A year ago this Saturday, the tragedy of Jonathan Willis “Nathan” Beck unfolded. The 14 year old was with a friend and was attempting to cross the Broad River. Nathan lost his footing near Sandy Run Creek and was swept 300 yards downstream. His companion was able to swim to safety, but it took twelve agonizing days for the searchers to find Nathan. Most of us remember those days unfolding as search parties hunted for him.
This Saturday, April 14, in his honor, the first Nathan Beck Memorial Event will take place. A motorcycle ride will start at Broad River Greenway at 12:15 pm and the events of the day will end with a big fundraiser at 7 p.m. The big “After Party” at Skooterz, at 1851 East Dixon Blvd. in Shelby will feature the band “Buick Mackane”, who is donating their time and talents. Skooterz is providing their facility and staff. The $5.00 cover charge at the door and 50/50 raffle proceeds will all be donated to “The Nathan Beck Memorial Scholarship Fund”. Funds will be administered by Crestview Baptist Church, where Nathan was a member. Everybody is welcome to participate in the celebration of Nathan’s life and creation of the Memorial Fund in his honor.