The Southwest Virginia Sun - Wythe Edition April 2024

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Wythe County April 2024

Volume 2, No. 3

School Days

New middle school awaits students

By Zach Cooley Wytheville students heading to sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grades next year are expected to report to a new building for school.

See SCHOOL, Page 5

Open Door marches into spring

By Zach Cooley

The Open-Door Community, formerly Helping Overcome Poverty Existence, has become the crux of Wytheville’s reputation as a caring community.

With spring here, Executive Director Jordan Stidham offered insight into new housing projects in the works within the

See OPEN, Page 3

PAGE 2

April 2024

Writing contest seeking submissions This year’s Wytheville Chautauqua Festival’s Creative Writing Contest is taking submissions.

The contest is open to amateur writers, in these age groups: students in grades 6-9, students in grades 1012, and adults (which

includes college students).

The categories are: fiction (750-4000 words), nonfiction (750-4000 words), and poetry (under 50 lines).

Submission Guidelines: 1. Submit only one manuscript per catego-

ry (i.e., only one poem, one piece of fiction, one piece of nonfiction), but enter as many categories as you wish.

2. Include an entry cover sheet with each submission, which contains your name, address, phone number, email address, age

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group, and the literary category.

3. Your name should not appear on your manuscript.

4. All submissions should be typed in 12-point font (Times New Roman or Arial), double spaced, with 1-inch margins.

5. Do not submit works that have been previously published.

This includes online publications.

6. Email submissions preferred. Attach cover sheet and manuscript as separate Word or PDF files. If mailing,

send only one typed copy of manuscript.

Please retain a copy of your manuscript, as none will be returned.

7. Payment (adult entries only): Enclose a check or money order for $15 for the entry fee. Make checks payable to Wythe Arts Council.

8. No entry fee for 6-12th grade students 9. Email entries with the subject line “Chautauqua Creative Writing,” the age group, and the category to julia.tomiak@gmail.com.

Or mail to Julia Tomi-

ak, Chair, Chautauqua Creative Writing Contest, P.O. Box 967, Wytheville, VA, 24382.

10. Entries must be postmarked by May 27.

Awards: Winners will be notified prior to June 14. Non-winners will not be notified.

Winners will be recognized and awards presented at the Chautauqua Festival’s Creative Writing Day on Friday, June 21. Our guest author presenter will be David Joy, and we encourage everyone to attend.

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PAGE 3

April 2024

Open: Door marching into spring From Page 1

organization.

“We are breaking ground on a 12-unit townhome development and a quadplex, both located in the town of Wytheville,” he explained. “We are also working on the early development of a 32-unit apartment, also in Wytheville.

Along with our multifamily developments, we are applying for a grant that would allow us to rehabilitate older houses in the area and sell them to first time homebuyers.”

Of course, a great deal of work is involved in making these building ready for occupancy.

“Our 12-unit townhome development has started with grading and cutting in the entrances,” noted Stidham. “We hope this one will be done in 18 months. Our quadplex should start moving dirt around the end of March, we hope for this one to be done by September of this year.

Our 32-unit development is in the planning and funding stage. We hope to break ground on it at the end of 2025.”

Winters are tough in Wythe County. Howev-

er, few of us know just how cruel winter can be without heated roofs over our heads. Open Door went the extra mile this winter to see that everyone in Wythe County remained warm throughout the winter.

“We generally look at instances of shelter,” Stidham elaborated.

“So, we look at each room per night as an instance. Often, we have people who will use the shelter program several nights back-to-back, couples in one room, etc. and for this reason we track each room per night as an instance of shelter.

So far this winter, we have provided approximately 1,541 instances of shelter.”

Of course, such herculean efforts do not come without their share of learning experiences.

“With our warming shelter, there were several operational adjustments we made as we went,” Stidham recalled. “Like moving the check in time up and streamlining the actual check in process.”

That being said, Open Door has hosted a number of very successful events throughout the past year, as a result of their rebrand-

ing, which also refurbished community events.

“Each year, we have four major fundraisers,” Stidham pointed out. “We have the Harvest Fest at the end of September, which is a big music festival. We have the Stuffed Strut 5K on Thanksgiving to raise money for the café.”

If most notable recent success was the “Coldest Night of the Year” walk in which hundreds participate. On June 15 th , the OpenDoor Cycle Fest will be held. The Fast and Fiorini Tournament, in memory of late local cyclist Ian Fiorini, is another popular race, which peddles along Big Walker Mountain.

Gravel and mountain bikers also enjoy the Gravel Grinder race in Bland.

“This year, we are very excited to be partnering with a law enforcement motorcycle club to feature a huge motorcycle ride as a part of the cycle fest,” Stidham noted. “These rides will all happen during the day, with the event finishing at our music festival here at the Open Door Café at 6 p.m. that evening.

We will have cyclists, motorcycles, music,

County youth win at fair Several young Wythe County farmers joined 22 youth who took part in the 2023 State Fair of Virginia 4-H and FFA livestock and general competitions, and

one claimed first place in the intermediate category.

Those taking part in the competitions were awarded a total of $36,084 from the fair’s

Applied Scholarship Program.

A $1,000 Farm Credit Scholarship was available to any youth exhibitor who partici-

See FAIR, Page 16

food, and local beer for everyone to come together and enjoy.”

Since their relaunching, the crown jewel of the entire organization has been the Open Door Café, open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a completely revamped menu of chef-prepared items including smoked brisket, burgers, hot honey chicken bowls, and so much more, the OpenDoor is now offering a homeownership program.

“With our homeownership program, any-

one can come in an get help with budgeting, saving, and credit repair,” Stidham explained. “We can use grant money to pay off past due debts if the person completes our program to help them get their credit up. Once we get their credit up, we can help package a mortgage for a first-time homebuyer. All these homeowner services are provided at no charge to the person going through the program.”

While donations are always appreciated, those who can’t pay are

always welcome to volunteer for events, assemble HOPE Packs for school students, or volunteer in the community garden, which helps supply the café. Sharing event information on social media and, of course, participating in events are also helpful.

“I invite everyone, even if you aren’t riding to come out to the Cycle Fest music festival on June 15,” Stidham encouraged in closing.

“Enjoy the music, grab a local beer, and support our cause.”

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April 2024

SwVa Sun

Serving Bland, Smyth and Wythe counties.

News Get it in We welcome all your news - from birth announcements to obituaries and everything in between.

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With your help, we can be THE news source for our region. We ask for submissions so that we can be your community-driven, grassroots news service.

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Tennessee woman crashes into restaurant A Tennessee driver crashed through the Waffle House in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 27, in Wytheville.

According to the Wytheville Police Department, officers were dispatched to the diner at 3:47 a.m.

Once on scene, officers identified Robin Noe, 61, of Kingsport as the driver.

Noe told officers she was pulling into a parking spot in

front of the Waffle House when her foot slipped off the brake, landing on the gas pedal. Her vehicle then crashed through the front of the restaurant.

No injuries were reported at the restaurant, and officers found no signs of impairment with the driver. No charges were placed. The WPD noted that the driver reported the accident to her insurance company.

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April 2024

School: Superintendent updates work From Page 1

Scott Memorial Middle School, on the George Wythe campus, is slated for completion in Fall 2024.

Dr. Brad Haga, clerk of the works on the construction project, says that the roofing crew is 70% finished with the academic wing. The gymnasium, office and library are fully- roofed.

The addition to George Wythe High School, known as Area C, is the only section currently not roofed.

“There are two locker rooms and a brandnew kitchen being added on to the back of the high school gymnasium,” said Haga.

“We have some metal decking and beams that have to be placed, but we’re almost ready.”Haga added that masons, electrical and mechanical crews are also onsite, working with full steam to complete the project, which officially began in January 2023.

“We are in a holding pattern with some electrical components, but are excited to be able to cook and eat from our new kitchen and dining hall,” Haga stated. “It could be done as early as August or as late as November.”

Superintendent Dr. Wesley Poole stated that even though the building may not be completed by the start of next school year, as long as the electrical system is in place by August, students will be safe to received instruction in the new building as final reno-

vations are completed.

“A lot of the HVAC and electrical work, which has been ongoing, people can’t see,” Poole explained. “Spectators will begin to see windows going up and the brick has begun to be laid from the side of the new building that faces the Wythe County Technology Center.”

Haga said that some windows could be seen within before the end of March.

“The blue you see is an air and vapor barrier that has to be applied to seal the block before metal and brick,” he said.

“The new building will have centralized heating and cooling as well as seating on both sides of the gymnasium,” Haga explained.

“There will also be interactive televisions in every classroom so that every teacher can instruct utilizing the latest technology available.”

“There will be a secure-entrance vestibule with the school resource officer’s window in view of every entry and exit throughout the school day,” Poole

added. “There will also be LED lighting throughout the entire building.”

Both agree it will be a complete upgrade from the current Scott Memorial Middle School building, which is more than 70 years old.

It was important, Poole noted, that the middle school be on the same campus as the high school, which eliminates the need for teachers and parents to travel across town for things like band, chorus, foreign languages and career and technology education programs, all of which are on or near the George Wythe High School campus.

Like the other two middle schools in the county, in Rural Retreat and Fort Chiswell, the newly-erected middle school in Wytheville will be more ideallyplaced on the same campus as its corresponding high school.

In the distant future, Poole added that the current site of Scott Memorial Middle School will eventually be home to the future

Richard Henry Scott Jr. Elementary School, in keeping with the clause that any school on that property bear the Scott name. This building will also be mostly brand-new with a portion of the original Scott Memorial edifice used.

“Spiller is our largest school populations on our smallest campus,”

Poole explained.

“You have a small playground and two small parking lots with all the traffic on the street. At Scott, you have a much larger campus for an elementary school.”

As long as there is a building on the Tazewell Street property, it will maintain the Spiller name as well.

As for what will become of the original Spiller Elementary School building, first erected in 1957, Dr. Poole says that may be too far in advance for him to consider.

“That may be beyond my time,” he said with a laugh. “I may not be around by then. I’m getting pretty old.”

“Regardless, here in Wythe County,” he assured in closing. “We’re all here to make sure the kids of Wythe County have the best educational experience possible.”

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April 2024

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Lifestyles n Entertainment n Get Out and Go Friday, April 12 Millwald Theatre: Becky Buller is a multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter from St. James, Minnesota, who has traversed the globe performing bluegrass music to underwrite her insatiable songwriting habit. She tours extensively with the Becky Buller Band and has released three albums, one of which was a nominee for the 2021 IBMA Album Of The Year.

Equally passionate about bluegrass music education, Buller has 20 years experience teaching fiddle, singing, and songwriting at workshops and camps around the world.

Saturday, April 20 Lincoln Theatre: With a wide smile and engaging Southern drawl, Aaron Tippin claims to the be the luckiest hillbilly that’s ever lived. He’s been struck by lightning twice, piloted planes with engine failure and survived more than three decades in the music business. Along the way he’s earned six gold albums and one platinum. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets with a private meet-and-greet and refreshments are $120. Premium tickets are $58, orchestra seats are $47 and balcony is $42.

Saturday, April 27 Millwald Theatre: Although born in South Carolina, singer/

Musical Legend Honored

The Blue Ridge Music Center is celebrating a music legend with the release of a new video series titled Legacies: Doc Watson Musical Tribute highlighting performances and stories from artists who were influenced by the music of the late bluegrass pioneer Doc Watson.

The series features T. Michael Coleman, Jack Lawrence, Wayne Henderson, and Jack Hinshelwood performing during the Doc at 100 tribute concert hosted at the venue in 2023.

The series is available at BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and on the Music Center’s YouTube channel.

Born in 1923 near Deep Gap, N.C., Watson was blind from infancy.

He learned to play guitar at the encouragement of his father and went on to develop a flat-picking style that redefined the sound of traditional music.

In his more than 70-year career, Watson became one of the most influential acoustic guitar players in the world and was a noted influence on scores of musicians from across genres.

The four artists featured in the video series have deep ties to Watson, having played, recorded, and toured with him for a combined 40-plus years.

songwriter Dave Barnes spent most of his childhood in Mississippi, where he formed an early attachment to hip-hop but was also exposed to classic soul, blues, and R&B by his parents. He later enrolled at Middle Tennessee State University and began writing songs for other artists. Barnes also played solo shows on campus, and by the time he graduated with a degree in recording industry management, he’d decided to pursue his own music career.

Barnes moved to Nashville, Tennessee, and gravitated toward the city’s acoustic folk scene, though, the desire to make more groove-oriented music convinced him to assemble a full band. Catch Barnes at 8 p.m. at the Millwald.

Friday, May 3 Millwald Theatre: Two of North Carolina’s veteran bluegrass musicians– Hank Smith on Banjo and Pattie Hopkins Kinlaw on fiddle– join forces with some of the most versatile musicians in the Carolinas to create modern, American, acoustic music featuring the full range of their talents as composers and arrangers. The band is on tour regionally and nationally in support of their new album, on Robust Records.

See GO,Page 12

PAGE 7

April 2024

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April 2024

College announces poetry, art contest Parnell picked

Visual Arts Third place, Visual Arts, Kiale Ward. Kiale’s painting is titled, “The Moon, the Stars, and Me.” She is from Abingdon, and is in WCC’s Dental Hygiene

program.

Second place, Visual Arts, Holly Montgomery. Holly’s mixed media piece is titled, “I Belong: A Whimsical Celebration.”

She is studying Business Management and Leadership at WCC, and is from Wytheville.

First place, Visual Arts, Makaela Umberger.

Makaela’s painting is titled, “Wythe Connection.”

She is a WCC dual enrollment student from Wytheville.

Poetry Third place, Poetry, Madison Wardwell. Madison’s poem is titled, “Be You.” She is from Cana and is a dual enrollment student at Carroll County High School.

Second place, Poetry, Jason Bailey. Jason’s poem is titled, “That Muse.”

Jason is from Fries and is studying Human Services at WCC. First place, and newly named “WCC Poet Laure-

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Wytheville Community College is pleased to announce the winners of its inaugural Virginia Community College System Poetry & Visual Arts Competition.

Participating students submitted original poetry and visual artworks during February and March interpreting the theme “I belong.”

The program aimed to foster a sense of community and belonging at WCC and across the VCCS. Twenty of the 23 colleges in the VCCS participated in this first year of the Poetry & Arts Competition, which was supported by the VCCS Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Culture.

This year’s winners are:

ate 2024,” is Stevie Freeman. Stevie wrote a collection of poems titled, “I Belong” and is from Ivanhoe. Stevie is completing her AA & S in General Studies at WCC. Deanna Bradberry, WCC Public Relations and Development Coordinator, said, “Congratulations to this year’s winners. WCC could not be prouder of a group of students who took the time out of their studies to participate. Congratulations, as well, to all who entered the competition.

The judges stated that the decisions to choose first through third place in each category were difficult. WCC encourages each of the contest participants to keep writing and keep creating.”

Winners at WCC received award certificates and monetary prizes.

Stevie Freeman, WCC’s new Poet Laureate, also won a spot to compete for

See COLLEGE,Page 16

as county EMS coordinator

Wythe County Emergency Services has a new director to lead countywide public safety and emergency response.

Charles “Chuck” Parnell of Austinville assumes the duties this month.

He has served as Wythe County’s emergency management coordinator since April 2023. In that role, he led crisis response efforts, coordinated development of a new public safety radio system, updated emergency plans and helped Wythe County prepare to add EMS operations in April.

Courtesy photo of Chuck Parnell, new director of Wythe County Emergency Services.

Wythe County received 19 applications for the new position from all over the United States.

“Mr. Parnell’s effort, knowledge, energy, contacts and enthusiasm made him stand out in a deep pool of well-qualified applicants,” said Matt Hankins, Wythe’s Assistant County Administrator and acting emergency services director. “He has deep roots in Wythe County, shown broad

See EMS,Page 13

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PAGE 9

April 2024

Maroon stars shine on court

Kirtner makes waves for GW

By Zach Cooley

Reed Kirtner, a junior shooting guard, on the George Wythe Varsity basketball team, helped lead his team to a winning record in the 2023-2024 season.

Reed has been playing basketball his whole life.

“I remember going to the Wytheville Rec center when I was only 3 years old,” Reed says. “I would go with my dad when he would get home from work and we would play for hours.”

From a young age, Reed was surrounded by like-minded people who helped him excel and gain a love for basketball.

To this day, Reed still goes to the same rec center and practices. Whether it be after school, on the weekends, or during school breaks, Reed is always on the court.

His dedication has proved to work well for him as he is one of the leading scorers on his team, hitting the magic number 1,000 (one of two Maroons to do so) this season.

Throughout all his success as an athlete, he has stayed humble. He knows it is important to listen and learn from those around him. Reed says one of his favorite

Ty Campbell achieved his 1,000th point on Jan. 31 as the shooting guard for the George Wythe High School varsity basketball team at a home game against Giles.

“It really felt great,” the senior recalled. “Everything happened so fast and the emotions of the moment were just incredible.”

Ty recalls scoring a point and the game suddenly being stopped as his teammates rushed the court with hugs of congratulations.

At first, he wasn’t even aware of what had happened.

“I couldn’t believe I made it,” he said.

That achievement meant more to Ty than most people could possibly know. He is the fifth person in his family to succeed in this feat after his father, uncle, great uncle and paternal grandfather.

No one is prouder of him than his dad, Doug Campbell, who serves

Campbell collects 1,000

By Conner S. Felts

See KIRTNER,Page 10 Reed Kirtner elevates to score for the Maroons this season.

See CAMPBELL ,Page 10

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April 2024

Campbell: 1,000 points

From Page 9

as the girls’ varsity basketball coach at George Wythe.

“He is always the guy I look up to and still do,” Ty stated in regards to his father. “He’s an incredible guy and was a heck of a player.”

Ty also wanted to credit his mom, a Honaker graduate, Nikki Jesse Campbell, who was a star player in her high school days.

“It is incredible to have my name up there with those guys in my family,” he reflected.

“I’ve admired and wanted to be like them all

my life.”

However, thanks to his dad, Ty says he never felt pressured to hit the 1,000-point mark.

“You’re not me,” Doug told his son. “Just play your game and be great.”

“That really took the pressure off me,” Ty noted. “It enabled me to play the game I know how to play.”

Verbally committed to play basketball for the University of Virginia at Wise for the next four years, Ty says he plans to study exercise science.

“I’m definitely excited

for that,” he said. “I’ve worked really hard for it.”

Doug Campbell achieved his 1,000 points at J.I. Burton High School in Norton in 1995 with much the same excitement as his son. Upon graduation, he was his high school’s all-time lead scorer, a record previously held by his uncle.

“I was just glad to be there with my dad and uncle,” he recalled.

“I wanted to break my uncle’s record.”

The thrill of seeing his son reach the same achievement made him

clearly emotional.

“As a parent,” he said, choking up. “To see your child reach his goal is the greatest feeling in the world.”

However, it is Ty as a human being that makes his dad the proudest.

“I often hear what a great, mannerly, wellspoken kid he is,” Doug complimented his son.

“His sports will fade away, but his character never will.”

“It means a lot to me that Ty will have a seat at our family table in the 1,000-point club,”

See CAMPBELL ,Page 15

Kirtner:

From Page 9

NBA players is Steph Curry.

“He is my favorite because he is strong in his faith as a Christian.” He says, “Steph is determined, resilient, and humble. He is a good leader and someone easy to look up to.”

It is a goal of Reed’s to be a leader whom people want to follow and look up to.

He wants to continue growing within the sport of basketball and take his skills to the next level of college and hopefully the NBA. Reed is excited about the work required to make it to where he wants to be.

“I want to make it to the next level in basketball and I can’t do that by sitting on the couch. I have

to be working even when I don’t want to.

I have to be working when my opponents are resting.”

As his junior season comes to an end, he has had time to reflect on what he has done good and what could use some improvement.

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April 2024

Puzzle Place Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

Millwald offers subscriptions The Millwald theatre is offering savings for frequent visitors, offering new subscription packages.

The theater is calling the lower tier of subscription the Spotlight Package. This tier allows users to pick six shows.

The Encore Package allows participants to pick

10 shows.

The theatre says that subscribers have access to premium shows, premium seats at discounted prices, a savings on fees, early access to ticket sales and more.

The subscriptions are further broken down to orchestra and balcony variations.

The Millwald also offers a Movie Pass, which allows early ticket sales, 20 percent off all concessions, $5 entry to classic movies, $1 to new movies and free movie tickets after 10 visits.

The subscription is for one year.

Copyright 2024 by The Puzzle Syndicate

Spiller students graduate DARE Fifth-graders at Spiller Elementary School graduated from the DARE program on March 15, celebrating with a pizza party.

The 10-week DARE program was presented by Lt. Bryan Bard of the Wy-

Vaccine clinic set

The Wythe County Health Department, in collaboration with the Wythe-Bland Foundation, announce the return of the adult vaccine clinics.

Vaccines will be available on Thursday, April 25 at the Wytheville Meeting Center.

Walk-ins will not be accepted. Those with an appointment will not incur any out-of-pocket costs.

Appointments can be made by contacting the fol-

lowing health departments: Spanish-speaking residents may call (276) 238-6105 to schedule an appointment.

The clinics will offer a range of essential vaccinations, including diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus (Tdap), shingles, and COVID-19. Individuals who received the shingles vaccine before 2018 should consider receiving the updated vaccination for enhanced protection.

theville Police Department.

In all, 97 Spiller students took part in the program. Each was presented with a DARE T-shirt to wear to the graduation ceremony and a DARE graduation certificate.

PAGE 12

April 2024

Hospital named Lifepoint leader

Wythe County Community Hospital last week announced that it has been named a Lifepoint Health National Quality Leader.

This prestigious designation recognizes hospitals within the Lifepoint Health system that have enrolled in the Lifepoint National Quality Program and succeeded in transforming their culture of safety and achieving high standards of quality care, performance improvement and patient engagement. The hospital celebrated the notable accomplishment on Wednesday, March 20, at an event onsite at the hospital surrounded by employees, physicians, community dignitaries and Life-

point Health leaders.

"Delivering the highest quality patient care is at the center of all we do at Wythe County Community Hospital” said Vicki Parks, chief executive officer at WCCH. "Being recognized as a Lifepoint Health National Quality Leader is something this team has worked very hard to achieve, and it took every single person to reach this milestone. The culture of safety we have created here is strengthened every day through the commitment of our providers and employees across all our departments, and we look forward to continuing to advance how we deliver quality care

Go: Calendar

From Page 5

May 10 to June 2

(of course) a sax man.

Saturday, May 11

Wohlfahrt Haus: A brand new celebration of the long lasting friendship of two of the best American singer/songwriters Carole King and James Taylor. Follow the highs and lows of their friendship and careers through their most popular songs in “Tapestry of Fire and Rain.”

Lincoln Theatre: The Kiwanis Club of Marion presents a 7 p.m. show with Presley Barker joined by special guests Jim Lloyd and Junior Appalachian Musicians. Tickets are $22 for adults, $17 for seniors and $17 for students.

Friday, May 10

Friday, May 17

Millwald Theatre: The Yacht Rock Schooner docks in Wytheville on May 10 for a show at the Millwald. The seven-man Schooner specializes in the smooth sounds of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.

It’s a party that spans generations, and the band is composed of some of Atlanta’s top players with a dual keyboard setup, multiple ace vocalists and

Millwald Theatre: The “Meet Loaf” tribute show epitomizes the Meat Loaf experience in a look-a-like and sound-a-like event, that leaves audiences awestruck. A world-class show that delivers the powerful wide-ranging male and female operatic lead vocals, along with the epic theatrical elements that Meat Loaf fans have come to love, in an unfor-

close to home.”

When hospitals enroll in the National Quality Program, they begin working with Lifepoint quality experts to evaluate and strengthen their quality programs and processes. Following an initial evaluation, the hospital creates a plan and begins to employ changes that will help it achieve quality improvement benchmarks and establish long-term solutions to sustain its results.

“At Lifepoint Health, our mission is making communities healthier®, and quality is a key component of this mission,” said Jason Zachariah, executive vice president and chief operating

officer of Lifepoint Health.

“Wythe County Community Hospital has demonstrated a true commitment to quality, patient safety and service.

We congratulate this team on this remarkable achievement and well-deserved recognition.”

In addition to evaluating common quality care and patient safety metrics, the Lifepoint National Quality Program focuses on foundational elements required to sustain quality care, including committed leadership, systems to ensure continuous performance and process improvement, and a culture dedicated to safety.

Lifepoint Health National

Quality Leader designation denotes those hospitals that have achieved a broad range of criteria in each of these areas and demonstrate a capacity to continuously measure and improve quality and patient safety.

“I could not be prouder of the collective efforts of our team and the exceptional patient care that is being delivered each and every day,” said Theresa Dix, chief nursing officer at WCCH. “The National Quality Leader designation is an affirmation of the hard work this team has done to deliver high-quality, patient-centric care and the exceptional work they do each day.

gettable evening of smash hits.

June 14-July 21 Wohlfahrt Haus: Grab your flux capacitor and join us as the 80’s are alive and well at the Wohlfahrt Haus. An original revue of the best songs and genres of the 1980’s “If I Could Turn Back Time” is filled with high energy dancing and singing, you’ll be sure to jump out of your seat and joining in!

Saturday, June 15 Lincoln Theatre: Mark Lowry & Friends bring their 2024 tour to the Lincoln at 7:30 p.m. Special guests include Endless Highway and The Sound.

VIP tickets are $100.

Premium seats are $55, orchestra seating is $47 and balcony is $37.

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April 2024

Protect your pets from ticks, parasites With tick season on the way, it's crucial to take steps to protect your furry friends.

Ticks are not only a nuisance but can also transmit serious diseases to both animals and humans. Here are some important things to know about ticks and how to keep your pets safe.

Ticks are small parasitic arachnids that feed on the blood of their hosts, which include dogs, cats, and other mammals. They

thrive in warm, humid environments and are most active during spring and summer months. However, with climate change causing milder winters, tick activity is increasing year-round.

There are several types of ticks found in North America, including the American dog tick, blacklegged tick (also known as deer tick), brown dog tick, and lone star tick.

Each species carries different risks for dis-

ease transmission. For example, blacklegged ticks can carry Lyme disease, while America n do g t i c ks m ay spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

To prevent tick bites, start by keeping your yard clean and wellmaintained. Remove any leaf litter or debris where ticks might hide.

Keep grass mowed short and trim trees and shrubs around your home. Consider using a natural repellent made from cedar-

wood oil or other essential oils.

When walking your pet outside, stay away from tall grass and wooded areas whenever possible. Check your pet thoroughly after every outdoor excursion, paying close attention to their ears, paws, and underbelly. If you find a tick attached to your pet, use tweezers to carefully remove it, making sure to get the entire head. Dispose of the tick properly and

wash your hands immediately afterward.

It's also important to talk to your veterinarian about flea and tick prevention options.

There are many effective products available, such as topical treatments, oral medications, and collars.

Some products offer protection against multiple parasites, including heartworm, hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm.

Remember, early de-

PAGE 13

tection and treatment are key when dealing with tick-borne illnesses. Watch for signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes.

Contact your vet right away if you notice anything unusual in your pet's behavior or appearance.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a happy and healthy summer for both you and your beloved companion.

EMS: Parnell From Page 8

knowledge across a variety of public safety disciplines and has developed positive relationships with local, regional, state and federal partners.”

“We’ve worked sideby-side on busy interstates, in staff rooms and board meetings,” said Hankins, who has served as acting director of emergency services. “I’ve witnessed his dedication to Wythe County and the wellbeing of its residents, businesses and visitors. I look forward to his systems-based leadership in this important emergency services development.”

Parnell previously served as volunteer captain of Lead Mines Rescue Squad and its search and rescue and water rescue initiatives, leading the effort to add a rock boat to expand water rescue capabili-

ties on Reed Creek and the New River. Parnell has led water rescues and recoveries on the New River. Prior to joining Wythe County, Parnell worked in the public sector as an electrical engineer at Parkdale Mills, then Austinville Limestone.

“I look forward to continuing to serve the community I’m from,” said Parnell. “Wythe County’s Board of Su-

pervisors and administration have set the table for a successful new emergency services operation. We have a lot dedicated first responders who really care about providing first-class service.”

Wythe County Emergency Services recently added parttime weekday firefighters at Max Meadows Fire Department.

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PAGE 14

April 2024

Hospital announces news urologists Wythe County Community Hospital recently announced that Urologists Nathan Goldin, MD, FACS, Alan Kaplan, MD, MBA, Joe Pazona, MD and Family Nurse Practitioner Katherine Morris have joined its medical staff to provide urologic care to Wytheville and the surrounding areas.

“We are excited about the addition to our medical staff and surgical team,” said Vicki Parks, chief executive officer (CEO) of Wythe County Community Hospital. “The providers’ background and training will be

an asset to our community’s access to high-quality, patient-focused urology care.”

Dr. Goldin, Dr. Kaplan, Dr. Pazona, along with Katherine Morris, FNP specialize in general urology, kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, incontinence, prostate health, pelvic pain, and low testosterone.

The providers are accepting new patients, and appointments may be made by calling 276-228-5069.

Wythe Physician Practices Urology is located at 590 W. Ridge Road Suite I in Wytheville.

Dr. Kaplan is a board-certified urologist with extensive experience practicing full scope general urology.

He completed his clinical training at the University of California Los Angeles and a healthcare administration fellowship thereafter. His interests include urological education, men's health, prostate cancer, and end of life care considerations in urology.

that affect the reproductive system. He attended medical school at University of Virginia. After that, Dr. Goldin completed an internal medicine residency at the Medical College of Pennsylvania, a surgical residency at Bryn Mawr Hospital in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania and a urology residency at the Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Goldin specializes in conditions that affect the urinary tract in men and women as well as diseases

Dr. Joseph Pazona is a board-certified urologist and CEO/founder of VirtuCare a healthcare company which

leverages telemedicine to deliver exceptional urology care to underserved populations. Dr. Pazona trained at Northwestern University for undergraduate studies, medical school, and residency.

Morris is an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) who uses her skills in patient evaluation, diagnosis and treatment plan development through evidence-based practice for the wellbeing of her patients. She is a member of the Northeast Tennessee Nurse Practitioners Association.

Hospital: Residency program launched From Page 13

“Our countywide broadband expansion, natural resources, expected economic developments and low cost of living make Wythe County likely to experience strong growth,”

said Board of Supervisors Chair Brian W. Vaught. “That growth requires that we be prepared for additional demands on our public safety and law enforcement systems. The Board

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“He has experience working with boards and a variety of partners to shape policy, and is really good at implementing policy while building teams

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April 2024

Titans of the Cage returning to Wytheville Titans of the Cage is bringing mixed martial arts action back to the Wytheville Meeting Center on Saturday, April 13.

Doors open at 3 p.m. and fights get underway at 4 p.m The event, which is brought to you by A-1 Storage, Varney Construction and Realtor Chris Fox, is sanctioned by the state of Virginia DPOR. Tickets are available at www.tocfights.com and at the door.

This spring, five belts are on the ling in a card packed with local fighters and many of the regional standouts.

Along with 23 hard-hitting adult bouts, there will be four youth exhibition bouts.

In the main event of the evening Daniel Wilkins of North Carolina will defend his 155-pound title against rising star Kyshon Lee of Princeton, West Virginia.

In the co-main event the vacant women’s TOC bantamweight title will be on the line when Gracie Grecco of Chatham steps inside the cage to face Hannah Ross of Harrisonburg.

Kyshon Lee (left) will challenge Daniel Wilkins for the title in the main event In a featured bout, the men’s 135-pound bantamweight belt will also be on the line when Jonathan Freeman of Greensboro, North Carolina, faces off with Addison Hendry of Burlington, North Carolina.

The event will feature two

special TOC Legends kickboxing bouts with TOC hall of famers Micah Sheffey of Wytheville facing off with Josh Cook of Halifax.

Then in the second legends bout it will be Michael Warner of Princeton, West Virginia, returning to TOC to do battle with Brandon Webb who is fighting out of Wytheville.

The prelim card will kick

off with some high-powered youth matches featuring local youth competitors as well as other youth from throughout the region. After highlighting some of our local youth competitors we will move on to the adult prelims where you will see many fighters making their MMA debuts, as well as some that are returning to TOC.

Gracie Grecco (left) will face Hannah Ross in the comain event Some of our featured bouts that will have a lot of eyes on them will be Trenton Cecil of Princeton, West Virginia, taking on Roanoke’s Camron Saunders in a No. 1 contender welerweight contender bout.

Two up-and-coming prospects will face off when Bryson Miller of Church Hill, Tennessee, battles with Alijah Webb of Wytheville. In another highly anticipated bantamweight bout it will be Nyzaiah King of Charlotte, North Carolina, vs. North Carolina fighter Hunter Peeler.

Many other highly competitive bouts are set to go including Nikita Sesay (Harrisonburg) vs. Ivan Lakicevic (Lexington), Ryan Dooley (Roanoke) vs. Cody Stevens (Wytheville), Jaden Asbury (Salem) vs. Jacob Weathers (NC), Dylan Dool-

ey (Roanoke) vs. Chance Shelton (Wytheville), Joshua Reckhart (WV) vs. Shawn Mulgrew (Wytheville), Brandon Miner (NC) vs. Zay Martin (NC), Brandon Bast (Harrisonburg) vs. David Harrison (Charlotte, NC), Brody Lowe (Princeton, WV) vs.

Tyler Sisk (Bristol), Randy Gibson (Bedford) vs. Justin Kessler (Wytheville), Harley Jennings (Bluefield, WV) vs.

Isaac Yan (Charlotte, NC), Andrew Warner (Princeton, WV) vs. Chanler Wimmer (Lebanon), Steven Sammons (Clifton Forge) vs. Glenn Coats (Wytheville), Alex Patton (Princeton, WV) vs.

Dustin Brewster (Tazewell), Erika Dillow (Princeton, WV) vs. Montana Smith (Wytheville) and Jeremy Walker (Wytheville) vs. Richard Farley (Wytheville).

To keep up with everything regarding the event go to the Titans of the Cage facebook page or visit online at www. tocfights.com

Campbell: Keeping up the family tradition

From Page 10

he added with a smile.

“It is a bond that Ty and I will always have.”

More than that, Doug

is grateful for the memories they have on the basketball court together capturing rebounds in each other’s honor.

“It’s just really spe-

cial times together,” he recalled. However, Doug is not fond of discussing his own achievements, but would rather focus on

those of his son.

“My time has passed,” he stated. “This is his time and I want him to embrace these special achievements and en-

joy them.”

Doug is also happy that he will get to see his son in action as a college basketball player.

“I look forward to

still grabbing those rebounds for him for another four years,” Doug said proudly of Ty. “I’m glad he has the chance to continue playing.”

PAGE 16

April 2024

College: Art From Page 3

m Catch rea

er Travel

Wytheville Police Chief attends Washington, D.C., event

D

statewide honors. College poetry winners from across Virginia will participate at a live performance of their original theme-related poems at the Dickinson Fine and Performing Arts Center at Piedmont Virginia Community College in Charlottesville on April 6, and a chance to be named “Poet Laureate” of Virginia’s Community Colleges. A panel of distinguished judges will determine the winner of the competition based on the individual’s original poetry, a private interview, and a performance of their poem.

Select works of visual art from participating colleges also will be on display at PVCC on April 6 and at the Virginia Community College System’s New Horizons

Wytheville Chief of Police Joel Hash was invited to Washington DC to attend a special event Honoring Black Leaders across the nation during Black History Month.

art | community | heritage

Shown left to right are Sen. Mark Warner, Hash, U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, and Sen. Tim Kaine.

Fair: Young farmers From Page 3

pated during the State Fair. Additionally, five $2,000 youth development scholarships were offered for participants in any State Fair competition.

A $1,000 scholarship also was offered to participants in State Fair 4-H, FFA or youth craft, skill or trade competitions. That scholarship was part of the Gatewood Holland Stoneman Endowment, established in

2018 in memory of W.N. Stoneman Jr. The Stoneman family was active in the fair and other agricultural causes.

For the Applied Youth Livestock Scholarships, judging was based on applicants’ livestock show participation, as well as on leadership, community service activities and an essay. The top applicants were chosen based on their written application and a video interview. The scholarships were offered in three age

groups: Juniors (9-12), Intermediate (13-15) and Seniors (16 and older).

Funds allocated for those scholarships represent a portion of proceeds from the eighth annual Youth Livestock Sale of Champions benefit auction, held Sept. 30, 2023.

In the senior category, Isaac Miller of Wythe County won honorable mention, winning $1,204 Abigail Miller took first in the intermediate division, taking home $2,168.

systemwide conference in Roanoke the following week.

“The work of our students is wonderful,” said VCCS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Carla Kimbrough. “I’m so grateful to college coordinators who organized the competitions at their colleges, and the judges at the college level who helped us find true gems of creativity in this inaugural event.”

With the support of Virginia’s Humanities, the winners from all 20 participating colleges will have their poetry and visual arts featured in a book to be published this summer. The Virginia Humanities grant also supported professional development for the college poet laureates and top visual artists

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