As the New Year comes in, let me express my deep gratitude to all of you who listen to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" each weekday on WHEO. I feel blessed to be able to serve the people of Patrick County while doing what I really love to do at the same time. I certainly have a passion for my job but I will never take it for granted. My work is a blessing to which I will always give my very best, constantly God's guidance and direction that my service to you will be pleasing in His sight and a blessing to you too!
As we enter the New Year, the radio station is still on the market for sale. Please pray that God will place it in the hands of responsible new management that will continue its rich tradition of service to the local community. This little country radio station is one of our most valuable community resources that we should all use and strive to support.
I am always looking for ways to improve the morning show. Please let me know if you have ideas and suggestions. Thanks for the very positive feedback that I constantly receive to what we are trying to do.
I hope to welcome many interesting guests to my show in the coming year to keep you better informed about what's happening in our county. In January, I have already invited or plan to invite all of the newly elected public officials to appear on "Community Conversation." I have already received commitments to appear on the show from newly elected Commonwealth's Attorney Stephanie Brenegar, new-elected Sheriff Dan Smith, and new-elected Blue Ridge District Supervisor Carl Weiss. Ronald Knight, the new Mayor River District Supervisor, and to Smith River District Supervisor Crystal Harris, have both told me that they would welcome the opportunity to be on the show but the dates of their appearances have yet to be established. I also plan to invite Jonathan Large, the chairman of the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, and members of the Patrick County School Board to appear sometime during the coming year. Of course, Lock Boyce, the newly-elected Peters Creek District Supervisor, is my guest each Monday morning on "Patrick County Topics".
I believe that we have seated a group of highly qualified individuals who will lead our county into a bright 2008. I urge everyone in the county to keep abreast of what is happening through the news media or other means and to communicate your desires frequently to your elected officials. They have been elected to serve us, the taxpayers of the county!
I plan to continue my series of "Richard on the Road" reports in the coming year as I travel the county in search of interesting people and places. Coming up in January will be a series of features based on my visit to Ohio last spring as a guest of the popular local gospel group, the Southern Prophets. This 8-part series will include profiles of each of the 4 members of the group, Denny Archer, Bobby Gardner, Dwayne George, and Mike Hall, as well as serious and light-hearted aspects of our trip to the Buckeye State, which was one of my personal highlights of the year. This series will be titled "The Southern Prophets: A Ministry of Minstrels." Following the Southern Prophets features, I plan to do a series of stories on the popular hobby of postcard collecting based on interviews with members of the Reynolds Homestead Post Card Club. If you have an ideas for features in the "Richard on the Road" series, please let me know. I have met many interesting people and made lots of new friends in my travels around the county in this series. It sure would help, though, if the price of gasoline would go down instead of in the opposite direction in which it seems to be headed as the New Year begins.
Speaking of travel, if you plan to party on New Year's Eve or anytime, please drink responsibly if you have to drink at all and NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE.
I am praying for your prosperity and peace in the coming year. Happy New Year, my friends and neighbors. Have a "great" 2008!
God bless you all.
Richard
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Pressing on in the War on Cancer!
As we experience the joys of the holiday season and look forward with hope to the New Year, let's remember that there are many in our community who are less fortunate and in need of our prayers. Having a passion to defeat cancer, the dreaded disease that took my wife Sandra from me almost a year and a half ago, I am especially mindful of those who are battling cancer today and requesting your prayers on their behalf.
One such person is my long-time friend, Mr. Don Sall, one of the most dedicated community servants that I have ever met. Even though Mr. Sall is not a native Patrick Countian, he has certainly become one of us since he and his late wife, Eleanor, who was an equally wonderul person, came here from "up north." Don has done marvelous things for our community. Most notably, perhaps, he has made the Red Cross blood collection effort in Patrick County one of the most successful programs in the region, an exemplary effort that other communities can only aspire to duplicate. Mr. Sall is also a member of Mountain Home Masonic Lodge No. 263 in Stuart. He is a most caring and concerned individual who would do anything within his power to help others in our community.
Mr. Sall is suffering from a rare bone cancer, and, like so many other cancer patients in our community, he is in need of our prayers. Mr. Sall is preparing to go to Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore, MD, one of the top 3 medical facilities in the country, to get a second opinion about the next phase in his treatment for his cancer. He says that doctors have told him that radiation and chemotherapy will not help him, and that his best option now may be to have his left hip and leg removed to prevent gangreen from setting in. He is going to Johns Hopkins to get a second opinion and to explore whether there have been any recent breakthroughs that might be effective in the treatment of his cancer. Mr. Sall's situation looks bleak but he is a man of great faith and optimism and has a wonderful attitude. He has turned his situation over to God's wisdom and grace. We can all look to Mr. Sall as a great example of courage and determination as well as of brotherly love and service to one another. Please remember Mr. Sall in your prayers. Get well cards may be send to Mr. Sall at his residence at 1410 Hazelwood Dr., Stuart, VA 241712.
I am personally honored to know Mr. Sall, to work with him in promoting blood drives and other worthwhile causes in our community, and to call him my friend. I strive daily to be more like Mr. Sall in my dealings with others. He is truly an example of what I, as a Stuart Rotary Club member, strive to offer to others, "service above self" (our club motto). God bless you, Mr. Sall, we are behind you and building a "wall of prayer" around you.
I would again like to urge you to pray for 3-year-old Samantha Mota, who has been diagnosed with a cancerous left eye that will be removed at Duke University Hospital in Durham on Jan. 2nd. While this little girl will be covered with health insurance, provided by her father, Marcus Mota, effective Jan. 1st, and has secured Medicaid coverage through the local social services agency, as I understand, there are still expenses related to her treatment and travels to and from the hospital, that this family of limited means, may have difficulty handling. An account has been opened at SunTrust Bank in the name of Samantha's mother, Amanda Adkins, if you feel led to assist monetarily. If you would like to send Samantha a get well card, send it to: Amanda Adkins, P.O. Box 536, Patrick Springs 24133. Amanda has requested nothing other than our heartfelt prayers for her daughter's recovery and good health. Please lift this little girl up to the "Great Physician" in prayer.
I would also ask that you continue to remember our friend Sandra Health, a breast cancer patient, in prayer as she prepares for the first of 6 rounds of chemotherapy in January. We praise God that Sandra's last report from her doctors was a good one. Pray for Sandra and her husband, Randy, their two children, and other family members as they face this "stumbling block" in what we hope will be a long and happy life for all. Sandra lives at 1993 Elk Creek Rd., Stuart, VA 24171, if you'd like to send her a card. Hang in their, Sandra, you are on your way to victory by KNOCKOUT in your personal bout with cancer.
Cancer is so pervasive in our community and throughout our society. One of every 3 people will be diagnosed with cancer sometime in their life. It doesn't have to be so. I am confident that more effective treatments will be perfected and that ultimately a cure for cancer will be found. But it is up to us to battle back! We can all have an impact in the fight to eradicate the world of cancer, both individually and as a community. I humbly ask all concerned persons in our community to join me and other American Cancer Society supporters and Relay for Life volunteers in the fight against cancer. The 2008 Relay for Life campaign will be launched in January with a goal of $52,000. Let's continue the momentum started in 2007 and more than exceed that goal. Please consider forming a new Relay for Life team to represent your school, business, civic organization, club, family, or other organization in our community, or by becoming a member of an existing Relay team.
The local Relay for Life teams will be providing concessions at the Patrick County Music Association Jamboree on Jan. 26th at Rotary Field, Stuart, as one of our first fund-raisers. Our annual WHEO radio-thon, which contributed almost $18,000 to the $62,000 plus Relay for Life total raised in 2007, will be held just before the Relay for Life event at DeHart Park in May 2008. Please support these and other Relay for Life fundraisers in the coming year by the more than 30 Relay teams in our community. Most of all pray for the success of Patrick County's outstanding Relay for Life program, which earned the county national recognition as the program with the largest increase in funds raised, a jump of over 425% in 2007. We can't rest on these laurels, though, it is time to get to work to raise the money needed to serve those like Don Sall, Samantha Mota, Sandra Health, and other cancer patients and their caregivers, and, most of all, to find a cure so we will never have to face this devastating disease again! Thank you for you prayers and your support of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life 2008 in Patrick County.
An enthusiastic WHEO "Kilowatt for a Cure,"
Richard
One such person is my long-time friend, Mr. Don Sall, one of the most dedicated community servants that I have ever met. Even though Mr. Sall is not a native Patrick Countian, he has certainly become one of us since he and his late wife, Eleanor, who was an equally wonderul person, came here from "up north." Don has done marvelous things for our community. Most notably, perhaps, he has made the Red Cross blood collection effort in Patrick County one of the most successful programs in the region, an exemplary effort that other communities can only aspire to duplicate. Mr. Sall is also a member of Mountain Home Masonic Lodge No. 263 in Stuart. He is a most caring and concerned individual who would do anything within his power to help others in our community.
Mr. Sall is suffering from a rare bone cancer, and, like so many other cancer patients in our community, he is in need of our prayers. Mr. Sall is preparing to go to Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore, MD, one of the top 3 medical facilities in the country, to get a second opinion about the next phase in his treatment for his cancer. He says that doctors have told him that radiation and chemotherapy will not help him, and that his best option now may be to have his left hip and leg removed to prevent gangreen from setting in. He is going to Johns Hopkins to get a second opinion and to explore whether there have been any recent breakthroughs that might be effective in the treatment of his cancer. Mr. Sall's situation looks bleak but he is a man of great faith and optimism and has a wonderful attitude. He has turned his situation over to God's wisdom and grace. We can all look to Mr. Sall as a great example of courage and determination as well as of brotherly love and service to one another. Please remember Mr. Sall in your prayers. Get well cards may be send to Mr. Sall at his residence at 1410 Hazelwood Dr., Stuart, VA 241712.
I am personally honored to know Mr. Sall, to work with him in promoting blood drives and other worthwhile causes in our community, and to call him my friend. I strive daily to be more like Mr. Sall in my dealings with others. He is truly an example of what I, as a Stuart Rotary Club member, strive to offer to others, "service above self" (our club motto). God bless you, Mr. Sall, we are behind you and building a "wall of prayer" around you.
I would again like to urge you to pray for 3-year-old Samantha Mota, who has been diagnosed with a cancerous left eye that will be removed at Duke University Hospital in Durham on Jan. 2nd. While this little girl will be covered with health insurance, provided by her father, Marcus Mota, effective Jan. 1st, and has secured Medicaid coverage through the local social services agency, as I understand, there are still expenses related to her treatment and travels to and from the hospital, that this family of limited means, may have difficulty handling. An account has been opened at SunTrust Bank in the name of Samantha's mother, Amanda Adkins, if you feel led to assist monetarily. If you would like to send Samantha a get well card, send it to: Amanda Adkins, P.O. Box 536, Patrick Springs 24133. Amanda has requested nothing other than our heartfelt prayers for her daughter's recovery and good health. Please lift this little girl up to the "Great Physician" in prayer.
I would also ask that you continue to remember our friend Sandra Health, a breast cancer patient, in prayer as she prepares for the first of 6 rounds of chemotherapy in January. We praise God that Sandra's last report from her doctors was a good one. Pray for Sandra and her husband, Randy, their two children, and other family members as they face this "stumbling block" in what we hope will be a long and happy life for all. Sandra lives at 1993 Elk Creek Rd., Stuart, VA 24171, if you'd like to send her a card. Hang in their, Sandra, you are on your way to victory by KNOCKOUT in your personal bout with cancer.
Cancer is so pervasive in our community and throughout our society. One of every 3 people will be diagnosed with cancer sometime in their life. It doesn't have to be so. I am confident that more effective treatments will be perfected and that ultimately a cure for cancer will be found. But it is up to us to battle back! We can all have an impact in the fight to eradicate the world of cancer, both individually and as a community. I humbly ask all concerned persons in our community to join me and other American Cancer Society supporters and Relay for Life volunteers in the fight against cancer. The 2008 Relay for Life campaign will be launched in January with a goal of $52,000. Let's continue the momentum started in 2007 and more than exceed that goal. Please consider forming a new Relay for Life team to represent your school, business, civic organization, club, family, or other organization in our community, or by becoming a member of an existing Relay team.
The local Relay for Life teams will be providing concessions at the Patrick County Music Association Jamboree on Jan. 26th at Rotary Field, Stuart, as one of our first fund-raisers. Our annual WHEO radio-thon, which contributed almost $18,000 to the $62,000 plus Relay for Life total raised in 2007, will be held just before the Relay for Life event at DeHart Park in May 2008. Please support these and other Relay for Life fundraisers in the coming year by the more than 30 Relay teams in our community. Most of all pray for the success of Patrick County's outstanding Relay for Life program, which earned the county national recognition as the program with the largest increase in funds raised, a jump of over 425% in 2007. We can't rest on these laurels, though, it is time to get to work to raise the money needed to serve those like Don Sall, Samantha Mota, Sandra Health, and other cancer patients and their caregivers, and, most of all, to find a cure so we will never have to face this devastating disease again! Thank you for you prayers and your support of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life 2008 in Patrick County.
An enthusiastic WHEO "Kilowatt for a Cure,"
Richard
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Christmas Is....
As Christmas and the New Year draw near, I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank each of you who so faithfully listen to my radio show each morning. Spending those precious hours at the start of each new day with you and in service to you is my passion and my life! I am not the most talented radio personality in the world but I can truly say that I always try to do my job to the very best of my ability, and to gratefully, wisely, and productively use the gifts that God has given me. Each morning before I go on the air I say a prayer for you, my listeners, and ask God to empower me to say and do those things that would be an encouragement to you and to be pleasing in His sight. I am truly blessed to do what I love to do and to serve others in so doing. Thank you all so much for listening to me, praying for me, and showing me so many kindnesses. I hope that God will allow me to continue to serve you and to be his witness on the radio for many years to come. I wish I had the time and resources to send each one of you a personal Christmas card and gift to show my appreciation. Since that is not possible (small market radio annoucers work long hours but don't make a lot of money), I can only send you this sincere message of my gratitude and love. Thank you again, each member of my beloved radio audience for your caring, concern, and support. You are as much a part of my family and my life as are my own biological family members. God bless each of you at Christmas and in the coming year!
As is more and more evident each holiday season, Christmas is extremely overcomercialized. Be that as it may, however, there is nothing wrong with retailers trying to make our dollars and us spending them to give nice gifts to the ones we love, and, hopefully, to those less fortunate. I hope that you all receive the Christmas presents that your hearts most fondly desire and that you will long treasure. Let's all just remember to put this material side of our lives into proper perspective, and do not let it overshadow the most important part of our being, our spiritual lives. Unlike the worldly, material aspect of our lives which is temporary and fleeting, the spiritual side of our lives is the part that has everlasting value. This is the aspect of our lives that we should nourish and cultivate. It is eternal!
Christmas, first and foremost, is about Christ! It is all about Jesus Christ, our Savior, who was born in Bethlehem of a teenaged virgin to live on Earth for some 33 years as God among men, setting an example of sinless love and service to mankind before He, out of love for each of us, died on Calvary's cross to atone for our sins and to deliver the promise of eternal life to all who place their faith and trust in Him. As we renew the tradition of the giving of gifts to those that we love this Christmas, let's remember that the greatest gift that we will ever receive is the blessing of Jesus. To joyfully embrace Jesus and to put Him above all else, especially over our selfish human desires, is to experience what Christmas is all about. This year, really experience Christmas, experience Jesus!
Happy birthday, my precious Jesus! Merry Christmas, my dear listeners and friends!
Love in Christ,
Richard
As is more and more evident each holiday season, Christmas is extremely overcomercialized. Be that as it may, however, there is nothing wrong with retailers trying to make our dollars and us spending them to give nice gifts to the ones we love, and, hopefully, to those less fortunate. I hope that you all receive the Christmas presents that your hearts most fondly desire and that you will long treasure. Let's all just remember to put this material side of our lives into proper perspective, and do not let it overshadow the most important part of our being, our spiritual lives. Unlike the worldly, material aspect of our lives which is temporary and fleeting, the spiritual side of our lives is the part that has everlasting value. This is the aspect of our lives that we should nourish and cultivate. It is eternal!
Christmas, first and foremost, is about Christ! It is all about Jesus Christ, our Savior, who was born in Bethlehem of a teenaged virgin to live on Earth for some 33 years as God among men, setting an example of sinless love and service to mankind before He, out of love for each of us, died on Calvary's cross to atone for our sins and to deliver the promise of eternal life to all who place their faith and trust in Him. As we renew the tradition of the giving of gifts to those that we love this Christmas, let's remember that the greatest gift that we will ever receive is the blessing of Jesus. To joyfully embrace Jesus and to put Him above all else, especially over our selfish human desires, is to experience what Christmas is all about. This year, really experience Christmas, experience Jesus!
Happy birthday, my precious Jesus! Merry Christmas, my dear listeners and friends!
Love in Christ,
Richard
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Way to Go, Kenny & Amanda!
Congratulations to bluegrass artists and Patrick County residents Kenny and Amanda Smith! Their bluegrass and gospel group, The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band, has been nominated for a Grammy, one of the most prestigious awards in the music industry, for their first gospel CD "Tell Someone".
"I started crying," said Amanda when she first heard the good news from a representative of Rebel Records for which they have recorded 3 albums including the Grammy nominee. "It just seems like a fairytale," she added, noting that the honor probably won't sink in until their plane touches down in Los Angeles. Kenny and Amanda will fly to L.A. for the 50th Grammy Awards on Sun., Feb. 10th. They'll go up against some very stiff competition including multiple Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs and others. However, their Grammy nominated recording is outstanding and could well take the award for Best Southern Country, or Bluegrass Gospel Album, the category in which they are nominated. Win or not, the nomination is a monumental accomplishment for any artist and will only boost the career of a very fine and deserving band. "It's such an honor," said Kenny of the Grammy nomination. "That's one of the highest honors" we've ever gotten, he added.
Kenny is no stranger to awards. He is a 2-time International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Guitarist of the year. Kenny Smith is also widely considered one of the most important and influential flatpicking-style guitarists of his generation. Amanda has a wonderful voice, having grown up singing in church choirs and participating in talent contests at local fairs. To me, it seems that their voices were meant for each other, as the duo create some of the tightest and most beautiful harmonies imagionable. The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band was nominated for the IBMA's prestigious Emerging Artist of the Year award in 2003. With their Grammy nomination, the band has truly emerged!
About 400 music fans braved the cold rain and threat of icy weather Saturday night to hear two live performances by The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band, the headlining act at the Patrick County Music Association's (PCMA)Holiday Jamboree at Rotary Field in Stuart. Kenny and Amanda love performing before enthusiastic and appreciating PCMA audiences. While neither Kenny nor Amanda have families in this area, they have many friends and supportive neighbors. "We feel like we have family here," said Kenny. Kenny and Amanda are genuinely wonderful people and I am glad that they chose to make Patrick County (Vesta) their home. I am very proud of this talented couple and their band (Aaron Williams of Blacksburg, VA, on mandolin and Zachary McLamb, a Benson, NC native who plays bass), and honored to play their music and interview them on my radio show. Go get 'em, Kenny and Amanda, and bring home a Grammy to Patrick County!
Until next time, may God bless you all a "great day"!
Richard
"I started crying," said Amanda when she first heard the good news from a representative of Rebel Records for which they have recorded 3 albums including the Grammy nominee. "It just seems like a fairytale," she added, noting that the honor probably won't sink in until their plane touches down in Los Angeles. Kenny and Amanda will fly to L.A. for the 50th Grammy Awards on Sun., Feb. 10th. They'll go up against some very stiff competition including multiple Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs and others. However, their Grammy nominated recording is outstanding and could well take the award for Best Southern Country, or Bluegrass Gospel Album, the category in which they are nominated. Win or not, the nomination is a monumental accomplishment for any artist and will only boost the career of a very fine and deserving band. "It's such an honor," said Kenny of the Grammy nomination. "That's one of the highest honors" we've ever gotten, he added.
Kenny is no stranger to awards. He is a 2-time International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Guitarist of the year. Kenny Smith is also widely considered one of the most important and influential flatpicking-style guitarists of his generation. Amanda has a wonderful voice, having grown up singing in church choirs and participating in talent contests at local fairs. To me, it seems that their voices were meant for each other, as the duo create some of the tightest and most beautiful harmonies imagionable. The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band was nominated for the IBMA's prestigious Emerging Artist of the Year award in 2003. With their Grammy nomination, the band has truly emerged!
About 400 music fans braved the cold rain and threat of icy weather Saturday night to hear two live performances by The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band, the headlining act at the Patrick County Music Association's (PCMA)Holiday Jamboree at Rotary Field in Stuart. Kenny and Amanda love performing before enthusiastic and appreciating PCMA audiences. While neither Kenny nor Amanda have families in this area, they have many friends and supportive neighbors. "We feel like we have family here," said Kenny. Kenny and Amanda are genuinely wonderful people and I am glad that they chose to make Patrick County (Vesta) their home. I am very proud of this talented couple and their band (Aaron Williams of Blacksburg, VA, on mandolin and Zachary McLamb, a Benson, NC native who plays bass), and honored to play their music and interview them on my radio show. Go get 'em, Kenny and Amanda, and bring home a Grammy to Patrick County!
Until next time, may God bless you all a "great day"!
Richard
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Spreading "Cheer" to Hundreds
Thanks to the generosity of many caring people in our community and the tireless efforts of a troupe of dedicated Christmas Cheer volunteers, Christmas will be much brighter this year for a total of 577 disadvantaged children (in 279 families) in Patrick County. The recipients...children ranging in age from newborn to 12 years old...were selected based on applications that were distributed through the Patrick County Department of Social Services and Patrick County Public Schools.
Distribution of the Christmas Cheer gifts to these children will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 18th. Each applicant will receive a letter regarding the exact date, time, and place of pick-up, said Brenda Strum, a spokesperson for Christmas Cheer. Gifts will not be wrapped or delivered. All unclaimed items will be distributed to other families, she added.
If you would like to support Christmas Cheer with a monetary donation, please make your check payable to Patrick County Christmas Cheer, PO Box 222, Stuart, VA 24171. Christmas Cheer will accept new, unwrapped toys along with new clothing with tags still attached. You may drop off your clothing and toy donations at the Patrick County Extension Office in the Patrick County Veteran's Memorial Building, Suite 316, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (office closed from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch). Donations must be received by 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14. The Patrick County Extension Office is strictly a drop off point for new donations. Please do not call the office regarding information about your child's application, said Strum.
Thanks to the many businesses, individuals, and organizations in our community who have supported the 2007 Christmas Cheer campaign that will truly be a blessing to hundreds of Patrick County children whose Christmas might have been rather bleak otherwise. God will reward your generosity and assistance in this and other charitable projects that make our community a better place in which to live!
Merry Christmas!
Richard
Distribution of the Christmas Cheer gifts to these children will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 18th. Each applicant will receive a letter regarding the exact date, time, and place of pick-up, said Brenda Strum, a spokesperson for Christmas Cheer. Gifts will not be wrapped or delivered. All unclaimed items will be distributed to other families, she added.
If you would like to support Christmas Cheer with a monetary donation, please make your check payable to Patrick County Christmas Cheer, PO Box 222, Stuart, VA 24171. Christmas Cheer will accept new, unwrapped toys along with new clothing with tags still attached. You may drop off your clothing and toy donations at the Patrick County Extension Office in the Patrick County Veteran's Memorial Building, Suite 316, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (office closed from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch). Donations must be received by 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14. The Patrick County Extension Office is strictly a drop off point for new donations. Please do not call the office regarding information about your child's application, said Strum.
Thanks to the many businesses, individuals, and organizations in our community who have supported the 2007 Christmas Cheer campaign that will truly be a blessing to hundreds of Patrick County children whose Christmas might have been rather bleak otherwise. God will reward your generosity and assistance in this and other charitable projects that make our community a better place in which to live!
Merry Christmas!
Richard
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Employing the Power of Prayer!
As I have said many times in the past, prayers requests are always welcome on my radio show. I also plan to use this blog spot to address needs for prayer in our community. I would like to request your prayers for several folks in our community who are facing health issues.
I was shocked and saddened to learn on my radio show this morning that one of Patrick County's finest public servants, Buddy Dollarhite, has been diagnosed with leukemia and is undergoing treatment at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. His tearful mother, Ola Dollarhite, told my radio audience this morning that Buddy learned of his disease Tuesday and was hospitalized immediately.
Buddy is one of the most humble, kind, and community-involved persons in our community through his job as manager of Lowe's Foods, his position as chief of the Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, and as a supporter of many worthwhile community causes, including Patrick County United Fund and others. Buddy has never sought any personal glory for what he does for our community. He simply works tirelessly outside the glow of the limelight to make our community a better place in which to live and a safer one too. Buddy is a community treasure indeed.
I am so sorry to hear this distressing news of Buddy's illness. However, I am encouraged that God responds to our prayers and that "all things work together for good" to those who place their faith and trust in him.
Please lift Buddy up to our Heavenly Father asking that God bless him, his mother Ola, and his family, and that the Lord will give his physicians the knowledge and skill to care for him and nurse him back to good health.
If you would like to send him a card, you may bring them to Donna Rogers, secretary at Stuart United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. You may also send them directly to the hospital: WFUBMC, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, Attn: 9 Reynolds, Buddy Dollarhite. Thank your for your prayers for Buddy and his family, your cards, and other kindnesses that you feel led to offer him during this time of uncertainty in his life.
I would also like to convey to you a request for prayer from my friend Sandra Health. She made this prayer request known to me in a nice letter that accompanied a very thoughtful Christmas card from her family to me.
At age 38, a wife and young mother of boys, ages 4 and 1, Sandra was diagnosed with "DCIS Stage 0 breast cancer" in October. She had surgery last month to remove cancer cells, tissue and 3 sentinel nodes. The pathology report, Sandra said in her letter, "showed that it had moved out of the milk duct and a small cell was found in tissue and in 1 of the sentinel nodes, therefore it is Stage II now."
Sandra has surgery scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 6 at 11 a.m. to remove lymph nodes and more tissue to be sure that it hasn't moved thus far. Sandra noted that she will still have to have chemotherapy (probably beginning in January) no matter what the results are. "I am trying to maintain a positive attitude and have a great support system around me. Let's all pray that Sandra will have a "Praise Report" next week following her surgery and pathology report.
Sandra asked me to let everyone know that she would like special prayer sent up for her, the surgeon, and that the pathology report comes back "clear." "I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, cards, calls and visits," said Sandra.
Both Sandra and Buddy relatively young community leaders who are in the prime of their lives and their careers. I am sure that God is working through them and others like them to accomplish His will and to bring overall good to our community. We can all draw inspiration from their courage and determination to defeat their diseases and resume their normal lives. Please keep both Sandra and Buddy in your prayers. God bless you both!
If you too would like to enlist the priceless resource of a caring community to put up a "wall of prayer" around others like Sandra and Buddy, please contact me. You may call me at the station at (276) 694-3114 or at home at 694-7856. My email address is rrogers@sitestar.net This blog and my radio show are both avenues that I invite everyone in our community to use in "employing the power of prayer"!
Proud of Patrick,
Richard
PS: Again I would like to ask you to pray for Winnie Smith who will also undergo surgery Thursday, Dec. 6, in connection with the broken ankle she sustained recently while stepping off her porch.
PSS: Keep me in your prayers too, asking that God will guide and direct me and strengthen my faith.
I was shocked and saddened to learn on my radio show this morning that one of Patrick County's finest public servants, Buddy Dollarhite, has been diagnosed with leukemia and is undergoing treatment at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. His tearful mother, Ola Dollarhite, told my radio audience this morning that Buddy learned of his disease Tuesday and was hospitalized immediately.
Buddy is one of the most humble, kind, and community-involved persons in our community through his job as manager of Lowe's Foods, his position as chief of the Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, and as a supporter of many worthwhile community causes, including Patrick County United Fund and others. Buddy has never sought any personal glory for what he does for our community. He simply works tirelessly outside the glow of the limelight to make our community a better place in which to live and a safer one too. Buddy is a community treasure indeed.
I am so sorry to hear this distressing news of Buddy's illness. However, I am encouraged that God responds to our prayers and that "all things work together for good" to those who place their faith and trust in him.
Please lift Buddy up to our Heavenly Father asking that God bless him, his mother Ola, and his family, and that the Lord will give his physicians the knowledge and skill to care for him and nurse him back to good health.
If you would like to send him a card, you may bring them to Donna Rogers, secretary at Stuart United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. You may also send them directly to the hospital: WFUBMC, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, Attn: 9 Reynolds, Buddy Dollarhite. Thank your for your prayers for Buddy and his family, your cards, and other kindnesses that you feel led to offer him during this time of uncertainty in his life.
I would also like to convey to you a request for prayer from my friend Sandra Health. She made this prayer request known to me in a nice letter that accompanied a very thoughtful Christmas card from her family to me.
At age 38, a wife and young mother of boys, ages 4 and 1, Sandra was diagnosed with "DCIS Stage 0 breast cancer" in October. She had surgery last month to remove cancer cells, tissue and 3 sentinel nodes. The pathology report, Sandra said in her letter, "showed that it had moved out of the milk duct and a small cell was found in tissue and in 1 of the sentinel nodes, therefore it is Stage II now."
Sandra has surgery scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 6 at 11 a.m. to remove lymph nodes and more tissue to be sure that it hasn't moved thus far. Sandra noted that she will still have to have chemotherapy (probably beginning in January) no matter what the results are. "I am trying to maintain a positive attitude and have a great support system around me. Let's all pray that Sandra will have a "Praise Report" next week following her surgery and pathology report.
Sandra asked me to let everyone know that she would like special prayer sent up for her, the surgeon, and that the pathology report comes back "clear." "I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, cards, calls and visits," said Sandra.
Both Sandra and Buddy relatively young community leaders who are in the prime of their lives and their careers. I am sure that God is working through them and others like them to accomplish His will and to bring overall good to our community. We can all draw inspiration from their courage and determination to defeat their diseases and resume their normal lives. Please keep both Sandra and Buddy in your prayers. God bless you both!
If you too would like to enlist the priceless resource of a caring community to put up a "wall of prayer" around others like Sandra and Buddy, please contact me. You may call me at the station at (276) 694-3114 or at home at 694-7856. My email address is rrogers@sitestar.net This blog and my radio show are both avenues that I invite everyone in our community to use in "employing the power of prayer"!
Proud of Patrick,
Richard
PS: Again I would like to ask you to pray for Winnie Smith who will also undergo surgery Thursday, Dec. 6, in connection with the broken ankle she sustained recently while stepping off her porch.
PSS: Keep me in your prayers too, asking that God will guide and direct me and strengthen my faith.
Monday, December 3, 2007
A Parade to be Proud of!
Thumbs up for the parade! Saturday's (Dec. 1st) annual Patrick County Christmas parade in Stuart was the best I've ever witnessed! Actually, it's hard to see the parade when you're walking in it, but I know it was a premiere parade because of the smiles on the faces of the many people that lined the streets of Stuart to watch the holiday procession on a beautifully crisp, ideal afternoon for a parade. As a parade participant, I was among those "footsoldiers in the fight against cancer" who walked in the parade in support of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.
The parade reviews have been universally favorable with everyone commenting about the high quality and variety of the approximately 125 entries. I commend Galen Gilbert and the many others who assisted in organizing the parade and especially those that participated in the event and watched it. It was especially wonderful to see the joy in the eyes of children as they get into the holiday spirit and anticipate the coming of Santa Claus in just 3 weeks. I've never seen so much candy flying as was tossed to parade spectators by the participants from the floats, cars, and other vehicles entered.
Congratulations to these winning entrants: Best Float--Stuart Concrete...Best Religious Float, Peter's Creek Baptist Church (Way to go guys and gals...this is my church and the float promoted the upcoming outdoor drama, "Hallelujah Praise the Lamb" to be presented Sat., Dec. 8 at 6 and 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 9, at 6 p.m. Y'all come and see this inspirational outdoor drama.) The top 3 fire department entries were: Moorefield Store Volunteer Fire Department, Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, and Patrick Springs Volunteer Fire Department. The top 3 rescue squad entries were: JEB Stuart Rescue Squad, Smith River Rescue Squad, and CCDF Fire and Rescue.
In addition to putting everyone in the Christmas spirit, the parade was apparently good for hometown businesses. The estimated 3,000 people or more that crowded the town's streets boosted commerce in the town business district Saturday. One merchant said it was his busiest day of the year.
It was wonderful to see Sheriff David Hubbard who rode in the Patrick County Sheriff's Department cruiser that escorted the procession. Hubbard told me that it was great to be out on such a beautiful day. Please continue to keep this retiring public servant in your prayers as he continues to recuperate from a long and very serious illness.
Another delightful highlight was seeing Gladys Akers, a soon-to-be 98 year old resident of the Landmark Center in Stuart, who rode in the parade. Ms. Akers was the first Miss Patrick County in 1935! What a dear lady!
I also enjoyed the Pride of Patrick County, the Patrick County High School Marching Cougars, who ushered in the holiday season by marching and performing in the parade.
It was a great start to the Patrick County Christmas celebration and a parade of which we should all be proud.
While Christmas gifts, parades, Santa, lights, decorations, tinsel, and other aspects of the Yuletide season are nice, let's keep firmly in our minds this Christmas that we are celebrating the birth of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ, through whom God has given us as believers the greatest gift that we will ever receive, the gift of salvation and the hope of eternal life! Now that is something to celebrate!
Be joyful,
Richard
The parade reviews have been universally favorable with everyone commenting about the high quality and variety of the approximately 125 entries. I commend Galen Gilbert and the many others who assisted in organizing the parade and especially those that participated in the event and watched it. It was especially wonderful to see the joy in the eyes of children as they get into the holiday spirit and anticipate the coming of Santa Claus in just 3 weeks. I've never seen so much candy flying as was tossed to parade spectators by the participants from the floats, cars, and other vehicles entered.
Congratulations to these winning entrants: Best Float--Stuart Concrete...Best Religious Float, Peter's Creek Baptist Church (Way to go guys and gals...this is my church and the float promoted the upcoming outdoor drama, "Hallelujah Praise the Lamb" to be presented Sat., Dec. 8 at 6 and 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 9, at 6 p.m. Y'all come and see this inspirational outdoor drama.) The top 3 fire department entries were: Moorefield Store Volunteer Fire Department, Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, and Patrick Springs Volunteer Fire Department. The top 3 rescue squad entries were: JEB Stuart Rescue Squad, Smith River Rescue Squad, and CCDF Fire and Rescue.
In addition to putting everyone in the Christmas spirit, the parade was apparently good for hometown businesses. The estimated 3,000 people or more that crowded the town's streets boosted commerce in the town business district Saturday. One merchant said it was his busiest day of the year.
It was wonderful to see Sheriff David Hubbard who rode in the Patrick County Sheriff's Department cruiser that escorted the procession. Hubbard told me that it was great to be out on such a beautiful day. Please continue to keep this retiring public servant in your prayers as he continues to recuperate from a long and very serious illness.
Another delightful highlight was seeing Gladys Akers, a soon-to-be 98 year old resident of the Landmark Center in Stuart, who rode in the parade. Ms. Akers was the first Miss Patrick County in 1935! What a dear lady!
I also enjoyed the Pride of Patrick County, the Patrick County High School Marching Cougars, who ushered in the holiday season by marching and performing in the parade.
It was a great start to the Patrick County Christmas celebration and a parade of which we should all be proud.
While Christmas gifts, parades, Santa, lights, decorations, tinsel, and other aspects of the Yuletide season are nice, let's keep firmly in our minds this Christmas that we are celebrating the birth of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ, through whom God has given us as believers the greatest gift that we will ever receive, the gift of salvation and the hope of eternal life! Now that is something to celebrate!
Be joyful,
Richard
Monday, November 26, 2007
Thick as Molasses!
An annual rite of autumn concluded Saturday as Mr. Clyde Brown, our WHEO Critz weather spotter, and his freinds and neighbors made the last batch of molasses of the fall season. I attended three of the molasses making sessions under the sturdy shelter at Mr. Brown's Railroad Ln. residence and thoroughly enjoyed this nostalgic experience. The 83-year-old Mr. Brown and his friends and neighbors are doing our community and the Blue Ridge Mountains region a favor by laboring to preserve the dying art of making molasses. We need to carry onas man of the traditional folkways as possible. And there is nothing as sweet as the smell of molasses cooking on a blazing fire creating an aroma that fills the air on a crisp autumn morning.
In the final molasses cooking of the year on Sat., Nov. 24, Mr. Brown and his friends made about 18 gallons (it takes 10 gallons of cane juice to make one gallon of molasses) of beautifully colored, mouth-watering molasses that just beg for a biscuit. In all, 4 batches of molasses were cooked at Mr. Brown's house this year yielding about 65 gallons. If you'd like some, call Mr. Brown and 694-7608. The cost is $10 per quart but they are well worth it. That may sound like a high price but it is very reasonable considering the labor and expense of making molasses.
I am amazed at the amount of time and labor required to produce this syrupy sorgum used to deliciously smother a buttered biscuit or, as some prefer, buttered cornbread. The process involves planting, cultivating, and harvesting the cane...grinding the juice from the cane...and then cooking the cane juice over a wood-fueled fire, skimming the residue frequently, to produce the molasses. It takes about 8 hours to cook the cane juice down into the final product and to get it to just the right thickness. Then, comes another time-consuming process, pouring the molasses into the glass jars (which are quite expensive, by the way). Mr. Brown, his dear friend Wilbur Walker, and their friends, neighbors, and helpers make some of the finest molasses I've ever tasted. I appreciate the finished produce even more knowing how much work goes into it.
However, a molasses-making session at Mr. Brown's is not all work by any stretch of the imagination. A lot of good down home fellowship goes on under that cozy shelter beside Mr. Brown's farmhouse in Critz. Typically, Mr. Brown and a whole host of guests (many of whom hear about it on the radio) engage in fascinating conversation, joking, story-telling, and other merry making as the molasses is cooked and skimmed. Perhaps most enjoyable is the feasting that goes on around the fire. The "molasses makers" always bring plenty to eat. Sometimes, Mr. Brown cooks up a big pot of pinto beans and cornbread that is enjoyed by those who stop by. Often, someone will bring a pound cake, a pie, or another dessert to add to the meal. Yes, even though it is hard work, molasses making is a whole lot of fun, and a throw back to the past when neighbors took time to visit and to really enjoy life to its fullest. In these fast-paced, impersonal, and complicated times in which we live, we often neglect the best things of life, like our relationship to others, especially our neighbors. When it comes to good friends and neighbors, Mr. Brown and his friends from Critz and around Patrick County are "thicker than molasses"!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"...one as rich and satisfying as a jar of Mr. Brown's slow-cooked molasses!
Richard
In the final molasses cooking of the year on Sat., Nov. 24, Mr. Brown and his friends made about 18 gallons (it takes 10 gallons of cane juice to make one gallon of molasses) of beautifully colored, mouth-watering molasses that just beg for a biscuit. In all, 4 batches of molasses were cooked at Mr. Brown's house this year yielding about 65 gallons. If you'd like some, call Mr. Brown and 694-7608. The cost is $10 per quart but they are well worth it. That may sound like a high price but it is very reasonable considering the labor and expense of making molasses.
I am amazed at the amount of time and labor required to produce this syrupy sorgum used to deliciously smother a buttered biscuit or, as some prefer, buttered cornbread. The process involves planting, cultivating, and harvesting the cane...grinding the juice from the cane...and then cooking the cane juice over a wood-fueled fire, skimming the residue frequently, to produce the molasses. It takes about 8 hours to cook the cane juice down into the final product and to get it to just the right thickness. Then, comes another time-consuming process, pouring the molasses into the glass jars (which are quite expensive, by the way). Mr. Brown, his dear friend Wilbur Walker, and their friends, neighbors, and helpers make some of the finest molasses I've ever tasted. I appreciate the finished produce even more knowing how much work goes into it.
However, a molasses-making session at Mr. Brown's is not all work by any stretch of the imagination. A lot of good down home fellowship goes on under that cozy shelter beside Mr. Brown's farmhouse in Critz. Typically, Mr. Brown and a whole host of guests (many of whom hear about it on the radio) engage in fascinating conversation, joking, story-telling, and other merry making as the molasses is cooked and skimmed. Perhaps most enjoyable is the feasting that goes on around the fire. The "molasses makers" always bring plenty to eat. Sometimes, Mr. Brown cooks up a big pot of pinto beans and cornbread that is enjoyed by those who stop by. Often, someone will bring a pound cake, a pie, or another dessert to add to the meal. Yes, even though it is hard work, molasses making is a whole lot of fun, and a throw back to the past when neighbors took time to visit and to really enjoy life to its fullest. In these fast-paced, impersonal, and complicated times in which we live, we often neglect the best things of life, like our relationship to others, especially our neighbors. When it comes to good friends and neighbors, Mr. Brown and his friends from Critz and around Patrick County are "thicker than molasses"!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"...one as rich and satisfying as a jar of Mr. Brown's slow-cooked molasses!
Richard
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Think to the Thankful!
"I've got so much to thank Him for....God has been so good to me"...so goes a familiar gospel song by one of my favorite groups, the Southern Prophets. Indeed, we all have much for which to be thankful. We have been blessed far beyond what we as imperfect, sinful human beings deserve by a gracious Lord God Almighty who is always willing to grant His children unmerited favor because he loves us far beyond our ability to comprehend.
As I count my blessings this Thanksgiving season, I am grateful first and foremost that Jesus shed his blood on Calvary's cross to free us of the bondage of our sins. I am joyfully thankful too that by faith in Christ I have the hope of enjoying eternity in the paradise of Heaven reunited with loved ones some of whom have already been called home to be with God.
I also express my gratitude for a loving and supportive Christian family, for the many friends who never cease to amaze me by their expressions of loving kindness to me, for the opportunity to be a proud and patriotic American and to live in the most wonderful place among God's creations, Patrick County. I am so thankful too for those courageous soldiers who have been willing to give their lives so that we can enjoy the freedoms and the relatively high quality of life that we are blessed with in this country and even more so in this county!
I am thankful to be relatively healthy at age 56 and for the 16-year-old donor who gave his heart a decade ago that I might continue to live when death seemed certain. I am also appreciative of the fact that I am able to work to support myself and to make my living doing what I love to do, radio broadcasting. In that regard, I say 'thank you Lord' for the faithful listeners who tune in to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" every morning and whose encouragement keeps me focused and energized when the stresses and demands of the job make me weary and worn physically and mentally. What a blessing you are! Yes, you, my listeners, are among the many blessings that I am counting this Thanksgiving and always. You are more than just listeners, you are my friends and a part of my family!
I pray that God has blessed each of you as much as He has me. Happy Thanksgiving!
A thankful heart,
Richard
As I count my blessings this Thanksgiving season, I am grateful first and foremost that Jesus shed his blood on Calvary's cross to free us of the bondage of our sins. I am joyfully thankful too that by faith in Christ I have the hope of enjoying eternity in the paradise of Heaven reunited with loved ones some of whom have already been called home to be with God.
I also express my gratitude for a loving and supportive Christian family, for the many friends who never cease to amaze me by their expressions of loving kindness to me, for the opportunity to be a proud and patriotic American and to live in the most wonderful place among God's creations, Patrick County. I am so thankful too for those courageous soldiers who have been willing to give their lives so that we can enjoy the freedoms and the relatively high quality of life that we are blessed with in this country and even more so in this county!
I am thankful to be relatively healthy at age 56 and for the 16-year-old donor who gave his heart a decade ago that I might continue to live when death seemed certain. I am also appreciative of the fact that I am able to work to support myself and to make my living doing what I love to do, radio broadcasting. In that regard, I say 'thank you Lord' for the faithful listeners who tune in to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" every morning and whose encouragement keeps me focused and energized when the stresses and demands of the job make me weary and worn physically and mentally. What a blessing you are! Yes, you, my listeners, are among the many blessings that I am counting this Thanksgiving and always. You are more than just listeners, you are my friends and a part of my family!
I pray that God has blessed each of you as much as He has me. Happy Thanksgiving!
A thankful heart,
Richard
Friday, November 16, 2007
Dispelling a Rampant Rumor!
As a veteran of more than 30 years in the broadcast industry and an employee of WHEO Radio, on a non-continuous basis, since I was 16 years old (the year was 1967 when, as a student of the former Stuart High School, I first obtained employment here), I am naturally concerned about the future of this radio station that I love and that has provided me a source of income and a means of making a living for much of my professional life. Having graduated from Virginia Tech in 1973 (working my way through school by coming home on weekends to a job at WHEO), I have also worked for the County of Patrick, the U.S. Postal Service, and the Patrick County Public Schools Division over the years, but I have always found myself coming back home to my beloved native Patrick County when I have lived elsewhere and to this radio station for my employment.
As everyone knows, WHEO Radio is for sale by the current owner. This is a fact! What is NOT a fact, as of this date, Nov. 16, 2007, is the rumor that WHEO has already been sold. That is FALSE!!!! NOT TRUE. A MYTH. A MISSTATEMENT. A TRUTHLESS RUMOR (as most of them are) that I want to put to rest right now. WHEO has NOT BEEN SOLD as of this writing nor is the sale of the station imminent at this time, according to owner Jamie Clark.
Being an employee here, such false rumors that circulate in our community are a bit upsetting to me. I believe that when the station is ultimately sold, the management will have the decency to tell its faithful employees first without us having to hear about it on the street. I suggest that you think first before repeating idle rumors that sometimes are hurtful to persons who have a real stake in the situation at hand, in the case of the radio station or anything else. Relax folks, we will make a public announcement if and when this radio station is sold. WHEO is blessed with dedicated employees, and I am proud to be among them, who work untold hours in a very fast-paced, stressful, and, of late, uncertain environment trying to serve the people of Patrick County that we love as best we can. The major reason why I work at WHEO is that I love the people of Patrick County and, realizing that this community needs this radio station desperately, I want to serve them to be best of my ability providing ACCURATE information and community-oriented programming and entertainment. In light of that dedication, I think it is unfair to the employees of WHEO to hear these false rumors because we deserve to know about the future of our station FIRST!
I am praying that God will bless this radio station and that, no matter who owns WHEO, it will continue to provide community-oriented, local radio programing, and that it will continue to provide employment for me and other dedicated employees who, especially in my case, have much of their lives as well as their livelihoods invested in this great little radio station that is such a treasure to this community.
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!
Think before you speak, shine your heartlight...
Be a beacon for our community,
Richard T. Rogers
As everyone knows, WHEO Radio is for sale by the current owner. This is a fact! What is NOT a fact, as of this date, Nov. 16, 2007, is the rumor that WHEO has already been sold. That is FALSE!!!! NOT TRUE. A MYTH. A MISSTATEMENT. A TRUTHLESS RUMOR (as most of them are) that I want to put to rest right now. WHEO has NOT BEEN SOLD as of this writing nor is the sale of the station imminent at this time, according to owner Jamie Clark.
Being an employee here, such false rumors that circulate in our community are a bit upsetting to me. I believe that when the station is ultimately sold, the management will have the decency to tell its faithful employees first without us having to hear about it on the street. I suggest that you think first before repeating idle rumors that sometimes are hurtful to persons who have a real stake in the situation at hand, in the case of the radio station or anything else. Relax folks, we will make a public announcement if and when this radio station is sold. WHEO is blessed with dedicated employees, and I am proud to be among them, who work untold hours in a very fast-paced, stressful, and, of late, uncertain environment trying to serve the people of Patrick County that we love as best we can. The major reason why I work at WHEO is that I love the people of Patrick County and, realizing that this community needs this radio station desperately, I want to serve them to be best of my ability providing ACCURATE information and community-oriented programming and entertainment. In light of that dedication, I think it is unfair to the employees of WHEO to hear these false rumors because we deserve to know about the future of our station FIRST!
I am praying that God will bless this radio station and that, no matter who owns WHEO, it will continue to provide community-oriented, local radio programing, and that it will continue to provide employment for me and other dedicated employees who, especially in my case, have much of their lives as well as their livelihoods invested in this great little radio station that is such a treasure to this community.
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!
Think before you speak, shine your heartlight...
Be a beacon for our community,
Richard T. Rogers
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Prayer Request
Your prayer requests are always welcome on "The Great Day in the Morning Show," and today I have one of my own. Please raise your hands to Heaven and pray for my stepfather James "Spot" Ray, who is recuperating from a "minor stroke" at Forsyth Memorial Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC. I visited him Sunday (Veterans Day) and he seemed to be doing better. He was alert, without pain, talking normally, and enjoying the care he was getting from the pretty nurses. Lucky guy!
Despite the fact that my stepdad is doing much better, he will remain in the hospital a bit longer for tests. So keep him in your prayers please. If you would like to do so, please send him a get well card. The address is James S. Ray, 603 Salem Highway, Stuart, VA 24171. I am sure he would appreciate your thoughtfulness, and so does the family.
Spot is a great guy! He is a very soft-spoken, gentle Christian man who has his priorities in order. He loves God and puts the Lord first in his life, followed by his beloved family, his church family, and his friends and neighbors. He never has a bad word to say about anyone and always tries to help people as best he can even though in his mid-80s it isn't as easy as it once was. I remember that when my aunt Ruth was living, he carefully and honestly managed the money of my mother Willie Mae Ray's blind sister, Ruth Crannell, making sure that every penny was accounted for and that she had everything she needed. He would go grocery shopping for her once a week, deliver her groceries and put them away for her. That is typical of the thoughtfulness and kindness that are his hallmarks. I wish I had many of his qualities. He has always been a great role model that I try to follow despite the fact that I often fall short of his genuine goodness. I'll keep trying.
In addition to his wonderful personality as a Godly man, Spot is perhaps the best tomato grower in Patrick County. He prides himself on his crop each year and tends to them like a mother nurturing a newborn babe. Some of the other tomato growers in our area consider his tomatoes the benchmark of excellence. To me Spot's 'maders are the best and so is he. God bless him!
Let me also ask that you continue to keep Sheriff David Hubbard in your prayers. Saturday's "Stars of David" benefit at Hardin Reynolds Memorial School in Critz raised over $18,200 (including the more than $5,000 we raised during a WHEO radio-thon for David a week earlier). Benefit organizer Herbert Conner says that when money from several other sources of funds (raffle, etc.) are eventually tallied in the total raised during this benefit will likely reach about $20,000. That is unbelievable. What a great outpouring of love and respect for our unfortunate retiring sheriff who has been seriously ill for many months.
The "Stars of David" Benefit was very well attended. It was a blessing to fellowship with so many caring Patrick Countians who never fail when it comes to assisting the less fortunate and persons in need in our community. I am so proud of the people of Patrick County. No one so lovingly and overwhelmingly responds to calls to help their neighbors like the people of our county. This is a quality that seems to be unique in our community and one that we certainly want to maintain as we seek to serve God by serving others. Thanks Patrick County for so graciously responding to our calls for assistance to help David and Gayna Hubbard and their families meet their tremendous medical bills.
I would like to thank all who made the benefit for David so successful, including Herbert, Tina, and Catherine Conner, the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, members of the benefit organizing committee, businesses that donated merchandise for auction or use at the benefit, the musicians who donated their time and talents (Tammy Newman, the Singing Directors...Kelly, Ruth, and Donald, the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, and the Conner family, all those who bid on auction items, made donations or any sort, WHEO listeners who raised more than one-quarter of the projected $20,000 Hubbard Benefit fund-raising total in another highly successful radio-thon for Hubbard on Nov. 2nd, the many people who attended the benefit and prayed for its success, and most of all, I thank God for blessing the benefit, and for the opportunity to live in a county where the people are the best in the world. No wonder we call this wonderful place "God's Country."
As we observe Veterans Day, let's all express our heartfelt appreciation to those courageous military men and women who have served and are now serving our country with distinction and who are helping to secure the liberties that we as proud Americans cherish. God bless our Veterans and our great country!
May God bless you with a "great day." Until next time, seize every opportunity to serve others and shine your heartlight on a world filled with darkness...
Be a beacon,
Richard
Despite the fact that my stepdad is doing much better, he will remain in the hospital a bit longer for tests. So keep him in your prayers please. If you would like to do so, please send him a get well card. The address is James S. Ray, 603 Salem Highway, Stuart, VA 24171. I am sure he would appreciate your thoughtfulness, and so does the family.
Spot is a great guy! He is a very soft-spoken, gentle Christian man who has his priorities in order. He loves God and puts the Lord first in his life, followed by his beloved family, his church family, and his friends and neighbors. He never has a bad word to say about anyone and always tries to help people as best he can even though in his mid-80s it isn't as easy as it once was. I remember that when my aunt Ruth was living, he carefully and honestly managed the money of my mother Willie Mae Ray's blind sister, Ruth Crannell, making sure that every penny was accounted for and that she had everything she needed. He would go grocery shopping for her once a week, deliver her groceries and put them away for her. That is typical of the thoughtfulness and kindness that are his hallmarks. I wish I had many of his qualities. He has always been a great role model that I try to follow despite the fact that I often fall short of his genuine goodness. I'll keep trying.
In addition to his wonderful personality as a Godly man, Spot is perhaps the best tomato grower in Patrick County. He prides himself on his crop each year and tends to them like a mother nurturing a newborn babe. Some of the other tomato growers in our area consider his tomatoes the benchmark of excellence. To me Spot's 'maders are the best and so is he. God bless him!
Let me also ask that you continue to keep Sheriff David Hubbard in your prayers. Saturday's "Stars of David" benefit at Hardin Reynolds Memorial School in Critz raised over $18,200 (including the more than $5,000 we raised during a WHEO radio-thon for David a week earlier). Benefit organizer Herbert Conner says that when money from several other sources of funds (raffle, etc.) are eventually tallied in the total raised during this benefit will likely reach about $20,000. That is unbelievable. What a great outpouring of love and respect for our unfortunate retiring sheriff who has been seriously ill for many months.
The "Stars of David" Benefit was very well attended. It was a blessing to fellowship with so many caring Patrick Countians who never fail when it comes to assisting the less fortunate and persons in need in our community. I am so proud of the people of Patrick County. No one so lovingly and overwhelmingly responds to calls to help their neighbors like the people of our county. This is a quality that seems to be unique in our community and one that we certainly want to maintain as we seek to serve God by serving others. Thanks Patrick County for so graciously responding to our calls for assistance to help David and Gayna Hubbard and their families meet their tremendous medical bills.
I would like to thank all who made the benefit for David so successful, including Herbert, Tina, and Catherine Conner, the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, members of the benefit organizing committee, businesses that donated merchandise for auction or use at the benefit, the musicians who donated their time and talents (Tammy Newman, the Singing Directors...Kelly, Ruth, and Donald, the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, and the Conner family, all those who bid on auction items, made donations or any sort, WHEO listeners who raised more than one-quarter of the projected $20,000 Hubbard Benefit fund-raising total in another highly successful radio-thon for Hubbard on Nov. 2nd, the many people who attended the benefit and prayed for its success, and most of all, I thank God for blessing the benefit, and for the opportunity to live in a county where the people are the best in the world. No wonder we call this wonderful place "God's Country."
As we observe Veterans Day, let's all express our heartfelt appreciation to those courageous military men and women who have served and are now serving our country with distinction and who are helping to secure the liberties that we as proud Americans cherish. God bless our Veterans and our great country!
May God bless you with a "great day." Until next time, seize every opportunity to serve others and shine your heartlight on a world filled with darkness...
Be a beacon,
Richard
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Patrick Countians: Neighbors Helping Neighbors!
On Friday, Nov. 2nd, Patrick Countians again demonstrated that they are the most caring, concerned, and compassionate people on the planet! In less than 2 hours, the faithful listeners of WHEO's "The Great Day in the Morning Show" graciously responded to my requests for assistance for a neighbor and friend in need by donating and pledging more than $5,000 to help defray the astronomical medical bills of Patrick County Sheriff David Hubbard who has been forced into retirement by an unfortunate illness. Remarkably that amounts to more than $2,500 per hour that was donated to this very worthy cause.
What is even more remarkable is the fact that county citizens magnificently responded to this call for help, even though gasoline prices are soaring again, country taxes are due in about a month, Christmas shopping season is about to begin in earnest, and economic times are still tough in our community. That speaks volumes about the good heartedness, brotherly love, and genuine humanitarian concern of the trusty people of this place we lovingly call home, our Patrick County. It also shows the respect that the people of our county have for Sheriff Hubbard and their gratitude for his efforts to protect our lives and property as the county's chief law enforcement officer for many years. It is wonderful to see people put aside politics and to come together in unity when their is a need in the community to be met.
I am sure that God will bless many times over each one who contributed their hard-earned dollars to make this the latest in a continuing series of successful radio fund-raising efforts on WHEO over the past 40 years. Tens and even into the hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for many deserving causes through these radio-thons on WHEO, and the loving citizens of this very unique county are to be commended for making it happen! I am proud of each and every one of you for your support as we seek to help to address needs in our community through our radio station. Thank you from the depths of my heart!
As the WHEO radio fundraiser aired on Friday, Sheriff Hubbard continued to receive tests and to be treated for his very serious illness at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville. Members of the Patrick County Sheriff's Department who spoke with him and his wife Gayna during the weekend said that the Hubbards are very touched and most grateful for the love and support show them by their neighbors and fellow Patrick Countians. They were amazed at the magnitude of the efforts being made to assist them in these troubled times in their lives. David, Gayna, and their families would like to sincerely thank you all for your loving kindness, Patrick County.
If you have not yet honored your pledge, please bring your donation to our WHEO studios or take it to Naomi Pilson at the Patrick County Sheriff's Department or mail it to: Naomi Pilson, 202 Bob Kat Lane, Stuart, VA 24171. The $5,050 total raised on WHEO's "Commuity Conversation" Friday will serve as a good start for the community-wide "Stars for DAvid" Benefit for Sheriff Hubbard that will be held Sat., Nov. 10th from 1-8 P.M. at Hardin Reynolds Memorial School in Critz. The event will feature auctions (regular and silent), raffles, the acceptance of donations, and live entertainment by the Patrick County High School Praise and Worship Team, Tammy Newman, The Singing Directors, Kelly and Ruth Ratcliff, the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, and Tina, Herbert, and Catherine Conner, who, with the assistance of David's co-workers at the Sheriff's Department and many friends, are leading the effort to organize the benefit. Please plan now to come out and support this tremendous fundraising benefit and enjoy the entertainment, fellowship and food (hotdogs, chips, desserts, drinks...and, oh yeah, Richard's pinto beans (there'll be plenty, we have a hundred pounds on hand).
Let's keep praying for Sheriff Hubbard and his family and plan to attend his benefit on Saturday in the HRMS multi-purpose room. For more information, call me at 694-3388 or the Conners at 694-4578. And thanks again for the heartwarming experience during Friday's radio-thon! I am so deeply touched by the goodness and graciousness of the dear folks who inhabit "God's Country," our dear country of Patrick!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"! Help light a world full of darkness...
be a beacon!
Taking pride in Patrick,
Richard
What is even more remarkable is the fact that county citizens magnificently responded to this call for help, even though gasoline prices are soaring again, country taxes are due in about a month, Christmas shopping season is about to begin in earnest, and economic times are still tough in our community. That speaks volumes about the good heartedness, brotherly love, and genuine humanitarian concern of the trusty people of this place we lovingly call home, our Patrick County. It also shows the respect that the people of our county have for Sheriff Hubbard and their gratitude for his efforts to protect our lives and property as the county's chief law enforcement officer for many years. It is wonderful to see people put aside politics and to come together in unity when their is a need in the community to be met.
I am sure that God will bless many times over each one who contributed their hard-earned dollars to make this the latest in a continuing series of successful radio fund-raising efforts on WHEO over the past 40 years. Tens and even into the hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for many deserving causes through these radio-thons on WHEO, and the loving citizens of this very unique county are to be commended for making it happen! I am proud of each and every one of you for your support as we seek to help to address needs in our community through our radio station. Thank you from the depths of my heart!
As the WHEO radio fundraiser aired on Friday, Sheriff Hubbard continued to receive tests and to be treated for his very serious illness at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville. Members of the Patrick County Sheriff's Department who spoke with him and his wife Gayna during the weekend said that the Hubbards are very touched and most grateful for the love and support show them by their neighbors and fellow Patrick Countians. They were amazed at the magnitude of the efforts being made to assist them in these troubled times in their lives. David, Gayna, and their families would like to sincerely thank you all for your loving kindness, Patrick County.
If you have not yet honored your pledge, please bring your donation to our WHEO studios or take it to Naomi Pilson at the Patrick County Sheriff's Department or mail it to: Naomi Pilson, 202 Bob Kat Lane, Stuart, VA 24171. The $5,050 total raised on WHEO's "Commuity Conversation" Friday will serve as a good start for the community-wide "Stars for DAvid" Benefit for Sheriff Hubbard that will be held Sat., Nov. 10th from 1-8 P.M. at Hardin Reynolds Memorial School in Critz. The event will feature auctions (regular and silent), raffles, the acceptance of donations, and live entertainment by the Patrick County High School Praise and Worship Team, Tammy Newman, The Singing Directors, Kelly and Ruth Ratcliff, the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, and Tina, Herbert, and Catherine Conner, who, with the assistance of David's co-workers at the Sheriff's Department and many friends, are leading the effort to organize the benefit. Please plan now to come out and support this tremendous fundraising benefit and enjoy the entertainment, fellowship and food (hotdogs, chips, desserts, drinks...and, oh yeah, Richard's pinto beans (there'll be plenty, we have a hundred pounds on hand).
Let's keep praying for Sheriff Hubbard and his family and plan to attend his benefit on Saturday in the HRMS multi-purpose room. For more information, call me at 694-3388 or the Conners at 694-4578. And thanks again for the heartwarming experience during Friday's radio-thon! I am so deeply touched by the goodness and graciousness of the dear folks who inhabit "God's Country," our dear country of Patrick!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"! Help light a world full of darkness...
be a beacon!
Taking pride in Patrick,
Richard
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
A Blessed Heart!
God is certainly gracious and generous as he blesses us daily by supplying all of our needs and even some of our desires. The latest example of how he has blessed me was revealed Monday, Oct. 29th, when I went for my semi-annual check-up at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, where I have been a patient since I successfully received my transplanted heart 10 years ago. After a battery of tests including a heart catherizaton during my day-long stay in the hospital, my cardiologist informed me that I am doing fine and that I remain the "poster boy" for the Baptist Hospital heart transplant program, one of the most respected in the country. God has lifted me up from a state of near death with a failing heart 10 years ago to where I am today as a highly active healthy individual who has been blessed me with new life through the gift of a transplanted heart provided by dear 16-year-old donor and received on Oct. 1, 1997. The Lord still performs miracles. I am one of them!
This blessing of a new heart is even more profound when I consider that the longest surviving heart transplant recipient in the country, according to my doctor, has survived with a near heart for almost 30 years. I am one-third the way to matching that mark, and looking forward to using my new heart to help me serve the Lord however long he allows me to remain here before bringing me home to be with Sandra in Heaven.
I am blessed not only with good health but a supportive family. For instance, my mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Mae Ray, transported me to and from my appointment Monday since doctors won't let heart cath patients drive immediate after the procedure. I am also greatly blessed with the ability to work and to support myself. (By the way, thanks Marcie for doing my show Monday while I went for my medical exam.) I am particularly thankful to be the host of "The Great Day in the Morning Show" on WHEO since I returned to my beloved home county ofPatrick 13 days after I received my transplanted heart a decade ago. I am blessed to be able to continue a more than 30-year broadcast career that began at this precious little radio station in the late 1960's when I was in high school. In addition, I have been richly blessed and surrounded by many faithful friends who have offered up prayers for me, send gifts, and shown me many other kindnesses. I am blessed in a myriad of other ways that I will leave unspoken for now but for which I am truly thankful to God. My blessings are countless. Consider yours. I am sure you can say that yours are countless too!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day." He has me...
Full of gratitude,
Richard
This blessing of a new heart is even more profound when I consider that the longest surviving heart transplant recipient in the country, according to my doctor, has survived with a near heart for almost 30 years. I am one-third the way to matching that mark, and looking forward to using my new heart to help me serve the Lord however long he allows me to remain here before bringing me home to be with Sandra in Heaven.
I am blessed not only with good health but a supportive family. For instance, my mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Mae Ray, transported me to and from my appointment Monday since doctors won't let heart cath patients drive immediate after the procedure. I am also greatly blessed with the ability to work and to support myself. (By the way, thanks Marcie for doing my show Monday while I went for my medical exam.) I am particularly thankful to be the host of "The Great Day in the Morning Show" on WHEO since I returned to my beloved home county ofPatrick 13 days after I received my transplanted heart a decade ago. I am blessed to be able to continue a more than 30-year broadcast career that began at this precious little radio station in the late 1960's when I was in high school. In addition, I have been richly blessed and surrounded by many faithful friends who have offered up prayers for me, send gifts, and shown me many other kindnesses. I am blessed in a myriad of other ways that I will leave unspoken for now but for which I am truly thankful to God. My blessings are countless. Consider yours. I am sure you can say that yours are countless too!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day." He has me...
Full of gratitude,
Richard
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
"It's a Gas"!
On behalf of the PARC Workshop, I'd like to thank everyone who supported the recent Duck Derby, a major annual fund-raising project for the sheltered workshop for the handicapped and disabled. This year a record 4,500 tickets (each representing one plastic duck entered in the race) were sold. Proceeds of an estimated $13,000 to $14,000 were generated by the ticket sales this year to help meet capital improvements and needs at this "Special Place for Special People," PARC Workshop. A total of 282 prizes were awarded based on the outcome of the plastic duck race.
As you have probably heard by now, lucky me won a much coveted prize (PARC Director Henry Ayers says this has popular prize for years) of 100 pounds of pinto beans with chow chow in the Derby. I've heard and made a lot of jokes about it but that is a nice gift if you love this southern culinary delicacy as much as me (pintos, corn bread, and onions is a meal fit for a king where I come from). When thinking of my good fortune, for some reason, words from the rock 'n' roll classic hit "Jumpin' Jack Flash" by the Rolling Stones come to mind. "It's a gas, gas, gas," wails lead singer Mick Jagger in that rock standard. "A gas" indeed! I am still "quacked up" over my good fortune. As much as I like pinto beans, I feel that there is a much better use for them than just my personal consumption (If you had them once a week, how long it take to eat 100 pounds of pinto beans?). I've had several responses to my offer to share them with others in the community. After careful consideration, I have decided to donate my Duck Derby pinto beans to upcoming benefit events for Sheriff David Hubbard. The first one will be on Sat., Nov. 10th from 1-8 p.m. at Hardin Reynolds Memorial Hospital.
The Nov. 10th "Stars of David" Benefit for Sheriff Hubbard is being organized by co-workers in the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, friends, community leaders, churches, and other interested citizens who respect Sheriff Hubbard and commend the job that he has done as our sheriff before illness forced his early retirement and precluded a run for re-election. Proceeds will be used to help defray the enormous medical expenses that David has incurred and will continue to face during his recovery. The Nov. 10th event promises to be a great day of fellowship, music, auctions, raffles, and food (including Richard's pinto beans & chow chow). Among the entertainers will be Tammy Newman, the Singing Directors (Kelly and Ruth), the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, Tina, Herbert & Catherine Conner. An auction, a silent auction, and raffles will also featured. To donate money, items, and services, call Herbert Conner at 694-4578, Linda Martin at 692-5112, or Darryl Smith at 694-7801. Send monetary donations to Naomi Pilson at 202 Bob Kat Lane, Stuart, VA 24171.
According to Deputy Ronnie Cox of the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, there will be a second benefit for Sheriff Hubbard after the holidays around the first of next year. I'm sure that there will be plenty of pinto beans to be served at both benefits...and then some!
I personally plan to support these fund-raisers because I know personally how devastating long hospitalizations can be on one's family budget even when you have health insurance coverage. Let's all pull together and help out our neighbor...who has served his county well as sheriff...David Hubbard. Continue to keep David in your prayers! Prayer is powerful. Please join me and many others in the community who are supporting this benefit effort for such as worthy cause and...enjoy the pinto beans!
Beanless but blessed,
Richard Rogers
As you have probably heard by now, lucky me won a much coveted prize (PARC Director Henry Ayers says this has popular prize for years) of 100 pounds of pinto beans with chow chow in the Derby. I've heard and made a lot of jokes about it but that is a nice gift if you love this southern culinary delicacy as much as me (pintos, corn bread, and onions is a meal fit for a king where I come from). When thinking of my good fortune, for some reason, words from the rock 'n' roll classic hit "Jumpin' Jack Flash" by the Rolling Stones come to mind. "It's a gas, gas, gas," wails lead singer Mick Jagger in that rock standard. "A gas" indeed! I am still "quacked up" over my good fortune. As much as I like pinto beans, I feel that there is a much better use for them than just my personal consumption (If you had them once a week, how long it take to eat 100 pounds of pinto beans?). I've had several responses to my offer to share them with others in the community. After careful consideration, I have decided to donate my Duck Derby pinto beans to upcoming benefit events for Sheriff David Hubbard. The first one will be on Sat., Nov. 10th from 1-8 p.m. at Hardin Reynolds Memorial Hospital.
The Nov. 10th "Stars of David" Benefit for Sheriff Hubbard is being organized by co-workers in the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, friends, community leaders, churches, and other interested citizens who respect Sheriff Hubbard and commend the job that he has done as our sheriff before illness forced his early retirement and precluded a run for re-election. Proceeds will be used to help defray the enormous medical expenses that David has incurred and will continue to face during his recovery. The Nov. 10th event promises to be a great day of fellowship, music, auctions, raffles, and food (including Richard's pinto beans & chow chow). Among the entertainers will be Tammy Newman, the Singing Directors (Kelly and Ruth), the Country Boys, One Accord, the Southern Prophets, Cornerstone Grass, Tina, Herbert & Catherine Conner. An auction, a silent auction, and raffles will also featured. To donate money, items, and services, call Herbert Conner at 694-4578, Linda Martin at 692-5112, or Darryl Smith at 694-7801. Send monetary donations to Naomi Pilson at 202 Bob Kat Lane, Stuart, VA 24171.
According to Deputy Ronnie Cox of the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, there will be a second benefit for Sheriff Hubbard after the holidays around the first of next year. I'm sure that there will be plenty of pinto beans to be served at both benefits...and then some!
I personally plan to support these fund-raisers because I know personally how devastating long hospitalizations can be on one's family budget even when you have health insurance coverage. Let's all pull together and help out our neighbor...who has served his county well as sheriff...David Hubbard. Continue to keep David in your prayers! Prayer is powerful. Please join me and many others in the community who are supporting this benefit effort for such as worthy cause and...enjoy the pinto beans!
Beanless but blessed,
Richard Rogers
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Hope for Our Hospital!
The R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital is one community resource that we can ill afford to lose. It is an integral part of the high quality of life that we enjoy today in this beautiful county and our hopes for an even brighter tomorrow. That's why it is important that the citizens of our community unite behind the financially-struggling hospital and to let it be known to its owners, our county leaders, appropriate state and federal officials, and all concerned that this is one priceless community resource that we will not, and indeed, can not do without. I commend the efforts that are being made by many in the community right now to try to save the hospital.
In coming days and weeks, I plan to encourage community discussion and dialogue with regard to this crucial issue on my radio show. I urge citizens to call in on "Community Conversation" as we better inform ourself and try to apply that knowledge to positive community action to ensure that the day will never come when this hospial no longer exists. As a community of citizens many of whom contributed their hard earned dollars to establish the hospital 45 years ago and who deserve quick access to medical care especially in emergency situations we can not afford to lose the hospital. So let's maintain hope and have faith that our community and all the key players concerned will act responsibly and do what is best for our county: work to save and to restore the financial viability of the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital.
I welcome positive suggestions such as the proposal put forth by Patrick County banker and former state delegate and county administrator Barney Day. On Friday's "Community Conversation," Day proposed and invited public dialogue on his suggestion that a Patrick County Hospital Task Force be formed. The task force, Day said, "would be a group of unpaid, volunteer citizens from a cross-section of Patrick County appointed by no one, beholden only to our consciences, who are interested in the long-term viability of RJR-PatrickCounty Memorial Hospital." Day proposes that this citizens group gather information with regard to the hospital, its ownership structure, contractural obligations, licensing agreements, budget, financial condition, staffing, and other pertinent information about the hospital's current status. Once the fact finding phase of the task force's mission is finished, Days says "we will make this information available, in full, in writing, to the citizens of Patrick County." He adds that "we will digest it (the gathered information), understand it, and based upon it, make improvement recommendations to the current ownership and staff of RJR-Patrick County Memorial Hospital, and offer insight and advice to any interested entity, private or public, contemplating investment in, or subsidization of, RJR-Patrick County Memorial Hospital." This, I believe, is a constructive proposal and a prudent way of addressing one of the most important issues facing our community.
It is vitally important in addressing this issue that we gather all the facts and pertinent and accurate information that is available. As a concerned citizen who loves this county and our way of life, I have been doing a little investigating myself in recent days and can offer this information with regard to the hospital's current status based on discussions with sources whose requests for anonymity I will honor. From what I have been able to determine, the hospital was purchased by an investment group known as PCH Investors LLC (headed by Charles Trexler) which contracted the operation of the facility to a company known as PCH Operations LLC (headed by Gene Woodward and Steve Womack). This is the group that runs the hospital. In answer to a question I posed on the radio Friday, there is no community board that oversees the hospital like the group of prominent local citizens and community leaders who used to govern the hospital. Instead, the current hospital board is made of just 3 voting members, Mr. Woodward, Mr. Womack, and Dr. Ralph Kramer, chairman of the hospital medical staff. While the current hospital administrator, the director of nursing, the hospital executive secretary, and the ownership group's bookkeeper attend board meetings, they have no vote.
The R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital is a critical access hospital, licensed by the state of Virginia as a 25-bed acute care facility. Hospice of Patrick County is also covered by licensure but under a different contract. Our local hospital also maintains contracts with the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Radford University, and Patrick Henry Community College which periodically may send medical students to gain experience and training under a medical assistance program affiliated with our hospital. The hospital is also subject to contractural agreements in such areas as insurance, liability, food perchasing, pharmacy, radiology (for the rading of x-rays), and other contracts.
The hospital currently provides an amazing array of quality services, including 24 hour per day, 7 day per week Emergency Room (ER), ambulance and x-ray and lab services. Our hospital provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy, Hospice and Palative Care services, a Rural Health Care Clinic (a doctor's office in the hospital), and provides flu shots to residents. This hospital also provides the only Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ALS) service available in Patrick County on a 24-hour basis.
Amazingly and remarkably, the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital provides every medication box carried by every rescue squad on every ambulance in the county. These boxes cost $450 each. When the medications in the boxes expire or their contents are depleted, these medication boxes are continually replaced by the hospital at no charge. The hospital also supplies linens, oxygen, and other supplies to every rescue squad at no charge. If the county taxpayers had to pick up the tab for Emergency Medical Services now provided by the hospital it would likely cost millions of dollars.
According to a reliable source, to date no county taxpayer funds have been spent in an effort to keep the hospital afloat, "not a penny." I am told that $16,000 in financial assistance offered by the Caring Hearts Free Clinic to cover malpractice insurance to keep the ER open will not be needed afterall and will be returned because a Raleigh, NC, insurance group will continue to provide the coverage.
The hospital now employs 85 full-time employees and a total of 145 employees including full-time, part-time and those employed on an "as needed" basis. Our hospital and our community are blessed to have many dedicated employees who choose to serve here because they love our hospital and our people rather than take higher paying jobs in other localities. We are all human and occasionally make mistakes, but our hospital by all accounts provides excellent service through this dedicated staff despite the uncertainties and the hardships that they continually face. It is the dedication and grace of this staff of local people who have a genuine love and concern for their fellow Patrick Countians that we should all use as a guide and example in our own professions, in particular, and in our lives, in general.
It is apparent, however, that the current "for profit" private ownership group has failed to restore the hospital to financial viability, let alone profitability. The fact that the Patrick County Board of Supervisors has indicated that it is poised and ready to intervene in an effort to save the hospital speaks volumes about the depths to which the hospital has sunk under its current owners. In order to succeed this hospital must be managed and run like a business, but I am told by a reliable source, for example, that the hospital has not formally prepared a 2007 budget. A budget is a must if any business, government agency, or household is to be operated as efficiently and economically as possible.
Sources close to the hospital also say that the financial deterioration of this most needed medical care institution has been precipitated by the outsourcing of the hospital's billing and the closing of the business office. Without notice to the local staff, the local billing was turned over to a company in Mobile, AL, almost a year ago. Approximately $5.6 million in accounts receivable due the hospital currently needs to be collected and funds have been slow to come in causing cash flow problems.
A highly paid consultant, I am told, has been brought in (at the expense of the jobs of several long-time and highly capable local staff members) by the ownership group to oversee the hospital insurance coding and billing process. However, the hospital's financial decline has continued or accelerated and complaints about hospital billing have increased..
The good news is that there is a prospective buyer that is quite interested in purchasing our local hospital. A slow process of negotiations between the current and the proposed ownership groups have been going on since May. I am told that the prospective buyer is a Roanoke physicians group that is quite interested in the imporoving the medical care system in our county and has the recources and working capital that is needed to invest in a business in order to help it to grow and thrive. It is "hoped that the sale of the hospital is imminent," a source that has requested anonymity told me. Let's hope so! Let us also pray that God will bless our community with the continued high-quality, loving care that we have we have come to expect from our local hospital team of professionals who proudly serve the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital and the county that they love.
Call in to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" or comment on this website to express your views on the local hospital and other issues.
Until next time, my God bless you with a great day.
Richard
In coming days and weeks, I plan to encourage community discussion and dialogue with regard to this crucial issue on my radio show. I urge citizens to call in on "Community Conversation" as we better inform ourself and try to apply that knowledge to positive community action to ensure that the day will never come when this hospial no longer exists. As a community of citizens many of whom contributed their hard earned dollars to establish the hospital 45 years ago and who deserve quick access to medical care especially in emergency situations we can not afford to lose the hospital. So let's maintain hope and have faith that our community and all the key players concerned will act responsibly and do what is best for our county: work to save and to restore the financial viability of the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital.
I welcome positive suggestions such as the proposal put forth by Patrick County banker and former state delegate and county administrator Barney Day. On Friday's "Community Conversation," Day proposed and invited public dialogue on his suggestion that a Patrick County Hospital Task Force be formed. The task force, Day said, "would be a group of unpaid, volunteer citizens from a cross-section of Patrick County appointed by no one, beholden only to our consciences, who are interested in the long-term viability of RJR-PatrickCounty Memorial Hospital." Day proposes that this citizens group gather information with regard to the hospital, its ownership structure, contractural obligations, licensing agreements, budget, financial condition, staffing, and other pertinent information about the hospital's current status. Once the fact finding phase of the task force's mission is finished, Days says "we will make this information available, in full, in writing, to the citizens of Patrick County." He adds that "we will digest it (the gathered information), understand it, and based upon it, make improvement recommendations to the current ownership and staff of RJR-Patrick County Memorial Hospital, and offer insight and advice to any interested entity, private or public, contemplating investment in, or subsidization of, RJR-Patrick County Memorial Hospital." This, I believe, is a constructive proposal and a prudent way of addressing one of the most important issues facing our community.
It is vitally important in addressing this issue that we gather all the facts and pertinent and accurate information that is available. As a concerned citizen who loves this county and our way of life, I have been doing a little investigating myself in recent days and can offer this information with regard to the hospital's current status based on discussions with sources whose requests for anonymity I will honor. From what I have been able to determine, the hospital was purchased by an investment group known as PCH Investors LLC (headed by Charles Trexler) which contracted the operation of the facility to a company known as PCH Operations LLC (headed by Gene Woodward and Steve Womack). This is the group that runs the hospital. In answer to a question I posed on the radio Friday, there is no community board that oversees the hospital like the group of prominent local citizens and community leaders who used to govern the hospital. Instead, the current hospital board is made of just 3 voting members, Mr. Woodward, Mr. Womack, and Dr. Ralph Kramer, chairman of the hospital medical staff. While the current hospital administrator, the director of nursing, the hospital executive secretary, and the ownership group's bookkeeper attend board meetings, they have no vote.
The R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital is a critical access hospital, licensed by the state of Virginia as a 25-bed acute care facility. Hospice of Patrick County is also covered by licensure but under a different contract. Our local hospital also maintains contracts with the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Radford University, and Patrick Henry Community College which periodically may send medical students to gain experience and training under a medical assistance program affiliated with our hospital. The hospital is also subject to contractural agreements in such areas as insurance, liability, food perchasing, pharmacy, radiology (for the rading of x-rays), and other contracts.
The hospital currently provides an amazing array of quality services, including 24 hour per day, 7 day per week Emergency Room (ER), ambulance and x-ray and lab services. Our hospital provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy, Hospice and Palative Care services, a Rural Health Care Clinic (a doctor's office in the hospital), and provides flu shots to residents. This hospital also provides the only Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ALS) service available in Patrick County on a 24-hour basis.
Amazingly and remarkably, the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital provides every medication box carried by every rescue squad on every ambulance in the county. These boxes cost $450 each. When the medications in the boxes expire or their contents are depleted, these medication boxes are continually replaced by the hospital at no charge. The hospital also supplies linens, oxygen, and other supplies to every rescue squad at no charge. If the county taxpayers had to pick up the tab for Emergency Medical Services now provided by the hospital it would likely cost millions of dollars.
According to a reliable source, to date no county taxpayer funds have been spent in an effort to keep the hospital afloat, "not a penny." I am told that $16,000 in financial assistance offered by the Caring Hearts Free Clinic to cover malpractice insurance to keep the ER open will not be needed afterall and will be returned because a Raleigh, NC, insurance group will continue to provide the coverage.
The hospital now employs 85 full-time employees and a total of 145 employees including full-time, part-time and those employed on an "as needed" basis. Our hospital and our community are blessed to have many dedicated employees who choose to serve here because they love our hospital and our people rather than take higher paying jobs in other localities. We are all human and occasionally make mistakes, but our hospital by all accounts provides excellent service through this dedicated staff despite the uncertainties and the hardships that they continually face. It is the dedication and grace of this staff of local people who have a genuine love and concern for their fellow Patrick Countians that we should all use as a guide and example in our own professions, in particular, and in our lives, in general.
It is apparent, however, that the current "for profit" private ownership group has failed to restore the hospital to financial viability, let alone profitability. The fact that the Patrick County Board of Supervisors has indicated that it is poised and ready to intervene in an effort to save the hospital speaks volumes about the depths to which the hospital has sunk under its current owners. In order to succeed this hospital must be managed and run like a business, but I am told by a reliable source, for example, that the hospital has not formally prepared a 2007 budget. A budget is a must if any business, government agency, or household is to be operated as efficiently and economically as possible.
Sources close to the hospital also say that the financial deterioration of this most needed medical care institution has been precipitated by the outsourcing of the hospital's billing and the closing of the business office. Without notice to the local staff, the local billing was turned over to a company in Mobile, AL, almost a year ago. Approximately $5.6 million in accounts receivable due the hospital currently needs to be collected and funds have been slow to come in causing cash flow problems.
A highly paid consultant, I am told, has been brought in (at the expense of the jobs of several long-time and highly capable local staff members) by the ownership group to oversee the hospital insurance coding and billing process. However, the hospital's financial decline has continued or accelerated and complaints about hospital billing have increased..
The good news is that there is a prospective buyer that is quite interested in purchasing our local hospital. A slow process of negotiations between the current and the proposed ownership groups have been going on since May. I am told that the prospective buyer is a Roanoke physicians group that is quite interested in the imporoving the medical care system in our county and has the recources and working capital that is needed to invest in a business in order to help it to grow and thrive. It is "hoped that the sale of the hospital is imminent," a source that has requested anonymity told me. Let's hope so! Let us also pray that God will bless our community with the continued high-quality, loving care that we have we have come to expect from our local hospital team of professionals who proudly serve the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital and the county that they love.
Call in to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" or comment on this website to express your views on the local hospital and other issues.
Until next time, my God bless you with a great day.
Richard
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Stuffed in Stuart!
I've been traveling alot lately in my "Richard on the Road" series of news features, and I must say that everywhere I go my hosts offer some of the most delicious food that is almost impossible to resist. Though I may have to go on a diet here in the near future, I have really cherished my travels in search of important places and interesting people in Patrick County, and I have really enjoyed the hospitality and the food as well.
This beautiful autumn weekend has left me "stuffed" but "satisfied" headed into the new work week (unfortunately radio hosts don't get the Columbus Day holiday off). My weekend began last Friday when I joined radio/TV chef Paul Farrar at Food Lion in Stuart. We did a remote broadcast and Paul prepared some of the most unusual and mouthwatering apple dumplings that I have ever eaten. Paul wrapped a whole Granny Smith apple (cored and filled with butter and cinnamon) in dough and baked it at 350-degrees and then topped it with a caramel topping that brought ecstacy to the taste buds. Thanks to Jane McAlexander at Food Lion for the hospitality and those of you who stopped by and enjoyed Paul's apple dumplings with me.
Saturday, I started the day with a big gravy biscuit at the Coffee Break before I set out on a round of weekend events that I covered for the news and my series. I really like the Canine Convention for the benefit of Patrick County United Way at the Landmark Center. About 20 pure bred dogs participated in the "pooch parade" and various categories of competition with their proud owners. As part of the fund raising effort, Doris Martin did a great job organizing a bake sale and I left with a huge calory-laden butter pecan pound cake in my hands. What a dessert! That'll last a day or two!
Then it was on to the first Farm and Outdoor Safety Program (sponsored by Patrick County Farm Bureau and other groups in the community) just across the way and down Woodland Drive at Rotary Field. There I enjoyed the safety demonstrations conducted by our fire and rescue units, Farm Bureau Safety Director Bruce Stone, and other safety experts. For lunch, I decided to help out the 4-H Shooter Education Club so I purchased a delightful cheeseburger at their concession kitchen at Rotary. Great burger, guys and gals!
I figured that would hold me until I got to my next destination...the annual Civil War Encampment and Reenactment at Laurel Hill, Confederate General JEB Stuart's birthplace and boyhood home in Ararat. What a beautiful facility and a wonderful event that attracts people from all across the eastern part of the United States and beyond. I really enjoyed watching the battle reenactment (hoping that the armies would get it right almost 150 years later and that the South would win... but I guess it ain't gonna happen though). I should have taken my earplugs because the noise from the cannon fire was almost deafening. Anyway, watching the soldiers go through their paces helped my appetite to build, so Tom Bishop, the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, and I decided to have some lunch and to try some of the Civil War era food that was available along with the regular festival fare of burgers, hotdogs, fries, etc. So we had lunch at the Old South Cookery, one of the encampment vendors that specializes in serving Indian Fry Bread stuffed with or topped with various tasty treats, including breakfast items; fruits (apple, peach, or cherry), or meet and vegetables. Chef Billy Shealey learned to make this bread from the Cherokee Indians but wouldn't dare divulge the recipe. Tom and I tried the best-selling item on the menu, the Navajo Taco which was outstanding in its palate pleasing tastiness. More than a meal, it featured the Indian Fry Bread topped with seasoned beef, lettuce, tomatores, cheese, and sour cream...washed down with root beer and cherry soda. After consuming all that I was sure that I probably wouldn't want or need anything else to eat for a week. By the way, thanks Tom for buying my lunch...and thanks to everyone in the JEB Stuart Birthplace Preservation Trust of which I am an honorary member for your graciousness, hospitality, and the free gate pass!
Saturday night, I was at the radio station working on my Civil War Encampment feature when Herbert, Tina, and Catherine unexpectedly came calling. They were on their way home from the High Point Baptist Church's Chicken Stew and they stopped to give me a big container of this incredibly tasty chicken stew served at the event. That was so very nice of the Conners. They are such caring and considerate people, like so many of my friends who look out for this single widower who doesn't see much point in cooking for one person at home anymore. Thanks Tina, Herbert, and Catherine for your thoughtfullness and thanks to the High Point Baptist Church member who made the stew! I wish I'd had some of that about a month ago when I took this cold that I am just beginning to shake off.
You'd think I'd had enough to eat! No so. Sunday brought my biggest feast of all. I was invited to attend the Patrick Springs Pentecostal Holiness Church's Homecoming and Dedication of the church's new Ministry Center, to enjoy lunch, and to hear the Southern Prophets sing. (I'll have a "Richard on the Road" feature series in the near future.) What a meal it was! In the multi-purpose Ministry Center facility, they had 2 tables that each seemed to be about a hundred yards longs completely filled with scrumptuous home cooked foods and desserts prepared by members of the church. I have never seen that much food under one roof in all my life. Of course, I consumed freely, just like everyone in attendance on this historic day in the history of one of Patrick County's largest churches. After completely stuffing myself, my friend Vernelle Trent insisted that I take home a big plate of desserts which she so thoughtfully prepared for me. What a great day it was with a touching sermon, wonderful music by the Southern Prophets, terrific fellowship, and all my favorite foods and sweets galore. Thanks to Pastor Trent Wall and the congregation of Patrick Springs Pentecostal Holiness Church for your impeccable southern hospitality. It was especially wonderful to see and to interview former pastor, the Rev. Jack Foley, and to hug and to interview one of the charter members of the church that was established in 1943, Ms. Etta McGhee, who is as spry as she can be at age 94. God bless this sweet little lady with a heart of gold! This was a wonderful day in the Lord that I will treasure for years to come.
Well, it's almost time to get in bed to get a few hours of sleep before the alarm sounds at 4 a.m. You'd think after all that food during the weekend, that eating would be the last thing on my mind. Well, I'll say this, it's not a major priority right now, but I think I'll have my usual bag of microwave popcorn and a soda before I turn in. Good night and God bless.
Until I meet you on the airwaves bright and early each weekday morning on 1270 WHEO, may the Good Lord bless you with a "great day"!
Stuffed in Stuart,
Richard
This beautiful autumn weekend has left me "stuffed" but "satisfied" headed into the new work week (unfortunately radio hosts don't get the Columbus Day holiday off). My weekend began last Friday when I joined radio/TV chef Paul Farrar at Food Lion in Stuart. We did a remote broadcast and Paul prepared some of the most unusual and mouthwatering apple dumplings that I have ever eaten. Paul wrapped a whole Granny Smith apple (cored and filled with butter and cinnamon) in dough and baked it at 350-degrees and then topped it with a caramel topping that brought ecstacy to the taste buds. Thanks to Jane McAlexander at Food Lion for the hospitality and those of you who stopped by and enjoyed Paul's apple dumplings with me.
Saturday, I started the day with a big gravy biscuit at the Coffee Break before I set out on a round of weekend events that I covered for the news and my series. I really like the Canine Convention for the benefit of Patrick County United Way at the Landmark Center. About 20 pure bred dogs participated in the "pooch parade" and various categories of competition with their proud owners. As part of the fund raising effort, Doris Martin did a great job organizing a bake sale and I left with a huge calory-laden butter pecan pound cake in my hands. What a dessert! That'll last a day or two!
Then it was on to the first Farm and Outdoor Safety Program (sponsored by Patrick County Farm Bureau and other groups in the community) just across the way and down Woodland Drive at Rotary Field. There I enjoyed the safety demonstrations conducted by our fire and rescue units, Farm Bureau Safety Director Bruce Stone, and other safety experts. For lunch, I decided to help out the 4-H Shooter Education Club so I purchased a delightful cheeseburger at their concession kitchen at Rotary. Great burger, guys and gals!
I figured that would hold me until I got to my next destination...the annual Civil War Encampment and Reenactment at Laurel Hill, Confederate General JEB Stuart's birthplace and boyhood home in Ararat. What a beautiful facility and a wonderful event that attracts people from all across the eastern part of the United States and beyond. I really enjoyed watching the battle reenactment (hoping that the armies would get it right almost 150 years later and that the South would win... but I guess it ain't gonna happen though). I should have taken my earplugs because the noise from the cannon fire was almost deafening. Anyway, watching the soldiers go through their paces helped my appetite to build, so Tom Bishop, the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, and I decided to have some lunch and to try some of the Civil War era food that was available along with the regular festival fare of burgers, hotdogs, fries, etc. So we had lunch at the Old South Cookery, one of the encampment vendors that specializes in serving Indian Fry Bread stuffed with or topped with various tasty treats, including breakfast items; fruits (apple, peach, or cherry), or meet and vegetables. Chef Billy Shealey learned to make this bread from the Cherokee Indians but wouldn't dare divulge the recipe. Tom and I tried the best-selling item on the menu, the Navajo Taco which was outstanding in its palate pleasing tastiness. More than a meal, it featured the Indian Fry Bread topped with seasoned beef, lettuce, tomatores, cheese, and sour cream...washed down with root beer and cherry soda. After consuming all that I was sure that I probably wouldn't want or need anything else to eat for a week. By the way, thanks Tom for buying my lunch...and thanks to everyone in the JEB Stuart Birthplace Preservation Trust of which I am an honorary member for your graciousness, hospitality, and the free gate pass!
Saturday night, I was at the radio station working on my Civil War Encampment feature when Herbert, Tina, and Catherine unexpectedly came calling. They were on their way home from the High Point Baptist Church's Chicken Stew and they stopped to give me a big container of this incredibly tasty chicken stew served at the event. That was so very nice of the Conners. They are such caring and considerate people, like so many of my friends who look out for this single widower who doesn't see much point in cooking for one person at home anymore. Thanks Tina, Herbert, and Catherine for your thoughtfullness and thanks to the High Point Baptist Church member who made the stew! I wish I'd had some of that about a month ago when I took this cold that I am just beginning to shake off.
You'd think I'd had enough to eat! No so. Sunday brought my biggest feast of all. I was invited to attend the Patrick Springs Pentecostal Holiness Church's Homecoming and Dedication of the church's new Ministry Center, to enjoy lunch, and to hear the Southern Prophets sing. (I'll have a "Richard on the Road" feature series in the near future.) What a meal it was! In the multi-purpose Ministry Center facility, they had 2 tables that each seemed to be about a hundred yards longs completely filled with scrumptuous home cooked foods and desserts prepared by members of the church. I have never seen that much food under one roof in all my life. Of course, I consumed freely, just like everyone in attendance on this historic day in the history of one of Patrick County's largest churches. After completely stuffing myself, my friend Vernelle Trent insisted that I take home a big plate of desserts which she so thoughtfully prepared for me. What a great day it was with a touching sermon, wonderful music by the Southern Prophets, terrific fellowship, and all my favorite foods and sweets galore. Thanks to Pastor Trent Wall and the congregation of Patrick Springs Pentecostal Holiness Church for your impeccable southern hospitality. It was especially wonderful to see and to interview former pastor, the Rev. Jack Foley, and to hug and to interview one of the charter members of the church that was established in 1943, Ms. Etta McGhee, who is as spry as she can be at age 94. God bless this sweet little lady with a heart of gold! This was a wonderful day in the Lord that I will treasure for years to come.
Well, it's almost time to get in bed to get a few hours of sleep before the alarm sounds at 4 a.m. You'd think after all that food during the weekend, that eating would be the last thing on my mind. Well, I'll say this, it's not a major priority right now, but I think I'll have my usual bag of microwave popcorn and a soda before I turn in. Good night and God bless.
Until I meet you on the airwaves bright and early each weekday morning on 1270 WHEO, may the Good Lord bless you with a "great day"!
Stuffed in Stuart,
Richard
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Take Pride in Patrick County Schools!
Congratulations to Patrick County's seven public schools on a remarkable achievement. All of our public schools in Patrick County were honored on Fri., Sept. 28th for having achieved Full Accreditation and having met Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) benchmarks. During an assembly in the Patrick County High School auditorium to celebrate the accomplishment, Patrick County school administrators, teachers, and school staff and support personnel were joined by dignitaries from the state and federal governments who came to town to offer their personal congratulations to our schools for their academic excellence. Among the special guests were Virginia's Secretary of Education, Dr. Thomas Morris, who, with ties to Horsepasture, is the 5th cousin of Patrick County School Superintendent Dr. Rogers Morris; Fred W. Hutchins, Regional Representative of U.S. Senator Jim Webb, and State Sen. Roscoe Reynolds.
To quote that noted observer of American society Barney Fife, Dr. Thomas Morris said, "this is big, this is real big!" Indeed it is "BIG"! Dr. Roger Morris, School Superintendent, said that of the 132 school divisions in Virginia, Patrick County is one of only 23 school systems in which all schools meet AYP and one of only 18 divisions where all the schools and the division as a whole meet AYP. Dr. Roger Morris added that Patrick County is in an "elite group" in terms of outstanding educational performance! Superintendent Morris attributed the phenomenal achievement to the "combined effort" of all personnal in the Patrick County Public Schools, not just the teachers. We are all part of a puzzle that when put together makes a "beautiful picture," Dr. Rogers Morris noted.
This accomplishment demonstrates that, by working together, Patrick Countians get the most out of their school dollars. Being a relatively poor rural county, we are not blessed with the enormous resources that some of the larger, more affluent counties have, but an excellent staff of outstanding veteran educators and promising young teachers working closely with parents, local officials, and citizens of the community has made Patrick County Public Schools the pride of our country, our state, and our nation. Let's all get involved and stay involved to insure that our public schools maintain and build upon this stellar record of educational excellence. It truly does take a community to educate a child. Keep up the good work, Patrick County!
I am also proud of Patrick Countians for their caring, compassion, and generosity that has been demonstrated time and time again. The latest example came last Thursday when listeners of "The Great Day in the Morning Show" on 1270-WHEO pledged and donated $2,200 to help fight Alzheimer's Disease in our community. That was a big part of the total of more than $5,000 raised by the 4th annual Memory Walk and Ride, sponsored by the Patrick County Alzheimer's Group LLC Sat., Sept. 29th at Dominion Valley Park. Thank you so much Patrick County for faithfully supporting this and many other worthwhile fundraising causes. Please mail donations to: Patrick County Alzheimer's Group, P.O. Box 1301, Stuart, VA 24171.
With pride in Patrick,
Richard Rogers
To quote that noted observer of American society Barney Fife, Dr. Thomas Morris said, "this is big, this is real big!" Indeed it is "BIG"! Dr. Roger Morris, School Superintendent, said that of the 132 school divisions in Virginia, Patrick County is one of only 23 school systems in which all schools meet AYP and one of only 18 divisions where all the schools and the division as a whole meet AYP. Dr. Roger Morris added that Patrick County is in an "elite group" in terms of outstanding educational performance! Superintendent Morris attributed the phenomenal achievement to the "combined effort" of all personnal in the Patrick County Public Schools, not just the teachers. We are all part of a puzzle that when put together makes a "beautiful picture," Dr. Rogers Morris noted.
This accomplishment demonstrates that, by working together, Patrick Countians get the most out of their school dollars. Being a relatively poor rural county, we are not blessed with the enormous resources that some of the larger, more affluent counties have, but an excellent staff of outstanding veteran educators and promising young teachers working closely with parents, local officials, and citizens of the community has made Patrick County Public Schools the pride of our country, our state, and our nation. Let's all get involved and stay involved to insure that our public schools maintain and build upon this stellar record of educational excellence. It truly does take a community to educate a child. Keep up the good work, Patrick County!
I am also proud of Patrick Countians for their caring, compassion, and generosity that has been demonstrated time and time again. The latest example came last Thursday when listeners of "The Great Day in the Morning Show" on 1270-WHEO pledged and donated $2,200 to help fight Alzheimer's Disease in our community. That was a big part of the total of more than $5,000 raised by the 4th annual Memory Walk and Ride, sponsored by the Patrick County Alzheimer's Group LLC Sat., Sept. 29th at Dominion Valley Park. Thank you so much Patrick County for faithfully supporting this and many other worthwhile fundraising causes. Please mail donations to: Patrick County Alzheimer's Group, P.O. Box 1301, Stuart, VA 24171.
With pride in Patrick,
Richard Rogers
Monday, September 24, 2007
Go Hokies!
This past Saturday, I did something that I haven't done, I'm sorry to say, in 30 years...attended a Virginia Tech football game in Blacksburg. Since I graduated from Tech in 1973, every time I've had the opportunity to return to the campus for a game, other commitments have stood in the way. But last Saturday, I was determined that nothing was going to stop me (just like nothing stopped the Hokies in their 44-3 stomping of William and Mary Saturday).
Thanks to my friend Al Brammer, an avid Tech fan who attends all the home games, for inviting me to use a free ticket that he had and go to the game. We had a delightful day...enjoying the drive north on Rt. 8...tailgating in the parking lot outside of stately Lane Stadium before the game...and then enjoying seeing the Hokies tune up for their upcoming Atlantic Coast Conference schedule which begins when Carolina comes to town this coming Saturday. VT's signature strong defensive and special teams play, an exciting performance by new quarterback sensation Tyrod Taylor, and the excitement of the crowd were highlights of a beautiful autumn afternoon in Blacksburg. Although this wasn't a marquee game for Tech, Lane Stadium was virtually packed with 68,000 screaming fans. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric! It was a thrill to experience the excitement of big time college football on the campus where I spent 4 years of my life, pulling for the university that owns my heart. Watching the game and experiencing the grandeur Saturday, I was proud to be an alumnus of Virginia Tech. We are the maroon and orange! We are the Hokies. We are Virginia Tech. Go Hokies!
The most impressive thing about going back to Blacksburg occasionally is how much it and the surrounding area in Montgomery County have grown and developed commercially over the years. The economic impact of Tech is tremendous and extends much further to outlying counties including Patrick County. On game days in autumn, it is a frequent sight to see vehicles heading north on Rt. 8 with their VT flags flying headed for the game. These travelers often stop in Patrick County and spend money on food, fuel, etc.
It is wonderful to live in a beautiful place like Patrick County which is only about a 60-90 minute drive (whether it be north on Rt. 8 to Blacksburg or south on Rt. 8 to Winston-Salem) from big time Atlantic Coast Conference football and basketball, arguably the best in the country. It you have the opportunity, enjoy cheering for your favorite ACC school in gridiron action this season. It will help you to better appreciate the game of collegiate football whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual one like me. Fall and football are truly great companions!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day!"
Richard
Thanks to my friend Al Brammer, an avid Tech fan who attends all the home games, for inviting me to use a free ticket that he had and go to the game. We had a delightful day...enjoying the drive north on Rt. 8...tailgating in the parking lot outside of stately Lane Stadium before the game...and then enjoying seeing the Hokies tune up for their upcoming Atlantic Coast Conference schedule which begins when Carolina comes to town this coming Saturday. VT's signature strong defensive and special teams play, an exciting performance by new quarterback sensation Tyrod Taylor, and the excitement of the crowd were highlights of a beautiful autumn afternoon in Blacksburg. Although this wasn't a marquee game for Tech, Lane Stadium was virtually packed with 68,000 screaming fans. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric! It was a thrill to experience the excitement of big time college football on the campus where I spent 4 years of my life, pulling for the university that owns my heart. Watching the game and experiencing the grandeur Saturday, I was proud to be an alumnus of Virginia Tech. We are the maroon and orange! We are the Hokies. We are Virginia Tech. Go Hokies!
The most impressive thing about going back to Blacksburg occasionally is how much it and the surrounding area in Montgomery County have grown and developed commercially over the years. The economic impact of Tech is tremendous and extends much further to outlying counties including Patrick County. On game days in autumn, it is a frequent sight to see vehicles heading north on Rt. 8 with their VT flags flying headed for the game. These travelers often stop in Patrick County and spend money on food, fuel, etc.
It is wonderful to live in a beautiful place like Patrick County which is only about a 60-90 minute drive (whether it be north on Rt. 8 to Blacksburg or south on Rt. 8 to Winston-Salem) from big time Atlantic Coast Conference football and basketball, arguably the best in the country. It you have the opportunity, enjoy cheering for your favorite ACC school in gridiron action this season. It will help you to better appreciate the game of collegiate football whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual one like me. Fall and football are truly great companions!
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day!"
Richard
Monday, September 17, 2007
Come to the County Fair!
A mid-September chill is in the air. That's a pretty good sign that it's time for the Patrick County Agricultural Fair, a rich tradition in our county that dates back more than half-a-century. Since I was a child who looked forward with wonder and anticipation each year to the coming of the fair, I remember that the fair always seems to bring with it chillier weather. This rite of fall almost always demands that we pull out those sweathers and jackets that have been mothballed during the hot weather of summer.
The Patrick County Fair is truly a autumn tradition that is well worth our support as a community. Many other counties no longer offer their citizens a county fair. Thanks to teamwork and the partnership of many groups and individuals in our community working with the sponsoring Stuart Rotary Club, our fair continues to thrive and to grow. That's why it is important for us all to support our fair and to ensure that many generations to come have the opportunity to enjoy the those chilly nights at the fair. It is much more than funnel cakes, cotton candy, chill bumps, ferris wheels, steak sandwiches, and blue ribbon quality exhibits. It is a part of who we are and the wholesome family values that we support in this community. The fair gives many of us an opportunity to renew friendships and acquaintances that tend to get neglected in the haste of our busy everyday lives. So this week, take a little break from the ordinary, load up the family, and come and make new friends and renew old friendships at the Patrick County Agricultural Fair. For a daily update of activities going on at the fair each night...start your day with me from 6-10 a.m. on "The Great Day in the Morning Show" in the "Heart of Patrick County," 1270 WHEO.
I am proud to be a member and an officer (President Elect) of the Stuart Rotary Club which sponsors the fair each year and puts all proceeds back into the community for such projects as local student scholarships, recreation and education through our club-owned facilities at Rotary Field, and other Rotary projects that make our community a better place in which to live. The Stuart Rotary Club also provides financial assistance to a variety of other community organizations, including the Boy Scouts, Hospice of Patrick County, the Caring Hearts Free Clinic, the Patrick County Music Association, Citizens Against Family Violence, and many others. For example, this past week, the Rotary Club board of which I am a member voted to provide donate money to help ship schools supplies donated by many individuals and organizations in the community at the requiest of Brian Stone, the son of Patrick County Deputy and Mrs. Ward Stone who is serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Tanzaniz in Africa. The Stuart Rotary Club also supports international efforts through Rotary International to bring clean drinking water to underdeveloped countries and to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. As a proud Stuart Rotarian, I cordially invite everyone to enjoy this labor of love of our respected club, the 55th annual Patrick County Agricultural Fair...Tue., Sept. 18th through Sat., Sept. 22nd at Rotary Field in Stuart. By the way, don't forget that sweather or jacket!
See you at the fair....
Richard
P.S. Congratulations to Denise Leigh Pendleton, the newly crowned Miss Patrick County Agricultural Fair 2007, and to Lashawnda Mae Weatherspoon, the new Junior Miss Patrick County Agricultural Fair. Enjoy their beauty and smiles as they greet you at the fair!
The Patrick County Fair is truly a autumn tradition that is well worth our support as a community. Many other counties no longer offer their citizens a county fair. Thanks to teamwork and the partnership of many groups and individuals in our community working with the sponsoring Stuart Rotary Club, our fair continues to thrive and to grow. That's why it is important for us all to support our fair and to ensure that many generations to come have the opportunity to enjoy the those chilly nights at the fair. It is much more than funnel cakes, cotton candy, chill bumps, ferris wheels, steak sandwiches, and blue ribbon quality exhibits. It is a part of who we are and the wholesome family values that we support in this community. The fair gives many of us an opportunity to renew friendships and acquaintances that tend to get neglected in the haste of our busy everyday lives. So this week, take a little break from the ordinary, load up the family, and come and make new friends and renew old friendships at the Patrick County Agricultural Fair. For a daily update of activities going on at the fair each night...start your day with me from 6-10 a.m. on "The Great Day in the Morning Show" in the "Heart of Patrick County," 1270 WHEO.
I am proud to be a member and an officer (President Elect) of the Stuart Rotary Club which sponsors the fair each year and puts all proceeds back into the community for such projects as local student scholarships, recreation and education through our club-owned facilities at Rotary Field, and other Rotary projects that make our community a better place in which to live. The Stuart Rotary Club also provides financial assistance to a variety of other community organizations, including the Boy Scouts, Hospice of Patrick County, the Caring Hearts Free Clinic, the Patrick County Music Association, Citizens Against Family Violence, and many others. For example, this past week, the Rotary Club board of which I am a member voted to provide donate money to help ship schools supplies donated by many individuals and organizations in the community at the requiest of Brian Stone, the son of Patrick County Deputy and Mrs. Ward Stone who is serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Tanzaniz in Africa. The Stuart Rotary Club also supports international efforts through Rotary International to bring clean drinking water to underdeveloped countries and to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. As a proud Stuart Rotarian, I cordially invite everyone to enjoy this labor of love of our respected club, the 55th annual Patrick County Agricultural Fair...Tue., Sept. 18th through Sat., Sept. 22nd at Rotary Field in Stuart. By the way, don't forget that sweather or jacket!
See you at the fair....
Richard
P.S. Congratulations to Denise Leigh Pendleton, the newly crowned Miss Patrick County Agricultural Fair 2007, and to Lashawnda Mae Weatherspoon, the new Junior Miss Patrick County Agricultural Fair. Enjoy their beauty and smiles as they greet you at the fair!
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Baptism is Beautiful!
Baptism is beautiful...especially the old-fashioned kind! And when the person being baptized is a young new Christian, it is even more beautiful. This past Sunday, on a brilliant late summer afternoon in one of the most scenic places in Patrick County, i.e. "God's Country", I was honored to be among approximately 50 people who gathered on the banks of the Dan River in the Kibler Valley for the old-fashioned baptizing in the river of young new Chrisian, Catherine Conner, the precious daughter of Herbert and Tina Conner of Stuart and a student at Stuart Elementary School. The ceremony, conducted by Rev. Jim Churchwell and Mark Collins, was a beautiful and touching experience that reminded me of the day long ago when I accepted Jesus into my heart, was baptized, and had my sins washed away as a new-born Christian.
Coming to know the Lord and to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is most important decision that a person can ever make in his earthly life. It is the greatest act that we can accomplish in this life. Baptist, it seems to me, symbolizes the covenant that we make with God when we receive Jesus into our hearts and being our walk in newness of life with Christ as the focus of that life. It is particularly wonderful that when a person who accepts Christ at a young age, as Catherine did, has virtually a whole life ahead of them to rejoice in their eternal salvation and to serve and to glorify Him.
As Catherie's parents, who are popular local gospel singers, sang "Shall We Gather at the River" before her emersion in the chilly waters of the Dan, it occured to me that there is something about an old-fashioned river baptizing that touches the heart and brings us closer to God. I felt the Holy Spirit in our midst Sunday afternoon, and I am sure that the fellow Christians who were gathered with me felt God's presence too. It is a shame that the old timey baptizings of the past are so rare in today's modern, hurry-up world. It was nice to just sit on the banks of the river enjoying the beauty of God's creations and taking time to allow him to speak to the heart while welcoming a young new soul into the family of God. The beauty of the setting for Catherine's baptisimal ceremony in the picturesque Kibler Valley was overwhelming, reminding me that as Christians we have the hope by grace through faith in Christ of enjoying eternity in an even more beautiful paradise, the paradise of Heaven.
Let's all keep Catherine in our prayers as she embarks upon her new life in Christ...and try to reflect Jesus' presence in our hearts by the way we live our lives, that others may come to know him through us. "Let your light so shine among me that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16)
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!
Love in Christ,
Richard
Coming to know the Lord and to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is most important decision that a person can ever make in his earthly life. It is the greatest act that we can accomplish in this life. Baptist, it seems to me, symbolizes the covenant that we make with God when we receive Jesus into our hearts and being our walk in newness of life with Christ as the focus of that life. It is particularly wonderful that when a person who accepts Christ at a young age, as Catherine did, has virtually a whole life ahead of them to rejoice in their eternal salvation and to serve and to glorify Him.
As Catherie's parents, who are popular local gospel singers, sang "Shall We Gather at the River" before her emersion in the chilly waters of the Dan, it occured to me that there is something about an old-fashioned river baptizing that touches the heart and brings us closer to God. I felt the Holy Spirit in our midst Sunday afternoon, and I am sure that the fellow Christians who were gathered with me felt God's presence too. It is a shame that the old timey baptizings of the past are so rare in today's modern, hurry-up world. It was nice to just sit on the banks of the river enjoying the beauty of God's creations and taking time to allow him to speak to the heart while welcoming a young new soul into the family of God. The beauty of the setting for Catherine's baptisimal ceremony in the picturesque Kibler Valley was overwhelming, reminding me that as Christians we have the hope by grace through faith in Christ of enjoying eternity in an even more beautiful paradise, the paradise of Heaven.
Let's all keep Catherine in our prayers as she embarks upon her new life in Christ...and try to reflect Jesus' presence in our hearts by the way we live our lives, that others may come to know him through us. "Let your light so shine among me that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16)
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!
Love in Christ,
Richard
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Congratulations Clyde!
I commend the Stuart Park and Recreation Association for naming the new 3-acre, multi-purpose ballfield at Dehart Park in Stuart in honor of Patrick County Recreation Director Clyde Crissman, who, to me, is truly "Mr. Recreaton" in our county. Clyde has been with the recreation department from day one (when it was started in 1972) and has served so very capably as our recreaton director for the past 22 years (since 1985). No one has done more for recreation in Patrick County than Clyde Crissman, in my opinion. As my friend Bill Banks so insightfully noted this week on my "Community Conversation" program, Clyde is a doer. He gets things done for our young people and the community at large. If fact, Clyde can get more done with less resources than anyone that I know. He has certainly given the county a bargain for its money when it comes conducting a great but modestly-funded recreation program, maintaining our facilities, and providing opportunities that promote and encourage the positive development of our county's youth. It is altogether fitting that a recreational facility that Clyde envisioned 20 years ago be named after him. Clyde put together the partnership or coalition of citizens and businesses in our community that made this wonderful new athletic facility possible. He is a tireless worker who always goes above and beyond the call of duty!!!
Clyde Crissman is truly "Mr. Recreation" in Patrick County...but he is much more than our recreation director. He is a community leader! Clyde loves this county and works as hard as anyone I know to help others. He has sold more raffle tickets and helped to raise more funds for worthy causes over the years than anyone that comes to mind. Patrick County High School students and staff recognized this fact earlier this year when they honored Crissman with the school's prestigious Public Service Award. Clyde is to be saluted for his community-mindedness as well as for the top-notch job that he has always done for our recreation program. He is also a good Christian who is dedicated to God and his family as well as our community and its young people (of all ages).
We will all remember the many contributions that Clyde has made and will continue to make to our county's well-being and high quality of life each time that we attend and enjoy a soccer or baseball game at the new "Crissman Community Field"! Thanks Clyde and congratulations on your well-deserved honor, "Mr. Recreation"!
With regard to another respected community servant in Patrick County, I rejoice in the good reports that I have heard of late about the improving condition of Sheriff David Hubbard. He is now taking therapy, talking, and showing many signs of gradual improvement, according to Chief Deputy Garry Brown, who updated us on the sheriff's condition in a live telephone interview Thursday morning on "Community Converation." God has certainly answered many prayers for the sheriff, blessing him with what is beginning to look like a miraculous recovery. Let's continue to keep Sheriff David Hubbard in our prayers, and as he retires as one of the county's top law enforcement officers, thank him for his many years of dedicated service protecting lives and property in Patrick County.
Until next time, may God bless all of you with a "great day"!
Faith be yours,
Richard
Clyde Crissman is truly "Mr. Recreation" in Patrick County...but he is much more than our recreation director. He is a community leader! Clyde loves this county and works as hard as anyone I know to help others. He has sold more raffle tickets and helped to raise more funds for worthy causes over the years than anyone that comes to mind. Patrick County High School students and staff recognized this fact earlier this year when they honored Crissman with the school's prestigious Public Service Award. Clyde is to be saluted for his community-mindedness as well as for the top-notch job that he has always done for our recreation program. He is also a good Christian who is dedicated to God and his family as well as our community and its young people (of all ages).
We will all remember the many contributions that Clyde has made and will continue to make to our county's well-being and high quality of life each time that we attend and enjoy a soccer or baseball game at the new "Crissman Community Field"! Thanks Clyde and congratulations on your well-deserved honor, "Mr. Recreation"!
With regard to another respected community servant in Patrick County, I rejoice in the good reports that I have heard of late about the improving condition of Sheriff David Hubbard. He is now taking therapy, talking, and showing many signs of gradual improvement, according to Chief Deputy Garry Brown, who updated us on the sheriff's condition in a live telephone interview Thursday morning on "Community Converation." God has certainly answered many prayers for the sheriff, blessing him with what is beginning to look like a miraculous recovery. Let's continue to keep Sheriff David Hubbard in our prayers, and as he retires as one of the county's top law enforcement officers, thank him for his many years of dedicated service protecting lives and property in Patrick County.
Until next time, may God bless all of you with a "great day"!
Faith be yours,
Richard
Sunday, September 2, 2007
A Labor of Love!
I'd like to personally thank Cecil and Barbara Hall and their family for the gracious hospitality shown me and almost 2,000 gospel music fans and campers who enjoyed one of the most successful Labor Day Weekend Gospel Singings in the history of their scenic venue, Dominion Valley Park. I enjoyed emceeing the Friday evening portion of the 3-day event that featured some of the top Southern and bluegrass gospel performers in the country. The Labor Day Weekend Gospel Singing is the largest of three major Dominioin Valley gospel music presentations each year, including the Memorial Day Weekend and July Gospel Singings.
As usual, the park was imaculately prepared, and Cecil, Barbara, and other members of the Hall family went out of their way to make sure that their treasured guests thoroughly enjoyed their stay at the park. In addition to being thankful for her own family, Barbara said she considers all the many fine people who keep coming back to Dominion Valley Park year after year to be "family" as well. The people who come here from far and near agree that the family atmosphere and fellowship at the park is as much a part of their enjoyment as the gospel music. One wheelchair bound patron from Rural Hall, N.C., told me he'd been coming to Dominion Valley and sitting in the same spot for 21 years. Many other folks like coming here just as much and are no less faithful.
The Hall family is to be commended for the effort, time, and commitment involved in opening their beloved property to the public and providing safe, wholesome family entertainment to thousands of local residents and visitors. The park's popular shows also attract tourists to our county from all over the country. The economic impact of Dominion Valley Park on the local economy over the more than 20 years it has been in operation is incalculable but most certainly highly significant.
As folks took a break from their daily labors and bid an unofficial goodbye to the summer season during the Labor Day weekend at Dominion Valley Park, it became clear to me that Cecil, Barbara, and family do no consider all the hard work that goes into presenting top-notch Christian entertainment here to be labor at all. It's obviously a labor of love!
Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Dominion Valley Park, Cecil and Barbara Hall, and your loving family for your warm hospitality. Your family is an assett to this wonderful county which loves you dearly!
Until next time, may God bless you all with a "great day!"
Sincerely,
Richard Rogers,
Host of WHEO'S "The Great Day in the Morning Show"
As usual, the park was imaculately prepared, and Cecil, Barbara, and other members of the Hall family went out of their way to make sure that their treasured guests thoroughly enjoyed their stay at the park. In addition to being thankful for her own family, Barbara said she considers all the many fine people who keep coming back to Dominion Valley Park year after year to be "family" as well. The people who come here from far and near agree that the family atmosphere and fellowship at the park is as much a part of their enjoyment as the gospel music. One wheelchair bound patron from Rural Hall, N.C., told me he'd been coming to Dominion Valley and sitting in the same spot for 21 years. Many other folks like coming here just as much and are no less faithful.
The Hall family is to be commended for the effort, time, and commitment involved in opening their beloved property to the public and providing safe, wholesome family entertainment to thousands of local residents and visitors. The park's popular shows also attract tourists to our county from all over the country. The economic impact of Dominion Valley Park on the local economy over the more than 20 years it has been in operation is incalculable but most certainly highly significant.
As folks took a break from their daily labors and bid an unofficial goodbye to the summer season during the Labor Day weekend at Dominion Valley Park, it became clear to me that Cecil, Barbara, and family do no consider all the hard work that goes into presenting top-notch Christian entertainment here to be labor at all. It's obviously a labor of love!
Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Dominion Valley Park, Cecil and Barbara Hall, and your loving family for your warm hospitality. Your family is an assett to this wonderful county which loves you dearly!
Until next time, may God bless you all with a "great day!"
Sincerely,
Richard Rogers,
Host of WHEO'S "The Great Day in the Morning Show"
Monday, August 27, 2007
Local Election Campaign Heating Up!
It looks like Patrick County's local election campaign is going to be as hot as the steamy weather that we've struggled to endure during the entire month of August! That became quite evident during the Thurs., Aug. 23, 2007, "Meet the Candidates" forum hosted by the Dobyns Community Club. A standing room only crowd of 107 people jammed the small Dobyns Community Building greatly taxing the building's air conditioning system. The hot topic of debate in the aftermath of this meeting is the unwillingness of some citizens in the room to hear from a representative of write-in candidate Darrell Bowling in the sheriff's race. One caller on "Community Conversation" said he felt this action represented a violation of our consitutional right to free speech...another caller also protested she felt was poor taste by a faction of citizens supporting one of the formal candidates for sheriff. The backlash from this incident could actually favor Bowling, who as a Virginia state trooper is not permitted to campaign directly as a "write-in" contender. The latter caller to my radio talk show said that she had changed her mind and decided to vote for Bowling simply because of the inhospitable treatment received by Bowling's representative, who had been offered an opportunity to speak by moderator David Sheeley before citizens protested that "he is not a candidate" and rejected an offer to allow him to speak. In an effort to prevent a "riot," Sheeley told me on Community Conversation that he decided not to press the issue and to move on with the meeting.
First, let me say that, as a radio talk show host who seeks to be fair to all concerned and to respect the opinions voiced on both sides of each issue, I will remain publicly neutral during this campaign and refrain from endorsing any candidates as I have always done during my radio career. My choices will be made know where it counts...in the secrecy of the polling place. I could not attend the candidate's meeting due to another meeting commitment that night and I know only what I heard on the radio news report, but it seems to me that this incident does not reflect well upon our county. I believe that we should seek to facilitate the expressions of viewpoints from all sides of issues and allow all those who are candidates for office or representaties thereof to speak. It just seems to me that allowing Mr. Bowling's spokesperson his say would have been much more in keeping with the keen sense of fair play for which Patrick Countians have long been noted. I personally believe that we should strive for openness and free expression of ideas in meetings whether they are publicly or privately conducted. This incident, I believe, is certainly not typical of fair-minded Patrick County people who are the most gracious, kind, and hospitable in the world. That's why I am so proud to be a native Patrick Countian myself. We don't need the negativity exemplified by this one incident int he heat of the moment. I hope that we can put this unfortunate incident behind us and move forward with a good "clean" campaign that allows the spread of accurate information about each of the candidates so that we as voters can be as informed as possible when we step into the voting booth on Nov. 6th. I congratulate all the candidates on their involvement and wish each the very best during the campaign season and beyond.
The only other comment I have on this matter is that I would like to publicly commend the Dobyns Community Club, generally, and Mr. David Sheeley, specifically, for their community-mindedness and their efforts to encourage the circulation of as much accurate information for the benefit of the electorate as possible in what promises to be a hottly contested elections in several key races. I know that this civic-oriented community organization tried to be as fair and accomodating as possible to everyone involved in the "Meet the Candidates" night. David did a great job under some very difficult circumstances and he and the Dobyns Community Club are to be applauded for their efforts.
Feel free to let me know how you stand on this and other important local issues. Your comments are welcome.
Speaking my mind as a proud Patrick Countian,
Richard Rogers
First, let me say that, as a radio talk show host who seeks to be fair to all concerned and to respect the opinions voiced on both sides of each issue, I will remain publicly neutral during this campaign and refrain from endorsing any candidates as I have always done during my radio career. My choices will be made know where it counts...in the secrecy of the polling place. I could not attend the candidate's meeting due to another meeting commitment that night and I know only what I heard on the radio news report, but it seems to me that this incident does not reflect well upon our county. I believe that we should seek to facilitate the expressions of viewpoints from all sides of issues and allow all those who are candidates for office or representaties thereof to speak. It just seems to me that allowing Mr. Bowling's spokesperson his say would have been much more in keeping with the keen sense of fair play for which Patrick Countians have long been noted. I personally believe that we should strive for openness and free expression of ideas in meetings whether they are publicly or privately conducted. This incident, I believe, is certainly not typical of fair-minded Patrick County people who are the most gracious, kind, and hospitable in the world. That's why I am so proud to be a native Patrick Countian myself. We don't need the negativity exemplified by this one incident int he heat of the moment. I hope that we can put this unfortunate incident behind us and move forward with a good "clean" campaign that allows the spread of accurate information about each of the candidates so that we as voters can be as informed as possible when we step into the voting booth on Nov. 6th. I congratulate all the candidates on their involvement and wish each the very best during the campaign season and beyond.
The only other comment I have on this matter is that I would like to publicly commend the Dobyns Community Club, generally, and Mr. David Sheeley, specifically, for their community-mindedness and their efforts to encourage the circulation of as much accurate information for the benefit of the electorate as possible in what promises to be a hottly contested elections in several key races. I know that this civic-oriented community organization tried to be as fair and accomodating as possible to everyone involved in the "Meet the Candidates" night. David did a great job under some very difficult circumstances and he and the Dobyns Community Club are to be applauded for their efforts.
Feel free to let me know how you stand on this and other important local issues. Your comments are welcome.
Speaking my mind as a proud Patrick Countian,
Richard Rogers
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Fine Dining with Some "Fishers of Men"
One of the many facets of Nettle Ridge United Methodist Church's active community outreach ministry is its annual fish fry, a tradition that has been enjoyed by hungry patrons for the past approximately 8 years. It is altogether appropriate that delicious fish is the main entree of this meal because the fish figures prominently in the Christian faith. It is symbolic of Jesus Christ, our Savior, and His call to believers to practice Christian discipleship ("Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men," directed Jesus as he called the fishermen in Biblical times and each of us today to be His disciples). The feeding of the 5,000 by Jesus with 2 fish and 5 loaves is the only miracle mentioned in all four of the Gospels of the New Testament.
As I was enjoying my mouthwatering dinner of fried fish and all the trimmings Saturday evening, Aug. 18th in the Nettle Ridge church dining hall, it occured to me that, like Nettle Ridge United Methodist and the many other wonderful churches of our great county, we all have an individual responsibility as Christians to follow Jesus and to be His "fishers of men" while we are here on Earch. This idea was reinforced in my church the following Sunday morning, Aug. 19th, when my pastor Rev. Terry Ragsdale of Peters Creek Baptist Church delivered a sermon on Christian discipleship. The Rev. Ragsdale reminded us all that we, as Christians, have the responsibility to share with others God's love and to be witnesses of Jesus' presence in our lives by sharing through our words and deeds. "Terry," as he is known to friends and the congregation, suggested that in order to be effective witnesses that we always be prepared to share with others familiar Bible verses dealing with God's plan of salvation and that we be ready to give our testimony by telling others what God has done for us. We all have a wonderful story to tell about God's blessings in our lives and there are so many out there who are "hungry" to hear the Good News that by faith in Jesus Christ through the grace of God Almighty we have the promise of everlasting life in the paradise of Heaven in our Lord's presence. As Christians, we should be joyful in knowing that great truth and let others witness that joy in us! Let's all cast our lines in the waters of life and try our best of be better "fishers of men." I have a long way to go in setting this example by I challenge myself and others to being more active disciples for Christ. By sharing Jesus with others in a non-imposing and personal way, we can plant seeds that God can cultivate and help to lead others to the same personal relationship with Christ that we treasure.
Thanks again to Nettle Ridge United Methodist Church for their hospitality and a wonderful evening of fantastic fellowship and and fried fish. Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day!"
Richard
As I was enjoying my mouthwatering dinner of fried fish and all the trimmings Saturday evening, Aug. 18th in the Nettle Ridge church dining hall, it occured to me that, like Nettle Ridge United Methodist and the many other wonderful churches of our great county, we all have an individual responsibility as Christians to follow Jesus and to be His "fishers of men" while we are here on Earch. This idea was reinforced in my church the following Sunday morning, Aug. 19th, when my pastor Rev. Terry Ragsdale of Peters Creek Baptist Church delivered a sermon on Christian discipleship. The Rev. Ragsdale reminded us all that we, as Christians, have the responsibility to share with others God's love and to be witnesses of Jesus' presence in our lives by sharing through our words and deeds. "Terry," as he is known to friends and the congregation, suggested that in order to be effective witnesses that we always be prepared to share with others familiar Bible verses dealing with God's plan of salvation and that we be ready to give our testimony by telling others what God has done for us. We all have a wonderful story to tell about God's blessings in our lives and there are so many out there who are "hungry" to hear the Good News that by faith in Jesus Christ through the grace of God Almighty we have the promise of everlasting life in the paradise of Heaven in our Lord's presence. As Christians, we should be joyful in knowing that great truth and let others witness that joy in us! Let's all cast our lines in the waters of life and try our best of be better "fishers of men." I have a long way to go in setting this example by I challenge myself and others to being more active disciples for Christ. By sharing Jesus with others in a non-imposing and personal way, we can plant seeds that God can cultivate and help to lead others to the same personal relationship with Christ that we treasure.
Thanks again to Nettle Ridge United Methodist Church for their hospitality and a wonderful evening of fantastic fellowship and and fried fish. Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day!"
Richard
Monday, August 13, 2007
The Heat Is Still On!
The sultry period of mid-summer known as the "Dog Days," have just passed (ended Aug. 11th , according to tradition) but the weather outside remains frightfully hot, humid, and dry.
As the old Temptations song on Motown Records says..."I wish is would rain." That sentiment is reflected in the desires, wishes, and prayers of many Patrick Countians, especially farmers, who have been stricken by one of the driest summer's that I can remember; one of the hottest too! Weather spotter Clyde Brown at Critz (keep him in your prayers as he undergoes follow-up cataract surgery at Forsyth Memorial Hospital in Winston-Salem Tue., Aug 14th, whose wisdom I value dearly, says he can remember other summers that have been drier. That is true, I'm sure, but we all would agree that most areas of our beautiful country are parched by the lack of rainfall. One of my friends told me the other day that a sign of rain is the lack of dew on the grass in the morning. I've noticed that occurance several times recently but so far the rain has not come, at least not to the terrain near me.
Speaking of the heat, Woolwine weather spotter John Johnson reported today that one of his associates at work recently purchased a new thermometer. John's colleague laid his new temperature gauge on his deck until he had time to put it up. Before he installed it, however, the hands of the thermometer melted in the intense heat. That's pretty hot. It was so hot one afternoon last week that Mary Alley, co-operator of the Coffee Break in Stuart, considered conducting an experiment to see if it was hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk on Main Street in Stuart. I don't know if she finally conducted the experiment but I'll bet it would have come close to cooking in the frying sun.
According to today's forecast, the hot dry weather will continue at least through this weekend. However, I have learned in my years as in radio that the forecast can change in a hurry. Last Friday, for instance, the forecast predicted NO rain for the 7-day forecast period, but that very afternoon a cloud formed and produced about fifteen-one-hundredths of an inch (.15) of rain in the Five Forks to Stateline area along Rt. 8 south fo Stuart toward the North Carolina line. Not much rain at all, but certainly it was very welcome just the same.
When it comes to rain or anything else, just remember that God is aware of our needs and He is faithful to bless us and meet those needs in His own time. So let's just count the blessings that the Lord has given us and trust that He will continue to supply what we need to live and to serve His purpose for our lives. God is good!
"School days, school days, dear old golden rule days..." are about to resume here in Patrick County. The 2007-2008 public school year in Patrick County will officially start Tues., Aug. 14th (the Trinity Christian School year begins Aug. 22nd). I wish the students, teachers, administrators, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, maintenance personnel, and school support personnel of all sorts a productive and safe year. As motorists, we all have the responsibility to drive carefully at all times, especially in school zones and when approaching school buses that are loading and unloading. Observe all traffic laws regarding the safe transportation of our youth, our future, to and from school, and be on the watch for our children who often scamper into the road without thinking. God bless our children and our schools. I encourage parents to get involved in their children's education and show them the love and nurturing they need in these crucial formative years of their lives. I also encourage all citizens to get involved and support our community schools in whatever way that God may lead us. Welcome back, Patrick County students!
I loved the Peach Festival and enjoyed each of the 5 events that made up the weeklong celebration. The Friday night event at Rotary Field that I was grateful to emcee, though hampered by the heat, was a blast as was the Folk Fair at Meadows of Dan Saturday. It is obvious that this year's event, one of the most successful in the 19-year history of the official state peach festival, was successful and very well attended because of what I call the "3 P's"...Planning, Promotion, and Participation. I am proud to have worked with the Chamber of Commerce in stiving to make this year's event successful. For all their hard work and key leadership, I especially thank Tom Bishop, Chamber Executive Director; Janice Wilkens, Chamber President; Dean Goad, Chamber Vice-President; and Major Sponsors, Vicki Hutchens-Bennett of New York Life, Barry Nelson of the Nelson Automotive Family, and John Hopkins of Hopkins Lumber Contractors for their many contributions to the success of Virginia's State Peach Festival, another proud Patrick County tradition.
One final note, the local health care system was enhanced today, Mon., Aug. 13th by the opening of the new rural health clinic, "a physician's office within a hospital" as Janice Wilkins has termed it, at the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital. I enjoyed attending Monday's ribbon cutting. More on the clinic coming up on the local news.
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day."
Your radio friend,
Richard
As the old Temptations song on Motown Records says..."I wish is would rain." That sentiment is reflected in the desires, wishes, and prayers of many Patrick Countians, especially farmers, who have been stricken by one of the driest summer's that I can remember; one of the hottest too! Weather spotter Clyde Brown at Critz (keep him in your prayers as he undergoes follow-up cataract surgery at Forsyth Memorial Hospital in Winston-Salem Tue., Aug 14th, whose wisdom I value dearly, says he can remember other summers that have been drier. That is true, I'm sure, but we all would agree that most areas of our beautiful country are parched by the lack of rainfall. One of my friends told me the other day that a sign of rain is the lack of dew on the grass in the morning. I've noticed that occurance several times recently but so far the rain has not come, at least not to the terrain near me.
Speaking of the heat, Woolwine weather spotter John Johnson reported today that one of his associates at work recently purchased a new thermometer. John's colleague laid his new temperature gauge on his deck until he had time to put it up. Before he installed it, however, the hands of the thermometer melted in the intense heat. That's pretty hot. It was so hot one afternoon last week that Mary Alley, co-operator of the Coffee Break in Stuart, considered conducting an experiment to see if it was hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk on Main Street in Stuart. I don't know if she finally conducted the experiment but I'll bet it would have come close to cooking in the frying sun.
According to today's forecast, the hot dry weather will continue at least through this weekend. However, I have learned in my years as in radio that the forecast can change in a hurry. Last Friday, for instance, the forecast predicted NO rain for the 7-day forecast period, but that very afternoon a cloud formed and produced about fifteen-one-hundredths of an inch (.15) of rain in the Five Forks to Stateline area along Rt. 8 south fo Stuart toward the North Carolina line. Not much rain at all, but certainly it was very welcome just the same.
When it comes to rain or anything else, just remember that God is aware of our needs and He is faithful to bless us and meet those needs in His own time. So let's just count the blessings that the Lord has given us and trust that He will continue to supply what we need to live and to serve His purpose for our lives. God is good!
"School days, school days, dear old golden rule days..." are about to resume here in Patrick County. The 2007-2008 public school year in Patrick County will officially start Tues., Aug. 14th (the Trinity Christian School year begins Aug. 22nd). I wish the students, teachers, administrators, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, maintenance personnel, and school support personnel of all sorts a productive and safe year. As motorists, we all have the responsibility to drive carefully at all times, especially in school zones and when approaching school buses that are loading and unloading. Observe all traffic laws regarding the safe transportation of our youth, our future, to and from school, and be on the watch for our children who often scamper into the road without thinking. God bless our children and our schools. I encourage parents to get involved in their children's education and show them the love and nurturing they need in these crucial formative years of their lives. I also encourage all citizens to get involved and support our community schools in whatever way that God may lead us. Welcome back, Patrick County students!
I loved the Peach Festival and enjoyed each of the 5 events that made up the weeklong celebration. The Friday night event at Rotary Field that I was grateful to emcee, though hampered by the heat, was a blast as was the Folk Fair at Meadows of Dan Saturday. It is obvious that this year's event, one of the most successful in the 19-year history of the official state peach festival, was successful and very well attended because of what I call the "3 P's"...Planning, Promotion, and Participation. I am proud to have worked with the Chamber of Commerce in stiving to make this year's event successful. For all their hard work and key leadership, I especially thank Tom Bishop, Chamber Executive Director; Janice Wilkens, Chamber President; Dean Goad, Chamber Vice-President; and Major Sponsors, Vicki Hutchens-Bennett of New York Life, Barry Nelson of the Nelson Automotive Family, and John Hopkins of Hopkins Lumber Contractors for their many contributions to the success of Virginia's State Peach Festival, another proud Patrick County tradition.
One final note, the local health care system was enhanced today, Mon., Aug. 13th by the opening of the new rural health clinic, "a physician's office within a hospital" as Janice Wilkins has termed it, at the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital. I enjoyed attending Monday's ribbon cutting. More on the clinic coming up on the local news.
Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day."
Your radio friend,
Richard
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