Happy New Year!

I feel blessed at the start of 2010 to have wonderful friends like you who are always there to offer encouragement, support, and hands to help bear my burdens. My resolution: to more closely submit myself to God allowing Him to guide me to becoming what He would have me to be in the coming year and to better serve others. My prayers are with each of you as we 'ring in the new'. Happy New Year! Auld lang syne!

Thanks for Your Encouragement

I'm thankful for the encouragement and support that I receive every day from friends and loved ones. The challenges and burdens of life can be overwhelming but we are blessed that God provides us strength and encouragement either directly or through those people who touch our lives and lift us up each day. Thank you all for your support and encouragement. You are a blessing, my radio listeners and friends! Happy, healthy New Year. God bless you all in 2010.

Back Home on the Airways

I have been blessed with a wonderful Christmas and a nice vacation at the same time. After 9 days off, I return to the airways this week. Listen for "The Great Day in the Morning Show" Monday through Friday from 6-10 a.m. on 1270 AM-WHEO. It has been great to get away for awhile but I am looking forward to coming home to my radio family. Thanks to all of you who've said you missed me being on the air during my Christmas vacation. See you on the radio! : ) Happy New Year to all my beloved radio friends. Be well and prosper!

Accentuate the Positive

Let's seek to warm hearts on this cold day! We'll start with a smile and a positive outlook and allow God to guide us that we might make a difference in our little corners of the world. As difficult as it may be, let's try to look for the good in everybody and every circumstance...and expect a blessing of our own as we seek to be a blessing to others. Be safe, be happy!

Remembering Victims "A Day that Will Live in Infamy"

Today, I am honoring the memory of the more than 2,400 courageous American service people who gave their lives for our freedoms 68 years ago at Pearl Harbor. Today marks the 68th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, proclaimed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as "a date that will live in infamy".

The attack on Pearl Harbor was an unannounced military strike by the Japanese navy against the United States' naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, which resulted in the U.S. becoming militarily involved in WWII. The attack sank 4 U.S. Navy battleships (2 of which were raised and returned to service later in the war) and damaged 4 more. The Japanese also sank or damaged 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers, and one minelayer, destroyed 188 aircraft, and caused personnel losses of 2,402 killed and 1,282 wounded.

We are indeed indebted to these soldiers who died on that fateful day in the line of duty and service to our country. I honor their memory and pray for our American service men and women who are poised today to give their lives too to defend the way of live that we hold dear. Today, 68 years later, continues to "live in infamy". The victims of the Pearl Harbor attack, however, did not die in vain and their sacrifices are remembered today and always. God bless America and its people.

A Christmas Tradition to Cherish

I think that the experience of cutting a live Christmas tree is one of the richest and most family-friendly of all Christmas traditions. In an outing that took me back to my childhood, I visited a Patrick Co. Christmas tree farm to do a radio feature for my morning radio show recently. At a time when many of our customs and traditions are fading away, it is refreshing that many families still cherish the fellowship and closeness to God and nature that accompany a holiday outing to search for the perfect Christmas tree. This is a wholesome annual ritual that has been passed down for generations in many families. Despite the growing popularity of artificial trees, ...there's nothing like getting that perfect tree the old fashioned way, cutting it fresh as a family! Here's wishing you all a Merry CHRISTmas and one that is rich in family tradition.

Keep CHRIST in Christmas!

I would like to publicly commend Grace Baptist Church for its efforts to keep "Christ" in Christmas! Hearing news reports that the White House will have a "holiday tree"" as opposed to the traditional Christmas tree, the church purchased 100 "Merry Christmas" badges and is selling them for #1 each with proceeds going to the church building fund, according to member and friend Betsy Wilds. I'm wearing one, proudly and wishing everyone a "Merry Christmas"!

In these times of political correctness when the government and society tries not to offend anyone, it often seems that our society tries to take God out of our culture altogether. That very much offends me! Even though I fail Him every day, it is in GOD that I trust and upon JESUS that I depend for my salvation!

Let's resist these persistent efforts to take God out of our schools, institutions, and society and stop this movement to take CHRIST out of Christmas. Christ is Christmas! The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, is the very essence of the Christmas season. This 'happy holidays' greeting is humbug. How can any holiday or any other day be happy without Christ in your life and without the joy that all Christians should feel in knowing that by trusting in Christ, by the grace of God, we have eternal life. That is something to be "merry" about in Christ. So I say very loudly and clearly....MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Honor Our Veterans

Today and every day let's seek to honor our veterans here in Patrick County and throughout the United State. They are to be commended for their efforts to secure and maintain the freedoms that we enjoy but all to often take for granted in this great nation. I salute the veterans of Patrick County who are living and honor the memory of those who have given their lives in service to our country. As we honor our veterans for thei sacrifices, let's pray for the U.S. troops who are stationed around the wold today to defend, with their lives, the freedoms and way of life that we as proud Americans hold dear.

An Inspiring Lady

Today, I'm trying to follow the example of an elderly Patrick Co. lady who inspired me during Friday's 21st annual Health Fair. With her positive attitude, I "just keep going", said 96-yer-old Etta McGhee when asked the key to her long healthy life. Let's all smile and think positively as we 'keep going' forward thanking God for the blessing of this day!

Ms. McGhee is a true community treasure. Alert and full of sweetness, she just "keeps on going" and inspiring others with her zest for live. Bless her heart. Bless you too!

Your morning radio friend,
Richard

A Busy Tourist Season

Tourism is one of Patrick County's greatest economic assets. That has been most evident during eh month of October when the tourist season annually reaches its peak. It was inspiring to visit Meadows of Dan and the Blue Ridge Parkway this past weekend and to see the many visitors who crowded shops, restaurants, stores, and roadside produce stands. The mountain foliage was a little past its peak but tourists and local folks came to the mountains in droves to savor the flavor of fall in picturesque Patrick County.

Some of the stores and shops in Meadows of Dan business district on Sunday (Oct. 25) were so crowded with people that you could hardly walk. There was a throng of folks enjoying the scenery, entertainment, and restaurant at Mabry Mill. Rocky Knob was crowded with picnickers and hikers. The Lover's Leap overlook was jammed with visitors taking pictures and enjoying the breathtaking view of th valley below the mountain. At the Meadows of Dan Community Center, more than 5,000 patrons were served during the two Sundays of the annual Pancake Days co-sponsored by the Meadows of Dan Ruritan Club and the Meadows of Dan Fire Department. Visitors from as far away as Canada and the Ukraine came to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Patrick County this fall to feast on buckwheat and buttermilk pancakes and to enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and rustic scenery.

This past Sunday was but one example of the heavy tourist activity in Patrick County during the autumn season especially during its peak in October. Tom Bishop, Executive Director of the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, said visitors have flocked to Patrick County the last 3 weekends. "You talking about a crowd," said Bishop of the tourist activity this past weekend. I commend Tom Bishop for his tireless efforts to promote tourism and the business community in Patrick County.

Tourism is more important today in Patrick County than ever. It has helped to ease the heavy blow suffered by the county as far back as a decade ago when local manufacturing plants began cutting back or closing and textile and furniture jobs were shipped overseas. Tourism is vital to Patrick County! It is certainly the lifeblood of the mountaintop economy and a rapidly growing economic sector countywide. The most recent figures indicate that tourism brings in more than $21-million annually to Patrick County's economy. It means not only increased revenues for county merchants but jobs for a significant number of people in a county that is no stranger to double digit unemployment. Because of its great economic clout, I think we should do everything in our power to nurture and promote the tourist industry in Patrick County even if it involves investing some of our hard-earned county tax dollars. This investment will pay tremendous long-term dividends.

Thank you to the many tourists and visitors who have graced out county's scenic attractions with their presence this fall. We welcome you to come back often and experience the good life that we enjoy everyday living here in this beloved county that we affectionally call God's Country.

Update on David

An encouraging development in the 2-year long battle of former Patrick County Sheriff David Hubbard to regain his health. Following nearly 6 hours of surgery Tuesday, Oct. 13th, David was able to call me at the radio station this morning (Wed., Oct. 14th) from his regular hospital bed at the University of Virginia Medical Center at Charlottesville. It was a pleasant suprise indeed to hear from this gallant man whose will to live has served as an inspiration to many of us.

In an impromptu interview, Hubbard said he is sore but optimistic about his prospects for recovery from lingering health issues that forced his to retire as sheriff about two years ago. He credited the prayers and support of his family and friends for his life today. David also told me that he has learned that wealth is properly measured by one's relationships in life and not by how much money he has acquired. Hear David's touching story on my news reports on WHEO Thursday, Oct. 15th, and stay tuned to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" for updates on the progress of the former sheriff who serves as President of the Patrick County Farm Bureau and, even in ill health, has worked on his Meadows of Dan farm when able.

Speaking of wealth....our community is much wealthier because of David Hubbard's leadership in law enforcement and agriculture and his example of courage and determination in the face of personal adversity. Please continue to pray for David and his family! Blessings to all!

Richard

Prayer Request for David Hubbard

I'd like to ask everyone in our community to pray for former Patrick County Sheriff David Hubbard. David has been battling health issues that forced him to abandon his bid for re-election and to retire as sheriff about two years ago. Since then, he has courageously battled health problems that probably would have claimed the life of a weaker man. A great example of strength, courage and determination, David has fought back from each setback that he has faced. Today (Monday, Oct. 12th), the former sheriff and president of the Patrick County Farm Bureau is facing another medical challenge.

According to a telephone report from my one of my radio show listeners, David was scheduled to undergo "serious surgery" today (10/12/09) at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville. Another caller told me that he faced a 10-hour surgical procedure. Both callers requested prayer for David. So please immediately remember David Hubbard in your prayers as well as his wife Gayna and other members of his family who have faithfully stood by him during his repeated visits to the hospital and his often frustrated battle to regain his health. God bless you David!

"The Great Day in the Morning Show" prayer list is a great way to surround your friends, neighbors, and loved ones with a "wall of prayer". Simply call (276) 694-3388 each morning between 6 and 10 a.m. and make your prayer request.

There is much sickness and disease in our community as well as current concern about the H1N1 (swine flue) virus and vaccine...many are without jobs and suffering economic hardships....and there are needs all around us. Let's all recognize those needs for prayer and raise our hands to Heaven on behalf of the many people in our community need our prayers as well as our comfort, support, kindness, and understanding.

May God bless you all with a "great day"!

Richard

A Bullish Opening of Patrick County Fair

I've heard of grand entrances...but this takes the cake! After cutting the ribbon to officially open the 57th annual Patrick County Agricultural Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 22nd, at Rotary Fairgrounds in Stuart, Janice Wilkins, President of the sponsoring Stuart Rotary Club, climbed atop a longhorn bull named Hollywood and rode the stately steer through the gate and entered the fairgrounds in grand styles. What a start to what promises to be the best Patrick County Agricultural Fair in the storied history of this event which has become a beloved family tradition. And that's NO BULL!

Listen to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" each day this week (6-10 a.m.) for the latest information on the fair. Then bring the family and join your friends for what "Mr. Patrick County Agricultural Fair" Henry Ayers calls "Old Home Week" in Patrick County. Perhaps, the most wonderful thing about the fair is the opportunity it affords for reunions of families and friends, many of whom may see each other only during this annual event. Exemplary of the gatherings that are a tradition of the fair was a reunion of the Ayers family on the opening night. Henry and Brenda's son and his family came home to attend the fair as they do every year. That same scenario is played out night after night, year after year...every year at the Patrick County Agricultural Fair.

Among the dignitaries on hand for opening night were former Virginia Governor and native Patrick Countian Gerald Baliles who reminisced the fair's enormous impact upon the culture of Patrick County. Also on hand were members of the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, the Stuart Town Council, Del. Ward Armstrong and his opponent in the November election Ed Creed, and State Sen. Roscoe Reynolds.

Hope to see you at this week's Patrick County Agricultural Fair. The thrills, the chill, the exhibits, the the food, the entertainment, the rides, the ferris wheel, the reunions, the gatherings of old frinds, the smiles, the tradition. It's a classic! It's the 57th annual Patrick County Agricultural Fair, proudly sponsored by the Stuart Rotary Club. See you there!

A Tinier "Tumbleweed"

To live a healthy lifestyle takes real courage and committment. A stunning example of that determination is the lifestyle change that has been made during the last six months by my friend Tim Collins. Tim is widely known throughtout this area and in the local music community as the former host of the WHEO "Saturday Morning Back Porch Bluegrass Show." His radio nickname was "Tumbleweed." Tim, an avid bluegrass music fan, is a loving husband, father of 5 children, and a concerned citizen who is involved in his community. He is highly involved as a leader in the Boy Scouts and is heads the citizens' organization known as "Friends of Fairystone," a support group for Fairystone State Park.

Physically, Tim, whom I love and respect as a friend and former colleague, has been obese ever since I've know him. In fact, Tim was once so huge that he could hardly queeze into the small WHEO control room. During a recent homecoming interview on my morning talk show "Community Conversation", Tim told me that the weighing devices at his doctor's office lacked the capacity to determine his actual body weight as he always maxed out the scales. In order to get an accurate measurement of his weight, Tim asked and was granted permission to be weighed on the highly-accurate industrial scales at a local recycling business. Whooooa! Tim weighted a whopping 451 pounds!

With a strong desire to improve his own well-being and to be healthier and more active husband and father, Tim decided to do something about his obesity. He determined in February of this year to make a complete lifestyle change. Tim was introduced to the Isometrics Diet and became involved in a competitive weight loss program offered by this "billion dollar" company. In the 6-month period of the competition, Tim lost 115 pounds, earning him and his wife Janie a trip to California where he competed in the finals of the competition. Although he began the competition a month later than other competitors, Tim narrowly missed winning the competition, placing second and earning a substantial cash consolation prize. Since he began his lifestyle change last winter, Tim has lost 150 pounds. On the morning of our Tue., Aug. 25th interview, "Tumbleweed" Tim dropped below 300 pounds for the first time. "I was so excited" at reaching that milestone, Tim said in our radio interview. Tim said he is still considered obsese but he is proud of how far he has come in such a short time and plans to persevere.

In shedding all those pounds, Tim has supplemented his rigid diet with increased physical activity. He rouinely walks 3-4 miles over some rough terrain along the trails at his beloved Fairystone Park. Tim told me that he has targeted joining the 200 pound weight loss club by the end of this year. Seeing the determination in his eyes and the newfound vigor on his face during our interview, I am certain that the Tumbleweed will soon accomplish his personal goal.

As one who has come to appreciate the benefits of fitness and proper diet in recent years and one who works out regularly, I am amazed at what my friend Tim has been able to accomplish. Obesity is a national epidemic spread across the age spectrum. I highly commend Tim Collins for setting a great example for others who are battling the growing problem and facing the health risks associated with obesity. Tim case is a case study of we can do if we believe in our cause and pursue our mission with our full vigor and determination. I'm proud of you Tim! Maintain your passion and stay the course, buddy, and, in the words of an old western classic, "keep drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds."

Lots of love all,
Richard

The Power of Prayer

Not a day goes by that my heart isn't touched in some warm way by the things the people who listen to my radio show and that I meet in the community say to me or do. Recently, I wished one of my most faithful listeners and Facebook friends, Lisa Anne Williams Goins, a happy birthday (Aug. 12th) and also learned that it was the anniversary of the birth of her dear late mother, Patricia Williams. I also sent Lisa a happy birthday wish on Facebook that day. Her reply to my message so touched my heart that I wanted to share it with the readers of this blog. Lisa's Facebook message to me is a prime example of why it is important that we pray for each other. Prayer is powerful. Here is Lisa's story.

Lisa recalled that when she and her sister Kim Young were little their mother would wake them up on their birthdays singing "Happy Birthday to You". When the girls grew up and left home, their mother would always call first thing on the morning of each of their birthdays and sing to them the happy birthday song. "I sure miss that," Lisa told me in her reply message.

Lisa said that in her prayers on the night before her birthday she told God how much she missed her mother's singing on her birthday and how that, knowing it was impossible, it would make her day to hear that familiar birthday song again. Lisa added, "I thanked Him for my blessings and went to sleep."

The following morning (her birthday), Lisa said that after she had put the kids on the school bus to start the new school year, her telephone rang and a lady on the other end of the line asked if it was Lisa that had answered. Lisa replied in the affirmative aand said that the caller immediately started singing "Happy Birthday" to her. "I cried and thanked the lady on the other end and told her how she made my day and she told me she loved me and my family. I didn't even ask her name," said Lisa. Then, as she hung up the phone, Lisa noticed on her caller ID that the call had been placed by one of the ladies of her church, Stuart Presbyterian. "She didn't know how that made me laugh, smile, and cry, but they were happy tears, for she was a part of answering my prayer from God," Lisa told me. Lisa recalled that the same lady had also said a prayer for her three years ago when she was diagnosed with melanoma. At her next doctor's visit, Lisa learned that the melanoma had been completely and successfully removed and that she would be fine.

"I believe in prayer and them being answered when it is the right time and I truly believe in angels," said Lisa, adding, "I have a personal one here in Patrick County and her name is Winky!"

Lisa told me in a later Facebook message that after her mother's death, she didn't want to celebrate her birthday anymore without her. Now she looks at it differently. "Now I have a new faith that it would be alright to enjoy the day again. I know she (her mother) is still with me and my sisters and brothers just like she promised," Lisa concluded.

Thanks to Lisa for listening and for sharing that very touching example of how our prayers for each other can make all the difference in the world. Let's all lift each other up in prayer, including our loved ones, friends, neighbors, leaders, and, especially, those around us who are less fortunate than we are. Prayer is powerful.

Each day on "The Great Day in the Morning Show" (M-F 6-10 a.m.) I honor prayer requests and also share words of praise that my listeners report to me. If you would like to add a name to the morning show prayer list or share with my audience your words of praise for God's blessings in your life, call me at (276) 694-3388, email me at rtrogers@embarqmail.com, fax your prayer or praise requests to (276) 694-2241, write me at WHEO, 3824 Wayside Rd., Stuart, VA 24171, send me a message on Facebook, of just tell me in person. I often scribble down prayer requests on paper napkins, the palm of my hand, or anything I have handy to write on. Let's surround those in need in our community with a wall of prayer. As Lisa Anne Williams Goins well knows... there is power in prayer!

Keep me in yours,
Richard

The Bears of Lover's Leap

Tourists visiting the scenic Lover's Leap Overlook in Patrick County will not only see one of the most spectacular views anywhere but they may see a bear or two as well. Many bear sightings have been reported at nearby Fred Clifton Park where the hungry bruins have ravaged trash cans in search of food and scraps left by picnickers. The bears have become such a problem that the Patrick County Recreation Department is sending workers to the park two to three times per week to clean up the litter and debris left by the bears and to repair damage to park facilities. Just up U.S. 58 at Henrietta Crafters, aka Lover's Leap Birdhouses, at least 7 different bears have been sighted and photographed. The bears of Lover's Leap have become such a spectacle that videos of them have been posted on YouTube, where you can watch them reacting to a sprinkler system, eating peaches from a tree (this bear has appropriately been nicknamed "Peaches"), raid bird feeders, and stand on their hind legs. You weblink is www.youtube.com/user/loversleapbirdhouses.

"There are a bunch of bears", said Patrick County Recreation Director Clyde Crissman in a recent telephone interview on my morning talk show "Community Conversation" on WHEO Radio. Crissman estimated that some of them weigh over 500 pounds. "Someone is going to get hurt if they don't do something about" these bears, Crissman added.

Several other WHEO talk show callers have warned citizens to beware of the bears, especially at Fred Clifton Park, located adjacent to Lover's Leap in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Patrick County. One citizen told me recently that a family picnic was recently prematurely ended when a tourist advised the husband, wife, and their children that there was a black bear behind a tree just feet from the picnic table where they had just spread their meal. The family hastily departed but not before taking a photo of the intruder.

In an effort to thwart efforts by the bears to raid the trash cans at the park, Patrick County officials are trying to develop a bear-proof garbage can but concede that it may be a futile effort. Dr. Lock Boyce, a Patrick County veterinarian and county supervisor, recently suggested on his weekly radio show that relocation of the bears may be the only long-term solution to the problem.

Not only are the pesky bears wreaking havoc at the Fred Clifton Park, a public park facility, but they are also causing damage to crops and gardens of private residences in the mountaintop area. One irate resident of Vesta called my radio show Monday, Aug. 10th, to report that bears have ravaged the family corn crop causing extensive damage to the family's garden. This caller also asked Dr. Boyce, my regular Monday morning guest, if compensation is available from the county for damage caused by bears. No such financial relief is available in for losses caused by bears, the disappointed caller was informed.

One benefit of the increased bear sightings may be hightened tourist activity in the county. Some local officials and residents speculate that the more talk and media hoopla made about the bears the greater the chances that more curious visitors will be drawn to the county to see what was once a relatively rare sight...a bear in the wild.

And those are the bear...I mean...bare facts.

Blessings...
Richard Rogers

Long Distance Anniversary Wish

Something happened on my radio show on Wednesday morning, July 29th that really touched my heart and made me feel warm inside and good about what I do for a living. I was honored to assist an American soldier deployed in the Mideast to connect with his wife in Patrick County via my WHEO radio morning program, "The Great Day in the Morning Show." U.S. Navy Master at Arms J.C. White telephoned my morning radio talk show shortly before 7 a.m. from overseas to wish his beloved wife Melissa of Stuart a happy 20th wedding anniversary today. Truly heartwarming! It is special incidents like that which occasionally occur on my show that make getting up at 4:00 each weekday morning worth the effort.

In our on-air telephone coversation, J.C. recalled that blessed day 20 years ago (July 29, 1989)when he married Melissa and indicated that it was one of the most wonderful moments of his life. Several other callers to my show told me what fine people the White's are. J.C. and Melissa White are the parents of 2 children who attend Patrick County Public Schools and they attend Harvest Worship Center. J.C. told me that he completed a tour of duty in wartorn Iraq just two days ago and that he was still deployed in the Mideast near Saudi Arabia. Melissa is a former dispatcher with the Patrick County Sheriff's Department, according to Brenda Simms one of the callers who expressed admiration for the couple.

J.C. told me in our radio chat, that he longs for the relatively cool weather of Patrick County. He noted that U.S. soldiers regularly have to endure 140-degree heat in the deserts of the Mideast. Asked how they cope with such infernal conditions, he replied the troops drink plenty of water and constantly keep on the move. I pray that J.C. will soon be delivered from such conditions and will be reunited with his wife and family in the cool breezes of the Blue Ridge Mountains in their beloved home of Patrick County.

J.C. promised me that he would come on my radio show as a guest when he returns home from his latest tour of duty. That is a day that I pray for and eagerly anticipate. Please join me in prayer that that hope will soon become a reality.

Being a part of the U.S. military, J.C. White can appreciate dedication and punctuality. Ms. Simms, who works for the company that provides tax services to the White family, quoted J.C. as saying, "If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. If you are late, it is unacceptable." I feel much safer just knowing that a young man of the caliber of J.C. White and other U.S. soldiers like him are constantly vigilant and ready to give their all, even their lives, to ably defend the country that they are proud to serve and protect the freedoms that we all enjoy.

I pray that J.C. White will soon be out of the constant dangers that come with military deployment in a world trouble-spot and that this courageous American soldier will be back at home with Melissa and their children Kaitlyn and Cullen and their families, safe and secure in the freedoms that he and other U.S. soldiers are fighting to maintain and secure. Please pray for J.C. and all United States soldiers defending our great land and our way of life around the world. I also ask you to add J.C. and other U.S. troops and military personnel to your personal prayer lists and those at your various churches.

It was most gratifying to me as a radio host to be able to assist this brave American soldier in getting his message of love to his wife and family from across the miles on this very special occasion. Sure, this loving couple and many others in similar situations are temporarily separated by vast physical distance but their yearning hearts are eternally connected. Happy 20th anniversary to J.C. and Melissa White. God bless you! God bless America!

Richard

On the Road Again....

It is good to be home after another long road trip with one of my favorite gospel music groups, the Southern Prophets. I was honored to accompany the 4-man group and members of their families to the Tennessee hometown of the band's senior member and leader, Denny Archer, during the weekend (July 17-19). Making the trip to Lafollette, Tennessee, were Denny and Marilyn Archer, Bobby and Judy Gardner, Mike Hall, Dwayne and Christy George and their sons Landon and Dillon, and me and fellow Southern Prophets "groupies" Lee and Susan Hazelwood.

We all had a wonderful time traveling together and enjoying fellowship with members of the two churches where the Southern Prophets sang Saturday night and Sunday. One of the churches was founded by Denny's brother. We were also treated to some wonderful home cooking by Denny's relatives and, of course, Marilyn kept us well fed with snacks on the way to and from our destination. I'd like to thank the group for inviting me to make the trip. I seized the opportunity to interview all four of the Southern Prophets as well as the accompanying wives and family members. Like I did two years ago when I went with the band of Ohio, I plan to edit the interviews and and use them to compile a multi-part series on this outstanding gospel group. It will require many hours of work to put together but hopefully it will be worth the wait. I consider the last series that I did on the Southern Prophets based on the Ohio trip to be one of the best of the feature reports that I've done during my broadcast career.

It was great to getaway from the everyday routine for awhile. We traveled through some beautiful country in neighboring Tennessee but we were all happy when we hit the Patrick County line on our return home Sunday evening. The Tennessee lakes (TVA project) and mountains are spectacular (the view from Clinch Mountain is breathtaking) and the people that we met were wonderful but I don't think any place on earth can compare with the beauty of Patrick County or the warmth of its people. That's why we call this wonderful county in which we live "God's Country"!

God bless the Southern Prophets and their music ministry.

Richard

God Bless Our Country

As we get back to our routines following the celebration of America's Independence Day or 233rd birthday, let's all be thankful, not just on the Fourth of July but each day, to live in this great nation. Our country is far from perfect and our elected leaders often seem to be serving themselves and powerful special interest groups rather than the people who elected them. However, the United States of America is still the most prosperous and powerful country on earth and a blessing to those of us who are proud to live here.

Today, more than ever, America faces many daunting challenges that threaten our standard of living and our way of life. That is why it is important for Americans to be very vigilant and make every effort to stay abreast of what is happening in our country and the world in which we live. Brought closer than ever together by technology, today's global society and economy increasingly impact our country and its citizens. We all need to inform ourselves of the issues that directly affect our lives and get involved in the process of choosing leaders who will work for what is good for the country as a whole and not just furthering their own political careers.

Over the years since we declared our independence on July 4, 1776, it seems that we have gotten away from the vision of our founding fathers of being a nation that turns to God for guidance in its dealings at home and abroad. We as Americans need to pray daily for our country and the leaders to whom we have entrusted the reins of our government. We need to be especially grateful for our soldiers who are out their in the trouble spots of the world each day defending and paying the ongoing price for these freedoms that we have fought so hard to secure. Let's ask God to bless and guide us as we strive to guide our great but wayward country back to its roots as "one nation under God". As proud Americans, let's reaffirm that truly "in God we trust." God bless America.

Richard

Remembering Jesse

Contributions to the newly-established Jesse Wood Sheppard Scholarship Fund continue to come in at a steady pace. The fund was established recently to honor the memory of 2009 Patrick County High School graduate Jesse Sheppard and to assist deserving students who exemplify Jesse's many admirable qualities. Jesse, 18, was tragically killed in a June 13th traffic accident as he and two teenaged friends headed home from the beach a week after Jesse's graduation.

WHEO Radio...working in cooperation with Brian Jessup CPA of Stuart...led efforts to establish the scholarship in loving memory of Jesse Sheppard and to assist deserving young people seeking to further their education in the field of music, which was the love of Jesse's life. Jesse was a talented musician who was a member of the Pride of Patrick County, the Patrick County High School Marching Cougars Band, and the PCHS Praise and Worship Team during his high school years and was a member of the bluegrass music group known as The Downtown Boys.

Brian Jessup says an account in Jesse's name will be opened at BB&T Bank, a federal identification number will be sought, and a board of directors will be formed to oversee and administer the scholarship fund. Members of the board of directors of the Jesse Wood Sheppard Scholarship Fund will be Eric Sheppard, Jesse's father; Wendy Wood Sheppard, Jesse's mother; Benny Wood, Jesse's maternal grandfather; Tom Beasley and Dean Goad of Patrick County Communications (WHEO); Lynn Stegall, Patrick County High School Band Director; and Brian Jessup CPA.

Hundreds of dollars have been contributed to the scholarship fund in the first few days of its existence. If you'd like to make a contribution, please mail your tax deductible donations to: WHEO Radio, 3824 Wayside Rd., Stuart, VA 24171 or to Brian Jessup CPA, P.O. Box 1140, Stuart, VA 24171. Checks should be made payable to the Jesse Wood Sheppard Scholarship Fund.

Plans are also in the works to use various recordings of the Downtown Boys made during their apparances at the Historic Star Theater in Stuart, especially those featuring vocals by Jesse, to make a CD of music that will be sold to the public. Proceeds from the CD sales will be applied to the Jesse Wood Sheppard Scholarship Fund.

Thank you very much for your support of this worthwhile project as our community seeks to honor the memory of Jesse Wood Sheppard, a fine young man who touched us so tenderly through his faith in Jesus Christ, his music, his warm radiant personality, his care for others, and his passion for life. Please continue to pray for the strenght and comfort of Jesse's family in their time of bereavement.

God bless you,
Richard

A Short Life, Well-Lived

People throughout Patrick County and far beyond are deeply saddened by the tragic death of a remarkable young gentleman who lost his life prematurely Saturday night in a tragic auto accident that injured two fellow Patrick County High School graduates as the three drove home from from a post-graduation trip to the beach. 18-year-old Jesse Sheppard is being remembered as a radiant, joyful youth who loved his family, his music, fishing, and above all the Lord.

In an interview in the living room of his home Sunday evening, Jesse's grieving father, Eric Sheppard, a long-time friend of my family and a member of my church family, shared with me some of his beloved son's most remarkable accomplishments. "Jesse loved his music," said Eric Sheppard. In fact Jesse aspired to be a music instructor. Having just graduated from PCHS a week before the awful mishap that took his life, Jesse planned to attend Patrick Henry Community College and then to transfer to East Tennessee State University to purse his dream of becoming a band instructor. Jesse was a member of the PCHS Marching Cougars Band, the Pride of Patrick County, during his high school career. He was also a member of the relatively new bluegrass music group, the Downtown Boys, for which he played bass.

Jesse was a multi-faceted and talented youth whose interests extended far beyond music. He as active in drama in high school and in the community. For most of his school years, Jesse was involved in the 4-H program and had planned to attend 4-H camp this summer as a teen leader. In his spare time, Jesse also loved fishing, according to his father.

Above all, Jesse Sheppard was a Christian who loved Jesus and reflected his deep faith in the way that he lived his relatively brief life on Earth. He was a fellow member of Peter's Creek Baptist Church, having sung in the choir and participated in the church's youth group. Jesse was a proud member of the Patrick County High School Praise and Worship Team, a group of Christian students who visited local churches and performed gospel songs and gave their testimony at community functions. Jesse was certainly a young witness of his faith in Jesus Christ. In fact, he reportedly, led a fellow student who was a non-believer to a knowledge of Jesus through his personal witness.

"I was so proud of him," a heartbroken Eric Sheppard told me of his son Jesse during our conversation Sunday as he awaited the return of his son's body to Patrick County from North Carolina, site of the accident, and prepared to make funeral arrangements. "I know where he is, though," said Eric, taking comfort int he fact that Jesse is now in the presence of Jesus in Heaven awaiting a joyful reunion with his family and friends one sweet day.

Asked if the family has any particular need as they deal with their tremendous loss, Eric simply stated, "Prayer is what we need." Please joing the many in our small, close-knit community who are praying for the Sheppard family as well as the families of Jonathan Corns, the 19-year-old son of Billy and Elaine Corns of Critz, and Chris Howell, the 19-year-old son of Lemar and Lena Howell of the Moorefield Store Rd., Stuart, the two youths who suffered non-life threatening injuries in the crash that took their dear friend Jesse Sheppard. Jesse's life was very short but it was certainly a life well lived and one that serves as a good example of how we can better live our own lives by making Jesus our top priority.

Jesse is survived by his parents, Eric and Lisa Sheppard of Stuart and Wendy Wood Sheppard of Woolwine...one sister, Sarah Sehppard of Woolwine...a step-brother, Jonathan Woods of Stuart and a step-sister, Meredity Law of Stuart...his paternal grandparents, Geraldine and Bob McPeak of Stuart and Jimmy Sheppard of Stuart...his maternal grandparents, Benny and Connie Wood of Woolwine and his maternal great grandmother, Lillian C. Turner of Woolwine...his aunts and uncles, Kelly and Wade Hooker of Critz, Leslie and Tony Giorno of Salem, and Justin and Kayla Wood of Woolwine...cousins, Nicholas Hooker, Taylor Giorno, Hannah Giorno, and Kirstin Wood.

The funeral arrangements were still pending at the time of publication of this blog. Listen to "The Great Day in the Morning Show" weekdays from 6-10 a.m. for funeral arrangements and my continued tribute to the memory of this fine young man, my friend, Jesse Sheppard. May God rest his soul and comfort and strengthen his loving family.

Prayerfully yours,
Richard

Making a Difference!

Patrick County citizens...the most caring and compassionate people anywhere...have just completed another highly successful American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraising campaign that is nearing its goal of $79,000. "When you look at the economic situation, it is phenomenal to see the amount of money you have raised," said Robin Minter, the American Cancer Society's Community Manager for Patrick County. Following the campaign wrap-up banquet on Tuesday night at the Patrick County Community Center, it was reported that Patrick County's 2009 fundraising total has reached $78,542. If we can collect the remaining approximately $500 pledged during the WHEO "Twelve Hours for a Cure" Relay Radio-thon, we will have reached our goal for the third consecutive year. If you haven't yet honored your radio-thon pledge, please send your contribution to WHEO, 3824 Wayside Rd., Stuart, VA 24171. We still have until Aug. 31st to credit contributions to this year's campaign and will almost assuredly reach or even top the $79,000 goal.

This money will be well-spent to conduct further research into cancer treatments and cures, and to provide programs and services to cancer patients and caregivers. "You are making it happen. You are saving lives, touching lives everyday. You are making a difference," Mrs. Minter told volunteers. In fact, Mrs. Minter added emphatically, "You are saving my life." An inspiring example of courage herself, ironically, Mrs. Minter, the leader of our war on cancer, just learned several weeks ago (as a result to her visit to the University of Virginia mammography unit that visited Patrick County) she has breast cancer, and she has decided to undergo a radical masectomy. "Cancer is just a word," said Mrs. Minter, "it is not a (death) sentence." "I'm going to fight like a girl; I'm going to win like a woman!" I am sure that she will overcome this hurdle that God has placed in her path and that He will continue to use her and our local Relay for Life volunteers to help others facing cancer. Please pray for Robin and for her father who is also battling cancer.

Receiving special recognition at the June 9th campaign closer were these Relay for Life participants: Top Team--Angels in the Outfield (Ross Harbor United Methodist Chruch)...Top Participant--Sandra Heath (Hilltoppers for a Cure team)...Top Corporate Team--WHEO's Kilowatts for a Cure (in memory of Sandra Rogers); Top Corporate Fundraiser--Richard Rogers (organizer of the WHEO radio-thon which raised over $10,500 of the almost $79,000 total for 2009). I would personally like to thank each of the other Relay for Life teams that worked so hard to help WHEO make the radio-thon so successful, especially considering the state of the economy in Patrick County. This whole fundraising campaign, in particular, and the battle against cancer in our county, in general, has truly been a community-wide effort that has been another resounding success because so many people have come together to support a cause in which they deeply believe. As a result of these efforts, I truly believe that Patrick County has helped bring the world a little bit closer to a cancer-free tomorrow. As Mrs. Minter's words echo in my mind, I believe that we can all take pride in the fact that we truly are "making a difference"!

Thank you all again for your financial support, your time, your energy, and, most of all, your prayers.

God bless Patrick County!
Richard

PCHS Pride!

There is no doubt that, academically speaking, Patrick County High School is one of the finest secondary schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Even though I graduated shortly before PCHS opened and did not have the honor of attending the school, I take deep pride in living in a community served by such an outstanding high school. Recently, my sense of "PCHS Pride" has been compounded by several remarkable developments. This week, PCHS Principal E.G. Bradshaw was named by the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals as the Principal of the Year in Virginia for 2009. That is a remarkable honor that is not only a tribute to Mr. Bradshaw's leadership and administrative skills but a testament to the hard work and dedication of his staff, our teachers, and the school system at large.

I think that E.G. has done a remarkable job in guiding PCHS for the past 10 years. Among his many accomplishments which comes immediately to mind is the implementation of the "Square D" dual enrollment program in which graduating seniors can earn their high school diploma and a college associate's degree at the same time. It is also remarkable that in a rural county like Patrick, more than 85% of the PCHS graduating seniors go on to attend college. Such an accomplishment would not have been possible without the guidance and direction of E.G. Bradshaw.

I would also like to personally commend E.G. for the respect and openness that he has always show me as a member of the media. Every request that I have made for information and guest appearances by students and teachers on my radio show has always been quickly granted and the necessary arranged have been made by E.G. Just today (Tuesday, June 2nd), for example, E.G., who was traveling with the PCHS softball team to the state tournament, while enroute quickly returned a call that I'd placed to his office earlier in the day and agreed to be a guest on my radio talk show "Community Conversation" next Tuesday morning, June 9th at 8:10 a.m. I will be most honored to have E.G. on the show to learn more about the great things that are now happening and anticipated to happen in the future at PCHS. Congratulations E.G. on your honor. You are most deserving!

Another source of great "PCHS Pride" these days is the Patrick County High School softball team which Tuesday (6/2) advanced to to semifinals of the state tournament. The Lady Cougars (19-4), the Piedmont District and Region IV runners-up to the the undefeated Tunstall Lady Trojans, defeated, Turner Ashby 2-0 Tueday evening in the state quarterfinals in Brookville, VA. The Lady Cougars will next play on Friday in the state playoffs. No matter what the outcome of that game, the Lady Cougars are champions in my heart and the hearts of proud fellow Patrick Countians. They'll be right there fighting hard in Friday's semifinal game and I'm sure their proud principal...and Virginia's Outstanding High School Principal 2009...E.G. Bradshaw will be there rallying his team and cheering louder than anyone!

Full of "PCHS Pride",
Richard

PCHS Pride!

There is no doubt that, academically speaking, Patrick County High School is one of the finest secondary schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Even though I graduated shortly before PCHS opened and did not have the honor of attending the school, I take deep pride in living in a community served by such an outstanding high school. Recently, my sense of "PCHS Pride" has been compounded by several remarkable developments. This week, PCHS Principal E.G. Bradshaw was named by the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals as the Principal of the Year in Virginia for 2009. That is a remarkable honor that is not only a tribute to Mr. Bradshaw's leadership and administrative skills but a testament to the hard work and dedication of his staff, our teachers, and the school system at large.

I think that E.G. has done a remarkable job in guiding PCHS for the past 10 years. Among his many accomplishments which comes immediately to mind is the implementation of the "Square D" dual enrollment program in which graduating seniors can earn their high school diploma and a college associate's degree at the same time. It is also remarkable that in a rural county like Patrick, more than 85% of the PCHS graduating seniors go on to attend college. Such an accomplishment would not have been possible without the guidance and direction of E.G. Bradshaw.

I would also like to personally commend E.G. for the respect and openness that he has always show me as a member of the media. Every request that I have made for information and guest appearances by students and teachers on my radio show has always been quickly granted and the necessary arranged have been made by E.G. Just today (Tuesday, June 2nd), for example, E.G., who was traveling with the PCHS softball team to the state tournament, while enroute quickly returned a call that I'd placed to his office earlier in the day and agreed to be a guest on my radio talk show "Community Conversation" next Tuesday morning, June 9th at 8:10 a.m. I will be most honored to have E.G. on the show to learn more about the great things that are now happening and anticipated to happen in the future at PCHS. Congratulations E.G. on your honor. You are most deserving!

Another source of great "PCHS Pride" these days is the Patrick County High School softball team which Tuesday (6/2) advanced to to semifinals of the state tournament. The Lady Cougars (19-4), the Piedmont District and Region IV runners-up to the the undefeated Tunstall Lady Trojans, defeated, Turner Ashby 2-0 Tueday evening in the state quarterfinals in Brookville, VA. The Lady Cougars victory set up a 5th showdown of the season with Tunstall, the only team to which PCHS has lost all year. All of those games have been highly competitive, hard fought contests that have most commonly been decided by a single run. It will be difficult for the Lady Trojans to beat a team of the caliber of the Lady Cougars a 5th time. We'll see! No matter what the outcome of that game, the Lady Cougars are champions in my heart and the hearts of proud fellow Patrick Countians. They'll be right there fighting in Friday's semifinal game against Tunstall and I'm sure their proud principal...and Virginia's Outstanding Principal 2009...E.G. Bradshaw will be there rallying his team and cheering louder than anyone!

Full of "PCHS Pride",
Richard

Freedom Is Expensive!

The death of a second Patrick County soldier in Iraq last week serves as a poignant reminder that the freedoms that we as Americans enjoy (and all too often take for granted) are not free at all. In deed, freedom is very expensive. The liberties with which we are blessed in these great United States of America come with a great price tag...a debt that has been paid by courageous American soldiers like First Lieutenant Leevi Khole Barnard of Ararat and earlier Patrick County's Jonathan Bowling who both gave their lives in service to our country in war-torn Iraq. It is the memory of these and other fallen American heroes that we honored during the Memorial Day observance on Monday, May 25th. Memorial Day formerly was observed on May 30th and VFW groups advocate a return to that date. That's why Patrick County's Memorial Day service has been scheduled for this Saturday, May 30th. This solemn ceremony will be held at Patrick Memorial Gardens at 1 p.m. Saturday and conducted by the Patrick County Veterans' Memorial Honor Guard. The program will include patriotic music and the National Anthem by Johnny Joyce with the raising of the flag by the Honor Guard, the placing of a wreath and POW/MIA symbol by the Combined Ladies Auxiliary, tributes to the military branches by the Patrick County High School JROTC, a speech by Sgt. Jason Rortvedt, a memorial reading titled the "Meaning of 13 Folds" by Scott Sanborn, and a reading of the poem "Freedom Is Not Free" by Sanborn. We owe a great debt to the veterans of our country...especially those who have given their lives to defend our land and the principles that we value. So let's take time out from our busy schedules on Saturday, May 30th, to remember and to honor the memory of those patriotic and courageous American men and women who, since our country's founding, have paid the high price for our freedoms and given us the priviledge of living in "the land of the free and the home of the brave."

Please keep the family of First Lt. Barnard in your prayers and honor his memory with your presence at Saturday's Memorial Day ceremony. God bless America!
Richard

Freedom is Expensive

The death of a second Patrick County soldier in Iraq last week serves as a poignant reminder that the freedsoms that we as Americans enjoy (and all too often take for granted) are not free at all. In deed, freedom is very expensive. The liberties with which we are blessed in these great United States of America come with a great price tag...a debt that has been paid by courageous American soldiers like First Lieutenant Leevi Khole Barnard of Ararat and earlier Patrick County's Jonathan Bowling who both gave their lives in service to our country in war-torn Iraq.

It is the memory of these and other fallen American heroes that we honored during the Memorial Day observance on Monday, May 25th. Memorial Day formerly was observed on May 30th and VFW groups advocate a return to that date. That's why Patrick County's Memorial Day service has been scheduled for this Saturday, May 30th. This solemn ceremony will be held at Patrick Memorial Gardens at 1 p.m. Saturday and conducted by the Patrick County Veterans' Memorial Honor Guard. The program will include patriotic music and the National Anthem by Johnny Joyce with the raising of the flag by the Honor Guard, the placing of a wreath and POW/MIA symbol by the Combined Ladies Auxiliary, tributes to the military branches by the Patrick County High School JROTC, a speech by Sgt. Jason Rortvedt, a memorial reading titled the "Meaning of 13 Folds" by Scott Sanborn, and a reading of the poem "Freedom Is Not Free" by Sanborn.

We owe a great debt to the veterans of our country...especially those who have given their lives to defend our land and the principles that we value. So let's take time out from our busy schedules on Saturday, May 30th, to remember and to honor the memory of those patriotic and courageous American men and women who, since our country's founding, have paid the high price for our freedoms and given us the priviledge of living in "the land of the free and the home of the brave."

Please keep the family of First Lt. Barnard in your prayers and honor his memory with your presence at Saturday's Memorial Day ceremony. God bless America!

Richard

The Buttermilk Boy

I hate buttermilk but I was happy to have the opportunity to drink some more Friday evening, May 15th when we finally exceeded out goal at the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Radio-thon, "Twelve Hours for a Cure III", on WHEO Radio, 1270 AM, Stuart, VA. The buttermilk thing has become a tradition associated with this annual event that is now three years old. Yuuuucccckkkk! But Yeeaaaahhhhhh! We did it again! Thanks to the generosity and caring of Patrick County citizens and our neighbors we raised $10,500 (topping the $10,000 goal) during the radio-thon. How blessed we were to raise that kind of money in a county that has been devastated by job losses and economic hardship even before the recession went national. It was a wonderful day of fellowship, fun, food, and live entertainment provided by more than 50 of the finest most caring singers and musicians in the world who make their home right here in our community. To the many people of our community who came together for this cause...to the talented singers and musicians who gave of their talents...to the wonderful citizens who attended the WHEO open house to show their support for our cause...to the army of volunteers who worked tirelessly througout the day to make the radio-thon successful...to all those who listened faithfully throughout the day....and, most of all, to God who blessed us and communed with us all day long, this "buttermilk boy" would like to sincerely thank you all! As a result of our efforts, I honestly believe we have moved a step closer to a cancer-free tomorrow.

P.S. Please continue to keep my dear friend ~Shannon Stowe and her family in your prayers. :O) During the day of the radio-thon, Shannon underwent surgery in Winston-Salem, NC, to remove an early stage one melanoma and was able to return to Stuart and to enjoy the last few hours of the radio-thon with her family and all of us at the radio-station. Let's all pray that Shannon will get a cancer-FREE post surgery report from her doctor on Wednesday. God bless Shannon and all the others who have faced this disease in all its many forms courageously, optimistically, and victoriously!

Thanks and God bless you all.

All my love :O),
Richard

Twelve Hours for a Cure!

This Friday, May 15th, WHEO Radio is putting regular business aside in order to devote our full attention to a great cause. We are asking the people of Patrick County to join us in the fight against cancer on this day. "Twelve Hours for a Cure III"...the WHEO Radio-thon for the benefit of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life...will air from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. Local volunteers will assist the WHEO staff in conducting the radio-thon. Telephone operators will be on duty throughout the day taking your tax-decuctible contributions. The telephone numbers are (276) 694-3114, 694-3115, 694-3388, 694-2138, 692-4263, 692-4264, 692-4265, and 692-4266.

The 3rd annual Relay for Life Radio-thon will feature live entertainment by more than 50 of the area's finest singers and musicians...on air interviews with cancer survivors and caregivers...and appearances by regional and local American Cancer Society officials and volunteers.

Please come and join us throughout the day at your convenience. In conjunction with the radio-thon, WHEO will hold open house all day. Stop by and enjoy free food, drinks, desserts, great live entertainment, and plenty of down home fellowship. The entertainment line-up will include Vernon Harris, Denny Archer, Jackie Belcher, Jim Shelor, Sue Nester, the CeltHix, Debbie Bennett, One Accord, the Glory Road Singers, Bill Banks, Cecil Hall and the Dominion Bluegrass Boys, Tommy Nichols, Michael Ray Fain, Barry Collins, Jason Harris, the Downtown Boys, Tina, Herbert, and Katherine Conner, the Over the Hill Gang, Cornerstone Grass, and others.

"Twelve Hours for a Cure III" is being presented by the WHEO Relay for Life team, the Kilowatts for a Cure in memory of my late wife Sandra Merritt Rogers, who died of cancer two years ago. Thanks to the musicians, volunteers, and these and other contributors: Honduras Coffee Company, Stuart Communications, On the Run, Foley's Autoville, Little Caesars, Moody Funeral Home, and Community Funeral Home. Thanks most of all to the many caring Patrick Countians who are supporting our efforts to fight cancer with their time, talents, and prayers. On this day our community comes together united in our efforts to realize our dream of a cancer-free tomorrow. Please pray that God will bless these efforts richly. Thank you so much.

Richard

A Mother's Love

Exceeded only by the love of God, a mother's love is perhaps the strongest force in the universe. I am thankful to have been blessed with a dear mother who has loved and sacrificed for me throughout her life. It was wonderful to spend the day with her and members of my family. All of the children and their families accompanied her to church today. As my sister Beverly said as we watched her smiling from her seat in the choir, "She's as proud as a peacock that we are all her for her today." We were just as proud to be there with her on her special day.

After church, we had planned to take my mother, Willie Mae Ray, out to lunch. However, she suprised everyone and had prepared a delicous home-cooked meal second to none for the whole family. So we all gathered at her house for a special Mother's Day celebration after the church service. That's just typical of my mom...always thinking of others without regard for herself. The children all said, "Mom, you shouldn't have...but we're glad you did!" Thanks mom, I love you! Happy Mother's Day to all moms. Thanks for the treasure of a mother's love!

Richard

Young Witnesses for Christ

All too often we hear much about the bad things (drugs, sex, pornography, crime, etc.) in which some young people of today's troubled society are involved. However, all you have to do is look around our community to see the many good things that our youth are doing. In fact, I think that the positive far outweighs the negative when it comes to youth involvement, especially here is Patrick County where some of the finest kids on the planet are being raised.

A prime example of what I am talking about is the Patrick County High School Praise and Worship Team and its work in our community. On Saturday evening May 2nd, PCHS Praise and Worship team members sang during a gospel singing and old-fashioned weiner roast at Concord United Methodist Church. (The following day, they were scheduled to appear at the Landmark Assisted Living Center in Stuart.) I was so moved by their Saturday night performance and their witness for Christ that I am inspired to publicly commend this group of young Christians on this blog page. This small country church was filled to near capacity for the performance and everyone there seemed to be as moved spiritually as I was. It is an inspiration to see and hear teenagers speaking out for Jesus in words and song. The members of the team are just as eloquent in expressing their love for God and the blessings they receive from their participation in this group as they are talented in singing His praises. These young witnesses for Christ serve as positive role models for other young people and adults alike. They certainly warmed my heart and reminded me of the myriad of daily blessings from God that we should all be thankful to receive.

The Patrick County High School Praise and Worship Team is comprised of about 45 students from different grade levels. In a society plagued by ongoing efforts to take God out of our schools, government buildings, and other public places, the PCHS Praise and Worship Team stands as a testament to the fact that young people can have this outlet for expression of their faith without disrupting their schooling or the education of other students. The team meets at 7 a.m. each Thursday morning during the school year in the high school auditorium before the school day begins. During that time, the team prepares for a series of scheduled public appearances at various churches during the school year including my church Peters Creek Baptist on Sunday, May 7 at 7 p.m. The team will hold its annual picnic including pin ceremony, senior recognition, and celebration on Saturday, May 9th at Dehart Park, and will take part in the PCHS Baccalaurate Service on Sunday, May 31st.

Our community is certainly blessed to have this youth organization that is devoted to serving Christ at a time in the lives of these youngsters when peer pressure to do wrong is intense. I commend the PCHS Praise and Worship Team...Robin Amos, who guides the team...and the Patrick County Public School Administration for its support of this wonderful Christian organization for Patrick County High School students. To God be the glory!

A Community Treasure

Patrick County is such a wonderful place in which to live because of caring, compassionate people who seek to serve others above themselves. Jesse Mae Vernon exemplifies these admirable qualities as well as anyone in the community. On Sunday afternoon, Apr. 26th, I was honored to be among the many citizens who attended a reception in the John D. Hooker Memorial Building at Rotary Field in Stuart in honor of Ms. Vernon, who celebrated her 90th birthday on Thursday, Apr. 23rd. Despite the fact that she has enjoyed 9 decades of life, Ms. Vernon has the energy and vitality of a much younger person. Apparently in relatively good health as she reaches this milestone in her life, Ms. Vernon is still highly active in her family, her church, and the community.

Ms. Vernon dedicated her life to serving the youth of the county during a 34-year career as one of Patrick County's most beloved and respected teachers. In her retirement, she has been kept quite busy, attending bible study and being involved in various church activities including serving the homemade ice cream for which her church, Concord United Methodist, is widely known, volunteering for the American Red Cross blood drives in Patrick County, being a member of the Patrick County Retired Teacher's Association, and assisting in various other community functions. According to her son Charles Vernon, Jesse Mae still cooks Sunday dinner for about 25 members of the family, does yard work (recently she spread two truck loads of mulch to keep her lawn beautiful), and is always there when anyone in the community is in need of assistance and prayer. Her focus is always on others, never on herself.

Asked about her secret to a long, successful life, Jesse Mae jokingly replied, "I inherated these good Ayers' genes." Actually, said Ms. Vernon, "being active" is the key to her happy and healthy life.

Speaking personally, Jesse Mae Vernon is an inspiration! She is an example of the kind of person that I aspire to be even thought I tend to fall far short of the standards of excellence in family, church, and community service that she has established. She is a wonderful role model for us all! You are truly a community treasure, Jesse Mae. Happy 90th birthday and many, many more!

Play Ball!

Some slightly aging and somewhat inactive muscles will be stretched to the limit this Friday night for a great cause in our community. Come out to the old ballpark at Rotary Field in Stuart this Friday evening, Apr. 24th, and help "Strike Out Cancer"! Yes, get involved in the war on cancer and have a fun evening with your family and friends. Attend a benefit softball game to raise funds in the Patrick County's American Cancer Society Relay for Life campaign.

The opening ceremony will involve Boy Scout Troop #65, Pastor David Freeman, and Rachel and Holly Williams. The ladies' game at 6:00 p.m. will pit "The Pink Panthers" team (inspector Clouseau would be so proud of Amy Fain, Sandra Heath, and their teammates) against "The Purple Power" team the purple pride of Patrick County. The men's game at 7:00 p.m. will be a hard-fought battle of Paul Bunyon-like ballplayers as "The Hardwoods" go against "The Tree Toppers". In the consolation game to follow, Wilbur Walker's Patrick Henry VA-Carolina Seniors will try to keep pace with the junior sluggers, playing one of the men's teams in the nightcap. The evening will bring some highly competitive softball action and undoubtedly lots of laughs as well. Admission is only $2...Food and drinks will be sold by the Hilltop Hustlers for a Cure Relay for Life Team. Great family entertainment at a bargain price! All proceeds will go to Patrick County's Relay for Life efforts to help find a cure for cancer and fund programs and survives for local cancer survivors and caregivers.

Thanks to the teams which will include several Patrick County High School alumni softball players and past Patrick County Recreation League players as well as many other avid softball enthusiasts in the community. For more information call Sandra Heath, Annette Freeman or Jessica Slate at 694-2707. Now "PLAY BALL"!

Other upcoming Relay for Life fund-raisers this weekend: The FCCLA Fighters from Patrick County High School will hold a bake sale Saturday, Apr. 25th, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wal-Mart in Stuart...Angels in the Outfield will serve a country breakfast Saturday from 7-10 a.m. at Ross Harbour UMC, Elamsville Road. Cost, $6 adults and $3 children. The Women of Faith will hold a yard Sale Friday and Saturday, Apr. 24 and 25th, beginning at 8 a.m. each day at New Hope UMC on Clark House Farm Rd. Breakfast and lunch will be available. Of course, the "purple potty" will continue to make its rounds in the community as a fund-raiser of Five Star Mountain Momories Relay for Life team. Thanks for your support of the fight against cancer in our community. For more information visit the website www.relayforlife.org/patrick or call 1-800-ACS-2345 or 694-6125. Let's stamp out cancer in our community!

A Day of Remembrance

Today, as an alumnus of Virginia Tech, my thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the 32 victims of the tragic massacre in Blacksburg two years ago on Apr. 16, 2007. Today, I seek to honor the memory of those who died in this tragedy in our own backyard that both shocked and changed the world.

On this somber anniversary, I am reminded that, in this troubled world, LIFE, in all its preciousness, can be taken away in an instant. Life's frailty demands that we place our lives in God's care and control completely, try to live each moment fully, and love and serve one another freely. God bless.

Richard

The Beauty of Easter!

Epitomizing spring, the season of rebirh and renewal, Easter is perhaps the most beautiful and refreshing time of the year. And this Easter day may be the most beautiful that I have ever seen. I started my day by rising early for a 6:45 a.m. Easter sunrise service at my church, delightfully becoming first acquainted with the glory of this day.

I can't imagine a day being more blessed with beauty than this one, Sunday, April 12, 2009, Easter Sunday! By the same token, I can not imagine anyone being more blessed than you and me to be able to behold and enjoy a day like this in all its natural splendor. The sky is the bluest I can remember seeing it with nary a cloud to block the brilliant sunshine that warms my soul as if it is proceeding directly from the smile of God :0). The grass is green and lush, just begging for bare feet and Easter eggs to be hidden beneath its verdant blades. A fresh breeze caresses the body, signaling us that God Himself is constantly near if we just take the time to experience Him. The birds are chirping the happiest of tunes, rejoicing in the peace that permeates this magnificent day. Under the Lord's precise climate control, the afternoon weather conditions are simply supurb in every way. The mountains are magnificant. God is the most masterful of artists! To step outside on a radiant and picturesque day like today is to be surrounded by irrefutable evidence of God's certain existence, His unconditional love, and His abiding grace.

Truly, as the beloved gospel song inspired by King David's words in Psalm 118 states, "This is the day that the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Above all, let us rejoice in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Savior! Because Jesus paid our sin debt by shedding His precious blood while suffering on Calvary's cross and because He is risen, we, who are Christians, have atonement and freedom from the sins that once bound us and the hope of an eternity in our Lord's presence in paradise. We have the blessed assurance of eternal life in Heaven simply by our faith in Christ through God's grace. I certainly believe! This is the essence of Easter! Because Jesus lives, believers share in the victory of life over death that He achieved when truimphantly from the grave He arose. That, my friend, is the real beauty of Easter!

As we go forth from this indecribably beautiful Easter day, let's strive to allow this spirit of rebirth and renewal in Christ to engulf and bring us joy every day of our lives. Praise the Lord! To God be the glory! Hallelujah! Amen!

Happy Easter,
Richard

A Place Called Grace

I have just returned from an unforgettable journey to "A Place Called Grace." I was among approximately 30 "pilgrims" who participated in the Dan River Walk to Emmaus #46 this past weekend at a lakefront 4-H Center in Reidsville, NC. Themed "A Place Called Grace," the 7-hour sojourn...inspired by the Biblical walk by the Resurrected Jesus with two of His disciples along the Road to Emmaus...was one of the most powerful spiritual experiences of my life. Each of us pilgrims (first time participants in the Emmaus Walk) experienced the unconditional love and boundless grace of Jesus and got a little taste of what Heaven must certainly be like. I won't get into specifics so as not to spoil the experience for persons making the pilgrimage in the future. Just know that It was incredible and one that every Christian should consider making at some point. However, I will say that we laughed, cried (grown men can do it as well as babies, believe me), sang praises to God, shared our deepest burdens with each other, and heard 15 inspirational "talks" that focused on how we as Christians can more fully experience God's love and grace and share these blessings with our neighbors. Not only were we fed spiritually, but our physically bodies were stuffed as well with delicious, abundant meals and plenty of hearty snacks in between.

One of the most special things about the weekend was that throughout the 72-hour Emmaus Walk, countless people were engaged in around-the-clock prayer for each of us participants by name. Many other acts of "agape" or unconditional love like God's were shared with each of the pilgrims. I would like to thank the many Christians in our community and far beyond who prayed for me during my Walk to Emmaus and the many from whom I received cards, letters, and support. Many of these people I will never meet or know but I do know that they loved me as a fellow Christian and through their prayers positively impacted my life. Thanks too to my sponsor, my friend Will Walker, who is widely loved and respected in the Dan River Emmaus community as is his wife Genia and their daughter Amy.

The weekend was designed to allow each of us to focus our attention upon our relationship with Jesus without interference from the outside world. We gave up our watches, clocks, cellphones, computers, the Internet, and other distractions devoting our full attention to a relaxed examination of our personal relationships with Jesus and to our personal growth as Christians. After a weekend apart from the temporal world, I must say it was a challenge to return to the split-second timing required of a morning radio show host. It was so relaxing indeed, even surreal to give, up all those things of the world and just enjoy time spent in prayer, worship, study, self-examination, and fellowship with the Lord and fellow Christians.

I believe that my participation in the 46th Dan River Walk to Emmaus strengthened my Christian faith immensely and drew me much closer to Jesus. Please continue to pray for me as I seek to surrender control of my life to Christ and thereby allow Jesus to bear my burdens and fulfill His purpose for me. Although I have been a Christian for a long time, only after my Emmaus experience am I fully beginning to develop the intimate relationship wth Jesus for which my soul longs. I have found that there is a void in each of our lives that only Jesus can fill and unless we submit our tenacious human control to Him we can never truly attain the true happiness and joy that all Christians should rejoice in daily. After our incredible visit to "A Place Called Grace", now each of the Emmaus Walk participants must persevere on the "Fourh Day," which was defined as each and every day of our lives following the 3-day Emmaus Walk as we try to apply the Christian principles that we learned to our own lives in this modern material world and to share Jesus' love and grace with our neighbors, our communities, and a lost and dying world. Please continue to pray for me and other Emmaus pilgrims and our lay and clergy leadership team! I would like to invite comments from the many others in our community who have also shared in the life-changing Emmaus experience. God's grace be with you!

De Colores,
Richard

Hospital Administrator Resigns

Less than one month into the new management contract with Pioneer Health Services, the R.J. Reynolds Patrick County Memorial Hospital has lost the administrative officer who nursed the troubled medical facility through its darkest times. Janice Wilkins told me tonight that she submitted her resignation as hospital administrator today, Mon., Mar. 23, 2009. "It is time in my life for me to put my priorities in order, the Lord first, then my family and my community," said Wilkins. "I'm very proud of how we made it through some difficult times. It has been a tough 4 years," added Mrs. Wilkins of her tenure as administrator of the financially struggling local hospital. She said "a wonderful group of people kept the facility open," during its most difficult times. Mrs. Wilkins said she will announce her future plans in about two weeks. her resignation will become effective May 1, 2009.

I know Janice personally and how hard she has worked to keep the hospital open. I can't imagine anyone being more dedicated to a cause or as passionate about an institution as Janice is about our local hospital. Janice, I commend you and past and present members of your staff for your perseverence and dedication to keeping the hospital afloat on the stormy seas upon which it has sailed in recent years. I wish you much success in your future indeavors and look forward to continuing to work with you in service to our community as members of the Stuart Rotary Club.

I am hopeful that the new management team at the hospital will be able to rescue the hospital but the loss of Mrs. Wilkins as administrator is a real setback it seems to me. I urge everyone in the community to utilize the services that are still available at the hospital or will become available to the public in the future. Only through public support will the hospital be able to ultimately survive and become economically viable again no matter who runs it. Our local hospital has lost a very able administrator but we must continue on as a community to help keep the hospital that we so desperately need in Patrick County. Let's keep the hospital's new management in our prayers...as well as Mrs. Wilkins as she embarks upon a new phase of her life.

Proudly Patrick,
Richard

A Great Day for Patrick County

Once on the verge of ceasing operations and closing ts doors, Patrick County's beleagured hospital has new managment and renewed hope. "It's a great day for Patrick County," declared Del. Ward Armstrong Tuesday during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and public reception celebrating the start of operations of the local hospital (officially March 1, 2009), now known as Pioneer Community Hospital of Patrick County, under the management of Pioneer Medical Services, a Mississippi-based company that specializes in the operations of critical access hospitals.

This truly is 'great' news for a community that has endured many years of economic hardship, in general, and financial struggles by the hospital, in particular. The local hospital is vital to the continued growth and vitality of our county, in terms of, not only health care services but, economic development, community stability, and quality of life . The fact that the would-be tragedy of its closing was averted is attributable to the widespread community support the hosptial enjoys as well as the collaboration of officials at the local, state, and federal levels of government. The community is "sincere about the hospital," said Pioneer executive Steve Fontaine, applauding its public backing. He said that sincerity was a major factor in the decision by Pioneer Health Services to enter into a 5-year lease areement to manage and operate the hospital with plans to expand its services and, hopefully, recall laid off workers. The resuce of the medical facility by Pioneer marks the start of a new era for the hospital which has been an indispensable community resource for 47 years having been opened in 1962.

I commend County Administrator Jay Scudder for his tireless work in pursuing a solution to the hospital's dilemma over many months. "Perseverence" was the key, said Scudder. Also to be commended are members of the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, Assistant County Adminitrator and Economic Development Director Tom Rose, State Sen. Roscoe Reynolds, Del. Armstrong, U.S. Representative Rick Boucher, Governor Tim Kaine and other state officials, and many other community leaders who worked behind the scenes to make Tuesday "a great day for Patrick County."

Now, its up to the community to use the hospital and to support its revitalization in order for the local hospital to become financially viable. Our continued community support will ensure that Tuesay, Mar. 3, 2009 truly was a "great day" in the history of Patrick County.

Taking pride in Patrick,
Richard

Lady Cougars Are Roaring!

As their remarkable season rolls on into March, the month of basketball "madness", the maddening roar of the Patrick County High School girls' varsity basketball team is beginning to be heard around the state. The Piedmont District regular season champion Lady Cougars claimed another prestigious title Friday night when PCHS conquered Graham High School with a 51-49 victory at Graham Middle School in the Region IV, Division 3 championship game. The Lady Cougars thus earned their first regional title in almost two decades. Patrick County High last won a regional championship in 1990.

"When you get to this point, it comes down to who wants it more," head coach Glenn Burnett, the Piedmont District Coach of the Year, was quoted as saying in a published report. The hungry, determined Lady Cougars...who have given our economically-devastated community something to cheer about in these often depressing times...now set their sights on the next level of competition.

The Piedmont District and Region IV, Division 3 champion PCHS Lady Cougars have advanced to the state tournament this weekend in the Salem Civic Center. Patrick County will play in the state quarterfinal round on Friday or Saturday against an opponent to be annouced later.

Let's ask God to help the Lady Cougars to prepare for this daunting challenge both physically and mentally and to give them the strength and determination they will need to continue to play at their very best...which to this point has truly been championship form. Keep on roarin,' Lady Cougars! The whole community is behind you. Patrick Countians are proud of our team no matter what happens in Salem. This week, let's all show that Lady Cougar pride by wearing the PCHS green and gold! GO LADY COUGARS as your roar reverberates around the Old Dominion!!!

With great PCHS pride,
Richard

Cougar Pride, Lady-like

Occasionally the play of an athletic team transcends the boundaries of its sport and profoundly impact the larger culture. I think this is true for this year's Patrick County High School girls' varsity basketball team. At a time when many people are suffering economic hardships in our community and the news is often depressing, the play of the Lady Cougars this season has inspired many of us and reminded us that we can all overcome adversity if we persevere or, as the Apostle Paul, put it "press toward the mark".

Because of their perseverence, the PCHS girls basketball team won the Piedmont District regular season championship for the first time in a decade and finished the regular season undefeated at 8-0 including 2 wins over arch-rival Bassett High School. It is difficult to beat a team of the quality of Bassett three times in one season, and unfortunately Patrick County fell just short of accomplishing that feat when it lost to Bassett in the district tournament final Friday night, Feb. 20, in a hard-fought battle of champions. However, the Lady Cougars have every right to hold their heads high as they prepare for action in the Region IV tournament this week. We are the Champions!

The fact that the Lady Cougars are champions goes far beyond their play on the basketball court. The PCHS girls basketball team has not only rekindled our pride as Patrick Countians but the team has also given us an emotional boost that is much needed during these tought times. I commend the team for its spirit, courage, and determination, which are very admirable qualities that we can all reach down deep inside and draw upon as we positively strive to better our community and ourselves despite personal and community problems that sometimes seem insurmountable. Thanks to the Lady Cougars for this lesson on life...and good luck to the team in the regionals.

I would personally like to congratulate the Patrick County High School Lady Cougars as a team that truly works together and gives its best at all times! Individually, my congratulations go to Kylene Culler and Whitney Bowers who have been named to the All-Piedmont District First Team, to Casey Bradshaw (All-District Second Team), and to PCHS girls' basketball coach Glenn Burnett, who has been voted the Piedmont District Coach of the Year. Way to go Cougars! You have touched our lives in a special way both on and off the basketball court.

Taking pride in our community,
Richard

A Creation of God!

It seems that more and more our nation is turning away from its trust in God, the bedrock upon which our country was founded. The fact that today we find ourselves facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and a daunting set of problems at home and abroad is a result of the corruption, greed, and other ungodliness that has gripped humanity in general and our country in particular.

An article that I read recently serves as a prime example of the moral decay that has enshrouded our country and the world threatening our very existence. The Associated Press reported this week that more than 970 churches in the United States are observing Evolution Weekend revisiting the queston of whether man evolved from lower order species or, as I believe, was created by a higher being, the Lord God Almighty! The AP story added that these churches...thankfully, mine is not among them....are participating in this observace through sermons, Sunday school lessons, and even evolution dances as the world marks the 200th anniversary of evolution theorist Charles Darwin. The 974 churches across the country that are taking part in Evolution Weekend has more than doubled since the event began in 2006, the article stated.

Even though organizers of this observance said they're not abandoning the Bible's story of Adam and Eve, rather blending theories in a way that helps today's faithful reconcile the modern world with Biblical teachings, I find the Evolution Weekend idea shocking! Although I am not the smartest person around, I do have a college degree and I pride myself in trying to be open-minded to a variety of viewpoints. However, I have been taught that the Holy Bible is the Word of God, and that it is an infallable guide to the way in which we should live our earthly lives to prepare us for the eternity beyond. The Bible clearly teaches that God created mankind, the world, and the vast universe around us. That is what I believe and will continue to place my faith and trust in despite the fact that some scientists try to tell us that evolution is fact. Evolution is not fact; it is only theory. Masterfully crafted by our Creator, I believe that if humans and other animals have evolved over time, it has been under the guidance of a Supreme Being!

It is obvious to me that the complexity of life and the orderliness of the universe are the result of an intelligent design. We are the handiwork of God, not the result of billions of years of evolution that began with a so-called "Big Bang" eons ago. I am a creation of God! I know this is fact because God's Word tells me it is the truth. "In the beginning, God created...", begins the Bible. That is what I believe. Faith tells me it is so! Considering that where I'll spend iternity...in the paradise of Heaven or in the inferno of Hell...is on the line, I can not afford to believe anything else!

I think these over 900 misguided churches that are participating in Evolution Weekend are an example of what has been happening in the ministry in recent years. Too many churches, it seems, are getting away from a strict teaching of the Bible and giving in to the worldliness that has drawn us away from our God and the spiritual realm. We need to get back to the Bible and to pray that our nation will return to the moral principals upon which it was founded and became great. Only then will the greateness of the United States of America be restored! That is my belief. I would like to know what you think. Please click on "comments" and let me know. Thank you for your input to this blog. May the God who created us all bless you with a "great day"!

Richard

Accentuating the Positive!

Despite these tough economic times, it is a comfort that the Patrick County business community is blessed with positive leadership that is being provided by the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce. Just a few short years ago, the Chamber was on the verge of having to cease operations. Today, however, thanks to the leadership of Executive Director Tom Bishop and a highly competent Board of Directors, the Chamber is flourishing and is busier than ever before promoting our county to tourists and prospective new businesses and residents and serving its more than 300 members. Although our economy is critically ill, it is encouraging to note that the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce is quite healthy as it works diligently to facilitate prosperity here!

The health and well-being of the local Chamber of Commerce was never more evident than it was Friday night, Jan. 23rd, when it conducted its annual banquet at Rotary Field in Stuart. Perhaps the largest crowd in the history of the event, nearly 150 people, turned out for a wonderfully informative evening of fellowship. Bishop reported that currently the Chamber enjoys a growing membership in the neighborhood of 325. Bishop, in his annual report, highlighted many positive developments that have occured in our community this past year including...the construction of a "multi million dollar" lodge facility now underway at Primland Resort, the start of the $24-million Patrick County Public School renovation and expansion project, the opening a new manufacturing plant by Ariel Machine at Ararat, the openings of several new businesses (Wal-Mart, Advance Auto, etc.), visitation to the county by tourists from at least 40 states and several foreign countries, the increasing popularity of a wide variety of local festivals and fars, to name a few of the economically positive things that are going on in our county. Bishop said the chamber is proud of these and many other signs of community growth despite the economic downturn.

In her remarks to the banquet audience, incoming Chamber President Carol Beasley expressed hope that citizens will continue to work together for the betterment of our community. Mrs. Beasley used the word "Joy" to illustrate how our priorities should be ordered: "J" for Jesus, first..."O" for Others, next...and finally "Y" for You.

I commend Tom Bishop and other chamber officials on the great job that they are doing to promote the county and accentuate the positive at a time when we are all struggling through many negative economic circumstances. Tom is one of the hardest working people that I know (and one of the most underpaid). The business community loves him because he is genuinely concerned with their well-being and our county at large. As our Chamber Executive Director, Tom tirelessly promotes tourism which is a major sector of the local economy with unlimited room for growth. It would be a shame if the Patrick County Board of Supervisors takes away the meager sum of $60,000 (as one supervisor has suggested) that it has budgeted for the promotion of tourism by the Patrick County Tourism Advisory Board and the Chamber. This to me is money well spent.

I personally want to thank Tom Bishop and the members of the Chamber of Commerce Board for their leadership and the light that this organization brings in these dark economic times. The Chamber Executive Board is comprised of Carol Beasley, President...Lisa Martin, Vice President...Janie Lankford, Treasurer. Members include" Rod Barfield, Vicki Hutchens-Bennett, Patricia Crissman, Tim Dix, Kathy Gravely, Kelly Ratcliff, Leslie Shelor, Denise Stirewalt, and Terry Tilley. New board members are Angie Brown, Chris Michalec, and Rick Ward. Tom Bishop is ably assisted in the chamber office by Administrative Assistant Patricia Thomas. If you want to hear about the positive things that are happening in Patrick County, just talk to one of these folks. Not only can they talk the talk in promoting our county, but they are walking the walk in making our community a better place to live, to do businesss, to raise a family and, as thousands of tourists to the county each year learn, a wonderful place to visit! To the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce team I say with pride, "Keep up the great work"! Together, we will work our way through the economic gloom to a brighter, more prosperous future.

Richard

Our Diversity is Our Strength

The observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States this week provide the perfect time to reflect upon where our country is and where we want the nation to go as a new era in American politics begins. With regard to race relations and civil rights, our country has traveled light years from that day in 1955 when an African-American civil rights activist named Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alamama, bus to make way for a white passenger, a prelude to the civil rights struggles of the 1960s that thrust Dr. King to the forefront of the Civil Rights movement.

The inauguration of Mr. Obama as the nation's first African-American is, in large part, a fulfillment of Dr. King's vision for our country when he declared during the March on Washington that "I Have a Dream." Although the election of a black man as president of these great United States is an advance that many African-African Americans and members of other racial groups never thought they would see, much work needs to be done to continue the progress that has been made for Dr. King's "dream" to be fully realized.

To me, we are all children of God, each a unique creation unlike anyone else who has been graced with the breath of life. By realizing that our Lord created us all in His image and likeness, we can begin to understand that every human being, no matter what the color of his skin, his socio-economic status, his religious affiliation, or his political persuasion, is precious in God's sight and created to use the special skills and talents with which we have all been blessed to fulfill God;s purpose for our lives as an integral part of His Master Plan. Despite the many differences that God has given us as individuals and as a humanity, in our hearts we are all the same. We are all closer to each other than we think.

As a new American presidential administration takes office, let's pray that God will guide and direct our leaders in tackling the economic crisis and the myriad of other problems burdening our country today. I pray too that we will set an example for the world and return America to the God in whom our Founding Fathers professed and placed their trust in establishing this great nation. Only when we will give God His rightful place as our first priority both as individuals and as a country will we be able to truly address the challenges that our country faces, move our country forward in race relations, and fully bring to reality the American Dream.

As Martin Luther King, Jr. once said "I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear."

As we ponder the meaning of those words, let's all strive to lovingly help each other bear our burdens and work together, ever seeking God's direction, to lift our country from moral, economic, social, and political despair into which it has sunk.

God bless American...and you, my friends!

Richard