Acorn readers react with compassion for Thousand Oaks man and his dog
By Nancy Needham  nancy@theacorn.com

A steady stream of Thousand Oaks Acorn readers went to the aid of Larry Mack last week.

An outpouring of concern came when the community learned that Mack, 73, was facing an uncertain future after the fishing supply store he'd owned for 22 years closed. He'd been spending nights in the back room of Conejo Custom Tackle, 664 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., and didn't know where he was going to sleep in the future, he said.

Not having a job or a home at his age seemed almost like an insurmountable challenge for him. He said he's suffered strokes, heart attacks and has a breathing disorder.

Mack had never married or had children. He has a few family members in other states but felt they weren't in the position to help him.

Just before the Feb. 15 deadline, Mack's landlord gave him a little more time to get his life in order before having to leave. The store is pretty much stripped of its merchandise. About all that is left is a row of Mack's clothes that line a rack at the front of the store with a "Not for Sale" sign.

In the back of the store he has tiny, well-organized drawers that hold items used to repair fishing reels. He had held on to that just in case it might come in handy in the future, and maybe it did. Mack said he was very excited because someone who owns fishing boats has offered him a job repairing their fishing equipment.

"I'm so excited to think I might still be of some use," Mack said.

Among the people filing in to give Mack some money for a place to live was a well-dressed couple who insisted Mack take what they called a "Valentine's gift." The couple asked to remain anonymous.

The proud elderly gentleman didn't find it easy to accept their generosity, but did so after they wouldn't take no for an answer.

"I need to teach Larry how to just smile and say thank you," his friend Tim Overstreet said.

Another person came in and tried to explain to Mack there were government programs that he could apply for. Mack listened and then explained, "I am obstinately independent. I want to get by with the least amount of government help possible. I'm hoping to get another job."

She was almost as insistent as he was.

"I think you might have to start thinking about it being time for you to sit down and accept some help," she told him.

A woman dropped by with a strawberry cake. Church groups, pastors and others also came by to help him, Mack said.

"I am so happy to see there are so many good people willing to help other people--not just me. I think they would help anyone in need and that makes me feel good to know they still are out there, those good people who care about others," Mack said.

A checking account has been opened in his name for those who would like to make a donation. Send checks made out to Larry Mack to Santa Barbara Bank and Trust, 101 N. Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village, CA 91362.

Mack is hoping to find a HUD-subsidized apartment, but typically there's a waiting list for that kind of housing.

If anyone knows a method for speeding up the process, Mack would appreciate hearing about it. Also, if possible, he needs a place where he can work with solvent and grease, which are required for maintenance of fishing reels. And, of course, he needs a place that would let him keep his dog, Scubbers.

To get hold of Mack, go to Conejo Custom Tackle, 664 E Thousand Oaks Blvd. If he's gone, he might leave a sign in the window telling where he can be reached.

His phone number at the shop is (805) 373-6974.