These talented veterans, selected from among thousands of entries, are here
for a week of rehearsals and workshops concluding on Sunday, Nov. 8, with
a gala variety stage show and art exhibit at University of Houstonís Cullen
Performance Hall. Artists will exhibit their work starting at noon, and at 1:00
p.m. (C.S.T.), the music, drama and dance winners will perform in a stage
show backed by a professional orchestra. World renowned psychologist,
radio personality, columnist and author, Dr. Joyce Brothers, and local
television reporter and weekend anchor, Bob Boudreaux, will emcee the
stage show production.
"I am proud of VA staff, in Houston and in the medical facilities throughout
the country, who have helped to empower our veterans to use their talent and
creative self-expression during the process of healing," said Secretary of
Veterans Affairs Togo D. West, Jr. "Their participation here proves that it is
possible to triumph over illness or disability, and this magnificent show
celebrates both the talents of the participants and the accomplishments of VA
employees."
The Festival is sponsored by VA with the help of this year's co-sponsor,
Help Hospitalized Veterans, and long-time national sponsor The Recording
Industries Music Performance Trust Fund. It is hosted this year by the
Houston VA Medical Center.
The public is invited to attend the gala performance and art show. Admission
is free, but tickets are required. For ticket information, call (713) 794-7410.
For further information contact:
Roxanne Fischetti, VA Office of Public Affairs,(202) 273-5736; or
Kathy Salazar, Houston VA Medical Center, (713) 794-7349.
