Annual Heroes Breakfast for the American Red Cross Heart of Tennessee Chapter Announced for March 10

MURFREESBORO, Tenn., Feb. 23, 2023 - The American Red Cross, Heart of Tennessee Chapter will host the annual Heart of Tennessee Heroes Breakfast on Friday, March 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Middle Tennessee State University Student Union. This event is one of the critical fundraisers for the chapter. Funds raised from the luncheon will help the Red Cross deliver critical services to the community.   

The chapter will honor the legacy of Mark A. Pirtle, a business icon who played a key role in the commercial development of Murfreesboro over the past three decades. Marks brother, Mike Pirtle will accept the 2023 Heart of Tennessee American Red Cross Heroes Award in tribute. Pirtle passed away in Oct. 2022 and was known for his work throughout the community.  
 
“Mr. Pirtle will be remembered as a giving family man, for his vision, his great business success, and for his immense willingness to share his fortune, time, and entrepreneurship with others,” Mitchell added. 
  
As part of the breakfast, the chapter will also celebrate local volunteers and highlight the Red Cross mission in the community. 
 
Chapter volunteer, Dr. Gloria Bonner, will also be recognized during the event for her service with the chapter’s mission and her involvement with the Diversity and Inclusion Committee.  

Dr. Gloria Bonner

“We are thrilled to emphasize Dr. Bonner,” said John Mitchell, executive director for the Red Cross Heart of Tennessee Chapter. “If you have been to any fundraisers, events, or dinners to support our local community, then you’ve without a doubt seen Dr. Gloria Bonner. Dr. Bonner has been a pillar in the Murfreesboro Community for over 40 years as a teacher, researcher and administrator while also being involved in creative activities and community service.” Bonner retired as Assistant to the President in the Office of University Community Relations. She is a member of the President’s Cabinet at MTSU. Murfreesboro Rotary member and past president.  
  
If you are interested in sponsoring a table for this event contact John Mitchell, executive director at 615-651-3405 or by email at john.mitchell2@redcross.org. If you would like additional information to attend the event, go to redcross.org/heartoftnheroes. 
  
About the American Red Cross 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.