Happy Holidays. With everyone trying to keep their lives running and preparing for the magical days that December brings, I have simply some random thoughts I wish to share with you. We must remember, (maybe believe is a better word), despite the tough times that we are all in, that the very gift that all of us can have and give is there within each of us already. It's that love, that care, that support and that sharing this life that matter. Not just the material, but the thread of love and sharing. We worry and scurry to give the best and the biggest, myself included, and often overlook the real purpose.

I want to share a word of support and thanks to Lisa and Frank Minney, our tireless leaders. They have done yeoman's work with this magazine; it is really a work of love. Think of them as they travel this time of year to get the magazine you’re holding into your hands.

I am a huge supporter of bluegrass and hillbilly music. What I should say is that it's more Appalachian traditional music than just "hillbilly," but I am one, and so therefore I use the term with great love and respect.

There is a growing drop in the number of young people who are keeping the craft of this wonderful music alive, and that troubles me. There is positive news, however. Glenville State College has a degreed course of study in bluegrass music. That, and there are several young people scattered around our region that can flat tear an instrument up, or singe rafters when they sing. I only wish and hope more parents and grandparents share my beliefs and will make that initial investment of an instrument to a young person who seems to have the drive and desire to learn and work hard to make the music of our rich heritage. Don't misunderstand me, it's not to make them a big "rock star." It's simply to make the very best music that proudly represents our history and heritage. Mack Samples could explain this concept well. Imagine giving this one small investment that would pay off with a lifetime of the enjoyment of music, both playing and sharing it.

Besides love, I couldn't think of a better, more respectful or longer-lasting gift than the gift of music.

And as another year of our lives comes to a close, we must reflect and plan for the next. For me, the challenge of being a single parent of a beautiful ten year old will always be my life's greatest gift and challenge. In my work as a radio broadcaster, I have had to adapt during the years of my career to major change. I even left it once, but it called me back.

There is a bottom line. Forget my career, forget my economic struggles, forget my problems. Why? Because, in this single year alone, I have met real angels. To call them simply "people" or "friends" would be untrue. The way that they have touched mine and my daughter's lives with simple love and care is by far the greatest gift I could ever ask for.