The Southwest Virginia Sun- Smyth Edition December

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December 2024

Every day in America, thousands of people undergo gastric bypass surgery in an effort to combat severe obesity.

Ken Heath is one of them, having experienced both the highs

Volume 2, No. 8

Three Smyth County schools were among the 92 statewide to earn the Board of Education Highest Achievement Award.

The board of education recently recognized 141 schools for high achievement with 92 earning the highest award and another 49 earning the continuous improvement award.

The Highest Achievement Award is based on performance during the 2023-2024 school year and the Continuous Improvement Award uses

PAGE 10

Learning to live in a new body of weight loss and the challenge of keeping it off. Despite trying every diet, program, and even surgery available, Heath faced the harsh reality that for many, the weight returns— sometimes more aggressively than before.

Ken’s battle with his weight began early.

As a child, he was labeled "husky,” and by fourth grade, he struggled to fit into school desks. His report cards routinely carried the checkmark in the "overweight” box.

As he hit puberty, the weight gain accelerated.

In junior high, he endured teasing and r em a r k s a b ou t h i s shape.

One friend commented that he was shaped like a Coke bottle, but others were far less kind. The painful memory of a classmate’s yearbook message—"Why don’t you lose some weight?”— still lingers.

High school didn’t bring relief.

Ken was never an athlete, but he found solace in the band.

Even then, his weight made things difficult.

H e re c a ll s w e a r i n g his father’s old shirts and sla cks t o hid e his growing size. One night, at a high school photo shoot, his band uniform split at the seams.

The humiliation was overwhelming. At 16, Ken’s father decided it was time for a change.

He took Ken to a doct or w h o p re sc r ibed

amphetamines—then a common weight loss tool. The drugs helped; t h e po u nd s m e lt e d away, and for a brief time, Ken felt a sense of victory. But the side effects left him disoriented, as if life wasmoving too fast. Ultimately, Ken chose to stop the medication, and the weight returned.

Life after high school continued at a hectic pace. Ken worked long hours at his first job in Mount Airy, North Carolina, while attending community college.

With little time for sleep and even less for proper meals, junk food became a staple, and the pounds piled on. The recession of the early 1980s forced his family to move back to Marion, where they relied on food stamps and government aid. Despite limited resources, his weight continued to climb.

H eat h t r ied e very weight loss solution on the market: Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, New Weigh, and eventually, gastric bypass surgery. At his heaviest, he tipped the scales at over 540 pounds.

Each time, he’d lose weight only for it to return. It wasn’t a matter of willpower; it was a relentless cycle of temporary success and subsequent defeat.

He explains, "I could no more cure myself of obesity than I could cure myself of cancer.

It’s a disease.”

By 2017, Heath leveled out at 375 pounds and managed to maintain that weight for a

few years. But a series of health setbacks— hi p and knee injuries—paired with the pandemic led to weight gain. His frustration grew as his suits no longer fit, and he found himself digging through the attic for his largest clothes.

In March 2022, Ken’s doctor prescribed Wegovy, a medication that changed his life. For the first time, he felt full.

The constant mental chatter about food disappeared, and his cravings shifted.

He no longer desired sweets or chips, and food became fuel rather than a reward.

"There wasn’t an ‘aha’ moment,” Heath says, "but I finally had the tools to make the life-saving changes I’d only dreamed of before.”

In just nine months, Heath lost 100 pounds.

His doctor then switched him to ZEPBOUND to continue the weight loss. Now at 330 pounds—the lowest he’s been in a decade—Ken is planning for the nex t phase: addressing stubborn problem areas, undergoing skin removal surgery and preparing for a hip replacement.

"Weight loss on a GLP1 isn’t that different from traditional weight loss,” Heath says. "It’s a game of number —calories in, calories out. But the medication helps tame my appetite, making it easier to stick to my goals.”

Even with the help of

medication, the journey hasn’t been without setbacks.

"Plateaus still suck,” Heath admits. "I hate not seeing the weight drop off or seeing it bump up a bit. But I’ve come to realize it truly is a marathon, not a sprint. It can be disheartening at times, but I look at overall health—how my clothes fit, how I feel—instead of just the numbers.”

Heath is now learning how to live in a body that’s no longer the biggest in the room.

"The weirdest thing

is seeing my body as it was, still yet,” he says.

"I’ll pick up a 2X shirt or a pair of pants and think they would never fit, when they end up being a bit too loose.”

Heath firmly believes that one day, science will confirm that obesity is a disease—not just a result of poor choices or laziness.

"Too many doctors still see obesity as a lack of willpower or an unwillingness to change,” Heath says.

"But it’s not that easy.

Science is proving it’s an imbalance, and like so many other complex

diseases, there’s no single cause or single cure.”

For those struggling with weight, Ken offers empathy and encouragement.

"Obesity is a disease, not a choice. It requires treatment, support, and patience,” he says.

"There is hope. Never give up.”

As Ken continues his health journey, he contends that the best is yet to come.

"At 62, I’m past my G Q m odeli ng days.

I just want to fit into

PAGE 11

Rankings

2023-2024 and prior school years.

Marion and Saltville el em en t a r y sch oo l s and Northwood High School were awarded the Highest Achievement Award. Rich Vallley Elementary School was awarded the Continuous Improvement Award.

"The Board is thrilled to recognize and celebrate the 141 schools who have earned this y ear ’s to p a ch i evement,” said Board of Education Presid e n t G r a ce T u r n er Creasey. "We applaud

The Marion Senior High School Theatre team secured second place at the Southwest District competition on Saturday with their captivating oneact play, "The Storm in the Barn.”

The performance received high praise from judges and audiences alike.

This achievement has earned the team a spot in the Super Regional competition, set

to be hosted at Marion Senior High School on Nov.23.

"The talent of this group has impressed me from the start of the season. They’ve developed the production as true storytellers. One of my favorite moments was when we first built out our chorus rhythms — it was a lightbulb moment where they grasped the vision for the play and brought it to life.

I can’t wait to see how they grow over the next

two weeks,” said theatre sponsor, teacher Kristin Untiedt.

Several individual accolades highlighted the team's success. Zoey Karnes was named an Outstanding Actor for her role, showcasing impressive talent and emotional depth. Trinity Thornburg received an Honorable Mention, and the chorus was also recognized with an Honorable Mention for their collective performance.

New body seats at the ball game, shop off the rack, and have a body propor-

tionate top to bottom.

Thank goodness we live in an age where modern medicine can help, and I’m looking

forward to utilizing every tool possible to make my fourth quarter here on earth as good as it gets.”

their commitment to excellence and highquality education. Congratulations to all the Vi r gi ni a ed ucat or s, parents, and communities supporting these schools in achieving at the highest level.”

"Being recognized in the Exemplar School Recognition Program is a direct reflection of a school's commitment to high performance and increasing excellence," said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons. "I am proud of each of the 141 schools that have been recognized today,

and I commend each school’s leadership, educators, students, and community for earning this achievement.”

20 2 4- 2 02 5 B o a r d of Education Highest Achievement Award Schools recognized for Highest Achievem ent dem ons t rat ed high levels of success across all school quality indicators, including success in narrowing achievement gaps, as well as: • Achieve Performance Level One for reading, mathematics, and science based on

PAGE 12

The Lincoln Theatre presents The Lonesome River Band Christmas Show on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m.

Since its formation decades ago, Lonesome River Band has continued its reputation as one of the most respected names in bluegrass music. Five-time Int er na ti ona l Blu egrass Music Association (IBMA) Banjo Player of the Year, and winner of the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, Sammy Shelor leads the group who are constantly breaking new g ro u nd i n ac oust ic music. With two stellar lead vocalists, Jesse Smathers (guitar) and Adam Miller (mando-

the student pass rate (which does not include growth measures) for the "all students” group in the school, as well as for each student group in the school. schools with two student groups could have no more than a five-percentage point difference between the performance of each student group and the "all students” group; schools with three or more student groups could have no more than a ten-percentage point difference between the performance of each student group and the "all students”

the season, but their upcoming Christmas show is decked out with all of the stellar musicianship that can be expected of the award-winning band with an ultra-festive twist.

This bluegrass Christmas special promises to charm the whole family for only $15 per seat. For more information about The Lincoln Theatre and event tickets, please visit www.thelincoln. org or call (276)7836092. lin), and the impressive talents of Mike Hartgrove (fiddle) and Kameron Keller (bass), the band seamlessly comes together, performing

the trademark sound that fans continue to embrace.

Lonesome River Band put on a top-tier performance no matter

Rankings

group.

• Achieve at Level One in the Chronic Absenteeism, Graduation and Completion Index (GC I), an d Dro pout Rate school quality indicators.

Schools recognized f o r co nt in u ou s im provement met at least one of the following criteria based on performance from school years 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 20232024.

The school demonstrates an increase: • in the combined rate for math, reading, and science for each of the past three years, with a total increase across the three years of ten points or more;

• in the combined rate for two or more student groups in reading and math for each of the past three years, with a total increase across the three years of ten points or more; or • in the GCI for each of the past three years, with a total increase across the three years of four percent or more; and the school demonstr ates a decrease in the dropout rate for each of the past three years with the total reduction across three years of fifteen percent or more of the fir st y ear’s dropout rate.

Frye third in Patriot's Pen essay contest Frye finishes third in Patriot’s Pen essay Northwood Middle School seventh-grade student Kenzley Frye placed third in the 2024-2025 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot's Pen essay co n t e st sp o n s o r ed

by VFW Post 4667 in Marion.

This year's theme was "M y Voice in America's Democracy?".

Kenzley was the only seventh-grader and youngest winner within Smyth County.

PAGE 13

The holiday season is upon us, and many of us are eager to deck the halls and trim the tree. But for pet owners, the festive season can also bring some unique challenges. As we prepare to bring a Christmas tree into our homes, it's essential to consider the safety of our furry friends.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Christmas trees and decora-

The Virginia Department of Education today a nnoun ced the awarding of $12 mill i on i n S c h o o l S e curity Equipment Grants to 96 school divisions and 472 schools to help protect students, faculty and staff, and visitors.

"The equipment purchased with these grants will help ensure the safety of all students and staff in Virginia’s public schools,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons.

"Every child deserves a high-quality education

tions can pose a significant threat to pets. From electrical shock and poisoning to obstruction and entanglement, the risks are real. But with a little planning and precautions, you can create a safe and joyful holiday environment for both your pets and your family.

Here are some tips to keep your pets safe around the Christmas tree: Secure the tree: Make sure your tree is stable and won't

experience, one where they can deeply focus on learning and growing the minute they step onto a school bus or pass through the doors of their school. These grants help create safe, supportive envir on ments, both on school g r o u n d s a n d w h il e traveling to and from school.”

Most of the equipment applied and approved for purchase include voice and video internal communication systems, mass notification systems, security card access systems, visitor ID badging

tip over if your pet bumps into it or tries to climb it.

Anchor the tree to the ceiling or a wall if necessary.

Keep decorations out of reach: Pets are naturally curious, so keep decorations, especially those with toxic materials like tinsel, garlands, and ornaments, out of reach.

Electrical safety: Keep electrical cords and lights out of reach of pets to avoid electrical shock. Use cord protec-

systems, surveillance cameras, two-way radios, security vestibules, interior bus cameras, and bus two-way radios. The 2024-2025 s c ho o l y e a r g r a n t s have be en awar ded on a competitive basis, with each awarded school divisions eligible to receive grant awards up to $250,000.

The 472 schools were awarded funds based on a rank ordering of applications’ point total on the competitive application criteria.

Smyth County received $100,524 for Atkins Elementary, Chil-

Lowe joins Ballad medical associates Stephanie Lowe, DNP, CNM, has joined Ballad Health Medical Associates OB/GYN, specializing in women’s reproductive health and pregnancy.

At Ballad Health Medical Associates OB/GYN, Lowe offers a broad range of services and treatments, including breastfeeding, contraceptive management, hormone therapy, menopause care, menstrual disorders, natural family planning, pap smear testing, STI testing and

women’s preventive care.

"I believe that in order to really help women, I have to listen to what they are telling me and understand what their goals are,” Lowe said.

Lowe earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master’s in nursing at Frontier Nursing University in Hyden, Kentucky, after completing her undergraduate work at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee. She is board-certified in midwifery.

tors or conceal cords with tape or a cord organizer.

Toxic plants: Some Christmas plants, like poinsettias and mistletoe, are toxic to pets. Keep them out of reach or choose pet-friendly alternatives.

Supervise: Keep an eye on your pets when they're near the tree to prevent any accidents.

Pet-proof the tree: Consider using a baby gate or pet gate to block access to the

howie Middle, Marion Elementary, Marion

tree when you're not supervising.

Provide alternative stimulation: Keep your pets occupied with puzzle toys, treats, and playtime to distract them from the tree.

By following these simple tips, you can create a safe and enjoyable holiday season for your pets. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your furry friends.

Middle, Saltville Elementary and Sugar

Grove Elementary schools.

PAGE 14

Tw o N or t h w o o d hi g hschoolers were selected for the Class 1 All-State volleyball first team by the Virginia High School League.

S e ni or Sy nd e y C a rt e r was selected among the 10

Marion senior Domenic Bruzzo-Morello made his final high school cross country race one to remember, placing fourth at the Class 2 Cross Country State Championship on Saturday at Virginia Tech. Bruzzo-Morello’s time of 16:48.00 earned him all-state honors, marking Marion’s first all-state runner since 2004.

Fl oyd Co unty senior Mason Eurchull (1 6: 15 . 7 0) c la im e d the individual title, narrowly edging out his teammate Quilan

named to the All-State first team. Senior Karlee Frye was named to the second team.

The Virginia High School League named its all-state teams this week, picking Giles junior Sophie Taylor

as the Class 1 Player of the Year.

Standing 6 feet tall, Taylor finished the season with 750 kills, 50 aces, 40 blocks, 367 digs, a .373 hit efficiency, and a 92% serve percentage. Her 750 kills are a

VHSL single-season record.

Committed to play at Ole Miss, it is her third straight selection to the all-state first team and her second straight Player of the Year award after earning Class 1 Player of the Year honors in

2023. Taylor’s1,830 career kills are the third-most in VHSL history, and her 46 kills tied the VHSL singlegame record in the Spartans state semifinal loss to Au-

PAGE 15

Bruzzo-Morello places fourth Beegle (16:16.20). Tazewell’s Drake Young (16:58.30) also earned all-state recognition, finishing eighth.

Clarke County secured the team championship, with Floyd County as the runner-up in the boys race.

In the girls race, Tazewell’s Abigail Rhudy dominated the competition, winning her first state title with

a time of 18:58.30, over a minute ahead of the nearest competitor.

Marion senior Ruby Hoerter delivered a solid performance, finishing in the top half of the field at 40th with a time of 23:33.90.

On the team side, Floyd County clinched the girls state championship, narrowly defeating Clarke County by one point, 44-

45, in a hard-fought Class 2 battle.

Earlier in the season, Marion Senior High School’s cr oss-country team delivered impressive performances at the 2024 VHSL Region 2D Championships, held Wednesday, Nov. 6, at UVA-Wise. Senior Domenico Bruzzo-Morello led the way, capturing the Class 2 Region D Runner of the Year

title with a dominant firstplace finish, clocking in at 17:03.12.

In the girls' race, Marion senior Ruby Hoerter raced to a fourth-place finish, crossing the line in 23:32.64.

Bruzzo-Morello and Hoerter will now represent Marion High at the Class 2 state championships on Nov. 16 at Virginia Tech, competing alongside the state’s top

Hurricane Volleyball in Action

burn.

Auburn head coach Sherry Millirons was named the Class 1 Coach of the Year.

Millirons guided Auburn to a 29-2 record and its sixth straight Class 1 cham-

pionship and ninth overall.

Millirons led the Eagles to the Class 1 state volleyball title with a 3-0 (25-10, 25-10, 25-16) win over Rappahannock in the state finals. Millirons has guided the Eagles program since 1995 and won 538 matches,

the third-most wins in VHSL history. Along with her nine championships over the past 13 seasons (2012-14, 2019-24), the Eagles were runners-up in 2015.

The all-state volleyball team consists of nine position players and one

libero. Only those players selected to the all-region first-team are eligible for selection to the all-state team.

The all-state selection comm i t t ee c om p r ise s eig ht coaches, with two from each region.

runners.

Marion’s boys’ team placed fourth overall in the meet, with several strong individual performances. Alex Armbrister led the additional pack, finishing 19th with a time of 19:00.06. Other results included W ill Burkett, who placed 36th with a time of 20:51.31; Josh Marousek, 45th in 22:37.64; I s a a c George, 46th in 22:57.71; Jonathan Barbrow, 51st in 23:49.14; and Collin Creggar, who completed his race in 27:09.42.

For the girls, freshman Kortnie Peak capped her season with a 41st-place finish, clocking in at 35:52.67.

PAGE 16

Wytheville Community College (WCC) celebrated the 14th cohort of power line workers in a graduation ceremony led by Perry Hughes, WCC VicePresident of Workforce Development and Occupational Programs, on the Wytheville campus on Friday, Nov. 1. " In t he m i ddl e of the ceremony’s program, we define hero.

What we witnessed in our own region and in North Carolina in the last few weeks, has shown you what it takes to be a hero.

Some may think this is just a job, but to the person without oxygen and in need to have t he i r p ow er t ur ne d

back on, you are their hero,” Hughes said to the graduates. "Our slogan is Rising to the Top, and today, you achieved that climb.”

As of this class, 357 stu dent s have su ccessful ly complet ed the power line worker training program at WCC since its incept ion in 20 17. M ike Morrison, Power Line Worker Training Instructor, addressed the group of graduates offering advice and praising the students’ success.

"You should never be okay with second place. If you do, you’ll never strive to do more.

It was a pleasure to watch you all work to-

SWVA Media, doing business asSWVAsun.com, is proud to announce that it is the first recognized online newspaper in Smyth County authorized to publish public/legal notices. This landmark achievement marks a significant step forward for local residents seeking convenient access to vital legal information.

Previously, public notices were solely published with print newspapers, limiting accessibility for those who don't subscribe or have difficulty obtaining physical copies of newspapers. SWVA Media's online platform offers a readily available and searchable archive of public notices, ensuring transparency and wider dissemination of important legal information.

"We're thrilled to be at the forefront of this change in Smyth County," says Curtis Hawkins, Publisher

gether these last fourteen weeks, to form relationships, and to go out into the workforce.

We need you. You are the next generation that America will build upon. You are the backbone,” Morrison said.

Students that complete the program in 14 weeks gain certifications and the skills to become successful

at SWVA Media. "By offering legal public notices online, we aim to empower the community by making crucial information more accessible and user-friendly."

Benefits of Online Public Notices: • Increased Accessibility: Residents can access public notices 24/7 from any device with internet access, eliminating the need for physical copies or newspaper subscriptions.

• Improved Search Functionality: The online platform allows users to easily search for specific notices by date, keyword, or category.

• Environmental Sustainability: By minimizing reliance on printed newspapers, SWVA Media is contributing to a more sustainable future.

SWVA Media is a leading online news and media company serving Southwest Virginia.

power line workers.

Skills that these students learn include electrical theory, aerial framing, rigging, safety, commercial truck driving, and the use of utility service equipment.

WCC hosted the students and their fami-

lies for breakfast before the ceremony.

After the ceremony, the new graduates accompanied Jimmy Powers, WCC Power Line Instructor, to the pole yard to show off a little of their newly acquired climbing skills to families and friends.

Powers is a graduate of the first WCC Power Line program and is now a lead instructor for the students.

He said, "in the first weeks, we challenged them [the students] to learn that if you hit a brick wall, they should face it head on. You will face other brick

walls. That is life. I believe in you. I saw where you started and where you finished. If you stick with it, you will get there.”

Many of the graduates are either already employed with a power line company or have moved forward to participate in WCC’s Underground Power Line Training Program.

For more information about WCC’s Power Line Worker program, please call 223-4717, or email Lisa Lowe, W ork forc e Development Credentials and Career Coach at llowe@ wcc.vccs.edu.

PAGE 17

Lifestyles Nov. 8 to Dec. 22

Wohlfahrt Haus: Celebrate the season in song and dance with “Christmas in the Park,” wrapping up with a nativity.

Thursday, Dec. 12

Lincoln Theatre: The Lonesome River Band brings its Christmas Show to the Lincoln Theatre in Marion for a 7 p.m. showcase.

Friday, Dec. 13

Lincoln Theatre: What’s your favorite color? Get fully into the Christmas spirit with holiday classic "Elf” at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Saturday, Dec. 14

Millwald Theatre: The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra will be in Wytheville for a 7:30 p.m. “Holiday Brass” show.

Lincoln Theatre: Dailey & Vincent will make a stop on their 2024 Christmas Tour for a 7:30 p.m. concert.

Thursday, Dec. 19 Lincoln Theatre: A Celtic Christmas by A

The Lincoln Theatre presents A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m. and 4 Calling Birds on Friday, Dec. 20, at 7 p.m.

A Celtic Christmas: Irish Song & Dance Spectacular Witness the very best World Champions of Irish dance take to the stage for a magical night of tunes, taps, and tradition as they tell the story of two star-crossed lovers.

Immerse yourself in an authentic Celtic experience by laughing, clapping and singing along to carols under the mistletoe.

A Celtic Christmas transports the audience to a time and place where music and dance are the cornerstones of celebration. Featuring an unparalleled cast of World & National Champion Irish

Entertainment

Get Out and Go

Taste of Ireland will celebrate the joy of the season with Irish song and dance at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 20 Lincoln Theatre: 4 Calling Birds, featuring the musical talents of Ian and Evan Benjamin, Erinn Dearth and Dan Beckmann will create a live holiday soundtrack at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 21 Millwald Theatre: Actor John Hardy will bring his one-man show of “A Christmas Carol” to the Millwald Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 30 Lincoln Theatre: Pride Chats will be at the theatre from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 31 Lincoln Theatre: Ring in the New Year with Eagles tunes as tribute band 7 Bridges brings their stunningly accurate show to the Lincoln at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 7

dancers, alongside some of the most sought-after traditio nal musicians from around the globe, A Celtic Christmas brings the magic of Christmas in Ireland to

Lincoln Theatre: In collaboration with Appalachian Echoes, the theatre will host a live community theater performance in 2025. An interest meeting is set for 6 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 11 Lincoln Theatre: Song of the Mountains returns for 2025 with a 7 p.m. performance of Becky Buller and Scythian.

Friday, Jan. 17

Millwald Theatre: Cowboy Bill, also known as William Lee Martin, brings his comedy to Wytheville for a 7:30 p.m. show.

Lincoln Theatre: The Bristol Academy of Music will present Aladdin Jr. live on Jan. 17 and 18 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18 Millwald Theatre: Emo Night Karaoke is set for 7:30 p.m. Sign up at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.

Saturday, Feb. 1

Lincoln Theatre: Song of the Mountains welcomes The Seldom Scene and Amanda Cook Band at 7 p.m.

the stage this year.

The performance fuses contemporary and heartfelt airs to tell a romantic tale as old as time. Dazzling feet meet moments of Irish wit

in this unforgettable night of storytelling and entertainment. Reserve your ticket for $45-$65 and don’t miss the magic on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m.

4 Calling Birds This holiday showcase will feature the musical talents of internationally acclaimed performers Ian and Eva Benjamin, as well as Erinn Dearth and Dan Beckmann of Letters From Home! Celebrate the season with an evening of dazzling vocal performances, enchanting harmonies, and a message of hope and endurance of spirit — all set to a soundtrack of December’s most beloved holiday classics.

4 Calling Birds will perform on Friday, Dec. 20, at 7 p.m. Tickets for this delightful display of worldclass caroling are only $28 including fees. For more information about The Lincoln Theatre and event tickets, please visit www.thelincoln. org or call (276)783-6092.

PAGE 18

Radford University is excited to announce the launch of the Tartan Transfer program, a new initiative designed to streamline the transfer process for students from eight Virginia Community College System (VCCS) schools.

Radford and community college representatives signed the transfer agreement at a ceremony on Nov. 6 on Radford’s campus.

This prog ram will create an accessible pathway for community college students seeking to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree at Radford. The university is the only four-year public institution in the commonwealth that has partnered with this many community colleges to provide a seamless experience.

The Tartan Transfer Program is a strategic collaboration between Radford University and

several of Virginia’s Community Colleges including New River C omm unit y C ol lege (NRCC), Mountain Empire Community College (MECC), Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC), Patrick Henry Community College, Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC), Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC), Virginia Western Community College (VWCC), and Wytheville Community College (WCC).

Through this partnership, students will benefit from a range of features aimed at making higher education easier to navigate and more affordable and

Avery Cornett emerged victorious from a five-person field seeking the Marion mayoral seat. Cornett claimed 843 votes, more than 200 ahead of his closest challenger, Tom Graham, who received 613 votes.

Also running were Suzanne Jennings, who received 394 votes, Amanda Currin, who received 292, and Herbert Clay, who received 165.

Five candidates were also seeking one of three seats available on the Marion council, with Hunter Atwell, Todd May and Jim Gates securing the spots. Atwell received 1,264 votes, May 1,080 and Gates 922.

Larry Carter netted 699 votes and Janene Walker 683.

Saltville also saw two hotly contested

career focused.

"Tartan Transfer demonstrates that R a d f o r d U n i v er s i ty and Virginia’s Community Colleges are committed to creating accessible and affordable degree pathways for Virginians, and to building bridges across the commonwealth. We are proud of how this partnership formalizes a seamless transfer process, and adds even greater value through dedi cated academic advising and access to Radford’s unique student life opportunities.

I sincerely appreciate the presidents of each of our partner community colleges for their support of the Tartan

Transfer program, and for their roles in helping to improve degree attainment and economic success in communities throughout western Virginia,” said R a d f o r d U n i v er s i ty President Bret Danilowicz.

Key benefits of the Tartan Transfer Program include affordability, maximized transfer credits, personalized advising, early campus integration and events, and career preparation.

"We are excited to provide our Wytheville C omm unit y C ol lege students with addi-

tional educational opportunities by partnering with our four-year university colleagues.

Thank you to Radford University and the Tartan Transfer program for providing valuable transfer opportunities to ensure that WCC students can achieve their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Dean Sprinkle, WCC president. Radford’s Tartan Transfer program underscores the university’s mission to enhance access to education across Virginia, while prioritizing student affordability and success. By aligning

resources with VCCS institutions, Radford is paving the way for a more inclusive and streamlined higher education experience.

For more information about the Tartan Transfer program, please visitwww. radfor d.edu/tartantransfer to learn how to participate. To learn more about Wytheville Community College’s transfer opportunities, contact Susan Evans, WCC Dean of Transfer and Educational Partnerships, at (276) 2234740, or sevans@wcc. vccs.edu.

PAGE 19

Gov. Glenn Youngkin, alongside Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera and other local leaders, inaugurated the Southwest Virginia Healthcare Excellence Academy Lab School (SWVA HEALS) on Oct. 29 at the Emory & Henry University Health Sciences Campus in Marion.

This innovative program is set to equip local high school students with essential healthcare skills while earning college credits—empowering the n e x t g e n e r a t i on o f healthcare professionals for the region and addressing a critical workforce gap in rural Virginia.

"Since the beginning, we’ve seen the opportunity for lab schools to change the way we are doing education

and bring the community together. HEALS is an excellent representation of the lab school initiative, harnessing

Election Day races, with Cheri Heath Fullen claimin g the mayor’s seat with 391 votes. Monica Johnson received 232 votes, Jamie Michael Roark took 95 and Bryan Morris 28.

Six were vying, too, for a slot on the Saltville council, with Suzanne Carter Abramson, R.B. Henderson Jr. and Thomas Norwood Dickerson Jr. finding success. Abramson re-

ceived 519 votes, Henderson took 481 and Dickerson 262. Tyler Dalton Arnold received 215 votes, Noah Horn had 166 and David Huff 163.

Two School Board races were contested as well Tuesday. Lynn White won election to the Park District seat, beating William Ammi Fields 934 votes to 743.

Sue Dye Tilson won the Rye Valley District seat in a race divided

by 26 ballots. Tilson received 1,052 while Gwyn Combs received 1,027, according to unofficial results.

Gary Heninger was unopposed in the Chilhowie mayor’s race, receiving 573 votes. Bill "Coach” Clear, Julie Sturgill and P.J. Wolfe were unopposed in the Chilhowie Town Council race. Sturgill finished with 395 votes.

C l e a r r e c ei ved 3 9 0 votes, and Wolfe 361.

Northwood High Sc hool seniors D e e H oover and Aubr ey Tolbert were commended for their exceptional work at the 23rd An-

nual Barter Theatre’s Y o u n g Pl a yw r i g ht s ’ Festival on Oct.28.

Their play, entitled The Adventures of Nexus, was selected as

one of the top eigh tfrom over 250 regional entries and showcased by the Barter Players.

the intersection between health, excel-

lence, and education.

This lab school demonstrates that we have the capability to fulfill workforce needs, like in the healthcare community, in each Virginia community," said Youngkin.

SWVA HEALS is a collaborative initiative offering high school students from Smyth, Wythe, Bristol City, and Washington counties hands-on training, job shadowing, and dual-enrollment courses through partnerships with Emory & Henry University and local hospitals.

Aime d at 10t h t o 12th graders interested in nursing, behavioral health, and other healt hcare caree rs, the program addresses the rural healthcare workforce shortage by inspiring students to pursue and sustain their careers locally.

Dr. Lou Fincher, interim president of Emory & Henry University, underscored the importance of teamwork in her welcome address, saying, "Today, you’ll hear again and again about the collaborative spirit that

PAGE 20

Northwood High School Panther Pride Marching Band wins big at the 8th Annual Cougar Band Classic hosted by by the Golden Cougar Marching Band of Pulaski County High School in Pulaski on Saturday, Nov.2.

The band received the following awards for Class A: 1st Place Marching, 1st Place

Drum Major, 3rd Place Music, 3rd Place General Effect, 3rd Place Percussion, 3rd Place Colorguard, and 3rd Place Overall in Class A with an Excellent Rating.

The band is under the director of Erica Coates, with the colorguard under the direction of Kelsey Waddle.

Program launched at E&H brought this program to life.”

This milestone comes shortly after the program’s inaugural orientation on Aug. 9 at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, with 45 juniors now undertaking in-person instruction across Emory & Henry’s Health Sciences Campus in Marion and the Higher Education Center in Abingdon.

The program anticipates enrolling 49 sophomores in spring.

Dante Lee, execu-

tive director of SWVA HEALS, hig hlighted the program’s potential to inspire impactful careers: "The Southwest Virginia Healthcare Excellence Academy Lab School is a model of collaboration among our partnering school divisions, our local community colleges, the A. Linwood Holton Governor's School, Emory & Henry University, Old Dominion University, Ballad Health, Wytheville Community Hospital and the Virginia Department of Educa-

tion. Together, these stakeholders have created an innovative, student-centered curriculum that is tailored for those who aspire to hold a career in healthcare.

Secretary of Education Ai mee Guidera shared a pivotal moment in the program’s development: "As I look around, I’m reminded of the meeting at the S ou t h w e st Vi rg ini a Higher Education Center where four of you shared the vision for this lab school. I remember thinking, this

is cool and amazing.

What we envisioned, launched by the Governor in January 2022, was a commitment to preparing every student for success in life and in their careers, by harnessing the strengths of our community. And today, we've seen the power of one word echoed by every speaker: collaboration."

With the Governor’s attendance, the event underscored Virginia’s commitment to fostering innovative educational programs that

meet regional workforce needs.

SWVA HEALS is designed to address the shortage of healthcare professionals in rural Virginia by encouraging students from these communities to build and sustain their careers locally. Supported by a College Partnership Laboratory School grant from the Virginia Department of Education, with Old Dominion University as the fiscal agent, the SWVA HEALS initiative represents a dynamic pa r t ne rs hi p a m o ng

Emory & Henry University, regional school divisions, hospitals, and higher education institutions. The Virginia Lab Schools program was established to develop educational partnerships and careeroriented programs that inspire students and strengthen the state’s workforce across all grade levels. Through immersive experiences and strong community ties, students can envision successful futures in healt hc ar e r ight where they live and learn.

PAGE 21

A Smyth County property received a portion of $14.4 million in Virginia Land Conservation Foundation funding announced recently by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

The money will help co nserv e a tota l of 11,220 acres across the state.

The Virg inia Outdoors Foundation received $914,017 for a conservation easement to protect 850 acres of working farmland in Smyth and Washing-

ton counties. The acreage, the Greg and Kyli Waddle Property, will be held by the foundation.

State officials said the funds will help protect karst geology with nearly 200 mapped sinkholes within a few hundred feet of the Middle Fork Holston River. The funds will also help protect habitat for a state-threatened bird, the loggerhead shrike, and a rare bird, the bobolink.

The 28 projects re-

ceiving grant awards for fiscal year 2025 include investments in new parks for the public, conservation easements to protect working ti mberland and farmland and two land acquisitions by Virginia’s Tribal Nations.

"We take pride in sharing the rich beauty of Virginia’s natural resources and historical places and remain committed to increasing public access so more Virginians can enjoy them,” Young-

The Lincoln Theatre presents the Dailey & Vincent Christmas Tour 2024 on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m.

The wildly popular musical group Dailey & Vincent will return to The Lincoln Theatre to celebrate the Christmas season with their 2024 Christmas Tour. This special performance will include festive classics and fan favorites such as "White Christmas" and "Rudolph

Theatre Bristol presents the hilarious comedy, A Tuna Christmas, sequel to the riotous show, Greater Tuna, and brings Christmas magic to the ARTspace stage weekends Dec.13-22. Tickets are on sale now at theatrebristol.org/tickets.

It’s Christmas in the third-smallest town in Texas. Radio station news personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie, played by Mike Locke and Fred Dunagan, respectively, report on various Yuletide activities,

kin. "Our parks, open spaces and other vital outdoor recreation assets drive tourism and economic growth, and they provide residents a place to connect with na t u re. S uppor t i ng Virginians so they can continue to work their farmlands and forests helps our key agriculture and forestry sectors continue to thrive.”

Grants were awarded in the following categories: farmland preservation, forest preservation, historic pres-

the Red Nose Reindeer,” as well as original songs from their Christmas album, The Sounds of Christmas.

Dailey & Vincent is an award-winning bluegrass group delivering an allAmerican infusion of country and gospel.

H a v i ng r e l e a se d n i n e chart-topping albums since 2007, Dailey & Vincent continue to warrant recognition and praise for their genrebending style. They are five-

including the hot competition in the annual lawn-display contest, and Joe Bob Lipsey’s production of "A Christmas Carol" that the theatre is depending on to pay the overdue electric bill. With Locke and Dunagan, Dan Gray, Hunter Johnson, Richard Albright, and Daniel Wallen round out the cast of six who portray 22 over-the-top, eccentric characters, quick changes and all, throughout the show.

Written by Jaston Williams, Joe

ervation, natural area protection, and open spaces and parks.

"By making significant investments that not only protect natural resources, but also our historic resources, we are able to ensure that Virginians can benefit from visiting t hes e s peci al pl a ces,” said Virginia Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Travis Voyles. "When we increase public access opportunities, we allow Virginians and those

time Grammy Award winners individually, three-time Grammy Award nominees collectively, four-time DOVE Award winners, and winners of 35 IBMA Awards altogether.

T he D ai ley & Vi ncen t Christmas Tour is the perfect family-friendly experience for celebrating the true Holiday spirit. From jazzy renditions of high-energy tunes like "Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” to

Sears, and Ed Howard, many colorful Tuna residents, some recognized from Greater Tuna and some appearing for the first time, join in this holiday farce recommended for mature, sophisticated audiences who appreciate immature unsophisticated humor.

A Tuna Christmas is directed by Chris McVey, with support from stage manager Sam McCall and props artisan Rebecca Ryan, along with Luke Gray, Albert Tester, Amy

visiting to experience all that the Commonwealth has to offer.”

"These projects selected for VLCF grant funding will help protect ecologically important habitats around t h e C om m o nw e al th that support rare plant species as well as a variety of wildlife,” said Director of the Department of Conservation and Recreation Matthew Wells. "Virginians will benefit from the improved water quality of our rivers, creeks

more dialed-in and heartfelt renderings of tracks like "Mary Did You Know,” the group is sure to delight every face in the audience and send them home beaming with Christmas cheer The Dailey & Tickets for this holiday special start at $43 and may be purchased online, over the phone, or at Lola’s at The Lincoln. Don’t wait to reserve your seats for this highly anticipated performance!

Reid, Camille Gray, and producer Samantha Gray.

A Tuna Christmas will be on the ARTspace stage Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Sundays at 2:30 pm, December 13-15 and 2022. Tickets are $15 for adults plus fees and $10 for seniors and students plus fees, and are available at www.theatrebristol.org/tickets.

A Tuna Christmas is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals, concordtheatricals.com.

PAGE 22

Barter Theatre’s 23rd Annual Young Playwrights Festival took place on Oct.28, with one performance in the morning at Gilliam Stage for 344 students, and a public evening performance at Barter’s Smith Theatre.

The 2024 festival included 260 plays written by 399 playwrights from 12 high schools in Virginia and Tennessee. Since its inception in 2002, Barter’s Young Playwrights Festival has includedmore than5,100 plays and over 7,700 playwrights.

2024’s first-place winner

is Alone, written by Madeline Jennings from Marion Senior High School, whose teacher is Kristin Untiedt-Barnett.

The second-place winner is Villains Anonymous, written

by Emily Mullins from Daniel Boone High School, whose teacher is Jamie Arnold.

T hi r d p l ac e is A N ew Chapter, written by Kara Wiggins from Science Hill High School, whose teacher is Seth Grindstaff.

The honorable mention plays, in no particular order, are: Beaufort Anniversary by Kiya Hudson, Ten-

Wytheville Community College (WCC) is proud to announce the graduation of its latest cohort of welding students at Bland Correctional Center. This groundbreaking program, which aims to equip incarcerated individuals with valuable skills, marks a significant milestone in both their personal development and future career prospects.

Graduates of the welding program have completed training that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience, preparing them for high-demand jobs in the skilled trades sector upon their release.

The welding graduates participated in a cap and gown ceremony that included comments from Dr. Dean Sprinkle, WCC President; Mr. Devin Allison, WCC Welding Instructor; and Mr. Perry Hughes, WCC VP of Workforce Development and Occupational Programs; and Warden White, Bland Correctional Center.

Mr. Hughes presented each student with their certificate.

"We are committed to empowering our students with skills that open doors to meaningful careers,” said Dr. Dean Sprinkle, WCC President.

"By providing access to education and job-ready skills, we are not only

nessee High School, Teacher: Amber Davis; Go East by Haelynn Gruell, Science Hill High School, Teacher: Seth Grindstaff; The Adventures of Nexus by Destiny Hoover and Aubrey Tolbert, Northwood High School, Teacher: David Burns; The Death of Iris Crowe by Blaine Adams, Science Hill High School, Teacher: Seth Grindstaff; Vast Distances by Ava Garrett, Tennessee High School, Teacher: Amber Davis.

The Young Playwrights Festival is an annual event

improving individual lives but also building a skilled workforce. We are excited to watch these graduates thrive as they embark on their next chapter.”

This is the second cohort of welding students to graduate from the program. A total of 12 graduates have completed the program. One of these graduates was eligible for an early release from Bland Correctional Center, and Mr. Devin Allison, WCC Welding Instructor, worked with this graduate to receive his certifications before the early release date.

WCC and Bland Correctional Cen-

that cul tivates and celebrates the talent of high school students. The purpose of this Festival is to encourage the development of students' writing skills and creativity, with the added benefit of discovering talented playwrights in our region.

Teachers are taught playwriting by Todd Ristau, professional playwright and director of the Playwright’s Lab at Hollins University. Teachers then instruct their students, who have a 7-week period to create their original works, which are

ter collaborated with other agencies to assist with post release needs to include communicating with second chance employers, providing funding for continuing education, and purchasing needed items for students to use when in the workforce.

One of the graduates said, "We were treated like college students, not just inmates.” Another graduate thanked the WCC representatives for the opportunity, and said, "this is an opportunity that I didn’t have before. I can now further my education and have career opportunities.”

Ms. Ashby Taylor-Perkins is WCC’s Coordinator of Higher Education in

then submitted to Barter.

Every student’s play gets individualized comments and feedback from Barter professionals. The three winning plays are lightly staged at Barter Theatre by professional actors, and the honorable mention plays are given a reading. Writers of the top three plays receive cash prizes and a mentoring session with a Barter professional, which allows the students to have valuable one-on-one time with experts in the field of theatre and playwriting.

Prison Programs. "I am incredibly proud of our recent graduates, who have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout their training, and I have no doubt they will excel in their careers. As they continue their journey in the welding field, I wish them all the best of luck and success,” said Perkins.

"We plan to continue the welding program at the prison and are currently working to add an additional course in Precision Measuring at the facility,” Perkins continued.

For information about WCC’s Prison Programs, contact Ms. TaylorPerkins at (276) 223-4796.

PAGE 23

Nostalgic Virginians are harvesting memories as iconic chestnut trees make a comeback from near extinction.

Chestnut trees once blanketed American forests from New England to Mississippi, and their edible nuts provided food for Native Americans, pioneers and wildlife. Early in the 20th century, a blight destroyed millions of trees.

Now, several disease-resistant chestnut hybrids are being raised across the country.

Multiple varieties of tree nuts were cultivated on 301 acres in the Old Dominion in 2022, according to the latest Census of Agriculture. The largest share of that harvest was chestnuts, produced on 133 acres.

This fall, multiple orchards across the state welcomed customers to

pick their own chestnuts through late October.

After more than a decade of successful online and farmers market sales, Kim and David Bryant knew that fresh, local chestnuts were in high demand. They own and operate Virginia Chestnuts LLC in Nelson County, where their first trees were planted in 2009. Fifteen years later, they’re shipping chestnuts nationwide and inviting visitors to pick their own.

"We didn't know if anybody would drive to where we are,” Kim said.

"And now more than half of our customers are coming from the Northern Virginia area, from Richmond.

We had two different families come from Raleigh, North Carolina, to pick chestnuts.”

Although it’s too late to pick chest-

nuts this year at the Bryants’ farm, you can order online and have them shipped in time for the holidays.

In nearby Rockingham County, Daniel Jefferson and his family have been raising chestnuts since 2014.

Like the Bryants, the Jeffersons began offering a pick-your-own option in 2022 as an experiment at East Rockingham Chestnuts.

"We didn't know if people were going to come and pick chestnuts,” Jefferson said. "The first year we got a pretty good response. And then last year, even though we didn't get as many chestnuts, we got an overwhelming response for pick-yourown.”

This year’s crop has been bountiful, he added. So bountiful that they are now sold out of chestnuts for the season.

Both growers agree that pickyour-own chestnuts have been especially popular with customers from cultural backgrounds where chestnuts are a dietary staple.

"What I like about this is we have learned so much about people that have migrated to this country,” Kim said. "And they want to tell us their stories about what brought them here, then their memories of chestnuts and their home countries. And so that’s been the biggest joy for me. And it was totally not what we thought the business model was going to be—so it’s just been a wonderful surprise!”

Learn more about Virginia-grown chestnuts on an episode of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation’s Real Virginia at bit.ly/realvachestnuts.

Gov.Glenn Youngkin announced the pre-proposal and application dates for the next round of Virginia Food Access Investment Fund (VFAIF) program grants. Administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), the VFAIF program supports local food systems by investing in new or expanding food retailers that address fresh food access issues in the Commonwealth.

The pre-proposal period, from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31, allows interested applicants to submit proposals to ensure mandatory requirements are met and to ask questions. The application period for both programs will begin on Feb. 3, 2025, and end

on Feb. 28, 2025. Grant awards will be announced in the spring 2025.

"Improving food access and building partnerships with community food organizations and private industry is an innovative approach to increasing access to nutritious food and eliminating hunger in urban and rural Virginia,” said Youngkin.

"In addition to increasing market opportunities for our farmers, focused expansion of the VFAIF program helps us to incentivize economic development, support Virginia farmers, and create jobs in the Commonwealth.”

The VFAIF program provides grants from $10,000 up to $50,000, to support business development,

construction, rehabilitation, equipment upgrades, or expansion. Eligible grant recipients include grocery stores, small food retailers, and innovative food retail projects in low-income communities that experience low access to fresh food.

VDACS is encouraging submissions from eligible projects from communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, or other recent natural disasters.

For the upcoming funding round, VDACS is expanding the VFAIF program to include a large-scale retailer category, competing for grant awards of $100,000 up to $250,000.

Large-scale retailer grants are only available for grocery stores, exceed-

ing 15,000 sq. ft., that are located in underserved communities and meet published program guidelines, including a requirement for accepting expenditures of benefits provided under the supplemental nutrition assistance program and participating in a program that matches or supplements these benefits, such as Virginia Fresh Match.

To access additional information on either VFAIF program, please visit www.vdacs.virginia.gov/marketing-food-access-investment-fund. shtml. Program applications are also available on the VFAIF website.

Interested applicants should visit the VFAIF website often for program updates and application workshops.

b The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Nutrient Management Program will offer a two-part agriculture nutrient management training school in January.

The school is for anyone interested in learning about the development of agricultural nutrient management plans or how to become a certified

nutrient management plan writer.

The first session, Jan. 9-10, 2025,is a lecture series by Virginia Tech professors on soil science, soil fertility and crop production. The two-day soils and crop lecture series will be hosted through Microsoft Teams.

The second session, Jan. 14-16,

2025, will cover nutrient management plan writing using a casestudy farm. The three-day plan writing training will be in-person at Brightpoint Community College in Midlothian, Virginia.

Each day will run from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Registration is $150 for each session with a deadline of Dec.

30. Registration is available online at www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-andwater/nmtrain.

Nutrient management continues to be an important factor in a farmer’s decision-making process when considering application of materials to supply nutrients to crops and forages.