Martinsville-Henry County, VA: 2009-10

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2010 | IMAGESMARTINSVILLEHENRYCOUNTY.COM

MARTINSVILLEHENRY COUNTY ®

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VIRGINIA

DIGGING THIS EDUCATIONAL GEM Natural History Museum’s annual programs excel

NIRVANA FOR NATURE LOVERS Beauty abounds along rivers and trails

At the Art of It All Southern Virginia Artisan Center provides creative outlet Uptown

What’s s e Online Video of artists at work at Piedmont Arts Studio 107

SPONSORED BY THE MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Clocktower at the Commonwealth Centre

Overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in Martinsville, VA

L e st e r

D e v e l opm e n t

Regional office, call centers, secure back office and storage warehouse. For leasing information, contact Doug Walsh at (276) 656-3268.

www.lesterproperties.net

2010 EDITION | VOLUME 8

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MARTINSVILLEHENRY COUNTY VIRGINIA

CO NTE NT S F E AT U R E S 5 AT THE ART OF IT ALL The Southern Virginia Artisan Center provides a creative outlet for artists.

8 NIRVANA FOR NATURE LOVERS Beauty abounds along the rivers and trails of Martinsville-Henry County.

12 DIGGING THIS EDUCATIONAL GEM Residents benefit from rich programming at the Virginia Museum of Natural History.

MARTINSVILLE BUSINESS 22 Home Sweet Home Furnishings A new furniture outlet is taking shape at Martin Plaza in Uptown Martinsville.

24 Biz Briefs 26 Chamber Report 27 Economic Profile

D E PA R TM E NT S 4 Almanac: a colorful sampling of Martinsville and Henry County’s culture

16 Local Flavor 17 Portfolio: people, places and events that

28 POPULAR SCHOOL OF THOUGHT Local students can earn 17 educational degrees at New College Institute.

define Martinsville and Henry County

30 Sports & Recreation 33 Health & Wellness 34 Community Profile: facts, stats

29 FEAST YOUR EYES ON THESE Martinsville’s mural project benefits from the talents of local and visiting artists.

ON THE COVER Photo by Todd Bennett Pottery by Joyce Wray at the Southern Virginia Artisan Center

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and important numbers to know

36 Business Guide

All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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Now Showing in Our Video Gallery

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SENIOR EDITOR LISA BATTLES COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS ASSOCIATE EDITORS SUSAN CHAPPELL, JESSY YANCEY STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CARY ESTES, ANNE GILLEM DATA MANAGER CHANDRA BRADSHAW INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER RUTH MARTINEAU SALES SUPPORT MANAGER CINDY HALL SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN McCORD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, J. KYLE KEENER PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT MANAGER ANNE WHITLOW CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS MELISSA BRACEWELL, KATIE MIDDENDORF, JILL WYATT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS LEAD DESIGNER ERICA HINES GRAPHIC DESIGN ALISON HUNTER, JESSICA MANNER, JANINE MARYLAND, MARCUS SNYDER WEB IMPLEMENTATION DIRECTOR ANDY HARTLEY WEB DESIGN DIRECTOR FRANCO SCARAMUZZA WEB CONTENT MANAGER JOHN HOOD WEB PROJECT MANAGER YAMEL RUIZ WEB DESIGN CARL SCHULZ WEB PRODUCTION JENNIFER GRAVES COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN AD TRAFFIC MARCIA MILLAR, PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY

CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER V.P./SALES HERB HARPER V.P./SALES TODD POTTER V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS V.P./CUSTOM PUBLISHING KIM NEWSOM MANAGING EDITOR/BUSINESS BILL McMEEKIN MANAGING EDITOR/COMMUNITY KIM MADLOM PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY SIMPSON DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR YANCEY TURTURICE IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

Sit back and enjoy a preview of Martinsville-Henry County amenities.

Explore its landscapes, cultural offerings, food and fun.

See its downtown, neighborhoods, parks and attractions.

Experience the history, hot spots and local happenings. Martinsville-Henry County is rated L for Livability

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CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A

Martinsville-Henry County is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 115 Broad Street • Martinsville, VA 24112 Phone: (276) 632-6401 • Fax: (276) 632-5059 www.mhcchamber.com VISIT MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COUNTY ONLINE AT IMAGESMARTINSVILLEHENRYCOUNTY.COM ©Copyright 2009 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member

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imagesmartinsvillehenrycounty.com THE DEFINITIVE RELOCATION RESOURCE

What’s Onl Online n

PICTURE PERFECT We’ve added even more of our prize-winning photography to the online gallery. To see these photos, click on Photo Gallery.

RELOCATION Considering a move to this community? We can help. Use our Relocation Tools to discover tips, including how to make your move green, advice about moving pets and help with booking movers.

VIDEOS In our Interactive section, watch quick videos by our editors and photographers featuring people, places and events.

FACTS & STATS Go online to learn even more about: • Schools • Health care • Utilities • Parks • Taxes

LOCAL FLAVOR From the simple to the sublime, the delicious offerings here are guaranteed to satisfy every appetite.

ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE Martinsville-Henry County gives readers a taste of what makes Martinsville-Henry County tick – from business and education to sports, health care and the arts. “Find the good – and praise it.”

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– Alex Haley (1921-1992), Journal Communications co-founder

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Start Your Engines The revved-up racing industry thrives like a well-oiled machine in Martinsville-Henry County. The area benefits from the presence of Arrington Engines, HT Motorsports and a motorsports degree program at Patrick Henry Community College. Then of course, there’s Martinsville Speedway, which has been hosting NASCAR races since 1949. Today, it hosts two annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events. NASCAR driver and race team owner Kevin Harvick has declared Martinsville Speedway the home track of Kevin Harvick Inc. due to the track’s proximity to his race shop in Kernersville, N.C.

Promoting Healthy Habits Since 2004, the Martinsville-Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness has embarked on a mission to promote healthy lifestyles for the community. Through events such as the Walk to Jamestown initiative, Rails to Trails and free aerobics classes, the coalition aspires to encourage local people to adopt healthy behaviors and to minimize health risks. Activate Martinsville-Henry County, a branch of the Coalition for Health and Wellness, endeavors to provide Martinsville-Henry County with abundant opportunities to participate in healthy activities. Thanks to funding from the Harvest Foundation, the promotion of community health and wellness is a well-supported endeavor.

Nurturing Nonprofits If Martinsville-Henry County’s community of organizations were a garden, then the Nonprofit Leaders ers Network would be the rain that helps it bloom. The NLN N is an initiative designed to ensure the local nonprofit sector ector is adequately sustained and nourished by making available able training, material resources, technical assistance and networking opportunities. Through a generous grant from rom The Harvest Foundation, the NLN is able to help nonprofits rofits build capacity. This network is administered through the he United Way of Henry County and Martinsville, which provided funding for 22 agencies in 2008.

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Almanac

Fast Facts At the Art of It All Martinsville and Henry County artists now have a central place to share their contributions to the vibrant local creative scene thanks to the Southern Virginia Artisan Center. The center in Uptown Martinsville provides a place for regional artists to showcase and sell their work. Customers behold the shelves of the center’s eclectic art collection and walk away with beautiful pieces such as ceramics, oil paintings, handmade jewelry, glass vases, handwoven baskets and more. Through the center, local artists get an outlet for their creativity, residents get to partake in Virginia’s rich artistic culture, and visitors get to take home a product of inspiration.

Finding Branches in the Family Tree What glory graces your family tree? Is there a daughter of the Revolution? Or perhaps a Civil War veteran? Those wishing to unveil these faces of the past can do so through the Bassett Historical Center. The BHC, a center for genealogical study, houses more than 9,500 family files and 11,000 genealogy books. People from all over the United States – and a few foreign countries – visit to peruse the pages in hopes of discovering facts about their family’s history.

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Q During each school year, the MartinsvilleHenry County After 3 Initiative provides area children with educational programming five days a week. Q The Reynolds Homestead in Critz showcases how Hardin Reynolds and his family lived. He was a 19th century farmer, merchant, baker and tobacco manufacturer. Q Martinsville-Henry County’s Blue Ridge Aquaculture is the world’s largest indoor producer of tilapia. Q Local artist Nicodemus D. Hufford was the creator of the Quaker Oaks man, Aunt nt Jemima and many other famous s advertising images. Q The Foot ot of the Hills Festt at Patrick Henry Community College e each October ber features live music, arts and crafts, food od and fun.

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Almanac

Nothing but Love for Martinsville Think of the aptly named Community Pride Committee as the cheerleader who rallies excitement during a football game, the teacher who encourages a student to put his best foot forward, or the father who proudly shows family pictures every chance he gets. The Community Pride Committee promotes positive initiatives, fundraisers and events throughout the community and encourages citizens to love their hometown. The committee’s semi-annual magazine, Limelight, highlights these community initiatives and informs about events such as the volunteerled community litter pick-up.

More Than Pet Fish Ever hear of children having trout as the classroom pets? That’s the case with the Trout in the Classroom Project. Thanks to the program, which was started locally by Dr. David Jones in 2005-06, local students raise trout from eggs to fingerlings before eventually releasing them into the wild. Teachers hail the program as a wonderful opportunity for urbanized students to reconnect with nature. By increasing their knowledge of waterways, streams and rivers, students experience the beauty of nature as well understand the importance of water conservation and ecosystems.

Martinsville-Henry County At A Glance POPULATION (2008 ESTIMATE) Martinsville: 14,543 Henry County: 55,316

Martinsville-Henry Co. Philpott Rese R Re Reservoir ese

LOCATION Martinsville-Henry County is in southcentral Virginia, adjacent to the North Carolina border.

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Fairy Stone Bassett State Park Stanleytown

HE N RY COU N TY Collinsville

BEGINNINGS Martinsville was named in honor of Gen. Joseph Martin, a distinguished figure in the Revolutionary War and a longtime area resident. Henry County was named for patriot Patrick Henry, who lived here from 1778 to 1784. FOR MORE INFORMATION Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 115 Broad St. Martinsville, VA 24112 Phone: (276) 632-6401 Fax: (276) 632-5059 www.martinsville.com

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VIRGINIA NORTH CAROLINA

What’s Online e Take a virtual tour of Martinsville-Henry County, courtesy of our awardwinning photographers, at imagesmartinsvillehenrycounty.com.

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Nirvana for Nature

Lovers

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PHOTOS BY TODD BENNETT

BEAUTY ABOUNDS ALONG THE RIVERS AND TRAILS OF MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COUNTY STORY BY CARY ESTES

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hose who are looking to get away from it all in Martinsville-Henry County don’t have to look very far. From picturesque rivers to numerous hiking and biking trails, this is an area where the outdoors are indeed great, and recreational activities can be discovered in every direction. “There’s so much natural beauty found here right in our own backyard,” says Jennifer Doss, rivers and trails project manager for the Dan River Basin Association. “It’s really nice that you don’t have to drive long distances to take a walk in the woods or a paddle trip

down the river. It’s easy to go after work or on weekends to enjoy nature. We’re really fortunate to have this beauty right here with us.” Rolling through the heart of Martinsville-Henry County is the Smith River. The upper part of the river, near Philpott Dam, churns past wooded mountains and offers a feeling of seclusion. The lower part of the river, near the town of Ridgeway, is more open and wide and similar to the expansive rivers found in the western U.S. “There are so many different feels to it that in one day’s time, you can go to several different sections of the river and

feel like you’ve been in completely different locations,” Doss says. The river provides the spine of the growing Smith River Trails system, which includes multiuse trails, boating access and recreational parks. Doss says approximately 12 miles of the trail will be completed by 2010, with a long-term goal of expanding to 45 miles, running from Philpott Dam to Eden, N.C. The jewel of the trail is the Richard P. Gravely Jr. Nature Preserve near Ridgeway. This 75-acre preserve is Henry Country’s only interpretative park, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the area while also

Left: A family enjoys paddling and fishing on Philpott Reservoir. Above: A turtle at Gravely Nature Preserve

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“We’re really fortunate to have this beauty right here with us.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRIN R. DOSS

enjoying the scenery. There are two miles of trails in the preserve, including a half-mile section opened in 2008 called the Rhododendron Trail that runs alongside the river. One of the most popular parts of the Smith River Trails system is the Fieldale Trail, which consists of a 1-mile gravel walking trail and a 1-mile naturalsurface trail, making it attractive to both hikers and bikers. With the river on one side and wildflowers and huge sycamore trees on the other, the trail also is frequented by photographers and bird watchers. Back to the northwest of Martinsville, near Philpott Dam, is Fairy Stone State Park, which is the largest of Virginia’s six original state parks. The 4,537-acre park includes a 168-acre lake as well as camping and hiking opportunities. But the park is perhaps best known for its fairy stones, lovely brown staurolite crystals that were compressed into shapes resembling crosses and can be found in abundance throughout the park grounds. “It’s one of the few places on earth where that type of rock formation is found,” Doss says. “It’s a really beautiful place.” Nearby is Jamison Mill Park, which reopened in 2009 with help from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Friends of Philpott organization. The groups restored the park, built trails and opened the boat ramp. “Having all this regional activity is so important,” Doss says. “It allows for tourists to come in and have something to do, but it also provides quality of life for our residents.”

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TODD BENNETT

Above: Members of the Henry County Bike Club break the ribbon for the Fieldale Trail’s extension. Below and far right: The Gravely Nature Preserve has two miles of wooded trail on its 75 acres.

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TODD BENNETT

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Digging This

Educational Gem RESIDENTS BENEFIT FROM PROGRAMMING AT VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

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The Virginia Museum of Natural History’s spectacular exhibits have made it a key tourism draw, and residents also benefit from its year-round educational programs and community involvement.

STORY BY CAROL COWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN CURCIO

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hat would happen if people turned off their televisions, put away their electronic devices and went outside to explore the natural world around them? Through programming offered by the Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville, more people are finding out. They’re developing a stronger desire to be environmental stewards while also learning lots of cool stuff – like how many and what kinds of trees grow in J. Frank Wilson Memorial Park behind the museum, or how to plant a butterfly garden, says Dr. Dennis Casey, VMNH director of education and public programming. The tree inventory and butterfly garden are part of the Martinsville-Henry County Community Nature Initiative that the Virginia Museum of Natural History is implementing

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with a grant from the Harvest Foundation. “We’re in year two of the Community Nature Initiative, and we’ll be doing a lot more with outdoor programming,” Casey says. “Getting outside and into nature is a big movement in education, and it will be a major emphasis for us in the coming year.” The museum’s outdoor thrust includes teacher training and curriculum development, as well as Earth Force, a program that encourages community members to identify and take action on issues that will affect positive environmental change. The Community Nature Initiative is just one of many educational programs of the Virginia Museum of Natural History. “We have educational programs for visitors of all I M AG E S M A R T I N S V I L L E H E N R YC O U N T Y. C O M

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What’s Online e Take a peek inside Virginia Museum of Natural History in this quick video at imagesmartinsvillehenrycounty.com.

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ages – kids, adults and families – both on site and through outreach,” says Ryan Barber, director of marketing and external affairs. Doodle Bugs, a favorite among local families with preschoolers, explores themes from dinosaurs to space. The Special Saturdays program offers hands-on activities for families, and Family Fun Fridays features learning experiences coordinated with local partner organizations, such as the Dan River Basin Association. “They might do a program focused on care of the river, water quality, things like that,” Barber says of the DRBA programming. MHC After 3 is an after-school alternative for middle school students that takes place at several different sites in the area. The Virginia Museum of Natural History is the academic service provider for the program, as well as one of the sites. Thanks to funding by the Harvest Foundation, participation is free. “It’s really exciting to be part of MHC After 3,” Casey says. “This is a great communitywide collaboration that provides kids with positive choices for after school. Kids come every day, and we do a variety of things focused on whole-child development.” For instance, After-School Math Plus includes a music module in which students build an instrument and learn to read music, all the while integrating fractions and other math

skills. In the Built Communities program, they design and build a model city while learning about architecture, civics and engineering. Other topics range from cyber-safety to dealing with bullies. Also for youngsters, 18 different summer day camps encourage budding scientists, and PTO-funded outreach programs in area schools compensate for those field trips that recession-pinched budgets have put on hold, Casey says. All school programs are coordinated to Virginia and North Carolina Standards of Learning. Tens of thousands of visitors tour the Virginia Museum of Natural History each year. Its new $28 million, 89,000-square-foot facility opened in March 2007 and features more than 22 million items and a slate of changing exhibits and programs.

Virginia Museum of Natural History exhibits include a simulated volcano and native plant specimens.

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Local Flavor

More Than a Hill of Beans UPTOWN MARTINSVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET OFFERS FRESH VEGGIES AND MUCH MORE

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ut of arugula and rutabagas? The Uptown Martinsville Farmers’ Market has been helping fill crisper bins in Henry County since the late 1970s. The market has been housed at its current site on West Main Street since 1999. The hours of operation for the market are Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The indoor/ outdoor attraction is open 12 months a year. Even though the city of Martinsville constructed the facility more than 10 years ago for farmers and marketgoers, the site is still receiving rave reviews for its amenities, cleanliness, convenience and efficiency. While many markets consist of rows of small tents, this market has water, electricity and restrooms, plus there is a performance stage for producing a variety of entertainment events. Those events include monthly Tasty Saturday gettogethers that showcase live music, a chef-of-the-month demonstration and craft artisans from the Patrick Henry

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Community College Artisan Center. The Tasty Saturday festivities make the market one of Martinsville’s hottest spots on the weekends. The Martinsville Uptown Revitalization Association oversees the entertainment events as well as all other activities affiliated with the market. The summertime months feature the freshest pears, peas, spinach and dry beans, while fall is the best time to buy carrots and collards. Strawberries are plentiful during the winter and spring, the latter season also ideal for shoppers looking for beets, broccoli, dried herbs and medicinal herbs. Meanwhile, there are also plenty of year-round products such as onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, fish and other seafood, pork, eggs, baked goods, bread, honey, preserves, soap and bedding plants. Non-edible items for sale throughout most of the year include fresh-cut flowers and beeswax. – Kevin Litwin MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

Portfolio

Giving It the Old-School Try T

he Henry County School Board closed Spencer-Penn Elementary at the end of June 2004 as part of the process of consolidating schools in the county, but it wasn’t long before the doors were open once more. For the first time since Spencer-Penn opened in 1927, students were no longer being educated in the building. However, many people in the community have great memories of Spencer-Penn, and they didn’t want the building to eventually be bulldozed, as has happened to so many other historic schools throughout the nation. So to make sure that this didn’t occur, a Spencer-Penn School Preservation Organization was formed in August 2004 to obtain the property and develop plans for its future use. The group purchased the main school building and an adjacent cottage and 8 acres of land in November 2004. The group’s next order of business was to nominate the Spencer-Penn building for placement on the Virginia Register of Historic Landmarks. That effort was successful in March 2005, which allowed the organization to become eligible for state grants that went toward renovation of the historic structure. In 2009, the Spencer-Penn building

was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restoration of the entire landmark has resulted in the grand opening of Spencer-Penn Centre, which now serves as a community events destination. The center may be rented as a site for wedding receptions, banquets, dinner theater, classes, specialty shops, antique sales, exercise areas and sporting events. The centerpiece of Spencer-Penn

Centre is an auditorium that can seat 170 people. An adjoining classroom can be used to serve appetizers for a variety of events, while another adjoining classroom can be used as a caterer’s kitchen – complete with warming oven, refrigerator, sink and counter space. A stage is also present in the auditorium, and one classroom adjoining the stage can be used as a dressing room for performers.

Water is Our Business

Chemical Solutions Inc. Industrial Water Management

TODD BENNETT

Contact us on the Web at www.chemicalsolutionsofva.com

Mary Jordan is the president of the Spencer-Penn School Preservation Organization in Spencer.

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Portfolio

Here’s to Your Health, Neighbors S

hape up, Martinsville-Henry County – and the Healthy Community Challenge is a way to accomplish it. The inaugural Healthy Community Challenge was a 12-week health and fitness regimen that took place from May 1-July 31, 2009, as part of a health and wellness initiative introduced by a number of local organizations. Those organizations included the YMCA, Martinsville Henry County Coalition

for Health and Wellness, Henry County Parks and Recreation, the City of Martinsville and Activate Martinsville-Henry County. “Participants were issued a bingo card in order to keep track of specific activities as they completed them,” says Brad Kinkema, executive director of Martinsville YMCA. “The program culminated in a grand prize drawing, with the winner receiving a trip to Myrtle Beach for a family of four.”

Participants registered for the challenge by picking up one of three different activity bingo cards, and each time a bingo card was completed, participants earned a small prize. Completions of bingo cards got participants that much closer to the grand prize. “The challenges were not too difficult,” Kinkema says. “For example, one of them was walking three times around Jack E. Dalton Park in Collinsville, which would be a total of 1.8 miles. Another challenge was to walk around Uptown Martinsville for an hour.” The 12-week Challenge was created in an effort to get the community active and healthy, and was open to residents of all ages. Residents had the option of participating as an individual or as a team member, with all of the emphasis being on participation and fun. “The Challenge took into consideration that not everyone is on the same fitness level,” Kinkema says. “It was designed in such a way that people could choose the activities that best fit them. About 350 people participated, and we hope to host the Healthy Community Challenge once again in 2010.”

Southern S th Virginia’s Vi i i ’ Finest Fi t Sports S & Recreation Destination! Martinsville, VA www.southernvirginiasports.com 18

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The Martinsville YMCA participated in the inaugural Healthy Community Challenge.

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THE NO. 1 REAL ESTATE FIRM SINCE 1928

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Welcome to Martinsville Leisure Services!

/UR MISSION IS TO PROVIDE A FULL RANGE OF RECREATIONAL AND ATHLETIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE YOUTH ADULT SENIOR AND SPECIAL POPULATION IN THE CITY OF -ARTINSVILLE

0LEASE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ANY OF OUR PARKS AND SERVICES AND FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT ANY TIME .EW PROJECTS COMPLETED ARE THE NINE HOLE DISC GOLF COURSE AT * &RANK 7ILSON 0ARK AND ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO "EAVER #REEK 2ESERVOIR WITH SHELTER FOR RENTAL USE " )NDIAN 4RAIL tel fax WWW MARTINSVILLE VA GOV

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Portfolio

ou’d like an ice cream cone with two scoops? Sure! Would you like a side of kangaroo viewing with that? Purple Cow Dairy & Zoo is a restaurant, ice cream parlor and zoo all in one, located on Morehead Avenue in Ridgeway. Owners James and Vanessa McGivern operate the business, which often is filled with surprises. The restaurant serves food like barbecue pork sandwiches, steak hoagies and pizza. Meanwhile, the ice cream parlor is stocked with 25 flavors of Hershey ice cream that is served on cones, as milkshakes or in banana splits and other desserts. Visitors also will enjoy shopping at the gift shop, which features a variety of collectibles from throughout the region. But perhaps what Purple Cow Dairy & Zoo is best known for is the last part of its name – the zoo. After customers have enjoyed a meal or are finishing up sweet treats, they can wander outside onto the property and visit some of the animals that live there. Among the featured creatures are kangaroos, camels. peacocks and ostriches. Interacting with and even feeding the animals is encouraged. Thanks to the unusual combination of attractions there, the business also has become a popular spot for birthday parties. – Stories by Kevin Litwin

What’s Online e Take a peek around the Purple Cow Dairy & Zoo in this quick video at imagesmartinsvillehenrycounty.com.

The Purple Cow and Zoo in Ridgeway is a restaurant, ice cream parlor and zoo all in one.

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TODD BENNETT

Take a Sweet Safari Y

Enriching the lives of the people we touch

Since 1924, Hooker Furniture has sought to enrich lives in the local community. Through our innovative home furnishings of exceptional value, we want to make a positive difference to all stakeholders. Those stakeholders include customers, employees, suppliers, shareholders and the special group of people who make up the Martinsville/Henry County community.

w w w.hooker furniture.com

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Business

Home

Sweet Home

Furnishings

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UPTOWN FURNITURE OUTLET TAKES SHAPE STORY BY KEVIN LITWIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD BENNETT

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artinsville was once known as the world’s largest wood furniture manufacturer. That heritage dates all the way back to the late 19th century, and the industry has employed thousands of workers who ultimately became skilled craftsmen. But then came globalization, and those local jobs eventually dried up beginning in the late 20th century. Now, Martinsville realizes that it must build anew and think creatively while doing it. “After the Civil War, Martinsville didn’t sit back and wait for an influx of outside capital and labor to rebuild. It simply got creative and began cultivating agricultural, homegrown and entrepreneurial businesses, and became a dynamic part of the New South,” says Debbie Robinson, former director of tourism for the Martinsville Henry County Economic Development Corp. “That’s what we’re going to do again and use part of our heritage to accomplish it.” Robinson says Martinsville is now shifting its economic emphasis somewhat to tourism to promote the attractions and amenities that this part of southwestern Virginia has to offer. And to do that, enter the furniture industry again. “Martinsville has opened a furniture outlet cluster in the Uptown area, which is actually our downtown,” she says. “We are going to profit upon our furniture legacy by carving a new retail direction, specifically clustering a collection of outlets and décor showrooms along Main Street and Church Street.” The development is being marketed as Southern Virginia’s total home solution, offering retailers with products to meet every need for furnishing and decorating a home. Some of the stores offer full lines of furniture products with famed brand names such as Bassett, Hooker, Lane and Stanley, MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

and specific companies that have agreed to be tenants in the district include Century Furniture, KAS Oriental Rugs, LeatherTrend and Taylor King. The high quality and large variety of furniture and home décor products at are expected to attract thousands of regional, weekend and local shoppers to Uptown Martinsville each year. To ensure that happens, local economic development officials are working to spread the word that Martinsville is a top destination once again for customers looking for high-quality furniture at outlet prices. Besides shopping opportunities

galore, there’s also a quirky, yet very relevant, attraction awaiting visitors to the new furniture cluster. In a respectful nod to Martinsville’s past, the statue known as The Big Chair was installed in September 2009 at Uptown Heritage Park, which is located across from Martin Plaza. The Big Chair was transported across the country in 2002 as a promotion to raise awareness of Bassett’s 100-year anniversary. The chair is 25 feet tall and weighs 5,000 pounds, and was built by many local craftsmen who were once employed in the furniture industry.

“The city has created a furniture outlet cluster in the Uptown area in hopes of profiting upon its furniture legacy while carving a new retail direction.”

The old Globman’s building, now Martin Plaza, houses a new furniture and home decor outlet aimed at drawing shoppers from throughout the region.

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Business

Biz Briefs BUSINESSES – BOTH LARGE AND SMALL – THAT HELP DEFINE MARTINSVILLE AND HENRY COUNTY’S ECONOMIC CLIMATE

Scorecard BUSINESS AT A GLANCE

$428,619 Retail sales ($1,000)

$7,472 Retail sales per capita

$31,555 Accommodations and food service sales ($1,000)

2,991 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

MARTINSVILLE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Biz: hospital Buzz: Martinsville Memorial Hospital traces its history to 1920, when the 50-bed Shackelford Hospital opened on Church Street. It has since grown into a licensed 220-bed, full-service, acute-care facility. The hospital staff has welcomed more than 21 new physicians since January 2007. Six key values guide the hospital’s focus: service, quality, people, financial, growth and community. www.martinsvillehospital.com 24

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AMERICAN DISTRIBUTION AND WAREHOUSING SERVICES INC. Biz: fulfillment services Buzz: ADWS Inc. provides a wide variety of fulfillment services, including warehousing-bulk storage, fulfillment-pick and pack, label change-sewing, merchandisingdisplay assembly, light assembly of merchandising products and bulk mailings. They handle products ranging from towels and furniture to supermarket displays. www.adwsinc.com SMOKEY PIG BAR-B-QUE Biz: restaurant Buzz: Since it opened in late 2008, Smokey Pig Bar-B-Que on Greensboro Road in Martinsville has been garnering acclaim and new customers as word of mouth spreads about its Carolina-style barbecue and signature sweet, western and chipotle sauces. Those who prefer ribs or chicken will find them here, too. The restaurant also will take catering orders. (276) 632-5800 SOLID STONE FABRICS Biz: fabric company Buzz: Solid Stone Fabrics, a supplier of specialty fabrics to producers of dance, costume, swimwear and fitness apparel, has been growing steadily here since it opened in 2003. Most recently, Solid Stone opened a cut-and-sew operation within the former Troxler Furniture building on Fayette Street in Uptown Martinsville. The company is especially adept at serving small and mid-size companies. www.solidstonefabrics.com SPARTA INC. Biz: data analysis Buzz: In December 2008, SPARTA opened an Open Source Support Center in Martinsville’s Commonwealth Centre. SPARTA is a $300 million defense contractor with a strong presence in the U.S. National Intelligence Community. In May, SPARTA received the Keystone Award from the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce for creating the most jobs in the previous year. www.sparta.com MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

As a lighthouse brand, we’re committed to connecting with you and providing you a unique travel experience. Stay with us and “Make it Hampton.”

50 Hampton Dr. | Martinsville, VA 24112 (276) 647-4700 | www.hamptoninn.com “At ODU, every new mind, every new perspective widens the possibilities.” ~ John Broderick, President

Old Dominion University provides access to high quality, cost-effective, nationally recognized bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs on the campus of Patrick Henry Community College. In addition to academic excellence, the Old Dominion University staff in your community provides onestop access to advising and student services.

Modern Thinking

For more information: www.ph.vccs.edu/odu

Global Perspective

PHCC, West Hall Room 325 (276) 656-0278

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Business | Chamber Report

Championing the Region CHAMBER SERVES AS A STRONG BUSINESS ALLY IN RESTORING ECONOMIC VITALITY

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ne of the strongest allies area citizens have in their efforts to restore this region’s economic vitality is the MartinsvilleHenry County Chamber of Commerce. With unflagging determination, the chamber has waged the fight for far longer than the current nationwide economic downturn. And while the local battle isn’t over, there is progress.

With major changes here in recent years in the textile and furniture industries, retraining workers continues to be a top priority. “We’re going to be working really hard and very closely with the West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board to make sure we take care of those issues for our existing businesses but also for those businesses economic

Burch | Hodges | Stone life. auto. property. health. business. you.

At Burch-Hodges-Stone, we understand that each and every part of your life demands a different kind of care and protection. It’s a philosophy that’s worked for us since 1891. From your grandmother’s

development officials are working to bring here,” says Amanda Witt, Martinsville-Henry County Chamber president. Jay Edelen, chamber board chairman for 2008-09, says he has focused during his term on how businesses can use e-commerce in today’s world. Edelen, a Martinsville native, works in his family business, J.G. Edelen Co., which has provided hardware components to the furniture industry since 1923. Edelen launched www.coolknobsandpulls.com, an online portion of the business, in 2003. “Needless to say, it’s been a very difficult year, not only in Martinsville but across the United States,” he says. “This is nothing new to us, but it does add another level of urgency for us to help our local economy rebound.” The chamber’s 2009 successes include the biggest-ever Fast Track trade show, held in March, which allows area businesses a chance to network with each other and local citizens. During summer 2009, the chamber initiated a youth employment program, giving 100 or so young people work experience with chamber member businesses. The chamber also staged a successful supervisor-training course focused on distribution and customer service. – Anne Gillem

engagement ring to your son’s new ride to the laptops that will double your market share, we

TODD BENNETT

handle your life with care.

231 E. Church St. | 3rd Floor | Martinsville, VA 24112 | (276) 632-2161

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Jay Edelen is the 2009 Chairman of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

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Business | Economic Profile

MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COMMUNITY COUNTY BUSINESS CLIMATE Martinsville-Henry County offers several business advantages, including construction rates that are 28 percent below the national average and electric rates that are among the lowest in the nation. Competitive incentive packages, reasonable tax rates and a healthy, growing existing industry base make for a warm business climate.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

$38,772

Employer

No. of Employees

Henry County Public Schools

1,546

Henry County Median household income

Stanley Furniture Co. Inc.

900

Memorial Hospital of Martinsville

850

$36,017

StarTek

850

Martinsville Median household income

Springs Global US Inc.

585

Martinsville City Schools

495

$37,689

CP Films/Solutia Inc.

490

GCA Staffing Services Inc.

449

City of Martinsville

424

Wal Mart Associates Inc.

388

Hanesbrands

348

County of Henry

338

Around the Clock Staffing

325

VF Imagewear Inc.

300

Martinsville-Henry County Combined household income

ECONOMIC RESOURCES Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 115 Broad St. Martinsville, VA 24114 (276) 632-6401 www.martinsville.com Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corp. 134 E. Church St., Suite 200 Martinsville, VA 24114 (276) 403-5940 www.yesmartinsville.com

MORE EO ONLINE imagesmartinsvillehenrycounty.com m More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

Proud to be a member of the Martinsville/Henry County community.

25 Industrial Park Dr. Ridgeway, VA 24148 (276) 632-6301

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Fully Accredited School System

Learning for ALL – Whatever it Takes www.martinsville.k12.va.us

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Education

Popular School of Thought STUDENTS MAY COMPLETE 17 DEGREES AT NCI

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arning a master’s degree from the University of Virginia – without ever setting foot on its campus? Or completing bachelor’s degrees from Virginia Commonwealth or James Madison – without ever visiting those campuses either? These things are happening at New College Institute, which began in 2006 as a way for junior, senior and graduate college students to earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees from a variety of Virginia-based universities without ever having to leave Martinsville. NCI offers a total of 17 degree-completion programs from eight universities at its Uptown Martinsville campus.

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“For example, a student with an associate’s degree in motorsports engineering technology from Patrick Henry Community College can then enroll at NCI and take two more years to earn their four-year bachelor’s degree,” says Barry Dorsey, executive director of New College Institute. “Old Dominion University offers that particular motorsports program, so the student would ultimately earn a bachelor’s degree in motorsports from ODU while attending all of the classes here at NCI.” NCI is classified as a state-funded educational entity but not a university. However, it hopes to become one when the Virginia legislature votes

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on that matter following the 2012-2013 school year. “When we were founded in 2006, the legislature wanted to see how we progressed for six years before they ruled on the next phase of our future,” Dorsey says. “In the meantime, we serve the students of Martinsville and Henry County who now have easy access to many third-year and fourth-year college curriculums.” Dorsey says NCI expected initial enrollment in 2006 to be about 50 students, yet they welcomed 118 that year. During the 2009-2010 school year, he expects enrollment to reach 400 students. “We were initially housed on one floor in the former Shumate-Jesse furniture store, then expanded to all three floors,” Dorsey says. “And now we have branched into a second building – Jefferson Plaza – and are using one floor there but will soon expand to all three floors. We are certainly continuing to steadily grow.” Universities that offer degreecompletion programs at NCI are Averett, James Madison, Longwood, Norfolk State, Old Dominion, Radford, Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth. Programs offered include criminal justice, homeland security, business administration, nursing, information technology and elementary education. Meanwhile, students in Henry County have a couple of other higher education institutes they can attend in Martinsville. Patrick Henry Community College welcomes 3,300 students each year, and its excellent computer technology programs allowed PHCC in 2005 to be ranked No. 3 in the nation in the category of digital savviness among small, rural community colleges. Students also have the option of attending classes at National College, which offers numerous two-year degrees that allow students to pursue careers as medical assistants, business leaders, computer technicians or pharmacy technicians. “Residents of Henry County are fortunate to have excellent higher education options,” Dorsey says. “And perhaps the best part is that they don’t have to leave Henry County in order to pursue many of their education goals.” – Kevin Litwin MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

Arts & Culture

Feast Your Eyes on These MURAL PROJECT BENEFITS FROM TALENTS OF LOCAL AND VISITING ARTISTS

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“We invited Betty in, and she visited the market, went on farm visits, talked to a lot of people who go to the market and visited neighborhoods around the market,” Sell says. “We wanted her to capture the multicultural aspect of the Farmers’ Market. We wanted to go to somebody who had a very bright, vibrant and expressive style. We wanted somebody who could depict the livelihood, the vitality, the excitement that the Farmers’ Market is.” Sell, who has been with Piedmont Arts since 2004, says the placement of public art “shows vitality, shows community support and shows interest in the reinvention or renovation of areas like Uptown that, perhaps, need to be reawakened. “When you put in public art, it shows people are there. People are enjoying the spaces, and people are taking pride in the events the art depicts,” Sell says. “I would hope that the placement of these murals would depict an interest from the community that already exists but would also cause more people to come and participate in things like the Farmers’ Market.” Piedmont Arts is known for its outreach, Sell says, but a lot of it happens in classrooms and settings where the public isn’t always aware of it. “Part of the public art initiative was to be able to show people we can have a much more public impact as far as our community outreach processes,” Sell says. “And it’s also bringing the value of public art into the everyday routine of people who live here.” – Anne Gillem

TODD BENNETT

isitors to the Farmers’ Market in Uptown Martinsville can feast their eyes on the colorful fruits and vegetables offered – and on vibrant murals that depict produce shopping scenes and the farms from which the goods come. The Farmers’ Market mural project, unveiled in summer 2009, is part of a public art initiative coordinated by the Piedmont Arts Association and funded by a grant from The Harvest Foundation. The initiative, including murals at the YMCA, the Farmers’ Market and New College Institute, as well as public sculpture, is designed to place art throughout the community. Children enrolled in an after-school program at the Y created the first mural project on 4-foot by 8-foot wood panels in 2008. It is abstract and depicts expressive colorful figures, says Tina Sell, director of exhibitions for Piedmont Arts. Renowned Oregon artist Betty LaDuke was hired to create the second mural project, which is on four wood panels and mounted on a building behind the Farmers’ Market. A third mural project, depicting area historical scenes, is scheduled to be painted on the NCI building. The artist for the third project has not been selected. LaDuke, who painted the Dreaming Cows mural project for Heifer International in Little Rock, Ark., also unveiled in 2009, is known for her extensive travel and multicultural work, Sell says. Her work has been shown at the PAA in the past.

Studio 107 artist Celia Tucker adds detail to the Uptown Farmers’ Market mural that was created by local students.

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Sports & Recreation

Community Scores New Park SMITH RIVER SPORTS COMPLEX FEATURES SOCCER FIELDS AND MUCH MORE

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o matter how many points teams score at the new Smith River Sports Complex, the city of Martinsville and Henry County are the ultimate winners. The $8 million complex opened in July 2009, offering top-notch facilities for soccer and other sports, recreation opportunities and plenty of potential. In its first weeks, the complex, operated by the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority, hosted a Challenger Sports British Soccer Camp for children ages 4-16, as well as an adult soccer tournament. In addition, the SRSC is the new home for the Piedmont Youth Soccer League, starting in fall 2009. “So far, the community response to the outdoor complex has been very positive,” says Dennis Toney, executive director of the authority. “It’s a

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quality-of-life issue for them. They see something that will improve their standards of living by allowing their children to participate in soccer or football or other sports at a very nice complex. It also has walking trails and picnic shelters; it’s a very inclusive complex that can be used in a variety of ways – not strictly for sports – but also for relaxation and just enjoying the outdoors.” Toney says officials expect the complex also will provide a boost for the region’s economy. “We hope it will generate some tourism travel in the area, with visitors booking hotel rooms, buying meals and shopping in stores,” Toney adds. Located on 90 acres near the U.S. 58 Bypass at the Irisburg Road exit, the complex features two championship artificial turf soccer fields with lighting,

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electronic scoreboards and seating for 250 at each field, three full-size Bermuda grass fields with lights and irrigation, a practice field, concession stands, restrooms, two picnic pavilions, a playground and walking trails. Since it is adjacent to the Smith River, there are also plans for a canoe or kayak launch. The complex is available for picnics, class and family reunions, church and school events. Open year round, the authority will collect user fees that will help offset operating costs. Henry County donated the land where the complex is located, Toney says. The complex was funded by the Harvest Foundation, which was established in 2002 to invest funds from the sale of Memorial Hospital back into the community. “It is initially a soccer complex, but we’re looking at hosting most anything we can find sports-wise out there. We’ve talked to folks about lacrosse and field hockey, flag football and ultimate Frisbee. We’re looking at other things beyond soccer, but soccer is the initial driver,” Toney says. “We’ve got a lot of options. We’re at the tip of the iceberg now in getting started. We’re trying to wade in with some early events and, hopefully, it will build from there once people see it and get a chance to experience it.” – Anne Gillem

MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

Health & Wellness

No Appointment Necessary s 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Daily 1044 E. Church St. Martinsville, VA 24112

(276) 634-0010 • Sickness • Pre-employment Physicals • Breath Alcohol Testing • Foreign Body Removal • X-ray on Site

• Injuries • Sprains and Strains • Laceration Repair • EKG • Immunizations

• Illnesses • Workers’ Compensation • Drug Screenings • Laboratory Testing • School and Sports Physicals

PROMOTING INDEPENDENCE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Serving Martinsville, Danville and the counties of Henry, Franklin, Patrick, and Pittsylvania since 1976. Make the Agency on Aging your first call for information and services that help older adults and their caregivers.

204 Cleveland Ave. Martinsville, VA 24112 (276) 632-6442 Toll-Free: (800) 468-4571

www.southernaaa.org

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visit our

advertisers Abercrombie Oil Company www.abercrombieoil.com

King’s Grant www.sunnysidecommunities.com

Patrick Henry Community College www.ph.vccs.edu

American Distribution & Warehousing Services Inc. www.adwsinc.com

Lester Properties www.lesterproperties.net

Piedmont Regional Feeding & Oral Motor Clinic www.prfeedingclinic.com

American National Bank www.amnb.com

Martinsville City Public Schools www.martinsville.k12.va.us

Rives S. Brown www.rivessbrown.com

Berry Elliott Real Estate www.berryelliott.com

Martinsville Dupont Credit Union www.mdcu.org

S&K Office Products www.skofficeproducts.com

Burch, Hodges, Stone Inc. www.burch-hodges-stone.com

Martinsville First Savings Bank www.martinsvillefirst.com

Solid Stone Fabrics & Apparel www.solidstonefabrics.com

Chemical Solutions Inc. www.chemicalsolutionsofvirginia.com

Martinsville Henry County EDC www.yesmartinsville.com

Southern Area Agency on Aging www.southernaaa.org

City of Martinsville www.martinsville-va.gov

Martinsville Urgent Care http://gourgentcare.practicevelocity.com/ Martinsville_VA_166.htm

Southern Virginia Artisan Center www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org

Memorial Hospital www.martinsvillehospital.org

Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority www.southernvirginiasports.com

Mountain Valley Hospice www.mtnvalleyhospice.org

Stratford Square Apartments www.stratfordsquareapartments.com

Georgia Pacific Corrugated

National College www.national-college.edu

Triangle Electric Corporation www.triangleelectriccorp.com

Hampton Inn www.dalyseven.com

New College Institute www.newcollegeinstitute.org

Virginia Museum of Natural History www.vmnh.net

Hooker Furniture www.hookerfurniture.com

Old Dominion University www.dl.odu.edu

Workforce Investment Board www.wpwin.org

County of Henry www.co.henry.va.us Eye Physicians & Surgeons of Martinsville Family YMCA www.martinsvilleymca.com

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Health & Wellness

Building a Healthy Community BASSETT FAMILY PRACTICE HELPS MAKE QUALITY HEALTH CARE MORE ACCESSIBLE

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n January 2008, Martinsville and Henry County residents welcomed the arrival of Bassett Family Practice, a primary care clinic that aims to provide quality medical care to all individuals in the county, regardless of their income level or whether they have insurance. Patients are charged for services on a sliding-fee scale, making quality health care accessible to everyone. “This is a community health center mainly funded by a federal grant as well as state and local charitable foundations, and about 50 percent of the patients that we see are uninsured,� says Barbara Jackman, executive director of the Martinsville-Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness, which oversees Bassett Family Practice. “The other 50 percent of patients might be on Medicaid or Medicare but are struggling to meet the co-pays for office visits and prescriptions. We help in any way that we can.� Jackman says the nonprofit clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Tuesdays also feature extended evening hours. Its medical staff is made up of two primary care physicians and a nurse practitioner. “We also have some staff members who are called patient navigators,� she says. “Their duties vary greatly. They might help a patient sign up for Medicaid if they qualify, or tell a patient where they can pick up their medications. The navigators assist patients in maneuvering through the many diverse aspects of the health-care system.� As for additional doctors, Jackman says Bassett Family Practice is currently trying to recruit more to the clinic. “However, there is a shortage of primary care physicians nationwide to begin with, so recruiting more individuals to a rural area such as Bassett can really be difficult these days,�

she says. “That’s why we only have the one site, and there are no plans right now for additional locations. Instead, our immediate hope is to add more clinical staff workers so that, ultimately, we can extend our hours.� Jackman says the clinic is not technically affiliated with Martinsville Memorial Hospital, but the two health-care providers have formed partnerships on certain initiatives. “For example, our clinic works in conjunction with the hospital to make sure that applicable women are able to get mammograms, and we are also allowed to utilize the laboratory services at Martinsville Memorial,� she says. “The hospital and clinic also host health education classes and fitness programs. Martinsville Memorial is very helpful to what we do.� Jackman adds that Bassett Family Practice is always busy, so patients are asked to make appointments whenever possible. The phone number is (276) 629-1076. “We are located in Bassett in a small shopping mall behind Stanley Furniture,� she says. “As I mentioned before, our doors are open to everyone – no matter what.� – Kevin Litwin

Eye Physicians & Surgeons of Martinsville, Inc.

Donald M. Grayson, M.D.

Donald W. Richman, M.D.

Board Certified s #OMPLETE %YE #ARE s #ONTACT ,ENSES 0LUS .EW "IFOCAL $ISPOSABLES s #OMPUTERIZED 6ISION 4ESTING s )NJURIES %MERGENCIES

s .O 3TITCH /UTPATIENT #ATARACT ,ENS )MPLANT 3PECIALIST s $IABETIC 'LAUCOMA ,ASER 4HERAPY s #HILD S %YE $ISEASE n 3URGERY 3PECIALISTS s (OSPITAL !FFILIATED

749 A. E. Church • Martinsville Office Hours by Appointment Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Sat. 8:00 a.m.-11:45 p.m. 632-7205 • 632-3491

We accept Medicare & Medicaid Assignment

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Community Profile

MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COUNTY SNAPSHOT Many people visit Martinsville for world-class NASCAR racing at Martinsville Speedway. But Martinsville is more than motorsports. It’s home to many other attractions focused on the area’s rich cultural, natural and historical heritage.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Mabry Mill, 952-2947

Smith River

Martinsville Mustangs 632-9913

Smith River Sports Complex, 403-5968

Martinsville Reservoir

Uptown Walking Tour 632-5688

Southern Virginia Artisan Center, 632-8006

Martinsville Speedway 956-1543

Bassett Genealogical Library 629-9191

MURA (Martinsville Uptown Revitalization Association) 632-5688

Chamber of Commerce 632-6401 Fairy Stone State Park 930-2424 Historic Henry County Courthouse, 638-5464 Lake Sugar Tree Motorsport Park 650-3788

Philpott Lake 629-2703 Piedmont Arts Association 632-3221 Primland Resort 251-8012 Reynolds Homestead 694-7131

STRATFORD SQUARE APARTMENTS MARTINSVILLE’S FINEST 1, 2, and 3 Bedroom Townhouses Pool and Tennis Court

Virginia Museum of Natural History, 634-4141 Walker Fine Arts Center 656-0323

CLIMATE Average winter temperatures are in the low 40s, while the warmest months, July and August, average in the mid80s. The region enjoys almost 100 clear days, 45 inches of rain and approximately 14.5 inches of snowfall on average each year.

21 F January Low Temperature

46 F January High Temperature

63 F July Low Temperature

87 F July High Temperature

NUMBERS TO KNOW Blue Ridge Regional Library 632-7125 City manager 403-5180

1807 East Church Street Extension s PAGER .ANCY ( *OYCE -ANAGER

www.stratfordsquareapartments.com

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County administrator 634-4601 Henry County Senior Services, 634-4644 Henry County Sheriff 656-4200

MARTINSVILLE- HENRY COU NT Y

Henry County Parks & Recreation 634-4640 Henry County Public Information 634-2572 Henry County voter registrar 634-4698

UTILITIES

Water/Sewer Martinsville:

Cable Comcast, (888) 683-1000

City of Martinsville Utility Billing Department 403-5146

Electricity Martinsville: City of Martinsville Utility Billing Department 403-5146

Henry County: Henry County Public Service Authority, 634-2500

Martinsville leisure services 403-5379 or 403-5140

Henry County:

Natural Gas Southwestern Virginia Natural Gas, 632-5662

Martinsville police 656-5300

Appalachian Power (877) 237-2886

MEDICAL FACILITIES

Martinsville public information 403-5386

Phone EMBARQ, (800) 786-6272

Memorial Hospital 666-7200

Landfill, 656-5177

Martinsville Senior Citizens Center, 403-5260 Martinsville Sheriff 403-5151 Martinsville voter registrar 403-5122 Office of Tourism 403-5949 Public works 403-5154

MORE EO ONLINE imagesmartinsville henrycounty.com More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

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VISIT THE GALLERY: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

OUT ! K C ES CHE LASS C OUR

7EST #HURCH 3T s -ARTINSVILLE 6! CONTACT 3OUTHERN6IRGINIA!RTISAN#ENTER ORG WWW 3OUTHERN6IRGINIA!RTISAN#ENTER ORG 0(## IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AFlRMATIVE ACTION INSTITUTION

WWW ADWSINC COM 4URN KEY 0, $ISTRIBUTION 3TORAGE ,IGHT MANUFACTURING (UB ZONE 0ICK AND PACK

WWW ADWSINC COM -OVE YOUR BUSINESS HERE ¯ PROVIDE THE SALES AND LEAVE THE REST TO US )NCREASE PRO½TS %XPERIENCED MANAGEMENT TEAM 3IZE DOES NOT MATTER

WWW ADWSINC COM !MERICAN $ISTRIBUTION AND 7AREHOUSING 3ERVICES )NC #OMMONWEALTH "LVD -ARTINSVILLE 6!

Triangle Electric Corporation is a wholly owned and privately held business located in Ridgeway, Virginia. We have been providing safe, reliable, and competitively priced contracted electrical services to our customers for over 40 years.

Services: UĂŠ œ““iĂ€Vˆ>Â?ĂŠEĂŠ Industrial Electric UĂŠ ˆ}Â…ĂŠ6ÂœÂ?ĂŒ>}iĂŠEĂŠ1ĂŒÂˆÂ?ÂˆĂŒĂž UĂŠ ÂˆĂ€iVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ ÂœĂ€ÂˆÂ˜} UĂŠ-ÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒĂƒĂŠ ˆ}Â…ĂŒÂˆÂ˜} UĂŠ Ă•VÂŽiĂŒĂŠ/ÀÕVÂŽĂƒ UĂŠ ˆ}}iÀÊ iĂ€Ă€ÂˆVÂŽĂƒ

Serving the Local Communities Since 1956

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Contact Us: >˜VÞÊ Ă€>`ĂƒÂ…>Ăœ President nkbtriangle@earthlink.net œ˜>ĂŒÂ…>Â˜ĂŠ Ă€>`ĂƒÂ…>Ăœ jabtriangle@earthlink.net

Â…>Ă€Â?iĂƒĂŠ Ă€>`ĂƒÂ…>Ăœ chbtriangle@earthlink.net

Home s Agricultural s Commercial

ABERCROMBIE O I L C O M PA N Y

We are Defense Contractors SWaM CertiďŹ ed GSA Schedule HUBZone

Propane logs, heaters and water heaters

Triangle Electric Corporation

Fuel Oil U Kerosene U Diesel Fuel 24-Hour Emergency Service

xĂˆäĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â?`ÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ,`° Ridgeway, VA 24148

2590 Appalachian Dr. U Martinsville U 632-4131 www.abercrombieoil.com

(276) 957-2281 www.triangleelectriccorp.com

Today, more than ever, you need real estate agents you can trust. Berry-Elliott, Realtors速 co-owners,

Doris Berry

Doris Berry and Mary Rives Brown, have over 50 years of combined experience in the real estate business. Doris, Mary Rives and their staff have the experience, the track record and the reputation you expect to handle all your real estate honestly and effectively.

Mary Rives Brown

Contact Berry-Elliott today. 18 Starling Ave. Martinsville, VA 24112-2922

www.berryelliott.com Berry-Elliott Inc. is licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

(276) 656-1111 Toll-free: (888) 235-2873

Welcome to the County of Henry!

Living a healthy lifestyle? Try hiking one of the trails of Henry County or take a trip to the Smith River. Set in the foothills of Virginia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the County of Henry, Virginia is home to major industries, NASCAR Sprint Cup racing and an unsurpassed quality of life.

There is no better place to be.

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OFFICE PRODUCTS

219 E. Church St. Martinsville, VA 24114 (276) 632-2401 WWW.SKOFFICEPRODUCTS.COM

Ivhf!Tfmfdujpo! pg!Obnf!! Csboe!Qspevdut" Teaching & Instructional Resources

FREE Delivery! Locally Owned & Operated

For ALL Your Office Needs!

(276) 632-2401 Authorized Dealer for Canon & Sharp Copiers We service what we sell!

Supplier of stretch and technical fabrics, sublimation printing and foiling, and complete garment manufacturing.

730 E. Church St. • Martinsville, VA 24115 www.wpwin.org

Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA Martinsville YMCA – (276) 632-6427 Collinsville YMCA – (276) 647-3771 www.martinsvilleymca.com We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.

Solid Stone Fabrics and Apparel &AYETTE 3TREET s -ARTINSVILLE 6IRGINIA s WWW SOLIDSTONEFABRICS COM

Piedmont Regional Feeding & Oral-Motor Clinic, LLC

Amie Teague, MA/CCC-SLP Executive Director Speech/Language Pathologist

Bridging the gaps to communication and nutrition 22 E. Church St., Ste. 308 Martinsville, VA 24112 (276) 403-5083 (276) 638-2669 Fax ateague@prfeedingclinic.com www.prfeedingclinic.com

Ad Index 41 ABERCROMBIE OIL COMPANY 40 AMERICAN DISTRIBUTION & WAREHOUSING SERVICES INC.

27 GEORGIA PACIFIC CORRUGATED 25 HAMPTON INN 21 HOOKER FURNITURE

30 AMERICAN NATIONAL BANK 6 KING’S GRANT 42 BERRY ELLIOTT REAL ESTATE C2 LESTER PROPERTIES 26 BURCH, HODGES, STONE INC. 17 CHEMICAL SOLUTIONS INC. 20 CITY OF MARTINSVILLE

27 MARTINSVILLE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 35 MARTINSVILLE DUPONT CREDIT UNION

43 COUNTY OF HENRY 33 EYE PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS OF MARTINSVILLE 45 FAMILY YMCA

19 MARTINSVILLE FIRST SAVINGS BANK C4 MARTINSVILLE HENRY COUNTY EDC

Ad Index (cont.) 31 MARTINSVILLE URGENT CARE 32 MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 42 MOUNTAIN VALLEY HOSPICE 40 NATIONAL COLLEGE 3 NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE 25 OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY 38 PATRICK HENRY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 45 PIEDMONT REGIONAL FEEDING & ORAL MOTOR CLINIC 19 RIVES S. BROWN 44 S&K OFFICE PRODUCTS 45 SOLID STONE FABRICS & APPAREL 31 SOUTHERN AREA AGENCY ON AGING 39 SOUTHERN VIRGINIA ARTISAN CENTER 18 SOUTHERN VIRGINIA RECREATION FACILITIES AUTHORITY 34 STRATFORD SQUARE APARTMENTS 41 TRIANGLE ELECTRIC CORPORATION 20 VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 45 WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD

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