Driving Notes

In Memory of Dr. Joe

The most emotional moment I’ve experienced in my adult life was the birth of our daughter, Rachel on April 8, 1998. It seemed like one moment I was laughing with joy and the next moment I was crying with joy. I still remember holding Marcy’s hand, holding Rachel for the first time, then hugging Dr. Joe Nussbaum in the delivery room at Knox Community Hospital, clutching onto him and thanking him as the tears flowed openly. By that point, I think everyone else in the delivery room was crying, too!

Today I learned of Dr. Joe’s passing at the age of 70. Friends, this was a man that had an incredible impact on the lives of many Knox County families. I know the Rinehart family is not alone when we say Dr. Joe will always have a special place in our hearts.

I met Joe for the first time when I was calling Mount Vernon High School football and basketball games on the radio. His son John was an assistant coach for the football team, and I had the privilege of watching his youngest children, twins Jim and Anne, compete in football, plus boys and girls basketball. Both Jim and Anne attended MVNU and I was able to continue watching Anne’s career as a member of the Lady Cougars basketball team. I admired Joe because he and his family were always a fixture at games and wildly supportive of their children. I’m sure that wasn’t easy considering Joe’s constant “on-call” status.

My wife will be the first to tell you that she doesn’t like going to the doctor’s office…but she trusted Dr. Joe implicitly and valued his expertise…and so did I. Early in our marriage, Marcy found out she suffered from endometriosis, and it was Dr. Joe who walked us through the uncertainty and helped us through it…a couple years later he did it again when we suffered a miscarriage, then shared our joy when Rachel arrived.

So to his wife Christine and the Nussbaum family, our prayers are with you…we will miss Joe but are so thankful we had the honor of calling him “our doctor.”

-Joe

September 16, 2010 1

To Save a Life: My Two Cents

A few weeks ago, Marcy, Rachel and I sat down and watched the film “To Save a Life,” recently released on DVD. Some of you may know about this movie…it’s getting a good amount of play in youth groups and churches and did pretty well in its limited theatrical release last fall. And since it’s rated PG-13, it’s something you shouldn’t show to small children. But I highly recommend this film for parents and youth leaders, and PLEASE don’t give up on it just because the content makes you uncomfortable.

“To Save a Life” follows the story of Jake Taylor, a high school basketball star in California whose life is turned upside down when a childhood friend takes his own life in a school hallway. Jake struggles with guilt and “what if?” as he considers how he could have potentially kept this tragedy from happening. In the process, he meets a pastor, starts attending a youth group, and finds that making a life change has it’s fair share of challenges, especially within his current circle of friends. As his journey continues, he realizes that following God can be tough, but that he likes the change happening inside of him.

The film’s screenwriter is Jim Britts, a youth worker who told us this week on The Morning Thing that he wrote the story not as a “Christian movie,” but instead to accurately depict the challenges, questions and pressures that young people are facing in American society, and give parents and kids a chance to open up a dialogue about them.

Sex, alcohol, drugs, social cliques, divorce, teen pregnancy, cutting and Christian hypocrisy are all addressed in this film. This film is as real as it gets. Some teens who saw the movie told Jim in emails that they felt like he just set up a camera on their campus and started filming.

The movie attempts to show how no problem, no matter how big or small, is apart from God’s plan and His love. It also challenges us to not just talk the Christian talk but walk the walk…there’s one scene in particular that really hits home, when Jake, brand new in his Christianity, calls out some of the fakers he meets in the youth group and asks them, “what good is this if it doesn’t change you?!!” And you know he’s right! How can we convince others to walk alongside us in Christ when we aren’t following his will ourselves? A very humbling and convicting scene.

So, parents, as your kids watch the film, be ready to have these conversations. Be ready to share your experiences, both your triumphs and your struggles, and how God’s love and God’s plan can comfort and heal us when we are broken or confused.

And don’t be afraid to tell your kids that the journey is a LIFELONG journey. One thing I did like about “To Save a Life” is that the ending simply takes Jake on to the next phase of his life…showing that a walk with Christ doesn’t end in an hour and 45 minute film. It is a continuing journey. Jim’s sequel book, “Jake’s Choice,” will be released next month and follows Jake to college as a scholarship player at Louisville, and the continuing journey as he faces new pressures.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)

-Joe

September 10, 2010 0

Best Friends Forever

How often do you talk to your best friend? Everyday? Twice a day? Or do you constantly text back and forth? Human beings have the need for social interaction with other human beings. It’s part of life. But how much time do we spend talking to our God? He is suppose to be our best friend, but I certainly don’t find myself praying as often as I text my friends. God longs for us to talk to him just like we look for chances to visit with our friends.

How would you feel if you had a friend who only talked to you when he wanted something? I know that I wouldn’t consider that person to be a very good friend. I was thinking about how much of a “friend” I truly am to God. I am trying to remember to actually talk with Him during daily devotions and not just thank Him for the day and then pile on my burdens. I want to be best friends with Jesus and that means giving Him my time. It’s the least I could do after the whole dying for my sins thing.

Just a friendly reminder that in our busy lives we can still make time for our BFF…….God.

-Jayme

August 25, 2010 0

Blessed beyond measure

Here I sit, on a Sunday night, reflecting on another festival-filled week, and the one thought that keeps running through my head is…I’m a blessed man.

Why? It’s pretty simple. I get to do what I love for a living, do it with my family, do it for God’s glory, and in turn get to meet and work with some amazing, fun and talented people.

This week, not only did we do live radio broadcasts from the Hartford Fair and the Dan Emmett Festival, but Derek Tupper (WNZR Music Director and MVNU student) and I got to work with the gang from I-CONN Video Production to help provide video support to this year’s festival. Talk about a team effort…you had I-CONN, MVNU, Wayne Bower and Jordan Sound all bringing their time, equipment and energy to provide video for the screens at the main stage, plus gather footage for future promotional videos.

For me, it was a flashback to my college TV days when we were out every Friday night doing High School sports and other days and nights doing parades, school board meetings, etc…etc…the thrill of doing live video and doing it well is a neat feeling. Why? Because it takes a team of people, putting their own interests aside and working together…and we all know life is so much richer when we work together. So…my thanks to Matt Starr and Scott Swingle of I-CONN for inviting us to help, and to the whole crew for your work. We had a BLAST.

My thanks also go to two of the finest people I’ve known while living and working in Mount Vernon- Pat and Sandy Crow. Their passion for promoting Knox County, keeping the Dan Emmett Festival alive and well, and their excellence in event planning and execution is incredible. I’ve seen first-hand the work and hours they put in. I had to give Sandy a hard time Saturday because as we stood in front of their office around 4pm , watching a torrential downpour, she was still telling people “hey, the Colonial Kids are singing at the Place at the Woodward!” Always the promoter! The next time you see them, just do me a favor…say thank you.

And then, there’s our extended family…the MVNU students who keep us hopping every day but bring Marcy and I so much joy as we watch them develop their skills. Our “Big Blue Crew” was awesome this weekend! I have to give a special mention to Kaylee Nicks, who spent Wednesday at the Hartford Fair with me and also two days at Dan Emmett while battling a kidney stone…she should have been at home resting, but she didn’t want to miss what was happening. Kaylee, you defined “gutting it out.” We also had Kaylee’s boyfriend, Dan along for today as part of our crew. So to all of you- Kaylee, Dan, Jayme, Sam, Derek, Drew, Heather, Sarah…thanks for everything.

And to Marcy and Rachel, thank you for being alongside me on these adventures. I know I don’t say it enough, but thank you…and I love you! Getting to work with your family, being involved and invested together in God’s work is something I don’t ever want to take for granted. Marcy’s energy and passion for this radio ministry impacts everyone she comes into contact with…including her husband! This Friday, we will celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary and begin our 6th year of working together at WNZR. Rachel’s willingness to jump right in and help is something I know all parents can appreciate.

We all have blessings in our lives…sometimes, it just takes some quiet time to help us remember. Oh, and did I mention I tried deep-fried Buckeyes at the Hartford Fair?? Check out the video and pics at the WNZR page on Facebook. Have a great week! May God continue to bless you.

-Joe

August 15, 2010 0

It’s been a fair week

The last week or so has been a whirlwind for Jayme and me…a full week at the Knox County Fair, then spending Monday at the Ohio State Fair, and Tuesday’s Veggie Tales event with ‘Sweet Pea Beauty.’ So, it seems like today I’m finally sitting down to reflect…and share some of those stories with you.

I heard from one father who told me Tenth Avenue North’s music has really “gotten to him.” He says he’s been a casual listener of the station because his kids like to listen, but now the lyrics are really starting to get through. For guys, sometimes it’s hard to admit that something has stirred us emotionally, but I think songs like “Healing Begins” and “Hold My Heart” convey the peace that comes when we finally allow God in…to help us as we confess our failings or disappointments, and help us heal and repair.

We also heard from a woman at the Ohio State Fair who told us she moved back to Ohio last summer, moved in with sister and heard her listening to Christian radio online. Her initial reaction was “what in the world are you listening to?” In the beginning, she wanted no part of it, because her alcohol and drug habits took priority in her life. One day, she sat down and really listened to a Jeremy Camp song. Again, as she told us, the lyrics started sinking in…she started attending church with her sister, and she told us she was celebrating her victory over substance abuse by coming to see the artist whose music made the initial breakthrough. Very inspiring…and I told her that her story would be a great motivator for our staff.

Then, Tuesday, as I watched a couple hundred small children enjoy Veggie Tales, I was reminded of something I heard recently…”whoever wants the next generation will get them.” It’s a scary thought…but I was thankful that God has provided the resources for creative minds like the folks at Big Idea to reach children at an early age with a message that God loves them JUST THE WAY THEY ARE. I’m also thankful that our station can be a vehicle to bring those messages to kids. Parents, I assure you that God wants this next generation. So, please…do what you can to help them get to Him.

Please keep praying for WNZR as we seek to do God’s will and glorify Him…and thank you for the stories of how Christian radio is helping you in your daily walk. Keep them coming!

-Joe

August 5, 2010 0

Fair time, people!

It’s Knox County Fair time…and depending on who you are, that phrase may bring different reactions or emotions…but make no mistake about it, the fair is a BIG DEAL in this county. We have nearly 1,300 local kids in 4-H and Junior Fair…so think about the number of families influenced by those kids.

I’ve been asked many times over my almost 20 years in radio why stations make such a big deal of going to the fair. To me, it’s a no-brainer. It’s the people.

That’s where your listeners are. People who listen to your station come to the fair, bring their families, significant others, whatever. It’s an event for all ages and all walks of life. Listeners get a chance to put a face with the name, but more importantly, so do we. You build relationships, personally and professionally.

That’s where potential listeners are. I guarantee you that there are Knox Countians who still don’t know WNZR exists, and we may find them this next week. There are new people in this community…we meet them every year. We want to connect with those people!

Why? Because our station is built on glorifying God, and a big part of that is letting people know there’s a place they can go and get a message of hope, love and forgiveness. A place where they can get good, solid programs to deepen their Bible reading and the relationships in their families. A place where they can be inspired, blessed, challenged and even sometimes convicted.

Still, some people don’t get it. Honestly, some only see the fair as hot, dirty, noisy and stinky. Some folks have even developed what I would call “fair snobbery.” It’s like they’re lowering themselves to go. It cramps their style. My advice to those people…lighten up…and pack some hand sanitizer! You’re missing out!

We’ll see YOU at the fair!

-Joe

July 23, 2010 0

One of Those Days

Have you ever had “one of those days”? I’m sure you have. It’s a day that is out to get you and you can’t escape it. My particular “one of those days” took place last Tuesday. I was on my way in to work when I realized I needed to get some gas if I was going to make it all the way to Mt. Vernon. I stopped at the only gas station remotely close to me and walked inside to prepay. Upon reaching the cash register I saw a sign that read “Cash only, no checks, credit cards, or debit.” Of course, foolish me had no cash and was “up a creek” so to speak. With no gas stations close enough on the way to work, I was forced to back track 20 minutes and get gas. After researching the subject I discovered that credit cards have been out for 64 years and this place still doesn’t take them…………..

So my day was off to a rough start and it only got worse……..

I was heading home from work now and my car has no air conditioning, so I drive with my windows down. When I go home I started rolling up the windows as usual only to discover that my driver’s side, front window was no longer functioning. Of course it couldn’t get stuck in the “up” position because that would make the impending thunderstorm a lot less concerning. I urgently drove to my uncle’s house (the only person close to my house that knows alot about cars) and he was able to help me get the window up, but now I will have to purchase a new motor to go into the driver’s door.

Needless to say it was a rough day. I’m sure there was a life lesson to learn, but I haven’t discovered it yet. What I’ve learned so far is to always carry a couple bucks in your wallet, (or purse ladies) just in case. The other lesson is to bring a cold water bottle with you to work because it’s going to be a hot drive when your window won’t roll down.

-Jayme

July 19, 2010 1

Amazing Patience

Ever had one of those days where you just feel a massive wave of frustration? You see things that need to be done, or need to be changed, in your home, your work, your family and you think: there’s just NO WAY it’s going to get done. Why is that so frustrating?…and more importantly, what can we do about it?

Something I think helps is when we recognize that our frustration many times is a product of impatience. Our fast-paced, instant-gratification world has shaped us into thinking that we need to get it all done NOW. I’ve fallen into that trap many times. It’s at that point we need to remember God’s word, which reminds us that patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)…and have you ever thought how patient God is with us? He loves us despite our rebellion against His teachings and our tendency to try to solve things ourselves. That’s amazing grace, and amazing patience.

How do we become more patient? We need to lay our frustration and impatience at His feet and simply ask Him for wisdom…to guide us toward a life that displays patience (and the other fruits)…and then mirror it to others. Ask him for the wisdom to have amazing patience in your life today.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 (NIV)

Have a great rest of the week!

-Joe

July 15, 2010 0

The Day After

If you know me, you know I’m a sports fan, so watching LeBron ditch the Cavs last night was, well…certainly one of the most dysfunctional things I’ve seen in my 41 years. A PR trainwreck for James, compounded by Cleveland owner Dan Gilbert’s emotionally-charged response letter. BUT…the Morning Thing did such a great job of putting things in perspective this morning, there’s no need to write more. Marcy and Sam did a great job of reminding us there’s only ONE King we need to keep our focus on.

Quite frankly, my biggest disappointment yesterday was not LBJ leaving, but the fact that rain stopped my major home improvement project of the week- re-painting and staining the deck 😦

In case you haven’t heard, the lineup has been released for this year’s SonFest outdoor music festival at MVNU, and we at WNZR are thrilled to welcome some incredible artists again this year. Please note that the date is October 2, so it’ll be a couple weeks later than usual. Hawk Nelson and Britt Nicole will making their first-ever appearances at SonFest, and returning from past years we’ll have Thousand Foot Krutch, Group 1 Crew and Manic Drive. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 16th, so mark it on your calendar now!

Have a great weekend…and thanks to Jayme for holding down the fort this week while I took a few days to get some long-needed home projects done.

-Joe

July 9, 2010 0

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