November 2009: Encore Stage & Studio presented its Second Annual "Celeste Groves Award" to Leslie A. Lynch. Leslie received the award from Virginia State Delegate David Englin prior to the November 7 performance of Dracula.

Leslie has volunteered for Encore in multiple ways as a parent of performers, a member of the Board, an officer, Stage Door producer, and as a friend of the organization for over 15 years.

The "Celeste" is named for Encore's longtime executive producer and box office manager, Celeste Groves, who has set a "celestial" standard for other volunteers to aspire to. Mrs. Groves has volunteered for Encore for over 30 years.

L-R: State Delegate David Englin, Leslie Lynch, and Celeste Groves. (Photograph by Larry McClemons)