Evince Magazine December 09 by Evince Magazine

Evince Magazine

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December 2009

December Contents 2 3

Editor’s Note

Cover Story - Santa & Mrs. Claus Find Warmer Weather in Southern Virginia by Joyce Wilburn

4 Enjoy Seven Stops on the Annual Holiday Tour of Homes by Joyce Wilburn 5 She Said He Said / All I want for Christmas is... by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

Editor’s Note Dear Readers:

You are holding in your hands one of the best presents you will receive this holiday season. If you don’t believe me, start reading. Linda Lemery’s Reflecting Forward: Holiday Giveaways will inspire you with a novel approach to exchanging presents and strengthening friendships. Kim Walker’s practical advice in This Holiday Season Spend Money Wisely should be cut out and hung on your refrigerator. Joann Verostko tells you about Simplifying Christmas with a Good Book and all the books are free! If you’re looking for holiday fun, Enjoy Seven Stops on the Holiday Tour of Homes is a must-read and so is Santa Opens Workshop in Downtown Danville by Liz Sater. Did you know Santa and Mrs. Claus spend most of the year in the Danville area? Read the cover story and find out more about the everyday lives of these celebrities. Of course, one of the best parts of the season is the special music. Check out an important concert in Mary Franklin’s A Classic Christmas Musical Gift. This and every issue is a gift to you from all the talented people whose names are listed to the right of this column and all the advertisers who support this free monthly publication. Thank you for your continued loyalty and the kind remarks you share with me and others each month. You are a gift to us, because without the 10,000 readers who pick up Evince each month, our work would be in vain. Sincerely,

6 A Classic Christmas Musical Gift by Mary Franklin Azariah’s: A New Restaurant with a History by Larry G. Aaron 7 Second Thoughts / Paper or Plastic by Kim Clifton

Ve ince THE

OICE FOR FAMILY

Publisher

Andrew Scott Brooks Editor Joyce Wilburn joyce@evincemagazine.com (434.799.3160) Associate Editor Larry G. Aaron larry.aaron@gmail.com (434.792.8695) Contributing Writers

Linda Aagaard, Larry G. Aaron, Gayle Barts, Kim Clifton, Mary Franklin, Esther Goins, Dena Hill, Linda Lemery, Larry Oldham, Liz Sater, Joann Verostko, Kim Walker, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams

Business Manager Paul Seiple paul@evincemagazine.com (434.483.4343) Sales Manager Larry Oldham larry@evincemagazine.com (434.728.3713)

8 December Calendar 10 Simplifying Christmas with a Good Book by Joann Verostko

Sales Associates Kim Demont (434.836.1247) kim@evincemagazine.com

15 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Esther Goins

Robert Burns (434.483.4343) robert@evincemagazine.com

Reflecting Forward / Holiday Giveaways by Linda Lemery

Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden) Graphic Designer Kim Demont

Enjoy Corks and Forks by Gayle Barts

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16 Around the Table / Don’t Put Off ‘Til Tomorrow What You Can Bake Today by Annelle Williams 18 Santa Opens Workshop in Downtown Danville by Liz Sater 19 75 Tips on Making Your Dollars Go Further by Larry Oldham 21 Buy a Calendar – Save a Puppy –Win a Prize by Linda Aagaard This Holiday Season Spend Money Wisely by Kim Walker

1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW

Editorial Policies:

eVince is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute eVince free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

EVINCE Magazine

On the Cover: Photo of Gracie George, Santa, Abby George, and Mrs. Claus by Carol Melton of Melton Photography. See story on page 3.

Meet Some of Our Writers

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

For Subscriptions, call 434.799.3160. We now accept Visa, MC, and Discover for ad payments Esther Goins is a retired English teacher/librarian and a 35-year veteran of the DanvillePittsylvania County Public School System. She is a Book Buddy at Woodberry Hills School.

Linda Aagaard is a loyal supporter of Chatham First and the former bookseller at Chatham Books.

Kimberly Walker is the financial literacy counselor and homeownership coordinator for Danville Redevelopment and Housing Authority. If you need assistance, contact her at 434.793.1305.

Gayle Barts is a bookkeeper for her husband’s farming operation and a part-time legislative assistant for Senator Robert Hurt.

Deadline for submission of January stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18. Submit stories and articles to: joyce@evincemagazine.com. Submit calendar items to: kim@evincemagazine.com. For ad information contact a sales associate or sales manager above.

Evince Magazine

It was a hot August afternoon and I was convinced that the heat was playing tricks on my eyes. I saw Santa and Mrs. Claus, dressed in lightweight red-and-white outfits, walking across the parking lot at Coleman MarketPlace! Furthermore, they had just left a white car that sported a My Other Car Is a Sleigh bumper sticker. I dismissed the close encounter as a fluke until a few weeks later, when I bumped into the jolly twosome at Main Street Coffee Emporium where Mrs. Claus was distributing candy canes. Silly me--I didn’t know that the celebrity couple, who are always the guests of honor in local Christmas parades, enjoy time away from the North Pole by living in Chatham and frequenting Danville. Yes, even legends have ordinary lives like the rest of us. For Mr. and Mrs. Claus (who sometimes use the pseudonyms Carl and Anne Burke), it was love at first sight over 51 years ago. On their first date, the two Elon College students went to a Christmas party on lucky Friday the 13th in December, 1957 and married less than five months later. Carl eventually earned a master’s degree from Randolph Macon Women’s College and Anne received a bachelor’s degree from Averett University. “After our fourth child went to kindergarten I finally got my degree 17 years after leaving Elon,” says the former church organist and native of Turberville and then adds, “We moved to Chatham in 1966 and in 1975 I began teaching music in the Pittsylvania County Schools.” Meanwhile, Carl was chair of the science department at Hargrave until he retired in 1999. “I bought myself a Harley as a retirement gift because we both wanted to ride,” explains Santa’s carbon copy. Unfortunately, four days into the retirement there was an accident with the motorcycle and Carl’s foot, arm, and two ribs were broken. “Because my arm hurt, I didn’t shave and that’s when people started telling me I looked like Santa,” he says obviously enjoying the comparison. That set the stage

photo by Carol Melton

Santa & Mrs. Claus Find Warmer Weather in Southern Virginia by Joyce Wilburn

for a new avocation. Then another event nurtured their evolution into the season’s most famous couple. The organizers of Christmas in Chatham gave Anne a red dress to wear during the weekend of celebrations. The red clothing, their naturally white hair, a love of Christmas and an affection for children melded and the Claus couple materialized. Although raising four children and having 13 grandchildren and two great-grand children has provided plenty of life experience for dealing with youngsters, the two have master’s degrees in Clausology from the International

University of Santa Claus and are members of seven other Santa-related organizations. Carl is quick to acknowledge that he and Anne are a team. “When children are afraid of me, they will sometimes come to her because of her grandmother image,” he says, realizing that his height, husky build, and deep voice can be scary. Anne explains, “While I’m distracting the child, Santa will walk around behind us without the child noticing and then the memory is captured by the camera without any fuss.” The two have many special memories from the past decade. Once, while

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working with the Children’s Miracle Network, Santa was approached by a little girl shaking her finger at him and saying, “Don’t you bring my brother nothing. He’s mean and he’s driving my mother crazy.” Stifling his laughter, Santa watched and silently agreed with the child when her brother came into view. “No one, however, is on the naughty list,” he quickly adds, “because there’s hope for all.” Not wanting to give false hope to children with difficult requests like “I want to live with daddy” the two pledge to pray for them. No other promises are made especially about particular gifts. ”We tell them that all presents must be approved by mom and dad,” says Santa and the other half of the Claus team nods in agreement. The Claus couple has been working well together for 51 years and they have about as many special events to attend in the weeks before Christmas. If for some strange reason, you miss them, don’t worry. This merry couple prefers the warm climate of Southern Virginia to the North Pole every day and Christmas can be any day of the year. n The Chatham Christmas Parade is Saturday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. on Main Street. n Santa & Mrs. Claus will be at Lou’s Antique Mall, 225 Main Street in Danville, on Saturday, December 5, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. n There will be a Santa Workshop in Danville’s Masonic Building on Main Street on Saturday, Dec. 12, from noon until 4 p.m. n Danville’s Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade is Saturday, December 12, starting at 6 p.m. in downtown Danville. See www.visitdanville.com. n Santa & Mrs. Claus are members of Santa-America, a nationwide non-profit volunteer network of Santas and elves bringing love, hope, and joy to children in hospice care and youngsters with a chronic pediatric illness or suffering from post traumatic stress. Visit www.Santa-America.org or email cburke@mindspring.com.

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December 2009

our Victorian homes, free punch and cookies, two places of worship, and an adaptive reuse of an old house. Sing that to the tune of The 12 Days of Christmas and you’ll remember all the seven stops on the Danville Historical Society’s 37th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes—the Streetcar Tour—scheduled for the second weekend in December. If you aren’t a singer, there is an easier way to enjoy this insider’s look into the Victorian mansions and places of worship in Danville’s Historic District. Jump on the free trolley, which will transport tour-takers the entire route. Trolley stops are: • 349 West Main Street – the home of Bob and Linda Weir on the corner of Virginia Avenue and West Main. • 108 West Main Street – the home of the Danville Yoga Meditation & Wellness Center. It shows the adaptive reuse of an old building. • 1031 Main Street –the1896 home of Jeff and Cyndee Perdue Moore located across from the Wednesday Club. • Temple Beth Sholom on Sutherlin Avenue. Hanukkah items will be displayed. • First Baptist Church at 871 Main Street. Parishioners will be

Society’s preservation projects. Tickets make wonderful gifts to yourself and your friends.

840 Main Street

The Holiday Tour of Homes is on Saturday, December 12, and Sunday, December 13, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Tickets can be purchased at each home on the day of the tour or in advance at the Visitors’ Center, 645 River Park Road, The Gingerbread House on Memorial Drive, and The Invitation Destination on Main Street. Sites can be visited in any order. For more information, call 434.770.1974 or visit www.danvillehistoricalsociety.org.

Enjoy Seven Stops on the Annual Holiday Tour of Homes by Joyce Wilburn

serving free refreshments. • 840 Main Street –the 1902 Queen Anne style house owned by Dan and Sarah Latham adjacent to the YMCA. • Unit 1B in The Burton on Bridge Street owned by Tony and Kate Gioia in the Warehouse District near the Community Market. • Other bonus stops that walkers can enjoy include the

outdoor decorations on The Lawn at Averett University’s Student Center on Woodland Avenue; the Chrismons Tree at Ascension Lutheran Church; The Langhorne House, and the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. Whether you walk, ride the trolley, or drive your car, plan to participate. Not only will you have an afternoon of fun, the $20 cost benefits Danville Historical

1031 Main Street

Evince Magazine

She Said by Dena Hill All I want for Christmas is... We should all learn a lesson from your youngest son, Seth, because he is a master at rolling with the punches. If we ask him what he wants for dinner, he says, “It doesn’t matter.” If we ask what he wants for Christmas, he replies that he hasn’t really thought about it. If we invite him to visit, he will come if he can. And get this: when we ask if he needs money, he says he has enough. Are you sure he’s your son? When I ask you what you want for Christmas, you smile and say, “Everything.” You start thinking about Christmas in September and your list of suggestions is complete around Labor Day. The real Labor Day, though, is finding all of the impossible trinkets you’ve requested. Unlike Seth, if I ask what you want for dinner, you give picky a whole new meaning. Food is either too hot, too cold, not seasoned enough, burned, or simply not what you wanted. And my favorite remark from you is, “Didn’t I just see this yesterday?” It took me awhile to realize that you’re serious about never eating leftovers. Leftovers are a godsend, when I come home from work at 7:00 p.m. and you’re waiting for dinner. I have a great idea--just for the month of December, how about if you do all of the meal planning, shopping, cooking, dishwashing, and laundry? I’ll assume your pose in the recliner-reading, relaxing, or snapping my fingers for something to eat and drink. If you don’t like doing it for one month, we could always make it a New Year’s resolution that will last a whole year.

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he Said by Larry Oldham I will admit that my son, Seth, is not the proverbial chip off the old block. I think Christmas should be everyday in the year for me. I usually get what I want all year long except maybe for dinner. I do like odd things and probably don’t fit in the list of whatever normal is. I admit that I’m picky about food. I do enjoy getting my way and I go into my man cave sometimes when I don’t. I do not like leftovers, but I can’t ever remember not offering to take you out to dinner whether you are early or late from school. I would never ask you to make dinner for me, unless I am sick or you are cooking for yourself anyway. Now about those Christmas presents. Did I give you my list yet? I thought I gave it to you in July. This plan of yours about my doing all of the work in a given month or year is one we may have to discuss. I will do the same for you that I did for my ex-wife and hire a maid. Of course, when the maid arrived at the door, my exwife wouldn’t let her in because the house was too dirty. It’s the same with yard work. I will hire a yard man and then both of us can sit on the porch, sip tea, hold hands, and point him in the right direction when he misses a spot. Anyway, New Year’s is a long way off and I’m still trying to digest the notion that I’m hard to please at Christmas. Just go to Sounds Unlimited and tell them Larry sent you. They can certainly please me with Christmas gifts, but will probably be at a loss when it comes to making my dinner. Merry Christmas, darling.

She said He said

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

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December 2009

A Classic Christmas Musical Gift by Mary Franklin

Azariah’s: A New Restaurant with a History by Larry G. Aaron

There are always joyful sounds associated with Christmas and the most exciting ones are the sparkling notes of Christmas music, especially when it is presented by a live 60-piece orchestra. On the second Saturday of December, the Danville Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Charles G. Ellis, will present the 2009 holiday concert, A Classic Christmas. Highlighting the evening are Haydn’s Toy Symphony, selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet, Davis’s Still Nacht, and Berlin’s White Christmas. It will be a night of classical and traditional selections with the Symphony Chorus adding their voices to several pieces. (You might even be invited to sing along.) Admission to DSO concerts is always free and open to the public, but at Christmas, attendees are asked to help the community in a special way. Eight years ago, the DSO started the tradition of helping the needy. The volunteer musicians hope you will bring at least two non-perishable food items or cash donations for God’s Store House. Last year an amazing 2,000 pounds of canned goods were donated along with a significant amount of cash. The DSO hopes there will be an encore of that this year. A Classic Christmas will be held in the George Washington High School auditorium, 701 Broad Street. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with the downbeat at 8:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.danvillesymphony.net.

Azariah’s Olde Storehouse seems an unusual name for a restaurant until you realize that it reflects centuries of history. Located in Yanceyville, North Carolina, Azariah’s features an interesting menu along with a country store on the side in the town’s oldest commercial building. Charlie and Christina Ward never planned it that way; it was more a twist of fate. The two software engineers designed record-keeping programs, but after their company moved from Massachusetts to its Caswell County location, both lost their jobs due to downsizing. They had always thought about opening a country store after retirement. It just happened sooner than they had planned. The couple opened the restaurant nine months ago after working six months to repair and refurbish the building. Their service began with breakfast and lunch and now they also offer dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. The building on West Main Street dates back to 1817— the year that the fifth U.S. President, James Monroe, took office. Built by a local lawyer and businessman, Azariah’s features an original set of beautifully restored double doors between the country store and the restaurant and an original fireplace and mantel. The countertop at the cash

register is the original bar top from a tavern owned by N. P. Oliver during the Civil War. His name is preserved on the wall and on bar tabs from that era written on the wall. In 1855, W.H. Thompson began publishing the Caswell News in the building and in 1906 those presses were printing the Caswell County Democrat published by W.C. Martin until 1942. During the term of President Woodrow Wilson the building housed the Yanceyville Post Office and during World War II it functioned as the Office of Price Administration (OPA). From the mid-20th century onward, it housed a dress shop, laundry, attorney’s office, and Brown’s Seafood Restaurant. Today Azariah’s Olde Storehouse is a restaurant once again featuring succulent entrees including salmon, steaks, chicken, and a special dish, shrimp ’n grits. Sandwiches include The Cuban, Salmon BLT, and Sloppy Joe. The restaurant has a variety of sides, appetizers, and desserts you’ll want to devour--especially their homemade peach ice cream. I loved it. Of course, everything at Azariah’s is homemade and prepared on site. The country store selections are just as appealing as the menu. Choices for take-home include Stonewall Kitchen’s

Strawberry Apple Rhubarb Jam, and Chocolate Chip Pancake Waffle Mix. The store has an ample assortment of Barefoot Contessa items, Green Mountain Coffee, Lindt Truffles, and Ghirardelli Chocolates. Forge Mountain brands feature preserves, jellies, and cinnamon apple syrup. If that isn’t enough, other items include crafts by North Carolina artists. And the list goes on and on. I can tell you from experience: the venue is inviting; Charlie and Christina are a lovely couple; the wait staff is superb; and the cook is real good.

n Azariah’s Olde Storehouse is located at 28 West Main St in Yanceyville. n For more information, visit www.azariahstore.com or call 336.694.6016.

Evince Magazine

Paper or Plastic Paper or plastic. Cashiers have been asking customers this same thing for years, but now there’s no correct reply. It reminds me of the old “are you still beating your wife” question. Either answer is wrong. Step aside, Shamu. Saving just the whales doesn’t cut it anymore, because the whole planet has to be rescued. Environmentalists, who’ve known this all along, must feel somewhat vindicated. Finally, it’s hip to be square. Moreover, going green has become quite stylish. I used to only worry if my handbag matched my outfit. Now I’ve got to worry if my shopping bag matches the store. I know the fashion police will cite me for carrying a summer purse with a wool suit, but I wonder what they’d say if I took a Food Lion bag into Wal-Mart. I haven’t been brave enough to try it, though, because I usually forget to take the bags inside in the first place. When I do remember, I’m never sure how many I’ll need.

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I don’t know which is worse. Coming up short and feeling stupid…or standing there with extras balled up in my armpits… and looking stupid. Environmentally-correct or not, most shopping bags are easily identified by logos, but not always. There are two plain ones that people can spot a mile away. One of these bags you want to be seen with and the other one…you don’t. If you’re sporting a forestgreen bag, chances are you’ve bought one of Kathy Snelling’s legendary cheese balls from The Ginger Bread House. But, carry around a blue one, and people will know your holiday spirits are coming from a bottle, since

brown-bagging comes in navy these days. Paper or plastic. That question’s really not about the bags, anymore. It’s better suited to find out how I’m going to pay for my stuff, not how I’m going carry it home. Don’t get me wrong. Saving both the whales and the world is good. But, I suspect this new social consciousness has made businesses a little greener, too, because now the storeowners aren’t buying the sacks; the customers are. Then again, I doubt anyone will ever let that cat out of the bag.

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December 2009

December Calendar

Ongoing

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

Through December 20

Museum Exhibits. Danville Art League Juried Show; Danville to a Tee. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

Through December 22

Classic Crafts Exhibit – Works include ceramics, glass, sculpture, wall hangings, wooden bowls, jewelry and baskets. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Through January 4

Exhibit Engineer It– Explore the fun and creative sides of engineering. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

December 1

Intermediate Woodturning. 6-8:30 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center– 276.632.0066.

December 1 (thru 5)

Festival of Trees Exhibit – 5:308:30 pm. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

December 1 (thru 18)

Santa Calling – Santa makes telephone calls from the North Pole to local children (Ages 3-8). Registration 12/1-15. Calling 12/18 - 5:30-8 pm. 434.797.8848. Teacher Angel Tree Donations – Help Danville City and Pittsylvania County educators provide basic classroom supplies to needy students. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. 434.766.6774.

December 1 (thru 29)

Fitness for Older Adults, Ladies & ABSolute Fitness. Tues/Thur, 9–11 am; Ladies 10 am–12 pm; ABSolute Fitness 10:30-11:30 am. City Armory. 434.797.8848. West African Dance & Drumming Class – Tues 10:30 am–12 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. African Dance Ensemble –Learn the art of African Dance. Tues 6-7:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

December 2 (thru 30)

Yoga Classes. Wed. 9-10 am. YWCA – 434.792.1522.

December 2 (thru 31)

Live Bands & DJ Music. Wed-Sat. Back to Bogies – 434.791.3444.

December 3

Painting & Woodworking Class – Intermediate decorative painting - 10 am-12 pm; Fine woodworking lab - 6-8:30 pm. SVAC Martinsville 276.632.0066. Alzheimer’s Presentation – Reverse Mortgage Can Be Your Answer in Difficult Economic Times. 12–1 pm. Craghead Street. 434.792.3700 x30.

December 3 (thru 5)

Christmas in Historic Chatham – Weaving Our Story - Crafts, vendors, Chatham Christmas Parade, lantern lighting, concerts, Festival of Carols, the Yule Log Ceremony ending with an Open Mic evening and more. 434.432.7721.

December 3 (thru 17)

57 Express Bluegrass Concert. Thursdays 7 pm. Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115 x 1

December 3 (thru 31)

Curiosity Corner – Make crafts, play games and have fun. Ages 3-5. 9:30 am-12:30 pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.799.6564. Aquacize – Aerobic workout that is not tough on knees, ankles and other joints. Thursdays 8:15 am. YWCA. 434.797.8848

December 4

Holiday Open House – Decorate natural trees outside the museum, scavenger hunt, refreshments, puppet skits, choirs, reading of The Dinosaurs Night Before Christmas with Santa and the lighting of the live Christmas trees. 3-6 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4141. First Friday Art Walk – Visit the studios, meet the artists and find handcrafted items at great prices.

5–7 pm. Studio 107, Martinsville. 276.632.3221. Candlelight Tour – Tour the Sutherlin Mansion with its holiday finery. Enjoy punch, hot mulled cider and Christmas cookies. 5:30-7:30 pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History – 434.793.5644. Luminary Trail Walk. 6-8 pm. Dan Daniel Memorial Park. 434.799.5215. Soundcheck Christmas– Poetry reading, comedy, singers, and musicians are all welcome. 7–10 pm. Community Center, Chatham – 434.432.3115

December 4 & 5

Holiday Craft Fair – One-of-a-kind gifts crafted in wood, glass, pottery, fiber, and many other media. 5 pm/10 am. SVAC – 276.632.0066.

December 4 (thru 6)

The Dan River Follies. 7:30 pm/3 pm. Mt. Hermon Courtyard. 434.432.2124. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. 7:30 or 2:30 pm. Theatre Guild of Rockingham Co., Reidsville – 336.627.0228.

December 5

Victorian Holiday – Victorian holiday crafts, storytelling and Christmas cookies. Ages 4-8. 10 am-12 pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History – 434.793.5644. DRBA’s First Saturday – Fieldale Trail Hike. 10 am. 276.647.3274. www.danriver.org. Caswell County Christmas Parade. 10 am. Yanceyville. 336.694.6106. Mistletoe Float. 10 am. 336.601.4472. www.danriver.org. Bob Ross Painting Class – Frozen Beauty Vignette. 10:30 am–3:30 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Story Time with Mrs. Amy – Ages 2-10. 11 am. LifeWay Christian Store, Coleman Center – 434.797.3690. Chatham Christmas Parade. 11 am. Main Street. 434.432.4221. Brunswick Stew Fundraiser. 12-2:30 pm. American Legion Dan River Post 1097 – 434.793.7531.

December 1 (thru 30)

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W T 2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30 31

F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus. See story page 3. South Boston Christmas Parade. 5 pm. 434.575.4208. Christmas Parade. 6 pm. Martinsville Uptown. 276.632.5688. Twisted Local Music Concert –6 pm. Martinsville Uptown – 276.632.5688. Christmas with The Embers. Kirby Theatre, Roxboro - See ad page December 5 & 12 Breakfast with Santa – Santa will visit with children during their meal and will be available for photos. 8:30 am. Yancey House Restaurant – 336.694.4225. Fused Glass Plate for Santa Workshop. Ages 6+. 9 am-1 pm. 276.632.5688. www.martinsvilleuptown.com. Pictures of Santa. 10 am. SPCA of Martinsville & Henry County – www.spcamhc.org.

December 6

Classic Movies Matinee – Deep in My Heart. 2 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

December 8

Photography Club. 6:30-7:45 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Silver Bells & Diamonds – A Yuletide Rock n’ Roll Revue. 8 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – 336.694.4591

December 8 & 22

Polliwogs & Science Stars. 12/8 -Learn about states of matter while experimenting with ice. Make colorful snowflakes. 12/22 – Make festive holiday ornaments using a few unexpected ingredients. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

December 10

Bob Ross Painting Workshop – Frozen Winter Vignette. 10 am– 3:30 pm. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221 Alzheimer’s Presentation – Caregiver 101. 12–1 pm. Craghead Street. – 434.792.3700 x30. Creating Your Own Winter Decor. 6-7:30 pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215. Tell Me a Story, Santa Claus – An evening with stories, refreshments and Santa Claus. 6-8 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

December 11

Koates Kids Pre-School Program – Different themed activities introduced each week through various events, games, arts, and crafts. Ages 3-5. T/W 9:30 am–12:30 pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848. Chicks w/ Sticks – knitting & crocheting class. T/Th 11:30 am1 pm. City Armory. 434.797.8848.

Virginia Master Naturalists – Dan River Chapter Training Course registration deadline. 434.799.5215 or 434.799.6558.

December 11 & 12

O Come All Ye Faithful – A Creative Worship Christmas Experience. 7 pm. Cornerstone Church of Christ. 434.432.4300.

December 2 & 16

Fetch! Lab. 12/2 – Learn about energy and build a roller coaster. 12/16 – Build a suspension bridge out of cardboard that won’t collapse under the weight of a pile of books. Ages 8–12. 3:45– 4:45 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

December 2009

December 12

This photo of the Danville Christmas Parade was taken in the late 1950s.

Hanukkah Celebration. 11 am12 pm. Danville Public Library – 434.799.5195 x6. Ballou Park Tree Lighting. 4:30-5:30 pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5215.

Evince Magazine Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade – Sounds of the Season. 6 pm. Downtown Danville. www.visitdanville.com. Gospel Expo – Featuring Prophetess Cynthia Jones and The Divine Sisters. 7 pm. The Rives Theater, Martinsville. 434.793.1990. Matt Herskowitz Trio Concert. 7:30 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339. A Classic Christmas Concert – See story page 6. Santa Workshop - See story page 18.

December 12 & 13

Holiday Walking Tour - See ad on page 16 and story page 4.

December 13

Gretna Christmas Parade. Main Street. 434.656.6572. Roanoke Symphony Orchestra & Chorus Holiday Pops. 7-9 pm. Martinsville HS Auditorium. 276.632.3221.

December 14

Mariachi Band. 6:30-9:30 pm. Los Tres Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 434.792.0601.

December 14 (thru 23)

Art, Photography & Craft Show – View the creative works of the students in art programs of Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Times vary. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

December 15

Christmas Fundraising Luncheon. 12 pm. South Boston Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History – 434.572.9200. Sandi Patty’s Christmas Show Concert. 7:30 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.

December 16

A Christmas Carol. Youth series, Grades K-5. 10 am & 12:30 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – www.ccfta.org. Christmas Remembered – Senior Citizens sharing tales, crafts & games. 10:30 am-12 pm. Danville Public Library Auditorium – 434.799.5195 x6. Christmas Recital. 6–7 pm. Danville Public Library Auditorium – 434.799.5195 x6.

December 17

Sky Watchers – Look at the Andromeda Galaxy and examine the constellations Andromeda and Taurus. Also focus on the planet Jupiter and the open cluster of stars, the Pleiades. Nightfall. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

December 18

Just Everyday Women, Walking by Faith. 11 am–1 pm. Mary’s Diner. 434.836.2660 or 434.793.8140. Liberty University Snowflex Ski/ Tubing Trip. 4-9 pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215.

December 18 (thru 20)

The Jungle Book. 7 pm/2 pm. Danville Community Market. 434.793.4636 or 434.799.5214.

December 19

Kids’ Jewelry Making. 10 am-12 pm. SVAC 276.632.0066. Roxboro Christmas Parade - See ad page 15. Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffman – Live MET HD broadcast. 1 pm. The Danville Stadium Cinemas – 434.792.9885.

December 21 (thru 23)

Santa’s Workshop See story page 18.

December 21 (thru 30)

Winter Break Outdoor Camp I & II – Hiking, team building, games, camping essentials, outdoor cooking, map and compass, GPS, indoor archery, indoor rock climbing and more. Ages 9-14. 9 am-5 pm. Ballou Nature Center 434.799.5215.

December 24

Christmas Pool Party – Food, drink, disco music and swimming. Age 18+. 7-9 pm. YWCA – 434.792.1522.

December 28

Kwanzaa Celebration. 6-7 pm. Danville Public Library, Children’s Department – 434.799.5195 x6.

December 29

Kwanzaa Celebration – Learn the seven principles of Kwanzaa and spend an evening celebrating the holiday season. 5:30 pm. Squire Recreation Center. 434.797.8848.

December 31

New Year’s Eve Extravaganza. Back to Bogies. See ad page 22.

Upcoming Events January 10

Trio con Brio Copenhagen - See ad page 9.

January 15

Corks and Forks - See story page 15.

January 16

Having Our Say. Kirby Theatre, Roxboro - See ad page 15.

Page 9

Page 10

December 2009

ife can be hectic and it seems that the Christmas season is doubly so. A time of joy ends up being a period of stress. The deeper meaning of the holiday is sometimes lost amidst shopping trips, parties and family gatherings. One simple way to put meaning back into the holiday and slow things down a bit is to read a Christmas story aloud. This can be as simple as sharing A Visit from St. Nicholas with the kids before bedtime or as complicated as a marathon reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with appropriate decorations and refreshments and plenty of guests willing to narrate. Keep it simple: choose a story, gather a few people together, start reading. Make sure both young and old are given an opportunity to read and to listen. If you choose a lengthy story, have some refreshments; it will help the restless sit still. Here are just a few of the many collections that can

n A New Christmas Treasury, edited by Jack Newcombe, contains stories by a variety of authors such as: Willa Cather, Robert Frost, Laura Ingalls Wilder, P. D. James, Peter Mathiessen, and James Thurber. n The Great American Christmas Book, compiled and edited by Aaron Sclechter, has stories, recipes, crafts, and other delights including Francis P. Church’s Yes, Virginia There Is a Santa Claus.

Simplifying Christmas with a Good Book by Joann Verostko

be found at the Danville Public Library: n Christmas in the South, edited by Charline R. McCord and Judy H. Tucker, offers a selection of stories with a Southern theme and setting

that might be appropriate for y’all. n A Cup of Comfort for Christmas, edited by Colleen Sell, promises stories that celebrate the warmth, joy and wonder of the holiday.

This is a tiny sampling of the plethora of Christmas books available at the Danville Public Library in a special display and on the shelves. Celebrate the season with a good book. It’s our gift to the community. The DPL, 511 Patton Street, is open Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 434.799.5195 or visit www.danvillelibrary.org.

Evince Magazine Page 11

Page 12

December 2009

Only 8 ShadySide Homesites Left! The New Farm House is located on Lot 2

(Shown on opposite page) $399,900.

Lot 1 1.21 acres

Our smallest lot. Ready to build on. Perfect for a retirement home all on one floor. We have great plans to suggest!

Waterfront Lots 28 & 29

Our last waterfront homesites. Ready to build on now. Your home will sit on hills with views across the pond. You own the property across the street to the water's edge. The most beautiful properties in ShadySide. $90,000 each.

Lot 24

2.24 acres Extremely private, huge heavily wooded, We'll clear your homesite and grade your drive. Only $50,000.

Lot 5 1.51 acres

Fronts on Seamster Road. Ready to build on now. $58,500.

Lot 7 1.49 acres

Beautiful corner lot with views of our top pond, tree lined with pear trees and crape myrtles. Ready to build on now. $60,000.

Lot 9 2.12 acres

One hundred years ago, this was where an old farm house once stood. 10 majestic oaks encircle the old homesite. This lot has a view of all of ShadySide. It is our most stately property, ready to build on now. $90,000.

Lot 16 1.87 acres (cul-de-sac) If you want peace and privacy, this is the place. At the end of the Lakeside Lane cul-de-sac with deep forestsinside and behind. This lot is ready to build on now. $55,000.

Buy Your Homesite Before 2010 and Take $5,000 Off! In ShadySide, the owners have built fine homes ranging from 2,500 sq. ft. to over 6,000 sq. ft. Our remaining 8 homesites have been prepared for building now. There is no neighborhood in the Danville market with homesites this fine at prices this low. Every owner in ShadySide looked all over Danville and saw how much more beautiful our properties are. You'll see the difference when you visit. Call Ed Carter, 434.489.8096

Visit our website at www.ShadySidenc.com

Evince Magazine Page 13

If You Want a Custom, High-Quality New Home, Our New Farm House is a Must See!

The Farm House n n n n n n n n n

n n n n

3 bedroom 2½ baths 9 rooms The world’s best screened porch (628 sq. ft.) Beautifully situated on 1.43 acres 10 ft. ceilings in every room 2,444 sq. ft. Lovely gathering room with marble fireplace LIvINg SPACE Separate dining room with french doors to (1st and 2nd floor) the screened wrap-around porch LIvINg AREA PORCHES LIvINg AREA Huge eat-in kitchen with 347 sq. ft. 840 sq. ft. 1ST FLOOR 2ND FLOOR • Granite countertops 1270 sq. ft. 1175 sq.ft. • Custom cabinets FIRST FLOOR PLAN • Stainless appliances SECOND FLOOR PLAN • Access to screened porch Master suite with large walk-in closet and fabulous tile bath! 24 x 28 oversize double garage Wonderful 12x18 Sun (TV) room The best children’s mud room From Danville: Take Rt. 86 South to NC, bear right at Carolina-Virginia Animal Hospital you’ve ever seen!

While downtown Danville is only 7 minutes away, you'll feel like Danville is 50 miles away. ShadySide is that quiet and serene.

2444 interior Sq. ft 820 sq. ft. of porches 672 sq. ft. of garage

3936 sq. ft. under roof Priced at $399, 900 with 3936 sq. ft. under roof - that’s only $101.60 per sq. ft. No one in Danville builds this quality on so much beautiful land for $101.60 per sq. ft!

onto historic Shady Grove Road. Proceed 2 miles to white fences on left. The Farm House is on the left at 1841 Shady grove Road.

For a Farm House tour or for a fabulous new home on a spectacular homesite in ShadySide call Ed Carter at 434.489.8096 or email: ed@cartermarketing.com

Visit our website at www.ShadySidenc.com

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December 2009

Evince Magazine Page 15 To encourage exceptional customer service, the Dan River Hospitality and Travel Committee of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and EVINCE would like to recognize those who give it. When you experience exceptional customer service, tell us about it in 300 words or less. Include your name and phone number. Email your story to joyce@evincemagazine.com. The chosen honoree will receive a small gift and a framed copy of the published story citing his/her exceptional service.

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Esther Goins

While my niece and I were hurriedly following a vehicle that carried a seriously ill relative to the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, I discovered I had failed to bring my insulin supply. Realizing that we had no idea when we would return to Danville, I told my niece that I would call my pharmacist the next morning to determine what could be done. She suggested that I call him at his home. After obtaining his number, I made the call to Jeff Rodden, owner and pharmacist at Commonwealth Pharmacy. He immediately accessed his computer and began searching for pharmacies along our route, while I informed him of mileages to certain towns. Realizing that due to the late night hour we needed to act quickly or find a 24-hour pharmacy, we decided to disconnect and to concentrate on Charlottesville only. After about 30 minutes of searching, Mr. Rodden found a pharmacy close to the hospital that was open 24 hours. Totally, he had been dealing with my situation for more than an hour. Much later that night, when I walked to the counter at a CVS pharmacy, the pharmacist greeted me with these words, “Ma’am, don’t ever leave your pharmacist. I have never talked with a more compassionate pharmacist in my life.” She was also impressed because Mr. Rodden had access to his pharmacy records from his home. She was voicing my thoughts. Words are insufficient to describe my gratitude to Jeff Rodden. For these reasons, I nominate Jeff Rodden, of Commonwealth Pharmacy, 949 Piney Forest Road, for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award.

Reflecting Forward Holiday Giveaways by Linda Lemery

This holiday season I’m going to give away some of the ornaments I’ve spent a lifetime collecting. I’m not just giving them to family -- I’m also giving them to friends. I’ve been collecting these holiday ornaments since I was a child. The white china bells, the Scandinavian straw people, the crocheted snowflakes: I remember getting these from Danish relatives, from family, from friends. My husband has some ornaments from his family. I’m not giving away his -- only mine. Why give them away? Why not keep them as heirlooms for the family? The answer lies in the fact that this year, I’ve come to realize and appreciate that the lines separating friends and family have blurred into one big network of support. Times of clarity like this often come when an individual or family has been under siege, be it by illness or loss or some other life event that forces family members to clear the decks of community obligations, to help them focus their energies on coping with a particular issue. One realization that comes out of such an experience is an imperative to simplify and to express appreciation in a tangible way. We all live such complicated lives. We need to focus on what’s important. It’s important to me to bring into focus that network of support, which is why I’ve decided to give away some of these things. I’ll start with the boys by giving them the ornaments they’ve cherished over the years. Then I’ll have immense fun with giving ornaments to friends. What I’m really giving is a symbol of love and shared tangential history. They’ll recognize that. By the end of this holiday season, we’ll have fewer ornaments but more relationships reinforced by appreciation, expressed verbally and symbolically. Perhaps readers will use their own traditions to accomplish the same thing. Expressing thanks for the bounty of friends and family is one of the goals in this season of love. What a blessing these people are -- both now, and all year long. Happy holidays.

Enjoy Corks and Forks by Gayle Barts

Which do you prefer? Old world wines or new world wines? Do you like wines from France or California, Spain or Chile, Germany or Australia, Italy or Argentina, or maybe all of these? Learn more about the wines of the world on Friday, January 15, at the Danville Science Center’s Third Annual Corks and Forks fundraiser. Some of the wines are not usually available in the Danville area, but can be purchased during the event through Robin Caldwell of Southern Gourmet. In addition to a cash bar, German and Belgian beers

will also be available for tasting and purchase. Wines will be paired with beef tenderloin, roasted turkey, salmon, vegetables, fruit, selected cheeses and desserts. Visit with friends during a relaxing evening from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. and bid on upscale items at a silent auction. All profits will benefit the Danville Science Center’s educational programs. n The DSC is located at 677 Craghead Street. n Elegant casual dress requested. n Tickets are $35 and can be purchased by calling 434.791-5160, ext. 204 or e-mail dscfoundation@smv.org.

Person County • Roxboro, NC – That Is! Christmas with The Embers December 5 7:30 pm Kirby Theater

The Embers have been entertaining for nearly 40 years wit their beach and rhythm and blues sounds. 336.597.1709 www.ArtsinPerson.com

“Sharing at Christmas” Roxboro Christmas Parade December 19 • 2 pm

The parade will follow the traditional Main Street route, beginning at the Carver Drive intersection and ends at the Gordon Street intersection. First, second and third-place awards will be given in the Amateur Division for ﬂoats. An award for the best religious theme will also be given. 336.599.1751

Upcoming Event Having Our Say January 16 16, 2010 7:30 pm Kirby Theater This is a journey through AfricanAmerican history or women’shistory as told through the eyes of two unforgettable women. Directed by Fred Motley. 336.597.1709 • www.ArtsinPerson.com

For more information visit www.visitroxboronc.com or call 336.597.2689

Page 16

December 2009

We’re

Don’t Put Off Til Tomorrow What You Can Bake Today by Annelle Williams

on Danville! Janet Laura • Holley Lewis Owner/Broker Owner/Broker

The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas used to seem like an eternity. Now that I’m the one making the lists and checking them twice, it doesn’t seem like such a long time anymore. I have Christmas card lists, gift lists, party lists, menu lists, scheduling lists, and of course, grocery lists. During this busy time, it’s nice to check off a few things early. I have two dessert recipes you can make now and enjoy anytime during the holidays. The spumoni you can freeze and it will ready to serve whenever you need it. The recipe for the rum cake with glaze has been around as long as I can remember, but I’ve discovered something new--freezing the cake makes it even more moist and delicious. Get busy now. Plan to make your desserts early. You’ll have more time later to enjoy all the excitement of the holidays. Find more recipes, on my blog: http://aroundannellestable.blogspot.com/ Have a wonderful Holiday Season!

Rum Cake

HOLLEY & LEWIS REALTY COMPANY

339 Piney Forest Rd., Danville, VA 24540

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

www.eraholleyandlewis.com WE’RE SELLING HOUSESSM

1 cup chopped pecans 1 pkg butter golden cake mix 1 pkg vanilla instant pudding mix ½ cup light rum ¼ cup water 1/2cup corn oil 4 large eggs, beaten Preheat oven to 325º. Grease and flour a Bundt pan. Crumble pecans in bottom of pan. Mix cake mix, pudding mix, light rum, water and corn oil until blended. Add eggs and beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 60 minutes.

Remove from oven and while cake is still hot pour Hot Rum Glaze* over cake. Leave in pan for 30 minutes.

*Hot Rum Glaze 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter ½ cup light rum

Boil all ingredients while stirring for 3 minutes. Pour over hot cake. To store: wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and foil. This cake tastes better a day or two after baking. The rum flavor becomes more intense.

Spumoni

(Italian molded dessert with candied fruits and nuts)

1/3 cup chopped candied red cherries 1/3 cup chopped pistachios 2 T chopped candied orange peel 2 T cherry brandy Chocolate syrup* and extra chopped pistachios to garnish

2 cups whole milk 5 large egg yolks pinch of salt ¾ cup sugar 1 T Frangelica (a hazelnut and herb-flavored liqueur) 1 cup heavy whipping cream ¼ cup powdered sugar

Whisk together egg yolks, salt and milk in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar and whisk until sugar melts and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and cool. Add Frangelica. Pour into 2-quart mold or loaf pan. Put in freezer until nearly firm. Beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff. Add powdered sugar and beat just to mix. Fold in cherries, pistachios, orange peel and brandy.

Remove mold from freezer. Gently form egg mixture up sides and on bottom of mold with a rubber spatula. Pour heavy cream mixture into center. Smooth top, cover with plastic wrap and freeze until firm. Unmold; slice into serving pieces, garnish with chocolate syrup and pistachios.

*Chocolate Syrup: Boil

½ cup water and 1 cup sugar until sugar melts. Add ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder and bring back to boil, stirring until cocoa is dissolved into syrup. Add ¾ cup heavy cream, stirring, and return to boil. Remove from heat. Store in refrigerator.