PHS MEDIA NEWS

Following the school day, most students at PHS return to their home for rest and comfort. This is the case for senior Jarrett Coleman, but in a slightly different way.

At the conclusion of the school day, Coleman ventures to his home of Hilltop Grocery. Coleman’s family has owned and operated the Hardinsburg gas station and grocery store for 18 years and counting. A house is directly attached to the store, which is Coleman and his family’s living area. One might imagine all the perks of living practically inside of a grocery store, such as receiving free or discounted food, drinks or gasoline. However, owning a grocery store comes with some heavy responsibilities for Coleman.

“I mainly work as a cashier, but I also cook, clean and stock the shelves when needed,” said Coleman.

Coleman strives to be a great employee and go above and beyond. Not only does he enjoy working at Hilltop, but he has also learned some valuable lessons he can carry with him into his future. Responsibility, respect and problem-solving are some skills Coleman has acquired throughout his years of working at Hilltop. However, to Coleman, the most valuable skill he has obtained is the ability to work with people

“In the real world, you will always have to work with people. Working at Hilltop has really taught me some people skills that will really benefit me in any career path I choose,” said Coleman.

Of all the benefits Coleman receives by working at Hilltop, his favorite would have to be receiving free things he would otherwise have to buy. His labor accounts for the payment of the various things he decides to get without purchase. Despite the many benefits of living and being employed at Hilltop Grocery, Coleman is certain he will not be continuing ownership of the store following his parents retirement.

“Sadly, I do not plan to continue to run the store as a career path. While it is a fun place to hang out, I plan on either going to law enforcement or just finding a good job,” said Coleman.

Even though Coleman does not plan to continue the legacy of Hilltop, he realizes all the valuable life lessons he has gained. He has been learning lessons daily for 18 years. Coleman knows he will always give thanks to the small store in Hardinsburg where he was raised.

“I will forever be thankful for what Hilltop has provided me, other than an income for me and my family. I will carry the life lessons I have learned for as long as I live,” said Coleman.

Story by Jace Ingle

This past summer, freshman Bladen Patton was involved in an ATV accident resulting in a broken ankle and arm. Though it has been a road full of ups and downs for him and his family, Patton remains hopeful for the future.

On his path to recovery, Patton is going to rehab two days a week. His ankle is now fully healed, but his arm is still having some difficulties.

“I am now able to straighten my elbow out and my fingers more. The feeling in my fingers is gradually coming back,” said Patton.
Though doctors have not given him any time frame for his full release, Patton’s goal is to be back playing sports by this spring.

“I plan on returning to play baseball, basketball and football my sophomore year,” said Patton.

Going through something traumatic can be damaging both physically and emotionally, but Patton never lets his head hang.

“Recovery has been a challenge, and it’s really all about staying positive. The biggest challenge of all is definitely not being able to play sports. Before the accident, sports were my life. Staying positive about all of it and not having mental breakdowns is on top of my list for sure. I could’ve very easily given up by now, but that’s not me. I want to get back to doing the things I love,” said Patton.
Even though it may not seem like it at times, Patton has learned a lot from this rough experience.

“I look at life in general quite differently now. I understand that anything can happen so fast and change your life, but I know God always has a plan,” said Patton.

To raise money to help with Patton’s medical bills, “Superman” bracelets were sold. Around $1,000 was raised by this fundraiser.

“It’s good to know people care. I’m glad to have so much support through all of this. I know God has a plan for me, and I’m going to stick to it in the future to get back to my normal lifestyle,” said Patton.

Story by Gracie Walls

Guidance counselor Brandi Kerly has excitedly accepted Jon Shellenberger’s proposal for his construction class to build her new home.

The students who have helped with this project are freshmen Chase Conn, Sven Gehl and Braxton Knight; sophomores Tyler Ash, Craig Couch, Samuel Giles, Keeghan Jones, Mason Laws, Blain Marshall and Triston Robbins; juniors Adam Abounnaaim, Dylan Beck, Cole Crawhorn, Tanner Cole, Isaiah Holland, Anthony Lowe, Dawson Lynn, Ian Lynn and Kenneth Wadsack and seniors Joel Robinette and Dylan Beck.

“I am confident in these students’ abilities, dedication and work ethic. I visited the house they built last year before we started my build, and they did an amazing job. I was so impressed with the quality,“ said Kerley.

Kerley’s favorite part of this whole process is getting to work with this group of students.

“With Mr. Shellenberger’s direction and leadership, the construction classes work hard and pay attention to detail. They are also very energy conscious and are making sure my home is well insulated so utility bills will be low,” said Kerley.  

So far, the students have finished the foundation, concrete walls, roofing, shingles, framing of the walls inside, doors, windows, drywall, lighting, electrical, HVAC and painting. They plan to begin installing cabinets, lights, countertops and vinyl siding soon as well as finishing the flooring and porches.

“I’m excited to finish the flooring because once it gets done, you can really start to see how the house is coming together,” said Lowe.

Kerley has been involved in the entire decision making process that goes into building the house, especially the interior. She has ordered cabinets and countertops of her choice and has also picked out flooring to order.

As the house nears completion, Kerley is very excited to begin decorating. Her son Gage’s room will be painted Boston Celtics green, and his playroom will be painted navy blue to represent his travel baseball team and the Boston Red Sox. His bathroom is bright red, also to represent the Boston Red Sox. Kerley’s living room, kitchen and cabinets will all be white to go along with her beach theme. The island in the kitchen will be gray, and the countertops will be white with grey and black mixed in. The floors and her room will be gray.

It has been predicted that the house will be finished in April, and Kerley is eagerly awaiting the reveal of her new home.

“I am so excited about all of it. It has been an extremely cool experience, and I am forever grateful,” said Kerley.

Story by Makiya Russelburg