Radio show host celebrates her blessings

By Kristen Garrett
Herald Staff Writer

For 30 years a local woman has been using the radio to communicate a special message to anyone who will listen, and now she’s celebrating.

Sarah Hailstock of Farrell on Sunday evening celebrated the 30th anniversary of her radio show, “Showers of Blessings.”

The celebration was held at Greater Mount Zion Church of God in Christ, 1825 Roemer Blvd., Farrell.

Guests who turned out to help Mrs. Hailstock celebrate included about 18 local ministers plus several musical groups.

Mrs. Hailstock’s program can be heard on Hermitage-based WPIC radio at 7:45 a.m. Sundays. She said the show began as a way to bring worship services to the elderly and shut-ins who could not get to church each week. She said she wanted to lift their spirits and pray for them. “We’re the only church they have,” Mrs. Hailstock said, adding that different pastors from the community are guests on her show each week.

Mrs. Hailstock said when she began “Showers of Blessings” she had no experience in radio. Al Zippay, who was the manager of the former WFAR radio in Farrell, gave her a spot. She said he taught her everything she needed to know to have her own radio show, but that didn’t stop her jitters.

“I thought I was going to die. I really did,” Mrs. Hailstock remembered. “I thank God for Mr. Zippay.”

In the beginning, Mrs. Hailstock said, the show featured a lot of traditional gospel music but it has evolved to include guests, call-ins and more contemporary Christian music.

“It’s a great satisfaction,” Mrs. Hailstock said of her show. “There’s no money involved — not for me. I don’t get paid.”

But there are bills that have to be paid. Mrs. Hailstock said the show has regular sponsors, and people often make donations. She said a local couple sends her money every week.

“I’m not trying to get rich,” Mrs. Hailstock said, adding that God has always provided for her and her family.

In order to help finance her show, Mrs. Hailstock runs a flea market at Idaho Street and Hamilton Avenue in Farrell. There she sells everything from clothing to appliances and furniture. Mrs. Hailstock said she doesn’t charge a lot for the items, and if buyers are needy, she works with them. “I want to help them,” she said.

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