Local Heroes
AG honors Bruzzo, Williams
By Jessica Blevins
They don’t do it for the spotlight. In fact, most days, their work goes unseen—quiet conversations in courthouse hallways, comforting a mother who just heard a guilty verdict, standing beside a child on the worst day of their life. But this week, two local women were finally seen.
Elizabeth Bruzzo and Susan Williams were named re-
cipients of the 2024 Unsung Hero Award, presented by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The award honors those who go above and beyond in supporting victims of crime with compassion, courage, and relentless commitment.
For Bruzzo, a deputy commonwealth’s attorney in Washington County since
Heavenly goods at Mule Hell
By Laura Sumner
Mule Hell Trading Company is a unique name for a store. It turns out that the store is just as unique as the name! The store is located at 118 S Main St in Galax. While the store has only been in Galax since 2018, the plant-based natural ingredients products that are made and sold here
2,
Susan Williams, left, and Elizabeth Bruzzo.
JIDA luncheon honors Wythe industries
The Joint Industrial Development Authority held its annual Tenure Awards luncheon to celebrate Wythe County industries on April 24 at the Wytheville Meeting Center. An important part of the Joint IDA’s annual industry appreciation activities is our recognition of companies that have had a presence in Wythe County for a multiple of five years. Thetenure awards give us an opportunity to acknowledge and honor the important contributions made by these businesses in our community.
Joining the Joint IDA Board of Directors and the celebrated businesses were members of Wythe County ad -
ministration, Wytheville Town Council members and administration, Town of Rural Retreat Administration and business service partners Wytheville Community College, Mount Rogers Regional Partnership, and the Wytheville-WytheBland Chamber of Commerce. The Joint
IDA also recognized the ongoing community support of WythevilleOffices.com, who has been the sole sponsor of the luncheon since its inception in 2005.
Joint IDA Executive Director David Manley shared the history of each company being awarded, and a commemorative glass tro-
Trail Days returns
Damascus is celebrating its 38th year of the Appalachian Trail Days Festival on May 16-18, 2025, as the town gears up for another busy season of hikers on the Appalachian Trail. The title sponsor again this year is Hyperlite Mountain Gear, a company popular among hikers for its ultralight backpacks, shelters, tarps, and accessories.
Known as "Trail Days” by locals and hikers, it’s the biggest event of the year in Damascus and the world’s largest celebration of the Appalachian Trail and hiker culture. Each year, the town swells from 700 residents to an estimated 25,000 people for the festival. Hikers often catch shuttles in from towns a couple of hours away. Past-year hikers return to Damascus to reunite with friends from the trail. Residents of Southwest Virginia and the Tri-Cities come to be a part of the experience, whether for the week-
end or just for a day. Volunteers travel from across the Southeast US and beyond to support the Trail Days Ministry Team. The event is so large that the town hosts a campground area, known as Tent City, to help accommodate the crowds.
The Appalachian Trail Days Festival is family-friendly, free to the public, and packed with activities. This outdoor event continues rain or shine. The town park fills with over a hundred vendors of handmade goods and some of the best outdoor gear in the industry, as well as nonprofit trail partners and a busy schedule of lectures, workshops, and live music. Local businesses offer event specials throughout downtown. Fan favorites include the hiker talent show at the Town Park stage, hiker parade and water fight along Laurel Avenue, drum circle at Tent City, and abundant "trail magic" free services offered throughout the town.
phy was presented by Joint IDA Chairman Michael Cole. The following companies were recognized for their contributions to the community over extended periods: Clarke Precision Machine Inc. was honored
for 10 years. Southwest Specialty Heat Treat Inc. and Camrett Logistics Inc. were honored for 30 years.
AQ Transformer Solutions Inc. was honored for 40 years. Coperion Corporation was honored for 45 years. And Stevens Feed Mill of Rural Retreat was honored for 125 years.
The Joint IDA Board would like to thank each of these companies for doing business in Wythe County and for their commitment to our communities.
Stevens Feed Mill is honored for 125 years of service. Coperion Coporation is honored for 45 years of service.
Serving Bland, Grayson, Carroll, Smyth, Washington and Wythe counties.
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May Day Magic
The annual May Day event at The Homestead for second-grade students in Wythe County public schools was another fun two days for approximately 300 students from Jackson Memorial, Max Meadows, Rural Retreat, Sheffey, Speedwell and Spiller elementary schools!
Students learned about gunsmithing, woodworking, beekeeping, saltmaking and open hearth cooking. Students also milked Ole Bessie (fake cow), made butter (and ate it too!), petted some animals, got some vegetable seeds to take home (thanks to local 4-H and Rural King), made a May Day bouquet of flowers, played old-time games, and danced around the May Pole!
Students dance around the May Pole. Top right, Ole Bessie stands still for a milking. Right, students learn bout making salt.
Gunsmith Jacob Porter talks about weapons.
Woodworking was a key part of early life.
Welcome Jill Snider & Etthan Miller
Jill Snider, MSN, CFNP
Master of Science - Nursing: Radford University in VA Bachelor of ScienceNursing: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Specializing In: • Preventative Care • Laceration Repair
• Physical Exams • Diabetes & Nutrition Treatments
• Vaccination Administration • Minor Office Procedures
• General Health • Blood Pressure
Etthan C. Miller, FNP-BC
Master of Science - Family Nurse Practitioner: Walden University, Minneapolis, MN
Specializing In:
• General Health • Blood Pressure
• Arthritis • Diabetes • Sick Visits • Immunizations
• Sports Injury • Physical Exams
Out and Go
Saturday, May 10
Rex Theatre: Colby T. Helms will take the stage at the Rex Theatre at 7 p.m., bringing a raw, unfiltered look at life in rural Appalachia. Helms, alongside his band The Virginia Creepers, promises a performance that is both a time capsule and a beacon of hope. "When you listen to me, I hope you feel like you’re not alone and that you have a chance to fulfill your purpose,” Helms said. Tickets start at $17.50.
Saturday, May 17
Blue Ridge Music Center: The Center will host a free event for all ages, including live performances, a petting zoo, art activities, a scavenger hunt, a guided hike and a family square dance. The event, set for the breezeway, plaza and indoor theater, runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Performance schedule is: The Brothers Young at 11:30 a.m., Ettore Buzzini at 12:30 p.m., Newfound Gap at 1:30 p.m. and Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer from 3 to 4 p.m.
Fiddler’s Convention: The Crooked Road will host the Youth Fiddler’s Convention on Saturday, May 17, at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., with the competition beginning at noon. Registration will remain open until the end of the competition. The competition will feature more than$1,000 in cash prizes for both individual instrumentalists and bands. Categories include Folk Song, Clawhammer Banjo, Bluegrass, Old Time Fiddle, Bluegrass Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin, Old Time Band, and Bluegrass Band. Prizes for individual instrumentalists are first place: $75, sec-
ond place: $50, third place: $25. Prizes for bands are first place: $150, second place: $100, third place: $75.
Millwald Theatre: Get ready for an evening with Darrell Scott, one of the most respected singer-songwriters and multiinstrumentalists in Americana music. With a style that blends folk, country, and blues, Scott’s performances are soulful, moving, and deeply personal. Scott’s show is set for 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 21
Withers Park: The Wall of Honor Committee will host a candlelight ceremony of remembrance on Wednesday, May 21, beginning at 7 p.m. in Withers Park. Following a brief program, attendees will have the opportunity to light a candle in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The program will include honoring all local veterans who gave their lives in World Wars I and II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War and are memorialized on the War Monuments in Withers Park.
May 23-24
Bristol Motor Speedway: Large Cars & Guitars IV is gearing up for its biggest and most impactful year yet, moving to the legendary Bristol Motor Speedway on May 23-24. This annual trucking and music festival, founded by country artist and trucker Tony Justice, is more than just a celebration of Big Rigs & Rockin Country Soul—it’s a powerful event for a cause. Artists on tap include Montgomery Gentry, Elvie Shane, Emi Sunshine, Tony Justice and more.
Sunday, May 24
Floyd Country Store: Amanda Cook Band is scheduled to perform at 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 25
Lincoln Theatre: Letters From Home infuses the classic style of wartime music with a witty, modern edge. The Lincoln Theatre is thrilled to host Letters From Home for another spectacular annual performance, sponsored by the town of Marion and VFW Post 4667. This Memorial Day celebration will take place at 3 p.m. There is no charge to attend, and no reservation is needed.
Friday, May 30
Lincoln Theatre: SPANKthe80s is on tap for Friday, May 30, at 7:30 p.m. Last year, SPANKthe80s absolutely brought down the house with their electrifying, neon-colored, over-the-top celebration of the ‘80s. From Michael Jackson and Prince to Bon Jovi and Journey, the group delivers all of the decade’s hits with unmatched high-energy and authenticity. For more information about The Lincoln Theatre and event tickets, please visit www.thelincoln.org or call (276)783-6092.
Saturday, May 31
Lincoln Theatre: T.G. Sheppard is set to play Saturday, May 31, at 7 p.m., celebrating 50 years of making music at Marion’s historic Lincoln Theatre. This sensational tour features all the most beloved tunes from Sheppard’s expansive repertoire, along with some personal favorites and be-
tween-song reflections on his life and career. For more information about The Lincoln Theatre and event tickets, please visit www. thelincoln.org or call (276)7836092.
July 12
Ace is the place in Galax
Food City officials recently celebrated Grand Opening ceremonies for their new Curt’s Ace Hardware on EastStuart Drive in Galax. The location marks the retailer’s 14th Curt’s Ace Hardware location.
"Much like our Food City stores, we are excited to continue to grow and expand our Curt’s Ace Hardware family of stores,” says Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. "Sadly, locally owned hardware stores are becoming a thing of the past. Having served in the grocery industry for 40+ years, I have seen firsthand how important a local well-run supermarket is to the community, and I think the same holds true for local hardware stores.”
The company currently operates
Curt’s Ace Hardware locations in Prestonsburg, Kentucky; Morristown, Pigeon Forge, Newport, Erwin, Elizabethton, Gray, Piney Flats, and Ocoee, Tennessee; and Bristol, Abingdon, Marion, and Lebanon, with additional locations coming soon.
"We greatly appreciate the support of our loyal customers, and we want to leverage our Curt’s Ace Hardware brand to better serve the communities where we already do business,” says Smith. "Food City is the name you trust for your grocery needs, now we can help with your home and garden needs as well. Given our vast merchandising and marketing experience, our team has done an excellent job managing and operating these locations.”
Widener joins Ballad
Levi Widener, PA-C, has joined Ballad Health Cancer Care in Abingdon and Marion, specializing in oncology and hematology.
At Ballad Health Cancer Care – Abingdon, Widener offers a broad range of services and treatments, including laboratory test interpretation, medical counseling, medical education, medical screening and primary care.
"My personal philosophy revolves mainly around empathy, compassion and excellent quality medical care,” Widener said.
Go: Upcoming
From Page 6
Blue Ridge Music Center: The Lorena Guillen Tango Ensemble is scheduled to play the Blue Ridge Music Center’s summer concert series at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 12. Tickets are $20 and free for those 12 and younger.
Saturday, June 14
Hitachi Energy Arena: Big Daddy Weave will bring the Let it Begin tour to the Hitachi Energy Arena on June 14.Joining the renowned Christian music group will be Ben Fuller and Megan Woods, promising an unforgettable night of worship and music. Ticket sales begin March 31 at 10 a.m. Tickets are $50 for front row, $40 for floor, $25 for close grandstands and $15 for back grandstands.
Friday, June 20
Millwald Theatre: Blues firebrand Eric Gales will bring his scorching sounds to the Millwald Theatre on June 20 for a 7:30 p.m. show.
July 14
Lincoln Theatre: Missoula Children’s theatre rolls into Marion for its annual residency. This year, the troupe will be casting for “The Wizard of Oz.” Performance is Saturday, July 19. MCT requires registration, which can be found on thelincoln.org or by contacting their box office at 276-783-6092.
July 14-20
Millwald Theatre: The curtain again rises on a magical summer experience for young performers! The Broadway Bound Theatre Camp is back.
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Crossword by Margie E. Burke
Carter joining E&H
Smyth County Schools Superintendent Dr. Dennis Carter will join the executive team at Emory & Henry University in August to lead innovation and educational partnership development.
Carter, a 1995 E&H graduate, has been named vice president of strategic partnerships and innovation.
He will assume this new leadership position Aug. 1, following his retirement from the Smyth County Public Schools.
In making the announcement, E&H President Lou Fincher signaled her intention to continue the University's emphasis on developing strategic partnerships that support the University’s mission and enhance its academic, financial and institutional growth.
"Doctor Carter brings a level of
servant leadership experience that is critical at this juncture in higher education. His proven success in working collaboratively with regional partners to secure funding and achieve shared goals will enhance our ability to provide meaningful, creative opportunities for our students,” Fincher said.
A lifelong educator, Carter played a significant role in the development of the Southwest Virginia Healthcare Excellence Academy Lab School (SWVA-HEALS) program, which is administered by Emory & Henry, and currently serves as the vice chair of the HEALS Governing Board.
Carter expressed pride in the E&H mission of regional engagement and servant leadership, which is conSee CARTER,Page 10
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Marion Mountain Dew event in the works
The Town of Marion has been recognized by the commonwealth of Virginia as "The Birthplace of Modern Mountain Dew,” acknowledging the community’s role in the development of this regional project that grew to become of of the world’s favorite soft drinks. "Marion’s Bill Jones perfected his recipe for the soft drink we enjoy today
right here in Marion, using locals to taste test dozens of versions until he hit it right,” said Marion Mayor Avery Cornett.
The official dedication is set for Friday, May 23, at noon at the marker site adjacent to the actual building where the flavor was created at 517 North Main.
Hitachi expanding into Smyth County
Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced today that Hitachi Energy, a global technology leader that provides electrical grid infrastructure to customers in the utility, industry, transportation, data center and infrastructure sectors, is expanding transformer production capacity in Virginia to meet increased demand. The company is investing $22.5 million to expand its current facility in Bland, Virginia, the country’s leading source of dry-type transformers, and to add a warehouse facility in Atkins, Virginia, that will handle core cutting and warehousing work. The expansion will create 120 new jobs.
"Hitachi Energy’s investment in the new Atkins facility and the transformative modernization of the Bland plant is a powerful endorsement of Virginia’s manufacturing capabilities,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. "This world-class company’s investment in Southwest Virginia is not only expanding domestic transformer production, but also creating high-quality, skilled jobs and driving innovation in energy infrastructure. Hitachi Energy is a trusted, long-term partner with Virginia, and together we are growing a hub of energy innovation and infrastructure advancement.”
"Hitachi Energy’s expansion is a testament to the power of innovation and global leadership rooted in local communities,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. "We’re proud to support this milestone and the positive impact it will have on Southwest Virginia.”
"The new facility in
Atkins, alongside the upgrades at our existing site in Bland, represents a major milestone in our commitment to building resilient energy infrastructure in the U.S.,” said Steve McKinney, Senior Vice President and Head of Transformers, North America, Hitachi Energy. "Virginia has been an essential part of our manufacturing story for over 50 years, and this expansion reflects our confidence in the region’s skilled workforce and strong support for innovation. This investment reflects Hitachi Energy’s broader commitment to strengthening local manufacturing in the U.S.”
Hitachi Energy employs approximately 450 people in Bland who design and manufacture medium-voltage, dry-type transformers. These transformers are used to adjust and stabilize the voltage of electricity flowing through the United States’ power grids, as well as in specialized industries like data centers and renewable energy generation. The facility has operated in Bland since 1972.
"I am delighted that Hitachi Energy has chosen
to further expand their operation in Southwest Virginia!” said Senator Travis Hackworth. "We’ve enjoyed a decades-long relationship with the company in Bland County and are looking forward to their expansion into Atkins, bringing more jobs to the region. Thanks to Governor Youngkin and VEDP for working with our local partners and Hitachi Energy to make this exciting announcement possible. We look forward to the company’s future growth and success in Southwest Virginia.”
"Thisis excellent news for Bland County,” said Delegate Will Morefield. "We are grateful to Hitachi Energy for staying committed to the region. The creation of 120 new jobs is much needed and I am confident this will ensure that we will have more opportunities to further diversify the economy in Bland. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and the newly elected chairman of the Virginia Tobacco Commission, my colleagues and I will continue our support for Hitachi Energy and contin-
ue to promote job growth in Bland County and throughout Southwest Virginia.”
"Bland County is proud to be the home of Hitachi Energy!” said Bland County Administrator Cameron Burton. "We look forward to the exciting opportunities that this expansion will bring in Bland County, to our partners in Smyth County, our region and Commonwealth.”
"We are proud to welcome Hitachi Energy to Smyth County and excited to see this regional expansion bring new opportunities to our community,” said
Smyth County Board of Supervisors Chairman Charles Atkins. "This project represents the kind of collaborative economic development that strengthens our entire region and showcases what’s possible when we invest in strong partnerships.”
This project follows a $6.2 million expansion that was completed in 2021, which provided additional production capacity and created 40 new jobs. State-of-the art technology was installed to support new manufacturing capabilities and created 40 new jobs at this location.
Heroes: AG honors Bruzzo and Williams
2016, the recognition felt meaningful not just because of the title— but because of who nominated her.
"I was honored to be awarded one of this year’s Office of the Attorney General Unsung Hero Awards,” she said. "Being nominated by Sheriff Blake Andis and his agency meant so very much, and I’m grateful to work with all the men and women at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.”
Bruzzo has spent her career fighting for vic-
tims of domestic and sexual violence and crimes against children. She helped secure multiple life sentences for child predators, and in 2024, won a 30-year conviction— with a lifetime protective order—for a violent sexual assault case. But she’s quick to deflect the attention.
"I’m equally grateful to work for Josh Cumbow and with all the staff of the Washington County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, where everyone is an unsung hero in my eyes,” she said.
Carter:
From Page 8
sistently expressed through successful graduates, quality teacher education and effective service learning.
Carter also was instrumental in helping Emory & Henry establish the Grow Your Own Teachers Program and the new Teachers for Tomorrow program, which is a collaborative initiative involving Emory & Henry, Virginia Highlands Community College and Wytheville Community College.
In his new position, Carter will provide administrative oversight for the HEALS program and the College Partnership Laboratory School grant provided by the Virginia Department of Education.
He will also work to establish partnerships that open new enrollment markets and build new for-credit and non-credit workforce-aligned credentials while advocating for policies and funding opportunities that support the University’s strategic priorities.
Carter has a distinguished record of community service and community engagement leadership. He currently serves on many community boards, including the Smyth County Community Foundation, Smyth County Community Hospital Board, EO Board of Directors and United Way of Southwest Virginia.
She’s seen firsthand how trauma ripples through a community—and how justice, when served with empathy, can start to rebuild it.
"No community is immune to domestic and sexual violence or crimes against children,” Bruzzo said. "Every person we support and empower through our criminal justice system is a person that helps strengthen and empower our community. Victims of these crimes are the strongest people you will ever meet, and we’re
just here to help them in their journey.”
In neighboring Smyth County, Susan Williams has been on that same journey with victims for nearly three decades.
As director of the Victim Witness Program, Williams acts as a bridge between the court system and the people it serves. She’s there from the beginning—explaining charges, attending trial, preparing statements for sentencing. In 2024 alone, she guided two fami -
lies through separate murder trials, helping them find their voices in the face of unthinkable loss.
When a Smyth County sheriff’s deputy was killed in the line of duty, Williams rushed to the scene—not as a first responder, but as a steady presence for the grieving family and fellow officers.
Her colleagues describe her as deeply empathetic, but also steady under pressure. She’s the person people look to when everything else is falling apart.
The Unsung Hero Award may be a statewide recognition, but for both Williams and Bruzzo, the work is never about attention. It’s about showing up—day after day, case after case—offering strength when others have none left to give. And for two women whose efforts often go unnoticed, this moment of recognition was less about the spotlight, and more about the message it sends to every survivor they serve: you are not alone.
Mule: Personal care products in Galax
have been in circulation since 2010.
For three years, the products were sold at Farmer’s Markets and Wholesale. In 2013, the first store front opened in an old garage in Cripple Creek and was in operation there for five years until Mule Hell moved to Main Street in Galax.
The store features more products than I can name in one article. But to name a few – soaps, chapsticks, shave bars, shampoo bars, facial
products and body sprays and oils are all made in house. The biggest seller is the bar soap. The soap is made using a cold process. The ingredients are poured into a tub eighty pounds at a time and when ready the block of soap is cut into 170 individual bars of soap.
It is fascinating to walk through the store and look at all the products and see all of the different fragrances and varieties to choose from.
SwvaSun named Sweepstakes winner in VPA contest
The Virginia Press Association announced its Best in Show and Sweepstakes awards during the VPA News & Advertising Conference held at the Omni Richmond Hotel on Saturday, April 12.
Angela Corvin cleaned up for the SwvaSun, winning the Advertising Sweepstakes in the online category.
Corvin won eight advertising awards in the online category of the VPA news and advertising contest.
Judges, who were selected from the Oregon News Publishers Association, commented that Corvin’s design for Dream Catcher Travel was a “Wonderful use of space.” Corvin took first place honors in online entertainment, online food and drug, online home and garden, online lifestyles and online professional services (excluding medical/health care). She received second place awards in online lifestyles and online professional services (excluding medical/health care). Corvin also won third place in online professional services (excluding medical/health care)
On the news side of the contest, Marcus Caudill won first place in online sports news photo.
To realize that all of that is made on location is truly remarkable. There is a wall in the back of the store where the products are made that is totally full of all different essential oils and fragrances. The names given to some of the fragrances show the uniqueness of the store and are also a little tribute to our area. Some fragrance names that caught my attention in the store were Old Mule, Dirty Hippie and New River!
When talking with
the owner, Crystal, you can tell that she loves her work and truly wants to help people with their hair and skin needs. She is very accommodating and is very knowledgeable about her products and also about the history of the area.
The store got its name from a road in Wythe County. Mule Hell Road is 22 miles North of Galax and the area and name have ties to the Civil War. There are discrepancies in some of the stories told re-
garding how the areas got their names, but Mule Hell and Horse Haven both have a place in the history of our area. Crystal knows a lot about the history of the area and just how involved our area was during the Civil War. Besides wanting to buy some things for my skin care routine, talking with her for a little bit made me want to brush up on my history of the area!
While visiting the store for just a brief time over the weekend, I saw people
come in and fill up their arms with things to purchase. I saw people come in and just look around without buying anything. It is definitely worth a stop, whether you need anything or not. Mule Hell Trading Company is closed on Sunday. They are open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. You can also order products online at www.mulehelltradingco.com , but if you are close enough to drive to the store, it is worth it for the experience.
Wythe man legs out Boston
By Zach Cooley
Jeremy Moore has always been a runner—running was in his blood from the time he was born.
His middle name was given in honor of Olympic runner Jim Ryun, and his father was a track athlete in his hometown of Deposit, New York. As a military child, Moore lived all over the world until finally settling in Max Meadows, where his grandparents lived. This move came during his junior year of high school after his father retired from military service.
A 1991 graduate of Fort Chiswell High School, Moore was a member of the school’s inaugural cross-country team in 1989. He continued his running career in college as a student at Bluefield State. Since then, Moore has served successfully in the military and completed 13marathons. Most recently—and notably— the longtime Wythe County resident completed the prestigious Boston Marathon on April 21.
"My high school coach, Kim Kniseley, had run the Boston Marathon,” Moore recalled. "I remember being in awe of his accomplishment. I never dreamed that I would one day run it myself.”
In 2022, Moore ran the Marine Corps Marathon, followed by the Shamrock Marathon later that spring. Though he qualified for the 2024 Boston Marathon, his time was not fast enough to earn him a spot in that year’s race.
"That drove me to make sure I made it the next year,” he said. "I ran 9 minutes and 40 seconds faster than my qualifying time of 3 hours, 25 minutes, which earned me a spot in the Boston Mara-
Gold medal family gathers wins on the mat
By Zach Cooley
Eric Cregger is one proud dad—and for good reason. All three of his young children have already built impressive wrestling résumés, each one earning their fair share of gold medals.
The eldest of the trio is just 8years old, yet the Cregger siblings have already made waves in youth wrestling circuits across Virginia. With discipline, drive, and undeniable talent, they’ve taken their hometown of Rural Retreat by storm.
The oldest, 8-year-old Clara, has had an especially remarkable season. She wrapped up the year with an outstanding 31-2 record and capped it off with a first-place finish in the girls’ division at the Virginia State Championships. What’s even more impressive is that many of Clara’s matches weren’t against just girls—she also took on boys in her weight class.
"That includes wrestling boys who weigh 50pounds,” her father noted proudly. "Clara only weighs 45pounds.”
Though a five-pound difference might seem minor, when you weigh only 45 pounds yourself, that’s more than 10percent of your body weight—a significant disadvantage on the mat. Still, Clara didn’t let that stop her. Her journey into the sport wasn’t exactly born out of initial interest, though. According to Eric, Clara wasn’t as eager to start wrestling at first, but her curiosity grew after seeing her younger brother Rhett take to it with enthusiasm and success.
Seven-year-old Rhett is already somewhat of a seasoned competitor, despite his age. After beginning his wrestling journey in December 2023, he’s quickly risen through the ranks. Last year, Rhett finished third in the state tournament, but this year, he came back with a vengeance.
He celebrated his 100th career win this past December—a milestone many athletes don’t see until their teen years, if at all.
This season, Rhett compiled an impressive 87-18 record. His performance qualified him for the state championships held at Glenvar High School in Salem, where he advanced to compete at the prestigious Roanoke College arena. It was there, inside the Cregger Cen-
Jeremy Moore poses after the Boston Marathon.
Boston: Wythe runner in marathon
In addition to meeting the qualifying time, runners may also participate in the Boston Marathon by partnering with charities that provide sponsorships. Moore explained that runners are given roughly six hours to complete the 26.2-mile course. In addition to running through Boston, participants pass through seven neighboring towns during the race.
Moore completed the marathon in an impressive 3 hours, 12 minutes, and 27 seconds.
"There are four major hills in the race,” he said.
"The last one is aptly called Heartbreak Hill. After that, the course becomes mostly downhill—which actually presented the biggest challenge for me.”
"Running downhill after just completing Heartbreak Hill is really tough because your quads are already exhausted,” Moore explained. "Running downhill increases the cramping.”
He expressed deep appreciation for a volunteer who greeted him at the finish line.
"You just completed the Boston Marathon!” the volunteer shouted, handing him a medal. "That’s when it really sunk in,” Moore recalled. "The excitement was
through the roof. It was a truly awesome experience.”
Moore has already qualified for the 2026 Boston Marathon and hopes to compete again next year. His family was there to support him, including his wife Pamela, their two children and their spouses, four grandchildren, his mother, aunt, and niece. While in Boston, the family enjoyed sightseeing, including a duck boat tour and lunch at a sandwich shop near Boston Common.
"I wanted to make sure everybody had something to do that they enjoyed,” Moore said.
He also credited his mentor and fellow Wytheville
resident, Mark Wagner, who has competed in three Boston Marathons.
"He has been a tremendous encouragement and friend to me,” Moore said. "He’s the Superman of runners—a constant mentor, friend, and supporter.”
Moore placed 7,723rd out of 28,396 runners who completed the race. In his age group (50–54), he placed 482th out of 1,994 participants.
"I want to be a positive influence on the people in the community the same way the community has been a positive influence on me,” he said. "I’ve been coaching a couple of young adults who ran the Shamrock Marathon
Gold: Rural Retreat wrestling
ter—named after Morris Cregger, a famed basketball coach and Roanoke College alumnus—that Rhett claimed the top spot, winning his state title in dominant fashion.
anything more to do with wrestling,” Eric said, chuckling at the shift. "I believe she’ll get back into it one day.”
usual.
Eric Cregger credits much of his children’s success on the mat to thon.”
Though there’s no relation to Morris Cregger, Rhett found the coincidence of sharing the same last name with the facility both fun and motivating.
"Rhett loved that the name of the building was the same as his and spelled the same as his,” Eric said with a grin. "It also became the building in which he won his own state title.”
While Clara and Rhett continue to thrive on the wrestling mat, the youngest Cregger sibling, 5-year-old Elsie, has begun to explore different interests. After picking up several gold medals of her own early on, she decided to step away from wrestling—at least for now.
"She’s becoming a girly girl and decided she didn’t want
in Virginia Beach and exceeded their goals of finishing in under four hours.”
Moore also expressed gratitude to his employer, Pascor Atlantic in Bland, where he works as an engineer.
"My work family has been so supportive of my marathon journey,” he said. "I was honored to wear a Pascor Atlantic shirt during the race.”
"It is imperative that we are constantly reaching back and pulling people forward,” he said in closing. "We need to be a constant source of support and encouragement to one another.”
Despite her recent retreat from the sport, Eric remains optimistic. After all, all three of his children started young—Rhett and Clara were just 7and 5years old when they first hit the mat. Elsie was 4. In today’s youth wrestling scene, that kind of early start isn’t un-
"In wrestling, they are starting them earlier and earlier these days,” Eric explained. "It gives them time to build technique, toughness and confidence from a young age.”
Gold: Rural Retreat
the unwavering support and dedication of their mentors.
"These kids wouldn’t be where they are without the help of Tim Miles and the coaching staff at Elite Wrestling Club in Christiansburg, as well as the Vikings Wrestling Club in Bristol,” he said. "Viking coaches T.J. Keklak, Nick Keklak, and Zac Deel pushed them to be great— even when the outcomes weren’t what they hoped for. Those guys drove two hours just to be there for them at qualifiers and the state tournament.”
He also expressed deep appreciation for James Bear, Andy Harr and Brian Gibson of Rural Retreat Youth Wrestling, who first sparked Rhett’s love for the sport.
"And the practice partners at all these clubs play a huge role in their development. Without them, these kids wouldn’t be where they are competitively today.”
Each child has their own reason for loving the sport—and their own way of expressing it.
Elsie, despite stepping
away for now, still holds a soft spot for wrestling.
"I love wrestling because I get medals when I try a little harder,” she said with a smile.
Rhett, ever the competitor, appreciates the medals—but also the experience.
"I like wrestling because I
From April 29 toNov. 7, Wytheville traffic will be detoured in the area north of the 20th Street bridge from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
During the posted times, this detour will restrict traffic flow to the intersection of South 20th and West Jefferson streets.
All residents with homes located within the restricted area will still have access to these dwellings.
All other traffic will be restricted to the area.
Please contact the Town of Wytheville’s Public Utilities and Engineering Department at 276-223-3342.
WCCH earns A safety grade
Wythe County Community Hospital (WCCH) earned an "A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an "A,” "B,” "C,” "D” or "F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30
measures of errors, accidents, injuries and infection.
"We are very pleased with this high mark, which places WCCH among the top tier of hospitals across the country when it comes to patient safety,” said Vicki Parks, WCCH CEO.
get 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and win state,” he said. "But I have fun and enjoy it too.”
And Clara, the trailblazer, summed up her season with pride and a competitive edge.
"I’m happy I won state, and beat a lot of boys,” she said.
Wytheville Community College is currently recruiting for the following positions:
Public Relations and Development Coordinator
For a detailed position description and the application process for the position, see the college website at http://www.wcc.vccs.ed u/employmentopportunitiesinformation WCC IS AN EEO INSTITUTION and a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified Company.
Gagnon's volunteer work awarded
Each year, Food City recognizes outstanding volunteerism among their dedicated team of associates through the Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program.
The program is named in memory of Food City’s beloved former president and board vice-chairman of 47 years, Claude P. Varney, who was wellknown for his tremendous compassion and humanitarian services.
Rosie Nanette Gagnon of Galax was selected as this year’s Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award recipient. She serves as the Personal Shopper for the Food City in Galax. Gagnon’s oldest son, Dexter, a U.S. Marine died by suicide in 2018. Following his death, she began running 100-mile ultramarathons in his memory to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. She partnered with two organizations, Wear Blue
Run to Remember and 22tooMany to help raise funds for this important cause and have the opportunity to share her story on a national scale. Last year, Wear Blue sponsored Gagnon in their nationwide Warrior 100 campaign, a two-month event focused on veteran suicide prevention.
Gagnon will be recognized for her outstanding achievements and Food City is making a $1,250 contribution to the charity of her choice.
"We’re extremely proud of the difference our associates make in their community by devoting their time and talents in the service of others,” said Smith.
Local state police honored
The Children’s Emergency Care Alliance of Tennessee awarded the Virginia State Police trooper-pilots and crew of Med-Flight 2 with the "Mutual Aid State Award” on April 30.
Two Med Flight 2 helicopters, based in Abingdon flew into Tennessee on Sept. 27, 2024, rescuing 40 patients and others from the roof of Unicoi County Hospital as the waters of the Nolichucky River sur-
rounded the structure. The rescued patients were flown to a nearby field. The entire pro-
cess took roughly four hours. Med Flight 2 crossed state lines to make the rescues be-
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cause the weather window during the storm was more favorable in Virginia. State Police were retired 1st Sgt. Jeffrey W. Bush, Master Trooper-Pilot Bryan W. Canada and Trooper-Pilot Jacob A. Culp.
The award also recognized Ballad Health Flight Nurse April Boyd and Flight Nurse/Paramedic Wayne Carroll. Ballad Health is Virginia State Police’s partner in operating Med Flight 2.
