Share America Foundation Chooses Bluegrass Music's Holder Brothers For Scholarship

The Share America Foundation, Inc. announced its 2015 scholarship winner is guitarist Garrett Holder, 18, of Ringgold.   

The events help fund the organization’s Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship. Pearl and Floyd Franks are the late parents and former entertainment managers of actor/entertainer Randall Franks, "Officer Randy Goode" from TV's "In the Heat of the Night." The scholarship honor students excelling in the Appalachian musical arts. 

“It was great honor to receive the scholarship that recognizes my interest in traditional music,” Mr. Holder said. “While my goals regarding how music will fit into my career path, I know that it will always be a major aspect of what I do and share with others. 

Mr. Holder is a graduate of Oakwood Christian Academy in Chickamauga. He plans to attend Dalton College and later East Tennessee State University. He plans a dual major in biology and bluegrass. “We were honored to present $1,000 to assist him as he pursues his college studies this fall,” said Share America Chairman Gary Knowles. 

Mr. Holder’s 14-year-old brother Trevor, who began playing banjo at age 11, was selected as a Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship Designee. 

“It was a surprise and a blessing to have my love of bluegrass acknowledged,” Trevor said. ”I have always looked up to several of the Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship recipients, especially those from Mountain Cove Bluegrass Band. I am honored to be included among such talented fellow music enthusiasts.” 

Trevor is a rising sophomore at Heritage High School in Ringgold, and he will receive a scholarship when he attends college after graduating. He is considering also attending Dalton College and East Tennessee State University. 

The Holders are the sons of Gary and Angela Holder of Ringgold.  They are the grandsons of Judy and the late Gene Holder of Ringgold and David and Dimple Gattis of Ringgold.

For more information, visit and like the Holder Brothers on Facebook. 

“Garrett and Trevor are excelling on their chosen instruments and studying to learn the many skills needed to excel on stage,” Mr. Franks said. "I see them passing along great enjoyment to many people today and in the years to come with their talents." 

Share America Foundation Board members include Mr. Franks, Mr. Knowles, Jimmy Terrell, vice chairman; James Pelt, secretary; and Jerry Robinson, Sr., vice president. 

The next Sacred Sounds Fridays is Aug. 7 at 7:30 p.m. featuring the Florida Boys at the Ringgold Depot. Admission is a $5 donation.  Mr. Franks will host the event. 

For more information about the organization and its programs, contact Share America, P.O. Box 42, Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755 or visit www.shareamericafoundation.org.