News

June 2011

NFS partners with Doe River Gorge for camp scholarships

HAMPTON, TN - With several members of the local media and community in attendance last Thursday, June 9, Nuclear Fuel Services (NFS) presented Doe River Gorge Ministries with a check for $20,000 to provide scholarships for kids and teenagers in Unicoi County to attend summer camp at Doe River Gorge.

Approximately 40 students will have the opportunity to zip down 700-foot ziplines, rappel down 90-foot cliffs, enjoy whitewater tubing on the Doe River, make dozens of new friends, and have life-changing truths built into their life by a dedicated team of counselors and support staff.

"We recognize the connection between strong communities and good business, and we understand that the future of Unicoi County depends on our children," said Joseph G. Henry, NFS President. "We are pleased to be able to provide the opportunity for local children to enjoy the unique personal growth and team-building adventures at Doe River Gorge."

Through outreach to local schools and churches, Doe River Gorge has already awarded scholarships to over 20 students, and anticipates receiving many more applications. During the first week of camp, three NFS-funded students made significant life decisions and discovered freedom in the message of Jesus Christ that Doe River Gorge presents to every student.

"When kids come to Doe River Gorge, they will experience fun, adventure, acceptance, and love through a variety of life-changing and exciting activities and programs," said Terry Maughon, founder and President of Doe River Gorge Ministries. "We want kids to know that God loves them and has an incredible plan for their life. Doe River Gorge is honored to add NFS to our long list of supporters who help us accomplish that mission."

May 2011

Gorge Goat rescued

Congratulations to 12-year old Josh Rapcan of Kingsport, TN, winner of a mountain bike donated by Hampton Trails Bike Shop. Entries for the bicycle giveaway were accepted at the Doe River Gorge kiosk in the Johnson City mall during March and April.

April 2011

Meet Paul and Silas...

Just arrived from Shiloh Ridge Farm in Jonesborough, TN are a pair of 8-year-old Haflingers, donated by Barry Osborne. Paul and Silas join eleven other horses and are used in Adventure Quest and Day Quest summer camp programs. (see also: Junior Manes N' Tails...)

Horse Arena Construction

Preparation for the new Manes N' Tails equestrian program is under way. The new arena will be suitable for training and exhibition. (more...)

Volunteers arrive

Rusty and Tonja Johnson of Charleston, SC are volunteers on assignment with the SOWER organization and will be here through September. Tonja will manage the Gift Shoppe and Rusty will help in a variety of project needs including: repairs to deep-water raft, stone step construction at Mountain Meadows lodge, lifeguard stand repairs, etc. Volunteers are a major blessing to us! To be a part of the volunteer team, call Ken at 423.725.4010.

2010 (October) SOWER volunteers

Six SOWER couples (l-r) Willie and Sandy Tyree, King and Jackie Fulton, Jim and Eula Luckey, Carl and Ann Everett, Ron and Shirley Jennings, and Emmett and JoAnn White joined hands and hearts with DRG for three weeks in October working on projects that included: painting, electric horse fencing repair, masonry foundation for new entrance sign, mowing equipment repair, sewing, gardening, and more.

For more information about how you can get involved as a volunteer (retired or not)...call 423.725.4010, or e-mail DRG

Carter Co Chamber of Commerce Leadership Tomorrow

Ten new members from Carter County businesses and organizations enjoyed two days of get-acquainted and team-building activities in September. "Leadership Tomorrow" outgoing director, Kathy Pierce will pass responsibilities to current Carter County Sheriff, Chris Mathes.

Joshua Mancuso - new marketing director

Josh graduated from Emory & Henry College in 2003 with a B.A. in Mass Communications and from Luther Rice Seminary in 2010 with a M.A. in Ministry Leadership. He has previous experience in youth ministry, writing, and video production. He and his wife, Anna, were married in 2005. They have one daughter, Amilia, and are expecting another girl, Ella, in October.

Josh will be the point man to make DRG known both locally and around the country through a variety of media formats.

September...SOWER volunteers

Three SOWER couples (l-r) Willie and Sandy Tyree, King and Jackie Fulton, and Rusty and Tonja Johnson have been busy at work for three weeks in September. What a blessing to have great folks like these stepping in to help! Over the years, thousands of man hours (and lady hours) have been logged by energetic retirees who have a passion to serve God with their hands and hearts.