Showcase Magazine May 2017

Sponsored by Suicide Education Awareness and Support (SEAS) Coalition and DanvillePittsylvania Community Services

t ou l e v ra t o t on s a re o n s i e er h “T ” . re a c rt a e h t a re g or f n w of t o — Jim Shields, Danville businessman

Keep Your Heart Close When Jim Shields suffered a heart attack, the cardiac catheterization lab team at Danville Regional Medical Center, a Duke heart affiliate, was able to quickly diagnose a blockage in his heart – “the widow maker.”

Jim survived, thanks in part to the smooth and seamless care he received at Danville Regional. He participated in Danville Regional's cardiac rehabilitation program and still runs his business full-time.

At Danville Regional, your heart is our priority. We are committed to delivering you expert, compassionate care from procedure through rehabilitation. With the region's only ER, only Accredited Chest Pain Center and only Advanced Certified Primary Stroke Center, the choice is easy.

You can keep your heart close. Just like Jim. Read about Jim and other patients’ stories at DanvilleRegional.com/stories.

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| MAY 2017 | SHOWCASE Magazine 3

FEATURE S ROOSTER WALK Ring in (or Rock Out)

by Beth Stinnett

The Many Faces of MENTAL HEALTH

by Paul Seiple

FOR FLIP His Story is Not Over

by Erin Thackston

PATHS Integrated Behavioral Health

by Bevin Lovelace, LPC

DEPARTM E N T S HE SAID SHE SAID Pink Baby

By Larry Oldham and Dena Hill

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL JAMEEL AUSTIN

by Lee Vogler

NOT SO COMMON – COMMON SENSE!

A Perspective on Public Schools

by Stan Jones

ALSO IN S I D E

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FROM THE EDITOR PAWS FOR THE CAUSE

By Paulette Dean

follow us @showcaseDVA like us Showcase Magazine

Spon so Suicid red by e Educ at Awar ion en Supp ess and or Coaliti t (SEAS) on an Danv d ille Pittsylv Comm ania un Servic ity es

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we’d love to hear from you! info@showcasemagazine.com

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ON THE The Many Faces of Mental Health

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| MAY 2017 | SHOWCASE Magazine 5

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Researching this issue was an eye-opening experience for me. It’s nearly impossible to go through a day without seeing an article or hearing something on television with regards to improving physical health. Coverage of mental health isn’t as extensive, but as noted several times in this issue, mental health and physical health go hand in hand.

Unfortunately, there are stigmas surrounding mental health ailments that aren’t present when it comes to physical health ailments. Stigma must be erased. Mental illnesses are on the rise and those suffering, and their families, need support in disclosing their illness and in seeking treatment. In March, the World Health Organization reported more than 300 million people suffer from depression making it the leading cause of poor health worldwide. Research from the New York University Langone Medical Center found over 8 million American adults suffer from serious psychology distress, which the CDC defines as a mix of “feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and restlessness” strong

Showcase MAY 2017

enough to interfere with physical health. Again, mental health and physical health go hand in hand.

STAFF

CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks, scott@showcasemagazine.com President Larry Oldham, larry@showcasemagazine.com

In our area, we are fortunate to have many top-notch organizations and knowledgeable people to help promote the importance of positive mental health. Awareness months are great in bringing light to subjects, but each day should be an awareness day. The organizations and individuals highlighted in this issue are dedicated to making the community aware of mental health every day through classes, education, and life experiences.

Editorial Director Paul Seiple, paul@showcasemagazine.com Graphic Designer Kim Demont, demontdesign@verizon.net Finance Manager Cindy Astin, cindy@showcasemagazine.com Chief Photographer Mariah Blankenship Springs ADVERTISING 1.877.638.8685 Larry Oldham, Director of Sales and Marketing larry@showcasemagazine.com, 434.728.3713 Lee Vogler, Marketing Consultant lee@showcasemagazine.com, 434.548.5335

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Subscribe to Home Delivery for $24 per year

Classes, such as Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), are made available, for free, to the community. A MHFA course only takes 8 hours of your time. In that small amount of time, you can learn to save someone’s life. Everyone should get educated.

753 Main Street #3 | Danville, VA 24541 Phone 1.877.638.8685 | Fax 925.380.5404 info@showcasemagazine.com www.showcasemagazine.com MAY 2017 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paulette Dean | Dena Hill | Stan Jones Bevin Lovelace, LPC | Larry Oldham | Paul Seiple Beth Stinnett | Erin Thackston | Lee Vogler MAY 2017 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jameel Austin | Roger Gupta Martinsville Henry County Department of Tourism Michelle Dalton Photography

Enjoy the issue.

Paul Seiple EDITOR Evince

to the ADVERTISERS who make this publication possible.

Please be generous in supporting our local businesses.

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AmeriStaff Barkhouser Ford Lincoln Beacon Credit Union Centra Medical Group Commonwealth Home Health Care, Inc. Danville Community College Danville Gastroenterology Center, PC Danville Historical Society Danville Regional Foundation Danville Regional Medical Center Danville Toyota DCC Educational Foundation Demont Design

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Excelen Performance Goodwill Industries of South Central Virginia, Inc. Jarrod Brown, DDS DWS KARE Pharmacy & Compounding Luncheon Pilot Club of Danville Mariah Springs Photography Martinsville Henry County Middle Border Forward Moses Cone Hospital Mount Hermon Volunteer Fire & Rescure PATHS Piedmont Regional Feeding & Oral Motor Clinic, LLC

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12 Piney Forest Health & Rehabilitation Center 22 Prevention Services Division 23 Prevention Services Division 36 Reid Street Gallery 13 Sam’s Club 12 Shh... Intimacy

on a New Level 13 Southside Urology

& Nephrology 40 Southside Virginia

Wildlife Center 28 URW Community

Federal Credit Union 41 Wilkins & Co. Realtors

Meditation

Casey

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Cone Health

Heart & Vascular Center

One of the country’s most advanced Cardiovascular Care facilities is less than an hour from Danville. #1 in the Nation for the Lowest 30-day Readmission Rate for Heart Attack Patients.¹

Top 1 Percent in the Nation by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, 2016

Top 10 Percent for Medical Excellence in Cardiac Care, Major Cardiac Surgery and Interventional Coronary Care.²

Rated “High Performing” in Heart Bypass Surgery, Aortic Valve Surgery and Heart Failure.³

The heart and vascular expertise found at Moses Cone Hospital isn’t confined to Greensboro, NC. The physicians of Cone Health Medical Group HeartCare offer services in communities near Danville, including Eden and Reidsville.

Cone Health offers convenience through easy and fast appointments, accessible parking and close connections with pioneering cardiologists and specialty surgeons in a community setting. Ask your doctor for a Cone Health heart and vascular care specialist and learn more at conehealth.com/heart or by calling Cone Health’s physician referral service at 866-449-8688.

Exceptional Care Close to Home. Every Day.™ ¹ U.S. government Hospital Compare website, 2016 | ² CareChex® — an information service of Quantros, Inc., 2017 | ³ U.S. News & World Report, 2017

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HE SAID...

In 2004, we drove to Nashville, Tennessee to pick up a new puppy. When we met the breeder, she handed over a small black and white ball of fur who cuddled in your lap all the way back to Danville. You named this standard party poodle, Sophie. The breeder also gave you a pink elephant and told you the elephant was a gift for buying Sophie from her but also a toy that Sophie might like.

I thought little about it as I had never been around pets growing up. I thought of it as either a kind gesture on her part or a feeling of guilt for charging hundreds of dollars for a DOG. Little did I know I would grow attached to Sophi and she would bring us so many days, hours, months, and years of happiness.

Not completely understanding the mind of a dog, I asked you many questions over the years about why she did certain things. You talked to her like she was one of the family and she tilted her head back and forth as if she understood you. I never believed that more until recently. Now, when I ask her if she wants to go out, or wants a treat, she shakes her head at me as if she is answering me. It is amazing that she acts like she understands. I have been asking you for thirteen years, what is it about that pink elephant that mesmerizes her so much? She has over a million toys to play with in her room and she drags that elephant around every place she goes. One of us named her “Pink Baby” some time back, and we both ask her all the time, “Where is Pink Baby?” I solved the mystery last month about Pink Baby. You left for work and she headed right into her room and brought Pink Baby to me. She did that over and over last month, no matter where I went in the house, Sophie brought Pink Baby to me. I have decided that Pink Baby is an extension of you

in her mind. That is so cool that she thinks of you as her mother. With that in mind I want to wish you a Happy Mother’s Day from Sophie and me. You are our Pink Baby.

SHE SAID...

What a nice idea you have come up with regarding Pink Baby. I always thought she just remembered it from her puppy days and thought of the pink elephant as her oldest toy.

I know for years you have been telling Sophie that she was a good mother to Pink Baby and you always congratulated her for being a good mommy when she brought Pink Baby to you. We have talked about this ever since we noticed she had affection for Pink Baby over all the other stuffed animals. Your new hypothesis is interesting, to say the least, and I am flattered that you would recognize or bring this to my attention. I really think it is just her favorite toy.

I have had other dogs and even one of my children who had a favorite blanket that was dragged around until they were older. (She still has it also). Sophie has been favoring Pink Baby since we brought her home. I like your analogy and since this is Mother’s Day month, I am going to accept the fact that maybe she does think of Pink Baby as my replacement or her mommy figure when I am not there. I hope this doesn’t give you license to start calling me a dog or Pink Baby Momma.

by Larry Oldham and Dena Hill PHOTO BY MICHELLE DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY

I would like to wish all of the mothers out there a Happy Mother’s Day and be sure to hug your children extra hard or your pet if you are motherly towards them.

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Feature

by Beth Stinnett photos provided by Martinsville Henry County Department of Tourism, Roger Gupta

Every year Southern Virginia rocks all the way through Memorial Day weekend on Pop’s Farm in Axton, VA. This year marks the 9th year of the Rooster Walk Music & Arts festival (May 25th28th) that showcases local, regional and even national talent. With musical genres including funk, rock, bluegrass, country, blues, reggae, jazz, Americana and more. In May of 2016, Rooster Walk was named one of the Top 5 rock festivals in the state of Virginia by the Richmond Times Dispatch.

In addition to four days of amazing music, the family-friendly festival offers a wide variety of kids’ activities, craft beer, great food, arts and numerous opportunities to enjoy Virginia’s great outdoors with a 5k trail race, yoga, a disc golf course and beautiful on-site camping. Rooster Walk is very family friendly and children 12 & under receive free admission with a paying adult. Greensky Bluegrass will headline RW9 with a two-hour set on Saturday night. The Wailers (Reunited!), Anders Osborne, Anderson East, Mandolin Orange, The Motet, Pimps of Joytime, the Marcus King Band and many more will perform over the four-day festival.

This unique festival experience is crafted to cater

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GSBG

Anderson East

Billy Strin

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to all genres of festival goers. If you are looking for family oriented vacation ideas, Rooster Walk is the perfect place for you. It has a designated Kids Zone with a playground, stage for live music, crafting area, and a massive slip’ n slide. If you consider yourself a foodie, the festival offers a wonderful range of food vendors that will leave you wanting more. Rooster Walk is also a perfect match for the craft beer enthusiast as a range of craft beers is offered at different locations throughout Pop’s Farm. You can also experience the festival day and night by camping on site.

Whether you are an avid camper or a firsttimer, there are camping options for everyone to enjoy. If you enjoy running outdoors be sure to check-out the Tuff Strutter 5K during the weekend. It is an annual trail race that will not leave you disappointed. Rooster Walk is not just a music festival. It is designed to appeal to all the senses, with elements of different types of festivals, nestled inside of one big event. Plus the unique scenery at Pop’s Farm showcases the true beauty of Virginia.

The full Rooster Walk 9 line up: Greenksy Bluegrass (progressive bluegrass/Kalamazoo, Mich.) The Wailers (Reggae/Kingston, Jamaica), Anders Osborne (rock/ New Orleans, La.),

Marc us King Band

The Wailers

Anderson East (R&B Soul/ Nashville, Tenn.) Mandolin Orange (folk/ Chapel Hill, N.C.), The Motet (funk/Boulder, Colo.) Pimps of Joytime (funk/Brooklyn, NY), Marcus King Band (southern rock/Greenville, S.C.), Mountain Heart (progressive bluegrass, Nashville, Tenn.), Billy Strings (progressive bluegrass/Nashville, Tenn.), Eric Krasno (rock-jazz/NYC), The Nth Power (funk/soul; New Orleans), Mipso(Americana; Chapel Hill, N.C.), Yarn (roots rock/Brooklyn, NY), Susto (indie rock/Charleston, S.C.), Love Canon (bluegrass tribute to 1980s rock; Charlottesville), Jon Stickley Trio (bluegrass/jazz; Asheville, N.C.), Stop Light Observations (rock; Charleston, S.C.), The Commonheart (R&B/soul; Pittsburgh, P.A.), Erin & The Wildfire (rock soul/Charlottesville, VA), The Trongone Band (southern rock/ Richmond, VA), Empire Strikes Brass (brass band; Asheville, N.C.), Mighty Joshua (reggae; Richmond, V.A.), Sanctum Sully (progressive bluegrass; Asheville, N.C.), Violet Bell featuring Lizzy Ross (folk; Durham, N.C.), After Jack (folk; Rocky Mount, V.A.), Mason Via Funk Band (funk/soul; Danbury, N.C.), GOTE (rock; Roanoke, V.A.), Mission in the Rain (Jerry Garcia Band tribute/

Black Mountain, NC), Disco RisquĂŠ (funk/rock; Charlottesville, V.A.), Monster Atlantic (rock; Roanoke, V.A.), South Hill Banks Juliana (progressive bluegrass; Richmond, MacDowell V.A.), Martinsville-Henry County Praise Band (Gospel/praise; Martinsville, V.A.), ShadowGrass (youth progressive bluegrass; VA & NC), Rex McGee & John Garris (bluegrass/ jazz; North Carolina), The Delics (punk rock/ Collinsville, VA), The Fernandez Sisters (bluegrass; Durham, N.C.), The Wildmans (youth bluegrass; Floyd, V.A.), The Bucket Brothers (youth jazz; Chapel Hill, N.C.), Julianna MacDowell (easy listening/Loudon County, VA) and The PHCC Jazz Band (big-band jazz; Martinsville-Henry County, V.A.).

Fans can expect various cross-collaborations among the performers, craft beer, outdoor excursions, arts and crafts, kids’ activities and camping in a gorgeous setting. May 25th-28th in Axton, VA. Tickets and additional information can be found at www.RoosterWalk.com.

www.showcasemagazine.com www.showcasemagazine.com | MARCH | MAY 2017

| SHOWCASE Magazine 11

Your therapy shouldn’t take the day off.

Call us for a tour and to discuss a plan of care to fit your individual needs.

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10/11/2016 10:33:44 AM

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Director of Prevention Services at Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services

Brother of Phillip Wright

Chair of Suicide Education Awareness and Support (SEAS) Coalition

Officer, Danville Police Department

Director of Adult Clinical Services at Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services

Medical Director at Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services

Mental Health and Suicide Survivor

Mother of Phillip Wright

Field Ambassador for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Harmony House Member, Hoping to get a job soon

Nurse at Southern Virginia Mental Health Institute

Resident at Piney Ridge, “Success in the making�

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Feature

by Paul Seiple photos by Mariah Blankenship Springs

Mental Health America (MHA), with over 100 years of service, is “the nation’s leading communitybased nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans.”

MHA developed the Before Stage 4 (B4Stage4) philosophy which follows the principle of “mental health conditions should be treated long before they reach the most critical points in the disease process. “ The plan of action for combating heart disease and cancer has a solid blueprint — prevention, symptom identification, treatment with hopes of reversing (or stopping the progression) of the disease. B4Stage4 educates and brings attention to early symptoms and identifies of the underlying disease of mental illness. This knowledge is crucial in developing a successful treatment plan.

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE UNITED STATES Mental illness is not rare in the United States. The National Alliance of Mental Health (NAMH) cites mental health conditions as “the leading cause of disability across the United States.” Based on data published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), in 2015, there were nearly 44 million Americans with AMI (Any Mental Illness). AMI is defined as “A mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders);

diagnosable currently or within the past year; and, of sufficient duration to meet diagnostic criteria specified within the 4th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSMIV).” AMI covers a broad range from “no impact to mild-impairment to significantly disabling impairment” which is known as SMI (Serious Mental Illness).

Mental illness is treatable. Yet, according to the NAMH, less than half the adult Americans who need treatment get it. Mental illness is very real, and unfortunately so is the stigma that shrouds it. In some instance, those with mental health conditions face bullying, rejection, and discrimination. Encountering these things makes the road to recovery even more winding. Stigma leads to isolation and secrecy which severely hamper treatment. Here is a sobering fact, NAMH states, “Suicide is the second leading cause of death of youth ages 15-24 and the tenth leading cause of death for all Americans.” There is nothing embarrassing or shameful about mental illness.

NAHM suggests three steps to becoming stigma free — 1. Educate yourself and others, 2. See the person, not the condition, and 3. Take action.

Our area has a valuable network of programs and services consisting of professionals and volunteers with the mission of helping those with mental illness as well as erasing the stigma that comes with the disease.

Track gratitude and achievement with a journal - include 3 things you were grateful for and 3 things you were able to accomplish each day.

Check up on your mental health. Take a screen at www.screening.org. It’s free, anonymous, and confidential.

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Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an 8-hour course offered at Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services (DPCS). Director of Prevention Services of Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services, Amanda Oakes, says “Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The training gives you the skills needed to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.”

The course is recommended for age 18-years or older. Two versions of training are offered — one focusing on adult mental illness, and the other with a focal point on youth Adult MHFA Training scheduled for mental illness. Oakes Saturday, June 1; Tuesday, June 27; adds, “MHFA has Tuesday, August 29; and Monday, introduced five new October 30. Youth MHFA Training modules for special scheduled for Tuesday, May 23; populations to enhance Tuesday, July 25; and Wednesday, the adult version they September 27. include: Public Safety, Military, Higher Education To register for training call and Aging. We can 434.797.3981 ext. 3810. bring these specialized For groups of ten or more we trainings to fire can bring the training to you. departments, colleges, universities, nursing homes, veteran’s groups, assisted living facilities, to name a few. “ Mental health should be viewed with the same importance as physical health. Like all physical health conditions, prevention, necessary and early treatment with the goal of recovery is the focus of mental health. “I don’t think we give much thought to our overall mental health or understand how it impacts our overall physical health. We also know, like other physical health problems, the earlier we can detect a mental health condition the better we can treat the problem and prevent it from escalating,” Oakes says.

Early detection is the key and understanding mental first aid could help you help someone else if the need presents itself. “Most of us know how to apply a bandage to a cut or know the signs of a heart attack. Many know how to start CPR or call 911. Very few of us know the signs of a panic attack or know what to do if we are concerned about someone we love who may be struggling

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with mental illness or drug abuse. MHFA takes the fear and hesitation away and it gives you a plan of action to use,” Oakes adds.

DPCS offers monthly training. The training is hosted during the week and on Saturdays and there is no cost. There are now more than one million Americans trained in MHFA. Oakes adds, “Locally, we have trained 193 since we started trainings in 2014. DPCS has four trainers and plans to train an additional three staff this year. “If you are interested in taking it a step further and becoming MHFA trainer, Oakes says, “You must be certified by Mental Health First Aid USA to teach either the adult or youth Mental Health First Aid course. Certification is achieved through a 5-day interactive training. Individuals, not organizations, receive instructor certification.”

For more information, visit www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org.

India Looney, Cindy Everett, Christy A. Taylor, Kimberly Kidd

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CIT International is “a non-profit membership organization whose primary purpose is to facilitate understanding, development and implementation of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Programs throughout the U.S. and in other nations worldwide in order to promote and support collaborative efforts to create and sustain more effective interactions among law enforcement, mental health care providers, individuals with mental illness, their families and communities and to reduce the stigma of mental illness.”

CIT International “aspires to be a leader in promoting safe and humane responses to those experiencing a mental health crisis.” The mission of CIT International is to, “Promote community collaboration using the CIT Program to assist people living with mental illness and/or addiction who are in crisis.”

Melanie Tosh, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Director of Adult Clinical Services at DPCS, says, “CIT stands for Crisis Intervention TEAM. Some people mistake the name for a training program.

CIT is more than just training. It is a mindset and a team approach to assisting people experiencing a crisis that happen to have a mental illness or addiction to substances. “As Director of Adult Clinical Services, Tosh supervises the Emergency Services Coordinator, Adult Outpatient Services Coordinator, CIT Coordinator, and the Residential Manager for Piney Ridge Apartments. “We manage crisis situations on a daily basis.

Individuals are able to be seen on a walk-in basis for numerous reasons. Some individuals are seeking services to address mental health and substance use issues. Some individuals are in a mental health or substance use crisis and need help on a more immediate level. Our clinicians assess these individuals and recommend an appropriate service level for the individual from a referral to community providers to the need for hospitalization,” Tosh says.

Set up a summer get away. It could be camping with friends or a trip to the tropics. The act of planning a vacation and having something to look forward to can boost your overall happiness for up to 8 weeks!

In 2013, Tosh took part in the building of a Crisis Intervention Team in the Danville-Pittsylvania County area. “A small group of clinicians and police officers took a class that specifically taught the core meaning of a Crisis Intervention Team and the skills to use when faced with an individual in crisis. Since that time, Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services and local law enforcement have joined together to help individuals in crisis.

Our community has embraced the CIT concept and law enforcement and mental health professionals at the CSB are working together to connect individuals with services in our community.

Currently, I represent our local region as a delegate for the VACIT Coalition,” Tosh adds. The VACIT cites its mission as to “promote and support the effective development and implementation of CIT programs in Virginia in order to improve the criminal justice and mental health systems and to help prevent inappropriate incarceration of individuals with mental illness.”

“CIT brings awareness to criminal justice and mental health professionals in our community who often come in contact with individuals experiencing a crisis and diagnosed with a mental illness or co-occurring substance use disorder.

These professionals include law enforcement, jail/ corrections officers, and mental health clinicians.,” Tosh says. CIT utilizes training and community relationships to bring attention to the symptoms of mental illness and to offer ways to approach someone who is dealing with a mental health or substance abuse crisis. “CIT provides an opportunity to understand what it may be like to ‘be in the shoes’ of someone diagnosed with a mental illness. Training also brings awareness to the resources available in the community that can help. This mindset helps to reduce the stigma of mental illness and to help professionals take the time to listen to individuals in hopes

Work your strengths. Do something you’re good at to build self-confidence, then tackle a tougher task. You’ve got this!

Keep it cool for a good night’s sleep. The optimal temperature for sleep is between 60° and 67°F.

Continued to Page 20

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”

-Martin Luther King Jr. Think of something in your life you want to improve, and figure out what you can do to take a step in the right direction.

Continued on page 20

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Cephus Johnson www.showcasemagazine.com

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of directing them to appropriate resources. .

Individuals may come to the attention of law enforcement, corrections, or other first responders due to exhibiting symptoms or behaviors that are misinterpreted as criminal in nature, inappropriate, or dangerous. CIT has enhanced officer skills to more effectively communicate with and understand the needs of individuals with mental illness in our community. In numerous situations, officers are able to reduce the potential for misunderstanding and improve their ability to deescalate situations while reducing the need for arrest and/or incarceration, afford individuals with mental illness a sense of dignity in a crisis situation, link individuals to appropriate care, reduce the risk of injury, and increase the public’s awareness of mental health needs in our community. ” Tosh adds. Individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis can request a CIT-training officer to respond to the scene.

Locally, the CIT course is a 40-hour, 5-day curriculum that is approved by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Tosh says, “CIT’s training curriculum is designed for law enforcement, jail/corrections officers, and other first responders. Our local law enforcement and jail/corrections officers are strongly a part of our CIT program. Thus far, Danville-Pittsylvania CIT

Experiment with a new recipe, write a poem, paint or try a Pinterest project. Creative expression and overall wellbeing are linked.

Show some love to someone in your life who you hold dear.

Close, quality relationships are key for a happy, healthy life.

Boost brainpower by treating yourself to a couple pieces of dark chocolate every few days. The flavanoids, caeine, and theobromine in chocolate are thought to work together to improve alertness and mental skills.

If you are living with a mental illness or in the recovery process, visit www.mental healthamerica.net/feelslike.

Remember - you’re not alone!

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has trained 285 officers and clinicians, as well as 35 dispatchers. We would like to expand our team to include other first responders such as fire and EMS by participating in training.” If you don’t belong to those groups but would still like to learn more about mental health and the skills needed when addressing a mental health crisis, Tosh suggests attending a Mental Health First Aid or Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) workshop.

“It has been a pleasure to be a part of the Danville-Pittsylvania Crisis Intervention Team.

The team has built a bridge between our law enforcement and corrections officers and the mental health system. Through this process, our community professionals are able to work together to better help the individuals we serve. We reach out to one another to solve complex issues, understand each other’s role in the mental health system, and work together to reduce the stigma of mental illness while connecting individuals with services,” Tosh concludes.

Danville-Pittsylvania CIT includes the following partners: Danville Police Department, Danville Sheriff’s Office, Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services, and Danville Regional Medical Center

Sometimes, we don’t need to add new activities to get more pleasure. We just need to soak up the joy in the ones we’ve already got. Trying to be optimistic doesn’t mean ignoring the uglier sides of life.

It just means focusing on the positive as much as possible.

Feeling anxious? Channel your inner child and do some coloring for about 20 minutes to help you clear your mind.

Pick a design that’s geometric and a little complicated for the best eect.

Take time to laugh. Hang out with a funny friend, watch a comedy or check out goofy videos online. Laughter helps reduce anxiety.

Go off the grid. Leave your smart phone at home for a day and disconnect from constant emails, alerts, and other interruptions. Spend time doing something fun with someone face-to-face.

Dance around while you do your housework. Not only will you get chores done, but dancing reduces levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases endorphins (the body’s “feel-good” chemicals).

Feeling tired? Go ahead and yawn. Studies suggest that yawning helps cool the brain and improves alertness and mental eiciency.

Relax in a warm bath once a week. Try adding Epsom salts to soothe aches and pains and help boost magnesium levels, which can be depleted by stress.

CITAC is an acronym for Crisis Intervention Team Assessment Center. The center is located adjacent to Danville Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Department. CITAC opened in the community in October 2015. Melanie Tosh, Director of Adult Clinical Services at Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services, says, “CITAC is staffed with an off-duty officer, peer support specialist, and Emergency Services clinician.” All DPCS Emergency Services clinicians are certified in Virginia as pre-admission screeners by completing the educational, experimental, and orientation requirements in Emergency Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Tosh continues, “The center is open daily from noon until midnight, providing a location for officers to take individuals in crisis and transfer custody to provide for immediate evaluation and triage in a therapeutic setting. Expediting the emergency custody process means that officers are able to return to the community, and DPCS Emergency Services personnel can begin the triage and assessment process quicker. During 2016, a total of 310 individuals were provided service by DPCS ES personnel at CITAC, and able to accept approximately 68 percent of all

emergency custody order transfers from the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County. The addition of the assessment center has been a great benefit to our community.”

DPCS Emergency Services provide 24-hour crisis intervention, counseling and referral, brief counseling, pre-admission screening for hospitalization, and court liaison services for involuntary commitment procedures. Any individual can access DPCS emergency services on a walk-in basis for assessment and referral services Monday – Friday at 245 Hairston Street from 8:30am – 3:30pm. DPCS Emergency Services are available 24/7 at 434.793.4922 or Toll Free: 1.877.793.4922.

Crystal Conard (Danville Sheriff’s Office) Melanie Tosh, LPC, Michael Owens (Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office), Brenton Hatfield (Danville Police Department)

Has something been bothering you? Let it all out…on paper.

Writing about upsetting experiences can reduce symptoms of depression.

Spend some time with a furry friend. Time with animals lowers the stress hormone cortisol, and boosts oxytocin - which stimulates feelings of happiness. If you don’t have a pet, hang out with a friend who does or volunteer at a shelter.

“What lies before us and what lies behind us are small matters compared to what lies within us. And when you bring what is within out into the world, miracles happen.”

- Henry David Thoreau Continued on page 24

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In Virginia (and nationally) suicide rates are on a gradual incline. Based on figures from the Virginia Department of Health, in 2013, 1,047 Virginians committed suicide. That number increased to 1,146 in 2014. Suicide ranked 11th for the cause of deaths among Virginians in 2013. It was the 2nd leading cause of death for the ages of 10 to 24 in 2013.

Mental Health America (MHA) believes “that suicide is the most preventable type of death and each person can do something to help.”

Suicide prevention is something that should be familiar to everyone. Knowing the warning signs and understanding how to give assistance to those at risk can save a life. Suicide Education Awareness and Support (SEAS) is a local suicide prevention coalition serving Danville and Pittsylvania County, but soon hopes to grow to service South Boston and Halifax County. SEAS was first introduced at a news conference during National Suicide Prevention Week in September 2009. Camilla McCoy, Chair of SEAS Coalition says, “At that

Kevin Hines will provide a 60-minute presentation on his story. Sharing his survival experience after jumping from Golden Gate Bridge in September 2000, and now being an advocate for Mental Health and those at risk for suicide. Following his presentation Hines will also share his recovery tools, The Art of Wellness, that he utilizes to sustain good mental health and coping.

The session will conclude with a Q&A and a book signing.

When: Friday, September 15, 2017 from 8:30am-1:00pm Where: The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

150 Slayton Avenue, Danville, VA 24540 Cost: $20.00 For registration information call: 434.799.0456 Ext 3134

or email cgore@dpcs.org

Be a tourist in your own town.

Often times people only explore attractions on trips, but you may be surprised what cool things are in your own backyard.

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time, Danville Mayor Sherman Saunders, and Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, Coy Harville, proclaimed Suicide Prevention Week. They discussed suicide being a local epidemic. It was the time to break the taboo around talking about suicide, to promote education, awareness, and support. SEAS has been one of those avenues to help achieve that mission. “ The mission of SEAS is to promote suicide prevention awareness and education in our community through the understanding that prevention and knowledge are the essential keys to saving lives to those at risk of death by suicide.

Depression is a leading contributor to suicide. McCoy says, “Knowing the signs of depression is the first step to help someone at risk.” Some common signs of depression may include, but are not limited to: • Low self-esteem • Anger management problems • Irritability • Risk-taking behaviors • Misusing or abusing substances • Threatening suicide or homicide • Significant changes in appetite or weight • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt • Changes in sleeping habits, fatigue, or loss of energy “Once these signs have been identified, it is important to ask the person if he/she is having thoughts of suicide, has a suicide plan, and feels that he/she has no resources. If the answer is YES to any of those questions it is then vital to develop a temporary safety plan which includes removing possible means, linking the person to his/ her support system, and connecting him/her to a mental health professional,” McCoy says.

For those interested in joining SEAS, the coalition hosts many community event trainings, conferences, and panels. For more information, email SEAS at seascoalition@hotmail.com.

For immediate help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.8255 (TALK) or dial 911.

Try prepping your meals or picking out your clothes for the work week. You’ll save some time in the mornings and have a sense of control about the week ahead.

Work some omega-3 fatty acids into your diet–they are linked to decreased rates of depression and schizophrenia among their many benefits.

Fish oil supplements work, but eating your omega-3s in foods like wild salmon, flaxseeds or walnuts also helps build healthy gut bacteria.

Practice forgiveness - even if it’s just forgiving that person who cut you off during your commute.

People who forgive have better mental health and report being more satisfied with their lives.

“What appear to be calamities are often the sources of fortune.”

- Disraeli Try to find the silver lining in something kind of cruddy that happened recently.

Deanna Carter

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Lorrie Eanes-Brooks is the Field Ambassador for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in our area as well as the Co-Chair for this year’s Out of the Darkness Walk which will be held on November 4 in Ballou Park. She is also a suicide attempt survivor. Eanes-Brooks says, “My first attempt was in high school and my second was when I was in my early 20’s. I am very happy to still be here, and I believe that sharing my story may empower others to reach out for help and know that they are not alone.”

Many people try to hide their pain due to the stigma sometimes associated with mental illness, but Eanes-Brooks offers this analogy , ”If you were having a heart attack would you hesitate to call 911? Would you be embarrassed about your eating habits or worry about what others may think? No, you would dial 911 and get the help you need. The same should be true for mental health.

We were made to protect ourselves. If the brain is telling a person to harm themselves, then there is something not operating properly and assistance is needed. I share my story in hopes of making people aware they are not alone and it is OK to ask for help.”

AFSP is an organization that raises awareness, funds for scientific research, and provides resources and aid to those affected by suicide.

“We raise money to carry out the trainings, materials, and resources locally with our annual Out of the Darkness walk,” Eanes-Brooks says. The Virginia chapter of AFSP was awarded Chapter of the Year for 2016. “In our area, we have been able to provide several families with resources and information to assist them. The resource that seems most helpful is the Survivor Outreach Program which pairs a family member who has experienced a loss with a peer who has a similar experience. We have conducted eight events including trainings to help empower people to reach out to others and know the steps to take when a person is contemplating suicide all free of charge. These events have reached over 200 people since the first of this year.”

Feeling stressed? Smile. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but smiling can help to lower your heart rate and calm you down.

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There are many risk factors for suicide. Some may not be easy to detect which makes education that more valuable. “Most people who take their lives do exhibit warning signs. There is a change in the way they talk, their behaviors and/or their mood. There are several risk factors that come into play including a mental health condition, stress, and a family history. Most occur when there is a convergence of risk factors that create a sense of being overwhelmed or in extreme pain,” Eanes-Brooks says.

Eanes-Brooks emphasizes there is no “one-size fits all” treatment for individuals at risk. “Each person is unique and a professional assessment would determine what would work for that individual.

Treatments can include a type of therapy, medication, or a combination of both.”

There are steps to take for families, friends, and colleagues who suspect they know someone at risk of suicide. “ If someone fears that a loved one is contemplating suicide — ask the question in private. ‘Are you considering suicide?’ Listen to his/her answers. Let him/her know his/her life is important to you. There are trainings available that are available in this area. ‘Talk Saves Lives’, SafeTALK and ASIST. The Lifeline is an excellent resource as well. The number is 1.800.273.8255 or you can text 741-741. This line can assist you with talking to a loved one as well as if you are struggling and need help,” Eanes-Brooks says.

Eanes-Brooks is the definition of a success story.

She’s open about her struggles and dedicated to helping create many more success stories. She concludes with this valuable advice, “If you need help, please don’t hesitate to ask for it. If you think someone else needs help, please reach out. You may be the only person that does.”

For more information about AFSP, visit www.afsp.org.

If you would like to join the Out of the Darkness Walk to help raise awareness and funds, visit facebook.com/Danvillewalk or got to www.afsp.org and search for the walk closest to you.

Send a thank you note - not for a material item, but to let someone know why you appreciate them. Written expressions of gratitude are linked to increased happiness.

Do something with friends and family - have a cookout, go to a park, or play a game.

People are 12 times more likely to feel happy on days that they spend 6-7 hours with friends or family.

Pam Meadows

Take 30 minutes to go for a walk in nature - it could be a stroll through a park, or a hike in the woods. Research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression and boost well-being.

Make sure to enjoy 15 minutes of sunshine, and apply sunscreen. Sunlight synthesizes Vitamin D, which experts believe is a mood elevator.

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.�

-Albert Einstein Try something outside of your comfort zone to make room for adventure and excitement in your life.

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by Erin Thackston

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photo by Alan Dalton Photography

Phillip Alan Wright was smart. He finished Chatham High School last year as an honor graduate and graduate of merit. He was accepted at both of his top choice colleges, Florida State and HampdenSydney. After breaking his arm at the end of his senior year baseball season, Phillip decided to instead attend Danville Community College.

There he met new friends, helped others with their studies, and was regarded as an inquisitive and polite student.

Phillip was athletic. He played basketball, golf, and was a standout baseball player. He was a four-year starter on Chatham High School’s varsity baseball team, in multiple defensive positions, most notably as an all-conference pitcher. Phillip was the pitcher for Post Legion 325 team, which won the state championship in 2016, and was pitcher for the DCC Knights baseball team.

Phillip was popular. Known to many as Flip, he loved to have fun. He was friendly, handsome, well-dressed, polite, and loved to drive his friends around in his sweet red Mustang. He was outgoing, had a lot of close friends, and was a great friend to others.

Phillip was a Christian. He was a member of Mount Hermon Baptist Church, where he participated in four mission trips, was involved with the youth

group, and was even the guest preacher on Youth Sunday. He read his Bible often and shared his faith with others.

Phillip had what most people would consider to be a wonderful life. On February 21, three days shy of his 19th birthday, he ended it.

Phillip’s suicide has left many people shocked, devastated, and baffled by questions that seem to have no answers. To bring awareness to Phillip’s condition, as well as to help bring peace to those who knew and loved Phillip, we feel it is important to communicate what Phillip’s depression was and what it was not.

Phillip’s depression was known by his family.

Phillip communicated his feelings of depression to his parents, who helped him receive needed treatment. In the three years prior to his death, Phillip received professional treatment, including individual and family counseling, and was hospitalized on two occasions.

Depression doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone at any time, without regard to financial status, ethnicity, education, or religion. In Phillip’s case, it did not discriminate according to physical appearance, popularity, friendliness, intellectual Continued to Page 32

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Phillip’s brother and mother, Andrew Coles and Emily Wright photo by Mariah Blankenship Springs

and academic ability, personality type, nor athletic ability. Anyone, including a young person with a seemingly great life, can be affected by depression.

around Phillip, and he knew it. When it comes to the love both given and received in Phillip’s life, his family has no regrets. Unfortunately, all the love in the world was not a cure for Phillip’s depression.

Depression is deceptive. A person affected by depression can appear one way on the outside and feel completely different inside. As with Phillip, it is not always possible to look at a person who appears healthy and happy on the exterior and know that they are hurting deeply on the inside.

Since Phillip’s death, our family has gained a new perspective, and would like to offer the following suggestions on how to respectfully treat families following a suicide. Please don’t make assumptions about the deceased person’s condition and death. Do not spread rumors or gossip. Do not diminish the deceased person’s illness, marginalize their problems, or stereotype their situation. Don’t judge their actions. Instead, do allow the family time to grieve. Do allow the family to announce facts as they arise and wish to do so. Do allow the family privacy. Allow the family to tell their story, if they wish, so that it is told truthfully, accurately, and when they are ready.

We suggest giving those who have died by suicide the same respect and dignity that you would someone who has died from other causes.

No one is to blame. There was not one person nor event nor even string of events that caused Phillip’s depression and suicide. No one is at fault.

Nothing is to blame. Phillip’s depression was a multifaceted, complex, and serious illness with no known cure. Likewise, Phillip could not “snap out” of his depression any more than he could have overcome another serious medical illness through sheer willpower alone.

Phillip’s depression and suicide was not for lack of love or attention.

Phillip was immensely loved and well cared for by his parents, Ben and Emily, as much as a person could possibly be loved. He had the love and support of his brothers, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and he loved them right back. As far as his grandparents were concerned, the sun rose, set, and revolved

Phillip Wright photo by Alan Dalton Photography

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Phillip’s family would like to thank the community for loving us in the wake of this tragedy. We have been overwhelmed by the immeasurable acts of kindness, generous gifts, steadfast love, and unwavering support that have been showered upon us. We hope that Phillip’s story will continue to be told with truth and compassion and that his memory will live on. We hope that somewhere in this tragic loss, other lives will be touched, healed, and forever changed for the better.

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by Bevin Lovelace, LPC photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

Piedmont Access to Health Services takes pride in providing quality healthcare to the population in the piedmont and surrounding areas. One aspect of treatment that many might not be aware of is Behavioral Health services offered at PATHS. PATHS’ Adult Behavioral Health is different from traditional behavioral health in that it is short-term and solution focused. Behavioral Health Consultants (licensed mental health providers) work on the primary care team, alongside the Primary Care Provider (PCP). Thus, Behavioral Health Consultants help address the full spectrum of problems the patient brings to their PCP. With this model, there is one treatment plan, and a shared medical record targeting the patient’s needs. Integrated behavioral health creates a “one-stop-shop” atmosphere where stigma for mental illness is significantly reduced and there is more help for managing chronic disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or COPD. Behavioral Health Consultants are skilled in helping to treat, not only mental illness, but also aspects of chronic disease such as thoughts and behaviors that lead to better health outcomes, ensuring proper social support, and motivating patients to change unhealthy behaviors.

Piedmont Access to Health Services also offers Pediatric Behavioral Health services; serving children, adolescents, and young adults. Much like behavioral health services offered to adults, Pediatric Behavioral Health also helps to address a full spectrum of issues while combining the medical care from the Pediatrician along with the mental and behavioral health care from the Behavioral Health Consultant into one treatment plan. However, PATHS BHC’s do provide services to those who do not see our Pediatricians in order to deliver much needed mental and behavioral healthcare for children and teens in

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our community. PATHS Pediatric Behavioral Health utilizes traditional therapy approaches to assist patients with managing mental and behavioral health symptoms as well as symptoms of chronic disease. For pediatric patients above age 12, an eclectic blend of person-centered talk therapy models and various expressive and therapeutic activities are used to help teens work through stressors including but not limited to bullying, anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, trauma, gender issues and family discord.

Play therapy, which is a structured, theoretically based approach, is utilized at PATHS for children between the ages of 3 to 12. Children communicate through play and utilize toys as their language. The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.” Research supports the effectiveness of play therapy with children experiencing a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioral, and learning problems, including: children whose problems are related to life stressors, such as divorce, death, relocation, hospitalization, chronic illness, assimilate stressful experiences, physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, and natural disasters (Bratton, Ray, Rhine, & Jones, 2005; LeBlanc & Ritchie, 2001; Lin & Bratton, 2015; Ray, Armstrong, Balkin, & Jayne, 2015; Reddy, Files-Hall, & Schaefer, 2005).

Play therapy assists children in developing new and creative solutions to problems they may be experiencing.

Truly, the integrated health model at PATHS is an asset to the community!

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We’re growing - limited classes and events this month!

Weekly in MAy

Gentle yoga with lorrie laming

Mondays 5:30 - Begin your week with a gentle yoga practice designed to relax and restore.

Tai Chi with Wynona Witcher Tuesdays 10:00 - $10 per person

Weekly classes subject to change please contact us for updated information.

MAy

May - Focus on Photography exhibit:

Come view the work of talented local photographers, including Jim Funderburk, Matt Bell, John Ranson, and Gail Macleod.

Chatham First

Thursday, May 4, 7:00 pm

Come and be a part of this group, making such a difference in our community!

Finding Our Roots

Saturday, May 6, 12:00- 4:00 - Free Admission!

keynote speaker- lynn Rainville. One-on-one genealogy consultations, and enter to win an ancestry test!

Speaker Series - Focus on Photography with Donna Wesley Spencer New! Sunday, May 21, 2:00 pm

Donna is Director of Perspective Fine Art Photography, in Chicago, il. The gallery specializes in Fine Art Photography.

Ms. Spencer will discuss what makes photography “art”, and share some images from her gallery. Admission $5.

Refreshments will be provided.

Featured Artist

Gail Macleod

My greatest inspiration comes from paintings by Van Gogh, Sisley, Wyeth and Bruegel. Perhaps studying paintings is unusual for a photographer, but i enjoy learning about their composition, colors, intent and place in history. These instruct my photography in creating a sense of wonder or telling a story. The soft character of many of my images are drawn from these painters. i will continue to enjoy capturing the beauty that surrounds me, but keep a watchful eye as i play with the creativity that the tools of the 21st century bring to photography.

24 Reid Street Chatham, VA 434.203.8062 reidstreetgallery.com FB Reid Street Gallery

Follow us on Facebook and check out our website for more events and information…..www.ReidStreetGallery.com

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by Paulette Dean Executive Director Danville Humane Society

This friendly ferret came to us from his owners. If you want a smart, outgoing companion, then Jack may be the one!

colleague in the state told me years ago about being raised near dairy farms.

She told me that calves are almost immediately separated from the mother cows so the mothers would provide more milk for humans.

She said it broke her heart to see the mother cows try to get to the barns when they heard the calves mooing for them.

I am a vegetarian, not a vegan, but so help me, I think of her story every time I see dairy products; I have greatly reduced my intake of them.

Perhaps you have seen the video on social media about the cow that was rescued from a bad situation and sent to a sanctuary.

The rescuers were not told that she had a calf, but they knew something was troubling the mama cow. When they found out, they went back to the farm and persuaded the owner to let them remove her calf, who had become so distraught and weakened by lack of food, he kept collapsing. When the trailer approached the sanctuary, the mama cow immediately recognized her calf’s cries long before she could see him.

Such is the nurturing nature of most mothers. The very word “mother” brings to mind safety, warmth, care, and love. If fact, all if bad mothers ever outnumber good mothers in this world, heaven help us.

Mother hens can recognize the peeps of their chicks, even in large flocks. Goat mothers make sure their babies play with other goats. Even some insects raise their young! The stories of wonderful animal mothers go on and on and on.

There is a reason our planet is called Mother Earth. Happy Mother’s Day to each mother who reads this. Thank you for making the world better. SM

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by Lee Vogler photo by Jameel Austin

Home. Webster’s defines home as “a place of origin”, or “one’s place of residence”. Though, we know the word home means much more than that. It is where one feels most comfortable and at peace. It is where they long to be when they are somewhere else. It is, as the old saying goes, where the heart is.

For Jameel Austin, Danville wasn’t always home.

The New Jersey native moved to the river city when he was in junior high school. “I vowed to move back to Jersey once I graduated,” Austin said. “I did end up going back to Jersey, but things had changed. I had changed. It just wasn’t home anymore. Danville was home.”

Today, Austin is a photographer and business owner. His photography business is Alternative Minds Photography. “We specialize in high school seniors, headshots, and product photography,” Austin says. “We also do fashion photography and hold family mini-sessions in the spring and fall seasons.” This year, the company started offering video services and holding educational workshops, as well. “Our ‘Getting Started’ workshop is geared towards the photography newbie and is being held June 10,” he said. When he’s not running Alternative Minds, Austin works at Goodyear Tire and Rubber.

Beyond his work duties, Austin stays involved in many community activities. “I’m a proud Middle Border Forward fellow,” Austin states.

Middle Border Forward, also known as MBF, is

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a non-profit organization with the mission to “cultivate inclusive leadership, inspire community engagement, and create equitable access to opportunities.” Austin continues, “I’ve also recently signed up to volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club, in addition to serving on the Danville Center Stage board, and I write and perform spoken word.”

Austin’s involvement in the community makes the future development of Danville a personal issue for him. “The potential for greatness is certainly present and we, the people, possess a resilience that is unmatched,” he says. “Danville is a ‘mill town without a mill’ so there’s the question of what it will be known for now? I’m excited and honored to be able to help in finding the answer to that question. I choose Danville because where others may see problems, I see possibilities.”

Growth and development of a city doesn’t come from one person alone. It takes a community effort. Austin recognizes that. “I see more community involvement. I see the culture flourishing and being embraced by not only city residents, but visitors and tourists as well. I see our college graduates returning home and finding work in their fields of study. I see our youth being affected positively by the arts and culture our city has to offer. This city is on the rise and I love it!” And with people like Jameel Austin working to make a difference, Danville will continue to rise.

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Not So Common – Common Sense!

How do you keep your head when it seems like all around you are losing theirs? – A perspective on leading in difficult times.

by Stan Jones, Superintendent of Danville Public Schools s you are well aware, the challenges of working in public education are not becoming any easier. In fact, I am first to acknowledge that there is always a desire to improve our work and optimize our success. Our staff, especially our teachers, continue to give more and more time toward the demands placed upon them in spite of added pressure and unrelenting negative public rhetoric.

I am hopeful that the collective efforts of our staff as demonstrated through our commitment toward continuous improvement and intentionality in our goals, planning, system self-monitoring, and measures of accountability related to performance will ultimately demonstrate student achievement gains.

As indicated in my last article, there is a direct correlation between our progress and funding. Moreover, Danville Public Schools has historically been a high performing public school system with our decline in overall performance occurring within the last five years in alignment with a decline in funding. Stated differently, is it realistic to expect us to improve in an era of diminishing resources and increasing demands without the appropriate investment?

Fortunately, many of our programs and investments have continued to deliver noteworthy returns despite these challenges. Our academic and programmatic “bright spots” are worthy of mentioning. Danville Public Schools continues to demonstrate excellence in many not so well known bright spots including: • A Dental Hygiene Program at GWHS with Danville Community College (DCC) • A Criminal Justice Program at GWHS with DCC • Emergency Medical Technician Program with DCC • The only International Baccalaureate Program in the region • Precision Machining/Advanced Manufacturing Program (Fall 2017) • Full Day Preschool Program (including art and music education) • Algebra II Scores Exceed State Average (DPS 93, State 89) Other bright spots include the George Washington High School Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. Both groups performed at the District Six State event held in March and were rated superior by each, which is the top honor for performing concert bands. This is the third consecutive year that the symphonic band has received this honor and the 27th​​​​​​​​​year that the wind ensemble has been awarded this honor.

The George Washington High School Robotics Team continues to make a name as it competes in local, regional and state competitions.

Recently, the team competed at the Central Virginia event in Glen Allen. GWHS’s Team Talon finished the qualifying round ranked 4th out of 37 teams with an 8-3-1 record and is now qualified for the World Championship Event in St. Louis this summer.

top high school for low-income students and one of America’s most challenging high schools. Additionally, Galileo is one of the best high schools in the country for financial literacy.

Finally, the graduation rate for Danville Public Schools has increased by 7 percentage points since 2013-2014 from 75% in 2013-2014 to its present level of 81%. While this level of improvement is remarkable, it is just the beginning of the gains that will be made if there is a sustainable investment locally in our schools.

According to Building a Grad Nation Report, a Data Brief co-authored

by Civic Enterprises and the Everyone Graduates Center at the Johns Hopkins University School of Education, the nation’s on-time high school graduation rate hit a record high of 82.3 percent for the Class of 2014. With your continued support we can meet and exceed the national average. Ultimately, the best economic stimulus package for our community is increasing high school graduation.

A STRONG EDUCATION BUILDS A STRONGER COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Wilkins & CO. supports education Danville Office • 428 Piney Forest Rd. • 434.797.4007 Chatham Office • 12413 US HWY 29 • 434.432.3009 Property Management • 434.797.4009 www.WilkinsAndCo.com

Galileo High School continues to gain honors as one of the top 500 high schools in the nation by two national news sources as both a www.showcasemagazine.com

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This is what commitment looks like...

Centra Danville Medical Center is now open!

Healthcare is more accessible and convenient than ever before. With a full range of health services and medical and surgical specialties, we are committed to you – our friends and neighbors – and are eager to show you the next level in providing Excellent Care for Life.

Mammography expertise looks like this

PRIMARY & URGENT CARE

Two of Centra Medical Group’s Danville practices* – PrimeCare main clinic on 130 Enterprise Drive and Dominion on 110 Exchange Street – have relocated to the Danville Medical Center and come together to form a single primary and urgent care practice, Centra Medical Group – Danville. Providers include:

“I want allJalandhara, womenMD have a great experience.

Gregory Alba,to DOmake sureVinit Pradeep Pradhan, MD James Alig, PA Rachel McGee, DO Laurie Taylor, FNP Mammograms help find cancer early and give them the Susan Dhivianathan, MD James Milam, MD Charlotte Williams, NP bestIbarra, chance Maria MD for a longer and healthier life.”

Kendrick, *Our PrimeCare east clinic at 404 Airport Road will remainChasity at its current location.

RT

Mammography Technician

MEDICAL & SURGICAL SPECIALTIES

Centra specialists can see patients and provide consultations at the new medical center.

With Centra Danville Medical Center, healthcare is more accessible and Specialties include:

convenient than ever before.

CARDIOLOGY

MAMMOGRAPHY

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Brent Carothers, MD

Wilkes, PT, DPT We are committed to you –PLASTIC our friends and neighbors –Kurtise and are eager to SURGERY Stephen Davis, MD Varsha Jalandhara, PT, DPT Timothy Silvester, MD Care for Life. show you the next level in providing Excellent

Danville Medical Center

Urgent Care Hours Open seven days a week 8 am – 8 pm

Primary Care Hours Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Danville Center PhysicalMedical Therapy Hours Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5:30 pm Friday, 8 amCare – 12:30 pm Urgent Open seven days a week 8 am – 8 pm

ToPrimary learn more about Care our services, call Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm 434.857.3600

Physical Therapy or visit

Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5:30 pm CentraHealth.com Friday, 8 am – 12:30 pm

Matthew Huffman, MD

UROLOGY SPORTS MEDICINE Matthew Our fullSackett, range MD of medical and surgical specialties include: Dean Clower, MD Andrew Pieleck, DO Peter O’Brien, MD

Cardiology Mammography David Truitte, MD Physical Therapy Evan Ownby, MD

Michael Valentine, MD

Plastic Surgery Primary Care Sports Medicine

Urgent Care Urology

To learn more about our services, visit CentraHealth.com

Centra Danville Medical Center | 414 Park Avenue | Danville | 434.857.3600 414 Park Avenue | Danville