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Bob Jiranek

Playing Polo in Danville Page 3

October 2014

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

Page 2

Editor’s Note

When was the last time you attended a polo game in Danville? For 99% of our readers, the answer is probably, “Never.” That’s about to change. Bob Jiranek, who is pictured on the cover with his polo ponies, is bringing a polo exhibition game to Danville this month. Read page 3 about this ambitious person and his latest project, the Dan River Polo Club.

Someone else who has an unflagging enthusiasm for a cause is Lestar Martin, a Louisiana resident with artistic talent, who followed his passion for sketching and created a community keepsake. See page 6.

These two men personify zeal—the tireless fervor for an endeavor or idea. We are fortunate to know many others who fit that description. Read Reformed Slacker Finds Her Zeal on page 9 about Stephanie Ferrugia’s latest venture into fitness. AU students are praised for their zeal in Linda Lemery’s column on page 24. The married duo of Hill and Oldham have abundant zeal, but for different things. Read She Said, He Said on page 4 to see how they are coping. Of course, all Evince writers are passionate about this magazine and its contribution to the area. For that, we are truly grateful.

As the days grow cooler and evenings come earlier, there is a promise of a new season in the air. Follow Annelle Williams’ advice on page 25 and Welcome Fall with Zeal by cooking a new dish for dinner or finding something that invigorates you to become a more zealous person.

Sincerely,

Credits: Hair: Amber Wilson; Skin Care & Makeup: Catherine Saunders; Nails: Janelle Gammon; Genesis Day Spa & Salon, 695 Park Avenue, Danville

October Contents

2

Editor’s Note

3

Bob Jiranek Playing Polo in Danville

by Joyce Wilburn

4

6

THE

OICE OF ZEAL

CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks President Director of Sales & Marketing Larry Oldham (434.728.3713) larry@evincemagazine.com

She Said He Said No! Not Football Again

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham Lestar Martin Sketching Chatham’s Steeples & Styles of Chatham

by Sarah Jones

7

The Voice of Readers

9

Reformed Slacker Finds Her Zeal

by Stephanie Ferrugia

Editor Joyce Wilburn (434.799.3160) joycewilburn@gmail.com Associate Editors Larry G. Aaron (434.792.8695) larry.aaron@gmail.com Jeanette Taylor Contributing Writers

10 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Celeste Lynn

Diane Adkins, Russell Carter, Kim Clifton, Patsi Compton, Stephanie Ferrugia, Mary Franklin, Janelle Gammon, Dena Hill, Emily Holder, Sarah Jones, Telisha Moore Leigg, Celeste Lynn, Linda Lemery, Jerry Meadors, Larry Oldham, Michael Parsons, Susan Paynter, Janina Shoemaker, Melanie Vaughan, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams

11 Second Thoughts / Go West Young Man

by Kim Clifton 13 This Old Man / Fiction

by Telisha Moore Leigg

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

14 Calendar Clips 18 Calendar

Marketing Consultants Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net

20 Life Rising from the Rubble

by Mack Williams

Lee Vogler (434.548.5335) lee@showcasemagazine.com

22 Book Clubbing / The Long Way Home by Louise Penny a review by Diane Adkins

Art & Production Director Demont Design (Kim Demont)

16 Where Can I Find an Evince?

evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW

23 What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania County Public Libraries 24 Reflecting Forward / The Voice of Zeal

by Linda Lemery

Deadline for submission of November stories, articles, ads, and calendar clips is Monday, October 20, at 5 p.m.

Submit stories and articles to: joycewilburn@gmail.com.

Submit calendar items by Sunday, October 12, at 5 p.m. to www.showcasemagazine.com for Evince and Showcase.

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

25 Around the Table / Welcome Fall with Zeal

by Annelle Williams 26 Photo Finish

On the Cover:

Photo of Bob Jiranek by Michelle Dalton Photography

Don’t Forget to Pick Up the October Edition of Showcase Magazine

Editorial Policies:

Meet Some of Our Contributors

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.

EVINCE MAGAZINE 753 Main St. Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541 www.evincemagazine.com © 2014 All rights reserved.

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

Emily Holder serves as an independent consultant for the Danville-Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity.

Janelle Gammon is a licensed nail technician certified in diabetic foot care at Genesis Day Spa & Salon and a licensed reflexologist. She is the organizer of the Fall Vendor Blender.

See page 14.

Janina Shoemaker, Executive Director of Gretna Little Theatre, reports that the Theatre is about to enter its eighth season.

She thinks that’s pretty good for a small town with one traffic light!

See page 14.

Michael Parsons is the Executive Director of the Danville Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity.

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

For Subscriptions, call 1.877.638.8685 ext. 6.

Evince Magazine

Page 3

Bob Jiranek

Playing Polo in Danville

by Joyce Wilburn

cage encasing a wooden horse where riders can test their hitting skills in a safe environment.

Over $300,000 has been invested in the development of the Equs grounds and buildings that are home to three polo ponies. The thoroughbreds are called ponies, but that is in reference to their agility rather than size. For competition, their manes are cut short and tails are braided so their hair won’t become tangled in the mallets.

Joe Milam and Bob Jiranek lead the polo ponies back to the field. Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography.

H

e’s gradually learning to ride horses and thinks they are scary, yet Bob Jiranek is bringing the first ever polo match to Danville, when Virginia Tech vs. the University of Virginia on October 18. The Michigan native, who grew up in Scarsdale, New York, and has been a Danville resident for 50 years, is also the founder of the Dan River Polo Club.

“Most people in this area associate polo with the logo on their shirts,” he says with a laugh, referring to the famous Ralph Lauren symbol. Changing that mindset began nine years ago, when Joe Milam, Neal Morris, Jerry Williams and Bob founded Equs, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing area youth with a competitive sport that could lead them to college. “No one will become a professional polo player,” he hastens to add, “but

they will learn to be confident, assertive, disciplined, responsible team players. Colleges look for those qualities among their applicants.” In the future, Equs (from the Latin Equus meaning horse) would like to have a twoyear certificate program for aspiring grooms. “Grooms look after the everyday needs of horses and make sure they are healthy,” says Bob. “Achieving this long term goal would provide jobs and careers for people. We’re trying to find the key to improving the economy of the area.”

An immediate goal for Equs is to recruit males and females ages 10 and older to join the Dan River Polo Club and attend regular meetings. “The first year is free for students 19 and younger and includes membership in the U.S. Polo Association,” Bob continues and quickly adds, “and a T-shirt.”

After attending meetings, anyone who wants to learn to ride will be

put into classes. Equs will assume as much of the cost as possible, but tuition will be charged if a student can pay.

Prospective DRP Club members, their families, and the community are invited to the mid-October four-chukker match scheduled on the 150 ft. x 300 ft. Chips Chester Arena Polo Field located on a 50-acre farm adjacent to the Danville Golf Club. “Chips was a friend from college who donated the funds to create the field,” says the 1952 Princeton graduate who earned a degree in philosophy.

Bob’s roommate at Princeton, John S. Schmid, gave the money to build the polo pony barn, which looks different from a traditional barn.

“Polo ponies only come into the barn if they are sick or if they need to be groomed. Otherwise, they stay in the field,” he explains. The open-air barn also has a meeting room, bathroom, and a storage room. Nearby is the practice polo

Showing visitors the ponies and the Equs campus, Bob beams with pride. “This is not recreational riding. This is character building,” he says. It’s probably something the novice horseman tells himself every time he mounts a horse.

• Equs (pronounced ek-was ), 346 Mimosa Street, will be open for visitors on Saturday, October 18, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. The VT vs. UVA match will begin at 3:00 p.m.

A polo match lasts about 1 1⁄2 hours and is divided into timed periods called chukkers. A chukker last for seven minutes.

This is a four-chukker event with breaks.

• Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on the grassy hill overlooking the arena. Picnic lunches are allowed.

• Episcopal Church of the Epiphany Boy Scout Troop 452 will sell concessions. They also have advance tickets.

• Tickets are free. A $10 taxdeductible donation to Equs, Inc. is suggested but not required. Call 434.250.3691 for more information.

• For information about the U.S. Polo Association, visit www.uspolo.org.

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October 2014

SHE SAID

because you know I love you and like being married to you, but honestly, can’t a girl have some time alone just once in a while?

by Dena Hill

Oh, No! Not Football Again Yippee! The coming of fall means football games from now until January or February. Most men bet on the games, scramble for tickets, wear hats and shirts emblazoned with the logos and names of their favorite teams, frequent bars and sit with the other fellows just to scream at the TV, knowing full well that the players can’t hear them.

HE SAID

by Larry Oldham If I were a regular guy, this would probably make me mad. Because I can rise to the occasion and look at your statement objectively, I agree with you 100%. Our only disagreement might be that I am probably not going to become interested in football as you have suggested. It doesn’t make me any more of a man to like football, than my asking you to be a fashion model makes you more of a woman.

She said

Do you think you’re doing me a favor by not participating?

You think you’re a man’s man and yet you would rather go shopping than go to a football game. Most men I know talk incessantly I do believe I about the could give you game and who some more is going to alone time, if win. Is there that is what something you really wrong with need. Let me you that you create a list of don’t fit that things I can mold? The do to give you funny thing is more time. that when you Wait! I have go to a game, an idea. I can your eyes are Photo by go to Hooters glued to the Michelle Dalton Photography. more often. field and I can’t You need drag you away some silence and I need more ...well I or even talk during the plays. It must don’t know, I guess better food. I can be that because you’re left-handed, go shopping too.

I always like to shop you have a one-track mind. Yet, so instead of shopping for an hour, you don’t become excited about the I can go on a marathon shopping Super Bowl, the World Series, or even spree. Of course, that means I will have a favorite driver on the NASCAR bring home more junk. (That gives circuit. You don’t follow golf or tennis you more things to complain about on television; all you want to do is and to clean and organize during shop. your me time.) I can visit my mother more often, but then the more I visit, My reason for bringing this to your the more she would want me to visit attention is because if you went to and I would end up spending more an occasional game, it would mean time with her than with you. (Then that you would leave the house you would fuss about being alone once in a while. Because you don’t, too much.) I could start putting that means you are always here. I Halloween decorations all over the am constantly having to wait on you yard, but you wouldn’t want that and you are always underfoot. Now either. I can’t win. I think it will just be don’t be upset because I’m telling the better if I hang around the house and truth. Sometimes the truth has to be you can just pretend I’m not there. Oh spoken to accomplish anything. Right wait, you do that now. now I would like to have a little more me time to do my own thing without I will be in my room watching the your following me from room to room cheerleaders...I mean football. talking about something that doesn’t interest me. Don’t take this wrong

He Said

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

Evince Magazine

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October 2014

Lestar Martin Sketching the Steeples & Styles of Chatham

by Sarah Jones

“We’ve lost something in American culture, but it still exists in Chatham, Virginia,” says Lestar Martin, a retired architect, specializing in historic preservation.

He and his wife, Sally, moved temporarily to Chatham in order to spend time with their daughter and grandchildren.

When Lestar took walks around Chatham, he was inspired to sketch the steeples of the town. “A sinner doesn’t have a chance in Chatham,” he jokes, referring to the multitude of local churches. When he ran out of steeples to draw, he noticed something else about the town, something he says is very unusual.

The houses of Chatham are built in seven different architectural styles that span 200 years of history.

Furthermore, he has discovered that every porch in the town is different--and he would know, having taught architecture for 26 years at Louisiana Tech.

Walking around the town drawing detailed sketches attracted attention, of course, and soon Lestar was asked to join Chatham First, an organization dedicated to the beautification and improvement of Chatham. Every year, the group sells a calendar that highlights a unique feature of Chatham. Last year, the theme was Barns Near Chatham. This year, Martin’s sketches will be featured in a calendar titled, The Steeples and Styles of Chatham, Virginia.

“Lestar is a godsend, come out of the blue. We appreciate his contributions to a town he doesn’t even live in (full-time),” says John Collins, an admirer

and friend who works for Chatham First. After pausing for a minute, John continues, “We’ve been so excited since he walked in with his pictures. This is a treasure trove of the architectural history of Chatham that this man is giving us.” Along with the calendar, which will feature artworks depicting both the steeples and the architectural styles of houses found in Chatham, the organization is also publishing a visual history book called On the Front Porch. It includes more sketches and details about the special architecture to be discovered in Chatham.

Artist Lestar Martin has found something very special in Chatham and he’s making sure it is remembered every month of the year.

• The calendar and the book will be available on Saturday, October 4, at Chatham First’s booth in the Callands Festival on Sago Road.

Also, shoppers can choose a sketch from several options that will be on display and order note cards featuring the chosen artwork. All proceeds will benefit the beautification projects of Chatham First.

• The calendars and books will be available in Chatham at: ChathaMooCa, 33 North Main Street; M & W Flower Shop, 20 North Main Street; and Commonwealth Pharmacy, 21 South Main Street. In Danville, shop at the Visitors Center, 645 River Park Drive or Karen’s Hallmark in Danville Mall.

• For more information call 434.548.2052.

Evince Magazine

The Voice of Readers Popular writer, Kim Clifton, received a thoughtful letter from a faithful reader. Here are some excerpts:.

Dear Kim: You don’t know me, but I’m a retired teacher from Tunstall High School. I am Vivian Giles’ daughter and I knew your mother and father-in-law from Shelton Memorial Presbyterian Church....

The reason I’m writing is to tell you how much I enjoy your articles in Evince. I look forward to reading “Second Thoughts” each month and honestly, your article is usually the only one I read. The one I just read in the September issue (That’s What I’m Talking ‘Bout page 11) is my favorite and I’m guilty of saying many of the sayings you mention.

My youngest daughter married a man from the state of Maine and we still have problems understanding each other. He talks too fast and I speak Southern. I love to laugh and have fun.

Hope I didn’t take too much of your time by letting you know how much I look forward to reading “Second Thoughts.” Bless your heart!

Judy Robertson We love Kim’s stories also. She’s a hard worker and deserves the praise.

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Letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number.

Letters may be edited for space or style. Submission constitutes permission to use.

Tell us what you think.

Email your comments to joycewilburn@gmail.com or send mail to Evince Editor, 753 Main Sreet, Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541.

To read past issues of Evince, visit www.evincemagazine.com.

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October 2014

Evince Magazine I have never considered myself much of an enthusiastic exerciser.

I was a big slacker in physical education classes, half-heartedly played tennis in high school and did everything possible to avoid health and P.E. classes in college.

However, my first semester at the University of Georgia, I befriended an avid runner and she talked me into striking a trot with her one evening in the middle of July.

Mid-summer heat in Georgia is no joke, and I thought I’d surely lost my ever-loving mind. But, over time, I began to enjoy it and have been a steady jogger ever since. I am not competitive about it at all, and by real runners’ accounts, I am slow as a turtle with an 11 minute per mile pace. For me, however, it’s about turning on my tunes, zoning out and getting in a decent workout that I enjoy. That’s been good enough for me for nearly two decades.

It’s probably starting to sound absurd that the P.E. dropout now works for a health and wellness organization like Get Fit, but, the story doesn’t stop there. In fact, it’s just getting started.

While I continue jogging my 11-minute mile, I have also learned that much like eating good

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the river and practicing crazy body contortions in a Pilates class. And, guess what? Somewhere along the way I found my new exercise zeal. The answer is in the above photo, and it surprised me more than anyone because I’m pretty high strung and sitting still does not come natural to me. But this exercise is like going to the spa while getting one of the best workouts I have ever had. My friend and colleague, Tadashi Totten, confirms this exercise isn’t for sissies! Stay healthy and fit, and try something new, Dan River Region!

The Get Fit staff and others enjoy the new yoga studio in the Pemberton Lofts, 541 Bridge Street. Photo by Von Wellington

Reformed Slacker Finds Her Zeal

by Stephanie Ferrugia Program Director, Get Fit Dan River Region food, physical activity is supposed to be pleasurable. Hate your workout routine or having a hard time even getting started? It’s no different than healthy eating-- it doesn’t have to be mundane and blah.

In the last several weeks, I have had the privilege of knocking the heck out of a punching bag at a mixed martial arts (MMA) class, doing warm and hot yoga, paddling it out kayaking

Join the Get Fit Team at Fit Stops on Wednesdays: • 10/1: Burke’s Outlet, 135 Collins Drive, Danville • 10/8: Get Fit office, 308 Craghead Street, Danville • 10/15: Cherrystone Missionary Baptist Association, 5551 Tom Fork Rd, Ringgold • 10/22: Caswell Family Medical Center, 439 U.S. 158, Yanceyville, North Carolina • 10/29: Chick-Fil-A, 3535 Riverside Drive, Danville For more information, call 434.770.9138 or visit www.getfitdanriver.org.

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October 2014 To encourage exceptional customer service, the Business Development 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 joycewilburn@gmail.com or visit www.dpchamber.org; under Business Development, and click Customer Service Award Nomination.

by Celeste Lynn

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

I would like to nominate Kirby Alexander Richmond, a server at International House of Pancakes, 101 Teal Court, for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award. Kirby is a wonderful person who greets each and every customer with a smile.

One particular afternoon, I decided to eat at IHOP; it was one of those days where it seems as if everything was going wrong. Unfortunately, my order got mixed up and when the food arrived, it was totally wrong. Already not feeling my best this added more pressure to my current situation. Kirby was very understanding and apologetic throughout the whole ordeal. He immediately took my food, placed a new order and made sure that my food was freshly made and the order was correct. I immensely enjoyed his jokes that brought me to laughing tears. Before it was all over, I was able to forget my horrible day and enjoy my food. I came into IHOP one way and left feeling much better.

Thank you Kirby for exceptional customer service!

PAINT THE TOWN BLUE AND GOLD! There’s something new on Main Street – Averett’s Homecoming Banners!

Yes, Homecoming is just around the corner at your Hometown University. We have an awesome lineup of events for all Averett alumni, and all of Danville, so make plans to join us.

This year marks Averett’s 156th year. For more than a century, Averett has represented excellence in education in the Commonwealth. We invite all of our friends – old and new – to come celebrate during Averett’s Hometown Party Friday, Oct. 17 at the Community Market. For $25 per person, tickets include steak dinner, beer/wine, and the great music of The Pizzaz Band. It will be a rocking good time, and tickets are limited, so get them early. Call the alumni office at 434-7915676 for tickets, visit the Schoolfield House Booksellers on West Main Street, or you can register online at www.averett.edu/homecoming.

Saturday, Oct. 18 is our first night FOOTBALL game under the lights. Come out and cheer our Cougars to victory against Christopher Newport at 6 p.m. at the North Campus on the new Daly Field. Come after 2:00 pm and tailgate. There will be various events for adults and children. Please bring a canned good for God’s Storehouse. We will honor award recipients at halftime and crown our Homecoming King and Queen.

See our full Homecoming schedule at www.averett.edu/homecoming.

Averett is hosting a Job Fair for our seniors. If you have openings or want to talk about what skill sets you need, or help our students practice interviewing, please come out Friday, Oct. 17 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the Multipurpose Room of the Student Center. Contact Petrina Carter to register at 791-5629.

Come out and show your Averett spirit by wearing blue and gold at Homecoming 2014.

Evince Magazine I can’t prove it, but I just know there’s a Husbands’ Book of World Records, Myrtle Beach Edition, that is forbidden to be shared with spouses. It would clarify why men always compare travel times in conversations like this: “Yeah, that new bypass is a sucker route.”

“Might as well still come in by Conway ‘cause traffic’s gonna be bumper-tobumper.” “Coulda found a way to get here in three and a half hours if she hadn’t made me pull over for peaches.”

Apparently stopping doesn’t disqualify you for the record-setting title, but it does explain why a wife’s bladder must wait to be emptied...only after the gas tank has been.

But, back to my opening statement asking, “Do we go east or west?” Thats was all just wasted breath. I had no idea which way to tell him. I’m not a compass. All I know about that stuff is I’m from the South and we lost to the North.

Second Thoughts

by Kim Clifton ©2014

Go West Young Man “Do we go east or west? East or west? Kim, east or west?” my husband repeatedly asked me. It wasn’t that I didn’t understand the question. It was that I didn’t know the answer. I miss the days when men refused to ask for directions. Maybe we did waste time driving in circles, but at least it didn’t open a Pandora’s box of problems. As always, I’m getting ahead of myself.

When I was growing up, paper maps were all we used to get from Point A to Point B. Printed by Rand McNally, they were the quintessential navigational gospels and expanded much like an accordion. The roads were illustrated with red and blue squiggly lines making it seem as if cities were connected by varicose veins. Reading one wasn’t the biggest challenge. Refolding it was.

It was easier to put toothpaste back in a tube. It used to be that if you drove from state to state, you didn’t stop at a gas station for a new map until

you’d driven to the end of the old one.

Besides, since you needed the whole dashboard to spread the thing out, there wouldn’t be room for another one anyway.

Typically, or at least in my family, the man did the driving and the woman read the map. It was a fairly decent system for my father since he only had to steer and smoke. It was no Sunday drive for my mother. She had to co-pilot and co-parent, tending to both tolls and tattletales. She kept one eye on the map to make sure my dad crossed state lines and the other one over her shoulder to keep her feuding daughters from crossing imaginary ones. That was before digital navigation. The invention of Tom-Toms, Garmins and Google changed what happens when a man gets behind the wheel. The purpose of these gadgets isn’t about how to get somewhere. It’s about how to get somewhere...the fastest.

Mapping travel has changed although men still don’t ask live people for help...unless it’s a clueless wife like me. They can ask any number of machines to spout out all kinds of navigational information, including cardinal directions and other facts

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that aren’t necessary. I really don’t think we have to know the latitude and longitude to a hotel. I just need to know which room has the free breakfasts.

My husband and I love to travel, but if we forget the Tom-Tom, getting there isn’t half the fun like the old saying promises. Most times we disagree on the best route. Most times we end up not speaking. Most times I have to admit that he was right, but if he gloats about it, he’s going to get left.

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October 2014

Evince Magazine good will get you what you need, some comfort. Here some money. I’m going to live with my sister in Trenton. Ralph, ya fatha, didn’t leave much....just this place and I ...I gotta sell it to make it....”

Mama’s stepmother never looked at me. She murmured to herself, touching her throat, “So much sad around...”

The old man, his dark blue eyes wide and fading, tightened and curled his fingers in those fists. “...Okay,” Mama said, swallowing, and we left that night, in the neon-signed dark, with people in the shadows chasing us back down into the subway with their eyes, chasing us back home to country. A few weeks and we had spent that money and what little else we had saved on TV dinners and payby-the-week motel rooms.

This Old Man

W

fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

hen I was six, my mother— born late and only child of Ralph and (long deceased) Rachel Betlen-took me to her father’s funeral in the not good part of, but not completely bad part of, some big city. I think it was D.C. or New York, Philly maybe.

Mama was on a mission and never asked the way to go once we got there; it was like she already knew all she needed, like we were on a journey that despite her sadness at losing her father couldn’t end in anything but jubilation. I remember being surprised because I always thought we were from the country, from big spaces and green grass like blankets, from the places where pine needles in the fall hurt your feet if you still went barefoot.

a knee as he rocked back and forth toward me then away. His eyes were dark. Outside the window, cottoncandy clouds were ready to storm.

I remember looking up, up, up at the buildings like fat metal trees.

It was raining as we came up from the subway station to the city streets and I remember the smell of burnt steam and hot dog relish, noise like millions of spoons falling from the hand into something hard and cold, the whoosh tires made as they splashed the rainbows from the curb puddles. It was March and windy.

Mama gripped my light brown hand tighter and wiped wind-strewn strands of blonde hair from her lips. This funeral, his funeral, was before we were homeless, and I remember just wanting to go home, back when we had a home to go to.

His fingers, thick twigs with the knots and ridges where the joints met gnarled like rocks. Slowly he moved to have just one finger crooked to call; I didn’t go to him, but neither did I turn away.

The old man in the corner looked at me. He sat in front of the window in a straight back black chair, in a black suit without a tie, shirt buttoned to the collar, with each fisted hand on

“You can’t stay. I ain’t got the room, either,” the old, slender woman said, a day or two after the burial. She was getting a glass of water from the tap and her hands trembled. Mama said she had palsy, but didn’t want any pity. Her back was to us both, her worn bedroom slippers wedged toward the kitchen sink. I could see her ankles from the living/dining area where we sat. It was a small apartment full of books, so many books, newspapers stacked, an old, thin-bone cat with grey-gold eyes that you couldn’t pet, and embroidery yellowing in heavy wooden frames.

“But Penny, surely Papa would let...,” my mama worked up to ask, fire in her cheeks. “...A few days to get things right...no more...,” my mama’s stepmother said.

“Penny,” Mama called after, “...we got nowhere to...”

“Rosie,” Mama’s stepmama wiped her hand on the red rooster dish towel, her eyes looked through the kitchen window into the brick wall of the next apartment building. “We aren’t all here to do big, great things; sometimes the little good is okay and medium

Nine years later, I’m fifteen. And we are still adrift, homeless. Tonight, Mama is sentimental and sad on a rainy Sunday night. She calls me to her. I’m ready even before Mama reaches in the duffel bag, past her “Dynasty” tapes and her brass knuckles she keeps buried in her best pair of underwear. This is when Mama shows again: our family album, the few pictures, a letter behind the plastic and cardboard page, and an

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obituary for Penny Betlen in ’08.

Then there was the picture of my grandfather when he was young and just out of service. The young man I see does not look like the old man by the window, but they are the same. And I know him by his eyes, his fists, the left quirk of lips that seem quiet more often than not. Moreover, I know him by his regret. His open door and a broken dove wing’s smile. I know, I just know, we are his sadness, the old man in the corner whose spirit couldn’t figure out how to get out of that old apartment in D.C., or Philly, or New York, or heaven or hell, who couldn’t figure out how to tell me nothing to save us.

Mama keeps turning scrapbook album pages, under the night light that supposed to be out at ten, desperation of the past colliding with the now.

When I was six, my mother took me to her father’s funeral like we were on a journey, and I remember the street, and just vaguely that funeral before we became homeless. But most of all, I remember the hands of a man in the corner I never met.

I remember him opening those old fingers. Yeah, I remember him opening them...and there being nothing, absolutely nothing, inside.

Page 14

October 2014

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18.

Friday, October 10

Romantic Music in Chatham

Kicking off the Chatham Concert Series’ seventh season, the Rainier Trio will play “Romantic Music and More.” Kevin Matheson on violin, Bryan Matheson on viola, and Brenda Wittwer on piano will be playing masterworks by Mozart, Schumann, Glinka and Mendelssohn. The Rainier Trio is also celebrating its seventh year as an ensemble and will be releasing its new CD at this concert that begins at 7:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 66 North Main Street, Chatham. Admission is by donation for the artists. For more information contact kstrings1@hotmail.com (submitted by Susan Paynter)

Saturday, October 11

Imagine Children’s Festival

This Danville Parks and Recreation’s event presented by URW Community Federal Credit Union will include a mobile zip line zone, the Kenya Safari Acrobat Show, agriculture displays and a rock climbing wall. Returning favorites are: The Global Cardboard Challenge, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries presentation, remote-controlled race cars, Danville Braves Speed Pitch, Marlo the Magician, educational displays, community agencies and more. Admission is free. Food concessions will be available for purchase. The festival from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. will be held at the Carrington Pavilion, 629 Craghead Street. For more information, call 434.793.4636. (submitted by Russell Carter)

Tuesday, October 14

To Supplement or Not to Supplement: when supplements can help and when they can cause harm

Have you been taking herbal supplements for years? fish oil? calcium? others? O. Renee Hughes, BSPharm, Clinical/Staff Pharmacist with DRMC, will address commonly used herbal/vitamin supplements, potential side effects and drug interactions. This interactive and informative program from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. will be held at Ballou Recreation Center, (lower level), corner of West Main Street and Park Ave. The program is part of the popular free Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit Series for those concerned with cancer prevention and survivorship. It is open to the entire community and is brought to the Dan River Region by the Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia/Danville in partnership with Danville Parks & Recreation. The Research and Resource Center is funded by VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Virginia Tobacco Commission. Bring your lunch and a friend. Drinks and dessert are provided.

Boxed lunches can be ordered in advance for $6.00. For a reservation, call 434.421.3060 or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

Saturday, October 18

Fall Vendor Blender

From 10 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. visit with over 40 local vendors displaying handmade crafts, home-baked goods, food, music, and a silent auction at Central Boulevard Church of God, 235 Hairston Street, behind Stratford Conference Center. Bring your early model car for a Cruise-In. Volunteers will provide information about available community resources. There will be a grand prize drawing courtesy of Ben David Jewelers. This annual fundraiser to benefit local charities is sponsored by Cheveux Salon, Auto Villa, ERA Holley & Gibson Realty Co., Piedmont Credit Union, Todd Breaux-State Farm, Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, Two Sisters’ Treasures, and Wireless Zone-Verizon Wireless. For more information, call 434.836.3622. (submitted

by Janelle Gammon)

Saturday, October 18

Build a Better World Disc Golf Tournament

Proceeds from this fourth annual event will Kenneth Tyb urski support Danville Pittsylvania County Habitat shows his for Humanity’s home building program. winning form .

Share the course with Ken Tyburski, who placed first in his division at the 2014 Professional Disc Golf Association Amateur Masters World Championship. There will be two rounds of play. The first round will be a captain’s choice team competition. Golfers will be grouped into teams by skill level or an entire team of four may register. After 18 holes, there will be a quick lunch break followed by an optional individual round of play to see who is the best of the best. Players may throw from white or blue tees. Each tee will be a separate competition. Register at www. piedmontcu.org/discgolf. The first 20 tournament entrants will receive a free disc. For more information, call 434.793.3630. (submitted by Michael Parsons)

Wednesday, October 22

Building Hope Breakfast

Danville-Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity will host this annual fundraiser at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, 150 Slayton Avenue.

Habitat for Humanity opens doors for lowincome families, who are dedicated to improving their family’s lives by purchasing affordable homes.

A complimentary breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. and the program will end at 8:30 a.m. RSVP to info@danvillehabitat.org by October 16th. For more information, call 434.793.3630 or visi www.danvillehabitat.org. (submitted by Emily Holder)

Friday, October 24- Sunday, October 26

Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner

The Gretna Little Theatre will present this comedy at the Gretna Movie Theatre, 107 Main Street. Three women have lived together in the family homestead since becoming widows. They have idiosyncrasies. “These three sisters share that most cherished trait of a close family – they can sense each other’s thoughts and feelings. ... when they do speak, they very often all talk at the SuEllen same time, sounding like Stra th ree siste cke, Emily Carv a gang of magpies.” Their Corner a rs in Those Craz att, and Jennifer nd Dan T y family friend and doctor G aylour is Ladies in the H reer are the ou their fam has a new nurse who needs ily docto se on the r. an inexpensive place to live. If she comes to live in their spare room, they will have a helper to care for them and prevent the son from moving them into assisted living so he can sell the house. The Theater is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association of Central & Western Virginia on this production to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Tickets are $10 for adults; $8 for students, seniors and military.

For more information, call 434.656.3637. (submitted by Janina Shoemaker)

Friday, October 24

Danville Symphony Orchestra Concert

The DSO starts its season with a joint, dramatic classical concert, Witches and Goblins. Under the direction of Peter Perret, the Greensboro Philharmonia will join the DSO to present Modeste Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, Franz Liszt’s Totentanz featuring piano soloist, Dr. Dmitri Shteinberg (photo right), and Symphonie Fantastique composed by Hector Berlioz.

The featured pianist, Dmitri Shteinberg, is on the faculty of the North Carolina School for the Arts. Born in Moscow, Shteinberg’s early studies were in Russia. He holds a doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music and before joining NCSA, Dr. Shteinberg served as a coordinator of piano studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. He is also on

Evince Magazine the faculty at the Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival in Burlington, Vermont. Dr. Shteinberg is a prizewinner in 20 competitions worldwide, including the first prize in international piano competition in Italy. In the United States, he won the Naomi Foundation Competition and the Artists International Debut Award and received the Salon De Virtuosi Fellowship Grant.

Note: this is a Friday night free concert beginning at 8:00 p.m. in the George Washington High School Auditorium, 701 Broad Street. For more information, visit www.danvillesymphony.net. (submitted by Mary Franklin)

Saturday, October 25

A New Mosaic: African American Art

This exhibition from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts features photographic reproductions of works

by African American artists spanning almost 200 years. Among the 11 artists represented is Thomas Day, the master furniture maker and craftsman from Milton, North Carolina. This opening reception from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at 975 Main Street is free to the public.

For more information, call 434.793.5644 and visit www.danvillemuseum.org. (submitted by Patsi Compton)

Wednesday, October 29 - Saturday, November 1 Historical Halloween

The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, presents a chilling tour through the final resting place of Danville’s earliest citizens, Grove Street Cemetery, where their ghosts will tell you their haunting tales. Grove Street Cemetery was established in 1830 and many of the town’s founders and prominent citizens were laid to rest there. Mayors, merchants, confederate soldiers, and even a bank robber are just some of the souls who will rise to speak their stories. Tour takers start at the DMFAH and then walk to Grove Street Cemetery. Tours run every half hour, starting at 6:30 p.m. (2:30 p.m. on Saturday) and the last tour begins at 8:00 p.m. (4:00 p.m. on Saturday). Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Lighting will be provided but bring a small flashlight if you wish. For more information, call 793.5644. (submitted by Jerry Meadors)

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Page 16

October 2014

Where Can I Find an Evince?

Ten thousand copies of Evince are distributed each month at over 100 locations. Find your copy at:

Riverside Drive/Piedmont Drive/Marketplace Area: Buffalo Wild Wings Checkered Pig Danview Restaurant on Danview Drive El Vallarta on Westover Drive Goodwill on Westover Drive Hibachi Grill on Executive Court Joe & Mimma’s Karen’s Hallmark @ Piedmont Mall Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s Shorty’s Bakery @ Coleman Marketplace The Highlander URW Credit Union Western Sizzlin

Main Street/Downtown/ Tobacco Warehouse Area

American National Bank Comcast on Patton Street Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History Danville Public Library on Patton Street Danville Regional Medical Center on South Main Street Danville Science Center on Craghead Street Dell’ Anno’s Pizza Kitchen on Main Street Food Lion @ Ballou Park H. W. Brown Florist (they deliver an Evince with your order) Jake’s on Main Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market on Chambers Street Rippe’s YMCA

Memorial Drive Frank’s Pizza Gingerbread House

Piney Forest Road Area

ERA Holley & Gibson Realty Co. Mary’s Diner Piedmont Credit Union

Franklin Turnpike Area Food Lion Medo’s PCP Library @ Mt. Hermon Ruben’s Too Village’s Pizza

Other

Danville Welcome Center at River Park Drive

In Chatham Area

Community Center Chatham Health Center ChathaMooCa Frank’s Pizza PCP Library on Military Drive

In South Boston, VA

Ernie’s Restaurant O Sol Mio on Bill Tuck Hwy. The Prizery 3 Women No Truck Bistro 1888 Southern Virginia Higher Education

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Crossroads Family Restaurant

In Martinsville

Elizabeth Pizza Checkered Pig China Buffett Walsh Chicken Martinsville Visitor Center The Pacifica Bay Restaurant El Ranchito

In Yanceyville, NC

Caswell County Civic Center Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store

Evince Magazine

Page 17

Page 18

October 2014

October Calendar Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row & Holbrook Street. 434.770.1974. www.danvillehistory.org.

Danville Science Center Digital Dome Theater - Open for guests to fully explore the known universe as well as some fascinating phenomena right here on Earth. The immersive dome setting showcases the scientific wonders of space, engages visitors with live astronomers, and offers large format films. Danville Science Center (DSC).

434.791.5160.

Estlow’s Trains Exhibit - John “Jack” Estlow, Jr. originally constructed this “N” Scale Train layout which was donated by his daughters and grandson so visitors can enjoy trains running in the train station. DSC. 434.791.5160.

Virginia Grown Farmers’ Market – Features fresh products produced locally within Pittsylvania, Henry, Franklin, Bedford, Campbell, & Halifax counties throughout growing season. 7:30am12pm. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex. 434.432.8026.

Pittsylvania County Public Library Events. See story page 23.

Bingo – Bring a gift to exchange and have blood pressure and body index checked. Location/times vary.

434.799.5216.

Tai-Chi Day Classes - Increase strength, balance, flexibility and progress at your own pace. M 11:15am-12:15pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Intro to Social Networking Computer Class – Learn how social networking can be used in daily living.

Ages 50+. M 11am-1pm. Danville Public Library (DPL). 434.799.5195.

Let’s Dance – Formerly Boogie Mondays. Learn new dances, make new friends and have loads of fun. 7-8:30pm.

Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Yoga Classes - Stress-relieving wellness class. M 11:30am-12:30pm, DPL; 5:30pm, Ballou Rec Center.

434.797.8848.

Art with Judie – Learn how to paint with acrylic, oil or watercolor.

M/TU - Times vary. Ballou Annex.

434.799.5216.

Ladies, It’s Time to Work It Out. MW 8:30-10am. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Kuumba African Dance – Live drumming and energetic dancing that helps raise cultural awareness, uplift and provides a great workout. MW 6-7:30pm.

Stonewall Youth Center. 434.797.8848.

Prime Time Fitness - Low-impact aerobics workout with a mix of various fun dance steps. MTH 9:30-11am or 5:30-7pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.797.8848.

Get Moving with Chair Exercises – Low-impact class ideal for adults 50+.

MTH 11:30am-12:30pm. Coates Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

Basic Email Computer Class – Learn the basics of email and set up an account. Practice receiving and sending as well as composing and replying to emails. Ages 50+. W 11am-1pm. DPL. 434.799.5195.

Basic Word 2010 Computer Class – Learn how to use the basic features of Microsoft Word. Prerequisite: Meet the Mouse/Keyboard or comparable knowledge of using the mouse and keyboard. Ages 50+. W 11am-1pm.

DPL. 434.799.5195.

Zumba Classes - Hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves

create a one-of-a-kind interval training fitness program with fun routines that tone and sculpt the body while burning fat. W 5:15-6pm Pepsi Building. TH 78pm. Coates Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

Art with Flo – Wet on wet technique of oil painting. Ages 18+. W 9:3011:30am, Glenwood Community Center; 6-8pm, Ballou Annex. 434.799.5216.

African Cardio Blast - A unique workout that includes dance movements from various regions of the African continent. W 6-7pm. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

African Rhythms by Nguzo Saba – Learn West African dance to live drumming. W 6-7pm. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Cardio Step Class – Up-tempo, high energy class. TTH 8:30-9:30am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Baby Boomer Style Work Out – Walking, cardio activity & weight training designed for older adults.

TTH 9-10:30am. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Senior Bingo. Ages 50+. 11am-12pm.

DPL Auditorium. 434.799.5195.

Ballou Jammers - Acoustic musical jamboree. Bring a stringed instrument or just listen. TH 3-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Ballou Book Swap - Take a book or two to read and leave a book or two to share. F 9am-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Friday Night Fun and Dance – Enjoy a night of dancing with live music by City Limits Band or Country Pride Band.

Ages 50+. F 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

October 1 (thru 12)

Before You Go a collection of photographs by Mary Courtney Blake at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History (DMFAH), 975 Main St. Every Day Studies in Black & White by Logan Koontz. Arts Fusion sponsored by the Central & Western Va. Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. 793.5644. www.danvillemuseum.org

October 1 (thru 29)

Yoga Movements and Relaxation – Veteran yoga instructor Frank Shields will lead this stress relieving wellness class. Bring yoga mat and towel.

Ages 18+. W 5:30-6:30pm. Coates Recreational Center. 434.797.8848.

October 1 (thru Jan 4)

Imagination Playground. Tap into your inner engineer. Build contraptions with giant foam blocks and tubes of every size and shape. Danville Science Center (DSC) , 677 Craghead St. 791.5160 Ocean Bound Experiment with water flow, track pollution, dive deep into the ocean in the submarine simulator. And explodre watershed science and human impact on our water. DSC 791.5160

October 1

Living on the Water – Virginia Museum of National History. Martinsville, VA. 276.634.4141.

October 2

Kayaking by Moonlight – Kayak four miles of the Dan River as nocturnal animals begin feeding along the banks. Each boat will be illuminated and headlamps will be provided. Ages 12+. 6-8:30pm. Abreu-Grogan Park.

434.799.5215.

Job Corps Information Session – Job Corps is currently recruiting

young adults for its vocational training program. Job Corps helps young adults prepare for a career, earn a high school diploma, and gain the skills needed to succeed. Vocational training is available in fields such as certified nursing, carpentry, culinary arts, auto repair, electrical, welding and more. Ages 16-24. 10:30am-12:30pm. Workforce Development. 434.455.2521.

Haven of the Dan River Region Annual Candlelight Vigil – October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Bring instruments and friends. The vigil will honor all who affected by domestic violence. Candles will be provided by the Danville Pittsylvania Academy of Medicine Alliance. Courthouse Steps/ Plaza, 401 Patton St., 5:30-7pm.

October 2 (thru 30)

You and Your Health Workshops – Danville Parks and Recreation and local organizations will offer seminars to educate, inform, and raise awareness about health and wellness issues affecting the community.

Pre-registration is required. 11am12pm. Coates Recreation Center.

434.797.8848.

October 2 (thru 16)

Krav Maga – A martial art and selfdefense system that consists of a wide combination of techniques focusing on real-world situations and efficient counter attacks. Led by Derek Wright, a veteran military instructor. Ages 18+. TH 7-9pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

October 3 (thru 24)

Friday Night Fun and Dance – Live music provided by “City Limits Band” on the first, third and fifth Friday. The “Country Pride Band” plays on the second and fourth Fridays. Ballou Recreation Center Council on Aging.

Ages 50+. F 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

October 3

DCC Educational Foundation Golf Tournament. 434.797.8495.

Clue: The Musical – The popular game is now a fun filled musical which brings the world’s best known suspects to life and invites the audience to help solve the mystery. 6:30-8:30pm. Patrick Henry Community College: Walker Theatre. Martinsville 276.638.8777x 0460.

First Friday Art Walk – Enjoy art, food, music and fun along the city’s historic streets. Over 20 galleries, restaurants and shops are open with live music and other events. 5-7pm. Uptown Martinsville. 276.638.2107.

Firehouse Fridays Angela VanFossen will help you create a work of art. 6pm9pm DMFAH, 975 Main St. 793.5644.

October 4 (thru 25)

Danville Farmers’ Market – Enjoy a cup of coffee or pick up fresh produce.

Everything you need for a fresh, locally grown meal. Danville Community Market. W 3-6pm, S 7:30am-12pm.

434.797.8961.

October 4

Artfelt Expressions of Bob Ross – Ed Gowen, certified Bob Ross instructor, will help you complete a beautiful painting in one day. Bring a roll of paper towels and a 16x20 canvas. Other supplies

October 2014 S

M

T

W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

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are included. Adults 18+. Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216.

Oktoberfest – Entertainment, delicious food, and a variety of vendors. 11am4pm. Church and Main Streets.

Martinsville.

Adoption Fair/Rabies Clinic – Animals available for adoption from Danville Area Humane Society Animal Shelter will be at Leggett Town & Country, 335 Mount Cross Road. 11am-2pm. Rabies clinic conducted by Animal Medical Center.

434.799.0843.

October 5

7th Annual Danville Area CROP Hunger Walk – The walk will feature one mile and 5K routes that will bring awareness to hunger and poverty issues in our community and around the world. Funds raised will benefit God’s Storehouse and Church World.

The Walk begins in the parking lot of Mount Vernon United Methodist Church Service. 107 West Main St. 2:30-4:30pm.

Registration at 2:30. 434.793.6824.

October 6 (thru 27)

Tai-Chi Day Classes – Increase strength, balance, flexibility, and explore your inner self. M 11:15am-12:15pm.

Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

Yoga Movements and Relaxation – Increases flexibility and stamina, builds strength and improves balance and concentration. Bring yoga mat and towel. Ages 18+. M 11:30am12:30pm. Danville Library Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Let’s Dance – Rumba, swing, waltz and more. Learn new moves, make new friends. M 7-8:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

October 6

Danville Historical Society’s Quiz Night Test your knowledge of local and world history in a fun atmosphere at Jake’s on Main in the fountain plaza.

The quiz begins at 7:30pm. Jake’s opens for participants at 6pm for those who want to eat before the competition.

Advance registration is necessary either as an individual or as a team of four.

Shl840@comcast.net.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party – Dress as your favorite version of the Mad Hatter or any other Alice in Wonderland character.

Ages 6+. 4-5pm. Danville Public Library.

434.799.5195.

October 7

Deco Mesh Wreath Making – Learn how to make a seasonal wreath. 3-5pm and 6-8pm.. Ballou Recreation Center.

434.799.5216.

Coffeehouse Lecture Series – A lecture by Dr. Susan Huckstep on “Communication: It’s the Problem and the Answer.” Lecture will cover why good communication is so difficult and what to do when it breaks down. Multipurpose room, AU Student Center. 7pm. Free to the public.

October 7 (thru 28)

Urban Style Line Dance – Instructor Monica Diallo incorporates R&B music with basic steps and finishes with more advanced moves, giving you a fun workout. T 6-7:30pm. Pepsi Building.

434.797.8848.

If you’d like to submit an item for the Evince calendar, visit www.showcasemagazine.com. The deadline for the November issue is Sunday, October 12, at 5:00 p.m. Please send just the basic information following the format on these pages.

Evince Magazine October 7

Polliwogs & Science Stars. Ages 3–4, 1–2pm. Ages 5–7, 3:30–4:30pm.

Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

October 9

Reminiscing with Robbie – Features the duo of Robbie and Betty on guitar and piano playing your favorites from the 50s and 60s with some classic country music. 12-2pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

Archery (Youth Competition) – Test your skills as an archer in this friendly target competition designed to draw young people together in an atmosphere of good sportsmanship and mutual respect. Ages 12-17. 7-9pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.799.5215.

2nd Thursday Science Talks – Dr. James Beard, VMNH Curator of Earth Sciences, Director of Research and Collections. 6-7pm. VMNH, Martinsville.

276.634.4141.

October 10 & 11

River District Festival – Art showcase, food, entertainment and a glow run on Friday evening. Showcase Alley, Adventure Run, Regional & National entertainment and more on Saturday.

(10/10) 5pm. (10/11) 10pm. Danville.

October 10

Glow with the Flow 5K – Presented by Danville Regional Medical Center. Run or walk with your pet or stroller. Event begins and finishes at The Brick on Main Street. Entertainment provided by DJ Bobby White. 7:45pm-10pm. River District. 434.799.5150.

Say What? – The presentation will focus on hearing and how it feels/sounds to be a person who has hearing loss. 1-2pm.

Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

Comedy Night Show – Dave Martin will be headlining with his brand of comedy, including many different characters, storytelling, and musical parodies. He’s appeared on HBO and opened for Steve Harvey, Cedric The Entertainer, & Mike Epps. Doors open at 7:30. Tickets $15.

North Theatre 434.793.7469.

Romantic Music and More! – Featuring the Rainier Trio: Kevin Matheson, violin; Bryan Matheson, viola; and Brenda Wittner, piano. 7pm.

Chatham Concert Series, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 66 N. Main St. Chatham. See page 14.

October 11

Danville Regional Cardboard Challenge – Win thousands for your favorite non-profit. Only charities with a 501(c)(3) are eligible to win. Contact Lynette Anderson at the Danville Welcome Center for registration information. 10am-4pm. Carrington Pavilion. 434.793.4636.

Imagine Children’s Festival.

See page 14.

Tour de Habitat – Danville Orthopedic & Athletic Rehab presents this organized, untimed bicycle ride to benefit Danville-Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity. There will be 20, 35 and 60-mile route options. The 20-mile route will be accessible to beginning riders. 7:30am-12pm. Main Street Plaza. 434.797.1504.

Kayaking (River District Festival) – Enjoy part of your time at the River District Festival from the water as you kayak to Dan Daniel Memorial Park.

All equipment and shuttle service will be provided. Ages 12+. 1:302:30pm. Newtons Landing Parking Lot. 434.799.5215.

Fall Festival – Activities, games, and delicious food. 11am-2pm. Patrick Henry Elementary School, Martinsville, VA. 276.634.0121.

Concert of Slight of Hand – Featuring celebrity Magician Wayne Alan in the balcony mini theatre. The Historic North Theatre. 8 pm 793.6479 Butterfly Station & Garden: Farewell for the Season – The Butterfly Station and Garden say farewell by collecting seeds of butterfly-friendly plants and making a seed wreath to plant in the spring. All ages. Crossing at the Dan

Learn at the Danville Science Center – Check out all the education stations in the Carrington Pavilion to learn about river safety, ecology and stewardship, along with rocketry, robotics and some local archaeology. Visit our galleries for a special buy one, get one free admission. Carrington activities free. All ages. 10am-4pm.

October 11 & 25

Adoption Fair – Animals from Danville Area Humane Society Animal Shelter will be at Carpetland-USA. 11am-2pm.

434.799.0843.

October 12

Annie Moses Band – An ensemble of six instrumentalists and vocalists. Their cutting edge sound fuses American roots, folk rock and jazz in stunning performances that feature strings, keyboards, guitar, and rhythm. 7pm.

Martinsville High School Auditorium.

October 12 (thru Nov 5)

36th Annual Juried Art Show – Open to adult artists from throughout North Carolina and Virginia working in two dimensions. October 8 at 4 pm is deadline for entries. October 12, Opening reception 2-4pm. Caswell Gallery Program, Caswell County Civic Center 336.694.4591

October 13

Mystery Trip Express – We never disclose where we might be going.

Trips are kept to an hour and a half. We depart from Ballou Recreation Center at 11 am. Wear comfortable shoes. 11am12:30pm. 434.799.5216.

Reading by Charles Swanson – Charles Swanson, poet, teacher, and pastor of the Melville Avenue Baptist Church in Danville, will read from his poems: After the Garden: Selected Responses to the Psalms. Averett University, Mary B. Blount Library. 3 pm.

October 14

Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit.

See page 14

October 16

Sky Watchers Starting indoors at the Dome Theater followed by outdoor telescope viewing, weather permitting.

Free with pre-registration. Danville Science Center 791.5160 DRBA’s 2014 Art in Nature Auction – Browse and bid on 120+ one-of-akind items: jewelry, sculpture, artwork, pottery, furniture, quilts and more. 100% of the proceeds benefit Dan River Basin Association’s stewardship, education and recreation projects. 6pm. 2 Witches Brewery & Winery. 336.627.6270.

Gardening Basics – Stuart Sutphin, Virginia Cooperative Extension Agent, will share information and answer questions about gardening topics and more. Pre-registration required. 121:30pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

Autism Workshop – Led by Dr. Jill Hamlin, Director of the Autism Studies program at Averett University, this workshop will assist with the use of visual strategies guaranteed to lead to behavior change in any environment.

6-8pm. Ballou Recreation Center.

434.799.5199.

October 17

Three Part Talk Series. Averett University. averett.edu.

Martha Connerton/Kenetics Works.

Kirby Theatre, Roxboro. 336.597.1709.

Sky Watchers. Nightfall. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

October 17 (thru 19)

Danville Line Dance Fest – Learn the newest and hottest in intermediate and advanced dances on Saturday. Sunday is anything-goes day when you will learn more advanced dances. (10/17) 7-10pm, (10/18) 10am-10pm, (10/19) 10am-2pm. Ballou Recreation Center.

434.799.5216.

October 17 (thru 31)

Houdini’s Haunted House – It’s a normal Haunted House with interesting Houdini artifacts scattered throughout.

Friday & Saturday, 6p.m.-midnight.

North Theatre. 434.792.2700.

October 17

Painting in a Day – Acrylic painting class. Ages 13+. 1-4pm and 6-9pm.

Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216.

Code Pink Fashion Show – This event will feature breast cancer awareness and prevention education and models strutting on the catwalk in fabulous fashions from local thrift shops.

Spectators will receive a gift bag and the chance to win many raffle prizes.

434.799.5216.

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great – Being a 10 year-old kid is kind of a pain. Sheila Tubman, sometimes known as Sheila the Great, comes of age in Artpower’s lively musical about discovering the person within. Based on award-winning author Judy Blume’s popular children’s book. Recommended for Grades 2-6. 10am-12:30pm. Caswell County Civic Center, Yanceyville, North Carolina. 336.694.4591.

October 17 (thru 26)

The Dixie Swim Club – Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships.

They meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks to catch up, laugh and meddle in each other’s lives. (10/17, 10/18, 10/24, 10/25) 7:30pm, (10/19, 10/26) 2:30pm.

The Prizery. South Boston, VA. 434.572.8339.

October 18

Fall Vendor Blender – See page 14.

Danville Juried Art League 10am entries accepted for consideration DMFAH, 975 Main St. 793.5644 Build a Better World Disc Golf Tournament – See page 14.

October 18 & 19

Safe Teen Drive Course – The Safe Teen Driver Course provides teens a mix of both hands-on behind-the-wheel training to improve vehicle control in a controlled setting and a class curriculum focused on mental skills. (10/18) 8am, (10/19) 5pm. VIRginia International Raceway. 919.802.4304.

October 18 & 25

Halloween Magic Show – A fun yet spooky magic show for the whole family.

8pm. North Theatre. 434.793.7469.

October 19

Haunted Trail – Who knows what ghoulish things will be lurking in the shadows of the trees and rocks?

Children ages 13 and under require a paying parent or guardian to enter.

Located on Edgewood Trail. 7pm.

Staunton River Battlefield State Park.

Randolph, VA. 434.454.4312.

Scott Helmer Concert – Blend of rock and pop. 2pm. North Theatre.

434.793.7469.

October 21

Dr. Hill’s Advice for Healthy Living – Hill’s Chiropractic Clinic will present information on healthy eating, immunity, and tips for daily living. 12-1pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

DRF & DPCCC Speaker Series. See page 5.

October 22

Danville-Pittsylvania County Habit for Humanity Building Hope Breakfast – See page 14.

October 23

Gallery on the Go – Join Lee Sandstead, an Associate Professor of Art at Averett University, for an exciting journey through the world of art history.

11:30am-12:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

Art History Presentation, Erika Sturkie – This art exhibit is in Mary B. Blount Library, West Main Street. Free to the public. 5pm.

October 24

Chili & Jus’Cauz Annual Fun/Fund Raiser DMFAH. 434.793.5644.

Danville Symphony Orchestra Concert See page 14.

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October 25

A New Mosaic: African American Art See page 15.

Civil War to Civil Rights Dr. Evie Terrano, Associate Professor of Art History at Randolph-Macon College will discuss how African-American artists engage the past. DMFAH, 975 Main St. 793.5644 Zip Line (Fall Flight) – Dan Daniel Memorial Park. Ages 8+. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.12pm. Skate Park Shelter. 434.799.5215.

Moonlight Masquerade – This fundraising gala will include dancing to Motown and classic rock music by the Steve Freeman Trio, hors d’oeuvres and desserts, a costume contest with prizes, door prizes and a cash bar featuring wine and beer. Attire is costume or cocktail. 7-10pm. Avoca Museum, Altavista 434.369.1076.

SCCA Charge of the Headlight Brigade – Hosted by the NC Region SCCA, this will be one of the stops that makes up the coveted Triple Crown of amateur endurance racing. 8am11pm. VIRginia International Raceway.

434.822.7700, ext. 300.

Fall Pickle Ball Tournament – For ages 18+. 8:30am- 6pm. Ballou Park Tennis Courts. 434.799.5216.

SOVA Wine Fest. 11am. The Berry Hill Resort. South Boston The Kruger Brothers and The Kontras String Quartet – Some call it Jazz. Some call it Classical. Some call it Bluegrass. This music is all that and more. 7:30pm. See ad page 17.

October 25 & 26

Sasquatch vs. Rockness Disc Golf Tournament – Sponsored by the Person County Recreation Arts and Parks Department at Mayo Lake and Piedmont Community College. 9:30am.

1013 Neal’s Store Rd. Roxboro, North Carolina. 336.597.7806.

October 26

Danville Juried Art League Opening Reception. 2:30-4:30pm. DMFAH. 434.793.5644.

October 27 (thru Dec 1)

Student Art Show, Quienton Greear – This art exhibit is in Jut’s Café, AU Student Center. Free to the public.

October 29 (thru Nov 1)

Voices from the Past: Historical Halloween See page 15.

October 29

Doodle Bugs! – Virginia Museum of Natural History offers children ages 3-5 the opportunity to experience natural history firsthand. The hour long programs include imaginative stories, fun activities, games and crafts that spark creativity and curiosity. 3-4pm.

Martinsville. 276.634.4141.

October 31

Houdini Festival – Magic show, lectures, demonstrations, movies & more. North Theatre. 434.793.7469.

All Hallows Read and Movie Spectacular – Free comic books and candy, seasonal read-alouds and classic horror films in the Teen Area will be featured throughout the day.

10am-5pm. Danville Public Library.

434.799.5195.

COAY Halloween Dance – Join the Council on Aging Youthfully for a Halloween celebration. Put on your favorite costume and dance the night away. Includes refreshments. Ages 50+ 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Upcoming November 1

Danville Historical Society Halloween Speakeasy – DEACC Building, 769 Main Street; 8pm to midnight; featuring a DJ, a silent auction, and delicious food.

Costumes optional. www.danvillehistory. org. 434.799.2323.

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October 2014

I

previously wrote about the demolition of Dan River Mills in Schoolfield giving birth to unintended art along the path to nothingness (Destruction’s Promise February 2014). Art and analogy are still being born there.

Life Rising from the Rubble

by Mack Williams

Although gone now, there were several stone stairs that stood by themselves minus the buildings that once contained them. One skyblue day, those 45 degreeangled steps seemed to ascend toward the heavens reminiscent of ancient Mayan observatories.

A good part of the mill has been turned into gigantic piles of crushed brick rubble, their pyramid shape dictated by gravity. In one section, I saw some wreckage, seemingly standing high above everything else. It was vertical, reminding me of the huge Christ the Redeemer of the Andes statue, except this seemed like the Christ of Schoolfield, its head sadly bowed over what had been.

I’ve seen debris like this used in the landscaping around certain eateries.

Although I’m sure a host of cigarette butts were tossed at Schoolfield

Mill, it would be especially sad to see the former mill’s shattered flesh mixed with litter outside a fast-food restaurant. Construction-fill would be nobler.

The great piles differ slightly in color, like tempura paint powder. If the

Deity would only dip a giant brush into the nearby industrial pool and take repeated dabs of color from those ground-brick mountains! He might then paint Schoolfield Mill (and while He’s at it, the old Schoolfield Recreation Center) on the barren, horizontal canvass of concrete.

Clumps of rich green grass now grow on one of those piles of man-made soil, like vegetation returning after a natural disaster. But in this case, both the soil and the calamity are man-made. A grass’s life is much simpler than the outsourcings and bankruptcies of the economic world. As far as grass knows, something disastrous happened at Schoolfield and this pile of remains is a good place for life to begin again.

Apparently, the grass and some hopeful human planners have the same idea.

• Danville is marketing the former Schoolfield Mill site through a national commercial real estate brokerage firm and with a glossy 32-page booklet.

• Potential site plans have been developed that show the smoke stacks and water tower intact and include additional buildings that blend with the existing ones.

• The site is ideal for high-tech companies such as data storage facilities that backup computer files for businesses and government offices.

Evince Magazine

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October 2014

Book Clubbing A review by Diane Adkins

The Long Way Home

by Louise Penny

Louise Penny’s latest book, the tenth in her beloved Chief Inspector Gamache mystery series, begins with Armand Gamache and his wife, who are happily retired in the village of Three Pines. At the center of the story is Clara Morrow, famed artist and Gamache’s neighbor, and her quest to find her husband, Peter, who has failed to return after a year of separation to assess the status of their marriage and the possibility of a future together.

Many of Penny’s favorite characters are involved in the search: Ruth, the elderly, profane poet and her equally outrageous pet duck Rosa; Myrna, the psychologist turned bookstore owner; Reine-Marie, the Chief Inspector’s librarian spouse; and of course, Jean-Guy Beauvoir, the Chief Inspector’s right-hand man. The clues they have are works of art that Peter has sent to his sister’s child, paintings which suggest that Peter also has been on a quest, one like Dorothy and her companions in the Wizard of Oz—to find courage, to find his heart.

Penny’s books are not simple, cozy mysteries. They shed a light on the depths of true evil in this world. They are not overtly religious, but have spiritual themes. Gamache is a good man fighting those forces of evil.

The costs of it are high to all involved and Penny does not shrink from describing them. The real battles are often personal and psychological.

However, in her previous books she has juxtaposed against that evil the village of Three Pines, a tiny Quebec town, a good place where people who need it tend to find it, although it shows up on no road map. Its inhabitants have the flaws of real people. They live in community, support each other, and work for the common good. In this book, they join together to battle the forces arrayed against them. The importance of Three Pines is nowhere made clearer than at the end of A Long Way Home.

Penny has said, “If you take only one thing away from any of my books, I’d like it to be this: goodness exists.” On the days when that is hard to believe, this series of books can draw a reader closer to that light.

Diane S. Adkins is the Director of the Pittsylvania County Public Library System, with branches in Brosville, Chatham, Gretna, Mt. Hermon, as well as a History Research Center and Library located in the former Chatham Train Depot.

Send information about what you or your book club is reading to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

Evince Magazine

What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania County Public Libraries

The difference between

&

Reading/Learning Programs:

Mother Goose on the Loose—Mondays, 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Chatham; Fridays at 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon (except for October 24). This early literacy program incorporates music, poems, nursery rhymes, and rhythm instruments.

Open to children ages birth to 3 with their parents or caregivers.

Wednesdays for Wees: Chatham, Gretna, Mt. Hermon and Brosville/Cascade, 10:00 a.m. Children ages newborn to 5.

Saturday Storytime: With special guest Winnie the Witch. On October 25, 10:00 a.m., Gretna.

Family Story Time: Thursday afternoons at 4:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon.

Monster Stories: Saturday, October 18, noon until 1:00 p.m., Chatham. Ages 9-13. Bring your flashlight!

Homeschooler Get-Together—Duct Tape Workshop: Friday, October 3, 1:00-3:00 p.m., Brosville.

Adults - Second Thursday Book Discussion Group: October 9, 4:00-5:30 p.m., Chatham. Open to adults. Book Talk: October 10, noon, Brosville.

Focus is biography; bring food based on the person you are reading about.

Health Programs:

Zen Zone: noon, Wednesdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, Brosville. Destressing techniques you can use including reflexology, aromatherapy, and music.

Low-impact Exercise: Mondays and Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Brosville. Uses the Go4Life routine from the National Institute on Aging, Tai Chi, Wii, yoga, and chair exercise routines.

Group Fitness: Mondays and Thursdays, October 2, 6, 16, 20, 23, 27, and 30, 5:30 p.m., Gretna.

Aromatherapy Workshop Series: Brosville, 5:30 p.m. to7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 2: Introduction to Aromatherapy; October 9: Health/Pain; October 16: Immune Boosting; October 30: Meditation. Workshops cost $5.00 each to cover materials for samples.

Computer Classes:

Page 23

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Individual Help: Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Chatham. Bring your questions and receive one-on-one help with your computer or device. Low stress, lots of friendly help.

Arts and Craft Programs:

Re-use It Tuesdays: 5:30 p.m., Gretna. Check out the library’s Facebook page to see photos of the projects. Call for a list of materials to bring. 434.656.2579.

Make-and-Take Craft: Tuesday, October 14, 3:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., Chatham. Bath tissue roll pumpkin. All ages.

Knitting and Amigurumi Crochet: Mondays, October 6 and 20, 6:30 p.m. Mt. Hermon. All skill levels.

Needlework: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m., Brosville. Knitting, embroidery, crochet.

Art Class: Tuesdays, October 21 and 28, 4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., Chatham.

MARY BALDWIN COLLEGE in Emporia, South Boston,and South Hill

Movies:

Movie: Friday, October 3, 3:45 p.m. Gretna. Muppets Most Wanted.

Teen Afterschool Movie: Friday, October 17, 3:45 p.m., Gretna. Godzilla.

Wednesday, October 25, 4:00 p.m., Gretna. Toy Story of Terror.

Movie Night: Monday, October 27, 5:30 p.m., Chatham. Divergent (PG13).

Gaming Programs:

Bingo: Thursday, October 2, 4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., Chatham. All ages.

Lego Fun Day: Saturday, October 11, 10:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. free play day All ages welcome. Lego Club: Thursday, October 30, 4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., Chatham.

Special Events:

Star Wars Read Day, October 10, all day, Brosville. Come in and receive a Star Wars goody bag and check out Star War books.

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Friday, October 10, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 11, 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., Chatham Depot Annex, Chatham.

Teen Read Week, October 13-18, Brosville: Little Free Library Book Swap.

Swap a young adult book for a young adult book; tell us your favorite author or book and enter for a chance to win a prize.

Star Wars Read Day, Friday, October 17, 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon.

Games, prizes.

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Saturday, October 18, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon.

Bendable Mummies, October 20, 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Brosville. Wrap a mummy and pose it for your desk.

Mummy Votive, October 27, 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Brosville. Light your doorway with this glowing mummy.

Friends of Library Meeting, October 23, 6:00 p.m., Brosville.

All libraries will be closed on Monday, October 13. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. For more information, contact Gretna Library, 207 A Coffey Street, 434.656.2579; Mt. Hermon Library, 2725 Franklin Turnpike, 434.835.0326; PCP Main Library, 24 Military Drive, Chatham, 434.432.3271 or visit www.pcplib.org.

Introducing the new

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mbc.edu Apply by November 30 540-887-4321

Page 24

October 2014

H

ave you been around zealous people? They’re so passionate about their projects that they’re unstoppable.

They mow down barriers like a riding lawnmower bearing down on overgrown grass.

I am especially excited about working with students when I see them exhibit this kind of zeal. Their enthusiasm spreads like wildfire.

They’re convinced that their projects will change their world.

They’re focused. They’re like a force of nature. When they’re that enthusiastic, I do everything I can to help them achieve their goals.

Here’s an example that still brings tears to my eyes.

I manage the work-study students at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library. A few years ago, a core group of our work-study students felt that the library should have more pop in the form of a fish tank. They wanted freshwater fish for people to stop next to, look at, and linger near. They felt the fish would be a focal point in the library. These students were-and are--remarkable citizens and leaders. They were passionate about this project and they believed if they could obtain a fish tank for

Reflecting Forward The Voice of Zeal

by Linda Lemery

Photo by Peggy Adkins.

the library, it would be one of their lasting contributions to Averett.

I believe in servant leadership. I

have learned over the years that unimagined benefits come from unusual initiatives, and that for individuals to achieve at and beyond their capacities, they need to follow their passions. In this case, these students were passionate about the library having a fish tank. I recognized that and would have all but stood on my head to remove barriers to achieve this goal. We talked to the library’s department head, who was in favor of the project, if the students could pay for and maintain it. I then learned that they had already taken up a collection yielding $31-- a lot of money for students. I became teary over that. However, this project would ultimately cost $500+ because they wanted a 55-gallon fish tank and needed start-up supplies.

While they practiced with a 5-gallon fish tank, my challenge was helping them find a way to earn the funds.

I tried looking in the newspaper, Piedmont Shopper, and on-line, and couldn’t find a used fish tank. I tried explaining the project to many, many people, asking for someone to donate an unused large fish tank, with no success. In desperation, I, an introvert, stood up in a monthly campus-wide staff meeting held in a dauntingly large room to ask that same question of Averett staff members. Many heads looked at me as if I were an alien. There was a long silence. Then the meeting continued.

Later I received a call from Institutional Advancement (IA) at

Averett. IA was intrigued by this project. Funds had been donated in memory of Fran Henderson, a revered staff member and champion of student interests at Averett. Ms. Henderson believed that there was no higher calling than to help students achieve their goals. The staff member thought that a project like this would be consistent with what Fran Henderson would have wanted. The amount of money available was approximately what our students would need to achieve this project.

IA invited them to submit a grant proposal.

My tears started running. My students were staring at me. I had to mop my eyes and compose myself before I shared that there might be an in-house way to help them achieve their goal. These students had never written a grant proposal before. However, I had written many as a community volunteer and taught them everything from needs statement to crafting the budget. The students developed a draft. We made many revisions and then took it to the department head. She and the students took it to IA together. And we waited...and then IA called to say the project had been funded!

Privately they told me they’d never seen anything like this come from students. I cried again.

The students formed the Fish Council and recruited two members of the library staff who knew about fish to serve as advisors (Not me -- the most experience I have with fish is whether to order them fried or grilled). The students selected and purchased the tank, chose compatible fish, read a lot, and trained themselves with the help of their advisors. Ultimately, they turned their attention to succession planning by training other undergraduate students to succeed them in tank maintenance. These core students proved themselves to be future leaders.

We’ve had the tank several years and the fish are thriving. The core students learned authentic, real-world project planning and implementation, fish care, and grant writing skills. But most of all, they learned that when they pour their hearts into an endeavor, things happen. Passion changes the world. Nothing else ever has.

How’s that for an amazing example of student zeal?

About the Author: Linda Lemery llemery@averett.edu is Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville. She welcomes your comments .

Evince Magazine

Welcoming Fall with Zeal

by Annelle Williams Autumn provides a spectacular background for a month filled with entertainment opportunities. There are ball games, fall fairs, and hayrides to enjoy and of course, Halloween. I spend time every fall planning menus and thinking of new foods we can enjoy that can be easily prepared ahead of time and served with little trouble or clean-up.

Page 25

Danville’s Best Kept Secret

When I saw this salad I knew it would be a good choice and something a little different that would satisfy everyone, even our vegetarian friends. I’m going to serve the salad in individual clear plastic cups with plastic wrap lids and store them in the cooler until it’s time for the tailgating party. If you’re serving it at home, use a clear serving bowl. The layers will be visible and will make a beautiful presentation. Add shredded, cooked chicken and it easily becomes a full meal. Toasted pita bread is the perfect accompaniment.

We offer Rehab Seven Days a Week.

Our Services include: Greek Salad with Orzo and Black-Eyed Peas (6-8 servings) adapted from Epicurious 1 (15oz.) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed 1 cup diced tomatoes 2 T chopped parsley 2 T olive oil, divided 2 T red wine vinegar

1⁄2 cup pitted Kalamata olives quartered 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion 1 tsp. grated lemon zest 2 T fresh lemon juice 1 T chopped fresh oregano

1 tsp. salt 1⁄2 tsp. pepper

2-3 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce 1 cup crumbled feta 1 whole or 1 tsp. shredded pepperoncini per serving for garnish

3⁄4 cup orzo 1⁄2 English cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded and diced

�� Customized Plan of Care with up to 3 Hours a Day of Therapy �� Physical Therapy �� Occupational Therapy �� Speech Therapy �� Vital Stim Therapy

Spend less time recovering,

And more time living.

Cook orzo according to package instructions, drain, rinse under cold water until cool, drain again.

Toss together black-eyed peas, tomatoes, parsley, 1 tablespoon olive oil, red wine vinegar, 1⁄2 teaspoon salt and 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper. Let marinate while preparing the remaining ingredients of salad.

In medium-sized bowl, combine cooled and drained orzo, remaining tablespoon of oil, cucumber, olives, onion, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, 1⁄2 teaspoon salt and 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper.

Piney Forest Health & Rehabilitation Center

To serve, layer ingredients starting with black-eyed pea mixture and juices on the bottom, followed by orzo mixture, shredded lettuce and crumbled feta.

Garnish with pepperoncini.

������������������������������������������ 434-799-1565 www. PineyForestRehab.com

Questions or comments?

Email me: AnnelleWilliams@comcast.net I look forward to hearing from you!

®

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October 2014

Photo Finish

The Danville Family YMCA staff prepares for the reception: CEO Sarah Folmar; Business Manager Kim Tatum; Aquatics & Childcare Director, Cord Cothren; Sports & Wellness Director Chris Wilson; Facility Director Eric Thornton and Membership & Marketing Director Dustin Whittle. (photo by Cory Williams)

Evince photographer, Von Wellington, was at the YMCA donor appreciation event on September 4 and caught these people having fun.

If you haven’t taken a tour of the new YMCA facility, do it now. The staff is very welcoming and someone will lead you on a tour. There are four ways to become involved: join, volunteer, be an advocate and/or be a donor. For more information, call 434.792.0621, visit 215 Riverside Drive or www.ymcadanville.org.

YMCA Board member Walter Griffins and wife Cynthia take a minute to relax during the opening festivities.

Courtney Nicholas, Eric Thornton, YMCA Board Member Michael Nicholas, and Tracie Thornton stand near the café that sells coffee, smoothies, and protein/ granola bars.

For more info about Von Wellington Photography, visit www.vonwellingtonphotography.com or call 434.770.3553. See more pictures on Facebook.

Former YMCA Board member, Shannon Hair, chats with current board member and Chair of the New Facility Committee, Jim Abercrombie, and Wendy Abercrombie after the unveiling of the donor wall.

The night view from the YMCA is beautiful and calming.

Physical therapist Scott Oaks, speech therapist Jenny Gay, and Danville Regional Medical Center CEO Eric Deaton are thrilled that the YMCA and the DRMC Sports Medicine & Rehab are partners at the new facility on Riverside Drive.

YMCA CEO Sarah Folmar presents a Von Wellington photograph of the new YMCA to Charles Majors, Chairman of the Danville Regional Foundation, and Starling McKenzie, DRF Program Director.

The gift was in appreciation for the $9.4 million grant from the DRF. U.S. Congressman Robert Hurt was a guest speaker at the donor appreciation event.

YMCA Member Services Coordinator Katie Prescott, Campaign Coordinator Morgan Taylor, and Business Manager Kim Tatum, kick up their heels in celebration.

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Page 27

Sharon Whitt, Gayle Miller, and Rives Deaton chat with Elizabeth Walden (back to camera) about the new opportunities for staying healthy.

Sports & Wellness Director Chris Wilson, YMCA Ambassador Debi Whittle, and Harte Whittle enjoy the opening remarks.

Capital Campaign Chairman Sammy Thomas and Rosalee Maxwell stand in front of the window overlooking the pool that is twice the size of the pool at the previous location.

Server Christina Orrell from Golden Leaf Bistro works behind the scenes to make everything perfect.

Elizabeth Walden is surrounded by handsome men: Matt Clay, Keith Walden, and Josh Seamster.

Bike racks are available at the entrance to the YMCA. There is easy access to the Riverwalk for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Pianist Katya Lapin and violinist Matvey Lapin play beautiful music during the joyful occasion.

YMCA Board President Greg McQuaid and CEO Sarah Folmar take pleasure in knowing that years of work have paid off.

Robin and Bob “The Builder” Mitchell listen to the opening remarks.

Bob is the YMCA project manager and owner’s representative.