Evince Magazine
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May 2009
March Contents 2
Editor’s Note
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Believe by Liz Sater
Spring Pops with Danville Symphony by Mary Franklin
Families Are Invited to a Beach Party by Nancy Tait
Remember playing Mother, May I? a childhood game where you advanced forward only if you remembered your manners and said, “May I?” I thought of that pastime when reading the articles in the May issue of Evince. I counted a dozen or more stories about new experiences and I want to do them all. Instead of “May I?” I’ve been asking myself, “Can I? Can I do it all?” My calendar is filled with possible excursions. Why don’t you try a few or all? Every Saturday morning starting at 8 a.m. sharp, the Danville Community Market opens and the place is bustling with business. See Liz Sater’s story on page 3. If you’ve never had a facial (and it doesn’t matter if you’re male or female) read Face to Face on page 6; see what it’s like and then schedule one. Read about a local beach party on page 4. It’s as close as Craghead Street and fun for the entire family. Want to float down a river? Check out the First Saturday Outing on page 8. Of course, attendance at the 35th Annual Festival in the Park is mandatory. It’s not spring until you’ve gone to the Festival. Then drive over to South Boston and watch 10,000 ducks wearing sunglasses race down the river for prizes. Maybe yours will win! Settle back and enjoy the Danville Symphony Orchestra’s Spring Pops Concert written about on page 3. There’s an author with a new book coming to town and she wants to meet you. Her story is on page 4. How many of you have ever watched a professional opera? You’ll have a chance this month. Read about it on page 14. Heather Vipperman of the Tourism Department wraps it all up in her story What Is There to Do in Danville? on page 5 and of course, the May calendar is on page 12. Escape the drudgery of dayto-day routine and enjoy these wonderful activities. I’ll be looking for you. Can you do it all?
Author Grace Thomas Promotes Newest Book by April Hawkins 5 What Is There to Do in Danville? by Heather Vipperman 6 Face to Face by Larry Wilburn Working with Males in a Female’s World by Joyce Wilburn
7 She Said He Said / The Art of Arguing by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham 8
DRBA’s First Saturday Outing Floats Smith River by T Butler Around the Table / It’s Strawberry Time by Annelle Williams
9 Allison Bellamy / The Heart of the Garden by Tony Adcock 10 Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Dave Slayton Camps & Workshops by Deborah Morehead 11 Second Thoughts / What a Doll by Kim Clifton
Around Downtown South Boston Adopt a Duck…Race a Duck…Help a Charity by Jerry Van Eimeren
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
Larry Aaron, Tony Adcock, T Butler, Kim Clifton, Joey Faucette, Mary Franklin, Jim Harper, April Hawkins, Dena Hill, Linda Lemery, Deborah Morehead, Larry Oldham, Liz Sater, Dave Slayton, Nancy Tait, Jerry Van Eimeren, Heather Vipperman, Joyce Wilburn, Larry Wilburn, Annelle Williams
Business Manager Paul Seiple paul@evincemagazine.com (434.791.7353) Sales Manager Larry Oldham larry@evincemagazine.com (434.728.3713) Sales Associates Misty Cook (434.728.2905) Julia Maultsby (434.489.1014 ) juliamaultsby@comcast.net Kim Demont (434.836.1247) kim@evincemagazine.com
evince\i-’vin(t)s\
14 Stay Married Forever / Are You Listening or Hearing? by Dr. Joey Faucette Festival in the Park / 35 Years and Still Growing by Heather Vipperman Reflecting Forward / An Open Letter to Graduates by Linda Lemery
OICE for women
Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden) Graphic Designer Kim Demont
12 May Calendar
THE
Publisher
4 Rosalee Maxwell Directing Travelers to Danville by Joyce Wilburn
Editor's Note
Ve ince
Life Is Opera and Opera Is Life by Jim Harper
15 The Beast III Eliminates Competitors by Larry Aaron
1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW Editorial Policies:
eVince is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute eVince free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.
EVINCE Magazine
On the Cover:
Photo of Rosalee Maxwell by Robert Fowlkes. See story on page 4.
300 Ringgold Industrial Pkwy Danville, VA 24540 © 2009 All rights reserved.
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 Liz Sater is the Economic Development Projects Coordinator for the City of Danville, VA. Liz authors our monthly column, Believe, covering business developments.
Tony Adcock is the internet sales manager for Blackwell Automotive and an avid nature photographer.
Heather Vipperman is Assistant Director of Tourism for the City of Danville, VA. www.visitdanville.com (photo by Patrick Jinks)
Jerry Van Eimeren is Executive Director of Destination Downtown South Boston.
Deadline for submission of June stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 21. Submit stories and articles to: joyce@evincemagazine.com. Submit calendar items to: kim@evincemagazine.com. For ad information contact a sales associate or sales manager above.
Evince Magazine
D
anville’s Community Market started in the 1930s near the stables on Spring Street in Downtown Danville as the Curb Market. The Market Master resided there and was responsible for such things as egg grading and calibrating weights and measures. Now, on Saturday mornings from May through October, a vivid cross-section of our community gathers at the former Southern Railroad freight warehouse at the Crossing at the Dan on Craghead Street to buy and sell locally produced vegetables, meats, baked goods and crafts. The transition between the two locations began in 1979, when the City of Danville acquired an old warehouse from the railroad to be used as a venue for the early Harvest Jubilee celebrations. By 1995, it was clear that the building needed renovations. Applications were made for a grant to improve the property and by April of 1997, the Community Market opened for business with four vendors. Dennis Forslund, Crossing Program Director and Community Market Manager, tells of those times early in the Market’s history, when he would wake at 1 a.m. on Saturdays, drive to Raleigh, North Carolina, fill his truck with produce and return to the Market by 8 a.m. just to make sure there was something for sale. Now he makes certain that anything
Familiar and popular tunes are on tap when the Danville Symphony Orchestra presents an eclectic selection of music at its upcoming pops concert, A Spring Potpourri. The musical pieces run the gamut from Broadway and television to movie scores. Director Charles G. Ellis notes, “A Spring Potpourri runs the spectrum of possible music for a pops program, covering the best of early 20th century Broadway and America’s popular music to TV and movie themes and children’s themes like Mumble-Happy Feet.” An Irving Berlin Collection and Salute to Cole Porter are reminiscent of the Golden Broadway Era. Other featured selections consist of: A Tribute to Henry Mancini, including The Pink Panther and Fiddle Faddle; Gabriel’s Oboe from The Mission; The Best of the Beatles; The Wild, Wild West and more. Motivated by their love of music, the 62- member volunteer orchestra works tirelessly to prepare musical programs that
Believe...
In the redevelopment of Danville's Historic Downtown and the Tobacco Warehouse Districts by Liz Sater, Re-Development Coordinator purchased at the Community Market was made, grown or produced by sellers within a 50mile radius. Although the produce is the driving force for the market, Forslund acknowledges the emerging demand for local, grass-fed and free-range meats. One vendor who provides free-range chicken and farm-fresh eggs reports that they simply cannot keep up with the demand.
Other vendors regularly offer hormone-and-steroid- free beef and pork, which Forslund admits is an acquired taste. “Now, it is the only red meat my wife and I can tolerate,” he says. The Community Market has become one of Danville’s most popular venues. Generally, there are 45-60 vendors, and during the peak season, 1500 to 2000 patrons per day walk through its doors. “We would love to be open an extra day during the week, if
Spring Pops with Danville Symphony by Mary Franklin
will bring joy to their audiences. The DSO received wonderful comments following its most recent concert. Attendee Larry Wilburn wrote: It is not uncommon after a significant event that people ask, “Where were you when…?” That question crossed my mind the day following the Danville Symphony Orchestra’s Winter Classical Concert. For those of us who have been following the orchestra’s development for 17 years, we witnessed the coming of age of one of Danville’s greatest assets that night. Under the baton of guest conductor, Dr. Jonathan Green, this gathering of dedicated musicians took on difficult compositions by great nationalist
composers such as Tchaikovsky, Grieg, and Wagner. I was awed by the superb performance of the opening piece Marche Slave and so was the audience. If not performed exceptionally well, this piece can be cumbersome and weigh heavily on the listener. That was not the case with our orchestra whose splendid playing moved the piece to a rousing conclusion. When the last note sounded, thunderous applause, shouts of “bravo” and loud whistles cheered the performance, while demanding that the conductor return to the stage for another bow. We were all just blown away. Our friends, recent transplants from New York,
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demand is there,” says Tish Lindsey, Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, who expects the demand to increase in this economy. “Many of our vendors have other jobs and farm as a sideline,” she explains adding, “Now, more people are interested in making a living at it.” Over 50 people showed up for a start-up seminar that was held to orient first-time Market vendors. Lindsey is excited about the other community services available at the Market. “We want it to be more of a destination – a place you can bring the family and make a morning of it,” she explains. To reach that goal, they are adding cooking demonstrations that highlight healthy eating and the advantages of buying and consuming local produce. Also, twice a month, patrons can have their blood pressure and body mass checked, and every Saturday volunteer Master Gardeners are on hand to give advice about growing and nurturing plants. Free wireless internet connections are available and on some days there will be live, spontaneous musical performances. With so much happening at the Community Market, it’s obviously very appropriately named. For more information, call 434.797.8961.
were stunned and could not believe the skill and passion on display. The audience rose to its feet in standing ovation to acclaim and claim our orchestra. I don’t mind admitting that I was proud to be a Danvillian! I hear it all the time from those new to our city that we, the citizens of Danville, do not understand the uniqueness and beauty of all we have: the wonderful architecture, the River Walk, VIR and many other points of interest. I would add the Danville Symphony Orchestra to that list as one of our most cherished gifts that deserves greater support. Plan to attend the DSO’s free Spring Pops Concert on Saturday, May 16, at 8 p.m. in the GWHS Auditorium, 701 Broad Street. Then, if someone asks, “Where were you when the DSO played…?” you can triumphantly say, “I was there!”
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May 2009
Families Are Invited to a Beach Party
W
hen Danville’s Director of Tourism, Rosalee Maxwell, arrived in Danville as an Averett College freshman in the mid 70s, she was scared. Coming from a small Leesburg, Virginia, high school that had a graduating class of five, (she was the valedictorian) the thought of being one of 50 to 100 students in a classroom was terrifying. But that didn’t stop her from succeeding and graduating in 3½ years with a degree in physical education. In that short span of time, her roots in Danville grew to the point that she didn’t want to return to her hometown. “I decided not to go back to the rat race in Northern Virginia,” she says, “and thought my career would be in aquatics.” But fate had other plans for her. After short stints at Forest Hills Elementary School and Southern Virginia Mental Health Institute, she signed on with Danville’s Parks & Recreation Department to work in the afterschool and evening programs. In 1984, she accepted a full-time job at the Squire Armory Recreation Center where she remained for 11 years until the position of Division Director for Senior Services opened. Finally, in 2002, Rosalee found the role that suited her perfectly, when she became the first Director of Special Events & Tourism, which evolved into Director of Tourism. In this position, her time is divided between tourism, the Welcome Center and collaborating with Assistant Director, Heather Vipperman, on special events. Helping to plan and host popular special events such as Mardi Gras, Racin’ & Tastin’, Festival in the Park, the July 4th celebration, Harvest Jubilee and Fridays at the Crossing, Brew Fest, and the Christmas Parade is enough to fill a work week and keep the 8-member staff busy, but there’s more. Rosalee travels for 3-4 weeks a year to trade shows and other events promoting Danville as the Heart of Southern Virginia to motorcoach tours and other travelers. “Tourists in Danville are business travelers, people visiting their families and friends, those who are driving through, and others who have made the city their destination to see our attractions,” she explains adding, “There are a lot of reasons why people travel and perhaps that’s why we should be referred to as the travel industry instead of the tourism industry.” Because her office is in the Welcome Center on River Park Drive off Route 58 East, it’s easy for Rosalee to visit with some of the 50,000 travelers who pass through the front doors each year asking for information or wanting to purchase locally-made items. “We always try to make a difference and give people more than they expect. Parks, Recreation, and Tourism is not just the icing on the cake, we are what keeps the cake from falling flat,” she says with a big smile and sparkling blue eyes that make a good first impression with strangers. The petite woman seems to carry the job responsibilities without any
by Nancy Tait
Rosalee Maxwell
Directing Travelers to Danville by Joyce Wilburn
Tickets are $5 for children ages 4-9; $10 for ages 10-18; $20 for adults. Children 3 and under are free. For more information and tickets, call 434-7915160 or visit www.dsc.smv.org. The Danville Science Center, a division of the Science Museum of Virginia, is located at 677 Craghead Street.
Author Grace Thomas Promotes Newest Book
problem except for one. “It drives me insane when I hear someone say there’s nothing to do in Danville,” exclaims the host of What’s Up Danville? on City TV 20 and then adds, “Sometimes there are so many things going on during the weekend— and some are free—you couldn’t do them all.” She wishes everyone would become active participants in the community and then tell others about it. “Look around and see the wealth of what’s in your community and become ambassadors for Danville,” she encourages. Rosalee has lived in the area all of her adult life, but once upon a time, she was a traveler to Danville who received a warm welcome and it caused her to stay. Now she has made it her life’s goal to welcome and entertain others. The Danville Welcome Center, 645 River Park Drive, is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 daily. In addition to maps, brochures, and other information about local and regional attractions, locally-made items and Danville souvenirs are available for sale. For more information, call 434.793.4636. For more information about special events, visit www.visitdanville.com.
Longing for an evening at the beach? Pack up the family. On Saturday, May 30th, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., the beach will be only a short drive away on Craghead Street at the Danville Science Center. “We’re looking forward to a funfilled night for everyone,” says Beach Party by the Dan Chair Gayle Barts and then elaborates: “Our summer Beach Party buffet is loaded with BBQ and sides and you can create your own dessert at the ice cream bar. Also, the C. Shells will be playing a variety of music. They play stringed and percussion instruments and incorporate puppets and other entertainment props into their show while encouraging children and adults to participate with hand motions and singing. After dinner take a shag lesson, stroll through the Butterfly Station and Garden, walk to the Riverwalk Trail beach, build sand castles, and dig for fossils.” The C. Shells appearance is sponsored by Daniel, Medley & Kirby. Special thanks for this special evening go to Neal Spivey, owner of Tiger Barbeque & More, Danville Pigs in the Park Festival Founder and Director Bill McMann, Abercrombie Oil Co, Barbara Bennett, Ethelyne Daniel and Budge and Carolyn Kent.
by April Hawkins
Rosalee Maxwell (right) and Anne Moore-Sparks, co-hosts of What's Up Danville?, prepare to ride fourwheelers at Birchcreek Motorsports on Kentuck Road, one of Danville's many attractions.
Described as a “mystery with fire”, On Main Street: A Gates Pond Mystery by Grace Thomas blends romance and mystery with an element of the supernatural. This second book in the series continues the story of the heard but unseen controller, Minnick, who brings together couples with extraordinary powers to tackle crimes. Thomas created two intense characters whose pasts have left them broken. Police chief Marcus Trevor Valentine, paralyzed in the line of duty, is enjoying a break from his duties when his path collides with Leena, a mysterious woman sent by Minnick. Circumstances throw these two individuals together with exploding consequences. Working together to solve multiple cases, Marcus and Leena explore their respective pasts while falling in love. Thomas began writing in high school and pursued it as a career after her daughter reached adulthood. Her first novel, Gates Pond, was published in 2006. With writers such as J.D. Robb and Agatha Christie as inspirations, Thomas set out to create a series that explores the “pillow talk” that
Evince Magazine
What Is There to Do in Danville?
7) Go fishing on the Dan River. We have some of the best stripper fishing in the area. 8) Head to Dan Daniel Park with your skateboard. 9) Ride your ATV or check out the dirt bikes at Birch Creek Motorsports Recreational Park on Kentuck Road. 10) Play paintball with friends. Design your own shirt.
by Heather Vipperman
That age-old comment, “There is nothing to do in Danville,” just won’t die. Have we become so accustomed to TV or computer entertainment that we don’t know how to be creative? With two young children, I am never at a loss for work to be done, but sometimes I just want to have fun. Here are my top picks for spending a day in Danville: Young Children 1) Go to the Danville Science Center and the Butterfly Station. 2) Visit a local playground and take a picnic lunch. 3) Explore the wildlife on the Riverwalk Trail. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera. 4) Bake cookies or visit a local bakery to buy everyone’s favorites. 5) Write a song or story together. Take turns making up the next sentence. 6) Use your favorite library book as inspiration for a game of dress-up. 7) Rent a movie, borrow one from the library, or attend
Movies in the Park at Ballou Park. 8) Go bowling. (With the kids along, adults can benefit from the bumper rails.) 9) Ride bikes together in the new bike lanes around town or on the Riverwalk Trail. 10) Make homemade ice cream or conduct a taste test to determine Danville’s best ice cream. Kids & Teens 1) Invite friends over for popcorn and a movie. 2) Visit a local bakery; try your hand at making bread the oldfashioned way. 3) Find a friend to teach you a new sport or hobby. 4) Plant a garden. How cool would it be to have fresh herbs all summer or grow your own salsa ingredients? 5) Try out the disc golf course in Ballou Park. 6) Hit the mountain bike trails at Anglers Park.
Adults 1) Attend a local concert or Fridays at the Crossing. 2) Shop the Community Market on Saturday mornings for fresh fruits, vegetables and more. 3) Meet your friends for lunch at one of our local cafes. 4) Ride the go-carts at VIR. 5) Volunteer. Many organizations would welcome the help. Call me. 6) Coach a sport. 7) Go to the lake for the day. 8) Take in a race. If you can’t go to a speedway, there is always remote-control racing. 9) Host dinner-and-a-movie night with friends. Switch it up and let the guys do the cooking. 10) Take a family trip. Looking at Danville through the eyes of a traveler will show you how lucky you are to have so much to do. For events you don’t want to miss, see the calendar on pages 12-13. For more information on these events and more, visit www. visitdanville.com or call the Danville Welcome Center at 434.793.4636.
transpires between couples. “I feel like the pillow talk between couples helps to advance the story,” Thomas says and then adds, “Character development-what they do, think and how they react to situations-- is more important than the actual mystery.” The mystery merely provides the background. Intending to publish a Gates Pond mystery each year, Thomas hopes the series will extend to 5 or 6 books. Each book will feature different couples brought together by Minnick. The final book will be an explosive conclusion to the series with all characters from each book uniting. Thomas will be signing books at B. Dalton Booksellers in Piedmont Mall on Saturday, May 23, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
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ASK DR. JUDITH
Judith A. Ostrowski, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Danville ENT Associates, Inc.
Q: Dr Judith, I have a hearing loss. Will hearing instruments help me?
A: If you have a permanent hearing loss
(sensorineural hearing loss, SNHL) you could benefit from hearing instruments. Hearing instruments can only be obtained from a Doctor of Audiology or other licensed dispenser. The FDA requires medical clearance from an MD, preferably an ENT, prior to being fit with hearing instruments. Hearing instruments are not amplifiers per se. They are digital signal processors that are designed to make sounds more audible, but most importantly to make speech clearer. If you have a hearing loss in both ears you will need hearing instruments in both ears. We are born with two ears for a reason. Hearing instruments come in different styles; from completely-in-the-canal to behindthe-ear. The style of hearing instrument you can be fitted with depends on a variety of reasons, such as the extent of hearing loss, size of ears and manual dexterity. Hearing instruments come in different levels of technology. There is a basic entry level technology, a mid-range technology and the high end technology. Advanced technology hearing instruments will benefit the user in a wider variety of listening situations. When obtaining a hearing instrument make sure that the instrument is the most appropriate in style and technology. Don’t sell yourself short by trying to save a few dollars. Hearing instruments help most if they are used on an everyday basis. Understanding speech is skill and when there has been a hearing loss the brain has lost some of that skill. The only way for the brain to relearn how to listen to speech clearly is by getting constant practice, not just with speech but with everyday environmental sounds.
Hearing Testing - Pediatric & Adult Hearing Aids & Aural Rehabilitation Assistive Listening Devices Custom-Made Swim Plugs Custom-Made Hearing Protection Race Car Driving Sets Payment Plan Available
Six gardens will be on tour in the Person County Town and Country Garden Tour, Saturday, May 30, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Cost is $10 from the Person County Museum of History, 309 North Main Street, Roxboro, North Carolina 27573 or at the first stop on the tour, 237 Stonegate Drive, Roxboro, North Carolina. Directions from Danville: From Route 58 East of Danville, turn onto NC 62 South to Milton, North Carolina. Go through the traffic light and onto NC 57 South. Continue through Semora to the flashing light. Turn right onto Concord Church Road. Cross the bridge. Stonegate Drive is the first road on the left. For more information, call 336.503.8770.
159 Executive Dr. • Suite C • Danville, VA 24541 Fax 434.792.0468
434.792.0830 • 800.368.7183 www.denthc.com Hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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May 2009
It’s Dance Recital Time
Face to Face by Larry Wilburn
& Dance Too has a Great Selection of DANCE GIFTS for All Ages Picture Frames • Music Boxes Water Globes • Jewelry Dance Ornaments • Figurines Jewelry Boxes • Key Chains Bears & Dolls • Dance Bags Pecoware Gift Sets And Much More
We Can Meet All Your Dance Recital Needs 413 Mt. Cross Rd., Suite 201 Danville, VA 24540
434/799-0757
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-5:30 • Sat 10-4
Mother’s Day Special Treat Your Mom with a Special Valued
Cosmetics Gift Set
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434-793-7695 Mom-Fri 10-5:30 • Sat 10-4
OK, I’ll admit it right up front. I was skeptical and a little nervous when I decided to get a facial. After all, I was moving into the realm of “women’s things” and could only imagine what that might entail. I was doing this because my wife told me I’d enjoy it and would feel “so much better.” Facial expert Ruth Zakhary guided me back to her station at Missy Bello & Company and told me to disrobe. Well, I thought, that’s strange—remove my clothes for a facial? Guessing my confusion, Ruth told me that I really just needed to take off my shirt so the various applications wouldn’t ruin it. What a relief! After removing my shirt, I dutifully climbed onto the table. My hair was wrapped in a towel and my hands moisturized and placed in very warm mittens. All I needed at this point was a margarita because I felt like I was on the beach. The low lighting and the soothing music relaxed me even more. Ruth talked me through all the steps: the exotic fruit applications, the various cleansers and the exfoliation. What was most curious to me was the miniature vacuum that sucked the impurities from my face. I’m sure there’s some irony in that statement, but I just can’t put my finger on it. It was kind of like sticking your face out of the car window at 70 mph with your skin being pulled away from your face. Don’t get me wrong, it was a pleasant experience. This was followed by a gentle face massage and although it didn’t smooth out the wrinkles, it did soothe my spirit. At one point, Ruth shared with me that quite a few men have facials especially those who work outside under dirty conditions. I figured with the occasional mud that splashes on my face while working in the garden, I was in good company. When I arrived home, my wife told me my skin looked much cleaner. That’s probably true because
Ruth Zakhary gives a facial to Jeanette Taylor.
three masks, two (or was it three?) washes and a cream application probably penetrated to my skin’s subcutaneous level without any difficulty. So guys, do yourself a favor and hint to your wife that in addition to the Direct TV baseball and hockey packages, a facial would be something different. Call Missy Bello’s and ask for Ruth. You can use your own name and tell her Larry sent you.
Working with Males in a Female’s World by Joyce Wilburn
Ruth Zakhary’s male clients aren’t shy about being in a female-dominated environment, if it means they’ll have healthier more attractive skin. “Road construction workers come to me to have the tar removed from their pores,” explains the esthetician whose own peaches-and-cream skin is the best advertisement for her work. Like her female clients, male customers usually have a specific reason, such as the extraction of blackheads, for scheduling a treatment. Ruth also offers waxing for men who
are competitive weight-lifters needing hair removed from their backs and chests and cyclists who want their legs to be “carefree and hairfree” now that summer is approaching. Ruth has been providing services for 14 years at 216 Mount Cross Road the current location of Missy Bello & Company. Her “assistant” is an Eight-inOne skin-care machine, which is as multi-functional as its name implies. During a one-hour facial, clients experience Ruth’s touch and the machine’s magic: a steamer that relaxes facial muscles to make extracting pore impurities easier, a circular massage brush that applies creams and exfoliates the outer layer of skin, and a vacuum that uses suctioning tubes to clean pores. For more advanced treatments, an ultraviolet high frequency probe might be used to sterilize the skin and increase blood circulation. Although Ruth’s customers have different needs and wants, the final goal is the same for males and females—healthier, more attractive skin. For more information call Ruth at 434.799.0025.
Evince Magazine She Said by Dena Hill The Art of Arguing Let's talk about the art of arguing. No, that's not an oxymoron like the former Elon College athletes, the Fighting Christians. There is an art to arguing or disagreeing. The first rule is to stick to the problem at hand. You always dig into the deepest recesses of your mind to conjure up conflicts we had ten years ago, which are hardly relevant to the problem at hand. You complain constantly about all of the projects that I like to do and at the same time you'll chide me about how I'm turning into my mother, because she didn't like to cook, clean, or do laundry. You've never heard me complain about those chores; what I complain about is that you won't give me time to do them. You'll tell me how much I spoil my kids, and in the same breath, you'll complain about having to drive both ways to Greensboro to visit your family. Stick to the subject. Let's finish talking about my kids first and then move on to something else. If you want to complain about the fact that I have school work or housework to do instead of sitting on the sofa holding hands, then let's hear it. But in the middle of the sentence, you'll casually throw in "And by the way, why did you let your son park in the driveway knowing you would have to move his car in the morning and if I park there at the wrong time, you fuss at me? Why don't you ever fuss at him? Why can't you treat me the same way you treat him?" Do you see how you go off on a tangent and veer from the subject at hand? There is no need to bring up past grievances. Speak your peace and move on. I'm a big girl and I can take it. Besides, the shorter our arguments are, the quicker we can get to kissing and making-up.
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he Said by Larry Oldham I believe I counted ten different subjects in your ranting....arguing, Elon College, ten- year-old conflicts, projects, your mother, chores, spoiling kids, driving to Greensboro, my mother, fussing at your kids. Where does a man even begin? First of all, I never knew we argued or fussed. I view frank discussions about all subjects fair game and just opinions. Sometimes we agree and sometimes we disagree. Children have never been a problem for me. Your double standards, on the other hand, have been the subject for discussion a couple of times. I only suggest that everyone in the house be treated the same. All rules should apply equally. All of your children are grown, therefore, I assume that house rules apply to everyone. If I use a case history from yesterday or ten years ago, it is not to bring up an old subject, but to apply that situation to a current situation, because the former situation was resolved. This might just be the old Men Are from Mars and Women Are from Venus argument. I have never complained about projects or housework, and I certainly have never compared you with your mother. That would be grounds for dismissal I am sure. I think most of the time I am saying one thing and you are hearing something else. As a matter of fact, I would not be surprised if after reading my answer, your assumption would be that I was talking about rocket science not relationships. Not changing the subject, but could we get back to that kissing and making-up thing? Just exactly what all would that involve?
She said He said
Jackson & Perkins Roses Have Arrived Shop Early for Best Selection New rose care sheets available
Don’t Forget Mother’s Day - May 10th Saturday, May 16th • 10 am
Container Gardens Saturday, May 30th ª 10 am
Miniature Gardens CALL FOR DETAILS
Area’s Largest Selection of Traditional & Unusual
Perennials Culinary & Ornamental
Herbs
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E-Banking Celebrating the Past, Living our Present, Preparing for the Future.
He Said / She Said can be seen in Showcase Magazine.
Your Real Estate Advisor Q: At What Price Should I List My House For Sale A: Your REALTOR will do a market analysis and advise you of a fair listing price. If you really need to sell now, don’t mess around. List your house at what the market dictates, not the price that your friends, relatives or co-workers got for their house last year or 2 years ago.
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
www.amnb.com
434.792.5111
MEMBER FDIC
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May 2009
DRBA’s First Saturday Outing Floats Smith River by T Butler
On Saturday, May 2, the Dan River Basin Association will float the most popular section of the Smith River--Marrowbone Creek Access to Mitchell Bridge in Henry County, Virginia. Meeting at 10:00 a. m. at the Richard Gravely, Jr. Nature Preserve, 2525 Eggleston Falls Road in Ridgeway, Virginia, the group will launch their boats at the nearby access point. The 3.5-mile blueway Smith River Trails section, rated Class 1, is suitable for novice paddlers. For the first ½ mile of the trip, the river flows alongside the Gravely Nature Preserve’s high bluffs where paddlers can glimpse the first section of the Rhododendron Trail. As the name implies, the path winds through a rhododendron thicket as it hugs the river’s edge. About a mile farther on, Leatherwood Creek, on which Patrick Henry lived from 1779 to 1786, enters from river left. Paddlers often enter the wide mouth of the creek and take a leisurely side-trip up the shaded
stream to observe woodland wildflowers and birds. After the float, participants in this First Saturday Outing can take an optional selfguided hike in the Gravely Nature Preserve. Developed by the Association and Henry County, with funding from The Harvest Foundation, the 75-acre preserve features two miles of interpretive trails. Historic features include early 20th century tobacco barns and the Burgess Family cemetery, reminders of former owners of the property.
May has my vote for the Most Beautiful Month of the Year. It’s also a strong contender for the busiest. There’s May Day, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, end-of-theschool year activities, and graduations, not to mention gardening of every kind. Whether you’re celebrating, entertaining, or just enjoying this beautiful month, you’ll surely need a special dessert to add to your menu. May is the month for fresh, locally grown strawberries, so treat yourself and your friends to a Strawberry Meringue Glacé. This is such a delicious, easy dessert, and always well-received. Substitute other fruits
Participants are asked to bring boat and paddles, life jacket, hiking boots or shoes, lunch and water, and dress in layers of artificial (quick-drying) fabric. To reach the Gravely Nature Preserve from U. S. 220 south of Martinsville, turn east at the traffic light onto Old Sand Road. Cross the U.S.58 overpass and immediately turn left onto Eggleston Falls Road. Travel about two miles to the preserve on the left across from the foot of Old Mill Road. For more information, call 276-694-4449 or email wynbtyk@embarqmail.com.
as they become locally available--peaches and blueberries are especially nice. Make the meringues several days in advance, and store them in airtight containers until ready to serve. Avoid making meringues on rainy or very humid days, because the extra moisture won’t allow the shells to dry and harden properly. For a twist on the more formal Glacé, and a way to use extra meringues, try Eton Mess. It’s simply a combination of crumbled meringues, sliced strawberries, and sweetened whipped cream served in small bowls or parfait glasses.
Strawberry Meringue Glacé Meringues:
It's Strawberry Time by Annelle Williams
4 egg whites, room temperature 1 tsp. almond extract 1/8 tsp. cream of tartar 1 cup sugar Pre-heat oven to 225°. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Beat egg whites until they are foamy and hold soft peaks. Add almond extract and cream of tartar. While beating, add sugar one tablespoon at a time. Beat until all sugar is incorporated and meringue forms stiff peaks. Fill a large zip-lock bag with the meringue. Cut an opening in one corner of the bag and pipe 6 circles about 3 inches in diameter onto the parchment, filling in the center of each one. Then pipe another circle on top of the outer edge of each meringue forming sides. Pipe any leftover meringue onto parchment in individual “kisses”.
Bake the meringues for 1 hour. Then turn the oven off, open the door and leave them in the oven another hour to finish cooling and drying.
Strawberries:
1 qt. strawberries, washed, capped and sliced 1/2 cup sugar Sprinkle sugar over sliced berries; stir and wait for 1 hour to form syrup.
Vanilla ice cream
Place meringue shells on individual serving plates. Add 2 scoops of ice cream to each shell. Top generously with sliced berries and syrup and garnish with a “kiss”.
Evince Magazine
Page 9
Photo by Tony Adcock.
Allison Bellamy The Heart of the Garden by Tony Adcock
When I arrived at the Danville Science Center’s Butterfly Station, I found ten people on their hands and knees toiling away. When asked about their contribution, they resounded in unison that Allison Bellamy was the driving force behind the garden and was the “heart of the garden”. Bellamy came to Danville in 2002 because it was the half-way point between where her children lived. Trained as a Master Gardener in Florida, this former high school biology teacher quickly found volunteer opportunities at the Butterfly Station and was hired as the garden manager a year later. During this time, her husband became terminally ill and she found her time at the garden was therapeutic for both of them. Bellamy describes the garden as a peaceful, quiet, wonderful place where she could forget the bad. “It made life bearable,” she says. After his death, a memorial service was held at the garden in 2004. Founded in 1999, the Butterfly Station was the brainchild of Sandy Pruitt and was made possible by generous donations and the labor of the Danville Master Gardener Association. The initial stock of butterflies released this year came from out-of-state growers, but the DSC has chrysalis on hand from last year for later use. The Butterfly Station is host to the entire life cycle of butterflies and its beautiful vegetation feeds every stage of life. The plants supply a place to lay eggs, food for caterpillars, and nectar for the butterflies. The garden boasts one of the best collections of perennials in the area. There are normally 10-12 native and non-native species of butterflies present during the season, which runs through October. Plan to visit the Butterfly Station, look around, and pause a moment to think about the hard work of a small group of people, especially Allison, and follow her advice to “Smell the Goodness.” The DSC, Butterfly Station and Garden at 677 Craghead Street are open Tuesday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from1-5 p.m. For more information, visit www.dsc.smv.org or call 434.791.5160.
Neurology & Sleep Clinic of Southern Virginia 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
• Imbalance • Memory Loss • Epilepsy • Back Pain • Dizziness • Tremors
• Weakness • Leg/Arm Pain • Anxiety • Falls
Drs. Cuebas & Hurtado also perform EMG/Nerve conduction studies, EEGs, Sleep Studies, and therapeutic Botox injections.
Snoring, Apnea, Restless Leg Syndrome, Insomnia? Call us!
434-792-3232 The Neurology & Sleep Clinic of Southern VA, where you can put your sleep problems at rest. Dr. Juan E. Cuebas Board Certified in Neurology & Sleep Medicine
Dr. Rafael V. Hurtado Board Certified in Neurology
178 Executive Drive, Danville • www.neurologist.medem.com
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May 2009 camps (unless otherwise noted) will be held at the IALR. For more information, visit www.ialr.org/ education/life-long-learning/ssacamps or call 434-766-6787.
Workshops for Teachers
Camps & Workshops by Deborah Morehead 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.
by Dave Slayton As a Big Brother to a 10-year-old Little Brother (Big Brother & Big Sisters of Danville), I recently learned from him that people are buried under the Great Wall of China. When he told me that, I thought I might be able to encourage his interest in China (and reading in general) by buying him a book about the Great Wall. A librarian friend recommended a book from the Eyewitness Book Series. With that information, I proceeded to the B. Dalton Bookseller at Piedmont Mall. I was (once again) cheerfully greeted by Regina Shively, who listened attentively to the details of my reason for wanting to buy this book. She walked with me to a display and pointed to a $3 book on the history of China. I agreed to purchase it, but decided to also order the Eyewitness book as well. Regina, with a pleasant and genuine smile, promptly found the book listed in the store’s database and ordered it for me. It arrived a few days later. Having worked in retail stores and knowing that it is not easy to consistently greet and serve your customers day after day makes me appreciate Regina even more. There is a lot more to retailing than simply wearing a smile, but it is important to be pleasant to the customer, because it can be one of the first things the customer will see upon entering the store. We all know that first impressions are important. That initial greeting can be the determining factor for a purchase and even more important for repeat purchases. Sounds simple and like common sense, especially in our present economic situation, but too often, I find it not to be the case. That is why I appreciate Regina's outstanding service. She reminds me of a line from the theme song of the hit TV show Cheers: "and they're always glad you came". For these reasons, I nominate Regina Shively for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award.
The weather is heating up and so is the excitement about summer programs at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR). Make plans now to take advantage of the opportunities available at a very low cost – or even free – for citizens of Southside particularly students and teachers.
Kids’ Camps
The IALR’s ever-popular kids’ camps – known as Southside Summer Adventure (SSA) – offer a summer of fun that includes cool chemical reactions, engineering, physics, nanoscience and other exciting topics. From early June through late July, youth from Southside Virginia can attend one of seven summer camps in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education for students entering grades 3 through 9. The cost ranges from $50 to $150 and includes snacks, lunches, supplies, and other related expenses. Each session is led by experienced teachers and local college interns. All
Thanks to the generosity of the Tobacco Indemnification Commission (TIC), teachers have the opportunity to add skills to their teaching toolbox at the Summer Educators Development Institute (SEDI). The IALR is offering more than 30 workshops in subjects ranging from photography and PowerPoint to a new class called GoogleEarth. Taught by Danville Community College’s Rob Huffman, this class allows 3D mapping and a look at distant galaxies, thanks to the Hubble Telescope. Back again this year will be popular instructors Lynn Hoffman, Sharon Bolan, and Channel 7 weatherman, Robin Reed, with his well-attended Weather in the Classroom workshops. Frank McKay, the 2008 North Carolina Educator of the Year, will teach hands-on learning techniques when he leads teachers into the water for his Stream School where they will learn stream quality analysis with basic equipment and then explore available technologies for student publishing. Most of the classes are free, but a refundable deposit is required. Recertification points can be arranged through individual school systems. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Register at http://www.ialr. org/education/life-long-learning/ nanoscience/summer-2009programs. The deadline to apply is June 1.
Students at Southside Summer Adventure receive hands-on experience with fun activities that help with math and science.
Evince Magazine What a Doll It’s official. On May 12th, I’ll be the same age as Barbie. My friends won’t be happy that I’ve beaten them to the punch to announce the second anniversary of my 25th birthday. There’s no need now to waste money on one of those embarrassing newspaper ads with my baby picture and silly poem. Besides, nothing rhymes with 50, anyway…except nifty. And from what I can tell, this birthday is anything but that. Unless you’re Barbie, of course, then life’s always been a pretty sweet ride. Even though this doll has been the rage since 1959, “playing Barbie” always bored me. In the early days, all you could do was change her clothes and pretend to be going places. After a while, Ken showed up in a hotrod, which had to be such a relief for her. Until then, getting around was most undignified. To make Barbie walk, you had to manhandle her by manually moving each leg. The trouble was, each step made her upper torso gradually descend backwards until her head touched the ground. Makes for a terrific circus act, but it’s not really the best posture for a high-profile celebrity. The other way was to hop her around like she was on an invisible pogo stick. Or like someone in K-Mart trying on shoes
Second T houghts by Kim Clifton ©2009
with the merchandising string still attached to both heels. When Barbie debuted in her zebra-striped swimsuit, you only had to decide if you wanted her to be a blonde or a brunette. But in the last 50 years, Barbie has had more personalities than Sybil. These days, kids playing Barbie don’t change clothes… they change Barbies. So now if Dental Hygienist Barbie wants to go to the beach, you’ve got to buy a Malibu Barbie to get her there. I’ve read where there have been hundreds of different kinds of Barbies, not just for special occasions such as Holiday Barbie. I’m talking about an excess of over 80 different occupations. What an HR nightmare to have to review her resume. “Hmmm…I see where you’ve been a cowgirl, an astronaut, a teacher, a Rockette, a flight attendant and a firefighter.” Who are we kidding, people…Barbie isn’t a role model. Barbie can’t keep a job. By trying to keep Barbie
Around Downtown South Boston Adopt a Duck… Race a Duck… Help a Charity by Jerry Van Eimeren, Main Street Manager
South Boston Duck Season is now open. No, don’t pull out the shotgun just yet. It’s the season for the 2nd Annual Ducks on the Dan Derby Duck Race for charity and on Saturday, May 16, the Dan River in Downtown South Boston will be awash in yellow with 10,000 yellow rubber ducks. After being adopted for $5 each, the numbered ducks will be dropped by crane at 3 p.m. from the 501 bridge downtown into the river where they will waddle toward the winners’ trap. The adoptive parents have a chance to win one of 20+ great prizes including: the grand prize of $5,000, or a 50” plasma television, or a one-week stay in a six- bedroom lodge in any Virginia State Park. The total prize value is over $10,000 and you do not have to be present to win. The duck race, sponsored by Destination Downtown South Boston, Italian Delight, and other businesses, is part of Family Fun Day in South Boston’s Constitution Square from 11a.m. to 5p.m. Enjoy a picnic in the park with great food, kids' games, prizes, inflatables, music and karaoke. The proceeds from the race benefit Destination Downtown South Boston and aids in their efforts to save historic downtown buildings from demolition, restore and revitalize the Historic Downtown Business District and build the economic vitality of the community. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit several other Halifax County charities. For more information see the insert and envelope in this paper or call the Quackline at 434-575-6246 or 1-877-80Quack or visit www.ducksonthedan.com.
real, the manufacturers have made the Barbie experience unreal. There was once a push for these toys to be anatomically correct. That’s just plain silly. What’s sillier is to continue creating new dolls to match the latest fad. If that’s the marketing plan, though, I’ve got a better idea. Sell me a middle-aged Barbie. One who’s got her chin against the bathroom mirror…sporting reading glasses and clutching tweezers. Better still…make me a Weight Watchers Barbie, pushing a buggy brimming with Aquafina…and sliding a points calculator over the label on a bag of chips. Best of all, fix me a Red Hat Barbie.
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One who’s decked out in a bejeweled purple dress and fully-plumed red chapeau… to proudly announce her new AARP eligibility. But with all her glamour, our 50-year-old Barbie doesn’t look 50. She’s never shopped for anything that lifts and separates. The only underwire she’s felt is the metal frame that keeps her upright and on her toes. The party’s over, Barbie…I know you’re lying about your age. When I was born, I weighed five pounds and 12 ounces. When you came into this world, you already had a figure to rival Marilyn Monroe. And you still do. Getting old is so much harder for the rich and famous. I swear if Joan Rivers pulls her face any tighter, pretty soon her ears are going to meet in the back. Believe it or not, for my 50th birthday, I don’t want fanfare. I don’t even want a party. All I want is a real Barbie that looks like me…one with crow’s feet and a chicken neck. I know I won’t get my wish, but that’s okay. Since she’s never going to look like me, I’ve figured out how I can look like her. Forget Botox and liposuction… I’m getting my makeover from Mattel.
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May 2009
May Calendar
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.
Through May 30
SBH Museum Exhibits – Artist of the Month-Judith Schier, 125th Anniversary of South Boston, Sugar & Spice and WW 2. South Boston-Halifax Museum – 434.572.9200.
Through May 31
Danville Parks & Trails Photography Contest – Winning photographs will be mounted and displayed at Ballou Center. Entries due by 5/31. 434.799.5215.
Through June 8
Seeing The Moment Exhibit – 41 photographs by 14 professional and amateur photographers. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.
May 1
Fridays at the Crossing. See ad page 13. First Friday Art Walk – Visit the studios, meet the artists and find handcrafted items at great prices. 5–7 pm. Studio 107, Martinsville. 276.632.3221.
May 1 & 2
Dancing Through the Ages – Meredith Gravely Dance Recital. 7 pm. GWHS Auditorium. 434.799.8072.
May 1 (thru 3)
Halifax County Heritage and Antique Machinery Festival –Times vary. Halifax County Fairgrounds. 434.572.6879. Forever Plaid – Popular musical. Halifax County Little Theatre. 3 or 8 pm. The Prizery, South Boston – 434.572.8339.
May 2
DRBA’s First Saturday Outing - See story page 8. Nature Hike – Guided hike. 9 am. Mayo Park, Roxboro. 336.597.7806. Wearable Art Class – Jacket or vest. 9 am-5 pm. SVAC Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Glass Art for Mother’s Day. 9 am-1 pm. SVAC Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Spring River Clean-Up – Take care of the Dan River by picking-up litter. 10 am–1 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.791.5160. Art on the Lawn – Enjoy art, music, art activities for kids, food and beverages. 10 am-4 pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644. Silver Anniversary Gala – An Evening at the Pyramids. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4162. Bob Ross Painting Class – Seascape. 10:30 am–3:30 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Fun with Folktales – Family story time activities (season finale). 11 am. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326. Story Time with Mrs. Amy. 11 am. LifeWay Christian Store, Coleman Center – 434.797.3690. Derby Day – Running of the “Danville Downs”. 3-7 pm. Danville Golf Club. Arts & Humanities – 434.792.6965. Main Street Cruise-In – Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of downtown while cruising classic cars. 6-9 pm. Downtown Danville. 434.791.6813.
May 2 (thru 30)
West African Dance & Drumming Class. Sat 10:30 am-12 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.
May 2 (thru October)
Community Market. Saturdays 8 am. See story page 3.
May 3
Visiting Authors Series – Still Baptists After All These Years – Past InsightsFuture Possibilities by Dr. Bill Leonard. 4 pm. Averett University’s Student Center Multipurpose Room. 434.791.5600.
May 4 (thru 25)
Boogie Monday – Beginner cha cha. Mondays 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center – 434.799.5216.
May 5
Thumbelina – A joyous musical. 10 am & 12:30 pm. Caswell County Civic Center – 336.694.4591. How to Improve Your Financial Health – 6-7 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
May 5 & 19
Tuesday Teasers: – Disc golf competitions for prizes. 5:30-7 pm. Ballou Park 434.799.5215.
May 5 (thru 26)
African Dance Ensemble – Learn the art of African dance. Tues 6-7:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.
May 5 (thru 27)
Koates Kids Pre-School Program. Ages 3-5. Tues/Weds 9:30 am–12 pm. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848.
May 5 (thru 28)
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.
May 6
Senior Bowling Tournament. 10 am–12 pm. Riverside Lanes – 434.791.2695. Toddler Story Time – Teddy Bear Picnic (season finale). Age 18 months3 years. 10:15 am. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326.
May 6 & 20
Fetch! Lab. 5/6 - Support the weight of a book using nothing but a sheet of paper; 5/20 - Experience vibrations and sound. Ages 8–12. 3:45–4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.
May 6 (thru 19)
Toastmasters - Conquer you fear of public speaking. Weds, 1 pm. NCBT. 434.793.6822.
May 6 (thru 27)
Guitar for Youth & Teens Class – Ages 5-17. Wed 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.
May 7
Wearable Art- jacket or vest. 9 am-12 pm. SVAC Martinsville – 276.632.0066. Young Professionals Networking Event (YoPE). 5:30-7pm. Invitation Destination. Danville Pittsylvania Co. Chamber – 434.836.6990. Exotic Garden Pests – 7 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160.
May 7 (thru 9)
5-6-7-8 Dance – Danville Academy of Dance Recital. 7:30 pm. GWHS Auditorium. 434.792.9106.
May 7 (thru 28)
Guitar for Adults Class – Thurs 5 pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.
May 8
Bike to Work or School Day – Hang up the keys for the day. 434.799.5215. Benefit Golf Tournament – Captain’s choice tournament. 1 pm. Caswell Pines. Sacred Heart School – 434.793.2656. Ladies Night Out – 6–9 pm. Eden, NC. 336.623.7789x3021. Cruz-In – Cars and trucks through 1977. 6:30 pm. Roxboro Commons. 336.364.2760. American Legion Pork Loin Dinner – Fundraiser. 5:30-8pm. American Legion Post 1097. egor1@comcast.net.
May 8 (Thru June 27)
Piedmont Arts Exhibits. Expressions 2009 – Eclectic mix of styles and media by local and regional artists. Opening reception & gallery talk 5/8, 6:30 pm. Artistic Expression: The Nexus of Recovery – In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Reception 5/15, 12pm. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville – 276.632.3221.
May 9
Tasty Saturdays. 8 am-12 pm. Farmers’ Market Martinsville – 276.632.5688. Amphibian/Reptile BioBlitz – Search for reptiles and amphibians. 9 am-3 pm. Anglers Park Parking Lot. 434.799.5215. 5K Race. 9 am. Gretna Elementary School. www.gretna5k.com. Butterfly Fun – Explore the butterfly’s life cycle while you learn amazing butterfly facts. Ages 5-8. 10 am-12 pm. Danville Science Center – 434.791.5160. Ribfest – Hot ribs & delicious foods, inflatables & activities for kids, arts & crafts, live entertainment. 10 am– 6 pm. Freedom Park, Eden, NC. 336.623.2110. Metropolitan Opera’s Production of Rossini’s Cinderella. See story pg. 14. Tinkers Car Club Cruz-in – Enjoy grilled hotdogs and bologna burgers while enjoying some of the nicest vehicles around. 4 pm. Southern Va. Higher Education Center. 434.572.7499. Alumni Homecoming – Alumni from DTI, VPI-Danville and DCC can enjoy BBQ dinner, campus tours, meeting with college friends, college history presentation and more. Tickets must be purchased by 5/6. 4-6 pm. Danville Community College – 434.797.2222. Chatham Concert Series – The 1 Tenor- Kevin Zakresky, tenor, and Katherine Dowling, piano. 7 pm. St. Mary’s Chapel, Chatham. kzakresky@ chathamhall.org.
May 9 & 10
SCCA SARRC/MARRS Challenge. VIR– 434.822.7700.
May 9 & 23
Auto Racing – Saturdays 2 pm. South Boston Speedway – 434.572.2695.
May 10 (thru June 7)
Danville Public Schools Art Award Winners Exhibit. 5/17-Awards presentation, 2-4 pm. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.
May 11
Chamber’s Annual Award Dinner. 6 pm. Stratford Courtyard Conference Center. Danville Pittsylvania Co. Chamber – 434.836.6990.
S M
May 2009 T
W T 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31
F S 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30
Mariachi Band. 6:30-9:30 pm. Los Tres Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 434.792.0601.
May 12
Polliwogs – Learn the life cycle of butterflies and make a butterfly craft. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160. Photography Club. 6:30-7:45 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
May 12 (thru 28)
Lifeguard Class. Tues/Thurs 4:307 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621. Parent/Tot & Preschool Swim Lessons. Tues/Thurs 6:15-6:45pm. YMCA–434.792.0621.
May 13 & 27
Recipe Club – 11:30 am. City Armory 434.797.8848.
May 13 (thru June 17)
Art w/ Flo. 9:30 am-12:30 pm, Glenwood Center or 6-9 pm, Ballou Annex. Weds. 434.797.8848.
May 14
How to Improve Your Financial Health – Tax-free investing. 12-1 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Open House Showcase. 6–6:45 pm. Fine arts presentation, 7 pm. Sacred Heart School – 434.793.2656. Park to Islands Canoe –Smoothwater paddling trip. 6–8 pm. Abreu/ Grogan Park. 434.799.5215.
May 15
Alzheimer’s Presentation – Ask the Neurologist. 12–1 pm. West Main Street. 434.792.3700 x30. GWHS Choral Spring Concert – Featuring songs from Broadway musicals. 7:30 pm. GWHS Auditorium. 434.799.6410. Coasters, Platters & Marvelettes – 7:30 pm. Martinsville HS Auditorium. Piedmont Arts Association – 276.632.3221.
May 15 (thru 17)
Festival in the Park. See story pg. 14.
May 16
Nestle 5K Walk/Run/Wheelchair Race. 9 am. Ballou Park. 434.548.9852. Ducks on the Dan Derby Duck Race. See story on pg. 11 and insert. Rediscovering the Forgotten Garden – An exhibition on the natural resources and history of Lee Memorial Park. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185. Timberlake Memorial Festival & Parade – Honoring veterans, car show, vendors, fun for kids and entertainment. 9 am. Roxboro. www.visitroxboronc.com. Special Saturday - Bug Out. Learn about some creepy crawlies and how insects are important to us.10 am12 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185. Mayo Lake Boat Day – All boaters are welcome to bring and show any type of vessel. 10 am-2 pm. Mayo Lake Park, Roxboro. 336.597.7806. Tree Giveaway – Register to win. 10 am–5 pm. Festival in the Park. City Beautiful Committee – 434.793.2943. Cork & Pork Festival – Wine and BBQ. 4-8 pm. Rock of Ages Winery, Roxboro. 336.365.7625. Danville Symphony Orchestra Spring Pops Concert. See story pg 3. An Evening with Groucho – Fastpaced 90 minutes of hilarity. 7:30 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339.
Evince Magazine Evening Movie – Family movie Ratatouille. 8:30 pm. Mayo Lake Park, Roxboro. 336.597.7806.
May 16 & 30
Art Time With Ms. Sarah. 5/16-Ages K-5; 5/30-Ages 6-12. South BostonHalifax Museum – 434.572.9200.
May 18 (thru 27)
Swim Lessons. Mon/Wed 6:30 & 7:20 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621.
May 18 (thru August 3)
Stained Glass Class – Learn glass cutting, project design, flat panel to 3D, color selection, density and texture. 9 am–12 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
May 19
Lifeguard Challenge. 4:30-7:30 pm. YMCA–434.792.0621. How to Improve Your Financial Health – Preparing your estate plan. 6-7 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
May 20
Doodle Bugs! - Concoct simple, slimy science creations. Ages 3-5. 10 am & 3 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4185.
May 21
Alzheimer’s Presentation – Maintain Your Brain-How to Live a Brain Healthy Lifestyle. 12–1 pm. West Main Street. 434.792.3700 x30. Woodlawn Academy Golf Tournament. 1 pm. Tuscarora Golf Club. 434.432.9244. Enchanted Evenings in the Park – Brass orchestra. 5:30-8 pm. Ballou Park. 434.799.5216. Tween Craft Night – Mini-wheelbarrow planters. Age 10-12. 6 pm. Mt. Hermon Library – 434.835.0326. Camilla Williams to Sandy River Canoe – Paddle the heart of Danville and never realize you’re in the city. 6–8 pm. 434.799.5215. Richmond Symphony – A concert of whimsical music of the theatre and ballet. 7:30 pm. The Prizery – 434.572.8339. Sky Watchers – Observe the constellations Bootes, Virgo and Cancer. Nightfall. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.
May 22
The Marriage-Go-Round – Comedy. 7:30 pm. Gretna Hampton Inn. Gretna Little Theatre – 434.228.1778.
May 23
Instant Piano For Hopelessly Busy People – $65 9 am-12 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Car Show – Antique Auto Club of America NC Region. 8 am-3 pm. Chinqua Penn Plantation – www.chinquapenn.com. Virgilina Summerfest.– 11 am-9 pm. 434.585.2657. Book Signing by Author Grace Thomas. See story page 4. Bluegrass Concert – 7-10 pm. Mayo Lake Park, Roxboro. 336.597.7806.
May 26
Party in the Park
Stock Car Open Test Day. VIR – 434.822.7700. Polliwogs - Explore the underwater world of ocean animals and create beach treasures to take home. Ages 3–4, 1–2 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.
May 27
Alzheimer’s Presentation – What Is Hospice and Palliative Care? 12–1 pm. West Main Street. 434.792.3700 x30.
Main Stage Schedule
Greek Food Fest. Lunch 11 am–-2 pm; Dinner 4-8 pm. Epiphany Social Hall. 434.792.3626. Park to Islands Kayak – Paddle on serene waters with the bonus of wildlife viewing opportunities. 6–8 pm. Abreu/ Grogan Park. 434.799.5215.
“Party in The Park”
May 28
May 28 (thru June 18)
Web Design: Online Entrepreneuring from Anywhere – Web design with setting up and promoting your business being the main priority. 9:30–11:30 am or 6–8 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848. Web Design: Fun and Profit for Teens – Teen’s, ages 13-17 will learn to create web sites for their school projects or a simple, teen-friendly online business to earn pocket money. 11:30 am-1:30 pm or 4-6 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.
May 29
TGIF Concert – Matt Boswell & the Hillbilly Blues Band. 7 pm. Martinsville Uptown – 276.632.5688.
May 30
Bug Daze Family Festival. – 10 am4 pm. Virginia Museum of Natural History – 276.634.4141. Person County Town and Country Tour. See picture page 5. Spring Skate Off – 11 am-2 pm. Philip Wyatt Memorial Skate Park. 434.799.5215. Faith Fest ‘09 – Good music, fellowship, food and fun. 12-7:30 pm. Constitution Square. 434.222.7366: www.sobofaithfest. com. Auto Racing – NASCAR Camping World Series. South Boston Speedway – 434.572.2695. Beach Party by the Dan – See story pg. 4. BBQ Bash – Food, drinks and music. 6:30–11 pm. The Barn, Leggett Farm. Sacred Heart School – 434.793.2656.
Upcoming Events June 1
Chamber Classic Golf Tournament. 434.836.6990.
June 5
Fridays at the Crossing See ad pg.13.
June 5 (thru 7)
Heacock Classic Gold Cup Historic Races. VIR – 434.822.7700.
June 6
Main Street Cruise-In. Downtown Danville. 434.791.6813.
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Friday May 15 • 5:30 - 8:30 featuring Backstreet
Saturday, May 16
11:00 – 11:30 • Westwood Middle School Chorus 11:30 – 12:00 • Westwood Middle School Jazz Band 12:00 – 12:30 • Rising stars talent contest winners WAKG & WBTM 12:30 – 1:00 • Junior Broadway 1:30 – 3:00 • Bluegrass Young At Heart 3:30 – 4:00 • Tommy Edwards 4:00 - 5:30 • Little Stuey & the Stranges
6:00 – Dusk Daryle Singletary Sunday May 17
1:00 – 2:30 • The Magnificents 3:00 – 3:30 • Sammy Terry & the Spiritual Highlights 3:30 – 4:00 • The Silver Stars from Blanch NC
4:30 – 6:00 The Canton Spirituals
Backstreet, Danville’s “Mainstay” band has been entertaining Danville for 25 years playing modern rock-n-roll, classic hits, and beach favorites. Join Phil Boyd and the gang at the Festival Mainstage Friday, May 15 for a “Party in the Park” from 5:30-8:30 pm. Adult beverages available.
Daryle Singletary “Rockin’ in the Country” at Festival in the Park. ‘Billboard’ magazine quotes; “Daryle Singletary is arguably, the best country singer of his generation.” He wows his audiences as a great singer, and equally fine entertainer while remaining true to himself, and his traditional roots. Hear Daryle sing your favorites like “I Let Her Lie”, “Amen Kind of Love”, and “Too Much Fun” along with new cuts from his latest album “Rockin’ in the Country.”
The Canton Spirituals
Appearing in the park on Sunday, May 17th will be one of the most popular and acclaimed contemporary gospel quartets in the United States. The Canton Spirituals with their smooth but powerful harmonies will surely have the crowd on their feet! The quartet is known for their urban sound that mixes R&B style with traditional gospel. Along with several Grammy Award Nominations, the Canton Spirituals have also earned Stellar, Dove, Soul Train, GMWA Excellence and Urban Network Awards.
For more information call 434.794.4636 or visit www.festivalintheparkofdanville.com
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May 2009
Are You Listening or Hearing? by Dr. Joey Faucette Marriage Coach
It’s Saturday morning. He’s worked 70 hours that week and is bleary-eyed and bone-tired. She wants to go to a big sale and wants him to go with her. What does she do? If she’s spouse-focused and actively listening, she realizes he’s in no shape to go shopping so she invites a girlfriend to go with her, tells him where she’s going, kisses him bye and is gone. If she’s self-focused—just hearing—she’s consumed with her desire for him to go shopping and starts badgering him and whining until he says, “I’ll go.” They have a miserable time and more emotional garbage piles up. Or, it’s Wednesday evening. They both arrive home about the same time. It’s her night to cook supper. She’s had anything but a good day. What does he do? If he’s spouse-focused—actively listening since they arrived home—he knows she’s too exhausted to cook. He either says, “Let’s go out to eat tonight. Where’d you like to go?” or “How about we switch nights to cook and let me do it tonight?” If he’s self-focused—just hearing—he knows it’s her night to cook and that’s what she agreed to do so he changes clothes, grabs the newspaper, flops in his recliner and turns on the TV. Can you smell the emotional garbage in that home? Active listening means changing your behavior to respond accurately to your spouse’s current condition. We all have less-than-perfect days. Actively listening allows you to focus on your spouse and give an appropriate, compassionate response. That’s one of the ultimate ways to Stay Married Forever. (This article is adapted from The Ultimate Stay Married Forever At-Home Study Course.)
Festival in the Park 35 Years and Still Growing by Heather F. Vipperman
The experts tell us that the life span of a festival is 10 to 15 years. Danville’s Festival in the Park will reach a milestone of 35 years on the third weekend in May. What has kept it going? Change. You may think it is the same every year, but the Festival couldn’t stay the same and still attract new visitors. The arts and crafts area is one of the foundations of the Festival. Over 100 craftsmen will be selling hand-made or hand-decorated items. New to the area will be the specialty market vendors who sell homemade items like dog biscuits and herb mixes. Another newbie this year is the hourly tree giveaway sponsored by the Danville City Beautiful Committee on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at their booth near the Park Avenue entrance. Children expect amusement rides, games, fingerprint IDs by the 38th Masonic District and fire safety training. The 2009 new additions include a Home Depot woodworking workshop, children’s author Angela Harris telling stories, Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism’s make-and-take crafts and a presentation by the Ultimate Canines Show & Exhibition. Other favorites from past years include the Health Fair, the Youth Art Gala in the lower level of the Ballou Center on Friday and Saturday, the Nestle 5-K Walk / Run, and all the good festival food-- funnel cake, cotton candy, popcorn, ribbon fries, and barbeque-- and, of course, the free entertainment. Friday kicks off with Backstreet playing at Party at the Park. Local school groups and regional entertainers perform on Saturday and Daryle Singletary headlines the evening. With his sixth album due out this spring and many chart-topping favorites under his belt, this is going to be a great evening. Four outstanding gospel groups will entertain Sunday afternoon: The Magnificents, Sammy Terry & The Spiritual Highlights, The Silver Stars, and the awardwinning Canton Spirituals. If you have too much work and think you can’t attend, no more excuses. Bring your laptop or iphone. Ballou Park is now equipped with free wireless internet service. The Festival in the Park, May 15-17 at Ballou Park on West Main Street, just can’t get any better…until next year. For more information see the ad on page 13 or visit www.festivalintheparkofdanville.com.
Reflecting Forward An Open Letter to Graduates by Linda Lemery
Dear Graduating Students: Congratulations on reaching this benchmark. You’ve persisted through many years of school. You’ve met every standard and you’ll soon earn your diploma. The world is at your feet. You have everything you already are and can become to offer to the world. The only limits you have are those you consider insurmountable. Because of your potential, you are immensely important to the world. I’ve wondered what graduation gift I could offer you via this column. After thinking long and hard about my own life and the lives of others, I offer you the suggestions listed below. On behalf of all of us at eVince, we wish you a wonderful future. You are the future. Congratulations! Most sincerely, Linda Lemery
Suggestions for Living
Invest in yourself.
• Continue your education in graduate school, a 4-year or a 2-year school, a vocational school, or other school. • Set high goals. Focus. Work first, then play. Ask for help when or before you need it. • If you’re scared of some subject, work hard to master the basics so fear of the unknown won’t hold you back. • Balance your passions against your projected future earnings. Attending college may require student loans. Major in something that you’ll enjoy doing every day, but will also lead to a job that will support you and your family. • Do the best you possibly can with your coursework. Course content that seems baffling, trivial, and useless right now may act as a conduit in ways that you cannot even imagine, channeling your life path toward a clearer, important, useful, and contributing future.
Celebrate diversity.
• Treat everything and everyone with respect. • Think through and honor your faith. • Do things for other people without expecting anything in return.
Do your best work at work.
• Become and stay organized. • Meet or beat your deadlines. • Be punctual, ethical, courteous, and kind. • Share your skills and talents by helping others realize their goals. By helping others, you leave a legacy. • Support the team, but grow as an individual.
Learn from life lessons. • Admit your mistakes.
• Own your weaknesses. • Laugh frequently and at yourself. • Persist. • Grow toward your potential.
Live responsibly.
• Tread lightly on the environment. • Think before you act. • Wait to have children. If you plan to have children, first save some money, stabilize your life, and grow your relationships so that you can do justice to the most important job you’ll ever have--being a parent. • When you have children, take care of them. When the time comes, take care of your parents. • Maintain your health through diet, exercise, vitamin supplements, and supportive relationships
Watch your finances.
• Manage them rather than letting them manage you. • Save money for retirement. A little per month, every month, builds up to a lot over the span of a working career. • Stay out of debt.
Exercise your brain.
• Do sudoku, crossword puzzles, word brainage frequently. • Read as much and as widely as you can, using a mixture of bound, paper, and on-line sources. Surround yourself with others who read and converse. Live your days in such a way that when you look back, you’ll have few regrets. Linda Lemery (llemery@gamewood. net) works at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville, Virginia.
Life Is Opera and Opera Is Life by Jim Harper
Opera is not just music. It incorporates love, religion, wit, dance, drama, beautiful women, handsome men, art, cuisine, humanity, philosophy, musical instruments, design and construction, directorial and choreographic inspiration - in short, the essence of civilization in each production. On Saturday, May 9, Danville Stadium Cinemas will present a live high-density broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera’s production of Rossini’s Cinderella, or Virtue Triumphant (La Cenerentola) with English subtitles. The simultaneous broadcast is in two acts. The one intermission includes a fascinating behind-the-scenes portrayal of how the Met operates. The interviews and set changes can be as exciting as the opera itself. Cinderella was first performed in 1817 and has been a favorite for nearly two centuries. It follows the well-known tale of a servant girl who marries the prince, but doesn’t include the pumpkin, mice, and 12 o’clock curfew found in the nursery rhyme version. This is considered a comic opera and features Elina Garanca (contralto) as Cinderella and Lawrence Brownlee (tenor) as the prince. It promises to be a delightful and fun 3-hour afternoon. Cinderella begins at 12:30 p.m. at Danville Stadium Cinemas, 3611 Riverside Drive. Cost is $20. For more information call 434.792.9885.
Evince Magazine
The Beast III Eliminates Competitors by Larry Aaron
If you walked into the Siegel Center at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond to waves of cheers surging back and forth, you might think you’re at a high-profile sports event. Instead crowds recently witnessed robots battling it out. No, it wasn’t the bloodletting spectacle of the Roman Coliseum in the days of the gladiators, but still just as intense. Chatham High School’s team , the RoboCavs with their machine, The Beast III, eliminated one competitor after another in a fierce set of challenges. The NASA/VCU Regional judged by a blue-ribbon panel of engineers and industry VIPs was a competition based on team alliances in a spirit of gracious professionalism. This was a game for brainiacs--a technosport, requiring computer programming, strategy, and skill in The Game, a technical engineering problem that changes from year to year. This year The Game was titled LUNACY, played on a 54’ x 27’ field with low- friction flooring using robots with slippery wheels and payload trailers. The goal was to put 9-inch orbit balls into the opposing team’s trailers. Three-team alliances formed and robots were operated remotely from the sidelines for the 2-minute 15-second game. FIRST Robotics (For Inspiration and Recognition of Robotics, Science and Technology) directs the competition. Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway and other creations that landed him in the National Inventors Hall of Fame, originated the idea of FIRST and wants to “harness the uninhibited explorers of the universe.” At this year’s NASA/VCU Regional 70 high schools representing 40 communities in Virginia plus the nations of Canada and Brazil gathered for the battle of the robots. The winner was guaranteed a place in the National Championship in Atlanta. After a full day of qualifying rounds, Chatham’s RoboCavs were in first place. After the semi-finals, Chatham’s The Beast III became one of the six machines chosen to compete in the final game of the championship. In the end, Chatham received a second place Silver Medal, edging out local teams from Danville and Halifax County, plus the Canadian and Brazilian teams. Quite a feat for Chatham, one of the smaller teams in the competition. The greatest accomplishment for Chatham, however, was not the Silver Medal, but that the students on the team designed, built, programmed, and developed a winning strategy for the robot, along with related efforts associated with the competition. They worked together in a true feat of engineering and technology. Being at the Siegel Center in Richmond was an unforgettable experience. No footballs were carried across the goal line, no basketballs were dunked into a basket, no home runs were batted out of the stadium, but the Chatham RoboCavs were champions just the same.
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