Evince Magazine December 2010

Evince Magazine

Page 1

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December 2010

December Contents

2 Editor’s Note

3 Planning a Party? RiverWalk Party Store Can Help

by Joyce Wilburn 4 She Said He Said / Larry’s Christmas

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

A friend just called to announce the arrival of a newborn baby boy. The joy combined with excitement in her voice could be felt across the miles and through the phone. Joy and excitement— with a little planning those two words could easily describe your holiday season.

Listen. Evince-The Voice of the Holidays is speaking and it’s telling you to attend Danville Symphony Orchestra’s free concert (page 18), tour historic sites including the White Mill on Danville Historical Society’s 38th Annual Holiday Tour (page 12), take a candlelight tour of the Sutherlin Mansion (page 18), and cook a scrumptious meal (page 17). On December 11, The Voice of the Holidays wants you to watch Riverview Rotary’s Christmas Parade (page 18) and then go to a holiday party.

Haven’t been invited to one?

That’s the universe telling you to host one and the smart ladies at RiverWalk Party Store will help with the planning (page 3).

Now you realize that too much excitement and fun can lead to exhaustion. There’s a solution to that nice problem in Enjoying the Whirlwind of the Holidays (page 8). For more inspiration read Second Thoughts Taking the High Road (page 7).

Think of Evince as your guide for sorting through the to-do or not-to-do list. Whether you are celebrating the birth of a new baby, a birth that happened over 2,000 years ago, or some other religious or historical event, there are plenty of reasons for having fun this month.

Hopefully, you will experience joy and excitement and arrive at a New Year’s Eve party wellrested and ready for 2011.

Sincerely,

THE

OICE of THE HOLIDAYS

Publisher

Andrew Scott Brooks

Editor Joyce Wilburn joyce@evincemagazine.com (434.799.3160) Associate Editor Larry G. Aaron larry.aaron@gmail.com (434.792.8695)

5 Salvage

by Telisha Moore Leigg

Editor's Note

Ve ince

7 Second Thoughts / Taking the High Road

by Kim Clifton

Contributing Writers

Diane Adkins, Lynne Bjarnesen, Janie Leigh Carter, Kim Clifton, Mary Franklin, Dena Hill, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Clyde Long, Susan Long, Larry Oldham, Debra Savage, Joann Verostko, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams

8 Reflecting Forward Enjoying the Whirlwind of the Holidays

by Linda Lemery 9 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Clyde & Susan Long

Business Manager Paul Seiple paul@evincemagazine.com (1.877.638.8685)

10 Calendar

Sales Manager Larry Oldham larry@evincemagazine.com (434.728.3713)

11 Walking through Schoolfield

by Mack Williams 12 A Mill, Mansions, and More on Annual Holiday Tour

by Joyce Wilburn

Sales Associates Kim Demont (434.836.1247) kim@evincemagazine.com Misty Cook (434.728.2905)

13 Book Clubbing / The Caswell Book Club

by Janie Leigh Carter

Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden)

14 Randy Savage’s CD Celebrates the Seasons of Halifax County

by Debra Savage

Graphic Designer Kim Demont

evince\i-’vin(t)s\

17 Around the Table / All I Want for Christmas

by Annelle Williams

1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW 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 publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

18 Calendar Clips

On the Cover: Photo of Grace Oakes and Jean Williams of RiverWalk Party Store

by Michelle Dalton. See story on page 3.

EVINCE Magazine

See the December issue of Showcase Magazine

300 Ringgold Industrial Pkwy Danville, VA 24540 www.evincemagazine.com

Featuring: A Community Tradition of Holiday Spirit... the Danville Christmas Parade by Susan Elzey .

© 2010 All rights reserved.

Meet Some of Our Writers

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

For Subscriptions, call 1.877.638.8685 ext. 6.

We now accept Visa, MC, and Discover for ad payments Telisha Moore Leigg’s fiction has been published in magazines and anthologized. She teaches Japanese and magazine journalism at George Washington High School. She is a wife and a mother of two-year-old twin boys.

Susan and Clyde Long were visitors from Bristol, Virginia, who enjoyed the hospitality they experienced and wrote a nomination for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award.

Lynne Bjarnesen is the Executive Director of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History

Deadline for submission of January stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 21.

Submit stories and articles to: joyce@evincemagazine.com.

Submit calendar items to: kim@evincemagazine.com.

For ad information contact a sales associate or sales manager above.

Evince Magazine

ASK DR. JUDITH

W

Judith A. Ostrowski, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Danville ENT Associates, Inc.

loved one has a hearing loss but Q: My refuses to get help. What can I do? one can not force a person do what they A: No do not want to do. Your hard of hearing

Photo by Michelle Dalton.

hen it comes to party planning, something fresh is happening— and it’s in one of Danville’s oldest neighborhoods. Just a few blocks from Craghead Street on the corner of Lynn and Wilson Streets in the city’s historic Warehouse District, Grace Oakes and Jean Williams, co-owners of RiverWalk Party Store, are providing first-class onestop shopping for your next Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s, wedding, birthday, reunion, or anniversary party.

Grace and Jean have known each other for decades and started working together in June, 2008, when the former American/Virginia Restaurant Equipment store was remodeled and transformed into the current enterprise.

Jean explains, “Restaurant equipment was not what I wanted to do, so we had an auction and cleaned it out.”

Picking up the conversation, Grace says, “We wanted to fill a gap. Danville didn’t have a strictly party store.” “I needed something to do after the kids left,” quips Jean, the mother of four adult children, who was a stayat-home mom for 30 years, “and (selling party supplies) is a lot more fun than selling refrigerators and stoves— things I didn’t know about and didn’t want to learn.”

Without realizing it, the two easy-going women sometimes finish each other’s sentences and are so in sync that they often dress in similar attire and colors. Because Grace has three children ranging in age from four to eight years old, Jean runs the store most of the time. “I like helping customers coordinate things for a party and then putting it all together,” she says followed by Grace who adds, “To be able to work with someone in a creative way and then they leave excited about what we’ve planned, that’s the best part.”

Customers often send the duo pictures of their special events and return to the store to express their appreciation for a job well-done.

When Jean needs to be away from the store, Grace takes over. She also creates the window and in-store displays and scopes out customers’ party locations to help them plan. “Sometimes, we decorate together at a party site,” says Grace who has planned birthdays, wedding

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Jean Williams and Grace Oakes decorate the tree with help from Faith Oakes.

Planning a Party?

RiverWalk Party Store Can Help

by Joyce Wilburn receptions, baby and wedding showers. Thinking about the most unique event they have experienced, Jean quickly adds, “We recently provided supplies for a puppy shower for a newly adopted pet!”

In addition to the traditional party supplies, RiverWalk Party Store has linens, tables, chairs, and fountains for rent and sells catering supplies, floral centerpieces, etched glasses, engraved napkins and hundreds of other items. “You don’t have to go out-of-town to find party supplies,” says Grace, who studied at Danville Community College and worked for nine years in retail.

Her business background and Jean’s five years of experience working at American National Bank plus their combined years of planning parties for their own children make them the perfect team.

Surveying the colorful well-stocked store that will put any shopper in a party mood, Jean remarks, “We really like being here in this historic building in downtown Danville.” The ringing phone and the frequent arrival of new customers lead one to believe that the feeling is being reciprocated.

• The RiverWalk Party Store, 321 Lynn Street, is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

• The public is invited to a Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 11, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. to coincide with the Danville Historical Society’s 38th Annual Holiday Tour that starts at 1 p.m.

• For more information, call 434.792.9255.

loved one has to come to realize, on their own, that there is a problem and then become motivated to accept the solution. Since you cannot control what your loved does you must change what you do. Are you acting as the persons “ears”? Are you making accommodations for your loved one’s hearing loss, like speaking louder or listening to TV at an uncomfortably loud level? It is important to change your behavior so that he/she realizes how much they are missing because of their hearing loss. This is done by no longer accommodating their hearing problems.

Don’t speak louder than comfortable for your own voice. Don’t play the TV at an uncomfortably loud level. Don’t be the “translator” for your hard of hearing loved one. All this must be done with compassion, not malice. People who are in denial about hearing loss do not know the burden they are putting on their family and friends. To have resentments, anger and frustration at your loved one who is in denial is understandable but should not influence your behavior.

The goal is not to punish your loved one but to help them realize the extent of their difficulties. It is especially important to be compassionate because the hard of hearing loved one may, upon realizing the extent of their difficulties, become sad or depressed.

A realistic solution to their hearing loss must be presented. That solution is a full evaluation by a Doctor of Audiology and getting appropriate hearing instruments. It must be added that in certain circumstances family counseling may be needed to address problems of depression and such.

To schedule a hearing evaluation and hearing instrument consultation please call (434) 791-4170 and speak with the receptionist.

Hearing Testing - Pediatric & Adult Hearing Aids & Aural Rehabilitation Assistive Listening Devices Custom-Made Swim Plugs Custom-Made Hearing Protection Race Car Driving Sets Payment Plan Available

159 Executive Dr. • Suite C • Danville, VA 24541 Fax 434.792.0468

434.792.0830 • 800.368.7183 Hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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December 2010

She Said

he Said

Larry's Christmas

As you know I am a very opinionated person so here is my opinion about Christmas. I think that we should celebrate Christmas all year long. We have never been to Myrtle Beach when we didn’t go into the Christmas store. It’s always jampacked. People are lined up at the counter to buy Christmas ornaments in April, July, August and October.

It seems to me that people want Christmas all year long, but no one is brave enough to bring it up for fear of people like you who are locked into a yearly pattern.

Well, I am one of the future thinkers of America and my new platform is to put Christmas in every month.

Think about it.

Everyone would be more joyous and happy every day.

Having Christmas every month would certainly help stimulate the economy with everyone buying presents, going off to exotic lands to celebrate the holiday and buying more food to have the families over for Christmas dinner every month. Think about all the new things we would be receiving as presents every month to make our lives more fulfilled and how happy all the children would be receiving presents every month. Think about how well-behaved the children would be everyday with parents threatening to tell Santa if they were bad, or threatening them with the idea each month that Santa is not coming this month. I do believe I am on a roll now and that this new idea of Christmas every month could be my ticket to fame. People all over the world will be calling it Larry's Christmas month. It will be named after me, of course, because I thought of it. In the spirit of Christmas, I do want to thank you for giving me the inspiration for this thought -provoking idea.

by Larry Oldham

by Dena Hill

Every year around September or October, you start asking me to put up the Christmas tree. Up until about 3 years ago, I always had a live tree, so it was hard to justify putting up a live tree in October resulting in a dead tree on Christmas morn. Since I now have a fake tree, as you now call it, you have a reason to start whining earlier than usual.

I have seen Christmas decorations all over town, including the stores where I went to pick up my Halloween candies.

It doesn’t seem right to walk through the Christmas section to get to the Halloween section.

We have just about by-passed Thanksgiving all together and I am sure if we had to buy something for Labor Day, we would have to go down the Christmas aisles to get to those presents too.

When I take a walk around the neighborhood in November, I am surprised to see Christmas decorations already lit on some houses. There are many reasons that this is not right. One, of course, is a higher utility bill in November, and second, I would be growing tired of Christmas by December 1.

Are we going to teach our children that Christmas starts in November, so that they can teach their children to start in November?

By the second or third generation our great-great -grandchildren will be celebrating Christmas in July. I have noticed that some of the retail stores are already having Christmas in July sales. Is this what the world is coming to? I sure hope not. So, Mr. Omnipotent, could you please move Halloween to September and Thanksgiving to October so we could have a longer time just to enjoy Christmas by itself?

She said He said

Merry Christmas from Dena and Larry!

He Said / She Said can be seen in Showcase Magazine.

Evince Magazine

“Scraps! We got ‘em!” read the sign at Tiny Two Tow’s Salvage and Repair. Okay, so it wasn’t poetry, but the fading blackand-rust edged marquee always made Tim Knox think, made him spread his fingers wide over the steering wheel of his pickup as if the world was somewhat right or could be, made him think that wouldn’t it be nice if life worked that way, salvaging.

Tim Knox sat on the edge of the salvage yard thinking, if things thrown away stayed away, when he knew they didn’t. They collected somewhere. And if you went looking for them, you might get them back or some part back, even if a little chipped and worn. And if you couldn’t, well then you salvaged something that you could.

So when Tim Knox saw Darla’s boy, he meant his ex-lover’s boy, the boy-not his—of the woman he lost his wife and family over, he looked back at the sign and sighed. He wasn’t even surprised to see Tyrion Wilston get out of the grey Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera even though he didn’t know the car.

It was raining lightly, but cold outside in pre-December. Tim wasn’t close enough to see the driver, but he could see the boy, tall, dark, awkward, angling from head to foot in all directions.

No umbrella, no real thick coat.

The salvage yard was on Granby Street, at least three miles from where the boy lived, and there wasn’t anything here but an inconvenient convenience store, railroad tracks, some rundown apartments and Tiny Two Tow’s Salvage and Repair. Tim had been here to find a muffler for a friend, but mostly just to look around. He liked the junkyard’s dirt paths, the cars piled like old metal and fiberglass bodies bunched on top of each other as if in sanctuary, the search and retrieve of things lost, busted, or forgotten; he even liked one of the old dogs, Dynamite, who barked like he still had teeth.

He liked how on a destroyed car one might find a perfectly good rear view mirror, faultless and reflecting, the practical and useful hiding in the destroyed and defunct.

So even though Tim had already found what he wanted, before he saw the boy, he went back on in behind the boy, like an anchor falling follows the current of water. The boy didn’t even look behind him. Tim didn’t ask himself why he followed.

Truth was whys rarely mattered.

Of course, the first thing he thought about was the robberies that had been happening on and around the boy’s street.

Was that why the boy was here?

Absently, Tim thought, people ain’t going to stop taking and he

Salvage

fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg knew it. The robberies still kept on like a rash that couldn’t get scratched. He just hoped the boy knew better than that.

He was ashamed to admit that he hadn’t thought of Darla’s kids much. He’d always thought of Tyrion as the boy, even though he could now see through the long sleeved t-shirts and tooshort jacket that his wrists and neck were becoming the man he would be. He’d made his purchase, held it tight in a grey plastic bag. Tim pulled his car up beside him walking in the rain.

Tim didn’t ask how he got here, the hows of things mattered less than the whys of things. So Tim just rolled down the window and beckoned with his hands for him to come on in. It took the boy a minute to recognize him; then he jerked and kept on walking. Tim started to say, “Come on boy”, because he wasn’t sure about the name, but then remembered and called him by it. Outside, it rained a little harder. “Be a cold, long walk. I’d get in.”

Tim turned up the heat when Tyrion shivering and sullen got in. Tyrion put his package between them. The red light held them from forward; the railroad tracks ran across their way; Tim kept his foot tight on the brake.

He could have said, “You stealing that stuff, boy?” but if he was, he would lie. And if he knew who did, he couldn’t tell and still stay on the block. The only thing they had in common was the woman they couldn’t mention. So when the light changed, Tim took his foot off the brake and they went ahead into the evening rain.

Tyrion looked out the window like anger and bad times were more his companions than other kids on the block, and for a couple of seconds Tim saw what seemed like his reflection and

the boy’s together in the side window and turned away. Two blocks from his house, Tyrion said, voice crackling and deep at the same time, “Drop me off here? Thanks, t…thanks, man.”

The boy had never known what to call him. His manner said, “Don’t let my mama see you.”

Tyrion opened the door.

And Tim had a quick thought of the boy’s eyes getting darker and colder, and how he knew that the next time he saw the boy he wouldn’t come in out of the rain, wouldn’t take comfort, and how nothing can live without comfort and care without drawing damage.

Tyrion now stood on the sidewalk, the car part still in the grey bag.

And so even though Tyrion was really too old to respond to a man’s voice with obedience, he did. And even though Tim had promised never to go back to Darla’s, he said the words that made sure he would, words that pretty much ensured he wouldn’t get his ex-wife, Clarisse, back again. Tim pushed the door open with just enough force and said, “Boy, get in the car. (Tyrion got back in.) Tell your mama I’ll fix that old car of hers too. You don’t know what you doing, do you?”

By now in the driveway, Tyrion

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hugged the part in his hand and pulled it closer.

‘Cause it was cold and Tim was careful to keep his eyes straight ahead, and because water in the boy’s eyes could have been rain, and because goodbyes and regrets are just doors you open and close, Tim went to the boy’s mother’s door, saw the pulse in her neck, her small smile, when she saw it was him and misunderstood his intention.

And Tyrion sat in the car holding the part to his chest like he didn’t believe it was real, like this small clunk of metal in a plastic bag, from a salvage yard could not have brought something good to him. Tim could have told him that the good of life was like that, the hows and the whys nothing but the dirt in that junkyard, the junkyard nothing but flavors of our desires that we somehow in our greed tore apart. Tim thought of Clarisse and his own two who didn’t talk to him much. Tim could have said more about life too, that the bad of life was a horse-breathed wish to a horse that just lost the race, but he didn’t. He looked back at the boy holding the scrap part, remembered the sign, saw Tyrion look at him and slightly raise his chin in question, and Tim was amazed at how both knew enough to salvage what they could.

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Evince Magazine

Taking the High Road It’s a good thing I named this column Second Thoughts.

Without thinking twice, I could have left a very special place with a wrong first impression.

For someone who doesn’t like to travel, I’m on the go a lot. Flying has spoiled me. Since I know that I can be in Orlando in less than two hours and Las Vegas in five, I have little patience with riding in a car.

When Robert suggested a long anniversary weekend, I mistakenly thought only the weekend would be long. Not the journey.

After six hours on the road, I found out differently. Here’s the thing…after that much time has passed, there’d better be a beach on the other end. There’d better be neon marquees lining the streets and at the very least there’d better be wireless Internet in my room, so I can check email in my jammies.

Besides, I can’t wander down to a lobby at midnight to check facebook. I don’t own a robe and even if I did, I couldn’t wear it for something like that. My mama raised me right. You save the good stuff… in case, God forbid, you should ever have to go to the hospital.

But, back to the drive. When we finally got to the Snowbird Mountain Lodge on the Cherohala Skyway, I knew I was doomed. The sign out front read, “Where the mountains kiss the sky.” They ought to have added, “So you can kiss your

Second T houghts

by Kim Clifton ©2010

BlackBerry goodbye.” Messages from there are better sent with smoke signals than cell signals.

It really wasn’t hate at first sight.

The lodge had enormous charm.

Guests were everywhere in the lobby…reading books, warming themselves in front of the fire, painting on easeled canvases, and playing games of chess and Scrabble. There was so much khaki and GORE-TEX in that room it looked like either the set from Newhart or the cover of an L.L. Bean catalog. What bothered me most was not the surroundings. It was the quiet. In a room filled with people, the silence was deafening. Not only were there no phones, there were no televisions either.

When I realized I was totally cut off from the digital world, a feeling of anxiety came over me. I actually held my laptop out of

the bathroom window in a pathetic attempt to find a wireless signal. I was as desperate to find a fix as a junkie on a street corner trying to score a dime bag.

What added insult to injury was the registration receipt that Robert forgot to hide. I freaked when I realized that for that kind of money we could have gone on a cruise.

We could have taken in several Broadway shows or at the very least replaced our washer and dryer. I was not a happy camper.

Until the next morning, that is, when it began to snow. There’s something about being in a setting that looks like the ending scene of White Christmas that changes you.

As everything outside started to freeze, my insides started to thaw.

I curled up in a corner surrounded by floor-to-ceiling bookshelves

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and rediscovered how good musty pages can smell. Together Robert and I spent the day flipping through volumes on local history rather than clicking website links.

I started talking to people with my voice instead of my keyboard.

I ate amazing meals that could never have been ordered from my car window. I found out just how sweet dreams can be from under a hand-sewn quilt especially after a steaming bath sprinkled with lavender salts. The rustic living began to soften more than my skin. I found myself going from panic to peace.

That’s why from all of the pictures I took from this trip, this is the only one I want to show you. It was a sign hung above each bedroom door with a simple explanation of what the word really means.

Besides, I’d like to keep the rest of the photos just for me, if you don’t mind. Unless you’ve been there, I can’t expect you to feel what I feel when I look at them.

As crazy as it sounds, I’m glad that getting there wasn’t an easy drive or I may not have stayed to experience just how special this lodge could be. I may never have found a place where being disconnected from the world made me feel connected to it again.

There’s an old hymn that promises there will be peace in the valley for me some day.

I never thought I’d find it on top of old Smokey.

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December 2010

The holidays are such a happy season--a whirlwind of activities. I love this whirlwind, but in previous years, I’ve hung on for dear life while I’m whirled from event to event and have ended up so exhausted that I couldn’t fully enjoy the season.

Perhaps readers plan better than I do, but for those who have this same sense of feeling rushed, this column is for you.

As I thought about how to better manage the holiday whirlwind, the problem of having to balance so many conflicting priorities confused me. I had to think about my core beliefs to get it all straight.

I believe that time is my most precious commodity. I must decide how to spend my time and I have to make it count. Another core belief centers around honoring the holidayrelated religious traditions through church events and other religious activities. I actually put holiday church services on my planner to make sure we can attend.

Readers, let’s assume that we share these two core beliefs -the feeling that time is a scarce commodity and the imperative to honor our holiday-related religious activities. Let’s also assume up front that we will reserve time for our individual religious traditions.

Thus, the question becomes: How can we make sure we allocate our scarcest commodity, time, to the rest of the activities and events that really matter during this rushed season?

To answer this question, I decided I would try something different this year. I would make a list of what really mattered, then use a planner

Reflecting Forward Enjoying the Whirlwind of the Holidays

by Linda Lemery

to make sure I honored the items on the list. The time left over would be flexible time. It all sounds so nutsand-boltsy, but I’d never done this before in such a calendar-based way.

After reserving time for religious traditions, here’s my list of essential activities: e Spending time with and supporting my husband, sons, elderly mother, extended family, and friends. This time could be spent at meals, at holiday events, or just chatting together. e Honoring my work relationships and commitments and the people

who help us continue to be who we really are throughout the year. e Continuing to support people experiencing illness or death of a loved one with cards, food, or visits. e Sending holiday letters and cards to keep in touch with our circle of support. e Maintaining health. e Participating in a family service project.

By making this list, I realized that, for me, the relationships mattered the most.

Next, I logged every holiday event I could find into our planner. My elderly mother loves to go to these events-- my family, not so much. I also logged all my work commitments so that I could honor those.

Planning holiday meals that my family actually likes and that don’t take me forever in the kitchen was next. I also addressed all the holiday cards and hope to finalize our family holiday letter and all the personal messages by midDecember. I decided to continue my exercise program and diet as much as possible through the holidays. I called the Community Christmas Dinner people to volunteer our immediate family for time during this service project. After doing all this, I hoped there would be time for the other events, commitments, and gettogethers that inevitably crop up.

I don’t know whether this approach will work, but I feel a lot less stressed having some kind of a plan for December before it rolls over me and I’m flattened from exhaustion. Wake me up in January to find out what I missed and how much of the plan worked.

Happy holidays!

About the Author: Linda Lemery’s llemery@averett.edu work/study students decorated the holiday tree at Mary B. Blount Library at Averett University the second week in November because they leave for winter break December 9th and wanted to have time to enjoy it. Through actions like this, they have taught her a lot about relationships and planning.

Evince Magazine

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

To encourage exceptional customer service, the Dan River Hospitality and Travel Committee of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and Evince will 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 joyceevincemagazinecom or visit www.dpchamber.org; click What's New - Customer Service Award Nomination.

by Clyde & Susan Long

Note: Although the following note is not about customer service, it exemplifies what is expected for winners of the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award.

It’s also a message for all to remember. Every person who encounters out-oftown visitors has the potential of being a goodwill ambassador through courteous, friendly actions that encourage travelers to stay and enjoy our community.

When we decided to detour through Danville on our way home in Bristol, we had no idea that it was a veritable treasure trove of magnificent mansions!

The sheer grandness of scope and architectural detail demanded to be photographed. The beautiful autumn weather made for a pleasant stroll up and down Main Street as we delighted in the sight of brick and mortar castles, each more impressive than the last. The colored terra cotta tile and immaculately landscaped yard of Paul and Marjory Liepe’s home set it apart.

We were both surprised and thrilled when Paul and Marjory appeared around the corner of their home and invited us in for a tour.

Words fail as they often do when tasked to describe a beauty and ambience that only the hands of skilled artisans from a bygone era and the passage of time itself can create. Their home is simply stunning, from the elaborate fireplaces and mantles and stately pocket doors to the exquisite furnishings with which it is adorned. We have vowed to return for the Danville Holiday Tour, if circumstances permit this year.

In the meantime, we would like to nominate them as Danville’s Chief Ambassadors of Tourism for their generosity and kindness in sharing with others the history and heritage of their home and community.

Again, many thanks for the hospitality.

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December 2010

December Calendar

Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row, The Secrets Inside. 434.770.1974. www.danvillehistoricalsociety.org.

Through January 2

Science Center Exhibits See story pg 18.

Through January 8

Eyes on Earth Exhibit. Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH), Martinsville – 276.634.4141.

December 1 & 7

SHS Open House – Tour school and visit classrooms. 12/1, 9am-12 pm; 12/7, 11am1pm. Sacred Heart School – 434.793.2656.

December 6 & 13

Boogie Monday – 12/6, Review, 7-8:30 pm.

12/13 Christmas Party, 6-9 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

December 1 (thru 29)

Koates Kids Pre-School Program – Ages 3-5. T/W 9:30 am–12 pm. Coates Rec. 434.797.8848.

RiverCity Toastmasters. Wed. 1-2 pm.

National College. 434.793.6822.

December 1 (thru 31)

Ongoing programs/classes – belly dancing, zumba, aqua zumba, aikido, PowerKatz, water aerobics, lap and regular swims, exercise room, pool parties, lockins, room rental for private events. YWCA – 434.792.1522.

Live bands & DJ music. Wed-Sat. Back to Bogies – 434.791.3444.

December 2

Bob Ross Painting Class – dock scene.

10 am–3:30 pm. Piedmont Arts (PAA), Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Alzheimer's Presentation – Elder Law Specialist. 12–1 pm. Craghead Street.

434.792.3700.

Tunstall HS Band Booster Fundraiser 5-8 pm. Wendys Piney Forest Rd. 434.710.4408.

Chest & Shoulder Hoop Class. 5:306:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

December 2 (thru 5)

A Christmas Carol – The classic tale of greed and redemption. 7 pm/2 pm.

Black Box Theatre, Uptown Martinsville.

276.632.2800 or 276.632.3221.

December 2 (thru 16)

Aqua Zumba – Combine the high energy of the Latin rhythms created in zumba with water. Thursdays 5:30-6:30 pm. YWCA. 434.797.8848.

December 2 (thru 30)

Aquacize – Aerobic workout that is easy on knees, ankles and other joints. Thursdays 8:15 am. YWCA. 434.797.8848.

Curiosity Corner – Make crafts, play games. Ages 3-5. TH 9:30 am-12:30 pm.

Coates Rec. 434.799.6564.

Chicks w/ Sticks – knitting & crocheting class. T/Th 11:30 am-1 pm. City Armory.

434.797.8848.

57 Express Bluegrass Concert.

Thursdays 7 pm. Community Center, Chatham – www.chathamcares.org.

December 3

DMFAH Candlelight Tour - See story page 18.

Open House. 3-10 pm. Rives Theatre, Martinsville. 276.632.5688.

Christmas Tree Lighting. 5:30-6:30 pm.

Uptown Courthouse, Martinsville.

276.632.5688.

Ralph Stanley II. 7 pm. Gretna Theatre.

434.656.3377.

COA Dance – music by City Limits Band, for ages 50+. 7:30-10:30 pm.

Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

December 3 & 4

Uptown Holiday Open House – Handcrafted items for purchase, entertainment, refreshments, prizes. 12/3 2-7 pm & 12/4 10am-3 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center (SVAC) – 276.632.0066.

Holiday Open House – Holiday-themed arts and crafts, music and studio tours.

12/3 5-7 pm, 12/4 10 am-4 pm. Studio 107, Martinsville – 276.638.2107.

Three Spirits of Christmas. Times vary.

The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

Gretna Little Theatre Auditions - Pride & Prejudice and Dixie Swim Club. 12/3 7:30 pm, 12/4 - 1-3 pm. Gretna Center for the Arts. 434.656.3377.

December 3 & 17

December 6 (thru 20)

Food for Fines. Danville Public Library See story page 18.

December 7

Cooking Demonstration – featuring Southwestern Chicken Salad. 6:30-8:30 pm.

Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Spend Your Bike $ Wisely – 7-8 pm.

Ballou Nature Center – 434.799.5216.

December 7 (thru 28)

African Dance Ensemble – Learn African Dance. Tues 6:30 pm. Pepsi Building.

434.797.8848.

December 8

Homeschool Wednesdays – Energy: It's Everywhere. Ages 6-10 & 11-18.

10-11:15 am. VMNH – 276.634.4185.

Alzheimer's Presentation – caregiver stress relief techniques. 12–1 pm.

Craghead Street. 434.792.3700.

‘Twas the Night before Christmas.

Caswell County Civic Center -See page 18.

Story Time – Children’s Department.

11 am-12 pm. Danville Public Library.

434.799.5195 X 4.

December 8 & 22

Wine Tasting and Blues Music. 6-9 pm.

Uptown Southern Bistro, Martinsville.

276.666.8919.

December 9

December 3, 17 & 31 December 4

Holiday Farmers' Market. Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961.

SPCA Jingle Paws 5K Walk/Run. 9 am.

Farmers Market, Martinsville. 276.732.2807.

Holiday Season at the Farmers' Market.

9 am-1 pm. Uptown Martinsville.

276.632.5688.

DMFAH Christmas at Janie’s House -See story page 18.

DRBA’s First Saturday Outing – Take in a breathtaking view of the south side of Hanging Rock while hiking on private property adjacent to Hanging Rock State Park. 10 am. 336.344.0772.

Caswell County Christmas Parade. 10 am.

Downtown Yanceyville. 336.694.6106.

Bob Ross Painting Class – Dock Scene.

10:30 am–3:30 pm. Ballou Park.

434.797.8848.

Chatham Christmas Parade. 11 am. Main Street, Chatham. 434.250.1634.

Tree Lighting Festival. 4:30-5:30 pm.

Ballou Park. 434.799.5215.

South Boston Christmas Parade. 5 pm.

Downtown South Boston. 434.575.4208.

Elena Martín and José Melitón Concert.

Danville Concert Association. See page 18.

December 4 & 5

Pet Photos with Santa. 11 am-4 pm.

PetSmart. Danville Area Humane Society – 434.793.0441.

December 4 & 11

Breakfast with Santa. 8:30 am. Yancey House Restaurant - 336.694.4225.

Special Saturdays – 12/4-A Night under the Stars, Ages 10+, 7-8 pm; 12/11-Scrumdidlyumptious Holiday Treats, Ages 5-8, 10 am-12 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185.

December 5

Christmas with the Prizery Singers – 2 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

Hormonal Imbalance –An estrogen fueled hilarious new show that celebrates the best of babes, boys, and Botox. 7:30 pm. Kirby Theater, Roxboro, NC. 336.597.1709.

The Tao of Harmony – Learn how to increase harmony in daily living. 5:30– 6:30 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Twinkle Trees – Preschoolers (ages 3-5) make tree ornaments. 9-10 am.

City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Book Discussion Series. Pittsylvania County Public Library See story page 18.

Spend Your Boat $ Wisely – 6-7 pm.

Ballou Nature Center – 434.799.5216.

Tell Me a Story, Santa Claus. 6:30-8 pm.

Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

Christmas Fine Arts Evening – Presented

by SHS students in grades K-3. 7 pm.

Sacred Heart Church. 434.793.2656.

December 9 & 16

The Zen of Chocolate – Relax while preparing delicious chocolate dishes.

6-8:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

December 9 (thru 19)

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Story features the rag-tag Herdman family children as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. Times/days vary. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

December 10

Holiday Candle Making. 3-5 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Jingle Bell Jamboree. 7 pm. Rives Theatre, Martinsville. 276.632.5688.

Christmas Ball – Music by City Limits Band, for ages 50+. 7:30-10:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Danville Shag Club Dance – 8-11 pm.

The Dance Space 1010 Piney Forest Road

December 10 & 11

A Christmas Story – Little Theatre of Danville presents a dinner theatre/stage version of the Christmas movie favorite. 6 pm/1 pm.

Mount Hermon Courtyard – 434.836.5009.

December 11

Korean Happy Warriors Breakfast – All Veterans, family and friends are welcome.

8 am. Comfort Inn. 434.792.3825.

Santa Plate. – Bring the kids and create a unique plate for Santa Claus. 9am-1 pm.

SVAC – 276.632.0066.

YWCA/Alzheimer’s Association/DHS/ Riverview Rotary See story page 18.

Santa's Workshop. 10 am-12 pm. Coates Center. 434.799.6564.

DECember 2010

S M

T

W T 1 2 5 6 7 8 9 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

Brunswick stew – Fundraiser for Sons of the American Legion Programs. 12-3 pm.

American Legion Dan River Post 1097.

434.836.8101 Metropolitan Opera Performance – Verdi's Don Carlo. 12:30 pm. Danville Stadium Cinema – 434.792.9885.

Danville Christmas Parade See ad pg 14.

Science on a Sphere – Using GPS data, computers and projectors to display compelling images of elements in the solar system. Danville Science Center (DSC) – 434.791.5160.

December 11 & 12

DHS Holiday Tour See story page 12 and ad page 8.

December 12

A Mouse Christmas – Children's Christmas musical. 10:30 am. Moffett Memorial Baptist Church – 434.799.5402.

Avant-Garde Writers. 2 pm. Averett U. Library. 434.251.1062.

Gretna Christmas Parade. 3 pm. Main Street, Gretna. 434.656.6572.

Christmas Handbell Concert – Krista Shinew and Amy Keesee. 4 pm. Moffett Memorial Baptist Church – 434.799.5402.

Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops.

7-9 pm. Martinsville HS Auditorium. PAA – 276.632.3221.

December 14

Polliwogs & Science Stars – Explore the sights, smells, textures and sounds associated with winter and create colorful holiday treats and ornaments. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Ages 5–7, 3:30–4:30 pm. DSC 434.791.5160.

Trip to Castle McCulloch, Jamestown, NC – Castle will be decorated for the holiday season. 5-10 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

December 15

Doodle Bugs – Holiday Helpers. Ages 3-5.

10 am & 3 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185.

Open House – 3-5 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

December 16

A Crafty Christmas – Preschoolers (ages 3-5) make special personalized gifts.

9-10 am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Alzheimer's Presentation – The 5 Wishes Directive Workshop. 12–1 pm. Craghead Street. 434.792.3700.

Holiday Lights Tour. 6-8 pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215.

Sky Watchers – Observe the constellation Cepheus the King, Orion the Hunter and the planet Jupiter with its four largest moons. Nightfall. DSC – 434.791.5160.

December 17

Logos of Life. 7:30-9 pm. YWCA – 434.792.1522.

December 17 & 21

Santa Calling – Child must be registered by 12/17. Calls will be made 12/21. 5:308 pm. 434.799.5200 or 434.797.8848.

December 18

Book Signing – Larry Aaron.

See ad page 6.

Tiny Miss Danville-Pittsylvania County Pageant. 6 pm. Chatham Middle School. 434.724.4343.

Danville Symphony Orchestra Concert.

See story page 18.

December 19

Canticle of Joy – A Cantata for Christmas 10:30 am. Moffett Memorial Baptist Church – 434.799.5402.

Evince Magazine

December 20

An Evening of Music – Celebrate the diverse talents of the Ballou Choir, Ballou Jammers, Monday Steppers, belly dancers, African dancers and drummers, guitar players and more. 6 pm. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

December 21

Holiday Bingo & Songs – Learn holiday songs from around the world and play Snowman Bingo. 5:30-7 pm. Danville Public Library. 434.799.5195 X 4.

December 27 (thru 29)

Holiday Performing Arts Camp – With professional guest instructors for kindergarten through college age.

DMR Adventures - 434.791.4091.

December 28

Kwanzaa Celebration – Bringing generations and cultures together.

5:30 pm. Squire Rec Center.

434.797.8848.

December 31

New Years Eve Dance – Music by City Limits Band, for ages 50+. 8:30 pm12:30 am. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

Upcoming Events January 1

Superhero Temp Agency – Musical starring your favorite nursery rhyme characters. 3 & 7 pm. Location TBA. DMR Adventures - 434.791.4091.

January 8

Miss Danville Pittsylvania County Pageant

Page 11

Walking through Schoolfield

by Mack Williams

The other evening I was taking my exercise walk and felt like going further than my usual stopping point at Ballou Park. So, I continued towards the old Schoolfield Division of Dan River Mills. Its present state is one of slow dismantlement, the bricks being removed one- by- one and kept in piles to be used to build something else, someplace else.

I passed by one of the former lots where employees once parked. The painted lines which once marked the spaces were faded almost to invisibility. The asphalt was cracked by chance into circular shapes, much the same way as mud does when it dries and cracks. In the absence of the painted markings, each of these new spaces was marked by a ring of high weeds growing in the cracks around it.

I passed by the deserted brick buildings that reminded me somewhat of old brick classroom buildings in some of the older high schools and colleges. In similar- looking buildings, students had once studied chemistry and then

practiced what they had learned in a lab. In this particular “school” of Schoolfield, work was not only taught, but practiced as well, in many cases for the length of one’s working life.

There was a crescent moon in the evening sky adjacent to a jagged black silhouette of the old mill building that was being slowly taken apart during the 9 to 5 work hours of the day.

I thought to myself-- the moon will continue to wax, becoming full, then repeat the cycle innumerable times , as it has since its formation. The black, fragmented, silhouetted image of bricks against the sky, however, will become less and less with the subtraction of each brick, never waxing again, only waning into non-existence.

Page 12

December 2010

A Mill, Mansions, and More on Annual Holiday Tour

by Joyce Wilburn

Have you ever been past the White Mill on Memorial Drive and wished that you could see the inside? Or maybe driven down Main Street’s Millionaires’ Row and thought it would be fun to look at the interior of a mansion? On the weekend of December 11and 12 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. each day, the Danville Historical Society is giving you that chance. The 38th Annual DHS Holiday Tour, the Vintage Collection, will focus on the former mill, two Victorian mansions and several other historic buildings that have been re-purposed.

John Gieser of White Mill Development is allowing the White Mill to be on tour because of the community’s curiosity about what was happening inside the former Dan River Mill #8 building.

He describes this tour as a once-in-a lifetime opportunity, “It will probably never be open to the public once new tenants take occupancy.” Referring to its solid concrete construction, he adds, “This building will be here in 1,000 years and that makes it perfect for businesses that deal with technology.”

Another re-purposed building on tour is the former F.X. Burton Tobacco Factory that is now The Burton Condominiums. Local designer Liz O’Daniel, who is working with others on a Designer Showcase in one unit, explains, “Four designers are bringing their individual talents together and working as a team to show the possibilities of repurposed items like side tables made from old wood and spools from Dan River Mill made into accessories.”

She promises that the work of designers Amanda Marley, Matt Smith, Andy Newland and herself will evoke a youthful, fun feeling. “We are working together to make Danville a better place and to show that reusing is better than throwing away,” adds the DHS Board member.

Other highlights include the apartments at the former Westmoreland and Schoolfield Schools and the Averett University Bookstore located in the former John Schoolfield House. “Both floors of the book store will be decorated and the back garden will have a tree with edible ornaments for the birds,” says Liz. There are a dozen more stops on the two-day tour, plus refreshments at the Moseley Memorial United Methodist Church at the corner of Berryman and Colquohoun Streets and daily piano or organ concerts at the former Main Street United Methodist Church, the current home of the Danville Preservation League. Organist Baxter Jennings will play 15-minute concerts on Saturday starting at 2 p.m. Pianist Michael Leonhardt will play 15-minute concerts on Sunday starting at 2 p.m.

Music, mansions, a mill, and more—fortunately, it’s a two-day tour because it might take two days to do it all. n Advance tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Foxglove, The GingerBread House, Rippe’s and Invitation Destination. n Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the tour for $20 at the White Mill; The Burton on Bridge Street; 130 Holbrook Avenue (Bill & Kay Trakas home); or 954 Main Street (Bill Haynsworth House). n Tour-takers can register at each location for door prizes. n For more information, visit www.danvillehistoricalsociety.org or call 434.770.1974.

Evince Magazine

Page 13

Book Clubbing

The Caswell Book Club, Submitted by Janie Leigh Carter Who & When: The Caswell Book Club is a small group that meets at the Yancey House Restaurant, 699 U.S. Highway 158 West, in Yanceyville, North Carolina, five times a year on the first Wednesday in September, November, January, March and May. We meet from 9:30 a.m. until11:00 a.m. Some people choose to stay and have lunch afterwards. The Yancey House always offers coffee and usually a delectable treat during the discussion. The group is open to all and walk-ins are welcomed. Members come from Danville, Virginia, Reidsville, Roxboro, Greensboro and Caswell County, North Carolina. A volunteer leads a discussion on the selected book.

Recently Read: In November, the group read 27 Views of Hillsborough: A Southern Town in Prose and Poetry with an introduction by Michael Malone, author and professor of theater studies at Duke University. Over two dozen authors, who currently live in Hillsborough, North Carolina, or who have lived there in the past, use fiction, essays, and poetry to tell of the community's past and present. Their contributions range from a moving story about the death of the writer’s mother to a story about fallen trees and the loss felt by the owner.

A wonderful essay about the racial history of Hillsborough was written by Orange County District Court Judge Beverly Scarlett. Other contributing authors include: New York Times Best Seller Lee Smith, and award-winners Hal Crowther, Allan Gurganus, and Randall Kenan.

We were treated to a special discussion by Sharon Wheeler, the owner of The Purple Crow Bookstore, 109 West King Street, in Hillsborough. She talked about the many famous authors who live in the town and how they have supported her efforts in opening the store. Wheeler also shared her story of grief after the loss of her husband to cancer and how she found the courage to meet the challenge of opening her own business.

What’s next: January 5, 2011: Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Education in Afghanistan and Pakistan by Greg Mortenson; March 2: The Help

by Kathryn Stockett; May 4: Participants talk about books they have enjoyed throughout the year and offer suggestions for books to be discussed in 2011-2012.

Contact: janieleighc@hotmail.com or call 336.514-0707 Editor’s Note: Please send info about your book club to joyce@evincemagazine.com.

FUR OUTERWEAR VALUE

THE STORE NEXT DOOR

over 100 years of fashion Famous for better and designer sportswear, dresses, accessories, career/occasion suits and outerwear. In addition, we have special departments for women’s sizes and furs, and a separate shoe store next door!

HOLIDAY FASHION SALE - Huge groups in every dept, including COATS & FURS sizes 0-26 petite, misses, women’s; shoes 5-11 euro 35-42 559 main st. danville, va • m-sat 10-5:30 • 434.792.6822 • rippes.com

Page 14

December 2010

Randy Savage’s CD Celebrates the Seasons of Halifax County

by Debra Savage

Although it is not Randy Savage’s first CD, Toot’s Creek--Instrumental Music Inspired by the Seasons of Halifax, Virginia is the first to salute the richness and natural beauty of the area that drew him to settle there. He explains how this happened, “After playing for a few years around the state, I was invited to record with Robert Jospe’s Inner Rhythm. We stayed at his farm in Stanardsville, and the peaceful and beautiful surroundings really appealed to me. Fast forward to 2010 and I am living this dream in the gentle rolling hills of Southern Virginia with my wife and daughter. The sounds and silences of the rural life make the perfect canvas for music-making and continue to inspire me to discover my music and the music of others whom I have had the good fortune to encounter.”

Savage’s musical ability and versatility are found in the numerous instruments he is able to play, but also in the range of musical style, from classical to rock, church music to jazz. He has played in every imaginable venue with locally-known and nationally-known musicians. He has written and performed scores for documentaries, radio and television commercials, and a film that was purchased

by HBO. Each song on his latest CD reflects an aspect of one of the four seasons and showcases his performance ability on various instruments including piano, guitar, and Native American flute. n Savage’s new CD can be purchased at Toot’s Creek Antiques, 5293 Halifax Road in downtown Halifax. n Also available is Christmas in Historic Halifax--Popular Carols from the 18th Century, with sounds and instruments commonly played in homes and churches during the period of settlement. n For more information, visit erandolphsavage.weebly.com.

Evince Magazine Paid Advertisement

Ponderings

by Torrey Blackwell

Your Dealer for the People

WARNING! You’re Killing Your Car And You Don’t Even Know It! Your automobile is one of the biggest investments you’ll make- that’s why it would be wise for you to keep it running well for as long as possible. Especially in today’s tough economic climate where money wasted on costly auto repairs could instead be used to build your savings, pay off bills, or buy those little “extras” this Christmas. The best way to preserve the condition and resale value of your car or truck is to follow the recommended maintenance schedule from the manufacturer. This maintenance schedule is in your owner’s manual and most automobiles have two recommended schedules from which to follow. By the way, if you don’t have an owner’s manual go to your local dealer and purchase one ASAP! This is the bible for your car and in order to maintain the condition and value of your investment just match your driving conditions to the appropriate schedule and follow it in its entirety.

Besides the maintenance schedule, there is one other factor that you should consider when preserving the value of your vehicle. WASH IT! Detail your car twice per year. Detail the interior and exterior of your automobile, vacuum, and shampoo any stains from the carpet or seats. Wax your car annually with a good wax like Meguiars and make sure the wax residue is removed. If you don’t like detailing your automobiles ask your dealer if they offer detailing services or companies that they would recommend.

I know it’s early for New Year’s resolutions, but for 2011 I hope you will try these tips and Stop Killing the Value of Your Car! Torrey Blackwell is a Christian businessman and consumer advocate. He has spent his life fighting the negative stigma that plagues car dealers around the world. He does this by fighting for the consumer as a car dealer who advises people and helps them buy the quality vehicle they want and deserve in a positive and safe environment.

Where Can I Find an Evince?

Ten thousand copies of Evince are distributed each month at over 100 locations in Danville, Martinsville, South Boston, Chatham, Gretna, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, and in Yanceyville, Pelham, Roxboro, and Eden, North Carolina. Find your copy at: Danville The Invitation Destination / 411 Main St Dixie Bags & More Gift Shop 136 South Ridge Street Averett U. Book Store / 354 West Main Street H. W. Brown Florist / 431 Chestnut Street (They deliver an Evince with your flower order.)

Danville Community College Temple Building 1008 South Main Street Danville Regional Medical Center 142 South Main Street

Chatham Area Chathamooca / 33 North Main Street Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce / 8653 U.S. Highway 29, Blairs Chatham Community Center / Main Street Health Center of the Piedmont / Main Street In Yanceyville Chamber of Commerce / 15 Main Street East Caswell County Civic Center 536 Main St. East The Yancey House 699 U.S. Highway 158 West

Page 15

Page 16

December 2010 Paid Advertisement

Is Obesity a Terrorist Killing America?

by Dave Gluhareff MFS,CFT-ISSA

With the intensity of politics all around us, we sometimes forget about what our own priorities should be. Too many times we are focused on what each political party is not doing and forget what departments we ourselves are lacking in. We quickly forget the fact that many Americans are suffering and dying every day by not taking simple steps to protect their health. How many terrorist attacks have claimed American lives this past year? I bet there have not been as many as the lives claimed by obesity!

According to our federal government, by way of the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), we lose nearly 300,000 Americans each year to obesity related illnesses.

Here are just a few diseases and illnesses associated with obesity: hypertension (high blood pressure), acid reflux, osteoarthritis (a degeneration of cartilage and its underlying bone within a joint), angina, dyslipidemia (for example, high total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides), allergies, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, anxiety/stress, bursitis, tendonitis, stroke, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon), insomnia, menstrual problems, PMS, back pains.

The following is from the office of the U.S. Surgeon General: (www. surgeongeneral.gov): The facts about overweight and obesity: 61% of adults in the U. S. were overweight or obese (BMI > 25)* in 1999; 13% of children aged 6 to 11 years and 14% of adolescents aged 12 to 19 years were overweight* in 1999. This prevalence has nearly tripled for adolescents in the past 2 decades. The increases in overweight and obesity cut across all ages, racial and ethnic groups, and both genders. 300,000 deaths each year in the United States are associated with obesity. Overweight and obesity are associated with heart disease, certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, stroke, arthritis, breathing problems, and psychological disorders, such as depression. The economic cost of obesity in the United States was about $117 billion in 2000.

This is our own doing and many times we are all guilty of eating the wrong foods and passing on exercise and healthy activities. These statistics are not the fault of our president or either political party. They are a direct result of our own choices we make each day.

Many times we eat too much junk and skip regular exercise. Then our bodies fall prey to one of the above illnesses. We need to make it our #1 priority each week to work on living a healthier lifestyle. We can all do this by eating healthy foods and partaking in healthy activities and getting plenty of rest. We can succeed in slowing down and even stopping this terrorist known as obesity.

For more information call 434.728.0952, email trainwithdaveg@yahoo.com or visit

www.TrainWith Dave.com.

Evince Magazine

All I Want for Christmas...

by Annelle Williams

Find more recipes, on my blog: http://aroundannellestable.blogspot.com/ Serves 2-4 1/3 cup all purpose flour ½ cup whole milk 2 large eggs, lightly beaten pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 4 T unsalted butter 2 T confectioners' sugar juice of ½ lemon jelly, jam, or marmalade, for serving

I have quite a collection of cookbooks, stacks of old holiday magazines sporting beautiful birds and decorated trees, and many folders of paper scraps torn from various periodicals, all with scribbled notes in the margins. My collection of recipes reminds me of the photo box most of us own, with pictures from years past all shaken together--fun to look through, but far from organized.

Amanda Hesser, food writer for the New York Times, has put together a wonderfully organized collection of classic recipes featured in the paper over the past 150 years--one book with all the best of the best right at your fingertips. No more wondering where the old favorites might be hiding. They're all in The Essential New York Times Cookbook.

I recently saw Amanda on the Martha Stewart show demonstrating one of her favorite classics, the David Eyre's Pancake from 1966. Apparently, this pancake has quite a following. I knew immediately it was going to be my Christmas breakfast served with our favorite fruit compote and eggnog lattes.

Add this easy, but elegantly delicious dish to your holiday repertoire. And if you happen to see Santa, please pass on this hint: all cooks, including me, would love to find a copy of The Essential New York Times Cookbook under their tree on Christmas morning!

Happy Holidays to all.

David Eyre's Pancake

Preheat oven to 425°. In a medium bowl, lightly beat flour, milk, eggs, and nutmeg until combined. Batter will be slightly lumpy. Melt butter in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Add flour mixture and transfer to oven.

Bake until pancake is golden brown, 1520 minutes.

Sprinkle pancake with sugar and return to oven for 2 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with lemon juice; serve

Page 17

We’re

on Danville!

Janet Laura • Holley Lewis Owner/Broker Owner/Broker

immediately with jelly, jam, marmalade or Fruit Compote.* *Fruit Compote 1 (16oz.) can each of cherries, apricot halves, plums (remove seeds) 1 (12oz.) bag fresh cranberries 2 tsp. curry powder (optional) ¼ cup rum (optional) 4 T butter, melted 1 cup light brown sugar 1 cup old fashioned oats Preheat oven to 350°. Drain fruit and add the juice to a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add cranberries and cook until they pop, about 4-5 minutes. Drain cranberries.

HOLLEY & LEWIS Butter a casserole dish. Pour all drained fruit into dish, and stir to combine.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Spread evenly over fruit.

Place in oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until topping is browned and fruit is bubbling.

Keep leftovers in frig and keep reheating. It only gets better.

REALTY COMPANY

339 Piney Forest Rd., Danville, VA 24540

Office: (434) 791-2400 Fax: (434) 791-2122 Visit our website at

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Page 18

December 2010

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

Here are a few highlights of activities you don’t want to miss this month. Cut out the ones that interest you; post them on your refrigerator as a reminder; enjoy a new experience. For more activities, see the calendar on page 10.

Wednesday, December 1 through Sunday, January 2 Danville Science Center

At the visiting exhibition, The Healer Within, discover how the mind and body work together to keep you healthy. Learn about the body’s self-repair systems and how they can be used to cultivate good health. Try a biofeedback device to understand how thoughts and moods can affect your body. Create your own electronic music to relax or inspire yourself.

Examine and align your posture, build a skeleton, and become a white blood cell to search for and eliminate threats to the body.

Also, visit Genomics eXplorer and examine Earth’s most crucial living creatures, plants, and investigate important contributions that plant scientists are making to agriculture, human health and the environment. Journey to the heart of a plant cell, learn how proteins are made, dig into the puzzles of plant genetics to solve real-world problems and explore the many roles that plants play in our lives.

Before leaving, view the photo exhibit, Mill Safety and Life Lessons. Photographer Erin Elizabeth Ganey’s personal imagery and reflections are positioned alongside historical photos from Dan River Mills safety training program.

The DSC, 677 Craghead Street, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m and on Mondays, December 20 and 27. Closed Christmas Eve. Cost for adults is $6; students/ seniors $5. For more info, call 434.791.5160.

Friday, December 3 DMFAH Candlelight Tour

Enjoy the Sutherlin Mansion aglow in all its holiday finery at 975 Main Street. This 19th century Italianate villa home will be decked in authentic Victorian-style decorations.

Refreshments will be served. Art galleries will also be open to the public. No charge.

For more information, call 434.793.5644. (submitted by Lynne Bjarnesen)

Saturday, December 4 DMFAH Christmas at Janie’s House

Join the festivities from 10 a.m. until noon at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, and discover what Christmas might have been like in 1859 for 9-year-old Janie Sutherlin in her new home, the Sutherlin Mansion. Four- to eight-year-olds will enjoy making 19th century-style ornaments, listening to storyteller Rebecca Dellinger, touring the mansion with a period-attired guide, and tasting refreshments. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Fee is $5 per child. Advanced reservations are recommended. Call 434-793-5644. (submitted by Lynne Bjarnesen)

Saturday, December 4 Averett U & the Danville Concert Association

Pianists Elena Martin and Jose Meliton have been described as musicians of the highest caliber who set the audience on fire.

The Spanish duo-pianists play in perfect synchronization and have performed around the world. They both hold the Titulo Superior de Piano from the Real Conservatoria Superior de Musica de Madrid and master’s degrees from UNC at Greensboro.

December 6-20 Danville Public Library Food for Fines

Take library items to their home for the holidays.

Bring two canned food items for people or food for cats or dogs when you return your late library materials, and your fines will be waived. Library materials must be in good condition when they are returned in order for fines to be forgiven.

For more information, visit 511 Patton Street or call 434.799.5195 ext. 225. Donations will be given to God’s Store House and the Danville Humane Society. (submitted by Joann Verostko)

Wednesday, December 8 Caswell County Civic Center

‘Twas the Night before Christmas, a hilarious musical from Theatre IV, introduces Santa in a whole new light. Inspired by the poem A Visit from St. Nicholas and the real life of its author, Clement Moore, this classic is suitable for kindergarten through fifth grades. Performances are at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For more information, phone 336.694.4591 and visit www.ccfta.org. CCCC is located at the intersection of NC 62 & US 158.

Thursday, December 9 Pittsylvania County Public Library

Pittsylvania County, Virginia: A Brief History

by Larry Aaron will be the focus of the Good Jobs, Good Work book discussion series that will start at 4:00 p.m. in the Chatham Railway Depot on Whitehead Street, just off Depot Street (Highway 57) in Chatham. Aaron, a local historian, guides the reader through Pittsylvania County's remarkable history. For more information, call 434-432-3271 or email info@pcplib.org (submitted by Diane S. Adkins, Director)

Saturday, December 11 YWCA/Alzheimer’s Association/ DHS/Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade

Starting at 1 p.m., the YW at 750 Main Street in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association will sell ornaments for $5, which will be hung on their tree in memory of loved ones. The YW labyrinth will also be open as part of the Danville Historical Society’s 38th Annual Holiday Tour from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. During the Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade, hot chocolate will be sold starting at 6 pm. The theme of the 2010 parade is Community Christmas Spirit and will begin at the corner of Ridge and Main Streets.

Saturday, December 18 Danville Symphony Orchestra

It’s time for mistletoe and holly and the remembrance of happy times as the 60-member Danville Symphony Orchestra presents Home for the Holidays. From the dreamy mood of White Christmas to the excitement of the cracking whip and neighing horse in Sleigh Ride, the musical pieces are sure to lift the spirit and bring joyful smiles.

Orchestra Director, Dr. Jonathan Green, notes that this year’s Christmas concert features a mixture of classical and popular seasonal favorites. In addition to Lucien Caillet’s beloved orchestration of J.S. Bach’s Sheep May Safely Graze and Ralph Vaughan Williams’s sublime Fantasia on Greensleeves, the DSO will present a wide range of perennial holiday hits.

The audience will be treated to classic pops arrangements of Walter Kent’s I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, and medleys of popular carols by John Cacavas and Clifton Williams as well as long-time Boston Pops arranger, Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride and Christmas Festival.

While the concert is always free to the public, the DSO will continue its tradition of asking the audience to bring 2 items of canned food for God’s Store House. Cash donations are also accepted. In past years, the contributions have been very generous with nearly a ton of food being contributed each year by cheerful givers. The concert begins at 8 p.m. in the George Washington High School Auditorium, 701 Broad Street. For more information, visit www.danvillesymphony.net. (Submitted by Mary Franklin.)

Friday, January 14 Danville Science Center Corks & Forks

This tasty annual fund-raiser will be held from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, fine wines and specialty beers are the fare for a relaxed evening of culinary delights. Attire is dressy casual. Proceeds benefit the education programs at the DHS. Tickets are $40. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more info, call 434.791.5160 ext. 205

Evince Magazine

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December 2010