Evince Magazine March 2017

Evince Magazine Page  1

Canadian Finds Gibson Girl Connection in Danville Page 14

Kristina Barkhouser

Working with Ponies, People, and Horses See Page 3

Editor’s Note

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

Page 2 March 2017

Do you want a happier life by using money more wisely, growing deeper community roots, spending less time cooking and cleaning, increasing physical strength, balance, and coordination? All you need to know about accomplishing these goals and being efficient is here.

Kristina Barkhouser, pictured on the cover, is a model of efficiency. Follow her example and advice on page 3, Diane Adkins recommends reading Lighten Up: Love What You Have, Have What You Need, Be Happier with Less. Melody Warnick is coming to Danville to teach you about loving where you live and growing roots. See page 26. For a quick dinner that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, use the “Around the Table” recipe on page 29. Having less housework might start with reading “The More You Own The More You Dust” on page 26.

Meditation expert Casey Molloy has easy suggestions to improve your physical and mental health on page 21.

With all the extra time and energy you’ll have from being efficient, read: fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg (page 10), humor from Kim Clifton (page 9) and Mack Williams (page 27), Dena Hill and Larry Oldham’s “Efficiency of Words” (page 4), “Chasing Efficiency” by Linda Lemery (page 22), “Renovation Reality” on page 7 and “DIY Do or Don’t” on page 11. Finally, be sure to read page 14 and learn why there’s a cat with a cocktail on the cover!

March Contents

2 Editor’s Note 3

4

Kristina Barkhouser Working with Ponies, People, and Horses

by Joyce Wilburn Are You an Efficient Person/Employee?

by Kristina Barkhouser She Said He Said / The Efficiency of Words

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

Photo of Kristina Barkhouser

by Michelle Dalton Photographer

OICE OF EFFICIENCY

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

7 Renovation Reality / Part 12 by Carla Minosh 8 Where Can I Find an Evince?

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Joyce Wilburn 9 Second Thoughts / Melting Pots

by Kim Clifton 10 Robert / Fiction

by Telisha Moore Leigg 11 DIY: Do or Don’t? / Spring Wreath by Kristi Hall 13 Volunteering / An Efficient Way to Improve Your Life

by Rachel Covington 14 Canadian Finds Gibson Girl Connection in Danville

by Kathy Ramsay

The Lady Astor Cocktail 16 Calendar Clips 18 Calendar 20 Book Clubbing / Lighten Up: Love What You Have,

Have What You Need, Be Happier with Less by Peter Walsh

a review by Diane Adkins 21 Meditation Moment / The Voice of Efficiency

by Casey Molloy 22 Reflecting Forward

Chasing Efficiency: To Dream the Impossible Dream

by Linda Lemery 24 Wine Spot / Cork or Screw Cap? That Is the Question

by Dave Slayton 25 What’s Happening in the Public Libraries 26 The More You Own, the More You Dust

by Carollyn Lee Peerman

Why I Don’t Buy Everything on Amazon

by Melody Warnick 27 A Day in Court Ends Too Soon by Mack Williams 29 Around the Table / Roasting Lemon Chicken Efficiently

by Annelle Williams 30 Photo Finish

On the Cover:

THE

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

Meet Some of Our Contributors

Hope this Voice of Efficiency helps you to have a great month!

Editor Joyce Wilburn (434.799.3160) joycewilburn@gmail.com Associate Editors Jeanette Taylor Larry Wilburn Contributing Writers

Diane Adkins, Kristina Barkhouser, Mike Bennington, Kim Clifton, Cathy Cole, Rachel Covington, Erin Gusler, Kristi Hall, Dena Hill, Sonja Ingram, Bettie Smith Josey, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Erica Lowdermilk, Tuss Macpherson, Carla Minosh, Casey Molloy, Bernadette Moore, Larry Oldham, Carollyn Lee Peerman, Kathy Ramsay, Evelyn Riley, Rachel Shaw, Dave Slayton, Jay Stephens, Ann Sylves, Lisa Tuite, Melanie Vaughan, Melody Warnick, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams

Business Manager Paul Seiple(1.877.638.8685) paul@evincemagazine.com Marketing Consultants Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net Lee Vogler (434.548.5335) lee@showcasemagazine.com Art & Production Director Demont Design (Kim Demont) evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW Deadline for submission of April stories, articles, and ads is Friday, March 24, at 5:00 p.m.

Submit stories, articles, and calendar items to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

For ad information contact a marketing consultant or the Director of Sales & Marketing listed above.

Editorial Policies:

eVince is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute eVince free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum.

They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

EVINCE MAGAZINE 753 Main St. Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541 www.evincemagazine.com © 2017 All rights reserved.

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

Sincerely,

Credits: Amber Wilson: hair; Catherine Saunders: skin care and makeup; Genesis Day Spa & Salon, 695 Park Avenue, Danville. Janelle Gammon: nails; Salon One 11, 111 Sandy Court, Danville.

Bettie Smith Josey spotted exceptional customer service recently at Food Lion. See page 8.

Erin Gusler is an events and communications coordinator who loves being involved in the River District, writing and photography.

Sonja Ingram is an archaeologist and historic preservationist who works for Preservation Virginia, Virginia’s statewide historic preservation organization.

Tuss Macpherson is a member of The Wednesday Club. She enjoys traveling and all the adventures that retirement allows.

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

For subscriptions to Evince, email cindy@showcasemagazine.com

Evince Magazine Page 3

K

ristina Barkhouser,

President of Excelen

Performance, fondly remembers her first paying job as a 12-year-old on a pony farm. “On Saturdays, I would bathe ponies, load ponies onto trailers, and take ponies to picnics and fairs where I’d lead them around with children on their backs,” she says while laughing between the words. “I worked my hiney off--wrangling ponies, tacking ponies, walking kids. That’s how I got the money to buy shoes and other things I wanted,” explains the independent business consultant whose homebase is in Danville.

Sitting in her small, neat office on Riverside Drive, the selfmade professional recalls skipping her senior year in high school, graduating at age 16 with an A average, and stepping onto the first rung of the career ladder. “I had no guidance but knew I had to get out of school and start working,” she says. With a gung-ho attitude to motivate her, Kristina worked for Integon and GMAC Insurance in Winston Salem in just about every department and became the go-to person for training new employees. Eventually, Kristina became the supervisor of the training department and mentored other trainers in the art of training and employee development.

As her career developed, the woman who spent childhood summers in her father’s native Switzerland, frequently traveled to Northern Ireland as the Training Manager for an international pharmaceutical supply company based in Durham. “That was a challenging yet fulfilling job. It was exciting,” she remembers, “but commuting three hours round-trip every day from Danville was difficult.” In 2012, a year after she and James Barkhouser were married, the newly-weds decided it was time for her to become an independent consultant and start a business in her new hometown. “The name of my business, Excelen Performance, came from the idea that we should all strive to excel in personal and business performance,” she explains.

Kristina’s years of experience combined with professional

Kristina Barkhouser

Working with Ponies, People, and Horses

by Joyce Wilburn

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography.

credentials earned from the Association for Talent Development, an international group for workplace learning and performance professionals, has caught the attention of local businesses who hire her to address major strategic issues and/or improve everyday business practices. “Customer service is

my passion,” she comments. “In fact, I’m currently working on an eBook, The 7 Social Graces of Standout Customer Service. We need to go back to the basics of being gracious to one another-doing things that we learned as toddlers like saying please and thank you, acknowledging when Continued to Page 13

various efficiency measures as benchmarks for success. So, how do you spot an efficient employee?

Are You an Efficient Person/Employee?

by Kristina Barkhouser

Job seekers often cite their communication skills and their love of people as traits that should make them appealing to employers. However, what most employers really value

is efficiency. Efficiency is the measurable ability to avoid wasting materials, energy, efforts, money and time in doing something or producing a desired result. Almost all industries use

Observe organizational skills Efficient employees are very organized and know what they are working on, what to work on next, and what can wait. They use lists, folders, segregation of tasks, and delegation to accomplish more than their peers. They subscribe to the “only handle it once” O.H.I.O. theory of working. Thomas Jefferson said, “Never use two words when one will do.” I like to say, “Never handle the same piece of work twice when once should do!” Efficient employees focus on the quality of their work and do things right the first time.

They also move in a way that is more efficient by making one trip instead of multiple trips for supplies, tasks, etc.

Continued to Page 13

Page 4 March 2017

SHE SAID

HE SAID

The Efficiency of Words

Ouch! Someone really did get up on the wrong side of the bed this morning. Because Evince’s theme this month is efficiency, I thought about helping you become more efficient by limiting your number of words. Here’s the thing. As a couple, one of us, not mentioning any names, talks more than the other. One of us is quieter, more restrained, a better diplomat and so on and so on. I am not accusing just saying it takes two to run a ship or to use your analogy, keep the car safely in its own lane, going in the correct direction and never receiving a ticket. Well, sometimes we speed.

Sometimes we go too slowly.

Sometimes we are uninformed.

Sometimes we are more informed than others. Do you get my drift?

by Dena Hill

by Larry Oldham

“Wait! Stop! Please let me finish a sentence before interrupting me.”

You may think you know what I’m about to say but that isn’t always the case. You seem to become more impatient as the years go by and I can’t figure out where you’re racing to--what’s at the finish line?

Maybe there is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and you want to be the first one to claim it. I might do the same thing by interrupting you and if so, we both need to slow down and listen.

Listen is the key word here.

Every discussion about a problem doesn’t need to end in a solution because sometimes there just isn’t one. I have a friend who starts most of his sentences with, “You don’t know this but....” and he continues talking, assuming that I don’t know anything. How dare he! But that’s a friend/friend issue and I usually ignore it and then come and tell you how frustrating it is. You don’t talk down to me; you just talk for me when you think you already know what I’m going to say. Do you know how many times I’ve listened to all of your story and kept my mouth closed? #53 is a particularly funny one so I’m usually hoping that your audience will find it funny and you’ll enjoy entertaining them.

I know you like talking but once in a while, you need to give someone else the spotlight. Conversations are a two-way street with cars/ voices going in both directions equally. So how about stopping at the traffic light instead of getting ticketed for running right through it? Who knows, maybe there really is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and we’ll find it together.

She said He Said

The idea I am trying to get across is that I am just trying to save time when we converse. If I know the point of the story or I have already read the story on the internet, I’m saying, “Yea baby, I hear you, but I already know.” This way you can tell me another story that I haven’t heard and one we both might find more interesting. Now to be a polite, politically correct gentleman, I should let you finish your story, pretend never to have heard it, smile and never answer. That would not be me, and after all, you did marry me for me.

The one thing that I admired about you from the beginning was you’re the only girl I dated who never tried to change me--until now. I can change. I can give you the kind of man you want who is made in your own thoughtful image, but it won’t be me or the man you married. Now back to story #53, that was one of my funnier adventures, don’t you think?

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

Evince Magazine Page  5

Page  6 March 2017

Evince Magazine Page 7 a master bathroom. Of course, the 1940s blue bathroom that adjoined the bedroom would have to go, but that would be no loss.

When demolition began, we realized there would be a three-foot space between the bathroom floor and the ceiling of the kitchen below. This ignited my imagination. I envisioned the space as a Roman bath, completely covered in marble tile with a giant sunken soaking pool in the center of the floor and a separate, smaller area for the sinks and toilet. I saw hidden lighting adding drama to the effects of multiple steam units pouring thick hot vapor throughout the grand space--a private luxury spa, just off my bedroom. Tom listened patiently to my description and began preliminary drawings. When he was done, I was less than enthusiastic. In place of my exotic luxury Roman spa was a very traditional Victorian-style bathroom. Logic eventually won

Renovation Reality Part 12

by Carla Minosh Notice the windows that touch the floor, the shower on the left, and the sunken tub on the right. The cast iron radiator with food warmer attachement is perfect for keeping towels warm.

Unlike shows on HGTV where home renovations are completed within 30-60 minutes, the Victorian house at the corner of Chestnut Place and Main Street in Danville has been under a transformation for 16 years. This series that began in April 2016 explores the truth of home renewal from someone who has been there and done that. If you missed any of the installments, visit www. evincemagazine.com.

A

fter we had finished our

front porch project with

all of the delays, difficulties, disasters and defects, it would be logical to take a break. Logic is obviously something we do not possess. We surveyed our new domicile and decided we needed a master suite.

The smallest bedroom on the second floor seemed to fit the bill. At one point in history, it had been as big as the other bedrooms until a wing was added on the back of the house.

In order to access the new wing on the second floor, a section from the bedroom was stolen to create a hallway. This narrow passageway took three steps down into a series of storage rooms and a walled-up staircase that lead to the firstfloor kitchen. It would be the perfect space for

over fantasy, however, and I began to embrace the new plan.

Immediately, we knew that eliminating the three steps down into the bathroom was important. Walking into the room would be very treacherous especially in the middle of the night. Although raising the floor meant that it now met the bottom of the windows, it was a rather elegant look. It also made room for a sunken tub, a bow to my original, albeit impractical, Roman spa theme. I brought up the concept of a steam shower again, but Tom was adamant that it would be more trouble than it was worth. He was not interested. The key to a good marriage is to pick your battles and this was not one worth fighting, so I moved on, the vision of steam in my bathroom fading into nothing.

(to be continued)

Page 8 March 2017 Evince

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Page 14

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Providing a Sound Track for Moving Forward See Pag e3

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Bettie Smith Josey

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 El Vallarta Goodwill on Westover Drive IHOP Joe & Mimma’s Karen’s Hallmark Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. URW Community Credit Union Western Sizzlin YMCA

Main & West Main Street River District Area A La Carte Home Decor American National Bank Brewed Awakening Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History Danville Public Library Danville Regional Medical Center Danville Science Center Dell’ Anno’s Pizza Kitchen Food Lion @ Ballou Park Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market Rippe’s

Piney Forest Road Area

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

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

In Chatham Area

Community Center Chatham Health Center ChathaMooCa Frank’s Pizza PCP Library on Military Drive In Tightsqueeze Food Lion Frank’s American National Bank URW Community Credit Union

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Food Lion Hickerbilly’s Kitchen

In South Boston

Bistro 1888 Halifax County Public Library O’ Sole Mio South Boston Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts & History Southern Virginia Higher Education The Prizery Toots Creek Antiques Mall

In Martinsville

Frank’s Pizza Ginger Bread House

China Buffett El Ranchito Elizabeth’s Pizza Martinsville Visitor Center The Pacifica Bay Restaurant

Other

In Yanceyville, NC

Memorial Drive

Danville Welcome Center Food Lion Southwyck Plaza

Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store

With a lot of bad things happening in Danville and around the world, it is awesome to know that there are still nice people around. Recently, I went to Food Lion in Southwyck Plaza on Route 86 (the one I always go to). It was later than usual because I try not to go to stores after dark. I was at the check-out when the store manager, Lorenzo Seal, asked me why I was there so late. He remarked that he knows his customers and realized that this was not the time I normally shop. Employees at most places would not have noticed that. Then, he walked me to my car! I greatly appreciated it. I love my Food Lion. I have never been there when Lorenzo was working that he doesn’t speak to me and ask how I am doing. That means a lot and it makes Food Lion the kind of place where I want to shop. Lorenzo Seal deserves the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award.

Evince and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce want to encourage and recognize exceptional customer service. When someone gives you exceptional service, please let us know. In 300 words or less, tell us what happened. Email your story to joycewilburn@ gmail.com or chamber@dpchamber.org.

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Evince Magazine Page 9 results--an empty hook and an empty stomach. It’s just more embarrassing when the one that got away is floating atop gurgling Gouda. Fondue may be fashionable, but it’s basically just social sopping and makes as much sense as eating popcorn with a spoon. It does make mealtime fun, though, which is a concept most of us haven’t enjoyed since the high chair.

From the looks of me, it would be hard to imagine that I ever needed coaxing to eat. When I did, it was really more trickery than persuasion. One minute I was opening the hangar for a plane to land and the next I was swallowing strained peas.

Even so, if you make it fun, people will eat it. If you stick a paper umbrella in it, people will drink it. Sharing isn’t just limited to the main course. Once I found myself included in a group cocktail called a Volcano.

It was a fruity mixture served in a Bundt pan, except there was a flame in the center tube and straws floating in the part where the cake batter usually goes. One swallow was enough although it

Second Thoughts

by Kim Clifton ©2017

Melting Pots If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. If Old Man Winter traps you indoors with only dried cheese and stale bread, invent fondue. That’s pretty much how it happened long ago in Switzerland. Talk about your simple suppers. Food Network Chef Rachael Ray wouldn’t need the entire 30 minutes to make this meal; she could knock it out during a commercial break.

At the start, the Swiss tossed the stiff cheese into a pan to melt it. Then, they chopped the loaves into cubes, stabbed them with a fork and swirled them in the hot goo.

Sometimes they sweetened the pot by adding a little wine into the mix. That way, even if their dinner guests realized they were being served recycled

leftovers, maybe they wouldn’t care. Communal consumption has evolved since then. Fondue is no longer a survival ration; it’s an entertaining appetizer or a three-course dinner. Fondue sets come with a pot, matching skewers, and even a Bunsen burner. They’re also a popular choice for wedding gifts although I suspect more people give them than use them. So, if you’re ever in the market, there’s no need to rush to the store--you can always find one at a newlywed’s yard sale.

Eating this way isn’t just a tabletop campfire without the tents or mosquitoes. It’s more like fishing, requiring the same steady hands and patience. Whether you’re at a pond or a party, jerking back too fast gives you the same

was delicious. I was reminded of the time when my nephews were toddlers, offering me tastes of apple juice with a film of crackers bobbing on the surface. That’s the real reason one sip was enough; I was afraid of backwash.

When the dinner bell rings, I guess I’m just old fashioned. I want my meal on my plate and my drink in my glass. The only things I want to share at the table are stories and opinions.

I would have never survived a winter in Switzerland during the 1600s. If nothing else, I’m certain I would have chipped a tooth on stale bread or choked on some stiff cheese. There’s been a lot of debate on who really “invented” fondue. I’d like to think it was a frantic housewife with an empty cupboard and houseful of company who had to be fed and entertained. We may never know, but the idea not only saved the day, it made hors d’oeuvres history. And all this time I thought the Swiss were mostly famous for army knives and bank accounts.

Page 10 March 2017 successful, kind of sad. And that brother had a son, Robert. I guess this made him my cousin.

We were kin. Like I said he was dead before I ever met him. This Robert. I thought he was my brother so much so that when young, well younger, I crawled into my father’s lap and touched the pretty pictures, the wise-eyed boy and his smiling, curly-haired cuteness.

The gods remember.

Dr. Bartholomew Corinth classics professor, father of Anna Margaret (aka Mandy Blue Eyes)

“M

y father didn’t like early

mornings, socks with

different colored heels, or the smell of gardenias. So my mother and I tiptoed in the mornings as we got me ready for school. We sorted his stark, full-dark socks at the kitchen table and Mother grew roses, not gardenias, many roses, red mostly. Some were pale pink.

I was young; it was still fun operating around his genius.

My father wouldn’t eat sweet pickles, soft cheese, or wheat bread. Who doesn’t eat wheat bread? I mean if you eat bread at all? He said it was the principle of the matter. He said that he grew up with it, which was not remarkable because he came from some middle state where they grew wheat. I found it both mystifying and unsettling that my father had a life before me, that there was an origin to him. He did have that life before me, one that he would not talk about. Of course, there was something sad in it. Usually is.

Robert fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg Later, from my mother, I learned some of my father’s past as we darned socks in the kitchen. How it wasn’t that my father didn’t ever go back home during our long summers, but that he shouldn’t, couldn’t. My mother joked looking out the kitchen window into her roses and the purple hyacinths she now grew in her flowerbed. She did not meet my curious eyes as she waved her right hand toward the sink. She said, “There is nothing back there but wheat, rusty plows, and freezing winters. Eat your French toast, Anna-Margaret.” So, I did.

But what is dark is dark even in the light. My father was like that, dark in the light. His lectures in the oak-paneled college lecture hall were packed. His serious students came early because late students stood taking notes against the wall with the others.

They all came to hear and try to absorb my father’s errant wisdom.

And he was wise, my father.

In that lecture hall, my father roared out the cultural context of Hera in modern society, brought down the house with his fevered lecture of the various influences of Greek and Latin on Western literary tradition. But at home for days on end he couldn’t hold a conversation longer than a minute without needing to write a note, his need for unrelenting quiet as he composed his lectures.

He ignored the meatloaf Mother deliberated over. My Papa was at ease with ancient tongues, but I never heard him say I love you to her, and I became a sweet ghost silently watching. Please don’t mistake. Mother and I were loved, but I knew that we were not fast enough to chase the sun Papa was always running around. It was lonely sometimes living with his genius. And maybe, just maybe, that genius was not always so honeyed for him either.

There was a scrapbook behind the bed on my father’s side in my parents’ bedroom. I have seen it.

In it, there is picture of a boy, dead long before I knew him. His name was Robert. But we cannot speak of him. I cannot take the pictures from the album, these pictures of Robert, and I cannot take these memories from my father like rain swept away because the sorrow has already sunk in. These pictures, why does my father keep them? He does not like them.

According to my mother, my father had a brother, not

“Who is that, Papa?” I whispered.

It is the first time I ever saw him cry. He said, “Just old memories that I’ll pay for one day.” My father pushed me from his lap, went into the kitchen and ate a bagel.

I think of my father’s gods. If the Fates were kind, all Icarus saw was his end; there would be no more to his end but his death, if the Fates were just that kind. But they are not, are they? The end of life isn’t just the sea pulled back from the shore like a toddler’s cradle.

No, there’s the underworld, where you become the wave on and on and on, no sun-sweet slumber, when all you want is to get back to those you can only watch, those who you can no longer touch, those who can’t feel your love.

At almost 15, when Mother and I were leaving Papa for good, for Boris, North Carolina, he sat in the kitchen chair crumpling an old newspaper advertisement we were wrapping dishes in. He didn’t like the news, didn’t believe or read it really. Mother looked at him for a long time before she turned away into the kitchen, before she told the movers to take her bedroom furniture because it was an heirloom from her family.

It was me who brought the fallen album to him, my papa. And this album is what he cradled, this album, not me. He looked up to me, tracing a picture under the plastic cover. He says, “I’m sorry,” and I guess I knew why—we were leaving, or rather Mother was and I was going with her. I would have stayed with him if he had asked, but he didn’t. Papa looked again at the plastic covered picture.

I peeked into the album for a second as he did, as he looked at that boy, Robert. Papa looked so sad. And for a second I felt gone and plastic-smothered just like the sad little boy. “What happened to him?” I suddenly asked Papa. “I forget,” he lied. He quirked a sad smile. “Be good,” Papa says and he touches my hand. That was the last time I saw him cry, looking at Mother, then at me, and then at that picture. I left him to his ghosts, but still, I told Papa, “I’ll be good,” and he could come to visit, but he didn’t look up again.

Evince Magazine Page 11

DIY: Do or Don’t?

Spring Wreath

by Kristi Hall Do-It-Yourself Projects always look easy when someone else is doing it. Kristi will test them for you and give her opinion about whether it’s worth your time and effort.

Spring arrives on Monday, March 20. Be prepared with this DIY project!

Supplies: • 12 inch wire wreath frame • 3 rolls of mesh (I used one color.)

• pipe cleaners (Use the same color as the mesh.)

• 12 pack of Easter eggs or whatever spring décor you like • hot glue gun or craft glue • Command strip for hanging Directions: • Gather 3-4 inches of mesh together depending on how puffy you want the wreath and secure it to the wreath frame with a pipe cleaner. Continue around the frame several times. If you are using more than one color, alternate the colors after the first time

around the wreath. You want a full wreath with no visible pipe cleaners.

• Glue on the eggs or other décor.

Now hang the wreath and spring into the new season! I give this DIY project 4 stars out of 5. It’s time consuming and takes a lot of focus. Overall, I’m very pleased and have received lots of compliments. You can also switch it up and create one for each season or celebration, not to mention they make great gifts. *Do you have a suggestion for Kristi’s next project? Email your ideas to joycewilburn@ gmail.com.

Page  12 March 2017

Evince Magazine Page 13

Kristina Barkhouser

Continued from Page 3

people speak to us, holding doors open. In business, we should blend social graces with customer service.” Kristina plans for this book to be available in the early fall as supplemental material for training workshops.

In her first book (available on Amazon), Leadership Communication: Straight From the Horse’s Mouth, Kristina writes about how the human/ equine relationship can teach readers to be better leaders.

The title is based on the Nelson Mandela quotation, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” To illustrate, she uses the analogy of someone training a horse. “If I talk to the horse like I talk to people, that’s not the horse’s language. His language is eye contact, pressure, and body movement. The horse and I can communicate only if I speak his language. In business, we must observe other people and communicate in a way that works for them.”

Kristina’s thoughts then drift to her beloved horse, Rocky, stabled a few miles away on a farm in the country. “I love being at the barn on nice days like

today,” she comments wistfully.

She loves being with Rocky, but could she also be remembering those youthful days working on the pony farm where it all began? Probably not.

• If you have customer service stories to share with Kristina, email them to kbarkhouser@ ExcelenPerformance.com. If your contribution is included in her next book, you’ll receive a free copy.

• For more information, visit www.excelenPerformance.com or call 434.797.6770.

• To nominate someone for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award, see page 8.

Are You an Efficient Person/Employee?

Continued from Page 3 Observe focus and multi-tasking Multitasking isn’t always optimal. Efficient people will only combine tasks when the combined output will exceed the output of each task if done independently. For example, it’s very difficult to count items and do something else at the same time, unless the other thing is to observe for defects. Even then, it may be more efficient to count first and then do a second scan for defects. When someone claims to be a great multitasker, it’s sometimes a warning flag that they rarely focus on tasks with the required intensity. The key is to know when multitasking makes sense and when it’s a detriment to efficiency.

Observe a sense of urgency Efficient people operate with a sense of urgency in all things,

even when the stakes aren’t so high. They’re unwilling to do things at a leisurely pace, even if the pressure is off. Customers love to see employees working with a sense of urgency. It doesn’t have to appear rushed, but rather that all tasks are important and have the appropriate level of energy applied.

Efficiency is a skill that can be trained, learned, observed and measured. Some people are naturally efficient and others aren’t, but in a competitive job market, the efficient employee is much more valuable.

Whether you’re looking for a job, wanting to hire an employee, or evaluating your own level of efficiency, see if you can spot these traits. If you can, then your chances of success are good.

Volunteering

An Efficient Way to Improve Your Life

by Rachel Covington What do you think of when you hear the word volunteer?

For most people, it prompts thoughts of giving back, sacrificing time, and doing good deeds for others. But these ideas do not tell the whole story. Volunteering contributes to the building of reciprocal relationships, which means that the volunteer receives just as much benefit as those being served. Engaging in volunteer service can teach new skills that could lead to work, improve physical and mental health, help you discover passions and interests, and even provide opportunities to make new friends. Therefore, if volunteering can improve the community and individuals, then why aren’t we all volunteering?

The Center for Community Engagement & Career Competitiveness (CCECC) at Averett University was created to shift our culture to one where service is the norm. The CCECC acts as the regional hub for volunteerism and encourages a culture of service in the Dan River Region. We are challenging you to serve365!

Serve365 is an online platform that connects individuals with community organizations through service in an effort to engage the Dan River Region 365 days of the year. Every resident in Caswell County, Danville, and Pittsylvania County can visit www.serve365.org to

explore volunteer opportunities.

We encourage you to use serve365 to search for…

1. NEEDS in our community that can be addressed through volunteerism. These needs or projects could include installing vinyl on a Habitat for Humanity home or tutoring children at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Danville Area. All of the project details, including the organization’s contact information, are at the click of a button.

2. EVENTS hosted by community organizations in which you and your family can participate. These events range from regional festivals and celebrations to organized trail races.

3. AGENCIES that need your help. This is a great tool if you aren’t sure where to start, because it allows you to scroll through a list of community organizations and choose the one that is best for you.

If you have any questions about serve365 or would like to create an agency profile for your organization, contact Averett University’s Assistant Director of Community Engagement, Rachel Covington by emailing rcovington@averett.edu or calling 434.791.7215.

Page 14 March 2017 age I was told the history of this fashion icon and knew my grandmother’s use of that title to be a compliment of the highest order.

Gibson Girl poses next to a Gibson Martini.

Canadian Finds Gibson Girl Connection in Danville

by Kathy Ramsay How many times in life do you decide on a spontaneous visit to an unfamiliar city and serendipitously find much of your life’s story and memories there? Probably not often, but quite surprisingly, it happened to me on a recent visit to Danville, Virginia.

From my youthful days in Canada, I have been aware of famous regional industries like Dan River Mills and Burlington Mills. Anyone who sewed or shopped in outlet stores knows these iconic brands and the economic importance that they had for many cities, towns and families. Since moving to Greensboro a few years ago, I’ve visited several former mill towns to see what is happening now in this era of global trade and domestic economic turmoil.

Recently, I brought a houseguest from Canada on an outing to see Danville--a city with a proud mill heritage that is reinventing itself as a

21st century community. We met our tour guide from the Danville Historical Society and had a wonderful time learning about Danville’s history and viewing the beautiful, lovingly restored homes on Main Street and the sensitively curated historic museum. It was all very interesting and entertaining, but for me, the final site of the tour was the show stopper. We were standing in front of the Langhorne House Museum at 117 Broad Street and our guide was explaining to us that this was the home of the Gibson Girl. “Perhaps you have heard of her?” she inquired somewhat hesitantly. I guess not everyone can say yes but I certainly did and I had to admit that in spite of my knowledge of the feminine ideal of the early 1900s, I didn’t have any idea of her birth place.

My Pittsburgh grandmother would often reference her when my sister and I were dressed for church or a special occasion.

She’d exclaim, “My goodness, don’t you just look like real Gibson Girls!” From an early

At that moment on a sunny afternoon in late October while standing in front of the house where Irene Langhorne Gibson had lived, memories of my grandmother and her praises rushed to mind. But, there’s more. I was also reminded of my beloved feline companion whom I had left at home. Many years ago I was given a Ragdoll cat and named him Dr. Martini. This name was partly for the cocktail and partly for the fact that he was to be my psychotherapist during a challenging period in my life.

When he died, I fervently wanted another companion and adopted a beautiful Norwegian Forest kitten. She needed a name and I wanted to follow the tradition of using the name of a cocktail.

Remembering the Gibson martini, I settled very quickly on Gibson Girl. The Gibson is a gin-andvermouth drink garnished with an onion, but more importantly, the name reflects my cat’s traits as a quintessential beauty with a lovely look and sweet disposition.

My Gibson Girl traveled the world with me when I worked for the U.S. State Department and has lived in Russia, Slovenia and Turkmenistan. She also accompanied me on many long

road trips in the United States.

If she could talk she would have stories to tell!

All these thoughts came to mind as I stood in front of Irene Gibson’s childhood home in Danville. I said to myself, “Danville, you will always have a special place in my heart after this one very memorable visit, but it’s not the last. We’re connected now.”

• One legend about the genesis of the Gibson martini is that artist Charles Dana Gibson, who painted his wife in her fabulous outfits and made her a celebrity in the 1920s, is responsible for the drink. Gibson challenged a bartender to improve upon the martini’s recipe, so the mixologist substituted an onion for the olive and named the drink after Gibson.

• All Dolled Up is the current exhibit at the Langhorne House Museum. It features dolls and accessories spanning Lady Astor’s lifetime from the late 1800s to 1950. She was born in 1879, died in 1964, and is buried in England. The Museum is open Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

There is no admission fee; donations are accepted.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

The Lady Astor Cocktail One never knows where a little bit of Danville history will pop up. On a recent visit to the Lemaire Restaurant at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia, I discovered a Lady Astor cocktail on the menu. I was shocked! Danvillian Lady Nancy Langhorne Astor, the first woman to be elected to the House of Commons in London and sister to the Gibson Girl, was a teetotaler like her husband, Lord Astor, one of the richest men in the world.

Despite the irony, I felt it was my duty to taste it and then ask for the recipe to share with my readers. Here it is thanks to General Manager Greg McGehe.

Enjoy responsibly. JW

Red cranberry juice gives the drink a bit of color.

1 1/2 oz. vodka (They used Grey Goose.)

1/2 oz. white cranberry juice 1/2 oz. Contreau 1/4 oz. lime juice Shake for 10 seconds with crushed ice. Strain into a glass. Garnish with a slice of orange or lime or maybe a mint leaf.

Evince Magazine Page  15

Page 16 March 2017

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18.

Wednesday, March 1 – Monday, April 17 Save Your StuffDMFA Attic Sale

In mid-April, the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History will begin accepting donations of furniture, pictures, musical instruments, cameras and other interesting, gently-used items.

When you organize, clean, declutter, or move call the DMFAH 434.793.5644. Your donated goods are tax deductible. No clothes or shoes. Large items can be picked up. Proceeds benefit the DMFAH. Shopping begins on Friday, April 21, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for members. Membership forms are available at the door. Sale continues on Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to1:00 p.m. (submitted by Ann Sylves)

Saturday, March 4 Book Signing by Author Mike Bennington

The father/son team of Mike and Spencer Bennington co-authored If and adopted the pseudonym of Spencer Michaels for this first book in a trilogy. If is described as a satisfying page-turning journey for both romance and fantasy readers. Meet Mike from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Karen’s Hallmark in Danville Mall, 325 Piedmont Drive, upper level. Mike is a former Sacred Heart School music teacher. Spencer is an adjunct professor at the University of South Florida. (submitted by Mike Bennington)

Saturday, March 4

Caribbean Beach Party

The Dan River Nonprofit Network is hosting this fundraiser at the Stratford Conference Center, 149 Piney Forest Road, Danville, from 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.

Tickets are $25 and include two drink tickets, music, food, fun, and games. Wear beach attire and maybe win the best beach costume contest. There will also be a cash bar, a silent auction, and 50/50 raffle. For more information, visit www.danrivernonprofits.org or call 434.792.3700 ext 226. (submitted by Evelyn Riley)

Wednesday, March 8 An Insider’s Look at Celebrities of the Past

Mike Clark was a movie critic and professional theatre producer during the 1970s and 1980s. He will share backstage stories of major film and theatre stars: Tony Bennett, Carol Burnett, Phyllis Diller, George Hamilton, Rock Hudson, Oprah Winfrey, and more. All are invited to this free presentation by The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street, starting at 3:45 p.m. (submitted by Tuss MacPherson)

Saturday, March 18 DHS Speakeasy

The Danville Historical Society is hosting this speakeasy-themed fundraiser at the Pepsi Building, 661 Craghead Street, from 7:00 p.m. until midnight. DJ Ben Wright will provide jazz, swing, blues, and contemporary dance music. Tickets are Denise & Frank VanValkenburg, Susan Stilwell $25 and include food, music, and a silent auction. There will be a cash bar. Dressing in 1920s-1930s style attire is encouraged but not required. All proceeds will benefit DHS educational programs and collections. Tickets can be purchased at www.danvillehistory.org, from DHS Board members and at the door. An announcement will be made concerning a new museum space opening in Danville’s River District. (submitted by Sonja Ingram)

Saturday, March 25 Kickin’ Chicken WingDing

The River District Association presents this fundraiser at the Community Market, 629 Craghead Street from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Entertainment provided by The Pizazz Band.

Must be 21 or older to attend.

There will be a Chicken Clucking Contest and prize drawings.

Tickets available at Eventbrite.com.

Admission is $5 and meal price varies depending on food selected.

For more information call 434.791.0210. (submitted by Erin Gusler)

Tuesday, March 28 Step by Step

This free peer-to-peer group teaches ways to reduce the risk for cancer and live a healthy lifestyle. Meet at the Danville Mall in front of Karen’s Hallmark Shop between 9:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. for a walk and then at 10:15 a.m. at Nature’s Essentials on Mt. Cross Road, for a healthy snack. Gingy Blakley, will discuss and prepare a delicious healthy salad focusing on foods that have an anti-inflammatory effect: pineapple, cherries, nuts, turmeric and ginger. This is for men and women and appropriate for all fitness levels. For more information, call 434.421.3060 or email dwhittle@vcu.edu. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

March 31, April 1, 2, 7-9 Legally Blonde The Musical JR

Harvard’s beloved blonde takes the stage by glittery pink storm in this fun and upbeat adaptation of the hit film and award-winning Broadway musical.

Based on the award-winning Broadway musical and the smash hit motion picture, Legally Blonde The Musical JR. is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment and expanding horizons. The show’s instantly recognizable songs are filled with humor, wit and sass – leaving cast members and audiences alike seeing pink! Performances are at the Historic North Theatre, 629 North Main Street, at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. matinee on Sundays. For more information, call 434.793.SHOW (7469) or visit www.TheNorthTheatre.com. (submitted by Miriam Grubb) Continued to Page 19

Evince Magazine Page  17

Page 18 March 2017

March Calendar Abbreviation Key

• AU=Averett University, 434.791.5600 www.averett.edu • CRC=Cancer Resource Center 434.421.3060 • DCA = Danville Concert Association. www.danvilleconcert.org • DMFAH=Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main St. 434.793.5644 www.danvillemuseum.org • DSC=Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead St. 434.791.5160 www.dsc.smv.org • HNT=Historic North Theatre, 629 North Main St. Danville www.TheNorthTheatre.com 434.793.7469 • PA=Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Ave, Martinsville 276.632.3221 www.PiedmontArts.org • The Prizery=700 Bruce St. South Boston 434.572.8339. www.prizery.com • TWC= The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main St. www.TheWedClubDanvilleVA.org

Ongoing

Eat Well, Play Well – DSC brings nutrition and fitness education together to encourage all-around healthy living for visitors of all ages.

Learn the science of making healthy food choices while exploring fun and interesting ways to stay active and healthy.

Guided Walking Tours – Millionaires Row, Holbrook Street and Tobacco Warehouse District. Danville Historical Society. www.danvillehistory.org.

434.770.1974.

Reid Street Gallery Events – Ongoing classes and exhibits.

Call 434.203.8062 or visit reidstreetgallery.com.

The 1963 Danville Civil Rights Movement – The Protests, the People, the Stories. The Danvillian Gallery. 434.466.7981.

DMFAH self-guided audio-visual tours. 434.793.5644.

Public Library Events. See page 25.

Tai Chi with Wyona – A slow moving exercise to enhance breathing, calm the mind, relieve stress $6.

Ballou Recreation Center Mondays 11:15am-12:15pm & 5:45pm- 6:45 p.m. Wednesdays 3:30pm-4:30pm 434.799.5216.

Tai Chi with Paul. Ballou Nature Center Wednesdays 3:30pm-4:30pm Thursdays 11:15am-12:45pm.

Let’s Dance – Learn new dances, make new friends. Donna Robbins teaches a variety of dances in a fun atmosphere. A partner is not necessary. Adults 18+. Tues 7-8.30pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Art with Judie – Learn how to paint with acrylic, oil, or water color. M/ TU – Times vary. Ballou Annex.

434.799.5216.

Kuumba African Dance – a great workout with live drumming and energetic dancing. Kids M/W 5.30pm; Adults M 6-7.30pm. 434.799.5150.

Prime Time Fitness – Lowimpact aerobics workout with a mix of various dance steps. Tu/Th 9.30-11am. Coates Rec. Center.

434.799.5150.

Zumba Classes – Hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves create a one-of-a-kind interval training fitness program with fun routines that tone and sculpt the body while burning fat.

434.797.8848.

Art with Flo – Wet-on-wet technique of oil painting. Ages 18+. W 9.3011.30am. Glenwood Community Center; 6-8pm, Ballou Annex.

434.799.5216.

African Rhythms by Nguzo Saba – West African dance to live drumming.

W 6-7pm. Pepsi Building.

434.797.8848.

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

Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Friday Night Fun and Dance – Live music provided by the City Limits Band on the first, third, and fifth Friday. The Country Pride Band plays on the second and fourth Friday.

Ages 50+. F 7.30-10.30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

March 1 (thru March 12)

Russian Revolutionary War Posters 1917-1929. DMFAH.

March 1 (thru March 15)

DeepEnders Art Exhibit. AU Library, West Main St.

March 1

Telly Tucker – Tickling Ivory in All Genre: TWC 3:45 p.m.

March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

Throw Paint at Cancer. Registration required DMFAH free. 4-6pm

March 3, 4 & 5

The Savannah Sipping Society.

DMFAH 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday, 2:30pm on Sunday. $15 general admission/ $12 for DMFAH members. Cash bar and concessions. www.danvillelittletheatre.org

March 4

How I Found My Slave Ancestors.

10:30 am Acquanet Danielle Pritchett will speak. Co-sponsored by the DMFAH and the Anne Eliza Johns Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Regular admission fees apply, free for members of either organization.

Danville Symphony Orchestra Winter Classical Concert – 25th Season Celebration with Peter Perrot conducting and featuring a solo by flutist Janet Phillips GWHS, 701 Broad St. free 8pm Doors open at 7:30 p.m. www.danvillesymphony.net 434.797.2666.

March 6 (thru May 3)

Pottery Class. DMFAH 6-9pm Preregistration & payment required $95 for DMFAH members $105 for others.

434.792.5355

March 6

Danville By Choice – Quizzo.

2 Witches Winery and Brewery, 209 Trade Street, 5:30pm-8pm 4 rounds of invigorating trivia. Teams may have up to 4 people. No cover charge or pre-registration required.

Facebook.com

March 7

VA/NC Piedmont Genealogical Society monthly meeting: Danville Public Library, 511 Patton St, 5:307pm 434-799-5195 x 8, option 2.

March 10

Russian Revolution – Lecture series DMFAH. Free for members; regular admission fee for non-members.

March 11

Damsel in Distress Safety & Self Defense Demonstration.

Raywood Landscape Center, 165 James Rd. free 2pm 434.203.2479 mydamsepro.net/danriver

March 12

Daylight Saving Time Begins – Clocks spring forward an hour at 2am.

March 14 & 16

Pickleball Clinic. Glenwood Community Center 6-8pm Learn to play pickleball $10 .434.799.5216

March 14

History United - Networking Meeting: Danville Historical Society headquarters, 767 Main Street, 5-6pm Check out DHS’s extensive collection and the local digitization resources available in the region.

March 15

Tobacco Barns and Rosenwald Schools – Recent Preservation Virginia Projects in Southside. Sonja Ingram of Preservation Virginia will speak. TWC 3:45pm

March 16

Speaker Melody Warnick.

See page 15 and 26.

Band of Oz. HNT. 7:30pm $20/15 Cash bar sponsored by the Danville Shag Club.

Science after Dark – DSC View Perfect Little Planet in the Digital Dome Theater, followed by an educator-led planetarium program.

Travel to distant planets and icy moons using the Science on a Sphere while engaging in hands-on Explore Science: Earth & Space activities provided by the National Informal STEM Education (NISE) Network.

March 2017 S M T

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

W T F S 1 2 3 4 8 9 10 11 15 16 17 18 22 23 24 25 29 30 31

Discover the effects of gravity on celestial objects and more. At nightfall, peer through telescopes to observe night sky firsthand--weather permitting. Discounted general admission $5; free for DSC members and college students with ID. 5:30-9pm.

March 17, 18, 19, 24, 25

Honk, Jr: – Musical story of Hans Christian Anderson’s The Ugly Duckling. The Prizery, 7:30pm on March 17 & 24; 11am on March 18 & 25; 3pm on March 19

March 17

Into the West – A 1997 movie about a traveler and his two grandsons.

Rated PG for mild language and violence with an all-Irish cast. DMFAH cash bar & concessions. Free for DMFAH members. Regular admission fee for others.

March 18

Shamrock 5K – Benefits the Free Clinic of Danville. 9am JTI Fountain at Main Street Plaza. Pets are welcome. All two legged and four legged participants dress lucky — there’s a Shamrock Costume Contest!

434.799.1223 Piedmont Kite Festival – Build a kite or bring your own. Live music.

Games. Crafts. 10am-3pm. Jack Dalton Park, Martinsville.

Danville Historical Society Speakeasy -themed fundraiser: Pepsi Building, 661 Craghead St., $25 7pm- midnight. www.danvillehistory. org 434.770.1209 American Chamber Player. Danville Concert Association, Frith Fine Arts Center at Averett University. 7:30pm, 434.792.9242. See page 10.

March 20 (thru April 20)

Averett Student Art Show – Jut’s Café in the AU Student Center and Blount Library on West Main Street

March 20

First Day of Spring!

March 22

Appalachian/French Fusion Cuisine – Executive Chef Cooper Brunk from Chateau Morrisette Winery & Restaurant will prepare and discuss unique wine parings that enhance the flavor of his entrees. TWC 3:45pm

March 24

Canvas & Cabernet – A social painting class. Pre-registration & payment required. 6:30- 9pm DMFAH cash bar & concessions.

March 25

Martinsville Half Marathon, 5K & Relay – All race participants receive great race swag. Awards are given

For more events see Calendar Clips on page 16.

The deadline for submitting information for the April calendar is Friday, March 24, at 5:00 p.m.

Please send just the basic information following the format on these pages to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

Evince Magazine Page 19 for overall winners and in 5-year age group categories. 8-11am. www.MilesinMartinsville.com.

Kickin’ Chicken WingDing.

See page 6 and 16.

March 26

Food, Farm and Community – Art works by Sally Sutton; a free, familyfriendly event. Opening reception 2:30-4;30pm. Tours of the DMFAH will be offered at a discounted rate.

March 28

Panel discussion on colon cancer & screenings. South Boston Public Library, 509 Broad St. 6:30 p.m.

434.575.4228.

Calendar Clips

Upcoming

March 31

IdeaFest 2017Live Pitch Competition – Twenty entrepreneurs will take the stage to pitch an original business idea to a panel of business experts and an audience of other entrepreneurs, small business owners, potential investors, students, and business and community leaders.

1-5pm. Great Hall, Institute for Advanced Learning & Research, 150 Slayton Ave.

March 31, April 1 & 2, 7-9

Legally Blonde The Musical JR. – Fun and upbeat adaptation of the hit film and award-winning Broadway musical. See page 11 and 16.

Continued from Page 16

Sunday, April 2 Opening Reception for All Things Bright & Beautiful Art Exhibit

Parsons-Bruce Art Association is featuring the work of Halifax County resident, Susan Wilkinson, in the Robert F. Cage Gallery at the Prizery, 700 Bruce Street, South Boston. The free reception from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. is open to the public. Susan studied at North Georgia College and earned a BFA at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian College. After graduation, she was a freelance artist. In 2015 she designed and contributed an ornament for the Christmas tree in Virginia’s Executive Mansion on behalf of Halifax County. This exhibit continues until May 10. (submitted by Cathy Cole)

Tuesday, April 4 Book & Author Luncheon

Dr. Eben Alexander, author of New York Times bestseller, Proof of Heaven - A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, will speak at this Wednesday Club event starting at noon at the Danville Golf Club, 2725 West Main Street. Alexander will talk about his transcendental near-death experience, reconciling it with contemporary physics and cosmology and sharing thought-provoking information. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased from Wednesday Club members and from Foxglove Clothing of Danville, 1011 West Main Street. For more information, visit www.TheWedClubDanvilleVA.org. (submitted by The Wednesday Club Book and Author Committee)

Saturday, April 8 SOVA’s Got Talent

Piedmont Arts (PA) and Communities Helping Improve Local Lives (CHILL) are teaming up to present a local version of of the popular television show America’s Got Talent. Ten acts will compete.

Fans vote for their favorite acts before and during the competition. Each vote costs $1. Judges will score each performance and the competitor’s total score will be 50% judges’ scores and 50% votes. Visit www.SovasGotTalent.com to vote and purchase tickets: $10 for general admission and $25 for reserved seats at Martinsville High School, 351 Commonwealth Boulevard. Show starts at 6:00 p.m. Profits benefit programming at PA and CHILL. (submitted by Bernadette Moore)

Page 20 March 2017

Book Clubbing

Your therapy shouldn’t take the day off.

A Review by Diane Adkins

Lighten Up: Love What You Have, Have What You Need, Be Happier with Less

by Peter Walsh

Call us for a tour and to discuss a plan of care to fit your individual needs.

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Piney Forest Health & Rehabilitation Center 450 Piney Forest Road • Danville, VA 24540 • 434-799-1565 PineyForestRehab.com

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10/11/2016 10:33:44 AM

It’s March. How are those New Year’s resolutions holding up? Need a nudge to get back on track?

This book might fit the bill. Walsh is an organizational expert with at least six other books on similar topics. In Lighten Up, written fairly soon after the financial crisis in the years around 2008, he takes on clutter and its impact on our financial and emotional health. It’s not all about how to make our closets look neat; it’s more about how clutter keeps us from living a life of meaning and purpose.

Walsh has adopted the maxim: Never let a crisis go to waste.

When our country was in the midst of a recession, it was especially important for people to find ways to economize, but it was also beneficial in other areas of life---especially in reducing the amount of things we bring into our homes. Accumulation of excess is part of the problem and another part is the emotional attachment we have to our possessions. The things we own start to fill unmet emotional needs. We begin to think we are what we have. In a sense, then, what Walsh is addressing here is psychological clutter, not just the closet that is overflowing or that pile of sports equipment in the corner that is hardly sparking joy. He believes that if we straighten out the emotional attachment to our possessions, we can live more thriftily, use our money more wisely, and have a happier life.

Walsh’s book gives the reader tools—case studies, quizzes, and testimonials from his fans--to evaluate what we have, what we deem important, and what makes us happy. For most people, experiences, loved ones, health, and their passions are what add to their happiness. Therefore, it’s important to make room for what really matters. Love and happy memories fill hearts rather than basements.

Self-help books like this one are only useful if you take their advice.

In the same way that watching an exercise video doesn’t do much good if you are sitting in a chair eating ice cream while you watch it, reading Walsh’s book will merely provide a poorly defined sense of energy for a little while unless you take it to heart. Do what he suggests, though, and you may find time and space for what is most important.

Diane S. Adkins is a retired Director of Pittsylvania County Public Libraries.

Evince Magazine Page  21

The poses and breathing practiced in yoga were created to prepare the body and mind to sit for extended periods of time in meditation. Photo by Clark Davis.

Meditation Moment The Voice of Efficiency

by Casey Molloy, RYT

T

o be efficient is one of the most sought after abilities of our time. We are encouraged in nearly every aspect of our lives to accomplish as many tasks as possible and do so in a timely fashion. This growing ability to be efficient feeds our need for constant increased productivity. When we are able to be productive, we often are rewarded by the notion that we are truly living by growing our list of accomplishments. Although there is certainly some merit to those opinions, there are often times when we get caught in the whirlwind of our talented multi-tasking lives and we forget to actually live. There will be instances when we seem to blink and the day, week, or month has passed. The older we become, the faster it happens.

In honoring meditation, I invite you to consider the internal elements of efficiency instead.

Think about what sustains us and makes our existence possible: our bodies and our breath. The human body is an amazing structure perfectly composed to perform complex physiology and to maintain homeostasis.

Naturally, we expect a lot from our body and it is far more efficient than we may even fathom. The ways in which we can improve our physical efficiency are truly endless. What we eat directly influences our body chemistry and

may promote well-being or hinder it depending on food choices. If you are indulging in a plethora of processed and artificially-laden meals, your body will be forced to work harder to provide you with the energy necessary to function.

By consuming foods such as fruits and vegetables that contain important molecules, vitamins, and minerals, your system will benefit and be able to utilize more of the meal, producing and storing energy in a quicker and less taxing fashion.

Now, contemplate your methods of movement. By heightening body awareness, we can move through space in new ways that increase strength, balance, and coordination. If you are moving through your days gritting your teeth, stomping around, or scowling, your body will not be able to perform at its optimal potential. When we connect to the body by listening to its needs and feeling its sensations, we can cultivate compassion for the endless abilities it offers us.

Today, take note of your gait as you walk, check out your posture while you drive, or notice how you breathe while you watch television. When we become aware of our bodies, we are able to increase the efficiency of our anatomy and physiology, only then will we have the ability to be more efficient externally.

Page 22 March 2017

I

’ve spent a good part of my life reading books about efficiency.

In my dreams, the more efficient we are, the more projects we can complete. Reality check: I’m just delusional about how the work on a project will flow once I start. As queen of list-makers, my first step on a new project is to make a list. I run through it in my head. Suppose I want to build a chicken coop. I might use the 5W/H technique: Who do I need to help build this chicken coop? Me? Maybe.

Husband Steve? Definitely.

(Reading this, many of our friends shake their heads and say with a breathy sigh, “Poor Steve…,” because they already see where this is going.)

What do we want to build? I think, silly question--a chicken coop. Having said that already, it’s inefficient to repeat it. Steve is probably thinking, “Although I might wear a tie imprinted with chickens, I don’t want real ones.”

Where do we want to build it? I think the best place would be in our fenced-in back yard. Steve, on the other hand, thinks the

We’re

on Danville!

Janet Donna Holley • Gibson Owner Owner

HOLLEY & GIBSON REALTY COMPANY

339 Piney Forest Rd., Danville, VA 24540

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

www.eraholleyandgibson.com WE’RE SELLING HOUSESSM

Reflecting Forward Chasing Efficiency: To Dream the Impossible Dream

by Linda Lemery

best place would be several blocks away at a total stranger’s house or better yet, in another state.

When should we build it? I think, immediately, of course, while Steve spits out the word, “Never!” as if it’s an epithet.

Why should we build it? I think, a chicken coop is built to house chickens. Steve thinks, building a chicken coop is a work trap for adults and a road trip I really don’t want to be on.

How? It’s an open-ended question. I think, it’s a kit. We just read the directions and build it. Steve thinks how did I ever get into this? Why did I ever get married?

Now that I’ve got it all mapped out in my head, I can’t find a working pen to write my list. This is inefficient because it delays completing the project. The thing about pens and efficiency is that we can’t work on any project without the supplies we need. So what happened to all the pens? Did an inanimate Rapture occur when I wasn’t looking? I had a jar of pens by every phone, at the computer, in the kitchen, in the bathroom – anywhere a bolt of inspiration might strike me – and now every container was filled with rulers, letter openers, pencils with broken leads, hair chopsticks, and small dead flashlights, presumably exhausted by a protracted, desperate, futile search for writing implements that write.

We had pens vanishing at work, too. It must have been an epidemic.

I’d put my name on pencils and pens and not only was that laborintensive, they would still vanish. I was at my wits’ end. Finally, some very smart colleagues attached a silk flower to each pen so that the pens were stalks topped with colorful floral poufs! Put a whole bunch of them together and it’s a garden in a jar and the pens don’t walk off. I have a pen when I need one and people return them, because what guy is going to walk out the door with a bright pink flower in his hand and what girl wants to be seen thinning the bouquet? I’m going to replicate that idea at home as soon as I rest up from chasing down every dead pen in the house.

After I found a pen that actually wrote, I made my lists. Steve and I gathered everything and then went outside to start building the chicken coop, only to read the fateful words on the box: “Easy to assemble in less than 60 minutes,” followed by a haunting afterthought in microscopic print: “Assembly time is an average and is not guaranteed.” We just looked at each other, and we knew exactly what the other one was thinking: If we manage to put the thing together in less than 2 days … THAT would be efficiency.

Usually with flower pen in hand, Linda Lemery llemery@averett.edu serves as Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library. She welcomes reader comments.

Evince Magazine Page  23

Page 24 March 2017 Does the use of a metal screw cap on a bottle of wine affect your assessment of the wine’s quality? For many, it does. The cork vs. metal cap debate among wine drinkers is not as simple as you might think. Decades ago metal screw caps started being used on many, if not most, bottles of inexpensive table wine sold in high volume and not known for quality. The stigma of the metal screw cap being associated with poor quality wine is fading away slowly. Why is the metal cap being used by higher quality wine makers today? Is it better than natural cork?

Have you ever noticed that some individuals, usually wine makers, will sniff a natural cork immediately after pulling it from the bottle? They are usually trying to detect the presence of “cork taint” or TCA (trichloroanisole), a chemical substance that found its way into the wine bottle somewhere in production, usually from real cork. It has a dank odor like a wet newspaper, moldy basement or smelly dog.

Wine Folly, a wine blog written

by Madeline Puckette, has a concise table outlining some of

• long-term aging proven

The Wine Spot

Cork: Cons • expensive (2-3x) • 1-3% affected by TCA cork taint • limited natural resource • variable quality • natural corks breathe at variable rates Cork Alternative Pros: (ex. screw cap) • more affordable option • no TCA cork taint • long-term aging studies have shown positive results • screw caps are easy to open Cork Alternative Cons: (ex. screw cap) • Some cork alternatives don’t breathe.

• mostly made from nonrenewable resources • recyclable but not biodegradable • variable manufacturing quality • associated with cheap wine

Cork or Screw Cap? That Is the Question

by Dave Slayton

a member of the Master Court of Sommeliers

the pros and cons of natural cork versus alternatives like metal screw caps.

Cork: Pros • a natural, renewable resource • historically preferred

The next time you order a bottle of wine in a restaurant that has a metal screw cap and the waiter doesn’t perform the uncorking ritual with the rest of the wine presentation, will you be upset?

Not me. As long as the wine is good, let it flow. Cheers!

Evince Magazine Page 25

Pittsylvania County Submitted by Lisa Tuite

Brosville/Cascade • Needlework Tuesdays: Work on your own projects. Learn to crochet baby booties on March 21 • Wednesdays: Dancercise 9am; Wednesday for Wees: 10am.

Stories, songs, rhymes and crafts for children from birth to age 5 and their parents or caregivers.

• Fridays: Walk Fit Fridays 9am.

Walk fit with our DVDs • March 2: Read Across America and Dr. Seuss Day 6pm. A Seussical story time and minimovie, or take your picture with the Cat in the Hat! • March 6: Mario Monday 4:30pm. Kart racing!

• March 9: Jewelry Workshop: 10am or 6pm. Create a piece of jewelry. All supplies provided.

• March 16: Mesh Wreath Workshop 10am or 6pm. Make a spring wreath. $10/person for materials.

• March 23: Try It Thursday 10am or 6pm. Learn to hand quilt.

• March 30: Weaving 10am or 6pm. Make your own basket.

Chatham • Mondays: Mother Goose on the Loose 11am. Stories, music, and fun. Ages birth to 3 • Tuesdays: Computer 1 on 1 Help 11am • Wednesdays: It’s Story Time With Ms. Angie and Friends 10am Ages 3-5 year and their caregivers.; Brown Bag Book Reviews: noon-1pm Adults; Computer 1 on 1 Help 6-7pm • March 2: Dr. Seuss’s Birthday Party! 2-3pm. All children invited!

• March 3: Music & Movement 10-10:30am Ages 0-5.

• March 3 & 17: Crochet 3-4:30pm. Work on your own projects or learn to crochet.

• March 6: Tech Open House 3-5pm. Learn about the library’s digital offerings.

What’s Happening in the Public Libraries • March 9: Wii Game Play 4-6pm.

All ages welcome; 2nd Thursday Discussion Group 4-5:45pm. Adult discussion on big topics.

• March 16: Altered Book Art 4-6pm. All ages welcome and all materials provided.

• March 22: Health Panel Discussion: 2pm. Local health experts take your questions about colorectal health and cancer screenings. Presented by the Regional Cancer Task Force.

• March 25: Tolkien Reading Day Celebrate the author with riddles, books, and activities.

• March 28: Birdhouse Gourd Craft 4-6pm. Make a gourd birdhouse. All materials provided, all ages welcome.

Gretna • Mondays: Group Fitness 10am • Wednesdays: Wednesdays for Wees 10am stories, songs, rhymes and crafts Ages bith-5 and their parents or caregivers • Thursdays: Group Fitness using DVDs from the library Adults 10am • March 2: Winter Reading Finale & Ice Cream Social 4pm • March 7: Book Club 10:30 am.; DIY Craft 5pm. Make paper roses. $2/person • March 10: Bingo for Books 2pm • March 14: Homeschool Connection 2pm. Continue a virtual journey around the world.; 2nd Tuesday Recipe Club 5:30pm. “Cooking with Cream Cheese.” Bring your selected dish and recipe to share with others.

• March 21: DIY Craft 5pm. Make a Book Page Snail. Free.

• March 28: Homeschool Connection 2pm. Continue traveling around the world.

South Boston Public Library Submitted by Jay Stephens

Tuesdays: Itsy Bitsy PALS: 12:30-1:30 Birth to age 2; PALS: 2:30-4:30 Ages 2-7; Tweens: 4:30-5:30 Ages 8-12 • Fridays: Throw Paint at Cancer: 2-4pm Call 434.476.2714 to register.

• March 2: Computer Class: Using the Library’s Website and Online Catalog 6pm Call to register.

• March 14: Adult Crafts: DIY Washer Coaster 1pm • March 28: Colon Health and Screenings: A Panel Discussion 6:30pm For more information, visit South Boston Public Library, 509 Broad Street, or www.halifaxlibrary.org, or call 434.575.4228.

Halifax County Public Library Submitted by Jay Stephens

• Wednesdays: Itsy Bitsy PALS: 12:30-1:30 Birth to age 2; PALS: 2:30-4:30 Ages 2-7; Tweens: 4:30-5:30 Ages 8-12; Second and Fourth Thursdays: Art @ the Library 4 pm-5 pm Ages 5 -17 • Third Thursday: Art for Adults 10am-noon Ages 18+ • Third Tuesday: Tea and Book Discussion Group: 2:30-3:30pm Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

• March 6: Computer Class: Using the Library’s Website and Online Catalog 3pm. Call to register • March 15: Adult Crafts: No-Sew Fleece Scarf 1 pm For more information, visit Halifax Public Library, 177 South Main St. in Halifax or www.halifaxlibrary.org or call 434.476.3357.

• Bingo for Books 5pm. Family fun.

Mt. Hermon • Wednesdays: Mother Goose on the Loose 10am. Stories, music, fun Ages birth to 3.

• Fridays: Preschool Pals ages 3-5 10am • March 2: Dr. Seuss’s Birthday 4pm. Winter Reading Finale.

• March 6 & 20: Knitting 6:308pm. Work on your projects.

• March 14: Pi Day Create a brain cap! Patterns available for paper caps or bring your knitting or crochet supplies to make your own. All ages.

• March 18: Family Movie 10:30am.

• March 23: Hooks & Books

6-7:30pm. Crochet an amigurumi character. Beginners should know how to chain, slip stitch, and double crochet.

• March 24-31: Book Sale Support the Friends of the Mt. Hermon Library and raise funds for our new building!

History Research Center & Library • March 25: Genealogy Workshop 10am-1:30pm. Expert advice on conducting genealogical research.

Registration required.

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. For more information, contact Gretna Library, 207 A Coffey Street, 434.656.2579; Mt. Hermon Library, 2725 Franklin Turnpike, 434.835.0326; History Research Center and Library, 340 Whitehead Street, Chatham; 434.432.8931; PCP Main Library, 24 Military Drive, Chatham, 434.432.3271; Brosville Library, 11948 Martinsville Highway 434.685.1285 or www.pcplib.org.

Danville Public Library

Submitted by Rachel Shaw There are three ways to win a Kindle Fire in March. Sign up for a library card, join the Friends of the Library, or answer a trivia question at the front desk to be entered in the drawing. Already have a Kindle or eDevice? Stop by the library for free technology assistance. Download Mango, Hoopla, Overdrive, or Zinio and access library resources anywhere.

Saturdays Mondays • Saturday Dadurday: Second • Free tax help from AARP: Saturday 10-11am Ages 0-5 10am-2pm 434.799.2618 • Move It! Move It! Music and • March 6: Anime Club: Noragami Movement Program: 11-12pm (TV-14), 3:30-5:30pm Ages 13-18 Ages 2-5.

• March 9: Download the Library: • Computer Basics: 11am-12pm eBooks, Audiobooks and More • Maker Mondays: 5-6pm DIY 4:30-5:30pm crafts, technology, Legos, and • Teen Movie Night: Maximum Ride other projects (PG-13) 4-6pm Tuesdays • March 13: African American Voices • Free Tax Help from AARP: 10amAuthor Talk: Angela Hood-Marshall 2pm 434.799.2618 4-5pm • Genealogy 101: Getting Started • March 16: Spring Book Talk 11am-2pm Series: Pastor Bart Fletcher and • Book Club @ Westover: Second Hillbilly Elegy 6-7pm March 18: Tuesdays 11am-1pm Family Movie Matinee: Storks (PG), • Crafter’s Corner: 4-6pm 10:30am-12:30pm Wednesdays • April 4: Spring Book Talk Series: • Mother Goose on the Loose Barry Koplen, author of The Hard Storytime: 10-10:45am Ages 0-2 Edges of Fragility and Satin Doll • Children’s Programs @ 12-1pm Bring your lunch.

Westover: Third Wednesday • April 6: Lawyer Talks: Divorce 4-5pm and Child Custody 6:30-7:30pm A Thursdays free talk presented by local lawyer • Intermediate Genealogy David Pugh.

Classes: 11am-2pm • Mad Science: Third Thursday All programs are free but require 4-5pm Ages 6-12 registration at ww.playdanvilleva.com.

• Raspberry Pi & Scratch For more information visit DPL, 511 Workshop: 6-7pm Learn beginner Patton Street, www.readdanvilleva. level coding. org or call 434.799.5195. For the Fridays Westover Branch, visit 94 Clifton • Preschool Storytime: Street or 434.799.5152.

11-11:45am Ages 3-5

Caswell County, North Carolina

Submitted by Erica Lowdermilk

• Mondays: 3:15-4:30pm Tutoring for K-12 students. Space is limited.

Registration is required.

• Tuesdays: 3:30-4:15pm Book Baggers Ages 5-12 • Wednesdays: 10-11am Storytime.

Ages 0-5 • Thursdays: 3:30-4:15pm Teen Thursdays - games, crafts Ages 12-18 Snacks served.

Adults: • Job Seeking Skills Lab: March 1-June 9. Mondays 2-3pm and Fridays 10-11am and 3-4pm • Book Club March 13 at 6pm For more information, visit 161 Main Street East, Yanceyville, NC or www. caswellcounty.gov/library or call 336.694.6241.

Page 26 March 2017

Why I Don’t Buy Everything on Amazon

by Melody Warnick

T

he list of things I’ve

purchased from Amazon.com

over the years is a little shocking: hair conditioner, Mexican vanilla, maple syrup, adhesive stars, Dansko sandals, doll clothes, microfiber cleaning cloths, an apple peeler, a bathroom scale, and two headboards, to name about a month’s worth.

And I bought all this stuff without ever vacating my couch, which for a busy working mom seems like one of the miracles of modern life.

The More You Own, The More You Dust

by Carollyn Peerman Clutter, clutter, clutter. This is all too much. I never can find what I want or need because there is just too much stuff filling every nook and cranny. I can’t even sit down because there is stuff piled up on my chair. What to do?

There must be a better way.

Let’s face it. The American people love to shop. Shopping is a form of recreation and a social event.

But after a while things piling up in an already filled-to-thegills closet becomes oppressive.

Enough is enough. It is time to free up space on a countertop and give yourselves a little wiggle room. Start the countdown to clutter- free living. Decide now what you want to either sell or donate. Keep only the things that you use on a daily basis.

Simplify.

When you shed your stuff, you change your life. Often the stagnant things in your closet represent items of a by-gone purpose. They are who you once were, not who you are now. Drive yourself forward by separating the treasures and heaving the trash. Embrace the brand new you that results from this purging revolution.

Did you know that everything you possess carries two price tags? First, there is the original amount you paid for the item, and second, there is the continuing toll you pay for maintaining, storing, and general upkeep. The toll charge may exhibit itself in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, financial distress, and even impaired function. Stuff and more stuff dilutes the quality of your life. Do you use all this stuff or is it just a burden to you?

Enjoyable items bring beauty and joy to your life. They are not clutter. Items that you are not certain you will use on a regular basis or for a special occasion are clutter. Do you really need it? If the item disappeared from your life, what would the impact be?

Does the item work properly or is it just something that you plan to fix or clothing that you hope will fit someday? “De-cluttering will calm your spirit, clear your mind and increase your ability to enjoy your current situation, your relationships, and your life!” writes Mary Hunt, founder of DebtProof-Living.com and author of 17 books. Remember, the more you own, the more you dust. Is that how you want to spend your precious time?

So it took a little convincing for me to recognize that my buying habits are killing my city.

Yours probably are too. All over America, gutted Main Streets stand as memorials to a slower time when commerce happened in a physical place instead of just in cyberspace, when residents simultaneously bought socks and chatted with their neighbors. Eventually, though, we didn’t want an intimate, neighborly shopping experience anymore. We wanted more stuff for less money, right now, and so local downtown businesses were slowly edged out by chains and the internet.

If shopping were purely about my money and my time, I’d do all of it online. Of course. But as I researched my book This Is Where You Belong, I learned about something called the “local multiplier effect”: when you shop at a locally owned, independent business, three times as much of your money circulates in your town than if you spend the same amount at a chain. According to one study, $14 of every $25 spent at a locally owned retailer stayed in the city. At a big chain, only $3.50 did.

It’s not just my money. My shopping decisions affect my entire town. And so I decided to make a more concerted effort to buy local in my town of

Blacksburg.

The surprise was that it wasn’t nearly as timeconsuming and inefficient as I feared. At Imaginations, the toy store in Blacksburg where I decided to buy birthday gifts for my kids’ friends, the store clerks helped me pick items, then wrapped them for me, the ultimate two-fer.

Actually, as with many of the behaviors that foster community and build towns, buying local turns almost everything into a two-fer. You shop and see people you haven’t seen in a while. You shop and get in a little walking.

You shop and feel like a hero for preserving what makes your town great. It’s maybe not as quick as one-click ordering from my couch, but it accomplishes what really matters.

• The Danville Regional Foundation will host Melody Warnick, author of This Is Where You Belong – The Art and Science of Loving the Place You Live, on Thursday, March 16, at a free luncheon at the Institute for Advanced Learning & Research. She will also lead a free workshop, Building a Hometown You Will Miss, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

To reserve a spot at one or both events, call the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce, 434.836.6990.

Evince Magazine Page 27

M

y old 1992 Chevy Lumina’s

motor locked up a few

days after receiving a ticket for an expired inspection sticker, therefore, driving to have it inspected and taking the paperwork to court was impossible. For a month, I used Danville’s very reliable Reserve a Ride going to work at the Danville Science Center; my work-friends kindly gave me rides home.

After a few weeks, I purchased a used car from a workfriend and decided to take its inspection receipt, title, and new registration to court in hopes that the judge might be lenient and dismiss the prescribed $90 fine. Fixing myself up for court (one should look his best there), I noticed that my hair had grown back to its colonial length like when I sang at Salisbury’s commemoration of George Washington’s 1791 visit.

I figured that for court it couldn’t hurt, just so it was a Washington look instead of an old hippie look.

Upon arriving in the courtroom and because of my arthritis, I was glad to see that the seat

I felt like a caller to a radio talk show who is just about to make a point when he’s informed by the announcer that he must break away to “sell some soap” or there’s no time left.

Leaving the courthouse, I told the deputies that as a second cousin of George Washington, I was disappointed at not seeing his portrait hanging on the courtroom wall, but had decided not to bring up this matter with the judge. The deputies said my decision was a wise one. Maybe it was a good thing that my day in court had ended quickly.

A Day in Court Ends Too Soon

by Mack Williams,

of justice provided for me was cushy (well, not exactly cushy, but cushiony). After producing my papers, the dismissal of my fine

was over before I knew it. I had planned to take the opportunity to praise Danville’s Reserve a Ride, but didn’t have the chance.

• Reserve a Ride service is available weekdays and Saturdays from any location within Danville to any other location within the city limits and Cane Creek Centre Industrial Park. Call 434.799.5144 or 434.773.8132. Cost is $4.

Two children ages 12 and under can ride free with a paying adult. Trolley buses are used in Reserve A Ride service for large passenger groups of ten or more. For more information, visit www.danville-va.gov.

Paula Deen’s

DOGWOOD C

olleCtion

The Dogwood Collection features bedroom, dining room, living room and occasional pieces. This lovely collection is sold locally, and exclusively, at M & M Furniture and discounted 45% off of retail list prices every day.

“Much More For Your Money!”

&M M FURNITURE

530 Monroe Street Downtown Danville • 434.793.2911 www.mandmfurnitureco.com www.facebook.com/MMFurnitureCo

Page  28 March 2017

Evince Magazine Page 29

Roasting Lemon Chicken Efficiently

by Annelle Williams

Some emergency meals call for a quick, dependable recipe that looks and tastes like a real winner when it hits the table. When I’m in this situation, Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, is my favorite chef. Her recipes are clear and concise and usually don’t have a long list of ingredients. She knows how to obtain the best flavor with good combinations resulting in deep, full flavor. I’ve been following Ina since 2002 when she began her show on the Food Network.

This recipe is an Ina Garten special—her famous roasted chicken. It is by far the quickest, easiest way to roast a chicken, while adding a depth of flavor not found in other recipes and it looks very impressive.

The chicken can be roasted in an hour and it looks like a dish you might find in a French bistro!

Ina Garten’s Skillet Roasted Lemon Chicken (with just a couple of adaptations, including omitting 1 tsp. crushed fennel seeds, because I don’t like them) 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup good olive oil 1 lemon, halved and sliced 1/4 inch thick juice of 1 lemon

1 yellow onion, halved and sliced 1/4 inch thick 2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 (4-pound) chicken, backbone removed and butterflied* 1/2 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot grigio

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

2. Combine the thyme, 1 tablespoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Pour the olive oil into a small glass measuring cup, stir in the herb mixture and set aside.

3. Put the lemon slices in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet and distribute the onion and garlic on top. Place the chicken, skin side down, on top of the onion and brush with about half the oil and herb mixture. Turn the chicken skin side up, pat it dry with paper towels (very important!), and brush it all over with the rest of the oil and herb mixture.

Roast the chicken in the oven for 30 minutes. Pour wine into the pan (not on the chicken!) and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 155 to 160 degrees.

Remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle it with the lemon juice, cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil and allow to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut the chicken into quarters or eighths, sprinkle with salt, and serve hot with the pan juices, cooked lemon, and onion. *Butterflying a chicken: this process is what makes the chicken roast so quickly.

With kitchen shears or a good knife, remove the backbone by cutting through the chicken on both sides of the backbone. Remove and discard. Open the chicken, inside down, and with the thickest part of your palms (like you’re doing CPR) press the breast part of chicken down and flatten. Don’t be gentle. That’s it. Also known as spatchcocking. Takes about 3 minutes.

Questions or comments?

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

Page 30 March 2017

Photo Finish

Lisa Demott, analyst at Infinity Global, takes a break from work to admire Red Digital Gate at the Crossing at the Dan trailhead.

Recent weather was so pleasant, Evince photographer Von Wellington walked the Danville Art Trail (DAT), an 18-month exhibit of outdoor sculptures found in public places. The sculptures are located within a one-mile radius of the JTI Fountain at 111 Main Street. Use this as a guide or visit www.playdanvilleva.com.

Images by Swanson Photography provided the pictures for the Downtown South Boston Fire Hydrant Walking Tour. Have fun looking at the whimsical public art and learn a bit of history on this 1.54 mile, self-guided tour of 17-hydrants. Brochures for a self-guided tour can be picked up at the Halifax County/South Boston Visitor Center, 1180 Bill Tuck Highway; the South Boston Main Street Office, 432 Main Street; and Southern Plenty, 206 Main Street or downloaded at www.downtownsobo.com.

Marquida Cunningham of Her Aura Lash & Makeup Artistry likes An Autumn’s Path at the Main Street Plaza trailhead.

Learn to Fly located at the Charles Harris Financial Center on Memorial Drive reminds viewers of a mother bird with her baby.

Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter stands beside David Lyman, Logistics Coordinator at Infinity Global.

Zachary’s Angel stands in front of the HOME sign on Main Street.

Crimson Ring can be seen on the lawn of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History.

All Danville photos by Von Wellington.

For more info visit www.vonwellington photography.com or call 434.770.3553. See more pictures on Facebook.

Sprite Core can be found on the Riverwalk at the Union Street overlook.

Shooting Stars explode outside the Danville Public Library.

Zig Zag is at the north end of the Riverwalk pedestrian bridge.

Evince Magazine Page 31 Sharing a Story at the JTI Fountain in Main Street Plaza is a local favorite.

Ida Rogers Vaughan led the movement to open the first library in South Boston starting in 1915. It found a permanent home in 1935.

Dr. Henry Grant Wood was the first AfricanAmerican physician in South Boston. His wife, Sallye Wood, was the first principal of the Williams Normal and Industrial School.

Captain Edwin Jeffress, known as the “Father of South Boston,” was its only merchant in the mid1800s. He applied for a post office to be established in 1884.

E. Nash Hardy organized the first fire department in 1884 and remained in charge of it until 1906.

John Hamilton was a master builder in South Boston and helped build the covered bridge over the Dan River in 1854.

Hamilton Boulevard is named in honor of John and his family.

Dollye Kent Ragland was a major collector of African-American history in South Boston and Halifax County.

General Nathanael Greene was the leader of the Southern Army during the American Revolution. He is known as the greatest strategist of the Revolution.

Lowell Strickland worked with The Tuesday Women’s Club to open and manage the first local museum in 1983 that is now known as the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts & History.

William Munford Tuck served three terms in the Virginia House of Delegates (192432), in the Virginia Senate (1932-42), as Lieutenant Governor (194246), as Governor of Virginia (194650), and as a Congressman in the U.S. House of Representatives (1953-69).

Page  32 March 2017