INDY RACING: New SEMA facility named in honor of Speedway Chairman
Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
August 30, 2001INDIANAPOLIS - The State of Indiana's renovated State Emergency Management Agency search-and-rescue facility has been named in honor of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation Chairman Mari Hulman George.
The Mari Hulman George Search and Rescue Academy is located on the grounds of Camp Atterbury, a former U.S. Army base near Edinburgh, Ind., which plays host to Army Reserve training and various civilian activities.
Dedication ceremonies for the new academy took place at Camp Atterbury on Aug. 29 and were attended by George, Indiana Lt. Gov. Joe Kernan and other state officials.
"Mrs. George has been a true friend to the State of Indiana for a long time," said Kernan. "I am honored to stand beside her this afternoon and proud that we are able to recognize her ongoing role in protecting and improving the lives of Hoosiers."
George has been active on the emergency rescue and medical fronts for many years. A few of her contributions have included: *Purchasing a hovercraft for Vigo County's state emergency management efforts.
*Enabling Purdue University veterinary students to go to Florida to assist in animal rescue after Hurricane Andrew struck in 1992, and for similar efforts after Mississippi River flooding.
*Designating the American Red Cross as the official charity of the Indy Racing League.
*Contributions to Indiana University and Purdue University for spinal-cord injury research.
"Mari Hulman George has worked behind the scenes in emergency response throughout the country," said Patrick R. Ralston, executive director of the State Emergency Management Agency/Department of Fire and Building Services. "She has not sought acclaim for herself, but we feel it is fitting that this academy be named in her honor."
The search-and-rescue facility at Camp Atterbury was opened in 1993 for the purpose of training K-9 dogs. According to Alden Taylor, public information officer for SEMA, 53 of the 55 K-9 rescue teams used in the aftermath of the bombing of the federal building at Oklahoma City in April 1995 were trained at Camp Atterbury.
With renovations completed, the Mari Hulman George Search and Rescue Academy will be available for a broader variety of search-and-rescue training.
Text provided by Paul Kelly
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