East Palestine Hall of Fame to induct new members

By Virginia Ross

EAST PALESTINE — School officials agreed early on not to limit induction into the East Palestine Hall of Fame to athletes or local high school graduates.

They set out to recognize anyone with ties to the area who has made a positive impact on the community, said East Palestine Schools Superintendent Tom Inchak.

“There are athletes and East Palestine graduates among the hall of fame members,” Inchak said. “But the recognition is also extended to other people who live here, have moved into the area or who have lived here at one time, people who have ties here. Those people who have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the community.”

The next induction ceremony will be at 11 a.m. Sept. 6 at the high school cafeteria and will include a luncheon. Tickets are $15 a person and are on sale at the board of education office.

There will also be a brief, on-field recognition of the inductees later in the day before the high school football game against Steubenville Catholic Central.

The hall of fame, established in 2001, honors individuals with long records of public and community service to the schools, humanitarian contributions, life achievements through careers and other aspects, and those who have contributed to the community in various ways.

Each year a committee made up of school officials and community members selects candidates. Between six and eight people are inducted annually. Photographic plaques of the members are displayed in the school lobby.

The inductees for 2008 are:

Robert Bycroft, who will be honored posthumously. The East Palestine native is being recognized for significant humanitarian and professional service, including his dedication to county residents with disabilities. The county school for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities bears his name.

Read the full story Monday in The Vindicator and on vindy.com