In the spring, he was elected as the state president of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles.
And one of Tony Paytes' duties was to choose a state charity.
When asked why he selected D.A.R.E., Paytes, 67, mentions a daughter who teaches at Courtland High School, a grandson who is a senior at the same school and more grandchildren who will soon enter the world of elementary school.
The reason is personal and yet not.
Paytes mentions the dedication of the deputies in the Sheriff's Office who bring the how-tos of saying no to drugs, alcohol and peer pressure to classrooms.
Choosing D.A.R.E. is a choice for children, explains Paytes, who serves as secretary and club manager of the Spotsylvania Aerie 4391 of the Eagles.
"The more we can pour into it, the better it's going to be for our country--because the future is the children."
Paytes' goal is to raise $25,000 by May 31 when he leaves office. He began serving as president in June.
Paytes said the money will come from the clubs in the state. There are 28 in Virginia. Each aerie will have a fund-raiser for Paytes' charity.
Paytes has been an Eagle for about 14 years. Another office he holds is that of international sports director.
This year is his fifth appointment for this position. As sports director, he decides where benefit sporting events will take place in the United States and Canada.
These events raise the bulk of money for seven national charities supported by the Eagles.
The Spotsylvania Aerie supports youth activities, including various sports teams and the Spotsylvania Sheriff's Office.
The club's auxiliary is holding a Red Cross Blood Drive and free health fair on Saturday. Proceeds from the lunch and bake sale will go to the Spotsylvania D.A.R.E., the Heart Fund and a fund to fight diabetes.
To reach KATHLEEN LEWIS: 540/374-5000 ext. 5749 klewis@freelancestar.com