Evince Magazine March 2016

Evince Magazine Page 1

Spend an Evening with Barbara Hall

Alisa Davis Opening Reid Street Gallery Page 14

Madam Secretary Creator and Executive Producer Page 3

March 2016

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

Page 2

Editor’s Note

We who live in the Danville area are fortunate to be surrounded by people of distinction. Flip back to the cover picture and you’ll see Chatham native Barbara Hall whose writing talent is enjoyed weekly on national TV. See page 3. Alisa Davis: Opening Reid Street Gallery on page 14 tells of someone who is using her talents and skills to make our region distinctive.

Want more examples? Read page 20, Wendell Scott: Remembering a Danvillian of Distinction. Follow that with Rebecca Webb: Creating Displays at the DPL on page 6. Writer Trena Taylor thinks Rebecca is a woman of distinction at the Danville Public Library. The Danville Life Saving Crew is recognized by Averett students as an organization of extraordinarily high quality on page 23. Spotting Exceptional Customer Service on page 8 acknowledges a team of workers who went beyond what was expected in their jobs.

You are probably a person of distinction too. Read Linda Lemery’s Reflecting Forward on page 26 to confirm or learn how to make that happen.

There is more packed into this issue of Evince: recipes for a St. Patty’s Party on page 29, original poetry on page 23, humor, fiction, reviews of a restaurant, wine, a book, and a movie. On page 28, find words of motivation and on page 11 thoughts for meditation.

To summarize—we at Evince are proud to present this magazine of distinction.

Credits: Amber Wilson: hair; Catherine Saunders: skin care and makeup; Genesis Day Spa & Salon, 695 Park Avenue, Danville. Janelle Gammon: nails; Salon One 11, 111 Sandy Court, Danville.

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March Contents Editor’s Note

THE

Spend an Evening with Barbara Hall Madam Secretary Creator and Executive Producer

by Kim Clifton

OICE OF DISTINCTION

CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks President Director of Sales & Marketing Larry Oldham (434.728.3713) larry@evincemagazine.com

4

She Said He Said / Visions of Grandeur?

by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

5

The Voice of Readers

6

Rebecca Webb / Creating Displays at the DPL

by Trena Taylor

Editor Joyce Wilburn (434.799.3160) joycewilburn@gmail.com

8

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Kristina Barkhouser

Associate Editors Larry G. Aaron (434.792.8695) larry.aaron@gmail.com

9

Second Thoughts / On with the Show by Kim Clifton

Jeanette Taylor

10 Outskirts / Fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

Contributing Writers

11 Meditation Moment by Casey Molloy 12 Food for Thought / Golden Leaf Bistro

by Stephanie Ferrugia 14 Alisa Davis / Opening Reid Street Gallery by Joyce Wilburn 15 Where Can I Find an Evince?

Business Manager Paul Seiple(1.877.638.8685) paul@evincemagazine.com

16 Calendar Clips 18 Calendar 20 Wendell Scott / Remembering a Danvillian of Distinction

by Ina Dixon

Marketing Consultants Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net Lee Vogler (434.548.5335) lee@showcasemagazine.com

21 Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West a review by Deb Henderson 23 Students Discover What Makes the DLSC an Organization of Distinction

by Dr. Susan Huckstep

Misty Brooks (434.728.2905) misty@showcasemagazine.com Art & Production Director Demont Design (Kim Demont)

Swifts / Poem by Robert Meissner

evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW

24 Book Clubbing / The Index Card Why Personal Finance Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated a review by Diane Adkins 25 What’s Happening in the Public Libraries 26 Reflecting Forward / Want to Be a Person of Distinction?

Practice, Practice, Practice!

by Linda Lemery 27 Wine Spot / A Wine for the High Notes by Dave Slayton 29 Around the Table / An Everyday Irish Meal

by Annelle Williams 30 Photo Finish Photo of Barbara Hall by Neil Kremer.

Photo of Alisa Davis by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Don’t Forget to Pick Up the March Edition of Showcase Magazine

Editorial Policies:

Your Burning Nutrition Questions Answered See page 22

COPING WITH STRESS

in an Anxiety-Driven World See page 10

Going Inside The Numbers

with a Tax Attorney

See page 20

Meet Some of Our Contributors Bernadette Moore is the Director of Marketing, Communications and Design at Piedmont Arts in Martinsville. She is a graphic designer and arts advocate with a passion for public art.

Gail Gunn is an ACN Independent Business Owner and a member of the Wednesday Club. See page 16.

Tuss Macpherson is a native of Minnesota and soon-to-be retired employee of Danville Public Schools, with many travel plans. See page 16.

Deb Henderson teaches nursing at Danville Community College. See page 21.

Deadline for submission of April stories, articles, calendar items and ads is Sunday, March 20, at 5:00 p.m.

Submit stories and articles to: joycewilburn@gmail.com.

For ad information contact a marketing consultant or the Director of Sales & Marketing listed above.

28 10 Important Things to Do by Carollyn Peerman

On the Cover:

Diane Adkins, Kristina Barkhouser, Kim Clifton, Linda Daniel, Ina Dixon, Stephanie Ferrugia, Mary Franklin, Adam Goebel, Gail Gunn, Deb Henderson, Dena Hill, Susan Huckstep, Sonja Ingram, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, Tuss Macpherson, Robert Meissner, Casey Molloy, Bernadette Moore, Larry Oldham, Carollyn Lee Peerman, Dave Slayton, Sally Stephens, Trena Taylor, Melanie Vaughan, Jim Verdini, Elizabeth Whittaker, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams

When Robert Meissner is not out exploring local parks with his beagle, the Danville native works as a chiropractic assistant, practices yoga, and watches the world from his front porch swing.

See page 23.

eVince is a monthly news magazine covering the arts, entertainment, education, economic development, and lifestyle in Danville and the surrounding areas. We print and distribute eVince free of charge due entirely to the generosity of our advertisers. In our pages appear views from across the social spectrum.

They do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, and edit all submissions and advertisements.

EVINCE MAGAZINE 753 Main St. Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541 www.evincemagazine.com © 2016 All rights reserved.

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Evince Magazine Page 3

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hatham native Barbara Hall hadn’t planned to rock the world. She’d planned to write about others who do. The James Madison University graduate originally set out to be a music critic, but instead she’s accomplished just about every goal except that one. She’s authored eleven books, written and performed four original CDs, and created and produced more television shows than you can imagine.

She’s a Renaissance woman, a term traditionally reserved for a man with such a vast assortment of talents and skills.

Then again, Barbara Hall is used to being the woman in a man’s room and so are her characters.

Take a look at Elizabeth McCord, the fictitious Madam Secretary played by actress Téa Leoni in the CBS series by the same name. She’s a retired CIA operative-turned-college professor, whose former boss is now the president of the United States and has strong-armed her into accepting the cabinet position. It’s a show about a reluctant heroine who manages to take care of the country by day and her family by night.

Then there was Hall’s Joan of Arcadia, a teenage girl who discovered herself in conversations with God, regardless if she wanted to be or not. The question posed by the show’s theme song “What if God Was One of Us” threaded each storyline with the God gently manifesting in every situation imaginable. Ironically, the show wasn’t about religion.

It wasn’t preachy, nor was it intrusive. It was about evolving into the people we were put here to be.

As executive producer on Judging Amy, Barbara Hall’s lead was a judge capable of directing families in the courtroom, while struggling to manage her own after having to move back home with her mother.

Changing the world for others and maintaining balance in your own is not an easy task, whether you’re on TV or writing for it. It’s a journey that Barbara started in Chatham and continues today living in both Los Angeles and New York City. Connecting the dots to explain the journey from small town to toast of the town is complicated.

Homegrown talent finds its roots at Chatham Elementary School.

Pictured with Barbara is her first grade teacher, Edith Smith. (Photo

by Preston Moses, former editor of Star Tribune.)

Barbara Hall receives a hug from Morgan Freeman. Hall wrote the premiere episode for season two and Freeman directed it. Photo by Lori McCreary.

Spend an Evening with

Barbara Hall Madam Secretary Creator and Executive Producer

created and currently executive produces CBS’s hit drama Madam Secretary, along with producers Morgan Freeman and Lori McCreary at Revelations Entertainment. Most recently, Barbara signed a contract with CBS Television Studios to develop new projects while continuing as executive producer for Madam Secretary. She’s been honored with a Golden Laurel from the Producers Guild of America, two Humanitas Awards, NAACP Image Award and TV Critics Association Award.

Barbara Hall is committed to family whether she’s working on projects with her own or producing shows about other people’s. She doesn’t forget what matters, spending as much time as possible with her daughter while in Brooklyn and always coming home to Virginia for a reunion meal at Thanksgiving. Her words have touched so many lives whether they come from the page of a book, from someone else’s lips on TV or from her own at a microphone. She’s done everything except what she set out to do, be a music critic.

Thank goodness she decided to change her tune.

Chances are you’re wondering why there’s no mention of M*A*S*H, Hill Street Blues, The Betty Ford Story, and The Women of Brewster Place. That’s because those accomplishments belong to her sister, Karen Hall, whose career is often confused with Barbara’s. While Karen has worked with her sister on several shows, she’s also a novelist, producer, story editor, and Emmy

• Meet the Madam Secretary Creator and Executive Producer, on Friday, March 11, at 7:00 p.m. when The Wednesday Club presents “An Evening with Barbara Hall” followed by a wine and cheese reception. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Foxglove, 1011 West Main Street, or by contacting Pattie Cairns at 434.685.7524.

by Kim Clifton Two days after graduating from college, Barbara moved to California. Her reasoning was that if she had to starve, at least she didn’t have to freeze. She got her start in television after an agent noticed her first novel. She then sold a script to Family Ties and soon was hired by Newhart as a comedy writer. Subsequently, Barbara was promoted to the show’s story editor. Preferring drama over comedy, she worked on A Year In the Life before coproducing Moonlighting and producing Chicago Hope and I’ll Fly Away.

For CBS, Barbara developed and executive produced Judging Amy, starring Amy Brenneman and Tyne Daly. During its six seasons, the show earned 46 nominations and 13 awards from the industry-the most recognizable being Emmys, Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild. She is a five-time Emmy-nominated writer and producer who

nominee in her own right and will soon be releasing the 20th anniversary edition of her first novel, Dark Debts.

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March 2016 Lord and Lady Grantham A.K.A. Larry & Dena

She said He Said

SHE SAID

by Dena Hill

Visions of Grandeur?

March is a good time for spring cleaning. When I look around at the clutter in our house and in your car, I start thinking about how we can improve our lives in a simple way.

The first thing that comes to mind is getting rid of all of the clutter that interferes with moving from room to room. Let’s start with the upstairs.

Just like Downton Abbey, the upstairs should be pristine with everything in its place. Each room should reflect our personality and give the appearance of comfort yet organization.

All items in the rooms should be a reflection of us and represent the great adventures we have experienced in our time together.

We have souvenir programs from plays and shows that we attended, gifts from our children from their travels abroad, knickknacks from the trips we have shared over the years and photos of our children and grandchildren. I like a few special books on the coffee table and books that you have published so our friends can see your accomplishments. Each room should speak highly of all the joys and laughter that we have shared over the years. Even in Sophie’s room... her toys should be in a basket showing how she, even as a pet, knows how to keep her room tidy.

We can’t do too much with downstairs because it is more of a working space with the washer and dryer and exercise equipment plus all of the outside tools like the lawn mower, leaf blower, chain saw, etc. We can work diligently to keep everything neat and in its place so that our lives will be less hectic when I need to find something. Do you agree?

HE SAID

by Larry Oldham Sounds like you want me to move downstairs. Like in Downton Abbey’s downstairs, I can be the

man servant and live the kind of peasant life I should be living while the queen lives upstairs in her land of make-believe. You can be waiting for me to venture there occasionally to visit the clean, elegant furniture, walk across the pristine floors, gaze at the beautiful paintings adorning the walls, and maybe wait for a chance for the queen to throw me a bone.

Wouldn’t it be better to move to a hotel, live like we want, and turn the house, especially the upstairs, into a shrine? We could charge people to come in and see the exquisite rooms of beauty laid out for them to adore and worship. We, too, could visit this fairy tale of magic that you have described in loving detail. I am being a bit facetious because I was always taught that a man’s house was his castle, but it didn’t have to be sterile in order for him to enjoy living in it. I thought that when I cleaned up the little man cave for the holidays that I had accomplished a lifetime of joy for you. I am starting to see that the more I do, the more is expected of me.

This reminds me of school in a lot of ways. Being married to a teacher and a cleaning fanatic at the same time is bound to change my life, which I expected. But being married to the mean old stepmother and having to play the role of Cinderfella never entered my mind when we were married. Because my main goal in life is to make you happy, I will concede to your wishes and move to the basement. But the dog gets to come with me. I don’t want her to become a neat freak and end up a bit psychotic by living up to your standards. Besides, downstairs in Downton Abbey seems like a pretty enjoyable place for me...look at all of the servants I would have to attend to my every need!

Note: Dena and Larry will probably want to attend A Tribute to Downton Abbey on March 11. See page 16 for details.

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

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The Voice of Readers To Evince writer, Annelle Williams: It is obvious that the recipes you contribute to Evince are shared with love and heartfelt stories. I love to cook from scratch and have thoroughly enjoyed all of your recipes especially the Moravian Lovefeast Buns and Moravian Sugar Cake (Around the Table, Prepare a Lovefeast at Home, November, 2015, page 29). I used these wonderful recipes at a very special time when my family was visiting Danville during Thanksgiving. It was great to be able to make them ahead of time. Annelle, you can add to your accomplishments the gift of giving from the heart. I am the one who took you at your word and asked lots of questions in emails. You were most gracious to quickly respond and inform me so that my products would be tasty. It has been said that it is better to be the giver than the receiver. But I have been blessed to be both the receiver and giver. My family and I are grateful for your expertise and numerous acts of kindness.

Sincerely. Louise Early Louise, thank you! I am so happy you are enjoying the stories and recipes and having success with them! AW To the editor: A woman came into AU’s Blount Library today with tears in her eyes. She told me she’d read my February 2016 Evince column about my mother (Reflecting Forward-Straight from the Heart, page 26) and shared that she was so touched that she’d cried over the column. Of course that touched me and so right there at the Circulation Desk, we both shed tears over the memories of having close relatives and what that means.

What a gift Evince is as a vehicle that allows people from all walks of life to connect over common themes. And what a gift it is when

people let a writer know they were touched by a story.

Linda Lemery Thanks for sharing this anecdote with us and for your stories every month. Another reader also told me how much he liked the February column.

To the editor: Thank you so much for taking the time to visit---and for such a great shout-out! (Free Admission Free Parking Free Thinking, February 2016, page 6).

Cheers! Emily Stamey, PhD Curator of Exhibitions Weatherspoon Art Museum To the editor: The article and pictures look great!

Thanks for sending the link www.evincemagazine.com.

Best, Rosemarie Fiore www.rosemariefiore.com Emily & Rosemarie: It was a pleasure to visit the beautiful Weatherspoon Art Museum (WAM) in Greensboro. I invite you to visit the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street.

Because you are members of the Weatherspoon Art Museum and it participates in the NARM reciprocal agreement, admission to the DMFAH is free.

Letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number.

Letters may be edited for space or style. Submission constitutes permission to use.

Tell us what you think.

Email your comments to joycewilburn@gmail.com or send mail to Evince Editor, 753 Main Sreet, Suite 3, Danville, VA 24541.

If you missed any of the stories mentioned, they are still available at www.evincemagazine.com.

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March 2016

Rebecca Webb

Creating Displays at the DPL

by Trena Taylor “There’s nothing scarier than my wife, fifteen dollars, and a theme,” jokes Don Webb, Rebecca Webb’s husband of 30 years, when asked about his wife’s creative ability. With limited budgets and unlimited imagination, Rebecca has the distinction of making the ordinary extraordinary. Just look around the Danville Public Library for a glimpse of her talent and see how the DPL Law Library Information Specialist often dresses up public areas with informative and decorative displays.

Part of the beauty of these creations is that, although she fashions them with whatever materials are at hand and often with virtually no budget, in her capable hands a length of ribbon, a few feathers, and the ever-present hot-glue gun come alive and showcase the imaginative, whimsical mind behind them. Rebecca credits her Aunt Velva, who made floral arrangements for the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., as her inspiration, “She taught me to work with what I have, with the space I have.” Her mentor also told Rebecca to start with a large central focal piece, to design around a theme, and to camouflage creatively.

One of Rebecca’s first design opportunities 20 year ago was

creating floral arrangements for Chinqua Penn Plantation near Reidsville, North Carolina. At the estate, she was given free rein in the rose gardens to design creations for the rooms. Rebecca says every day was something new and unexpected. “I didn’t know what was available,” she remembers, “so each day I could surprise myself a little bit.” Another unforgettable creation was a 10-foot Chinese dragon that was designed for an Americans by Choice event nearly a decade ago. “I like to go big,” Rebecca remarks, “and I like a touch of whimsy.”

Today, Rebecca creates floral arrangements for weddings and events for the City of Danville and non-profit organizations.

“I work at night and alone,” Rebecca says and quickly adds that she could not do any of it without the help and support of her family, particularly husband Don, who transports many of the larger creations. Rebecca has filled rooms in her Danville home with the materials used to design creations. “I can’t remember what I did yesterday but I can remember every piece of ribbon I have and what shade of red it is, every pearl and every pin,” says the Newport News native. And that’s another talent that can be added to the list of DPL’s woman of distinction.

Look for Rebecca’s latest displays at the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street.

Don and Rebecca Webb at a library event.

Right: Modern French Design, GCV Rose Show 2014, blue ribbon winner.

Evince Magazine Page 7

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March 2016

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

by Kristina Barkhouser

I’d like to nominate some of the fine people of Danville Utilities for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award. During the snow storm in late January, we were very thankful not to lose power; however, our heating and air system was displaying a malfunction message that had us worried that it could go out at any moment. When the heating-andair repairman came, he was working on the system when our house lost half of its power! The things we lost were critical: heat, fridge, stove, etc. I called Danville Utilities and spoke to Rhonda Randolph, who very quickly dispatched a team.

Joe Andrews and Thomas Gibbs responded and were extremely helpful in diagnosing the problem. They went above and beyond by carefully backing their lift truck into our snowy driveway. Then Mr. Andrews called in reinforcements to run new lines from the power pole to our home. Because the pole was unreachable due to snow and location, it could only be repaired by climbing the pole! Mr. Gibbs also had to be lifted in the bucket to the top of our house to work on the connections.

The transformer at the top of our street also needed some fine tuning.

The additional men who arrived on the scene were Michael Wade, Warren Martin, Sam Thompson and Donald Walker.

On top of all that, it was before noon when they arrived and the entire crew worked straight through the lunch hour. All were very kind, courteous and professional. I’m sure these fine folks don’t hear it often enough and we take electrical power for granted until it is out. I wanted to be sure to recognize them so that they realize I certainly don’t take their excellent service for granted. I appreciate it!

Evince and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce want to encourage and recognize exception customer service. When someone gives you exceptional service, please let us know. In 300 words or less, tell us what happened. Email your story to joycewilburn@gmail.com or chamber@dpchamber.org. It’s a nice way to show appreciation for a job well done. We look forward to hearing from you.

Evince Magazine Page 9 for halftime at the Super Bowl.

It was Christmas. It was our annual talent show and it only proved that few of us had any. Except now Barbara’s talent shows weekly. As creator and executive producer of CBS’s hit series, Madam Secretary, she’s gone well beyond choreographing her cousins’ dance routines. She choreographs the song and dance for the actors, directors, and all of the other hundreds of people it takes to make a series successful.

There’s an old joke that says television is called a medium because it’s not well done.

Whoever said it hasn’t seen her work. She’s chalked up five Emmy nominations and a mantelpiece full of awards.

It waxes poetic that Barbara’s first screen play was for a show called Family Ties.

Even as successful as she became, she hasn’t forgotten her own. It’s tough living in both LA and New York City, but Barbara still makes time for the Hardie family reunion each Thanksgiving. Hosted in Halifax County, we all return to the very farm where our roots were planted. A place where conversations are more likely to be about back porch screens than TV screens.

Front row: Barbara Hall, Donna Hardie Henderson, Denise Hardie Monette (deceased), Kimberly Ryan Clifton. Second Row: Karen Hall Walker, Diane Ryan Shelton, Dale Hardie Sparks. Back: Col. H. Bryant Wilbourne, USAF, Retired.

Second Thoughts

by Kim Clifton ©2016

On with the Show Look at her. The tiny cute one who looked up from her book just long enough to take a photo. And then there’s me in the black dress on the other end, plopping down about the time the camera clicked.

The one with her underwear showing. Our lives in a picture.

Barbara Hall, the prodigy, and me, the klutz...getting through life by the seat of my pants.

If you’ve read the cover story, you already know that there are a lot more differences between the two of us other than how to sit properly.

She’s made an incredible career in the entertainment industry in every way possible. I’m lucky if I can squeak out this column monthly. Other ways, though, we’re alike. We live in such different worlds now, but there was a time ours were the same. The kids you see in this picture grew up like siblings, not cousins. Every Sunday we’d pile into our grandparents’ tiny home for Sunday lunch. That meant hours in front of the stove for our grandmother-- and a nitroglycerin pill under his tongue for our grandfather. Theirs was a home full of love, but short

on toys. We had to entertain ourselves the old-fashioned way, with imagination not apps. You never heard the word text unless it was combined with the word book. There were no cells except maybe the jail one where Andy Griffith was always locking up Otis Campbell.

Once I remember Barbara in the living room front and center, passionately pantomiming Andy Kim’s Be My Baby while her cousins twirled huge purple tissue paper flowers in the background.

This was decades before anyone decided they’d be great props

This piece doesn’t begin to do her justice, so please read my cover story to get the full picture. As amazing as she is, though, she is always going to be “just Barbara” to me.

She’s the one I walked with in Chatham to buy bubble gum from Pink Winn’s service station, where Thompson’s Insurance sits today. She’s the one, if we promised to stay on the sidewalk, I went with downtown to Woodfin’s Pharmacy to get a milkshake.

For CBS, she’s a mover and a shaker. For us, she’s a cousin.

Either way, she’s good at both.

She convinced a major network to air her original shows and us to dance with paper flowers.

She made her legacy by putting on her big girl panties to beat the odds while the best I’ve done is to be immortalized in this heirloom picture showing mine.

To read more about Barbara Hall, see page 3.

Page 10

“I

March 2016

couldn’t win, and I did try...all I did was try.” -Mean Keisha

It’s not true that hard work always wins out, despite the commercials on our old Salvation Army TV. It’s not honest that a true heart always gets what it really wants. But, at 15, I wondered how come sometimes, you gotta choose between your soup and your soul; being poor separates need and want real damn quick.

Sometimes, you have to choose over what you know inside is right. I know now that it’ll break you, all those sad, quick choices. Anyway, she wasn’t dead like we thought, Mean Keisha. I found her. I’m not saying that was a good thing.

At first I was happy Bootleg Lonnie from over there on Barton Street said to his boy Darmello, in my tenth-grade English class, that he heard that the girl we were looking for was over there sometimes working in the woods behind that new Super-Mart on Traventile Lane.

He said that he was just passing the info along. “Do with it what you will,” he said. Darmello, a 19-year-old senior who was short, cocky, and cold, said all this with an arm above my head leaning on a locker a little too close. Darmello said that this information was just between us, that he was just sharing between friends. He trailed a finger from his opposite hand down my cheek and asked didn’t I want to be friends. He said, “You need me again, let me know, and I tell you, little bit.” And I wasn’t sure if he was calling me little bit or saying he would tell me a little bit.

Anyway, he kept talking and I kept half-listening, my books in front of me. I didn’t smile and I didn’t move until Darmello leaned back to let me pass.

That was eleven o’clock.

By 2:30, I had skipped lunch and Mr. Leonard’s biology block, took the Northline bus with one dollar and twenty five cents of my last two dollars and fifty-three cents. It was cold, windy at the end of February almost March, but Darmello didn’t lie. Mean Keisha was there off to the edge of the parking lot sitting on a bench, smoking a cigarette. She had a blue plastic bag and a knapsack, had on jeans, scuffed sneakers, and that purple

Outskirts fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

jacket with the pulls in the left elbow. She still looked as dirty and cold as the last time I saw her two months before, when she ditched her baby with us.

I watched her from where they kept the shopping buggies for a while. I don’t think she saw me.

I watched her until she got in this blue Honda with some man who leaned across the front seat and pushed open the passenger door instead of getting out, so he could stay warm. One minute, three maybe, until they drove away. I waited as long as I could, until I had to get back home.

That was Thursday. It was cold in March and starting to cold-rain a little bit, so I went home, ‘cause I had a home. I don’t think she saw me. I didn’t want her to. I think I knew I was going to do it then.

Anyway, looking back, we all have a choice and I made mine.

That evening when I got home, Mama was awake and moving around for the first time in a while since the last chemo. I didn’t tell her that I found Mean Keisha. I didn’t tell Mandy Blue Eyes, holding Mean Keisha’s baby, Kwon, in the living room, feeding him oatmeal at about 4 p.m. because Kwon really liked it.

Why she was spooning it into his mouth I don’t even know, because at a little over two, now almost three, he could certainly feed himself. I guess she just loved him. Okay, I know she loved him, but he wasn’t hers even though Mean Keisha left him

over two months ago. You can’t take the sun just because you’re cold and it’ll keep you warm.

So, I did it. I took Kwon from Mandy Blue Eye’s arms while she slept at 8:15 a.m. on a Saturday morning after her ten-hour shift as a clerk at an auto-parts store.

I bribed Kwon with thin Oreos dipped in peanut butter. I bribed my heart that I was doing what was right. The woman who had already lost her babies, would lose one more, and Mandy Blue Eyes didn’t stir. Mama and I lived on not with Mandy Blue Eyes, and I couldn’t let myself wonder if I... if we... would have a home after this. I was doing what was right.

I felt that “right” in my gut like a cramp.

The bus ride was harder with a child. Everything was. The older women riding to their jobs looked at me and moved their tongues or averted their eyes.

The bus was full but no one gave me a seat, so I shifted Kwon to my left hip then my right. Some men’s eyes slid around and through me without kindness.

Kwon blinked back sleep and kept reaching in my pocket for cookies. When he found none, he cried until everyone was glad we left. Finally, we arrived at that grocery store; she wasn’t there, Mean Keisha. By this time I had a fully squalling Kwon, a dime and a quarter. People looked at me like I was a wet, dirty sock on their child’s foot. I comprehended

hopelessness then, and I didn’t like it.

So I begged a cell phone call from some old lady with purple rollers and soft blue eyes who told me my baby was going to catch a cold. I could have corrected her, but didn’t. Kwon cried and cried as he was wont to do. Anyway, they came and got me, Mama’s lips a tight seal and Many Blue Eyes suddenly older and fragile-frail. She let me hold Kwon all the way home, didn’t make me put him in his car seat, went inside the house, saying over her shoulder, “You all can stay the night.”

I saw her that day I took Kwon.

I saw Mean Keisha. She stood by the edge of the woods by a red truck with a rusty bed. I had the feeling she saw me, that she had seen me all along. That knapsack, that bulging, plastic blue grocery bag, her dirty as ever, and her about a fourth of a football field away watching.

I could have yelled out to her, but I didn’t. I got into Mandy Blue Eyes’ beat-up Dodge watching Mean Keisha fade herself into the trees behind the parking lot. Mean Keisha raised her chin. No regrets, she seemed to signal as she sacrificed me. Anyway, she wasn’t dead like we thought; I found her. It wasn’t a good thing.

Evince Magazine Page 11 there is always an element of stillness to be experienced. It can be as simple as pausing to listen to the chirp of a bird or the laughter of a child. It can be the moment when you step outside and appreciate the kiss of the warm sun upon your skin or a loving hug from a friend. In those sacred times of stillness, we become fully embodied by our true nature and inner peace, without an extra ounce of effort.

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Meditation Moment

by Casey Molloy, RYT Recently, a few friends and I attended a workshop in Southern Pines, North Carolina, led by Rolf Gates, a world-renowned yoga and meditation teacher.

He is also the author of a few publications including Mediations from the Mat. I am currently reading this user-friendly book for the third time and was honored to hear his words come to life throughout the presentation.

I’ve often been inspired by those who have accomplished impressive physical feats, such as pushing their limits and defying the odds in seemingly near-death adventures. After attending the workshop, I have experienced a new level of appreciation for a contrasting concept-- stillness.

We experience varying levels of action and inaction, effort and ease, stillness and movement. It is through the constant balancing of these factors that we can achieve homeostasis and inner personal peace. A prominent concept in Gates’ teaching was, “Come to the center of your experience without an extra ounce

of effort.” Upon hearing that idea, each person will interpret it in a way that is uniquely relevant.

For me, this initiates an effort to “let go.” Whether it is just me, or typical human nature, the desire to control things seems to be a prevalent habit. Let’s be honest.

We all like to know exactly how things will play out and we often attempt to control situations to the best of our ability. The mind absolutely loves the idea of control. It replays all sorts of conversations and experiences we’ve already had, while planning and predicting what will happen in the future. What the mind forgets, however, is to experience the beauty of the present moment--the only moment that we are truly alive. Not a moment ago, and not a moment into the future, but right now. So when we sit down to spend a moment in stillness, we often find it extremely challenging.

Rather than trying to ignore our thoughts and pretend they don’t exist, perhaps we can tap into what exists beyond our thoughts, our stillness. Despite the chaos,

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Page 12

March 2016

Evince wants you to think about whether or not what you eat when you dine out is healthy. Each month, Stephanie is going to report on local menu selections that are delicious and good for you.

The music of Frank Sinatra may have been playing during my recent dinner at the Golden Leaf Bistro, but my taste buds were singing Jerry Lee Lewis’ Great Balls of Fire! Not only did I enjoy one of the best meals Southern Virginia has to offer, I also had the pleasure of bending the ear of general manager, Taylor Alvis. I wanted the scoop on the upscale restaurant with a down-to-earth flair that everyone has been talking about since it opened in 2013. Alvis touted the crowning jewel at the Golden Leaf Bistro is the experience.

And, goodness gracious, patrons are in for top-notch treatment from beginning to end at the Golden Leaf!

Alvis presented lunch and dinner menus and we analyzed each tantalizing offering. When I asked him about Golden Leaf’s signature dish, he did not hesitate: the certified Angus filet mignon. My healthy folks are raising their brows now, but hang with me a skinny minute. Beef should be eaten sparingly (no more than once a week) and if you are going to enjoy a steak, I highly recommend the wetaged Angus. Next, I was able to substitute the twice-baked potato for grilled vegetables to produce a lighter version of this restaurant favorite...at no extra charge. Alvis explained that guests may customize entrees to suit their needs and taste. In fact, the Golden Leaf team has even created an entire gluten-free menu to accommodate their customers.

It is certainly no surprise that these personal touches have landed the Golden Leaf in the number one culinary spot on Trip Advisor.

Before the main course arrived, Alvis pulled some tricks out of the kitchen that would give big city restaurants a run for their money. Our server, Jennifer, casually delivered

Food for Thought Golden Leaf Bistro

by Stephanie Ferrugia Saganaki on fire! This festive goat-and-sheep’s milk-blended cheese starter is dressed to impress and I highly recommend it. Next up was the Gentry wedge ($9), a delicious salad topped with candied pecans, dried cranberries, cucumbers and blue cheese. I typically request dressing on the side (or none at all and simply season with pepper because I really like the crunch of the greens), but I was still

reeling over the flambéed cheese and forgot. Finally, because my favorite Golden Leaf dish is the Brussels sprouts and fennel salad ($9), I asked for a side of the perfectly crisped Brussels sprouts and they were on point. This meal packed a serious punch of taste and nutrients.

Whether you drop in for some happy hour tapas ($7 average), lunch, Sunday brunch or dinner,

you can count on a goldstandard experience at the Golden Leaf Bistro. And, if you are a steak lover, you will think you have died and gone to heaven!

• Golden Leaf Bistro, 215 Craghead Street, opens daily at 11:00 a.m.; closes at 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 9:00 p.m. on Sunday.

For more info, visit www.goldenleafbistro.com.

• A wine social, The Taste of GLB, will be held on Wednesday, March 9, 6:00 p.m. to10:00 p.m. $30 Visit facebook.com or call 434.791.3191 for details.

• Ronald Williams will be signing copies of his book, Memories and Reflections of an Old Lawyer, on Thursday, March 10, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All proceeds from book purchases will be donated to the local Salvation Army. RSVP 434.793.4912.

Evince Magazine Page 13

Page 14

March 2016

A

lisa Davis brings a unique perspective to her work as director of the new Reid Street Gallery in Chatham.

“Everything I’ve done to this point has led to this,” says the woman who was born in Georgia but moved to Danville when she was ten. She then lists her credentials: a 1992 Bachelor of Arts degree in art with an emphasis in interior design from Mary Baldwin College; 16 years experience as a designer of displays and/ or buyer of products at three different retail stores; eight years of honing her skills in advertising and marketing as an account executive. “It was like I was working toward this all those years and didn’t even know it,” the Chatham resident says with a laugh while sitting behind a desk in her trendy office.

Alisa’s love of art and design merged in August 2015, when Chatham business leader, Ben Davenport, hired her to create and open an art gallery in a vacant, historic warehouse a block off Main Street. Ben explains, “We wanted to find a way to enrich the lives of Chatham residents and the surrounding communities, and felt there was a need for more interaction with the arts. My wife, Betty, and I are excited and happy about becoming a part of the arts community in this area.” Reflecting on that day six months ago when she became the Reid Street Gallery Director, Alisha quickly summarizes her journey to this point: “I started as an intern at Saunders Building Supply and after graduation from college they hired me as an interior designer. From there I went to the Broyhill Gallery at Schewel’s Furniture for 4 1⁄2 years. Next, I worked at M& M Furniture selling, designing displays, and purchasing accessories for 11 1⁄2 years.”

In the late 90s, things began to change. Alisa explains that it was a tumultuous time in the furniture industry with the introduction of imports and the ensuing problems with shipping and quality of workmanship.

Also, consumers had unreal expectations of designers —of what could be done and how quickly it could happen. “They wanted everything completed in 30 minutes like on HGTV!” she says with a touch of humor, adding, “That’s not realistic.

For it to be meaningful, design

Alisa Davis

Opening Reid Street Gallery

by Joyce Wilburn

space must be ready when the art work, pottery, wood products, jewelry and other items arrive in a few weeks. “I’ve visited galleries from Virginia to Florida scouting out art that was a good fit for us,” Alisa says, noting that she’ll soon send out a call for entries with scheduled delivery in time for the grand opening in April. Then, visitors to Reid Street Gallery will be able to purchase unique works of art created by artists and artisans from throughout the South.

Surveying the renovation in progress and envisioning what will appear over the next few weeks after the construction dust settles, Alisa comments, “For the Davenports, the heart of this project is community service.” And they know that there is no heart without art.

• The public is invited to the opening reception for Reid Street Gallery, 24 Reid Street, Chatham, on Friday, April 8, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• On Saturday, April 9, an Art Festival will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. followed by a Sip and Spatter from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Wine will be served while visitors create easy paintings to take home.

• On Sunday, April 10, a Children’s Art Workshop is planned from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• For more information, call 434.203.8062.

Macchiato, a friendly cat the color of coffee and steamed milk, has adopted Reid Street Gallery and its workers. Photos by Michelle Dalton Photography.

takes time. It’s a process.” She continues, “It was frustrating.

After awhile, I needed a breather.”

That combined with the desire to spend more time, especially weekends, with her middle-school daughter, Kathryn, led Alisa to accept a position in sales at the community newspaper, the Star Tribune.

After eight years in that position, Alisa was ready to explore other options. Acting on faith that another job would materialize, she resigned as account executive. “My last day at the paper was August 1, 2015. I was going to take time to think about what to do next,” she remembers.

That didn’t last long. Less than a week later, she became Gallery Director at Reid Street Gallery.

She explains why, “It is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to do something really different.”

The telling of her story is interrupted by a knock on the office door and the appearance of Project Manager Michael Trent with a reminder of a meeting with the coowner of the building, Betty Davenport.

There are numerous decisions the trio must make in order to convert the 1935 building into an art complex that includes a large display area with moveable walls, two light-filled rental studios for artists, a dedicated room for classes, and a community Artists can rent venue for light-filled studio space at Reid Street gatherings. The Gallery and enter through the Pruden Street door.

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Where Can I Find an Evince?

Ten thousand copies of Evince are distributed each month at over 100 locations. Find your copy at:

Riverside Drive/Piedmont Drive/Marketplace Area: Buffalo Wild Wings Checkered Pig Danview Restaurant on Danview Drive El Vallarta on Westover Drive Goodwill on Westover Drive Hibachi Grill on Executive Court IHOP on Piedmont Drive Joe & Mimma’s Karen’s Hallmark @ Danville Mall Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s URW Credit Union Western Sizzlin YMCA

Main & West Main Street River District Area American National Bank Brewed Awakening on Craghead Street Comcast on Patton Street Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History Danville Public Library on Patton Street Danville Regional Medical Center on South Main Street Danville Science Center on Craghead Street Dell’ Anno’s Pizza Kitchen on Main Street Food Lion @ Ballou Park H. W. Brown Florist (they deliver an Evince with your order) Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market on Chambers Street Rippe’s

Franklin Turnpike Area Food Lion Medo’s PCP Library @ Mt. Hermon Ruben’s Too Village Pizza

Piney Forest Road Area

ERA Holley & Gibson Realty Co. Mary’s Diner Piedmont Credit Union

Memorial Drive

Frank’s Pizza Ginger Bread House

Other

Danville Welcome Center at River Park Drive

In Chatham Area

Community Center Chatham Health Center ChathaMooCa Frank’s Pizza PCP Library on Military Drive

In South Boston

3 Women Consignment Bistro 1888 Halifax County Public Library O’ Sole Mio on Bill Tuck Hwy. South Boston Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts & History Southern Virginia Higher Education The Prizery Toots Creek Antiques Mall

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Crossroads Family Restaurant

In Martinsville

China Buffett Checkered Pig El Ranchito Elizabeth Pizza Martinsville Visitor Center The Pacifica Bay Restaurant Walsh Chicken

In Yanceyville, NC

Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store The Venice Restaurant

Page 16

March 2016

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18.

Wednesday, March 2 Save Me a Place at Forest Lawn

The Wednesday Club, 1002 Main Street, presents this play beginning at 3:45 p.m.

Two old friends, Clara (Patsi Compton) and Gertrude (Liz Goodman) meet for lunch daily to discuss their grandchildren, lament the abysmal service at the cafeteria, and reminisce Patsi Compton about the songs they once sang and the times and Liz Goodman they shared. This short play is filled with humor and wisdom as past transgressions are revealed, only to be dismissed as far less important than the friendship they have shared for 40+ years. (submitted by Tuss Macpherson)

Saturdays, March 5, 12, 19, 26 Winter Farmers’ Market

An average of 30 vendors are participating in this new venture.

Products available for sale include local beef, poultry, and pork, produce, honey, coffee, wine, candles, baked goods, eggs, soaps, knitted clothes, blankets and crafts. Everything is handmade or grown locally. The market is open 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Danville Community Market, 629 Craghead Street. For more information, call 434.797.8961. (submitted by Elizabeth Whittaker)

Tuesday, March 8

Quitting Tobacco Use

Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist Eletta Hansen presents this free program from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Ballou Recreation Center, 760 West Main Street, lower level.

Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States. It increases the risk of death from lung, colorectal, liver, kidney, pancreatic, stomach and cervical cancer. It can also contribute to stroke, blindness, coronary heart disease, pneumonia, COPD and other chronic illnesses. Hansen helps tobacco users quit by addressing underlying health conditions, environmental stress, genetics, and understandable education. This program is sponsored by the Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia/Danville in partnership with Danville Parks & Recreation. Bring your lunch. Drinks and dessert are provided through a generous private donation. Boxed lunches can be ordered in advance for $6.50. Call 434.421.3060, or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. The Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia is funded by VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

Friday, March 11

A Tribute to Downton Abbey

Experience the era of Downton Abbey when the South Boston Halifax County Museum presents a tribute to Downton from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This floating evening event will include period decor, costuming, hors d’oeuvres, cars, music, a silent auction and regional wines. A limited number of tickets are available for $25. Call 434.572.9200 or visit the Museum at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston. For more information, visit www. sbhcmuseum.org. (submitted by Linda Daniel)

Wednesday, March 16

Lost in My Mind – My Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury

The public is invited to this Wednesday Club presentation beginning at 3:45p.m. at 1002 Main Street. The presenter, Kelly Bouldin Darmofal, is the author of a memoir that tells of her personal journey from being a teen with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to being a strong advocate for those with learning and other disabilities. Her article on TBI was published in English Journal in 2005. She has strong ties to Danville: her aunt is Clara Fountain and her grandparents were the late Evelyn and Earle Garrett.

For more information, visit www.evincemagazine.com; search for August 2015, page 15 or call 434.710.7616. (submitted by Gail Gunn)

Saturday, March 19

Danville Symphony Orchestra Concert

The DSO presents its spring classical concert, Tour de Force Francais, starting at 8:00 p.m. in the George Washington High School Auditorium, 701Broad Street. This concert offers selections from the works of five French Composers including Carmen Suite by Bizet, Suite from Sylvia by Delibes, Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun by Debussy, Pavane by Ravel and Bacchanale from Samson and Dalila by Saint-Saëns. Well known as composers of music for popular operas, these artists created many of the selections in the late 1800s. (submitted by Mary Franklin)

Thursday, March 24 and Saturday, March 26 Debt Freedom Seminar

Larry Horsey from Heroes Academy, a non-profit financial school based in Richmond, will guide participants in understanding personal finance.

Horsey walked away from a successful career in the financial industry to teach about life insurance, budgeting, getting out of debt, understanding IRA and 401k and other topics. Visit www.learnmoney.com to register for this free program at the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street, on either March 24 at 6:00 p.m. or March 26 at 10:00 a.m. For more information call 434.799.5195 ext.3. (submitted by Trena Taylor)

Evince Magazine Page 17 Thursday, March 24

DHS Historical Show and Tell

Do you have an interesting antique or collection? If so, join the Danville Historical Society for a free Show and Tell program at Ballou Park Recreation Center, lower level, starting at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to bring historical objects or collections to display and discuss with the audience. It is not required that the items be Danville- related.

If you’d like to show an item, contact Dave Corp davidc522@comcast.net or 434.709.4869. No registration is required for attendance. (submitted by Sonja Ingram)

Ed Vance shares a vintage lithograph.

Upcoming

Tuesdays, April 5, 12 & 19 AU Book Discussion

Averett University sponsors informal book discussions at the Mary B. Blount Library, 344 West Main Street. Community members are encouraged to select books and lead discussions, which are open to the public and occur in one or more sessions at times convenient for each leader and group. A fund in memory of Cathy Mason Edwards (Averett College class, ‘77) provides copies of the books for participants to read and keep. Books selected for discussion don’t have to be academic; they can be just for fun. Linda Lemery will lead three meetings to discuss each novel in Suzanne Collin’s Hunger Games trilogy beginning at 4:00 p.m. April 5, The Hunger Games; April12, Catching Fire; April 19, Mockingjay. A limited number of copies will be available to participants at no charge on a first-come basis through Monday, March 28. For more info, call 434.791.5694 or email jverdini@averett.edu. (submitted by Jim Verdini)

Tuesday, April 5

Elliot Engel’s A Light History of the English Language

Professor Elliot Engel brings his classic wit and wisdom to this engaging talk, which offers a little-known history of the English language, or Engel-ish, at Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Avenue, Martinsville. In his unique style of story-telling, Engel reveals why the English language developed in such a fascinating way—from its Celtic origins to the influence of Anglo-Saxons and the invading French. Dinner begins at 6:30 pm (advance tickets required). Lecture begins at 7:30 pm. Purchase tickets by calling 276.632.3221 or online at piedmontarts.org: $30 with dinner or $15 lecture only. Cash bar available. (submitted by Bernadette Moore)

Thursday, April 7 Poker Extravaganza

Caswell Friends of the Library is hosting this event at Caswell Pines Golf Club, 2380 County Home Road in Yanceyville, North Carolina. The buffet begins at 6:00 p.m. Dealing begins at 7:00 p.m. Profits benefit the Gunn Memorial Public Library. Tickets are $100 in advance; $120 at the door. Half of the proceeds go to the prize pool. For tickets and more information call 336.514.5063. (submitted by Sally Stephens)

Saturday, April 16

Saturday after Taxes Party & Lip-Syncing Contest

Register now for this competition and start practicing. Select a song you would like to lip-sync/perform and contact the Danville Historical Society at either singram@preservationvirginia.org, scott. jones@richmond.edu or cebnicholas@gmail.com. Costumes are optional. The crowd will vote for their favorite performers. Attendees receive one free voting ticket for each paid admission ($25 or $45 per couple), but can purchase more tickets to cast additional votes for favorites. Prizes will be given. (submitted by Sonja Ingram)

Page 18

March 2016

March Calendar Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row & Holbrook Street. $8; free for children 12 & younger. www.danvillehistory.org.

434.770.1974. See page 6.

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History (DMFAH) self-guided audio-visual tours.

Pittsylvania Co. Public Library Events. Page 25.

Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West. See page 21.

Design Zone - A nontraditional, experiential approach to math, focusing on math concepts as a tool to create and invent everything from hip-hop to skate parks. Danville Science Center. www.dsc.smv.org. 434.791.5160.

Tai-Chi Day Classes - Increase strength, balance, flexibility and progress at your own pace.

M 11:15am-12:15pm or 5:456:45pm; W 3:30-4:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Let’s Dance – Learn new dances, make new friends and have loads of fun. Veteran dance instructor, Donna Robbins, teaches a variety of dances in a fun atmosphere.

A partner is not necessary.Adults 18+. Tues. 7-8:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Art with Judie – Learn how to paint with acrylic, oil or watercolor. M/TU - Times vary.

Ballou Annex. 434.799.5216.

Ladies, It’s Time to Work It Out. MW 8:30-10am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Kuumba African Dance – Providing a great workout and cultural awareness with live drumming and energetic dancing.

Kids M/TH 5:30pm; Adults M 67:30pm. 434.797.8848.

Prime Time Fitness - Low-impact aerobics workout with a mix of various fun dance steps. Tu/Th 9:30-11am. Coates Rec. Center.

434.797.8848.

Zumba Classes - Hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves create a one-of-a-kind interval training fitness program with fun routines that tone and sculpt the body while burning fat.

434.797.8848.

Art with Flo – Wet on wet technique of oil painting. Ages 18+. W 9:30-11:30am, Glenwood Community Center; 6-8pm, Ballou Annex. 434.799.5216.

African Cardio Blast - A unique workout that includes dance movements from various regions

of the African continent. W 6-7pm.

City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

African Rhythms by Nguzo Saba – Learn West African dance to live drumming. W 6-7pm. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Cardio Step Class – Uptempo, high energy class. M/W 8:15-9:15am. City Auditorium.

434.797.8848.

Baby Boomer Style Work Out – Walking, cardio activity & weight training designed for older adults. Tu/Th 9-10:30am. City Auditorium. 434.797.8848.

Ballou Jammers - Acoustic musical jamboree. Bring a stringed instrument or just listen.

TH 3-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center.

434.799.5216.

Friday Night Fun and Dance – Live music provided by the City Limits Band on the first, third and fifth Friday. The Country Pride Band plays on the second and fourth Friday of the month. Ages 50+. F 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

Through March 13

Inspiration & Intuition – An exhibition of art works by Robert York and Nancy Diciolla.

Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History – 434.793.5644.

March 1 & 2

Fast Track - 150+ exhibitors will provide information about their businesses and the services they provide. 3/1 VIP Night, 3/2 Open to the public. 4-8pm. Old Sears location, The Village of Martinsville. 276.632.6401.

March 2

Save Me a Place at Forest Lawn – Short play at The Wednesday Club. See page 16.

March 3 (thru 6)

Love, Loss, And What I Wore Patrick Henry Community College Patriot Players; a play of monologues and ensemble pieces written about women, clothes and memory. 7pm.

276.632.3221. Piedmont Arts, Martinsville. $12.

March 3

Bob Ross Technique Workshop. 9am-3:30pm Piedmont Arts - 215 Starling Ave, Martinsville. Registration deadline: March 1 noon ”North Country” At the end of this workshop, you’ll have a painting to take home. 276.632.3221 or PiedmontArts.org. Advanced

registration required. $65 Member $75 Non-member

March 4

Young Artist. 3:30pm-5pm Piedmont Arts, 215 Starling Ave, Martinsville Registration deadline March 2 noon Instructor: Pepper Martin. Ages 8-12 Each student will complete a small acrylic painting to take home.

276.632.3221 or PiedmontArts. org. $25 Member $30 Nonmember

March 5, 12, 19, 26

Winter Farmers’ Market.

See page 16.

March 5

Green Legs and Hamstrings Choose from a 5K, 10K, half or full marathon. Run as an individual or as a team. Prizes will be awarded in age and gender categories in each race. Overall winners are eligible for additional age group awards. Participants in the 5K and 10K races start at 9 a.m. half and full marathons start at 8:30 a.m. $20-$50 Ages 10+.

434.799.5150 Anglers Park

March 7

Danville by Choice and Meet Up Monday Quizzo. 6pm.

2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co., 209 Trade St. 4 rounds of invigorating trivia. Teams may have up to 4 people. Start assembling your team at 5:30 pm.

Game time starts at 6pm Virginia-North Carolina Piedmont Genealogical Society meeting. 5:30-7pm.

Public invited. Genealogy Room of the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street 434.799.5195.

March 8

Quitting Tobacco Use. See page 16.

DRMC Blood Drive – Look for the Danville Regional Medical Center’s mobile blood donor center in the parking lot of the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton St. All blood types are needed.

Ages 17+ or age 16 with parental consent. 434.799.5195 11am3pm.

March 10

Book signing by Ronald Williams. See page 12.

March 2016 S

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March 11

Meet the Madam Secretary Creator and Executive Producer. See page 3.

A Tribute to Downton Abbey.

See page 16.

Installation of the HOME sign Community reception at the corner of Main and North Union Streets. 5:30pm Four letters from the former “Home of Dan River Fabrics” sign will be displayed on the grassy corner lot. Mayor Saunders will speak followed by the opening of the River District Association office at 442 Main St. Painting + Pinot. 6pm-9pm Piedmont Arts 215 Starling Ave, Martinsville Registration deadline March 9 noon. Instructor: Pepper Martin. Bring a beverage of choice, snacks or dinner. Painting supplies and light refreshments provided. All experience levels welcome! Register. 276.632.3221 or PiedmontArts.org. Advanced registration required. $30 Member $35 Non-member.

March 11 & 12

Bullriding, Barrel Racing and Mutton Busting – 2 full days of Rodeo Entertainment!!! Great food, vendors, mechanical bull and more all in a heated indoor arena. Advance Tickets $10 / Gate $15 / Reserved $25. 7:30pm.

Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex. 434.432.8026. olddominionagfound@gmail.com Virginia Opera’s Evening of Opera and Broadway - featuring singers from the Virginia Opera.

3/11 -7:30pm, 3/12 - 11am.

The Prizery, South Boston.

434.572.8339.

March 12

Free Clinic Shamrock 5K. 9 a.m.

Community Market. Dress lucky for prizes and give-aways. www. active.com 434.799.1223 danvil lefreeclinic@comcast.net. New, scenic course along the Riverwalk Trail.

Hometown Tour: Arts Past & Present – History United/ Danville Parks & Recreation.

10am-3pm. Discover local art past and present with a look at regional artist studios, museum collections and public art around Danville. Tour will include visits to

The deadline for submitting information for the April calendar is Sunday, March 20, at 5:00 p.m.

Please send just the basic information following the format on these pages to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

Evince Magazine Page 19 renowned artist Maud Gatewood’s home and a preview tour of the Reid Street Gallery in Chatham.

(See page 14.) Preregistration required $8. 434.799.5216. Tour group bus leaves from Ballou Park, 760 West Main St. Tank Museum Radio Control Tank Battles - Watch RC tankers from all over the country participate in completion battles on the Tank Museum’s 6,000 sq. ft indoor battle field using infrared laser battle systems. 10am-4pm.

3401 U.S. Highway 29. $12 adults; $10 over 60; $10 under 12; free under 4. 434.836.5323.

Malpass Brothers - 7:30pm.

Kirby Theater, Roxboro. $20/$16/$10.

River City Brass - Free-wheeling repertoire ranges from familiar folksongs, show tunes and original compositions by today’s leading composers. 7:30pm www.

DanvilleConcert.org. Frith Fine Arts Center, Averett University, Mt. View Ave. See ad page 15.

March 16

Lost in My Mind – My Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury.

See page 16.

March 17

St. Patty’s on the Dan. 5:30-9 costume contest, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, food truck, cash bar with craft beers from 2 Witches and wine from Virginia wineries.

2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. 209 Trade St. Hosted by Danville after Hours Rotary Age 21+ Open to the public.

March 19

piano. 2:30pm. The Prizery, South Boston. 434.572.8339.

March 24 & 26

Debt Freedom Seminar.

See page 16.

DHS Historical Show and Tell.

See page 17.

March 25

Canvas and Cabernet - Swanson Studio Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main St. 6:30-9pm $35 All materials included. A local art instructor will enable the participants to paint either a sample painting or help them paint from a photograph of their choosing. Buy or bring refreshments. Register 434.793.5644..

March 29

Movement on the Riverwalk Trail. Photographer David Hoffman will share some of his favorite photos and discuss what he has witnessed on his daily walks.

Upcoming April 2 & 3

Caswell Spring Market. 8am4pm 4/2 and 1pm-4pm 4/3 Caswell County Civic Center, 536 Main Street East, Yanceyville, NC. Giant rummage sale & silent auction of new and used items from art and antiques to yard supplies. Benefits the Caswell Council for the Arts. To donate items or volunteer call 336-6944474. Tax-deductible donations accepted March 28 - March 31, 9am-4pm and April 1 9am-noon

Spring Open House – Join us for our Spring Open House! Help us kick off the new year with great music from Homeplace’s favorite artist.... Lew Taylor!

Light refreshments provided. 15pm. The Homeplace Vineyard.

434.432.9463.

The Sensational 70’s from Rock to Disco – Enjoy the Hits of the 70’s, River City Rousers, Soul Train Line Dance, Flipside the Band and more. 5:30pm.

Fraternal Order of Eagles, 58 East. 434.429.5501 or 434.791.3227.

Danville Symphony Orchestra Spring Classical Concert.

See page 16.

April 4

March 20

Opening of the Reid Street Gallery. See page 14.

Museum Exhibit – Opening reception for an exhibit of art works by Judy and Ross Arkell from Penhook Virginia; Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main St. 2:30pm Free. Public is invited.

Elegance and Romance: Rainer Trio and Friends - romantic music and songs. Bryan and Kevin Matheson are joined by Director of Opera Roanoke, tenor Scott Williamson, soprano Amy Cofield Williamson and Judith Clark on

Virginia-North Carolina Piedmont Genealogical Society meeting. Public invited.

5:30-7:00pm Genealogy Room, Danville Public Library, 511 Patton St. 434.799.5195

April 5, 12 & 19

AU Book Discussion.

See page 17.

April 5

Elliot Engel’s A Light History of the English Language.

See page 17.

April 7

Poker Extravaganza.

See page 17.

A �������� Friend to Fetch������������� Piedmont Credit Union’s Mobile App!

April 8, 9, 10 April 10

Danville Art League Spring Show – Opening reception American National Bank & Trust Company, 628 Main Street; free 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

April 15

Racin’ & Tastin’. See page 28.

April 16

Saturday after Taxes (SAT) Party & Lip-Syncing Contest.

See page 17.

We’re Your���������� Credit Union www.piedmontcu.org | (434) 797-1954

Page 20

March 2016

Wendell Scott Remembering a Danvillian of Distinction

by Ina Dixon It only takes two minutes and 48 seconds for a StoryCorps animated short film, Driven, to tell the story of Danville native, Wendell Scott. Before it premiered on February 1 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, millions had already heard this Danville legend’s story on National Public Radio’s Morning Edition and knew about Scott’s struggle to overcome prejudice and break the color barrier in NASCAR. Though Jim Crow laws divided the South in the first half of the 20th century, Scott did not allow the distinction of race to distract him from pursuing his passion. Against the odds in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, this African American was driven to succeed. Born in Danville in 1921, he began his racing career in the late 1940s, when few blacks were allowed to

participate in the sport.

Despite the challenges of rampant racism, including death threats, condescension and a lack of sponsorship, Scott continued to drive and win. As his own team sponsor, he started 495 races and finished in the top ten nearly 150 times over his decades-long racing career (His last race was in Talladega in 1973.) In 1977, the popular movie, Greased Lightning, premiered, bringing Scott’s story to a national audience.

Twenty-five years after his death in 1990, Scott was recognized for his contribution to the sport of racing, when he was the

“When it’s too tough for everybody else, it’s just right for me”

first African American inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in January, 2015.

Wendell Scott’s legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren, who have started the Wendell Scott Foundation and who have also opened a community dialogue about Scott’s important story of grit and determination. The national oral history organization, StoryCorps, realized the distinctiveness of the Wendell Scott story. In 2014 and 2015, they recorded Warrick and Frank Scott discussing their grandfather’s and father’s legacy.

That interview developed into an animated video, Driven, and

- Wendell Scott

has received over 1.5 million views on Facebook since its release in February. As this national recognition of a local story demonstrates, Wendell Scott has left Danville with an important legacy. His story should inspire us to do what we love with passion and perseverance, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

• To hear Wendell Scott’s story, visit storycorps.org/ animation/driven/) and hear the interview upon which the animation was based - storycorps.org/podcast/ storycorps-411-the-balladof-wendell-scott-reprise/.

• The original 2014 recording in Danville can also be found on History United’s YouTube channel: tinyurl. com/WendellScott.

Evince Magazine Page 21 work. But they never would have survived without the assistance of Native Americans, who provided critical information about the terrain and the routes to take, and gave the expedition support and supplies to survive their first winter.

We all remember learning in history class that Sacagawea was an Indian woman who accompanied Lewis and Clark.

This film makes it clear that that’s quite an understatement!

Sacagawea functioned as an interpreter with other Native American tribes and she played a major role in acquiring horses for the expedition at a key juncture. What I don’t remember learning in school was that she was pregnant when she joined this trek, gave birth during the journey, and just kept on trekking with a newborn.

This film shows the strength, determination, and intellectual curiosity of the explorers and the generosity of many of the

Lewis & Clark Great Journey West

Now showing at the Danville Science Center Digital Dome Theater a review by Deb Henderson If you’ve never seen a movie in the Digital Dome Theater at the Danville Science Center, Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West makes the perfect first choice. This documentary very accurately depicts their arduous expedition from Missouri through the Northwest, crossing the Rocky Mountains and ultimately reaching the Pacific Ocean.

The landscape they passed was breathtakingly beautiful, and you’ll feel like you are in the midst of it as you watch it unfold on the 40-foot digital dome screen. This National Geographic film provides very realistic re-enactment,

fantastic photography and great attention to detail. And then there is the story. Led by two young captains selected by President Jefferson, 31 men start the trek that will take more than two years. Amazingly, all but one man survived. Imagine the challenges: traveling thousands of miles mostly on foot, pushing and pulling boats up multiple rivers, climbing ice-capped mountains, encountering Native Americans, and surviving the elements-all this without maps, GPS, Sherpas, Under Armour, fleece or a North Face coat. Louis and Clark demonstrated leadership and survival skills, great determination and hard

Native Americans. It shows the diversity and richness of the American West and Northwest.

Perhaps the film’s biggest flaw is that it was too short. A very powerful story was compressed into less than an hour.

However, that length was enough to whet my appetite and it’s probably just right for visiting school children. So, overall, two thumbs up for this impressive film. And the gift shop gets excellent reviews too!

• Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West plays daily except Mondays. For show times, visit www.dsc.smv. org, call 434.791.5160, or visit 677 Craghead Street.

• Admission to the movie is $6 for adults 13-59; $5 for youth 4-12 and seniors 60+. Active military and children under three enjoy free admission. You do not have to be a DSC member to attend the movies.

Page 22

March 2016

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142 South Main S�re�t� Danville, VA 24541 434.799.2100� �anville�egional.com

Joan got the care she needed, close to home.

“They assured me every step of the way that I was going to be ok and that I could do this.� ���������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������� Danville Regional Medical Center—The Right Care, Right Here.

Evince Magazine Page 23 personnel ranges between 36 to 72 CE hours every two years.

• They have specialized equipment. DLSC has a dive truck and boats for water rescue/recovery, a Kubota UTV to respond to emergencies on the walking trail, crash trucks to respond to car accidents, advanced life support transports and other emergency response vehicles.

• They have a state-ofthe-art training center.

DLSC affiliated Danville Area Training Center is recognized and accredited by the Commonwealth of Virginia and is an American Heart Association authorized provider of CPR courses. Each year they provide training in CPR and other emergency medical procedures to our area’s teachers, business leaders and other citizens who want to be able to provide emergency medical services if needed.

Brittany Daley, Ashley Bowman, Bryan Fox, Jada Little, Brianna Shelton, Erin Gusler, Alexis Simonelli, Robert Woodall, and Shavonna Russell gather in front of the Danville Life Saving Crew Hall.

Students Discover What Makes the DLSC an

DLSC is always looking for good volunteers. To learn more, call 434.793.3525, visit www.dlsc.org or 202 Christopher Lane.

Organization of Distinction

by Dr. Susan Huckstep, Averett University Associate Professor of Communication Studies/ Journalism Take a group of dedicated, hard-working volunteers and put them in a room with college students who care. What happens next is a joy to watch. In one of the 31 service-learning courses offered at Averett University, public relations students are collaborating with members of the Danville Life Saving Crew (DLSC) to bring attention to the important work these volunteers do in the community. The students are tweeting, creating Facebook posts, writing articles, pitching stories to the media, and re-vamping a website. They are using what they learn in class to provide the valuable public relations support nonprofits need but often can’t afford. Best of all, the students are working with energy and enthusiasm to aid their community partner.

These students see Danville through the fresh eyes of young

people who are new to our community and who are, in some cases, having their first significant contact with a volunteer-driven organization. Here is what these Averett students think makes their community partner, DLSC, distinctive and worthy of this community’s support.

• They are there when you need them. DLSC never closes. The volunteers are always on call, often leaving their own families to care for yours. Last year they responded to 6,431 calls for help.

• They are highly trained.

Whether it’s training for water rescues, refreshing their CPR skills, or learning how to deal with traumatic brain injuries, Crew members are constantly training to better serve this community. The typical continuing education requirement for all EMS

Swifts Robert Meissner

Cartwheeling chimney swifts slow on the wing—sun fades to eventide—soft whispering.

Page 24

March 2016

Book Clubbing A Review by Diane Adkins

The Index Card Why Personal Finance Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

by Harold Pollack & Helaine Olen

Do you remember the book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten? It came out in the 1980s and distilled author Robert Fulghum’s life creed down to about 15 simple statements-things like: Clean Up Your Own Mess. Say You’re Sorry When You Hurt Someone. Share Everything. It was simple, it was true, and the world would be a better place if we all lived that way. The Index Card reminds me of that book.

Not that long ago, Harold Pollack, a professor at the University of Chicago, was conducting a live interview with Helaine Olen, an award-winning financial journalist and author, in which he stated that the financial industry’s most basic dilemma is this: The best advice fits on a 3×5 index card and is available for free at the library.

(Yes! Yes it is!) Though this was Pollack’s offhand remark, listeners immediately starting asking for the card. So he had to create it.

Maybe you saw that card. It went viral; I think I saw it first on Facebook. Or it could have been Twitter. At any rate, it had a social media moment and you can still find it quite easily. Out of that hand-scrawled index card grew this book. As Pollack said in an interview, he could tell you that to win a tennis match, you need to hit the ball low---but then you’d need to know how to do that. This book tells you how to follow through with the advice on the index card.

Pollack and Olen’s rules are very similar to things that are said by other financial advisors—Dave Ramsey, for example, or Jane Bryant Quinn: Set aside an emergency fund. Save ten to twenty percent of your income. Pay your credit card in full every month.

Max out your tax-advantaged savings accounts. Their plan isn’t rocket science. It’s genius is its simplicity. Many people become so confused by the conflicting voices in personal finance that they shut down and make no decisions at all. The Index Card is a practical solution to that immobility. The outcome the authors want is that the reader comes away armed with the tools and the confidence needed to make smart money decisions.

There are cable channels dedicated entirely to financial decision making, and that cacophony can deafen us to the inner voice of common sense. If you are stressed by your own financial situation and if you are looking for a road map to financial security that isn’t confusing to follow, The Index Card will provide you with simple guidance that works. You can read it in a couple of hours. Why not get started?

Diane S. Adkins is the recently retired Director of the Pittsylvania County Public Library System. The library will be observing Money Smart Week April 23-30 with plenty of help for your financial life.

Evince Magazine Page 25 Special Events:

• Winter Reading Program: March 2, 3:30-4:30 pm, Chatham.

Children from birth to 12 are invited to celebrate with a Dr. Seuss Birthday Party. Come as your favorite Seuss character if you wish.

• Winter Reading Finale: March 2, 4:00 pm., Gretna. Join the Cat in the Hat for this fun story time, craft, and awards finale.

• Teen Tech Week: March 6-12.

Brosville, play with robots, Sphero and Ozobot every afternoon. At Chatham, check out the “maker space” in the meeting room from 5-7 pm. on March 7-9. Crafts, games, construction and art projects, including Keva plank towers, origami, color drip paintings, and more.

• Teen Tech Night: March 10, 5:00-7:30 pm, Brosville. Digital downloads. Bring in your MP3 player, phone, or tablet to find out about the free content you can borrow from the library.

• Spring Open Craft Week: March 28-April 1, Brosville, all day.

Stop by the meeting room for a make-and-take craft. Spring Break at the Library: March 28-April 1. Various activities; check your branch to see what’s planned.

Reading/Writing/ Learning:

• Wednesdays for Wees: March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 10:00 am, Chatham, Brosville, Gretna, Mt. Hermon. Ages newborn to 5.

• Mother Goose on the Loose: March 4, 11, 18, and 25 at 10:30 am, Mt. Hermon. March 7, 14, 21, and 28, 11:00 am, Chatham. An award-winning early literacy class for children from birth to age three with parents or caregivers.

• Hermon’s Stories: March 24, 6:30 pm, Mt. Hermon. Our lovable mascot Hermon will be sharing some of his favorite stories.

• Read to Maggie: March 9, 4:00-4:45 pm, Chatham.

Children can practice their reading skills by reading aloud to Maggie, a therapy dog.

• Homeschool Connection: March 1 & 15, 2:00 pm., Gretna.

Learn what the library has to offer homeschoolers and network with other parents while children enjoy crafts, activities, and special presentations. Sign up 434.656.2579.

• Leprechaun Craft: March 17, 3:30 pm, Gretna. For ages 5+.

• STEAM: Friday, March 4, 10:00 am, Brosville. Come play with Sphero and Ozobot. All ages.

Saturday, March 5, 11:00am 1:00 pm, Chatham. Ages 8-14.

• Computer One-on-One?: Tutorials every Tuesday, 11:00 am -noon, and every Thursday, 2:00-3:00 pm, Chatham. Please register. Walk-in one-on-one sessions are available every Wednesday evening except March 9 from 6:00-7:00 pm., Chatham.

• What is Overdrive??: March 3, 5:30 -7:30 pm; March 9, 3:00 – 5:00 pm; March 14 and March 25, 10:00 am-noon, Brosville. It’s a digital eBook service offered through the library. Come and learn how you can borrow eBooks and audiobooks on your mobile

What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania Co. and Danville Public Libraries device or computer. Sign up is preferred.

• Computer Class: March 15, 4:00 – 5:30 pm, Brosville. Learn basics of using a computer and how to search for information online. Space is limited. Sign up in advance.

Book Discussions & Writing:

• Brown Bag Book Reviews: March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 12-1:00 pm, Chatham. Reviewers include Bill Leftwich, Diane Adkins, Hal Thornton, Kenyon Scott, Rick Dixon.

• Second Thursday Discussion Group: March 10, 4:00 – 5:30 pm., Chatham. Open to adults.

Food, Nutrition, Fitness and Health Programs:

• Group Fitness: March 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:00 am, Gretna; March 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 10:00 am, Gretna. Use exercise/walking DVDs. Ages 18+ Free.

• Second Tuesday Recipe Club: March 8, 5:30 pm, Gretna. Irish Recipes. Check out a book from the library’s collection and make a dish from the book. Bring your dish, along with the recipe to share with others. Sign up is required.

Art & Craft Programs:

• Open Needlework: March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 10:00 am, Brosville.

Knitting, embroidery, crochet— come and work on your projects.

• Crochet Instruction: March 1, 10:00 am, Brosville. Come learn to crochet the Tunisian stitch or bring questions to be answered. Don’t have crochet materials and want to learn? We’ll provide materials to get you started.

• Re-use it Tuesday Craft Workshop: March 1, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. Digging Bunny Easter Craft.

Free. Register.

• Loom Knitting: March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 11:30 am, Brosville.

Learn open braid and asymmetrical stitches on the loom.

• Knitting Group: March 7 and 21, 6:30 pm, Mt. Hermon. All skill levels welcomed.

• Make & Take Craft: March 8, 3:004:45 pm, Chatham. Make it here or take it home.

• Second Saturday Quilt Club: March 12, 10:00-noon, History Research Center and Library.

• Art Class: March 22 and 29, 4:004:45 pm, Chatham. Ages 8-16.

Register.

• Self-Watering Seed Starters: March 24, 5:00-6:00 pm, Chatham.

All supplies provided.

• Craft Night: March 24, 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Brosville. Wreath making. $10 fee for materials or bring your own project.

Game Programs & Activities:

• Coffee and Cards: March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 10am- noon, Chatham.

• Back to Basics (board games & coloring): March 12, 10am-1:30 pm, Mt. Hermon. Playing board games can enhance concentration and lower blood pressure. Coloring is a relaxing way to reduce stress. All ages.

• Book Bingo: March 17, 6-7:30pm and March 22, 1-2pm, Brosville.

Join us as we play bingo for books and other prizes. All ages.

• Minecraft @ Mt Hermon: March 19, 11am-1pm Mt. Hermon.

Minecraft-oriented activities and light snacks. Ages 8-14.

• Bingo for Books: March 22, 5:00 pm, Gretna. Family fun. Prizes include books and other items from the book sale table. Free.

• LEGO Play: March 31, 4:004:45 pm, Chatham

Movies:

• Movie Matinee: March 29, 2:30 p.m., Brosville. The Good Dinosaur.

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. For more information, contact Gretna Library, 207 A Coffey Street, 434.656.2579; Mt. Hermon Library, 2725 Franklin Turnpike, 434.835.0326; History Research Center and Library, 340 Whitehead Street, Chatham; 434.432.8931; PCP Main Library, 24 Military Drive, Chatham, 434.432.3271; Brosville Library, 11948 Martinsville Highway 434.685.1285 or www.pcplib.org.

Danville Public Libraries • Mondays and Tuesdays - AARP Tax-Aide offers free, individualized tax preparation for low- to moderate-income taxpayers. Bring your important documents. 10am2pm in auditorium.

• March 1 & March 5 Introduction to Genealogical Research: This class will introduce websites and databases that will aid in family history research. Contact Danielle to register. 11am-2pm in Computer Lab. • March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Crafters Corner: Do you enjoy the art of crochet, knitting, sewing, scrapbooking, quilting or other crafts? Bring your supplies and learn techniques and designs, or share your own skills. Join the creative fun as we work on individual, group, and service projects. Light refreshments will be provided. 4-6pm in Genealogy Room. All Ages.

• March 3 - Navigating Ancestry. com: Do you want to access ancestry records without paying a fee? This class will help you navigate the free library edition of Ancestry. com. Contact Danielle to register.

11am-2pm in Computer Lab. • March 7, 14, 21, 28 - African American Voices Book Club: Whether you are an avid reader and/or author, come and share your thoughts on your favorite African American reads. 4-5pm in Genealogy Room. All Ages.

• March 8 - Finding Your African American Ancestors: Contact Danielle to register. 11am-2pm.

• March 8 - Yack & Snack Book Club: Talk about what you’re reading and enjoy a snack with fellow bibliophiles. First Friday of each month. 11am-12pm in Genealogy Room.

• March 10 - Senior Movie Day: Ricki and the Flash (PG-13) A

musician who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom returns home, looking to make things right with her family.

11am-1pm in Auditorium.

• March 10 - Introduction to FindAGrave.com: This class will introduce an online database with thousands of cemetery records.

Bring in those obituaries and help expand the FindAGrave.com database by submitting your entries. Contact Danielle to register. 11am-2pm, Computer Lab. • March 15 - Utilizing Court Records to Guide Genealogical Research: Contact Danielle to register. 11am-1pm, Computer Lab. • March 16 - Crazy for Coloring: Enjoy the latest trend in relaxation and stress reduction for adults.

Teens are also welcome. Supplies provided. 4-5pm, Genealogy Room.

• March 17 - Intermediate Genealogy: Creating a Family History Website Learn how to broaden your genealogical research by making it available to everyone online. Prerequisite: Must have completed previous Introduction to Genealogy course and must have intermediate computer and Internet skills. Contact Danielle to register.

11am-2pm in Computer Lab. • March 17 - Bingo for Adults: Light refreshments provided.

11am-12pm. Auditorium. Ages 18+ • March 19 - Writers’ Group: Whether you’re looking for ideas, already working on a piece, or putting the final touches on a finished work, come to the library to develop and explore your craft.

10am-12pm, Genealogy Room.

Light refreshments provided.

For more information, call 434.799.5195 ext 3. All programs are free at the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street.

Page 26

March 2016

W

hat makes people stand out? Is it friendliness?

One woman I know is a standout in the way she greets people, the warm tone in her voice, the bright focus of her eyes, the body language that conveys that she’s engaged and paying attention. The people who cross her path have the sense that they matter to her, that she is intensely interested in hearing what they have to say.

former boss who involved me in volunteering for a professional organization for more than a decade. This resulted in some of the most challenging situations and the greatest professional growth I’ve ever experienced. She knew that would happen. She’s the best people manager I’ve ever seen.

Is it courage? Or belief in one’s self? You know people like this-people who may not be on the front lines or hold high-visibility positions, but who operate with distinction. Ask yourself these questions: Are they absolutely superb at something? What is it? Are they passionate about it? Is passion the common theme between these people who operate with distinction?

Can it be as simple as that?

Is it brain power? How is that conveyed? By a penetrating look that’s followed by a few words that cut to the core of an issue? By a written report that’s so distilled and focused that it’s elegant in its simplicity?

By a pause before speaking, conveying that the person is processing the conversation and what it means at multiple levels? A friend of ours is like this. When he speaks, people listen, and the memory sticks with the listeners.

Every person on this planet is absolutely superb at something.

A person might be an inspired cook; great at finding resources to help others; outstanding with numbers; amazing at entertaining; terrific at teaching; or excellent at any number of other things. I think all of us have the capacity to excel, to live our dreams. We have to know what those dreams are; overcome the fears that serve as high barriers to achieving our dreams; focus on our purpose; practice, practice, practice; and move ourselves toward our goal. Achieving distinction means standing out from the pack.

Is it humor? A long-time friend embraces life, but repeated disasters seem to dog his footsteps. However, the rains in his life also seem to nurture the flowers in his life (and his disaster stories are hilarious).

Is it the way these people carry themselves, standing up straight with confidence? Do they walk like they talk, as if they know where they’re going or where they want to go in the future? I know two people like this. They have presence and it comes from inside and commands the room when they walk in.

Is it competence? Do they know what they’re doing and move forward with doing it without fanfare? Are they organized?

Are they prudent with an organization’s resources? Are they focused and honest? A graduate school friend shares stories about her teaching that, for me, showcase her amazing skills.

Is it leadership? Do they know how to manage people, projects, teams? Are they thorough? Do they know how to plan for a successful outcome? I learned an enormous amount from a

Focused practice takes dedicated time and energy but pays off in future choices.

Reflecting Forward Want to Be a Person of Distinction?

Practice, Practice, Practice!

by Linda Lemery

In his book Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm Gladwell talks about the 10,000 hour rule. Gladwell shares that it takes about 10,000 hours of practice to achieve a level of excellence that makes someone stand out from the pack. That practice has to be focused, consistent, and prolonged.

I think we are all capable of greatness in some form. We don’t have to lead from the front lines. The trick is to discover and define our passions, set a goal, focus, practice like crazy, move toward that goal, and above all, believe in ourselves.

About the Author: When she’s not flying a search grid around the word distinction, Linda Lemery (llemery@averett.edu) works in Danville, VA as Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library. She welcomes your comments.

Evince Magazine Page 27 Ask wine enthusiasts about their favorite Italian wine and they’ll probably say, Brunello di Montalcino. Even the name is fun to say, like a cheerful melody that bounces off your tongue. I think it could easily be sung loudly in an operatic style. (This is probably best done while alone in the car.) Not only is it a source of joy for the ears, it is a delight for the palate.

Our wine prima donna hails from the town of Montalcino about 75 miles south of Florence in the Tuscan wine region of Italy. The Sangiovese grape is the only grape allowed by law to be in this distinctive, excellent wine. Kerin O’Keefe writes in her book, Brunello di Montalcino – Understanding and Appreciating One of Italy’s Greatest Wines: “Though a grape with attitude—stubborn, temperamental, and difficult— under the right conditions... can yield... world-class wines.”

Being difficult is almost expected when working with such a distinguished prima donna as

Brunello. During pressing, this wine goes through an extended period of grape-juice and grape-skin contact, allowing much color and flavor to be given to our soprano.

This prima donna has even experienced drama. In 2008, it was reported that some Brunello producers were secretly and illegally adding grapes other than Sangiovese. Vineyards were quarantined and thousands of bottles were seized by investigators. Many wineries and individuals are believed to have paid undisclosed fines.

The Wine Spot

A Wine for the High Notes

by Dave Slayton

a member of the Master Court of Sommeliers

Is there a relationship between wine and music?

I believe so. One of the most well-known opera songs, Let’s Drink from the Joyful Chalices in Verdi’s La Traviata, is sung at a late night party when Alfredo is attempting to woo Violetta. Don’t like opera?

Perhaps you just need the right accompaniment-- like a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino. Bravo!

Page 28

March 2016 7. Focus on what you have in common with other people not what sets you apart. Step out of your comfort zone; expand and grow. For one Sunday, change churches and meet people who are different from you.

8. Select a verse from the Bible or a favorite saying that expresses in a nutshell the essence of your philosophy.

What Bible verse most deeply impresses you? Reading God’s Word is like looking into a mirror. A mirror reflects back your image; you can make changes accordingly.

9. Bake a loaf of bread from scratch. Knead it with your own hands. Watch the bread as it rises. Bake it. Thank God each day for your daily bread.

10 Important Things to Do

by Carollyn Peerman What practical things can you do to live life to the fullest? What are the 10 most important things that you would like to accomplish before you die? Here are 10 suggestions of things to do that will make you a person of distinction.

1. Pass on to someone of the next generation a valuable possession that you think of as part of your life’s legacy.

It could be something of sentimental value that is full of memories. If you had to suddenly leave your home in an emergency situation, what is the first thing that you would reach for?

2. Search for a long-lost friend.

You invested time in building your friendships. They are your most valuable possessions as time goes by. Reconnect with them. Share favorite memories. You may never know what need you could meet in someone else’s life.

3. Spend time each day totally focused on spiritual values.

Meditate on the brevity of life.

Realign your priorities in light of eternity.

4. Reach out and touch someone. Hugs are free but they are priceless. Every individual is a unique person.

Have you taken a look at how you feel about different groups of people? Single mothers, immigrants, and the physically handicapped all need your attention.

5. Dance vigorously with wild abandon. Responding physically to music stimulates you emotionally and mentally.

Why not develop the habit of learning a new dance step? Whether it is ballroom dancing or square dancing, move your body to the beat of the music you enjoy the most.

6. Pour your energies into a new activity and don’t retire from life. After a lifetime of learning, share your experience by mentoring a child. Give a young mother a break from an active toddler.

Volunteer to focus on someone else’s needs at Big Brothers Big Sisters.

10. Refuse to act your age. After all, age is just a number.

Living long and well has great benefits. Make the most of opportunities ahead.

Evince Magazine Page 29

Paula Deen’s Irish Soda Bread & Sausage Stew

An Everyday Irish Meal

by Annelle Williams

Spring, we’re looking for you! We’ve had a good dose of winter and now we’re counting on the promise of warmer weather. They say the best cure for a hard winter is a warm spring, and I’m ready, but March weather has a history of being unpredictable. We can have a harsh last blast, followed by such beautiful weather that the bulbs and buds can’t help themselves and begin to pop with color. I have a vivid memory of an early Easter, cold, cold weather and having to cover my new Easter dress with my old winter coat that was already too short and ready to be handed down. The five-block trip to church was long and very quiet.

DOGWOOD C

OLLECTION

But there’s more to March than the temperature. There’s the food and how it best pairs with either the cold blasts or the warm spring air. Once a year we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a traditional Irish meal, no matter the weather. This year we’re having Dublin Coddle (Sausage and Potato Stew) with Irish Soda Bread. It’s a meal that’s friendly to all ages and appetites. Grated Dubliner cheese and fresh rosemary give the bread a lot of flavor. I think these recipes are so good, you’ll be pulling them out at other times during the year. Enjoy!!

The Dogwood Collection features bedroom, dining room, living room and occasional pieces. This lovely collection is sold locally, and exclusively, at M & M Furniture and discounted 45% off of retail list prices every day.

“Much More For Your Money!”

&M M FURNITURE

Dublin Coddle (Irish Bacon, Sausage and Potato Stew) (adapted from Rice and Roti blog) 1⁄2 lb. bacon slices, cut in half lengthwise, and then again widthwise 1 lb. pork sausage links, sliced into thirds (I also added 2 chicken hotdogs, cut into thirds, for younger diners.)

2 onions, thinly sliced 3 leeks, washed and sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 T chopped fresh thyme 1⁄2 cup chopped fresh parsley 1 1⁄2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 cups chicken broth (or ham broth)

Preheat oven to 350O. Brown bacon in large Dutch oven until just before crisp.

Remove and set aside. Brown sausage in bacon drippings. Remove sausage and add to bacon, leaving only enough drippings in pan to sauté onions. Add onions, stirring until soft; add leeks and garlic. Stir to combine. Cook for a couple more minutes. Add sausages and bacon to stew. Add thyme and parsley and half the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add remaining potatoes and salt and pepper again. Add chicken broth; cover; bring to boil; transfer to oven for 30-35 minutes, until potatoes are tender. Serve with Irish Soda Bread.

Irish Soda Bread

(adapted from Foodness Gracious blog) 4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 1⁄2 tsp. cream of tartar 1 tsp. salt 1⁄2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

3 T chopped fresh rosemary 2 cups buttermilk 1 large egg 1 (7 oz.) pack Dubliner cheese, grated (or any sharp cheddar)

Preheat oven to 425O. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, pepper and fresh rosemary. Add grated cheese and stir with fork to combine.

In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and large egg; add to flour mixture and stir until combined into sticky dough. Turn out onto well-floured counter and knead a few times to bring dough together. Divide into two loaves and place on flour-dusted cookie sheet. With kitchen shears or serrated knife, cut X into tops of loaves. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Let bread rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Questions or comments?

Email me: AnnelleWilliams@comcast.net I look forward to hearing from you!

530 Monroe Street Downtown Danville • 434.793.2911 www.mandmfurnitureco.com www.facebook.com/MMFurnitureCo

Page 30

March 2016

Photo Finish On the first Saturday in February, the History United/Danville Parks & Recreation Hometown Tour bus headed 30 miles north of Danville on Route 29 to a small town with a big history—Gretna, Virginia. Ina Dixon, Danville Regional Foundation Fellow with History United, captured the day’s activities in these pictures.

The next tour is planned for Saturday, March 12, Tour of the Arts: Past & Present. To discover the history and future of the local arts scene and register for this tour that will explore regional artist studios, museum collections and public art, call 434.799.5216. Cost is $8. Visit www.historyunited.org. (photos submitted by Ina Dixon)

Gretna celebrates its train history with signage that greets visitors on Route 29 Business. (photo courtesy of Joel Shelton)

The railroad played a major role in Gretna’s history. This historical marker has been placed where the old train depot once stood.

The first stop on the tour was Gretna’s Centra Medical Center, a new, state-of-the-art facility offering comprehensive medical care.

Local historian and Gretna tour guide, Joel Shelton, talks to the group about Gretna’s beginnings after the construction of the Virginia Midland Railroad in 1876. The town had two names--Franklin Junction and Elba – before finally settling on Gretna in 1916.

The Hometown Tour group poses for a picture at the park named in honor of Gretna’s historic ties to the railroad: Gaynelle Wolford, Fred Ingram, Carol Ingram, Justin Meeks, Jonathon DeMott, Vida Wilkes, Don Morley, Susan Morley, Joel Shelton, Jane Edmonds, Ann Sanford, and Julia Ramsey.

Gretna’s downtown has much to offer in arts and entertainment including the renovated Gretna Theatre, 107 North Main Street, that screens first-run films. For upcoming shows and other events, visit: thegretnatheatre.webs.com

Deborah Moran, President of Gretna Little Theatre, leads the group through the theatre and shows them the latest renovations.

Gretna Little Theatre, 101 South Main Street, provides more entertainment for the area through theatre performances and other cultural events such as a local author book signing on Saturday, March 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

For more information, visit www.performgretna.com.

Evince Magazine Page 31 Chathamite Don Morley contemplates a meal at the historic J.T.’s at the Lavalette, a steak and seafood restaurant.

A happy reunion between Arlene Creasy (center), who led the group tour of the Lavalette House, and two other Gretnans who joined the tour: Carol Ingram (left) and Gaynelle Wolford (right).

A well-stocked bar and freshly set tables are ready for diners to enjoy a delicious meal at J.T.’s. Call 434.656.2275 for hours and dinner reservations and visit www.facebook.com.

This picture from Facebook.com shows J.T.’s at the Lavalette, 415 South Main Street, in Gretna, during warmer months.

J.T’s at the Lavalette offers fine dining and a rich history dating back to the 1880s, when Thomas Claiborne Creasy began construction of the house after his marriage to Eliza Lavalette Elliot. The house is named for T.C. Creasy’s only unmarried granddaughter, Lally, which is short for Lavalette.

During segregation, blacks and whites attended separate schools.

This historical marker by the old Northside High School pays homage to the memories of those schools that were closed or altered after integration in the 1960s.

Ann Sanford, who joined the Gretna tour, poses outside her alma mater, Northside High School. She graduated from the segregated school in 1967 and worked as an educator in Danville.

The last stop on the tour was Gretna’s historic Yates Tavern.

This distinctive building was once a resting stop during the Revolutionary War era.

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March 2016