November 1, 2023
Volume 3, Number 38
Wytheville honors volunteers
In October, the Town of Wytheville honored its many volunteers with an appreciation event held at the Wytheville Meeting Center. Volunteers were honored with a heavy hors d’oeuvres reception and the presentation of special resolutions by
Wytheville Town Council as well as door prizes. Council Member Holly E. Atkins gave the Welcome and Opening Remarks. During this time Atkins stated, “Our Town volunteers make it possible for the Town to provide many of the
services and activities that our citizens enjoy. We have many volunteers who work selflessly at the Cat Shelter, the Department of Museums, and the Department of Parks and Recreation. We also have volunteers who gladly give countless hours to
serve on our Town committees, boards, commissions, and authorities. The value of your precious time to our Town and the community is immeasurable, and the Town Council is very happy to be able to recognize all its volunteers this evening. Thank
you for your hard work and dedication as well as the impact you leave on others and our community. I know our community is a better place because of you. Thank you for being the light!”
See VOLUNTEERS, Page 3
Wellspring announces grant fund awardees
DCR cuts ribbon on Inn at Foster Falls
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) cut the ribbon at the new Inn at Foster Falls, located within New River Trail State Park. The full-service Inn is the first of its kind within the Virginia State Parks system and offers 10
unique rooms for overnight guests, stately banquet and meeting rooms, a catering kitchen and beautiful twostory porches. “This historic building played an important role within the Village of Foster Falls for more than 70 years,
and now, it has been given a new purpose as a part of the Virginia State Parks system,” said DCR Director Matt Wells. “The Inn at Foster Falls is where the past meets the
See INN, Page 5
The Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia is proud to announce the successful completion of its first-ever grant application cycle, resulting in the commitment of over $7 million in funding to 13 deserving organizations. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the Foundation’s mission to enhance the health and wellbeing of residents in Washington, Grayson, Russell and Smyth counties. The grant application cycle, which ran from January to February 2023, generated a tremendous response with 30 submissions seeking a combined total of more than $15 million in funding. The Wellspring Foundation’s Board of Directors, alongside the dedicated staff, engaged in comprehensive evaluations and discussions to determine the most impactful projects to fund with the greatest potential for long-term sustainability. Marvin Gilliam, Chair of the Wellspring Foundation Board of Directors, expressed his satisfaction with the community’s enthusiasm, stating, “We were pleasantly surprised to see such tremendous interest in our first grant cycle. The Board of Directors and staff spent significant time thoroughly reviewing each application to ascertain funding approval. It is clear we have numerous
See WELLSPRING, Page 3
WCC announces board member retirement
Wytheville Community College (WCC) announces the retirement of Dr. Oliver McBride, from the WCC College Board of Directors.
Dr. McBride, a dedicated and esteemed member of the Board for two full four-year terms, was recognized at the September 2023 board meet-
ing at the Wytheville campus. Mr. Malcolm Brown, WCC Board Chair, and Dr. Dean Sprinkle, WCC President, presented Dr. McBride with a
formal retirement resolution that recognized McBride for his years of outstanding service and commitment to the college.
Dr. McBride holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Richmond, and an EdD and MEd from the University See WCC, Page 3
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November 1, 2023
SwVa Sun
Serving Bland, Smyth and Wythe counties.
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Lifestyles n Entertainment n Get Out and Go Friday, Nov. 3 Lincoln Theatre: Tayla Lynn and Tre Twitty, grandchildren of Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty, are delivering their iconic grandparents’ super hits at The Lincoln Theatre at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets are $100. Premium seating is $52, orchestra is $43 and balcony is $37. Tayla Lynn and Tre Twitty have country music in their blood. The grandchildren of famed duo Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty, the two have taken to the road to honor their grandparents in an intimate evening of music and storytelling as only they can tell.
Saturday, Nov. 4 Millwald Theatre: Joslyn & The Sweet Compression are coming to the Millwald Theatre, Saturday, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m., bringing their soul and funk sounds to Wytheville. After cultivating her dynamic voice and performance skills in backup roles and stage plays, Joslyn Hampton teamed with her stepfather, Marty Charters (a touring guitarist and songwriter who has shared the stage with legends such as Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, and Van Morrison), to compose a captivating set of tunes and assemble an ace band. Joslyn & The Sweet Compression (Kasym Moldogaziev- Guitar, Isaac Stephens – Trumpet, Tyler Papierniak – bass, Rashawn Fleming – drums, Trevin Little – saxophone, and Sam Richardson – Keyboard) combine to deliver a hook-filled mix of funk and soul on their self-titled debut album, released in 2019. A headlining favorite at regional clubs and music festivals, they are poised to engage fans across the country with widespread touring in 2023.
November 3December 23 Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner
Theatre: A Wohlfahrt Haus Christmas Carol closes out the 2023 season for the Wytheville theater. Charles Dicken’s beloved characters come to life with a Wohlfahrt Haus twist in “A Wohlfahrt Haus Christmas Carol.” Scrooge, a wealthy miser goes on a journey Christmas Eve night with four ghosts to examine how his choices and actions in the past and present will affect his future as well as the true meaning of Christmas.
Friday, Nov. 10 Lincoln Theatre: Celebrate the 50th anniversary with $5 admission to the 1973 classic “Paper Moon.” The show begins at 7 p.m. A traveling Bible salesman is tasked with taking an orphaned girl to her family. The two have more in common than they first realize and after becoming a quick pair of con artists the orphan is loath to give the life up. Millwald Theatre: Based out of Roanoke, Fleetwood Mac cover band Gypsy Nix plays with the spirit and wonder of Stevie, Lindsey, Christine, Mick and John. They’ll take the stage at 8 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 17 Lincoln Theatre: Get ready to buzz with laughter along with legendary comedian Killer Beaz at 7:30 p.m. Premium seats are $55, orchestra and balcony tickets are $38. Killer Beaz has his own unique brand of “Hard Hitting” – “Laugh out Loud” – “Laugh A Lot” – “HI-PROOF” – “High Energy” – “Everyman” style humor that appeals to any audience. When asked, Beaz says about his shows, “I love the art of stand-up comedy! Having been given the opportunity to make people laugh and smile for all these years is truly a blessing!” With many thousands of radio, television, and stage ap-
pearances, Beaz has been entertaining audiences for over three decades.
Saturday, Nov. 18 Millwald Theatre: The Darkside Experience visit the Millwald at 8 p.m. Pink Floyd has long resonated as one of the greatest pioneer groups in classic rock. The landscapes and dreams they generated with their music have touched numerous generations with a longevity that still finds new ears. Their songs have touched countless hearts, shaped blissful experiences, and etched memories deeply into our souls. The Darkside was born out of a mutual love and respect for the music of Pink Floyd. The band is excited to bring the life and experience of Pink Floyd’s music to the area in a live arena. The Darkside Experience includes some of the valley’s most talented musicians. Lincoln Theatre: Good Shot Judy is bringing swing and swagger to the Lincoln stage at 7 p.m. Grounded in the swinging cadence of the big band era, Good Shot Judy boldly ventures wherever whimsy leads them. The big amp jazz band brings melodic muscle to every show, fueled by revelers young and old who eagerly follow them on an exhilarating ride through this golden age of music. Premium seats are $25 with orchestra and balcony $20 and students and senior tickets $15.
Friday, Dec. 1 Downtown Marion: Santa Claus is coming to town. At 7 p.m., Marion will hold its annual Christmas parade, with the big guy making an appearance at the end.
Saturday, Dec. 2 WCC: Soprano Leslie Mabe will join the Rainier Trio at 7 p.m. to play Christmas favorites at Snyder Auditorium at Wytheville Community College.
Millwald Theatre: Hank, Pattie and the Current will bring their soulgrass sounds and holiday tunes to the Millwald on Dec. 2 at 8 p.m. Bluegrass ambassadors Hank Smith and Pattie Hopkins Kinlaw join forces once again with their original and energetic new soulgrass band, Hank and Pattie. Hank and Pattie take bluegrass and infuse it with their own flair, drawing from a melting pot of styles including classical and Motown, which adds up to an authentic and unique reflection of American music. While some of the music sounds old school and some sounds fresh and new, their overall musicianship, vocal harmonies, impassioned delivery and innovative arrangements captivate all generations of music lovers. Hank and Pattie are backed by an all-star band comprised of Carolina musicians Stevie Martinez on Bass and vocals and Billie Feather on guitar.
Sunday, Dec. 3 Lincoln Theatre: The Church Sisters return to the Lincoln at 3 p.m. to share their favorite Christmas tunes. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Marion, adult tickets are $22 and senior and student admission is $17.
Saturday, Dec. 9 Lincoln Theatre: The Isaacs are bringing their Christmas show to the Lincoln stage at 7 p.m. Premium seating is $58. Orchestra tickets are $47 and balcony $30. Children tickets are $30 to $40. Multifaceted awardwinning group The Isaacs have spent five decades creating the undeniable family harmonies and distinct sound that have made them a favorite among audiences everywhere. After touring in 2023 with Reba McEntire, The Isaacs are excited to return to The Lincoln Theatre to perform their
Christmas show.
Sunday, Dec. 10 Lincoln Theatre: Don’t be Bah-humbugging. John Hardy is bringing is oneman version of a Christmas Carol to the Lincoln at 3 p.m. Hardy plays more than 40 roles in the show. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. From the first moment of the play until the last, Hardy never leaves the stage and he never changes costume. How then, does he manage to portray over forty characters? “Well, that’s the reason it is a difficult play to act. The characters are defined by variations in accents and speech patterns as well as physical traits. Most of the time, when acting in a play or a film, an actor has the job of creating one character, and that is difficult enough, but forty? It’s a big job, to say the least. That challenge is also the reason this production is a unique event. Even if an audience member has seen a previous production of A Christmas Carol, they have not seen it done like this.” This project was supported [in part] by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
Saturday, Dec. 30 Lincoln Theatre: If you don’t see this show, you’re flirting with disaster. After 40 years, Molly Hatchet is still out there working, playing and living fast. On Dec. 30, they’ll be on the Lincoln stage at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets are $120. Premium seats are $58, orchestra are $42 and balcony $37. With VIP tickets, you’ll enjoy special seating directly in front of the stage or front row in the center section, sweet treats and a beverage of choice, and a private meet-and-greet with the artists!
E&H performs ‘Old Turtle and the Broken Truth’ The Emory & Henry College Theatre Department announces an enchanting, family-friendly upcoming performance of “The Old Turtle and the Broken Truth.” This heartwarming and thought-provoking musical adaptation, based on the book by Douglas Wood, with a book by Catherine Bush and music and lyrics by Dax Dupuy, is set to grace the stage on Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and on Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. This captivating production will take place at Emory & Henry College in the McGlothlin Center for the Arts in the Black Box Theatre and promises to be an event for all ages to cherish. “The Old Turtle and the Broken Truth” presents a profound tale that revolves around the shattering of a “truth” that falls from the sky, splitting into two pieces. In the wake of this division, the vil-
lagers hold onto only a portion of what is true, threatening to disrupt the tranquility of their otherwise peaceful world. It is Little One who embarks on a quest to reunite the broken truth and seeks the wisdom of an old, trusted friend and the support of numerous creatures from the animal kingdom. This poignant and musical adaptation serves as a timeless reminder of the utmost importance of seeking understanding and unity in our lives. Sarah Crockarell, the director of this captivating production, expressed her deep appreciation for the story’s message. She shared, “Old Turtle and the Broken Truth was originally a children’s book written by naturalist Douglas Wood in 2003. In 2015, Catherine Bush and Dax Dupuy adapted this book for the Barter Players, and their musical has gone on
to have productions across the country. When I read this book to my six-year-old for the first time, he sat straight up in bed and stared at the pages, enthralled. It has been delightful to find that all of us involved in this production, from the actors to the designers to the crew, share a genuine love for this exciting and meaningful musical. We are overjoyed to be able to share this story with you. May we all open our hearts, see the beauty all around us, and see ourselves in each other.” Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this beautifully crafted musical that encourages us to embrace empathy, understanding and the significance of unity. Tickets are available for purchase online for $15 at www.ehc.edu/mca/tickets, or you can contact 276-944-6333 for more
Governor sets rules for schools on overdose reporting In response to nine student overdoses at a Loudoun County high school just last month, Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order Twenty-Eight. While the Loudoun County Public School division
reportedly waited more than 20 days to notify parents to the overdose incidents, Governor Youngkin is taking immediate action to enhance prompt parental notification. The order directs the Virginia Department of Education to issue guid-
ance ensuring school divisions notify all parents of school-connected overdoses within 24 hours, work closely with law enforcement to prevent overdoses, and enhance student education about the dangers of abusing drugs.
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NEWS
November 1, 2023
Wellspring: Foundation awards grants From Page 1
organizations that are working hard to tackle tough regional issues and truly want to improve the health and wellbeing of Southwest Virginia communities.” The grant recipients and associated projects span a range of vital areas, including health, children and families, workforce development, education and economic development. The Wellspring Foundation is thrilled to support these initiatives that closely align with its vision and mission. Gilliam continued, “We applaud each organization that took the time to submit an application for Wellspring Foundation’s initial grant cycle. We wish we could fund every worthy endeavor, but our charge is to be responsible stewards of the assets that have been entrusted to our care while also ensuring the future of the Wellspring
Foundation of Southwest Virginia. On behalf of the Wellspring Foundation Board of Directors, I’d like to congratulate the grant recipients.”
2023 Wellspring Foundation Grant Recipients: 1. Abingdon Cycling, Inc. – Great Knobs Trail System Amount: $318,000.00 2. Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Center – Dental Center Expansion Amount: $707,500.00 3. Communities In Schools of Appalachian Highlands – Building Transformative Relationships to Shape Tomorrow’s Communities Amount: $227,380.00 4. DePaul Community Resources – Supporting Children, Families, and Individuals with Disabilities through DePaul’s Essential Services Amount: $10,000.00 5. Fairview Housing
Management Corporation – Mended Women Lifestyle Recovery Amount: $200,000.00 6. Grayson County, Virginia – New River Connected Amount: $14,813.34 7. Isaiah 117 House – Washington County, VA Isaiah 117 House Amount: $25,000.00 8. Russell County, Virginia – Dante Steam Building Restoration Project and Bernie Williams Workforce Center Amount: $113,877.00 9. United Way of Southwest Virginia – Regional Workforce Development and Childcare Center Amount: $4 million (over 4 years) 10. United Way of Southwest Virginia – Shared Services Alliance (support for childcare providers) Amount: $364,534.00 11. Virginia Highlands Community College – Advanced Technology and Workforce Development
Center Amount: $1 million 12. Virginia Mental Health Access Program – REACH Program Pediatric Mental Health Training for Virginia Primary Care Providers Amount: $10,000.00 13. Washington County, Virginia – Mendota Community Center Amount: $20,000.00
Sean McMurray, Executive Director of the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia, shared his excitement for future funding possibilities. “We are honored to be able to support so many meaningful projects,” said McMurray. “As we continue to grow, we hope to have an even larger pool of available funds for distribution. This will allow the Wellspring Foundation to support more projects with longterm impact in the future, which is an exciting pros-
pect for the communities we serve.” The Wellspring Foundation’s 2024 grant cycle will feature two applicantaccessible categories: the HOPE grant and the IMPACT Grant. The HOPE (Helping Others Pursue Excellence) grant is designed for organizations requesting one-time funding of up to $25,000 for a project. Organizations with qualifying projects may apply for a HOPE grant and applications will be considered until program funds budgeted for the fiscal year have been distributed. The IMPACT (Investing in Meaningful Projects Advancing Community Transformation) grant is designed for organizations requesting either a one-time or multi-year disbursement of funds for projects totaling more than $25,000. The IMPACT grant application
will have a dedicated application window that will be open once per year. For both the HOPE and IMPACT grants, the Wellspring Foundation accepts applications from eligible not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities in the Virginia counties of Washington, Grayson, Russell and Smyth. The Foundation’s grant application areas of focus include health, children and families, workforce development, education and economic development. Qualified applicants can apply for grants for new programs, current programs, or establishing/investigating new services. Applicants must serve to benefit Washington, Grayson, Russell or Smyth counties while supporting, promoting and/or furthering the Foundation’s vision and mission.)
Wytheville plans veterans events Nov. 10, 11
Make time in November to honor and celebrate our local veterans by joining two special events.
As a new twist on the traditional ceremony, the Wall of Honor Committee encourages citizens to attend a Veter-
ans Parade beginning at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 10, at Spiller Elementary School. The parade route will follow First Street to Monroe, Main and Tazewell Streets with an ending destination on Spiller Street at Withers Park. At approximately
10 a.m., a ceremony will begin in Withers Park featuring music by the George Wythe High School Band and the Spiller Fifth Grade Choir. Guest speaker for the event will be Donald E. Elmore, United States Army.
The following day, Saturday, Nov. 11, the Historic Millwald Theatre will be the location of a special free showing of the movie “MAX” beginning at 7 p.m. This family-friendly presentation is the story of a military dog that helped United States Marines
in Afghanistan who returns to America and is adopted by his handler’s family after suffering a traumatic experience. Citizens are invited to attend these events and help honor those who have served our country in the military.
Appalachian poetry focus of coffee night at UVA Wise
WCC:
From Page 1
of Virginia. In 2007, he retired from Carroll County Public Schools where he served as Division Superintendent. Dr. McBride served as the Executive Director of Crossroads Institute in Galax from 20072015. He is a current member of the WCC Community Choir.
Dr. Dean Sprinkle expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. McBride, saying, “Oliver McBride has been a valuable asset to our College Board. His tireless efforts directly impacted WCC student lives, and for that work, we are eternally grateful. We wish Dr. McBride a well-deserved retirement.”
Volunteers: From Page 1
She concluded with the words of Helen Keller, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Would you like to volunteer to serve on a Town of Wytheville committee, board, commission, or authority? There are current vacancies/upcoming vacancies for the following: Building Code
Appeals Board, Recreation Commission, Economic Development Authority, and the Tree Advisory Committee. Please contact Sherry Corvin, Town Clerk, for more information (276223-3349 or sherryc@ wytheville.org). The application that must be completed is online through the OpenGov portal on the Town’s website.
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) is set to debut the fall edition of the Jimson Weed, the College’s literary journal at their semi-annual Coffee Night celebration with author and poet Felicia Mitchell. Coffee night will take place on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 6:30 pm in the Rhododendron Room on the fifth floor of the C. Bascom Slemp Student Center. The event is co-sponsored by the College’s Language and Literature Department, Communication Studies Department, the lecture committee and Jimson Weed. The debut of the fall edition of the Jimson Weed will feature writers and performers from the College and surrounding community. Contributors to the new edition of the Jimson Weed come from Lavonne Baker, Neva Bryan, Mike Samerdyke, Aden Lane, Ashlee Taylor, Autumn B. StoverBailey, Caroline Barb, David Stewart, Ellianna Kudirka, Jacob Sparkman, Jeanie Brehl, Joe Bently, Laura Miller,
Noah Looney and more. Mitchell will also present a lecture entitled “Nature and Environment: Who Gets To Be An Appalachian Poet?” on Friday, November 10 at 1:00 pm in the Chapel of All Faiths. The lecture will examine the notion of Appalachian geographical identity and explore its potential to extend to both native and non-native writers from the impact of nature and the environment we have in common. The talk will conclude with a chance for the audience to reflect on personal definitions of what it means to be Appalachian, and how to write from the heart. Both the Coffee Night celebration and the lecture are open to the
public. Mitchell will also meet with students earlier on Thursday, November 9 for a private, mini workshop. Mitchell is the author of two major collections of poems, Waltzing with Horses (Press 53); A Mother Speaks, A Daughter Listens: Journeying Together Through Dementia (Wising Up Press); and a chapbook, The Cleft of the Rock. She also is a former columnist for the Washington County News. Her poems have appeared in journals and in many anthologies, including Rewilding: Poems for the Environment (Flexible Press), Mountains Piled Upon Mountains: Appalachian Nature Writing in the Anthropocene (West Virginia University Press), and The Southern Poetry Anthology, Volume IX: Virginia (Texas Tech Press). Along with her poems, Mitchell has published scholarly articles and edited a book titled Her Words: Diverse Voices in Contemporary Appalachian Women’s Poetry (Uni-
versity of Tennessee Press). She has also written about experiences as a breast cancer survivor for Cure Today and has recently been featured at the 2023 Virginia Highlands Festival Writers & Readers Days, July 28-29. Mitchell is Professor Emerita of English at Emory and Henry College after retiring in 2020. She is also an avid hiker that volunteers with the Mt. Rogers Appalachian Trail Club, leading hikes and helping with the monitoring of rare plants. One of her poems about a hike with her son, “Up from Tumbling Creek,” won an award from the Poetry Society of Virginia and is included in the Virginia Metrorail Art Project in the D.C. area. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Carolina at Columbia and her Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin. A native of South Carolina, she has made her home in the mountains of Southwest Virginia since 1987.
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Obituaries Joyce Ann Barker Joyce Ann Barker, 83, died Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023, at her home in Marion. Barker was born on Nov. 27, 1939, in Glen Rogers, West Virginia. She is preceded in death by her parents Jessie and Myrtle Ferguson Church; husband Max Barker; son Douglas Barker; brothers Edward Church and wife, Eleanor, and Robert Church and wife, Dorothy; and sisters Judy Belton and husband Art, and Christine Church. She loved working with her plants and flowers. She also enjoyed watching birds, especially cardinals. She is survived by her three children, Teresa Rose and husband, David, of Roanoke, Eugene Barker of Marion and Angela Prater and husband, Scott, of Chilhowie; grandchildren Michele Barker, Alisha Hutchinson, Jessica Rose, Jonathan Rose, Jordan Prater and Madison Prater; great-grandchildren Zoey Hess, Blake Hess, Hunter Hutchinson, Chandler Hutchinson and a very special great-grandson Byron Rose; brothers John Henry Church & wife Esperanza, and Buddy Church & wife Kathy; sister Dorothy Boyette; several nieces and nephews to include special nieces and caregivers Belinda Church, Sharon Church, and Brittany Holstein; and Devin Dowell who she thought of as her own grandson. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 4, from the Bradley’s Funeral Home Chapel in Marion with the Rev. Mike Sage officiating. Interment will follow in Thomas Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 -8 p.m., Friday evening at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh. com. Bradley’s Funeral Home of Marion is serving the Barker Family.
Harold Blackwell Harold Blackwell, 74, died Monday, Oct. 30, 2023 at his home in Marion. Blackwell was born in Abingdon and was preceded in death by his mother Sarah Jane Gross; his first wife, Evelyn “Betsy” Blackwell; second wife, Carol Blackwell. He retired from Visador after 28 years of service and enjoyed fishing. Survivors include his
children Kenneth Blackwell, Jeffrey Blackwell, Rhonda Blackwell, Brian Blackwell, Tanya Spencer and Derek Blackwell; brother William D. Gross Jr. and wife, Jennifer Gross; and numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at Bradley’s Funeral Home in Marion with the Rev. Herman Cress and Ronnie Blevins officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 1-2 p.m. Interment will follow in Walkers Creek Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home is serving the Blackwell family.
Betty Lou Garrett Rouse DeBoard Betty Lou Garrett Rouse DeBoard, 80, died Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, at Wythe County Community Hospital in Wytheville. DeBoard was born in Smyth County to the late Paul Hayden Garrett and Mary Virginia Freeman Garrett. She worked for the Davies County, North Carolina, as a deputy sheriff matron and also for the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office. She will be remembered for her work as a florist for over 40 years. She recently had been learning to fish. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. Survivors include her husband, William Sterling DeBoard; children Steve Rouse and Donna, Susan Cadle, Robin R. Holt and William Scott MacDonald and Mark Anthony Rouse and Betsy; grandchildren Patricia Cadle, Nick Rouse, Sean Rouse, Mary L. Martin and Richard Stewart Martin Jr.; great-grandchildren, Gracie Cadle, Niko Lau, Celest Ivy Grace Lau, Ethan Martin and Joanie Beth Martin; and beloved dogs, Daisy and Duke. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at Bradley’s Funeral Home in Marion with the Revs. David Freeman and Paul Shallenburg officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Interment will follow in South Fork Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www. bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home of Marion is serving the family.
Tommye Jo Hays Tommye Jo Hays, 68, died Oct. 28, 2023, in Hillsville. Survivors and arrangements will be announced soon. To share memories of Tommye Jo Hays, please visit www.seaverbrown.com.
Addison Lee Jones Addison Lee Jones, 72, of Austinville died Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Born April 20, 1951, in Pulaski, he was the son of the late John Addison Jones and Alene “Shupe” Jones. He was a good friend and a dedicated husband and father, who loved his church family at Round Knob Church of Christ. He loved quarter horse riding. He was a horse trainer and he had received several trophies and ribbons when he was younger in horse shows. He was a heavy equipment operator and a logger. He lived life to the fullest. He never met a stranger. He would and did talk to everyone and always spoke his mind. He loved his grandchildren, Speck, his dog and Oreo his cat. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Joyce Jones of the home; one daughter, J.J. Jennings (Andy) of Ivanhoe; his sister, Diane Sutphin (Dean) of Blacksburg; two grandchildren, Nikki Jennings of Ivanhoe and Drew Jennings of Iowa; one niece Sarah Brown (Brandon) of Charlotte North Carolina; and special friends, Bill Meyers and Peaty Austin who were like brothers through his whole life. Reese Funeral Home is serving the Jones Family.
Rev. Raymond Drew McPeek Rev. Raymond Drew McPeek, 71, of Rural Retreat died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, at his residence. He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, on Dec. 19, 1951, the son of the late Raymond Theodore McPeek and Helen Louise Grice McPeek. He was a retired United Methodist Church minister and had retired from the US Army, Signor Corp. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patti A. McPeek; children Raymond Drew McPeek, II of Christiansburg, Isaac Samuel McPeek
(Amy) of Barnesville, Ohio, and Christopher Timothy McPeek of Rural Retreat; grandchildren Joshua Levi McPeek and Ian Arlin McPeek; sisters Victoria Louise McPeek of Rochester, New York, and Antonette Rae Cotturone (Pat) of Suffolk, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will held 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at Rural Retreat Baptist Church with the Rev. Jason Vanover officiating. Interment will follow with Full Military Rites at 1 p.m. at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, 5550 Bagging Plant Road, Dublin. The family will receive friends from 9 to 10 a.m. Lindsey Funeral Home, Rural Retreat, is serving the McPeek family Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.highlandfuneralservice.com.
Robert “Bobby” Pruitt Robert “Bobby” Pruitt died Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, at home. Pruitt was a loving husband of 52 years, a great dad and papaw to his favorite people in the world. He loved his family and enjoyed his time with them. He retired from Textron in Wytheville after many years. He will be missed. He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Annie Mae Pruitt; siblings, Violet Sheppard, Kent Pruitt, Harvey Pruitt, Linda Goodwin, Betty Harmon, Patsy Pruitt, and Jim Pruitt. Pruitt is survived by his wife, Norma Pruitt; daughter, Ranissa Aker and husband, Brian, of Abingdon; sisters Dorothy Shepherd of Christiansburg, Joanne Gwyn of Lincolnton, Georgia, Monnie Barker and husband, Larry, of
Marion and Mary Osborne of Marion; brothers Arthur Pruitt and wife, Frances, of Claremont, North Carolina, and Charlie Pruitt and wife, Pat, of Atkins; grandchildren, Kayla Woods and husband, Shane, of Adwolfe and Aleksander Aker of Abingdon; great-grandchildren, Eli, Ian, Ema and Elijah; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Childrens Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105, would be appreciated. To share memories of Robert “Bobby” Pruitt, please visit www.seaverbrown.com.
Johnny Crockett Shipwash Johnny Crockett Shipwash, 82, of the Piney community died Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. He was born March 5, 1941, in Wythe County, the son of the late John and Lucy King Shipwash. He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters. Shipwash is survived by his wife, Louise Porter Shipwash; son John Shipwash of Rural Retreat; sisters Gail Shipwash Habina, Linda Shipwash Habina and Sandra Shipwash Linkous; grandchildren Johnathan Shipwash, Jenna Alderman, Jeremy Rowlett, Joseph Shipwash, Rylan Buck and Noah Shipwash; great-grandchildren Brylee Rowlett, Saylor Alderman and Miller Alderman; several nieces and nephews; and many extended family and friends. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, in the Reese Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Matt Linkous officiating, the family will receive friends one hour prior to service
time. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.highlandfuneralservice.com The Reese Funeral Home in Austinville is serving the Shipwash family.
Jerry Clayborn Six Jerry Clayborn Six, 74, of the Little Creek community died Monday, Oct. 30, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Clayborn and Geraldine Collins Six. While Six left us far too soon, the impact he had on our lives will be felt for years to come. His mission was to ensure you had a smile on your face from one of his inappropriate jokes or that you were gauging on one of his farts. Jerry had some close calls the last few decades but survived them all (up till now anyway) ,he had so many stories we couldn’t tell if he was lying or if he was a cat with nine lives but he did have the scares to prove it. He liked you or he didn’t, it was black or white. As his children, we are still trying to figure out which one it was for us (we know he loved us). It was the school of hard knocks for us kids. Yes, we were told many times how he had to walk for miles in a blizzard to get to school, so suck it up. We also loved how he got fancy things when we left, why buy a wood splitter when you got two kids to do it, when child labor was legal or so we were told. He was a master cook in the kitchen. He believed his cooking was the best, but he would always let mom do the cooking. Jerry had a big heart it may have been black sometimes, but every so often, you could tug on
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Obituaries From Page 4
it and make him take you on a fishing trip. He loved his family and cared for them through good times and bad; We know he did his best. Six will be sorely missed he is survived by his wife, Debbie, and children, Trista, Adam, Jason, and Crystal. The family will receive friends from 2 until 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at the Barnett Funeral Home. Per Jerry’s wishes there will not be a service. Online condolences may be sent to www. highlandfuneralservice. com. Barnett Funeral Home, Wytheville, is serving the Six family.
Gardner T. Umbarger III Gardner T. Umbarger III, 66, died Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Marion. Umbarger was born in Homestead, Florida, the oldest of four boys. Childhood years were
spent near Lexington, Virginia. He attended Washington & Lee (B.A. 1977), Lynchburg College (M.Ed. 1989), and University of Kansas (Ph.D. 2000). He married Lynne Judy at Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church, Lynchburg in April 1992. Umbarger was a loving father to Jonnie Dresdon and grandpa to Desi. He was a proud and decorated Army Medical Service Corps officer, serving before, during, and after the Gulf War; he was Honorably Discharged with the rank of Major. Umbarger taught severely impaired students in the classroom before becoming a Professor of Special Education at Bowling Green State University (Ohio), and Saginaw Valley State University (MI). He served on the Boards of many agencies for special education and health policies in the U.S. and Southwest Virginia. He was preceded in death by his father, Gardner T. Umbarger Jr.; mother, Ann Swee-
ny; brothers, James Umbarger and Scott Umbarger. He is survived by his wife, Lynne Umbarger of Marion; daughter, Jonnie Dresden of St. Paul, Minnesota; grandchild, Desi; brother, Eric Umbarger of Middlebrook, Virginia; and five nieces and nephews. He is also loved and cherished by his numerous ZBT brothers. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 4, at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 115 South Church Street, Marion VA 24354, with the Rev. Dr. James Bennington officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Washington & Lee University (204 W. Washington Street, Development Building, Lexington VA 24450); University of Kansas Endowment Fund directed to Special Education and BEACH Center (Gift Processing Dept. KU Endowment, PO Box 928, Lawrence KS 66044-0928); or Emory & Henry College directed to School of
Health Science (Office of Advancement Emory & Henry College, PO Box 950, Emory VA 24327). To share memories of Gardner T. Umbarger III, please visit www. seaverbrown.com.
Cledith Mae Widener Cledith Mae Widener, 79, died Oct. 29, 2023. She was born on Sept. 3, 1944, to the late Earl Horton and Flora Horton. She is also preceded in death by two brothers, Rodney Horton and Crockett Horton. Widener set an example of being a hardworking and strong woman. She was dedicated to her family and always put them first. She was an avid reader and loved westerns. She had the most contagious laugh and was kind to all. Survivors include, her husband of 28 years, David Widener; daughters Laura L. Lester, Tina Lester Jones, Anna M. Fields, and Crystal Regan and husband, Jeff; stepson, Josh Widener and wife,
Heather; brother, J. Bill Horton; sister, Patsy Keen; grandchildren Ashley Tate, Adrienne Jones, Joshua Jones, Kaylee Jones, Lindsey Widener, Corey Sherlock and Cody Keesee; great-grandchildren, Bella and Emilio; special niece, Tammy Walls and many other nieces and nephews. The family would also like to acknowledge Judy Frye, whom she loved like a daughter. Burial was at Rose Lawn Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh. com. Bradley’s Funeral Home of Marion, is serving the family of Cledith Widener.
Walter “Johnny” Lee Wyatt Walter “Johnny” Lee Wyatt, 70, died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. Wyatt was born in Rich Valley to the late Garland and Violet Terry Wyatt. He is also preceded in death by his wife, Lou Wyatt. He is survived by two children, April Stone
and husband, Pete, and Garland Wyatt and Ashley Quesenberry; grandchildren Kacey Wheeler and husband, Benjamin, Dakota Wyatt and wife, Cammie, Marshall Mayberry, Haley Mayberry, Logan Wyatt, Conner Wyatt, Kyleigh Wyatt and Emmalou Wyatt; great-grandchildren Zaden Wheeler, Ashton Wheeler, Cooper Wheeler and Juniper Wyatt; a sister; brother; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews; and many friends in the community. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 2, from the Bradley’s Funeral Home Chapel in Marion with the Rev. Don Mutter officiating. Interment will follow in Attoway Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 -2 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home of Marion is serving the Wyatt Family.
Library system introduces new catalog The Mountain Network Catalog (Mtn-N-Cat) Consortium, composed of the Wythe-Grayson and GalaxCarroll Regional Library systems, is pleased to introduce Atriuum’s Gallery, a modern and mobile-responsive online catalog provided by Book Systems, Inc. The new Mt-NCat Library system will go live for patrons on Friday, Dec. 1. Patrons will notice new search options and receive better search results across print and digital resources the library systems offer. Pa-
trons will easily see the difference with the new online mobile-responsive interface and “eye-catching” enriched content that will enable patrons to find their next favorite read. Online accounts will be available using a computer web browser or favorite mobile device without downloading or installing a new mobile app. Patrons can view their account status, renew, and reserve items, save book lists, share items, and create watch lists based on favorite authors, subjects, or series. Notification options will al-
low patrons to choose how the regional library systems contact them. Notifications may be received for items coming due, overdue items, reserves ready for pickup, and based on your watch list, notify you when newly added items arrive at the library. “We’re excited about the visual presence of our new online catalog and the increased convenience it provides for our patrons whether visiting the library in-person or virtually” says Trish Fore, Director of the Galax-Carroll Regional
Library. The Mountain Network Catalog Consortium has selected to implement Atriuum’s KidzViz Catalog, which creates a world that our young patrons with a broad range of reading skills can easily navigate and search the library catalog. In addition to a classic Dewey Decimal style catalog, KidzViz supports Common Sense Categories in which young patrons can browse titles by categories. “We are excited about the kids’ catalog” states Mary
Thomas, Director of the Wythe-Grayson Regional Library. “This feature is something we have been wanting to add for a long time.” As always, library card holders will continue to have access to items owned by this seven-branch library consortium. Please contact your home library for assistance with our new features beginning Friday, December 1, 2023; friendly library staff will be happy to help assist you!
Inn: Ribbon cut on Inn at Foster Falls From Page 1
present, and we hope guests enjoy its timeless charm, scenic location and proximity to the 57-mile New River Trail.” The Inn is housed in a 19th-century building that had been vacant for more than 50 years. In 2013, DCR’s Planning and Recreation Resources Department (PRR) started the multiyear process of saving it, a project that required specialized contractors because of its historic nature. The building has a long history. It opened in 1888 as the Foster Falls Hotel, and for the next 30 years, it also served as a post office, commissary, meeting hall and boarding house for the local mining industry and the Village of Foster Falls. At the end of World War I, the building was sold and reopened as an industrial school where girls learned cooking, sewing and other do-
mestic skills. Lastly, in 1938, it became the Children’s Home of Abingdon Presbytery, a co-ed orphanage with girls in the former hotel and boys in a separate brick house. The children’s home moved to Wytheville in 1962, and decades later, DCR took ownership of the abandoned building as part of an acquisition that would become New River Trail State Park. Fast forward to 2013, PRR was ready to start the renovation project and selected Greg Holzgrefe, an architect experienced with historic renovations, as project manager. From stabilizing the exterior and new site work to interior renovations and furniture selections, Holzgrefe managed every aspect alongside local architectural and engineering consultant The Lane Group. For the exterior, the team used vintage photos to recreate the origi-
nal roofline, which included a vented cupola and two styles of dormers, and the two-story porches, complete with wooden columns, decorative pierced brackets and ball finials. The interior was a full-gut renovation, but a few of the original components were saved, including an original stair and a few walls of tongue-andgroove wainscoting on the first floor. For everything else, the team made sure the rooms had a 19th-century feel but with modern functionalities.
The bathrooms have period tilework designs, often combined with glass showers and other modern amenities. Working fireplaces in the parlor and honeymoon suite look as they did in 1887 but run on gas, not coal. Antique and reproduction furnishings allow for conveniences such as queen- and king-size beds, minifridges, microwave ovens and televisions. Behind all these finishes are efficient, state-of-the-art electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems. “It is exciting to share
the restored beauty of the Inn with the citizens of the commonwealth after years of working on this historic centerpiece at Foster Falls,” said Director of PRR Kelly McClary. “I want to thank my team, especially Greg for the attention to detail that was given in this important renovation.” After a competitive bid process, DCR selected a concessionaire to run the facility: New River Retreat LLC. The company opened the Inn at Foster Falls to the public in the spring of 2023. A centerpiece of New River Trail State Parks, the Inn provides the park with overnight accommodations and other amenities that have been missing for guests since it was formed in 1986. “We’re excited and appreciative that DCR worked to restore this iconic piece of history,” said Park Manager Sam Sweeney. “It’s taken a decade with a number of individuals and or-
ganizations working to see this transformation through its processes, but the end results are spectacular. Everyone is impressed with the beauty and charm. We look forward to visitors from all over coming to visit and stay with us.” The Inn also offers its guests a unique overnight experience complete with a “southern style” continental breakfast, a daily dessert social, dinner service and on-site concierge service. “We are pleased to restore the Inn at Foster Falls as a place for people to stay while experiencing the park and surrounding communities. Our focus on providing a period experience with modern amenities combined with exceptional service by our partners at New River Retreat is already being appreciated by visitors to the Inn,” said Virginia State Parks Director Dr. Melissa Baker.
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November 1, 2023 N
Faulkner, GW claim MED title in cross country
George Wythe’s girls sewed up a Mountain Empire District title in cross country, and Emma Faulkner clinched individual honors. Faulkner raced to the finish line first with a time of 20:37.1. Carrie Sage Dalton took seventh, clocking in at 24:14.1. Alana Malavolti’s 24:47.3 finish earned her eighth place.
Haley Faulkner’s 26:37.0 run gave her 15th place. Maggie Simons’ 28:08.1 finish was good for 21st. Willow Delp clocked in at 29:00.3, earning 25th place. Grayson County earned third as a team, with Destyne Rutherford leading the way. Rutherford cruised to third place with a 21:37.2 run. Maggie Prudencio finished
in 12th place, clocking in at 26:11.5. Hayden Miller’s time of 27:38.0 earned her 18th, and Jaylah Garris finished in 23rd with a time of 28:21.2. Cienna Long clocked in at 29:20.6, earning 26th. In 27th Bethany Osborne finished in 29:33.8. Danica Kirby clocked in at 32:13.0, earning 30th place.
Galax claimed fourth as a team at the MED championship. Vivian Fant clocked in at 25:33.5, earning 10th place. Heaven Crookshanks clocked in at 26:27.6, good for 13th. Alexis Mitchell finished in 17th with a time of 27:24.1, while Addison Sheets finished in 20th, stopping the clock at 27:55.4. Briana Tasselmyer’s 30:35.4
run earned her 28th, and Ana Frausto clocked in at 37:15.4, good for 31st. Bland’s lone runner, Jocelyn Parks, cracked the top 10, finishing sixth with a time of 24:06.7. Fort Chiswell’s Aurora Haywood just missed the top 10, claiming 11th with a time of 26:05.3.
Macey Ayers
Maroons end Grayson’s unbeaten run
The Blue Devils couldn’t get by the George Wythe defense on Friday night, coming up with just a total of 142 yards, roughly split between rushing and passing. The Maroons also forced three turnovers and kept Grayson away from the end zone all night, giving the Blue Devils their first loss of the season. QB Tandom Smith put GW on the board in the opening frame, plunging to the end zone from oneyard out. In the third, GW widened their lead to 9-0 with a 24-yard field goal. The rest of the night belonged to Brayden Rainey, who scored twice in the final stanza.
Galax takes down FC in MED meeting
The Maroon Tide wouldn’t be denied. Behind Tedruhn Tucker’s huge ground assault, Galax claimed a 42-27 Mountain
Empire victory. Tucker chewed up nearly 300 yards on the ground, finding the end zone on five of his carries.
The Tide also scored off a 21-yard pass from Tommy Jones to Colton Coomes. Michael Melton continued to look good for Fort Chiswell,
scoring once on the ground and once on a pass from Brad Kelly.
Radford shuts out
Cavs
The Bobcats remained perfect, taking down Carroll County 56-0
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November 1, 2023
Bobcats notch first victory with road win BY CHARLES RYAN
The Blue Ridge Bobcats earned their first win of the season during their first road trip of the season in Fraser, Mich., taking the first game in an overtime shootout 5-4, and dropping the second game 3-4. The Bobcats struck first with a redirect from Jakub Volf off the one-timer attempt from the left-side blueline by Egor Dolkart. Giving the Bobcats the early 1-0 lead. Assists awarded to Dolkart and Kyle Stevens. Blue Ridge was not done in the first though as one minute later Hunter Hall gets the second touch on a crease suffocation over Trevor Babin allowing Hall to break past the back foot of Babin for the two-point lead over the Rockers. Assists from Kyle Stevens and Dominik Matonak. The Rockers were able to respond 19 minutes into the first period as Roman Gaudet redirected a deep shot around Christian Pavlas to close the gap to one. Assists to Dante Suf-
frendini and Scott Coash. Motor City controlled the second period as Pavel Svinstov scored twice and Jonathan Juliano found the back of the net to bring the Rockers up by two. Heading into the third period the Bobcats needed to find a spark and they appeared to find it in a power play with Vladislav Vlasov just over 14 minutes into the period with a one-timer from the top of the left face-off circle. Assists by Jakub Volf and Cody Oakes. Vlasov was not done though as four minutes later he broke through the five-hole off the lateral from Josh Newberg. Sending this one into overtime. The game stayed tied through the overtime period and went to the shootout which as they said on the broadcast was more of a shutout for the Bobcats as Volf and Newberg found the back of the net with no response from the Rockers. Blue Ridge takes this one 5-4. On the second night, the Bobcats
struck first once again in the first period as Cody Oakes took it out of the two-man trap in the corner to shove the biscuit through the crease. Assists from Fabian Granvist and Dominik Matonak. Motor City responded two minutes later with Danny Vanderwiel lifting the puck just above Pavlas’ right leg to send it into the top corner of the net, with assists from Pavel Svintsov and Brad Rietter. The game moved back and forth as Blue Ridge responded to take the lead once again as Hunter Hall got the redirect off the right side one-timer of Kolton Maguire and Egor Dolkart. Bringing the lead to 2-1. The Rockers would not go silently as 19 minutes into the first period Declan Conway went on the fast break cutting lateral in the slot to find Dereck Makimaa to tie it back up at two. Also awarded the assist was Ryan Rotondi. It would not be until the second period that the Bobcats would find the lead again as Josh Newberg finds
Dominik Matonak in neutral ice who takes it down for the one-timer with an assist to Cody Oakes for the onetwo-three fast break transition. It would not be until the third period that Motor City would find an opportunity to strike again with a deep one-timer from the blueline off the stick of Dante Suffredini with assists from Brad Rietter and Pavel Svintsov. The Rockers took the lead with a minute and a half left in regulation with a wrap-around from Danny Vanderweil and Jameson Milam 4-3. Motor City would close out the second game with the win giving the bobcats a split on the weekend as they travel home for a home-andhome series with the Carolina Thunderbirds on Nov. 3 and 4. Be sure to attend the game at the APEX Center on Nov. 3 where the Bobcats will be hosting Fight Hunger Night which will kick off the Bobcats food drive. Fans can bring in nonperishable food items to Bobcats games through Nov. 18 to donate.
Hurricanes hang SWD loss on Blues The Hurricanes blew harder than the Tornadoes, as Marion nabbed a Mountain Empire win, 47-28, over Richlands. The Marion boys got it done on the ground, legging out just shy of 500 rushing yards. Richlands struggled on the ground, coming
out with negative yardage. But the Blues got it done in the air Friday, completing six of nine pass attempts for 278 yards. Marion had no passing yards on the night, mostly because they didn’t throw a single pass.
Tigers whip Panthers The Tiger roared louder than the Panthers on Friday as Honaker hung a 48-7 loss on Northwood. By the half, Honaker held a 41-0 edge over the Panthers. Northwood got on the board in the third frame, with Brody Waddle scor-
ing at the end of a 46yard run. Northwood best Honaker on the ground, 170 yards to 87. In the air, though, things got lopsided for the Smyth County boys. Honaker had 380 passing yards to Northwood’s zero.
Richlands opened up a lead in the opening frame, but Marion cut the celebration short, with Hunter Robinson running in a score to give Marion a 7-6 lead early. The Canes went ahead
14-6 thanks to a 30yard run from Jordan Miller. Richlands answered with a scoring drive, but Marion couldn’t be stopped. Reid Osborne found the end zone at the end
of a four-yard run. Brody Whitt also put points on the board, legging in a 70-yard TD. In the third quarter, Hunter again found the end zone, this time at the end of a four-yard run.
Osborne and Colton Branson finished up the scoring bonanza for the Canes in the final frame. Osborne scored on a 47-yard run, and Branson took a 23-yard run to the house.
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November 1, 2023
Mayor’s Corner: Cold Weather actions BY WYTHEVILLE MAYOR BETH TAYLOR
Fellow Citizens,
Cold Weather & Our Furry Friends It is that time of the year when the temperature starts to drop, and we need to take into consideration the safety and well-being of our pets. Today, I will specifically address canines. No matter how these furry friends came into our lives, we accepted them as part of our family, and it is the owner’s responsibility to care for them and follow the State Law to keep them safe. If you witness an animal emergency or urgency, call 911 and your message will be delivered to the appropriate animal control officer. If you do not have the resources to properly protect your animal during cold weather, please call my office at 276-2233356 and I will endeavor to connect you with assistance or resources to address the situation. Here’s some Cold Weather Tips to keep in mind:
Adequate Shelter - At 32 degrees or less, no owned animal should be left outdoors unless they have access to a well-insulated structure that 1) is large enough to curl up in and has a wind block at the door. 2) includes a heated water bowl so they have access to an unfrozen water source. 3) has a floor, is elevated from the ground, has cedar shavings, dry straw or the equivalent, and has heating or an outdoor heating pad. 4) Includes a food bowl with a minimum of dry food available.
Walking Your Dog 1) Consider shortening your walks if the temperature is too frigid and increase indoor exercise. 2) Ask your veterinarian if your pet would benefit from additional clothing beyond their “fur coat” in chilly weather. 3) Watch for any signs of injury or extreme cold to their paws especially in snow and ice.
Warning Signs Trembling Sleepiness Slowed breathing Mobility Issues Dry skin Numbness Illness
Would you like to Volunteer? Would you like to volunteer to serve on a Town of Wytheville committee, board, commission, or authority? There are current vacancies/upcoming vacancies for the following: Building Code Appeals Board, Recreation Commission, Economic Development Authority, and the Tree Advisory Committee. Please contact Sherry Corvin, Town Clerk, for more information (276-223-3349 or sherryc@wytheville.org). The application that must be completed is online through the OpenGov portal on the Town’s website.
Save the Date Celebrate Veterans Special Events: As a new twist on the tradi-
tional ceremony, the Wall of Honor Committee encourages citizens to attend a Veterans Parade beginning at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at Spiller Elementary School. The parade route will follow First Street to Monroe, Main and Tazewell Streets with an ending destination on Spiller Street at Withers Park. At approximately 10 a.m., a ceremony will begin in Withers Park featuring music by the George Wythe High School Band and the Spiller Fifth Grade Choir. Guest speaker for the event will be Donald E. Elmore, United States Army. On Saturday, November 11, enjoy a special free showing of the movie “MAX” at the Historic Millwald Theatre beginning at 7 p.m. This familyfriendly presentation is the story of a military dog that helped United States Marines in Afghanistan who returns to America and is adopted by his handler’s family after suffering a traumatic experience. Christmas Activities in Downtown Wytheville: The Annual Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday,
December 2, at 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “A Christmas Melody: Celebrating the Songs of Christmas. For all the latest information on the parade, other activities, and how you can participate, visit https:// www.downtownwytheville. org/christmas-celebrationparade.
Council Actions October 11 – Special Called Meeting: Conducted a public hearing and approved a resolution to authorize the issuance of General Obligation Bonds in the maximum amount of $843,000 to be used to acquire a refuse truck and a dehumidification unit for the Town. I welcome the opportunity to talk to you regarding your ideas and concerns. I can be reached by phone at (276) 223-3356 or via email at beth.taylor@wytheville.org. Written correspondence may be sent to the Wytheville Municipal Building, 150 E. Monroe Street, Wytheville, VA, 24382.
OPINION: We have a new Speaker CONGRESSMAN MORGAN GRIFFITH
On October 3rd, a motion to vacate was brought to the House floor and eight Republicans voted with Democrats to oust the Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. The Republicans were frustrated that Congress was unable to pass all 12 fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills before the September 30th deadline and so we had to pass a continuing resolution to give us 45 more days
of government funding so that the House could further debate and vote on the bills. Though I understood their frustration, I disagreed with this move. It was my belief that there was nobody at that point in time who could quickly obtain the 217 votes needed to become speaker. It seems I had a point. For the next three weeks, Republicans debated and voted on who to nominate. Three different candidates were put forward by the Republican conference:
Steve Scalise, Jim Jordan, and Tom Emmer. But they did not have the votes to win on the floor. On October 24th, after numerous rounds of voting, it became clear Mike Johnson of Louisiana had the support within the Republican conference and on the floor to become the 56th Speaker of the House. On the floor, he received all of the votes of Republicans present, 220. Besides calling on all of us to work together and for a restoration of
NRCC to hold Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 10
New River Community College Veterans Office will host a Veterans Day Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 10 at 11 a.m. The event will be held on NRCC’s campus in Dublin in Edwards Hall, Room 117. The program will include presentation of the colors and retiring of the flags by Pulaski VFW Post 1184 led by Captain Steve Wallen. Music will be provided by the Radford High School Chamber Ensemble under the direction of Darren Goad. Ryan Adams, NRCC veterans and de-
pendents student services advisor and U.S. Army veteran; Barry Cox, NRCC industry training coordinator and U.S. Navy retiree; and Dr. Pat Huber, NRCC President, will represent the college during the ceremony. Dr. Peter Anderson, NRCC vice president of instruction and student services and former U.S. Army Ranger and a war veteran, will serve aa the keynote speaker. Anderson earned a doctorate from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree from Radford
University, a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech, and an associate degree from NRCC. Anderson is an 82nd Airborne Division “Operation Desert Storm” combat veteran. The ceremony is free and open to NRCC students, faculty, staff and the public. A reception with light refreshments will follow the ceremony. For more information call the NRCC Veterans Office at (540)674-3693 or email veterans@ nr.edu.
trust, Speaker Johnson laid out his vision for how the House should conduct itself moving forward. Below are his core principles for our nation. First, Individual Freedom. All Americans are endowed with individual, God-given liberties that are to be preserved against government intrusion. We must all work to maintain and promote our rights and liberties. Second, Limited Government. This country was founded on the belief that legitimate government is more efficient and less corrupt when its size and scope are limited. This means decentralizing authority, limiting government regulations, and reducing bureaucracy. Third, The Rule of Law. In order to maintain a civilized society and for our liberties to be respected, we must adhere to the Constitution and ensure that justice is administered equally and impartially to all Americans. Fourth, Peace through Strength. A strong America is good for the entire world. As our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel, faces violence and with tensions high
in the Indo-Pacific region, it is more important than ever to show the world that we are able to defeat any adversary or threat, no matter the circumstance, because we have the strongest and most capable military in the world. Fifth, Fiscal Responsibility. Our country’s national debt has reached over $33 trillion, and Congress has a duty to rein in spending, balance the budget, modernize federal entitlement programs, pursue pro-growth tax reforms, and restore regular order in the budget and appropriations processes. Speaker Johnson said that he would be establishing a bipartisan debt commission to begin working on the debt crisis immediately. Sixth, Free Markets. Free markets and free trade encourage entrepreneurs and business owners to pursue their dreams and with that, our country and economy can thrive. Our country will see more growth, more jobs, and a greater chance of upward mobility because of free markets. Seventh, Human Dignity. All men and women are created equal, and every American deserves respect and dig-
nity. As a society, we must encourage education and hard work so that every American has a fair shot at a good and fulfilling life. In fact, earlier in his speech Speaker Johnson talked about how G. K. Chesterton, the English author and philosopher, noted that the United States is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed. That creed, spelled out in our Declaration of Independence, is that all men are created equal and are endowed with the same inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Thankfully, once elected, Speaker Johnson immediately got to work. His first move was to bring a resolution to the floor to show our support for Israel and its right to defend itself. As our number one ally in the Middle East, it was imperative that the House show its bipartisan support for Israel. After the Israel resolution, we immediately began debate on the Energy and Water Development appropriations bill. I was able to speak on the House floor on behalf of my amendment to better balance fossil fuel and renewable energy research funding.