Artist to 'Share Her Blessings' in Independence, Va.

            INDEPENDENCE, Va. (November 2012) – Environmental songstress Joyce Rouse (a.k.a. Earth Mama) prepares for the "Share Our Blessings" celebration with event coordinator Penny Halsey (left) and Grayson County Schools official Judy Greear (center).  Earth Mama will celebrate the release of her latest CD, "Blessings of the Universe", with live performances and CD signings from 4-6 p.m. on Nov. 17 (Saturday) at the Historic 1908 Courthouse, 107 E. Main St. in Independence, Va. The arts and culture event, which will benefit the Grayson Backpack Ministry, also will feature a children's art show, "Blessing of the Backpacks" presentation, bake sale, and raffle for three handcrafted quilts. Admission is free.  Proceeds from the sale of CDs, quilts, baked goods, and other donated products will help Grayson Backpack Ministry provide nutritious meals and snacks to children. Rouse describes her new project as "inspirational songs for the foreground and background of your days". The vocal and piano-centered CD takes listeners on a soulful and lyrical journey of gratitude, reassurance, hope and wonder with heartfelt praises of God and all God's creation. Earth Mama has been delighting audiences of all ages with toe-tapping music and green-living tips for more than 10 years, “helping heal the planet one song at a time.” Individuals may purchase raffle tickets for $5 each or five for $20 at participating retailers, including Guynn's Furniture, Square One Framing, Walter's Drugstore, and The Treasury.  For more information about "Share Our Blessings", call (276) 579-2254 or (276) 773-8529.  For informationa about Earth Mama's "Blessings of the Universe" CD, call (276) 773-8529, send an e-mail message to Joyce@EarthMama.org, or visit http://www.EarthMama.org.