Atnip Family

Jim & Marilave

Jim, Dad, is the backbone of the family band, and the rhythm guitar player ever since his children began music in 1996. It was his goal to have an entire "live played" band. He is a busy General Contractor, enjoys hunting, and very much loves his family! He and the family are founders of the Gospel Messengers Music Festivals , which began in Cody, WY in 1998. He is a Gideon in their local camp. His family believes he is a top-notch amazing father and husband.

Ben & Alyssa

Benjamin James,26 the first Banjo picker, married a wonderful girl, Alyssa Richard, on May 1, 2010. He helped his dad in construction since age 13. Then he went into aviation, and is a busy charter/corporate pilot and flight instructor in Cody, WY. He has logged 3000+ hours. He is currently completing his final subjects for a bachelor's degree in Aviation Science. The family sure misses traveling with him, but they are so thankful for the years he could go along on ministry tours! All are so thankful for the Lord's blessings on his and Alyssa's lives!

Kim

Kimberly Dawn,24, is the oldest daughter,and previous fiddle player, and also harmony and lead singer. She is known for her warm smile, and caring ways. She married a very good young man, Kevin Sorrell, on April 18, 2009 and she now lives in Edmond, near Oklahoma City, OK where Kevin works in accounting. She owns and operates a home care business, and keeps busy being an excellent homemaker! They both continue to join the family on some prison ministry singing events and tours. Their first baby, Kandis Danae Sorrell, was born Dec. 29, 2010! Lord willing they plan to bring her on part of the family prison tour this winter!

Joe

Joseph Stan, 22, mandolin and guiter player, was the first born of twins. He’s a quiet, talented and dependable guy! He been dad's right hand man in construction, beginning at age 9. Also he a great hunter and an excellent hunting guide! Joe is an exemplary hard working young man, bringing honor to his Lord! He won 2nd place with his Mandolin in a state contest a number of years ago and was always excellent in school.

Julie

Julie Ann,22 is Joe’s twin. She's an enthusiastic, multi- talented young lady. She has done some yodeling and also plays bass and sings lead and harmony parts. She enjoys working with horses and is currently a CNA and does Home Health Care for the elderly. For several yers she worked in food services. At home she does most of the family laundry, ironing, animal chores, irrigation, and has the gift of gourmet cooking.

Karissa

Karissa Lorae, 19, is a violin fiddler, lead singer, and works as a busy Para Sub, (assists teachers for the Cody Public schools). She also works part time in Home health care. She is the is the family's seamstress, and a big help teaching her siblings school, and adds much joy and laughter in the family. She is an excellent cook and homemaker!

Duane

Duane Lee,17 originally the Dobro player, is now also banjo picking on various songs! He is also our bass singer. He adds witty humor to our home conversations, and works hard, long hours with his brother and Dad in construction.

Kaylena

Kaylena Rose, 14 is full of energy! She plays violin duets and participates nicely in lead singing. She especially loves having company, going to Bible events,garage sales, shopping, and values her girl-friends. She keeps busy with Math, helping with lawn work, and babysitting neighbor kids.

Luanna

Luanna Joy, 11 is an academic, quiet natured, gifted gal. She finds it easy to sing lead or harmony parts.She has a servant's heart, and loves reading the Bible and good books, and is way ahead in school. She's done well raising chickens and providing and selling fresh eggs and enjoys her miniature pony and donkey!

Jaylynn

JaLynn Rae, almost 8, is a bouncy, smiling sweetheart. She is a good lead singer, and is a constant companion and teacher to her brother David. She loves her miniature pony and cat! She spends much of her free time outdoors. She is well into the 4th grade already and loves Awana and her friends.

David

David Wesley 4, loves "singing' and is a talkative boy! He loves Choo-choo trains and recently requested we change his nick-name to "Train Track." He enjoys Lego's, and just started kindergarten! Going to Awana is his favorite activity. He wants to be a construction worker like Dad and Joe, when he gets big. He does many chores around the house, and is kind to the other children his family babysits. He is expressive regarding his thoughts and often expresses love, loyalty, and affection for his family.