Behind the Beans Vol. 3

Strengthening Community Roots: Lending a Helping Hand

Author: Valerie Forrider

Within a small community, it is primarily the number one goal to lend a helping hand to uplift those around us despite the challenges we all must face. For those working behind the scenes to make our community a better place today, tomorrow, and further down the road, it truly takes a village in the light of offering a helping hand like others when presented with numerous fundraisers, raffles, etc. Candice and Larry Hess also serve on organizational boards in pursuit of the betterment of our county and community. 

Candice Hess serves as a board member of the Meigs County Foundation, established in 2011 to create a way to increase and advance the philanthropic resources presented through gifts, grants, or bequests to benefit the broadening of the community. Their mission is to provide a platform for those to give back to Meigs County while investing those grants to further the benefits offered to Meigs County residents.

Larry Hess serves as a board member of the Appalachian Center for Economic Networks (ACEnet), with a mission to grow the regional economy to support entrepreneurs and strengthen economic sectors. When asked why Candice and Larry Hess sought to serve their community through their organizations, they responded, “For organizations, they are typically seeking out specific skills for new board members to fill out their already robust member list. This could be specific to fundraising, community outreach, fresh ideas, social strategies, etc.” Leaning into the skills that serve the community through a positive lens from all angles is what Candice and Larry acknowledged and leaped into through their organizations. Larry expressed that his presence on the board of ACEnet is twofold: he was approached due to his restaurant and entrepreneurial skills and specifically wanting more of Meigs County businesses to be part of the organization.

For Candice, she knows how to organize. The Meigs County Foundation sought her out for her ability to organize events, ideate, and get things done. She also represents a thriving business community and has a heart for unity within our community. 

With Candice and Larry Hess serving their community through these organizations for nearly two years and counting, they expressed their deep gratitude and goals to continue giving back to those around them. When asked what it truly meant to them to give back to their community, they responded, “Being able to give back means everything to us. Whether monetarily through donations to small benefits, items for auctions, or time serving on boards and organizations, we live for giving back to the community that has given so much to us and other local small businesses in the areas.” Giving back to those who gave is the ever-driving constant to continue the betterment of the county, the community, and beyond. Candice and Larry Hess express their goals in bettering those around them and the community in all aspects, individually and collectively. Their expression of giving back the support the community has graced them with is the utmost aspect that they thrive on and makes River Roasters Coffee Co. a great place. 

Beyond the owners, our very own staff lend helping hands within the community. William “Buddy” Shiltz volunteers and leads a 12-step Christian based Recovery Program through NorthBend church called Celebrate Recovery. Buddy has been affiliated with this program in helping others find their path since 2019; while also volunteering at New Haven Grade School since 2018 as a mentor to the 4th grade class. He offers the one-on-one time to those students struggling or are not offered that support at home. Beyond the various events Buddy volunteers at through NorthBend Church he expresses his enjoyment and self purpose in why it truly means so much to him stating, “I love doing volunteer work and helping the community because over the years I’ve realized that just giving a little time and effort can impact others in a positive way”.

July Employee of the Month: Sarah Morris

Congratulations to Sarah Morris!

We are thrilled to announce that Sarah Morris has been named July’s Employee of the Month! Sarah is an exceptional member of our team who embodies positivity, dedication, and a love for continuous learning. Always radiating positivity, Sarah’s uplifting attitude brightens up the workplace, making it a more enjoyable environment for everyone. Sarah is determined to learn new skills and takes every opportunity to expand her knowledge. Her dedication to personal and professional growth is truly inspiring. You will start to see her regularly on the barista station as she is now trained up and ready to serve you favorite RivRo drinks to perfection.

Thank you, Sarah, for your hard work, enthusiasm, and the positive impact you make every day. You are a valuable part of our team, and we appreciate everything you do. Check out some of Sarah’s Favorite things at River Roasters, it just might be your next favorite thing.

Employee Spotlight Favs: Sarah

Breakfast: Spinach Feta Quiche 

Lunch: Caprese with a little bit of extra pesto 

Pastry: Vegan & Gluten free Maple Walnut cookies ✨

Drink: Iced Matcha latte with oat milk 🍵 or an iced half-sweet Samoa latte with oat milk ☕️

Cheesecake: Pumpkin 🎃🍂

Favorite memory: There are too many to choose from. When you work in such a fun and loving atmosphere, memories are created all around and it’s hard to single out just one. All memories made at River Roasters hold a special place in my heart 💗

Favorite part of the job: Honestly everything, from the team work to all of the little details that make our little shop run smoothly, I love it all. At River Roasters I not only get to work with people that I love and care about, I also have the opportunity to be involved with our community firsthand and meet new people! 🫂🌟

Big Bend Blues Bash

Join Us for the 24th Annual Big Bend Blues Bash!

Get ready for an unforgettable two-day journey through the soulful sounds of blues, roots, and rock, right on the picturesque banks of the Ohio River in the heart of downtown Pomeroy, Ohio.

When: August 2-3, 2024

Where: Downtown Pomeroy, Ohio - Along the Banks of the Ohio River

Featuring: Philip Sayce, Bywater Call. The Cold Stares, Johnny Rawls, Shaun Booker, The Hourlies, Renee Stewart Band, Connor Christian, Stone Quillen Band, Dragons Eye, The Codgerz, Wicked Trixie, Street Noise.

Experience the Magic: Live Performances by Renowned Artists, Delicious Food and Beverages, Arts and Crafts Vendors, Fun for the Whole Family.

Tickets Available Now! Don't miss your chance to be part of this incredible musical extravaganza. Book your tickets now and get ready to feel the rhythm of the 24th Annual Big Bend Blues Bash!

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.bigbendbluesbash.com

Let the music take you away on the banks of the Ohio River!

*Information collected from the Big Bend Blues Bash event information section*