In case you haven’t already read the newsletter that was sent out today…
John Paul DeJoria, the man behind the funds for Grow Appalachia, visited Kentucky yesterday. Several members of Growing Warriors had the opportunity to chat and eat lunch with John Paul and his wife, Eloise, during their short but sweet visit. JP, Eloise, and their house manager flew over from Malibu, California, just to come visit with some folks from Grow Appalachia, tour the Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program’s beautiful farm, and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared using ingredients from their own farm as well as from Growing Warriors. This was a great opportunity for John Paul to see just what his funding makes possible, as well as a great opportunity for networking and seeing just what this great man is all about! Mike Lewis had the opportunity to interview John Paul before he left, who says that for every dollar – up to 10,000 – donated to the Growing Warriors project, he will match that donation. Wow!
Frank, JP’s house manager in Malibu, chatted with us while we were in the van to and from the airport. “He really walks the walk,” Frank said of JP. But he doesn’t flaunt anything. Frank spoke genuinely, yet very highly of JP and Eloise. “He has several projects right now, but I think this (Grow Appalachia) is the one he is most excited about lately,” Frank told us. JP was not afraid to get his hands in the dirt, and learn more about everyone he came in contact with.
It was a great pleasure to have John Paul, Eloise, and Frank in for a visit yesterday, as well as the program director of John Paul’s Peace Love and Happiness foundation, Constance. What a great lunch shared in great company. And what a big deal for Growing Warriors! Thanks to everyone that came out, and very special thanks to BDVP for such a beautiful farm, lunch, and great hospitality. And of course, many thanks to John Paul and company for the great visit. It’s an honor to meet the man behind what makes Grow Appalachia possible, and to learn more about him and his family.
Group shot! Tommy Callahan, JP and Eloise, Jessica Ballard, David Cooke, Constance, and two member of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
Frank, Wayne, and Mark Walden. A rare photo opportunity, as Mark was everywhere but in front of the camera somehow…
JP digging up some garlic!
Beautiful flowers from the BDVP farm. What a perfect table setting.
Such a good meal. Not pictured: dessert! Honey cake with local honey and raspberries from BDVP! Mmm!
Mike Lewis interviews JP. It’s a good thing that Mike didn’t get too close to the horses, or else they might have tried to eat his beard…
Mike Lewis and the lovely Eloise.
Peace, love, and happiness.
Great Work Guys!