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Evince Magazine Page 1

Derek Anderson and Joe Scott Opening Doors in Danville Page 14

Kim McGuire Demont

Designing for Danville & Beyond Page 3

December 2015

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

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Editor’s Note

December is the season of busy preparation in the upstairs, downtown office of Demont Design because Kim Demont’s work space with a terrific view of Main Street is on Danville Historical Society’s Holiday Tour (see ad page 8). See this Danville professional on the cover and then read how she went from hating computers to making a career of working with one (page 3). For Joe Scott and Derek Anderson (also on the cover), it’s the season of holiday decorating and cooking. Read your invitation to visit their home and restaurant on page 14, Opening Doors in Danville. What other seasons do we recognize in December? A time for helping. See page 20 Service Is the Rent We Pay by Alexis Ehrhardt. A time for celebration. Read Dave Slayton’s Wine Spot on page 28 and then answer his question: Will you be tasting stars this season? A time to make healthy choices. Read Ciji Moore’s Who Said It Would Be Easy? on page 7 and Stephanie Feruggia’s Want to Eat Healthier? Just Ask on page 12. A season of gratitude. Linda Lemery creates a list of reasons why she’s thankful on page 27. Follow her example and create your own. A period for quiet reflection and treasuring every moment according to Casey Molloy’s Meditation Moment on page 11 and Carollyn Peerman’s Organizing Your Day Is a Source of Power on page 21. Of course, the Christmas season with all the fun it brings. Dena Hill can help plan your itinerary in the She Said He Said column on page 4. For once, He Said (Larry Oldham) just agrees. It’s the Christmas miracle.

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December Contents

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Editor’s Note Kim McGuire Demont / Designing for Danville & Beyond by Joyce Wilburn She Said He Said / Christmas Miles by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham The Voice of Readers Who Said It Would Be Easy? by Ciji Moore Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Larry & Nancy Aaron Second Thoughts / Hop on the Bus, Gus by Kim Clifton Mercy / Fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg Meditation Moment / Giving the Most Precious Gift by Casey Molloy Food for Thought / Want to Eat Healthier? Just Ask by Stephanie Ferrugia Joe Scott and Derek Anderson / Opening Doors in Danville by Joyce Wilburn Carson Davenport Local Artist with an International Reputation by Crystal Gregory Calendar Clips Calendar Where Can I Find an Evince? Service Is the Rent We Pay by Alexis Ehrhardt Organizing Your Day Is a Source of Power by Carollyn Peerman Spring to Green: Gardening for Southside by Archer McIntire Book Clubbing / The Opposite House, Impossible Bottle and Headwaters reviews by Diane Adkins What’s Happening in the Public Libraries My Father’s Christmas Present by Mack Williams Reﬂecting Forward / A Season of Gratitude by Linda Lemery Wine Spot / Will you be tasting stars this season? by Dave Slayton Around the Table / Bubbly Goes with Everything by Annelle Williams Photo Finish Happy Holidays!

On the Cover: Cover Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography

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

OICE OF THE SEASONS

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

Larry Aaron, Nancy Aaron, Diane Adkins, Janet Aponte, Melanie Campbell, Kim Clifton, Ernecia Coles, Ina Dixon, Alexis Ehrhardt, Stephanie Ferrugia, Mary Franklin, Adam Goebel, Crystal Gregory, Dena Hill, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Archer McIntire, Casey Molloy, Ciji Moore, Larry Oldham, Carollyn Lee Peerman, Susan Paynter, Alice Saunders, Dave Slayton, Melany Stowe, Trena Taylor, Denise Wyatt, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams

Business Manager Paul Seiple(1.877.638.8685) paul@evincemagazine.com Marketing Consultants Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net Lee Vogler (434.548.5335) lee@showcasemagazine.com Misty Brooks (434.728.2905) misty@showcasemagazine.com Art & Production Director Demont Design (Kim Demont) evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW Deadline for submission of January stories, articles, and ads is Friday, December 18, at 5:00 p.m. Submit stories and articles to: joycewilburn@gmail.com. Submit calendar items by Tuesday, December 15, at 5 p.m. For ad information contact a marketing consultant or the Director of Sales & Marketing listed above.

Editorial Policies:

See page 14

Meet Some of Our Contributors

Enjoy these stories and more. It’s a gift from all of us at Evince to our readers. We hope you like it.

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 © 2015 All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part in any medium without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Sincerely,

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

THE

Crystal Gregory is retired and rediscovering writing as an opportunity to meet interesting people. See her story on page 15.

Ciji Moore is the Outreach Coordinator for Get Fit Dan River Region, 308 Craghead Street. www.getﬁtdanriver.org.

Janet Aponte is a Danville Master Gardener who works with publicity/ advertising for Spring to Green. See page 17.

Mack Williams works as the Natural History Educator for the Danville Science Center. He is an avid walker and receives inspiration for his writing by the things he sees as he walks through Danville.

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

For subscriptions to Evince, email cindy@showcasemagazine.com

Evince Magazine Page 3

s a recent high school graduate in the 1980s, Kim McGuire Demont knew after a few semesters of studying computer programming at Danville Community College that she was in the wrong ﬁeld. “I didn’t want to sit in front of a computer for the rest of my life,” the Danville native says while laughing at the irony of her situation.

home dealers, constructions companies, institutions of higher learning, several non-proﬁt organizations and other local companies and individuals. Kim has also been a subcontractor for a client in Connecticut. Because of that business connection, her logo designs can be seen in Washington State, Texas, and New Jersey. Throughout the years, however, she has stayed in the same place. “I’ve been at 525 Main Street almost 25 years,” she says referring to the trim two-story brick building constructed in 1896. “The funny thing is I think my grandfather used to work next door when it was a Singer Sewing Machine store,” she says reﬂecting on the changes the neighborhood has experienced.

As owner and sole employee of Demont Design, Kim spends every weekday (and sometimes nights and weekends) working on the computer in her quaint office on the upper level of a historic Main Street building. Designing logos, brochures, catalogs, newsletters, annual reports, monthly magazines and other printed publications and creating layout for billboards, signage, t-shirts, and museum display panels requires hours of screen time and she’s OK with that. Even though those first computer classes held no appeal that changed over time. “I didn’t grow up knowing what I wanted to do. I was artistic and drew all the time but never considered it a career option until I enrolled at James Madison University,” says the very successful entrepreneur. From September 1985 until graduation in 1988, she took numerous commercial art classes, but computers weren’t used in any of them. “My first computer design class was the last semester in college,” she remembers and then continues, “All my work before that was done manually on art boards.” Returning to Danville, one of Kim’s first jobs was at McCain Printing. Thinking back on the experience gained there, she remarks, “Every graphic designer should work for a printer to understand how printing is done. It is invaluable.” After 18 months, Danny Vaden offered her a position at his new graphic design business, Vaden & Associates. She accepted. “I learned so much while working for Danny and his wife Vickie.

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Kim McGuire Demont

Designing for Danville & Beyond by Joyce Wilburn I’m grateful for all the experience I gained as their employee and the lasting friendship as well,” she says. She worked for Danny from June 1990 until he closed his business at the end of February 2011 at which time she opened Demont

Design. Thinking back over the years of work, Kim comments, “Most people probably don’t realize how much design I’ve done that they see everyday.” Kim is responsible for designing quite a few well-known logos and printed pieces in the Danville area. Her clients include banks,

Downtown Danville has also seen a lot of change and Kim’s three office windows offer an excellent view of the transformation. “I’ve always loved Main Street and remember going shopping with my grandmother, especially at Belk’s with its grand staircase. Downtown was nice then, but it’s more polished now and there is a very strong sense of community,” she says. After a minute of reflection, she adds, “I just love my little office. It’s the perfect size for me. It feels good.” Kim doesn’t even mind climbing the 21 steps that lead to her upper-level work space. Nor is she bothered that there is an electronic device waiting for her touch to make its screen come alive so she can enjoy another day of working in front of a computer. • Demont Design, 525 Main Street, is one of 15 sites on Danville Historical Society’s 43rd Annual Holiday Tour, Upstairs, Downtown. See ad page 8. • To learn more about Demont Design, visit demontdesign.net or call 434.792.0612. • Kim has worked for Evince since its beginning in July 1996 and has been a part of every issue. She started by designing ads and now in addition to the ad work, she creates the layout for the entire publication.

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December 2015

SHE SAID

have beautiful Christmas Eve services and Sunday services with holiday music and readings.

by Dena Hill

Christmas Miles It’s time for our yearly road trips to see holiday decorations. Last month my sister and brother-in-law were kind enough to indulge us by riding eight hours just to eat dinner. Well guess what I have in mind for them now? We always go to Leon & Ann Paschal’s Country Christmas Lights in Caswell County, North Carolina, to see the decorations even though we have to park hundreds of feet away just for the opportunity to walk through the village. It’s fantastic! It is also free but donations are welcomed to help pay the utility bill.

So we are getting our traveling gear together, ﬁlling up the car, and planning our agenda...not which ones to see but in what order, because I want to see all of them. I’ll let you arrange the order and break the news to Robert and Karen. It’s going to be a very Merry Christmas for everyone. • The Community Holiday Light Show at Ballou Park, December 12-27, is open Monday through Thursday 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Cost is $7 per vehicle. The Children’s Village, which is included in the price of admission, will be open until 9:00 p.m. through December 23.

She said He Said

Last year we waited in line for two and a half hours to see the lights at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons near WinstonSalem, North • To learn Carolina. more about That was one Photo by Chrismons, gorgeous show Michelle Dalton Photography. visit www. of lights. One chrismon. of the most org, call 434.792.5795 or visit interesting Ascension Lutheran Church, displays was in the Fisher Park 314 West Main Street. Visitation is neighborhood in Greensboro. There daily from December 6-24 from were thousands of chicken-wire7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sundays basket lights hanging from the 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and trees. It was a wonderland of color. 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There were Christmas scenes in several retirement homes in North • Country Christmas Lights is Carolina, particularly outside of located at 609 Ashland Road, Charlotte and in Burlington. Some Casville, North Carolina (MapQuest of them would like a donation of changes it to Rufﬁn). Drive on canned food to help people in need South Main Street (VA 86/NC86) but otherwise they are free to enjoy. until it intersects with Route 158. Turn right onto 158. Drive The Danville Riverview Rotary 10 miles to the ﬂashing caution Christmas parade is Sunday, light. Turn left onto Ashland December 6, at 3:00 p.m. and the Road. Display is 1.2 miles on the Greensboro parade is Saturday, left. It is open from dusk until December 5, at noon, rain or shine. 10:00 p.m. until New Year’s Day. Ascension Lutheran Church, 314 West Main Street, has the huge, live tree decorated with Chrismons and HE SAID well worth the time to view it and by Larry Oldham learn about its history. Danville also has the Community Holiday Light In the spirit of the Christmas Show in Ballou Park. Many churches season....YES DEAR! He Said / She Said can be found in Showcase Magazine.

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at the Danville Science Center. 677 Craghead St. Learn more at www.dsc.smv.org. Adam Goebel, Executive Director Danville Science Center The Danville Science Center is a community asset and Evince was happy to be part of the celebration. We look forward to the next 20 years and beyond.

To the editor: Lisa Nordan

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Jeanette Willia

Singing Ar ound the World an d Now at Home ��

The Voice of Readers To the editor: Thank you for the wonderful coverage of Danville Science Center‘s 20th Anniversary Celebration (November 2015 pages 30-31). DSC opened its doors in 1995. That was the year the space shuttle, Atlantis, rendezvoused with the Russian Mir Space Station, Scottish scientists were the ﬁrst to successfully clone sheep from embryos, and DVDs hit the market replacing VHS tapes. Reﬂecting back on those 20 years, the DSC has welcomed over a half million visitors, tripled its public exhibit space, doubled the program offerings

and opened Danville’s ﬁrst and only Digital Dome Theater. A number of events were planned to commemorate this milestone including a free community event in June that drew over 1,100 visitors, a special anniversary celebration for those that have contributed so much to its success over the past two decades and a recognition ceremony honoring eight highly dedicated volunteers who have been an active part of the organization since its inception (see picture). Just imagine where the DSC will be 20 years from now! We invite you to come discover your world

First Row: Margaret Wayland, Virginia Wiles, Sally Fuller, Carolyn Kent, Frances McMillan, Elsie Whitﬁeld. Bank Row: Budge Kent, Dillon Barnett

Thank you so much for the cover story and picture about our fundraiser concert at the Bachelors Hall Fire Department in the October issue. (Jeanette Williams: Singing Around the World and Now at Home, page 3) What an honor to be recognized by your ﬁne publication! The concert and pinto bean supper were well attended and loads of fun. Thanks to everyone who came out and for the many donations. This is an annual event, so we hope everyone can come back next year. As soon as the date is conﬁrmed, it will be posted on my website www.JeanetteWilliams.com. If anyone was unable to attend, but would like a sample of the music

provided, CDs are available on my website as well. They make great Christmas gifts. Thanks again for your support! Sincerely, Jeanette Williams We enjoyed the concert and listening to your music at home and in the car. Ironically, as we left the parking lot the evening of the concert, we heard you singing Mama Loved the Redbirds on the radio at 89.1. Another listener told me that on a different occasion she was driving in an unfamiliar place and became frightened. At that moment she heard you singing on the radio and it immediately calmed her. She arrived home safely. Thank you! 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.

If you missed any of the stories mentioned, they are still available at www.evincemagazine.com.

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December 2015

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Evince Magazine Page 7

Give Thanks for Good Teeth!

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Whitening for Life ��

April Swain at the YMCA using the chest press machine and ﬁnishing up her resistance workout.

Who Said It Would Be Easy? by Ciji Moore Education and Outreach Coordinator, Get Fit Dan River Region It’s 8:00 a.m. at the YMCA and April Swain is power walking the indoor track. She is putting in some work; her back is straight, she’s looking forward and her arms are in full swing! All this is happening while she is listening to music--something uplifting because this is her time for worship - a physical and spiritual experience. April says, “I know I look crazy, but I’m not concerned with what everyone else thinks. Gym time is for me to focus on me and to take care of myself.” She is absolutely right. The only way she is going to reach her goal of being healthy is to focus on herself and not what others are thinking. This journey of wanting to become healthy started when April decided to take control of her life. She had been living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine system disorder that affects women in their reproductive years. One of the many symptoms of PCOS is difﬁculty losing weight

and April has struggled with this for many years. It is much harder for her to lose weight because her body is working against her. She has to work twice as hard to lose the pounds, so working harder is what she does! With the support of her husband and daughter, April has lost 35 pounds since May. It’s not easy because she is also dealing with depression, anxiety, pain and fatigue on a daily basis as a result of PCOS. She controls it and does not let it control her. Her true blessing came 12 years ago when she gave birth to Jessica, her miracle baby. With PCOS, April wasn’t supposed to have children. April doesn’t expect to slow down anytime soon. She lives to help and inspire others. One thing we could learn from her is to never let anything hold us back from staying active -- it doesn’t have to be going to a gym, it’s all about moving! Just move.

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December 2015

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

Evince and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce want to encourage and recognize exceptional customer service. When someone gives you exceptional service, please let us know. In 300 words or less, tell us what happened. Email your story to joycewilburn@gmail.com or chamber@dpchamber.org. It’s a nice way to show appreciation for a job well done. We look forward to hearing from you. by Larry & Nancy Aaron When my wife, Nancy, and I decided to change phones, we went to the local Verizon retail store, 459 Mt. Cross Road, where Store Manager Ryland Davis and Sales Consultant Ernest Burchell made us feel very at ease and answered all our questions without any pushy sales pressure. We never felt rushed to make up our minds. When we decided on new phones and a different plan, they both went out of their way to explain every detail. When it came time to transfer data and photos from our old phones to our new ones, difﬁculties arose because of the differences between the systems, but both men worked diligently at different times over a couple days trying every option to solve the problems. Their assistance was so far beyond any accommodation that we were generally accustomed to receiving in these sort of transactions that Nancy and I talked later about their extraordinary service, which gave us a stress-free sales experience. I recommend Ryland Davis for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award and, although Ernest Burchell has previously been selected for this award and isn’t eligible to win again, his service was just as exceptional. Ernest Burchell won the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award in June 2012.

Evince Magazine Page 9 take you around the city and give a bit of history as you go. It’s affordable. It’s convenient. It’s crowded. The last time I saw that many poor, tired and huddled masses wasn’t on Ellis Island. It was at the exit gate at Disney World. Another service we tried worked by dialing all sevens. Since this digit is referenced so often in the Bible, I felt better when I used it. I prayed it would provide a safe haven, especially when we passed through sections that looked like Sodom and Gomorrah.

Diane Shelton and Kim take a quick selﬁe while riding the Hop-on, Hop-off tour bus.

Hop on the Bus, Gus Picture this: A sleek black limo slows down in the street. A stranger lowers a tinted glass window luring two women to crawl in. I watch HBO. I know how this story ends...or should have. Getting a ride has gone to hail. Time was that grabbing a taxi only required a hand wave from the curb, but not so anymore. Nowadays it’s slightly more complicated even if you’re standing in the middle of Times Square with yellow cars zooming about like bumble bees. We’re not world travelers by any means, but my sister, Diane, and I are fairly seasoned ones. We’ve been searched by airport security so often that my perception of the world has changed. When I see a busboy’s tub, my instinct is to remove my shoes and toss in my phone. On most trips, our ﬁrst stop is the AVIS counter. We’re used to commissioning something, not someone, to drive, so the idea of hired

transport was foreign to us. As it turns out, this was a critical piece to overlook while planning since we’d packed more into one weekend than Kirstie Alley’s togo box from an all-you-can-eat buffet. Which brings me back to our efforts to ﬁnd conveyance solutions in New York City. Buying a private ride is not simply a luxury, it’s expensive. It’s not only the fare you have to pay. It’s the gratuity. I handed out more tips on 5th Avenue than an insider trader on Wall Street. Locals prefer the underground option to get around, but we declined it, even after repeated assurances of safety. It didn’t matter to us what everyone said. We’re only comfortable in subways that make sandwiches. Finding the best option had a Goldilocks feel to it. Each day we’d try a different method to compare. The ﬁrst was a “hopon, hop-off” bus tour. These double-decker people-movers

Of all the choices, our favorite was something called Uber. Uber rhymes with goober and I really looked like one using it. This mobile app lets you pick the vehicle you want, schedule it, and prepay online. Unfortunately, the rules of Uber match those in real estate. It’s all about location, location, location, which is also the name of the setting that I had neglected to enable on my cell before I ordered a car. Until I made the change on my phone, the company didn’t know I was out-of-town. It thought I was somewhere in Danville near a

Burger King, not on Broadway at The Lion King. That meant the estimated fare to get me 500 miles away was $2,916. If that charge had accidentally gone to my credit card, the driver would have had to pick me up twice. Once from the address where I actually was and second from the curb where I had fainted. Here’s the most important rule I learned about an island that is only 13.4 miles long: how far away something is has nothing to do with how long it takes to get there. The bottom line is that meters run faster than you can walk, especially when they’re sitting still in a trafﬁc jam. Visit New York. See the sights. Enjoy the shows. Savor the food. There’s so much to see and do and how you get around is entirely up to you. Everything is practically a hop, skip or a jump. You can hop on a bus, skip down the sidewalk or jump into a car with a stranger. Just make sure that if you go with the last choice, you bring lots and lots of cash. These folks may be safe, but some will deﬁnitely take you for a ride.

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December 2015

Mercy ﬁction by Telisha Moore Leigg

“B

e so good, be as good as you can. That might be all there is for us; you know what I mean, little one?” Mandy Blue Eyes, not quite 30, said to me Christmas Eve in the house she had gotten for us. She had a cheap cell phone in one hand and some dog-eared pictures in the other hand. In the same hand as the pictures were a miniature plastic wise man and the baby Jesus from a small nativity scene. Mandy Blue Eyes sat next to, almost under, the Christmas tree she got from a thrift store. She was wearing a white nightgown from WalMart with purple ribbon around the neckline, her feet daintily tucked under the hem; her eyes gazed upward with some strange peace. And those passionate words might have gone over better if she wasn’t sloppy drunk and sitting in her own vomit. Maybe. Who can

tell? All there is, is the here and now, you know.

“Come on, Miss Mandy,” I said to Mandy Blue Eyes. (No one called her Mandy Blue Eyes to her face.) “I’ll help you to bed.” I pulled and pulled, and she just sat there in our rundown but new-to-us living room. And, at 14, I didn’t know what to do. Mama was resting in the next room. “Fallon, Marry Christmas,” Mandy Blue Eyes mispronounced solemnly as her head ﬂopped to the right. I almost smiled, looked out the window and saw some snow falling. Her name was never Mandy Blue Eyes; it wasn’t even Amanda. It was Anna-Margaret. I don’t know why folks started calling her Mandy Blue Eyes other than her eyes, and I don’t know why she never corrected those who called her Mandy. But I do know she saved us this Christmas, this Anna-Margaret who was weeping in the Christmas tree tinsel. Hell, she just plain saved Mama and me. We didn’t have nowhere to go after the shelter closed. She paid the rent. And if she wanted to live in the past perfect of her memories, we’d let her. We at least were not homeless. I knew about her babies, the ones her husband took, the ones she would never ﬁnd. Folks say it’s been months since her two babies were taken. But Mandy Blue Eyes talks when she’s drunk,

and so I know it’s been two years. I’ve seen the pictures, the little one with a missing tooth, and the older one with her mother’s eyes. So when I heard her sing Silent Night, Holy Night so beautifully, with such crisp hope in her clear soprano that was so pretty, I opened the door to Mama’s room so she could dream better. Outside it began to snow more than before. And there is such sweetness in the silence of the snow, in the silence of the sound outside the window of our home. Still, I couldn’t get her up from the ﬂoor. So I let her stay and I sat down beside her in the ﬁlth of her quiet little destruction, sat with her and our out-of-style big-bulb lights that came with the tree. I listened to Mandy Blue Eyes or Anna-Margaret or whatever God called her as she sang about what was holy and bright. She taught me both the fear and focus of mercy. “Merry Christmas. It’s going to be all right someday,” I whispered, and gave her a quick hug. And those passionate words might have gone over better if she wasn’t sloppy drunk and sitting in her own vomit. Maybe. Who can tell? All there is, is the here and now, you know.

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Photo by Rachel Garrison

Meditation Moment Giving the Most Precious Gift by Casey Molloy, RYT ‘Tis the time of year when we are bombarded with endless emotions, obligations, and hectic schedules. Amidst the ﬂurry of holiday parties, baking, and mingling, it is often optimistic to think that we might be able to save even a single second for ourselves. While entrenched in your to-do list, I invite you to consider an important aspect of the season at hand--the art of giving. Often we feel the pressure of consumerism from all angles, encouraging us to acquire the next best thing on the market. Naturally, we want to give gifts that our loved ones will enjoy and appreciate, and sometimes, even be impressed by. While it is nice to have the means to provide such gifts, they may not have a lasting impact. What is the most precious gift we can offer? I believe it is time. Time has become quite a commodity in our world today, and we often feel as though we don’t have nearly

enough of it. There are inﬁnite priceless moments in our lives that pass by us before we can even appreciate their existence. We forget that we are not living in the past or a moment into the future; the only moment we are truly alive is now. As we become older, this fact becomes more and more apparent. Last summer, my father gave me some wonderful advice. He said, “The most valuable thing in life is time. It is quickly spent and you can never get it back, so cherish it, and spend it wisely.” So when we give our time, it is important that we do so mindfully, allowing our attention to be centered in the present moment. Without tuning into this awareness, time will continue to pass us by. As you prepare gifts this year, perhaps you can add your presence to the list and create some special time for loved ones and your community. The effects are sure to be everlasting.

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December 2015

Get Fit Dan River Region wants you to think about whether or not what you eat when you dine out is healthy. Each month, Stephanie is going to report on local menu selections that are delicious and good for you. We’re all familiar with the saying, backdoor friends are best. No matter the reason or the season, they’re always welcome. And, while I strolled in the front door for my ﬁrst experience of the Back Door Bar and Grill, 1909 West Main Street, a friendly smile and

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Left: Derek Anderson presents his culinary versatility with two different Reuben specialties

Want to Eat Healthier? Just Ask.

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warm greeting from co-owner, Derek Anderson, let me know right off the bat that I was in for a treat. Bar food, you say? Leave your pre-conceived perceptions at

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by Stephanie Ferrugia Program Director, Get Fit Dan River Region the door (front and back)! You know you’ve arrived at a keeper when you ask for a menu item with a twist and the chef doesn’t bat an eye. That’s exactly what happened with Derek. I had heard the Reuben was to die for and inquired about a turkey version of this typically corned beef concoction. Trained at a culinary arts school in Charlotte, Derek disclosed that his corned beef is a labor of love and he makes the Thousand Island dressing himself. I was pleased that Derek was willing to oblige my turkey request. In the end, we compromised: He took at stab at preparing my bird-version sandwich and I tried his famous corned beef. Torn taste buds? Not a chance! You cannot go

Top Right: Sandwiches and burgers are a bargain. Go easy on your wallet and your waistline and opt out of the $3 fries and drink offering. Bottom Right: Regular customer and local business owner, John Mason, and Steve Draper of newly opened men’s clothier, Draper and Ferrell on West Main Street, enjoy lunch at the Back Door Bar and Grill.

wrong with either style Reuben, although your waistline will like the turkey. Top this experience off with familiar faces who poured in through, of course, the back door, and we’ll stamp this visit a Team Get Fit success. The Back Door Bar and Grill aims to please and promises that sense of belonging only backdoor guests can truly get away with to savor the moment and the season. Avoid my rookie mistake and choose the right namesake door. Also, try that Turkey Reuben. Finally, while you’re at it, please thank Derek for his ﬂexibility and creativity to pepper-in ways customers can eat healthier. The restaurant world needs more chefs like him!

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December 2015

oe Scott was just tagging along with a friend who was looking to purchase a historically significant North Main Street house, when the realization hit Joe that he didn’t want his friend to buy it. There was nothing wrong with the structure, just the opposite. Joe wanted it. “I couldn’t pass it up,” he exclaims and then lists the obvious reasons why. “It’s a 145-year old home on an acre of land in the city with an in-ground pool and a greenhouse in the backyard,” says the Danville native who loves antiques and shopping at estate sales and auctions. Derek Anderson, who partnered with him on the purchase, chimes in, “It also has a 30’x 50’patio with a built-in fire pit. Those are the big perks buyers look for in a house.” Even more important than the amenities the house offered was the history that came with it. “I’ve always been a history buff,” admits Derek, adding, “The town I lived in while studying at culinary school in Italy was 1,200 years old and my house was 900 years old.” Compared to that, the North Main Street house is young, but the fact that Carson Davenport, one of Danville’s most famous artists, once lived there gives it a certain charm. Joe continues, “The day I walked in for the first time I could see myself here. We’ve been here 2 1⁄2 years and I just love it. There’s nothing I would change about it.” Finding careers they both liked was just as serendipitous as finding the right home. Derek’s three-month experience studying abroad and subsequent classes at the The Art Institute of Charlotte in North Carolina led to graduation in 2011 and a move back home to Halifax County. For a few years, Derek couldn’t decide on the next step and then an offer was made that he summarizes by saying, “If I hadn’t taken the opportunity, I would have regretted it.” The owner of the Back Door Bar & Grill on West Main Street was ready to sell. “I had just about given up on the restaurant business because it meant working 60-70 hours a week and on holidays and having no social life,” he says. Joe picks up the story, “The offer was too good to pass up. The previous owner closed on a Tuesday and we opened on

Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography Derek and Joe hang a watercolor by Carson Davenport for the DHS Holiday Tour. Davenport spent summers on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and many of his paintings were scenes of the island landscapes. This watercolor is on loan from Patricia Maurakis.

Joe Scott and Derek Anderson

Opening Doors in Danville by Joyce Wilburn

Wednesday.” Reﬂecting on The Back Door’s sometimes dubious reputation over its 35-40 year history, Joe continues, “We want to make it a safe, clean place, and a better place for people to come to. We are trying to give the community something nice. We

are doing the same thing here on North Main Street.” With that in mind, the former Carson Davenport home (and once the location of Styles by Charles on the lower level) will be one of 15 sites on the 2015

Danville Historical Society Holiday Tour. Six rooms will be open and decked for the holidays. “There will be an 11-foot live tree with vintage Christmas decorations in the foyer,” says Joe, already making plans for the 43rd annual community event. Other rooms will display Danville memorabilia, a Carson Davenport painting, and collections of Williamsburg pottery, Hull pottery, and Virginia Metalcrafters brass dating from 1890-1960. With unfailing community spirit, Derek and Joe are looking forward to opening the front door at 823 North Main Street for history-loving tour takers and The Back Door at 1909 West Main Street for food-loving customers. • For more information about the DHS Holiday Tour, see the ad on page 8. • The Back Door Bar & Grill, 1909 West Main Street, was originally known as The Back Door Deli when the front of the building was a grocery store. The deli entrance was the back door, hence the name. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 434.792.7942. • A New Year’s Eve party is planned at The Back Door Bar & Grill with a 1970s disco theme.

This table in the dining room was made by Goodwill from reclaimed wood salvaged from the razed Dan River Mills Schoolﬁeld buildings.

Evince Magazine Page 15 an art school in Danville for a brief period and worked as a commercial artist in New York. In 1960, Davenport fulﬁlled a long-time dream by establishing the Chincoteague Summer School of Painting.

Carson Davenport

Local Artist with an International Reputation Crystal Gregory

ominating the public space in Chatham’s post office is a huge mural. From it, resolute faces of farmers reflect the agrarian heritage of Pittsylvania County. In this masterpiece, artist Carson Davenport captures the essence of their accomplishment – satisfaction of the harvest is muted by the steadfast effort that produced it. Davenport, who was nationally renowned for his art, was Chair of Averett University’s Art Department from 1943 until his retirement in 1969. A native of Danville, he attended the city’s public schools and Stratford College. Additional training opportunities took him farther from home; he studied at the Corcoran School in Washington, D. C.; the Grand Central School of Art and the Eastport Summer Art Colony in Maine; the Bok Foundation’s Research Studio in Maitland, Florida and – very importantly for this region – the John Ringling School in Sarasota, Florida. In 1936 while in Sarasota, Davenport received a commission from the United States Postal Service to paint Harvest Season in Southern Virginia for Chatham’s post office. By the time Davenport painted this mural, he already had begun

to acquire a national reputation. In 1932 he exhibited his work at the Art League in Washington, D. C., and in 1934 he took part in an exhibition sponsored by the Corcoran Gallery. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt attended the Corcoran exhibit and admired Davenport’s depiction of the harsh life endured by women from the Blue Ridge region of Virginia. She chose the watercolor, Pioneer Women, to hang in the White House. During the course of his career, Davenport was lauded for his watercolors, oils, etchings and engravings, pastels, murals, and printed cards. Many, including the lithograph Stony Mill Virginia that was exhibited at the 1939-1940 World’s Fair, depict American scenes; others focus on natural subjects such as marine landscapes and the wild ponies of Chincoteague Island. In 1964, the Alabama Watercolor Society awarded him a prize for his painting Wild Pony Fete. Davenport described his style as an “attempt to stimulate the brilliance of the color of mosaic, as Roualt was inﬂuenced by the brilliance of the colors of stained glass.” For over three decades Davenport painted, exhibited, and taught. In addition to his tenure at Averett, he was the director of

the Depression-era WPA Art School and Gallery in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. He also operated

Although Davenport retired from Averett in 1969 and died in 1972, his legacy endures. His works are included in public and private collections throughout the country. Two additional murals hang in the post ofﬁce in Greensboro, Georgia. He is represented in galleries such as the Knoedler in New York, the Smithsonian and the White House in Washington DC, and the Virginia Museum and the Valentine Museum in Richmond. Locally, the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History and Averett University have collections of his work. • Davenport Hall, a residence hall on the Averett University campus, is named for Carson Davenport. • Davenport Street, which intersects North Main Street, is named in honor of the Davenport family.

Page 16

December 2015

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18.

Tuesday, December 1 – Thursday, December 31

Donations for Dollars

Bring new, unopened donations of unexpired, non-perishable items to to the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street, and support House of Hope and the Danville Area Humane Society. House of Hope Library Staff Wanda Yeatts, offers a safe overnight stay, Vera Sturdivant, Barbara Barnhardt, hot meals, and a variety and Samone Chaney ﬁll a box for Donations for Dollars. of support services to the area’s homeless. The Danville Area Humane Society provides rescue and temporary care to lost, stray, and abandoned animals. The library accepts toiletries, paper products, laundry detergent, pet treats, and pet food. Items can be donated at 511 Patton Street or the Westover Branch Library, 94 Clifton Street. For every item donated, the library will waive $1 from overdue ﬁnes on late library materials up to $15 per library account. Call 434.799.5195 for more information or visit www.readdanvilleva.org (submitted by Trena Taylor)

Saturday, December 5

From These Hands: A Christmas Bazaar

Forest Lawn Baptist Church, 1816 West Main Street, is hosting a handcrafted/handmade ﬁne arts and crafts event in its fellowship hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Artisans from Virginia/North Carolina areas will sell their goods. Many are award-winning. Chili and other baked items will be sold during lunch time. For more information visit Facebook and search From These Hands: A Christmas Bazaar or call 434.548.5544. (submitted by Denise Wyatt)

Saturday, December 5

Holiday Celebration DSO Concert

This year’s concert will feature the 60member Danville Symphony Orchestra, the Danville Area Choral Arts Society (DACAS) with 30+ vocalists, and a 75-strong children’s chorus from Twin Springs Elementary School. Holiday Celebration will begin at 8:00 p.m. in the George Washington High School Auditorium, 701 Broad Street. The public is invited at no charge, thanks to generous donors who support the DSO’s event expenses, but please bring donations for God’s Storehouse Food Bank. (submitted by Mary Franklin)

Saturday, December 5

Christmas on the Plaza

From 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., the River District Association and the City of Danville will host this celebration of decorating and lighting Main Street Plaza at the intersection of Main and Craghead Streets. Sip hot chocolate and enjoy music of the season by Dulci Jubilo, Epiphany Episcopal School & Church Children’s Choir, and the duo, Brandon Meadows and Allison Shelton. Donate a new, unwrapped toy to the Salvation Army and receive a commemorative tree ornament. Donors

will be entered into prize drawings for a $100 gift certiﬁcate to Golden Leaf Bistro, jewelry from Commonwealth Silver & Goldsmiths, and gift certiﬁcates to Dell’Anno’s Pizza Kitchen and Jackie’s Beauty Supply. Also, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Brewed Awakening, 610 Craghead Street, will host Stories with Santa. Santa and his elf will read stories, including Tiny the Tree: A Christmas Story. Its author and illustrator, Mary Clark Dalton and Stacy Moody, will be signing books from noon until 4 p.m. For more information, call 434.709.3674. (submitted by Ernecia Coles)

Sunday, December 6

Christmas Concert in Chatham

The Chatham Concert Series continues with Christmas Favorites, featuring soprano Leslie Mabe accompanied by the strings and keyboard of the Rainier Trio: violinist Kevin Matheson, violinist Bryan Matheson, and pianist Brenda Wittwer. The program will include both classical and popular songs of the season, from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker to Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, and will conclude with a spirited Christmas carol sing-along. Chat with the musicians at the post-concert reception. Concert starts at 3:00 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)

Monday, December 7

African American Voices Book Club

The Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street, is introducing a new book club that welcomes everyone. Library information specialist and co-president of the AfroAmerican Historical and Genealogical Society, Danielle Pritchett, will host the book club. Deirdre Hampton Mebane of Greensboro, North Carolina, the author of two books of poetry, will be the guest speaker from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Deirdre in the Genealogy Room. For more Hampton Mebane information, call 434.799.5195 x 8, Option 1. (submitted by Trena Taylor)

Tuesday, December 8

Decorating the Trees for a Cause Open House

This non-proﬁt program sponsored by the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) raises money for local causes and charities. Participants set up and decorate a tree in honor of a chosen non-proﬁt organization. Community members vote for their favorite tree or charity by giving a monetary donation. All participants receive 100% of the donations given for their trees. The tree that raises the most money will receive a $1,300 bonus. The second place tree will receive $800 and third place $400. Third place will be determined by a random drawing of all other participants. The IALR, 150 Slayton Avenue, will host the Open House from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Trees can be viewed Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until December 22. View the trees and enjoy lunch in Megabytes Café. Lunch is served Monday through Friday between 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.ialr. org/conference/menu. (submitted by Melany Stowe)

Thursday, December 10

Danville History Spirits Tour

From 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. enjoy an evening of local history education and spirits! A spirited social will kick off the evening with a tour of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street, followed by a guided historical trolley tour through Danville with local

Evince Magazine Page 17 history lover, Ina Dixon. To register, call 434.799.5150 or visit www. playdanvilleva.com. Danville Parks & Recreation Program No. 10807. Cost is $15. (submitted by Ina Dixon)

Friday, December 18 – Sunday, December 20

What in the Dickens Happened to Scrooge ?

The Little Theatre of Danville will present this hilarious adult Christmas comedy at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at The Schoolﬁeld Museum and Cultural Center, 917 West Main Street. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door or online at www.danvillelittletheatre.org Cookies and holiday punch will be served. (submitted by Alice Saunders)

Sunday, December 20

Harp Beneﬁt Recital

Katherine Elizabeth Campbell, a UNC music student, will be presenting a harp recital to beneﬁt the Danville Salvation Army starting at 4:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army, 123 Henry Street, in Danville. The concert is free and open to the public. Monetary donations would be greatly appreciated and are tax deductible. (submitted by Melanie Campbell) Photo by Emily Chafetz

Upcoming

Friday, January 15, 2016 Corks & Forks

The Danville Science Center’s annual fundraiser will be held from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Taste wines from around the world, specialty beers and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Participate in a live auction of trips to Ireland, Tuscany, Cabo San Lucas, Sonoma, Key West and New York City. Tasting wines and beers will be available by the glass/bottle for $5.00 each. Tickets are $50 per person. All proceeds beneﬁt the educational programs at the DSC. For more information, call 434.791.5160. (submitted by Adam Goebel)

Saturday, January 30, 2016

Spring to Green Gardening for Southside

Hosted by the Danville Master Gardeners and Virginia Cooperative Extension, the sixth annual event will be held at The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, 150 Slayton Avenue, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Jessica Walliser will speak on Attracting Beneﬁcial Bugs to Your Garden and share lessons learned in her own garden in Grow Organic - Making the Transition. Jennifer received her degree in horticulture from the Pennsylvania State University, taught for over 20 years, owned an organic market garden and is a proliﬁc writer. Her books will be available for purchase. Stephanie Cohen, an awardwinning communicator, author and teacher is also on the program. Registration fee of $45 is due by January 15. For more information call 434.799.6558 or visit www.danvillemastergardeners.org. (submitted by Janet Aponte)

Page 18

December 2015

December Calendar Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row & Holbrook Street. $8; free for children 12 & younger. www.danvillehistory.org. 434.770.1974. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History (DMFAH) self-guided audiovisual tours. Danville & Pittsylvania Co. Public Library Events. See page 25. Tai-Chi Day Classes - Increase strength, balance, ﬂexibility and progress at your own pace. M 11:15am-12:15pm or 5:456:45pm; W 3:30-4:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216. Let’s Dance – Learn new dances, make new friends and have loads of fun. Veteran dance instructor, Donna Robbins, teaches a variety of dances in a fun atmosphere. A partner is not necessary.Adults 18+. Tues. 7-8:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216. 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 – Providing a great workout and cultural awareness with live drumming and energetic dancing. Kids M/TH 5:30pm; Adults M 67:30pm. 434.797.8848. Prime Time Fitness - Low-impact aerobics workout with a mix of various fun dance steps. Tu/Th 9:30-11am. Coates Rec. Center. 434.797.8848. 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. 434.797.8848. Art with Flo – Wet on wet technique of oil painting. Ages 18+. W 9:30-11:30am, 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 – Uptempo, high energy class. M/W 8:15-9:15am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. Baby Boomer Style Work Out – Walking, cardio activity & weight training designed for older adults.

Tu/Th 9-10:30am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. Ballou Jammers - Acoustic musical jamboree. Bring a stringed instrument or just listen. TH 3-5pm. 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.

Thru December

Classic Christmas Films -On the big screen. Visit Facebook, www.TheNorthTheatre.com or call the box ofﬁce for movies and times. Historic North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

Thru January 3

Falling Back Exhibit – Danville Art League’s annual juried exhibition. This play on words alludes to a time for all to put down electronic devices and return to the joy and appreciation of creative works. The show includes paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolor, photography/digital photography, graphite and charcoal drawings, ceramics, jewelry and more. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

December 1

Danville Toastmasters Toastmasters members improve their communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. 6-7:15 pm. American National University. 434.793.1431.

December 1 & 3

Introduction to Genealogical Research. See page 25. Job Corps Information Session Job Corps helps young adults learn a career, earn a high school diploma, and gain real world skills needed to succeed. 10:30am12:30pm. Workforce Development Center. 434.455.2521.

December 1 (thru 29)

Crochet Corner. See page 25.

December 1 (thru 31)

Exploring Virginia - featuring many specimens and artifacts from Virginia’s past and present. Virginia Museum of Natural History. 276.634.4141. Donations for Dollars. See page 16.

December 2

Christmas at Ballou – “Reminisce” with JC and Millie. A light lunch with punch will be served and you will receive a holiday gift. 12-2pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

December 3

Throw Paint at Cancer. – This free peer-to-peer support program for cancer patients and survivors helps them express themselves through art. Eight-week session. 4-6pm. 434.421.3060.

December 4-6, 11-13

A Christmas Carol - Classic story by Charles Dickens. In partnership with Halifax County Little Theatre. Times vary. The Prizery. 434.572.8339.

December 4 (thru 13)

Elf Jr. The Musical - Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity featuring local youth and directed by Mimi Johnson Grubb. Elf The Musical JR is a production of the North Star Theatre Project which has brought you Disney’s Aladdin Jr, The Lion King Jr and Beauty and the Beast Jr, Fiddler on the Roof Jr and Godspell. Dec. 4 & 11 - 7:30pm; Dec. 5, 12 & 13 - 2:30pm; Dec. 6 6pm. Historic North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

December 4

Casino Royale - casino games, photo ops, rafﬂes, drawings, and dancing! black-tie optional. Ticket includes $5,000 in complimentary chips. Hosted by Danville after Hours Rotary. Open to the public, age 21+ The Trees for the Cause fundraiser will be open during the event.7-11pm. Institute Conference Center, 150 Slayton Avenue Yack & Snack Book Club. See page 25. Shana Tucker Chamber Soul: A Different Kind of Christmas. 7:30pm. Kirby Theater. 336.597.1709. Christmas Tree Lighting - A children’s choir will sing carols as the Christmas tree is lit. 5pm. Municipal Building on Patton Street.

December 5

Danville Symphony Orchestra Concert. See page 16. Christmas on the Plaza. See page 16. Holiday Market - Handmade crafts, homemade food, locally grown Christmas trees, and more. 8am-2pm. Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961. From These Hands – A Christmas Bazaar. See page 16.

December 2015 S

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

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. All other supplies are included. Adults 18+.10:30am3:30pm. Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216. Christmas Open House Refreshments and specials will be available throughout the day. 10am-5pm.Uptown Martinsville. Afternoon Tea - Meet the characters from the Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol while enjoying English delicacies. Period music and clothes will round out this seasonal event Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History. 434.572.9200.

December 5 (thru 27)

The Magic of Christmas Stage Spectacular - This live show stars Celebrity Magician and World Champion Illusionist Wayne Alan. It is an exciting yet heart warming magic and illusion show themed around Christmas full of family fun with not only amazing magic but also great music, including many of your favorite sacred and secular holiday songs. This year’s show features Special Guest Star Frederico Cardella, world famous tenor. This wonderful show is inspired by the famous Christmas show at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Christianity, the real meaning of Christmas, is woven throughout the show which closes with a dramatic and moving living nativity on stage. Dec. 5, 12, 19 & 26 - 7:30pm; Dec. 16 - 10am; Dec. 27 - 2:30pm. Historic North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

December 6

Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade – Christmas Magic Rison & Broad Streets to Main & Craghead Streets. 3:00 pm. Danville Ugly Sweater/Jingle Bell Fun Run – prior to the beginning of the Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade. Main & Broad Streets A Moravian Lovefeast. 7pm. Moseley Memorial United Methodist Church. 757.513.0496 or 434.334.7411. Christmas Concert in Chatham. See page 16. Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops - Featuring over 200 musicians, the Symphony’s performance will include holiday

The deadline for the January issue is Tuesday, December 15, at 5:00 p.m. Please send just the basic information following the format on these pages.

Evince Magazine Page 19 classics, a carol sing-a-long and performances by Midwest Emmy®winning soprano, Adrienne Danrich.7pm. Martinsville High School Auditorium.

December 6 (thru 24)

Chrismons Tree Viewing. See She Said He Said on page 4.

December 7 (thru 28)

African American Voices Book Club. See page 16 and 25.

December 7

Quizzo Night - Join Danville by Choice at 2 Witches, 209 Trade Street, for a fun trivia competition beginning at 5:30 p.m. Come with a team (four maximum per team) or alone. No need to have a team. Danville by Choice is a group for anyone who loves living in Danville.

December 8

Introduction to FindAGrave. com. See page 25. Decorating the Trees for a Cause. See page 16.

December 10

Christmas Gift Wrapping Party. See page 25. Danville History Spirits Tour. See page 16. 2nd Thursday Science Talk Dinosaurs and Life Thereafter Dinosaur extinction: what took their place and what was the world like after dinosaurs? Dr. Alex Hastings, Assistant Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology hosts. 6-7pm. VMNH. 276.634.4141.

December 11

Christmas Ball - Wear your best holiday attire. Light refreshments. 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Luminary Trail Walk - Celebrate the season with a candlelight walk along the Riverwalk while listening to beautiful holiday music. Warm festive refreshments will be served. 6-8pm. Main Street Plaza. 434.799.5150.

December 12

Family Zen. 9:30-10:30am Danville Public Library, Auditorium 511 Patton Street. $5 adults, children under 16 free with parents. 434.429.5824. Zip Line - Winter Express - Cold zip-line rides followed by warm hot chocolate is a great way to get your Saturday going. Ages 8+. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.11-12:30pm. Skate Park. 434.799.5150.

December 12 & 13

to be even better. Times vary. Ballou Park. 434.793.4636.

December 15

Utilizing Court Records to Guide Genealogical Research. See page 25.

December 17

Zip Line - Reindeer Night Flight - Imagine that you are at the North Pole ﬂying with the reindeer as you ride the zip line. Enjoy this night zip line adventure with lights to illuminate your way. Ages 8+ Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 7-8:30pm. Skate Park. 434.799.5150.

December 18, 19 & 20

What in the Dickins Happened to Scrooge? See page 17.

December 18

Painting with Pepper - After just three hours in this acrylic painting class, you will create a piece of art. All materials are included and light refreshments will be served. Whether you have painted before or this is new to you, artist Pepper Martin will guide your artistic talents.1-4pm. Ballou Annex 434.799.5216. TAC Christmas Ball - Piedmont Arts Teen Arts Council members and their guests are invited to celebrate the holidays at a semiformal Christmas dance with a DJ.7-10pm. Piedmont Arts. Martinsville 276.632.3221. Art Walk - Enjoy art, food, music and fun along Martinsville’s historic streets. Over 20 galleries, restaurants and shops will be open. 5-7pm. Donna Strother Deekens Concert/Talk - Donna Strother Deekens will be singing live on our stage and talking about her days playing the role of a “Snow Queen” for many years with “The Real Santa” at the Miller & Rhoads downtown department store in Richmond from 1971 – 1989, and also at Thalhimers, from 1990 – 1991. She is the author of four books and will be signing books after her show followed by a classic Christmas ﬁlm. 7pm. Historic North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

December 19

Youth Curator Camp. 10am3pm. VMNH. 276.634.4141.

December 20

Beneﬁt Harp Recital. See page 17.

December 31

Danville Holiday Tour - 15 sites highlighting the residences and businesses in the River District that are above the ground ﬂoor, in addition to a mansion, churches and other residences on the ground level. 1-5pm. www.danvillehistory. org. See stories on page 3 and 14 and ad on page 8.

New Year’s Eve Party – Featuring Yarn, Martinsville’s favorite band. The Times Square ball dropping can be viewed on the big screen TV at Rives Theatre. 276.3403.0872.

December 12 (thru 27)

Inspiration & Intuition.– An exhibition of art works by Robert York and Nancy Diciolla. Opening reception1/10, 1-3pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

Community Holiday Light Show The show is made up entirely of displays created by the community. Over 5,000 people attended in 2014 and this year’s event promises

Upcoming January 10 (thru March 13)

Page 20

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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 IHOP on Piedmont Drive Joe & Mimma’s Karen’s Hallmark @ Danville Mall Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s URW Credit Union Western Sizzlin YMCA

Main & West Main Street/Downtown/ River District Area

American National Bank Brewed Awakening on Craghead Street 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) Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market on Chambers Street Rippe’s

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 Pizza

Memorial Drive

Frank’s Pizza Ginger Bread House

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

3 Women Consignment Bistro 1888 Halifax County Public Library O’ Sole Mio on Bill Tuck Hwy. South Boston Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts & History Southern Virginia Higher Education The Prizery Toots Creek Antiques Mall

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Crossroads Family Restaurant

In Martinsville

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

In Yanceyville, NC

Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store The Venice Restaurant

Danville Area Humane Society volunteer.

Service Is the Rent We Pay by Alexis Ehrhardt During the holiday season, many of us gravitate towards service by giving our time, talents or treasure. We make end-of-year financial gifts, donate food, or perhaps support children through an Angel Tree program. Marian Wright Edelman once wrote, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” So what would our region look like if each of us adopted this philosophy? What if we all gave at the holiday level every day of the year? Time and again, I hear people offer reasons that they cannot serve: they’re not strong enough, not young enough, not wealthy enough, or they just simply don’t have the time. However, if we reflect on Edelman’s words, the goal should be to embed service into our daily lives. Why do we treat service as an add-on instead of a natural part of life? Since the establishment of the Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness (CCECC) in July 2014, Averett University has been creating opportunities for those in the Dan River Region to serve, building on the work of our schools, non-profits, and the faith-based community.

Our hope is to change the conversation about volunteerism and transform our culture into one where service is the norm. We all have the power to change our community through service, from small actions like holding a door open to more intentional activities like mentoring a child. No matter your interest, abilities, or income level, there are opportunities for you to serve in our region. There are one-time activities, like the community Christmas dinner, as well as ongoing opportunities at organizations like God’s Storehouse and the Dan River Basin Association. By joining Rotary, Kiwanis, or other groups, you can serve your community on a weekly basis and connect with like-minded community members. The opportunities are limitless, as is the potential impact. As a community, let us hit the reset button on service and make it part of our daily lives. An array of volunteer opportunities can be found at www.engage. averett.edu. When you serve, share it with @engageaverett and use #365daysofservice. This holiday season, and every day beyond that, let us remember Edelman’s words and make service our purpose.

Evince Magazine Page 21

Organizing Your Day Is a Source of Power by Carollyn Peerman “If not today—when?” is a Kashmiri saying. “Life is short,” is my saying. The hours ﬂy by and I want to grab hold of them and make them stay. Seize the moment and make it captive to my commands. Sometimes in the evening, I write a list of the things I want to accomplish the next day. Then the next morning as the day goes by, I have the pleasure of checking off each completed task until there are none remaining. I experience the joy of accomplishment. At the end of the day, if I haven’t completed a task, I put it on the top of the list for the next day. Organizing my time is a source of power. There is a Korean saying, Put off for one day and ten days will pass. Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow is often the busiest day of the week. When tomorrow ﬁnally arrives, it is today. Why not learn to pack more into today with concentrated thought? “Time...it is the most precious commodity in the world and should be lavished on those we care most about,” wrote Sydney J. Harris. With the better use of time there will be more opportunity to shower attention on loved ones and their needs. Play time is the secret of perpetual youth. Taking time to make friends is the road to happiness; taking time to

read is the fountain of wisdom; taking time to work is the price of success. Why not make time to give? A day is too short to be selfish. Be sure to laugh because laughter is music and refreshment for the soul. Above all, take time to pray. Remember the words of Lord Alfred Tennyson: “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” Early in the morning is my time to meditate and think. As the dawn breaks, my mind is fresh and new with the day before me. What could be more terrible than activity without thought? I must use my mind first and then do the work. My Bible is beside me waiting for instructions. As long as I don’t take my existence for granted but realize in the depths of my being that my existence is unfathomably mysterious and precious, then my thought begins its climb upward and then outward. Time has been given for me to use in view of eternity. To lengthen my days I can rise early; in the quiet I can accomplish activities of the highest priority and watch the sun come up. If I take care of the little humble minutes of my time, then the hours will take care of themselves. The minutes are like little drops of water or little grains of sand that will make a mighty ocean of days, weeks, and years. Together the years make up my lifetime that is flying by and will soon be gone.

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December 2015

Spring to Green

Gardening for Southside

by Archer McIntire

y late January I am so tired of cold weather and the winter landscape that I spend hours thumbing through seed catalogs, researching new plants on the Internet and visiting garden centers. A rite of passage for me has become attending Spring to Green: Gardening for Southside - formerly called a Horticulture Symposium. That term really doesn’t do it justice. It is more than a stodgy symposium and the new name better describes the 2016 event, scheduled for Saturday, January 30, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. Presented by the Danville Master Gardeners in partnership with Virginia Cooperative Extension, Spring to Green will have some new features: a continental breakfast and a buffet luncheon (gone are the box lunches). Also new in 2016 --the Learning Center featuring: tree care and pruning, composting and worm farming, growing and storing herbs, edible ﬂowers, beekeeping, fairy gardens, straw bale gardening, gardening with children, care of garden tools and hypertufa. The Learning Center will offer a great opportunity to ask questions and talk with experts. Once again there

will be a number of vendors offering garden tools, supplies, decorative items and plants. The two keynote speakers, Jessica Wallister, horticulturist, author and a self-declared bug lover, and Stephanie Cohen, award-winning communicator, author and teacher, bring years of experience and horticulture education to attendees. Their books will be available for purchase and signing. I’m especially looking forward to hearing Stephanie’s presentation, The Perennial Diva’s Best and Worst List. The registration fee is $45.00 (must be postmarked by January 15th). Gift certificates are available. They are designed by Danville Master Gardener, Janet Aponte, and include a beautiful handmade envelope, a truly elegant gift for that special gardener in your life! Download the Spring to Green registration form at danvillemastergardener.org or call the VCE office 434.799.6558. Gift Certificates also can be ordered by calling the same number. Brochures with more information are available at most local garden centers. Hope to see you there!

Evince Magazine Page 23

Page 24

December 2015

Book Clubbing Reviews by Diane Adkins

The Opposite House and Impossible Bottle by Claudia Emerson

Headwaters by Ellen Bryant Voigt

Pittsylvania County can be said to be many things: an agricultural community known for tobacco production; the largest county in the Commonwealth; cradle of world-renowned poets. If you doubt me, read on. Poet Claudia Emerson was born and raised in Chatham. In her vibrant career, she taught at the University of Mary Washington and then, in 2013, joined the faculty of Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2006 she won the Pulitzer Prize in poetry for her collection Late Wife. She was the 2008-2010 Virginia’s Poet Laureate. Sadly, the world lost her a year ago to cancer. Despite the world-wide acclaim, Emerson remained who she had always been—a beautiful and generous human being who was happy to come home to Chatham (her mother still lives here) and give a speech at the library. Having a conversation with her, even for the first time, was like talking to an old friend, picking up where we might have left off a few years before. She was comfortable in her own skin and removed all barriers that the accolades could easily have constructed between her and her hometown folks. Since her death, Louisiana State University Press has released two final volumes of her work. The first, The Opposite House, focuses on aging and loss. Impossible Bottle, the most recently released, is a series of reflections on her cancer treatment. She never shrinks from the personal, and never sugarcoats her experience. Nonetheless, the books both resound with the everyday, with life’s small details keenly observed. If having a Pulitzer Prize winner in our DNA was not enough to swell the county’s collective head, a couple of months back we discovered another of our own, Ellen Bryant Voigt, had been awarded the MacArthur Fellowship that is commonly known as the “genius grant.” Voigt also grew up in Chatham and her sister still lives here. She, too, has been a Poet Laureate, in the state of Vermont. She’s taught at Warren Wilson College for many years, and previously at Iowa Wesleyan, Goddard College, and MIT. Her poetry often has been described as elegiac. Headwaters, however, is a departure from her previous volumes; for one thing, she leaves the world of punctuation and capitalization behind. The reader has fewer signposts by which to make the way through, and yet the collection is firmly rooted in a view of the natural world, the past, and small-town life that will be very familiar. The volumes of these two accomplished women are remarkable and the finely distilled language each uses reveals more to the reader at each encounter. Don’t just be proud in the abstract. Read them. Savor the language. See that, yes indeed, they are from around here. Diane S. Adkins is the Director of the Pittsylvania County Public Library System, with libraries in Gretna, Chatham, Mt. Hermon, and Brosville/Cascade, along with an award-winning bookmobile service. Check it all out at www.pcplib.org. Send information about what you or your book club is reading to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

Evince Magazine Page 25

Pittsylvania County Public Libraries

What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania Co. and Danville Public Libraries

Special Events:

• Food for Fines: Through December 18. One can of nonperishable food equals $1 waived in ﬁnes. Proceeds beneﬁt Northern Pittsylvania County Food Bank and Danville Humane Society. • Write a letter to Santa: December 2; Gretna. • Book Sale: begins December 21, Brosville • Story Time Holiday Party: For children ages 0—5. December 21, 11:00—11:45 a.m., Chatham. Registration required.

Preschool Early Literacy Programs:

• Book Talk: December 11, noon, Brosville. Read a holiday book. Bring your favorite Christmas entrée or dessert. Open to adults.

Food, Nutrition, Fitness and Health Programs:

• Wednesdays for Wees: December 2, 9, and 16, 10:00 a.m., Chatham, Brosville, Gretna, Mt. Hermon. newborn to 5. • Read To Maggie the Therapy Dog: December 2, 9, and 16, 4:00-4:45 p.m., Chatham. Maggie provides a loving ear for young or struggling readers to practice reading aloud. Ages 5-15. • Mother Goose on the Loose: December 4, 11, and 18 at 10:30 a.m, Mt. Hermon; December 7 and 14, 11:00 a.m., Chatham. Birth to age 2 and their caregivers. • Christmas Story Time: December 7, 7:00 p.m., Gretna. Wear your pajamas if you like. • Afterschool Christmas Story Time and Craft: December 14, 3:30 p.m., Gretna. • Hermon’s Stories: December 17, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon.

• Group Fitness: December 7 and 14, 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Gretna; December 3, 10, and 17 at 10:00 a.m., Gretna. Join us as we exercise and get fit together; ages 18+ Free. • Recipe Club: December 8, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. Christmas Cookie Exchange: bake five dozen cookies, packaged into bags of six and bring them along with the recipe. Participants will leave with a variety of five dozen cookies. • Recipe Exchange Club: December 10, 6:00 p.m., Brosville. - Bring your favorite dessert and the recipe. We’ll sample everyone’s dish and exchange recipes. • Cookie Exchange: December 17, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon. Bring two dozen of your favorite cookies along with the recipe to share with your friends and neighbors.

Homeschoolers:

Art & Craft Programs:

• Connection: December 1 and 15, 2:00 p.m., Gretna. Learn what the library has to offer homeschoolers and network with other parents while children enjoy crafts, activities, and special presentations. Register at 434.656.2579.

STEAM Saturday

• December 5, 11:00—1:00 p.m., Chatham. Ages 8-15. Building challenges with Keva planks.

Computers:

• Computer 1 on 1: Personal tutorials on basic computer skills. Wednesdays, December 2, 9, and 16, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Chatham. Open to all. • Computer Class: December 15, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m., Brosville. Learn basics of using a computer and how to search for information online. Space is limited. Registration required.

Book Discussions & Writing:

• What’s New: December 9, 9:00 a.m., Brosville. Join us for coffee and discuss what’s new in ﬁction and nonﬁction. • Second Thursday Discussion Group: December 10, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.., Chatham. Organic Wesley by Bill Guerrant. Open to adults.

• Open Needlework: December 1 and 15, 10:00 a.m., Brosville. Knitting, embroidery, crochet. Work on your projects with friends. • 12 Days of Craftmas: December 1, 5:00-6:00 p.m., Chatham. Sock Snowman. December 3, 5:00—6:00 p.m., Chatham. Book Trees. December 8, 5:00—6:00 p.m., Chatham. Marble Gem Jewelry. December 10, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Chatham. Paper Quilt Cards. December 15, 5:00-6:00 p.m., Chatham. Decoupage Desk Sets. December 17, 5:00-6:00 p.m., Chatham. Book page ornaments. Registration required. • Craft Night: December 1, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. Book page wreath. December 8, 6:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon. Crepe Paper Trees. December 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Brosville. Christmas Ornaments. • Re-Use It Tuesday Craft Night: December 1, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. Paper Angel Ornaments. • Loom Knitting: December 2, 9, and 16, 11:00 Learn how to knit socks on looms. • Drop-In Craft: December 3, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m., Gretna. Candle Ornament. December 9, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m., Gretna. Pine Cone and Pom Poms Christmas Tree. • Crochet Instruction: December 7, 5:30 p.m. December 8, 10:00 a.m., Brosville. Learn to crochet. We’ll

provide materials to get you started. • Knitting Group: December 7 and 21, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. All skill levels. • Make and Take Holiday Craft: December 8, 3:00—4:45 p.m., Chatham. • Second Saturday Quilt Club: December 12, 10:00 a.m. until noon at the History Research Center and Library. • Keep Calm and Color: December 16, 2:00 p.m., Brosville. Relax your mind from the holiday hustle and bustle with soft music; crayons, markers, and coloring sheet provided.

Game Programs & Activities:

• Sparky’s LEGO Challenge: December 12, 10:30-1:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. • Bingo for Books: December 22, 5:00 p.m., Gretna.

Movies:

• December 5, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon. Shaun the Sheep. December 16, 3:30 pm, Gretna. Elf. December 18, 3:00 p.m., Brosville. Christmas Movie. December 19, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon. Muppets Christmas Carol. The libraries will be closed from Thursday, December 24 until Monday, December 28. The library also closes at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 31, but is always open on the web: www.pcplib.org. 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; History Research Center and Library, 340 Whitehead Street, Chatham; 434.432.8931; PCP Main Library, 24 Military Drive, Chatham, 434.432.3271; Brosville Library, 11948 Martinsville Highway 434.685.1285 or visit www.pcplib.org.

• LEGO Play: December 3, 4:00-4:45 p.m., Chatham

Danville Public Libraries • December 1 & December 3 Introduction to Genealogical Research: This two-part class will introduce websites and databases that will aid in family history research. Seating is limited. Registration required. 11am-1pm in Computer Lab. Ages 18+ • December 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Crochet Corner: Bring your hook and learn different crochet techniques and designs, or share your own skills. Join the creative fun as we work on individual and group projects. Light refreshments will be provided. 4pm-6pm in Genealogy Room. All ages. Free. • December 4 Yack & Snack Book Club: Christmas novels with our favorite authors! Talk about the books you are reading and enjoy the snacks. 11am12pm in Genealogy Room. Ages 18+. • December 7, 14, 21, 28 African American Voices Book Club: We are celebrating black authors. Whether you are an avid reader and/or author, come share your thoughts on your favorite African American reads. 4pm-5pm in Genealogy Room. All ages. • December 8 & December 10 Introduction to FindAGrave. com: This two-part class will introduce an online database with thousands of cemetery records. Seating is limited. Registration required. 11am-1pm in Computer Lab. Ages 18+ No fee.

• December 10 Christmas Gift Wrapping Party: Bring some boxed presents and wrapping paper. Enjoy light refreshments while watching demonstrations on gift-wrapping and creative bow-making skills. Each present you wrap will receive a special handmade decoration. 2pm -7pm in Auditorium. Demonstrations at 2pm and 5pm. All ages. • December 12 Family Zen: Connecting families and communities through Powered by Zen. Raise the vibrations of your mind, body, and spirit. Charmaine Redd will help you focus on deep breathing methods with positive thinking while ﬁnding balance for your everyday lifestyle during this hectic holiday season. Bring the whole family! Afterwards, join Charmaine in creating Powered by Zen crafts. 9:30am-10:30am in the Auditorium. All ages. $5 adults, kids under 16 free with adult. • December 15 Utilizing Court Records to Guide Genealogical Research: Introduction to databases and resources at the local Clerk of Circuit Court. Learn how to obtain public records to guide research. Seating is limited. Registration required. 11am-1pm. Ages 18+ Free. All programs are held at the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street. Call 434.799.5195 ext. 3 for more information.

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December 2015

Reﬂecting Forward My Father’s Christmas Present by Mack Williams

y long-deceased father was a thin, wiry man, whose cold-naturedness made him more susceptible to winter than people of hot nature. My mother always said this was due to his low blood pressure, something I’ve heard sufferers of low blood pressure say since. On Christmas morning 1961, I came into the living room, still wide awake from Christmas-Eve insomnia. I remember more about the gifts my father received that morning than I do my own. Perhaps, on an almost equal par with “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” might rank the saying “It is more blessed to recall the gifts of others.” A special mental video of that morning remains with me. Between the slats of our living room blinds, darkness had become the color

of that grayish crust which covers glowing charcoal, turning slowly to blue-gray. This was in dim contrast to our Christmas tree’s lights reﬂecting off hanging glass spheres and draped aluminum icicles. My father received socks (men’s Christmas-gift constant), along with several cans of his beloved Prince Albert pipe tobacco. But his greatest excitement came when he unwrapped his electric heating blanket! I can still picture him sitting on the couch, examining the blanket’s controls, and reading its instruction booklet. The electric blanket was a most thoughtful and practical Christmas present. It would be used by him over the course of the next few, ﬁnal years, while such keeping of warmth was yet a viable option.

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A Season of Gratitude by Linda Lemery

n this holiday season, my husband and I count our blessings. It seems particularly important to express gratitude for the things that make life better for all of us. I’m a list-maker. Here’s a snapshot of what we’re grateful for: Good health. Having it means having a wider array of choices for how and where we spend our time now and in the future. If you’ve ever had a serious health challenge, you know what we mean by this. (That doesn’t mean that I don’t have to go on a diet again, like right now.) Our dog Hershey. She turned 15 in November. She shadowed our boys as they grew up, and after they left home, she attached herself to us. Her skin is now lumpy from fatty tumor formation; her hair is patchy from the skin condition she’s been battling with an Elizabethan collar as her constant companion. On the evenings when we venture out, we go for a slow plod rather than a brisk walk. Though this is a journey through doggie eldercare, the warmth in her eyes when she looks at us is unchanged as her life nears its close. Love from family and friends. We’re born into families, with all the sweet and bittersweet experiences that accompany living closely bonded with others. Sometimes our families are blended; what a blessing caring parents or other family members are, regardless of whose blood runs through their veins. I’m grateful for my sweet babboo, Steve, for our sons and our extended family. And friends are the family we choose. Our friends’ kind and persistent presence in our frenzied lives, accompanying us for dinner, for concerts, for camping, for the Elks Lodge pancake breakfasts, is like a brush of gold highlight over a sometimes out-of-focus landscape and adds a rich depth and meaning to our existence. My co-workers. They’re smart, life-long learners: caring, capable people who offer all manner of professional support to students, staff, faculty, the community, and me. These people are bulldogs when it comes to answering questions, especially my many technology-related ones, in an

easy-to-understand, kind, and tolerant way. Our home. Cluttered though it may be with the stuff we’ve amassed, each item emotionally tagged with moments of love, fun, or experience, I wouldn’t trade anything for the comfort and sense of solidity it gives to our lives. I’d sure like to organize it, though! Maybe if I’d quit going to yard sales, there would be less to organize. (Note to self New Year’s resolution: Declutter!) Walking trails. The Riverwalk and the peaceful side streets of our town where we can safely ride bikes or walk and enjoy the beauty of the city are priceless. Organized volunteers. These dedicated people bring widely diverse opportunities to our community, from arts and culture offerings to help for the needy and more. The month of December is full of opportunities, many of which are free (see pages 16 and 18). But it takes a village to organize these events. That’s why we all help when and where we can. Universities, colleges, other institutions of higher learning. They enrich the region. Freedom to travel. We can see fresh, new, inspiring sights, whether here in the United States or abroad. It’s the best when a trip can be combined with seeing friends. A strong spiritual life and the political freedom to celebrate it. A cadre of generous and kind readers who stop me at local events to tell me they read a column and it resonated within them. We are so lucky to have so much to be grateful for. You probably have your own list. I urge you to express your gratitude this season to the people around you for their love and support. Thanking them and telling them you care will make a difference for them and that will make a difference for you. Happy holidays. About the Author: Linda Lemery llemery@averett.edu thanks readers for reading her column and for their kind and generous remarks. She wishes everyone a chance to make holiday wishes come true.

Evince Magazine Page 27

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Page 28

December 2015

Come quickly! I’m tasting stars! is a quote attributed to Dom Pérignon after he tasted his ﬁrst sip of Champagne. The Benedictine monk (1638-1715) has been credited with the creation of the bubbly wine and a lot of us are happy he did. This is the time of year when many are looking for Champagne or sparkling wine to celebrate the season. Notice I said Champagne or sparkling wine. Difference? Just as a Napa wine comes only from Napa Valley, Champagne comes only from the Champagne region of France. European law and the laws of most countries including the United States reserve the term Champagne exclusively for wines from this region of France. Even in France, a sparkling wine not from Champagne is usually called Crémant (cray-mawn), not Champagne. So remember, all that sparkles is not Champagne.

traditionnelle as a synonym.

The Wine Spot

Both phrases describe the same twostep process. First is the fermentation of the base wine (like most other wines), then a second fermentation with additional sugar and yeast being added. This second step produces those wonderful carbon dioxide bubbles that tickle the nose. You may not see either phrase on a bottle of Champagne, but just in case you see other bottles in the store with these phrases you’ll understand what is being said.

Will you be tasting stars this season? by Dave Slayton

a member of the Master Court of Sommeliers

Champagne is made from three grapes: Chardonnay (white/green), Pinot Noir (black) and Pinot Meunier (black). Champagne styles include: Rosé (pink in color, resulting from a brief contact between juice and grape skin during pressing) Blanc de Blancs (light in color and made from 100% Chardonnay), Blanc de Noir (dark in color and usually made from Pinot Noir).

Here are some descriptors you may see on labels: Non-Vintage (NV): aged 15 months and a blend of harvests from different years Vintage: aged 36 months and made from the grapes of only one year’s harvest Sweetness indicator: Dry means

lack of sweetness. Brut Nature (bone dry); Extra Brut (very dry); Brut (dry); Extra Dry (just a trace of sweetness); Sec (semi sweet); Demi Sec (sweet); Doux (very sweet) The words Méthode Champenoise on Champagne and Méthode Traditionnelle on sparkling wine mean

the same process. Of the different methods used to make sparkling wine, the most labor-intensive, traditional, and costly is the méthode champenoise and European Union rules are starting to restrict the use of that phrase for Champagne region producers only. Producers of sparkling wine have reacted by using the phrase méthode

My toast to you: May your celebrations be safe, memorable and full of stars!

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Serve Champagne at 43 to 50 in ﬂuted glasses to make the bubbles last longer. Because holiday meals usually start with delicate tastes and work towards heavier tastes, Champagne tends to pair better with appetizers and/or lighter fare, and of course, that after-dinner celebration toast.

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Evince Magazine Page 29

Bubbly Goes with Everything! by Annelle Williams Want to make your holiday party, Christmas Eve dinner, or Christmas brunch even more festive? Begin your celebration with a glass or two of sparkling wine or Champagne. Most Champagne is on the dry side and can pair well with just about any food. It’s especially delicious with oysters or any seafood, but it’s equally wonderful with strawberries and most everything in-between. The question is whether you enjoy the dry taste or would prefer something a little lighter on the palette. My favorite is Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine that is not as dry as Champagne. Prosecco pairs well with cheese, a variety of brunch foods, desserts and salads. It also makes a great Bellini or mimosa (sparkling wine mixed with fresh peach juice or orange juice). Prosecco can be as versatile as Champagne, but doesn’t offer that big, bold statement. I recently made chocolate fondue for a birthday celebration instead of baking a cake. Prosecco was a great wine pairing, although Champagne would have also been an excellent choice. It really depends on your taste, so try both!

Chocolate Fondue 2 cups of 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate 1⁄2 cup heavy cream Combine cream and chocolate in a heavy saucepan over very low heat. Melt the chocolate, while whisking to blend with the cream. Pour heated chocolate into fondue pot, place the pot over a low heat source stirring frequently. If you don’t have a fondue pot, use a heavy ceramic or metal bowl. Heat the bowl by ﬁlling it with hot water and then pouring out the water. Pour the melted chocolate into the bowl and bring to the table immediately, placing it on a hot pad. If you don’t have fondue forks, use small wooden skewers. Pass a variety of fruit slices (strawberries, pineapple, apple), small cake squares, marshmallows (and chopped nuts to dip the chocolate-covered marshmallow in), and cheese cubes to dip and swirl in the chocolate. Use your imagination and enjoy the fun! Questions or comments? Email me: AnnelleWilliams@comcast.net I look forward to hearing from you!

Page 30

December 2015

Photo Finish Martinsville was the destination for History United/Danville Parks & Recreation tour takers on a cloudy Saturday in October. The group had fun walking the streets of Uptown Martinsville, learning about the cityâ€™s history from an informed guide, meeting the mayor, viewing art, and eating at Serendipity Coffee House & Bistro in Jefferson Plaza. Thanks to Ina Dixon who substituted for Evince photographer, Von Wellington.

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

Heather Hoffman (far right), Visitor Services Coordinator for Martinsville Henry County Tourism, leads the group on a walking tour of Uptown Martinsville. First stop is the Historic Henry County Courthouse now the Heritage Center & Museum.

Justin Meeks studies the Bassett exhibit inside the MHC Heritage Center and Museum. Bassett Furniture in Henry County was a major employer in the area for over 100 years.

The day-trippers pose for a photo at the beginning of the walking tour. Front row: Karen Hibbard, Jessica Austin, Gaynelle Wolford, Jane Edmonds, Joe Graves, Ina Dixon. Middle: Delores Tate, Julia Ramsey, Anne Sylves, Sue Graves. Back: Mark Joyner, Justin Meeks, Larry Wilburn, David Pope, Lesleigh Pope and Dave Corp.

A historical marker greets visitors to Martinsville near the old court house.

The Circus Mural on a wall of the New College Institute, 30 Franklin Street, was painted by local artist Jessie Ward. It is based on a historic photograph taken around 1920 of a parade announcing the arrival of the circus in Martinsville. It is part of the Piedmont Arts Public Art Walking Tour.

The Historic Henry County Courthouse, 1 East Main Street, Martinsville, was built in 1824. The cityâ€™s earliest development centered around this area.

Mayor Danny Turner (right) surprised the group with an impromptu greeting.

Evince Magazine Page 31 When Mayor Danny Turner (facing group) was asked what he liked about Martinsville, he replied without hesitation, “It’s the friendly people.”

Ina Dixon, Jessica Austin, and Karen Hibbard squeeze into an old phone booth and make use of their cell phones in the Rucker’s Communication Museum.

Steve Rucker explains a step switch. It was used from the 1950s until the 1970s in the central ofﬁce to connect calls. This is one of many exhibits at Rucker’s Antique Emporium & Auction House, 20 East Church Street.

Stopping at Uptown Sweets, 1 East Church Street, for a delicious cupcake after lunch, the tourists met the 2015 Miss Martinsville Henry County Teen, Corrine Hilton, during a photo shoot. Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Avenue, is a partner of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The organization has been providing access to visual arts, performing arts and arts education for over 50 years.

Visitors enjoy the exhibit, Aura: Juan Francisco Adaro, on display in the Hooker Garrett Gallery at Piedmont Arts until January 2, 2016. From his beginnings as a street artist in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Juan Francisco Adaro learned his craft from interaction and observation of life. Currently living in South Florida, Adaro is known for his abstract-ﬁgurative, lifesize portraits. He recreates traditional techniques, like oil and acrylics, using recycled materials and natural textures.

The Hooker Garrett Gallery at Piedmont Arts offers a moment of quiet reﬂection.

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December 2015