‘The most amazing Warwickian’

WARWICK — On Thursday evening, Aug. 23, Mayor Michael Newhard continued a longtime tradition when he introduced this year’s “Queen for a Day,” Terry Odell, director of Warwick’s Acting Out Playhouse.
It was the 12th anniversary of this special event held during the annual celebration of Ladies Night Out.
Newhard read the winning nomination letter submitted by Cindy Cornell, which described Odell as, “The most amazing Warwickian.”
Many Warwick residents are aware that Odell, a professional actress, singer, dancer and choreographer who has a bachelors degree in elementary and special education, is the director of the playhouse.

An ‘angel’

What they may not know is that Odell has been awarded an “Angel” certificate by Oprah Winfrey for founding the Pine Island organization CPR (Children Performing for Relief.)
In addition to helping feed African children, raising money for diabetes research and raising money for the Bi-Polar Association, Odell helped raise more than $1,000 for the victims of the Tsunami in Japan by teaching Japanese dance, songs and No (or Noh) plays to Sanfordville students.
She also led workshops addressing bullying and confidence-building to children in Middletown and Newburgh and in 2011, directed and choreographed “Letters to Daddy,” an original musical which deals with bullying issues.
Odell hopes to bring her passion for the arts to many students because she truly believes that the performing arts help children and adults overcome many obstacles.
As a dyslexic who also suffers from depression, she has learned from personal experience how the performing arts can save your life.
“I’m blessed,” Odell said, “to know, learn from and teach so many wonderful kids and to the have the most supportive, loving and understanding husband, Ted, and two incredible children, Mady and William.”

Fit for a queen

For the past 12 years “Queen for a Day” has been an opportunity for one woman to be recognized by her family or friends for her spirit, heart and selfless nature.
The winner also receives an assortment of gift certificates and merchandise from Warwick business owners. Thanks to the efforts of businesswoman Barbara Laurence, participating merchants contributed more than $1,000 in gifts and services that were presented to the queen.
Nomination applications are made available each year at downtown shops and anyone who believes he or she knows a person who deserves the crown is invited to participate. Members of the Warwick Merchants’ Guild then review the nominations and select the winner at a special meeting before “Ladies Night Out.”

- Roger Gavan