ISLE OF WIGHT
The Isle of Wight County School Board meeting was the last for the calendar year, and the final one for two of its members. Chairwoman Denise Tynes of the Smithfield District lost reelection to Kirstin K. Cook. Ed Easter of the Newport District had chosen not to run. He had been filling in since Kent Hildebrand had suddenly and inexplicably resigned in March. Victoria Hulick will be the new representative.

The farewells were not without emotion.

“It has been wonderful working with both Denise and Ed,” said fellow board member Julia Perkins, who represents the Windsor District. She noted that Easter has been a faithful attendee of the board meetings even before he joined this past spring.

Alvin Wilson, who represents the Hardy District, thanked Tynes and Easter, and that he looks forward to working with the new members.

Martha Jackson, a county resident, also thanked the pair for their “dedicated service to IOW schools.”

Faculty and staff bestowed numerous gifts, including a gavel for Tynes, and a pen for Easter.

“It’s such an honor,” Tynes said after unwrapping a gavel. “If I don’t do anything else, I’ve reached the highest height. Thanks to all of you for what you have done.”

Easter, who received a pen, added, “We do have some wonderful kids.”