Shane Pippin
Staff Writer
Held at the scenic Pine Mountain State Resort Park, the Ray of Hope’s first annual fundraiser was headlined by several successful women, including the wives of two U.S. congressmen.
A poster board display stood in the lobby. The display’s fringes contained quotes from famous people about helping and protecting children. The middle part of the display was filled with quotes from abused children.
“These quotes are all from local children,” said Jessica Jordan, Ray of Hope staff member. “If anyone reads these, they will see clearly what kind of need we are facing. You read these quotes about pain and abuse from scared children in our own county and you will certainly be moved.”
ROH is a children’s advocacy center located in Pineville.
Gina Johnson, ROH executive director, spoke for briefly about child abuse, giving statistics and reinforcing the reason for the organization’s existence.
Commonwealth Attorney Karen Greene Blondell, followed Johnson at the microphone and moderated much of the night’s event.
Blondell affirmed the need for ROH. She suggested continued support will enable ROH to do more, noting Bell County needs the services ROH can provide.
After dinner, Blondell announced an anonymous donor had written a $3,000 check to ROH.
Blondell thanked state Rep. Rick Nelson, D-Middlesboro, who attended for helping the commonwealth attorney’s offices receive much needed funds for supplies.
Lynn Duncan, wife of Congressman John J. Duncan in Tennessee, was also a guest who spoke in the opening of the night’s festivities.
Duncan acknowledged her friendship with Hal and Cynthia Rogers.
“The last time I saw Congressman Rogers, I reminded him of the final score when UK played UT in Knoxville this past basketball season,” said Duncan. “I see that Cynthia is still proud of Kentucky as she is wearing her blue coat tonight.”
Cynthia Rogers, wife of Congressman Hal Rogers, was the keynote speaker. Rogers was viewed as the keynote for the event, along with the other influential women present. All of the ladies lauded the efforts of ROH.
Local businesses donated gifts for the fundraiser, including Angie’s Florist, Bell County Chamber of Commerce, Bell County Extension Office/Homemakers, Bissell Office Supply, Cash Express, Cindy Whitt, Dr. Richard Barnett, Lincoln Memorial University, Massage by Jackie, Pine Mountain State Park, Pineville Pharmacy, Red Balloon Celebrations, Rustic Charm Candles “n” Mini Melts, and Slate Hill Baptist Church WMU.
A beautiful harp was played by Linda Cupp as guests entered and again as dinner was served.
ROH board members honored and asked to stand and be recognized are Jade Blankenship, Karen Greene Blondell, Billie Booth, Karen Doolin, Baylor Fulton, Debbie Hill, Mike Long, Dr. Michael Peterson and Sharon Teaney.
The ROH staff was also formally acknowledged. Staff members are Lindsay Bertrand, Jackie Frazier and Jessica Jordan.
Reach Shane Pippin at 606-248-1010 ext. 204, mpippin@civitasmedia.com
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