Believing in Magic

Janet recorded this one from the pilot's seat of a real helicopter, perched on the roof of the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum and hanging about 10 feet out over Cork Street. A few weeks after watching a crane lift it into place, she climbs aboard with Executive Director Dawn Devine and Taylor Wilmoth to talk about how the "impossible" project came together, and why it matters so much for kids in our community.

Dawn and Taylor explain where the Bell 430 came from and what it took to make a former furniture building strong enough to hold it. They also walk through the full rooftop experience, from Discovery Basecamp to a wildlife tour of every continent and ocean. You'll hear about the many jobs helicopters do, from medical transport to firefighting, plus a brand-new Lego kit of the museum's building and everything you need to know before the exhibit opens to the public on October 23. Stay for Dawn's story of a community that "believes in magic," and why one look up at that roof might tell a child they can do anything.

EVENT DETAILS

Ribbon cutting: Thursday, October 22, 5–7 PM, hosted with the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber as part of the museum's Sunset Series. Adults only. Take a turn in the pilot's seat, visit the photo booth, and enjoy appetizers and live music. Public opening: Friday, October 23 Location: Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum, 19 W. Cork Street, Winchester, VA Tickets: Pre-registration recommended for everyone, including members (free for members). Walk-ins are welcome but not guaranteed because of capacity limits. Call the front desk for help registering. Tips: Afternoons and Sundays tend to be quieter, especially during nap time (1–3 PM). The rooftop closes when it's rainy, wet, or icy. LINKS & RESOURCES

Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum (tickets, pre-registration, and events): discoverymuseum.net Visit: 19 W. Cork Street, Winchester, VA Upcoming at the museum: Kids Art Club with Shenandoah Arts (first Thursday of each month); Free First Friday (first Friday of each month, 5–7 PM); Sensory Nights with Pioneer Pathways (dates rotate, check the website) Discovery Museum trunk-or-treat appearance: October 17 at the YDC THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations.

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