WS Chronicle

By Busta Brown

For nearly a quarter of a century, legendary radio personality Anita “Boss Lady” Arnette has been the heartbeat of holiday giving in our community. What began as a small, heartfelt gesture to help families in need has blossomed into a beloved annual tradition that has touched the lives of thousands of children. Anita’s 24-year-long Bike and Toy Drive has become more than just an event; it is a testament to her unwavering dedication to making the holiday season brighter for those who need it most.

Each December, as winter’s chill settles in, Anita’s listeners and residents rally together to donate bikes, toys, and funds to ensure that no child goes without the joy of a new gift. What’s even more remarkable is that Anita’s husband of 12 years, Rev. Jerry Arnette, is as hands-on as ever in organizing, collecting, and distributing the donations, year after year. Whether it’s loading up the back of his car with donations, coordinating volunteers, while his wife is giving heartfelt thanks on air, Anita’s passion for this cause shines through in everything she does.

“Seeing the kids’ faces when they get their bikes or toys … it’s magic,” Anita says, her voice still filled with the same warmth that first made her a radio legend. “This drive isn’t just about the presents, it’s about bringing the community together, lifting each other up, and reminding everyone that kindness is what the holidays are truly about.”

What began as a small outreach effort to support local children who might otherwise have gone without has since grown into an enormous community effort, with businesses, schools, and families all coming together to contribute. The impact of the drive has spread far beyond the radio airwaves, touching hearts and inspiring generosity across generations. Through her tireless work, Anita has created a ripple effect of giving that continues to grow year after year.

As the 24th annual Bike and Toy Drive kicks off this season, Anita’s message remains simple yet powerful: “A small act of kindness can change the world for someone.” And, thanks to her leadership, that kindness has touched countless lives, helping to create a brighter, more hopeful holiday season for families throughout the Winston-Salem communities.

“We take all donations to heart, and we are always open because each year, we receive more requests from families in need. Many of these requests come from grandparents raising their grandchildren, or from families facing difficult circumstances, whether it’s unemployment, physical illness, or the challenges of caring for a loved one. The letters we receive are truly moving. You wouldn’t believe some of the stories shared with us.”

Anita reads every letter carefully, “because it’s important for me to understand the specific needs of each family, knowing the ages and genders of the children, their unique situations, and how we can help. It’s a lot of work, but every bit of effort is worth it. The joy we bring to these families makes it all so meaningful,” shared Dean.

I asked Boss Lady to share her thoughts and feelings as she reads through some of the letters. I’m really curious to know how they make her feel. “The stories that truly weigh on my heart are the ones I’ve encountered from those who are grappling with life’s most unforgiving challenges … grandparents watching their health deteriorate, people with cancer, individuals struggling under the weight of brain tumors, and others whose lives have been torn apart by illness and financial hardship. These letters, raw, emotional, desperate, remind me of the fragility of life and the strength it takes to keep moving forward.” 

I’ve been to several of her bike and toy drives, and what’s most striking to me is the incredible gratitude shown by those who receive even the smallest gesture of help. Despite their pain and suffering, they don’t ask for more; they are thankful for whatever they receive.

It’s this kind of genuine, unshakable appreciation that touches me the most. These are the people who, in the face of overwhelming adversity, still find it within themselves to express thanks for a simple meal, a small gift, a moment of kindness. In their eyes, these offerings represent not just the physical gift, but a symbol of hope, of connection, of humanity. It’s humbling to witness that kind of gratitude because, in a world so often consumed by entitlement and demand, their ability to find joy in the simplest things stands as a testament to resilience.

If you’ve been following my articles over the years, you know how easily my heart is moved by the genuine, humble spirit of people like Boss Lady. There’s something incredibly special about her sweet and giving nature that shines through in everything she does. Her radio personality isn’t just a voice on the airwaves; it’s a reflection of her true self, warm, kind, and full of heart. When she speaks, you can feel the sincerity in every word, a rare and beautiful reminder of the power of authenticity and compassion. “It’s not about me, it’s about us. It’s about the moments we share, the hands we reach out to, and the love we give when it’s needed most. Life can change in the blink of an eye. One day, we might have everything we need, and the next, we may be the ones who need help. I always think of the song I play over and over, ‘It could have been me.’”

We never know where life will take us, or when we’ll need a kind word, a helping hand, or a shoulder to lean on. But what I do know is that we are all God’s children. We are all in this together. No one is ever truly alone when we come together as a community. When we lift each other up, when we care for one another, that’s when we show what it means to be family.”

Dean’s humility is a reminder that the love you give today, the kindness you share, it might be the light that guides someone through their darkest hour. And one day, when you need it most, that same light will find its way back to you. 

“This is my ministry, so until God tells me to stop, I’ll keep this going,” shared the beloved woman of God. My Phenomenal Person of the Week is Anita “Boss Lady” Arnette. 

Toy and Bike Drive Information: Call (336) 480-2039

Letters must be submitted by December 15th.

New, unwrapped toys are needed for children ages 1 through 10 (for both boys and girls). The toys, bikes and letters must be received by December 15th.

Toys will be available for pickup on December 19th at The Light Radio Station, 4405 Providence Lane Suite D- Winston Salem, NC