Evince May 08

May 2008

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May 2008

Table of Contents Around Downtown 2

Around Downtown South Boston

by Jerry Van Eimeren

3

Throw Out the Mess and Organize the Rest

by Joyce Wilburn

Mother, Me and Tea

by Lana Garfield

4

Points North Love Takes Center Sage at the North Theatre

by Dave Slayton & Janet Holley

Thousands Expected at Annual Festival in the Park

by Ashley Williams

5

Halifax County Festival Promises a Weekend of Fun

by Cathy Cole

Sharon Hughes Receives Jefferson Davis Gold Medal

by Lynne Bjarnesen

6

Believe

by Liz Sater

He Said She Said

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

Run for the Roses Comes to Danville

by Patsy Poteat

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Second Thoughts Grounded

by Kim Clifton

10 Calendar of Evince 12 Nano in Your Life

Nano for Your Head

by Chris Kepley

Around the Table Going Green!

by Annelle Williams

Danville Paint & Supply Celebrates 25 Years of Service

by Gordon Bendall

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Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Larry Wilburn

Why Do I Relay?

by Phyllis McCormick

14 DRITA Students Smarter Than Ever

by Deborah Morehead

Nominations Sought for Governor’s Awards for the Arts

by Lynne Bjarnesen

15 Stay Married Forever

So you’re Going on Vacation…

Will You Have Fun?

by Joey Faucette

Big Band Excitement from the Danville Symphony Orchestra

by Mary Franklin

An Afternoon of Music with Wayne Henderson and the New North Carolina Ramblers

by Lynne Bjarnesen

16 Visit Danvillle on Your Vacation

by Tim Robinson

South Boston

Adopt A Duck…

Race A Duck…

Save A Building

by Jerry Van Eimeren, Main Street Manager

Everywhere you look you see the signs of spring; the grass is green and growing; trees are blooming, and April showers have brought out the vibrant color of May flowers. The Town has had its spring clean-up and the flower baskets are going up on the lampposts. Everything is just ‘DUCKY.’ And now, on Saturday, May 17th, the Dan River in Downtown South Boston will be awash with 5,000 yellow rubber ducks. The numbered ducks will be launched into the river and will waddle toward the finish line while their adoptive parents cheer them on, hoping their duck will win the grand prize of $5,000 cash…or one of the other great prizes. The total of all the prizes is worth over $10,000.

It’s the first annual Ducks on the Dan Derby Duck Race for charity.

Destination Downtown South Boston is the presenting sponsor,

EVINCERE, INC. P.O. Box 2396 • Danville, Virginia 24541 © 2008 by EVINCERE, Inc.

www.evincere.net Publisher

Photo by Tony Adcock

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part in any medium without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Robert M. Sexton Publisher (804.285.0645) Contributing Writers Gordon Bendall, Lynne Bjarnesen, Kim Clifton, Cathy Cole, Joey Faucette, Mary Franklin, Lana Garfield, Dena Hill, Janet Holley, Chris Kepley, Phyllis McCormick, Deborah Morehead, Larry Oldham, Patsy Poteat, Tim Robinson, Liz Sater, Dave Slayton, Jerry VanEimeren, Joyce Wilburn, Larry Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Ashley Williams, Editor EmylJenkins Jenkins Editor (804.285.0644) Managing Editor Joyce Wilburn Managing Editor (434.799.3160) Associate Editor Larry G. Aaron Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden)

On the Cover:

along with support from several other corporate sponsors, and for just a $5 donation you will have the opportunity to ‘adopt’ a duck(s) in the race.

The proceeds will go to DDSB a non-profit corporation committed to restoring the Historic Downtown to the original grandeur, while preserving the heritage and small town values of the community. The race will help in DDSB’s effort to restore the last remaining historic tobacco warehouse in Downtown.

In addition, a portion of the

Graphic Designer Kim Demont

Sales Manager Cathy Farley (434.793.7767) Sales Sales Associates Christi Ingram (434.836.1319) ChristiIngram Anthony Bigelow (434.489.6181) abigelow7857@verizon.net Sales Associate & Distribution Kim Demont (434.836.1247) Printer McCain Printing Company, Inc. EVINCE is a member of the Virginia Press Association, first place winner of the prestiguous PIVA award in its category for five straight years, and winner of Virginia Press Association awards for 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and Virginia Press Women’s Competition Awards for 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004.

Editorial Policies:

EVINCE is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute EVINCE free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers.

We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

proceeds from this family funday event will go to several other Halifax County charities.

There will be a picnic in the park with music, food, kids’ games and activities in Constitution Square Downtown beginning at noon.

The Duck Race is at 2 p.m. You do not have to be present to win!

For more information, call the Quackline at 434-575-6246 or visit www.ducksonthedan.com

For subscription: Mail your name, address, phone number, and a check for $15 (12 issues) made payable to Joyce Wilburn, Managing Editor, to EVINCE Subscription, P.O. Box 2396, Danville, VA 24541.

Deadline for submission of June stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20.

We now accept Visa, MC, and Discover for ad payments

evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW MISSION STATEMENT EVINCE is a monthly publication, which focuses on arts & entertainment in the surrounding area through an array of features, articles, columns, and photographic essays. Its primary objective is to inform and educate the community of opportunities, organizations, and events in all areas of the arts. In addition, it is the vision of EVINCE to enrich the cultural awareness and develop support for the arts in the entire community.

How to submit information to EVINCE: Please send all information in electronic form to e-mail address evince For calendar information, please submit e-mail to calendar To submit information, please copy and paste the text information into the body of the e-mail. We do not accept any e-mail attachments due to the very real danger of Microsoft-supported computer viruses.

May 2008

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Throw Out the Mess and Organize the Rest You Are What You Think

by Joyce Wilburn

Most of the time when there is a conversation about organizing, the focus is on rooms, drawers, closets, or storage space. However, there is something even more important than throwing out the mess and organizing your physical world. It’s reducing your mental clutter.

Your mind is like the crowded storage space in your home, and just like that attic that probably needs reorganizing, so does your mind.

First, throw out the mental mess of useless worry, negative thoughts, and bad attitudes. When a mental tape starts to play that includes one of these, stop it immediately.

There was a time when I worried about things I couldn’t control. It took a lot of energy and deprived me of enjoying the present. So, when a worrisome thought about something outside my realm of power arose, I told myself I’d worry about it only on Saturday morning. Of course, when the weekend arrived, the problem either no longer existed, I’d forgotten about it, or I was too busy having fun to be troubled.

On the other hand, if the worry is persistent and it’s something you can control, find help and take the first step toward resolving it. Even something as simple as making a phone call or starting a conversation is a move in the right direction.

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To rid yourself of negative thoughts, talk to yourself as you would to a best friend with compliments and encouragement.

Find something good to say about those who annoy you and shock them with your acts of kindness and forgiveness.

For example, if a coworker is the source of your negative thoughts, instead of complaining or arguing, help her to be promoted out of your office.

Bad attitudes. Who has space for that?

You are probably as happy as you want to be. Although you cannot control what others say, think, or do, you can control your reactions to it.

When I was in elementary school, I was bullied by a group of classmates on the playground. My girlfriends and I were jumping rope when the “cool” kids broke into line and took over the game. I was so pleased that they finally wanted to play with me, I didn’t realize they were trying to bully us. My naïve positive attitude turned a potential volatile incident into just another lunch recess. In hindsight, that recess was fun for me and probably a little disappointing for the bullies.

Once the mental clutter of worry, negative thoughts, and bad attitudes are gone, be careful how you fill the empty space. Open your mind to new experiences – at least one a day.

Listen to music with positive lyrics and read upbeat news (such as Evince). It’s important to know the day’s news, but take a break occasionally from all the negativity.

Some mornings I listen to the Spanish radio station because I can’t understand a word being said and the music is uplifting.

Violent shows and video games are like garbage for the mind. You wouldn’t put

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garbage in your stomach, so why put it in your brain?

Finally, before going to sleep each night, think of three things for which you are grateful and why. What you focus on will grow during the day and provide food for sweet dreams at night.

In the morning, when you awaken, your mind will be refreshed, and tackling that physical mess will be much easier.

Mother, Me, and Tea

by Lana Garfield

Why not honor your mother and grandmothers on Mother’s Day weekend by doing something totally different in a most unique location?

The Danville Education, Arts and Cultural Center on Main Street is sponsoring a free Mother, Me and Tea in their beautifully restored historic ballroom on Mother’s Day weekend. Throughout the day, local individuals, schools, and churches will showcase their musical and theatrical talents, including Abundant Life Mission Outreach, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, Kumba African Dance, Westover Christian Academy, GW High School, Bonner, Sacred Heart, Westwood and Twin Springs Schools.

Other highlights will include an exhibit by the Danville Art League, a Baby Bottle Boomerang fundraiser by Little Life Pregnancy Crisis Center, and

DEACC Business Director Lana Garfield (top left) poses with her three daughters, Shelby, Sydney, and Abbey.

a raffle by God’s Pit Crew. Compson Studios will take mother/daughter portraits; Willow Tree Massage will offer chair massages, and Bronx Boy Bagel will sell delicious lunches.

Dana’s Garden Spot will have beautiful potted plants and ferns for sale, and Zinc Total Salon will offer beauty tips and gift baskets.

Bring your favorite lady to shop, dine, be pampered and enjoy the entertainment as you partake of the tea and cookies, which DEACC provides for guests on Saturday, May 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

DEACC is located at 769 Main Street across from the former YWCA. For more information call 434.710.0588

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POINTS NORTH Love Takes Center Stage at the North Theatre

by Dave Slayton and Janet Holley All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.

When Barbara Winkler Brande and Walter Sean Davis heard that famous line at Galileo High School’s production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It at the North Theatre in mid-February, not only did the line ring true to them, they knew they had found the perfect place for their wedding. And what a celebration it was!

A few weeks later, guests filing through the theatre lobby were handed freshly popped corn in keepsake cones engraved with the couple’s names and the wedding date, February 29, 2008. While an eclectic mix of background music filled the 1940s renovated theatre, everyone settled in comfortable red velvety seats and waited for the traditional bridal procession to an untraditional site—a stage

usually reserved for musicians, plays, and movies.

Following the heartfelt ceremony in which promises were sealed with rings designed by the couple, Stevie Wonder’s soulful rendition of Signed, Sealed, Delivered filled the theatre as white balloons dropped from the ceiling.

While the children in the audience burst the balloons in celebration, the newly married couple made their way to the reception in the upstairs art gallery.

This event was significant for Barbara and Sean and for the North Theatre. Barbara, a realtor with ERA Holley and Lewis Realty Company, and Sean, a mechanical engineer at Luna Technology, showed their commitment to each other and to Danville by choosing the landmark North Theatre for their wedding and Danville for their home. Following their honeymoon, the couple returned to Sutherlin Avenue where they are renovating a house and making a new home in the historic district.

Yes, Barbara and Sean have chosen Danville for their stage and each other to be the stars in this play called Marriage, whose final line is…

And they lived happily ever after.

Thousands Expected at Annual Festival in the Park

by Ashley Williams Special Projects Coordinator for the Danville Welcome Center

Join in the festivities to celebrate Spring at the 34th Annual Festival in the Park on May 16-18.

Live music by local and regional groups will fill the air as you browse through the wares of over a hundred crafters and artists and munch on great food in Danville’s beautiful Ballou Park.

Friday night’s musical entertainment schedule on the main stage includes a mixture of jazz and rock & roll. Saturday begins with local entertainment followed by country music favorites, Ricochet at 4 p.m., and Confederate Railroad at 6:00 p.m. Sunday’s bands will take you to the beach at 1:30 p.m. with 58 West, followed by Backstreet at 2:45 p.m. and Shaggie Maggie at 4:00 p.m. And Gospel enthusiasts will not want to miss the entertainment at 5:30 p.m.

On Friday and Saturday, 50 chefs from across America will compete for over $21,000 in prizes in the 8th Annual Pigs in the Park, a

Virginia State BBQ Cook-off sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society. This year’s event will also feature food preparation exhibits by Southern Living. Visit www. SouthernLivingBBQonTour. com for time and more information.

For the outdoors crowd, there’s the Nestle 5K Race on Saturday.

The children’s fun run starts at 8:30 a.m and the 5K walk/run/ wheelchair race begins at 9 a.m.

First- time walkers, runners, and wheelchair participants are encouraged to register and compete with seasoned athletes, who will be vying for the gold.

Proceeds will benefit Danville Therapeutic Recreation Center and Special Olympics.

But don’t forget the indoor exhibits. For the healthconscious, there’s the 5th Annual

May 2008

photo by Holley-Slayton

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For more information about the North Theatre, 629 North Main Street, call 434.792.2700 or visit www.norththreatre.com. Upcoming events include: Last Chance Prom on Saturday, May 3, from 8 p.m. to midnight--food, drink, DJ music, raffle, crowning of the King and Queen. Tickets are $20 single/$35couple. You must be 21 or older. Get Lynched! May 9-11 A David Lynch festival of three films: Friday night at 7:30 Eraserhead; Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Inland Empire; Sunday at 3:30 p.m. One, a documentary on David Lynch and the making of Inland Empire. A weekend ticket is $15.00. Single tickets are $7.00.

Health Fair on the second floor of the Ballou Nature Center where you can receive a free health screening, check your blood pressure, and have health questions answered by representatives from 15 difference agencies. And on the lower level of the Ballou Recreation Center, the Youth Art Gala will feature the work of area young artists, craftsmen, sculptors, and photographers. This is a great opportunity to see many aspiring artists who use the Festival as a springboard for future careers and endeavors.

So whether your taste is for BBQ or crafts, music or physical fitness, come join the fun. It’s a Danville tradition.

The 97-acre Ballou Park is located on the corner of West Main Street and Park Avenue in Danville. For more information about times and events, contact www.visitdanville.com or phone 434.799.5200.

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Halifax County Festival Promises a Weekend of Fun

by Cathy Cole

Ever wonder what farmers do on those cold, damp days of winter? Some say they tinker on their tractors and plan for next year. Well, in Halifax County, in addition to planning next season’s crops and getting the machinery ready, the gear-heads work together to put on the Halifax County Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival.

In case you don’t know, the gearheads is a group of good ol’ Halifax County guys who wanted to showoff their antique farm machinery collections. About 6 years ago, they came up with an answer—a festival.

Others must have liked it, too, because the Halifax County Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival has grown to be one of the most anticipated Spring events in Halifax County.

History buffs enjoy looking at the working antique farm exhibits on the midway, while sportsmen enjoy the tractor pulls. Still others browse through the exhibit hall filled with antique tools and demonstrations of bread tray making, chair bottom caning, tobacco curing, and bear trapping.

There’s even a retired ABC agent who proudly displays a real moonshine still! And those with the need for speed never miss the Hot Car Burn-Outs in order to feel the rumble, hear the roar, smell the smoke, and see who wins braggin’ rights.

For youngsters there are games, the little train that’s made of old barrels and is pulled behind a lawn mower, and the corn box—it’s just like a sand box but instead of sand, it’s filled with corn.

New this year is the Fun/Game Horse Show presented by the Southside Virginia Horse Council on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Included will be Musical Feed Sacks, which is like musical chairs, except riders have to mount and proceed when the music starts, and place their horse’s hoof on a feed sack when the music stops. The Panty Race will challenge riders who take their horses through a pattern of barrels, then put on a pair of panties at a designated spot. Other games will include a horseback eggand-spoon race, Gamblers Choice, barrel races, and pole bending. First, second, and third place winners will be awarded ribbons for each game.

Pre-registration is encouraged at www.

SouthsideVirginiaHorseCouncil.org.

So much fun is bound to make you hungry. There will be hot dogs and hamburgers, French fries, slaw, and fried chicken dinners, and the Mount Laurel Ruritan Club will be cooking delicious Brunswick stew on Saturday.

The Bethel Ruritan Club will sell fried fish dinners, and the Turbeville Ruritans are cooking BBQ, while the South Boston Lions Club will make gallons of delicious homemade ice cream all weekend.

Profits from the Festival will go toward the building of a permanent Heritage Village for visitors to see the antique machines and vehicles that helped shape the rich agricultural heritage of Halifax County.

The 5th Annual Halifax County Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival will be held on May 2, 3, 4, at the Halifax County Fairgrounds located on Highway 360 East at the South Boston Speedway. Festival times are Friday noon until 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. until 9 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m until 5 p.m. For more information visit www. halifaxcountyheritagefestival.org.

Sharon Hughes Receives Jefferson Davis Gold Medal

by Lynne Bjarnesen The Jefferson Davis Gold Medal award given for excellence in the study and preservation of Confederate history has been presented to Sharon Hughes, Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History Education Coordinator. Given by the Anne Eliza Johns Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, the award recognizes Sharon’s work in creating the Civil War Walking Tour at Green Hill Cemetery. This is just the latest example of Sharon’s work and research.

Her other projects include History on the Lawn and the summer camp, the Sutherlin Guard.

Praising Sharon’s accomplishments, Dee Smith, President of the Anne Eliza Johns Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, notes, “Sharon stands in good company with other Danvillian recipients: Lawrence McFall, Bud Robertson, and Lester Snyder.�

May 16-18

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A good time for a great cause!

SWINGIN'

BY THE TRACKS

Saturday, May 31, 2008 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Enjoy a wonderful night of music, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and auctions!

Proceeds benefit the Danville Science Center's educational programs.

Cocktail attire.

Tickets are $50 per person.

You must be 21 or older to attend.

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Believe...

In the redevelopment of Danville’s Historic Downtown and the Tobacco Warehouse Districts

by Liz Sater, Re-Development Coordinator

Arts and culture are invaluable tools for revitalizing the central business district for cities large and small. Libraries, museums, and cultural centers where people can gather strengthen human development, create opportunities to foster understanding, and rekindle pride and belief in a community.

Dr. Daniel Addis, a physician at Piedmont PrimeCare, had always looked for ways to give back to his community. In 2006, when he purchased the Main Street Methodist Church Education Building at 769 Main Street, he fulfilled his dream. His vision to create a cultural center that would enrich the lives of all Danvillians was on its way.

The renovations to the Danville Education, Arts & Cultural Center (DEACC), most of which were done by Dr. Addis, are now nearing completion.

The first floor features a fully restored grand ballroom, which will host such events as theatre, dance, performing arts, ensembles, corporate events, receptions and wedding or anniversary celebrations. The upper level has been finished into two apartments—a two-bedroom, single bath unit with 1600 square feet of space, and a 4-bedroom, 2-bath apartment having over 1900 square feet. There is also office space and a board room for lease.

But it is in the lower level of the building where the mission statement* of the DEACC will become a reality. This area will house the education and tutoring center where students can receive help with homework, music, and art classes.

Adults will have an opportunity to learn here, too. Classes for life

skills are being planned, such as computer workshops, floral arrangement, baking, writing, drawing, quilting, and healthy lifestyle support with yoga or meditation sessions. A good example of the type of events that the DEACC would like to have on a regular basis is the upcoming Mother, Me and Tea. (See the story on page 3.)

Lana Garfield, Business Director for the DEACC, has the words Dream and Imagine framed on her office wall as a constant reminder of the inspiration for the building. “I believe this culture center will give back to the community,” she says, “with the dream to inspire.”

As we work our way through the revitalization process for the heart of our City, we applaud the work that Dr. Addis has done at the DEACC and look forward to the continued fruition of his dreams for a better community. For additional information, call 434.710.0588. * DEACC Mission Statement: To provide our community with opportunities for growth in art and humanities and to be actively engaged with the city and the local business community. As a part of the community, we will strive to create a stage for everyone to share their imagination and dream. Our goal is to collaborate with other cultural organizations, educational and faith-based institutions to produce excellent entertainment and education. The plan for our facility is to expand and promote participation in arts and culture; enhance student education through after-school continuing education programs; and help strengthen our community culturally.

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May 2008

He Said

She Said

He Said by Larry Oldham

She Said by Dena Hill

Is there anything worse than looking forward to a pleasant evening meal after a hard day at work and coming home to LEFTOVERS? I really like to eat and I'm basically a meat-and-potatoes man. I don't eat quiche; I don't eat broiled meat; I don't eat casseroles. And I especially don't eat leftovers. If it wasn't good enough to be eaten the first time around, why would I want to give it a second chance to taste better?

I'm more than willing to go out to dinner rather than eat a repeat from the night before. Maybe these feelings come from years ago when I would clean out the refrigerator and find what appeared to be a science project waiting to have mold tested.

I won't even eat bread if it's more than a couple of days old. I calculate the price of a sandwich from a restaurant and figure I'm way ahead even if I throw away half a loaf. You've tried to fool me by serving rerun vegetables, but I can always tell, so I just leave them on my plate. Get the message?

The only exception that I'll make is spaghetti. After the seasonings have settled overnight, it actually tastes better the second time. Sometimes I'll even eat leftover biscuits if they're toasted and oozing with butter, but I have to close my eyes and hold my nose so I won't miss the freshness.

I had an aunt and uncle who farmed and grew all of their food and raised cows and pigs. She made homemade biscuits, gravy, eggs, bacon and sausage every day for breakfast. Lunch was meat, vegetables, bread and dessert.

Dinner was even more meat, potatoes, vegetables, homemade bread and dessert. She cooked and canned all day long. She wouldn't dream of serving leftovers; everything was homegrown and the meat was always fresh, not frozen.

The French still eat that way today.

They take two hours for lunch and shop every day so their food is fresh. Their refrigerators are small because they don't store a lot of food. Maybe I should move to France so my palate will be pampered in the same way.

This may come as a big revelation to you, but my favorite day of the week is LEFTOVER DAY. I can come home from work, go for a walk, play with the dog, watch TV or whatever my little heart desires, instead of planning dinner, shopping for ingredients, cooking, and cleaning up.

I never serve leftovers the very next day. You get a break by having at least one or two days in-between. Hopefully, by that time you've forgotten that we had it before. (Oops! You're taking notes, aren't you? ) I have a friend who puts all of her leftovers for the week into one big bowl and on Friday nights, she makes soup. It never tastes the same because all of her meals were different, and the soup is delicious.

You say you don't like casseroles.

You really don't like any food that has more than three ingredients in it. I probably should be glad because it doesn't take much talent to fry chicken, grill steaks, and bake potatoes. Oh yes, as long as the can opener works, we'll have "fresh" vegetables.

Your aunt and uncle worked their farm from sun-up until sundown and didn't leave to go to public jobs. I leave at 7:30 and get home between 4:00 and 5:00, so daily shopping is not an option. I have 30 minutes for lunch, not two hours like the French. Our lifestyle is so different from Europeans that if you really want to compare apples to apples (no pun intended) then you need to look at a culture of people where both partners work and there are no maids, butlers, chauffeurs, nannies, but ordinary working folks like us.

All things considered, leftovers once in a while can be considered a mini vacation. Readers?

Run for the Roses Comes to Danville

by Patsy Poteat

Horses, hats, and hilarity will be part of the Running of the Danville Downs sponsored by the Danville Area Association for the Arts and Humanities on Kentucky Derby Day, Saturday, May 3.

Designed to coincide with the running of the 134th Kentucky Derby, this event will include indoor horse racing sponsored by local businesses and individuals, as well as viewing of the actual Derby on big screen television.

Heavy hors d’oeuvres, including Derby Pie, Bourbon Balls, and Kentucky Jam Cake, will be available.

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Admission will also cover one free drink (a mint julep if you like), and a cash bar will be available.

Ladies and gents should wear dressy casual attire and their fanciest hats for the hat contest. A 50/50 raffle and music for dancing between the races will also be part of the fun.

The ticket price of $55 per person will cover admission, food, one drink, play betting money, and the chance to win lots of prizes. You must be present to win.

Derby Day will be held at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research on Slayton Avenue from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 3. For more information, call 434.792.6965 before 5 p.m. on Friday, May 2. Tickets are limited and will not be sold at the door.

May 2008

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Grounded I used to be afraid when I had to fly. Now I’m afraid when I can’t.

With airlines folding right and left, I’m fast running out of affordable options. And since I've been in touch with several of these companies in the last two weeks, I'm beginning to understand why the skies aren't so friendly anymore.

It started on the way to Hawaii.

Turns out that while I was in the clouds for 11 ½ hours with American Airlines, they were on the ground canceling 2,500 flights. Good thing I didn’t know there were wiring issues. Good thing I didn’t know there were landing gear issues.

It’s a good thing I didn’t know I was flying by the seat of my pants.

Then, just days after we flew from Honolulu to Maui on Aloha Airlines, the world told them “aloha.” It didn't matter that they'd been in operation for 61 years, that the staff was friendly, the plane was spacious, and the flight was smooth.

I think they really called it quits so I wouldn't show up again wearing a grass skirt and coconuts.

This summer I had planned a trip to Florida, hoping to ride Skybus.

But now that they've just filed for bankruptcy, it looks like I won't be getting on that bus, Gus. I can't believe I was dumb enough to fall for the Skybus promise of $10 fares. While it may have started out that way, when it was all said

and done, I ended up paying 10 times that much. They should have advertised their tickets as a "Thomas Wolfe Special." Buy one and you can’t go home again -'cause if you do, the return trip will cost you a fortune.

Seems everything was extra with those people. Well, almost everything. When I emailed them about their amenities, I got this reply: "Please be advised that using restrooms in the flight is free of charge. Please feel free to use it when required.”

I wonder if this kind of generosity is what sent their business down the toilet.

Rather than cancel my trip, I raced to Allegiant Air to buy more tickets…only to wake up to the news that they were planning to pull out of Piedmont Triad International.

They might be allegiant to something, but that morning it didn't seem like it was to the air.

If only these airlines appreciated what we go through just to do business with them. We let them

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call all the shots, starting with the kind of luggage to bring.

Used to be that having your suitcase weigh less than 50 pounds was your only concern. Now you have to figure the volume of your bags by calculating the height, width, and depth to make sure it doesn’t exceed 62 inches. Packing is hard enough without needing refresher courses in algebra and geometry.

Because I live in fear of having my bags lost again like they were last year, I want all my essentials in my carry-on, but no such luck.

Nowadays, passengers are only allowed 3-ounce bottles safely sealed in a single quart-sized baggie. Anything larger poses a threat to our national safety.

Maybe so. But, the real truth is that the world would look a lot scarier if most of us aren't wearing full face make-up.

I'm so eager to comply with security that I automatically take off my belt and shoes and toss them in a tub without being asked. I'll give up my purse and my cell phone

Page 7 without a fight…and even let a total stranger unzip my suitcase as well as my jeans.

And once inside the plane, I try not to cause problems. I sit like a toddler in time-out, afraid to move… or at least unable to. You can call the seats coach, you can call the seats economy, but you can’t call them comfortable. Canned sardines have more wiggle room.

I wouldn't mind, though, if the airlines enforced synchronized reclining. That way when the first seat goes back, they all go back.

And I wouldn't spend hours with a stranger's head in my lap.

I try to be a good sport about the whole thing, even when they show me movies that frighten me to death. As we approached Oahu, we watched in fear as Apollo 13 splashed into the Pacific and prayed we didn’t do the same.

It was like showing Titanic on a cruise ship.

I miss the days when airlines only went by names you knew and trusted: Like Pan-Am, United, or Delta.

Instead we have more fly-by-night companies than you can shake a stick at. That's fine if their services pass with flying colors. It's just that right now I've got a handful of tickets that are no good to anybody.

This has to be the first time I've gotten taken for a ride…and didn't go anywhere.

Page 8 Gifts,Chocolates,Florals,

• evince 2008 Nails & Hairstyles that• Please, Schools to Set Her MindMay at Ease

Gifts of Distinction for Mom

40% Off Off Retail on Johnston Benchworks May 21st - 31st

Crystal (434) Hill Antiques 575-8810

1902 Seymour Drive South Boston, VA 24592 Open Wed.-Sat. 10-5; Sun. 1-5

Johnston Benchworks Sold Exclusively In Halifax County At Crystal Hill Antiques

Three Daughters Decor

Flags, Fun & More to Come!

For a complete listing of products & prices Check out 3daughtersdecorandflags.com or call 1-434-835-1358

Occoneechee State Park Native American Heritage Festival (1992-2008)

Clarksville, Virginia Saturday, May 10, 2008 Gates Open 10:00 AM 12 Noon Grand Entry

Everyone is Welcome in Sharing Our Heritage!

Spend the day at this colorful event and experience the song & dance celebration with Native American Dancers, enjoy freshly prepared Native foods, and Native Arts & Craft Vendors.

FEATURING M.C.: Marvin J. Burnette (Lakota Sioux) Host Drum: Secret Hill Singers (Haliwa Saponi) Co-Host Drum: Red Earth Singers (Haliwa Saponi) Head Man Dancer - Keith Anderson Head Lady Dancer - Debora Moore

Admission Fee Adults $5.00 children 3-12 and Seniors 62+ $3.00 Bring Your Lawn Chairs *NO PETS PLEASE* SPONSORED BY: Virginia Division of State Parks - For More Information Contact: Occoneechee State Park - 434-374-2210 Occoneechee State Park named for Native Americans who lived in the area for hundreds of years. The park is on John H. Kerr Reservoir, better known locally as Buggs Island Lake. The Native American Festival is an annual event that captures the culture and history of Native American people.

Occoneechee State Park is located 1.5 miles east of Clarksville on U.S. Rt. 58.

Abundant Life ENRICHMENT CENTER Pre K 2 Pre K 3 Pre K 4 & K-5 y.o. programs

ENROLL NOW

At Occoneechee State Park

Saturday, May 17, at noon Five Bands featuring

$50.00 registration $85.00 per week $50.00 book fee A Beka Curriculum “A Place to Learn, Love & Grow” 434.799.8542

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/"Ê/ Ê/"*t

Sunday, May 18, at 1:30 p.m.

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U.S. Army Blues Jazz Ensemble

- -ÊÜ>ÃÊÌ iÊ ÞÊ>Ài>ÊÃV ÊÀiV } âi`Ê LÞÊÌ iÊ1°-°Ê i«>ÀÌ i ÌÊ vÊ `ÕV>Ì Ê>ÃÊ>Ê ÓääÈÊ Ê `Ê ivÌÊ i `Ê ÕiÊ, LL Ê-V °

************

Heart of Carolina Swing Orchestra

Five Bands featuring ***********

************

For More Information Contact: Ross LeCompte @ 434-374-3920

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May 2008 Concerts,

• evince • Page 9 Countertops,Paintings, Flags & Furniture too...Thanks, Mom It’s All for You!

Dixie Bags & More Gift Shop & Gallery

In Downtown Danville!

Hand Crafted Handbags Made on Site

Mother’s Day Special

Custom Cakes & Catering Call Now for Mother’s Day Orders

Buy 2 - Get 1 Free Handbags and Accessories 136 S. Ridge St. 793-5842 dixiebags.com Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Mothers Day

GiftCertificates Available

It’s Tanning Season.

Instantly have the look of sun without the harmful effects with a Professional Spray Tan.

Come see us at the Community Market Beginning May 3 8- noon and at the shop Tuesdays - Fridays 10-4 4 1

Manicures, Pedicures Artificial Nail Enhancement No Drills - 30 Minute Appointments Everyone has their own Files

Awesome Mixed Media Paintings

By Lee Farley Photographic Keepsake Collage

By Cathy Farley At ART ON THE LAWN Danville Museum from 10-5

MAY 3

Country Treasures A Unique Cottage Style Gift Shop Floral Arrangements Wreaths - Swags - Centerpieces Pictures - Lamps - Soy Candles Bearington Bears - Jewelry Great Gifts

434.799.1700

534 Westover Drive - Danville VA Hours (Tues-Fri 10-5:30) Saturday 10-4 At other times by Appointment Owner: Becky Wagner

Page 10

•

evince •

• calendar of evince • Support the Tank Museum 434.836.5323 • www.aaftankmuseum.com

May

Through May 28

Too Small to See Exhibit– Discover the world of nanotechnology.

Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

Through May 11

Maud Gatewood Legacy Exhibit – Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

Through May 31

Exhibit – Walk Through The Westward Movement. South Boston-Halifax Museum – 434.572.9200.

May 1

Five Essential Questions For All Investors – Learn strategies for staying focused when the market becomes volatile. 12–1 pm.

Boscov’s. 434.797.8848.

May 1 (thru 3)

Silver Screen Classics – Meredith Gravely School of Dance Recital.

7:30 pm. GWHS Auditorium.

434.799.8072.

Smokey Joe’s Cafe – Set in the 50s & 60s you will certainly recognize many of these tunes.

8 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339.

May 1 (thru 22)

Calligraphy Class. 1-2 pm or 5:30-6:30 pm. Thursdays. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

May 1 (thru 29)

Canoe & Kayak Adventures – Paddle the Dan. Thursday evenings. 434.799.5215.

May 2

Friday at the Crossing – Silvercreek. 6:3–9:30 pm. Crossing at the Dan. 434.793.4636. See ad page 13.

May 2 (thru 4)

Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival – See story page 5.

May 2 (thru June 29)

Exhibit – Harry Aron: Rhythmic Icons. Opening 5/2 - 5–7 pm.

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

May 3

Preschool Classes – Tumblin’ Tots, 9:30–10:15 am; Just 4 Kicks, 10:30–11:15 am; Pre-School Cheerleading, 11:30 am–12:15 pm.

Coates Recreation Center.

434.797.8848.

DRBA’s First Saturday Outing – Paddle and optional hike at Doe Run Park, Martinsville 10 am. – 434.579.7599.

Spring River Clean Up – Help beautify our city’s landmark river.

10 am–1 pm. Pepsi Building.

434.791.5160 or 434.799.5215.

Southside Scramble Mountain Bike Race. 10 am–3 pm. Anglers Ridge. 434.799.5215.

Art on the Lawn – Juried art show featuring some of the region’s finest artists and craftsmen whose works will be for sale. 10 am–5 pm.

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

Vintage Heirloom Sale - Old Imperial Building, South Boston.

434.572.3664 or 434.585.2459.

Bob Ross Painting Class – Serenity. 10:30 am–3:30 pm.

Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

Line Dancers Boot Camp – Learn the basic steps. 12-5 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Derby Day – See story page 6.

Last Chance Prom – 8 pm–12 am.

The North Theater – 434.792.2700.

See page 4.

May 3 (thru 31)

Kuumba-West African Dance Company - Traditional West African dance and drumming classes. Times vary. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

May 5 (thru 19)

Boogie Mondays – Intermediate cha-cha lessons. Mondays, 7-8:30 pm.

Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

May 5 (thru 26)

African Dance Ensemble – Learn African Dance. Mons 6-7:30 pm.

City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

May 6

Computer Workshop – Using Digital Cameras & Photo Editing Software. 6–9 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – 434.766.6772.

Computer Workshop – Front Page. 6–9 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – 434.766.6772.

May 6 (thru 27)

Line Dance Classes. Tuesdays 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

May 6 (thru 29)

Fitness for Older Adults, Ladies & ABSolute Fitness. Tues/Thur, 9–11 am; Ladies 10 am–12 pm; ABSolute Fitness 10:30-11:30 am.

City Armory. 434.797.8848.

May 7

Senior Bowling Tournament.

10 am-12 noon. Riverside Lanes – 434.791.2695.

Fetch! Lab - Fun, food and games are the themes for this lab day!

Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

May 7 (thru 21)

Sell Products on Your Own Website –Wednesdays, 9 am–12 pm & 1:15–4:15 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research 434.766.6709.

May 7 (thru June 11)

Art with Flo – Wet on wet technique. Weds or Thurs, 6–9 pm.

Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

May 8

Recipe Club – Share great recipes, learn different ways to cook.11:30 am. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

Retirement Money Matters – Learn strategies to help make your money last.6-7 pm. Boscov’s.

434.797.8848.

Dan River Canoe Trip – Schoolfield Dam to Islands.

6–8 pm. 434.799.5215.

Coffee Tasting Around the World Class – African Arabic Coffee.

7 pm. Starbuck’s. 434.797.8848.

May 8 (thru 10)

Diamond Spectacular – Dance recital. GWHS Auditorium. 7:30 pm. Danville Academy of Dance – 434.792.9106. See ad page 11.

May 9

BBQ Dinner – Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary.

5:30–8 pm. Dan River Post 1097. egor1@comcast.net.

May 9 (thru 11)

Films of David Lynch. See page 4.

May 10

Instant Piano Classes – 9 am-12 pm.

Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

Amphibian/Reptile BioBlitzDan – Calling all lovers of creeping critters, nature, and scientific study!

Pre-register by 5/5. 9 am–5 pm. Dan Daniel Memorial Park. 434.799.5215.

May 2008

MAY 2008 S M

T W

4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

T F S 1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31

Butterfly Fun – Explore a butterfly’s life cycle while you learn amazing butterfly facts. Ages 5 to 8. 10 am– 12 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

Mother, Me and Tea – See page 3.

Afternoon Tea – For young ladies, their favorite adult and doll.

2:30–4 pm. South Boston-Halifax County Museum – 434.572.9200.

Gretna 5K Race. 9 am. Gretna Elementary School. 434.656.8961 or 434.656.2925.

Auto Racing – T - Late Model / Limited / Pure Stock. South Boston Speedway – 877.440.1540.

Native American Heritage Festival - See ad page 8.

May 10 (thru 18)

National Tourism Week - See ad page 13 and story page 16.

May 10 & 11

SCCA SARRC/MARRS Challenge – One of the largest fields of cars at the track each year, this race is always fun and exciting for participants and for spectators.

VIR – 434.822.7700.

May 13

Caring For Fido – Have your dog questions answered. 11 am.

Boscov’s. 434.797.8848.

Polliwogs & Science Stars Explore the ocean as you discover the many different types of animals living there. Ages 3–4 1–2 pm; Ages 5–7 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

Computer Workshop – Introduction to Windows XP. 6–9 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – 434.766.6772.

May 15

Retirement Money Matters – Learn strategies to help make your money last. 12–1 p.m.

Boscov’s. 434.797.8848.

Alzheimer’s Presentation – Long Term Health Care – How To Pay For It. 12–1 pm. United Way Meeting Room. 434.792.3700 x30.

Dan River Canoe Trip – Camilla Williams to Sandy River. 6–8 pm.

434.799.5215.

Skywatchers – Constellation Leo and the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. Nightfall. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

May 16

Karla Bonoff – Songwriter, singer & hit-maker. 7:30 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339.

May 16 (thru 18)

Festival in the Park – See page 4.

May 17

River City Mustang Club All Ford Car Show – Dash plaques, trophies, goodie bags, dyno on site,raffle, concessions. 8 am– 4 pm. Barkhouser Ford.

434.250.3401 or 434.797.2196.

May 2008 Searching for Signs – Journey to Caswell County to hunt for projectile points, stone flakes, and a pottery shard or two. 9:30 am. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

Ducks On The Dan Derby Duck Race – See story page 2 and ad page 7.

An Afternoon of Music – See story page 15.

DSO Spring Pops Concert – See story page 15.

May 17-18

Jazz Festival - See ad page 8.

May 18 (thru June 5)

Art Competition – Danville/ Pittsylvania County Public Schools Student Art. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

May 19

Fight Aging with Nutrition and Exercise – 5:30 pm. Boscov’s.

434.797.8848.

Mariachi Band – See ad page 10.

May 20

IALR Computer Workshop – File Management in Windows XP. 6–9 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – 434.766.6772.

May 21

Alzheimer’s Presentation –FAQ about Alzheimer’s Disease. 12–1 pm.

United Way Meeting Room.

434.792.3700 x30.

Hymn Time – Followed by an “Older American Reception.”

12:45-2 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Fetch! Lab - Learn about carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect through an experiment with dry ice.

Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

May 22

Fight Aging with Nutrition and Exercise. 11 am. Ballou Center (See 5/19) Recipe Club (See 5/8) Greek Food Fest IX. Lunch - 11 am–2 pm; Dinner - 4–8 pm. Episcopal Church of The Epiphany. 434.797.8202.

How To Raise A Money-Smart Child – 6–7 pm. Boscov’s.

434.797.8848.

Dan River Kayak Trip – Schoolfield Dam to Islands. 6–8 pm. 434.799.5215.

May 24

Totally Random Science – Race around a track, fire an air cannon, fly through a simulation and wing your way through an air stream.

9:30 am–5 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

Muddy, Messy Fingers & Toes – Let your child experience paint running through his/her hands and toes. Ages 3-5. 10:30 am. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848.

Auto Racing – Late Model / Limited / Pure Stock / SV Modifieds. South Boston Speedway – 877.440.1540.

May 24 & 25

Painting What You See – Basic principles of direct painting. 5/24 9 am–5 pm; 5/25 1–4 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

•

evince •

May 27

Polliwogs & Science Stars Learn about carnivores. Ages 3–4 1–2 pm; Ages 5–7 3:45–4:45 pm.

Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

Caring For Fido – Have your dog questions answered. 6:30 pm.

Boscov’s. 434.797.8848.

Page 11

MORTGAGE OPTIONS TO FIT YOUR BUDGET We Offer:

May 29

Jammers & Coffee House – Enjoy a cup of java and a cookie while listening or joining in with this lively group. 5-6 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Long Term Care Insurance – 6-7 pm. Boscov’s. 434.797.8848.

Dan River Kayak Trip – Dan Daniel Memorial Park to Anglers Park. 6–8 pm. 434.799.5215.

Alzheimer’s Presentation – Compassionate Communication with the Memory Impaired.

6:30-7:30 pm. Stratford House.

434.792.3700 x30.

Martinsville Mustangs vs.

Asheboro Copperheads. 7:20 pm.

Hooker Field. 276.632.9913.

May 29 (thru July 4)

Babette Hoffman-Price 773-2244

� Local processing and underwriting � No money down � Creative financing � Stated and no verification loans � Exceptional customer service

We want to help make your dreams a reality. Call us today for a free pre-qualification meeting.

You’ll be glad you did.

Southside Superstar – 20 SemiFinalists will perform and you vote for your favorite contestants at the end of the event! Each week will narrow down contestants. 7 pm.

Carrington Pavilion. 434.793.4636.

May 30

SHS Endowment Benefit Golf Tournament. 1 pm. Caswell Pines Golf Club. 434.793.2656.

Relay for Life - See story page 13.

May 30 (thru June 1)

If A Man Answers – A romantic comedy by the Gretna Little Theatre. 5/30 & 31, 7:30 pm; 6/1 2:30 pm. Gretna Movie Theatre.

434.228.1778.

May 31

Auto Racing – NASCAR Grand National Division, Busch East Series 150 / Late Model. South Boston Speedway – 877.440.1540.

Swingin’ by the Tracks – A good time for a great cause with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and auctions. 6:30–10 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160. See ad page 5.

Bluegrass & Country Gold Concert. 7 pm. GWHS Auditorium.

434.836.6116.

Martinsville Mustangs vs.

Kernersville Bulldogs. 7:20 pm.

Hooker Field. 276.632.9913.

May 31 (thru June 1)

Southside Sky-Fest Air and Car Show – Air show performances, hot air balloon rally, entertainment, drag racing, car show & more. 6 am. Danville Regional Airport – 434.799.5110.

Upcoming Events June 6

Fridays at the Crossing – Backstreet. Family Night.

6:30–9:30 pm. Crossing at the Dan.

MEMBER FDIC

www.amnb.com

Equal Housing Lender

Page 12

•

Specializing in FineFood Since 1921 •

Full Service Meat Department •

Homemade Chicken Salad (hand-chopped, our 40-year recipe)

•

Party Trays

Meat / Vegetable / Cheese Fruit / Ham Biscuits

•

Box Lunches

(Minimum of 4 24 hr. notice required)

7 Chambers St. • Danville, VA 434/793-8211 • Mon.-Sat., 9 am - 6 pm

What can you give your children for their 40th Birthday?

Give them the gift of

Music...

the gift that lasts a lifetime Danville Community School of Music

a good beginning never ends

A Music and Movement Program for Children ages Birth to 7 years • Play Musical Instruments • Singing • Movement & Dance • Musical Games • Listening • Creative Storytelling • Children’s Literature

“Music Makers: At the Keyboard” (a “Musikgarten” beginning piano course for children ages 7-9 yrs.)

Call now to register for Fall Classes.

Make sure your child gets the class you prefer and get an Early Bird Discount too!

Lynn Dinkle 791-3868 email: lynndinkle@yahoo.com Classes held in Danville at West Main Baptist Church

evince •

Nano in your life: a bimonthly column that explains how nanotechnology affects your life

Nano for Your Head

by Chris Kepley, NanoImmunology Group Leader Luna nanoWorks, Danville, Virginia Ask any middle-aged man with a receding hair line what his greatest fear is, and chances are he will reply, “losing my hair.”

Scientists at Luna Innovations’ nanoWorks division in Danville have recently discovered a potentially new treatment for hair loss. They have found their carbon nanomaterial compounds may eventually translate into a new class of medicines that promote hair growth in people who are balding.

While a vast majority of hair loss is due to underlying causes passed through our genes, any number of factors may also be present and accelerate the process: a variety of endocrine disorders, hormonal imbalances, and illness. For example, hair loss can occur as part of disease, such as lupus or diabetes.

It is not entirely clear why hair loss occurs, but one theory is the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) can cause hair loss as we age. DHT binds to hair follicles and retards their growth by cutting off the blood supply. Another theory is the same mechanisms that age our skin may also be responsible for generating “oxidative stress” in the hair follicle eventually resulting in its demise. This condition is what the new Luna compounds may help to stop.

Luna believes its nano-based compounds are powerful anti-oxidants inhibiting the damaging effects of this oxidative stress. Using Luna’s nanomedicine prototype, scientists at Luna have been able to document increased growth of hair on mice with a normal number of hair follicles. Even more astounding is the development of hair follicles in mice genetically developed to be bald.

The Luna discovery suggests that there may be a new pathway to reversing hair follicle atrophy, and one day that may lead to a new treatment for human hair loss. This is early-stage research, and as the company progresses and more data becomes available, we will continue the story.

Around the Table

by Annelle Williams

Going Green!

This time of year, everything is turning green. From soft pale greens and lime hues to the very deep verdigris colors of the evergreens—the colors progress. Grass begs to be mowed and vegetable gardens are showing green sprouts as seedlings take hold. Going Green is a great term to describe our commitment to conserve and be better stewards of this beautiful earth.

If you’ve been smart green gardeners, you should already have spring lettuce, spinach and asparagus to cut—all various shades of green and delicious.

And with spring gardening underway, grilling fever can’t be far behind. One smell from a neighbor’s grill, and I’m starved for our first outdoor grilling and dining experience. So try this Grilled Tuna over Beans and Spring Mix recipe.

I think you’ll love it!

And remember, whether you’re doing your own gardening, or supporting your local farmers’ market, you can make a green difference!

Editor’s Note: Danville’s Community Market, 629 Craghead Street, will open on Saturday, May 3. For more information call 434.797.8961

May 2008

Danville Paint & Supply Celebrates 25 Years of Service

by Gordon Bendall

Grilled Tuna

4 tuna steaks 2 garlic cloves, minced Zest and juice from 2 medium-sized lemons 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 1 T extra virgin olive oil 2 tsp. coarsely ground fresh pepper ½ tsp. sea salt Place tuna steaks in a zip-lock bag. Whisk together remaining ingredients and pour into the bag, covering both sides of tuna.

Place tuna in refrigerator to marinate while you prepare the Bean Mixture and Onion Asparagus Spring Mix.

Bean Mixture

1 can Italian white beans, rinsed and drained (cannellini beans) ¼ cup chopped flat leaf (or curly) parsley 1 cucumber, peeled, quartered, and then cubed 2 garlic cloves, minced 3 T red wine vinegar 1 T extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp. Dijon mustard Zest and juice from one medium lemon 1 tsp. coarsely ground fresh pepper 1 tsp. sea salt Place beans, parsley and cucumber in a bowl. Whisk the remaining ingredients together and pour over bean mixture, stirring to combine. Set aside.

Onion Asparagus Spring Mix 1 large sweet onion 1 bunch of asparagus 1 T extra virgin olive oil 4 cups spring mix salad greens 1/3 cup feta cheese

Slice onion into large, thick rings. Snap the asparagus ends off and discard. Place in a bowl and toss with olive oil and set aside.

(These will be cooked on the grill and then added to the Spring Mix and topped with the feta cheese.)

Prepare grill for medium heat. When ready, place onions and asparagus on grill and cook until beginning to show char or grill marks. Turn, grill another few minutes, and remove to bowl. Allow to cool.

Grilled Tuna

Remove tuna steaks from marinade and place on grill. Grill on each side for 2-3 minutes, or until your desired doneness.

Assembling the Bean and Spring Mix

While the tuna is cooking, with kitchen scissors snip the grilled and cooled onions and asparagus into bite-sized pieces and toss with Spring Mix salad. Place mixture into salad bowl and top with bean mixture.

Sprinkle feta cheese over salad and serve with grilled tuna steaks.

Celebrating 25 years of service to the community this year, the owners of Danville Paint & Supply at 532 Monroe Street say there’s no real secret to their success. “People know and trust us,” owner Keith Evans says about the business he started with his wife Delores in 1983. “It’s as simple as that.

We know our customers, and my wife and I and our employees guide them to the right selection.”

And what selections they have— paints, flooring, tile, wall coverings, window treatments, and hardware. “If a customer is looking for a specialty product, we’re going to get it,” Delores Evans adds. “We’ll do everything we can to get them what they need.”

But that’s not all. The longevity of the staff keeps their customers confident that quality products and competitive prices will match those offered by the big box stores. Michael Lewis in outside sales has been with the company for 14 years, and Katherine Lewis in flooring and interior design has 12 years of service. Mike Huppert has been on the sales floor for 12 years as well, and Robin Crutchfield has chalked up 4 years. Their experience, combined with unequalled customer service, has made Danville Paint a fixture in Downtown Danville over the years.

“We’re no more expensive than the warehouse stores,” Keith says, “and our industrial accounts prove that point.” Many local industries prefer the quality and service that Danville Paint & Supply is known for: Brockway Glass, Goodyear Tire, Corning Glass, Columbia Flooring, ABB of South Boston, the City of Danville, and Pittsylvania County to name a few.

“The advantage of the independent dealer is that we can pick and choose the variety of products we carry,” Keith says, “from many different vendors where we get the best products at the best price.”

To celebrate their 25 years of service, Danville Paint & Supply will have drawings during the month of May for prizes, while offering special sales on their top-of-the- line products. So before heading out to that big box store, try Danville Paint & Supply and feel the difference. Let them help make that house, your home.

Visit Danville Paint & Supply from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. or at www.danvillepaintandsupply.com.

See ad on page 14

May 2008

•

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To encourage exceptional customer service, the Dan River Hospitality and Travel Committee of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and EVINCE would like to recognize those who give it. When you experience exceptional customer service, tell us about it in 300 words or less.

Include your name and phone number.

Email your story to managingeditor A mystery customer will visit your nominee’s place of business for verification. We’ll publish the best entry received. The chosen honoree will receive a small gift and a framed copy of the published story citing his/ her exceptional service.

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by Larry Wilburn were completely happy with our This past February it was finally by Joycewe Wilburn purchase. She never complained time to replace our 13 year-old Toyota about the extra trouble, nor did Camry, so we headed to Danville she ever make us feel that we were Toyota to see what was available. We being unreasonable. She was totally decided to “go green� and buy a hybrid. professional, helpful, and caring As it turned out, when the options throughout the entire ordeal. we wanted were not immediately But that is not the end of the story. available, a car was ordered from When I went to pickup the car, I had a Harrisonburg dealer. We waited one more request—would someone anxiously over the weekend until the please install a toddler car seat? call came on Monday afternoon that “Yes� was the immediate answer. the car had arrived.

Julia recruited co-worker Kristina We were excited‌until our sales Hewitt and together they struggled consultant, Julia Sparks, made another in hot conditions for an hour or more call to say there was a “dingâ€? on the to make sure the seat was properly hood, which was probably the result installed and safe to use. of gravel from the interstate hitting Since the purchase, I have it. I went to view the car and found received phone messages and a the paint was chipped to the primer. letter asking if I was satisfied, a Julia offered to order a new car from customer service questionnaire Tennessee and we accepted. asking my opinion about how I Because I didn’t want to run the was treated, plus a thank you gift risk of another interstate “ding,â€? Julia for shopping at Danville Toyota. I offered to have the car shipped, not couldn’t ask for anything more. driven, to Danville. We agreed and For these reasons, I nominate Julia she updated us frequently on the Sparks for the Spotting Exceptional progress of its journey. Upon its Customer Service Award. arrival, Julia provided a more than thorough examination of the new car. She wanted to make sure that

Why Do I Relay?

by Phyllis McCormick, Survivor

On September 11, 1991, I had a mammogram. There it was, this bright white area that, as I suspected, was breast cancer. A biopsy confirmed my fears. A mastectomy and lymph node dissection also revealed that the cancer had spread to the axillary lymph nodes.

Four chemotherapy treatments in Danville, four days of high-dose chemotherapy followed by a bone marrow transplant at Duke, 21 days in the isolation unit at Duke, six bone marrow biopsies, five surgical procedures and 33 radiation treatments took me on a roller coaster ride that stopped at the end of June, 1992. My family, friends and coworkers took that ride with me.

My husband, who is a coach, lived up to that title. He researched everything he could find about breast cancer and constantly supported and encouraged me. Our son was 12 and our daughter was 9½ at the time of diagnosis. To them the word cancer

Page 13

equaled death; my daughter asked me the day we told them about the cancer, “Are you going to die?� It was a confusing and scary time for them.

Our talks and support from family and friends who volunteered to take each of them to their various activities were wonderful. But, it was and is our faith in God that led us through this experience.

It’s now 16½ years later and I continue to be cancer-free. I’ve been involved with Relay for Life for 11 years. Relay is when we honor those who have lost the battle with cancer and we celebrate with those who are survivors. Through fund-raising for Relay, cancer patients receive help; educational programs are developed and more research is done to find better treatments and hopefully a cure for this disease. This is why I “Relay.â€?

If you have never been to Relay for Life, I invite you to join us on Friday, May 30, at 6:00 p.m., Carrington Pavilion at the Crossing at the Dan, 629 Craghead Street. It will be an experience you will never forget.

For more information call Brenda Scearce 434.724.7158.

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1st1st 2nd2nd 3rd 3rd 4th 4th5th 5th Welcome Welcome Concert Concert Sunday June June Sunday June88 Sunday Sunday 88 June Old OldTime TimeBand Band $400.00 $400.00 $300.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 Rosette Chinqua Chinqua Penn Plantation Penn Plantation 1st1st 1st $300.00 2nd 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th$100.00 4th 5th Rosette 5th 1st 2nd 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th 4th 5th 5th Welcome Welcome Concert Concert Concert Welcome Welcome Concert Bluegrass Bluegrass Band Band $400.00 $300.00 $300.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 $100.00 Rosette Rosette Old OldTime Time Time Band Band $400.00 $400.00 $400.00 $300.00 $300.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 $100.00 Rosette Rosette Chinqua Chinqua PennPlantation Plantation PennPlantation Plantation Old Old Time Band Band $400.00 $400.00 $300.00 $300.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 $100.00 Rosette Rosette Chinqua Chinqua Penn Penn TK TK www.chinquapenn.com www.chinquapenn.com Old Old Time TimeBanjo Banjo $100.00 $$300.00 75.00 $$300.00 75.00 $$200.00 50.00 $$200.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Bluegrass Bluegrass Band Band$100.00 $400.00 $400.00 $300.00 $300.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 $100.00 Rosette Rosette Bluegrass Bluegrass Band Band $400.00 $400.00 $100.00 $100.00 Rosette Rosette Saturday June Saturday 14 June 14 TK TK TK TK Bluegrass Bluegrass Banjo Banjo $100.00 $$$ 75.00 $ $$$ 50.00 $$$ 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Music Competition Music Old OldTime Time Time Banjo Banjo$100.00 $100.00 $100.00 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Old Old Time Banjo Banjo $100.00 $100.00 75.00 $$ 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Saturday June Saturday 14Competition June14 14 Saturday June Saturday 14 June Sunday June Sunday 15 June 15 Old Old Time TimeFiddle Fiddle $100.00 $$$ 75.00 $ $$$ 50.00 $$$ 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Bluegrass Bluegrass Banjo Banjo$100.00 $100.00 $100.00 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Music Competition Music Competition Bluegrass Bluegrass Banjo Banjo 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$100.00 $100.00 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Poole Poole Song Song $100.00 $100.00 75.00 $$ 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Tents and Tents RVs welcome andRVs RVs welcome Tents and Tents RVs welcome and welcome Food and Food music and vendors music vendors Youth Youth division division Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Duet Duetsinging singing singing $100.00 $100.00 75.00 75.00 50.00 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Noadvance advance Noregistration registration advanceregistration registration Duet Duet singing $100.00 $100.00 $$ 75.00 $$ 75.00 $$ 50.00 $$ 50.00 Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette No No advance Foodand andFood Food musicand and vendors musicvendors vendors Old Old Time Time 33Finger Finger Banjo Banjo $500 $500 grand grand prize prize Food music vendors music Youth Youth division division Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Youth Youth division division Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette Rosette $Rosette 25.00 $Rosette 50.00 $Rosette 10.00 Old OldTime Time Time 3Finger Finger Banjo Banjo $500 $500 $500 grand grand prizeprize prize Old Old Time 333Finger Finger Banjo Banjo $500 grand grand prize http://www.charlie-poole.com http://www.charlie-poole.com (336)623-1043 (336)623-1043

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DRITA Students Smarter Than Ever

by Deborah Morehead

Dan River Information Technology Academy (DRITA) Director Ciji Moore is impressed with the newest class of DRITA students at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. According to Moore, “The students in this program are brilliant. They have really embraced DRITA and have taken advantage of all the technology that has been offered through this program. I am very proud of them and cannot wait to see how well they excel in the advanced courses.”

Moore’s comments followed an impressive demonstration of skills and knowledge presented by the 24 high school freshmen to their families. They showcased personal websites and networking skills, such as making an operational Ethernet cable, and made PowerPoint presentations on computer terminology and networking configurations—skills they had learned during six Saturday sessions.

When asked to describe his experiences in DRITA, Halifax County High School student Kenneth Brandon exclaimed, “It’s amazing!” and is excited about the upcoming summer program. “Summer will be even better than the Saturday sessions,” he says, “because we won’t have to wait to get back to what we are doing.” The allday two-week summer sessions will provide instruction in more complex computer-related courses including robotics and computer animation.

DRITA has brought together students from the cities of Danville and Martinsville, and the counties of Halifax, Henry and Pittsylvania. The students were selected through a rigorous application process for the 3-year program funded by the National Science Foundation under its ITEST (Information Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers) project.

The program at IALR is the first of its kind in Virginia and is one of 62 such program sites throughout the United States.

All DRITA programs are held at the IALR on Slayton Avenue. For more information, call 434.766.6786 or visit www. danriverita.org.

May 2008

Nominations Sought for Governor’s Awards for the Arts

by Lynne Bjarnesen

Nominations are now being sought for the Governor’s Awards for the Arts 2008 to be presented by Governor Timothy Kaine in September. The Awards, which have been presented only three times in Virginia, recognize outstanding lifetime achievement by Virginia artists, arts organization, and those who support and encourage the arts.

Lynne Bjarnesen of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History will serve as Area Coordinator for Danville and Pittsylvania County.

The Governor’s Awards are administered by the Virginians for the Arts Foundation and former First Lady of Virginia Jeannie Baliles is serving as the State Chair. “While the Governor’s Awards spotlight the creative spirit throughout the Commonwealth, they also provide an opportunity to demonstrate how the arts contribute to the quality of life in our individual communities,” says Bjarnesen. “Our area is rich in the cultural arts, and I am honored to be asked to serve on this important program that recognizes their significance.”

Nominations may be made by anyone in the Commonwealth and must be sent or e-mailed to the Virginia Commission for the Arts no later than Thursday, May 15th.

Forms are available online at www. arts.virginia.gov or at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts, 975 Main Street, Danville, Virginia 24543.

Nominees must be native Virginians or current residents; businesses and organizations must currently operate in the state.

A blue ribbon panel of judges will select 10 Award winners based upon the nomination materials. The panel will be asked to have diversity among the winners in artistic discipline and region of the state, and the winners will be announced August 1st. A September awards ceremony will be held at the Capitol in Richmond.

No public funds are involved in the Governor’s Awards, which are made possible through generous support from corporate sponsors including Dominion, Exxon/Mobil, Norfolk Southern, Philip Morris USA and Virginia Natural Gas. For additional information, contact Lynne Bjarnesen, 434.793.5644 or lynne@danvillemuseum.org or June Britt, State Coordinator of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts, 434-385-0600 or june@brittmarketing.com.

May 2008

So You’re Going on Vacation…

Will You Have Fun?

by Dr. Joey Faucette, Marriage Coach Do you build up the idea of vacation in your imagination to gargantuan proportions? And like Sparky in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation find yourself struggling with the reality of vacation? I know, I know...if I had to vacation with your spouse, I’d struggle, too, right?

As a couple, vacations present a wealth of opportunity for fun—and failure. Most of this creative tension emerges from your “opposites attract” factor. The Extroverted Spouse wants to enjoy a vacation with lots of people. The Introverted Spouse prefers to lie on the beach and read a book away from the insanity of “all those people.” How do you select “fun” as your vacation default instead of “failure” when you are so different?

Begin by avoid thinking either/or, and embrace both/and to have fun. Here’s an example of how to do that.

I am the poster child for Extroverts Express. My wife, on the other hand,

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represents Introverts International.

When we vacationed in Maui for her 40th birthday, we faced the creative tension between my “let’s do it all, go-go-go” bent and her “just leave me alone on the beach” preference.

So we decided to do both. One day, we drove in a convertible down the Highway to Hana, stopping all along the way. The next day, we found a secluded bay with only one other couple and just sat on the black sand shore. We had an incredible experience of fun by respecting our divergent personalities.

If you want to Stay Married Forever, become aware of your different personality preferences, especially your energy flow of Extroversion and Introversion. Then prepare for a fun vacation by doing both!

For more information, visit www.StayMarriedForever.org.

Big Band Excitement from the Danville Symphony Orchestra

by Mary Franklin

Looking for a great way to top off a beautiful spring day? Try attending the Danville Symphony Orchestra’s Remember the Big Bands on Saturday, May 17th. With a little planning you can go to the Festival in the Park, enjoy a dinner out, and still make it to the symphony’s 8 p.m. performance.

Once there, the older members of the audience will be treated to a walk down memory lane as the symphony plays tunes from the golden era of the Big Band sound: Georgia on My Mind, Heart and Soul, C Jam Blues, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, Serenade in Blue, Sentimental Journey, and of course, Moonlight Serenade and In The Mood.

And for the young folks? What better way to introduce them to the “swing” music that their grandparents and even great-grandparents enjoyed…but that their parents disapproved of so long ago?

It is said that when World War II dawned, and the country was wracked with pent-up emotions of strife and trauma, the time was right for swing music to jitterbug by, and sweet melodic music for slow dancing. And the Big Bands—led by Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Les Brown, and Count Basie, to mention just a few—played it all.

With the auditorium filled with these tunes, it’s little wonder that at every year’s spring symphony concert, some couples wear their dancing shoes and enjoy a romantic spin to the music that brings back fond memories, while bringing melodious joy to the present.

So for dancing in the aisles, come out on Saturday, May 17th to George Washington High School Auditorium.

Doors open at approximately 7:30 p.m.

The 8 o’clock concert is free, with seating on a first come, first serve basis.

Additional information can be found at www.danvillesymphony.net

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An Afternoon of Music with Wayne Henderson and the New North Carolina Ramblers

by Lynne Bjarnesen Whether you like listening to music, or playing it, or both, you’ll want to put Saturday, May 17, from 2-5 p.m. on your calendar and head for the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for An Afternoon of Music. That’s when Wayne Henderson, traditional bluegrass musician and luthier, will entertain folks with his music and homespun stories and The New North Carolina Ramblers will delight listeners with their foottapping, flatfoot dancing tunes. To be a part of creating the music, bring your instruments and join the jam session from 4-5 p.m.

There are a limited number of $10 advance tickets. Advanced ticket holders are guaranteed indoor admittance, if weather prohibits holding the event outdoors. Weather permitting, additional tickets will be available the day of the event for $5 each, but $5 ticket holders will need to bring their own seating.

This concert/jam session is a prelude to the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum on Main Street exhibit New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music, which will be featured at the Danville Museum from July 20-August 24.

The DMFAH is located at 975 Main Street.

For more information, call 434.793.5644 or visit www.danvillemuseum.org.

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Visit Danville on Your Vacation

by Tim Robinson

While many will hit the road for vacation this summer, have you ever thought about what people do when they visit Danville? Join me as we take a tour. You might learn about something you’ve been missing.

We begin our tour by visiting the boat launching ramp at Anglers Park. The Dan River offers many types of fishing from trout just north of here to the striped bass, for which the Dan is known, to large mouth bass, walleye, white perch, white bass and several types of sunfish. Few rivers offer a wider variety of angling opportunities than our Dan. Anglers Park is also the home of the Anglers Ridge Mountain Bike Trail. Rock and roll over 15 miles of Southern Virginia’s sweetest mountain biking trail. It’s a natural surface single track suitable for mountain biking and adventurous trail walking. The rugby fields of Anglers Park are often home to international competition.

Next take a look at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research building on Slayton Avenue. It’s a tangible presence of applied research, high technology, and advanced education in the local community Nearby, the beautiful 170-acre Dan Daniel Park consists of rolling terrain, river frontage, wetlands and woodlands with picnic areas to suit groups of any size. Dan Daniel is also home to the Danville Braves minor league baseball team, a training camp for the future Atlanta Braves players. Soccer and softball fields are also available. The newest addition to the park is the DanvillePittsylvania County Veterans’ Memorial honoring veterans of all wars on its granite walls and brick walkway.

The Philip Wyatt Memorial Skate Park, also located in Dan Daniel Park, contains 8800 square feet of pipes, grind boxes, rails, a half pyramid and more. It earned the Best New Facility Award from the 2001 Virginia Recreation & Parks Society.

Traveling to the heart of the Tobacco Warehouse District at the Crossing at the Dan, you will find the Danville Science Center. Housed in two renovated Southern Railway buildings, its hands-on exhibits and special programs make science fun for everyone. Don’t miss the beauty of the Butterfly Station and Garden—one of only a few butterfly greenhouses in Virginia. In the historic train station, you’ll discover galleries featuring the Estelle H. Womack Collection, a wonderful array of natural history

objects collected and donated by local residents.

Across the way, experience the sights and sounds of shopping at the Community Market, located in the old Southern Freight Depot.

Local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, baked goods and quality crafts starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday mornings.

Just down the hill, sing, dance, and groove the night away at the Carrington Pavilion, the home of many special events and concerts— Friday Night at the Crossing, Gospel Fest, Harvest Jubilee Concerts, and the Fourth of July Celebration. You’ll see it, if you run, bike, or walk on the 7.5 miles of paved River Walk, which winds along the Dan from Union Street Bridge to Anglers Park. You might even want to stop and feed the ducks along the way.

Journey along Historic Downtown Main Street with its unique shops and restaurants by riding on one of the vintage trolley buses with wooden bench seats, brass rails and oak interior to view the vastness of Downtown and the Tobacco Warehouse District with its cobblestone streets. The murals, antiques, authentic New York style deli, exquisite candy/chocolate shop, coffee shop, boutiques and gift shops will delight all the senses.

Historic Downtown and the Tobacco Warehouse Districts are both part of a massive $54 million renovation/

revitalization. The area now features retail and housing options including the Dan River Crossing Senior Living Apartments, Burton Condominiums, and the Lindsay Lofts.

Farther up Main Street, walk along Millionaires Row and see the mansions that give evidence of Danville’s splendid Victorian era.

These homes, built by successful 19th century Virginians who prospered from the tobacco and textile industries, are still privately owned; many have been renovated and restored to their original beauty. A mile or more away are the 47 homes and churches that are in the Old West End Historic District; many are listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. Just off Main Street there are four historic cemeteries.

Along Lee St. there is the Freedman’s Cemetery, United States National Cemetery, and the Green Hill Cemetery. Grove Street Cemetery, which is only a block from the Sutherlin Mansion, was Danville’s first municipal burial ground dating back to 1827.

Be sure to tour the Sutherlin Mansion, which served as the Last Capitol of the Confederacy during the final days of the War Between the States. It was here that Jefferson Davis held his final cabinet meeting and learned of Lee’s surrender to Grant at Appomattox. The Mansion is now home to the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History and welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday. The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, where President Jefferson Davis worshipped during the final days of the Civil War, is within walking distance.

Visit the refurbished Langhorne House, childhood home of sisters Nancy and Irene Langhorne who brought distinction to Danville in

May 2008 very different ways. Nancy married Waldorf Astor to become Lady Astor, the first female to be seated in the British House of Commons.

Her sister, Irene, married artist Charles Dana Gibson and served as the model of his “Gibson Girl.”

Jump into your car and drive to the American Armored Tank Museum, dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made by so many men and women. It has one of the finest collections of tanks, artillery, weapons, and military memorabilia in the United States. You can even experience an actual flamethrower at work.

Just 30 minutes from Danville, take a look at “Life in the Fast Lane.” VIRginia International Raceway is one of the world’s most beautiful and challenging road racing circuits. VIR hosts professional and amateur automobile and motorcycle road races, plus vintage sports car races. Fulfill all your racing needs, NASCAR, European Style, Motor Cross and American Hometown Track.

Danville is home to many local family-run boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. A growing number of national stores are opening their doors creating a regional shopping hub in Danville.

So next time someone asks you, “What is there to do in Danville?” pick up this article and take them on a tour and visit Danville.

Visit the Danville Welcome Center during their “See America Week” open house the weekend of May 10th – 12th.

Enter to win a door prize each day and a grand prize gift basket. For more information, call 434.-793-4636 or visit www.visitdanville.com. See ad page 13.