Category: Strictly Observing

Parker makes theatrical debut with Wythe-Bland Foundation film

June 8, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

On the evening of Saturday, June 7th, my family and I had the honor of attending the 20th anniversary celebration of the Wythe-Bland Foundation at the historic Millwald Theatre. A capacity crowd gathered to celebrate this remarkable local organization, which has tirelessly dedicated itself to advancing the education, health, and wellness of our community. Executive Director Travis Jackson explained that the Foundation was born out of a leasing agreement between Wythe County Community Hospital and LifePoint Health. This strategic move has allowed our local hospital to offer specialized services and diagnostic imaging that previously required travel to cities like Roanoke or Bristol. Thanks to the Foundation, organizations such as the Brock Hughes Medical Clinic and the Bland County Medical Clinic can provide high-quality care and critical medical testing to patients in need—care that would otherwise be inaccessible. The Wythe-Bland Foundation’s impact extends far beyond healthcare. It has played a vital role in supporting our children’s education and well-being. Thousands of local children receive free dental cleanings and exams, and through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, they’re given the gift of books. The Foundation also makes possible field trips that enrich learning experiences and spark curiosity—opportunities many students would otherwise never have. In total, the Wythe-Bland Foundation has provided over $48 million in funding for a variety of transformative initiatives throughout our region. And on a personal note, I can attest to the profound difference this organization has made in my life. They’ve awarded scholarships that allowed my family and me to experience the health benefits of the Wytheville Community Center. They funded my wife’s participation in the “Fit for Life” program back in 2013 and have provided meals for us through the Open Door Café. My daughter is one of over 1,500 students who have received Hope Packs from Spiller Elementary School, giving her additional weekend nutrition at no cost. For an inter-abled family living on a fixed income, these are not small blessings—they are life-changing. While my gratitude to the Wythe-Bland Foundation runs deep, the main reason I attended the event was to witness the premiere of a powerful 35-minute documentary chronicling the Foundation’s past and vision for the future. This exceptional film was crafted by one of my dearest friends, Cory Parker, owner and operator of MountainCAP Media. Cory’s film was nothing short of extraordinary. With a filmmaker’s eye and a native son’s heart, he captured the breathtaking beauty of Wythe and Bland Counties in ways that even the most elite studios might struggle to match. His aerial drone shots of the Wytheville Water Tower and Big Walker Lookout were simply awe-inspiring. The message was clear and compelling: Southwest Virginia is not just a place to live—it’s a place to love and call home. Through poignant visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Cory illuminated the selfless work being done right here in our backyard. His work stirred emotion, evoking tears of gratitude for the people, places, and institutions that make this region special. Cory Parker is not only a genius behind the lens but also a truly exceptional person with a heart as big as his talent. The tribute he created to honor the Wythe-Bland Foundation, and this community is one that should elevate his name in the eyes of all who view it. As one of Wythe County’s finest residents, I couldn’t be prouder to call Cory a close friend. His generosity and skill are unmatched. In fact, he previously lent his talent to create a full-length concert video of my wife’s Tina Turner tribute show—a project that helped earn her a spot in the Chautauqua Festival lineup. So when Cory personally invited me to the debut of his latest cinematic achievement, I knew I had to be there. As we sat side-by-side in the Millwald Theatre, I noticed tears welling in Cory’s eyes as he watched his labor of love unfold on the big screen. It moved me deeply. I know the dedication he pours into his craft, and I know that his vision, artistry, and passion are truly one-of-a-kind. Wythe County may not yet fully realize the treasure they have in Cory Parker, but I hope this film will help change that. I certainly left the theater feeling immense pride, not only in my friend, but in this community we call home. It’s also humbling to reflect on the fact that the Wythe-Bland Foundation was formed the same year I began writing this column for our local newspaper. In the two decades since, we’ve all tried, in our own ways, to make a meaningful impact on the place we love. Considering everything our area—and the world—has experienced in those years, it’s astounding to see how far we’ve come. We remain a united community, filled with people who choose to be dream-makers rather than dream-crushers. That was the central theme echoed by the event’s keynote speaker, Jim Morris—the former professional baseball player whose inspiring story was immortalized in the 2002 Disney film The Rookie, starring Dennis Quaid. Speaking after the film’s conclusion, Morris praised the Wythe-Bland Foundation with heartfelt admiration. “This is a real community of dream-makers,” he said, borrowing from the title of his memoir. “This is a community that really cares about its people. I didn’t grow up in a place like this.” I did. And for that, I am forever grateful. To be a disabled person who’s been given a chance to have a meaningful career, to give back to the community I cherish most, is an immeasurable gift. Watching Cory Parker’s beautiful film, I was reminded once again why this is—and always will be—home.

Strictly Observing

Jerry and Judy Yonce celebrate 50 years of marriage

June 4, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

I was honored to be one of 150 guests at the 50th anniversary celebration of my dear lifelong friends, Jerry and Judy Yonce. The event took place at the beautiful Rocky Hollow Farm venue on Rose Hill Road, just outside of Wytheville. A touching slideshow of memories, set to a constant rotation of 1970s soul music, played throughout the event. The celebration featured extraordinary catering from Sisters Restaurant in Marion, complete with exquisite desserts—I personally sampled at least four different kinds of cheesecake that afternoon! Also on display at the Sunday event, held on June 1st, was a deeply moving scrapbook featuring clippings from Jerry and Judy’s engagement and wedding announcements in 1975, alongside a display of their original wedding glassware and china. The most touching part of the evening came when the traditional wedding hymn was performed. Jerry drew a big laugh from the crowd when he jokingly launched into a medley of “The Old Gray Mare” and “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen.” Judy then spoke warmly—and with some humor—about their rocky courtship, which began when she was just 13 years old. Their relationship was on-again, off-again until they finally married nine years later. “I figured if I got him to the church,” she said with a smile, “then we were going to make it.” Her tone then shifted to something more reflective. “There were three things I asked of Jerry before I agreed to marry him,” she said. “First, if he was looking for a girl just like the one who married dear old Dad, he needed to keep looking—I was not nearly as strong as his mother.” She recalled a vivid image of her late mother-in-law, a petite woman, single-handedly operating a garden tiller with no assistance. Judy continued, “I also told him I wanted to be first in his life after God. And if he ever stopped loving me, I wanted him to be honest and tell me. And if he ever cheated on me and I found out, I promised I would make his life a living hell.” Jerry clearly had no trouble living up to those conditions. Fifty years later, they looked as radiant, jubilant, and in love as the photos from their wedding day. Jerry is known throughout Wythe County as one of the finest cooks the region has ever seen. As the longtime head caterer at the Log House 1776 Restaurant, he is responsible for expanding not just my palate, but my waistline over the past 40 years. I often say that, when it comes to cooks, there is Jerry—and then there’s everyone else. He is a tremendously humble, kind, and generous man. As for his bride, Judy has been my friend for practically my entire life. She was my physical therapist from the time I was two years old. Beyond helping me with lifelong challenges related to cerebral palsy, she has been a constant confidant and counselor through both my darkest hours and brightest days. She has cried with me in joy and sorrow, laughed with me, and hugged me through it all. Her love and support have never wavered. As the minister of Trinity and Mount Olivet United Methodist Churches in Pulaski, Judy extends the same care and compassion to her many parishioners, friends, and family members. A devoted mother to Latricia and Davina, she is most proud of her only grandchild, Josiah. I was thrilled to finally meet him. I’ve heard stories about him since the day he was born, and it was an honor to shake the hand of such a gracious and intelligent young man—a credit, without doubt, to the loving but firm guidance of his grandparents. “Since the day we got married, Jerry has wanted to sing to me,” Judy shared. “I’ve never let him—until today. So I wanted to share this special moment with you all.” Reflecting on their less-than-steady early days, Jerry addressed the crowd with his signature humor and humility: “Judy remembers all of this so well,” he said. “But I don’t remember any of it!” Few people have given more to this community than Jerry and Judy Yonce, and even fewer couples have meant as much to me personally. I am so grateful to their equally warm and spirited daughter, Latricia, for inviting me to be part of this very special celebration. I am eternally thankful for the friendship of these two wonderful people and wish them many, many more years of happiness and love.

Strictly Observing

Daughter hones musical talent with Spiller choir

May 27, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

I was so happy when my daughter, Bella, told me she wanted to join the fifth-grade choir at Spiller Elementary School. My wife has the greatest voice I have ever heard, and I was thrilled when Bella showed her mother’s natural ability for pitch and tone. I knew Leslie Mabe’s quarter-century of experience as the school’s music teacher and choir director would provide the perfect guidance Bella needed to hone her God-given talent. When I first heard my daughter perform with the choir, I was overwhelmed with pride. I thought back to the time I heard Bella’s mom sing the national anthem at Withers Park to honor our local veterans. Now, Bella was singing it for the same reason, with her Coast Guard veteran grandfather’s newly etched name on the Wall of Honor just behind her. She and her peers did a superb job on “Heart of America,” a song originally written for disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina, which included a solo by Owen Dickens. The talent of their director in both choreography and vocals resonates through every number they sing. Their Christmas concert—delayed a full month due to inclement weather—featured adorable choreography, including bell ringing during Andy Beck’s arrangement of Paul O’Neill’s “Christmas Canon.” Brilliantly colorful flashlights held by each of the 40 fifth graders lit up the auditorium during Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” which was performed in complete darkness. Rounding out the twenty-minute program, held on January 16, were the opening Jerry Herman classic from Mame, “We Need a Little Christmas,” Emily Crocker’s gorgeous “Candleglow,” and Pinkzebra’s “A Very Merry Christmas.” I loved that my baby, looking so grown up, was right in the center of the ensemble. The repertoire was an excellent selection of beautiful, mature songs. I was so proud of the job Bella did. “She has done a great job,” agreed Mabe after the show. “It has really given her confidence and brought her out of her shell.” “Heart of America” was reprised for the spring concert on Monday, May 5, 2025, with soloist Corrine Brown, and performed a final time for the Run For The Wall presentation at Withers Park on Thursday, May 22. “For Good,” the heart-wrenching song from the Broadway musical Wicked, was also performed at both the spring concert and the fifth-grade graduation ceremony on Friday, May 23. That particular song was especially emotional for Bella. On top of being sad about leaving Spiller Elementary after six wonderful years, she couldn’t help but think of the dog we lost in March. Sophie had been by Bella’s side since the day we brought her home from the hospital. The farewell song was almost too much for all of us to bear. Stephen Schwartz composed this tear-jerking ballad, which featured a solo from Liam Martin. The vocal exercise “Galop” had the entire audience in awe with its remarkably fast scale notes and key changes. It even garnered special praise from their director. “That was a hard one,” Mabe admitted. “They’ve worked so hard on that one.” I can remember my fifth-grade music teacher, Melanie Rector, singing “I Am But a Small Voice” to my class thirty years ago. Now, my daughter has learned the same song—and performed it more beautifully than I ever could. Composed by Kenyan-born British artist Roger Whittaker, the song has clearly served as a teaching tool for elementary school students for generations. The same could be said of Mary Lynn Lightfoot’s beautiful hymn, “Jubilate, Hallelujah,” which blended English and Latin lyrics. The spring concert closed with “I Bought Me a Cat,” the Aaron Copland staple, which brought a somewhat lighter end to a very rich half-hour program. At the close of the concert, before awarding each member a choir participation certificate, Mabe praised the young singers. “With most groups like this, I can only do four songs for a concert,” she explained. “This group did six—and did them all well.” Bella and the other students were delighted whenever they impressed Mrs. Mabe enough to earn a cartwheel. During one after-school rehearsal, the group had earned two, and my daughter came rushing home to tell me the news. It was a red-letter day. Emily and I are so grateful to have had someone as caring, fun-loving, and talented as Leslie Mabe to nurture Bella’s own God-given musical ability. I was especially touched when she paused after the concert to pose for a picture with Bella and offer a final word of kindness. “I am so proud of her,” she said to me with a parting smile. As I simultaneously fight back tears and swell with pride, I can emphatically agree.

Strictly Observing

Happy 11th birthday, Bella!

May 27, 2025May 27, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

My only child, my daughter Bella, turned 11 years old on May 27th. That milestone has left me with a myriad of mixed emotions I’m struggling to articulate. She is growing into a beautiful, smart, and kind-hearted young lady, and I’m incredibly proud of her. Still, there are aspects of her growing up that I find difficult to come to terms with. For instance, I wasn’t thrilled that Spiller Elementary School hosted a 5th-grade dance for students who will be entering a brand-new middle school in Wytheville this fall. Children seem to be learning and encountering things earlier and earlier—things I didn’t become aware of until I was at least two or three years older than Bella is now. The idea of 10- and 11-year-olds having “boyfriends” and “girlfriends” feels premature to me. Whether I like it or not, though, it’s a reality of today’s world. I’m also struggling with the emergence of typical teenage attitudes showing up at such early ages. My sweet little girl—who once loved playing innocent games, like lying in the grass to find shapes in the clouds—now mimics Taylor Swift in outfits that feel far too revealing for someone not yet an adult. Still, Bella and I share many special moments as father and daughter, and I’m thankful we have more ahead. Every time I hesitate to buy tickets to a concert or event due to cost, I ask myself—especially as a disabled parent—how many more opportunities like this she’ll want to share with me. That thought often motivates me to say yes while I still have the means and ability to make it happen for her. We’re looking forward to seeing Ringo Starr again in Greensboro on June 18th. We also plan to attend Wicked when the touring production comes to Charlotte on October 19th. Bella, a big fan of Ariana Grande, invited me to watch the film adaptation of the Broadway classic. To my surprise, I really enjoyed it—thanks in large part to the incredible performance by the extraordinarily talented Cynthia Erivo and the rest of the cast. My mother is absolutely crazy about Wicked. She has seen it live on Broadway and twice more on tour. She read all the books and watched every film adaptation. When Bella said she wanted to see it live, I looked it up and was delighted to find that the tour was coming to the Belk Theater this fall. One of the highlights of this year for Bella and me was seeing Million Dollar Quartet at the Barter Theatre. In fact, we saw it twice—once with my wife (and Bella’s mom), Emily, and again thanks to the kindness of director Nick Piper, who arranged for us to meet the cast. They were a truly gracious and talented group of performers, and it was a moment we’ll never forget. I’m deeply grateful to my friends Amber Fiorini and Nikki Goodman for helping make that experience possible. The Barter Theatre in Abingdon holds a special place in my heart. I’ve made so many memories there since seeing my first play in second grade. I’ll always feel indebted to that institution and the wonderful people who make it what it is. It’s no wonder it has a global reputation as one of the finest theaters in the world—it certainly is to us. This year, Bella chose a new spot for her birthday party. Thanks to the generosity of my parents, she and three friends will be enjoying the trampoline park at Crossroads Social House in Wytheville on Saturday, May 31st, owned by local entrepreneur Nick Patel and his family. Afterward, we’ll treat the kids to pizza and an ice cream cake. Bella would never forgive me if I didn’t mention her long-time friends Olivia Hoback, Scarlett Spencer, and Aiden Boyd, who will be her special guests for the day. I’m very proud of Bella’s achievements this year. She was a member of the Spiller Elementary fifth grade choir. She’s always had a beautiful singing voice—just like her mother—and under the guidance of Leslie Mabe, she has started to hone her God-given talent. At her graduation, she performed a song from Wicked, moving all of us to tears. Transitioning to middle school has been emotionally difficult for Bella, though it’s only one of many challenges she’s faced this year. As many of you know, we lost our beloved dog Sophie this year. Sophie had been by Bella’s side nearly every day of her life since we brought her home from the hospital. Losing her has been the most painful experience our family has faced. Just two months earlier, we also said goodbye to our cat. We’re grateful for the many years we had with Sophie, but all of us have deeply felt the loss. We are a tight-knit family, and her absence is profound. In closing, I’m incredibly proud of the family Emily and I have built. Bella is the heart of it all—her beautiful personality and kind soul shine just as brightly as her outer beauty. Happy birthday to my sweet girl. I love her more than I will ever be able to put into words.

Strictly Observing

Mother’s Day ‘Beatlemania’ in Marion

May 26, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

On Saturday, May 10th, we celebrated an early Mother’s Day and my daughter Bella’s 11th birthday with a special outing to the Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Virginia. Yesterday, a Las Vegas-based Beatles tribute band, delivered a phenomenal 93-minute performance—an unforgettable gift for the two biggest Beatles fans I know. The show was a masterclass in tribute performance, featuring a 26-song set over two acts, with every song performed in its original key. It’s no wonder Sir Paul McCartney himself endorsed Yesterday as the ultimate Beatles tribute band. The four musicians—each portraying a member of the Fab Four—have been performing together for nearly 25 years, and their synergy, vocal range, and instrumental finesse were nothing short of astounding. The show began with a nostalgic clip of The Beatles performing “I Want to Hold Your Hand” at the Washington Coliseum in 1964—the closest the original band ever came to Southwest Virginia. With the mood perfectly set, Yesterday opened their performance with “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “She Loves You,” dressed in outfits reminiscent of the Beatles’ legendary February 9, 1964 appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. We were then treated to the Beatles’ first UK No. 1 hit, “Please Please Me,” followed by a heartfelt rendition of “All My Loving,” set against a Hollywood Bowl backdrop. The first act continued with hits like “A Hard Day’s Night,” “Eight Days a Week,” and more. The tremendous vocal blend of the group was very remarkable. When John Auker, performing as George Harrison, introduced “Yesterday,” my daughter Bella—who idolizes Harrison—was moved to tears. His speaking voice bore such a striking resemblance to Harrison’s that it caught her completely off guard. She became emotional again during his rendition of “Something,” which was beautifully faithful to the original. Rich Fazzi, portraying Paul McCartney, was equally remarkable. As a left-handed bassist like McCartney, his skill as a multi-instrumentalist shone, effortlessly trading between piano, and bass alongside Auker. As the group transitioned into their Shea Stadium-era costumes, we were shown archival footage of The Beatles’ arrival at the stadium, followed by their iconic introduction by Ed Sullivan. This perfectly set the stage for “Help!” and “Ticket to Ride.” Don Bellezzo, channeling John Lennon, delivered a stunning version of “Nowhere Man,” an autobiographical classic, and nailed “I Feel Fine” with impressive ease. They closed the first act with a rousing “I Saw Her Standing There,” bringing the crowd to their feet before intermission. “Sergeant Pepper just flew in,” quipped Bellezzo as the group exited the stage. “They’ll be here in 15 minutes.” Act two opened with a video montage of San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district at the height of the peace and love movement. The segment featured voices like Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia defending their counterculture lifestyle, juxtaposed against figures like then-Governor Ronald Reagan. With the band donning their iconic psychedelic Sgt. Pepper’s outfits, they launched into “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” title track of the album that helped define progressive rock. From there, we were treated to hits like “With a Little Help from My Friends,” “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” “A Day in the Life,” “Penny Lane,” and a raucous “I Am the Walrus.” Bellezzo credited “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” as the track that helped launch the peace and love movement. I couldn’t take my eyes off George Harrison’s rainbow guitar, while Lennon’s sunburst one was equally striking. Fazzi moved to the piano for a crowd-pleasing “Hey Jude,” and the energy only built from there. “Something” and “Come Together” delighted the audience tremendously with a very impressive vocal & high range of Bellezzo on the latter, followed by explosive Rock n Roll renditions of “Back in the U.S.S.R.” and “Revolution” from The White Album—the latter a powerful protest anthem of its time. Tony Felicetta possessed an incredible talent on the drums as Ringo Starr. He also embodied his effervescent personality. He properly amped me and Bella up to see the real Ringo Starr and his All-Star Band on June 18th in Greensboro, North Carolina. The night ended on an electrifying note with two encore performances: “Twist and Shout” and “Can’t Buy Me Love,” sending the crowd home with hearts full and spirits high. I want to extend special thanks to Don Bellezzo for graciously agreeing to an interview for my podcast, and for giving my family the chance to meet and take photos with this incredibly talented group. I’m also deeply grateful to Bob Watkins, the Lincoln Theatre’s new executive director, for inviting us to this remarkable show. It was an evening my family will never forget. To top it all off, the band gifted Bella a T-shirt featuring the silhouette of the Fab Four and the phrase “I Believe in Yesterday.” That’s no understatement—this group carries on the legacy of the greatest rock band in history with extraordinary talent, authenticity, and heart. Bella will proudly wear her new shirt when we see Ringo Starr live in concert next month in Greensboro. All three of us—especially Bella—are eager to see them again. Any Beatles fan would be lucky to witness what this exceptional band brings to the stage.

Strictly Observing

Why ”Millie’s Big Dream” is my best work yet

May 5, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

My latest book, Millie’s Big Dream, is also my dream come true. It says all the things I have tried to say in previous books about my relationship with Emily in ways I could never sufficiently express before. Relayed in a novel that combines romance with hardship, I relay the narrative in an honest, but lighthearted way. I use humor inspired by my lifelong fandom of I Love Lucy, while maintaining the authenticity of a real-life inter-abled couple. I wanted it to be romantic to inspire other disabled people who long to give and receive love, that it can happen for them, too. Of course, it is important to show the everyday difficulties that accompany your wife being your caregiver. It is a 200% effort every moment of every day. Oftentimes, however, happy endings do not accompany real life. Therefore, I took extra care to incorporate these unpleasant themes with a carefree tone. I didn’t think I could ever achieve it. I have made many unsuccessful attempts as a self-published author in the last thirteen years, but I believe Millie’s Big Dream has finally reached the mark. It has also helped me reach another milestone in my career, which is to become a bonafide novelist. The pandemic years were particularly difficult for our family, to the point where I thought we might lose Emily. If anything ever happened to this angel on Earth, it would destroy our entire family. As a result, I never expected my head to be clear enough to write another book of any kind, let alone in the world of fiction, where the entire workings of the world are dependent on your own creativity. However, not writing at all is stifling for a creative person. After a read-letter year of blessings in 2024, the current year dawned with the tapping into a well of creativity I have never experienced. My first and only novel up to that point, Face Value, took five years to write. On March 25, 2025, I released Open Secret, which only took three months. I had not planned to write Millie’s Big Dream on the heels of another brand-new book, but it just came flooding out of me. The book I have tried to write for fifteen years finally became a reality. I completed the initial first draft in twenty-five days. Now, I am ready to show it to you. Although this book is a dream come true for me, you’ll notice my name is not in the title. “Millie” is the character inspired by my wife. She chose the name because “Millie” sounded similar to “Emily.” Our surname is “Shanklin” and my character’s name is “Robert,” after two very dear friends of mine, Chase Shanklin and Robert Fallon, who were younger than me when they left the world way too early. I know their guiding spirits helped bring the book to life. At any rate, it is my wife’s dream of becoming the next queen of rock and roll that takes center stage in this story. Anyone who has heard a note escape her golden throat knows she possesses an otherworldly talent only God could sanction. The book follows her dream to rock and roll stardom with comedic mishaps and a blithe look at the real-life struggles of a person unafraid to think outside the box. Of course, no comedy is complete without the perfect supporting cast. Sarah Taylor has been “Ethel” to me for the last fifteen years, as best friend to both Emily and me. She acts our freelance publicist, agent, editor, chief advisor, and all-around lifesaver. Her character of Leitha, the closest name I could derive when I spelled “Ethel” backwards. She is every bit the flamboyant wealth of knowledge embodied by her character. Her husband, Chucky, the character named requested by Sarah’s actual husband Greg Taylor, is a composite of him and several of my other dearest friends including Jacob Sharitz and Jeremy Miller. Their surname of “Gardner” represents a departed friend of Sarah’s, Beavertown, Pennsylvania mayor Bill Wagoner. Take a look at the official description: “Meet Millie Shanklin, a voluptuous blonde with a heart of gold and a voice that can light up a room—if only she could fill a stadium. A talented nightclub singer with big dreams of stardom, Millie is convinced that bigger is better, and she’s determined to make both herself and her husband, Robert, the biggest fish in the pond. Robert, her wheelchair-bound husband, is a journalist and book writer who finds comfort in the smaller, quieter aspects of life. With cerebral palsy and a penchant for order, Robert’s steady career as a local columnist is everything he wants—though Millie has other ideas. Their contrasting personalities and devotion to one another make for some hilarious misadventures. Enter Leitha, Robert and Millie’s incredibly smart and relentlessly charismatic agent, whose advice is always well-intentioned but rarely taken seriously, and her husband, Chucky, who can be counted on for two things: a love of golf and an endless supply of sarcasm. Together, these four friends are inseparable and fiercely loyal, despite their wildly different personalities. In this quirky comedy of dreams, misunderstandings, and unlikely alliances, Millie’s Big Dream is a laugh-out-loud romp that proves that friendship, love, and chasing your big break are never as simple as they seem—but they are always worth the ride. If you love witty banter, lovable oddballs, and a comedy that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious, Millie’s Big Dream will have you laughing all the way to the stadium… or at least to the nearest golf course.” This book is so special to me that I am offering it in a pre-order special only. I will only be signing the first 100 copies. I am making them available to my readers prior to its official July 10th release date. To place your prepaid order of $20 per book, which will be autographed and numbered, visit https://zachcooley.us/millies-big-dream-local-pickup/, send money to paypal.me/ZacharyGCooley or www.facebook.com/zachcooley. You can also send or deliver…

Millie's Big Dream, Strictly Observing

Persuasions

April 16, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

In my February 20 phone interview with Dave Revels ahead of his May 2 performance of his Motown tribute revue, Shadows of the ‘60s, at the Millwald Theater in Wytheville, he kept me hooked throughout our entire 45-minute conversation with stories about being a member of the Drifters and touring with the Four Tops. However, he was particularly eager for me to report on his time as a member of an a cappella group. If you haven’t heard of The Persuasions, you are missing out on a collective talent that is otherworldly. Their iconic vocals have reimagined the music of U2, The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, and Barenaked Ladies across over two dozen albums. They have recorded with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, Jefferson Airplane, Aretha Franklin, and Bruce Springsteen. “This group belongs in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,” Revels, who became a member of the group in 2006 and later its lead singer and arranger, said. “It’s one of the most unique legacies in the history of music.” The group was formed in 1962 in Brooklyn, New York, where they sang on street corners. All the members lived in the same neighborhood, and some met in the park, while a couple of others connected in an elevator. Their group name was chosen based on the biblical fact that Jesus had to persuade others to follow Him. It was a fateful day in 1968 when jazz-fusion rocker Frank Zappa heard them singing over the telephone from outside a New Jersey record shop. He hired them on the spot to open his tour, taking them to perform in front of a segregated Virginia Beach audience. Surprisingly, the all-white, punk rock crowd went wild for their spiritual rendering of “The Lord’s Prayer.” From there, The Persuasions went on to open for Zappa at Carnegie Hall. While researching the group, I discovered Spike Lee’s 1990 PBS documentary Do It Acapella. The first song I heard them sing was “I Love You for Sentimental Reasons,” the Nat King Cole standard that has served as the romantic song for my wife Emily and me throughout our entire fifteen-year relationship. That nearly brought me to tears. As they told their story through song, the group reminisced about going to parties and locking themselves in the bathroom, searching for an echo to respond to their harmonizing. They didn’t intend to form an a cappella group, but became one out of necessity, as they couldn’t afford a backing band. While The Persuasions never claimed to have invented a cappella singing, they certainly revitalized it. By the 1960s, doo-wop groups singing on street corners had given way to the British Invasion and Motown sound, leaving a cappella as a largely forgotten genre. Despite record executives constantly dismissing the genre as extinct, The Persuasions stayed true to their art and earned the moniker “The Godfathers of A cappella” from the successful groups that followed in their wake, such as Boyz II Men, Rockapella, Take 6, and The Mint Juleps. The original members were Jayotis Washington, Jimmy Hayes, Herbert “Toubo” Rhoad, Joseph Russell, and Jerry Lawson. Rhoad died in 1988 while on tour. Russell died in 2012, and Lawson died in 2019. Hayes passed away in 2017. Washington is still alive and resides in Brooklyn, New York. Revels produced and arranged background vocals for The Persuasions’ most recent notable collaboration, a 2017 project with the Barenaked Ladies. “We recorded sixteen songs in under forty-eight hours,” he recalled. “We did them live on the floor, meaning there was no overdubbing.” On an album of Beatle covers, Revels can be heard whistling to “Octopus’s Garden.” Their last major production before disbanding in 2023 was a performance on Steven Van Zandt’s Soulfire in 2017. Revels made the decision to dissolve the group in 2023. Jayotis Washington remains the only surviving member of the Persuasions. With the dominant signature absence of bass singer Jimmy Hayes’s voice as the root sound of the group, Revels made the decision to dissolve the group in 2023. “As the producer of the group, it is my job to protect their incredible legacy,” he stated. “I didn’t feel like it would do justice to the group to continue touring, especially when the people who are responsible for that amazing sound have passed away. You can’t replicate it. I feel honored to have worked with four of the original five members and have dedicated the future to bring attention to their achievement and advocate for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.”

Strictly Observing

Symphony gives rousing tribute to rock queen

April 16, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

The Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra was in full swing on Saturday, April 5th, delivering a tribute to the Queen of Rock and Roll with Simply the Best: The Music of Tina Turner. The 85-minute concert was performed to a packed house at the beautiful and historic R.J. Reynolds Auditorium. Under the direction of conductor Michelle Merrill, the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra provided a gorgeous backdrop for a fitting tribute to my favorite female artist. While I typically find vocalists to be a hindrance in orchestral performances, the trio of vocalists selected for this program were surprisingly well-matched for the performance. Two-time Grammy Award winner Tamika Lawrence brought the rough edge needed to execute a Tina Turner song properly. She also connected playfully with the audience, bending and twisting to the songs, captivating everyone with her energy and the appropriate rock and roll flair of her flowing mane of hair. Broadway sensation Shaleah Adkisson had a surprising edge to her voice, which allowed her to execute Tina Turner ballads beautifully. She showcased a flowing voice without sounding overly conventional or parochial. Then there was Scott Coulter, who captured my envy from the first note that escaped his throat. Growing up as a young Caucasian male who only dreamed of being able to sing Tina Turner songs, Coulter completed the task with effortless ease—leaving those of us who couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket filled with a combination of jealousy and endless admiration. The 15-song program, spread over two acts, began and ended with “Simply the Best”—the song originally covered by Bonnie Tyler, which went on to become a distinct hit for the Queen of Rock and Roll. The title itself defined Tina Turner’s legacy. “We are here tonight because of I, Tina,” Coulter said, holding up a copy of Tina Turner’s 1986 autobiography. “This book has been with me in every home I’ve lived in—from my parents’ house to my current home. I bought this book when I was a teenager, using money I saved up from mowing lawns. The story has been a constant source of inspiration for me.” Her breakout hit, a cover of Al Green’s signature song “Let’s Stay Together,” followed next, spawning the Private Dancer album in 1984. This was followed by her signature number-one hit, “What’s Love Got to Do with It.” “This song has served as sage advice from my aunt and mother,” Lawrence shared. “When I had a history of dating losers, trying to convince my family that I loved the guy, they would respond with the title of this song.” I absolutely loved that the setlist also included a couple of songs from Wildest Dreams, the 1996 album that was largely unnoticed by the mainstream public but also sparked a record-breaking tour. It was during this tour that I had the opportunity to see Tina Turner live for my very first concert on June 20, 1997, at the Blockbuster Pavilion in Charlotte. Less than two weeks later, on July 2, she performed in Winston-Salem at the Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum. According to conductor Michelle Merrill, this concert was supposed to be a private event where she was flown to Winston-Salem by the makers of Hanes pantyhose, her sponsor for the tour, to see the place where the Hanes brand originated. One audience member even shared her presence at that concert with the crowd, leaving everyone impressed. Scott Coulter performed two songs from Wildest Dreams: the theme from James Bond’s Golden Eye and the John Waite cover “Missing You,” the latter of which Coulter delivered in a hauntingly beautiful rendition with guest pianist John Boswell. “When I saw Tina Turner as Auntie Entity in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,” explained Shaleah Adkisson, “that was the first time I realized that a singer could be an actress as well.” With that, she launched into the song’s main theme, “We Don’t Need Another Hero.” The performers then discussed how Tina Turner was the first female artist and the first African American to ever appear on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. She also sold more than 100 million albums as a solo artist and collected a dozen Grammys, along with countless other accolades throughout her 50-year career. The trio then offered a selection of relatively unknown tracks that Tina Turner performed while struggling on the road, including a little-known cover of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” as a member of the Ike & Tina Turner Review, a rendition of Bob Seger’s “Hollywood Nights,” and The Tramps’ “Disco Inferno.” The latter was a personal highlight of the show for me, performed with the full effervescence and soulful grit of Tamika Lawrence. The first half of the show closed with the orchestral delight of “River Deep Mountain High” before opening the second half with Tina Turner’s original “Nutbush City Limits,” which paid tribute to her rural Tennessee hometown. Adkisson joined Boswell at the piano again for an emotional rendering of “I Don’t Wanna Fight,” Turner’s last top-ten hit that served as the main theme of her biographical movie, What’s Love Got to Do with It, which showcased the horrendous abuse suffered at the hands of her ex-husband, Ike Turner. The evening culminated in the epic showstopper “Proud Mary,” brilliantly executed in both vocal performance and dance by Lawrence. She also nailed “Private Dancer,” complete with a dead-on saxophone solo from Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra member Ron Rudkin. The three vocalists then took the stage together for the final number, “Better Be Good to Me,” leaving the crowd in a joyful and celebratory mood. I must thank Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra Public Relations and Marketing Manager Joe Bolenbaugh for inviting me to review the show and giving me an evening I will never forget. I also thank my friend Jeremy Miller for getting me there. It was a fitting tribute to the one and only Queen of Rock and Roll.

Strictly Observing

Million Dollar Quartet rocks Barter stage

April 16, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

In 2017, I had tickets to see Million Dollar Quartet at the Barter Theatre in Abingdon. I was more than a little excited to catch this local adaptation of the historic night of December 4, 1956, when four pioneers of the rock and roll genre gathered under one roof for the first and only time in history. The mix of reality and myth surrounding the impromptu jam session between Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash at the iconic Sun Records—founded by Sam Phillips—has fascinated music lovers for decades. This remarkable night has inspired an equally amazing production. Million Dollar Quartet had just debuted on Broadway in June 2010 when my wife and I, newly engaged, visited New York City. But when I was supposed to see the show eight years ago at my favorite local theater, the lift on my wheelchair van broke down, causing me to miss what I assumed was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Fast-forward eight years: my wife, our 10-year-old daughter, our dear friend Jeremy Miller, and I finally had the chance to experience this unforgettable show at the Barter Theatre, the State Theatre of Virginia. Directed by Assistant Artistic Director Nicholas Piper, this electrifying 100-minute production is pure energy and joy from start to finish. It’s easy to imagine the thrill rock and roll brought to American teenagers during its explosive rise in the mid-1950s. After seeing Million Dollar Quartet, you feel as if you’ve lived through one of those groundbreaking early concerts. The actors portraying these legendary figures truly embodied their characters—not just mimicking their talents but channeling their spirits. As “The Father of Rockabilly,” Carl Perkins, Will Riddle was the true standout of the show. The story always leaves me with the deepest sympathy for Perkins. He wrote “Blue Suede Shoes,” which became the first record to top the pop, country, and blues charts. Yet, it was Presley who became forever linked to the song after performing it on national television during an appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” By 1956, some critics were already accusing “The King of Rock and Roll” of selling out to the movie industry, overshadowing his incredible musical versatility. Johnny Cash later recalled in his memoirs that Carl Perkins, could upstage Elvis in those early traveling rock shows. But after Presley exploded onto the scene as the first Caucasian to sing African American music, Perkins was largely forgotten. Meanwhile, in the distant town of Ferriday, Louisiana, another musician was listening: a wild, explosive pianist named Jerry Lee Lewis. Lewis had just signed with Sun Records and was on the cusp of releasing his career-defining hit, “Great Balls of Fire.” Played by Dominique Scott, “The Killer” is portrayed with breathtaking energy, acrobatic stunts, and a truly insane level of musical skill. He flips over the piano, plays it with his feet, even straddles it backward. When Phillips hushes him, he bites his fingernails nervously, as if barely able to contain the fire burning within him. Nick Voss brings swagger and charisma to his portrayal of Elvis Presley, capturing the essence of a man who changed music forever. Peter Oyloe plays Johnny Cash, the more grounded, big-brother figure of the group. “The Man in Black” serves as a mediator between the high-strung personalities of Perkins, Lewis, and even Elvis. At the time of the session, Sam Phillips—played by Adam Poole—is faced with a major decision: whether to sell his beloved Sun Records, which he built from scratch in a former auto parts shop, to RCA (where Presley is now signed). Phillips also hopes to renew Johnny Cash’s contract for another three years, unaware that Cash and Perkins have already signed with Columbia Records. The drama is driven by egos as big as the talent, making for a compelling and emotionally charged storyline. The supporting cast is equally impressive. Bassist Justin Bendel plays Carl Perkins’s brother Jay, while Mike Luchetti brings great rhythm as Fluke, the drummer. Cali Newman portrays Dyanne, a fictionalized version of Elvis Presley’s girlfriend, who contributes sultry renditions of “Fever” and “I Hear You Knocking.” Of course, all the beloved hits are here: “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “That’s All Right,” and “Hound Dog,” among others. But the most touching moments are the gospel numbers, which feature stunning four-part harmonies from the quartet. “Peace in the Valley” and “Down by the Riverside” are highlights that remind us, at their core, these young men were not just stars—they were Southern gentlemen and friends. Set designer Derek Smith delivers a visually striking version of the Sun Records studio, immersing the audience in the sights and sounds of that unforgettable evening. Every second of this show makes you feel you were there—not just at the studio, but at the dawn of something powerful and new in American culture. Million Dollar Quartet runs through May 11 at the Barter Theatre. Visit www.bartertheatre.com or call the box office at 276-628-3991 to reserve your seats. I’m beyond grateful I finally got to see this production. It was worth every minute of the eight-year wait. But trust me—it’s not an opportunity you want to miss. Thank you so much to my lifelong friend Barter Theatre Marketing Director Amber Fiorini and the wonderful Associate Director of Sales and Services Nikki Goodman for making it all possible. No organization in the world does theater like the Barter and I feel privileged when these incredible folks make my family feel like an extended part of theirs. All of my Barter experiences serve as lifelong treasured memories. This one certainly ranks among the greatest of all time.

Strictly Observing

Yacht Rock wows Millwald

April 16, 2025April 17, 2025 Zach Cooley No Comments

Yacht Rock Schooner made its triumphant return to the Millwald Theater on Friday, March 28th. Despite not receiving the sellout they deserved, the Wytheville crowd gave an uncharacteristically enthusiastic response, which made it feel like a full house. Named after a genre for the easy rock of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the term “Yacht Rock” swept the world by storm after a YouTube craze twenty years ago spoofed a fictitious meeting between Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins and their subsequent creation of the song “What a Fool Believes.” However, Yacht Rock Schooner offered nothing during its 2-hour show that resembled easy listening. Instead, they delivered a 25-song set list that showcased the rock and soul blend of pop music during an era when flashy trends and a lack of talent did not overrun the mainstream. Back then, pop music had to be polished and inventive to become number one, and these eight musicians from Atlanta, Georgia, showed us exactly how the professionals did it in an electrifying evening filled with songs by the Bee Gees, Steely Dan, the Little River Band, Michael McDonald, Jackson Browne, and many others. Each of the eight members walked out on stage with the presence of an artist who could carry their own show. No doubt they could have, but together, they were on fire. Brenda Nicole Moorer brought a soulful touch to numbers like Fleetwood Mac’s “You Make Lovin’ Fun” and “Thunder Only Happens When It’s Raining,” that Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie would surely envy. Moorer’s rendition of Barbra Streisand’s “Guilty” had an R&B edge that Streisand could only wish for. Her performance of Carly Simon’s “You Belong to Me,” with its sultry feel, brought half the audience to their feet by the end. Her fellow vocalist, Cleveland P. Jones, matched that soul on songs like the Doobie Brothers’ “Taking It to the Streets,” the Bee Gees’ “Nights on Broadway,” and Steely Dan’s “Peg.” A highlight of the show for me was drummer Ganesh Lee’s impeccable drumming and unstoppable vocals on two of my favorite numbers: Hall & Oates’ “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” and Kenny Loggins’ “Heart to Heart.” He delivered show-stopping performances in both areas. My lifelong hero, Phil Collins, has often said that singing behind the drum kit is difficult. Lee exploded that theory, effortlessly delivering Loggins’ breathy tenor and soulful growl while maintaining tireless drumming. To watch his swagger and precision at the drum kit was an awesome sight. At the very least, he never missed a beat and was the driving force behind the band, proving he could lead it with zero struggle. Described by Lee as the “blunt force trauma” of the band, saxophonist Jordan Shaloup stole the show several times, especially during the iconic solo in Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street.” The final song before the encore, someone shouted a request for the song just as the band was gearing up to play it. It was the perfect cherry on top after the band flawlessly performed two of my other favorites during the evening. When I thought Lee couldn’t top his performance of the Hall & Oates’ dance favorite, he launched into the fabulous yet rarely heard Kenny Loggins track “Heart to Heart.” We had a brief conversation a few days before the show, and I had to ask him if he had Loggins ready to play. “You know it,” he assured me. When that number kicked off, I flattered myself by thinking maybe he had me in mind as he played it, knowing I’d be in the audience. In fact, I wouldn’t have been there if Ganesh Lee hadn’t secured spots for my family and me. Interviewing him for his appearance at the Millwald Theater last year was one of the most exciting interviews I’ve ever had in my career. For him to invite me and my family to see the show was more than just an unforgettable evening—it capped off my week-long celebration of turning 40. Not only did he add to the festivities, but he also reminds me I could still be cool, even at an “over-the-hill” age. If I possessed even half the smoothness Ganesh Lee displayed onstage that night—right down to the hair and sunglasses—I’d never have to worry about going out of style. All the clichés about drummers catching the eyes of the ladies and the admiration of the guys came to life when you watch him perform. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to see this unbelievable show. I was also happy to bring my Aunt Pam along. Although she has spent her adult life in Raleigh, she returned to her native Wythe County to help me celebrate my milestone birthday. Having spent much of her childhood at the Millwald, she was eager to see its renovation and its continued success as a production house. She couldn’t have been more impressed with the results. We even had dinner at a revitalized version of another hangout from her teenage years, Burger Haven. The delicious food brought her back in time, and we topped it off with wonderful desserts from Frozen in Time. I hope that Yacht Rock Schooner will return to Wytheville soon. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that music lovers can only fully appreciate in person. These musicians are top-tier, and in a single evening, they turned our sleepy little town into the most happening place in America.

Strictly Observing