Evince Magazine February 2013

Karen Cross

Cheerleader for Adventure Page 3

Katie Fitch: Finding Adventure at the Iditarod Page 7

Page 2

February 2013

Photo by Larry Wilburn

2

Editor’s Note

If you ever think life is becoming routine or dull, talk to Karen Cross, Katie Fitch, Dave Gluhareff, Linda Lemery, Mac Williams or Lynda Parham. These local people know how to enjoy living.

Our cheerleader for adventure, Karen Cross, is pictured on the cover at Danville’s new zip line course. Her story is on page 3.

Katie Fitch found excitement in Alaska while working at the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race (page 7).

Fitness guru, Dave Gluhareff, is traveling to Central America to climb every mountain and ford every stream in pursuit of his dreams and fitness goals. Read his story on page 20. Linda Lemery stepped way outside her comfort zone and hooked onto a zip line.

That adventure and others are featured on page 19. A little slower in pace, Mac Williams explores ancestral ruins for a trip back into time on page 21. If you don’t have the money, energy or time to travel, pick up Lynda Parham’s book, Life Is an Adventure. A review of that book is on page 22 and a review of the community read, Redirect, is on the same page. A good read can take you places you’ve never been and you don’t need a passport or a security check.

After writing about Karen’s adventures in the easternmost and westernmost points of the U.S. and Katie’s escapades in Alaska, I ventured to the southernmost point of the United States in Key West, Florida, where this picture was taken. The Home of the Sunset was a warm, beautiful place with newfound experiences and friendships.

If you want an adventure, step out of your comfort zone and keep in mind the advice from Robert Frost in his poem, The Road Not Taken:

February Contents Editor’s Note

3

Karen Cross / Cheerleader for Adventure

by Joyce Wilburn

4

She Said He Said / The Snacks of Life

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

5

The Voice of Readers

6

Performance Points by Kristina Barkhouser

OICE OF ADVENTURE

CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks President Larry Oldham (434.728.3713) larry@evincemagazine.com Editor Joyce Wilburn (434.799.3160) joycewilburn@gmail.com

Where Can I Find an Evince?

7

Katie Fitch / Finding Adventure at the Iditarod

by Joyce Wilburn

8

Crossing of the Dan Commemoration

by Larry Aaron

9

THE

Associate Editors Larry G. Aaron (434.792.8695) larry.aaron@gmail.com Jeanette Taylor Contributing Writers

Larry Aaron, Kristina Barkhouser, Kim Clifton, Patsi Compton, Angela Fowler, Dave Gluhareff, Dena Hill, Sarah Latham, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Caroline Milstead, Bernadette Moore, Fred Motley, Larry Oldham, Betty Smith, Paula Smith, Emily Tomlinson, Melanie Vaughn, Jean Vernon, Lee Wayland, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams, Peggy Wright

Second Thoughts / If the Shoes Fit

by Kim Clifton

10 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Paula Smith 13 Driftwood / Fiction

by Telisha Moore Leigg

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

14 Calendar Clips 16 Calendar

Director of Sales & Marketing Larry Oldham (434.728.3713) larry@evincemagazine.com

19 Reflecting Forward / The Voice of Adventure

by Linda Lemery

Sales Associate Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net

20 My Winter Fitness Adventure

by Dave Gluhareff 21 Exploring on a History-Filled Adventure

by Mack Williams 22 Book Clubbing Redirect / a review by Lee Wayland Life Is an Adventure / a review by Joyce Wilburn

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 March stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is on Sunday, February 17, at 5 p.m.

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

Submit calendar items to: calendar@evincemagazine.com.

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

23 Around the Table / Super Comfort Foods

by Annelle Williams

On the Cover:

Photo of Karen Cross by Michelle Dalton Photography. See story on page 3.

Editorial Policies:

Don’t Forget to Pick Up the New Issue of Emerge Magazine

Meet Some of Our Writers

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

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 Street Suite 3 Danville, VA 24541 www.evincemagazine.com © 2013 All rights reserved.

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

Sincerely, Paula Smith is a mathematics instructor at Danville Community College’s Middle College.

Credits: Hair & Makeup: Katie Mosher; Skin Care: Catherine Adkins; Nails: Janelle Gammon; Genesis Day Spa & Salon, 695 Park Avenue, Danville

Caroline Milstead is the Chair of the Art Department for The Wednesday Club. She is excited about the February 13th program in which Dr. Midkiff will show a modern look at the ancient art form of bead weaving. See page 15.

Bernadette Moore is the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Piedmont Arts in Martinsville.

Angela Fowler is a local performance artist. She will be performing in A Raisin in the Sun. See page 14.

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

For Subscriptions, call 1.877.638.8685 ext. 6.

Evince Magazine

W

to bring a group of eight or more friends, co-workers, church members, or others to experience an adventure activity like kayaking, canoeing, zip lining or rock climbing,” she explains.

“We can set up an experience for any group based on their skills and age level as long as we have the appropriate equipment and expertise to guide the group.” To illustrate further, Karen continues, “We have planned a zip line experience for my 90-year-old mom’s birthday party in April. I’m not sure if my sisters will do it, but my mom will!”

hen Karen Cross was a teenager growing up in North Georgia, she often joined her parents and five siblings hiking the Appalachian Trail. That spirit of outdoor adventure was nurtured throughout college and eventually led to a career in Danville.

The Georgia Southern University graduate with a degree in recreation management explains, “While working at Yellowstone National Park one summer, I met some folks from the Washington D.C. area. I knew it would be fun to work there and thought every place in Virginia was near D.C. so I applied for a job in Danville.”

While laughing at her naiveté, she adds, “I should have looked at the map!”

Without much reflection or prodding, Karen lists other adventure opportunities available to all regardless of skill or age, “Danville now has so many venues for outdoor recreation: mountain biking trails for biking, hiking, and nature study; the Riverwalk Trail for biking, walking, pushing the stroller; the AbreuGrogan Park where boats can be rented; the Dan River where the fishing tournament is held in June. These are things we’ve had in our backyard for a long time, but now they are easily accessible.”

In hindsight, that innocent mistake turned out to be a good thing for Karen. After holding several positions in community recreation, she became Danville’s Director of Outdoor Recreation in the 1990s. “My job now is primarily writing grants for the Riverwalk and park amenities and coordinating projects for the trail,” she says while showing blueprints for the ever-expanding 8.5 mile attraction along the Dan River that opened in 1999.

Although her career responsibilities are managed from a small office at the Nature Center in Ballou Park, the desk job will never keep her indoors. “I canoe, kayak, take hiking trips and rock climb with my husband,” she comments, referring to J.R., her spouse of 26 years. “We own a boat, hike and paddle every chance we have,” adds the energetic woman. “Our vacations are usually in the Rockies,” she says, as memorable moments flash through her mind. Out-of-town adventures also include hiking in Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, Glacier National Park in Montana and Wind River Mountains in Wyoming. “We’ve seen the sunrise at the easternmost point in the contiguous U.S. (Cadillac Mountain and West Quoddy Head in Maine) and the sunset at one of the westernmost points (Cape Blanco in Oregon),” she notes and hastily adds, “but not in the same year.”

Karen and her staff of three know from first-hand experience that there are a lot of fun outdoor opportunities closer to home, including Adventurous Meetings.

“People have the opportunity

Page 3

Karen Cross enjoys a day on the Dan River.

Karen Cross

Cheerleader for Outdoor Adventure

by Joyce Wilburn

Karen shows how easy it is to zip line. Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Before putting on a warm coat for a routine check of the Riverwalk, the cheerleader for outdoor adventure adds, “You can be an outdoor person right here in town. Find out what fits your abilities and interest. Even if you’re not a pro, you’ll have a good time.”

• Read more about Danville Parks & Recreation programs in the spring issue of City Currents, a free publication available by calling 434.799.5200. For the Outdoor Recreation Division, call 434.799.5215.

• For more information, visit www.playdanvilleva.com.

• Register now for the Green Legs & Hamstrings 5th Anniversary Trail Run on Saturday, March 9, starting at 10:00 a.m. at Anglers Park.

Every group of six or more that pre-registers by Friday, February 8, will be entered in a drawing to receive a free session on the low ropes challenge and zip line for up to 15 people.

• Danville Zip Line & Low Ropes Challenge Course is located at Dan Daniel Memorial Park. Choose your adventure from the half-day Low Ropes Challenge Plus Zip Extreme to a Zip Express Party! Call 434.799.5215 for reservations.

Page 4

February 2013

ASK DR. JUDITH

SHE SAID

HE SAID

by Dena Hill

by Larry Oldham

The Snacks of Life

�������������������������� �������������������

�����������������������������

Q: loss can be caused by many A: Hearing things; noise, illness, medications or What causes hearing loss?

genetics. The most common hearing loss for people over 65 is a sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This is a hearing loss that occurs due to damage to the hearing system at the inner ear. It is not surgically treatable. Another type of hearing loss occurs at the outer or middle ear. It is called a conductive hearing loss and can sometimes be medically corrected. A conductive hearing loss can be caused by middle ear infection, a hole in the eardrum, certain diseases such as otosclerosis or even excess ear wax. A third type of hearing loss is a mixed loss. This hearing loss is both at the inner ear (sensorineural and permanent) and the outer or middle ear (conductive hearing loss and possibly medically treatable). The treatment of hearing loss depends on what type of loss you have. The most effective treatment for a sensorineural hearing loss is hearing instruments. A conductive hearing loss and mixed hearing loss must be addressed by an Otolaryngologist (ENT), or Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner in an ENT setting. ��������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ��������������������������������� ������������������� ��������������������������� ������������������������

� � � � � � �

�������� �������� �� ���������� �� ����� ����������������������������������� ��������������������������� ���������������������� ������������ �������� ���������� ��������������������� ����������������������

I hope you are through making me eat snacks and fattening meals just because you are tempted and want me to gain weight along with you.

Thanks to you, I now have to make a greater effort to lose weight. I have gained at least eight pounds over the last two months by following your lead in every restaurant, snack, latenight snack and weekend indulgence of food on top of food.

The only reason I eat what and when I do is to make you happy. If I didn’t eat all these things you bake, you would probably be mad at me. You tell me that if I don’t like something you serve, to eat it anyway and wait until the next day to complain about how it tasted. So it’s your fault that I look like I’m 10 months pregnant. The other side of this food story is that I took you out of the depths of despair from all those vegetables, tofu, salads and yogurt and brought you into a life of delectable goodies and exceptional food.

She said

You, along with most other men, have no trouble losing weight. You can go two We have eaten days without at many fine soft drinks restaurants and lose five and enjoyed pounds. You most of them. can also spend We have eaten five days Tom and eating four Jerry’s ice bags of potato cream until we chips and two could hardly cartons of dip, move. I have and drinking taught you to 10 Cokes make peanut while watching butter and egg football and sandwiches still lose for breakfast weight. I don’t that melt in see you when your mouth. you weigh, You should but I trust you be proud of when you say that instead of that you lost complaining weight on that I have certain days done you or weeks. wrong. You Many women, Photo by weigh less Michelle Dalton Photography. including me, now than have trouble when we first keeping started dating weight off and it doesn’t help living and you have enjoyed some of the with a man who prefers to eat out best foods that Sam’s Club has to every night or order pizza for many offer. I think you should be thanking meals. I may as well slap pizza right me for introducing you to the world on my hips and bypass my mouth. of tacos, banana cream pies and roast beef sandwiches. Think of all I walk two miles every day and the good food and candy that I sneak exercise on the elliptical for 30 into the house to tempt you with. minutes every morning and still have Think of all the great foods you have to watch what I eat. My New Year’s cooked for me over the years. I have resolution in the 1970s was to lose broadened your palette of fine foods weight and get in shape. That has from the dull to the extraordinary. resulted in a life style change for me.

I would love to go to Steaks on the I’m surprised that I am receiving Square and eat ribs with you instead the blame for your putting on a few of just watching you while I eat from pounds, but I am more than willing the salad bar, but I can’t. You gain to help you work them off. I will drive 10 pounds, lose 10 pounds, and eat my car beside you while you walk. I everything in sight. It must be your will be more than happy to give you metabolism because until we started the He Said diet that has worked dating, you didn’t know what a calorie wonders for me over the years. I know was, let alone, have the ability to that after reading this you will be count them. Starting today, I am my feeling much better about yourself. It own dietician and you can fend for has worked amazingly well for me. I yourself. I’m not being mean, just already feel eight pounds lighter. trying to be healthy. Good luck.

He Said

������������������������������������������������ ����������������

��������������������������� �������������������������

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

Evince Magazine

The Voice of Readers Lauren M

athena

Work Com ing on

m nit y Projeu To the Editor: cts Re: Second Thoughts: Junk in the Trunk by Kim Clifton (January page 9) “There are some things in life you can’t do and live to tell about it: skate the Washington Beltway, hug a python or open Kim’s closet.” I laughed right out loud when I read “hug a python.” Too funny. It was To the Editor: a great read.

I have been very impressed with what Evince has done toward Anne Cockrell changing the negative and pessimistic outlook of so many Kim can find the humor in any Danville people to a more positive situation. She has been writing and optimistic one. It is so badly Second Thoughts since 1997 and needed if our city is going to for that we are very grateful. achieve the renaissance to which it aspires. Keep up the good work! ���� ���

���� ��������������� ��� ����� �������������� ����� ���� ��� ����

To the Editor: I think the articles in Evince are fabulous and greatly appreciate your spotlighting Lauren Mathena (January page 3) and Lauren Moore (January page 7) and their funds at The Community Foundation. We’ve already received gifts to the Kolton Karnes Fund and the Autism Education Fund in response to the articles. Thank you for sharing a couple of the great examples of our community’s generosity.

Debra Dodson Executive Director The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region

Lee Wayland Thanks for the kind words.

We appreciate it.

To the Editor: I made the Squash and Chard Cannelloni last night for dinner.

(Around the Table, January, page 23) We all enjoyed this meal. Good friendly food. Thanks.

Fred Meder We are glad you and your friends liked Annelle’s recipe. I agree.

She’s a great cook and has delicious recipes.

It is our pleasure to connect people with such a valuable charity and a wonderful asset of the region.

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

Tell us what you think.

Email joyce@evincemagazine.com or send mail to Evince Editor, 753 Main Street, Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541.

Letters might be edited for space or style.

Submission constitutes permission to use.

Page 5

Page 6

February 2013

Where Can I Find an Evince?

Ten thousand copies of Evince are distributed each month. 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 H. W. Brown Florist (they deliver an Evince with your order) Hibachi Grill on Executive Court Joe & Mimma’s Karen’s Hallmark @ Piedmont Mall Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s Shorty’s Bakery @ Coleman Marketplace The Highlander Western Sizzlin

Main Street/Downtown/ Tobacco Warehouse Area

American National Bank Comcast on Patton Street Danville Public Library on Patton Street Danville Regional Medical Center on South Main Street Danville Science Center on Craghead Street Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market on Chambers Street YMCA

Memorial Drive Frank’s Pizza Gingerbread House

Piney Forest Road Area Commonwealth Pharmacy Mary’s Diner Piedmont Credit Union

Franklin Turnpike Area Ruben’s Too Village’s Pizza

Other

Danville Welcome Center on River Park Drive URW Credit Union on Arnett Boulevard

In Chatham

Chatham Community Center Chatham Health Center Chathamooca Frank’s Pizza Pittsylvania County Public Library

In Yanceyville, NC

Caswell County Civic Center Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store

In South Boston

Berry Hill Resort Distinct Impressions Ernie’s Restaurant O Sol Mio on Bill Tuck Hwy. Prizery Southern Virginia Higher Education Toot’s Creek Antiques

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Evince Magazine Add to your list of things to do: volunteer to help with the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in Alaska.

It’s not as ridiculous as it might sound. Danvillian Katie Fitch has been there, done that and is ready to take others on the same journey in March 2014.

The San Francisco native, who moved to Southern Virginia in 2011, used her skills as a massage therapist at the end of the 2011 run between Anchorage and Nome to relieve the aching muscles of the mushers who had raced over 1,000 miles to the finish line. Katie tells how she became involved in Alaska’s most popular sporting event: “My neighbor in Anchorage was the founder and Executive Director of Alaska Missions and mentioned that she had a group going to Nome and she needed a massage therapist.” Without hesitation, Katie responded, “Count me in!”

Alaska Missions, a non-profit group that works “to change hearts and lives with a message of hope in Christ,” has a twopronged goal. Katie explains, “Because of the isolation of the villages and the long winter season, they have problems with alcohol, domestic violence and drugs. Part of this mission group goes there to help in those areas while others help with the Iditarod.” Assistance is needed during the race because journalists, photographers and spectators sometimes double the population of the small towns, villages and settlements and it can become overwhelming for the natives.

Katie recalls her 10-day experience with an ear-toear grin. “My favorite part of working with the mushers was

Page 7

Leaving the Last Frontier for Southern Virginia wasn’t easy, either literally or figuratively. When her husband, Andy, was offered the job of Controller at Averett University, Katie remembers her reaction. “That sounded scary. I’d never been to the East Coast and all our kids and grandkids are on the West Coast,” she says, referring to three adult children and seven grandchildren. Even though they weren’t able to visit Danville before moving 6,000 miles, Katie’s spirit of adventure came through in her decision. “Oh, what the heck! Let’s do it,” she told Andy and they are glad they did. Katie continues, “We really like it here. When we meet people, they are genuinely interested in who we are and what we do. We’ve also noticed that whether people know us or not, they will talk to us! We find that amazing. It’s different from all the other places we’ve lived and that is refreshing.”

Sitting in their warm, cozy living room on a chilly winter day, Katie and Andy are content in their new Southern Virginia home, but Alaska is calling them back for the 2014 Iditarod Race. Katie’s eyes light up and her voice fills with excitement as she issues a public invitation for her next great adventure, “Want to come with us?”

Katie Fitch

Finding Adventure at the Iditarod

by Joyce Wilburn hearing their stories,” she says and then speaks of DeeDee Jonrowe, the foremost female dog musher competing in the world today. “She

Katie massages the tired muscles of one of the lead dogs in the race. The rest of her clients were human.

fought breast cancer and survived.

She races wearing a pink coat and all her dogs have little pink booties.”

• For more information about Alaska Missions and its role in the Iditarod, visit www.akmissions.com.

Click Mission Projects. Choose Iditarod Outreach.

• For more info about the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race visit www.iditarod.com.

• Contact Katie at kfitch4@gmail. com about joining a group to work during the 2014 Iditarod.

She warns that there’s lots to do and it can be hard work.

After 1,000+ miles the finish line in Nome is a welcomed sight.

Page 8

February 2013

�����

You’re Invited to the

Crossing of the Dan Commemoration

by Larry G. Aaron

������������ ������ ����� ������ � ������ ����� �����

��������������� ��������������

����������������������������������������

��������������������� ������������������� ��������������������

This year marks the 232nd anniversary of General Nathanael Greene’s crossing of the Dan River in South Boston on February 14, 1781, an event which rescued the American Revolution from defeat. The Retreat to the Dan began in January 1781, following an American victory at Cowpens in South Carolina and became a Race to the Dan across North Carolina and into Virginia. This tactical retreat saved the American Southern Army and was one of the turning points in the war. The historical significance of the event places the Dan River crossing on a unique list of landmark sites of the American Revolution.

As part of the commemoration, the Crossing Players, Singers and Musicians from Halifax County Middle School will present the

inspiring story of the Crossing in verse and song on Thursday, February 14, at 7 p.m. at the Prizery, 700 Bruce Street, in South Boston.

At 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 16, the Sons and the Daughters of the American Revolution societies will host presentation of wreaths and a portrayal of Peter Francisco, the Hercules of the Revolution, by his descendent Travis Bowman. George Washington said of Francisco, “Without him, we would have lost two crucial battles, perhaps the war, and with it, our freedom.

He was truly a one-man army.”

Following the program, guests are invited to the outdoor exhibit at the Boyd’s Ferry site on the Dan River and enjoy a Brunswick

��������������������������

stew lunch for $5. A replica of a ferry boat, several of which were used to cross the river in 1781, will be on display. A dramatic reenactment of the Crossing of the Dan by American and British re-enactors coupled with cannon and musket fire will culminate the day’s events. All events will take place at The Prizery, 700 Bruce Street in South Boston. For more information, visit www.prizery.com/ Crossing/Celebration.htm or email tsraab@comcast.net or bernie.sar@gmail.com. Re-enactors, email isuecrooks@comcast.net.

WE’RE SELLING HOUSESSM

����� �����������

��������� ����������������� �������������� ��������������������� ��������������

������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������ ��������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ �������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ���������������������������

���������������������������������� ��������������������������

��������� �������������� ���������

��������� ������� ������ �������

��������� ������������� �������������� ������������� ������������������ ������������� ������������������������������������������ ��������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ������������������������������������

������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ���������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������

������������������������������������������ �������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� ������������������������������ ����������������������������� ������������������������� ��������������������� ��������������������� �������������������� ������������������������ ������������������������� ������������������������ ������������������

Evince Magazine

Second Thoughts

by Kim Clifton ©2013

If the Shoe Fits Every year it’s the same old thing.

A string ensemble plays Vivaldi as two silhouettes waltz about the room. A huge diamond fills the screen as a voice-over booms, “This year...tell her you’d marry her all over again.”

The woman swoons. Oh, please...give me a break. It’s not the sentiment that makes her faint. It’s the expense.

She knows the light bill’s due and the youngest needs braces. But you’ll never see that in a commercial. Good TV is about romance and enchanted evenings like in Cinderella. I enjoy a juicy love story; however, that one is too farfetched. It has nothing to do with believing a pumpkin could be used for transportation. I can’t get past the shoes.

Let’s face it. Real women would never agree to wear glass slippers, especially when acrylic makes a much more practical pump. Moreover, see-through footwear requires entirely too much maintenance. At a minimum, you’re looking at a weekly pedicure and a purse-sized bottle of Windex®. Besides, I’ve always thought a prince wandering around with a slipper was not only pathetic, but a bit of a stretch. He wasn’t a suitor in search of his beloved. He was a show-off. Going door-to-door

with the abandoned shoe was just grandstanding, since he already had a good set of toe prints. All he needed was a fresh ink pad and a ream of paper to stamp out a positive ID. Then again, looking for a woman limping away from a broken-down pumpkin might be his best bet.

I suppose the main point of this story is that a royal found true love with a commoner, which is why Valentine’s Day gets such hype. Even so, I wish I could produce a commercial based on real life and not fantasy. One that doesn’t give a hoot if he went to Jared®.

My commercial would have the narrator saying something like this: “This Valentine’s Day...tell her you’ll take out the trash. And you do. This Valentine’s Day...tell her you’ll wash her car. And you do.”

So, keep the diamonds, pendants, chocolates, and roses. Forget the glass slippers and fairy tales. I’d rather you feed the cat, empty the dishwasher, or run the vacuum. Without being asked.

Now that’s what makes a prince in my book.

Readers have requested that we reprint this column from February 2011.They loved it and wanted to read it again. Kim says, “Enjoy and Happy Valentine’s Day.”

Page 9

Page 10

February 2013

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service To encourage exceptional customer service, the Business Development Committee of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and Evince will recognize those who give it. When you experience exceptional customer service, tell us about it in 300 words or less. Include your name and phone number. Email your story to joycewilburn@gmail.com or visit www.dpchamber. org; click What’s New - Customer Service Award Nomination.

by Paula Smith The stress of needing a prescription refilled, being brand new under Medicare guidelines, finding answers in the interim period of receiving my Rx card, experiencing the impending unknown effects of approaching Monster Storm Sandy and having a daughter residing in the most intense predicted path of the ominous storm was graciously dealt with by my now bffpt (best friend forever pharmacy technician), Vicky Coleman, at our Danville Wal-Mart Pharmacy.

Vicky was absolutely a delight, a jewel and an angel to deal with at this time.

She answered my questions, gathering queries directly and extensively.

She offered additional helpful information for consideration and intelligent decision-making. Someone at a previous pharmacy that I had visited had been curt with my questions and need of clarification of some issues that we new Medicare seniors confront.

Vicky impressed me with her pleasant manner and great sense of humor, as she eased my many concerns and equipped me with needed information. Her personal attention and intention were very evident. This was a true experience in exceptional customer service.

Evince Magazine

Page 11

Page 12

February 2013

Evince Magazine

T

he first time, 22 years ago, when Tim held Clarisse’s hand on her daddy’s porch, her fingers had trembled. He had saved up and brought her hothouse lilies from the A&P grocery.

This Friday, two decades later, at 11:13 p.m. Tim Knox pushed back the rose-colored coverlet from his shoulders and answered the phone beside his woman’s bed. Tim didn’t even think about how it wasn’t his home. He hardly went to his own place anymore, a nice two-bedroom apartment on Milton Street. He might let it go. Cause when a man claimed a woman’s phone, he claimed the woman and all she had. And his old life? Like his apartment, marriage, those dented dreams, he would let go of that like a man lets go the buoy that held him afloat and starts swimming away. His old life was like a ship he ran aground and Tim couldn’t decide if he wanted what he shipwrecked to sink or sustain, couldn’t decide if he was leaving a trail of blood in the water or whose blood it was. Still in late night calls, there is danger in silence broken. Darla slept on, while he felt his heart hitch. Something was coming. He sat up, rasped into the receiver, “Hello.”

The chocolate box he got from Woolworth’s had almost melted after his long walk through Shottown. At 18 and with still no car, Tim felt like the odd frog out trying to see Clarisse Jordan.

“Hey, Daddy.” Tim sat straighter; it was his Laurel. He could smell the hurt across the line. Laurel, the daughter away at college was an island sinking in sorrow. For him, her saccharine smiles and “I’m-fineDaddy” were like mist and rain. She gave him no truth of herself anymore.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” “Nothing.

I came home for the weekend to Mama’s and locked myself out.” Darla turned over, put a hand on his naked shoulder.

Tim had told Rosco Jones while salvaging for car parts and drinking Sundrop soda at Joe John’s Junkyard that he was going to marry Clarisse Jordan. He was going into service and he and Clarisse were going to live on Lincom Street. Rosco had laughed until he spit Dr. Pepper out his nose.

“Laurel,” Tim held his hand over the receiver and whispered to Darla. Darla didn’t turn away, her eyes quiet and

Driftwood

Page 13

name was that? This love was young yet, Tim thought. That word love made his throat burn more than the cigarettes. The right remark, some sly condemnation and he could make her doubt Marco, herself and love. Tim picked up an old touchtone corded phone, ready to bark vengeance.

She had worn blue in February and her left hand kept smoothing her skirt, so shy at home on her father’s porch it was painful. Theodore Jordan was reading the paper in the living room and chicken and dumplings wafted from the kitchen. And that was her home. That’s what he took her from.

So this is drowning, Tim thought, brine and bitterness in his teeth. And in his right hand, he held the receiver.

And the street light was creeping over the window with a coming dawn; a few moths were hovering over the artificial glow. And these hovering memories made him put the receiver back down on the cradle. Driftwood travels the way it wants broken off from what once made it whole.

The author welcomes your reactions at telishamooreleigg@gmail.com.

fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

tense into his. “Locked herself out,” Tim whispered again when Darla still hadn’t asked if Laurel was all right. Darla wouldn’t; she thought Laurel didn’t like her or him. Darla was right. Laurel’s love was just a TV dinner and Tim ate hate reheated as hope. “Where’s your mama, Laurel? Where’s Clarisse?” He found he had to say his ex-wife’s name, have the feel of it on his tongue.

Rosco, whose eyes were whiskey-shot at 22, said, “Shooooot, Tim! What you know about love? Better leave that girl alone. You just gone break her heart and her daddy gone break yo tail.”

Tim knew Laurel could have called her Aunt Regina or a neighbor. Laurel didn’t have to let him know. If he hadn’t known Laurel still hated him, still blamed him for the divorce, doggedly blamed him for Mathew—her dead brother— going wild in the streets, he knew it now.

Laurel had to know telling him would be a strike sweet and feral. “She and Marco out,” she said. “She and Marco?” Tim echoed. Darla moved her hand from his shoulder, got up from the bed, made a sliver of light in the hallway and went to the couch. “Do you want me to come get you?” He felt anticipation not anger at the thought of the drive.

But Theodore Jordan had welcomed him, called him son, sat on the porch with him until Clarisse came out.

“My Clarisse, she tender.” Theodore Jordan raised kind eyes. “You tell me true? You a good man, Timothy Knox?” And Tim had nodded.

“Naw, Daddy,” Laurel’s voice was small, like she had been waiting for something she didn’t get. He sighed into his heart. He felt regret scraping his throat in good long swipes. He knew he couldn’t give Laurel her family back. “Wait, Daddy, I hear someone coming now, must be them.

Night, Daddy.”

He lay in Darla’s bed until dawn. She never came back from the couch.

He lay in that bed long enough for his shock to get cold. Of course, he could call Clarisse, say something cutting and man-cold, a hypocritical “don’t-you-think-you-should-see-toour-daughter-better-than-you-didour-boy?” He sucked in his jaws with righteous anger, swiped tears from his eyes while he looked for cigarettes.

His rage pumped; Tim was ready to drop anchor right through Clarisse’s new life, right into her broke down dingy of coping. Marco, what kind of

Page 14

February 2013

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 16-17.

Friday, February 1 – Friday, March 1 People, Pets & Pilot

Register to have your picture taken with your pet by Del Cid Photography. The Luncheon Pilot Club of Danville will display all pictures and the community will vote in cash on the best picture. The winner is determined by the picture that raises the most cash votes. All money raised stays in our community to support those in need with brain related problems.

For registration and sponsor information, call 434.709.0695 or email karma50@gamewood.net. (submitted by Melanie Vaughn)

Saturday, February 2 – Saturday, March 30

We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball

Admission is free to this exhibit at Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Avenue, Martinsville. Artist and author Kadir Nelson created 33 paintings and 13 sketches for his brilliantly illustrated children’s book of the same name.

The exhibition is a mirror for the social and political history of Black America in the first half of the 20th century.

The story of the Negro Leagues is about hundreds of unsung heroes who overcame segregation, hatred, terrible conditions and low pay to do the one thing they loved more than anything else in the world-- play ball. The New York Times named Nelson’s book one of the Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2008. Nelson was the 2009 Coretta Scott King Book Award Recipient for We Are the Ship.

Works by Rupe Dalton will also be on display in the Lynwood Artists Gallery.

An airbrush artist from Axton, Virginia, Dalton’s scenes of old-time AfricanAmerican life celebrate the simple things, like playing cards on a Sunday afternoon. Dalton has won numerous Best in Show and People’s Choice awards.

For more information, call 276.632.3221. (submitted by Bernadette Moore)

Sunday, February 3 Sunday Soiree

From noon until 2:00 p.m. enjoy a tour of kitchens and a progressive gourmet luncheon of sumptuous fare--appetizers, hearty main course, desserts-at three fabulous kitchens in one of two locales: West End /West Main or Pinetag /Country Club.

The donation of $25 will benefit Danville Delius Legacy. Begin Pinetag/ Country Club Tour with appetizers at the home of Debbie and Barry Flinn, 310 Dogwood Drive, continue to Country Club Drive for an elegant entree and another location for dessert. Begin West End / West Main Tour with appetizers at Averett University’s Conway House, 167 Mountain View Avenue, Frederick and continue at two other sites. Tickets are Delius available at Foxglove, Gingerbread House, Midtown Market and Wood’s Menswear or call 434.822.1112. (submitted by Jean Vernon)

Monday, February 4

Editor-in-Chief of Better Homes & Garden to Speak

The Women’s Leadership Circle at Averett University is pleased to welcome Hall of Fame Editor and Danville native Gayle Goodson Butler, who will share the story of her journey from growing up in Danville to leading one of America’s most popular publications. She will discuss the media transformations that are occurring and how they are propelling magazines into multi-media brands. This 1 1⁄2 hour free presentation is open to the public and begins at 10:00 a.m. in Blount Chapel located in the breezeway under Frith Hall on Mountain View Avenue. For more information, call 434.791.5681. (submitted by Emily Tomlinson)

Wednesday, February 6

My Journey from Boardroom to Ballroom and Beyond

Danville native, Elizabeth (Liz) Dalton will speak at The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street, starting at 3:45 p.m.

Liz is an award-winning community leader currently serving as the Director of Development and Public Relations for Athens Technical College in Georgia. Since 2002, Dalton has hosted and produced a radio talk show, Liz Talk. This presentation is free and open to the public and will chronicle defining moments in her life. She jokingly says, “Fortunately, I will not be dancing, but learning to dance at age 46 changed the course of my life in many ways!” Liz is the daughter of Anne Geyer and granddaughter of Elizabeth Thompson, both past presidents of The Wednesday Club. For more information, call 434.836.2511. (submitted by Peggy Wright)

Friday, February 8 – Sunday, February 10 A Raisin in the Sun

Gretna Little Theatre will present this awarding-winning play at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. The story in this classic tale takes place in the mid-1950s in Southside Chicago, where an African American family of three women, one man and a 10-year-old boy reside in a tiny high- rise apartment.

Lena Younger’s husband has recently died and the family awaits the check from his insurance policy worth $10,000 ($100,000 in today’s market). The Younger family is pulled in many different directions as to how this money should be spent.

Established director, Janina Shoemaker, is assisted by co-director Timothy Bennett, whose involvement with Gretna Little Theatre is a sign of our ever-evolving times. When this play debuted in 1959 and the film version was released in 1961, Bennett’s parents were not allowed to sit in the main section of the Theatre but only in the balcony due to segregation. Today Bennett is performing onstage and is part of the creative team. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door, 107 North Main Street, in Gretna. For more information, call 434.656.3377 or visit www.gretnalittletheatre.com. (submitted by Angela Fowler))

Saturday, February 9

12th Annual Danville Storytelling Festival

Keeping the Oral Tradition Alive will be presented at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This free event will feature storytellers Charlotte Hamlin, Darlene Watson and Fred Motley, poet Josephus Thompson II, and the Kummba Dance Company. For centuries when people came together, they told stories that celebrated families and communities and passed along wisdom. Besides being a time-honored form of entertainment, storytelling opens doors into worlds of identity, imagination, listening and preserving traditions. Through songs, rhymes, memoirs, poems and tales that are rich in humor, this Festival continues to entertain and celebrate oral tradition. For more information, call 434.793.5644. (submitted by Fred Motley)

Monday, February 11

A Game Apart: Mike Wiley as Jackie Robinson

Starting at 7:00 p.m., acclaimed actor and playwright Mike Wiley provides a glimpse into the life of baseball great, Jackie Robinson, during a bygone era of separate and unequal locker rooms, of whites-only hotels and of restaurants with only a back door for athletes of color to enter. Witness the hopeless humiliation of a star player who was showered with adulation on the field and became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. Wiley has a Masters of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has appeared on Discovery Channel, The Learning Channel and National Geographic Channel and has been featured in Our State magazine and on PBS’ North Carolina Now and WUNC’s The State of Things. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, or online at www.piedmontarts.org. (submitted by Bernadette Moore)

Evince Magazine Wednesday, February 13

Bead Weaving: An Ancient Art Form in Modern Jewelry

The Wednesday Club presents this free presentation

by Dr. Ronald Midkiff beginning at 3:45 p.m. After a distinguished career in education, Midkiff became fascinated with the art of bead weaving during numerous visits to the Far East. He learned from leading designers in Japan, China, South Korea and North America. He will tell his story and show his designs at The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street. The public is invited to the coffee that begins at 3:15 p.m. For more information visit www.

TheWedClubDanvilleVA.org. (submitted by Caroline M. Milstead)

Wednesday, February 20

Magical Meatless Meals Cooking Show

Wayne Alan, owner of the North Theatre, will showcase his skills as a chef and a magician starting at 3:45 p.m. at the Wednesday, Club, 1002 Main Street. Alan became interested in magic at the age of ten and a protégé of professional magician, Dick Grey. At 14, he became one of the youngest members of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. While a student at the University of Maryland, he majored in marketing, minored in dramatic arts and continued performing shows. He became a fulltime professional magician at 21.

Alan is the winner of the Gold Medal for Grande Illusion and held this title for an unprecedented 15 years. He has performed on Entertainment Tonight and Good Morning America and has appeared with Oprah Winfrey, Larry King and Maury Povich. On four occasions, he performed at the White House. The public is invited to this free presentation. (submitted by Betty Smith)

Wednesday, February 20

The Historical African-American Cemeteries of Central Virginia

The Danville Historical Society presents Dr. Lynn Rainville, Research Professor in the Humanities at Sweet Briar College and a visiting research scholar at the Carter G. Woodson Center for African-American Studies at UVA. Rainville’s book, Hidden History: African-American Cemeteries in Central Virginia, will be published in 2014. This free event is open to the public and will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 767 Main Street (the former Main Street Methodist Church). For more information, visit www.danvillehistory.org or call 434.489.6528. (submitted by Sarah Latham)

Sunday, February 24

Meet New DMFAH Director

From 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the President and the Board of Directors of The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, will host an open house to introduce Cara Burton, the new Executive Director of the Museum. The public is invited. For more information, call 434. 793.5644 or visit www.danvillemuseum.org. (submitted by Patsi Compton)

Upcoming

Saturday, March 2 Marchi-Gras

The Danville Historical Society’s Mardi Gras-themed Speakeasy party will be held from 8 p.m. until midnight. In the tradition of a true Speakeasy, the historic location of the party in Danville is revealed when tickets are purchased. Enjoy live music, dancing, cash bar, silent auction, games, munchies and desserts. Costumes are optional, but awards will be given for best costume and most original costume. Tickets are $25 per person and $45 per couple. They can be purchased at Rippe’s, Vintages by the Dan, or Piedmont Credit Union. For more information, visit www.danvillehistory.org or call 434.489.6528. (submitted by Sarah Latham)

Page 15

Page 16

February 2013

February Calendar Ongoing

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

Thru February 14

Cat/Dog Valentine Baskets – Baskets contain Valentine items for owners and a cat or dog, while supplies last. Danville Area Humane Society Shelter. 434.799.0843.

Thru March 10

DMFAH Exhibits – Sketches of Prison Life: Danville in the Civil War and Virginia Vistas: Oil Paintings and Watercolors. Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History (DMFA&H) – 434.793.5644.

Thru April 26

Autism Awareness 5k Registration. www.danriverautism5k.org.

Thru May 5

Playing with Time Exhibit – Use time-manipulating tools to explore nature from the growth and development of plants and animals to era-spanning geologic events.

Danville Science Center (DSC) – 434.791.5160.

Thru May 27

Nano Mini Exhibit – Interactive exhibit engages visitors in nanoscale science, engineering and technology.

Hands-on elements present the basics of nanoscience and engineering, introduce real- world applications and explore societal and ethical implications of this technology. DSC – 434.791.5160.

Thru August 25

Dinosaurs Exhibit. Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH) – 276.634.4185.

February 1

Parents Night Out – Parents enjoy a night out, while children enjoy activities, games, food and spending time with their friends. 6-10pm.

Coates Rec Center. 434.797.8848.

First Friday Art Walk. 5-7pm. Studio 107, Martinsville – 276.638.2107.

February 1 (thru 22)

Storytime – Share stories and songs with a theme. Ages birth-5.

11-11:45am. Danville Public Library (DPL) – 434.799.5195.

Valentine Dance – Celebrate the month of love with music, dancing and light refreshments.

Grades K-5, 7-9pm, 2/1@ Coates; 2/8@Glenwood. Grades 6-8, 7-9:30pm; 2/15-@Coates; 2/22@Glenwood. 434.799.5150.

February 1 (thru 25)

High Intensity Interval Training.

M 7am; F 12pm. YMCA – 434.792.0621.

February 2013 S

M

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

T

W

T

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

S 2 9 16 23

February 1 (thru March 1)

February 4, 6, 12 & 19

Bingo. Times/locations vary.

434.799.5216.

and Motion. Ages 6-9 & 10-15.

10-11:15am & 3-4pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185.

February 2

February 4 (thru 27)

February 6 (thru 27)

Blood Pressure & Body Mass Index Checks. Times/locations vary.

434.799.5216.

Aerobics Class. MW 5:30-6:30pm.

Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115.

Art with Flo – Wet-on-wet technique. Weds. Location/times vary. 434.797.8848.

African Dance – Learn the art of African Dance. TU 6-7:30pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

February 4 (thru 28)

February 7

People, Pets & Pilot.

See story page 14.

DRBA’s First Saturday Outing – Reynolds Homestead in Critz, VA. 10am. 540.570.3511. www.danriver.org.

3D with E.D. – Subtractive Sculpture – Students will use rapid subtraction (carving/removing) exercises to create a Styrofoam sculpture. 10am-3pm. Piedmont Arts Association (PAA), Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Bob Ross Painting Class – Sunlight in the Shadows. 10:30am– 3:30pm. Ballou Park. 434.797.8848.

Concealed Carry Permit Class – Learn the laws in Virginia that regulate handguns and basic design and safety mechanics of marksmanship. 9am-2pm. Glenwood Community Center. 434.799.5150.

Story Lab – Listen to stories while doing something creative with a special theme and art medium. Ages 5-9. 10-11am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament.

10am-2pm. Ballou Park Disc Golf Course. 434.799.5215.

Ain’t I A Woman! – Chamber music theatre performance celebrating the lives and times of four significant African-American women and performed by the Core Ensemble.

7:30pm. Pritchett Auditorium, Averett. 434.791.5620.

February 2, 9 & 16

Yoga for ANY Body. 9-10am.

Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

February 2 (thru March 30)

PAA Exhibit – We Are The Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball and Works by Rupe Dalton. See story page 14.

February 3

Sunday Soiree. Danville Delius Legacy benefit. See story page 14.

River City Mustang Club Meeting. 2:30pm. Location TBA. 434.770.3716.

February 4

Averett Speaker Series – Editor-in-Chief of Better Homes & Garden. See story page 14.

Anime Club – Come watch anime, talk manga, and enjoy things Japanese. Ages 12+. 4-6pm.

DPL– 434.799.5195.

Needle Social – Learn to knit or crochet. Create mittens, hats, blankets and more. 6pm.

South Boston Public Library – 434.575.4228.

February 5

Clean Teeth Talk. Ages 6+. 4pm.

Person County Public Library.

336.597.7881.

Valentine’s Craft Night - Make Valentine cards and every child receives a free treat from the kid cow. 5-7pm. Chick-Fil-A, Riverside.

Bob Ross Painting Class – Sunlight in the Shadows. 9am3:30pm. PAA, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Yack & Snack Book Club. 12-1pm.

Danville Public Library-Main (DPL).

434.799.5216.

Bingo Madness – Bingo with different themes each month. 4pm.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Wine, Women & Chocolate – Ladies only. Enjoy great food, chocolate, wine/beer/soft drinks and opportunities for a facial, manicure, neck massages. 6-10pm. Roxboro Country Club. 336.599.8333.

February 5 (thru 26)

February 7 (thru 28)

Pure Core – Staff will instruct participants on exercises to isolate and work the upper, lower, transverse, and oblique abdominals as well as the lower back area. M-TH 10:30-11:30am. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Karate Class. TU 5:30-6:30pm.

Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115 or 434.250.2311.

Belly Dancing Class. TU 7-8pm.

Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115 or 434.713.9076.

February 5 (thru 28)

Cardio Step Class – Up-tempo, high energy class. TTH 8:15-9:15am, 12-1pm or 4-5pm. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Baby Boomer Style Work Out – Incorporate walking, cardio activity and weight training into a fitness routine. TTH 9-10:30am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Ladies, It’s Time to Work It Out – Incorporate walking, cardio activity and weight training into fitness routines designed for women.

10am-12pm. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Yoga Express. 12:15-1pm.

YMCA – 434.792.0621.

15/15/15 Fitness – 15 minutes of cardio, 15 minutes of weight training and 15 minutes of cardio.

A simple concept designed for maximum results. 5:30-6:30pm.

City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

February 6

Senior Bowling Tournament.

10am-12pm. Riverside Lanes.

434.791.2695.

Speaker Elizabeth (Liz) Dalton.

Wednesday Club. See story page 14.

February 6 & 20

Homeschool Wednesdays – Physical Sciences. 2/6-Matter: Structure/Properties; 2/20-Force

Kuumba-West African Dance – Live drumming and energetic dancing. TH Kids, 6-6:30pm; Adults, 6:30-7:45pm. City Armory.

434.797.8848.

Bluegrass Concert. TH 7pm.

Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115.

February 8

Chatham Concert Series – The Camden Consort: Renaissance and Baroque songs, dances and ballads. Admission is by donation.

7pm. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 66 North Main Street, Chatham. kstrings1@hotmail.com.

Valentine Candlelight Walk and Dinner - Stroll along the candlelit Crossing Bridge, listen to the River City Barbershop Quartet and enjoy a barbecue dinner 6-8pm. Community Market. 434.799.5215.

February 8, 9 & 19

A Raisin in the Sun. Gretna Little Theatre. See story page 14.

February 9

SPCA Wellness Clinic - Vaccines, microchips & heartworm testing.

8am-12pm. SPCA of MartinsvilleHenry County - 276.638.7297.

Snow Tube, Ski or Ride Trip – Wintergreen Ski Resort. 8am-6pm.

434.799.5215.

Storytelling Festival. DMFA&H. See story page 14.

Bids, Brew & Boil – Mardi Gras Celebration with music, adult beverages, live and silent auctions and a low country boil w/shrimp & grilled chicken. 6-11pm. Sacred

Evince Magazine Heart – 434.793.2656.

Magic of the Masters Magic Show – Church Night - group discounts to area churches and two free tickets for the pastor plus four free tickets for a needy family in the church.

Starring celebrity magician and World Champion Illusionist Wayne Alan. 8pm. North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

February 10 & 24

Let’s Talk about It Mysteries – Book reviews. Person County Public Library. 336.597.7881.

February 11

Crazy Quilt Lecture – Program on the Museum’s Crazy Quilt presented by local historian Clara Fountain.

11am. DMFA&H – 434.793.5644.

A Game Apart. Piedmont Arts.

See story page 14.

February 11 (thru March 5)

Art with Judie – Learn how to paint with oil or watercolor. M/TU - Times vary. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

February 11 (thru March 5)

Shag Dance Classes. Beginner & Intermediate. Ballou Rec Center.

434.797.8848.

February 12 & 26

Black History Month Guided Walking Tour – Holbrook-Ross Historic District. 2/12-2pm; 2/26-11:15am. $5. 434.770.1974. www.danvillehistoricalsociety.org.

February 12 (thru March 12)

Artisan Classes – Texturizing & Stamping Metal Jewelry, Embellishments and Fantastic Finishes, Wheel Thrown Pottery, Intermediate Digital Image Editing.

5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 13

Bookmark Craft. 3:30-4:30pm.

DPL-Westover – 434.799.5195.

Polliwogs & Science Stars.

Ages 3–4, 1–2pm. Ages 5–7, 3:30–4:30pm. DSC - 434.791.5160.

Bead Weaving: An Ancient Art Form in Modern Jewelry.

Wednesday Club. See story page 15.

African Dance Night. 6pm. Averett, Multipurpose Room. 434.791.7146.

February 13 (thru March 13)

Artisan Classes – Repurposing Clothing & Other Fabrics, Basic Glass Fusing. 5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 14

Homeschooler Program – Let’s Map It Out. NC state topography and the changing landscapes.

10am. Person County Public Library. 336.597.7881.

Senior Movie Day.11am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Teen Movie Night – Popcorn and lemonade will be served. Ages 13+.

4pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Love Is the Sweetest Thing – Dinner and a show of romantic music with the area’s top vocalists and dancers.

6:30pm. Little Theatre of Danville.

Stratford Conference Center.

434.792.5796. See ad page 19.

Elvis Night – An intimate evening with Elvis for Valentines. Featuring a

top Elvis impersonator. 8pm. North Theatre – 434.793.7469.

February 14 & 16

Commemoration of the Crossing of the Dan. Times vary. South Boston. See story page 8.

February 14 (thru March 14)

Intro to Fine Woodworking.

5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 15

All about Herbs - Sage. 5:30-8:30pm.

The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

The Marvelous Wonderettes – A cotton-candy colored, nonstop pop musical blast from the past.

7:30pm. Kirby Theater, Roxboro.

336.597.1709.

Rhythm of the Dance. 8pm.

Caswell County Civic Center.

336.694.4591. www.ccfta.org.

February 15 (thru 23)

Elvis Has Left the Building – A comedy where Elvis is missing, his manager, Colonel Parker, is on the hook to some mob bosses in Vegas for gambling debts and can only be saved by a live appearance from his star. 7:30pm/3pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

February 16

Winter Birding Tour. 9-10am.

Mayo Lake, NC. 336.597.7806.

Family Movie Matinee – Movies, pop-corn and lemonade. 10:30am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

SPCA Fur Ball - Dinner, drinks, dancing and live music. 6:30pm.

Chatmoss Country Club. SPCA of Martinsville-Henry County 276.638.7297.

concerned with cancer prevention & survivorship. 11:30am-1pm. First Presbyterian Church. 434.766.6650.

Vegetable Gardening – Learn about planning and maintenance.

6:30pm. DPL. 434.797.8848.

Sky Watchers. Nightfall.

DSC – 434.791.5160.

February 21 (thru 23)

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged. 7:30pm.

Pritchett Auditorium, Averett.

434.791.5712. See ad page 12

February 21 & 28

Climbing Basics – Learn holds and moves on three routes of progressive difficulty. Ages 9+. 6-8pm. Coates Rec. Center. 434.799.5215.

February 23

Mario Kart Tournament Finale – Show your Mario Kart skills and win prizes and glory. All ages. 11am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Spring Peepers & Salamanders – Discover spring peepers, salamander egg clusters, and other delightful creatures. Ages 6+. 1-3pm. Dan Daniel Memorial Park. 434.799.5215.

February 24

Open House New Executive Director Meet & Greet. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History.

See story page 15.

February 25

Gospel Night. 7pm. Pritchett Auditorium, Averett. 434.791.5681.

February 26

February 18 & 19

Ladies in Retirement Audition.

Gretna Center for the Arts.

434.656.3637.

What the Craft? Book Club. Ages 10+. 4-5pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

DRF Speaker Series Bill Strickland. See ad page 8.

Around the World in 80 Days – Jules Verne’s famous tale of ships, trains, and caravans. 7:30pm.

The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

February 19

February 27

African Folktales. 4-5pm. Person Co. Public Library. 336.597.7881.

February 19 (thru March 14)

Beginning Swimming Adventures – Designed for children who have no prior swimming experience or who are just learning to swim. Classes feature water games, floating and basic swimming strokes. Ages 6-12. TU/TH 3:30-4:15pm. YMCA. 434.799.5215.

February 20

Wayne Alan’s Magical Meatless Meals Cooking Show. Wednesday Club. See story page 15.

The Historical African-American Cemeteries of Central Virginia.

Danville Historical Society. See story page 15.

February 20 (thru March 13)

Doodle Bugs – Physical ScienceMatter. Ages 3-5. 10am & 3pm.

VMNH – 276.634.4185.

Health Awareness Day. 11am-2pm. Averett, Multipurpose Room. 434.791.5788.

February 27 (thru March 21)

Sign Language Classes.

W 5:15-6 pm. Ballou Rec Center – 434.799.5216.

February 28

Adult Book Lunch Meeting.

12-1pm. Person County Public Library. 336.597.7881.

Upcoming Events March 1

First Friday Art Walk. 5-7pm. Studio 107, Martinsville – 276.638.2107.

Youth Adventure Series – Discover exciting challenges in the great outdoors including camping, hiking and rock climbing. Ages 8-12. 3:305pm. Ballou Park. 434.799.5215.

March 2

February 21

Richmond Ballet II. 7:30pm.

The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

Senior Bingo. 11am-12pm.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Keeping Well in Mind, Body and Spirit – A program series for those

Mardi Gras Speakeasy. Danville Historical Society. See story page 15.

March 6

Page 17

March 7

Bob Ross Painting Class. 9am.

Piedmont Arts Association (PAA), Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Afterschoolers Book Club.

4-5pm. Person County Public Library. 336.597.7881.

March 9

Green Legs & Hamstrings Trail Run. See bullet page 3.

Bowl for Kids’Sake. Big Brothers Big Sisters. 1-4pm. Riverside Lanes.

434.792.3700. See ad page 20.

Richmond Ballet II. 7pm.

Martinsville HS Auditorium. PAA, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Standing in the Shadows of the Four Tops. Caswell County Civic Center. See ad page 5.

March 10 & 24

Let’s Talk about It Mysteries – Book reviews. Person County Public Library. 336.597.7881.

March 11 (thru April 7)

Student Art Show. 7:30pm. Student Center, Averett. 434.791.5600.

March 13

Polliwogs & Science Stars.

Ages 3–4, 1–2pm. Ages 5–7, 3:30– 4:30pm. DSC - 434.791.5160.

March 14

Homeschooler Program. 10am.

Person County Public Library.

336.597.7881.

March 15

Sixth Floor Trio. Danville Concert Association. See ad page 4.

March 16

Shamrock 5K Race – Benefit for The Free Clinic of Danville. Riverwalk Trail. 434.799.1223.

3D with E.D. – Additive Sculpture – Students will explore additive techniques in a variety of accessible/ affordable materials such as mat board, cardboard, paraffin and hot glue. 10am-3pm. PAA, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Sixth Floor Trio. Danville Concert Association. See ad page 4.

March 17

Sarah Furgurson’s Home Movies – Past president of DHS, teacher and librarian at Blairs Middle School. These home movies of parades and scenes of Danville (including her kindergarten on North Ridge Street) from 1950-1972 will be shown on the big screen. 3-5pm.

Former Main Street Methodist Church. 434.250.0067.

March 22

Sing-a-Long Sound of Music – See the classic movie on the big screen and sing with the audience using subtitles for all the songs.

7pm. Rives Theatre. PAA – 276.632.3221.

March 22, 23 & 24

Pirates of the Chemotherapy.

7:30pm/3pm. The Kirby Theater – 336.597.1709.

March 26

1859 Coffeehouse Lecture Series.

7pm. Averett, Multipurpose Room.

434.791.7189.

Page 18

February 2013

Comprehensive Care for Our Region www.DRMCCares.com A

B

C

D

E

F G

H

Support the Chatham Project

I

J

K

Go to www.DRMCCares.com

Evince Magazine Life is an adventure. What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?

That’s a powerful question. Even posing it requires courage.

I’ve been thinking about what our son David said to me over his winter break from college. He was trying to teach me about technology and computers and as usual, I wasn’t understanding. “Why do we have to do this? Why can’t we just keep doing it the old way, because I know how to do it that way and it makes sense to me?” I asked. He responded that I never try things outside my comfort zone. At first, I felt outraged. After all, who’d just taken him on his first-ever zip-lining tour to make his winter break more memorable? Who had tripped over her numb-with-cold feet and fallen flat on her face on that first swaying rope bridge, somehow pulling herself back up by hanging onto those safety lines rated (thank goodness) for up to 5,000 pounds, then duck-waddling to safety? Who’d crept ever so slowly across those last two swinging rope bridges, each higher and more swaying than the last, when all she’d wanted to do after falling was cling with a death grip to solid Mother Earth? Me, me, and me.

Who had arranged to borrow electric bikes while he was home?

Me. Danville is part of a national initiative to introduce e-bikes to the public as a reasonable, affordable transportation alternative that radically reduces the carbon footprint of within-city commuters. Using e-bikes promotes living a healthier lifestyle. They’re amazing and great fun besides. And who had dragged Dave off to another city to see a microbrewery so we could learn more about making specialty beers, then on to the sister microbrewery housed in an old movie theatre? Me. Imagine rows of seats, with every other row missing and in their place foot-wide plank tables mounted on

Reflecting Forward The Voice of Adventure

by Linda Lemery

poles. Next, imagine ordering food from the bar, then eating dinner while watching the $3 movie, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The dine-in option was fabulous.

All these adventures – zip lining, riding e-bikes, touring microbreweries -- are way outside my comfort zone.

His comment really nagged at me until I realized that it was a matter of perspective and leadership.

From my son’s perspective, these experiences were not outside my comfort zone because I had initiated them. Therefore, in his mind, I was probably comfortable with them, while in reality, I was not. The real story is that zip lining and swaying rope bridges scare me because I’m terribly afraid of heights; I’m pushing hard with e-bikes to promote regular exercise for someone living

David, Steve and Linda Lemery enjoy another adventure.

with a frightening reduction in lung capacity and in the shadow of losing more; and while I don’t drink much and am not a beer aficionado, the idea of touring microbreweries comes from a deep-seated interest in economic development and examining the characteristics of cities that are building thriving, expanding economies and the amenities they have to offer. These activities were all outside my comfort zone, but I hadn’t communicated that.

So, I learned a lot from this reflection: the need for clearer communication, the need to share my fears, the need to try to see things from other people’s perspectives. Especially, I learned the need to find the courage to follow our son’s lead into this baffling world of technology, so that he can better understand -- from the perspective of someone entrenched in his own comfort zone -- that I really do try things that are way outside mine. That’s my newest and somewhat unnerving adventure: to trust his expertise and follow his lead.

It takes courage to live our lives and step outside our comfort zones. It takes more courage to ask ourselves that powerful question in the first paragraph. Actually answering it -- and finding the courage to act on it -- can be life-defining. Not only is life an adventure, folks. The real, daily adventure is life.

About the Author: Linda Lemery llemery@averett.edu writes when she can, works as Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville, wishes readers a happy Valentine’s Day, and welcomes their comments.

Page 19

Page 20

February 2013

My Winter Fitness Adventure

If I can conquer huge emotional obstacles (like the passing of my father, my grandmother, and the deaths of friends and clients to cancer during the past 5 years) and life’s challenges plus obesity as a teenager then anyone can do it.

by Dave Gluhareff MFS,CFT-ISSA I have an adventure to share – it’s the most extreme obstacle course race in the world! Only 50 of us from around the world have been invited to participate in Nicaragua’s Fuego y Agua Survival Run. At 4:00 a.m. on February 16th, racers will embark on 70km+ of the most brutal obstacle course that will make regular ultrarunning and obstacle course racing look easy. Much of the course takes place on the slopes of Volcan Maderas. Participants will race across volcanic jungle slopes, cloud forest, coffee and banana plantations, jungle rivers, white sand beach, islands, a volcanic crater lagoon and more. Along with several ascents and descents of the Maderas Volcano, runners will be challenged with climbing, swimming, digging, throwing, memorizing, carrying things,

running brutal terrain and trying to survive. Why am I doing this?

Competing in these races helps me to inspire, motivate and provide hope and encouragement to anyone who’s struggling with weight or self-esteem problems and to show that even an introverted, shy, cautious, scared, obese boy can be transformed into a healthy athlete.

I was not blessed with a lean athletic body, but I worked hard to get to where I am. I have had the same life challenges others experienced, maybe more than most, but I took action and overcame those and still maintained a healthy weight. I keep testing myself with new goals to reach greater fitness heights. I love life and I want to experience all it has to offer. My world revolves around my health. If I do not take care of myself then I cannot fully enjoy the life God blessed me with.

I can be a better person, a better father to my boys, a better son, a better businessman, a better role model to my clients and readers. I can do it...and if I can do it then so can you.

Thank you for supporting me in this competition and keep an eye on the news at

Evince Magazine

Photo of the Abner and Leanna Garland-Phelps homestead by Rita Lea

Exploring on a History-Filled Adventure

by Mack Williams For this adventure-themed Evince, I recount a 2010 exploration accompanying my friend, Rita Lea, on a search for physical remnants of her heritage in a forested area near the Doll Branch Road in Milton, North Carolina. Each of us contains the living and breathing genetic relics of our familial path to today, but there are other remains, inorganic.

We explored the ruin of a home built around 1880. The driveway to the house was still traceable despite a natural covering.

Nearby, was a rectangular area once representing a vegetable garden, its orderly plantings long since replaced by nature’s random sowings. We also saw perennial, yard-planted decorative plants, untrimmed and massively overgrown.

A fieldstone chimney was all that remained above ground of the home, except for a few old-style bricks, the surrounding earth being hard, rocky, and mostly sealed with clumps of thick moss.

Above the former hearth reached

the time-shortened chimney’s vertically-puttied stones (the longhardened, aged putty became sand with a fingernail’s scratch).

With time, the chimney had grown shorter as the yard’s trees had grown fatter. Both house and chimney were once two-storied, the chimney now only the height of a tall man.

Standing at the ruined chimney, we occupied once-personal, family space, but Rita was their kin, so I felt no ill will, nor ill wind from beyond. The area once assigned to second-floor bedrooms is now only a moving picture of slowly passing clouds and blue sky framed with leaves and limbs.

What a peaceful place to sleep, in those clouds and sky, not just for a lifetime of nights, but forever.

In that subtle, Sunday-afternoon, history-filled adventure, we found a few of my friend’s building blocks, not in DNA’s doublehelix, but stacked vertically in an old chimney near Milton, North Carolina, within a forest, not far off of the Doll Branch Road.

Page 21

Page 22

February 2013

Book Clubbing A review by Lee Wayland

Redirect

by Timothy D. Wilson

In recent years, Danville has changed from being a white male-dominated society with a few big scale businesses employing large numbers of people with limited education and skills to a much broader based society with a need for welleducated, trained employees in smaller, but higherpaying, technologybased businesses.

Many of our citizens maintain the mindset of the old society and are negative and pessimistic. More forward-looking organizations are attempting to change the outdated mindset to create a more positive and optimistic one. One way to accomplish that goal is with a community read of Redirect by Timothy D. Wilson, a professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia.

The main premise of Redirect is that everyone is writing a life story. This core narrative is shaped by fundamental beliefs and determines how events are interpreted. Wilson says, “We all have personal stories; we just have to change them from the negative to the positive. In doing so, we can live better lives and build a better future. Redirect focuses on changing negative attitudes into positive ones. This is important as pessimistic thoughts often lead to negative behaviors.” As the Dan River Region recreates itself, it is important that its citizens have a positive mindset so that the future can be better than the past.

Wilson defines changes made in one’s life as editing a life story and believes that small edits can produce lasting changes. He recommends the scientific method of testing ideas for life improvements to see if they really work. Many ideas sound good but do not produce the desired results and should be abandoned in favor of more effective ideas.

Wilson addresses seven problems in our society: shaping our life’s narrative, shaping our children’s narrative, preventing teenage pregnancies, reducing teenage violence, reducing alcohol and drug abuse, reducing prejudice and closing the achievement gap. On each of these subjects he discusses things that don’t work and gives recommendations that will work, at least to some degree.

• An apropos quote: “A bad attitude is like a flat tire, you can’t go anywhere until you change it.”

• This read is being sponsored by the Dan Regional Foundation, Averett University, the Kiwanis Club of Danville and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The sponsors have made the book available at the Averett Bookstore, 354 West Main Street, for a special price of $10.00.

• The AU Bookstore is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 3:00 p.m.

A review by Joyce Wilburn

Life Is an Adventure

by Lynda Parham

Kayaking, backpacking, hiking and traveling have brought a lot of adventure into author Lynda Parham’s life, but the roller coaster ride of health has given her more. In 1996, the Chesterfield County, Virginia native developed neurological symptoms that mimic multiple sclerosis (MS).

The illness continues to be undiagnosed because when she is tested for MS, the results are always negative. During major relapses, she cannot walk for a week or two and that is followed by the grueling process of rebuilding her strength. Fortunately, since moving to Danville five years ago, the remissions have been lengthy.

While struggling with this life-defining illness, Lynda sought answers to unspoken questions and meaningful ways to endure the suffering.

Searching within her soul, she began to write in a journal and soon thereafter, the book was born. “I used my journals as a base and built on that foundation,” she says and then continues, “I wanted to encourage others to find the light in the darkness, even while I was in the midst of the chaos of my life.”

This short 186 page book provides biblical inspiration for real life application. Each of the 11 chapters can be read independently.

Poems, prayers and scripture references provide the reader with additional encouragement and guidance on life’s journey. Lynda believes that everyone should live life joyfully and adventurously.

This book will show you how.

• For more information on Life Is an Adventure visit www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore or call 888.361.9473 • Lynda will be signing books on Saturday, March 9, at 2:00 p.m. in the Barnes & Noble, 3125 Waltham Boulevard, Burlington, North Carolina.

• For additional information, visit www.lyndaparham.com or call 434.549.1146.

Send information about what you or your book club is reading to joycewilburn@gmail.com. Also, visit www.danvillelibrary.org to see more reviews of this book and others. Add your own review and start a virtual book club!

Evince Magazine

Super Comfort Food

by Annelle Williams

The cold months of winter are the perfect time for comfort food. We need to fortify ourselves with foods that give us a big hug and at the same time add ingredients that give our health a boost. Do you remember the Super Foods? They have more nutrients than their counterparts and some offer a particular protection we don’t find anywhere else. Of course, natural nutrients are far better than supplements.

Here’s a list I copied years ago to remind me of the most important Super Food categories: • beans: low-fat protein and soluble fiber • lentils: complex carbs, thiamin, vitamin B6, folate, iron, zinc and potassium, low protein; heart healthy • blueberries: antioxidants; brain food • broccoli: fiber, complex carbs • green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale: Vitamin B; eye health • oats: complex carbs, soluble fiber; decreases cholesterol • oranges: antioxidants, Vitamin C, folic acid, potassium • sweet potatoes: high beta-carotene; a strong anti-oxidant • wild salmon: omega-3 fatty acids; reduces coronary artery disease • tea, green or black: healthy flavonoids; may reduce cancer risks • tomatoes: lycopene • turkey: low fat protein, zinc; may reduce some cancer risks • walnuts: protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals; may reduce heart disease • yogurt: calcium, protein, magnesium, many vitamins Add a Super Food or two to your next comfort recipe. It will make last month’s resolutions for health and fitness easier to keep.

Super Vegetable Beef Soup 2 lbs. beef, cut into bite-sized pieces and seasoned with salt and pepper 2 T extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tsp.

2 sweet onions, halved and sliced 3 celery stalks, roughly chopped 4-5 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 4 cups beef broth, or more if needed, divided 2 (15 oz.) cans diced tomatoes

2 tsp. dried basil 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. garlic powder 2 slices bacon, diced 1 bag (10 oz.) frozen green beans 1 bag (10 oz.) frozen baby limas 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes half a small cabbage, thinly sliced

Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large soup pot over mediumhigh heat. Add the beef and turn to brown on all sides. Reduce heat to medium and add onions, celery and carrots. Stir and cook vegetables for a couple of minutes, then add 2 cups broth and the tomatoes, basil, oregano and garlic powder. Reduce heat to low simmer; cover pot and cook for about an hour until beef is tender.

In a smaller pot, add the teaspoon of olive oil and bacon over medium heat. Cook bacon for 2-3 minutes. Add green beans and limas. Toss beans with bacon and drippings; add the remaining 2 cups beef broth.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low simmer, cover and cook for 15 minutes until beans are tender. When beef is tender, add everything in the bean pot to the big soup pot. Add the potatoes and cabbage and stir to combine. If soup seems too thick, add more beef broth. Cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes more.

For more pictures and recipes, visit my blog: http://aroundannellestable.blogspot.com.

Page 23