Vinton Voice (Volume I, Issue 1)

GENE MARRANO’S NOTEBOOK pg.21 • WALLACE CUNDIFF’S LEGACY pg.15

VINTON’S NEW VOICE

Bootie’s Place pg.2

Fall Sports Preview with a profile of Jeff Highfill

pgs.22/23

THE TERRIER FIELD TUG-OF-WAR pgs.12/13

Volume I • Issue 1

VOICE August 26, 2009

116 S.Poplar St. - Suite 1 Vinton, VA 24179 540.904.5836 - Office 540.904.5838 - Fax

EDITORIAL HELLO! HELLO! Welcome to Bootie’s Place!!

I said I wasn’t going anywhere, just changing places. Thanks to Chris Manning for this opportunity to continue “gossiping” about Vinton and it’s great people here. Which means I need your help on telling everyone and getting them to subscribe to The Vinton’s Voice.

It’s only fitting for the first column to go back in time and I mean way back “CHILDHOOD”!

Growing up on Jefferson Hill-Roland E.Cook territory and of course the Bells and Iddings were on “Tank Hill”. However we spent a lot of time on Jefferson Hill where we made friends for life.

Helen Sell Hicks thought it would be fun to get together, while Nancy Harris Hawley (Ohio) was in town. We gathered at Jersey Lily’s for Lunch on Friday. The fun began with telling old stories about growing up in a small town. Some were whoppers and oh so funny NOW. Those attending were Helen Sell Hicks, June Sell Dudley, Jim “Jimbo” Sell, Bobby Sell, Peggy Sell Altice (5 out of the 10 Sells),Bobby Altice (Peggy’s hubby), Sue Rider Arnold, Nancy Harris Hawley , Elizabeth Harris Nester (mom of George Nester ,former town manager ), Benny Harris & wife Vivian, Sylvia Siner Plunkett, Naomi Fitzpatrick Snead, June McGee Eanes ( her dad Ross McGee was Mayor at the time), Jimmy Bell , Abbie and Angie Lewis and yours truly. I thought it was a great turn out for the spur of the moment invite. Need to do it again maybe more would like to come and share stories. I think it is great remembering since it has been at least 65 years ago.

Happy birthday wishes go out to Jim Rice ( Mon.17th,) Taryn Rice (Sat 22nd), Micheal Fink turned 18. Ashley Fink Bootie Bell Chewning turned 20 , Bobby McLeod (Fri. 21) Gloria Jennings (Mon. 24) Barry Guilliams,Patti Esperti , Carolyn Fidler BOO_TEE@msn.com (29th) Michele Yeatts ( she was in town for hers) Mary Beth Monroe and Doug Patterson’s Big B -day party at Friendship Manor celebrating his 62nd, many of you remember Doug from Mill Mountain Theatre and the wonderful roles he played there. Hope You all had a wonderful Birthday and many more.

Skylar Grace Williams celebrated her first birthday on Saturday, August 15, 2009. Her real birthday is August 12 but had to wait for some special guests to get to Roanoke.

Skylar, the daughter of Sherry Williams and Susie Garrett, was honored with a Luau featuring Hawaiian Dress, original Hawaiian Pulled Pork and a ton of great food. Of course, Skylar’s favorite was her birthday cake. Attending were her Grandparents, Don and Carolyn Williams (GrandDD and CC), Bill and Brownie McAllister (Paw Paw and Granny) and Great-grandparents, Curtis and Flossie Hodges (Grandma and Granddaddy).

Her aunts, Kim Horn and Geri Dino came from Morgantown, West Virginia and her aunt, Candie McAllister came from Wytheville.

Also attending were great aunts, great uncles and many close friends.

Skylar’s entire family feels blessed that she has come into our lives. She has already won the hearts of many Vintonites since she did her first Vinton Relay for Life in April at 8 months old and the Vinton Relay for Life Celebration Skylar Grace Williams at 11 months old. One of our youngest relayers. We love you “Sky”. Happy Birthday.

•See ‘BOOTIE’ - Page 11

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Chris Manning Publisher chris@vintonvoice.com Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief dan@vintonvoice.com Brian Manning Circulation Director brian@vintonvoice.com

COLUMNISTS Bootie Bell Chewning General Info BOO_TEE@msn.com Dale Russell Financial wheresmymoney@vintonvoice.com

CONTRIBUTORS Gene Marrano Senior Contributor gmarrano@cox.net John Montgomery Special Contributor jmonty@cox.net Ashlee Manning Special Contributor contribuor-info@vintonvoice.com Brian Bartley Contributor bbartley@vintonvoice.com Aaron Layman Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Chris Monroe Contributor chris@vintonbaptistchurch.org Jenna Forbes Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Danae Wensley Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Tyler Boothe Student Contributor tboothe22@yahoo.com Pat Richards Cover Photo Contributor Air Shots Aerial Photography Copyright @ 2009, All rights reserved by The Vinton Voice email: info@vintonvoice.com http://vintonvoice.com vintonvoice.blogspot.com For advertising rates and information, please call 540-904-5836

VOICE 03

OUR voice is YOUR voice Welcome to the Vinton Voice. This is a new publication that, simply put, is for the citizens and businesses of the Vinton area. This will not be what you’ve been used to seeing, this paper will, as the name states, give Vinton a true Voice. We are an independently owned and operated company that only focuses on one area, the Vinton area.

Of course, we will be reporting the news in and around Vinton, but we will be doing so much more. In this first issue, you’ll see some of the new and exciting sections we have planned, including “Bootie’s Place” with Bootie Bell Chewning, “Gene’s Notebook” with Gene Marrano and the first “Sports Spotlight” on William Byrd football and soccer coach Jeff Highfill, brought to us by John Montgomery of Play by Play, the area’s most respected sports magazine. Aaron Layman has also taken on the task of putting Wallace Cundiff’s legacy into words. What we’ll hope you’ll notice the most, however, is our love for our great community.

Along with this “Publisher’s Corner” every week, you will see a highlighting of a local business every week (and rest assured, these businesses have not paid to have their business highlighted).

You will hear from representatives of William Byrd both high and middle schools, as well as the elementary schools in our area. Our children are our future and they will be the ones to shape Vinton’s future, they need to be represented.

We all have our church of choice, but each week in the Voice, we will hear from a different local preacher in one of Vinton’s many churches giving their “Focus on Faith.”

For those interested in the commerce of the town (and what you can do to help improve it) the Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce will update you each week with their “Chamber Happenings.” Take a look back in time with “Vinton Retrospective” brought to us every week by the Vinton Museum and Historical society.

We’re not trying to be the cookie cutter, run of the mill newspaper. The Voice looks different and we will act differently as well. As our friend Bootie has said, “change is sometimes good.”

We hope you’ll feel the same.

About the logistics of the paper itself. As many of you have seen, we have a home here in Vinton on 116 S. Poplar St., Suite 1 and we look forward to seeing you come on down. Someone will be there during normal business hours and you can certainly come on by to see us, share a story, give a suggestion or just stop by for a chat.

The Voice will be coming out every Wednesday and there are three ways you can get your Voice. The first is to stop at any of our locations that carry us, pretty much everywhere in town, worst case scenario, just stop by the office…we’ll have one for you.

Secondly, we will be sending out free promotional copies directly to Vinton households.

If you don’t get it one week, you probably will the next. A month won’t go by where

nearly every household in Vinton has gotten a promotional copy.

Third, if you don’t want to leave the comfort of your home to go find a copy, you can always subscribe. The convenience of having your copy of the Voice mailed to you every week only costs you $25 per year or $40 for two. Any of those three ways work for us, but if you’d like the convenience of option three, just fill out the form on page three, clip it out and drop it in the mail. Then, you won’t have to worry about it.

Finally, I’d like to offer all of you a job.

That’s right, a job. The best news in Vinton doesn’t always make it to the newspaper, you hear about it from the breakfast crew at McDonald’s, you hear whispers of it at the football or basketball game, maybe your kids come home with it from school, sometimes you see it happen yourself and look around for a reporter wondering if this is “real news.” Well, now that Vinton has its Voice you get to be that reporter. We want your stories, we want your pictures.

We want to know who got married, who graduated from college, who had a special honor, or even who hit the homerun in the big game down at Vinyard.

We can’t be everywhere…but you can.

When you send us those pictures with a description of what’s taking place to news@vintonVoice.com, you’ll have that moment recognized both at www.VintonVoice.com and in the print edition and be given credit for sending that in. You’ll be a hero, the talk of the town. Sounds like a pretty good gig, right? Yeah, we thought so.

Bottom line folks, this is your paper, for you. We want this paper to represent Vinton and the citizens and businesses of Vinton. As hard as we may try, we can’t do that without your help. We need your submissions, your feedback, your ideas, simply put; we need to know what you want to see. Vinton has been asking for a long time for its own “Voice,” now you have it…let your voice be heard.

Sincerely, Chris Manning Publisher

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INTON OICE

04 VOICE

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Photo by Chris Manning The ADS family outside of their office.

Putting a family touch on security and safety Story by Chris Manning Safety and Family are words that go hand in hand for folks. You want your family to be safe and you want to make sure you can provide safety for them. Safety and Family go hand in hand for locally owned and operated Alarm Detection Services as well. The Boothe family has been in the security business for decades and their work at ADS just continues to evolve, but one thing that hasn’t changed is their dedication to safety and family.

Todd Boothe is the president of ADS and is surrounded by family everywhere he looks, whether through his father Ed, who is semiretired now, but still goes out on the occasional sales call, his mother Betty, his brothers Jason and Tim, his wife Cristy, his brother in law Shannon Gray or his “work family” at ADS, they’re all on the same page with the same goal and that is to keep other people’s families safe through one of the many products they offer at ADS. At one point, the Boothe family business had as many as five offices operation simultaneously from Tennessee to Virginia, until the family decided to settle completely for their office at 214 W. Lee in Vinton While ADS has found success in the commercial ventures, they’ve installed security cameras in Roanoke County Schools, City of Salem Schools and Amherst County Schools, to name a few, it’s the residential market that still is the main focus of the security company.

“During this economy, folks are interested in protecting what they own and protecting their loved ones. We are able to give them piece of mind” says Todd. “Ten years ago, 11% of homes had some type of alarm system, now it is

15%. That’s 85% of people that don’t have their homes protected.”

With products powered by GE Security and ranging from Home Alarm Systems, Fire Detectors and Cameras, to Life Safety systems for the elderly. The home security industry, including ADS are also on the cutting edge of technology including many new services that utilize motion detection cameras and systems that can used and utilized through a cell phone, a system Todd himself uses as he and his wife Cristy have one son in high school (Tyler) and one in middle school (Dustin) and they practice what they preach, making sure their family is

safe.

Many security packages are available for as little as a dollar a day and with no installation charge. “We will never sell anything to anyone they can’t afford” Boothe says, knowing the value of happy customers “the majority of our business comes from word of mouth from customers who are satisfied and appreciate that they can protect so much for so little.”

Whether you see the Boothe’s at one of the many community events you may find them at, or you stop by the office, see what Todd has to say, because he wants to protect your family the same way he protects his.

VOICE 05

Introducing Brian Bartley What attracted you to the Vinton Voice?

I am a student majoring in communications, which at Tech, gives you the option of going into either PR, or Journalism. I went into to journalism and discovered it was something I was passionate about. More specifically, I was able to transition my passion for sports into a passion for writing about sports. I guess it goes back to the point, “If you’re not good enough to play at a higher level, you still have to find a way to be around it.” The Vinton Voice was not only another opportunity to run with that passion, but also gave me a chance to take my passion for writing and interweave it into my hometown community. Some of my greatest childhood memories came playing sports in Vinton (both for William Byrd, AAU, and even Rec League). It’s something I’m very excited to get involved in.

You are scheduled to graduate from Virginia Tech this coming year, what are your plans for after college?

My options are pretty open. I do love the area, and if my best opportunity comes locally, then I’d be thrilled to stay. If my best opportunity requires me to go somewhere else, then I’ll have to consider those options as well. The one thing I know is that I will always stay involved in sports.

How does it feel to be writing for the newspaper that covers your hometown?

06 VOICE

It’s pretty cool. When I write for planetblacksburg.com, I’m typically writing for an audience who has never heard of me. Virginia Tech athletics are very widely publicized events, so our website is not where people go for the big articles. We write for our internet readers and always try to gain more, but at the end of the day, we are a small website writing about big events...it’s a tough atmosphere. When I write in my hometown, I will be writing about things in which our content is often the primary source for the events we cover. In addition, though everyone may not know who I am, a lot of our audience will at least be familiar with me. I guess thats both a scary and exciting proposition haha. With all of that said, I’m really thrilled and excited about being able to write for my hometown. Its a great opportunity I believe.

What are your expectations, what kind of reaction do you expect from your friends and family and the Vinton community?

I really just want people to be honest with me. If they like my stuff, then thats great...but if they don’t like my stuff, I want to hear that also. I know all of my friends and family will be supportive of the paper as a •See ‘VOICE’ - Page 19

Obituaries

•Continued on Page 08

THOMAS, TODD LYNN, 36 of Vinton passed away Thursday August 20, 2009. Todd was employed by the Norfolk-Southern Railroad. He was predeceased by his father, Emett J. Thomas, Jr., his Paternal grandfather; Emett J. Thomas, Sr. Maternal grandparents; McKinley & Bruce Stevens.

Survivors include his wife; Karen Robertson Thomas. Children; Caitlin Faith, Jared Lynn, Wyatt Morgan and Lillie Grace Thomas all at home.

Mother & step-father Kyma & Gary Holdren of Vinton. One brother; Tyler Smith Holdren of Vinton and step-brother; Greg Holdren of Montvale.

Mother-in-law; Patty Robertson. Also many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

A service celebrating Todd’s life was held 12:00 noon Monday August 24, 2009 from the Lotz Vinton Chapel with the Rev. Glenn Stevens officiating.

Burial followed in Mountain View Cemetary. The family received friends Sunday at the funeral home. Lotz Funeral Home, Vinton Chapel was in charge of the arrangements. On line condolences can be sent to www.lotzfuneral home.com

Get Well Get well wishes to Travis Bowles at Radford University, who is very sick from mold in his dorm room.

Crash at Vet

JEFFREY GENE BOOTHE, 53, of Moneta went to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 12, 2009. He was born July 2, 1956 the son of the late Fred Carl Boothe and Louise Brown Boothe. Surviving are his wife, Linda Boothe of Moneta; son, Joshua Gene Boothe of Moneta; step-son, Kevin Chocklett of Bedford; grandson, Jacob Underwood; brother, Fred Boothe of Alpharetta, Georgia. Memorial services were conducted 1:00pm Saturday, August 22, 2009 at Lotz Vinton Chapel. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Autism Speaks, Alec’s A Team, C/O Linda Boothe, 1313 Unity Lane, Moneta, VA 24121. Arrangements by Lotz Funeral Home, Vinton Chapel.

STEVENS, ROGER LEE, SR., 63, of Vinton passed away Monday, August 17, 2009. Roger was born June 12, 1946 to the late J. Sherard Stevens & Emma Elizabeth St. Clair Stevens. He was a Carman for the Norfolk & Western Railroad, owner of the Stevens Family Restaurant in Vinton for several years and did enjoy being an Auctioneer as well. Survivors include his wife, Judy S. Stevens; two sons, Roger (Bo) Lee Stevens, Jr. and wife Dana, Jeff Stevens & wife Kimberly; two daughters, Angela McGuire & husband Jonathan and Lindy Yates & husband Bobby; Grandchildren, Lisa Neel, Matthew Neel, William Yates, Elizabeth Stevens; one brother, Benny L. Stevens and wife Robin. Two sisters, Vickie Cheryl Bowyer & husband Terry & Judy Gayle Ellis & husband Danny. Also survived are several nieces and nephews and a special pet Tiki. A service celebrating Roger’s life was conducted 2:00 pm Friday August 21, 2009 at the Lynn Haven Baptist church with the Rev. Tim Stevens, Rev. Glenn Stevens & Rev. Tim Moran officiating. Burial followed in the Stevens Family Cemetary in Moneta. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Terrance May and the Nursing Staff at Carilion Roanoke Memorial 12th floor CCU. Online condolences may be made to www.lotzfuneralhome.com.

DANA ALEXIS CHEWNING, of Vinton, Va., our beautiful and amazingly talented daughter, sister, and friend, left us on Tuesday, August 18, 2009, and went to be with her Father in Heaven. She grew up in Vinton, Va., and graduated with honors from William Byrd High School. She was an honor student at James Madison University where she majored in psychology and minored in dance. Her lifelong love for dance was only equaled by her love for her boyfriend, Richard Carper. She always treasured time with her very special friends, Fallon, Kayla, and Jacklyn.

She is survived by her mother and father, Donna and Billy Chewning Jr.; her brother, Dustin; her sister and brotherin-law, Amber and Ben Gilliam; grandparents, Jean and Bill Chewning Sr., and Gerald and Doris Clark; aunts and uncles, Brenda Hale, Ricky and Kim Clark, Stevie Clark, Randy Clark, and Karen and Tommy Wood; many cousins; and special family friend, Nancy Langley. Family and friends were received on Thursday, August 20, 2009, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 540-9822221. Funeral services were held 11 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2009, at the Church of The Holy Spirit, 6011 Merriman Road, Roanoke, Va. with a graveside service at Mountain View Cemetery in Vinton. A reception followed after the burial at the Church of The Holy Spirit. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Angel Flights at Angelflightmidatlantic.org or to the Church of the Holy Spiri in memory of Dana.

Photo by Chris Manning A single vehicle crashed into the Vinton Veterinary Hospital last week. No one inside was injured, but the driver, Vickie Dooley, did sustain minor injuries and was charged with failure to maintain control of her vehicle.

Want to advertise a yard sale?

Car for Sale? Help wanted?

Help needed?

Utilize our Community “Voice Box,” our bulletin board for local individual advertisements.

For 20 dollars you’ll get enough space to tell folks what you’re looking for (size of a business card.)

Stop by the office to place your ad or email to info@vintonvoice.com

VOICE 07

Obituaries

•Continued from Page 07

WILLAIM D. “BILL” CLINEBELL, 67, of Vinton passed into the arms of the Lord Friday, August 21, 2009.

Bill was a master plumber for 35 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thurman J. Clinebell and Grace Erma Clinebell; and a sister, Rose Clinebell Hodges.

Bill is survived by his wife, Virginia H. “Jenny” Clinebell; one brother, T. Wayne Clinebell; one sister, Debra Lynn Flora and her husband Everette; one brother-in-law, Gary Summers and his wife Becky; one sisterin-law, Terry Carr and her husband Woody; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved pet, Josie.

A graveside funeral service will be conducted 11:00 a.m.

Monday, August 24, 2009 in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Edward P. Creel officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vinton Fire and Rescue.

The family received friends Sunday, August 23, 2009 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel (981-2221) JOYCE TRENT HARPER, 68, of Roanoke, born October 3, 1940, went to be with the Lord, Saturday, August 22, 2009.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Dora M. “Peg” Trent.

She is survived by her father, Claude W. Trent; her loving husband of 52 years, Ronnie L. Harper; her two sons and their wives, Kenneth L. and Melissa Harper and Timothy L. and Pat Harper; her daughter and husband, Cindy and Jeff Bower; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and her brother and his wife, Danny and Helen Trent. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and sisters and brothers-inlaw. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her memory to East End Baptist Church, 1030 Mecca Street, Roanoke, VA 24012 where she was a faithful member since childhood.

Funeral services were conducted at 12:00 noon at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel on Tuesday August 25, 2009 with Rev. Troy Mueller officiating. The family received friends on Monday August 24, 2009 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel (981-2221) MARY PUGH CUNDIFF, 71, of Roanoke went to be with her Lord on Sunday afternoon, August 23, 2009. Mary was a faithful member of Family Bible Fellowship, was a former coowner of J & M Snack Shop on Ninth Street and was retired from Service America.

She was born in Franklin County, a daughter of the late John Thomas and Mary Draper Pugh and was preceded in death by her brothers, John Marvin, Robert, Raymond, and Russell Pugh; her sisters, Virginia Craghead, Pearl Clingenpeel and Maude Beckner and her husband, James M. Cundiff.

She is survived by her brothers, James and Linda M. Pugh of Bloomington, IN, Larry and Linda J. Pugh of West End, NC; her sisters, Winnie Belle Jamison of Roanoke, Elsie Webb of Roanoke; her sisters-in-law, Starrine Pugh of Boones Mill, Joyce Pugh of Roanoke; her brother-in-law, Buford Beckner of Boones Mill; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service was held at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 with Pastor Barry Witt officiating. Interment followed in Bethlehem Church of the Brethren Cemetery, Boones Mill.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorials to Family Bible Fellowship.

The family received friends Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 982-2221.

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Engagement Fowler-Lovelace

Rev. Christopher D. and Tammy Fowler of Vinton, Virginia are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Katharine Elizabeth Fowler of Shelby, North Carolina to Joshua Wayne Lovelace of Cherryville, North Carolina, son of Larry and Rita Lovelace of Cherryville.

Katie is the granddaughter of Richard and Doris Maxey and Gary and Becky Fowler of Vinton, Virginia.

She is a 2004 graduate of Lee-Davis High School and a 2007 graduate of Gardner-Webb University.

She is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling at Gardner-Webb University. She is employed by Gardner-Webb University as Alumni Communications Coordinator as well as Marketplace Chaplains USAS as a Chaplain.

Josh is the grandson of Ruby Willis and the late Bobby Willis, Sr. and Charles and Joan Lovelace of Cherryville, North Carolina. He is a 2003 graduate of Burns High School and a 2007 graduate of Gardner-Webb University. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies and a Master of Arts degree in Religion from Gardner-Webb University. He is employed by the Abuse Prevention Council of Shelby as a Night Manager at the Beacon Men’s Shelter.

The wedding is planned for December 18, 2009 at Vinton Baptist Church in Vinton, Va.

Story by Chris Monroe As busy summer activities wind down and local schools prepare to begin a new academic year, many churches in the community are readying themselves for what they refer to as their “Fall Kick-Off’s.” This is when they introduce new offerings and restart some of their vacationed programs that have been shelved during the warmer weather. At Vinton Baptist Church the fall is always an exciting time. This year is no exception. The church is offering a plethora of opportunities for spiritual, personal, and even financial growth for her members and the community.

Mrs. Denise Salvi joined the staff of Vinton Baptist Church last spring as their children’s minister. She has only been on the job a few short months but has already been working to launch some new offerings this fall that might help train and disciple some of Vinton’s youngest resources. Salvi hopes to continue the church’s strong Sunday school, choir and mission education programs. Her focus, this fall, will also encompass children’s worship education. She hopes to work with church volunteers to organize and host a weekly worship service just for children ages 4 to 8 years old. She also plans to host a hot topics forum for parents and a class for children asking questions about faith entitled: “What it Means to Follow Jesus.”

The Youth Ministry of Vinton Baptist is always active. They will launch this year’s ever popular 5th Quarter ministry beginning this Friday night August 28. Terry Goodnight is the youth minister for the church and relates that their purpose for 5th Quarter is: “to be a safe place for highs school students to come after football games for wholesome fun, fellowship and entertainment.” There will be a number of activities available for the students including open gym, game room, Coffee House, movie room, free pizza and drinks, and their own version of karaoke.

There is no entrance fee. However, students are asked to register and sign in and out at the door for safety reasons. Goodnight is working on a “youth lock out-in” on October 9-10, and a retreat to Camp Roanoke on November 6-8.

Dr. Bill Booth the Pastor of the church is

offering a course entitled: “Financial Peace University” this fall, beginning September 13.

“Peace be with you” was Jesus’ ancient greeting to his followers. In these difficult days, one of the issues that causes greatest turmoil for our families is in the area of finance. If peace could be achieved in this realm of life, most people would be living life with greater joy.

This will be a 13 week course and require a materials investment from participants. The author of the text being employed is Dave Ramsey, a nationally syndicated, radio host specializing in financial matters. Booth also plans to launch weekly study on the book of Joshua in combination with several seminars on Wednesday evenings.

Dr. Bob Wayne is the Minister to Senior Adults at Vinton Baptist. He has been known around the Vinton community for several decades. He works with the church’s senior adult council to offer trips, events, and a monthly luncheon for senior adults. A special senior ladies exercise class will be offered this fall on Thursday’s at 2:00 PM. They will be going to the Christmas Show at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN in November.

Finally, the Music Ministry of the church strives to sponsor quality music for worship and events for the community.

Music experiences are offered for all ages.

The children’s choirs meet each Wednesday evening 6:15-7:15. The church is very proud of their 50 member youth choir. This group recently returned from a tour including stops in Pittsburgh, PA, Buffalo, NY, Toronto and Niagara Falls Canada. The youth (Grades 612) sing each second Sunday and for various events throughout the year. There are two adult vocal groups. The Praise Team leads music weekly at the 9:00 AM contemporary service; while, the Chancel Choir sings weekly at the 11:00 AM traditional service.

The choir had such a tremendous response to their Christmas Musical, 1940’s style “Big Band” musical, in 2008 that they will revisit the 1940’s styles again this coming season.

Church offers hand bell choirs for adults and children and various opportunities for instrumentals. Special concert offerings this fall will feature “Spiritual Steel” a steel drum group under the direction of Richard Rudolph on September 13 at 6:00 PM. The Vinton Historical Society Talent Show will be October 25 at 6:00 PM. Parties interested in any of the activities or ministries of the Vinton Church should call the church office for details

Thank you Vinton for all of your support in allowing us to share OUR voice with you and you for sharing YOUR voice with us in our debut issue!

Look for our second issue, all over Vinton on September 2nd

Readers, follow us

on FACEBOOK go to facebook.com and search The Vinton Voice. Then follow along for breaking news and previews

VOICE 09

Byrd golf off to STRONG start Story by Tyler Boothe The William Byrd golf team is off to a good start as district play opens up. The Terriers got an early lead last Tuesday when they traveled to Alleghany for the first district match. Senior Ben Firebaugh led the Terriers with a 69 followed by sophomore Brandon Bailey with a 72. The top four was wrapped up with a pair of 74’s by seniors Jake Mankin and Jacob MacMillan. That gave the Terriers a total score of 289 and put them 15 strokes up on district rival Lord Botetourt.

The match was played at a very “rough” Alleghany Country Club. The course seemed very out of shape with thick fairways, dirt spots on the greens, grown up bunkers and tricky out of bounds placements. Obviously this did not hurt the Terriers as they finished strong in the first district match.

After a great start the Terriers seemed very confident going into the second match at Mariners Landing. The match was put on hold soon after starting due to lightening. After about a 30 minute break the players headed back out to the course and picked up where they left off. The clouds stayed dark most of the round, but the weather held off to allow the match to be completed. Once again Firebaugh led the Terriers shooting a four over par giving him a 75. Brandon Bailey finished four strokes behind Firebaugh with a 79. Seniors Mankin and MacMillan once again finished up the top four for Byrd both shooting 84. Byrd dropped their 15 stroke lead to Botetourt who shot a team total of 301 on the day, putting them 3 strokes behind for the district lead.

The Terriers will now try to gain their lead back when they play the 3rd district

match at Country Side Tue. Aug 25th. These scores were not available at the time of publication.

Remember golf may seem like it is not a spectator sport, but you can always come out and support the Terrier Golf team. You can find our schedule on the WBHS website.

-Tyler Boothe is a sophomore and a member of the WBHS golf team

RECIPE of the WEEK

Submitted by Ashlee Manning

Fresh Blueberry Cream Pie From Dr. Richard Turner Welcome to the first edition of Terrier Talk! The Vinton Voice has graciously allowed William Byrd High School the opportunity to report on school activities. Our school dates back to 1929 and is very special to our community. This column will continue to add to our Terrier legacy.

Occasionally, I will be writing about events and activities and even opinion from a “principal’s” perspective in this column. Most weeks, our students in Mr. Chris Steuart’s newspaper class will contribute information about the happenings here at WBHS. Regardless, the readers of Terrier Talk will have the opportunity to learn about the greatest high school in Southwest Virginia first hand. We accept only the best at WBHS! Things are very exciting around school right now. The teachers have just come back to work getting everything ready for our students. The sports teams started practice at the beginning of August and the golf team has actually already begun competition. The football opening game is Friday, August 28 at Robert A. Patterson stadium against Rustburg. I hope to see everyone at the game!

The 2009-2010 school year will be a memorable year. Our construction project is the talk of the community and everyone associated with our school will have to adjust their regular routines to accommodate construction needs. Upon completion, our school will be able to handle 1400 students and we should be prepared for the next 40 years. Let the construction begin!

10 VOICE

1 C sour cream 3/4 C sugar 1 t. vanilla 1/2 t. cinnamon 9-inch unbaked pie shell 3 T butter, softened 3 T chopped pecans or walnuts (opt.)

2 T flour 1 egg, beaten 1/2 t. almond extract 2 1/2 C blueberries 3 T flour 1/4 t. salt

Combine sour cream, flour (2 T), sugar, egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat 5 minutes at medium speed. Pour into pastry shell.

Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes.

Combine remaining ingredients, stirring well. Sprinkle over top of pie. Bake an additional 10 minutes. Chill before serving.

Cool summer tip: Instead of boiling or grilling your corn on the cob, microwave it! Leave the corn in its husk and microwave about 2 1/2 minutes for every ear! Shuck after cooking! Delicious!

If you have a recipe or a tip you’d like to share, send them to RECIPES@vintonvoice.com

W.E. CUNDIFF ELEMENTARY •‘BOOTIE’ continued from page 02 Get well wishes and prayers go out to Patrick Darnell, Eva Graig, Nancy Thompson (now Home) Bea Johnson (Friendship Manor) Ina Bobbitt (Berkshire) God called a little angel home last Tuesday, Dana Chewning. Dana fought a long hard battle with cancer. For years she kept up a wonderful will to live. Encountering treatment after treatment. She graduated from WBHS with honors and was an honor student at JMU, majoring in psychology & minored in dance. She loved her dancing and was very good at it. Always full of life and pep. Loved her boyfriend Richard Carper. The daughter of Billy and Donna Chewning, sister of Dustin and Amber Gilliam and sister-in-law of Ben Gilliam. Grandaughter of Bill & Jean Chewning and Gerald”Skippy “ & Doris Clark . Aunts and uncles Brenda Hale, Ricky & Kim Clark , Randy Clark, Stevie Clark, Karen & Tommy Wood. Special family friend Nancy Langley. Her special friends Fallon, Kayla & Jacklyn.

Many Cousins on both the Chewning and Clark sides. It so hard to say goodbye to someone so precious . Knowing she is in God’s hands with no more pain and suffering helps some, but nothing can take the place here on earth as a child. Rest in Peace Dana. We love you! Our sympathy and prayers go out to all the family and friends.

The William Byrd Class of 1989 is busy preparing for their upcoming 20- year reunion. Please mark your calendars for Oct 16-17 for a weekend of fun and reminiscing! The cost only $55/ per person. For more details and additional info please contact WBHS1989@verizon.net or join Facebook and the WBHS Class of 1989 group. They look forward to seeing all former classmates . Don’t miss it!

Class of 1954 will be celebrating our 55th reunion on Friday Oct 2nd at Charlie Hill Center for a Fish Fry and Saturday Oct 3rd at the War Memorial. We hope all our classmates will be there. Contact me if you need any info. We have a great group working on the details.

Welcome to the world New babies- Irene Coryn Miller Born Aug 14th , Proud Mom Susan Miller and Grandparents Butch and Pattie Miller and the late Nan Miller.

Emmalee Grace Dodson Born 8/13. Proud parents are Amy & Andy Dodson . Grandparents Betty & Terry McVey , Bonnie and Keith Dodson and Great 1Granddaddy Arthur “Go Daddy” Nunn.

Hailey Whitney Stump born Aug 4th. Proud Parents are Kevin & Leigh Ann Stump. First grandbaby of Ken & Fran Stump.

Colin McCrae Rodgers arrived Aug 11 first child of Justin and Lori Rodgers and proud grandparents Joe & Angie Rodgers.

Congratulations to all !!!!! Now love them and enjoy them!!

Jon Weems CD’s on sale for Charity, 12 original songs by Jon. Proceeds go to Fund the Brain Injury Resource & Development Center. Contact Jon at Jonathanweems@verizon.net or call him 540588-2917. Please help with the cause to keep it open. You will love Jon’s songs.

Thasher’s Got Talent !!!! Dinner & Show - Sept 13, 5 pm.

Got Talent contact Tina Yates at the office 344-4708 or emailtyates@thrasherumc.org. Let her know you want to be in the show.

Good Luck to all students, teachers, Principals, Bus Drivers, Custodians, Cafeteria workers and administrators. Anyone working in the school system. Hope you all have a wonderful year!!

P.S. PLEASE TELL EVERYONE WHERE I AM AND THANKS FOR BEING WITH ME ALL THOSE YEARS.!!!!!!!!!

Welcome to the 2009 – 2010 school year! The W.E. Cundiff staff is prepared for a successful year and looking forward to working with all school stakeholders. Please mark your calendars and join us for the following events.

BONSACK ELEMENTARY Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year. We hope everyone had a fun and relaxing summer vacation. We are ready to begin another fabulous year full of extensive learning and exciting activities.

Here are a few of Bonsack’s upcoming events…

August 31st – September 14th: Innisbrook Fall Fundraiser September 7th: Labor Day Holiday - No School September 8th: Back To School Night (Grades 1-2) 6:00 September 10th: Back To School Night (Grades 3-5) 6:00 September 16th: 12:05 Early Dismissal – Teacher Inservice September 18th: Family Pizza and Movie Night 6:00 We are looking forward to a wonder year!!!!

MT. PLEASANT ELEMENTARY

Mt. Pleasant News “Let your light shine in 2009!”

This is our motto to start off the 2009-10 school year.

While every new year is exciting , this one is especially so as our school is being renovated. We are looking forward to the positive changes to our school.

Please join us for our 2nd PTA Walkathon on Friday, September 18! Walk for your health!

Ellen Walton, Principal Mt. pleasant

VOICE 11

“ Terrier Field

Regardless what you do, over half the people in t

One of the hottest topics of the summer has been the William Byrd baseball coaching vacancy. Speculation ran rampant on who would replace Steve Sizemore, who left the program after two years. Rumors surrounded the situation and it seemed as if nearly everyone had an opinion and wanted a say so. When all the dust had settled, the school administration had found not one, but two men for the job. Chris Carr and David Mitchell.

Both have ties to the program, Carr as a player and coach and Mitchell as a coach at the middle school. Both have ideas on what they can do to get the program back to the “glory days” of the 90’s and early 2000’s. With a situation such as this, there are still going to be rumors floating around, but Vinton Voice publisher Chris Manning sat down with both co-coaches and asked some of the questions we’ve been hearing around the area. The picture accompanying this story and the title may be some people’s idea of how this situation is working, one coach trying to pull the reigns from each other, but as you will see in part one of our two part interview with the skippers, nothing could be further from the truth.

Chris: What did you guys think when they decided they were going do go with co-coaches instead of the more traditional one head coach route?

Coach Mitchell: Initially?

Chris: Initially.

Coach Mitchell: I wasn’t real sure if that would work out but the more I thought about it the more I liked it. I think it’s going to really benefit the kids having two head coaches who really know baseball. A lot of different things, I look forward to learning things from Chris, I think he’s going to learn some things from me too, I think it’s going to be a win/win situation.

Coach Carr: I always thought it was possible, there would have to a lot of communication between us. We’ve met four or five times now, just in the week in a half, two weeks since we’ve known this was going to happen, we’ve sat and talked for hours. I thought communication was going to be the stumbling block but so far our communication has been great. I’ve always thought if you can climb the hurdle of communication that anything’s possible.

Coach Mitchell: Chris and I talked about this before any decision was ever made. It’s got to be the right situation, and I spent several hours talking to Chris about what if this, and what if that, but our views are so similar on so

12 VOICE

many things which I think it a good thing.

Chris: How is this going to work?

First day of practice, kids show up to the field, what happens?

Coach Mitchell: We’re going to have a practice schedule that we’ve David pretty much gotten set. That’s not Mitchell to say we can’t deviate from it, but 1978 Graduate of William we’re expecting it to pretty much be Fleming HS in Roanoke the routine. Chris is going to handle College 1979-1983 B.S. the offense; I’m going to handle the Longwood Health, PE, Driver Education defense. That’s not to say that I’m not Radford Univ. 1986-1987 going to have any offensive input or Taught at WBHS 2006he’s not going to have any defensive Present WBMS 2005-2006 input, but when it comes down to Staunton River 1990-2002 Salem HS 1986-1990 game time and those critical decisions, Isle of Wight Academy 1983-1985 I’m going to make the defensive ones Patrick Henry HS 1982 and he’s going to make the offensive Coaching Experience •WBMS Head Baseball Coach ones. You don’t have time to sit there 2007-Present and talk about the decisions during the •Staunton River HS JV game, so that was one thing I thought Football (6 years) Varsity Football Varsity Baseball 7 •Salem we needed to clear up pretty quickly, HS(2),Andrew Lewis Middle Football so we’ve already taken that on.

(2) •Radford U. pitching coach (1986-1987) Coach Carr: I feel that the biggest •Isle of Wight Academy Varsity thing, even in the initial meeting, was Football (2), Varsity Baseball (2) •Hampden Sydney College that it had to be understood up front Summer Camp Baseball Instructor in the game especially, but in practice (2 years) too, we had to clarify who was going to Advertising Sales at VALPAK if the be responsible for what. Things that Roanoke Valley (‘03-’05) have to be decided on a daily basis.

We’ve got a form practice plan we’re going to follow every day. The kids will know Coach Carr: What I envision is the two that they’re going to get taught every aspect of of us will be sitting beside each other when the game daily in practice. And then the other we’re on defense and I may say “Coach he looks things, the parent concerns or the booster club tired” or he may say “What do you think?” and or our budget or what we want to do with the I would give him my opinion, but ultimately the field, those are situations where you have time pitching decision is going to come down to his to sit down and talk. Coach Mitchell might decision and I’m going to stand behind him no want to till the infield and I might not…well matter what it is. we’ve got all the time in the world to sit down Coach Mitchell: If it’s that kind of and talk about that. Like he said, the baseball situation, that’s something we’ve already been decisions, the things that have to be decided discussing in the dugout as the game goes on, spur of the moment, we’ve already decided, it’s not to say that we’re not going to involve our and we’re going to get input from each other, assistant coaches either because they’re just as but ultimately the decision will come down to much a part of the program as we are, so it’s not one person just like it would if there were just going to be totally my decision, but if it’s up in one head coach. the air, then yes it is.

Coach Carr: Essentially, the way I see it Chris: Let me clarify, you’ve got bottom of is, if the Terriers are in the field and we’re in the the seventh, and Jacob McMillan has pitched dugout, I look at myself as an assistant coach a gem, but is starting to tire. Kevin Bowles offering advice to the head coach. If we’re is warmed up, ready to go and you (Coach hitting and a pinch hitting situation comes up Coach Carr) think it’s time to pull him and or a hit and run or something like that then I you (Coach Mitchell) think he should stay in, will look at him (Coach Mitchell) as an assistant he stays? coach offering advice to me.

” d Tug-of-War

n the community aren’t going to like the decision...

– Co-Coach David Mitchell

new booster club president.

Coach Mitchell: It’s a good situation. The job of the booster club is to support the kids and give the program what we need to succeed; we’ve got one goal in mind, that is to win baseball games at William Byrd. We’ve met with Todd several times and I think people Chris are going to like the plan that we have.

Carr (Looks at Coach Coach Carr) Should we 1991-1994 William Byrd High get in to any of that?

School Coach Carr: The first thing Todd 1993 All-District, All-Region came to me with is that we’re going to 1994 All-District, All-Region, let the coaches run the program and the All-state, Timesland POY, VHSCA booster club. Which is refreshing to all-star hear, I mean from top to bottom. Game 1994-1998 Radford University and practice decisions to the booster 1998 All Big South First Team club the ordering, the fundraising, he Some All-American Recognition by wants us all going in the same direction. various publications The booster club people that I’ve talked 1999-2001 Assistant Coach at SRHS to, the statement I’ve made is “We’re going to do things differently, but we’re 1999-2004 Associate Scout – NY Mets, Chicago White Sox going to do things correctly.” And that 1999-2001 Hitting Coach means the booster club living up to Tidewater Mets/Whitesox their name and that means, they’re here - Coached David Wright, BJ Upton, Justin Verlander as well as to boost whatever the program needs over 40 players who signed D-1 and that direction comes from the scholorships. coaches. Everybody with the booster 2004-2009 Assistant Basketball club is on board with that and I give and Head Basketball coach SRHS credit to Todd for getting the booster 2007-2009 Assistant Athletic Director SRHS club to agree to let the coaches run the boosters. That being said, Todd’s idea is to get the boosters more involved on a daily basis by setting up these committees.

Chris: Have you had any talks with last We’re going to have a field committee that year’s assistants, Coach (Gene) Riggs and Neil Coach Riggs is going to sit on and help out with.

(Zimmerman)? Coach Pence has retired and We’re going to have a committee to work on I have a feeling he’s going to stay that way. giving the bylaws more structure that I’m going I don’t think Carolyn is going to let him “un- to sit on and be involved with and then we’re retire.” going to have a committee that does all the Coach Carr: As of now our staff stands as fundraising that Coach Mitchell is going to sit the two of us and Neil and Gene, Larry Light is on and head up, so we’re going to try to get the coming back to do the JV. As it stands, nothing parents more active and more involved, but we is official on the middle school, but I think want them to understand that for the program we’re really close on that. And then we may be to work best, you’ve got to get input from the looking for one more person to help on the JV coaches because we’re the ones that are there level. From what I understand, Doug (Pence) every day. is officially retired, I don’t think he wants any part of coaching any more, but he’s going to be Chris: that sounds like the way the around. program used to be run, back when we went to Coach Mitchell: He’s always welcome to state every year. come down there and help out on the field; he’s Coach Carr: That’s true. done a knockdown job of that.

Chris: What is some of the feedback that Chris: How has your relationship been you’ve heard thus far? School hasn’t started, thus far with the new booster club president? but it doesn’t take long for word to get out in With the change in coaching, we also had a our community, I’m sure you guys have heard

some things. Everyone is talking to everyone, but what have you heard from the community and more importantly, the kids?

Coach Carr: I talked to Bowles and Clifton the other day and they didn’t even bring up the coaching (situation.) I think they’re just set on playing ball; they just wanted to talk about the team and who was coming out for the team and getting some of kids who have stopped playing baseball to come back and play again. I think the kids are look at it as a fresh start, something that is an opportunity for them to learn and to get some of their buddies to come back out and play ball again. Kids and community have made it really clear to me that we can be really good.

So, I feel a little bit of pressure walking in to the situation the way it is, but we could be good.

We’ve got all our (starting) pitching coming back, but we’ve got to learn to hit timely. For the most part the people I’ve talked to have put a really positive spin on it, they realize that we could be a really good team.

Coach Mitchell: It’s been pretty positive.

Several people have commented, when they first heard about this co-coaching thing, and like I said before, the more I thought about it the more I’ve thought “yeah, this might work out.” The kids I’ve talked to support it, the parent, we’ve got a great group of parents coming up, and I’ve coached all the kids coming up except the seniors. Parents, kids, great bunch of people. I’m not so sure how you lose eight seniors and think we’re going to be that strong, we are definitely going to be young.

As far as the parents and the kids, I think they’re going to be very supportive. This is something I told them in the interview, the people up for the job; it was a pretty strong field. I told Dr. Turner and Crystal Worley that I didn’t think there was a wrong decision as far as the direction of the program, there’ going to be change and people are going to be doing things a little bit differently, but change isn’t always a bad thing. I don’t think they could have made a wrong decision, the problem I do have is that I think it split the community, so regardless what you do, over half the people in the community aren’t going to like the decision and I think that’s what we’re facing right now.

Chris: That’s what we’re trying to address here is to show a united front with you guys.

Coach Mitchell: If people would be a little more open minded and give us a chance, we can make this thing work out.

•Next week, Part Two of Chris Manning’s interview with coaches Mitchell and Carr. For more from Carr, check out his diary on Page 17.

VOICE 13

REMEMBERINGWALLACE

‘

residents of Vinton voice their thoughts on the late Wallace Cundiff

Wallace was one of the last TRUE vintonites. He represented Vinton extremely well with his volunteer work (dogwood festival, lions club and numerous other charitable work), his work as “Vinton’s Pharmacist”, and his integrity.

-Tim Greenway, Greenway and Associates

’

“I can remember when I was a kid, my Dad Robert Wood worshipped him. Wallace should have been named Mr. Vinton. “ -Tommy Wood, Wood’s Service Center and Towing

“Wallace Cundiff was a walking example for all of us. Give of yourself to others and you will be blessed beyond measure. He lived it every day of his life.”

-Hal Mabe Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce President “Mr. Cundiff was a fine Christian gentleman. His work with the school board was instrumental in the construction of the current William Byrd High School. Mr.Cundiff’s work had a positive impact on thousands of WBHS graduates over the years. Mr. Cundiff’s legacy will continue to have a positive impact on future generations of students.”

-Dr. Richard Turner, William Byrd High School Principal “Wallace Cundiff was a true gentleman’s gentleman. He loved Vinton and was always there to help anyone at anytime. Wallace was honorary Co-Chairman of Our Vinton /Roanoke County Veteran’s Monument Committee and wanted so much to see it built.

He gave so much back to Vinton.

His legacy will live on forever.

Well done , true and faithful servant. He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.”

-Bootie Bell Chewning

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“I think that Wallace Cundiff was a wonderful person, a man of high integrity, and a great leader in our community. I believe his natural leadership skills stemmed from the fact that he had a deep desire to help people. It was always obvious that Wallace loved his family and the Vinton community. Wallace will truly be missed and remembered fondly.”

-Mayor Brad Grose

“Wallace Cundiff was and is a legend in the Vinton and surrounding communities. He gave more to others than he ever received and his love for his family is unmatched. Wallace loved life and serving others - from his work with the Lyons Club, Vinton Baptist Church and his ownership and investment in our community through Cundiff Drug Store.

He will be missed by thousands but his spirit lives on in each of us who carry his mission and values of serving others before self.”

-Patrick Patterson, William Byrd High School Guidance Coordinator “Wallace was a kind man who befriended me when I first started working for Vinton. He certainly made me welcome to the community.

I always enjoyed his enthusiasm and wisdom while working on various community efforts.”

-Mary Beth Layman, Town of Vinton Special Events Coordinator

“Wallace hired me when I was 15-16 years old to work part time at the food counter at Cundiff’s Drug Store. He was always so nice and it was a lot of fun working for him.”

–Jennifer Collins Brooks, Barry Brooks Photography “Wallace Cundiff was a true friend.

No matter where you saw him – at the drug store, post office, church, on the street, etc – he always took time to speak a friendly hello and ask ‘How are you doing?”

He was always concerned about others…..and always willing to help with whatever. That was proven thru his involvement in the community. And what memories I have of eating and chatting at the Cundiff Drug Store food counter – before and after school and Friday nights – best food in town, hot dogs, banana splits, etc..and fresh doughnuts heated on the grill in the mornings. I appreciate ALL he did for the growth of the Vinton Chamber of Commerce for 50+ years………and for the entire community. Wallace will be missed in many ways.”

-Judy Cunningham, Executive Director Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce

Wallace Cundiff’s Legacy in Vinton •Loss of local staple on August 3 affects much of community Story by Aaron Layman Certain places and goings-on have become fixtures in Vinton over the years. Soccer games over in Vinyard Park, kids doing cannonballs off the diving board at the Vinton Pool and the old clock that sits in front of the Municipal building are some of these mainstays. These have become second nature to living in the town and have given it its identity. Particular people have also become part of what makes Vinton special.

Wallace Cundiff, who passed away on August 3, was one of those people.

Born in Huddleston in 1928, Cundiff came from a farming family with eight siblings.

He and one of these siblings, the late W.E. Cundiff, came to the Town of Vinton around the same time back in the 1950s. Wallace, who had earned his degree in pharmacy at the Medical College of Virginia while in the National Guard and US Army Medical Field Service Corp, worked first as a partner in White Front Pharmacy (where D.R. Music stands today). He broke out on his own in December 1959 when he opened Cundiff Pharmacy on Pollard Street.

According to his son Sam Cundiff, who along with his brother Bill went into pharmacy like their father, business came quickly with many people following him over from White Front Pharmacy due to his customer service approach: “They seemed to like his generosity and caring attitude.” Wallace would often go out in the middle of the night without complaint to fill someone’s prescription. Over the years, the family had many birthday parties for Wallace at the store because they knew exactly where to find him most days. Even today, there are customers from the day it opened who have been coming only to Cundiff’s Pharmacy for the nearly fifty years it’s been open.

In addition to filling prescriptions and providing medical supplies, Cundiff took particular pride in the pharmacy serving as a social center. The lunch counter would be packed around lunchtime and kids going to and from the old William Byrd Intermediate School would often hang out there to eat and shoot the breeze. At that time, the Dogwood restaurant and the lunch counter at Cundiff’s were the only real places to eat in downtown Vinton.

As the Roanoke region grew over the years, national chains such as Rite Aid and Eckerd started to move into the Vinton area.

He dealt with this competition, says Sam, by both holding strong to his fast and friendly approach to providing pharmaceutical needs and by providing over-the-counter medications

Photos by Gene Marrano ABOVE: Wallace Cundiff (left) was one of Vinton’s most recognizable faces.

RIGHT: Wallace’s son Sam mans the register at Cundiff’s Drug Store. and medical equipment that the other stores neglected to carry.

Town Clerk Darleen Bailey, who can see the pharmacy from her office at the Municipal Building, has been shopping solely at Cundiff’s for her medicinal needs since moving to Vinton in 1977. She reasons that the personal touch of Cundiff Pharmacy is what has driven her to go only there for her needs: “They’re familiar with what medication I take…if I get something new, they’ll inform me how to take it.”

She also remembers Wallace for a particular holiday tradition he carried on with his downtown neighbors. For a while back in the 1980s, he and a brother would come over to the municipal building around Christmas with boxes of apples, oranges and grapefruits.

They’d lay out the boxes and town employees would then divvy up fruit into bags to take home.

Now, she attests that part of Vinton’s tapestry is gone: “I do miss seeing him since he’s been such a big part of Vinton.”

Cundiff did not stay content throughout the years to solely be a business owner in Vinton. Serving his community was another passion. Even before he opened his own pharmacy, he became president of the Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce in 1958, serving

for two years. According to minutes from his tenure as president, the Chamber covered many issues affecting the businesses of Vinton, including planting 12 dogwood trees at the War Memorial, looking to secure a radio station in Vinton and discussing the joining of the Blue Ridge Parkway with Rt. 24.

Long-time Chamber executive director Judy Cunningham says that he volunteered for and sponsored Chamber of Commerce events constantly throughout his years of membership with bingo fundraising being just one of his •See ‘CUNDIFF’ - Page 16

VOICE 15

•‘CUNDIFF’ continued from page 15

Do you remember when you could buy potato chips from your neighbor?

Story by Jenna Forbes Beginning in 1931, Osha W. Upson and his wife Eula Mae Stiff Upson ran a family business that successfully operated six days out of the week, traditionally excluding Sunday as a workday. Osha served as the owner and salesman for his family business, whereas, his wife, Eula cooked the potato chips in their basement with the assistance of some of their children: Connie, Frances, Gertrude, and Liston. Their granddaughter, Barbara Siner Hargis, President of the Vinton Historical Society, recently reminisced about her grandparent’s potato chip business, “Granddaddy’s business was a family business, all done by word of mouth.” Mrs. Hargis further explained that her family cooked the potato chips by dipping the potato slices in the hot oil, draining them, and placing them on large sheets of butcher block paper to dry. “From the age of seven to ten years old, I would answer the door because I was not allowed to be downstairs near the hot oil, furnace, and copper kettle,” Mrs. Hargis recalls. The process concluded by sprinkling salt on the potato chips and scooping them into the individual small bags to be sold to customers. The potato chips were usually made in one hundred pound increments.

Local families, children, and companies would stop by 305 Poplar Street to grab a five-cent small white paper bag, labeled in red ink, “Upson’s.” Many of the local businesses, such as C & P Telephone Company, Appalachian Power Company, and the Vinton Weaving Mill would call at the beginning of the week and place a large order of twenty-five to seventy-five bags. Independent grocery stores, stretching from Vinton to New Castle, Virginia, sold Upson’s potato chips. For large orders like these, the small bags were placed into cardboard boxes. Mr. Upson distributed the potato chips himself in his 1929 black Model T Ford.

According to many locals, stopping by the Upson’s home to grab a bag of Upson’s Potato Chips was one of their favorite childhood memories, and they were “delicious and appetizing” salted potato chips, just like their advertisement said! Eventually, Mr. Upson purchased and managed the franchise commissary at the Vinton Weaving Mill in approximately 1945. Throughout his entire life, Mr. Upson worked diligently in the food industry; once he passed away, his wife sold the commissary.

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Log online to VintonVoice.com or e-mail info@vintonvoice.com to find out how you can support Vinton and advertise all at the same time.

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16 VOICE

many examples of volunteerism: “Just like the town, he wanted to see the Chamber of Commerce grow…he was faithful to every aspect of the Chamber.”

In addition to the Chamber, he also served as president of the Dogwood festival and as a member of the Roanoke County school board from 1966 to 1969 during which time William Byrd High School and Glenvar were constructed. Sam Cundiff can recall Wallace taking him to see the construction of Glenvar on the way out to Salem Rebels hockey games.

One essential aspect of his life in Vinton was his membership in the Lions Club of Vinton. He was a member of the club for over 40 years, serving as both president of the Vinton Host Lions Club back in 1966 and Founding President of the Vinton Breakfast Lions Club in 1985. The club raises money to fund programs for diabetes, blindness and deafness and Wallace was known to be one of the leaders in the club when it came to fundraising, leading and recruiting new Lions.

His ubiquity in Vinton didn’t hurt when it came to raising money for benefit projects.

Town Treasure and Lions Club member Barry Thompson recalls that when he’d work the White Cane project, which sponsors leader dogs for the blind, with Wallace, the latter would know everybody that came up. As a result, fundraising would jump up during his period of serving that day. He also served as a mentor to many young Lions, bringing in at least 36 new members during his lifetime. Thompson, who had known Cundiff since moving to work in Vinton says that he “admired him and looked up to him.”

According to Eric Mills, current Breakfast Lions Club President Cundiff would work behind the scenes if he wasn’t able to be present at an event whether he was getting supplies or providing transportation.

He received a litany of awards over the years and was recognized in March of this year with the naming of the Lion S. Wallace Cundiff Scholarship which provides $2,000 scholarships to local students.

Somehow in the midst of his business and community leading, Wallace still found time for his family and hobbies. Horseback riding was a passion of his with golf overtaking that as his hobby of choice later in life.

He was raised on a farm and ended up running two farms himself with cattle and small gardens in Franklin County and off Hardy Road.

Even in his hobbies, though, his willingness to serve the community crept in.

He donated a town Christmas tree more than once from his farms. Mills, speaking about Cundiff’s time as a Lion, also perhaps gives the best summation of his station in Vinton: “His whole life was based around our motto: ‘We Serve.’”

Starting with monetary basics Welcome to the first installment of “Where’s My Money…” Each week I will bring you common-sense, time-proven financial tips and tidbits that will hopefully help you get a better grip on your money.

What qualifies me to write anything about money you ask? I’m glad you asked.

I completed accounting undergrad Dale Russell business graduate work wheresmymoney@vintonvoice.com and earning both a BS and MBA from Liberty University. I am a fiscal conservative who believes that financial responsibility begins with us.

So let’s being with some basics… Sit down, make yourself some coffee, and get a pad and pen. Let’s chat for a few minutes. You won’t be graded and we will keep this between you and me so let me ask you just a few questions.

• How much is in your checking/savings account? Do you know who or where where your bank is?

• Do you balance your checkbook on a regular basis? Or do you use the ol’ “check my balance online” trick? Do you reconcile your accounts monthly?

• Do you have a spending plan in place and do you stick to it?

• Do you have an emergency fund for those little things that come up unexpectedly?

• Do you talk with your spouse openly and honestly in a non-threatening way about the family finances? Do you talk about your wants and goals and have agreed upon a financial direction?

• And, are those financial goals written down somewhere you can seem them regularly?

• Do you know how much debt you have? How much is secured?

Unsecured?

Do you know what your financial net worth is?

Now c’mon, stop laughing.

We are all guilty of some of those things. I certainly was. Turn on your tv an just about any given day and you will hear about folks you would have never imagined filing for bankruptcy or a foreclosure.

Take look at the Madoff client list, its packed full of folks that believed he was a financial expert that were blinded by his promises of higher than market return on investment and as a result they lost millions of dollars. Always remember, if it sounds too good…

Let’s be honest about a few •

Why would you want to stare into the financial abyss?

things, ok? The average American works about 46 hours per week or 2,392 hours per year. The average American household carries about $8,000.00 of unsecured debt and

almost 50% of Americans admit to regularly spending more than they earn. You work very hard to make the money you earn. Why would you want to stare into the financial abyss? Why would you just give your money away without a fight?

Now I’m not trying to convince you that you need to become a cheapskate and hide your money in a coffee can, but I am trying to impress upon you that you have to have a financial plan. Believe me the folks trying to separate you from your money have a great plan that works. Take some time to talk these things through with your spouse, or yourself if there isn’t one, and start by answering those questions I asked you earlier.

That’s really the first step. Take some time to really assess where you are financially.

Next week, I’ll meet you back here to give you some of the answers to those questions and some tips on how to get yourself moving.

You will find that once you build some momentum, things will get easier.

By the way, in addition to giving you helpful tidbits, I will be digging into the mailbag and answering some of your questions too…e-mail them to me at wheres mymoney@vintonvoice.com.

Chris Carr

COACHING DIARY: PART I Let me start by saying it is truly an honor to be coaching baseball at a proud school like William Byrd. The tradition of William Byrd Baseball speaks for itself. As many readers know, this is a homecoming for me. I am proud to say I played for the Terriers from 1991-1994.

It is also an honor to be asked to write a short weekly journal for the Vinton Voice.

As for the baseball program, I really feel like things are going to continue to head in the right direction.

Coach Mitchell and I have been friends for nearly ten years since we taught together at Staunton River. In the years since, we have taken different career paths, but I feel good about being able to work with him again. We have talked on numerous occasions in the weeks since we were named co-head coaches and each conversation has been positive. I know the baseball season will go well and fans as well as skeptics will see that we are committed to restoring the pride and tradition back to William Byrd Baseball.

VOICE 17

BELOW: Chamber of Commerce executive director Judy Cunningham and husband Jim stand in front of their antique car during “Retro Market” at the Vinton Farmer’s Market BOTTOM: Former Washington Redskin Bill Brundige was on hand at the Foodette with Redskin cheerleaders earlier this month on behalf of the VA Lottery.

Photos by Chris Manning

PHOTOS

BELOW: Delegate Onzlee Ware and Board of Supervisor Candidate Patrick Patterson converse with each other and prospective voters at their “coffee with the candidates” at the Dogwood.

LEFT: Creigh Deeds, candidate for Governor, stopped by the Vinton McDonald’s on Saturday, August 22 and was joined

by Dick Cranwell.

18 VOICE

Photo by Chris Manning The Vinton Farmer’s Market was lined up with cars at the “Retro Market.”

Story by Danae Wensley The Town of Vinton would like to welcome the Vinton Voice to our business community.

There is always something exciting happening in the Town of Vinton, which makes it a great place to live, visit and run a business. We are confident that the Vinton Voice will find everything needed for success right here.

March 17, 2009 marked the 125th anniversary of the Town of Vinton. This year’s events have allowed us to reflect upon the accomplishments of the past, while also looking ahead to the excitement and challenges of the future.

“Our future depends on the vision we establish today as a community,” said Town Manager Chris Lawrence.

Early in 2009 the Town Council established a number of key areas of focus. These include neighborhood vibrancy, Downtown revitalization, community spirit, working to make the Town a destination and gateway community, communication and establishing the best government management policies.

In the upcoming year the Town will be working on a number of fronts to proactively address these priorities. These initiatives include efforts to revitalize our downtown, redesigning the Town website as a critical portal into the community and evaluating and

improving our aging utility system to ensure safe and adequate water and sewer services to Town residents and businesses.

The Town of Vinton has a very active Chamber of Commerce, which has been a powerful force in the community for almost 60 years. Over 200 businesses regularly participate in membership and business afterhours meetings to network and discuss local business issues. Local business leaders are also committed to advocating for a healthy business environment.

The local government of the Town is responsible and responsive to the needs of the citizens and business community. The Town staff is very professional, well trained and dedicated to making Vinton a great community.

Our neighborhoods are safe, quiet and clean, providing a traditional hometown feel of years past. Our children receive excellent education through Roanoke County Schools, and our churches provide a foundation for our community values.

Our citizens are very involved in the Town as well, often volunteering for our Fire and Rescue Department, civic organizations and community festivals.

“We are truly blessed to have great people

•‘VOICES’ continued from page 06 whole, but also any work of mine associated with the paper. I think the Vinton community as a whole will embrace the paper as something new and unique, and I hope my work is able to be part of how we capture those readers. I have the opportunity to get my work in the paper with several people that have been doing it for longer than I’ve been alive, and I just hope I’m able to come close to matching their standards and ability. I just want everyone to read my work and judge it honestly.

Here is your open forum to talk to nearly everyone in town, what do you have to say?

My friends and family from Vinton have seen me grow up through the good things and the bad things. I appreciate everything the people close to me have done to support me in the past, present, and especial ly going forward in my life. I may never become a raging success work ing with my passion for sports media or coaching, but with any success

who contribute to our sense of pride and wonderful community spirit,” said Mayor Brad Grose.

The Town of Vinton may be a small suburban town, but we have a big vision for the future. Leadership of Town residents and businesses like the Vinton Voice is vital in order to make our dreams a reality.

“We are at an important crossroads in the Town’s rich 125 years of history,” said Grose.

“We look forward to working with our citizens, businesses and greater Vinton community members to continue to build the foundation for a better future for ourselves and others,” he also said.

The Vinton Voice will be an asset to the Town and its surrounding communities and we thank you for playing a part in moving the Town forward!

I ever have, I will always give the local community credit for helping get me there. I hope that throughout my time in the community, I h ave, and will, be able to help and support people in the same way I’ve felt supported. Residences and locations can always change, but you’re hometown never will. I really look forward to getting involved in this new step.

brian

BARTLEY

inONEminute •Single or Married: Single •Favorite Sport: Basketball •Favorite Movie: Lost in Translation

•Favorite Book: The Natural by Bernard Malamu

•What do you do in your spare time?

Go to the gym as often as possible, coached girl’s AAU basketball for the previous two summers, PR Chair for Habitat for Humanity: Virginia Tech Chapter, hang out with my fri ends, and of course, watch sports •Your ”Soundtrack” song (that best describes you?): Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty (though I like John Mayer’s cover better haha...strange, I know) •How has your hometown made you who you are?

The things I learned from my parents, teachers and friends are the things that built my foundations. The most important things were never what I learned in school, but wha t I learned FROM school. I had so many teachers and coaches that taught me about l

ife...not just the subject they taught or the sport they coached. I have some pretty good things going for me both personally and professionally in my life right now and I know I wouldn’t have been able to have any of those things without the things I have learned and still learning. I just turned 21 less than a month ago, so I’m sure there are still a few things the town can teach me.

VOICE 19

Photos by Chris Manning

Below Photo by Ann Russell

20 VOICE

11th year principal looks forward to the “new” Byrd

Gene Marrano gmarrano@cox.net It’s nice to have new challenges on the job, any job, especially when you’ve been around for 18 years.

That’s what Dr. Richard Turner faces at William Byrd High School this year. Turner – Virginia Tech graduate and unabashed Hokie nut, former competitive go-kart racer and a cancer survivor – will oversee a transformation that is already underway. The Northside alum was an assistant principal at Byrd for seven years before assuming the top spot.

Classrooms will be added, the front entrance moved, a new gym will be built and “every room will be touched,” (his words) by renovations that include a new HVAC system. Speaking of air conditioning, the main gym will also get AC – something Turner says parents have been asking for.

Up the hill at the football stadium a new scoreboard, a larger press box, plus updated concession booths and restrooms are on the horizon.

“They’re in dire need,” says Turner of those last two items.

Turner has been busy; he is also the incoming president of the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals, which heard from gubernatorial hopefuls Creigh Deeds and Bob McDonnell at a Virginia Beach convention this summer (not to mention current

governor Tim Kaine).

At his last count Byrd had about 1226 students set to start school this Monday, near the high of around 1250 during Turner’s tenure. The classrooms to be added will give the school some breathing room, and will mean a bump in capacity to about 1400, in a part of Roanoke County that was growing and adding homes at a nice clip until the recession took hold.

Those new classrooms will come from the building’s current footprint – administrative offices will be relocated where the side entrance to the school was. That will be the new front of the school as well - and the current auxiliary gym will become two stories of classrooms. The back wall of the cafeteria will be pushed out to accommodate about 100 more students.

The football weight room and team rooms will come back over from William Byrd Middle, freeing up space there. The former Roanoke County Career Center/ Central Middle School will take up some of that area.

There will be no parking where the front WBHS is now located; when the two-year project is completed another driving lane will be added and that entrance will become a student dropoff zone. Martin Bros., a local contractor, has been awarded the project but no definite timeline has been set for the bulk of the work – but its happening “very soon,” says Turner, grateful that despite all of the budget cuts and revenue shortfall the $18 million dollar Byrd expansion/renovation will move ahead. One of the Martin Bros. managers – Bob Yost – is a Byrd graduate, as Turner proudly points out.

“Turns out this is a great

Photos by Gene Marrano ABOVE: William Byrd principal Dr. Richard Turner RIGHT: Construction has already begun for the renovations to Byrd. time to do construction stuff…you get better prices,” notes Turner, who as assistant principal went through an expansion at Byrd in 1998, as did several other current administrators and operations people.

Four projects moving ahead now – including renovations at Mt. Pleasant Elementary – have benefited from recessiongenerated lower construction costs. “It’s a tough time – in our business too,” says the 11th year principal.

Asbestos abatement, new utility lines and other preconstruction tasks that took place this summer are just the calm before the storm. For the next few years some students will have to hopscotch from trailer to trailer at times as rooms are worked on.

Turner wants everyone “to stay positive” during the construction

and plans to do some cheerleading himself. Some may have to park at the school’s baseball field while the building takes place. That’s about a 5-minute stroll he figures. “It is what it is …a bit of a hike.”

In all WBHS will add 14 classrooms. Local architect RRMM figured out how all this will work.

“There’s some sharp guys over there,” said Turner, who was in on some of the initial design meetings, at times with the RRMM home office in Norfolk via webcam. He also spent time dealing with Marty Misicko, in charge of building for Roanoke County schools.

The principal sounds like a kid in a candy store, on the verge of renovations that have been talked about for years. “We should soon have a timeline…very soon,” promises Dr, Turner, “I’m thrilled to be part of the new Byrd.”

VOICE 21

Preparing for the long haul

•William Byrd Terrier student-athletes are beginning their Fall sport seasons Story by Brian Bartley Just as the book bags and school supplies come out at the end of every summer, so too do the football pads, cross country shoes, cheerleading mats, volleyball nets, and of course, the golf clubs. It’s almost fall in Vinton, and that means its not only just the start of a new school year, but also the start of a great season in Terrier sports.

William Byrd enters this fall with several defending district champions, and several teams that are making a push to capture a district championship this season.

Here’s a rundown of what to expect.

Football: If the William Byrd Terriers win the Blue Ride District (BRD) championship this year, it will extend their streak to three consecutive.

Though certainly not unattainable, that is a goal that may not be quite as easy to accomplish as it was for the previous two-squads.

For the Terriers to be successful, they will have to replace key pieces in Tyler Snow and Robert Collins.

One big advantage is that Byrd returns the 2008 All-Timesland first team running back, Derrick Palmer.

Palmer gained over 2,000 yards last season, while also getting significant time at the quarterback position. Palmer also had a big season on special teams, so that’s another opportunity to have the ball in his hands this year.

His talent supported with some solid youth would put the Terriers in great position to defend their district title.

Some strong contenders to try and unseat the Terriers are Lord Botetourt and Northside.

The Cavaliers have to overcome some youth in their offense if they are going to legitimately compete for the district title. Northside has a highly touted backfield that has the potential to power them through the district. Both of these teams present big obstacles in Byrd’s path to another district crown.

Outside of the obvious district

22 VOICE

Photo by Chris Manning LEFT: Running back Derrick Palmer sprints during an August 24 practice. Palmer rushed for over 2,000 yards in the 2008 season. games, the Terriers have several big out-of-district games. Byrd will travel to River Ridge District (RRD) powers Hidden Valley and Salem early in the season. These games, especially the one against Salem, could be an early season indicator of how this season is going to shake out for the Terriers.

Cross Country: Just like the football team, the boy’s cross-country team is going into this season as the reigning Blue Ridge District champs. The boy’s tout the BRD’s top three ranked runners in Nick Leffell, Keven O’Connor, and Phillip Gilmore. With those three leading the way, the Terrier boys should be in good position to win the BRD again.

Coach Eric Royal said the girl’s cross-country team was improving and seeing contributions from all the girls in the program. There are girls on the team spanning from seniors to eighth graders contributing to the team, according to Royal. Some of the key runners include seniors Cori Swanson and Jordan Gulli. The Terrier ladies certainly look like they are in good position to improve from last season.

Volleyball: The Terrier volleyball team has a long-standing tradition of winning and there’s no reason to believe that’s going to change any time soon. Like any team, Byrd needs to replace some experience with talented youth to get the most

out of its season. The Terriers open up the season with three very important road games against Craig County, Salem, and Glenvar.

The Terriers then have six straight home games following the road swing, with the Spotswood Classic being wedged in between the fifth and sixth game of the home stand.

Though every game is important, Byrd will have some tune-up time.

The Terriers don’t play a district game until September 29th when they host Northside to open up BRD district play. Following that game against the Vikings, the Byrd ladies will play seven consecutive district games. This eight game stretch will be the making or breaking point in how this season will be judged.

Cheerleading: Anybody that knows anything about William Byrd will know how important cheerleading is in Vinton.

Monica West and her squad enter this season as the reigning state champions. If the Terriers can repeat as state champions this year, it will be the fourth time they’ve done so since 2005.

Though the Terriers have to replace some important departing seniors, there is no reason to expect a setback in success. With every departing member of the team, you can bet there is plenty of young talent to fill in and contribute.

One of the strong points of

the Terrier squads over the years has been impressive routines and choreography. If Byrd is to continue its overwhelming success and make it to the state tournament, they should have the advantage of having one of the best routines to be judged on.

This season certainly has potential extend the Terrier Cheerleading dynasty.

Golf: Golf season is nearly half way finished when school started on Monday. The Terriers have been out on local golf courses during most of August and should be in full swing to make a district as early September approaches.

The Terrier Golf team is currently in the midst of a 5-match series of district play. Following the end of these district matches, Byrd will round out the season by playing some tough RRD in four of its final five matches. These teams RRD included Blacksburg, Salem, Hidden Valley and Cave Spring.

The Terriers will also squeeze in a match against the Glenvar Highlanders on September 15th at Blue Hills.

Coach Kevin Tuck will be looking to continue the tradition of great golf at William Byrd and will likely have September 23rd circled on the calendar as the BRD tournament. If the Terriers advance out of the district, they would play in the region tournament starting October 5th.

•’HIGHFILL’ continued from page 24 will be Highfill’s 150th as a head coach, a mark of which he is proud but not consumed. The Terriers have won three district championships during Highfill’s watch; he also notes that the officials’ association has recognized his program with the sportsmanship award an equal number of times.

“I told people last year when we won the (Blue Ridge) district that we won and we did it right,” he says, referring to the sportsmanship award.

Maybe when football season is over, Highfill might find time to relax? Nope. Highfill will turn to coaching Byrd soccer in the spring, just as he has every year since the school started its program in 1982.

Highfill’s winning percentage on the soccer field is sparkling. His cumulative record is 381-96-16. Under his tutelage, Byrd has won 16 regular season district titles, 15 district tournament championships and 10 regionals.

The Terriers have made the state final four on eight occasions, and they have been state runner-up twice, including 1996 when they lost the state title to Western Albemarle on penalty kicks.

Highfill doesn’t waste time worrying about what might have been; there’s no dwelling on missed opportunities.

“It’s all about relationships,” he says, and then rattles off many names that have influenced him. If pressed, he can name even more people that he has helped develop – and with prodding, he does just that. J.R. Edwards, Hidden Valley’s football coach for the past five years before moving to Salem as an assistant, played for Highfill. Chris Dowdy, Patrick Henry’s soccer coach who took the Patriots to the Group AAA state tournament this past spring, played for Highfill, too.

Highfill was a two-sport star in high school (football and basketball at Andrew Lewis in Salem), class of 1970. As a tight end and linebacker, he was recruited by several schools that today are Division III anchors in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, but instead Highfill opted for King College in Bristol, Tenn.

At King, he found his niche as a four-year soccer player, combining his football and basketball talents on a new playing field. Even though Highfill had never seen a soccer game previously, he found his opportunity and made the most of it.

Highfill played fullback for King’s soccer team. “The coach turned the defense over to me,” he says proudly. Today, Highfill is a member of the King College Sports Hall of Fame. In a similar fashion, Highfill built his professional career. He began as a tennis coach at Franklin County in 1974, accepting positions in other sports as they became available, moving to Floyd in 1979, and then coming to Byrd two

years later. His name has been mentioned when other openings have occurred during the subsequent years, including when Willis White left Salem in 2004, but Highfill remains happy where he is.

“I’ve enjoyed all 70 seasons I’ve coached,” Highfill says, explaining that he has averaged coaching two sports in each of his 35 years.

“One year, I just coached one sport, but another time, I coached three.”

Recognizing that a teacher puts in 35 hours a week at school, Highfill has often doubled that total when you add in his coaching time and preparation time for teaching. “It’s been pretty much 24/7 in season,” he says.

Without hesitation, Highfill is quick to name administrators, co-workers, assistant coaches, players, students and family members who have made his work easier. The complete list is too extensive to include in this limited space, but again, Highfill emphasizes that relationships are what life is all about.

“All four of the athletic directors I’ve worked with at Byrd – David Blevins, Jane Layman, Gary Walthall and Crystal Worley -have been extraordinary,” he says. He touts the supportive work of principals Robert Patterson and Richard Turner as well.

The old adage says that good people make those around them look good. It’s a safe bet that Byrd’s principals and athletic directors know that Highfill himself is due at least part of their credit.

D

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VOICE 23

Jeff Highfill: Bloom Where You Are Planted

John A. Montgomery jmonty@cox.net From a standpoint of some distance, it would seem that William Byrd High School football and soccer coach Jeff Highfill has carved a life that many of us would envy.

He might admit that things have worked out nicely for him. But not before carefully adding that that many, many others have shown

him how to pick up the knife, how to sharpen it, how to handle it -- and how to clean up his shavings, too.

Highfill enjoys a pleasant lifestyle – recently retiring as a Roanoke County Schools math teacher after 35 years combined in three school systems. His work has impacted hundreds -- make that thousands -- of students. He’s still happily married to his high school sweetheart (Katie) and their grown children are entrenched in successful careers. Daughter Owen works for the federal government in Washington; son Jeff, Jr. is a teacher and a coach at Byrd.

At 57, Highfill might be a logical candidate to enjoy the fruits of his labor. Perhaps travel a bit. Take in some sporting events. Maybe watch some films?

Highfill will indeed be doing each of those things – just as he has

all along. You see, Highfill knows how to mesh work and play.

As head coach of the Byrd football team, as he has been for the past 28 years, Highfill will be spending Friday nights this fall on the sidelines – when he’s not riding a bus, or meeting with his staff, or watching video footage. This could be a challenging year for the Terriers, as their talent cupboard has been stripped of some outstanding players – including former stars Tyler Snow and Robert Collins, who have graduated and will be suiting up for James Madison and VMI, respectively, this year.

Alas, Highfill has at least one ace in the hole. Byrd’s running game will be led by Derrick Palmer, who rushed for more than 2,000 yards last season. Palmer, a senior, will be difficult to contain even if his supporting cast is relatively inexperienced. And besides, Highfill is already looking beyond this year, recognizing that when you groom high school talent it is for blocks of time that extend beyond the current season. It’s a lesson that Highfill’s mentors have drilled into him.

Byrd’s next win on the gridiron •See ‘HIGHFILL’ - Page 23

VOICE