The 2009 recipients of the Steve Thomas Memorial Lifetime License are: Jacob Ogle, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Ogle; Christian Wood, son or Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Wood; Blake Bowman, son or Mr. and Mrs. Larry Bowman.

The recipient completes an application and writes an essay on why he (or she) likes the outdoors and would like the lifetime license. An adult writes why they support the recipient’s decision.

Jacob applied for the lifetime license for fishing. He wrote that, with the license, he could fish anywhere in Virginia. Jacob loves being outside and is a boy scout working toward becoming an eagle scout. Jacob’s father wrote he is committed to be very involved with his children and in the great outdoors and God’s wonders.

Christian applied for the lifetime license for hunting. He wrote that, with the license, he could hunt on more land. Christian loves to hunt turkey but hopes to kill his first deer this year. Christian’s father wrote he is committed to be very involved with his children and in the great outdoors and God’s wonders.

Blake also applied for a lifetime hunting license. He wrote he has always enjoyed the outdoors and admiring God’s creation. Fall is his favorite time of the year. Each fall, he and his family enjoy hunting camp. His older brother wrote the adult essay. He wrote that memories of hunting with Blake and their family bind together in his mind to form a lasting bond. Nature was enjoyed, memories were made and the Lord was thanked.

Steve’s family wants to thank the recipients and their family. They have helped us to remember and appreciate the bond we had with Steve. Steve enjoyed nature, hunting and fishing. We made wonderful memories and we thank God for Steve.

Steve left us Dec. 27, 2001. So each year his family remember Steve by offering the lifetime license for hunting or fishing to youth 16 and under. For more information please contact Steve’s parents, Walter and Wanda Thomas or Steve’s uncle, Wendell Horton.