Evince Magazine April 2009 by Evince Magazine

Evince Magazine

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April 2009

March Contents

3 Running the Musical Gamut from A to Z…to Jazz! by Gary Grant Two Wine Festivals Scheduled in April by Joyce Wilburn 4 Bryant Heard Houses to Be Featured in Garden Week Tour by Caroline Neal Begin Garden Week Tour in Chatham by Mary Catherine Plaster

Editor's Note Stop reading this for a minute and take a peek at the outside world, because it is Showtime for Mother Nature and admission is free. Oops! Did you spot something unsightly? Unfortunately, in this scene, the animal with the largest brain doesn’t always use his intelligence to protect the stage for Nature’s annual spring production. By the way, what part are you playing? I hope it’s the starring role in the Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup Campaign, which encourages everyone to take greater responsibility for improving their community’s environment, which includes your own living space. Our Evince writers are here to help. Read and laugh with Linda Lemery as she struggles to make her yard maintenance-free in Reflecting Forward. Plan an outdoor adventure after reading Paddle, Picnic and Hike with the Dan River Basin Association. Enjoy two garden week tours featured on page 4 or plant your own herb garden with the help of Vickie Fuquay in Spice It Up with Home-Grown Herbs. Be sure to read Watch the Butterfly Release on April 18 and then see what beauty looks like when it soars. There is a calendar full of events waiting for you on pages 12-13, because you’re not expected to be a spectator. Accept the role of active participant in Nature’s annual production and in the community life around you. We all benefit when everyone plays a part.

5 COVER STORY / Connie Nyholm – Playing to Win by Joyce Wilburn 6 Paddle, Picnic and Hike with the DRBA by T Butler Middlesex Author Jeffrey Eugenides to Speak at AU by Emily Cropp 7 She Said He Said / Anti-Social Behavior by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham 8 VIPER Attracts Celebrity Rocker by Deborah Morehead

Spice It Up with Home-Grown Herbs by Vickie Fuquay Around the Table / Going Green for Spring by Annelle Williams

Watch the Butterfly Release on April 18 by Nancy Tait Points North/Views from the Hill by Alice Saunders 11 Second Thoughts / Beware of the Ides of March by Kim Clifton 12 April Calendar 14 Relecting Forward / Maintenance-Free Living: Not! by Linda Lemery Halifax County Heritage Festival Promises Family Fun by Cathy Cole Three New Free Exhibits at the DMFAH by Lynne Bjarnesen

THE

OICE of action

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

Lynne Bjarnesen, T Butler, Kim Clifton, Cathy Cole, Emily Cropp, Linda Lawrence Dalton, Kathryn Davis, Vickie Fuquay, Gary Grant, April Hawkins, Dena Hill, Amy Holmes, Linda Lemery, Deborah Morehead, Caroline Neal, Larry Oldham, Mary Catherine Plaster, Alice Saunders, Nancy Tait, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams

Business Manager Paul Seiple paul@evincemagazine.com (434.791.7353) Sales Manager Larry Oldham larry@evincemagazine.com (434.728.3713)

10 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath by Amy Holmes

Ve ince

Come to Derby Day in Danville by Linda Lawrence Dalton

15 Book Review / Very Valentine: A Novel by April Hawkins Looking at the Big Picture Kathryn Davis

On the Cover:

Photo of Connie Nyholm by Danny Vaden. See story on page 5.

Sales Associates Laura Kondas (434.836.2796) lkondas317@mac.com Kim Demont (434.836.1247) kim@evincemagazine.com Misty Cook (434.728.2905) 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

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 Amy Holmes is a full-time mom, a freelance writer/ editor/translator, and a volunteer storyteller.

April Hawkins is a Danville native and second- grade teacher at Sacred Heart School whose salary goes to support her addiction to books.

Cathy Cole is a native of Halifax County. She and husband Johnny are former owners of WHLF Radio in South Boston, VA, and have two grown children. Since retiring in 2006, Cathy enjoys spending time with family

Nancy Tait Nancy is the public relations manager for the Danville Science Center, the Science Museum of Virginia, and the Virginia Aviation Museum.

Deadline for submission of May stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. on Monday, April 20. 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.

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Running the Musical Gamut from A to Z ... to Jazz! by Gary Grant

An evening from A to Z--that's Awadagin (Pratt) and Zuill (Bailey), the dynamic duo of piano-cello masterworks--awaits seat-holders in Averett University’s Pritchett Auditorium on Friday, April 3. Three weeks later, it's time for something completely different—jazz, bubbling and sizzling in the hot hands and lips of masters of this indigenous art raised to its zenith in authentic, all-American performance. The incomparable Smithsonian Jazz Orchestra revs up George Washington Auditorium on Friday, April 24. The first of these concerts on April 3 at AU, promises an intimate, sumptuous piano-cello evening, a reprise for many in the Danville audience of the extraordinary keyboard virtuosity of Awadagin Pratt recalling his masterful first Danville performance in January 2007. This time, Awadagin's sensitive piano will meld musically with Zuill's cello extraordinaire. As teenagers, these remarkable soloists first crossed paths off hours, over the ping pong table at a music festival. Twenty-five years later, their soaring solo careers continue to converge in frequent collaborations. The second concert on April 24 is a first for its sponsor, the 56-yearold Danville Concert Association. The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra recreates big band jazz as its composers and arrangers intended it to be played, stripping away intervening changes and alterations. Rediscovering old classics, the SJMO has premiered these new discoveries and more recently has begun premiering new works. Composed of 18 musicians drawn from across the United States, the orchestra plays authentic and compelling performances of the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, and many other masters. Founded in 1990 with an appropriation from the U.S. Congress, the SJMO embodies the tradition and importance of jazz in American culture and its status as a national treasure. The orchestra, led by Artistic and Musical Director, David Baker, serves as the orchestra-in-residence at the National Museum of American History, Division of Cultural History. The SJMO has a radio series, Jazz Smithsonian, heard on more than 88 public radio stations across the U.S. and in six nations. Advance tickets for either concert are $25 (students $10) and available from the Danville Concert Association by calling 434.792.9242 or danvilleconcerts.net. Tickets also are available at the box office an hour prior to the performance in Averett's Pritchett Auditorium on Mt. View Avenue (April 3) and George Washington Auditorium on Broad Street (April 24). The April 3 performance is sponsored in part by Averett University in honor of the 150th anniversary of its founding and the inauguration of its 24th president, Dr. Tiffany Franks.

Two Wine Festivals Scheduled in April by Joyce Wilburn

There are two area opportunities for having fun at Virginia wine festivals during April. Take a tour of 13 Virginia wineries at the 8th Annual Danville Wine Festival on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at the Danville Community Market on Craghead Street. Flipside will provide the background music for sampling wine, eating good food, checking out crafts, socializing with friends, and winning door prizes. Cost is $10. Send check or money order to: K of C Council 6143, c/o William Browning, 324 Starmont Drive, Danville VA 24540. For more information, call 434.797.1147. A week later on Saturday, April 25, relax on historic lawns, sip a little wine, delight your senses with music and delicious food, and enjoy the undiscovered pleasures of Southern Virginia at the Clarksville Lake Country Chamber of Commerce's 3rd Annual Lake Country Wine Festival in beautiful Clarksville on the Lake about an hour’s drive from Danville. Twelve Virginia wineries will be offering samples of 90 different wines in downtown Clarksville from noon until 5 p.m. Local merchants will present shopping and dining specials along the quaint streets surrounding the festival and well-known musicians Meadows & Taylor will be performing live throughout the event. Tickets are $20 which includes a festival souvenir wine glass. For more information call the Clarksville Chamber of Commerce at 1.800.557.5582 or visit www.clarksvilleva.com.

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April 2009

ASK DR. JUDITH

Bryant Heard Houses to Be Featured in Garden Week Tour by Caroline Neal

Judith A. Ostrowski, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Danville ENT Associates, Inc.

Q: Dr. Judith, How do I choose an audiologist?

A: Audiologists are the most qualiﬁed

to perform hearing evaluations, make recommendations, refer for medical treatment and fit hearing instruments. An audiologist should have a doctoral degree, an Au.D. or Ph.D. in audiology although there are some audiologists who hold only a masters degree. You want to make sure that person to whom you are entrusting your hearing is educated and update on latest information and technology. Location is important in that if you need to acquire hearing instruments you want someone who is easily accessible. It is best to choose someone who is in one office five days week. If there are concerns of ringing in the ear, ear pain or dizziness it is recommended to go to an audiologist who is connected to an Ear-Nose-Throat Specialist (ENT). This allows you be seen by an ENT, Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant on the same day as your hearing evaluation. Most importantly, choose someone you feel you can trust, someone who has your best interests at heart,not their own.

Hearing Testing - Pediatric & Adult Hearing Aids and Aural Rehabilitation Assistive Listening Devices Custom-Made Swim Plugs Custom-Made Hearing Protection Race Car Driving Sets Payment Plan Available

159 Executive Dr. • Suite C Danville, Virginia 24541 Fax 434.792.0468

434.792.0830 • 800.368.7183 www.denthc.com Hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The 1922 home of Danville architect Bryant Heard will be open to Historic Garden Week visitors for the first time on Thursday, April 23. An elegant Georgian-style residence of red brick with white trim located at 555 West Main Street, it is now the home of Dimitrios Zafiris. Also on the tour is a smaller redbrick Bryant Heard house at 154 Hawthorne Drive, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Randy Adams, which was built in 1953 but now has a jewel of a 21st century kitchen. A newly-constructed dwelling on the tour is the English cottage-style cluster home of Frank Grogan, Jr., at 457 County Club Drive. Walls of windows provide extensive views of its natural setting on the Dan River. The Country Club Inn next door to the Grogan residence was built over 100 years ago by Dan River Mills, Inc. and is distinguished by four fireplaces, deep crown

molding and five pairs of French doors opening onto a porch with an incredible view of the Dan and the mountains beyond. Refreshments will be served here from 10 a.m. to noon and from 3p.m. to 5 p.m. Tour visitors will also be welcomed at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, which is the restored 1859 Sutherlin Mansion also known as the Last Capitol of the Confederacy; the Langhorne House, 117 Broad Street, restored 1874 birthplace of Nancy Langhorne, Viscountess Astor, and childhood home of her sister Irene, the original Gibson Girl; the Danville Science Center,

677 Craghead Street, housed in two 1899 Southern Railway buildings in the heart of the old tobacco warehouse district; and the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research, 150 Slayton Avenue off Route 58 East, a stunning steel-and-glass structure offering state-of-the art technology in four research centers and a conference center. A Garden Club of Virginia event, the local tour is sponsored by The Garden Club of Danville and The Gabriella Garden Club. Additional information may be obtained by calling 434.791.3249 or 434.797.2835.

Begin Garden Week Tour in Chatham by Mary Catherine Plaster

The 76th Annual Historic Garden Week in Virginia begins in our area with The Chatham Garden Club offering an exceptional opportunity to view three sites that depict significant buildings from the early years of the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. The three-storied Georgiandesigned Coles Hill home pictured on the cover of the Garden Club of Virginia guidebook was completed in 1817 after seven years of construction. Owned by generations of the same family, every room promises a museum-type visit with historic memorabilia and period heirlooms. The family cemetery and school house are also on tour. Located eight miles from the county seat of Pittsylvania on a 1,000-acre working farm, its 10-acre yard is nestled in 150 acres designated for conservation preservation. The Heitzler home on Main Street in the center of Chatham was built in 1916 by Lawson Carter. The1½story house features the grandeur of early bungalows and retains elements of both Neo-federal and early Craftsman architecture. Embellishments over the years

include handsome stained glass and modern accommodations showcasing antique furnishings and interesting collections. Visitors to the backyard will discover an original goldfish pond and a summer house enhanced by a fireplace and screened porch. The Van Voorhis Lecture Hall and adjoining terrace on Chatham Hall’s 362-acre campus were recently completed and dedicated to honor a former rector and his wife. Its 3,788 square-foot design utilizes principles of green construction with a geothermal system. The versatile hall with wood floors, expandable stage and high-beam ceiling accommodates lectures, small

theatre productions in the round, musical concerts, art exhibitions, student dances, banquets and receptions and has a seating capacity of 320. Refreshments will be served on the terrace. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on the day of the tour, Sunday, April 19, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call 434. 432. 8875 or visit www.vagardenweek.org.

Evince Magazine

riving over the river and through the woods along curvy country roads to Virginia International Raceway just outside Danville feels like going to grandma’s house for a Sunday visit. Parking near a red barn, hearing chirping birds, and soaking in the pastoral setting, while walking toward an office building disguised as a barn continues the illusion. But once inside, visitors discover there is no snoozing white-haired grandma in a rocking chair waiting for company. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Although VIR co-owner Connie Nyholm’s hair is stylishly short and silver, any other comparison to a sedentary woman in a rocking chair comes to a screeching halt, when she greets newcomers with a dazzling smile, a firm handshake, and an energy that can’t be contained. Explaining the source of her enthusiasm for life and her business success at VIR, the mother of a college-age son says with humor in her voice, “My sister thinks that on a scale of 1-10, I’m a 15. I’ve never let anything hold me back and I’m always looking for a new challenge, excitement, and adventure. I’ve been that way since I was little.” If Connie wasn’t born with the knowledge of how to be successful while enjoying life, it was learned at a very young age. “I was about 5 years old when my mom sent me outside to pick up acorns for $3 a bucket. I hired kids in the neighborhood to do the same job for 50 cents. My mom was mad, but my dad said to leave me alone because I was being an entrepreneur,” laughs Connie as she relaxes behind her desk in the VIR administrative building. From that first experience with running an acorn business until she became managing partner of VIR, the Martinsville native has had as many twists and turns in her life as the 3.27 miles of VIR tracks: an economics degree from William and Mary

Connie Nyholm at VIR in her 1953 Allard J2X. photo by Victor Newman

Connie Nyholm

Playing to Win by Joyce Wilburn

College, a short stint with Procter & Gamble in Cincinnati, a career as a commercial real estate broker in several states while based in New York for 20 years, and a lifedefining introduction to Harvey Siegel, a real estate developer and vintage sports car racer who made Connie his VIR partner. When the future business partners met, Siegel had just

signed a contract for the VIR property and was looking for help in developing it. He asked if she might be interested in returning to her native Virginia and reopening the road racing facility that had been closed since 1974. Connie eagerly agreed to take on the project in 1998 and within a few years VIR was doing so well that she became an equal partner in the track that is currently booked nearly year-round for racing, testing, schools, television productions, and corporate events. But Connie isn’t content sitting behind the desk and hearing the roar of cars racing in the background on one of the world’s most beautiful, safe, and challenging circuits. That’s not her style. Six or more times a year, she leaves the staff of 374, suits up, jumps in one of her four racing cars, and competes in the male-dominated sport. Describing what it’s like to race, her bright-blue eyes sparkle. “I love my heart going through my chest, going into the turn and not backing out--making the other guy give it up to me,” she says while releasing a joyous laugh. “That’s the best part. Everybody can go fast in a straight line, but I love the turns and I play to win.” Play to win. That is something Connie has been doing since she was a child picking up acorns. For more information about VIR, visit www.virclub.com or call 434.822.7700. Pick up a free copy of the new VIR booklet with stories, the season schedule, and more information wherever Evince is distributed. Directions: From Route 58 East of Danville, take Route 62 South to Milton, North Carolina, through the traffic light and onto Route 57 South. Continue1/2 mile and turn left onto Racetrack Road. VIR is 1 mile on the left. Total travel time from Downtown Danville is approximately 20 minutes.

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April 2009

Middlesex Author Jeffrey Eugenides to Speak at AU by Emily Cropp

Person County’s Mayo Lake offers a beautiful setting for the DRBA’s April 4th paddle, picnic, and hike, which is free and open to the public.

Paddle, Picnic and Hike with the DRBA by T Butler The Dan River Basin Association’s First Saturday Outing on April 4 will explore both water and land trails at Mayo Lake in Person County, North Carolina. The 2800-acre reservoir-lake with an 85-mile shoreline located near Roxboro is largely undeveloped and wooded. Meeting at 10:00 a.m., participants will first paddle a two-mile canoe/ kayak trail. Beginning and ending at a dock specifically designed for the use of paddlers, the loop trail will follow markers in the water that give information about the lake, fish and other wildlife. After completing the water trail, paddlers will lunch at lakeside picnic tables and afterwards will have the option of hiking on the Wood Duck Trail and Wild Turkey Trail, which have a combined distance of just over a mile. Mayo Lake, located at 599 Neals Store Road, is 10 miles from Roxboro and 3 miles from the Virginia line. Like the Mayo River, it is named for Major William Mayo, a member of William Byrd’s 1728 survey party, “a Virginia official, land speculator and surveyor.” Participants will meet at 10 a.m. at the amphitheater parking lot. They should bring boat, paddles, life jackets, hiking boots or walking shoes, drinks, lunch and a back-up change of clothing. Also, wear watershedding artificial fabric or wool (not cotton and not jeans). For more information and directions contact Paul Johnson at 434.476.7599 or kpauljohnson@yahoo.com.

Averett University: Celebrating 150 Years April 20 Averett’s Authors on Campus Series Presents Pulitzer-Prize Winning Author Jeffery Eugenides 7:30 pm Pritchett Auditorium, FREE (We suggest you arrive early as seating is limited for this special event)

Eugenides will discuss his award-winning novel Middlesex, an Oprah Book Club selection. Information: 434-791-4993 www.averett.edu/aucalendar

Jeffrey Eugenides’ novel Middlesex grabs readers with its enigmatic first four words “I was born twice” and continues to engage them in the life of protagonist Calliope Stephanides, who was born with a genetic mutation. Averett University invites you to hear the story behind the story when Eugenides discusses his PulitzerPrize winning novel on Monday, April 20. “I will be talking about the writing of Middlesex, the process, the difficulties, some of the problems I encountered in writing the novel and how I solved them,” Eugenides says of his Averett appearance. Middlesex was published in 2002 to critical acclaim and then surged in popularity after being named a 2007 Oprah Book Club Selection. It took Eugenides approximately six years to complete the work that tells the story of Calliope who was born female and who eventually became male and was known as Cal. Eugenides explains that the story looks at the “oddness and fate of genetic mutation.” Once Calliope is grown, she tries to trace the gene as it passes through three generations of the Stephanides family—through Greece, to Detroit, in times of war, prohibition and race riots—finally discovering a family secret. “I don’t have an agenda,” Eugenides says of his writing process. “I write books that I hope seize the reader’s attention and give a fair amount of narrative pleasure;

I hope they are engaged by the story.” A professor of creative writing at Princeton University, Eugenides is also the author of The Virgin Suicides, which was his first novel, and several short stories including Air Mail, Timeshare and My Mistress’ Sparrow is Dead: Great Love Stories from Chekhov to Munro. Both Middlesex and The Virgin Suicides are available at the Averett University Bookstore.

Eugenides will speak on Monday, April 20, at 7:30 p.m. in Pritchett Auditorium on Mt. View Avenue. This free public event is part of AU’s "Authors on Campus" Series and the school’s 150th anniversary celebration. For more information contact Dr. Larry Wilburn at 434.791.4993. Seating is limited, and guests are urged to arrive early.

Evince Magazine She Said by Dena Hill Anti-Social Behavior It is of some concern to me that you are becoming anti-social. Over the past few weeks it seems that every time our friends call to invite us to do something fun, you have other choices that seem to be more important. What is more important than bike riding and breathing in fresh air and exercise? When the neighbors wanted us to go snow sledding, I thought, “What a joy to feel the fresh air and go sledding up and down the street and over the hills in the park. Wouldn’t it be fun to take Sophie out in the snow- her paws sinking up to her tummy wondering how to get them out?” Where were you in all this frivolity? Sitting at home looking out the window or eating a snack. Sometimes our friends want to go to their favorite restaurant but you hold out for your favorite. So much for winning friends and influencing people You are a good guy, but sometimes I see you as a couch potato. This might be a man thing for all I know because it seems to be a trait in a lot of men. I am not saying you need to run a 10K with me (although that would be nice) or go for a walk with me (that would help you regain your high school physique), but more exercise would insure that we could grow old together. I am just saying, make an effort to be in touch with others, enjoy the fresh air, be true to your friends and let them come first sometimes. You know what they say about “keeping Mama happy”.

he Said by Larry Oldham You don't want me to name everything I did last month to keep Mama happy. We don't have enough room or enough time for everyone to read the good deeds I have done for you. I do it out of love, of course, but somehow, they always slip your mind. When have I ever declined an offer to go out to eat? Just last night I offered to go buy us a pizza and you refused because of your relationship with your doctor and all this stuff about cholesterol. He would never know, if we occasionally sneaked a pizza into the house for a little quality food. I eat the salads and give the quiche to the dog, so one bad meal shouldn't set you back too far. As for the snow, I love it. I love to see it falling. I love to see it on the trees, but going out and cavorting in the cold mess, getting wet, and possibly catching a cold, no thanks! I like our friends. I even suggested they come over and bring hot chocolate...but after all that sledding stuff, not before. You took pictures and I enjoyed looking at them. Our friends took videos and I am anxiously waiting to see them, but as far as gallivanting in the snow, I have no desire. I never objected to your going and having fun. I was happy for you and happy I didn’t have to go. I was free to read my book and look out the window and watch everyone enjoying the winter. As far as Mama being happy, I called her and she said it is always a joy to hear her favorite son's voice. So Mama is happy.

She said He said

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

Q: How do I choose the right agent? A: A good agent is worth their weight in gold, but do not think all are equal. The best source for identifying an outstanding agent is referrals. Talk to others who have recently been through the buying or selling experience. The ideal agent is someone that makes you feel comfortable and who will commit the amount of time that you demand. For all your real estate needs, call Dale Castiglione at Wilkins and Company Realtors.

Dale Bray Castiglione, Associate Broker / Licensed in VA & NC

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: edale3@verizon.net

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VIPER Attracts Celebrity Rocker by Deborah Morehead When singer/songwriter Neil Young and his Linc Volt alternative energy team booked the Virginia Institute for Performance Engineering and Research (VIPER) engine and drive-train lab at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) to test the rocker’s 1959 Lincoln Continental series hybrid vehicle, VIPER’s clientele changed considerably. VIPER’s primary customers are the military, race teams and those connected with the automobile industry. Young’s 2 ½ ton Lincoln Continental Mark IV convertible has undergone a transformation from a gas guzzler to an electric vehicle that gets more than 60 mpg. The team is aiming for 100 mpg and believes that their new serieshybrid system for powering the car will someday help break America’s dependence on foreign oil.

The car has been entered in the Automotive X Prize, a competition for 100 mpg vehicles and the team plans to showcase the car later this year in a qualifying race. Expectations for the vehicle are high, because Young’s team members, Johnathan Goodwin and Uli Kruger are famous in their own right – at least in alternative energy circles. Young first saw 38-year-old Goodwin on MTV’s Pimp My Ride. Known as the Motorhead Messiah, he has developed a reputation for modifying larger vehicles like Hummers and Jeep Wagoneers to be fuel-efficient. The other Linc Volt team member is German physicist Uli Kruger, who has spent decades researching techniques for blending fuels that don’t normally mix. One of Kruger’s systems puts hydrogen into the air intake of a diesel engine producing emissions-reducing and mileageboosting effects. Victor Seaber, who runs the VIPER lab, notes, “It was exciting to test and tune such an innovative and out-ofthe-box green project car. Projects like this allow us to demonstrate our abilities, not only in the racing field but in alternative energy and research. Our location in the center of a major racetrack and affiliation with major research universities makes us an ideal choice for this type of testing, because we can utilize our facilities and perform real-world private testing on the track itself.” For more information about VIPER, visit www.virclub.com.

Spice It Up with Home-Grown Herbs by Vickie Fuquay, Herb Garden Specialist

Growing your own herbs is easy and adds fragrance and flavor to your meals. Herbs can be grown in containers on your patio or deck, in raised beds, or in a corner of your garden. Most require full sun and welldrained soil. Here are a few of the most popular homegrown varieties:  Basil comes in many varieties but the most well-known is Sweet Italian, which is great paired with fresh tomatoes and in Italian dishes. Greek Columnar has a similar taste and is more compact. Other types are lemon, spicy globe, cinnamon or African blue. Clip often or the leaves will become bitter.  Parsley is often used as a garnish; however, it also adds good flavor and nutrition. The curly variety is the most common, but the better flavor is from the flat leaf Italian.  Rosemary thrives in hot dry places and is a hardy perennial. It can be a creeping ground cover or reach 4-5 feet tall. It is wonderful on all types of meats and flavorful rice or potato dishes.  Oregano and marjoram are first cousins and can be used in soups, stews, and Italian dishes.  Thyme offers many options. My favorite is lime thyme on fish or chicken. The upright varieties of English or French grow like little bushes and the lemon or lime caraway thymes are ground-cover types.  Chives are easy to grow and produce over a long season. Clip them often and add to dressings, dips, and soups.  Sage grows like a little bush and comes in many sizes and colors.  Mint has a very large family of flavors: chocolate, orange, apple, peppermint and spearmint. They can be used in cookies or to garnish iced tea. Plant only in containers because it will quickly take over your garden. If more than one variety is grown in a container, they will lose their distinct flavor.  Lavender is grown more for fragrance and the beauty of its soft gray leaves and purple or white flowers than for eating. It can be tricky to grow in our area because it needs good drainage and a slightly alkaline soil. For more information, call Vickie at Raywood Landscape Center 434.822.1400.

Spring is all around us. Forsythia, redbud, and dogwood are blooming against the backdrop of new leaves appearing in every imaginable shade of green. Clumps of daffodils have appeared even in deserted places where houses must have stood. This natural beauty is complimented by camellias so full of blooms that the bushes look like solid blossoms. Just when we think it couldn’t be more beautiful, the azaleas break out their new spring duds. With all the flowering activity, vegetable gardens can’t be far behind. Plots are being cleared. Freshly turned soil is waiting for

the sun to warm it just enough to germinate the seeds and send us into a growing frenzy. Now is the perfect time to plant a lettuce garden. Some good soil, a little fertilizer, a few packs of seed, and about three weeks are all that stand between you and a fresh salad made from your own tender young lettuce. If you don’t have a garden spot, plant the lettuce as a flower bed border, or even in a large patio pot. When the days turn hot and the lettuce is no longer growing well, pull it up and replant more seeds next fall. Fresh lettuce looks beautiful as it grows, and is a wonderful way to welcome spring to your table.

Fruit Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette

Going Green

for Spring by Annelle Williams

4 cups fresh baby lettuce 1 cup sliced strawberries 1 cup peeled and diced orange slices 1 cup halved seedless grapes, green or purple 1/2 cup strawberry vinaigrette* 1/4 cup sliced almonds 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola Toss strawberries, orange pieces and grapes with the dressing. Place baby greens on a platter. Top with fruit. Garnish with almonds and gorgonzola.

Strawberry Vinaigrette

1/2 cup sliced strawberries 1 T balsamic vinegar 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper 1 T sugar 2 T canola oil Put strawberries, vinegar, pepper, and sugar in a food processor and pulse until mixed. Add oil and process until smooth.

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Come To Your “One Stop”

Home Decorating Center

• Paint and Paint Supplies • Wallpaper • Carpeting • Vinyl and Hardwood Flooring • Window Treatments And Much More!

“We help make a house YOUR home” www.danvillepaintandsupply.com

434.792.8521 532 Monroe St. Danville, VA

It's Butterflies Galore at the Danville Science Center! Saturday, April 18, 2009

Butterfly Hello! 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Celebrate a new season of butterflies and spring flowers in our Butterfly Station and Garden with hands-on activities the whole family will love. Butterfly releases at noon and 2 p.m. Sponsored by

Butterfly Thyme

9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Our second annual herb sale offers plants and treats to eat or to start your own backyard butterfly habitat. Sponsored by

Butterfly Hello! and Butterfly Thyme are free of charge.

677 CRAGHEAD ST. DANVILLE, VA (434) 791-5160 • dsc.smv.org

Now until May 25, 2009 Enter this interactive maze to learn the surprising challenges butterflies face every day of their lives. Included with Science Center admission.

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April 2009

Watch the Butterfly Release on April 18 by Nancy Tait

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.

A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath by Amy Holmes

I stood in Danville’s DMV on Cleveland Street, taking in rows of monochromatic chairs, fluorescent lighting, too few smiles, and too much bureaucracy. I can’t stand this place, I thought. It didn’t help that I had hardly slept the night before, or the night before that, or that I was nine months pregnant, or that I had already made two trips to the DMV to obtain a Virginia license. “I don’t know what TOD means,” I said to the clerk. We both looked at my Missouri title where my maiden name appeared, followed by TOD Johnny Jones, my mother’s name. My due date was exactly one week away and I was determined to get all this paperwork completed before I went into labor and Virginia license plates would become the last thing on my mind. The clerk found the DMV title/registration “bible,” and flipped to the Missouri section. “TOD. Transfer on Death. That means your mother is a coowner and she will have to sign the back of your title before you can have a new title and plates,” she explained. “My mother is NOT a co-owner on my vehicle. I bought this vehicle myself,” I responded – maybe a little too loudly. To prove my point, I called the agency in Missouri that had transferred my title. “I’m at the Virginia DMV. Could you please explain to them that my mother is not a co-owner on my vehicle?” I asked handing my cell phone to the Virginia clerk. “I’m not allowed to talk on cell phones here,” the clerk told me. I protested to no avail. Wisely, she called her manager. When Elaine McGuire appeared, I attempted to explain the situation calmly. I expected her to treat me with condescension and impatience. Instead, she immediately responded with grace. “Oh, when’s your baby due?” she asked. “August 9th,” I answered. She knew the key to every pregnant woman’s heart: ask about the baby. Then she explained that in Virginia, transfer on death signifies co-ownership, regardless of its meaning in Missouri. The clerk had already tried to tell me this, but I’d refused to listen. Now, I began to calm down. Then she turned my title over and marked the various places where my mother, my husband, and I needed to sign. All of a sudden, I wasn’t angry anymore. She was genuinely sympathetic. It was like the “spoonful of sugar” that Mary Poppins talked about-- this “sugar” was making the medicine go down. I’ll be honest. When I first arrived in Danville, I wasn’t that impressed. I had wanted to find a place unlike the small town where I had lived in Missouri, but Danville seemed like more of the same. But due to the kindness of Elaine and others like her, my opinion changed dramatically. All of a sudden, I no longer cared that I had to secure more signatures and return to the DMV and that my baby might arrive before this dilemma was solved. I had been shown grace and kindness, while demonstrating neither. By this time, my conscience was telling me, “Say you’re sorry.” So I looked down and said the words quietly. Usually in bureaucratic run-ins, I felt I was right. This time, I wasn’t. Sure, the whole thing was inconvenient, but I was the one who was being belligerent – not them. Thank you, Danville, for showing grace when I didn’t deserve it and for giving me an object lesson in Proverbs 15:1: A gentle answer turns away wrath. I credit the city, not just the individual, because these are the attitudes and behaviors I’ve experienced ever since I arrived in this community. And I hope that the next time I encounter a similar situation, this soft-heartedness will have been contagious-- that I will also show grace to the next hot-headed pregnant lady who doesn’t deserve it or to whomever else – regardless of who they may be.

Spring is in the air setting the stage for butterflies. Bring your camera and snap some shots as this year’s first butterflies are released into their new home in the Butterfly Garden at the Danville Science Center. Two popular events are joining forces on Saturday, April 18: Butterfly Thyme, an herb sale and Butterfly Hello, the opening of the DSC Butterfly Station and Garden. Butterfly Thyme is 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Butterfly Hello is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “This year we’re having two butterfly releases at Butterfly Hello,” says Science Center Director Jeff Liverman, “Our sponsor, Centra Health, is making it possible for us to do one butterfly release at noon and a second at 2 p.m.” Be ready to watch butterflies stretch their wings and sip nectar as you walk through a garden designed to meet the needs of the small creatures. Arrive early to talk with experts and purchase butterfly-attracting herbs to plant in your own yard. Hands-on activities are always popular at Butterfly Hello. Youngsters and adults can build a paper caterpillar, create a model of a butterfly egg, or play a match game to learn which caterpillar turns into which butterfly. Visitors can examine different colors and patterns of butterflies and make a chromatography butterfly to take home. Before leaving, be sure to see the visiting exhibition Amazing Butterflies and pick up a bottle of water and a reusable bag from the Centra Health booth. Then check out the new butterfly exhibit by photographer Tony Adcock.

Madelaine by Alice Abbott Photography

Butterfly Hello and Butterfly Thyme are free. Donations to the Butterfly Station and Garden are appreciated. Amazing Butterflies is included with Science Center admission. Tickets are $5 for children 4-12, seniors 60+ and active military, and $6 for adults. The Butterfly Station and Garden is open Saturday, April 18, until Monday, Oct. 12. Danville Science Center and Butterfly Station and Garden hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Summer hours are Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. For more information call 434.791.5160 or visit www.dsc.smv.orghttp. The Danville Science Center is a division of the Science Museum of Virginia and is located at 677 Craghead Street.

Points North / Views from the Hill by Alice Saunders

The North Theatre has been busier than ever this past winter and it looks as though that trend will continue into the spring and summer. April opens with Cinemagic, a performance by the Danville Choral Arts Society presenting music from the movies on Saturday, April 4, at 7:30 p.m. Sunday Afternoon at the Movies begins on April 19 at 2:00 p.m. with Gone With The Wind. This movie is simply breathtaking on the big screen and is the first in the North Theatre’s Vintage Movie Guild presentations. Don’t miss The Celtic Players an enormously talented group that has appeared on public television and are coming to us at the end of their California tour on Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. Some members of the group provided music for the movies Titanic and Far And Away. The North Theatre is proud to host the premier talent show in the Piedmont, Show Off. The talent-search portion of Show Off will be held on Tuesday and Thursday April 21 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. After the talent has been selected, the Show Off competition will begin on Thursday April 30th and continue into May. For more information about auditioning and competing, call 434.489.8926. (See ad page 13.) It’s good to see the North Theatre so busy. When prospective employers look for places to bring businesses, they look at many things including the community’s cultural life. We hope that the North will be open in Danville for a very long time providing cultural and entertaining opportunities. The North is also available for rentals by groups and organizations. The North Theatre is located at 629 North Main Street. For more information, call 434.792.2700 or visit www.norththeatre.com.

Evince Magazine

A Note From Kim: The Octomom media frenzy has convinced me to honor a request to rerun a column from March 2000. While I don’t know nothing about birthing no babies, to borrow a famous line, I do have firsthand experience with twins. This requested flashback piece is being republished in celebration of my Orlando nephews returning home last month to spend their 27th birthday with their grandmother.

Beware of the Ides of March Julius Caesar ignored the soothsayer’s warning and look what happened to him. As the Ides of March approaches, I need to alert you to something even more frightening than overthrowing an emperor. On March 15, my nephews will turn 18 even though I can’t believe how fast that’s happened. Today they sport 5 o’clock shadows. Yesterday they

were red, wiggly iguanas with faces only a mother could love. Everything’s so different now, starting with the childbirth itself. Back then, all mothersto-be, not just hippies, thought rhythmically-timed breathing was the best prescription for pain relief. Not anymore. These days natural childbirth means you didn’t get to the hospital in time. When Andrew and Phillip were born, fathers were expected to pace in the lobby, not stand at the foot of the bed and film a documentary. Babies made their debuts in delivery rooms, not birthing rooms...which now come complete with cable TV, a wet bar and a Lazy Boy recliner. I’d never been around babies, so I didn’t know what to do with one child, much less two. But I quickly learned. At my sister’s house, someone was always hungry, someone was always crying and someone always had soiled underwear. Most of the time, it was one of the twins. This column has its genesis in a promise I made to my

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family couldn’t prevent or fix. And thankfully, I’ve watched you persevere. But mostly, I’ve watched you triumph and grow into fine young men. My house is full of snapshots of you, capturing your changes over the years. And in short order, I found myself changing, too. Never would I have imagined applauding any announcement heralded from a potty-chair...or composing and performing rap songs of weekly spelling words. But I did. And never would I have imagined that my sister’s children would actually change my life. But you did. Watching you grow up has been bittersweet. Part of me misses the teddy-bear people I could cuddle, but the other part of me enjoys the companionship that your maturity brings. As I write this, I’ve noticed that my eyes keep watering. I’m fairly certain, though, it must be my allergies. On this Ides of March, these two little iguanas will have evolved into young adults. Except this time their faces are red from the embarrassment that this feature causes. Seems then, the March 15 warning is really for me. While it marks my nephews’ first official day of adulthood…for some strange reason…I’m the one who feels older.

effective March 1, 2009

Dr. Juan E. Cuebas and Dr. Rafael V. Hurtado welcome new patients (children and adults) with all kind of neurological and sleep conditions. • Tingling • Sleep Problems • Blackout Spells • Stroke • Parkinson’s • Fatigue

nephews many years ago. I assured them I was keeping a list of their infractions for which I would hold them accountable on this birthday. I’m sure they would have preferred a beating instead of this piece. Drew, Phil…there is so much I’ll never forget that you don’t remember... like when you teamed up against me at bath time. It didn’t take me long to realize that squirt guns aren’t bathtub toys. Most visits with you began with, “Watch this, Kim.” Andrew, Phillip…believe me when I say… watch you…I did. There is little in your lives I’ve missed. I’ve watched you swing a golf club, run down a soccer field, jump in a pool, and ride a bike. I watched you, ever insistent to dress yourselves, put your shoes on the wrong feet. I’ve watched you race downstairs to see what Santa left and I’ve watched you take your seat on the first day of school. I’ve proudly watched you being baptized and sadly watched you face heartbreaks that our

Page 11

President

Jill Bowman

Mary-Whitt Jones

Trey Belcher

Customer Service Representatives

Dr. Rafael V. Hurtado Board Certiﬁed in Neurology

178 Executive Drive, Danville • www.neurologist.medem.com

Scott Jones

Stephanie Tyburski

Producer

Life & Health Producer

Riverside Insurance Agency, Inc. 2323 Riverside Drive, Danville, VA (434) 793-6811 Fax (434) 797-3331

Page 12

April 2009

April Calendar

Through April 18

Piedmont Arts Exhibits – A Brazilian Artist in Medieval Europe, Photographs by David Spear & Theatre of the Sky. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.

Through April 23

Darwin Exhibits – Evidence & Evolution/Darwin’s Enchanted Islands. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185.

Through April 26

Danville Museum Exhibits: See pg 14.

Through May 25

Amazing Butterflies Exhibits – Shrink to the size of a butterfly and explore the relationships between caterpillars, butterflies and their natural surroundings. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.

April 3

Racin’ & Tastin’ – BBQ, beach music & fun. 6 pm. Community Market. 434.793.4636. Awadagin Pratt & Zuill Bailey Concert. See story page 3. Benefit for Dr. Tracey Keller – With music by Backstreet. 5-10 pm. Mt. Hermon Courtyard. 434.836.2499.

April 3 (thru 5)

April 4

One Block At A Time – Kids use various sizes of Legos to build. 9:3010:45 am. Glenwood Community Center. 434.797.8848.

Done to Death – Inventive mystery comedy. 7:30 pm, 4/5-2:30 pm. Gretna Movie Theatre. Gretna Little Theatre 434.228.1778.

Alzheimer’s Presentation – Ask the Elder Law Attorney. 12–1 pm. West Main Street. 434.792.3700. Growing & Cooking Locally. 6-9 pm. SVAC, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.

Bob Ross Intensive Workshop. 4/4-9 am, 4/5-1 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

Senior Bowling Tournament.10 am– 12 pm. Riverside Lanes – 434.791.2695.

April 1 & 15

Fetch! Lab. 4/1- aluminum foil boat; 4/15 - forces that affect flight. Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

April 1 (thru 23)

Toddler Storytime. 4/1-Birds; 4/8Gardens; 4/15- Mud; 4/22- Trains & Planes; 4/23- Rain. Ages 18 month – 3 years. Weds 10:15 am. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326.

April 1 (thru 29)

Toastmasters - Conquer you fear of public speaking. Weds, 1 pm. NCBT 434.793.6822. Guitar for Youth & Teens Class – Ages 5-17. Wed 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

April 1 (thru May 6)

Crafty Creations – Wide variety of arts and crafts that includes painting, molding, drawing, and constructing a masterpiece. Ages 5-12. 6-7 pm. Glenwood Community Center. 434.797.6469.

April 1 (thru May 7)

Create Oil Masterpieces w/ Flo. 9:30 am-12:30 pm or 6-9 pm; Wed or Thurs. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

April 2

April 2 & 9

April 2 (thru 27)

Boogie Monday – Beginner Cha Cha. Mondays 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

April 2 (thru 30)

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. How to Improve Your Financial Health. 4/2-Take Stock in the Stock Market. 4/7-Tax Free Investing (6-7 pm). 4/23-Preparing Your Estate Plan 4/30-Outlook & Opportunities. 12- 1 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848 Lifeguard Class. Tues/Thurs 4:30-7 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621. Guitar for Adults Class – Thurs 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

April 6 (thru 29)

Swim Lessons. Mon/Wed 6:30 & 7:20 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621.

National Tartan Day Celebration – Lawson-Overby Inn. 434.793.7432. Hunter Safety Alternative Course. – Consists of an online portion, a written test, and a series of practical exercises. 8 am-12 pm. Ballou Center. 433.799.5215. Education 5K Run/Walk. 9 am. Goodyear Golf Course. 434.797.1909. Mutt Strut & Charity Bike Ride: – Enjoy a picnic with your pet, refreshments & entertainment. 9 am-1 pm. Martinsville Speedway. MHC SPCA – 276.638.PAWS. DRBA’s First Saturday – See page 6. Kite Flying Extravaganza – Explore the history of kites, learn safety & design and build a colorful and durable paper kite. Ages 6-11. 10 am-12 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160. Natural Egg Hunt – Search for reptile and amphibian eggs. 10 am-12 pm. Anglers Park. 434.799.5215. 101 Dalmatians Kids. Storybook Theatre. 10 am & 1 pm. Rockingham Community College. www.tgrc-nc.com. Antique Appraisal Fair. 11 am-3 pm. South Boston-Halifax Co. Museum – 434.572.9200. Oleta Adams – Spiritually uplifting vocalist who blends jazz, gospel and pop influences. 3 & 7:30 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339. Spaghetti Dinner. 5-7 pm. Sacred Heart School – 434.793.2656. Main Street Cruise-In – Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the downtown while cruising classic cars. 6-9 pm. Downtown Danville. 434.791.6813. Live Music w/Landon Spradlin. 7-10 pm. Bronx Boy Bagels – 434.797.3777. Cinemagic – See page 10. Fabulous 50s Dance – . 7:30-10:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.

April 1

Averett Softball vs. Meredith College. 2:30 pm. AU – 434.791.5621. Mariachi Band. 6:30-9:30 pm. Los Tres Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 434.792.0601. Photography Club – 7 pm. Henry County– 276.634.4640.

April 4 & 5

April 4 & 11

Raku Pottery. 9 am-12 pm. SVAC, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.

April 7

April 7 (thru 9)

Hunter Safety Education – Required for first-time licensees. 6:30-10 pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215. YWCA Book Review – Dr. Ann Garbett, Averett University Professor of English will read from her own poetry. 12:15 pm. Danville Public Library – 434.799.5195.

April 7 & 14

Ceramic Mold Making Techniques. 6-9 pm. SVAC, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.

April 7 & 21

Tuesday Teasers: – Disc golf competitions for prizes. 5:30-7 pm. Ballou Park. 434.799.5215.

April 7 (thru 28)

African Dance Ensemble – Learn the beautiful art of African Dance. Tues 6-7:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. Bluegrass Jamboree. Tues. 7–9 pm. Reidsville Exhibit Center. www.downtownreidsvillenc.com.

April 7 (thru 29)

Koates Kids Pre-School Program. Ages 3-5. Tues/Weds 9:30 am–12 pm. Coates Center. 434.797.8848.

April 7 (thru 30)

Parent/Tot & Preschool Swim Lessons. times/days vary. YMCA– 434.792.0621.

April 8

Senior Citizens Community Day. 9 am-12 pm. Chatham Center – 434.432.3115.

April 8 (thru 22)

Lighten Up for Live V. 2nd, 3rd & 4th Wednesdays, 9-11 am. Ballou Center. 434.799.5216.

April 8 & 22

Recipe Club – Share recipes & enjoy food. 11:30 am. City Armory . 434.797.8848.

April 9

April 4 (thru 25)

The Sound of Music – Children will play instruments, sing, dance. 9:30-10:45 am. Glenwood Center – 434.797.8848. Tween Night – Make a Patchwork Egg. Age 10-12. 6 pm. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326.

April 6

Scrapbooking – Trade materials, socialize and work on your own book. 6–8 pm. Glenwood Center – 434.799.6469. Footloose. CCCC See ad page 3.

April 4 (thru 18)

Cartooning Class – Create fantastic scenarios for heroes and villains. Sat. 11 am-12 pm. Coates Center – 434.799.6564. West African Dance & Drumming Class. Sat 10:30 am-12 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848. Auto Racing – Saturdays 2 pm. South Boston Speedway – 434.572.2695. Historic Walk in Uptown Martinsville – Guided walk and talk tour. 9 am. 276.634.4640.

April 10

April 10 & 11

Averett Baseball vs. Greensboro College. 1 pm. AU– 434.791.5621.

April April 2009 2009 S S M M 5 5 12 12 19 19 26 26

6 6 13 13 20 20 27 27

TT 7 7 14 14 21 21 28 28

W W TT 1 1 2 2 8 8 9 9 15 15 16 16 22 22 23 23 29 29 30 30

F F S S 3 3 4 4 10 10 11 11 17 17 18 18 24 24 25 25

April 10 (thru May 15)

Southside Superstar – Singing competition. Each week the contestant with the lowest votes is eliminated. 7 pm. City Auditorium. www.southsidesuperstar.com.

April 11

Bunny Lunch & Eggstravaganza Hunt – Enjoy snacks, prizes, crafts and meet the Spring Bunny. Ages 3-10. 11 am1 pm. Ballou Park. 434.797.8848. Easter Egg Hunt - Select eggs win prizes. Ages infant-12 years. 11 am. Freedom Park, Eden. 336.623.2110. Charity Softball Game – Danville Police Dept Vs Pittsylvania Co Sheriff Office. 12-5 pm. Dan Daniel Park www.dpchamber.org.

April 11 & 25

Fun with Folktales – Family storytime activities. 4/11-Rabbits & Eggs; 4/25-Three Wishes. 11 am. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326. April 12 Easter Sunday

April 13 (thru 16)

WII Day. Located at various county libraries. Mt. Hermon Library 434.835.0326.

April 14

Polliwogs - Use recycled materials to create Earth-friendly crafts. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160. Photography Club. 6:30-7:45 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. YWCA Book Review – The Associate by John Grisham will be reviewed by Dr. Betty Steele. 12:15 pm. Danville Public Library – 434.799.5195.

April 14 (thru May 5)

Precious Metal Clay & Fused Glass Jewelry Class. Tues. 6-8:30pm pm. SVAC, Martinsville – 276.632.0066.

April 15

YWCA Reopening 750 Main Street, Danville. 434.793.2987 Alzheimer’s Presentation – Who Can I Call for Help? 12–1 pm. West Main Street. – 434.792.3700 x30.

April 16

Sky Watchers – View the Leo the Lion & its brightest star, Regulus, the double star system Algieba and the red giant star Arcturus. Nightfall. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

April 16 (thru 19)

Oliver – 7:30 pm. 4/19-3 pm. Kirby Theatre, Roxboro – 336.597.1709.

April 17

Just Everyday Women, Walking by Faith. 11 am-1 pm. Mary’s Diner. 434.836.2660

April 17 (thru 19)

SCCA Double National Races. VIRginia International Raceway – 434.822.7700.

April 17 (thru 20)

Book Sale. Averett University Library – 434.791.5690.

April 18

Danville Wine Festival. See ad pg 6. - and story pg 3. McAfeeís Knob Hike – 8 am-6 pm: 434.799.5215. Instant Piano For Hopelessly Busy People - $65. Learn enough half a day to give you years of musical

Evince Magazine enjoyment. 9 am-12 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Ceramic Glaze Techniques. 9 am-5 pm. SVAC Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Butterfly Thyme Herb Fair – See story page 10. Butterfly Station & Garden Butterfly Hello – See story page 10. Play Day Skate Festival – 3-6 pm. Philip Wyatt Memorial Skate Park. 434.799.5215. Dane Ferguson Concert – Singer/ songwriter and acoustic guitarist plays folk, jazz, soul and rock. 7:30 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339.

April 18 & 25

3-D Mosaic Frogs – Transform a plain white polystyrene sculpture into a colorful work of art. 9:30-11 am. Coates Center – 434.799.6564.

April 19

Chatham Garden Week Tour See page 4. Gone with the Wind at the North Theatre See page 10.

April 20

Becoming a Professional Potter. 6:30–8:30 pm. SVAC, Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Authors on Campus Series. Averett U. See story and ad page 6.

April 21

Spaghetti Dinner & Comedy Show– Comedian Kristi Vann will present Living Life Through Laughter. 6 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216. The Buzz on Beekeeping Tom Barret shares his experiences and shows some tools of the trade. 7 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160. YWCA Book Review – Hot, Flat and Crowded: Why we Need a Green Revolution and How it Can Renew America by Tom Friedman will be reviewed by Laura Meder. 12:15 pm. Danville Public Library – 434.799.5195.

April 21 (thru May 26)

Romping, Stomping Good Time – Introduce little ones to basic concepts such as in and out, up and down, directions and shapes. Tues. 9:30-10:45 am. Glenwood Center – 434.797.8848.

April 22

Volunteer Recognition Breakfast –A thank you to all volunteers. 8-9:30 am. Stratford Courtyard Conference Center. 434.792.3700, x31. Earth Day Celebration – Learn about recycling activities, energy conservation programs, and more.10 am-4 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185.

April 22 (thru May 27)

Adventure Kids – Kids can go outdoors and enjoy the beauties of nature. 3:30-5:30 pm. Locations vary. 434.799.5215.

April 23

Danville Garden Week Tour Page 4. How to Run for Public Office Workshop. 5:15-7 pm. RCATT – 434.836.6990. Gardening Series - Growing and Maintaining a Picturesque Flower Bed. 6-7:30 pm. Ballou Center. 434.799.5215. Personal Effectiveness of LeadersThinking & Doing. 6:30-8:30 pm. IALR – www.ialr.org.

April 23 (thru May 28)

Programs for Tots – Tumblin’ for Tiny Tots, 9:30-10:15 am. Ooey, Gooey, Muddy, Messy Adventures, 9:30-10:15 am. Thursdays. Glenwood Center – 434.797.8848.

April 24

Smithsonian Jazz Orchestra See ad page 7; story page 3.

April 24 (thru 26)

Bosch Engineering 250 GrandAm Rolex Sports Car Series. VIR 434.822.7700.

April 24 (thru May 3)

Forever Plaid – Musical. Halifax County Little Theatre. 3 or 8 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339.

April 25

Lake Country Wine Festival. See story page 3; ad page 16. Bass Classic Tournament. 7 am. Mayo Park, Roxboro. 336.597.7806. Special Saturday - Pollution solutions with games, crafts, and fun-filled activities.10 am-12 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185. Girl Scout Safety Program:– 10 am3 pm. Ballou Center. 434.799.5215. Leisure Class in Paleontology – Fossils of Carmel Church. 10 am-3:45 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185. Clash of the Carts – Racing crazy, outrageous, down-right-foolish contraptions. Uptown Roxboro. 336.599.0918. www.visitroxboronc.com. SoundCheck – Open mic night. 7-10 pm. Chatham Community Center – 434.432.3115 x1. The Celtic Players. See story page 10.

April 25 & 26

Spring Fling Festival – Craft vendors, great food, car show, parade and entertainment -John Anderson. www. providencespringflingfestival.com. Military Extravaganza – AAF Tank Museum – 434.836.5323.

April 26

Concert in the Park – Entertainment & concessions. 3-5 pm. Kiwanis Amphitheatre, Eden. 336.623.2110.

April 27 (thru May 19)

Painting w/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.

April 27 (thru July 13)

Fitness Program. 6:15 pm. YMCA – 434.792.0621.

April 28

Polliwogs - Learn how plants & gardens can help keep the Earth healthy. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160. Gardening Series – How To Vegetable Garden. 6-7:30 pm. Ballou Nature Center. 434.799.5215. YWCA Book Review – The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family by Annette Gordon-Reed will be reviewed by Russell Scruggs. 12:15 pm. Danville Public Library – 434.799.5195.

April 29

Doodle Bugs! - Scent-sational senses with fun activities, games, and crafts. Ages 3-5. 10 am & 3 pm. VMNH – 276.634.4185. Alzheimer’s Presentation – Caregiver Training and Stress Relief. 12–1 pm. West Main Street. 434.792.3700

April 30

Young Professionals Networking Event. 5:30-7pm. Scott & Stringfellow. 434.836.6990. Kick Off Canoe Trip: See the Dan River come alive with active birds, blossoming flowers and bright skies. 5:30-7:30 pm. Abreu-Grogan Park. 434.799.5215. The Six Enchanted Evenings in the Park – GWHS Jazz Band. 5:30-8 pm. Ballou Park. www.visitdanville.com.

Upcoming Events May 1 thru 3

Halifax County Heritage & Antique Machinery Festival See page14.

May 1

Fridays At the Crossing – The Konnection Band. See ad page 9.

May 2

Second Annual Running of the Danville Downs See story page 14. Main Street Cruise-In. 6-9 pm. Downtown Danville. 434.791.6813.

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April 2009

Reflecting Forward Maintenance-Free Living: Not! by Linda Lemery

I took a look at my garden recently. It looked good, probably because everything was still dormant and I hadn’t over-planted yet. Ye-es... I over-plant. I love color and have a cluttered mind. That clutter spills out into grand design, resulting in densely populated spaces that we just can’t thin out. There truly is soil in the garden. You just can’t see it because of all the plants. It wasn’t like this when we first moved here. It took effort to get it this way. Consider, for example, the raised garden. We live on a slope. Everything runs downhill including the soil. We partially corrected that 23 years ago by building a wall to raise the upper garden to level, using posts set in concrete, landscaping timber, and rebar to hold the treated wood in place. The raised garden is level, with one tiny problem: wood eventually rots. A word to the wise: if you ever build a raised garden, use concrete block. But flash back to 23 years ago. We had a newly level garden with nothing but a few rose bushes in it. We added dirt -- a truckload of it, dumped in the front of the house. We had to haul that dirt, wheelbarrow by overloaded wheelbarrow in the blistering summer heat, all the way back to the raised garden. Ten yards from the goal, we had to pause...gather our energies ... focus ... then lurch into a run to reach escape velocity and launch the wheelbarrow up the ramp and into the garden to be able to dump the dirt. When I began to introduce plants, I used native ones that spread and seed themselves. I planted strawberries near roses, fennel near rosemary, tomatoes here and there. Now that we knew how to operate the wheelbarrows and because we wanted to conserve water, I had a truckload of homegrown mulch dumped out front. Not only did everything we planted grow, everything grew together, and even new things grew: things that came from the seeds in the homegrown mulch, things people call weeds. No proactive deed ever goes unpunished. I’ve been fighting those weeds ever since. One of the best things we’ve done is build the patio. The year we put it in, we followed the directions explicitly, leaving a nail’s-width worth of space between each block. The patio was large enough for a picnic table. Grass promptly grew between the blocks. I actually weeded the patio every week for over a decade. We finally wised up. Last year my husband and son extended it and reset the original blocks, jamming them so close together that even a razorblade couldn’t squeeze between them. I no longer have to weed the patio. We now have a nice area for entertaining, if we ever stop working long enough to entertain. Now that I think about it, I especially love that the patio is a move in the direction of maintenance-free living. Toward that end, maybe we should just consider paving over the whole back yard. When she’s not conceiving new ways to jam more plants into the garden, Linda Lemery llemery@gamewood.net works at Mary B. Blount Library at Averett University in Danville, VA.

Halifax County Heritage & Antique Machinery Festival Promises Family Fun by Cathy Cole

There are many explanations for why I’m glad spring has arrived, but my favorite reason is that it signals the kick-off of the Halifax County Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival held the first weekend in May. The festival is a pet project of the Gear-Heads of Halifax County-- a group of farmers who stave off cabin fever by collecting antique farm machinery and equipment and tinkering with it all winter in preparation for the festival each year. They also travel the East Coast attending other festivals where they find more items to add to their collections and return with great ideas for new features and attractions for the local festival. While history buffs and old-timers enjoy looking at the working antique farm exhibits displayed on the midway, others come for the tractor pulls and quarter-scale pulls. Quarter-scales are meticulously restored lawn mowers. Burn Outs also attract large crowds of thrill seekers who like to feel the rumble, hear the roar, smell the smoke, and of course see who has the hottest car. It is all about braggin’ rites. The Exhibit Hall is usually filled with excellent exhibits including antique tools, tobacco-curing displays, and fascinating arts and crafts of the past. Additionally, vendors sell antiques, glassware, jewelry, and other unique flea market items. But that’s not all. Many people come to enjoy some of the best local gospel and bluegrass music this side of Nashville. One of the favorite attractions for children is the Corn Box. It is like a sand box, but filled with corn kernels. Other popular activities for children include pedal tractor races and a little train that is made of old barrels. New to the festival this year, children will be able to milk a cow. It’s not a real cow, but a plywood cut-out of a cow complete with utters and milk. Fun equine activities will be featured at the new horse ring at the fairgrounds: a driving demonstration Friday afternoon at 3 p.m., a Fun Horse Show Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. and Cowboy Church Sunday at noon. Don’t worry about what to eat. A variety of good food is available all weekend. Going from one attraction to another is not a problem. People movers pulled by tractors with seating for 20 will operate continuously offering rides to folks. All profits will go to building a heritage village where the vehicles, machines, and other farm equipment that helped shape the county’s rich agricultural heritage can be housed permanently. Festival times are Friday, May 1, from noon until 9 p.m., Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, May 3, 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the Halifax County Fairgrounds located on Highway 360 East behind the South Boston Speedway. For more information, visit www.halifaxcountyheritagefestival.org.

Three New Free Exhibits at the DMFAH by Lynne Bjarnesen, Executive Director

Three galleries in the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History will be filled with new exhibits for the public to view during the month of April. Impending Presence in the Jennings Gallery brings the work of nationally known Texas-based artist Ron Clark to Danville. His cycle of paintings explores the mystery of form and consciousness emerging from the chaos of formlessness. In these abstract works, fields of rich color shift and coalesce playing out before the viewer’s eyes the drama of creation itself. The series takes the viewer through three phases, from primal chaos, to creative formation, to a floating, ethereal realm. Vivid fields of color emanate from the highly textured surfaces of the paintings, through a complex process of layering of modeling paste, metallic paint, and oil color. In the subtle, shifting luminescence of this work, the viewer is immersed in the drama of form coalescing from fluid atmospheres of light. The Averett University Student Exhibition in the Schoolfield Gallery is always a popular exhibit by AU art majors and minors that includes paintings, printmaking such as etchings and collographs, sculpture, pottery and jewelry. Much of the work will be for sale. Playing with Clay: Sculptor Mike (Gretha) Blake is in the Boatwright Gallery. Blake is a resident of Stratford House retirement community where she has been able to fulfill her life-long desire to sculpt. With the encouragement of AU art professor Diane Kendrick, 81-year-old Blake has an impressive collection of unique clay busts that depict people in various poses and moods. The DMFAH at 975 Main Street is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The three art galleries and the permanent exhibition Between the Lines: Danville 1861-1865 are free to the public. For more information call 434.793.5644 or visit www.danvillemuseum.org.

Come to Derby Day in Danville by Linda Lawrence Dalton

Be a part of the excitement and share the fun of the world famous Kentucky Derby with friends and neighbors without leaving Southern Virginia. The Second Annual Running of the Danville Downs starts at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, at the beautiful Danville Golf Club. Richmond theme party specialist Group Dynamics will put on a show complete with a 25-foot long track, betting windows, odds boards, race track decor, play money, race tickets, a professional announcer who calls the race in true track form, and jockeys dressed in racing attire. There will be a variety of music before, between, and after the races with a state-of-the-art sound system for those who want to dance or those who just want to enjoy the high energy of the event. When you hear the screaming and cheering from everyone around you, you will think you really are at Churchill Downs. Between the racing, dancing, and socializing, participants will enjoy sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and a variety of tasty beverages including the famous Mint Juleps. After cheering locally sponsored horses in races throughout the party, participants can watch the real Kentucky Derby broadcast live on a big screen. Before leaving, there will be numerous chances for winning great prizes including one for the hat contest. So, dress in your Sunday best and include one of those fashionable hats that are such a well-known part of the Derby experience at Churchill Downs. This will be the premiere event of the springtime social season—a chance to celebrate the season in style. Don’t miss out on the Run for the Roses right here in Danville. This Danville Area Association for the Arts & Humanities fundraiser will help keep their high quality performing arts series alive and well in this community. For sponsorship opportunities and ticket information call the A&H office at 434.792.6965.

Evince Magazine

Book Review Very Valentine: A Novel by April Hawkins

Alongside the entries in my datebook that is laden with my 8-year-old daughter’s dance and piano schedule was a very important date circled in red, highlighted in green and flagged with a post-it note. The notation wasn’t a dance show, piano recital or my parent’s 35th anniversary, but the day of the release of Very Valentine: A Novel, the latest book in a new trilogy from native Virginian, Adriana Trigiani. As a bibliophile, I read voraciously. I rarely discriminate against a book. When I find a book or author who captivates me, I become passionate in spreading the word to friends. When I discovered Trigiani many years ago, I immediately devoured everything I could grasp. Trigiani has a way of pulling you into her books and placing you between the covers. Very Valentine tells the story of Valentine who serves as an apprentice to her grandmother, Gram, in her custom shoemaking business started by her great-grandfather. Faced with the possibility of the demise of their beloved company, Valentine sets out to save the business but discovers a lot more to life than being a shoe cobbler. An exciting twist of fate sends Valentine to the Italian countryside and the shores of Capri where more than just learning the trade of shoe-cobbling awaits her. A family secret, a budding romance, and a fiery desire to succeed fuel Valentine’s artistic voice as she finds

Looking at the

Big Picture by Kathryn Davis

As a Christian, I’ve always felt that I needed to do a better job of listening for that “still, small voice of God.” And finally, it seems that I may be getting the hang of it. In today’s harsh economic climate, we’ve all had to make some tough decisions, whether personal or professional. At Piedmont Broadcasting, where I’ve been a news reporter for 11 years, our company officials decided it was time to place more emphasis on our advertising department and take our commercials to the next level. They felt they needed to add another person to the department, and since I’m a writer and have written ads before, they chose to move me from news to writing commercials. At first the idea took me by complete surprise. But the more I thought about it, the more logical it seemed. And now the move actually makes perfect sense when I figure God into the picture.

out a lot about what it will take to make a business profitable in the 21st century. I am a self-professed Adriana Trigiani devotee. I follow her website religiously and am always investigating opportunities to hear her speak in person. I had the opportunity in 2004 to hear her presentation at the Wednesday Club. Bubbly and passionate when speaking about her Italian-American heritage, Trigiani invites you to be a part of her family through her words. If you love books, you will find yourself impatiently waiting for the next installment in this promising series. For more information visit www.adrianatrigiani.com. April Hawkins is a second- grade teacher at Sacred Heart School whose salary goes to support her addiction to books. The Danville native is proudly raising her daughter to be a book lover.

I realized some time ago that I was spending way too much time at work and not enough with my family and my church. I knew this, but I didn’t know how I could get my work done any faster, so I asked God for help. I had no idea how He would change things, but now I believe this job change, within the same company, was His answer. After all, I am a writer, so it’s just a matter of learning the latest methods and techniques in my new department. If I had any doubts, God’s confirmation came the very next day after I learned of my reassignment. I’m a member of Bible Study Fellowship, and we were studying about the life of Moses and how God led the people through the desert using a pillar of cloud. When our teaching leader stood to address more than 80 women, her first words were, “Are you trusting God to move you when and where He wants you to go?” I said to myself, “Okay, God, I get your message.” The next time something really unexpected happens in your life, will you dismiss it as an inconvenience or a frustration? Or will you stop and examine it first to see if God may be sending you a message?

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April 2009