April 2014 Front Porch Monthly

APRIL 2014 • AL WAYS FREE...

ALW

Even our Libraries Have P orches!

Porches!

By Tim Brown Norene Young is a writer.

Norene Young is a mother.

Norene Young is a grandmother.

Norene Young is a teacher.

Norene Young is a volunteer.

Norene Young is a weaver.

Yes, Norene Young wears many hats. She does much more in a day’s time than most of us do in a week.

Norene stopped by the Peterstown Public Library for Story Hour and I just happened to be there. She settled into a rocking chair as the children gathered around in front of her to listen as she read. The children were glued to her every word as she read from a book she had written 35 years earlier.

Norene wrote “Cathy, The Castaway Cat” 35 years ago and sent it to a few publishers who took turns telling her that they were not buying children’s books. She decided to put it away for a time and focused on writing stories with spelling words so her students could better retain what they had learned.

In 2012, she was moved to find her manuscript and see if she could get her book published. Though it took her a while to locate the manuscript, the effort paid off in a major way for Norene.

PUBLISHAMERICA, LLLP, a publisher based in Baltimore, Maryland decided the book was worthy.

To date, Norene has appeared at three book

signings. The Union Public Library (Union, WV), Hinton Public Library (Hinton, WV) and Wakerobin Gallery (Forest Hill, WV) have been the sites thusfar with many more planned in the near future.

Pictured above is the cover of the book written by Norene Young

Cathy, The Castaway Cat is the story of an abandoned cat who finds a new home with a young girl who needs a friend as much as Cathy does. Norene worded the book in a way that small children can easily understand and identify with.

The book features art work that was also done 35 years ago. That work was done by, then teen, Sandy Lilly Woodyard, who was one of Norene’s students.

Norene is always keeps her ears pealed for those having baby showers. She goes to as many as she finds out about and gives her book as a gift. At one recent shower she has been met with, “Oh, I’ve read that book.

They’ve got that book at my school.”

Cathy, The Castaway Cat is catalogued through the Mountain Library Network

Norene Young Is...

which connects about 30 libraries in West Virginia.

Norene has another book in the works and her daughter, Nerissa Young, has also had a book published. Nerissa penned “Peek-A-Boo Kitty and had it published by the same company her mother utilized.

So, what does Norene do in her spare time? She is an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma (an education sorority that supports books and reading for children), several local clubs, crocheting and works 300 piece puzzles. She also loves to read.

Norene has heeded her great grandmother, Alvina Canterbury’s advice: “Any stitches you put in on Sunday, you will pull out with your teeth in Heaven.” Those are simple words to remind Norene the importance of giving time to God. Norene lives in the Forest Hill area next to her son, Jeffrey (Jeff) Young who takes care of computer networking for Giles County Public Schools. Across the road is her daughter Teresa (Terry) Dixon. Jeff is married to Patricia and they have one daughter, Michelle. Terry is married to Marvin and they have two sons, Mark and Andrew. Nerissa is a journalism professor at Ohio University. Norene is the widow of Weldon Young, who was employed many years at the Celanese Plant in Narrows, Virginia.

The book, Cathy, The Castaway Cat, is available online through Amazon.

Norene can be reached at 304-466-3156 for book signings and readings.

Norene reads “Cathy, The Castaway Cat” to children at The Peterstown Public Library

Andrew, Norene, Mark, Terry and Marvin Pose for a Christmas Memory

Jeff, Michelle and Norene celebrate another Concord University graduation

Page 2

By Marvin Hylton A few days ago as I scanned my daily paper in search of something interesting to read I discovered a small article buried in the middle pages that immediately attracted my attention. It had something to do with the earning power of the average American and the author claimed those folks who were intellectually disabled were at the bottom of the wage scale.

I thought about that for a minute before it dawned on me that intellectually disabled is a forty-dollar term coined by someone who does not wish to offend anyone. It became obvious to me the author used intellectually disabled as a kinder, gentler way of saying “dumber than a box of rocks.”

I mulled the term over in my mind a bit more and it suddenly hit me that each and every one of us is intellectually disabled; only on different subjects. I am fairly knowledgeable about motor vehicles, old rusty machinery, and baseball.

However, I am intellectually disabled when it comes to nuclear fission, quantum physics, and understanding women.

Apparently there are millions of us out there who are intellectually disabled. Why else would there be warning labels on almost everything we use? You know what I am referring to; things like a cup of coffee from a burger joint that warns us the contents are hot. Those warnings are on there for a reason.

Those warnings are there because someone spilled their coffee in their lap and then sued because they were not told the coffee was hot.

Intellectually disabled people are the reason some of the following warnings (which I just happen to have been collecting) exist.

For example, in the toy department of a large store during Christmas I saw a Superman outfit for kids with

this printed on the package; “Warning, cape does not allow user to fly.” I am fairly certain that we as adults would understand this but apparently someone failed to explain that fact to little Johnny.

It gets better (or possibly stranger) as we examine things a little more closely. How about this one that I found in a microwave oven manual; “Warning, do not use for drying pets” sounds like someone, somewhere was intellectually disabled.

There are several that I have seen that should be plain old common sense but after reading the warnings I have come to believe that common sense has left the building without leaving a forwarding address.

Otherwise we would not need anyone to tell us things like these...

On a cardboard sunshield for a car; “Do not drive with sunshield in place.”

On a toilet bowl cleaning brush; “Do not use orally.”

On a portable stroller; “Caution, remove infant before folding for storage.”

On a pair of shin guards; “Shin pads cannot protect any part of the body they do not cover.”

On a laser pointer; “Do not look into laser with remaining eye.”

In the instructions for using a digital thermometer; “Do not use orally after using rectally.”

On a box of rat poison; “Warning, has been found to cause cancer in laboratory mice.”

And finally, my personal favorite, from a Dura flame fireplace log; “Caution, risk of fire.”

Remembering Mercer County

By Jeff Harvey Hello, and welcome to “Remembering Mercer County”, a look at the history of Mercer County using various sources as background material.

The history of a community can be captured in volumes of books or in something as small as a Christmas ornament, in this case, the annual Christmas ornaments sold by the Princeton-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. Starting in 1993 and continuing until the present, the PMCCC has commemorated the history of Mercer County in ornament form, with this week’s feature being the old Princeton Memorial Hospital, which was caught in ornament form in 1994.

The building which became PMH started as the Francis Hotel at the northwest corner of Mercer and Main streets in 1915. It was a large, brick three-story building.

Dr. Gordon L. Todd, Sr. purchased the building in 1918 from Mrs. F.W. (Lillie) Steger and converted it into a

hospital and a training school for nurses.

In 1926, Dr. Carl W. Smith bought a half-interest in PMH, which had a 45-bed capacity. With the closing of Princeton Hospital on Center Street, PMH became Princeton’s only medical facility until 1970.

PMH was enlarged in the late 1940s with a wing on its west side and remained in operation until Princeton Community Hospital opened on December 20, 1970. The building was demolished in 1973.

During its 52 years of operation, 31,068 babies were born at PMH. Joe P. Adams, lovingly rememembered as “Dr. Joe”, served PMH for 43 years and PCH for 10 more as an orderly.

Information for this column came from information written by brother and sister historians Jack and Margaret Ann Scott which was used or the cards which accompanied the ornaments.

Jeff Harvey is a veteran newspaper writer and columnist for the Princeton Times who lives in Athens, WV.

Intellectually Disabled & Remembering Mercer County...

Welcome: Sit down, prop those feet up, and relax while you enjoy The Front Porch...

Page 4 - The House By: Jo Osborne Page 5 - Is This Winter or What?

By: Joyce Munsey Heather’s Corner By: Heather Chandler Page 6 - The Hole Digger By: Jessie J. Muncy Page 7 - Mary’s Musings By: Mary Wright Page 8 - April Recipes Page 9 - April Recipes Page 11 - The Madness of Love By: Salvatore Butacci “Musings” continued Page 12 - Front Porch Quilting By: Julie Martin Page 13 - Coming Events Page 14 - Coming Events

Front Porch Monthly (FPM) 540-357-3760 540-921-1218 Owned and operated by: Sugar Run Media, LLC 457 Sugar Run Road Staffordsville, Virginia 24167 FPM is printed by: Beckley Newspapers 801 N. Kanawha Street Beckley, West Virginia 25802 Submissions and Advertising Questions: frontporchmonthly@yahoo.com

“A FEEL GOOD PUBLICATION IN A FEEL BAD TIME...”

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

By Jo Osborne I am old. Very old. Older than dirt. I don’t remember when I was built but before the Civil War, probably in the middle 1800s.

I don’t remember who decided to build me because it was so long ago. How happy I was when men gathered to put the finishing touches on my large frame.

I am large because I was built for a large family.

I am very proud of the wood they used to build me; Yellow poplar. It was abundant and made good lumber that would endure time, the weather, and termites…

Trees were cut and taken to a nearby sawmill for making lumber for my inside and outside. Then the lumber was brought to “my place” and the building began.

Because of my size it was necessary to construct two attics; one over the main part of the house and the other one over the kitchen. The space above the kitchen wasn’t large enough for bedrooms. The upstairs has two bedrooms, both large enough to hold three or four beds. The stairs were built on two levels; the first has thirteen steps and the small one that led to the bedrooms has two. My downstairs has a large kitchen, a large bedroom in the back near the steps that was later used as a parlor for people who had died and were being buried in the nearby cemetery. A fireplace was built between the kitchen and another bedroom. Another room adjoined the room with the fireplace. It was called “the front room.” Two doors led

into the kitchen from outside; one on the north side and one on the south. As was the style of the time, a small porch was built from the hallway upstairs which was over the other porch on the lower floor. My front porch was small with banisters around it as well as the one upstairs. I remained this way until the 1930s. Then my two side porches were enclosed and one became a dining room and the other one became the back porch. The upstairs porch was removed and a window replaced the door opening. My small front porch was enlarged with additional steps that led to the ground.

My inside walls and floors were built of yellow poplar also. Planks 6" wide and ¾” thick were grooved to fit together perfectly. The planks on the floor weren’t grooved but did fit together.

The planks on my outside walls are about 4" wide and ½” thick. No insulation was used because at the time I was built none existed.

When I was completed, my family moved in; a man, his wife, and several relatives.

The relatives that moved in stayed for a few years and moved out or died. The male left to fight in the Civil War but happily, he returned unharmed and began farming. In 1877 a son was born, the only child of the couple who now lived there.

They lived there until they died and were buried in the family cemetery. When the son grew up and married, he fathered six children. Only one son, the second, remained with me while the rest, three girls and two boys,

The House...

grew up, married, and moved into homes of their own. The one that remained had four girls. His mother continued to live here until her death in 1956. All the girls, except the youngest, moved away, and built homes of their own. She stayed until their mother died in 1990 then she and the two little girls left.

The door slammed shut as they left me. How could I endure? For more than 150 years I have kept the family warm and protected within my walls. Now I am being left to die of loneliness and despair for without people I will surely die.

I stand empty. I don’t know what my fate will be. Will I die by fire like my friend, the barn. Who will keep me painted, my grass cut, my porch swept? Who will want me when I become ugly?

Who will love me?

I miss the laughter of the children and the warmth that only people can generate. I no longer hear the laughing, crying, and singing of my family. All around me is silence. I am cold and lonely.

There is no fire in the kitchen but I can smell all the good food that was prepared there.

Will I ever smell those things again and feel the warmth and love of a family? All I have is hope.

What is that I hear? It sounds like a key in my door.

Do I hear the laughter of children? After all these years of waiting and hoping that someone would come.

I can’t believe it. A family is moving in. Oh happy day!

Now I can live again!

Our Staff is Available for Weekly Bi-Weekly, and Monthly Cleanings Call from 9-6, Monday - Friday Or 9-12, Saturday to Schedule an Appointment We Serve Monroe, Giles, and Mercer Counties!

Our Staff are Local Experienced Cleaners Here to Serve You! Page 4

By Joyce Munsey WOW, IS THIS WINTER OR WHAT! Before we can dig out from one snow storm, another is on the way! Now we know how New Englanders must feel.

Don’t know if I cut more grass last summer or have shoveled more snow this winter. I really don’t mind either, both provide great exercise and I’m so thankful for the agility to do these chores. But I just may skip this year’s lawn treatment program and instead just smell the roses. J As for now, it’s still winter to enjoy and I’m waiting for the next snow! Before you become irate, let me say I have compassion for those who must travel to and from their jobs. And as the cold temps have been extreme, so have the fuel bills. There are pros and cons to all seasons and everyone has their favorites, mine being fall and winter. When I worked I enjoyed warming my car up in the cold temperatures,

dressing warm in layers, and walking into the warm plant with the strong, cold wind whipping outside. Likewise, I appreciated my good warm apartment when I returned home in the bitter cold. And only the ice would prevent me from driving, never the snow.

Through the years I have learned to prepare and do the necessary things that I can do for weathering the storm.

My brother, Bud, said to me one day, “We are survivors, Joyce.” I knew this, but I didn’t know he had noticed. He made me feel good that day, as he did many times. To be prepared will sweeten our attitude toward events over which we have no control. To be unprepared is a stress maker.

My check list consists of grocery shopping, milk and bread of course! J In case of power outages, I fill a thermos with hot, steaming water for my “must-have” two cups of coffee in the a.m., have a supply of batteries for flash lights and radio, charge cell phone and urgent alert, fill my car with gas and

propane tank well supplied.

We’ve been so blessed this year to have kept power and cable, though many have not.

The weather channel is much in demand and I like the first news of the day. With church closings, we have Charles Stanley and David Jeremiah to watch! And now, the great sports, the Olympics, this year a little different because of where they are being held. My favorite, the exciting basketball rivalries, leading into March Madness! Of course, we have books to read, lessons to study and also, stories to write about the weather! J I am never bored or at a loss for something to do.

When we’ve prepared, then we’re ready to settle in, to wait and watch for those snow flakes to fall from the gray, wintry clouds that appear to be so heavy, it will likely be more than a dusting!

Winter is here but not for long so we will embrace it or tolerate it, whichever the case. Springtime is right

Copies of “Horse Spoofs” are available for sale. Contact me, Heather Chandler, at 304-753-4078 to secure a copy of the book.

Thank you and God Bless!

around the corner for all you warm weather lovers.

God is still in the heavens dictating the weather patterns for the seasons as they will surely come. He knows what is best! We only have to agree that He knows what is best!

Just listen and hear the quiet that a good snowfall will bring. Look and see the beauty of the landscape as the brightness of the full moon enhances the already incredible beauty of the snow

covered earth. Takes my breath away!

WOW! THIS IS WINTER! I will end with this little story.

As my friend watched from her deck door, the wind was swirling, blowing the snow cluster from one side of her yard to the other, forming a snowball right before her eyes. A fairy tale? No, just our Heavenly Father delighting my friend. He brought a smile to her face for a brief moment, as she was unhappily snow-bound.

OPEN: 9:00am - 6:00pm

Located Across from the Entrance to James Monroe High School

Debs Beauty Salon Welcomes New Clients 39 Years Experience Hours: Monday & Thursday: 11:00am - 7:00pm Wednesday & Friday: 10:30am - 5:00pm

540-921-3112

By Appointment Only • Located in Ripplemead, VA

Is This Winter or What? and Heather’s Corner ...

Page 5

By Jessie J. Muncy In 1941 I was a growing boy of 10. It seemed to me that my Mama was having a baby every nine months. As the babies came, Dad would have to spend more and more time adding on to that old house we lived in to make more room. That and fixing the leaking roof kept him pretty busy.

In his struggle to feed this growing crowd, Dad made many trips up into the nearby mountains where he secretly made moonshine in an old hand-fashioned still. Of course, it was only sold locally – mostly to neighbors – to make a few dollars to get by on. I can’t say too much against it because times were hard.

My father was uneducated and poor. A combination of these two factors usually leads to desperate decisions.

What he didn’t know was that his decision would bring even harder times for us.

We all paid a great price when the revenuers took Dad to jail to serve a sentence for making and selling illegal whiskey. Despite the rough roads, Dad returned, and then we were just one big happy family.

For a boy of 10 I had plenty of sense. I just didn’t use it! I was always getting into trouble. It scares me to reminisce about some of the things I did back then.

When I was young, I loved to dig. It was just something I loved to do. Once, on one of my father’s rare trips to town, he purchased a mattock, a pickax and a shiny, new, red, pointed shovel. He would find

out later this was a big mistake.

My father revealed the purpose of these new tools the next morning. He said we needed to move the outhouse, and I’d been chosen to find a new location and dig a hole at the new site.

Needless to say I was overjoyed. I could hardly wait until after school to get started digging that hole! I hurried home and set right to work on this very important chore. An audience of brothers and sisters had gathered to watch, but Mama soon came and shooed them all out of my way.

I dug until dark and got it down about 3 feet. Then I squared it real nice. Daddy came and inspected it the next morning and said I was doing a good job. When I finally finished, I called Dad to help move the outhouse over the fresh hole. I was so proud. We had a nice, new, clean outhouse and I helped!

For a while things went fine.

Then the rains came. You see, there is an art to digging hole for an outhouse. It is best to place boards along the sides of the hole as you go. If you don’t, when the rains come, the dirt falls right back into the hole. It quickly fills up again.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have any boards to use. Within four weeks I had to dig another hole. This time I put it up on the hill about 30 yards from the house. It held up fine and lasted a good while. From then on, digging new outhouse holes was my special job.

It irritated my father that I never bothered to consult with him when it was time to

The Hole Digger...

Pictured above is Jessie’s father, Owen Muncy, and little brother Don, whom Jessie buried in 1941. The ouhouse is in the background

relocate. When he had to use the facilities in a hurry one morning, he had to hunt me down first. “Where’d you put the darn thing this time, Jessie?”

Once, I saw an old Western in which Indians captured three white men.

The Indians dug three holes and buried the men alive, with only their heads above the ground.

Then the Indians rode off into the sunset, leaving some big black buzzards circling the area, ready to finish them off. I was very impressed! I decided I would like to try that myself.

I had a younger brother, Don, who was forever following me around. One day I was at it again, digging another hole. I dug a hole 4 feet deep and rounded it off. I

turned to my little brother and asked him if he would like me to put him in the hole and bury him. The poor little fellow shook his head yes. I helped him down into the hole. It was too deep so I had to fill some of the dirt back in. I worked with him until his head stuck out just right.

Hours passed. That evening the family was sitting around the house as usual, but Mama seemed to be worried about something.

“Jessie,” she said, “have you seen your brother? I haven’t seen him all day!”

I quickly remembered.

“Mama, I know where he is. I put him in a hole and left him behind the house this morning.”

I just couldn’t understand what all the excitement was about. Mama ran out

screaming and crying and praying to God out loud!

When I went out to see what was happening Mama was down on all fours, clawing with her bare hands to get my poor brother out of there.

At that moment I realized something was definitely wrong and I was in big trouble. I knew I was in for a good whipping or worse. I high-tailed it out of there and hid in a tree house I had built up in an old birch tree.

Something told me I didn’t want to be found for a while.

I could see good from where I was. I watched Mama get Don out. I thought he looked OK, except his face was red and his eyes all bulged out. I wondered why his lips were so blue! Well, at least he wasn’t dead. I was relieved about that!

They got a friend to rush him into town to see the doctor. As it turned out, Don also had four broken ribs. He would be alright in a few weeks, no thanks to me.

When Mama and Daddy caught up with me, they gave me the talking-to of my life. I was a changed little boy after that and it would be a long, long time before I would dig any more holes. * The Hole Digger appeared in “Good Old Days Specials”, March 1997 SUBSCRIBE TODAY! $20.00 FOR ONE YEAR SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO: FRONT PORCH MONTHLY P.O. BOX 51 RIPPLEMEAD, VA 24150

Page 6

By Mary Wright But, I’m not a Hoarder…

Any of us can probably look about our homes and see loads of items that we no longer use. Why and when did we acquire so much stuff? Have you stuck your head in your basement or attic lately? Beware, it’s a scary experience if you have collected as much as I have over the years. Now, please understand, I used that expression, “collected,” very loosely. That is not to say that what I’ve stored up is anybody’s treasure.

I once had a friend stop by and say, “I love your horse collection.” I said, “I don’t have a horse collection!”

She said, “I’ve counted ten different horse pictures or figures just in your living room.” Now, I’ve only ridden a horse twice in my life and that was a very long time ago.

Looking about, I indeed had that many horsey thingamajiggers! I put them all in the soccer team yard sale box. I certainly didn’t need, or even want them.

They had sat in the same spot so long, I don’t think I even saw them anymore.

If I think back, I can recall my husband saying something like, “Why do we keep putting all these things in the basement instead of just getting rid of them?”

Well, to get them out of our way until we get a chance to think more about them, right?? And that chance just never presented itself. When we got married, (back in the 70’s) we received three lovely avocado green electric mixers. We didn’t return any

of them because I thought we might need them. I’m still using mixer number 3. I insist that it is only 12 years old because it was “new” in the box when I took it out. The other two proved to be trustworthy appliances until they died a natural death.

The first time we moved, after about fifteen years in the same place, I gave 3 truckloads to Goodwill, about that many to the lady helping me pack up and piles to the church yard sale. And, we won’t even talk about how much we threw away. I have a practice about throwing things away. I take the especially nice items, like the lovely hunter green clothes hamper or the grill that has a single foot high flame that flares up, or the big screen tv that the tv repairman told us never to bring back to him again… and place them by the trashcans the evening before trash day and put a sign on them that says, FREE! Usually, it also has an explanation of what the problem is too. There are many people out there much handier than we are. By the next morning, the items usually magically disappear!

We used to do that with the kid’s old wagons and bikes when they were younger.

Think about the huge walkin closets homes have these days. Guess what, most of them are stuffed to the hilt with overflow in the guest room closet or coat closet. I can remember visiting with my Granny back when I was a little girl. She lived in Mt Tabor. I don’t think her bedroom even had a closet.

She had a small chest of drawers and a hook on the

Mary’s Musings...

back door where a few dresses and a couple of warm sweaters hung.

Everything else she owned fit nicely in the chest of drawers.

In her kitchen, she had very few pots and pans, but could whip up the best meals for us. She had one set of dishes and if more company showed up at dinner time, she washed the dishes and went another round. When I look around my kitchen, I must have 40 glasses and 30+ cups. If I had that much company, we’d use red solo cups and paper plates, so why do I have that much glassware in waiting? And don’t even get me started on the number of plates, saucers and cookware. I could start a home catering business with this collection.

Does anyone use china cups and saucers anymore? At our house, when they want coffee, they want a giant mug. The little china cups look like a half cup, don’t you think?

I have older relatives that can tell you the occasion and who gave them just about every item in their home. Not only that, but they can tell you amusing anecdotes about the givers too. They lived at a time when things were not so disposable and you didn’t buy whatever you needed whenever you wanted, because you couldn’t afford to. Gifts were so much more appreciated then. They had everyday dishes and then, the really nice china that was reserved for a special occasion. Sometimes, I think that occasion was just to...

“Musings” Cont. on Page 11

Page 7

EMMA JEAN’S GENERAL STORE (304) 466-3900

OPEN 7 - DAYS: 7:00AM - 7:00PM

ANTIQUES GROCERIES Located Midway Between Peterstown and Hinton Just A Few Miles Off Of Rt. 12 in Marie, WV

Baked Striped Bass, Cote Basque (La Cote Basque, New York) 3 to 4 lb whole striped bass, dressed and boned ½ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 shallot, thinly sliced ¼ cup thinly sliced onion 2 bay leaves Dash dried thyme leaves 2 cloves garlic 1 cup sliced mushrooms ½ cup parsley sprigs 2 celery stalks, with leaves 1 tablespoon sweet butter 3 cups dry white wine SAUCE 1 teaspoon plus ½ cup sweet butter 1 teaspoon flour 1. Preheat oven to 400F. Lightly butter large, shallow baking pan. Wash bass; pat dry with paper towels.

2. Sprinkle bass, inside and out with salt and pepper.

3. Place in baking pan. Add remaining ingredients (except sauce), distributing evenly around bass.

4. Bake, basting frequently with liquid in pan, 40 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.

5. Carefully remove fish to heated serving platter. Cover, and keep in a warm place.

6. Make sauce: Cook liquid, uncovered, over medium heat, until it measures 1 cup – about 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove from heat.

7. Combine 1 teaspoon butter with flour and blend into hot liquid. Bring to boiling, stirring; boil 2 minutes.

8. Reduce heat, Add remaining butter, shaking pan form side to side until butter melts. Remove from heat.

9. Pass sauce with fish.

Makes 6 servings.

Mutt Mutt’’s

Four Seasons Fruit Flan (The four seasons, New York) Flan shell ¼ cup soft butter 2 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons almond paste ½ teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 egg white ¾ cup sifted all-purpose flour Pastry Cream 1 pkg (3 ¼ oz) vanilla pudding and pie filling mix 1 ½ cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 baker’s ladyfingers split 2 teaspoons kirsch Apricot glaze ½ cup apricot preserves 13 banana slices, cut diagonally, 1/8 inch thick 1/3 cup fresh raspberries 1/3 cup seedless green grapes 8 fresh strawberries, halved ¼ cup fresh blueberries 1. Make Flan shell: Grease and lightly flour an 8-by-1 ½inch round layer-cake pan. In small bowl of electric mixer, at medium speed, cream butter, sugar, almond paste, and lemon peel until well combined. Add egg white; beat at high speed, until smooth. Gradually beat in flour. With fingers, press evenly on to bottom and side of pan. Refrigerate-1 hour.

2. Preheat oven to 300F. Bake shell 50 minutes, or until golden. Cool 15 minutes.

Gently turn out on rack; cool.

3. Make pastry cream: in small saucepan, combine pudding mix with milk, Cook as package directs, Remove

April Recipes...

FURNITURE Lots and Lots of Primitives

Candleberry Candles • Florals • Collectibles Curios • Lamps • Rockers • Bedding • Primitives

Furniture for Every Room!

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat: 9:00 - 5:00 Wednesday: 9:00 - 12:00 Rt. 219 Between Peterstown & Rich Creek

540-726-2785

from heat. Turn into bowl. Add vanilla. Place sheet of waxed paper on surface of filling.

Refrigerate until chilled.

4. Assemble flan 1 hour before serving: Spread half the pastry cream over bottom of shell. Arrange ladyfingers over surface Sprinkle with kirsch. Cover with rest of cream.

5. Make Apricot Glaze: in small saucepan, heat apricot preserves with 2 tablespoons water, stirring until melted.

Strain; cool. Arrange fruit over surface, brushing with glaze, Refrigerate. Serves 8.

Brown Sugar Apple Pie 1 pkg (11oz) piecrust mix ½ cup light brown sugar ½ cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons flour ¾ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon salt 6 cups thinly sliced, pared, tart apples (about 2lbs)

1 ½ teaspoons grated lemon peel 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 egg yolk 1. Make pastry as package directs. Roll pastry for bottom crust as directed in Rhubarb Custard Pie (Card 17a).

2. Preheat oven to 425F. In large bowl, mix sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Add apples; toss lightly to combine. Turn apple mixture into pastry-lined pie plate, mounding up in center to support top crust. Sprinkle with lemon peel. Dot apples with butter cut in small pieces.

3. Roll out remaining pastry into 12-inch circle. Fold over in quarters; cut slits for steam vents.

4. Using scissors, trim overhanging pastry of bottom crust to measure ½ inch from rim of pie plate. Carefully place folded pastry for top crust so that point is at center of filling and unfold. Using

scissors, trim overhanging pastry of top crust to measure 1 inch from edge all around. Moisten edge of bottom pastry with a little water. Folds top pastry under edge of bottom pastry.

5. With fingers, press edges to seal. Press upright to for rim. Crimp edge: place thumb on edge of pastry at an angle. Pinch dough between index finger and thumb. Repeat at same angle all around. Mix yolk with 1 tablespoon water; brush on crust. Bake 45-50 minutes, until apples are tender, crust golden. Serve warm. Serves 6-8.

Old-Fashioned Potato Bread Packaged instant mashed potato 2 pkg (1/4-oz size) active dry yeast 2 cups warm water (105115F) ¼ cup sugar

Page 8

1 tbsp salt ½ cup butter or regular margarine, softened 7 ½ to 7 ¾ cups unsifted all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted 1. Make potatoes for 2 servings, as label directs, using liquid, omitting utter and seasoning. Measure 1 cup.

2. In large bowl, sprinkle yeast over water; stir until dissolved. Stir in sugar and salt until dissolved. Add 1 cup potatoes, ½ cup butter, and 3 ½ cups flour. With electric mixer at medium speed, beat until smooth – 2 minutes.

Gradually add 4 cups flour, mixing with hands until smooth and stiff enough to leave bowl. Add remaining ¼ cup flour if needed.

3. Turn out onto lightly floured board. Knead until smooth, elastic, small blisters appear on surface – 10 minutes.

4. Place in greased large bowl; turn over. Cover with towel; let rise in warm place (85F), until double – 1 hour.

5. Turn out dough onto lightly floured pastry cloth or board.

Divide in half. Roll out one half into a 16-by-8 inch rectangle; roll up from one end. Press ends even, pinch to seal, and tuck under loaf. Place, seam side down, in greased 9-by5-by-3 inch loaf pan. Brush surface lightly with some of the melted butter. Repeat with other half of dough.

6. Let loaves rise in warm place, until tops are rounded1 hour. Set oven rack at lowest level. Preheat oven to 400F. 7. Bake 30-40 minutes, or until deep golden brown and loves sound hollow when tapped. If crust becomes too

brown, cover with brown paper. Turn out onto wore racks; brush tops with remaining butter. Cool.

Makes 2 loaves.

Country Pot Roast with Noodles 5-to-6 lb beef blade bone chuck roast Flour 1 ½ teaspoons salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons salad oil ½ cup chopped onion ½ cup chopped celery 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 cup tomato juice 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves 12 small carrots, pared (about 1lb) 1 pkg (8oz) wide noodles 1. Wipe roast with damp paper towels. Combine ¼ cup flour, salt, and pepper; use to coat roast.

2. In hot oil in large skillet, over medium heat, brown roast well on all sides – about 20 minutes in all.

3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until golden.

4. Add tomato juice, ¼ cup water, Worcestershire, and oregano. Bring to boiling; reduce heat, and simmer, covered and turning meat once, 2 hours. Add carrots; simmer 30 minutes longer, or until meat and carrots are tender.

5. Meanwhile, cook noodles as package label directs; drain.

6. Transfer roast and carrots to heated serving platter.

Surround with noodles. Keep warm.

7. Pour pan drippings into 2cup measure. Skim off fat,

More April Recipes...

and discard. Add water to liquid to make 1 ½ cups.

Return to pan.

8. In small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons flour with 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Stir into pan juices.

Bring to boiling, stirring; reduce heat, and simmer 3 minutes. Season with additional salt, if desired.

Serve with roast. Makes 6 servings.

Floating heart Ritz (The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Boston) ¾ cup sugar 3 egg yolks Dash salt 1 cup crumbled almond macaroons 4 ladyfingers split 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier 1 ½ cups heavy cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ½ teaspoon almond extract Raspberry Sauce ½ cup heavy cream, whipped Chocolate curls 1. Line 7-inch (6-7 cup), heart shaped mold with foil.

2. In small saucepan, combine sugar with 1/3 cup water. Bring to boiling over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Boil gently, without stirring, to 230F on candy thermometer, or until a little of the sugar mixtures spins a thread when dropped from spoon.

3. In medium bowl, with portable electric mixer at medium speed, beat yolks and salt until light. Gradually beat in to syrup, in thin stream, beating until mixture begins to cool- 2 minutes.

Stir in macaroons.

Refrigerate 30 minutes.

Page 9

4. Sprinkle ladyfingers with Grand Marnier; set aside.

Combine 1 ½ cups cream with extracts; beat until stiff.

5. With rubber scraper, fold whipped cream into macaroon mixture. Turn half of the mixture into prepared mold; cover with ladyfingers; pour in remaining mixture.

Freeze until firm- about 4 hours. Make Raspberry sauce.

6. To serve: Unmold frozen heart onto chilled shallow dish. Spoon sauce around.

Decorate with whipped cream.

Garnish with chocolate curls. Serves 10.

• AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS • LIFE • HEALTH • DISABILITY

ENJOY SPRING IN MERCER COUNTY, WV...

The Har dw ar eS e Hardw dwar are Sttor ore

• PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL • FASTENERS • GLIDDEN & GRAYSEAL PAINT • HAND TOOLS • PET SUPPLIES • LAWN & GARDEN • AND MUCH MORE!

Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday: 9:00am - 4:00pm Closed on Sunday

105 Harvey Street • Pearisburg, VA • Located Across from Food-Lion

540-921-1456 Spring Savings: Poulan P1500 WeedEater On SALE... $89.99

By Salvatore Buttaci He was allergic to nuts. He kept a better than safe distance from those who demonstrated even a casual flirtation with madness.

“I don’t like the unpredictable,” Harlan said again and again, “Hard to figure them out. One second you’re caught up in laughing at one of their jokes, the next, your dukes are up protecting you from their out-of-the-blue fist attacks. What gives?”

As Harlan’s friend since first grade class, I think something really traumatic happened to him before he started school, something so scary that it left him not only averse to those burdened psychologically but weighed down with psychological problems of his own.

When I tried to delve into reasons for his outbursts, his stock reply, “Just shut your pie hole!” shut me down. “I’m not the sicko,” Harlan explained. “Look around you, Lenny. What do you see?”

“A touch of paranoia?”

Harlan screwed up his lips in disgust.

“I know what’s out there,” he said.

Now here’s where you sit up and put some blank into your face. Harlan is a firefighter! He dashes into blazing buildings and he dashes out of them with burn victims in his arms or over his rugged shoulders. Does he ask them first if they’re sane? Hell no! He’s won numerous scars and more than a wall full of hero commendations from city hall for his courage.

I told him once, “Harlan, you are one strange mystery.

Then I threw in some homegrown wisdom. “You’re in a love-hate relationship with the world.” To this Harlan had nothing to say.

Then months ago an apartment building on Blake and Cypress caught fire.

Flames climbed from floor to floor, stretching towards the roof. Incredibly, there were no fatalities, only a few tenants ambulanced to County General for minor burns.

Neighboring buildings were evacuated in the event the fire jumped sideways, spreading more danger on a chilly February Monday. Folks gathered across the street and watched the flames devour what it could.

When the last flames were extinguished, Harlan saw her in the crowd. One of the people who had fled the burning building unscathed but trembling from the night air. Without a word he draped his coat around her shoulders.

“Who was she?” I asked him the next morning. Harlan shook his head. “I don’t know,” he said, “but I think I’m in love.”

When he found out her name was Lena Trent, it did not still the flutter of bird wings inside him. His heart went on singing.

“Victor Trent’s daughter?” I asked.

Harlan nodded.

“The same Victor Trent now confined to a mental sanitarium in Duluth?”

Again, Harlan nodded, but his face did not pale nor shed the joy so obviously there.

“For being a little shy of mad?”

Harlan threw his hand in the air and waved it all away.

“I love her, Lenny.”

“You saw her once!”

“And I’m gonna see her for the rest of my life, if she’ll have me.”

Salvatore Buttaci is the author of A Dusting of Star Fall: Love Poems, published by CyberWit Publications. Copies are available from Buttaci for $18 (handling & shipping included). Contact him at salvatorebuttaci@yahoo.com A retired teacher and college professor, Buttaci lives in Princeton with his wife Sharon.

SHAWNITTA’S DINER Introducing...

Country Cooking Specials Throughout the Week!

Call ahead to find out the Weekly Specials!

It could be...

Meatloaf • Barbeque Chicken • Sauerkraut & Weiners • Casseroles • Lasagna Spaghetti • Chili Beans The possiblities are Endless!

NOW OPEN FROM NOON - 8:00 ON SUNDAYS!

304-753-4643 • Ballard, WV

“Musings” Continued from Page 7

...look at and admire. I’ve always heard you’d better use the good china because if you didn’t, the second wife would. I wouldn’t worry too much about that, just make sure you get the dishes, right?

On facebook: shawnittasdiner If we had to get out of our house in a hurry and never return, what personal items would we grab to take with us? Many have gone through bad experiences such as fires, floods, tornados where they have lost everything and

The Madness of Love & Mary’s Musings (Continued from Page 7)...

have to start over with nothing. Whether we really think about it or not, our personal collections do mean a lot to us. Most of us could afford to pare down a bit and share our excess treasures with others.

Page 11

By Julie Martin A Walk in Winter Two simple little words – Make Do – were a part of my life long before I was the creator of them!

My grandmother was born in 1917 and lived to the “admirable” age of 83. I say this to give you a time frame of a woman who grew up in a home with very little, then married and raised children during the depression years.

Now they knew the meaning of Make Do! I loved to get my Mommaw talking about her childhood. Her mother taught her how valuable

things were; even items that were broken or had served their original purpose could be used in another manner.

They recycled way before it was popular to do so.

Scraps of clothing were sewn into quilts or used to patch up clothes that still had a bit of life left in them. If you thought about it long enough, you could come up with many different ways to re-use things in order to extend its value.

One of the things I am most thankful to have been taught is how valuable our time spent with family and friends can be. This is something that requires no

money at all and can have a life-long impression on the ones you give it to, with no way to measure its eternal value.

Some of my fondest memories are of a full moon on a snowy Christmas Eve night. It is a sight to behold.

To take a walk in it is a memory worth making. My Mom-maw would tell me the Christmas story of how the Christ child came into the world on a night just like the one we were experiencing.

While we strolled below, the moon went on his nightly errand above the earth.

Under the quite peaceful rays of its light, the woodland

creatures roamed unhurried and played at peace with one another. What a pity for

• Your Local Home Decorating Center •

humans to sleep while it is at its fullest – missing the beauty meant for all to enjoy.

I remember those walks, then coming in for a hot cup of homemade creamy cocoa. I would drink it while sitting in the moon glow near a softly burning fire until I finally feel asleep.

If you want to teach your family the true meaning of this Holiday Season, then show them by giving them your time. I don’t remember what gifts I received during all those years growing up – nor do I even care. I have the most important gifts that I ever received in my heart and in my memories. They are time worn ways of my ancestors and I honor them by keeping alive their simple

Front Porch Quilting - Grandma and Me - #12...

ways and the legacy taught of generations past.

Granny’s Sewing Room “We’ll Keep You In Stitches”

WE SELL FABRIC DMC Threads We do Alterations!

Mon - Fri: 10:00-5:00 Closed Sunday & Thursday

304-425-6554

1119 Mercer St • Princeton, WV

subscribe...

$20.00/YR

CALL: 540357-3760

Page 12

April 7-12: Bluefield College will host its annual “Celebration of Appalachia,” culminating as always, with the traditional daylong Appalachian Festival, Saturday April 12. Open to the community at-large and featuring local artists, crafters, musicians, cooks, authors, storytellers, outdoorsmen and other vendors and talents, the Appalachian Festival will run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on April 12: More than 50 vendors took part in the celebration last year, and the college hopes even more will participate in 2014. Interested in vendors are invited to contact the college for a vendor application. Contact BC’s Kristy Stout by e-mail at kstout@bluefield.edu. or by phone at (276) 326-4246.

Vendors may also access an application online at www.bluefieldedu/ appalachia.

Apr 8: Senior Potluck Luncheon - Wytheville Community Center, 333 Community Blvd. Wytheville.

Easter Theme, 11:30am 1pm Open to Seniors 50+ Bring your favorite dish!

Drinks, utensils and paper products will be provided.

FREE! 276.223.3378 Apr 9: Wythe-Bland Young Professionals - Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, 170 Malin Dr., Wytheville. 6 - 8pm If you are between the ages of 21-40, we invite you to join us! 276.223.3365 April 10: Music Storytelling with John Wyatt – Pipestem Resort State Park, John Wyatt, the Appalachian will entertain you in Pipestem’s Lodge Lobby. Playing music by the fireplace, telling

stories about Appalachia.

Join us for this free evening from 7:00p.m. – 8:30p.m. For more information: (304) 4661800.

Apr 11&12: 2nd Annual Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising Wytheville Meeting Center, 333 Community Blvd.

Wytheville. Sponsored by the ACMA (Appalachian Cultural Music Assoc.) Over 30 bands! Bluegrass, Old Time, Americana! Jam session, workshops, trade show & more! 423.444.2893 Apr 11&12: Instrument Auction - Wytheville Meeting Center, 333 Community Blvd., Wytheville. The Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising will present a musical instrument and vintage musical instrument auction on Saturday, April 12th at 5:00 pm. The auction will take place on the main stage promptly at 5 pm and will continue until 6 pm.

276.608.0619 Apr 12: Warm Hearts Spring Craft Bazaar - 4th St. Civic Center, 250 S. 4th St., Wytheville. 9 am - 2 pm Participants include: Origami Owl, handmade jewelry, Paparazzi, Thirty-One, handmade stationery, olive oil soaps, country decor, Swarovski crystal jewelry, handmade leather items & more. Free craft making for children. Sponsored by the Wytheville Fire Department Auxiliary who will also be selling BBQ, hot dogs & homemade baked goods.

276.228.6771 Apr 12: Easter Eggstravaganza - Withers Park, Wytheville. 11 am for ages 6-9 years old; 11:30 pm for ages 5 and under. In the event of inclement weather,

April Coming Events...

the Easter Egg Hunt will be held the following Saturday at the same time and location.

276.223.3378 Apr 12: Childrens Easter Celebration - Wytheville First Church of God, 1135 Cove Rd., Wytheville. 1:00 PM. Suggested ages: 3 - 8 Egg hunt, prizes, games, crafts, stories and snacks. Going N. on 4th St. (approx. 0.3 miles past Walmart), turn right on Holston Rd. At the end of Holston Rd., turn left onto Cove Rd. The church is on the left.

Apr 12: William “Bill” Creggar Scholarship Beans & Cornbread Supper - Peery Center Gym, Ceres VA. (slaw made like Bill Creggar always made it) To raise funds for a scholarship to be awarded to a Bland High School senior. Musicians invited Price: By Donation.

5:00 PM. bethub@embarqmail.com Apr 15: Technology in Business - Wytheville Community College, Grayson Hall Room 219, 1000 East Main St., Wytheville. 9 - 11:30am / FREE Join us for this one-ofa-kind workshop and learn how todays innovative technologies can help your business become more efficient, productive and profitable. This workshop is perfect for small businesses and organizations who are struggling to incorporate technology into their day to day operations. You will learn about mobile and social media marketing, cloud storage, mobile credit card processing, and equipment like smart phones and tablets to increase productivity.

Sponsored by the Wytheville-

Wythe-Bland Chamber of Commerce. Registration required. 276.223.3365 Apr 16: Understanding Your Fiduciary Role (That you may not know) and Franklin Templetons 2020 Vision: Time to Take Stock Wytheville Meeting Center, 333 Community Blvd., Wytheville. 12:00 PM. Workshop Two 15-20 minute workshops that participants will find informative and enjoyable. Co sponsored with Ed Clyburn, Edward Jones Investments and the Wytheville-Wythe-Bland Chamber Of Commerce Apr 17: Senior Walkers Breakfast - Wytheville Community Center, 333 Community Blvd. Wytheville.

8 - 10am FREE breakfast to honor all Senior Walkers for your hard work during the winter months!

276.223.3378 Apr 17: WCCs 3rd Annual Career Fair - Crossroads Institute, Galax VA. 12 - 4pm Learn about job openings, network with employers & find internship opportunities Professional Dress Required. 276.223.4739 Apr 18: Kids Night Out Wytheville Community Center, 333 Community Blvd. Wytheville. 6 - 9pm Children will play games, enjoy arts and crafts, play sports and watch movies while parents enjoy their own free time. All activities will be supervised during the evening and children will be provided with pizza for dinner, as well as snacks and drinks to enjoy afterwards. Call for Fee Information Ages 6 - 12 Register 2 weeks prior.

276.223.3378

Apr 19: Trail Running at Crystal Springs - Crystal Springs Recreation Area, 723 Pump Hollow Rd., Wytheville. 10:00 AM. FREE Age 18+ Register 2 weeks prior. 276.223.3378 Apr 19: Annual Easter Egg Hunt - Rural Retreat Rescue Squad, 210 E. Railroad Ave, Rural Retreat. Includes face painting, cookie decorating, bounce houses and obstacle course, local arts and craft vendors, and lots more. The egg hunt will begin at 1 p.m.

Sponsored by Rural Retreat Volunteer Emergency Services.

10:00 AM. 276.686.6964 or 276.620.0819 Apr 19: WCC Bluegrass and Old Time Jamboree Wytheville Community College, 1000 East Main Street, Wytheville. 7:00 PM. FREE, located in Snyder Auditorium. Seating is first come, first serve. Sponsored

by Wytheville Community College. 276.223.4848 Apr 23: Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon - Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, 170 Malin Dr., Wytheville. Registration 11am Program 11:30am 1pm Sponsored by The Chamber of Commerce.

276.223.3365 April 24: Music Storytelling with John Wyatt at Pipestem Resort State Park - John Wyatt, The Appalachian will entertain you in Pipestem’s Lodge Lobby. Playing music by the fireplace; telling stories about Appalachia.

Join us for this free evening.

Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m For more information: (304) 466-1800.

April 25-26: 35 Annual Better Living Show at the Brushfork

Page 13

National Guard Armory, Bluefield, WV. Theme: “The Best Blooming Time” The event will include over 100 exhibitors showcasing their state-of-the-art products, services and technology promoting better living for all aspects of the home or office. Times: Friday, April 25, 2014 - 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Saturday, April 26, 2014 - 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. For more information: (304) 3277184 Apr 25: Open Kayak Playtime - Wytheville Community Center, 333 Community Blvd. Wytheville. 6 - 7pm Discover some of the basic skills associated with kayaking and have loads of fun! Ages 6+ Register 2 weeks prior. 276.223.3378 Apr 25: Fundraiser and Mixer - The Cellar (basement of former Hobert N. Grubb building), 213 W. Main St., Wytheville. 6 - 8pm Event includes silent auction, West Wind wine, appetizers and music. A historical review and an update of revitalization efforts of downtown Wytheville. Tickets are $25 each and are available at the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, Petals of Wytheville and the E. Lee Trinkle Regional Visitors C e n t e r . www.downtownwytheville.com Apr 26: Artisan Showcase & Sale - former Leggett building, 175 W. Main St., Wytheville. 9am - 3pm Artists, craftsman, and authors are invited to display and/or sale their works.

Deadline to register as a participant is Tuesday, April 1.

Forms are available online. $30 entry fee or artist may donate a piece of work

toward the silent auction.

Sponsored by Downtown Wytheville, Inc. www.downtownwytheville.com Apr 26: Trail Running at Crystal Springs - Crystal Springs Recreation Area, 723 Pump Hollow Rd., Wytheville. 10:00 AM. FREE Age 18+ Register 2 weeks prior. 276.223.3378 Apr 26: Spring Thyme Open House - Beagle Ridge Herb Farm.

10:00 AM. 276.621.4511 Apr 26: Drug Take Back Day - Bland Co. Sheriffs Office, 612 Main St., Suite 203, Bland. 10am - 2pm Bland Co. residents can dispose of outdated or unused prescription and over-thecounter medications in a safe way. This is a program of the U.S. Dept. of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration to provide a convenient way to dispose of unwanted medicines.

Sponsored by the Bland Co. Sheriffs Office.

April 26-27: Irish Road Bowling at Pipestem Resort State Park - A magnificent view into the Bluestone River Gorge, Appalachian Spring colors in southern West Virginia, and one of the state’s very best road bowling roads, combine for an unforgettable weekend.

It’s time to go Irish Road Bowling. Women’s singles qualifier, Men’s and women’s singles qualifiers, Registration at noon at the campground and qualifiers start at 1 p.m. Lodge room discount available at McKeever Lodge. For more information: (304) 466-1800.

April 29: Jennifer Kirkland & Bert Carlson Quintet – Harman Chapel, Bluefield

College, VA. Get ready for an unforgettable musical conversation with this dynamic duo and the band.

Jennifer ’s sultry vocals.

Bert’s guitar wizardry, and their creative arrangements of everything from jazz standards to pop and rock tunes- even bluegrass and old-time tunes- add up to a musical experience that will keep your toes tapping and your soul engaged. Time: 7:30 p.m. Admission: $15 for adults, $10 for students and tickets will be available at the door 30 minutes before show time. For tickets and more information: (276) 3264248 or visit http:// www.bluemountainperformingarts.com

Craft Memorial Library News Wreath-Making Demonstration at Craft Memorial Library Looking for something to spruce up your house?

Come learn how to make a spring wreath. Join Shirley Vest on Tuesday, April 8th, at 2:00 pm as she demonstrates how to make a wreath. Participants will be entered into a drawing to receive a handmade wreath valued at $40.

Registration required.

Register in person at the library, by calling 304-3253943 or online at http:// craftmemorial.lib.wv.us/ eventscalendar.html.

RIVER MOUNTAIN SHEDS AND MORE, LLC A Division of Hillside Sheds WE ARE NOW AN AUTHORIZED DEALER OF CAROLINA CARPORTS...

Stop by Our New Location...

Pembroke, VA (Old Dairy Queen) We have plenty of Poly & Wood Furniture Available Now! 304-731-6180 or 540-726-3500 OPEN: 10-6 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat CLOSED: Wednesday and Sunday (Call for appointment) Glen Lyn, VA • Rich Creek, VA Bluefield, VA (Across from Fast Stop/Rt. 460)

We have opportunities in most fields, and we do professional resumes!

Coming Events & Craft Memorial Library News...

Budgeting: Making the Most of Your Money Is your bank account stretched thin? Need help making a budget? Join Rhonda Bishop, Financial Services Specialist with Apprisen, on Wednesday, April 9th, at 1:00 to learn how to make the most of your income.

Apprisen is a 501(C)3 nonprofit counseling agency whose mission is helping people improve their financial well-being through counseling, community outreach and financial education.

Registration requested.

Register in person at the library, by calling 304-3253943 or online at http:// craftmemorial.lib.wv.us/ eventscalendar.html.

Teen Movie Night at Craft Memorial Library Join us at Craft Memorial Library on Monday, April 14th, at 5:00 pm to enjoy a space adventure based on an award winning teen book.

This movie is rated PG-13 for some violence, sci-fi action and thematic material.

Contact the library for more information! Concessions available. This event is sponsored by Friends of the Library.

Registration required.

Register in person at the library, by calling 304-3253943 or online at http:// craftmemorial.lib.wv.us/ eventscalendar.html.

Craft Memorial Library is located at 600 Commerce Street, Bluefield, WV. For more information, please call 304-325-3943.

Page 14

Budget Saver Prices Bedding Starting At: Twin Set - $159.00 Full Set - $199.00 Queen Set - $249.00

Stop in and Check out our Many New Fragrances!

Vanilla Rain • Strawberry Beach House

FREE Candleberry Candle With Minimum Purchase Come In and Ask For Details!

12 Months No Finance Charge Lay-Away Plan

Free Local Delivery Ask About: Senior Discount

FANTASTIC SAVINGS ALL YEAR LONG

FANTASTIC SAVINGS ALL YEAR LONG

Phillips DVD/VCR Combo

Component Video & RCA Audio Cable Kit - 6’

Located Across From Food Lion • Pearisburg, Virginia

HARVEY STREET ELECTRONICS

SALE: $6.99

SALE: $79.99 Reg: $89.99

Cobra CB Antenna

SALE: $24.99 Reg: $34.99

Reg: $9.99

Casio Light-up Keyboard LK165

SALE: $129.99

Pyle 7” Headrest DVD Player

SALE: $119.99

Reg: $149.99 iBeam eReader

Was: $149.99

SALE: $82.99 Reg: $99.99

Diamond Mini Bluetooth Speaker

SALE: $31.99 Reg: $39.99

540-921-1882

105 Harvey Street • Pearisburg, VA 24134

540-921-1456

Prices Valid - April 2014