35 Under 35 • 2018

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35 people under 35 who are making a difference in the Tri-State

magazine

A supplement to The Tribune • Weekend Edition, Sept. 29-30, 2018

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Troy Allen

Alan brown

Title: Owner Business: The Home Store City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 30 Family: Lesli Allen (Wife) Luke Allen, 5 year old son

Title: Technical Media Producer + Manager/Guitarist Business: WSAZ and The Dividends (band) City: Chesapeake, Ohio | Age: 27

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Make no excuses — the world owes you nothing.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: The iPod. Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Information is my hero.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Math.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Charisma.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: See the Pyramids in Egypt.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Driven.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The year 2200 – Just to see how

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: “Better people always better people.“ Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Probably a local guy named Josh Webb. Even as a kid, I always gravitated towards him because he did his best to make other people around him better. He always found the positives in people, and I always found that he brought the best out in people. He is honest, and attentive to everyone around.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Ireland, for sure.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Kind, charismatic, complimentary of everyone, except for myself.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The 1950s. So many new cool things were happening, and I kind

far humanity has come.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Steve Jobs.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I am a Ragin’ Cajun.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: To reach the Forbes top 500 companies.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: Expert Secrets. It brings to light simplistic concepts in your business to generate more revenue.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be? A: Toothbrush.

of like how unconnected things were. People went to record stores, instead of streaming music. Talking on the phone was an option, instead of just texting. We weren’t just a social media login away from seeing everyone. More time was spent in person with one another.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

Carter Beauford Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: A lot of people know now, but I was/have been suicidal and clinically depressed.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Skydiving, hands down.

The Home Store, LTD — GENERAL CONTRACTOR — • Custom Kitchens and Bath • Windows • Siding •Roofing 612 Oak Street, Ironton, Ohio • 740-442-7183

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Kate barker

Casey Compston

Title: Co-Owner Business: The BARKer Shop and BARKer Farm Petting Zoo

Title: Owner/Portfolio Administrator Business: Compston Wealth Management City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 29 Family: Married to Kimmi Compston, 2 dogs and 8 cats

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Follow your dreams. I have always loved animals and I consider myself fortunate to spend time with furry creatures in both of my businesses.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Anyone who steps out of their comfort zone and chases their dream, no matter how crazy people think you are. I remember when my husband quit his job, and we just went all in and opened our grooming business. People thought we were nuts and that we would never make it in this small town.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: I didn’t have one. That’s why I tell kids, “College is not for everyone, and that’s OK.“ You can make a good living using a trade and, hey, I don’t have any student loan debt.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The past. My grandma was a huge part of my life, and there is

not one day that goes by that I don’t think about her.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: My husband and I met at a dog wash over 20 years ago. I was washing dogs to earn money, so I could go to the county fair, and he brought my neighbor’s (his cousin’s) dogs over. They were trying to set us up and, all these years later, we are still washing dogs.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Walt Disney. He stepped out and did crazy things. He has changed the world for generations to come.

He has brought joy to millions of kids, and that’s my goal with our petting zoo business.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: If you can’t teach it to someone else, you don’t really understand it yourself.

Q: What technology innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Indoor plumbing.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My father. I would not be the man I am today without all of his hard work and his values and lessons guiding me.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: History.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Every person should know how to actively listen. It’s important to not just hear, but to understand.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

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A: Patagonia.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Most of my friends call me “Old Man Compston”.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The early Old Testament times, to see the Anakites.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Charlie Munger.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I am a huge fan of classical music and Puerto Rican rap.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Visit Antarctica.

Exotic Petting Zoo 740-547-7150

FARM

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35 UNDER 35

THE TRIBUNE

Kimmi Compston

sarah burton smith

Title: Co-Owner/Office Administrator Business: Compston Wealth Management City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 29 Family: Married to Casey Compston for 6 years, 2 dogs, 8 cats, 4 nieces, and 3 nephews

Title: Certified Pedorthist Business: Unger’s Shoe Store City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 34 Family: Husband Jon and three littles, Jack (7), Jake (4), and Lana (15 months)

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: In all things, be kind.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Cell phone Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My grandparents. They taught me to love unconditionally.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school? A: History Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to smile Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Anywhere, as long as it is with those I love.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

A: Community minded. Determined.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I wouldn’t. Live for now!

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Oprah! Who wouldn’t want the talk show queen on their talk show!

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I am shy in unfamiliar situations.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Drive the Corvette around the Corvette Museum racetrack.

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: Silence. Everyone knows how much Joe Unger likes to talk!

Stop in and check out Sarah’s new Fall favorites!!

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Dr. Dan Bentley, it isn’t a piece of advice he SAID, but it’s something he TAUGHT, with intent. I worked at Bentley’s Pharmacy when I was 19 and he taught me to have a good work ethic. That no matter your job title, you do what needs to be done to make the business run smoothly.

You aren’t above doing any task.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Spell check, hands down.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: For years I have admired and looked up to Debbie Dickens and Lou Pyles. They are both such strong and inspiring women in our community.

Debbie has worked in a maledominated field her whole career and doesn’t blink an eye at it, she’s tough as nails and makes me proud to be

woman and gives me courage and confidence in business. Lou inspires me because she’s SO INVOLVED in our community; she’s heavily involved in the parade committee and Lions Club and countless other groups and events. I’m inspired by her dedication and moral code that she lives by.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: To be an active listener.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Always late and compassionate, I wear my heart on my sleeve.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I don’t have a college degree.

I also get very nervous before I do anything.

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WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Carly Carver

Shelby davidson

Title: Director Business: Buddy’s Sensory Exchange City: Ashland, Kentucky | Age: 25 Family: Son, Logan Carver and daughter, Allison Carver

Title: Administrative Specialist Business: Tri-State STEM+M Early College High School City: South Point, Ohio | Age: 24 Family: Married to Eric Davidson

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: To always do your best, but to remember your best won’t be the same day-to-day. Your best today might vary from your best tomorrow.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: GPS tracking. Fourty-nine percent of those with autism have wandering tendencies, and the ability to place a tracking device in a watch, backpack or belt loop helps special needs parents with a sense of security, should the worst happen.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: In all honesty, my children. My daughter braves every situation and is such as natural-born leader with this beautiful passion for life and people. She’s known to be the child in class that helps others, particularly those with special

needs. My son has autism, and this special way of viewing the world.

He was diagnosed as nonverbal, and is now speaking in full sentences.

He’s the inspiration behind our mascot, Buddy the Autism Shark.

Buddy was the first word he spoke, and he’s in love with all things shark.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Writing. I greatly appreciate opportunities to study literature, interpret writer’s thoughts, and read.

I will always take an opportunity to sit down and read.

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: “We’ve found a way to finish funding the Sensory Garden.”

Central Park Sensory Garden Bronze $500 Silver $1,000 Gold $1,500

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Sponsors are recognized in Central Park Sensory Garden with design opportunity and name only on a 42”x48” stone on walking path (8 opportunities) Bronze Benefit included.

Sponsors recognized with name on plaque of main entrance of Central Park Sensory Garden. Sponsors invited to partake in ribbon cu ing ceremony. Bronze Benefit included

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Two bits of advice I carry with me on a daily basis. They are: Hard work will always pay off. Life isn’t fair.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: I would have to say social media.

I have grown up during the boom of social media. I have personally seen the positive impact it can have on a single person, as well as a whole community. It has become a key business tool in today’s world.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: This may be a generic answer, but my mother is my hero. She is the complete profile of a strong woman. She is determined, dedicated, selfless, compassionate, and optimistic. I strive every day to be more like her.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: My favorite subject in school was English. From a young age, I have been a passionate reader with an inquisitive mind.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Communication is the most important skill a person should have.

First impressions do matter, and so does how you speak to people. In order to be a team player, you must have effective communication skills.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

THE TRIBUNE

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A: I love to travel, and my dream vacation is to go on a cross country road trip to the west coast. I would love to hike in each of the western National Parks.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Loyal. My best friends would say that I always have their back no matter the situation. One of the perks of being a redhead is the fiesty temper that comes with it!

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would visit the 1970s era. This may seem silly to some, but I have a true passion for country music.

The 1970s was my favorite era of country music. To get to see Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton in concert during their prime would be a dream come true.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: If I hosted a local talk show, my first guest would be Dr. Bill Dingus.

He has a long standing commitment to our county. He pursues growth opportunities, in career and education, and has a prominent vision for Lawrence County.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Maddie cogan

Stephen fairchild

Business: South Point Storage City: South Point, Ohio | Age: 21 Family: Carlton, Mary, Jake, and Shelby Cogan

Title: Software Engineer at Research Square City: South Point, Ohio | Age: 28 Family: Wife and 2 kids, ages 9 and 4

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My parents. They are hard workers, day in and day out. They are a helping hand to anyone who needs it. The hospitality they show to others around them is astounding.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Loyal and energetic.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would visit the past to give my grandparents updates on everything!

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Probably Jimmy Fallon.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: A lot of my friends know that I can ride a unicycle, but most people don’t know that I can also juggle while riding a unicycle.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Swim with the pigs at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay in the Bahamas.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: Dreamland by Sam Quinones.

I actually listened to it on Audible instead of reading it (I cheated), but I enjoyed it because it gave a lot of insight to the nation’s and the TriState’s opiate epidemic. It was a tough read, but it had a lot of great information.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what it would be?

A: My glasses. I don’t function well without my glasses. I really need them to see, so they would be a necessity for getting around.

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: “We can have a dog at the office.”

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: They can’t eat you – ha-ha. My dad used to tell me this years ago when I was in sales, and I’ve also had business mentors tell me the same as I’ve prepared for an important meeting or interview.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Amazon Web Services and the original concept of “cloud” technology.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Sales, hands down. It’s imperative to be able to sell yourself, sell an idea, sell a product, persuade and convince and more. Early telemarketing and door to door sales in my career has led to so many open doors.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Well, I’m a nerd at heart, so I’d love to bring on some really obscure tech or programming genius. But to

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• U-Haul trucks and trailers • Boxes and moving supplies • Storage units • House and apartment rentals

keep it simple, maybe an artist, since more people reading this could relate to that? How about Neil Young.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I haven’t had a phone in over a year (maybe two?) It’s a personal choice and I love being able to disconnect. I’ll most likely never have one again. I work remote, and my team has ways to get a hold of me in which I check in a few times a week. I can always dial out, if needed, by using Skype from a computer, but the key thing is social media is not a strong factor in my life. I log in from the computer every now and then to touch base with my friends who have moved off, but I like living in the moment.

602 Solida Road South Point, Ohio mysouthpointstorage.com

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Rachael Fraley

Todd frazer

Title: Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development Business: OSU Extension, Lawrence County City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 31 Family: Husband, Andrew Fraley, and daughter, Leighton Fraley, age 5

Title: Artist, Officer, Dad Business: Scribbles & Splotches City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 35

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Just breathe and focus on your “big rocks” each day!

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Smart phone — making connectivity to family, friends and work easy.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My mom. Her strength, courage, faith and love for her family is something I strive towards each day.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Math.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Honest communication Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Hawaii Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: According to my best friend, I am “vivacious!”

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I’m happy in the here and now!

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: My daughter Leighton! She’s full of entertainment with her songs,

dances, jokes and stories!

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: Working with cattle is my best stress reliever.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Exhibit cattle across the country at national expos.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: The Woman In Cabin 10 for its suspense and mystery.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what it would be?

A: A lighter, so I can eat and stay warm!

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: “I have an idea...”

Q: If you could have a dinner with someone who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?

A: My grandparents, AJ and Pearl Payne, I would love to have a chance to chat and get to know them!

Q: What is your “at bat” or favorite song?

A: ”Humble and Kind,” by Tim McGraw.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice that a mentor has given you?

A: To practice what you would want to see in the world. Stay always resilient and consistent, never give up, no matter how hard sometimes as it may seem. Don’t, I repeat, do not compare yourselves to others.

You are very unique and what you do here is just as valuable. Believe in yourself.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Digital art, that has slowly found its way into my own mix of traditional artwork, has shown new ways to make interesting new leaps for me and my portfolio. I believe social media would be a key factor because, honestly, it would be hard to share what I do at my desk alone with the world. It has opened so many doors all around for me to keep trying new interesting ways to if anything inspire.

Q: Who is your hero and why?

A: I have many heroes. The list would be the size of an encyclopedia.

To not single out just one act or just one person I look up to, what I find is inspiration and heroes are everywhere, if you look around. It’s easy for me to plug into and am grateful for that. To recall, if I had to announce one, I would say my Mom, she believed in me always and I believe she still looks over me.

Q: What is one important skill everyone should have?

A: Accountability, this drives us to

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get what we need done, even when no one is watching.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Paris, France - Montmartre district (artist square) Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: (I asked) “Compassionate, honest reliable inspirational strong trustworthy (C.H.R.I.S.T.)” - Matt Byrd. Others may say “crazy, loyal, driven, humble, artistic, and talented.” - Lizzy, Lindsey, Rachael and Valerie.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Ah, time, one of my favorite subjects to talk about. For me, I would, if anything, like to stay in the present. Yet, if our present is the future of so many choices that could bend or mold you, would you visit? Absolutely, just to see what can transpire. All the while, that may, just then, affect choices of your right here and now. We have a special power, I believe, to announce our goals, write them out and create plans for our future that we can truly make a reality.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Katie hacker

Charlie haskins

Title: Elementary Intervention Specialist Business: South Point Elementary City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 25 Family: Jim and Joni Hacker

Title: Artist Business: Haskins House City: Portsmouth, Ohio | Age: 33 Family: Wife and two children

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: My dad has always told me, “If anyone ever asks you what you would bring to a deserted island, say ‘a boat.’”

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Katie Schwab; When I was younger, I really looked up to her. It made me realize you’re setting an example for someone else. She was the sweetest, most charismatic, hardest worker I have ever had the pleasure to meet. I pray for her often. Now, she is raising awareness for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Keep fighting, Katie! #TeamKatie Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: I had a tough time throughout elementary school. I struggled with reading, which made all other subjects harder. That’s why I wanted to be a special education teacher; to help kids like me. When I went to high school, I had a fantastic math teacher, Mrs. Hopkins, who not only taught math but, organizational and time management skills as well. I’m forever grateful for that.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: It would definitely be abroad; anywhere with a beach.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Energetic, outgoing, passionate.

Q: If you had a time machine,

what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would like to go 30 years in the future. Just to check in and see if everything’s good, maybe buy a sports almanac.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest? A: Ellen Degeneres.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I played rugby at Marshall.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: I’d like to finish a triathlon.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: “The Help,” by Kathryn Stockett.

The moral of the story is that all people deserve to be treated with kindness. It’s a message that is still relevant today.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what it would be?

A: A boat!

Q: If you could have dinner with someone who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?

A: My Nana passed away when I was young. I think she’d really get a kick out of meeting me now.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: “Keep trying. Numerically speaking, you’ll be bound to succeed, and someone will eventually take note of what you are doing, if you try hard and long enough.” - Lane Raiser Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: I think I’d have to say my dad’s record player and mainly his collection of Beatles and Dylan albums. The imagery those artists created with their lyrics really encouraged me to draw what I was seeing with my mind’s eye.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: One person I’ve modeled myself after would be Van Gogh.

I believe that if you look at his life and artwork, he can teach you everything you need to know about being an artist. Harpo Marx would be another hero, as I delight in watching Marx Brothers movies and would love to bring joy to someone the way their work has done for me.

Plus, are there any Estel Parker fans out there?!

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Art, because I kind of got to do whatever I wanted to in that class, including making an over life-size portrait of Salvador Dali metamorphosing into a jigsaw puzzle. I went to South Webster and my art teacher, whose name was actually Mr. Painter, knew a lot

about different types of media and he let me experiment a lot in class.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: This one took me a minute. I think people should be less afraid of public speaking. Generally, I’m pretty quiet, but it helps to get things done when you are able to tell people what you want.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: I’m not too picky. Right now, I’m getting to re-experience a lot of the world through my kids’ eyes. I think we are going to eventually have to end up at Disney though!

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: A close friend recently called me a ghost. I think they meant it as a compliment, because ghosts frequently end up in my paintings, but maybe it was a reference to my sense of humor — which is pretty deadpan... “ghost”...”deadpan”... get it? That’s a joke!

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I’d like to visit the Renaissance, but I wouldn’t want to live there.

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Cody hatten

JT HOLT

Title: Director of Lawrence County Convention & Visitors Bureau Business: Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce City: South Point, Ohio | Age: 24

Title: Attorney (Holt Law Office)/ STAR Community Justice Center Fiscal Director/Lawrence County Board of Elections Board Member/ Proctorville Village Solicitor/Ironton Municipal Court Law Clerk City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 33

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Just do what you know is right, even if it’s not the popular opinion.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: The Nintendo 64. It brought so much joy to my life as a kid, and it still does today!

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My dad, since he taught me everything I know and made me who I am today.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: English Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Knowing how to change a flat tire… Trust me, it helps to know.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Egypt.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Probably as that one guy who talks too much about Star Wars.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would go back to 1977, so I could see the original Star Wars in theaters!

Q: If you could host a talk

show, who would be your first guest?

A: Noah Wyle from ER. Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I can play the saxophone and the clarinet.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: To go scuba diving.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: I don’t do much reading, but I listen to a lot of “TED Talks”. Does that count?

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be?

A: My cellphone, so I could call the nearest port to come pick me up.

Q: If you could have dinner with someone who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?

A: Dinner with Mark Hamill. Who doesn’t want to have dinner with Luke Skywalker?!

Q: What is your “at bat” or favorite song?

A: “Black” by Kari Kimmel

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: We are all equal. Every individual deserves your respect and an opportunity to succeed.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: As people who know me would say, cell phones. Unfortunately, I am on mine too much.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: I guess I will take the liberty to stretch multiple answers. Personally, Kevin Waldo is my hero, because of the kindness he has shown to me throughout my life, for no other reason than being a person who cared and mentored me in my profession. I have to say that Jimmy Carter is also a hero of mine, not for becoming president, but for the example he set in his personal life by dedicating his time on Earth to being the best individual he could possibly be in tirelessly working to better the lives of people he never met, and doing so with integrity and kindness every step of the way.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school? A: History.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to empathize with others. Recognizing that every person has a very different set of life experiences that shaped that person provides the humility and

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understanding each of us needs to grow.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: The South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, etc.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Passionate. Honest. Inquisitive.

Well spoken, but sometimes speaking too much.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Past, I would go back to the time of our Founding Fathers and the birth of our country, but I would like to see how far society has progressed 500 years in the future.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Shawn Holliday, because everyone should have the pleasure of hearing Shawn’s brand of humorous takes on the world.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: To even my own surprise, I have been told on several occasions that I am a very good dancer.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Meranda hayes

Austin Johnson

Title: Co-Owner Business: Coal Grove Freezette City: Coal Grove, Ohio | Age: 20 Family: Freddie Hayes, Leah Blake, Kayla Hayes

Title: South Point High School Student and Activist City: South Point, Ohio | Age: 17 Family: Johnson and Fletcher family

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: The Golden Rule: Do to others as you would have them do to you.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My mom, she’s the most hardworking and strong woman I know.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Communication Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Africa Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: I’m always down to do something fun and spontaneous.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Childhood Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Tyler Childers

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I live with seven dogs Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Skydiving Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: Gone Girl, it was suspenseful with a unpredictable ending.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be?

A: My Great Dane, Piper Q: What is your “at bat” or favorite song?

A: “If It Makes You Happy” — Sheryl Crow

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: The greatest advice a mentor has given me is, if you are willing to accept the consequences, by all means take your flag and march. In others words, I have learned you have to accept the consequences before you make the decision. -- South Point High School, Steve Baise Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My hero would be Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., because he made it possible for all the things I’m doing and about to be doing as a black male. I will never forget the sacrifices he made to get me where I stand today.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: My favorite subject in school is government. It’s civics education.

It shows you the powers you have as a U.S citizen and the powers of the people we elect. Government is an important requirement and an awesome class.

Q: What is one important skill

every person should have?

A: One important skill everybody should have is communication.

Without communication, there is nothing. Communication is the number one thing in relationships, friendships work, school and even interacting with people.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: I would probably go back to New York to see its bright lights.

Something about New York brings joy to my soul.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: To run for political office and be a great leader.

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Caitlin knore

Kasie

Title: Art Teacher Business: Ironton High School City: Wheelersburg, Ohio Age: 28

Title: Adjunct Faculty, Dept. of English and Humanities Program Assistant, Upward Bound Math and Science Business: Shawnee State University City: Portsmouth, Ohio Age: 30 Family: Husband, Cody Leightenheimer, daughters Lily VanKirk, 11, and Hattie Leightenheimer, 2

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: The best advice a mentor ever gave me was to do the projects with my students. If they see me willing to do the work and go through the struggles, they too are willing to give it all they’ve got.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Honesty, I don’t know. I’m not the biggest tech person around. I guess something that has helped me a lot in my classroom is being able to easily photograph and upload my students’ artwork with my phone.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: This is hard. If I could only choose one person, I would have to say my Grandpa Knore. He was such a hard worker, passionate about what he did, flew airplanes until his early 80s and showed me what it meant to be to not let anything get in your way.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Well, obviously, my favorite subject was art. My last year of school, you could find me in that room most of the day.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The passion to be a forever learner.

If you are not willing to always learn, you can never truly grow.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

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Leightenheimer

A: Well, amazingly enough, I had an opportunity to go to my dream place of Italy this summer. The art and beauty of the country is breathtaking. I wish I could go back, especially Florence.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: I think my friends would say I’m a kind-hearted hard worker. At least I think so. LOL Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I think I would go back to the late 1800s during the times of Monet and Degas, right when we really saw artists begin to question what is art and how they could change people’s views on it.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: I don’t know, because even jokingly talking about hosting a talk show makes me nervous. I don’t think I could ever handle that many people watching me.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I guess I would be that I first went to college to be an American Sign Language interpreter and not a teacher, though I wouldn’t change what I am doing now for anything.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Do the things that scare you, and everything else will be simple.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Blackboard has made it easy for me to discuss and share ideas and grades with students in a quick and communicative manner, making it an invaluable tool in my teaching process. Our research databases available through SSU’s library have also changed the game, as far as how I generate my own scholarship and expand my understanding of my field.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Fred Rogers, because he reminds me every day to practice a pedagogy that is rooted in love, respect, dignity and diversity.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to use rhetorical listening in order to find common ground with one another, no matter how much you may seemingly disagree with them.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Lisbon, Portugal Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: I wasn’t sure, so I asked a few friends, and these are some of the most common adjectives they generously shared: Fearless, intelligent, driven, empathetic and ambitious.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I hesitate to visit the past, because of the modes of systemic oppression which have faced women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of color in our bygone ages, and visiting the distant future, to me, would run the risk of entering into an Orwellian hellscape. I would politely decline the time machine invitation and instead focus on shaping the future by influencing the present.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Elizabeth Catte Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I struggle with crippling anxiety, depression and self-doubt, and must work continuously to care for myself so that I can be my best self for others.

12

THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Ben Mack, md

dylan markins

Title: Lawrence County Coroner, LCEMS Medical Director, St. Mary’s ER Physician Age: 35 Family: Wife, Amanda; Jocelyn, 7, Catherine, 5, Gavin, 2, Owen, 6 months

Title: Fiscal Specialist Business: Lawrence County Developmental Disabilities City: Coal Grove, Ohio Age: 26

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: “There are no secrets to success.

It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.”

--Colin Powell Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: The Internet and electronic medical record.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My hero is definitely my dad.

He is a continuous giver of himself.

He expanded a successful family business, raised four successful kids in which he instilled great morals and work ethic, all the while serving countless hours with the church, as a township official, volunteer EMT, and countless other community activities.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The Heimlich maneuver and CPR Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Visit all seven wonders of the world.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Energetic and spontaneous Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would visit the future second coming of Jesus

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky. People say we look alike.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I can speak a fair amount of conversational Haitian Creole, which I have picked up from my annual medical mission trips to Haiti.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Visit all of the seven modern wonders of the world.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: I’m currently studying the gospel of Luke, I find it personally an interesting perspective and description, as documented by a fellow physician.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be?

A: My first aid kit/EMS bag – I literally have everything in there I could possibly need.

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: Congratulations, we are sending you on a year-long, paid sabbatical.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: My first job was as a library assistant while getting my undergraduate degree. The library director once told me that, in life, mistakes are bound to be made; they’re expected, even. Every mistake is a learning oppurtunity!

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: I try not to idolize others, so I’m not sure I have any heroes. I feel like you have to make your own way in life; if you focus too much on others, then you can’t devote enough time to bettering yourself!

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Is choir a subject? Regardless, that’s the class I enjoyed the most – love ya, Mrs. Price!

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Changing a tire – this has come in handy more than once!

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: The Maldives or Alaska. Actually, both.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: My friends have the best sense of humor, I feel like we spend most of our time together laughing! I would like to think they would say I’m comical/witty – but that might just be wishful thinking.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or

future would you visit?

A: New York City in the 1920s.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: My grandmas, they’re two of my favorite people!

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I try not to give out too many personal details; I want people to be surprised when I publish my autobiography.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Winning the lottery – anonymously.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: I honestly don’t read that much but I love listening to podcasts; I just finished one called Crimetown – its about political corruption in Providence, Rhode Island during the 1960s-2000s. It’s definitely worth a listen!

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: You can never underestimate small compliments like, “Good work today”, “Thanks for your help” or “We are doubling your salary.” I’m pretty easy to please!

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Will

Dustin melchior

Title: Writer/Journalist Business: Sports Illustrated/ Freelance Writer City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 25 Family: Bob McCollister- father, Faye McCollister- mother, Allison Royal and Melissa McCollistersisters

Title: Reporter Business: The Tribune City: Huntington, West Virginia Age: 26 Family: Engaged to Emilee Price, 3 cats

mccollister

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: During my sophomore year of high school, my father gave me a quote from Theodore Roosevelt about “the man in the arena.” It is lengthy, so I won’t put it all down, but it essentially says that critics will always be there and they will always point out when you fall, but it is your job to stay strong in the face of criticism and that the most impressive people are the ones that are willing to take risks even though they may fail.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: I have two. Both of my parents.

My father is the hardest worker I have ever met and has instilled the values of discipline and determination in me from a young age. He has been an excellent example of a father and husband and is the definition of a good man. My mother is the epitome of class, and taught me how to be compassionate, empathetic and loving. Like any young man, I have a soft spot for my mom, and I can only hope to be as good a person as she is.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Coding is a practical skill that is extremely useful in the digital age, but being able to run on no sleep with five cups of coffee in your system might be equally as useful.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Athens, Greece. It’s the birthplace of democracy, the site of the first olympics, and, essentially, where western civilization was born.

On top of that, the beaches are absolutely beautiful.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Definitely the American Revolution. I would be surrounded by some of the brightest minds in American history, like Washington, Jefferson, Hamilton and Adams.

The only problem with that is there wouldn’t be any air conditioning.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: I’d probably go with Chris Pratt, because I’m a huge Parks and Rec fan, and I’d love to hear stories from behind the scenes of that show.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: See a game at Lambeau Field.

Think of all the greats that played there, from Hornung to Favre to Rodgers, and not to mention Lombardi. It’s the mecca of football, and I need to see a game there before I die.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Be true to yourself, and don’t forget the things that have gotten you where you are.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Computers and cell phones. I use these things every single day.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: LeBron James. Being from Cleveland, he brought the city its first championship in 52 years in 2016, changing the city’s sports landscape, as well as the economy. He also opened a public school in Akron this year, and knows that life is bigger than sports.

Although he left for LA this offseason, I’ll always remain a fan.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: English. It was always my best subject.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to listen to other people and try to understand different view points from your own.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Funny, easygoing and laid back Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The Super Bowl the Cleveland Browns are in.

Q: Share a personal fact no one

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would ever guess about you.

A: I hate mice, rats and any other little crawly animals besides spiders.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Jimmy Fallon. He’s funny and I’d like to reverse roles.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Being able to go to a Super Bowl Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: Dreamland by Sam Quinones. It was fascinating to learn about how the drug/opioid epidemic began in our region.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be?

A: A jet ski. At least I could try to have some fun right?

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: Here’s that raise you deserve!

Q: If you could have dinner with someone who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?

A: Alligator Jackson! I’d like to hear more about what makes him do what he does.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Brittany miller

David Miller

Title: Funeral Director/Embalmer Business: Beard Mortuary City: Huntington, West Virginia Age: 33

Title: Community Relations Specialist Business: King’s Daughters Medical Center City: Ashland, Kentucky Age: 30 Family: 1 dog, Bridget

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: A mentor I had as a funeral intern once told me what he believes sets apart a “good” funeral director from a “great” one is thoughtfulness.

Being thoughtful requires attention to detail, but also an innate sense of which actions and words will be comforting to different individuals during their grief.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My hero is someone who will never see this article, but she worked with me in Pennsylvania when I was right out of mortuary school and working as an intern.

She helped me learn valuable lessons through tough love (which I hated at the time) and taught me how to be self-reliant in a field that is primarily dominated by men.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: My favorite subject in school is a toss-up between embalming and pathology, but I think I enjoyed pathology the most.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Without a doubt, the most important skill every person should have is communication. Maybe even more specifically is the ability to listen.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: I have always wanted to visit Italy or Japan!

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Caring, kind-hearted, empathetic, compassionate, feisty, intense, trusting, old soul, intuitive, animal lover, foodie.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would most likely go back in time and visit my early 20s self and give myself some much-needed advice. I would tell myself not to take everything so seriously and to focus on the bigger picture of life.

To do my best in college, get closer to my parents and grandparents, visit friends and family more, tell people you love and appreciate them, stop procrastinating and to smile and laugh more often.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: I would like to interview Josh Slocum and have a back and forth with him about his ideas on home funerals and green burials.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: Even though I talk to strangers sometimes on a daily and weekly basis and work in front of crowds, I am absolutely terrified of public speaking and being in the spotlight.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Don’t wait around for other people to make the changes or improvements you believe need to happen around you. It has to start somewhere; it can start with you.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Smartphones have enabled me to keep in contact with friends that live multiple time zones away as if they’re right across town. I’ve travelled to new places in the U.S. and abroad with a smartphone as my main guide and even used it to navigate on backpacking trips. I don’t know that I’ve allowed myself to rely on something more heavily than I do a smartphone.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

Rob Bell is an author, speaker and former pastor. His body of work has consistently challenged me to improve how I think about myself, others, and the world around me.

I cannot recommend his books enough, as well as his podcast- The RobCast.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: High school chemistry (shout out to Mrs. Davis); College documentary filmmaking Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to listen to someone

in order to understand their perspective, not just to respond.

That, and to be able to cook a decent breakfast.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Hiking in New Zealand.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: “David is loyal, trustworthy, and the most handsome person in our friend group.”- David’s friends…probably.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Without hesitation, I would go back far enough to see dinosaurs.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Groucho Marx Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I have a modest coin collection that I never really talk about.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef.

Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

A: “We’re adopting an office-dog and you get to pick it out.”

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Torrie Miller

Jessica norris

Title: Children’s Programming Coordinator Business: Briggs Library City: Patriot, Ohio Age: 27

Title: Attorney Business: Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy City: Catlettsburg, Kentucky Age: 30 Family: Sofia, 4, and Ethan, 2

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Learn something new every day.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: The iPhone. I can work from anywhere.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My mother, who is the most giving, resilient and loving person I know. She has been an excellent source of strength and support my entire life, and is the epitome of personal growth and evolution.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: History.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Self-awareness.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: All over southern Asia.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

Q: What is the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: To learn from other people’s mistakes and successes. In my profession, you can teach yourself a great deal simply by observing other attorneys. You can see what works and what does not in front of a particular judge, other counsel and clients. Even when someone does well, you may notice things that would make the practice better.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Our digital calendar for our office is such a necessity. We cover five counties out of our office and often cover for each other, so it makes remembering where to be and when much easier.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My mother. She has dedicated her life to serving her community through her career choice to her volunteerism. It is inspiring.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: History Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: The ability to listen. Most people just want their opportunity to be heard and respect you more for giving them that opportunity.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: I tend to gravitate toward a beach and prefer to be with my family.

A: Excitable and probably a little too caring.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I’d like to go forward a thousand years and see where we as humanity are in the grand scheme of things.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I’m actually quiet sometimes.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Shark diving.

Educate and entertain your brain at the

BRIGGS LAWRENCE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY IRONTON 321 S. FOURTH ST., IRONTON, 532-1124 SOUTH POINT 317 SOLIDA RD., SOUTH POINT, 377-2288 SYMMES VALLEY 14860 ST. RT. 141, WILLOW WOOD, 643-2086 CHESAPEAKE 11054 COUNTY RD. 1, CHESAPEAKE, 867-3390 PROCTORVILLE 410 ELIZABETH ST., PROCTORVILLE, 886-6697

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Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Dependable and loving, but goofy at times. I tend to face challenges head on.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I currently live on a part of what used to be our family farm. I have always wondered what it looked like when it was fully functioning. Given the option, I would go back in time to see it.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She is simply brilliant.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: Probably that I am very spiritual.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Continued travel. There are so many places I still want to visit.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: I finished Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology a couple of weeks ago.

I enjoyed his rendition of the myths into a single streamlined story. It made for an enjoyable read.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Michael payne

Rob Pemberton

Title: Co-Owner of the River City Buccaneers semi-pro football team Business: River City Buccaneers and Brown Landscape Management City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 28 Family: Wife, Melinda, and two girls, Hannah and Leah

Title: Co-Founder/Manager Business: Positive Productions City: Ashland, Kentucky Age: 25

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: A cell phone. I can get any information I need within seconds.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My father, Mike Payne. He always challenged me to be the best I could be and wasn’t afraid to tell me when I needed to do better. Both of my parents always had my back and never gave up on me. I appreciate it more than they will ever know.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: A work ethic Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Rome, to see the architecture and culture.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: A family man and fun.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: Back to 1990, so I could see how things were on the year I was born and watch a good Reds team LOL Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: J.J. Watt of the Houston Texans

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I’m terrified of snakes.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Nine-day walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: “How To Win friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. The book truly changed how I view things. It helped me show me how to handle certain situations and to listen 75 percent of the time and to talk 25 percent of the time. Listen first and be honest.

Q: If you could only take one physical item with you on a deserted island, what would it be?

A: A knife Q: What’s one sentence you’d like to hear from your boss?

(A: I hear this a lot and it means a lot) “I appreciate you” Q: If you could have dinner with someone who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?

A: My grandmother, who passed away a few years back, so I could get to tell her one more time how much I love her.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: My dad used to tell me: “Don’t worry about what video games you’re going to play, or what friend you will waste time with after school, or after practice. Focus on what you are doing right now. Get your work done, play comes after.” That’s the best piece of advice I’ve ever been given.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: I would have to say my grandparents are my heroes. My grandparents represent a generation who value loyalty, commitment and work ethic. My grandparents came from an era where you didn’t throw something away, you fixed it. You provide for your family. You put time into your community, because you can.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: Well, I would have to say math was my best subject, but my favorite subject in school wasn’t a conventional subject. My favorite part of school was the time in between classes where the social interaction happened. You get to speak with each other. Sure, kids got in trouble and detentions were given, but many students learned a little about who they were before entering the world, what they liked and disliked and what they stood for and what they didn’t, if they stand at all.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Understanding. To be able to relate to someone else while genuinely listening, and being

interested in what they are saying, or being patient enough to stay level headed in a stressful situation.

Q: If you could go anyhere in the world on vacation, here would you go?

A: It would be Hawaii or California.

Only a few people in my family have seen the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, so that is a must for me. I would have to place Hawaii on the top of my list, just because I need to see how clear that water is for myself!

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: I would travel to the past, but not far. I would go back to maybe the late 80s or early 90s. I wasn’t consciously aware of what things were going on at the time. That era is nostalgic to me. I would like to go back and just soak up what the U.S. was like pre-9/11, pre-Great Recession. Back to an era where the Internet wasn’t as prevalent, and was still in it’s infancy.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: To buy my mom a house. I’d love to be able to hand my mom the keys to her dream home and tell her, “It’s paid for.”

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Christine Sammons

Sarah Simmons

Title: Owner/Stylist Business: Meraki Studio City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 34 Family: Married to Seth Sammons; two sons, Zayne Williams and Demir Curtis

Title: Community Outreach Leader Business: The Tribune City: Ironton, Ohio Age: 31 Family: Proud mother of vivacious, authentic, discerning, hilarious 6-year-old Olive. Happily divorced.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Both of my parents. They are everything I aspire to be.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: I always enjoyed science, because it was the most hands-on.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: People skills! No matter what profession you pursue, if you can’t successfully interact with people, it’s going to be tough for you.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: My husband and I have always talked about going to Europe, especially Italy.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: I hope they would describe me as someone they can trust and someone who looks out for them.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or

future would you visit?

A: I would probably want to sneak a peek into the future to see my boys when they are grown!

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: There are so many people in the world doing amazing and wonderful things for others that never get any attention. There is so much attention paid to all the negative in the world, I’d probably try to find people who are doing positive in their communities and shine a spotlight on them.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: This probably defies the stereotypes of a stylist, but I’m a HUGE football fan! My favorite time of year are Saturdays in the fall.

303 Park Ave Ironton, Ohio

740-534-2447

Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Offering all hair services, waxing, and microblading

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Electronic communication. Video conferencing, email and social media networks can eliminate space between ourselves and our contacts, and that’s great, as long as we don’t let it create space between ourselves and the people in our physical communities.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Brandon Dennison with Coalfield Development Corporation. He is changing West Virginia in tangible ways through his innovative social enterprise and helping to create a fair, sustainable economy through mentorship, education and employment.

Q: What was your favorite

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subject in school?

A: Art and earth sciences - both were messy.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Empathy.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: An empty beach in old-fashioned Vermillion, Ohio.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Hopefully kind and helpful.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: The 1930s, so I could try to hang out with Nannie Kelley Wright and Jean Bell Thomas.

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THE TRIBUNE

35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

Johnathan cody sloas

Kyle sniatecki

Business: The Goblin Traders, assistant varsity football coach at Green High School, student aid at Wheelersburg High School.

City: Ironton, Ohio | Age: 28 Family: Married to my wonderful wife, Heather, with two incredible children – Ricky, 7, and Delilah, 2.

Title: Director of Sales and Marketing Business: My Town TV City: Ashland, Kentucky Age: 28 Family: David (dad) and Gayle (mom) reside in Buffalo, New York and Keith (brother), who resides in Long Island City, New York City

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: My pastor, Matthew Mayhew, tells me to seek answers in prayer.

Q: What technology innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Internet is the most impactful technological innovation and necessity so far for me.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: My dad. He was heavyweight champ of the Cloverleaf. All jokes aside, dad worked non-stop to provide for our family between AK and the farm. Even going through chemotherapy, dad would pick bales of hay up and toss them 12-14 feet in the air like nothing.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: High school, it would have to be math. Mrs. McIlhenny made that learning environment fun. My favorite subject in college was a toss up between chemistry and history. Dr. Culp made chemistry cool. Dr. Marinski always kept historical discussions open. Both of them directly impacted my career as a student, and the way I operate as an educator, in a positive way.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Adaptability Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: My son said in 2020 we should go to Saudi Arabia to see the Jeddah Tower, so maybe there.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: I hope they would say nice things about me.

Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: April 13, 2008. I would visit my dad and tell him how awesome my kids are.

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: For entertainment, probably Pat McAfee. If it is an educational talk show, then I would enjoy the opportunity to talk to Coach Steve Hansen of the New Zealand All Blacks.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I hate tomatoes.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: Become a varsity head football coach Q: What is a recent book that you have enjoyed? Why? A: Team of Teams. Team building is important in coaching and in business and I love reading information that helps me become a better coach and business owner.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: “If you’re doing something that doesn’t make you happy, stop doing it.” I have heard this phrase or statements similar to this from my business partner, Steven Lycans, for the past four years. It is a simple concept and one that most of us have probably heard, but I have made it an everyday practice for me. Since doing it, I make sure that my career, relationships, places I go, people I hang around make me happy. If they don’t then I stop doing it.

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Was my grandpa, Tom Wojnar.

Unfortunately, he passed away when I was in college, but that man was one of the greatest people I have ever been around. He could communicate with everyone, loved a good time, loved the people around him like no one I have ever seen and, most importantly, was always there for you. He was like a second dad to me growing up and I appreciate the life lessons he taught me and the example he set forth.

I hope one day I can be the dad/ grandpa he was to his family.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?

A: Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I was inspired by Phil Knight

and his book “Shoe Dog” and the story he told about when he was starting Nike and his travels he took around the world, specifically his trek up Mt. Fuji. It was an intriguing tale and one that I want to experience myself.

Q: How would your friends describe you?

A: Passionate, hard-working, extremely competitive/intense, caring, curious Q: If you had a time machine, what point in the past or future would you visit?

A: If I knew the future, there would be nothing to look forward too. So I would choose to go back in time to when I was a teenager. Probably when I was 15-17 years old. Would love to re-live those moments when I was on the soccer field overseas representing the U.S. in the Olympic Development Program. In the moment you enjoy it, but looking back on it now I can appreciate it so much more. Would love to be in that moment one more time.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I couldn’t talk until I was four years old.

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

35 UNDER 35

Lauren tussey

Jenna Yoakem

Title: Full-Time Finacial Planner and Part-Time Competitive Strong Woman Business: Transamerica Agency Network, Pikeville City: Catlettsburg, Kentucky Age: 27 Family: Tom and Laura Tussey, Parents

Title: Collections Manager and Performing Arts Coordinator Business: Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center City: Wheelersburg, Ohio | Age: 32 Family: Husband, Jacob Thompson, sons, Killian and Adrian

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: Strongwoman Leigh HollandKeen, who recently made news as the first woman to ever successfully lift the 732-pound Dinnie Stones of Scotland. The training and dedication that it took her to achieve this feat is just incredible. She is a wonderful model of strength and tenacity.

Whenever I don’t feel like hitting the gym, I think about Holland-Keen’s amazing accomplishment and push myself harder.

Q: What was your favorite subject in school?

A: My favorite subject throughout undergrad and graduate school would have to be English, as that was my major all through college.

I have always been really drawn to the freedom that the English language and writing has afforded me. Writing has been one of my

favorite escapes for most of my life.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: Creating a budget is a skill that everyone needs to have. In general, financial preparedness is crucial for young and old folks, alike.

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I grew up on a goat farm for the first 20 years of my life -- I like to say that this is where I got my start with lifting heavy things, as it was a normal chore for me to carry 50 pound sacks of feed 800 feet to the barn.

Q: What is one of the things on your bucket list?

A: I would love to compete on the national stage for either Strongwoman or Powerlifting.

Q: What’s the greatest bit of advice a mentor has given you?

A: Challenge by Choice: We’ve all been invited to meetings or events that don’t feel like a natural fit, but there is always value in coming together and trying to collaborate.

Each of us gets to decide what value we bring to the table, and what value the table brings to us.

Q: What technological innovation made the most impact on your life?

A: Filtered water and indoor plumbing? But, more recently, cell phones. It’s amazing how quickly we adjusted to constant contact and instant access to information. I don’t know if that’s good or bad!

Q: Who is your hero, and why?

A: There are so many admirable people that I look up to, so I’m choosing one at random. Margaret Bourke-White was a documentary photographer/war photojournalist

Your retirement plans should be as strong as your financial planner! Let me tow you and your loved ones safely into your golden years.

Contact me today!

Lauren A. Tussey • 606-585-1738 Lauren.tussey@transamericanetwork.com

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working from the 1930s into the 1960s. As a child I wanted to be a photographer, and I found her courage and skill inspiring.

Q: What is one important skill every person should have?

A: A basic understanding of food production. Gardening is healing for the mind, body, soul, planet and wallet!

Q: If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?

A: Sherrod Brown and Jim Rennaci.

Let’s see who supports health and success for the locals in Appalachian Ohio!

Q: Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.

A: I know how to clean a fish.

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35 UNDER 35

WEEKEND EDITION, SEPTEMBER 29-30, 2018

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