Caring, involved teachers combined with passionate, willing and able students are the winning combination that lead to great things.

That being said, I offer congratulations to Central High School student Jonathan Clarke on his recent win in the impromptu category at the State Forensics meet recently.

These days the word “forensics” most often brings to mind popular TV shows like Forensics Files, CSI and Law & Order, but in this case, we are talking about the fine art of public speaking. Just the thought of speaking in front of others has many a grown man and woman breaking out in a cold sweat and I admit it’s not my favorite past time either.

However, just looking at the smiles on the faces of Clarke and his coach April Clarke in last weeks’ Dispatch, it’s easy to see that not only does the thought of public speaking not bring anxiety to this team, but brings great joy.

The saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and according to Clarke, his experience has been no exception.

Giving credit and thanks for the support of his peers, teachers and coaches speaks volumes about this young man and this community that has raised him.

Clarke didn’t reach first place overnight, but through practice, perseverance and coaching, he and Central High School now claim the title of state champion.

Congratulations to Clarke, the teachers and coaches of Central High School, and Clarke’s parents Tara Dunbar, of Victoria, and Jan and Carrie Clarke, of Crewe, on a job well done.

We invite you to share with us, let us know what you’d like to see in your community newspaper. If something works we want to hear about it, same thing goes if it doesn’t work. You can reach me directly via email or by phone at (434) 808-0636.

Betty Ramsey is publisher of The Kenbridge-Victoria Dispatch. Her email address is Betty.Ramsey@KVDispatch.com.