Published: May 02, 2008 11:53 pm            

Merry, merry month of May

New edition of exp highlights inspiring people and fun events

When you think of the month of May, several things come to mind, at least for me.

There’s the end of school — a blessing for some, a curse for working mothers everywhere! We do wish all the graduates of the county a very hearty congratulations, and best wishes for the future.

But another thing May means to me is the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. It will take place at Community Park (the one by the YMCA) May 16, beginning at 7 p.m. If you come for any of it, come for the survivor lap which occurs at the beginning. For everyone who has ever been touched by cancer, be it themselves, a friend or a loved one, this survivor lap will move you, and make you think. You will be reminded of how precious each day is, and that we shouldn’t take them for granted.

The May issue of exp is full of interesting stories, but none more touching than the story of Kyndall Ritchie. A bright, beautiful 9-year-old girl with five brothers and sisters, Kyndall’s family was enjoying life at the lake until her journey with cancer began just after she turned 8.

Kyndall proved to be very strong and courageous, but I can’t even imagine what her parents went through. Only parents who have had a child receive a diagnosis like this can truly understand the fear that must have gripped Todd and Kristi Ritchie.

Kyndall is forming her own team for the ACS Relay for Life, called Kyndall’s Cancer Crushers. She is excited about having a team, raising money, and making a difference for other people with cancer.

Another event this month is the 10th annual Corsicana AirSho, put on by the Coyote Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. Two charming folks, Ted and Margie Taylor, are heavily involved, along with the rest of the Coyote Squadron. Margie took our cover shot on the May exp, as she loves doing aerial and all types of photography. May 10 take the family and head to the Corsicana Airport, where there will be historic “war birds,” displays, formation flying, vendor booths, and plenty of great food!

A note about our cover this month: Sometimes, our investigative skills are not the best. We had the photo, knew who the photographer was, but guessed at who was IN the photo. We guessed wrong! So even though we name Patrick Powers and his son Ty, the people who are really on the front cover of the May exp are Danny Allen and his son, Jack. Our sincere apologies, Danny!

More folks featured this month in exp who are making a difference are the people involved with the STAR/AVID programs recently implemented. Success Through Active Role Modeling (STAR) involves local adult professionals agreeing to mentor a student (mentor, not tutor). Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a national program that was started this year at Corsicana High School, whereby middle-of-the-road students are given a “leg up” in planning their course toward college. Read more about both programs in the May issue of exp.

Also in the pages of this month’s exp, you will find a story about an artist in Retreat. Gregory Singletary has traveled the world, experienced all kinds of art, and is now residing in Retreat, where he finds inspiration. We have a story about a female high school athlete whose athletic career was nearly cut short by a car accident, as well as a match game for some area high school graduates and their gift wishes.

Tammie’s Homemade Brittles started as a sort of hobby for Richard and Tammie Lipscomb, but it has since turned into a booming business. Read all about their success, and don’t miss the photo pages from the 50th Anniversary Navarro County Youth Exposition!

We hope you enjoy this issue of exp, and have a most awesome month of May!

(P.S. Happy birthday today to my nephew, Jack, who turns 7!)

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Deanna Brown is a Daily Sun staff writer and editor of “exp ...” Her column appears on Sundays. She may be reached by e-mail at deanna@corsicanadailysun.com.

        

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