Local resident Robert Rhoades has received awards from the Georgia Country and Gospel Music Association. The awards are for "Songwriter of the Year" for his CD titled "Paths Across My Heart" and "Most Promising Entertainer of the Year" for 2009.

Rhoades is owner of Rhoades Printing Company and also interim music director of Calvary Baptist Church of Covington. In addition to being a member of the Georgia Country and Gospel Music Association, he is a member of Nashville Songwriters Association International and Georgia Music Industry Association.

"Many times when I am running a long run on my presses, I’ll get out my guitar and play. Sometimes I’ll write a tune, but I never thought that I’d receive an award for it," Rhoades said.

Rhoades credits his older brother, Eddie, for his inspiration for playing guitar, writing songs and even his artistic ability. He and his brother both have CDs comprised of their own original songs. Robert’s CD, titled "Paths Across My Heart," is mostly ballads with one fast song. "Junk Yard Jam" was written only because Eddie told him, "You need a fast song." Robert’s favorite song "Writing Their Own Love Song" was inspired by his in-laws and their love for each other.

"Inspiration from a song can come from anywhere," he said. "I have a song called ‘There’s a Song in There Somewhere’ that tells how you can get an idea for a song from any situation.

"Receiving the awards was exciting, but one of my greatest thrills is when my brother and I have gone to the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival in Gulf Shores, Ala. There we met some very talented amateur and professional songwriters who inspire you to do better each time you pick up your guitar or pen."

For 2010, Rhoades hopes that in addition to the Frank Brown Festival, to attend the Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row.

Samples of Robert’s songs can be heard online at www.myspace.com/robertrhoadesmusic.