2021
Community Strong
PEOPLE OF THE YEAR Presented by
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CONTENTS
Showcase Magazine
DECEMBER 2021
THE COM M UNITY STRONG ISSUE @showcaseDVA
Showcase Magazine
showcasemagazineva @ info@showcasemagazine.com
FEATURES Holiday Volunteering 9
Community Strong Recognizing those who volunteer their time and expertise to better the community.
PG.
12
2021 Showcase Magazine
Community Strong People of the Year
Chenise Blackwell 12 Constance Covington 14 Robert David 16 Sherry Smith 20
ALSO INSIDE Editor’s Letter A Place to Call Home
Games
From the Kitchen of
Big Bear’s Wife Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs 26
Crossword & Wordsearch 22
Paws for a Cause
Confessions of a 30 Something
Snoopy
Heart of a Champion
25
29
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PG.
9
Holiday Volunteering | www.showcasemagazine.com
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showcase
EDITOR’S LETTER
A Place to Call Home This issue of Showcase marks the sixth year of the Showcase Magazine Community Strong People of the Year Awards. We started this recognition by highlighting individuals in the area who display the strength it takes to build and maintain a strong community. Coretta Scott King said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” We have some impressive forces working towards greatness in our area. Showcase is proud to team with URW Community Federal Credit Union again to present the Community Strong People of the Year. URW has an impressive resume of community involvement through the years. It’s an organization that truly understands the importance of being involved. We define community involvement as “engaging in dialogue and collaboration with community members.” But that doesn’t scratch the surface of the many ways getting involved can strengthen community bonds and enrich personal growth. We can learn much from getting active in the community. An important thread in all communities is diversity. It’s this difference that can be monumental in building a healthy community and growing personally. We can all learn something from each other. We must learn to listen to each other and accept our differences. And for positive change to occur, we must participate. It takes effort and hard work to build a better tomorrow. We hope you enjoy getting to know a little about our 2021 Showcase Magazine Community Strong People of the Year. These recipients have dedicated time, energy, and ideas to the evolution of Danville into a better place to work, live, and play. Individual awards are collaborative efforts. Our community is loaded with individuals coming together to share their time, efforts, and ideas to build an unstoppable team. Showcase is grateful to everyone who strives to make our community a place to call home. Have a Happy Holiday and enjoy the issue.
DECEMBER 2021
CEO Andrew Scott Brooks scott@showcasemagazine.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Paul Seiple | paul@showcasemagazine.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Demont | demontdesign@verizon.net FINANCE MANAGER Cindy Astin | cindy@showcasemagazine.com ADVERTISING Lee Vogler | Director of Sales and Marketing lee@showcasemagazine.com | 434.548.5335 Kenny Thornton Jr | Account Executive kenny@showcasemagazine.com CUSTOMER SERVICE Subscribe to Home Delivery for $24 per year 753 Main Street #3, Danville, VA 24541 Phone 434.709.7349 info@showcasemagazine.com www.showcasemagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Angie Barrett | Paulette Dean Sam Jackson | Lee Vogler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Angie Barrett | Lee Vogler Laura Mae Photography COVER Robert David photo by Laura Mae Photography
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FEATURE HOLIDAY VOLUNTEERING
Holiday Volunteering BY SAM JACKSON
T
he holiday season is upon us, and for many area residents, the spirit of giving that permeates this time of year spreads beyond our homes and families and into the community at large. The needs of local nonprofits and charitable organizations during the Christmas season are great, and this year is no exception. Whether your contribution is monetary, or if you choose to give of your time to serve others, there is always somewhere you can help. Though this is the season of giving, the need never changes, according to local nonprofit officials.
services. More than half had experienced an increase in needs for their services because of COVID-19. On the flip side, almost 70 percent of the organizations surveyed either had seen or expected budgetary limitations related to the strains caused by the pandemic to the economy. A vast majority of nonprofits, around 65 percent, experienced staff and volunteer limitations and absences, the survey said. In the cases of organizations that rely heavily on volunteerism for all their services, it’s created significant challenges. Continued to Page 10
“I think people are more volunteer and service-minded during the holiday season because they tend to give thanks,” during the holiday season, said Evelyn Riley, executive director of the Dan River Nonprofit Network. “I think a lot of the agencies have those ongoing needs throughout the year, so it doesn’t necessarily spike during the holidays.” Needs have spiked in recent years, though, according to information compiled by Riley and the Dan River Nonprofit Network. According to a release, 89 percent of respondents to a survey conducted by the network showed a significant impact on programs, services, or general operations by the COVID-19 pandemic. The remaining 11 percent indicated a medium level of impact with minor disruptions, the survey added. In addition, 52 percent said a disruption of supplies or services provided by partners had impacted that their ability to provide www.showcasemagazine.com
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FEATURE HOLIDAY VOLUNTEERING
Continued from Page 9
Lt. Shawnte Hodges of the Danville Salvation Army said the impact of the pandemic has lessened this holiday season, meaning the organization has recruited more workers to man the famous Red Kettles for money donations. “This year, we haven’t heard anything,” about COVID limiting the number of volunteers for the kettle drive, she said. “I think that has a lot to do with vaccine. We’ve actually had a lot more volunteers sign up to ring.” Although the Red Kettles are the most visible and recognizable source of the Salvation Army’s funding, Hodges emphasized that the Salvation Army has many more ways to serve. “We’re not here just to feed you. We have so much else to give,” she said. The Salvation Army in Danville also runs a weekly feeding program, a food pantry, clothing drive, provides rental and utility help, you and women’s ministry programs, as well as its Family Store, on Riverside drive. The store sells merchandise that comes from donations, but Hodges said much of the store’s items haven’t hit the sales floor yet, because there aren’t enough staff to sort it. “We’re grateful for all these donations, but getting it all out there to get it sold is a task, because we don’t have the manpower,” she said, noting that the store has only three employees. “We can’t seem to keep people in there, because it’s a lot of work, honestly.” Hodges added that the Salvation Army needs more volunteers to help with the food pantry and feeding program, which provides hearty meals for the needy or homeless. “We want to give them a meal they can sit down and have on a Sunday morning,” she said. “That’s something we take pride in here.” In some cases, the Salvation Army can hire some clients from the feeding program during the holidays. “A lot of bell ringers come through the feeding program,” she said. “We’ve been able to provide them with jobs, even if they’re seasonal.” Riley stressed that the need for volunteers and donors is
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not seasonal, however, even if this season often sees a spike in it. “A lot of the organizations that we work with have a consistent need,” she said. The nonprofit network includes dozens of member organizations, coordinating hundreds of volunteer hours and donations. Riley added that the cold weather also increases the needs in the area. “That’s not really holiday related, but that is something you happen to see during the holiday season,” she said. When it comes to monetary donations, Riley reminded potential givers that while donating to a particular program, such as a Christmas giving ministry, is helpful and benefits that particular program, giving what nonprofits call “unrestricted funding” might be more beneficial. “We’ve got a lot of organizations and foundations that understand the value of direct service, but if you’re giving them an unrestricted donation, the organization might be able to use it to buy other goods, or put donations to use in the areas where there is the greatest need,” she said. “They might not realize that if they write (a check donation) as an unrestricted gift, it can go farther,” she added. There are many ways you can make a difference this season. The nonprofit network’s volunteer portal, serve365.com, can put volunteers in touch with needy organizations and match them with a volunteer’s preferred skills. One of the keys, however, is to be aware of where you might be needed most, even if it’s not necessarily your first choice. Also, Riley said, the nonprofit network emphasizes the need for what Riley called “ongoing volunteerism.” “We have a bunch of ways people can get involved,” Riley said. To learn more about how you can lend a hand, visit Serve365.com, or call (434) 285-2100.
SPONSORED CONTENT THE ARC OF SOUTHSIDE
We’ve Got Some Seats to Fill
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he Arc of Southside is seeking volunteer leaders to join its dynamic Board of Directors. Board members are actively involved in organizational governance, and are expected to attend bi-monthly board meetings, participate in at least one board committee, make a personal financial contribution, participate in fundraising activities, and manage donor or community partner relationships.
Who We Are: The Arc of Southside is a local chapter of The Arc of Virginia and The Arc of the US, founded in 1954 to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
and person-centered residential, recreational, vocational, and transitional services. If you want to make a difference in your community and you believe that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities should and can be afforded the same opportunities to live, work, and play in their community, The Arc of Southside is for you. The Nominating Committee is currently accepting applications. Those interested in board service can complete an application at: https://hipaa.jotform.com/213084915720049
The Arc of Southside has changed dramatically over the past several years, shifting from a traditional facility-based model to an inclusive community-based model of support, currently serving over 100 adults and children in Danville, VA and the surrounding area. Driven by a passion to meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities striving for a fully inclusive life in the community, The Arc of Southside provides fully inclusive
For More Information on The Arc of Southside call 434.836.3272. www.showcasemagazine.com
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COMMUNITY STRONG PEOPLE OF THE YEAR 2020 CHENISE BLACKWELL
Chenise Blackwell Community Strong
PERSON OF THE YEAR 2021 PHOTO BY LEE VOGLER
I
n 2019, Chenise Blackwell was recognized by Sovah Health as a Mercy Award winner. The Mercy Award is given to an employee who “proudly touches the lives of others and best represents the spirit and values on which the company was founded.” Blackwell serves as the patient advocate at Sovah Health Danville. She is married and has two daughters and one stepdaughter and a stepson. She adds, “I have five grandchildren and another one due in December. All boys and I absolutely love being called ‘Nana.’” Blackwell actively serves in her church and volunteers her free time to help those in need in our community. Showcase met up with Blackwell to learn what makes her want to be an active member of the community. Showcase Magazine: How do you define community involvement? Chenise Blackwell: Being involved in various activities, projects, and groups in the community by volunteering time and resources to benefit others. SM: Who are your real-life heroes and why? CB: The people I work with every day a Sovah Health Danville, especially this last year and a half. They, to include everyone in all departments, give so much of themselves, working countless hours to care for our patients especially through the pandemic. I feel everyone, at some point in time, in whatever role they play, witnessed and endured events they will forever remember yet they still smile and continue pushing forward. To me, they all truly are Healthcare Heroes. SM: What is it about Danville that makes it special to you?
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CB: The people. I love meeting and getting to know people. SM: What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you? CB: It was given to me by my mother. She told me to let your heart be your guide because what is on the inside is what people will see on the outside. SM: Do you have a favorite quote, and if so, what is it? CB: Treat others like you want to be treated. SM: How do you recharge? What do you like to do outside of work and volunteerism? CB: I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, bowling, taking walks, and listening to music. SM: What is your idea of happiness? CB: Happiness is the peace I have within me and the joy I feel inside when I can do something to help someone else. SM: What are you most looking forward to in 2022? CB: Just embracing a new year with all the possibilities that come with it. I am looking forward to seeing more smiles and less sadness. I am looking forward to a new and better normal that will bring peace and joy back to our lives. SM: What are your visions for the future of Danville? CB: I am excited about the growth of Danville. The casino coming, new restaurants opening. I personally would love to see a bowling alley become a part of the growth as it would provide fun for the entire family.
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COMMUNITY STRONG PEOPLE OF THE YEAR 2020 CONSTANCE COVINGTON
Constance Covington Community Strong
PERSON OF THE YEAR 2021 PHOTO BY LEE VOGLER
C
onstance Covington grew up in Danville and has been part of the community all her life. She has worked with one area of the community, Cardinal Village, for the past fourteen years plus. Covington says, “God has blessed me with this opportunity to have housing here. Based on what I saw within my community, I decided I wanted implement things I had been taught by my parents.” Covington got residents, especially her children, involved by having tea parties. “Tea parties is what pull them in. If you can imagine this lady walking around in her best gown and jewelry going door-to-door to collect kids so that we could all go and sit down and learn about manners and etiquette,” she added. To date, Covington has been a part of about 140 programs a year. “We really didn’t have a budget, but God always found a way for us to get things done. I thank God for this journey.” Covington took a moment to talk to Showcase about why being a key figure in her community is important. Showcase Magazine: How do you define community involvement? Constance Covington: It starts with communication. You cannot be afraid to talk about the things you believe in. I have some wonderful community partners who take care of me. They call me up just to ask how they can help. Community involvement is very important if you want to get what you’re going after. There are people within our city who are being such a blessing to those around them. SM: How do you balance work, life, and community? CC: It’s a lot of different things going on all at once.
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How can you balance that? I’ve had a problem with that because I always put myself last. But I’ve learned to have people around me who keep me in check. They make sure I’m taking care of myself so I can continue to take care of them. SM: What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given to you? CC: To do whatever it is I have to do within me but do it with all my heart. Don’t half-step. Be genuine. Be a person who can be trusted and to do what God would want me to do in that situation. SM: What is it about Danville that makes it special to you? CC: I love my city. This is my home, and I will probably never leave. It’s a great place to raise a family. It’s also a great place to be when you get into your senior years. SM: Who are your real-life heroes and why? CC: I have some very important people in my life who have encouraged me and guide my footsteps. My pastor Doyle Thomas, my last pastor, Emmett Young, and Ruby Archie. These individuals inspired me to travel the path I’m on. SM: How do you recharge? What do you like to do outside of work and volunteerism? CC: I don’t have a lot of free time, but I love to paint. I paint umbrellas. That’s my therapy and wind-down time. SM: What are you most looking forward to into 2022? CC: Bigger and better programs. Getting more kids to take part in the programs. Continuing to embrace the diversity of our community. Getting everybody involved.
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COMMUNITY STRONG PEOPLE OF THE YEAR 2020 ROBERT DAVID
Robert David Community Strong
PERSON OF THE YEAR 2021 PHOTO BY LAURA MAE PHOTOGRAPHY
F
or the past 3 and a half years, Robert David has been employed with the city of Danville’s city manager’s office as the Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator. While in this position, he created the award-winning gang prevention and intervention collaborative system, Project Imagine. David is an Air Force veteran with over 25 years of strategic planning and community development experience. He enjoys generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing collaborative strategies, and coaching individuals to success. David earned a Masters in Addiction and Professional Counseling and is currently a PhD candidate in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. He is the author of Stand up and Breathe: 4 Steps to Recover from Failure and Gangs vs Kingdom: Battle for the Next Generation, both of which have been utilized in youth and adult programing related to gang violence, community mobilization, and developing collaborative systems. David also co-authored Bigger than Black and Blue: Candid conversations about race, equity and community collaborations with Chief Scott Booth of the Danville Police Department. In his younger days, David was a professional natural bodybuilder and held many titles, some of which were Mr. Natural Universe and 2-times Mr. USA. He been married for 23 years and has 5 children. Showcase caught up with David to discuss the community. Showcase Magazine: How do you define community involvement? Robert David: I define community involvement as being connected to a group of individuals through
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understanding their expressed needs and strengths while using your personal skills, passion, and influence to assist those individuals to achieve community goals. SM: What inspires you to get involved in the community? RD: My inspiration comes from being raised in a home where my family would help people in the neighborhood. I remember as a youth being instructed to take plates of food to the elderly man down the street to make sure he was eating. I remember my mother doing clothing alterations services for community members and being sensitive to their financial situation. You could say that community involvement it is in my blood. SM: How do you balance life, work, and community involvement? RD: I maintain my balance by not giving attention to irrelevant circumstances. I focus on the things that matter and the things that will yield positive outcomes. I use this philosophy in every area of my life. I’m passionate about empowering others to live their best version of themselves, so I do not have an off/on switch for work and home, but I do manage how much energy I give people and circumstances based on its relevance to the purpose of myself and others. SM: What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you? RD: I have received many words of wisdom in my life but one that has served me well in every aspect of my life comes for Les Brown. When I was a teenager, my father gave me a Les Brown cassette tape (yes, I’m that old). Les stated that “Used to bees don’t make no honey.” It means that you can’t rest on what you have done, keep being creative. Continued to Page 18
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COMMUNITY STRONG PEOPLE OF THE YEAR 2020 ROBERT DAVID
Continued from Page 16
SM: Who are your real-life heroes and why? RD: My heroes are those who sacrifice and persevere to achieve their dreams when everything in their life has said, “No,” they continued to say, “Yes.” SM: What is it about Danville that makes it special to you? RD: Danville is a blank canvas awaiting those who are willing to bring a creative brush of new ideas. I love Danville because it really is the Comeback City. My experience in Danville has been amazing. The city has opened its arms to those who dare to disregard the old negative narrative and embrace a newfound energy.
your current situation. So, tap into your purpose and unleash your greatness. SM: How do you recharge? What do you like to do outside of work and volunteerism? RD: I recharge by exercising, watching movies, and enjoying my family SM: What is your idea of happiness? RD: Happiness to me is being able to live an authentic life. Being able to be your genuine self regardless of the audience and circumstance.
SM: What are you most looking forward to in 2022? RD: I am looking forward to the growth of the city and the increase momentum of collaborative systems.
SM: What are your favorite things to do in Danville? RD: One of my favorite things to do is to go to the movies with my son and friend. I also enjoy “people watching “with a cup of Chis tea at Links. I have also enjoyed the comedy shows at district 319.
SM: Do you have a favorite quote, and if so, what is it? RD: “Unleash Your Inner Bigness.” This means that everyone comes to this Earth with a purpose. That purpose is where greatness resides, and it’s bigger than
SM: What are your visions for the future of Danville? RD: My vision for Danville is that individuals, agencies, and organizations continue and increase collaborative efforts, so as the city grows, it also grows in unity.
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COMMUNITY STRONG PEOPLE OF THE YEAR 2020 SHERRY SMITH
Sherry Smith Community Strong
PERSON OF THE YEAR 2021 PHOTO BY LAURA MAE PHOTOGRAPHY
S
herry Smith was the youngest child and left at home with aging parents. Her other 4 siblings had left home to start families of their own. As Smith parents’ health declined there were many doctor’s appointments. A strict schedule became a necessity. It was the only way she could balance her life to fulfill the needs of both a job and a family. Now, Smith is happily married and has been for 10 years. And over the years, she has found ways to use her free time to volunteer for many events within the community. Showcase sat down with Smith to talk about what makes her strive to better our community. Showcase Magazine: How do you define community involvement? Sherry Smith: Community involvement to me is reaching out to help others. I am passionate about volunteering to help others less fortunate. SM: How do you recharge? What do you like to do outside of work and volunteerism? SS: In my spare time, I like to recharge by going on day trips with my husband. I love the mountains and nature. It delivers peace to my soul. SM: What is your idea of happiness? SS: My idea of happiness is seeing adults and kids of
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all kinds laughing and making memories. It melts my heart knowing that you are where you should be. SM: Who are your real-life heroes and why? SS: Family has taught me whatever I want in life just keep on working towards your dreams. I set my goals, I make my plans and chase my dreams. SM: What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you SS: Someone once told me,“Always be honest, kind, and true to yourself.” SM: Do you have a favorite quote, and if so, what is it? SS: Matthew 17:20. “If ye shall have faith as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible to you.” SM: What are you most looking forward to in 2022? SS: In 2022, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, good health, the end of COVID. SM: What are your visions for the future of Danville? SS: I want major tourism back in the mix with all the great things that are happening soon. Danville is a great place for families and friends to get together for fun fellowship and making great memories that last a lifetime.
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EXTRA GAMES
Games
Crossword Puzzle ACROSS 1 Sport’s official 4 Bridge 8 Worry 12 Estimated time of arrival 13 European monetary unit 14 Made higher 16 Concise 18 Egged on 20 Layers 21 Identical sibling 23 Wing 24 Highest trump in some loo 25 Women’s undergarment 26 Furrow 27 Deer 29 A sedimentary rock 32 Canoe propeller 33 Unite 34 Peewee 38 Creative products 40 Woman’s hair product 41 Acts to impress
42 Vivacity 43 Seafood 44 Difficulty 46 Zero 47 Drift 50 Fairy 51 Headed 52 Grow older 53 Member of an Arizona Indian tribe 55 From Asia 58 Sulky 60 Fence of pales 63 Excuse 64 Leave now! 65 Ball holder 66 Connect 67 Spot 68 Abort DOWN 1 Repose 2 Decorative needle case 3 Eyes, ears, nose (2wds.) 4 Tremor 5 Play on words
6 Circle part 7 False (2 wds.) 8 Apple type 9 On 10 Hotel 11 Litter 15 Restaurant 17 Cliff 19 Digital audio tape 22 Candle element 25 Lay in the sun 26 Lotion brand 27 Lather 28 Tropical edible root 29 Donkey 30 Muslim’s religion 31 Other __ 33 Roman iv 35 Make bright 36 Feeling 37 Guilty or not 39 Bawled 40 Musical treble __ 42 Kind of circular shape 45 TV lawyer Matlock 46 Loch __ monster 47 Been
48 Water (Sp.) 49 Short for fellow 51 Common people 53 Asian humped ox
54 Piece 56 A cozy room (2 wds.) 57 Want
59 Liberal (abbr.) 61 American Cancer Society (abbr.) 62 Lick
Word Search ASSISTANCE
DONATION
COMMUNITY COMPASSION DEDICATED
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KINDNESS
SOCIAL
GENEROUS
LEARNING
TEAMWORK
GIVING
PHILANTHROPY
UNITY VOLUNTEER
Answers on Page 30
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PAWS FOR A CAUSE
Paws for a Cause WRITTEN BY PAULETTE DEAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY
This is the time of year when animal shelters receive donations of food, toys, treats, towels, and all other kinds of supplies. Individuals, clubs, church groups, and other organizations drive up to the shelter and empty their vehicles of the loads that would make Santa’s sleigh tilt! For me, this is truly the “most wonderful time of the year.” People apologize that their gifts seem small. We very quickly assure them that the smallest gifts may be the most memorable. Young children who ask for coins to put in our collection banks have given gifts every bit as heartwarming as the people who give thousands of dollars. All are appreciated. Many people say that they feel sorry for the animals who spend the holidays at the shelter. We believe, though, that for most of them, our shelter is the best place they have ever been. They have food, water, warmth, and soft beds. Their wants are very different from our lists to Santa. I believe that their list of wants would be basic. Animals want to eat food that they can thrive on. This is different for every species. They want the appropriate amount of water. They want to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They want a comfortable bed and the chance to lie without fear. They want gentle hands to take care of them and kind words spoken to them. One really neat thing about animals is that they do not care about
MEET SNOOPY This dachshund guy is about five and is as loving and sweet as can be. He loves belly rubs!
the things that consume so much of a human’s time and attention. Animals want the gift of time from humans. No matter if they share a small apartment or a mansion with their humans, they want to be in the same room with their beloved human companion. Perhaps if we looked at our wants through the eyes of animals, our letters to Santa would be quite different.
We wish for every creature a happier, kinder New Year in 2022. We are grateful for all of the community Santas that fill our cupboards (and hearts).
DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY
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FEATURE BIG BEAR’S WIFE
From the Kitchen of
Big Bear’s Wife Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs WRITTEN BY ANGIE BARRETT OF BIGBEARSWIFE.COM PHOTO BY ANGIE BARRETT
YIELD: 6; PREP TIME: 10M; COOK TIME: 5M; ADDITIONAL TIME: 15M; TOTAL TIME: 30M INGREDIENTS • 12 ounces Green Candy Melts • 6 tablespoons hot chocolate mix powder • 6 tablespoons dehydrated mini marshmallows or regular mini marshmallows • 6 ounces red candy melts YOU’LL ALSO NEED • Large Silicone Mold of half spheres INSTRUCTIONS 1. Melt green candy melts according to package directions. I melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 30 second intervals until melted. 2. Using a spoon, fill each cavity of the mold with some of the melted green chocolate.
3. Use the back of the spoon and spread the chocolate around the center and bottom of the mold. We’re just creating a shell here, so the center does not need to be filled. 4. Make sure that the sides and bottom are coated well. 5. Let the chocolate sit for about 15 minutes for it to harden. 6. Save extra chocolate to glue half circles together later. You may need to carefully reheat this when it’s time to use it. 7. Carefully turn silicone mold over onto a flat surface and pop chocolate out of mold. 8. Each hot chocolate bomb will need two half circles. 9. Melt red candy melts according to package directions. I melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 30 second intervals until melted. 10. Filling a plastic sandwich bag with the melted red candies, cut the tip of the bag and pipe out some red hearts onto a piece of parchment paper. You could also use large red heart sprinkles instead. 11. If you make them with the red candy, set them aside after piping to let them harden. FOR HOT CHOCOLATE BOMB: 1. Fill 1 chocolate 1/2 circle with 1 tablespoon of hot chocolate mix and 1 tablespoon of marshmallows. 2. Top with a hollow chocolate 1/2 circle and use the extra melted left over chocolate and a butter knife to “”glue” the two pieces together. 3. Let sit about 5 minutes to harden. 4. Hot Chocolate Bombs are now ready! To Add green Chocolate Drizzle: 1. Just melt a bit of the green candy melts in the microwave and use a piping bag or a fork to drizzle melted chocolate over Hot Chocolate Bombs. 2. Stick a red candy heart on top before the drizzle hardens. TO USE HOT CHOCOLATE BOMBS: 1. Add 1 hot chocolate bomb to a mug and pour hot milk over it. 2. Stir and enjoy.
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Explore the possibilities at King’s Grant. From cottages and apartments to health and wellness programs to social activities, travel and much more. The choice is yours. Best of all – you get to have fun while we help with the chores. More fun. Less work. Let King’s Grant be the next best place you discover. Independent Living • Assisted Living • Skilled Nursing • Memory Support
350 King’s Way Road | Martinsville, VA 24112 | 276.634.1000 | 800.462.4649
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Hi! I ’ m Laura,
YOUR LOCAL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER! PROVIDING JOY-FILLED, TIMELESS IMAGES.
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CONFESSIONS OF A 30 SOMETHING
Confessions of a 30 Something Heart of a Champion BY LEE VOGLER PHOTO BY LEE VOGLER
Christmas is upon us, and another year is ending. I sincerely hope each of you reading this has had a wonderful year and will enjoy this holiday season. In our family, the most recent milestone was Kingston finishing his first season of tackle football. He turned 7 years old as the season got underway, and technically still had one year of eligibility left in flag football, but the coaches felt he was ready to make the jump to the 7-8-9-year-old league. He started the season as a defensive back, but quickly moved to wide receiver on offense because he had learned all the routes on the route tree. One day at practice, he picked up the ball and threw it back to the coach. His coach asked him to throw it again. After another well-spiraled rope, the coach told him to go behind the center to run the offense as quarterback. I was stunned. My little man has loved football since he was a baby, but I assumed this year would be spent getting used to taking hits and wearing the equipment, since he was one of the youngest players in the league. Now he was the starting QB. Their team, the Devil Dogs, continued to improve each week. I watched nearly all of their practices through the week leading up to the games and became quite invested in
the entire team. To see these young men grow as players and individuals was quite special. When one of them would make a big tackle, I would get just as excited as when my own son would make a big pass or run play. As the playoffs began, the Devil Dogs were the lowest ranked team. Despite this, they beat their first opponent, who had a long-tenured head coach, 16-0. Kingston completed 4 of 5 passes in the game for about 75 yards. He also ran in a two point conversion. Then came the championship. It was a tough, down-in-the-dirt contest, but the Devil Dogs prevailed in double overtime 14-8. Kingston had his nose bloodied and took his fair share of big hits, but he kept going, as did his teammates. They never quit. It was a memorable finish to a fantastic season. It’s one that I know these young men will remember for a long time, as will I.
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