Chair of Honor for POW and MIA soldiers proposed to Wynford BOE

By Brooke Stephenson

The Wynford Board of Education met Thursday, Oct. 19, to discuss a variety of proposals and upcoming events. The proposal for a new high school building includes keeping the current auditorium, gymnasium, and cafeteria. Renovations are to be added where needed. This is slated to be on the county ballot. District Treasurer Leesa Smith discussed the district’s revenue, expenditures, and changes in fund balances.

Bernie Kessler, a member of the Sons of the American Legion No. 181 in Bucyrus, introduced the “Chair of Honor” to the board. The Chair of Honor’s purpose is to remember and recognize the 91,000 POW and MIA soldiers who never made it home since WWI.

Kessler proposed that all of the six public schools in Crawford County and Wayside Christian School consider the placement of a 42-by-42-inch chair somewhere on school grounds. Each School Board will determine location of placement of the chair.

Kessler said he is scheduled to speak at each of the six school district’s board meetings.

Along with the chair, the American Legion also is providing two American flags, a cover for the chair to protect it from the weather elements and a chain surrounding the chair and two flags. The Chair of Honor is of no cost to the schools.

Wynford High School Band Director Matt Safford proposed that the band take a trip to Williamsburg and Norfolk, Virginia on March 28-31, which is the first part of Wynford’s spring break. Safford also stated that they have an opportunity to perform at Busch Gardens, an amusement park located in Williamsburg, Virginia.

While in Williamsburg, they may learn about Williamsburg by utilizing tour guides.

Safford said he feels this trip would be important because, “Williamsburg played an interesting role in American history and culture.”

The board announced The Timken Foundation of Canton to the Wynford Drama Department donated a grant of $20,000. The funds were donated Oct. 13. Wynford must use the money to invest in new and improved lighting for the stage.

In conclusion of the meeting, the board announced the football game versus Upper Sandusky on Oct.20 will recognize all veterans in the Crawford County area and the theme will be a “pink out.”