THE SECRET OF GIVING

Secret of Giving Updates

Support from Today's Country Maghttp://www.todayscountrymag.com/secretofgiving625.htm Amber telling Reba about the SOG

I recently got a chance to meet with Mrs. Reba McEntire and talk with her for a few minutes. I also told her about the Secret of Giving, so for us out there who are helping with the SOG and trying to raise money, I wanted to tell yall what she said. I told Reba that I didn't know if she had heard about it or not but that I thought someone from Reba Ranch House might have sent her something about the Secret of Giving. Reba said that yeah, she has heard about it from a few people and I told her that it was to honor her while raising money for the Ranch House all from her fans and we all have worked very hard on it. Reba said "Well say thanks for me, and that I really appreciate it! I know it must be hard work and I'm sure the people over at the Ranch House appreciate it too. Yeah, tell em' thanks a lot for me" She seemed really happy and was all smiles while I was telling her! Amber Reba McEntire In Denison For Reba's Ranch Groundbreakinghttp://www.kten.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp?vt1=v&clipFormat=flv&clipId1=3793517&at1=News&h1=RebaMcEntireInDenisonForReba'sRanchGroundbreaking

Reba McEntire was in town Saturday for the groundbreaking of "Reba's Ranch House" at the new Texoma Medical Center. Deeda Payton caught up with the local superstar at the event.

The Reba's Ranch House has been a home away from home for families of critically-ill patients for nearly 20 years. Now, the new facility is expected to be even bigger and better.

The original ranch house was built in 1992, with proceeds from five years of Memorial Day concerts by local superstar Reba McEntire.

Reba was born in Chockie, OK, which is approximately an hour away from Denison, and says she understands the need for a place like the ranch house.

"My family has been a part of the Texoma Medical Center for years, coming down here, getting medical help," says McEntire. "So, we understand what it's like to have to sit in a waiting room or wonder where you are going to sleep. So, that's why the Reba's Ranch House is so important to us, so people do have a place to go when they have friends and family in the hospital."

More than 24,000 people have found the comforts of home at the ranch house during their time of need. Guests may stay at the there for a minimal cost of $15 per night, or free, depending on the person's ability to pay.

And Saturday, the Texoma Health Foundation announced it's donating $2.4 million to continue the dream.

Denison Mayor, Robert Brady, says Reba's compassion and generosity makes her a role model.

"You are a blessing and an inspiration to all of us, and you represent all that is good about our country," says Brady.

But, in Reba's eyes, the people of Texoma are the true heroes.

"I love this area because you do still get up and say prayers," says Reba. "You do say 'I pledge allegiance to the flag,' and you still honor your service men and women. Why wouldn't you want to be a part of this community? Thank ya'll for having me."

Saturday's groundbreaking was the first stop in Texoma for the country singer. On Memorial Day, she is performing a benefit concert for Reba's Ranch House at Choctaw Casino.

- Deeda Payton, KTEN News.