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Hats off to the cast, crew, Director, Choregraphers, Musicans, Set designer, Costumes and anyone that helped in anyway for another fantastic production of ANNIE GET YOUR GUN by the William Byrd Players. Again I will say it was Broadway right here in Vinton. The only thing sad was having to say goodbye to the seniors: Mackenzie Brewer, Mark MacCaden, Shannon Poffenberger, Morgan Willis, Katie Holland, Holly Farris, Tyler Wiggins, Antonia Carrasco, Stephanie Broyles, Alex Warner and Derek Williams (hope I haven’t left anyone out). Good Luck in anything you chose to do in life. If it is show Biz BREAK-A-LEG. Remember the door is always open to come back!!!! Happy Birthday to the youngest Buckroo in the cast Aaron Nicely on Saturday. What a B-day party!!! Hope You enjoyed the show Dan. Get ready for your close up!!!! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Mitzi West Johnson, Linda Cumby, Rod Belcher, Sandy Brown Hope you had a great B-day. Bootie Bell Chewning How was I to know there was a party going . Yes !!! Super Saver may have won the Derby in Kentucky but David BOO_TEE@msn.com Hepinstall was the big winner in Vinton. Candie and Richie Tomlinson held a Derby party at their home on Saturday. The ladies wore their best Derby hats. Those enjoying the day were Angie Lewis and Greg Boitnott, Candie and Richie, Natalie and Carrie Tomlinson, Betty jo and Tommy Overstreet, Pat and Jennifer Gobble, Beth and Brian Wickline, Bobby and Shannan Dillard, Jerry and Carolyn Dearing, David and Kay Heptinstall, Kim and Lewis Holland, Donna and David Keener and Dan Webb. Thanks to Candie and Richie, a great time was had by all!! Also, a big Happy Birthday to Betty Hepinstall!! May you have many more!! Happy 25th Annniversary to Jerry and Debbie Thomas.. May 3rd . Hope you two had a great one and many more years together. Congratulations!!!!!!!! Get well wishes and prayers go out to Walt Darnell (Lewis-Gale), Eva Craig (RMH), Michele Yeatts and Bill Hufton. Hang in There! Lotz Funeral home will never be the same. For the past 50 years Carl Mann was always there to greet you. Thorough the years he has helped countless families during their periods of grief.He
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was also a wonderful citizen in the community always willing to help in anyway. A truly caring person. Our sympathy goes out to Donie wife of 52 yrs, Carla & Chip and their families of which he was so proud and loved dearly . Yes Vinton has lost another outstanding Man.”MR MANN “ You will be missed by all.
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Pictured: Luke Fortner, Mackenzie Brewer, Lee Reid, Christie Vernon and Tyler Wiggins Photo by Danny Cruff
116 S. Poplar Street - Suite 1 Vinton, VA 24179 540-904-5836 - Office 540-904-5838 - Fax info@vintonvoice.com www.vintonvoice.com
EDITORIAL Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief dan@vintonvoice.com Chris Manning Advertising Director chris@vintonvoice.com Brian Manning Circulation Director brian@vintonvoice.com Jacob Clifton Delivery/General jacob@vintonvoice.com Danny Cruff Senior Contributor danny@vintonvoice.com
COLUMNISTS Bootie Bell Chewning General Info BOO_TEE@msn.com
CONTRIBUTORS Barbara Dillon Contributor news@vintonvoice.com April Hall Special Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Melanie Meador Photographer melanie@vintonvoice.com John A. Montgomery Special Contributor jmonty@cox.net Danae Wensley Contributor news@vintonvoice.com Terrier Times Staff Contributors news@vintonvoice.com Copyright © 2010 All rights reserved by Vinton Voice Newspapers
The Vinton Voice accepts and encourages letters to the editor. Letters must not exceed 400 words, must be signed and accompany contact information of the writer for verification purposes. Send to editor@ vintonvoice.com with the subject line ‘Letter to the Editor.’
Hare, Altice garner top votes, re-elected to seats on Council Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief At near 7:45 on Tuesday evening, a note was passed up through the ranks at the regularly scheduled Vinton Town Council meeting, bringing an (unofficial) end to a race that began in 2009 for two seats on the Council. As Barry Thompson brought the note forward to Mayor Brad Grose, three very distinctly different roads came to an end, allowing Matthew Hare and Bobby Altice to retain their council seats over upstart Aaron Lyles, the William Byrd High School senior who made his intentions to run late last Fall. Hare is just months into his first term, taking the seat of the late Billy Obenchain, while Altice has served the Council for 32 years heading into this election. “I think I have the experience,” Altice said late Tuesday night. “I’ll try to represent the people as best I can and I’ll work with the people in Vinton.” “I always felt like I was a little bit behind everyone else,” Hare said. “Obviously Bobby has done this many, many times...and Aaron his team obviously have been doing this quite a long time. There was a while I felt like I was one step behind and was never going to get to everyone so there was a bit of relief– I really did do what I set out to do.” Lyles was the one with upset on his mind, attempting to be the first to unseat Altice, or even take the place of Hare, who brought youth, enthusiasm and a fresh perspective when appointed to Council this year. As varied as their backgrounds and roads to this point may have been, their reactions were equally unique when learning the news. While both re-elected candidates claim they weren’t nervous, their reactions were quite different from each other even as they sat three seats from each other. Altice, the old pro at elections let out a simple nod, confident in the outcome and only really surprised at the low turnout (Hare, the leading vote-geter had just 301 total votes). “It surprised me that more people didn’t come out,” he said. “People are satisfied with how the town is being run...I didn’t hear a lot of complaints.” Hare says he felt confident as well leaving the polls and going into the Council meeting, claiming that he knew that he did all that he could up to that point to earn a re-election after his first campaign. “I figured today was really about whatever
Photos by Dan Vance
Matthew Hare and Bobby Altice spent the evening of their re-elections serving that very office of Vinton Town Council. the voters wanted,” Hare said. “That was fine with me, that’s why I like the system we have. I truly had peace about it.” That aside, Hare still looked relieved with his head in his hands after finally realizing the contents of the note being passed down the line at the meeting. When first passed the note, Hare jokes that he had to tell fellow Councilman Wes Nance that he couldn’t read the note without his glasses, which he laughs as he recounts how he had dropped them in his tea after trying to trade them out for the sunglasses he had been •See ‘ELECTION’ - page 07
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classifieds
Vinton, Bonsack, Mt.Pleasant NOTICES SERVICES
In Brief Stamp Out Hunger in Vinton
This Saturday, May 8, has been named a ‘Stamp Out Hunger’ day in Vinton. Residents can leave non-perishable food items out for their mail carriers as a donation.
WBMS Planning Spring Carnival - phone number correction
William Byrd Middle School is hosting their 2nd annual Spring Carnival May 22nd and will be having a fund raising yard sale on that day starting at 8am. They are seeking donations of household items, etc prior to that date as well as renting spaces the day of for sellers at $10 per space. For more information, contact Tonya Kirk at 890-8462.
WBHS After Prom Party 2010
CARPET LEGAL PUBLIC NOTICE A Budget Hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Vinton Municipal Building for the purpose of discussing the proposed FY2010-2011 Town of Vinton Budget. The following budget is proposed:
Revenues General Fund Utility Fund Capital Improvements Fund Total Revenues
RENTALS
Total All Funds $7,323,765 $3,147,53 $89,250 $10,560,546
Expenditures General Fund: Town Council $112,197 Town Manager’s Office 177,133 Human Resources 79,183 Finance Department 239,450 Police Department 1,842,381 Communications Services 460,487 Emergency Services 4,325 Police Grants 126,005 Fire & EMS 743,591 Animal Control 92,831 Town Garage 61,703 Street Maintenance 1,014,882 Snow and Ice Removal 30,048 Traffic Signs and Street Lighting 132,670 Street and Road Cleaning 67,440 Refuse Collection 480,132 Recycling 62,842 Municipal Building & Grounds 161,341 Special Programs 131,301 War Memorial 291,744 Swimming Pool/Parks 71,474 Senior Citizens Program 91,720 Planning Department 239,756 Economic Development 15,760 Public Transportation 89,000 Vinton Business Center 9,850 Debt Service - General Fund 456,770 Transfers 37,750 Total General Fund $7,323,765 Utility Fund: Utilities Administration $592,634 Water Distribution System 979,634 Wastewater Collection System 862,350 Debt Service - Utility Fund 661,413 Transfers - Utility Fund 51,500 Total Utility Fund $3,147,531 Capital Improvement Fund: General Fund Transfer $37,750 Utility Fund Transfer 51,500 Total Capital Improvement Fund $89,250 Combined Total Expenditures $10,560,546
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Prom night for William Byrd High School will be Saturday May 15th. As is an annual tradition there will be an After Prom Party at the school following the prom. Juniors and Seniors as well as their prom dates are encouraged to come to the After Prom party. The After Prom committee of the PTSA is working hard to make this a fun and enjoyable event for those in attendance. Prom night has historically been a time when teenagers are at the most risk of mixing drinking while driving. An After Prom party is an excellent alternative to dangerous partying. This party will be chaperoned by parents and concerned community members who want to keep our students safe. In order to ensure that students stay alcohol and drug free while having a great time partying with their friends, prizes are offered to students who attend the parties and stay for the duration of the after prom night. The WBHS After Prom committee is joining with RAYSAC (The Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition) to choose 4 Seniors and 4 Juniors as well as 4 alternates to participate in the RAYSAC After Prom Grand Finale on June 6, 2010 at Valley View Mall. To be eligible to participate in the drawing for this a student must stay for the entire After Prom event. At the Grand Finale they will play some “wacky Olympic” games and be given a key to try for the grand prize vehicle. The WBHS After Prom Party is funded entirely through donations from area businesses and individuals. We are asking anyone who feels passionate about keeping our students safe to make a donation. This would be a great opportunity for WBHS alumni. To make a donation you may visit our booth at the Vinton Dogwood Festival or contact Susan Landrum at 540-977-3280 or either of the contacts below. Also the Grand Prize vehicle will be driven in the Dogwood Festival parade. The vehicle to be given away this year is a 2010 Nissan Sentra donated by First Team Auto Mall. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a WBHS student win this grand prize?! WBHS After Prom Chairpersons: Gladys Gensurowsky: gensurowsky@cox.net Connie Houff: CHouff@virginiawestern.edu Sonia McGuire: sonia.mcguire@cox.net
New Asst. Principal Named
CEMETERY For Sale, 4 cemetery plots in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park. Retail at $1400 a piece, will sell all 4 for $2900. Call 540-589-3936
CLOTHING Wedding Dress Size 8, never worn wedding dress with matching flower girl dress, slip, veil and sash. $500. Call 540-910-1203
It was announced late last week that Dr. Paul Lineburg has been named as the new Assistant Principal at William Byrd High School. Dr. Lineburg is currently the Assistant Principal at Cave Spring High School. He is the former Program Coordinator for Social Studies for Roanoke County Schools and he is a former teacher and coach at Cave Spring. His wife, Crystal, is a graduate of William Byrd High School and teaches in Roanoke County. Paul’s father (Norman) is a former teacher and head football coach at William Byrd High School. Crystal’s father (Paul Barnard) is a graduate of William Byrd High School and a retired teacher and coach from William Byrd High School. Crystal’s mother (Joy Barnard) is a retired teacher from William Byrd High School. Paul and Crystal live in the William Byrd school district.
Onzlee Ware
Member, House of Delegates Eleventh District
325 N. Jefferson Street Telephone: 540-344-7410 Part of Roanoke City and Town of Vinton Committees: Appropriations, Counties, Cities and Towns, and Education Paid for and Authorized by Delegate Onzlee Ware
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Walnut Avenue Bridge Replacement Town of Vinton Citizen Information Meeting Tuesday, May 11, 2010, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Town of Vinton Council Chambers Vinton Municipal Building 311 South Pollard Street Vinton, VA 24179
Danae Wensley Town of Vinton This month the Roanoke Valley said goodbye to a long, cold winter and is now enjoying temperatures in the 70s and above. With that warm weather comes many fabulous activities at the Vinton Farmers’ Market. We are currently seeking vendors for all of this year’s market events, but particularly the upcoming art and vintage markets. Now in its second year, the art market is home to many beautiful pieces in various styles, including stained glass, watercolor, jewelry, acrylic, fiber art, photography, oil and more. Whether you are a painter, photographer, jewelry designer or work in mixed media, the art market is wonderful, cost-effective way to sell your work. The first Art Market of the season will be held on May 15 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., with additional Art Market days scheduled for July 17 and October 16. Whether you are a homeowner looking for the perfect antique for your living room, a collector hoping to supplement what you already have or are looking to sell a few nice quality antiques, consider coming to the vintage market. Last year’s vintage markets were so popular that we have now scheduled one each month from April-November (minus October). Some of last year’s most popular items included antique utensils, jewelry, clothing, hats and even old movie reels. There will also be live music and food vendors to choose from. The first Vintage Market of the season took place on April 10 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Additional Vintage Markets are scheduled for May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11 and November 6. If you are in search of antiques or collectibles from a specific decade, check out the Retro Market, which specializes in things from the 50s-80s. This groovy event will feature fun music of the decades on the market stage and a classic car cruise-in. Retro evenings are scheduled to take place on June 18, July 16 and August 20 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. But by far the most popular market events are always the craft shows! This show and sale features a wide variety of handmade crafts and gifts by local crafters. Wood, fabric, jewelry, clothing, re-crafted items and more. There will also be a free craft activity for children. Crafts shows are scheduled for June 19 and August 21 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. As previously mentioned, we are seeking vendors for all our upcoming Farmers’ Market dates. Those interested should contact Mary Beth Layman at 540-983-0613 or mblayman@vintonva.gov. To apply, vendors must fill out a one-page application and pay $5 to reserve a space. There are a limited number of spaces available under the permanent canopy, with plenty of uncovered spaces available in the parking lot as well. For more information about the Vinton Farmers’ Market or the Town of Vinton, please visit our website at www.vintonva.gov. You can also find us on facebook, Twitter and YouTube by searching for “Vinton.”
Find out about the proposed project to replace the Walnut Avenue bridge over Glade Creek. The project will include removing the existing Glade Creek bridge and the construction of a low water bridge accommodating pedestrians and cyclists. The project extends from 0.14 mile west of 5th Street to 0.04 mile east of 5th Street. The bridge replacement will be designed to incorporate planned improvements to the Walnut Avenue corridor including sidewalks, curb and gutter and bike lanes. Review the proposed project alternatives depicting the major design features and potential detour alternatives at the citizen information meeting or at VDOT’s Salem District Office located at 731 Harrison Ave. in Salem, 540-387-5320, toll free 800-611-5812, or TTY/TDD 711. Please call ahead to assure the appropriate personnel are available to answer your questions. The tentative construction schedule is available for your review at the above address and will be available at the citizen information meeting. Give your written or oral comments at the meeting or submit them by May 21, 2010, to Mr. Richard L. Caywood, P.E., P.O. Box 3071, Salem, Va., 24153. You may also e-mail your comments to saleminfo@vdot.virginia.gov. Please reference “Walnut Avenue bridge comment” in the subject heading. VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need more information or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT’s Civil Rights Division at the above VDOT address or phone numbers. State Project: U000-149-103, P101, R201, C501 Federal Project - STP-5128(218) UPC: 76677
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Photos by Danny Cruff
Byrd students, community shine in classic love tale Last Sunday, I was part of the fortunate masses that has the opportunity over the course of the weekend to sit back at William Byrd High School and watch a collection of WBHS students and community members perform ‘Annie Get Your Gun.’ I will admit, this was my first full official experience inside the William Byrd Playhouse. I had seen some slight moments of rehearsal a couple of times this year while at the school and was able to witness some practice of this show last week, but knew I needed to go see the final product first hand and I surely was not disappointed. The things I noticed the most was also the thing that I noticed first and that was the strength of the interaction between these young performers. From the first time that Luke Fortner (Frank Butler in the show) and Christie Vernon (Dolly Tate) interacted, I was instantly sold. The comfort level between these two and others, especially Mackenzie Brewer (Annie Oakley), Tyler Wiggins (Tommy Keeler) and Daniel Spencer (Charlie Davenport) was amazing to me. I knew that alone would motivate me to put ‘pen-to-paper’ Dan Vance about the show in this week’s issue, but I really wanted to also know more about this interaction and if the actors themselves dan@vintonvoice.com felt this strength as much as I saw it...so I asked. “I feel like I bonded with the other characters especially Annie in this show. Mackenzie is a singer and so am I. We were told that we sing good together and I personally think there was a chemistry and because of that I feel like it helped increase the overall performance. I think it helps if you get along with the characters you are performing with. At Byrd we as a cast are a family we are always there for each other,” Fortner says. Vernon tended to agree. “The bond between cast members is always a pretty special and they change often from year to year. I’ve been doing this for about 6 years now and I had grown close to a lot of the older actors because I really looked up to them,” she says. “So now that I am one of the upper classmen the tables have turned a bit but I enjoy being a leader as much as a follower. It is very important to have those strong bonds with your fellow actors just because if the chemistry isn’t there in real life then it’s really hard to find it on stage. I love my theater friends! They have always been like a second family to me.” Like I said, the bond was evident, at least to me as I looked on, but knowing how much they actually mean to each other really makes it all that much more impressive and entertaining. Fortner mentioned the singing strength and it was something else that shined. I have never seen a high school play or musical where an ensemble group of singers meshed together so well for chorus oriented songs. Also, Brewer shined all on her own, which was something that Director Carol Webster noted on Sunday when recognizing her senior class. Now I have seen Mackenzie perform the National Anthem on several occasions this school year, but her tonality and range in Sunday’s performance was top-notch, especially during the song “You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun,” in the first scene. In the years I have been in journalism, I have seen a lot of stage performances on the high school, college and even professional levels but Webster has found great talent in each of her performers. They learn their characters well and really delve deep into them.
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“My character, Dolly Tate, was a real diva and I enjoyed to act like such princess but it definitely gave me perspective of way I don’t normally act like that in real life,” Vernon says. Fortner agreed that he had to take some leaps for his role as Annie Oakley’s love interest. “I do have to admit for a 15yr. old it took me a while to get into character since I was acting older. Frank’s character is nothing like mine, he is more of a suave and confident •See ‘ANNIE’ - page 10
Obituaries RAYMOND DAVIS MEADOR, 87, of Roanoke, Va., went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, April 28, 2010. Raymond proudly served his country in World War II, receiving the Combat Infantry Badge along with other medals; was an experienced and well respected land surveyor in the Roanoke Valley; a charter member of Mt. Pleasant Lions Club; former president of the original Mt. Pleasant Civic Club; former member of Brookhill Church where he served as deacon and superintendent of Sunday School; and a former member of Shenandoah Baptist Church. At his death, he was a member of First Baptist Church for more than 25 years and was a well loved member of the Bible Book Class. Surviving is his devoted and loving wife of 62 years, Claudine Absher Meador; his daughters, Elizabeth (Beth) Eads and spouse, the Rev. Dr. Jamie Eads, Teresa Walthall and spouse, Gary Walthall; his grandchildren, Leah, Mariah, Joel and Micah Eads, McKenzie Peck and spouse, David, Allison Walthall; greatgrandchildren, Joshua and Graceyn Peck; his brother, Claude Meador and wife, Dematris; his sister-in-law, Virginia Meador; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A special thanks to the staff at The Court of Roanoke, who lovingly cared for Raymond and supported Claudine for the past three years, Dr. Kye Kim and Dr. Julia Ewen of the VA for their compassionate approach to Raymond’s advancing disease. A graveside service, with Military Honors, was held in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park, Saturday, May 1, 2010, 10 a.m. with the Rev. John D. Cochran officiating. A memorial service followed at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church (Faith Chapel). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Raymond’s memory to Acts 2 Ministry, P.O. Box 4694, Roanoke, Va. 24015. The family received friends Friday 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 540-982-2221. THOMAS (TOM) DEWEY HACKNEY, 64, of Roanoke County, died Saturday evening, April 24, 2010 at his home. Tom was a devoted husband, father, and brother who will be deeply missed by everyone. He loved life and enjoyed traveling with his family and friends. Tom retired from Norfolk and Western Railway as a pipe fitter with 27 years service. He was preceded in death by his mother, Eula Gearheart Hackney; father, Sidney A. Hackney; sister, Mary Lee Liakos; and wife, Frances J. Hackney. Tom is survived by his son, Timothy (Tim) S. Hackney of Roanoke; devoted sister, Shirley M. Hackney of Roanoke; brother, Charles Wray and wife, Shirley of Roanoke; brother-in-law, Johnny Liakos of Roanoke; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Greg Taylor and Kathy Hilton, both of Franklin County. The family would like to thank all of Tom’s caregivers for all their care and concern for him during his illness. A funeral service was held at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, Thursday, April 29, 2010 at 12 noon with Pastor Bob West officiating. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Vinton. The family received friends Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel, 982-2221.
Photo by Melanie Meador CARL P. MANN JR., 74, of Vinton, Va., died on Monday, April 26, 2010. He was born in Gary, W.Va., on February 18, 1936, the son of the late Carl P. Mann Sr. and Lila K. Mann. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Rupert D. Mann. He was a graduate of American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Services Inc., NYC. Carl was a licensed funeral director and embalmer for 55 years. For over the last 50 years he was with Lotz Funeral Home. He has been a member of Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church since 1970. He was named Vinton Father of the Year. He was a member of the Vinton Host Lions Club receiving the Melvin Jones Fellow Award. He served on both the Vinton Life Saving Board and the Stewartsville Life Saving Board. Surviving are his wife of 52 years, Donie Stump Mann, of Vinton; two children, son, Charles (Chip) Mann and his wife, Connie, of Vinton; daughter, Carla Honaker and her husband, Brian, of Vinton; granddaughters, Mallory Elizabeth and MaKinzie Grace Mann; triplet grandsons, Grayson Carl, Colin Edward, and Brendan Charles Honaker; sisters, Delores Bonhotel and her husband, Albert, and Sarah Jones and husband, Cecil; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. on Friday, April 30, 2010, at Lotz Vinton Chapel. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 29, 2010, from 2 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by Lotz Funeral Home, Vinton Chapel. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.lotzfuneralhome.com. STENA D. EDENS, age 78, of Vinton, passed away Sunday, April 25, 2010. She was a member of the Vinton Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She was an avid listener to country music and loved to square dance. She and her husband attended many music festivals held at the Vinton Farmers Market. Surviving are her husband of 58 years, Donald R. (Don) Edens. A son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth Wayne Edens & Carol Edens. A daughter and son-in-law, Susie Blount & Barry Blount. Two grandchildren, Christina Edens & Bobby Edens. Funeral services were conducted at 10 AM Thursday, April 29, 2010 at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel with Bishop Jimmy Webber officiating. Interment followed in Evergreen Burial Park. The family received friends Wednesday, April 28, from 2 to 4 PM and from 6 to 8 PM at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel (9822221).
Law Office of Onzlee Ware
325 N. Jefferson Street Roanoke, Virginia 24016 Telephone: 540-344-7947
Practicing Bankruptcy, Criminal, Traffic and Family Law for 21 Years
VA State Licensed
•‘ELECTION’ continued from page 03 wearing throughout the day. Across town at Charades on Bypass Road, the mood was somber yet celebratory for Lyles, who came just 13 votes away from unseating Altice, 247 votes to 234 votes. Lyles was surrounded by friends and family at the restaurant for his election night party, shedding many tears but still trying to remain positive about the race he ran and the impact he may have had on future races in Vinton. Throughout the evening, Lyles received visits from other supporters, including faces recognizable to the political landscape of the area including WBHS guidance counselor Patrick Patterson, who fell short of a nod at office in November, and Roanoke Country School Board member Mike Stovall, who endorsed Lyles just one week ago. Lyles declined to comment to the Voice about the loss. “That’s a lot to ask one of your officials,” Hare said about the population getting behind him helping bring growth and change to the Town by putting him in the seat he had previously been appointed, not elected to. “You are putting trust in your livelihood, your property values. We obviously have the ability to affect the direction of the Town. That does make me feel good that people do trust.” Paul St. Clair, a fourth candidate who had to be written in, reportedly received 86 votes. Insured
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PHOTOS
Photos by Dan Vance Photos by Dan Vance (above) and Melanie Meador (right)
ABOVE: Saturday night brought Blue Grass music to the stage at the Farmers Market. RIGHT: The Vinton Library held their ‘Yack N Yarn’ event last Tuesday night.
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In preparation for their upcoming ‘SOL’ testing, students at Herman L. Horn took part in a pep rally last Friday, with their teachers as the entertainment. A rendition of ‘Thriller’, along with a Star Wars themed skit put the teachers in the spotlight. Joseph Fisher (above) and the rest of the WBHS pep band got the show started.
Varied Background and Focus on Family Makes Hinkle a Hit Chris Vail Terrier Times Staff Teacher, mentor, musician, Alaskan native and valet. All apply to William Byrd High School English teacher, Marc Hinkle. But, for him husband and father stand above the rest. Growing up in Kenai, AK, Hinkle was brought up in an environment of free spirit and acceptance of people from all parts of the world. “Academically, high school was very much the same. But I had teachers from Russia, Japan and all over the world,” said Hinkle. Being exposed to all different cultures and ways of life at an early age led to a great sense of understanding and tolerance. “We were all out there for the same reason. The parents had moved there with their children to live and experience Alaska,” said Hinkle. After high school Hinkle took a year off and traveled all across the U.S as well as parts of Canada by Greyhound bus and Airplane. The year-long trip, partially funded by Hinkle, was also funded by his parents, who saw the trip as, as much of an education if not more than the one received in high school. It is these many experiences that made Hinkle into the free-
thinking and morally strong man that he is today. After the year off, Hinkle took his studies to West Virginia University. There he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies and English. Followed by a Master’s Degree in Education. After college, Hinkle, who has been a life long drummer and musician, played drums for the band “Soul Inside” for several years. The band released a CD, but shortly thereafter he left to pursue a new interest - his soon to be wife. Hinkle was married and was faced with the decision of settling down and raising a family in either Alaska, or near his wife’s hometown of Greensboro, N.C. They eventually settled in Roanoke, Va. Hinkle still uses his musical background in class today. He “used familiar music and new ideas to connect with us better,” said WBHS senior Chris Beckman. “The song Ants Marching by DMB (Dave Matthews Band) was used to have us contemplate the deeper meaning of music.” The decision to leave his band, marry, and move to the east was one that greatly changed Hinkle’s life. “I didn’t choose teaching over the band; I chose marriage over it,” said Hinkle. So, does he have any regrets? “I’ve wondered what could have been before, my old
bandmate just sent me a new CD from Hollywood, and it’s good. I mean it’s really good,” Hinkle said..“But if I had stayed with the
band that would mean I would have never married my wife or had my children and that ends that thought immediately.”
Derrick Palmer...Chris Lawrence...Brad Grose... Firehouse S8 ‘N Play...Kacy Edsall...Mike Altizer...
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Remembering Carl Mann Pastor April Hall Special to the Voice Imagine going from Gary, West Virginia to New York City. Fulfilling a call to a vocation as a funeral director. Yet, this is what Carl Mann did. Back in the 1960’s Carl came to Vinton to work for Lotz Funeral Home. It did not take long for him to gain the trust of the people of Vinton and surrounding areas.
He was an important person for so many when time came caring for so many at the hour of death. One knew that he was called to this. He exercised compassion as we would come to make final arrangements for our loved ones. Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church was blessed to have him as a member. He served the church so faithfully. He served with me on Parish Care and helped the Columbarium Committee with its establishment. Not only was Carl a funeral
•‘ANNIE’ continued from page 06 ladies loving man. For this role I had to become for confident and more cocky for this role,” he said. And most people would ask, why would I be so impressed by actors doing what they are supposed to do? Well, very rarely on a high school or even college level do you find stage actors that pull off their roles as well as the cast of ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ did. Already this school year, I did see the one-act performance ‘Stage Kiss’ that featured Vernon, Wiggins and Brewer. I left that brief viewing of what WBHS drama had to offer (OK, so I guess ‘Annie’ was not my ‘first’ experience, just my first full length one) and really believed the three of them in their roles and as those characters. I left Sunday believing them as three completely different people. Really, most people may not understand how rare that really is for actors of this age range. Part of this sell is also in the facial expressions, which is where I saw Brewer and Fortner lead the way, but was also very impressed with Spencer’s performance. He was not the lead, but was such an important part of the show character wise and with his ability to bridge the gaps between any two other actors and/or characters. All this showed by the reactions and laughter from the audience. “I felt that Sunday’s performance worked better because it was the last performance for all of the cast and crew,” Fortner says. “Everything that we did finally seemed to come together as a team. The audience plays a big part in our show as they are very active and encouraging. Our energy feeds off of them and their responses during the show.” Much of the laughter came from the comically, yet monotone, in-character delivery of Mark MacCaden (Chief
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director but a family person. He was devoted to his wife Donie. The children, grandchildren were the “apples of his eyes”. I can remember when Thrasher’s Lively Citizens had a “Grandparent’s Shower” for Donie and him. This was when Carla was expecting the triplets. Carl was so excited to be a part of a baby shower. Grandparents needed items when the babies would come. Even in the midst of retirement, Carl would be at Lotz. Staff of Lotz, he enjoyed being with
Sitting Bull). I don’t think that anyone else in this show, as strong as they were, could have pulled this character off as perfectly as he did. Another of my favorite things was Annie’s siblings, portrayed by Mackenzie’s own sister Kalyn, as well as Rebecca Geisler and Aaron Nicely (the second two featured in a photo on page 06). They all played their roles great and Nicely especially leaved me entertained due to his interaction with the elder Brewer. “The cast and crew did a fabulous job with ‘Annie, Get Your Gun.’ It was especially wonderful to be collaborating with one of my former students as a director. Trey Mitchell graduated in 2002, and he inspired the students to see that they too someday can make it on the Great White Way, and hopefully, will come back home to their home community to give back.” Mitchell was just an added bonus to an already great show. To have a performer and choreographer of Trey’s ability and background return for this show was such a benefit. I saw him zone in during rehearsals and he added so much on Sunday to motivate the cast. “This show was a wonderful piece to finish out not only the year, but also for senior actors like Mackenzie Brewer, Tyler Wiggins, and Mark MacCaden. I wish them all a wonderful future as they pursue their dreams in performing,” Webster said. My assumption is that the future is bright outside of the WBHS Playhouse, as bright as they want it to be. As for the rest of the cast, I am just happy that I will be able to see them shine in the future because next year’s lineup already looks quite bright. The 2010-2011 season kicks off from October 7-10 with ‘Into the Woods Jr.’ a musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine. They continue with ‘Tom Sawyer,’ ‘The Jungle Fun Room’ and concluding with ‘Beauty and The Beast’ next May.
you. How difficult it must have been the past weeks. You served his family well. Remembering is so vital. I learned of his death on Facebook. Next, members of the Town of Vinton, surrounding communities learned of his death. Memories will be treasured forever. A gentleman who was dedicated, committed to serving the Lord in a special ministry. Family, thank you for sharing Carl with so many. May the Risen Lord comfort you.
Vinton Town Council May 5, 2010 Rundown --The meeting started with the regular roll call, Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. --The first part of the agenda included the request to re-appoint Town Manager Chris Lawrence to the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, which passed 5-0. --The Town was then recognized as a Tree City USA Community as noted by Lawrence. This is the eighth straight year that Vinton has been named as such as part of the Arbor Foundation’s National Effort. A recent study of trees and tree canopys in the town showed the rate of coverage at 38% vs. a 40% goal, which was reached with the recent planting at Tinker Creek. “That really helps us meet some standards that are out there for a healthy community,” Lawrence said. Over eight years, Valley Beautiful and the Town of Vinton have invested $30,000 in trees, including Dogwood Trees at Elementary Schools and Red Maple Trees at Public Works. Half of that amount came in a grant from the Forestry Department making the number of trees planted in Vinton in the past eight years right around 1,700 trees if counting the independently planted trees outside PFG. --In Citizens Comments, the successes and/or failures of the Dogwood Festival were discussed as solicited by Councilman Matthew Hare. Chamber of Commerce President Sabrina Weeks, Mary Beth Layman of the Town and Chris McCarty all spoke on the positive matters. Layman noted that despite some local concerns, ABC Agent Tiffany Johnson reported no negative reports or comments to her from the event. --Elaine Bays, the program director for Roanoke Valley TV discussed the proposed budget for Vinton programming, which passed 5-0. “I think that channel serves as an important outlet to get our information out,” noted Councilman Wes Nance.
A History of Vinton, Virginia, 5-of-5 Barbara Dillon Contributor In 1935 Vinton went to Town Manager from of government. G.W. Coleman was the first town manager, followed by Guy Gearhart and then others. At Gish’s Mill and other communities, with the war ended and reconstruction ended, there was progress once more. There was more time for socializing. Apple butter boilings, quilting parties, taffy pulls, corn huskings and square dancing provided fun for both young and old. In 1884 when Vinton became a twon, there had been man inventions and lots of them made living better. These included macadam streets, the bicycle, typewriters, steel plows, telephones, incandescent lights, sewing machines, elevators, rubber, gas, refrigerators and canned goods. Vinton’s first electricity came with the building of Niagara Dam in 1906. But you know what? I like gas and oil furnaces, automatic washers and dryers, computers, TV, lots of automobiles and telephones. I hope Vinton continues to grow for a long time. Add more and more businesses and more people and can help our heritage become something we can be proud of for a long, long time. Today we have may doctors, stores, gas stations, banks, many professional people and who knows when a new business or more new homes will be started. Our memories are great, but the future sounds even more exciting. Among many Vinton people who have become famous in the last few years include David Goode, president of Norfolk Southern Railway and Connie Booth, a New York TV announcer who even works for the White House, many excellent teachers, professors, business leaders, but most important, you and me, and our families who live here and each are building for a tomorrow that will be greater. Who knows, you might be the person who will be the electric light that will put us on the brink of something greater for tomorrow. I’m proud of Vinton and I’m proud to call it my hometown. This was written by Barbara Dillon in May of 2003.
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William Byrd Ath
MAY 2010 All games with split times are JV/VAR unless otherwise noted Wednesday May 5 Wednesday May 5 WBHS Softball (VAR ONLY) vs. Glenvar - 5pm WBHS Softball (JV ONLY) @ Glenvar - 5pm
WBHS Boys Soccer (VAR ONLY) @ Northside - 5:30pm WBHS Girls Soccer vs. Northside - 5:30/7pm WBHS Softball (VAR ONLY) @ Northside - 5:15pm WBHS Softball (JV ONLY) vs. Northside - 5:15pm WBHS Boys Tennis vs. Staunton River - 4:30pm
Wednesday May 12 WBHS Track @ Alleghany - 5pm
WBHS Softball ( vs. Alleghany - 5:15
Friday May 14 WBHS Baseball vs. Staunton River - 4:30/7pm WBHS Boys Soccer @ Staunton River - 5:30/7pm
WBHS Softball (VAR ONLY) @ Staunton River - 5:15pm
Saturday May 8 WBHS Track JV Invite - TBA @ EC Glass
WBHS Softball (JV ONLY) vs. Staunton River - 5:15pm *w*
Tuesday May 11 WBHS Baseball @ Lord Botetourt - 5/7pm
WBMS Boys Soccer vs. Ben Franklin - 4:45pm
WBHS Boys Soccer vs. Lord Botetourt - 5:30/7pm
WBMS Girls Soccer @ Ben Franklin - 4:45pm
WBHS Girls Soccer @ Lord Botetourt - 5:30/7pm
WBHS Baseball (JV ONLY) @ Northside - 5:15pm
WBHS Girls Soc @ Alleghany - 5:3
WBHS Girls Soccer vs. Staunton River - 5:30/7pm
WBHS Girls Tennis @ Staunton River - 4:30pm
Thursday May 6 WBMS Baseball @ Ben Franklin - 4:45pm
Friday May 7 WBHS Baseball (VAR ONLY) vs. Northside - 5:15pm
WBHS Girls Tennis vs. Alleghany - 4:30pm
Wednesday May 17 WBHS Girls Tennis BRD Team Semi-Finals - 2pm @ Walrond Park
WBHS Softball ( @ Alleghany - 5:15
WBHS Girls Ten BRD Team Finals @ Walrond Park
WBHS Boys Ten BRD Team Finals @ Alleghany
Wednesday May WBHS Girls Ten BRD Singles QTR/ BRD Doubles QTR @ Walrond Park
WBHS BoysTennis BRD Singles QTR/ BRD Doubles QTR @ Alleghany
Special Offer
Wednesday May WBHS Girls Ten BRD Singles Final BRD Doubles Sem @ Walrond Park
$15 off
WBHS BoysTennis BRD Team Semi-Finals @ Alleghany
Tuesday May 18 services totaling $150 or more WBHS Softball (VAR ONLY) WBHS Baseball (VAR ONLY) WBHS BoysTen vs. Lord Botetourt - 5:15pm @ Alleghany - 5:15pm BRD Singles Final Excludes tires and towing. BRD Doubles Sem WBHS Softball (JV ONLY) WBHS Baseball (JV ONLY) @ Alleghany @. Lord Botetourt - 5:15pm Coupon must vs. Alleghany 5:15pm be presented to Woods- Service Center at time of service. Limit one coupon per customer. WBHS Boys Tennis @ Alleghany - 4:30pm
WBHS Boys Soccer vs. Alleghany - 5:30/7pm
*w*
Special Offer
$10 off set of 4 tires. VOICE
Coupon must be presented to Woods Service Center at time of service. Limit one coupon per customer.
(VAR ONLY) 5pm
(JV ONLY) 5pm
nnis - 2pm
nnis
y 19 nnis /Semis - 1/5pm R - 3pm
s /Semis R
y 20 nnis ls - 1pm mis/Finals - 3/5pm
nnis ls mis/Finals
Friday May 21 WBHS Track BRD Meet - 3pm @ Lord Botetourt
WBHS Boys and Girls Soccer BRD Finals @ Northside If Necessary
Saturday May 22 WBHS Track BRD Meet - 9am @ Lord Botetourt
WBHS Softball BRD Finals @ Alleghany If Necessary
Monday May 24 WBHS Baseball, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, Softball BRD Play-in Games #5 at #4 (TBD)
Wednesday May 29 WBHS Track Region III Meet - 9am @ EC Glass
Tuesday May 25 WBHS Baseball BRD Semi-Finals @ Staunton River
Monday May 31 WBHS Baseball, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, Softball Regional Play-in Games If Necessary
Wednesday May 26 WBHS Boys and Girls Soccer BRD Semi-Finals @ Northside If Necessary WBHS Softball BRD Semi-Finals @ Alleghany If Necessary Thursday May 27 WBHS Baseball BRD Finals @ Staunton River
Photo by Melanie Meador
Photo by Melanie Meador
ccer 30/7pm
Photo by Danny Cruff
hletic Schedules
Photo by Danny Cruff
Wednesday May 28 WBHS Track Region III - 3pm @ EC Glass
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Taking ‘Steps for Billy’ around Vinton >Roanoke Rampage football team, Billy’s sister Alice Obenchain-Leeson make strides in raising money for Duke program and awareness of rare form of Cancer
Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief The ability or strength to continue. That line comes as part of the definition of the word ‘endurance.’ Endurance is a word and an act that means much to Alice Obenchain-Leeson and the rest of her family. After all, they spent years watching her brother and longtime Vinton Councilman and Roanoke Fireman Billy Obenchain endure a tough form of Cancer. “They say ‘oh he persisted,’ ‘he gave a good fight,’ he did all of that stuff, but the thing that amazed me about him was he simply endured,” Obenchain-Leeson says. “He put one step in front of the other and he was always taking those steps forward and that gave me encouragement.” The endurance of Billy helped Alice come up with an organization before his death that would allow her to give back, in part with just plain old endurance. “This past summer when Billy’s medicine really stopped working for him, I started thinking about something that I could do positive energy wise, something to honor his life and something to help other people who had the disease,” she says. At that time, she was looking to find a way to combine honoring Billy and his endurance, distance walking and Duke University, which is where Steps4Billy was born. Distance walking, something ObenchainLeeson has been getting into and honoring her brother (both at that time in his battle and now in his memory) were no brainers. But so, as she will tell you, was marrying that concept with the CTCL/Cutaneous Lymphoma Research and Treatment Center at the Duke Medical Center, where Billy was treated for years after his diagnosis. “It’s the work of Dr. Olson and the CTCL Clinic at Duke and the grace of God that Billy endured as long as he did,” Alice says. “I really believe with all my heart that he was able to get into some trial drug programs, he was able to work with one of the best in the world, yet they struggle everyday– they endure to find that
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File Photo
cure.” So as Billy did and the staff at the CTCL Clinic, Alice will now endure as she officially kicks off Steps4Billy on May 10. The first fund raising event for Steps4Billy is a 100 mile walk with the goal to raise $10,000 for the CTCL/Cutaneous Lymphoma Research and Treatment Center. Obenchain-Leeson and Dr. Carole Ann Creque, a family friend, will walk 100 miles during the week of May 10-16 around the Roanoke Valley. This event will begin in Vinton and traverse through places that were special to Billy, including his church, the schools he attended and all Roanoke City Fire Stations. “That kind of mirrors endurance...Billy endured for nine years,” Alice says. The step off time for the event is 7:45 am on the 10th at the Vinton Fire Department. The first day will be walked in Vinton, to all of the places that meant something to Billy. Alice notes that she tried to let Billy be the last person know about her plan because of how worried he would be about her safety. “When I sat down to tell him about it, he already knew. Never could I get anything past him,” Alice says with a reflective smile. “Never.” When she told him the path she wanted to talk, he told her he instead wanted her to walk the places that meant something to him, starting with the firehouse and including (but not limited to) the Town Council chambers, the former Roland E. Cook Elementary, the Dogwood, Famous Anthony’s, William Byrd High School and Billy’s house.
Tuesday morning, they will start out with 15-17 miles per day through the Roanoke City Fire Stations, as mapped out by Billy’s son Zak. The event and the organization will also hopefully raise awareness Alice says. Awareness not only of the work being done, but also for early diagnosis where applicable. Obenchain-Leeson says that the disease often presents itself as a skin condition like eczema or dermatitis, and the signs of a more problematic condition are not always apparent. “Every person, where I have said I am raising money for Cutaneous t-cell lymphoma, they are like ‘what?’ Alice notes. “They know the lymphoma part...if I could just get 1 out of 1,000 people to say ‘you know, I’ve heard that name before,’ that’d be great because it starts there, even getting people to say the phrase with you.” In addition to the big planned walk, the Roanoke Rampage (a football team made up of Fire and Rescue workers from Roanoke) has made Steps4Billy their charity of choice this season and will give money from ticket sales to Alice and the organization to send directly to Duke. “They literally dropped out of the sky,” Alice says. “I had know idea what the Roanoke Rampage was.” The long term vision for Steps4Billy is that it will grow into a full blown, nonprofit organization, with numerous annual activities dedicated to educating citizens and organizations in the Greater Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia about CTCL.
Everybody Reads the Voice
Photo by Bootie Bell Chewning
Pat Irby and son Zack Irby take a look at the April 21 Issue while working Bingo for Miss Virginia,
showing that even when you should be yelling out ‘B-21’ or ‘0-6’....Everybody Reads the Voice.
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Photo of Jo Stickney vs. Alleghany by Melanie Meador
Photo by Danny Cruff
Photo by Danny Cruff
Photo of Nicole Frey at Lord Botetourt by Melanie Meador
Photo by Danny Cruff
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Photo by Melanie Meador
Photo of Gary Walthall by Dan Vance
Photo by Melanie Meador
Photo of Brittany Lane by Danny Cruff
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Girls win 2-of-3 to keep District lead
Mutt Strut Ad b&w 4col x 9_Layout 1 3/12/10 10:38 AM Page 1
May 22 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Wasena Park, Roanoke, Va. Free admission Contests include: Best in show* Best trick Dawg/Owner look-a-like Smallest Largest Best costume Best kisser Ugliest dog Canine cake walk
Carilion Clinic Hospice Mutt Strut Join us for a fun day in the park with contests, parades and much more. The Mutt Strut is fun for the whole family and all proceeds will support the Carilion Clinic Hospice patient fund. This fund provides additional support to our patients and their families. Don’t miss the chance to meet our pet therapy dogs, shop at our vendor market and enjoy face painting, pet photography and the “Blessing of the Paws.” All dogs are welcome!** Carilion Clinic Hospice provides symptom management, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support for terminally ill patients of all ages. *For more information, please visit www.CarilionClinic.org/muttstrut
Carilion Clinic Hospice Sponsored by:
**All dogs must be leashed and have proof of rabies vaccination
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After losing their first District match of the season last Monday at Alleghany, the girls tennis bounced back on Friday to top Northside 5-4 in a clutch BRD match. “Northside was a tough day for us, the girls had played two matches that week so we were coming off a long string of play. We as a team struggled in making unforced errors that cost us points over and over again,” said Coach Amanda Stump. Singles wins for the Terriers came from Taylor Patterson (number-two), Allena Willard (number-five) and Tiffany Hodges (number-six). Patterson dropped her first set but battled back to win the second and take the tiebreaker 10-7. In doubles, the second and third seeded teams of GraceAnna Chaney and Patterson and Brittany Lane and Hodges were victorious. “ We came out of singles 3-3 and I was a little nervous but the girls pulled it out after a slow start in doubles,” Stump said. “Both teams did a great job of playing hard tennis so it could have turned out differently if the girls hadn’t played tough.” Against Alleghany, the team fell in an equally close match, losing 4-5. The match came down to the number-two doubles team of GraceAnna Chaney and Holly Thomas after Patterson was sidelined after her singles loss with a minor injury. The team got wins from GraceAnna Chaney, Willard and Tiffany Thompson, as well as the Hodges/Lane duo. In the middle of the District contests was a makeup with Glenvar that ended 7-2. Due to Patterson’s Alleghany injury and an illness for Holly Thomas, the team had to shuffle their lineup some. Alex Harris moved in at number-six singles and also played at number-three doubles alongside Julie Ensor. GraceAnna Chaney, Willard, Hodges and Lane all moved around in their singles seeding as well. “We moved the line up around a little and were able to give Alex and Julie an opportunity to play seeded matches. It’s always good when you are able to take a little break from District matches to get some fresh players in there,” Stump said.
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Mahoney gives up runs, stays perfect Danny Cruff Senior Contributor The Terriers Softball team took to the road last Wednesday (April 28th) to take on the Highlanders of Glenvar High School. The non-district game was a make-up from earlier in the season. Senior Rachel Ballard was on the mound for Byrd, giving regular starter Jessica Mahoney a break prior to Friday’s match-up with Blue Ridge District foe Alleghany. The Highlanders jumped to an early lead, scoring four runs in the home half of the first inning. Glenvar wouldn’t look back and kept the lead from that point on. “We did nothing to support her (Ballard) at all,” a frustrated Head Coach Greg Barton said after the game. “We were flat on offense and defense and just could not get anything going.” William Byrd did garner ten hits of their own, but could only get three runs across the plate. Sophomore Catcher Danielle Powell led the Terriers, going 4 for 4 at the plate. Ballard, who gave up eleven hits in the loss, worked to help her own cause at the plate by knocking in two of the Terriers’ three runs. The last day of April had William Byrd on the road again to face the Mountaineers. This contest would pit both undefeated teams in the Blue Ridge District against each other, where only one would be able to boast that claim at the end of the night. Byrd’s ace Jessica Mahoney was back on the mound. Kristin Rose led the way for Alleghany with a double and two runs. Yes, runs. In all, the Terriers gave up three runs in the game to bring
Photos by Danny Cruff
ABOVE: Coach Greg Barton has a word with his team as they continued non-District struggles last week at Glenvar. RIGHT: Rachel Ballard winds up to throw a pitch in the loss. Jessica Mahoney’s shutout streak to an end, and the possibility of her first loss of the season. William Byrd took their turn at bat in the seventh inning down three to one to the Mountaineers. Danielle Powell led the inning off by drawing a walk, followed by a walk by senior Jamie Green. Jessica Mahoney stepped to the plate with two on and no outs, herself the run that would put the Terriers in the lead. Showing her prowess at the plate, Mahoney blasted a fastball over the centerfield fence to put Byrd on top four runs to three. The pitcher would then strike out the side in the bottom half of the seventh to secure the victory and first place in the BRD.
“We never gave up and kept offensive pressure on them all night,“ Barton said later, “We put ourselves in a position to win and win we did. I’m very proud of my girls and the way they kept their composure was amazing.” Alleghany (3-2, 11-5) would also lose to Northside (2-2, 13-2) later in the week to fall a full two games behind the Terriers (4-0, 12-3) in the Blue Ridge District. Jessica Mahoney’s amazing shut-out streak was brought to an end after eleven straight shutouts, fourth all-time in the state of Virginia. In the win, Mahoney gave up only three hits and the same number of walks, while striking out ten. William Byrd takes has a
rematch of last Wednesday’s game tonight. This time, the Terriers take on the Highlanders at home. BRD action continues Friday night, when Byrd heads to Northside to take on the Vikings.
Highfill’s soccer team continues struggles The William Byrd boys soccer team continued to struggle this past week in Blue Ridge District play after blowing out Northside in the district opener. The Staunton River Eagles made the short trip to Vinton Tuesday, April 27th with an identical 1-1 record in the BRD. The Route 24 rivals played a hard fought, evenly matched game, which tested both teams’ endurance and fortitude.
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Both teams scored two goals each in the first half, with junior Nick Leffell and senior Philip Gilmore scoring Byrd’s goals. Ten minutes into the second half, Eagle Ian Campbell found the net for the final goal of the game, bringing down the Terriers in the process. Friday, April 30th, brought the long road trip to Alleghany High School where the Terriers would take on the Mountaineers. Two well-matched teams, Byrd and Alleghany
played a hard-fought first half. Both teams had multiple chances to score, but could not come up a goal. The second half was a rewind of the first, with both teams fighting hard, but to no avail. In the end, William Byrd picked up its second tie of the year, going to 1-2-1 in the Blue Ridge District. BRD play continues this week, with Byrd on the road traveling to Northside Friday May 7th and Lord Botetourt Tuesday May 11th.
Hill breaks hit-streak record in split >Bowles strikes out 10 batters, pitches complete game in win at Golden Eagles; team effort falls short, 8-7, in District Play during Friday evening showdown with Alleghany Dan Vance Editor-in-Chief
Photo by Melanie Meador
Junior Chad Hill breaks record vs. Alleghany.
William Byrd continued a nasty trend last Tuesday night, stranding 10 runners on base, but Kevin Bowles more than made up for it on the mound, propelling the Terriers to a 4-1 win at Staunton River. Bowles pitched all seven innings, giving up three hits and walking three batters while striking out 10 and improving to 5-1 on the season. The senior right hander had the number of most of the Golden Eagles, striking out nine of the ten different batters he faced throughout the night. Through six and a third innings, his variety of pitches had helped Byrd record 10 consecutive outs. On offense, Bowles hit the ball hard, though went 0-for-4, including a shot in the third to the deepest recesses of centerfield. He wasn’t alone in coming close to finding the plush spot over the wall– both Ray Harron (3rd inning) and Jacob Clifton (4th) sent shots deep into the warning area that were caught. On the other hand, those who hit the ball to left-center were a little more successful. Dallas Chocklette and Aaron Stidham both notched solo homeruns in the 6th and 7th innings to add some insurance to what was a 2-1 Byrd lead. The homer was Chocklette’s only hit of the day and the first shot of his varsity career; Stidham was 2-for-3. Senior Jacob McMillan helped lead the offensive fire for Byrd, going 2-for-3 with a double and single. His recorded out came on his second at-bat, a shot into left field that amazingly stabbed by the Staunton River shortstop. Jacob Clifton was 2-for-4, while Devin Cassity and Jo Stickney recorded the other two Byrd RBI. Chad Hill, who walked in his first two plate appearances, singled in his final at-bat to extend his hitting streak to 14 games and tie a school record. On the defensive end, Byrd made a great play
in the first with a relay from Cassity to Harron to Stidham to get an out at the plate, helping to continue to minimize damage when the pitchers get into trouble. “We didn’t have any superstars, it was a team effort to score four runs– and it was enough that night, it may not be enough another night. Everybody with the exception of Ray and Bowles had a hit and that’s a positive side going through District play,” said co-head coach Chris Carr. On Friday afternoon, the team returned to action to kick off alumni weekend against the visiting Alleghany Mountaineers. The day started gloomy for the Terriers as McMillan gave up six runs on six hits in the first inning and right away, the perfect District run seemed over. But, much as the Terriers have done all season, they bounced back with RBI singles in the first from Clifton and Stidham in the first and one from Hill in the second. Stidham drew a walk in the second to make the score 6-4. “Several games, we’ve gotten down early and battled back. That’s one thing about this team, they are going to make you get 21 outs, we are going to hit all game regardless of what the score is,” Carr said. Hill’s second inning single, his only hit of the day, put him alone in the school record books for consecutive game hit streak at 15. “I think it’s big for him, I didn’t have an idea he had a streak until the Staunton River game,” Carr said, while noting the biggest hit of his streak was his suicide squeeze against Botetourt on April 23. “He made that great bunt even knowing the hit steak was on the line, willing to sacrifice to get a huge win for the team.” After McMillan’s first inning struggles, the Byrd coaches went to their “bullpen” and pulled Harron from shortstop to pitch for the remaining six innings of the game. During that time, Harron gave up just two hits (a single and homerun in the fourth) and struck out four Mountaineer batters. •See ‘BASEBALL’ - page 20
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Photo by Melanie Meador
Baseball Alumni gather for weekend Last weekend, alumni of the William Byrd baseball program gathered for their annual alumni weekend, an event coordinated by former head coach Gary Walthall. The events kicked off Friday as the current Terriers battled the Alleghany Mountaineers, falling 8-7 in Blue Ridge District action. Several former players were in attendance, including 1997 graduate Chris Manning, who was filling in for Walthall for radio coverage of the game on ESPN 1240AM. On Saturday, the major events kicked off with a homerun derby as defending champion Shannon Gray (Class of 1994) surrendered his crown to Nick Jones (Class of 2000). The two were part of 35 former Terriers that played in the Alumni Game, homerun derby or both. “Fun was had by all. There were no injuries, just some sore bodies, proving they do still have muscles because as one said, fat does not get sore,” joked Walthall. Jones was joined in the finals by Matt Reynolds (Class of 1992) and Nick Baker (Class of 2003). Jones hit four homeruns in five atbats in the second round for the win. In the first round, he hit three and finished with 15 points, tied with 2009 graduate Andrew Minnix, but Jones won the tiebreaker by hitting more homeruns. Reynolds dominated the opening round, crushing five homeruns and accumulating 35 points (Baker was second in the opening round with 17) with shots sailing well over the leftcenter wall into the trees in the distance. Gray finished with four points, failing to put any over the wall. He jokingly co-held the
•‘BASEBALL’ continued from page 19 “We knew he could get outs, but I didn’t expect six inning worth of outs. For a kid who’s not thrown more than two (straight) innings all year, for him to come in and only give up two hits is a positive, it proves to us that he can pitch when we need him this year,” Carr said.
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plaque for this year’s derby with Jones during the group photo before the game. The plaque, in memory of Billy Spraker (Class of 1984), who passed away August 30, 2007 of esophagus cancer, was eventually taken home by Jones. During the game itself, teams were divided pitting the ‘orange’ versus the ‘maroon.’ Doug Pence (maroon) and Gene Riggs (orange) took the managerial duties on. The maroon team jumped to an 8-0 lead and cruised to an 8-2 victory. Five maroon pitchers held the orange to seven singles. Three singles by Josh Herman (Class of 1992) and two hits by Brian Jones (Class of 1996) led the way for the orange team. Herman also pitched an inning of scoreless relief. Brian Spraker (Class of 1998) pitched two scoreless innings for the orange. The losing pitcher was Reynolds, coming all the way from Simpsonville, South Carolina to get the ‘L.’ Neil Zimmerman (Class of 1999) started for the maroon on the mound and had two scoreless innings and four strikeouts while Larry Light (Class of 1987) struck out 2-of the-3 batters he faced. The maroon offense was led by Chuck Spraker (Class of 1994),who doubled and singled and Brian Rickerson (Class of 1997), who had two singles. Dean Bushnell (Class of 1980) had the only other extra base hit, a double. “In an oddity, there were no doubles or triples in the game this year,” Walthall said. “I guess age does have an effect on the outcome.” Honorary captains for the day were Todd Adams (Class of 1992), serving in the U.S. Army Special Forces and Billy Stickney (Class of 2008), serving in the U.S. Marines. Both
are currently spending their springtime in Afghanistan. “We will be mailing them a game shirt and a card signed by many of the players,” Walthall noted. “Thanks guys for doing what you do so we can have the freedom to do what we do.” The 3rd spring fund raiser golf tournament was held at Blue Hills on Sunday and was a huge success with 23 teams, according to Walthall. First place went to two Terrier baseball graduates, brothers Bo Stevens (Class of 1985) and Jeff Stevens (Class of 1988). Dana Stevens, teacher at Mt. Pleasant and Byrd graduate and David St. Clair were also part of the team that was 13 under.
Heading into the seventh down 8-4, Byrd answered with the heart of their order. Harron and Clifton each singled and Stidham walked to load the bases with no outs. For Clifton, it was his second hit of the game, but the fourth time he walked (he was also hit by a pitch and reached on an error). After Bowles struck out, the freshman Cassity doubled in two runs to give the Terriers hope. “Where other teams fall off 6-8, we’ve
got some parts down there that can be interchangeable for guys we have hitting in the top of the order,” Carr noted. Hope however was fleeting as Hill ended the game hitting into a double play after Stickney had walked and Chocklette reached on an error to load the bases again. The Terriers return to action on Friday for a 5:15 start against the Northside Vikings in a pivotal District meeting.
Photo by Danny Cruff
Mark Shepherd (Class of 1992) fouls off a pitch during Saturday’s game.
Photos by Dan Vance (left) and Danny Cruff (above)
Photos by Melanie Meador (above) and Danny Cruff (top)
TOP: Brian Jones (tag) and Ryan Caya (background), both Class of 1996, cutoff Nick Jones in a rundown early in the Alumni Game on Saturday afternoon. ABOVE: Sophomore Easton Riggs reacts after he picked off an Alleghany runner on Friday night. An 8-7 loss for the Varsity was the official kickoff to the annual Alumni Weekend.
TOP: Coach Gary Walthall, the coordinator of the weekend, awards Nick Jones (Class of 2000) with the plaque signifying Jones’ win in the homerun derby. ABOVE: Terry Kelly (Class of 1977) swings during homerun derby. Kelly was the oldest of the participants Saturday. RIGHT: Class of 1994’s Shannon Gray tees off on a Par3 at Blue Hills on Sunday during the weekend’s golf tournament.
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Runners hit best marks at tough VMI Meet The William Byrd Track and Field teams had a busy week, starting last Wednesday as they visited Lord Botetourt to do battle with the District foes the Cavaliers and Northside. On Saturday, the teams visited VMI to take part in a large meet. “VMI is a very competitive meet and it is the largest meet we will attend this year,” said boys coach Eric Royal. “We had several runners step up and run personal bests.” Best came from Kevin O’Connor (2:02.08-9th) and Chris
Boyd (2:02.95-11th) in the 800, and Jonathan Murphy (52.78-13th) in the 400. The girls team also saw some personal bests ran at VMI with Kayla Thomas in the 400 (1:02.158th), Kara Kingery in the 1600 (6:04.89-15th), Stephanie Ashwell in the 3200 (15:10.93-35th) and Kimberly King in the 300 meter hurdles (1:00.14-34th). The Byrd boys 4x400 team of O’Connor, Murphy, Josh Williams and John Mooney placed ninth in 3:40.56, just 21 seconds removed from the first place team
of Albemarle. Patrick Henry’s team finished seventh at 3:36.35. The Terriers got another shot on Tuesday afternoon as the teams competed at Patrick Henry, but results were unavailable as of press time. The track and fielders will be back in action next Wednesday at Alleghany for the varsity and Saturday the JV teams will participate in a meet at EC Glass. Photo by Melanie Meador
John Mooney passes a Cavalier runner during a relay race last Wednesday.
Byrd controls own destiny after strong start to 2nd half of BRD On Tuesday night, Byrd improved to 6-o in the Blue Ridge District with a 7-2 win at Lord Botetourt. “Maturity. Experience. Patience. Players possessing these attributes often prevail, and tonight was no exception,” Coach Jason Perdue said. Byrd seniors Brennan Escobar and Joseph Davis patiently and steadily overwhelmed their opponents to help Byrd jump ahead 2-0 in singles. Botetourt clawed back into the match with wins at three and four singles, but sophomore Bryce Martin won at five singles to keep his district record unblemished. Will Trent closed out singles play with a convincing win at number six. Northside visited William Byrd on Friday to kick off the second half of the Blue Ridge District tennis season. In the first meeting, Byrd prevailed 7-2 in a match more competitive than the final indicated. On Friday, a focused Terrier squad dispatched the Vikings 8-1 for their sixth straight win. Escobar (number-one singles) displayed ‘a flurry of aggressive ground strokes,’ according to Coach Perdue, to win in just under 30 minutes. Davis (numbertwo singles) and Martin (number-five singles) overwhelmed their opponents winning 6-2, 6-0 and 6-0, 6-2. Trevor Perdue (number-four singles) and Trent (number-six singles) controlled their matches throughout to complete a near-sweep of the singles side with the only loss coming from Jim Fisher. The Terriers did topple the Vikings in doubles, winning all three. The win came two days after the Terriers picked up a non-district win against the Glenvar Highlanders. “Adversity imposes it’s will without regard for your state of readiness, and
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Photo by Melanie Meador
Brennan Escobar dominated on Friday in a win over Northside that helped keep the Terriers poised atop the Blue Ridge District. adversity invaded the Byrd courts this evening in the form of a very good Glenvar Highlanders team looking for redemption from an early season 6-3 Byrd victory,” coach Perdue said. The teams emerged from the six singles matches tied 3-3, as four of the six singles went to tiebreakers, with each team claiming two of the four tiebreakers. Adversity introduced herself to the Terriers when Tim Howard and Nick Trinchere (Glenvar) defeated Escobar and Perdue at one doubles, putting the Highlanders on top 4-3 with only two and three doubles remaining. Joseph Davis and Jim Fisher (Byrd) responded emphatically with an 8-0 win at two doubles. Bryce Martin and Will Trent (Byrd) gained late control of a tense and emotional three doubles match and prevailed 8-5, sending the Terriers to a gutty 5-4 victory.
Route of Alleghany helps put Lady Terriers back on track With the postseason nearing, Coach Russell Dishman and the Lady Terrier soccer team are firmly in control of their own destiny as they move towards a meeting Friday at home against Northside. A win would tie the Terriers and the Vikings for third place in the District with three games left and the potential to avoid a 4-5 play-in game when the Blue Ridge District tournament comes rolling around. The Terriers are in this position after a 9-0 dominating win on Friday against Alleghany. The Terriers picked up the win with three goals from Kirsten Webber, who recorded a hat trick for the second time this season. Leading scorer Kelli Kitchens scored twice, while Emily Hanna and Haley Overstreet each scored a goal and added an assist. Even with nine goals given up, Emily Depriest made 12 saves for Alleghany, showing just how powerful Byrd was when bringing the ball onto the offensive side of the field. Of the team’s four wins of the season, this was their third shutout, also winning 4-0 and 8-0 over Bassett. Three days earlier, the Terriers struggles putting the ball in the goal in a 3-1 loss to Staunton River, also in District action. Jodi Salyer scored three goals, while Amy Salyer finished with two assists for the Golden Eagles and Moria Guzi made 18 saves. Webber scored the lone goal for William Byrd.
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•‘CONNER’ continued from page 24 30 pounds to his 180-pound high school frame. He was a passing quarterback, and his college teams enjoyed much success. Ferrum went 8-3 and 10-1 while Conner was there, losing only to Liberty in the 1979 season. Ferrum had captured a national championship in 1977, the year before Conner arrived. Carson-Newman won a national championship in its division in 1983, but by then Conner had graduated. “We had good seasons both years I was there,” he says. By the time Carson-Newman won its national championship, Conner had married the former Lisa Zimmerman, who had graduated from Byrd in 1977. “We were high school sweethearts,” Conner says. Conner entered the insurance business in 1982, a profession where he has excelled for 28 years. For the past few years, he has represented New York Life. “I like to represent my client for what’s best for him or her, not necessarily what’s best for
the company,” he explains. Conner specializes in company retirement plans; on the individual level, he ensures that his clients’ personal financial planning is on track for their longterm success. Conner has been very active in the Vinton Chamber of Commerce for some time, and through that association, he has joined the Roanoke Civitan Club, where he concentrates on coordinating the team sportsmanship awards for football and girls’ basketball. Just last week, the Byrd girls’ basketball team won this year’s award, besting 54 other schools worked by the Western Virginia Basketball Officials Association. (The Vinton Voice covered that
event and Melanie Meador’s photos and essay adorned the back page of last week’s issue.) It was strictly a coincidence that Byrd won the award this winter, as the past two years the winners have been Hidden Valley and Lord Botetourt, respectively. Conner remains a faithful Byrd follower, however, as his three children are Terrier graduates. Jackie, 27, lives in Richmond with her husband, Brian Gardner, and they are expecting their first child in a few weeks; Jamie, 24, lives at home and works for Valley Bank; and John, 19, is a student at Roanoke College. Like his dad, John Conner was also a three-sport athlete for Byrd, playing football, basketball and baseball. “John has the distinction of playing on districtwinning teams in all three sports,” Conner says. Although Conner set a track mark that has stood the test of time, he did not pursue that sport has avidly as football. He placed fourth in the high jump in Group AA state competition both his junior and senior years, and also was a competent hurdler. But part of the reason Conner lost interest in track was that he found it was not a priority sport at Ferrum. “We went to away meets in our own cars,” he says. Quite a difference from the treatment accorded programs that are competing for national titles, as Ferrum and Carson-Newman did in football. As a fan, Conner has seen a longtime follower of the Philadelphia Eagles. But while his track days are on the distant horizon, you can only assume that Conner will indeed check the weekend paper and see if his 6-foot10 effort, performed during the era of Jimmy Carter, 8-track tapes and leisure suits, remains the all-time record in the Cosmopolitan high jump. “My biggest regret,” he says, “is that I didn’t try 7 feet.”
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Voices of the Past
Anthony Conner:
High Jumper Extraordinaire As track fans turn their attention to the Cosmopolitan Track Meet set for Salem High School this weekend, more than a passing interest will be given to the high jump – where a 32-year-old record is in danger of falling. William Byrd High School jumper Anthony Conner, an 18-year-old senior in 1978, cleared 6 feet, 10 inches in that celebrated competition more than a generation ago. Although the meet has been conducted year in and year out, no one has equaled Conner’s feat before or since. Conner is now a 50-year-old insurance executive who continues to have strong Vinton ties. “This might be the year [my high jump record] is broken,” Conner says. Of course, he’s said that before, numerous times. But this season, it may not be an idle threat. Glenvar senior Philip Martin cleared 6-9 at the Cosmo a year ago, before failing in three attempts at 6-10. This season, Martin’s best jump to date is 6-8. It’s a good bet that if the opportunity presents itself, he will at least give 6-10 a try. To fully appreciate the longevity of Conner’s mark, consider that one of the most hallowed records in sports, Babe Ruth’s 60 homers in a single season, stood for 34 years until Roger Maris broke it with 61 in 1961. Maris’ mark then stood for 37 years itself, until it was surpassed by Mark McGwire’s 70John A. Montgomery home run season in 1998. When you’re jmonty@cox.net mentioned in the same breath with sports figures of that magnitude, you know you’ve accomplished something. No other mark in Cosmopolitan Track Meet history has lasted longer than Conner’s. Conner obviously enjoyed an outstanding track career at Byrd, but by no means was he one-dimensional; in fact, he was a three-sport starter. He earned nine varsity letters in grades 10-12. He played quarterback for coach Don Oakes, “not long before Jeff Highfill came in,” earning a second-team (Roanoke) Timesland selection his senior season when the Terriers posted a 6-4 mark. Conner was a 6-foot-2 senior center for coach Roland Malone’s basketball team that advanced as far as the regional finals. “I was a role player in basketball,” Conner emphasizes. “Those were the Mickey Hardy years.” (Hardy, a prolific scorer, went on to be an outstanding basketball player at Ferrum and Virginia Tech; today he is the boys’ basketball coach for William Fleming High School, Group AA state champions in 2007.) Conner says his best sport probably was football, as after high school he played quarterback for two seasons at Ferrum Junior College, under legendary coach Hank Norton; and two more seasons at Carson-Newman in Jefferson City, Tenn. for coach Ken Sparks. “College football was a learning experience,” Conner says. “It was a big difference from high school. They say the people are bigger and faster – and they are -- and things are done a little differently.” Conner quickly added
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•See ‘CONNER’ - page 23