Each year around the holidays for 20 years, Danville Riverview Rotary Club collects items or donations in order to send care packages to servicemen and women, generally with a connection to our club that are serving outside the continental US. 
 
Over the years, we have shipped packages to all branches of the military in locations such as Afghanistan, all over the Middle East, S. Korea, Alaska just to name a few.  Over the years, we have had assistance from our Interact Clubs as well as outside organizations.

We strive to send more care packages than they can handle as it is common for them to share with folks in their unit who might not receive packages or just need a treat.  Club member Brett Jackson heads this yearly service project.

“We are so thrilled to present to Brad Hoover the distinguished honor of being a Kingsport Chamber Lifetime Member,” said Ted Fields, Kingsport Chamber chair and executive vice president and market executive with Powell Valley National Bank.  “Brad has served his community faithfully for so many years, giving of his time and talents in several key volunteer leadership positions with numerous organizations in this community, including having held the Board president’s position of our Kingsport Chamber.  More importantly, Brad Hoover is just a great guy, a friend and neighbor to anyone he meets.  He is always willing to give, donate and help any person or cause he encounters and does so with selfless humility and a caring heart.  Well done, Brad Hoover, on this most-deserving accolade.” 
 “I have had the honor and privilege of knowing Brad Hoover for the majority of my life and I can say without reservation that he is one of the best community servants, friends and leaders with whom I have ever been associated,” said Miles Burdine, Kingsport Chamber president and CEO.  “I truly admire, respect and look up to Brad Hoover for so many reasons.  Brad has led and helped this community and so many people by giving of his time, wisdom and good-natured spirit.  When I was deployed to Iraq with the United States Marine Corps in 2005 and 2006, Brad Hoover was there for me by helping to take care of my family here at home and serving as Kingsport Chamber Board chair during a very challenging year.  Those are just a few examples of the giving and kind nature of Brad Hoover.  Everyone who knows Brad Hoover loves him and I am so happy we can recognize him with our organization’s highest distinction.  It is so well deserved.”

The Kingsport Chamber Lifetime Member Award goes to an individual who has made an enormous contribution to the Kingsport Chamber and the community throughout his or her lifetime.  A native of Kingsport, Brad Hoover recently retired after a 40-year career as an executive and leader in the banking industry.
 
A 1978 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School, Hoover earned a Bachelor of Science degree in administrative management from Clemson University in 1982.  In addition, he is a graduate of the Tennessee School of Banking, Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking and Tennessee Commercial Lending School.
 
Hoover has donated his time and talents to numerous organizations and served in several key leadership positions in the community, including: Kingsport Chamber president (2006); volunteer and chair for several Kingsport Chamber programs – Fun Fest (1999 chair), Keep Kingsport Beautiful, Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau (now Visit Kingsport), Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Leadership Kingsport, S.H.O.U.T.!® Youth Leadership, and Government Relations; Downtown Kingsport Rotary (president in 1995 and 2014); Kingsport City Parks & Recreation coach and Advisory Committee; Kingsport Boys & Girls Club (coach, Board of Directors and Foundation Board); Kingsport Public Arts Council; Junior Achievement of the Tri-Cities; American Red Cross; and the Downtown Kingsport Association (1997 president), among others.

This December, Rotary District 7570 proudly highlights Edward Jones as a Platinum Sponsor, celebrating over a century of dedication to creating a brighter future for individuals, families, and communities through trusted financial guidance.  

For over 100 years, Edward Jones has been helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized relationships and a disciplined, client-centered approach. Serving more than 8 million clients, the firm’s mission extends beyond wealth management—it’s about partnering for positive impact to improve lives and communities.  Edward Jones’ success stems from its branch-office business model, with over 15,000 locations across North America. This model empowers financial advisors to provide personalized investment advice tailored to individual client goals. Supported by the resources of a Fortune 500 firm, advisors build lasting relationships, helping clients stay on track toward achieving their dreams.

The firm’s long-term investment philosophy emphasizes quality investments aligned with clients’ goals and risk tolerance. This clear and straightforward approach appeals to those who value reliable guidance in navigating life’s financial challenges.  Edward Jones doesn’t just invest in financial success; it invests in communities. Through its partnership with Rotary, Edward Jones amplifies the impact of service projects that transform lives locally and globally. Whether it’s supporting youth programs or championing health and wellness initiatives, Edward Jones’ sponsorship helps Rotary clubs create lasting change.

Under the leadership of Managing Partner Penny Pennington, Edward Jones continues to foster an inclusive culture that values innovation, community, and the power of human connection—qualities that align seamlessly with Rotary’s values.

On behalf of Rotary District 7570, we thank Edward Jones for their generous sponsorship and their commitment to making the world a better place. Their support fuels our shared vision of serving humanity with integrity, purpose, and hope.  For a list of the individual Edward Jones financial advisors participating in the sponsorship, visit here: https://www.rotary7570conference.com/edward-jones-advisors.
 

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

As we enter this season of joy, reflection, and service, I am reminded of the unique bond we share—a bond rooted in the belief that together, we can make a difference. December invites us to celebrate our successes, refocus our efforts, and renew our commitment to "Service Above Self."

This month, Rotary International emphasizes Disease Prevention and Treatment, one of our seven areas of focus. From supporting local health initiatives to delivering medical supplies globally, Rotarians are tackling critical health challenges with creativity and compassion.

I’ll never forget traveling to India in 2017 to deliver polio vaccinations. That moment transformed me from being just a member of Rotary to truly becoming a Rotarian. Knowing I helped prevent this dreaded virus from crippling another child wasn’t just a gift to them—it was a profound gift to myself.

This December, I encourage you to consider: What gift can your club give to your community? Whether partnering with a local organization, raising awareness, or launching a new project, the opportunities to make an impact are endless.

Moments of Gratitude

As I reflect on the year, I am deeply grateful for the passion and dedication you bring to Rotary. From service projects to fellowship events, you embody what it means to create connections and change lives. It’s truly humbling to serve as your district governor.

This holiday season, let’s also extend our fellowship and compassion to those who may feel isolated. Invite someone new to your club’s socials, fundraisers, service projects, or meetings. Give them the gift of Rotary—a community built on purpose and friendship.

And if you’re still searching for the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for Rotarian, consider a Rotary LOVE ornament. Proceeds support the Peace Center Endowment at the Rotary Foundation. Order yours here: Rotary LOVE Ornament.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Rotary’s mission. I look forward to seeing the incredible impact you’ll make as we close out 2024 and head into the new year.

Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and the spirit of Rotary,

Bret Hrbek