The Southwest Virginia Sun Wythe County July/August

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Wythe County July/August 2024

Volume 2, No. 5

Yale Bound

By Zach Cooley

Center gets new name

Recent George Wythe High School graduate Ivy Lin will be heading off soon to one of the most prestigious schools in the country.

Oh, and she has a full ride scholarship to boot.

Lin, a Wytheville native, plans on majoring in biology at Yale University.

Apex no more!

Wythe County is now home to Hitachi Energy Arena, the regional venue hosting Blue Ridge Bobcats Pro Hockey, upcoming concerts and other major events.

The county-owned venue's tenant, Apex Drive Holdings, announced Wednesday a re-

See YALE, Page 5

See ARENA, Page 3

Wytheville's Ivy Lin secures full ride

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July/August 2024

Yoder's offers high quality, portable buildings Yoder's Quality Buildings, located in Rural Retreat, Virginia, is dedicated to providing customers with the best possible value for their money. Their portable buildings are designed and constructed using only the highest quality materials and techniques, ensuring that they will last for years to come.

The company offers two main styles of portable buildings: the Lofted Barn and the Aroofed, Utility style.

Within these styles, they offer a range of buildings designed for various purposes, including storage buildings, cabins, and garages. The buildings are available in sizes

up to 16'x54 and can be customized with a variety of doors and windows, as well as basic electrical packages and closed cell spray foam insulation.

One of the key features of Yoder's Quality Buildings is their attention to detail in their construction methods.

Their floor systems, for example, are built using 4x6 pressure treated runners that are notched to receive 2x6 pressure treated floor joists placed 16" on center. The standard flooring in their cabins and storage sheds is 5/8" LP ProStruct, with an available upgrade to 3/4" LP Legacy. Their garages feature 3/4" flooring and 2x6 treat-

ed joists on 12" centers as standard features.

The walls of their wood-sided buildings are constructed using 2x4 studs placed 16" on center with a double stud every 48". A double top plate is standard on all wood sided buildings. The buildings are sided with LP Smartpanel, which features a 50-year warranty. Metal-sided buildings are studded 24" on center with a double stud every 48" and covered with 7/16" OSB under 30-year metal siding.

Yoder's Quality Buildings takes pride in their truss design and construction, which are done in-house specifically for their build-

ings. The trusses are made of 2x4 lumber, with an upgrade to 2x6 available, and are reinforced with pressed in, steel gang plates at every joint. The trusses are placed 24" on center on all 8', 10', and 12' wide buildings, and 14' and 16' wide buildings have trusses placed 16" on center.

The trusses are tied to the top plate with a 4" Hurricane Screw in every other truss. The buildings are topped with 7/16" OSB and 30-year roofing metal in the color of the cus-

tomer's choice.

Customers can choose from 12 standard colors for the durable solid urethane coating on their LP Smartpanel wood-sided buildings. Additionally, the company offers 14 standard colors for their LP Smartside Trim, which is painted and available to complement the roof and siding. The metal roof and siding are also available in the 14 "trim" colors.

Overall, Yoder's Quality Buildings is committed to providing

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relationships one structure at a time!

Zook takes job with Wythe EMS Randall Zook recently graduated from more than 20 years of building sheds with Yoder’s Quality Buildings.

Zook began helping his father in the shed shop in 2001, when he was just 9. He’s been

an integral part of the Yoder’s team since the start in 2019.

Post-shed life will find Zook serving Wythe County as deputy emergency management coordinator.

In addition to being a

huge part of the shedbuilding community, Zook has served on the Rural Retreat Volunteer Fire Department and on Christian Aid Ministries Search and Rescue of Virginia.

high-quality portable buildings that meet the needs and exceed the expectations of their customers. With their focus on durability, functionality, and customization, they are the go-to source for anyone in the market for a portable building in Rural Retreat and surrounding areas.

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PAGE 3

July/August 2024

Arena: New name comes with new plans From Page 1

newable five-year arena naming rights deal with Hitachi Energy.

The deal has the option for an additional five years after.

Hitachi, a global leader in its field with a plant located in Bland, is wholly committed to ensuring the longterm success of the 90,000-square-foot facility. The arena has a maximum capacity of 5,400.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome the world to Hitachi Energy Arena,” said Arena General Manager Jimmy Milliken. “Hitachi is a huge partner, and will help us shape the future of the venue as well as create a destination for all in Southwest Virginia.”

“We have been a partner in this community for over 50 years,” said Hitachi Energy

Plant Manager Chuck Perrine. “It is such an important commitment to us. The future and success of our plant certainly resides within this community.”

The venue's first official events under its new name will be the "APW Blue Ridge Brawl" independent professional wrestling card on Friday, June 28, followed the next

day by a craft and vendor event on Saturday, June 29.

Signs will be added on and around the arena over the next couple of months to identify the arena on Exit 77 on Interstates 81 and 77.

Construction will begin Aug. 1 on 3,650 brand new seats, being built on a steeper incline for an enhanced hockey viewing experi-

New Ager Park playground equipment unloaded Wythe County officials unloaded new playground equipment at Ager Park on Monday.

Shortly after, construction got going to add new play elements for younger kids. The playground is closed until work is complete, which if the weather cooperates is estimated to be sometime before the end of the month.

County officials ask that you do not bypass the orange fence or enter the playground or

pavilion area at any time until work is done. The park is under video surveillance.

This is the second phase of playground work, funded by local donations, CARES Act funds, Wythe County’s budget and money from the Wythe-Bland Foundation.

Wythe County cut the ribbon on Phase I work at the playground last August. The playground had shut down in May 2023 to get ready for a re-do.

The first phase installed ADA-accessible equipment for 8 to 12-year-old youth.

The second phase will add equipment for 2 to 8-year-olds, sidewalks and a parking area.

The playground, designed and installed by Bliss Products and the Wythe County Parks and Recreation Department, was paid for by $280,000 in local area funds and a $50,000 grant from the WytheBland Foundation.

ence. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-September. Upgrades will

sweet

also be made to the arena's locker rooms as well as visual aides throughout the venue.

Once the seating is upgraded, the arena will be able to accommodate 3,700 fans.

Additionally, plans are in place to construct an amphitheater and bring in fairs, festivals and holiday events to the venue’s property.

The partnership will soon unveil a ticketing and events website at hitachienergyarena. com, and announced the first hockey games of the 2024-25 season will be played the third weekend in October.

Season tickets are on sale now at blueridgebobcats.com.

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July/August 2024

SwVa Sun

Serving Bland, Smyth and Wythe counties.

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

If you have something to share, shoot us an email at SwvaSun@gmail.com

Our Philosophy We believe in Southwest Virginia and want to make sure that all of us continue to have access to information that enriches our lives.

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

Contact Us We are published online daily at www.SwvaSun. com and every month in newspaper form. To reach us, email swvasun@gmail. com.

P.O. Box 1003 Wytheville VA 24382 Phone: 276-200-4137

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Let them know that you saw their ads here.

Help Wanted The Sun is growing and looking for contractors to cover news, features and sports and for sales reps to service and develop accounts. Contact us at swvasun@gmail.com.

Legendary musician to play Fourth

By Zach Cooley Martha Spencer is thrilled to be playing in Wytheville at Withers Park for the July 4th celebration for the town.

She fondly recalls playing country and bluegrass with her musician- filled family at Wytheville Community College during their monthly oldtime jamborees. She has also played at the Chautauqua Festival, Wytheville’s annual summer festival held each June at Elizabeth Brown Park.

As a result of the fan base she has acquired since becoming a major independent country artist, she is ready to take center stage for the town’s Independence Day festivities.

She performed on the same stage a few years ago as a member of Blue Ridge Girls. This time, she will be playing with the Wonderland Country Band, another of many musical and clogging dance

groups of which she is a member.

Martha was born into music to parents who were old-time bluegrass players on Whitetop Mountain of Grayson County. Her father, the late great Thorton Spencer, was an old-time fiddler, while her mother Emily is a singer and banjo picker.

Martha came to be a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, fiddle, banjo, bass, dulcimer, and mandolin, in addition to c lo g g ing , s ing ing , and songwriting. She grew up playing in the Whitetop Moun-

tain Band, her family group with which she still performs with her brother and mother.

She spoke via phone

from Grayson County ahead of her May 23 gig at the Fries Depot with her family about her lifelong love affair with old-time music.

“Music has always been a part of my life, both at home and traveling the world,” she said. “Music is always at the heart of who I am.”

On her own, Martha will soon travel to Ireland on her current tour, promoting her latest album, Out in La La Land, which in-

cludes a collaboration with a native North Carolina musician, whom she met in Australia named Archer on the song, “Little Darlin’,” about which she offered some insight.

“It’s about appreciating our loved ones,” she stated. “It’s about letting people know that you love them while they are still here.”

“Sometimes,” another original tune from

See MARTH, Page 10

Millwald to show 'Looney Tunes' The Millwald Theatre will provide some relief from the heat and a special retro treat with showings of “Looney Tunes” from 2 to 6 p.m. on July 4.

This time, though, “kids” of a certain age will be able to swap out their bowls of cereal for an adult beverage.

The DORA license allows for of age patrons to take their beverage out of business establishments to enjoy walking around a designated downtown area.

Visit Downtown Wytheville to learn more about their July 4th Celebration and Street Festival!

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PAGE 5

July/August 2024

Yale: Moose help bridge gap in funds From Page 1

An addition $17,000 in scholarship funds will cover the student financial contribution required of all Yale students, even those with full rids.

That additional $17,000 was awarded to Lin by the International Moose Legion, which offers more than $30,000 annually to high school students ranging from freshmen to seniors.

“The total $30,000 is raised through the Moose Legion’s Degree of Service, which consists of Moose members taking the next step of service as a member,” explains Wytheville Moose Lodge 394 administrator Dan Biertzer.

“All money for the scholarships and all expenses are covered by the Moose International and the Moose Legion so that students can advance to the International Youth Awareness.”

According to the Virginia Moose website, for the past 30 years, Moose Lodges and Chapters have organized high school students into speakers with the goal of educating pre-school and elementary school-aged children on a variety of topics, including drug and alcohol abuse, child abuse, “stranger danger,” bullying and peer pressure.

Students enrolled in the program present three Moose Kids Talks to 4- to 9-year- old children in their communities, then submit

their presentations to be judged for a chance to become a Delegate at the Moose International Student Congress held each April.

The Moose Kids Talks are then voted on by each student at the Congress, and the top five winning presentations are awarded scholarship money ranging from $2,000 to $12,000. The Virginia Moose Association’s Youth Awareness Program has been successful over the years and has proudly produced top five winners, including Wytheville’s Ivy Lin. “The kids can choose any topic they want,” said Biertzer. “The high-schoolers have no idea what the kids are going to say.”

As a freshman three years ago, Lin was recommended for the scholarship by George Wythe High School counselor Greg Taylor.

She competed in various cities, including Orlando, St. Louis and Roanoke. Competitors in 2025 will go to South Dakota. All expenses are paid, and itinerar-

ies are packed over a four-day venture.

“I had never been out of Wytheville very much,” Lin recalled.

“The opportunity to travel really attracted me to participate in this scholarship.”

Lin placed fourth in the international competition in 2023, receiving $3,000. For her senior year in 2024, she placed second and was awarded $8,000.

She also received an additional $6,000 in scholarship funds from the Virginia Moose Association.

Naturally introverted, Lin says that her greatest lesson through her work with the Moose Lodge has been learning to talk and interact with people. She hopes her biology degree will lead to a future in healthcare. She expressed gratitude to both the Wytheville Moose Lodge and the Virginia Moose Association for making this scholarship program available to students like her.

Ivy’s outstanding success has generated pride within her family, town, and our local Wytheville Moose Lodge 394. She has also served as an inspiration to her peers and is well-respected among her fellow competitors. This is evident from her actions during her pursuit of the scholarships.

Wytheville Moose Lodge administrator Dan Biertzer commended Lin after hearing a story from State Youth Coordinator Melissa Stang, who

praised the recent high school graduate for engaging with younger students in the competition.

“The first year, she said Ivy was so quiet and reserved,” Biertzer related. “This year, she was so proud of Ivy because she was encouraging the other students and was out in front, talking to them about the program.”

“The State of Virginia was very proud to have Ivy represent them through the Virginia Moose Association,” he added. “It was really great to hear how well

she had done.”

Despite competing with fellow highschoolers, Biertzer says Lin was a source of support to other students. He added that her success proves that it can be done.

“There is a lot of money available to students at no cost to them from the Moose Lodge and the Virginia Moose Association,” he continued. “Ivy’s success is proof positive that we are the only ones who can create failure within ourselves. The only person who can stop us from succeeding is

ourselves.”

Any high school students interested in the program is encouraged to visit the Moose Lodge at 1350 W. Main St. in Wytheville on Saturday, Aug. 24 to hear a presentation on the scholarship. Five different timeslots are available for students to attend with their parents, beginning at 11 a.m. and continuing hourly through noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.

For any questions, contact Dan Biertzer at 276-223-7318.

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July/August 2024

MUSIC, MOVIES, MEMORIES AND MORE! tickets and info: www.themillwald.org

Lifestyles n Entertainment n Get Out and Go Saturday, July 6

July 8-13

LincolnTheatre: Song of the Mountains returns to the Lincoln stage for a 7 p.m. show featuring The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys and Wyatt Ellis. Tickets range from $30 to $35. Song of the Mountains incorporates both traditional and contemporary performance styles in featuring old-time and bluegrass music from the region's brightest stars.

It showcases talented musicians, musical heritage, and culture of the Southern Appalachians.

The Po' Ramblin' Boys formed in the Smoky Mountains and have since toured the world with their straightforward, heartfelt sound.

The band has made frequent appearances at Raleigh's IBMA Bluegrass Live!

Floyd Country Store: Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers take the stage in Floyd at 7 p.m. At any given time, you're likely to find Jim Lauderdale making music. "It's a constant challenge to try to keep making better and better records, write better and better songs. I still always feel like I'm a developing artist,” he says. This may be a surprising sentiment from a man who's won two Grammys, released 34 full-length albums, and taken home the Americana Music Association's coveted Wagonmaster Award. His forthcoming album Game Changer is convincing evidence that the North Carolina native is only continuing to hone his craft.

Theatre Camp: Broadway Bound Theatre Camp, derived from a partnership from The Millwald Theatre and the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, is set for July 8-13.

The theaters are hosting a week for 30 campers to learn the art of acting, improv, voice, movement and more as they prepare to perform The Big Bad Musical: A Howling Courtroom Comedy. There will be a limited amount of scholarships available to applicants.

Camp is from ages 8 to 16 and will run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit https://ci.ovationtix. com/36798/store/packages/140970 to learn more and register!

Cost for the camp is $150.

Saturday July 13 Lincoln Theatre: Elvis is back in the building. Award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist, Matt Elvis Dollar, and his Million Dollar Band, The Cadillacs, will bring you "An Evening with Elvis” liveat The Lincoln Theatre starting at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10 to $15.

Sunday, July 14 Millwald Theatre: My Favorite Appalachian Folk Song comes to the Millwald from 7 to 9 p.m.

Ranging from ages 8 to 80, these Appalachian keepers of tradition were filmed performing at the Millwald Theatre this past

year. The event screening highlights ballad singing traditions from the JAM region of Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, East Tennessee, East Kentucky and West Virginia. Please join us in viewing a compilation of regional talent on the big screen!

Saturday July 20 Marion Downtown:The Hungriest Mother Food Festival returns for its 10thyear to downtown. Friday night, Phantom is back for their traditional Main Street Block Party from 6 till 10 p.m. on the Courthouse Lawn. Local Eateries and Food Trucks will have all your dinning needs. Saturday is the 10th annual "Hungriest Mother Food Festival”, named one of Virginia Living Magazine’s Top Food Festivals in Virginia, with food challenges from pickled eggs to Mountain Dew. Live entertainment includes Jigsaw Jane, The Ali Randolph Band and "Songs of the South: An Alabama Tribute” on the Main Stage. Food Trucks will be located on Broad Street and Beer Gardens will be located on Main Street.

July 25-27 Millwald Theater: When 93-year-old Thelma Post gets duped by a phone scammer pretending to be her grandson, she sets out on a treacherous quest across the city to reclaim what was taken from her. Find

See GO,Page 12

PAGE 7

July/August 2024

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July/August 2024

WCC golf fundraiser expands Report: Wythe

served as president of the Lions Club. Dr. Barnes was a soldier, an educator and a community leader, and the Appalachian Warrior Foundation established this fund in his honor to provide the same opportunities for

other veterans.

Proceeds from the annual golf tournament benefit the “Dr. Thomas L. Barnes Veterans Scholarship Fund.” Since the fund was established in 2014, the scholarship has been providing financial

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Wytheville Community College, in partnership with the Appalachian Warrior Foundation, will hold the 10th annual Dr. Thomas L. Barnes Veteran Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, at the Wytheville Golf Club in Wytheville.

The event is hosted jointly by the WCC Educational Foundation and AWF in memory of Dr. Thomas L. Barnes.

Dr. Barnes served as the Dean of Students at WCC from 1972-2004.

In addition to serving as the Dean, he was the Director of Veteran Affairs for WCC. Dr. Barnes served honorably in the United States Navy from 1964-2002 and retired as a Navy captain, holding many high-ranking positions at duty stations around the world. Dr. Barnes led and managed various activities in Wytheville and surrounding county communities, and

assistance to WCC students who are veterans or children of veterans, or are active members of the military. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the golf tournament and the scholarship, WCC and the AWF are excited to announce that the scholarship will expand and also be available to eligible WCC students pursuing careers as first-responders (police, fire, and rescue).

“WCC enjoys hosting the annual golf tournament and appreciates the scholarship that honors Dr. Thomas L. Barnes,” said Dr. Dean E. Sprinkle, WCC president. “As the scholarship grows, we are pleased that the Barnes family is expanding the scope of the scholarship to be able to assist WCC students who are training to be first responders.”

Students may apply for scholarships for Fall 2024 at https://www.wcc.vccs. edu/scholarships.

parents face child care challenges

Working parents in Wythe County face a challenge in finding care for their children, according to a recent report from EO, formerly the program arm of the United Way of Southwest Virginia.

According to the report, about 75 percent of all children in Wythe 5 years old and younger – 997 -have parents in the work force. In all there are 1,327 children 5 and younger in the county.

Serving that need are 17 child care providers, according to EO. Along with nine child care centers, there is one family day home, a head start program and six VPI programs.

Seven of the child care providers are licensed to serve a maximum of 475 children. Four religiously exempt providers can serve a total of 182 children. There are 94 VPI program slots through Wythe schools.

Drilling down further, five of the

See CHILD, Page 13

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PAGE 9

July/August 2024

Star grapplers packing for E&H

By Zach Cooley A star wrestler at George Wythe High School who just graduated May 24 will not be giving up the mat anytime soon.

Zane Anthony Perkins has just signed with Emory & Henry College as a member of their wrestling team.

For Perkins, wrestling is more than just a sport.

“Wrestling has meant so much to me,” he says. “It’s taught me self-discipline and my true limits as a person. It has made me into who I am today.”

Perkins says becoming a Wasp will be an easy transition from being a Maroon.

Emory gave him the small town feel that his native hometown of Wytheville has always provided. He explained the connection he felt with his professors and coaches.

“Emory & Henry felt like home,” Perkins explained.

“It gave me a small town, one on one feel with schooling and my professors. I really connected with the coach and the wrestling side is a family atmosphere.”

Just as the ethics of wrestling has impacted the 18-year-old and has helped shaped him as the man he is becoming, he wants to have the same impact on other young wrestlers. He described his desire to mentor young athletes, as his mentors have done for him, saying he wants to help

make the Emory & Henry wrestling program just as noteworthy as he has done with the George Wythe sport in his hometown.

Based on his success as a high school athlete, Perkins is certain to be an asset to the collegiate athletic organization.

“I want to make an impact on the program and become the best possible person I can be,” he noted hopefully.

During his freshman year, Perkins placed fourth in both the state and regional championship tournaments.

As a sophomore, he placed second in regionals, while taking first place as a junior

and placing fifth in statewide competition. As a senior, Perkins again took fourth in the state of Virginia while his wrestling excellence placed him second in regionals in his 150-pound weight class.

Perkins completed his high school wrestling career with an impressive overall record of 116 wins and 20 losses.

Joining Perkins will be recent Rural Retreat High School graduate and star athlete Odell Stroupe.

As a senior in the 165-pound weight class, Stroupe was the Virginia state champion and regional runner up. Also as a senior, he placed second in the Ru-

ral Retreat Invitational. He also won the Holiday Hammer Classic wrestling tournament in Abingdon.

“We have been participating in that tournament every year since my junior year in high school,” he said of this particular win. “It was a pretty good feeling to win my first-ever placement in that tournament.”

As a junior, he also placed fifth in the state tournament. Despite being a star in virtually every sport for the Indians, Stroupe says wrestling is a clear favorite.

“Wrestling has been a big part of my life,” he explained. “It has shown me a lot of things that has shaped my life, such as how not to quit when things get tough.

It has shown me that no matter how difficult things can get, you can always push through and succeed.”

Signing with Emory & Henry as a collegiate wrestler is his first choice in realizing a lifelong goal.

“Emory & Henry has a personal touch for me,” Stroupe said. “It’s not too far from home.”

George Wythe finishes third in National Guard Cup The VHSL announces its 2023-24 National Guard Cup presented by the Virginia Army National Guard for year-long academic success.

A point system determines the winners based on overall performance in VHSL state championship competitions.

In athletics, first place earns 50 points, second place

earns 45 points, third place earns 40 points, fourth place earns 35 points, fifth place earns 30 points, sixth place earns 25 points, seventh place earns 20 points,

and eighth place earns 15 points. Schools earning the League’s Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity Award earn 50 points each.

In Class 1, George Wythe wound up in third place.

Eastside won the cup this year.

PAGE 10

July/August 2024

Martha: 4th Entrepreneur makes cool career choice From Page 4

the album at Sidekick Sound Studios under the Music Maker album, also delves into Martha’s juxtaposed love for home as well as traveling the world.

“Sometimes you need the road and the opportunity to see the world,” she noted.

“Sometimes, you need the safety of home.”

The album has an old-time atmosphere and features a classic cover “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?”

“My friend Jonathan Brown does a great Chet Atkinsstyle guitar on that one,” she said. “We tried to pay homage to the great sentimentality of the original songs.”

“This album is for all of the dreamers out there,” Martha says. “The women on the road. The ones leaving and the ones coming home.”

Out In La La Land was recorded at Sidekick Sound Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, and features a posse of legendary session musicians, such as Lillie Mae Rische on harmony vocals, Jay Weaver on bass, Chris Scruggs on steel guitar, Mark Thornton on electric guitars, and several others who lend their talents to Spencer’s throwback country sound.

“I grew up with a lot of old-time mountain music,” Martha said in a press release when asked about the evolution of her sound on Out In La

La Land. “My mom always sang a lot of old country songs, George Jones, and Dolly Parton. So that’s what I grew up singing. I guess it’s pretty natural. It’s what I like.

So, I think I’ve got a little bit of that sound in there, too. It’s got a lot of who I am reflected in it.”

Martha believes in staying true to herself, which she says she clearly reflects with her songs.

“It’s all about dancing to the beat of your own drum,” she offers. “It’s about doing what you love.”

She also credits her parents, who were also music teachers, for her solid musical background.

“I’m very grateful to have had a family with a musical background,” Martha noted. “I’m proud to be from the mountains of Southwest Virginia.”

Meanwhile, she will be busy traveling the globe in support of Out In La La Land.

“There’s a lot of playfulness in the album,” she added. “I’m a very playful person.”

“I don’t care about living forever,” she said, quoting a lyric from another song, “Woman on the Road,” from the new album. “As long as I can live the way I want to.”

Spencer and company will be joined at the July 4 Celebration and Street Festival by Della Mae and Shadowgrass.

By Zach Cooley

Kim Brooks is particularly happy with her eldest son Gavin’s choice of career.

Since moving to Rural Retreat a year ago with his mom and 19-year-old sister, Molly, Gavin has become quite a popular fixture within the community.

Gavin’s Frozen Treats offers everything from hand-dipped ice cream to prepackaged Spongebob ice cream bars and ice cream sandwiches. Gavin also has a brother named Gage, 23, who lives in Johnson City, Tennessee.

The 25-year-old graduate of Abingdon High School, who grew up in Damascus, was born with Down syndrome. He was not permitted to attend the same school

as his siblings, as Washington County only provides special education at one hub school.

Nevertheless, Gavin was born with an unfailing drive to work and establish his own career.

Considered a high-functioning adult compared to most with his condition, Gavin has wanted to

have a job ever since his graduation, even though he could have remained in the school system until age 21.

“It was the issue of keeping him safe that held me back from helping him get a job,” admit-

See COOL,Page 13

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July/August 2024

Puzzle Place Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

Copyright 2024 by The Puzzle Syndicate

Nurse passes exams Wythe County Community Hospital is proud to announce its Infection Preventionist, Erica Bobbitt recently passed the Certification in Infection Prevention and Control board exam.

The CIC credential identifies healthcare professionals who have demonstrated mastery in knowledge of infection prevention and control by sitting for and passing the certification exam. This credential signifies

a commitment to best practices in infection prevention and control, ultimately leading to improved patient care.

Bobbit spent months intensely studying and preparing for the CIC exam. "I pursued this certification to have a more solid foundation and understanding of Infection Control and Epidemiology. I feel very proud to be a part of the WCCH family."

Forgotten Folks

We’re turning back time for this installment of mountain music, looking at some folks who have been largely forgotten by time but shouldn’t have been.

Starting us off, hailing from Dublin, Virginia, is Isaac Robinson, better known as Ikey “Banjo” Robinson.

Born July 28, 1904, Banjo Ikey died on Oct. 25, 1990.

He moved to Chicago at 22 years old and fell in with the likes of Jelly Roll Morton, Clarence Williams and Jabbo Smith.

Listen Online

Scan the QR Code below with your smartphone camera.

Robinson, who is shared here with “My Four Reasons,” a song he reportedly wrote in jail, and “Rock Me Mama,” which released in 1929 was one of the first songs to use the term “rock” on the way to the formation of rock-n-roll.

Robinson disappeared from the public view, largely, when swing came into fashion, but he was “rediscovered” in the 1970s and reunited with Jabbo Smith for a European tour.

Following Robinson is Horton Barker, who was born blind in Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee, just outside of Damascus.

He attended the School for the Deaf and Blind in Staunton, where he picked up an incredible repertoire of old songs.

Barker, who was born Aug. 23, 1889, performed at folk festivals in Whitetop and was recorded by famed folklorist Alan Lomax in 1937. He was recorded again by Sandy Paton in 1962, when he was in his early 70s. When he was 75, he appeared on stage at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.

Barker died Aug. 12, 1973.

Here you’ll hear Barker’s tenor on “The Gypsy’s Wedding Day” and “The Farmer’s Curst Wife.”

Up third is a pair of brothers born and raised on a farm in Ashe County, North Carolina, with fiddling running through their blood.

Frank and Edd Blevins recorded as the Tar Heel Rattlers and later joined up with Jack Reedy, performing as the Southern Buccaneers.

The brothers played professionally across the region, often with Fred Miller on the banjo. In 1927, the trio audi-

tioned for Columbia music in West Jefferson, North Carolina, and sent down to Atlanta, where they laid down six sides that first year, including two originals – “I’ve Got No Honey Babe Now” and “Old Aunt Betsy.”

As you’re listening to “I’ve Got No Honey Babe Now” and “Fly Around My Pretty Little Miss”, remember that Frank is fiddling and singing on these cuts as a 16-year-old boy.

Post Depression, the brothers moved to Marion, Virginia, (where they hooked up with Jack Reedy). Frank gave up fiddling and playing after the deaths of his brother and Reedy within a couple years of one another.

The next group never really faded into obscurity, but they somehow do get forgotten somehow. We’re talking about legendary banjo picker Wade Ward and his brother Fields Ward from Independence, teaming up with Crockett Ward, Eck Dunford and Doc Davis to become The Bogtrotters.

The band was one of the most enduring in American history, becoming the house band at the Galax Fiddlers Convention.

Finding the Bogtrotters on Spotify is tough, so here’s Wade Ward on “Cumberland Gap” and Eck Dunford and Fields Ward joining Ernest “Pop” Stoneman with “Ain’t the Trouble in Mind.”

Last but certainly not least, we go down to Kingsport, Tennessee, to meet Cripple Clarence Lofton. Born with a limp sometime around the final years of the 1890s, Lofton began his career, despite the limp, as a tap dancer and transitioned to a boogie-woogie piano player, eventually finding his fame in Chicago.

Apparently Lofton was a force of nature when he performed, banging on keys, singing, whistling, snapping his fingers and stomping his feet, playing behind his back.

While cutting records, Lofton blayed with Big Bill Broonzy, Red Nelson and others, retiring in the late 1940s and dying of a blood clot in 1957.

Here you’ll hear Lofton’s “I Don’t Know” and “Strut That Thing.”

PAGE 12

July/August 2024

Go: Calendar of Events

From Page 5

out the rest of the story as "Thelma” plays at the Millwald on July 25, 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. each night and for a 2 p.m. matinee on July 27. Tickets on sale now at https:// ci.ovationtix.com/36798/ production/1204980or by calling276-284-2958.

July 26 to Sept. 8 Wohlfahrt Haus: “The Motown Sound” revue is back to move and groove through the hits of Motown from Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Drifters, The Jackson 5, The Supremes, and more! Join us for a non-stop party with some of the best music ever produced.

Tuesday, Aug. 6 Tourism Summit: The fifth annual Celebrate Tourism Summit will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 6, in Wytheville.

The event invites tourism and hospitality professionals, Southwest Virginia leaders, and business owners to participate in a series of sessions each year at the Wytheville Meeting Center. The workshops provide attendees with new information on emerging trends and industry-based insights to promote increased travel and visitor spending in the region. The event is sponsored by Visit Wytheville, Virginia Tourism Corporation, and Friends of Southwest Virginia.

In recognition of the outstanding work and contributions in advancing the Southwest Virginia Tourism Industry, Friends of Southwest Virginia is pleased to announce the 2024 Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards. With categories re-

flecting tourism marketing, visitor services, events, and leadership within the industry, the Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards celebrate the tourism achievements throughout the region. Nominations are open now through Friday, May 17.

A detailed schedule and opportunity to register for the Celebrate Tourism Summit will be announced soon at https://celebrateswvatourism.com.

Friday Aug. 9 Lincoln Theatre: William Lee Golden is a shining example of a life well-lived. A true American original, the longtime Oak Ridge Boy is also a solo recording artist, painter, and photographer. He is a member of both the Country and Gospel Music Halls of Fame as well as a member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry. William Lee Golden is easily recognizable by his long, flowing beard and his distinctive bass-baritone voice. These days the 82-year-old icon enjoys the contentment that comes from a balanced life. He’s won nearly every possible award for music as well as the love of a good woman and revels in sharing life in his historic Tennessee home with his wife, Simone. Check out William Lee Golden and The Goldens live at the Lincoln, starting at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets are $70, Premium tickets are $59, Orchestra tickets are $59 and Balcony seats are $30.

Saturday, Aug. 10 Lincoln Theatre: Faithfully: A Journey Tribute brings a lineup featuring superstar John Allen on lead vocals, and a cast that

has performed with the best of the best! The guys "FAITHFULLY" re-create the music of Journey and are always a hit with fans for their high energy show, spot-on vocals, and superior performance. Faithfully covers Journey’s material from all eras of the band's career, encompassing the band's biggest hits as well as fan favorites. They have packed venues on each and every show and are known as "The"Journey Tribute. Tickets for the 7 p.m. show range from $41 to $58.

Friday, Aug. 16 Lincoln Theatre: Re-live the 1997 theatrical magic by viewing "Titanic” on the big screen at The Lincoln.

Tickets are $5 at the door.

Millwald Theatre: The Piano Man will come alive at the Millwald from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. as Turnstiles takes the stage.A lifetime fan of Billy Joel’s music, Tony Monaco decided to pay homage to one of America’s most celebrated singer/songwriters, the original Piano Man. Turnstiles, the show, is now in its second decade entertaining audiences and the demand keeps growing. From their home base in Florida, the band is now expanding its reach and traveling across the United States, performing at theatres, PAC’s and concert venues. Very few performers can capture the energy, style and showmanship that is a Billy Joel show, yet Tony Monaco makes it look effortless, ably supported by his top flight band of musicians.

Sell out performances at venues across the US have become the norm and return engagements commonplace.Faithfully recreating Billy's music with a

totally live band truly sets them apart from the pack!

So, if you love Billy Joel, we promise you will love Turnstiles!

Saturday, Aug. 17 Millwald Theatre: Get ready to giggle. World famous comedian and North Carolina native Jon Reep will be making a stop in Wytheville from 8 to 10 p.m. As a stand-up he’s built a following through his hilarious comedy specials and winning appearance on Last Comic Standing.

As an actor, he’s known for his performances in Eastbound and Down, has appeared in the Tig Notaro series One Mississippi, Black-Ish, and may be best known as "Raymus," from Harold and Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay or as "Hemi Guy” from Dodge’s popular ad campaign.

LincolnTheatre: TRAPT with haunted Tacoma will be live at the Lincoln at 7 p.m. Premium seats are $39, Orchestra seats are $34 and Balcony seating is $29.Enjoy the ultimate rock experience with TRAPT live in concert with special guests Haunted Tacoma!

Get ready to rock out in this epic event. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night of music and energy. Grab your friends and get ready to party at the Lincoln Theatre.

Marion Downtown: The final cruise-in of the summer comes to the farmers market pavilion from 6 to 9 p.m. on the corners of Chestnut and Cherry streets. Deadman’s Hand will provide entertainment.

Saturday, Aug. 24 Lincoln Theatre: Landslide – A Tribute to Fleet-

wood Mac promises totake you on a ride back in time to an era when the greatest music in rock was being made and the careers of the legends we all love today were born! Paying homage to one of the greatest and most popular bands in music history, Landsliderecreates the hits from yesteryear, taking fans on an electric journey through Fleetwood Mac’s incredible catalog of music, including the hits from their solo-careers. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $33 for Premium seating, $25 for Orchestra seating and $20 for balcony seating.

Millwald Theatre: Wytheville native and banjo picker extraordinaire Sam Gleaves will be at the Millwald at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 24 for an album release party. Joining Gleaves on stage will be Josh Goforth and Hasee Ciaccio.

From touring in Asia and Europe to showcasing his talents throughout the United States, Gleaves

combines the old time music that he learned at home in Southwest Virginia with original songs that tell modern Appalachian stories.

Born and raised in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Ciaccio is a skilled, driving upright bassist, a captivating singer, and a member of leading roots music ensembles. A native of Madison County, North Carolina, Goforth is a highly accomplished storyteller and acoustic musician playing close to 20 different instruments.

Secure your seat at https://ci.ovationtix. com/36798/performance/11483452.

Saturday, Sept. 7 Millwald Theatre: The Millwald Theatre will honor the past and present with a McPeak Brothers Tribute show on Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m. The tribute show will feature the Larry McPeak Tribute Band with opening act Jaelyn Taylor.

Solution to Crossword:

July/August 2024

Make it a happy and calm Fourth for all With the Fourth of July either just around the corner or just past, depening on when you're reading this, it's important to remember that while we humans enjoy the festivities, our furry friends may not have the same experience. Fireworks, loud parties, and crowds can be stressful and frightening for animals, leading to various reactions, from mild anxiety to severe

distress.

To ensure the comfort and safety of our beloved pets during this holiday season, experts recommends the following tips: Create a comfortable space: Set up a cozy and familiar area for your pet, ideally in the quietest part of your home, with their favourite toys, blankets, and treats. This can help reduce their anxiety and provide a

Child: Report From Page 8

providers serve in fants, eight serve toddlers, and 13 serve pre-schoolers, meaning that only 29 percent of the providers in the county serve children under 2.

The total capacity to serve the potential need of 997 is 751, the report said.

Cost for child care in Wythe is approximately $7,800 per year.

A survey conducted by the United Way of employers had seven respondents. Most employers didn’t report challenges in hiring, but all of those surveyed reported employees missing work due to child care issues, some as often as on

sense of security.

Keep them occupied: Provide interactive and distracting activities for your pets, such as treat-dispensing toys or new chew toys, to help take their mind off the external noises and stimuli.

Stay with your pet: If possible, remain with your pet during the festivities. Your presence can help calm them, and by staying calm yourself, you can

a monthly or weekly basis, the report said.

Though none of the employers offered child care benefits, 86 percent reported that if financial assistance was available they would consider taking part in it, particularly by offering tuition assistance or child care stipends.

Wythe County has a population of 28,290.

Cool: Gavin's Treats From Page 11

ted his mom, a native of Martin County, Kentucky. “He wanted to go straight into the workforce.”

However, that didn’t stop Gavin from volunteering at myriad jobs, including part-time custodian at Rye Valley Elementary School and at the Abingdon Food Bank. Even though he could not be a student at Holston High School with his brother

and sister, Gavin also served as the high school mascot for nine years.

“Gavin is very capable of being a grocery store bag boy or restaurant busboy,” Kim Brooks noted. “However, if someone lures him to their car or comes in on him in the restroom, he doesn’t know that could be dangerous.”

Nevertheless, Gavin approached managers at fast food restau-

rants and gas stations expressing interest in employment. Despite a few callbacks, Gavin’s mom was concerned for her son’s safety.

However, after attending his sister’s travel ball games, he would witness children being served from ice cream trucks and decided that would be his calling.

As fate would have it,

See GAVIN,Page 14

reassure them that everything is alright.

Exercise them beforehand: Take your dog for a long walk or provide extra playtime for your cat earlier in the day. This can help tire them out, making them more likely to rest or sleep through the peak hours of celebrations.

Use calming aids: Consult your veterinarian about using calming pheromone diffusers, collars, or natural

supplements to help reduce your pet's anxiety during this stressful time.

Identify your pet: Ensure your pet's tags and microchip information are up to date in case they escape due to fear. This increases the chances of a safe return.

Consider a quiet getaway: If your pet is highly sensitive to noise, consider taking a trip to a quieter location during the holi-

day. A calm camping trip or a peaceful cabin retreat can ensure both your pet's comfort and your peace of mind.

By following these tips, pet owners can help minimize their furry companions' stress and create a safer environment for them to navigate the Fourth of July celebrations. Remember, a happy and relaxed pet makes for a happier celebration for all.

ER HEA M M T SU KEEP YOUR PETS COOL & COMFY THIS SUMMER

SHADY SPOTS OFFER LITTLE PROTECTION ON HOT DAYS, AND MOVE WITH THE SUN. A CAR CAN OVERHEAT EVEN WHEN THE WINDOWS HAVE BEEN CRACKED AN INCH OR TWO.

YOUNG, OVERWEIGHT, OR ELDERLY ANIMALS, OR THOSE WITH SHORT MUZZLES OR THICK OR DARK COLORED COATS ARE MOST AT RISK FOR OVERHEATING.

PAGE 13

EVEN IF THE TEMPERATURE OUTSIDE IS ONLY 70°, THE INSIDE OF YOUR CAR MAY BE AS MUCH AS 30 DEGREES HOTTER!

WITHIN JUST 30 MINUTES, THE CAR INTERIOR CAN CLIMB FROM 85° TO 120°.

PAGE 14

Gavin: From Page 11

a March 2024 visit to her hometown in Kentucky would convince Kim to help realize her son’s dream when her aunt’s neighbor had a bus for sale. After explaining to her son all the job would entail and much prayerful consideration, Kim decided to buy the bus. She and Gavin spent March and April properly renovating the vehicle into Gavin’s ice cream truck and obtaining all necessary permits.

Then, on May 11, Gavin was hired as a vendor at a Dublin festival.

“Watching him at that event talking to people and handing them ice cream, I knew I had done the right thing,” Brooks reflected. “I knew this was his calling.”

Gavin has received tremendous support from his home communities of Abingdon and Damascus, as well as throughout the local communities of Wytheville and Rural Retreat. On Wednesday, June 12, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gavin will be appearing at Wythe Family Dentistry.

“We have been so blessed and are in awe of the outpouring of support throughout Southwest Virginia,” she added. “Even though we are not originally from here, we have been embraced as one of Southwest Virginia’s own.”

As if Gavin’s career is not inspiring enough, he is a 16-time gold medalist on the state level as a Special Olympics swimmer. National competitors are chosen by lottery once you are a gold medalist. On June 7 and 8, Gavin competed for his 17th gold medal while swimming at Richmond University in the state capital.

He trains heavily for four consecutive months out of the year, despite being in the pool year-round.

“Gavin is blessed to have the innocence and purity to see the good in all people,” his mom stated. “As adults, we forget to put others first and look out for ourselves. Gavin wants his teammates to win more than himself.”

Kim says that Gavin’s siblings are better children for having a disabled brother.

“Inclusion is not just for the benefit of the disabled person,” she offered in closing. “Inclusion is for everyone because it teaches you that all people are human beings who deserve a chance at a good life.” For information or to book Gavin for your next event, call 304-416-4715 or visit Gavin’s Frozen Treats on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61559424005516.

July/August 2024

Football season penciled in

Though the summer heat is continuing to build, the Virginia High School League gave us an early taste of fall, releasing a first look at the high school football schedule. The VHSL notes that games could change before the season is finalized.

Wythe County football kicks off with the always classic rivalry between Fort Chiswell and Rural Retreat on Aug. 30, with the Pioneers hosting this year. Meanwhile George Wythe kicks off its season in the traditional way facing off against the always fearsome Radford Bobcats at home.

Bland County will play away at Craig County.

Fort Chiswell remains home standing on Sept. 6, welcoming the Floyd Buffaloes. GW has a bye week scheduled for Sept. 6. Rural Retreat welcomes the Mustangs from Eastern Montgomery.

George Wythe’s schedule doesn’t get any easier in the third week, as the Maroons travel to Graham.

Fort Chiswell has a bye week scheduled for Sept. 13. Rural Retreat will play at Grayson County.

Bland County takes on Phelps, Kentucky, at home.

The Fort finally hits the road on Sept. 20, taking on Tazewell.

George Wythe is also on the road, taking on Carroll County.

Rural Retreat has a bye week scheduled for Sept. 20.

George Wythe will make the short trip down Interstate 81 to challenge Rural Retreat on Sept.

27. Fort Chiswell remains on the

Downtown organization named gamechanger Downtown Wytheville received this year’s entrepreneurial gamechanger award for its Grow with Good program.

The honor was bestowed by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and Virginia Main Street at the Virginia Economic Developers Association summer meeting.

road, playing at Eastern MontOn Nov. 8, Fort Chiswell will close its regular season at home, gomery.

The Fort plays at Parry McCluer welcoming Giles. George Wythe on Oct. 4. Galax will pay a visit to closes with a road game against George Wythe. Rural Retreat will Auburn. Rural Retreat will travel travel down to Patrick Henry to to Honaker to close out its regutake on the Rebels. Bland will be lar season. Bland County will be on the road to Twin Valley. on the road, taking on Montcalm, Fort Chiswell returns home on West Virginia.

Oct. 11 to take on the Grayson County Blue Devils. George Wythe will take to the road to take on Giles. .The Indians will play host to Lebanon.

On Oct. 18, Fort Chiswell will challenge the Eagles at Auburn. George Wythe will make the long trek to Norton to face off with the J.I. BurEstimates Are ton Raiders. Rural Retreat will Always Free! host Chilhowie.

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PAGE 15

July/August 2024

Chuck and Mary Al’s Girls

For the George Wythe Maroons, the 2023 girls tennis season ended on the courts at Virginia Tech with a bittersweet taste.

A team of five seniors and one junior had taken the GW team to the state finals and ended with an emotional loss but a devastating blow to the program.

Losing five starters is more than a rebuilding year, it is a restart.

In addition to losing all of the seniors, the team was dealt with a final blow that the only returning player, Payton Rigney, would be out for the entire season due to a shoulder injury.

No returning players sounds like a recipe for failure, but not at George Wythe.

Often programs sit back in a rebuilding year and are complacent and noncompetitive with the crutch that the expectations are not that high.

This is not the case in Wytheville, and not the expectation of coaches Mary Alice Watson and Charles “Chuck” Johnson.

Tennis matches are unlike most sport ing events; there is no cheering crowd or large bleachers full of spectators.

Generally, it is just the coaches, the players, and a few parents and family members.

The basics of high school tennis can be summed up quickly.

It is a team sport but there are six seeded players. To be seeded the players have

matches between each other to determine the top six. They are then paired with one another to form doubles partners. During a match, the players have singles matches and then doubles for a total of nine matches and the best team will have five or more wins.

It is often a long match and sometimes the players are on the court for more than four hours to determine a winner.

The season wears down the body and joints are inflamed, muscles are sprained, blisters come and go, and the game goes on.

Sometimes the seeded players move up or down to make for better play and always push to have the best team possible. Coaches are only able to talk

to the players on special breaks between matches and parents and friends are not allowed to talk to the kids. Very different than any other sport.

The coaches are the only ones to give words of encouragement, tips for how to overcome, or even fill up a water bottle. A short 90 second conversation through a chain link fence can either encourage and invigorate a player or cause them to implode and further lose confidence.

Rigney recalls a match last year against Lebanon where she was down 5-1 and both Coach Johnson and Mary Alice were able to talk her down from being so hard on herself and turn the match around to a win.

To most folks, re-

tirement means an umbrella drink by the pool on a sunny afternoon or a lazy day in the shade taking in the time. Chuck Johnson isn’t one of those. Every afternoon in the spring you can find Chuck with his tennis team and Mary Alice working on fundamentals and strategies. He organized a workday this year to repair cracks and lines on the aging playing surface on the George Wythe campus.

Not only coaching players, but coaching parents and siblings on how to properly repair a crack with the right

consistency of grout.

Chuck knows that hard work is required in life and in tennis; he instills that in the girls and demands respect that will go with the athletes no matter where they end up in life.

He doesn’t ask for any recognition, but gives it to the girls.

Through his generosity he has also created a scholarship, The Chuck Johnson Honorary Girls Tennis Scholarship, that will continue his legacy for many years to come.

The first recipient will be Payton Rigney

who will have the opportunity to play tennis this fall at Roanoke College.

At most matches there are two chairs set up on the sidelines for Chuck and his wife, Lee. Like her husband, Lee also cares about the children in our area and is usually right by the court. Lee Johnson is responsible for bringing the nursing program to Wythe County schools and she is always looking after the girls and making sure that everyone is taken care of.

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July/August 2024

E&H: Grapplers From Page 9

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D

Of his collegiate wrestling goals, Stroupe says he wants to further his knowledge of wrestling and hopes to improve as an athlete, which will hopefully include future participation in NCAA Championships. He will be studying exercise science with aspirations of being an athletic trainer.

“I can work with my hometown wrestlers and help them when they become injured, as I have been,” he says. “On the side, I would like to work as a ref or trainer for local wrestling tournaments.”

Stroupe started his senior year in wrestling with a broken hand he sustained during football sea-

son.

“I had 60 pounds of strength in my right hand, whereas I had 110 in my left,” he stated. “It wasn’t until I hurt my knee that I realized how important the field of athletic training was and that there was not a lot of people in it. It was something I could see myself doing.”

Stroupe named previous coaches Rick Boyd, Brian Gibson, Caleb Rouse and Daniel Crockett as his wrestling mentors. He also mentions his little Kallie Stroupe, whom he says he could hear cheering for him over the roaring crowds during every competition.

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