Showcase Magazine October 2018

Young Professionals of the Year year

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CONTENTS

Showcase Magazine

October 2018

2018 Young Professionals of the Year @showcaseDVA

Showcase Magazine

showcasedanville @ info@showcasemagazine.com

Features The 2018 Young Professionals of the Year 11

The Smokestack Theatre

Where There is Smoke...

By Anna Brooks

24

Also Inside

PG.

2018 Showcase Magazine’s

Young Professionals of the Year

11

4 ways to Cruise the Fall Colors in MHC

By Heather Hoffmant

30

Nine Grams

Instagrams From The Area 34

Also Inside Editor’s Letter Dedicated to the Future 6

From the Kitchen of

Big Bear’s Wife Frankenstein Rice Krispies Treats

By Angie Barrett

Paws for a Cause A Halloween Warning

By Paulette Dean

27

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Facts on the Sly

By Sly Strader Milam

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PG.

24

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showcase

Editor’s Letter

Dedicated to the Future In his book, True Professionalism, David Maister says, “Professional is not a label you give yourself. It is a description you hope others apply to you.” In the issue, we present the first annual Showcase Magazine Young Professionals of the Year. Our young professionals were nominated by peers and readers and chosen by our editorial staff.

Interviewing this year’s winners was an eye-opening experience. The level of dedication to professionalism is unwavering, and the desire to be better than yesterday is inspiring.

The biggest commonality amongst the young professionals is a vested interest in their communities. Without mentioning the above Maister quote to them, their answers were a perfect dissection of his definition of professionalism. These young professionals are devoted to a healthy community growth, and it’s safe to say that after getting to know them that our cities are in good hands.

Also, in this issue, we go inside the Smokestack Theatre Company and get a glimpse of its vision to make theater more accessible to all interested in getting involved. STC has big dreams, and the faces behind the company have the will to make all its dreams come true.

Speaking of community, we are putting together the 2019 issue of Our Town Magazine for Danville and Pittsylvania County. It’s a project we started in 2011, and it’s developed into a recruitment guide for Danville and Pittsylvania County. If you have a story idea or pictures you would like to submit to the new edition, feel free to email me at paul@showcasemagazine.com. If you’re a business that would like to be a part of Come Visit Danville-Pittsylvania County, please contact Lee at lee@showcasemagazine.com or Sly at sly@showcasemagazine.com.

Enjoy the issue.

October 2018

CEO Andrew Scott Brooks scott@showcasemagazine.com Editorial Director Paul Seiple | paul@showcasemagazine.com Graphic Designer Kim Demont | demontdesign@verizon.net Finance Manager Cindy Astin | cindy@showcasemagazine.com Advertising Lee Vogler | Marketing Director lee@showcasemagazine.com | 434.548.5335 Sly Strader Milam | Marketing Consultant sly@showcasemagazine.com Customer Service Subscribe to Home Delivery for $24 per year 753 Main Street #3, Danville, VA 24541 Phone 434.709.7349 info@showcasemagazine.com www.showcasemagazine.com contriButinG Writers Angie Barrett | Anna Brooks | Paulette Dean Heather Hoffman | Sly Strader Milam | Paul Seiple contriButinG PhotoGraPherS Angie Barrett | Brooke Krause Martinsville-Henry County Tourism Cover 2018 Young Professional of the Year, Ty’Quan Graves photographed by Brooke Krause

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year

2018 Young Professional of the Year

Corrie Bobe Photo by Brooke Klauss

C

orrie Bobe is a Danville native and a product

of the Danville Public School System. After

majoring in Marketing Management at Virginia Tech, her job took her to Northern Virginia and then San Francisco for a brief stint. Around ten years ago, Bobe decided to move back to the east coast to be closer to her family. What initially began as a short break in Danville, quickly turned into finding a fulfilling career and settling down in her hometown.

Bobe joined the Danville Office of Economic Development in 2009 and now serves as its Assistant Director. She oversees redevelopment efforts within the River District, along with assisting in the recruitment and retention of industrial- and technology-based businesses.

Outside of work responsibilities, Bobe serves the region through a number of civic and professional organizations such as the West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board, Danville Science Center, Inc., Virginia Economic Developers Association, and Danville Family YMCA. Bobe, her husband Iulian and two wonderful step-sons are proud residents of the Old West End and enjoy seeing the transformation taking place within this historic district.

We caught up with Corrie to discuss young professionalism.

SM: What is professionalism to you?

CB: Professionalism encompasses a number of qualities in an individual. I believe that someone who is classified as being a professional has dedicated time in gaining a deep knowledge of their field and has committed to continuously improving upon this knowledge-base or skill. When embarking upon a new project or strategy, they should be able to successfully develop this plan and implement it accordingly.

Should something go awry during the process, they should be able to communicate the issues and work diligently to resolve the problem. Professionals are good communicators and dedicate time and effort in setting (and managing) expectations. In addition, professionals understand that a first impression tends to be a lasting impression. One’s image and conduct are also very important.

SM: Who or what inspires you and why?

CB: Whether in my hometown or traveling abroad, I pull inspiration from conversations with individuals. Hearing their life’s stories, learning about their culture and beliefs, and understanding their challenges and successes really push me to step back and evaluate my personal and professional life.

My professional motivation is also stemmed from the younger generation of my family. I will be the first to admit that I do not understand half of the acronyms they use, most of the technology they obsess over, and the emotions they display. However, my interactions with them have challenged me to think outside of the box and create opportunities to help connect this generation to our region now and in the future. My wish is that they have ample reasons to stay in or move back to their home community as adults and become active participants in moving this region forward.

I believe that one can find inspiration through multiple actions or interactions. You just have to be open to that moment of insight and understanding.

SM: What do you admire about your community?

CB: I admire the tenacity of this community. Instead of sulking about the loss of its traditional industries, a decision was made to reinvent itself and focus on making strategic investments in areas that would make it more attractive to businesses and families. Over the past seven years, these investments have turned into successes.

Investments in workforce training programs have garnered attention from international industries and our River District is now classified as a model for downtown redevelopment.

I believe smaller communities provide a unique opportunity for its residents to play an active role in shaping its future. To have this level of input and participation, especially as a young professional, is something that few communities can offer.

This is truly an exciting time to live in Danville and to be part of the change that is taking place.

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Feature The Young Professionals Continued from Page 11

SM: What do you like to when you’re not working?

CB: I tend keep a pretty active work and volunteer schedule; however, when there is a break, I enjoy traveling, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, reading, and tackling property renovation projects. I also enjoy taking long walks outdoors when I need to recharge my batteries.

SM: What’s the best piece of advice you have for aspiring young professionals?

CB: I once heard someone say that the true meaning of being successful is to be able to share success stories across multiple areas of your life. Ensuring that you maintain a healthy work-life balance is very important to your overall health, happiness, and productivity level.

SM: Where do you see yourself in five years?

CB: My overarching life goals are to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled personally and professionally. From a professional standpoint, I hope to progress into the next level of my career in economic development. In my personal life, I hope to be able to fluently communicate in Romanian with my in-laws and successfully grow hydrangeas in my garden.

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year

2018 Young Professional of the Year

Morgan Epstein Photo by Brooke Klauss

M

organ Epstein was raised in Greensboro, NC

and made the move to Danville in 2011 to

attend Averett University. While at Averett, Epstein fell in love with the revitalization of the River District and knew she would call Danville home after graduation.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Clinical and Counseling Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis, Epstein joined AmeriCorps as a VISTA working at God’s Storehouse. Working at God’s Storehouse intrigued her enough to continue my career in the nonprofit world.

Epstein was hired at The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region as its program officer, managing the grants and scholarships programs. Epstein is hoping to gain more insight into nonprofit work by seeking a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership through Northeastern University. She is also a recent graduate of Leadership Southside.

We sat down with Morgan to discuss what being a young professional means to her.

SM: What does professionalism mean to you?

ME: I look at professionalism as having a strong work ethic and valuing the means to be successful. Possessing accountability is a huge component of professionalism in my eyes. It is extremely important for someone to take responsibility for their actions. Being consistent and having kindness are also two factors that play into professionalism. Having consistency and accomplishing your goals, shows that you are committed to your job and the company or organization that you work for. Being dependable also shows others that you are reliable and can be trusted to meet deadlines. Having kindness is part of the ethical side of professionalism. Everyone should be treated with kindness regardless of their position, role, or status. In my eyes, those who are kind to one another and treat everyone with respect are more professional than those that are not.

SM: Who or what inspires you?

ME: As cliché as this may sound, the people that we as nonprofits in the community serve, inspire me. They inspire me to continue to do the work that I do, the very best I can. Hearing stories of individuals who are dealing with tragedies and how they continue to strive to be better inspire me. Those who strive to put food on the table for their children when they know they themselves won’t be eating inspire me. Those who are determined to make a better life for their family inspire me. And those who wear a big bright smile while battling chemotherapy treatments, inspire me each and every day.

SM: What do you admire about your community?

ME: I admire the passion this community has. It has become very clear to me that there are quite a few go getters in this city. I love seeing the community get together and support one another. Working in the nonprofit world, I see first-hand passion and commitment in those that work in the nonprofits in my area. Operating a nonprofit is no easy task, however when you have a community that stands behind your mission and believes in the work that is being carried out, that makes it much easier. The excitement of the revitalization of the River District is extremely praise worthy. Seeing Downtown Danville emerge has been truly amazing. I remember when the River District was full of dilapidated, empty warehouses. I commend everyone who has helped the River District become what it is today.

SM: What do you like to do in your downtime?

ME: I like to spend time with my dog, Cooper, on the Riverwalk or just strolling through downtown. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love going to community events; whether that is the farmers market on Saturdays, fundraisers for the community, or enjoying a yoga class at Hot Asana, you will likely find me out and about in Danville. Most of my time is spent in the River District as that is where I live, work, and play. Playing tennis is also one of my favorite hobbies.

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year Continued from Page 14

SM: What advice do you have for aspiring young professionals?

ME: Take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way. It is so easy to get involved in this community. There are numerous service organizations in the area that welcome newcomers with open arms. I have been fortunate enough to be given many opportunities in my professional career and by saying “yes” to them, I met different people in a variety of fields.

SM: Where do you see yourself in five years?

ME: I absolutely love what I am doing now in the nonprofit world.

My goal is to have an executive leadership position in a nonprofit organization. Upon earning my master’s degree, I feel that my leadership skills, experience in the nonprofit sector, and relationship management skills will help me reach my future goals.

I absolutely love what I am doing now in the nonprofit world. I know that in the future my goal is to have an executive leadership position in a nonprofit organization. I am currently a graduate student at Northeastern University earning a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership and I feel that upon graduation, my leadership skills, experience in the nonprofit sector, and relationship management skills will help me reach my future goals.

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Sponsored Content The ARc of Southside

River District Artisans:

T

A True Social Enterprise

he Arc of Southside has been on a journey towards full inclusion since 2011. During this time, we have made great strides to move our services from facility based into the community. In 2012, we began our Supported Employment program and have since placed over 80 people into competitive employment.

In 2015, we closed our group home and assisted 17 people to move into their own homes. In 2018, we closed our Private Day School and helped with the transition of 7 students into the public school system.

This year, The Arc of Southside closed its sheltered workshop.

Although the closing just recently occurred, the planning process began much sooner and was part of our initial plan towards inclusive services.

There were several people who had worked at the sheltered workshop for many years. We met with each person and asked several questions regarding what they wanted for their future once the workshop closed. Some wanted to go out and find employment. Some wanted to participate in our Community Engagement program so they could spend time in the community and engage in activities that Danville has to offer. Many of them were very creative artists who were very vocal and passionate in their desires to continue doing what they loved.

From these discussions, we were encouraged to find an outlet for these artists to showcase and sell their work. We also looked at the

community and realized there were many local artists that also wanted an outlet to showcase their work. There was a need for all artists and we saw this as an opportunity to pursue a true social enterprise that supported our mission of full inclusion and was located in the heart of Danville’s River District.

We opened River District Artisans in December of 2014. River District Artisans is a beautiful retail store in downtown Danville that sells handcrafted items made by over 70 local Artisans. These Artisans produce jewelry, pottery, soaps, lotions, paintings, glass products, macramĂŠ, books, honey, cards, and much, much more. In addition, there are classes where budding artist can learn a new skill such as painting, pottery, basket weaving, poured painting, cheese making and more.

River District Artisans supports the mission of The Arc of Southside, while also providing jobs to people with varying abilities. There are nine artists who previously worked at the workshop who make beautiful quilts and blankets as well as dog beds and other items that are sold in the store along with the other local artisans.

Even though River District Artisans is operated by The Arc of Southside, it is driven by the 70 local artisans with varying abilities. River District Artisans is just another creative example of how we are getting people included in their community and promoting our mission.

For More Information on The Arc of Southside call 434.836.3272. www.showcasemagazine.com

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year

2018 Young Professional of the Year

Ty’Quan Graves Photo by Brooke Klauss

T

y’Quan Graves is the youngest member to be

elected to the Danville Public Schools Board.

He also is a member of the Social Service Advisory Board, and the Project Discovery Board all while majoring in Elementary Education and minoring in Special Education at Averett University. Graves works at the Danville YMCA as the coordinator for the off-site after-school program. He serves on the Career and Technical Education Board as well as the Adult Education Board.

Ty’Quan took time out of his busy schedule to chat with us about what it means to be a young professional.

SM: What does professionalism mean to you?

TG: Professionalism is the way you carry yourself. It’s a combination of being trustworthy, dependable, and treating people with respect. I try to be all of these things.

SM: Who or what inspires you?

TG: My family and the children I’ve worked with have inspired me to be a better person and to continue to strive for greatness. I want to be a champion for our city’s children. I want to be someone young children can look up to and be inspired by since they inspire me. I attended my first school board meeting while in sixth grade. After that, I wanted to be a part of the school board. Not only do I want to give back to the system that educated me, I also want to make a difference. The children count on me. I am not going to let them down.

SM: What do you admire about your community?

TG: I admire the way our city pulls together to make things happen, particularly the partnerships that exist in Danville. There is a strong bond between the city and the school system. In recent years, the two elected bodies have worked well together. Danville succeeds when we all work together toward a common goal. I believe we are moving in the right direction. I admire the community engagement investments done by community partners, such as the efforts of or new police chief, Scott Booth, and many other community organizations.

SM: What do you like to do in your downtime?

TG: I love to coach basketball, workout, and attend athletic events. I am committed to the city of Danville and I love to work with our children, so even in my downtown, I’m usually doing something with the youth.

SM: What’s the best piece of advice you have for aspiring young professionals?

TG: Work hard. Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard. There are no limits. Do not get outworked.

SM: Where do you see yourself in five years?

TG: I see myself being the best educator I can be.

Engaging students to relevant learning and motivating them to be the best they can be. I feel very fortunate to serve our city and plan to keep giving back in any way possible.

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year

2018 Young Professional of the Year

Beth Stinnett Photo by Brooke Klauss

B

eth Stinnett is the Assistant Director of Tourism

and the Film Office Coordinator with the

Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation. She has been with the organization for seven years and works diligently to promote Martinsville-Henry County (MHC) to both visitors and production companies.

Stinnett’s job entails a variety of duties including but not limited to, enticing visitors to the area, helping them once they are here, assisting people who are looking to relocate to the area, or by marketing the community to film and production crews looking for a place for their next project. As the Film Office Coordinator for MHC, Stinnett is personally certified with the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) and oversaw getting the film office AFCI-certified. Stinnett notes that sometimes the job can be very demanding, but it has its perks too. She has been fortunate enough to meet a ton of new people, visited beautiful places, and had extraordinary experiences along the way.

Stinnett proudly calls MHC is home. She was born and raised there and that’s a big part of why she enjoys what she does. Stinnett is active in the community. She is a member of the Martinsville Rotary Club. Along with her husband, Stinnett volunteers as a Sunday School teacher at Cross Point Church and works with children ages 2-5.

She also serves as the Treasurer for the Patrick Henry Elementary School PTO. In 2017, Stinnett graduated from Lead Virginia which is an organization that educates participants about regional differences and statewide needs. This shared experience is held over seven intense monthly sessions in different venues across the state to ultimately build a network of informed and engaged leaders.

We took a moment to talk to Beth about what it’s like to be a young professional.

SM: What is professionalism to you?

BS: Professionalism means always working for the good of the greater cause and not for selfish reasons. Personal

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feelings or political agendas should not interfere with the project or task at hand.

SM: Who or what inspires you and why?

BS: I have always encouraged my two children, Jackson and Mattison, to work hard and take pride in whatever they decide to do. I know they’re watching me, and even the effort and pride I put into my job of trying to help our community grow. This may be their home when they grow up.

SM: What do you admire about your community?

BS: There are numerous things I admire about Martinsville-Henry County, but I’d have to say that through the years, and after interacting with thousands of visitors, I am very proud of the friendliness of our community. Something I have heard time-after-time over these last seven years is how incredibly nice and hospitable all the locals are.

SM: What do you like to do in your downtime?

BS: I love going to concerts, hunting and fishing with my husband, lifting weights, doing yoga and running. I also love thrifting, repurposing vintage items and skimming Pinterest for my next DIY project. Any other time, I’m watching my Atlanta Braves and Dallas Cowboys play.

SM: What’s the best piece of advice you have for aspiring young professionals?

BS: Don’t hold yourself back. This is something I wish I had embraced sooner than I did. I think all too often we grow complacent because we are scared of failure for any number of reasons, sometimes because we feel as if we are “too young”, or scared to make that big move. Through experience I can say, that, most of the time, things are never as scary as you make them out to be. If you have vison or a dream, you have to go for it.

SM: Where do you see yourself in five years?

BS: I’m sure. Wherever that is, hopefully I will still be advocating for Martinsville-Henry County and helping others in some aspect. I love my community and look forward to seeing it blossom.

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Feature 2018 Young Professional of the Year

2018 Young Professional of the Year

Lakesha Reed-Curtis Photo by Brooke Klauss

L

akesha Reed-Curtis was born and raised in

Danville. She is a wife, mother of two, a registered

nurse, an author, and entrepreneur. ReedCurtis owns Medical Solutions Academy in Danville.

Medical Solutions Academy specializes in short-term healthcare training such as nurse aide, phlebotomy, practical nursing, and medical assistant.

We sat down with Lakesha to discuss what being a young professional means to her.

SM: What is professionalism to you?

LC: Professionalism is a direct reflection of your character, and how you conduct yourself amongst others. It is demonstrated by one who keeps his or her word, shows respect for others, and exceeds expectations in all settings.

SM: Who or what inspires you and why?

LC: I am inspired by seeing other’s progress. Those who inspire me have a strong drive to want more, do more, and never settle. Traveling also inspires me because it allows me to experience other cultures and appreciate the lifestyles of others.

SM: What do you admire about your community?

LC: I like the family feel of Danville. My hometown is a

small city where everybody knows everybody. I love the support my community has given me and continues to give. The fact that Danville is evolving is also something that I admire.

SM: What do you like to do in your downtime?

LC: Downtime? What’s that? I’m usually always working, but when I do find the rare moment to relax, I try to travel. I also look forward to spending time with my friends and family. The time I get to spend with loved ones keeps me grounded and in tune with reality.

SM: Do you have any words of encouragement for aspiring young professionals?

LC: Keep going. No one will believe in your vision as much as you do. Try to make your business one that you can leave to your family. It’s all about leaving a legacy. There will be times when you are unsure if you are doing what you are supposed to do, but just like that, God steps in and shows you a sign, and you keep it moving.

SM: Where do you see yourself in five years?

LC: I see myself having my DNP in Nursing, having a bigger location for MSA and having an RN program. I see myself investing more into real estate and possibly having another school in North Carolina.

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Feature The Smokestack Theatre

The Smokestack Theatre Where There is Smoke...

by Anna Brooks Photo by Brooke Klauss

P

assion, in its truest form, is sensory. Passion is

meant to be seen, it is meant to be heard; it is

meant to be felt. Passion is what The Smokestack Theatre Company is built upon.

Danville’s River District welcomed The Smokestack Theatre Company (STC) to the community as in September. At its roots, STC is a group of artists dedicated to sharing quality and culturally rich theatre with the region. Prior development in the River District acted as a falling domino to the establishment of the theatre. The evolution of Danville’s downtown area motivated Managing Director, Josh Lucia, in his vision for the theatre. With more and more restaurants, businesses, and opportunities making their debuts in the community, Lucia desired to contribute to the growth of the area. “I have been observing all the exciting progress in, specifically, the River District. I felt a theatre would be a perfect fit, and that people living, working, and visiting the district were hungry for what we could bring,” says Lucia. Lucia broke ground on the theatre with help from James Anderson, Artistic Director. James became dedicated to the theatre’s founding the second Josh introduced the idea to him. “My inspiration to create STC with Josh comes from recognizing the potential for a thriving arts community to flourish in this region,” says James.

The name of the theatre found influence from downtown Danville. The “Smokestack” Theatre is intended to be a respectful reminiscence of the Dan River Mill. The theatre’s logo alludes to the three smoke stacks that belonged to the mill and still stand tall in Schoolfield. Lucia, being brought up in Pittsylvania County, remembers not only the importance of the Dan River Mill but also the effect it had and continues to have on Danville. Lucia recalls the smokestacks from his childhood being a sort of beacon to the community, something everyone in the city and county could lay their eyes on from any height or distance. The creators of STC have hopes the theatre will serve just as the smokestacks did and still do, a theatre for everyone, and for every region.

The Smokestack Theatre Company possess an abundantly talented staff, some with as much as 40 years of experience in the theatre, and not one of them with less than twenty 24 Showcase Magazine |

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years of theatre under their belt. James Anderson, Kristen Williams, Linda Zimmerman, Mark Harrelson, and Rachel Timm are each an accomplice to Josh Lucia in his valiant effort to get the region involved in something great.

Each admits to a burning passion for the theatre. Kristen Williams’s, Education Director, reasoning behind her affection for theatre is shared with everyone involved. “I love that you can take on a roll. You can be an old woman.

You can be someone from another state, country, time period, or planet. I love when I get to see the look on the faces in the audience. I love the smell. I love the sound.

I love the sense of family that theatre brings. There is not a part of the theatre experience that I would trade.” This feeling is something that the theatre hopes to bestow upon those eager to get involved with STC. The carefully chosen staff have each been impacted so strongly by the theatre, whether it be when they were tenyears old starring in their first play or realizing at thirty the stage is where they belong, that they want to give the same opportunity to those in the community. Linda Zimmerman, Communications Director, expresses what she is most excited to see become of this theatre, “I am just overwhelmed with the thought of being able to help people step out of their own reality one show or event at a time.”

STC hopes to offer a season consisting of four main shows for the public to enjoy. The theatre, still in search for a permanent location, will be holding a number of acting classes for all ages. By offering these opportunities, STC aspires to assist individuals in finding his or her place, not only in the theatre, but in this world. Rachel Timm, Education Liaison, reveals that the theatre helped her discover herself. “Theatre enabled me to overcome my shyness and gain confidence. Theatre breaks down boundaries and reveals things about ourselves and the world around us.”

“Danville is changing, growing, and I believe that we have a great plan to build a theatre group everyone can enjoy and be proud of,” says Mark Harrelson, Theatre Liaison. With the stage curtains drawing back, The Smokestack Theatre is ready to start their show. The company is optimistic that they are going to have much success. Kristen Williams says, “Where there is smoke… (you know the rest).”

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Paws for a Cause

Paws for a Cause One early morning in November 2000, a comment made by a student at G.W. forever changed the way I look at Halloween.

Written by Paulette Dean Executive Director Danville Humane Society

victim of a cult ritual. You do not want to know the details.

From that, I learned more about that bridge and more about sacrificial rituals. My hatred for Halloween has been strong and quite complete since that time.

The myths of Halloween are not myths at all. There really are cruel rituals that are held during Halloween, as well as other times.

For twelve years, I taught an early morning scripture study class at church. It’s a worldwide church program for teenagers called seminary; these young people attend the class at 6:00 in the morning.

One day (to my recollection, it was November 1st), one of the students, a young girl named Jennifer, said to me, “You should really stop high school students from sacrificing animals at Satan’s Bridge on Halloween.”

I had never heard of Satan’s Bridge, and I had always hoped I would not hear about animal sacrifices in this area. Nevertheless, I asked her for more details.

It is imperative, then, that companion animals be kept safe during this time. The best place for your dogs and cats is inside your house. Every outside animal is at the mercy of the people with whom they come into contact.

Meet Larry This cockatiel is about ten years old, but could live another ten. His owner recently had to go into hospice care. Larry needs to be in a home that will provide him a huge cage with lots of toys; however, he would prefer to be a part of the family without being held.

By 10:00 that morning, a volunteer, the shelter manager, and I had gone out to the bridge on Berry Hill Road. We were absolutely stunned to see a dead black cat in the middle of the road, and his wounds were consistent with being sacrificed. He had not been hit by a car; he had been the

Get your tickets now for Paws & Claws 2018! Check our Facebook page for all the information.

Danville Humane Society

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Feature Big Bear’s Wife

From the Kitchen of

Big Bear’s Wife Frankenstein Rice Krispies Treats Written by Angie Barrett of BigBearsWife.com Photo by Angie Barrett

These fun and Easy Snickers Chalkboard Brownies are perfect for getting ready for school to start and for Back to School Lunches! These brownies are decorated to look just like little mini chalkboards!

Yield: Makes about 10 (depends on how big you cut the squares)

• Use some of the melted chocolate and “glue” on the candy eyes.

• Fill a ziplock bag with some of the melted chocolate, snip an end off and pipe a stitched mouth onto Frankenstein.

• Let the Frankenstein Rice Krispies Treats sit for about 20 minutes undisturbed or until the chocolate has hardened.

INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons butter 10 ounces marshmallows 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal Green food coloring Melted Chocolate/Candy Coating Candy Eyes

by Sly Strader Milam

on the Sly

Facts

INSTRUCTIONS • Melt the butter in a large pot and add the marshmallows.

Stir until they are all melted.

• Add in the food coloring and stir until it turns green.

• Add rice krispie cereal a little bit at a time and stir to combine.

• Press Rice Krispies cereal into a buttered 9 x 13 pan.

Press flat and let cool.

• Let Rice Krispies treats sit for about 30 minutes.

• Remove from pan and cut into squares.

• Melt chocolate according to the package directions.

Dip the tops of the Rice Krispies Treats into the melted chocolate.

• Lay on a sheet of wax paper (or a plate).

flower of the month of October is the calendula, symbolizing • The traditional comfort, healing, protection, and grace.

• More US presidents have been born in October than in any other month.

• Jack-o’-lanterns were once made out of turnips, beets, and potatoes- not pumpkins. has been called All Hallows Eve, Witches Night, Lamswool, Snap-Apple • Halloween Night, Samhain, and Summers End. and orange are typically associated with Halloween. Orange is a symbol of • Black strength and endurance and, along with brown and gold, stands for the harvest and autumn. Black is typically a symbol of death and acts as a reminder that Halloween once was a festival that marked boundaries between life and death.

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Explore Martinsville

4 Ways to Cruise the Fall Foliage in Martinsville-Henry County

Written by Heather Hoffman Photos Provided By Martinsville-Henry County Tourism

Whether by foot, bike, boat, kayak, or motorcycle, you can cruise throughout Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia this season to admire the fall colors.

Hikers: Enjoy the path less taken along some of the many trails that make up the Smith River Trail System. For a more leisurely walk, try the Fieldale Trail, which travels 2.4 miles along the bank of the Smith River, and gives walkers and hikers the opportunity to experience beautiful views of the river and an abundance of wildlife in the historic town of Fieldale. Perhaps a more natural and wooded trail is more your taste. If so, head over to the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve. This preserve is a 75-acre park located along the Smith River in Henry County, Virginia. Two miles of wooded trails are on the property that wind down

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along the river and include stops at charming sites such as historic tobacco buildings from the early 1900s, a family cemetery from the Burgess Family plantation of the 1800s, a rhododendron tunnel and more.

Cyclists: Cruise down the Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail, which is part of the former Danville and Western Railroad line. Train enthusiasts will enjoy reading stories about the history of the rail line that’s featured on the many signs located along the trail. The D&W Trail is also great for walking, running or rollerblading. Sound a little too tame? Enjoy the thrills of mountain biking at Mountain Laurel Trails, voted the best mountain biking trail in Virginia by SingleTracks.com. Situated on 100 acres, the trails currently stretch for over 12 miles and encompass

varying levels of difficulty for beginners as well as seasoned bikers to enjoy. The intermediate trails feature 600 feet in elevation gain along with plenty of elements to provide for an exciting ride for all!

Canoe/Kayak: If getting on the water is your favorite way to explore the colors of the season, then Martinsville-Henry County has you covered. Enjoy the lake life experience at Philpott Lake where nine boat launches await to get you out on the water. Philpott Lake offers pleasure boaters and paddlers a variety of places to explore including hidden waterfalls, scenic rock outcrops and three islands. Another option is to hop in your kayak, raft or canoe for an exciting journey down the beautiful Smith River. Along the Smith River Trail System, eleven public boat ramps are available for use by paddlers and anglers. If you enjoy whitewater, canoeing or kayaking the river during peak generation from Philpott Dam is the optimal time to plan your ride.

If a relaxing flat water paddle is more your speed, put your boat or SUP in further downstream. Regardless of the speed of your journey, beautiful fall foliage can be enjoyed all along the river banks.

Motorcycle: Prefer a cruise with a rumble? Motorcyclists can start with a Continued to Page 16 www.showcasemagazine.com

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Explore Martinsville

Continued from Page 31

journey along HWY 57 that will take riders along the Smith River as it winds its way through the county. Take a pit stop and explore some of our Smith River Small Towns such as Fieldale and Bassett. Hop back on 57 and continue the fall experience with a stop at the Philpott Lake Visitor Center. There you can learn more about the history and wildlife of the area and experience the breathtaking view from the overlook; one of the best fall views in MartinsvilleHenry County and the region. After that, continue your fall experience with a regional adventure to explore the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. By following 57 to Route 8, you will wind your way through the mountains and on to the Parkway via the Rocky Knob Loop. Be sure to stop off at a local apple orchard such as Wade’s Orchard in Floyd, a part of “The Crooked Road,” Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.

Rich music heritage can be experienced at Floyd Country Store’s Friday Night Jamboree or County Sales - home of the world’s largest collection of traditional bluegrass and old-time music.

For more details about ways to enjoy fall in MartinsvilleHenry County or to learn about other getaway ideas, contact us at tourism@yesmartinsville.com, on Facebook @ VisitMartinsville or call us at 888.722.3498.

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Every heartbeat, every moment It’s because of the special moments you have along the way that we take your care so seriously.

It’s for remembering how much it warmed your heart to hear your son’s excitement to play his first soccer game and how he would score a hundred goals.

No matter what life may bring, our cardiovascular team puts their heart and soul into caring for you and your family so that many more special moments can be cherished.

Their dedication, expertise, and remarkable care led Centra Lynchburg General Hospital to be named – for the seventh time – one of the nation’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals by IBM Watson Health.

Learn more about the Centra Stroobants Heart Center and our expert cardiologists, surgeons, and nurses 434.200.5252

But we’re not in it for the recognition. We’re here for every heartbeat, every moment, every step of the way.

100 Top Hospitals® is a registered trademark of IBM Watson Health™

StroobantsCardiovascular.com | Bedford | Danville | Farmville | Gretna | Lynchburg | Moneta