Rave January 2010 Showcase Magazine

RAVE AWARDS 2010 JANUARY 2010

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SHOWCASE – M A G A Z I N E –

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Make tracks to the Virginia Museum of Natural History ...

Saturday, January 23, 2010 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Don’t miss this spectacular family festival millions of years in the making.

Exhibit open January 23 – September 18, 2010

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Visit www.vmnh.net to learn more.

21 Starling Avenue • Martinsville, VA • 276-634-4141

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THANK YOU

JANUARY 2010

FEATURES 13 2010 Rave Award Winner Directory 34 All Aboard

Rail Service Offers Opportunities

40 Throw a Starfish in the Ocean

CONTENTS 8

Cooking with Chef Paul

Beer Glazed Ham with Parsnips and Onion

32 Seth Bradley

My New Years Resolutions (with Caveats)

ALSO INSIDE 6

Editor’s Letter

10 He Said She Said 38 Paws for the Cause 46 Fun & Games 48 Area Events Guide 58 Mystified

Cover Photo: Rooftop view at 301 Craghead Street courtesy of Susan Stilwell.

L/R - Suzanne Miller-Epiphany/Headmaster, CR Yates - Yates Home Service, Debbie Sparks-URW Community Federal Credit Union, Connie NyholmVIRginia International Raceway, Michelle Dalton-Michelle Dalton Photography, Scott Yates-Yates Home Service, Karen Johnson-Karen’s Hallmark, Kyle Buckner-Kyle Buckner Designs, Melissa Sparks-Sounds Unlimited Inc. Cover Photo by Michelle Dalton

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to the ADVERTISERS who make this publication possible. Please be generous in supporting our local businesses.

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Schoolfield Lumber & Plywood, Inc. Ashley Furniture Home Store Virginia Museum of Natural History Danview Restaurant Alcova Mortgage Danville Dental Associates El Vallarta Bankers Insurance The Music Post Danville ENT Hearing Center Gold Star Mortgage Services Carter Craig Attorneys at Law OBGYN Associates of Danville, Inc. Comfort Inn & Suites The Prizery Kyle Buckner Designs McGee Furniture Satterfield Insurance Agency The Market URW Community Federal Credit Union Martinizing Dry Cleaning Newcomb Carpet, Inc. New Life Community Church Davis Motor Sales Buffalo Wild Wings Geoffrey E. Johnson, D.D.S. Gold Star Mortgage Services Old 97 Choppers Mfg. Inc. Captain Copy Michelle Dalton Photography Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Hollywood Pets Medo’s II Pizzeria Sounds Unlimited Danville Paint & Supply Zinc Total Salon Danville Urological Clinic Lavinder Group and Associates Backstreet Bronx Boy Bagels Nature’s Essentials Health & Wellness Center

39 Thunder Road Harley Davidson 39 Virginia Bank & Trust 41 The Fraternal Order of Eagles 41 Dollar Mart 41 VIRginia International Raceway 42 Epiphany Episcopal School 42 Romar MedEquip 42 Robert Woodall Auto Mall 45 Flanigan Auto Repair 45 Health Quest Expert Fitness 45 Westover Christian Academy 47 Majestic Cleaners 47 Four Seasons Pest Control 47 M&M Furniture 49 Piedmont Glass 50 Wise-Hundley Electric Co., Inc. 50 Riverside Hardware Inc. 50 Merle Norman 51 Yates Home Sales 51 Danville Historical Society 53 Sounds Unlimited 53 Summertime Pool and Spa 53 The Institute Conference Cente 53 Karen’s Hallmark Shop 53 Satterfield Insurance Agency 55 Neighbors Helping Neighbors 55 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. 55 R.C. Tate Woodworks 55 J.W. Squire Co., Inc. 56 Sallie S. Abreu 56 InkMart.com 57 Saunders Building Supply 57 Northern Lites 58 Hall’s Pastry Shop, Inc. 58 Checkered Pig 59 Dr. Newell 60 Danville Regional Medical Center

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FROM THE EDITOR Well, 2009 is in our rearview mirror. And 2010 is staring us in the face, welcoming us with open arms. That’s the beauty of a new year. It doesn’t care what happened the previous year. A new year presents us with a shiny, new plate to fill the way we see fit.

G.K. Chesterton said “The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul.” It’s deep, I know, but let’s face it; last year wasn’t the greatest year. Sure it had its moments, but overall negative news seemed to outweigh the positive. I’m sure by the time you read this; you have already made your resolutions and probably have broken a few of them.

That’s ok. There really are no rules to resolutions. So make one now. Instead of focusing on those ten extra pounds you want to lose before the new season of The Biggest Loser kicks in, focus on a new soul. Hold the door for someone, and when someone holds the door for you say “Thank You.” Allow someone on the off-ramp to merge in front of you in a traffic jam, and wave at someone if they let you in front of them. But don’t wave the one-finger salute at them if they do not allow you to merge. Basically, concentrate on good deeds and kind acts. If we all focus on a new soul it will chase the negativity away.

In this first issue of Showcase Magazine of 2010, you will find our annual Rave Award Favorites. The businesses and individuals voted by our community as our community favorites possess the positive qualities that shine brightly even on the dreariest of days. They’ve earned our business through quality products and services and they’ve gained our trust through exceptional and caring customer service. The Rave Awards are our way of thanking the businesses and the individuals that make our community a wonderful place to live. Please allow these Rave Favorites the opportunity to continue to provide you with the highest quality of service by giving them your business. And tell them you voted for them in Showcase Magazine.

I’ll leave you with this; a change in the calendar year creates an opportunity. Let’s take Chesterton’s words to heart and work on a new soul. Let’s make 2010 a year that will make 2009 green with envy and have 2011 champing at the bit to outdo it.

Enjoy the issue.

PAUL SEIPLE Business Manager & Editor

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Past, Present, and Future

Another year is behind us and I for one feel pretty darn lucky.

I only gained about five pounds over last year, I am another year older, and that is good because I find myself above ground and still aggravating you. But we are still engaged and our admiration for each other grows deeper every day (Okay, my admiration grows deeper and yours stays about the same) but I’ll take what I can get.

When I think about the past 45 years, our high school days come to mind. I think about all the times you wouldn’t go out with me, but then again, I never asked you. I was too intimidated by your charm and grace. I had heard of those words back them, but probably couldn’t even spell them. However, here we are in the present, and having the time of our lives making fun of each other as we grow older, grayer, and heavier. How can anyone top that for a happy life?

Maybe we should have our own TV show so everyone could join in the fun. I would have a whole new audience to tell my “good old days” stories to since you already know them.

Now about the future: I CAN HARDLY WAIT FOR THOSE AFTER CHRISTMAS SALES!!! You want something mundane like a new dryer. Why not take my dryer and we could sign a pre-nup in case you decide to break this relationship off.

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk about a shopping trip. It’s not that I need anything. It’s the thrill of the chase, kind of like chasing you all of these years! Since I already have a model car collection, an expansive book collection, and music collection, I was thinking I could start collecting something new. Do you have any suggestions? Maybe we could explore antique stores looking for artifacts from the 1800’s.

Wouldn’t that make an interesting display? Let’s talk about it over dinner tonight.

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I guarantee you that we’ll talk over dinner tonight, but it won’t be about relics from the 1800’s. I already have one big relic. I’m not interested in collecting anything that takes up more room. If I can’t eat it, wear it, or ride it, I don’t want it. Are you crazy??? A pre-nup for a used dryer? Who do you think you are, Tiger Woods? We don’t need a pre-nup for a ten-year-old dryer! Now if you have hidden assets that I should know about that might constitute a pre-nup, I’m all ears.

Right now I am marrying you in spite of all your problems, not because I feel sorry for you, but because you make me laugh sometimes, you feed me well, you take me to events like movie matinees, free concerts, etc. and you are generally a nice guy who doesn’t drink, smoke, or carouse with the opposite sex. We do have a history and we have had a great life so far together. You have never been that great at marriage, but then you have never been married to me. So far I think I have done a pretty good job of training you or at least getting us on the same track.

I don’t think men in general are trainable per se, but we women do the best we can with what we have. I understand that you are not an outdoor person, a yard person, or a working person, so I just accept that as part of the package. If you’re planning a TV show for us, you’re probably going to have to get a surrogate She Said. I just don’t think I have anymore hours to give you for such trivial mess as boosting your ego with some kind of “it’s all about you TV show.”

If you like you can put that in your pre-nup and hope your future includes me, and a NEW dryer.

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g n i t n e s e

Pr the

WINNERS DIRECTORY

YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES •

YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES •

YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES •

YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES • YOUR FAVORITES •

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FAVORITE Places to Go FAVORITE Places to Go FAVORITE Places to Go

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Discount Department Store

FAVORITE Places to Go

OLLIE’S BARGAIN OUTLET Target

Bank VA BANK AND TRUST First Citizen’s Bank

Event Location or Conference Center INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED LEARNING AND RESEARCH Stratford Conference Center

Bed & Breakfast II GEORGE’S INN An Inn for All Seasons

Prizery

Family Entertainment Spot DANVILLE STADIUM CINEMAS Dan Daniel Park World of Sports

Church NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH North Main Baptist Church

Funeral Home NORRIS FUNERAL HOME

Mt. Cana United Methodist Church

Townes Funeral Home Brooks Funeral Home

Dance Studio MEREDITH GRAVELY SCHOOL OF DANCE Danville Academy of Dance

Wilkerson Funeral Home

Grocery Store FOOD LION Midtown Market Walmart

Day Care/Child Care Provider PLAY ‘N PRETEND

Hair Salon

Wee Center

ZINC TOTAL SALON Youtopia Turnin’ Headz Silver Shears

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DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Hotel COMFORT INN & SUITES

EPIPHANY EPISCOPAL SCHOOL Sacred Heart School

Courtyard Marriott

Regional Race Track V.I.R.

Law Office

311 Fast Track

CARTER CRAIG ATTORNEYS AT LAW Law Offices of Greg T. Haymore

Tax Preparation Service HOWARD BOLTON, III, CPA, PC

Local Golf Course

Kania and Associates

TUSCARORA COUNTRY CLUB Goodyear Golf Club

Walk-in Medical Clinic DR. IVAN E. LAZO, MD FAMILY PRACTICE Piedmont Prime Care

Museum/Art Gallery DANVILLE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS AND HISTORY Danville Science Center

Weekend Getaway BLUERIDGE MOUNTAINS WWW.BLUERIDGEPARKWAY.ORG Chateau Morrisette Winery

Oil Change Service Center JIFFY LUBE

Workout Spot

Marathon

DANVILLE ATHLETIC CLUB

Greased Lightning

Perfect Body Fitness Center

Reid’s Nissan

Y.M.C.A.

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FAVORITE Places to Go FAVORITE Places to Go FAVORITE Places to Go

Private School

FAVORITE Things to Eat FAVORITE Things to Eat FAVORITE Things to Eat

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

FAVORITE Things to Eat

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Burger Place WENDY’S Burger King

Bakery

Pete’s Burgers & More

HALL’S PASTRY SHOP, INC. Shorty’s Bakery Windmill Farm Bake Shop

Chinese Restaurant GREAT WALL

Bar & Grill

Long River

BUFFALO WILD WINGS

New Super Buffet

Ham’s Spare Times

Coffee House Barbecue Restaurant

STARBUCKS COFFEE

CHECKERED PIG

Main Street Coffee Emporium

Short Sugar’s

Java Jo’z

Short Sugar’s

Delicatessan

BBQ Spot

BRONX BOYS BAGELS

CHECKERED PIG

The Brown Bean

Dicky’s Short Sugar’s

Breakfast

Fried Chicken IHOP

KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN

Hardee’s

Chick-fil-A

Huddle House PG’s Home Style Chicken

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DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

DANVIEW RESTAURANT

DANVIEW RESTAURANT

Mary’s Diner

Joe & Mimmas Italian Restaurant

Village Cafe

Four Oaks Restaurant

Ice Cream Shoppe

Pizza

BUBBA’S

VILLAGE’S PIZZA

Cold Stone Creamery

Papa Johns

Diary Bell

Dinis Brothers

Mayberry’s

Italian Restaurant

Seafood Restaurant

JOE & MIMMAS ITALIAN RESTAURANT

MAYFLOWER SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Frank’s Pizza

Red Lobster

Dinis Brothers

Libby Hill

Japanese Restaurant

Specialty Restaurant

MIYAKO’S JAPANESE STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE

THE BROWN BEAN

Tokyo Grill

Tuscany Italian Grill

Taste of Japan

Mexican Restaurant

Steak House

EL VALLARTA

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE

Los Tres Magueyes

Lonestar Steakhouse

Mi Cita

Old Country Club Steak House

Monterrey Mexican Restaurant

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FAVORITE Things to Eat FAVORITE Things to Eat FAVORITE Things to Eat

Overall Restaurant

Home Cooking

FAVORITE Home Improvement FAVORITE Home Improvement

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

FAVORITE Home Improvement

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Glass Company PIEDMONT GLASS Clear View Glass Co. Piedmont Glass

Building Materials Business SAUNDER’S BUILDING SUPPLY Lowe’s

Gutter Service GUTTER GUY

Boston Lumber

Holt & Company

Lowe’s

Goodes

Cabinet Business R.C. TATE WOODWORKS

Hardscape Company MARSHALL CONCRETE

Don’s Cabinet Shop

Heath

Carpet Business NEWCOMB CARPET

Heating Business GIBSON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Mirror Image

Superior Heating & Air Elliott Electric Service

Flooring Company J.W. SQUIRE CO., INC.

Home Furnishing Store M&M FURNITURE CO.

Mumford’s

Ashley Furniture Homestore Heritage House

General Contractor RUFUS HOLBROOK

Home Improvement Store

Sam Coleman Ben Hilty

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LOWE’S Danville Paint & Supply

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Marble, Granite, Stone Installer

SECURITY ALLIANCE

MARSHALL CONCRETE

Piedmont Fire & Security

Charles Davis

Hot Tub/Swimming Pool Installer SUMMERTIME POOL & SPA

Modular Home Builder YATES HOME SALES

H20 Zone

VA/Carolina Homes

Interior Designer ROSE SHIELDS, ROSE SHIELDS INTERIORS Delores Kendrick, M&M Furniture

Painting Business DANVILLE PAINT & SUPPLY Done Right - Cooper Crews

Landscaping Business HAYMORE’S LANDSCAPING & GARDEN Raywood Landscape Center

Pest Control DODSON PEST CONTROL

Lazy “C” Landscaping

Schoolfield Pest Control

Lawncare Business

Four Seasons Pest Control

SCARCE LAWN CARE Raywood Landscape Center Lazy “C” Landscaping

Lighting Store

Plant Nursery HAYMORE’S LANDSCAPING & GARDEN Raywood Landscape Center

NORTHERN LITES Lowe’s

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FAVORITE Home Improvement FAVORITE Home Improvement

Home Security Dealer

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

FAVORITE Home Improvement FAVORITE Home Improvement

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

Plumbing Business

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

Audio Video Specialty Store SOUNDS UNLIMITED

RIVERVIEW PLUMBING & HEATING

Mike’s Performance Audio

Drips-N-Drains

Replacement Windows Business

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Auto Glass Center CLEAR VIEW GLASS CO.

PIEDMONT SIDING & WINDOW CO.

Piedmont Glass

Piedmont Glass

Auto Repair Center FLANNIGAN AUTO REPAIR

FAVORITE Things to Buy

Crane Tire & Automotive Center

Antique Store JOHN’S ANTIQUES

Bicycle Shop FAR-OUT BICYCLE SHOP

Lou’s Antique Mall

O.F. Newman & Son

Appliance Store DANVILLE APPLIANCE

Boat Dealer HUGHES MARINE SERVICE

Sears

Art, Framing, Hobby Store HOBBY LOBBY

Bookstore

High’s Custom Frame Gallery

LIFEWAY CHRISTIAN STORE Goodwill

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DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Electronics Store

RIPPE’S

SOUNDS UNLIMITED

N’Vogue

Radio Shack

Merle Norman

Eyewear Store

Brake Shop WOODSON MARATHON

PIEDMONT REGIONAL EYE CENTER Dominion Eye Center

Buxton’s

Farm & Lawn Store

Clothing Store (Men's)

TRACTOR SUPPLY CO.

BELK MEN’S STORE

Southern States

Wood’s Menswear

Camps

Flower Shop

Computer Store COMPUTER BARN

GILES FLOWERLAND

Computer Concepts

H.W. Brown Florist

GCR Company

Domestic New Car Dealer BARKHOUSER FORD

WOOD’S MENSWEAR JUDITH WARREN

Blackwell Dodge

Furniture Store

Dry Cleaners MAJESTIC CLEANERS Coachman’s Cleaners

Formal Wear/Bridal Boutique

ASHLEY FURNITURE HOMESTORE M&M Furniture

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FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy

Women's Clothing (Boutique)

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

Hardware Store

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Jewelry Store

RIVERSIDE TRUE VALUE HARDWARE

BEN DAVID JEWELERS

Danville Paint & Supply

Commonwealth Silver

True Value

Unique Creations

Health & Nutrition Store NATURE’S ESSENTIALS

Mailing/Shipping Store XPRESS PRINTING & SHIPPING

GNC

UPS

Health Care Provider PIEDMONT HEALTH & WELLNESS

Mattress Store M&M FURNITURE

Dr. Ivan E. Lazo, MD. Family Practice

Mattress Warehouse

Import New Car Dealer STEVE PADGETT HONDA

Motorcycle Dealer

Woodall Nissan

ROCKET ROGERS OLD 97 CHOPPERS

Reidville Nissan

Thunder Road Wolf Creek Harley-Davidson

Internet Provider COMCAST

Music Instrument Store THE MUSIC POST

Gamewood

Janitorial Services

Riverland Music

Music Store

NEWMAN’S JANITORIAL SERVICE Dust Busters Wonder Wanda

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WATERLOO MUSIC

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Sports Equipment Store MISSY BELLO & COMPANY

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS

Luxury Nails

All Star Sports

KB Nails

Pet Store

Sporting Goods & Athletics Store

PET SMART

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS

World of Pets

All Star Sports Hibbett Sports

Photography Studio Stationary Store

MICHELLE DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY

KAREN’S HALLMARK

Melton Photography

Invitation Destination

Pool/Spa Chemicals H20 ZONE

Thrift Store GOODWILL

Target

Salvation Army

Print & Copy Store Tire & Wheel Store

CAPTAIN COPY

SMITH-DAVIS TIRE Xpress Printing & Shipping

Shoe Store SHOE CARNIVAL

Crane Tire

Toy Store TOYS R US

Foot Locker Strader’s

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FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy

Nail Salon

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy FAVORITE Things to Buy

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

Used Car Dealer

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

FAVORITE People to See

DAVIS MOTOR SALES Semone’s Automotive Reidsville Nissan

Attorney LUIS ABREU, CARTER CRAIG Greg Haymore, The Law Offices of Greg Haymore

Video Game or Rental Store MOVIE STARZ Movie Gallery

Audiologist DR. JUDITH OSTROWSKI, DANVILLE ENT

Wine Store

Dr. Danny Gnewikow

SOUTHERN GOURMET

Banker KIM THOMPSON, BANK OF AMERICA

Wireless Phone Carrier AT&T

Roger Gillespie, Virginia Bank and Trust Susan McLamb, BB&T Melody, Wachovia

Verizon

Wireless Phone Store

Bartender SCOTT BUCKNER, HAM’S RESTAURANT

AT&T

Rusty Thrift

nTelos

Women's Center OBGYN ASSOCIATES OF DANVILLE

Caterer

Danville Women’s Care

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ALMA SHUMATE Mary’s Diner

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

CORY MCKINLEY, MCKINLEY CHIROPRACTIC

Insurance Agent DAVID SATTERFIELD, SATTERFIELD INSURANCE AGENCY Dot Baynes, Banker’s Insurance

CPA

Insurance Company

VINCE KANIA, KANIA & ASSOCIATES

LAVINDER GROUP & ASSOC.

Howard Bolton.

Howard Bolton, III, CPA, PC

Satterfield Insurance Agency

Dentist Local Band or Entertainment

DR. GEOFFREY JOHNSON, DDS

BACKSTREET

Dr. Christopher Payne, DDS, Danville Dental Associates Dr. Debra G. Clayton, DDS

Bottomz Up Band

Electrician ELLIOTT ELECTRIC SERVICE

Local Chef PAUL FARRAR

Tommy Astin, Wise-Hundley Electric Company

Financial Advisor EDGAR LOVE-DAVENPORT Hershel Stone, Edward Jones

Elvis, Miyako’s Japanese Steak and Seafood Restaurant

Locksmith O.F. NEWMAN & SON James Snead

Hair Stylist SUSAN COX, ZINC TOTAL SALON Sherri Keatts, Zinc Total Salon Brittany Comer, Turnin’ Headz Deana Williams, Silver Shears

Massage Therapist KATLIN HECOX Lorrie McKinely, McKinley Chiropractic Elizabeth Talley

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FAVORITE People to See FAVORITE People to See FAVORITE People to See

Chiropractor

FAVORITE People to See FAVORITE People to See FAVORITE People to See

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

Photographer Mortgage Broker

MICHELLE DALTON, MICHELLE DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY

BABBETTE HOFFMAN PRICE, AMERICAN NATIONAL BANK

Carol Melton, Melton Photography Shannon Turner/Tim Talley

Janis Chenery, Goldstar Mortgage

Mortgage Company

Physican

ALCOVA MORTGAGE

DR. DAVID HUNGARLAND, PIEDMONT HEALTH & WELLNESS

Goldstar Mortgage

Dr. Ivan Lazo, MD. Family Practice

Pastor

Radio Station JIM REED, NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH

WAKG

Freddy Vicks, Third Avenue Congregational Christian Church Randy Holmes, Mt. Cana United Methodist Church

KLOVE

Personal Trainer JOHN WALL, HEALTH QUEST

Real Estate Appraiser TIM MARUAKIS

Matt Charles

Pet Boarding & Facility

Jimmy Bolton

Realtor

HOLLYWOOD PETS

SALLIE ABREU, WILKINS & COMPANY REALTORS

Mt. Herman

Pet Groomer JESSICA, HOLLYWOOD PETS

Janet Holley, ERA Holley & Lewis Realty Co.

Realty Company

Petco

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WILKINS & CO. REALTORS ERA Holley & Lewis Realty Co.

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

DANVILLE OTHER FAVORITE

CONNIE FLETCHER

HARRY ARON, HARRY’S TATTOO SHOP

Lucy Moore and Associates

Jason, Jason’s Tattoo Shop

Full Service Gas Station

T.V. Station

WOODSON’S MARATHON

WSET-13 Daystar

Gift Shop

Veternarian

COUNTRY TREASURES

ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

The Gingerbread House

Mt. Herman Animal Hospital Susan Thompson, Oxford Reidsville Veterinarian Hospital

House Cleaning Service DUST BROTHERS

FAVORITE Write-ins Artist

Office Equipment Sales

KYLE BUCKNER

SOUTHERN OFFICE SUPPLY

Harry Aron

Docusystems

Car Wash LYNSKEY’S CAR WASH Burnette’s Car Cleaning

Pet Wash HYDROGEN MOBILE PET WASH-SANDY ALDRIDGE

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FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins

Counselor

Tattoo Artist

FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins FAVORITE Write-ins

DANVILLE FAVORITE

SOUTH BOSTON FAVORITE

REIDSVILLE FAVORITE

Property Inspection JEFF CLARK

Radio Personality ALEX VARDAVAS

Rent-to-Own Business AARON’S Rent-A-Center

Tow Service NORTHMONT EXXON Nick’s Towing

Vacuum Cleaner Company GRIFFIN VACUUM & SEWING SUPERSTORE

Yoga & Mediation Center DANVILLE YOGA AND MEDITATION CENTER

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By Susan Elzey

Throw a Starfish in the Ocean

It’s a brand new year and another chance to make a difference in the lives of the people around you. Throughout the area, non-profit organizations have come up short in their budgets and stretched what little they have.

V

olunteers, however, are one resource that should never be in short supply because everyone can find the time to do something, whether it’s daily, weekly or even at annual community events.

And before you think that just one person can’t make a difference, remember the story of the starfish, sometimes attributed to author Loren Eiseley: A man walking on a beach came across a young man throwing starfish into the ocean.

“Why are you doing that?” he asked.

Since that time, he has become the board president and a court-appointed humane investigator, seeing the worst animal abuse in the area and testifying about it in court. He spends two hours every afternoon at the shelter after work each day and volunteers during his days off, all with the unflagging support of his wife, Cindy.

“I estimate that I have come into contact with almost 85,000 animals, including all kinds of companion animals, farm animals, wildlife, and exotic animals,” he said. “Some I will never forget.”

“The tide is going out, and the sun is up, so they will die if I don’t,” he said.

He said that anyone can make a difference; it’s just a matter of getting involved.

“But do you realize how many starfish there are on this vast beach?” the man said. “You can never save them all.”

“I always look forward to coming to volunteer because there are always so many animals that need help,” he said.

“Whether it is helping to capture an injured animal or rescuing a small kitten from a storm drain, I always come away with a good feeling that in some small way, I have helped.”

The young man picked one up and threw it in.

“Yes, but it made a difference to that one,” he said.

People all around our community have been quietly throwing as many starfishes as they can back into the ocean.

Along the way, they have helped people and animals and caused mountains to be moved.

Sometimes small, individual efforts also pay off in big ways, such as the ordinance banning the constant chaining of animals

Making a Difference Lynn Shelton, board president and volunteer with the Danville Area Humane Society, quoted the starfish story when asked what his motivation was for volunteering thousands of hours the past 13 years. It all started on his way to work at Goodyear.

“While I was on my way to work one morning, I passed two dogs standing in the rain on the side of Goodyear Boulevard,” Shelton said. “When I got off work later that day, one of the dogs had been hit by a car and the other one was standing beside it. I realized then that I needed to do something to help abandoned animals. So, in September of 1996, I came to the shelter and asked if they needed any volunteers to help walk the dogs.”

Lynn Shelton, a Danville Humane Society volunteer, is shown with a cat he rescued from a rain drain.

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The day of the blood drive was 18 degrees, and Cook only collected 12 units of blood, but it spurred her on and she held another blood drive on Dec. 12 in the parking lot at Red Lobster with the help of manager Scott Lang.

Although the blood mobile collected fewer units of blood this year, Cook collected “lots of coats and lots of food.”

She donated the food to God’s Storehouse and the coats to the Salvation Army.

(Left to right) Riverside Health and Rehab Center volunteers Edith Myers, Dorothy Cassady and Effie Harden, work on some of the Christmas decorations for the nursing home. in the city of Danville that Shelton and everyone at the Humane Society have worked for years to enact.

“I really hope that I have helped the animals,” he said, noting that Humane Society volunteers are vital in helping to raise money, walking and playing with the animals and calling about animals in need.

Opportunities Abound Jennifer Stinson, activities director at Riverside Health and Rehabilitation Center, knows that volunteers can contribute a lot, no matter how little time people have.

“We have a lot of residents without friends and family, and volunteers can make a difference, especially to the bedridden ones,” she said. “Volunteers are helpful for the psycho-social wellbeing of the residents.”

“Opportunities to volunteer abound in nursing homes,” Stinson said.

“The residents really, really love programs and people who come in with music, singing, dancing and talents with arts and crafts,” she said. “The residents can’t come out, so we need people in the community to come in.”

Even a small amount of time per week can help, Stinson said.

“I’ve got slots all through the calendar for people with only an hour or two,” she said.

Showcase Magazine’s Mystified mom, Misty Cook, has found a way to help the community the past couple of years.

“For years, I have always thought that so many organizations did so much for people,” Cook said. “I didn’t know what to do but wanted to do something.”

Last year, after finding out that Danville Regional Medical Center’s blood supply always runs low during the holidays, she decided to sponsor a blood drive.

She scheduled the Blood Mobile for the parking lot at H2O Zone and set out to collect toys, coats and blankets.

Cook especially remembers the man in the 2008 drive who came by and although he couldn’t donate blood, he literally took the coat off his back and donated it.

Center for Voluntarism Vicki Robertson knows all about the benefits to the community of volunteering because she works as the Volunteer Coordinator at the Dan River Center for Voluntarism.

“There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available to people living in the Danville/Pittsylvania County area,” she said. “Individuals may share their time, talents and skills in opportunities ranging from knitting and sewing to computer instructing and graphic designing, or they may learn new skills such as preparing income taxes.

“Through volunteering, there are opportunities to work with youth, the elderly and special populations, as well as opportunities for individuals to address issues that plague our community, such as hunger, health, homelessness, literacy, and violence.”

She said there are plenty of options, whether people have one, five or 40 hours per week or even if they can only volunteer for yearly events organizations have.

“People who think that they are just one person and can’t make a difference, should consider what the Danville/ Pittsylvania County community would look like if everyone felt that way and chose to do nothing,” she said. “It only takes one person to teach an adult to read, to tutor or mentor a child, to provide CPR or to serve lunch to the hungry.

Just as one man’s dream can change the world, so too can one person’s actions change the lives of so many in our small community.”

Three individuals came to Robertson’s mind when she thought about volunteers who had made a difference in the community: Dewey Deboe, a retired octogenarian, volunteers his time and talents to build handicapped ramps for clients of Piedmont Independent Living. Daryl Elliott, a National College student, provides computer instruction, maintenance and website design to non-profit organizations. Constance Henderson, a resident of Cardinal Village, started providing homework assistance to neighborhood youth, which has

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Feature | Throw a Starfish into the Ocean now ballooned into a larger effort and a learning center and computer lab at Cardinal Village.

“These individuals show that neither age, gender, station in life or working alone should be a deterrent,” she said. “When they realized there was a need, they answered the call. They, along with many other amazing volunteers in the region, make it their mission to answer the call and make a difference in the lives of others each day.”

A Kid’s Food Drive Dan River Middle School students also got involved with volunteering during the recent Christmas season by sponsoring a food drive.

The students decided to collect and donate food to God’s Storehouse that was “kid friendly,” or food that appeals to children, such as ravioli, macaroni and cheese, and peanut butter.

Some of the 1946 pounds of food collected at Dan River Middle School.

The food drive didn’t begin with this year’s kids, though, but with one student years ago, who had cancer and a passion for the food bank—Misty Adkins, who died in 1996.

“Before she died, Misty asked the principal, Sherri Crumpton, to promise to keep the food bank stocked, so this drive was in her memory,” said Dena Hill, a Dan River Middle School teacher. “We titled it ‘Kids Helping Kids,’ and we had huge outlines of kid drawings lining our library window.”

Before it was over, the entire school got involved with the winning homeroom collecting the most items being treated to a pizza and karaoke party. Each adult in the school has a mentor team of students, and Hill’s team started a candy cart last year and will use the proceeds to pay for the party, proving that the goodness of volunteering is self-perpetuating.

The food drive made a lasting impression on many of the students.

Mrs. Crumpton the principle and Ms. Hill cocoordinator for the mentor group.

“It felt very good to do something for the needy,” Crissie Hill, one of the students, said. “I couldn’t imagine anything any better. It was a very good experience for us.”

Other mentor groups at the school did other projects.

One provided Christmas dinner for a family and another sang Christmas carols at a nursing home.

“I felt wonderful,” Caitlyn Stewart, one of the students, said.

“I have joy and excitement running through me.”

With just these few examples, it is apparent that there are boundless opportunities in the area to throw starfish back one at a time into the ocean. Robertson urged people to challenge themselves in 2010 by finding something they can do as a volunteer. And if you can’t think of anything by just looking around, she has plenty of ideas.

Contact her at the Dan River Center for Voluntarism, 308 Craghead Street, Danville, 434-792-3700, extension 227 or visit www.1800volunteer.org.SM

Dan River Middle School Mentoring group.

Susan Elzey is a freelance writer based in Danville. She can be reached at (434) 770-2473 or susanelzey@yahoo.com.

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ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT | HELPING HANDS | HOBBIES/SPORTS | KIDS | LIFESTYLE/LECTURE

DON’T MISS...

JAN ‘10

Danville

23 – Hatching the Past: Danville Science Center: M-S 9:30am– 5pm: Sun 1–5pm: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

10 - Trio con Brio Copenhagen Concert: Danville Concert Association: The North Theatre: 3pm: 434.792.9242: www. danvilleconcert.org.

SOUTH BOSTON

*

NORTH CAROLINA

AreaEVENTSGuide

Martinsville

9-Feb. 20 – Works on Paper Exhibit: Piedmont Arts: Reception & Gallery Talk, 1/8, 5:30pm: 276.632.3221: www.piedmontarts.org.

SALEM

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South Boston

DAANVILLE

*

LYNCHBURG

*

MARTINSVILLE

*

ROANOKE

*

22 – Brian Vander Ark Concert: The Prizery: 7:30pm: 434.572.8339: www.prizery.com.

DANVILLE Arts/Exhibits 2 – Bob Ross Painting Class: Ballou Park Annex Building: 10:30am-3:30pm: $60: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

4-26 – Painting Class with Judie: Ballou Park Annex: Mon or Tues/Times Vary: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

6-Feb. 10 – Art with Flo: Location/Times Vary: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

23 – Hatching the Past: Danville Science Center: M-S 9:30am–5pm: Sun 1–5pm: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

Kids/Family 4-27 – Tadpoles Learning To Swim: YWCA: M/W, 6-6:45pm: Ages 3-5: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

5-27 – Koates Kids Pre-School Program: Coates Rec Center: Ages 3-5: Tues/Wed 9:30am-12:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

5-28 – Toddler’s Morning Out: Glenwood Community Center: Ages Walking-3: 9:3010:15am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

6,20 – Fetch! Lab: Danville Science Center: Ages 8–12: 3:45–4:45pm: $3/$6: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

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7,14,21,28 – Curiosity Corner: Coates Rec Center: Ages 3-5: 9:30am-12:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

9 – Story Time with Mrs. Amy: LifeWay Christian Store, Coleman Center: Ages 2-10: 11-11:30am: 434.799.5889.

12 – Little Ones on the Move: Glenwood Community Center: Ages Walking-3: 10:3011:15am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

12,19,26 - After School Archery: Coates Rec Center: 3-5:30pm: 434.799.5215: ww.danville-va.gov.

12,26 – Polliwogs & Science Stars: Danville Science Center: Polliwogs, 1–2pm; Science Stars, 3:45-4:45pm: $3/$6: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

13-Feb. 17 – Tumblin for Tiny Tots: Glenwood Community Center: Ages Walking-3: Wed, 10:30-11:15am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

13,20,27,Feb.3 –YouthAdventures Series: Ballou Nature Center: 3:30-5pm: Ages 8-12: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

14-Feb. 18 – Making A Mess Can Be Fun: Glenwood Community Center: Ages Walking-3: Th, 10:30-11:15am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

19-Feb. 23 – Building Imaginations-One Block At A Time: Glenwood Community Center: Ages Walking-3: Tu, 12:30-1:15pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

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19-Feb. 23 – Music and Movement: Glenwood Community Center: Tu, 1:302:15pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

21,28 – Lions,Tigers and Bears-Oh My!: Glenwood Community Center: 11:30am12:15pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

23-Feb. 27 - Preschool Programs: Coates Rec Center: Tumblin’ Tots, 9:30–10:15am: Itty Bitty Basketball, 10:30–11:15am: FourWheeling Tots, 10:15–11am: Preschool Cheerleading, 11:30–12:15pm: 434.799.5215: ww.danville-va.gov.

30 – Teddy Bear Parade: Pepsi Building: 10:30am-12pm: 434.797.8848: www.danvilleva.gov.

Entertainment 2 - Landon Spradlin Blues Band: The Gretna Theatre: 7pm: 434.656.3377: www.thegretnatheatre.co.

7,14,21,28 – 57 Express Bluegrass Concert: Community Center, Chatham: 7pm: 434.432.3115: www.chathamcares.org.

10 - Trio con Brio Copenhagen Concert: Danville Concert Association: The North Theatre: 3pm: 434.792.9242: www.danvilleconcert.org.

15 – Corks & Forks: Danville Science Center: 6:30–9:30pm: $35: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

Area EVENTS Guide 15 – Soundcheck, Open Mic Night: Community Center, Chatham: 7pm: 434.432.3115: www.chathamcares.org.

23 – Northridge Bluegrass Band Concert: Community Center, Chatham: 7– 9pm: 434.432.3115: www.chathamcares.org.

28,29,30 – A Night of Short Scenes: Averett University, Pritchett Auditorium: 7:30pm: $8/$6: 434.791.5712: www.averettpx.rtrk.com.

Lifestyle/Lectures 2 - Book Release Party-Bernard Boulton: Courtyard Marriott : 5-8pm: 434.797.1056.

6 – Lighten Up for Life:Ballou Rec.Center: 9–11am: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

6,13,20,27 – RiverCity Toastmasters: National College of Business and Technology: 1 pm: 434.793.6822 or 434.770.8370.

7 – Budgeting to Live Within Your Means: City Auditorium: 6pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

7,14,21,28 – The Art of Meditation: Ballou Rec. Center: 6–7pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

7,14,21,28 – Energy Basics: Ballou Rec. Center: 7–8:30pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

11 – Retirement Plan Options Class: Coates Rec Center: 6-8pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

12 – The Thief ’s Gift-Exploring Holiday Blues: Ballou Rec. Center: 2–4pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

13 – Alzheimer’s Presentation: Partner with Your Doctor: 12–1pm: Melanie Vaughan – 434.792.3700 x30.

14 – Understanding Your Credit Report: City Auditorium: 6pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

19 – Cacti and Succulents: Danville Science Center: 7pm: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

21 – Alzheimer’s Presentation: Ask the Neurologist: 5:15-6:15pm: Melanie Vaughan – 434.792.3700 x30.

21 – How to Prepare to Buy A Home: City Auditorium: 5:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

23 – Winter Fire: Trinity United Methodist Church: 9am: 434.793.4196.

25 – Retirement Reality Check: Coates Rec Center: 6:30pm: 434.797.8848: www. danville-va.gov.

27 – Alzheimer’s Presentation: Hospital to Home: 12–2pm: Melanie Vaughan – 434.792.3700 x30.

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Hobbies/Sports 4,6,20 – Bingo: Location/Times Vary: 434.799.5216: www.danville-va.gov.

4,11,25 – Boogie Monday: Mambo I : Ballou Rec. Center: 7–8:30pm: $3/$15: 434.799.5216: www.danville-va.gov.

5,12,19,26 – West African Dance & Drumming Class: City Auditorium: 4:306pm: Free: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

5,12,19,26 – African Dance Ensemble: Pepsi Building: 6-7:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

5,12,19,26 – Sewing w/ Kitty: Coates Rec. Center: 6:30-8:30pm: 434.797.8848: www. danville-va.gov.

5-27 – Adult Strength and Conditioning Class: 5-6pm: Tu-Coates Rec. Center: Wed-Ballou Rec. Center: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

5-28 – Chicks w/ Sticks - Knitting & Crocheting Class: City Armory: T/Th 11:30am-1pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

6 – Senior Bowling Tournament: Riverside Lanes: 10am–12pm: $5: 434.791.2695: www.danville-va.gov.

6,13,20,27 – Guitar Basics Class: City Auditorium: Youth/Teens-5pm, Adult-5:30pm: Free: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

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Area EVENTS Guide 7 – Night Hike: Ballou Nature Center: 6-8pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

7,14,21,28 – Aquacize: YWCA: 8:15am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

9 – Philpott Lake Hike: Ballou Park: 9am– 5pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

11 – Stained Glass Class: 9am–12pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

11 – Hand Sewn Quilts Class: City Auditorium: 6-8pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

11,25 – Chess Night: Ballou Rec. Center: 6–8pm: 434.799.5216: www.danville-va.gov.

12 – Photography Club: Ballou Annex Building: 6:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

12-Feb. 4 – Beginning Swimming Adventures: TuTh 3:30-4:15 pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

13 – Nature Series - Owls: Ballou Nature Center: 6-8pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

14 – Planning For Spring: Coates Rec. Center: 6:30pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

18-Feb. 22 – Belly Dance Classes: Pepsi Building: Intermediate, 5:30pm: Beginning, 6:45pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

20,21,27,28 – Kayak Roll Class: YMCA: 7–9pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

23 – Hanging Rock State Park Hike: Ballou Park: 8am–5pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

23 – Instant Piano For Hopelessly Busy People: Ballou Annex: 9am: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

25 – Cake Decorating Made Easy: Glenwood Community Center: 6–8pm: 434.797.8848: www.danville-va.gov.

28 – Sky Watchers: Danville Science Center: Nightfall: 434.791.5160: www.dsc.smv.org.

30 – Antique Show: Community Center, Chatham: 9am–5pm: 434.432.3115: www.chathamcares.org.

30 – Ice Skating Adventure-Liberty University: Ballou Park: 10:30am–3:30pm: 434.799.5215: www.danville-va.gov.

MARTINSVILLE Arts/Exhbits 4,11,18,25 – Oil Painting Class: SpencerPenn Centre: 6:30–8:30pm: 276.957.5757: www.thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

6,13,20,27 – Floyd Figures Art Group: The Sun Music Hall: 1:30–4:30pm: 540.745.7880: www.thesunmusichall.com.

7 – Bob Ross Painting Workshop: Piedmont Arts: 10am-3:30pm: 276.632.3221: www.piedmontarts.org.

9 – Try It Out Classes: Woodturning, Pottery or Jewelry Making: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 9am–1pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

9-Feb. 20 – Works on Paper Exhibit: Piedmont Arts: Reception & Gallery Talk, 1/8, 5:30pm: 276.632.3221: www.piedmontarts. org.

11,18,25, Feb. 1 – Beginning Metal Jewelry Fabrication Techniques: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6–9pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

12-Feb. 9 – Basic Woodturning: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 69pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

12-March 24 – Intro to Ceramics: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6-8:30pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

14-March 25 – Sculpture for Beginners: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6-8:30pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

16 – Intro to Whittling: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 9am–4pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

16,23,30 – Intro to Picture Framing: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 10am–1pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

19,26, Feb. 2 – Exploring Polymer Clay: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6-9pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

21,28, Feb. 4,11 – Craft Painting Studio: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 1–3pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

23-Sept, 18 – Messages from the Mesozoic Exhibit: Virginia Museum of Natural History: 276.634.4141: www.vmnh.net.

25-April 5 – Portrait and Figure Painting Class: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6–8pm: www.southernvirginiaartisan center.org.

30, Feb. 6 – Pottery for your Valentine: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 10am– 12pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter. org.

Kids/Family 4-27– Family Aerobics: Spencer-Penn Centre: MWF 6:30pm: 276.957.5757: www.thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

6,20 – Doodle Bugs: Virginia Museum of Natural History: 1/6-Snow is Falling: 1/20-Our Senses: 10am & 3pm: Ages 3-5: 276.634.4185: www.vmnh.net.

23 – Dino Day Family Festival: Virginia Museum of Natural History: 10am–4pm: 276.634.4141: www.vmnh.net.

Entertainment 1,8,15,22,29 – Friday Night Jamboree: Floyd Country Store: 6:30pm: $3: 540.745.4563: www.floydcountrystore.com.

Merle Norman

of South Boston

Would like to thank everyone that voted for us.

I would also like if to say that we owe everything to all of our wonderful customers and we look forward to serving them in the future.

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Area EVENTS Guide 3,10,17,24,31 – Traditional Bluegrass/ Mountain Music Jam: Floyd Country Store: 2-5pm: 540.745.4563: www. floydcountrystore.com.

8 – Skyline Drive Concert: SpencerPenn Centre: 5:30pm: 276.957.5757: www. thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

Hobbies/Sports 7 – Line Dancing Class: Spencer-Penn Centre: 6:30–7:30pm: 276.957.5757: www. thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

7,14,21,28 – Chair Aerobics: SpencerPenn Centre: Th 11:30am: 276.957.5757: www.thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

21 – Photography Class: Spencer-Penn Centre: 6–8pm: 276.957.5757: www. thecentreatspencerpenn.com.

21,28 – Cooking Class: Hearty Full Meal Soups: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6– 9pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

25-May 3 – Ballroom Dancing Class: Southern Virginia Artisan Center: 6–8pm: www.southernvirginiaartisancenter.org.

LYNCHBURG Arts/Exhbits 1 – First Fridays Art Walk: Downtown Lynchburg: 5-8pm: www.downtownlynchburg. com.

11-March 3 – Pottery Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Times/Days Vary: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

11-March 8 – Figure Drawing: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Mon. 7–9:30pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

12-March 2 – Painting Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Weds: Watercolor, 9:30am–12pm: Theory and Practice of Painting, 7–9:30pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

13-March 3 – Art Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Tues: Watercolor in Landscapes, 9:30am–12pm: Portrait Drawing, 6:30–9pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

14,21 – Introduction to Jewelry Making: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 6:30-8:30pm: $85: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

14-Feb. 18 – Tile and Mosaic Mirror Frame: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Thurs, 9:30am–12pm: $175: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

14-March 4 – Art Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Thurs: Painting in Oils, 9:30am–12pm: Artists’ Books, 7–8:30pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

15-March 19 – Open Arts Studio: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 9:30am-12pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

16 – Wood Firing Pottery Class: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 2–3:30pm: $50-

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$100: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

16 – Photographing your Art: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 3:30-4:30pm: $30: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

23,24 – Precious Metal Clay Intro: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 1:30pm: $125: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

28-March 4 – Jewelry Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Thurs 6:30-8:30pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

30 – Paper & Fabric Surface Design: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 10am-3pm: $55: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

Kids/Family 11-Feb. 8 – Act Your Age Theatre Class: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Ages 8-12: 4–5pm: $50: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

12,19,26,Feb. 2 – Kids Clayworks: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 4-5:15pm, $65: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

13,20,27,Feb. 3 – Art Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Artic Blast, Ages 3.5-5, 3-3:45pm, $40: Chill Out with Art, Ages 6-10, 4-5pm, $50: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

13-March 3 – Irish Stepdance Classes: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Weds: Beginner 4–5pm, Advanced Beginner 4:30-5:30pm, Advanced Choreography Group 5:30-7pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

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Area EVENTS Guide 16 – Maltese Mystery Day: Amazement Square: 10am–5pm: 434.845.1888: www.amazementsquare.org.

21–Feb. 25 – Clayventure: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Thurs, 4-5:45pm, $95: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

23 – Book Cover Art: Amazement Square: 1–3pm: 434.845.1888: www.amazementsquare.org.

30 – Book Lover’s Bash: Amazement Square: 1–3pm: 434.845.1888: www.amazementsquare.org.

Entertainment 1-16 – The Housekeeper: The Renaissance Theatre: Fri-Sun: Times Vary: 434.845.4427: www.renaissancetheatre.info.

4,18 – Celtic Session: Inklings Bookshop & The White Hart: 7:30pm: 434.455.1659: www.inklingswhitehart.com.

8 – Jimmy Rushing with the Fnatticks Concert: The Ellington: 5pm: $8: 434.845.2162: www.theellington.org.

9 – Jessie & James Comedy Dog Show: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 1 & 5pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

11 – Dempsey & Robertson Concert: White Hart Cafe: 7:30pm: 434.455.1659: www.inklingswhitehart.com.

16 – Gina Sicilia Concert: The Ellington: 7:30pm: $25/$20: 434.845.2162: www.theellington.org.

22 – The Nite Owls Concert: The Ellington: 5pm: $8: 434.845.2162: www.theellington.org.

23 – Tap Kids: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 7:30pm: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

25 – Old-Time Session: White Hart Cafe: 7:30pm: 434.455.1659: www.inklingswhitehart.com.

28 – Lecture Recital Series-Piano Performance: Lynchburg College, Snidow Chapel: 7:30pm: 434.544.8344: www.lynchburg.edu.

Lifestyle/Lecture 2,9,16,23,30 – Saturday Farmers Market: Lynchburg Community Market: 7am-2pm: www.downtownlynchburg.com.

25 – Science and Not Science Senior Symposium Lecture: Lynchburg College, Claytor Nature Study Center: 12pm: 434.544.8380: www.lynchburg.edu.

Hobbies/Sports 11,18 – Digital Camera How-To: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 6:30-9pm: $85: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

11-March 8 – Beginner Guitar: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Mon, 7:15-8:15pm: $85: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

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14-March 4 – Adult Ballet: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: Thurs, 7:15-8:15pm: $75: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

16 – How to Use Your SLR Camera: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 10am-3pm: $85: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

23 – Using the Flash ofYour SLR Camera: Academy of Fine Arts Studio: 10am-3pm: $85: 434.528.3256: www.academyfinearts.com.

SMITH MT. LAKE/ BEDFORD Arts/Exhbits 1-30 - Holiday Exhibit: Goose Creek Studio, Bedford: Tu-Fri 10am–5pm, Sat. 10am–2pm: 540.586.8482: www.goosecreekstudio.com.

1-30 - Model Train Exhibit: Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library: MSat 10am–5pm: 540.586.4520: www. bedfordvamuseum.org/trains.

Entertainment 16 - Dana & Susan Robinson Concert: Bedford Public Library: 7:30pm: $10: 540.586.8911: www.friendsofbedfordlibrary. org.

17 – Virginia Carolina Band Concert: Still Waters Coffee House: 8pm: 540.583.1003: www.stillwaterscoffeehouse. com.

Lifestyle/Lecture 9 – Old City Cemetery Guest SpeakerDawn Fields: Central VA Community College: 1:30pm: 540.466.4247: www.bedfordgensociety.org.

ROANOKE Arts/Exhibits Thru Feb. 7 – Sordid and SacredRembrandt’s Etchings: Taubman Museum of Art: www.taubmanmuseum.org.

7 – Art By Night: Downtown Roanoke Art Walk: 5-9pm: Free: www.roanokeartbynight. com.

Kids & Family 9 – Art Workshop: Taubman Museum of Art: Ages 10-13: 10am-1pm: $25/$35: www.taubmanmuseum.org.

12,14 – Access through the Arts: Taubman Museum of Art: 1/12-Ages 5-8, 4-5pm; 1/14-Ages 9-12, 4:30-5:30pm: www.taubmanmuseum.org.

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13,20,27 – Starting with Art: Taubman Museum of Art: Ages 6-8: 4-5:30pm: www.taubmanmuseum.org.

29,30,31 – Kid’s Winter Carnival: Salem Civic Center: 7pm: 540.375.3004: www.salemciviccenter.com.

Entertainment 8,9,10 –WalkingWith Dinosaurs: Roanoke Civic Center: www.roanokeciviccenter.com.

9 – Big Lick Conspiracy: Jefferson Center: 8pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

15 – Comedian James Gregory: Jefferson Center: 7:30pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

16 – Jazz Club-Bebop & Beyond: Jefferson Center: 8pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

22 – Cabin Fever Series-The Embers: Roanoke Civic Center: 6pm: 540.342.2640: www.cabinfeverseries.org.

23 – Southwest Virginia Ballet: Taubman Museum of Art: 1pm: www.svballet.org.

23 – Latin Dance Party: Jefferson Center: 8pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

25 – Roanoke Symphony OrchestraSounds of Life: Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre: 8pm: www.roanokeciviccenter.com.

28 – MacMaster & Leahy Concert: Jefferson Center: 7:30pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

29 – Kandinsky Trio-Marcolivia: Roanoke College Olin Theater: 8-9pm: www.roanoke.edu.

31 – Kallen Esperian Concert: Jefferson Center: 2:30pm: 540.345.2550: www.jeffcenter.org.

Lifestyle/Lectures 5,12,19,26 – Nature and Adventure Series: Hollins University Babcock Auditorium: 7pm: www.hollins.edu.

8 – Box Lunch Forum: Taubman Museum of Art: 12-1pm: www.taubmanmuseum.org.

14 – A Visit to Vietnam Slide Presentation: History Museum of Western Virginia: 7-9pm: 540.342.5770: www.historymuseum.org.

22,23 – Roanoke Regional Writers Conference: Hollins University: 540.556.8510: www.hollins.edu.

28 – Internationalization: Broadening Our Economic Impact: Roanoke College: 6-8pm: www.roanoke.edu.

Hobbies/Sports 1,2,3 – Roanoke Valley Gun Show: Roanoke Civic Center Special Events Center: 9am: www.roanokeciviccenter.com.

8,9,10 – Home & Garden Show: Roanoke Civic Center Special Events Center: www.roanokeciviccenter.com.

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Area EVENTS Guide 8,9,10 – Stampede Championship Rodeo: Salem Civic Center: 7:30pm/2pm: 540.375.3004: www.salemciviccenter.com.

12,19,26 – Backcountry Cooking: Green Ridge Center: 6-8pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

13-Feb. 17 – Travel Spanish: Green Ridge Center: Wed 7:30pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

14-Feb. 11 – Native American Flute: Green Ridge Center: Th 6:30pm: www. roanokecountyparks.com.

15,16 – Monster Truck and Thrill Show: Salem Civic Center: 7:30pm: 540.375.3004: www.salemciviccenter.com.

18-Feb. 15 – Shag Dance: Green Ridge Center: Mon 7pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

19-March 16 – Into to Mosaics: Green Ridge Center-Tues 9:30am or Wed 6:30pm: Brambleton Center-Mon 6pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

20-Feb. 24 – Egyptian Style Belly Dance For Beginners: Green Ridge Center: Wed 7pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

20-Feb. 25 – Ballroom Line Dance: Brambleton Center-Wed 7:30pm: Green Ridge Center-Th 2pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

20-March 1 – Beginning Sewing I: Green Ridge Center-Wed 6:30pm: Brambleton Center-Mon 6:30pm: www.roanokecountyparks.com.

21-Feb. 25 – Foxtrot Dance: Green Ridge Center: Th 7pm: www.roanokecountyparks. com.

23 – Angels Rest Hike: Green Ridge Center: 9am-5pm: www.roanokecountyparks. com.

23,24 – Salem Gun & Knife Traders Show: Salem Civic Center: 540.375.3004: www.salemciviccenter.com.

NORTH CAROLINA Kids/Family 5,12,19,26 – Family Skate Night: Thunder Lanes Bowling Center, Roxboro: 69pm: 336.598.5050 X118: www.palacepointe. com.

15 – Ananse the Spider: Caswell County Civic Center, Yanceyville: 10am & 12:30pm: 336.694.4591: www.ccfta.org.

Entertainment 1-29 – Veronica Jones Music: Cafe 99: Reidsville: Wed & Fri, 12:15–1:15pm & 710pm: www.downtownreidsvillenc.com.

1,8,15,22,29 – DownHome Place Country Music & Dance: Jefferson Penn Masonic Lodge, Reidsville: 7–10pm: www.downtownreidsvillenc.com.

5,12,19,26 – Bluegrass Jamboree: Downtown Reidsville Exhibit Center: 7–9pm: www.downtownreidsvillenc.com.

7,14,21,28 – Acoustic Guitar-Thursday Nights with Tony: Backstreet Buzz Coffee House: 6–8pm: www.downtownreidsvillenc. com.

8,22– Open Jam Night: Backstreet Buzz Coffee House: 7–9pm: www.downtownreidsvillenc.com.

16– Having Our Say: Kirby Theatre, Roxboro: 7:30pm: 336.597.1709: www.KirbyTheater.com.

Hobbies/Sports 1-30 – All U Can Bowl Cosmic Special: Thunder Lanes Bowling Center, Roxboro: $16.95/person: Fri & Sat 9pm–12am: 336.598.5050 X118: www.palacepointe.com.

3,10,17,24,31 – Quarter Mania Bowling: Thunder Lanes Bowling Center, Roxboro: $6 cover: 6–9pm: 336.598.5050 X118: www.palacepointe.com.

9 – Block-a-Month Quilting: Everyday Art Gallery, Reidsville: 9:30-11:30am: 336.347.7015: www.everydayartgallery.com.

SOUTH BOSTON Kids/Family 2-31 – Family Fun Day: World of Sports: Sat–11am-6pm, Sun–1-6pm & Wed–11am-7pm: $39: 434.572.2695: www.worldofsportsfun.com.

Entertainment 22 – Brian Vander Ark Concert: The Prizery: 7:30pm: 434.572.8339: www.prizery.com.

25 – Harold And The Purple Crayon: The Prizery: 7pm: 434.572.8339: www.prizery.com.

Hobbies/Sports 7,14,21,28 – “Quartermania” Bowling: World of Sports: $4 Cover Charge, 25¢/ game, shoe rental: 8pm–Close: 434.572.2695: www.worldofsportsfun.com.

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Vicious Cycle Do you think that it’s odd that women gained the right to vote the same year the first electric-powered washing machine became available?

It was a year that would change women forever. And perhaps enable women to become a stronger voice in their families, communities, and eventually their countries. You take away a woman’s scrub board and she becomes a boisterous ambition.

Obviously washing machines have come a long way over the past 100 years. Could you imagine scrubbing your family’s dirty clothes with your hands!? Or whisking them round and round in a big drum of water? That just has backache written all over. Not to mention scattering them alongside the wood stove to dry.

I adore my washing machine and dryer. And ever since I invested in front loaders last year, my life has become easier, I think.

Yes I can wash more clothes at once, but I also have more clothes to fold, hang, and put away at once. And I don’t particularly like that part of the whole laundry process.

Laundry will never go away and keep in mind, not everyone is cut out for this. So moms, if you think pass-

ing off some of the laundry duties to your teenager is going to make you life easier, you want to closely examine the situation before claiming your washroom relief. It’s an acquired talent and only should be attempted after proper training.

Laundry can consume the life of the person in charge of it. Laundry is a great responsibility. The bigger the kids get, the bigger the clothes get, and less clothes will fit in the washer at a time. Laundry will never go away.

Unless you have no children, live alone, and get everything dry cleaned you should know exactly what I am talking about.

On a side note, remember when we were babies and everything fit into one load? Aww. Sometimes I walk into my washroom and think I’ll be sick. But most of the time I walk in and think bonfire.

I have tried different approaches to my laundry dilemma, but I always fail.

I always go back to the same routine.

And that routine is washing a load every time there is a load to be washed.

This means I wash anywhere from two to three loads a day...every day. That’s not counting the weekly loads of washing the kids’ coats, and bi-weekly loads of bed sheets and comforters.

I once tried to let the laundry accumulate and do it all in one day. I cannot begin to describe to you what that day was like. Let me put it this way, that horrific day of laundry took all of the patience and sanity out of me. But,

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as I quickly got back to washing daily, I slowly but surely regained some of my couth.

And you might not believe this, but I actually like doing laundry. It’s a very gratifying and rewarding experience. To be able to rid an entire floor of clothes feels great. But here’s what gets me...inside out shirts, inside out socks, pants with one leg inside out, pants with both legs inside out (this never happens, but I would not like it if it did), socks with leaves stuck to the bottom and I only know it when I turn socks right-side out and the leaves fall out everywhere (Don’t go outside in your socks!), a huge bath towel still folded up with a big smear of toothpaste on it from a tiny mouth, shirts that I did not see worn, but are in the dirty clothes because it’s easier than hanging them back up, a sock with no mate, pants with a belt still in them, I could go on.

But, what I might dislike more even more than all of that is when I have a complete sense of accomplishment, every single article of clothing is cleaned, dried, folded, hung, and put away...and then Jason brings me a sock, a pillow case, a pair of jeans, and a t-shirt he found on the closet floor.

Ugh. But in today’s busy world, as parents we must pick out battles, and dirty laundry in the hamper is what it is.

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