Enjoy the River at Riverfest!

Saturday, September 20th

Sponsored by:
Three Rivers Outfitters
The Riverfest Committee

The Riverfest Float
From the Harrington Highway Bridge Area to Leaksville Wildlife Access with a stop possible at the Leaksville Landing access area to visit the special River Village area of Riverfest (River Village is sponsored in part by the Dan River Basin Association).
3.0 miles (1.5-2.5 hrs.)
$15.00 registration includes shuttle and t shirt for all participants.
All shuttles will start at The Leaksville Wildlife Access.
Reservations requested, please call (336) 627 6215
Walk up accepted if space is available the day of the event.
Shuttles starting 8:30, concluding at 9:30
Boats to leave put in at 10:00 a.m.
Boats to pass by Leaksville Landing --- estimated 10:45 a.m.

Note: Boat rentals for these trips available from Three Rivers Outfitters,
at (336) 627 6215 $25 per canoe or kayak. Reservations recommended

Guided Beginner Paddle
From Leaksville Landing to Wildlife access, with return shuttle to Leaksville Landing access. $20 per boat, including guide for these trips. Limit 8 boats per trip. Trolley will provide return shuttle. Approximate trip times: 10:45 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Visit Team DRBA at The River Village!

10 am & 1 pm "Henry the Heron" - Hey kids, Henry needs your help! Come meet Henry the Heron and learn about his wild adventures on the Dan River! FREE

11 am & 2 pm "The Incredible Journey"- Do you know where the water goes after a rain storm? Join us for a fun game to discover the incredible journey of water. All ages are welcome to play! FREE

12 pm & 3 pm "Stream: The Movie"- Calling all actors and actresses! We need a cast for the biggest blockbuster to hit the Dan River Basin. All ages welcome, no acting experience needed! FREE

10:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, & 2:30 pm “DRBA Casting Clinic”- Come to the river to see a demonstration of the various types of tackle used on our area rivers and see casting techniques. All ages are welcome. FREE

10:30 am, 12:30 pm, & 1:30 pm “Fun on the River Face Painting”- Hey kids, drop by to have your face painted! Canoes, kayaks, and fish are just some of the fun river objects offered. FREE (Donations to DRBA appreciated)

Enjoy the River at Riverfest!

Saturday, September 20th

Sponsored by:
Three Rivers Outfitters
The Riverfest Committee

The Riverfest Float
From the Harrington Highway Bridge Area to Leaksville Wildlife Access with a stop possible at the Leaksville Landing access area to visit the special River Village area of Riverfest (River Village is sponsored in part by the Dan River Basin Association).
3.0 miles (1.5-2.5 hrs.)
$15.00 registration includes shuttle and t shirt for all participants.
All shuttles will start at The Leaksville Wildlife Access.
Reservations requested, please call (336) 627 6215
Walk up accepted if space is available the day of the event.
Shuttles starting 8:30, concluding at 9:30
Boats to leave put in at 10:00 a.m.
Boats to pass by Leaksville Landing --- estimated 10:45 a.m.

Note: Boat rentals for these trips available from Three Rivers Outfitters,
at (336) 627 6215 $25 per canoe or kayak. Reservations recommended

Guided Beginner Paddle
From Leaksville Landing to Wildlife access, with return shuttle to Leaksville Landing access. $20 per boat, including guide for these trips. Limit 8 boats per trip. Trolley will provide return shuttle. Approximate trip times: 10:45 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Visit Team DRBA at The River Village!

10 am & 1 pm "Henry the Heron" - Hey kids, Henry needs your help! Come meet Henry the Heron and learn about his wild adventures on the Dan River! FREE

11 am & 2 pm "The Incredible Journey"- Do you know where the water goes after a rain storm? Join us for a fun game to discover the incredible journey of water. All ages are welcome to play! FREE

12 pm & 3 pm "Stream: The Movie"- Calling all actors and actresses! We need a cast for the biggest blockbuster to hit the Dan River Basin. All ages welcome, no acting experience needed! FREE

10:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, & 2:30 pm “DRBA Casting Clinic”- Come to the river to see a demonstration of the various types of tackle used on our area rivers and see casting techniques. All ages are welcome. FREE

10:30 am, 12:30 pm, & 1:30 pm “Fun on the River Face Painting”- Hey kids, drop by to have your face painted! Canoes, kayaks, and fish are just some of the fun river objects offered. FREE (Donations to DRBA appreciated)

New DRBA Merchandise Available

Show your support for local rivers and trails by sporting new DRBA gear! Items may be purchased on the DRBA Website, at our offices located in Collinsville & Eden, or at upcoming area festivals.

See the DRBA team at:

Sept. 6 & 7: Rockingham County Folk Festival in Wentworth, NC

Sept. 13: Bassett Heritage Festival in Bassett, VA

Sept. 16-20: Patrick County Agricultural Fair in Stuart, VA

Sept. 20: Eden Riverfest in Eden, NC

Sept. 20-21: Stokes Stomp in Danbury, NC

Sept. 27-28: Brightleaf Hoedown in Yanceyville, NC

Cotton T-Shirts

Available in black, tan, or grey
choice of Basin Map or Batteau image on back

$10 + $5 s/h

Long Sleeve Tech Shirts

Available in black only.

A snug fitting shirt designed for cold water paddling,
provides an extra layer of warmth and dries quickly.

$10 + $5 s/h

Quick Dry Shirts

(not pictured)
Available in tan only.

Choice of Basin Map or Batteau image on back.

Lightweight material wicks sweat and moisture
away from the body keeping you cool and dry.

$10 + $5 s/h

Note Cards

Set of 8 blank note cards featuring photos from around the Dan
River Basin including: the Smith River, Dan River & Philpott Lake.

Comes in clear box perfect for gift giving.

$10 + $5 s/h

DRBA Decals

6.5" x 4"

Show your support for DRBA on your boat or vehicle!

$1 + .50 s/h

More items can be seen on our webpage!

Click Here

New DRBA Merchandise Available

Show your support for local rivers and trails by sporting new DRBA gear! Items may be purchased on the DRBA Website, at our offices located in Collinsville & Eden, or at upcoming area festivals.

See the DRBA team at:

Sept. 6 & 7: Rockingham County Folk Festival in Wentworth, NC

Sept. 13: Bassett Heritage Festival in Bassett, VA

Sept. 16-20: Patrick County Agricultural Fair in Stuart, VA

Sept. 20: Eden Riverfest in Eden, NC

Sept. 20-21: Stokes Stomp in Danbury, NC

Sept. 27-28: Brightleaf Hoedown in Yanceyville, NC

Cotton T-Shirts

Available in black, tan, or grey
choice of Basin Map or Batteau image on back

$10 + $5 s/h

Long Sleeve Tech Shirts

Available in black only.

A snug fitting shirt designed for cold water paddling,
provides an extra layer of warmth and dries quickly.

$10 + $5 s/h

Quick Dry Shirts

(not pictured)
Available in tan only.

Choice of Basin Map or Batteau image on back.

Lightweight material wicks sweat and moisture
away from the body keeping you cool and dry.

$10 + $5 s/h

Note Cards

Set of 8 blank note cards featuring photos from around the Dan
River Basin including: the Smith River, Dan River & Philpott Lake.

Comes in clear box perfect for gift giving.

$10 + $5 s/h

DRBA Decals

6.5" x 4"

Show your support for DRBA on your boat or vehicle!

$1 + .50 s/h

More items can be seen on our webpage!

Click Here

DRBA Plans Fall Activities

Looking for something fun to do this fall?

Tuesday Morning Stolls

September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th

Join us for an easy-paced walking tour of the Gravely Nature Preserve. While on the 1-mile walk, you’ll learn the history of the Burgess Family Plantation that once stood on the land. All walks begin at 9 am. For more information, please contact Jennifer Doss, DRBA Rivers & Trails Project Manager, at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Smith River Float, Picnic, and Hike
September 6, 2008

Extend your summer of DRBA’s popular staycations with a Smith River Trails celebration on Saturday, September 6, a 3.5-mile float on the Smith River followed by a picnic and hike in the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve near Ridgeway, Virginia.

Meeting at 10:00 a. m. at the Gravely Nature Preserve on Eggleston Falls Road, we will launch our boats at nearby Marrowbone Creek Access to float the most popular section of the river, taking out at Mitchell Bridge. This section, rated Class 1, is suitable for novice paddlers.

For the first half mile of the trip, the river flows alongside the Gravely Nature Preserve’s high bluffs where paddlers can glimpse the new riverside Rhododendron Trail. About a mile farther on, Leatherwood Creek, on which Patrick Henry lived from 1779 to 1786, enters from river left. Paddlers often enter the wide mouth of the creek and take a leisurely side trip up the shaded stream to observe woodland wildflowers and birds.

After the float, we will return to the Gravely Nature Preserve to picnic in the Outdoor Classroom and then enjoy a hiking tour of the two miles of interpretive trails. Historic features include early twentieth-century tobacco barns and the Burgess Family cemetery, reminders of former owners of the property.

Participants in the outing are asked to bring boat, life jacket, hiking boots or shoes, lunch and water, to dress in layers of artificial (quick-drying) fabric and to sign a waiver.

DIRECTIONS:
To reach the Gravely Nature Preserve from U.S. 220 south of Martinsville, turn east at a traffic light onto Old Sand Road. Cross the U.S. 58 overpass and immediately turn left onto Eggleston Falls Road. Travel about two miles to the preserve, which is on the left, across from the foot of Old Mill Road.

FURTHER INFORMATION:Paul Johnson 434-579-7599 or kpauljohnson@yahoo.com

To arrange ride sharing for this event contact Forrest Altman at forrestaltman@mebtel.net

Be A Beaver
September 13, 2008

Calling all kids! Join us at the Gravely Nature Preserve to learn about Beavers and other creatures that live there. Enjoy a craft, games, and a hike. Program begins at 10 am. FREE! For ages 4-12. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Nature Crafts
October 15, 2008

Home school families and retirees are invitied to come enjoy Nature Crafts. Learn how to create your very own Native American Dream Catcher using objects found in nature and hear the legend of the Dream Catcher. The class begins at the pavilion at 10 am and will last approximately one hour. Fee: $3/person. For ages 12 and up; class is limited to the first 20 participants. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss, at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Oh Deer!
November 8, 2008

Calling all kids! Join us at the Gravely Nature Preserve to learn about white-tail deer and other creatures that live there. Enjoy a craft, games, and a hike. Program begins at 10 am. FREE! For ages 4-12. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

DRBA Plans Fall Activities

Looking for something fun to do this fall?

Tuesday Morning Stolls

September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th

Join us for an easy-paced walking tour of the Gravely Nature Preserve. While on the 1-mile walk, you’ll learn the history of the Burgess Family Plantation that once stood on the land. All walks begin at 9 am. For more information, please contact Jennifer Doss, DRBA Rivers & Trails Project Manager, at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Smith River Float, Picnic, and Hike
September 6, 2008

Extend your summer of DRBA’s popular staycations with a Smith River Trails celebration on Saturday, September 6, a 3.5-mile float on the Smith River followed by a picnic and hike in the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve near Ridgeway, Virginia.

Meeting at 10:00 a. m. at the Gravely Nature Preserve on Eggleston Falls Road, we will launch our boats at nearby Marrowbone Creek Access to float the most popular section of the river, taking out at Mitchell Bridge. This section, rated Class 1, is suitable for novice paddlers.

For the first half mile of the trip, the river flows alongside the Gravely Nature Preserve’s high bluffs where paddlers can glimpse the new riverside Rhododendron Trail. About a mile farther on, Leatherwood Creek, on which Patrick Henry lived from 1779 to 1786, enters from river left. Paddlers often enter the wide mouth of the creek and take a leisurely side trip up the shaded stream to observe woodland wildflowers and birds.

After the float, we will return to the Gravely Nature Preserve to picnic in the Outdoor Classroom and then enjoy a hiking tour of the two miles of interpretive trails. Historic features include early twentieth-century tobacco barns and the Burgess Family cemetery, reminders of former owners of the property.

Participants in the outing are asked to bring boat, life jacket, hiking boots or shoes, lunch and water, to dress in layers of artificial (quick-drying) fabric and to sign a waiver.

DIRECTIONS:
To reach the Gravely Nature Preserve from U.S. 220 south of Martinsville, turn east at a traffic light onto Old Sand Road. Cross the U.S. 58 overpass and immediately turn left onto Eggleston Falls Road. Travel about two miles to the preserve, which is on the left, across from the foot of Old Mill Road.

FURTHER INFORMATION:Paul Johnson 434-579-7599 or kpauljohnson@yahoo.com

To arrange ride sharing for this event contact Forrest Altman at forrestaltman@mebtel.net

Be A Beaver
September 13, 2008

Calling all kids! Join us at the Gravely Nature Preserve to learn about Beavers and other creatures that live there. Enjoy a craft, games, and a hike. Program begins at 10 am. FREE! For ages 4-12. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Nature Crafts
October 15, 2008

Home school families and retirees are invitied to come enjoy Nature Crafts. Learn how to create your very own Native American Dream Catcher using objects found in nature and hear the legend of the Dream Catcher. The class begins at the pavilion at 10 am and will last approximately one hour. Fee: $3/person. For ages 12 and up; class is limited to the first 20 participants. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss, at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Oh Deer!
November 8, 2008

Calling all kids! Join us at the Gravely Nature Preserve to learn about white-tail deer and other creatures that live there. Enjoy a craft, games, and a hike. Program begins at 10 am. FREE! For ages 4-12. Pre-registration is required, contact Jennifer Doss at 276-634-2545 or e-mail jdoss@danriver.org.

Charity Bike Ride Raises Money for Education

From left, bicyclists Steve Luke, Jim Frith, Brad Kindema,
Jennifer Frith, Dean Jarrett, and Marlin Yoder prepare
to begin the Tour de Scholar ride Saturday at Jack Dalton Park.

Article by AMANDA BUCK - Martinsville Bulletin Staff Writer

During the first Tour de Scholar Charity Bike Ride last weekend, 22 riders traveled three courses and raised more than $2,000 for the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s Education Foundation.

Although the ride was small in terms of the number of riders, organizer Sharon Shepherd said the event, which the foundation plans to hold annually, pedaled off to a successful start.
“For a first-time event, I was very pleased,” said Shepherd, deputy director of the chamber. “The ride was positive for the riders,” and she received good feedback from them, she said.
The event began Saturday morning at Jack Dalton Park. Bicyclists had three routes to choose from: a 5-mile course, a 25-mile course and a 60-mile course.

Two riders — a man and his 8-year-old son — did the 5-miler, in which they rode around the park’s track eight and a half times, Shepherd said. Sixteen riders chose the 25-mile course, which went through Dyers Store, Martinsville and back to Jack Dalton. Another four completed the 60-mile course, which took them through Martinsville, Fontaine, Ridgeway, Spencer, Sanville, Bassett Forks and Collinsville.

That course took the riders about four hours to complete, Shepherd said.
Among those who completed the 60-mile ride was Charlie Roach of Henry County. Roach, who has completed rides throughout Virginia and North Carolina and even in New York City, said the support riders received Saturday was remarkable.

“I’ve been on a lot of supported rides, which means you have people patrolling the route looking for problems, but I have never been on one with escorts,” Roach said. “I have never had that good of support on any ride, anywhere.”

Ricky “Big Bird” Holcomb of Big Bird’s Big Twins in Ridgeway organized volunteer motorcycle escorts to ride ahead of the bicyclists and help smooth the way for them. They were W.C. Wagner, John Richardson, Darrian Kammermad and Jessie Oakes. Roach said the 60-mile course was not easy, but he was glad he did it. “It was very challenging,” he said. “There were several climbs in it that were about all I could handle. But since I survived it, it was good.”
Riders who did the two longer courses paid $35 entry fees, while those on the short course paid $10 each. Shepherd said the rider fees covered the cost of the event, leaving money contributed by several sponsors free to go to the foundation.

The foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, funds an eight-month youth leadership development program for area high school students, a new faculty event for area educators and Partnership In Excellence grants that award teachers up to $500 for classroom use, Shepherd said. Going into the ride, which she said was the first of its kind in Henry County, Shepherd hoped to pull off a well-organized event that was safe and fun for the bicyclists. With rest stops manned by volunteers, refreshments and pizza after the ride and no safety issues, Shepherd said she met her goal.

“This was the key to getting participants to talk about the event to their fellow cyclists and to plan on riding next year,” she said. Roach, for one, plans to do just that. “I would definitely do it again,” he said. “Matter of fact, I wish they would have more of that type of ride around here.”
Sponsors and supporters for the event, which raised $2,029.57, were: BB&T, Le Bleu (Lawrence Distributing), Ridgeway Signs, Activate Martinsville-Henry County, Community Pride, the chamber, MURA and Henry County Parks and Recreation.

Charity Bike Ride Raises Money for Education

From left, bicyclists Steve Luke, Jim Frith, Brad Kindema,
Jennifer Frith, Dean Jarrett, and Marlin Yoder prepare
to begin the Tour de Scholar ride Saturday at Jack Dalton Park.

Article by AMANDA BUCK - Martinsville Bulletin Staff Writer

During the first Tour de Scholar Charity Bike Ride last weekend, 22 riders traveled three courses and raised more than $2,000 for the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s Education Foundation.

Although the ride was small in terms of the number of riders, organizer Sharon Shepherd said the event, which the foundation plans to hold annually, pedaled off to a successful start.
“For a first-time event, I was very pleased,” said Shepherd, deputy director of the chamber. “The ride was positive for the riders,” and she received good feedback from them, she said.
The event began Saturday morning at Jack Dalton Park. Bicyclists had three routes to choose from: a 5-mile course, a 25-mile course and a 60-mile course.

Two riders — a man and his 8-year-old son — did the 5-miler, in which they rode around the park’s track eight and a half times, Shepherd said. Sixteen riders chose the 25-mile course, which went through Dyers Store, Martinsville and back to Jack Dalton. Another four completed the 60-mile course, which took them through Martinsville, Fontaine, Ridgeway, Spencer, Sanville, Bassett Forks and Collinsville.

That course took the riders about four hours to complete, Shepherd said.
Among those who completed the 60-mile ride was Charlie Roach of Henry County. Roach, who has completed rides throughout Virginia and North Carolina and even in New York City, said the support riders received Saturday was remarkable.

“I’ve been on a lot of supported rides, which means you have people patrolling the route looking for problems, but I have never been on one with escorts,” Roach said. “I have never had that good of support on any ride, anywhere.”

Ricky “Big Bird” Holcomb of Big Bird’s Big Twins in Ridgeway organized volunteer motorcycle escorts to ride ahead of the bicyclists and help smooth the way for them. They were W.C. Wagner, John Richardson, Darrian Kammermad and Jessie Oakes. Roach said the 60-mile course was not easy, but he was glad he did it. “It was very challenging,” he said. “There were several climbs in it that were about all I could handle. But since I survived it, it was good.”
Riders who did the two longer courses paid $35 entry fees, while those on the short course paid $10 each. Shepherd said the rider fees covered the cost of the event, leaving money contributed by several sponsors free to go to the foundation.

The foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, funds an eight-month youth leadership development program for area high school students, a new faculty event for area educators and Partnership In Excellence grants that award teachers up to $500 for classroom use, Shepherd said. Going into the ride, which she said was the first of its kind in Henry County, Shepherd hoped to pull off a well-organized event that was safe and fun for the bicyclists. With rest stops manned by volunteers, refreshments and pizza after the ride and no safety issues, Shepherd said she met her goal.

“This was the key to getting participants to talk about the event to their fellow cyclists and to plan on riding next year,” she said. Roach, for one, plans to do just that. “I would definitely do it again,” he said. “Matter of fact, I wish they would have more of that type of ride around here.”
Sponsors and supporters for the event, which raised $2,029.57, were: BB&T, Le Bleu (Lawrence Distributing), Ridgeway Signs, Activate Martinsville-Henry County, Community Pride, the chamber, MURA and Henry County Parks and Recreation.

Smith River Fest a Hit!

We had fantastic weather and a huge turnout on short notice for the inaugural Smith River Fest, held on Saturday, August 23rd 2008. We hope to be able to make this an annual event. From surveys we completed we were able to establish some economic impact figures. It really showed how much this type of activity can mean to the local economy. Visitors traveled from distances as far away as Richmond and Charlottesville to participate.

There were over 240 boaters on the water that day and the most popular section was Philpott Dam to the North Bassett river access ramp. Special thanks to all the Dan River Basin staff and volunteers, the Franklin County Creek Freaks, Edible Vibe Cafe', the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department, and the Franklin County Swift Water Rescue Team. Thanks also to Congressman Virgil Goode and County Administrator Benny Summerlin. A very special thanks to Dominion and the Army Corp of Engineers for allowing a Saturday release of water from Philpott dam to make this event happen!

More Photos

http://picasaweb.google.com/bmwcaves/SmithRiverFest_August2008

http://www.dossphoto.com/

Martinsville Bulletin Articles

Water release draws crowd- Mike Wray

A green sales pitch- Johnny Buck

Smith River Fest a Hit!

We had fantastic weather and a huge turnout on short notice for the inaugural Smith River Fest, held on Saturday, August 23rd 2008. We hope to be able to make this an annual event. From surveys we completed we were able to establish some economic impact figures. It really showed how much this type of activity can mean to the local economy. Visitors traveled from distances as far away as Richmond and Charlottesville to participate.

There were over 240 boaters on the water that day and the most popular section was Philpott Dam to the North Bassett river access ramp. Special thanks to all the Dan River Basin staff and volunteers, the Franklin County Creek Freaks, Edible Vibe Cafe', the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department, and the Franklin County Swift Water Rescue Team. Thanks also to Congressman Virgil Goode and County Administrator Benny Summerlin. A very special thanks to Dominion and the Army Corp of Engineers for allowing a Saturday release of water from Philpott dam to make this event happen!

More Photos

http://picasaweb.google.com/bmwcaves/SmithRiverFest_August2008

http://www.dossphoto.com/

Martinsville Bulletin Articles

Water release draws crowd- Mike Wray

A green sales pitch- Johnny Buck

Ride the Surge!

Special Water Release Planned
Smith River
Saturday, August 23rd
Generating: 8am-12pm

The Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) and the Creek Freaks of Franklin County have negotiated with the Army Corps of Engineers & Dominion Power to have a special recreational water release on Saturday, August 23rd. The water will begin rising at the Philpott Access at 8am, North Bassett Access at 10am, and the Fieldale Access at 12:30pm.

The Creek Freaks will have a booth at the Philpott Access with club information, they will also be leading two guided trips. Participants must sign a waiver at the Creek Freaks booth in order to participate.

Visit the DRBA booth at the North Bassett Access for river information and to purchase cold water paddle gear and quick dry tops, only $10 each! Edible Vibe Cafe' will also be at the Philpott Access serving nature bars and coffee.

Photos of paddlers can be viewed an purchased by visiting www.DossPhoto.com.

Note: This trip is recommended for experienced paddlers only! The Smith River is cold with water temperatures of typically 42 degrees. For a fun and comfortable trip, it is best to wear quick drying breathable gear and splash wear. A life jacket is mandatory for all boaters who participate. Rapids on this section range from Class I to II. The river’s main hazard is it’s cold and swift current.

Dan River Basin Association:
Brian Williams 276-634-2592 bwilliams@danriver.org
Jennifer Doss 276-634-2545 jdoss@danriver.org

Franklin County Creek Freaks
Scott Martin smartin@franklincountyva.org

Lunch on the Run is Making a Difference

Martinsville, VA - Forty-eight year old, Barbara Thompson thanked Activate and the Henry County Bike Club for changing her life at a recent Lunch on the Run walk. After losing her job, Thompson was uninspired to do anything that she didn't have to do. "I was gaining weight and my cholesterol and blood pressure was high. I knew I needed to do something but didn't want to do it alone." Thompson saw an ad in the Martinsville Bulletin about Lunch on the Run, a group walk managed by Activate and led by volunteers of the Henry County Bike Club. She decided to try it out. Five months later, Thompson's blood pressure and cholesterol are both lower and her medication has been cut in half.

"I have met some terrific people and made some really wonderful friends. They lifted me up, encouraged me and provided the drive to want to better myself. I am walking regularly now and have started biking. If you told me months ago that I would be on a bike riding with traffic in Uptown, I would call you crazy. To have the wind in your face and friends by your side - it is a feeling that will stay with me for a lifetime."

Photo and article by Jeannie Frisco

Way to go Barbara! -JD & BW

Lunch on the Run is Making a Difference

Martinsville, VA - Forty-eight year old, Barbara Thompson thanked Activate and the Henry County Bike Club for changing her life at a recent Lunch on the Run walk. After losing her job, Thompson was uninspired to do anything that she didn't have to do. "I was gaining weight and my cholesterol and blood pressure was high. I knew I needed to do something but didn't want to do it alone." Thompson saw an ad in the Martinsville Bulletin about Lunch on the Run, a group walk managed by Activate and led by volunteers of the Henry County Bike Club. She decided to try it out. Five months later, Thompson's blood pressure and cholesterol are both lower and her medication has been cut in half.

"I have met some terrific people and made some really wonderful friends. They lifted me up, encouraged me and provided the drive to want to better myself. I am walking regularly now and have started biking. If you told me months ago that I would be on a bike riding with traffic in Uptown, I would call you crazy. To have the wind in your face and friends by your side - it is a feeling that will stay with me for a lifetime."

Photo and article by Jeannie Frisco

Way to go Barbara! -JD & BW

Families Reunite at Nature Preserve

Ridgeway, VA— Over the past few months, the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) has been putting together a puzzle of sorts. With help from the Bassett Historical Center, family members, and local citizens, they have been identifying grave sites at the historic Burgess Cemetery located within the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve in Ridgeway.

A special visit from descendants of the Burgess family this past week helped to put a few more pieces of the puzzle together. John Burgess 7th, Cherie Jane Burgess Dean, and Peggy Burgess Salamon, all great-grandchildren of plantation owner John Henry Burgess, traveled from eastern Virginia and Pennsylvania to spend time in the family cemetery. While visiting the cemetery they identified the grave of John Burgess 3rd, the plantation owner’s father, who died in 1835. “This was a great discovery,” said Mr. Burgess.

The three siblings also had the opportunity to meet a distant cousin, thanks to Nancy Bradshaw of Martinsville. Ms. Bradshaw, who is a local business owner and relative of the Burgess family, arranged for Judge Kenneth Covington to visit the preserve and meet the Burgess family and DRBA staff member, Jennifer Doss. Judge Covington was very pleased with the preservation of the cemetery where several relatives are buried, including his grandfather William D. Covington. Mr. Burgess and Judge Covington spent some time talking about the genealogy of their family and sharing information with each other.

Other projects are also underway to preserve the history of Uncle John Burgess, a former slave on the plantation. The new information provided to DRBA will be included in a family tree handout that will soon be available to visitors at the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve.

Self-guided tours of the Gravely Nature Preserve’s two miles of trails can be taken by picking up a brochure at the main kiosk. For information on guided tours and other programs, please contact Jennifer Doss, DRBA’s Rivers & Trails Project Manager, at 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org.

The Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve is funded in part by the Harvest Foundation, which invests in programs and initiatives in the areas of health, education, and welfare. Development of the preserve was made possible through a partnership of Henry County and the Dan River Basin Association.

Families Reunite at Nature Preserve

Ridgeway, VA— Over the past few months, the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) has been putting together a puzzle of sorts. With help from the Bassett Historical Center, family members, and local citizens, they have been identifying grave sites at the historic Burgess Cemetery located within the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve in Ridgeway.

A special visit from descendants of the Burgess family this past week helped to put a few more pieces of the puzzle together. John Burgess 7th, Cherie Jane Burgess Dean, and Peggy Burgess Salamon, all great-grandchildren of plantation owner John Henry Burgess, traveled from eastern Virginia and Pennsylvania to spend time in the family cemetery. While visiting the cemetery they identified the grave of John Burgess 3rd, the plantation owner’s father, who died in 1835. “This was a great discovery,” said Mr. Burgess.

The three siblings also had the opportunity to meet a distant cousin, thanks to Nancy Bradshaw of Martinsville. Ms. Bradshaw, who is a local business owner and relative of the Burgess family, arranged for Judge Kenneth Covington to visit the preserve and meet the Burgess family and DRBA staff member, Jennifer Doss. Judge Covington was very pleased with the preservation of the cemetery where several relatives are buried, including his grandfather William D. Covington. Mr. Burgess and Judge Covington spent some time talking about the genealogy of their family and sharing information with each other.

Other projects are also underway to preserve the history of Uncle John Burgess, a former slave on the plantation. The new information provided to DRBA will be included in a family tree handout that will soon be available to visitors at the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve.

Self-guided tours of the Gravely Nature Preserve’s two miles of trails can be taken by picking up a brochure at the main kiosk. For information on guided tours and other programs, please contact Jennifer Doss, DRBA’s Rivers & Trails Project Manager, at 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org.

The Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve is funded in part by the Harvest Foundation, which invests in programs and initiatives in the areas of health, education, and welfare. Development of the preserve was made possible through a partnership of Henry County and the Dan River Basin Association.

New River Photos

Local photographer Randy Sweatt has recently posted more river photos to share on his website from the July M-HC After 3 River Trips. See them by clicking the following link: http://www.pbase.com/rsweatt/mhstrip

New River Photos

Local photographer Randy Sweatt has recently posted more river photos to share on his website from the July M-HC After 3 River Trips. See them by clicking the following link: http://www.pbase.com/rsweatt/mhstrip

Calling all Skaters!

This coming Wednesday, August 13, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Liberty Fair Mall parking lot American Ramp Company will set up a complete skate park for local riders from the Martinsville and Henry County area to experience ARC equipment firsthand.

This is also an opportunity for city officials and local enthusiasts to gauge the level of interest in the possible future construction of a skate park in the Martinsville area.

The mobile skate park will feature equipment from each of American Ramp Company’s three product lines which will help determine which building method may be right for Martinsville.

During the skate session local skateboarders will get hands-on access to all the equipment, music will be provided, and ARC representatives will run contests, give away prizes, and will be available to answer any questions and explain the products.

Skater owned and operated American Ramp Company is located in Joplin, Missouri and designs, manufactures and installs skate parks throughout the world. More information is available about the company at www.americanrampcompany.com

Article by Jeannie Frisco, Activate Martinsville-Henry County

Calling all Skaters!

This coming Wednesday, August 13, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Liberty Fair Mall parking lot American Ramp Company will set up a complete skate park for local riders from the Martinsville and Henry County area to experience ARC equipment firsthand.

This is also an opportunity for city officials and local enthusiasts to gauge the level of interest in the possible future construction of a skate park in the Martinsville area.

The mobile skate park will feature equipment from each of American Ramp Company’s three product lines which will help determine which building method may be right for Martinsville.

During the skate session local skateboarders will get hands-on access to all the equipment, music will be provided, and ARC representatives will run contests, give away prizes, and will be available to answer any questions and explain the products.

Skater owned and operated American Ramp Company is located in Joplin, Missouri and designs, manufactures and installs skate parks throughout the world. More information is available about the company at www.americanrampcompany.com

Article by Jeannie Frisco, Activate Martinsville-Henry County

Youth Explore Nature at VMNH Camps

The Virginia Museum of Natural History provided a variety of programs for the MHC After 3 summer camps throughout the month of July. Groups of middle schoolers from seven sites each participated in both indoor and outdoor programs led by museum educators. In the classroom, Glenda Hairston led the groups through hands-on science experiments and machine building in the "Science Plus" and "Robotics" camps. Robin Jensen brought the groups outdoors to Fairy Stone State Park and the Richard P. Gravely Nature Preserve for the "Wet and Wild" and "Forest Explorers" camps.

Wet and Wild- This camp was all about the water! On the first day, students learned the importance of water conservation, they used water quality testing kits to monitor a stream, and they finished up by searching for aquatic macro invertebrates (this was the most popular activity of the day!). On the second day, the group paddled around on Lake Fairy Stone. While practicing their canoeing skills, everyone learned the history of the lake, what used to be there before the dam, and the lake's connection to our watershed. On the final day of the camp, the students visited the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve and hiked the new Rhododendron trail. At the end of the trail, the kids enjoyed the view and sounds of the Smith River while creating their own nature-inspired artwork.

Forest Explorers- While hiking at the Gravely Nature Preserve and at Fairy Stone State Park, the students in this camp learned all about the forest surrounding them. They explored the variety of life that depends on the trees, and they each "became a tree" to learn about succession and what trees need to survive. They also created their own "tree cookies" to represent their own life story. The groups were also introduced to GPS (Global Positioning System) while out in the woods. They were members of a Search and Rescue team that used GPS units to find pretend lost hikers, and they also participated in a geocaching hunt. All of the kids were also encouraged to increase their awareness of the forest, by looking and listening closely. The most common sound the students asked about was the loud buzzing of the cicadas which were very active on the warm July mornings!

Article and Photos provided by Robin Jensen, VMNH

Youth Explore Nature at VMNH Camps

The Virginia Museum of Natural History provided a variety of programs for the MHC After 3 summer camps throughout the month of July. Groups of middle schoolers from seven sites each participated in both indoor and outdoor programs led by museum educators. In the classroom, Glenda Hairston led the groups through hands-on science experiments and machine building in the "Science Plus" and "Robotics" camps. Robin Jensen brought the groups outdoors to Fairy Stone State Park and the Richard P. Gravely Nature Preserve for the "Wet and Wild" and "Forest Explorers" camps.

Wet and Wild- This camp was all about the water! On the first day, students learned the importance of water conservation, they used water quality testing kits to monitor a stream, and they finished up by searching for aquatic macro invertebrates (this was the most popular activity of the day!). On the second day, the group paddled around on Lake Fairy Stone. While practicing their canoeing skills, everyone learned the history of the lake, what used to be there before the dam, and the lake's connection to our watershed. On the final day of the camp, the students visited the Richard P. Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve and hiked the new Rhododendron trail. At the end of the trail, the kids enjoyed the view and sounds of the Smith River while creating their own nature-inspired artwork.

Forest Explorers- While hiking at the Gravely Nature Preserve and at Fairy Stone State Park, the students in this camp learned all about the forest surrounding them. They explored the variety of life that depends on the trees, and they each "became a tree" to learn about succession and what trees need to survive. They also created their own "tree cookies" to represent their own life story. The groups were also introduced to GPS (Global Positioning System) while out in the woods. They were members of a Search and Rescue team that used GPS units to find pretend lost hikers, and they also participated in a geocaching hunt. All of the kids were also encouraged to increase their awareness of the forest, by looking and listening closely. The most common sound the students asked about was the loud buzzing of the cicadas which were very active on the warm July mornings!

Article and Photos provided by Robin Jensen, VMNH