The Mountain Spirit - Fall 2007

the

, .

mountain Christian Appalachian Project V o lu m e X X V I

N o. 3

F all 2 0 0 7 Is s u e

the Lord’s Goodness Elderly Services making a difference in Appalachia

In this issue ■ CAP Family Takes a Train Ride ■ CAP and Ichthus

2007 ■ Building on Faith Builders for Christ

Reader Services TO CONTACT US by phone: (859) 792-3051 toll free: (866) 270-4227

Contents

Features

Mountain Spirit Staff

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 Amy Schill Sister Robbie Pentecost Virgie Gabbard Jen Luoma Russ Taylor

SUBSCRIPTIONS The Mountain Spirit is published four times a year. The annual subscription price is $20.00.

Subscriptions and other correspondence should be sent to:

Photos

Dwelling in the House of the Lord

Adelia McIntosh enjoying the Lord’s goodness

4

The Mountain Spirit Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511

Shawnna Carney Amy Schill Margaret Gabriel Jen Luoma Financial information about the Christian Appalachian Project can be obtained by contacting us at 6550 South KY Rt. 321, P.O. Box 459, Hagerhill, KY 41222 or 1-866-2704C AP (4227) or as stated below. Colorado residents may obtain copies o f registration and financial docu­ ments from the office o f the Secretary of State, (303) 894-2680, www.sos.state.co.us/ re: Reg. No. 20023006807. FLORIDA: SC-0009 A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, W ITHIN THE STATE, AT 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia:

Copyright, 2007, 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.

A full and fair description o f the programs and activities o f Christian Appalachian Project and its financial statem ent are available upon request at the address above. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary o f State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: Our license num ber is MICS9933. Mississippi: The official registration and fn an cia l Information o f the Christian

CAP & Ichthus 2007

CAP providing youth opportunities

Appalachian Project may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary o f State's office by calling 1-888-236-6167. NEW JERSEY: INFORMATION FILED W ITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIO NS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT W ERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.niconsumeraffairs.aov/ocp.htrn#charitv.

New York: Upon request, a copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing to the Charities

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 I. 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 for 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.

VI. To involve the Appalachian people at all social and economic levels in developing solutions to poverty.

2

Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy o f its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of the Christian Appalachian Project may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Departm ent of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office o f Consum er Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218.

W ashington: The notice o f solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation A ct is on file with the Washington Secretary o f State, and Information relating to financial affairs o f the Christian Appalachian Project is available from the Secretary o f State at the toll-free number for W ashington residents: 1-800-332-4483. W est Virginia: Residents may obtain a sum m ary of

Viewing the World Through RoseColored Glasses

A Participant’s Story

the registration and financial documents from the Secretary o f State, State Capitol, Charleston, W V 25305. REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF THE CHRISTIAN APPALACHIAN PROJECT BY THE STATE. As a 501(c)(3) charity, CAP is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions allowable by IRS regulations. Funds received in excess of what is needed to support this min­ istry will be distributed to other CAP missions. For additional information on CAP missions, visit our Web site at www.chrlstlanapp.org.

Random Thoughts.................... 3 Words of W isdom....................10 Departments Around the Project.................. 14 Appalachian Recipes..............26 Backporch Poetry....................28

RANDOM THOUGHTS

A Spirit of Praise

by Russ Taylor, Outreach Manager

1 think many times we dwell too much on our problems and forget our bless­ ings. Someone once said “we major on the mess” but I say “lets not major on the mess, but major on the Master” for in Him, all things are put together and held together for them that love Him and praise Him with their life.

The Psalmist said in Psalms 117: 1. Let all the nations give praise to the Lord; let all the people give Him praise.

2. For great is His mercy to us, and His faith is unchanging forever. Praise be to the Lord. Think about what the world would be like if all its peo­ ple would praise the Lord.

3. For all the blessings of God, all the time and for eternity.

Think about what the world be like if we realized that it’s only in God’s mercy.

4. We are who we are and have what we have.

Think about what the world would be like, if we were faithful not to turn back to our sinful ways and would just keep praising the Lord all the time.

Paul preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ said in Romans 15:11“And again, give praise to the Lord, all you Gentiles; and let all the nations give praise to Him.” We praise the Lord, because He has sent His Son into the world to give us reason to praise Him for our salvation, for small things, large things and humongous things.

We praise the Lord because He is unchanging. He is the same yester­ day, tomorrow and forever. Therefore, Praise ye the Lord!

2 Samuel 7:29 “Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever before You; for You, O Lord God, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house o f Your ser­ vant be blessed forever.”

Praise the Lord with me all you people for His mercy endures forever.

On The Cover Adelia McIntosh, an Elderly Services participant, tends to her garden.

On The Back Members of CAP’S Icthus team enjoy a musical performance during the festival.

Visit our NEW website www.christianapp.org CAP Hosts the Annual Benefit Golf Event Read about Operation Relief Response Learn about Corporate Donations Request Volunteer Information Support CAP through Honors and Memorials Learn about Impact! Changing Appalachia

m

m

m

- r'\

The Lord is my light and my Adelia McIntosh sparkles

with a goal o f decreasing their

hen she talks about her

isolation and increasing social­

children, grandchildren and

ization.

great-grandchildren. “I

Although many o f the people

have four children living,

who participate in the CAP pro­

ten grandchildren, six

gram have children and grand­

great-grandchildren

children, those family members

and one on the way,”

have often been forced to move

she says with par­

away from the area in order to

donable pride. Adelia receives

find employment and are unable

services from CAP’s Elderly

to care for elderly parents and

Services program in Owsley

grandparents. In addition to giv­

County, one o f about 40 men

ing folks opportunities to

and women who participate in

socialize with others in the

the program. CAP offers ser­

county, CAP provides transpor­

vices to elderly people in eleven

tation and makes referrals to

counties in eastern Kentucky,

other CAP programs or other

.¿¡N’K'*

salvation; whom do l fear?" Psalm 27 agencies. Mostly, though, folks

she says, is part o f a close, car­

In 1983 Adelia traveled for

like Adelia have someone to

ing community o f friends and

the first time to Owsley County

look in on them and make sure

church members.

with her friend Ruby Cavins,

they are healthy and happy.

Although Adelia was bom in

who she had met at a revival

Elderly services workers

Stanford, KY, she moved with

service. After she met Ruby’s

say that the greatest benefit of

her family when she was four

cousin Estill, Adelia returned

their job is the relationships

years old to Florida because of

to her office in Cincinnati just

that develop with the men and

issues with her father’s health.

long enough to tell her cowork­

women they visit on a regular

After moving to Ohio with her

ers that she was getting mar­

basis. Jennifer Eitel has worked

mother, Adelia married and had

ried and returning to Kentucky.

for CAP for five years and has

her children. She worked for

“Actually, I was already mar­

been an elderly services case­

several years in Cincinnati as

ried,” she says and admits that

worker for about two years. She

a welfare worker, connecting

although the action was both

visits elderly folks in Owsley

children who received welfare

romantic and impulsive, it is one

and Jackson counties, and says

to medical and dental services,

that she never regretted. “He

that her visits with elderly

often driving them to doctors’

was a good man,” Adelia

citizens are a joy. And Adelia,

and dentists’ offices herself.

says simply.

5

Estill McIntosh was the pastor

With pride, Adelia gra­

has either done repairs herself or

of the Cow Creek Pentecostal

ciously shows visitors through

directed and instmcted church

Church of God, a church he had

the church, pointing out the

members in the work. They have

built in 1949. The building still

ornate doors that were supplied

fixed the floor and the roof, laid

houses the small congregation

by her son and the pews that

carpet and replaced the ceiling

which Adelia began to pastor

were donated by a congrega­

with wood paneling. “The Lord

when Estill fell ill and she con­

tion in nearby Scoville. They

showed me how to do the car­

tinues to pastor today. “He was

had received a donation o f new

pentry, and I showed the others,”

a preacher and he used to buy

pews and Adelia was able to

Adelia says.

cattle and horses and trade them.

replace the theater seats they

The small country church is

He farmed and did a little bit of

had used for many years. The

painted bright white, with the

everything,” Adelia says. “He

church was “ready to fall down

new pews angled in order to

built the church when they built

when I came and I told Estill he

allow a center aisle. The red

the road through the county. It’s

had to do something about it,

carpet and red covers on the

like a bam, but it serves

but he didn’t want to spend the

choir pews behind the pulpit

the purpose.”

money.” Over the years, Adelia

give warmth, and a trace chain

"The Lord showed me how to do the carpentry; and I showed the others..." holds the ceiling securely in place. A tiny cemetery adjacent to the church has the graves of Estill and another church mem­ ber who passed. “I ’ll be buried next to Estill, and anyone else who wants to be buried can, and it w on’t cost them anything,” Adelia says.

In addition to pastoring her church, Adelia enjoys working in her bountiful garden.

6

The Sunday morning

"For a while people said they didn't know if I would -■> , 1 ■' - '-¿fa, • ■A-A" live, but I knew the Lord /’ s isn't through with me yet."

Adelia has had severe health problems in the last few years, such as cardiac problems requiring open heart surgery and breast cancer.

congregation averages about

building that was tom down not

live, but I knew the Lord isn’t

20, “sometimes more, some­

long ago, “But I want to move it

through with me yet. I had an

times less,” Adelia says. Most

out and use the building as a fel­

awful time with that cancer,

o f them live near the church on

lowship hall,” Adelia says.

though.”

Highway 28, although one lives

As Adelia describes the work

Jennifer refers to Adelia as “a

on the other side of Booneville,

she has done and the work she

survivor,” and says that she has

the county seat nearly 20 miles

still envisions, it’s difficult to

considered learning how to use

away. The congregation includes

believe that she has had severe

a computer. “She’s interested in

young and old people, although

health problems in the last

keeping church records with it

they don’t have any young

few years. Cardiac problems

and learning how to do her bul­

children.

requiring open heart surgery

letins electronically,”

and breast cancer for which

Jennifer says.

Adelia’s comfortable home is on the same property as the

she received chemotherapy and

During the summer Adelia

church. Between her house and

radiation, have taken their toll.

lost a treasured companion, a

church is a building that was a

“But I ’m doing better now, and I

calico cat who died at the age of

store that Estill ran many years

think I ’m going to be all right,”

about 16. Adelia adopted the cat

ago and currently stores furni­

Adelia says. “For a while people

after her daughter, Doris, was

ture that was salvaged from a

said they didn’t know if I would

a victim o f domestic violence.

7

from the Lord. But they know the right way, so you have to keep praying and encouraging them.”

Although she has always been a church-going woman, Adelia never envisioned preaching to a church filled with people, but when Estill grew ill, Adelia felt the call to take to the church’s pulpit, although she does not preach every week. “There was nobody else to do it,” Adelia says matter-of-factly. “I just pray and ask the Lord what to say.

H e’ll show you what to do and give you the words to say. I do more teaching than preaching because we don’t have a Sunday School.”

Psalm 27 is Adelia’s favor­ ite scripture: “The Lord is my Adelia enjoys visiting with Jennifer Eitel, CAP Elderly Services caseworker.

Slowly, with dry-eyed emotion, Adelia tells of the murder of her grandson and daughter who were shot by Doris’ husband a week before Christmas 13 years ago. “She was the only one [of my children] who was saved, so I knew she was all right, she had gone to be with the Lord,” Adelia says. “A friend told me that Doris had done what she

" People themselves afraid, but if they trust the Lord, they will he okay."

came here to do, and the Lord took her.”

8

growing up, but knows that

Adelia made sure to take her

“sometimes when children get

children to church as they were

away from home they get away

Adelia and Jennifer inspect Adelia’s garden for produce to harvest.

light and my salvation; whom

Adelia’s children and grand­

With Adelia’s leadership,

do I fear?” A framed picture

children live in Ohio, California

the people o f the Cow Creek

with the psalm is displayed in

and Arizona. They visit her

Pentecostal Church o f God

Adelia’s sitting room. “People

occasionally, and now and then

strive to be good citizens and to

make themselves afraid, but if

travel to Owsley County and

help people anyway they can.

they trust the Lord, they will be

take her back to Ohio, where she

They reach out to people in need

okay,” she says.

visits Ruby, EstilTs cousin and

in the community and live the

Although Adelia’s house and

another friend, Teresa Puckett.

words o f Psalm 27: “I believe I

church are a considerable drive

“The three o f us are like sisters,”

shall enjoy the Lord’s goodness

from town, her neighbors keep

Adelia says and laughs.

in the land o f the living.”

her from feeling isolated. She

Adelia stays busy although

enjoys living in the country rath­

her illnesses have forced her to

er than in town, where she lived

slow her pace a bit. “I do what I

in both Florida and Ohio. “I

can, then stop and rest. But I try

feel freer in the country,” Adelia

to do everything I can. I’ve been

says. “It’s wonderful. You can

blessed here. People have been

do what you want with nobody

good to me, and I ’ve been good

staring at you.”

to them.”

9

Don't let what you can't do interfere with what you can do.

Some people weave burlap Into the fabric of our lives, and some weave gold thread. Both contribute to make the whole picture beautiful and unique.

Good friends are like stars — you don't always see them, but you know they are always there.

An expert is someone who knows more and more about [ess and fess; until eventually be knows everything about nothing.

We always believe our first love is our last, and our last love is our first.

I have often

regretted my speech, never my silence.

Be alert to give service, w h a t counts a great deal in life is

what we do for others.

If you really do put a small value upon yourself, rest assured that the world will not raise your price.

The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness; to an opolerance) t a friend} your heart) to your child; a good example; to a fatherf ; to your mother) conduct that will make her proud of you) to yourself, respect) to all men} charity.

Donating stock to the Christian Appalachian Project is easy and conve­ nient. The benefits include: Claiming the market value of the securities as a tax-deductible contribu­ tion (as opposed to the cost basis).

Avoiding capital gains tax, local and state taxes on the profit from the sale of securities.

Lowering the cost basis o f the gift.

To transfer stocks in certificate form, you will need a stock power form, which we can provide at your request. Please do not siun the back o f the actual stock certificates. Sign your name only on the stock power form.

Your bank will need to certify the stock power form with a medallion guarantee. We will fill out the remainder o f the form. Enclose a note to explain your intentions (i.e., “I wish to donate X number o f shares o f Y Company to the Christian Appalachian Project, and sign note). When you are ready to transfer, please mail to us the unendorsed stock certificates and the signed stock power in separate envelopes.

If your stock is held electronically with a broker, please instruct your broker to call Clinton Long at Fifth Third Bank, Lexington, KY, at 859455-5231. Clinton will handle the transfer.

The actual value o f the gift is the amount of the mean value of the stock on the day it is received in the CAP office, or the day the electronic transfer is completed. We will notify you once the stock is processed, and send you an acknowledgement letter to use for tax purposes. Our official name and address is: Christian Appalachian Project 322 Crab Orchard St. P.O. Box 511 Lancaster KY 40444-0511 In order to avoid the capital gains tax, donors must give the stock directly to the Christian Appalachian Project. It is the policy o f the Christian Appalachian Project to sell stock immediately upon receipt.

For your convenience, the Christian Appalachian Project has a brokerage account estab­ lished with Clinton Long, Fifth Third Bank, 250 West Main St, Ste 100, Lexington, KY 40507-1755, Phone: 859-455-5231, Fax: 859-455-5454 Clinton.Long@53.com Institution number: 2116 Account number: 38 38 000 6210496 If you would like more information, please contact the Major Gifts Department at 859-792-3051 or gvickers@chrisapp.org.

11

Dear Friend of The Mountain Spirit, As you read The Mountain Spirit, we hope that you will be blessed by the heartwarming stories of the people of Appalachia.

As a supporter of the Christian Appalachian Project, you are a part of 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 com­ ments with us to be published in an upcoming issue of The Mountain Spirit. Please feel free to share your thoughts, poetry, recipes and prayer requests below.

r —" — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — Name:______________________________________________________________________ Address: City:.

State: Dear Editor,

□ Ves, Please share my comments in an upcoming issue o f The Mountain Spirit.

C h r is t ia n

A ppalachian PROJECT

It’s so wonderful to read true life stories of Appalachian residents life’s being changed for the better, by the caring people of CAP’S organization.

I pray for God’s continued blessing of CAP, its staff and volunteers! Organizations and people like you make the world a better place to live in. My prayers and support are with CAP!!!

Love Always, Muruwet O. Gerfen Port St. Lucie, FL

Dear Editor, Every year my husband, John Robert, and me - and at least 1 of our sons (we have 4) would go up to the mountains. We loved the beautiful trees, the cool weather, the nice people - my sons are men now - my husband is up in Heaven - and I can’t get to the hills any more. I do enjoy sending a few dollars each month - makes me feel good. Say hello to Sue Sword. She sends me nice letters.

With warm regards, Dolores Cowan

Each time I read your publication I feel like a true member of the CAP family. I have experience with many service organizations, but CAP is the only one where I’ve been welcomed with open arms. While cash is imperative, we know we can contribute in other ways with items and our time. CAP engages us and tells us in detail what they’re doing.

Elizabeth Santangelo Coopersburg, PA

(A (wm ohM...

I was born in southwest VA. Raised in Jonesville, Big Stone Gap and Dunbar Hollow (coal mining camp).

My dad was a coal miner dying at age 57 from black lung disease. I knew what it meant to be without some full meals and hand me down clothes made from flour sacks - was my wardrobe. But Dad and Mom relied on friends and mostly on the Lord to raise 3 boys. My grandmother also lived with us which was the way it was at that time. No nursing homes.

On Sundays, my Dad took us boys to the mouth of a coal mine and told us never to go any further.

I listened to him and joined the U.S. Air Force right out of school. I found a place that gave me free cloth­ ing, food and shelter. I retired 34 years later in 1988.

The military is not for everyone but it was God’s way of letting me escape the region. I retired with the highest rank an enlisted man can achieve. God has blessed me with 3 grown children and 5 wonder­ ful grandkids. I wish I could do more for CAP. My prayers are with the staff and people.

My granddaughter is a sophomore at Appalachia State University, Boone, N.C. I am urging her to volunteer next summer for your camp!

Carl MCConnell Maryville, TN

13

around the proj ect 14

Employees and Volunteers Enjoy a Day on the Tracks

The CAP family enjoyed a day of fun and fellowship.

On July 27 of this year, the CAP fam­

numerous interactive displays and exhibits along the

ily was treated to a wonderful day o f fun

way designed to educate visitors that the area has a

and fellowship that included a train ride, a

rich mining history.

museum and beautiful scenery. CAP board member Dwayne King invited all CAP

A big thanks goes out to

employees, volunteers and their families to

Mr. King for providing such

enjoy the all-day outing. He sponsored the event and provided meals and train rides

a fun family outing!

free of charge to all attendees.

Beginning at the Big South Fork Scenic

Approximately 325 people attended the event,

Railway and Museum, the ride on the

which was located in McCreary County in southeast­

16-mile round trip train ride took passen­

ern Kentucky. Everyone had a wonderful time riding

gers along the 100-year-old Kentucky &

the train, eating lunch and touring the museum and

Tennessee Railway and included stops at

grounds. A big thanks goes out to Mr. King for pro­

Blue Heron Coal Mining Camp and also

viding such a fun family outing!

the mining camp of Worley. There were

C h r is t ia n A pp a l a c h ia n P roject , I n c .

Charitable W ,

OULD YOU CO N SID ER

MAKING A G IFT TO THE

Uniform Gift Annuity Rates Single Life Age Rate

Age

Rate

5.5% 5.6 5.6 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.9 6.0 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7

73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90

6.8 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

55 56 Pr o je c t a n d r e c e iv in g 57 LIFE INCO M E? 58 59 60 This is possible when you fund 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 remain ing are used to fund the work o f CAP. 64 65 66 DVANTAGES OF A A 67 C haritable Gift Annuity with 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 C h r is t ia n A p p a l a c h ia n

chia for years to come.

and over

Please use the following information to calculate my charitable gift annuity Name (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss):________________________________________________________ Address:

Telephone: (

Zip:

State:

City: 1

Birthdate Month:

Amount of Gift Considered $_____________________________ Frequency of Payment Desired: □ Annual Ü 2 times/year ($2,500 min)

Day:

Ül4 times/year ($5,000 min)

Year:

Ü M onthly ($10,000 min)

u y e s , I am interested in a Two-life Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.

Name of Second Beneficiary:_______________________________________ Birthdate:____________________________ P le a se C o m p l e t e & Re t u r n t o :

Christian Appalachian Project Planned Giving Department P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511

(all in f o r m a t io n p r o v id e d is c o n f id e n t ia l )

The Christian Appalachian Project: providing opportunities for youth to put faith into action The Christian Appalachian Project made its debut as a corporate sponsor of Ichthus 2007 held in Wilmore, Kentucky. Ichthus is an annual event held in Wilmore to promote youth ministry and to propel young people to deepen their faith.

Through worship, performances and teaching events young folks are encouraged to more fully live out their faith. In many ways it is a Christian concert for three to four days, along with other opportunities to celebrate and embrace one’s faith.

As a Corporate Partner, the Christian Appalachian Project had a strong presence at the festival. Through the sea of blue shirts with the words “Rise Up . . . Reach Out” on the back, participants in this year’s Ichthus event were made aware of what the Christian Appalachian Project is and our ministry throughout the Appalachian region.

As a Corporate Partner, the Christian Appalachian Project had a strong presence at the festival.

In addition to the Game Zone, CAP sponsored the very popular Guitar Hero and Dance, Dance Revolution game contests. At the sponsor tent, Pictures left to right: CAP distributed literature about their orga­ nization during the event. Megan Goble, a CAP summer camp employee, was the winner of the “I’m the One” contest.

“This is your chance to take a stand against poverty and be a true hero to someone who needs one. You can change a life.”

free T-Shirts, books, informational DVDs, back­

United Methodist Church in Richmond, plus one

packs, brochures and other items were available

each from Kansas and Tennessee.

with employees and volunteers there to answer

One added surprise of Ichthus 2007 for CAP

any questions. There was a great response to

was that Megan Goble, a CAP summer camp

requests for more information about our pro­

employee from Prestonsburg, Kentucky, was

grams and services.

the winner of the “I’m the One” contest,

Bill Mills, presi­

sponsored by

dent of the Christian

Asbury College

Appalachian

in Wilmore, KY.

Project, spoke to

Megan was chosen

over 25,000 people

out of more than

challenging them

700 contestants to

to act on their faith

sing on the main

and make a dif­

stage Saturday

ference by volun­

night. As she sang,

teering with CAP.

“Amazing Grace,” it

Bill stated, “This

was evident why she

is your chance

was the winner.

to take a stand against poverty and be a true hero to someone who needs one. You can change a life.”

CAP provided an opportunity for youth groups to have a mission experience before the festival.

Five groups signed up - New Hope Church in Maysville, Burkesville Baptist Church and First

Pictures left to right: Bill Mills, president of the Christian Appalachian Project spoke to over 25,000 people. CAP had a very strong presence at the festival where people wore the light blue CAP shirts.

17

around the proj ect

Builders For Christ Commit to a Month of Service With CAP

18

Earlier this year, CAP held a ground­ breaking ceremony for its Respite and Elderly Center, and construction began very soon afterwards. Those who are planning the center’s programming hope that, once it is completed, it will house opportunity, love and hope for the people who come to stay there.

Already from the beginning, those three things are already taking shape as the foun­ dation, walls and roof themselves take shape. God continues to bless this ambitious project in so many ways. One significant blessing has come in the form of Builders For Christ, a mission group formed over 30 years ago by David and June Reynolds and their fellow church members at East Mountain Baptist Church in Texas. Over the last three decades, Builders For Christ have traveled wherever they are needed to help with construction of buildings such as churches and the respite and elderly center CAP is building.

The collaborative hard work on the part of Builders For Christ, CAP volunteers and CAP employees is evident immediately upon arriving at the building site. What once

CAP’S Respite and Elderly Center is quickly taking shape, thanks to hard work from employees and volunteers.

was an empty piece of land between a volunteer house and CAP headquarters is quickly becoming the embodi­ ment of hard work and hope for the future. Foundations have been poured, walls shored up and a roof is quickly taking shape.

At the rate construction is going, changes are visible on a weekly basis. Thanks to all involved, especially Builders For Christ, for helping make this dream a reality.

CAP Offers SelfDefense Training to Employees and Volunteers This summer has been a busy one at CAP. In addition to vacations, meetings and normal work schedules, CAP employees and volunteers were also given the opportunity to participate in self defense training. The classes, which were held on-site at several locations throughout the

CAP employee Paula Fields assists Mike Stanfill during a self defense class he recently offered.

summer, were conducted free of charge by Mike As the classes progressed, participants

Stanfill, a CAP employee.

Mike has been involved in martial arts for sev­

became more advanced in their self defense

eral years, and decided to offer to teach some of

skills, more aware of their surroundings, and

his skills to others, so that they may be prepared

more confident in their ability to survive an

in case of attack. The classes consisted of learn­

attack. Thanks to Mike and all who participated

ing evasive maneuvers and methods of escaping

for a very informative and important training!

a potential attacker.

Memorial and Honor Gift Are meaningful ways to support the Christian Appalachian Project and, at the same time, extend condolences, congratulations or other greetings to family and friends.

Upon receipt o f your gift, we will send an acknowledgement to you and your family/friends you designate. The amount will not be disclosed.

Your gift of $25.00 or more will be published in the Highlights 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 www.christianapp.org

19

around the proj ect

UP°CAP Kids Sum m er Fun

20

In the summer issue of The Mountain Spirit, we introduced our readers to our new CAP Kids program, designed to provide Appalachian children with the tools they need to reach beyond the bar­ riers that are typical to their region.

From field trips to nutrition education to computer time, the program was created to cover a gamut of opportu­ nities and activities.

Here is an update to that article, to let our readers know how well the program is progressing. CAP employee Vanessa Williams reports that the summer was full of excite­ ment and an abundance of life-chang­ ing learning opportunities. During the first week, she says, a group of 16 chil­ dren ranging in age from 9 to 14 years old visited Toyota Motor Manufacturing, where they were able to follow the construction of a vehicle from steel

frame to completed vehicle. Week two featured a visit to the East Kentucky Science Center, includ­ ing a planetarium show and a rain forest exhibit.

During week three, the group visited the Dewey Dam and Spillway, where they were introduced to flood control and how the dam’s water is released. The highlight of week four was attending the musical “Forever Plaid” at Jenny Wiley Theatre.

The group traveled to the Martin County Court House during the program’s fifth week. While there, they experienced family court and met with a judge, who explained how the justice system works. The sixth and final week was very much anticipated, as it brought about a field trip to the Cincinnati Zoo. The entire day was spent viewing and learning about animals of all kinds.

By all accounts, the pilot program was a great success this summer. It is everyone’s hope that the initial successes seen in this program will radiate outward and reach as many Appalachian children as possible.

B ring tlie joy i C hristm as to those in need.

The Christian Appalachian Project 2007 Holiday Catalog is filled with items that will touch the hearts of some of the poorest people in America.

The items included are not gifts someone will tuck away in a closet - they are gifts that may very well save someone’s life: the gift of safe housing and of much-needed food.

R eq u est your FREE c a ta lo g today!

Make a difference when you purchase one or more items.

Your items will serve as gifts to our many impoverished families. Or you can buy an item to give as a gift on behalf of someone on your holiday list. We’ll send them a card tellp ing them the gift was sent in their name. Gifts start as low at $25.

es! Send my FREE 2007 CAP “Tis the Season...”

Holiday Catalog.

Name:__ Address:.

City:___

State:

□ Send me more information about your quarterly magazine, The Mountain Spirit. □ Fm interested in becoming a CAP volunteer! Please send me more information.

Mail to: Christian Appalachian Project ~ 322 Crab Orchard Street ~ P.O. Box 511 ~ Lancaster, KY 40444 Tollfree 1-866-270-4227 V isit o u r n e w w e b site today! w w w .cliristianapp.org

In this issue, we shine our spotlight on the elderly of Appalachia. The writ­ ing that follows is that of Jen Luoma, a volunteer in CAP’s Elderly Services program, and of Virgie Gabbard, a participant in Elderly Services who discov­ ered a gift for poetry after a debilitating stroke.

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In Virgie’s own words: On February 28, 1994,1 suffered a stroke, which has left me paralyzed on the right side, leaving me very limited as to what I can do.

After eleven weeks of rehab, and a year of home health and therapy, I learned to write with my left hand.

After returning home and being alone, I decided to write some poetry to pass the time. Thus: I got going and loved it so much I couldn’t stop. In 2004,1 pub­ lished my first book of poetry.

Now, thanks to Jennifer Luoma, who did the typing, and Mr. and Mrs. A.D. Ponder, who did the travel to make this second edition possible, (without their help I could never have made it) I have published the second edition.

The intent and hope of this second volume, is to bring to its readers faith, hope and inspiration. And may you enjoy the reading as much as I have the writing.

Virgie Roberts Gabbard August 2007

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Virgie visits with Bonnie Farmer and Leva Riley at a recent picnic.

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In Jen’s words: I have really enjoyed getting to know Virgie. One thing that I noticed immediately about her was that she literally and figuratively views the world through “rose-colored glasses.”

Her glasses have a rose tint to them!

She has such a giant heart. She is such a dear elderly woman who can do so much for herself even after suffering a stroke. She is very humble, however, and needs the assistance of her devout sister, Leva, to manage.

Virgie told me about how she had her stroke and was at first living with one of her sisters. When her sister passed away, she was unable to stay by herself. Her younger sister, Leva, lived in a trailer a little ways away and just put in a new storage building behind her trailer. Virgie asked if they could fix up the storage building as a one-room apartment for Virgie to live in. They did it! Virgie lives in such a simple but beautiful storage building.

Everything she needs - her hospital bed, lift chair, motorized wheelchair, and most importantly her Bible and poem notebooks are all close by. Leva is next door to do most of the cook­ ing, drive her to the doctor and be her family. What an amazing duo of sisters, so caring and generous of their time for each other. They are the last remaining children in their family.

I took them to visit their brother, Wiley, when he was still alive in

the nursing home in Nicholasville. I drove them the hour and half to get there, they would stay and visit with him all day, and then I would drive them home. They would go visit him every opportunity they were offered, from me or other neighbors. Virgie wore herself out to go visit Wiley for two weeks straight when he lived out his final days. It broke her heart to lose another family member, but it makes her more excited every day to be reunited with them all in Heaven.

Virgie enjoyed when I put up Christmas decorations for her. It’s amazing how a string of lights and garland can brighten up someone’s day.

One of the most exciting break­ throughs I had with Virgie was hiring Daniel Boone Transit to bring her to a picnic with other elderly participants.

Daniel Boone has vans with lifts that can transport people in their motor­ ized wheelchairs. I found out that Virgie had never been anywhere in her motorized wheelchair. She always had to bring her fold-up wheelchair and rely on Leva pushing her around.

The day of the picnic, Virgie was all smiles. She whisked circles around everyone, being self-sufficient with her motorized wheelchair. We took a

tour of an old village up on Sand Lick Road and she signed the guest book, “I’m having the time of my life.” She was not limited that day one bit by her disability. It was beautiful. Since then, Virgie and Leva have both told me that they’re looking forward to going to the Thanksgiving gathering at Camp AJ that they’ve always had to pass up in the past due to Virgie’s situation with getting around...this year, she’s coming in her motorized wheelchair!

Throughout the year, CAP’s employees and volunteers tirelessly give of themselves to make sure that people like Virgie are loved and cared for. For every Virgie, there are count­ less others eagerly waiting for a famil­ iar CAP vehicle to pull up at their home. Jen and her co-workers will attest that the rewards far outweigh the demands of the job. *Read one o f Virgie Gabbard’s poems on page 28 in Backporch Poetry.

23

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V<i a h t t e t v

by Amy Schill, CAP Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator

moment of pure generosity.” It is in community that this generosity can develop and blossom in CAP’s service programs.

The Jackson Volunteer House The center of CAP community life is the volunteer house. Though some volunteers choose to find their own CAP’s Volunteer Program has three guiding principles, housing, most live in one of CAP’s five volunteer houses, or pillars, that reflect what volunteering for Christian and volunteers who do live independently participate in Appalachian Project is all about: Service, Spirituality and volunteer house life by joining the house for dinner and Community. We use the three-legged table metaphor to prayer several nights a week. A CAP volunteer house is so illustrate the importance of each pillar—all are essential much more than a modest dwelling to shelter our volun­ to keeping volunteer life balanced. Because CAP is a teers during their stay—-it is a place of fellowship, self-dis­ Christian volunteer organization, the service and spiritual­ covery and most of all, fun. Friendships are formed, more ity aspects are the most obvious. Though “community” than a few practical jokes are played and a skilled baker might not be the first thing that comes to mind when can always find housemates willing to try a new treat. Our people think of volunteer life, it is an absolutely essen­ tial—and exceptionally rewarding—component of the CAP houses are a source of pride for our volunteers, and years later volunteer alumni write their own revisionist histories volunteer experience.

Whether a volunteer serves with CAP for a week, a sum­ of how their community was “the best volunteer house mer or a year, he or she does so not really as an individual, in CAP.” Volunteer houses are a starting point for road but as a member of a unique community of volunteers who trips, lively discussions, and, though dating is not exactly encouraged, a few romances. Many former volunteers have share a common commitment to serving families in need met their spouses through CAP, and we’ll forgive them with the understanding that all progeny will be future CAP volunteers.

Our volunteer houses are an integral part of the CAP volunteer experience, and we are so grateful for friends such as you who make it possible for CAP to provide plac­ es where our volunteers not only live, but also have an opportunity to grow spiritually and enrich the lives of in Appalachia. CAP’s volunteer communities are incred­ their housemates. ibly diverse in terms of life experience, education and Within their communities, CAP volunteers find sup­ background. This diversity lends itself to a rich community experience where recent college graduates may realize that port for each other’s service work and an environment to retired grandmothers can still run circles around them, and nourish their faith. If you would like more information to become a part of one of our volunteer communities, visit where someone who has never cooked can learn there’s our website or contact us at 1-800-755-5322. We’ll leave more to the culinary arts than BLTs. As of this writing, CAP has 42 long-term (serving 9 months or longer) volun­ the light on for you.

Amy lived in the Owsley Volunteer House during her two teers from 20 different states who range in age from 21 to years as a volunteer. It was the best house in CAP. 77. One visitor to a CAP volunteer house called our vol­ unteers “a collection of [the] best and brightest caught in a

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Are you tired of boxing up items you don’t want or need?

Mail all items to: Debbie Adams Christian Appalachia Project 322 Crab Orchard Street Lancaster, KY 40444

We would like to ask you to send us items to sell on our online Attic Store. The monies collected from the sales help to fund our missions, which include our outreach efforts to families that need the basic necessities of food and shelter, our hous­ ing department that provides valuable rehab work for families and our elderly, and most of all necessities for our children.

Our Attic is operating through the non­ profit division of eBay, which is called Mission Fish. So far this effort has not only brought in monies, it has also in­ troduced CAP to thousands of people who were not aware of our work in Appalachia.

We ask that during your fall clean out, if you have jewelry, furniture, kitchen and housewares, knickknacks and especially antique items, you consider donating them to us.

If you like to shop or would like to list the items yourself, please visit www.missionfish.org. for the Christian Appala­ chian Project and you will find us.

We thank you for all you do from m of our hearts. ja H llw B B IK B S K B

You can help make a difference.

A Spiced Nuts 1/2 cup pecan halves 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon butter In a plastic bag toss pecans with sugar and spice until well mixed. Melt butter in a skillet on medium heat; add pecans. Cook and stir until lightly toasted. Spread pecans onto wax paper. Cool completely before serving.

Sausage and Pepper Stew 3/4 lb. hot italian sausage, cut into 1/2 inch slices 1 green pepper, chopped 1 stalk celery, sliced 2 tablespoons flour 1 can (14 oz.) beef broth 2 cans (14-1/2 oz. each) diced tomatoes, undrained 2 cans (15-1/2 oz. each) kidney beans, drained, rinsed Cook sausage, pepper and celery in large saucepan on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes or until sausage is no longer pink. Drain liquid and add flour. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Stir in broth, tomatoes and beans. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes. Serve stew with crackers.

Honey-Glazed Pecans and Beets 2 lb. beets, washed and trimmed 2/3 cup pecan halves 3 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons orange juice

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place trimmed beets on greased foil-lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 1 hour or until tender. Combine pecans and honey in small skillet and cook on medium-high heat for 4 to 6 minutes.

Mixture will be simmering and foamy. Immediately spread onto greased baking sheet and set aside to cool. Mix olive oil, orange juice, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Peel and quarter beets and place in medium bowl with oil mix­ ture. Sprinkle with the honey glazed pecans.

Autumn Sour Cream Cake 3 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 2-1 /2 cups sugar, divided 1 teaspoon vanilla 6 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup chopped walnuts Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix flour and baking soda in small bowl. Beat butter and 2-1/4 cups of the sugar in a large mixing bowl with mixer until light and fluffy. Blend in vanilla. Add 1 egg at a time, beating well after each egg. Alternate adding flour mixture and sour cream, mix­ ing well. Pour half of the batter into greased and floured 12 cup fluted tube pan. Mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl stirring in walnuts. Sprinkle over batter in pan and top with remaining batter. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes and remove from pan.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOFUTE KECIPE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHAKE? 26

R ECIPES

W IT H YO UR FAMILY A N D FRIENDS...

Easy Turkey Pot Pie 3/4 cup milk 1/4 cup sandwich dressing 1 tablespoon flour 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped 1 package (10 oz.) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed 1 cup shredded cheese 1/4 cup onions, chopped 1 ready-to-use pie crust Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix milk, dressing and flour in large microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes or until thick, stirring each minute. Add turkey, mixed vegetables, cheese and onions; mixing together.

Spoon into pie plate and place pie crust over filling. Seal the edges of the pie crust to the rim of the pie plate. Cut slits in crust to allow steam to vent. Place on baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes 1-1/2 lb. potatoes, unpeeled and quartered 1/2 cup sandwich dressing 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1/2 cup shredded cheese In large saucepan cover potatoes with water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; cook for 20 minutes or until tender then drain. Mash potatoes and add dressing, bacon, garlic powder, salt and pepper; beat until fluffy. Stir in shredded cheese until blended.

Hot and Spicy Fall Drink 3 cups boiling water 1 package (8 servings) orange gelatin 1 qt. (4 cups) boiling apple juice 8 cinnamon sticks In large bowl stir boiling water into dry gelatin for 2 min­ utes until completely blended. Stir in boiling apple juice.

Make 8 mugs. Serve hot with cinnamon sticks.

If so, send us a recipe card in the envelope provided or write to us at: Christian Appalachian Project, Publications Department P.O. Box 511, Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 27

The Things That Used To Be Since I’ve grown old, not able to work, With nothing I can do you see, At night, 1 lay awake and ponder, About the things that used to be.

I grew up during the depression, I know what it means to be poor.

I had to work, just like a mule, To keep the wolf from the door.

Large families were common when I grew up.

At one time we was twelve in number.

It took 6 double beds and 5 bedrooms, When night come for us to slumber.

Our homemade dining room table, Was more than 8 foot in length.

We all worked hard and ate hardy, That’s how we kept our strength.

Our washing was done on an old washboard, With homemade soap of grease and lye.

I often think as I look back, How did we ever get by?

I have ironed all day with two smoothing irons, That was heated by an open wood tire.

While one iron was in use, the other was heating, Oh, how my back would tire!

No fan or air conditioner, just a big hot fire, The temperature outside about 85.

Do you wonder after 86 years, That I am still alive?

It don’t take wealth to be happy, For I was happy back then.

It don’t take fine clothes to wear, For my clothes was shabby and thin.

It don’t take a lot of leisure time, 28

For we was busy all day.

We didn’t have time for gossip, We didn’t have time for play.

God is love, and to be happy, We must seek His guidance from above.

It doesn’t take a lot of worldly pleasures, But it does take a lot of love.

Money was scarce when I grew up.

I have worked for 50 cents a day.

Back then a day was 10 hours, not 8, Can you imagine a nickel an hour for pay?

Do you think I’m ashamed to tell this to you?

Not on your life, I am not.

I was raised by God-fearing parents, And brother, they taught me a lot.

We ate what we grew, and grew what we ate, That we earned by the sweat of our brow.

I can tell you it was good eating, I wish I had some of it now!

Our home cured meat was far better, Than anything bought from the store.

Triglycerides, cholesterol, starch and calories were unknown, We ate till we couldn’t eat more.

Tonight as I sit all alone, No one around but God and me, Oh how I’d love to go back now, To the things that used to be.

But I realize now, it’s too late to look back, For I am too near the end of the track.

I’m longing for that glorious day when— I will meet my big family once again.

June 50, 2001 Virgie Gabbard

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Past E x c e rp ts from the J u ly - A u g u s t 1999 M o u n ta in S p ir it The July - A ugust Theme The demographic pattern tells us that the elderly population o f the area is growing as the birth rate declines. This pattern is common in other areas o f the country, as well, and we know that the shift will place a greater demand on resources that are already stretched. An ob­ vious change will be the increase in the num ber o f the elderly people in eastern Kentucky. This

Appalachian Demographies

A Latin Influence

Original Photos by Margaret Gabriel

trend will place new demands on C A P’s elderly services programs, which benefits eleven coun­ ties in the region w ith transportation, help with chores and simple friendship.

Somebody to Talk Story and Photos by Margaret Gabriel

Zayda (manager of elderly services in McCreary, Rockcastle, Jackson, Owsley and Madison counties) and Melissa (manager of elderly services in Floyd, Magoffin, Knott, Lawrence, Martin and Johnson counties) like to keep the number o f participants each worker serves to 40-50, and the services provided to each person are tailored to meet their needs. It’s just this side of impossible to get a description of a typical day because both Melissa and Zayda say there is no such thing as “typical” day.

“It all changes every day,” Zayda said. “People have to be able to know when they wake up in the morning their whole day could change.”

Often, workers schedule their days around the need elderly folks have for transportation, although they like to focus on activities that keep the program from being more than just a transportation service,.

“Most of the time, when we get a referral from a

Melissa, elderly services manager in Hagerhill, speaks to an elderly par­ ticipant who dabbles in oils and acrylic painting.

doctor or a home health agency, it’s for transporta­ tion, and if they need transportation, that clues me in to something else,” Melissa said. “It’s telling me that they probably don’t have any family support.” So the other services that the program offers might also be welcome.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHRISTIAN APPALACHIAN PROJECT 322 CRAB ORCHARD STREET LANCASTER, KY 40446 THE MOUNTAIN SPIRIT

Christian Appalachian Project