Happy New Year!

Despite the economic nosedive and a myriad of other problems that have befallen us this past year, I enter 2009 feeling blessed and optimistic about the New Year. First, I humbly thank each of my faithful listeners who tune in each morning to my radio program, "The Great Day in the Morning Show." I appreciate your support of my show more than words could express. I pray that God will richly bless each of you in the coming year. Each morning before I go on the air I say a prayer for my listeners and ask God to allow me to say those things that would be an encouragement and a blessing to you. Each day I also feel the power of your prayers working in my life.

I would also like to thank some key people who contribute so much to my progam. These include "my little radio buddy," Madison Stowe, the 7-year-old hostess of "Madison's Moments", Bev Larson, who inspires us with her "Heartwarmers", and Rev. Jim Churchwell, who brings encouragement from the Word of God on "Good Morning Devotions". During the "Quarter Hour of Inspiration" (7:15-7:30 a.m., M-F), these three personalities reach thousands of listeners each morning with messages that inspire us all and help get our day off to a positive start. To Madison, Bev, and Rev. Jim...I send sincere thanks to each of you for all that you do to enhance my show. I am also grateful to Dr. Bucky Hunsicker, Dr. Clint Hopkins, Rev. Tom Sheppard, and Rev. Churchwell for their inspiration and instruction as part of the panel of ministers that has appeared this past year on WHEO's "Everyday Christians," (9:30 a.m. Wednesdays).

Additionally, I would like to thank "Community Conversation" program regulars Lock Boyce ("Patrick County Topics"), Joe Cerino (who leads a study of the Bible's Book of "The Revelation", Vicki Hutchens-Bennett ("Finance Matters in Sickness and in Health"), Del. Ward Armstrong, D-Collinsville, Jackie Belcher, Sue Nester, Vernon Harris, Frank Netherland (Big Band music specials), and Paul Farrar ("Cooking with Paul"). Although the list is too long to include here, thanks to the many other guests who have appeared this past year on the morning call-in show, "Community Conversation". I look forward to welcoming back these and many new special guests to the program in the upcoming year. If you would like to suggest the name of a call-in show guest, call me at 694-3388 or email me at rrogers@sitestar.net.

2008 has presented many challenges and brought more hardships, especially in the economic realm, that any year that I can remember in my life. However, I believe these unfortunate circumstances have united us as a community with a common bond and provided us many opportunites to reach out to assist others and to make a difference in our community. Thanks to the many volunteers of our community who have given so freely of their time, energy, talents, and expertise in furthering various charitable and worthy causes while meeting needs in the community and showing genuine love and compassion for others, epecially the less fortunate. This spirit of brotherly love makes me proud to be a Patrick Countian and fosters hope as the New Year approaches that we will all continue to work together to brighten each other's lives especially when times are the darkest. Have a BRIGHT AND BLESSED 2009! :O) Happy New Year!
Love,
Richard

The Greatest Gift!

We all love to give and to receive gifts. It is one of our most cherished Christmas customs. As we renew this tradition and participate in the giving of gifts this Christmas season, let's remember that Christmas is all about the greatest gift ever given. That is God's gift to mankind of his son, Jesus Christ whose birth we celebrate by giving of tokens of our love or gifts to those we hold dear. In His precious son, Jesus, God gave us all a Savior, who came to this world to fulfill God's plan and to serve as a sacrifice for our innate sinful nature as human beings. Because Jesus paid the price for our sins with he shedding of His blood on Calvary's cross and because he triumphed over death through the Resurrection, we can all, by simple faith in Him, can have a gift that none of us deserve...the gift of eternal life! That is reason for real joy! Seek then to make this a Christ-centered Christmas and rejoice in the fact that God in all his graciousness has given us, the greatest and most precious gift of all, JESUS CHRIST! Let's warmly embrace Jesus as we celebrate His birth!

Merry Christmas, my friends, and a joyfully happy New Year!

Love :O),
Richard

The Greatest Gift!

Taking a Break!

As much as I love my job hosting "The Great Day in the Morning Show" weekdays from 6-10 a.m. on 1270 AM-WHEO, the Heart of Patrick County, it's time to take a break! I'll be taking a week off beginning Monday, Dec. 15th to relax a little, rest my voice, renew my spirit, and rekindle my creativity and enthusiasm. I've been trying in recent months to eat healthy foods, work out daily, get more rest, and generally take better care of myself. However, getting up around 4:00 every morning and going full steam all day long at work, at home, and in my community activities over an extended period of time can really wear you down. Hopefully, a little time off will help me to rebuild my strength, physically and mentally, and allow me to get over the nagging flu-like illness that has been so hard for many of us to shake this season. In order to avoid burnout, every now and then, you've just got to get away from the everyday grind. To put it in terms of mobility, you've got to pull over and get out of the fast lane, and slowly traverse the scenic and peaceful backroads of life for a change.

For the next week, I'll keep busy I'm sure...Christmas shopping (I'm doing more of that on line this year and loving it), decorating my home for the holidays, and taking care of many things in my personal and domestic life that I have neglected because of a lack of time or a misuse thereof. It will be nice, however, to be free of the daily obligations, deadlines, and commitments that are a constant part of our busy lives. For a dramatic change, I plan to do what I want, when I want to do it...or to do nothing at all if I so feel like it. One thing I plan to do for sure is to enjoy some quiet time spent in front of my fireplace enjoying the glittering lights on my Christmas tree. I also plan to take a little more time to do something that I all to often fail to do on a daily basis...read my Bible!

Thanks to Lacey Harbour and Stephen Walker for filling in for me on "The Great Day in the Morning Show" and to the WHEO management for allowing me some time off. I am very thankful and praise God that I have a job, especially considering that many unfortunate citizens of our community are facing unemployment and other hardships during this deep economic recession. I am also grateful that I am able physically and mentally to work and earn a living doing what I enjoy. I am blessed as well with a loving family and many dear friends and loved ones who have been urging me to slow down a little. Well, for the next week, I'm going to listen to them! I'll miss the many faithful listeners who tell me they wake up to my voice each morning but for the next week I'm going to forget that radio was ever invented! Well, time is awasting. I must get on with this all-too-new-to-me business doing WHATEVER I WANT or NOTHING AT ALL! See 'ya!

Love :O) forever,
Richard

A Parade to be Proud of!

I would like to commend the many individuals, churches, schools, civic groups, fire and rescue units, and community organizations who took part in Saturday's 36th annual Christmas parade in Stuart, one of the most successful in the history of this event. It was the best one that I can remember. Galen Gilbert and other volunteers did an excellent job in organizing the parade, putting all the entries in place and getting the parade started on time. I was impressed with the high quality as well as the number of entries in the parade.

My heart was touched to see the hundreds of people that lined the streets of Stuart to view the parade. It was great to be able to relax on a wintry afternoon and forget about our economic woes, personal troubles, and everyday concerns, and to celebrate together Christ's birth and the season of brotherly love. Mother Nature added the perfect touch to an outstanding parade when light snow began falling during the festive holiday procession. I was proud to be a part of it.

I would especially like to thank the Stowe family (Shannon and Jeryl and their daughters Madison and Kaitlyn) for inviting me to ride with them in their parade entry promoting "Madison's Moments," the WHEO Radio program of their oldest daughter, 7-year-old Madison Stowe. Madison does a wonderful job giving us a child's perspective of what being a Christian is all about each day on "The Great Day in the Morning Show." I love Madison and her program and so do thousands of people who tune in to hear her words of encouragement every weekday morning. Madison had a great time tossing candy and waving to the large crowd of spectators along the parade route from the sunroof of the car in which we all rode. I think we tossed nearly 15 pounds of wrapped chocolate candy into the crowd (I must admit that I held back a few Twix and Kit Kats miniatures to enjoy later).

The 2008 edition of this holiday tradition was certainly a parade to the proud of, filled with many moments to remember! Thanks again to everyone who worked so hard to make it a success and the several thousand enthusiastic spectators who appreciated their efforts. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Patrick County. God bless our beautiful county and all of you, its wonderful citizens.

:O) Richard

Christmas Cheer!

Imagine the Christmas morning joy on the face of a child that illuminates a home that otherwise would be darkened by personal struggles and family hardships. This Christmas, more than 500 underpriviledged children in approximately 300 families in Patrick County will experience that joy and a holiday season brightened by the efforts of many Christmas Cheer volunteers and caring citizens of our community.

I wholeheartedly urge citizens throughout the county to support the current Patrick County Christmas Cheer campaign. If you would like to play a role in bringing a joyful Christmas to hundreds of appreciative youngsters and their families, please make donations of new unwrapped toys and gifts or make monetary contributions that will be used by Christmas Cheer volunteers to purchase presents and prepare Christmas boxes for those who are being served by the program. You may also select the name of a child from one of the Christmas Cheer trees located in the local business community, shop for the child whose name you select, and then return the new toys and gifts unwrapped to the business displaying the tree. Christmas Cheer trees are located in Stuart at the Curves Health and Fitness Center, Family Pharmacy, Rite-Aid, and Wal-Mart.

You may also drop off Christmas Cheer donations of new unwrapped toys and gifts and/or money at WHEO Radio, Stuart, or at the Patrick County Extension Service Office in the Patrick County Veteran's Memorial Building, Stuart. Monetary donations may be mailed to Patrick County Christmas Cheer, P.O. Box 222, Stuart, VA 24171. Please make you Christmas Cheer contributions by Dec. 12th. The Christmas packages will be delivered to families being served on Dec. 18th. These families have been notified by letter of their acceptance in this year's program through the Christmas Cheer screening process. Let's bring joy and brightness to their households!

Thanks for your support of this worthy cause that has become a heartwarming holiday tradition in Patrick County. Experience the joy of giving! Please assist Patrick County Christmas Cheer!

Holiday Cheers :O),
Richard

Christmas Cheer!

Imagine the Christmas morning joy on the face of a child that illuminates a home that otherwise would be darkened by personal struggles and family hardships. This Christmas, more than 500 underpriviledged children in approximately 300 disadvantaged Patrick County families will experience that joy and a holiday season brightened by the efforts of many Christmas Cheer volunteers and caring citizens of our community.

I wholeheartedly urge citizens throughout the county to support this current Patrick County Christmas Cheer campaign. If you would like to play a role in bringing a joyful Christmas to hundreds of appreciative youngsters and their families, please contribute donations of new unwrapped toys and gifts or make monetary donations which will be used by Christmas Cheer volunteers to purchase presents and prepare Christmas boxes for those who are being served by the program this year. You may also select a name from one of the Christmas Cheer trees that are located in the local business community, shop for that child yourself, and return the new toys and gifts unwrapped to the business displaying the tree. Christmas Cheer trees are located in Stuart at the Cheers Health and Fitness Center, Family Pharmacy, Rite-Aid, and Wal-Mart.

You may also drop off Christmas Cheer donations of new unwrapped toys and gifts and/or money at WHEO Radio, Wayside Rd., Stuart, or at the Patrick County Extension Service Office in the Patrick County Veteran's Memorial Building, Stuart. Monetary donations may also be mailed to Patrick County Christmas Cheer, P.O. Box 222, Stuart, VA 24171. Please make your Christmas Cheer contributions by Dec. 12th. The Christmas Cheer packages will be delivered to families being served on Dec. 18th. These families have been notified by letter that they have been accepted through the Christmas Cheer screening process. Thanks for your support of this worthy cause that has become a heartwarming holiday tradition in Patrick County. Experience the joy of giving! Please support Christmas Cheer of Patrick County!

Holiday Cheer :O),
Richard

Be Grateful!

Despite the economic hardships that are persistent in our community and across the country and the many personal problems and challenges that we all struggle to deal with every day, we have so much for which to be thankful. So let's count our many blessings during this Thanksgiving season and make the practice a part of our daily routine. Sometimes we as humans tend to take our good fortunes for granted. So let's all take time this Thanksgiving Day and in each and every day to come to reflect upon our many blessings and to return to God the thanks that He so richly deserves as our Creator and the supplier of our needs!

I am especially thankful for the opportunity to serve our community as the host of WHEO's "The Great Day in the Morning Show". Even though I have to get up long before sunrise occasionally work until dusk or beyond, I am truly blessed and honored to have the opportunity to visit you in your homes, autos, and places of business via the medium of radio. Each morning before I go on the air, I make a point to thank God for my treasured listeners and ask Him to empower me to say and do those things that would be uplifting to you and pleasing in our Lord's sight. Sometimes, at the end of my 4-hour airshift, I don't feel that I have succeeded in doing that but I do take satisfaction in knowing that I always do the best that I am capable of doing.

We are blessed to live in this beautiful County of Patrick with such caring friends, neighbors, and loved ones. We are blessed with loving families and dear friends. Most of all, we, as Christians, are truly blessed and will be eternally grateful that God gave as a sacrifice for our sins His precious son and our Savior, Jesus Christ. Have faith!

As my friend Denny Archer masterfully sings in one of my favorite Southern Prophets' songs, "I've got so much to thank Him for." We all do! So lets be grateful this Thanksgiving and every day with which we are blessed beyond.

God bless you this Thanksgiving and always!

Richard

Our Heroes, America's Veterans

Veteran's Day serves as an annual reminder of the many sacrifices that have been made by courageous American soldiers to secure and protect the freedoms that we enjoy as citizens of these great United States of America. Let's all strive to make this more than just a one-day per year tribute. I challenge everyone to express their thankfulness everyday to those veterans who paid the price for the way of life that we sometimes take for grated and that is the envy of much of the world. Don't wait for Nov. 11th each year, seek every day to recognize and express thanks to the veterans of our county and our country. America's veterans, these are our true heroes. Let's seek to honor them everyday! God bless America!

Time to United as Americans

Thankfully the election is over! After a shockingly negative and very divisive campaign (there way too long and expensive), whether or not the candidates we supported were elected to office, it is now time to put aside our political differences and unite as a country behind our new leaders. Only in an environment of non-partisan cooperation, especially in times of unprecedent crises like our country now faces, can we effectivey do the work that will bring the better times that the candidates have promised. It's time to put aside politics and effect the "CHANGE" that the electorate mandated in Tuesday's election. We Americans and our elected leaders need to put our country above our political interests. As hard as it may be to do, given the passion that some of us have for our political viewpoints, it is important that we PRAY for our leaders and ask God to bless them and our country. So, as Christians, let's lift them up in prayer (even if they represent an opposing political party or viewpoint)...and then, as responsible citizens, DEMAND that all of our elected officials work together applying good old-fashioned common sense to solving the many problems that threaten our country and the well-being of "we the people", the still-proud citizens of the United States of America. God bless America! I know that I have been blessed to be able to call her my country...and Patrick, my county!

Richard

Decision '08

Thank goodness the political rhetoric is about done and it is now up to the voters of America to decide who will serve our country as the 44th president of these great United States of America. No matter how your stand on the candidates and the issues, whether you are a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or other, I think we would all agree that we need a change from the policies of the last 8 years which has seen our nation plunge into the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and spend trillions on wars in Iraq and Afghanistan when many Americans are suffering hardships and need help here at home. President Bush, as unpopular as he is, should not have to shoulder the full blame for the miserable circumstances that the country finds itself in. Congress...which, many feel, is more responsive to lobbyists and special interests than it is to the constituents back home has performed miserably as well. Its public opinion approval is even lower then the President's pitiful approximately 24% approval rating. I am not publicly endorsing a particular candidate (I will do my talking at the ballot box or, I should say, the electronic voting machine) but I do think we need to restore some good old- fashioned COMMON SENSE to our government. In is my intention to do my part to try to make that happen by exercising my right to vote in the Tuesday, Nov. 4th election. I urge all of registered Patrick County residents to do the responsible thing and to practice good citizenship by making your choices known at the polls. We will all be participating in the making of American history when we vote in this year's election.

Mock elections in our public schools are often indicative of how our county as a whole will go on election day. Principal Ann Fulcher of Hardin Reynolds Memorial School told me that the straw poll at her school is often a bellwether or a leading indicator of the election trend in the country at large. If that is true, the Republicans will again carry Patrick County Tuesday. Monday morning, on the eve of the election, Hardin Reynolds Memorial School students participated in their annual mock election. With all 12 homerooms reporting, Republican John McCain outpolled Democrat Barak Obama 178-86. The students at HRMS and other Patrick County schools are participating this year in a nationwide mock election involving students from across the United States. "The results are not final due to some of the polls having not opened," said HRMS teacher Gwen Murphy in a Monday morning press release. "We would like to encourage everyone to get out and vote," she added.

Mock election results from other Patrick County schools had not been reported to WHEO at the time of this blog update.

I echo Ms. Murphy's sentiments...please participate in the democratic process that we enjoy as one of our many freedoms in this country. Help protect our liberties, please vote on Tuesday, Nov. 4th, registered Patrick Countians, even if you have to stand in line due to the expected heavy voter turnout in this historic election! America calls upon her citizenry to be concerned and involved in our government! Personally, I am going to ask God to guide me when I step behind the curtain to register my votes. When we do that trusting and believing, whatever life's situation, we can never go wrong! God bless America!

A patriotic Patrick Countian,
Richard T. Rogers

A Voiceless Radio Announcer

To use some familiar sports analogies...it's like a baseball power without his Louisville Slugger; it's like a race car driver with a blown engine. Yes, it's been a bit frustrating the last few days to be a radio show host without a voice. Since Friday, Oct. 24th, I have been battling a flu-like illness and the laryngitis that took my voice away in the midst of my radio show that morning and reduced me to just a whisper. I guess going full steam at work and in my community activities and personal life in recent months has finally taken its toll, sending me a warning to relax and take better care of myself. That's what I've tried to do this past weekend. My main problem is that I don't get enough rest, so I have been trying to catch up in that department lately.

I can tell you that it is helpless feeling to lose the physical ability that serves as the source of my livelihood, my voice. Sometimes we tend to take the talents, skills, and personal gifts that God has given us for granted. All too often, it seems, we don't really fully appreciate something until it is gone. That has been the case with my voice. So, henceforth, I have resolved to be more thankful each day for the blessings that God has given me. Mine may not be the perfectly pitched voice of a national network announcer but it has been good enough to earn a living for me for more years than I care to remember. As I ask God to fully restore it, I am determined to be more thankful for it and the many other gifts that He gives me each day. In fact, I think we would all be wise to do that, don't you?!

What has made battling this illness even more difficult is to look outside and see the beautiful autumn weather and the leaves reaching their peak. How nice it would be out there to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the beauties of nature in the fall. However, I have resisted the temptation to get out there and enjoy the blue skies, green grass, radiant sunshine, and glorious foliage. These are more blessings that God brings to us each fall that we tend to take for granted. Take time this autumn to enjoy them while you can!

I would like to thank those of you who have called to check on me, brought food, or sent get well cards. I appreciate your genuine kindness and concern. My ability to speak is slowly coming back and, hopefully, this voiceless radio announcer will be back on the air in a day or two.

I leave you with my love and a prayer that God will bless you with a great day!

Richard

Autumn Clean-up

We have a beautiful county, even more so in its autumn splendor, and we want to make sure its unmatched natural beauty is not marred by unsightly litter at the peak of the tourist season in Patrick County. That's why I urge my fellow Patrick Countians to join me and other individuals, businesses, churches, civic clubs, and other organizations as we launch the Community-Wide Litter Pick-up for Patrick County this Wednesday, Oct. 15.

The Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, which is spearheading this effort, urges us all to collect litter surrounding our homes, businesses, organiations, roadsides, or other designated locations...and to get our families, friends, and neighbors involved in the campaign too. Keep a litter bag in your vehicle and remember to use it instead of tossing trash our the window. Let's try to condition ourselves and get in the habit of keeping our county clean year round.

This is an ideal time to spruce up our county because the month of October is when the county draws the largest number of visitors to participate in our many fall festivals and other events. The Apple Dumpling Festival and Pancake Days are coming up! This is a self-directed effort to make a real difference in the appearance of our community and encourage visitors to return to our picturesque county. Let's keep it pretty...by getting involved in the Litter Pick-up that starts this week.

There will be another public meeting on the eve of the campaign...Tuesday at noon to 1 p.m. at the community room at Patrick Henry Community College, Patrick County Site in Stuart. Please come if you can get away during the lunch hour.

So far, these individuals have signed on to help make the campaign a success: Vicki Hutchens-Bennett, Tom Bishop, Terry Tilley, Blair Clark, Jay Scudder, Clyde Crissman and Patricia Crissman, Sheriff Dan Smith, Commonwealth's Attorney Stephanie vipperman, Jonathan Large, Wilma Pendleton, Kathy Gravely, Peggy Rogers, Eric Sheppard, Dean and Steve Goad, Robert Foley, Allen Ullring, Cindy and Gary Hoback, Patrick and Crystal Powell, Brenda Simms, Jim Marion, Charlie Bowman, Wayne Cook, Roger Hayden, Jim Keesee, Shirley Keene, Pamela Nowlin, Lemont Bryant, Kevin and Paula Polachek, Laurie Boyd, Tina Collins, Barbara Wagoner, Laura Smith, Lonnie Dillon, Janie Lankford, and yours truly. Won't you join us? I commend everyone who is or will become involved in this Community-Wide Litter Pick-up for making a difference. Let's all make sure that litter and debris will not detract from color spectacular that is transforming our woodlands, landscapes and vistas into an autumn wonderland.

This fall and year round, remember that cleanliness is Godliness. Patrick County is "God's Country"! Let's keep it clean!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

Richard

R

Cougars Win Battle of Battle of Big Cats!

In a landmark moment in the school's football history, Patrick County High School defeated powerful Bassett High School Friday night in a dramatic come-from-behind road victory that boosted a once paltry program to the pinnacle of the Piedmont District.

The Cougars battled back from an 18-point second half deficit to beat the Bengals in the "Battle of the Big Cats" in Bassett in the PCHS Piemont District season opener. In a clash of 4-1 teams, the Cougars claimed district superiority, rallying from a 24-6 deficit midway through the third quarter to get their first win over Bassett in six years. The Cougars phenomenal senior running back John Harris led the amazing comeback, rushing for 239 yards and 2 touchdowns to power the PCHS football program to the next level of competition.

Not only did the win firmly establish PCHS as a Piedmont District football power, it gave us all as Patrick Countians something to be proud of in these very difficult economic times. The Cougars have definitely given our community a much needed lift, and I urge citizens throughout our county to rally behind the team and give them the support that they have earned and that they will need to remain the "Top Cats" in the topsy-turvy world of high school football. Here's to the green and gold! Go Cougars!!!

Beaming with Patrick pride,
Richard

Our Retired Teachers, a Community Treasure!

We all fondly remember our best teachers, whose early influence in shaping our lives has helped to make us what we are today. Even today, some of the best teachers from my school days more than a few years ago continue to have a dramatic impact upon our community and its youth.

Today, I commend the members of the Patrick County Retired Teachers Association (PCRTA) for the excellent work that they continue to do, so well, in fact, that it has earned them a prestigious national award for the third time. PCRTA President Phyllis Eastridge and Treasurer of the PCRTA Ethel Frazier recently attended the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA):AARP Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. The Patrick County Retired Teachers Association was presented with the NRTA's "With Our Youth!" Excellence Award as the outstanding local unit in the entire nation for its work with young people. What is even more remarkable is that the local association has won this this award two times previously.

"Patrick County Retired Teachers Association volunteers are model citizens. They show the world how educators keep giving long after leaving the classroom. Multiple generations benefit and go on to contribute thanks to the dedication of these volunteers," said an NRTA spokesperson.

Retired teachers in Patrick County this year, as in years past, found hundreds of ways to celebrate the special talents of nearly 3,300 youth in our community. Members assisted in the classroom and helped students with their homework and class projects, including science and book fairs. They retired teachers connected with youth through church activities, after-school enrichment programs and day camps. In addition to their local efforts, association members sent school supplies to children in Tanzania. These volunteers also headed local programs for cancer research organizations and those which provide assistance with children's medical expenses.

The PCRTA also helps youth develop marketable skills in the business and learning communities including money management through the "Reality Store" progam and public speaking. The group also awards a scholarship each year to a graduating senior who is planning a career in education.

During the PCRTA's appreciation banquet Friday night (9/26/08) at the Patrick County Community Center, 42 of the association's 66 members were presented certificates recognizing their outstanding service to people of the community. In addition, 28 of the local unit's members were recognized for their work with youth which won the association its 3rd national award.

The statistics are impressive indeed! From July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008, 42 Patrick County Retired Teachers Association members logged a total of 10,282 hours of service to the community. The most active member was Ella Sue Joyce with 654 hours of service. Associaiton members also donated an additional 1,470 hours during the same one year period serving our youth in various ways. A total of 3,298 youth were served by association members during those hours.

Ms. Joyce said she really enjoys keeping busy and serving others in her retirement. "If you have something you want to do, do it before you retire, because you won't have time afterward," she advised prospective retirees. Ms. Joyce said an uncle one responded to a question about his retirement activities by saying "I'm doing what I please." Ms. Joyce said she thinks that's good for retired people adding that members of the local retired teachers association are doing what they please and serving the community at the same time.

I commend the members of the Patrick County Retired Teachers Associaton, some of whom taught me all those years ago, for their outstanding work in the community and urge you to express your appreciation to them.

Until next time, I leave you with my love and a prayer that God will bless you with a "great day"!

Listen for "The Great Day in the Morning Show" weekdays from 6-10 a.m. on 1270 AM-WHEO, "the Heart of Patrick County".

Richard

Another "Classic" in the Books!

A hometown "classic", the 2008 Patrick County Agricultural Fair concluded Saturday night at Rotary Field, having been visited by thousands of patrons during the successful 5 night run.

"This certainly weill be among the top fairs we've ever had, maybe the best," said Henry Ayers who is a veteran of 43 of the 56 Patrick County fairs that the Stuart Rotary Club has sponsored since 1952. The fair apparently took in increased revenue despite the economic gloom and high prices that have forced many consumers to be very selective in their spending. "There has definitely been an effect," commented Ayers on the economic impact on the fair. Ayers theorized that many families and fair visitors were forced to cut back a night or two from their usual fair attendance due to the sour economy and tight finances.

Ayers reported that the fair ran very smoothly with few problems. However, one thing that the Stuart Rotary Club will have to rethink, noted Ayers, is the shuttle service that didn't work out as well as fair officials had hoped. Ayers said there the shuttle needs a dedicated route to the fairgrounds from the distant parking areas because it was very difficult to maneuver around the parked vehicles that pushed the parking capacity to its limits on the heaviest nights, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The sponsoring Stuart Rotary Club would welcome your constructive suggestions on ways to improve the fair.

Ayers said the most memorable thing about this year's fair to him was the people. "The crowd that we did have seemed to be having a lot of fun. It was a very congenial crowd," said Ayers. He added that the fair was blessed with good attendance, absolutely beautiful weather, great exhibits and entertainment, successful grandstand events, and many riders on the midway.

From what riders told me, the "Zipper" was one of the more challenging rides on the midway. "It makes you throw up," said young fairgoer Kelsey Rakes, "it's great"! The food was also great. Despite my newly adopted healthy lifestyle that includes trying to eat nutritious foods and exercise daily, like most folks, I endulged during the fair sampling a little of everything that was available from the various vendors and trying to support as many worthy causes in the community as possible through concessions purchases. Among the treats of my fair menu were a Cattlemen's Assocition steak sandwhich, several polish sausages smothered in sauteed onions and spicy mustard served by Providence United Methodist Church, ribbon fries, a cheesburger and fries from the PCHS band boosters, hotdogs all the way from the Boy Scouts, etc., etc. My best meal, as a Stuart Rotarian, was the night fellow Rotarian Jimmy Morrison's wife Barbara served to the workers of the Stuart Rotary Club pinto beans and onions, corn bread, potato salad, cole slaw, homegrown tomatoes, lemonade, and pound cake for dessert. I ate plenty but I'll return to my healthy lifestyle this week! Hopefully!

Well, isn't that what the Patrick County Agricultural Fair is all about....enjoying one's self and wholesome fellowship with others in a "family reunion" type atmosphere? Yes, that is the essence of this more than 56-year-old tradition that is the Patrick County Agricultural Fair. Perhaps, Kelly Owens, one of the young ladies who enjoyed the midway attractions on opening night, summed it up best when, brimming with laughter and pride, she exclaimed in reference to our beloved fair, "it's a classic, it's a classic"!

Congratulations to these fair winners. The Clogging Contest winners were": Madison Stowe ("My Little Radio Buddy", first place, Junior...Glenda Hubbard, first place, Adult...and Billy Woods, first place, Seniors. The Flatfooting Contest winners were" Kenadie Hutchens, first place, Junior...Verna Shepherd, first place, Adult...Billy Woods, first place, Seniors. The top exhibitors were: PCHS Jr. ROTC, first place, Junior Educational...Patrick County Alzheimer's Association, first place, Adult Educational. In the Commercial division...Blue Ribbon winners were: the JEB Stuart Birthplace Preservation Trust, Hospice of Patrick County, and PAWS. Red Ribbon commercial exhibit winners were: the Patrick County Historical Society and Clark Gas & Oil. White Ribbon commercial booth winners Merritt Farm and Garden Supply and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service.

On behalf of the Stuart Rotary Club, I would like to thank the thousands of participants and patrons who made the 2008 edition of the Patrick County Agricultural Fair one of the best ever, a true "classic"!

Until next time, I leave you with all my love and a prayer that God will bless you with a great day!

:O)
Richard~

Rotary Pride!

As the Stuart Rotary Club conducts its 56th Patrick County Agricultural Fair this week, as president of the club, I take deep pride in our club's more than half-a-century-old tradition of outstanding community service in Patrick County and around the world through Rotary International. Throughout its rich history, Stuart Rotary has adopted a proactive leadership role in an effort to effect positive change and development while maintaining and preserving the traditional values that have distinguished Patrick County as a caring and compassionate community and a wonderful place to live, work (wish we had more jobs but we're working on it), and raise a family.

The infrastructure and physical facilities owned by the Stuart Rotary Club and leased to the County of Patrick figure prominently in the county's recreational and educational programs and provide forums and meeting places for public and private functions year round. In order to provide these facilities and to carry out our mission of community betterment, Stuart Rotary is widely noted and acclaimed for its annual signature project, the Patrick County Agricultural Fair, a thriving community tradition that dates back, as far as our involvement is concerned, to 1952. As well as providing wholesome family entertainment and the opportunity for fellowship to residents of the community and attracting tourists to Patrick County, the fair is one of the major lifelines that provides funds for Stuart Rotary Club's exemplary community service work. All of the proceeds from the fair and other club projects are reinvested in our community and our facilities, providing a sports/educational complex used by citizens throughout the community and support and financial assistance to other organizations and community partners that serve a cross section of the residents of Patrick County.

Stuart Rotary is especially honored to provide annual educational scholarships for deserving youth, assisting students in furthering their education beyond high school. Stuart Rotarians are also proud to invest club resources in these partner organizations that also serve the county with great distinction: Boy and Girl Scouts, Caring Hearts Free Clinic, 4-H, Hospice of Patrick County, Patrick County Education Foundation (GED graduation), Community Food Bank, Patrick County Music Association, United Fund, and many others. Stuart Rotary also sends students to youth leadership training programs annually as well as a variety of toehr worthy causes in the community.

This proud tradition of community service would not have been possible without the dedication of many community-minded individuals who have graced our club's membrship rolls over the years. Sadly, this past year, our club lost to death three distinguished Rotarians whose names became synonymous with service during their many years in the club. I have dedicated my year as president of Stuart Rotary Club to honor the memory of Curtis Carter, Bill Staples, and Bub Stanley. These Rotarians can never be replaced but we can draw inspiration and determination from their dedication to God, their famileies, this club, and our community. Let us see to follow their example of "Service Above Self," which is what being a Rotarian is all about.

I encourage everyone to come to the 2008 Patrick County Agricultural Fair (Sept. 16-20) and enjoy what "Mr. Patrick County Fair" Henry Ayers accurately described as a "one big homecoming"! Great care has gone into making this a safe, entertaining, educational, wholesome family-oriented event that showcases the very best of Patrick County including its agricultural products, educational institutions, business community, civic organizations, churches, and talented citizens. It is with great pride that, for the 56th consecutive year, the Stuart Rotary Club presents one of the premiere rural fairs in the country, the PATRICK COUNTY AGRICULTURAL FAIR! Enjoy! I know I will!

Until next time, I leave you with all my love and a prayer that God will bless you with a "great day" and us all with a wonderful fair!

At your service,
Richard Rogers :O)

A Historic Patrick Powwow!

It is not everyday that we can participate in an historic event in our county. But this past Saturday provided just such a rare opportunity and I seized the moment! I spent a very enjoyable afternoon in the company of hundreds of other local residents and Native Americans from across the country who attended an historic event in Patrick County. "This is the first Cherokee Powwow that has been held in this area since the 1700s when the Cherokees held them at Fairystone," said Little Wolf, wife of Chief Griffith of the Wolf Creek Cherokee Tribe of Stuart, which hosted a 3-day intertribal powwow at Rotary Field Friday through Sunday (Sept. 5-7).

Native Americans from as far away as Oklahoma (perhaps further) came to Patrick County to participate in the 3-day celebration of Native American culture. One family from Oklahoma came back to this area for the first time since the forced relocation of their ancestors during the infamous westward march known as the "Trail of Tears." Little Wolf said that during that unfortunate episode of Native American history in the 1830s, Native Americans were abruptly driven from their homes by the "white man" and forced to march to Oklahoma in the snow, at a cost of the lives of the approximately 4,000 Native Americans who died during the sorrowful sojourn.

The Cherokee powwow also attracted many local residents (some with Native American ancestry) and hundreds of school children. On the first day of the Cherokee powwow, almost 500 Patrick County students also had a chance to participate in the making of history when they visited the Cherokee tribe at Rotary Field which was dotted with tee pees and merchandise vendors. The youngsters loved what proved to be a fun learning experience. "They didn't want to leave," said Little Wolf, noting that the students really enjoyed learning about Native American customs and touring the vendors who sold American Indian merchandise. "The vendors loved the children coming," she added.

I too can say that I learned much about Native American culture, etiquette, music, dance, and native foods while enjoying the fellowship of many of my friends and the new Native American friends that I made during my visit.

As many of you know, I really enjoy the food at these celebrations and festivals. It was tough to choose, but I finally decided to try the fry bread for which Native Americans are noted. This huge piece of fried bread was topped with lettuce, hamburger, onions, and cheese which could be called an Indian taco. It was delicious but would have been even better with a few tomatoes, some salsa, and a dash of sour cream. Oh well, I'm not complaining! The Native American fare also included Buffalo Burgers, a smaller fry bread with powered sugar, and mouthwatering corn on the cob grilled in the shuck and smothered with butter. By the way, folks from the Moorefield Store Volunteer Fire Department did a great job preparing and serving the food which everybody enjoyed freely. Fortunately, folks had a chance to walk off a few of those calories in the spacious setting of the powwow in the outfield of the softball diamond at Rotary.

I was amazed at the rich pagentry of this event that featured Native American dancers and musicians performing during tribal ceremonial events. The Indian dress worn by these dancers was magnificent!

One of the things I learned Saturday was never to call a Native American dancer's outfit a "costume." This special dress is properly called "regalia." I was told by Native American dancer Keith Smith from Dinwiddie, VA, "a costume is something you wear when you are pretending to be something you're not. We're not pretending; we're the real thing. We are American Indian"!

It was my pleasure to spend a delightful Saturday afternoon in the company of these authentic Native Americans, enjoying their fellowship, participating in their historic Patrick powwow, and learning about their customs and way of life. At the end day, we were all proud , not only of our varied individual ancestries, but proud too to be AMERICANS, native or not!

Until next time, may God (or "Creator" as the Native Americans refer to the Divine Being) bless you with a "great day"!

:O)
Richard

Raising the Community's "Cougar Consciousness"!

As the Patrick County High School football, volleyball, and golf teams begin their seasons, many citizens are working to generate public support for PCHS athletics and to raise funds to benefit the high school. These groups should be commended for their work to raise our community's "Cougar Consciousness", a spirit of community support and pride in our PCHS teams.

This enthusiasm for PCHS athletics was apparent Friday night as the Patrick County High School Alumni Association hosted a tailgate party before the Cougars took on cross-the-border rival North Stokes High in a preseason game that served as a tune-up for this Friday night's regular season opener against Carroll County at home. "We're here looking for another great season (last year the PCHS football team finished as the Piedmont District runner-up and went to the regionals)," said Rickie Fulcher, President of the PCHS Alumni Association, adding, "we're excited to be here and be a part of it."

"We're staying busy," said Fulcher, noting that the PCHS Alumni Association, formed just a couple of years ago, is conducting fund-raisers for various PCHS projects. The alumni organization has already raised money to provide scholarships, upgrade the sound system at John D. Hooker Field, and to install a utility shed at the field. The group's main project now is to raise money for renovation of the PCHS auditorium, an ambitious $100,000 project that is being supported by other groups in the community including the Patrick County Partnership for the Arts.

As part of the fund-raising activities, the Patrick County Cattlemen's Association served steak sandwiches at the tailgate party and the PCHS Alumni Association served hotdogs and hamburgers during Friday night's 59-22 victory by the Cougars over North Stokes in a scrimmage game for the Cougars and an official regular season game for the Vikings.

"We want everyone to think of us as an organization that's here to help other organizations," said Fulcher of the PCHS Alumni Association. For more information, visit www.patrickalumni.com.

"There seems to be a lot of community involvement now," said Fulcher with regard to work being done by the alumni association and other groups to support the Cougars academic and scholastic programs and our public schools in general.

Another key supporter that is raising "Cougar Consciousness" is the newly-renamed Patrick County High School Cougar Club (formerly the Athletic Boosters Club) which is guided by Kelly Witt. I am scheduled to interview Kelly and the school system's new activitities director Todd Purdham this week.

In his newly-created position, Mr. Purdham will oversee the PCHS athletic program and serve as the coordinator of athletics throughout the Patrick County Public School System, working closely with Recreation Director Clyde Crissman.

Always know as a baseball power, the Patrick County High School athletic program, fueled by rising "Cougar Consciousness" in the community, is emerging as comprehensive, well balanced operation that fields teams and individual athletes that are highly competitive in all sports.

Be a "Cougar Conscious" cheerleader! I urge you to don your green and gold and come out Friday night, Aug. 29th, to cheer for the Cougars as they go against a touch Carroll County team in their regular season and home football opener. Go Cougars!!!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

Richard Rogers,
A proud Patrick patriot

Where's the Beef?

Clara Peller, the little old lady who gained fame in the 1984 advertising campaign for Wendy's Restaurant in which she inquired "Where's the Beef?", would have exclaimed "Eureka" (Greek for "I have found it.") if she had visited Salem United Methodist Church in Patrick County Saturday night (8/16/08). Grilled to savory perfection by chef Wilbur Walker of Critz, the beef was in plentiful supply at Salem's annual $25 per person steak dinner.

Pastor Sarah Doss and the congregation of the beautiful 182-year-old little country church welcomed a large crowd of hungry patrons that filled the church fellowship hall to near capacity during much of the 2 and 1/2-hour dinner. What a lovely church and a friendly bunch of members.

My friend Wilbur Walker told me that he and assistants Chris Caviness and Tom Doss, the pastor's husband, grilled more than 125 steaks that were cooked to order by each of the people who enjoyed the feast. The tender, juicy steaks were huge 1 and 1/4 inch hunks of expertly grilled meat 'dripping with love' and bursting with flavor, and were served with baked potato, 7 layer salad, apple and pineapple casserole, Texas toast, team, lemonade, coffee, and a wide variety of desserts including coconut pie, banana pudding, pecan pie, and many more. The meal was well worth the wait as chefs sought to grill every steak to the exact doneness requested by each customer, many of whom come to this event year after year.

In addition to grilling an excellent steak, Wilbur Walker is also widely noted for the blackpot chicken that is another of his signature dishes. He and the Patrick Springs Ruritans cook up to 800 pounds of blackpot chicken each fall at the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival at Ferrum College. Wilbur also teams up with his dear friend and mine Clyde Brown, WHEO's Critz weather spotter, to make molasses from the cane that they raise each autumn. "He's a pretty good cook," said Mr. Brown of his pal Wilbur.

Wilbur enjoys cooking at the church dinners that Salem United Methodist Church holds regularly. Each of these nearly monthly dinners is planned around a central theme...Tex-Mex, Puerto Rican, Italian, etc. Wilbur has been cooking since the mid-1970s when he learned to make blackpot chicken from his uncle in Franklin County. A member since he came here from Franklin County in 1974, Wilbur finds great joy in being a member of Salem United Methodist Church. "There is a lot of love here," said Walker, adding boastfully "we have the best cooks in Patrick County." After enjoying one of Wilbur's mouth-watering steaks Saturday night, he may not have been just 'shootin' the bull' when he made that tongue-in-cheek claim!

Thanks to Pastor Sarah Doss and everyone at Salem United Methodist Church for your gracious hospitality. Special thanks to my buddy Wilbur Walker who always brings me back blackpot chicken from Ferrum each year and remembers me in many other kind ways. Wilbur gave me a free ticket to Saturday night's dinner which I appreciate very much. I must say, though, that I worked for my meal because, like most places I go on weekends, right after I eat, I am transformed into "Richard on the Road" doing interviews and gathering information for my radio news features. My Saturday night visit to the steak dinner at one of Patrick County's oldest churches resulted in a 3-part series of "Richard on the Road" reports titled "Salem United Methodist Church: a Praying Church" (and, as Pastor Doss says, "an Eating Church") that will air this week.

Until next time, may God bless you with a great day!

At your service with love :O),

Richard

Congratulations Wood Brothers!

Congratulations to the legendary Wood Brothers Racing team! After struggling for much of the season and failing to make the field for several races for the first time in their storied history, apparently the team is turning its season around. With promising young Australian driver Marcos Ambrose behind the wheel, the Wood Brothers' no. 21 Little Debbie Ford Fusion finished a remarkable third in the Sprint Cup road course race at Watkins Glenn, N.Y., on Sun., Aug. 10th.

It was one of the team's best finishes in years. The last victory for Wood Brothers Racing was in 2001 at Bristol with Elliott Sadler behind the wheel.

What was even more remarkable about this top 5 run was that Ambrose, who started dead last, worked his way through the field from the 43rd positon to finish 3rd in just his third Sprint Cup race. Ambrose is a "road racer extraordinaire," said one ESPN announcer after Sunday's Spring Cup race. The strong run in the Wood Brothers Ford was part of a great weekend for Ambrose. Driving for another team, he piloted the STP Ford to victory in Saturday's Nationwide Series race, his first NASCR victory.

Sunday's performance marked the second week in a row that the Wood Brothers have been very competitive. Bill Elliott drove the Wood Brothers entry to a 20th place finish in the Spring Cup race at Pocono Speedway on Aug. 3rd.

It looks like the team's hard work is paying off and its run of bad luck in recent years is turning around! Again congratulations to Wood Brothers Brothers racing on their recent success. Even though the team was forced to move from its Stuart shop to the Charlotte, N.C., area several years ago in an effort to remain competitive, members of the team still call Stuart and Patrick County home and maintain residences here. I see Glenn and Bernice Wood of Stuart and other family members in the Coffee Break quite often. As pioneers of the sport of auto racing, the Wood Brothers have done much to promote our community and I extend my personal appreciation and congratulations.

Food, Fellowship, and Fund-Raising Go Together!

Let's fact it. We live in a relatively poor county where fund-raising by dedicated volunteers helps to generate many of the funds needed by many community organizations in order to serve our citizens. We are certainly blessed by the spirit of volunteerism and the let's-get it done attitude of citizens that pervades our county. In that regard, a healthy combination of food, fellowship, and fund-raising are a common weekend activity for Patrick County churches, clubs, civic, and community organizations. This past Saturday, for example, 3 Methodist churches in Patrick County conducted events of this sort, and "Richard on the Road," a hungry Baptist, attended all of them.

My first stop, shortly after 8 a.m., was at Providence United Methodist Church which serves breakfast to the public on the first Saturday each month to raise dollars for the church building fund. I was warmly greeted by Pastor David Westmoreland and members of the congregatoin, who served a mouth-watering home-cooked breakfast (complete with eggs, sausage, biscuits, 2 kinds of gravy-regular and Kevin Polachek's spicy "Northern" version, apples, blueberry bancakes, coffee, juice, jellies, and jams). The church does not charge but accepts donations from their patrons after they've enjoyed their meal. Why, if your put a $20 bill in the basket, it would still be a bargain for this breakfast along with all of the good fellowship that goes with it.

Pastor David pointed out that this event is part of the church's outreach ministry, noting that it had just hosted as special guests the Adam Willard family of 5 that lost its mobile home in a fire last week and is residing temporarily in the Penny House in Patrick Springs. I commend the "church with the big red doors," as I often call it, for its community-mindedness, hospitality, and an excellent breakfast.

After my breakfast wore off several hours later, I decided to have a lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs with my friends at Concord United Methodist Churchh, site of a Saturday morning yard and bake sale. Sure Concord is famous for its delicious homemade ice cream, but members of this little country church are as good on the grill as they are with the ice cream freezer. Unfortunately, by the time I arrived around midday, a heavy thunderstorm had abruptly forced curtailment of this fund-raiser. Although I didn't get lunch, I did get a news story! Senior member Jesse Mae Vernon and her grandson Keith Vernon told me that Saturday's fund-raiser had been planned to raise money for a new project in the church's outreach ministry. Members of the church are preparing packages that will be sent to our troops abroad (especially those from Patrick County) later this month. Jesse Mae and Keith said the church wants to let our soldiers know that they are loved and supported back at home. I commend Concord United Methodist Church for this wonderful effort to reach out to our troops on foreign battlefronts with loving kindness. Let's all keep America's soldiers and military personnel in our constant prayers! By the way, my Concord friends, I'll take a rain check on the lunch I missed! :O)

My third and final church visit of the day came Saturday evening when I attended the 14th annual Pig Pickin' and Gospel Singing, a summertime tradition at New Hope United Methodist Church. Member Henry Ayers said the event offers wholesome family entertainment and raises money for the church's Lord's Acre fund. Member Shirley Collins added that although the crowd was off a little this year, the event attracted a large number of hungry people. I'll say! Here's proof! By the time I got in line for a take-out about 2 1/2 hours after serving had begun, all of Burton Conner's barbecue...200 pounds of it...had been consumed by the ravenous crowd...every bit of it! Thus, for the second time that day, uncharacteristically, I had missed a meal! Fortunately, for me, however, I'd eaten earlier that afternoon at the annual volunteer appreciation banquet for Patrick Share and the Patrick County Community Food Bank (I commend the volunteers of these organizations). What a spread...barbecued chicken, regular barbecue, barbecue with mushroom sauce, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, roles, coleslaw, sweet tea, and coconut pie and pound cake for dessert.

Still I missed two out of the three church meals that I attended. Oh well, I'll have many more opportunities in months to come to indulge as Patrick County churches, clubs, civic, and community organizations offer food, fun, and fellowship to aid in their very worthy fund-raising efforts.

Until next time, you have all of my love and a prayer that God will bless you with a "great day"!

Your "Great Day in the Morning Show" host,
Richard

Back to School Drive is On!

WHEO Radio...in cooperation with various community partners...has officially launched a countywide campaign to collect and distribute school supplies to underprivileged children in the community as the new Patrick County school year approaches. WHEO is working closely with Kevin and Paula Polachek, who are well-known for their outstanding charity work in the community, a host of local businesses, the Patrick County Recreation Department, and Patrick County Public Schools.

Concerned citiens are asked to purchase school supplies anywhere they so desire and drop them off at collection sites throughout Patrick County. If you prefer, you may also make monetary donations that will be used by campaign volunteers to purchase school supplies for needy students. Donations of school supplies (pens, pencils, paper, notebooks, packpacks, etc.) will be collected over a two week period and then distributed to Patrick County's schools that will then direct them to the students who need them the most.

Collection boxes have been placed at these participating business establishments: MNM in Ararat, Orchard View Market in Woolwine, M&M in Critz, Poor Farmer's Market at Meadows of Dan, Bengle Outlet in Stuart, Stuart Tire and Auto Center, Lowes Foods in Stuart, Dollar General in Stuart, Food Lion of Stuart, Wal-Mart in Stuart, Lighthouse Grill at Fairystone, and the DeHart Park Pool in Stuart.

If you desire to contribute money, make checks payable to WHEO Back to School Fund. Send your contributions to WHEO, 3824 Wayside Rd., Stuart, VA 24171, Attn: Richard Rogers, or to SunTrust Bank, 114 W. Blue Ridge St., Stuart, VA 24171, Attn: Vicki Collins. Again, make all checks payable to WHEO Back to School Fund.

WHEO Back to School Supplies Drive volunteers will visit various local businesses on Sat., Apr. 2nd, and will have lists available of specific school supplies that will be needed. Also on Apr. 2nd, patrons of the Dehart Park Pool who use their pool pass and bring school supplies will receive a free soft drink. Those who pay the daily pool fee will get a 50-cent discount with the donation of school supplies.

Rising prices and poor economic conditions have left many Patrick County families financially strapped and many youngsters in our community might have to go without adequate school unless we act as a community of concerned citizens to address this growing need.

Persons wishing to donate school supplies are reminded that the best time to purchase them will be during the state sales tax holiday that will extend from Fri., Aug. 1 to Sun., Aug. 3.

My thanks to Kevin and Paula with whom it is always my pleasure to work, Patrick County Public Schools, the Patrick County Recreation Department, participating businesses, and concerned citizens. i appreciate your support of the first WHEO Back to School Supplies Drive! God bless you and God bless the future of our county, our young people!

Love :O)
Richard

Welcome Home Tribe!

With pride, our community welcomes home a group of young heroes called the Virginia Tribe! The Patrick County state champion 10 and under baseball team returned home late last week after competing in the USSA World Series in Lexington, S.C. While the Tribe did not win the World Series, this outstanding group of young players did bring home a consolation trophy.

After losing their first four games of the tournament and being placed in the consolation round, the Virginia Tribe came back to post two consecutive victories and earn the championship and team trophy in the USSA World Series consolation bracket. Each of the players also received individual trophies. The strong finish capped a remarkable season that was highlighted by a state title and a once-in-a-lifetime experience in South Carolina during the World Series. Each of the players, their parents, and their fine coaches should be as proud of their performance this season as our commuity is of them. It was a great honor just to make it to the World Series. The players have been outstanding young ambassadors for our county throughout the season...and we proudly welcome them back to Patrick County, home sweet home!

Congratulations to team members Trevor Belcher, Tucker Brown, Cayden Dalton, Landon Gunter, Isaiah Hall, Aubrey Hopkins, Eli Horton, Will Hylton, Jacob Martin, Nathan Perry, and Austin Vernon. The Virginia Tribe is coached by Laine Dalton, Ricky Vernon, and Garry Brown. We commend the parents of these players for their dedication, support, and encouragement. Also to be commended are the citizens in the community who supported fund-raising events that generated over $10,000 to pay for the team's trip to South Carolina.

A special event is being planned to honor the Virginia Tribe baseball team as well as the Patrick County Dixie Youth Minor and Major League All-Star teams, all of whom have had outstanding seasons. Kevin and Paula Polachek and I are organizing the event which has been temporarily placed on hold until the Major League All-Stars season is completed. Thanks to the many businesses and organizations that have made donations that will help to make the post-season event possible. Stay tuned to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" for details on when the "Welcome Home Heroes" celebration will take place and come out and honor the youth of our county!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

Richard

Go Tribe!

Congratulations to the Virginia Tribe, the inspiring youth baseball team from Patrick County, on an outstanding season that has earned it the right to compete this week in the U-Triple S World Series near Columbia, S.C. The team, comprised of players age 10 and under, won the Virginia state championship in route to a record of 16-7 this season.

The Virginia Tribe began play with two games on Monday, July 14th in the World Series, competing against the best team from this region and across the country. "It will be a once in a lifetime trip" for the players, said coach Lane Dalton. He noted that the parents of the team members are just as excited about the World Series experience as the players are.

The Patrick County team is looking forward to the stiff competition that they will face in South Carolina this week. "We're a complete team. We hit, pitch, and play defense well," said Dalton.
My best to the Virginia Tribe in the World Series! The team's roster includes Nathan Perry, Trevor Belcher, Eli Horton, Austin Vernon, Will Hylton, Isaiah Hall, Aubrey Hopkins, Jacob Martin, Landon Gunter, Tucker Brown, and Caden Dalton. The Tribe is coached by Lane Dalton, Ricky Vernon, and Gary Brown.

Whether they win or lose in the South Carolina World Series, this team is a true champion and their conduct on and off the field has been a source of inspiration to country citizens throughout the season. We want to show the team just how proud we are of them when they return home from the World Series. The Great Day in the Morning Show will sponsor a congratulations and welcome home party for the team after the series. I am joining Kevin and Paula Polachek in planning this event. Stay tuned to my WHEO morning show for the latest details on how the team is doing this week, and when and where the welcome home (hopefully, victory celebration) event will be held.

Most of the players on the Virginia Tribe were also members of the Patrick County Dixie Youth Minor League All-Stars which were playing for the District 3 tournament title in Blacksburg until the tournament was abrubtly cancelled. After shutting out Montgomery County Friday night 3-0, the Patrick County All-Stars were preparing for a rematch with Blacksburg, the only team to defeat them, on Saturday. However, just as the team was preparing to leave Saturday morning to return to Blacksburg, coach Dalton said in a message left on the WHEO answering machine Sunday, "we received a call from the district director saying the tournament had been cancelled as Patrick County had elected to go no further than District 3 and as most of the players were coming to the World Series. "I really don't know what happened," said a Dalton. Apparently tournament officials awarded the tournament championship to Blacksburg and apparently Patrick County finished as the runner-up, added a baffled Dalton. If more information becomes available on this very puzzling turn of events, I'll share it with you.

Hopefully, the Tribe's players will put this very unfortunate situation behind them and will be ready to play their best in South Carolina. Congratulatins once again to the Virginia state champion Virginia Tribe 10 and under baseball team. We're behind you all the way! You are champions in every sense of word!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

A proud Tribe fan,
Richard Rogers

A Taste of Summer!

I always look forward to the annual rite of summer that takes place in early July each year. No, as patriotic as I am and as much as I cherish our American freedoms, I am not referring to the Fourth of July celebration here. But annually around America's Independence Day observance, the gardens of Patrick County begin yielding one of the most tantalizing of all their bounties, delicious, irresistible, vine ripened, homegrown TOMATOES! And nothing makes as simple and satisfying a summertime meal as a good old-fashioned homegrown in Patrick County tomato sandwich.

No other dish seems so adequately to capture the "taste of summer" as the traditional southern tomato sandwich. Some folks practically live off of them during the summer. Nothing quite hits the spot on a hot, steamy summer's day than a refreshingly palate-pleasing homegrown tomato sandwich. Although some variations are popular, the general consensus seems to be that the perfect ingredients of a homegrown tomato sandwich should be two fresh slices of white bread, covered with a generous topping of mayonnaise on both sides and graced with several healthy slices from the heart of a fresh-from-the-garden, juicy, vine-ripened tomato, grown with tender care and "drippin' with love":O)! Sprinkle on (to your personal taste) some salt and pepper (I apply freely from the shakers myself), top with the second slice of mayo-smeared bread, and enjoy a summertime sensation that is fit for a king or a country boy like me. In fact, the most cunning connaisseur could not resist the unmistakable burst of flavor that this southern delicacy draws from our tantalized tastebuds.

For me, the 10-month wait (from September through June) and craving for this summer favorite ended on July 1st when I enjoyed my first homegrown tomato sandwich of the season. The first of many to be consumed this summer, it featured one of the first fruits from the crop of renowned Patrick County tomato grower, James "Spot" Ray, my stepfather, who is widely known for carefully nurtured tomato crop. With advancing age and a declining energy level that goes with it, Spot has cut back somewhat on his crop this year but he still spends considerable time in the garden and the fruit of his vines is no less than sensational in flavor. "The Tomato Man," as Spot has affectionally been nicknamed, still gives his tomatoes the same care and attention that they have always received. His tomato plants are always immaculately cultivated, staked, mulched, watered, and manicured to produce a product that has been the centerpiece of my family's summer diet for as long as I can remember. How could this gourmet ever make it through the "dog days" of summer without my highly-touted, freely-consumed tomato sandwiches. Thanks to my stepdad and the many other tomato growers of Patrick and surrounding counties that keep so generously and skillfully supplying the main ingredient for "a taste of summer" that few can resist!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day" and a bountiful tomato crop!

Lovin' it,
Richard

Taking Pride in America on her Birthday

Happy Birthday, America! Those "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer" are being enjoyed by many of you who are taking it easy this week, traditionally a time for vacations, as the 4th of July celebration draws near. Let's not get so caught up in our busy lives that we forget just how fortunate we are to live in the United States of America.

I sometimes disagree with our government policies, and I am ashamed of government's response (more correctly lack of resonse) to many of the problems facing our country. However, I am a proud American who feels fortunate to live in this corner of the planet. Sure we have some idiots running the country right now (especially in the United States Congress) but the fact of the matter is that we are blessed to live in a country that was founded as a nation that places its trust in God. Unfortunately, over the years, we seem to have gotten away from God as a society and a country. As a result this drift away from God, I think our country has suffered much in the process. Sure, this is still the greatest nation on earth but that position of world preeminence is being challenged. God and country are inseparable in my opinion. And until our nation once again is becames "one nation under God" and reassumes it's positon as a people and a nation that can truly say "In God We Trust," our beloved country will continue to decline on the world stage. This return to our roots and the intentions of the founding fathers includes positing the Ten Commandments in public buildings and making a place for prayer in our schools. AMEN!

So as we observe our nation's independence and celebrate Ameria's 232nd birthday on July 4, 2008 (a national holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776), let's all be grateful and proud to be Americans. Let's also lift up our country in prayer asking that, as Lee Greenwood said in his popular contemporary patriotic song, "God Bless the USA" or, as the great Kate Smith inspired us in song with Irving Berlin's famous lyrics "God Bless America"!

Speaking of the upcomg holiday...with gas prices near $4 and rising, this might be a great year for a "staycation"...a vacation or 4th of July celebration close to home. Dehart Park will offer the perfect setting for a family outing this Friday, July 4th as the 6th annual 4th in the Park Independence Day Celebration and Car Show take place. The festivities will include one of the largest car shows in the region, a patriotic parade, pool activities, food, games, pool party, exhibits, vendors, live music, and a giant fireworks display to cap a full day of fun and fellowship in one of our most beautiful community resources, Dehart Park in Stuart.

The Vesta Community Center will serve as the setting for the annual 4th of July bluegrass and Old Time Music Competition. In addition to the music competition at three levels, children, teen and adult, a quilty show and food and games for the children will be offered.

The Blue Ridge Passage Resort at Meadows of Dan will also present a fireworks display on the night of the 4th of July.

Whatever your plans for the 4th of July, take pride in our country and thank God for the opportunity to live in this great land. Happy Birthday, America!

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

O:)
Richard

A Short Life Well Lived!

Family, friends, and neighbors paid their final respects to my friend Brandon Dillon, 7, of Stuart, during a very touching funeral service Saturday morning in the chapel of Community Funeral Services in Stuart. The service was conducted by the Rev. Jim Churchwell, pastor of New Life Community Fellowship, and Dr. Clyde DeLoach, former pastor of Stuart United Methodist Church with music provided by Debbie Bennett and the Southern Prophets. Brandon, the loving youth who inspired our community during his courageous fight against leukemia, was then laid to rest at Patrick Memorial Gardens. After the graveside ceremon, Brandon's sisters, Tiffany and Sara, and with other children and adults released butterfly-shaped balloons that soared skyward symbolizing to me the freedom from disease and suffering that Brandon now enjoys in Heaven.

Even though Brandon's life was very brief, it was certainly well lived. In fact, we can all gain much insight into the way God wants us to live our lives by looking at the way Brandon lived his. As Rev. Churchwell said during ceremony, Brandon truly "lived, loved, and cared." This sandy-haired youth truly lived his life from moment to moment, never complaining about his situation or wasting a minute. When he was able, Brandon, who was filled with optimism and zest for life, was always on the go, drawing the most from each precious moment of his life. Brandon was one of the most loving children that I have ever met, and he didn't mind telling you that he loved you either. I will never forget the warmth that filled my heart when he spoke the words "I love you" to me from his death bed. Most of all, Brandon cared for other people above himself. He loved his mother and sisters dearly and did not rest until he knew they were happy, safe, and secure. Brandon also cared deeply for other people. Nicknamed "the little preacher boy" because of his strong faith in Jesus, he would often put his hand upon the forehead of family members and friends and say a special prayer uniquely tailored to their particular needs or circumstances. Yes, Brandon truly "lived, loved, and cared" for others.

The measure of a life is not in the number of years lived; the quantity of possessions obtained; or the amount of riches, fame, and fortune acquired. The true measure of a life is the love that we give freely to others and the enrichment that we bring to their lives through our words and deeds. Brandon devoted his short life to living fully, loving tenderly, and caring compassionately for others. Life is a gift from God never to be squandered or to be taken for granted. Brandon's life only lasted 7 short years, but his was undoubtedly a life well-lived.

Speaking personally, Brandon has served as a inspiration to me to try to make some changes and improvements in my own life. Just as he did in life, even in death, this young man (the word "boy" just doesn't seem appropriate in reference to Brandon because of advanced maturity) can serve as a role model and example to all, young and old alike, of what being a Christian is all about, loving God and serving our neighbors above ourselves.

Brandon is now marveling at the wonders of Heaven in the presence of Jesus, but his life still speaks volumes to my heart and to the hearts and lives of the many others who knew and loved him. I am proud to have known him and inspired by what I learned about life from him. I know that I can do a much better job in living my life having for just a brief moment in time watched and admired him as he lived his. I am sure that the first thing God said to Brandon upon his arrival in Heaven was "well done, my child, well done." Brandon Webster Dillon's life was well-lived, indeed! God rest his soul.

Please keep Brandon's family in your prayers, and in honor of his memory, please join me in seeking in our own lives to..."live, love, and care".

Until next time, may God bless you with a "great day"!

Richard

Heaven Welcomes My Friend, Brandon!

I lost a dear little friend with a big heart today! Brandon Dillon...the beloved 7-year-old Stuart boy who inspired our community with his courage, his concern for others, and his passion for life...died Wednesday, June 18, 2008, peacefully and victoriously ending his 5-year battle against leukemia. Since age 2, Brandon suffered from acute lympoblastic leukemia, a form or leukemia, or cancer of the white blood cells.

Brandon inspired the founding of Faith for the Miracle, a Christian ministry that serves children with cancer or rare diseases and their families. Tammy Bowman, who founded the ministry with her husband Brad, said Brandon was a most remarkable child. "Brandon was very special to me and he was the first child in our ministry. I love him very much, just as if he was my own. We called him our little preacher boy. He loved the Lord so much," said Mrs. Bowman.

The quality for which I will remember Brandon most is his unselfishness, his concern for other people above himself, and his sensitivity to the needs of others, especially to his mother, Tammy Dillon, and his sisters, Tiffany and Sara, whom he loved so much. Brandon never asked for anything for himself without first asking many times for these things wanted or needed by his mother and sisters. He was one of the most protective children I have ever known. He was also very concerned about the well-being of the other 5 children served so far by Faith for the Miracle, asking Mrs. Bowman several weeks before his death to make sure that the other children served by this non-profit ministry are cared for. "Brandon asked me to make sure that I fought for the other kids and helped them," said Mrs. Bowman.

Thankfully, in the weeks and months before his death, with the support of Faith for the Miracle volunteers and many other caring citizens in the community, Brandon had the opportunity to enjoy many special moments, including catching his first fish (a large trout), becoming an honorary fireman, riding a 4-wheeler for the first time, taking a flight in the Air Care helicopter, enjoying appearances by Disney characters at a party given in his honor, going to Chuckie Cheese, singing his rendition of Alan Jackson's song "Small Town Southern Man" on my radio show, visiting the Richard Childress Racing shop, going swimming, and, most special of all, recently visiting his father whom he had not seen in 5 years. In one of his last outings, Brandon asked his mother about 2 weeks ago to bring him to see me at the radio station. On that memorable day, I introduced Brandon to the WHEO staff, gave him a tour of the radio station, and interviewed him for my show. Everyone on the staff took to him immediately, and Brandon became a part of our radio family.

Brandon's survivors include his mother Tammy Dillon; his father, Jeffery Richards; his stepfather, Benny Carter, his sisters, Tiffany Alice and Sara Ann Dillon; 2 brothers, Chris and Willie Lamb; and his grandparents, Virginia and Roger Dillon and Betty Deal.

On behalf of the family, special thanks are extended to the staff of Hospice of Patrick County for their loving care and compassion. The local Hospice of Patrick County team worked so hard to make sure that Brandon was as comfortable, happy, pain-free, and as well cared for as humanly possible in the last weeks of his life.

Brandon touched many hearts during his brief earthly life, especially mine! During the past several months, I have been blessed with opportunities to celebrate his life, to have him on my radio show, to attend his party, to see his joy and enjoy his company at the American Cancer Society Relay for Life event, and to sit by his bedside and hold his hand as he prepared to join the angels of Heaven. Last Sunday evening, I was sitting there by his bed against a wall completely covered with cards and tokens of love from his many friends and well wishers, and he asked me for a hug. After our friendly embrace, Brandon looked at me and whispered "I love you, Richard." Believe me, the feeling was mutural and that sentiment was shared by countless people in our community and beyond.

Remarkably mature beyond his 7 years, Brandon graced this world for only a short while, but he certainly left an indelible mark upon my heart and the many others who knew and loved him!

No more suffering, no more pain, Brandon has conquered cancer! Jesus welcomed him home today! So long, my friend, Brandon...until we meet again on Heaven's playground!

I love you, Brandon!

Your friend,
Richard

A 6-Year-Old Radio Sensation!

Hi :O)! Despite the oppressive heat, I attended various events in the community this past weekend, including yard sales, bake sales, car washes, breakfasts, lunches, and even a late afternoon picnic. Everywhere I go in the community (events, restaurants, grocery stores, on the street, you name it) people tell me how much they enjoy the newest segment of my WHEO morning radio show, Madison's Moments. Heard at about 7:15 weekday mornings Madison's Moments features Madison Stowe, a 6-year-old Trinity Christian School honor student who is enjoying her summer vacation (and eating lots of her favorite foods like strawberries, watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh cherries).

In her little more than one month on the radio, Madison has become a 6-year-old radio sensation! Not a day goes by without someone, usually several people, telling me that Madison's morning radio program puts them in a wonderful frame of mind as they prepare to meet the challenges of the day ahead. Listeners also tell me frequently that Madison is a real blessing and an inspiration to them. I couldn't agree more! Madison is truly a blessing to our county and a real asset to my show and our community-minded radio station. She has a very special child's radio ministry indeed! I am proud to play a small part in it!

Madison is one of the sweetest children you will ever meet! As pretty as a little doll, she is well behaved, very polite, courteous, respectful of others, mature beyond her years, and a delight to work and play with (each time she comes to the radio station to pre-record her programs, we take a little time for some fun and games too). Ask her if she would like to recite one of the many Bible verses that she has memorized at her school, and she will readily share with you her favorites passages from the Word of God, recalling each verse perfectly from memory! In her popular radio feature, Madison's Moments, Madison, whom I have affectionately nicknamed "my little radio buddy," recites a Bible verse and relates the scripture to everyday life, giving listeners a child's perspective on Christian living. It is a wonderful radio ministry and I am proud to have Madison as part of my radio show, which, as most of you know, is a very important part of my life (It certainly consumes a great deal of my time!).

I would like to thank Madison for enhancing my radio program, The Great Day in the Morning Show, and helping my listeners get the day off to a positive start. I hope that she will continue to do her program for many years to come. It will be interesting to listen to her progress and to get her perspective on life as she grows older. I would also like to personally thank Madison's mother, Shannon Stowe, for bringing Madison to the radio station for our weekly recording sessions and for working with Madison so patiently and helping her to select the material that goes into her show (often while multi-tasking, tending to Madison's 2-year-old sister Kaitlyn at the same time). Madison's father is Jeryl Stowe of Stuart. She is the granddaughter of Jimmy and Othelia Stowe of Stuart and Diana Overby of Lawsonville, NC, and the late Ronnie Overby (who, I am sure, is listening in and watching over her from Heaven). God bless Madison and her family!

By the way, congratulations to Madison, a member of Brownie Troop 1215, who was recently honored for being the number one sales person in Girl Scout cookie sales this year. Madison sold a remarkable 1,257 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies, by far the most of any girl in the county. The next highest person sold 393 boxes. I must admit that I consumed a few boxes in support of Madison's efforts myself. Keep up the great work Madison...in school, as a Brownie, in everything you do, and on the radio as "my little radio buddy"!

Madison is part of what I consider to be the most inspirational 15 minutes in radio. Also during the 7:15 to 7:30 a.m. Monday through Friday quarter hour, Bev "Heartwarmer" Larson's program and Rev. Jim Chruchwell's Good Morning Devotions are also aired. I have also heard many praises (and commented about it many times) of these two much longer running segments of my show, Bev's Heartwarmer feature and Rev. Jim's touching commentary on the Word of God. I am so blessed, honored, and proud to have Madison, Bev, and Rev. Jim for my "Quarter Hour of Inspiration" each weekday morning. Check it out, Monday through Friday from 7:15 to 7:30, and be blessed!

Until next time, I leave you with my love :O) and a prayer that God will bless you with a "great day"!

Richard

"Faith for the Miracle" Child Passes Away

Thomas Smith's journey here on Earth lasted a little less than a year, but the Patrick County infant touched countless hearts along his short path of life, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of many people who knew and loved him. Born with a rare disease that he fought courageously throughout his abbreviated life, Thomas died Friday at Brenner's Children's Hospital in Winston-Salem, just one day shy of his first birthday.

Infant Thomas Smith was the son of Anthony Smith and Dawn Barnard of Meadows of Dan. His grandparents are Leslie and Laura Barnard and Gloria Smith and King David Smith. Baby Thomas would have been one year old Saturday, May 31st.

Thomas was born with Hirschsprungs Disease, a rare disorder of the digestive system. During his short life, he underwent multiple surgeries and was to have a small bowel transplant in Cincinnati, OH, when he was a little older. God, however, had an immediate need for Thomas in Heaven and called him home the day before he would have been one year old.

Thomas was one of the first three children served by the humanitarian organization "Faith for the Miracle," a non-profit Christian ministry that provides support to children in our community with cancer or rare diseases. Tammy Bowman, founder of the organization, recalled on the anniversary his birth, "he was always 'baby Thomas', the youngest child in our ministry."

Noting that she never saw Thomas "fuss or cry", Mrs. Bowman said, "he was so full of joy." "When he smiled you immediately fell in love with him." Mrs. Bowman added, "he was such a little flirt. He would lay his head sideways and smile at you with that shy little look. He just got you. He sucked you right in," added Mrs. Bowman. When she thinks of Thomas and the other children served by her ministry, Mrs. Bowman said she thinks of "butterflies." Like butterflies, "they're beautiful, radiant, and colorful. They're free" and can't be bound to earth, she concluded. The beautiful baby butterfly that was Thomas Smith is now soaring in the Heavenly realm.

The funeral of infant Thomas Smith will be conducted Tuesday, June 3rd, at 12 noon at Cox-Needham Funeral Home in Pilot Mountain, NC. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday night from 7:00 to 9:00. Please ask God to comfort and strengthen Thomas' loving family.

You prayers are also requested for the child who inspired Tammy and her husband Brad Bowman to found "Faith for the Miracle," Brandon Dillon, the 7-year-old boy who has served as a great example of courage and determination during his valiant fight against leukemia. Brandon, who was the first child served by "Faith for the Miracle", is now under the care of Hospice of Patrick County as he fights for his life. His disease has spread to the point that the doctors determined that a planned bone marrow transplant is no longer an option in prolonging his life.

Brandon is in much pain as his caregivers try to keep him as comfortable as possible while helping him to do live out some of his lifelong dreams. On Saturday, Brandon was driven to Mecklenberg, VA, to see someone special that he had asked to meet. Recently, Brandon toured the skies over Mt. Airy, NC, in the Air Care helicopter and had a wonderful day as the special guest of members of Surry County area firefighting units. Brandon was delighted to catch a huge fish during a recent fishing trip. Much to my honor, Thomas sang Alan Jackson's "Small Town Southern Man" (accompanied by Sue Nester on guitar) during an unexpected but much welcomed visit to WHEO's "Community Conversation" recently. I will always remember that he sat in my lap in front of the control room microphone that wonderful day.

For more information on "Faith for the Miracle" or to become a volunteer of this child's Christian ministry, call Tammy Bowman at 276-694-3886.

Obviously, these children (and a third "Faith for the Miracle" child Samantha Mota) have deeply touched my heart. I have been blessed to know and love them. Please pray for Brandon and Samantha and their families. In their time of bereavement, please be expecially prayerful for the family of infant Thomas Smith, God rest his precious little soul.

Keep the faith for God's miracles.

Hope and Love :O),
Richard

Memorial Day, A Time to Remember

It is time to honor the memory of the millions of brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and protect the freedoms that we enjoy and sometimes take for granted. Those liberties that are the hallmark of our great country were won more than two-and-a-quarter centuries ago and have since been defended against many foes because courageous men and women were willing to give their lives for the country that they loved. "Freedom is not free," my friend and Patrick Country veteran Bob Knight has often said. It is indeed obtained at great cost.

This Memorial Day, let's reverently commemorate those American men and women who have perished in military service to our country. Let's also be grateful to live in a country built on Godly ideals that are worth dying for. Although many times I am frustrated by the leadership of this country and the partisan politics that sometimes, it seems to me, hinders politicians from acting in the best interest of all Americans, I am proud of the United States of America and thankful to be an American citizen.

It is important that we all honor our fallen heroes and pledge, in whatever ways possible, to serve our country and make this land that they were willing to die for a better place to live! That way their sacrifices will never have been in vain. We are losing our military veterans at a rapid rate. An average of 1,800 veterans die each day, and 10% are buried in the country's 125 national cemeteries, which are expected to set a record with 107,000 interments, including dependents, this year. An estimated 686,000 veterans died in 2007, according to USA Today. While many World War II veterans are dying, so are an increasing number of Korean and Vietnam veterans.

Whether you attend a Memorial Day service or just pause in silent tribute to our nation's deceased soldiers, always remember their sacrifices and seek to honor their memory in every way possible. As we reflect upon the true meaning of Memorial Day, it is also fitting to lift up those who are defending our country on world battlefields today. God bless our American soldiers and the U.S.A! May it always be a country that can truly say, "In God We Trust!"

Patriotically yours,
Richard

A Record Relay!

Exhausted volunteers concluded the most successful Relay for Life fund-raising campaign in Patrick County's history late Saturday night with renewed "HOPE" for a cancer-free tomorrow, having raised approximately $75,000 to fight the devastating disease. That total topped last year's record of $62,000 and exceeded this year's $52,000 goal by about $23,000. (Relay team volunteers will add to the $75,000 total Saturday night, May 24th when they provide the concessions for the Patrick County Music Association Jamboree at Rotary Field in Stuart.)

"It was a phenomenal event," said LaVergne Collins, co-chairperson of the Patrick County Relay for Life Committee. She and fellow co-chair Betty Conner, local Relay Committee Treasurer June Gunter, and other volunteers stayed at the Patrick County Community Center at DeHart Park well past midnight into the wee hours Sunday morning counting money raised during the event and the radio-thon, and throughout the 4-month campaign.

Robin Minter, American Cancer Society Relay for Life Community Manager for Patrick County, said 36 teams comprised of about 500 members worked together beautifully in raising a record amount of funds for this cause locally. The money will help to fund the continuing efforts of Nobel Prize-winning researchers to find a cure for cancer and to provide provide programs and services to cancer patients and their caregivers in our community.

Minter was also elated over the large turnout of citizens for Saturday's Relay for Life family outing. The largest crowd ever to attend the event brought DeHart Park to a bustling frenzy of activity that included games and activities for the children, contests to promote cancer awareness and prevention, live entertainment, delicious food, and the close fellowship for which Patrick County has long been noted. Highlights included the opening Survivor's Walk honoring hundreds of cancer survivors in our community, the Womanless Beauty Pageant (won by Bobby Alley who portrayed the lusty "Bubblicious"), the Race for a Cure event featuring race cars constructed from cardboard and serviced by pit crews in an event to promote American Cancer Society's patient transportation services, the live music by local entertainers, and the touching luminary ceremony that focused on the word "HOPE" that was spelled out in lights on the hill overlooking DeHart Park with luminaria purchased by citizens in honor and memory of loved ones.

I commend the many survivors and caregivers who were honored during the event. I would also like to personally thank cancer survivor Mr. Don Sall, who was my special guest at the Relay event. It was an honor for me to bring Mr. Sall to DeHart Park from the Blue Ridge Nursing Center where he is undergoing rehabilitation following the removal of a hip and leg because of bone cancer, allowing him to participate in the survivor's walk from his wheelchair. Thanks too to Clyde Crissman, William Hines, and others who assisted me in taking care of Mr. Sall during his stay at the event and transporting him back to the nursing center.

The $75,000 countywide Relay for Life total includes the sum of more than $13,200 pledged and donated during WHEO's second annual "12 Hours for a Cure II" radio-thon broadcast Friday, May 16th from sunrise to sunset. More than half of the $13,200 plus has already been collected. I would like to urge that WHEO listeners who have not yet turned in the money contributed during Friday's broadcast to quickly honor your pledges so that all of the radio-thon money can be turned in to the American Cancer Society and and put to work in the fight against cancer immediately. The radio-thon total of $13,200 represents close to 10% of the $75,000 raised so far. Checks should be made payable to the American Cancer Society and mailed to WHEO, c/o Relay for Life, 3824 Wayside Rd., Stuart, VA 24171.

The "12 Hours for a Cure II" radio-thon was presented by the WHEO Relay for Life team, the Kilowatts for a Cure in Memory of Sandra Merritt Rogers. An avid Relay for Life supporter as principal of Woolwine Elementary School, my wife Sandra died of cancer in July 2006. Thanks to my co-workers and WHEO teammates for a phenomenal job in running a smooth radio-thon and open house. I know that Sandra was smiling upon our efforts from her Heavenly home.

I would like to personally thank every citizen, business, and community organization that supported our radio-thon through your donations to Relay for Life, prayers, volunteer assistance, donations of food for the radio-thon, and other assistance especially the hard work of Kevin and Paula Polachek who solicited donations and prepared the food served to our hungry guests. The "12 Hours for a Cure II" radio-thon and the WHEO open house accompanying the broadcast drew a massive radio audience and a large crowd of citizens to the radio station for a day of fun, food, fellowship, live entertainment, and the satisfaction of knowing that we were making a difference in the fight against cancer in our community.

Special thanks goes to the appoximately 50 talented local musicians who donated their time and talents to make the radio-thon successful, the many citizens who volunteered their services and assistance in conducting the radio-thon, and especially to the many people who donated the more than $13,200 that far exceeded our expectations given the poor economy, rising prices, and a forthcoming county tax increase. Although I greatly despise buttermilk, I agreed to drink a few sips on the air when we reached and ultimately exceeded our $12,500 goal Friday evening. The temporary bad taste that the buttermilk left in my mouth (along with the desperate frown upon my face) was more than relieved by knowing that it was all for a great cause and part of our community wide efforts to achieve VICTORY in the war on cancer!

The record-setting 2008 Relay for Life campaign in Patrick County was truly a community effort and a perfect example of the amazing feats that we can accomplish when we work together following God's direction. That is a hallmark of our community! You are amazing Patrick County! I sincerely thank each of my fellow Patrick Countians for your support or this worthwhile cause and ask God to bless you richly for your sacrifices!

You have my prayers and...

My love :O),
Richard