When I was a child, I used to "work" at my father's small textile mill -- one of the few that hadn't fled South in the 50's and 60's. I rolled elastic bandages and packaged knitted dishcloths and hospital blankets alongside new immigrants and Army buddies who had turned to my father for jobs post-World War II. Whether able-bodied or not, extended families found not only respectable employment as stitches, packers, and machinists but also a welcomed refuge and sympathetic ear at Fairhope Fabrics.

Perhaps it was the caring my Dad showed toward his workers that found its way into my soul. Or stories about my grandmother Rose's numerous acts of generosity — from the unsolicited delivery of coal to a family in need to the anonymous purchase of a poor bride's trousseau. Whatever it was, repairing the world became an abiding passion, whether reaching out to one person at a time or finding ways to effect community and/or institutional change. What better way to mold our culture in humanity's best image than by harnessing the power of mass media?!

As I continue on this journey called life, I continually remind myself that life is NOT a dress rehearsal… that I should always reach for what "could be"… and that "why not?" should be the standard response to nay-sayers. In an age of unbridled selfishness, I am determined to inspire others to fulfill their responsibilities to the world. Above all, I try to live each moment knowing that the choices I make will write the epitaph that measures the value of my existence on this amazing earth.