Retired Columbus Dispatch reporter Lee Leonard
has a long history of capital city journalism, having covered the Statehouse
during his career. One of the people he worked alongside was the late Speaker
of the House and Scioto County native Vern Riffe. Leonard visited Vern Riffe
School Wednesday to donate a framed copy of a Dispatch front page featuring a story he had written about Riffe’s
passing.
An assembly was held for the presentation and Leonard met students and
staff. He also toured the 104-year-old school building and met with members of
the Riffe family.
Leonard said he
wrote many stories that involved Riffe and, while they didn’t always get along
because of the nature of their respective jobs, he admired the Speaker’s
ability to solve problems without regard to political affiliation. He advised
the students to always look for the common ground with people they might
disagree with so they can find solutions to problems.
“It is an honor
that Mr. Leonard thought of us for this beautiful donation, and we are
incredibly grateful,” said Principal Tammy Guthrie. “The Cardinals
are proud to add this to the school’s collection of items about the Speaker.”
The piece will
be put on public display in the school lobby near a sculpture of Riffe, the
State Seal of Ohio, and a glass case with historic school memorabilia.
“Any time we
have the opportunity to remember and honor the people who have made our
community and county the wonderful places they are, we embrace it,” said Scioto
County Developmental Disabilities Superintendent Matt Purcell. “Mr. Leonard’s
generous gift is a reminder of how large an impact a single gesture can have on
an entire population of people.”