Berea College's Great Commitments Relay

Day 42

2006-05-15T08:42:00.000-05:00

The last day started out with a little weather uncertainty but mother nature was on our side. We forged ahead with a 24 mile bike ride between McKee and Berea with five Berea alumni, faculty, and friends. Steel Hinton, came in from Flemingsburg, KY and Doug Chute and Nancy Ball came all the way from Wise, VA. John Harmon and Mark Nigro reside right here in Berea.

The final leg and last half mile to the finish line started at the Berea Municipal Utilities parking lot on Harrison Rd. We were thrilled to have at least 77 alumni, faculty, staff, students, and trustees walk the triumphant procession into campus via Short Street where we were greeted by our Berea family.

Once on Short Street we enjoyed delicious kabobs, “B” shaped pretzels, and popsicles. We also enjoyed remarks from President Shinn and Chair Libby Culbreth of the Berea College Board of Trustees. Following the remarks and closing prayer from Rev Randy Osborne, we were entertained thoroughly by the Berea College Bluegrass Band and the Berea College Country Dancers.

Thanks to everyone (dozens of folks) who helped make these past 42 days such a success! Particularly, a special thanks to Mae Suramek, Will Jones, Bill Laramee, Nancy Shinn, Crystal Baldwin, Eric Waller, Sonja Williams, Chris Schill, Tim Jordan, Bridget Carroll, Julie Sowell, Jay Buckner, and Rosemary Dreager. This relay wouldn’t have happened without them!

Signing off for the Berea College Sesquicentennial Great Commitments Relay and Goodwill Tour in Berea, Kentucky on Friday, May 12th, 2006 (okay, I'm really going to stop now...),

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 41

2006-05-12T06:32:00.000-05:00

Thursday – coming soon!

Here are some pictures from yesterday’s proclamation to Jackson County Library to hold you over! State Representative and alum, Marie Rader was there to accept the proclamation from Mary Labus and three other Berea representatives; Rosemary Dreager, Missie Kelley, and Mary Kay Kidwell.

Also on yesterday’s agenda – two trustees, Mr. Bill Gruver and Mr. Mike Stitzer biked 100 miles between Hazard and Berea. Additionally, another group of seven Berea alums, staff, and friends biked 100 miles a little later in the day (David McFarland, Bunky Harkleroad, George Hunter, Ben Robinson, Cliff Sowell, Andy Sowell, and Alex Carrick). Both rides were remarkable considering the terrain, weather, and wind.

Come to the Grand Finale Celebration at 6:00 pm on Short St on College Square on Friday! If you’re joining us for the final walk – meet us in the Berea Utilities Parking lot at 5:15 (old Dresser lot). If you’re joining us for the celebration only, meet us on Short St at 6:00 pm!

See you soon!!

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 40

2006-05-10T16:42:00.002-05:00

We started this morning out at Hindman Settlement School where four of our alums call home and work. We were so pleased to meet with Rebecca Ware, Associate Director who shared with us the incredible mission of the School and took us on a tour of the campus and the new museum on site.

From there we drove through muddy rain towards Hazard where we were elated to be greeted by nine Berea alums and friends at the Circle T Restaurant. Roy Banks, ’50 graced us with his playing and singing. Sam Turner, ’54 told some good tales while the group socialized in some home made Berea hats. Did I mention that the food was scrumptious?

The conversation over lunch was a varied one and we touched particularly on the sacrifice the Fee family must have made to found Berea College. Eula Holliday, ’45 particularly felt that it must have been difficult to have been disowned by your family as Fee was. I shared a story from an earlier relay stop in Bracken County where we learned that John Gregg and Matilda Fee actually lost a daughter to death because of the harsh conditions they faced fleeing from place to place. Indeed, we have much to be thankful for!

It was special to see these folks again and to meet some new folks as well. Just goes to show you that we can never truly understand the depth and breadth of Berea’s reach as it is far too vast to capture in one moment.

Two days to go!

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 39

2006-05-09T22:09:00.000-05:00

This Tuesday morning we were joined by Roberta Allison, ’42, Alvin Allison, and their son Clark Allison, ’79. We were also joined by Rev Canon Johnnie Ross, ’80 who assisted in the planning of the day’s events.

We had a meaningful visit to the City of Prestonsburg where we received the key to the City from Mayor Jerry Fannin along with some delicious (I should know!) local fudge. The Mayor, along with economic developer Brent Graden then joined the group for a relay of the Great Commitments to the beautiful Prestonsburg mural in downtown. From there, Johnnie bravely rode the Great Commitments to the Prestonsburg city limits.

We were treated to a delicious lunch at El Azul Grande (thanks you know who!) and then traveled on to Alice Lloyd College. On our way to Alice Lloyd we ran into Berea alum Tom Rose, ’64 who followed our van into a parking lot to say hello. Our decorated van really caught his attention!

Once on Alice Lloyd’s campus we crossed the “Bridge to the Future” where we were greeted by Berea grad and Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Bill Melton, ’69. Thank you to Public Relations Director Stephanie Damron who graciously brought us bottled water to cool us off after our tour around their beautiful campus.

Later, we headed back over to Prestonsburg where we enjoyed a relay stop and chapter meeting with about 35 other Berea alums and friends at the Mountain Arts Center. Our entertainment included a viewing of Berea’s latest history video, a memorable speech by Berea President Dr. Larry Shinn, and entertainment by the Berea College Bluegrass Band (picture features BCBB member Jake Krack with Nancy Shinn wearing matching "Berea Blue" outfits).

Tonight as I write this I feel truly blessed to have spent the day with so many folks who truly love and support the Berea mission.

Feeling the “Berea love” in Prestonsburg,

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 38

2006-05-08T17:06:00.000-05:00

Today started with a meeting at the Pike County Courthouse where we were pleased to present a proclamation of friendship to Pike County Judge Executive William Deskins and Deputy Judge Sue Ratliff. Joining us at the courthouse were three amazing Berea graduates; Troy Price, ’92, Della Justice, ’93, and Dr. Wallace Campbell, ’66. We also met Troy and Della’s beautiful three month old daughter, Parker, who was cheerfully along for the journey looking pretty in pink.

Dr. Campbell read about Berea’s proclamation to Pike County in the Appalachian News Express and decided to join us. He serves as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at Pikeville College where he assists the 800 students attending there. We had the opportunity to walk up the 99 steps leading into campus and found out later that Pikeville’s slogan for years has been, “you take the first step.”

Della and Troy assisted us greatly with our day in Pikeville. You might recall reading about Della in an article in the New York Times last year that described her commitment to her region and family. She serves as a lawyer in Pike County while Troy serves with the National Children’s Alliance. The two of them are an incredible tag team who feel fortunate to have found Berea College. They continually give back in many ways and feel passionate about Berea’s mission.

Troy led John and I to a Hatfield-McCoy historical site in Pike County. As we walked through the Dils Cemetary gazing at the McCoy family graves – particularly the graves of Sarah and Randolf McCoy, it occurred to us how important it is to settle old disagreements. Today, the Hatfields and McCoys now have a huge family reunion in Pike County in June. They have even signed a peace treaty!

Over and out,

Amy Harmon, '99

Day 37

2006-05-07T19:28:00.000-05:00

We woke up this Sunday morning to the sound of heavy rain. Knowing that our itinerary today included a lengthy bike ride between Whitesburg and Pikeville by Doug Chute, ’85 I thought I’d better make a call. I was really amazed when I spoke with Doug to learn that he was still planning on riding. In fact, the rain was appropriate for Doug as he feels that Berea represents water in many ways.

Doug blessed us with a beautiful prayer reflecting on the significance of the rain before he and friend Nancy Ball took off up the treacherous ride with a 6% grade most of the way (not to mention the strong wind and rain that pelted them for three straight hours).

Doug’s wife Tammy and grandson Nathanial led the journey by car and provided amazing encouragement and support to both Doug and Nancy as they biked. I learned from Tammy today how important it is to support the ones you love as she lovingly dried Doug’s bike seat with a towel after every break. She also poured cranberry juice and provided trail mix to both riders.

By the end of the ride, I think we were all a little soaked. I was reminded of the many days on campus as a student when I had forgotten my umbrella as I walked to class. Sometimes it’s a good thing to leave with out your umbrella from time to time just to remind yourself that going without helps you appreciate what you have.

Signing off from Pikeville,

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 36

2006-05-07T19:20:00.000-05:00

“The sun shined bright on my Old Kentucky Home…”

Reporting from Harlan, KY where Dr. and Mrs. Greg and Carla Dye (both 1994 graduates) and their son Edmund along with Berea friends Dr. Laila Guindi and Mr. Sherif Guindi (mother and son) came to participate in the relay. Edmund carried the Great Commitments to the Harlan County Library where we presented Berea’s new history book (by Shannon Wilson) to Ms. Thelma Creech (her son, Ben Creech attended Berea). Afterwards, the Guindi family bravely ran five miles towards Whitesburg up a VERY steep incline.

From Harlan we went to visit a true Appalachian treasure – Appalshop. While there we met with Board Member and staff person for over 20 years Valeria Ison. We were surrounded by sounds of a fiddle workshop in progress and even saw some familiar Berea friends there.

On the route between Whitesburg and Harlan we were surprised by a couple of roaming bulls RIGHT ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD!

Since the three us are Derby enthusiasts, we were really thrilled to be invited to the famous Brock Derby Party in its 30th year in Harlan. Once we got the van up the mile long gravel climb we were elated to be greeted by Harlan’s finest, many of whom had a Berea connection. I also had the good fortune of choosing Barbaro as my pick even though I was unfortunate in that I hadn’t put any money down!

Following the Derby party we were pleased to spend a little more time with the Guindi family in their beautiful Harlan home. Following a delicious tea with milk and sugar, we even went to the Dollar Theatre with Sherif to see Mission Impossible. As far as movie reviews go, I’d give this one well…..I’ll let you be the judge.

Sleepy and happy in Harlan,

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 35

2006-05-05T18:15:00.000-05:00

Our morning started with a visit to the City of Pineville, home of the Mountain Laurel Festival, where we were joined by alums Gwen Barton, ’68 and Barbara Asher, ’68. Two beautiful mountain laurels themselves, Gwen and Barbara actually went to high school and college together and have remained close ever since. Both were elementary education majors at Berea and both went on to be teachers in Bell County. Now that they’re both retired they participate in many local community service projects together and remain teachers in the continual learning sense.

Speaking of teachers, Mayor Bruce Hendrickson of Pineville is a high school teacher himself at Pineville City High in the science department. He informed us that many students from Bell County find Berea College. Crystal Baldwin encouraged him to continue to consider students who might be a match for a Berea education.

For lunch we went to the historic, and delicious, Flocoe Drug Store serving hearty soup beans and corn bread in downtown Pineville. Directly across from the restaurant was the Bell County Courthouse with a fabulous clock that reminded us of the courthouse in the 1980’s film titled Back to the Future. Barbara Asher even said that she just knew that Michael J. Fox would come out of the courthouse any minute to greet us.

Following lunch we bid farewell to Gwen and Barbara and headed towards Pine Mountain Settlement School in Harlan County. On the winding road we encountered several dozen coal trucks and even stopped to get some footage of a coal mine in operation.

Once on the grounds of Pine Mountain Settlement School we were greeted by Executive Director Nancy Adams. She shared some of the School's Berea connections, including our own President Larry Shinn's contributions on their Board.

Following our visit to Pine Mountain the rain came just as we were making our trek over a VERY big mountain on a VERY little road to Harlan. It was like driving up and down a lampshade and I have to admit that I liked the challenge. I felt like I was back in my home "holler" of Drip Rock, Kentucky located in Estill County. The strange familiarity of the unknown roads I was traveling reminded me that Berea had prepared me well for any challenge by first connecting me to my past.

Until tomorrow, signing off from Harlan, KY-

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 34

2006-05-05T17:18:00.000-05:00

Reporting from Pineville, Kentucky this is Amy Harmon, ’99. I’ll be joining the blog for the remaining eight days of the relay as we wind up for the Grand Finale Celebration in Berea to be held on Friday, May 12th at 6:00 pm on College Square.

I feel blessed to begin this last part of the journey not only with members of the fantastic Berea team like Crystal Baldwin but also with my husband, John Harmon, ’95 who joins me. John came to Berea from Charleston, West Virginia and continues to be the first and only one in his family to have graduated from college. He’ll not only serve as a wonderful alum volunteer for the remaining days but also as a husband who knows “when his woman needs him.”

This morning we started our day at the beautiful campus of the University of the Cumberland’s where we were introduced to Mr. Harold Hubbard, ’58, a business professor who has been on staff there for over 30 years. Mr. Hubbard was on campus for Berea’s 100th year and had many fun memories to share, such as the introduction of rock n’ roll to Berea’s campus.Joining Mr. Hubbard were five administrators and staff from the University, including one who has a son attending Berea! We were pleased to receive such a warm reception and were eager to share the mission of the relay which has been to raise awareness in the communities we visit about Berea’s history and contributions, particularly the Great Commitments, which charge us to demonstrate, “God has made of one blood all peoples of the Earth.”From Williamsburg we headed east to Pine Mountain State Park where we climbed a three mile ascent by “sasquatchian van” to the top of the mountain and were greeted by hundreds of blooming azaleas and, soon to be blooming, mountain laurels.

While on a hike on a nearby trail this afternoon at Pine Mountain State Park we were also greeted by a sleepy copperhead snake lying across our path without movement. John gently moved the copperhead from our path and all four of us were left unharmed!

Tonight I reflect on the day’s activities with peace of mind and will use my husband and the experience with the snake as a metaphor if you’ll permit me. We know that there are those of you out there that keep Berea going just as my husband helps keep me going. Additionally, no matter what crosses Berea’s path we feel your thoughtful support helping us clear the way for promising students in the future.

Signing off from Pineville,

Amy Harmon, ‘99

Day 33

2006-05-04T23:55:00.000-05:00

Along this relay journey, people have continuously asked me to pinpoint my most memorable encounter. The entire experience has been so meaningful and so important, that I can’t define one particularly outstanding moment. I have met so many wonderful people and have made connections with so many areas and organizations. In my most recent experiences, I have developed a renewed appreciation for Appalachia and the people who work to serve the area.

Today Amy Harmon of College Relations and her husband, John, joined the relay. Together we delivered a proclamation of thanks and friendship to Scott County Tennessee. The County Mayor gladly welcomed Berea College, as students in Huntsville have attended the College. Additionally, they invited us to attend their employee appreciation barbeque at the County Building. Due to time constraints, we couldn’t join them, but were grateful to have been invited.

We continued over the mountains along highway 297 into Newcomb, TN. We visited Crazy Quilt Friendship Center. We were awed by their fine crafted quilts, which are primarily made by women who live in surrounding mountain communities. We learned very quickly that the Center is more than great crafts and beautiful quilts. They serve the area by offering second hand clothing items at a low cost, as well as provide between 80-200 people with food through their in house food bank. Around the holiday season, they provide gifts for about 600 children, including families in eastern Tennessee and Kentucky. It was an honor to meet the Crazy Quilt staff and volunteers who devote their lives to the area through providing quilt making jobs and serving the children, children that may someday attend Berea College.

Today, on my last day of writing the blog, I’d like to thank everyone for reading. I’ve had both an enjoyable and enlightening voyage. I’ve seen the peacefulness of the countryside by driving the windy roads from 10 mph to 50mph. I’ve noticed the deep beauty within so many of the people who inhabit the area. The most rewarding of all my encounters tied to the relay are the ones that involved you. I’ve been stunned by Berea College alumni and friends in elevators, at gas station parking lots, at restaurants, in local grocery stores, at shopping centers, in city halls and at county office buildings, etc. Everywhere we have been on this relay journey, Berea College and our mission has been positively received with familiarity, excitement, and friendship. It has become clear to me within traveling 1,855 miles that because of the support Berea College has from the community, another 150 years of providing education to the Appalachian community and beyond is feasible.

Best to all of you!
-From Jellico, TN
Crystal, '04

Day 32

2006-05-02T23:45:00.000-05:00

I met Tandy McConnell, class of 1980, for the first time last night as we met briefly to discuss details of the morning’s bike ride. I knew in the first few moments of meeting him that he was a kind-hearted generous man. I should have been able to read this in his personality, since he drove from Charlotte in order to participate and offered to bike no less than 30 miles!

Today, the relay departed from the Secret City Commemorative Walk at the Civic Center in Oak Ridge, TN. The walk is dedicated to thousands who founded Oak Ridge between 1942 and 1949, who worked in the nuclear research facility or made another contribution to their community through their work. Among the names are Fay and Charley Hale, who attended Berea College. Fay worked as an educator and Charley in the national lab.

As we walked through the monument, becoming more aware of the city’s past and paying respects to the lives that formed it, the clouds above us rolled into thick gray formations. A storm was on its way. Within the first 10 miles of our mostly uphill relay ride, the rain came. First the sky fired warning shots of water and then it came crashing in buckets. As each drop pelted against the windshield of the Berea College van, Tandy, who was biking approximately 10-12 mph up hill and 30+ mph down hill, was getting hit with the same drops without a shield for them to splat against. ---He kept going. Prior to the ride, as we anticipated rain, he insisted that he wouldn’t stop unless it ‘really’ stormed. He never stopped. With in time the rain ceased, leaving Tandy soaking wet.

After about 23 miles of vigorous peddling, we gave Tandy a short break in Wartburg, TN as we stopped to deliver a proclamation of friendship to Morgan County. The County Executive, Becky Ruppe and her assistant, Carol, met with us briefly and spoke highly of Berea College.

Just up the road in Sunbright, TN Tandy located just about the only restaurant in the area, Lou’s Diner, where we stopped for lunch. We indulged in some good home country cookin’, including the unforgettable ‘corn nuggets.’ The locals in the diner were more than friendly and eager to tell us of the diner’s recent filming by the Food Network just last week! For Lou’s Diner, having visitors from the outside is becoming a commonality!

After completely stuffing ourselves, we returned back to the relay route only to be faced with more twists, turns, and steep hills! I’ve personally dubbed Tandy ‘the AMAZING TANDY,’ because of his determination, optimism, and triumph throughout today’s course. I was personally thoroughly impressed with his skill. As it turns out, I wasn’t the only one who noticed either! An innocent cow grazed in a field nearby our route. As Tandy rode past, her head followed until he was out of sight! Additionally, despite all the obstacles; the rain, the cold that came with the rain, the dogs rushing after him (he told me not to worry about the dogs), the MAC trucks prepared to take over the road, and some rude drivers, he didn’t complain. As I trailed behind him slowly and carefully in the decorated van, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of ammunition he had inside of him, pushing him to continue. So, I asked him why he chose to participate in the relay. His answer; he wanted another way to give to Berea College, because Berea had done so much for him.

Today, the Amazing Tandy completed about 53 miles, mostly uphill, biking from Oak Ridge, TN, through Wartburg and Sunbright, bringing us to our final destination in Huntsville, TN. With the city sign in plain view, Tandy threw up his arms in celebration and personal accomplishment. –What an amazing way to celebrate a birthday, Berea’s birthday!

Thank you Tandy!
-Crystal

Day 31

2006-05-02T23:19:00.000-05:00

Happy May Day everyone! Today marks the one month completion of the Great Commitments Relay! Our team, volunteers, and participants have all done well to ensure that the relay process runs well and smoothly! Thus far we haven’t had any serious problems and I am thankful for that. It's hard to believe that we have only two more weeks until the Grand Finale on May 12th.

Today Chris and I thanked the people of Knoxville and Knox County for their friendship and support through a proclamation to the area. Mayor Ragsdale was kind to meet with us despite the busy time of year given that election day is tomorrow. On behalf of the city mayor, Rus Jensen in 311 met with us. Prior to our meetings, we faced a small parking dilemma, though city officials directed us to park in the garages, upon arrival, we learned that our vans wouldn’t fit. Don’t worry! We didn’t discover this the ‘hard way,’ we simply read the clearance sign and realized that if we fit at all, it would be a very tight squeeze! Amazingly, it wasn’t too difficult to find a free meter and lot for the vans. One reason that parking may have been available is because downtown Knoxville offers a free Trolley service! I thought this was great, because it encourages sustainable practices, as well as preventing traffic congestion in downtown!

Before I sign off for tonight, I’d like to take you back to yesterday. I know, I already wrote a fairly long entry, but I feel that it is necessary. I want to thank everyone who has participated in Alumni Events thus far. Essentially, they would not be a success without your participation. Both the Knoxville Chapter at the Historic Laurel Theater and the Young Alumni Event at Calhoun’s can be considered successful, because so many of you were present! I could probably guess over 100 reasons each of you chose to attend the events without ever really knowing why. Maybe it was the anticipated spectacular performances by the Berea College Bluegrass band and the Country Dancers. Maybe it was because you knew that I was going to be there. Whatever the reason, you should let your area Chapter Coordinator know, so that we can collaborate in making the meetings a continuing success.

Signing off from Knoxville, TN.
-Crystal

Day 30

2006-05-02T00:26:00.000-05:00

Today Sandra Fleming, class of 1975, and her nephew, Meredith Owens, who attended Berea in 1989, joined the relay as we drove the Great Commitments to the Highlander Research and Education Center in New Market, TN. The Center is located on rolling farmland placed comfortably in the heart of the Smokies. Buildings with octagonal picture windows sprinkle the land. The view of the buildings when looking on them is equally as beautiful when gazing out of them. The Center brought a sense of comfort and ease; perfect to fill its purpose while teaching, educating, and inspiring. Charlie Biggs welcomed our group and we learned historical tid-bits of the Highlander Research and Education Center from the great legends and musicians, Guy and Candie Carawan.

The Highlander story is something of a phenomenon, with involvement and leadership action in the civil rights movement and the environmental justice movement. Since 1932, the center has been bringing together workers, grassroots leaders, community organizers, educators and researchers to address the most pressing social problems that face people of the South. The Center, with an accessible library and open rooms setup for full circle discussions, provides a perfect opportunity for people to gather and share information. As Charlie explained, “everyone comes to highlander with knowledge equivalent to a piece of the pie and leaves with the whole pie,” because everyone educates each other. Among those who shared education at the Center include Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, and Guy Carawan. I know that I mentioned him earlier, but I must talk about him in detail to point out that the Berea College relayers were in the presence of a famous, history-influencing man!

In the times of the civil movement, the songs that people sang to confront racism in their communities were often older transformed songs. Among them is the famous song, “We Shall Overcome,” which originated from “I Will Overcome,” sang in many Methodist and Baptist churches. Guy Carawan succeeded the Horton’s who founded Highlander. Through his persistence in teaching “We Shall Overcome” to Highlander students and particularly leading the song among sit-in leaders at Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, the song became the signature song of the Civil Rights Movement! I could not believe that only moments before learning this information, I had grasped hands with him in meeting, fore I have before attempted to sing the song myself on several occasions.

In Berea, I have had the opportunity to participate in the Martin Luther King day celebration by marching from Union Church to the City Hall. With other members of the Berea community, I sang for freedom and human rights for all people. In the moments that I sang, I thought I understood the meaning of the song, “We Shall Overcome.” It wasn’t until visiting the Highlander Center that I came to understand the song’s value.

-Leaving Highlander with a few more pieces of ‘pie’/ knowledge.

Crystal

Day 29

2006-04-29T16:42:00.000-05:00

Hello again. I, Crystal Baldwin, join you again for a few days as the relay makes its way through the Eastern part of Tennessee. As today mark’s the date of the Cosmopolitan Banquet and Senior Recognition at Berea College, where students, faculty, staff, and friends gather to “share traditions from the four cardinal points of the world,” I hope to share with you customs and culture that I learned about today on the relay in Newport, TN.

As I write this blog, I can still hear the children’s voices hum in my ears. Their laughter, enjoyment, and curiosity bring happiness and instant peace. This morning, Melvyn Megson, the class of 1966, his wife, Iris, step-daughter, Bonnie White, step-son-in-law, Bob White, and all eight of his step grandchildren, Robert, Cory, Augustina, Nicholas, Haley, Charlotte, Ashtyn, and Kallie joined the Great Commitments Relay as we learned about the Japanese Buddhist Religion and celebrated peace. The ages of the children range from two years old to fourteen and half years old. As residents of Eastern, TN, all of the children may be considered for admission at Berea College in the future, provided they apply. Currently, the eldest, Robert approaches his junior year in high school with a hope of admission into Berea College. Melvyn spoke passionately about his desire for all of the children to attend Berea College, as his experiences at Berea have influenced his own life.

I really felt fortunate to spend this segment of the relay with Melvyn’s family, especially since the Megsons are in the middle of a relay of their own. Though once in retirement, since last April, Melvyn and his wife are now in the business of expediting, which involves driving a large cargo van to deliver products. In their travels they have been over 115,000 miles and every state east of the Mississippi river! It seems we should have asked them to carry out the Great Commitments Relay! 1,855 miles would be nothing for them! Adding onto their mileage, Melvyn and his wife drove from Pennsylvania, where they had been working, to Newport in order to support Berea College as participants of the relay.

Today the relay journey began in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express, where Chris Schill and I met all 12 family members. We piled in the relay vans and two extra cars to go to the Great Smokey Mountain’s Peace Pagoda, where a peace ceremony was to be held. On our drive to the destination, I learned a very important lesson; the road to peace is unpaved and very steep. As it turns out, the Peace Pagoda is located at the very top of a mountain! To give you an idea of exactly how steep it is, in the last two tenths of a mile visitors are asked to either walk or use a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach the destination. The children dashed up the hill as I safely and quietly took photographs from behind. Haley, 9, stopped for a break or two, which made us instant buddies. Ashtyn, only 5, walked the hill like a young hero and Kallie, 2, comfortably glided up the hill in her parent’s arms.

Once the hill leveled, there awaited the most beautiful view of Newport, TN and the Temple where Tutsumi and Denise greeted us. They are Japanese Buddhists who promote peace among people in the world. In their temple, all are welcome and accepted, which created an ambiance of harmony and a safe haven for learning. They invited us to join their Flower Festival Ceremony, which is held to celebrate peace and invite spring. Our group offered magnolias and nasturtiums from the Berea College greenhouse, which Denise plans to plant around their temple. During the service in the temple, our flowers were placed at the alter with many others. Attendees sat with their knees on cushions, each equip with a drum. On each side of the alter were large taiko style drums with the drummers tapping out the rhythm for all to hear and follow along. The heavy pounding sound brought me back to a talent show performance that occurred when I was a Berea College student. A group of students who had studied abroad in Japan during the month of January performed together as a taiko drumming group, sharing the culture they had learned in their abroad experience with others. In this ceremony of promoting and sharing peace, I suddenly became more appreciative of the cultural experiences that I had been exposed to as a Berea College student. I then thought to myself, “Having been a student from a small-town in Vermont, how open to learning about other cultures would I be if I hadn’t attended Berea? Would I be here today?”

I’m not sure if I can answer those questions about myself and my life. But what I am sure about is that today I joined with Berea College alumni, potential prospective students, and current friends to celebrate peace. In doing that we learned a lot about each other, our likenesses, our differences, and we had an enjoyable time.

The Great Smokey Mountain Peace Pagoda is currently under construction, and will be located at the highest point of the mountain where the temple sits. There are two other Pagodas in the U.S. and 80 in the world. All are made as demonstrations where people can gather to promote peace.

May the peace that I feel now as I sign off from Newport, TN be with you all wherever you may be reading this blog.

-Crystal

Days 27 and 28

2006-04-29T12:17:00.000-05:00

Well, after having two busy days and without internet access, I bring this, my last Blog, as a summary of my Relay time through Georgia and North Carolina. We have seen city officials, alumni, men and women off the street, good days, bad days, sunshine and rain, walkers, bikers, young and old, rich and poor...

On Thursday we met with the President of Warren Wilson College in North Carolina, Dr. Orr, who was very gracious and sent us out with gifts even as we came bearing gifts. The historical and present day ties with Warren Wilson were interesting to learn. Warren Wilson used to be a two year school and many of its graduates would transfer to Berea College to finish their education. Warren Wilson has a labor program and they place a real effort in being a sustainable and environmentally friendly campus, just like Berea. And, since the campus is nestled right in amongst the Appalachians, their commitment to the people, and students, of Appalachia is the same. President Orr was so glad that we came to visit, in fact, that he showed us a top secret picture of his "on again, off again," musical band. President Orr and two Berea College alums comprise the three man show of Elvis-clad singers "touring at a venue near you." Well, I am sure they are by "special request" only, but it was an honor for Sonja and I to see this photo and the lighter side of the president. So, be sure and not to tell him I told you about it.

Thursday night we had a special chapter meeting at the Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, North Carolina. This YMCA affiliated complex is located basically on the side of a mountain and has very beautiful scenery and accomodations. In fact it was founded by Willis D. Weatherford Sr., a Trustee of Berea and whose son, Willis D. Weatherford Jr., was President of Berea College. There were a good segment of Berea Alumni who attended and even a nice group of people that were not affiliated with Berea but heard about the event and wanted to come and learn more. A.J. Caudill, Chef at Boone Tavern, made a dinner and did some food demonstrations for the crowd gathered, and everyone shared some of their Berea stories and had a good time.

Friday was probably my most inspiring day, (and no, not because it was the last of 10 straight days on the road either) because we met up with Molly Sandfoss-Moore, class of '89. She looked like a pretty serious bike rider when we met her at the grocery parking lot, but little did I know what kind of "Lance Armstrong-like" fortitude this young lady had in her. She is a sweet lady but tough when it comes to conquering mountains. Our leg for that day consisted of a short bike ride from Asheville to Trust, North Carolina, except that about half of the 30 mile trek is up a mountain!

It was a quiet ride for the most part. There were occasional toots of the horns and certain hand gestures from people that didn't understand what a momentous occasion this was, but those people were few and far between and didn't overshadow the effort made by Molly and her determination. Not once stopping she climbed and climbed with road workers cheering her on, my occasional encouragement, and Sonja's amazement, she climbed and took every switchback in stride. Molly loves bicycling, appreciates Berea and represented both well, and was an excellent ambassador of our Great Commitments.
As extra incentive for her, she wrote the names of the people who were supporting her with pledges for her bike ride on her thigh....with a black Sharpie. Grit and determination is what I am talking about here, people!

Ultimately we made it up the mountain and down on into Trust where we rested a while, (well I didn't need much rest) and drove back to Asheville. While Molly was resting, Sonja and I explained how inspired we were that Molly did such a feat, but she just took it all in stride, like a real gladiator would.
This time on the road has been hard, but rewarding and will certainly be a memory for the grandchildren to hear. "Why, kids, ol' Grandaddy Eric once participated in an event called a Relay where you walked and biked and did 'old-fangled' things like that." "And I went through several states, solidified friendships, made new ones, met grandiose people and saw strange and wonderful things."

Thanks for reading and I hope you stay tuned as Crystal takes over the Tennessee leg of the Relay. I have appreciated your comments and encouragement and thank you for all you have done in making this Relay/Goodwill tour such a significant accomplishment.

---Eric

Day 26

2006-04-26T16:37:00.000-05:00

On this leg of the Relay from Sylva to Waynesville to Asheville, we encountered both interesting and inspiring Berea alumni. They were enthusiastic and good "spokespeople" for the College about the benefits and experience they received. Juanita Coldiron, Class of '47, was with us to present a Proclamation to the Mayor of Sylva, Brenda Oliver. Mayor Oliver was somewhat familiar with Berea already, but what she didn't know, Mrs. Coldiron was more than happy to fill in the blanks. Sonja and I were both impressed with the ease and sincerity that Mrs. Coldiron told the Mayor, City Counci member and a gentleman from the local radio station how beneficial a Berea education was to her and her husband, Jack (who was the son of a coal miner in Harlan County, Kentucky). I am sure if Juanita had her way, just about everyone, worldwide, would have the experience of a Berea education.
From Sylva we went on through Waynesville and visited a couple, Dr. and Mrs. Shamsedin, Classes of '53 and '54 respectively. They invited us in for coffee and a brownie and we all told stories of our Berea College experiences. Dr. and Mrs. Shamsedin told of how they met, the mandatory Chapel services and particular fond memories of various professors they studied under at Berea. Berea College provided them both with a wonderful education and foundation to go further in their studies where Mrs. Shamsedin received her Masters in Counseling and Dr. Shamsedin received his doctoral degree.
It is always refreshing to see what kind of success alumni have received and how they attribute so much of it to the quality education they received at Berea College.

--Eric

Day 25

2006-04-25T19:38:00.000-05:00

Robert Murray, Curator at the Foxfire Museum, was something of a character but deeply passionate about his heritage and roots in Appalachia. Our journey to Sylva, North Carolina took us through Mountain City, Georgia and to the Foxfire Museum. We took a windy, mostly one lane and sometimes gravel, road to get up to the hollow where the Foxfire property stood. Marie, who watched over the gift shop, greeted us warmly and mentioned we should browse around while waiting for Robert and Lee (Lee was a nice gentleman who was there to get some information for the Foxfire Newsletter, but had his hand in helping during our tour) to drive down the hill to meet us.
Robert and Lee, Marie and Ann (Ann Moore, the Director of the Foxfire fund who was not able to meet us, but who we did catch at the end of our visit) all signified men and women passionate about their heritage and seeing that others not forget the past and in particular, the Appalachian people.
Robert was very happy that representatives from Berea College came because he understood the shared interest in Appalachia and in bettering the lives of all people, "mountain people" included. He knew personally of Berea alumni and spoke very highly of the labor and service of Berea College.
As we toured the Museum and observed the authentic Appalachian artifacts, we really got a sense of the people and stories, the laughter and tears of those who, by all accounts, were very ingenious at surviving and living in the "backwoods." Robert showed us gadgets, games, instruments that made farming easier, building easier and made the lives of Appalachians better off in many ways. This is not to say that life wasn't hard up in the hills and "hollers," in fact it could be extremely difficult, but that there were ways to use creativity and brains combined with necessity, to make a job easier, or more efficient, or even better.
It was a time in history that won't be forgotten, not as long as entities like Foxfire buses children in from miles around for tours, and Berea College continues their commitment to educating and celebrating the heritage, of the unique Appalachian people. --Eric

Day 24

2006-04-24T21:53:00.000-05:00

Our Relay path was diverted today as we visited Amicalola State Park, where lies the beginning (or the end depending on your perspective) of the Appalachian Trail. It seemed very fitting, since we are making this Goodwill Tour through the Appalachian region, that we would also visit this famous trail that runs through the Appalachians from Maine to Georgia. There are some pictures included in this blog that will remind some readers of rolling Kentucky hills and foliage. We noticed various country scenes here in Georgia's "foothills of the Appalachians," that reminded us of our very own foothills back home in Berea. It was of great comfort during this 1,855 mile tour through Appalachia and the South, that there would be people, events, alumni, friends, historical landmarks and now nature, that would remind us of home- of Berea.
That would remind us, as was said in yesterday's blog, that the Spirit leading John G. Fee 150 years ago into the wilderness to begin his journey, is the same Spirit leading us through this Georgia wilderness, today. And reminding us of our commitment to all peoples of the earth, to Appalachia and beyond.

Day 23

2006-04-23T19:19:00.000-05:00

Quite different from yesterday's periodic rain showers, today's trek northeast of Atlanta through Gainesville and Baldwin was accompanied with sunshine and warmth. One stop took us to a morning service at First Baptist Church in Gainesville, Georgia.
Sonja and I attended the late service and presented Reverend Dr. Bill Coates with a Proclamation of Thanks and Friendship. Towards the end of the service, the congregation all joined in a song "We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord..." which, of course, fit right in with our Christian motto at Berea:

"God has made of One blood, all peoples of the earth," Acts 17:26.

After the service, it was interesting to find that several people we talked to knew of Berea College and alumni in the area and all gave us a nice welcome to Gainesville and safe travels on the rest of our trip.

People of different states, backgrounds, different denominations and knowing very little of each other...all coming together, becoming One in the Spirit.

Day 22

2006-04-22T17:24:00.000-05:00

Today was a day of reunion where we visited an alumni chapter meeting at the home of Shelby Whitson, Class of '59 at her home in Atlanta. The warm breakfast she made for the alumni in attendance was a nice addition to the special guest at the event, Chris Miller, Curator at Berea College. He brought some nice artifacts from Berea's past and told a short history on the labor program at Berea and President Frost's commitment to, in particular, the Crafts of Berea College. Among the many artifacts he brought were; an egg carton when Berea used to collect and sell eggs to the surrounding region, a wooden stool from the 1930's that a student had made and two hand made quilts that were over 60 years old. Mostly the morning was spent with some reminiscing of Berea College with stories of labor positions, fields of study and friendships acquired along the way.
After breakfast, Sonja and I made our way to Emory University where we presented the recently published history book of Berea College by Shannon Wilson, to Charles Forrest, who accepted on behalf of Emory and the Woodruff Library. He gave us a brief tour and left us, too, with an autographed copy of a history of Emory University for our own Hutchins library. So, the addage is true, "give and it shall be given back to you!"
It was a rainy day here in Atlanta, but the personalities and smiles covered over any fatigue or "rainy day doldrums," anyone might have had, and everyone left us revived and ready to tackle this second half of the Relay through Appalachia and the South.

Thanks for reading,

Eric

Days 20 and 21

2006-04-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

Well, joining the great 'bloggers' that have gone before me, I thank you for reading some of my humble thoughts and feelings on the Relay as it winds its way through Georgia and North Carolina. My name is Eric Waller and am glad you joined us on this leg of the Relay, if not in person, then at least through this blog! April 20th began in Roanoke, Alabama, just on the border of western Georgia. We met with Mayor "Spec" Bonner and his gracious staff along with a fellow alum, Elizabeth Brown. Elizabeth is of the class of '56 and living in Ohio, but was raised up in Roanoke for a good part of her life. In fact Mayor Bonner and his staff remembered Elizabeth's father and brother! Of course, there were two other great alumni beside me, Sonja Williams and Amy Harmon. After we presented Mayor Bonner and the City of Roanoke (yes, named after the original city in Virginia), with a Proclamation and Berea College history book, he then returned the favor. Mayor Bonner presented us with a Proclamation of Appreciation for the 'journey' that we set out on and our mission; as well as the Key to the City of Roanoke!

As for today, April 21st, (well it is probably early morning the 22nd as I write this) we were honored with the company of the Governor of Georgia, Sonny Perdue, (the second picture above is of me, Governor Perdue and Sonja Williams) as well as the staff of the Mayor of the City of Atlanta. Both offices treated us as honored guests and were happy to receive our Proclamations, gifts and sharing of thanks for their commitment to education, equality and the betterment of mankind. Of course, this is particularly special because of Atlanta's deep history with the Civil Rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King, himself, having lived and grown up there.
From Capitol Hill, we made our way down to the Martin Luther King Jr. Center and were reminded of the recent past with the history memorialized there. To see the reflecting pool, Dr. King and Coretta's (his wife) tombs, and the words and images of the man and the Movement, it really gave me a deep appreciation. An appreciation for visionaries, men and women willing to take a stand, willing to die, if necessary, for a hope they could only see dimly.
Well, to put it simply, it was an honor to share the time with Sonja Williams, an African American woman, and myself, a Caucasion American man, standing together in honor of the Movement and representing the College- Berea College. Both entities (the Civil Rights movement and Berea College) steeped in the tradition of opportunities for all, black and white, rich or poor, man or woman.
As a side note, as we drove past the King Center to find a parking space, a man suddenly ran up to the passenger side of the van and motioned for Sonja to roll down the window. His name was "Silva B" Richardson and was bringing attention to the ring he was wearing. Would you believe the ring was inscribed with, "Berea College grad, Class of '78"!?! Mr. Richardson was visiting the King Center with some young people from his community in Ohio and just happened to be there the same day and time that Sonja and I came to visit! (He is pictured in the first picture above, he is the gentleman on the far right) He was very excited to see our wrapped van with images of Berea College and was happy to see us, as well. We took pictures and shared stories and we were all so in awe of the "coincidence." Mr. Richardson didn't think of it as coincidence though, instead, he said our 'meeting was arranged by God.' God's doing, supreme guidance from Above. May we have more of that guidance on this trip! ---Eric

Day 19

2006-04-19T23:10:00.000-05:00

It’s so amazing to travel the beaten path of our forefathers and connect with those that know history and taking proactive measures to protect and change the future. Today, the Great Commitments traveled to Alexander City, Alabama and met with Mayor Barbara Young. She graciously accepted our greetings of friendship and will share it at the city counsel meeting in two weeks. Laura Oliver, the mayor’s right hand, amiably signed while Amy and I discussed the contents of the Great Commitments.

Tomorrow will end the Alabama leg of the relay and I would like to recap and add reflection. With Berea College, being the first interracial college in the South, the people of the South really lent a listening ear and extended welcoming arms. Despite any present day racial tension that may exist, most people are extremely please to hear about Berea’s success story. Most now realize that Berea was founded before the Civil War making Rev. John Fee a true visionary. Participating and Celebrating the Sesquicentennial has been an honor and a privilege; a very awe-inspiring occasion. As a student Berea introduces one to analytical thinking and new cultures, but most importantly impartial love. Although I’m no longer a student Berea continues to give me opportunities to learn, continuous education one could say.

On this 1,855 mile journey and learning trail we have and will encounter so many wonderful people. Although hundreds of miles apart we all have similar stories, memories, hopes and admirations, thus allowing the Great Commitments to serve as a link or a key to a lasting friendship.

To Friendship,
~Sonja~

Day 18

2006-04-18T22:51:00.000-05:00

Greetings to all! Amy Harmon has joined this leg of the relay again and so far it seems to be the hottest ever. The weather is a whopping HOT degree but amazing perfect for such a wonderful project, relaying the Great Commitments through Appalachia and the South.

First thing this morning we met with Mayor Jo Glen of Wetumpka, AL and her administrative assistant Donna. As we shared a few of Berea’s initiatives we learned that Earth Day is a very big holiday in Wetumpka. They were so proud to know that Berea College (BC) has Sustainability and Environmental Studies (SENS) and making efforts to develop a more sustainable campus; and that our largest academic building captures rainwater to help flush its’ toilets.

It’s rare to run across a county that has its own local Black History Museum, but one exist in Elmore County, housing original art work, iron boards that helped a local lady earn money for her family, and portraits of unclaimed family. Amy and I learned years of information within one hour. Inside were so many years of wisdom and so much hope for today’s youth. This museum serves as a meeting place for a group called “Thread My Needle.” All twelve women collaborate in quilt making, and what a beautiful site to behold. In between sharing their masterpieces, they asked questions and shared facts. The very place we stood was a Rosenwald School, a place to improve the quality of education for African Americans in the early twentieth century. Only six were constructed in rural Alabama and we have stumbled across one, the only to be made of brick. What a rich relationship to Berea, Kentucky which is also a home for a Rosenwald educational facility, Middletown School.

We joined Debbie Pendleton at the Alabama Department of Archives and History. Ever floor was engulfed in portraits and memories of Alabama’s rich history. She eagerly looked through Shannon’s Wilson’s book we were extending to the Archives. Mrs. Pendleton glazed at the illustration searching her brain wanting to pin point the exact location Berea College students were when holding a banner exclaiming we are all of one blood.

Alabama State Treasurer, Kay Ivy, surrounded us with southern hospitality. She was so amazing already researching and admiring the works of BC. This full day definitely ended with all smiles and a sense of accomplishment.

And the Sun Shined on Us,
~Sonja~

Day 17

2006-04-17T21:58:00.000-05:00

Wow, I had my small town experience today, but when we left it didn’t feel so small after all. This morning, Will, Jeff and I met with the Mayor of Prattville, Jim Byard, to extend our friendship. I’ll admit government officials make me want to stand straight, over articulate my words and swear to tell the whole truth nothing but the truth. But Mayor Byard and his secretary Jamie welcomed us and treated us like ol’ friends.
Thank you Mayor Byard!

From Prattville we traveled to Montgomery, AL. where Will and I stood in the very pulpit that Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. once preached from at the Dexter Ave. Baptist Church. The stained glass windows allowed the bright day to enter into the sanctuary; and we were amazed at how well this church would fit onto Berea College campus.

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is located in downtown Montgomery and what a beautiful and massive structure. Elizabeth Hedemann and Alyssa Martin accepted our Proclamation and Berea’s latest history book to be shared with all and kept within Troy University’s Library. Channel 6 news took great interest in Berea’s history and mission.
Thank you Channel 6!

Montgomery!
~Sonja~

Day 16

2006-04-16T20:38:00.000-05:00

Berea College’s founder would say that Christianity exemplifies impartial love among all. Berea has never been associated with any denomination or sectarian Christian church. Today is Resurrection Sunday some refer to it as Easter, but it is the cornerstone to Christianity, the basis of one’s belief. What better way for me to celebrate other than attending a non-denomination, faith based worship service? I attended Faith Chapel Christian Center. Pastor Michael D. Moore and his wife Kennetha Moore are both Berea College graduates. In 1981 he with a congregation of four began holding church service in his home. In 1999, ground was broke for a debt free $15 million, 3,000 seat dome sanctuary.

After church, the Great Commitments Relay van attracted on comers to ask questions and inspired other Berea connected persons to stop and sign the Great Commitments. Yvonne Washington and her son Brian gladly stopped to tell of her daughter that graduated from BC. I was joined by Furman Gatewood who attended in the 90’s and local high school teacher Kenneth Jones who has help students achieve academic excellence to become BC students.

Overall, the day was wonderful and I’m looking forward to Prattville tomorrow.

Signing off from Brook Mountain, AL
~Sonja~

Day 15

2006-04-15T19:52:00.000-05:00

Marian Hood Class of 1945 really enjoyed having Berea College (the van) stop by her Vestavia Hills, AL home. Signing the Great Commitments added extra enthusiasm and brought great memories of Berea to surface.

Today I took great pleasure in stopping along side of the route to take pictures and enjoy wild life. I didn’t anticipate wild life being wild (chuckle chuckle). Meaning, I stopped to enjoy a waterfall and ducks that live there; So quiet, so peaceful, so serine. The ducks glided and bathed paying me no mind until one noticed I was there. They (the ducks) watched me and I them. One began to honk, sounds similar to a car’s horn. Honk Honk he said to fellow peers, then more began to watch me. I concluded that they were conversing about my presence. After two or three began to fly and splatter the water I thought it would be a good idea for me to run back to the van. The view was so beautiful I decided to watch from the van for a while. Meanwhile, someone pulls up in a car throwing loaf bread out the window to the ducks. So I figured it out, the ducks were upset that I came to visit without bringing bread. Word of advice: take bread near wild ducks.

I’m looking forward to meeting with NaTasha Hood Austin Class of 2001 a little later.

Life is Beautiful in Vestavia
~Sonja~

Day 14

2006-04-15T12:31:00.000-05:00

Good Friday! Good Friday and that it was. The sunny day inspired me to get an early start. Despite the hot temperatures my initial walk through the Kelly Ingram Park was so reflective yet refreshing. For those not familiar, this park is located where many gathered for civil rights rallies and marches during the 1960’s. It was in this location that police used attack dogs and firemen used high powered water hoses to detour the crowd. Will Jones, joined me for his first time to witness the gruesome and heart-wrenching images.

Soon after, we met with current pastor, Arthur Price, of the famous Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. In 1963, four little girls died after the church was bombed. Sixteenth Street Church was known for holding desegregation rallies. Mary Jo Morton, Berea College alumna, joined us along with Jeff Blake whose daughter graduated from Berea in 1998 for the entire day. Pastor Price graciously accepted a Proclamation of Friendship on behalf of the church. He also led us on a tour of the sanctuary where we witnessed beautiful young ladies worshiping God through liturgical dancing. Then to the downstairs where a small museum is set up in honor of Denise McNair, Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley, the bomb victims.

Will, Jeff, Mary Jo and I walked over to the Civil Rights Museum where we met another great alum, Carl Thomas. A 2004 BC graduate, LaQuita Middleton Singleton, accepted a Proclamation of Thanks on behalf of the Civil Rights Institute Museum. Berea’s latest history book will be archived here. WOW!! That’s great! This book demonstrates Berea’s connection to the civil rights movement.

Oh I can’t forget to tell you that we did take time to attend Noon Day service at local churches to celebrate Good Friday.

Signing off from Birmingham
~Sonja~

Day 13

2006-04-14T18:23:00.000-05:00

Just when I thought I could fairly label Berea, KY as a small town, I learned that there are towns even smaller that can be identified by the following characteristics…

You know you are in a small town when…

-people identify you by the vehicle you drive.
Ok, so the Berea mobile does stand out!
-people recognize you by your sneeze.
This really happened to Eric! A stranger, who saw him twice, remembered his sneeze!
-you know the complete layout of the town after being there for a day…
...or so we THOUGHT we knew they complete layout of Pulaski, TN! We did get turned around a couple times!
-5 bugs splat against your window simultaneously while driving a main road, and this is normal.
As gross as it is, you know it happened.
-the county Mayor schedules future appointments for you to attend.

Yes, this is the truth! What we thought would be our last relay stop of the day at County Mayor, Janet Vansant’s office, actually led us to another appointment! With Mayor Vansant’s assistance, Eric and I stopped by the local high school to visit with three prospective Berea College students. They currently are involved in an after school program that assists students in the college application process. They expressed a great interest in Berea College as we shared our personal stories and talked to them about the many opportunities at the College! As many prospective students are, they enjoyed hearing that the college offered free tuition as well as a solid liberal arts education. I am overwhelmed with joy that the relay helped introduce Berea College to three potential students!

Finally, you really know you are in a small town when…
-you feel welcome by all who greet you, and many greet you!
-you’d just hate to leave it…and we did.

But unfortunately for us, we had to leave the small town of Pulaski, TN to keep the relay going. Fortunately for us, in the large city of Decatur, AL, we found many small town qualities!

Day 13 began with a warm hospitable welcome to the state of Alabama, and more importantly, the city of Decatur. The relay met up with Sonja Williams, also in College Relations at Berea College, to deliver a proclamation to the mayor’s assistant and the city clerk at the city hall! Lydia Beck, ’86, and her daughter joined us as the city pleasantly surprised us by giving Berea College a key to the city! Ladies and gentlemen, I am enthused to report that this relay continues to get better and better! I am moved by the friendly, cordial hospitality of the city officials of Decatur, AL. Thank you for showing me that large cities can be equally as amiable, accepting, and generous as small towns!

Please continue to follow the relay through the state of Alabama with Sonja Williams as your blogger!

Signing off from Decatur, AL.
-Crystal

Day 12

2006-04-12T09:31:00.000-05:00

Good morning! It’s Crystal Baldwin, again, reporting for Mae Suramek!

The relay is taking a short stop in Pulaski, TN. This morning Eric and I are preparing to depart for Alabama, at which point Sonja Williams and Will Jones will take over. Before we depart for our meeting in Decatur, Eric and I will visit both the city and county mayors on behalf of Berea College friends and alumni!

I’m gazing out the window of my hotel room in reflection. I see green rolling hills that stretch wide and into the distance. The large clock tower of the courthouse can be seen and defines the center point of the city. It shines above us, similar to the Draper Tower on the Berea College campus. The thought of the likeness brings me much comfort. You see, just yesterday we were informed that the KKK originated in this city. Imagine the hardship and turmoil. Imagine the inequity. It baffles me to think that 150 years ago the city that I look out upon was completely segregated and that people died because of skin color. Though less racism occurs in this city and across the country today, it is still an issue. Because of this, I proudly prepare for my meeting this morning, and every morning that I am a representative for Berea College, because I know sharing Berea and our history helps to eliminate hate.

We really are making history!

Signing off from Pulaski, TN.
-Crystal

Day 11

2006-04-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

It seems unlikely that Nashville, a city comprising of 1.3 million people (2003 projected census) and Berea College, a small liberal arts college, would have a lot in common, but since I visited, I’ve been able to draw many similarities. For example, there are about 90 Berea College alumni living in Nashville! (That is more than enough to keep the Alumni Chapter going)!

Like Berea College, Nashville is committed to its mission. Since Elvis, and possibly before then, Nashville has been known for bringing up country music legends and is the music city for it’s ‘musical heritage and Nashville sound’ (http://www.musiccityusa.com/). Berea College has been dedicated to its mission for 150 years and hopes to be for another 150+ years!

Nashville, though comprising of so many music stars, has developed a family, so I’ve been informed by one of our alumni. In my experience visiting Nashville, I gained a sense of comfort and belonging among this family. The city, though large in size, and dynamic, consists of people who are friendly to visitors and cordial to each other, despite all of the differences that may exist between them, like estate size, for example. Like the city of Nashville, Berea has a family. This family I have been familiar with since my acceptance into the College in 2000.

Who are the Berea family?

You are!

If you are reading this blog, I bet that you are VERY familiar with our family. As an alumna, I have reaped the benefits of carrying the Berea College name with me everywhere I go. In my experience, Berea College alumni have been hospitable, welcoming, and caring. They have treated me to suppers and offered a safe place to sleep in my travels. They have shared stories of their past and welcomed fresh updates from the campus. The Berea family shares a bond that I’m realizing is hard to describe, but is strong and deep. Members of the Berea family connect within seconds and they do the impossible for each other.

Why?

Because we are Berea. Alumni, current students, town residents, friends, faculty, and staff. You know who you are. Thank you for being a part of my family!
While in Nashville, I reaped the benefits of being in the Berea family and my blog today is primarily to say thank you. Many alumni gathered for ‘family’ reunions at various events throughout the city, joining the relay. Additionally, while gathering for a reunion at the Country Music Hall of Fame, Randall and Sarah Reynolds invited me, as a part of their Berea family, to attend the Country Music Television Awards. As Mae learned from Julie Sowell in an earlier blog, I just couldn’t reject fate. Because of the Reynolds, I had a once in a lifetime opportunity to attend the Country Music Television Awards! I went and had an amazing time! Of course, the evening would have been more complete if I somehow convinced all of the stars present to sign Berea’s Great Commitments. Now that would be a valuable document with potential of being sold on e-bay! Though obtaining all those signatures seemed impossible, as Wynonna Judd, an original Berean, approached the stage, I quickly learned that it was not completely unattainable. Why? Because she is part of the Berea family too!

Signing off from Franklin, TN
-Proud to be a Berea College alumna.
-Proud to be part of your family.
-With Berea, anything can happen!

-Crystal, class of 2004

Day 10

2006-04-12T09:29:00.000-05:00

Though I have missed having Mae along during my stretch of the relay in the central portion of Tennessee, I must admit that I’ve been having the time of my life! Eric Waller joined me on Mae’s behalf. Our Monday was a long, busy, exhausting, yet rewarding day!

The relay went to three different event locations today in Nashville, ensuring that all the country music stars saw the Berea mobile! I’m proud to say that the decorated van draws a lot of attention, which means that we are teaching people about our wonderful College! I am thrilled to be part of spreading the good news of Berea, to Nashville.

Our morning event, a Proclamation to the State of Tennessee, comprised of eight Berea College alumni with graduation classes ranging between 1934, Dr. Sarah Sell, and 2005, Da Norm! On behalf of Tennessee State Governor Bredesen, Legislative Officer, Patrick Smith, accepted the Proclamation and gifts. Also joining us were Jean Dedman, Ken Roberts, and Tom Lawson! We really had an impressive group of alumni! Thank you to everyone who participated in this memorable ceremony! I recall hearing Patrick Smith congratulate our school for our successful alumni and thank us for the work we do!

The Country Music Hall of Fame allowed four Berea College alumni to go behind the scenes in the archives to get a sneak peak at their collection of CMHF inductee and Berea College Academy graduate, Clyde “Red” Foley. Sarah Reynolds, a Red Foley Award Recipient, and her husband, Randall Reynolds, who has worked many years on ‘Music Row’ at Bellmont, joined us to deliver the Proclamation and donation of 3 photo prints from original negatives held in the Berea College archives. The photos will be added to their Red Foley collection, which includes an original red-paint portrait, Red’s very first guitar, and song books. Being behind the glass was indeed a great birthday gift to Berea College! Having Sarah and Randall there to express friendship was the gift wrap and the bow that completed the gift. I should explain that Red Foley Award recipients are recognized for their musical talent and great contribution to the social life of the Berea College campus community. In meeting Sarah, I could see how she once was this person in her musical work, and continues to enhance the community through the work she currently does in development at Vanderbilt.

Following our small ceremony to the CMHF, the curator let us loose to roam the exhibits free of charge! We got some great photos and videography!

We continued our busy day by visiting the West End United Methodist Church, which was built with a gothic structure and interior, just as Danforth Chapel! There were many similarities between their large church and our small chapel, including the colors cascading the stain glass windows and the distinct lanterns hanging from the ceiling.

Matt Tolliver welcomed our relay. He is son to Berea College faculty Wayne Tolliver, who grew up in Berea. Matt was a prospective Berea College student, but decided to attend Vanderbilt due to his preference to gain new experiences in a faraway land. We are sad not to have Matt with us at Berea, but we are certainly excited that he is working to obtain his degree! Matt, we are so happy for you!

What a day! -Recognition by the State of Tennessee; honoring a successful legend at the Country Music Hall of Fame; and visiting a gothic style church with a Berea ‘townie.’ Can you believe that there was more? Well, to give you an idea of how eventful this day really was, I will continue talk about more high points in tomorrow’s blog! Check back again soon!

Signing off from Nashville, TN
-Crystal

Day 9, Crystal's Blog

2006-04-12T09:23:00.000-05:00

Hello, I’m Crystal Baldwin. I will be covering Mae’s relay blog in her absence until Wednesday. I look forward to sharing updates about the relay as well as my own thoughts and reflections along this journey!

I am happy to report that today at our chapter meeting in Nashville, TN there were about 20 alumni present! This is an amazing number, considering that the Chapter has not been active for several years! The Chapter was held at Martha’s at the Plantation. The restaurant opened its doors to us to dine after hours simply because we mentioned Berea College! Ok, it wasn’t that easy! As it turns out, the owner of the restaurant is great-granddaughter to Berea’s President Frost! They served a delicious meal of chicken croquettes, green beans, and a salad. I wasn't paid to say that it was delicious either! Vice President Bill Laramee shared updates on the College’s latest happenings. The alumni group included Berea College Trustee Hal Moses, Dr. Sarah Sell, Ken Roberts, Randall and Sarah Reynolds, Tom Lawson, and many more!

The Chapter meeting was definitely a highlight as a relay roadstop. The morning jaunt of the relay was to include a proclamation delivery to the city of Gallatin in the presence of the Mayor, and the fire and police departments. Additionally, two alumni, Ken Roberts and Glen Lawson were to participate in the stretch. However, due to tornados, 8 reported deaths, disaster and devastation that occurred in Gallatin, TN, we cancelled that portion of the relay. All participants of the Berea College relay are fine and our relay was not affected by the weather. We are thankful for that and we thank everyone for their prayers in wishing our relay well. If we had planned for our relay to be in Gallatin, TN only a few days earlier, we would have been in the midst of the wreckage. I feel fortunate that we were not. I am certain that much had to do with all your prayers.

Please, continue to pray for the families in that area of Tennessee and all the areas in the country that have had natural disaster. Thank you.

Signing off from Nashville, TN.
-Crystal

Day 9

2006-04-08T23:30:00.000-05:00

What do an 80-year old Presbyterian minister from Western Kentucky and a 28-year old college advancement professional from Estill county have in common? Well, actually at LEAST two things: 1) a passion for country dancing; and 2) a passion for Berea. As we head outside the state border, we also bid a temporary farewell to Amy Harmon who will be heading home to her husband John and her Maltese, Emmet until the relay route takes us back to the bluegrass state in early May. One of the last road stops that Amy and I shared was an off-the-path visit to Class of ’49 alumnus, Pat Napier who graciously sent me home with a sampling of his homemade cashew peanut brittle and a hand-crafted wooden toy car. Dr. Napier, a retired Butler county Superintendent, currently serves as a minister at a local church and has, since 1948 taught Christmas Country Dance School at Berea College. Dr. Napier actually missed only one year – 1951 – when he was stationed in Korea. For those of you who may not know this, our very own Amy Harmon was also an avid country dancer while a student at Berea and she continues to dance today (she also makes brooms, plays the guitar, and can do a mean U-turn in a cargo van – the things you learn about people when you spend 9 days straight together…)

The inspiration I gained from Dr. Napier's and Amy’s extraordinary commitment to Appalachia along with their unwavering love for Berea, was the perfect send-off I needed as I head into Tennessee tomorrow morning. For the next week or so, we will be joined by assistants to the president, Crystal Baldwin and Eric Waller as we share our remarkable mission and history with friends and alumni in Tennessee.

Signing off from Bowling Green, KY
Mae

Day 8

2006-04-08T23:14:00.000-05:00

In the past two years I’ve really come to realize that Berea College is fortunate to have so many wonderful committed and loyal alumni such as Rhenda Mills (along with her equally dedicated husband who graduated from neighboring Union College) whom I’ve already seen 3 out of my 8 days on the road, and Helena Mink who decided to celebrate her birthday tonight by treating 23 alumni to some of our region’s most fabulous country cooking in the form of all-you-can-eat fried chicken at Claudia Sanders Dinner House in Shelbyville.

I always knew that Berea alumni were a step above the rest with their capacity to give and share of themselves. What I didn’t realize, until I assumed my position with the alumni office, was the generosity and compassion that I’ve seen exhibited by NON-Berea alumni – those so eager to give to an institution that did not directly contribute to the betterment of their lives in the way that it did to Berea graduates. Today I had the rare opportunity to spend time with two such non-Berea alumni. Bill Bowman learned about Berea as a young boy when he and his parents used to drive from his hometown in West Virginia to Lexington to visit his brother who attended the University of Kentucky. They would often stop at Boone Tavern for spoon bread and that experience was his first introduction to a family of which he would later become an integral part. This morning Bill biked 10 miles from Fern Creek towards Bardstown.

Farra Mai Shipp is married to Navy V-12’er, Bob Shipp. Although Bob wasn’t able to join the group for this morning’s trek towards Bardstown, without hesitation, Farra Mai, (with Berea flag in hand), joined 3 other Berea alumni for the symbolic journey. I should also mention that Bob Shipp is working on completing a history book of the Navy V-12 program at Berea and that Farra Mai has spent countless hours typing and proofing the text of that book.

In recent years, it has become quite clear to me that Berea’s mission has reached far beyond our campus gates and inspired those who may not have lived the Berea experience but are undoubtedly “Bereans” in every sense.

Signing off from Shelbyville, KY
Mae

Day 7

2006-04-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

I’m well aware that there are truly great people roaming amongst us - but in the past two days I have had the rare opportunity to come face to face with two who also happen to share an alma mater with me. This morning, while en route to Louisville, Amy and I made a pit stop to visit with Galen Martin, ’51 in Jeffersontown, KY. Martin, an avid athlete who ran the New York Marathon at age 62, and spent most of his winters skiing in Aspen, was involved in a tragic bicycle accident two and a half years ago that left him immobile, and with severe brain damage. Although he came from a segregated, rural town in West Virginia, the young, white student leader became passionate about justice and race relations while at Berea, and later became the first Executive Director of the Kentucky Human Rights Commission. He went on to spend most of his life advocating for justice and equal rights. He founded the KY Fair Housing Council and served as an attorney in the landmark 1975 school desegregation lawsuit in Jefferson County, Kentucky.

The second person I came face to face with (via his black and white photograph) was a young African-American man from Bracken County who became the first black athlete at Berea. I learned about William Humphrey through Men’s Basketball Coach, John Mills who brought his African American Alumni Athletes exhibit to share with alumni in the Shelbyville-Louisville area during our second alumni/friends “Relay Roadstop” at the Claudia Sanders Dinner House. Humphrey later went on to become the first principal of the John G. Fee School in Brooksville, KY. Earlier this year Coach John Mills shared Humphrey’s story with a prospective Berea student and basketball recruit from Bracken County who had multiple college acceptance letters before him. It is amazing that over a century later, Humphrey still managed to inspire another young African American man from his own hometown - the prospective student recently decided that there is no place he’d rather attend college than Berea.

Individuals who make movement and who inspire are all around us, but it is an indescribable feeling to know that such individuals once walked the same hallways and sidewalks that I did. It is an indescribable feeling to know that I belong to the same family and share the same legacy as Galen Martin and William Humphrey.

Signing off from Shelbyville, KY,
Mae

Day 6

2006-04-05T23:44:00.000-05:00

What has been the "highlight" of this trip thus far? Today, that was precisely one of the questions posed to me by a reporter from the Frankfort State Journal. As I pondered how I should respond, it occurred to me that it is impossible to rank the different experiences I have been gathering on my journey because they have all been so varied and diverse in nature. Was my private meeting with Chief of Staff, Stan Cave in the Governor's press room any more memorable than my refreshing morning stroll to the Owenton Courthouse with 9-year old Ashton? Of course not - especially when Ashton beamed as she presented Owen County Judge Executive (known to Ashton as "Billy") with a copy of Shannon Wilson's history book. Was my meeting in the former funeral home (now known as City Hall) with Owenton Mayor, "Milkweed"Wotier any more memorable than spending the afternoon at the cozy home of alums, Rob and Jennifer Stafford (and their adorable daughter, Tylor), eating unlimited Subway sandwiches, Chex Mix, and Doritos while reminiscing about our Berea days? Not a chance. Although Stan Cave and Mayor Milkweed were both incredibly hospitable and supportive of Berea's mission, nothing quite compares to the eager smile on Ashton's face when she begged to be the official carrier of the Great Commitments. After all, both of her parents (Tim and Beverly Marcum) graduated from Berea and it made perfect sense for her to want to be a part of something that would help perpetuate her parents' legacies. So as I reflected on the day's events, I told the reporter that the whole trip thus far has been full of highlights (he said that was the answer he was expecting from me anyway) ...and I have no doubt that many more are in my path in the coming days. I wonder what highlight I will encounter tomorrow?

Signing off from Frankfort, KY
Mae

Day 5

2006-04-04T15:45:00.000-05:00

When you're on the road for 44 days straight, you quickly learn to redefine the concept of weekends. Gone are the days of 48 consecutive hours with your family and friends, far away from the demands of the office. Due to planning and appointment challenges, today's relay schedule was the lightest it has been since we began our trek last Friday. After joining alumna, Dot Williams in delivering a copy of the Great Commitments to Florence mayor, Diane Whalen, and joining Dot and her wonderful company for breakfast, Amy and I hit route 127 and headed back down south towards Owenton and Frankfort to prepare for tomorrow's leg of the relay.

After we met over lunch to chart out our next course of action, I suddenly found myself in the lobby of the hotel waiting for check-in time. I also found myself faced with a potential free afternoon - no 15-passenger van, no proclamations, just me and nothing but time to myself. In case you are reading this, Bill - I quickly decided that I could use this time to respond to the 131 e-mails that I have received since yesterday. Bill (Laramee) as most of you may know, is the Vice President for Alumni and College Relations (aka "my boss") who never ceases to amaze me with his support of this relay as well as any other idea, program, or project that helps further the mission of Berea College. Not only has he made it possible for me to continue my work while on the road, just yesterday he checked up on me to make sure that Amy and I were safe from the tornadoes that had hit Northern Kentucky.

So as I sat there during my newly defined concept of a weekend, I thought to myself that it's not that bad to NOT have 48 straight hours away from work to be with my family and friends when "work" consists of having oatmeal at Bob Evans with dedicated alumni like Dot who graduated from Berea almost 60 years ago but still remembers the magic she felt as a student when she heard the chimes play during her first Christmas at Berea. It's not that bad when the definition of family expands to include people like Bill, who care enough about your well-being to check up on you, or my friend Dean who - having just returned from a week-long vacation AND his first day at a new job - still came out to support me for two hours at the alumni gathering in Newport, or Berea professor, Debbi Brock, who extended an open invitation to bring me some of her famous, homemade lasagna when restaurant food just won't do it anymore (almost there, Debbi, almost there).

So I've come to the conclusion, that although I may have given up my traditional weekends for the next five or so weeks, it's a fair trade when I have already gained way more than I ever imagined.

Signing off for the "weekend",

Mae

Day 4

2006-04-03T22:53:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me well, also knows that one of my favorite desserts of all time are cream-filled eclairs. I'm not talking about the mass-produced grocery store ones filled with whip cream either. I'm talking the real deal - light and flaky homemade eclairs filled with thick, sweet, buttery custard, which are often times more difficult to get your hands on. When Amy and I first took off on our journey, we made a deal to help each other stay healthy and nutritious. We vowed to exercise regularly, eat healthy meals, and limit our junk food intake - all tasks that become increasingly challenging when living on a diet consisting of hotel vending machines, free continental breakfasts, and eat-and-run experiences from our 15-passenger vans. I've always been forced to give into my eclair cravings by driving to a larger city, ordering from a specialty bakery, or bribing my out-of-town friends to bring me the "real" eclair. So when I found myself facing two unbelievable opportunities for (1) Custard-filled cream puffs (a close cousin to eclairs) from the Parkview Inn in Augusta; and (2) Chocolate eclairs topped with whip cream from the Captain Cove's Restaurant in Newport, I thought I should take a moment to consider the likelihood of such opportunities being presented to me twice in one day. Our News Manager, Julie Sowell has been traveling with us for the past couple of days as she is working on video journaling the John G. Fee story in his hometown of Brooksville. Julie had the great fortune of being in my presence when both the cream puff AND the eclair were offered to me. After hearing me debate back and forth between my undying love for eclairs and my struggle to adhere to healthy eating habits, Julie finally gently said, "Mae, you can't reject fate". My willpower ultimately held out (for once) and incredibly, I turned down both sinful desserts. Later at my hotel room however, I thought to myself, who am I to reject fate (especially when fate comes in the form of a heavenly confectionery) and is it possible to "reject" something that is already destined? As I take a moment to reflect on the path that is before me for the next 40 days, I hope to be more intentional in seeking hidden meanings behind coincidences and opportunities that are presented to me during my journey. Two years ago, I would have never thought that I'd be a part of something so monumental - an ambassador of 8 great commitments. Commitments in which I whole-heartedly believe. Commitments that have always served as a powerful guiding force in my personal life. I'm only on the fourth day of my journey and I've already experienced so many wonderful coincidences that I can't help but think, in some way, fit into a bigger, more complete picture.

On day 2 I had the chance to meet Dr. Hank Preston, whose name was mentioned to me over two years ago by a friend and colleague Barry Poynter. Barry, Hank, and Associate Provost, Joe Bagnoli were Berea classmates and good friends and I had been hearing stories about Hank for years! Prior to my trip, as I was seeking out locations to hold alumni Relay Roadstops, I stumbled upon a quaint little restaurant in Nashville, TN through a simple internet search and later discovered that the restaurant was owned by the great granddaughter of Berea president William Frost! While I was driving the Berea van through Paris the other day, alumnus and friend, Travis Earlywine just happened to be pumping gas at a service station on 27 when he looked up and spotted our Berea caravan! I've come to accept that Berea's connections to the world and my personal connection to other Bereans is something that is inexplicably magical and I'm no longer surprised at the different coincidences that take place that help bring me closer to others in the Berea family.

So this morning, I'm sure it was no coincidence when I mistakenly walked into Brooksville Mayor, John Corlis' supply closet thinking it was an exit door. Maybe the good laugh that we shared broke the ice and allowed two human beings from different generations, with completely different backgrounds and cultures to connect in the exact way that Brooksville-native, John G. Fee had intended.

It was no coincidence that a small group of Berea alumni took part in the historical ringing of the world's largest swinging bell - the World Peace Bell - and that the bell was engraved with symbols of unity and progress.

It was no coincidence that three alumni from the class of 1954 suddenly found themselves together in the same room at an alumni gathering in Northern Kentucky, signing what will one day be an invaluable archival copy of the Great Commitments.

Julie Sowell was right. Who am I to deny what is intended for me as an ambassador for Berea? I have no doubt that the seemingly crazy coincidences and events that transpire over the next several weeks - the people I meet, those with whom I reconnect, the new friends that I'll make - are all meant to further complete the experience of this once-in-a-lifetime Berea journey. Thanks to Julie, I'll see if Amy and I might be able to find some custard-filled eclairs at our next pit stop.

Signing off from Florence, KY

Mae

Day 3

2006-04-02T21:16:00.000-05:00

While Amy and the Berea mobile faithfully paced behind Steele Hinton, ’76 as he bravely took on the last few miles of his 30-mile bike ride from Cynthiana to Brooksville, I arrived in Bracken county ready to take on a task that I can’t say I’ve ever attempted before. Amy and I were scheduled to teach an adult Sunday school class to the congregation of Brooksville Christian Church in Bracken county, which is the birthplace of John G. Fee. I should probably tell you that Amy has spent the last couple of days trying to calm my nervousness about the task at hand, reassuring me that we weren’t really “teaching” but merely sharing the story of Berea with a community that once nurtured and developed the very founder of our alma mater. For those of you who know assistant to the president and Berea alumna, Amy Harmon, you also know that she has an amazing, soothing quality about her and although I never taught a Sunday school class in my life, she made the experience seem effortless and ultimately it was rewarding for everyone.

I can’t tell you how comforting it is - when you are 100 miles from home – to see a familiar face walk through the door. In this case not one, but three familiar faces joined us in Brooksville and Augusta today - alumna, Rhenda Mills, ’64 traveled all the way from Frankfort with her aunt to join us for the day’s activities. Director of Public Relations, Tim Jordan, ’77 and News Manager, Julie Sowell also joined in on the fun. Fee historian, Caroline Miller of the Bracken County Historical Society treated us not only to an incredible feast at the Parkview Inn, but also shared with us her amazing wealth of knowledge about the life and work of John G. Fee.

The day ended with a small ceremony at the Bracken County Historical Society where we presented a copy of the Great Commitments and a signed copy of Shannon Wilson’s new history book to the group. We were joined by the Deans, who are the current owners of the original Fee homestead as well as three CURRENT Berea students! Seth, Roxanne, and Danielle who were on spring break, apparently read about Berea coming through town in the local paper and decided to come by to just to say hello.

After we accidentally took a much longer, but more scenic route to our last destination of the day - Maysville, Amy and I finally arrived at our pre-booked hotel, fully looking forward to taking off our shoes and having a quiet, reflective evening to ourselves. But after three unsolicited approaches in the parking lot by 3 different men asking (1) our room number; (2) to carry our bags for us; and (3) “how we were doing tonight”, we decided that maybe this hotel was not quite the safest place for single women like us to be calling it a night. Luckily, there was another hotel down the road that had terror-free, vacant accommodations for us and we did indeed call it night. After all, we have an hour of sleep to make up after having to turn our clocks forward this morning.

Signing off from Maysville, KY,
~ Mae

Day 2

2006-04-02T21:12:00.000-05:00

Day 2

How can I have lived in this state as long as I have and never experienced the breathtaking beauty of true Kentucky horse country along the stretch of U.S. 27 connecting Fayette and Bourbon counties? I have four very special Berea alumni to thank - for if it weren’t for them signing up to run and walk the 14-mile stretch from Lexington to Paris, I’d still be oblivious to the crumbling, stacked stone walls that go on forever, the picturesque thoroughbreds grazing on the most vibrant green landscape I’ve ever seen, and the majestic stables and farms – all set against a brilliant blue sky backdrop that seemed fitting for a colorful children’s storybook.

While Day 1 one was all about events and experiences - the big kick-off celebration on campus, meeting mayors and congressional staff, visiting sites that had historical relevance to our founding story - Day 2 was clearly about the people. More specifically, Day 2 was about the faces of those in the Berea family who continue to remain incredibly steadfast in their loyalty and love for Berea.

Now I thought that I LOVED Berea. I mean, after all, when I see a stranger wandering around campus I feel compelled to extend a personal welcome and help answer their questions despite the fact that the student tour guides could probably put me to shame with their acquired knowledge of all things Berea. When I see a piece of litter on a campus sidewalk, without thinking twice, I pick it up and throw it away in a trash can. I thought that I LOVED Berea…..that is until I met Cory Douglas, ’99. You see Cory Douglas, who lives in Richmond, VA wanted so badly to participate in the Great Commitments Relay that last night, he jumped into his car at 11:00 p.m. and drove for almost eight hours straight to meet fellow runners/walkers in the parking lot of the Ramada Inn at 7:45 a.m. Now that’s love. He joined Dr. Hank Preston, ’88 who courageously ran the entire 14-mile trek and alumni couple, Anthony, ‘00 and Katie, ‘02 Basham who did a run-walk-ride combination for the duration of the route.

Our Berea caravan seemed to gain a whole lot of attention as curious Lexingtonians and Parisians slowed down to ask what “cause” we were running for. An unidentified gray Honda Scion with a Berea College license plate drove by and honked excitedly at us. At one point we thought we were getting pulled over by the Bourbon county sheriff, but the officer merely wanted o send a police escort for our added safety!

I thoroughly enjoyed Katie’s breaks with me in the van. Her high spirits were contagious as she gleefully waved a Berea College flag out the window and danced playfully to really cheesy 80’s music. As a Media Services employee, Katie’s husband, Anthony and I have worked together for the past two years, but this was the first opportunity I had to really see him in a more personal setting. Without hesitation, Anthony took it upon himself to make sure that our distance runner, Hank was fully hydrated and that I adhered to my “lead van” responsibilities and didn’t leave Hank in the dust (let me tell, you, it’s a lot harder than it looks to drive a 15-passenger van at a steady pace of 4.5 miles an hour!)

As we entered Paris city limits, Travis Earlywine, ’94, who happened to be pumping gas at a local service station caught glimpse of the Berea caravan and excitedly ran over to offer words of support and proudly proclaimed his Berea affiliation to us. A storybook day deserves a storybook ending and that, we had. At the completion of the run/walk Hank’s three beautiful children, Caroline, Abby, and Will (named after Berea President, Willis Weatherford) and Hank’s lovely, very pregnant wife cheered him on at the make-shift finish line at Bourbon County High School.

The last relay activity for the day was a young alumni event in Lexington. Although I officially lost my status as a “young” alumna last year (young alumni are defined as those who have graduated within the last ten years), I figure there should be some perks to working at your alma mater, so I decide to drop by the late night gathering at Yesterday’s in Rupp Arena where I found a small group of recent Berea graduates playing pool and mingling in a casual but cozy atmosphere. It’s funny how you can fit right in and feel an automatic connection to people you’ve never met just because you share the Berea experience. Like I said, today, it was all about the people and on day 2 of my 44-day journey, I feel incredibly fortunate to have this once in a lifetime opportunity to connect with people who were strangers to me yesterday, but are now a part of my extended Berea family.

Still hanging in there in Lexington, KY,
~ Mae

Day 1

2006-03-31T17:37:00.000-05:00

My spirits were not dampened even after the forecast called for severe weather this morning. As the threatening, but still distant thunder roared in the midst of a bright blue, sunny sky, I knew without a doubt that this would be no ordinary day. In the final moments of chaos (packing for 6-weeks is no easy task!) and last-minute blunders, the words of our Campus Christian Center Director, Jeff Pool brought a welcoming sense of calm as he, President Shinn, and a large group of well-wishing Bereans gathered to send off myself, assistant to the president, Amy Harmon, and about 15 cyclists for the first leg of our 1855-mile journey.

Today I learned about the true rewards of taking the "scenic route".

Literally.

As I accompanied the bikers through the lesser traveled roads of Madison county - roads I never knew existed - I became undeniably engulfed in the simple beauty of my natural surroundings. Unfamiliar faces watched us with curiosity and as the Berea van became visible to them, they waved excitedly and offered kind gestures of support. The gentle, big brown eyes of grazing cattle peered at us, and there was an overall unexplainable, magical breeze that surrounded us.

Our first scheduled visit was to bring greetings and thanks to our neighboring institution of higher learning, Eastern Kentucky University. The rain had managed to hold off through the entire bike trek to Richmond and Amy and I were now eagerly anticipating sharing our alma mater's Great Commitments with EKU President, Joanne Glasser. Amy's van led the way to the parking lot adjacent to President Glasser's office and she apparently told the parking officer, "I need to park two vans". Before her words even left her lips, there was a loud crash and the friendly parking officer replied, "You mean this one and the one that just hit my truck?" Day one and not even 25 miles from home, it seems that my limited experience making wide turns in 15-passenger vans finally caught up with me. Luckily, the damage was minimal, the EKU safety officer was gracious and everyone walked away with no questions asked.

And then it rained.

I'm not talking a few scattered thunderstorms either but full-blown, soak-you-down, turn-your-umbrella inside out rain that followed us through our next stop to the White Hall estate, former home of Cassius Clay who donated land that was to later become Berea College. It followed us to Congressman Ben Chandler's office whose lovely and accommodating staff insisted on taking pictures with me despite my drenched clothes and increasingly frizzy hair. It followed us to Lexington Mayor Teresa Issac's office where Amy and I had to walk several blocks in the downpour after we discovered (the hard way) that our vans were too tall to pass the clearance bar in the government parking deck. By the time we arrived at our last stop, a retirement community in South Lexington I was drenched, covered in mud (I managed to step in a huge puddle of mud on my way to the mayor's office) and in dire need of hot chocolate. Just when I was seriously contemplating how in the world I would make it through 43 more days, there sat Edna Mae.

Edna Mae was a beautiful and graceful alumna who attended Berea for one summer in 1934 and has never been able to forget her experience since. She spoke of Berea with genuine fondness and she was one of those people who couldn't help but radiate positive energy to those around her. As Edna Mae's beaming face forced me to pause to reflect on my "day one" experience, I was amazed that despite the dented van, the muddy shoes, and the unmanageable hair, at that exact moment, more than ever, I felt the power of the blessing that was bestowed upon me at the time of my departure from Berea,

Deep peace of the running
Deep peace of the flowing
Deep peace of the quiet
Deep peace of the shining stars

Signing off from Lexington, KY,
Mae

P.S. I'll be working with folks back on campus to set up a photo album of pictures from the road. Please stay tuned...

2 days to kick-off!

2006-03-29T09:07:00.000-05:00

My bags are packed, my wonderful host-daughter has moved her belongings in (she so graciously agreed to house-sit for me for six weeks) and I'm in gear and ready to spend the next 43 days traveling across six states with high hopes of meeting and reconnecting with you - my extended Berea family. If you live in KY, OH, TN, AL, GA, or NC and are on our relay route, please stop by and say hello at one of our multiple events or just come cheer on fellow Bereans who may be running, walking, or biking right by your front door! Look for the brightly colored Berea College van.............coming soon to a town near you!

Great Commitments Relay 3/31/06-5/12/06

2006-01-17T09:43:00.000-05:00

The Relay Team will tour six states and nearly 50 communities.