Congratulations!!
Our Champions!
Back to Back Champions! 2 year record 20-1!
The Jayhawks went undefeated in the regular season and won the Huntington Upward 5th/6th Grade basketball tournament championship at River Cities Community Church. Front row, from left, Owen Maynard, Jordan Adkins, Adam Elazab, Tarique Al-Ourani and Nathan Hanna. Back row, from left, coach Greg Hanna, Jack Blackman, Travis Preece, Andy Blackman, Andrew Smith and coach Kelly Steele.
Congratulations Hannas!
Back to Back Champions! 2 year record 20-1!
The Jayhawks went undefeated in the regular season and won the Huntington Upward 5th/6th Grade basketball tournament championship at River Cities Community Church. Front row, from left, Owen Maynard, Jordan Adkins, Adam Elazab, Tarique Al-Ourani and Nathan Hanna. Back row, from left, coach Greg Hanna, Jack Blackman, Travis Preece, Andy Blackman, Andrew Smith and coach Kelly Steele.
Congratulations Hannas!
Congratulations Helen!
Helen Freeman, who teaches theater and debate at Huntington High School, has been named Educator of the Year by the West Virginia American Legion. Freeman founded and ran the Huntington Outdoor Theatre for 20 years outside the classroom and has previously been named Arts Person of the Year by the Herald Dispatch.
Helen Freeman, who teaches theater and debate at Huntington High School, has been named Educator of the Year by the West Virginia American Legion. Freeman founded and ran the Huntington Outdoor Theatre for 20 years outside the classroom and has previously been named Arts Person of the Year by the Herald Dispatch.
Submitted photo Ray Abraham, who turned 90 on March 3, has flipped pancakes for more than 50 years during the Kiwanis Club of East HuntingtonÃs annual pancake festival. ìIÃve had a good time all these years," he said. ìAnd IÃm looking forward to having fun this year, too.
East Huntington Kiwanis Club to host
Pancake Festival
By BOB WITHERS For The Herald-Dispatch Mar 3, 2019
The club's 60th anniversary Pancake Festival takes place from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at New Baptist Church, 610 28th Street. Note the closing time is earlier than in previous years. Some of the "flippers" are getting - uh, well, more mature. Some of them have been there from the beginning, when the event was called "Pancake Jamboree" and the tickets cost a dollar.
Ray Abraham will be 91 by the time the event rolls around. It is estimated that he has flipped more than 120,000 pancakes since joining the group in 1967. As far as anyone knows, Abraham is the only person in West Virginia to have received the Golden Spatula Award.
"I've had a good time all these years," Abraham says. "And I'm looking forward to having a good time this year, too." In addition to Abraham's pancakes, visitors will enjoy the club's link sausages - supplied by the S.S. Logan Packing Co. - and will have the choice of coffee, milk, soda pop or ice water. The Kiwanians will again sell packages of their sausage.
Pancake Festival
By BOB WITHERS For The Herald-Dispatch Mar 3, 2019
The club's 60th anniversary Pancake Festival takes place from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at New Baptist Church, 610 28th Street. Note the closing time is earlier than in previous years. Some of the "flippers" are getting - uh, well, more mature. Some of them have been there from the beginning, when the event was called "Pancake Jamboree" and the tickets cost a dollar.
Ray Abraham will be 91 by the time the event rolls around. It is estimated that he has flipped more than 120,000 pancakes since joining the group in 1967. As far as anyone knows, Abraham is the only person in West Virginia to have received the Golden Spatula Award.
"I've had a good time all these years," Abraham says. "And I'm looking forward to having a good time this year, too." In addition to Abraham's pancakes, visitors will enjoy the club's link sausages - supplied by the S.S. Logan Packing Co. - and will have the choice of coffee, milk, soda pop or ice water. The Kiwanians will again sell packages of their sausage.
Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House Receives
National Recognition
January 31, 2019
HUNTINGTON - Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House is a true Huntington tradition and is considered one of the city's most iconic restaurants. On Wednesday, Jim's was named the 2019 America's Classics winner in the Southeast region by the James Beard Foundation. "This is a really big deal," said Jimmie Tweel Carder, the restaurant's managing owner. "We are thrilled to know that we were selected for this prestigious award."
The James Beard Foundation is a New York City-based national nonprofit culinary arts organization named in honor of James Beard, a food writer, teacher and cookbook author who was also known as the "Dean of American Cookery." Each year since 1998, the James Beard Foundation Awards Committee has recognized the nation's beloved regional restaurants. In the history of the awards program, nobody has ever taken a James Beard medal home to West Virginia. "It's such an honor and very humbling to be the first restaurant in the state to receive this award," Carder said. "We have always prided ourselves in offering friendly and fast customer service. We truly appreciate all of our staff and customers that come here. Without them, this would not have been possible." Hanna Raskin, the foundation's restaurant and chef committee member charged with representing the Southeast, wrote a story on the foundation's website that announced the award.
"What sets Jim's apart is not just its commitment to perpetuating West Virginia's most cherished culinary tradition or its importance to the community, although both of those things matter - as does its strawberry pie, served exclusively around Mother's Day, another West Virginia invention. What makes Jim's a true America's Classics winner is it couldn't be confused with anywhere else in the world, nor could it be recreated," Raskin wrote. Carder says a film crew is coming to Jim's on Thursday, Feb. 21, to film a video to be shown at the foundation's awards ceremony in Chicago on May 6. "My brothers, Larry and Ron, who are also owners of the restaurant, will travel with me to Chicago, and we are really looking forward to it," she said. Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House was started in 1938 by Jim Tweel as Jim's Dairy Bar, selling ice cream cones for a nickel. In 1944 Tweel expanded his business by adding a Spaghetti House next door. The two businesses merged in 1948 and were renamed Jim's Grill and Spaghetti House. In 1962 the restaurant was remodeled and formally changed its name to Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House. "I never though Jim's would get into the national spotlight, and I know my dad and mom would be tickled that what they started more than 80 years ago is getting this type of attention," Carder said.
To read Raskin's full story, go online to www.jamesbeard.org/blog/the-power-of-strawberry-pie-and-a-smile.
National Recognition
January 31, 2019
HUNTINGTON - Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House is a true Huntington tradition and is considered one of the city's most iconic restaurants. On Wednesday, Jim's was named the 2019 America's Classics winner in the Southeast region by the James Beard Foundation. "This is a really big deal," said Jimmie Tweel Carder, the restaurant's managing owner. "We are thrilled to know that we were selected for this prestigious award."
The James Beard Foundation is a New York City-based national nonprofit culinary arts organization named in honor of James Beard, a food writer, teacher and cookbook author who was also known as the "Dean of American Cookery." Each year since 1998, the James Beard Foundation Awards Committee has recognized the nation's beloved regional restaurants. In the history of the awards program, nobody has ever taken a James Beard medal home to West Virginia. "It's such an honor and very humbling to be the first restaurant in the state to receive this award," Carder said. "We have always prided ourselves in offering friendly and fast customer service. We truly appreciate all of our staff and customers that come here. Without them, this would not have been possible." Hanna Raskin, the foundation's restaurant and chef committee member charged with representing the Southeast, wrote a story on the foundation's website that announced the award.
"What sets Jim's apart is not just its commitment to perpetuating West Virginia's most cherished culinary tradition or its importance to the community, although both of those things matter - as does its strawberry pie, served exclusively around Mother's Day, another West Virginia invention. What makes Jim's a true America's Classics winner is it couldn't be confused with anywhere else in the world, nor could it be recreated," Raskin wrote. Carder says a film crew is coming to Jim's on Thursday, Feb. 21, to film a video to be shown at the foundation's awards ceremony in Chicago on May 6. "My brothers, Larry and Ron, who are also owners of the restaurant, will travel with me to Chicago, and we are really looking forward to it," she said. Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House was started in 1938 by Jim Tweel as Jim's Dairy Bar, selling ice cream cones for a nickel. In 1944 Tweel expanded his business by adding a Spaghetti House next door. The two businesses merged in 1948 and were renamed Jim's Grill and Spaghetti House. In 1962 the restaurant was remodeled and formally changed its name to Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House. "I never though Jim's would get into the national spotlight, and I know my dad and mom would be tickled that what they started more than 80 years ago is getting this type of attention," Carder said.
To read Raskin's full story, go online to www.jamesbeard.org/blog/the-power-of-strawberry-pie-and-a-smile.
Dr. Bruce Cassis (far left), of Fayetteville, WV has been elected as vice president of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
Local dentist named vice president of national organization - Fayetteville Tribune
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) installed Bruce L. Cassis, DDS, MAGD, as its new vice president during its annual meeting in Chicago Nov. 2-4.
Dr. Cassis joined the AGD, an association of 40,000 general dentists and dental students, in 1986 and has more than 38 years of experience in the dental industry. As the field of dentistry evolves, Cassis seeks opportunities to make AGD a stronger advocate for general dentists and a resource for the general public.
“I am passionate about continuing education and advocating for policies that help general dentists to provide the best care for their patients,” Cassis said. “Over the course of my career I have believed continuing education to be the source of my successful career in dentistry. I want to ensure all general dentists, especially those entering the field, have access to the resources they need.”
Cassis has served as chair of the AGD Membership Council for the last two years. He joined AGD in 1986 and has served in many leadership roles, beginning with the West Virginia AGD where he served as president for four consecutive years. At the organization’s leadership level, he served as chair of the PACE Council for two years and was the first chair of the Communications Council. He has received his AGD Membership award and most recently was presented the Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition honor.
Cassis is a graduate of West Virginia University School of Dentistry. He continues to practice general dentistry and hospital dentistry full time in Fayetteville.
Active in dental education and organizational dentistry, Cassis is a member of several professional dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, the West Virginia Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He has a mastership from the World Clinical Laser Institute and fellowship from the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, the Academy of Dentistry International and the American College of Dentists.
Cassis has been married to his wife, Evie, for 40 years. Together, they have raised five sons and have eight grandchildren.
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) installed Bruce L. Cassis, DDS, MAGD, as its new vice president during its annual meeting in Chicago Nov. 2-4.
Dr. Cassis joined the AGD, an association of 40,000 general dentists and dental students, in 1986 and has more than 38 years of experience in the dental industry. As the field of dentistry evolves, Cassis seeks opportunities to make AGD a stronger advocate for general dentists and a resource for the general public.
“I am passionate about continuing education and advocating for policies that help general dentists to provide the best care for their patients,” Cassis said. “Over the course of my career I have believed continuing education to be the source of my successful career in dentistry. I want to ensure all general dentists, especially those entering the field, have access to the resources they need.”
Cassis has served as chair of the AGD Membership Council for the last two years. He joined AGD in 1986 and has served in many leadership roles, beginning with the West Virginia AGD where he served as president for four consecutive years. At the organization’s leadership level, he served as chair of the PACE Council for two years and was the first chair of the Communications Council. He has received his AGD Membership award and most recently was presented the Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition honor.
Cassis is a graduate of West Virginia University School of Dentistry. He continues to practice general dentistry and hospital dentistry full time in Fayetteville.
Active in dental education and organizational dentistry, Cassis is a member of several professional dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, the West Virginia Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He has a mastership from the World Clinical Laser Institute and fellowship from the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, the Academy of Dentistry International and the American College of Dentists.
Cassis has been married to his wife, Evie, for 40 years. Together, they have raised five sons and have eight grandchildren.
Employees of Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House from left Dustin Cremeans, Mel Romans, Trish Woody, Kathy Smith, Randi Nash, Bradley Tweel, Mary Dean, Mariah Smith, Kesha Blankenship, Tina English and Reid Palmer.
Jim’s Spaghetti House changes uniforms, hires male waiters
By FRED PACE The Herald-Dispatch fpace@herald-dispatch.com December 9, 2018
HUNTINGTON — Regina Smith of Barboursville said she loves to have lunch at Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House on 5th Avenue when she is Christmas shopping in downtown Huntington.
Smith said as soon as she steps inside the restaurant she can smell the aroma of freshly made spaghetti.
“The spaghetti is my favorite,” she said. “Love their pies too.”
Smith said she did notice a few changes from her last visit to the iconic downtown restaurant.
“They have some male waiters and their uniforms have changed,” she said.
The two changes are the addition of two male waiters and the white dresses formerly worn by the female wait staff have made way to black slacks, white shirts and a green apron.
“To tell you the truth, since they had on white shirts and green aprons, I didn’t really notice the change at first,” Smith said. “I don’t mind the changes, the food is still amazing and the staff is still just as friendly and helpful as anytime I have come in the past.”
The restaurant’s managing owner, Jimmie Tweel Carder, said she didn’t want to make the change in uniforms, but felt it was the best option.
“Last February, I called to order uniforms,” she explained. “We generally get anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000 worth of uniforms at a time and I was told they no longer made that dress. So we got online and checked every available uniform place in this country. We looked long and hard and even got some samples, but nothing was right for various reasons.”
Tweel Carder mulled over putting in a special order for the white dresses because they were such an important part of the restaurant’s history.
“We always had dresses, and my dad prided himself on the dress, because it was unique to Jim’s,” Tweel Carder said.
Trish Woody, a 30-year employee at Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House, said she also tried to help find the restaurant’s traditional white dresses.
“For me, it was hard to give up wearing the white dress after wearing it for 30 years, but we had no choice,” Woody said.
Tweel Carder says she felt the white dresses were part of Jim’s legacy.
“It was part of my dad,” she said. “I have a photo of my mother in the 1940s wearing the dress, so it hurt my heart to have to change the uniforms, but we all made the decision to make the change and move forward. I’m okay with it and these will be the uniforms for years to come now.”
Tweel Carder said one of the reasons she now embraces the change in uniforms is because it paved the way for the restaurant to hire a more diversified staff.
“We felt like we might attract more people to want to work here without the dress,” she said. “That too was part of the decision.”
Dustin Cremeans and Reid Palmer were hired as the first male waiters in the establishment’s history.
“I have been here three months now, and everything is going great,” Palmer said.
Cremeans had been a loyal customer of the restaurant for the past 15 years before being hired.
“I sold my business in March so I could go back to school to get my teaching degree,” he said. “I had free time and worked at Jim’s during Strawberry Pie Week and really enjoyed it. With the uniform change, I talked Jimmie into taking a chance on me as a waiter and it has been a wonderful experience. It’s a great atmosphere here for both the customers and the employees.”
Tweel Carder said it has all worked out well and the feedback from customers has been mostly positive.
“These are two great, hardworking guys and we are so happy to have them,” she said. “Yes, there were a few people that appeared a little upset about it, but they keep coming back. The food and service here outweighs the old uniforms.”
The restaurant has 30 employees, Tweel Carder added.
Jim’s began in 1938 after Jim and Sally Tweel purchased The Kennedy Dairy Store located at 920 5th Ave., which is still the location of the restaurant. They began selling cheeseburgers, ice cream and milkshakes.
In 1944, a man by the name of Roberto Elmoro from Italy stopped in and told Jim he wanted to help him start a spaghetti house. Using Elmoro’s original recipe and expanding the restaurant to include the room next door, The Spaghetti House opened on July 14, 1944.
The restaurant continued to grow, and in 1948, the dairy bar and spaghetti house were combined to become Jim’s Grill and Spaghetti House.
In 1962, Jim expanded again. After some remodeling, the restaurant was given a new sign and its current name, Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House.
Tweel Carder says there are a few things that will never change at the restaurant.
“Regardless your lunch or dinner choice, you'll be served with delicious, quality food that has stood the test of time,” she said.
Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and is closed on Sunday and Monday. More information can be found on the restaurant’s website at www.jimsspaghetti.com.
By FRED PACE The Herald-Dispatch fpace@herald-dispatch.com December 9, 2018
HUNTINGTON — Regina Smith of Barboursville said she loves to have lunch at Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House on 5th Avenue when she is Christmas shopping in downtown Huntington.
Smith said as soon as she steps inside the restaurant she can smell the aroma of freshly made spaghetti.
“The spaghetti is my favorite,” she said. “Love their pies too.”
Smith said she did notice a few changes from her last visit to the iconic downtown restaurant.
“They have some male waiters and their uniforms have changed,” she said.
The two changes are the addition of two male waiters and the white dresses formerly worn by the female wait staff have made way to black slacks, white shirts and a green apron.
“To tell you the truth, since they had on white shirts and green aprons, I didn’t really notice the change at first,” Smith said. “I don’t mind the changes, the food is still amazing and the staff is still just as friendly and helpful as anytime I have come in the past.”
The restaurant’s managing owner, Jimmie Tweel Carder, said she didn’t want to make the change in uniforms, but felt it was the best option.
“Last February, I called to order uniforms,” she explained. “We generally get anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000 worth of uniforms at a time and I was told they no longer made that dress. So we got online and checked every available uniform place in this country. We looked long and hard and even got some samples, but nothing was right for various reasons.”
Tweel Carder mulled over putting in a special order for the white dresses because they were such an important part of the restaurant’s history.
“We always had dresses, and my dad prided himself on the dress, because it was unique to Jim’s,” Tweel Carder said.
Trish Woody, a 30-year employee at Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House, said she also tried to help find the restaurant’s traditional white dresses.
“For me, it was hard to give up wearing the white dress after wearing it for 30 years, but we had no choice,” Woody said.
Tweel Carder says she felt the white dresses were part of Jim’s legacy.
“It was part of my dad,” she said. “I have a photo of my mother in the 1940s wearing the dress, so it hurt my heart to have to change the uniforms, but we all made the decision to make the change and move forward. I’m okay with it and these will be the uniforms for years to come now.”
Tweel Carder said one of the reasons she now embraces the change in uniforms is because it paved the way for the restaurant to hire a more diversified staff.
“We felt like we might attract more people to want to work here without the dress,” she said. “That too was part of the decision.”
Dustin Cremeans and Reid Palmer were hired as the first male waiters in the establishment’s history.
“I have been here three months now, and everything is going great,” Palmer said.
Cremeans had been a loyal customer of the restaurant for the past 15 years before being hired.
“I sold my business in March so I could go back to school to get my teaching degree,” he said. “I had free time and worked at Jim’s during Strawberry Pie Week and really enjoyed it. With the uniform change, I talked Jimmie into taking a chance on me as a waiter and it has been a wonderful experience. It’s a great atmosphere here for both the customers and the employees.”
Tweel Carder said it has all worked out well and the feedback from customers has been mostly positive.
“These are two great, hardworking guys and we are so happy to have them,” she said. “Yes, there were a few people that appeared a little upset about it, but they keep coming back. The food and service here outweighs the old uniforms.”
The restaurant has 30 employees, Tweel Carder added.
Jim’s began in 1938 after Jim and Sally Tweel purchased The Kennedy Dairy Store located at 920 5th Ave., which is still the location of the restaurant. They began selling cheeseburgers, ice cream and milkshakes.
In 1944, a man by the name of Roberto Elmoro from Italy stopped in and told Jim he wanted to help him start a spaghetti house. Using Elmoro’s original recipe and expanding the restaurant to include the room next door, The Spaghetti House opened on July 14, 1944.
The restaurant continued to grow, and in 1948, the dairy bar and spaghetti house were combined to become Jim’s Grill and Spaghetti House.
In 1962, Jim expanded again. After some remodeling, the restaurant was given a new sign and its current name, Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House.
Tweel Carder says there are a few things that will never change at the restaurant.
“Regardless your lunch or dinner choice, you'll be served with delicious, quality food that has stood the test of time,” she said.
Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and is closed on Sunday and Monday. More information can be found on the restaurant’s website at www.jimsspaghetti.com.
West Virginia Governor's School for the Arts 2018
As printed in the Charleston Gazette-Mail
Here's a great article written by Matthew Ayoob from the class of 2018.
Summer arts school a fun learning experience (FlipSide)
By Matthew Ayoob, Charleston Catholic High School
I am anxiously walking into Buskirk Dorm at Marshall University. There is a huge line going out of the door on this hot, humid day. I look around nervously, wondering which of these unknown teenagers in front of me will be my roommate for the next three weeks. It was like my first taste of college, and I would soon find out that this camp would be my higher education in the arts, for I have never taken an art class.
After a few days, now acclimated to the camp, I wake up and grumpily walk down to breakfast in a dazed semiconscious stupor. I see my new friends, who had saved me a seat, waving me down, and I suddenly light up with energy. I grab my food and sit down and in a moment, I find myself laughing about our newly formed inside jokes. Breakfast ends too soon for us, for we are constantly talking, and we head off to our major discipline (mine is studio art).
Ms. Hanna Kozlowski, our instructor, welcomes us, as usual, with a friendly mien. I start working on my project of the day while talking with others in the studio. We leave the studio for one of our famous Starbucks breaks.
After lunch and more studio time, we were off to dinner and then the interdisciplinary (any art sphere other than our own) activity of the night. My group was going to dance class. In a few minutes, I find myself laughing and trying to contort into the dance positions, which are all extremely foreign to me. But by the end of the hour, I was enjoying myself, being out of my comfort zone. The entire camp then goes to the performance of the night, which this time was a professional storyteller. The story is engaging and funny, but I find myself starting to become exhausted from the day’s activities. We have some free time for about an hour, so I meet up with my close friends, and we watched Netflix and talked and laughed for what seemed like forever.
I just described one of the 21 days I had at camp, which helps one realize that the Governor’s School of the Arts (GSA) was an indescribable experience. You are suddenly submerged in the arts with people who are intellectually stimulated by the same realm of enrichment.
My instructor in studio art was extremely qualified and created a healthy teaching environment. I learned countless new techniques and expressed myself in many new ways.
The community and camaraderie is extremely unexpected due to the fact that most students had known none of their peers when they arrived. But being with people from 8 a.m. to around 11 p.m. creates this truly unique dynamic and has enchanting properties. The friendships of three weeks felt — and still feel like — they had been in existence since the beginning of time and were timeless. Such a strong bond is created between the camp holistically.
The environment may have been intimidating at first, being around such talented peers, but in the end that element pushed me to challenge myself and grow intellectually, socially and in my craft. I can easily say that GSA altered my daily life because I now have a strong connection with kids from other schools around the state. I can happily say my friend group has had multiple meetups since the camp ended a month ago.
It’s almost a strange feeling trying to remember who I was before GSA. The person who opened the acceptance letter is not the same person writing this article today. For anyone thinking that this program would just be summer school, it is completely different and does not resemble that at all. An interest in what you are learning about makes all the difference. There is also a ton of time allotted for having fun alongside a plethora of activities.
It was nice for me to leave home, out of my comfortable environment, and meet new people and learn things about my art form. It has almost a sleep-away camp vibe but with so many opportunities. Like this year we went to Chicago and had discipline-oriented events such as getting to see amazing art for those of us that studied studio art. To parallel, for example, the dancers got to attend dance performances and master classes.
I have never been so tired as I was when I arrived home after the three weeks away filled with enriching events. But those tired days were nothing to give up for the amazing experience I had this summer. I sincerely recommend if you or someone you know (a rising junior) with skill in studio art, digital art, dance, acting, instrumental music, vocals or creative writing to take a look into the program. Talk to your guidance counselor between November and January in order not to miss the deadline.
As printed in the Charleston Gazette-Mail
Here's a great article written by Matthew Ayoob from the class of 2018.
Summer arts school a fun learning experience (FlipSide)
By Matthew Ayoob, Charleston Catholic High School
- Aug 21, 2018
I am anxiously walking into Buskirk Dorm at Marshall University. There is a huge line going out of the door on this hot, humid day. I look around nervously, wondering which of these unknown teenagers in front of me will be my roommate for the next three weeks. It was like my first taste of college, and I would soon find out that this camp would be my higher education in the arts, for I have never taken an art class.
After a few days, now acclimated to the camp, I wake up and grumpily walk down to breakfast in a dazed semiconscious stupor. I see my new friends, who had saved me a seat, waving me down, and I suddenly light up with energy. I grab my food and sit down and in a moment, I find myself laughing about our newly formed inside jokes. Breakfast ends too soon for us, for we are constantly talking, and we head off to our major discipline (mine is studio art).
Ms. Hanna Kozlowski, our instructor, welcomes us, as usual, with a friendly mien. I start working on my project of the day while talking with others in the studio. We leave the studio for one of our famous Starbucks breaks.
After lunch and more studio time, we were off to dinner and then the interdisciplinary (any art sphere other than our own) activity of the night. My group was going to dance class. In a few minutes, I find myself laughing and trying to contort into the dance positions, which are all extremely foreign to me. But by the end of the hour, I was enjoying myself, being out of my comfort zone. The entire camp then goes to the performance of the night, which this time was a professional storyteller. The story is engaging and funny, but I find myself starting to become exhausted from the day’s activities. We have some free time for about an hour, so I meet up with my close friends, and we watched Netflix and talked and laughed for what seemed like forever.
I just described one of the 21 days I had at camp, which helps one realize that the Governor’s School of the Arts (GSA) was an indescribable experience. You are suddenly submerged in the arts with people who are intellectually stimulated by the same realm of enrichment.
My instructor in studio art was extremely qualified and created a healthy teaching environment. I learned countless new techniques and expressed myself in many new ways.
The community and camaraderie is extremely unexpected due to the fact that most students had known none of their peers when they arrived. But being with people from 8 a.m. to around 11 p.m. creates this truly unique dynamic and has enchanting properties. The friendships of three weeks felt — and still feel like — they had been in existence since the beginning of time and were timeless. Such a strong bond is created between the camp holistically.
The environment may have been intimidating at first, being around such talented peers, but in the end that element pushed me to challenge myself and grow intellectually, socially and in my craft. I can easily say that GSA altered my daily life because I now have a strong connection with kids from other schools around the state. I can happily say my friend group has had multiple meetups since the camp ended a month ago.
It’s almost a strange feeling trying to remember who I was before GSA. The person who opened the acceptance letter is not the same person writing this article today. For anyone thinking that this program would just be summer school, it is completely different and does not resemble that at all. An interest in what you are learning about makes all the difference. There is also a ton of time allotted for having fun alongside a plethora of activities.
It was nice for me to leave home, out of my comfortable environment, and meet new people and learn things about my art form. It has almost a sleep-away camp vibe but with so many opportunities. Like this year we went to Chicago and had discipline-oriented events such as getting to see amazing art for those of us that studied studio art. To parallel, for example, the dancers got to attend dance performances and master classes.
I have never been so tired as I was when I arrived home after the three weeks away filled with enriching events. But those tired days were nothing to give up for the amazing experience I had this summer. I sincerely recommend if you or someone you know (a rising junior) with skill in studio art, digital art, dance, acting, instrumental music, vocals or creative writing to take a look into the program. Talk to your guidance counselor between November and January in order not to miss the deadline.
Retirement News - Valerie Slater, 2018
Valerie Slater retired after 26 years as a Guidance Counselor in Pike County School System. She was also the director of Pike County’s Safe Schools Program. Valerie is married to Paul David Slater. They have two children Cade and Cassidy. They live in Pikeville, KY. Retirement finds her traveling to her second home in Myrtle Beach, SC. and attending all her children’s extra curricular activities at Pikeville High School.
Valerie Slater retired after 26 years as a Guidance Counselor in Pike County School System. She was also the director of Pike County’s Safe Schools Program. Valerie is married to Paul David Slater. They have two children Cade and Cassidy. They live in Pikeville, KY. Retirement finds her traveling to her second home in Myrtle Beach, SC. and attending all her children’s extra curricular activities at Pikeville High School.
Sandy Mickel Ruder accepts her "golden diploma" from the Principal and School Board of Henrico County at the graduation ceremony of Hermitage High School class of 2018.
Retirement News - Sandy Mickel Ruder, June 2018
Sandy Ruder retired from Henrico County Public schools after 25 years. She has attended 26 High School graduations at Hermitage High School, including one of her own in 1973! Sandy has been the school nurse for the past 25 years. Her sister and brother-in-law, Sherry and John Parrish, brother David Mickel, husband Kim Ruder, and both children Jessica and Grant all attended Hermitage High School.
Prior to working 25 years at Hermitage High, Sandy was a hospital nurse, dialysis nurse and worked 15 years in OB/Gyn. She has over 40 years of nursing experience.
Her future plans include spending time with her grandson Gavin, sitting on the beach in Nags Head, North Carolina and following her husband’s band around “The Kozy Cats”. Sandy will also work on a limited basis for Henrico County Public Schools in school health.
Sandy Ruder retired from Henrico County Public schools after 25 years. She has attended 26 High School graduations at Hermitage High School, including one of her own in 1973! Sandy has been the school nurse for the past 25 years. Her sister and brother-in-law, Sherry and John Parrish, brother David Mickel, husband Kim Ruder, and both children Jessica and Grant all attended Hermitage High School.
Prior to working 25 years at Hermitage High, Sandy was a hospital nurse, dialysis nurse and worked 15 years in OB/Gyn. She has over 40 years of nursing experience.
Her future plans include spending time with her grandson Gavin, sitting on the beach in Nags Head, North Carolina and following her husband’s band around “The Kozy Cats”. Sandy will also work on a limited basis for Henrico County Public Schools in school health.
Larry and Cheryl Tweel recently created an endowment through the Big Green Scholarship Foundation, the fundraising arm of Marshall athletics specifically for the men's basketball program.
Tweel Creates Endowment for Marshall Athletics
HUNTINGTON - There are a number of reasons why Dan D'Antoni admires longtime Marshall fan and Huntington native Larry Tweel. "He bleeds green," said D'Antoni, a Herd hoops legend and fifth-year head men's basketball coach. "Through good and bad; through sunny times and rainy days. I appreciate that."
D'Antoni also recently welcomed Tweel's latest contribution to the athletic department and, specifically, the men's hoops program. Larry, 73, and his wife, Cheryl, have created an endowment through the Big Green Scholarship Foundation, the fundraising arm of Marshall athletics. The $25,000 endowment is specifically for the men's basketball program - 5 percent of the endowment will be used annually to help fund a scholarship for a member of that team.
"I think Marshall is one of the major economic engines in our area," Tweel said. "It's one of the key factors in whether or not this community grows and thrives. It's important to invest in that growth." Tweel's contributions are unique because he never attended Marshall. Born in 1944, Tweel attended Huntington High School before heading to Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. He received his Juris Doctorate in 1969 from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Tweel returned to Huntington in 1976 and has enjoyed a legal career that has spanned more than four decades.
Tweel's wife, Cheryl, is a Marshall graduate. They have a son who also attended Marshall, so connections to the school are strong. The men's basketball program has been a significant part of Tweel's life since he was a boy.
He remembers watching Leo Byrd, Hal Greer and Sonny Allen. He has traveled around the country for NIT appearances. "I have been a Marshall basketball fan forever," Tweel said. The Tweel family has been a fixture in Huntington forever, too. Larry's dad, Jim Tweel, was the founder and namesake of Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House. That gives Larry and his family a unique perspective for what makes the community prosper. D'Antoni has long been a fan of the restaurant and the family behind it.
"I love his family," D'Antoni said. "Their family values they promote everything that I promote here." The gesture by the Tweels to create a men's basketball-focused endowment meant a lot to D'Antoni.
"You have to have people like that," D'Antoni said. "He's good people. That's the kind of people we want on board people who have done a lot for Marshall and are strong advocates for athletics and academics." Larry said he is a fan of all Marshall sports. He follows the softball and volleyball programs, and his son, Brad, played golf at Marshall. Larry called it an "honor and privilege" to provide an assist, no matter where he received his education. He knows what it means for his hometown when the university and its athletic programs experience success.
"We've got a lot of ties to the community and want the community to grow," Tweel said. "Sometimes you have to invest in order for the community to grow. I've invested in Marshall and we're tickled to death to do it. I think it's really great what Danny has done for the program. He's got fine athletes, fine people, fine coaches. They're good solid citizens who do it the right way."
For more information on the Big Green Scholarship Foundation, contact Todd Childers at childers114@marshall.edu or 304-696-3407.
HUNTINGTON - There are a number of reasons why Dan D'Antoni admires longtime Marshall fan and Huntington native Larry Tweel. "He bleeds green," said D'Antoni, a Herd hoops legend and fifth-year head men's basketball coach. "Through good and bad; through sunny times and rainy days. I appreciate that."
D'Antoni also recently welcomed Tweel's latest contribution to the athletic department and, specifically, the men's hoops program. Larry, 73, and his wife, Cheryl, have created an endowment through the Big Green Scholarship Foundation, the fundraising arm of Marshall athletics. The $25,000 endowment is specifically for the men's basketball program - 5 percent of the endowment will be used annually to help fund a scholarship for a member of that team.
"I think Marshall is one of the major economic engines in our area," Tweel said. "It's one of the key factors in whether or not this community grows and thrives. It's important to invest in that growth." Tweel's contributions are unique because he never attended Marshall. Born in 1944, Tweel attended Huntington High School before heading to Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. He received his Juris Doctorate in 1969 from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Tweel returned to Huntington in 1976 and has enjoyed a legal career that has spanned more than four decades.
Tweel's wife, Cheryl, is a Marshall graduate. They have a son who also attended Marshall, so connections to the school are strong. The men's basketball program has been a significant part of Tweel's life since he was a boy.
He remembers watching Leo Byrd, Hal Greer and Sonny Allen. He has traveled around the country for NIT appearances. "I have been a Marshall basketball fan forever," Tweel said. The Tweel family has been a fixture in Huntington forever, too. Larry's dad, Jim Tweel, was the founder and namesake of Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House. That gives Larry and his family a unique perspective for what makes the community prosper. D'Antoni has long been a fan of the restaurant and the family behind it.
"I love his family," D'Antoni said. "Their family values they promote everything that I promote here." The gesture by the Tweels to create a men's basketball-focused endowment meant a lot to D'Antoni.
"You have to have people like that," D'Antoni said. "He's good people. That's the kind of people we want on board people who have done a lot for Marshall and are strong advocates for athletics and academics." Larry said he is a fan of all Marshall sports. He follows the softball and volleyball programs, and his son, Brad, played golf at Marshall. Larry called it an "honor and privilege" to provide an assist, no matter where he received his education. He knows what it means for his hometown when the university and its athletic programs experience success.
"We've got a lot of ties to the community and want the community to grow," Tweel said. "Sometimes you have to invest in order for the community to grow. I've invested in Marshall and we're tickled to death to do it. I think it's really great what Danny has done for the program. He's got fine athletes, fine people, fine coaches. They're good solid citizens who do it the right way."
For more information on the Big Green Scholarship Foundation, contact Todd Childers at childers114@marshall.edu or 304-696-3407.
Huntington native's love for history, judicial system propelled his path to becoming successful attorney
HUNTINGTON - "Don't worry when you are not recognized, but strive to be worthy of recognition," a quote made by Abraham Lincoln, is a lesson Huntington attorney Abraham Saad has taken to heart throughout his 39-year journey through life.
While his desire to be recognized has lessened in the last few years, he said the passion of striving to be worthy is what has driven him to be one of the area's most successful litigators. While it's difficult to find a Huntington neighborhood that hasn't been affected by his father, Julian, Saad said he always knew he wanted to take his own journey and be an attorney. "The joke is now people like to tell him, 'Oh, I know your son,'" he said. "We are getting in that point in our careers where we are reversing roles, and we like to tease each other for that." Saad grew up with three sisters, one of whom has died, and graduated in the first class of Huntington High School in 1997. He played soccer and a year of basketball for the school before traveling to Nashville for undergraduate school at Vanderbilt in 2001.
He was a classical studies major, mixing his love for history and the law through his studies and reading. He has taken great influence from Marcus Tullius Cicero, an ancient Roman politician and lawyer, as well as Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.
His love for history does not go unnoticed. His office is filled with presidential bobble heads, and quotes from U.S. presidents hang on the wall as inspiration.
After taking a year break, he graduated in 2005 from Capital University Law School in Columbus before returning to Huntington.
Out of college, Saad jointed a civil defense firm - Steptoe & Johnson in Huntington - before going out on his own.
Now Saad Dixon Law Offices, which is located across from Cabell County Courthouse, is headed by the husband and wife team of Saad and Sarah Dixon, along with attorney Adam Slone, who was brought on to the firm in 2015. With the three attorneys, the law office has license to practice throughout the Tri-State region.
Saad and Dixon teamed up professionally when they moved the office across the street from the Cabell County Courthouse in 2014, he said.
"Somebody once told me I'm the only person they ever met that hired their own boss," he said. Also on the team is investigator Stephen Morrison, who Saad said is the best investigator in the area. Saad said he loves owning his own practice, stating there is no greater lesson than ones learned from your own experiences and mistakes.
While he is mostly known for his criminal defense cases, Saad said he does a lot of employment litigation as well. Criminal cases were just supposed to be a way for him to make money, but he soon found he enjoyed it too much to give it up. Saad has defended accused murderers, rapists and drug dealers, and is often asked how he manages to sleep at night. In turn, he said he believes everyone deserves to be awarded their constitutional rights, and it is his duty to see that through. "I think I have a responsibility to do my job and do it well," he said. "The only thing that would keep me from sleeping is if I didn't prepare properly. That is the only time I would be upset at myself." For some of his clients, Saad is the only thing standing between an innocent person being sent away for life and being free. "I always have a little bit of nervousness to start, because I always have a life on the line," he said. "If I lost a murder case and this person goes to jail for a long time, I feel that pressure."
Saad takes the obligation so seriously, it is not recommended one cross his path on a trial week. He said he doesn't sleep for days and creates a "war room" where he closes himself off from human contact and social media while he practices what he will say on a whiteboard.
One of the cases that affected him the most is the Douglas Neumeyer case in which a man was found guilty of sexually touching a 10-year-old girl nine years after the assault happened. Although the case is still in appeals, Neumeyer later admitted his guilt to the court after conviction. Saad said that case humbled him more than anything.
"I got really sick after that case, and it's probably why I changed my health habits," he said. "The stress of these types of cases takes a physical toll. After that case, I made some changes in my life to make sure I'm in the best physical shape. " Cases like those of Rhamel Hatcher, who was charged with first-degree murder and convicted of involuntary manslaughter by a jury for the 2010 death of Jeremy Scott Cook, and the acquittal of Randall Pennington in a sexual assault case, stick with him the most, he said. While some would criticize the American jury system, Saad said he finds nothing more thrilling than standing before one. "I think that juries understand their responsibilities, and I have found they take it super seriously," he said. "If I can celebrate when they find in my favor, I'm certainly not going to criticize them for finding against me."
A major influence of Saad's path to becoming an attorney was Huntington civil rights attorney Herb Henderson, who he shadowed around the age of 18.
"One of the things he said to me - and it always stuck in my mind - was when you get to be an advocate for the law, at some point what you're doing is being a part of history," he said. "Whether it's just a tiny part of history, you are doing things the constitution guarantees and you get to advocate for that and be part of that history."
He also takes a lot of influence from Johnnie Cochran, who is best known for leading O.J. Simpson's murder trial. He said Cochran taught him to find a quote to open a trial with that would hit home for every juror, no matter the age. Saad opens his trial arguments with the Ronald Regan quote of "Trust, but verify." The Saad-Dixon family is completed by two boys, 3-year-old Julian and 1-year-old George, who Saad said are his greatest accomplishments.
He works for his boys and hopes one day they can follow in his footsteps, even if they don't choose his career path. "If someone doesn't like me, that doesn't bother me. But I hope one day people will tell them, 'When you were in the courtroom with him you knew you were up for a battle,'" he said. "I would love for them to choose the law, but whatever they do, I want them to have the same mentality, preparation and work ethic. I guess you could say ethical standards, as well." A business owner, dad, husband and attorney, Saad said he believes he has now learned how to juggle his life.
"It's something I didn't do well when I first started practicing, but what I think having children changed is that you learn the art of time management," he said. "I think I accomplish more in a shorter amount of time now as a dad. I do find I can get a whole bunch more done. You just have to manage what you do during the day." As a night owl, Saad said he accomplishes a lot as the world sleeps. As he develops his craft, Saad said sometimes he and Dixon think about growing the office, but for now, they are enjoying the time they can spend with family.
Follow reporter Courtney Hessler at Facebook.com/CHesslerHD and via Twitter @HesslerHD.
HUNTINGTON - "Don't worry when you are not recognized, but strive to be worthy of recognition," a quote made by Abraham Lincoln, is a lesson Huntington attorney Abraham Saad has taken to heart throughout his 39-year journey through life.
While his desire to be recognized has lessened in the last few years, he said the passion of striving to be worthy is what has driven him to be one of the area's most successful litigators. While it's difficult to find a Huntington neighborhood that hasn't been affected by his father, Julian, Saad said he always knew he wanted to take his own journey and be an attorney. "The joke is now people like to tell him, 'Oh, I know your son,'" he said. "We are getting in that point in our careers where we are reversing roles, and we like to tease each other for that." Saad grew up with three sisters, one of whom has died, and graduated in the first class of Huntington High School in 1997. He played soccer and a year of basketball for the school before traveling to Nashville for undergraduate school at Vanderbilt in 2001.
He was a classical studies major, mixing his love for history and the law through his studies and reading. He has taken great influence from Marcus Tullius Cicero, an ancient Roman politician and lawyer, as well as Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.
His love for history does not go unnoticed. His office is filled with presidential bobble heads, and quotes from U.S. presidents hang on the wall as inspiration.
After taking a year break, he graduated in 2005 from Capital University Law School in Columbus before returning to Huntington.
Out of college, Saad jointed a civil defense firm - Steptoe & Johnson in Huntington - before going out on his own.
Now Saad Dixon Law Offices, which is located across from Cabell County Courthouse, is headed by the husband and wife team of Saad and Sarah Dixon, along with attorney Adam Slone, who was brought on to the firm in 2015. With the three attorneys, the law office has license to practice throughout the Tri-State region.
Saad and Dixon teamed up professionally when they moved the office across the street from the Cabell County Courthouse in 2014, he said.
"Somebody once told me I'm the only person they ever met that hired their own boss," he said. Also on the team is investigator Stephen Morrison, who Saad said is the best investigator in the area. Saad said he loves owning his own practice, stating there is no greater lesson than ones learned from your own experiences and mistakes.
While he is mostly known for his criminal defense cases, Saad said he does a lot of employment litigation as well. Criminal cases were just supposed to be a way for him to make money, but he soon found he enjoyed it too much to give it up. Saad has defended accused murderers, rapists and drug dealers, and is often asked how he manages to sleep at night. In turn, he said he believes everyone deserves to be awarded their constitutional rights, and it is his duty to see that through. "I think I have a responsibility to do my job and do it well," he said. "The only thing that would keep me from sleeping is if I didn't prepare properly. That is the only time I would be upset at myself." For some of his clients, Saad is the only thing standing between an innocent person being sent away for life and being free. "I always have a little bit of nervousness to start, because I always have a life on the line," he said. "If I lost a murder case and this person goes to jail for a long time, I feel that pressure."
Saad takes the obligation so seriously, it is not recommended one cross his path on a trial week. He said he doesn't sleep for days and creates a "war room" where he closes himself off from human contact and social media while he practices what he will say on a whiteboard.
One of the cases that affected him the most is the Douglas Neumeyer case in which a man was found guilty of sexually touching a 10-year-old girl nine years after the assault happened. Although the case is still in appeals, Neumeyer later admitted his guilt to the court after conviction. Saad said that case humbled him more than anything.
"I got really sick after that case, and it's probably why I changed my health habits," he said. "The stress of these types of cases takes a physical toll. After that case, I made some changes in my life to make sure I'm in the best physical shape. " Cases like those of Rhamel Hatcher, who was charged with first-degree murder and convicted of involuntary manslaughter by a jury for the 2010 death of Jeremy Scott Cook, and the acquittal of Randall Pennington in a sexual assault case, stick with him the most, he said. While some would criticize the American jury system, Saad said he finds nothing more thrilling than standing before one. "I think that juries understand their responsibilities, and I have found they take it super seriously," he said. "If I can celebrate when they find in my favor, I'm certainly not going to criticize them for finding against me."
A major influence of Saad's path to becoming an attorney was Huntington civil rights attorney Herb Henderson, who he shadowed around the age of 18.
"One of the things he said to me - and it always stuck in my mind - was when you get to be an advocate for the law, at some point what you're doing is being a part of history," he said. "Whether it's just a tiny part of history, you are doing things the constitution guarantees and you get to advocate for that and be part of that history."
He also takes a lot of influence from Johnnie Cochran, who is best known for leading O.J. Simpson's murder trial. He said Cochran taught him to find a quote to open a trial with that would hit home for every juror, no matter the age. Saad opens his trial arguments with the Ronald Regan quote of "Trust, but verify." The Saad-Dixon family is completed by two boys, 3-year-old Julian and 1-year-old George, who Saad said are his greatest accomplishments.
He works for his boys and hopes one day they can follow in his footsteps, even if they don't choose his career path. "If someone doesn't like me, that doesn't bother me. But I hope one day people will tell them, 'When you were in the courtroom with him you knew you were up for a battle,'" he said. "I would love for them to choose the law, but whatever they do, I want them to have the same mentality, preparation and work ethic. I guess you could say ethical standards, as well." A business owner, dad, husband and attorney, Saad said he believes he has now learned how to juggle his life.
"It's something I didn't do well when I first started practicing, but what I think having children changed is that you learn the art of time management," he said. "I think I accomplish more in a shorter amount of time now as a dad. I do find I can get a whole bunch more done. You just have to manage what you do during the day." As a night owl, Saad said he accomplishes a lot as the world sleeps. As he develops his craft, Saad said sometimes he and Dixon think about growing the office, but for now, they are enjoying the time they can spend with family.
Follow reporter Courtney Hessler at Facebook.com/CHesslerHD and via Twitter @HesslerHD.
Jim's Restaurant Celebrates 80 Years
HUNTINGTON - In honor of its 80th anniversary, Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House will hold a public celebration on Saturday, June 9. The well-known dining establishment will begin the celebration with an opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m., and then will offer a special limited menu with reduced prices during their normal Saturday hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Throughout the day, patrons will also be able to enjoy live music provided by different local musicians.
The 1937 Flood will perform at 4 p.m. as part of the celebration at the restaurant the late Jim Tweel started in 1938.
"The fact that we're still here speaks volumes about the commitment of our customers," general manager Jimmie Tweel Carder said. "It always warms my heart to hear memories and stories about my dad. As much as we're trying to make our own memories, his will live on forever."
HUNTINGTON - In honor of its 80th anniversary, Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House will hold a public celebration on Saturday, June 9. The well-known dining establishment will begin the celebration with an opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m., and then will offer a special limited menu with reduced prices during their normal Saturday hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Throughout the day, patrons will also be able to enjoy live music provided by different local musicians.
The 1937 Flood will perform at 4 p.m. as part of the celebration at the restaurant the late Jim Tweel started in 1938.
"The fact that we're still here speaks volumes about the commitment of our customers," general manager Jimmie Tweel Carder said. "It always warms my heart to hear memories and stories about my dad. As much as we're trying to make our own memories, his will live on forever."
Andrea Roy, left, who has served as interim director of the United Way of the River Cities presents Christina Saad McNeely with a Volunteer of the Year award during the United Way of the River Cities' annual Celebration of Excellence on Thursday, March 29, 2018, at the St. Mary's Conference Center in Huntington.
United Way Recognizes Contributors
The Herald-Dispatch, March 30, 2018
HUNTINGTON - On Thursday afternoon, the United Way of the River Cities gathered its board members, volunteers and community ambassadors to recognize those who have championed the nonprofit's mission over the past year.
The annual Celebration of Excellence, which took place at the St. Mary's Conference Center, was a time for recognition and appreciation of those who help the organization in its fight for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of its community members.
"Throughout the year, we work hard and diligently to raise funds so we can partner and give those funds back to the community to address the communities' biggest needs," said Matt Ward, director of development for the nonprofit. "We have in this room very large donors, fantastic volunteers, fantastic advocates and just really good friends of the United Way of the River Cities that makes what we do possible. We are here to honor them and make sure they know how appreciated they are."
Keynote speaker Hank Dial, interim police chief for the city of Huntington, also noted how important it is to recognize people for what they do.
"Sometimes people who work in public service, we are constantly moving on to the next thing on our agenda, but sometimes we need to stop and celebrate all the efforts people put in," Dial said. "They put in a lot of time and resources into solutions. Huntington is an epicenter for solutions, and these people and businesses who are recognized today are a big part of that."
Dial said the United Way is an outstanding partner with both the city of Huntington and the police department.
"You'll always hear us talking about partnering with federal agencies - FBI, DEA and things like that - but the United Way is also an important partnering agency with the city," he said.
"The great thing about the United Way is we have a lot of groups and lots of folks that constantly want to identify what the problems are, but whenever I go to a meeting with the United Way, we are working on solutions to those problems."
In addition to both working every day toward making Huntington and the Tri-State area better, the United Way and HPD have other similarities, Dial said.
"Another thing we have in common is we are both recruiting, so if folks out there would like to get involved and be a part of the solution, I recommend they not get on Facebook, (that) they get on unitedway.org/volunteer or HPDWV.com and come join the fight," he said. "Their theme here is 'United We Fight, United We Win,' and I can't think of a better theme."
The United Way of the River Cities serves those in Cabell, Wayne, Lincoln and Mason counties in West Virginia and Lawrence County, Ohio. Any individual or entity interested in volunteering with the United Way can reach out by email or phone, or stop by the agency's office.
"We would love to have a conversation and see how we can help them in their needs," Ward said.
Among those receiving awards Thursday were:
* Large Company of the Year: Steel of West Virginia and United Steel Workers Local 37
"Steel of West Virginia and the United Steel Workers Local 37 have been the largest contributor to the United Way of the River Cities' workplace campaign for the past five years, including this past year of $112,000," Ward said. "With the combined efforts of a workforce of over 550 employees, they have achieved a lifetime giving of over $1.5 million."
* Small Company of the Year: Harris, Hardin & Company A.C.
* Trendsetter of the Year: Marshall University
* Volunteer of the Year: Christina Saad McNeely
"As the name implies, this award recognizes a single individual who has gone above and beyond to advance our work in the community," said Andrea Roy, who served as interim executive director for United Way of the River Cities. "Christina is always willing to pitch in. She is an enthusiastic advocate for United Way, and her hard work was one of the reasons that LEVELS, our gala event, had its most successful year yet."
The Herald-Dispatch, March 30, 2018
HUNTINGTON - On Thursday afternoon, the United Way of the River Cities gathered its board members, volunteers and community ambassadors to recognize those who have championed the nonprofit's mission over the past year.
The annual Celebration of Excellence, which took place at the St. Mary's Conference Center, was a time for recognition and appreciation of those who help the organization in its fight for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of its community members.
"Throughout the year, we work hard and diligently to raise funds so we can partner and give those funds back to the community to address the communities' biggest needs," said Matt Ward, director of development for the nonprofit. "We have in this room very large donors, fantastic volunteers, fantastic advocates and just really good friends of the United Way of the River Cities that makes what we do possible. We are here to honor them and make sure they know how appreciated they are."
Keynote speaker Hank Dial, interim police chief for the city of Huntington, also noted how important it is to recognize people for what they do.
"Sometimes people who work in public service, we are constantly moving on to the next thing on our agenda, but sometimes we need to stop and celebrate all the efforts people put in," Dial said. "They put in a lot of time and resources into solutions. Huntington is an epicenter for solutions, and these people and businesses who are recognized today are a big part of that."
Dial said the United Way is an outstanding partner with both the city of Huntington and the police department.
"You'll always hear us talking about partnering with federal agencies - FBI, DEA and things like that - but the United Way is also an important partnering agency with the city," he said.
"The great thing about the United Way is we have a lot of groups and lots of folks that constantly want to identify what the problems are, but whenever I go to a meeting with the United Way, we are working on solutions to those problems."
In addition to both working every day toward making Huntington and the Tri-State area better, the United Way and HPD have other similarities, Dial said.
"Another thing we have in common is we are both recruiting, so if folks out there would like to get involved and be a part of the solution, I recommend they not get on Facebook, (that) they get on unitedway.org/volunteer or HPDWV.com and come join the fight," he said. "Their theme here is 'United We Fight, United We Win,' and I can't think of a better theme."
The United Way of the River Cities serves those in Cabell, Wayne, Lincoln and Mason counties in West Virginia and Lawrence County, Ohio. Any individual or entity interested in volunteering with the United Way can reach out by email or phone, or stop by the agency's office.
"We would love to have a conversation and see how we can help them in their needs," Ward said.
Among those receiving awards Thursday were:
* Large Company of the Year: Steel of West Virginia and United Steel Workers Local 37
"Steel of West Virginia and the United Steel Workers Local 37 have been the largest contributor to the United Way of the River Cities' workplace campaign for the past five years, including this past year of $112,000," Ward said. "With the combined efforts of a workforce of over 550 employees, they have achieved a lifetime giving of over $1.5 million."
* Small Company of the Year: Harris, Hardin & Company A.C.
* Trendsetter of the Year: Marshall University
* Volunteer of the Year: Christina Saad McNeely
"As the name implies, this award recognizes a single individual who has gone above and beyond to advance our work in the community," said Andrea Roy, who served as interim executive director for United Way of the River Cities. "Christina is always willing to pitch in. She is an enthusiastic advocate for United Way, and her hard work was one of the reasons that LEVELS, our gala event, had its most successful year yet."
The Herald-Dispatch Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce presented its 13th Annual Volunteer Awards Luncheon on Friday, January 26, 2018, at the Guyan Golf and Country Club in Huntington, Julian Saad was the Chamber Volunteer of the Year.
Huntington chamber selects Saad for top volunteer award
"It means so much to me," Saad said after receiving the honor. "This great organization has always been in my heart since I joined it in 1988. I know how much this chamber means to the city, the county, local businesses and the communities it serves. It is such an honor to be recognized this way."
Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bill Bissett said the award is given to a chamber member annually to recognize his or her extraordinary personal commitment and significant impact to the chamber and the community.
"Julian Saad has done so much for this chamber and his community over the past 30 years," Bissett said. "He has such positivity in everything he touches and gives back so much to his community. Every time I see him, he has a tremendous smile on his face. No matter how difficult the issue may be, Julian is always positive." Saad's award was presented to him by his son, Abraham Saad.
"He is the son of a butcher and was born in a little village in the southern mountains of Lebanon," Abraham Saad said. "One could say where he was raised in Lebanon was the equivalent of being in the Appalachian Mountains. It was not surprising that when he ventured across the Atlantic and immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 25, he found himself in a place that was like his home."
Saad arrived in Huntington in May 1969 and was an electrical engineer by trade, his son said. "He was hired at Ensign Electric on Adams Avenue," Abraham Saad said. "He worked there for 12 to 13 years until the company closed its doors and he was laid off. It was the turning point in his life. While SMC Electric Products hired him and he worked there for 16 years, it was at this moment at his layoff that this husband and father of four did not want to leave his fate in the hands of someone else."
In 1988, Julian Saad opened Saad's Oriental Rugs. In 1991, he opened a second rug store in Charleston. "By 1994, he joined the board of the chamber and he and my mother's businesses continued to flourish," Abraham Saad said.
In 2001, Julian Saad purchased the former Mansour's Market, located at 1049 12th St. in Huntington. "We thought he had lost his mind when he purchased this small market at a time with expanding supermarkets and Walmarts, but he succeeded in a bleak small-grocery market," Abraham Saad said. By 2007, Julian Saad had expanded his businesses to include liquor and now has Saad's Fine Wine and Spirits, Southside Spirits and Stadium Spirits. "Anyone who knows him knows he enjoys entertaining and giving back to his community," Abraham Saad said. "Whether it's hosting Chamber After Hours events, the Marshall Artists Series reception or attending fundraisers, he loves being part of this community and he loves being part of this chamber of commerce."
The chamber also recognized and honored other members. The Ambassador Award went to Jason Shepherd with JP Morgan Chase Bank, while the Downtown Live Award went to Bobbie Ward with Manpower. Mendy Aluise, the 2017 Generation Huntington chairperson, presented Generation Huntington awards to Huntington Councilwoman Jennifer Wheeler, the Cabell County Assessor's Office and Shane Finster with Armstrong. The Women 2 Women Award presented by Ann Stamm of Merrill Lynch went to Juliette Buffington-Tomlin with Woodlands Retirement Community. Robert Sellards, a partner with the Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough law firm, was recognized for his chamber executive committee leadership. Chamber cornerstone members were also recognized.
"A lot of people who lead this chamber are obviously very busy but still find time to volunteer their time to make this chamber better, and this event is a way for us to recognize them for everything they do," Bissett said. Bissett said the chamber has more than 550 members in Cabell and Wayne counties. "We have everything from large employers to multi-generational, small family businesses in the chamber," he said. "They all deserve recognition because they are all important by providing jobs and opportunities to those who live and work here."
- By FRED PACE on January 27, 2018
"It means so much to me," Saad said after receiving the honor. "This great organization has always been in my heart since I joined it in 1988. I know how much this chamber means to the city, the county, local businesses and the communities it serves. It is such an honor to be recognized this way."
Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bill Bissett said the award is given to a chamber member annually to recognize his or her extraordinary personal commitment and significant impact to the chamber and the community.
"Julian Saad has done so much for this chamber and his community over the past 30 years," Bissett said. "He has such positivity in everything he touches and gives back so much to his community. Every time I see him, he has a tremendous smile on his face. No matter how difficult the issue may be, Julian is always positive." Saad's award was presented to him by his son, Abraham Saad.
"He is the son of a butcher and was born in a little village in the southern mountains of Lebanon," Abraham Saad said. "One could say where he was raised in Lebanon was the equivalent of being in the Appalachian Mountains. It was not surprising that when he ventured across the Atlantic and immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 25, he found himself in a place that was like his home."
Saad arrived in Huntington in May 1969 and was an electrical engineer by trade, his son said. "He was hired at Ensign Electric on Adams Avenue," Abraham Saad said. "He worked there for 12 to 13 years until the company closed its doors and he was laid off. It was the turning point in his life. While SMC Electric Products hired him and he worked there for 16 years, it was at this moment at his layoff that this husband and father of four did not want to leave his fate in the hands of someone else."
In 1988, Julian Saad opened Saad's Oriental Rugs. In 1991, he opened a second rug store in Charleston. "By 1994, he joined the board of the chamber and he and my mother's businesses continued to flourish," Abraham Saad said.
In 2001, Julian Saad purchased the former Mansour's Market, located at 1049 12th St. in Huntington. "We thought he had lost his mind when he purchased this small market at a time with expanding supermarkets and Walmarts, but he succeeded in a bleak small-grocery market," Abraham Saad said. By 2007, Julian Saad had expanded his businesses to include liquor and now has Saad's Fine Wine and Spirits, Southside Spirits and Stadium Spirits. "Anyone who knows him knows he enjoys entertaining and giving back to his community," Abraham Saad said. "Whether it's hosting Chamber After Hours events, the Marshall Artists Series reception or attending fundraisers, he loves being part of this community and he loves being part of this chamber of commerce."
The chamber also recognized and honored other members. The Ambassador Award went to Jason Shepherd with JP Morgan Chase Bank, while the Downtown Live Award went to Bobbie Ward with Manpower. Mendy Aluise, the 2017 Generation Huntington chairperson, presented Generation Huntington awards to Huntington Councilwoman Jennifer Wheeler, the Cabell County Assessor's Office and Shane Finster with Armstrong. The Women 2 Women Award presented by Ann Stamm of Merrill Lynch went to Juliette Buffington-Tomlin with Woodlands Retirement Community. Robert Sellards, a partner with the Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough law firm, was recognized for his chamber executive committee leadership. Chamber cornerstone members were also recognized.
"A lot of people who lead this chamber are obviously very busy but still find time to volunteer their time to make this chamber better, and this event is a way for us to recognize them for everything they do," Bissett said. Bissett said the chamber has more than 550 members in Cabell and Wayne counties. "We have everything from large employers to multi-generational, small family businesses in the chamber," he said. "They all deserve recognition because they are all important by providing jobs and opportunities to those who live and work here."
Denise on the left with her good working buddy, Ann, who also retired in 2017.
Retirement News - Denise Mickel Russell, December 2017
After 39+ years working across three Federal Reserve Bank (FRB)) Offices, Denise Mickel Russell has retired! Denise began her Fed career at the Charleston processing center in 1978 as a check sorter operator and later worked in the computer room. After nine years, she transferred to FRB Richmond and worked in many different areas of the check department, eventually working with the Department of the Treasury where she worked on numerous projects that saved the Treasury time and money in the way that they handled both check and ACH payments. After 21 years in Richmond, Denise transferred to FRB Philadelphia as a Senior Project Manager and worked remotely from her home as she continued to work on Treasury projects. "I'm happy to say that after 39+ years, I'm retiring young, early and healthy!" Denise and her husband Ron, who is also retired, live in Glen Allen, VA with their two children. Various trips have been taking up their time including a cruise to the Caribbean and of course to Myrtle Beach for the reunion.
After 39+ years working across three Federal Reserve Bank (FRB)) Offices, Denise Mickel Russell has retired! Denise began her Fed career at the Charleston processing center in 1978 as a check sorter operator and later worked in the computer room. After nine years, she transferred to FRB Richmond and worked in many different areas of the check department, eventually working with the Department of the Treasury where she worked on numerous projects that saved the Treasury time and money in the way that they handled both check and ACH payments. After 21 years in Richmond, Denise transferred to FRB Philadelphia as a Senior Project Manager and worked remotely from her home as she continued to work on Treasury projects. "I'm happy to say that after 39+ years, I'm retiring young, early and healthy!" Denise and her husband Ron, who is also retired, live in Glen Allen, VA with their two children. Various trips have been taking up their time including a cruise to the Caribbean and of course to Myrtle Beach for the reunion.
Recent Kentucky Teacher Retirees Christy McCoy, July 2017
Christy has been working for two years in Mingo County, WV as a Long-Term Substitute working with 5th through 8th grades. Recently, she took on a job at a local community college, working for Verizon Innovations in Learning STEM Camp for 6th through 8th grade girls in Appalachia.
Christy has been working for two years in Mingo County, WV as a Long-Term Substitute working with 5th through 8th grades. Recently, she took on a job at a local community college, working for Verizon Innovations in Learning STEM Camp for 6th through 8th grade girls in Appalachia.
Tiana Hall - "Together We Won the Great War" Presentation at the Charleston Culture Center
This summer Tiana Hall has been working in the Archives and History section of the Culture Center in Charleston, WV. She gave a presentation on July 15, 2017 in the Archives Library at the Culture Center on an exhibit that she researched and created, titled "Together We Won the Great War." The Culture Center is a great way to learn about West Virginians' direct involvement in World War I. There are many really interesting items including soldiers' letters, photos, propaganda posters, comics, and victory medals! Check out the exhibits if you are in the area.
Tiana is the daughter of Dona Christian Hall of South Charleston, WV and the late Philip Hall of Los Angeles, CA; granddaughter of Rose Thabet Christian also of South Charleston and the late Donald Christian; and the great-granddaughter of the late Toufic and Rasmia Thabet.
Tiana's on-line exhibit is located on West Virginia's Culture Center site of the WV Archives and History and can be viewed from this link:
This summer Tiana Hall has been working in the Archives and History section of the Culture Center in Charleston, WV. She gave a presentation on July 15, 2017 in the Archives Library at the Culture Center on an exhibit that she researched and created, titled "Together We Won the Great War." The Culture Center is a great way to learn about West Virginians' direct involvement in World War I. There are many really interesting items including soldiers' letters, photos, propaganda posters, comics, and victory medals! Check out the exhibits if you are in the area.
Tiana is the daughter of Dona Christian Hall of South Charleston, WV and the late Philip Hall of Los Angeles, CA; granddaughter of Rose Thabet Christian also of South Charleston and the late Donald Christian; and the great-granddaughter of the late Toufic and Rasmia Thabet.
Tiana's on-line exhibit is located on West Virginia's Culture Center site of the WV Archives and History and can be viewed from this link:
Sammy Anspatch
George Hanna recently connected with his cousin Patty Anspach who is the daughter of his late cousin Laura Bassett Augsburger. Patty's two boys have been very active. Sammy who is 15, decided to go out for golf and made the varsity team. He is a big basketball and track fan and last year as an 8th grader he qualified in a state track meet in shot put and finished 13th overall. He has a 4.0 GPA and has been class president for three years running. He has a goal of becoming a lawyer. |
Matthew Anspatch
Matthew is Sammy's younger brother. He is 8 years old and loves sports and plays soccer, basketball and baseball. Last winter, Matthew led his basketball team to an undefeated season and scored 35 points in one of his games! He is super competitive and always has a smile on his face. |
Matthew Stagg became an Eagle Scout on May 8, 2017 and also went on an exchange program to South Africa for three weeks. Earlier this year, Matthew participated in the Junior Olympics Riffle Team.
Matthew is pictured with his proud grandfather, Alan Stagg (left) and father Michael Stagg (right).
Congratulations Matthew!
Matthew is pictured with his proud grandfather, Alan Stagg (left) and father Michael Stagg (right).
Congratulations Matthew!
Nursing Degree Recipient
Congratulations to Martha Cook of Monee, IL for completing her Nursing degree! She also has a degree in the Art of Psychology. After working as a Medical Assistant, Advanced Bedside Care Provider, CNA, and Phlebotomist for the last 10 years, she finally reached her goal to become a Nurse!
Martha is the daughter of Gerry & Amy Cook (Haddad) and granddaughter of Emily (Abraham) Haddad & and the Late George Haddad.
Congratulations to Martha Cook of Monee, IL for completing her Nursing degree! She also has a degree in the Art of Psychology. After working as a Medical Assistant, Advanced Bedside Care Provider, CNA, and Phlebotomist for the last 10 years, she finally reached her goal to become a Nurse!
Martha is the daughter of Gerry & Amy Cook (Haddad) and granddaughter of Emily (Abraham) Haddad & and the Late George Haddad.
CEDAR Award Winner
In 2005, Christy McCoy received her National Board Teacher Certification in the area of Early and Middle Childhood Reading:Language Arts. In January 2016, she was granted the National Board Teacher Certification Renewal. Then in April 2016, she was awarded as the CEDAR - Coal Education Development And Resource Council's Teacher of the Year Award. Her winnings totaled $4,800 and included a week long trip to Myrtle Beach's Kingston Plantation Embassy Suites Hotel for the North Carolina Coal Institute's Summer Trade Seminar. Christy took her mother, Jeanette Cantees McCoy, her brother Rod McCoy and his son Paul Dustin along on the trip.
Congratulations Christy!
In 2005, Christy McCoy received her National Board Teacher Certification in the area of Early and Middle Childhood Reading:Language Arts. In January 2016, she was granted the National Board Teacher Certification Renewal. Then in April 2016, she was awarded as the CEDAR - Coal Education Development And Resource Council's Teacher of the Year Award. Her winnings totaled $4,800 and included a week long trip to Myrtle Beach's Kingston Plantation Embassy Suites Hotel for the North Carolina Coal Institute's Summer Trade Seminar. Christy took her mother, Jeanette Cantees McCoy, her brother Rod McCoy and his son Paul Dustin along on the trip.
Congratulations Christy!
Celebrating a Grand Opening!
John and Deitra Hickey proudly opened their second Serenity Health & Wellness Center location in Perrysburg, Ohio after their third onsite expansion.
John and Deitra also launched their 501C3 charity, "Ruthie's Angels", named after her mother (Ruthie Jamra). The organization raises funds for holistic health treatments for individuals suffering with chronic pain or a diagnosis who have a financial challenge.
John and Deitra Hickey proudly opened their second Serenity Health & Wellness Center location in Perrysburg, Ohio after their third onsite expansion.
John and Deitra also launched their 501C3 charity, "Ruthie's Angels", named after her mother (Ruthie Jamra). The organization raises funds for holistic health treatments for individuals suffering with chronic pain or a diagnosis who have a financial challenge.
Theatre Hall of Fame taps Professor Abe Bassett
By Meredith Moss, Dayton Daily News Arts Reporter
Former Wright State University professor Abe Bassett was inducted into the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame on Saturday evening, July 30. The special evening also incorporates the annual DayTony award presentations.
The Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame was created in 2001 to honor local theatre artists and patrons of the arts whose life-long participation, innovation and creativity have influenced the Dayton arts culture. The special honor recognizes individuals who have dedicated themselves to the cause of theatre arts in Dayton or have made a significant impact on Dayton’s theatrical community. The 2016 inductees are Abe Bassett and Joe and Marilyn Mitchell.
When Bassett first came to Wright State in 1970 to build the school’s theatre program, there were two faculty members, six theatre courses, and no dedicated facilities. Under his leadership, by 1980 the department led the state in number of majors and size of audience. The school won Program Excellence Awards fro the Ohio Board of Regents in 1984, 1986 and 1988, brining grants of more than $1.5 million.
In 1988, Bassett left Wright State to become the founding Dean of the College of Fine and Performing Arts at Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne. He retired in 1994, and is a past president of the Wright State University Retirees Association, and presently serves as Secretary and Webmaster.
By Meredith Moss, Dayton Daily News Arts Reporter
Former Wright State University professor Abe Bassett was inducted into the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame on Saturday evening, July 30. The special evening also incorporates the annual DayTony award presentations.
The Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame was created in 2001 to honor local theatre artists and patrons of the arts whose life-long participation, innovation and creativity have influenced the Dayton arts culture. The special honor recognizes individuals who have dedicated themselves to the cause of theatre arts in Dayton or have made a significant impact on Dayton’s theatrical community. The 2016 inductees are Abe Bassett and Joe and Marilyn Mitchell.
When Bassett first came to Wright State in 1970 to build the school’s theatre program, there were two faculty members, six theatre courses, and no dedicated facilities. Under his leadership, by 1980 the department led the state in number of majors and size of audience. The school won Program Excellence Awards fro the Ohio Board of Regents in 1984, 1986 and 1988, brining grants of more than $1.5 million.
In 1988, Bassett left Wright State to become the founding Dean of the College of Fine and Performing Arts at Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne. He retired in 1994, and is a past president of the Wright State University Retirees Association, and presently serves as Secretary and Webmaster.
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Matthew Stagg, the grandson of Alan and Karyn Stagg of Cross Lanes, WV was selected as part of the Junior Olympics Rifle Team where he participated in Colorado Springs earlier this year. Matthew is pictured on the far right with his riffle. While this event was not part of the regular Olympics, it was an honor for the boys that were selected.
Congratulations Matthew! |
Michael Abraham of St. Johns, FL, son of Mike and Nora Abraham and grandson of Raymond Abraham (Huntington, WV) performed in the NYC 2014 Jazz Festival playing lead trumpet in the Fruit Cove Middle School Jazz Band. They were the only middle school band in the country invited to play at the event that was held in NYC's Lincoln Center. High School and University bands dominated this event. Michael was a two year member of this talented group of 28 young musicians.
While in New York, there were able to visit the many historical landmarks, World Trade Center Memorial and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.
Showing up unannounced to surprise and witness this once in a lifetime event was Michael's grandfather Raymond, his Aunt Linda Thomas and cousin Kimberly Thomas.
While in New York, there were able to visit the many historical landmarks, World Trade Center Memorial and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.
Showing up unannounced to surprise and witness this once in a lifetime event was Michael's grandfather Raymond, his Aunt Linda Thomas and cousin Kimberly Thomas.
Diana Mederos, daughter of Sarah Bassett recently passed the United States Patent and Trademark Bar. Congratulations!
Mary Louise Tweel Haddad has written a book titled “Al – Kfeir in America”. She was introduced and sponsored by Joseph B. Touma, MD and the book is being sold at Holy Spirit Orthodox Church, Huntington, WV as a fund raiser.
Edward Saad was inducted into the University of KY College of Engineering Hall of Distinction. Edward earned his PhD from UK in chemical engineering and was one of six inductees.
Nicholas Joseph, our Kfeirian Ambassador is standing in front of the Ocean Dunes / Sand Dunes Villas, Myrtle Beach, SC sign. Nicholas received recognition for his outstanding & dedicated service as our Ambassador!
Nathan Fleshman
Congratulations to Nathan Fleshman who was honored at a Boy Scouts of America Eagle Court of Honor ceremony on November 17, 2013. A very high honor to be proud of! Nathan is the son of Debbie Fleshman from Las Vegas, NV.
Congratulations to Nathan Fleshman who was honored at a Boy Scouts of America Eagle Court of Honor ceremony on November 17, 2013. A very high honor to be proud of! Nathan is the son of Debbie Fleshman from Las Vegas, NV.
Sandy Mickel Ruder
On September 20, 2013, Sandy was inducted into the Hermitage High School Hall of Fame after 20 years of service.
On September 20, 2013, Sandy was inducted into the Hermitage High School Hall of Fame after 20 years of service.
Garrett Russell
On Sunday, April 14, 2013, Garrett Russell was honored at an Eagle Ceremony recognizing him for his outstanding accomplishments in scouting. Garrett designed, planned and provided leadership for a Children's playground at his church in Richmond, VA. Garrett graduated from Glen Allen High School in June 2013 and is attending J. Sargent Reynolds Community College. Garrett is the son of Ron and Denise Mickel Russell and grandson of the late Mitchell and Linda Thabet Mickel.
On Sunday, April 14, 2013, Garrett Russell was honored at an Eagle Ceremony recognizing him for his outstanding accomplishments in scouting. Garrett designed, planned and provided leadership for a Children's playground at his church in Richmond, VA. Garrett graduated from Glen Allen High School in June 2013 and is attending J. Sargent Reynolds Community College. Garrett is the son of Ron and Denise Mickel Russell and grandson of the late Mitchell and Linda Thabet Mickel.
Sherry Mickel Parrish
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) named Sherry Mickel Parrish as a Social Work Pioneer for 2012. The professional achievement honor was presented at the NASW Foundation awards luncheon in Washington, DC.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) named Sherry Mickel Parrish as a Social Work Pioneer for 2012. The professional achievement honor was presented at the NASW Foundation awards luncheon in Washington, DC.