Duck Ponderings: Calling all Ducks to help HSJ Online

For 36 years, I had the honor of serving this community and school system through the unforgettable and wonderful experience of working with fifth graders.

We were referred to as the “Mighty Duck Jets” due to my nickname being “Duck.” We learned some valuable lessons through watching the “Mighty Ducks.” A team speech about remembering our roots was emphasized. Then, there was the very ending showing ducks flying in a V formation. It gave us an opportunity to discuss how when a class works together like ducks in flight, there are amazing accomplishments.

We would continue with another important point. Ducks always watch out for one another, even at night, as the one on each end sleeps with an eye open while the other ducks sleep fully. We live in a community which heritage, teamwork, and caring are evident.  All of you have long been out of fifth grade, and many of you fit into the chorus of the following song by Tim McNamee, leader of the Hauserboyz:

Class of 82 (A Friendship You Just Can't Fake)
Yeah we were farmers and teachers and housewives too
Yeah we were doctors and lawyers and police/fire men too
And I know it sounds crazy and a little absurd
How the worst of us sinners is now preachin' the word
Yeah we lost a little hair and our muscle cars too
But I'm proud to be part of this class, Class of 82

For 10 years now, I have been involved with our local newspaper, first at the Hope Star-Journal and now at HSJ Online. Recently, we had an HSJ Online benefit. Why a benefit you might ask?

Well, when Larry Simpson, former owner/editor/publisher of The Hope Star-Journal, died suddenly of a heart attack, I was a part of a group of people hoping to keep a local media source. We felt the best way would be by making it online and not-for-profit. Much has been accomplished in five years while many small town, even large town, for-profit newspapers are no longer around. We have been very fortunate to be able to meet our budget each year due to the community's support.

However, a not-for-profit organization is dependent on the support of many. So, I am asking former students to consider sponsoring “HSJ Online.” There is  an electronic option here. 

A list of “ducks” already involved increases with each year. Scott Mings, now a financial adviser, meets with us each year in the conference room at Raymond James to provide valuable input toward our budget. Vickie Tedder, one of three sisters managing WILLow LeaVes, sponsors a business ad and is very generous with goodies at our Yearly Review and Celebration as well as a dinner at our Yearly Benefits. Diane Burton, Hope Town Clerk-Treasurer, and Adam Miller, Haw Creek - Flat Rock Area Endowment Board Member, make sure we follow through on grants through the Hope Town Council and the Endowment. Stephanie Shoaf and Terri Young bring their expertise from The Hope Star-Journal to  HSJ Online as members of our team. Shelley Young writes an excellent column, “Fresh From The Farm.” Brock Harris, Jessica Brown, Scott DeBusk, Paul Bunting, Avery Tallent, and Tim McNamee (yes Tim, I claim you as a Cross Cliff kid) recently played major roles in our second annual benefit.

Of course, you don't have to be a former student. If not in a position to make a monetary contribution, then you can help us by reading, sharing on Facebook, and letting others know that we do indeed still have a local media source. You should feel free to contact me with suggestions. In fact, we have a new website that is more picture and video friendly due to collaborating with young people from a class in the IU Kelley School of Business. 

And, I know of many other local worthwhile causes that would greatly appreciate donations. Our town pages continue to turn, and our community remains strong due to residents' giving attitude.