Evince December 06 by Andrew Brooks Media Group

December 2006

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Table of Contents The Man and Events 2 Behind EVINCE The Man and Events Behind EVINCE by Emyl Jenkins

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Downtown With Liz Sater

Second Thoughts Point Me in The Right Direction by Kim Clifton

Historic Homes Tour in Yanceyville, NC by Gordon Bendall

Breathing New Life Into Chinqua Penn Plantation by Joyce Wilburn

Christmas Shopping Ideas by Cathy Farley

Chrismons: A 50-Year Tradition by Ann Garbett

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EVINCE Calendar Around the Table Homemade Gifts From the Kitchen by Annelle Williams ‘Tis The Season for Singing

Looking at the Big Picture by Kathryn Davis

Hughes Memorial Home Being Sold at Auction by Ted Argyrakis 300 Years of Christmas in Chatham by Mary Lee Black

Christmas Comes Early to Eden by Marianne Aiken

Larry Aaron: Barefoot Boy by Russ Carter

It’s no coincidence that the season of hope, Christmas, is followed by the coming in of the New Year. It’s all about the dream of making things better. That’s the dream Larry Oldham made come true some ten years ago. Larry’s the sort of person who can make anyone feel clever and witty. His ever-smiling hazel eyes and infectious laugh are guarantees that all who make his acquaintance will feel better for spending time with him. “Tell me you missed me,” he says when meeting a friend, which brings an affirmative answer and a chuckle at the blatant bid for a laugh. Larry’s ability to unearth a positive uplifting attitude in those who form his wide circle of friends was just what was needed to create a newspaper that would do the same thing for an entire community. Fortunately for Danville and the surrounding area, he was living in the City by the Dan when inspiration struck and the award-winning EVINCE was conceived. EVINCE’s journey from the twinkle in Larry’s eye to the birth of the first issue actually began in 1975. Larry had moved to Danville to manage Stereo Village in Riverside Shopping Center and Ballou Park Shopping Center. He saw the need for a newspaper that would have mass appeal and encourage citizens to become more involved in the arts. Twenty years later circumstances

Stroll by Candlelight Into Three Victorian Homes by Bill Trakas

Choose STEMe in 2007 by Pam Divine Fashion Statement Fur Forecast by Ben Rippe

Lasting Thoughts by Kim Clifton

On the Cover: Chinqua Penn Plantation owners, Lisa Yamaoka and Calvin Phelps, hold Calvin Jr. while standing in the dining room of the 1920s American castle in Reidsville, North Carolina. Photo by Bobby Carlsen. Visit www.bobbycarlsen.com.

Never Miss An Event Or An EVINCE Subscribe to EVINCE and enjoy the convenience of having every issue delivered by mail to your home. Send your name, address, and a check for $15 (12 issues) to: EVINCE Managing Editor, and mail to Evince Subscription, P.O. Box 2396, Danville, VA 24541.

Coming Soon - www.evincere.net

EVINCERE, INC. P.O. Box 2396 • Danville, Virginia 24541 © 2006 by EVINCERE, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part in any medium without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

A Symphony Celebration to Help Others by Mary Franklin Parsons Dance Company Leaves Audience Craving For More by Joyce Wilburn

racing—for VIR (Virginia International Raceway) has helped bring new people with new vision to our region, like no other single factor has. And in the tradition begun by Larry Oldham, EVINCE continues. Faces from the first issues of EVINCE continue to bring insight and laughter to the pages, especially Kim Clifton’s and Larry Aaron’s, all the while devoted citizens and writers keep us up to date on what’s happening under Joyce Wilburn’s watchful eye. It’s been a great 10 years—and as we look to Christmas and the New Year ahead, and EVINCE’s next 10 years, Robert Browning’s immortal words come to mind. “Come grow old with me, the best is yet to be.” Merry Christmas to each of you from EVINCE. May the Season and your dreams be filled with Hope and Joy.

Deadline for submission of December stories, articles, ads, and calendar items is 5pm on Tuesday, Dec. 19th.

Take a Break at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History by Joyce Wilburn

brought together four talented people with the necessary skills to make the dream become reality. “In order to be successful, you have to put strong people around you who know what they are doing,” Larry says and then lists the founding partners of EVINCE. Linda Burford laid out the newspaper; Danny Vaden designed the ads; and Rick Barker joined Larry in selling advertising. “We wanted advertisers to care about the arts,” he says, explaining that it was important for all to share the same vision of promoting arts and special events for the entire community. They had the skills, but, “We didn’t have a name for the paper in the beginning,” Larry recalls. It was Danny Vaden who suggested EVINCE, which means to show, make clear, or support. “We all immediately liked it because it sounded like the word events, which is what we were about,” he recalls. From its first issue in 1996, EVINCE has become a mainstay of the region. But, as Tennyson wrote, “the old order changeth,” and these days Larry is a reader, rather than owner. Bob Sexton and Emyl Jenkins have owned the paper, first in part, then in full, since late 1998. What hasn’t changed though is the spirit behind EVINCE and its mission to showcase Danville and the region’s great talent, culture, and uniqueness that make Southern Virginia a special place in our hearts. Over the years the advertisers, writers, and readers have worked together to create a strong voice that supports the arts, culture, education, entertainment, economic development, and yes, even

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Publisher

Sales Manager Cathy Farley (434.793.7767) Sales@starmark.net

Contributing Writers

Sales Associate Christi Ingram (434.836.1319) ChristiIngram@starmark.net

Robert M. Sexton Publisher@starmark.net (804.285.0645) Marianne Aiken, Ted Argyrakis, Mary Lee Black, Gordon Bendall, Russ Carter, Kim Clifton, Kathryn Davis, Pam Divine, Cathy Farley, Mary Franklin, Ann Garbett, Emyl Jenkins, Ben Rippe, Liz Sater, Bill Trakas, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams

Averett Intern Russ Carter

Editor Emyl Jenkins Editor@starmark.net (804.285.0644) Managing Editor Joyce Wilburn ManagingEditor@starmark.net (434.799.3160) Associate Editor Larry G. Aaron Art & Production Director Vaden & Associates (Dan Vaden) Graphic Designer Kim Demont

Printer McCain Printing Company, Inc. EVINCE is a member of the Virginia Press Association, first place winner of the prestiguous PIVA award in its category for five straight years, and winner of Virginia Press Association awards for 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and Virginia Press Women’s Competition Awards for 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004.

Editorial Policies:

EVINCE is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute EVINCE free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW MISSION STATEMENT EVINCE is a monthly publication, which focuses on arts & entertainment in the surrounding area through an array of features, articles, columns, and photographic essays. Its primary objective is to inform and educate the community of opportunities, organizations, and events in all areas of the arts. In addition, it is the vision of EVINCE to enrich the cultural awareness and develop support for the arts in the entire community.

How to submit information to EVINCE:

Please send all information in electronic form to e-mail address evince@starmark.net. For calendar information, please submit e-mail to evinceda tes@starmark.net. To submit information, please copy and paste the text information into the body of the e-mail. We do not accept any e-mail attachments due to the very real danger of Microsoft-supported computer viruses.

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Executive Director of Downtown Danville Association

In the fall of 2004, Joyce Wilburn wrote in EVINCE about an emerging specialty business, Dixie Bags, noting that the unique enterprise was expanding “like insidious kudzu” and wondered, “Where will it go next?” We can now proudly answer that question. They are moving to Downtown Danville, becoming the 10th business to locate in the heart of the city since February 2006. Michelle and Gary Bender, owners of Dixie Bags and More - Gift Shop and Gallery, are originally from upstate New York. Michelle often traveled through Virginia as a child to visit relatives and always held our beautiful state in her heart with great affection. Ten years ago, a good friend moved to Danville, and shortly thereafter, Gary’s job was downsized. The Benders leapt at the chance to relocate—to Danville. Upon their arrival here the Benders opened A-1 Upholstery. It was while sorting through scraps of leftover materials that Michelle first recognized the opportunity to turn the exquisite tapestries used in their upholstery business into one-of-akind, highly functional works of art. She pieced together a few handbags, totes, and book covers and sold them at near-by community markets for extra money at Christmas. The immediate success of that small venture spurred them to further develop the business. Today, the upholstery business has fallen by the wayside and the Benders are manufacturing all sorts of bags, pillows, and accessories for customers around the globe. A peek at their website, www.dixiebags.com, shows over 22,000 hits. They have traveled all over the world to purchase unique fabrics, such as Belgian and Flemish tapestries, and all over the country to market their one-of-a-kind bags. It was in part the demands of traveling that eventually convinced Michelle to find a hometown storefront for the business. Previously, the business was in production mode from January to August. Then, with inventory in hand, the Benders sold their products at every holiday bazaar and community market within driving distance. Now they will concentrate their efforts to providing a memorable shopping experience for visitors to their shop at the corner of Patton and Ridge Streets. Gary, who, according to his wife, has boundless energy, will still be doing some traveling to make sure they offer the finest crafts and artwork from across the region. One of the nicest features of this business is the ability of customers

to choose a tapestry that has special meaning to them, then see it transformed into any style bag they desire. Recently, a bag was constructed that featured a Scottie dog. It looked so much like First Lady Laura Bush’s pets, Barney and Miss Beasley, that the Benders decided to give her the bag. With Congressman Virgil Goode’s help, the bag is now moving through the proper channels and Mrs. Bush will soon be the proud owner of a custommade Dixie Bag from Danville. In addition to specializing, Dixie Bags is capitalizing on a hot trend in retail—experiential marketing. When customers come to the shop, not only can they browse through the finished inventory, but they can watch as the bags are being made. Shoppers can learn about the designers and the fabrics, and witness the care and attention to detail that goes into making each piece. Experiential marketing will also take place in the gift shop when it opens in January. Area artisans will showcase their crafts and some will conduct demonstrations or seminars. All of the pieces offered for sale will have stories about the artists attached so customers will have a connection to their purchase. The gift shop will be like a “treasure chest,” says Michelle, “because you never know what you will find.” Once the building renovation is complete, you won’t be able to miss it. Basic black and white with accents of pink and rose will dress up the exterior of the building that formerly housed Bryant’s Restaurant Supply. During the month of December, the right side of the building will be open featuring Dixie Bags merchandise and manufacturing. Work will continue on the gallery side with a goal of opening in early January 2007. When she wrote the EVINCE story 2 years ago, Joyce Wilburn knew that Dixie Bags would be a success story. We are happy to welcome Dixie Bags and More to Downtown Danville and will enjoy watching as they continue to grow.

Don’t forget to stop in Dixie Bags and More when you come downtown for Holiday Traditions on Saturday, December 9, from 11am-3pm. There will be free horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday music, storytelling, and great shopping. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here with toys and candy for all good little boys and girls. For more information, call 434.791.4470.

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Breathing New Life Into Chinqua Penn Plantation by Joyce Wilburn

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“Yes, it’s going to be hard to childproof it,” quips Calvin Phelps, the new owner of Chinqua Penn Plantation in Reidsville, North Carolina. Gazing from the balcony above the 55’x35’ living room filled with priceless, fragile antiques, the father of 7-monthold Calvin, Jr. takes his role as owner of an American architectural treasure seriously, but with a sense of humor. Calvin, his wife, Lisa Yamaoka, and infant son are breathing new life literally and figuratively into the 27-room English countryside mansion filled with elaborate furnishings from 30 countries. Before August of this year when they took ownership, the future of the 1920s “American castle” didn’t look promising. The historic building, twice featured on A&E, suffered from the community’s economic ups and downs and closed in 1991, reopened in 1995, and closed again in 2002. Fortuitously, it was open-to-the-public when Calvin was looking for a first-date destination in April 1999. “It seemed like a good place to bring a history major,” he explains referring to Lisa’s status as a graduate student in secondary social studies education at Wake Forest University. Thinking back on that date, Lisa remembers, “The house had such a romantic quality about it.” With twinkling brown eyes and a warm smile, she then admits that they found love at first sight for each other, and for the house. Three years later, after a September wedding, the newlyweds started talking to an architect about building their dream house. The layout and design conversations always revolved around the fondly remembered rooms from the Chinqua Penn mansion. “The thing I loved most about Chinqua Penn was the library overlooking the living room and I wanted to recreate that,” Lisa recalls. After continually talking about the rooms and referring to pictures on the plantation’s website, the architect gave the newly-weds some foreshadowing advice when he said, “Why don’t you just buy Chinqua Penn?” Early in 2006, their destiny became apparent, and they did just that. “It was a rare opportunity. Homes like this don’t come on the market that often. It was in good condition with a big percentage of the Penn family collections still in it,” says Calvin. “It’s one of North Carolina’s hidden treasures.” In addition to preserving and improving the house, the couple wants to safeguard the wishes of Betsy and Jeff Penn—that after their deaths, the plantation would be open to the public and the treasures from their many foreign excursions could be viewed. “They brought so much back from their trips. For visitors who don’t have the opportunity to travel, they can come here and get a feel for that

spirit of adventure,” Calvin says all the while he deftly handles last-minute preparations for Saturday morning tourists. “We want this to become a self-sustaining property with special events, a winery, weddings, and over-night guests,” he says. But then, this man already juggles the ownership of several other businesses, including PTM Technologies, Alternative Brands, and Renegade Tobacco Company headquartered in Mocksville, North Carolina. Future plans for Chinqua Penn include building a winery on the site where a windmill building once stood, hosting a spring flower festival, opening the gift shop, opening a tasting room for the new Chinqua Penn wine, and renovating the pagoda and swimming pool. Calvin pauses for a minute while listing his future plans for the property to include his young son in his thoughts and laughs, “I told C.J. that I bought Chinqua Penn for him and I’m going to fix the swimming pool. If he can’t get a date in high school, it’s his own fault.” And that’s from a man who knows how important first dates can be.

Chinqua Penn Plantation, 2138 Wentworth Street in Reidsville, North Carolina, will be decorated for the season and Holiday Candlelight Tours will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December except Sunday, December 24.Tours will not be offered on Christmas Eve. Extended hours are Fridays 5 pm- 9pm, Saturdays 2pm8pm and Sundays 1pm- 4pm. In addition to seeing the house in candlelight and holiday splendor, guests will enjoy visits by Santa and a variety of musical entertainment on a varying schedule. Historical storytelling by “Jeff & Betsy Penn” in period costume is also planned. Holiday tour tickets are $15 for adults (ages, 16-61); $12 for seniors (age 62 and above) and college students with ID; $8.00 for youths (ages 6-15) and free for children 5 and under. To make appointments for weekday group tours or to reserve Chinqua Penn for private functions, contact Lynn Umstead, Director of Marketing at 336.477.4453 To reach Chinqua Penn Plantation go 16 miles from the Danville, Virginia/North Carolina border on Route 29S. Take Exit 153 (Reidsville, Eden). Turn right onto Route 14 North. Go 3.3 miles and turn left onto Salem Church Road. (This is not a major intersection and there is no traffic light.) Go 2 miles and turn right at the stop sign onto Wentworth Street. The estate is on the right. For more information call 336.349.4576 or visit www.chinquapenn.com.

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“Point Me In The Right Direction” There’s no reason to get lost anymore. With a GPS on my dashboard, I shouldn’t need a trail of breadcrumbs. But I do. Actually, what I need is a good map. The kind that looks like a poster with varicose veins. A paper one that lets me see from Florida to Maine by looking up, not by scrolling up. That’s why I have trouble with electronic charts like MapQuest. MapQuest is an Internet-based atlas. You type in the beginning and ending addresses and it outlines every road to take. That’s how it is in a perfect world. But the world isn’t perfect. And from the crazy directions I got, I’m not so sure the world’s even still round. The name should have been a hint. Not MapCertainty. MapQuest…implying a map adventure. Which is exactly what my sister and I had in Orlando last month. Make no mistake, this is no Mickey Mouse town. The theme park names should indicate how huge this place is. UNIVERSAL Studios. Sea WORLD. Disney WORLD. These

names mean one thing and one When I got to the last page, thing only—crowds. Or better there was no airport in sight. still, mobs. Usually angry ones. What was in sight was a seedy Which is an especially dangerous nightclub with a few cars out front. combination in the streets. Going inside unescorted and I’m not sure what causes road announcing I was lost didn’t seem rage, but I suspect frustration. a good idea. Maybe people get so tired of We weren’t just lost. At 12:45, we standing in line that they make up were lost and late. We could see for lost time when they get behind planes through the treetops, so we the wheel. It’s one thing to stand knew an airport had to be nearby. still. It’s another to sit still. So Unless we took a hike, we were they drive like maniacs…changing never going to get there from here. lanes more often than Microsoft I must have clicked something changes Windows. wrong, I thought, mentally Which brings me back to my retracing my steps to build the story. map. Choosing the “fastest It was at noon that we route” option had backfired. It remembered the Alamo, a may have been the fastest, if you dealership expecting our rental go the way the crow flies. car to be returned at 1:00. Short of Divine Intervention, While Diane drove, I checked off our only other hope was Celestial the MapQuest turns….Kirkman Navigation…something hard to Road, Sand Lake, South John come by in mid-day. Instead, Young Parkway and Oak Ridge. out-of-the-blue, a deputy pulled General Assembly Chorus

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beside us at the stoplight, proving once again that the Lord looks after fools. The officer didn’t flinch when we honked, so we rolled down the windows and flailed our arms. I’m sure he thought we were being kidnapped. And while everyone behind us called us everything but a child of God, we sat through a green light until our guardian angel told us exactly what to do. Orlando is nice, but it’s too big. I like living in a town where I can give directions from places that no longer exist. When I say a building is across from where the Charcoal House used to be, people know where I mean. I like living in a town where I can give directions by calling landmarks the wrong name. Even though it was built in 1969, everyone knows that the Aiken Bridge will always be the new bridge. If you know your way around, Orlando is a great place to visit. But if you hold up traffic, you’re going to get an earful like we did from some pretty irate drivers. I don’t think they were giving us directions, but I’m pretty sure they were telling us where to go.

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Historic Homes Tour in Yanceyville, NC by Gordon Bendall

A wide variety of private homes and public buildings within walking distance of Yanceyville’s Court Square will be open for the Caswell County Historical Association’s Historic Homes Tour on Sunday, December 10, from 1 to 6pm, followed by traditional Christmas carols at the Yanceyville Presbyterian Church. Dongola, just down from Court Square, has been owned since the 1990s by various investors in the film industry who have added sound studios for film production, social events, and a community ministry, while the Walter Harrelson House on West Main Street, built in 1885 is now the residence of Barry Smith who, with his late wife, Claudia, lovingly restored the home. The typically Gay ‘90s townhouse of Barzillai Graves, also on West Main Street, is currently being restored by Mike and Lucindy Willis, who have restored the Bartlett Yancey House and created the popular Yancey House Restaurant. The Scarborough Law Office, a Federal frame house with exterior end stone and brick chimneys is next door to the Kerr Hotel. For decades the law office of his father, Dr. Emerson Scarborough is currently restoring it. The brick Kerr Hotel on West Main was probably built under the supervision of architect-builder John Rucks. John Kerr obtained the property and operated the Kerr Hotel from 1890 into the 20th century. One can easily imagine guests gathering before the double fireplaces in the lobby after dinner in the sunken dining room. The house is on the National Register as birthplace of Congressman John Kerr. Clarendon Hall, across from the Kerr Hotel, was built in 1842. Interior woodwork includes mantels, molding, and doors attributed to the famed cabinetmaker Thomas Day, as is the grand staircase in the spacious hall. Current owners, Ben and Margaret Williams, have meticulously restored this elegant home. Ben is a former curator of the NC Museum of Art, and Margaret taught art at St. Mary’s College. The imposing Romanesque Courthouse, designed by the famous architect Sir William Percival and completed in 1861, has been called “the most beautiful courthouse in North Carolina.” Behind the courthouse, The Poteat School is typical of the one-room Caswell County schools of the early 1900s. The Old Caswell County Jail, located

December 2006 behind the historic courthouse, is a late19th century, 2-story brick building of Romanesque Revival design and served as the county jail until 1973. The Gatewood House on Court Square was apparently built in the early 19th century with additions and remodeling during both Greek Revival and late Victorian periods. Works of the late Maud Gatewood, the nationally known artist and daughter of Sheriff John Yancey and Mary Lea Florance Gatewood, are on display in the house’s Richmond-Miles Museum. Built in 1850, the Yanceyville Presbyterian Church on the corner of North Avenue and Church Street is a handsome Greek Revival brick church and the settle on the pulpit is believed to be by Thomas Day. Original pews located in the church vestibule are very similar to the Milton Presbyterian Church pews made by Day. The only house not within walking distance of the square is the Holderness Home on US 158 West. Its voluptuous mantels and front stair rail are also stylistically attributed to Thomas Day. Advance tickets are $12 and may be purchased at the Richmond-Miles Museum or the Chamber of Commerce office in the Gatewood House. Tickets on the day of the tour are $15 and will be available at the Museum, the Holderness House, and Dongola. Bag lunches are available at the Presbyterian Church for $5.00 starting at 12:30pm. For more information visit www.nccha.org.

Christmas Shopping Ideas

by Cathy Farley Looking for something different this Christmas? Are there special someones for whom you’ve exhausted all possibilities of items they don’t have? Here are two specialty store possibilities—one very new to Danville, one new to its current location. All Wrapped Up, recently relocated just a quick turn off Piedmont Drive between Quiznos and Fish Bones, began as a gift basket business. Now Rhona Cunningham has expanded into a full-scale gift shop with many unique items. For the pocketbook aficionado, there’s MadBags—gorgeous handbags covered with bone and shell, or made entirely of silk. Isabella’s Journey handbags are equally lovely in quilted, tapestry or chenille fabrics, and priced around $50. They won’t empty your pocketbook or blow your holiday budget. Another exclusive (formerly available only through mail order) are the Lee Middleton vinyl collector dolls that are so “real” you’ll be glad you don’t have to feed or diaper them. The ethnically diverse Playbabies range in price from $10$60 and the life-size infant collector dolls are higher priced. Another unique and updated antique item, Fragrance Lamps are safer than a candle and cleaner than an oil lamp. These beautifully “bottled” catalytic burner air fresheners actually remove bacteria from the air. According to Cunningham, the technology was developed in Europe during the 1800s to provide sanitation in hospitals. Today’s version not only cleans

December 2006 the air, but releases the fragrance. Diffusers start at $24.95 and increase with size and design. We’ve barely touched the surface of All Wrapped Up’s available gifts, many especially for your Christmas decor. There are children’s items as well, like the small suitcases that hold original 1000-piece puzzles of different cities, all wonderfully designed and painted by Eric Dowdle. The same artist also offers storybook puzzles in large faux books—and we’re still in the $25 price range. But I’ve saved the pièce de resistance for last. Webkinz. I thought the adorable pets, age appropriate for boys and girls 5-13, were just stuffed animals. I soon learned otherwise. Webkinz are the newest real and virtual pets currently sweeping the country and several foreign nations. The “web” in their name, by the way, has nothing to do with ducks! After buying the irresistible and reasonably priced ($9.95-$12.95) stuffed pet, the child has free access to an Internet web site where he/she must feed, house and care for the pet. The “pet” owner can speak to the pet, but must also earn money for its needs, including vet bills and other responsibilities—which is where the educational part of this newest fad comes into play. Grade level questions in math, science and social studies earn $5 in virtual money for each correct answer. I bought the cat—for my child, of course. Though Webkinz is not exclusive to this store, All Wrapped Up’s kids’ club is. As a thank-you to the buyers, Cunningham hosts activities, essay contests, and parties along with the opportunity to earn points towards a free Webkinz. If it’s an old-fashioned Christmas you long for, stop by the Keeling Mercantile Antiques and Quilt Shoppe on Piney Forest Road across from Arby’s. A mix of antiques and quilting supplies blends nicely with new, handmade finished quilts, also for sale. Owners Ann and Rick Roth owned a highly successful quilt shop in North Carolina until, in 1999, they moved to Danville to care for Ann’s aging parents. Always hoping for another shop, the Roths took the plunge this fall and returned to the work they love. Now, by including antiques, their shop has that homey feeling we often associate with simpler times and Christmas memories. Memories of my own grandmother’s quilting skills and how she offered to teach me hand quilting flooded over me the minute I entered the store. There is still hope, however. Classes are offered at the shop even for beginners, and Danville actually has a Quilting Guild for more experienced quilters. The quilting fabrics alone at the Quilt Shoppe will delight you. No need to cut up your old clothes and save frayed blankets. Today’s quilting materials are high quality 100% cotton with high thread counts. Think of the luxurious feel of 400-600 thread count sheets. The color dyes are sharper and clearer, and the colors themselves a feast for the eyes. Mark this store on your Christmas shopping list for a taste of Christmas Past.

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Chrismons: A 50-Year Tradition by Ann Garbett

December 2006 marks the 50th year of Chrismons trees at Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville. The gold and white Chrismons ornaments were first created by Frances Kipps Spencer, a member of the congregation who wanted something more appropriate than Santa Clauses and peppermint sticks with which to decorate the church Christmas tree. From her efforts, Chrismons were born. The name Chrismons reflects Mrs. Spencer’s intention for the ornaments to represent monograms of the name of Christ, but the ornaments, like the project itself, have grown far beyond the original concept. Early pictures of the Chrismons tree show a 6-foot cedar tree with ornaments shaped like monogram letters standing in the front of Ascension’s original small brick church. Today, many Chrismons are emblems representing events and ideas connected with Christ’s life and ministry, and Chrismons trees are found in churches (and private homes) across America and on every continent except Antarctica.

Ascension Lutheran, now in its home at 314 West Main Street, decorates a 22- foot cedar, a far cry from the modest original. The late Mrs. Spencer might not be surprised at all this; she always knew that her idea was powered by her faith. Fifty years calls for a special new Chrismons ornament to celebrate the anniversary. Two long-time members of the congregation who have worked tirelessly with the Chrismons ministry have created this special ornament. The design was the idea of the late Robert Shavers; its execution has been the work of Martha Gray McCauley. Like all Chrismons, it incorporates several traditional Christian emblems, including the cross, the rose to represent Christ, and the butterfly suggesting resurrection. The anniversary itself will be noted in the number 50 beaded into the butterfly’s wings. Multiples of another special Chrismons ornament are being made to present to the congregation’s past pastors who have nurtured this special ministry. But some things never change. The tradition continues of limiting the ornaments’ colors to gold and white to suggest the purity and majesty of God. Additionally, the congregation continues to protect the name Chrismons in an effort to prevent the ornaments from commercial exploitation. Instruction books for making Chrismons continue to be available at cost from the church. Also without change is Ascension’s joy in inviting the community to share in this gift which focuses on the real meanings at the heart of the Christmas season. Again this year, the Chrismons tree will be free for the public to view, from December 3-26 from 7pm to 9 pm each evening and from 3pm to 5 pm each Sunday afternoon. Explainers will be available to answer questions about the tree and its ornaments. Visitors are also welcome at Sunday worship services and at the 11 pm Christmas Eve service. For more information call 434.792.5795.

On Sunday, December 10, at 4pm, the choirs of Mount Vernon United Methodist Church will present their annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Patterned after the service that has been a tradition at King’s College, Cambridge, since 1918, the festival includes music for choirs, organ, handbells, flute, and guitar. Twenty minutes before the program begins, classical guitarist Rafael Scarfullery will present a prelude of Christmas music. A holiday reception in the Fellowship Hall follows the program.

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December 2006

• calendar of evince • Support the Tank Museum 434.836.5323 • www.aaftankmuseum.com

December Through December 19

Russell-Lavinder Exhibition - Works by 3 generations. Caswell County Civic Center - 336.694.4591.

Through December 20

Danville Art League Juried Exhibit. See p.16.

Through December 21

Teacher Angel Tree Project Provides community members and businesses with a way to help area teachers supply their classrooms. Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. - 434.766.6725.

Through December 24

Santa and Me Photos! Piedmont Mall - 434.792.0400.

Through December 28

Get Fit and Lose Weight - Thursdays 5:30-7:30 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

Through December 29

The Art of the Quilt Exhibition - Traditional to contemporary, handsewn to machine, all aspects of quilting are represented. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville - 276.632.3221.

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Cookbooks and Southern Cuisine ��

Archie & Amelie

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Southside VA: Echoing Through History ��

Through December 31

SBHCM Exhibit - Toys and board games and fabulous Christmas decorations. South Boston-Halifax County Museum - 434.572.9200.

Through January 7

Danville Science Center Exhibits - Koplen’s View - Experience a dozen radiant photographs by local artist and businessman Barry Koplen. Amazing Feats of Aging and Eyes on Earth -. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

Through April 1

Danville in Black and White - See p.16.

December 1

Town Of Halifax Christmas Parade. 5 pm. www.gohalifaxva.com. Luminary Trail Walk - Stroll along the candle lit river walk trail while listening to the sounds of holiday music. 6-8 pm. 434.799.5215.

December 1 & 2

Christmas in Historic Chatham - See p.14. Craft and Antique Show. 12/1 4-8 pm; 12/2 9 am-6 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning & Research - 434.766.6772.

December 1 (thru 3)

Over the River and Through the Woods - The Little Theatre of Danville at The North Theatre. www.danvillelittletheatre.org. The Children of Eden - Musical based on the first nine chapters of the book of Genesis. 12/1 & 2 - 8 pm; 12/3 - 3 pm. The Prizery, South Boston. Halifax Co. Little Theatre - www.hclt.org.

December 2

Holiday Pottery Show & Sale Locally made pottery and stoneware. 9 am-4 pm Tate-Walton Pottery, Ruffin, NC - 336.939.2064. Book Review - Patricia Mitchell. Chatham Books - See ad p.8. DRBA First Saturday Outing - Sprig Outing on Upper Little River to collect mistletoe and other holiday greens. Easy paddle trip. Forrest Altman - 336.234.8556.

Barefoot Boy

Bob Ross Painting Class - Hydrangeas in Televara. Complete a painting in one day. 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Ballou Park Annex Building - 434.797.8848. Radio Control Racing. Open 12 pm, Race 4 pm. Cooper’s Radio Controlled Race Center - 434.724.4182. Caswell Co. Christmas Parade. Followed by tree lighting, Caswell Co. Historic Courthouse. Parade - 4 pm. 336.694.6106. Uptown Christmas Parade. 6 pm. Uptown Martinsville - 276.632.4488. Pancake Breakfast. 6:30-10:30 am. Grace Design UMC - 434.836.4545. Christmas Music through the Ages Danville Area Choral Arts Society. 7:30 pm. Sacred Heart Catholic Church. rsutter@mindspring.com. See p.12.

December 3

Eden Homes Christmas Tour. See p.15. River Rotary Christmas Parade. 2:30 pm. Main Street, Danville. 434.793.4636. Kiwanis Victorian Gala - Fundraiser featuring the Oakwood Waits. Yancey House Restaurant & Gallery. 336.694.4371.

December 4 (thru 18)

Boogie Mondays - December is Couples Country. Mondays 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Recreation Center - 434.799.5216.

December 4 (thru Jan. 10) Art With Flo - Wet-on-wet technique. Mon 6-9 pm. or Wed 9:30 am-12:30 pm. Ballou Annex. 434.797.8848.

December 4

Story Time with Santa - Children are invited to do crafts and enjoy a story read by Santa while munching on cookies and milk. 5 pm. Piedmont Mall, Danville - 434.792.0400.

December 5

Art of the Quilt Gallery Talk & Luncheon. 11 am. Piedmont Arts Association, Martinsville 276.632.3221. Book Review - Donna Lucey. Chatham Books -See ad p.8. Windows XP File Management System - Learn to navigate folders and files 5:30 pm. Institute for

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Advanced Learning & Research 434.766.6793.

December 5 (thru 19)

Evening Yoga -. Tuesdays 5:30-7 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848.

December 6

Senior Bowling Tournament. 9-11 am. Riverside Lanes - 434.791.2695. Bob Ross Technique Workshop - Christmas Village snow scene. 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville - 276.632.3221. Pre-Legislative Affairs Luncheon - Keynote speakers: Sec. of Trans. 12 pm. Best Western, Martinsville - 276.632.6401. Club Zoom - Work in teams to design a message delivery system using common materials. Ages 7-11. 3:45-4:45 pm Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160. Candlelight Christmas Concert - Community Choir of Person accompanied by the strings of the Greensboro Symphony. Featuring familiar seasonal selections. 7:30 pm. Roxboro Baptist Church. dnewell@personcounty.net.

December 6 & 7

Claus & Paws Pet Photo Nights Bring your cat or dog for a special visit & photo with Santa Claus. 4-9 pm. 12/6 Dogs; 12/7 Cats. Piedmont Mall, Danville - 434.792.0400.

December 7

Science of Giving - Make crafts that could be used as gifts while learning the science behind the gift. Ages 4-8. 9:30 am-12 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160. Bow Making Class. 1-2:30 or 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Recreation Center - 434.799.5216. Using Digital Cameras and Photo Editing Software - Learn the basic parts of a digital camera and their functions. 5:30 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning & Research 434.766.6793.

December 8

BBQ Dinner Fundraiser. Sons of American Legion & AL Auxiliary. 5:30-8 pm. Dan River Post 1097. egor1@adelphia.net. COA Christmas Ball. 7:30-10:30 pm. Ballou Recreation Center 434.799.5216.

December 8 (thru 10)

Custom Works U.S. Open Wheel Championships. Cooper’s Radio Controlled Race Center 434.724.4182.

December 9

Holiday Season at the Farmer’s Market - Music, chef of the month, artisans. Uptown Farmer’s Market - 276.632.5688. Science of Giving - Learn history of dreamcatchers and use gifts of nature and your imagination to create your own. Ages 8-12. 9:30 am - 12 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160. Lunch With Santa - Includes lunch, crafts, games and prizes. Ages 3-8.

December 2006 10 am-12 p.m. Coates Recreation Center. 434.797.8848 or 799.6564. Book Signing - Captain L. S. Wigley, USN (Retired) book signing of Mission Complete at News and Novels 3282 Riverside Drive. 1-4pm Holiday Traditions - Christmas music, story telling, strolling carolers, and horse drawn carriage, Santa & Mrs. Claus and more. 11 am - 3 pm. Downtown Danville - 434.791.4470. Holiday Buffet and Candlelight Stroll - See p.17. Christmas Program - Danville Area Choral Arts Society. 7:30 pm. Chatham Presbyterian Church. rsutter@mindspring.com. Candlelight Christmas Concert (See 12/6) Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops. 7:30-9:30 pm. Martinsville High School Auditorium. Piedmont Arts Association, Martinsville 276.632.3221.

December 9 & 10

The Manhattan Music Ensemble - Joined by The Prizery Singers. 12/9 - 8 pm, 12/10 - 3 pm. Chastain Theatre, The Prizery, South Boston - 434.572.8339.

December 10

Urban Living Guided Tour - See what’s going on in the Warehouse District, Danville. 1-4 pm. Burton Condominiums. 434.792-3000. Gretna Christmas Parade. 3 pm. Main Street - Gretna. 434.656.6572. Sunday Afternoons at Mt. Vernon -See p.7.

December 11

Holiday Lights Contest Judging City Beautiful Committee will review each nominated house. 5:30-8:30 pm. 434.799.5215. Boogie Mondays Christmas Party. 6-9 pm. Ballou Recreation Center - 434.799.5216. Mariachi Band. 6:30-9:30 pm. Los Tres Magueyes Mexican Restaurant - 434.792.0601.

December 12

SPTC Luncheon - Mining for Money, What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You! 12-1:30 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning & Research - 434.766.6771. Dinosaurs of China - Discussion by Dr. Nicholas Fraser of VMNH. 7 pm. Danville Science Center 434.791.5160.

December 13

Polliwogs & Science Stars - Learn about animals that live in Antarctica. Ages 3-4: 1-2 pm; Ages 5-6: 3:454:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160. Averett Men’s Basketball vs Newport News Apprentice. 7 pm. North Campus- 434.791.5600.

December 13 & 14

Claus & Paws Pet Photo Nights. 12/13 Dogs; 12/14 Cats. (See 12/6 & 7)

December 13 (thru 21)

Holiday Art w/ Flo Class Wet-onwet technique. Weds 12/13 & 20 or Thurs 12/14 & 21. Ballou Park Annex - 434.797.8848.

December 14

Lunch & Learn - Role of VIPER in Motorsports Development in Southside. 12 pm. Institute for Advanced Learning & Research 434.766.6745.

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Holiday Door Wreaths Class. 1-2:30 or 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Recreation Center - 434.799.5216.

December 15

Women of Faith, Walking by Faith. 11 am - 1 pm. Colonade Room, Piney Forest Rd. 434.793.8140 A Celtic Yuletide. - Traditional carols, ancient airs and classic Irish Christmas stories. 8 pm. Caswell County Civic Center - 336.694.4591.

December 15 (thru 17)

The United States Kart Grand Prix. VIR - 434.822.7700.

December 16

RC Racing (See 12/2) Couples Massage Class - 2-4 pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. Book Review - Larry Aaron and Hermon Melton. Chatham Books See p.16. Ballou Park Tree Lighting Entertainment, refreshments & Santa. 4:30-5:30 pm. 434.799.5215. DSO Christmas Concert See p.16.

December 18

Book Review - Frederick Reuss. Chatham Books - See ad p.16. Averett Men’s Basketball vs Marymount. 5 pm. Averett University - 434.791.5600.

December 19

Santa Calling - Santa will be making calls to children ages 3-8 years old. (Must register by 12/18 - 12 pm) 5:308:30 pm. 434.799.5200.

December 19 & 20

Season’s Greetings - Balster’s Magic Production. Grades K-5. 10 am & 12:30 pm. Caswell County Civic Center Youth Series - 336.694.4591.

December 20

Ballou Recreation Center Open House - 2-5 pm. 434.799.5216. Club Zoom - Make English Crackers, traditional party favors made in England since 1840. Ages 7-11. 3:45-4:45pm Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

December 20 & 21

Live Nativity. 7-9 pm. Grace Design UMC - 434.836.4545.

December 21

Sky Watchers - View the three star clusters in the constellation Auriga, the stunning star fields of the Milky Way & Venus. Begins at dark, weather permitting. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

December 23

RC Racing (See 12/2)

December 27

Polliwogs & Science Stars - Learn about the fascinating animals that live in the Arctic. Ages 3-4 1-2 pm; Ages 5-6. 3:45-4:45 pm. Danville Science Center - 434.791.5160.

December 28

Learn to Stencil Class. 1-2:30 or 7-8:30 pm. Ballou Center 434.799.5216.

December 29

Snow Sports at Wintergreen - Enjoy a day of skiing, snowboarding, tubing or relaxing in the lodge. 6 am-8 pm. Outdoor Rec - 434.799.5215. COA New Year’s Eve Dance. 8 pm-12:30 am. Ballou Center 434.799.5216.

December 30

RC Racing (See 12/2)

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December 2006

Around the table

Homemade Gifts from the Kitchen by Annelle Williams

I still dream of having a Waltonlike Christmas—a holiday filled with storytelling, sharing of memories, homemade gifts, and, of course, a perfectly prepared Christmas feast. I can almost hear us saying, “Good night John-boy,” “Good night Mama,” “Good night Grandpa.” I know that’s not exactly the way it’s going to happen, but a loving family and a little time in the kitchen can make up for a lot. Now our kids are grown, the early morning breathless wonder Christmas is just a memory, but last year I did insist that we remain at the table after the evening meal and take turns reading Truman Capote’s A Christmas Memory. Our daughter-in-law, who’s been known to cry at sappy commercials, was in tears before we were half through the story. But the best part was hearing our Venezuelan-born son-in-law-to-be use his newly acquired Southern drawl as he read. I’ll know how much everyone else enjoyed it when I bring out this year’s reading material and see how many people flee. So even though our family gatherings may not exactly be Waltonlike, they are the best part of the holiday season. And with the family come thoughtful gifts from kitchens near and far. I can hardly wait for the rum cake Mama brings from friends in Galax. Another friend sends a chocolate bourbon chess pie, but refuses to share the recipe. Everyone loves caramel corn with glazed pecans and almonds, and I look forward to the marinated olives and infused olive oil—all presents straight from the kitchen. Cookies and candy, homemade soups, loaves of bread—there are many great food gifts. How about a jar of home-cooked pinto beans and a cake of cornbread? This year, don’t forget the gifts you can make right in your own kitchen. Often they’re the best gifts. They are

always appreciated and not nearly as hard to find as something in the right size and color!

Rum Cake

1 cup chopped pecans 1 pkg. butter-golden cake mix 1 pkg. vanilla instant pudding mix 1/2 cup light rum 1⁄4 cup water 1⁄2 cup corn oil 4 large eggs, beaten Hot Rum Glaze* Preheat oven to 325º. Grease and flour a bundt pan. Crumble pecans in bottom of pan. Mix cake mix, pudding mix, light rum, water and corn oil until blended. Add eggs and beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 60 minutes. Remove from oven, and while cake is still hot, pour Hot Rum Glaze over cake. Leave in pan for 30 minutes. *Hot Rum Glaze 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter 1⁄4 cup light rum 1⁄4 cup water Boil all ingredients while stirring for 3 minutes. Pour over hot cake.

Caramel Corn with Almonds and Pecans 8 qts popped popcorn 2 cups almonds 2 cups pecans 1 cup light brown sugar 1 cup (2 sticks) butter 1 tsp salt 1⁄2 cup light corn syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp baking soda

Preheat the oven to 250°. Spray two large disposable aluminum roasting pans with cooking spray. Place the popcorn and nuts in a large bowl. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, salt, syrup, and vanilla. Bring to a boil over medium heat and continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add the baking soda. The mixture will bubble up. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth. Pour the hot syrup over the popcorn mix. Stir until the popcorn is coated. Spread the coated popcorn in the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes stirring every 15 minutes. Remove pans from oven. After cooling for about 15 minutes, break the popcorn into serving pieces.

‘Tis The Season for Singing The Danville Area Choral Arts Society, under the direction of Robert Sutter, will present Christmas Through the Ages, choral music from the baroque period to contemporary, on Saturday, December 2nd, 7:30 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 538 Central Boulevard. A second concert will be performed on Saturday, December 9th, 7:30 pm at Chatham Presbyterian Church, 128 North Main Street. Both concerts will conclude with audience sing-alongs and are free. Danville Choral Arts Society members are from Danville and the surrounding areas. The group welcomes new singers to join them on Monday, January 8, 2007, to begin rehearsal for the spring session of A Celebration of Jamestown’s 400-Year Anniversary. For more information about the concerts or membership in the Danville Area Choral Arts Society contact Carolyn Smith 434.822.0977.

December 2006

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When I was a child, Christmas was the most magical day of the year. Not because of the new toys—they were fun and exciting, but not magical. And not because of all the special once-a-year goodby Kathryn Davis ies—although I certainly ate my share and even helped make some of them. As an adult, I’ve gotten away from What made December 25th magithat tradition. I don’t know if it was cal for me was the Christmas tree. my own impatience or that of my Christmas morning was the first time I children, but my husband and I try to would see it covered in ornaments and put up our tree at least 2 weeks before tinsel with the lights twinkling on every Christmas so we’ll have longer to enjoy branch. That was an awesome sight the beautiful sight. This year we’ll be that I can still picture in my mind’s eye putting up our first artificial tree, so we You see, at our house it was a can keep it up even longer. tradition for my father, a hard-working But as I reflect back on the loss Washington, D. C. firefighter, to find of that childhood magic, I wonder if a live white pine tree about a week there might be a lesson to be learned. before Christmas. He’d bring it home Perhaps, no matter how old we are, and put it in a coffee can filled with wawe can recapture a bit of that awe and ter on the front porch until Christmas wonder by thinking about “the reason Eve. Then he’d bring it inside and sefor the season,” Jesus. cure it in the tree stand just before my If we, even for just a few moments, two sisters and I went to sleep. That is, allow ourselves to go back in time to before we went to bed and spent hours that cold, starry night in Bethlehem, trying to fall asleep. when God sent to earth a newborn Of course, our oldest sister, Barbara, baby to give mankind a way to knew the truth, but my middle sister, reconnect with Himself, then maybe Diane, and I were convinced that Old harpsicord we won’t soloist have to be children to Saint Nick himself came Lynn to our Gardner, house understand why Christmas is the most not just to bring presents but also magical day of the year. to decorate our tree. Once we even thought we heard his sleigh bells in the distance. Hence, the sheer wonder in that first glance of the magically transformed Christmas tree.

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Hughes Memorial Home Being Sold At Auction by Ted Argyrakis After serving children for almost 8 decades, the Hughes Memorial Home campus on Franklin Turnpike will be sold at auction on December 8th. In 1920, John E. Hughes, a Danville tobacconist and humanitarian, wrote his will to benefit the people of Danville and Pittsylvania County. His bequest provided $250,000 to build a new hospital and $2.5 million to establish an orphanage for children living in Virginia and North Carolina. His will also provided the land on which the orphanage was to be built. Mr. Hughes died in 1922 and, as directed in the will, a corporation was formed and the initial Board of Trustees was selected from the elders and deacons of First Presbyterian Church. Shortly after Hughes’ death, the board began planning the construction and staffing of the orphanage on 340 acres of farmland just north of the City of Danville on Route 41. In 1927 the orphanage was completed and the first 8 children were enrolled. By 1931, 116 children lived at Hughes Memorial home where they raised crops and cattle and attended public school. Hughes’ will directed that the children “be properly cared for, educated and trained in useful trades and life vocations.” Many former orphans say the Home saved their lives and gave them the opportunity to have a future. Today, the main campus of the Home has 5 cottages or dormitories, a gym with a pool, a dining hall, a classroom building, and an administration building. These buildings have walls and ceilings of 16 inches of poured concrete and were designated as bomb shelters during the Cold War. The main campus also includes a director’s house, 2 staff cottages and a maintenance building. Although 8 of the buildings were completely renovated in 1999, the exteriors remain as stately as when they were designed by J.B. Heard and built by Plummer Wiseman in the 1920s. The Reverend Anthony Pollard, director of the Home until he retired, and Reverend Angus McQueen, who assumed the position, were deeply committed to the welfare of the children in their care.

December 2006 During the Home’s existence, state regulations changed resulting in most children being placed in foster homes rather than at the Hughes Memorial Home. In order to utilize the Home, a new direction had to be implemented. The Home began serving children with special needs and continued to do so until the Reverend McQueen’s retirement. In 1999 the Home was leased to Presbyterian Homes and Family Services. When the 5-year lease was not renewed in 2004, the Home became vacant. The Board continued to maintain the buildings, but were unsuccessful in locating a tenant for the Home, thus the decision was made to sell 70+/- acres of the main campus and some vacant land that fronts Franklin Turnpike and Orphanage Road. The auction will offer the property in 12 parcels, combinations of parcels, and as a whole in order to generate the highest return. Although it is no longer feasible to operate an orphanage to care for needy children as Hughes envisioned, the proceeds of the auction sale will be invested in the Hughes Home Foundation to carry out his wishes. The Foundation provides scholarships and grants, supports projects, and initiates programs to provide for the care, training, education and nurturance of needy and/ or at-risk children.

300 Years of Christmas in Chatham by Mary Lee Black

Three-hundred years of music, art, history, and great food come together for a Christmas celebration in Chatham on the first weekend in December. Main Street will be magically transformed into a Christmas Village, and visitors who stroll the area between the court house and Church Street will meet historical crafters, vendors, and musicians. Local and visiting artisans will exhibit and demonstrate the traditional home arts of knitting, quilting, spinning, and rug hooking. An on-site blacksmith will forge items for sale and a master craftsman from the Blue Ridge Mountains will explain dulcimer construction. Vendors of many seasonal products will be a part of the Christmas Village. Look for shawls, wreaths, candles, jewelry, yarn angels, pocketbooks, birdhouses, and provençal linens among the many unique items. Enjoy an art exhibit; participate in an auction of "artsy" chairs, and purchase a beautiful calendar of The Doors of Chatham. Everyone loves the fragrance of good food and there will be plenty to enjoy--- country hams, fried fish, peanuts, popcorn, gumdrop trees and black-pot cooking. Breakfast with Santa will bring an opportunity for children to pose for pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus while learning 19th century games and hearing Christmas stories from the past. Educational programs on music, tobacco, wine-making, the frontiersmen, and Native Americans

December 2006 of the region will be offered. Reenactors accompanying the carriage and bus tours of The Doors of Chatham will highlight people who have been important to the town’s formation. Historical and architectural details of many of homes on North and South Main Streets will be shared. (There might even be a surprise guest along the tour.) The historic organ at Emmanuel Episcopal Church will provide music for visitors and choral groups from Dan River and Chatham High Schools will sing. Finally, the special weekend will conclude with an EarlyAmerican Service of Lessons and Carols performed by a multi-church chorale accompanied by harpists, cellists, and violinists from the Renaissance Music Academy. Think about it---300 years into one weekend. Don’t miss a minute of it!

Friday, December 1 7:00pm: illumination of town, lantern ceremony, festival of carols at the courthouse 8:00pm: Yule log ceremony followed by cider and cookies at the1813 Clerk’s Office 8:30pm-10:00pm: Open Mic for teens at SoundCheck on Main Street

Saturday, December 2 9:00am: Breakfast with Santa at Chatham Baptist Fellowship Hall * with historic children’s games and Christmas stories; vendors, historic crafters and exhibits, regional cooking at Christmas Village 10:00am: carriage tour of North Main historic district beginning at the Town Hall* 10:30am: organ history, demonstration, and musical presentation by Dan River High Chorus at the Episcopal Church; Native Americans of Virginia by Trina Stevens at Christmas Village 11:00am: carriage tour of North Main historic district*; auction of chairs at Christmas Village; gingerbread and sleigh-making classes by girl scouts 11:30am: organ history and demonstration, musical presentation by Chatham High Chorus at Emmanuel Episcopal Church; Down in the Old Belt, Voices from the Tobacco South by Jim Crawford at Pittsylvania County Courthouse 12:00pm: carriage tour of North Main historic district* 12:30pm-2:00pm: concert by Kinney Rorrer and the New North Carolina Ramblers in the Educational and Cultural Center on Pruden Street. 1:00pm and 2:00pm: bus tour of South Main/Reid historic homes* 3:00pm: An Early American Service of Lessons and Carols at Watson Memorial Methodist Church; gingerbread and sleigh-making classes by girl scouts* *ticket required For more information call 434.432.1669.

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Christmas Comes Early to Eden by Marianne Aiken

The holiday-decorated homes of 4 North Carolina families will be on the 10th annual Christmas tour sponsored by the Eden Preservation Society on Sunday, December 3, from 2 until 5 o’clock. The Georgian-style house of Cindy and Mark Adams at 573 Glovenia Street is filled with a variety of collections showcasing local arts and artists. The ties to family are evident in the many pieces that have come from grandparents, especially the well-known former city councilman and Fieldcrest property manager Jim Robertson. The study could be named a “Jim Robertson Room,” because of his old floor-standing Zenith radio and many reminders of his prowess as a hunter. The house was built around 1915 under the direction of Karl Bishopric, who came from Canada to manage Spray Cotton Mills. The boats at the side of Hugh and Kathy McLawhorn’s home at 300 Highland Drive should prepare the visitor for the nautical theme that is evident throughout the house. Hugh grew up on the North Carolina coast and lived in Newport News, Virginia, where he acquired a love of the sea. A magnificent oversize model of a sailing ship dominates the living room, and a pilot wheel from a World War II Liberty Ship has been made into a glasscovered breakfast table. The McLawhorn home is a Colonial Revival structure built in 1938 when Marshall Field was locating its management in the Highlands area. The first occupant was Joe Lindsay, a plant manager, followed by Harold Whitcomb, who was to have a long career as CEO of Fieldcrest. Kelly and Lee Stultz’s home at 220 Ginny Road is lavishly furnished with the fruits of many years of treasure hunting at auctions and antique shops. The house was built about 10 years ago with plans from the Southern Living Historical Collection—a great compromise because Kelly wanted an old house and Lee wanted a new one. A special attraction is the Chrismons tree in the front hallway with its handmade symbolic ornaments. At 909 Church Street, Darrin and Beth Pulliam make their home with their little son Jordan in a spacious brick house. It is described in A Tale of Three Cities as a “foursquare” design, built about 1925, with neo-Classical and Colonial Revival features. Darrin is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic antique collector with a special interest in Victorian rococo furniture. The house is filled with remarkable pieces, such as the Belter sofa, and the recliner or “ fainting couch” by Alexander Roux in the living room. In the dining room, a very large English sideboard displays flow blue and Prussian china and an unusual 1870 split-level hall seat is also on display. Tickets for the entire tour are $5 and will be available at each location. For more information call 336-627-9996.

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Larry Aaron: Barefoot Boy by Russ Carter

James Bland immortalized our love for home when, in Carry Me Back to Old Virginny, he wrote, “No place on earth do I love more sincerely, than old Virginny, the state where I was born.” In that same spirit, Larry G. Aaron has captured the wonderment of the Blue Ridge Mountains in his new book Barefoot Boy: An Anthology of Blue Ridge Poems. Describing his poems Aaron says, “Barefoot Boy brings back the idyllic days of childhood in the Blue Ridge Mountains—picking up stones by the creek bank, chasing bumblebees, swinging from grapevines, gathering blackberries, and being immersed in nature’s symphony of sounds.” This book of poems explores 40 different subjects ranging from a banjo that belonged to Aaron’s granddad to an old oak tree, all bound together by memories and imageries of the Blue Ridge brought together by “modern man’s need for nature’s touch and the natural spirituality associated with a simpler life seemingly out of reach in contemporary times.” Aaron didn’t plan to write a book when he began writing his Blue Ridge poems in the early 1980s. He just wanted to write about his memories. “I had always gone to the Blue Ridge as a child,” he says. “This book is my reminiscing about the old home place, granddad playing his banjo and sharing tall tales, and how life on the farm reflects the cycles of life.” And he has succeeded. The poems in the book capture the essence of a serene mountainside in simple rhymes and heartfelt words. Even those poems with a deep, inner meaning are told through simple images that paint the whole story: Nature is a wonderful place where people can find themselves and enjoy God’s creation. Aaron found his love of stories and religion when, he says, “My mother would read Bible stories to me and I just fell in love with them.” From his love of stories, bachelor’s degrees in biology and religious education, and master’s and doctorate degrees in religious areas, Aaron, now Chairman of the Science Department at Chatham High School, has cultivated an understanding and a respect for the beauty and spirituality of nature. “There’s a natural spirituality within life,” he says. “We’ve lost touch with nature. Out in the mountains, you can get back in touch with it.” Aaron has been writing poetry since the sixth grade and has received multiple writing awards from the Virginia Press Association. Book signings by the author will be on Thursday, December 7, at the Upper Case in South Boston starting at 6:00pm; Saturday, December 9, at B. Dalton in Piedmont Mall from 1pm-3pm; Saturday, December 16, at Chatham Books from 4pm-6pm; and Saturday, December 23, at News and Novels in the Riverside Shopping Center from 1pm-3pm. For more information contact Aaron at 434.792.8695.

December 2006

Take a Break at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History by Joyce Wilburn Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays and enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet while viewing two exhibits at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History. In the Boatwright Gallery, see Danville in Black and White, an exhibit that explores the common life experiences of the black and white citizens of Danville in the 1950s and early 1960s. In many ways a simpler time, in spite of segregation, the focus in both communities was on the home, school and recreation. The atmosphere was that of a small town with bands, beauty pageants, basketball and baseball games. There was a black drum-and-bugle corps and a white drum-and-bugle corps. A local basketball star at the all-black Langtson High School went on to become a PhD, while another star from the all-white George Washington High School became mayor. The Danville All Stars and the Danville Leafs both filled baseball stadiums. Pictures and mementos from these groups and events are presented with the intent of starting a dialogue between today’s youth who live in a more integrated and urban environment and their parents and grandparents. Danville in Black and White is the third exhibit at the Museum from Black Gold, an exhibition curated by local historian, writer and performer Fred Motley. In the Schoolfield and Jennings Galleries, enjoy the Danville Art League Annual Juried Exhibition until December 20th. The Danville Art League is celebrating 26 years of bringing works by the region’s best artists to Danville for display. This is the 12th year that the exhibit is being co-sponsored by the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History. The juror for this show was artist and teacher Rosalie Day White, a teacher at the Lynchburg Academy of Fine Arts. The top winners are: first place: Bonnie Luckie, for Ethereal; second place Robert York for Fairy Road Petunia, and third place Karen Shelton for Sunkissed Figs. Lee Farley received the People’s Choice Award for Waiting for Winter. The Danville Museum is located at 975 Main Street. For more information call 434.793.5644 or visit www.danvillemuseum.org.

A Symphony Celebration To Help Others by Mary Franklin

The sights of Christmas lights bring us smiles and laughter. Add the cheerful sounds of Christmas--the crinkling of wrapping paper, the holiday greetings from friends, and most of all, the strains of familiar Christmas tunes with bells and trumpets heralding joy—and the season is upon us. A traditional part of Danville’s holiday celebration is the 60-member Danville Symphony Orchestra’s holiday concert. Under the direction of Charles G. Ellis, this year’s concert includes a variety of secular and “pops” favorites, beloved classical pieces, and sacred music. In a word, there’s something for everyone. Adeste Fideles, Silent Night, and O Little Town of Bethlehem are on the

December 2006 program along with Schubert’s Ave Maria, featuring soprano soloist, Susanne Martin. Trumpets and horns announce A Canadian Brass Christmas including The Huron Carol, I Saw Three Ships, and more. Continuing the celebration are the Festive Sounds of Hanukkah—four traditional songs of Hanukkah centering on the Miracle of the Oil. On the secular side, there’s It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, and The Polar Express to mention a few selections. And in anticipation of Mozart’s January birthday, the symphony will play one of his Three German Dances known as Mozart’s Sleigh Ride. Adding final excitement to the concert will be the rollicking samba rhythms and sounds of Christmas in Brazil portrayed in Brazilian Sleigh Bells. So for a potpourri of musical selections as varied as the contents of Santa’s bag, come receive your gift and in exchange bring a gift for the area’s needy. The DSO asks that you donate at least two non-perishable food items, or cash, to God’s Storehouse. Last year 1,737 pounds of canned goods were given. With your help, the DSO will surpass that amount this year. It’s Christmas Time will be presented in the George Washington High School auditorium on Saturday, December 16, at 8pm. There is no admission charge.

Parsons Dance Company Leaves Audience Craving For More by Joyce Wilburn

“Can I see it again?” asked a 5 year-old member of the audience as the curtain closed on The Parsons Dance Company’s November performance sponsored by the Danville Concert Association in the GWHS auditorium. If her wish could have been granted, there’s little doubt that almost everyone in the house would have joined her and returned to their seats for more superlative dancing and extraordinary choreography. The Parsons Dance Company’s performance had left the audience as breathless as the troupe’s 10 dancers. It is unusual that one hears cheers and whistles at a professional dance performance, but that was the case for this innovative second event in the DCA’s season. The evening began with dancers humorously pitted against a renegade piece of stationery in “The Envelope,” thereby creating a merry mood that was nurtured throughout the evening by the audience’s chuckles and laughs. Even while everyone’s funny bones were being tickled, they were being amazed by the dancers’ perfect techniques and their total control of every movement. In the second number, through the illusion of special lighting, it appeared that the dancers’ bodies had taken a break and only their hands were left to entertain in “Handance.” In fact, lighting played such a major role throughout the evening that it should be considered the 11th member of the company founded by choreographer David Parsons and lighting director Howell Binkley. After the intermission, the spotlight changed to a strobe light and the audience was treated to David Parson’s signature dance, which he

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choreographed for himself in 1983. By combining speed, control, and physical power, the solo dancer appeared to be either floating or running above ground, or flying. Because of the strobe magic, the audience saw the leaps but not the landings. It was perfect, and the audience responded with resounding applause, cheers, and oohs and ahs. What an evening! It was worth the price of the entire season ticket, but there is more to come. For information on future events, visit www.danvilleconcerts.com or call 434.792.9242.

Stroll by Candlelight Into Three Victorian Homes by Bill Trakas

The doors of 3 Victorian homes will open on Saturday evening, December 9, to welcome guests for a holiday buffet to benefit the Coy Garbett Preservation Fund of the Danville Historical Society. This candlelight stroll into the 19th century will begin with appetizers and wine at the J.R. Jopling House (c. 1890) at 918 Main Street. An excellent example of Second Empire style, the structure features a 3story square domed tower of French Renaissance inspiration. It was built for Joplin, who came to Danville as a partner in the hardware firm of Jones & Watts and after 1898 served as President of the Planters National Bank. Hosting this part of the evening are Susan and Steve Wilson, current owners of this imposing house. Later, heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine will fill the dining room of the Lawson-Overbey House (c.1881) at 782 Main Street. After the original owner, tobacconist R.W. Lawson, died in 1884, the Italianate-style house was sold to Mrs. Sallie Shepherd, who bequeathed the house to her grandsons. One of them, W.D., president of the Danville Lumber Company, and his wife May, remodeled the dwelling into a then-fashionable Georgian Revival house and became known for their lavish entertaining. The tradition continues under current B&B owners and hosts Cindy Castle and Danny Liles. The M.P. Jordan House, at 130 Holbrook Avenue, will feature dessert and champagne in the last stop of the holiday stroll. Built for tobacconist, bank president, and textiles investor M.P. Jordan and wife Alice Witcher Jordan, the early Queen Anne structure features Italianate detailing in its arched window openings and bracketed cornice. Mrs. Jordan helped to found Danville’s first hospital and was one of the original 12 members of the Wednesday Club. Bill and Kay Trakas, current owners, will serve as hosts. Appetizers and wine will be served from 5:30pm to7:00 pm. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine from 6:30pm to 8:30pm and dessert and champagne from 8:00pm to 9:30pm. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Tickets for the evening, which include transportation by trolley, are $25 per person and must be reserved no later than Monday, December 4, by calling Cindy Castle 434.792.5901 or Bill Trakas 434.791.5741 or mailing a check to the Danville Historical Society, P. O. Box 6, Danville, Virginia 24543.

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Choose STEMe in 2007! by Pam Divine

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Make your New Year’s resolutions early. Cure your winter doldrums by participating in a class at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. This winter IALR is offering classes focusing on STEMe: science, technology, engineering, math and entrepreneurship. This includes programs related to computers, foreign languages, and special programs just for kids. Computer courses are back by popular demand this month with How to Use Windows XP and Using Digital Cameras, and in January those interested can work with PowerPoint presentations and make their own website. John Gilstrap, Manager of Community Engagement for the Institute, is especially excited about some January classes that are

designed specifically for children. For first and second graders, Introduction to Technology will provide handson experience with computers, robots, surround sound, and video conferencing, while Math for Kids will use math in fun and common activities like cooking, banking, and keeping scores in sports. For middle and high school students the Institute is partnering with the Danville Science Center to begin an astronomy club. Also, school groups can visit with a researcher at the Institute and then have a hands-on experience at the Science Center. A first for the Institute is the class being taught by Officer Stan Moorefield of the Danville Police Department. Internet Safety for Parents and Grandparents will teach adults how to better protect their families when children use the Internet. After last fall’s great success, Spanish classes are back. For beginners and more advanced students, the Institute will have classes that teach vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar, as well as common phrases and greetings. Chinese for Beginners will teach greetings, useful expressions, and pronunciation. All classes begin in January except for How to Use Windows XP (Dec. 5) and Using Digital Cameras (Dec. 7). For more information about these classes or events and to register, visit www.ialr.org or call 434.766.6793.

Ben Rippe's

Fashion Statement Fur Forecast

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We see winter, 2006-07, as a time to rethink and take stock. The world is changing and with it consumer attitudes. Suddenly celebrity culture and a fast-paced hedonistic lifestyle hold no allure. A new mood of quiet, restrained reflection is upon us, offering the opportunity to reconsider our real needs and desires. The result? Consumers are seeking practicality and wearability over themed trends and the eclectic boho spirit of the past few seasons, especially in furs and coats. This welcomes in a return to simple classic pieces with great tailoring. For fur that means a return to the investment pieces. They are the cornerstone of classic design.

December 2006

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Lasting Thoughts… by Kim Clifton

Ten years. It’s hard to believe EVINCE has been a part of my life for ten years. So, when Emyl asked me to write this article, I had to smile that I would be in the same section that earlier featured another long timer, Larry Aaron. Seems our worlds are always colliding. Our paths cross daily at work as well as monthly in this magazine. What’s more…they crossed long before we were ever born, something I didn’t know until the day Larry called to break the news. “Kim, I’m coming over right now. I’ve found out something that you have to know about your father.” And he hung up. His tone was so alarming that I felt like throwing up. What is he going to tell me, I wondered. This man had been my hero. This man had been my role model. This man was a giant in my eyes. The thought of that image being shattered was too much to bear. My curiosity unleashed unbridled anxiety. I wanted to know, but I was afraid to know. Years passed, it seemed, until he walked in. “Sit down. What I have to say IS about your father. Actually, it concerns your father and me. There’s something you don’t know. But you should.” My knees went weak. “Oh, dear God, Larry. Please don’t tell me you called him Daddy, too.” He flashed his devilish grin and tossed an envelope across the table. It was a picture of my father taken on his first day in the Navy...flanked by Larry’s dad and another buddy. Turns out they enlisted at the same time…and what’s more…grew up together. And neither of us knew about it nor had seen the photo until his mother found it in a drawer. This may seem an odd story to tell for an anniversary piece, especially when I haven’t written about my father since his death five years ago. When I look back to when I started writing, I always think of him, since he was the reason I dared to try this in the first place. I have had lots of cheerleaders in my life…my good friends Martha, Janice, Robin and Patsy as well as my sister and my mom…and of

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course, my husband. But the one �� who gave me the courage to write for �� publication was my Dad. Advice that came as unexpected as �� Larry’s visit. �� Late one Saturday afternoon, my father stopped by my house after playing golf. Because he never dropped in, I imagined the worst. It �� took him awhile to convince me that �� nothing was wrong. �� In fact everything was fine. Or it �� could be. �� “I’ve seen you writing since you �� picked up a pencil,” he told me. “I’ve �� been thinking about this a lot. What �� I’ve decided is this…there’s a book in � �� you. I want you to find it.” � �� And with that…I gave myself the � �� permission to try. � �� I can’t imagine not writing. I’ve � �� been writing since grade school. In �� fact, there’s a box in my attic that’s � �� always been with me. A lifelong �� collection of poems, short stories and �� essays that no one has ever seen and �� God willing, no one ever will. It is so �� sealed with duct tape that you’d have � �� a better chance finding out who really �� killed JFK than what’s inside. �� I have to write. Just like I have to �� breathe. But it’s only over the last 10 �� years that anyone has regularly read �� my words. Readers have been with �� me for all of my mishaps, for all of my sorrows and for all of my celebrations. While my column has evolved, the basic premise hasn’t...a square peg’s �� struggles in a round world. I’m so grateful when people �� mention my articles to me and share similar experiences. I’m so relieved �� to know that I’m not the only one who �� has worn one black shoe and one �� blue shoe to a job interview. And I’m �� so glad to discover that others take wrinkled clothes from the dryer and Package includes: rewash them, just to avoid ironing. Dinner for 2 in the Gallery Restaurant from 7:30 - 9:30 pm I’m also so thankful to have Dancing, DJ, Party Favors in the Capital Ballroom from 9 pm - 1:00 am a friend like Larry who shares a Champagne Toast at Midnight common background of family, who Hotel Room and Breakfast for 2 in the Gallery Restaurant shares a common love for words and Monday Morning from 7 - 10:30 am �� who shares a common devotion to �� Individual Prices: this magazine. Dinner in the Gallery Restaurant from 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm My family, my friends and my $27.00 per person and Free Admission to Party readers are kindred spirits who keep �� me writing. And my hope is that I will always keep them reading. �� Admission to Party ONLY • $15 per person

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Dinner Entrées

Chateaubriand with Duchess Potatoes or 6 oz. Filet Mignon and Pecan Crusted Crab Cake or Chicken Waterloo ��

Package Tickets on Sale Now at Hotelʼs Front Desk

(Left to right) Hughes Motley, John Ryan (Kim’s Dad) and Conley Aaron (Larry’s Dad)

STRATFORD INN • 2500 RIVERSIDE DR. • 434.793.2500

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December 2006