When one first hears the word pride, most I feel think of it in terms of the negative connotation. Meaning someone who thinks more highly of themselves than he or she ought. This definition of proud is not an incorrect one, but as the VALOR group toured all over Southwest Virginia, the other definition of pride was… Continue reading Pride & Hospitality
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3 Themes of Seminar 6: SWVA
#1: We Want to Grow; Bigger and Better! From Carroll County to Wise County, I heard story after story of success. The VALOR class visited Virginia Produce Company, Vanguard Furniture, and the Worrell family vegetable farm, and several other places in Carroll County. Business is booming! The owners of these businesses could easily sit back… Continue reading 3 Themes of Seminar 6: SWVA
The Soul of the Matter
VALOR recently visited the overflowing beauty in the mountainous area of Southwest Virginia, a group of counties long known for their devotion to coal industry, strong culture, and lilting accents. Little towns tucked in among steeply covered tree-filled slopes look calm and complacent from the winding road in - but minutes away on main street, empty storefront… Continue reading The Soul of the Matter
Obtaining Results
If you follow this blog, you know by now that our VALOR II group is travelling the Commonwealth and beyond, learning about Agriculture, Leadership, and a lot about each other. Our July trip to Southwest Virginia added a whole new level of learning and a whole new level of people obtaining results in their communities. In… Continue reading Obtaining Results
Cycle of Growth
Our most recent VALOR excursion landed us in Southwest Virginia. Known throughout this great land for their tough resolve, hard work ethic, and independent way of life, Appalachia Virginia offers a view of rugged beauty in both landscape and culture. As I reflect on our experience, I cannot help but think of the economy of… Continue reading Cycle of Growth
Far, Far Away
Being a father of a little girl often means watching her favorite movie over and over; often until you have memorized every line and scene. Shrek 3 is that movie for me. I have seen this movie countless times, but to Bailey, it is always fresh and new. Maybe it is a comfort thing; I… Continue reading Far, Far Away
Distances
Our VALOR trip to Washington, DC in May has had me thinking a lot about distances. Of course the obvious one - how relatively close DC is to my home, but how long and awful driving into and out of there can be. But also how fortunate we on the East Coast are to have… Continue reading Distances
Teamwork!
Participating in VALOR is no small task. It takes time and dedication from the fellow, their family, colleagues, and employees. In mid-May myself and the Class II of VALOR spent five days in Northern Virginia and Washington DC. I did all I could at home on the farm to make sure my absence would leave… Continue reading Teamwork!
Who speaks for me?!
Our recent trip to Washington D.C. was astounding. Many people looking like they are in a hurry to go nowhere! Most places, you have to stand in line. Many people to talk to with many different opinions from all the United States. When you enter this very urban setting, you can't help but feel as… Continue reading Who speaks for me?!
Urban Agriculture
Our last VALOR trip was to northern Virginia and to visit our nation’s capital, Washington DC. We talked with many government agencies about agriculture policy and how they lobby to help protect the environment and help to sustain agriculture in this country. The group also got to see many different ways that agriculture works in… Continue reading Urban Agriculture
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