Evince Magazine
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February 2009
February Contents
Ve ince THE
2 Editor's Note
Publisher
3 Reflecting Forward / Notions on Devotion by Linda Lemery
Grammy Award Winner to Perform at The Wednesday Club by Patsi Compton
Editor’s Note
Evince is 13-years-old and like any teenager, it’s growing and evolving. With this issue, you will notice more color pictures on brighter, heavier paper. The most obvious change, however, is in the masthead which now reads eVince… A Voice for Women. In an informal survey taken over the last few months, the Evince staff found that most of our readers are female. That makes sense if you take a look at the 2000 census, because females living in the Danville area outnumber the males by more than 4,000. With this issue our new publisher acknowledges that fact and although changes have been made, be assured that the heart of eVince stays the same. We will still report on the topics that interest all: arts, entertainment, lifestyle, and the community movers-andshakers both male and female. Your favorite monthly columns will continue: Second Thoughts by Kim Clifton, Believe by Liz Sater, Around the Table by Annelle Williams, Looking at the Big Picture by Kathryn Davis, Staying Married Forever by Dr. Joey Faucette, Spotting Exceptional Customer Service written by our readers and the articles from The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. The columns written by the experts at Luna and Ben Rippe’s Fashion Statement will also be included. After you have finished reading this issue, please take a few minutes and tell me what you think. Email or snail mail your comments, compliments, and constructive criticisms. I look forward to hearing from you. And remember, real men wear pink, eat quiche, and read eVince. Joyce Wilburn Editor joyce@evincemagazine.com or Joyce Wilburn, eVince 300 Ringgold Industrial Parkway Danville, VA 24540
Keeping the Oral Tradition Alive by Lynne Bjarnesen
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Piano Virtuoso Shai Wosner Joins the NC Symphony in Danville Looking at the Big Pictutre by Kathryn Davis
6
COVER STORY / Taking Care of Business: Linda Hutson Green by Kim Clifton
7
She Said by Dena Hill / He Said by Larry Oldham
8
Having a Heart-to-Heart with Dr. Embrey by Joyce Wilburn
9
Around the Table / Healthy Heart, Stronger Love by Annelle Williams
Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors Coming to the Prizery by Chris Jones
Contributing Writers Lynne Bjarnesen, T Butler, Melissa Charles, Kim Clifton, Patsi Compton, Linda Lawrence Dalton, Kathryn Davis, J.B. Durham, Vickie Fuquay, Dena Hill, Chris Jones, Linda Lemery, Larry Oldham, Liz Sater, Dave Slayton, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams Sales Manager Larry Oldham larry@evincemagazine.com (434.728.3713)
10 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Dave Slayton
Crossing of the Dan Exhibit and Celebration Commemorates Historic Event by Joyce Wilburn
You're Invited to Experience a Broadway Adventure by Melissa Charles
11 Second Thoughts / A Band-Aid Approach by Kim Clifton 12 February Calendar 14 Attracting Birds to Your Backyard by Vickie Fuquay DRBA to Visit Reynolds Homestead by T Butler 15 Say "Hello" to Bye Bye Birdie by Linda Lawrence Dalton
Andrew Scott Brooks Editor Joyce Wilburn joyce@evincemagazine.com (434.799.3160) Associate Editor Larry G. Aaron larry.aaron@gmail.com (434.792.8695)
4 Believe...in the Heart of the City by Liz Sater
OICE FOR WOMEN
Fiddle-Dee-Dee: DLT Tackles the Writing of Gone with the Wind by j. B. Durham
On the Cover:
Photo of Linda Hutson Green by Barney Davis (Full Spectrum Photography) See story on page 6.
Meet Some of Our Writers
Sales Associates Laura Kondas (434.836.2796) lkondas317@mac.com Kim Demont (434.836.1247) kim@evincemagazine.com Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden) Graphic Designer Kim Demont
evince\i-’vin(t)s\
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 300 Ringgold Industrial Pkwy Danville, VA 24540 © 2009 All rights reserved. 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
Dave Slayton
Kim Clifton
is a Business Counselor with Longwood University at the Dan River Business Development Center.
has given us Second Thoughts to ponder for the past 12 years. Her reflections may make you laugh or make you cry. But they always make you glad to know that someone else feels the same way, too.
Linda Lawrence Dalton co-owner of Lawrence Distributing Company, is also active on local and state Chamber Boards and on the Arts & Humanities Board.
Linda Lemery works at Mary B. Blount Library at Averett University in Danville, VA. llemery@ gamewood.net
Deadline for submission of March stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21. Submit stories and articles to: joyce@evincemagazine.com. Submit calendar items to: kim@evincemagazine.com. For ad information contact a sales associate listed above.
Evince Magazine
Reflecting Forward Notions of Devotion by Linda Lemery
I bought a fishpond complete with waterfall. Nobody wanted it but me. My husband and sons were horrified when I came home from the yard sale lugging a two-level, 150-gallon, kidneyshaped pond form and three waterfall shells, saying, “Look what I got for 20 bucks—all you have to do is dig a hole and stick it in the ground!” While I err toward sunny optimism, the men in my family are realists. Since our lot slopes downhill, and water finds its own level, I didn’t realize the pond had to be level in the ground, not level with the ground. Achieving level in the ground took days of male sweating and grumbling. Because water won’t naturally flow uphill, we had to build a raised garden at the lower end that gave us an artificial downhill slope on which to install the waterfall. Now we could see it from our patio as opposed to just displaying it for the neighbors.
Once the pond, the artificial hill (requiring 60 new concrete retaining wall blocks at $1 per block) and the surrounding artificial turf -- don’t even ask -- were in place, we bought a pump and filter to make the waterfall run. Friends who felt sorry for my husband donated a few fish and water plants. I love the pond. However, my project list is miles long, and I rarely sit down to enjoy it. A predatory raccoon or heron eventually got the fish. After that, the pond plants were on their own, though I would visit them briefly when I needed the therapy of talking to something that didn’t talk back. One recent warm winter day, my husband was outside for a long time. Without my knowledge, he’d cleaned the pond. He’d washed the filter after noticing that the pond pump wasn’t working and spent some time struggling unsuccessfully to fix it. After he shared the bad news, out went the pump. We would deal with that in the spring. What’s my point here? His notion of devotion to me was that he’d cleaned the
pond he hates--the one he’d installed under duress and at unexpected, triple-digit expense. There are many forms of devotion. Perhaps you feel as I do: I’ll take a notion like this any time, because the only possible motivator is love. How would it change the world if we regularly did things like this for others, even for people beyond our significant other? Why not take this a step further? During this month of celebrating love, why not do a small daily service for somebody who needs help? There are 28 days in February. With one unexpected kindness per day, what a lot of extra kindness we could spread! Notions of devotion ... an intriguing idea for a month centered around love. Happy Valentine’s Day! About the Author: When she’s not buying ponds at yard sales, Linda Lemery works at Mary B. Blount Library at Averett University in Danville.
Grammy Winner to Perform at The Wednesday Club by Patsi Compton “I heard profound thoughts, deep feelings, and a wicked sense of humor. Very entertaining!” That’s how one reviewer described a concert by Grammy-Award winner Barbara Bailey Hutchison. On Wednesday, February 18, this gifted entertainer will bring her finely crafted songs and clever wit to The Wednesday Club in a program entitled From Hedy Lamar to Cell Phones. Hutchison’s one-woman show takes the audience on a lyrical journey through life. Combining a rich, warm voice with a sense of humor, she covers the gamut from family to politics. This singer-songwriter with 17 CDs to her credit has appeared at the White House and in nearly all of the 50 states including Alaska and Hawaii. Readers of a national magazine voted her Best Solo Act, Best Acoustic Act, and Best Female Performer. While her music carries a message of tolerance and human rights, she’s quick to show the humor in everyday life. A reviewer wrote, “This is a woman with plenty to say, and you can understand every word.” Hutchinson’s rich, warm voice is familiar to millions of television and radio listeners because of the hundreds of commercials she has sung for McDonald’s, Hallmark, Heinz, and other national advertisers. Circle Wednesday, February 18, on your calendar. This free program begins at 3:45 pm at The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street, and is open to the public. For more information, call 434.792.7921 and visit www.bbhsings.com.
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ASK DR. JUDITH
Judith A. Ostrowski, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Danville ENT Associates, Inc.
Q: Dr. Judith, how do I know if I have a hearing loss?
A: Hearing loss can occur gradually
and often our family notices it before we do. Here are some questions to ask yourself: 1. Does my family complain that I can’t hear them? 2. Do people say I play the television or radio too loud? 3. Do I have difficulty hearing speakers who are at a distance? 4. Do I have trouble hearing speech clearly in background noise? 5. Do I say “huh” or “what” or ask people to repeat a lot? 6. Do people seem to mumble or not speak clearly? 7. Do I have difficulty hearing women or children clearly? 8. Do I misunderstand what people say?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may have a hearing loss and should have your hearing evaluated by a doctoral level audiologist.
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434.792.0830 • 800.368.7183 www.denthc.com Hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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February 2009
February is National Wild Bird Feeding Month
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Annual Bird Photo Contest With 3 Prizes in 3 Catagories 1st Place • $50 Gift Certificate Saturday, February 7
Take a Walk on the Wild Side with Tony Adcock Photowalk • 8 am • Community Market Presentation • 10 am • Raywood
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Aristotle considered the human heart to be the seat of thought, reason and emotion. Now we know that it is the brain that controls our corporal responses to stimuli, but unless the heart is maintained in a healthy state, the entire body fails. The same is true in the heart of a city. That is why we put so much effort into the revitalization of our historic downtown district. In 2008, we were pleased to announce the opening of eight new businesses, one new residential project, and three new façade improvement projects, resulting in new capital investment of over $3 million. Even with a sluggish economy, those are good numbers, and this will do your heart good -- we are on track to surpass those numbers in 2009. A major renovation involves First State Bank, the first minorityowned bank in Virginia, and one of the most heartwarming stories in the history of Downtown Danville. On September 8, 1919, the small bank opened as Savings Bank of Danville in a rented hallway of the multi-use building at the corner of Spring and North Union Streets. The first president of the bank was Watkins Thompson, a local butcher, who held that position until 1931. First State grew over the years and expanded into multiple branches in order to better serve their customers. Ultimately, a beautiful new main office was built on Mount Cross Road and the aging downtown branch was closed. Now, First State Bank has come full circle. Realizing that
Believe...
in the Heart of the City by Liz Sater, Re-Development Coordinator
they would need to “move home to move forward”, they made the decision to re-invest in the heart of the city. They have now completely renovated the original property to house their entire operation and brought 17 employees back downtown. Current President, Kelvin Perry, is very happy to be back. The historic significance of the building resonates with him and he has gone to great lengths to uncover artifacts and photographs that tell the story. Staff and customers are also thrilled about the move. A grand opening and dedication celebration will be held in February. Another intriguing new business in Downtown Danville is not open to the public, but 3 million people per day view their wares. RunSkipShop is an Internet business began when owner Wes Hardin needed to make extra money while in college in Iowa. This energetic entrepreneur started by purchasing and selling items that are hard to find elsewhere on the Internet. Over the years, his part-time business grew steadily and he became more and more frustrated with
the daily grind of working for someone else. It wasn’t long before Wes and wife Lisa decided to ditch the 9 to 5, pack up the web-based enterprise, and move closer to her family on the East Coast. An Internet search for affordable real estate brought them to Danville and they have fallen in love with the area, even convincing Iowan friends Laurie and David Kellamyn to join them here. No longer able to contain the business inventory in their homes, they have purchased property in Downtown Danville at 115 South Union Street and both couples work the business on a daily basis. Their little cottage industry has grown from an offering of a room full of electronic products to over 2,700 items, with sales increasing 50% over the past year. “Not every business is down,” Wes proclaims, “and this community is not depressed. People here are so friendly!” For those who Believe in downtown revitalization, stories like these make your heart swell.
Keeping the Oral Tradition Alive Storytelling Festival
Also, local African Americans who have inspired social and economic progress in Danville through their careers and community activism will be honored. Mayor Sherman Saunders will present certificates of recognition to Curtis D. Gore, Jr., Nannie Geary Armstrong, Rhonda Poteat Womack, Theodosia L. Briggs, Deloris Crews, C.G. Hairston Sr., and Essic Gregory Hairston.
by Lynne Bjarnesen The 8th Annual Storytelling Festival, Keeping the Oral Tradition Alive, will draw hundreds of local and regional residents to the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for a day of listening to stories by professional and local storytellers who specialize in the legacy of the “keeper of the word” within the African-American culture. A joint endeavor between the Museum, Fred Motley, and the Cultural Arts Ensemble, this free event will feature guest storytellers, the Healing Force of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Cultural Arts Ensemble members Brenda Harris, James Harris, Catrina Jones, Rene Hicks and Margaret Foster will be joined by Portia Fitzgerald in the swapping circle
to spin yarns and weave words. Traditional drumming and dance will by performed by Patricia Hall’s Kuumba Dance Company
Keeping the Oral Tradition Alive, celebrated during Black History Month on Saturday, February 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is a family-oriented, multi-cultural event, meant to inspire and bring together all ethnic groups in the community. For more information, call 434.793.5644. The Museum is located at 975 Main Street.
Evince Magazine
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Piano Virtuoso Shai Wosner Joins the NC Symphony in Danville New visiting exhibition Now through May 25, 2009
Join us for these fun programs!
Enter an interactive maze to learn about butterflies' friends and foes.
Wild, Wonderful Weather Friday, Feb. 13, 2009, at 8 p.m. Free. All ages welcome. Assistant Conductor Joan Landry returns to Danville’s George Washington High School Auditorium on Saturday, February 7, at 7:30 p.m. with the acclaimed North Carolina Symphony in a performance of symphonic masterworks to include the internationally-acclaimed pianist Shai Wosner. Back by popular demand, the North Carolina Symphony last joined the Danville Concert Association season line-up two years ago. Described by The New York Times as “a superb pianist” and The Financial Times (London) as “an artist to follow keenly,” Wosner continues to attract praise for his exceptional artistry, musical integrity and creative insight. Of a recent concert with the Cleveland Orchestra, one critic noted Wosner’s “quicksilver articulation, sterling technique and youth vivacity” as well as “the smart, subversive quality he brought to his witty, delightful performance.” With the North Carolina Symphony, Wosner will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, regarded as one of the composer’s many masterpieces and one of his most consistently popular concertos. The program also includes Carl Nielson’s Helios Overture, which depicts the passage of the sun in the sky from dawn to nightfall, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s exotic and evocative tone poem Scheherazade. For tickets and more information call DCA at 434.792-9242. or visit www.danvilleconcerts.org. To learn more about the North Carolina Symphony visit www.ncsymphony.org.
Looking at the
Big Picture by Kathryn Davis
I was playing with my grandson, Elijah, the other day, and I began to wonder-- What it is about him that makes me love him so much? Sure, he’s cute, but so is every other child in one way or another. Yes, he’s playful, but what child doesn’t like to play? Then it hit me. I love this child so much because he loves me, unconditionally. It’s a real joy to be with him, because he appreciates my presence. And I enjoy sharing new things with him, because he finds every new thing fascinating. The more I reflected on this precious soul God has placed in our family, the more I realized that that’s how God must feel about us. Like Elijah, God loves each one of us, not for how we look or act, but just because we’re part of His family. He truly appreciates every moment we spend with Him. And I believe it pleases Him to see us enjoying every part of His creation. No wonder Jesus loves the little children. We can learn a lot from them.
Digital Photos: Nuts & Bolts (ages 15 to adult) Saturday, Feb. 21, 2009, 1–4 p.m. Fee: $8 (Includes Science Center admission.); Members, $5. Please register by Feb. 19. Ask about our fun-filled science classes for kids age 3–12! Amazing Butterflies sponsored by: KIWANIS CLUB OF DANVILLE FOUNDATION
677 CRAGHEAD ST. DANVILLE, VA (434) 791-5160
dsc.smv.org
Neurology & Sleep Clinic of Southern Virginia Drs. Juan E. Cuebas and Rafael V. Hurtado welcome new patients at their newly built state-of-the-art neurology practice & sleep center at 178 Executive Drive. The doors of the Neurology & Sleep Clinic of Southern VA are open to serve children and adults with all kind of neurological and sleep conditions. • Tingling • Sleep Problems • Blackout Spells • Stroke
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• Weakness • Leg/Arm Pain • Anxiety • Falls
Drs. Cuebas & Hurtado also perform EMG/Nerve conduction studies, EEGs, Sleep Studies, and therapeutic Botox injections.
The Neurology & Sleep Clinic of Southern VA relocated from 201 South Main St., where it has been serving for the past three years. Dr. Juan E. Cuebas Board Certified in Neurology & Sleep Medicine
Dr. Rafael V. Hurtado Board Certified in Neurology
Call us (434) 792-3232 • www.neurologist.medem.com
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February 2009
photo by Barney Davis
W
ho can turn the world on with her smile… who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile. If you think this song is only about Mary Tyler Moore, then chances are you’ve never met Linda Hutson Green, President of the Dan River Business Development Center (DRBDC). Even though Linda works in Danville and not in Minneapolis like Mary, the DRBDC is still in the big leagues. This joint venture between the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County is located on the Ringgold Industrial Parkway and was established to nurture businesses throughout the difficult start-up years. The goal is to help them survive so that they can create more jobs after leaving the center. Linda understands that making it in this world takes strong roots, for both companies and people. She realized that learning from the school of hard knocks isn’t always the best career plan. She credits committed teachers from Tunstall High for showing her that a good education is the basis for everything in life. Growing up on a Dry Fork tobacco farm is another source of strength for her, due to the good work ethic instilled in her by her parents. But today, she’s more likely to be found using a shovel at a groundbreaking than in a garden. There was a time when working women were mainly found in classrooms, not board rooms. She says, “I was generally the lone female in the early days of school and employment - the only female in a team of 24 quality analysts at Goodyear, the only female in a team of 12 Technology Transfer Directors for the Center for Innovative Technology across the state, and the first female Manufacturing Director in the state as well as the first female executive director for the Virginia Research and Technology Advisory Board. This was also true in many clubs and civic organizations. I would like to impress upon other females in the area the importance of stepping forward - making a commitment to the community and to your profession. I will always believe that education and commitment leveled the playing field for me. It
Taking Care of Business:
Linda Hutson Green by Kim Clifton
enabled me to network at different levels, and to learn and grow.” When you look at Linda’s track record, you’ll find that taking care of business is her specialty. In the four years that she’s been the president of the center, she’s assisted companies who employ 1757 persons (203 of whom were from small startup businesses), the facility’s occupancy increased from 40% to 95% and the center graduated 19 companies with 86% of those companies remaining viable businesses in the region. But running a local incubator that provides hosting and support to entrepreneurial businesses isn’t just limited to this region. DRBDC’s work has reached both the national and international levels. “Last year we witnessed Dan Valley and One Stop Cellular recognized among the top
companies in the world for their growth and developments as they became two of four companies recognized among 5000 incubators worldwide. Incubators have housed companies like Apple, and our companies stack up to the best of the best,” Linda says. Talk about turning the world on with her smile. Under her leadership, the incubator received one of 12 world-wide certifications as an International Soft Landing Incubator. Linda explains, “We were one of the 12 best places, with only six in the United States, to come into the United States and conduct business due to the local support. Companies responsible for this recognition included Swedwood from Sweden and Poland, Essel Propak from India, and Buentec from the United Kingdom.” This phenomenal achievement is the result of a regional
commitment. “This includes multi-jurisdictional support from both the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County, and I love that the DRBDC exists because of the joint efforts they made to support entrepreneurs,” she says. Even in these uncertain economic times, you won’t find Linda frowning. She’s encouraged by entrepreneurs of days gone by who seized the opportunity to develop a rich industrial base of textiles and tobacco around the winding Dan River. And those who enabled Danville to host one of the first 10 chambers of commerce in the nation. “I hope that this same entrepreneurial spirit will usher us into a new horizon,” Linda adds. When you look at the highlights of Linda’s career, which far exceed those mentioned in this article, the ones that mean the most aren’t even listed. “My husband, Wayne, and my daughter, Brandi, along with my other immediate family members are the most important things in my life. Brandi’s birth was the most significant accomplishment of my life everything else is secondary to my job as her mother, and as the stepmom to Gerald and Carol. Every important decision in my life, has been based on its merit to my values and ethics, and measured by its impact on my family and friends. That makes the decision much easier and the outcome more worthwhile,” she says. Linda spends her days, nights and weekends doing for others. She says she can never give as much as she has received. She adds, “I have been tremendously fortunate to have strong faith, a good upbringing, a good education, and wonderful family and friends. Everything else that has happened for me in my life has been the results of these gifts to me by others.” Truth be told, Linda Hutson Green didn’t want a feature on herself because she doesn’t think she’s the story. Linda explains, “I have been touched by a handful of extremely wise and generous individuals, and if I work forever to pass this on, I will still be indebted to them far beyond anything I could ever contribute. As I look back on my experiences, it is people who are most important and who made
Evince Magazine the most difference - not the jobs, not the personal accomplishments, and certainly not the mistakes. I believe I have an obligation to mentor others as I have been mentored.” It’s an obligation that she takes very seriously. The number of instances where her hand touched legislation or instances where she’s impacted change for economic development, community development and professional development would literally fill volumes. Some of which she’s even penned and published herself. Whether she likes the attention or not, the fact remains that Linda Hutson Green doesn’t just know people. Linda Hutson Green is people. She’s a mover and a shaker with a list of accomplishments as long as your arm. Impressive as Linda’s resume is, that’s still not what first makes you a believer… it’s the smile. And just like the song promises Mary Tyler Moore, Linda’s warmth promises even the most timid entrepreneur clutching a dream…that with hard work and perseverance, you’re gonna make it after all.
Career and Professional Highlights Managing Director for Entrepreneurship & Federal Funding: Center for Innovative Technology Executive Director of Virginia Research & Technology Advisory Commission Southside Business Technology Center, Board Member & Fund Raising Committee Member Virginia Business Incubation Association Board, Vice President FIRST - Virginia Regional Board of Directors & VIP Judge
She Said by Dena Hill National Heart Month (for most people) February is National Heart Month and I thought this might be a good time to remind you that your heart is what keeps you alive. Feeding it ribeye steak, prime rib, mashed potatoes and every kind of candy bar you can digest does not keep your heart healthy. I don’t want to get on the exercise subject again because I know how much it pains you (no pun intended). When we ride our bikes (twice a year) with our friends and you have to stop to watch the birds fly (lol) or see the pigeons land, my assumption is that you are out of wind and need a rest stop. We try to limit the rest stops to none and you try to limit your stops to under a hundred. Now I am not your mother and I am not trying to tell you what to do, but you do need to love me forever and you always need to be my valentine. Did I tell you that I plan to live to be a hundred? If you are going to be with me, then you have to start taking better care of your heart so we can share many more Valentine Days together. From now on remember...exercise, eat the right kinds of food, and take care of your heart. One hundred is not that far away for either one of us. A little precaution on our part could help us live longer. If you love me you will start exercising and taking better care of yourself. Now go clean your room.
he Said by Larry Oldham As usual you may be right about this heart thing. I think most men’s hearts hurt because they are aching over something that you women have done. I mean exercising and eating tofu is pretty much a girl thing. Don’t get all huffy puffy on me now about being sexist. This has nothing to do with sex. You make a lot of good points. I don’t really have a lot of time for exercising and such with my busy and hectic schedule. I have basketball in the winter, football in the fall, volleyball in the spring, NASCAR through the summer and early fall, and I do have a job you know. I mean taking care of myself for you is very important. I want you to be my valentine and all, but do I have to jump through all these hoops just to buy you candy once a year? The bike riding is fine, however, that trail is at least 100 miles long, and they don’t have rest stops, or snack stands. If I stop to take a drink from my water bottle, I get accused of resting. I think a better way of taking care of my heart is to stay at home and curl up with a good book, a tall bottle of soda, a Snickers bar, some potato chips, and a good race on TV. I believe all doctors would agree with me that I am resting my heart, and they would probably agree with me that I am preserving my heart. I believe the same as you about taking care of the heart, we just have different methods. Who’s to say my way wouldn’t work too? If I live to be a hundred, I can sing I Did It My Way.
She said He said
National Business Incubation Association, Outstanding Tenant and Graduate Award Selection Committee Duke University Alumni Communications Chair, Fuqua School of Business Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce Board, Chair Business Development Committee National Foundation for Workforce Solutions – Dan River Coalition Evaluator
Q: If it is a buyers’ market, where are all the buyers? A: Supply is up and demand is down because of stricter lending standards...and credit worthy buyers figure they can have their pick right now. They can take their time as they are calling the shots. Buyers are still out there and some are waiting for prices to fall further, or interest rates to fall even further.
Riverview Rotary Member (Past President)
Dale Bray Castiglione, Associate Broker / Licensed in VA & NC
Free Clinic Strategic Planning Team; Goodwill Industries, Board & Finance Committee; & YWCA Strategic Advisory Team
Wilkins & Co. Realtors
428 Piney Forest Road • Danville, Virginia 24540 Office: 434.797.2477 • Cell: 434.203.7583 • Fax: 434.797.4020 1.800.295.4007 • email: dale@ wilkinsandco.com
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February 2009
Having a Heart-to-Heart with Dr. Embrey
by Joyce Wilburn
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626 North Ridge Street Danville, VA 24541 • 434-822-1050 healingtouchtherapy@verizon.net
One 30-minute conversation with cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Richard Embrey is all it takes to know that he is the perfect person to rejuvenate the Heart Center of the Piedmont at Danville Regional Medical Center. It’s late afternoon in the coldest week of January, but his warm smile and upbeat welcome give no hint that he has come to the end of another long day of work. From his office on South Main Street, he speaks about DRMC’s recent re-affiliation with nationally renowned Duke Heart Center and why the reestablishment went so smoothly. “We didn’t have to start from scratch. We still had the equipment--and some of the ICU and operating room personnel have been here since day one,” he says referring to the original relationship with Duke, which began in 2003 and ended in December 2005. Duke and DRMC parted ways a few months after LifePoint purchased the hospital in July 2005. “Lifepoint didn’t understand the value of that relationship. They saw the money going out, but not the value coming in, so they cut it,” he explains. From then until recently, a loose arrangement with Duke provided a heart surgeon at the Danville hospital but all other support for cardiology and the Heart Center was withdrawn. “After a few years, LifePoint realized how worthwhile the affiliation was and renewed it,” explains the 51-year-old Lynchburg native who now resides in Danville with his wife, Rebecca, and 13-year-old son, Pearce. The present agreement includes the development, support, and delivery of inpatient and outpatient cardiac services, cardiovascular surgery, diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization, vascular surgery, vascular intervention and other cardiac diagnostic procedures and medical services. “There are some very good people working hard every day
to make this hospital better,” says Embrey noting that the Duke Heart Center will provide quality oversight for the DRMC program. Not only does Embrey praise his co-workers but also Danville’s citizenry. “The people here are so nice. They are nicer than anywhere else I’ve lived,” says the man who graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1983 from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, trained in Boston and Birmingham, and worked in academic and administrative positions in Iowa City, Richmond (Virginia), Lubbock (Texas), and most recently in Springfield, Illinois, where as Medical Director at Southern Illinois University he worked with 200 physicians in the Faculty Practice Plan. After years of moving around the country, Embrey has settled in Danville and is helping to make the Heart Center of the Piedmont successful. “The costs of running this program are significant and we can’t expect the hospital to loose huge amounts of money,” says Embrey who has a 2008 master’s degree in business from Duke and understands the financial side of health care. For the Heart Center of the Piedmont to flourish, Embrey knows that restoring patient confidence in the hospital is the number one priority. “In larger hospitals, patients often talk to residents or physicians-in-training, not the attending physician,” he says. “We will give them the same level of service and care they can receive elsewhere,” he promises, “and because we are a smaller program, patients will receive a more personal level of attention.” Service, care, and personal attention – three values that define Dr. Embrey’s work every day and keep the Heart of the Piedmont beating. For more information, visit www.danvilleregional.org.
Evince Magazine
Healthy Heart, Stronger Love by Annelle Williams
We begin each new year with good intentions, but by the time February rolls around many of our goals have fallen by the wayside. Even without research, I’m sure that more pounds are lost during
the month of January than any other time, but what is more important is developing health habits we can follow all year long. There is a new study revisiting the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle. It explains that the Mediterranean diet isn’t low in fat, but its main sources of fat (olive oil, oily fish, nuts, seeds and certain vegetables) improve cholesterol ratios and reduce inflammation. The inflammation factor is the new part of the equation that is clearly a measurable indicator in heart disease. The diet, which includes vegetables, fruits, grains, fish, and olive oil, seems to be the healthiest and the easiest to maintain. Add stress-reducing relaxation techniques and moderate exercise and we have everything needed for a healthy lifestyle. During this month devoted to love, let’s take it a step further and love our hearts and the hearts of the ones we love by implementing a heart-healthy diet. And finally, let’s pledge to make this a priority all year long. These recipes are designed to get us off to a good start. Remember--healthy heart, stronger love.
Spinach Pizza with Canadian Bacon 1 (8oz.) whole wheat pizza crust (pre-made ex: Mama Mary’s at Food Lion) 2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, chopped 1 (6oz.) bag fresh baby spinach 1 (5 oz.) package Canadian bacon, cut into slivers 3 Italian tomatoes, sliced into rounds salt and pepper to taste 2 cups low-fat shredded mozzarella cheese Preheat oven to 375º. Put crust into pizza pan sprayed with cooking spray. Add olive oil to a medium-sized sauté pan over medium heat. Add garlic cloves and sauté for a couple of minutes, stirring. Add spinach to pan in two batches, tossing until it’s wilted and mixed with garlic. Salt to taste. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels. Add sliced Canadian bacon to same pan and sauté until beginning to brown. Top pizza crust evenly with spinach. Follow with Canadian bacon. Add tomato slices, and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Top with cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and beginning to puff.
Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors Coming to the Prizery by Chris Jones Comedy of Errors, one of William Shakespeare’s earliest plays and the shortest, will be presented by the international-known Aquila Theatre Company at the Prizery in South Boston on Sunday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. A major part of the humor in the play comes from slapstick and mistaken identity in addition to puns and wordplay. The plot tells the story of two pairs of identical twins in the same household separated by a devastating shipwreck. Comedy abounds in this tale of mistaken identity, assumed personas and whimsical family ties. Shakespeare expertly weaves these entertaining strands together allowing his audience to stay one step ahead of the characters and laugh heartily at the outrageous results. The Aquila Theatre Company’s imaginative and exuberant production of Shakespeare’s classic comedy is a must- see for newcomers to Shakespeare and Bard enthusiasts. Their smash hit has played extended engagements in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Europe and has won international praise for their innovative presentations of classical drama. With an amazing visual production, clever movement, superb costumes, brilliant lighting and a specially commissioned musical score, the Aquila Theatre Company’s wonderful Comedy of Errors will once again prove to be an unforgettable theatrical experience. For more information, call 434.572.8339 or visit www.prizery.com.
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February 2009
Crossing of the Dan Exhibit and Celebration Commemorates Historic Event by Joyce Wilburn
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. A mystery customer will visit your nominee’s place of business for verification. We’ll publish the best entry received. The chosen honoree will receive a small gift and a framed copy of the published story citing his/her exceptional service.
February Nomination by Dave Slayton During the weeks before Christmas, I was shopping for a toy for my new “little brother” from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Danville. I didn’t know exactly how to spell the name of the line of toys that interested him and my efforts to search the Internet with various spellings proved unsuccessful. That’s when I decided to visit Toys R Us on Executive Drive and ask for help. It was at the Danville store where I met a Toys R Us Christmas angel named Destiny Williams. I approached her after she had just finished helping another bewildered shopper. The only information I could give her was a misspelling of the toy’s name. She patiently asked several questions with a smile, “Is the toy for a nine-toeleven year old boy? Is it associated with a program on the Cartoon Network?" I answered, “Yes,” to both questions. She continued, “I think I know what you are looking for so follow me.” Within a few steps, we were looking at a display of all the Bakugan items-- a trading card game, miniatures game, and marbles game based on the television series Bakugan Battle Brawlers. I said, “Thank you and Hallelujah!” Many sincere thanks to Destiny and I commend her for having outstanding customer service. Editor’s Note: In a follow-up email, Dave Slayton reported his little brother’s reaction to receiving the gift: “He liked it and appeared to be surprised (maybe stunned is a better word) that I had gotten it for him. In fact, he was speechless for a few seconds. Given my apparent puzzled look when he told me about Bakugan I guess it was a shock to see I had actually learned something about a part of his world. I loved it!”
Exactly 228 years ago on Feb. 13-14, 1781, during the final crucial months of the American Revolution, General Nathanael Greene’s ragtag American army retreated across the Dan River at South Boston in a maneuver that sealed the fate of the British Empire in North America. The British army, which had dogged the Americans for over 200 miles across the Carolinas in bitterly cold and rainy weather, arrived at the river too late. Unable to cross the river because the Americans had all the boats on the other side, British General Charles Earl Cornwallis retreated. After Greene’s destitute forces were resupplied and reinforced by neighboring Virginia counties, especially Halifax and Pittsylvania Counties, he recrossed the Dan and engaged Cornwallis at Guilford Courthouse in present day Greensboro. In what became the bloodiest battle of the Revolution, Greene severely mauled Cornwallis’s forces. Cornwallis retreated again, this time to the coast, and then invaded Virginia, where he marched to Yorktown and surrendered. Greene’s actions in the race to the Dan not only saved his army, but
rescued the Revolution once again. The rest is history. Greene’s Crossing of the Dan will be celebrated on Friday, February 13, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Prizery, 700 Bruce Street, in South Boston with a presentation by Dr. Wayne Lee, Associate Professor of History at University of North Carolina, followed by a Colonial music concert by Ken Bloom. The night will end with a lantern pilgrimage to the crossing site. On Saturday, February 14, Dr. Dennis Conrad, a noted authority on Greene’s Southern campaign, will speak at 10 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m. wreath-laying ceremony. At noon, a pilgrimage to the crossing site will be accompanied by the Guilford Courthouse Fife and Drum Corps and will feature a musket demonstration. In addition, Larry Aaron of Danville will sign copies of his book, The Race to the Dan, with all proceeds going to the Crossing of the Dan exhibit at the Prizery. The museum quality exhibit details the events of the race to the Dan with emphasis on the crossing. Lifelike models of British and American soldiers arrayed in complete uniform and armaments along with models of General Greene and Colonel Edward Carrington are on display. For more information contact Anne Raab, Regent of the DAR Berryman Green Chapter at 434.470.1350 or tsraab@comcast.net.
You’re Invited to Experience a Broadway Adventure by Melissa Charles
If you love to dance and want to experience a Broadway Adventure, mark your calendars now for a special event on Thursday, February 26, when Broadway actress, Leslie Goddard, comes to Danville to teach three sessions of a master class. Dancers will learn the original choreography from the Broadway hit, Hairspray, and hear about Leslie’s experiences as a four-year featured member in the Broadway company of Hairspray and her current work in Jersey Boys at the Palazzo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. A short question-and-answer session will follow. Leslie started performing in seventh grade in Fiddler on the Roof and has been singing and dancing ever since. She attended New York University earning a bachelor of fine arts degree with a specialty in musical theatre. She has toured the United States in Showboat and The Sound of Music and performed regionally in Bye, Bye Birdie, A Chorus Line, Smoky Joe’s Cafe and Honky Tonk Angels. She was recently seen in Broadway: Three Generations at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Some dance training is recommended for all sessions. The first session from 4 pm to 4:45pm is open to dance students between 6-8 years old and beginners up to age 12. Cost is $15; city residents $10. The second session from 5pm to 6:30pm is open to experienced dancers ages 9-14. Cost is $25; city residents $20. The third session from 7pm to 8:30pm is open to students age15 and up including adults. Cost is $25; city residents $20. Proceeds from this event sponsored by Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism and DMR Adventures will benefit the Jr. Broadway Adventure production of Alice in Wonderland, Jr., scheduled for March 20-22, and future Broadway Adventures. For more details or to register call The Invitation Destination at 434.791.4091.
Evince Magazine
Second T houghts A Band-Aid Approach by Kim Clifton ©2009
I don’t know what’s so happy about a new year. I’m just fine with the old one, thank you just the same. But, everybody makes a big fuss about Happy New Year this and Auld Lang Syne that. They aren’t thinking it through. We’re just getting to the best part of the calendar during the holidays. There’s tons of great food, colored lights, beautiful music, and fancy presents. But once that ball drops in Times Square, the party’s over. And speaking of dropping the ball, that brings me to the memorable New Year’s Eve I spent with my sister last month when we went to Orlando to visit her sons, my nephews. It was meant to be a vacation, but you’d never know it from the way we spent our days…washing clothes, cleaning apartments, and cooking meals. For all the vacationing we did, we might as well have been in Pelham. Orlando is a major tourist mecca with lots of exciting things to do, for everyone but us, that is. The self-service at Wal-Mart was as close as we got to life in the fast lane. I knew before we left Danville that we weren’t going out for New Year’s, which suited me just fine. I don’t know why anyone would invite me to a shindig in the first place. If you’ve met me, you know that I don’t have a whole lot to say...out loud, that is. So, unless we sit in a room and text message each other, I’m actually not a whole lot of fun. So staying in to watch the midnight festivities on TV was our plan…that is until Tuesday evening when my nephew Andrew proudly announced, “Mom. Kim. I have great news. We’re all invited to my boss’s house tomorrow night for a big party.” I was still waiting for the great news. I’d been planning this trip for months, and so far the forecast had been right on target. I’d only needed khakis, some golf shirts, a couple pair of sneakers and a light jacket at night. The alleged great news got worse when I learned where the party was to take place. You see, Andrew is in the PGA program, which means he gets paid to play golf well and to teach others how to do the same. And the party we were invited to was in Bay Hill, the elite community where Arnold Palmer’s famous golf tournament is held. This surprise announcement complicated things. Forget that I was already broke from paying for Christmas and this trip. What mattered was that I was 650 miles from my closet and had one day to find something festive to wear, something that would make me look thin and not break the bank. Establishing world peace would have been simpler. A frantic 24 hours later, I found myself going to a home where both spouses were professional golfers. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I knew we weren’t in Kansas anymore when we parked our rented PT Cruiser alongside Jaguars, Maseratis and Porsches. The house was just your typical mansion with long hallways and high ceilings. It wasn’t the elaborate furnishings that impressed me most. I was totally mesmerized by a lighted display cabinet stocked floor-to-ceiling with Waterford crystal trophies. It was so hard to resist reading the inscriptions, but necessary since I have the delicate touch of a bull in a china shop. The outfit I’d ended up with was suede, and a bit warm, so I was grateful when we went out to the lanai…which is just a million dollar word meaning patio. No sooner had we’d settled in when my sister shoved her wine glass in my hand and said, “Hold this. I’ll be right back!” It seemed like an eternity before she reappeared and urgently announced, “We have to leave RIGHT NOW. I promised I’d call my husband by midnight.” As if her cheap cell phone would be denied service in this ritzy neighborhood. We raced out of the party like we were going to miss a bus, waving a hasty farewell to our puzzled hosts. It wasn’t until we got into the car that Diane told us what had happened. “I was standing there talking, when a lady on a tall bar stool accidentally kicked my leg with her stilettos. I looked down and blood was splattered all around me,” she said. “Then I thought to myself…how can I get from this porch, into the kitchen, through the dining room and find a bathroom without leaving a trail like a deer that’s been shot.” She found the ladies room which unfortunately had no tissues, so she used toilet paper instead. “With all that flushing, I’m sure anyone outside the door thought the salsa hadn’t agreed with me,” she continued. Trouble was, the bleeding wouldn’t stop and the roll was empty. “I had two choices,” Diane reasoned. “Steal the woman’s guest towel or make a tourniquet…out of my underwear.” While the homemade bandage did make her slacks a little breezy, she knew she was just seconds away from her panties sliding down to her ankle. “That’s the price you pay for wearing silky lingerie,” she explained. “Cotton briefs would have stayed put.” As awful as this experience was, I’m not sure who had it worse, my nephew or my sister. She left with her skivvies tied to her shin, but he had to later face the man who thought someone had gotten stabbed by the pool. It’s funny when you think about it. All that day I had been fuming about attending the party. I had to spend money I didn’t have, be with people I didn’t know, in a place I didn’t belong, to celebrate something I didn’t like. Yet after hearing my sister’s tale of woe, there I was with tears rolling down my face, slapping the seat cushions and gasping for air. I couldn’t have had any happier New Year’s Eve. And it was my sister, not me, who left with her knickers in a knot.
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February 2009
February Calendar February Through February 21
PAA Exhibits – Crowns, Legacy for the Generations & works by Brian Counihan. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.
Through March 2
Olympic Tae Kwon Do-Exploratory Program – Ages 8-14. 4:30 pm. City Armory. 434.797.8848. Women’s Self-Defense Program – 5:30 pm. City Armory. 434.797.8848. Belly Dance Class – Mon 5:30 or 6:45 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. Getting Organized Class – 6-7 pm. City Armory. 434.797.8848.
Through March 8
Danville Museum Exhibits – One Eared Cow Glass & Who Am I?Discovering Harriet Fitzgerald. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.
Through May 25
Amazing Butterflies Exhibit – (See ad page 5.)
February 1
Averett Women’s Basketball vs. Mary Baldwin College. 2 pm. AU – 434.791.5621.
February 2
Photography Club – Novice to expert photographers are welcome. 7 pm. Henry County Photo Club – 276.634.4640. Rave On! Buddy Holly Concert. Kirby Theatre, Roxboro. (See ad page 16 )
February 2 (thru 23)
Boogie Monday – Shag. Mondays 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.
February 2 (thru March 2)
Projects in Woodturning. 6-9 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
February 3
Bye, Bye, Birdie – (See story page 15)
February 3 & 10
Take a Spin on the Potter’s Wheel. – Instruction on creating pieces on the potter’s wheel, choosing glaze and firing in a kiln. 6-9 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
February 3 (thru 24)
Koates Kids Pre-School Program. Ages 3-5. Tues/Weds 9:30 am–12 pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848. Sign Language Classes. Tues 4 -5 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216. African Dance Ensemble – Learn the art of African Dance. Tues 6-7:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. Sewing with Kitty – Suitable for beginners and experienced students. Tues 6:30-8:30pm. Coates Center. 434.797.8848.
February 3 (thru 26)
Fitness For Older Adults, Ladies & ABSolute Fitness. Tues/Thurs, 9–11 am; Ladies 10 am–12 pm; ABSolute Fitness 10:30-11:30 am. City Armory. 434.797.8848.
Chicks with Sticks - Knitting & Crocheting. Tues/Thurs, 11:30 am–1 pm. City Armory. 434.797.8848.
February 7 (thru 28)
Fetch! Lab - Build a tower out of cups that can support the weight of a book or two. Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160. Senior Bowling Tournament. 10 am–12 pm. Riverside Lanes – 434.791.2695.
February 7 (thru April 23)
February 4
February 4 (thru 25)
Toddler Storytime. 2/4-Cats; 2/11All My Friends; 2/18-Time for Bed; 2/25-Hats Off to Me. Ages 18 month – 3 years. Weds 10:15 am. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326. Guitar for Youth & Teens Class – Ages 5-17. Wed 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.
February 4 (thru March 4)
Pottery Lab. Wed. 6-9 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
February 5 (thru 7)
The V Monologues – Obie-Award winning production taken from interviews with more than 200 women about sex, relationships and violence. 8 pm. Averett Student Center. 434.791.5712.
February 5 & 12
Cooking Class – Create a Special Dinner for your Sweetheart. 6-9 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
February 5 (thru 26)
Guitar Basics Class. Thurs. 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. Line Dance Class – Beginner & popular line dances. Thurs 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.
February 7
Take a Walk on the Wild Side – (See ad page 4) Glass Art for Your Valentine – Create a fused glass plate. 9 am–1 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Storytelling Festival. (See ad page 7 and story page 4) Ice Cup Disc Golf Tournament. 10 am2 pm. Ballou Park. 434.799.5215. DRBA’s First Saturday Outing – (See story page 14) Bob Ross Painting Class – Deep Mountain Pool. 10:30 am–3:30 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Averett Basketball vs. Greensboro College. Women’s 2 pm. Men’s 4 pm. AU– 434.791.5621. The Shirelles – Credited as originators of the girl group sound. 8 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – 336.694.4591. North Carolina Symphony Concert (See story on page 5)
February 7 & 14
Build a Clay Birdhouse – Design your own birdhouse using a blueprint and clay hand building techniques. 9am-12pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
West African Dance & Drumming Class. Sat 10:30 am-12 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. Darwin Exhibits - Evidence & Evolution and Enchanted Islands. Opening Reception 2/5 5:30-7:30 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History. 276.634.4185.
February 8
Averett Baseball vs. Virginia Wesleyan College. 12 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. The Spencers Theatre of Illusion – Original theatrical elements combined with cutting-edge illusions, special effects, music, and stagecraft. 7-9 pm. Martinsville HS Auditorium. Piedmont Arts – 276.632.3221. Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors – (See story page 9)
February 9
Mariachi Band. 6:30-9:30 pm. Los Tres Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 434.792.0601.
February 9 (thru March 3)
Painting with Judie – Learn how to paint with oil or watercolor. Mon or Tues 6-8 pm or 10 am-12 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
February 10
Alzheimer’s Presentation – Aging, Mind, Body Programs. 12–1 pm. Ballou Center. 434.792.3700 x30. Polliwogs & Science Stars Polliwogs compare sugar and salt. Stars explore the many different sea animals that live in the ocean. Ages 3–4 1–2 pm; Ages 5–7 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160. Averett Baseball vs. Lynchburg College. 2 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. Women’s Only Racquetball Tournament – 6 pm. YMCA – 434.792.0621. Photography Club. 6:30-7:45 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
February 11
Yappy Hour. Pet education class – Shelter adoption/rescue. 6-7 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.
February 11 (thru 14)
Androcles and The Lion – Musical. 2/11-9 am; 2/12-14 7 pm. North Theatre. Galileo Magnet School Theatre Department – 434.773.8186. Sweets for Your Sweet –Chinqua Penn Plantation. (See ad page 14)
February 11 (thru 25)
Lighten Up for Live V. 2nd, 3rd & 4th Wednesdays, 9-11 am. Ballou Center. 434.799.5216.
February 12
Va. BlueBird Society Program – (See ad page 4) Paleontology Lecture – creation/ evolution debate. 6-7:30 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185.
February 13
Valentine Day Flower Arranging Class. 2-3 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.
February 2009 S 1 8 15 22
M 2 9 16 23
T 3 10 17 24
W 4 11 18 25
T 5 12 19 26
F S 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28
Scrapbooking – Trade materials, socialize and work on your own book. 6–8 pm. Glenwood Community Center – 434.799.6469. Wild Wonderful Weather – Learn about the science of forecasting the weather. 8 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.
February 13 & 14
Crossing of the Dan 228th Anniversary: (See story page 10)
February 13 (thru 15)
Romantic Comedy. Production about a Broadway writer and the women in his life. 2/13 & 14 - 7:30 pm, 2/15 2:30 pm. Gretna Movie Theatre. Gretna Little Theatre – 434.228.1778.
February 14
Valentine Dance – Entertainment, dancing, light hors d’oeuvres & cash bar. 8 pm-12 am. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. Danville Riverview Rotary Club. 434.799.6400 X 261. Fit For A Princess – Come dressed as your favorite princess and enjoy games, activities, a craft and snacks all centered on the princess theme. Ages 3-5: 10:30 am. Coates Center. 434.797.8848. Averett Baseball vs. Randolph-Macon College. 11 am. AU – 434.791.5621. Averett Basketball vs. Christopher Newport University. Women’s 2 pm. Men’s 4 pm. AU – 434.791.5621.
February 15
Averett Baseball vs. Bridgewater College. 2 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. Averett Basketball vs. Shenandoah University. Women’s 2 pm. Men’s 4 pm. AU – 434.791.5621.
February 16
Financial Aid Workshop. Averett University. (See ad page 16) Clay Bead Making Classes. 4-5:15 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.
February 17
Home Improvements Class – Recreate a living space. 10 am. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.
February 18
Alzheimer’s Presentation – Caregiver Training & Stress Relief. 12–1 pm. Loyalton of Danville. 434.792.3700 x30. Ladies 50+ Self Defense Class. 12:30–1:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216. Wednesday Club Program – (See story page 3) Fetch! Lab - Fetch Lab kids are treated to an afternoon of pizza and science challenge games in honor of their hard work throughout the winter. Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.
February 18 (thru March 11)
Rags to Riches Rug – Use a floor loom using the ancient art of turning rags into useful and attractive rugs. Wed 6-9 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
Evince Magazine
February 18 (thru March 26)
Art with Flo – Wet-on-wet technique of oil painting. Wed or Thurs. Ballou Annex 6-9pm or Glenwood 9:30am-12:30pm: 434.797.8848.
February 19
How to Save Money with Public Transit – The “ins and outs” of how to use the Danville Mass Transit System. 11am-12pm. City Armory 434.797.8848. Averett Baseball vs. University of Maine - Presque Isle. 1 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. Scrapbooking – Make memorable books that can be passed down from generation to generation. 3:30–4:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216. Sky Watchers – Examine the winter triangle made up of stars from Orion, Canis Major and Canis Minor. Nightfall. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.
February 19 (thru March 19)
Intermediate Oil Painting – Learn how to paint more details using richer colors and textures. Thurs. 10 am–12 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
February 20
The History & Mystery of Wine – Dr. Engel traces the ancient origins of wine and continues the story through today. 6:30-8:30 pm. Piedmont Arts – 276.632.3221. Classic Movie Night – 6 pm. Glenwood Community Center – 434.799.6469.
February 20 (thru 28)
Escanaba in Da Moonlight – Hilariously twisted comedy about five Yoopers - residents of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula - and their escapades at a ramshackle deer camp on the eve of the opening day of hunting season. Fri/Sat/Sun 8 pm (2/22-3 pm). The Prizery. Halifax Co. Little Theatre – 434.572.8339.
February 20 (thru March 1)
Don’t Cry for Me Margaret Mitchell. (See ad page 10 – and story on page 15)
February 21
Hanging Rock State Park Hike 8 am–6 pm. Meet at Ballou Park. 434.799.5215. Formally Yours – Sell your no-longerneeded wedding dress, tuxedo, church attire, prom gear, shoes, etc. 8 am– 12 pm. Coates Center – 434.799.6564. Instant Piano For Hopelessly Busy People – 9 am-12 pm. Ballou Annex. $65 - 434.797.8848. Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) Show. Averett University - (See ad page 16) Special Saturday - Tremendous T-Rex & Friends with games, crafts, and fun-filled activities.10 am-12 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185. Averett Baseball vs. Capital University. 1 pm. AU– 434.791.5621. Digital Photos: Nuts & Bolts – Learn know how to store, edit and share images. 1-4 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160. Mardi Gras Celebration. (See ad pg. 16) Bluegrass at the Rives Concert Series – Mark Templeton & Pocket Change. 7-9 pm. Historic Rives Theatre, Martinsville – 276.638.2423.
February 21 & 28
Log Cabin Quilt Blocks – Create quilting pieces that can be used in a quilt or pillow. 9 am–12 pm. Southern Virginia Artisan Center, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.
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February 22
There’s Always Room for Cello – Cellist Ben Wyatt and soprano Ariana Wyatt. Chatham Concert Series. Emmanuel Episcopal Church – 66 North Main St. Donation at the door. 8 pm Averett Baseball vs. Eastern Mennonite University. 12 pm. AU – 434.791.5621.
February 24
Averett Baseball vs. Southern Virginia University. 12 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. Polliwogs & Science Stars Polliwogs experiment with floating and sinking. Stars explore the colors of the rainbow. Ages 3–4 1–2 pm; Ages 5–7 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.
February 24 (thru March)
Life guarding Lessons. Tues/Thurs 4-7pm. YMCA – 434.792.0621.
February 25
Doodle Bugs! - Dinosaurs. Uncover information and make a dinosaur craft. Ages 3-5. 10 am & 3 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185. Alzheimer’s Presentation – Who Can I Call for Help? 12–1 pm. Ballou Center - 434.792.3700 x30. Getting Ready for Your Spring Garden. 2 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216. Yappy Hour. Pet education class – puppy/kitten proofing your house. 6-7 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.
February 26
Broadway Adventure – (See story page 10) Tween Night – Make slipper socks. Age 10-12. 6 pm. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326.
February 26 (thru 28)
Red Stocking Revue - Broadway Bound. Kirby Theatre, Roxboro (See ad page 16) Barefoot in the Park. Averett University - (See ad page 16)
February 27
Friday Night Campfire – Enjoy s’mores, marshmallows, hot chocolate, and fireside stories. 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Park. 434.799.5215.
February 28
The Big Read Kickoff Event – Activities surrounding the Harper Lee classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird will feature speakers, a book giveaway, a chance to win a basket full of Mockingbird goodies, and light refreshments.1-3 pm. Piedmont Arts – 276.632.3221. SoundCheck – Open mic night. 7-10 pm. Chatham Community Center – 434.432.3115 x1.
Upcoming Events
Harris, Harvey, Neal & Co., LLP Congratulations to our Super CPAs, honored by peers again in November 2008 for upholding standards of high quality and superior client service. L. Samuel Saunders, Partner Jerry A. Foster, Partner Brad S. Reynolds, Partner Vaden L. Wright, Partner Katherine D. McDaniel, Partner John R Neal, Partner Mark W. Foster, Partner Stephen M. Gay, Partner Our Young CPA Recipient: Corbin H. Pulliam
March 2
Swim Lessons. 6:30-7:15 pm & 7:20-8:05 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621.
March 3
The Commedia Aladdin. Grades K-5. 10 am & 12:30 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – 336.694.4591.
March 5
Leahy. 8 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – 336.694.4591.
March 7
Pancake Breakfast - Fundraiser. 7:30-11 am. Christ Episcopal Church. Pilot International – 434.799.9029.
Harris, Harvey, Neal & Co., LLP Certified Public Accountants
2309 Riverside Drive • Danville, VA 24543 • 434.792.3220 120 South Main Street • Chatham, VA 24531 • 434.432.2441 554 North Main Street • South Boston, VA 24592 • 434.575.7914
www.HHNCPA.com
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February 2009
Attracting Birds to Your Backyard by Vickie Fuquay
With the shaky economy, the housing crisis, and the fluctuating oil prices, we are all watching our expenses these days. For that reason, the newest trend in vacations is stacations, which translates as Stay At Home Vacations. Therefore, we need to make our piece of the world a sanctuary and spend time and effort to make it a better place for both ourselves and nature. Enjoy a stacation by creating a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. Backyard birding has quickly become a top hobby in America. For years, it has been trendy to erect a feeder or bird box, but with the institution of the National Wildlife Federation’s Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program, a certification effort was established to prove that backyards could be friendly not only to birds but to other critters as well. We are making progress in providing a safe habitat for wildlife to the tune of over 100,000 backyards and public gardens being certified as Backyard Wildlife Habitats (mine included). What does it take to have your backyard certified as a wildlife habitat? Surprisingly, very little effort or expense. Provide water throughout the year. A simple birdbath with fresh, clean water is a good start. During the winter make sure it isn’t frozen. The water supply can be as elaborate as a pond, waterfall or a shallow stream, but for certification all that is needed is a birdbath. Install native plants for both cover and food. Plants that are evergreen and dense will provide some shelter from bad weather in winter. Trees and shrubs that produce fruit, berries and nuts will help feed wildlife and attract a wider variety of birds. Be very careful about insecticides, fertilizers and fungicides used on the lawn and garden. Talk to a local
photo by Tony Adcock
garden center about safe solutions to gardening problems. Put out nesting boxes. Make sure the boxes have ventilation and drainage holes. Boxes should NOT include a perch and must be easy to open for monitoring and cleaning. Learn about proper placement of boxes and make sure they are baffled against predators. For more information, visit www. vabluebirdconnection.com for nest box and baffle details. Offer bird food in feeders. The greater the variety of food offered and the types of feeders used will attract a greater diversity to your yard. February is National Wild Bird Feeding Month, so take the opportunity to learn what the birds like. If you follow all the suggestions, within one year the bird population will increase from 20 to 50 species that might visit your yard. So far this year, I’ve personally tracked 64 species in my backyard habitat. Raywood Landscape Center, 165 James Road, is hosting educational programs and a bird photo contest during February. Call 434.822.1400 for more information and see ad on page 4. To learn more and to certify your yard in the Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program visit www.nwf.org.
DRBA to Visit Reynolds Homestead by T Butler The Dan River Basin Association’s First Saturday Outing on February 7 will be a visit to the Reynolds Homestead in Critz, Virginia, including a 1.5-mile loop hike and tours of the historic house and grounds. Participants will meet at 10:00 a.m. at the entrance to the Continuing Education Center at Reynolds Homestead. Recently named a Commonwealth Campus of Virginia Tech, Reynolds Homestead features the birthplace and boyhood home of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds, a Continuing Education Center, and a Forest Resources Research Center in the midst of 717 acres of fields and woodlands. The easy morning hike on a well-developed walking trail will be guided by Kyle Peer, Superintendent of the Forest Resources Research Center, who will discuss the ongoing forestry management projects close to the trail. Along the way hikers will see the historic spring that inspired the name of this 18th Century tobacco estate, Rock Spring Plantation. Views from the trail located near the face of the Blue Ridge Mountains include the nearest peak and the curiously named No Business Mountain because visitors had “no business” looking for the family still. The hike will conclude at the slave cemetery, one of the two graveyards on the property. Afternoon tours of the registered state and national landmark historic two-story brick house will be offered. Built in 1843, it was restored in 1970 and includes many of the original family furnishings. Participants in the outing should bring drinks and lunch, wear hiking boots and layers of water-shedding artificial fabric or wool, and be prepared for rain or wind. Reynolds Homestead is located at 463 Homestead Lane, Critz, Virginia. Directions from Danville: Travel on US 58 West approximately 20 miles past Martinsville. Turn right onto Abram Penn Highway, indicated by the second of two brown signs. Drive about 3 miles and bear left onto Homestead Lane. Drive to the end of the short road. For more information, call 276.694.4449 or wynbtyk@embarqmail.com.
Evince Magazine
Say “Hello” to Bye Bye Birdie
Fiddle-Dee-Dee: DLT Tackles the Writing of Gone with The Wind by J.B. Durham
by Linda Lawrence Dalton Danvillians can say “Hello” to one of the most memorable musical comedies of all time, when Bye Bye Birdie, winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, comes to town on Tuesday, February 3. This rocking and rollicking production has been wowing audiences every since it was written 50 years ago during a period when America witnessed the emergence of a new kind of kid—the teenager. Unlike young people of the 1930s and 1940s, who had worries like the Great Depression and World War II on their minds, youngsters in the 1950s found themselves with free time, some spending money, and their own new style of music—rock and roll. Bye Bye Birdie became the first Broadway production to recognize this fact and put rock and roll on the musical theatre stage. The plot of the story is simple and fun. When rock star and teenage heartthrob, Conrad Birdie, is drafted into the Army, teenagers everywhere go crazy, and the star’s songwriter, Albert, faces unemployment. To make the most of the situation, Albert and his girlfriend organize a national contest in which one lucky girl from the Birdie Fan Club will win a farewell kiss from Conrad Birdie to be televised on the popular Ed Sullivan Show. Kim McAfee turns out to be the lucky winner, and the singer’s whole entourage moves
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photo © 2008 Carol Rosegg
into her quiet Midwestern home— much to the frustration of her irritable father and her jealous boyfriend. This sets the stage for chaos and a series of romantic complications. The musical’s momentous hit tunes include “Put on a Happy Face,” “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “One Last Kiss,” “One Boy,” and “What’s the Matter with Kids Today?” It also includes the rousing salute to the glory of Ed Sullivan and his legendary TV show in a tune entitled “Hymn for a Sunday Evening.” This stage adaptation to Michael Stewart’s book with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Lee Adams will have you laughing out loud, tapping your feet, singing along, and feeling good that you said, “Hello” to Bye Bye Birdie. This performance is the last of the Danville Area Arts & Humanities Association’s season and will take place at 7:30 pm in the George Washington High School Auditorium, 701 Broad Street. For more information, call 434. 792.6965 or visit the A&H office at 635 Main Street.
It has been said that people who like sausage should never watch it being made. With this premise in mind, The Little Theatre of Danville tackle the creation of one of the most iconic of American film triumphs, Gone With The Wind, in their next production, Don’t Cry For Me, Margaret Mitchell. This comedy by Virginia Cate and Duke Ernsberger delves deeply into the hilarious results when producer David Selznick finds himself having to come up with the script for the film classic in one week. To this end, he locks himself, director Victor Fleming, and writer Ben Hecht in his office, insisting that no one can leave until the script is finished. It’s this writing process, the one that led to the birthin’ of the movie, that Cate and Ernsberger have mined for laughs. The play is based loosely on facts: Selznick interviewed over 1,000 actresses before finding his Scarlett O’Hara; dozens of writers were hired and fired before the producer had a script that met his approval; and Selznick went through a number of directors, all of whom failed to bring Margaret Mitchell’s vision of the antebellum South to life. But that’s where Cate and Ernsberger leave historical fact in favor of hysterical farce. In a last-ditch effort to finish the job and get a script he could love, Selznick pulls director Victor Fleming off the yellow-brick road of “Munchkinland”, where he was filming The Wizard of Oz, enlists Fleming’s help in practically kidnapping legendary writer Ben Hecht, and sets them both to completely rewriting the script for Gone With the Wind. This hectic interpretation of the effort to script Mitchell’s legendary work was a natural choice for Director Jane Reid. “I fell in love with Gone With the Wind when I was a little girl,” she says, “and I’ve always thought it was one of the most beautiful films ever made. When I saw this play produced at the Barter Theatre, I just knew I wanted to bring it to Danville and direct it here.” Reid believes the frantic antics of the three men trying to create a full script under an insane deadline will be one of the funniest productions Danville audiences have ever seen. In addition to directing, Reid plays the role of Miss Peabody. The role of visionary producer David Selznick is filled by Steve Petrick and Barry Haulsee is the skeptical director Victor Fleming. Hecht, the harried and put-upon writer, is portrayed by Donnie Haymore. Don’t Cry For Me, Margaret Mitchell will be presented in the North Theatre, 629 North Main Street at 7:30 pm February 20-21 and 27-28 and at 2 pm February 22 and March 1. Admission is $12. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Danville Arts & Humanities, 635 Main Street, and Rippe’s, 559 Main Street. For more information visit www.danvillelittletheatre.org.
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February 2009
Person County • Roxboro, NC - That Is! Rave On!
February 2 7:30 pm Kirby Theater
Upcoming Event Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) Show Feb. 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The Buddy Holly concert that never was! For more information visit www.ArtsInPerson.com or call 336.597.1709
Red Stocking Revue
BROADWAY BOUND
February 26-28, 2009 7:30 pm • Kirby Theater
Averett Equestrain Center Providence, N.C. Free Information: 434-791-5642 THE FRANK KIMBROUGH TRIO & MICHAEL BROWN March 14, 2009 7:30 pm • Kirby Theater
New York Jazz Pianist Frank Kimbrough will join talents with Michael Brown in a unique mix of “Sound and Sight”. Mr. Brown is an outstanding muralist and artist from Chapel Hill, NC. The two will be inspired by each other’s energy to create a unique artistic work on stage during the performance. For more information visit www.ArtsInPerson.com or call 336.597.1709
A compilation of songs, music, dance and comedy/drama from a variety of popular Broadway shows. 336.322.1797
For more information visit www.visitroxboronc.com or call 336.597.2689
Financial Aid Workshop Feb. 16 Free Register: 434-791-4996
Barefoot in the Park Feb. 26-28, 7:30 p.m.
Pritchett Auditorium Adults $8, Students/Senior Citizens $6 Tickets: 434-791-5712
For additional events visit: www.averett.edu/aucalendar