National Veterans Creative Arts Festival begins

  • Published
WASHINGTON (AFNS) --  More than 120 veterans from across the country who are medal winners in national creative writing, music, dance, drama or visual arts competitions are preparing to attend the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival in Riverside, Calif., from Oct. 20 to 26.

"Creative expression is an important component of healthy living," said Dr. James B. Peake, secretary of Veterans Affairs. "This annual festival shows that real healing goes well beyond our patients' physical needs. Creative arts therapy has a key role at VA in rehabilitation and recovery."

The Creative Arts Festival, presented by the Department of Veterans Affairs, by Help Hospitalized Veterans and by the American Legion Auxiliary, is the culmination of a year-long fine arts talent competition involving more than 3,000 participants nationwide. 

The festival is open to all veterans receiving care at VA medical facilities. It is hosted this year by the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System and takes place at the Riverside Convention Center. 

"Crafts help keep me calm and focused," said Air Force veteran Sheree Kern. "Doing crafts helps me concentrate and helps to maintain my health." Kern was among thousands of veterans who took part in locally-based creative art festivals this year at nearly 100 VA facilities.

The artists will exhibit their work from 12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. on Oct. 26 in the East Foyer of the Riverside Convention Center. At 2:00 p.m., performers in music, drama and dance will showcase their talent in a stage show, backed by a professional orchestra. Award winners in the creative writing division will also take part in the performance.

Actress Bo Derek, honorary chairperson of VA's National Rehabilitation Special Events, will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies during Sunday's stage show performance.

Wendy Burch of KABC TV is expected to serve as the mistress of ceremonies at the opening event on October 20th.

In addition, actor and model Mike Vogel will be on-site to greet and congratulate all veteran participants at the Oct. 26 evening celebration at the convention center.

Mike Lynch, HHV executive director, and Desiree Stoy, American Legion Auxiliary president also will be in attendance.

Log on to the Festival's Web site for more information.

Comment on this story   (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

View the comments/letters page