The Smyth County Tourism Association has announced the winners of the 2011-2012 Virginia Mountains’ Most Beautiful People promotion. These people were nominated for their volunteer and service to their community with nominations sometimes several pages long telling of their accomplishments and volunteer work.
The winners, with only brief biographies, are:
William H. Baldwin, Sugar Grove: A dedicated veteran, Bill is a leader in all phases of the Marion VFW, especially Memorial Day services. Active in Habitat for Humanity, and Smyth County Humane Society. Bill was nominated by John Barton.
Herbert “Chub” Arnold, Saltville: “Service to Others” describes Chub Arnold. Known for his feats with the Saltville Alkalies Baseball team, Chub has spent his life working with the youth of Saltville and being a “good and faithful servant” to his Christ and his neighbors. Chub was nominated by Linda Stone and Don Smith.
Dr. Wayne C. Reynolds, Smyth County: A full-time internal medicine physician, Dr. Reynolds is a firefighter for the Chilhowie Fire Department. He is also a pilot and volunteers his time and plane for “Angel Flights,” an organization of pilots who transport those of need to medical facilities. Dr. Reynolds was nominated by Jeannie Haynes.
Edna Bonham Love, Chilhowie: Edna is synonymous with “art” in Smyth County. The Art Place on Main Street in Chilhowie has served as her monument to the arts, teaching and supporting, and funding, a new culture to countless current and former students. A legend in Chilhowie and the arts, Edna Love is a true ambassador for Smyth County. Edna was nominated by Kathryn Beattie.
Bonnie Henley, Chilhowie Valley Health Care Center: An assisted living resident at Valley Health Care, Bonnie is one who cares and looks out for the other residents, running errands, helping with activities. Described by a staff member as not only caring and taking care of the other residents but also staff members. A caring person with a capital C. Bonnie was nominated by Jan Coughlin and the staff of Valley.
Raymond Cross, Saltville/Meadowview: Raymond oversees the Bread Of Life Food Pantry in Saltville, spending endless hours in his volunteer work. Raymond is truly an inspiration to many people in his community who depend on him and the Bread of Life. Raymond goes above and beyond the call of duty serving his community. Raymond was nominated by Joella Smith and Amy Frye.
Hannah Call, Saltville: Hannah has served the Saltville Little League for many years, does fundraisers for the Ronald McDonald House, serves on the Rich Valley Elementary PTO Board, and also assists with the Santa Elves Program. Hannah has certainly given back to her community. Hannah was nominated by Carol Nutter.
Lynn and Marge Pease, Chilhowie: Lynn has been president and Marge, vice president of Chilhowie Friends of The Public Library for the last two terms. They both serve on the Friends of Chilhowie Riverside Park and both also volunteer for programs at the Lifetime Wellness Center and H.L. Bonham Tourism Center. The Peases were nominated by Mary Ryan.
Carl Preston “C.P.” Brickey Jr., Saltville/Rich Valley: The late C.P. Brickey was known for his humanitarian acts of kindness to all in his community. C.P. coached and worked with the Little League programs for many years and was also instrumental in establishing the local church softball leagues. He was a mentor and friend to youth and adults. C.P. was nominated by Frank Lewis.
Frank “T-Bone” Lewis, Saltville: 52 years serving Saltville as a teacher, coach, councilman, and mayor. He still volunteers his time working behind the scenes lending his experience and knowledge. Many things have been done to help others because of Frank Lewis: Frank was nominated by Dot Wyatt and Don Smith.
William G. Falkie, Marion: Bill Falkie has been instrumental in the success of the local Salvation Army. Working under the sponsorship of Marion VFW Post 4667, Bill helps administer the local Salvation Army’s mission and making it one of the top two in the state of Virginia. Bill was nominated by Bill Pugh.
Betty “Sue” Thompson, Marion: The success of the local Salvation Army is due to many people including Betty “Sue” Thompson whose dedication and organizational skills make the men and women volunteers of Marion VFW Post 4667 an outstanding unit. Betty was nominated by Bill Pugh.
-- Smyth County Tourism Association
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