By Patrick Hurston
Despite snow, ice, and sub-freezing temperatures last Thursday evening, community spirit warmed McCoy’s Grand as roughly 60 donors, local leaders, and arts supporters gathered for a special reception and concert to thank those who make the theater’s work possible.
The evening began in the lobby with a 45-minute reception featuring wine, hors d’oeuvres and lively conversation. Guests represented a broad cross-section of the region’s civic and business community, all united in support of McCoy’s Grand’s mission to bring quality arts and culture to Hardy County.
Among those in attendance were Angie Zirk and representatives from Burke & Herbert; Moorefield Town Council members Jim Trommatter and Jason Fertig; Sheldon Arbaugh of PCB Bank; Fred Brooks and Drake Baker from Capon Valley Bank; Justin Evans of the Hardy County Chamber of Commerce; Beth See of the Hardy County Democratic Women’s Committee; Brandon Barb of Moorefield Collision Service; Jennifer Heishman of American Woodmark; and longtime community supporter Judy Ball of State Farm Insurance. The turnout reflected a shared commitment to sustaining the local arts scene.
As the reception wound down, supporters settled in for an acoustic performance by Thorns and Roses, a trio comprised of Emily Pratt, Mark Stickley, and Taylor Stickley. Both Emily and Mark are also McCoy’s Grand board members. The band’s set blended soulful vocals with rich instrumental arrangements, drawing appreciative applause from the crowd and providing a memorable highlight of the night.
“These donors, and this community, help keep the arts alive in Hardy County, and tonight was our chance to say thank you,” said John Brennskag, the board’s president.
The concert also marked a kickoff of sorts for McCoy’s Grand’s 2026 season, reminding patrons that even in challenging winter weather, the arts remain a vital and unifying force throughout the county. Brennskag said he was happy with the turnout and looks forward to future performances and community gatherings, including an inaugural summer concert series in the theater’s new outdoor garden performing space.
