Two Sudden Evacuations
A few weeks back, news cycles were dominated by the withdrawal of US troops and personnel from Afghanistan. Few Americans opposed the pullout but many continue to be very concerned by the lack of forethought and the swift takeover of the entire nation by the Taliban. The failure to adequately…
Physical and Spiritual Fitness
As I shared in a previous column, two years ago I was privileged to enjoy a trip to Colorado to hunt western game. My father’s taxidermy shop implanted a lifelong dream within me to pursue elk and mule deer and experience the Rockies. Having been warned by veteran hunters, I…
Recalibrating Our Hearts
One of my part-time jobs in high school was working for a huckster. My boss left Maurertown very early every Wednesday morning to travel to northern Virginia to sell fresh produce, eggs, and meat. He had a regular route and standing orders from customers that he filled faithfully each week…
Sharpening Each Other
Each trade has its own set of specialized tools. Auto mechanics, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and all others have their own instruments unique to their individual professions. But nearly all such vocations rely on some type of cutting tool. As a taxidermist, my father used countless knives during his career. In…
A Different Kind of Salamander
Anyone interested in valley history owes it to themselves to read Norman H. Scott’s book, Shenandoah Iron. This treasure contains many stories about the prosperous iron industry that once thrived in this area and, together with its agriculture, created a climate not unlike today’s Silicon Valley. Sadly, all that remains…
Safe Behind Enemy Lines
Much of the world’s attention has been focused on Afghanistan and the tenuous situation there. Americans, Christians, and those who have assisted the US continue to need our prayers as the days drag on and as the crisis deepens. Pray for preservation of life, liberty, and property. As I’ve watched…
Fighting Our Orangutans
It’s that time of year when county fairs rotate around the valley. Some surrounding counties have already enjoyed theirs and Shenandoah County’s begins next weekend. Children are preparing livestock, adults are baking, canning and selecting their best vegetables, and mechanics are gearing up for the demolition derby. Fairs bring all…
The Praying Moose
As many readers remember, my father operated Bowers’ Taxidermy for over 60 years. Not only was his work iconic, but his shop became a landmark along the Valley Pike. I consider it a privilege to have been his son. I’ve shared before that dad’s shop was always fascinating as customers…
Training For the Olympics and Life
Many people around the globe have enjoyed watching the various events of this year’s Summer Olympics. From track to soccer to swimming and more, over 11,650 athletes will have competed in 339 events before it is all over. According to the Washington Post, somewhere in the neighborhood of 5,000 gold,…
An Unexpected Upgrade
When I was a freshman at Virginia Tech many years ago, I had the privilege of meeting another student that would become a lifelong friend. Not only did Marlon and I share the same birthday, we also shared the same Savior and a love for agriculture and the outdoors. A…