Dear Editor:

    “July 10th 2010, a day that shall live in infamy.” Ok perhaps not… but the memories will last for at least a year. That is until our reenactment next summer.

    “The Race to the Rhine” was a complete success. This due in no small part to our wonderful hosts the Heritage Foundation & The Big South Fork Scenic Railway. These fine folks made us feel right at home and gave us a wonderful period backdrop to use for the show.

    Frank Abbott and his World War Two mini- Museum provided and interesting peek into history with such rare artifacts as pieces of Hitler’s personal china set and much more. Frank comes up every year at his own expense to entertain and educate the crowd. Frank, You’re the best!

But “The Race to the Rhine” had the support of many others as well and for this support , I’d like to take the time to thank these very special people and business’ that have stepped up to the plate and helped make “The Race to the Rhine” such a success.

    Doyle Morgan and “the Stearns Barber Shop” in downtown Stearns KY. Along with “Tower Crafts“, “Granny’s Quilts and More“, Cuttin’ Up Hair Salon and “The Stearns Restaurant“, “Sweet Creations” and “the Big South Fork Motor Lodge,” “The McCreary County Bank“, “Forcht National Bank“, “Murphy’s Appliance“, Big “M” Discount, and we can’t forget Claude Davis and “The Coalminer‘s Jamboree.”

    These are just a few of the many business’ that placed a flyer in their window and helped spread the word about our show. If I have left anyone out…( and I’m sure I have)…… please forgive me.

    But there are some other folks that I would like to mention as well. These folks went the extra mile for us and for that we are truly grateful to them.

    The McCreary County Record for their outstanding coverage of the event.

    James Lay and the gang at Giovanni’s Pizza in Pine Knot passed a flyer with every pizza. Great pizza in a down home atmosphere. Thanks guys!

    Dairy Cheer in Pine Knot, Once again they welcomed our reenactors coming up from the south with friendly salutations on their sign, welcoming our boys in and letting them know they were in the right place.

    J.C. Egnew and the fine folks of Outdoor Venture Corp. for providing some camo fabric and a shelter for the troops to eat under. I would also like to thank J.C. for providing shelter for our boys from the driving rain on Friday night. Because of J.C. these boys were able to perform on Saturday instead of becoming sick. Thanks J.C. !

    Plateau Drugs sent a flyer out with every customer at their location in Oneida, TN. Plateau Drugs carries the largest selection in the area of Melissa and Doug toys as well as a large selection of knives including Case, Smith and Wesson and Schrade. They also are a P. Graham Dunn engraving dealer.

    Sandra Cundiff and Kroger U-Save for donating soft drinks and water to keep the troops hydrated. Thanks Sandra!

    Hap Strunk and “Southern Smoke” provided our P.A. system. Thanks Hap!

    Suzanne’s Fine Dining and Buffet. Suzanne and her crew made the troops an outstandingly delicious grilled chicken dinner. Now that hit the spot after a hard day of fighting.

    The Parkland Motel on Hwy 27. They provided some of our reenactors a great night’s stay at their fine establishment. Thanks to Wanda Worley.

    And J.R. Strunk and the gang down at the “Fastway” Marathon convenience store across the street from the battle site at highway 1651 & 92. They provided a discount for all the fellows in uniform. If you need it they got it. From apple juice to Zippos J.R.’s got you covered.

    Tony Cordell for letting the Allies use his period trailers for cover. Thanks again, Tony!

    Most of all I’d like to thank the people of McCreary County. Because of you folks and your support our show has and will grow bringing more and more people in to see just what McCreary county has to offer. As I’ve said before we have the friendliest people, the most fantastic views and natural wonders found nowhere else but here. We are truly blessed to live in such a wonderland. But here in McCreary county I guess “It’s Our Nature.”



Thanks to all and see you next year!

Dave Nutter

McCreary County Tourist Commissioner