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You know when the Chewning’s have a reunion it’s going to be a big one, after all there were 12 kids of Della and P.T.”Pet” Chewning . Whereas the old homeplace in Moneta use to hold all the family on Sundays, now it takes the Woodland Place to hold all of us. Our children grew up with all their cousins, now their children need to get to know their kinfolk. Julie C. Creasey spearheaded the event to make it become a reality. Out of the 12 Children 5 were present. Brothers, Melvin C. (Marie- Deceased) Daughter Julie and her family, Dick & Janie C. & Son Gene and family, Bill & Jean C. Daughter Karen Wood & family, son Billy Chewning, Alvin C. , (his family Bootie Bell Chewning sick couldn’t make it), Sister Nancy BOO_TEE@msn.com & Paul Thompson, Sons Keith, Doug, Dean and families . Sister -ln-laws Shirley C. (Corky -D), Daughters Kelly C. Hambrick and Terri C. Shrewbury, Claudine C. (Jim-D) son Mike C and Susan Anderson and Families. Carolyn C daughter of (Jerry-D) and family. Bootie (Bob-D) Angie C. Lewis and Greg Chewning and families. Also joining us was Pat Owen Daughter of Clarence & Eva Owen brother of Della. We missed seeing Ed & Connie C. in California and their family, sisters Mabel McLain (Friendship Manor) and Sallie Meador deceased. The Void is always there left by those that have passed away. How wonderful it is to have their kids carry, so their kids may know their relatives and create memories like all the others. Family is so important and having a loving one is priceless. If you have ever dreaded going to reunion you wouldn’t the Chewning’s . Lots of Laughter and always lots, & lots of good food. The only downside is all of a sudden you realize you are the older generation, just glad to be alive. Love to All!!! Happy 8th Anniversary to Lisa Chittum & Carson Hambrick, may you have many more together. Congratulations to Don & Edna Foutz who just celebrated their 55th anniversary. That is Awesome!. May you have many more. Get well wishes and prayers go out to Melanie Vest. Frank Kelly, Bill Hufton, Barbara Payne, Frances Coleman, Ann Nicely (2nd surgery this week) Karen Miller (RMH), Doris
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ABOVE: The old Chewning family home. LEFT: Abbie Bell Lewis Celebrates her 10th finally after being postponed from the snow fall.Front row- Sydney Perrington, Maggie Bennett, Catherine Woodson, Gemma Williams, Zandria Gabris, Birthday girl Abbie Lewis, Erica Perrington. Back row- Chuck E Cheese and Christie Vernon Hostess Great One too!!
Eanes Virginia Long Dreama Ferguson Howard, Elon N.C surgery this week. Mom Charlene Wolfe will be going down to be her nurse, she’s a good one to. Pease keep all those that are having health problems in your thoughts and Prayers. Congratulations to Betty Saunders on her retirement 41 years with Bank Of America. Enjoy Betty!!! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Karen Obenchian, Jay Brown, Shelly Richards, •See ‘BOOTIE’ - page 10
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Longtime Vinton resident and author Betty Divers Photo by Dan Vance
116 S. Poplar Street - Suite 1 Vinton, VA 24179 540-904-5836 - Office 540-904-5838 - Fax info@vintonvoice.com www.vintonvoice.com
EDITORIAL Chris Manning Publisher chris@vintonvoice.com Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief dan@vintonvoice.com Jacob Clifton Delivery/General info@vintonvoice.com Brian Manning Circulation Director brian@vintonvoice.com
COLUMNISTS Bootie Bell Chewning General Info BOO_TEE@msn.com Erin E. Delauder-Brooks Pharmacy askthepharmacist@vintonvoice.com Michele Gunter Lifestyle avoiceofreason@vintonvoice.com Amanda Stump Lifestyle (Female) info@vintonvoice.com Monica West Lifestyle (Female) info@vintonvoice.com
CONTRIBUTORS Gene Marrano Senior Contributor gmarrano@cox.net Danny Cruff Contributor dannycruffphotography@cox.net Barbara Dillon Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Danae Wensley Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Copyright © 2010 All rights reserved by Vinton Voice Newspapers
The Vinton Voice accepts and encourages letters to the editor. Letters must not exceed 400 words, must be signed and accompany contact information of the writer for verification purposes. Send to editor@ vintonvoice.com with the subject line ‘Letter to the Editor.’
Vinton Postmaster retires after seven years in office Debby McAllister was the Vinton postmaster for the last 7 years until her retirement, which was made official on January 2, 2010. Voice Publisher Chris Manning had an opportunity to speak with McAllister, just a few days after her official retirement. CHRIS MANNING: Can you give me your history with the post office and talk to me a little bit about your career there? DEBBY McALLISTER: I started out as a part-time employee and then I worked out at the main office in Roanoke in mail processing, then I went to Salem as a relief rural carrier and then I made regular rural carrier, I did that for seven years. Then I became a delivery service analyst, moving back to the Roanoke office in that position for five year. Then I became postmaster in Moneta, down at the lake, I was there for eleven years. Then I came to Vinton and was postmaster there for eight and a half years, so my total career service was thirty-three years. CM: So you decided it was time to enjoy the good life now? DM: Absolutely. I want to do some traveling and spend more time with grandchildren. CM: Over your career, what do you feel were some of most challenging aspects day-to-day? DM: As a carrier, the weather conditions were the most challenging, especially as a rural carrier where you had to provide your own vehicle. My husband was instrumental in keeping me running and keeping my vehicle on the road. As postmaster, I think learning all of the new technology, computers became very big during that time and the post office is always on the cutting edge of technology. Just trying to keep up with it. CM: I thought you might say Eddy Gray? (laughing) DM: Oh no, Eddy is the shining star. I loved working with him. CM: Over your career what do you feel were the most rewarding aspects of your job? DM: The people. There were so many wonderful people in the postal service, the employees I worked with and even with upper management there were some very intelligent wonderful people I was able to work with. Also, the customers, you meet so many customers and the customers in Moneta and Vinton were wonderful and I just loved every one of them. CM: Over the course of your career, specifically in Vinton as postmaster, is there anything you’d do differently if you had a chance to do it over? DM: I don’t think there is. I’m not just saying this because you’re asking me, but I’ve always said the postal service offered me so many opportunities to travel, I was on so many details and I got to travel to so many different locations and had such a good opportunity that no, I don’t think there is anything I would change. CM: Overall, your thoughts on Vinton as a whole? The people of Vinton, just your overall Vinton experience? DM: My children have gone through the William Byrd schools and I’m very closely connected to the Vinton area. The Vinton people are the most wonderful people in the world and I’m just so fond of them. I had such a great time working with so many wonderful people and having so many wonderful experience with the customers over the year, they’ve made my career. It’s been a wonderful career, I’m not leaving it because I want to get away from it, I’m leaving it because I wanted to spend more time with the grandchildren and to travel.
In Brief Jay Valley Road Larcenies
There have been two recent larcenies from residence on Jay Valley Road. They have both taken place during day light hours. If anyone has any information or has seen anything out of the ordinary in this area in the recent past please contact Detective Slough at 777-8638. Any information is welcome. Make sure you are keeping valuables in secure locations, locking your doors and windows and look out for one another. Roanoke County Police are looking for a white van with a blue stripe that was seen prior to the thefts. If you see a vehicle matching this description please contact the Roanoke County Police by dialing 9-1-1 and give them the location of the vehicle. As a safety precaution, please do not try to follow the vehicle or try to get a closer look at the driver/occupants. •More Briefs - pages 04 and 06
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Everybody Reads the Voice With the January 6 issue in hand at last Wednesday’s meet against Staunton River, sophomore William Byrd swimmer Kacy Edsall shows that even when they should be swimming, Everybody Reads the Voice. Do you have an ‘Everybody Reads the Voice’ photo? Reading the Voice at home, at a game, in the car, wherever...share your photos with us at editor@vintonvoice.com
In Brief Man pleads guilty in Vinton arson
A plan to burn down a home in an attempt to collect insurance money has ended with Aaron Woods pleading guilty to one count of using fire to commit a felony as well as one count of making false statements about his felon status while trying to purchase a firearm. According to investigators, Woods was asked by Shawn and Melissa Combow to burn their Hardy Road home, their reasoning, according to a plea agreement, was that they needed to make repairs to their home and owed a considerable amount in real estate taxes to Roanoke County. Woods was expected to be paid $5,000 for his efforts as well as taking items from the Combow’s as a down payment. The home caught fire December 27,2008 while the Combows were away. Woods has agreed to serve ten years in prison and re-pay the money Allstate Insurance paid to the Combow’s, $163,799.
Stovall named Chairman for 2010
The Roanoke County School Board today elected Vinton District representative Mike Stovall as the school board chairman for 2010. Stovall replaces outgoing two-time chairman Drew Barrineau. Catawba District representative David Wymer was selected to serve his first term as vice-chairman. Stovall was first elected to the Roanoke County School Board in 1994 and has been re-elected four times, most recently in 2009. He has previously served twice as board chairman (1997, 2001) and three times as vice-chairman (1995, 2000, 2009). A former investigator for the Vinton Police Department, Stovall currently owns Alert Driver Training, a driving instruction business. He also volunteers as a coach for the William Byrd baseball team. “The coming year is going to be one of the most challenging this board has ever seen, and I look forward to meeting that challenge” Stovall said. “Together this board will work to make the best decisions we can to ensure our students continue to receive a top-quality education.”
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Editor’s Note In our “Voice Box” last week, there was a mention of a portion of a road in Vinton that was very poorly cleaned from the recent snow. Through our Facebook page, Chris Lawrence, town manager, was able to track down where this stretch of road was. It turns out that the part that wasn’t cleaned well was actually in Roanoke City, right by the town line and not actually a portion of town.
Former Byrd assistant indicted in Bedford County, may face more charges in Roanoke County Vinton Voice Staff Report Former William Byrd High School assistant football coach and head tennis coach Rick Witt was indicted and charged last week in Bedford County with taking indecent liberties with a minor, a class 6 felony. A reliable source who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed with the Voice on Monday that one of the students in question in the situation does attend currently William Byrd High School. It was first reported locally on Monday, January 4 that Witt, the then head football coach and Algebra teacher at Staunton River High School in Bedford County was no longer the coach and later that he was no longer with the Bedford County School System. Before the first half of the week could wrap up, Witt was indicted by a grand jury, arrested and placed in the Bedford Adult Detention Center. According to the warrant leading to his arrest, Witt was suspected of having inappropriate relations with a 17-year old girl, who is said to be from a school outside of Bedford County. Authorities have declined in many news outlets from naming the school the student attends. The indictment and arrest is pertaining to the 17-year old and not to a Staunton River student, who e-mails to from Witt instigated the investigation.
Police began the investigation after school officials saw an e-mail they deemed inappropriate sent to a Staunton River student on December 16, who was identified in the warrant as being 16 years of age. Witt’s official last day of record with the school system in December 18. Details still remain blurred as to if Witt resigned abruptly from his position as he claims or was let go by the school system. In his short time coaching the Golden Eagles, he was able to put them in their first postseason in more than 10 years, including a 5-5 record during the 2009 season. Bedford County Circuit Court Judge James Updike set bond at $5,000 cash, or $10,000 in secured property. As of Friday night, Witt had posted bond and was no longer in the facility. Additional charges were being discussed and even expected as recently as late as last Friday; no specifics of those charges have been released as of press time, but are considered to now possibly include those in Roanoke County. Prosecutors in the case are currently evaluating the duration and nature of numerous relationships in question. A trial date for Bedford County has been set for April 6 for the 36-year old Witt.
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Obituaries GLORIA MAXEY DUDLEY BLANKENSHIP, of Roanoke , entered into eternal life on Friday, January 8, 2010 at the age of 57 due to complications of Parkinsons Disease. Gloria was born on October 9, 1952, the daughter of Perry O. Maxey, deceased and Edith Bolling Maxey. Gloria was a member of Barnhardt Baptist Church. She graduated from Staunton River High School , Brandon Secretarial College, and Hollywood School of Beauty. Gloria was employed by Security Scale Service until she became disabled. Survivors are two sons, Ross Blankinship and wife, Elizabeth, and Brett Blankinship and Heather Alewine; mother, Edith Bolling Maxey; two grandchildren, Carter and Addison Blankinship; two brothers, Mahlon Maxey and wife, Pat , and Lloyd Maxey and wife, Irene; nephews, David Maxey and wife, Autumn, and Evan Maxey; one niece, Margaret Maxey; and numerous aunts, uncles, and friends. Services will be conducted at 10 a.m., Monday, January 11, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel with Pastor Mike Lauridsen officiating. Interment will follow in Franklin Memorial Park in Franklin County. The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Sunday, January 10, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 9822221. YOU FOUGHT A LONG AND PAINFUL BATTLE, REST IN PEACE.
DORIS ANN JENKINS KING, 67, of Roanoke, Va., died Saturday, January 9, 2010. A private memorial service was held Sunday, January 10, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel. Doris’ sweet spirit will be missed by all who knew her. Arrangements by Oakey’s Vinton Chapel & Crematory, 540-982-2221. JAMES MICHAEL (MIKE) THOMPSON, 68, of Montvale, Va., passed away on Tuesday, January 5, 2010. He was born on March 5, 1941, the son of the late Rachel Thompson Ellis. He was also preceded in death by his son, Charles Michael Thompson. He was very active and a lifetime member of Glade Creek Lutheran Church. Mike retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad. Surviving are his son, James Kevin Thompson and his wife, Lea; granddaughter, Lulu, all of Elcajon, Calif.; special aunt, Phyllis Coffey, of Vinton; a dear friend and caregiver, Donna Hatter, of Montvale, her daughter, Sarah Hatter, and her son, Parker, both of Lexington, Va.; brothers, Johnny Ellis and his wife, Brenda, of Ohio, Bob Ellis and wife, Kathy, of North Carolina, and Richard Ellis and wife, Kathy, of North Carolina; his surviving family also includes cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends. Special thanks to all the caregivers the last few months. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Glade Creek Lutheran Church, 3359 Webster Road, Blue Ridge, Va. 24064. Funeral services were conducted 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 9, 2010, at Glade Creek Lutheran Church with the Rev. Stephen Shackelford officiating. The family received friends on Friday, January 8, 2010, from 2 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by Lotz Funeral Home, Vinton Chapel. Online condolences at www.lotzfuneralhome.com.
PAUL WILLIAM JOHNSON, 83, of Roanoke, died Wednesday, January 6, 2010. Mr. Johnson retired from the United States Marine Corp with 23 years of service. He later retired from the U.S. Postal Service and was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy L. Johnson. Surviving are a daughter, Robin Judd & husband Wayne. Four grandchildren, Richard P. Ralph, Christina N. Terragano, William Scott Edwards, & Morgan Shianne Judd. Two great grandchildren, William Conner Scruggs & Darren Chance Banville. Two sisters, Betty & April. Funeral services were conducted 12 noon Monday, January 11, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel with Pastor Milton Atkins officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery. The family received friends Sunday, January 10, 2010 from 2 to 4 & 6 to 8 P.M. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel (982-2221). THOMAS S. ORANGE, 51, of Roanoke, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2010, after a lengthy illness. Surviving are his wife of 12 years, Vickie Orange; two daughters, Lora Burd and Sheena Hill; three sons, Thomas D. Orange, Timothy and Russell Keith, all of North Carolina; four grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews; including a special niece, Trish Caldwell; four brothers, John, Ronnie, William and Mel Orange; and a sister, Debra Caldwell. A memorial service was held 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2010, at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel. No public visitation. The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Blue Ridge Cancer Care, 2013 Jefferson Street, SW, Roanoke, VA, 24014. Arrangements by Oakey’s Vinton Chapel and Crematory, 982-2221.
ELIZABETH B. GALLAGHER, 80, of Roanoke went home to be with the Lord, Sunday, January 3, 2010. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wilbert; and children, Debbie and Danny. Surviving are daughter, Donna (Bob) Lusk; son, Darrell (Kim) Gallagher; six grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; siser, Marion Bowles, and nieces. Funeral services will be held 12 noon, Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at First Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Earl Robertson and Rev. Randy Ledsome officiating. Interment will follow in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel and from 10 to 12 noon at the church preceding the service. Arrangements by Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 982-2221. DAVID LOWELL WETZEL, 65, of Hardy passed away Saturday, January 9, 2010. He was predeceased by his father, George L. Wetzel. Surviving are his wife of 33 years, Diane A. Wetzel; sons, Gerald (Kimberly) Swick, Murfreesboro, TN and James E. Wetzel, VA Beach, VA; mother, Marie H. Wetzel; brother, Donald G. (Ruth) Wetzel, all of Rochester, NY; grandchildren, Shelby, Tim, and Alyson, Brianna, Dianna, and Hanna Marie; and several nephews and nieces. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Lions Eye Bank, P.O. Box 1772, Roanoke, VA 24008 or your local SPCA. There will be a private service for the family. Arrangements by Oakey’s Vinton Chapel and Crematory, 982-2221. BEATRICE WARFE ALLS, 95, passed away on Saturday, January 2, 2010. She was a former resident of Clearview Manor Apartments. She is preceded in death by her husband, Mason C. Alls; a son, James Lee Alls; and son-in-law, Tommy W. Fralin. She is survived by children, Walter M. Alls and wife, Kathleen, Lakeland, Fla., Lois J. Lanier and husband, Walter, Blue Ridge, Va., R. Kenneth Alls and wife, Anita, Savannah, Ga., Mary Ann Booker and husband, Charles, Vinton, Va., Donald E. Alls and wife, Joyce, Roanoke, Va., Dorothy M. Fralin, Roanoke, Va.; and daughter-in-law, Shirley B. Alls, Salem, Va., 12 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel on at noon on Tuesday, January 5, 2010, with the Rev. Roy Kanode officiating. Burial followed in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. The family received friends 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, January 4, 2010, at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 982-2221.
VOICE 05
In Brief Local student makes Dean’s List
Former William Byrd student Andrew Nicely made the Dean’s List at Carson-Newman College his freshman year first semester. Both of his parents, Andy and Lisa attended Carson-Newman and never made the Dean’s List, they shared with the Voice. Congrats Andrew.
Public Works Closing
The Town of Vinton Public Works Department will be closed Monday, January 18, 2010 in observance of the Martin Luther King holiday. Monday’s refuse will be collected on Tuesday, January 19, 2010. All other days will be on the regular schedule.
Local Writers Conference
The Roanoke Regional Writers Conference III is scheduled Jan. 22-23 at Hollins University in Roanoke and features NPR essayist Janis Jaquith of Charlottesville as its keynote speaker. Among those teaching classes will be John Anderson, whose new book on working through cancer with his wife, Stand by Her: A Breast Cancer Guide for Men, has become something of a national sensation. The conference, which opens Friday evening with a wine reception at Hollins, features 23 classes and two round-table discussions on Saturday. The conference is aimed at vocational and avocational writers who want to become better at their craft and to network with other writers from the region. The cost—which includes the reception, coffee all day Saturday, lunch, 23 classes and two roundtable discussions—is $50. One of the roundtable discussions will be on selfpublishing and will feature four writers who have published their own works, including two who have published books in the Publish on Demand (POD) format, meaning books are printed individually as ordered. This alternative is being chosen by people who are not necessarily publishing books in order to make money. There are two sets of classes—one four, one three—on social media and translating your written work for stage or screen in addition to a range of other classes. Among the other presenters will be Roanoke Times columnist Dan Casey and two-time Pulitzer Prizenominated reporter Rex Bowman, Blue Ridge Country editor Cara Modisett, Leisure Publishing Editor in Chief Kurt Rheinheimer, two-time Pulitzer Prize nominee Rex Bowman, local historian and columnist Darrell Laurent of Lynchburg, writer-educators Roland Lazenby and Jeanne Larsen, former Omni Magazine editor Keith Ferrell (who has written 18 books), poet Melanie Almeder, author and educator Doug Cumming (The Southern Press: Literary Legacies and the Challenge of Modernity), and filmmaker Sara Elizabeth Timmins of Smith Mountain Lake, among others. A complete schedule, registration information and biographies of the teachers can be found at www.hollins.edu/ news-events/writers/writers.htm. For more information, e-mail conference organizer Dan Smith at editrdan@msn. com or call 540-556-8510.
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Want your Voice heard? Each week, we will share some the comments you share with us weekly through our online presence on Facebook, Twitter, our blog and via E-mail.
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Ravenelle Brammer via E-Mail
Another enjoyable edition this week! I really liked Chris’ story about sportsmanship. It’s getting harder and harder to enjoy the high school sports due to all the physical and plain mean conduct! If you want to see brutality in action – watch a Salem girl’s basketball game! Such a shame – the players are so talented they really don’t need to do the “dirty” stuff to win… My opinion is it must come from the coaching and is either encouraged or expected. The Byrd game at Salem was brutal – just ask the Coach or Ms. Worley. They sent game film off for review, leading to a game suspension of a Salem player. What is this teaching the kids? Especially those coached to play ball, learn the sport and use proper conduct? The story on Coach Fran was a good read… A lot of smiles at our house again as our JV player, #13, had her photo in your paper! She loves your sports photos – full of action! Many thanks
Ann Jester Sheehan via Facebook
“Thanks for all you are doing! It is great to have a real Vinton paper again.”
Michelle McCarthy
via Facebook “You guys are wonderful!!!! I wrote an article on my customers at the EZN and you guys published it. You bring the actual voice of Vinton to Vinton!!!!!”
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Even your local leaders listen to your Voice on our Facebook page. Below is a excerpt of a conversation between a reader and Town Manager Chris Lawrence on our page:
Rena Rowland Whorley
via Facebook “Does anyone know why the intersection at Bypass Rd and Washingon Ave has been closed all weekend and sill today? There is no apparent construction starting and is major headache to get to Kroger or other places coming from Washinton Ave now.”
Chris Lawrence
Town Manager in Response “We regret the delay at this intersection. We are having circuit problems with the controller. The contractor for the Town should have things back to normal in the next two days. Sorry for the inconvenience, we are diligently working on it.”
Rena Rowland Whorley
“Thanks for the great response. It always makes it easier when you know what is going on...”
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classifieds
Reach the Vinton Voice by phone at 540.904.5836 By fax at 540.904.5838 Or via e-mail at info@vintonvoice.com
Vinton, Bonsack, Mt.Pleasant MARKET
FOR SALE
CEMETERY For Sale, 4 cemetery plots in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park. Retail at $1400 a piece, will sell all 4 for $2900. Call 540-589-3936
PETS
FOR SALE
Model X5150 Matching lounge Lexmark and chair – both for All in One printer, $1000. Almost like scanner, copier, and fax brand new! Call 540-427-4466 Real good condition, comes with....software Drill Press, Bearing for windows and Press, Forklift, Misc. macintosh, owners shop items for sale. manual, two extra black And guess what, ink cartridges, one The Price is Right. extra color cartridge, A+ Price is Right Auto power cable. USB cable Parts and Supplies not furnished. asking 341 Walnut Ave. Vinton $75.00...call Fred at 982-8777 (540) 353-6268
Medela breast pump “in style breast pump” - includes speed control. Professional CLOTHING performance for ACTIVITIES today’s active Wedding Dress Pinochole Players Call mothers. Size 8, never worn Pete at 540-345-3342 Breast pump and wedding dress with accessories included. matching flower girl Slam Boxing Partner model # 57010 dress, slip, veil and sash. with gloves $200, call $175.00 $500. 540-910-2663 Call 345-9369 Call 540-910-1203 Sweet Cat Needs a good home. Call 540427-4466
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HELP WANTED Teaberry’s Cafe, 129 E. Cleveland in Vinton, is looking for Kitchen help and Waitress staff. Experience is preferred, but not necessary. Apply in person before 11 or after 2 Mon thru Fri. Ask for Brenda.
WANTED
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BUSINESS
Vinton Chamber of Carpet Re-Stretching Professional and/or and Repair Commerce Business space 540-776-9591 available, has moved offices and approx 400 sq. ft. is looking for a few new 116 S. Poplar St. things on their wishlist. DRIVER Woodland Square, For more, contact: off of Washington Vinton Area Chamber DRIVER SIDE REHAB Enrolling new drivers Ave. Next door to the of Commerce NEW 36-period class runs Vinton Area Chamber location: 116 S.Poplar 1/12/10-2/22/10 of Commerce and the St., Suite 1A – Vinton, M/Tu/Th 4-5:45pm Vinton Voice news office. VA 24179 BTW avail by appt. Call For information, Call: 540-343-1364 please call now 981-1665 580 4675
SERVICES
RENTALS
RESIDENTIAL 1 bedroom Apt. in Downtown Vinton, no pets, no children, $450./mo. Util. incl. Credit check. 540-580-5907
VOICE 07
Council remembers Obenchain; approves dispatch merger
Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net Last week Vinton Town Council held its first public meeting since the passing of Vice Mayor Billy Obenchain, who recently lost his long fight with cancer. There were prayers for the 16 year council veteran, who was also a retired Roanoke City firefighter, and words of remembrance towards the end of the Tuesday night session. “When I think of Billy I think of a very courageous man,” said Pastor John Ott of Parkway Wesleyan, who gave the opening convocation. Observing perhaps the unoccupied seat at the left end of the council dais, Ott added that, “ I can’t help thinking how empty the room is today.” He noted that as a Town Council member Obenchain (he was 57) listened to members of the public, even when they were irate, and “never shot back.” Later on Mayor Brad Grose spoke of the “bravery,” Obenchain showed in attending almost every council meeting, even if he had chemotherapy or other cancer treatments earlier that day. “He was a great man…a man that stood behind his convictions.” Wes Nance, a relative newcomer on Town Council, choked back his emotions: “Billy would probably wonder why we were making such a fuss.” Nance noted that, “[Obenchain’s] service to the community did not flag with his illness.” Councilman Bobby Altice called his fallen counterpart “dedicated to the town…a people person.” Carolyn Fidler could not speak about Obenchain for fear of breaking down, instead she proposed a resolution that would see a change in the town’s charter, giving it 45 days to name a future sudden replacement on council,
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Prayers for Billy Obenchain, as his chair remains empty at far left in Town Council chambers. instead of the 30 it now has to fill Obenchain’s seat. That seat must be filled by January 23 one month after Obenchain’s death – with a term that would run until June 30, when the vice mayor’s seat is up for reelection. Council passed a resolution 4-0, but the change to 45 days would require General Assembly approval and 11th District delegate Onzlee Ware may be called on to co-sponsor a bill. Merger approved: Town Council approved the memorandum of agreement that will merge Vinton’s communications (dispatch) center with Roanoke County’s, which is located at the Public Safety Building on Cove Road. Town finance director Barry Thompson said the consolidation should save Vinton taxpayers around $250,000 a year. Vinton Town Council and the county Board of Supervisors met on December 1, to review the results of a joint committee study. “The conclusion [was] to move forward,” said Town Manager Chris Lawrence. Roanoke County had already approved such a merger at its Dec. 15 meeting Councilman Wes Nance said there was a “strong economic incentive to do this,” while Mayor Brad Grose wanted to assure Vinton
dispatchers making the transition to Roanoke County employees that they would not be hurt security-wise or financially in doing so. “[This is] not something that is detrimental to them as far as career,” added Lawrence. Any challenges voiced by Town of Vinton department heads about having to work with dispatchers to be located now on the other side of the county can be resolved “with some minor changes,” Lawrence assured council. Community garden flap: some residents on Tinker Avenue voiced their reservations about a proposed community garden that might be slated for a Vinton-owned lot in their neighborhood. Several spoke of increased traffic, the attraction of more nuisance animals to the fruits and vegetables that might be planted there, and the loss of an empty lot now used as a park by some. Mark Powell, who has helped get several community gardens off the ground in Roanoke City, approached Town Council about placing one in Vinton, where local residents could plant small crops. Town Council members assured speakers at last Tuesday’s meeting that there would be public meetings seeking their input before any decision is made to locate a garden on the Tinker Avenue lot, which is in the flood plain.
Anytime Fitness
Bonsack’s Hometown Health Chris Manning Publisher When Dwight and Shirley Ward decided to start Anytime Fitness in Bonsack, they didn’t do it to try to knock off the big boys of the fitness center industry, “it’s always been my dream to open a fitness facility” says Dwight, but they wanted to do things differently and now, with their first year behind their belt, they feel like they have. “We’re the mom and pop place” Dwight said, while waving to a regular who was walking in the door, “we know them and they know us.” Located in the new Kroger Plaza in Bonsack, Anytime Fitness was one of the first companies
to sign a lease in, what is now, a very popular and traffic filled location. While the economy was taking its toll on the nation, the Wards were planning out their dream, no matter what the TV talking heads were saying. They pressed on for over a year, until finally opening their doors, one year ago this past Saturday. The name, Anytime Fitness, has a literal meaning because you can go there and work out any day, any time, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. “It’s so tough for people to make the time for their health these days, but we try to make it as easy and accessible as possible” says Dwight. “We look at this as a place where anyone can come,” Dwight remarks “whether you’re an advanced lifter or someone who is just getting started, we’ve got members anywhere from 18
to 86 and they’ve gotten something out of it.” Dwight personally sits down with each and every new member, there are now close to 500, going over their goals and their health history, “it’s really about being healthy” he says. The fees are fair, “we’re not the cheapest, but we’re not the most expensive” he says, but what you get for those fees is more than just free weights and elliptical machines. There are tanning beds, treadmills and stationary bikes, as well as the personal training services that Dwight himself offers. The machines are new and according to Dwight “run slick.” Of course, when you look at the bang for your buck and look at the fact that you can hit the gym anytime you want, there’s no question that it is a value. “People think they have to spend a lot of time in the gym and that’s just not the case” he says “and we try to make it fit around their life instead of making them have to fit their life around the gym.” Since the gym is available all the time, security is a big focal point for the Wards, once the gym is no longer monitored, entry is only available if you have a security badge, which is provided with membership, as well as the cameras that are all over the gym, the feed is available to be viewed by the Wards from their home, should there be any issue. There are also instant ways to contact the authorities that are needed should there be any issue. The Wards live just a few minutes down the road from their location and really enjoy being part of their community. While Anytime Fitness, which is a franchise based out of Minnesota, has what they call “preferred vendors” they prefer their franchisees purchase their supplies from, Ward prefers to buy local, “we buy everything we can local, from a 1-3 mile radius, we want to help support other small businesses like us.” The other thing they want to continue to do is to keep their location as “hometown” as they can, “we’re not looking to grow this thing huge, we’re not looking to turn this into a big box gym” Dwight remarks “we want to be able to keep it here, keep it clean and keep the equipment that our members need and want.”
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symptoms may include general lethargy, sleeping too much, difficulty waking up in the morning, and cravings for sweet, starchy foods, withdrawal from family and friends, and a difficulty in concentrating and completing tasks. It is believed the cause of SAD is the lack of bright light during the shorter days of the winter months. Researchers have found that bright light changes the chemicals in the brain. In addition, the rate of SAD increases in countries further away from the equator. There are several ways to deal with SAD. First, remember, it’s no one’s fault. Like regular depression, it’s caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain resulting in depressed thoughts and feelings. There are a number of treatments available. First, there is light therapy. Surround yourself with light. You may have to be creative in doing this. Exposure to particularly fluorescent light during the morning and evening helps alleviate symptoms. Also called phototherapy, the treatment is available by utilizing light boxes for approximately 20 minutes at a time. Exercise regularly. Not only is an exercise routine good for your overall health, but it raises your mood by releasing endorphins for a short time after you’ve finished. Endorphins are the chemicals in your brain that are known as “natural pain relievers” and produce a feeling of well-being. Take your vitamins, especially vitamin D. An adequate amount of vitamin D can be absorbed by spending a few minutes in the sun. However, with limited sunlight in the winter
months, a vitamin D supplement may become necessary. Anti-depressant medications, particularly the SSRI family, have proven effective in treating SAD. These are available as prescriptions from your family doctor. You may also try St. John’s Wart during the winter months. St. John’s Wart is an over-the-counter natural mood enhancer. Finally, carefully timed doses of melatonin may help relieve symptoms. If you feel like you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, don’t worry. You’re not alone. It is estimate approximately 2%-9% of the population is affected. There are treatments for your symptoms. Finally, remember, it’s seasonal. Before we all know it, sprint will be here! One final note: Please contact your family doctor or healthcare professional if you think are suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Don’t attempt any treatments on your own without consulting your health care professional. For more information, you may want to take a look at the following websites: http://www.ehow.com/how_5651306_ deal-sad_-seasonal-affective-disorder.html. http://www.ehow.com/about_4777569_ seasonal-affective-disorder-treatments.html http://www.sad.uk.com You can also go to go Google, and type in “Seasonal Affective Disorder” for a more complete list of online resources and help. Until next time, I wish you all peace, health, and happiness.
Proud parents are Jay and Danielle and Big Brother Alex. Now Mommy can put her feet down. So glad everything is Ok. Congrats!!! to all. Vinton’s’ Relay for life is gearing up for Jason Boothe, Don Beville, David West, Jack Lawhorn, Allison Neely Woods, April 16 & 17. Now’s the time to get your team Bonny Sparks, Kristy Manning Stinnette, together and start raising money for the fight Kathleen Dooley, Kate Greenway Grubbs, against cancer. For all types. The kick -off party Patti Pugh Thompson, Jane Glover, Lois will be Jan 19 in WBHS Cafeteria. 6:00 , Theme Baker, Kit McCarthy Williams. Hope the 70’s put on or find old 70 clothes and come you all have or had a great day. on down. If not come anyway. Potluck dinner. Aiden Brown is final here safe and sound. Note to churches and schools. Get teams
together and challenge other teams/ Like WBHS & Northside, Makes it so much fun. Let’s DO IT AGAIN IN 2010. We need everyone and I do mean EVERYONE’s Help. We all have had someone in our life that has or had cancer. Go on the website for more info or call Carolyn & Don Williams 344-3142. Congratulations Natasha Ryan, WDBJ 7, Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (Title of Show writers) all finished the 26 mile marathon at Disney World Sunday. Way to go!!! Proud of you all! I’m tired just thinking about it.
Michele Gunter AVoiceofReason@vintonvoice.com Happy New Year to everyone!!! I hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed holiday season. Well, it’s January. The excitement of the holidays is behind us, the decorations are put away (or are being put away), and the promise of a prosperous 2010 fills us with hope and excitement. Yet, for the next several weeks, we will have short days, cold weather, and the occasional winter storm. We wake up, it’s dark outside. We come home from work, it’s dark outside. Many people feel a little blue, or even depressed. That leads me into this column’s topic: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mood disorder where people experience depression, or depressive symptoms, during the winter while having normal moods, or mental health, during the remainder of the year. In addition to a general depressed, or “blue” feeling,
•‘BOOTIE’ continued from page 02
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Street Cars Barbara Dillon Vinton Historical Society Back when I was a child growing up in Vinton there were lots of children growing up in most neighborhoods. Few people had automobiles and everyone walked everywhere. There were no buses going through our town to pick up people. A street car came into Vinton by way of Walnut Avenue from Roanoke and the rails ended where the stoplight is at the corner of Pollard Street and Lee Avenue today. That’s in the middle of the street right by the Post Office parking lot and the bank. The car line came into Vinton by the Southern States Mill and the Norfolk/Southern East End Shops and the middle of downtown Roanoke (Campbell Avenue and Jefferson Street). There were lots of small cottages and homes along each side of the car line as it came into Vinton and in Vinton and lots of people lived there. The street car would stop at every corner and pick up or let off riders. In my day it cost seven cents to ride one way or four tokens for twenty-five cents or you could by a pass for $1 a week. You could get a transfer and get off in downtown Roanoke and transfer onto another car into another section of Roanoke with no extra cost but if you went on to Salem you had to add a little extra fee. One of my best friend’s father worked for the N&W and her aunt worked at the Viscose Pant and they bought passes. After school or on Saturdays my friend and I would borrow their passes and go up town (Roanoke) and go to the dime stores or movies. Downtown Roanoke had at least four or five movie theaters and several department stores and drug stores and even hat stores and dress shops. Every building had some sort of store in it. In those days lots of people would go shopping on Saturday and stay all day. You could by a hot dog and a drink for five cents each or even a vegetable plate meal at Kress or Woolworth’s lunch counter or the Cavaliers Restaurant for twenty-five cents. Of course wages were in line with these prices. When I got my first job in 1940 the wage hour law was thirty cents per hour. We would even get raises of one half cent or one cent per hour. Today my children snicker at this. No five cent packs of gum or candy bars exist today. In those days Vinton was downtown and Roanoke was uptown to Vinton people.
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Photos by Dan Vance
Part One >Former Vinton resident Betty Divers shares faith and finds motivation in writings Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief Betty Divers is sitting in her basement. Quiet, serene – she sits at her computer and takes a curative step forward as she types out another poem, perhaps for another book or maybe even just for her own pleasure. It isn’t exactly the picture you would first imagine from an area the habitant lovingly refers to as ‘the hole.’ Divers herself lives just on the outskirts on Vinton looking in, with a daughter who lives in Alaska and son who lives in the Town of Vinton– this is what she considers home, both now and during the 27 years she lived on Gravel Hill Road. In her current home in Roanoke is also her writing home– that mostly silent basement, where spines of different brightly colored books line the shelves, a blue recliner sits in an inviting mood and where her husband knows that she may be for hours. “I have loved to write poems for a long time, but I didn’t get started in it until I got something from Poetry.com,” Divers said. “It’s a scam,” she quickly added with a laugh while discussing her poem that was printed in one of their books. Years later, Divers is now four books deep into here own library of poetry, with the help of the company of Xlibris, a company now based in Bloomington, Indiana. Her most recent book, ‘I Pour Out My Soul,’ was released in 2009. She began with her first book, ‘Window into My Soul,’ opened the door for her works, though much shorter than her others. “I started out with 100 or so pages because I figured that most people who read poetry, they don’t read it like a book,” Diver said. Divers’ second book, ‘My Soul Cries Out,’ was mixed with many pictures that she used as inspiration when writing the poetry. Her third book, ‘My Soul Longs for Thee,’ continued another trend that held true for all of her books until that point– the cover was co-designed and photographed by Vinton’s Barry and Scott Brooks. “Last year, I didn’t write but 16 or 17 poems the whole year,” she said while recounting of the loss of her mother on December 28, 2008. “It’s like I had a block, I couldn’t think anymore.” Divers feels that the loss also affected her inspiration, where she believes her poems come directly from. She has written five poems already in the short time since the start of 2010. Before her writer’s block, she was writing an average of one poetry a day. “I don’t feel like I could come up with some of the things that are in those poems,” Divers said. “After my mother died, the words just didn’t flow anymore.” Divers, who is involved with her church, Riverland Road Baptist, also sees her books as an opportunity to share faith with those who read the book whether they know her personally or not. “These poems are like a biography, they are my feelings,” Divers said. “It doesn’t mean all of what someone else feels. I’m hoping that somebody will pick up on it kind of like I was witnessing to them.” •Betty Divers Part 2 - Next Week in the Vinton Voice
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A Female Perspective
A New Year means it is time to beautify yourself It’s a new year, new decade and time to go from frumpy to fabulous. Just because your married with children doesn’t mean you have to look like it. Yes, your man thinks you always look beautiful but its now time for you to feel it. That being said, moving back to Vinton last year I’ve seen some victims of fashion beyond compare. Also trends come and go; problem is a lot of females I’ve noticed are just now getting into certain styles that are officially out of style. Remember, just because they sell it Monica West in stores doesn’t mean info@vintonvoice.com its in style or attractive. To help you better understand I’ve got some do’s and don’ts starting from head going down to toe to help you go from not to hot. The hair and makeup is on average where women spend the most time and effort. Inverted bobs are out. This style was over in the fall. The traditional blunt cut bob is where it is. Instead of that stick straight hair try some volume in
the crown with loose curls. Dark underneath and light on top was over a year ago. Time to try some warmer tones to brighten your eyes and add color to your face. Try copper and auburn lowlight for a change. The black eyeliner is out. Navy blue is in. Throw out the maroon and plum lipsticks. Leave it back in the 90’s. Try and pick a shade 1-2 tones darker than your natural lip color with a dab of gloss. With clothing its all about color. Skinny jeans are out and pencil skirts are in. When getting into skirts colored panty hose are old school. Textured tight in neutral colors is a great way to add a little pop to a conservative outfit for the office. Fitted cardigans with wide belts have hit the fashion magazines. Don’t have the money for a new wardrobe? Accessories are the way to go. Dress up a black top and jeans with a long chained necklace with a studded pendant. Throw the quilted purses away. If your grandmother could have made it chances are its not fashionable. Bold colors and patterned handbags are an easy way to spice up a boring pants suit. With shoes it’s pretty cut and dry. First off it isn’t and has never been attractive to wear tennis shoes with dress pants. Uggs, Crocs and the slipper style shoe are out. Yes they are comfortable but its over. This winter it’s all about boots. Riding boots, ankle boots, and thigh high boots are all the rage. Pointed toe shoes are now
good for only poking someone’s eye out. For a night out try round or square stiletto shoe with a slight platform. Artificial nails, manicures, and pedicures are nice but tend to get expensive depending on how often you get them done. Artificial nails are fine but if you do have them keep them at a reasonable length. The point of them is to add a little length not to have claws on your fingers. That is unless you’re starring in the remake of Nightmare on Elm Street. A nice clean manicure is always good especially when having small children. Try deep tone polishes unless you have short nubs. Cuticles get dry and crack this time of year so get some cuticle oil to put on at bedtime. Just because your feet are covered up in the winter doesn’t mean to neglect your feet. Keep them cut, filed, buffed and painted. Believe it or not men notice your toes and feet and do appreciate when you keep them up. Now this doesn’t mean you have to get them professionally done. Any grocery store or pharmacy has manicure and pedicure kits at low cost with everything you need in it. Come on ladies of Vinton! It’s time for a new resolution in 2010! Make it your year to spend some effort towards making yourself feel and look fantastic. So get motivated and let’s give Vinton the reputation of having beautiful, confident women.
2010
the voice of vinton...this year and beyond
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Trey Mitchell
Danae Wensley Town of Vinton Each January 1 thousands of people make resolutions for the upcoming year. Some want to learn a new skill, others want to get organized and many want to get out of debt. But many surveys report that one of the most popular resolutions is losing weight, with exercising and reducing stress also joining the top ten lists. If you, like so many others, want to lose weight, start exercising, reduce stress or just improve your health in general, then our Tai Chi class might be for you! The Town of Vinton has been offering Tai Chi classes for a year and-a-half, both to senior citizens and to the general public. Tai Chi is a very powerful, yet gentle form of exercise that can improve balance, flexibility and strength, as well as focus and concentration. It is good for all ages and ability levels. And indeed, our classes do have a wide range of abilities and ages: the youngest participant is 13, while the oldest is 93. Class instructor Steve Garay, Pastor of Oakview Church of God, has been teaching Tai Chi for two and a half years. He teaches Yang and Sun Style Tai Chi Forms, Qigong, as well as Sword and Cane forms and occasional seminars such as Defensive Cane. His classes tend to be small, with an average of only five to ten people per class, which allows for more personalized attention. Pastor Garay became interested in Tai Chi while taking a course at Virginia Western Community
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College. He said that within six to eight weeks, he noticed an improvement in his balance, flexibility and focus. After he’d taken the class for five months, the instructor encouraged him to consider teaching. Pastor Garay is now a certified Tai Chi instructor, teaching six classes per week in Vinton and Bedford. He is also working on certification as a Personal Trainer. Pastor Garay currently offers two types of classes: Tai Chi for Arthritis, which is specifically geared toward senior citizens, and regular Tai Chi for the general public. All classes take place on Thursdays at the Charles R. Hill Senior Center. The easy-to-find location makes the classes accessible to residents of not only Vinton, but Roanoke and Salem as well. Pastor Garay also tries to keep the costs low, charging nothing for the senior classes, and $30 per month for the others. “I consider Tai Chi to be an extension of my ministry because it reduces stress and improves health and overall wellness, “Pastor Garay said. The Tai Chi for Arthritis classes for seniors occur on Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. The regular classes take place on Thursdays at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. For more information, please call Steve Garay at (540) 797-1256 or e-mail bonsaitaichi@yahoo.com. For more information about the Town of Vinton and the programs we offer, please visit our web site at www.vintonva.gov You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube by searching for “Vinton.”
WBHS graduate is a professional actor from New York City who is a Roanoke Valley One of Trey’s first stage appearances was in the stage version of “It’s A Wonderful Life,” staged by Mrs. Carol Webster with the WB Players. He continued to appear in several shows with the Players including “The Wizard of Oz,” “The USO Show,” and “Sabrina Fair.” He has appeared locally with Mill Mountain Theatre, and during his senior year, he attended the North Carolina School of the Arts. Trey continued his studies at Shenandoah Conservatory where he received a BFA in Musical Theatre. He has performed in the National Tours of “Wonderful Town,” and “Seussical” as the The Cat in the Hat. Trey also appeared in “The Jungle Fun Room” and “The Thing About Joe” in New York. In Regional Theatre, he performed in a number of productions including “The History Boys, “Beauty and the Beast, “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” “Wizard of Oz,” and “CATS, He has also appeared on the television shows “Kid Concoctions/NFusion” and “Bad Apples.” His dance experience is in tap, jazz, ballet, ballroom, modern, and swing. His instructors have included Mollie Murray and Cynthia Penn-Henderson (dance), Lisa Reagan, Dr. Karen Keating, Dr. Thomas Albert, and Ben Furey (voice), and Lara Teeter, Harold Herman, Bodde Bauer, Suzie Pike, Robert Moyer, Matthew Bulluck, and Tonya Belov (acting). His unique performance skills have made him a very marketable actor and include The Worm, Double Cartwheels, JugglerBalls/Rings/Scarves, Axe Jumping, Novice Balloon Animal Maker, Circus Skills, Whistler, Partnering, Percussionist-mallet/drum, Stage Combat Experience, Accents, and Original Voices/Characters. Trey’s Film Credits Include: Larry Washburn in the feature film, “Dumping Lisa.” Theatre credit wise, Trey was last seen nationally as The Cat in the Hat in “Seussical” and Frank Lippencott in the first national tour of “Wonderful Town.” Last year he was in the Regional Premiere of “The History Boys,” as Posner, at Northern Stage Company. This past summer, Trey was seen as Trevor in the New York Fringe Festival production of “The Jungle Fun Room,” by the brilliant playwright Brian Hampton. TV Credits include: The sitcom pilot, “Bad Apples,” as Irma’s Assistant, and being seen/heard as part of the group, NFusion, in association with the Kid Concoctions Company, Half Pint Productions, and PBS’s pledge programming. Trey desires to give back the community that began his career by working with young actors. Over the past few summers, he has worked in summer camps in Roanoke, including the CPA Middle School Camp. Originally, Trey was asked to be part of the Roanoke County CPA Guest Artist series for a small workshop. With Ms. Herchenrider’s departure to Hawaii, the Center was fortunate to have Trey work out his schedule so that he could be on staff with the students for 3 months. Carol Webster is thrilled to have him work with the students and appreciate his time and talent that he is providing for the students. How often do you get to work with his kind of talent. AWeSOME!! As you can see Trey has been a busy guy since he left WBHS. Proud of You Trey!!!!!!
Unforced turnovers doom Byrd at Northside >Loss opens Blue Ridge District play; boys also fall at home to Hidden Valley Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief Blue Ridge District play got underway last Saturday night for the Terriers, who couldn’t capitalize on an early lead, falling 52-41 at Northside, in part due to many costly unforced turnovers. The Terriers led after the first quarter, but came out sluggish in the second period. “We made some shots, we were playing well. Then things started going south on us a little bit and that’s when we started making mistakes,” said Byrd coach Dave Culicerto. Northside’s Neil Brown scored eight of his team high 13 points in the second quarter. Byrd had just five points over the same time span. “The one thing that was disheartening and even confusing was all of the unforced turnover,” Culicerto said. “The traveling and
palming violations – it’s just the way the game was called, both ways, and that hurt us a lot.” Mankin led the way with 17 points, followed by 11 from Hayden, who was critical in the comeback attempt. Eric Slone notched eight points. “That’s a positive thing, we had guys who were scoring a little more,” Culicerto noted. On Tuesday, the boys gave up momentum they had going with a tough 57-51 loss to Hidden Valley, despite 36 points from senior Jake Mankin. “We broke down defensively, they got too many layups,” Culicerto said. “And give them credit, they finished and made their shots. It just wasn’t our best defensive effort. We played hard, but we didn’t play too smart at times.” Hayden’s five points was the only other significant scoring total from Byrd, who shot just 35 percent from the field and 52.6 percent (10-19) from the foul line.
Photo by Dan Vance
Derrick Palmer soars to the rim in Saturday’s loss at Northside. Hidden Valley hit 74 percent (2127) from the charity stripe. “You have to play consistently hard and they are. The next step is to play consistently hard and execute,” Culicerto said. “We are getting better, just continue to do
what we do just a little bit better everyday.” Byrd returns to action Saturday at Lord Botetourt, and the previously postponed Christiansburg game has been rescheduled for Jan. 30 at 6pm.
Botetourt gets the best of Terriers in rematch
>20-point loss follows previous OT win over Cavs; Titans outpace girls on Saturday Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief Last Wednesday night, Byrd started fast and finished strong, but in between, it was all Cavaliers as Lord Botetourt avenged a recent loss to the Terriers, winning 64-44. The Lady Terriers were outscored 16-6 in the second quarter and 23-10 in the third. “Defensively it was our worst performance of the year by far,” said Byrd coach Fran Recchia. “Little fundamental things that they have been doing for years went right out the window. When four of your five starters are in negative figures defensively, you’re not going to win very many games.” The inside duo of Samantha Webster and Jessica Rhodes provided the most hope for Byrd. Webster notched a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Rhodes added eight and five. Brittany Mattox also scored in double figures with 10, Emily Hanna added four assists and Jodi Overstreet had seven points. “We watched the second and third quarters because those are what really hurt us, and just looked to see what we could do better,” Recchia noted. “They all came out of that game like a dear caught in headlights...they had no idea
what happened. We just looked at it as, there is your one game – you didn’t play very well, put it behind you and let’s move on.” On Saturday, they fell again – this time to Hidden Valley – 57-40. “We don’t score enough to give up more than 45-5o points in a game,” Recchia said. “If this team doesn’t play defense, this team isn’t going to win games.” Hidden Valley had three players in double figure scoring to Byrd’s one – Webster scored 12 points and pulled down 10 rebounds. Mattox and Hanna added nine and eight points respectively. They each had four assists. Kam Hagins notched five rebounds, but the Titans won the rebounding war, 26-23. One of Byrd’s post players, Rhodes, put up just four points and three rebounds. “Our posts have to show up, our posts have to be a presence. That is one of our biggest strengths is out inside play,” Recchia said. “Where we’re missing wide open layups, it’s a whole different ballgame after that.” One of Byrd’s main backups, Ashley Smith, missed both games with a broken finger, but Recchia says that Smith, who she believes adds many intangibles to the game, will be back within two weeks. The Lady Terriers return to action Saturday night at home against Christiansburg.
Photo by Danny Cruff
Samantha Webster and a pair of Hidden Valley players await a rebound.
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Photos by Dan Vance
‘A two-game week proved to be a tough one for the Terrier boys basketball team, where loses to Hidden Valley and Northside dropped them to 4-8 on the year. Coach Dave Culicerto rallied the troops (1) last Tuesday night, but the Titan negated a 36 point effort by Jake Mankin in the win. On Saturday, Mankin again led the charge, but with just 17 points (2) in a tough Blue Ridge District loss visiting the Vikings. Byrd led early, but a slow second quarter opened the door for Northside to pull away at start 2-0 in District. Inside help from freshman Timothy Buchikos (3) helped the JV team to a win in Tuesday’s meeting with the Titans, but Scott Spradlin (4) and company could not overcome the Vikings on Saturday in the precursor to the varsity showdown.
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(8) Photos by Dan Vance (swim) and Danny Cruff (girls basketball)
The swim team celebrated Senior Night on Wednesday as they successfully hosted Staunton River at Gator Aquatic Center. Taylor Corso, Katie Frazier (5), Ariel Lackey, Brittany Lane and Chelsea Woolfolk were all honored. Saturday night marked the return to the court for the girls basketball team after a large loss earlier in the week at Lord Botetourt. Hopes were high, as were the leaps during pregame warmups for Kam Hagins (6), and player introductions for Jessica Rhodes and Jodi Overstreet (7), but Hidden Valley outscored Byrd in every quarter for the win. The girls JV team struggled offensively despite Latishya Barnhill (8) and others showing agression on the defensive end. The JV also fell at Hidden Valley.
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Photos by Dan Vance (wrestling) and Danny Cruff (rec.league)
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On Wednesday night, WBHS hosted their first wrestling meet of the year. Jonathan Altice (1) and the JV team started the meet strong, but Staunton River reveresed their fortunes to win the varsity meet, including a clutch win over Byrd’s AJ Kingery (2) late at 160 pounds. The weekend brought plenty of Rec. League basketball to WBMS. Sunday’s slate saw games between Vinton teams the Heat and Cavaliers (3)&(4), the Hokies and the Thunder (5)&(6) and Tar Heels squaring off against the Mt. Pleasant Celtics (7)&(8). Best of all, the youngsters had referee Jason Boothe (9) guiding them through some extra instruction along the way.
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Swim team wins first BRD meet over District newcomers >Teams follow up victory over Staunton River with several strong performances at deep meet on Saturday morning where girls place fifth overall Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief On Saturday, the swim team took part in the High School Invitational at Gator Aquatic Center and really got to see where they fit in against other teams in the Valley according to coach Krista Martin. “Overall, it was a really great day,’ Martin said. “I love the fact that there is a trial and finals meet the kids can participate in. It’s exciting to try and make it back top 16. Plus they get a chance to see really fast swimming at night and get in there and race.” The team did have six swimmers make it back top 16 and the girls team finished fifth overall out of 13 teams. High placers for Byrd on Saturday included seventh in the 200 Medley Relay by Caitlin Gerig, Brittany Lane, Chelsea Woolfolk and Kacy Edsall, a tenth place for Chelsea Woolfolk in the 200 IM and eleventh in the 100 Fly, a twelfth in the 100 Fly and tenth in the 100 Back for Courtney Heck and fifth place finish in the 200 Free Relay for the team of Gerig, Woolfolk, Heck and Edsall. For the boys, Luke Gerig led the way with a sixteenth place finish in the 100 Breast. We had some best times and some big drops. I love seeing the swimmers get so excited about a best time, it’s great when their hard work pays off,” Martin said. On Wednesday, both the boys and girls competed against Staunton River. While the boys team fell 46-111, the girls dominated Staunton River 121-40 to take an overall win for Byrd at 167-151. The victory makes the Terriers 1-1 in Blue Ridge District swim. It was exciting to win another district meet,” Martin said. “We were really able to get up and race. It was a nice dress rehearsal for the invitational this weekend.” First place finishes against Staunton River included the Girls 200 Medley Relay (Gerig, Rose, Woolfolk, Edsall), the Girls 200 Free (Ariel Lackey), the Girls 200 IM and 100 Fly (Woolfolk), the Girls 50 Free and
Photos by Dan Vance (top) and Danny Cruff (above)
TOP: Sarah Vipperman competes during last Wednesday’s BRD meet with Staunton River. Vipperman was part of the winning 400 Free Relay on Tuesday. ABOVE: Chelsea Woolfolk compete in Saturday’s mulit-school meet at Gator Aquatic Center. 100 Free (Edsall), the Girls 500 Free (Brittany Lane), the Girls 200 Free Relay (Gerig, Woolfolk, Heck, Edsall), the Girls 100 Back (Gerig), the Boys 100 Breast (Luke Gerig) and the Girls 400 Free Relay (Heck, Katie Frazier, Sarah Vipperman, Rose). Tuesday was also Senior Night at Gator for William Byrd. Senior swimmers Taylor Corso, Kaitie Frazier, Ariel Lackey, Brittany Lane and Chelsea Woolfolk were honored. The swim teams will take the week off for exams, but will be back in action on January 25 against Hidden Valley.
Indoor Track sees progress at Liberty in Bulldog Invitational The William Byrd indoor track once again made the long, cold bus drive to Liberty this past Saturday morning, this time for the Bulldog Invitational. Coach Eric Royal wasn’t sure what the expectations were after coming off of a long Holiday break and being unable to get much time on any track with the downpour of inclement weather experienced during the time off. However, Royal reports the team performed
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pretty well, considering the factors. Royal said the highlight of the meet was Justin Smith breaking his on High Jump record of 5 feet 10 inches by jumping an even six feet, good for a 2nd place overall finish. “It has been a plateau he has been close to for awhile but just could not seem to put it all together until Saturday” Royal said. Brice Connor also set a new personal best in shot put with a throw of 36’ 10”, eclipsing his
prior best by nearly two feet. Long distance men Nick Leffell and Kevin O’Connor came in fourth and ninth in the 1000 meters, “they continue to have outstanding seasons” says Royal. The boys 4x800 team finished 3rd overall. Royal admits the girls team is young and “taking their lumps this season” but is noticing improvements with every meet, especially with some of the freshmen.
Three-meet week sets stage for Districts >Wrestlers tangle twice with Alleghany among others, host Staunton River The Terrier wrestling team we are” Carpenter remarked. picked up a big district win against Byrd lost 47-27, “it wasn’t very Alleghany this past Tuesday, close” Carpenter remarked. Byrd defeating the Mountaineers 37-36. swept the lighter weights of 112, “We wrestled ok, but we won” 119 and 125, Garfield Harris, Zakk said Coach Reed Carpenter “We Moorman and Sheehan all coming had a couple of guys that should away with victories. Staunton have won, but River had to that lost.” forfeit two Carpenter weight classes. “We actually wrestled pointed to W i t h better than we did the no rest for a Derek Sheehan’s the weary, night before. Right scoring a major the Terriers now, they are just decision with were on the ten seconds left road again better than we are.” in the match Saturday, that ended making the up being the trip back eventual point for the win. to Alleghany to compete in the The very next night, the Alleghany Duals along with teams Terriers had their very first home like Greenbriar East out of West matches, taking on Staunton Virginia, Salem, Patrick Henry and River. Pulaski. “We actually wrestled better The Big Orange came away than we did the night before, but with the overall team win and had right now they’re just better than several wrestlers go undefeated on
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2010
Photo by Dan Vance
Zakk Moorman shoots to take down his Staunton River opponent in last Wednesday’s home opener against the BRD foe. the day including Sheehan, Dustin Woods and a surprise appearance by Michael Crosswhite, a freshman, who went 4-0 on the day, filling in at 119. The team has the majority of
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this week off until Saturday while the students are taking exams. Saturday they will be heading to Glenvar for the Glenvar quads, which includes Glenvar, Salem and Rockbridge.
•‘WEBSTER’ continued from page 20 the best choice, I liked the campus, I liked the team, I liked the coaches and I thought I could work well there and Coach thought I could too.” Webster admits she will miss playing volleyball and although the decision making process was a tough one when that was weighed in, basketball is her first love and she knows she’s making the right decision. With having a young coach who played Division I basketball, it was easy for Webster to lean on Recchia in her decision making process. “I talk to Coach Fran about everything” she says. Webster never hesitates to lean on her coach and says Recchia was very involved in her entire recruiting process from when the letters started coming in to the day she signed her letter and everything in between. Some of this bond was formed due to Recchia coaching Webster’s AAU team, this team specifically for some of the elite players in the area. Webster cherishes her time with her AAU team and especially the friendships she’s made. “I’ve got a friend on almost every team we play.” Webster wants to leave her mark on William Byrd athletics, specifically with this year’s Lady Terrier team. “Girls basketball for the past couple years hasn’t done that much, we haven’t won a district title since 1998 and that’s a long time” she says. “We want to honor the girls that played before us.” She pointed to the 1997 state championship team, led by Brandy Allen and Andrea Gay, as how she’s like to end her career. “We might not be the best offensive team, but you can bet you’re not going to score” she says with an glare in her eye. How’s that for channeling intensity?
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Sammi Webster:
Two-sport star is an intense leader on the floor
William Byrd High School two-sport standout Sammi Webster is on her way to Concord next fall to continue her career on the basketball court, but there is a whole lot left on the senior Lady Terrier’s plate prior to becoming a Lady Lion. Currently averaging roughly a double-double per game this year on the hardwood after being an all-region player on the Volleyball court, Webster knows that she’s ready to take her game to the next level. “I started playing basketball when I was around three” Webster says “we had a basketball goal and my dad would put me on his shoulders.” Then she moved from the driveway to a real court at the age of five, playing in the rec league system in kindergarten against boys her age. It didn’t take long for her to realize that the sport with the hoop was the one for her. “I wanted to play in college and the WNBA, I decided that in third grade,” she says with a laugh. She is aware that during the last couple of years with the Terriers, she’s been looked at as a leader in both sports, “it felt really good to know that they [her teammates] believed in me and they all know I believe in them too, because without them I can’t do anything” says the Lady Terriers’ leading scorer. Her intensity on the court is unmatched, which is evidenced by “I hate to lose, I’ve always watching her play. “I hate to lose, I’ve been like that since I was always been like that since little...I can’t stand when I was little” she says “I can’t stand when someone tells someone tells me I can’t do me I can’t do something something because then I because then I just think ‘I’ll show you.’” just think ‘I’ll show you.’” While she admits it used to be “really bad” she has made strides in focusing more on the positives of intensity she does give credit to her coaches for helping her hone that intensity into something that makes her the fierce competitor she is. “I’m staying intense while being calm at the same time, because if I freak out, then the whole team will freak out,” she says. The balancing act between sports seems to be a bit of a breeze for Webster as she quickly moved from one season to the other. When the Terrier volleyball team made their exit in the regional tournament, it was no time at all before she traded in her spandex for her sneakers and was back to making baskets. “I’m always so excited about basketball season, but I definitely didn’t want Volleyball to end.” Webster’s last volleyball game in the maroon and orange on November 10 of this past year was likely her last competitive volleyball game of her career. When it came time to make the decision on where to attend college and what to do there, the choice came down to Concord, in Athens, West Virginia and a college career that will include only basketball. “I had a visit the weekend before I decided and I sat down with Coach [Fran Recchia] and we sat down and looked at the pros and cons of each school I visited,” says the senior. “When it came down to it Concord was
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Photo by Dan Vance
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