Discover Southside

“Looking Back to Look Ahead”

Courtney Tucker explores her journey of healing the emotional scars of life

STAFF

PRESIDENT

Chad B. Harrison

EDITOR

Bobby Allen Roach

GRAPHIC DESIGN | LAYOUT

Jess Ingram

GRAPHIC DESIGN | ADVERTISING

Amanda Meadows, Jasmaine Motley, Susan Lambert, Mary Beth Wellborn

WRITERS

Chuck Vipperman, Adam Powell, Ceilidh Hicks, Bobby Allen Roach

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Rachel Nanney

434-203-1058

advertising@chathamstartribune.com

OFFICE MANAGER

Louis Motley

A special publication of the Chatham Star-Tribune, Womack Publishing Company, Inc. 30 N. Main Street, Chatham, VA 24531 • (P) 434-432-2791 • (F) 434-432-4033

To advertise in Discover Southside or any of our special publications, call Rachel Nanney at 434-203-1058 www.chathamstartribune.com

Cover Page: Tunstall High School alumna Courtney Tucker published her first book this summer. Story on page 32. Photo by Emily Kathryn Photography.

CHECKLISTFun Fall Activity

DECORATE OR CARVE A PUMPKIN

BAKE YOUR FAVORITE FALL PIE

GO ON A HAYRIDE & GET LOST IN A CORN MAZE AT THE PUMPKIN PATCH

GO ON A HAY RIDE

ATTEND YOUR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL GAME

GO SEE YOUR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL GAME

ATTEND THE CLIMAX SORGHUM FESTIVAL

THRIFT A NEW SWEATER & SIT COMFORTABLY BY A BONFIRE

GO ON A SCENIC HIKE AT ANGLERS PARK

ATTEND THE LAST CHATHAM CRUISE-IN EVENT OF THE YEAR (SEPT. 23)

VISIT THE LOCAL FARMERS MARKET

TRY WEDNESDAY BINGO NIGHT AT BALLAD BREWING

PURCHASE BRUNSWICK STEW FROM A LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT

14

ATTEND THE GHOST & GRAVESTONES: HISTORICAL TOURS IN DANVILLE

15 GO TO THE HOPPER’S POPPER CRUISE-IN IN DANVILLE CITY

what’s going on AT DANVILLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE?

DCC UNVEILS CDL SIMULATOR

Danville Community College is cranking up a new program to meet the growing need for truck drivers.

On Monday, DCC unveiled the key part of their new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training Program. The CDL Simulator will be housed at the Regional Center for Training and Technology in the Cyber Park.

“The excitement around today’s CDL Simulator unveiling can be attributed to the resurgence of Danville Community College,” said Shannon Hair, vice president of Institutional Advancement and Development at DCC and executive director of the DCC Educational Foundation. “This resurgence has elevated our community impact and financial support from our donors so that, in turn, Danville Community College can purchase state-of-the-art equipment to support our growing enrollment. Without the financial commitment of the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County, today’s event would not have been possible.”

Danville City Council and the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors made donations to help purchase the simulator.

“Today’s CDL Simulator Unveiling is another example of the collaboration between the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and Danville Community College,” said Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones. “The City Council has said before, and I will say it again, we are going to continue to invest in education in our community and today’s event demonstrates that investment.”

With the simulator, students can virtually hop into the driver’s seat of a tractor-trailer, a school bus, a fire truck, and many other vehicles that require a special license to operate. It also simulates weather conditions, like rain, snow, black ice, and high winds.

“It is critical that our students learn how to operate these vehicles in an array of weather conditions for their safety and the safety of others on the road,” said Mark Funkey, vice president of Workforce Services for DCC. “There is rarely the opportunity to learn these kinds of skills during live training, but most long-

haul truck drivers will encounter these conditions during their careers. Our hope is that the lessons learned from the CDL Simulator will provide the knowledge our students need to stay safe in their careers, well into the future.”

After completing the CDL Training Program, students can earn a commercial driving license. In Virginia, the average starting salary for a licensed CDL driver is more than $63,000 a year.

“The Board of Supervisors recognizes the need and industry

Stories by Chuck Vipperman Photos submitted by DCC

Libby Spainhour tests out the new CDL simulator at Danville Community College’s Regional Center for Advanced Technology and Training.

shortage for CDL drivers in our county,” said Darrell Dalton, Chair of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. “When Danville Community College presented this opportunity to partner with the City of Danville to help fund this piece of equipment, it made perfect sense to us. We unanimously supported their request. Today’s unveiling is another example of communities working together for the good of our citizens and businesses in the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County.”

DCC launched its CDL training program in March. They’ve trained 5 cohorts producing 19 licensed CDL drivers.

“On behalf of the DCC Educational Foundation Board of Directors, we applaud the partnership between Danville Community College, the City of Danville, and Pittsylvania County,” said Portia Fitzgerald, DCC Educational Foundation Board Member. “Under the new leadership of Dr. Jerry Wallace, the impossible has become possible at DCC. The CDL Simulator is a perfect example of the college responding to community and industry needs.”

‘ACE THE MIGHTY CONQUERS KNIGHT SCHOOL:’

DCC publishes children’s book about president’s dog

On Tuesday, July 25, Danville Community College (DCC) hosted a Danville/Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce “Morning Brew” event at Links Coffee House Café to publicly launch a new literacy project that delivers an important message – that obstacles can be overcome with perseverance and grit – in the form of a children’s book, “Ace the Mighty Conquers Knight School.”

During the standing-room-only event, more than 60 Chamber Members looked on as Dr. Jerry Wallace, president of DCC, offered welcome remarks and spoke about DCC’s mission in the community.

“Danville Community College is committed to providing quality, comprehensive education, workforce programs, and services to promote student success and enhance business and community partnerships,” said Wallace. “This project is another example of how we are partnering with the community to embrace education and promote literacy.”

The book, authored by Wallace and Faith O’Neil, director of public relations and marketing, will be featured in an Elementary School Book Tour this fall, beginning with Pittsylvania County Elementary Schools. O’Neil shared the reason for the project with eventgoers and describe the twofold impact the story has on elementary students.

“Often in the community college setting, we find that students

question their ability to succeed in obtaining their higher education goals, often before they are even enrolled,” said Ms. O’Neil. “We hope that our local elementary school students will not only enjoy hearing the story and reading the book, but we hope that they will take away the important message that with hard work and persistence, goals can be achieved.”

Every class on the Elementary School Book Tour will receive a hardcover book for their classroom, as well as commemorative “Ace the Mighty” bookmarks and pins.

“We are so excited to share this project with the elementary schools across our service region,” Wallace said. “It is a unique opportunity for us to connect with our K-12 partners and support the community in a positive, fun, impactful way.”

The book includes several recognizable characters, including Dr. Carlyle Ramsey, DCC President Emeritus, who is featured as the Wise Wizard Carlyle; Ace, Wallace’s Yorkiepoo, who inspired and stars in the story; and Pippa, Ace’s real-life miniature schnauzer sister.

“Ace the Mighty Conquers Knight School” will be available for purchase in the Castle Bookstore on the DCC Campus beginning September 1.

To read “Ace the Mighty Conquers Knight School” online, visit www.danville.edu/AceTheMighty.

Danville Community College President Dr. Jerry Wallace, left, holds his dog Ace during the launch event for the college’s new book, entitled “Ace the Mighty Conquers Knight School.” The book was conceived by Director of Public Relations and Marketing Faith O’Neil, right, who led the project.

what’s going on AT DANVILLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE?

VCCS BOARD VICE CHAIR VISITS DANVILLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

On June 26, Danville Community College (DCC) hosted. Terri Thompson, vice chair of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) State Board.

Thompson’s visit focused on DCC’s ongoing commitment to providing quality education and strengthening community partnerships. Throughout her visit, she engaged in a series of events that highlighted the college’s achievements and its dedication to in-demand educational programs, according to a media release from the college.

“We are incredibly honored to have had the opportunity to welcome Ms. Thompson to Danville Community College,” said DCC President Dr. Jerry Wallace. “It is always a privilege to be able to showcase what our amazing faculty and staff are working on and how it is impacting our students and the community.”

CDL Simulator Unveiling at RCATT

One of the highlights of Thompson’s visit was the unveiling of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Simulator at the Regional Center for Advanced Technology and Training (RCATT). This cutting-edge simulator provides students with a realistic training experience, preparing them for successful careers in the transportation industry. Generously funded by the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County, the CDL Simulator will allow individuals to obtain experience driving in a variety of weather and terrain conditions.

DCC Advisory Board Meeting

Following the CDL Simulator unveiling, Thompson participated in a DCC advisory board meeting. The meeting was an in-depth display of all initiatives being undertaken by the college, including upcoming new projects and programs. Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of DCC, expressed his gratitude for Ms. Thompson’s attendance, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between VCCS colleges and their state board representation. He stated, “Ms. Thompson’s presence here today highlights the emphawsis that our Chancellor, Dr. David Dore, is putting on collaboration between the system office and the individual colleges.”

Breakfast with Dr. Jerry Wallace and Shannon Hair

The next morning, Thompson joined Wallace and Shannon

Virginia Community College System Board Vice Chair Terri Thompson visited Danville Community College on June 26. She is pictured, left, with DCC President Jerry Wallace, right, who is presenting her with a peace lily as a gift for her visit.

Hair, DCC vice president of institutional advancement and development, as well as executive director of the DCC Educational Foundation, for a breakfast meeting. Over a cup of coffee, they discussed the college’s ongoing initiatives, challenges, and plans for future growth.

Community Tour and DCC Campus Visit

Following breakfast, Thompson embarked on a comprehensive community tour and visited various academic departments on the DCC campus, led by Dr. Cornelius Johnson, DCC vice president of academic affairs and student services. The tour included stops at the early childhood education center, precision machining lab, cosmetology lab, and graphic imaging lab. The visit provided Ms. Thompson with firsthand insight into DCC’s array of educational offerings and their impact on students’ career readiness.

“It was a pleasure to take Ms. Thompson on a tour of the DCC campus to learn more about our great programs, and our dedicated faculty who all bring it to life,” Johnson said. “What better way to become acquainted with our campus culture, and the many pathways we offer in assisting students in fulfilling their career aspirations at DCC.”

During her visit to the early childhood education program, Thompson witnessed the college’s commitment to training future educators. She even received a warm welcome from the children attending daycare at the childcare center. In the precision machining lab, Thompson observed the college’s state-of-the-art equipment and industry-aligned curriculum that allows students to depart the program fully prepared for

a career in machining. At the cosmetology lab, she marveled at the creativity and talent displayed by the students. During her visit to the graphic imaging lab, Thompson witnessed the intersection of technology and creativity.

“This visit was absolutely amazing. I was blown away with the great work DCC is doing for the students and the community,” Thompson said. “Dr. Wallace has certainly made a positive impact within the community and at DCC. His strategic and creative leadership and vision for DCC is impressive and his passion is contagious. The DCC leadership team has created a welcoming and engaging culture that fosters success for students. As a State Board member, I am grateful for the opportunity to directly experience the culture, develop relationships and gain more insight into the programs that are meeting the needs of the community,” Thompson continued. “It is clear that DCC is the heart and soul of Danville. I look forward to building a stronger connection with DCC and I am definitely a fan!”

Thompson’s visit to Danville Community College was a resounding success, highlighting the college’s commitment to excellence in education and fostering strong community partnerships. Through the CDL Simulator unveiling, advisory board meeting, campus tour, and engaging discussions with college leaders, Thompson gained valuable insights into DCC’s achievements and ongoing efforts to prepare students for successful careers. As a result of her visit, DCC and the VCCS system continue to build bridges that will empower students and strengthen the region’s workforce, ultimately contributing to the overall prosperity of the community. •

Danville Community College

AHEARTWARMING CONNECTION:

How a simple shoebox gift led to a lifelong friendship

In the age of technology and fast-paced communication, a heartwarming story of friendship that transcends borders and time has emerged from the efforts of Calvary Baptist Church’s participation in Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes.

In 2009, Ann Shackelford, a resident of Danville, packed a shoebox filled with toys and goodies as part of the annual holiday outreach. She decided to go the extra mile by including a personal letter of encouragement to the recipient. Little did she know that this simple act would lead to a life-changing connection with a young man named Buikpo Attiogbey, who lived thousands of miles away in an orphanage in Lomé,

Togo, Africa.

The original recipient of Shackelford’s shoebox kept only what he wanted and discarded the rest, unaware of the treasure hidden within. The discarded letter found its way into the hands of Attiogbey, then 19 years old, who, despite not knowing English at the time, recognized the letter’s significance. He kept it, feeling an inexplicable connection to the words written by a stranger across the ocean.

Fast forward to 2015, and Attiogbey had taught himself to speak and write English, allowing him to respond to Shackelford’s letter. A beautiful pen-pal relationship blossomed between them, spanning the continents and

Story by Bobby Allen Roach | Photos submitted

bringing two seemingly different lives together.

The letters were filled with inspiring words, faith, and prayers, strengthening the bond between Shackelford and Attiogbey. They finally met in person in 2019 when Ann, accompanied by her granddaughter Crystal Shackelford, traveled to Togo to meet the young man who had held onto her letter through the years. The meeting was a moving experience, and through Ann’s continuous words of encouragement and the support of her family, Attiogbey found faith in Christ.

Attiogbey’s life took a transformative turn and he moved to Switzerland, where he now lives with his wife and works in information technology. Despite the distance, the friendship between Shackelford and Attiogbey remains strong, and they continue to communicate regularly.

Recently, Attiogbey visited New York City with Ann’s grandchildren, and they planned to explore Washington, D.C.,

together before heading back home at the end of July. The deep connection between them is evident, as they eagerly share stories about their journey and their enduring friendship.

“I’ve always included a Christmas card with every box with a little info on myself,” Shackelford explained. “But in 2009, I had run out of Christmas cards and quickly found paper to write my message of encouragement of God’s love for this young man.”

Attiogbey also expressed his gratitude for the connection they share.

“I thank Jesus to have helped us start and continue this friendship,” he said.

In an age where technology dominates communication, Shackelford and Attiogbey’s story is a reminder of the power of human connection and the impact a simple act of kindness can have on someone’s life. As they continue to inspire each other and others around them, their friendship stands as a testament to the beautiful ways in which lives can intertwine across borders and cultures.

For more updates on their journey and friendship, visit Calvary Baptist Church’s website, www.cbcdanville.org, and explore the “Mission” section. •

Buikpo Attiogbey, left, and Ann Shackelford, right, express joy after meeting in person 10 years after Shackelford originally sent a letter through Samaritan’s Purse.

Ann Shackelford’s letter Attiogbey has saved since he received it in 2009.

DANVILLE RELEASES

Regional Tourism Master Plan

Submitted Story

The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism has released its first-ever regional Tourism Master Plan, a 118-page document that provides a strategic roadmap to help city leaders plan for and support a thriving regional tourism industry.

Paid for through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, the Tourism Master Plan was authored by the City’s Tourism Marketing Agency, Eddy Alexander, and based on extensive quantitative research, industry best practices, and extensive community input gathered through multiple visioning exercises. In addition to providing quantitative data and analysis, the plan also includes the input, ideas, and contributions of more than 2,000 local citizens and business owners who participated in multiple surveys, interviews, and focus groups across the region over the last twelve months.

The Tourism Master Plan illustrates the transformational power of tourism to contribute to a high quality of life in Southside Virginia and lays out a long-term vision that will help stakeholders align resources and work together effectively to reach the region’s full potential.

Tourism is a significant industry across the Commonwealth of Virginia and a major funder of supplemental public service spending nationwide. With this new Tourism Master Plan, city officials are looking to align resources in support of raising the local quality of life for locals and visitors alike.

“We live in a beautiful area with a lot to offer our residents and visitors and now we have a plan for how to most effectively tell our story,” Danville City Manager Ken Larking said. “This master plan will serve as a guide for marketing the tourism assets in our region to visitors and residents. It will also help us to identify and help encourage new tourism assets that will drive additional visitation and increase quality of life. ”

“Tourism is often said to be the front door of economic development, raising the quality of life and helping to support both talent and business attraction in an area, “Danville Economic Development Director Corrie Bobe said. “Everyone at city hall is excited about the increased business and job opportunities that this industry is already starting to provide. This new plan will help our team support the diversification of our economy, nourish our one-of-akind small businesses, support our local schools, and help fund many other important public services, beautification projects, and smart regional development efforts.”

The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism is responsible for leading the city of Danville’s tourism efforts by branding and promoting the city and Pittsylvania County to differentiate it from other regional competitors through advertising, promotions, trade events, and visitor experience initiatives to stimulate economic growth for the region. •

The following pages are a look into the Regional Tourism Master Plan for Danville and Pittsylvania County. This plan includes strategy to give local businesses more exposure through new regional maps, visit SoSi guides, and community engagement. View the full tourism master plan online at www.discoverdanville.com/visit-sosi.

‘PRETTY LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE:’

Local lake & campground promises rest and relaxation for visitors

Paradise Lake & Campground was founded around 14 years ago by Tommy Jefferson and Nelson Bernard. The campground has had several other owners during previous years and went by several different names. The campground serves customers with a smile, friendly staff, and familiar experiences reminiscent of time spent with family members.

“We love peace, quiet, and relaxation for our campers,” stated Ginger, one of the camp’s many friendly staff members. “We’ve improved everything: The sites, we try to keep them level, the roads, so we put a lot of work and effort into making it look nice.”

The campground offers nightly stays, pull-throughs, backins, and permanent residency. They also offer a walking trail

that many customers enjoy taking their dogs on to embrace nature. They maintain a clean and comfortable environment for customers. Everyone is welcome and treated like family at Paradise Lake & Campground.

They’re currently working on getting the roads maintained to better the experience of drivers and campers alike.

“I really think it’s a nice place to stay. We try to keep it family-oriented, quiet, and restful. Make it happy for everyone to make a memory,” Ginger said.

Paradise Lake & Campground is located at 593 Keeling Drive in Keeling. They are open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Customers may reach them at (434) 836-2620 or by email at paradiselakecg@gmail.com. •

Story & Photos by Ceilidh Hicks

Pictured above, from left, are two of the campground’s friendly staff members, Joey and Ginger.

The picturesque lakeside campground in Keeling is the perfect local getaway.

The campground features an outdoor swimming pool and a game room for the whole family to enjoy.

This dock is the ideal place to get in some relaxing fishing without having to travel too far outside of the city.

The crystalline waters of Paradise Lake are adorned by lily pads suitable for any stylish frog.

Featured Books

Looking Back to Look Ahead,Piedmont Culture, The Rope of Life, Treasured Memories

Stories by Bobby Allen Roach & Adam Powell

‘LOOKING BACK TO LOOK AHEAD:’

Tunstall alumna to publish book about healing through self-grace

As a registered nurse, Chatham resident Courtney Tucker knows more than a thing or two about healing the body, but in 2021, she started a journey that would allow her to heal her soul.

“When I decided to enter counseling in August of 2021, I was a different person. I was broken and scarred by a variety of circumstances and situations that I had not properly dealt with in my life,” she explained. “Anxiety and depression were wreaking havoc over every aspect of my life and I had little desire to engage in activities that once brought me joy.”

She’s not alone. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that mental health crises account for 60 million visits to primary care and six million emergency room visits every year.

“I was no longer the person I thought I was. I didn’t know who I was,” Tucker recalled. “I sank inward, isolated myself, and lost sight of much positivity.”

In that spiral of rumination, Tucker said, she was granted strength.

“God had given me the strength to seek out a counselor and I was finally ready to begin the healing journey,” Tucker said. “I had no idea how much things I had been through had affected me and the help I needed.”

She explained that her counselor asked her to face the difficult experiences of her past by writing about them.

“As I began my journey toward healing, my counselor recommended I write about some of the painful moments I had been through in my journal,” Tucker said. “It was healing for me to write words and then spend time talking through them with her. Looking back was hard. I

didn’t realize then that I had been holding onto so much. I had just kept stuffing emotions from various circumstances and situations until finally I could not handle anything more.”

But she did look back, and what she found was the strength to be kind to herself.

“If you’ve been around my story for any time, you’ve heard me say this many times: Give yourself grace,” Tucker said. “Those words saved my life. My counselor mentioned them early in our journey together. They were the words God wanted me to hear. Over time, I was able to realize that Jesus doesn’t waste anything: No pain, no tear, no ache, and no loss. Amidst all of the pain I had experienced, I had to give myself grace. Grace for the journey

Courtney Tucker’s new book, “Looking Back to Look Ahead,” explores her journey of healing the emotional scars of life.

ahead of me because there was still so much to see.”

While unpacking the baggage of the past is something many people may impulsively avoid, Tucker said that facing all of it is what ultimately allowed her to heal.

“It’s been a lot of looking back with this grace for myself so that I can look ahead with hope for the future.”

Tucker is sharing her transformative experience by publishing her first book, entitled “Looking Back to Look Ahead,” on August 1.

“I’ve been learning so much through this process, and that was the foundation for this book,” she explained. “It is my story. Though it is my story, my prayer is that you, the reader, will be able to identify people, circumstances, or situations that have shaped you and molded you into the person you are. May it remind you that Jesus isn’t yet finished with you.”

Tucker said that she worked closely with author and mentor Hannah Brencher from Atlanta, Georgia.

“I didn’t decide to write on my own. I have always enjoyed journaling, but never saw myself as one who would want to write a book. English was a subject in school in which I never had the highest grades. Commas, verbs, and comprehension were a lot to

take in,” Tucker said. “[Hannah] helped coach me throughout my entire process of mapping out my book, outlining, showing up to write, continuing to show up even when edits were taxing, and the joys of creatively sharing what I have accomplished. I could not have done it without her expertise.”

Tucker said she felt called to share her story.

“I wrote this book because I learned so much and felt God tug at me and nudge me to share it,” Tucker explained. “I don’t share it lightly, and I don’t share it without much prayer. We all have pivotal pieces of our journeys that have molded us and shaped us. May we not be afraid to share where we have been so that we can get where we are going.”

Tucker said that she hopes readers of her book are reminded that “nothing is wasted in their story.”

“I hope that individuals can sense that, even through the difficult moments of life, God is ordaining His magnificent plan, giving hope and healing along the way,” she explained. “I pray that readers will be reminded that they are loved and cherished no matter what their life has held up to this point.”

Tucker graduated from Tunstall High School in 2007. She earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology from Bluefield College, now Bluefield University, in 2010. After working at children’s hospitals as a certified child life specialist in Florida and Arkansas, she came back to Danville to pursue her degree in nursing. She graduated from Danville Community College and obtained her RN licensure in 2015 and now works as an oncology nurse.

She said that she looks at her life experience so far with gratitude and emphasized the immeasurable value of getting help when it is needed.

“I am very thankful I sought out a counselor and I will never take for granted this relationship that is still important in my life today,” Tucker added.

“Looking Back to Look Ahead” will be available online at Amazon. com and locally at the Dog-Eared Page in Danville on August 1.

To learn more about Tucker and to follow her ongoing journey, visit her blog at www.thejourneyjustbegins.com.

“PIEDMONT CULTURE” New Local History Book Published

A new book is available by county historian Kyle Griffith that features a collection of sites and residents in Pittsylvania’s history. Kyle recently graduated from the University of Mary Washington with a bachelor’s degree in historic preservation. He hopes this book can help Virginia families share and visualize the importance of the Piedmont region’s rural culture.

“Piedmont Culture” is an academic commentary based on historically written correspondence, historic photographs, surviving architecture, and surviving traditions.

The following text is quoted from the book’s back cover: “Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Piedmont region of Virginia in this

Tunstall High School Class of 2007 graduate Courtney Tucker is publishing her first book on August 1.

captivating narrative. From the colonial period to the present day, explore the lives of tobacco farming families who worked the land, built communities, and left a legacy of descendants. Through vivid descriptions and documentation of historic rural communities and individuals, readers will gain a new appreciation for the resilience, resourcefulness, and ingenuity of the past. Learn what common people owned and wore, the crops they grew, and the rituals and traditions that shaped their lives. From the architecture of their homes to the artistry of their headstones, every detail reveals a story of hard work, family ties, and cultural pride. For curious readers of all ages, history buffs, or historic preservationists alike, this book will transport the reader to another time and place, and inspire others to document their own unique perspectives.”

On June 17, a book debut was held at Shadetree Rare Books in Chatham. Guests arrived to purchase copies and meet with Kyle to discuss county history. Signed copies of the book are available for $30 by emailing the author at kyleg434@gmail.com. The book may also be found on Amazon where there should be two formats of the book available, a standard quality version for $30 and a higher quality version for $35. Further information about availability in stores will be posted on his social media. Kyle’s other books include “Write Soon” published in 2019 and “When Piggs Flew” published in 2020.

“THE ROPE OF LIFE - A MEMOIR”

Danville-area native pens gripping memoir of father’s suicide

“The Rope of Life - A Memoir,” a book written by Danville-area native Mirinda Kosoff, is a gripping tale of family tragedy and attempting to understand the loss of a beloved parent. The book, which was a project that took more than twenty years for Kossoff to complete, centers around the racism and antisemitism that she grew up with in the Jim Crow South, and also her attempt to understand her father’s 1980 suicide.

In a recent interview with the Star-Tribune, Kosoff discussed the project, what motivated her to write it, and the feelings the book conjured up from her tragic past.

“It’s more of a father’s suicide, and my attempt to understand it, and understand why he was so closed off emotionally,” Kosoff explained.

Kosoff’s father, who was born into a Jewish family in New York State, fought in World War II before making his way to Danville, Virginia, and converting to Christianity. He became a prominent local dentist in the community and attempted to assimilate into the “good ol’ boy” culture of the region at the time.

“He was a beloved dentist in town. And he cracked jokes. His patients loved them. And he was very accomplished,” his daughter explained. “I mean, by the time he fell into this depressed mental state, he had achieved everything in life he had ever wanted to achieve. It’s kind of like Anthony Bourdain - why did he commit suicide? He was at the top of his game.”

Although her father had found success as a local businessman and was finding contentment in the community, there were several underlying factors that ultimately led to the depression that prematurely ended his life, including chronic pain.

“With my father, it was back pain,” Kosoff recalled. “That was the most obvious reason - he couldn’t stand living with the pain. But a lot of people live with that. A lot of us would be dead if pain were the main reason, you know. And so in my thinking about him, I started to understand more about what the psychological reasons might have been. So you know, the book is an attempt by me to understand him and understand the culture that I grew up in. And what motivated (him to do what he did).”

Kosoff’s tale is a very real reminder of the emotional and actual toll that suicide takes on the survivors. Part of the reason why it took her two decades to put the book together was the potential effect that telling such vivid stories of family tragedy would have on her fellow surviving family members.

“What motivated me (to write the book) was just trying to figure out why he did what he did,” she explained. “He died in 1980. You would think, after all those years, I would have let it go. But it just stayed with me. And I started writing it, and my family wasn’t happy about it. So I stopped. And then 20 years on, it became so insistent, the voice in my head, (saying) you have got to write this book.”

Kyle Griffith’s new book, “Piedmont Culture,” features a collection of sites and residents showcasing the impact of Piedmont region’s rural culture.

“I mean, it sounds overly dramatic. But my inner voice was saying, you have to write this book or die. I mean, it was just so insistent that I had to listen to that voice. And so I took what I had started writing 20 years earlier, and then went on and completed the book over the course of two years.

“The Rope of Life is a deep account of an issue we all struggle with: Identity. Born to a Baptist mother and a man who converted from Judaism, Kossoff watched her father take on roles that served him and roles that he fought against,” said Nancy Peacock, author of The Life and Times of Persimmon Wilson. “As he acted out in anger at times, she began to wonder if he had left an essential part of himself behind somewhere. Kossoff writes deftly about how one man’s severed identity affected another generation. Moving and beautiful, The Rope of Life reaches a poignant conclusion. You won’t regret reading this one.”

“Mirinda Kossoff took one flight in her father’s Cessna Skyhawk as he piloted and navigated by landmarks that revealed themselves through openings in the trees below,” reads an Amazon description of the book. “A short three years later, he was dead at age fifty-six. The memory of that ride fueled Kossoff’s desire to understand who her father was and the forces that shaped him. And by extension, how he shaped her life. Her need to know and to understand became a life-long pursuit. The Rope of Life: A Memoir is a daughter’s story told with love and compassion. Readers will come away wiser about family bonds and the ways in which they can hurt or heal.”

One of the messages Kosoff attempts to convey to survivors of suicide is the simple message of personal forgiveness. That their loved one’s death wasn’t their fault. That a person absolutely determined to kill themself will find a way, and it wasn’t because of anything a loved one did or said to them.

“A lot of people feel guilty. That, oh, maybe I could have done more,” she said. “I hope that people reading my book will realize that sometimes there is absolutely nothing you can do. My father was actually on suicide watch in a psychiatric ward at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville. So we thought he’s protected, you know because we knew he had threatened it (committing suicide). We knew it was a possibility. And we felt like he was completely safe there. But no. If someone is determined to do it - my dad was a very inventive guy. If there was something he wanted to do, he would do it no matter what. He had a strong drive. And if anybody could figure out how to do that (harm themself) under suicide watch, it would be him.”

The real tragedy of Mirinda Kosoff’s father and the end of his life was that he had done everything in his power to convert to Southern life - marrying a Southern Baptist, converting to Christianity, assimilating to the ways of Southside Virginia culture at the times - but it still didn’t bring him the necessary contentment and fulfillment to preserve his existence.

“He was a deacon in the church,” his daughter explained. “Nevertheless, people referred to him as ‘That Yankee,’ especially when he ran for (Danville) City Council. And then he ran for County Commissioner. He bought some property in Pittsylvania County and built a house there. And he lost both elections. Here was a man who, by all outward appearances, was a huge success. You know, he built his dream home on 22 acres in Pittsylvania County, put in a swimming pool and a landing strip in the back. He renewed his pilot’s license, bought a Cessna, and had everything he wanted.”

“And so what I learned was that there may have been for him a lot of internal struggle about giving up his (Jewish) heritage, and taking on this (Southern) identity. He wanted to pass as a Southern good old boy. And he tried in every way, you know. He chewed tobacco. He went hunting. He hung out at Curtis’s Country Store. He would chew tobacco and talk about hunting and fishing stories. The guys would call him ‘Doc.’ He didn’t socialize with members of

Danville native Mirinda Kosoff published a book about the death of her father by suicide in 1980. Titled “Rope of Life - A Memoir,” the book goes into detail about her childhood in Southside Virginia, the tragic circumstances of her father’s death, and her attempts to understand it.

the business and professional class.

“I’m just surmising here, but I think he didn’t feel welcomed,” she continued. “And at the time, Jews weren’t allowed in the country club. And there were some new developments that prohibited blacks and Jews from moving in. So I’m sure my dad was well aware of that, even though he never talked about it. I think he internalized. I think there was some self-hatred that he internalized by relocating to the South and trying to be something. Some people can be successful at that. completely changing their lives. Others not so much, you know. By outward appearance, maybe, but psychologically, I think he suffered a lot. But he was really closed off. And nobody could get near his emotions. You know, most men of that era, they didn’t talk about feelings. My dad wouldn’t know a feeling from a hole in the ground.”

Although the tragedy of her father’s death remains a vivid and difficult subject for Mirinda Kosoff, being able to tell her father’s story has provided some level of comfort. Helping other people better understand depression, while also helping better understand her own life and circumstances, are two of the silver linings to come from this somber sage.

“In the end, he was a tormented man,” Kosoff said of her father. “And his personality changed. There was some mental illness that ran in the family. So I think genetically - and I’ve suffered depression my whole life - I think genetically it was something in the family, and dad was subjected to that. But he kept it at bay by being busy all the time. He never stopped.”

“He was head of the Masonic Lodge, the master of the Masonic Lodge. He was involved in all these civic organizations. He was always out doing stuff. And I think that until he heard his back and had to be out of work for a couple of weeks, you know, that his forward momentum was stopped. And I think that’s when the depression started to reveal itself. And he just seemed, he tried everything. He tried. Tried to go to psychiatrists. Then they only had the tri-cyclic antidepressants. They didn’t have what they have now. And at one point, he even wanted to have a prefrontal lobotomy, because he’d read that that helped with depression. And we all said absolutely not. He went to acupuncture. I mean, he tried everything. He went to great lengths to try to pray himself out of it, and nothing worked.

“(My father was) a very complicated man,” she added. “So bright, so talented, and in a way, a Renaissance man who I admired a lot. And I’m a lot like him, in terms of going after things, doing things, and starting new projects and new endeavors. I’m much more like him than my mother. So I think that’s another reason why writing this book was a pressing need for me. Because in some ways, it’s about understanding myself as being a part of him.”

To learn more about Rope of Life, and to purchase a copy, visit https://www.amazon.com/Rope-Life-Memoir-Mirinda-Kossoff/ dp/1733681671.

“TREASURED MEMORIES” Sisters Share Stories in New Book

Ella and Vivian Robertson grew up in rural Pittsylvania County Virginia, with two younger sisters and one brother. Their parents were hard workers who did what they needed to do in or to take care of their family. Vivian was the most studious child and Ella was more of a tomboy who enjoyed nature. At an early age, Ella began taking pictures, while Vivian enjoyed reading and writing. Both of the sisters still live in Pittsylvania County very close to one another and their two sisters. They enjoy making people happy and serving others in different capacities. At an early age, they were taught by their mother how to cook, clean, sew, and become self-sufficient. They have walked in their late mother’s shoes and become true missionaries in their community. Ella has one son who lives in Florida. Vivian is the proud mother of one son, a daughter-in-law, and three beautiful grandchildren who live in Norfolk. “Treasured Memories: A Collection of Stories and Pictures from the Past” is available for purchase online at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Apple Books. •

Ellen and Vivian Robertson pictured with their book. “Treasured Memories.”

Business Spotlight Celebrates 5 years in business

Story & Photos by Ceilidh Hicks

Callands Coffee celebrates five years in business this week with hundreds of excited and grateful customers.

The coffee shop was founded five years ago, on June 26, 2018, by Dean Rogers and Jennifer Reynolds. Dean and Jennifer started out at the Competition Alley Farmers Market in Chatham. Together, they started their business roasting and serving specialty-grade coffee, imported from several exotic countries. They offer a variety of specialty coffee beans from Costa Rica and Ethiopia. With no competition in the Chatham area, they have been able to grow their business with great success. They also sell merchandise such as stylish t-shirts, hats, and mugs.

Recently, they have started selling specialty lemonade for the hot summer season. They serve regular old-style lemonade, strawberry lemonade, sweet tea, and Arnold Palmer, which is a mixture of tea and lemonade. For those with a sweet tooth, they offer a variety of delicious doughnuts encased inside a glass display visible when customers first enter the shop.

On July 4, Callands Coffee announced that customers are now able to subscribe to their favorite coffees through their website. The current options include a Southside Blend, Mocha Java, Espresso Blend, Dominican Dark, Brazil Peaberry, Costa Rica San Diego Honey, Brazil Salmo Plus, and Cordillera De Fuego.

Customers enjoy the well-rounded flavors and wonderful, quick service that the shop provides every day. Callands Coffee is unique through the coffee types it offers. Customers can pick out the blend they like and watch the beans be ground right in front of them.

Customers old and new are invited to celebrate with Callands Coffee by stopping by for a delectable drink in honor of their five years in business. Owners said they appreciate all of their customers and continue striving to provide everyone with a great experience every time.

They are located at 11 South Main Street in Chatham. They are open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. •

The front doors of Callands Coffee are always open and welcoming to new and returning customers.

One of the shop’s owners, Dean Rogers, stands inside the store in front of some of the coffee blends available to customers.

Happily serving the animals and citizens of Pittsylvania County and Danville since 1975 through:

Spay/neuter services

Sheltering services for all animals

Adoption programs

Transfer partnerships

Rescue efforts

Neglect and cruelty investigations

Humane education programs

Sheltering for animal victims of domestic violence

Like us on Facebook to receive regular updates! We hope you consider adopting from us, donating to us, or volunteering for us.

P.O. Box 3352, Danville, VA 24543

(434) 799-0843 dahsinc.com

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Danville Art Trail

111 Main Street, Danville

Danville Concert Association

P.O. Box 11284, Danville 434-770-8400

danvilleconcert.org

danvilleconcert@gmail.com

Danville Little Theatre

P.O. Box 3523, Danville stagemanager@danvillelittletheatre.org

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History

975 Main St., Danville 434-793-5644

www.danvillemuseum.org

Danville Symphony Orchestra

P.O. Box 11491, Danville 434-797-2666 macnet@wildblue.net

Downtown Danville Murals 434-791-0210

riverdistrictassociation@gmail.com

Main Street Art Collective

326 Main St., Unit 100, Danville 434-602-2017

www.mainstreetartcollective.com

The North Theatre

629 North Main St., Danville 434-793-SHOW (7469) wayne@waynealanmagic.com

River District Artisans 411 Main St., Danville 434-228-4125

sgusler@thearcofsouthside.org

River District Golf & Social

680 Lynn Street Suite C, Danville 434-228-4155

www.riverdistrictgolf.com

HISTORY

18th century Callands Clerk’s Office

Sago Rd., Callands

American Armored Foundation Tank Museum  3401 U.S. Highway 29, Danville 434-836-5323

tankmuseum@gamewood.net

aaftankmuseum.com

Birthplace of Lady Astor

117 Broad St., Danville 434-793-6472

langhornehouse.org

Cedar Forest Grist Mill

7929 Straightstone Rd., Long Island 434-432-2172

pco1767@gmail.com

Chatham Hall

800 Chatham Hall Cir., Chatham 434-432-2941

admission@chathamhall.org

Danville Welcome Center

434-793-4636

Crossing at the Dan 434-793-4636

Danville Historical Society

P.O. Box 6, Danville danvillehistorical@gmail.com www.danvillehistory.org

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History

975 Main St., Danville 434-793-5644

info@danvillemuseum.org

Danville Science Center

677 Craghead St., Danville 434-791-5160

dscgs@smv.org

Downtown Danville Murals 434-791-0210

riverdistrictassociation@gmail.com

Green Hill Cemetery 434-793-5644

info@danvillemuseum.org

Grove Street Cemetery

940 Grove St., Danville 434-793-5644

info@danvillemuseum.org

Hargrave Military Academy Historic Marker 200 Military Dr., Chatham 434-432-2481

admissions@hargrave.edu

Langhorne House

117 Broad St., Danville 434-793-6472

langhornehouse.org

Chair of the Board Wyona Witcher mountcrosslodge@gmail.com

Millionaires Row

434-770-1974

joycewilburn@gmail.com

Mount Airy Roller Mill

4425 Johnson Mill Rd., Gretna 434-432-2172

pco1767@gmail.com

The National Cemetery

721 Lee St., Danville 704-636-2661

info@danvillemuseum.org

The National Tobacco-Textile Museum

19783 U.S. Hwy. 29 S, Chatham 434-432-8026

Pittsylvania Court House Historic Marker

11 Bank St., Chatham 434-432-2041

pco1767@gmail.com

Pittsylvania County Historical Society 434-770-3258

pco1767@gmail.com

Pittsylvania County History Research Center & Library

340 Whitehead St., Chatham

434-432-8931

info@pcplib.org

The Secrets Inside - Guided Walking Tour

434-770-1974

joycewilburn@gmail.com

Simpson Funeral Museum

16 South Main St., Danville

Tales of Tobacco, Textiles & TrainsGuided Walking Tour

434-770-1974

joycewilburn@gmail.com

There’s A Story Here - Guided Walking Tour

434-770-1974

joycewilburn@gmail.com

Town of Chatham Walking Tour

16A Court Pl., Chatham

Veterans Memorial - Danville

302 River Park Dr., Danville

Yates Tavern

US-29 BUS, Gretna

INDOOR RECREATION

Ballou Park Senior Center

760 West Main St., Danville 434-799-5216

bynumem@danvilleva.gov

Danville Stadium Cinemas 12

3601 Riverside Dr., Danville 434-792-9885

Danville Science Center & Virtual Dome

677 Craghead St., Danville 434-791-5160

dscgs@smv.org

Main Street Art Collective

326 Main St., Unit 100, Danville 434-602-2017 mainstreetartcollective.com

The North Theatre

629 North Main St., Danville 434-793-SHOW (7469) wayne@waynealanmagic.com

Skatetown of Danville

1049 Piney Forest Rd., Danville 434-835-0011

skatetown@verizon.net

Danville Family YMCA

215 Riverside Dr., Danville 434-792-0621

Impotters

406 Lynn St., Danville 434-448-4677 impottersclayworx@gmail.com

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Abreu-Grogan Park

2020 Memorial Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Anglers Park

350 Northside Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Anglers Ridge and Dan Daniel

Mountain Bike System

350 Northside Dr., Danville 302 River Park Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Ballou Park

760 West Main St., Danville 434-799-5215

OUTDOOR RECREATION (CONTINUED)

Birch Creek Motor Sports

12725 Kentuck Rd., Sutherlin

434-836-7629

carlsmail1@comcast.net

Brosville Walking Track

195 Bulldog Ln., Danville 434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

Cedar’s Country Club

1029 Anderson Mill Rd., Chatham 434-656-8036

Coates Bark Park

1727 Westover Dr., Danville 434-799-5150

Camilla Williams Park

700 Memorial Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Cavalier Park

11650 US Hwy 29 North, Chatham 434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

Dan Daniel Park

302 River Park Dr., Danville

434-799-5215

Danville Boat Rental

2020 Memorial Dr., Danville

434-799-5150

Danville Parks & Recreation

125 N Floyd St., Danville

434-799-5200

sgrinwo@danvilleva.gov

Danville Pittsylvania County Fairgrounds

2400 Cavalier Rd., Ringgold

434-822-6850

info@dpcfairgrounds.com

Doyle Thomas Park

827 Green St., Danville 434-799-5215

Elba Park

434-656-6572

townhall@townofgretna.org

Elkhorn Lake & Camp Grounds

2500 Elkhorn Rd., Java

434-432-9203

kennytinaelkhorn@yahoo.com

Franklin Junction Historic Railroad Park

Across from 105 Main St., Gretna 434-656-6572

townhall@townofgretna.org

Gretna Town Trail

Whitehorn Trail

Trailhead at the Centra Medical Building in Gretna Grove Park

100 Southland Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

H.B. Moorefield Park

Riverside Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Hawk Park

201 Coffey St., Gretna 434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

JTI Fountain

215 Main St., Danville

M.C. Martin Park

Memorial Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Martinsville Speedway

340 Speedway Rd., Ridgeway 276-956-7225

Paradise Lake & Campground 434-836-2620 | 1-866-836-2126

campinparadise.com

paradiselakecg@gmail.com

Phillip Wyatt Skate Park

302 River Park Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Pittsylvania County Parks & Recreation

18 Depot St., St. 508, Chatham 434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

Pumpkin Creek Park

315 Taylor Dr., Danville 434-799-5215

Richmond and Danville Rail Trail/ Ringgold Rail Trail

155 Ringgold Depot Rd., Ringgold 434-432-7736

Riverwalk Trail

111 Main St., Danville 434-799-5215

Smith Mountain Dock & Lodge

188 Locust Ln., Penhook 540-565-0222

Smith Mountain Farm & Stables

7661 Grassland Dr., Sandy Level 434-927-5199

steve@smithmountainstables.com

Smith Mountain Lake & Dam Visitor’s Center

2072 Ford Rd., Sandy Level

540-985-2587

South Boston Speedway

1188 James D. Hagood Hwy, South Boston 434-572-4947

info@southbostonspeedway.com

Southern Hills Golf Course

188 Stokesland Ave., Danville 434-793-2582

golfsouthernhills@gmail.com

Tiny Town Golf

643 Arnett Blvd., Danville 434-799-0142

Titan Park

1160 Tunstall High Rd., Dry Fork 434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

Virginia International Raceway

1245 Pine Tree Rd., Alton 434-822-7700

info@VIRnow.com

White Oak Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Chatham, VA 24531

804-367-1000

Wildcat Park

5875 Kentuck Rd., Ringgold

434-432-7736

recreation@pittgov.org

Zipline

302 River Park Dr., Danville

PITTSYLVANIA

WWW.PCS.K12.VA.US

Alternative School

434-432-8185

Brosville Elementary School

434-685-7787

Chatham Elementary School

434-432-5441

Chatham Middle School

434-432-2169

Chatham High School

434-432-8305

Dan River Middle School

434-822-6027

Dan River High School

434-822-7081

Gretna Elementary School

434-630-1808

Gretna Middle School

434-656-2217

Gretna High School

434-656-2246

John L. Hurt Elementary School

434-324-7231

Kentuck Elementary School

434-822-5944

Mt. Airy Elementary School

434-630-1816

Pittsylvania Career & Technical Cntr

434-432-9416

Southside Elementary School

434-836-0006

Stony Mill Elementary School

434-685-7545

Tunstall Middle School

434-724-7086

Tunstall High School

434-724-7111

Twin Springs Elementary School

434-724-2666

Union Hall Elementary School

434-724-7010

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

Pittsylvania County Schools

P.O. Box 232, Chatham

*School Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the School Board office.

434-432-2761

888-440-6520

pcs.k12.va.us

Superintendent: Dr. Mark R. Jones

P.O. Box 232, Chatham

434-432-2761

Banister District: Willie Fitzgerald, Interim

473 Mill Creek Rd., Chatham

434-432-9418

Callands-Gretna District: Calvin D. Doss

P.O. Box 100, Gretna 434-656-3206

cdoss@pcs.k12.va.us

Chatham-Blairs District: Sam Burton

492 Tobacco Road, Dry Fork

434-724-4245

sburton@pcs.k12.va.us

COUNTY

Dan River District: Kelly H. Merricks

2795 Loop Rd., Keeling

434-793-0072

Staunton River District: Don C. Moon

3605 Level Run Rd., Hurt

434-324-4115

dmoon@pcs.k12.va.us

Tunstall District: George Henderson

568 F. C. Beverly Rd., Dry Fork

434-770-8933

ghenderson@pcs.k12.va.us

Westover District: Kevin Mills

2514 Franklin trnpk, Danville

434-836-6742

kmills@pcs.k12.va.us

DANVILLE WWW.DANVILLEPUBLICSCHOOLS.ORG

Northside Preschool

434-773-8301

Forest Hills Elementary School

434-799-6430

G.L.H. Johnson Elementary School

434-799-6433

Park Avenue Elementary School

434-799-6452

Schoolfield Elementary School

434-799-6455

Woodberry Hills Elementary School

434-799-6466

Woodrow Wilson Intermediate School

434-773-8204

E.A. Gibson Elementary School

434-799-6426

O.T. Bonner Middle School

434-799-6446

Westwood Middle School

434-797-8860

Galileo High School

434-773-8186

George Washington High School

434-799-6410

Danville Alternative Program at J.M. Langston Campus

434-799-5249

Adult & Continuing Education Center

434-799-6471

W.W. Moore Jr. Education Program

434-773-8170

DANVILLE SCHOOL BOARD

*School Board meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:00 PM in the Danville Room of the School Board Office, 341 Main Street, Danville, VA

Superintendent: Dr. Angela Hairston ahairston@mail.dps.k12.va.us

School Board: Keisha Averett kaverett@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Dr. Philip Campbell pcampbell@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Tyrell Payne tpayne1@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Charles McWilliams cmcwilliams@mail.dps.k12.va.us

TaKessa (Keisha) Walker twalker@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Ty’Quan Graves tgraves@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Dr. Keith Silverman ksilverman@mail.dps.k12.va.us

Crystal Cobbs ccobbs@@mail.dps.k12.va.us

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

BOARD OF SUPERVISERS

*Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Chatham Community Center art room (may change soon).

Banister District: Robert M. Tucker Jr. 434-306-2099

robert.tucker@pittgov.org

Chatham-Blairs District: Robert “Bob” Warren 434-770-7607

robert.warren@pittgov.org

Callands-Gretna District: Darrell Dalton 921 Terry Rd., Gretna 434-334-6377

darrell.dalton@pittgov.org

Dan River District: Nancy Eanes 8785 Kentuck Road, Ringgold 434-343-9599

nancy.eanes@pittgov.org

Staunton River District: Tim W. Dudley 434-770-3692

Tim.Dudley@pittgov.org

Tunstall District: William “Vic” Ingram

1301 Deercrest Ln., Danville 434-770-3921

Vic.Ingram@pittgov.org

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD (CONTINUED)

Westover District: Ronald Scearce 434-685-1843

ronald.scearce@pittgov.org

County Administrator: Stuart Turille

County Attorney: J. Vaden Hunt, Esq. 434-432-7720

vaden.hunt@pittgov.org

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

Circuit Court Clerk: Hon. Mark W. Scarce

P.O. Drawer 31, Chatham 434-432-7887

Commissioner of Revenue: Robin Coles-Gourd

P.O. Box 272, Chatham 434-432-7940

Sheriff: Michael W. Taylor

P.O. Box 407, Chatham 434-432-7800

Treasurer: Vincent Shorter

P.O. Box 230, Chatham 434-432-7960

Commonwealth’s Attorney: Robert “Bryan” Haskins

P.O. Box 1068, Chatham 434-432-7900

CHATHAM TOWN COUNCIL

P.O.

Mayor: Alisa Davis

P.O. Box 432, Chatham 434-203-8062

alisabdavis@gmail.com

Town Council Members:

Janet B. Bishop

610 South Main St., Chatham 434-432-2714

jbishop@chatham-va.gov

William B. Black

338 North Main St., Chatham 434-432-7721

wblack@chatham-va.gov

Robert B. Thompson

P.O. Box 231, Chatham, VA 434-432-8763 - Home 434-432-6211 – Work

rthompson@chatham-va.gov

Town Council Members (continued):

Andrew D. Wall

P.O. Box 1127, Chatham 434-432-6122

awall@chatham-va.gov

Irvin W. Perry 348 S. Main St., Chatham 941-740-0268

Interim Treasurer/Clerk: Kelly Hawker

Town Attorney: Adams & Fisk PLC 434-432-2531

Assistant Town Manager: Nick Morris

CITY OF DANVILLE

WWW.DANVILLE-VA.GOV

Circuit Court Clerk: Gerald A. Gibson

401 Patton St., Danville 434-799-5168

Commissioner of Revenue: James M. Gillie

311 Memorial Dr., Danville 434-799-5145

Sheriff: Michael Mondul

401 Patton St., Danville 434-799-5135

Treasurer: Sheila Williamson-Branch

311 Memorial Dr., Danville 434-799-5140

Commonwealth’s Attorney: Michael Newman

341 Main St., St. 200, Danville 434-797-1635

City Manager: Ken Larking

427 Patton St. 4th flr, Danville 434-799-5100

klarking@danvilleva.org

DANVILLE CITY COUNCIL

*Meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers on the fourth floor of City Hall located at 427 Patton Street.

Mayor: Alonzo Jones

218 Rockford Plc., Danville 434-250-3231

alonzo.jones@danvilleva.gov

Danville City Council Members:

James Buckner

125 Eden Plc., Danville 434-688-1589

james.buckner@danvilleva.gov

WWW.PITTGOV.ORG

Danville City Council Members (continued):

L.G. Campbell, Jr.

368 Mowbray Arch, Danville 434-793-9493

larry.campbell@danvilleva.gov

Gary P. Miller, MD

209 Updike Plc., Danville 434-799-0908

gary.miller@danvilleva.gov

Sherman Saunders

115 Druid Ln., Danville 434-799-8737

sherman.saunders@danvilleva.gov

Barry Mayo

1100 N. Main St., Apt. B, Danville 434-792-1041

barry.mayo@danvilleva.gov

J. Lee Vogler

118 Grove Park Cir., Danville 434-792-0937

lee.vogler@danvilleva.gov

Madison Whittle

143 Marshall Terr., Apt 6, Danville 434-251-0926

madison.whittle@danvilleva.gov

Bryant Hood

876 Stokes St., Danville (336) 933-1480

byrant.hood@danvilleva.gov

GRETNA TOWN COUNCIL

P.O. BOX 602, GRETNA • (434) 656-6572

Mayor: R. Keith Motley

P.O. Box 472, Gretna 434-656-6406

keith.motley@townofgretna.org

Vice Mayor: Dianne Jennings

P.O. Box 762, Gretna 434-656-6582

dianne.jennings@townofgretna.org

Town Council Members:

Michael L. Bond

P.O. Box 558, Gretna 434-656-3573

michael.bond@townofgretna.org

Mike Burnette

P.O. Box 1227, Gretna 434-656-8061

mike.burnette@townofgretna.org

Deborah Moran

P.O. Box 630, Gretna 434-656-6079

deborah.moran@townofgretna.org

|

Town Council Members:

James Gilbert P.O. Box 781, Gretna james.gilbert@townofgretna.org

Barbara Hubbard

212 Huffmond St., Gretna 434-238-1096

Interim Town Manager: Bill Gillespie

434-656-3989

Town Clerk/Treasurer: Crystal Grubbs

Crystal.Grubbs@townofgretna.org

Town Attorney: Michael Turner

434-656-3989

HURT TOWN COUNCIL

P.O. BOX 760, HURT •(434) 608-0554

*Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Hurt Town Hall.

Mayor: Gary K. Hodnett gary.hodnett@townofhurtva.gov

Vice Mayor: Bob Majure bob.majure@townofhurtva.gov

Town Council Members:

Jeremiah Knowles jeremiah.knowles@townofhurtva.gov

Kathy Haymore-Keesee kathy.keesee@townofhurtva.gov

Gary Poindexter gary.poindexter@townofhurtva.gov

Glen Mitchell glen.mitchell@townofhurt.gov

Clerk: Kelsie Sligh

Treasurer: Ellen Brumfield

Public Works Coordinator: Joseph Smith

UNITED STATES CONGRESS

Senators: The Honorable Mark R. Warner

459-A Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 202-224-2023

The Honorable Tim Kaine

388 Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 202-224-4024

308 Craghead St., Ste. 102A, Danville 434-792-0976

House of Representatives: The Honorable Bob Good 1213 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C. 202-225-4711

20436 Lynchburg Hwy, Suite F, Lynchburg, VA 434-791-2596

STATE SENATE

Frank M. Ruff

Pocahontas Bldg., Room #E505, Senate of Virginia, P.O. Box 396, Richmond 804-698-7515

P.O. Box 332, Clarksville 434-374-5129

William M. Stanley district20@senate.virginia.gov

Pocahontas Bldg., Room #E504, Senate of Virginia, P.O. Box 396, Richmond 804-698-7520

P.O. Box 96, Glade Hill 540-721-6028

VIRGINIA HOUSE OF DELEGATES

Les Adams

Member Since: 2014

R - Counties of Henry (part) and Pittsylvania (part), City of Martinsville

16th District

Capital Office - General Assembly Bldg

P.O. Box 406, Richmond

804-698-1016

delladams@house.virginia.gov

Room Number: 719

Legislative Assistant: Shani Shorter

Secretary During Session: Julia Bouck

District Office

P.O. Box K, Chatham 434-432-1600

W. Daniel Marshall III

Preferred Name: Danny

Member Since: 2002

R - Counties of Henry (part) and Pittsylvania (part); City of Danville

14th District

Capitol Office - General Assembly Bldg

P.O. Box 406, Richmond 804-698-1014

deldmarshall@house.virginia.gov

Room Number: 702

Legislative Assistant: Mary K. Franklin

Secretary During Session: Jackie Price

District Office

P.O. Box 439, Danville

434-797-5861

434-797-2642 (Fax)

CITY INFORMATION

Budget Department

434-733-8105

City Attorney

434-799-5122

City Manager

434-799-5100

Clerk of Circuit Court

434-799-5168

Commissioner of Revenue

434-799-5145

Community Development

434-799-5260

Danville Regional Airport

434-799-5110

Danville Public Schools

434-799-6400

Danville Utilities

434-799-5155

Economic Development

434-793-1753

Emergency Preparedness

434-799-6535

Finance Department

434-799-5185

Fire Department

434-799-5226

Health Department

434-766-9828

Human Resources

434-799-5241

Jail

434-799-5130

Parks and Recreation

434-799-5200

Public Works

434-799-5245

Registrar

434-799-6560

Social Services

434-799-6537

Transit System

434-799-5144

Treasurer’s Office

434-799-5140

POLICE

NON-EMEGENCY NUMBERS

Danville Police Department

434-799-5111

Danville Sheriff’s Office

434-799-5135

Pittsylvania County Sheriff

434-432-7800

Chatham Police Department

Mon-Fri 9a-5p

434-432-9515

24 Hours

434-432-2222

Gretna Police Department

434-656-6123

Hurt Police Department

434-608-0554

Virginia State Police

800-553-3144

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Community Center at Chatham

434-432-3115

Community Foundation of the Dan River Region

434-793-0884

Dan River Business Development Center

434-793-9100

Danville Community Market

434-797-8961

Danville Economic Development Office

434-793-1753

Danville Museum Fine Arts & History

434-793-5644

Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism

434-799-5200

Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce

434-836-6990

Danville Science Center

434-799-5160

Danville Welcome Center

434-793-4636

Downtown Danville Association

434-791-4470

Olde Dominion Agricultural Center

434-432-8026

Pittsylvania County Recreation Dept.

434-432-7736

Social Security Administration

800-772-1213

Veterans Affairs

800-827-1000

Voter Registration Danville

434-799-6560

Voter Registration Pittsylvania County

434-432-7971

Libraries

Pittsylvania County Library

434-432-3271

Pittsylvania Library - Gretna

434-656-2579

Pittsylvania Library - Brosville-Cascade

434-685-1285

Pittsylvania Library – Mount Hermon

434-835-0326

Pittsylvania History Center & Library

434-432-8931

Danville Public Library

434-799-5195

Danville Library - Westover

434-799-5152

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

GOVERNMENT TELEPHONE LISTINGS

Pittsylvania County All Departments

434-432-7700

Agricultural Development

434-432-7993

Animal Control

434-432-7937

Assistant County Administrator

434-432-7720

Building Inspections

434-432-7755

Central Accounting

434-432-7743

Commissioner of Revenue

434-432-7940

Community Policy/Management

434-432-8371

County Administrator

434-432-7710

Crime Stoppers

800-791-0044

Dispatch

434-432-7931

Electoral Board

434-432-7798

Jail

434-432-7831

Landfill

434-432-7980

Purchasing

434-432-7744

Recreation Dept

434-432-7736

Registrar

434-432-7971

School Board

434-432-2761

Soil Conservation

434-432-7768

Treasurer’s Office

434-432-7960

Victim/Witness Program

434-432-7854

Virginia Cooperative Extension

434-432-7770

Zoning Code Compliance

434-432-7750

Courts:

Adult Probation

434-432-7853

Circuit Court Clerk

434-432-7887

Commonwealth Attorney

434-432-7900

General District Court Clerk

434-432-7879

J & D Court Clerk

434-432-7861

J & D Court Services Unit

434-432-7864

Magistrate’s Office

434-432-7910

Emergency Management & Communications: Communications/Dispatchers

434-432-7931

Director

434-432-7920

Fire Marshall

434-432-7936

Farm Services Agency

434-432-7765

Health Department

Pitt./Danville Health District

434-799-5190

Child Development Clinic

434-797-1040

Environmental Health

434-432-7758

Water Programs

434-836-8416

Clinic-Chatham

434-432-7232

Clinic-Danville

434-799-5190

Clinic-Gretna

434-656-1266

Sheriff’s Office

From Chatham/Danville

434-432-7800

From Gretna/Hurt

434-656-6211

From Whitmell

434-797-9550

Dispatch

434-432-7931

Social Services

Chatham

434-432-7281

Danville

434-799-6543

Gretna

434-656-8407

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N. Main Street • Danville, VA 24540 Phone: (434) 835-4949 | Fax: (434) 262-4138

N. Main Street • Danville, VA 24540 Phone: (434) 835-4949 | Fax: (434)