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Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Nitro High School-Viet Nam-Some Gave All

I visited the Traveling Viet Nam War Memorial Wall, Oakes Field, South Charleston, on May 25 and did these 2 pencil rubbings....Both were excellent young men and classmates.






Monday, June 04, 2012

Nitro High School WV, Obituaries and News, Memories and Photos

Bob Robert Layton, NHS 68
Mr. Robert Lee "Butch" Layton, 67, of St. Albans, formerly of Nitro, left this earth to go to his eternal home on March 28, 2017. Mr. Layton retired from Dotson Pest Control and was a former employee of FMC. Butch had a spiritual musical gift from God and played in Spyce rock band. His brothers were the musicians. He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Louise Layton. He is survived by his loving wife Dee Layton; children Scott Layton, Gary Layton, Sierra Layton and Bryan Machowicz; sister Helena Reed and grandson Bodhi. Butch was also adopted and loved by Dee's side of the family. A tribute to the life of Butch will be noon, Saturday, April 1, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Richard Neal officiating. Burial will follow in Haven of Rest Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 Eighteenth Street, NW Washington, DC 20006-3517. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hardingfamilygroup.com. Gatens-Harding Funeral Home, 147 Main St., Poca, is serving the Layton family.- See more at: gazettemail.com/Obituaries#sthash.tWN80ip2.dpuf


Ruth Santrock was a resident of Nitro for more than 70 years. She leaves a legacy of caring and support to her family, church and school. She was born October 11, 1921, in Kanawha City, and died in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on August 25, 2012. She became a member of the First Baptist Church of Nitro in 1938 and in the last several years had been its oldest member. For many decades Ruth was a soloist in the choir, singing not only in the choir each Sunday but also for numerous weddings and funerals. She also was an Elsie Kittlitz circle member and a deaconess at the church. She began working as the secretary at Nitro High School in 1944 and retired in 1975 when her husband, John, became superintendant of Kanawha County schools. She is fondly remembered by many people in the Nitro community, including parents and students, for her wide range of contributions to the school. For almost two decades, during summers Ruth also handled the managerial duties for the Pro Shop at the Charleston Tennis Club. In the late 1980s she and her husband, John, began living in Davie, Fla., during the winter months, where their daughter, Shauna, lives, and visiting their son, John, in Plano, Texas, every October, where she enjoyed celebrating her birthday, often with her relatives coming to join her in Texas. Ruth Santrock was a loving wife, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by two children, John W. Santrock (wife, Mary Jo) of Plano, Texas, and Shauna Hampshire (husband, Don) of Davie, Fla.; three grandchildren, Tracy Santrock of Cary, N.C., Jennifer Santrock of San Antonio, Texas, and Stephanie Hampshire of Rockville, Md.; and three great-grandchildren, Jordan Bowles of Dallas, Texas, and Alex and Luke Bellucci of San Antonio, Texas. William Gene Rhodes Sr., 69, of Cross Lanes, passed away at Hubbard Hospice House West on August 12, 2012. He was born in Charleston on March 21, 1943, a son of the late Matt Clair and Maggie Alice Fields Rhodes. He was a former employee of FMC Corp., where he was employed as a fabricator. Mr. Rhodes was a member of the Baptist church, the Moose Lodge and loved to build and race drag cars. He set many world racing records and was a member of the National Hot Rod Association. He is survived by a son and his wife, William "Bill" and Kim Rhodes Jr. of Cross Lanes; brother, Johnny Otmer Rhodes of Cross Lanes; sister, Frances Norene Rhodes of Cross Lanes; and his faithful companion, Thor "Pee Wee," his beloved dog. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Clyde Maford Rhodes and Matt Clair Rhodes Jr.; sister, Irene Rhodes; and nephew, Richard W. Rhodes. Junior Adam Withrow, 88, of Nitro, was called home to be with Jesus on July 30, 2012, after an extended illness. He was a born-again Christian and was a member of West Virginia Home Mission Church, Nitro. After his conversion at age 61, he liked to play bluegrass gospel music at local churches and nursing homes as long as he was able. Junior served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked at the Ohio Apex chemical plant in Nitro, which later became FMC, and retired from there in 1983. He was preceded in death by his wife of almost 55 years, Alma Jean Withrow, in 2004. He is survived by son and his wife, Richard Withrow "Ric" and Arleen Withrow; grandson, Jeffery Jividen; nephews, Carroll Withrow, Gary Withrow, Ronald Withrow, James Withrow, Lowell Withrow and Paul Withrow; niece, Bea Asbury; nephews, James Humphreys and Greg Haverty; niece, Ann Smithson; and his sister-in-law, Freda Haverty.

Linda Lee Plumley, 60, of Cross Lanes, was called to her eternal home on July 12, 2012. She was born in Charleston, a daughter of the late William R. and Irene Wallace. She was a 1970 graduate of South Charleston High School and retired from St. Francis Hospital in 1991. Linda was a devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was extremely proud of her only granddaughter, Samantha Leigh. Linda's life revolved around her family, pets and friends, who cherished her deeply. She was a member of Roxalana Gospel Tabernacle of Dunbar. Linda is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Tom Plumley; her loving daughter, Shannon Wallace and her companion, Randy Fisher, of Given; cherished granddaughter, Samantha Leigh of Given; sisters and their husbands, Diana and Greg Brown of South Charleston and Phyllis and Roy Wolfe of Dunbar; brother, Dick Wallace of Charlotte, N.C.; her pet "babies," Precious, Daisy Mae and Callie; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends who mourn her passing.

Juanita Ruth Williams, 89, of Nitro passed away on Friday, July 13, 2012, at her home.
She was born in Whitesville and was preceded in death by her parents; brothers; sister; and daughter, Deborah Sue Williams Casto. Juanita is survived by her husband, Charles Edward "Eddie" Williams. They would have celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary August 2, 2012. She is also survived by grandsons, Rusty Casto and wife, Bobbie, of Liberty, and Joey Casto and wife, Amber, of Cross Lanes; great-grandsons, Joshua, Dakota, Isaac and Elijah; and a host of other family and friends.

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Slater Miller was born October 16, 1924. On June 27, 2012, she went to be with her Lord and Savior. She was reunited with her beloved husband, Dick; her parents, Bob and Rosie Slater; her baby boy, Willard; and brothers, Sam and Darrel Slater. She is survived by her sons, Olden and Carolyn of Elkview and Kenny and Janet of Nitro; daughters, Linda and Bob Fields of Nitro and Gail and Jerry Bailey of Medina; grandchildren, Greg Miller, Jeanette Mikael, Todd Miller, Chris Miller, Jason Hicks, Josh Bailey and Jeremiah Bailey; and great-grandchildren, Dustan Miller, Chelsie Mikael, Cody Miller, Ivy Miller, Bratch Bailey and Trent Bailey.

Robert "Bob" Louis Dawson was called home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 23, 2012.
Bob was affectionately known as "Bear" to family, friends and all who loved him. When not wearing his handyman hat for family and friends to fix cars, boats or other projects, Bob enjoyed hunting and woodworking with his son, Mark, and mutual friends. At the end of the day, spending time with family was his most cherished pastime. Bob was born June 10, 1928, in Canton, Ill., to the late Arthur D. Dawson and Edith M. Dawson. He was educated in Beaumont, Texas and Toledo, Ohio, before joining and serving in the Merchant Marines from 1945-1946. Service being important to Bob led him to serve in the U.S. Air Force from 1946-1949. After serving his country, Bob moved to Nitro and spent 37 years working for Monsanto Chemical. Survivors include the love of his life and wife of 63 years, Dolly G. Dawson; children, Debra D. Debbie Dawson Houser and husband, Doug, of Scott Depot, Vicki Dawson D.D. Kiner and husband, Clarke, of Galena, Ohio, and Mark J. Dawson and wife, Pamella, of Scott Depot; grandchildren, Brandon Houser, Sierra and Jamison Kiner; great-grandchildren, Isabella, Olivia and Josiah; sisters, Natalie Mitchell of Michigan, and Sally Tittle of Ohio; and brother, Jerry Dawson of Alabama.

Mr. Timothy R. Boothe, 45, of Cross Lanes passed away on May 31, 2012, after a tragic accident at work.
He was born October 10, 1966, and was a 1984 graduate of Nitro High School. He was employed by WVDOH. He loved the outdoors and spending time with family and friends on many hunting trips in Pocahontas County during deer season. He was excellent archer and had recently started a small business "Natures Voice Game Calls," making turkey calls which have been sold and used successfully by hunters in many states across the U.S. and in professional turkey calling contests. Tim is preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Mary Neal and Carl "Chip" and Blanche Boothe; and father and mother-in-law, Dallas and Alice Smith. He is survived by his "high school sweetheart" and wife of 25 years, Beverly Smith Boothe of Cross Lanes; daughter, Jessica Boothe and soon to be husband, Justin Boyd, of Nitro; son, Justin Boothe and Brittany Layton of Cross lanes; parents, Carl and Beverly Boothe of Cross Lanes; sister, Angie and husband, Jody Moore, of Abington, Va.; brother, Mike and wife, Rachael Boothe, of Cross Lanes; grandsons, Jordan and Josiah Boyd of Nitro, and Carter Boothe of Cross Lanes; granddaughter, Jaylynn Boyd of Nitro; a grandson due in June; and a grandbaby due in November. He is also survived by nieces, Kayla Moore, and Kaci Boothe; nephew, Trevor Boothe; plus many aunts, uncles and cousins whom he dearly loved.

Samuel Mike Holleron Sr., 92, of Nitro passed away on Friday, June 1, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House West in South Charleston. Mike was born in Jackson County on Cavin Fork on August 3, 1919, and was the son of the late Ebert and Elizabeth Craig Holleron. He was retired from American Viscose in Nitro with 36 years of service, was a Navy Veteran of World War II, and a member of Nitro Church of Christ. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Pauline Holleron, on March 20, 2011; and by eight brothers and sisters. Mike is survived by his daughter, Linda Holleron of Nitro; sons, Richard Holleron, Robert Holleron, and Samuel Holleron Jr., all of Nitro; granddaughters, Nancy Holleron Massey and Kristin Holleron Booth; grandson, Rich Holleron; and great-grandson, Michael Massey.

William "Bill" Henry Lanham, 77, passed away Monday, May 21, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House. Originally a West Virginia native and graduate of Nitro High School, Bill spent 38 years in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., working for Pan American World Airways at Kennedy Space Center as an air conditioner and heating mechanic. After retiring, he relocated back to West Virginia, where he was a resident for the last 15 years. Bill was married to Lois Lanham, his "bride" of 55 years. He was a proud father of his son, French (Janet) Lanham of Florida; and daughters, Barbara (Marson) Kay of Clendenin, Delinda Funk and Greg Roboniwitz of Florida and Billie (Larry) Hall of Pennsylvania. He was a proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren, and proud great-grandfather of 11 great-grandchildren. Bill was a devoted Christian, a layman whose life centered around serving God, his church and his community. He fought a good fight, he finished the course and he kept the faith, and he has now received his crown of righteousness.

Mr. James Jimmie W. Dye, 57, of Bancroft passed away May 17, 2012, at CAMC Teays Valley Hospital. Jim was a retired chemical operator from DuPont; a member of Elizabeth Baptist Church; and a member of the Road Riders for Jesus. He was also a former volunteer for Bancroft Fire Department. He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Flora May Dye; and brother, Ronnie Dye. Jim is survived by his girlfriend, Janice Gumm of Winfield; daughters, Kristen Bailey and husband, Kenneth, of Poca, Bethany Adkins and husband, David, of Milton and Melody Bailey and husband, Derek, of Nitro, and their mother, Tena Dye; brothers, Larry Dye and wife, Sharron, of Nitro and David Dye and wife, Cindy, of Dunbar; sister, Sue Dye Belcher and husband, Charlie, of Orlando, Fla.; and a host of nieces and nephews.


Mildred Marie Bockway, 93, of South Charleston passed away Sunday morning, May 6, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. She was born May 23, 1918, the daughter of Noah and Fairy Miller of Turtle Creek, Boone County. She was a retired teacher from West Virginia public schools, having taught for 24 years, most of it at Nitro High School. Mildred was educated in Boone County public schools and held a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Marshall University. Upon graduating from college she was a home economist for Appalachian Power Company in the early 1940s.
She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of South Charleston, its J.O.Y. Sunday school class, and the American Baptist Women Ministries. Her hobbies and joys included traveling, bowling, crossword puzzles, and participating in the water aerobics class at the South Charleston Recreation Center for over 20 years until her health no longer permitted it. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, William "Bill" Bockway; son, Paul; brother, Shelby Miller; sisters, Elta Abel, Lavely Cook, and Ersie West; and nieces, Patsy Cook McCarty and Carolyn West Lyons.

The late Rose Ellen Ramsey (NHS 66 and sister of deceased Richard Butch Ramsey NHS 68) Cline's husband passed on. James W. "Bill" Cline, 73, of Charleston died on April 23, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. James was self-employed, and was usually found tinkering around in the garage when he wasn't out visiting his buddies. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Ellen Ramsey; parents, Jesse O. Cline and Mollie Bell Schoonover Cline; and brother, Henry Cline.

April 17, 2012
Nitro Council meets roller girls by Mary Childress, For the Daily Mail
http://dailymail.com/News/201204170249
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Heart of Appalachia is rolling into Nitro.
Nitro City Council members were introduced to the Heart of Appalachia roller derby team during a meeting Tuesday. The women will compete in the rink starting at 7 p.m. April 28, at the Nitro Community Center. They will have a flat track, not a banked one, but promised to get rough and tumble during the games. The team will play at the community center for several Saturday nights in a row. Tickets are $10 per person and available at the door on competition nights.

Howard R. Cook, 82, of Nitro passed away at home Thursday, April 12, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. He was a lifelong resident of Nitro; a graduate of Nitro High School; former employee of American Viscose; former employee of Teague and Sons; a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War; and attended Nitro Church of the Nazarene. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Lena Mae Fowler Cook; his wife, Virginia Angell Cook; son, James Cook; brother, Harold Cook; and sisters, Betty Cook Sizemore and Dorothy Cook Buckenheimer. Howard is survived by his daughters, Rebecca Cook Martin and husband, Dana, Debbie Cook Rollyson and husband, Mark, Amy Cook Estep and Kim Cook Miller and husband, Kent; sons, Robert Cook and wife, Lucy, and John Cook and wife, Becky; sister, Viola Long and husband, Jay; 21 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Steve White, Nitro High School, Hall of Fame

"Lifetime Service to Wrestling" award, class of 2006.


Coach White receives award from Mike Clair, State Chapters Director, National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Steve White -- "Lifetime Service to Wrestling".

Coach Steve White wrestled and graduated from Nitro High School. He also earned a BA degree from West Virginia State University. A Vietnam veteran, White was awarded 3 Purple Hearts and 3 Bronze Stars for his valor in the conflict.

As an outstanding official for 25 years, Steve White refereed 11 Regional Tournaments and numerous West Virginia State Championships.

In 1973, White became head wrestling coach at Nitro Junior High School, where his teams never experienced defeat for five years. He then took on the duties of head wrestling coach at Nitro High School. Over 22 years at the helm, Coach White's teams earned six top-10 finishes at the state tournament, including third-place team honors.

During this time, Coach White produced 11 state champions, 4 runner-ups, and 21 state placers. He had three individual state champs in 2001 (Matt Easter, Chris Johnson, and Robbie Ripley) and in 2003 (Anthony Easter, Matt Easter, and Mitch Casto). In fact, Matt Easter was the second 4-time state champion and an All-American. Coach White was named the regional coach of the year 3 times (1990, 1994, and 2000) for his efforts as a highly successful mat mentor.

Steve and his wife, Carole, reside in Winfield. They have two children, Danielle and Steve, along with six grandchildren (another on the way).

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Megan Clemons, swim champion, Nitro High School, WV

CONGRATULATIONS!
200 freestyle - 1, Megan Clemens, Nitro 1:56.59. 2, Katie Murto, Morganatown 1:57.04. 3, Abby Hendershot, Parkersburg 1:59.35. 4, Cecelia Jebbia, Wheeling Park 2:00.58. 5, Allison Moore, George Washington 2:05.02. 6, Bekah Shephard, Morgantown 2:05.99. 7, Gacek, Heather M, GWHS, 2:06.54. 8, Holland, Luisa, JEFF, 2:07.64. 9, Caitie Preaskorn, Notre Dame 2:07.93. 10, Christa Varner, Elkins 2:08.65. 11, Perry McGhee, George Washingotn 2:09.73. 12, Claire Coleman, Hurricane 2:10.25.

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

Continuing Nitro High School WV news, obits, and updates Feb. 2012

Margaret June Lanham Jackson, 84, of Cross Lanes passed away March 14, 2012, at 1:20 a.m. at CAMC General. Margaret was born in Charleston, the daughter of the late Russell and Rev. Oma Parsons Lanham. She was a faithful and longtime member of Fairview Methodist Church, Cross Lanes. She loved the Lord, and lived a life of service to Him. Margaret was an avid reader, and enjoyed cross stitching "art" for each member of her family. Margaret has so many wonderful family and friends who will sorely miss her. She shared her entire life with her childhood friend, Dortha McNeil of Florida. Others who held a special place in her heart are Kathy Turley, Sherry Lucareli and Dr. Sarah Neace, who cared for her many years. Survivors include two sons and their wives, Jim Jackson and Suzan Jackson of Franklin, Tenn., and Eddie Jackson and Pat Jackson of Milton; brother and his wife, Bill and Dean Lanham of Cross Lanes; sister and husband, Doris and Clyde Ash of Greenville, S.C.; brother-in-law and wife, Harold and Dreama Turley of Cross Lanes; grandchildren, Margaret adored, Cindy, Jamie, Joey, David and Angie and their families. Margaret was the proud great-grandmother of eight great-grandchildren. She loved her nieces and nephews, Bev, Chuck, Lisa, Dreama, Bruce, Susan and Jane.

Mabel Louise Sizemore Finney, 87, of Nitro passed away Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House West, South Charleston. Mabel was a 70-year resident of Nitro, and a former employee of Frankenberger's, Valley Bell and Nitro Church of God. She was a member of Nitro Church of God, the CWC and Friendship Sunday School Class. Mabel was also a member of the Women's Auxiliary of the Nitro Post of the VFW. She was the daughter of the late William and Caroline Riser Sizemore, and was also preceded in death by her sisters and brothers, Margaret Buckley, Virginia Akers, Mattie Jeffers, Owen, Guy, Eli, John, Danny and Bill Sizemore; and granddaughter, Tracy Ann Meadows. Mabel is survived by her daughter, Karen Finney Hartney and husband, Joe, of Scott Depot; son, Ivan Meadows and wife, Sally, of Nitro; grandchildren, Dean Meadows, Doug Meadows, Joe Hartney and Mary Beth Browning; and great-grandchildren, Zach Meadows, Bradley Meadows, Bryson Meadows, Ethan Hartney and Emma Hartney.

Phyllis Nottingham Dawson, 82, of Nitro completed her earthly journey on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House. She has gone to be with our Lord God in Heaven to suffer no longer on this earth. Born May 13, 1929 in Swandale, W.Va., she was the daughter of the late Coleman D. and Victoria Mae Nottingham. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Dennis E. "Tom" Dawson. She was retired from General Electric Credit Corporation, Heck's Inc. and the Poca River Hunting and Fishing Club. She was a 1946 graduate of Clay County High School, often riding to school in the steam engine of a logging train from Swandale to Clay. Phyllis' greatest pleasure in life was her family. Always sacrificing her needs and wants to take care of and provide for them through the good times and those that were sometimes difficult. She thoroughly enjoyed and loved cooking for her immediate family, as well as her extended family, which consisted of many, many people who she loved and cared for greatly. A complete master at culinary improvisation, she would cook any time you were hungry. It was well known by all who had the pleasure of experiencing her home cooking, if you ever left PD's house hungry, it certainly wasn't her fault. She was the consummate big meal specialist, always ready to feed the masses with a come one, come all attitude. Her love for cooking shall live on forever, as she spent many hours putting together and printing PD's Country Cooking Cookbook for her family and friends to enjoy. In her cookbook, one can find most of the ingredients for her top "secret" recipes. She leaves to cherish her memory her three children, Melanie and her husband, Allen Rader, of Eleanor, Dennis E. Jr., "Denny," and his companion, Mara Pauley, of Nitro and Larry and his wife, Debbie, of St. Albans. She also cherished and dearly loved her grandchildren, Carina Ferrell and husband, Thomas, Matt Dawson and wife, Angie, Elizabeth Morgan and husband, Scottie, Michael Dawson, Krysta Dawson and Mauro Medina, Eric Rader and wife, Stephanie, Rebecca and husband, Yonne McHenry, Jason Rader and Travis and Tony Stone. Just as special to her were her great-grandchildren, Cailey, Arika and Bubba Ferrell, Stephen and Norah Rader, Brandon and Jake Dawson and Maurito and Javier Medina.


Bridget Beth Melvin, 27, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away Wednesday, February 22, 2012, after a courageous battle with lupus. She was born September 24, 1984, in Charleston to Paul Robert and Patricia Melvin of Charleston. She was a first grade teacher at Troutman Elementary School, Troutman, N.C. She was a collegiate swimmer with Wingate University, and was also a member of the Nitro High School State Championship Swim Team, Nitro. She was a former member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Nitro, and attended St. Therese Catholic Church in Mooresville. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her fiance, Jarod William Demmons of Mooresville; sisters, Melissa Melvin of Raleigh, N.C., and Pamela Melvin and husband, Jacob Martin Morris, of Durham, N.C.; and her beloved dogs, Piper and Bailey.

William "Bill" P. Harris, 91, of Cross Lanes departed this life Sunday, February 19, 2012, at his home following a short illness. He was a loving and devoted father who will be greatly missed by family and friends. He was a retired World War II Seabee Navy veteran. Over the years, he had affiliations with the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was a retired pipefitter, having worked at Union Carbide in South Charleston for over 43 years. Bill faithfully attended Calvary Baptist Church in Hurricane, where his wife is a member.
Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Ruby Harris; and three children, Pamela Harris Radford Anderson of Hurricane, Barbara Harris Jones of Catlettsburg, Ky., and Patrick Harris of Charleston. Bill is also survived by four grandchildren, Sara Austin of Saline, Mich., Missionary Nathan Radford of Kitale, Kenya, East Africa, Christy Reed of Mt. Orab, Ohio, and Michael Jones of Cincinnati, Ohio; as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Eric Douglas, Class of 1985, Nitro High School WV

The following article appeared in the Charleston Gazette, 1/16/2012



Here is a link to the Charleston Gazette article:

http://wvgazette.com/Life/201201160085

January 16, 2012 Diving writer Eric Douglas comes up for air By Bill Lynch
Photo by Lawrence Pierce

Cross Lanes native, scuba diver and aquatic author Eric Douglas has returned home to stay after nearly 15 years away.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The people you meet often can change the course of your life. It happened to Eric Douglas.

He recently sat, sipping iced tea in the Bluegrass Kitchen, and explained how things began to change for him after he sat down at an interview, not unlike this one, 20 years ago with Barry Bishop, a renowned mountain climber and writer/editor for National Geographic magazine.

Bishop, the chairman for the National Geographic Society's Committee for Research and Exploration, spoke at West Virginia Tech in 1991.

Back then Douglas was a reporter for the Charleston Newspapers' Metro section. He'd scarcely been out of journalism school more than a year. For an eager young journalist, the chance to talk to someone from a major national magazine was a plum opportunity.

"Dr. Bishop came to give a talk," Douglas said. "And after I'd got what I needed for the interview, I asked him, 'How do you get to work for National Geographic?'" Bishop's answer was blunt. A writer like Douglas didn't have much of a shot. He told Douglas, "We only hire established writers. So go write a couple of books, go write for some magazines and travel."

Bishop didn't promise anything. He just told him where to start.

Douglas grinned broadly: "And that's where my life has been headed the last 20 years."

He has written books, among them three novels and a children's book, "The Sea Turtles," that's being published this spring as a serial through the Newspapers in Education program.

He's written for magazines, most notably Scuba Diving, where he has a regular column called "Lessons for Life." Douglas has also traveled the world, explored the ocean and lived a coastal life that might seem very alien to a kid growing up in the landlocked West Virginia.

"But I got my first 60 dives at Summersville Lake," Douglas added.

Douglas got into diving right out of college.

"It was just something I'd wanted to do for a while," he said.

Douglas grew up in Cross Lanes, graduated from Nitro High School in 1985 then went to Marshall University, where he studied journalism.

He joined the Metro staff in 1990. By the summer, he decided to take some diving lessons at Summersville Lake. It was just a hobby.

When he met Bishop, a spark was lit. He started looking for opportunities. In 1993, he got one.

After the fall of communism in the former Soviet Union, the vast country was trying to put itself back together. The education system was in shambles. A group of educators from West Virginia were part of a team invited to Russia to help them restore their curriculum.

"A friend invited me to go along," he said. "So I took out a loan and went.

"It was my first plane ride."

The first trip was two weeks. Fifteen months later, he went back to Russia. Then that August, he returned again and stayed for three months, writing freelance.

"After that I really needed to get a job," he laughed.

Douglas went back to work. Meanwhile, he developed his writing. In 1998, he decided to take a refresher course on diving. During the course, he met the director of the Professional Association of Dive Instructors. The association published a magazine through their Diving Science and Technology division, and they needed an editor.

The job, however, was in California.

Douglas had recently gotten married. His wife was from Charleston. He asked her, "So what do you think about moving to California?"

He said she told him to go for it. The two of them moved west where Douglas wrote for the magazine and went on hundreds of dives in the Pacific Ocean.

"I learned a lot while I was there," he said. "I learned a lot about underwater photography and even topside photography and design."

Two years later, Douglas took a job with a company in North Carolina that specialized in the production of diving medicine. Douglas continued to write and also worked on his first novel, "Cayman Cowboys," published in 2004. Other books followed, and Douglas wrote for several ocean-related magazines.

Douglas' marriage ended in 2010. His ex-wife and two daughters moved back to West Virginia while he stayed on the coastline of North Carolina, but the biweekly grind of driving back and forth to see his daughters wore him out.

"And it seemed to me that in this day and age you can do a lot of the kind of thing I do from anywhere," he said.

All you need is an Internet connection.

Douglas has been back for a little over two months. He's closer to his children and also to his family. Many of them never left.

"I can't get over how much things have changed," he marveled. "There are a lot of things here that you just didn't see much of 20 years ago."

He motioned to the restaurant in which he was sitting.

"A place like this," he said. "You didn't see that. Everything in Charleston back in the early 1990s was mainly chain places. It was very generic."

There's more character here, he believes. The city and the state are more sophisticated and diverse than he remembers, and part of what he wants to do now is show that.

"I've always been proud to be from West Virginia," he said. "It was very frustrating sometimes. I'd meet people and they'd catch the accent and ask me where I was from."

Certain negative stereotypes, Douglas said, persist and too many people from the outside perpetuate them.

"I don't think West Virginia does a very good job of telling our stories," he said. "So what you end up with is 'The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia.'"

The documentary film, produced in part by daredevil reality show "Jackass" creators Johnny Knoxville and Jeff Tremaine, followed the exploits of the notorious White family in Boone County.

The film is not seen as a positive representation of life in West Virginia.

Douglas said while living in North Carolina, he earned a certificate from the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University.

"It kind of relit those journalism fires," he said.

Among other things, Douglas would like to maybe teach what he's learned to other people, help them tell their stories.

"There's more truth to West Virginia than just the Whites."

Douglas hasn't given up on his dreams of writing for National Geographic. He's still working toward that, but life has a funny way of taking you in odd directions.

After Douglas went to Russia and wrote a few things, he corresponded with Bishop at National Geographic. He sent some of his newspaper and magazine clippings. Bishop was kind enough to critique them and encourage him to keep pushing outward.

Bishop died in 1994.

"He died in a car accident," Douglas said. "He was one of the first Americans to summit Mount Everest. He traveled with Admiral Byrd and died in a car accident near his home."

Reach Bill Lynch at ly...@wvgazette.com or 304-348-5195.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Continuing Nitro High School WV news, obits, and updates Jan. 2012



Howard H. Stewart, 82, of Nitro entered into heaven's gate February 10, 2012. Born March 14, 1929, to Homer and Grace Stewart of Whitesville. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Evelyn and Delphia; brother, Roy Stewart; and grandson, Jeffrey Scott Hayes. Howard was a Korean War veteran. He was a Bell Lines driver for many years, and Teamster, before retiring from Smith Transfer. Howard was a former member of the Clown Unit with Beni Kedem Shrine, and a volunteer driver, transporting children to the Shriner's Hospitals. Howard is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty; loving father to son, Jeff Stewart of Nitro; son, David Stewart and wife, Sandy, of Nitro; daughter, Robin Stewart and husband, Jeff Hayes, of Scott Depot; granddaughters, Cassie Stewart and Katie Stewart of Nitro and Jennifer Stewart Stephens of Hurricane; and brother, Ronald Lyons of St. Albans. Howard was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Nitro where he enjoyed Sunday school, apple butter days and the men's fellowship breakfast.

Mr. Allen P. Burdette, 81, of Nitro went home to be with the Lord on February 13, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House West. Allen was the former owner of Burdette Garage, and a member and trustee of Valley Drive Church of God Mission. He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Ollie Burdette; brother, Robert Burdette; and sisters, Wilma Fore and Elizabeth Scarberry. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Mrs. Loretta Burdette; children, Randall and wife, Linda Burdette, of Fredericksburg, Va., and Sheila and husband, Bill Lewis, of St. Albans; brothers, Henry Burdette of Poca and Ray and wife, Louise Burdette, of Rock Branch; sister, Faye Grady of Rock Branch; two grandchildren, Dr. William K. Lewis IV and wife, Elizabeth, and Brandi Edens and husband, Allen; and three great-grandchildren, Allen Lee Edens, William Lewis V and Abigal Lewis.

http://dailymail.com/News/201202070249

Date of Nitro-St. Albans bridge closure announced by Mary Childress

NITRO, W.Va. -- The Nitro-St. Albans bridge will close Jan. 7, 2013, and the new span should be open by Thanksgiving of that year, Nitro Mayor Rusty Casto announced at Tuesday's city council meeting. Work should begin on shoring up the bridge piers by next week, Casto said. The current bridge will be imploded, but the piers will be kept in place. A new bridge will then be floated down the river and placed on the existing piers.

Rich Hively, Nitro historian, said the West Virginia Department of Transportation has agreed to give the city $20,000 to fund projects and activities associated with the closing of the bridge. "We will have a bridge dedication booklet that we'll share with St. Albans," he said, "and publish a history of the bridge booklet, among other things. "We've been told that the bridge will be imploded in the middle first," he said. "So, we hope to have a contest that would allow someone from Nitro and someone from St. Albans to push the buttons that would blow up the middle from both sides of the river."

Right now, Nitro depends on firefighters from St. Albans to assist in some emergency situations. Fire Chief Ernie Hedrick said he had contacted officials in the Dunbar and Tyler Mountain fire departments to assist the city after the closure of the bridge.

Seven-year-old Evie Hunt was honored as Nitro's citizen of the month. A first grader at Nitro Elementary School, Evie single-handedly raised $1,000 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The school had set a goal of raising $1,500 and she raised $1,000 on her own.

"I sang a song and my mom put it on Facebook and a whole bunch of people sent money," she said.

Evie is the daughter of Brian and Kimberly Hunt. She received a certificate and a $25 gift card to Dairy Queen.

The West Virginia Department of Highways has awarded Nitro a $25,000 Recreational Trail Grant to complete the walking trail around Ridenour Lake Nitro WV .

Councilman Craig Matthews said the city must also come up with $4,900 as part of the grant agreement. The city will use its own labor force for the work, Matthews said.

Mr. Albert Donn Richardson, 79, of Nitro passed away February 6, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. He was a retired electrician from Rhone-Poulenc with 38 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Hattie Richardson. Albert is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mrs. Gwendolia Richardson; children, Jim Richardson and wife, Jodi Richardson, Brenda Richardson Davis and fiance, Shannon Ratcliff, Shari Richardson and husband, Mark Wilson, and Roy Richardson; eight grandchildren, Kendra, Bobbie, Jami, Josh, Jimmy, William Keith, Morgan and Jay; and eight great-grandchildren.

Donald R. "Dick" Lewis, or "Nitro," as his friends called him, peacefully passed away from complications due to lung cancer on January 31, 2012. Dick was born December 2, 1938, in Nitro. After serving his country in the Navy for six years, he married his wife, Crystal, and settled in Titusville, Fla., where he retired from Florida Power & Light at the Port St. John Plant in 1994. Dick lovingly leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Crystal Lewis; son, Dana R. Lewis; daughter, Tracy Lewis Mascellino; six grandchildren, Lee Jones, Kyle Jones, Becca Mascellino, Dalton R. Lewis, Abby Mascellino and Danielle R. Lewis; one great-granddaughter, Jordan Jones; as well as his father, Mervin Gibson of Scott Depot; brother, Danny R. Lewis of Scott Depot; sister, Brenda (Ronnie) Matthews of Winfield; and many nieces and nephews who loved him and will miss him dearly. Let us not forget his faithful friend, Maggie, who loved her daddy. Dick was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Gibson; his sister, Carol Lewis Forloine; and his sister-in-law, Donna Lewis, also from Scott Depot.

Elizabeth A. Johnson Stalnaker, 45, passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2012. She was born in Charleston, W.Va., on January 5, 1967, the daughter of the Rev. James L. and Nila Johnson. She was preceded in death by her father.

She is survived by her husband, Timothy Stalnaker of Nashville, Tenn.; her mother of Charleston; two brothers, MSgt. Rob Johnson and wife Keta Johnson of Valley Lee, Md.; MSgt. David Johnson and wife Ginny Johnson of Charleston; six nieces; and two nephews. She leaves behind her beloved Rottweiler, Baron.

Elizabeth was a 1985 graduate of Nitro High School, Nitro, W.Va., attended Concord College, and became a licensed paralegal. Elizabeth was a certified property manager (CPM) for H.G. Hill Realty Company, LLC. in Nashville, Tenn., and an active member and past officer with the Institute of Real Estate Management. She was an accomplished stained glass artist.

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/eyewitness/120122_8092.shtml

Reported by: Send eMail Kristin Keeling Web Producer: Kristin Keeling Reported: Jan. 22, 2012 6:58 PM EST Updated: Jan. 22, 2012 7:14 PM EST

A woman's murder in Charleston remains a mystery and her family is desperate for answers.

Megan Harrison's body was found in the Elk River last August. Since then, investigators have followed every possible lead that could bring them closer to finding her killer.

"We have some evidence in the case and we hope to obtain more, and we have some witnesses. But we need one more piece to the puzzle," said Chief of Detectives, Lt. Steve Cooper.

One more piece that Megan's parents hope to find by offering a $10,000 reward for anyone who knows how she died.

"I'm just praying like we do several times a day that this ten-thousand dollar reward will help and it will help us in our hearts to know we've done a little bit more for Megan," said Megan's mother, Ginger Harrison.

Roger and Ginger Harrison spent Sunday afternoon posting reward flyers around Charleston's east end and talking to people about their daughter along the way. They chose that area because Megan spent the last month of her life at Sojourner's shelter.

"I always say this about Megan, even though she did make some wrong choices in her life, she had the biggest heart and she would do anything for anybody. But God must have had another plan for her," said Ginger.

No amount of money can bring the Harrisons' daughter back to them. Until then, they will hold her memory close to their heart. In hopes that someone will come forward with information on her murder.

"We just pray that her soul is in Heaven and that someday we'll see her again. That helps us get through each day," said Ginger.

If you have any information of Megan Harrison's death, call the Charleston Detective Unit at 304-348-6480.

Correction: The ad placed on January 16, 2012, in the name of Carolyn Sue Beckner Townsend was unauthorized. It did not come from the funeral home or her husband and companion of 30 years, who knows all the truth. For 4 1/2 months, in two hospitals, fighting for her life, she never got 'Get Well' cards, flowers or visits from 95% of the people named in that ad. The ad did not tell Susie's life, hurts, injuries or all the illnesses she fought since her teens. The ad was specifically designed to boast about people who never cared, and to hurt and degrade her time on earth. It was meant to be cruel, betrayal and outright lies about her hospital abuses and all the medical errors, negligence and mistakes that took my wife's life. Authorized by A.E. Townsend, husband and companion of 30 years. Carolyn Susie Townsend, 64, of Cross Lanes was called to Heaven by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 11, 2012, to stop the enormous pain she suffered for years. She was the daughter of Virginia and James Beckner, born May 22, 1947. Her accomplishments were many, but they did not compare to her love and devotion to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and her husband and constant companion of 30 years, Arnold E. Townsend. She fought a very long battle with many different injuries and illnesses, but it doesn't touch the enormous pain, suffering, mental anguish, worry and loss of sleep, her little body constantly being stabbed with needles, the chemotherapy, the hundreds of X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and on and on. She made me promise I would tell some of her life's story, because she trusted me to do it. In 1985, Susie was hit head on by a drunk driver, who almost killed her. She went through two-and-a-half years of physical therapy to save her left arm. Her husband was there every day, and God protected her. She hated drunk drivers, so she supported MADD. Then, in 2000, she found a breast tumor. She had a lumpectomy, and it was ductal carcinoma in "situ" enclosed and it had never spread. Now, her medical records branded her with a history of breast cancer. One time does not make a history. She wanted all women to know how they can brand you. So then, she joined the American Cancer Society, and we get a magazine called Cure. In 2009, she was sent to get 15 days of radiation. At the end, she was told she was in remission, and the tumor was 98% healed. This was about August 2009. She was told she needed a small dose of Herceptin as a maintenance drug. When she went back to her foreign oncologist, he refused to honor her request for Herceptin. He gave her several chemo drugs she was highly allergic to; the main one was Docetaxel. In January 2010, that started her health downhill, after she was in remission and almost healed. All of 2010, 2011 and 11 days of 2012, she suffered, cried, constant bleeding, fear, worry, nervous breakdown, enormous mental anguish from all the sickness and the mental, physical and medical abuse, tests, errors from some doctors and some nurses - but God protected her. Then, after contracting several UTIs, one caused by a sulfa drug she was highly allergic to and is listed in her medical files. Her little body was worn out. She told me she could no longer stand the pain, even though she loved me more than life. I told her I understand, and God's been good to us. She said, yes He has. Then, a few hours later, she was taken to Heaven by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I was loving and kissing her face at 11:10 p.m. when she took her last breath. Like all the 30 years we were together, at the end, she and I were alone. God gave us that. God gave Susie rest, peace and, most of all, she is now pain free. God again protected her, just in a different way. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Also, at Susie's request, anyone who would have sent flowers, please send a donation to a cancer research organization in their area. Thoughts, prayers and condolences can be sent to P.O. Box 7223, Cross Lanes, WV 25313. She is dearly loved by her husband, best friend, companion, sweetheart of 30 years. By me she is already missed. She cannot be replaced.

Phyllis Jean Burdette, 81, formerly of Nitro and Charleston, passed away Friday, January 13, 2012, at CAMC General Hospital. She was formerly employed by Omaha Insurance Company. Surviving are her sons, William L. Burdette of Rock Cave and Russell Ray Burdette of Raymondville, Texas; grandchildren, William L. Burdette Jr. and Nikki Utt; great-grandchildren, Derek Tucker, Reanna Tucker, Khori Tucker, Warren Tucker, Waylon Utt, Taylor Burdette, Jordan Burdette, Noah Burdette and Colin Burdette.

Guy Dewey Hedrick, 63, of Nitro passed away January 19, 2012, in the VA Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. He was a member of the 15th St. Church of God in Nitro, and an Army veteran. Dewey was preceded in death by his father, Arnie W. Hedrick; and grandmother, Rosa Ellen Hedrick. He is survived by his sisters, Loredda Hedrick Kelley of Austin, Texas, and Ann Hedrick Toms of Nitro; brother, Arnie Hedrick Jr. of Dallas, Texas; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Troy D. "Dennie" Stover, 63, of Cross Lanes passed away Saturday, January 14, 2012. He was born October 3, 1948, in Charleston, son of the late Troy and Martha Stover. Troy was employed at West Virginia Steel for nearly 40 years. He was a Vietnam veteran and was a proud Marine. Surviving him are his wife of 20 years, Jodie Stover; son, Bryan (Tonya) Stover of Nitro; daughter, Tina (Charlie) Heffner of Nitro; stepson, Vernon Edens of Charleston; stepdaughter, Heather Edens of Charleston; Matt and Ann McDaniel, who he considered a son and daughter; brothers, Otis (Mary) Stover, Jimmy (Sharon) Stover, Johnny Stover and Rome Stover, all of Charleston, Alan Stover Of Emory, Texas, and Victor (Sharon) Stover of New Concord, Ky.; sisters, Bonnie (Ron) Flowers of Elkview and Barbara (Warren) Keifer of Lady Lake, Fla.; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous family, friends and co-workers.

Avis Sarah Sayre Quickle of Nitro passed away Sunday, January 8, 2012, at her home after a short illness. Avis was born January 7, 1920, and was one of the daughters of the late Floyd G. Sayre and Stella Crandal Sayre. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James F. Quickle; brothers, Stanley Sayre Roosevelt Sayre, Lincoln Sayre, Arnold Sayre and Gilman Sayre; and sisters, Macey Sayre Warner, Glady Sayre, Elsie Sayre Jones and Louise Sayre Pickens. Avis attended Nitro High School, and graduated from Point Pleasant High School in 1938. She was employed by American Viscose Corp. and Goodrich Gulf Rubber Plant until the plant closed. She was co-owner of Nitro Wholesale Electric Supply with her late husband, James F. Quickle. Avis was a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star Nitro Chapter 153. She attended St. Paul's United Church in her early years. Left behind to cherish her memory are her son, Howard W. Janey Jr., who was her caregiver and was always there when she needed anything. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews and great-nephews to cherish her memory.

Mr. William H. "Bill" Jones, 85, of Poca passed away Thursday, January 12, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital, South Charleston. Bill loved to hunt, fish, golf and go camping. He attended Nitro Senior Citizens Center, where he was known to the kids at day care as The Cookie Man. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Jones and Violet Smith; stepfather Herbert Smith; sisters, Drema Ferguson and Patty Miller; children, William Jones Jr. and Beverly Ann Jones; and great-grandson, Korey Jones. Bill is survived his wife of 63 years, Jane Tucker Jones; son, William "Jeep" and wife, Cindy Jones, of Rock Branch; daughter, Linda Jones and husband, Tom Adkins, of Cross Lanes; sisters, Wanda Jones of Hopewell, Va., Sharon Jones French of Liberty and Shirley Jones Rucker of Arizona; brothers, Marshall and Lewis Jones, both of Palm Bay, Fla.; stepmother, Charlotte Jones of Palm Bay; grandchildren, Timmy and wife, Valerie Jones, Jason and wife, Jindalay Jones, Tommy and wife, Tiffney Adkins, and Tominda Adkins; great-grandson, Jake Adkins; special friends, Joe Nunley and Clyde Fields; and a host of other family, friends and camping friends.

Quentin L. "Red" Miller, 87, of Nitro passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2012, after a lengthy illness with Alzheimer's. He was a graduate of Spencer High School, and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, Squadron VMF 218, in the Philippines during World War II. Quentin retired from Columbia Gas Transmission with 34 years of service as a dispatcher and senior controller. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Miller; parents, Lemuel and Flora Miller; brothers, Everson, Early, Kermit and Archie Miller; and sisters, Emogene Burdette and Kitty Hannaman. Quentin is survived by sons, Glenn Miller of Hurricane and Orville "Butch" Miller of Nitro; grandchildren, Allen Thaxton of Mashpee, Mass., Eric (Deena) Miller of Poca, Casey (Donetta) Miller of Winfield, Mitzi (Joshua) Vince of Martinsburg and Kati (Steven) Harmon of Nitro; step-grandchildren, Jason (Angie) Dunlap of Eleanor and Heather (Alan) Goderre of Teays Valley; six great-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; and brother, Newton Miller of Spencer.

Richard A. "Dick" Wilson, 83, of Charleston passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2012, at CAMC General Hospital after a long illness. His one desire was to hear his Lord say to him, "Well done thy good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things. Enter unto the joy of your Lord." Matthew: 25:21. Dick served his country with the U.S. Army, and was a veteran of the Korean War. He became a Christian at the age of 33, and his purpose in life became winning people to the Lord, which he did through his street and tract ministry in our area. He always saw the good in everyone. He was a longtime resident of Charleston, and attended Woodrow Wilson Junior High. Richard was self-employed as a dry cleaning salesman, and worked for many years. He was a member of the Covenant Christian Fellowship. Preceding him in death were both parents and a sister. He is survived by sons, Richard (Buddy) Miller of Cross Lanes and Doug Miller and Edra of Terra Haute, Ind.; daughter, RuthAnne Miller and Terry Payne of Cross Lanes; grandchildren, Jessica Gross, Dr. Zachary Wilson, Douglas Wilson II, Brandi Edwards, Cathi Sparks and Terri Davis; nine great-grandchildren; and cousin, Margie Kidd. As per his wishes, the body will be cremated. The family would like to express their special thanks to Sonny Campbell, Art Williamson, Ed Thomas, Chris and Lora Sands, Jim Loftis and many others who meant so much to our Dad.

Wednesday, January 04, 2012

Troy Lilly, Cross Lanes WV photographer hitting big time!

West Virginia Photography in National Geographic Contest >PRWEB.COM Newswire<="" div="">

Charleston, West Virginia (PRWEB) January 03, 2012

ForestWander - The National Geographic "Stories Without Words Photo Competition" sponsored by Hilton Honors received thousands of entries from all over the world. Senior editor for National Geographic Traveler magazine Dan Westergren chose the category finalists. Summarizing his story without words, "Alluring Cascade Pirouette" by Troy Lilly (nature photographer from Cross Lanes, West Virginia) is a travel photograph of Elakala Falls which was picked as a finalist in the "Spaces You Discover" category.

The chosen finalist entry from West Virginia features the waterfalls captured in a long exposure digital photograph. This photographic technique blurs the water fall motion for an extended amount of time while the small whirlpool spins below the cascades creating a stunning effect. Lilly has the opportunity to win the grand prize of a trip on a National Geographic Expedition to Galápagos and other runner up prizes including Nikon Camera if online voting favors the Elakala Falls image. The website to cast votes is http://www.nationalgeographic.com/photostories.

Located in Blackwater Falls State Park near a small mountain village named Davis, Elakala waterfalls are a hidden wonder revealed to those who take a 30 minute stroll from the state park’s lodge. The waterfall name originates from a Native American legend about a young princess who cast herself over the falls when scorned by her lover.

The exposure generated by placing first in this competition could certainly increase the notoriety and popularity for the natural beauty found in many West Virginia travel destinations, having a positive impact on the state’s economy.

To cast a vote free registration is required at the National Geographic website, which is a standard practice by many online competitions. Registered website visitors will vote for the winners beginning December 19th ending January 15th, 2012. Voters may return on January 25th, 2012 to see the winners.

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/west-virginia/travel-photography/prweb9071833.html