By Crystal McGough, Associate Editor
PINSON – The newly established Pinson Valley Arts Council held its first ever Valentine’s date night and charity called “Heart and Sole” on Feb. 14, 2023, at the Pinson Rock School Complex.
“Heart and Sole” was more than a romantic and entertaining alternative to standing in lines at pricey restaurants; couples who attended were also asked to bring a donation of shoes or a pack of socks to be given to homeless people in and around the Pinson area.
“This whole idea came from my sister-in-law, Pamela Ruff,” PVAC founder DieDra Ruff said. “I knew I wanted to do something for Valentine’s Day, like a Valentine’s dance, but she said, ‘Heart and Sole,’ and that we could collect and give away shoes – I liked that. Everybody’s got shoes that they’re not wearing. So, that’s why we call it ‘Heart & Sole,’ for the shoes, and to give from your heart whatever you can. Then we’ll just make it a date night. Everybody is looking for something to do on Valentine’s night. Couples are looking to go out to dinner or something like that. Just come to us, bring an extra pair of shoes, and you’re being a blessing as well as being blessed, because we’re going to feed you and entertain you. And bringing socks or shoes – whatever you bring – is being a blessing to somebody else.”
For only $25 per couple, plus a donation of shoes or socks, couples enjoyed catered food from Papa Sal’s in Clay, danced to music provided by DJ Drummergirl, and played games such as Bingo and “How well do you know your partner?” There were also door prizes, and plenty of beautiful decorations made by Pamela Ruff.
Sponsors for the event were Alpha United Ministries, Reginald Daniel LLC law firm, Munos Mexican Grill in Pinson, State Farm in Pinson (Jay Ellett), Downtown Gadsden Inc. (Kay Moore), Jefferson County Schools Director of Art Dr. Terrence Brown, and the National Association of Black Farmers, West Virginia.
As for the collected donations, Ruff said that a second event will be planned soon to give away the socks and shoes to the homeless, while also feeding them a meal. Those details are still to be determined.
“Once we collect everything, we’ll set up a separate date and let people who are in need go through the bins and get what they need,” she said. “And then we’re going to feed them.”
Additionally, Ruff said that the Pinson Valley Arts Council “Heart & Sole” Valentine’s event will become an annual event.
To learn more about the Pinson Valley Arts Council or get information on upcoming events, look them up on Facebook or call DieDra Ruff at (404) 379-0096.