GOP Ralley Set for Saturday in Ohio

September 29, 2012 @ 12:00 AM
DAVID E. MALLOY
The Herald-Dispatch

ROME TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- A rally is planned at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds to support the Republican presidential and congressional candidates and talk about how the federal Environmental Protection Agency is impacting the coal industry.

About 100 people involved in the coal industry, from coal miners to coal mine owners, also are expected to participate in the rally. In addition, Republican supporters will be knocking on doors around Lawrence County earlier in the day, providing applications for absentee ballots to eligible voters and urging undecided voters to vote Republican in the Nov. 6 election.

 Amy Jo Schenewark, a Rome Township area resident, who has known the Romney family for nearly 30 years, said she's been asked to give the opening prayer at the rally.

"My father gave the opening prayer at the Republican National Convention in Tampa," Schenewark said in an email to The Herald-Dispatch.

"I feel honored to represent my faith, my community and my family at such an important moment in this pivotal campaign," the mother of seven said.

Sandy Joseph of Rome Township, a local volunteer and a registered Republican, said a caravan of workers and owners in the coal industry will be attending a rally in Charleston before heading down Interstate 64 to Lawrence County on Saturday. They will be protesting the energy policies of President Obama. "We'll be going to targeted neighborhoods in South Point, Coal Grove and Ironton, among others," Joseph said.

Soccer Season

The weather has been beautiful this fall, and sitting at three games each week has been a pleasure!

You know Miller's head is in the game when his tongue is out ;-)

Sawyer's main competitor this year, a fierce striker that was tough to compete against.

In the net for a rest!

Go Boys!

With All Our Love

Dear Tanner,

As you mentioned in your last email, I'm sorry to hear you had a few down times...want to share? We all have moments that aren't rosy, but you didn't elaborate. I'm impressed. Nothing like not dwelling on our problems to help you focus and be positive. I can tell you're doing that! Good for you.

Your companion mentioned in his letter how you and he were the only ones to sing the two songs breaking new ground at the CTM. We're proud of you, your creativity (popcorn, sleepover), your involvement (choir, piano), your desire to be the best you can be, and for sharing your talents with others.

I had forgotten that when we ran into President Wood at the Boston temple this summer he mentioned that much of your heart would be left in Brazil. You haven't even gotten out of the training center! I'm glad you've made such endearing friendships. We got your envelope full of pictures, addressed to Hunter. It was fun reading about your different friends and why they were such. And Porter got his letter. Thank you for remembering your brothers. Sawyer and Cooper are eagerly awaiting their turn.

I'm thrilled beyond words that you were able to hear Grampy pray. Yeah! I'm so glad they allowed you to see him. Was your companion with you? It was a wonderful moment for us as well, and I wanted so badly for you to be able to see him and how well he looks. I expect a bit of heaven is like those moments as well. Thursday the assistant principal of Sawyer's school knocked on my door, and proceeded to tell me about the Lawrence county Romney-Ryan rally occurring this Saturday. She said that the coal miners, who have suffered under Obama's coal policies, and had 1300 laid off this week, are car pooling here to take part in additional to national media coverage. She knew about your grandfather, and shared this with the event planners. Then, she asked if I would say the opening prayer. Gulp! The organizers from Cincinnati told her I would decline, but she was sure I wouldn't. So, this Saturday, just a bit before 4 p.m., say a little prayer for me ;-) Yesterday she brought me a Romney sign for the yard. It looks rather nice by the big tree out front!

Hunter competed in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) tournament against 36 other golfers, and came in 6th overall, first on his team, with an 87. First time in about ten years the school's had an All-District player. Yesterday he went to sectionals, and had an off day with his putting. He did not qualify for states, and was fairly discouraged at the difference in how he played. But the day was cold, windy, and rainy, and he was dressed in shorts. He was 12 strokes over, and 9 were from extra putts, and two were from out of bound balls, a two-stroke penalty each.

And, Porter was informed that he is the first freshman in Fairland school history to make the varsity quiz bowl. Unprecedented, but believable. Mr. Hayes has had Porter eagerly hanging on the sidelines for years, had Porter and Hunter travel with you to nationals, and came up short (six) in numbers of upper level classmates on varsity, so he broke his own rule.

Dad was invited by Rick Koth to Cincinnati to see the Dodgers play the Reds. Saturday at the park also happened to be scout night. He then arranged with his baseball class to meet him in Louisville to see the Slugger Museum. Originally he was to take Hunter, Porter, Cooper, but at the very last minute, when Miller is crying and so sad about being left behind, Hunter bowed out for him. Porter's cross country schedule allowed Sawyer to go in his place. So Jarrod drove three hours to Louisville to meet up with his baseball class, then another two hours to the game, and three hours home. Eight hours driving to have no one show up from his class, and to see the Dodgers lose, 6-0. Rick was VERY excited to see the Reds win their division play offs, and your brothers had a great time going along on one of Dad's adventures. When you can catch up on blog pictures, you'll find the story there as well.

Dad gave a beautiful talk on Sunday. He shared some of Grampy's experiences in life, and became very moved while talking about him. He loves your grandfather, and is grateful for the heritage he is living for his grandchildren. It's always a treat to hear your Dad, and grandfather, speak.

I think the only one that hasn't been mentioned is Breyer, unless you're waiting with abated breath to hear about Ranger ;-) Dad calls her his little sheepdog, because she pulls bows out of her hair, and it always covers her eyes. She's speaking more words, and trying to speak more. She still hasn't forgotten you, and loves to find you in pictures. We love you, and love to find you anywhere! You're such a wonderful son, a great example for your brothers, and the light of our life.

Mom and Dad

P.S. Still waiting for the recording!!!

The Back Nine

We found some photos online taken by Southern Ohio Sports Photos...We appreciate them supporting our student athletes, and documenting these events in their lives!

Hunter finished the golf season by participating in the Ohio Valley Conference championships.

Fairland came in third out of six teams...

Hunter came in 6th place, squeaking in a place on the All-OVC Golf Team.

Congratulations, Hunter!

Letter #9 / Farewell #1

Dear Family,

I begin this letter by addressing my uncles: Uncle Aaron, you will be pleased to note that you still hold the title of Letter King. Perhaps I'll take the winner to dinner after 2 years. . . Uncle Rich, your letter detailing your 8 month study of pride has led me to begin my own long term study of a gospel principle. I am already loving it, but would be interested in learning how you conducted yours. . . Uncle Zach, you'd be so proud of me. I went 8-1 in v-ball this week with an essentially two man game of domination. set, Set, SPIKE!!! Promise to return with the Family Honor well intact.

Now Aunts: Aunt Jenny and Aunt Janel, thank you so much for your letters. I promise to write back but in the meantime, know that there never were such words to lift you as those of your family. Thanks: )
Business note: Please send all letters to my new Londrina address in the field: )

Which brings me to the absolute highlight of the week, which is saying something for this week. Monday or Segunda-Feira as they say here, was our first chance to go proselyting. I'll send more fine details later, but I'll give you my companion's version here: We had about two hours and several copies of the Book of Mormon with our testimonies written in the back and a number for the area missionaries in the front. We knew how saturated the immediate surrounding area was, so we walked about two miles out, maybe more, and started talking to people. Which, though not scary, was simply so different from everything I had ever done in my previous life. Walk up to a complete stranger and share the things closest to your heart? But that's why I'm here: ) 

The first lady we spoke with was waiting for a bus and though somewhat surprised was immediately interested. She hadn't heard of the church or the Book of Mormon but believed in Christ and we had a short, sweet conversation, leaving her with a book. She was reading it before we said goodbye. We talked to a young, 28ish, man at another bus stop, who also was initially wary of us, but at the mention of a living prophet on the earth you could see the light in his eyes and he became very excited and began asking questions. We answered as best as we could, bore our testimonies and gave him a book as well. He also was reading it intensely as we walked away. The spirit was there, and it was a wonderful experience. 

We handed out five copies and talked to many more than that, including a nice Catholic women (no), a women walking three dogs (no, but invited her to church), a teenage girl recently moved here (yes, and invited to church), the owner of the local paper store (already had one, but we talked awhile), and three heckling drunk, smoking shoeless homeless toothless men yelling quite loudly something about the Mormons (no, no, no, we tried nicely), and various other people. I realized that up till now I've just been warming up to the full realization of a mission. It was one of the most joyful experiences of my life and I get to do that and more everyday now.

Last night we performed our organ/piano duet of 'O Divine Redeemer' to great acclaim and fun. I threw in some dramatic, Phantom of the Opera arm raises at appropriate times, for extra effect. One of my teachers Brother Eric Costa recorded it and put it on his Facebook; find him and you can watch and download it hopefully: )

Well, today was also the last time I'll go to the temple for almost two years. It wasn't sad though. I felt what I imagine the pioneers must have felt in Nauvoo before they began their exodus across the plains: the peace and rest of the Lord, saying, "Peace be unto you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth give I unto you." Be not weary nor afraid. Draw near unto the Lord and He will draw near unto you. I testify with all my heart that He lives, glorified and resurrected. He stands on the right hand of God and beckons us to come. I am so very grateful for his gospel and His love in my life. And next week I pray I may share it with all I meet. Thank you for your prayers, for your letters and for your love,

Love,

Tanner

p.s.~ Just a fun side note I forgot: There's been an airshow all weekend and all day jets and planes in formation fly out from the nearby airport. They're very close and very loud. And very cool : )

Elder Cummings' mother sent them a pizza party for their last preparation day in the CTM. How cool is she?

Whittling Away

Cub Scouts has begun again, and Sawyer and I have moved up with the Bears.

It was also Cooper's first night as Den Chief for the pack, to help him with service hours and leadership positions.

Tonight we worked on earning the Whittling Chip.

After practicing with plastic knives by cutting homemade rolls and spreading jams, the real action began.

The boys found out about the Whittling Chip last year and have eagerly anticipated their turn.

Nothing like a bar of Ivory soap, and a little pocket knife to make the entire room smell fresh!

(Cooper's train.)

Cooper Tootin' His OWN Horn

Cooper has been eagerly awaiting for THIS to arrive in the mail!

The clarinet arrived today, and he's been "playing" ever since.

He was especially excited to show his father, as Jarrod is a former clarinetist.

Thanks to the family for sharing!

Reds vs Dodgers

There are serious rivals that exist in sports, and then there are the other kinds of rivals.

The kind of rivals that entice you to make the three hour drive to Cincinnati with your boys on scout day to face the competition.

Rick and his boys, serious Reds fans.

Jarrod and his boys, fans of the Dodgers.

The walk around the field allowed each to check out their competition.

Two thumbs up for the field, the players, and the sold-out game!

While the sun was shining, there was hope.

As the sun went down, along with the temperature, hope fell.

6-0, Cincinnati

National League Central Division champions!

Congratulations, Rick! Until next year!

In Dodger style, "It was a fine game."

Mr. President

First time Fairland High School has had a second term leader...

Congratulations Hunter! Junior Class President!

(To be fair, we should clarify that until last year only the senior class had a president ;-)

Princess Pony

Letter #8

Dear Family,

I'm almost out of here! This week hads its ups and downs, some in the same day, but the ups always seem to out number the downs. Such as Sunday. Our companionship goal was to not take a nap, to use the time doing something slightly more edifying. So after lunch we returned to our class and listened to several general conference talks and other devotionals (one I'll mention later). We watched the weekly church movie, which was "Legacy," and afterwards had a final choir rehearsal for our piece, " I need Thee Every Hour." Our interpreter didn't show up for the devotional so instead we had an impromptu, tri-lingual testimony meeting. It was fantastic. Afterwards, both Sister and President Degn bore their testimonies and President Degn pronounced a priesthood blessing upon the congregation. He blessed us that the righteous desires of our heart be filled, allowing us to become the missionaries we desire to become. It was very spiritual and uplifting. Well, to top it all off perfectly we sang our piece for postlude perfectly, which I may add is significant as I sang tenor and the song never dropped lower than a "d." To our surprise as we quietly were returning to our seats, Pres. Degn, on the verge of tears asked us to perform it a second time. At the conclusion of the second time, many in the audience and, even some singing, were in tears.

Yesterday, my good friend from Bolivia left and also many other Brazilian friends, including our roomomates. As Pres. Wood related in Boston, I will leave many parts of my heart here, and already have with several of the Brazilian, Hispanic, and American elders. It is never hard to see that we are all brothers and sisters.

My thoughts this week: Perhaps I have already talked about the importance of the spirit in our lives amid the newfound desire and understanding I have on this subject but it can never be overemphasized. This Sunday, I heard a great talk from Elder Bednar given at the Provo MTC sometime ago. In it he asked us to stop worrying about whether or not we always recognize the spirit guiding us. Instead, worry about being obedient and worthy and know the spirit will be with you. (Also, he referred to a great story in a talk entitled "The 20 Mark Note" by Elder Packer.) Many times he says you may not recognize at the moment that something is a spiritual impression, but it is. Almost all the time, while living righteously, we will be led by the Holy Ghost and not know we're being led. This was quite revelatory to me and I hope you see the great beauty and importance of this doctrine. It is our job to faithfullly obey God, to do what he asks to do, always. He will take care of the rest.

This week, we had a few fun celebrations. Tuesday was Chile's 102nd anniversary of their independance day so the cafeteria was decorated in red, white and blue (Chilean not American). We heard the national anthem and had popcorn at lunch. Being the creative missionaries that we are, Elder Hale and I proceeded to improve upon this celebration by adding to the popcorn melted butter, salt and dulce de leite (carmel) and tosting it in the microwave. Life-changing. We've now created several CTM culinary legends. Also highlight of the week, I GOT TWO OF YOUR LETTERS!!!!!!!!! Oh, the joy! My soul at last at peace: ) I quite enjoyed them as I do all the letters my wonderful family and friends send me.
But wait!! Lest I forget. Monday night Sister Degn let me watch Grampy's prayer. Pres Degn and Sister Degn watched it as well. I can't explain how special that was to me. It surely was a tender mercy of the Lord and I felt very close to my family and the Lord, which I expect is what Heaven will be like. I'm so very grateful for that Great Plan of Happiness of our God, that provides the way that I may spend eternity with all of you. I love you more than carmel popcorn!

LOVE,

Tanner

p.s. Sis. Steadmena sent a recording of our song. Another missionary recorded it and is sending it to you so expect.

p.p.s.- Only two more weeks!!! Are you as excited as I am???

p.p.p.s. Today in the temple the power failed and we finished the session in the dark! It was quite the experience but the work goes on, light or no light : )

With All Our Love

Dear Tanner,

We have thoroughly enjoyed reading your companion's electronic and snail mail letters home. His mother is so generous to share them with us. We read yours, we read his, and we have a more complete picture. We love this because of our love for you! We also had Aaron share his letter of your airport adventure, as well as the Bachs and Uncle Zach. More news is good news! There are two things we found humerous: That you ate "3 massive bowls of ice cream?" Why not four? Just kidding. You really were craving ice cream. And the travel alarm clock story, where you threw open the window and it went "tumbling down six stories, hitting the cement at terminal velocity." I'm glad it's not totally broken. If you happen to see another one, maybe we could replace his. He also sent pictures home of your half way day in the training center, and the half tie tradition. Those were really fun to see!

I love that you organized the CES fireside gathering. Good for you! I was surprised they weren't showing it to everybody. It took a few days, but I got to watch Elder Holland. You were right. It was an amazing talk, and his delivery was very effective. Considering what is happening in politics, there is a documented surge in Google searches about Mormons. How exciting for you to be a missionary during these unprecedented times. "In the consensus view of modern American liberalism, it is hilarious to mock Mormons and Mormonism but outrageous to mock Muslims and Islam. Why?" -Wall Street Journal Makes me excited for general conference in a couple of weeks...yeah! Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. The weather is changing slowly, and most noticeable is the lower temperatures in the morning.

Dad and I went to Dairy Queen for date night. It was close and fast, but just getting out together does wonders. We brought home ice cream and root beer from the store for the boys to enjoy. Dad ordered a Health shake, and got mostly candy and little ice cream. Needless to say, he's done with that for a while.

The scout fundraiser, making and putting in jars of apple butter happened last Saturday. There may be other activities that may be more profitable, but I love how the whole ward works together to do this. There were a few individuals who looked out for jars during the year, and got them really cheap. Bro. Pruitt emptied Sis. Cook's house of her canned goods, took the jars home and emptied them, and washed them for the youth. So there was no jar expense this year!

 Hunter went to help for Porter, as he had a cross country meet. Cooper went as well, although he never got much of a turn at the big paddle, so he spent his time making a lean-to.

 We've had a few medical students move into the ward this fall, and it was funny listening to others describe what exactly is apple butter.

Monday when I was walking Ranger and had Breyer on my back and Miller on his bike. Out of nowhere this bull dog ran up and clamped on Ranger's front leg and wouldn't let go. I tried pulling Ranger away, and even kicked (a lot) at the dog, but she wouldn't stop. So I dropped the leash, and let Ranger go to defend himself. The struggle was over very quickly, but the dog didn't want to back down so Ranger didn't let go. A witness went to get the owner, who didn't want to interfere, but eventually came out behind his truck and got his dog. When I told Ranger to "drop it," like dropping the ball he let go of the dog. And the dog attacked again! That was not on my agenda for the day! I was worn out by the time I got back to the house, and struggled physically for the rest of the day. Although Ranger's in a frail way, and 8 years old, he is very strong when he is defending his family. I'm sure you will have days where you are wearily worn from defending the gospel, but that's your job. And you'll be wonderful. You might even have a few battle wounds along the way ;-)

Seminary takes up a lot of my mental capacities. Sometimes I have to call Grampy and have him help me figure things out when I have run out of disk space. He helps me compact and order my understanding. It's been fun to speak with him in this way, as he's struggling with his health. He was told to take a break with his chemo, have a scan in October, and then go from there depending on how the scan looks. However, the good times in seminary continue. Today I gave them three scriptures, divided them into small groups, and told them they were the leaders of a newly formed country. The reporters are waiting for the announcement of their country's governing laws. Using the scriptures, they were to come up with these five laws with which to rule their country. The three girls were all mercy and service, doing everything to take care of everybody. Porter's group couldn't reach an agreement, and in the end booted one boy down to maker of the doughnuts and cleaner of the pipes. Hunter's group was pretty much on, except for rule five, all men must serve in the military. But, the characteristics of a good leader, in Matthew 20:25-28, Jacob 1:19, and Matthew 25:34-40 I'm sure apply to being a good leader in the missionary field as well. Have fun pondering this when you can ;-)

Your father and I love you dearly. Take care of yourself! Remember your brothers. Write when you can...still no snail mail from you but hopefully ours are catching you. No more have come back. Have a great week! We have just heard this morning that your postal workers are going on strike...apparently a yearly event over salary negotiations. I'm not sure what they're negotiating as everything already takes too long, but hopefully they'll figure it all out quickly and get back to real work ;-)

Love,

Mom and Dad

What Boys Create!

Aunt Janeen sent Cooper this beautiful book, just because!

Cooper fooled many people with his faux chocolate chip cookie.

Not so many fell for the brownie puff.

Cooper also helped Miller create an alien for this month's LEGO contest...

While he was working on his very large boat!

Dad helped create some beautiful hairstyles for Miss Breyer ;-)

Miller created his own version of the Ohio flag! 

Porter and Breyer filled my driveway with chalk drawings...

And Miller and Cooper made their own pup tent, out of a shower curtain.