Evince 214 4web

Keeping My Promise to Luke the Pug Page 9

Yvonne & Steve Parrish’s Why Are There Fire Trucks at a Medical Emergency?

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Unusual Date Night Page 3

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February 2014

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Editor’s Note

Yes, that’s me in the picture playing Superman in the Costa Rican rain forest instead of working last month. Writer Crystal Gregory and photographer Michelle Dalton promised that they could handle Evince for a week in my absence and they did.

First, they found Vivian, Steve, and Peyton Parris pictured on the cover. The trio represents 120 members of the Danville Life Saving Crew who have pledged to drop everything if you ever need help in a medical emergency.

Their story is on page 3. The next stop was at a fire station to ask Why Are There Fire Trucks at a Medical Emergency? and found EMTs who have promised to arrive within minutes of a developing crisis (page 22).

Promises of love are made frequently this month especially on Valentine’s Day. Before you make one, read Linda Lemery’s Promise & Promises: Built on Trust (page 21). Even pinky swears are binding. Kim Clifton explains in Second Thoughts on page 11.

Ever the optimist, Mack Williams can find promise and beauty in the destruction of the Schoolfield Mill (page 28). Young mother Britta Petrich acknowledges that attention to her pet has waned since the babies arrived but she promises to change that and it’s in writing on page 9! Stephanie Ferrugia is making promises to herself and to you about eating healthier. See page7.

I found another message about promises while reading SkyMall on the flight home: Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think (Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh). That’s good advice for all of us. I promise.

February Contents Editor’s Note

3

Yvonne & Steve Parrish’s Unusual Date Night

by Crystal Gregory

4

She Said He Said / You, Me and Valentine’s Day

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

5

The Voice of Readers

7

I Promise You & Myself / by Stephanie Ferrugia

9

Keeping My Promise to Luke the Pug / by Britta Petrich Dr. Jeff The Family Vet / by Dr. Jeff Smith

11 Second Thoughts / Promises, Promises

by Kim Clifton 13 Gate / Fiction / by Telisha Moore Leigg 14 Calendar Clips 16 Need to Talk? / Spiritual Direction Sessions Available 18 Calendar 20 223rd Anniversary of the Crossing of the Dan

by Larry Aaron 21 Reflecting Forward Promise and Promises: Built on Trust

by Linda Lemery 22 Why Are There Fire Trucks at a Medical Emergency?

by Crystal Gregory 24 Book Clubbing Choosing Civility: The 25 Rules of Considerate Conduct a review by Diane Adkins 25 Around the Table / The Promise of Love

by Annelle Williams 26 Where Can I Find an Evince?

27 PCP Library Special Events 28 Destruction’s Promise / by Mack Williams 29 Artist Robert Marsh / Returning after 30 Years to the DMFAH

by Patsi Compton

On the Cover:

Cover photos of EMTs and firemen

by Michelle Dalton Photography.

See stories on page 3 and 20.

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

President 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 Larry Aaron, Diane Adkins, Cara Burton, Kim Clifton, Patsi Compton, Stephanie Ferrugia, Joyce Fuquay, Crystal Gregory, Mimi Grubb, Dena Hill, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Lauren Mathena, Fred Motley, Larry Oldham, Britta Petrich, Jeff Smith, Melanie Vaughan, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams, Cindy Zook

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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.

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12 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service / by Cindy Zook

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Larry Aaron is the fifth great grandson of Abraham Aaron of Pittsylvania County, who assisted Greene’s troops when they crossed the Dan. He is also the author of The Race to the Dan: The Retreat that Rescued the American Revolution available at the Prizery in South Boston and at Karen’s Hallmark in the Danville Mall.

Cindy Zook is a Realtor with Prudential Manasco Realty

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extends beyond “the city/county limits.” For instance, they have encountered many situations, even on vacations, that called on them to use their medical expertise. Last summer at Myrtle Beach, a man fell ill and they gave him CPR until the medics arrived.

Remembering the experience, Yvonne says, “It is so rewarding to be able to help someone in need at any time.”

Both Yvonne and Steve also have been able to use their skills to assist family members, and the emphasis on medical service has influenced their other two children. They have both chosen medical careers. Moreover, despite the inconveniences, Yvonne says, “We always have fun together.” Their times on duty are their “date nights.”

Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography

Yvonne & Steve Parrish’s Unusual Date Night

by Crystal Gregory

“C

onstantly rewarding!” that’s how the first husband-wife-anddaughter team describes serving together on the Danville Life Saving Crew. Yvonne and Steve Parrish, who met in the emergency room when they were young EMTs and who have served together for more than two decades, are delighted that their daughter Peyton, a sophomore at James Madison University, has joined them.

All three are proud to be part of what they describe as an extended family--120 other dedicated volunteers who are bound together by the stresses of medical emergencies, long hours spent away from home and constant training. Such intense service is, as Yvonne explains, “a commitment.” For example, there have been many ball games when she and Steve needed to drag along their duty team or bring a rescue truck so they could see their children play. Nevertheless, because the Crew is family, people cooperate and help each other.

Yvonne says, and her husband and daughter nod in agreement, “I love everybody here.”

Before becoming a Crew member, Steve recalls feeling useless at the scene of a horrible automobile accident. So, in 1977 when he was only 20 years old, he joined the squad. Now, certified as a

paramedic, he has also served as Chief of the Crew. Yvonne had a similar experience. She too witnessed a horrible accident and began volunteering with the Chatham Life Saving Crew. She joined Danville’s Crew in 1992.

Both are grateful for their Crew experiences, and as Yvonne points out, the benefit of their training

Yvonne, Steve, and Peyton emphasize that service on the Crew gives back much more than the stress it causes. Friendships and the satisfaction gained from helping are in Yvonne’s words, “a wonderful honor and privilege.” And Peyton hopes that the community will continue to appreciate the commitment of Crew members. They are willing to interrupt everything in their personal lives in order to reach out and save the lives of others.

They care and many times that care is more than medical. It may be holding someone’s hand, giving a hug to say, “It will be ok,” or even offering to pray. “People do,” as Steve emphasizes, “want to help.”

• Would you like to serve on the Danville Life Saving Crew? Call Executive Director Tommy Pruitt at 434.792.CREW (2739) or visit www.dlsc.org.

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February 2014

SHE SAID

HE SAID

by Dena Hill

by Larry Oldham

You, Me and Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day is going to be great this year. My sister and I took the bull by the horns and made reservations at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Greensboro for dinner. So you and my brother-in-law can treat us like the queens we are. I didn’t want to risk receiving a single rose with a note telling me how lucky I am to have you for my Valentine.

Why should I feel guilty? I believe you answered your own question. You and your sister should go out to eat since you already have the reservations.

So you don’t want a single rose?

Everyone knows that a single rose means I love you. You’re nipping that in the bud too!

When a man comes home from work (even if it is Valentine’s Day) and there are no meat and potatoes on the table, he is likely to be a little grouchy.

Add to that a funny looking cake and even McDonald’s is more appealing.

She said He Said

One year I came home from work and made a special dinner ending with a heart-shaped cake and you said you would rather have gone out to eat. I didn’t even earn an “E” for effort that year. Then once when I told you not to buy candy for Photo by Michelle Dalton me because Photography.

I was dieting, you actually took me at my word! I love chocolate and a little candy on Valentine’s Day wouldn’t have ruined my diet. Read between the lines, dear heart. Besides, candy manufacturers make sugar-free confections in case you wanted to play it safe. If you need some ideas for future reference, you could consider a romantic evening with dining and dancing, bubbles, dressy clothes, perfume and a chauffeured limo.

You could also go online and find a c oncert with Michael Bublé or Adam Levine from The Voice. I really would enjoy listening and drooling over either one of them. If none of these suggestions appeals to you, let me know and I’ll do what I did at Christmas. I’ll shop for my own present, wrap it and hand you the receipt. It takes the mystique out of a special day but at least we wouldn’t have to exchange anything and I’ll receive something I like. By the way, I already have your surprise and I’ve spent hours and hours shopping for just the right gift to show you how much I love you. Now, don’t you feel guilty?

Next, you chastise me for not buying you candy after you explicitly told me not to.

Can’t you see the dichotomy there? We don’t live in sunny California and I doubt you could find a limo, bubbles or dancing mid-week in Danville. The perfume you could pick up in any fiveand-dime, I am sure. As far as Michael Bubble (there you go... you got your bubbles) and Andy Devine, I am sure that you and your sister would enjoy their howling more than my brotherin-law and I. You seem to enjoy picking out your own present, buying and wrapping it yourself, so who am I to question your judgment? All of that works for me. I am sure you went to a lot of trouble going online to find me the perfect Amazon gift. Putting all kidding aside, I love your plan and you know I live to make you happy.

My gift to you this year will be that you receive all your wishes and I just ask that you and your sister be careful.

Watch what you eat at Ruth’s Chris, because their menu items are really fattening. Happy Valentine’s from a man who only wants to please his wife. I love you.

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

Evince Magazine

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The Voice of Readers To the Editor: In response to the Danville Historical Society contest (January 2014 page 19), the picture is of the plaque dedicated to Balthazar above the front entrance to the Church of the Epiphany on Main Street. Balthazar was one of the magi (three kings) from the East to visit and present a gift to the Christ Child in Bethlehem.

I remember the plaque vividly.

Several years ago, I noticed that a bird had built a nest behind the plaque and on a Sunday afternoon after playing tennis, I went to take pictures of it. To make a long story short, I entered the church clad only in tennis clothes, found a ladder, lugged it up the street, and was snapping away, when the police arrived. I had either forgotten the code or had entered it incorrectly to disarm the burglar/ fire alarm. Needless to say, I was a person of concern to the police with no identification until I called a good friend to identify me and rescue me. All worked out well, however, and we had a good laugh.

Dick Alwood Church of the Epiphany Member & former Treasurer Congratulations on winning a DHS guided walking tour! Check page 30 for a picture that was taken of you at Corks & Forks. You are a busy man.

To the Editor: I want you to pass on to Kim Clifton how much I enjoyed reading Second Thoughts in the Evince magazine. Perchance to Dream (January 2014 page11) was a hilarious article and I enjoyed reading every word. I have no problems sleeping; however, my husband has the same struggles that Kim has. I cannot wait for him to read this article as it fits him to a T.

Let Your Wallet Fall In Love!

I always read Mrs. Clifton’s articles and enjoy her sense of humor. She is an asset to your magazine.

Sincerely, Lisa Y. Johnsony

To the Editor: We loved the Second Thoughts article Thanks for the Memories/ R.L. Clifton (November 2013 page 9). Thank you for writing this wonderful story of Memory Lane getting harder and harder to travel for RL...pray it is always covered with soft sand and sea shells. Love and respect him.

Bobby and Sue Hardy Pace

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February 2014

Evince Magazine

Ciji Moore and Stephanie promise to eat more fruits and vegetables this year.

Photo by Von Wellington.

I Promise You and Myself

by Stephanie Ferrugia Program Director, Get Fit Dan River Region Much like candy hearts and paper Valentines, promises give us a warm fuzzy feeling and fill our hearts with hope. That is, until we break them.

As your Get Fit friends, we do our very best to practice what we preach on the health front. Many of you get a kick out of seeing us sip water straight from gallon jugs, or if you see us in a buffet line, you’ll ask us not to look at your plates. (Side note: We’re not judging..promise!) We take our health message very seriously and try to follow our own advice. So, you can imagine when recently I was sitting on my sofa, stuffing my face with Pringles and a wedge of cheese, I started feeling a little guilty.

One personal and professional promise I’ve made is to pair a fruit or veggie with any meal or snack. Pringles and Babybel cheese? There was nary a piece of produce in sight. Suddenly, my tasty snack wasn’t quite as appealing when it dawned on me that I was breaking a promise

not only to myself, but also to you.

So, I hopped up, sliced an apple, and you know what? The nutritional value of my little snack changed for the better and so did the overall taste. The sweetness of the apple perfectly complemented the saltiness of the chips and the cheese rounded off my snack in the best possible way. I enjoyed every guilt-free bite of white cheese, multigrain chips and a scrumptious red apple. Yes, and I kept my promise. It was that simple. Make realistic promises to take care of yourself by: • eating breakfast • drinking more water • pairing fruits and/or veggies with whatever you eat • standing up and moving your body every hour.

More importantly, keep those promises and share them with your loved ones, not just this month, but all year long.

Stay healthy and fit, Dan River Region.

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February 2014

A heart attack can be a real pain in the neck (as well as the arm, back, jaw or stomach).

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Should you need emergency heart attack care, Danville Regional provides comprehensive heart care, right here in Danville. Through Danville’s affiliation with Duke Medicine, a leader in defining emergency heart care standards, DRMC’s care is based on national standards and guided by Duke Medicine.

DRMC’s cardiovascular services include open heart and valve surgery, lung and vascular procedures, diagnostic and treatment catheterizations, pacemaker and automated defibrillator insertion and management, multiple cardiac diagnostic imaging services, and cardiac rehabilitation.

February is Heart Month

DanvilleRegional.com

Evince Magazine

Luke the Pug and Britta in 2008 - The Glory Days

Keeping My Promise to Luke the Pug

by Britta Petrich In 2007 I adopted a dog, affectionately known as Luke the Pug. He was somewhat of a lost soul and wandered the streets when his owners were away or lost track of him.

Luke and I instantly formed a mutual liking for one another during encounters in the neighborhood.

One day after a series of runins, Luke’s original owners ended up giving him to me so I could “give him the kind of love he deserves.” From that day forward, I promised Luke the Pug that I would take care of him. At the time I was single, childless, and in deep need of a companion. It’s no surprise that Luke quickly fit that bill. I gave him a better life and in return he thanked me with pug kisses, curly tail wags, head cocks of understanding, and googly eyelocks filled with compassion.

Ahh yes, we even shared a pillow in those days.

Now almost seven years later I have a husband and two very dependent children who consume a large piece of the pie that makes up my time.

Luke’s piece of the pie has become drastically smaller just as our long walks together in the park have become few and far between. Of course I (now we) still love him, but “Did you

feed Luke today?” or “When was the last time you let Luke out?” have become far-too-regular questions that my husband and I ask each other. Poor Luke the Pug, although never completely forgotten and still the forever loyal companion, has gotten slightly nudged to the side.

A few weeks ago a friend sent me a text picture of a pug T-shirt that read “Pugs and kisses” because she knew I would laugh. You see, pugs are a long-known lovable breed, even said to have been treated like royalty in ancient China where they originated.

Their goofy faces and unique tails beg for the limelight. They often show up on T-shirts, cards and in movies. Did you know there is even a Facebook group called Pugs not drugs?

So despite Luke’s bad breath and his short-muzzled face that made my cousin remark, “Luke has a face only a mother could love,” he still has my heart. He has brought the best kind of love into my life, and he can still easily enamor all he meets with his distinctive wrinkles and concerned expression. Not to mention his good sense of humor.

This February, I have decided it is time to recommit to the promise I made in 2007 and give Luke more of that love he deserves. That

is why on February 14th, I will simply ask him: Luke the Pug, will you be my Valentine?

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February 2014

Evince Magazine With Valentine’s Day on the calendar, February isn’t just about promises.

It’s also about love. The two go hand-in-hand. Soon my nephew and his fiancée will be walking down the aisle. Like millions before them, they will vow that there is no one else they would rather be with in this life. It won’t simply be words. It’ll be the truth. If ever two people were meant to be married, it is Jessica and Phillip. My family could not have handpicked a more perfect woman than she to be his bride. To this end, our blended families offer them a few promises of our own.

Bride-to-be, Jessica Edwards, and future husband, Phillip Gardner, beam with happiness.

Second Thoughts

by Kim Clifton ©2014

Promises, Promises Evince has proclaimed February’s theme as the Voice of Promise.

The word promise can mean one of two things. The first suggests potential, as in, “Watch that kid on first base. He’s got a lot of promise.” The second meaning is about keeping your word and is the focus I’ve chosen for this column.

I’ve made a lot of promises through the years and am proud to report that I’ve kept most of them.

That may have something to do with the consequences of breaking a vow in my neighborhood as a kid. If we wanted to make sure that our trust wouldn’t be compromised, we sealed it with a pinky swear. A pinky swear is when the parties involved locked little fingers and pulled. There is nothing more sacred than this, especially if you announce your age in single digits and need help tying your shoes.

I knew better than to break a pinky swear because the punishment was pretty severe.

We policed ourselves, so the sentences handed out were much harsher than if an adult had

been consulted. To violate a pinky swear meant finding yourself on the receiving end of a wedgie. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, let me put this as delicately as I know how for polite conversation. A wedgie means your undergarments are repositioned in such a way that cotton buries in crevices your body would rather it didn’t.

Make no mistake. I’m far from perfect and have disappointed many people, especially my mother. I’ve come home plenty of times to find a clean room even after I’d left a note of assurance that I would pick up my jeans when I got off work. Looking back, she saved more than her share of cats, parakeets, gerbils, and pups that she didn’t want, but I did. The same ones that I had promised to water and feed daily, but hadn’t.

Higher powers offer pledges to us as well. After storms, the Lord sometimes sends a rainbow. It promises that the earth will never be destroyed again by flood. Whether you believe that or not is really immaterial. Turns out we’re quite capable of destroying our world without Divine Intervention.

We promise to remember that you will become your own family unit.

We promise to share you at holidays and to begin new traditions because we understand that you have more homes to visit. We promise to step back, should the time come, and let you raise your children the way that you see fit. We promise to live and let live, keeping your business as yours and not ours. We promise that we will let you keep your front door shut. Ours, along with our hearts, will always be opened for you.

Even though we may have already travelled the same roads you’re

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about to take, we promise to stay silent, just as our families were for us at your age. This is your time to begin your life together. This is your time to feed your own pets and pick up your own jeans. This is your time to decide whether or not you believe in the promise of rainbows. After you exchange rings and join hands, we know that this new chapter in your life is yours to write, not ours.

We promise to remember that.

We pinky swear.

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February 2014

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Assistant Manager of South Main Street O’Kelly’s, Kriston Mitchell, and owner Joe Kelly are ready to serve another tray of delicious cinnamon rolls.

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 Cindy Zook I would like to nominate Joe Kelly and Kriston Mitchell at O’Kelly’s for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award. Here’s my story: Friday, December 13th, dawned as most. The big plan for the day was to leave around 4:00 p.m. to visit our son and his family in Morganton, North Carolina. It had been a very difficult week for our two youngest grandbabies, who had been very sick, so the planned early Christmas celebration that was to include our daughter and her family had been scrapped. We decided to go ahead and make the trip and take the three-year-old to Santa’s Breakfast in downtown Morganton the next morning.

My husband and I had a few glitches that ominous day, but we were finally on our way around 5:00 p.m.. We stopped for dinner at O’Kelly’s on South Main Street across from Danville Community College because it was convenient to Route 29 and we always enjoy their food. After eating, we joined our three dogs anxiously waiting in the truck and we finally left town. At 9:30 p.m. we pulled into our son’s driveway and started grabbing things to take into the house. Lo and behold, my purse was missing!

Panicking, I quickly went through the mental Rolodex and realized I had left it at O’Kelly’s. The number for the main branch on Piney Forest Road was in my cell phone, so I called and was pleasantly surprised when Joe Kelly answered, because it was after the 8 p.m. closing time. I told him what I had done and he said he would call Kriston, who had waited on us, and ask if the purse had been turned in. He called back and said she had put it in a safe location and I could pick it up the next day. I told him we wouldn’t be returning until Sunday when they were closed and would pick it up on Monday.

On Sunday afternoon around 5:00 p.m., Joe called to say he would open the store and I could retrieve my purse. When I arrived and he handed it to me, I was very grateful that everything was intact and safe and overwhelmed by his generosity of time in assisting me and his understanding of the situation.

I am also very grateful to Kriston, who spotted my purse under the table and put it in a safe location. Count my husband and me as forever loyal customers of O’Kelly’s!

Evince Magazine Three deacons and four trustees had a meeting at the church on a Thursday night and didn’t tell Pastor Jones. Newest Deacon Earlan Washington, a robust man with big soulful eyes, was the eloquent one said Pastor Jones, didn’t talk like a man of God ought, might near to be getting on...in age, he clarified. Those seven had more meetings—until the thought of getting rid of Pastor Jones rumbled around and took hook in their heads.

As Laurel made her vows, Tim made his.

He wasn’t going to go to that gate, nor look at it or think about who stood at it anymore. Folks would condemn him having his lover’s boy to his daughter’s wedding. This wedding was the beginning of his redemption. Clarisse, his ex, wasn’t going to take him back, but she wasn’t going to hate him any more over the affair.

And that hate going down was a weight lifted. And sure, Tim didn’t love Darla, but she loved him. And you take love when you can get it. Tim knew he had messed up his life, but when you trade what wasn’t yours to take, you can’t complain when the Devil cheats you. And Tim was lucky to have any part of this wedding, his daughter’s almost forgiveness.

Gate fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

“W

e afeared that there ain’t enough, sisters and breathern. ‘Scared that ya’ won’t see ‘cause God the firefly in yo’ darkness and you be wanting mo’ light. Aw, chil’ren, in yo’ heart, he wants yo’ to love. That’s yo’ everlastin’ light.” – from the last sermon of Pastor Ezra Zachariah Jones, of Colonial Church in Sustain, Virginia.

The park was public, so Tim couldn’t stop them from watching his baby girl’s wedding. Standing at the back lawn Tim was sentinel and most folks walked on. Two didn’t walk on. Of the two, Tim didn’t know the woman, but knew he hadn’t invited her to his daughter’s wedding. She came inside the gate and sat on the back row of white chairs, but Tim didn’t make a scene. It was the boy he focused on, kept watching as the boy watched him. That tall, dark, black boy with eyes deep and intent stood curling his fingers around the top of the wrought iron fence; him he knew.

Tim Knox saw Tyrion, his lover’s boy, standing by the park gate just before the wedding. Tim turned away.

“God is as kind as you are,” Pastor Jones had hollered in his last church sermon, sweating and beating his fists in the pulpit, his voice coming

out like a howl torn from him. Those words were years ago from his old dead Pastor, that same pastor who the congregation turned out of the pulpit of the small clapboard church he and 12 illiterate black carpenters built in ‘38.

By then, widower Pastor Jones was 89, had passed his undertaking business to his son six years before, only to have the son, only child, die two years later in a car accident when the boy was 42, killed the daughter-in-law too. They had no children. Pastor Jones was the one who had buried and gave eulogy over Tim’s Aunt Eula, the Aunt Eula who died when Tim Knox was 16. Both Pastor and Tim Knox knew that ‘alone’ was stray pebble on sloppy moss.

The boy stood there the whole ceremony and Tim thought about him every second, that tall, dark, black boy at the gate, in his white shirt, slightly wrinkled but obviously pressed in some places, a thrift store broad tie. It was bad enough that the boy’s mother came. Tim felt the moment when Darla, his lover, saw her son. No, she didn’t tell him to come, her stiff neck and pleading eyes tried to convey. Tim thought of how with just one look he made Darla turn from her boy. She had had to make a choice. She didn’t turn around again. Even Tim could feel the boy flinch inside.

After they put Pastor out, Tim didn’t go to that church or any other, but even he heard about the “witnessing,” how old Pastor just stood, in rain or shine, each Sunday and delivered his mumbling sermon to the gravel parking lot, how Deacon, now Pastor Washington threatened to call the police, but never

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did. Because what could Pastor Washington do about an old man mumbling his prayers?

They had cut the cake by now, and the guests drank lemonade in little clear plastic cups. The band Tim hired clear from Winston-Salem played the opening of a blues version of the Bob Marley song, Could You Be Loved? Everywhere he went, people smiled at Tim, on his way to the bathroom, to pay the leftover vendors, as he gave a quick kiss on his newly married daughter’s jaw. But in his mind, he saw not the boy by the gate, but old Pastor, who he had never seen again after his Aunt Eula was buried.

“God is as kind as you are.”

He could imagine Pastor, holding the Word, mumbling, old and outcast, and Tim, who had no use for religion, felt some of his faith shake just a portion.

He looked to the gate. Then he went to Darla, pulled her from her seat in the shadows. Folks did talk and remember.

Folks remembered Tim opened the gate. Folks remembered it was Tim who finally pulled the boy through into his mother’s grateful trembling arms, and how beautiful the wedding was as evening was leaving memories in the sky, with the band playing, with the stars like strings of small ivory lights coming on like fireflies.

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

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February 2014

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18-19.

Saturday, February 1 – Friday, February 28 Black History Month Celebration Guided Walking Tour

The Danville Historical Society is offering daily tours of the historic Holbrook-Ross Neighborhood where the professional African-American community lived from the late 1800s to the late 1960s. Cost is $6. Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. Times vary depending on weather. To schedule a tour, call 434.770.1974.

For more information, visit www.danvillehistory.org.

See ad on page 7.

Saturday, February 1 – Sunday, March 2 Changing America exhibit

This traveling version of the Smithsonian’s American History Museum exhibit, Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 and the March on Washington, 1963 tells the story of the Proclamation and the March and their impact on American history. The free exhibit is open daily from noon until 5:00 p.m. at Yanceyville Town Hall, 158 East Church Street, Yanceyville, North Carolina. Other supporting programs include: Emancipation Proclamation presentation at the Caswell County Historic Courthouse at 6:30 p.m. on February 14; March on Washington presentation at 6:30 p.m. on February 21 at the C.C. Courthouse; Black History as American History from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on March 2 at the C.C. Civic Center. For more information, call Rhonda Griffin at 336.694.6241.

Thursday, February 6 – Sunday February 9 Last Romance

The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History in conjunction with the Little Theatre of Danville is presenting a funny, poignant play as a fund-raising event for the DMFAH on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 975 Main Street. This heart-warming comedy about the transformative power of love is being directed by Larry Oldham.

Cast members are Patsi Compton, Stephen Petrick, Jane Reid, and Mack Williams. Show time on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday is at 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. For more information, call 434.793.5644 or visit www.danvillemuseum.org. (submitted by Cara Burton)

Saturday, February 15

The 13th Annual Danville Storytelling Festival

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this free family-oriented, multi-cultural, multi-generational event will inspire, reaffirm, pay homage and create a fun time with stories and songs at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street.

Whenever we find people stagnant in their thoughts and actions, we should readily have a story and song to motivate them into action. For centuries storytelling and songs have proven to be capable of planting inspiring ideas in our souls and reaffirming that our lives and experiences are meaningful and significant. When people see words of expressions on paper with their eyes, their emotions and thoughts are moved to respond. When people hear words of expressions spoken or sung with the human voice their spirits dance to the musicality of the sound. In both instances the pulse of life reigns within those individuals. That is Peoplehood.

As long as we have stories and songs to tell of what we “used to do”, “what we are doing now” and “what we are going to do” our spirits and communities should never show signs of desolation nor the lack of building bridges for humanity.

With inspiring ideas and affirmations gathered from stories and songs we can constantly breathe life into our communities, cultivate our heritage and harvest our future into prosperity.

The Cultural Arts Ensemble of Danville has produced a Storytelling Festival hosted by the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History to keep the oral tradition of stories alive and to pay homage to citizens who have proven to be quality of life bridge- builders for the city, its surrounding areas and most importantly its people. Among the Griots participating are professional regional and local storytellers: Madafo Lloyd Wilson, Robin Kitson, Josephus Thompson III, Logie Meachum and Fred Motley. For more info, call 434.793.5644. (submitted by Fred Motley)

Saturday, February 15

Guitarist Ann Vidovic

The Danville Concert Association presents this award-winning guitarist at 7:30 p.m. in the George Washington High School auditorium, 701 Broad Street. Her numerous first prize awards include the prestigious Fernando Sor competition in Rome, Italy. Hailing from the area of Croatia near Zagreb, she became the youngest student ever to attend that city’s prestigious National Music Academy. For more information, visit www.danvilleconcert.org or call 434.792.9242.

Friday, February 21 Sunday, March 2 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.

The North Star Theatre Project production Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. will be performed at the Historic North Theatre February 21, 22, 23 and 28; March 1 and 2.

Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m.

Directed by Mimi Johnson Grubb, 30 actors will transport you to the heart of a quaint French town, where Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman, yearns for something more than her provincial life. When her father, Maurice, becomes lost in the woods on the way to present his latest invention at a local fair, he seeks shelter in an old castle but is soon taken captive by the master of the house, a horrible Beast. Belle surrenders her freedom to save his life and, by taming the Beast, teaches him the meaning of love.

Evince Magazine Tickets are $15.00 Adults and $8.00 Children and are available at 434.793.SHOW (7469), www.thenorththeatre.com or at the box office at 629 North Main Street. Visit North Star Theatre Project on FaceBook or www.thenorththeatre.com for more information. (submitted by Mimi Johnson Grubb)

Tuesday, February 25

Complementary & Alternative Healthcare & An Introduction to Energy Medicine

This free, dynamic and interactive program from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Ballou Recreation Center will be presented by Dr. David I. Rosenberg, Professor of Psychology, Averett University and Licensed Clinical Psychologist. His focus will be on strategies for being more grounded and stress-free. This is part of the Keeping Well in Mind, Body & Spirit Series for those concerned with cancer prevention and survivorship, and is open to the entire community. Bring a lunch and a friend.

Drinks and dessert are provided. Boxed lunches can be ordered in advance for $6.00. Call to make a reservation 434-766-6650 or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

Wednesday, February 26 Flute Concert

Janet Phillips will present a variety of music written for flute solo by composers ranging from the Baroque period to present time beginning at 3:45 p.m. at The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street. Guest artists performing with Janet include percussionist, Justin Bunting, and pianist, Dr. Gail Allen of Averett University. Janet holds a master’s degree in flute performance from University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is a founding member of the Danville Symphony Orchestra and currently performs in the Danville and North Carolina Triad areas as a soloist, in chamber groups, and with various large ensembles. She is an adjunct music professor at Averett and teaches private music lessons to students in Danville and Greensboro. The concert is free and open to the public. (submitted by Joyce Fuquay)

Friday, February 28 IdeaFest

This will be a skills-building workshop for aspiring entrepreneurs, a business pitch competition and a networking reception at the Institute for Advance Learning & Research, 150 Slayton Avenue. Competitors will present a start-up idea to a panel of judges and an audience of potential investors and community members.

First place wins $3,000 plus 25 hours of business consulting from The Launch Place. Second place $1,500; third place $500; $500 goes to the audience-choice winner. To compete or attend, pre-register at www.ideafestdanville.com. This event is a project of Middle Border Forward Fellows. It is made possible through a Make It Happen! grant from the Danville Regional Foundation and the support of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, The Launch Place and VT Knowledge Works. (submitted

by Lauren Mathena)

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February 2014

Need to Talk?

Spiritual Direction Sessions Available Could you use some thoughtful conversation? Free 45-minute private sessions with a trained spiritual director are available thanks to a new grant.

Life today is noisy and rushed. We need help to really listen to our lives more deeply. Spiritual direction helps people to become more aware of God’s presence in their daily lives and then to see how their lives are a response to that initiative.

Spiritual direction is not therapy nor pastoral counseling and does not set out to fix a particular problem.

However, it can be helpful at any time of life and especially during times of discernment or transition. In an effort to increase thoughtful spirituality, The Episcopal Church’s Diocese of Southern Virginia is funding approximately 18 private spiritual direction sessions.

Participants need not be Episcopalian- in fact, those who think of themselves as spiritual but not religious are encouraged to participate.

Adult residents of Southern Virginia who are new to spiritual direction may request the free private sessions by contacting the spiritual director, Ami Hudson. The 45-minute private sessions will take place in the town of Halifax. A spiritual director for

10 years, Hudson has a Master of Divinity and Certificates in Justice & Peacemaking and in Gestalt Pastoral Care & Spiritual Companioning.

She has taught college religion courses and served as career coach to students. In addition to providing spiritual direction, Hudson is a life coach, retreat leader and speaker who leads programs in Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina and through her practice in Halifax. A member of St. John’s Episcopal in Halifax, her background is inter-denominational.

Rev. Cleon Ross of Danville, currently serving in Halifax, says, “I have found Ami one of the most centered and capable spiritual leaders in our area.”

Rev. Susan Grimm, Dean of the Convocation and Rector of Episcopal parishes in Clarksville and South Boston adds, “Our communities are under-served with only a few trained spiritual directors and very little familiarity with this ministry. This project makes it available.”

• To request a spiritual direction session, contact Ami Hudson at 434.476.4111 or visit www.AmiHudson.com. Search on Facebook: Spiritual Direction in Southern Virginia.

Evince Magazine

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February 2014

February Calendar Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row & Holbrook Street. 434.770.1974. www.danvillehistory.org. See ad page 7.

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

Danville Science Center (DSC) – 434.791.5160.

Tai-Chi Day Classes - Increase strength, balance, flexibility and progress at your own pace. M 11:15am-12:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Yoga Classes - Challenge mind and body, increase flexibility and stamina, build strength, improve balance and concentration, improve circulation, promote relaxation in this stress-relieving wellness class. M 11am-12pm, Danville Public Library (DPL); 5:30-6pm, Ballou Rec Center.

434.797.8848.

Bingo – Bring a gift to exchange and have blood pressure and body index checked.

Location/times vary. 434.799.5216.

Art with Judie – Learn how to paint with oil or watercolor. M/TU - Times vary. Ballou Annex. 434.799.5216.

Kuumba African Dance – Live drumming and energetic dancing that helps raise cultural awareness, uplifts and provides a great workout. MW 6:30pm-8pm. Stonewall Youth Center. 434.797.8848.

Pickleball Play. MWF 8am-11am. Coates Rec. Center. TTH 5-8pm. Glenwood Rec. Center. 434799.5216.

Prime Time Fitness - Low-impact aerobics workout with a mix of various fun dance steps. MTH 9:30-11am or 5:30-7pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

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

MTH 11:30am-1pm. Coates Rec. Center.

434.797.8848.

Hand and Foot Social - Play, socialize and enjoy refreshments. TU 2-4:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Sewing Classes – Learn how to use a needle and thread, make simple alterations or even clothes. Bring portable sewing machine, material, pattern and thread.

Beginners and experienced welcomed.

TU 6:30-8:30pm. Coates Rec Center.

434.799.5216.

Zumba Classes - Hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves create a one-ofa-kind interval training fitness program with fun routines that tone and sculpt the body while burning fat. TTH 7-8pm. Coates Rec. Center - 434.797.8848.

Art with Flo – Wet-on-wet technique of oil painting. Ages 18+. 9:30-11:30am, Glenwood Community Center; 6-8pm, Ballou Annex. 434.799.5216.

African Rhythms by Nguzo Saba – Learn West African dance technique to live drumming. W 6-7pm. Pepsi Building.

434.797.8848.

Mommy & Me Fitness - Safe and effective workout for moms, babies, toddlers and preschoolers. TH 8:30am. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

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

434.799.5216.

Ballou Book Swap - Take a book or two to read and leave a book or two to share. F 9am-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center 434.799.5216.

Friday Night Dances - Live music, dancing and refreshments. Ages 50+.

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

Through March 9

Robert Marsh Exhibit – Drawings and Paintings. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History (DMFA&H) – 434.793.5644. See story page 29.

Through April 5

Dinosaur Discovery – A walk-through maze, consisting of a series of dinosaur murals on the inner-walls, dinosaur specimens and interactive elements and dozens of real dinosaur fossils. Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH) – 276.634.4141.

Through May 10

VMNH Exhibits – Stories from Skeletons: Hard Evidence & Nano.

VMNH – 276.634.4141.

Through May 17

DSC Exhibits - From Here to There explores the science of how things move by land, sea and air. Participants will lift, launch and levitate with hands-on exhibits that make gravity, friction, and the laws of motion fun; Blood Suckers focuses on the biological wonders of creatures that eat blood - through encounters with live species and interactive exhibits. DSC – 434.791.5160.

February 1

Winter Peaks Hike - Hike to McAfee’s Knob, which has one of the most spectacular views on the Appalachian Trail.

Trail is moderate with a short, steep, rocky ascent to the overlook. Ages 12+. 8am5pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215.

Concealed Handgun Class – Learn the dos and don’ts of carrying a gun. 9am-2pm. Chatham Cares Community Center.

434.432.3115.

Southside Virginia Wildlife Center Volunteer Meeting – Meeting will give info. about what is expected of volunteers, how to volunteer, what help is needed, etc.

Must be 16+ and have transportation to volunteer. 10am. Danville Science Center.

Facebook.

Maker Lab – Different theme and art medium each month. Ages 5-9. 10-11am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Create a Fused Glass Plate for your Sweetie – Make a special, one-of-a-kind present. 10-11:30am. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

DRBA’s First Saturday Outing – Grassy Hill Nature Preserve. 10am. 540.420.8028. danriver.org.

Bob Ross Painting Class - Complete a painting, Outdoor Still Life, in one day. 10:30am–3:30pm. Ballou Annex.

434.799.5216.

Spring to Green Horticultural Symposium – All levels of gardeners will learn from award-winning horticultural specialists in a state of the art setting. 8:30am- 4pm. The Institute Conference Center. 434.799.6558. www.danvillemastergardeners.org.

African Tales Family Day - Enjoy snacks, games and African tales by storyteller, multiple-award-winning recording artist, and author Donna L. Washington. 2-4pm.

Piedmont Arts Association (PAA) – 276.632.3221.

Thomas Pandolfi Concert - A Night Of Gershwin. An evening of song by one of America’s greatest composers. 7:30pm.

The Prizery. 434.572.8339.

February 1 (thru 28)

Black History Month Celebration Guided Walking Tour. See ad page 7 and story page 14.

Pittsylvania County Public Libraries Events. See story page 27.

Averett Sports – Baseball, Basketball, Softball & Tennis. See ad page 17.

Art Exhibit – NCCU Student Art Show.

Reception 2/14 6-8pm. Kirby Gallery, Roxboro. 336.597.1709.

February 1 (thru March 2)

Changing America Exhibit. See page 14.

February 3

Meet the Mouse Computer Class – Intro to the mouse and keyboard. Ages 50+.

11am-1pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Anime Club – Come watch anime, talk manga, and enjoy things Japanese. Ages 12+. M 4-6pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 4

African Violet Club - Learn about garden tending, pest control and more at this meeting which includes a covered dish meal. 10-11:30am. Ballou Rec. Center 434.799.5216.

Ballou Choir Rehearsal – Join the choir and share talents. Performances at various locations. Male vocalists especially needed.

Five performances per month. Ages 50+.

11:15am-12:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center 434.799.5216.

Deco Mesh Wreath Making Class - Mesh wreaths are easy and quick to make Valentines. 3 or 6pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Lego Build-A-Thon – Celebrate the new Lego Movie by building your most ambitious creation with a new collection of Legos. 46pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 4 (thru 25)

SHS Tours – Parents are invited to attend an informational school meeting. Prospective students are invited to shadow a student in a classroom. 9-10am. Sacred Heart School. www.sheartschool.com.

February 5

Basic Word 2010 Computer Class – Learn how to use the basic features of Microsoft Word. Ages 50+. 11am-1pm.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 5 (thru 26)

Wees Story Time – Dance, sing, listen, make crafts and have fun. Ages up to 2.

10-10:45am. DPL (Downtown & Westover) – 434.799.5195.

Wednesday Friends - Bring a lunch and enjoy a special activity or speaker. Shopping day is the second Wednesday of the month.

Ages 60+. W 11am-1:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

February 6

Bob Ross Technique Workshop – Woodland Still Life. 9am-3:30pm. PAA – 276.632.3221.

Bingo Madness. 4-5pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 6

Controlling Pain Naturally - Arthritis.

Learn drug-free, non-surgical approaches to healing and wellness. 11am-12pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

Wine Tasting - The Country Vintner.

Free sampling, open to public. Age 21+.

6:30-7:30pm. Vintages by the Dan. 434.799.4363.

February 6 (thru 9)

The Last Romance – See ad page 4 and story page 14.

February 6 (thru 27)

Pajama Story Time – Dress in PJs and share stories and songs with a set theme. Ages 5-10. TH 6-6:45am. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Technology Woes Lifeline - Bring tech woes to one-on-one trouble-shooting with a computer-savvy technician. 3-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families. 6:30-8pm. West Main Baptist Church. 434.833.7336.

February 7

Singing at Ballou - Karaoke - sing or just listen and enjoy. 2-3:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

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

First Fridays Painting Party – Bring

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friends and beverage of choice for a night of painting. 6-9pm. PAA – 276.632.3221.

Valentine’s Candlelight Walk & Dinner Spend time walking the candlelit bridge while listening to songs provided by the Brantley Family singers. Meal provided

by O’Kelly’s. Register by 2/5. 6-8pm. The Crossing at the Dan/Danville Community Market. 434.799.5215.

February 7 (thru 28)

Preschool Story Time – Share stories and songs with a set theme. Ages 3-5.

F 11-11:45am. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 8

Death Cafe Danville - Objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. Engage in self-directed, meaningful, thought-provoking discussions about death and how it relates to living. This is not grief support. Registration required.

1-3pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. 434.429.5962.

African American Read-In – Community members will read excerpts from books, stories and poems by African-American authors. Guests are invited to enjoy snacks and refreshments.. 2-4pm. PAA – 276.632.3221.

February 9

Classic Movie – Casablanca. 3pm. Kirby Theater, Roxboro. 336.597.1709.

February 10

Beginner Internet Computer Class – Learn how to connect to the Internet, and perform basic searches. Ages 50+. 11am1pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Senior Bowling Tournament - Exercise, make new friends, have fun. Have BP and BMI checked while waiting to bowl. 10am12pm. Riverside Lanes - 434.791.2695.

One Noble Journey: A Box Marked Freedom – One-person play about a slave from Louisa County, Virginia, who escaped bondage by mailing himself to freedom.

7pm. Black Box Theatre. 276.632.3221.

February 11

Crafter’s Corner – Bring current projects or learn new ones. 4:30-5:30pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 12

Valentines with Elvis - Light lunch and show with Wayne Eullis, performing Elvis’ biggest hits in costume. 12pm-2pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Polliwogs & Science Stars. Ages 3–4, 1–2pm. Ages 5–7, 3:30–4:30pm. DSC 434.791.5160.

Valentine Bingo - Bring a gift to exchange.

Ages 50+. 2-4pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Candy Bouquets – Create a delicious candy bouquet to give to someone special.

Ages 6-10. 3:30-4:30pm. DPL-Westover – 434.799.5195.

Ellen Glasgow in Virginia - A program on the Pulitzer Prize winning Southern novelist. 3:45pm. The Wednesday Club.

434.792.7921.

February 13

Senior Movie Day - Enjoy the movie Now You See Me with snacks. Ages 50+. 11am.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Mystery Trip - A surprise trip limited to 10 people. Wear comfortable shoes.

11am-12:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Brain Picnic - Museum Treasures. A lunch and learn about current and upcoming programs, exhibitions and history of the museum. 11:30am-1:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

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

Evince Magazine Teen Movie Night – Popcorn and lemonade will be served while watching Once Bitten. Ages 13+. 4-6pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Valentine Eve Dance – Wear red and bring that special someone to dance the night away. Program is specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Ages 12+.

6-8pm. Stonewall Therapeutic Recreation Center. 434.799.5199.

The Hit Men. Caswell County Civic Center.

See ad page 15.

February 14

Beginning Watercolor – All experience levels are welcome. 1-3pm. PAA – 276.632.3221.

Bloody Valentine Party - Valentine’s Day... vampire style. Ages 13-20. 3:30-5:30pm.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Valentine’s Day Dance - Dress in red-andwhite. Light refreshments. DJ Jay Rojas.

Ages 5-13. 7-9pm. Coates Rec. Center.

434.799.5150.

Valentine’s Ball - Live music, dancing and light refreshments. Ages 50+.

7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Bruce In the USA Concert - Much more than just another tribute band. This highenergy musical experience is a note-perfect and visually accurate recreation of a Bruce Springsteen & The E. Street Band show.

8pm. North Theatre. 434.793.7469.

February 14, 15 & 16

The Odd Couple - Directed by Fred Motley.

Updated classic comedy with a decidedly modern female twist. 7:30pm/3pm. Kirby Theater, Roxboro - 336.597.1709. See ad page 25.

February 15

Storytelling Festival. See story page 14.

Family Movie Matinee - Enjoy the movie Despicable Me 2, popcorn and lemonade.

10:30am-12:30pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

SoVA Winefest - 12 wineries, specialty foods, and live music. 11am-5pm. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex Arena.

434.432.8026.

Ana Vidovic Concert. Danville Concert Association. See ad page 11 and story page 14.

February 17

Basic Email Computer Class – Learn the basics of email and set up an account.

Practice receiving and sending as well as composing and replying to emails. Ages 50+. 11am-1pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

Herbs for Love – Learn how herbs have been used through throughout time as love “potions” and even make some. Session includes discussion of myths and lore and the role of herbs in the timeless pursuit of love. 5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 18

Seniors on the Move Trip - Discover Lynchburg. Visit the Anne Spencer House, Garden & Studio; The Legacy Museum of African American history and the Old City Cemetery. 7am-7pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Intro to Genealogy I – Learn basic methods of research. Ages 18+. 11am1pm. Law Lab, DPL – 434.799.5195.

Paint/Craft/Create Series - Complete a decorative indoor bird house 3-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

February 18 (thru March 11)

Beginning Swimming II – Kids can learn how to swim and have fun in the water through classes that teach strokes, water games and floating positions. Ages 6-12.

TU 3:30-4:15pm. YMCA. 434.799.5215.

February 18 (thru March 18)

Intro to Wire Wrapped Jewelry – Learn the basics of wire wrapping using multiple gauges and types of metals. Several projects will be completed during the class. 5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

Stained Glass Open Studio – Self-paced studio to complete projects and designs.

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

Correcting Digital Photos – Learn how to remove red eyes, correct blemishes, and make subject matter stand out by blurring the background. 6-8pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 19 (thru March 19)

Fused Glass Open Studio – Self-paced studio to complete projects and designs.

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

February 20

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

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Intro to Genealogy II – Continued basic methods of research. Ages 18+. 11am1pm. Law Lab, DPL – 434.799.5195.

Senior Citizens Club - Monthly meeting and covered dish luncheon. Ages 50+. 121:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Gardening Basics - Selecting Plants for Landscape. Info and answers about gardening topics and more. 6pm. DPL. 434.797.8848.

Sky Watchers. Nightfall. DSC – 434.791.5160.

February 20 (thru March 20)

Wheel Thrown Pottery – Entry level class will focus on basic throwing technique, with a focus on centering, making cylinder, bowls and perhaps your first teapot. Discuss various throwing methods, wheel trimming, and adding handles, lids etc. 5:30-8:30pm.

The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

Floor Loom Weaving – Principles and techniques of floor loom weaving, including warp preparation, dressing the loom, pattern drafting, and basic loom-controlled and weaver-controlled weaves. Emphasis will be on developing a personal approach to fiber media. 5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

Intro to Fine Woodworking – Learn how to safely use the woodworking equipment.

Topics include the milling technique, mortise and tenon joinery, surface prep, and application of finishes. All students will complete a decorative box. 5:30-8:30pm.

The Artisan Center – 276.656.5461.

February 21 (thru March 1)

The Complete World Of Sports (abridged) - Halifax County Little Theatre invites you to bring your favorite sports fan for the most laughs ever in one sitting. Nonsports fans will be laughing too. Dates vary.

7:30pm/3pm. The Prizery. 434.572.8339.

February 21 (thru March 2)

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. The North Star Theatre Project. See story page 14 and ad page 24.

February 22

Crossing of the Dan 233rd Anniversary Watch a reenactment of the Crossing of the

Dan at the Staunton River Battlefield State Park. Ages 10+. Register by 2.14. 8:30am5pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215.

See story page 20 for event in South Boston.

AARP Smart Drivers Class - This class refreshes driving skills and is designed for those over 50. Bring a bag lunch. 9am5pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

True Grit Bull Bash - Family fun with bull riding, mutton busting for the kids, and ladies barrel racing. 6-10pm.

Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex.

434.432.8026.

February 22 (thru April 19)

PAA Exhibits. Continuum of Being Featuring new works by Floyd, VA artist Gibby Waitzkin that explores the symbiotic relationship between humans and their environment—emphasizing humanity as an organic element in nature. Using objects that echo themselves throughout the natural world, like seedpods, lichen and flowering plants, these works highlight man’s vulnerable place within nature, while striving to impose minimal impact. Imagining Art From papier-mâché dolls to knitting to quilts, Ursula Allen’s work is full of fun and whimsy. 2-4pm. PAA – 276.632.3221.

February 24

Author Dan Morrow – Talk about his book Murder in Lexington, based on the true story of the 1854 murder of VMI Cadet First Classman Tom Blackburn, one of Professor Stonewall Jackson’s most notorious students. Law student Charles Burks Christian stabbed and killed Blackburn after being spurned by Mary Evelyn Anderson, one of the most beautiful women in Virginia.

She later married Blackburn’s roommate, Sandy Bruce, of Berry Hill in Halifax County.

7pm. Spare Times Grill, South Boston. phammond@directv.net.

February 25

Researching Your African American Ancestors I – Learn how to find African American ancestors using the genealogical databases. 11am-1pm.

DPL – 434.799.5195.

Keeping Well Program Series – Complementary & Alternative Healthcare & An Introduction to Energy Medicine.

See story page 15.

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February 26

Janet Phillips Flute Concert.

See story page 15.

February 26 (thru March 26)

Advanced Quilting Techniques - Open lab for the experienced quilter. 9am12pm; 5:30-8:30pm. The Artisan Center.

276.656.5461. www.theartisancenter.org.

February 27

Controlling Pain Naturally - Back Pain.

Learn drug-free, non-surgical approaches to healing and wellness. 11am-12pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.797.8848.

Researching Your African American Ancestors II – Continued learning how to find African American ancestors using the genealogical databases. 11am-1pm. DPL – 434.799.5195.

February 27 (thru March 27)

Decorative Painting - Explore the basics of color and simple decorative painting techniques. 5:30-8:30pm.

The Artisan Center. 276.656.5461. www.theartisancenter.org.

February 28

IdeaFest. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. See story page 15.

Dan River Autism Awareness 5k Earlybird Registration Deadline - Fundraiser on April 26 for The Autism Education Fund. danriverautism5k.org.

Upcoming Events March 8

Green Legs & Hamstrings – Choose a 5K, 10K, or half-marathon race on the finest single track trail system in the Southeast.

Ages 10+. 10am-1pm. Anglers Park.

434.799.5215.

Solas Concert. Danville Concert Association. See ad page 11.

Caladh Nua - Traditional Irish Music.

7:30pm. The Prizery. 434.572.8339.

March 9

Classic Movie – Bull Durham. 3pm.

Kirby Theater, Roxboro. 336.597.1709.

March 15

The Second City Happily Ever Laughter.

Caswell County Civic Center. See ad page 15.

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February 2014

233rd Anniversary of The Crossing of the Dan

by Larry G. Aaron This February marks the 233rd anniversary of General Nathanael Greene’s crossing of the Dan River at South Boston when his American Army outraced the British army under Lord Cornwallis in 1781.

On Saturday, February 22, visitors will enjoy the annual Crossing program with greetings, presentations of wreaths and a keynote address by Patrick Henry Jolly, the great grandson of legendary Revolutionary leader Patrick Henry.

Following the program at the Chastain Theatre in the Prizery, 700 Bruce Street, a Brunswick stew for $5 will be available at the Riverside Exhibit. A portrayal of the Crossing

by American and British re-enactors complete with a full size replica of a ferry boat and cannon and musketry fire will take place at the Boyd’s ferry site on the Dan River.

General Greene’s army crossed the rain-swollen river with six ferry boats that were acquired from sites along the Dan. The 28’ x 8’ replica will make it possible for the first time since the American Revolution for “troops” to cross the Dan in an authentic reproduction of a boat that carried a cannon, wagons, horses and men. Spectators will see the American soldiers crossing the Dan exactly like it happened in 1781.

This year also marks a new honor for the Crossing event. In September 2013 in Louisville, Kentucky, the National Society Sons of the American approved the Crossing of the Dan as one of the seminal Revolutionary War events celebrated across the nation. With this national recognition confirmed, visitors from as far away as Texas and Georgia plan to attend.

Finally, the new documentary The Crossing of the Dan will be available for purchase. Produced

by Virginia Multimedia with WBTM’s “Hutch” Hutcheson and written and directed by Larry Aaron, State Historian for the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution, the documentary features live action, interviews with nationally recognized experts on Revolutionary War history, maps, and imagery

from a variety of sources including the National Archives, Library of Congress and Brown University.

Scenes were filmed at the Crossing event in South Boston and reenactments in North and South Carolina.

The commemoration honors those American soldiers who marched through rain and sometimes snow over 200 miles in cold winter weather, many of them barefoot, worn out and hungry by the time they reached the actual site where the reenactment is taking place. After crossing the Dan, they kept all the boats on the other side, leaving the British no way to cross the flooded river. Greene’s crossing of the Dan at South Boston, although a nearly forgotten episode in United States history, was instrumental in our winning the American Revolution. Dr. Lawrence Babits, an esteemed scholar of that war’s Southern campaign, has said that “Greene’s crossing of the Dan led more quickly to long-term victories than those at Trenton and Princeton” when Washington crossed the Delaware. Resupplied and reinforced with militias from surrounding counties such as Pittsylvania and Halifax, Greene was able to recross the river some days later and hand Cornwallis’s British army a terrific mauling at Guilford Courthouse that sent the British reeling toward Wilmington.

From there Cornwallis made the fateful decision to enter Virginia where he surrendered his entire army at Yorktown.

For more information visit www. prizery.com/crossing/celebration or call 434.572.8339.

Evince Magazine

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Reflecting Forward Promise and Promises: Built on Trust

by Linda Lemery I’ve been thinking about promises.

They’re commitments to do something, to take some action.

These commitments fuel the progress of the world.

The first example of a promise that comes to mind is romantic love.

Wedding vows represent a formal commitment to a relationship and often involve the promise to love, honor, and obey (though both my husband and I opted out on the word obey). We’ve been married more than 32 years; other couples we know have been together more than 40 years. These people have kept their promises to each other and have used them as a foundation on which to build families and contribute to communities, both of which add trickle effects to our world.

A different kind of promise is friendship and support between people. Parents and their extended families can support each other in times of need, but people don’t have to be related by blood to show evidence of strong support.

Friends are the family members we choose, as opposed to those with whom we share DNA; these friends can be steadfast rocks of support in times of need. I have five outof-state girlfriends who I’ve known for 35+ years and we lean on each other as needed; I treasure these relationships. I’ve known some of my local girlfriends for more than 30 years; these people too, I’ll treasure and rely on until I die.

Not every commitment, not every promise, is explicit. Some promises are implicit, like the implicit promise of a student going to college to do his or her personal best at achieving in the coursework and finishing a degree in partial return for various forms of support received. If the student blows off the coursework, that’s breaking the implicit promise to supporters: parents, guardians, friends, funding agencies and every former teacher. These people are investors

in the student. Betraying this implicit promise can have lifetime deleterious effects on everyone, especially the student.

Yet another kind of promise is the potential that individuals can show. Some people live up to their promise; others don’t. It’s all about taking action. Talk is cheap; action puts the rubber to the road. When former U.S. Congressman Tom Perriello was in office, he sent a letter and a certificate to students who graduated from high school.

In the letter is an italicized sentence that tells a big story about promise: Upon graduation, you will no longer be judged by your potential, but by your accomplishments.

He tells students that their future is in their hands, that they should persevere to shape that future and to give back to community and nation through good citizenship.

What insightful, thought-provoking and truthful ideas for living a meaningful life.

Promises normally relate to intended future actions, which need to take place on foundations of trust. When promises are broken, trust is shattered, and while it’s easy to make another promise, it can be almost impossible to rebuild trust in a relationship in which trust has been betrayed. Second chances are harder to come by, much harder to earn than their predecessors.

Both promise as potential and promises as intended future actions seem to have strong relationships to trust. Promises represent commitment beyond ourselves and often involve service to others.

Promises seem increasingly important to me, especially in this month with Valentine’s Day and the fidelity it symbolizes. This line of thought seems promising, don’t you think? Happy Valentine’s Day. About the Author: Linda Lemery, llemery@averett.edu mulls over promise and promises at the Circulation Desk at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville. She welcomes your comments.

Three ways to spot the difference between a professional and an amateur I’ve hired them. I’ve been hired as one myself. I’ve screened them for international business conferences, ...and I’ve listened to countless numbers of them. The good, the bad, and the downright mind numbing. I’m talking about professional speakers.

Here are three classic signs that indicate the “professional” speaker at the microphone is actually an amateur.

1. “Good morning. Now, you can do better than that. Good morning!!!”

You’ve heard it more times than you can count. A speaker should start off with an interesting “hook” to intrigue the audience rather than a demand for their unwarranted enthusiasm.

Speaker sin numero uno.

2. Slide templates and clipart from 1995... with lots of words! It’s amazing how many professional speakers don’t seem to know the art of creating a professional slide deck. Anyone speaking for a living should take

a course in how to design and use PowerPoint effectively. The speaker should either learn how to create a professional slide deck, or pay someone to do it.

3. “...and in closing,...” followed by “Any questions?” While it may seem logical, it’s not the way a true professional ends a presentation. There’s an art to fielding questions before delivering the closing statement. Professionals know how it’s done. Observe them and take note of the subtle techniques.

Public speaking is actually an art. Like any other art form, not everyone is good at it. However, if you expose yourself to some really good speakers and take note of what they do differently, you’ll learn more ways to spot the difference between the professionals and the pretenders. ...and remember, there’s no shame in being coached in the art!

Kristina R. Barkhouser, CPLP Direct: 434.797.6770 Mobile: 434.489.1309 kbarkhouser@ExcelenPerformance.com Kristina R. Barkhouser is the founder and President of Excelen Performance, Inc. She has over 20 years of experience in technical and interpersonal skills development.

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February 2014

Why do fire trucks show up for an emergency when there’s no fire? Michael Jefferson, Danville Fire Department’s Battalion Chief for Emergency Medical Services, says the reason is response time.

Because the department can dispatch fire trucks from seven locations located throughout the city, its trained First Responders can reach the scene of an emergency in an average of just 4.5 minutes.

Help begins with 911 Dispatch, which also is part of the fire department. The operator identifies the address and nature of the emergency and then, using a Computer Aided Dispatch system, sends calls to the First Responders. If the emergency is life threatening, for example, if it involves respiratory arrest or a heart attack, a fire truck is immediately underway. Simultaneously, 911 Dispatch alerts the Danville Life Saving Crew or if the Crew is over-extended, Regional One Emergency Medical Services.

With a mission to provide the best possible pre-hospital care, Danville’s First Responders see themselves as an interconnected team. In non-life threatening situations, only an ambulance is necessary. On the other hand,

Engineer Scott Burke and firemen, Steffen Scarce and Trey Belcher, check equipment after returning from an emergency call. Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Why Are There Fire Trucks at a Medical Emergency?

by Crystal Gregory

sometimes police are needed to secure the scene before the First Responders can begin their work. Whatever is necessary, the goal is to work as one system with each first-response team operating within its own circle of responsibility.

The fire department’s First Responders provide immediate first aid such as CPR and oxygen.

One of the newest additions is equipment that allows them to send cardiac information to the hospital; when patients arrive at Danville Regional Medical Center, they can go directly to the cardiac catheterization department instead of going through the emergency room. The time saved could be life changing.

Once the Life Saving Crew arrives, the senior member of the team is in charge of the situation. The Crew member with the highest level of medical training attends to the patient and others assist. According to Steve Parrish, a former Chief of the Crew, all responders have to be prepared for every possible

kind of situation from drowning to fire or entrapment; everything is “normal.” On the other hand, individuals develop different kinds of expertise; therefore, the First Responders are always grateful to see a specialist such as a jawsof-life operator to assist with removing a victim trapped in a vehicle or a paramedic who can administer advanced cardiac care.

One of the most difficult aspects of responding to an emergency is getting to the scene. Drivers often panic when they see a fire truck or ambulance. Many times noises and radios hide even the loudest sirens, so when drivers see an emergency vehicle, they have too little time to think what to do. Drivers are supposed to clear the left lane; unfortunately, the Life Saving Crew has encountered many that move left instead of right and some even stop. One new advantage is that the fire department and Life Saving Crew have equipment that causes traffic lights to change to green as they approach. Nevertheless, driving to emergency scenes is so hazardous that one person in the cab of the response vehicle

must monitor the traffic. Despite the frustrations and stresses of emergencies, what all First Responders remember most are seeing smiles and hearing thank you. Knowing that they have helped is the reward they value.

For the community, seeing the fire trucks and rescue vehicles is a blessing. Help has arrived.

What should family members or bystanders do to help in an emergency?

• Remain calm.

• Send someone to the street to flag down the First Responders.

• Turn on the porch light and blink it off and on.

• Make a list of information about each member of the household and post it on the refrigerator today. List: person’s name, age, address, telephone numbers and insurance.

• Most importantly, include medications: the generic or brand names, times taken, dosages • Designate one person only to communicate with the EMTs.

Evince Magazine

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February 2014

Book Clubbing A review by Diane Adkins Director of the Pittsylvania County Public Library System

Choosing Civility: The 25 Rules of Considerate Conduct

by P.M. Forni

Many people seem to long for a simpler time and when they are pressed to articulate what they mean “respect for others” invariably is part of the definition. According to a study completed for KRC Research, 70% of Americans believe incivility in our country has reached crisis proportions.

Professor Forni, who is founder of the Civility Initiative at Johns Hopkins University, has captured in this little volume ways for all of us to live well, reflecting that “a crucial measure of our success in life is the way we treat one another.” By modeling civility in our lives, Forni contends that we will be making our own lives better, for civility is fundamental to the making of a good, successful and serene life. In other words, being good is good for you.

So what is civility? It is to choose respect, empathy and consideration of others at every opportunity—at work and in our personal lives. It also entails “an active interest in the well-being of our communities.”

Forni expands on 25 rules of conduct, such as “acknowledge others,” “think the best,” “speak kindly,” “respect other people’s time,” “don’t shift responsibility and blame.” Our parents may have called these manners and indeed, Forni says, “Manners do the everyday busywork of goodness.”

Much of this seems to be common sense, but Forni notes, “Common sense has taken eons to become common. Angrily contested parking spaces, cellular telephones ringing everywhere, offensive anonymous Internet messages, volleys of racial or homophobic epithets in the streets and out-of-control bullying in the schools; shrill fellow air travelers, narcissistic co-workers, yelling supervisors, pushy shoppers, surly salespeople, self-serving friends. . . .” In such a world, perhaps this sense isn’t common at all. To offset such a coarsening of our society, we need to choose civility.

Entire tomes are written about the philosophy of civility in society, but Forni’s work is practical and adaptable. What would make our community better? What would be the brightest sign of hope and promise for all of us? Certainly we could aspire to be known as the place where we all treat each other with respect, where our leaders speak to each other collegially, where our students refuse to bully each other, where kindness is paramount. To become such a community, reading this book (and perhaps discussing it with a group as we did recently at the library) is a good place to start.

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

Evince Magazine

The Promise of Love

by Annelle Williams

There is no greater promise than the promise of love. That may sound a bit dramatic, but I believe it’s true. When you think of all the different kinds of love and all the things the word implies, it’s no wonder it shapes our lives from birth. So, yes, let’s take a month and celebrate love.

February is my birth month and the birth month of many great Americans, including my grandmother who was born on February 14, 1900 and lived 98 years with a heart full of wonderful unconditional love. Over the years we made heart-shaped cakes, cookie-cutter brownies, red velvet cakes, and always heart-shaped cookies-anything to represent love for her special day. The red sugar sprinkles abounded.

I’m making a new Valentine Cookie for all my sweethearts this year and in honor of my grandmother. They’re easy and delicious--dark chocolate with just a hint of salt. I believe they’ll be a big hit any time of year and in any shape. Make some for the loves of your life!

Chocolate-Raspberry Thumbprint Hearts & Chocolate Red-Sprinkle Hearts (adapted from Martha Stewart’s basic sugar-cookie dough) 2 sticks butter, room temperature 1 cup sugar 1 large egg

1 T pure vanilla extract 1 tsp. salt 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add eggs, vanilla, and salt; mix on medium speed until combined. With mixer on low speed, add flour in 2 batches, mixing just until incorporated. Divide dough into 2 equal portions. Place each on a piece of plastic wrap; flatten into disks. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate until firm at least 2 hours or up to 1 week.

7 oz. dark chocolate, finely chopped, divided 4 oz. walnuts, chopped to fine crumbs

1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam 1/4 cup red decorating sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees with racks in upper and lower thirds. Place one packet of chilled dough in the bowl of an electric mixer. Set a small heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water; add half the chocolate and stir until melted and smooth. Drizzle chocolate over dough; mix on low speed until just combined.

Place walnuts in a shallow dish. Form dough into 1-inch balls; roll balls in nuts, coating completely. Place balls on parchment- lined baking sheets. Use your thumb to make an indentation in center of each ball. Chill 20 minutes. (or you can flatten each ball with palm, cut into heart shape and with finger, make heart-shaped indention.)

Bake cookies in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching positions of sheets halfway through, until firm to the touch, 12-16 minutes (mine took 13 minutes). Remove from oven. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, press indentation of each cookie to redefine shape; fill each with about 1/4 teaspoon jam. Transfer sheets to wire racks to cool completely. Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Repeat as above, melting and adding remaining chocolate to second packet of chilled dough. Between two pieces of plastic wrap, roll dough 1⁄4 inch thick . With a small heart cookie cutter, cut cookies, press top of each cookie into bowl of red sanding sugar and place on parchment-lined cookie pan, sugar side up. Continue until all dough is used.

Chill for 20 minutes, and then bake as above.

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

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February 2014

Where Can I Find an Evince?

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

Riverside Drive/Piedmont Drive/Marketplace Area:

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

Main Street/Downtown/ Tobacco Warehouse Area

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

Memorial Drive Frank’s Pizza

Gingerbread House

Piney Forest Road Area

Commonwealth Pharmacy ERA Holley & Gibson Realty Company Mary’s Diner, Piedmont Credit Union

Franklin Turnpike Area

Medo’s, Ruben’s Too, Village’s Pizza

Other

Danville Welcome Center-River Park Dr.

In Chatham Area

Community Center at Chatham 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, VA

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

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Western Auto

Evince Magazine

What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania County Public Libraries READING PROGRAMS:

• Snuggle with a Book: Starts February 3.

• Preschool Early Literacy Programs: Mother Goose on the Loose: Chatham, Mondays at 11:30 a.m. This early literacy program incorporates music, poems, and rhythm instruments. Open to children ages birth to 3 with their parents or caregivers. Wednesdays for Wees: Chatham, Gretna, Mt. Hermon and Brosville/Cascade, 10:00 a.m. Special Awesome Animals program, all branches, February 5. Bring your favorite stuffed animal.

Valentine’s Day program on February 12 at Gretna.

• Brown Bag Book Discussions: Wednesdays through March from 12:001:00 p.m. at the Chatham library. Open to adults.

• Read to Wrangell and Friends: Mondays, February 10 and 24, and Wednesdays, February 5 and 19, 4:00-5:00 p.m., Gretna. Children read to a therapy dog.

• Second Thursday Book Discussion Group: Thursday, February 13, 4:00 p.m. Still Foolin’ ‘Em by Billy Crystal. Open to adults.

• Book Talk: February 14, noon, Brosville. Hot Romance and Hot Coffee.

Read a “blind date” romance book by a male author and talk about it over specialty coffee. Bring your lunch; books are available at the branch.

Coffee will be provided at the discussion.

• Family Story Time: Thursday, February 6, 13, and 27, Mt. Hermon.

• Bedtime Story Time: Thursday, February 20, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon • Stuffed Animal Lock-in: Thursday, February 20, 7:00 p.m., Brosville: Bring your favorite stuffed animal, listen to a bedtime story, enjoy milk and cookies, and put your stuffed animal to bed for the night; pick it up on Friday. Sleeping bags for the stuffed animals provided.

HEALTH PROGRAMS:

• Blood Pressure Checks: Gretna: Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.; Mt. Hermon: Tuesdays, 2:00-5:00 p.m.; Brosville: Thursdays 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.; Chatham: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00 p.m. Cherrystone Missionary Baptist Association Center, 5551 Tom Fork Rd, Ringgold: Tuesdays 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

COMPUTER CLASSES:

• Individual Help: Wednesdays, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Chatham. Bring your questions and receive help.

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FILM PROGRAMS:

• Movies in February: Wednesday, February 5, noon until 1:00 p.m., The Ghost of War, a movie featuring two World War II soldiers from Pittsylvania County, will be shown during Brown Bag Book Discussion at Chatham.

Thursday, February 13, 3:30 p.m., Gretna; Saturday, February 15, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon; Monday, February 24, 5:30 p.m., Chatham. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.

ART AND CRAFT PROGRAMS:

• Knitting: Monday, February 3, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. Tuesday, February 18, 10:00 a.m., Brosville.

• Re-Use It Tuesdays: Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, 5:30 p.m., Gretna. Call to register, and for a list of materials needed 434-656-2759. Crafts include Valentine luminaries, pop-top bracelets, and a T-shirt scarf.

• Crochet: Tuesdays, February 4 and 25 at 10:00 a.m., Brosville/Cascade; Wednesdays, February 5 and 19, 1:30-3:00 p.m., Chatham.

• Winter Reading Craft: Thursday, February 6, 4:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon (during Family Story Time).

• Embroidery: Tuesday, February 11, 10:00 a.m., Brosville.

• Crafternoon at the Library: Tuesday, February 11, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Brosville. Making Valentines out of recycled book pages.

• Valentine Crafts: Monday, February 3, 3:30-5:00 p.m., Gretna: Heart Animals. Tuesday, February 4, 5:30-6:30, Chatham: Hearts as hanging decorations; Monday, February 10, 3:30-5:00 p.m., Gretna: make a card. Tuesday, February 11, 3:30-5:00 p.m., Brosville; Tuesday, February 11, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon; Thursday, February 13, 4:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon (during Family Story Time).

• Art Class: Tuesdays, February 18 and 25, 4:00-4:45 p.m., Chatham; open to ages 6-11.

GAMING PROGRAMS:

• Bingo, Monday, February 3, 4:00-4:45 p.m., Chatham: Open to children in elementary school.

• LEGO Club, Saturday, February 8, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon-free play.

Thursday, February 27, 4:00-4:45 p.m., Chatham.

• Wii Winter Olympics: Thursdays, February 6 & 13, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Brosville.

• Wii Night: Tuesday, February 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Chatham.

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. For information about any of these programs, email info@pcplib.org, call your local branch library, or visit www.pcplib.org.

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February 2014

While traveling West Main Street near Ballou Park, I recently saw something very striking in the distance. It resembled a standing wall of windows, reminiscent of Matthew Brady’s photographs of Richmond’s ruins at Civil War’s end. What I was viewing, however, were the once brick-encased windows on one wall of the Schoolfield Mill, now filled with blue sky. Driving further, I realized that the single standing wall was an illusion crafted by sight’s angle, as the shadows from the wall of the building’s other side slowly filled most of those openings.

Each window was like a painting’s frame, each work potentially titled Study in Blue.

Seen an hour later, all could be named Study in Twilight or Study in Gold. The art became more comprehensive with inclusion of The Three Sisters— the trio of smokestacks from the former Mill. I later saw Chimney Swifts flying to The Three Sisters for the night. If the plan for these Schoolfield smoke stacks is similar to that executed for the stacks next to Dan River’s old dye house, then these swift-named

Destruction’s Promise

by Mack Williams birds should become adjectively swift in relocating their nests.

Another temporary art-like addition to the scene was a lower, extended “wall” on the left, its windows

similarly vacant, whose arches resemble a Roman aqueduct silhouetted by the evening sun.

This analogy is aided by the light-reflecting waters of an old industrial pond in the foreground.

Just like God’s rainbow in the sky marks His promise to never again destroy the entire world with water, perhaps there is another promise pertaining to destruction. If the path to nothingness is carried out slowly and methodically, then art, or its semblance, may emerge from what is being destroyed, if but briefly.

Evince Magazine

Artist Robert Marsh

Returning to the DMFAH after 30 Years

by Patsi Compton We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.

T. S. Eliot Robert Marsh: Drawings and Paintings, currently on exhibit at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, clearly reflects his favorite T.S. Eliot quote. Robert Marsh laughs a lot, smokes more than he should, drinks less coffee than people think, enthusiastically endorses Averett, is devoted to his family and loyal to his friends. On top of it all, he is a very talented artist. As fellow artist and former student Yancey Smith says, “Constantly exploring his craft with sophistication, skill, thoughtful composition and sometimes whimsy, Robert Marsh achieves these with ease, and the resulting richness of his work is stunning.”

After receiving his graduate degree in print-making at the University of Mississippi, Marsh atypically adopted the use of oil sticks to set himself apart from the other artists who were painters. Though he still prefers them, some of his newer works are done with brushes and Createx paint and others in dry pastels. Marsh’s work has changed over the years.

Early paintings were “tight,” he says, landscapes of which 40% to 60% were white paper. Now almost every inch is imbued with color.

He admires the freely scribbled paintings of Cy Twombly, but Marsh’s style is diametrically opposed to Twombly’s. “I could never paint like that. I’d have to make something out of those lines,” he admits.

The hardest part of creating a painting? “Getting what’s in here,” Marsh says, pointing to his temple, “on paper.” He sees hundreds of paintings a day; they just don’t make it to the canvas. Tree roots seen every day for years heaving from the pavement on Virginia Avenue suddenly make it to his canvas. He draws two cows in a field, adds six, scratches out three, then draws in two more before he’s content with the results.

Marsh’s goal was to have a New York exhibition before he was thirty. He did. He is represented by some of the most prestigious galleries in the East, and it is they who set his prices. His works are included in the collections of Bank of America, Southeastern Center for the Contemporary Art, Wake Forest University, Duke Power, and the United States State Department to

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Education Station Introducing Terri Bowman

as Center Director at Sylvan Learning of Danville After 19 years of teaching elementary school, I have made a career change to join the team of educators at Sylvan Learning of Danville. I am excited to carry on my influence with children and families in the area, but now I’m in a different venue. I come from a family of educators - with three sisters and a husband in education - but I’m the first to venture into private, supplemental education services like Sylvan.

Even though I was a teacher at Westover Christian Academy in Danville, I honestly knew very little about Sylvan, other than what we all have seen on TV and online.

I’m so new to Sylvan and still learning all that we do, yet I am very impressed with what Sylvan does and how we do it.

This painting by Robert Marsh is part of the current exhibit at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History.

name but a few. Oh, and of course the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and Averett University, where he has taught since 1969.

Known for his sardonic wit, which is not always fully appreciated at 8:00 a.m. by the students who take his dawn-breaking class, Marsh introduces reluctant football players and art majors alike to “how the eye sees, what is visually stimulating, the materials and approaches used in art, and the cultural concepts found in the creation and appreciation of works of art.” (AU’s catalog description of Art 103.) He asks questions, gives hints, then supplies the answer in such a way that the student thinks he came up with it himself. “Kids are great,” he says.

“They’re all kids to me.” His affection for his students is genuine, as is theirs for him. One student dubbed him “cool, in an old school kind of way,” perhaps an allusion to Marsh’s choice of Rock n’ Roll hits from the 60s and 70s that he plays in his studio classes. In addition, teaching affords him the luxury of saying no to someone who wants to commission a painting to match their sofa. And the early morning classes allow him to paint the rest of the day, then take one club only and walk, not ride, nine holes on the golf course, weather permitting.

It’s been 30 years since he’s staged an exhibition at the DMFAH. Don’t miss this one!

• For more information, go to www.danvillemuseum.org, call 434.793.5644 or visit the DMFAH at 975 Main Street.

Sylvan is a perfect complement to any student’s education plan. Sylvan is meant to address academic needs that influence a student’s success in the classroom – in public school, private school, or homeschool. Whether it’s a student who’s struggling in school and worried about retention in a current grade year, or someone who’s just not challenged enough in school, Sylvan can help students at all ends of the education spectrum. I have found a highly capable group of skilled teachers at Sylvan who love to teach and help students learn.

The entire team is focused on each individual student’s needs.

Sylvan has a system designed around each student and the education goals their family has, and the system works! The Sylvan Insight assessment starts the process to help us learn how that student is performing when compared to their peers and to the family’s goals. Then a personalized plan is created to teach the skills that child needs to improve and reach their goals.

What a dream for any teacher! At Sylvan our teachers work with students on each skill until they MASTER it, not just “pass” it. Every teacher can relate to how nice this system is, for inevitably the pacing of the curriculum that has to be covered over a school year forces teachers to move on to the next lesson, even though we know some students haven’t yet mastered the current lesson. Sylvan moves ahead only after the student demonstrates their mastery of the skills.

I am still learning, but I would look forward to helping any of our readers learn more about how Sylvan can help their child catch up, keep up, or get ahead! Call me today, so we can get started.

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February 2014

Photo Finish

Annette Roncaglione, DSC Administrator; Wayne Warren and Donna Redd

Evince Photographer Von Wellington, joined the standing-room only crowd at Danville Science Center’s Corks & Forks on Friday, January 17th. All proceeds from the event will help fund DSC activities, exhibits and more.

Here are a few photos of the fun-loving DSC supporters from the Danville area and beyond.

To learn more, visit www.dsc.smv.org or call 434.791.5160.

Brandon and Rebecca Laughinghouse, Audrey Pearson

Scott Jones & Glenda Hardison

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

Allen & Kelsey Thompson

Angela Harris, Alisa Davis

John Dickinson, Genna Turner, Dave Slayton and Janet Holley

Cara Burton, Niko Akers (DSC Guest Services) Dick Alwood, Tommi Nevin

Evince Magazine

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Rachael Sanford, Silvana Miller, Tina Samuel-Priestley

Mike Compson, Ben Rippe, Deborah Touchstone, Miki Younger, Susan Compson

Helen Gu, Francois Chenard

John Crane, Allison & Scott Shackelford

Karl Stauber, Mike & Laura Jones

Vickie Adams Lovelace (DSC Board of Directors) & Stuart Lovelace, Suzanne Stowe, Rosemarie Percario Courtney & Bob Dodson

Larry Stamps, Corrie Teague (DSC Board of Directors)

Sharon Campbell, Marsha Smith