Mark’s Musings – May 20, 2015

Mark Fortune

The 2015 Coshocton County Relay for Life is in the books and it was another successful Relay for Coshocton County. Event co-chairs Julie Kiser, Heather Pope and Missy Wilson went all out to ensure that the Relay ran smoothly. Dozens of team captains and various committee members put in hundreds of hours to raise funds for cancer research so that someday the words, “You have cancer” will be a thing of the past. Until then, we continue with the good fight against this dreaded disease.

Our community lost a barber of legend this past week with the passing of Dale “Red” Parker. Red, as everyone called him, was a gifted athlete in high school where he played basketball for the Roscoe Tigers. He was also quite the fisherman as those that have sat for a spell in his barber’s chair know well. There is much that could be written about Red but perhaps it is best to say that he was great friends with my Dad, “Pinky.” Red will be greatly missed by Ruth, Dan, extended family members and our community.

I would like to reflect for a moment on these lifelong friendships that exist throughout our community and were born out of our county schools. These young men and women went to school with each other from K-12 in many cases and certainly knew each other well, remaining great friends throughout their lives. You do not take this for granted. It is something special. My suggestion is – talk to your parents if they are from that era, if your grandparents, talk to them. In fact, grab a tape recorder and just sit down and talk. There are so many stories that remain vivid in the memories of the older generation but their friendship with each other is the best memory of all.

That can be seen in their faces and in their conversations at the various alumni banquets being held throughout the county this month. While they are visiting from out of town or if they live here, it is a perfect opportunity to sit around the table and absorb some stories from years gone by. Don’t miss it.

Tragically, our community lost a young woman last week in an auto accident. Jess N. Sivik was only 18 years old and was enrolled in the cosmetology program at the Coshocton County Career Center as a member of the River View High School class of 2015 and was a member of the RVHS Concert and Marching Band. We ask that you remember her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

The Beacon heard that Cindy Fry – one of Coshocton’s own – gave a great talk at the Coshocton Baccalaureate service held on Sunday, May 17. Great job Cindy! I imagine that Mr. Hasseman is practicing for his speech as we write this.

Speaking of graduation – congratulations to all area graduates! We are proud of you.

Please remember Memorial Day on Monday, May 25.

Category: Mark's Musings, Opinion