The Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society will celebrate civic groups at Founders Day on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., at the Historic Henry County Courthouse. The Keynote Speaker will be Joyce Staples who will speak on the importance and significance of civic duty based upon the teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr. A retired English professor of Patrick & Henry Community College, she serves as board chair of the Fayette Area Historical Initiative and board secretary of the Trinity Presbyterian Church Foundation. She is a member of the Boards of Directors of the Virginia Museum of Natural History Foundation and Grace Network. She is a member of the Martinsville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and is a past president of Piedmont Arts.
Staples will be followed by the following Distinguished Speakers:
- Martha Woody, Past President, Altrusa International of Martinsville and Henry County
- Brittany Scott, President, Charity League of Martinsville & Henry County
- Ralph Lawson, Past President, Martinsville Exchange Club
- Graves Anthony, Member, Bassett Kiwanis Club
- Lori Floyd, President, Martinsville-Henry County Lions Club
- Brad Kinkema, President, Martinsville-Henry County Rotary Club
- Charlie Bowman, District Secretary, Ruritan National
Participating civic groups will have informational tables with artifacts and membership information following the presentation. Former and present members are encouraged to attend and wear or bring organization mementos.
“The Historical Society celebrates annually those who helped to create and sustain our area on Founders Day,” said John Phillips, Historical Society president. “This year we recognize those serving our community. Joyce Staples will first provide a lesson on why we should serve, followed by presentations by those actually serving.”
Admission to Founders Day is free. The Historic Henry County Courthouse is fully handicapped accessible. The Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Museum will be open following the presentation
