Tuesday, February 26, 2013
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50 Cents Volume 144
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Breaking Restaurant hosts Benefit for Hunger Barriers By Justin Waybright
justin@theputnamstandard.com
By Justin Waybright justin@theputnamstandard.com
WINFIELD - Representatives from the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities held a forum Tuesday, breaking down barriers associated with those suffering from disabilities. It was an effort to erase common misconceptions and stereotypes people often conceive. The forum also helped prepare and educate parents and participants of the county’s 4H Special Lamb’s Project. Specialists Todd Rundle and Kelly Miller are both parents of children with disabilities. The two have used their experience and knowledge to help and encourage others. “We teach families how to advocate for kids to get what they need from schools,” said Rundle. “We also help them transition from school to employment, and we work with the department of rehabilitation services.” Rundle and Miller offered advice on proper etiquette. “A lot of people have a fear of the unknown, but once you know and realize they’re like you, the bullying issues go away,” said Miller. “Knowledge is power.” Depending on the disability, approaches to individuals will vary, Miller said. She and Rundle agree SEE BARRIERS ON PAGE 8
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TEAYS VALLEY—Smooth, soulful symphonies of mellow jazz poured out of keyboards, guitars, saxophones and drums Thursday evening. The savory sound of the Bob Thompson Unit saturated the walls of Fireside Grille during its Dine Out for Hunger event. Raw talent oozed out of saxophonist Doug Payne, guitarist Ryan Kennedy, bassist John Inghram, percussionist Tim Courts and pianist Bob Thompson. More than music to the ears, the night opened the eyes of guests to the harsh reality of hunger and those it affects. Hosts and organizers emptied common misconceptions in the area.
Smooth sounds - The Bob Thompson Unit performs for a crowd during the Dine Out for Hunger event Thursday evening. For every dollar raised, officials from Huntington Area Food Bank were able to provide 10 meals for Putnam County residents. Photo by Justin Waybright.
“It’s an underlying issue in Putnam County,” said Erin Highlander, interim director of development for the Huntington Area Food Bank. ”There are only three food pantries in the county and 6,000 people don’t know where their next meal is coming from.” Highlander represents HAFB, a non-profit organization that serves 17 counties across the state. She distributed brochures, stating, “Tonight’s event is a first step on the road to change.” The high-dollar houses in a vast sea of subdivisions, coupled with business-lined streets, paint a picture of wealth and prosperity. However, for some, this picture is out of focus. SEE HUNGER ON PAGE 13
Student opens New Chapter By Justin Waybright justin@theputnamstandard.com
POCA - Thursday morning, Hayden Bailey opened a new chapter in his life. The Poca High School senior signed a letter of intent to play football at Marietta College. Bailey received an academic scholarship at the school. Coaches, parents, teammates and friends packed the high school library to congratulate him. For the Bailey family, football runs in the blood. Both Bailey’s father and grandfather played for Poca. Assistant Poca Football Coach Ryan Bailey watched his son go from playing catch in their back yard to scoring touchdowns under Friday night lights. “I still remember his knee pads
Moving forward - Family congratulates Poca senior Hayden Bailey after he signed a commitment with Marietta College. Photo by Justin Waybright hitting his ankles and his helmet being about 10 sizes too big,” Bai-
ley said, smiling. “This feels good - there’s a sense of accomplish-
ment for him to get to some place not everyone can get to.” Pride and joy covered Bailey’s mother’s face. Feb. 21 marked a bittersweet day for Melinda Bailey. “This is overwhelming,” she said. “He’s done well for himself and has kept God first in his life that’s why he’s so successful.” Bailey continued, “He’s always had a love for this.” Bailey’s father agreed. “Every night before a game, he prays,” said Bailey. “He uses that as his strength.” Poca Head Football Coach Bob Lemley has seen hundreds of players rise to success. On Thursday, he was proud to see another one make it. “He’s worked hard for four years and made it pay off,” LemSEE STUDENT ON PAGE 4
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