September, 2006
On Tuesday, September 12, dozens of young people representing high school from the Kentucky River area meet at Hazard Community College to take part in a special conference held to address tobacco, alcohol and other drug abuse issues among youth. The goal of the conference was to education the youth of the area about the dangers and consequences of drug experimentation, use and abuse, and to make them aware of alternative activities. Students were also presented with ideas that would help them encourage others to remain or become drug-free. Information concerning various topics were presented to students in several mini-sessions. Topics of discussion included efforts to overcome tobacco use in Kentucky, the dangers and consequences of DUI and effects of various drugs. Information concerning sources of help and rehabilitation were also presented. The conference was organized by The Kentucky River Community Care Regional Prevention Center with funding provided by several agencies, including The Breathitt County KY-ASAP Local Board.
One of the big events for us last week was our annual picnic at Douthitt Park. It was a fun event. I think everybody had a good time. It was good to just be in a different location. The kitchen staff prepared a good lunch which they carried in. The prepared barbecued pork chops, green beans, sweet potato casserole, home made rolls, and we made s’mores for dessert which everybody enjoyed. Some want to do that again. We played some games- corn hole, cards, washer toss, and horseshoes. Had fun with some patriotic and “oldies” songs. Etta White came by to lead the singing for us. She’s always willing to share her talent which we appreciate. Hiram Sizemore delighted us with a solo, and all the men got together for a song dedicated to the women present- all of whom attend the center regularly. As the saying goes,” A good time was had by all.”
There is something a little odd about Caleb. He looks very sweet, and sometimes is, although there is another side to this little guy.
In case you don’t already know, Caleb is my nephew. He is three years old and has just started preschool. Caleb is the average height and weight of an older boy. He has just now figured out that he can use his height and weight to his advantage.
Full moon over Slick Rock Hollow. Spectacular! Did you see the September moon over your hollow? Meteorologist Bill said this moon was 10% bigger. I didn’t hear his explanation, but I believe it. If you didn’t see it, plan to watch the growth of the October moon. Becky and Steve saw the full moon over the waters at Myrtle Beach just before the tropical storm moved in. Perhaps sometime I can experience that too. On the other hand, I’ll wait until I see other magnificent scenes over the River of Life, or over Ezekiel’s River! Talk about spectacular! (Ezekiel chapter 47)
Last week was a busy one with many special visitors visiting the classroom. We had discussed How to Stay Safe. We were privileged to have these visitors come out and provide the children with wonderful hands on learning activities. One such visitor was Detective Doug Gay from the Kentucky State Police. Mr. Gay talked with the children and then finger printed each child. The children were allowed to take these home to share with their families. Another special visitor was Mrs. Karen Davis from the Breathitt County Extension Office. Mrs. Karen read the book, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” to the children. After the book, the children made their own nutritious lady bugs. The children enjoyed making the delicious bugs and eating them as well.
Sunday morning was special at Morris Fork Chapel. We were all delighted to have one of our own grew up in the church, not only to be with us but she presented us with beautiful music, which included a song she had written. I’m speaking of none other than Janice Stamper, who has been visiting her Dad this week. We were also happy to have her friend Jenelle, whom she brought along. Most everyone knows Janice is an ordained Presbyterian Minister, who has been pastoring for many years in Alaska. We are always happy for Janice to come. She hasn’t changed and seeing that same sweet smiling face reminds us so much of her mother, Mary, whom we all still miss playing the organ on Sunday morning. This family has been an important part in Morris Fork Church since its beginning. Ed is out and about but is still recuperating from an accident he was involved in two weeks ago, in Jackson, when he was hit from behind a truck. We look forward to Janice’s return.
Morris Fork Craft Fair is Saturday, September 23, 2006, beginning
A “Making a Difference for St. Jude” event benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be held on October 7, 2006 in Jackson, Kentucky. The Volunteer Coordinator for this event is Mrs. Wanda Mullins, who encourages everyone to participate.
By participating in or attending the event, you will help raise funds for children of the world who are stricken with diseases like cancer, AIDS, and Sickle Cell Anemia. These funds will help St. Jude in its ongoing fight against childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases.
“You get a line, I’ll get a pole, Honey!
You get a line…
Kentucky greetings, Woody readers. Please excuse my singing, but I am PAWSatively excited to be on tour! Mom, Dad, Chloe and I are in the Woody Bus, I mean, Woody Boat, traveling down the river. “Why a boat?” you ask? Remember when Dad told me the Woody Bus wouldn’t start? Dad tried everything, but nothing worked. Chloe and I were afraid the tour would be canceled, but Mom reminded us that winners didn’t give up. “Woody, how do you think people traveled before cars?” Mom asked. “I thought cars had always been around. I was born in 1999 and they were around then.” I said. Chloe giggled and pointed out how granddaddy told us about walking three miles to school every day in rain and snow. Sure, that was fine for granddad. He was in great shape, but I couldn’t walk the Woody Tour. I could run fast when chasing butterflies, could even flex my muscles (sniff, sniff), but long distances were a different story. I was getting worried when Chloe said, “Hey! The Salt River is just down the road! We know plenty of fishermen who could help!” I kissed my sister for saving the day!
When school ended last May I was more than ready for a break. I was burned out to the extreme–on everything. School, work, living in the dorm, writing this column, my friends… everything. I was physically and mentally worn out and didn’t really want to do anything for awhile.Considering I had worked full-time and gone to summer school the previous summer, I figured I was long overdue for a break from it all.
A single leaf fell from the tree. It’s demise seemed so untimely. It was still green and appeared full of life, yet there it was, falling gently to the green grass below. The warm air was still as the leaf came to rest all alone under the big tree that remained full of greenery.
I thought to myself, “I suppose fall is near, just a few days of summer remain, and surely all the other leaves will be falling from the tree soon. One leaf had to be first and I guess that was it.”
