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The Benefits of Theatre Arts
On the Cover Wild Ponies Performing at Brewster Walk
for Children and Youth
See Story Page 24
Photo by Justin Hall See page 20 Brewster Wa lk
Uptown Ma
See page 20
rtinsville See page 14
Contents
{ S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 } S H O W C A S E M AG A Z I N E
FEATURES
12
OUT OF THE DARKNESS Taking the fight to suicide, one step at a time By James Manuel
20 24
SECTIONS
THE BENEFITS OF THEATRE ARTS for Children and Youth
6
9 HE SAID SHE SAID Nostalgia Rules
By Larry Oldham and Dena Hill
10 A BETTER YOU
Take Care of You! by Dave Gluhareff
BREWSTER WALK
ALSO INSIDE
17 2016 RAVE BALLOT 34 MYSTIFIED
28 29 33
AREA EVENTS GUIDE PAWS FOR THE CAUSE By Paulette Dean
by Misty Brooks
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FUN AND GAMES
Crossword, Word Seach, & Sudoku
Woman Down - Take Two
By Erin Thackston
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FROM THE EDITOR
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FRO M T H E E D I TO R For me, the ushering in of a new season is sort of like when you look at your sock drawer and decide it’s time to buy new socks. Sure, the socks have been loyal, they’ve done their job, but after a while the comfort fades, holes start to appear, and you long for that feeling of when you slip on a new pair on for the first time. The only thing to do is to clean out the drawer and start fresh. That’s how I feel about summer. I don’t really care for it. There are a few of us. Anyway, each new season brings new things— events, trips, holidays, you get the idea—but most importantly it brings opportunity for change. In this month’s issue, James Manuel writes about the Out of the Darkness suicide prevention walks and what the local chapter, headed by LeAnne Hardy, is doing to bring awareness to and change the stigma associated with suicide. Erin Thackston introduces her
SHOWCASE – M A G A Z I N E –
daughter to the theatre with help from the Halifax County Little Theatre. The theatre experience creates positive change in children that they will carry with them their entire lives.
SEPTEMBER 2015 STAFF
CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks, scott@showcasemagazine.com President Larry Oldham, larry@showcasemagazine.com Editor Paul Seiple, paul@showcasemagazine.com
Festival lovers in the area are familiar with the annual Rooster Walk Music and Arts Festival that takes place in Martinsville, now the creators are branching out and bringing Brewster Walk to the city. Brewster Walk which brings together craft beer and music aims to give back to the community just as the Rooster Walk does each year.
Graphic Designer Kim Demont, demontdesign@verizon.net Finance Manager Cindy Astin, cindy@showcasemagazine.com 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
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Just like that Exposé song from the eighties goes, seasons change. So, welcome in the fall by tossing out those old socks and get a fresh start.
SEPTEMBER 2015 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Misty Brooks | Paulette Dean | Dave Gluharef Dena Hill | James Manuel | Larry Oldham Paul Seiple | Erin Thackston SEPTEMBER 2015 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Johnny Buck | Justin Hall Out of the Darkness | Erin Thackston
Before you know it, winter will be here. Enjoy the issue.
Paul Seiple EDITOR
Evince
THANK YOU to the ADVERTISERS who make this publication possible. Please be generous in supporting our local businesses.
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The other day, the thought just hit me that we are getting old. I mean, I know we can’t move like we use to, and we can’t do all the things we use to do. Sometimes when I think about it, I start to worry, because I can never regain my youth and vitality.
from WISHING you were back there. I agree life was easier then, and in some ways a lot more fun. Going back there is pining for the past and is not something I cherish.
Nostalgia is great and getting older is hard, but would you really want to go back and live in that era? You go into withdrawal Don’t forget we were born when the Internet is down! Our before television was invented, lives, even as older people, are a PHOTO BY MICHELLE DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY CDs, credit cards, laser beams, lot easier and a lot more fun. We ball point pens, yogurt, day care centers, and group jump in our air-conditioned car, play DVDs and CDs, therapy. Our parents got married before they lived push back the moon roof, and talk on our cell phone together and every family had a mother and a father instead of stopping at a telephone booth. When we get at home. Divorce wasn’t even talked about in public, to our destination, we stay in a great hotel, eat at nice because it was a taboo subject. When we were born restaurants, and do all the things we never got to do there were no McDonald’s, Pizza Huts, or instant as children. Getting older can be fun. Look at all of our coffee. What did we eat back then? Gas was twenty experiences and memories. Look at how the younger cents, Cokes were a nickel, and milk was a quarter. generation jumps up to open the door for us, offer The only “grass” we had was the kind you mowed their seat to us, and help us cross the street (maybe and every time I mowed the neighbor’s yard she gave that’s pushing it a little bit far). me a dollar and a half. Mom hung the clothes on the clothesline OUTSIDE to dry. We looked up at the Looking things up on the Internet is a whole lot more moon at night but never dreamed anyone would fun than driving downtown to the library and going ever walk on it. All of our homework was done at through the card catalog to locate a book on General the library, but some of the wealthy kids had a set of Lee in the 1800s. Going through the drive-thru and encyclopedias at home. Of course, none of us had the getting an ice cream cone is a lot faster than going Internet. outside and turning the old crank for an hour, and that’s after getting all the ingredients together. It basically Maybe I am just getting nostalgic for the old days took two hours to get one bowl of ice cream. But, we when life was simpler. Instead of whining about have our health, we do as we please, we have fun doing getting old, maybe I should be happy that I lived in the it, and those days of struggling to get somewhere are good old days and got to see all of the newfangled finished for us. Admit it, honey, we used to talk about inventions and all of the up-to-date gadgets, like having growing old together, sitting in a rocking chair on the a cell phone to call you all the time. front porch, and helping each other navigate walkers. Well, we’re almost there! I will give you one nostalgic thought though — making out at the drive-in was a lot of fun. Oh wait a minute, that wasn’t you was it? Never mind, you’re right, we ARE getting old. Looking back at the “good old days “is a lot different
SHE SAID...
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he said...she said...
HE SAID...
by Larry Oldham and Dena Hill
NOSTALGIA RULES
| SEPTEMBER 2015 | SHOWCASE Magazine 9
health
A Better You
Take Care of You! By Fitness Professional and Healthy Writer Dave Gluhareff
Do you take care of yourself? No really… do you honestly take care of your physical health and well-being? Are you in control of you? Do you have control of your weight or does your weight control you? Do you have control of your schedule? Do you make things happen in your life or does life tend to push you around? Do you have control of stress in your life or does stress control you?
Von Wellington Photography
Dave Gluhareff In the late 1990s David Gluhareff lost over 100 pounds. Dave then became a certified personal trainer with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) and began his career as a personal trainer. In June of 2009 David earned the elite status of Master of Fitness Sciences (MFS) by the ISSA, their highest level of personal training qualifications. As a personal trainer, Dave has been helping people take charge of their physiques to help them feel, look, and move better through life. Visit www. VirginiaBootcamp. com for more information.
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Ignoring your well-being can lead to a downward spiral of weight gain and laziness that affects physical, mental, and emotional health. This negativity is then projected on the ones we love. If you cannot successfully take care of yourself, you cannot successfully take care of others. Weight gain usually couples with an unhealthy lifestyle. Sickness, dependence of medication, and decreased productivity are often byproducts of turning a blind eye to well-being. If preventable (or highly treatable) diseases such as high blood pressure and obesity are controlling your life, then you have to STOP now. Wake up and take back control of you. There is no excuse for this enabling behavior any longer. Life can be a rocky road, but ultimately we are in behind the wheel. The only person to blame for skipping the gym or binge eating junk food while camped out on the couch playing video games for hours and hours is you. You choose the fries, chips, sodas, and pastries instead of the fruits, veggies, water, and whole grain snacks. Life is about your choices not anyone else’s. You are in charge of YOU. It’s more efficient and less time consuming to be active and exercise. Eating healthy is cheaper than eating junk. Getting more sleep is crucial to a happy life. Stop making excuses that are frankly wrong, inaccurate, sloppy, lazy, and dangerous to your health and follow these 3 healthy tips: 1) Make your health a priority.
You have to come first. It’s your responsibility to take care of you. When you are healthy in body, mind, and spirit you are a better worker, student, family member, friend, colleague, and human being. Exercise regularly, be active, eat healthy foods, eat often throughout the day, drink plenty of water, rest, sleep 8 hours each night, take naps when you can, and take some time for you each day. 2) Communicate and set boundaries. Do not hold in your emotions. Stop bottlingup your feelings and not expressing yourself. Talk to someone when you are feeling down. Be a better communicator. Tell people you love that you love them. Compliment people who deserve compliments. If you need to vent emotions then speak to a family member, friend, or counselor you trust and share your emotions. Communicate issues with your spouse or significant other. If you have an issue with a family member or friend then ask to setup some time and have a calm conversation with them about the issue or with a mediator. Do not keep things inside. Share, cry, laugh, love with your family and friends. 3) Make things happen by taking action to get things scheduled and done. You control how you live your life. Setting boundaries to protect your workout time, free time, quality time with your family and close friends is very much needed. It’s also okay to say no to someone or something when your schedule is full and you are near a stressful tipping point. Create boundaries to protect yourself from becoming overwhelmed. Take action don’t just talk about doing things. Talk is cheap. Make things happen that you want to happen. If you want to lose body fat then make a plan and do it. Life is going to throw curve balls, but ultimately you chose what paths you take and how you take them. Stop making excuses and stop being too busy for you. Your health revolves around you. Make good and healthy things happen for you now. SM
Visit www.TrainWithDave.com
and click on Nutrition Plan for Dave’s FREE nutrition plan!
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Out of the Darkness: Taking the fight to suicide, one step at a time
feature
by James Manuel Photos and Graphs: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Out of the Darkness
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Taking the fight to suicide, one step at a time. Suicide. How does the word make you feel? Uncomfortable, sad, ashamed? The truth is the term suicide elicits more emotions than simplifying them into a few general categories. The world has torn down many walls and opened doors to previously taboo topics that have defined a generation and redefined our culture; however, suicide is still whispered as if the very word is infectious. Mental illnesses and suicide exist in a parallel universe of misunderstanding tied neatly together in a stigma. There has been no light in the quiet, lonesome suffering of mental illness. Suicide, the suicidal or the survivors left behind by suicide are largely lost in their battle for answers. Communities across the country and around the globe struggle with the ripple effects of suicide to their children, parents, siblings, and friends. Someone had to step up and start the dialogue to bring awareness to mental illness, remove the stigma associated with it, and fight to reduce the numbers lost to suicide. In 1987, there was a group of families who had lost someone to suicide who joined forces with a team of scientists to form the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and subsequently the Out of the Darkness Walks fundraising chapters. “They fund research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss. Headquartered in New York, AFSP has 75 local chapters and events nationwide,” says LeAnne Hardy, Chair for the Danville Community Out of the Darkness Walk to be held on October 24, 2015. “With nearly 200,000 people walking in 350 cities across the country, these walks stand as AFSP’s biggest fundraiser and the driver of the suicide prevention movement.” Hardy, who lost her brother to suicide in 2013, searched for ways to start her journey to healing and push back against the devastation
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felt through every fabric of her family. After six months of grappling with her grief she realized something had to be done, “I thought about how my parents seemed to have lost hope and how uncertain our worlds were. And then I realized there are other families out there struggling just like us.” In March of this year Hardy applied to AFSP for Danville to become one of the Out of the Darkness Community Walk host cities. In May, when the city was approved for the walk, her mission was defined and her goal became clear. “If we can prevent just one life lost to suicide then we are doing good work, and we are making a difference.” The challenge is not an easy one with many more days of work to pull the event together, but she has assembled her own small group of individuals and families, who have been painfully affected by suicide, to join the mission of raising awareness, removing the stigma, and reducing the number of senseless deaths in the Danville/Pittsylvania County areas. “Through fundraising and donations, AFSP has been able to set a goal to reduce the annual suicide rate 20 percent by 2025. Onehundred percent of all monies raised through the Danville Community Out of the Darkness Walk will go back to the AFSP with 50 percent being returned to our area in the form of programs, training, and education literature for our schools, medical Continued to Page 14
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Out of the Darkness
professionals, civic leaders, and first responders”.
Continued from page 13
A year ago, suicide was thrust onto our nation when Robin Williams succeeded in his attempt. What many people haven’t realized is that in that year we lost over 39,000 people to suicide, or 1 successful suicide every 13 minutes. “That’s more lives than war, murder, and natural disasters combined,” says Robert Gebbia CEO of AFSP. Meanwhile, the CDC reports that suicidal thoughts and plans are even more widespread. In 2010 — the most current comprehensive data available — 8.3 million American adults had suicidal thoughts over the past year, 2.2 million went as far as to make plans, and 1 million actually made a suicide attempt. In 2013, the year of Hardy’s family tragedy, approximately 41,100 Americans died from suicide, according to the CDC, with 41 of those being Danville City residents and 49 being Pittsylvania County residents. The trends are sharp and the statistics overwhelming, suicide does not discriminate, and it knows no race, no economic class, or sexual orientation. For every woman who dies by suicide, four men die, and one in five who die by suicide are veterans. These are people we
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know — they are our friends, family members, and neighbors. Sadly, 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and treatable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death. Currently, One in four people have some form of mental disorder and one in ten suffer from depression as reported by the AFSP.
LeAnne Hardy is a self-proclaimed “vessel” for this cause. The truth is — this is everyone’s journey. It needs to be attacked like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, or any other leading cause of death. “And if we don’t stop loss of life to suicide, even more families will suffer,” Hardy adds. Awareness has to be raised so that people will recognize when something is “off” and that their struggles are a result of a mental illness. The stigma needs to be removed so that there can be a culture of understanding that depression and suicide are not signs of weakness or cowardly. Those who suffer cannot simply “get over it” or “take control of their life,” they cannot “just be happy.” Unless you have lived it, you have no idea what it is to suffer with the disease. The Danville Community Out of the Darkness Walk will be held Saturday, October 24, 2015 from 12pm- 6:30pm at Angler’s Park and will cover approximately 3.5 miles. Registration begins at noon, the walk starts at 2pm with the closing ceremony beginning around 4:30pm, but the fun lasts all day! There will be hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn, cotton candy, live entertainment, games, activities, and fitness and nutrition demonstrations. All activities are FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!!!! Local community resources will be on hand to let the general public know about the services they provide for the residents of Danville, Pittsylvania County and surrounding areas. The hope is that by putting a face with a name, a person may be more willing to ask for help if a
personal connection is made. There is a Memorial program, where families who have lost a loved one to suicide will be given a FREE opportunity to remember the LIFE of their loved one versus the circumstances of their death. Families who register in advance can submit their loved ones name and picture and our Memorial Program Committee will have that turned into a plague to honor the lives lost to suicide. These memorials will be on display the day of the walk and after the ceremony. Families will be able to take them home. For more information contact: danville. outofthedarkness@yahoo.com Participants can register the day of the event or they can visit: http://afsp.donordrive.com/index. cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=3567 “I want people to remember the lives we have lost and join us on the mission to prevent future loss of life to suicide. Remember our mission — 20 percent by 2025,” Hardy says. “I want to be the voice of suicide so those who are contemplating suicide can hear MY story and maybe, just maybe, they will reconsider if they know the devastation it leaves behind. And to those who are living in the aftermath of suicide, I want them to know they are not alone”. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental illness and contemplating suicide, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255), they are trained professionals waiting to help. www.showcasemagazine.com
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Brewster Walk
feature
Free “walking maps” of Uptown Martinsville will be distributed in hopes that attendees will venture by foot to eat and shop Uptown. Ticket buyers who take a walk through Uptown can also enter a raffle for the chance to win tickets to the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, held each May at Pop’s Farm in Axton.
Great beer and rockin’ live music will join forces when the first annual Brewster Walk Craft Beer Festival & Concerts takes place on Saturday, Oct. 10 in Uptown Martinsville.
Photos courtesy of Johnny Buck
The event, put on by the same non-profit group that produces the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival in Martinsville, will feature roughly 50 different craft beers and three bands: The Chris Duarte Group, Wild Ponies (formerly known as Doug & Telisha Williams) and Junto. Organizers are hoping the daytime street party will also help promote the City’s historic downtown area, which is called “Uptown Martinsville” by locals.
To be held October 10 in Uptown Martinsville
Brewster Basics
The section of East Church Street directly in front of the Rives Theatre will be blocked to thru traffic for the day, allowing a large portable stage to be erected. The stage will straddle the middle of the road, and each brewery will have two to four different craft beers available to sample or purchase. Organizers are expecting at least 20 different breweries to participate. “We’re really excited about bringing Uptown Martinsville its first craft beer festival, complete with three great bands that have strong local followings,” said Johnny Buck, co-founder of Rooster Walk Inc., the nonprofit putting on Brewster Walk. “We see this as a great way to help promote the businesses and attractions unique to Martinsville-Henry County, and especially those located in Uptown Martinsville. Our goal is to sell all 600 tickets in advance and donate $7,500 to local charities from proceeds raised by this one-day event.” Two food vendors will also set up at the event, though Buck also expects some of the festival’s attendees to eat at one of the locally-owned restaurants within walking distance of the stage.
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“The details aren’t set in stone yet, but we plan on doing something similar to a scavenger hunt or ‘passport booklet’ that helps drive foot traffic to the local shops and nonprofits in Uptown,” said Buck. “Once you’ve visited a certain number of these attractions, you’ll be able to enter the raffle for free. The winner will be drawn that day, and the ticket package will be worth several hundred dollars.”
Tickets and Beer
One of the beautiful things about a craft beer festival is the chance to try out new beers that you might not be familiar with. General admission tickets to Brewster Walk will cost $25 each and include 15 beer vouchers, as well as a commemorative sampling glass.VIP tickets will cost $45 each and include 25 beer vouchers, the commemorative sampling glass and entry into to the Rives Theatre, which will serve as the event’s VIP Hospitality Area.VIP ticket holders will also be admitted to the event beginning at 1pm, while general admission ticket holders will not be admitted until 2pm. Each beer voucher can be redeemed for a free, 3-ounce sample of any craft beer at the event. Or, attendees can use 2 tickets to get a 6-ounce pour, three tickets to receive a 9-ounce pour, and so on. Additional beer vouchers, if needed, can be purchased on-site during the festival.
Brewster Walk tickets are sold online at www.roosterwalk.com. They can also be purchased in Martinsville from the Daily Grind Coffee House (303 E. Church St.) and from Rising Sun Breads (1049 Brookdale St.). Tickets for designated drivers cost just $10 each. These “D.D.” tickets, which don’t include beer vouchers, are only available online. More information can be found at www.roosterwalk.com.
Music at Brewster Walk
Live music will start at 2:30pm, when Junto takes the stage. A five-piece alt-country band from Asheville, N.C., Junto is led by Win Webster on lead vocals/guitar and Jay Franck on electric mandolin. Webster and Franck, both Martinsville natives, were core members of Sanctum Sully, a popular bluegrass band that split up about 2 years ago. Wild Ponies, an Americana group from Nashville, will take the stage at 3:45pm. The Wild Ponies are a three-piece band fronted by Martinsville natives Doug & Telisha Williams that received praise from the Huffington Post. “...Comparisons to Lucinda (Williams) are inevitable, along with rough-and-tumble daring duos such as Shovels & Rope and honeyhoney, and Americana’s current power couple, recent newlyweds Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires,” read the Huffington Post piece. “All of them know how to capably cover shaky ground, but exploring deep, dark places seems to come naturally for Wild Ponies.” The music lineup will come to a wailing, rocking finish when The Chris Duarte Group hits the stage at 5:15pm. Led by electric guitarist Chris Duarte, the band plays a style of Texas blues-rock that draws on elements of jazz, blues, and rock and roll. Duarte, whose playing has often been compared to the late Stevie Ray Vaughan, has a brother who lives in the Martinsville- Henry County area. The songs on Duarte’s most recent release, Lucky 13, “aptly showcase many sides of this brilliant artist in the context of high energy blues rock with moments that bring to mind legendary artists as diverse as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Robin Trower, Jimi Hendrix, and Eric Johnson,” wrote Tad Smith, a music reporter for Beat Atlanta.
Supporting Arts and Education
Just like the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, Brewster Walk will be raising money for charities in the Martinsville-Henry County area. Specifically, organizers are hoping to donate a total of $,7,500
to the Penn-Shank Memorial Scholarship Fund at Martinsville High School, as well as a band instrument donation and repair program for local entry-level band students. The instrument program encourages music fans to donate old band instruments to Rooster Walk. These instruments are then repaired to playable condition and donated to entrylevel band programs in the Martinsville City or Henry County public school systems.
Chris D
uar te
“No student who’s interested in starting band class should be turned away because they can’t afford an instrument,” said Buck. “Through this program, we’ll be helping the public school band programs curate a collection of instruments that is available to their youngest students. And along the same lines, there may be a kid where money isn’t the problem, it’s being unsure of what instrument they want to play. With this program, kids could try their hand at two or three different instruments before deciding which one they want to study full-time.” Festival organizers will also have a tent at Brewster Walk for anyone interested in donating an old band instrument. Donors can receive a tax donation letter, a ticket package to a future Rooster Walk Inc., event, or a combination of the two, depending on the value of the donated instrument. A 501c3 community nonprofit, Rooster Walk Inc.’s mission is to “promote music, arts and education in Martinsville & Henry County.” Since the first Continued to Page 22 www.showcasemagazine.com
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Brewster Walk Continued from page 21
Rooster Walk festival in 2009, the company has donated more than $80,000 to local charities. It was founded in memory of Martinsville natives Edwin “the Rooster” Penn and Walker Shank, who passed away within a year of one another while in their mid-20s.
Brewster Boosters
Brewster Walk is made possible thanks to the generous support of the local business and arts communities in and around Martinsville-Henry County. The festival’s bands will perform on Junto a portable stage that Rooster Walk Inc. purchased through a grant from the Harvest Foundation. In addition, BB&T had already pledged to serve as a presenting sponsor by mid-August, and HomeTrust Bank,VisitMartinsville.com, Serenity Cabinets & Millwork, QuarterDeck and Studio 107 were also on board as sponsors of the event. “We’re hoping for a sellout in advance and great weather on Oct. 10,” said Buck. “But beyond that, we’re hoping that Brewster Walk becomes an
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annual fall staple for Uptown Martinsville. We’d like nothing more than to see this beer festival grow in attendance and footprint over the coming years. We’ve seen it happen in other cities around us, and there’s absolutely no reason it can’t be done in Martinsville.”
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The Benefits of Theatre Arts
feature
The Benefits of Theatre Arts
for Children and Youth And the story of how taking the stage changed one little girl for good
by Erin Thackston Photos courtesy of Erin Thackston
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As I watched my daughter walk out of the school doors and into the car-rider line one sunny day last November, I smiled to myself as I caught a glimpse of the new her. There was a bounce in her step and a toss of her ponytail that I had not seen before. I studied her more closely. Her chin was lifted a little higher, her smile a little brighter, and her selfconfidence more evident than usual.
time when her desire to be on stage would outweigh her fears. I promised her that we would come back over and over again to auditions until she found the courage to try. I promised her that she would have her chance. I promised to not give up on her dream to be on stage if she promised not to lose her spark. We each made good on our promises, and what a difference it has made.
What a difference a year had made. Courtland loves theatre. She loves the drama, the singing, the lights, and the costumes. She admires the actors and is drawn to the excitement of live theatre. More than a year and a half before, she thought she wanted to be a part of that excitement. We attended an audition for a Prizery Summer Theatre production, but when it was her turn to take the stage, she turned to me with tears in her eyes, and confessed, “I can’t do this.” We walked back into the hallway, where on my knees, I wrapped my arms around her as she and I both cried. I promised her that there would come a
Last fall, I was presented with the opportunity to direct Halifax County Little Theatre’s production of Charlotte’s Web at the Prizery Cultural and Performing Arts Center in South Boston. An array of interested newcomers and seasoned theatre veterans auditioned, including my own children, who finally felt able to take the risks necessary to be a part of a live theatre production. Courtland’s desire to be on stage had outweighed her fears. After two weeks of auditions, 42 local children and adults were cast in HCLT’s Charlotte’s Web. Numerous non-speaking parts were added to the original cast list, such as
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extra spiders and barnyard animals, townspeople, and fairgoers. My two children were assigned nonspeaking roles as requested, one red cock-a-doodledooing rooster, and one mysteriously beautiful barn owl. The following three months consisted of ten weeks of rehearsals, costume fittings with Ginny Bogart, dress rehearsals, tech days, set building, and choreography sessions with Pat Crew, all culminating in ten performances, eight of which were complete sell outs. There were also two student performances, in which more than 500 elementary school students watched from the audience thanks to a grant through the Halifax County Education Foundation. In addition, the characters participated in a Saturday morning character luncheon, meet and greet, and photo opportunity for little ones. When the cast and crew began our journey, we started with only an idea. There was no cast, no scripts, no props, no set, no costumes, just an idea. Over the next three months, the cast and crew were formed. A set was built. Props were placed. Costumes were fitted. Lights were set. Lines were rehearsed. Dances were choreographed. Lives were changed. The little girl who, a year and a half earlier, had cried to me, “I can’t do this,” had tested her boundaries and gained the confidence she needed to overcome her fears. She now fluttered gracefully, without saying a word, across the Prizery stage, adorned with stage makeup, donning her barn owl attire, warm from the stage lights, in front of an audience. Her whole class came. They brought her flowers. Throughout the weeks leading to the final production, I noticed a change occur, not only in my own children, but in the others, as well. They became more comfortable with themselves and each other. Many asked for speaking parts as they became more comfortable onstage. Although I couldn’t
accommodate last-minute speaking lines, I used the opportunity to encourage future theatre involvement. Self-confidence was achieved through authentic experience. The children formed connections with each other. Friends were made. Words and lines and parts were memorized. Communication skills were sharpened. Comfort levels were tested. Problems were solved. Barriers were overcome. A real sense of accomplishment was felt. Hearts were won for the stage during those three autumn months. Courtland’s chin was lifted a little bit higher, her smile a little wider, and her selfconfidence a little more evident than usual. The skills gained from drama education and theatre involvement apply cross culturally, regardless of socioeconomic status, and can be applied to school, career, and life. As the children head back to school this fall, and you are arranging all of the extra-curricular activities, teams, and events, I suggest theatre, with its abundant social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. The American Alliance for Theatre & Education reports that theatre involvement builds social and communication skills, improves self-esteem and selfconcept, and boosts confidence in academic abilities. In addition, it has been shown to improve reading comprehension, improve both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, increase standardized test scores, and improve skills and academic performance in children and youth with learning disabilities. Other studies have shown that theatre can improve or sharpen the following in children and youth: • Self-discovery Continued to Page 26 www.showcasemagazine.com
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Theater Arts
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• Self-confidence • Teamwork • Social and cultural awareness • Cognitive skills such as concentration, memory, reading comprehension, and critical thinking • Self-discipline • Self management • Problem solving • Leadership skills • Public speaking • Physical fitness • Appreciation for other art forms • Business skills, such as marketing and budgeting • Responsible decision making • Building lasting friendships. Children have the opportunity to make new friends, be a friend to others, and support one another both on and off the stage.
Erin Thackston lives in South Boston with her family, where they appreciate the balance, lifestyle, and easy pace that their charming small town provides. She is the author of the regional blog Southern Virginia Mom, where she writes about her own experiences living in Southern Virginia.You can read her blog and more articles like this at www. sovamom.blogspot.com.
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My husband Mark, our children, and I all began our theatre involvement with the Halifax County Little Theatre. Since 1955, it has been a vital part of Halifax County and surrounding area, performing in elementary school gyms, the high school auditorium, various outdoor locations, restaurants, and for the past 10 years in the beautiful Chastain Theatre at The Prizery. For its 2015-2016 season, HCLT will showcase the Power of Theater with three productions that educate, enlighten, and entertain. The November season opener will be a joint production with The Prizery in honor of The Prizery’s 10th Anniversary: Alan Menken’s musical version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This holiday classic is a must-see tradition with a large cast, haunting music, and a story that inspires, directed by Chris Jones. In February, Becky Donner will direct a powerful piece that showcases a turbulent moment in American history with hopes to bring the community together in a dialogue of peace and respect. Four Little Girls: Birmingham 1963 brings into focus the realities of the Civil Rights movement by telling the stories of the four girls America mourned. As these four girls
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share their everyday lives, the audience will come to know these girls as young people with hopes and dreams and names. Finally, director Kasey Rising will bring SHREK THE MUSICAL to the stage! The characters you know and love such as Lord Farquad, Princess Fiona, Donkey, Pinocchio, The Gingerbread Man, and Shrek himself will keep the theatre full of laughter in this Broadway adaptation. HCLT is proud to have been a part of Halifax County life for 60 years. They look forward to many more years of fostering a love for the arts, providing creative opportunities for young and old, and bringing great stories to life on stage. For more information about the season and how you and your children can audition, go to www.hclt.org. If you are looking for a community theatre organization closer to your own home, consider one of the following. Break a leg! Danville,Virginia: • North Star Theatre Project www.northstartheatreproject.com • North Theatre www.thenorththeatre.com • Danville Little Theatre www.danvillelittletheatre.org • Danville Center Stage www.facebook.com/ DanvilleCenterStage Yanceyville, North Carolina: • Caswell Council for the Arts www.ccfta.org • Caswell County Civic Center www.ccfta.org Roxboro, North Carolina: • The Kirby Theatre www.personcounty.net • Roxboro Little Theatre www.personcounty.net Clarksville,Virginia: • Clarksville Community Players www.clarksvilleplayers.webs.com Martinsville/Henry County: • Theatreworks Community Players www.piedmontarts.org
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games Fun &
ACROSS 1 Iranian’s neighbor 6 Opaque gem 10 Dining hall 14 Civil 15 Mineral 16 Rice wine 17 Declare 18 Attorney (abbr.) 19 Facial expression 20 Bird’s home 21 Removed gradually, with “out” 23 Oolong 24 Realm 26 First month of Jewish calendar 28 Literary compositions 31 Tier 32 Lyric poem 33 Beauty Marilyn 36 Organization concerned with civil liberties (abbr.) 40 Agency (abbr.) 42 Fat 43 Opp. of yeses 44 Levee 45 African nation
Name the
ARCH WORD SE E THEM
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WIN!
o’s II $25 Medificate t r gift ce
48 Single 49 Bullets 51 Speech maker 53 __ Rico 56 Asleep 57 Picnic visitor 58 Skewed 61 Jest 65 Potato 67 Forehead 68 Blustery 69 Ocean movement 70 Torso extensions 71 Stand up 72 Fresh 73 Spy 74 Heavy metals
10 Chinese flavoring 11 Land 12 Snow slider 13 Moses’ mountain 21 Mexican money 22 Perish 25 Rock group 27 Bridge 28 Cowboy boot projection 29 Tense 30 Where a scarf goes 31 Go at it alone
34 Taboo 35 Big truck 37 Bird 38 Comedian Jay 39 Drug doer 41 Time period 45 One-celled animals 46 Thunderous 47 Extremity 50 I want my ___ 52 Abstain from 53 Noodles 54 Unfasten the pins of
55 Music used as practice 56 Gossipy 59 Goofs 60 Sport 62 Land mass 63 Posttraumatic stress disorder 64 Potato sprouts 66 Condensation 68 Young lady
DOWN 1 Computer picture button 2 Aged 3 Car rental agency 4 Albanian monetary unit 5 Winter hazard 6 City 7 Pocket bread 8 Deeds 9 Newborn outfit
HOW TO ENTER
Email paul@showcasemagazine.com with the theme of this Word Search (September 2015) for a chance to win a $25 Medo’s II gift certificate. Winner will be announced on Facebook (Showcase Magazine) on October 1, 2015.
RATING: EASY
APPLE AVOCADO
CAULIFLOWER
MANGO
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OKRA
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BLUEBERRIES BROCCOLI
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PUMPKIN SPINACH SWEET POTATO WATERMELON
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ANSWERS ON PAGE 32
DANVILLE
S M T W T F S
Healthy Mouth/Healthy Body: Making the connection and The Vaccine Against HPV that will Save Lives: who should get it, when and why
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Medical Experts Present a Free Two Part Program
DON’T
HELPING HANDS | H O B B I E S / S P O RT S | KIDS | LIFESTYLE/LECTURE
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1-29 – Let’s Dance – VVeteran dance instructor, Donna Robbins, teaches a variety of dances in a fun atmosphere. A partner is not necessary to enjoy this class. Adults 18 and over. T 7-8:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 3 – Wreck of the Old 97 – Join the Danville Historical Society in celebrating the Wreck of the Old 97 with an evening reminiscent of a trip to the movie theater in the 1950s. The famous 1903 Danville train wreck will be highlighted in short snippets: a cartoon, the 1952 old-time-radio drama, and a 30 minute video feature. 7-8:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 4,11,18,25 – Friday Night Fun and Dance – Join over 100 dancers for a night of dancing, having fun and meeting new friends. Ages 50 and over. FRI 7:3010:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 5 – Artfelt Expressions of Bob Ross – Here is your opportunity to learn to paint the Bob Ross way. Ed Gowen, certified Bob Ross instructor, will help you complete a beautiful painting in just one day.
E N T E RTA I N M E N T
Arts/Exhibits/ Entertainment
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SEPTEMBER 2015
Ongoing – Estlow’s Trains Exhibit – John “Jack” Estlow, Jr. originally constructed this “N” Scale Train layout which was donated by his daughters and grandson so visitors can enjoy trains running in the train station. Danville Science Center. 434.791.5160. Ongoing – Digital Dome Theater – Now showing in the Digital Dome Theater at the Danville Science Center: Wildest Weather in the Solar System, Pandas: The Journey Home, Magic Tree House, Forces of Nature, Perfect Little Planet, Sea Monsters. Danville Science Center. 434.791.5160. Ongoing – How People Make Things – Discover the methods of producing and manufacturing everyday objects as you travel through this interactive exhibition inspired by the factory segments from Mister Roger’s Neighborhood television series. Guests of all ages can explore a behind the scenes view of how an item is made as they traverse through a variety of hands-on activities that incorporate real factory tools and machines. Featuring the four manufacturing processes of cutting, molding, deforming and reassembling, How People Make Things demonstrates each process in a fun and safe manner. Danville Science Center. 434.791.5160. 26 – Bark in the Park – Participate in this year’s annual dog and owner play day in the
Please bring a roll of paper towels and a 16x20 canvas. All other supplies are included. Adults 18 and up.10:30am-3:30pm. Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216. 12 – Covers at the Crossing Concert – Dave Matthews Tribute Band. 6:30-11pm. Carrington Pavilion. 434.793.4636. 12 – Community Health and Fall Festival – Blood mobile, health screenings, health education kids’ zone, food, and more. 10am-2pm. Fairview United Methodist Church. 14 – Mystery Trip Express – We never disclose where we might be going. Trips are kept to an hour and a half max. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.11am12pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 18 – COAY Country & Western Dance – Join the Council on Aging Youthfully for a special Friday night dance featuring music, dancing and refreshments.7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 18 – Hooray for Hollywood – Presented by Christ Episcopal Church and Mt.Vernon United Methodist Church. Enjoy an evening of Hollywood movies nostalgia. The show will be directed by Gary Sullivan and will also include a tribute to Disney, Doris Day, and Mario Lanza. 9/18 7:30pm, 9/20 2:30 pm. Mt.Vernon United Methodist Church. For tickets call 434.792.1456. 19 – 16th Annual Altavista Harvest Jubilee and Wine Festival – 12-6pm. Avoca Museum. Altavista. www.avocamuseum.org. 26 – Old 97 Rail Days – Attention train buffs- Enjoy N-scale model
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Kids/Family
park sponsored by Leggett Town & Country, featuring canine disc Hyperflite, bobbing for hotdogs, best dressed pup and owner-dog look alike contests. Immediately following the Mutt Strut at Anglers Park. All competitions are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. 10am-1pm. 434.799.5215.
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MISS!
Join us for this free program on Tuesday, September 15, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at Ballou Recreation Center, lower level. Dynamic speakers, Donna F. Helton, DDS, owner of Comprehensive Family Dentistry in Danville and Iain Morgan, PhD, Director of VCU Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, will present a two part program, Healthy Mouth/Healthy Body: Making the connection and The Vaccine Against HPV that will Save Lives: who should get it, and when and why that is the case. This is part of the popular, free Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit Series for those concerned with cancer prevention and survivorship. The information is beneficial for all ages and the entire community is welcome. Did you know that your oral health, your mouth, teeth and gums, can offer clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Do you know what the HPV virus is? Did you know a vaccine is available and recommend by the Virginia Department of Health? This timely and exciting program is brought to the Dan River Region by the Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia/Danville in partnership with Danville Parks & Recreation. Please being your lunch and a friend! Drinks and dessert are provided. Boxed lunches can be ordered in advance for $6.50. Call the Resource Center to make a reservation, 434-421-3060, or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. The Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia is funded by VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission.
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trains as they travel through tiny towns and rural areas courtesy of numerous N-scale clubs. Trains run and weave along multi-layer tracks crossing artistic landscapes of mountains, valleys and rivers. Also visit the Science Center’s fully restored 1948 Norfolk & Western Caboose along the train tracks. 10am-5pm. Danville Science Center. 434.791.5160.
Lifestyle/Lectures
1,15 – Toastmasters – Toastmasters members improve their communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. 6-7:15 pm. National University T. 434.793.1431. 2-30 – Danville’ Farmers’s Market – Get the best selection of fresh, local produce, baked goods, meats, arts and crafts, and much more. Everything you need for a fresh, locally grown supper. (W) 3-6pm, (SAT) 7:30am-12pm. Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961. 3 – Job Corps Information Session – Job Corps helps young adults learn a career, earn a high school diploma, and gain the real world skills needed to succeed.Vocational training is available in rapidly growing career areas, such as certified nursing, carpentry, culinary arts, auto repair, electrical, welding and many more. 10:30am-12:30pm. Workforce Development Center. 434.455.2521. 12 – Breakfast with the Farmers – Sign up to have a breakfast made from 12 – Breakfast with the Farmers – Sign up to have a breakfast made from locally grown foods and prepared by a local chef. The menu will be comprised almost entirely of local ingredients available at the Market including eggs, sausage, potatoes, vegetables, fruits, bread and more. Tickets are $6 each and include a meal and beverage. 8am. Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961. 12 – Bean Supper – Meal includes pinto beans, other beans, slaw, cornbread, drink, and dessert. 5-7pm.Riverbend Volunteer Fire Department. 434.79792.2312. 15 – Danville Memory Café – This cafe is a place for relaxed conversation and interaction for persons who are diagnosed with early stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or another related memory disorder. Care partners/family are invited to this social opportunity, too. 11am-12pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 15 – Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit – For those concerned with cancer survival and prevention, Cancer Research & Resource Center of Southern Virginia presents “Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit. Open to the entire community. A variety of professional speakers will answer your questions.11:30am-1pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.421.3060. 17 – Garden Basics – Fall lawn care. Registration required. 12-1:30pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. 17 – Social Security:Your Questions
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Answered – Topics covered include: when to start taking benefits, how your taxes will be affected and how Social Security fits into your retirement income plans.6-7:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 19-Nov. 5 – Throw Paint at Cancer – A free, exciting peer to peer support program for cancer patients and survivors to express themselves through art. No previous art experience is required. There is no cost to sign up and all supplies are provided. The talented and dynamic instructor is artist, preservationist and cancer survivor Cynthia Hubbard, MFA. What a wonderful opportunity to learn about painting, have fun and enjoy the fellowship of other cancer survivors. Throw Paint at Cancer is made possible with the generous support of Danville Regional Medical Center partnering with the Cancer Research & Resource Center of Southern Virginia/Danville and the Danville Museum of fine Arts & History. The Cancer Research & Resource Center is funded by VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Regional Revitalization Commission. 3:00 p.m.5:00 p.m. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History Swanson Studio. Space is limited – Register today! Please call the Cancer Resource Center, 421-3060 or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. 19 – 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s programs and services and national research efforts. Currently, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, the sixthleading cause of death and the second most feared health condition in the U.S. Go to alz.org/walk to learn more or sign up your team today. 8am. Ballou Park. 434.792.3700 x 224. 22 – You and Your Health – Hill Chiropractic - Danville Parks and Rec. and local organizations will offer seminars to educate, inform and raise awareness about health and wellness issues affecting the community. 11am-12pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848. 26 – Crucial Conversations: They Begin with Nurses – Barb Bancroft, a nationally known speaker, will discuss HPV/related cancers in both men and women, at a FREE program on Saturday, September 26, at the New College Institute, Martinsville. Although nurses can receive 4.5 CEU’s, this incredible program is open to the entire community. Bancroft is an outstanding and entertaining speaker. Following her presentation, there will be a panel discussion featuring local experts in various medical fields. Continental breakfast and lunch provided. The doors open at 8:00 for check in and breakfast and the panel discussion concludes at 1:30. Space is limited and registration is required. Register today, 434-799-3705. This incredible event is brought to the community by LifePoint
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Hospitals, New College Institute, Patrick Henry Community College, WPHDVDH (West Piedmont Health DistrictVirginia Department of Health) and with the generous financial support of PATHS,VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission. 28 – Step by Step Life with the Get Fit Team – Let’s fight cancer together. There are many things we can do to prevent cancer or the recurrence of cancer. Join us for nutrition tips, ways to put fun into fitness, and ideas for relieving stress. 4-5pm. Cancer Research and Resource Center at Kennedy Hall. 434.421.3060. 30 - October 1 – 77th Annual Garden Club of Virginia Rose Club – The Gabriella Garden Club of Danville will host the show sanctioned by the American Rose Society. 9/30 2-6pm, 10/1 9am-1pm. IALR. www.gcvirginia.org.
Hobbies/Sports
4,5,6 – NASA Eastern States Championships – All Day.Virginia International Raceway. 434.822.7700. www.virnow.com. 10 – Deco Mesh Wreath Making – Beautiful deco mesh wreaths are the hottest trend going and it is no wonder because they are so easy and quick to make. Deco mesh can be used indoors or out. It is perfect for celebrating the seasons and holidays, as well as life’s special events. 3-5pm, 6-8pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. 10,24 – Fall Kayak Trip – The cool temperatures make it a great time to learn a new skill, make new friends and enjoy the changing season while kayaking on the Dan River. Trips are limited to ten participants so be sure to secure your spot soon! 6-8pm. Abreu-Grogan Park. 17 – Stand Up Paddle Boarding – Bring your friends to the only place in Danville that you can try out stand up paddle boarding! Whether you are looking for a new fitness experience or just to unwind after work, this is your program. 6-8pm. Abreu-Grogan Park. 434.799.5215. 19,20 – CCS Fall CycleFest of Speed – Motorcycle and road racing’s best teams and riders are on to the track. Look for extremely close, side-by-side, knee dragging action as the contenders separate themselves from the pretenders for the coveted season crown! There will be more than 100 riders throughout the weekend and several different classes. All Day.VIR. 434.822.7700 x 117. www. virnow.com. 21,22 – Hunter Safety Education – Get prepared for the fall hunting season. This class covers safe hunting and gun handling practices and also meets requirements for a concealed weapons permit. Register by September 11th with the Department of Game and Island Fisheries a 1-888-516-0844 or at www. dgif.virginia.gov. Ages 12-adult.6-9:30pm. 434.799.5215.
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22-October 15 – Swimming for Beginners – Youth will learn basic strokes, fun water games and water safety. Ages 6-12. Scholarships are available for those who qualify. T-Th 4-5pm. 434.792.5215. 25-27 – Heacock Classic Gold Cup Historic Races – Each year on Saturday the gates are also opened to car enthusiasts to be a part of the happenings by participating in the Gold Cup Car Show. Foreign, domestic, new and old are welcome to attend. All Day.VIR. 434.822.7700 x117. www.virnow.com.
exhibits can also be seen in the old Train depot. Displays include NativeAmerican artifacts, photography, historic displays and more. Downtown Bassett. 276.647.3404. 12 – Virginia Fusion 6.0 Ultimate Frisbee Tournament – It is one of the largest ultimate frisbee tournaments in the country, bringing 900+ athletes from all over the country as well as Canada. We expect the elite club division to be even more competitive than it was last year, and will be continuing to build both the regular club division and college division as opportunities for more regionally and locally competitive teams. Smith River Sports Complex. 276.638.5200. 18 – TGIF Concert Series – Buckshot. 6-10pm. Broad Street parking lot. Uptown Martinsville. 18 – Third Friday Art Walk – Enjoy art, food, music, and fun along Martinsville’s historic streets. 5-7pm. Uptown Martinsville. 276.632.3221. 25 – Savory September – Celebrate the flavors of Latin America. This tasty fundraiser for the arts features signature dishes whipped up by local cooks and a cash bar with beer, wine and Latin libations. 7-10pm. Piedmont Arts. 276.632.3221. 26 – Smithsonian Museum Day – A nationwide even where participating museums across the country offer free admission with a Museum Day Live! ticket.VMNH. Martinsville. 276.634.4141.
ROXBORO
Lifestyle/Lectures
18-19 – Little Theater – Hee Haw. 6-8pm. Kirby Cultural Arts Complex. Roxboro. 336.583.4230.
MARTINSVILLE Lifestyle/Lectures
1-29 – Martinsville Farmer’s Market – W and SAT. 7am-12pm. Martinsville,VA. 5-30 – Exploring Virginia – Special exhibit featuring many specimens and artifacts of Virginia’s past.VMNH. Martinsville. 276.634.4141. 12 – Martinsville Culture Crawl – Join the fun by visiting Martinsville’s museums, art studios, shops and restaurants from 4 – 8 pm. Special events, including live music and community theatre, will take place at select venues. 4-8pm. Uptown Martinsville. 12 – Bassett Heritage Festival – The festival is held rain or shine. The Historic Train Depot and Greater Bassett’s Community Market will be open during the festival. Stop in and purchase local produce, canned goods, homemade goodies and handmade crafts. Historic
SOUTH BOSTON Arts/Exhibits/ Entertainment
13 – Sharon Saseen Lecture & Reception – Sharon Saseen, a well-
known artist, book author, and illustrator from Savannah, Georgia will present a lecture and PowerPoint presentation on her paintings at 2:30pm in the Banquet Hall, followed by a reception in the Art Gallery Lobby to premiere her exhibit in the Robert F. Cage Gallery. The Prizery. 276.572.8339. 18 – Stargazing Paddle – The Town of Halifax is partnering with Staunton River State Park to bring you a chance to see the stars under a truly dark sky. Staunton River State Park, located just twenty minutes from the Town of Halifax was recently designated the 25th Dark Sky Park in the world by the International Dark Sky Authority. The Banister Stargazing Paddle kicks off the 2015 Wild Blue River Festival. 6pm.Banister Lake Landing. Halifax. 19 – The Wild Blue River Festival – 8am-12pm - Vendors and Activities.9amKayak Race. 9:30am - Canoe Race. 10am-12pm -Open Paddle. Kings Bridge Landing. Halifax. 23 – Melinda Doolittle – Melinda Doolittle has established herself as a brilliant singer with powerhouse vocals and personal charm since her appearance on American Idol in 2007, where she came in third. She will be joined by her trio for an afternoon of Gospel and R&B. 2:30pm. The Prizery. 434.572.8339. 26 – South Boston Harvest Festival – There is something for everyone, young and old alike. Live continuous music fills the air from two stages. Bring the family and paint a pumpkin, try your hand at making your own scarecrow, have the kids face painted and enjoy the clowns and magicians. When you get hungry there will be food in every block. All day. Downtown South Boston.
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by Paulette Dean Executive Director, Danville Humane Society
Hurricane Katrina hit landfall in New Orleans on August 29, 2005. It took several days, or even weeks, to realize the utter devastation the storm caused. By midSeptember, it was apparent that residents, pet owners, and the government were not prepared to deal with beloved pets. It is believed that many people died because they refused to leave their pets behind. Emergency shelters and transportation companies did not allow pets to be transported and sheltered. Animal lovers are still horrified by the stories of pets wandering the streets. It was a defining moment in emergency preparedness, and now local governments are mandated by law to have a plan in place for companion animals. The most important thing a pet owner can do for a pet in cases of emergencies is to have a plan in place beforehand. Locate a safe place for your pets before disaster strikes. We have prepared the animal shelter for an emergency; however, do not rely solely on local animal shelters, because during emergencies they are filled beyond capacity with strays and rescued animals. A few simple steps can protect your pets: Keep up-todate identification on your dog or cat at all times. Keep current color photos of your pet, showing any distinguishing marks, with your emergency supplies. If you and your pet become separated, these photos will help identify him/her. If you know a disaster is imminent, bring your pets inside immediately! Have a grab-andgo bag filled with at least three days’ supplies for your pets.
DANVILLE
Science
Cen t er
SATURDAY ONLY!
50% Off
Everyone hopes that a Hurricane Katrina never happens again, but it is always wise to be prepared. A loving, responsible pet owner can help protect their pets with a little advance planning and preparation. SM
GALLERY ADMISSION
Old 97
Candace
This little 3 year-old girl was found as a stray. She was missing an eye, and had a horribly injured leg that had to be amputated to save her life. She is truly one of the sweetest dogs you will ever meet. Danville Humane Society,
434.799.0843
Rail Days
September 26th & 27th
Saturday 10-5pm & Sunday 11-2pm Enjoy Operating N-scale layouts, vendors, and the Estlow’s Train Exhibit
THE DANVILLE SCIENCE CENTER dsc.smv.org •
(434) 791-5160
• facebook.com/DanvilleScienceCenter
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| SEPTEMBER 2015 | SHOWCASE Magazine 33
Woman Down - Take Two
mystified Misty Brooks
Welcome to my world. Maybe you’ll find something entertaining, or maybe you’ll find something to relate to. Maybe you’ll find both. Sometimes this page won’t even make sense to you. Sometimes it won’t apply to you. And sometimes you’ll think I stalked you and wrote a story about what I saw. My world consists of five children, two dogs, two cats, and a husband. Jason is 23, Corey is 15, Spencer is 13, Tucker is 13, and Kendall is 11. Scott, my husband of four years, is still trying to figure us all out. Every day is a winding road.
Happy birthday, Tucker! • Sept 22
Do you ever look up from your path and wonder how you got to where you are? Are you ever so focused on the destination that you forget to look at the scenery? Have you ever been so distracted that you ended up somewhere else? Yeah, me too. I just looked up and don’t even know where I am. Everyone I love is near me, but I don’t understand why I’m here. What’s my purpose? I’m not even sure anymore. I’ve been moving so fast to get away from where I’ve been that I don’t even know where I am — except in the middle of nowhere. I need to be validated. Resurrected. I need to feel something besides the routine of the routine. I don’t feel alive anymore. I’m bored. And not the kind of bored where the children are at school and the laundry is caught up, the kitchen is clean, and the floors are mopped and vacuumed — because that combination doesn’t exist — but the kind where I get up every morning and go through the motions of life and there’s nothing to show for it. Now, I’m not discounting
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my children or the wonderful privilege that is parenthood. I will always have them in the foremost realm of my existence. This is about me.You know, like last month. Apparently, I’m not over myself yet so get comfortable.
very restless with myself, and unfulfilled. But I definitely won’t be going out and buying myself a brand new vehicle — especially not when I have two children who will need their own vehicles within the next two years. That would just be irresponsible!
I feel like I’ve given out of everything. I feel like I’ve reached a point where I’m only breathing, not living. I try to entertain myself with so many beach trips a year, and before long, they too will lose their magic. What am I saying? The beach will always do it for me! But still, I need to up the ante.
I think some people grab their spouse and/or their closest friends and set sail on a funfilled cruise to the Caribbean when they are in a rut. OK, there are two problems with that idea. Number one, I’m deathly afraid of water. And number two doesn’t even matter because I’m deathly afraid of water.
Look at me. I’m a blabbering mess. I’m sitting in my bed right now writing about the fact that I have nothing to write about. Not a good sign. I could just scream. Nah, that would just give me a migraine. I need a project. I need a new chapter. I need something different. Wow, I don’t need much, do I? Drastic much? Cutting my hair off occupied me for a while. Being on a low-carb diet and losing eight pounds held me over for a while. But what’s next? Is this what a midlife crisis is like? I think I may be in the preliminary stages. I feel
So, I can’t go on a cruise. And, I can’t get a new vehicle. Do I need to enroll in a knitting class? SM