There are several places around that I call "home". I like where I live on the Kentucky side in Pineville. The people of Pineville are very nice and have been helpful to me since the loss of my husband. They have welcomed me to Pineville with open arms.
And, many who know me, know that I spend most of my life in Gilbert. That's where I work and that's where most of my friends live. But, there is something very special about one's roots--the place where you grew up and go to school, and where your family lives.
Though I've been fortunate in my life to travel around the country and see some beautiful places, I'm proud to say I'm an Oceana girl. Oceana is a great place to live. It is a clean little town with people who have hearts as big as Texas. I grew up around Oceana and started the first grade at what is now Berlin McKinney Grade. I spent all of my youth and high school days in Oceana.
And yes, I am, and always will be, a die-hard Indian fan(We former cheerleaders seem to never get it out of our system!). I could not go to the tournaments in Charleston because of leaving work, but when I heard of last week's loss to Wheeling Central, at first, my heart sank. The chance of us being state champions in our last year ever at OHS, was not to be. But, my heart swelled with pride when I began to think of this year's basketball team and their performance throughout the season. They may not have taken home a state championship, but they truly are champions. I don't know all of these young men, but I do know some of their parents, who are my peers. I know they are fine young men and come from fine families, and from the games I attended, I know they are a class act. My hats off to you, gentlemen, and to you, Coach Jimmy Hopkins for a job well-done.
So, with consolidation coming in the fall, Iguess we move on and accept change. It will be nice to have a modern facility for our students and better opportunities for them, but in my heart, it will always be ole Oceana High School, Oceana, West Virginin-my home sweet home. Bear with me while I see if I can recite this for the last time after 23 years...
"HAIL OCEANA
WE DEDICATE TO YOU,
HEARTS THAT YOU'LL FIND,
EVER LOYAL AND TRUE
FIRM AND UNDAUNTED
ALWAYS WE'LL BE,
HAIL OCEANA, WE SALUTE TO THEE,
TRUE TO THE SCHOOL WE LOVE
WE'LL ALWAYS BE!!!!"
Angie Cline
From Carl.. I'm not "From" Oceana but I'm working on being "from" there now..
