THE SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA SUN 9-14-23

Virginia releases SOL test results

The bad news continued for Virginia schools as results from 2022-23 assessments showed significant and persistent learning loss in reading and math for students in third- through eighth-grades.

According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of students in that age group either failed or are at risk of

failing their reading SOL exam and nearly two-thirds of those students failed or are at risk of failing the math exam.

“Grade 3 through 8 Virginia students are still struggling to recover the learning loss from the pandemic and are not performing as well as their pre-pandemic peers,” said Superintendent of Public Instruc-

tion Lisa Coons. “The 2022-2023 SOL data demonstrates just how important school attendance is for students’ academic success. VDOE recommends school divisions allocate this $418 million in learning loss resources to proven programs that will achieve the greatest student impact–approximately 70% for high-dose tutoring,

20% for Virginia Literacy Act implementation, and 10% for chronic absenteeism response.”

Pass rates for every elementary and middle-school grade are behind 2018-19 pass rates, both in reading and in math.

Camera club holds exhibition in Mercer Park opens bike trails

Mountain bikers have a new riding opportunity in Southwest Virginia. Hungry Mother State Park has opened three miles of its new Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System. The remaining two miles are under construction and scheduled to open in the spring of 2025.

The park re-purposed Raider’s Run and Old Shawnee trails for the project. The two trails were used for guided horseback riding tours for several years before becoming hike- and bike-only trails in the 1990s.

The existing trails’ downhill grade and gradual, sweeping curves made them ideal for mountain biking, so crews have been focusing their attention on smoother berms (banked turns) to en-

See PARK, Page 3

The Princeton, West Virginia, Camera Club held its 39th annual Open Amateur, Advanced and Youth Photography Exhibition at Bluefield, West Virginia’s Mercer Mall from Aug. 2-6.

The 2023 competition included 32 photographers; 15 first time, five Youth, 15 Amateur and 12 Advanced entrants from West Virginia and Virginia.

A total of 167 photos were submitted with 22 first-place ribbons, 22 secondplace ribbons, 17 third-place ribbons and 53 sponsor awards presented.

Princeton Camera Club, as an amateur photography club, encourages all that are interested in photography to enter our Annual Competitions. Details of our next competition will be released around March/April 2024.

Princeton Camera Club invites everyone to share their interest and expand their knowledge with us as a club of “photographers”. The club takes photo field trips, has guest speakers and we learn from each other. We also learn from entering other area photo competitions. Princeton Camera Club meets every third Thursday of each month at Associated Photography, 813 Mercer Street, Princeton, West Virginia, at 6 p.m.

The 2023 winners of the 39th Annual Open Amateur, Advanced and Youth Photography Exhibition include:

Bill Skeat in first in the People Division for Where’s Jack. Shannon Hagy’s Born to be Wild finished second and Lori Bishop’s Summer Fun was third.

See CAMERA, Page 3

$16.4 million approved for broadband

U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $16,395,565.20 in federal funding, courtesy of the Middle

Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program, awarded to the Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation (MBC) to

deploy broadband and expand access to high-speed internet throughout Virginia.

The funding will be used to con-

struct approximately 130 miles of new fiber to build eight open-access middle mile fiber segments, the physical high-capacity fiber

optic cables needed to connect internet service providers to larger data centers and local networks,

See BROADBAND, Page 3

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Saturday, Sept. 16

Marion Downtown: Marion’s summer cruise-in continues at the Farmers Market Pavilion from 6 to 9 p.m. Music provided by Jarid Reedy.

Lincoln Theatre:  Drenched in sunkissed natural beauty both inside and out, Nashville native, Deana Carter, didn’t take a seemingly easy route to stardom, but instead chose to defy the conventional expectations of the typical Nashville artist blueprint and make her own mark. And she did, undeniably taking the industry and fans by storm with her wildly successful multi-platinum international debut “Did I Shave My Legs For This?” more two decades ago. Anchored by the dreamy super hit ” Strawberry Wine”, Carter showcased her own blend of country and retro-rock sprinkled with the folksy singer/songwriter qualities that have garnered Deana Carter well-deserved respect and wild acclaim.

New River Trail State Park:  Welcome to Virginia’s longest and longestrunning adventure triathlon, the New River Trail Challenge Triathlon at Foster Falls. Part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series, the triathlon runs from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. First held in 1999 as a small, local event, the Challenge now attracts competitors from all over the Mid-Atlantic. For more information and registration. https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/nrtchallenge#race

September 21-23

Downtown Wytheville: The Millwald will be hosting a brand new fall festival this year, Apple Atcha Fest, featuring artists, authors, live music and the best of Appalachian culture.

September 22-October 22

Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner

Theatre: “Fiddler on the Roof” tells the tale of Tevye, a poor milkman in the little village of Anatevka and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tightknit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof’s universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness.

Saturday, Sept. 23

New River Trail State Park:  Celebrate National Public Lands Day at New River Trail State Park, in the Ivanhoe Car Parking lot. A day of service will be spend identifying and pulling invasive species along the Ivanhoe birding trail from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. From 3 to 7 p.m., get up close with some park mammals with “Skins and Bones,” followed by “Critters in the Creek” and Campfire and S’mores.

Hungry Mother State Park: Celebrate National Public Lands Day at Hungry Mother with a trailgate at the spillway. Various stations on birds, plants, bats, insects and more will be offered as will hikes and hands-on activities.

Saturday, Sept. 30

Lincoln Theatre: Got the best sound in town? Register your band to compete in the Lincoln Theatre’s Battle of the Bands at 5 p.m. Bands must register by July 15. Registration is limited to the first 10 bands. A grand prize of $1,000 is on the line. Tickets are $10

Sept. 22-Oct. 22

Wohlfahrt Haus: The classic “Fiddler on the Roof” is coming to the dinner theatre for the fall. Set in the little village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof’s universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness.

Friday, Oct. 6

Millwald Theatre: Exile on Wytheville’s Main Street. On Sept. 30, 1978, a band that had formed to play small clubs in Kentucky in 1963 rocketed to worldwide fame as their song “Kiss You All Over” headed up the charts, eventually hitting No. 5. In the early 1980’s, Exile began to focus on country music. During their run on the country charts Exile had 10 number one singles including “I Don’t Want To Be A Memory,” “Give Me One More Chance” and “She’s A Miracle.”  The band wrote their own songs, played on all their recordings and also proved to be prolific songwriters composing hits for other artists such as Alabama,

Restless Heart, Engelbert Humperdinck, Huey Lewis, Diamond Rio, Janie Fricke and many more.  During this country phase of their career, Exile received 11 nominations including Vocal Group of The Year and Best Instrumental Performance for the Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards. The 5 original Exile members re-formed in 2008 with J.P. Pennington, Les Taylor, Sonny LeMaire, Marlon Hargis and Steve Goetzman. Now, they’re coming to the Millwald at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $52 to $67.

Saturday, Oct. 7

Lincoln Theatre: Song of the Mountains is back on the Lincoln stage, featuring Rhonda Vincent & the Rage.

Millwald Theatre:  Brit Taylor broke out on her own in 2020, releasing her debut album Real Me, followed by Real Me Deluxe in 2021, and is planning a third effort release, Kentucky Blue. Now she’ll be gracing the Millwald stage.

Saturday, Oct. 21

Marion Downtown: Marion’s summer cruise-in wraps up at the Farmers Market Pavilion from 6 to 9 p.m. Music provided by HB Beverly.

Wytheville Meeting Center – Mixed martial arts action returns to Wytheville as titans of the Cage 34 gets underway. Doors open at 3 p.m. with fighting starting at 4 p.m. No. 34 features the first ever female main event as Gracie Grecco of Ruffin, North Carolina, faces Hannah Ross of Staunton for a title.

Lincoln Theatre:  Grammy and Dove award-winning artist Guy Penrod is set to perform live at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets range from $28 to $38 for the can’t miss show.

Friday, Oct. 27

Lincoln Theatre:  Celebrate the 50th anniversary with $5 admission to the 1973 horror classic “The Exorcist.” The show starts at 7 p.m. When a 12-yearold girl is possessed by a mysterious entity, her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her.

Friday, Nov. 3

Lincoln Theatre: Tayla Lynn and Tre Twitty, grandchildren of Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty, are delivering their iconic grandparents’ super hits at The Lincoln Theatre  at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets are $100. Premium seating is $52, orchestra is $43 and balcony is $37. Tayla Lynn and Tre Twitty have country music

in their blood. The grandchildren of famed duo Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty, the two have taken to the road to honor their grandparents in an intimate evening of music and storytelling as only they can tell.

November 3-

December 23

Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre:  A Wohlfahrt Haus Christmas Carol closes out the 2023 season for the Wytheville theater. Charles Dicken’s beloved characters come to life with a Wohlfahrt Haus twist in “A Wohlfahrt Haus Christmas Carol.” Scrooge, a wealthy miser goes on a journey Christmas Eve night with four ghosts to examine how his choices and actions in the past and present will affect his future as well as the true meaning of Christmas.

Friday, Nov. 10

Lincoln Theatre:  Celebrate the 50th anniversary with $5 admission to the 1973 classic “Paper Moon.” The show begins at 7 p.m. A traveling Bible salesman is tasked with taking an orphaned girl to her family.

The two have more in common than they first realize and after becoming a quick pair of con artists the orphan is loath to give the life up.

Friday, Nov. 17

Lincoln Theatre: Get ready to buzz with laughter along with legendary comedian Killer Beaz at 7:30 p.m. Premium seats are $55, orchestra and balcony tickets are $38.  Killer Beaz has his own unique brand of “Hard Hitting” – “Laugh out Loud” – “Laugh A Lot” – “HI-PROOF” – “High Energy” – “Everyman” style humor that appeals to any audience. When asked, Beaz says about his shows, “I love the art of stand-up comedy! Having been given the opportunity to make people laugh and smile for all these years is truly a blessing!” With many thousands of radio, television, and stage appearances, Beaz has been entertaining audiences for over three decades.

Saturday, Nov. 18

Millwald Theatre:  The Darkside Experience brings a tribute to the music of Pink Floyd to the Millwald Theatre at 8 p.m.  The Darkside was born out of a mutual love and respect for the music of Pink Floyd.

Lincoln Theatre: Good Shot Judy is bringing swing and swagger to the Lincoln stage at 7 p.m. Grounded in the swinging cadence of the big band era, Good

Shot Judy boldly ventures wherever whimsy leads them. The big amp jazz band brings melodic muscle to every show, fueled by revelers young and old who eagerly follow them on an exhilarating ride through this golden age of music. Premium seats are $25 with orchestra and balcony $20 and students and senior tickets $15.

Sunday, Dec. 3

Lincoln Theatre: The Church Sisters return to the Lincoln at 3 p.m. to share their favorite Christmas tunes. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Marion, adult tickets are $22 and senior and student admission is $17.

Saturday, Dec. 9

Lincoln Theatre:  The Isaacs are bringing their Christmas show to the Lincoln stage at 7 p.m. Premium seating is $58. Orchestra tickets are $47 and balcony $30. Children tickets are $30 to $40. Multifaceted award-winning group The Isaacs have spent five decades creating the undeniable family harmonies and distinct sound that have made them a favorite among audiences everywhere. After touring in 2023 with Reba McEntire, The Isaacs are excited to return to The Lincoln Theatre to perform their Christmas show.

Sunday, Dec. 10

Lincoln Theatre:  Don’t be Bah-humbugging. John Hardy is bringing is oneman version of a Christmas Carol to the Lincoln at 3 p.m. Hardy plays more than 40 roles in the show. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. From the first moment of the play until the last, Hardy never leaves the stage and he never changes costume. How then, does he manage to portray over forty characters? “Well, that’s the reason it is a difficult play to act. The characters are defined by variations in accents and speech patterns as well as physical traits. Most of the time, when acting in a play or a film, an actor has the job of creating one character, and that is difficult enough, but forty? It’s a big job, to say the least. That challenge is also the reason this production is a unique event. Even if an audience member has seen a previous production of A Christmas Carol, they have not seen it done like this.”

This project was supported [in part] by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

Wythe holding tire collection

Wythe County tire collection day is Saturday, Sept. 30, at 261 Kent’s Lane, Wytheville. Call for an ap-

pointment at 276-223-6119 or e-mail lsayers@wytheco. org.

making an appointment have the following information read: Type of tire (tractor, commercial,

test scores

The pass rates are even more alarming when considering the large number of students who are in the “low proficient” level and would have likely failed the SOLs under the 2018-2019 cut scores. Proficiency cut scores were lowered between the 2018-2019 and 2020-2021 test administration. These lowered cut scores enabled students to pass that would not have otherwise received a passing score. Students who fall into this band are considered “low proficient.”

Bland County students fared better in reading than they did in the previous year with 76 percent passing. The 2021-22 school year saw a 74 percent pass rate. However, the Bland reading scores are still below the 2020-21 year, where there was an 80 percent pass rate.

In writing, Bland’s scores continued to drop, falling from 75 percent pass rate

in 2020-21 to 69 percent in 2021-22 to 62 percent in 2022-23.

In history, Bland students improved, going from a 73 percent pass rate to a 77 percent rate. Science scores were steady at a 75 percent rate in all years.

Carroll County students’ reading scores improved over the 2020-21 year, going from a 70 percent pass rate to a 76 percent pass rate; however, the scores fell from the prior year by 2 percentage points. In writing, scores dropped over the past year from a 66 percent to 65 percent pass rate, still much better than the 58 percent rate shown in the 2020-21 school year. History scores in Carroll followed the same pattern, dropping by 5 percentage points from the prior year to a 64 percent pass rate but still 6 percentage points above the numbers published in 2020-21.

Math, too, showed increases, going to a 76 percent pass rate in the latest,

just released numbers, higher than the 74 percent rate in the prior year and the 60 percent pass rate from 2020-21.

Students at Gladesboro Elementary school had a 100 percent pass rate in history for the second consecutive year.

Galax appears to have bucked the statewide trend, showing steady improvement. In reading, pass rates in Galax improved to 72 percent, up 4 percentage points from 2020-21. Writing scores were up to 62 percent, an 8 percentage point gain from the prior year. In science, pass rates in 202021 were 48 percent. The results from 2022-23 showed a 66 percent pass rate. Math also had solid gains, going from a 54 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 75 percent pass rate in 2022-23.

Grayson, too, showed growth and stronger scores in every subject area. In reading, Grayson students went from a 76 percent pass rate in reading in 2020-21 to

an 80 percent rate in 202223. Writing scores improved from the year prior to 202223 by 2 percentage points to 67 percent. History showed huge gains, going from a 61 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to 74 percent in the latest exams. In math, Grayson County’s pass rate was at 77 percent, besting the 72 percent from 2021-22 and the 68 percent in 2020-21.

Scores improved across the board in Smyth County, too. In reading, Smyth went from a 63 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 76 percent rate in 2022-23. In writing, Smyth showed a 65 percent pass rate in the most recent exams, a 13 percentage point increase in one year. In math, results were even more dramatic, going from a 46 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 71 percent pass rate in 2022-23. In science, Smyth students improved from a 54 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 71 percent pass rate in the 2022-23 test.

In reading, Washington County schools saw gen-

eral increase in pass rates, going from 78 percent to 83 percent to 84 percent. While writing scores improved from a 63 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to 67 percent in 2022-23, they fell by 2 percentage points from 202122.

History scores improved from a 65 percent pass rate to an 80 percent pass rate, and math jumped from a 68 percent pass rate to an 86 percent pass rate. In science, Washington County school improved from a 65 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 78 percent pass rate in 2022-23.

Wythe County, like several others, saw scores improve from 2020-21 assessments but fall from the previous year, in some areas. In reading, Wythe County had a 79 percent pass rate, down from the 81 percent rate from 2021-22 but up from the 77 percent rate in 2020-21.

Writing scores dropped year over year, falling from a 66 percent pass rate in

2021-22 to a 58 percent pass rate in 2022-23. History scores improved from a 64 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to a 78 percent pass rate in the latest exams. Math also saw steady growth, going from a 67 percent pass rate in 2020-21 to 80 percent in 2021-22 to 82 percent in 2022-23. Science scores in 2022-23 were better than the 2020-21 scores by 4 percentage points at a 75 percent rate, but worse than the 82 percent pass rate posted the previous year.

At Rural Retreat High School, students had a 100 percent pass rate in the math SOL.

VDOE will release 20232024 school accreditation ratings later this month. Accreditation ratings include multiple indicators of school quality and student achievement, including growth in reading and mathematics and high school graduation rates.

Camera: Club hold exhibition at Mercer Mall

From Page 1

The best of show black and white was An American Castle by David Johnson Skeat was first, too, in places with Mabry Reflection. Chris Hersman took second with Yellowstone, and Hagy finished third with Heavenly Reflections. Steve Porterfield’s The Serenade was best first time entry.

In the Things category, Skeat’s Kaleidoscope took first and his Friends finished second. Red Canoes on Lake by Donna Justus was third.

In Animal/Insects, Butterfly Affect by Amy Holdren-Bailey finished first,

followed by Made For Each Other by Sandy Hager. Justus’ Lady Bug in the Rain took third.

In the Amateur division, John Lowe took first and second in People with Here It Comes and Three You’re Out. Best Color/Sepia was David Johnson’s Shrimp Boats Fleet.

In Places, Napoleon the Grate by Megan Armstrong finished first. Sandy Hager’s Shrimp Boats of Darien took second and Brunswick, GA by Syreda Jessee was third.

Best in black and white was It’s a Deusy by Ruth Sturgill.

In Things, Textures of

Nature by Hager finished first. Armstrong’s Patching Princeton was second and Justus’ Old Truck earned third.

Phone/Tablet first place was Edinburgh Castle by Chris Harsman. Hersman took second with Kilmuir, Syke and third with Portee. Skeet finished first in Panoramic with For Sale.

Amber Koppler’s After the Storm was second.

In Advanced Color, Debbie Maxfield won with RIP.

Lauri Bowling finished second with A Little Shore Fishing. Roger Shrewsbury took third with Styling and Profiling.

In Places, From Here to

There by Teresa Johnson won first. D.C. Columns by Steve Jessee was second. Moonlight Falls from Steve Porterfield took third.

Bowling won first in Things with her Grave Digger. Jessee was second with Antique Dryer and Maxfield’s Enter Into the Past finished third.

In Animal/Insects, Porterfield’s The Serenade won first. William Brezinski’s Monarchs was second and Johnson was third with Bluebird and Berries.

In Advanced Black and White People, Bowling took first with Ready to Make a Wish. Johnson finished second with Journey to the

Summit. Shrewsbury’s Elegance was third.

David Johnson was first in Places with An American Castle. Bowling finished second with Weight Limit 12 Tons and Jessee’s From Another World was third.

Jessee was first in Things with Let It Rain. Ruth Sturgill’s It’s a Deusy! Finished second and Shrewbury’s Ship – Shape took third.

Jeff Dreyer’s Be In Boom finished first in Animal/Insects and Ed Oxley’s Be On A Bloom was second.

In Advanced Color/Sepia Sturgill’s Rosy Maple Moth was first in Digital Composite.

David Johnson was first

in Panoramic with Camp Creek. William Brezinski took second with Wormsloe Plantation. Jeff Dreyer’s Bird’s Paradise was third. Bowling’s Reaching for the Sun finished first in Phone/Tablet.

In Youth Grades 1-8, Arlynn Dreyer’s Big Gup was first. Mom, also by Arlynn Dreyer, was second. The Papaw Dance by Nova Dreyer was third.

In Youth Grades 9-12, Naomi Smith’s Early Blooms took first. Her Childhood Dreams was second and her An Ants Life finished third.

Broadband: Funding to help internet service

From Page 1

which will support service for residential and business customers and provide critical broadband connectivity to 32 industrial and business park sites in 12 Virginia localities across Central and Southside Virginia.

“Access to high-quality, high-speed internet is crucial in the 21st century,” said the senators. “We are proud to have played a key role in creating and passing legislation that continues to deliver substantial funding to Virginia in order to achieve universal broadband coverage across the Commonwealth.”

“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored to be a part of this transformative project, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with

our electric cooperatives, ISPs, and other telecom providers,” said Tad Deriso, President and CEO of MBC. “The substantial infrastructure investment in middle mile fiber by the NTIA and GO Virginia represents a remarkable triumph for rural Virginia, as it paves the way for significant strides in bridging the digital divide and attracting more economic development investments to the region. MBC has a proven track record of executing fiber infrastructure projects on time and within budget, and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with our funding partners, our telecom provider customers, and the communities involved to make this project a resounding success.”

Details on the eight middle mile fiber segments are as follows:

· The South Hill to Kenbridge segment will improve the capacity of the fiber route that supports the marketability and feasibility of the Kenbridge Commerce Center site in Lunenburg County as well as residential and business customers along the route.

· The Blackstone to McKenney segment will support additional broadband capabilities at Fort Barfoot, a Virginia Army National Guard installation near Blackstone, VA for future rapidly mobilized national security operations and the expanding federal and private contractor workforce.

· The Dinwiddie to Prince George segment will enable

fiber connectivity for industrial, business, education, and biotech/pharmaceutical clusters in Dinwiddie County, Prince George County, and the City of Petersburg.

· The MAMaC in Greensville County segment supports economic development in Greensville County by providing diverse fiber to enhance the marketability of the 1,600 acre MaMaC Megasite in Greensville County.

· The Heartland Innovative Technology (HIT) Park in Prince Edward County segment will provide new diverse fiber to the recently established Heartland Innovative Technology Park.

· The Sussex Mega Site in Sussex County segment will create middle mile fiber di-

versity for the Sussex County Mega Site, enhancing the site’s marketability for advanced manufacturing.

· The Heartland Innovative Technology (HIT) Park to Cumberland segment will provide a diverse fiber route from HIT park to the north, to tie into other fiber backbone routes that extend to Ashburn, Culpeper and Charlottesville.

· The Shannon Hill Regional Business Park in Louisa County segment will provide diverse fiber to the 700-acre Shannon Hill Regional Business Park for the park’s targeted industries of manufacturing, data centers, biotechnology, and logistics and distribution.

The Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program provides fund-

ing to expand and extend middle mile infrastructure to reduce the cost of connecting areas that are unserved or underserved with current broadband infrastructure. The program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law (BIL).

Sens. Warner and Kaine have long fought to expand access to broadband in Virginia. Last month, Sen. Warner visited Big Stone Gap to celebrate $25 million in funding for the deployment of broadband in Southwest Virginia. These announcements come in addition to over $1.4 billion in previously announced funding for the deployment of broadband throughout the Commonwealth as a result of the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Park: Hungry Mother works on trail system

From Page 1 hance flow and creating new downhill routes and an easy-tomoderate climb to the top of the ridge. They’ve also reconstructed the trails using water control features and other engineering tech-

niques to make them sustainable over time.

What makes the Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System different from the roughly 15 miles of other mountain bike-friendly trails at the park is its technical

features, such as jumps and rock gardens. The one-way trail system has one climbing trail, roughly 0.75 miles, that takes riders to the top of the ridge and will have five downhill trails that diverge, offering multiple options in difficulty,

skill rating and length.

“We are excited to add the Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System to our diverse list of recreational opportunities,” said Park Manager Kevin McDonald. “We hope mountain bikers of all skill

levels will enjoy this fun, challenging way to explore Hungry Mother State Park.”

Construction of the Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System is being led by the Virginia State Parks district resource team.

Kathy Ann Boardwine

Kathy Ann Boardwine, 68, died Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, at Greystone Health Care in Blountville, Tennessee.

Boardwine was born in Saltville to the late James and India Bentley and was preceded in death by her husband, JD Boardwine; two sisters Betty June White, Patsy L. Hunt; three brothers Charles F. Coe, Eugene Bentley, Danny Lee Bentley.

Boardwine is survived by her stepson, Larry D. Boardwine of Glade Spring; one sister, Peggy Carol Crawford of Lexington, North Carolina; and two brothers, Rodney A. Bentley of Stanley, North Carolina and John W. Bentley of Lexington.

Burial was in Westwood Memorial Gardens.

Flowers will be appreciated, or memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice in memory of Kathy. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www. bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Chapel of Chilhowie is serving the family of Kathy Boardwine.

Chong “Ruby” Brooks

Chong “Ruby” Brooks, 78, died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, after a long battle with dementia.

Brooks was born in Korea to the late Kawn and Kim Owsege. She retired after 20 years from the Rural Retreat Garment Factory. Brooks could often be found walking around the track at the Wellness Center. She loved spending time there and talking with all her friends. She never seemed to meet a stranger and was especially a proud supporter of the local high school sports team.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, David E. Brooks; brother-in-law Glen Brooks and wife, Joyce, of Konnarock; sisters-inlaw Carolynn Brooks and Kay Brooks, both of Sugar Grove; and several other loving nieces, nephews and friends.

Burial was at Comers Creek Church Cemetery in Troutdale. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home of Marion is serving the Brooks Family.

Ralph Dewayne “Copey” Copenhaver

Ralph Dewayne “Copey” Copenhaver, 76, died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023. A loving father and dedicated loving husband of 54 years, his wife, children, grandchildren, and family were the most important things to him on this earth.

Copey retired from the Virginia Department of

Transportation as a Superintendent of the Speedwell area headquarters where he valued many wonderful friendships. He was a member of Crockett Tabernacle and enjoyed garden tractor pulling, hunting, fishing, and being outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Arnold Copenhaver; mother Luella Mae Stuart Copenhaver; brother, Larry Copenhaver; paternal grandparents, Joseph Maiden and Onice Bennington Copenhaver; and maternal grandparents, George Martin and Jennie King Stuart.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria Ann Cregger Copenhaver; children Dianna “Shelly” Copenhaver Stepp and Vernon Stepp, Tony Wayne Copenhaver, Kevin Floyd Copenhaver and Sherry Ward, Leslie Ann Copenhaver Bridgers and Johnathan Bridgers; grandchildren Jeremy Harden Stepp, Zachary Ryan Stepp and Taylor Stepp. Leah Nicole Stepp Sandoz and Duncan Sandoz, Joshua Tyler Copenhaver; stepgrandchildren, Haley Michelle Eversole, Wyatt Eversole; step-great-grandchild, Brax Wilson Eversole; and brothers Danny and Janet Copenhaver, Benny and Brenda Copenhaver, Hubert Copenhaver, and sister-in-law Martha Copenhaver.

To honor Copey’s wishes, there will be no service. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www. grubbfuneralhome.com

John “Johnny” Franklin Goins

John “Johnny” Franklin Goins died Sept. 11, 2023, at home.

He was born Dec. 8, 1950, in Bland to Victor and Glada Goins. He was the seventh out of nine brothers and sisters. He was known to be adventurous during his younger years - just ask his siblings. Goins never truly “grew up,” and could always be expected to crack a joke, no matter the circumstance. We expected nothing less.

He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was married to Kim for 30 years on July 17 of this year. He was father to Ashley (Matt), Ariel (Kody) and Jonathan. He held the title of World’s Best Papa/PopPop to Jocelyn, Calan, and Jemma. Goins was steadfast in his faith, attending the same church for his entire life.

Goins graduated from Bland High School in 1969 and Wytheville Community College. After graduating he worked at AMSCO Textron Factory in Wytheville in customer service for more than 35 years. In 2008, he was elected and served the county as Treasurer for almost 16 years, retiring in August 2023.

He was a pillar of the community and always willing to lend a hand. Goins was known for volunteering as coach for many Little League teams and DJing many dances and proms. He kept the clock at football and basketball games for more than 50 years. He was also a volunteer for many organizations throughout the county. He was also the caretaker of the Bland Cemetery for numerous years.

Goins collected wood from 1972 on and knew exactly where it was around his property. He knew that “one day” that lumber would be needed. Any kind of hardware you needed… he had it – he just had to find it first. His 1972 Ford Mustang was his pride and joy, until his grandkids came along, and then everyone else was chopped liver. He was a lover of the Beatles and the “oldies,” which he passed on to his granddaughter Jocelyn. His love of racing was passed on to his grandson Calan, who loves to work on race cars. Goins loved the beach and being outside. It wouldn’t be unusual to drive by and see him outside sharing his love for the outdoors with Jemma. He loved to mow and took great care to make sure his yard was always looking the best.

Goins made many friends in this life – he was just the kind of person who drew people in. He never lost his childlike spirit and love for life. Anyone who knew him knew that he was the most loving husband, father, and grandfather a family could ask for, as well as the friend you could always count on. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank the hospice nurses who took such great care of him, as well as his special friends Timmy Dillow and Kathy Harner who visited often up until the very end.

A Memorial Service will be held at Bland Funeral Chapel in Bland on Friday, Sept. 15, with the visitation from 4 to 7 p.m., with the service following at 7 p.m. There will be a private inurnment service held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Bland Lutheran-Presbyterian Fellowship Hall. Donations can be sent to 40 Main Street Bland, VA 24315. Bland Funeral Chapel is serving the Goins family.

Debra Gillespie Lowe

Debra Gillespie Lowe, 72, died Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, at home.

Lowe was born in Welch, West Virginia, to the late John Carson Gillespie and Virginia Kathleen Gillespie and was preceded in death by her two brothers, John Carson Gillespie Jr. and Robert Dean Gillespie;

brother-in-law, James R. Jimmy Seymour; and sisterin-law, Mary Gillespie.

She retired from Smyth County Department of Social Services as a social worker after 36 years of service.

Survivors include her two daughters, Vikki Speer and husband, Mike, of Marion and Stephanie Hester and husband, Adam, of Marion; one son, Hunter Fuller and wife, Alishia, of Marion; sister, Becky Seymour of Rich Valley; four grandchildren, Michael Speer, Kayla and Derek Blevins, Diamond and Zach Webb and Dray and Taylor Speer; nine great-grandchildren, Bryleigh Speer, Emma Widener, Carson Fuller, Thomas Speer, Nova Webb, Hardin Speer, one on the way, Fenix Webb, Lexi Blevins, Sophie Blevins, and her favorite child and companion, Max; and several nieces and nephews.

Burial was in Ridgedale Cemetery in Rich Valley. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com.

Bradley’s Funeral Home is serving the Debra’s family.

Nancy L. Martin

Nancy L. Martin, 79, died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, at Pulaski Health and Rehab Center in Pulaski.

Martin was born in Sugar Grove to the late Elbert and Kathleen Caldwell and was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Lee Martin; son Frankie Martin; several brothers and sisters.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker.

Survivors include her children, Kathy Martin, Donna Peters, Ronnie Martin and Dean Martin; brothers, Leonard and Harold; sisters, Alice and Beverly; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday Sept. 18, at Rose Lawn Cemetery. The family

will receive friends on Monday from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com.

Bradley’s Funeral Home is serving the Martin family.

James Stanley “Jimmy” Overbay

James Stanley “Jimmy” Overbay, 64, died Monday, Sept. 11, 2023 at Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, Tennessee.

Overbay was born in Neuburucke, Germany to the late James S. Overbay and Hazel Poston Overbay, and was preceded in death by his sisters, Judie Goodman and husband Denny Ray Goodman, Barbara Overbay Stamper; grandparents, James Floyd Arthur and Grace Powell Overbay and Floyd Lydia Poston and numerous aunts and uncles.

Overbaywas an avid hiker until his health failed. He loved to watch Virginia Tech football and the Atlanta Braves baseball. He also retired from General Dynamics.

Survivors include, his wife, Glenna Watkins Overbay; children, Audria Lynn Chandler, Jama Marie Caldwell, Dr. Andrea Nicholle Overbay, Tonya Jo Dancy and Matthew Neese, Joseph Blaine Dancy and Kelly; grandchildren, Cody Bennett, Collin Pennington, Crystal Harris, Caleb Bennett, Macy Osborne, Reid Osborne, Caleb Osborne, Katelyn Dancy, Kylee Dancy, Isaiah Dancy; great grand daughter, Addlyn Bennett; brother, Floyd ‘Artie” Overbay; brother in-law, Charles “Buster” Stamper; nephew, James Goodman and wife Mary; great niece, Kim Goodman; great nephew, Jacob Goodman and wife Destiny; and best friend, Barry Brooks.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, at Bradley’s Funeral Home in Marion with the Rev. Paul Shallenburg officiating. Interment will follow in West Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m.

at the funeral home. Flowers will be appreciated or memorial donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www. bradleysfh.com. Bradley’s Funeral Home is serving the family of James “Jimmy” Overbay.

Joseph Blaine Porter Sr.

Joseph Blaine Porter Sr., 92, of Max Meadows died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023. He was Born May 11, 1931, in Wythe County, the son of the late Andrew Orville and Leona Cress Porter. He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters; five sons-inlaw; and a great-grandchild. Porter attended the Liberty Hill Pentecostal Holiness Church; he was an avid fox hunter and loved to play the banjo.

He is survived by his wife of more than 72 years, Irene Porter; four daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth Frazier, Wanda Dunford Lewis, Edna and Robert Frazier and Evelyn and Clint Pratt; three sons and daughtersin-law, William “Bill” Porter, Joseph B. “JB” and Brenda Porter and John and B.J. Porter; a sister, Phebe Keeton; special friends, Barbara Porter and Vickie Burnett; 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren, two step grandchildren, six step-great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many extended family and friends.

Online condolences can be made to the family at www.highlandfuneralservice.com

The Barnett Funeral Home in Wytheville VA serving the Porter family.

Debbie Joan Richardson

Debbie Joan Richardson,

See OBITUARIES, Page 5

Obituaries

63, of Max Meadows died Monday, Sept. 4, 2023.

Born Dec. 30, 1959, in Wytheville, she was the daughter of the late Claude and Dorothy Hilton Dowdy. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Eunice Dillow. She enjoyed scrapbooking and spending time with her family. She loved cats.

Survivors include her husband, Kenneth Richardson of Max Meadows; first husband, Thomas Felts; daughter, Melissa Felts of Pulaski; two grandchildren, Miranda Davis and Sierra Davis; stepsons, Kenneth Richardson Jr. (Regina) and Joey Richardson (Jamie); stepdaughters, Chasity Richardson and Nicole Richardson and fiancé Murray Lunn; 10 brothers

and sisters, Carl Dowdy (Carolyn), Jake Dowdy (Linda), Peggy Summers, Bertha Dillow, Faye White, Donald Dowdy (Greta), Joyce Dowdy, Patty Dowdy and Charles Dowdy; and several extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Barnett Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Barnett Funeral Home is serving the Richardson family.

Scott Allen Sanders

Scott Allen Sanders, 61, of Narrows died Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. Arrangements are pending and will be announced later by Bland Funeral Chapel, Bland.

Michael Shane Sheffield

Michael Shane Sheffield, 55, died Sept. 10, 2023, at his home in Marion. Sheffield was born in Smyth County on Aug. 5, 1968. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Dennis Sheffield Jr. and Peggy Ann Russell Sheffield. Sheffield worked for decades in the machining industry. Employed by Titan Wheels for 29 years working as a Boring Mill Operator, then as a Boring Mill Supervisor and for the last several years as a Production Manager. He enjoyed working with his hands and constructing items out of metal and wood, the more the power tools the better. He had several passions, being outdoors and taking in all of nature, his loyal canine

companions, micro-farming, and firearms. Everyone knew he loved his HarleyDavidson and the joy it would bring him riding it. And if you didn’t know that Sheffield had a love for this country, and for the men and women that serve(d) it, then you didn’t know him very well.

Sheffield would rather be a doer that a watcher. He would be there to give a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He had a giving nature and a big heart to prove it.

Survivors include his wife, Pam Tuggle of Marion; sons Aaron Nettles and wife, Courtney, of Glade Spring and Michael Nettles and wife, Falsiha, of Meadowview; stepsons Michael Cregger and Hunter Cregger, both of Marion; grandchildren Jackson Nettles, Kennedy Nettles, Fallyn

Nettles, Naythane Sepulveda, Lyla Nettles, Brantley Nettles, Gunnar Nettles and Joseph Cregger; sister Adeline Sheffield-Firestone and husband, Mark, of Marion; special niece and nephew Camilla Firestone and Lincoln Firestone, both of Marion; uncles Johnny Russell of Chilhowie and Roger Warf of Chilhowie; several cousins, especially April Warf of Chilhowie; and his father and mother-in-law, James andMinnie “Mama

Tug” Tuggle of Marion and Susie “Mama Sue” Hutton of Roanoke.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, their affiliates, and staff for their care and support during Mike’s recovery there after the fire at his home in Chilhowie.

The family would also like to recognize the employees

of Titan Wheels in Saltville for their continued love and support for Mike over these past several months.

Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Bradley’s Funeral Home Chapel in Marion with the Rev. Chad Owens officiating. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at 988lifeline.org or mail a check to Vibrant Emotional Health ATTN: Development, 50 Broadway Floor 19, New York, NY 10004. You could also donate to one of Mike’s favorite organizations that he donated to every year, Samaritian’s Purse at samaritanspurse.org. The option is yours if you so desire. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com.

Racing and wrecking action at the Raceway

CANDACE FRYE

Wythe Raceway had a packed house on Sunday, Sept. 4, for the Labor Day action.

The American All-Star Series Pro Late Model series $10,000 prize had everyone on their toes! Even the 50/50 jackpot to help support the local high school volleyball team grew to almost $4,000! The winning ticket belonged to a fan who was celebrating his birthday at Wythe Raceway!

With the smell of wonderful food in the air and Terry Davis’ vintage race car on display, everyone was enjoying their Labor Day weekend.

The back straightaway proved to be a growling point for the Randy’s Tire Shop Pro Mini class race, when Derek Farris and Kevin Atwell collided to send Atwell launching over the guard rail and into the track light pole. Atwell was taken to the hospital to be checked out.

In the Aschenbach Super Street

race, in nearly the same place, Keith Griffitts and Jerry Dillow ended up in a T-bone crash. No injuries were sustained in this wreck, but many thanks go out to Cline’s Towing service and all our first responder crews and staff. There were several other wrecks and spin outs through out the night. With patience thinning and adrenaline pumping the response times to all were even better than usual. Everyone was on top of their game! However, the night belonged to Jeremy Steele of York, South Carolina, as he took home the American All-Star Series $10,000 purse. When interviewed, Steele stated that he was surprised by the results of the race, thanked sponsors and congratulated the other winning drivers, Jesse Lowe of Crossville, Tennessee, who took second and Matt Long of Concord, North Carolina, who took home third. Even though the red flags caused the race to go into the wee hours of the morning a good time was had by all.

Grayson County overwhelms Indians

Grayson County came to Rural Retreat on Saturday up by seven points with less than a minute on the clock before the half.

The Blue Devils left town with a 24-14 victory behind the legs of Aaron Peterson.

Quarterback Austin Dowell had scored for Grayson on Friday night, taking a four-yard plunge to the house.

Rural Retreat had marched down the field

and was two yards out when lightning halted the game. On Saturday, Hunter Vaught pushed the drive into the end zone and gave the Indians a tie.

In the third, Gerardo Reyes booted a 34-yard field goal to give Grayson a three-point cushion. Dowell added to that early in the fourth with a two-yard TD.

The Indians kept things close was Caleb Roberts tossed a 22-yard touch-

down pass to Tucker Fontaine, but Peterson sealed the win for the Blue Devils with a 66-yard touchdown run late in the fourth. Peterson wound up grinding up 167 yards on the ground, as Grayson held a huge edge –255 to 61 – in rushing yards. In the air, Rural Retreat had 83 yards on four completions while Grayson had 90 on 10.

Hurricanes blow through Lebanon

Marion improved to 2-1, taking out a Southwest District rival on Friday night.

The Hurricanes stung Lebanon

with a 40-20 loss. Ethan Campbell, J.B. Carroll, Jalen Miller, Reid Osborne and Brody Whitt all managed to find

the end zone in the win. Northwood, on the other end of Smyth County, fell to 0-3, dropping a 22-16 showing against

Eastern Montgomery.

Elsewhere in the region, Grayson County was leading Rural Retreat 7-0 just before the half when

lightning suspended the game. That game is scheduled to be finished today at noon.

Freshman leads GW runners at Knights Crossing

George Wythe freshman Emma Faulkner led local runners at the Knights Crossing cross country meet in Salem.

In the girls Red division, Faulkner finished in 67th, posting a time of 21:34.0.

Faulkner’s Maroon teammate

Carrie Sage Dalton finished in 137th with a time of 23:12.1. Alana Malavolti, a fellow freshman, took 188th, stopping the clock at 24:28.8. Sophomore Sophia McCroskey finished in 202nd place with a time of 24:48.7. Maggie Simons’ time of 29:59.1 earned her

337th, and Willow Delp finished in 339th with a time of 30:09.9.

Marion’s Ruby Hoerter took 119th for the Hurricanes, crossing the finish line at 22:53.1. Ju-

nior Alexa Blevins finished in 33:01.4, claiming 356th. Emily Hash finished in 360th with a time of 35:06.4, and Gracie Widener’s 35:10.4 earned her 362. Rural Retreat senior Annabelle

Fiscus finished in 266th, crossing the finish line at 26:43.6. Olivia Bailey clocked in at 27:15.8 to take 287th, and Olivia Crigger’s 27:39.1 was good for 303rd. Elaina Terry

clocked in at 29:53.0 to claim 336th, and Lydia Brewer finished in 359th with a time of 34:37.6.

In the girls Black division, Chilhowie’s Tess Somervell finshed in 37th place with a time of 22:59.70. Kendyl Gross clocked in at 27:20.10 to claim 113th and Madison Gwinn finished 161st with a time of 32:53.60.

In the boys Red division, Marion’s Alex Armbrister led the local contingent with a 219th place finish, clocking in at 19:31.6. Wyatt Hall finished in 358th, posting a time of 21:46.7, and Collin Creg-

gar’s 26:08.1 finish earned him 434th. Josh Marousek clocked in at 28:34.1, earning 445th. Jonathan Barbrow finished in 449th with a time of 29:34.8. Camden Wilcox finished in 30:10.0, earning 453rd.

Conor Martin, a sophomore at George Wythe, finished in 256th, posting a time of 19:58.3. Freshman Brandon Pannell clocked in at 20:42.7, taking 309th, while senior Oscar Montgomery finished in 21:12.0, good for 328th. Eli Tomiak crossed the line at 21:41.1, earning 350th. Caden Horton’s

time of 24:22.6 was good for 415th. In 451st, Dylan Mann clocked in in at 29:47.1.

Rural Retreat’s Owen Chatterton finished in 418th with a time of 24:37.6, and Micah Hamman took 442nd with a 27:47.3

In the boys Black Division, Lucas Hubble of Chilhowie finished in 41st with an 18:42.00 time. Mason Lee’s 19:03.00 was good for 57th, and J.T. Moore earned 170th with a time of 21:58.50. Mason Adams clocked in at 24:42.70, taking 219th, and Nate Thomas secured 237th with a time of 27:04.80.

Marion, Rural Retreat victorious in volleyball

Rural Retreat swept their county rivals in volleyball on Sept. 5, thanks to Talyn Moore serving

up back-to-back aces. The Indian varsity team beat the Pioneers 3-1, following the JV’s 2-1 perfor-

mance. eanwhile in Marion, coach Amanda Hanshew notched her 300th career win with a 3-1 win

over Lebanon. Ella Moss guided the Hurricanes with 12 digs, nine kills and a pair of aces as Marion

claimed a 25-16, 20-25, 25-17, 2517 victory. The win pushed Marion to 5-1 on the season.

Green Wave ends Warriors’ winning streak

The Green Wave brought an end to the Warriors’ perfect start, sticking Chilhowie with a 34-15 loss in a game that was called early due to lightning.

Things turned bad for the Warriors early when Elijah Knoezti of Narrows toted

an interception 70 yards for the game’s first score.

Narrows increased the lead to 14-0 with a two-yard scoring run from cooper Helvey and then, still in the second quarter, Matt McGlothlin grabbed an eightyard pass from Hunter Ow-

ens to make it 21-0. Chilhowie managed to get on the board before the half, as Asher Chapman tossed a 31-yard scoring pass to Ezra Taylor.

After the break, Chapman again tossed for a

touchdown, this time finding Noah Hill at the end of an 11-yard pass, getting the Warriors within striking distance.

But Narrows had other plans, with Levi Smith hauling in a 19-yard pass for the

score in the third quarter. Helvey capped things off in the fourth, scoring on a 19yard run.

In terms of offense, the teams were remarkably close. Chilhowie rushed for 103 yards, one less than

Narrows. Chapman completed 19 of 26 passes for 177 yards while Narrows had 152 yards in the air. However, Chapman tossed the first fateful interception. The Warriors also lost the ball on a fumble.

G-Men shut out homestanding George Wythe

Graham stymied George Wythe on the ground and controlled the air, hanging a 37-0 loss on the Maroons in their packed home-opener.

Though both teams were close in rushing yard – the G-Men at 145 on 24 carries and GW 112 yards on 28 carries – Graham dominated the passing game, putting up 228 yards on 10 completions to George Wythe’s 26 yards on four completions. The Maroons also suffered one interception and fumbled three

times, turning the ball over on two of those.

A rare shutout, showcased Graham’s relentless defense. In the first, the GMen went up by two scores, the first off Dalton Roberts’ 60-yard pass that pushed Blake Graham into the end zone. The second score came courtesy of a 41-yard run from sophomore Daniel Jennings.

In the second stanza, Roberts connected with Graham again on a 56-yard scoring pass.

After the half, the G-Men came out for more blood.

Dylan Nash got the scoring

started, booting a 31-yard field goal, and then Roberts reached out to Chris Ed-

wards for a 25-yard scoring pass to finish the job.

Like many of the games,

lightning brought it to an early end, shutting play down in the final frame.

VDOT plans road work in the region

In an effort to keep motorists informed, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides weekly information about highway construction and maintenance projects in southwestern Virginia. When traveling through highway work zones, use caution and be alert to changes in traffic patterns and slow-moving or stopped traffic.

To help motorists take the guesswork out of travel plans, call VDOT’s 511 or visit http:// www.511virginia.org for real-time traffic information.

Entries with asterisks (***) indicate the listing is new or the status of the project has changed since last week’s traffic alert.

INTERSTATE PROJECTS

Interstate 81 – truck climbing lanes: A project is underway to add a truck climbing lane to Interstate 81 northbound near mile marker 39 in Smyth County. The roadway shoulder is closed during construction. Pay close attention to work zone signs. (Completion: May 2024)

***Interstate 81 – Exit 17: Work continues to improve the Interstate 81 Exit

17 area. The exit 17 project includes improvements to the northbound on and off ramps, improvements to a segment of Route 75, reconstruction and relocation of Gravel Lake Road, lengthening the I-81 southbound on ramp, and relocation of the frontage road located adjacent to the northbound exit 17 off ramp.

The speed limit on I-81 is 60mph through the work zone. Work is expected to be complete for the northbound on ramp by September 13. (Completion: Late Summer/Early Fall 2023)

***Interstates 81 and 77

maintenance activities: Be alert to the following lane closures due to interstate maintenance activities:

Interstate 81 – Nighttime spill cleanup southbound between mile markers 75 and 76 in Wythe County.

– Nighttime bridge replacement activities north and southbound between mile markers 83 and 85 in Wythe County.

– Daytime super load move northbound between exits 80 and 205 and southbound from mile marker 85 to the Virginia/Tennessee state line September 11.

Interstate 77

– Daytime bridge repairs/replacement northbound between mile markers 64 and 65 in Bland County September 11-13.

– Daytime paving operations northbound at the Rocky Gap Rest Area in Bland County. Rest area will be closed from 6 a.m. –6 p.m. September 14.

PRIMARY HIGHWAYS AND HIGH TRAFFIC SEC-

ONDARY ROADS:

Bland County

***Route 604 (Walkers Creek Road): Be alert to periodic closures on Route 604 (Walkers Creek Road) in Bland County due to a bridge replacement project located 3.6 miles from Route 42 and three miles from Route 608 (Skydusky Road). Motorists are advised to watch for changing conditions, obey construction signs, and follow detours throughout this time-period. (Completion: March 2024)

Smyth County

Route 622 bridge rehab: A project to rehabilitate the Route 622 bridge over Norfolk and Western Railway in

Wythe marks 9/11

Several Wythe County churches rose in the early morning on Monday to prepare breakfast for first responders in the county.

Police officers, firefighters and EMS workers were all honored as a memory of those lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

WPD celebrates National Police Women’s Day

Sept. 12 was National Police Women’s Day! Wytheville Police Department honored the women in its ranks. The women in the WPD run from Cpl. Chastity Russel, with nearly 25 years of service, to the newest, Officer Brandi Holmes, who is in the middle of field training after graduating from the police academy in June, and Officer Ashlyn Wilson, who will graduate in December.

Smyth County continues. Be alert to temporary traffic signals at Route 11 and Route 622 (Haven Ridge Road). Motorists should use caution in the area and pay close attention to signs and message boards.

(Completion: May 2024)

Route 606 pipe replacement: A pipe replacement project is underway on Route 606 (Grosses Creek Road) in Smyth County. One lane is closed. Be alert to message boards and workers. (Completion: Late September 2023)

Tazewell County

Route 16 (W. Riverside Drive) bridge replacement over Cavitts Creek: Work is underway to replace the Route 16 bridge over Cavitts Creek in Tazewell. Motorists should be alert to onelane traffic being controlled by traffic signals. The travel lane width on Route 16 at the bridge is restricted to 9 feet 6 inches. (Completion: June 2024)

Route 91 slide repairs: Cleanup and repairs to a portion of Route 91 in Tazewell County continue and a portion of the road remains closed. Routes 601 and 607 are the detour routes, an approximately 5-mile de-

tour.

Washington County

Route 58 widening near Damascus: Due to Route 58 construction activities near Damascus, a traffic switch remains in place in the work zone diverting traffic from Route 58 onto Drowning Ford Road, into the new Route 58 intersection and back on to “old”

Route 58. Temporary traffic signals and a pilot vehicle will be used 24-hours-a-day to maintain traffic and enhance safety. This is expected to last approximately 3-4 weeks until traffic can be switched onto newly constructed Route 58. (Completion: May 2024)

Route 11/140 intersection improvements in Abingdon: The project will realign the turn lanes and coordinate traffic signals located at the intersection of Route11/Jonesboro Road and at Jonesboro Road/ VHCC Drive (Virginia Highlands Community College entrance). Be alert to periodic delays and altered traffic patterns. (Completion: October 2023)

Wythe County

Route 619 bridge: Due to replacement of the Route

619 bridge over Interstate 81 exit 84 in Wythe County, motorists should be alert to one-lane traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals across the Route 619 bridge. Be alert to the possibility of slight delays on I-81 due to the bridge work above the interstate. Trucks accessing northbound I-81 at exit 84 should consider taking Route 11 north to exit 86 to access I-81 north. (Completion: December 2023)

Route 649 (Atkins Mill Road) bridge: Due to bridge repairs, the Route 649 (Atkins Mill Road) bridge in Wythe County is closed to traffic until 4 p.m. September 20. The bridge is located .05-mile from Route 720 and .77-mile from Route 11. Motorists should plan alternate routes during the closure. (Completion: September 20)

Route 671 (Crigger Road) bridge: Due to an upcoming bridge replacement project, the Route 671 (Crigger Road) bridge in Wythe County has been restricted to one 11-footwide lane and a three-ton weight limit. Construction is scheduled to begin April 2024.

Rough night for Ryan

BY CHAD OSBORNE

Have a look at these numbers:

7 1/3 innings pitched

• 1 batter plunked

Rough night for the guy on the mound, right?

Those statistics don’t exactly scream future hall of famer. They don’t shout, or even gently whisper, “Hey, this guy will someday be one of the best pitchers in baseball history.”

Reading those last two sen-

tences, you know the pitcher I’m referring to. Yep, that ghastly stat line belongs to Nolan Ryan, and it came from the last game the lanky righty ever pitched for the Mets. Find the rest of the story at https:// marionmets.substack.com/p/ nolan-ryan-pitches-lastgame-for