Switzerland of Ohio Local School Board Meets, Recognizes RHS Golf Team

by Martha Ackerman
General Manager/Editor

Students were honored, questions asked and an executive session was held  during  the Switzerland of Ohio Local School District board meeting Oct. 21.

Questions arose pertaining to the school projects. Board member Ron Winkler questioned why contractors aren’t using local supplies, in particular concrete. It was noted that the contractors felt that the local businesses did not have enough trucks to provide the amount of concrete needed at the Beallsville site when footers were poured. 

Winkler also added that he had given local contractors papers to fill out to be considered for various supplies for the projects but only Troy Kemp of Woodsfield True Value had completed the paperwork. It was noted that the contract with OSFC and the school district states that it has to be five percent EDGE certified. EDGE establishes goals for state agencies, boards and commissions in awarding contracts to certified EDGE eligible businesses. An EDGE participant must be a small socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprise owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are Ohio residents. 

In response to another question about school construction budgets … “People need to understand that each school has its own budget,” said SOLSD administrative assistant George Richardson. He noted that if one school runs over budget it can be taken from an already established contingency fund. The money designated to each school is used for that school. The money cannot be used on another school.

It was also reiterated that if the renewal levy should fail, it’s the students who will lose. The residential and agricultural taxpayers will be paying the same amount of taxes. It is a state mandated 20 mills to which each district must adhere. If the levy passes, everything remains the same; there is no increase and no decrease for anyone. If it fails, the kids and the school district will lose approximately $432,000 each year.

The River High School Golf Team members and Coach Bob Cain were recognized during the meeting. River’s golf team earned the OVAC AA title and Zack Wax, who was unable to attend, was recently named captain of the All-Times Leader golf team and was the first Pilot golfer to compete at the state meet since 1991.   Coach Bob Cain, who was named Times Leader Coach of the Year, noted that the team had set all kinds of school records. Attending the board meeting were Jason Miller, Jesse Merckle, Samantha Knowlton and Nate Schultheis. “Jesse Merckle I believe is the only golfer in Ohio Valley history who scored a double eagle,” said the coach. “Nate, a left hander, averaged 44.” Senior Samantha Knowlton was the only girl in the Ohio Valley to make 1st Team on a boys’ team. She was also honored as Academic All-State. Zack was the second RHS golfer who made it to state competition. 

“He’s done an outstanding job in lots of areas. It’s been an historic year for River golf,” said the 17-year coach. The team shot the lowest score in nine holes in RHS history since 1977, players averaged 35 and they won 91.3 percent of the matches, winning 40-2 in dual matches and the team was 80-9 overall.

Also recognized were Alaina Hogue and Gate Roth, Ohio Valley Community Credit Union’s 50th anniversary poster contest winners.

It was noted that a soccer official, who officiated a number of games was so impressed with the Monroe Central soccer players, coaches and fans that he submitted a recommendation for their consideration for an Ohio Athletic Sportsmanship Award.

Kassie Anderson, principal at Woodsfield Elementary, reported on a program, Rachel’s Challenge, that had been presented to elementary and high school students. She said the student response was very positive and Rachel’s Challenge clubs were being formed. 

It was reported that officials are looking at property for Hannibal bus garage.

Student mother Jody Miller asked the board to review its policy in regard to Senate Bill 311 regarding physical education requirements. She said that in other districts students involved in marching band and sports are not required to take physical education because of the time entailed in sports. She said sometimes if students didn’t have to take phys ed, it would allow those students involved in band and sports to pick up another credit course.

Melissa Stimpert, a Monroe Central senior, gave those present an update on what is happening at her school. She noted that two Monroe Central students are BPA Region 5 officers. Kennan Hamilton is president and Lizzie Casto, vice-president.

The board went into executive session to consider compensation.

River High School’s 2010 Golf Team was recognized at the Oct. 21 SOLSD board meeting. Members of the 2010 OVAC AA championship golf team are shown, from left: Jason Miller, Jesse Merckle, TL Coach of the Year Bob Cain, Nate Schultheis and Samantha Knowlton.

BMW Z3 and Z4 Drivers Experience Monroe Roads 

By Martha Ackerman
General Manager/Editor

Vroom! Vroom! They were stopping at McDonald’s in Woodsfield ... Approximately 32 BMW Z3s and Z4s traveled Monroe County’s twisty turny roads of State Routes 26, 556, 536, 78 and 800 on Oct. 16 for their 12th annual Pumpkin Run. It was one of the day trips taken by this group that chooses a route once a month from April to October and enjoys the scenery and the open roads.

They came from northern Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania and Michigan. According to Mary McMakin, of Akron, who kinda skirted the question at first, the average age of the drivers is the mid-50s. The cars range from 1997s to her brand new 2010. 

Group members come from all walks of life, some retired, college professors, high school teachers, lawyers, an architect and David Yarish of Cleveland is in the countertop business.

Cindy Reller of Gullivars Travels, near Canton, e-mails over 100 notices for each scheduled event. She gives the meeting place, time and the planned route. “Whoever shows up goes,” she said.

“Local folks were so considerate to our group on Saturday,” said Reller. “Several times fellow travelers would forego their turn at stop signs and wave us through. Others would pull off the road to let us pass at a faster pace. One kind soul even blocked traffic for us as we circled the church to exit the parking lot in one massive group. It’s always a challenge to stay together on our drives. On this 12th Annual Pumpkin Run it was especially challenging. These spontaneous acts of kindness were greatly appreciated.”

They keep in touch during the trip with walkie talkies. The lead car notifies drivers of upcoming problems or stops. If drivers are held up, the others can be notified.

Bob Phillips of Akron re-counted a couple of incidents along the way ... the driver of a pick-up truck pulling a trailer load of stuff didn’t notice that the car in front of him was turning left. According to Phillips, the truck veered off the road to miss the car and all the stuff in the trailer went flying. A 12 point buck followed by a doe crossed in front of one of the cars. “All we do is drive and eat and drive and eat,” joked Phillips.

It’s a lot of fun for these drivers as they zip over country roads, but they also have a cause. Over the years, this group has donated over $25,000 to Make a Wish.  

The Eagles’ parking lot was filled for a photo op as drivers of 32 BMWs converged on the hills of Monroe County Oct. 16. Drivers from northern Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania and Michigan drove Monroe County’s twisty turny roads of State Routes 26, 556, 536, 78 and 800. They stopped at McDonald’s in Woodsfield for lunch.      Photo Submitted

Woodsfield Christmas Festival Planned 

Plans are underway for the 5th annual Woodsfield Christmas Festival with the theme “Angels We Have Heard on High.” The event is set for Saturday, Dec. 4 with lots of fun activities planned.

The day will begin with the annual Breakfast with Santa at the Brown Community Center, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club and Monroe County Help Me Grow.

Special events will follow throughout the day. New this year will be a Christmas Ornament Walk, a fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Woodsfield. Tickets may be purchased that will entitle the ticket holder to go to 10 area businesses and pick up a free ornament during the festival. Businesses participating are: Westfall’s Florist, WesBanco, Modern Hardware, Pat’s Gift Shoppe and Cafe, Farmers Feed and Deli, Monroe County Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club of Woodsfield, Francis Paulus Insurance, Woodsfield Greenhouse and Traditions Restaurant.

Deck the Halls, Walls and Tables fundraiser with a silent auction at the Chamber office and at the open house. People can also vote for the best wreath or table decoration. Awards will be given in each of these categories. If you would like to donate an item to be auctioned, contact any of the festival committee members listed below. The items will be on display at the Chamber office throughout the week of Nov. 29. Proceeds benefit the Secret Santa program.

The Woodsfield Garden Club will be decorating the courthouse for the occasion. A Christmas display will once again be in the City Park, Woodsfield’s little Oglebay.

New this year will be a Christmas program performed by the group Quiet Love at the First Baptist Church.

The Monroe County Courthouse will be filled with crafters and vendors during the festival. Wares will include crafts, candles, jewelry and baked goods.

The annual parade will begin at 6 p.m. with grand marshals Dr. Jay Seidler and Sally Seidler. This annual Christmas festival was the wonderful idea of Sally and organizers of this year’s event want to honor her during the parade. Following the parade will be the lighting of the Christmas tree in front of the courthouse.

Watch for more on this annual Christmas event. Committee members include Ruth Workman, 740-838-1047 (home) or 740-472-5499 (work); Gwynn Stewart, 740-472-9177; and Margie Yoss, 740-472-5484.

Around the Burnside   

It isn’t our position but our disposition that makes us happy.

No one should be afraid of wasting time by learning something he or she is not required to know.

I learned a few weeks ago that a good friend of ours passed away. I know many of you know him. Ed Bode passed away on Aug. 31. When we moved to the county he was the guidance counselor and basketball coach at Skyvue.

He was a graduate of Bethel High School. I’m sure some of yo remember Bethel High School. He was the class A basketball player of the year and attended West Virginia University where he played basketball. He moved from Skyvue to Martins Ferry and Strasburg as counselor and coach and later was principal at Strasburg, Malvern and Indian Valley. When he retired he moved to Murrells Inlet.

Many of us remember Ed and the teams he coached at Skyvue and he was always willing to help any student in the school. We need to remember Ed’s family in our prayers. I understand he had a kidney problem.

Now to more pleasant news. I had two really enjoyable days last week, even if I did have to get up about two hours earlier than I normally do. However, one day I had to drive through fog and just missed a deer that was trying to commit suicide. I laid on my car horn and the deer decided it wasn’t time just yet.

I was invited to Hannibal and Sardis grade schools. I still call them grade schools but I guess now they are elementary schools, to share some stories. I like to tell tall tales and I got to share several.

I hadn’t visited these schools for several years and it was really a treat for me to be around our youth again and we have some of the best.

I was also very happy I was able to take my pet flea Elmer along with me. I didn’t know how he might act in front of all the students. It turned out great although at Hannibal he got a bit scared and wouldn’t come out for the older students. At Sardis it was a different story. Elmer caught the fever and I had trouble getting him to stay in my pocket. He wanted to come out and show off. I finally let him do his thing for both groups. He even did his four loop hop for them. Elmer is back home now, satisfied with himself.

I would like to compliment the students at both Hannibal and Sardis. They were really fun to share stories with. I realize how tough it is to sit on your you know what on the gym floor and not wiggle around. They made it fun to hare stories with them.

Needless to say I really enjoyed the two days. I was reminded by a couple of folks of the excellent activity we used to have for sixth graders. It was called ROE, Resident Outdoor Education. Probably will never be started again but just a personal thought. With all the latest technology planned for our schools it might be a good idea to bring back ROE. Even after all these years I still have some who attended ROE in the sixth grade mention some of the activities they had while attending ROE.

You’ve probably guessed I really enjoyed my visit to Hannibal and Sardis schools. I came away with the thought I did the right thing by voting to renew the upcoming levy.

Halloween is on us again. Trick or treat night and the community center committee and fire department are treating us to a community dinner this evening (28th). No trick or treat when I was of a trick or treat age. We had what we called corn night. We’d go around throwing corn at people’s windows. Yes, we did get to do a few things to call it Halloween but I guess maybe the biggest thing we got to stay out later than we normally did. Now the kids load up on candy and  can’t sit still the next three days.

My atomic clock said it was 31 degrees this morning. Isn’t this too early to have it this cold? Some of the experts tell us we are going to have a mild winter. I don’t know about you but when the frost gets on the pumpkins it’s not long until old man winter starts blowing in. I do not care for winter and to think at one time I really enjoyed winter until I had to carry water to the old cows.

I received an interesting article from a reader, written by a man that really wondered how he lived until he was in his 70s. For example, his menu consisted of fatty meats, pastries made of lard and used the outside toilet in the winter and never caught pneumonia but contracted bronchitis instead. Sound like the good old days?

Life is no better if we worry, life is no better if we hurry. Except, don’t worry, hurry off to church.

Our Readers Write

Dear Friends,

What a gorgeous day Oct. 2 was, a beautiful sunny day that saw temperature rise near 80 degrees. A most perfect day for almost everyone except for the runners who came to Woodsfield to participate in Charlie Kozlesky’s run for Children’s Hospital. These very dedicated runners choose to spend 12 hours running in extremely warm conditions (for runners) to help less fortunate children with their hospital bills. Dehydration was certainly a huge concern, and fortunately no runner became too ill, but there were many upset stomachs, cramps and several bodies full of pain.

As most of you know, Peggy Buckalew has been helping with the run for many years. Over the past few years she has accepted more responsibility working with the run. This year I did very little, and Peggy did most of the work. No one can imagine how much work is involved in an event, until you are in charge, and Peggy did an excellent job this year. I appreciate everything she has done in the past, and all she did for the run this year. I also appreciated Peggy’s husband Tim and son Austin for their help before, during and after the run.

It is hard for first time runners to the race to believe the support we get with the run, knowing that Charlie has been gone from the area for over 16 years. Monroe County has many wonderful and giving people that remember what this event is all about. It is about getting free or decreased medical help for children in need.

Donnie Weber and the Woodsfield Street Department continue year after year to get the course in great shape by filling holes and sweeping the course. Maybe the everyday resident does not see what you do year in and year out, but let me make it very clear that the runners certainly appreciate all your work in preparation for the run. The cooperation of Chuck Hamilton and the Woodsfield Village Police Department in setting up and tearing down the course happens like clock work. The continued cooperation from the Woodsfield Village Council helps make this run possible year after year.

The following people also helped make the 2010 run such a big success. Shirts and jackets were provided for the runners by Ohio Valley Screen Printing and Pyro-Apparel. Food was donated by Riesbeck's, Subway, Woodsfield Methodist Church, Traditions, VFW Ladies Auxiliary, McDonald’s and Jerry Lee’s Pizza. Lora Brock provided a beautiful cake in celebration of runner Mitch Toto and his wife Nancy 50th anniversary. Over night accommodations were provided by The Olive Tree Inn and Dick and Marie Yoss. Volunteer timers were Betty Edgington, Peg Buckalew, Pat Price Johnson, Mary Lou Frieden, Jean Clift, Linda McConnell, Debbie Frye and Kathy McGlone. Martha Ackerman from the Monroe County Beacon provided pictures of the runners who were: Charlie Kozlesky, Dick Sanders, Mitch Toto, Ruta Mazalis, Lori Michener, Chris Benedict, Tom Mays, Mick Schumacher, Bill Potts, Mark Pack and Juston Wickham and walker Ashley Schumacher. Much needed showers were provided by Jay Circosta at the Monroe Central field house after the run. EMA director Phil Keevert provided a trailer for the time keepers.

You always hear someone say, “Charlie’s Run for Children’s Hospital is like a family reunion,” and how very true this is. Many people have been a part of the run for many, many years and they just say every year “whatever you need.” Having that kind of support for such a worthy cause is why I continue to help with the run.

Our prayers are for God to continue to bless each and every one of you for your continued support to help make this run so successful.

In Christian love,
Peggy Buckalew and Pandora Neuhart

Classifieds
■  10-28 Classifieds


OBITUARIES  

NORMAN D. GROVES 
Norman D. Groves, 75, Lewisville, died Oct. 20, 2010 at his home. He was born Aug. 4, 1935 near Woodsfield, a son of the late Darrell Groves and Nellie Simeral Groves.

He was a local mechanic for many years and a retired coal miner at Quarto No. 4. He was also an Army veteran serving from 1958 to 1960.

Surviving are his wife, Dolly Gates Groves, whom he married April 10, 1955; a son Doug Groves of Woodsfield; a daughter, Tammy (Kevin) Groves of Lewisville; a very special grandson, Jesse of Woodsfield; three brothers, Wade and Dean Groves of Woodsfield, and Bill Groves of Somerton; two sisters, Bonnie Gallagher of Barnesville, Twila (Dick) Cline of Graysville; several nieces, nephews and his beloved dog Buddy.

There will be no visitation. Burial at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements by Bauer-Turner Funeral Home, Woodsfield.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.bauerturner.com

STEVE LINDENMEYER
Steve W. Lindenmeyer, 80, Woodsfield, died Oct. 20, 2010 at the West Virginia University Hospital in Morgantown. He was born Aug. 7, 1930 in Cameron, a son of the late Walter and Vesta Stieger Lindenmeyer.

He was a graduate of Woodsfield High School class of 1948 and was a truck driver for 30 years and worked for Swepco Oil Company out of Dallas, Texas. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving during the Korean War in Germany.

Surviving are his wife of 37 years, Ruth Moore Linden-meyer of Woodsfield; two daughters, Pam Lindenmeyer, Venetia (Jim) Lane; four sons, Bill (Lynda) Nixon, Brad (Shari) Nixon, Lance (Angie) LaFollette, Rod(Sally) LaFol-lette; 19 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Glen and Carl Lindenmeyer.

Friends were received Oct. 22 at Bauer-Turner Funeral Home, Woodsfield, where funeral services were held Oct. 23, with Keith Jones officiating. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery, Woodsfield. Military services were conducted by the Belmont Veterans Council.

Condolences may be expressed at: 
www.bauerturner.com

DEBBIE LYNN WINLAND
Debbie Lynn Winland, 52, Sycamore Valley, died Oct. 21, 2010 at Wheeling Hospital due to an extended battle with cancer. She was born July 14, 1958 in Marietta, a daughter of the late William and Nellie Eikleberry Howell.

She was the owner/operator of Nellie’s Diner in Stafford, and had worked for 15 years for RJF International in Marietta. She loved cooking, shopping and travel, but her greatest joy was being a grandma.

Surviving are her husband of 34 years, Donald Winland of Sycamore Valley; two daughters, Melissa (Scott) Wilson of Sycamore Valley and Amanda (John) Nalley of Graysville; 12 brothers and sisters, Kathryn Ruble of Rootstown, Donna (Russell) Nalley of Graysville, Mary “Patsy” (Floyd) Winland of Graysville, Ila Mae “Tootie” (Roy) Winland of Ashland, Wilford (Rose) Howell of Ashland, David Howell of Sardis, John (Joan) Howell of Ashland, Lena (Kenney) Piatt of Lewisville, Connie Gardner of Sardis, Sharon Workman of Woodsfield, Pauline (Larry) Baker of Woodsfield, and Ronald “Bub” (Judy) Howell of Woodsfield; five grandchildren, Tyler Wilson, Jacob Nalley, Katelyn Nalley, Victoria Wilson, Matthew Nalley; father and mother-in-law, Henry and Mary Winland of Sycamore Valley; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant brother, Richard Howell.

Friends were received Oct. 24 at Bauer-Turner Funeral Home, Woodsfield, where funeral services were held Oct. 25, with Brent Roth officiating. Burial was in West Union Cemetery near Sardis.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.bauerturner.com

LAWRENCE R. BROWN 
Lawrence R. (Bill) Brown, 84, West Salem, died Oct. 23, 2010 at Wooster Community Hospital. He was born March 29, 1926 in Fly, the son of the late George and Delia Koher Brown.

He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a heavy equipment operator and was employed for various oil and gas companies. He was a member of the Truth Baptist Church in West Salem. He raised beagles and liked going to flea markets.

Surviving are his wife, Patricia Hosack Brown, whom he married Dec. 31, 1991; 10 special grandchildren, Kyle and Garrett Blake, Chriscia, Chad, Justin, Jamie, Shawna, Shane, Jason and Paige Royse; and a special cousin, Pastor Frank Conley of Sardis.

Friends were received Oct. 26 at Matteson Funeral Home, West Salem. Funeral services will be held Oct. 27, at 1 p.m. at the Truth Baptist Church in West Salem, with Pastors Bradley Ingram and Carlos Browning officiating. Burial will be in Congress Cemetery where military rites will be conducted by James Stevenson American Legion Post 499 of West Salem.

Memorial contributions may be given to a donor of your choice.

BONNIE A.  ANDERSON
Bonnie A. Anderson, 83, died Oct. 17, 2010 at Grants Pass, Oregon. She was born Sept. 15, 1927 in Pender, Nebraska, a daughter of the late William G. Meier and Nellie Moore Meier.

 Except for the last 10 months and a few brief periods spent in Ohio, she and her husband lived the greater part of their married life in California.

She was baptized into Christ on Nov. 21, 1948 at Parkersburg, W.Va., being a member of the Lord’s body for over 62 years. At the time of her death, she was a member of the church at Grants Pass.

She met her husband during WWII.  She was a devoted wife and mother, had a humble spirit and never said anything negative about anyone.

Surviving are her husband of 64 years, Lorrin (Andy) Anderson, whom she married Sept. 7, 1946; two sons,  Kenneth, Tokyo, Japan, Ronald Dean, San Clemente, Calif.; two daughters,  Karen of Grants Pass, Lorelei, Rapid City, S.D., six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, William E. Meier and his wife, Sharon; and step-mother, Mable Baldwin Meier.

Private services were held Oct. 21 at Hull & Hull Mortuary, Grants Pass. Burial followed at Gotcher Cemetery, Williams, Ore.

ELSIE G. BACHMAN
Elsie Gertrude Bachman, 96, Marietta died Oct. 3, 2010. She was born Jan. 7, 1914 in Rinard Mills, a daughter of the late Jacob and Eulala English Salisbury. 

She graduated from Ludlow Rural High School in Bloomfield in 1933. After graduation, she moved to Marietta where she worked at H.M. Schmelzenbach’s Market, Montgomery Ward and as a cook at North Hills Elementary School.

She was a member of the Marietta Bible Center Church and loved to hear the choir sing. She enjoyed cooking, playing games, writing letters, poems and sending cards. She loved visiting with friends and family, traveling to the family’s cabin in W. Va. and reminiscing about the good old “simple” days of her youth. She cherished her faith and family above all else.

Surviving are a daughter, Madelyn (Don) Heslop of Devola; three grandchildren, Deanna (Brian) Martindale of Thornville, Todd (Julie) Heslop of Marietta, Tim Heslop of Pickerington; five great-grandchildren, Camryn and Troy Martindale, Jared, Owen and Leah Heslop; sisters-in-law, Ruth Salisbury of Gallipolis, Mary Salisbury of Woodsfield, Celcia Black of Buckhannon, W.Va., Nellie Thorne of Wadsworth, Gatha Bachman of Elizabethtown, Ky, Lucy Miller of Charleston, W.Va.; brother-in-law, Randolph (Lenora) Bachman of Pickens, W.Va.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph E. Bachman, whom she married Nov. 14, 1945; and two brothers, Victor and Jack Salisbury.

Friends were received Oct. 6 and until time of service on Oct. 7 at McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home, Marietta, with Pastor Myron Guiler officiating. Burial followed in East Lawn Memorial Park.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.msfuneralhome.com