Beckley Newspapers 6-4-2004 |
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Shepherd's Center Students Shine
by Kathy Zirckel
Post Report Correspondent
Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks? Just
ask the folks at the Shepherd Center and they'll tell you - you're never too old to learn. Of course, just because the
Shepherd's Center is geared to seniors, the folks who attend the many activities offered there aren't "old." They may
have a few years under their belts, but these vivacious, curious, fun-loving people know the reality of the old adage, "You're
as young as you feel."
Take the art class, for instance. Under the direction
of Martha Atha, these nine students are becoming proficient in a number of media, including watercolor, acrylic, oil painting,
and drawing. Even though most of them had no previous desire to learn, they have progressed to the point that several
of them have sold paintings.
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Becklely Newspapers - Post Report 11-13-2003 |
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Gina Culicerto, Charlie Smith, Gladys Terry, and Mabel Nary socialize during the lunch hour. |
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Beckley Newspapers 6-4-2004 |
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Martha Atha, standing, teaches art at the Shepherd's Center. Seated is Mable Nary. |
Atha denies being their teacher, saying, "I'm their
encourager." She has been active in art in the Beckley area for some time, and is one of the original members of the
Beckley Art Group. "These people take their art seriously. It just puts you on cloud nine when you sell one."
Mabel Nary has been a member of the Shepherd Center for
twenty-four years. "I thought I'd never be able to learn to paint, and now I just love it." The group currently has their work dis-
played at Cranberry Station. They held a reception there to celebrate their
accomplishments.
The Shepherd Center, located in the Beckley Presbyterian
Church, is open Tuesday mornings from nine till noon, September through May. Classes are offered in a variety of subjects
including computers, quilting, Bible study, and line dancing. Lunch is served at noon. For more information call
252-6289.
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Article by Kathy Zirckel, Post Report Correspondent (11/13/2003)
BECKLEY - Members or thte Shepherd's Center paid tribute to one whom they
termed "a true patriot" at their October meeting. Dan Junutolo is well known for his musical presentations at the center,
local hospitals, nursing homes, churches, reunions, VFW's and area community centers.
According to Shepherd's Center director, Bernard Hurtte, Junutolo's musical
programs feature a collection of patriotic songs that span a century, usually encouraging a sing-a-long that inspires the
entire room. He received standing ovations when he performed at the opening sesesion
of the state legislature and at a special presentation at the West Virginia Cultural Center.
Dora Lee Sergent, who accompanies him on the piano, said, "Dan has the
greatest patriotic spirit of anyone I've ever known. He has promoted patriotism in the schools and honored our veterans
with great spirit. Dan led the music at the Shepherd's Center for several years, and we have really enjoyed having him.
When he sings, "I'm Proud To Be An American," you can tell he is."
Junutalo grew up in Beckley and is a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School.
After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army, he has resided in Beckley with his wife, Nancy. Due
to declining health, the Junutolos are leaving the Beckley area to live closer to their family.
To honor his many heartfelt performances of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless
the USA," his friends at the Shepherd's Center presented him with a copy of the sheet music, signed by Lee Greenwood.
Since Mr. Junutolo was hospitalized, the award was accepted by his wife, Nancy.
Beckley Newspapers - The Post Report 12/12/02 |
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