Briefs: Food Lion and NASCAR partner; Lunch with community leaders; Christmas parade; Scarecrow contest winners
Food Lion and NASCAR partner
Food Lion Feeds and Feeding Southwest Virginia have teamed up with local NASCAR driver Jeb Burton to host a food drive at the Greensboro Road Food Lion on Friday.
Food Lion Feeds was founded in 2014 by Food Lion to address food insecurity in the towns and cities it serves.
Customers and locals were encouraged to donate canned or boxed goods in exchange for an autograph from Jeb Burton from 10 a.m. to noon. All nonperishables are to be donated to support Feeding Southwest Virginia.
Some of the most-needed items included peanut butter, lean canned protein, canned fruits and vegetables, tomato products, beans, whole grain cereals and healthy snacks.
Growing up as the son of NASCAR legend Ward Burton, Jeb Burton competes full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 27 Chevrolet Camaro for Jordan Anderson Racing. Away from the racetrack, Jeb has a relentless passion for fun and is an avid outdoorsman and hunter who gives back to the community, a press release states.
Lunch with community leaders
The Patrick County Chamber of Commerce and the Reynolds Homestead announce this year's Lunch with Leaders event will be held Nov. 20, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Star Theatre, located at 318 Patrick Ave. in Stuart.
This ever-popular event with local leaders is a community favorite, a press release states.
For 2024, a light lunch will be provided by Food Country USA Patrick County Market. A selection of finger sandwiches, fruit, vegetables and dessert will be offered.
Confirmed speakers are Patrick County Grants Writer Beth Morris, County Tourism & Economic Development Director James Houchins, Robbie Williams of Branch Civil, Primland General Manager Will Rentschler, Tiffani Underwood of Patrick & Henry Community College & PC Education Foundation, Town of Stuart Town Manager Bryce Simmons, Kevin Brandt of Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation and representatives from Step Inc. Other speakers will be added once confirmed.
Attendees will learn about the projects happening in Patrick County and meet local leaders. Tickets for the lunch and presentation are $15 and available online at the Chamber's website, www.patrickchamber.com or call the office 276-694-6012.
Christmas parade
The festive season is just around the corner, and the excitement is building for the 2024 Martinsville and Henry County Christmas Parade.
This year, the parade is set to dazzle attendees with an enchanting theme: Mardi Gras Christmas with Lights.
In a delightful blend of holiday cheer and vibrant celebration, this annual event promises to be a spectacular showcase of creativity and community spirit. The parade kicks off on Nov. 23 with a pre-show in front of The Big Chair at 4:30 p.m. and parade starting at 5 p.m. Lineup begins at 2 p.m. on Cleveland Avenue.
Sponsoring this year's parade is Crown Holdings Inc., a leading manufacturer known for its high-quality metal packaging solutions.
The 2024 Martinsville and Henry County Christmas parade is not just a celebration of the holiday season; it's an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and enjoy the festive atmosphere, complete with dazzling lights and colorful floats.
Scarecrow contest winners
The Patrick County Chamber of Commerce announced this year's scarecrow contest winners.
In first place was Tax Scarecrow by the Visit Patrick County, VA Treasurers' office with 27% of the vote. In second place was Piedmont Community Services with their Piedmont Peanuts display at 15% of the vote. In third place was West Piedmont Planning District Commission with their Moonshine Mountain Spirits Heritage Trail with 13% of the vote.
