Showcase Magazine November 2017

#WhyNCI

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CONTENTS

Showcase Magazine

November 2017

The Career Path I ssue @showcaseDVA

Showcase Magazine

showcasedanville @ info@showcasemagazine.com

Features

Features

New College Institute

A Musician’s Journey

Paving the Way for Education and Careers

By New College

Mark Davidson

By Paul Seiple

26

Institute

12

From the Kitchen of

Walk For Suicide Prevention

Creamed Corn Macaroni and Cheese

20

Big Bear’s Wife

By Angie Barrett

28

The Young Professional Autumn Morris

By Lee Volger

PG.

24

12

PG.

26

#WhyNCI

New College Institute Is Paving The Way For Education and Careers

Also Inside Publisher’s Letter

Choose a Path That Brings You Happiness 8

He Said...

She Said...

Paws for a Cause An animal’s thankfulness and gratitude.

By Paulette Dean

27

A Tasty Holiday in MHC

A look at what’s good to eat and drink this holiday season.

By Heather Hoffman

Hair Curlers; No Thanks

30

By Larry Oldham & Dena Hill

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Not So Common – Common Sense!

Failure is not an option!

By Stan Jones

33

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Nestled in Martinsville is New College Institute (NCI), a state-funded educational entity that provides access to bachelor’s degree completion programs, master’s degrees, teacher endorsement programs, teacher recertification courses, and more through partnerships with colleges and universities. NCI strives to be accessible and convenient for students of all ages. The NCI staff, faculty, and board members are all committed to making the college a premier educational facility for students, businesses, and the community at large.

11.17

CONTENTS

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www.showcasemagazine.com Magazine 7 www.showcasemagazine.com| |November November2017 2017| | Showcase Showcase Magazine

Editor’s Letter

Choose a Path That Brings You Happiness “Passion is what gives meaning to our lives. It’s what allows us to achieve success beyond our wildest imagination. Try to find a career path that you have a passion for.” Those are the words of Henry Samueli who is the named inventor in 70 U.S. patents. Samueli co-founded the Broadcom Corporation which specialized in wireless and broadband communication products. The UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science and the Henry Samueli School of Engineering at UC Irvine are named after him. I’d say Samueli found his passion and lives by his words. He also owns the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks.

Choosing a career is a mixture of excitement, fear, and “what ifs.” The first question you should ask yourself is “Am I passionate about this?” If you have to think about that, then it may not be the career for you. In this issue, we go inside New College Institute (NCI) in Martinsville. NCI is helping area residents to develop careers through education and handson experiences. Programs with emphasis on health care, engineering, and technology to name a few makes NCI a valuable asset to the area.

Keeping along the lines of passion and careers, Mark Davidson has turned his lifelong passion for music into a career. Whether its solo or with the Pizazz Band, Davidson loves to create and perform.

Switching gears, November is the beginning of the holiday season. For most, it’s a joyous time, but for some, it’s the worst time of the year. The “holiday blues” is a very real thing.

According to the National Alliance of Mental Alliance, “64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse.” Some of the symptoms of the holiday blues include fatigue, tension, a sense of loss, and sadness. NAMI has a list of tips to help avoid the holiday blues at https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/November-2015/Tips-forManaging-the-Holiday-Blues.

And remember TALK SAVES LIVES. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) if you need to talk to someone.

Choosing a path of happiness isn’t always the easiest route, but the rewards of going the extra mile to get there are well worth it.

Enjoy the issue.

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showcase November 2017

CEO Andrew Scott Brooks scott@showcasemagazine.com P r e si d e nt Larry Oldham | larry@showcasemagazine.com E d ito r i a l Di r e cto r Paul Seiple | paul@showcasemagazine.com G r a p h ic D e sign e r Kim Demont | demontdesign@verizon.net F in a nc e M a n a g e r Cindy Astin | cindy@showcasemagazine.com C h i e f P h otog r a p h e r Mariah Blankenship Springs A d v e r tising Larry Oldham | Director of Sales and Marketing larry@showcasemagazine.com | 434.728.3713 Lee Vogler | Marketing Consultant lee@showcasemagazine.com | 434.548.5335 C u stom e r S e r v ic e 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 cont r i B u tin G W r it e r s Paulette Dean | Dena Hill | Heather Hoffman Stan Jones | New College Institute | Larry Oldham Paul Seiple | Lee Vogler | Amy Wood cont r i B u tin G P h oto G r a P h e r S Mark Davidson Martinsville Henry County Department of Tourism New College Institute | Out of the Darkness Cover Photo taken by Mariah Springs: Autumn Morris - Director of Communications & Marketing, New College Institute Showcase Magazine reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Showcase Magazine standards. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned.

Showcase Magazine assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. c 2017 Showcase Magazine Inc.

November 2017

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He Said She Said

He Said... She Said...

Hair Curlers; No Thanks

He Said...

Since we started dating 19 years ago, I have no trouble finding things to be thankful about. I’m thankful we are two peas in a pod (most of the time). I’m thankful you moved to Danville just because of me. I’m thankful you don’t complain about life’s little complications because I complain enough for both of us. I’m thankful we have Sophie, and as you say, the most gorgeous, lovable standard poodle on earth. I’m thankful for my family. I’m thankful I’m 71-years old, and I still have my mother around to tell me what to do. I’m thankful for my new grandson who is the most handsome, most perfect, lovable, cuddly baby boy ever and the smartest at only one- month of age. I expect him to be doing calculus next month and Spanish after that. I’m thankful for not having to endure hurricanes, floods, and destruction the way others have. I’m thankful for my Beatles collection. I’m thankful for my car collection.

I’m thankful for my collection of multitudes of memorabilia. I’m thankful for U-Haul who stores all my collections. I’m thankful to have a roof (several) over my head. I’m thankful for enough food to eat.

BUT about a month ago, you came to bed with some horrible pink things twisted around your hair that I don’t remember

Written by Larry Oldham & Dena Hill Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

seeing before, and then you shushed me when I screamed at the weird sight. What in the world??? How can you even get close enough to your pillow to go to sleep? Your head doesn’t even touch it. If it hurts you as much as it hurts me to look, I am sorry for you. I AM NOT THANKFUL FOR THEM!

She Said...

Well, here we go about my hair again. I guess you decided to hit the nail on the head early this time instead of waiting a little longer to notice it, so I wouldn’t have to take more drastic measures. You directed a play called Dixie Swim Club several years ago, and there was a line at the end of it regarding one of

the characters who had “dyed and fried” her hair so much that every strand on her head looked like brittle wires instead of soft strands of hair. Her hair just needed a rest and a chance to regrow. That’s what I’m doing. I’m not using hot curlers and curling irons for a while so hopefully, my hair will recover and start growing again. You’re just going to have to get used to it.

You may have to be Mr. Hollywood and wear eye shades at night so you won’t have to look at me. If I catch you doing a selfie or taking photos of my hair while I am sleeping to put on Facebook, you and I are going to have to have a little come to reason meeting. Maybe I can turn off the lights before I come to bed so I don’t scare you to death.

I agree with the other things you are thankful for though since this month is all about giving thanks. I’m not sure about all your collectibles when it comes time to move them from one place to another. I could be more thankful if you decided to get rid of everything before we move again.

I’m thankful for you, my family, your family, our good health, and the hope that one day there will be peace in our world. We want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

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Feature New College Institute

#WhyNCI New College Institute Is Paving The Way For Education and Careers Written by New College Institute Photos by New College Institute

N

estled in Martinsville is New College Institute

(NCI), a state-funded educational entity that

provides access to bachelor’s degree completion programs, master’s degrees, teacher endorsement programs, teacher recertification courses, and more through partnerships with colleges and universities. NCI strives to be accessible and convenient for students of all ages. The NCI staff, faculty, and board members are all committed to making the college a premier educational facility for students, businesses, and the community at large.

education, technology, and public-private partnerships with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. NCI’s campus also includes King Hall and Fayette Lab, all located in uptown Martinsville.

NCI is located on the Baldwin Block in uptown Martinsville. The 52,00 square-foot space is a hub for

Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing At a recent industry roundtable meeting hosted by New

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In addition to college-level degree and certification programs, NCI offers experiential learning opportunities, summer camps, non-credit lecture series, financial aid resource events, and other community programs to promote access to education throughout the MartinsvilleHenry County region.

College Institute, one message was clear: manufacturers in our region need more engineers. And the demand is only expected to increase as most the current engineering workforce near retirement.

John Parkinson, CEO of Drake Extrusion Inc., highlights the need for engineers in our community. “When I look at engineers in our company, 90% of them are over the age of 45,” which reinforces the need to create opportunities for young people to “get excited” and pursue these engineering degrees in order to fill future vacancies.

This is why NCI has made engineering and advanced manufacturing one of their key focus areas – and starting at a young age.

“We are working to develop a pipeline of students seeking out careers in STEM fields, particularly in engineering as a response to regional industry demand,” says Dr. Leanna Blevins, executive director of NCI. STEM-based programs at NCI begin with middle school summer camps in areas of engineering and coding. Then, high school juniors and seniors can get on the fast track to earning their degree in engineering through the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET). This program represents a partnership with Virginia State University where high school students can earn engineering credits by taking morning classes at either NCI or the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research.

NCI also offers customized training on advanced manufacturing equipment housed within NCI’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing.

Peter Basica of J. P. Superior Solutions is already utilizing services at NCI to improve his workforce. “We need to do things cheaper, better, and faster than our competitors who are producing overseas. NCI is a way for me to achieve that goal through rapid prototyping. Now that my employees are doing additional training at NCI on Saturdays, their growth and advancement has been phenomenal. To me, NCI is like an incubator. NCI will really help me grow my business,” says Basica.

NCI also partners with Patrick Henry Community College, the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation, and Eastman for the Center for Advanced Film Manufacturing (CAFM) program. This 28-credit hour program allows students to get an in-depth education and hands-on experience to prepare students

for a position within advanced manufacturing. Students can participate in an internship at Eastman and are guaranteed an interview with Eastman upon completion of the CAFM program. Currently, 92% of program graduates are working within advanced manufacturing.

In the future, NCI aims to offer a bachelor’s in engineering program with the goal of offering the highest quality education at the lowest price. “We want to create programs that are responsive to the needs of industry along with hands-on experiences so that our graduates are truly job-ready from the moment they are hired,” says Senator Bill Stanley, NCI’s Board Chair.

Technology & Cyber Security Cyber security is a threat we all face. Whether you are a business owner or casual online shopper, cyber security should be on your radar. In a report from ComputerWorld.com, 90% of companies said their computers had been breached in the last year and 73% of Americans reported encountering some type of cybercrime.

And while there is a growing need for cyber security professionals, thousands of jobs go unfilled each year.

In fact, Forbes Magazine reports that 40,000 cyber security jobs in the U.S. go unfilled each year. In fact, it is predicted that globally, there will be two million www.showcasemagazine.com

Continued to Page 14

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Feature New College Institute

Continued from Page 13

unfilled cyber security jobs by 2019. Statistics like these explain why there is such a crucial need for cyber security training.

Leigh Ann McGuire Leigh Ann McGuire represents a first for New College Institute.

She is the first bachelor’s degree student to enroll directly from high school. After completing her associate’s degree during high school through the ACE Academy, McGuire made the decision to enroll as a Longwood University student in the Elementary Education program offered at NCI. Starting her junior year of high school, Leigh Ann began visiting college campuses to help her make that all-important decision of where to go to college. After visiting Longwood’s main campus in Farmville, VA, she felt that it was the best place for her… until she learned about the option to become a Longwood student here in Martinsville at NCI. “I met with Sammy Redd to discuss some financial aid questions that I had. While we were meeting, he told me about the Elementary Education program available at NCI through Longwood. He encouraged me to visit the new building and meet with Dr. Pam Randall. After I did, everything just felt right and I knew this was the best path for me,” said McGuire.

McGuire enjoys that the classes are held in the evening, which allows her to continue working at Stanleytown Elementary School while pursuing her degree. She currently works at Stanleytown as a PALS tutor, but has been involved with the school for the past five years, starting as an intern her 9th grade year.

She also enjoys the small class sizes available at NCI, which promotes a sense of family and closeness among the students and professors.

“I have made great friends through the program. We always help each other out. The professors are wonderful and are able to provide individualized help to each student,” added McGuire.

“I would highly recommend the Longwood program at NCI if you want a college experience but would like to stay close to home. Here, you are a real Longwood student, and I have gotten a lot of the same college experiences that my friends who went away to college are getting,” said McGuire.

McGuire will be able to complete the full requirements for her bachelor’s degree in two years plus one semester. So, this 2016 high school graduate will complete her bachelor’s degree and be ready to enter the workforce by December 2018.

NCI’s first cyber security certificate program will be a cyber security boot camp offered in partnership with JLGOV. In this week-long intensive certification camp, Security + courses will be available at NCI by Industry partner JLGOV delivering content through its authorized CompTIA Delivery Partner. More courses will become available in the future including certifications such as Net+, CISSP, Linux+, IT Fundamentals, and CEH among others.

The first camp will provide participants with the training and vouchers needed to complete the Security+ certification. And even though it is a week-long training, participants will have access to the materials and instructor for up to a year. Participants can also choose to take the certification test right away or within a year’s time. This course is ideal for employers wishing to improve the skill set of their IT staff or for individuals looking to expand their credentials in cyber security.

Employers wishing to send staff to this boot camp can even be reimbursed 50-90% through the funding made from the Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

NCI will also offer their own IT Learning Management System (LMS). This LMS will be an online subscription model that will give students access to IT courses.

“As we offer this new learning platform, we plan to work with our community college and university partners to allow the classes to be counted towards college credit for an Associates or Bachelors in fields of cyber security or technology,” says Michael Palmer, NCI’s IT Manager.

In addition, NCI is working toward offering a full bachelor’s degree program in these fields as well. “This is an exciting time at NCI as we plan to fight to help fight the good fight of cyber security,” Palmer adds.

Health Care NCI is capitalizing on another technological trend – telehealth care. In 2014, NCI and the University of Virginia Center for Telehealth partnered together to create STAR Telehealth. The Southside Telehealth Training Academy and Resource Center (STAR) is a premier Continued to Page 16

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Feature New College Institute

Continued from Page 14

training program for health care providers seeking to use advanced telemedicine and telehealth systems to improve access to quality healthcare for rural and medically underserved populations.

Currently, STAR Telehealth offers the following certificates/ credentials: • Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider, which provides practical training for mental health professionals who offer services through technological means. The evidence-based courses are the result of a comprehensive literature research, job analysis, beta test, and review bytelemental health thought leaders in all mental health disciplines.

• Clinical Telemedicine Clinical Presenter (CTCP) and Certified Telehealth Coordinator (CTC), both which equip graduates with the skills to present patients during virtual encounters with physicians and specialists.

• CTCP with Telestroke speciality, which is designed to give graduates the skills to correctly present stroke patients during virtual encounters.

• HIPAA, which is designed to ensure telehealth professionals have a strong understanding of the guiding provisions of the HIPAA laws pertaining to PHI, distribution and protection of PHI, as well as how HIPAA applies in the telehealth setting.

NCI and UVA are working together to expand this partnership. New credentials scheduled to be offered in

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2018 include new telestroke and telemental modules.

In addition to new programs, STAR will be expanding its efforts beyond our region and extending its reach globally.

“Telehealth has a unique opportunity to provide training to rural locations throughout the country and even throughout the world. By providing access to this technology and proper training, STAR can be an integral part of improving access to healthcare around the world,” shares Dr. Leanna Blevins, NCI’s executive director.

“Our goal is to become the go-to organization for telehealth training needs,” adds Jennell Charles, Telehealth Strategic Consultant.

Another area of expansion for STAR includes tapping into other industries beyond healthcare that can use the technologies available through telehealth services.

In addition to telehealth training and credentials, NCI is working to provide workforce and education solutions in the healthcare field.

“After hosting a recent healthcare roundtable with employers throughout Southside Virginia, it is clear that we need to deliver more healthcare programs to meet a growing need,” says Blevins.

NCI is working to offer new programs such as a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Master’s level programs, and

continuing education and professional development trainings.

Educational & Community Leadership Bachelor’s degree programs in the fields of education and social work have been a staple at NCI. “These programs represent high-need areas throughout our region and beyond,” shares Dr. Leanna Blevins, executive director of NCI. Educational and community leadership programs at NCI include: • Averett University: Bachelor’s in Applied Science • James Madison University: Educational Leadership Endorsement • Longwood University: Bachelor’s in Elementary Education • Longwood University: Bachelor’s in Middle School Education • Longwood University: Bachelor’s in Social Work • Longwood University: Master’s in Education (Library Media) • Radford University: Special Education Endorsement

In addition to various degree programs, NCI works with partners to offer professional development, trainings, and recertification options within education and social work. These continuing education options are offered throughout the year and can even be customized for specific employers.

For more information, contact NCI at (276) 403-5615 or at www.NewCollegeInstitiute.org.

Sarah Treadway Sarah is just beginning her journey as a Longwood University student as she pursues a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW).

Students can earn these degrees from the respective partner university while receiving face-to-face instruction offered at NCI in Martinsville.

After graduating from Patrick Henry High School (located in Roanoke) in 2011, Sarah went on to earn her Associate’s Degree from Patrick Henry Community College. She currently lives in Rocky Mount with her husband and son.

According to Dr. Pam Randall, Longwood Faculty and Program Coordinator for Education, “When our students graduate, they are job ready. They have taken all the tests and earned all the credentials needed to be fully licensed.

In addition, they get free, one-on-one tutoring services for any tests they need to take.”

What has her experience been like so far as a Longwood student at NCI? “The work is hard, but I have the opportunity to go to a 4-year college and pursue my bachelor’s degree close to home. I love that I am a true Longwood student, and I take great pride in that,” said Sarah.

Janie Brazier, Longwood Faculty and Program Coordinator for Social Work, agrees. “Our students are able to get hands-on experiences and connect with local employers. That’s why one reason our students are getting job offers in their career fields before they even graduate.”

NCI offers flexible schedules and evening classes so that our students can continue working while earning their degree. Our programs are also more cost effective because students do not have to pay fees or costs associated with housing or meal plans.

“Our students save more than 40% on tuition costs as compared with some of the other options offered online,” says Randall.

For working adults with families at home, degree programs offered at NCI give the opportunity to pursue a quality education with a flexible schedule. “Even though I am taking my classes at NCI, we are governed by the same social work code of ethics as every other BSW program. The program is not any easier, but it’s close to home with a flexible class schedule so that working moms and dads can graduate,” shared Sarah.

In addition to the educational quality and schedule, Sarah also appreciates the modern facilities and technology available at NCI. She feels that the available technology enhances the learning and makes students feel welcomed and excited to be here.

The small class sizes are another benefit for Sarah. “My fellow students have become my family. We talk every day and even buy birthday presents for each other’s kids. I didn’t know these people before the semester began, and now we are all so close.” www.showcasemagazine.com

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Feature Out of the Darkness

Walk For Suicide Prevention Photos Provided by Out of the Darkness & Amy Wood

T

he American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

(AFSP) continues its goal raise suicide awareness

in our area through the Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk.

The Out of the Darkness Community Walks are 3-5 mile walks taking place in hundreds of communities across the country this year with the proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). By walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walks, you will be walking with thousands of other walkers

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nationwide to raise money for AFSP’s vital research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives, increase national awareness about depression and suicide, and provide support for survivors of suicide loss.

In deciding to walk, you are taking us a step closer to making suicide prevention a national priority.

The Danville walk takes place on November 4., and all are encouraged to participate. “If we are all proactive about our mental health, we can stop the stigma associated with

A Sister’s Story Brandon Ray Brown

by Amy Wood

reaching out for help,” says Lorrie Eanes-Brooks, Lead Walk Chair, Virginia Chapter Board of AFSP. The Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Walk is much more than a fundraiser walk each year. The group is dedicated to supporting at-risk groups in any way they can. LeAnne Hardy, Chair of the Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Walk says, “This year’s special project is Youth Suicide Awareness and to support that we have presented TALK Saves Lives at Averett University and Danville Community College. Our goal with this year’s fundraising dollars is to provide the resources necessary to incorporate More Than Said into every high school health class in Danville, Pittsylvania County and surrounding areas.” The volunteers and supporters are who make the annual walk a success. “It is amazing to see the hearts of our supporters at work. They all share the same desire to make a difference in our community and give of themselves, expecting nothing in return! Since day one, they have never let me down,” says Hardy.

I first visited an Out of the Darkness Walk in September of 2016, after losing my younger brother, Brandon Ray Brown, in December of 2015. Brandon’s suicide on December 8, 2015, just two days passed his thirtysixth birthday, was the most horrific tragedy my family has ever faced. However, it was not as shocking as one would expect; I suppose we had known for a long time that suicide was as viable an option for my brother as living another day.

Conversely, I was stunned to learn the following statistic: Ninety percent of all people who die by suicide have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death. (AFSP, 2014) Brandon suffered from substance abuse from the time he was first introduced to marijuana at age twelve. It is an undeniable fact that his lifelong battle with addiction played a critical role in his decision to take his own life. Had my family, and I known how high the risk of death by suicide was for Brandon perhaps we would have taken as many precautions as possible to prevent this tragedy. The Out of the Darkness Walks along with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provide the education and resources we desperately needed, but were completely unaware even existed. My hope is to work with this foundation to bring awareness to my community and possibly help the next family recognize the warning signs and prevent of suicide in their loved one.

Awareness for suicide prevention should be recognized every day. At some point, everyone’s life is affected. If you would to get involved visit @Danvillewalk on facebook for more information.

#outofthedarkness #bethevoice #stopsuicide #stopthe22 #suicideprevention #suicideawareness #depression #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #life

Brandon’s family: Mike Wood, Amy Brown Wood, Mason Wood, Janice Brown, Brandon Brown, and Donnie Brown www.showcasemagazine.com

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Paws for a Cause

Paws for a Cause Throughout my 25 years at the animal shelter, so many animals have taught me lessons about being grateful. Sometimes, their gratitude is very obvious.

There was a dog several years ago who had just been seized during freezing temperatures.

He was emaciated, but he took time to lick the hand of a volunteer who gave him a rawhide treat.

An emaciated horse put his head on my shoulder as I recounted the story about how he had been found and rescued.

Dogs wag their tails as they are taken off their chains for the first time in years. Our hearts have also broken as we have seen them wag their tails when offered a drop of cool water on a boiling hot day.

Sometimes, an animal’s gratitude is not as easy to detect. We remember, though, the

Written by Paulette Dean Executive Director Danville Humane Society

Meet Bill & Frank These little cuties are two of the many kittens we have at the shelter.

way that a duckling that had been caught in some brush on the riverbank ran up the bank to follow us when his leg was freed.

We also remember the kitten that had just been extricated from a car engine who curled up in a lap and slept all the way to the shelter.

On and on the stories go. Some would say that we are misinterpreting a simple reaction as thankfulness. However, we believe animals express joy and gratitude much more easily and naturally than some may think.

During this November, we invite you to consider how you can express gratitude for what you have been given. The animals who have so little, but express such thankfulness can be your example.

Danville Humane Society

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The Young Professional Autumn Morris

The Young Professional Autumn Morris Written by Lee Vogler Photos by Mariah Springs

There is a love and passion for the Martinsville-Henry County region that drives Autumn Morris. It’s at the core of her being. A native of Henry County, Morris has seen the region go through it all. The good times, and the bad. “From an early age, I was always impressed by the resilience of this community,” Morris says. “Nearly everyone in my family lost their jobs when the majority of textile and furniture industries left the area. The memories and emotions of that time will always stick with me.

However, the thing that will stick with me more is how each person in my family worked to reinvent themselves and to find a different career path. That is not an easy task, and the unexpectedness of this change intensified the challenge.”

A desire to help others is in Morris’s blood. Her father has spent countless hours mentoring the area youth through baseball, while her mother helped unwed mothers, and her grandfather spent years ministering to residents in a local nursing home. Morris says she now wants to follow in their footsteps by helping others. “Though MartinsvilleHenry County has faced challenges, it is the spirit of the people that will keep us moving in the right direction. These people may not always have a big title or a prominent position, but they are the people who make us great.”

After graduating from UNC and spending some time working in Cary, NC, Morris returned to Henry County in 2011. Today, she and her husband, Zach, live in Horsepasture with their young daughter, Maggie. Professionally, Morris is the Director of Communications & Marketing for New College Institute. The primary focus of her job is to get the word out regarding all the programs and services that NCI provides. “That can be challenging at times 24 Showcase Magazine |

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because we are a unique organization, and we offer a wide spectrum of programs and services,” according to Morris.

“Often, people will be acquainted with one aspect of what NCI does and not aware of the many other opportunities available here.”

NCI plays a vital role in the Martinsville-area community by creating opportunities for individuals to improve their career outlook through academic programs that align with industry needs. Morris explains, “I hear so many of our students say, ‘I didn’t think I would ever be able to reach this goal, but NCI made it possible for me.’ We represent an option for students to achieve their academic goals by offering flexible schedules, personalized support services, and affordable programs.” Students at NCI are connected with local employers and are in high-demand once they graduate. “We are proud of our students, and we want to continue creating pathways for individuals to succeed,” says Morris.

The future of NCI will align with the future needs of employers. “We are committed to adapting and creating academic solutions to meet industry demands,” states Morris. “These solutions will take many forms— post-secondary degrees, certifications, credentials, apprenticeships, professional development, and more.

In most cases, NCI works with a university partner (i.e. Longwood University, Averett University, University of Virginia, etc.) to make academic programs available here. This creates opportunities for individuals to expand their careers and accomplish their academic goals right here in Martinsville.”

And for Morris, that’s what it ultimately comes down to: being able to raise a family, have a career and make a difference in the community where it all started for her.

www.showcasemagazine.com

| November 2017 | Showcase Magazine 25

Feature A Musician’s Journey

A Musician’s Journey Mark Davidson Written by Paul Seiple Photos Provided by Mark Davidson

I

n 1984, popular music spanned many genres.

Tina Turner and Madonna ruled the pop airwaves.

With perfection, Prince blended R&B and rock with “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.” And thanks to MTV, RATT (with the help of Milton Berle) ushered in the beginning of hair metal with “Round and Round.”

Countless teenagers watched the videos dreaming of a career in music. For many of those who followed their dreams, music brought happiness.

Danville-native, Mark Davidson was 13, and three things drew him to music, “girls, MTV, and the desire to be cool.” He knew he wanted to learn to play. “My dad took me to the Ringgold Flea Market. We purchased my first guitar, amp, and a book on how to play. To this day, it was the worst guitar I have ever owned, but it made me so happy,” Davidson says. He had no formal training and wasn’t in the school band. “I taught myself to ‘play by ear’ learning from watching other musicians.” Soon after

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getting a feel for the guitar, he joined a few garage bands.

It began a lifelong love of playing music for Davidson.

“I can’t imagine a life outside of being a musician. I will be playing until my fingers won’t let me play anymore.”

He started out as a guitar player, but today Davidson considers himself a singer and song writer. “My love is the guitar, but I also play the banjo, bass, and piano. I perform, record, and produce all of my own music.”

Through the span of his career, Davidson has tackled many genres of music. He cites Lynyrd Skynyrd, Journey, Skid Row, Alice N’ Chains, and Eddie Van Halen as major influences. “Van Halen’s 5150 is one of my favorite records. Eddie’s guitar work and solos are tremendous,” Davidson says. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Gimmie Back My Bullets is another favorite. “There were three guitar players. You can’t be a guitar lover and not like this album.”

Davidson got a taste of the live experience at age 16 after joining the band Borderline which played primarily country and southern rock. “My first show was at the Festival in the Park in Danville. Most of the musicians were over 30-years old.” Even though he was much younger, Davidson didn’t have any problem keeping up with their playing experience. His age did pose one

problem. “Because I was still in high school, they had to sneak me into bars and clubs to play,” Davison adds.

Two years later, Davidson began to evolve as a musician and started writing original songs. When he was 21, Davidson joined Mister Meanor, a hard rock/heavy metal band. “I was really able to show off my guitar skills playing with Mister Meanor.” Not long after Nirvana

changed the landscape of heavy music with “Smells like Teen Spirit” grunge became popular. “In 1994, I started playing with No Excuses, an alternative/grunge band. This is when I began experimenting with recording music,” Davidson says.

In 2000, Davidson joined the Pizazz Band. “I’m fortunate enough to say I am still with them today. Pizazz is a band for everyone. We play music from every genre. It is not just about the music, we are performers.” When he joined the band, Davidson came out from behind the guitar to sing more songs. “The music we play is intended to get people out of their seats and on the floor to dance. If you’re tired of dancing, you are sure to enjoy watching the show,” Davidson adds.

These days, Davidson records and produces his own music along with some other local artists. His latest single “Is It Love?” is available on iTunes, Amazon, and Spotify.

Davidson has other songs to listen to on ReverbNation.

(Search markdavidson8). He stays busy playing local gigs at The Warehouse, Frank’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Kickback Jack’s, and the Main Street Cafe in South Boston. To catch Davidson with the Pizazz Band check out www. thepizazzband.net.

For anyone aspiring to get into the music business, Davidson says, “Don’t give up when it’s tough. It may sound a bit cliché, but it is true. I’m living proof you can make a career playing music. You don’t have to be famous have a career in music. Many people dream of becoming famous. For me, it was never about becoming famous. I love performing and making music. I’m fortunate enough to make a living doing what I love.” www.showcasemagazine.com

| November 2017 | Showcase Magazine 27

Feature Big Bear’s Wife

From the Kitchen of

Big Bear’s Wife Creamed Corn Macaroni and Cheese Written by Angie Barrett of BigBears Wife.com Photo by Angie Barrett

Heavenly white cheddar mac and cheese and tasty creamed corn come together perfectly in this easy to whip up Creamed Corn

PREP TIME: 10M COOK TIME: 15M TOTAL TIME: 25M YIELD: 8-10 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS 16 ounces macaroni, uncooked 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 2 cups whole milk 1/2 teaspoon ground dry mustard 1 teaspoon white pepper 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and diced 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated 8 ounces white American cheese slices, cut into small pieces 8 ounces extra sharp white cheddar cheese, grated 2 can (14.75 oz each) creamed corn 1 can ( 15.25 oz) corn kernels

INSTRUCTIONS GREEN WHIPPED CREAM • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add pasta and cook for 10 minutes.

• Drain and set aside.

• In the same pot, melt the butter.

Whisk in the flour.

• Whisk flour and butter together for 1-2 minutes.

• Pour in milk and whisk until smooth.

• Whisk in dry mustard and white pepper.

• Heat milk until hot and then add in cream cheese.

• Whisk until melted and smooth.

• Add in all grated cheese and whisk until melted.

• Mix in all the corn.

• Pour pasta into corn and cheese sauce mixture and mix well.

• Stir well and heat for 2-3 minutes.

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www.showcasemagazine.com

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Explore Martinsville

A Tasty Holiday in MHC Written by Heather Hoffman Photo courtesy of Martinsville Henry County Tourism

Dreaming of turkey legs and pumpkin pie? The season will soon be upon us, and we invite you to kick your Thanksgiving meal and traditions up a notch with some Martinsville-Henry County foods, spirits and fun!

ice cream pies are available in flavors such as pecan, pumpkin cheesecake, sweet potato, pumpkin spice, red velvet, German chocolate and more. Dippers offers pure, made from scratch goodness like no other.

Holiday Dishes served the MHC way Checkered Pig is known for their famous barbeque and ribs, but they also offer a delicious answer to those who would rather have their main course prepared by someone elsewhole smoked turkeys and bone-in honey spiral hams to be exact. Or, you can even opt for the Granny B’s Turkey Dinner or the Spiral Ham Dinner that include your favorite fixins’.

Orders are due the week prior to Thanksgiving and must be picked up by the Wednesday before.

Bread can be a very important part of any meal, especially around the holidays. Looking to impress your family this year?

Rising Sun Breads is an organic, nutritionally evidencedbased bakery specializing in artisan breads and bagels which are baked locally with no preservatives. They provide top quality, all natural ingredients, baked in an old world breadbaking technique. Round out your meal with some of their delicious dinner rolls, or pick up a coffee cake for an evening snack or sweet compliment to your morning cup of joe. Other treats are also available including seasonal pies, cupcakes, cakes and more. Rising Sun Breads will also offer Thanksgiving and Christmas meals that may be pre-ordered.

Need the perfect holiday dessert? Dippers Ice Cream offers a delectable menu full of bakery options that are sure to be the highlight of any dinner! Pies, bread puddings, cupcakes and Cocoa Trail Chocolates in Collinsville can also help with your sweets needs. Offering fudge, truffles tortugas and more, their goodies can impress anyone! Popular fudge varieties include: s’mores, butter pecan, peanut butter, rocky road, espresso toffee and more. While you are browsing, don’t forget that they do offer gift cards in case you are looking for a little something special for the gift giving season.

If you want to skip the cooking all together, Hugo’s Restaurant in Uptown Martinsville will be serving a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Leave the stress of prep work and cleanup behind and gather with your family and friends for a holiday spread.

Now that you have options to fill your plate, how about your glass? Hamlet Vineyards, located in Bassett, VA, offers a variety of wines to suite most palates including Pinot Gris, Viognier, Bottled Blonde, Rose, Old Virginia Red, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Sparkling Viognier. Pick up a bottle or two 30 Showcase Magazine |

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of your favorites during their weekly wine tastings on Sunday afternoons from 1-5 pm.

Preston Ridge Winery also offers a variety of wines to complete your holiday meal. Perhaps your friends and family would like to try a bottle of “The Taste of Martinsville.” Visit Preston Ridge during regular weekend hours to pick your favorite and stock up for the season.

If you want to treat your guests or yourself to a craft beer made in MHC, visit Mountain Valley Brewing and fill up your growler(s) with your favorite selection. Brewery favorites include the Vulture Roost Pale Ale and Fireflies in the Valley.

Vulture Roost Pale Ale is often referred to as their gateway craft; super smooth and drinkable, not too hoppy, with a mild apricot finish. Fireflies in the Valley has more hop intensity made with Citra Hops at the finish. For the fall season, Mountain Valley Brewing will introduce “Fall Into Winter,” a spiced nut brown. Plus, stay tuned for the winter release of “Gingerbread Stout.”

• Another holiday tradition in Martinsville-Henry County is the annual Day After Thanksgiving Concert at the Rives Theatre in Uptown Martinsville. If you are ready to get out of the house, or looking for a fun time to share with your visiting friends and family, plan to be at this concert featuring Erin & the Wildfire. Advance tickets are available as well as at the door.

Be sure to try a taste of Martinsville-Henry County this season!

To plan your visit or to check out what’s happening in MHC, be sure to click www.VisitMartinsville.com.

More details on these featured businesses and their holiday ideas can be found on their respective Facebook pages.

Holiday Happenings • If you are worried about the extra calories that you may consume, register to participate in the annual Turkey Day 5K presented by Miles in Martinsville to get your day started off right! The Turkey Day 5K and Family Fun Run is a partially wooded course that starts at the Martinsville YMCA and winds along the Silverbell Trail, the Dick & Willie Passage and then through Uptown Martinsville. Run time is 9:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Packet pickup will be held Wednesday, November 22 from 12-6:00 p.m. and from 7-8:30 a.m. on race day at the Martinsville YMCA. Register today at www.MilesinMartinsville.com and begin a new Thanksgiving tradition! www.showcasemagazine.com

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Not So Common - Common Sense

Simply put, the most important efforts, strategies, and initiatives that will result in improved student outcomes require Danville Public Schools to implement the highest quality and most engaging instructional strategies in every classroom every day.

Fortunately, Danville Public Schools has a rich history of high-quality performance.

In previous articles, my efforts to explain where we are now and how we arrived at our present level have been perceived by some as excuses rather than facts. The fact remains that we must become a highperforming school division [again.] As a matter of principle, I am yet to meet anyone who disagrees. Everyone acknowledges that becoming a high performing school division is not only an appropriate goal but a moral duty. Practically none agree on how to make it happen.

So how do we get there? First, we must agree that high-quality instruction in every classroom for every student is the right

Not So Common Common Sense!

thing to do. That is the easy part. The hard part is agreeing on how to do it and what it looks like. Theoretically, it means that what students are expected to know (the written curriculum) is planned, taught, delivered, and assessed with absolute consistency.

Practically, it means that what students are expected to know is clearly defined. In Virginia, this is the case for every student.

Learning expectations for every student in every content area are clearly defined in the Standards of Learning. In DPS, we are intensely focused on creating high-quality instruction in every classroom through strategic, targeted, and agile professional development for our staff that is designed to help improve learning not only for every student but also for every staff member.

This is difficult and challenging work that may appear to some as top-down.

Failure is not an option!

Second, it means that our employees (all of them) must be valued, supported, and empowered to do what they need to do

by Stan Jones, Superintendent to create high-quality instruction. Simply of Danville Public Schools put, telling people what to do from the top down does not work. The opposite approach — from the bottom up — is also not likely to work in an organization as complex as a school system. What works is blending top-down, bottom-up and middleout strategies with an unwavering belief among all employees that high-quality teaching is absolutely imperative.

What efforts, strategies, and initiatives are imperative to improve student outcomes?

A STRONG EDUCATION BUILDS A STRONGER COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Third, our work must be purposeful and our staff must be connected to that purpose. The job of an effective leader is to provide the appropriate guidance, direction, and support for the organization while leveraging implementation by empowering staff to interact purposefully in relation to desired results. Stated in more practical terms, empowering our staff to lead, grow, and own the quality of instruction is what will lead to improved student outcomes. This can’t be mandated but it can be supported and embraced. Effective teaching is the result of healthy collaboration among professional educators who demand and expect high performance as a standard for all not just some. Equity and excellence must coexist.

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

Fourth, capacity building prevails. Student outcomes should be viewed as a flashlight not a hammer. In other words, underperformance suggests that there is something we need to do, non-judgementally, to improve learning not only for students but for the adults. That something is building the overall quality of instruction for everyone in our system. Ultimately, we must accept that the learning is in the work. In schools, improving learning is not external to our work, it is our work! Failure to improve is not an option! www.showcasemagazine.com

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We have all had the Monday morning chat by the proverbial water cooler, “How was your weekend?”, “What did you do?” we ask our friends and co-workers. Shared stories of soccer games, dinners out with friends, or the occasional concert, permeate the conversations, while pleasantries and stories of lively weekends, are exchanged. But, often is the case for people with developmental disabilities, when asked the aforementioned questions, the stories don’t come. The reason is simple. Often, people with disabilities are separated, isolated and marginalized in society; and with that marginalization, the stories of nights out with friends, the new movie we just saw, or the restaurant we finally got to try, don’t come. But gone are the days of creating alternate environments and events that isolate people with disabilities, as if they can’t be in the world with the rest of us. While people with disabilities may need a little extra support to do the things they want to do, they shouldn’t be isolated from the world they live in.

While The Arc of Southside has begun supporting people with developmental disabilities to obtain and maintain employment in the community, we haven’t forgotten that there is more to life than work! How we spend our time outside of work varies for all of us. Some of us revel in the chance to hear the music of our favorite band, others jump at the chance to attend an old movie marathon at our local theatre, and others may feel the call of the outdoors for sports and athletic events. This natural desire to live a full life is why we developed a new service called Community Engagement. Simply put, Community Engagement means helping people to access and enjoy the things they love, the things that bring them closer to their friends and the things that they value.

The program is offered seven days a week, providing staffing support for people to do the things they choose, when they choose. This may mean providing transportation, exploring new experiences, helping to build connections and relationships with others who enjoy the same things, or any other need. Leisure activities and interests vary widely from swimming, playing basketball at the YMCA, volunteering at God’s Storehouse, going to movies, museums, science centers, baseball games, art classes, concerts, and fairs and festivals. Whatever the interest, staff are available to help people to do the things they enjoy.

The Arc of Southside’s Community Engagement program provides the support for people to go out and live their lives, to live “A Life Like Yours”, and to create their own stories to share around the water cooler.

For more information about the Community Engagement contact David Gusler at The Arc of Southside 434.836.3272 Ext. 102

Urgent care expertise looks like this

“I’m here to ensure that when patients come in, they are heard and cared for with the utmost professionalism and compassion.”

Vinit Jalandhara, MD Urgent Care Physician

At Centra Danville Medical Center, healthcare is more accessible and convenient than ever before.

We are committed to you – our friends and neighbors – and are eager to show you the next level in providing Excellent Care for Life.

Our full range of medical and surgical specialties include: Cardiology Mammography

Physical Therapy Plastic Surgery

Neurosurgery

Primary Care

Urgent Care Urology

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

Primary Care Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Physical Therapy Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5:30 pm Friday, 8 am – 12:30 pm

To learn more about our services, visit CentraHealth.com

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