said.

Lundy hopes to continue surpassing their goal each year. His donation is one piece of the $11,000 worth of cans collected this year. There’s no doubt he will continue to encourage his students to give back to the community.

Article by: Rachel Matuszewski