The Magatine ofthe.
APPAI AGI IIAN PROJFCT
SUMMER
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3
utente
2002
VOLUME
21,
NUMBER
THREE
The Magazine of the C H R IS T IA N A P P A L A C H IA N P R O JE C T
Developm ent Directives
• Moving Heaven and Earth..................................... 4 • More than a Video.................................................24 Community Partnerships
• SEKPWC A d voca cy Group Celebrates Five Years.........................................18 • Genesis CFDC Receives Three Stars......................20 • CAP Transitions Program to Community.............. 22
• Youth and Teen Picnic............................................11 • W ayland JobStart/Cenesis Graduates...........12/13 • Outreach/O peration Sharing.......................... 14/15
Contributing Reporter Carla Davis
Advisory Board: Michael Sanders, Ben Prewitt, Joan Hammons, Linville Rose
S T A F F NO T E S
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Published by the Christian Appalachian Project Managing Editor Jennifer Lavender
Around the Project
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C h a p la in 's C o rn e r
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A M ilestone for a M ira c le
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Know ing W h a t It Takes...
H i* | AspromS m H ? ised, summer ■ f i n saw us in motion, making v major strides I in our move to I the east. We A have seized the i - H l opportunities afforded us by the long days and sunshine to labor “while it is yet day”—for there is so much work to be done. Most of the labor happens behind the scenes, but in July we all got together to celebrate the ground breaking of our new headquarters, then rounded out the delightful day with the debut of Stella’s video (pg. 24) and announcement of her as our national spokesperson. Truly, God has blessed us! We have formed new friendships and developed new partnerships, working together to build a stronger
On the cover: CAP National Spokesperson Stella Parton, during the filming of the video “Up in the Holler,” all proceeds of which went to help various CAP programs. (Photo by Carla Davis)
Appalachia and a better America. One such partnership produced the returning of a program back to the local community (pg. 22) It is the strength of the Appalachian people that will enable it to carry on and continue to cultivate the resources of tomorrow, our youth. While it seems we are more driven now, than ever, let us pause in our work to reflect on God’s good ness. In the quietness of the moment, I can hear Him reminding us to personally reach out to those in need and to demonstrate the selfsacrificing love He showed to us and we’ve seen lately in so many Americans.
May God Bless You,
Mike Sanders - CAP President
The Mountain Spirit\s published fourtimes a year. The annual subscription price is $8.00. Subscriptions and other correspondence should be sent to The Mountain Spirit, Christian Appalachian Project, 322 Crab Orchard Street, Lancaster, KY 40446. Copyright, 2001, The Christian Appalachian Project, Inc. All rights reserved. Member, Catholic Press Association. The Christian Appalachian Project is a non-profit Christian service organization operating throughout Appalachia. The project operates on the philosophy that helping people help themselves is the best approach to Appalachian poverty.The Christian Appalachian Project is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization and is qualified to receive tax deductible contributions.
A summary of the registration and financial documents filed by this organization can be obtained by contacting: in Maryland, for the cost of copies and postage, the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401; in Virginia, State Division of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23209; in Washington, residents can call the Secretary of State toll-free within the state at 800-332-4483; In Mississippi, by calling the Secretary of State's office at 888-236-6167; IN NEW YORK, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, CHARITIES BUREAU, 120 BROADWAY, NEWYORK, NY 10271; IN NEW JERSEY,THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING 973-504-6215; IN PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF STATE BY CALLING TOLL-FREE W ITHINTHE STATE, 800-732-0999; IN WEST VIRGINIA, SECRETARY OF STATE, STATE CAPITOL, CHARLESTON, WV 25305; IN FLORIDA, THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE AT 800435-7352; IN NORTH CAROLINA, FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND A COPY OFTHE LICENSE ARE AVAILABLE FROMTHE STATE SOLICITA TION LICENSING BRANCH AT 1-888-830-4989, OR OUTSIDETHE STATE AT 919-807-2214; or by writing to Christian Appalachian Project, 322 Crab Orchard Street, Lancaster, KY 40446. Our license number in Michigan is MICS 9933. Registration with any of the above government agencies does not imply endorsement by the state.
T he M ountain S pirit!
by richard ginn
chaplain's corner
Don’t Give up!
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not as effective as we would like, because All too often I’m afraid, we are we just quit. We begin thinking that it’s a not persistent in our prayers. fixed horse race or God’s gonna do, what In the Gospel of Luke chapter 18, is a parable of Jesus that shows us God’s gonna do - so why should we waste the importance of not giving up on our our time. But, someone said, we need to PUSH our prayers: Pray-Until-Somethingprayers. Jesus taught us when we Happens! Be Persistent with the important pray it should be to get God’s will issues in life! done on earth, not getting our will Paul Harvey told the story recently done in heaven (Luke 11:2). on his daily radio program about the 3If you were rating your prayer year-old boy who went grocery shopping life, on a scale of 1 -10, where would with his mother. Before going into the you rate yourself? You remember the words of Paul in store she told him, “Now you’re not Ephesians 6:18 going to get any “praying always with all prayer...” chocolate chip Again the cookies, so don’t even ask.” She put him up words of Paul “Pray without in the cart and he sat ceasing.” And in the little child’s seat the words of while she wheeled Samuel in 1 down the aisles. He Samuel 12:23 was doing just fine “God forbid that I until they came to the should sin cookie section. He against the Lord saw the chocolate in ceasing to pray chip cookies and he for you.” stood up in the seat The most and said, “Mom, can I encouraging have some chocolate Richard Ginn, CAP Chaplain statement, chip cookies?” She concerning the said, “I told you not need to be persistent with our prayers even to ask. You’re not going to get any comes from Jesus in Luke 18:2-7 “He at all.” So he sat down. said: “In a certain town there was a They continued down the aisles, judge who neither feared God nor but in their search for certain items they cared about men. And there was a ended up back in the cookie aisle. widow in that town who kept coming “Mom, can I please have some choco to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice late chip cookies?” She said, “I told against my adversary.’ you that you can’t have any. Now sit “For some time he refused. down and be quiet.” But finally he said to himself, ‘Even Finally, they were approaching the though I don’t fear God or care about checkout lane. The little boy sensed that men, yet because this widow keeps this might be his last chance. So just bothering me, I will see that she gets before they got to the line, he stood up on the seat of the cart and shouted in his justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming!” loudest voice, “In the name of Jesus, may I And the Lord said, “Listen to have some chocolate chip cookies?” what the unjust judge says. And will And everybody round about just not God bring about justice for his laughed. Some even applauded. And, due to the generosity of the other shoppers, chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?” (NIV) the little boy and his mother left with 23 Perhaps our prayers at times are boxes of chocolate chip cookies.
CAP celebrates a new location for headquarters
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| either heat nor high water could stop the groundbreaking celebration CAP hosted on July 22nd in Hagerhill, Kentucky, home of the future CAP headquarters. The ceremony, which had been planned and anticipated all summer, brought CAP one step closer to the realization of plans to move the organization toward the more impoverished areas of Eastern Kentucky. Making for a pretty perfect day, Heaven held off thunderstorms and blew in a few breezes to cool soaring temperatures for the more than 200 employees, volunteers, officials and guests who came to commemorate the breaking of ground for the new headquarters building. Guests included several local and state officials, who kept cool under a
big tent, set up for displaying CAP’s many programs and services. CAP employees and volunteers manned the exhibition booths and mingled with guests throughout the day. Vice President and emcee Ben Prewitt got the ceremony under way around 11 a.m. with opening remarks. CAP Chaplain, Richard Ginn then offered a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s blessing on the organization. CAP President Mike Sanders delivered a moving speech, giving glory to God for all of the organization’s accomplishments. Father Ralph Beiting, founder of CAP, spoke of the sweat equity that has been invested over the years and chal lenged the audience to keep trusting in God for direction and keep working hard to meet the needs in Appalachia. Other keynote speakers spoke of CAP’s accomplishments and the strong resolve of the people of Appalachia. They included Ann
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Latta, Secretary of Tourism, Commonwealth of Kentucky; Robert Duncan, President/ CEO of Inez Bank and CAP Board Member; Bob Hutchison, Owner/ Operator of McDonald’s and CAP Board Member; Tucker Daniel, Johnson County Judge-Executive; and Robin Cooper, Paintsville Mayor. Stella Parton, CAP National Spokesperson, also took time to attend the ceremony and be a featured speaker. She com mented on the pleasure of meeting CAP Founder, Father Beiting, and gave praise for CAP’s work in Appalachia. Following the speaking, officials gathered to commence the groundbreaking. Several shovels got in on the earthmoving action, which happened right on the sight of the future headquarters building.
CAP President Mike Sanders (photo submitted by Karen E. Shultz)
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Building Details After announcing plans in 2000 to move headquarters, the small Eastern Kentucky town of Hagerhill was decided on as a good place for the new building. The location is central to many CAP programs and adjacent to the existing warehouse and office building in CAP’s Hagerhill complex. The new multi-purpose headquarters to be built there will be a 20,000 square foot unit. It is due to be constructed within a year, and will serve many func tions, both for CAP and the commu nity at large. In addition to housing administrative and program offices, the building will offer an Appalachian museum, theatre and chapel. The museum will feature CAP’s own storied history along with the history of the Appalachian region and its people. Audiences will be treated to interactive displays that will reflect the wonderfully rich Appalachian culture that abounds in Eastern Kentucky. The planned theatre CAP Founder Father Ralph W. Beiting and will be a viable means of International Entertainer and National CAP playing local documenta Spokesperson Stella Parton (Photo submitted ries as well as featuring by Karen E. Shultz) Appalachian artists and local productions. The theatre will also be used to educate groups from Afterward, lunch various schools and churches on the intrinsic value of was provided for being a part of a culture as rich as that of Appalachia. all attendees in The building will also offer an interdenominational the Operation chapel that will be used by CAP employees during daily Sharing ware prayer service, and will be open to the public as well as house. area churches to use for special prayer services. The celebra According to Ben Prewitt, Vice President of Planned tion then moved and Major Giving/Events/Communications, over half from the the area of the new headquarters will be for community groundbreaking to the Ramada Inn use, a positive step for both CAP and the surrounding communities. in Paintsville “The museum will be a focal point for tourists who where guests wish to re-discover Appalachia’s rich heritage,” he anticipated Stella Parton’s evening said. “The theatre will serve as an educational facility for students.. .and the interdenominational chapel will concert and the be of use for church groups and will be available for debut of the interdenominational community religious services like video she National Day of Prayer. We at CAP are thrilled to be produced with able to offer something like this to our community.” CAP.
T he M ountain S pirit
forward to our growth deeper into Appalachia.”
A Shining Star The first time you hear her sing, you think you’ve died and gone to heaven. As Stella Parton was belting out beautiful rendi tions of old gospel melodies for her 3:00 p.m. sound check it became apparent this shining star was sent from heaven to CAP. The multi-talented singersongwriter and her band, Twice Robin, performed a beautiful evening concert in the atrium of the Ramada Inn in Paintsville to complete the all day celebration for the Christian Appalachian Project. Performing for a crowd of nearly 300, Stella sang top hits such as “I Want To Hold You In My Dreams” and “Wayfaring Stranger”. The highlight of the night was the debut of her video, “Up In The Holler” which was produced in partnership with CAP and featured CAP employees and participants. Also, CAP President Mike Sanders Genesis CFDC booth at Groundbreaking Ceremony. Pictured are Jim Kammerer, Aundria Costellow and Cara Rambusch (Photo submitted by Karen E. Shultz) CAP President Mike Sanders echoed this sentiment, stating that the facility will mean nothing short of a blessing for CAP and the local community. “We feel this facility will be used to educate, strengthen spirituality and bring about awareness of the strength of the Appalachian people. Our offices there will also be a great service to the commu nity. I do feel it will be a positive eco nomic factor in the area. This is a huge change for this organization, but we feel it is a very positive change. We look Well wishers peruse the booths featuring various CAP programs (Photo by Rodney Miracle) officially announced Stella as a National Spokesper son for CAP, while Chaplain Richard Ginn delivered a stirring sermon before the concert. Stella used her presence to promote CAP’s programs and services during the concert, and she stayed several hours afterward to sign autographs for guests on videos, CD’s and T-shirts. All of the proceeds for the “Up In The Holler” merchandise were donated to CAP.
Angel Among Us A luncheon was held following the ceremony at the Operation Sharing Warehouse in Hagerhill (Photo by Rodney Miracle)
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The next day, Stella traveled to Carrollton, Ken tucky to continue her “Up In The Holler” tour with CAP. As if on cue, the heavens opened up, and the
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rain came. Just as it looked like the openair concert would be cancelled, Stella declared that prayer could change the circumstance. She insisted her entou rage commence to holding hands for an old-fashioned, circle prayer meeting right in front of their hotel. Curious onlookers must have been believers that night, as just in time for the show, the rain dried up. Concert-goers were treated to the beautiful backdrop of the Ohio River for the 7 p.m. concert in
Stella Parton and her band, Twice Robin, at the video debut of “Up in the Holler” at Ramada Inn in Paintsville, Ky. (Photo by Lena Basha, Floyd County Times)
the pavilion at Point Park. The sun seemed to dance uninhibited on the water, displaying its delight in sharing a moment on stage with Stella. Dressed from head to toe in white apparel, she spoke to the audience of CAP’s purpose and its mission of giving “a hand up, not a hand out.” She mentioned her earlier prayer as she directed their attention to the awe-inspiring sunset. She thanked God for answering her petition. Then, as though answering back with His approval, the setting sun shone on her face illuminating her golden hair. For a moment, she could’ve been an angel. Certainly, the song came to mind.
‘I believe there are angels among us... they come to you and m e... to show us how to live, to teach us how to give, to guide us with a light of love.’
Stella at Point Park in Carrollton, Ky. (Photo courtesy «/Carrollton News-Democrat)
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T he M o u n t a in S pirit
“Up In The Holler” VIDEO NOW AVAILABLE Stella Parton/ChristianAppalachian Project Nominated as one of the top 5 CCMA videos of the year “I know the strength o f the Appalachian people. I grew up in the same circumstances. I also know that given the chance each o f G od’s children can rise above their circumstances.”
“It’s a God Thing” . That is how Stella Parton describes her relationship with the Christian Appalachian Project. Stella, grew up in Appalachia and wanted to give something back to the region she loves. She sees her partnership with CAP as a way to do that. “When I visited the programs, I fell in love with the employees, volunteers, and especially the participants.” On this project Stella gives of her voice and her music both gifts from God. Send the coupon below today and we will send you a copy of this exciting video “Up In The Holler”.
Up In The Holler / Filmed in Johnson County, Kentucky is available to you at no cost. Additional items available include the “Up In The Holler” CD by Stella Parton and the “Up In The Holler” Tour T-Shirt. The T-Shirt is white with blue lettering. A donation to help offset the cost of the video, CD or T-shirt, shipping and handling is appreciated.
Yes, I want to provide a hand up, not a hand out. I have enclosed a gift of: $. (to offset the cost o f production, shipping and handling)
Up In The Holler Video ($5.00 suggested donation) Up In The Holler CD ($10.00 suggested donation) Up In The Holler T-Shirt ($5.00 suggested donation) ___Medium___ Large___X-Large___2-X Please send more information about CAP’S work. Send information on other resources available. Name Address City/St. Phone Please make checks payable and mail to: Christian Appalachian Project 322 Crab Orchard Street Visit our website at: www.chrisapp.org Lancaster, KY 40446 Any questions? You may contact us at 1-800-955-3470
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Photo courtesy of Johnny
On June 2nd of this year, Rodney Miracle handled mailings for CAP. At the time, the celebrated 25 years as a CAP employee. This Lettershop was housed in a garage behind the milestone puts him in the company of only a Catholic Church in Lancaster. From there he went handful of current employees who have been with to Premium Production for two years, then back to the organization for 25 years or longer. The elite the Lettershop as the manager in 1988. He has also “over 25” club is literally the living history of CAP. worked in Direct Mail Fundraising over the years. It includes (drum roll, please) Lucy Ballew, Data His experience in different departments has Entry, Kathleen Kluesner, Grants, Kathleen Leavell, given him expertise that is valuable to CAP. His Volunteer Department, Mary Leavell, Data Entry, current position is in the Planned and Major Giving Terry Lucas, Planned and Major Giving, Moe Department, where he has been since 2000. There Mercier, Human Services, Gwen he calls on donors and assists in Newcomb, Data Entry and Donnie event planning and development. Underwood, Facility Maintenance. All of Rodney’s positions with Arlie Simpson is close on their heels CAP have been located in Lancaster, with 24 years and counting. Kentucky, not far from his home. He In a day when the average person resides on a small farm with his wife, changes jobs over five times in their Denise, and one son, Hunter. In his career, being dedicated for 25 years to off time, he raises goats for pleasure a non-profit is something to celebrate. and profit. In his quiet, unassuming way, Rodney Rodney said he has enjoyed his would’ve let the occasion slip by career with the Christian Appala unnoticed, but for a little birdie who chian Project and has stayed over “let the cat out of the bag.” the years because of the “Christian When reminiscing about those aspect to the work and the nature of “good ole days” Rodney remarked helping other people.” “That that when he first joined CAP in makes the work meaningful,” he Stella Parton and Rodney’s 1977, he was one of only 30 employ son, Hunter (Photo by ees. His first job was in the Continued on page 31 Jennifer Lavender) Lettershop where he prepared and
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T he M ountain S pirit
around the project
Youth and Teens enjoy year-end picnic Youth and teens from Marrowbone, WVa., and Louisa, Ky., attended the year-end picnic held at Boone’s Landing. Youth and teens were treated to a picnic lunch, as well as swimming and canoe ing as a reward for Justin Davis year-long participation in Youth Worker the afterschool program. While the teen center’s workers address a host
of issues that face today’s youth, a primary focus the center chooses to zero in on is leadership, which is built through study, service and fellowship. “The program is great in that it helps students with meeting high school service requirements. But it also shows them what volunteerism is like,” says Justin Davis, Youth Worker. “We feel we give students every opportunity to be a leader in the group, plus lots of opportunities to make decisions, like working for WorkFest.”
DON’T ROCK THE BOAT! Pictured above, enjoying the calm waters at Boone’s Landing are Tiffany Copley, Tasha Copley and Brittney Hodge, all from the small community of Marrowbone in Kermit, W.Va. (Photo by Carla Davis)
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around the project
Wayland JobStart gives to 3-year-old cancer victim When illness strikes, it is always tragic. But it is most tragic when it attacks a child. John Brandon Turner of Martin, went to the hospital for a tonsillectomy three weeks ago. When the doctors began the proce dure, they discov ered the deadly disease of cancer in young John’s throat. He was three years old. When JobStart program manager Sheila Patton learned about her young ELLA PRYOR of Dema, Ky., helps with the fundraising yard sale, friend’s illness, she all proceeds of which went to the family of John Brandon Turner, felt she had to do 3, of Martin, Ky., who was diagnosed with cancer in mid-June. something. Patton, (photo by Carla Davis) who teaches adults how to hone skills that are job-worthy, decided to involve her students. “[The students] are getting a As a class, the participants of JobStart decided to have lot out of this because they get to a community yard sale, one in which everyone could be give back to their community,” said involved by either donating items, working, or buying Patton, who managed to coordinate items. the event in about four days. “This Immediately students began collecting donated wasn’t a class assignment. They items from friends, neighbors, everyone. Not only did were very much into this.” they collect items from others, but most all of the The one-day event was held JobStart participants donated items from their own at the Wayland Community Center closets as well. Margie Howard, a community volunteer, in the tiny town of Wayland, donated items to the cause as well as weathered the Kentucky. All proceeds, which heat to ensure the goods sold. Items were even totaled close to $400, were given to donated by local agencies such as Dema Fire Depart the family of John, who is hospital ment, the Big S Market, Salt Lick Community Church ized at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and employees of the Christian Appalachian Project in Memphis, Tenn., for traveling (CAP). expenses.
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around the project
Seven children graduate from Genesis CFDC
READY FOR SCHOOL is what these children are. Pictured from left to right are Elizabeth Leedy, Alex Prince, Justin Courtney, Cody Burnette, Mikayla Workman, Bethany Bartlett and Daniel Robertson. The seven children are the 2002 graduates from the Genesis Child and Family Development Center located in Louisa, Ky. (Photo submitted by Brenda Wireman) Seven children recently graduated from Genesis Child and Family Develop ment Center in Louisa, Ky. during a ceremony held at St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Graduating from the center that began operations in 2000 are: Bethany Bartlett of Louisa; Cody Burnette of Fort Gay, W. Va.; Justin Courtney of Louisa; Elizabeth Leedy of Louisa; Alex Prince of Louisa; Daniel Robertson of Fort Gay; and Mikayla Workman of Louisa. The ceremony was composed of a welcoming/introduction speech, given by Genesis program manager Brenda Wireman, followed by an invocation by
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Jim Kammerer, Genesis cook and volunteer of the Christian Appalachian Project (CAP). Following the invocation, CAP Chaplain Richard Ginn delivered a powerful speech, challenging parents to make time for the most precious of possessions - children. Next, Brenda Wireman presented each graduate with a beautifully crafted diploma and a tote bag full of school supplies for the fall, on which each child’s name was stitched. Following the presentation, Genesis employees Betty Bartlett, Aundria Costellow and Wrendi Prince sang the song “Always a Child,” much to the audience’s delight. To close the program, CAP volunteer David Costellow gave the benediction.
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around the project 14
CAP Outreach partners with Feed the Children month. Depending Over 10 on whether there is a tons of disaster abroad such nonperish as hurricane, flood able food ing or forest fires, items were the food banks are delivered by often depleted. Mountain Which is why Vision, an programs such as Ohio-based Christian Appala relief agency, chian Project, to the Chris Mountain Vision and tian Appala Feed the Children are chian Project such a blessing to all (CAP) office the folks they serve. in Hagerhill in “I can’t thank July. The food, TAMMY CAYNOR, Outreach Caseworkerfor Louisa, designated for Ky., loads food into a participant’s vehicle (photo you enough for this,” said recipient Margie by Carla Davis) Lawrence VanHorne of Louisa. County, was “There is so much food here; I ’ll have a hard time donated by Feed the Children, a eating it all!” non-profit Christian organization Several caseworkers stated that while with a mission to provide essen distributing the food was physically demanding, tials such as food, clothing and the hard work was worth it when they saw first medicine to needy families. hand the expressions of thanks and relief on the The food was distributed out recipients’ faces. of the CAP Outreach office in Louisa, where more than 100 low-income families received literally carloads of the goods. Often times, low-income families must rely on food stamps to feed their families, but some times the designated allotment of stamps just are not enough to last until the following month. Food banks and God’s Pantry are helpful alternatives when the stamps run OVER TEN TONS of nonperishable food were delivered in Hagerhill to be distrib uted in Louisa, Ky. Pictured are, from left to right, Molly McKinley, Mingo County, out, but they only West Virginia Caseworker; and Angela Ehms and Brenda Crum, both Caseworkers allow one visit per for Floyd County, Kentucky. (photo by Carla Davis)
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around the project NEARLY THREE TONS o f fire safety equipment were donated by Operation Sharing, a program o f the Christian Appalachian Project (CAP). One o f the recipient organizations, Kermit Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, is pictured above. Pictured at front, from left to right is Josh Hunt; Timmy Dale Preece, Assistant Kermit Fire Chief; and William Hunt; second row, from left to right is Johnny Maynard, Kermit Chief o f Police; Lonnie Evans, Lieutenant, Kermit Police Department; Wilburn “Wig” Preece, Kermit Fire Chief; Johnny Linville, M ayor of Kermit; Jerry Mounts, Williamson Fire Chief; and Eugene Brewer. (photo by Carla D avis)
Operation Sharing delivers safety gear to local fire crews Nearly three tons of safety and disaster equipment w ere d o n ated by Operation Sharing, a program of the C hristian A ppala chian Project (CAP) and given to the volunteer fire de partment in Kermit, West Virginia. Do n ated item s in cluded hazardous sp ill k its, safety
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vests, heavy raingear and other specialized safety equipment. To Kermit mayor Johnny Linville, who helped unload the gear, the donation was a w el comed one. “This is very nice,” he said. “It will come in very handy in the near future, I ’m sure.” In addition to Kermit, two other volunteer fire departments re ceived a truckload of similar gear: the Phelps, Kentucky, volunteer fire department and the fire department located in Hurley, Virginia.
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BREAKING GROUND FOR THE NEW HEADQUARTERS are from left to right, Jack Hamm, Services; James Dingus, CAP Board Member; Sara Combs, CAP Board Member; Robin C O’Daniel, CAP Board Member; Father Ralph W. Beiting, CAP Founder; Stella Parton, CAP S| Johnson County Judge-Executive; Sue Sword, Vice-President of Gifts in Kind/Direct Response: Board Member; and Ben Prewitt, Vice-President of Planned and Major Giving/Events/Commu
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freasurer; Bob Boduch, Director of Human Resources; Moe Mercier, Vice-President of Human ioper, Paintsville Mayor; Ann Latta, Secretary of Tourism, Commonwealth of Kentucky; Jerry okesperson and International Entertainer; Mike Sanders, CAP President/CEO; Tucker Daniel, Robert Duncan, CAP Board Member; Bob Hutchison, CAP Board Member; Ginny Ramsey, CAP ¡¡cations. (Photo by Jennifer Lavender)
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Many times, people with disabilities, both physical and mental, are left with few options. Either they must be dependent on loved ones for their daily care and living needs, or they are left to fend for them selves, without a helping hand to guide them toward independence and a proactive lifestyle. CAPRICE, (Christian Appalachian Project Re sources for Independence in Community and Employment) is a program designed to help with these and other issues faced by adults with disabili-
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ties. Services include support to individuals ages 16 and up in areas of advocacy, life skills, volunteering and employment. Five years ago, the South eastern Kentucky People Who Care Advocacy Group was co founded. The inspiration for the group is attributed to one of the founders, Joe Trammell of McCreary County. As a partici pant in the CAPRICE program, Joe had attended a legislative breakfast in Frankfort with the program and some of its partici pants. He returned, expressing a desire to CAPRICE staff that he wanted to make a difference
and advocate. Throughout the past five years, the group has met on a monthly basis. They have learned and continue to learn about the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), parlia mentary procedure and the necessity of self-advocacy or speaking up when group decisions are made. Officers that are elected for two year terms govern the group. The officers also meet on a monthly basis to learn about leadership, planning and decision-m aking abilities. The group has been
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actively involved in ADA rallies and trainings; building accessibility accommodations by acknowledging businesses in various comm unities for their efforts; and in the year 2000, assisted with and participated in the activities for the state’s tenth anniver sary celebration of the ADA. Currently, the group is considering taking part in a statewide advocacy initiative. All funds are generated through “whatever you can afford” monthly dues and fundraising. All fundraising is initiated and implemented by the members of the group with minimal assistance from CAPRICE staff. Recently, a small group of members who participate in the volunteer component of CAPRICE were supported by the group in a letter writing campaign to promote a volunteer site that, due to lack of funding, was to be closed. It is just this proactive attitude that PAM ROARK-GLISSON, Director and Founder of the ADA Action Network of CAPRICE program manager Kentucky, gave American flag lapel pins to all officers of the advocacy group. Gloria Jordan likes to see. The flag is a symbol of independence and freedom, two ideals held in high “This is definitely esteem by the Southeastern Kentucky People Who Care Advocacy Group. Joe something that shows Trammell, left, and Denise King, middle right, both of McCreary County, growth in the members,” Kentucky, look on as Wanda Scalf receives her pin. FAR LEFT: Joe Trammell, she said. “They are Co-founder of the Southeastern Kentucky People Who Care Advocacy Group, reaching out on behalf of presents Knox County, Kentucky resident and Chairperson of the group, Elvis others instead of thinking Smallwood, with the first Founder’s Award. of self.” In celebration of five years of growth and to strengthen one another and activity, group members held a handmade banner that featured in turn, you are all helping to the Southeastern Kentucky banquet June 14th at the lift up the people of your People Who Care Advocacy elegant Cumberland Inn in community.” Group logo. Letters of W illiamsburg, Kentucky. The Prior to the closing of acknowledgem ent and congratu banquet hosted speakers such the program, group member lations were read from Moe as: Reverend Glen Shumate; and chairperson Elvis Mercier, Christian Appalachian Pamela Roark-Glisson, director Smallwoord of Barbourville Project (CAP) vice-president; and founder of the ADA was presented with the first Senator David W illiams and Action Network of Kentucky; Founder’s Award. Smallwood Congressman Hal Rogers. and Reverend Tim Estes, humbly accepted the award Congressman Rogers expressed m inister of Warsaw Baptist saying, “I guess I ’ve been a pride in the group’s accom plish Church in Warsaw, Kentucky. good advocate; I ’ve been ments and said, During the program, the doing a good jo b .” “Your efforts have helped group was presented with a
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i
ind photos b y C aria Davis
Genesis earns three stars In June, Governor Paul Patton visited the Genesis Child and Family Development Center in Louisa, Kentucky. As he cruised the highways and byways of his old stomping ground, his purpose for return ing to his hometown was one of seeing firsthand how the fruits of his labor on the STARS for KIDS initiative had affected those he’d grown up with.
Out of more than 400 daycare, early childhood devel opment centers and preschools, Genesis had gleaned a three-star ranking under the Stars for Kids point system. Only 62 others in the state of Kentucky had managed to achieve such a ranking. One to four stars are awarded for proficiency in five areas: student/teacher ratio; curriculum; training; regulatory
compliance and personnel. In order to obtain a three-star rating, a center must have one staff per every eight children; must include written plans for family activities and involve ment, plus a written plan for improving the environment of the center and the three star ranking also requires extra education for staff members. “CAP understands the
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importance of eco nomic development ... and early child development,” said Patton during his visit to the center that began operations in February 2000. “As society changes, we have to change the way we care for our children. The environ ment of 100 years ago was based around the home. Since that time, we have learned that children still need that challenging yet safe environment that was a natural product of homes 75-100 years ago.” Genesis program manager Brenda Wireman feels the PICTURED ABOVE are from left to right, Moe Mercier, Vice President of Human ranking is due Services; Brenda Wireman, Genesis Child and Family Development Center Program largely to having a Manager; Mike Sanders, CAP President; and Sandi Knight, Assistant Director o f Human top-notch staff. Services. “[This ranking] shows that Wireman. “We can still imjob. I have an excellent staff, we’re doing a good job,” says prove, but we’re doing a good They’re punctual, which is important when you’re working with small chil dren, they’re dedicated and they’re all profes sionals.” The KIDS NOW initiative uses 25 percent of Kentucky’s Phase I tobacco settlement and funds various components to ensure healthy children with programs ranging from in-home visits for at-risk families to sub stance abuse programs for pregnant and postpartum GOVERNOR PATTON reads to the children at Genesis CFDC women.
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CAP transitions program to community Equipped with a new name and new owners, the care center here has been tugging at my heart strings for a former CAP Child and Family Development Center, now Kidz while,” she declared. Ingram, who is Morris’ daughter and co-owner of Zone opened its doors for business in July. Kidz Zone, which is located in Berea, Kentucky serves children ages six the center, is a junior at Eastern Kentucky University, majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies. She remembers weeks to 12 years with a multi-cultural curriculum called helping her mother with her in-home day care when she Roots and Wings. Local residents Jacqueline Morris and Crystal was younger. “That’s when I decided to work with special Ingram accepted the challenge of owning and operating the needs children. There aren’t many services available childcare center from the Christian Appalachian Project, which was looking to transition the program to the community. It is one of CAP’s goals to transi tion programs to the local community to be mn by the people who live there. This provides for continuation of the program and empowers the local community. The shift was a “match made in heaven” according to Morris, co-owner of the center. She and Ingram had been toiling with the idea of opening a day care when they noticed the vacant childcare building, located behind the Berea Attic, while on a shopping trip to the store. Crystal Ingram, Co-owner of Kidz Zone and daughter of Jacqui Morris (Photo by They were put in contact with Jennifer Lavender) CAP’s Vice President of Human Services, Moe Mercier, who was searching for someone in around here for these children,” she said. She and her the community to continue the services of the center. mother eventually plan to expand the center to serve The two parties formed a relationship, with Moe special needs children. helping Morris and Ingram to apply for non-profit status, They employ three Berea college students, two of and putting them in touch with help through Dr. Morris who are majoring in Child and Family Studies and the other Norfleet of Mountain Missions Development. in Theatre. With such in-house expertise they plan to “Moe has been wonderful to us,” Morris said. provide evening services for a “Parents Night Out,” a “We weren’t considering being a non-profit organization, “Family Fun Night” for fun and engaging family activities but Moe convinced us we could do it, and now, I wouldn’t and several other fun events for children. do it any other way. Why would you want to make a profit They are also getting the community involved off of people?” in the effort. A Board of Directors has been assembled Morris, who hails from North Carolina, is a former and monthly parent meetings are held to discuss ideas owner of an in-home day care and a former Vice President of for community involvement. Marketing and Sales. She has 14 years of experience in CAP is proud of this successful transition and childcare. will continue to keep in close contact with Kidz Zone to Since relocating to the area five years ago she has offer support and encouragement along the way. thought about starting her own daycare. “Opening a child
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From Christian Appalachian Project’s - Planned Giving
Your Will W on't Work Well When... It’s Out-of-Date How old is your will? Have you reviewed it in the last three years? If not, chances are it could use some attention. A number of personal factors can affect your will — things like changes in income, employment, family size or marital status. External factors such as new federal or state laws can also require the revision of your will. Have any of the following things occurred in the last few years? __Move to another state __New business venture __Children less dependent __Death in family __Serious illness in family __Marriage or divorce __Birth of child __Executor can’t serve __Trustee can’t serve
__Desire to change guardian __More grandchildren __Change in giving interests __Job promotion __Purchase of life insurance __New out-of-state property __Purchase of home __More property in joint names __Major change in finances
It’s Legally Invalid. Your will can contain all the information you think you want, and not be worth the paper it’s written on. This is more likely to be true if your will is old, or if you tried to cut corners by using generic forms from a stationery store. A will can be invalid if it is unsigned or wit nessed improperly. There’s just no substitute for having a competent attorney involved. In the short run, it may cost you a bit more, but it will certainly provide greater peace of mind and possibly deliver your survivors from a nightmare. It Conflicts With Other Plans. Your will should be coordinated with your other estate transfer documents. For example, insurance proceeds and brokerage accounts pass outside the will to the named beneficiaries. Pension funds are also distributed outside the will. A will that truly works well will take all of these other assets into consider ation. It Fails to Fulfill Your Desires. Your will should accomplish exactly what you want. Do you want your children to receive their inheritance all at once, or at various intervals? Do you want your charitable gifts to be used for unrestricted purposes, or do you want to earmark the funds to meet specific needs? Do you want to continue to support the work of the Christian Appalachian Project and give a percentage of your estate, or a set amount?
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We at the Christian Appalachian Project want you and your loved ones to be protected with a good, up-to-date estate plan. We also want to remind you that an estate gift to the Christian Appalachian Project can make a positive statement to your family and friends regarding your priorities...as well as make a tremendous differ ence in our future work. Perhaps you didn’t know all the options when you signed your will. Later, you discovered other ways to make your bequests. You may feel dissatisfied with your will. It may work as a legal document, but fail to work well as the expression of your true desires. Is it time to redo your will? If so, we urge you to make an appointment with your attorney as soon as possible. You should be satisfied and confident about your estate plan. Christian Appalachian Project’s planned giving staff offers complimentary informational brochures that include helpful information about making a will. It also contains material on basic estate planning and ways you can use planned giving techniques to benefit your charitable interests, as well as yourself. Please complete the coupon below and send to:
Christian Appalachian Project
Planned Giving Department 322 Crab Orchard St. Lancaster, KY 40446-0001 Or call us for information at 1-800-955-3470 (Please complete and return this reply form.) Dear Friends at Christian Appalachian Project: ___Please send me free literature about making a will. ___Please contact me about a personal visit or other planned giving opportunities. ___I have already provided a bequest for CAP in my will. ___Please send me information about CAP’S Charitable Gift Annuity Name:_________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________ City:___________________________________ State:___ Zip:_________________ Phone:_____________________
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It’s a God thing, and from the beginning it has been so. Divine intervention brought CAP Vice President Ben Prewitt and international talent Stella Parton together at a Christian Country Music Awards show late last year. Both were scheduled to present awards with other people, but somehow ended up presenting together. While chatting, Stella mentioned she felt God calling her to minister to her “own people.” When Ben started telling her about the Christian
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Appalachian Project she was immediately excited about the possibilities. Upon departing, Ben com mented about the irony of the presentation mix-up to which Stella poignantly replied, “It’s a God thing.” That encounter, as mentioned in the last issue of The Mountain Spirit, brought Stella to CAP in the early part of the year to tour the programs. She was impressed with what she saw and decided she wanted to do something to help.
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Children of Genesis CFDC in Louisa, Ky. were featured in the video Having grown up in Appalachia, she is familiar with some of the hardships that can be associated with poverty. In her own words—“.. .1 know the strength of the Appalachian people, I grew up in the same circum stances, I, also know that given the opportunity, each of God’s children can rise above it...” Embracing the mission of the Christian Appalachian Project, it seemed fitting for her to partner with CAP to film the video of her hit single, “Up In The Holler” from her Appalachian Blues CD. Proving the aphorism Appalachian roots run deep, the song she wrote recalls childhood memories in Appalachia. She insisted upon returning to her roots for the June filming, rather than to film on a staged set in Nashville. She further authenticated the video by spotlighting several CAP programs and personnel as extras in the video. Children from Genesis Child and Family Develop ment Center were featured along with housing partici pant Arlene Blair. Blair, 77, agreed to allow fdm crews to shoot the video on her picturesque 15-acre farm in Oil Springs, Kentucky (Johnson County) which is about 15 miles away from CAP offices in Hagerhill. Blair’s home place, a dilapidated twostory frame house, was demolished during the fdming by housing crewmembers. The old home is to be replaced by CAP Stella Parton and Arlene Blair pause for the cameras
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a new’ two~ bedroom, ranch-
style home, the construction of which is set to begin in October. The location helped to make the video “real” and was perfect for Parton’s goal of bringing Appala chia to life through her songs thus inspiring others from the area to pursue their dreams. “I am trying to recapture the rich culture of Appalachia in my songs,” said Parton. Ben Prewitt added that everything in the production of the video was real and there was no Hollywood associated with it. While authenticity remained in the forefront throughout production, the main goal of the project was philanthropy. Stella’s agents agreed to donate all proceeds from the video to CAP, one of the many organizations Stella has promoted. “I’ve been really blessed and I’m trying to give something back,” declared Stella, who has many charitable causes to her credit. She has served on the board of the Domestic Violence Intervention Center in Nashville, been a spokesperson for Mothers Against Drunk Drivers and is involved with the Association for Retarded Citizens job program. Michael Shortt and Tandem Productions directed the video, which is three and a half minutes long and includes a public service announcement for CAP after the song. To the delight of many locals, Stella held a concert and debuted the video of “Up In The Stella takes a break from Holler” on July 22nd, after filming on location in Oil CAP’s groundbreaking Springs, Ky. ceremonies in Hagerhill. The concert was held at the Carriage House Ramada Inn in Paintsville, Kentucky close to where the video was shot. The multi-talented Stella has other credits to her account aside from her Appalachian music singing and song-writing abilities. She has also starred on Broadway, has several acting performances under her belt, both on television and film and has authored several cookbooks.
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V V h ftt /
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S t ortj and
car la savLs Knowing what it takes. It can mean the difference between success and failure, happiness and despair. It could be said to be the magic ingredient between getting the job done and waiting for something to happen.
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fter Ruth (Howard) Shepherd moved from Carrollton, Ohio, to Magoffin County 30 years ago, she made a commitment to her family. Her husband, Bennie, was diagnosed with Polio as an infant, a diagnosis that would later be found to be Cerebral Palsy. In addition to his care, Ruth had the added responsibility of raising three daughters: Delilah, Lisa and Wonnie. Their daily care meant one thing: Ruth would be a stayat-home mother and caregiver to her disabled husband. There was neither time nor energy for working in a job outside the home. But in 1985 Ruth did find time to return to highschool and earn a GED. As a result, in 1990 Ruth found freedom that she’d never experienced before. Her children were nearly grown and household demands became more manageable. With this newfound freedom, Ruth chose to return to school full-time to pursue a degree in nursing. Nursing gave Ruth an opportunity to nurture, something she had done for a lifetime. Ruth remembers a time when her middle daughter, Lisa, was hospitalized due to juvenile diabetes. In the next bed lay a lady whose name escapes Ruth now, but whose demeanor during illness was wellremembered. “She wouldn’t eat,” said Ruth, with a mother-like sense of concern. “I’m the only one in the whole hospital who could get her to eat. The hospital staff thought I was one of her family members.” But nursing, while reward ing, would be a goal that would only last a short while. Three weeks after Ruth began attending classes, her academic advisor, a nurse, died from a heart attack. Ruth took this as a sign and decided to fall back on an old love she had possessed since she was a small child - teaching. That following semester, Ruth decided to delve into that lifelong passion and enrolled at Prestonsburg Community College (PCC). The classes were tough, especially during those semesters when scheduling conflicts
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required Ruth to attend back-toback blocks of instruction. One semester, Ruth enrolled in 21 full credit hours of classes, a feat that was well beyond a full load. “I lost 40 pounds that semester!” says Ruth, laughing.
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“Whenever I’d have classes back to back, I’d just grab some crackers and a pop. That’s all I had time for!” Finally, in 1993, Ruth gradu ated from PCC with an associates degree. But for Ruth, the most powerful rite of passage was yet to come. The day after graduation, Ruth attended the women’s conference, an annual event held at Camp Shawnee and sponsored by CAP Outreach. During her weeklong stay, Ruth discovered not only did she need the various friend ships she had made, but she also needed God. “That’s where I got saved,” Ruth says introspectively. “At first I ran from these ladies who were trying to talk to me about God. But I knew that the things they were telling me were true.” During the conference, Ruth also discovered that Partners, a program of CAP Outreach, could help with expenses accrued while she attended school, such as tuition, books, car repairs and other necessities. Just by participating in Partners, Ruth was able to receive help in purchasing textbooks and repairs for her car. From that point on, Ruth had
a new focus in life. She attended classes with new energy and a positive outlook. And it was this outlook that helped her bear the burden when tragedy struck that year. “My Dad died in ’97 and I had to deal with that,” she says. “My baby sister (Brenda Prater) took it pretty rough because she was the one who found him. But he was a preacher, so I knew where he was going.” Ruth claims that before she got saved, she worked toward her goals to please her father. But after she sealed the relationship between herself and God by baptism, she focused all her energies toward satisfying God. By the following year, Ruth had managed, through taking classes day and night, both fulland part-time, to earn a Bachelor’s degree in middle grade education with an emphasis in social studies and English from Morehead State University. On top of the world, Ruth was ready to teach youngsters how to apply themselves and learn just as she did. That year, she began substitute teaching for Magoffin County schools. Ruth, thinking that the position would only be tempo rary, was content to get her feet wet by teaching students of all ages. Four years later, however, Ruth was still substituting. While the hours had once been full-time or close to full-time, a large number of teachers had retired, pushing Ruth’s status as a substitute close to the bottom. Then in May, Ruth heard through a friend that the Adult Education program in Magoffin County, Kentucky, needed to fill a position for an adult education teacher. Ruth decided to apply and was hired June 3. “When I got the call that I got the job I jumped [six inches] off the floor,” Ruth says excitedly. “I was yelling ‘praise the Lord, praise the Lord.’ Bennie (Ruth’s husband) asked me, ‘what’s wrong?’ I told
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ABOVE: Campers line up to register at Camp Andrew Jackson. Seated are Matt Krupp, Camp Manager, and Amy Stokdyke, Camp Coordinator. RIGHT: Tiffany Tyree, of McKee, Ky. (seated) makes a name badge for camper Ashley Rhode of Richmond. BELOW: A camper enjoys the pool at Camp Shawnee in Endicott, Ky. (Photos by Jennifer Lavender.)
CAP
Camps Heat Up Summer Goodbye — Gameboys, Nintendo’s, TV remotes and mice (the computer kind). Hello — lakes, paddleboats, remote cabins in the woods and mice (the real kind). Beginning in June, over 1,200 local boys and girls traded in their schoolbooks for some “hands on”
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summer fun and learning. Campers enjoyed experi ences such as swimming, canoeing, hiking, arts and crafts, team sports, drama, bible studies and charac ter building games and lessons. Their anxiously anticipated camp adventure became a reality thanks to CAP’s four camps for kids.
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ABOVE: Jeremiah Atkinson, R.J. Miller and Ernest Atkinson enjoy a bird’s eye view at Camp A. J. RIGHT: Campers cool off at the pool at scenic Camp Shawnee. BELOW: Jesse Strunk, 9, ofMt. Vernon, Ky. gets settled in for a week o f fun at Camp Andrew Jackson in McKee, Ky. (Photos by Jennifer Lavender)
The camps include two overnight camps, Camp AJ and Camp Shawnee and two day camps, Rockcastle Day Camp and Pathfinders Day Camp. Camp Manager’s got together, just as the heat of last summer was a fading memory, to start the monumental task of planning for another great, eight weeks of camp this year. The oldest and longest running, Camp AJ, has been doing so for over 30 years.
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,
They recruited volunteer counselors who came by planes, trains and automobiles to sizzle up the summer with enthusiasm and energy. Campers and counselors alike got more than they bargained for, making memories and forging friendships that will last a lifetime. For some it was a once in a lifetime experience and for others it was a life-changing experience. “We focus on serving kids who might not other wise get to go to camp,” said Kasey Tackett, 20, who has worked at Camp Shawnee for the last four years. “When parents, a lot of them single mothers, hear that we only charge $10 for their child to attend camp, they say something like, ‘You’re kidding me! $10 for the whole week?’ It’s nice to be able to give all kids a chance to attend something as special as summer camp.”
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volunteer notes
The CAP Community I
by Richard Layer, Renfro House volunteer The house, the home, the people that you meet That’s the community, the peace, the quiet that CAP volunteers seek. Working with participants who have so many needs The community provides that solace to reflect upon its deeds. The community, the closeness, the devotions and all the sharing; The commitment, the friendship, the love, the never ending caring. So important is this community, made up of tireless souls, Seeking to serve, to comfort, with little thought of goals. Listening for the cry of the children in distress Giving a hand up to those who struggle and are so depressed. Providing that glimmer of hope, that hug with love, that ray of sunshine; The sincere function of the volunteer community for all of humankind. Together in community, we work, we sleep, we pray; We laugh, we cry, we do this most every day. God is our refuge and strength in all we do and say; Less we forget that His is the way, the only way. The CAP community, made up of so many kilt and kin; So diverse, yet much in common, looking forward, not where we’ve been. Together we can make it happen, right in this very place; It matters not the religion, color or creed, it’s about the people - God’s human race. Please detach and mail to the address below
Bring a smile to an Appalachian family with a
CAP CHRISTMAS BASKET During this time of year, workers in CAP'S Outreach program begin the work necessary to provide Christmas baskets of toys, gifts and food to folks we serve. If you would like to participate: Let us know the size family you w ould like to sponsor(gifts for each person in the family should cost between $15 and $25). We will send you Information abo u t your family, Including first names, ages, sizes and a few gift suggestions; We'll also include family co de stickers and guideline letter with the correct address to send your gift box; Wrap and label your gifts with the nam e of each person; Mail your boxes to CAP by or before November 21,2002. Please adhere to our deadlines, so we can make sure gifts are given to your family; If you have any questions, please call Brenda Watts at (606) 256-5822. That's all there is to it! Your A ppalachian family will have a Christmas they'll never forget and you'll know that you've contributed to the real meaning of the birth of Christ. We look forward to hearing from you! I w ould like to sponsor: _____ Small fam lly(T2 children and parents) _____ Medium Family (3-4 children and parents) _____ Large Family (5-6 children and parents) _____ Extra Large Family (8 or more children and parents or 2 medium-sized families) _____ Total Number of Families Sponsored Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ City, State, Zip________________________________________ Phone (Please include Area C od e )_ _____________________
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3
/ am n o t able to shop for a needy family, b u t I have included a contribution th a t will enable you to provide gifts for a family. ($75 provides gifts for a fam ily o f three. $30 will provide a Christmas fo o d voucher for a family o f three. A ny am ount you choose will help us share the jo y o f Christ's birth in Appalachia.
Make Checks Payable to CAP and return to: CAP Christmas Basket Program 322 Crab Orchard St., Lancaster, KY 40446
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Continued from page 10 said. His co-workers marked the occasion by taking him out to lunch on the anniversary. His wife and son joined in the celebration. “Rodney is a sincere and sensitive person,” said Vice President, Ben Prewitt. “His strong roots, love for the Appala chian people and love for the Lord have aided in his success in the areas of marketing and development. He makes those around him feel comfortable. In fact, we are fortunate that all of the Planned and Major Giving staff possess these attributes, which make them successful communicators of CAP’S work in Appalachia,” Prewitt commented. Congratulations to Rodney and all those who have dedicated their careers to CAP and its mission. May God bless you in your service to Him.
Communications was the first to hear that it had made the cut to the top five. “To say I was excited is an understatement,” said Prewitt who immediately shared the news with Stella. Her reaction, he said, was what we’ve come to expect from the down-to-earth, faith-filled enter tainer. “It’s a God thing,” she commented before moving on to talk about something else. Stella is also nominated for CCMA’s “Main stream Country Artist” award. Prewitt will travel to Nashville in November to represent CAP at the awards ceremony, only this year he won’t need a friend to get him in. “Who would’ve thought that one year later, we would be going back to this awards ceremony in conten tion for an award,” said Prewitt. “Just to be here (in this position) is astounding. It really is a God thing.” Readers can log on to www.chrisapp.org for TV airing dates and times of the CCMA awards show and for information and updates on this and other stories.
Continued from page 25 Since completing the video, Stella has worked tirelessly to promote public awareness of CAP programs. Her life and work embodies the spirit of the Christian Appalachian Project, and her representation of CAP radiates her enthusiasm for our ministry and mission. That’s definitely more than a video; it’s a God thing. At press time we learned that “Up In The Holler”, the video CAP produced with Stella Partonhas been nominated for the Christian Country Music Association’s (CCMA) “Video of the Year” award. The awards ceremony will be held November 5that the Ryman Audito rium in Nashville, Tennessee. The producer of the video, Ben Prewitt, CAP Vice President of Planned and Major Giving/Events/
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Continued from page 27 him I’d gotten the job at CAP!” Now Ruth looks forward to instilling in her students the same attitude that helped propel her through tough academics, the additional responsibility of caring for a family, loss of loved ones and her own self-doubt. Every day, Ruth has the golden opportunity of passing on to Adult Education students the wisdom of what it takes to be a success —determination, discipline, and probably most important of all, faith in a higher power that believ ing is achieving. “I want more than anything to teach these students that if they put their mind to something, they can accomplish it.”
M E M B E R OF
CAP is a member of
A m erica’s Charities If your employer supports a workplace payroll deduction program, you can now choose to contribute to CAP through A m erica’s Charities. CAP has become a member of A m erica’s Charities, a nationwide federation that provides critica lly needed human services, reaching m illions of Am ericans in thousands of com m unities. Through A m erica’s Charities workplace giving campaigns, employees can choose to support their favorite charitable causes from over 100 nationally known non-profit organizations. If you are a m ilitary or civilian federal employee, you can choose to contribute to CAP through A m erican’s Charities.
CAP’S member number is #0428. For more information, please contact: Teresa McAnly Christian Appalachian Project 322 Crab Orchard Street Lancaster, KY 40446 (859) 792-3051 www. chrisapp. org
A cc o rd in g to d a ta released a fte r the 1990 Census, pove rty rates in ce n tra l rural A p p a la c h ia re a ch e d as high as 27 percent, more than d o u b le the natio nal avera ge. New pove rty rate d a ta from the 2000 c e n sus has just been released by the U.S. C en sus Bureau for the nation, states, and c o u n ties; m ore c o m p le te d a ta is scheduled to be released in the fall of 2002, w hich will perm it a regio nw ide analysis of changes in pove rty rates. o
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