Boyd County Extension Services Offers Holiday Wreath-Making Program

Lora Parsons

The Ashland Beacon

The “hustle and bustle” of the Christmas season may bring to mind images of crowded shopping malls, busy parking lots, and lots of parties to celebrate family and friends. What likely doesn’t come to mind is the scent of fresh-cut pine, piles of cedar clippings, and hundreds of yards of ribbon. If you’re a Boyd County Master Gardener or someone who’s participated in their annual wreath-making extravaganza, then you know full well that “hustle and bustle” is exactly what happens at the Boyd County Extension Education Facility. This year, from Nov. 27 through Dec. 1, and again from Dec. 4 through the 8th, Master Gardeners have been and will work tirelessly to provide this opportunity to our community.

Organizers recognize that the purpose of their hard work is twofold. Of course, they want to share their love of horticulture and agriculture with community members who come to make wreaths, but most who work the event say their purpose goes far beyond that. Rhonella Chaffin, who has been working the event for around 15 years, said a highlight of her long days giving instructions to participants and stocking supplies is that she enjoys “meeting all the different people who come in to make wreaths, whether this is their first time or they have been coming for years. I love seeing the joy on peoples’ faces.” Other Master Gardeners who work the event must share that same love for the community to put themselves through the grueling pace of the workday they commit to. The wreath-making runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day, for 10 days. Volunteers arrive early and stay late to prepare. For most of these nearly 12-hour days, volunteers are on their feet, focused on either giving instructions to new wreath-makers or stocking the constantly-depleting piles of evergreen laid across tables in the former Boyd County Fairgrounds Expo building on Addington Road, in Rush. The only chairs used are by the volunteers taking money at the entrance and by Lori Bowling, Boyd County Extension Agent for Horticulture, and Tina Badgett, Master Gardener President. While they may have the luxury of sitting while they work, they by no means will be found at rest. The pace of taking money and writing receipts is nearly nonstop, and the bow-making is a never-ending (sometimes impossible-seeming) swirl of helping participants choose three perfect ribbons to turn into professional-level bows that are the cherry on top when it comes to wreath design. Those volunteering their time to pull off an event of this magnitude rival Santa’s elves in this pine-scented workshop!

Upon arrival, participants are greeted with detailed instructions, hands-on coaching, and experienced suggestions to help ensure their success, and they are outfitted with an apron and gloves to avoid the sticky resin that is a byproduct of the evergreen cuttings. They are then guided to the front of the room to choose ornaments and a bow. After these choices are made, the gathering begins — approximately 140 pieces of white pine and 30 pieces of cedar. Dividing those into 10 bundles and placing them into an open wreath form for crimping wraps up the process. And, volunteers are present and easily accessible every step of the way to help with the bundling, placing, crimping, shaping, bow-making, and picture-taking once the wreath is finished. To purchase a wreath with the size, shape, ornament detail, and bow that comes with these, one would easily pay between $50 and $75. But, participants of this event walk away not only with a gorgeous wreath but also with the memory of a fun experience and the pride of having made it on their own, all for only $20.

Bowling said this event isn’t at all about making money; it’s more about growth. The holiday wreath program “began in 1999 when the extension service was in the basement of the courthouse and offered two classes of 10 people.” Bowling and other Master Gardeners harvested the greenery from wherever they could find it. The program has grown exponentially since then, making it necessary now to purchase the evergreen. The Hutton-Loyd Tree Farm in Fleming County has supported the program for many years, originally with a purchase of 12 boxes of greenery. Bowling commented she has had to order “192 boxes of greenery the past few years and still [has] to harvest some” locally when the stockpiles get low. Greenery isn’t the only bulk purchase needed to pull off this event. Nearly 1,000 spools of ribbon for bows, somewhere near 3,000 ornaments, and as many as 900 wreath rings are also purchased to execute this program. And, that doesn’t include the floral wire, nitrile gloves, pruners, hand sanitizers, and daily lunches for the volunteers. The funds that foot the bill for all these supplies come from the Programming Budget of the Boyd County Extension Services — money that is set aside to offer residents of Boyd County quality horticultural experiences. Bowling stated, “The wreath program is one that we view as a community-building program and kind of as a thank you to the residents.” It also doubles as a way she can share with the community the many services the Extension Office has in place for residents. An advertising source for the Extension Office, this holiday program is, in short, a win-win for all those who participate. And, the community impact due to their efforts is significant.

More than 850 wreaths are created by excited members of the community, many that have made this a regular part of their Christmas-season kickoff. Those in attendance seem to enjoy the opportunity to slow down a bit and create something with their own personal touch that they can enjoy for weeks to come. Families, friend groups, office staff, individuals, church groups — all kinds of configurations of members of the community join one another for a fun way to kick off the holiday season. An evening with the Boyd County Extension Master Gardeners crew is a fun way to usher in a little Christmas spirit in a laid back environment, surrounded by a sense of neighborly goodwill.

Two Russell High School Students Add a Touch of Hometown Magic to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Deidra Bowling-Meade

The Ashland Beacon

 

 

   In a dazzling display of holiday spirit, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade once again took center stage in the heart of New York City. The city streets were transformed into a spectacle of color, music, and cheer as towering balloons, meticulously crafted floats, and spirited marching bands paraded through the iconic route. Among the countless spectators, two eleventh grade students, Oli Enyart and Emily Evans, from Russell High School, had the extraordinary opportunity to be part of this grand tradition.

 

   For Oli and Emily, this wasn't just a front-row seat to the festivities; it was an experience of a lifetime. Decked out in festive attire, they joined the ranks of performers, adding their energy to the already electric atmosphere. Their faces beamed with excitement as they became integral parts of the parade, marching proudly as members of Macy’s Great American Marching Band. Oli played the trumpet and Emily served as a member of the color guard.

   Emily described how the opportunity to be in the parade came about, “We found online that the Macy's Great American Marching Band was accepting applications and joked around about how cool it would be if we went. In the end, we both decided to actually send in a video audition showing off our skills and best tricks.”

   Oli added, “The audition process was playing a solo, which had to meet a certain level of difficulty and then doing a simple marching drill while playing a scale.” 

   There were more than 700 students from all 50 states who auditioned with only 219 being selected. Oli and Emily were among the best musicians and color guard chosen to participate. Oli has played the trumpet for six years, and Emily has been part of the color guard for five years. 

   Oli shared his thoughts on being part of the parade, “The thing I enjoyed most about the experience was meeting people who shared the same passion for music as I do and getting to play with a group of such incredibly talented musicians. It was really impressive how we were able to put together a whole show ready to broadcast in front of 50 million people in just three days of rehearsal.”

   Emily said, “I got nervous the first few days we were in New York, but by the time the parade rolled around I was nothing but excited. This was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience. My favorite part of this whole thing was walking down the route and being able to wave and interact with all the people lining the streets.”

   Both Oli and Emily have supportive parents, who were thrilled about this opportunity for their children. 

   Katy Stapleton, who is Emily’s mother, remarked, “This has been a whirlwind year for Em. She’s graduating a year early, so we are trying to fit so much into this year. Getting to see her accomplish something so few kids get to do, was amazing. She was sick most of the week, and powered through to be there. I can’t explain how proud of her I am for everything that she accomplished, or the pure joy that I felt watching her in the parade.”

   Oli’s mother, Courtney Harris, shared, “As a parent, it was unreal to see my kid playing trumpet in this parade. I've been watching the Macy's Parade since I was a little kid and watching it in person was awesome, but knowing my kid was marching made the experience something I can't even describe. Oli works so hard and puts everything he has into his music. Seeing it pay off for him is such an amazing thing. It has been such an unforgettable time!”

   The future looks bright for Oli and Emily as they plan to pursue careers in music education. Emily plans on attending EKU for vocal music education next fall.  As a senior next year, Oli will get to participate again in the Macy’s Great American Marching Band.  Both give credit to their musical influences who have mentored them in their decisions.

   Emily remarked, “My choir teacher, Theresa Russell, was my greatest influence to continue in this activity. She pushed me to find the good in all the long and hard practices. Without having her to talk to and laugh with in choir, my love for music would have never fostered and grown as it has.”

   Oli commented, “The biggest musical influence has been my trumpet teacher Kody Jernigan. He’s been the person guiding me through music for about two years, and I really admire him and his hard work and dedication to music.”

   As the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade excitement settles, the impact of Oli Enyart and Emily Evans' extraordinary journey resonates in all of us. For Oli and Emily, being part of the parade wasn't just a performance; it was hometown magic on a national stage. Their dedication to music, showcased through Oli's trumpet and Emily's color guard skills, not only brightened the parade route but the hearts of those back home. Their shared love for music turned dreams into reality.

Supporting Local Businesses Small Business Saturday and Beyond

Grace Phillips

Ashland Beacon

When you think of Thanksgiving several things come to mind…food, family, and SHOPPING. In 2010, the Saturday after Thanksgiving was designated as Small Business Saturday by American Express. It is a way to support our local business owners who boost the local economy. These local entrepreneurs come in many forms. Some have brick-and-mortar stores, but many work out of their homes and are found on weekends in the areas craft and vendor shows.

This year there are a number of events in which you can support the local businesses and artisans in our area. There are two events on November 25^th. The first is at Ashland Middle School. Twyla Agee is the coordinator for the event. Twyla said this show started with a need for equipment for the band. She does many shows each year herself with her business, just a Small Town Girl Tees, and saw a need for an event to highlight the area’s small businesses while allowing her to help with support for the band.

 According to Twyla, “I have approximately 60 vendors including food trucks that will be participating.” The show will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and feature a variety of businesses in one location. Agee continued, “We have some bigger names that people may be familiar with…CB Bears, Southern Sassy Sisters Boutique, Local Mercantile and SOASH with the pink bus, Bubbles and Sweets will be in the concession area.  There are also smaller local businesses, Sweet Bee Gardens and Stephy Kats Scensory Play, plus so many more.  Santa will be there from noon -4 p.m. as well as an inflatable for the kids.” The Ashland Middle School is located at 2800 Kansas Street, Ashland, Ky and admission is free.

From this event, you can drive just a few miles down Route 23 to Russell, Ky where Bluegrass Mamma Creations is participating in Small Business Saturday in Russell.   Bluegrass Mamma’s features homemade wooden door hangers, signs and nursery décor. Chelsea Potter shared, “I am really excited to be a part of the Small Business Saturday. At this time, I have 20 local craft vendors that will be set up in my parking lot and inside the store. The event will run from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. I will have to-go paint kits available in the store as well as a keepsake-type ornament for kids to make while they are there.” Bluegrass Mama’s is located at 444 Bellefonte Street, Russell, Ky.

The next stop on our shop local events is on Sunday, Dec. 3 with Greenup’s Christmas on the Square. From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., downtown Greenup will be transformed into a magical Christmas Village.  Kathy Osborne invites everyone to bring their family and join in the festivities as well as support the local vendors who will be in the courthouse square. “This is going to be a great time for our community to come together for a great time. Our original thought from last year was everything costs parents so much…why don’t we plan an event where it is free? We wanted to give them a place where they could enjoy a day of fun and activities totally free except for purchases from the craft booths or food.”   Osborne continued, “We have about 20 locations set up throughout town where every location will have something free for their children. It may be a craft, make your own hot chocolate, or decorate your own sugar cookie. My office will have goody bags that are Jesus-oriented, so it will be the true meaning of Christmas. The library will have story time and a book or craft.”

Nearly 40 vendors participating will be handcrafted vendors only, and there is no charge for setting up. Each one will be decorated for Christmas. Church choirs will be performing throughout the afternoon, and there will be an abundance of door prize drawings beginning at 4:30.

Osborne said that one of the most exciting attractions is the Giant North Pole Snow Slide. It is a 20-foot-high dual snow slide complete with snowblowers sponsored by ARC. The day will conclude with a Christmas parade at 5 p.m.

On Saturday, Dec. 16, our journey will take us to the Boyd County Convention Center near I-64 at Cannonsburg for the 5^th Annual Christmas Craft Show. This event is sponsored by KimsKreations Boutique.  The show will run from 10 a.m. -4 p.m. and features nearly 70 local crafters and independent businesses.

Kimberly hosts several shows each year. Santa will make an appearance, and you can take your own photos with the jolly man in the red suit. Kimberly also stated, “We will have a number of raffles featuring donations from the vendors as well as a gift card tree valued at $500 or more. All raffle proceeds will go to the Wildwood Baptist Church of God for their Guatemala 2024 mission trip. Church members will go and build a home for a family, as well as worship, fellowship and teach the word of God while there.” The Pigs Blanket will provide concessions for the event and small business owner, Rachel Foglesong, will be reading Christmas stories to the children throughout the day. She is also having a toy drive for anyone who would like to drop off a new toy. Admission to the show is free.

There is no shortage of shopping opportunities to support local crafters or home businesses during the next month.

 A few other events are:

December 2^nd

• Christmas Craft Fair, Ashland Area YMCA 10 a.m.-4 p.m. featuring a variety of crafts and vendors, a silent auction including YMCA memberships, registration fees, and birthday parties.
• Fairview Independent Schools, Breakfast with Santa Vendor Fair at Fairview High School 8 a.m. — 11 a.m. Proceeds will support the Fairview Beta Club.

Dec. 9

• The safety patrol at Catlettsburg, Elementary is hosting a craft fair
• Christmas in County Dec. 8 & 9^that Imel’s Greenhouse located at 2836 State Route 1, Greenup, Ky

Ollie James McCarty

A Sacrifice of Service

 Ellen Keaton

Ashland Beacon

As Veteran’s Day approaches each year, I think of the Veterans from my family.  There are a number including my father and my husband.  However, there is one person who gave the ultimate sacrifice for us…my grandfather Ollie James McCarty.  Ollie was born on Dec. 21, 1916, in Manilla, KY, a small town in Johnson County, to Oscar and Leanner McCarty. He was one of seven children.  Eventually, Ollie came to Boyd County and married Gladys Davis in 1938. The McCarty’s lived in an old two-story log house on Davis Branch.  He worked as a carpenter to support his growing family and his work at times took him out of town. Ollie and Gladys had four children, Gertrude, Margaret, Michael, and Joann. WWII began in 1939, but the United States did not join in the war until the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.  No one really knows why but in 1943, just after the birth of their last child, McCarty decided to enlist in the US Navy. 

Gertrude was the oldest of the McCarty children and has very few memories of her father.  She said one of the most vivid ones she has was a time when her grandmother had surgery and died in Louisville, and her mother had to leave them with their dad. “ Davis Branch was just a gravel road at the time.  Daddy was going to walk to the mailbox to see if there was a letter from Mom and took us with him.  On the walk back home, he was singing – ‘No letter in the mail today; no letter from my love.’”  She continued, “Later that day, he sat my sister Marge in a chair, put a bowl on her head, and cut her hair along the bowl edge.”  It wasn’t long after that he enlisted in the Navy.

Ollie McCarty was stationed to the USS Hoel, a Fletcher-class destroyer ship, that was a part of a group known as the Taffy 3.  The ship was soon to be involved in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Battle of Samar. 

The Battle of Leyte Gulf has been called the greatest battle in naval history and the most unlikely victory in all of WWII. On Oct. 25, 1944 after several days of battle in the gulf, a small destroyer group called the Taffy 3 was left alone to guard the San Bernardino Straight. In the dawn of that morning, the entire force of the Japanese armada slipped through the straight to destroy our forces that had just landed on the Philippine Islands.

This small group of ships was facing insurmountable odds. Instead of turning to flee for safety, they turned all their resources and went straight toward the Japanese ships. The Lt. Commander of one of the ships told his men “This will be a fight against overwhelming odds from which survival could not be expected.” The USS Hoel, Johnston and Roberts were sunk that day, and several others were badly damaged.  Only 86 men from the USS Hoel survived that day.  

These brave men fought with such tenacity that it made the Japanese Commander think he was up against the entire American naval force in the area. He retreated because his large armada ships were so badly battered. The Commander in Chief of the US Pacific fleet, General Nimitz, said “The fact that the Japanese fleet did not completely destroy all of the escort carriers and their accompanying screen is nothing short of special dispensation from the Lord Almighty.” 

Gertrude recalled the fateful day that news came to her mom.  “Mom was recovering an old chair and had it sitting up on the table…I was barely five at that time.  A telegram was brought to our house.  Of course, it began with, “We regret to inform you.”  She continued, “Somehow, one of the neighbors found out what had happened and brought us a game and some crayons.  I still remember the smell of those crayons and just looking out the window of our dining room.  Still today, the smell of crayons brings that pang of hurt back to me.”

As far as Ollie’s family knew, there were no survivors, but through a series of events in the 1990s Gertrude found out so much more.  After a news article ran from a Veterans Day service at Golden Oaks Cemetery about Ollie McCarty, the family was given a copy of a book with stories of the survivors of the USS Hoel. “We never knew there were survivors. There were actually about 300 survivors from the Hoel, Johnston, and Roberts that day.  They floated for nearly three days waiting to be rescued.  The stories in that book are heartbreaking but yet miraculous.”  She continued “The booklet also contained the names and number of all the survivors of the USS Hoel. I started calling every name in Kentucky and West Virginia and finally connected with Larry Morris from Harrodsburg, KY.  He told me so much about that day.  He also told me about a survivor reunion that was held each year on the anniversary of the battle. My husband and I attended a number of the reunions after that.  Unfortunately, by then many of them had died and no one remembered my dad.  However, from what we were able to piece together, my dad had possibly only been on the ship since September…just a month before it sank.” 

Ollie McCarty was awarded a number of medals and citations including a Purple Heart, WWII Victory Medal, Navy Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Expeditionary Medal as well as several other ribbons and medals.   His name can be found on the WWII Memorial in Armco Park as well.   There is a bit of irony here…the young man whose life began in Manilla, Kentucky, is memorialized in the Tablets of the Missing in the American Manila Cemetery in Manilla, Philippines. 

When the memorial at Armco Park was dedicated, someone placed a wreath there.  I will never forget the note on the tag: “They died so their children and grandchildren could live free.”  Ollie’s legacy continues today with more than 100 descendants—six generations from the four children he and Gladys had in their short time together.   They include teachers, nurses, firemen, ministers, and those who have also served our country in the military.  Although I never met my grandfather, in our eyes he is a true American Hero.