
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, September 29, 1994                   TAG: 9411100017
SECTION: NEIGHBORS                    PAGE: S5   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: NANCY GLEINER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

`SIT-DOWN COMEDIAN' PERFORMS AT OWN BENEFIT

It's not often a student performs at his own benefit, but freshman Mark Metzler has insisted on doing just that.

When William Byrd High School presents ``A Night Under the Stars'' on Wednesday , Metzler will be among the students and staff who perform instrumental and band music, dance, comedy and a variety of other acts during the two-hour show.

The school hopes to raise funds to help Metzler's family with medical expenses related to treatment of his cancer of the brain.

When Metzler was diagnosed with the disease in 1992, his mother, a Roanoke County teacher, took a year's leave of absence to care for her son. Under the administration's policy, she was unable to extend the leave and has had to resign.

After extensive treatment at Duke University, Metzler is wheelchair-bound and attends school part time. He also receives tutoring at home.

William Byrd Principal Robert Patterson heard of the family's plight and spoke with teacher Carol Webster, who had staged an earlier benefit for another student.

"It's amazing how many people have come forward to help,'' Webster said, from within and outside the school community.

WDBJ-TV sportscaster Steve Mason readily agreed to serve as master of ceremonies. Coca Cola, Kroger and Food Lion are donating to the concession sales. Other areas businesses are also donating time and services to ensure a fun-filled evening. Student, staff and local artists have provided works for the art show and sale to be held at the benefit.

Metzler, known for his wonderful sense of humor, has performed at Paul Newman's Hole In the Wall Camp and bills himself as ``the world's first sit-down comedian,'' referring to his wheelchair status.

The variety show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $4 for adults, $2.50 for students, and may be purchased in advance at the school. Donations are also being accepted and can be sent to William Byrd High School, 2902 Washington Ave., Vinton 24179, designated for Mark Metzler. For more information, call 890-3090.

by CNB