Emerge Magazine May 2012

Shelby Irving Excellence in Leadership

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

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Emerge!

PUBLISHER A n d r ew S c o t t B ro ok s s c o t t @ e m e r ge va . c o m

Publisher’s Note Celebrating Excellence in Leadership

C O N T E N T E D I TO R , P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S, & SALES Selena Lipscomb s e l e n a @ e m e r ge va. c o m 434.429.9795

As I flipped through this issue of Emerge I paid special attention to the companies that advertise in our magazine. I realized that

SALES Larry Oldham l a r r y @ e m e r ge va . c o m 434.728.3713

my team and I are customers of many of them. I hope that you give each of these companies an opportunity to earn your business. These companies are the ones who are helping us keep this publication alive and who are putting their money where their mouths are. I truly believe that each of the companies advertising in our magazine is the leader in their field and deserve the opportunity to prove that to you.

Several of these companies stepped forward and sponsored our annual awards event. URW Credit Union Presents the Emerge Masquerade Gala was a tremendous success as 700 people came out to have a great time and support our community.

The support of URW Community Federal Credit Union allowed us to put on a first class event. They are a tremendous community oriented company that truly invests in our region. They have money to lend and are lending. It’s a great first stop when you are looking to finance the next phase of your life.

Danville Regional Medical Center sponsored our community organization award that was presented to Pittsylvania County Community Action, Inc. The people who make up DRMC are our friends, family, and neighbors. Not only does it offer world-class healthcare, right here in our community, but it is the second largest employer in our region. When you support DRMC, you are supporting the local community and economy.

“I am still on cloud nine about winning such a prestigious award.

To have my name mentioned in the same sentence as Mrs. Archie is such an amazing honor. I am sure there were others who were nominated for this award who are just as worthy. I am extremely honored to have been selected to be the recipient of the Ruby Archie Award.”

Highlander Restaurant, Pub, and Lodge provided the food for our event. The team at Highlander and the Courtyard Conference Centers is exceptional. You would be hard pressed to find any organization more dedicated to customer service and exceptional food. Using Highlander Restaurant or Courtyard Conference Centers to cater or host your next event should be your first, and easiest decision.

Big Sky Rents and Events provided us with the setup that allowed us to provide such a wonderful event. This company is not only easy to work with, but are also very committed to making sure that every event goes off without a hitch.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research Conference Center is the area’s finest location for any event. Not only is the facility world-class and beautiful, but there is ample parking and the team at The Institute go overboard to make sure that whatever they are hosting is the best event of its type in the area.

Lawrence Distributing is quick to help many local non-profit organizations with their events. This locally owned company distributes many of the most well-known beverages and is a true asset to our community. Pepsi Bottling Company has been a long-time sponsor of some of the area’s most well-known events, such as Festival in the Park. The team at Pepsi were a pleasure to work with.

It’s companies such as these that make things happen. It’s vital to support them when it comes time to spend your hard earned dollars. But it is also important to participate in local events when they happen, such as our annual Gala. Being a part of a community is more than just living in it. Consider this, if you live in a house with a bunch of people you are biologically related to but never speak to them or pay any attention to the other people’s needs, are you a member of the family? Really? What if you live in a house with a spouse and three step-children and you are actively engaged in your spouse’s life and the children’s lives. Are you a member of the family? Of course.

Shelby Irving

D I R E C TO R O F G R A P H I C S & D E S I G N M e l v i n Ja c o b s m e l v i n @ e m e r ge va . c o m

Being a part of something requires you to do something. It requires you to engage and interact. It requires you to invest some of yourself in the outcomes of others. And most of all, it requires you to be proud of your efforts, the efforts of others, and the results.

MEET THE WRITERS - SPRING 2012 Te r e s a Re i d M o t l ey, C h r i s t y E dwa r d s, L a s h e e ra L e e, E l a i n e C a m p b e l l , C u r t i s R .

M i l l n e r, Ta d a s h i To t t e n , W. D e r r i c k L e a , A n i t a Roy s t o n , C o l o n e l L i p s c o m b, I m m a n u e l M a r t i n , S e l e n a L i p s c o m b, Ke i s h a Ave r e t t , S g t . D a r r e l l G u n t er, H owa r d G. A d a m s, P h . D. P H OTO G R A P H E R S Catherine Hairston, Stephanie Henderson, Langston photos courtesy of William F i l p p e n , T h e r m a n E c h o l s, A l m a L a n g s, D a v i d W i l s o n p h o t o s c o u r t e s y o f V i r g i n i a Te c h A t h l e t i c s a n d G e o r ge Wa s h i n g t o n H i g h Sc hool AC C O U N T I N G C i n dy A s t i n c i n dy @ e m e r ge va . c o m e m e r g e \ i h - m u r g \ ve r b 1 . t o c o m e fo r t h i n t o v i ew 2. to come up or arise 3 . t o c o m e i n t o ex i s t e n c e E d i t o r i a l Po l i c i e s : D a n R i ve r E m e rg e ! i s a q u a r t e r l y m a ga z i ne c o ve r i n g a l l a s p e c t s o f l i f e i n t h e D a n R i ve r r e g i o n a s s e e n f ro m a n A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n p e r s p e c t i ve. We p r i n t a n d d i s t r i b u t e f r e e o f c h a r ge, d u e e n t i r e l y t o t h e b a c k i n g o f o u r a d ve r t i s e r s.

W i t h i n o u r p a ge s a p p e a r v i ew s f ro m a c ro s s t h e s o c i a l s p e c t r u m . A l t h o u g h t h e v i ew s ex p r e s s e d m ay n o t n e c e s s a r i l y r e f l e c t t h e v i ew s o f t h e p u b l i s h e r, e d i t o r, o r s t a f f, we a l l s u p p o r t t h e f r e e d o m o f ex p r e s s i o n .

I ro n i c a l l y, we r e s e r ve t h e r i g h t t o a c c e p t , reject, and edit all submissions and a d ve r t i s e m e n t s.

D a n R i ve r E m e rg e ! M a g a z i n e 753 Main Street #3 D a n v i l l e, V i r g i n i a 2 4 5 4 1 877.638.8685 w w w. e m e r ge va . c o m © 2 0 1 2 - A n d r ew B ro o k s M e d i a G ro u p - A l l R i g h t s Re s e r ve d Re p ro d u c t i o n s o r us e i n w h o l e o r i n p a r t i n a ny m e d i u m w i t h o u t w r i t t e n p e r m i s s i o n o f t h e p u b l i s h e r i s s t r i c t l y p ro h i b i t e d .

We e n c o u ra ge yo u t o ex p r e s s yo u r s e l f.

P l e a s e e m a i l t o s u b m i s s i o n s @ e m e r ge va . c o m w i t h s t o r y i d e a s, p o e t r y, f i c t i o n , a n d a ny t y p e o f c o n t e n t yo u m ay f e e l l e d t o s h a r e.

T h i s i s a l a b o r o f l o ve. Fo r t h e S u m m e r E d i t i o n , t h e d e a d l i n e fo r s u b m i s s i o n s i s J u n e 1 s t . T h e a d ve r t i s i n g d e a d l i n e i s J u n e 1 5 t h .

Anyone can criticize. Not everyone can energize. Our community needs many more energizers and I believe I’m beginning to feel a little buzz around here.

Andrew Scott Brooks PUBLISHER Shelby

Irving

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Cover photo by Catherine Hairston. Shelby Irving was presented the Ruby Archie Excellence in Leadership Award Winner at this year’s Emerge Gala.

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

What’s INSIDE

features

DAVID 14 22 FRIENDSHIP BIND 26 WILSON LOVE &

& THE DRAFT

US TOGETHER

Spring 2012 ! e g r e m E

Spring is a time of reviving, restoring and renewing. This issue we introduce programs that revive, restore and renew, with the Urban Renewal Program and Pre Serve Services.

Spring is a time of preparing for the summer fun. The 4-H Program and the Community Blessing Center have great programs starting up that will keep the kids busy this summer.

Spring is a time when we have celebrations. We celebrate NFL DRAFT pick David Wilson and two mothers share their reflections of their children’s accomplishments, while Omega men kick of fatherhood intuitive.

We also celebrate the longevity of friendship as we take a trip down memory lane with some of the alumni of classes 1937-1970 of John M. Langston High School as they prepare for their combined class reunion.

We encourage you to plant gardens this spring that will last all year long.

PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS : Peace of mind. Peace of heart. Peace of soul.

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH: Squash gossip. Squash indifference. Squash grumbling. Squash selfishness.

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE: Lettuce be faithful. Lettuce be kind. Lettuce be patient.

Lettuce really love one another.

NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS: Turnip for meetings. Turnip for service. Turnip to help one another.

TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN YOU MUST HAVE THYME: Thyme for God. Thyme for each other. Thyme for family. Thyme for friends.

-AUTHOR UNKNOWN

8

A Mother’s Reflection

10

Help Us Help You

11

Pre Serve Services

12

Male Bonding Time

13

Anita Royston

15

No Horsing Around

16

How Long is Too Long?

16

Ripples on a Pond

17

What’s Happening at FAHI

18

Danville 4-H Program

19

Community Blessings Center

20

From My Library to Yours

21

Who’s Hot?

27

URW Presents Emerge Masquerade Gala

29

Golden Friendship

30

Hill Harper

32

What You Didn’t Know About Alzheimer’s

35

Emerge Gets Fit

36

A Salute to Greatness

38

Danvillian From a Distance

41

Urban Literacy Program

42

Selenadipitous

Thank You to our Advertisers!

5 Linx Products and Services - 41 Airplay Graphics - 5 Barkhouser Ford - 31 Best Coalition - 33 Catherine Hairston Photography - 13 Chaney’s Service Center - 33 Danville Regional Foundation - 39 Danville Regional Medical Center - 2 Danville Toyota - 43 Get Fit Dan River – 34

Goodwill Industries – 15 Highlander Restaurant Lodge & Pub - 40 Inside Out - Self Esteem Services - 15 Negril - 13 Piedmont Credit Union - 41 Shop Danville Local First – 34 Stayhood Productions – 13 URW Community Federal Credit Union - 44 Woodall Automotive Network - 7 Yates Home Sales - 34

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

cover story SHELBY J. IRVING

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

A Mother’s Reflection of her Youth of the Year

by TERESA REID MOTLEY Troy Marques Demonte Reid is a 17-year-old senior at George Washington High School. He was born a very happy, joyful baby.

Everyone wanted to be around him. He would bat those eyes and women, not just girls, would melt all over him. When he was 3, my cousins introduced him to basketball. He would stand out there on the court all day and night if they would let him.

In the year of 2000 our house caught on fire, this changed Troy’s life. Troy was burned on over 40 percent of his body.

The doctors said he would not ever walk normally again. He would also grow slower than other boys his age. The kids use to tease Troy about his burns on his face and arm. He did not have friends and would cry to go to my aunt’s house.

When he was in the 8th grade, he asked if he could start going to the Boys and Girls Club. I could not afford for three of my children to go, so I had to tell him, “No.” One day the director of the Boys and Girls Club called me offered Troy a scholarship to join the club. That was a turning point for him.

During Troy’s freshman year at George Washington High School, he joined the NJROTC. Troy learned about self-esteem and confidence. He went from wearing a size 38 pants to a size 32. That summer, he went to boot camp for NJROTC and place in the top 10 percent of the graduated class. When he came back to Danville he went straight to the Boys and Girl Club

Troy Reid at the Leadership Academy

as a mentor and volunteered wherever he could. Troy’s junior year at GWHS improved his self-confidence even more.

He attended the Leadership Academy in Virginia Beach and continued working as a mentor at the Boys and Girls Club. He received the Cadet of the Year of 20102011 for NJROTC. Troy has worked very hard to improve his grade point average the last two years. He received Honor Roll for the Year in June, 2011, with an Honor Letter from GWHS. In February, 2012, Troy was named as the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year.

He received his reward with a speech about the house fire and how his life was changed. Troy fine-tuned that speech and ending up in Washington D.C. at the State Competition for the Boys and Girls Club, where he won first place and received a plaque for the Greater Washington Area State Youth of the Year for Boys and Girls Club. He will compete at the regional level for this award later this year. Troy has applied to several universities and waits anxiously to hear a response. He may be

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year this year, but he is my Youth of the Year every day. E

When he was in the 8th grade, he asked if he could start going to the Boys and Girls Club.

I could not afford for three of my children to go, so I had to tell him, “No.” One day the director of the Boys and Girls Club called me offered Troy a scholarship to join the club. That was a turning point for him.

From My House to the Governor’s Mansion

Kristen Harper-Edwards at the 2012 General Assembly

by CHRISTY EDWARDS Kristen A. Harper-Edwards is a thirteenyear old, eighth grade student at Westwood Middle School, for the past two years she has been a member of the National Junior Honor Society and Westwood Rockets girls’ basketball team. She is a percussionist in the Westwood band and she also plays the drums for her church, White Rock Mountain Hill Missionary Church. There she is a Youth Worship Leader / Member of the Praise Dance Team and Usher Board.

In the summer she enjoys attending camps, vacation Bible school sessions, volunteer projects and sharing time with her family and friends. This summer will be her third year attending 4-H Camp in which she will be training as a CIT (Counselor In Training).

Recently Kristen was nominated and invited by Senator Bill Stanley to represent the 20th District in the Virginia Senate Page/ Messenger program during the 2012 General Assembly Session.

Kristen lived in the Omni Richmond Hotel for nine weeks, where a normal day consisted of an 8am - 5pm session, dinner 5:15pm - 6:45pm, 7pm - 9pm study hall.

The curfew was 10:30pm but she would come home on the weekends.

Work duties included running errands for the senators, delivering mail, working in the post office and working the Rotunda desk in the Capitol which included answering the phone and giving directions.

Through the program Kristen took part

in many activities such as: A Special Tour of the Library of Virginia. She has toured a section that is not opened to the public which many old records and documents are stored, visited the Holocaust Museum, participated in various fundraisers for food banks, and introduced guest speakers; one special guest was a Senate employee from Sudan.

Kristen says, “The highlight of working as a Senate Page would be working the Senate floor. We encountered many political debates and issues first hand. We were also formally invited to dinner at the Governor’s Mansion.

This was a very positive life experience and

the exposure was really good. It gave me a sense of independence being away from home for nine weeks. Kind of like an early college experience. I met many new people with whom I keep in touch with. We will actually be reporting back to the Senate in April for a reconvening session for a day.

My future goal is to become a lawyer; working in the Senate is just a step toward my goal.

I would like to thank everyone who supported me in many different ways that made this experience possible.” E

Help Us Help You

Urban Renewal Coalition recently opened a community garage and has plans to open up a restaurant, gas station, and other businesses that will employ members within the Urban Renewal Coalition. Working towards helping others become self-sufficient is the goal of the organization.

Reginald Chappell has been the local president of the Urban Renewal Collation for the past three years. He says this project has been a process and labor of love for him. Chappell says that when he Reginal Chappell offers a hand to moved away from client Joe Henry Danville and lived in other cities he noticed how others worked “Help Us Help You” is not together to make their communities grow. just the motto for the When Chappell moved back to Danville he Urban Renewal Coalition, could not see that same effort. He says that he noticed the bond being broken in many it is a way of life. Stop by families due to lack of male leadership. the Community Center With the desire to make the same thing on 729 Holbrook Ave in happen within his community, Chappell Danville on any given day along with Ruben Jefferies, Tyron Grove, and Brother Maverick, joined together and you will see people of work on strengthening the black male all ages working to improve to leadership role within the city. Their first their community. When people mission was to create a neighborhood come into the organization they have to watch program in the Green Street area. take an oath that they will give back to When Chappell began this campaign for the organization’s vision. The program his city he was literally met with resistance

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Emerge! | SPRING 2011 | emergeva.com

from many people. Now it seems that many of his original “adversaries” have become his greatest supporters.

The Urban Renewal Coalition has joined with United Fellowship of Christian Church the Glorious Church of Jesus, Abdeel Temple, to form a stronger coalition to ensure that the program services are carried out. The organization offers a variety of resources and services such as: Felony Program, this program helps individuals to find employment.

Kings and Queens, a mentorship program for ten boys and girls to enhance the leadership abilities within the youth.

Citywide Praise Dance Team, allowing teens to express themselves with song and dance.

Women’s Abuse/Shelter Program, assisting women with domestic violence issues.

Recycle Go Green, encouraging the recycling and sustainability within the community. E To donate or become a part of the Urban Renewal Coalition contact by emailing Rev. Reginald Chappell at urbancoalition@yahoo.com, calling him at 434-489-9912, or stopping by 723 Holbrook Avenue in Danville, Virginia.

For more information visit: www.urbancoalition.yolasite.com

Pre Serve R

Services

ecently Emerge! had the opportunity to sit down with Glendora Dalton the Director of Program Services at Pre Serve Services to find out more about this unique program located at 901 Industrial Avenue in Danville, Virginia. The company provides transitional services to a diverse population in the Southside Virginia region. Their main goal is to empower people to “Make a Living Make the Difference,” which is also their motto.

maintain daily reports on progress and work yet to be done.

Pre Serve offers a variety of services from therapeutic services such as group counseling, anger management, substance abuse prevention, AA and NA twelve-step programs, and mentoring to vocational services: job placement, resume writing, interviewing skills, interpersonal skills,

Pre Serve Services has been around for the last ten years.

It was founded by Chuck Cooper. Glendora, a business developer by trade, partnered with Cooper in 2010. She oversees the Program Services of the organization. The partnership is fueled by their passion to support each other to reach Chuck Cooper with Pre Serve Staff one common goal, which is to empower others to do well. goal setting, internships, stipend programs, and a wide variety of possible career paths Glendora tells Emerge! that she believes and training opportunities. Educational the services they provide will be a change services are available as well, including agent to innovative ideas and modificaGED training, life skills, child support tions in Danville and the surrounding area. planning, and parenting classes.

So what exactly are these services you ask?

Pre Serve offers a unique vision and a comprehensive approach, offering transitional services in an integrated workplace setting. They identify clients’ strengths and challenges with an initial clinical assessment evaluated by board certified health professionals. An Individual Service Plan (ISP) is developed with input from family and care givers. The ISP is followed carefully by trained Pre Serve supervisors who

These services and programs are offered to adults and children, persons with disabilities, brain injury patients, the unemployed, teens at risk, special needs students, re-entry individuals, single parents, and families in crisis. The efforts for working with these populations are helping to stabilize the community. Any of the services are available to participants as well as college students that are looking for community service projects, students that

may not be college-bound but would like to improve their vocational skills. Ms. Dalton adds that when people are engaged in something that is positive and proactive it forces them by default to be good citizens.

She says that, “Education is the foundation for moving forward, period.”

Pre Serve works closely with Social Services, Community Service Board, the Department of Rehabilitative Services, the Veterans Administration, the Department of Corrections, Medicaid, Juvenile Justice, and city and county school systems to identify clients.

We asked Glendora if there were plans to expand this program into other counties and she said that is not without possibilities. She explains the Grinder in a Box, which is a franchise type of setup, where they take a smaller version of the facility programs, implement them, and are working within five business days.

Pre Serve continues to search for funding sources that will enable them to help more families. Currently they have fifteen active staff and a waiting list of over two-hundred. This proves that Danville’s needs are emerging. Glendora describes it as a cycle that is a revolving impact on all of us, one that is so explosive that it takes restorative solutions not a Band-Aid fix. She says that we as a community have had enough meetings, talked about the problems long enough, it is now time to act. Pre Serve is truly a company that shows making a living makes a difference in every person’s life. E

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

11

Male bonding Time

Photo Courtesy of Stephanie Henderson

The men of Rho Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity kicked off their fatherhood initiative with a Father & Son Banquet intended to promote the importance of positive male role models in the lives of boys.

Kenny Lewis, the banquet’s keynote speaker described the event as a tool to create a dialogue that will increase the bond of fathers and sons. He says that, “Hopefully other organizations and City officials will begin to take note of the great need for strong male role models stepping

12

up and pulling together resources to create a strategic plan that will empower males to take their rightful place not only in their homes but in their communities.�

Rho Iota Chapter member Barry Mayo sees this event and the Father & Child Basketball Camp that the fraternity will host in July as opportunities to invest in the children in the community and be more than just baby daddies. Mayo recalls that his father died when he was very young and he relied heavily on his uncles, his coaches, and male teachers for male guidance. He feels that mothers are great nurturers and they do a wonderful job raising their children especially single mothers that have

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

to do it alone, but there are some things that only a man can teach a boy.

Author Anita Royston was also a special guest during the banquet to discuss her book Our Black Fathers: Brave, Bold & Beautiful. E For more details on the Father & Child Basketball Camp, contact Barry Mayo at 434.334.0504.

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Anita Royston

Anita is a proud mother and grandmother and a respected educational consultant from Sacramento, California, who

"SOFUU #MWE 4VJUF " specializes in engaging family and %BOWJMMF 7JSHJOJB community&NBJM TUBZIPPE !HNBJM DPN involvement in the 8FC XXX TUBZIPPEQSPEVDUJPOT DPN educational environment. She 'PS ZPVS USBWFM OFFET XXX BXBZ FBTZ DPN strongly advocates for the inclusion of parents in the educational process and played an integral role as a parent advisor for the Sacramento City Unified School District. She has worked with organizations such as GEAR UP and the Roberts Family Development Center in Sacramento.

In addition to being Co-Author of Our Black Fathers, Brave,

Bold, and Beautiful and part owner operator of Five Sisters "SOFUU #MWE 4VJUF " Publishing, over the years Anita Royston has%BOWJMMF 7JSHJOJB made a mark in her local communities and has been&NBJM TUBZIPPE !HNBJM DPN active in California 8FC XXX TUBZIPPEQSPEVDUJPOT DPN political issues formerly serving on the Del Paso Heights 'PS ZPVS USBWFM OFFET XXX BXBZ FBTZ DPN School Board. Ms. Royston has developed and adeptly led numerous workshops on the importance of family/parent education. She also worked at the University of California at Davis where she received a Diversity and Affirmative Action Achievement Award for her outstanding ability to connect with the cultures of the families she served. She is a gifted connector of resources and needs for the academic and social success of students and families.

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Currently, Anita and CoAuthor Joslyn Gaines Vanderpool are collecting short stories for their upcoming Anthologies, Our Black Mothers, Brave, Bold, and Beautiful and Challenges, Truths and Triumphs of People of Color.

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professional photographer

For Guidelines for submission please visit: www.braveboldbeautifulseries.com Contact: anita@braveboldbeautifulseries.com Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

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David Wilson

by COLONEL LIPSCOMB It seems like the American dream to sore into fame and fortune, as well as to do well and give back to your

hometown community, retire from and illustrious career, and ride off into the sunset to pursue other personal interest. With the NFL in his view David Wilson is one step closer to making his dreams come true.

David was part of the two percent of college football players to enter the NFL draft, for a chance to join one of the thirty two NFL teams within their football career.

Wilson decided to skip his senior season at Virginia Tech after rushing for a school-record of 1,709 yards and earning ACC Player of the Year honors in 2011.

That decision paid off for him during the 2012 NFL Draft. In the last pick of the first round the Super Bowl Championship team the New York Giants selected the Virginia Tech running back and Danville Native David Wilson.

We are all very well aware of David’s abilities, his diligence and dedication to personal training, and how it has brought him this far.

Most importantly we must mention that David did not do too bad in the classroom either. His academic record is just as impressive as his football stats. His academic ability will be a great access to handle life off the field, such as the media, social pressures, and new found fortune and fame.

Kenny Lewis Sr. is not only David’s Virginia Tech Alumni but he has also had the experience of playing in the NFL, he has this advice to offer to David.

• Surround yourself with good people.

• Listen to your parents and keep them involved.

• Use Godly wisdom and associate yourself with people with Godly business sense to guide and encourage you.

• Be conservative and strategic in your financial plan.

• Don’t forget home, support the community.

• Most of all, PUT GOD FIRST IN EVERYTHING YOU DO! The newest member to the New York Giants will have a lot of family, friends and fans from Virginia cheering from the sidelines as David blazes through the defense on his way to the end zone with the same smile that we know and love today.

Photos courtesy of Virginia Tech Athletics and George Washington High School

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Best wishes to you David Wilson as you live out your dreams and become Danville’s next NFL legend. BE SAFE! E

No Horsing Around

Bruce A Griffin II is an internationally famous

equestrian. An “equestrian” is an expert in the art and science of training and getting the best riding talents from pedigreed horses.

Bruce has the distinction of being the first American, (making him the first African American) invited to show and display Friesians before the royal court in the Netherlands. He also received a special citation from Queen Beatrix in 2001.

Bruce has won numerous local, state, regional, national, and international awards for his horsemanship with Arabian, Friesian, and other prominent breeds of horses.

He and his wife Staci, an acclaimed equestrian in her own right, have a thriving horse farm in Gretna, where they board and train horses for the rich and famous, as well as the not so rich, not so famous.

Bruce and Staci are in constant demand to turn rough horses into diamond horses. They run clinics and their client list is extensive.

When the young and not so young people meet Bruce and hear his story they know that there are no limits to the successes they can have if they follow their dreams and keep working hard.

Learn more about where Bruce is today by checking out his website at www.griffinsporthorses.net

“Employ your time in improving yourself by other men’s writings so that you shall come easily by what others have labored hard for.”

-Socrates Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

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How Long is too Long?

The Impact of Negative African-American Women Images in the Media

by LaSHEERA LEE

As a child, I remember my family sitting around the living room waiting for an AfricanAmerican to appear on television.

I want you to flashback to TV land.

Remember the days when you were eager to see a positive image of an African-American woman on television. I remember being excited to watch Dianne Carroll strolling her way to Dynasty. Who can forget watching the television when love-struck Dwayne commandeered Whitley from the unsuspecting congressman from the altar?

Oh, do you remember when Janet Jackson rocked the video Control on BET? Yes, I know you are smiling or laughing when you think about those television episodes.

Those are memorable moments that you can rewind and watch over and over in your mind.

Now, I want you fast forward to the present state of African-American images of women on television. Yes, I am a going there. Now,

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ripples on a pond

by ELAINE CAMPBELL

One of the things I use to enjoy doing as a youngster, and still do, is taking a stroll beside a pond or a lake. Of course, the stroll wouldn’t be a stroll unless you happened to throw some rocks into the water, just to see the rippling effect of the waves.

Once the rock hits the water, the wave begins in one spot, one wave after the other, growing wider and wider.

Our thought today comes from the rippling effect of the waves created simply by doing something to cause a repetitive motion or action, as a result of what was initially done.

What if we could be like that simple rock, starting the rippling effect for something good? Let’s stop to think. Maybe someone around you needs a helping hand. If you were to help, that would start a good rippling effect. Others just might catch on and lend you a hand. Will you start the ripples where you are, in your perspective place?

I want to make this clear. I have watched plenty of drama ridden reality television. Therefore, I am not an innocent bystander in this game.

However, I want you follow me through my evolution process.

One Sunday evening I was on the reality television stroll. I was watching my usual hit list. Each of the episodes involved women of color yelling, screaming, and fighting. It was at that moment that I had an epiphany; is this how the rest of society views us? I wondered what impact the shows were having on our youth?

Well, there is one way to find out. I have decided to ask the people. Yes, that means I am coming to you for answers. Stay tuned for the tour. E

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

If we’re honest and look deeply at the people around us, I guarantee you’ll find someone who could use a smile. Do we ever take time to share a heart-felt word of encouragement? Do you ever ask yourself, what can I do to show others that I really care without asking for something in return?

One of the ways to create a happy, unselfish, and successful life is to make life better for someone else.

We can never assume that those about us “have it going on,” one hundred percent of the time. Again, would you like to be that rock that causes good to come to others?

Remember, our ripples can be positive or negative.

Let’s focus on the positive. Come out of your comfort zone. Invest in the lives of others. You may be surprised that the same ripples you create for others may very well come back to you. E

What’s Happening at FAHI

by CURTIS R. MILLNER

The first fundraising effort for the Fayette Area Historical Initiative was a production of the play God’s Trombones

by James Weldon Johnson, (18711938), a noted African-American writer, songwriter, American consul in Venezuela and Nicaragua, executive secretary of the NAACP, and professor of creative literature at Fisk University. The

play consists of seven negro sermons in verse or “folk sermons” that were portrayed by local preachers and actors, some of which were: Fred Motley of Danville, Minister Matthew Brown of the First Baptist Church of Martinsville, Reverend Gerald Holman of the United House of Prayer of Martinsville, Minister Tomika Grogan of First Baptist Martinsville, Minister Anthony Mills of Joyland Temple, and special guest Jeremy Harris, who is a professional actor, originally from this area but now residing in California. The sermons are titled: “The Creation,” “The Prodigal Son,” “Noah Built the Ark,” “Let My People Go,” “The Crucifixion,” “Go Down Death-A Funeral Sermon,” and “Judgment Day.” James Weldon Johnson states: “the old-time negro preacher is rapidly passing. I have tried sincerely to fix something of him”.

The play was presented at the Albert Harris Elementary School, Martinsville, auditorium on April 27th and 28th at 7:00 p.m. each night. All of the proceeds from this play will be used for the support of the FAHI African American Museum & Culture Center.

FAHI is also in the process of writing Volume 2 of its book, African American First and other prominent people of Martinsville & Henry County and Surrounding Area. Anyone of the “surrounding area” (Danville, Martinsville, Pittsylvania, Henry & Patrick Counties) may submit names of individuals for consideration.

Copies of this book are on sale at the FAHI Museum & Culture Center for $42.00, with an additional $3.00 for mailing. This is a beautiful hardback book, in color, and will make a wonderful historical reference book for your home, church, or office. Once again, all proceeds from the sale of this book go to support the FAHI Museum & Culture Center.

We are soliciting donations of $1,000.00 from interested individuals to reach a goal of $100,000.00.

These funds will be used on the renovations for our new location, the former Imperial Savings & Loan Association building. All contributions are tax-exempt and contributor’s names will be engraved on our “Wall of Fame” in the Museum.

We will again be sponsoring the “June German Ball” on June 19th, 7.00 p.m. at the Martinsville National Guard Armory, located on Commonwealth Boulevard, Martinsville, Virginia. The cost is $50.00 for individuals and $85.00 for couples. This will include dinner and a live band. Tickets for this event are available at FAHI, 40 West Main Street, Martinsville, Virginia, 24112. E For more information about the FAHI contact: Curtis R. Millner, Sr., FAHI Board Chairman at (276) 638-7503

Visit FAHI

Fayette Street Museum was created to collect, preserve and interpret African-American experiences and community life in Martinsville/Henry County. This is achieved with the use of displays and exhibits to highlight history and culture.

Exhibits showcase more than 100 years of AfricanAmerican history on Fayette Street. The exhibits, “Walking down the street what do you see?” and “Where we were...where are we today?” show 2 miles of road along Fayette St. While traveling the 2 mile stretch, you will see black owned businesses, doctor’s offices, retail stores, and historic buildings.

See black history exhibits on the local as well as the national level. Photo displays of events, educators, doctors, businesses and churches are all here. Stop in today, you may see some familiar faces.

Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Thursday 11 am - 4 pm, Friday - Saturday By Appt (Groups Only) Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

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4-H

Danville

Program

by TADASHI TOTTEN What is 4-H? 4-H is the youth development education program of Virginia Cooperative Extension. 4-H is rich with learning experiences where young people gain knowledge in leadership skills by participating in various programs available to youth. Through 4-H, young people are encouraged to take part in a variety of activities that emphasize 4-H’s “learning by doing” philosophy of youth development.

Developing Confident Leaders Standing for head, heart, hands, and health, 4-H uses more than a century of experience in youth development programming to build strong, confident leaders.

Young people in the 4-H community learn leadership, citizenship, and a vast array of life skills that benefit them for the rest of their lives. Through school-based, afterschool, and community clubs as well as camp settings, 4-H members pledge to build a better community, country, and world.

Ready for the Future 4-H participants are youth, ages 5 to 19, taking part in programs provided as the result of actions planned and initiated by Extension personnel in cooperation with volunteers. With a direct connection to research at Virginia’s land-grant universities, Virginia Tech and Virginia State University, 4-H is the first experience many young people have with higher education. 4-H is characterized as being community-centered, volunteer-led, Extension-staff supervised,

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4-H Campers rock climbing

research-based, home- and familyoriented, publicly and privately funded, and responsive to change.

living for my club, my community, my country, and my world.”

The mission of 4-H is to assist youth, and adults working with those youth, to gain additional knowledge, life skills, and attitudes that will further their development as self-directing, contributing, and productive members of society.

When reciting the pledge, members raise their right hand to their forehead when they say, “my head to clearer thinking.”

They lower their hand to their hearts as they say, “my heart to greater loyalty.” At the line, “my hands to larger service,” they extend their hands in front of them, palms upward. At the last line, they stand at attention with their hands at their sides.

4-H Motto and Pledge

Join Us

The 4-H motto: “To Make the Best Better.”

Virginia 4-H welcomes you to get a glimpse of what 4-H is all about. Explore this website to see what 4-H’ers are up to, or contact the Danville Extension office to find out how you can learn about all that 4-H has to offer. E

4-H Mission

The 4-H Club Pledge “I pledge ... My Head to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty, My Hands to larger service and My Health to better

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

Community Blessing Center & Fellowship Hall of Milton, Inc. What does Danville 4-H offer to youth?

(Located in the Kate J. Hope Educational Institute)

by W. Derrick Lea, CEO

Danville 4-H offers various programs and clubs for ages (5- 19) in the following areas: • Careers and Consumer Education • Citizenship • Communications and Expressive Arts • Family Sciences • Food, Nutrition, and Health • Leadership and Personal Development • Natural Resources and Environmental Education • Plants, Soils, and Entomology • Science and Technology

4-H Delivery Modes • 4-H Community Clubs • 4-H Project Clubs • 4-H Special Interest Groups • 4-H After School Clubs • 4-H School Enrichment Programs

For More Information about the 4-H Program contact: Tadashi C. Totten 4-H Extension Agent-Danville City Virginia Cooperative Extension 128 Third Avenue Danville, VA 24540 (434) 799-6558

Photo courtesy of Community Blessing Center

The Community Blessing Center completed its third summer camp program for the children of Caswell County and surrounding areas in 2011. The camp has been a huge success and this is evident by the increased attendance each year of operation. The most recent sixweek camp adventure supported fifty children.

The participants enjoyed swimming lessons, horseback riding, field experiences such as visits to the museum, and instructional support in reading and math, just to name a few. All of these activities took place under the watchful eye of instructors that found ways to incorporate learning into each day. In addition to the planned learning activities, the children were fed a nutritious breakfast and lunch. The parents especially appreciated this responsibility being provided by the Center, and some rely on the meals provided by the Center each day.

The Community Blessing Center brought its third summer camp program to a close in mid-August of 2011, and is operating the after school program again this school year. The program is supported again by the Caswell County Public School System, which provides transportation to the Center from school, the Caswell Parish and the Danville church-based tutorial program. A snack is provided to each participant as well as a hot dinner, after the children are given instructional support in the completion of their homework assignments for that day. The Community Blessing Center staff provides transportation home for each child whose parent is unable to pick them up from the facility.

The Community Blessing Center is desirous of continuing these programs into the future, and the leadership is working hard to craft ideas that create funding for the operation of these programs. Various foundations and private individuals have made it possible for the Center to function for the past five years, and the austere budget has ensured an efficiency of operation. Each year staff members volunteer ten to twenty hours each week simply to provide our children an opportunity to experience some of the advantages the economically challenged are unable to find.

The Community Blessing Center Leadership will continue to provide a resource for the children and the surrounding community. The support of the community along with various foundations are essential to the programs we care to provide at the Community Blessing Center. E

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From My Library to Yours

by LaSHEERA LEE

Im m

l’s-

-

Someone Bad and Something Blue

a n ue PICK

by Miranda Parker

This book takes you on a dance and never lets you sit

by Suzetta Perkins down! Don’t judge a book by The characters in the book outwardly appear its cover is the accurate way to describe Angel Crawford. to have it all. However “all” is not what it The beautiful single mom is appears. a bounty hunter/sleuth that takes down all prisoners.

Finally, Denise feels that she has all the However, she runs into a few pieces of her puzzled life together. She is obstacles along her path. marrying her ex-lover. Well, some people are a little curious that he happens to be the cousin of her ex-husband. Denise is feeling Her sister Ava, who also happens to be a pastor of too good to let the gossip bring her down. a mega church, wants her However, there is a health concern on the to find a more “suitable” horizon that will unravel her puzzle. occupation. However, she is Mr. and Mrs. Micheal Brossard are the toast quick to forget that Angel’s of Atlanta. That is why people put up with occupation helped her get Mona’s constant meddling. However, there cleared from murder charges. is one person who is trying to meddle in the Her mother, a typical Atlanta Socialite, wants her to settle Brossard’s marriage. Dr. Brooks sets her down with the perfect man. sights high. Will she be the upset to their happy balance?

Now, let’s talk about the Harold, Denise’s ex-husband, is married to perfect man. Everyone thinks it is the Pastor Justus Morgan.

Denise’s friend Rachel. They are in love.

However, will their love be able to weather He is kind, considerate, and the storms of Denise returning to A-Town? patient. However, a rugged U.S Marshall Maxim may have This book teaches you the lesson of other ideas of the perfect man forgiveness, friendship, and love. Sometimes for Angel. the path you take on a journey leaves you the familiar place called home.

At the End of the Day

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Snitch: A Novel

by Booker T. Mattison

The book is a marriage of street and church. Snitch reminds me when Donnie and Marie would sing I am a little bit country and I am a little bit rocking roll; the book is the best of both worlds. It has the action needed to keep you engaged; it also messages that keeps you thinking.

Unsigned Hype

by Booker T. Mattison

Normally I just hack my mom’s page but this issue I decided to jump on Mrs. LaSheera’s page; since she introduced me to Mr. Mattison I didn’t think she would mind. I just want to encourage Andre is a young man who is kids my age and teenagers search of himself. He witnesses a to read Unsigned Hype by crime that crumbles his world as Booker T. Mattison. I he knows it. The no snitch code on had the opportunity to the street reigns supreme in certain meet Mr. Booker and neighborhoods. Andre makes a that was so COOL! This choices and decisions that cause book was so good that turmoil within his being and the I could not put it down cast of characters. once I started reading it.

If you like music you will His son’s mother, Sandra, wants really connect with this to make moves in her lives. She book. This book is very has a found a lover like no other, encouraging and helps God. Therefore, the moves may signal the end of their on/off again motivate you to follow your dreams. It also can relationships. get you a few Accelerated The book also deals with gang and Reader points. This book street life. However, you will not gets a HIGH FIVE, find any profanity or overly profane TWO THUMBS UP moments. What you will find are FROM ME. tales of love, soul searching, and redemption.

Who’s Hot? AN INTERVIEW

by LaSHEERA LEE Booker T. Mattison is a professor, author, filmmaker, and motivational speaker. As passionate as he is about his many crafts, he is even more passionate about reaching African-American males.

EM: How did you get started as an author?

BM: Actually, my agent approached me with the idea of turning some of my ideas into a book. It was a natural transition for me.

EM: Your books are breaking new ground. I refer to them as street gospel.

Were you deliberately trying to create a new genre?

BM: Well, I appreciate the compliment.

However, I don’t see myself as treading new territory. I simply try to craft the best story at that moment.

EM: Your book Snitch, tells a tale of a young African-American male caught in a mess who learns to seek redemption.

How important is it for you to have a message in your books.

BM: It is extremely important to me to have characters with flaws. However, they are able to redeem their actions and live their lives as productive citizens.

EM: Unlike so many other works of fiction, your main characters are essentially African-American males.

Is it your deliberate plan to showcase African-American males?

BM: Definitely, I started off wanting to be a hip-hop producer. I wanted to be able to motivate and educate young black males.

I just found through films and movies, I can also give them positive and motivating stories. E

Booker T. Mattison will be making his way back to Danville on May 4th for a workshop hosted by the Round Table Readers Literary Group. For more information contact Lasheera Lee at 434-489-9454

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Love & Friendship

bind us together

Reflections from students and teachers from the classes of 1937-1970 Photos courtesy of William Fillpen, Alam Langs, and Therman Echols

Therman Echols 2009, 2012 Class Reunion President

Friday we would have an assembly that would teach us how to act in public.

This is a wonderful time of celebration it is just one big family reunion. The love for Langston brings us together every three years and reenergizes us to continue on with life’s journeys and struggles.

We always looked up to seniors as underclassmen. Then one day it dawned on me that I was a senior about to graduate I did not know what I was going to do. I was happy and sad both at the same time.

One interesting thing about Langston was the teachers. We had teachers that wanted us to excel. Many of them had gone up North to get their education, attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities and desired for all of us as students to do the same. We had the best teachers. Every

Verneita D. Harris, First Vice-Chairperson

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My fond memories of John Mercer Langston High School as a freshman in 1970 are brought to life every time that we have the opportunity to sing our Alma Mater. It’s just something about

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

1937-1970 Langston High School

remembering the times, the everlasting friendships, and the love that we shared for our high school. It sometimes makes you shiver with pride…..and often tears of joy in just remembering the people and the times……the good and the bad…..just gets right there…. over a little bit….. yep, right in that corner of your eye!! You know fellow Langstonians, I guess there is just nothing else like your own fond memories of John Mercer Langston High School with Mrs. Vera Murphy, Mr. Ned Wright, and our entire school family!

Nancy Chaney The class reunions mean everything to me. Seeing and fellowshipping with old family and friends that you have not seen in forty or fifty years is just wonderful. A well planned and thought-out reunion draws everyone back home. We start planning in September of the year prior to the reunion. I just get so excited talking about the reunion because it truly is just a blessing.

If you live in Danville and you are not bed ridden or in the hospital you need to make it to the reunion. I have only missed one reunion since we started back in the 80’s and that was because my children sent me on a cruise. I just cannot wait to see everyone.

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Avicia Thorpe We wanted all the students to do well and be successful in everything that they do and it was our duty to ensure that they were prepared.

Kirby Wright When we first started having the reunions we had them every five years. Then, because we had such a great response we began having them every three years. I served as President for eight years and one thing that fascinated me and still does it that each reunion we have people that it is their first time attending the joint reunion.

The reunion is a great opportunity for those that live out of town to come home and see how Danville has progressed. The City of Danville and other community agencies have always been very supportive.

We do more than just meet and greet we give back to the community. The reunion has a scholarship fund for Danville Community College called the Vera Murphy Scholarship to assist local students with their college endeavors. There is also a scholarship in honor of Mrs. Avicia Thorpe. We just have a good time.

Doris Wilson I was a student then I came back as a teacher after college. As a teacher we believed that our students could learn and excel. We had high expectations for our self and them. We expected them to be first 1st place in whatever competition they entered be it academics or athletics. The students knew we cared and their attitude was to perform. I was so pleased to teach at Alma Mater.

Doris Kelly I attended John Mercer Langston High School from 1964-68, my freshmen to senior year. I graduated after four years.

During our senior year, three weeks before graduation day, it was mandatory for each of us to attend a Commencement event

The reunion agenda

Friday Night........................................Social Hour Saturday...............................................Day time: Private Pep Rally

Evening: Special Program &

Dinner, Entertainment: “Langston Alum’s Got Talent,”Dancing with

DJ Lemon Lyme as the Guest DJ

held in our honor. The girls had to wear all white- dress, dress shoes and stockings.

The boys wore dressed black slacks, white shirt, black tie and dressed shoes only. This event celebrated all the accomplishments the students did during their senior or high school years. It was always held at the same local black historic church, Loyal Baptist on Holbrook Street.

Curtis Strader Our administrators and teachers that cared so much about us, caused us to have a fondness for education. The close nit neighborhoods, Almegro, Luck Town, Dan’s Hill, Coleman Town, Poor House Hill, caused us to care for one another.

There was a requirement to do our work.

I recall as a senior I was required to take World Literature and I did not want to take it because, I hated World Lit. One day Mrs. Thorpe met me in the hall and she said “Mr.Strader, you have already taken French and Spanish and passed with high marks, I have spoken to your family and I have signed you up for World Literature first and second semester, and I expect you to pass with flying colors.” And I did.

“You are going places and will do things” are the words that Coach Hank Allen said to me one day on the football field. My father died when I was only five years old,

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and I needed to hear that from someone that I knew took an interest in me. I ended up going to college on a scholarship.

Dorothy Thornton The connection is like no other. Our teachers did not let us falter at all. They were devoted to excellence and instilled that in all of us. The pride we feel for our school keeps us coming back reunion after reunion. We have a representative from each class that is part of the planning process. I think we just endured so much together it made our bond closer.

Penny Coleman Hughes When we attend the combined class reunion it is like attending a family reunion.

The teachers were like mothers and fathers to some of us. Our fellow students were not just friends they were family. That is what we are; one big family. I enjoy being my class representative and assisting with the planning process so that everyone can come and enjoy their self. I get excited talking about the reunion.

The Langston Alma Mater Proudly we sing of halls Where our swift feet have trod, Seeking to bring to light The wondrous gifts of God, Where in thy chambers We have sought success to gain, Langston, dear Langston May thy spirit ever reign.

Oh! Pride of our hearts May we forever be, Guided by spirit true To thee, to thee, We cherish thy precepts, High, noble and true Langston, dear Langston We sing, we sing We sing of you.

Written by Edith M. Whiteman Langston Class of 1939 William Flippen Somebody call my momma!

Band in the early 1960’s was big. One Friday night, the Band Director, Mr. William Grasty left the band in the stands to go back to the bandroom. Our band played classical music, but when the director left, we let it all hang out. We had the stands rocking as we ad libbed.

Suddenly Mr. Grasty came back and ordered us all back to the bandroom.

“Who is the leader of this band of hooligans?” he screamed. No one answered. He began giving out demerits which would lower our grades. As I was president of the band, I was given 15 demerits which dropped my grade from 100 (A) to 94 (B+). I went to the office when report cards came out and asked Ms. Murphy to be relieved from the band. I tried to explain to her, Mr. Grasty never caught anyone and it wasn’t fair.

She looked me in the eye and said, “Do you want me to call your momma?”

Humbled, but fearfully I returned to the band class. I later went on to earn all state band honors, played in Yankee Stadium, Lincoln Center in N.Y. and D.C. stadium with the college band and was part of the first African American Band to be named National ROTC Band of the year.

Thanks Ms. Murphy.

Congratulations to the Class of 1962 as they celebrate 50 years!

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Shelby J. Irving Ruby Archie Excellence in Leadership

Award Winner Battalion Chief /Fire Marshal Shelby J. Irving, was the recipient of this year’s Ruby Archie Excellence in Leadership Award during this year’s Emerge Awards Gala.

The award is named in memory of Danville’s first AfricanAmerican female Mayor Ruby Archie. It is awarded to an African American that exhibits a high level of integrity and dedication to the community and brings honor to their profession.

Shelby Irving grew up in Danville, Virginia, she is the daughter of Rev. Isaac J. Irving Sr. and the late Deacon Leroy and Deaconess Eliza Totten, and she is the youngest of seven children.

Shelby graduated from Tunstall High School in 1979. After high school Shelby attended Ferrum College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Leisure Services.

Three years after returning to Danville, Irving decided to go in a different direction with her career. Hired by the Danville Fire Department in 1987, she became the first female firefighter hired in the city. Nine years later, her abilities and dedication earned her the 1996 Outstanding Young Fire Fighter of the Year honor. Ten years later, she was honored by American Legion Post 1097 as the 2006 Fire Fighter of the Year. Already holding a four-year degree, she was encouraged during this ten-year period to enroll in DCC’s Fire Science curriculum, which would mean a five-year program during off hours with the Fire Department.

Irving has been with the Fire Department 25 years, and held the position as fire fighter for 16 years at Fire Station #3 on Industrial Avenue. In 2007 she became Danville’s first African American Fire Marshal/ Battalion Chief, an accomplishment brought about by years of hard work, dedication to skill building and perseverance. She has volunteered with National Night Out, was honored as the Bank of America Neighborhood Champion 2005, and has been Treasurer and Finance Secretary for 17 years at Jones Chapel Baptist Church where she is also a Co- Advisor—Youth Leader.

On December 7, 2010, she graduated from Leadership Southside Class 17. Shelby is the host of the local television show Fire Watch on Comcast River City Channel 10.

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“I am still on cloud nine about winning such a prestigious award.

To have my name mentioned in the same sentence as Mrs. Archie is such an amazing honor. I am sure there were others who were nominated for this award who are just as worthy. I am extremely honored to have been selected to be the recipient of the Ruby Archie Award.” ~ Shelby Irving An avid supporter of her colleges, Irving not only serves on Ferrum’s Alumni Board, she is the President of DCC’s Alumni Council, and serves on Averett University’s Advisory Board of the Nursing program.

Shelby was honored in May of 2010 as one of the “Outstanding Alumni of Danville Community College.”

Also Shelby was the cover person of the eVince Magazine (The Voice of Discovery) in October, 2011.

“I have been very fortunate and blessed to obtain this position, and I credit all my success to being surrounded by good family, friend’s, church members, and coworkers but most of all God has kept me and guided my footsteps daily.”

PRESENTS

Over 700 people joined the Emerge! Staff at the Institute Conference Center for a night of dancing and dining, as we celebrated our 2nd annual Emerge! Awards Masquerade Gala presented by URW Community Federal Credit Union. Other event sponsors included Danville Regional Medical Center, Highlander Restaurant and Lounge, Big Sky Rents and Events, Pepsi Cola Bottling Company, and Lawrence Distributing.

Gala goers came dressed to impress and danced to the sounds of nationally known “DJ Fine$$e” and local band Flowidity.

Guests also enjoyed performances by Catina Jones, Kevin “UnitynMime” Kernodle and Vashtish Cooper as Aruba “Tommy” Bennett formally from the Tom Joyner Morning show kept the crowd laughing as emcee of the evening.

URW Community Federal Credit Union Humanitarian of the Year This Year’s Nominees: Sylvester Jennings, Ralph Polk Sr., David L Wilson Jr, Eric Deaton, Don Nodtvedt, Kimberly Walker, John Fisher, Dr. Joyce Glaise, Pastor Delaware Clark and Pastor Cecil Bridgeforth Sr. The winner: Eric Deaton - Danville Regional Medical Center Danville Regional Medical Center Organization of the Year Nominees: NAACP Danville and Pittsylvania County, SCLC, Danville Voters League, Pittsylvania County Community Action, URW Community Federal Credit Union, Boys and Girls Club of Danville and Chatham, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Danville, Links Inc., Project R.I.S.E, Feeding the Children The winner: Pittsylvania County Community Action To view more pictures of this year’s gala, Visit www.emergeva.com or Like Us on Facebook Photos Provided by Catherine Hairston and Stephanie Henderson

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PRESENTS

golden friendship

Have you ever had a friend that could complete your sentences? Knew what you were thinking before you could finish the thought. How about a friend that would just laugh with you until you both forgot what was so funny? Well these six sassy ladies know all too well of what I am talking about.

by SELENA LIPSCOMB

They are known as, “The Golden Girls” but don’t get them confused with the ladies from the television sitcom. Their name is a representation of a golden friendship that has endured long into their golden years. Their friendship spans over sixty years. It began when they entered the first grade together. Since that time they have shared a lot of birthdays, proms, graduations, anniversaries, but the celebration that they have enjoyed most of all has been retirement. A milestone that has allowed them to spend more time doing what they love together and that is travel. If fact they stay on the go so much that I had to conduct separate telephone interviews in order to track them down. After talking to the first three I knew exactly what the last three would say.

Let me set the stage for you. I called each one within minutes from the other so no one knew the question I asked the other, and they did not have time to call each other to prep their answers. I asked each lady the exact same question and almost verbatim I received the same answer from each one. It was almost as if they shared the same brain. I promise I did not change any of their words. This is going to shock you.

What has allowed you all to stay friends for so long?

Responses: Clara “Candy” Lipscomb “We have a charm that we wear that says “Sisters Forever” and that is what we are. We have a common bond that started in first grade and retirement has been like a magnet for us. We just LOVE each other. We got married, had our different life experiences, but we always remained friends and now that we are all retired we are free to travel and just have fun together. We have a genuine love for each other. We have NEVER had a disagreement between us because we have a mutual respect for each other and we accept each other’s ways. We just complement each other.”

Left to right: Patricia Allen, Pricilla Wilson, Clara Lipscomb, Patricia Malloy, Eunice Jackson, Deloris Davis (Lottie Coleman not pictured) Pricilla Wilson “Love among one another has been the most important thing. We have bond that has never been broken, a mutual respect for one another. We are true sisters; we are closer than most biological sisters. We just love being together.”

respected each other’s privacy and we were not in and out of each other’s houses. We were just all thankful for retirement, so we can all travel. We have so much fun together, sometimes we do not even to leave our hotel room. “

Eunice Jackson “Love for each other. We believe in each other. We are dedicated to each other. We look out for each other. It has always been that way. It is that simple.”

The Golden Girls also have an honorary sister Lottie C. Coleman that adds to their love, laughter, and travel.

Patricia Allen “We have been friends since we were little children. Some of us moved away, but the friendship has always been there. The bond can never be broken. It has just been a lifelong friendship, we sang in the choir together, played every day after school together. They are just my sisters.”

together. E

Patricia “Pete” Malloy “It’s a love thing. We agree to disagree. We make discussions together.

We have raised our families together. Our bond has just always been there. I really wish younger generations would do more to create bonds like this. I named us, ‘The Golden Girls,’ not because of the T.V. show Golden Girls, we are nothing like them. For us The Golden Girls is about our age, friendship, health, and our long love for each other for so many years.”

The love we need as sisters

Deloris “Lo Lo” Davis “We share the same interest. We have a genuine love and respect for each other. Even after marriage we have

These ladies are living life like it is golden

“The Golden Girls”

by Patricia ”Pete” Malloy

Friends forever over the years The joy and laughter we share All on one accord Almost as if time stood still Remembering the past, the joys and the spills Today we enjoy Yesterday’s good memories Tomorrow we can’t say But for now The Golden Girls are here to stay Love, Joy, Happiness

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Hill Harper

Spends the Day in Danville

Selena Lipscomb and Hill Harper / Photos by Catherine Hairston

Hill Harper, star of the hit television show CSI:NY recently spent the day in Danville.

Harper was the last speaker for the Danville Regional Foundation and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce 20112012 Speaker Series. Harper motivated the crowd as he discussed the story behind writing his books Letters to a Young Sister, and Letters to a Young Brother, both books are what Harper calls mentoring to the youth on paper. The books were part of the Community Read, a way for people from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds in the Dan River Region to come together. Harper does more than just mentor on paper he has a personal mission to help boys and girls become a success story. He has launched the nonprofit Manifest Your Destiny, which is dedicated to helping underserved

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Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

youth, and is also a spokesperson for Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research where the event was held was not Harper’s only stop while in Danville.

His first stop was the Danville Boys and Girls Club where he spent time empowering the youth to set and reach their goals, before heading to the IALR. The CSI:NY television star, joined Danville residents at the Obama campaign office for a community meeting and discussion. As the Obama campaign in Virginia launched “African Americans for Obama.” African Americans for Obama had a launch statewide, but Harper is only speaking in the Danville campaign office. E

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Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

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what you didn’t know about

Alzheimer’s Disease

by KEISHA AVERETT

Changes in memory that affect daily life, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and misplacing things may sound like ordinary problems but could be the early detections of something deeper, Alzheimer’s Disease. As one of the fastest growing

health challenges of the 21st century, Alzheimer’s Disease does not only impact its patients but families, friends, caregivers, and healthcare. Millions of Americans, about one in every eight adult aged sixtyfive and older, have been diagnosed with the disease. That number is twice as likely in the African-American community and one and a half times as likely in Hispanics. What this says is that the longer you live the more probable it is that you will

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contract Alzheimer’s Disease or come in contact with someone who does.

With those alarming numbers, it is no surprise that the Alzheirmer’s Association is the eleventh largest non-profit in America.

The Central and Western Virginia Chapter, which includes Danville, is one of the the largest divisions.

The Mission To free the world of the Alzheimer’s Disease through research, care, and support is the vision of the Alzheimer’s Association.

It is their mission to strive for ways to do just that. Research in this field is heavily supported by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Eleven percent of its funding goes into individual studies done all around the country. Funds also allow the Association to be a part of a consortium, along with Europe,

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

leading research in DNA/Genetics, Imaging Diagnosis, and Immuno-therapy-vaccines.

Increasing awareness and educating others about the disease is another mission of the Alzheimer’s Association. Knowing the ten warning signs is crucial as the the rate of diagnosis increases. “Every sixtyeight seconds there is a new diagnosis,” says Sue Friedman, President/CEO of the Central and Western Virginia Chapter.

That is why she believes it is their duty to be present in communities, churches, civic, and college environments spreading the knowledge about Alzheimer’s.

The third mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to provide programs and services for people with the disease, as well as those who care for them. In addition, they provide informational videos, MedicAlert

Ways to help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s is to eat a heart-healty diet, stay active through exercise, remain socially active, and continue to learn and stimulate the brain

safe return, hotlines and websites where questions and concerns can be answered by professionals and a host of other services.

What You Should Know As earlier stated, Alzheimer’s Disease is a fast-growing issue in the health of those sixty-five years or older.

Correlations between cultural trends and Alzheimer’s that have led to prevalence of the disease in but not limited to, African-Americans relate heavily to lifestyle.

Ways to possibly prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s is to eat a heart-healty diet, stay active through exercise, remain socially active, and continue to learn and stimulate the brain. E

To learn more about Alzheimer’s and how you can become a part of the solution, you can call 1-800-272-3900 toll free or (434)7923700 ext. 237 in Danville. You can also visit the website www.alz.org or email jane. massie@alz.org locally.

34 Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

Emerge gets fit

by Sgt. Darrell Gunter 4th Recon BN I&I Staff-USMC

Emerge Work Out It is spring time ladies and gentleman and everyone is busy rushing into the gym and hitting the walking tracks to shed those winter inches.

When starting a workout Sgt. Darrell Gunter regiment it is important that you have a great meal plan that will help you burn those calories. As always check with your physician before starting any workout or meal plan to ensure that they met your nutritional needs.

You may reach me at guntgunz@yahoo.com for advice on workout/meal plans. E

spring meal plan

0800- 4 boiled eggs (1 whole and 3 just the white) and a small bowl of oatmeal or just 6-8 boiled egg whites.

1030- Large baked potato (plain) 1330- Baked chicken breast or baked fish and a half can of green vegetables or any green vegetables.

1600- One can of tuna (in water) right out of the can (I enjoy the one in the bag best, Albacore). You can also put that bag of tuna over a small salad.

Evening meal will consist of the 1330 meal (salmon added to your salad is very good).

Try not to eat too late-1900 (7 pm, but do the best you can) is good.

Drink one gallon of water daily or as close to it as you can.

You may eat fruit all day except melons.

You may have one serving of lean beef (ground beef or steak) weekly.

For your sweets, you may eat a small bowl of sweet potatoes every other day or two fat free Fig Newton’s or some other type of dried fruit.

You can also eat a cup of rice at lunch or dinner time.

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A Salute to

Greatness HONORING FRANKIE MUSE FREEMAN

“In times of civil war there are many leaders, but a sensible leader restores law and order.”

Proverbs 28:2 Recently hundreds gathered at Calvary Baptist Church to honor a local legend, national treasure, Civil Rights Activist, 96th Spigarn Medal Award Winner, and author Frankie Muse Freeman. During the program in Mrs. Freeman’s honor she was given the key to the City of Danville by Mayor Sherman Saunders.

The Danville native was a practicing attorney in the state and federal courts for sixty years until she retired in 2009.

She was staff attorney for the St. Louis Clearance and Housing Authorities from 1956 until 1970, first as Associate General Counsel and later as General Counsel of the St. Louis Housing Authority. In March of 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson nominated her as the first woman to serve as Commissioner of the U.S Commission on Civil Rights. Following confirmation by the U.S Senate, she served for sixteen years. Subsequently she was reappointed

by Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter until July 1980 and as Inspector General of the Community Services Administration during the Carter Administration for a year and half.

Mrs. Freeman left Danville to attended Hampton University. That is when her journey began. She went on to receive a J.D. degree from Howard University School of Law. She became a member of the National Bar Association, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, and the Mound City Bar Association. She was inducted into the National Bar Association’s Hall of Fame in 1990. On February 26, 2007, she was inducted into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame. On July 28, 2011, she received the NAACP’s highest honor, the Spingarn Medal and on January 15, 2012, she was named the 2011 Citizen of the year by the St. Louis Post Dispatch.

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Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

Frankie Muse Freeman

Two factors come to mind when talking about Frankie Muse Freeman.

Heredity and environment and she exudes them both.

You have made us proud.

You may not have gotten all that you paid for, but you paid for all that you got! We need people like you, Frankie.

Thurmon Echols, Jr.

Frankie Muse Freeman has received many community service awards for outstanding achievement.

She is the recipient of honorary doctoral degrees from University of Missouri-St. Louis, Harris Stowe State University, Washington University, Hampton University, Saint Louis University, Aquinas Institute of Theology, Eden Theological Seminary, and Howard University.

She is a Trustee Emerita of the Board of Trustees of Howard University and past chair of the Board of Directors of the National Council on Aging, Inc. She is a board member of the Urban League of Metropolitan Saint Louis; she is also a member of the Executive Committee of St. Louis City NAACP, the Chancellor’s Council of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and the Trustee Board of Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church.

She is past national president of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Her Memoir, A Song of Faith and Hope: The Life of Frankie Muse Freeman was published in 2003.

Mrs. Freeman addressed the audience by saying, “God’s grace and mercy has brought me to this place. I have been honored so many times. But ain’t nothing like coming home. (I know that is not proper English but nothing else gets the point across like I want it.)” She explained that the very same church where she was being honored in was her foundation. Her grandfather was one of the founding fathers of Calvary Baptist Church. She recalled a few of her great accomplishments such as having three of her recommendations added to the Voters Act of 1969 and also encouraged the audience to do more than just vote but to “VOTE RIGHT.” She concludes with a heartfelt thank you to everyone, stating that, “Nothing could have been done without God, friends, and most of all family.” E

She has made Danville a little taller.

Carrie Ashe

Thank you for your abundant life.

You are a

national treasure.

Greg Hariston

Cynthia Polk

She stands for what she

the betterment She has of all made this people. strives for:

world what it is.

Kirby Wright

Portia Fitzgerald

Danvillian From a Distance Howard G. Adams, Ph.D.

Howard G. Adams, Ph.D. is Founder and President of H.G. Adams & Associates, Inc. Adams is a leading expert on mentoring and mentorship program development and has written, lectured, and consulted extensively on career, educational, personal, and professional development. He is a sought after keynote speaker and seminar presenter, having spoken at over 600 colleges and universities, numerous national conferences, and conducted training for a number of fortune 500 companies. Howard Adams is a proud husband to wife, Eloise Christine Davis. They have one daughter, Stephanie Glen Adams.

Adams was born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, on March 28, 1940. As a child, he helped his father on the family farm growing, tobacco, wheat, and corn. During high school, Adams worked as a kitchen helper at Greyhound bus station in Danville, Virginia. After graduating from high school in 1958, Adams left home and worked as a cook in New Jersey for one year before returning to Virginia to study biology at Norfolk State University. Howard received his B.S. degree in biology, from Norfolk State University in 1964, his M.S degree from Virginia State University in 1969 and his Ph.D. degree in higher education administration from Syracuse University in 1978.

From 1970 to 1973, Adams served as Norfolk State University’s first director of alumni affairs and the next year, he was nominated vice president for student affairs. In 1978, he accepted the position of executive director of the National Consor-

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Adams was born in Pittsylvania County... and helped his father on the family farm growing tobacco, wheat, and corn.

tium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science. Adams’ goal was to provide graduate fellowships in engineering and science, H.G Adams & Associates Inc. He also wrote or coauthored over fifteen self-help guides and handbooks including, Negotiating the Graduate School Process: A Guide for Minority Student.

In 1989, President Ronald Reagan, named Adams to the US Congressional Task Force on Women, Minorities, and the Handicapped in Science & Technology; the Society of Engineering Education (1993) awarded him it “Centennial Medallion” for individuals who have had a lasting impact on engineering education; and President Clinton (1996) named Adams as one of the first recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Mentoring. He was named a “Virginia Hero” by the Virginia Heroes, Inc. in 1996; named a “20th Century Outstanding Educator” by Black Issues in Higher Education in 1999; and The National Society of Black Engineers awarded Adams its Golden Torch Award “Life-

Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

He is a sought after keynote speaker and seminar presenter, having spoken at over 600 colleges and universities, numerous national conferences, and conducted training for fortune 500 companies. time Achievement in Academia” in 2002.

Adams was selected a “2004 Distinguished Alumnus” of Historical Black Colleges and Universities by the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education and he was named an “2004 Alumni Star” by the School of Science and Technology, Norfolk State University.

In 2006, he received the QEM Catalyst in STEM award for “Broadening Participation and Effectiveness Mentoring in STEM.” Howard Adams is known for his mentorship of minorities in science recently he was highlighted in History Makers® Science Makers Toolkit, Purpose & How to Use This Toolkit for contribution to the science field. E

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Urban Literacy Program New York Times Bestselling Author, Omar Tyree, visited Danville on April 19th. He discussed his Urban Literacy Project with local students, parents, and agency personnel. It is Mr.

Tyree’s goal to communities to understand the importance of reading and writing. His high energy presentations captivate his audiences.

The Urban Literacy Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to increase the global literacy rate among urban and other underprivileged youth through educational lectures, panel dialogues, enrichment prospects, and book donations at schools, community centers, libraries, and conferences.

Danville Pittsylvania Community Action and Danville Regional Foundation sponsored a meet and greet for Mr. Tyree with parents and youth in the Southside Community Action Office. In addition, Mr. Tyree met with students, parents, and faculty, through assistance with Gear Up sponsorship, to discuss the components of his Urban Literacy Project and entrepreneurship. E

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Selenadipitous Filling the Cookie Jar

by Selena Lipscomb

Sometimes I hit a baking spurt especially if something is bothering me or weighing heavy on my heart.

A few months ago I endured a very traumatic situation. I like to call it

job done. Be prepared!

Process I had to mix the ingredients. In a large bowl I mixed the dry items, the brown sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.

All of these items were put into a sifter. identity theft. I had my first professional As I hit the sifter I thought about how facial that resulted in first and second life can hit us hard sometimes so it is degree burns to my face and hairline. It was important to remember you are not in the extremely painful, but what hurt most of life’s sifter alone. all was to look in the mirror and not see the face that I am accustomed to seeing every As I began to mix the wet ingredients day with no explanation as to why this has in a smaller bowl, I thought about how happened. One day during my ordeal I each item was added. The eggs had to be went into the grocery store to pick up a few cracked before I could even use them. things for dinner and there were two young There has to be a crack in your life before ladies that began to point, stare, and laugh you can effectively be used for goodness. at me without even knowing why I looked The vanilla was measured out and poured the way that I did. into the bowl. We have to know how Instead of causing a scene in the store if you know what I mean. I reached for a bag of chocolate chips, strolled down the aisle and grabbed a box of brown sugar, and made my way over to the dairy section for some eggs for my personal bake-a-thon, which would take place as soon as I got home.

After dinner I gathered all the ingredients that I needed for Kat’s Kookies, one of my grandmother’s recipes that I could make with my eyes closed. As I began to mix the ingredients together I thought about how the cookie making process is so much like life.

people do what they do.

Out of the oven is a point I know we all have been in, but if we can just endure the heat our cookies will not crumble. Months have passed since my facial went wrong and I still experience some discomfort but, when you look at me I definitely am like the cookies I made that day. I don’t look like what I have been through.

Whatever ingredient you are, whatever baking process you have to endure, know that the end result will be delicious. I look forward to smelling the aroma of your freshly baked cookies. E

much to give of ourselves or else we will be misused. And of course Grandma Kat’s secret ingredient made me think about the fact that you can’t tell everybody everything.

My next step was to mix everything together until the batter became stiff. At this point I began to realize the life lesson I was receiving during my bake-a-thon.

Every item I used to bake the cookies experiences their own form of “identity theft,” because I had to change each item along the way.

Cooking time is the most important part of baking because if you leave the cookies in too long they will burn and you would Preparation I had to preheat the oven. You have wasted time and money. Every now never bake without preheating the oven and then I would peak in on the cookies first. In life you are never going to have just to make sure they were doing what anything worthwhile without a little heat. they needed to do until it was time to take No matter what goals we set for ourselves them out of the oven. You see, I had to we have to complete the task to be sure that let the cookies do what they had to do. In we have everything that we need to get the the baking process of life you have to let

42 Emerge! | SPRING 2012 | emergeva.com

Man Man’s Me Moment

By Immanuel Martin What my mom said is something that will make a difference in my life and the lives of others, but I can break down what she said into three sentences.

What my mom is really trying to say is…

Be who you are.

What matters is what’s on the inside of you not how you look.

What others do to you or say to you really doesn’t matter.

Momma your cookies were good and I love you and think you are beautiful inside and out. Happy Mother’s Day! Happy Father’s Day too Pop!

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