the
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nountam Christian Appalachian Project V o lu m e X X V
N o. 4
W in te r 2 0 0 6 Is s u e
„essons from I h e Mountains A P ’s 15th Annual Spring reak WorkFest
I th is issue CAP Hosts Golf Tournament Commemorative Tree-Planting Ceremony Feeding the People A Volunteer Story
True stories of courage, devotion, and hope
Reader Services TO CONTACT US by phone: (859) 792-3051 toll-free: (866) 270-4227
Contents Mountain Spirit Staff
Features
Editor/Design Linda G, East
Graphic Design Lorie A. Baugh
by email: capinfo@chrisapp.org
Staff Writer/Circulation Shawnna K. Carney
Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511
Contributing Writers Margaret Gabriel Kim Otto Amy Schill
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Photos
The Mountain Spirit is published four times a
Linda East Shawnna Carney Margaret Gabriel
year. The annual subscription price is $20.00. Subscriptions and other correspondence should be sent to:
The Mountain Spirit Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 Copyright, 2006, the Christian Appalachian Project, Inc. All rights reserved. The Christian Appalachian Project is a non-profit Christian service organization operating throughout Appalachia. 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.
Lessons from the Mountains
Families Participating in the 2007 WorkFest
Working to end domestic h\o i » home/essness & Substanc Raising Money & Awareness
Annual CAP Auction
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The Christian Appalachian Project is an interdenominational, non-profit Christian organization committed to serving people in need in Appalachia by providing physical, spiritual and emotional support through a wide variety o f programs and services. GUIDING PRINCIPLES To promote the dignity and self-worth o f individuals by promoting self-help. II. To practice and encourage good stewardship o f and accountability fo r all o f the resources entrusted to us. III. Tofoster individual growth among staff, volunteers, donors and program participants. IV . To live out and promote the Gospel o f Jesus Christ through all o f our actions. V. Tofoster open, honest and effective communication both inside and outside the organization. V I . To involve the Appalachian people at all social and economic levels in developing solutions to poverty. I.
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A summary of the registration and financial documents filed by this organization can be obtained by contact ing: 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, NEW YORK, NY 10271; IN NEW JERSEY, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING 973-504-6215; IN PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF STATE BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE, 800-732-0999; IN WEST VIRGINIA, SECRETARY OF STATE, STATE CAPITOL, CHARLESTON, WV 25305; IN FLORIDA, THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALL TOLLFREE WITHIN THE STATE AT 800-435-7352; IN NORTH CAROLINA, FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND A COPY OF THE LICENSE ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE STATE SOLICITATION LICENSING BRANCH WITHIN THE STATE AT 1-888-830-4989 OR OUTSIDE THE STATE AT 919-807-2214; or by writing to Christian Appalachian Project, P.O. Box 511, Lancaster, KY 40444-0511. Our license number in Michigan is MICS 9933. Registration with any of the above government agencies does not imply endorsement by the state.
On The Cover Feeding the People of CAP A Volunteer Profile
JoyArnetta standing on her front porch. Left: Billy Hall lives with his mother Savannah Hall.
On The Back Employees and volunteers take a break during a Habitat For Humanity build in Pike County.
Random Thoughts.................... 3 Around the Project.................. 12 Departments Book R eview ..........................24 Appalachian Recipes..............26 Across the Mountains.............. 30
RANDOM THOUGHTS Appalachian families are bracing for a brutal winter... Every year the winters are cold and bitter. Sheets o f cloudy plas tic are stretched over windows and doors to keep out the biting cold. Newspapers are stuffed under ill-fitting windows for insulation. Stacks o f firewood lean against homes, covered with blue tarps and bungee cords to keep off the snow. Yards are clean of debris, not a fallen tree limb or branch in sight. Every one has been taken and hoarded for when the expensive fire wood runs out. These families have learned that anything can create heat in a pinch: cardboard boxes, newspapers, and broken furniture. It may look like these families are ready for whatever Mother Nature can dish out. But not really. A few weeks of blowing winds will rip the insulation off these mea ger dwellings. Firewood piles will dwindle till only kindling remains. Inside, families will keep the temperature at 55 degrees, to conserve firewood and fuel. Children will wear coats inside their own homes and to bed to keep warm.
Here in the middle of what is known as Appalachia, families are bracing for a i brutal winter.
What's Online At www.chrisapp.org S h o p CAP'S O n lin e A u ction at E bay Learn h o w y o u ca n r e c e iv e life in c o m e w ith a ch aritab le gift an n u ity R ead a b o u t CAP'S C hristm as B a sk et Program B e c o m e an A ngel o f A p p alach ia
Then comes the difficult decision o f “heat or eat.” This is when families must decide if they will spend their extremely limited resources, their last few dollars in some cases, on food or fuel. Fortunately, we are helping families here to do both; heat AND eat. This year, with the help of donations from friends across the country, Christian Appalachian Project hopes to help impoverished Appalachians make ends meet. We will help make sure families have enough to eat with food vouchers and food gift baskets. I grew up here, so I know what it’s like. The winters are cruel. The wind and snow can become fierce, keeping families isolated in their homes for weeks. Helping families through the worst of times is possible only because of our many donors across this country. Thank you, and may God bless you always. -Sue Sword, Vice President
R eq u est V olu n teer Inform ation S u p p ort CAP th rou gh H on ors an d M em orials
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Joy Amette standing on her front porch in Johnson County, Kentucky.
.........
by Margaret Gabriel
look around Joy Amette’s front porch and living room in Johnson County, Ky., tells the story that work is progressing on her double-wide trailer. She is particularly proud of a large bathtub, one of several items she has salvaged from houses caught in the floodwaters that are not uncommon in the coalfields of Eastern Kentucky. She envisions taking luxurious bubble baths after the tub’s installation. The sheetrock, buckets of paint and tools in the house and on her porch provide evidence that Joy is doing what she can to make the needed repairs on the trailer, but a large bucket of rusty nails reveals that the efforts have been going on for a very long time. With a wide smile, Joy says she will welcome help from a WorkFest crew.
The 15th annual Christian
groups o f college students live
Appalachian Project Spring
camp-style, working on con
Break WorkFest will take place
struction projects during the day
for three weeks in March 2007.
and learning about Appalachian
By November 2006 CAP hous
culture in the evenings.
ing workers had interviewed
Some WorkFest volunteers
and identified the families who
have experience in home repair
will participate. WorkFest brings
and construction, but many more
together Appalachian families
are virtually unskilled when they
in need of home repair and res
present themselves to the CAP
toration with college volunteers
housing workers who serve as
from all over the United States
the crew chiefs for the projects.
who are willing and eager to
The story o f WorkFest is really
help with the work during their
the story o f relationships: the
spring break.
relationships between the volun
If you enter the words
teers and CAP, but most impor
“Alternative Spring Break” in
tant, the relationships
an Internet search engine, you
between the Christian
could view as many as 13 mil
Appalachian Project and
lion Web sites that feature infor
the families whose homes
mation about such programs.
are repaired.
Some are college Web sites,
homes have long been
groups that host overseas experi
the images that are used
ences for young people. CAP,
to illustrate need in the
however, has hosted groups of
Appalachian region. The
college students during spring
collaboration o f groups
break since long before the
like CAP, which provide
words “Alternative Spring
labor, and the Kentucky
Break” entered the lexicon.
Housing Corporation,
Indeed, as WorkFest becomes
which provides low-inter
more and more popular during
est loans to low-income
the early spring, CAP Housing
families and individuals,
employee Sally Ousley tells of
is working to change the
the possibility of the creation of
reality of need in eastern
“Youth Fest,” a work program
Kentucky.
families in need o f home repair and restoration with college volunteers from all over the United States...
CAP’S housing pro
being explored for the summer
gram is designed to
months.
work in partnership with
For three weeks in March,
together Appalachian
Pictures o f dilapidated
others are those of educational
for high school students that is
orkFest brings
people who live in unsafe Joy has been doing what she can to make the needed repairs on her trailer.
5
for five years, starting as a caseworker for out reach and then moving into a position with the housing program, also as a caseworker. Families often become involved with CAP through such programs as Outreach and Elderly services and apply for the Housing program after a relation ship has been estab lished. Before coming to work for CAP, Jill worked for the county road department, but Delinda Huff (Housing Technician), Jill Stafford (Housing Caseworker), and Savannah Hall discuss the much needed repairs on her home
or overcrowded housing
6
her work with CAP out reach, she discovered a
(defined as fewer rooms in
real attitude o f caring for the
the house than inhabitants
people who came to her for
o f the house). Partnership
assistance. It is an attitude that
involves sweat equity and
she has carried to her position
financial repayment, when
with Housing.
that is possible. Unlike
Savannah Hall
shortly after beginning
“Some people might be able
some other groups, CAP’s
to take an application out to a
program focuses most of
family and then forget about
its energy on repairing
them, but I’m not one o f those
I
and remodeling homes.
people,” Jill says. Although she
Occasionally, though,
realizes that it is important to
work crews determine that
keep a professional distance
a home is beyond repair
from those she assists, she bal
and construction o f a new
ances distance with a true sense
structure is a better choice.
o f caring that she readily com
Relationships most important
municates. She has an easy relationship
Jill Stafford has worked
with Savannah Hall, for exam
in CAP’s Big Sandy region
ple. Savannah began participat-
cnJT avannah lives
w ith one o f her four children, Billy, w ho is disabled, and occassionally she provides hom e for her other children, her grand daughter and her great-grandson... After watching “The Joy of Painting” with Bob Ross on cable television, Joy began painting her own pictures.
ing in CAP elderly services in
they came and built my
Johnson County four years ago
porch,” Savannah says.
after learning about the program.
Before that, the entrance
Through that involvement she
to the trailer was a shaky
learned about the possibility of home repair, and has been on
set o f steps. Savannah frequently tripped on the
the waiting list for a long time,
steps and often suffered
she says. Savannah lives with
broken toes.
one of her four children, Billy,
The WorkFest crew
who is disabled, and occasion
will repair Savannah’s
ally she provides a home for
roof and ceiling, win
her other children, her grand
dows, floors, kitchen
daughter and her great-grandson,
cabinets and will add a
Jeremiah, age three. The family
bedroom. Delinda Huff,
home is a trailer that Savannah’s
Housing Technician,
mother purchased 30 years ago.
plans to include enough
Savannah is proud o f the fam
money in Savannah’s
ily homestead, despite the fact
loan to hook the trailer
that the trailer is in dire need of
to the city water system,
repair.
so she and Billy will no
“I called Jill last year and
longer have to depend
Tracy Sherman is currently attending Morehead State University.
7
Savannah discussed installing a furnace but decided to keep her coal stove because of cost.
on well water. Jill and Delinda
Volunteers work in partnership
avarmah worked
have talked with Savannah about
until she w as injured
elderly woman plans to keep her
houses will be repaired during
coal stove because o f the cost
WorkFest, and it’s not an easy
in an automobile
of heating with a furnace. She
decision, she says.
installing a furnace, but the
stokes the stove with coal and
accident and today lives on Social Security and a small disability check.
Delinda determines which
“Our WorkFest projects have
wood that her son Randy picks
to be fairly good-sized jobs,
up on roadsides.
ones that will keep a crew busy
Savannah worked until she
for a whole week,” Delinda
was injured in an automobile
says. “And we like to have
accident and today lives on
crews working with families that
Social Security and a small dis
will welcome them and pitch in
ability check. “I make do,” she
to help when they can.”
insists. “I raise a garden and put up vegetables.”
Joy has lived in her trailer for nearly 20 years, and has been alone for the last 10, after
8
divorcing her husband. She
that selects a limited number of
trailer is falling in and needs
keeps several cats as “family,”
families and works with them
attention and Tracy identifies a
and spends much of her time
to eliminate any and all barri
need for insulation, siding and
painting landscapes, although
ers needed to bring them out
windows. The needed repair will
she constantly claims, “They’re
of poverty. Tracy Sherman has
require a low-interest loan that
not that good!”
been a CAP Partner for several
will enable the family to add
As a girl, Joy enjoyed sketch
years, and is currently attend
two bedrooms and to install a
ing, but never tried painting until
ing Morehead State University,
septic system for the trailer.
she saw “The Joy of Painting”
working on a degree in middle
with Bob Ross on television
school education. “I don’t
to the Appalachian region and
program. “I said, ‘that doesn’t
have the patience to work with
have formed a comfortable
look hard; I think I ’ll get me
elementary school kids!” Tracy
friendship in the years that Tracy
some paint,”’ says Joy, who has
jokes.
has been a CAP Partner, and
Tracy and Jill are both native
sold one painting and cried after
Tracy’s husband, Paul, works
both say they believe that the
accepting $ 10 for her work. “I
odd jobs, work that is often diffi
family’s goals are now easily in
like to make people smile and if
cult to find in Magoffin County.
reach. Within a year, Tracy will
I think I ’ve made them happy,
They have two school-aged
have her degree - and hopes to
that makes me happy.”
daughters. Although the family
have a teaching job - and her
Volunteers will learn a great lesson
has been selected as a WorkFest
family’s home will be warm,
family, the repairs that will be
comfortable and safe.
Several years ago, CAP
made to their trailer have not
Savannah, Joy and Tracy
launched “Partners,” a program
been specified. The side o f the
may not realize it, but they have great lessons to teach the WorkFest volunteers they host. While the participating families and individuals are quick to express their appre ciation for the work that has been done on their homes, the determination they show to work with CAP to improve their homes — and their lives — will result in lessons that will undoubt edly allow this group of volunteers to join others who say that they gained far more from WorkFest than they have given.
Billy Hall, one of Savannah Hall’s four children, is disabled and lives with his mother.
9
JLettesui fo t&e Sctit& i Dear Friend o f The Mountain Spirit, As you read The Mountian Spirit, we hope that you will be blessed by the heartwarming stories o f the people o f Appalachia. As a supporter o f the Christian Appalachian Project, you are a part o f the CAP family, and without you, our mission in Appalachia would not be possible. We value your input, and would love to hear from you! As we continually work to improve the magazine, we would like for you to share your comments with us, to be published in an upcoming issue of the The Mountian Spirit. Please feel free to share your thoughts, poetry, recipes and prayer requests below. On behalf of the staff of The Mountain Spirit, I would like to pray for God’s richest blessings for a wonderful New Year. -Linda East, Editor I " “ — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — n - Name:_____________ _____________________________________________________________________ Address:________ ________________________________________________________________________ I City:____________________________ State:_______________________ Zip:_______________________ I Dear Editor,
Please share my comments in an upcoming issue of The Mountain Spirit.
HtuutTi tyou, ¿W cpiusi teifcfu viti
C hristian A ppalachian P roject , I nc. Charitable C/ift Annuity 'Proaram
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OULD YOU C O N SID ER
Uniform Gift Annuity Rates Single Life
M AKING A G IFT TO THE
Age 55 C h r is t ia n A p p a l a c h ia n 56 PROJECT, A N D RECEIVING 57 LIFE IN CO M E? 58 59 60 This is possible when you fu n d a CAP charitable gift annuity. A chari 61 table gift annuity is an agreement between you and CAP. In exchange fo r cash or other assets (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.) o f $2,500 or more, 62 CAP guarantees to make fixed payments fo r the rest o f your life. Follow 63 ing your life, the assets remaining are used to fu n d the work o f CAP. 64 65 66 A 67 haritable ift nnuity w ith CAP 68 Fixed payments for life. 69 A charitable income tax deduction the year the charitable gift annuity is funded. 70 A portion of each lifetime payment considered a tax-free return of principal. 71 An opportunity to make a significant commitment to the Christian Appala chian Project and enable us to help those less fortunate throughout Appala 72
Rate
Age
Rate
5.5%
73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90
6.8
5.6 5.6 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.8
DVANTAGES OF A G A
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5.9 5.9 6.0 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7
chia for years to come.
6.9 7.1 8.2 7.4 7.6 7.8 8.0 8.3 8.5 8.8 9.2 9.5 9.9 10.2 10.6 11.0 11.3
and over
I Please use the following information to calculate my charitable gift annuity Name (Mr., Mrs., Ms, Miss)___________________________________________________ _ I Address________________________________________________________________ _________ City____________________________________State_____________________________ Zip____ Telephone (_
X
JDay_
Birthdate Month
Amount of Gift Considered $_____________________________ Frequency of Payment Desired: O Annual d 2 times/year ($2,500 min)
Year
d 4 times/year Ü M onthly ($5,000 min) ($10,000 min)
U ffes, I am interested in a Two-life Charitable Gift Annuity illustration. Name o f Second Beneficiary_______________________________________ Birthdate_____________________________ P lea se C o m p l e t e & RETURN TO:
Christian Appalachian Project Planned Giving Department P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511
(All information provided is confidential )
CAP Hosts Summer Picnic For Employees, Volunteers and Their Families A frequently used term here at CAP is “the CAP family.” And just like any typical family, we are spread out across the miles, with few opportunities to come together just to visit. So when it came time for a CAP-wide picnic, many were excited to attend. Everyone was encouraged to bring their spouses and children as well, further creating an atmosphere of family fun and games. The day-long event was held on September 1 at Natural Bridge State Park, which offers visitors breathtaking views, challenging hikes, a refreshing swimming pool, and lots of room to play games, cook food and catch up with friends. Earlier this year, CAP launched a health and wellness initiative, designed to encour age employees and volunteers to focus more on living healthier, more active lifestyles. The main part of the program centered on counting the number o f steps walked every day. At the picnic, those who had walked the most steps were recognized and received a prize. In addition, the next part of the plan was announced at the pic-
Employees Danny Purcell and Anita Seals take the time to chat away from work.
nic, in which participants were encouraged to form walking teams. Although the weather was a little on the rainy side, picnic attendees did not let that discourage them from having a great time. Some chose to play indoor games, while others took advan tage o f the time to visit with people they don’t often get to see face to face. Thanks to everyone who attended for making it a great day, and thanks to those who put in many hours organizing and carrying out a great CAP family get-together!
Employees, volunteers and family members enjoyed several group activities during CAP’s picnic.
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CAP HOSTS GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT SCHOLARSHIP FUND this was the first one dedicated specifically to raising On August 7, dozens o f golfers convened on money for the scholarship fund. To help show those StoneCrest G olf Course high above Prestonsburg, Kentucky, to participate in an afternoon of golf. It was in attendance the importance o f the fund, organizers invited five recent HASF recipients to participate in a typical late summer day in Appalachia: sunny, hot, the opening ceremony. Mr. Howell was on hand to and with a chance o f storms. The golfers were not meet the students, and each deterred by the heat or one was presented an over the threat of rain, how sized check as a souvenir. ever, and were enthusi astic about golfing for When they met Mr. Howell each student expressed his a cause. Awards were or her gratitude for receiv presented at the end of ing the help. One recipient the day for achievements noted that without financial such as best scores and assistance, his dream of longest drive, but the real motivation was attending college would remain a dream. Another, a to help raise money single mother o f two girls, for CAP’s Howell Appalachian Student added that she wanted to be Fund (HASF). HASF recipients and founder left to right: Derek Chase Thompson, Serra an example to her children Mills, Gabriel Stallsworth, Jerry Howell (founder), Zachary Meadows The Howell on the importance o f further and Maxine Gibson. Appalachian Student ing one’s education. Fund is a college scholarship created over 15 years A big thank you goes out to all who participated in ago by Jerry Howell, and is now administered by this year’s tournament and made it a great success. CAP. The ultimate goal o f the fund is not only to pro The teams may have competed against themselves vide money for deserving college students, but also to and each other, but the real winners were recipients oi help retain gifted college graduates, keeping produc the Howell Appalachian Student Fund, funded in part tive citizens in eastern by money raised in the tournament. Kentucky. Although CAP has hosted fundraising golf tournaments in the past,
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Hew Volunteers Commissioned In September, CAP commissioned
tion at Camp Shawnee getting to know each other
twelve new long-term volunteers. The vol
and learning about CAP. Orientation concluded with
unteers, who have made a commitment to
a commissioning service to officially begin the volun
serve nine months or more in Appalachia,
teers’ ministry in Appalachia.
represent eight different states and range in age from 22 to 76. Jennifer Luoma, a 2006 graduate of Boston College, knew she wanted to make a commitment to long-term service after graduation. “I wanted to volunteer a year after college to give that time to God,” Jennifer said. Jennifer chose CAP because she wanted a “Christ-centered” program where she could work with the elderly to discern whether a career in geriatrics is in her future. Kentucky native Kevin DeMaria’s decision to come to CAP was influenced by a mission trip to Guatemala. “My experience there inspired me to give back to others less fortunate than myself,” he said. The volunteers spent a week o f orienta-
back row: Don Schaeffer (Housing), Kevin DeMaria (Housing), Liz Berling (Outreach Services), Jennifer Luoma (Elderly Services), Bruce Silva (Housing), T.J. Sellner (Adult Education) front row: Amy Nee (Adult Education), Helen Zudrell (Substance Abuse Recovery), Lindsey Gasperic (Camp Andrew Jackson), Katherine Grimmett (Housing), Jennie Tonkin (Child and Family Development), Danae Silva (Child and Family Development)
^TVlcmorial & ZHonor Cjips i
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Are meaningful ways to support the Christian Appalachian Project and, at the same time, extend condolences, congratula tions, or other greetings to family and friends. Upon receipt of your gift, we will send an acknowledge ment to you and to your family/friends you designate. The amount will not be disclosed. Your gift of $25.00 or more will be published in the High lights newsletter and on our web page. Honor and Memorial gifts can be made online, or you can send your gift with a note listing your wishes to: Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511
T(aising Money and Awareness Two o f CAP’s programs - Family Life Abuse Center (FLAC) and Healing Rain - hosted their second annual auction to raise funds to help offset operat ing expenses. The event, held on a warm mid-September Saturday afternoon, was again a success, drawing many bidders from miles around. While waiting for the auction to start, the crowd, which was approximately 100 strong, was entertained by songs from the Northside Baptist Church Praise Band. Their upbeat Christian music rang out across the grounds, while those in attendance clapped and sang along. The crowd was also treated to a few songs by Lauren, a
audience. Free hot dogs, popcorn and drinks were provided as well. Local businesses and individu als in the communities CAP serves donated goods for the cause. The auction featured a wide variety of items, appealing to many differ ent bidders. Gift baskets, boutique quality purses, pottery, a stone bench, a 20” TV/DVD player, and lots of household items were all auctioned to the highest bidders. The auction itself was handled with ease by Mike Caperton and Danetta Ford Allen, who encour aged the crowd to help raise as much money for the programs as possible. “Remember that you’re Left to right: Kristi Roark and Shana Goggins enjoyed participating in the annual auction. here for CAP,” Caperton said
“Tfemember that you’re bere for C A P .T Healing Rain participant, who sang and played guitar, drawing a stand ing ovation from her appreciative
before he began the bidding. “Let’s hope you overpay, as the money goes for a great cause”
As with the previous year’s auction, bidders were happy to help, and raised well over $6,000, an increase over last year. Peggy Hancock, manager o f both pro grams, was pleased with the auction’s success, and is looking forward to hosting another next year. In addition to the fundraising aspect, the auction serves to put domestic violence, homelessness and substance abuse in the spot light, educating community mem bers about how they can recognize it and bring an end to it. By raising money for the program, staff mem bers are also raising awareness.
The event was a great success raising over $6,000.
15
Recently on a warm and sunny fall afternoon, Betty DeRossett fought back tears as she shoveled dirt onto the young flowering cherry tree. No one wanted to pry and ask what thoughts occupied her mind at that moment, but they surely were filled with memories of her daughter, Bettina Chaffins Hunt. As the tree matures, those near it will marvel at how it blos soms and grows, but Betty cannot do the same for her daughter. Bettina was killed in November 2004, a victim of domestic violence at the age of 42. There are many ways to recover from the grief that comes from losing a loved one. Commemorating their time on Earth by planting a tree is one
way. By nurturing the life o f a living thing, others can honor the memory o f a life cut short. This is how CAP’s Big Sandy Family Abuse Center (BSFAC) chooses to keep alive the memory o f those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. This year, Betty was asked to help plant the tree, and to do so in mem ory o f her daughter. The planting o f a tree at the abuse shelter is a tradi tion that is held every five years to commemorate vic tims o f domestic violence and to serve as a reminder that the problem still exists today. This year’s event was held at the beginning o f October, and served as a kickoff to Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Richard Ginn, CAP Chaplain, provided opening remarks and prayer. As he spoke to the group, he encouraged them to remain vigilant about helping oth ers and to genuinely show care and concern, saying,
" A s a s t a f f our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends o f these victim s’’ -Connie Little, BSFAC manager “We really do need each other.” This year’s speaker was Chris Griffith, manager o f CAP’s Family Life Counseling Services. Chris spoke o f his years o f counseling domestic violence victims, and told the group that fear is often the most motivating factor in why a victim doesn’t leave her abuser. Sherry Currens, who works with the Kentucky Left: Balloons were released to honor eight other domestic violence victims in the region that the abuse center covers. Right: Betty DeRossett fought back tears as she planted a tree in memory of her daughter, Bettina Chaffins Hunt.
Center Tdolds Domestic Violence Association (KDVA), was on hand for the event, which was one of several held throughout the state. “There are events going on pretty much every day,” she said, noting that KDVA headquarters are usu ally pretty empty in October, as the staff feels strongly about attending as many events as possible. Several of those in attendance helped Betty plant the young tree, including BSFAC staff, other CAP employees, and State Representative Brandon Spencer. Following the tree planting ceremony, those in atten dance observed a moment of silence to remember those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. In addition, balloons were released to honor eight other domestic violence victims in the region that the abuse center covers. BSFAC staff also offered tours of the facility to those interested in learning how the center operates. Connie Little, BSFAC manager, spoke to the crowd, encouraging them to sign pledges promising to help put an end to all forms of violence. “As a staff,” she said, “our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of these victims.” She emphasized the gravity o f the current domestic violence situation, and spoke o f being encouraged and excited about new community partnerships being formed to help serve and educate domestic violence victims. Although planting a tree will not bring back her daughter, the fruit of Betty’s labors will no doubt serve as a testimony not only to her daughter’s life, but also as a reminder to those who see it that the heartbreaking reality of domestic violence continues to affect the lives o f so many families throughout the region. As the tree flourishes, so will the memory of Bettina’s life, and so will the determination o f domestic violence advocates to once and for all put an end to domestic violence.
T h e planting o f a tree a t the abuse shelter is a tradition that is held every five years to commemorate victims o f domestic violence...
CAP Participates in Habitat For Humanity Build Approximately 70 CAP employees and volunteers recently joined together to build a house in one week during a Habitat For Humanity build in Pike County. The event, hosted by Big Sandy Habitat For Humanity, drew hundreds to a central location to build six homes for deserving families. Bryan Byrd, Housing manager, coordinated CAP’s efforts, and was pleased with the turn out, and with the home that resulted from much hard work. “Our homeowner said to me repeatedly, T v e got the best house!’” Bryan said, praising the high Biu Mills and Bryan Byrd watch as Cris,y andher daughter receive quality o f work done by those who worked during the week. Bryan said CAP’s crew completed nearly every aspect necessary, including fram ing, roofing, plumbing, and painting. “It would be easier to list the things we didn’t do,” he remem bers, adding that it was exciting to be able to meet many employees and volunteers from other areas CAP serves. He says proudly that by the end o f the week, the crews had taken up a collection to buy a swing set for the homeowner, a single mother o f two young children. Thanks to all CAP employees and volunteers who participated in this event. Because o f your efforts, a deserving family now has a new, well-built home that will serve as their haven for years to come.
Join CAP as we go Unto the Hills, in our quarterly ministry newsletter. Learn about the work you help support in the Appalachian region while reading about program updates and current activities. Request a free copy for your church and share the experience. □ Yes, please send my church a copy of Unto the Hills today. Name of Church :__________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________ City:____________________ State: Email: Phone: Mail To: Christian Appalachian Project Development Office P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, ICY 40444-0511
oss a coin in a fo u n ta in a n d m ake a w ish. If y ou’re th in k in g a b o u t yo u r fu tu re a n d w h at
y o u r estate? W h at ch arities will b en efit fro m yo u r estate?
w ould h a p p e n sh o u ld you die, you m ig h t say: “I w ish th a t m y b ro th e r, Tom , w ould h a n d le m y es ta te .” O r p e rh a p s, “I w ish A unt E tta w ould tak e care of m y d a u g h te r.” O r m aybe, “I w ish th a t any esta te taxes w ould be k e p t to a m in im u m .” You m ig h t also say, “I w ish to give a p o rtio n of m y esta te to CAP a n d o th e r ch arities I care a b o u t.”
Avail, properly prepared, lets you sleep better at night. It makes your family rest better, too. ishing w ells m ay be fu n for som e things, b u t n o t w h en it com es to esta te p lan n in g . W hen y o u ’re dealing w ith y o u r esta te assets a n d v a ri M
ous resp o n sib ilities it’s far b e tte r to “to ss a co in ” l^ M /\shes , w ishes, w ishes — th a t’s all th ey are. A nd to ssin g coins in to a w ishing well w o n ’t help. T he only w ay you can be sure of th ese th in g s — to change th e m from w ishes to c e rta in
to w ard a qualified a tto rn e y w ho can h elp you do th in g s right. G ra n te d it will tak e m o re th a n a p en n y o r tw o, b u t th e certain ty a n d satisfactio n you receive will fa r outw eigh any cost.
ties — is to p re p a re a will o r o th e r a p p ro p ria te
3 % . can p rovide for you co m p lim en tary
esta te -p la n n in g docum ent. Avail is a w ay to m ake yo u r w ishes com e tru e . In it, you list w h a t you w a n t to h ap p en : W ho will re p re se n t you th ro u g h th e process of p ro b a te ? W ho will care for any m in o r children? W ho will look after any tru sts? W ho will receive
b ro c h u re s w ith help fu l in fo rm atio n ab o u t m aking a will. C om plete th is reply fo rm a n d we will m ail in fo rm atio n to you p ro m p tly . O r re q u e st in fo rm a tio n by calling us toll free a t 1-866-270-4227.
Please send me your complimentary will information brochures. Please contact me about a personal visit. The best time to call me is:_________________ I have provided for Christian Appalachian Project in my will or other estate-planning.
A ddress: City: State:
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U Zip:
Phone:
iJ /L id i/lty :
Christian Appalachian Project Planned Giving Dept. P. O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 . J
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FEEDING T Margaret Hope first heard about CAP the way many people do: through an appeal in the mail. While some feel called to donate to CAP, Margaret felt drawn to give even more o f herself. CAP’s mission intrigued her, so rather than just send a donation, she decided to see the organization in person. Her initial trip - and much prayer - was enough to convince her to leave her home in Virginia and move to eastern Kentucky to serve the Lord and the people o f Appalachia. Margaret, who is 74, already had a full and busy life in her home state. She was very active, continuing to work and serve her community in a wide variety o f civic and volunteer roles. She was not looking for something more to fill her time, but the Lord must have had other ideas. Margaret owns eleven - yes, eleven - bread machines, giving her the capacity to feed many hungry people. Margaret says that as she was learning more about CAP, its mission and its vol unteer opportunities, she could feel the Lord telling
I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE: HE THAT COMETH TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER; AND HE THAT BELIEVETH O N ME SHALL NEVER THIRST. - JO H N 6:35
her, “Margaret, you need to go feed those people.” So, go she did. Following her initial visit during Labor Day weekend o f 2005, she made a second visit to the area, buying a home not far from CAP’s main headquarters. Most volunteers live in one o f CAP’s volunteer houses, but Margaret felt so strongly about the Lord’s challenge to her that she uprooted her entire world and transferred it to the mountains. Margaret is now known throughout CAP for her seemingly endless supply o f homemade bread. The program most benefited by her time and talents has been Elderly Services. Margaret bakes bread for par ticipants in the elderly program and the caseworkers take the loaves with them when they go on home Left: Margaret Hope could feel the Lord telling her to go feed the people.
People o f C A P visits. Margaret feels this demonstrates to the partici pants that CAP has a genuine concern for their well being. She says she has found that Appalachian peo ple are proud and need to get to know someone before they will accept help. She says the gift of a loaf of bread can help win their confidence. Margaret’s goal is to begin teaching others how to make their own bread, thus equipping them to provide for themselves, and maybe someday others. She also says she believes that local churches could use the idea as well, meeting weekly to bake bread for needy members o f their communities. Baking bread is not the only thing that occupies M argaret’s time, however. She also cooks for the
M a r g a r e t is q u ic k t o NOTE THAT HER DAILY MEALS ARE MORE THAN JUST WORK, PROCLAIMING, “JT’S A MISSION; IT’S NOT A JOB.’’
many church groups who come to volunteer with CAP for a week at a time, providing them with healthy, filling meals to give them strength for the work they
o f volunteer groups is expected to double next year,
perform while here. Margaret is quick to note that
which means even more baking and cooking. She
her daily meals are more than just work, proclaiming,
does not flinch at the idea o f more work, even though
“It’s a mission; it’s not a job.”
many women her age have long since retired. “If you
Margaret says that she is excited that the number
really are serving the Lord, you don’t have a retire ment,” she says. As if baking bread and cooking meals were not enough, Margaret also helps out in the Housing and Volunteer offices, providing years o f planning and organizational experience where needed. Margaret is emphatic that she goes where the Lord leads her. She says she’ll stay in Appalachia and with CAP until the Lord calls her somewhere else and for as long as she’s able to work. Margaret wears many different hats at CAP. Each seems to energize her and bring her peace, reaffirming her decision to live and serve the Lord in Appalachia.
Margaret is known for her seemingly endless supply of homemade bread.
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The Bethlehem Family CAP Volunteer Program ___,
_
bv Kim Otto, Volunteer Recruitment Manager
l i very year, in the small town where I grew up,
and gave them what they could, a lowly stable where
a large nativity scene is displayed in the local public
Mary and Joseph could stay warm and dry through
park, located on the main road through town. It is a
the night and a manger to cradle their baby.
typical Christmas scene, with an angel, a few wise
When reflecting upon this nameless family from
men, some bam animals, a couple of shepherds, and
Bethlehem, they remind me of our CAP volunteers,
the holy family. All are placed in a wooden stable,
who see people every day who have a variety o f needs
facing the center where Jesus lays in a makeshift
and may come knocking on the door. Our volunteers
manger.
give them what they have to offer; their time, a lis
Growing up, I didn’t think much about this scene,
tening ear, a warm meal, or a soft blanket. Like the
as I had heard numerous times the stories o f Jesus’
Bethlehem family, our volunteers see where there is a
birth as described in the Gospels. Recently, how
need and they offer what they can to better the lives
ever, I had a conversation with a friend about this
o f others. I
common Christmas image, and he challenged me to
am truly humbled by the gift o f service our volun
look beyond the characters who are represented in
teers offer every day to the community. In this special
the stable, and reflect upon those characters not actu
season of giving, may our volunteers be an example
ally in the scene, but who made the scene possible,
and a challenge to all o f us, and let us remember that
namely the family in Bethlehem who offered Mary
we are all called to give what we can to others, no
and Joseph their stable after the innkeeper had turned
matter how big or small, and that God will take care
them away.
o f the rest.
This Bethlehem family had no idea what special people were really in their midst, knocking at their door that night. They simply saw a family in need
Housing and Home Repair * Child and Family Development Program * Spouse Abuse Shelters * Counseling Services
G ive the greatest g ift of a ll... V o lu n te e r ! Contact us today to learn how you can make a difference in Appalachia and change lives... including your own. CAP Volunteer Program 4192 North Wilderness Road Mt. Vernon, KY 40456 1-800-755-5322 volunteer@chri sapp.org Adult Education * Outreach Services * Summer Camps * Elderly Services * Disability Services * and many more!
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...MANY OF THE CHARACTERS THAT SERVED TO BOLSTER Nearly a century ago, conditions for mine work ers and their families in West Virginia were so abominable that the beginnings of widespread unrest began to show through the poverty, the starvation, and the coal-dyed faces o f those who made the daily, deadly trek underground. Years o f suffering the existence o f a mining family - of constantly owing the mine company for company store purchases, of parents making the heartwrenching decision to send one child after another into the mines to do dead work (basic chores for which miners received no pay but had to do), and o f having entire families devastated when a hus band, father, son or brother did not make it out alive - had driven some miners to the point of no longer fearing the consequences o f demand ing basic rights and daring to speak of organizing their demands by joining the United Mineworkers Association.
STORMING HEAVEN A B o o k R e v ie w by S haw nna C am ey
This is the stark, bleak and gripping reality that serves as the backdrop for Denise Giardina’s novel Storming Heaven. While it is considered a work o f fiction, it is based closely on actual events that represent the only time in America’s history when U.S. citizens were under attack from their own government. Giardina, who herself was bom in West Virginia and grew up in a coal camp, presents the events that led up to the Battle of Blair Mountain through four distinct and authentic voices. C.J. Marcum is an activist and mayor with a strong love for the land the coal companies stole from him and his family. Rondal Lloyd, a miner who is among the first to speak o f unionizing, lives his entire life over the course o f the novel. Giardina balances the male voices o f the story with two females. The first is Carrie Bishop, a Kentuckian who
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XHIBITAN ADMIRABLE PASSION, COURAGE AND DEFIANCE M IN THEIR CONSTANT STRUGGLE... grows up during the novel to become a nurse, and who falls in love with Rondal. Rosa Angelelli is one o f many Italian immigrants who populated the area; the losses she experiences at the hands of the mines bring her to the brink of insanity. Each of the four narrators has a different perspec tive to offer the reader. As the reader progresses through each chapter, the narrators add layer after layer of details that illustrate the sequence of events that brought about much bloodshed on both sides of the battle. Three of the narrators - C.J., Rondal and Carrie - tell the bulk of the story, with Rosa providing a brief glimpse into the deteriorating mind of a m iner’s wife and mother. Throughout the novel, many o f the characters exhibit an admirable passion, courage and defiance that served to bolster them in their constant struggle to improve their living and working condi tions: “Declaration of Independence says we got a right to overthrow the government when it gits worth less,” C.J. says to a school-age Rondal, unknowingly foretelling a future that would affect them both. Although Giardina is not so graphic in her writing that she turns readers off, she remains loyal to provid ing a vivid, sometimes shocking account of just how dangerous the situation was for miners interested in becoming unionized. As a young adult, Rondal makes contact with a union representative named Johnson, and helps him arrange a clandestine meeting among a few miners: “Yall here to ride the goat?” We mumbled that yes we were ready. “But how do you know you’re ready till you know what it is?” said Johnson. “Let me tell you about it. Some of you belongs to the Redmen, the Odd Fellows and the like. You got all them secret
words, all the mumbo-jumbo. But brothers, this aint no club. We got to stay secret for a while to survive, and when we finally show ourselves, we got to stick together to live. This here is life and death. This aint no Mason lodge, this is the United Mineworkers.” Later, Rondal and Johnson are accosted by com pany-hired thugs, and are questioned about their attempts to recruit miners for the union. To Rondal’s horror, he witnesses firsthand how far the coal com panies are willing to go to squelch union activity, as Johnson makes the ultimate sacrifice for his cause. As the informal battle escalates, each side becomes more determined to emerge the victor. From a coldhearted sheriff and his company-owned deputies to state police to ultimately the United States govern ment itself, the miners face opposition and violence seemingly everywhere, even on courthouse steps in the public eye. The crescendo o f the battle, both metaphorical and physical, is played out on Blair Mountain, with thou sands of men fighting on both sides. The coal com panies, with federal troops and their accompanying bombs, guns and poison gas, ultimately are the victor, and the miners have no choice but to temporarily give up their fight. The novel ends with a new narrator, Dillon Freeman, son o f Carrie and Rondal, himself a union man. Dillon provides the reader with a retrospective of the events immediately following the surrender, and o f the lives of characters the reader has followed throughout the novel. Giardina has written a follow-up to Storming Heaven, called The Unquiet Earth, which continues the story o f the next generation and their lives in the mountains o f West Virginia and eastern Kentucky. 25
A PPALACHIAN
D E L IC IO U S R EC IPE S YOU WILL ENJOY SHARINC
Cheesy Brunch Casserole 1 lb. sausage, cooked, crumbled and drained 6 slices bread, cubed 11/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups milk or half and half 6 eggs, beaten 1/2 teaspoon mustard 1 teaspoon salt pepper to taste Layer bread, sausage and cheese in a baking dish. Mix all ingredients and pour over layers. Refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350 for one hour.
S\0eet Potato Casserole
Hot Spiced Cider 2 quarts apple cider 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice 1 teaspoon whole cloves 2 cinnamon sticks pinch ground nutmeg 1 small orange, sliced whole cloves for orange slices Combine cider, brown sugar and ground nutmeg in large pot or crockpot. Tie up allspice, cloves and cinnamon sticks in cheesecloth; add to pot. Stick extra whole cloves in orange slices and float in cider mix. Simmer until hot and ready to serve.
3 cups sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup butter 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup pecans 1/4 cup butter, softened Combine first seven ingredients and mix well. Spoon into buttered casserole dish. Stir butter into brown sugar and flour. Stir in pecans. Sprinkle over potato mixture. Bake for 30 minutes at 350.
D O YOU HAVE A FAVORITE RECIPE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?
R ecipes
VITH Y O U R FAMILY A N D FR IE N D S...
Apple Cranberry Pecan Stuffing 3 cups apple juice 1/4 cup margarine 1 cup dried cranberries 2 small apples, chopped 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans 2 packages (6 oz. each) stuffing mix Bring juice and margarine to boil in medium saucepan on high heat. Stir in cranberries, apples, and stuffing mix; cover. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in pecans.
Peppermint Brittle 2 pounds white chocolate 30 small peppermint candy canes Line a large baking pan with aluminum foil. Put white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in microwave on medium setting for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Place candy canes in a plastic bag, and break into chunks using a hammer or rolling pin. Stir peppermint into melted white chocolate. Spread evenly in pan; chill until set, about one hour. Break into pieces by slamming pan on counter or breaking into pieces by hand.
Holiday Cheesecake 11/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/3 cup butter, melted 3 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened 3 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 eggs
3/4 cup sugar decorating gels colored sprinkles Mix crumbs, butter and 3 tablespoons sugar; press firmly onto bottom of 13x9-inch pan. Beat cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add eggs; mix until blended; pour over crust. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until center is almost set; cool. Refrigerate 3 hours or overnight. Cut into 32 bars. Decorate with gels and sprinkles to resemble tiny presents. Store leftover bars in refrigerator.
Eggnog 6 beaten egg yolks 1/3 cup sugar 2 cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup whipping cream 1 tablespoon sugar ground nutmeg In a large heavy saucepan, mix the egg yolks, 1/3 cup sug ar and milk. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture just coats a metal spoon. Remove from heat. Place the pan in a sink or bowl of ice water and stir for two minutes. Stir in vanilla. Cover and chill for at least 4 or up to 24 hours. Just before serving, in a mixing bowl beat the cream and the two tablespoons sugar until soft peaks form. Transfer chilled egg mixture to a punch bowl. Fold in the whipped cream mixture. Serve at once. Sprinkle each serving with nutmeg.
If so, send us a recipe card in the envelope provided or write to us at: Christian Appalachian Project, Publications Department, PO. Box 511, Lancaster, KY 40444-0511
The Christmas Story The Christmas story didn’t begin The night of my Savior’s birth. It’s from everlasting to everlasting. Far older than the earth.
As shepherds watched their flock that night, This story in the Bible is found, The angels o f the Lord came down, And glory shone all around.
St. John One and One plainly tells us, He was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him, Including the earth on which we trod.
The shepherds they were sure afraid But the angels said, “Fear not.” I bring you tidings o f great joy, These tidings have not been forgot.
Thousands of years before He was bom, The prophets did foretell, That there would be a Savior, On earth with men to dwell.
For unto you is bom in Bethlehem, A Savior, Christ the Lord today. He will save His people from all sins, There is no other way.
They foretold H e’d be bom of a Virgin, A woman who had never known a man. H e’d be conceived by the Holy Ghost, Which was the Father’s plan.
And this shall be a sign to you For thus the sign was made. He shall be wrapped in swaddling cloths, And in a manger laid.
His name would be Immanuel Meaning God with us, God said, let us make man in our own image, And man was made from dust.
Then suddenly with the angels appeared, A multitude o f heavenly hosts that day. Praising God with all their might, And here’s what they did say.
For unto us a child is bom Unto us a son is given And the government will be upon His shoulders This treasure sent from Heaven.
Glory to God in the highest glory, Peace on earth good will to men. And after their praising was finished They returned to Heaven again.
His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, the Prince of Peace. The Mighty God and Everlasting Father, O f His government will be an increase.
As the angels were gone away, The shepherds said at last, Let us now go to Bethlehem, And see this thing that has come to pass.
W e w o u ld lo v e to h e a r fro m y o u ! Please send us your poetry, with permission to print in an upcoming issue of T he M ountain Spirit. 28
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E x ce rp ts from the N o v e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 1995 Moun tain Spirit
Mountain Spirit The Magazine of the Christian Appalachian Project
The November - December Theme The Christian A ppalachian Project has always been involved in developm ent o f some kind: economic development, human development. In the last several years, C A P’s has become more involved with community developm ent which fits weel with the goal o f helping people to help themselves. Community developm ent involves group determination o f areas that need im prove ment. On page four, y o u ’ll learn how CAP workers helped a church group to help a m em ber o f its community.
Original photo by Peggy Gabriel
Building Houses, Building Community by Casey Sterr
W hile thinking about C A P’s desire to help other groups, I was rem inded o f the story o f the five loaves and the two fish. In this passage, Jesus’
Original photo by Casey Sterr
disciples come to Him and ask Him to dismiss the crowds so that the people can go into the village and
In the same way, CAP tries to help provide for
find food. Jesus replies, “They do not need to go
other organizations’ desire to help those in need. The
away. You give them something to eat.”
Sand Gap Christian Church was able to provide the
Jesus seems to be telling His disciples that they
workers to accomplish the home repair project. But
have a responsibility to help the people. They can
they also needed the materials. For this project, CAP
not turn away and do the easy thing - dismiss the
provided the building materials.
crowd and forget their needs. Rather, He provides an
By doing these things, CAP and the Sand Gap
example o f how they are to w ork tow ard supporting
Christian Church are saying “Yes” to the call o f
those in need.
Jesus to respond with actions. 31