When it comes to tackling difficult issues and the needs of others, Hank Rogers can be found front and center, ready to lend a hand. No task is too small, or too large.

Take, for example, when Rogers learned of 10-yearold Jake Hardin's leukemia diagnosis.

Rogers, along with members of the Harvest Time Riders Motorcycle Ministry and many others, wasted no time organizing the 2nd Annual Isaiah's Motorcycle Run, and "Eatin' for Jake" barbecue fundraiser. Recently held at the Athens Wal-Mart, nearly 200 motorcyclists arrived in formation at the end of the run to pay tribute to the young lad from Murchison, and help raise funds for his treatment. "This is a tough time for him," Rogers said. "He's a great kid."

A fifth grader of the Murchison ISD, and the son of Matt and Stephanie Hardin, Jake is currently undergoing cancer treatment and hopes to return to school after the Christmas holidays.

"I feel like I'm famous," Jake said, of the celebration held in his honor complete with several members of the Athens Volunteer Fire Department, and the landing of the ETMC Air 1 helicopter.

Rogers is no stranger to the effects and devastation of cancer.

In May 2006, he endured chemo/radiation therapy for throat cancer, and has since been given a clean bill of health.

"This means everything to me," Robers said during the fundraiser. "People really reached out to me when I was in his condition. I owe it to God to do this for him."

Believing he has been given another chance to serve others, Rogers tossed his hat in the ring to run on the Democratic ticket for Henderson County Pct. 3 Commissioner, and says he is truly dedicated to the office of County Commissioner if elected.

"First and foremost, I promise to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Rogers said. "I also intend to be nothing less than frugal when it comes to budgeting and spending the hard earned dollars of the taxpayers. I will distribute those dollars evenly throughout the precinct."

Finding solutions to problems and helping people comes easy to Rogers. Aside from his business, Hank's Barber Shop, and serving as pastor of the Harvest Time Riders, Rogers helps out wherever he is needed.

"Helping people is what you're supposed to do," he said.

Although he ran unopposed in the March primary election, Rogers garnered 1,332 votes while his Republican opponent incumbent Ronny Lawrence, who also ran unopposed, collected 1,499 votes, a difference of 167 votes.

"We did real good in the primary, and I appreciate all the good folks of Precinct 3 voting for me," Rogers said. "I want to be your next County Commissioner, and promise to do my very best to serve the citizens of Pct. 3, if elected. Your support is greatly appreciated. Together we can make a difference. "

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.