from The Gallipolis Daily Tribune (8-13-09)

 

Saturday will be a day of firsts for the Gallia County Local Schools as its two new high schools will be dedicated and toured by the public for the first time.

The day will also represent another first in the fact the River Valley and South Gallia varsity football teams will meet each other in a benefit game set for later in the day.

Both teams have been in existence since the 1990s, but have never played each other.

Proceeds from the what organizers are calling the “Jamboree Game” between the Raiders and Rebels go to the Gridiron for Gallia Committee to build new football stadiums and sports complexes at the schools. The 2005 bond issue approved by voters allowing for the new RVHS and SGHS did not include funds for athletic facilities.

The scrimmage will be played at 7 p.m. on the Raiders’ field at Cheshire. Pre-game activities starting at 4 p.m. include a hog roast and bean dinner at $5 per person, split the pot, a cornhole tournament at $30 per team, and basket games in the gym of the old RVHS at $20 per ticket. Doors open at 3 p.m.  Individuals attending the dinner are reminded to bring a lounge chair or blanket as tables will not be available for use.

Winners of the cornhole tournament will get sports passes for both high schools during the 2009-10 school year. In addition, face painting, balloons and a dunking booth will be available.

Further information is available from SGHS Principal Scot West at 256-6379 or RVHS Principal Rochelle Halley at 367-7377.

Dedication of the new South Gallia, next to the current school in Mercerville, is 10 a.m. Saturday, while the new River Valley at Bidwell, between River Valley Middle School and Heatley Road, will be christened at 2 p.m.


“I think there is a high level of excitement across the community at the prospect of beginning the new school year in buildings designed for 21st century students,” Gallia County Local Schools Superintendent Dr. Charla Evans said.

“We are so appreciative of the support the Gallia County Local community has given to our entire student body,” she added. “And finally, I think the opening of three new high schools in our county attests to the fact that school pride is countywide.”

The first day of classes in the Gallia County Local Schools is Wednesday, Aug. 26. Teachers and staff will be in professional development on Tuesday, Aug. 25.