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STAR-TRIBUNE

Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., September 9, 2015 - Page 1B

Hometown

Kentuck students reunited with Army Dad By BOBBY ALLEN ROACH Star-Tribune Staff Writer

Three little girls got a big surprise during a school assembly last week. Lorelai, 9, Taelyn, 9, and Cadence Rosenoff, 7, entered the Kentuck Elementary School cafeteria with more than 200 of their classmates for an assembly at around 1:45 p.m. on Sep. 2. During the assembly, Kentuck Elementary Principal Bobby Shields announced the names of students with high academic achievement during the first six weeks of school. Next, Shields announced that a magician who was scheduled to be there that day would not be able to arrive until Thursday. After the students’ collective sighs of disappointment were hushed, Shields said he had his own magic trick to perform for the students and he needed three volunteers. But there was a catch. They all had to be girls and they needed to be sisters. Lorelai, Taelyn, and Cadence were asked to go to the stage where they faced the crowd of their fellow students and teachers. Shields then asked the audience to count down, starting with the number 10. As the countdown approached one, the blue curtains on stage were opened to reveal their father, Army Sgt. Nicholas Rosenoff, standing behind them.

Shields then asked the girls to turn around and that was when they saw their father who had been deployed to Kuwait six months ago, and who they were not expecting to see again for another six months. The four embraced while the audience applauded and cheered the reunion. Lorelai and Taelyn are in the fourth grade while Cadence is in the second grade. Shields orchestrated the surprise when he spoke with the girls’ mother, Mandi Rosenoff, during school registration this summer. “She told me that [Nicholas] was currently serving in Kuwait and she was going to have to check her students out on a certain date when he was going to be coming back, to meet him at the airport, and I said ‘I think I can do that up one better.’ At that moment, we tried to plan to stage something that would be a really neat homecoming for [Nicholas] and a surprise for the kids,” Shields said. Keeping the surprise a secret was not particularly challenging, according to Shields. “I told no one. The only people I told were my assistant principal and [Mandi]. We tried to keep it a secret. In the last few Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune days, I alerted our faculty that Army Sgt. Nicholas Rosenoff returned to the United States something really neat was going after spending the last six months deployed in Kuwait. He to happen here,” Shields said. Mandi said even she didn’t began his visit by surprising his three daughters, Kentuck Elementary School students, during what they thought was a See SURPRISE, page 4B normal school assembly.

Meredith Gravely Dance Company competes DANVILLE – The Meredith Gravely Dance Company recently traveled to Orlan-

During the competition, The Meredith Gravely Dance Company was more success-

the Teen Lyrical Line Division for “Little Me” and the Mini/Junior Musical Theater

Page 4B - Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., September 9, 2015

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Three sisters attending Kentuck Elementary School had an unexpected family reunion last Wednesday when their father, Army Sgt. Nicholas Rosenoff, emerged from behind the curtain on the stage in the school cafeteria. Pictured from left to right is the Rosenoff family: Taelyn, Mandi, Cadence, Nicholas, and Lorelai.

Surprise

Continued from page 1B have every detail about what was going to happen beforehand. “Mr. Shields was amazing to work with about the surprise. He even kept me in the dark about some of it. It was so hard not telling the girls. Even though this isn’t the first time Nick has been overseas, it’s been the hardest on the girls,” Mandi said. The first-year principal said he was pleased with the event. “It was a blazing success,” Shields said, “It was a moment, I would have to say, that very few folks here at Kentuck will forget for a very long time.” The girls’ mother was appreciative of the

effort that went into coordinating the surprise. “I am just grateful that our daughters attend a school that supports not only their dad, but also them,” Mandi said. Nicholas is from Danville and graduated from Galileo Magnet High School in 2004. He has served in the Army since 2010. Mandi is from Sutherlin and graduated from Dan River High School in 2004. When asked how they felt after the reunion, the Rosenoff sisters replied together with a single word: “Happy.”

The Meredith Gravely Sc Finals in Orlando, Fla. Pic Alexis Reese, Cara Lynch, Minter, (Row 2) Kameryn Thacker, Mallory Woodall Madelynn Blevins, Ally Ea Taylor Moss, Caitlyn Crew Brande, Erin Blevins, (Row Goard, Assistant Director Hayes, Carleigh Coleman, Mills, Ally Elliott, (Row 6) Puckett, Logan Patterson, a

Dance

Continued from page 1B

division for their Senior Jazz P “River Deep”. On top of these prestigious a grader Alexis Reese was selec nior Dancer of the Year Final of the Year is Tremaine’s high ual honor and auditions are h petitive. Reese and Tremaine P Company member Logan Pat featured in Tremaine’s gala pro represented the school so well a of the nation’s best dancers. Tremaine’s National Finals

DCC graduate breaks industrial g DANVILLE–Marching to the beat of her own drums. That is what

The skills she gained as a student at DCC, and her self-confidence,

in itself is a confidence booster.” Russell explains that her parents,

Jackson E. Reasor, Sr., served as principal of Tunstall High School during the 1964-65 school year: its first year in operation.

Carol Reasor, now Carol Reaso ated from Tunstall High School 1965 as part of its first graduatin

Tunstall co-valedictorian e

Carol Reasor, now Carol Reasor Stowe, gradu- Pictured on his graduation day are Glen Stowe, his mothted from Tunstall High School in Dry Fork in er, Carol Reasor Stowe, and father, James “Jimmy” Stowe. 965 as part of its first graduating class. Glen graduated from Tunstall High School in 1990.

tion of the science wing and recent comBOBBY ALLEN ROACH dictorianBy expands family’s pedigree Star-Tribune Staff Writer plete facelift and new wing addition, it still

cience wing and recent comfeels the same to her. and new wing addition, it still For Tunstall High School co-valedictoriCarol also said that she believed Jarret’s me to her. an Jarret said that she believed Jarret’s Stowe’s grandmother, Carol Reagreat-grandfather would be very proud of ather would be very proud of sor Stowe, his graduation meant more than him for his academic accomplishments. cademic accomplishments. walking nd lineage are very importantacross a stage in commencement “Family and lineage are very important said. “I was sad that my father regalia, accepting his diploma, and prepar- to me,” she said. “I was sad that my father e to see Jarret’s accomplishto attend Princeton University in the was not here to see Jarret’s accomplishwould be ‘bustinging his buttons,’ so proud. He always fall. wanted It also signified an expansion of their ments. He would be ‘busting his buttons,’ to get a good education and to he would be so proud. He always wanted t-grandson do sofamily’s well wouldlegacy and the special place they he best,” addinghold that she is in Tunstall’s 52-year history. his children to get a good education and to m, too. Jarret’s father, Glen, Class of 1990, see his great-grandson do so well would s my pride in Jarret–if you f my friends, or check outwith my Carol, Class of 1965, also gradalong Reasor,she Sr., is served have been the best,” Jackson addingE. that age around the time of his acTunstall High School during th uated from Tunstall. proud of him, too. all three of the major schools year: its first year in operation. e applied, you will His probably great-grandfather, Jackson E.co-valedictorians ReaHannah Barker, left, stands with Berkley and in Jarret–if you “As far Toufas, as mycenter, pride e, that they got tired of hear- Jarret Stowe, right, just before Tunstall High School’s 2016 commencement cersor, do Sr.,jus-was the school’s first principal. talk to any of my friends, or check out my ‘Proud’ just doesn’t emony. Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., June 8, 2016 -Page 13A I feel. It does my heart good at the conclusion of the school In 1964, Facebook page around the time of his acall the hard work and time he – Mount Hermonceptance Water System year, Reasor left his PCSA position as principal at all three of the schools By major BOBBY ALLEN ROACH arning has paid off with such This is a reprint of water quality test results due to readability issues. Star-Tribune Staff Writer Farm-Life School after two to which he applied, you will probably dend,” Carol said.of“I Whitmell know in H For additional information, please refer to entire Water Quality Report Jarret is a ‘nerd,’ but he is a years there and took the helm of leadership hear, and see, that they got tired of hearFor Tunstall High School co-valed Ja unded nerd. He is a very wellpublished in the May 25, 2016 edition an Jarret Stowe’s grandmother, Tunstall’s first, and arguably critical, ing about it. ‘Proud’ just ung man. He is for a great, lovdoesn’t do jus- Caro e sor Stowe, his graduation meant mor n.” AnnualHigh Drinkingwould Water Quality Report for 2015 year. Whitmell and Brosville tice to how I feel. It does my heart good walking across a stage in commenc s commencement speech last Water Quality Test Results regalia, accepting diploma, that fall and both school’s students to know that all the hard we talked about merge a statement work and his time he and p MOUNT HERMON SYSTEM - PCSA - PWSID NO. 5143396 ing to attend Princeton University ert Einstein, in speaking of the would attend Tunstall. has spent learning hasfall. paid off withansuch It also signified expansion o Lead and Copper nius: “Everybody is a genius, family’s legacy and the Reasor had previously served as princidge a fish by its ability to climb a large Date dividend,” Carol said. “I knowspecial in plac of Contaminant Sample Typical Source of hold in Tunstall’s 52-year history. (Unit of MCLG MCL Level Found / Range Violation l live its whole life believing (frequency of Contamination pal at CallandsMeasurement) High School from Septem- some minds, Jarret is a Jarret’s ‘nerd,’ but Glen, he isClass a of test) father, id.” 0.08 (90th Percentile) ber 1950 to June 1962. along with Carol, Class of 1965, very well-rounded nerd. He is a very well- also it is important to keep that in July 2014 Corrosion of household Copper Range: <0.001 – 0.086 1.3 AL = 1.3 No from Tunstall. (every 3 years) plumbing systems (ppm) Of twenty samples collected, none we go into the world,” Stowe him for her high school were Joining experiabove the AL rounded young man. uated He a great, lovHis is great-grandfather, Jackson E l of us are going to be doctors, 1 (90th Percentile) ence was his daughter, Carol. sor, Sr., was the school’s first princip ing grandson.” ngineers. Being a genius can Range: All non-detectable Lead July 2014 Corrosion of household 0 AL = 15 Of twenty samples collected (from No In 1964, at the conclusion of the (ppm) (every 3 years) plumbing systems y anything from a successful “I’m the one person who probably never combined distribution systems) all During his commencement last as pri were below the action level year, Reasor speech left his position veling the world to just having skipped a day of school,” Carol said, exJacksoninE.the Reasor, principal of Carol Reasor,and now Carol Reasor Stowe, gradu- Pictured on his graduation are Glen a Stowe, his mothWhitmell Farm-Life School afte month, Stowe talked ofdayabout statement Disinfection Byproducts, Precursors, Residuals mily. Everyone classSr., of served as High School during the 1964-65 school ated from Tunstall High School in Dry Fork in er, Carol Reasor Stowe, andyears father,there Jamesand “Jimmy” Stowe. took the helm of lead Contaminant nius in myTunstall mind because each plaining that, in high school, she attended DateAlbert ofgraduated Typical Source of made Einstein, in School speaking year: its first year in operation. 1965 asMCL part of its first Glen from Tunstall in 1990. of the (Unit of MCLG Levelgraduating Found / Range class. Violation by forHigh Tunstall’s first, and arguably c Sample Contaminant ing his or her own path.” Measurement) schools where he served as principal. year. Whitmell Brosville High status of genius: “Everybody is and a genius, he was inspired the to reach his HAA5 -Total By-product of drinking Highest LRAA: 30 No Quarterly 2015 Haloacetic Acids N/A 60 merge that fall and both school’s st water disinfection Range: 14 32 ily by his family. Realizing the connection between Jar- but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb (ppb) would attend Tunstall. e son of Glen and Terri Stowe TTHM (Total By-product Highest LRAA: 69 ret’s graduation and great-grandfather’s tion his of theN/A science wing and recent comBy BOBBY ALLEN ROACH Trihalomethanes) a tree, it will liveof drinking its whole believing No Quarterly 2015 Reasor life had previously served as 80 water disinfection Range: 33 - 70 Star-Tribune Staff Writer (ppb)plete facelift and new wing addition, it still pal at Callands High School from Se work at Tunstall naturally left Carol re- that feels theMRDLG same to her. it Monthly is stupid.” Water additive used to Chlorine MRDL Highest LRAA: 0.61 No 2015 For Tunstall High School co-valedictori-(ppm) Carol also ber 1950 to June 1962. Jarret’s control microbes = 4 said that = 4she believedRange: 0.3 – 0.8 an Jarret Stowe’s grandmother, flecting on Carol theReayears between great-grandfather wouldand be veryher proud own of “I believe it is important to keep that in are pleased report to you accomplishments. that there were no detections of total coliforms or fecal coliforms in the monthly Joining him for her high school e sor Stowe, his graduation meant moreWe than him fortohis academic samples collected during calendar year 2015. his daughter, Carol. walking across a stage in commencement high school experience. “Family and lineage are very important mind when we go intoence thewasthe world,” Stowe regalia, accepting his diploma, and prepar“I’m one person who probably to me,” she said. “I was sad that my father The source water for the Mount Hermon water system is obtained from the City of Danville, therefore we are providing “Since my senior year was the ing to attend Princeton University in the data was notfrom herethe toCity seeofJarret’s accomplishsaid. “Not all of us are going to be doctors, testing below Danvillefirst system. year, skipped a day of school,” Carol sai fall. It also signified an expansion of their

Tunstall co

Tunstall co-valedictorian expands family’s pedigree

ments. He would be ‘busting his buttons,’

rol Reasor Stowe, gradu- Pictured on his graduation day are Glen Stowe, his mothgh School in Dry Fork in er, Carol Reasor Stowe, and father, James “Jimmy” Stowe. Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., June 8, 2016 -Page 13A graduating class. Glen graduated from Tunstall High School in 1990.

n expands family’s pedigree Jackson E. Reasor, Sr., served as principal of Tunstall High School during the 1964-65 school year: its first year in operation.

comit still

Carol Reasor, now Carol Reasor Stowe, gradu- Pictured ated from Tunstall High School in Dry Fork in er, Caro 1965 as part of its first graduating class. Glen gra

Tunstall co-valedictorian expands f By BOBBY ALLEN ROACH

tion of the science wing and recent complete facelift and new wing addition, it still feels the same to her. arret’s For Tunstall High School co-valedictoriCarol also said that she believed Jarret’s oud of an Jarret Stowe’s grandmother, Carol Rea- great-grandfather would be very proud of sor Stowe, his graduation meant more than him for his academic accomplishments. nts. walking across a stage in commencement “Family and lineage are very important portant regalia, accepting his diploma, and prepar- to me,” she said. “I was sad that my father ing to attend Princeton University in the was not here to see Jarret’s accomplishfather fall. It also signified an expansion of their ments. He would be ‘busting his buttons,’ mplishfamily’s legacy and the special place they he would be so proud. He always wanted hold in Tunstall’s 52-year history. his children to get a good education and to ttons,’ Jarret’s father, Glen, Class of 1990, see his great-grandson do so well would wanted along with Carol, Class of 1965, also grad- have been the best,” adding that she is uated from Tunstall. proud of him, too. and to His great-grandfather, Jackson E. Rea“As far as my pride in Jarret–if you would sor, Sr., was the school’s first principal. talk to any of my friends, or check out my In 1964, at the conclusion of thegraduschool Pictured as principal of Carol Reasor, now Carol Reasor Stowe, hisaround graduation areacGlen Stowe, his mothFacebook on page the timeday of his she is Reasor left School his position as principal he 1964-65 school ated fromyear, Tunstall High in Dry Fork in er, Carol at Reasor Stowe, father, James “Jimmy” Stowe. ceptance all three of theand major schools of Whitmell School to which he applied, will probably 1965 as part of its firstFarm-Life graduating class.after two Glen graduated from you Tunstall High School in 1990. Hannah Barker, left, stands years there and took the helm of leadership hear, and see, that they got tired of hear- Jarret Stowe, right, just bef if you for Tunstall’s first, and arguably critical, ing about it. ‘Proud’ just doesn’t do jus- emony. out my year. Whitmell and Brosville High would tice to how I feel. It does my heart good merge that fall and both school’s students to know that all the hard work and time he his acPCSA – M would attend Tunstall. has spent learning has paid off with such chools tion of the science wing and recent comH This is a reprint of wate Reasor had previously served as princi- a large dividend,” Carol said. “I know in facelift and new wing addition, it still For additional informat obably pleteHannah pal at Callands High School from Septemsome minds, Jarret isBerkley a ‘nerd,’ but Toufas, he is a Barker, left, stands with co-valedictorians center, and feels the same to her. ber 1950 to June 1962. very well-rounded nerd. He is a very wellfdictorihear- Carol also said that she believed Jarret Stowe, right, just Tunstall Highyoung School’s commencement cer- publis Joining himJarret’s for herbefore high school experi- rounded man. He2016 is a great, lovol very of Carol. o Reajus- great-grandfather would encebewas hisproud daughter, ing grandson.” Annual re than himemony. for his academic accomplishments. “I’m the one person who probably never During his commencement speech last tcement good “Family and lineageskipped are very important a day of school,” Carol said, ex- month, Stowe talked about a statement preparto me,” she said. “I was sad that myinfather me he MOUNT HERM plaining that, high school, she attended made by Albert Einstein, in speaking of the in the was not here to see the Jarret’s accomplishschools where he served as principal. Lead and Copper status of genius: “Everybody is a genius, hof their such ments. He would be ‘busting his buttons,’ Realizing theof connection Jar- test but ifresults you judge a fish by itsto ability to climb is aret’s reprint waterbetween quality due readability issues. Contaminant ce theyin he wouldThis be so proud. He always wanted now graduation and his great-grandfather’s a tree, it will live its whole life believing (Unit of MCLG MCL Measurement) his children to get a good education and to work at Tunstall naturally left Carol reFor additional information, please refer to entire Water Quality Report that it is stupid.” he1990, is a see his great-grandson do so well would flecting on the years between and her own “I believe it is important to keep that in Copper o grad1.3 AL = 1.3 adding thatexperience. she is y well- have been the best,”high published in the May 25,we2016 school (ppm) mind when go intoedition the world,” Stowe proud of him, too. “Since my senior year was the first year, said. “Not all of us are going to be doctors, t, Realov- “As far as my pride in Jarret–if you E. it was quite hard trying to merge the two lawyers or engineers. Being a genius can Lead pal. talk to any of my friends, or check outAnnual my “I guess 0 AL = 15 Drinking WaterbeQuality Report forfrom 2015 schools,” Carol said. I remember (ppm) defined by anything a successful school Facebook page aroundour theprom time and of his acgraduation better than anycareer traveling the world to just having ch last ceptance at all three of the major schools Water Quality TesttoResults incipal thing else. Our prom was in the cafete- a happy family. Everyone in the class of Disinfection Byproducts, Precursors, er two to which he applied,ria. ement you will probably Hannah Barker, left,2016 stands Berkley center, and Diplomas got mixed up at graduation Contaminant is a with geniusco-valedictorians in my mind because each Toufas, dership hear, and see, that they (Unit of MCLG MCL gotMOUNT tired of hearSYSTEM - PCSA -Tunstall PWSID 5143396 Jarret Stowe, right, just School’s 2016 commencement cerbecause when theHERMON band members came one isbefore choosing his or High herNO. own path.” of the Measurement) critical, ing about it. ‘Proud’ back just doesn’t do justo sit down some of the seats left vaemony. He said he was inspired to reach his HAA5 -Total would tice to how Lead and It Copper genius, I feel. doeswere my heart Haloacetic Acids N/A 60 cant in thegood wrong place.” goals primarily by his family. (ppb) tudents to know that all the hardCarol work and time he said that, although the school has climb has spent learning is the sonHermon of Glen and Terri Date of Stowe PCSAJarret – Mount Water SystemTTHM (Total Contaminant haschanged paid offthrough with such Trihalomethanes) N/A 80 the years, with the addiSample Typical Source of of Dry Fork. (Unit of MCLG Level Found / Range Violation This is a reprint of water quality test (frequency results due to readability issues. (ppb) ieving princi- a large dividend,” Carol said. “I know MCL in of Contamination Measurement) Chlorine MRDLG MRDL For additional information, please refer to Report eptem- some minds, test)entire Water Quality Jarret is a ‘nerd,’ but he is a (ppm) =4 =4 very well-rounded nerd. He is a very wellpublished in the May 25, 2016 edition We are pleased to report to you that 0.08 (90th Percentile) that experi-in rounded young man. He is a great, lovsamples collected during calendar year July 2014 Corrosion of household Copper Range: <0.001 – 0.086 1.3 AL = 1.3 No ing grandson.”(ppm) Annualnone Drinking Water Quality (every Report 3 years)for 2015plumbingThe systems Of twenty samples collected, Stowe source water for the Mount Hermo y never were above the AL During his commencement speech last Water Quality Test Results testing data below from the City of Dan octors, aid, ex- month, Stowe talked about a statement 1 (90th Percentile) Star-Tribune Staff Writer

o-valedictorian expands family’s pedigree

PCSA – Mount Hermon Water System

MOUNT HERMON SYSTEM - PCSA - PWSID NO. 5143396

Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., May 25, 2016 - Page 3C

Chatham High graduates 160 By BOBBY ALLEN ROACH Star-Tribune Staff Writer

Students in the Chatham High School class of 2016 took their final steps as high school students on Friday, May 20, during their commencement ceremony at the E. Stuart Grant Athletic and Convocation Center at Averett University’s North Campus. Chatham High graduated 160 seniors on Friday and the resounding sentiment throughout the Grant Center was that of accomplishment. Tim Carpenter led the processional as he played “Amazing Grace” on a bagpipe. Then, as “Pomp and Circumstance” began to play, the graduates marched in rows to take their seats and begin the ceremony. The Chatham JROTC Color Guard delivered the presentation of colors, followed by Lindsey Wyatt singing the National Anthem. Senior class president Tierra Woody delivered the farewell address and introduction of speakers, followed by an address by Salutatorian Christene Buchanan and Valedictorian Michael B. Adkins. Adkins relayed some advice to his fellow graduates based on his time as a soccer player. He told them to find their position, show up for practice, be a good teammate, and listen to their coach. After Adkins’ address, Lindsey Wyatt and Joshua Adams sang a rendition of Kris Allen’s “Live Like We’re Dying,” followed by recognition of scholarships by Assistant Principal Annastasia E. Broomell. This year, Chatham High School graduates earned more than $1.5 million in scholarship money. Diplomas were presented by Principal Randy T. Foster, Assistant Principals Annastasia E. Broomell and Jessica S. Dalton, and Agriculture Instructor Jason R. Ince. Principal Foster delivered the pronouncement of graduation and the Chatham High School class of 2016 headed out to be greeted by friends, family, and a future that holds endless possibilities for each of them.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Pictured from left to right are Chatham High School graduates Jeremy Lunsford, Michael Adkins, and Josh Lunsford prepare to Ryan Tinsley, Josh Adams, and Paul McKenzie as they prepare to line up for Chatham High School’s graduation on Friday, May 20. cross the stage and receive their diplomas on Friday.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Grand Marshals Lance Hardcastle and Macon Maxey greet attendees at Chatham High School’s 2016 graduation ceremony on Friday, May 20.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Charles Hurt serves as a junior marshal during Chatham High School’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20, at the E. Stuart Grant Athletic and Convocation Center on Averett University’s North campus.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

An excited guest snaps a few photos before finding her seat during Chatham High School’s 2016 commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Pittsylvania County Public Schools Director of Middle and Secondary Education Elizabeth Craig welcomes guests at Chatham High School’s graduation ceremony on Friday, May 20, at Averett University’s E. Stuart Grant Athletic and Convocation Center.

Lindsey Wyatt and Joshua Adams sang a rendition of Kris Allen’s “Live Like We’re Dying,” followed by recognition of scholarships by Assistant Principal Annastasia E. Broomell. This year, Chatham High School graduates earned more than $1.5 million in scholarship money. Diplomas were presented by Principal Randy T. Foster, Assistant Principals Annastasia E. Broomell and Jessica S. Dalton, and Agriculture Instructor Jason R. Ince. Principal Foster delivered the pronouncement of graduation and the Chatham High School class of 2016 headed out to be greeted by friends, family, and a future that holds endless possibilities for each of them.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

An excited guest snaps a few photos before finding her seat during Chatham High School’s 2016 commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Bagpiper Tim Carpenter leads the processional, officially beginning Chatham High School’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20.

Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Chatham High School’s Class of 2016 waits to be seated during the graduation ceremony on Friday, May 20, at Averett University’s North Campus.

Chatham High School Principal Randy T. Foster, left, presents Salutatorian Christene Buchanan, right, with her diploma during commencement on Friday, May 20.

Chatham High School Principal Randy T. Foster, left, presents Valedictorian Michael Adkins, right, with his diploma during commencement on Friday, May 20. Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune

Student Council Association President Jessalyn Goode gives the welcome address to her classmates and guests during Chatham High School’s 2016 commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20.

Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., September 14, 2016Chatham,Virginia, -Page 13A Star-Tribune, Wed.,

Gretna Little‘farewell’ Theatre says ‘farewell’ ttleGretna Theatre to founders Little says Theatre says ‘farewell’ to founders to fo Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., September 14, 2016 -Page 13A

is the heart of the historic district andresidents we welcome time every residents newcomers every into the wor “It is the heart“It of the historic and we welcome old time and newcomers week and into the our makeweek believe.” ric district and we welcome olddistrict time residents and newcomers everyold week into the world ofworld ourofmake believe.” – Janina Shoemaker – Janina By BOBBY ALLEN By BOBBY ALLEN ROACH

Star-Tribune Assistant Editor

– Janina Shoemaker

ROACH

Star-Tribune Assistant Editor

10 years ago, a couple found their way to the10 Town years ago, a couple of Gretna. At the time, they found their way to the Town lived in Florida, but their of Gretna. At the time, they hearts were leading them to lived in Florida, but their Virginia. “I wanted to live in thewere leading them to hearts Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia. since I was a child,”“Isaid wanted to live in the Janina Shoemaker. “We Blue Ridge Mountains first looked at Roanoke, since I was a child,” said but found it too busy for us Janina and then we discovered the Shoemaker. “We Lynchburg, Gretna, firstDanlooked at Roanoke, ville area.” but found it too busy for us She and her husband, and then we discovered the Hal, decided that Gretna Lynchburg, Gretna, Danhad the right “feel” for ville area.” them. Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune “When we found theShe peo- and Hal,her left, husband, and Janina Shoemaker, right, pose for a photo in the black box theatre ple here were so Hal, friendly, decided Gretna of thethat Gretna Center for the Arts. The center represents nearly nine years of we were hooked,” she hadsaid. the work right by“feel” the duofor and countless others in the Gretna area. The Shoemakers have In April 2008, the pair decided to move back to Florida to enjoy their retirement. them. Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune founded Gretna Little The“When we found the peo- Hal, and atre. left,we and Janina right, pose Counfor a photo in the black box theatre greater Gretna area: actors, welcome oldShoemaker, time northern Pittsylvania plewashere sosingers, friendly, “Our first meeting in were dancers, and musiresidents newcomers ty,”Arts. she said. of the GretnaandCenter for the The center represents nearly nine years of the Gretna Library we withwere one hooked,” she said. said.“GLTwork cians,” Janina is every week intoand the world Today, they to by the duo countless others in prepare the Gretna area. The Shoemakers have person,” Janina said.In“We operational of our makeRoach/Star-Tribune believe.” return to Florida, but their Aprilan 2008, the community pair Bobby Allen decided to move back to Florida to enjoy their retirement. met again with one other theatre presenting a regular Janina explained that she legacy will remain in Gretfounded Gretna Little Theleft, andperson, Janina for a photo in the black andShoemaker, then we grew. right, schedulepose of productions, hopes the center willbox con-theatre na, a town forever changed atre. greater Gretna area: actors, and we welcome oldpa-time northern Pittsylvania CounWe started rehearsing in the plusThe workshop theatre for tinue tonearly grow even though by the presence of these he Gretna Center for the Arts. center represents nine years of meeting was in First Baptist Church “Our base- first singers, musi-to residents and newcomers ty,” she said. youth. It is thriving asdancers, a she and Hal areand returning trons of the arts. k by the duo countless others in with the Gretna area. The Shoemakers have ment and and presented theshows Gretna Library one low-budget, shoestring Florida. “We week will beinto returning to cians,” Janina said. “GLT is every the world Today, they prepare to in the back Gretna to Movie The- Janina ded to move Florida to enjoy person,” said.their theatre and we“We are retirement. draw“There is community still much to of Florida, the believe.” space coast, an operational our make return to Florida, but their atre. Our first showmet was again ‘If ingwith fromone a talent pool that be presenting done,” Janinaa said. “We where I have family. that Hal she legacy will remain in Gretother regular Janina explained A Man Answers,’ and we stretches 30 minutes in theatre all would like to see the Cenhas difficulty with stairs, er Gretnafollowed area: actors, and we welcome old time northern Pittsylvania Counperson, then we grew. schedule center that with the oper- and We have been ter foroftheproductions, Arts continue hopes and ourthe Florida homewill is oncon- na, a town forever changed Weresidents starteddirections. rehearsing in the ers, singers, musi-Widow.’” andsteady newcomers ty,” she and said. etta and ‘The Merry plus to workshop theatre to grow though by the presence of these pamaking improveevolve grow for with tinue one floor,” Janinaeven said. “We Baptist Church base-world Since“GLT then, is theFirst theatre ,” Janina said. every week the they to youth.building ItToday, is repairs, thriving asprepare a she are returning ments tointo the building since including alsoand like Hal the more clement to trons of the arts. grown into ment its own and make presented purchasing itshows from a local anreturn elevatortoand a third-stoweather low-budget, shoestring “We will be returning to perationalhas community of our believe.” Florida, butFlorida. their year round. We space at 101 South church.Movie We have shoredtheatre up ry ballroom.” will be 15 is miles the to Florida, the space coast, in Main the Gretna Theand we are draw“There stillfrom much re presenting regular Janina explained thattheshe legacy will remain in ocean GretStreetaand its black box thethe floors, taken out old Janina shared that the and four miles from atre. Our first show was ‘If ing from a talent pool that be done,” Janina said. “We where I have family. Hal – an intimate concept dule of atre productions, the center will na, afortown forever stage, addedand bleacher seat- center the arts was notchanged the river.” A hopes Man we constretches 30 minutes in pair. all would the Cen- has difficulty with stairs, designed for smaller audi- Answers,’ ing,grow installed a heatthough pump, a the original goal of the theirto see impending workshopences, theatre for tinue to even by the presence of theseWith pa- like followed with the opercloser to the action that directions. We have been ter for the continueOffice: and(434) our432-2381 Florida home is on new roof, ice breakers, and “We realized in year departure, the Arts pair considh. It is thriving she andMerry Hal are returningmaking to three trons arts. of the stage.as a etta ‘The Widow.’” gutters.” thatof wethe had outgrown to eredevolve some ofand theirgrow favoritewithOffice: 484-5417 steady improveone(877) floor,” Janina said. “We “Ishoestring have always been in- then, budget, Florida. will theatre, besince returning to repairs, Since theatreof ments “Thethe operation the being gypsy a building memories at the center and 19783 US Hwy. A, clement to“We thea building including also like 29, theSuite more volved in theatre and there theatre kept movthat rehearses here an their hopes for its aprospergrown into its isown VA year round. We re and we are draw- has “There is itself still much to theatre Florida, thea space coast, purchasing it from local elevator and third-sto-Chatham, weather was too much distance being by the trust of several and there, and presents the ous future. ricky.anderson@vafb.com at 101 Janina South Main rom a talent thatandspace be done,” said. “We where have family. church. Weinhave shoredspace. up ry Hal ballroom.” will be 15 miles from the tweenpool Danville Lynchfoundations, awarding us show aI rented FarmBureauAdvantage.com Street and its black box theburg or Bedford. could grants, the taken out the with old Janina shared ocean and four miles from See FAREWELL, pagethat 14A the hes 30 minutes in all We would like to theloyal CenhasCreasy difficulty andsee by the pa- floors, The mercantile was stairs, – an trons intimate concept theatre, but atre not parstage,onand added bleacher for the arts was not the river.” who come to see our theour market, andseatwith center tions. Weattend have been ter for the Arts continue Florida home is on ticipate at that distance. designed for audiworksmaller and bring friends,” Gretna itching revitalize ing, installed a heatto pump, asaid.the original goal of the pair. With their impending ng steady improveto evolve one Street, floor,” Janina “We The solution was starting acloser Janina said. “We canwith now Main we tookand the ences, toand the grow action new roof, ice breakers, “We realized in year departure, the pair considtheatre operation we lookrepairs, s to the building since where building including also like the more clement at a former derelict chance in 2010. It was a of the stage. gutters.” three that we had outgrown ered some of their favorite Grow where building that has new winlong shot, and year is still an exhasing it were fromliving. a local an have elevator andbeen a third-stoweather We always inoperation of butround. the you’re planted. We “Isoon dows, doors, and roof right“The pensive investment, the being a gypsy theatre, a memories at the center and ch. We have shored rywere ballroom.” will from the that rehearses here their hopes for its prospervolved in on theatre there found out thatupthere itselfbeisis15 kept theatre Main and Street. It is theatre the investment in miles themovfuture very talented people in too the much was distance be-district oors, taken out the old Janina that the and miles from heartshared of the historic ofocean Gretna as the arts hub of and ing by the trust offour several there, and presents the ous future.

Ricky G. Anderson

, added bleacher seatnstalled a heat pump, a roof, ice breakers, and rs.” he operation of the re itself is kept movby the trust of several dations, awarding us s, and by the loyal pawho come to see our and bring friends,” a said. “We can now at a former derelict

on the market, and with Gretna itching to revitalize Main Street, we took the chance in 2010. It was a

Office: (434) 432-2381 Office: (877) 484-5417 19783 US Hwy. 29, Suite Chatham, VA ricky.anderson@vafb.com FarmBureauAdvantage.c

In Print Ricky G. Anderson Online Office: (434) 432-2381 Office: (877) 484-5417 19783 US Hwy. 29, Suite A, Mobile Chatham, VA

tween Danville andarts Lynchcenter for the was not the river.” foundations, awarding us show in a rented space. burg Bedford. We of could grants, and by thetheir loyal paThe Creasy mercantile was See FAREWELL, page 14A theororiginal goal the pair. With impending attend theatre, but not par- trons who come to see our on the market, and with “We realized in year departure, the pair considticipate at that distance. work and bring friends,” Gretna itching to revitalize three that was we had outgrown some of their favorite The solution starting a Janinaered said. “We can now Main Street, we took the being a gypsy theatre, a memories the center and theatre operation where we look at a formeratderelict chance in 2010. It was a theatre thatGrow rehearses their hopes for its prosperwere living. where here building that has new winlong shot, and is still an exyou’re planted. soon the and there, andWepresents future. dows, ous doors, and roof right pensive investment, but the ricky.anderson@vafb.com found werespace. showoutinthata there rented on Main Street. It is the investmentFarmBureauAdvantage.com is in the future very in the was See pageof14A heart of theFAREWELL, historic district Gretna as the arts hub of Thetalented Creasypeople mercantile

Covington Iron Works

Ricky G. A

The Star-Tribune is your source for all the

I O

Page 14A-Star-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., September 14, 2016

Farewell Continued from page 13A “Every production has moments of achievement surpassing expectations. Watching an actor move out of the comfort zone and expand into a character is the goal of the director, and to have that happen in concert with a worthy script being produced in a small venue is a small moment of pride,” Janina said. Hal said he enjoyed the shows he directed, especially when he was directing Janina. He added that he also enjoyed his acting roles. “I can only trust that the the-

atre will continue to draw interest from the entire community as children become adults, and adults find recreational activity well into their senior years. It is also an excellent way for the community to exercise diversity. We all have gifts, and theatre is an art form that calls for music, dance, design, and speaking ability. We would like to see the building we call ‘Gretna Center for the Arts’ improve and grow,” Janina said. “We have a strong board of directors, persons who have found something worth-

while in this particular arts form, and who have a vested interested in providing theatre opportunities for our greater Gretna students.” While preparing to say “goodbye” to Gretna, the Shoemakers said that they have been happy there. Hal has been involved with the Gretna American Legion and Lions Club and Janina has been active in the Thomas Carter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. “Gretna has been a welcoming village, welcoming both of us as well as the theatre. We have

seen the development of the Centra system and been part of the grassroots activity of it. And we have made many friends during the nine years of growing GLT,” Janina said. “We have seen so many youngsters (and others) grow from shy, reserved children into confident performing teens, during every summer workshop. In some cases, entire families become involved in the productions, making them truly “family productions.” Janina has a graduate degree in theatre arts in addition to teaching

credentials in English and communication. She has taught at the college level since 1984 and has performed in theatres from New York to Florida. She is also a produced playwright, a news journalist, and a theatre critic. Janina will direct her final show for the theatre, “Blithe Spirit,” in October. Curtains will open for that show on October 21 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www. performgretna.com.

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sion in pole climbing, a written skill test, hurt-man rescue, and two additional line maintenance events. All four were in competition against linemen from electric cooperatives, investor-owned utilities, municipals, contractors, and military teams from across this U.S. and several other countries. Holley, who placed well, was 12th in the apprentice line maintenance #1 event out of 303 apprentices and placed 14th overall in the REA Division while Doss, Walden, and Guynes likewise

mature to a point of now leading the way. Participating in the Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative linemen/servicemen Jamie rodeo teaches the importance of Walden (left) and Matthew Doss, both of Gretna, compete in a teamwork and the importance of line maintenance event at the International Lineman’s Rodeo watching each other’s back that in Kansas. leads to successfully completingStar-Tribune, Chatham,Virginia, Wed., November 11, 2015 - Page 1B an event with no mistakes. ElecEach rodeo event stresses safety team and apprentice proudly uptrical energy demands respect. and skill that will serve an ap- held Mecklenburg Electric CoThere are no do-overs…and mis- prentice his entire career. operative’s long-standing traditakes are deadly.” MEC president and CEO John tion of highly competitive rodeo Apprentices, like Gretna’s C. Lee, Jr., travelled with the participants at the largest ever Holley, are able to hone their group to lend his support and International Lineman’s Rodeo skills while completing the test to also stay abreast of changing – the World Series of lineman and applying their knowledge on safety and work techniques. See RODEO, page 4B safety requirements and OSHA Lee said, “Our journeyman standards used in daily work.

STAR-TRIBUNE

Hometown

Linemen compete in rodeo

Time moves for ward again on Main Street

f h will ay, Line personnel from Meck- placed well – 18th overall in the d atlenburg Electric Cooperative REA Division. By BOBBY ROACH this international m 5-7 (MEC) recently competed in ALLEN the During Star-Tribune Staff Writer

32nd Annual International Line- event, Blake Hutcherson, mankedman’s Rodeo held on Saturday, ager of Gretna district operaEugene Volk spent three days returning the clock ile Oct. 17, in Bonner Springs, as a tojudge; and at First Citizens Bank Kan. on Maintions, Streetserved in Chatham and This event is held each year to Nelson Smith, line foreman, operational form. s will recognizeVolk, the profession of line served as team coach. of Lake Toxaway, N.C., said the clock has wellthrough as demonstrate Attending year’s Interavework as been a series ofthe repairs and upgradesthis during skill, and education of its national Rodeo marked Smith’s d safety, its lifetime. some participants. theclock 15th rodeo as a partici“We Participating have upgradedinthe nowoverall to an electronic e outrodeo allows MEC’s line work- pant, coach, or judge; this insystem,” Volk said. nd ers to see, first-hand, new tools, cludes qualifying and attendWhile the mechanisms operating the clock are very new safety thethe International new, equipment, the two facesand of most the clocking look same as be-Rodeo for importantly fore. to share experiences two years as a participant and of St. with hundreds of other experi- It’slending hisinside expertise “The outside is identical. only the that’stwice as a enced lineman. judge. changed,” Volk said. Linemen/servicemen coming to MEC, I’ve He also said that heMatbelieves “Since the clock was origithew Doss and Jamie alongside a number of nally placed at that Walden location in worked the late 1800s or early 1900s.technician Jonathon younger employees, included and service all of particiing themade members of this year’s ys Guynes, Volk saidGretna, he and his wife, Barbara, three trips ve pated as a journeyman team in team,” Smith state, said.to“Watching to Chatham to assess the clock’s then-current pole climbing, hurt-man compete is like remove the unusablerescue, old parts,them and then to install the cheering aysand two line maintenance events. on my very own children – I’m upgraded parts. is Apprentice Thelineman north-facing of theproud clockof stopped work- become Jasonside Holwho they’ve ood ing several years ago, resting at 6:34, and the southley, also of Gretna, represented and how they’ve grown. I’ve s stopped approximately months ago andlearn, and in thesideapprentice divi- seen18them develop, oriesMEC facing at 4:12. a written mature to a point of now leadsion instopped pole climbing, says therescue, new machinery thatthe operates the clock skill test,Volk hurt-man and ing way. Participating in the Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative linemen/servicemen Jamie is self-correcting, meaning thatrodeo if the clock loses ast two additional line maintenance teaches thepowimportance of Walden (left) and Matthew Doss, both of Gretna, compete in a r events.er, it can reset itself when electricity is restored as well teamwork and the importance of line maintenance event at the International Lineman’s Rodeo can All four as self-adjust daylight savings time. each other’s back that in Kansas. were infor competition watching e against linemen Volk hasfrom beenelectric repairing since the 1960s. completing co-clocks leads to successfully “I’m a mechanical engineer andevent it justwith seemed like operatives, investor-owned utilian no mistakes. ElecEach rodeo event stresses safety team and apprentice proudly upidays a follow-oncontractors, trade. The nice thing about it is you know respect. and skill that will serve an ap- held Mecklenburg Electric Coties, municipals, and trical energy demands ented youfrom did itacross right and you did it wrong bemilitarywhen teams thiswhen There are no do-overs…and mis- prentice his entire career. operative’s long-standing tradicause either the countries. clock runs ortakes it doesn’t run,” Volk U.S. and several other are deadly.” MEC president and CEO John tion of highly competitive rodeo eCare said.who placed well, was Holley, Apprentices, like Gretna’s C. Lee, Jr., travelled with the participants at the largest ever Volk knew his line workmainwould result in something d 12th in the apprentice Holley, are able speto hone their group to lend his support and International Lineman’s Rodeo the community. ty, tenancecial #1for event out of 303 ap- skills while completing the test to also stay abreast of changing – the World Series of lineman heard14th fromoverall a lot of people that havetheir walked prentices“We’ve and placed and applying knowledge on safety and work techniques. by while we’re working on it saying they’re so gladand OSHA See RODEO, page 4B in the REA Division while Doss, safety requirements Lee said, “Our journeyman d. thatand somebody’s goingstandards to fix theused clockinand Bobby Allen Roach/Star-Tribune Guynes finally likewise daily work. h Walden, we’re just glad to be a part of it,” Volk said. Eugene Volk stands with his wife, Barbara, in front of the newly-repaired The clock face is illuminated from within by a white gn light and surrounded by green stained glass on both clock at First Citizens Bank on Main Street in Chatham. Volk repaired the ng clock over three visits from his home in North Carolina. sides.

Time moves for ward again on Main Street

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By BOBBY ALLEN ROACH Star-Tribune Staff Writer

2016 Free

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