Showcase Magazine April 2024

Be Different. Stand Out.

Be Different. Stand Out.

DAVID HOBSON’S KEY TO LONGEVITY IN SUCCESS

DAVID HOBSON’S KEY TO LONGEVITY IN SUCCESS

showcase showcase

APRIL 2024

CEO

Andrew Scott Brooks scott@showcasemagazine.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Paul Seiple | paul@showcasemagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim Demont | demontdesign@verizon.net

FINANCE MANAGER

Cindy Astin-Yeatts | cindy@showcasemagazine.com

ADVERTISING

Lee Vogler | Director of Sales and Marketing lee@showcasemagazine.com | 434.548.5335

Emily Wilkerson | Executive Assistant emily@showcasemagazine.com

753 Main Street #3, Danville, VA 24541 • Phone 434.709.7349 info@showcasemagazine.com • www.showcasemagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Paulette Dean | Arnold Hendrix | Robin Marcato

Paul Seiple | Lee Vogler CONTRIBUTING

City of Danville | Danville Area Humane Society

Laura Mae Photography | Lee Vogler

David Hobson. Photo by Laura Mae Photography

Be Different. Stand Out.

David Hobson’s Key to Longevity in Success

BY PAUL SEIPLE PHOTOS BY LAURA MAE PHOTOGRAPHY

In the ever-changing world of business where technology and personal touch intersect, David Hobson stands as a testament to the power of evolution, dedication, and customer service. Hobson, the owner of Docusystems Company Inc. and River City Printing Solutions, has navigated the copier and printing industries for over 30 years, witnessing a remarkable transformation from analog-to-digital, and everything in between. His journey, rooted in a work ethic developed during his early years of tossing papers on sidewalks, showcases a narrative of growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Hobson’s venture into entrepreneurship began with a phone call from a friend, presenting an opportunity that would pivot his career path towards the copier industry. With no prior knowledge but an eagerness to learn and excel, Hobson tripled the business in nine years before deciding to embark on his own entrepreneurial journey. A vision of a business that mirrored his own values: hard work, quick service, and a personal touch fueled this decision. As a Minolta dealer who strategically transitioned to Konica Minolta following their merger, Hobson positioned his company, Docusystems, to be at the forefront of copier and printing solutions in the region.

Central to Hobson’s success is his unwavering commitment to customer service. “My work ethic really came from being a paperboy,” Hobson recalled, emphasizing the importance of doing things right and taking care of people. This ethos has translated into a business model that prioritizes rapid response times and comprehensive service offerings, setting Docusystems apart from competitors. With an

average response time of 48 minutes, compared to the industry standard of 48 hours, Hobson’s team ensures businesses experience minimal downtime, a critical factor in today’s fast-paced environment.

The company’s reach extends across three counties, servicing educational institutions, businesses, and state contracts with about 300 machines. Docusystems has become synonymous with reliability and quality, attributes that have fostered long-standing relationships with clients like the Danville Community College (DCC) and various school districts. These partnerships underline Hobson’s ability to adapt and meet the developing needs of his customers, offering everything from architectural blueprint machines to multifunctional devices.

Beyond the realm of copier and printing solutions, Hobson has built an illustrious career that spanned nearly 50 years of racing motorcycles. His personal passion for motocross and his approach to business share a common thread: the drive to excel independently while embracing the challenge headon. Racing, much like his business, is about achieving results through hard work and determination, a philosophy that has guided him to many state championships. Hobson noted he retired as a champion. “If I wanted to race now, I’d be in the 60+ (age class). I’d probably still kick butt.”

As the landscape of the printing and copier industry continues to grow, so does Hobson’s approach to business. His recent venture into the printing business, River City Printing Solutions, marks a

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significant expansion of his services, embracing digital technologies to offer a wide range of in-house marketing solutions. This move not only diversifies his business offerings but also strengthens his commitment to providing comprehensive solutions to his clients.

At the heart of Hobson’s story is a lesson in perseverance, innovation, and the importance of maintaining a personal connection with clients. His journey from a young paperboy to a respected business owner in the copier and printing industries exemplifies the impact of hard work, strategic planning, and a customer-centric approach. As Hobson looks to the future, his dedication to his craft,

his employees, and his clients remains unwavering, a testament to his belief in the power of relationships and service excellence.

In reflecting on his career, Hobson offers sage advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Be different. Stand out.” His success is a map for those looking to navigate the complex waters of business, emphasizing the importance of a strong work ethic, a keen understanding of customer needs, and the ability to adapt to technological advancements. As Hobson continues to grow his business and explore new opportunities, his story serves as an inspiring blueprint for achieving success through dedication, innovation, and a personal touch.

A Promise of Improved Health and Well-Being PATHS opens a new facility in South Boston

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PATHS

Nestled in the vibrant heart of South Boston, health shines brightly with the opening of PATHS’ (Piedmont Access to Health Services) latest facility. This is a significant milestone for the healthcare provider, with a philosophy deeply rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to exceptional healthcare, regardless of their financial situation.

One of the most anticipated additions to the facility is the introduction of a comprehensive OB-GYN

program. Previously, residents of South Boston had to travel elsewhere for these essential services. “The past location did not have OB-GYN services. So, at the new facility, we are very excited to offer that service line to that community,” Tammy Osborne, Women’s Health Operations Manager of PATHS, said. This program promises a full spectrum of women’s health services, including obstetric care, GYN care, and ultrasound care, ensuring women at any stage of life receive the care they need from a dedicated team of professionals.

But the facility’s commitment doesn’t stop at women’s health. Recognizing the critical importance of oral health, PATHS has expanded to include dental care, addressing a gap that forced many residents to seek services far from home. “We were getting a lot of referrals. They were having to come to Danville,” Marsha Mendenhall, CEO of PATHS, added.

The new PATHS facility embodies a holistic approach to healthcare, offering a “one-stop-shop” for the community’s needs. From a full-service pharmacy with a drive-through to behavioral health counselors, pediatric care, and adult primary care, the facility ensures that comprehensive care is not just a concept, but a reality for the people of South Boston.

This all-encompassing approach is part of PATHS’s broader vision to provide exceptional healthcare to all. “It gives us a space to grow. It really expands the number of patients we can see,” Mendenhall said, underscoring the transformative potential of the new space. The facility not only offers room for immediate growth but also holds promise for future expansion with additional undeveloped land poised to become a community park.

Education and community involvement stand as pillars of PATHS’s mission, with the facility’s conference center set to host a myriad of health education programs. “We’re really excited about it. We welcome the community if they’ve got ideas to call us, and we’ll work with them,” Mendenhall said, inviting the community to play an active role in shaping the facility’s future.

The outreach efforts to inform the community about the new facility and its offerings are robust, including plans for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and engagements with local and federal representatives. “We’ve talked to the Delegate and the Senator. We’re planning on inviting them down so they can see what’s going on.” Mendenhall highlighted the importance of support and visibility at all levels of government.

Looking to the future, the facility plans to offer extended hours and weekend appointments, reflecting a nationwide initiative for community health centers. This commitment to accessibility strengthens PATHS’s dedication to serve the community’s needs.

Collaboration with existing healthcare providers and community organizations is key to the facility’s strategy, ensuring that patients receive seamless care and

support. “Sentara is going to bring their mobile unit to our Saturday event. We’re just open to anything in the community,” Mendenhall explained, emphasizing the power of partnership in enhancing community health.

Community feedback is essential in guiding the facility’s evolution, with patient input playing a critical role in identifying and addressing the community’s healthcare needs. “Through patient input, we’re able to provide what they need just from our patient assessments and talking with them,” Osborne said, affirming the value of listening to and involving the community in the facility’s ongoing development.

The new PATHS facility in South Boston is more than just a healthcare center; it’s a testament to the power of community, compassion, and commitment to health equity. With a wide range of services, a focus on education and collaboration, and an open invitation for community involvement, PATHS is paving the way to a healthier future for South Boston.

“It’s just a beautiful building. You could just see how happy they were to have that available to them,” Osborne reflected, capturing the essence of the facility’s impact. As the doors open to this modern, comprehensive healthcare haven, the promise of improved health and well-being for all feels closer than ever.

Ongoing

Pulse Your Monthly Navigator for April

Danville Science Center. Exhibits - Stream Into The V.O.I.D, Butterfly Station & Garden, Go!, Water, Various Dome Shows, Creativity Labs. www. dsc.smv.org.

Ruby B. Archie Public Library Programs - Don’t miss the programs offered at the Library. Adult & Tween Arts & Crafts, The Write Stuff, Pop Culture Geek Out Hour, Dig Into Your Device, De-Stress Night, Computers for Beginners, Just Write, Get More from Google, Unrequired Reading –Classics Book Club, Youth Dungeons and Dragons, Storytellers: Creative Writing 101, Total Eclipse of the Sun, Knitters Unravelled, LEGO Brick Engineers, Little Explorers Storytime, Mad Scientists, Little Learning Lab, Book Babies, Random Fandom, Enchanted Houses, Maker Mondays, Code Challengers, Fairy Tale Bash. Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails! Exhibit. Danville Science Center. www.dsc.smv.org.

DSC Dome: Dinosaurs. Come join Celeste on a time-traveling adventure to unveil the colossal creatures of yesteryears and witness the incredible transformations they experienced over millions of years. Danville Science Center Dome. www.dsc.smv.org. Danville Farmers Market. Sat 7:30am-12pm. Community Market. 434.797.8961.

Through April 15

DMFAH Exhibit. Guides: Women from the Danville - Pittsylvania County Area History Exhibit. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. 434.793.5644.

Through May 11

PAA Exhibits. Salvador Dali: Le Chants de Maldoror on loan from Virginia Museum of Fine Arts; Citizens and Soldiers: The Mostly World War II Paintings of Ken Smith; Lintspiration by Meritha Alderman. Piedmont Arts. 276.632.3221.

April 2 (thru 5)

Spring Break at the Library. 4/2-10 Spring Book Sale; 4/2 - Popcorn & a

Book, 11am. 4/2 & 3 - Painting on the Patio, 5pm & 1pm, 4/3 Paper Planes Races, 3pm; 4/5 Out of the Shadows: Eclipse Unveiled, 3-4pm. Mt. Hermon Library. 434.835.0326.

April 3

Smokestack Open Improv. StandUp Comedy and Improvisational Sketch Comedy. 6:30-8:30pm. www.thesmokestack.org.

April 3 & 26

MSAC Classes. 4/3 Kids Spring Break Class - Birdhouse, 2-4pm; 4/26 Night Paint Class, 6:30pm. $. Main Street Art Collective.

April 4

VA-NC Piedmont Genealogical Society Presents: Melanie Ide. Learn helpful tips and hear interesting stories related to genealogy topics. Ages 18+. Registration required. 2-3pm. Ruby B. Archie Public Library Auditorium. 434.799.5195.

April 4 & 9

Legal Aid Workshop: Grandparent visitation. Questions and answers workshop. 4/4 5:30-6:30pm; 4/9 1-2pm. Ruby B. Archie Public Library Auditorium. 434.799.5195.

April 5

Racin’ & Tastin’. A night of entertainment with music by Funky Bone, all-you-care-to-eat BBQ, and more. 5:30-10:30pm. Community Market. Eventbrite.

April 5, 6 & 7

Danville Kennel Club Agility Trials 8am-6pm. 434.432.8026. Olde Dominion Agricultural Center. SCCA Super Tour. $. Virginia International Raceway.

April 6

Indoor Yard Sale. 8am-12pm. Pelham Community Center. 434.489.9747.

Goodyear 5K Run/Walk. 9am. Goodyear Golf Course. Danville Running & Fitness Club. FB. National Tartan Day Learn about Scottish Highland clans, their tartans, crest badges, coats of arms and ancient

territories. Craft a Scottish thistle, taste traditional Scottish shortbread and tea, and enjoy music. 10am-1pm. Ruby B. Archie Public Library. 434.793.7432. Real to Reel Film Series: “Jane.” Movie viewing of popular documentaries and biopics with a discussion after the film. 10:30am- 1:30pm. Ruby B. Archie Public Library Auditorium. 434.799.5195.

River District Black History Tour Karice Luck-Brimmer, owner of Our History Matters, and local historian and genealogist will bring history to life. 1-2:15pm. 208 N. Union Street.

April 6 & 13

From Resistance to Resilience: Black Virginia’s Path to Freedom Programs honoring the history of Brookneal’s Black communities from 1794 to 1944. 10am-4pm. Patrick Henry’s Red Hill. www.halifaxchamber.net.

April 6 (thru 27)

Live Music. 4/6 Gave & Vic; 4/12 Cameron Owen; 4/19 Deep South; 4/20 Slaughter Avenue; 4/26 Old 97; 4/27 MaMa BriBri & The Stranger. 7-10pm. 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. 434.549.2739.

April 7 (thru 28)

Live Music. Hosted by Stuart Jennings. Sundays 2-6pm. 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. 434.549.2739.

April 9

The Gifts in Our Genes. Andrew McKnight weaves music about, and by, his ancestors into an interactive, enlightening and highly entertaining program. 7:30pm. Prizery. 434.572.8339.

April 9 (thru 25)

Parks & Rec Children & Teens Programs: Families Unplugged, Homeschool Physical Education, S.T.E.A.M. Night, Crafty Creations, Homeschool Youth & Teen Archery, Lego Lab. Coates Community Center. playdanvilleva.com. 434.799.5150.

April 9 (thru 30)

Let’s Dance. Learn to dance the ChaCha. Tuesdays, 7:15-8:45pm.

Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

April 12, 13 & 14

High School Rodeo. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex. 434.432.8026. www.theodac.com.

April 13

Bridge2Bridge Race. Run, walk, bike, and kid-friendly options including 5K, 10K, Kids Fun Run, and a half marathon. Prices and registration at bridge2bridgedanville. com. 7:30am-12pm. Danville Community Market.

Car Show. Fundraiser to support the GES Beta Club. Spectators vote and kids choice. A spaghetti dinner follows for $12pp. 1-4pm. Gretna Elementary School Bus Parking Lot.

Time Machines Car Club Cruise-In 4-8pm. 3938 S. Boston Rd., Ringgold. 434.250.1405 or 434.728.0617.

April 18

P&R Resource Fair. Get to know what resources are available for low-income seniors related to mental health, wellness, financial and legal assistance, insurance, and more. Vendors, informational sessions, onsite document shredding, and resource bags. 10am-1pm. Danville Community Market. 434.799.5216.

April 18 (thru 21)

Tobacco Road Futurity Cutting Horse Show. 8am-6pm. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex. 434.432.8026. www.theodac.com.

April 19

Triumphant Quartet. A quintessential act in the gospel music industry. 7:30pm. Prizery. 434.572.8339.

April 20

Town of Chatham Yard Sale 8am-12pm. 434.441.1877 or 434.713.5054.

Butterfly Hello! family friendly butterfly activities and experience the delight of seeing lepidoptera from across North America. 10am-3pm. Danville Science Center. www.dsc.smv.org.

Earth Day Extravaganza - Food trucks, vendors, activities for kids of all ages, and lots of information on how you can love Mother Earth. 10am-2pm. Halifax Farmers Market. www.halifaxchamber.net.

Spring Fling. Enjoy a fantastic day on the sidewalks downtown with

local vendors, artists and shops. Food and beverages available. 10am-3pm.

Downtown South Boston.

Ridin Dirty V Rock the Hollow

Enjoy live music and miles of trails to ride while helping out a good cause. 10am-8pm. Red Oak Hollow ATV Trails.

Youth Theatre Workshop. Current 5th-2th grader. www.thesmokestack. org. See ad page 11.

Art Crawl in the OWE. Community gathering showcasing local and traveling artists. Featuring works for sale and for appreciation in a variety of mediums. 1pm. Old West End Historic District.

April 23

JeopardBee Spelling Competition Fundraiser for Project Literacy. Teams compete for titles of Spelling Bee Winner, Most Creative Spellers, and Most Enthusiastic Team. Food truck on site. 2 Witches Winery and Brewing Co. 6-8:30pm. Spelling Competition starts at 6pm. 434.483.7994.

April 23 & 30

Page and Screen: “The Martian” Book discussion, 11am- 12pm (4/23). Movie viewing 11am- 2pm (4/30). Ruby B. Archie Public Library Auditorium. 434.799.5195.

April 24

Sensory-Friendly Night. Guests with disabilities can enjoy a less crowded environment as they explore exhibitions, experience a show in The Dome and get hands-on with sensoryfriendly activities. 5-7pm. Danville Science Center. www.dsc.smv.org.

April 25

Historic VA Garden Week - DanvilleChatham. 10am-5pm. DanvilleChatham@VAGardenWeek.org. The Atlanta Pops Orchestra Ensemble with Griogair. Griogair sang the theme song in season six of Outlander. 7pm. Carrington Pavilion. Danville Concert Association. eventbrite.com.

April 26

Movies at the Crossing - Gnomeo and Juliet. Gates 7pm; Movie 8pm. Community Market. 434.857.3384.

April 26 & 27

Pittsylvania-Caswell Youth Livestock Show. 4/26 9am, 4/27 8am. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex.

434.432.8026. www.theodac.com.

April 27

Spring Vendor & Plant Sale. 8am4pm. Bartlett Yancey High School. FB. Spring River Cleanup. Enhance the beauty of the Dan River and keep our area clean and green. 9am-12pm. Danville Science Center. 434.791.5160. www.dsc.smv.org.

Knights of Columbus Wine Festival. Music by Chocolate Chip Company Band. 11am-6pm. Community Market. See ad page 7. Parent/Caregiver Support Group

For parents or caregivers of individuals with a rare diagnosis, special needs, or physically challenged to help connect, share and empower one another. 1:30-2:30pm. Danville YMCA. 276.249.9592.

Chatham Cruise-In. Enjoy an evening with cars of all kinds. New entry from North. 4-8pm. Main Street, Chatham.

Upcoming

May 4

Run for the Roses. Food, live music, outrageous hats and outfits, premium bourbon, and wine & truffles. Chatham Rotary Club fundraiser gala. 5:30-8pm. Motley Mill Waterfall Estate.

May 5

Spring at the Tavern. Living History with 18th Century reenactors, food, period music, event for all the family. Childrens 18th century games. 10am-4pm. Yates Tavern, Gretna.

May 10

Flip Flop Friday. Music by Boule. 6-10pm. Homeplace Vineyard. 434.432.9463.

Writing is a Crime. Featuring Diane Fanning who will journey through her inspiration, breakthrough and process of researching and writing true crime. $. 7:30pm. Prizery. 434.572.8339.

May 11

Run for Rotary 5K. A fundraiser hosted by Danville Riverview Rotary. Packet Pickup May 5, 2-6pm, The Brick. 8:30AM-11AM. Woodall Nissan. 434.334.6699.

ODAC Spring Fling. Featuring local crafters, bakers and the kick off of the Farmers Market. 9am-4pm. Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex. 434.432.8026. www.theodac.com.

Finding ‘Home’ in Danville

A story of community, belonging, and hope

BY ARNOLD HENDRIX PHOTO PROVIDED BY CITY OF DANVILLE

In the heart of Danville, where the pulse of a city beats with the rhythm of unity and belonging, a new chapter has unfolded. Recently, amidst the hallowed halls of George Washington High School’s auditorium, the City of Danville unveiled not just a brand, but a beacon of hope, unity, and promise.

With the rallying cry “Danville: Feels Like Home,” Mayor Alonzo Jones captured the spirit of this occasion.

“Danville is more than just a city — it is a community, a family, a home,” Mayor Jones declared, his voice echoing with the unwavering commitment to ensure that every resident, regardless of background or origin, finds their place and can thrive and succeed.

At the core of this transformative initiative lies a profound truth articulated by City Manager Ken

Larking: this brand is not merely a marketing ploy but an identity — a testament to Danville’s rich history, its vibrant present, and its boundless future.

This unveiling ceremony, held in partnership with Danville Public Schools, served as a poignant reminder of the city’s dedication to its youth. “One of our greatest priorities as a city is to ensure that our youth have access to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed,” Mayor Jones affirmed as he gazed toward the students in attendance.

Larking added, “Whatever you (students) decide to do in life, the leaders of Danville are working so that, if you want to when you graduate, you will find an opportunity to live a successful life right here — close to your family and friends.”

The brand positions Danville as follows:

• Inclusive and neighborly — “We embrace everyone as neighbors, inviting all to join. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer, you’re part of the Danville family.”

• Optimistic and forward looking — “We’re excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for all of us.”

• Enthusiastic and supportive — “We’re here to cheer you on, support your progress, and be your biggest fans. The City of Danville is your biggest cheerleader.”

• Genuine and down to earth — “Here, you’ll find honest, friendly people who are eager to connect.”

Symbolized by a house, a bridge, and the gentle flow of the Dan River, the brand logo encapsulates the essence of Danville’s identity — a place where all are welcomed, unified, and nourished by the currents of hope and possibility.

In addition to the brand logo, a new City seal has been created for official local government documents. The new seal plays off the brand logo, with timeless, natural elements such as the sun, bridge, and river. It is the first seal redesign since being introduced in 1957. That seal

highlighted industries and crops that do not identify with the present community.

The creative process kicked off in the fall of 2022 when the City of Danville contracted with Destination by Design, a firm comprised of experienced local government planners, engineers, urban designers, and communication experts based in Boone, N.C.

Working under the guidance of a steering committee that consisted of local design and marketing professionals, Destination by Design launched the effort with a strong research and community engagement effort that included site visits, stakeholder interviews and a community-wide survey. Armed with that research data, the company proceeded to develop a strategy to define and describe what is authentic, ownable, and distinct about Danville.

As the dust settles on this historic unveiling, citizens of Danville can anticipate the brand’s presence weaving its way through the fabric of their community in the weeks ahead. It is a testament to the power of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring promise of home.

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5 Open

10 Article for sale

14 Sharpen

15 Small breads

16 6th month (Jewish calendar)

17 Small particle

18 Blot (2 wds.)

19 Farm building

20 Prince’s sovereignty

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50

53 Inadequate

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57 Body of water

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61 Toy

63 Synthetic narcotic

69 Suggest

70 Jeweled headdress

71 After awhile

72 College head

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11 Auf Wiedersehen

12 Movie “King”

13 Irregular

21 Calorie

22 Chop

27 Secondary

28 “Mister” (German)

29 Demonstration

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Confessions of a 30 Something Godzilla - The Underdog

BY LEE VOGLER

“Oh no, they say, he’s got to go Go go Godzilla, yeah Oh no, there goes Tokyo Go go Godzilla, yeah” -Blue Oyster Cult song Godzilla

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a fan of Godzilla. As a kid, I searched for every VHS tape at the local video store (remember those days?) that I could find. If a Godzillathon was going to be on the TNT channel, it was an event to schedule my weekend around. I had all the toys. I had the books. If it was related to Godzilla, I wanted it.

Godzilla has been a pop culture icon around the world for longer than I’ve been alive, but for most of my life, he’s been viewed in America as somewhat

come later with miniature tanks and flying saucers sharing screen time with a more muppet-like Godzilla.

In the last decade, however, things

films, teaming Godzilla up with fellow screen titan, King Kong. And earlier this year, I watched with joy as a Japanese-produced movie, Godzilla Minus One, took home an Oscar, topping Mission: Impossible and others. (My kids were sitting on the couch next to me with Godzilla toys in tow)

That moment was special for me for many reasons. One, my 30+ year love of this radioactive dinosaur is shared by my kids, and gives us something we can enjoy together. But also, watching this 70-year-old franchise finally be recognized by the “Hollywood elite” was gratifying. I’ve always had an affinity to root for the underdog. And as strange as it sounds, this fire breathing giant has often been

The Grey Lady

BY ROBIN MARCATO PHOTO COURTESY OF VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

It’s April, and that means spring. And for flower lovers, it means the annual Virginia Historic Garden Week. For nearly 100 years, garden clubs celebrate this cherished tradition by showcasing the beauty of Virginia’s historic homes and gardens.

In the region, we have a number of houses that have beautiful gardens, but one of our favorites is in Martinsville. It’s beloved for multiple reasons, but we love the way flowers and greenery appear to be built into the design of the house.

The John Waddey Carter House was built in 1896 and designed by George F. Barber. With an impressive two-story tower and a one-story wrap-around porch, it was designed to illustrate the importance, wealth, and social status of the owners. Known locally as “The Grey Lady”, the home is as magnificent today as it would have been in 1896.

The other reason we find the building fascinating is because there is a home on West Main in Danville

that looks very similar. Same two-story tower and one-story wrap-around porch, with many of the same elegant features. These two buildings are not exact copies, but to the average layman, they might appear to be. But you must be wondering: why would one architect design such similar buildings for prominent local businessmen? Wouldn’t having a replicate of your house one town over diminish your social standing?

Interestingly, the architect likely never met either owner. The basic design of the house was from a mailorder catalog.

This will probably inspire thoughts of the Sears “kit homes” that dominated the early part of the 20th Century. But Sears sold the design and the pre-cut materials to build the house. George Barber just sold the designs.

Barber didn’t invent selling architectural plans via mail order, but his designs were incredibly popular and he ran his mail order business for more than a decade. His houses were lavish, elegant, and prized by the upper class. And unlike other mail order architects, Barber was always willing to make small changes to his designs, per the customer’s request.

Between his personal touch and the beautifully designed homes, Barber dominated the industry. As the May 5th, 1896 edition of the Tennessee Morning Tribune noted, “…this firm occupies the proud position of being the largest producer of architectural plans and designs in the world.” However, although Barber sold upwards of an estimated 20,000 designs in his lifetime, his willingness to alter plans slightly for the buyer makes identifying those homes difficult. For instance, Magnolia Manor in Chatham has long been thought to be a Barber design as was the (now demolished) Caretaker’s Cottage in Green Hill Cemetery.

Do you think you have a Barber home? Let us know.

Paws for a Cause

WRITTEN BY PAULETTE DEAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY

Last week, I was in a doctor’s waiting room. A man stood in front of me and showed me pictures of a dog that they had had for eleven years. The pictures were both heartwarming and heartbreaking; they were taken during the last few moments of the dog’s life as his family was saying goodbye to their beloved member.

While some people provide perfect homes, others provide adequate homes, and others provide less-thanadequate homes. The law in Virginia is quite specific about the responsibilities of the owners to their animals.

There are two basic responsibilities not mentioned in the Code; however, my guess is that every shelter employee would agree with them. Of course, we wish that a law could be passed that required the spaying and neutering of each dog and cat!

First, it would be nice if the owner of every dog vaccinated the dog against parovirus. This is a deadly disease that is easily preventable. Shelters would have a much easier time if mother dogs had been vaccinated. The immunity is passed through her milk. Puppies are always more at risk than adult dogs and if they had not been nursed by a

DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY

MEET OLLIE

This 5 year-old boy came to us when his owner decided he had too many animals. Ollie is a sweetheart!

vaccinated mother, the risk is always greater.

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that is spread from dog to dog by contact (whether direct or indirectly) through feces. Mortality

in untreated cases is approximately 90%. The symptoms include lethargy, loss of weight and appetite, vomiting, and then diarrhea (usually bloody). The virus can live in the ground for about six months.

Treatment is expensive and not guaranteed to have a positive outcome. When puppies or dogs come into a shelter, they may not have any symptoms and can lead to an outbreak of parvovirus.

The feline version is panleukopenia, and it is just as deadly for cats.

An outbreak of either canine or feline parvovirus is every shelter’s nightmare.

Second, it would be nice if the owner of every dog and cat microchipped them and then keeps the registration current.

The best way to reunite a stray dog or cat that you find is to take them to the public shelter in that locality. Relying solely on social media is not a good idea. Shelters scan for microchips and then call the company to get the owner’s name and contact information. We just absolutely love it when a microchip is found, the registration is current, and the animal goes home!