Evince Magazine July 2015 by Andrew Brooks Media Group

Evince Magazine Page 1

Gary Beyer

Helping Area Travelers for 40 Years Page 15

Barbara Croyle

Learning about Danville Page 3

July 2015

Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography

Page 2

Editor’s Note

Planning a trip and going on vacation isn’t difficult. After all, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Sometimes, however, taking that first step is easier said than done. That’s where Gary Beyer, pictured on the cover, can be of assistance. Read page 15, Helping Area Travelers for 40 Years. For delightful accounts of people who took the famous Chinese quotation literally and walked to their destinations hundreds of miles away, read the reviews in Book Clubbing. On page 24, Diane Adkins recommends The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessey. Carollyn Peerman suggests Walking to Vermont: from Times Square into the Green Mountains--a Homeward Adventure. If you’d like ideas for a local excursion, look at Von Wellington’s Photo Finish (page 30). It’s a pictorial guide to touring Danville. I bet you’ll find something you’ve never noticed before now. Need more ideas for exploring? Read Experience a Day in Danville on page 25. When the touring is complete, relax at a picnic on the patio. The details are in the story on page 3, Barbara Croyle: Learning about Danville. Whether your vacation takes you around town or thousands of miles away, it’s important to frequently move out of your comfort zone. It will change old thought patterns and habits and make you a better person—something Ciji Moore suggests in Think Fresh on page 12. Enjoy!

Credits: Hair: Amber Wilson; Skin Care & Makeup: Catherine Saunders; Nails: Janelle Gammon; Genesis Day Spa & Salon, 695 Park Avenue, Danville

July Contents

Editor’s Note

Barbara Croyle / Learning about Danville by Joyce Wilburn

She Said He Said Summertime and the Living Isn’t Easy by Dena Hill & Larry Oldham

The Voice of Readers

Think Before You Speak by Carollyn Peerman

Editor Joyce Wilburn (434.799.3160) joycewilburn@gmail.com

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service by Cheryl Doss

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

Second Thoughts / Bottoms Up by Kim Clifton

President Director of Sales & Marketing Larry Oldham (434.728.3713) larry@evincemagazine.com

12 Think Fresh by Ciji Moore 15 Gary Beyer / Helping Area Travelers for 40 Years by Joyce Wilburn 16 Calendar Clips 18 Calendar 20 Peggy’s Little Red Wagon by Peggy Scantlebury 23 What’s Happening in the PCP Libraries 24 Book Clubbing Walking to Vermont: from Times Square into the Green Mountains -- a Homeward Adventure a review by Carollyn Peerman The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessey a review by Diane Adkins 25 Experience a Day in Danville 26 A Beautiful Carbon Footprint by Mack Williams 27 Where Can I Find an Evince? 28 Reﬂecting Forward / Travel Lemery Style by Linda Lemery 29 Around the Table Make Travel a Culinary Adventure by Annelle Williams

On the Cover:

Photo of Barbara Croyle by Michelle Dalton Photography. Photo of Gary Beyer by Von Wellington

OICE OF TRAVEL

CEO / Publisher Andrew Scott Brooks

10 Perishables / Fiction by Telisha Moore Leigg

30 Photo Finish

THE

Jeanette Taylor Contributing Writers

Diane Adkins, Cara Burton, Kim Clifton, Patsi Compton, Ina Dixon, Cheryl Doss, Adam Goebel, Dena Hill, Amitie Hylton, Telisha Moore Leigg, Linda Lemery, CiJi Moore, Larry Oldham, Carollyn Lee Peerman, Mary Catherine Plaster, Peggy Scantlebury, Alison Streeter, Melanie Vaughan, Diane Whittle, Joyce Wilburn, Annelle Williams, Mack Williams

Business Manager Paul Seiple(1.877.638.8685) paul@evincemagazine.com Marketing Consultants Kim Demont (434.792.0612) demontdesign@verizon.net Lee Vogler (434.548.5335) lee@showcasemagazine.com Art & Production Director Demont Design (Kim Demont) evince\i-’vin(t)s\ 1: to constitute outward evidence of 2: to display clearly: reveal syn see SHOW Deadline for submission of August stories, articles, and ads is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22. Submit stories and articles to: joycewilburn@gmail.com. Submit calendar items by Wednesday, July 15, at 5 p.m. to www.showcasemagazine.com for Evince and Showcase. For ad information contact a sales associate or sales manager above.

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

Meet Some of Our Contributors

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 © 2015 All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part in any medium without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Amitie Hylton is an intern at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. She is a recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with degrees in English and history.

Peggy Scantlebury is a native of New York, a retired social worker, and a member of the United Way Book Club in South Boston.

Jeanette Taylor is an Evince Associate Editor in charge of proofreading. After working many years as a map engineer in Atlanta, she now uses her sharp eyes to proofread every story that appears in Evince.

Linda Lemery works as Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville.

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For Subscriptions, call 1.877.638.8685 ext. 6.

Evince Magazine Page 3 says, emphasizing the need for retirement communities. When a recruiter told her about Stratford House and Danville, she was ready to move. “Stratford House is a wonderful community with great staff and residents and this fall it will celebrate its 25th anniversary.” She pauses and then adds, “Danville is beautiful. The city is committed to revitalizing and growing all its services and activities. It’s a small city with a lot of opportunities. I’ve been impressed with the people I’ve met at DCC, Averett, the Institute, Danville Regional Foundation, The Community Foundation, Riverview Rotary, and others. Things are in place for Danville to continue coming back strong.”

Barbara Croyle sips on lemonade while waiting for guests to arrive. Photo by Michelle Dalton Photography.

Barbara Croyle

Learning about Danville by Joyce Wilburn

ossibly the most challenging task Barbara Croyle has as Stratford House’s Executive Director is what any new person in town would experience—getting to know the people in the community and their network of stories. “I can’t always make those connections,” admits the Knoxville, Tennessee, native. That’s probably the only thing she hasn’t done yet, based on her threepage resume of impressive professional credentials: a 1971 degree in sociology from William & Mary; a law degree from the University of Colorado; a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Denver; and a master’s certiﬁcate in gerontology from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Reﬂecting on her days in Williamsburg at the oldest college in the American South, Barbara laughs and comments, “I don’t have my Southern accent back yet, but it will

probably come.” The manager of the day-to-day operations of the retirement community located on the campus of the former Stratford College tells about the decades before arriving in Danville 18 months ago. “After graduating from W&M, I was recruited by the Philadelphia Institute for Paralegal Training and was placed in a job in Denver. I really enjoyed it, but it was a bit of a dead-end. An attorney encouraged me to go to law school, so I did,” she says. Being a lawyer wasn’t what she expected and after awhile, she joined an oil and gas company. “They probably hired me as a landman because of my legal background,” she reﬂects, referring to the title used for the man or woman who is in charge of acquisitions. Her job was to buy properties and be present at the closings. “I traveled a lot to Texas, Wyoming, and other oil-rich states. It was a good job until the oil crash of 1980-81

when the price of oil dropped.” Another change was in order. “I had family back East and moved to Pittsburgh. It had just been voted one of America’s most livable cities,” says Barbara. She was hired to be the strategic planning manager for the Transportation Division at Westinghouse. Two years into the job, the company was bought and she found a new position as Director of the Beneﬁt Resource Management Group, a subsidiary of Blue Cross. “I learned how to facilitate group discussions and pull ideas from people. I’ve used this knowledge ever since then to encourage team collaboration,” she notes. From the mid-1990s until her arrival in Danville, Barbara worked in hospital and health systems administration and senior housing in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Illinois. “I love the senior environment and learning about what’s going on in the industry. There are 10,000 people turning 65 every day,” she

On that positive note, Barbara returns to her ofﬁce and resumes planning Picnic on the Patio for the community. If you meet Barbara there or elsewhere, introduce yourself and ask her about Aijo, her cat, who played Cupid and orchestrated a serendipitous meeting between Barbara and her neighbor, Jeffrey Volpe. After she tells you about this humorous event and Barbara and Jeff’s marriage in 2006, tell her your story, because learning more about area residents is one of the things on her to-do list. She’d appreciate your help. • Stratford House is an 80apartment complex that opened in 1990 on the campus of the former Stratford College that closed in 1974. It offers independent and assisted living in onebedroom, two-bedroom, and penthouse residences. • Volunteer at Stratford House and become involved in many different ways depending on your schedule and interests. • For more information, visit Stratford House, 1111 Main Street, or www.stratfordhouse. com or call 434.799.2266 or 800.842-5812. • Picnic on the Patio will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The public is invited. Admission is free. Parking is in the lot off Rison Street. RSVP to Gordon Martel, Director of Sales & Marketing, 434.799.4406.

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July 2015

SHE SAID by Dena Hill

Summertime and the Living Isn’t Easy Many summer chores have been completed over the last few weeks and now I wait for school to start next month. This was the ﬁrst summer that I haven’t taught school in many years. Although I will miss the money, it has been nice to relax and enjoy working around the house and accomplishing everything that I have needed to do for a long time.

lately? It must be that delicious home cooking you serve when you’re not cleaning. I know you like to toot your own horn every month about cleaning and accomplishing your goals, but I’m not like that. I’m reserved and complete things in my own quiet way. I think it would be safe to say that I have accomplished all my goals and that I am now ready to settle down and relax.

You would say that I have been relaxing all my life and according to your standards you are right. You might even say I have been backing up instead of moving forward compared to all the work you do. I do enjoy watching you and I do beneﬁt from the fruits of your labor because everything is so clean and beautifully decorated. The yard looks nice, the dog is clean and we could eat off of the ﬂoors. Photo by I would say in Michelle Dalton Photography. your world all is right.

She said He Said

I guess my work ethic comes from my mother who always asked me why I was sitting down when I could be up and working. My father also told me to make sure I accomplished at least one thing each day so I could go to bed peacefully tired. Of course, he was always playing golf after work, before work, and probably sometimes during work. In any case, it has been a great summer and I am just glad that I have my health and stamina to do the work.

All of this brings me to you. It is not that I’m watching you or judging you (well, maybe I am); it’s just a fact that this whole summer you haven’t accomplished one thing at home. For that matter, you haven’t accomplished anything this whole year. You keep saying that you’re going to organize your art room but it hasn’t happened yet. Your art stuff has actually drifted into the living room which bothers me quite a bit. I haven’t seen the sofa in over a month! I am not accusing you of laziness; I think it is fair to say that everyone knows you detest work, but I hate to see the summer vanish and you haven’t gained a thing.

HE SAID

by Larry Oldham I don’t know that I haven’t gained a thing. Have you seen my middle

Frankly, I think we need more dirt in our lives and that is why you keep me around. I bring out the nasty in you. I mean when we ﬁrst got together, you didn’t even eat sandwiches. I am not saying that food at McDonald’s is your favorite meal now, but occasionally, you will eat a burger or a peanut-butter sandwich. Before we were together, you only ate ﬁve-star meals with an occasional lasagna thrown in for the kids. No, I would say you gained a whole new world with me and now you are stuck with the fact that we were meant to be together forever, or at least until we both have to switch over to baby food because we can no longer digest real food. I never promised you a rose garden, but if I had, at least you would then have something to keep you busy. Isn’t it about time you washed the windows inside and out? He Said / She Said can be found in Showcase Magazine.

Evince Magazine Page 5

The Voice of Readers To the Editor: The Averett Alumni & Friends Tour of the French Waterways (February 2015, page 5) was wonderful! I would never have felt comfortable traveling internationally on my own. For someone who hasn’t travelled very much, it was reassuring to be in a group of friendly people with a very capable leader. The pleasant experience began even before the trip. AU kept in touch and sent helpful information preceding the departure. When I met my fellow travelers for the ﬁrst time at the RDU airport, it was comforting to know someone was watching over us, but not in an overbearing way. I think

everyone onboard most likely envied the connections they saw between members of our group. The trip also provided a link for me to my alma mater. I would recommend this type of tour to anyone who wants to travel with nice people and have a good time. Sincerely, Gloria Lofurno Hollerbach AU Class of ‘64 Thanks for the nice words and the picture.

Dave Slayton ’73 holds the Reserved for Averett Alumni & Friends sign while kneeling next to Janet Holley. Seated are: Gloria Hollerbach ’64, Jeanette Taylor, Lorraine Womack, Marilyn Booth ’85, Marilyn Pagano. Back row: Sharon Scott, Martha Wilson ’64, Lamar Barr (on arm of chair), Gerry Belton, Boo Compton (AU VP & Professor ’69-99), Joyce Wilburn ’90, Larry Wilburn (AU Associate Dean & Professor ’86-‘12, BA ’03), Claudia Moore, Sylvia Harris, Connie Roland, Paul Lash, Christine Lash. The group cruised the Saone and Rhone Rivers in France on the MS Discovery II. The 2016 AU trip will be The Waterways of Belgium & Holland. It is open to the public. For more information, call 434.770.3285. 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 above, they are still available at www.evincemagazine.com.

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July 2015

Evince Magazine Page 7

Think Before You Speak by Carollyn Lee Peerman

id you know that a person who scrupulously refrains from hurting others through words will certainly not do so through action? Think how many people would not go through with a divorce if hurtful words had not been spoken. Think how many children would not be psychologically damaged if they had not been shattered with a cruel word. Do you realize that at the core of every broken friendship or shattered career is a seed of hatred planted by a hurtful word? Avert pain and anguish by restraining from speaking hurtful words. What is it that deﬁnes your essence as a human being and distinguishes you from the animal world? It is the power of speech. Words matter. Did you know that if you use contemptible speech against another you destroy three people? You destroy the subject of your evil words, your listener, and yourself. On the other hand, using your power of speech in a constructive manner can be a positive inﬂuence for generations to come. If you stumbled this morning in your use of speech, then strengthen yourself through quiet meditation and succeed this afternoon. The more determined you are to guard your tongue from negative speech, the easier it will be to be effective in all that you say.

Why are there are no words adequate to describe the depth of the gossiper’s crime? Listening to gossip may be enjoyable, but what a price you will have to pay. Why take the chance? Why allow one’s mouth to be a source of your ruination? When you respond to a verbal attack, the result is a worse verbal attack. When gossiper’s realize that you refrain from listening to gossip, they will avoid speaking in your presence. The gossiper has lost all credibility and his words cannot be accepted as truth. Flee idle chatterers and gossipers. Each day of your life is a gift. What a joy it is for you to speak with sensitivity and thoughtfulness. What a joy it is for you to speak without negativity. What a joy it is for you to restrain yourself from speaking when the situation warrants silence. What a joy it is for you to use the potential talents that you have been given. Words can birth miracles. Set a goal to remove negativity, gossip, slander, and divisiveness from your vocabulary and replace them with words of encouragement. Then you will be interacting with others in the best possible way. You will know how to look at people, speak to people, and speak about people. What a joy!

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July 2015

Spotting Exceptional Customer Service

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The Southern States staff prepares for another day of exceptional customer service: Bookkeeper Pam Chambers holding mascot Sophie; Merchandise Coordinator Bonita Bowden; Warehouseman George Brandon; Assistant Manager/ Field Applicator Jeff Dillard; Manager Lee Mitchell; Field Applicator Ray Barker; Field Applicator Randy Pickral. Missing from picture: Warehouse Manager RJ Amparo.

Evince and the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce want to encourage and recognize exceptional 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. by Cheryl Doss Excellent customer service has almost become a thing of the past, but not at Southern States, 742 Craghead Street. Not one person, but everyone who works there, makes an effort to welcome customers by name, when they walk through the door. But it doesn’t stop there.

434-797-1954 x 330

If you are a regular, they are already loading up your truck before you get to the register because they remember what you’re going to buy. Running late and walking in at closing time? Not a problem. You are still greeted with the same heart-warming smiles that you would receive in the middle of the day and a welcoming “Come on in.”

www.piedmontcu.org

I am nominating the entire staff for the Spotting Exceptional Customer Service Award, because this isn’t just the service they give occasionally; this is how they treat everyone who walks in the store, every time. They are always ready to answer questions and will help you ﬁnd the product you need to get the job done. They’ll also let you know if something is on sale or if there is a coupon available. For consistently going above and beyond, I nominate the entire staff of Southern States on Craghead Street for exceptional customer service.

LaQuita Tarpley-Marsh Real Estate Specialist

We’re Your�� Credit Union NMLS #402961

Evince Magazine Page 9 so that she can seat us. Gone are the days when the only tag showing was the one dangling from Minnie Pearl’s hat. Even though I’m not a fan of letting it all hang out, I’ll need to become more accepting of people’s behaviors. Styles change and so should my attitude, I suppose. Unless my hem gets stuck in my elastic when I leave a stall, I don’t ever plan on showing my lingerie even though the rest of the world doesn’t seem to mind if theirs does. I guess I’ll just have to put on my big girl panties and deal with it

Somebody needs to wear the pants in the family. I’m so tired of underwear being outerwear that I can’t help but write about it. I remember a time when showing your rear just meant being rude in front of others. Now it’s a fashion choice, although both ought to be considered ill-mannered. I would be willing to cut people some slack if they would wear some. Slacks, that is. A guy with his drawers on full display is old news. I’m completely unsympathetic to folks who must devote one hand to preventing their pants from dropping. We resolved that issue long ago with several solutions, including belts and suspenders. Or they could buy trousers that ﬁt. The only people who should be publicly tugging pants that far away from their stomachs are those advertising for Weight Watchers. Once I stood in front of a fellow struggling to hoist a sack of potatoes and two liters of Coke from his shopping cart. His choices went beyond paper or plastic bags. He had to decide whether to leave some packages behind... or show his to the customers in line after him when he let go of his jeans. It’s not simply a male thing. While the guys are wearing their britches too big, the girls are wearing theirs too small. With a closet full of clothes I can’t wear, I could really be in style if I had the nerve and the time to shoehorn myself into them. I must have at least 10 pairs of good khakis that I’ve surrendered in the battle of the bulge. Tight pants are one thing. Tights without pants are another. I missed the meeting that proclaimed stockings

Bottoms Up sufficient to pass as bottoms. Decorate them with floral patterns or fluorescent colors all you want; they still belong in the hosiery department and are best worn under a long sweater or skirt. It’s one thing to show a little leg. It’s another to show everything with little leggings. Leaving the house indecently exposed isn’t something new. We had a pitiful neighbor who did that occasionally without offending a soul. We owed this to advanced age and the absence of prescription drugs to correct the chemical imbalance. Today’s styles are destroying our values and hurting the economy, especially at vacation spots. I noticed in Myrtle Beach that many of the long-standing gentlemen’s clubs were out of business. Seems there’s no reason to pay to see someone in a darkened room without a top when you can see them in broad daylight without a bottom. Then again, beachwear has a whole different set of rules. You expect bare minimums even when it’s apparent that we’ve been broadened by more than travel. Unfortunately, the others staying in our condo complex didn’t see this as a problem. They paraded around with more self-esteem than sense. Either that or their units had no mirrors. I’ll admit to getting older. I’m comfortable with sounding and dressing like a prude. The truth is I’m more consumed with finding relief from my joints than spending

an evening drinking in one. I’m such a stick-in-the-mud that the only time I use the word party is to tell a hostess how many is in mine

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July 2015

Perishables ﬁction by Telisha Moore Leigg

“P

ut it back,” I whisper, but she’s not listening. Me and Mean Keisha, we friends now, and this grocery store is our last stop before we go back. I have to keep reminding myself those two things. I have to keep telling myself that it’s two or three blocks in the July heat from this no-name-brand grocery store to where I’ll have to bluff my fear through bad streets and hot weather to get back to the women’s shelter. I don’t want to walk back alone. Me and Keisha friends. And I don’t have any other friends. So, I bite my lip as Mean Keisha turns to me. “What this say, Stupid?” Mean Keisha says to me, food item in the air, ﬁfth time, different item each time, in the baby aisle. “Asparagus,” I say this time, kinda quiet. She puts it back on the shelf, still puzzled. “It’s a vegetable, Keisha.” I remember to take all sarcasm out of my voice because baby Kwon strapped to her side or no, she might take a swing at me. “Do it taste good?” Mean Keisha’s 18-year-old voice goes down an octave as she asks. “Never mind, Stupid, you don’t know neither. What you know ‘bout nothing?” She’s looking at baby shampoo and strained carrots now, seemingly engrossed, but I see her jaw tense. She don’t like asking me stuff. In any argument, I’m always the one who bows down to keep the peace. Mean Keisha and me, we’re friends now, and I know things like Mean Keisha don’t spell so good she says, but what she means is that she don’t read so good either. We are standing here in this baby food aisle; Mean Keisha is debating whether or not she will stuff another jar of Gerber’s creamed carrots in her big brown, fake-leather

handbag that she carries like a baby bag. Already it is bulging, lumps and clanking glass obvious where not pressed up against the crammed diapers, a conspiracy of pilfered items crowded together. Mean Keisha’s not my friend ‘cause she likes me. I know this and I’m okay with it. What does she want with a 14year-old homeless girl? She’s been 14. She’s homeless now. Sometimes I think I’m no good to her, especially now. ‘Cause I won’t help her steal, she mad. She said if I won’t get the baby food or cover for her, then at least tell her the labels, cause she got something in her eyes and can’t see right. I let her lie ‘cause she need to. But I’m scared. “Kwon going to get his in this world!” Mean Keisha says, mumbling more about who got and who don’t. Kwon is chewing on Mean Keisha’s brown shoulder strap, seemingly delighted with her larceny by evidence of his drooling and grinning. “But he got teeth and we got food at the shelter!” I say this loudly, hoping Mean Keisha puts everything back. I stand way back from her so anyone can see we ain’t together. I can’t stand the tension and dilemma of doing wrong. Mean Keisha plucks me hard on the head with her right hand, while cradling Kwon with her left, as she leaves the baby food aisle for fresh fruit. “Shelter don’t get the good stuff for him. That mess crap,” Mean Keisha says. She moves away from the spray of the cabbage and turnip greens huddled in bunches. She sees the bags of seedless grapes, and I can’t defend them before she shoves a whole bunch in her mouth and gives two to Kwon, who spits them out. I’m so nervous now, ﬁddling with the change in my pocket. Down the aisle taking things off the shelf and putting them back in the

wrong places, Mean Keisha rumbles on and I rush to catch up with her. I whisper for her to stop in a scandal voice. Mean Keisha opens and dips her finger in some strawberry applesauce. “Ain’t the point, Stupid!” I grit my teeth against her new name for me. She knows my name is Fallon. She knows I’m not stupid. Me and Mean Keisha got four dollars and fifty-nine cents total and two sticks of Doublemint gum between us and I’m in a panic. We got the shelter soup kitchen where we got our seats. We don’t need to buy nothing. I tell her that. “That ain’t the point either, Stupid! You just basic. Ain’t you ever just hungry for mor’en what you got?” “What? Put it back,” I whisper to Mean Keisha, grabbing her arm, frantic. She turns to me. Mean Keisha looks at me kinda sad. She switches Kwon onto her right hip. She smoothes back my hair and she seems older now, way older than her 18, like 80 or something. Kwon seems older, with his dark eyes and ancient innocence. “Look at me,” she says. I can’t look at her in her worn green top, footburner shoes, and plastic gold hoop earrings that Kwon swings at. I ain’t got much more going on either. We are standing in the middle of frozen foods now and the assistant manager is watching us. Mean Keisha sees him and winks at him, and he looks away in disgust. “Ain’t nobody going to give nothing, Stupid. You going to starve lonesome trying to be so good.” “Okay, whatever, just put it all back, please.” For some reason, I’m almost crying. Mean Keisha just shakes her head at me and puts the jars on the detergent aisle, ten of them, bright and orange between Tide Free and All detergents. “Okay, stupid. Now what we got?” We leave the store. I can breathe now that we are outside, even in the July heat. “Here, hold Kwon.” Mean Keisha doesn’t wait for a response. I sit outside the grocery store on the sidewalk, Kwon tucked in my lap, and I rest my chin gently on the top of his head. Mean Keisha comes out a few minutes later with banana popsicles, my favorite. She pulls the lining of her pockets inside out and drops a balled-up receipt in my lap. “Give Kwon one. Come on. Eat up, Stupid. They not gone last.” Mean Keisha don’t smile but she doesn’t frown at me either. She was right. They didn’t last. All that we couldn’t gobble down, melted on our walk back until we dropped them in the trash long before we made it to the shelter. Mean Keisha never said I told you so, never said a word, and I couldn’t say anything. I just licked the stickiness off my fingers, mourning, so sad, and hungry for more.

Evince Magazine Page 11

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Page 12

July 2015

Three Secrets to Providing Customer Service the “Old Fashioned” Way It’s getting harder these days to ﬁnd good old fashioned customer service. Not only are service providers apparently less motivated to deliver good service, but a lot of customers are making it harder for them to do so! On a trip to The Homestead, founded in 1766, in Hot Springs, VA, I experienced old fashioned service at its best. Three positive things they did made a big impression! Work like a team - After check in was complete, the front desk clerk called Frank, the bellman, over to usher us and our luggage to our room. It was then that we spotted our favorite bellman Keswick walking over to greet us. As we stopped to speak to Keswick, Frank was perceptive and generous enough to hand us over to his teammate. A brief but respectful exchange between teammates resulted in Frank remaining behind to help the next guest while Keswick helped us to our room. It was so refreshing to have our customer experience elevated above some ritualistic employee procedure. Pay attention to individual customer tastes - As my husband selected his second cup of tea during afternoon tea in the Great Hall on day one of our stay, tea server Ashley pointed out that his ﬁrst cup had been decaf and that he had just selected regular for his second. Although my husband intended to switch, we were impressed that Ashley had

noticed and felt compelled to check. She was doing more than just serving, she was paying attention. Handle difficult customers with grace At breakfast in the dining room one morning, the omelet chef was making pleasant conversation with four of us while we waited for made-to-order omelets. Another guest who had abandoned the omelet station suddenly reappeared and immediately received her waiting omelet. This guest then rudely snipped, “It’s cold. I don’t want a cold omelet!” Without hesitation or change of facial expression, the chef pleasantly offered to either place the omelet back on the griddle or immediately make a fresh one. The rude guest conceded that it would be ok and disappeared. While the rest of us were mortified by the unjustified rude behavior, Chef Cathy handled it with a grace that further endeared her to the four appreciative customers in front of her. Though old fashioned customer service is becoming less common, it’s still every bit as satisfying as it was in the days of old! Think back to the higher standards we enjoyed not that long ago, and then find ways to incorporate those timeless behaviors into YOUR customer service today.

Kristina R. Barkhouser, CPLP Direct: 434.797.6770 • Mobile: 434.489.1309 kbarkhouser@ExcelenPerformance.com Kristina R. Barkhouser is the founder and President of Excelen Performance, Inc. She has over 20 years of experience in technical and interpersonal skills development.

Think Fresh by Ciji Moore Education & Outreach Coordinator, Get Fit Dan River Region Think Fresh! You’ve probably been hearing this all summer. From shopping at the Farmers’ Market and purchasing local fresh produce to joining Get

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Fit for a workout every week at Moving on Mondays. Thinking fresh is about making changes in your daily routine. Sometimes it’s good to switch it up and do something outside the box. Think fresh with us this summer by following these easy tips. Start the week off right with some type of physical activity and continue to stay active throughout the week. Get Fit Dan River Region has Moving on Mondays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. throughout the summer. For more details about locations of the workout contact us at info@getﬁtdanriver.org.

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�� WE’RE SELLING HOUSESSM

Change it up. If you’ve been doing the same exercise routine, stop and think about how long you’ve been doing it. Are you enjoying it? Is it fun? Are you seeing any changes? Now ask yourself-- what haven’t I done before that I would like to try? Freshen up your workout and do it! Never stop. Don’t ever stop thinking fresh. Being healthy is a lifestyle. Incorporating new ways of doing things always keeps life interesting and leaves no room for getting stuck in a rut. Finally, always end the week the way you started.

Evince Magazine Page 13

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July 2015

Evince Magazine Page 15 individuals at the companies we represent. This gives us the leverage to step in and ﬁx things when a trip goes awry,” he says and then continues on a happier note, “We also have unique access to beneﬁts that can save a lot of money and provide a better experience: free upgrades, spa credits, food and beverage credits and added amenities.”

Gary Beyer Helping Area Travelers for 40 years by Joyce Wilburn

Photo by Von Wellington Photography

ary Beyer, owner of Holiday Travel Service of Danville, has answered a lot of questions in the 40 years he’s been in business, including a few that made him pause ever so slightly before answering. Here are the top ten inquires that brought a smile to his face: 1) Can you guarantee the weather? 2) What is the safest seat on a plane if it crashes? 3) Is it safe to drink the bath water in Mexico? 4) Am I speaking to a live agent? 5) Can I get a refund if it rains? 6) Is food included in an allinclusive trip? 7) Does ocean-view mean I’ll have a view of the ocean? 8) Are there kids at the adultsonly resort? 9) Do I have to use my real name to buy the ticket?

10) What language do they speak in Spain? 11) Are there icebergs in the Caribbean? 12) Does the ship have lifeboats? 13) May I have an aisle seat on the plane? I don’t want my hair to be messed up by being near the window. To an experienced traveler, these queries might seem silly, but Gary understands that not everyone has had the good fortune to travel and gain the knowledge that he and his staff have. Their professionalism and good customer service dictate courteous answers to all questions. Good customer service has been a hallmark of HTS for four decades. “We have established a solid niche market with corporate travel and custom-group travel,” says Gary. Noting the changes

that have occurred in the Danville area over the last 40 years, he adds, “Our industry has also changed during this time and we have found that service is the quality that keeps our customers coming back year after year. A strong customer service value has allowed us to survive through all the changes and uncertainty in the market.” Bragging just a bit about his staff, he continues, “Our agents have the education and personal experience to guide travelers and provide the best value for our customers.” Acknowledging reality, Gary realizes that even on the best-planned trip, something might go wrong—a passport is lost, a wallet is left at airport security, someone is injured. That’s when having a professional friend back home can help. “We have been able to develop personal relationships with

Some travelers consider planning a trip a do-it-yourself venture, especially with the availability of the Internet. That might not be such a good idea. “Did you know that over 30% of travelers who book online invest over five hours in the planning? With that statistic, I find myself wondering if they received the full vacation experience they were expecting. We all have busy lives. Why not leave it up to the travel experts to plan your vacation and save your free time for something else?” he asks and then adds, “Our agents think of the whole package. It’s just not the plane ticket you need anymore.” He explains that they have first-hand information on new resorts, cruise ships, tours, airline mergers, frequent flyer programs and more. They research destinations and learn about the latest offerings of prime travel resorts and locations. If you’re planning a trip, keep Gary’s advice in mind. Then write down all your questions and give HTS a call. With 40 years of experience and zillions of questions asked, they haven’t been stumped yet. • Holiday Travel Service of Danville, Inc., 127 Tunstall Road, is Danville’s oldest travel agency, celebrating its 40th anniversary this July. • HTS is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Their knowledge is free. They guarantee that your travel needs will be fulfilled by an agent who is committed to excellence in customer service. • For more information, call 434.799.0230 and visit wwww.facebook.com/ holidaytravelservice.

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July 2015

Calendar Clips Clip it. Post it. Do it.

For more activities, see the calendar on page 18.

Wednesday, July 1 – January 10, 2016 How People Make Things

Discover the methods of producing and manufacturing everyday objects as you travel through this interactive exhibition inspired by the factory segments from Mister Roger’s Neighborhood television series. Guests of all ages at the Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead Street, can explore a behind-thescenes view of how an item is made as they traverse through a variety of hands-on activities that incorporate real factory tools and machines. Featuring the four manufacturing processes of cutting, molding, deforming and reassembling, How People Make Things demonstrates each process in a fun and safe manner. DSC is open Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.dsc.smv.org or call 434. 791.5160. (submitted by Adam Goebel)

Mondays July 6, 13, 20, 27

Step by Step through Life

The Get Fit Team will be joining this group on the last Monday of each month. This club is for anyone who wants to be proactive about preventing cancer or the recurrence of cancer. It meets on the grounds of the Stratford campus. Each week information will be shared on how to put the fun in fitness, what’s new in nutrition and strategies for relieving stress. The remaining time will be spent walking or engaging in light exercise. It’s all about energizing and uplifting lives through fun, fellowship and fitness. Appropriate for all ages and fitness levels. Join the Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia at Kennedy Hall, 103 South Main Street, (lower level). For more information contact dwhittle@vcu.edu or call 434.421.3060. Parking is in the Stratford House lot on Rison Street. (submitted by Dianne Whittle)

Monday, July 6 – Friday, July 10 DSC Know It? Grow It! Camp

From 9:00 a.m. until noon, kids ages 8-12 can learn the basics of gardening and garden design at the Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead Street. Campers will design three plots each with a different purpose: vegetables for a home garden; forage for wildlife; ﬂowers for pollinators. Everyone will take home a few plants and plenty of seeds to create a garden masterpiece. $105 for members; $125 for nonmembers. For more information, visit www.dsc.smv.org or call 434. 791.5160. (submitted by Adam Goebel)

Monday, July 6

Genomic and Personalized Medicine for Smoking Cessation Dr. Sean David, Associate Professor of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, will be presenting this program that emphasizes the ways

in which your disease risks are unique and different, just like your other, more obvious characteristics. Those disease risks are based on what is written in your DNA at birth, combined with your lifestyle and environment. His remarks will be broadcast from the lower level of the Cancer Research and Resource Center via video conference from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Cancer Research and Resource Center, Kennedy Hall, 103 S. Main Street, lower level. Questions? Call 434.421.3060 or email cllitzenber@vcu.edu. The Cancer Research and Resource Center of Southern Virginia is funded by VCU Massey Cancer Center and the Virginia Tobacco Regional Revitalization Commission. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 19 Anything Goes

The age-old tale of boy meets girl and the complications which ensue is an amusing story wrapped around one of Cole Porter’s magical scores. Featured songs include “Anything Goes,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “Blow, Gabriel, Blow,” and “Take Me Back to Manhattan.” Over 20 collegiate and professional actors and technicians join a local company to bring this lively, tapdance-infused musical comedy to The Prizery, 700 Bruce Street, South Boston, on July 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and July 12, 15 and 19 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets $24 to $30 for adults; $22 for seniors; $12 for students, with half-price matinees on Wednesdays. For more information, visit www.prizery.com or call 434. 572.8339. (submitted by Alison Streeter)

Mondays, July 6 & July 20

Danville by Choice Meet-Up

On July 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Danville by Choice will meet at 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company, 209 Trade Street, for trivia night sponsored by the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce. On July 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Jake’s on Main, 215 Main Street, DBC will participate in Danville Historical Society’s Logo by trivia night. To participate in the DHS event, Katherine Stoyer an individual or a team of four must register in advance at shl840@comcast.net to guarantee seating. Jake’s opens for participants at 6:00 p.m. for dinner. Game starts at 7:30 p.m. The Danville by Choice group is open to all who enjoy meeting new people and having fun. For more information, visit www.facebook.com. (submitted by Ina Dixon)

Monday, July 13- Friday, July 17 DSC Builders Bootcamp

From 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., campers ages 8-12 will explore the fundamentals of engineering, design a mini roller coaster, protect an egg from smashing, and more at the Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead Street. $105 for members; $125 for non-members. For more information, visit www.dsc.smv.org or call 434. 791.5160. (submitted by Adam Goebel)

Tuesday, July 14

Controlling Your Pain

Dr. Eduardo Fraifeld will present Controlling Your Pain: the old, the new, the future pain. Whether you have a sports injury, arthritis, pain caused by cancer treatment, back problems or just periodic aches and pains, temporary or chronic, it shouldn’t control your life. This free program from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. will be held at Ballou Recreation Center, lower level. This is part of the popular, free Keeping Well in

Evince Magazine Page 17 Mind, Body & Spirit Series for those concerned with cancer prevention and survivorship. Bring a lunch; drinks and dessert are provided. Boxed lunches can be ordered in advance for $6.50. Call the Resource Center to make a reservation, 434.421.3060, or email cllitzenberg@vcu.edu. (submitted by Melanie Vaughan)

Tuesday, July 14

Open Mic @ The Prizery, South Boston

The Summer Theatre cast will sing some of their favorite songs in a casual, informal atmosphere in the Prizery’s banquet hall, 700 Bruce Street, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Bring sheet music and join in the fun. All tickets are $10 and a cash bar will be available. For more information, visit www.prizery.com or call 434.572.8339. (submitted by Alison Streeter)

Tuesday, July 21 – Sunday, August 23

DMFAH Mourns William T. Sutherlin

The Sutherlin Mansion at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main Street, will go into mourning in memory of Major William T. Sutherlin. He was the original owner of the mansion, a major tobacco baron and businessman, a quartermaster during the Civil War, Danville mayor and alderman. The Sutherlin Mansion will be following 19th century funerary customs to commemorate Sutherlin’s death on July 22, 1893. Black wreaths and crepe will be placed on the front doors; mirrors will be covered in black. Edwardian mourning dress and hair jewelry will be displayed. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is $8.00 for adults; $7.00 for seniors; $4.00 for students (ages 7 through college). Residents of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and Caswell County are admitted free of charge on the ﬁrst full Saturday and Sunday weekend of each month. For more information, call 434.793.5644 or visit www. danvillemuseum.org. (submitted by Amitie Hylton)

Friday, July 24

Canvas & Cabernet

Unlock your inner artist while enjoying your favorite wine in the art studio at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street, from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Step-by-step instructions will be given to create a simple and beautiful acrylic painting. This is a fun-ﬁlled way to unwind and learn something new. Participants must be of legal drinking age. The fee of $35 includes supplies. Wine is for sale by the glass or bring your own. From more information, call 434.793.5644 or email learn@danvillemuseum.org. Register early; class size is limited. (submitted by Cara Burton)

Saturday, July 25

Civil War Sesquicentennial Bus Tour

Using the theme of this 154-yearold Volunteers Wanted poster in the Pittsylvania Historical Society Museum, the public is invited to join Society members and guests for visits to historically signiﬁcant sites by purchasing in advance a $25 ticket for a 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. bus tour departing from the restored Chatham Train Depot. Tickets are available at M&W Florist on Main Street in Chatham and Tyler Flower Shop in Gretna or by phoning 434.432.8945. (Mary Catherine Plaster)

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Select July Promotions

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July 2015

July Calendar Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour – Millionaires Row & Holbrook Street. $8; free for children 12 & younger. www.danvillehistory.org. 434.770.1974. See ad page 26. Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History (DMFAH) self-guided audio-visual tours. Danville Science Center Digital Dome Theater - Open for guests to fully explore the known universe as well as some fascinating phenomena right here on Earth. The immersive dome setting showcases the scientific wonders of space, engages visitors with live astronomers, and offers large format films. Danville Science Center (DSC). 434.791.5160. Estlow’s Trains Exhibit - John “Jack” Estlow, Jr. originally constructed this “N” Scale Train layout which was donated by his daughters and grandson so visitors can enjoy trains running in the train station. DSC. 434.791.5160. Bingo – Bring a gift to exchange and have blood pressure and body index checked. Location/ times vary. 434.799.5216. Pittsylvania County Public Library Events. See page 23. Tai-Chi Day Classes - Increase strength, balance, flexibility and progress at your own pace. M 11:15am-12:15pm; W 3:304:30pm. 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 6-6:30pm; Adults M 67:30pm. Stonewall Youth Center. 434.797.8848. Prime Time Fitness - Lowimpact aerobics workout with a mix of various fun dance steps. Tu/Th 9:30-11am or

5:30-7pm. Coates Rec. Center. 434.797.8848. Get Moving with Chair Exercises – Low-impact class ideal for adults 50+. Tu/Th 11:30am-12:30pm. 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. W 5:15-6pm/TH 5:30-6:30pm Pepsi Building. TH 7-8pm. Coates Rec. Center. 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. Tu/Th 8:30-9:30am. 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. Ballou Book Swap - Take a book or two to read and leave a book or two to share. Fri. 9am-5pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216. Friday Night Fun and Dance – Enjoy a night of dancing with live music by City Limits Band or Country Pride Band. Ages 50+. F 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Rec. Center. 434.799.5216.

talent show, and more. 9am3:30pm. New Life Community Church. www.artiosoutpost.com

July 1 & 2

COAY July 4 Dance - Enjoy a hotdog with all the ﬁxins and dance. Free. 7:30-10:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

Wizard of Oz. W 2:30pm, TH 7:30pm. The Prizery. South Boston. 434.572.8339.

July 1 (thru 5)

Artios Outpost - A one-week visual and performing arts day camp for ages 7-17. Campers participate in worship, small groups, games, workshops, a

July 1 (thru 26)

Living on the Water - All Day. Virginia Museum of Natural History. Martinsville, VA. 276.634.4141.

July 1 (thru 31)

Danville Farmers’ Market Buy fresh, local produce, baked goods, meats, art and crafts. (W) 3-6pm, (Sat) 7:30am-12pm. Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961. Martinsville Farmer’s Market W and Sat. 7am-12pm.

July 1 (thru Jan. 2016)

How People Make Things. Danville Science Center exhibit. See page 16.

July 1

Animal Heroes - Check out the mobile petting exhibit hosted by Inﬁnity Acres Ranch from Martinsville. Meet and pet new animal friends. All ages. 3-4pm. Danville Public Library Children’s Area. 434.799.5195 ext. 4. Danville Braves vs Kingsport. See ad page 15.

July 2

July 2015 S

W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

S 4 11 18 25

Auto Racing – NASCAR/Whelen Late Model 200/Limited 100/Pure Stock 50. 7pm. South Boston Speedway.

July 4

Danville Symphony Orchestra’s Concert - Grand Ole Flag – 7pm9:30pm. Carrington Pavilion. Tank Museum Family Fun Day 10am-4pm. Highway 29 North. All American Pie Baking Contest - Winners will be announced at the Pavilion Main Stage. Rules and registration forms are available online or at the Danville Welcome Center. Grand prize winner will receive $500 cash. 2-3pm. Pepsi Building. 434.793.4636. July 4th Celebration - Enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts and Captain Jim’s Magical Illusion Show and a Danville Symphony Orchestra concert. Food concessions and amusement rides will be available. Admission is free. 6pm-10:30pm. Carrington Pavilion. 434.793.4636. Patriot Challenge 5k/10k Trail Run and Children’s Fun Run. An ice cream social will follow the race. Beach towels for the ﬁrst 100 who register. 8-11am. Anglers Park. 434.793.4636.

Johnny Cash and the American Legends - Take a walk down memory lane with Ken and Sandra Culbertson as they perform hit songs from Johnny Cash, June Carter, Loretta Lynn and many more. 12-1:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Job Corps Information Session - Learn a career, earn a high school diploma, and gain the real world skills needed to succeed. 10:30am-12:30pm. Workforce Development Center. 434.455.2521.

July 6 -27

July 2 & 3

Toastmasters - Improve communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. 6pm7:15 pm. National University. 434.793.1431.

Danville Braves vs Princeton. See ad page 17.

July 3

Step by Step Through Life. See page 16.

July 6

Danville Science Center Summer Camp. See page 16. Genomic and Personalized Medicine for Smoking Cessation. See page 16. Danville by Choice Meet-Up. See page 16. Deco Mesh Wreath Making 3-5pm, 6-8pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216.

July 7, 21

July 8, 9 & 10

Woodworking - Making a bird feeder to take home. 9am. Spencer-Penn Centre. 276.957.5757.

If you’d like to submit an item for the Evince calendar, visit www.showcasemagazine.com. The deadline for the August issue is Wednesday, July 15, at 5:00 p.m. Please send just the basic information following the format on these pages.

Evince Magazine Page 19 Danville Braves vs Blueﬁeld. See ad page 17.

July 10, 24

Movies in the Park - The Lego Movie (7/10), Planes; Fire and Rescue (7/24) - Enjoy watching family movies underneath the trees on the big screen at the Ballou Park stage. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Movies are suitable for all ages. 9-11pm. Ballou Park Stage. 434.799.5215.

July 10 (thru 19)

Children’s Summer Theater Anything Goes. Times vary. The Prizery. South Boston. 434.572.8339.

July 10

Art Reception - Work by Bob Zirillo - Paintings. 6-8pm. Kirby Gallery. Roxboro, NC.

July 11

Gene Haas Center Open House. IALR/DCC. See page 13. Artfelt Expressions of Bob Ross - Ed Gowen, certified Bob Ross instructor, will help you complete a beautiful painting in one day. Bring a roll of paper towels and a 16x20 canvas. All other supplies are included. Adults 18+.10:30am3:30pm. Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216. Zip Line - Wet and Wild - Ride the zip line through streams of water being sprayed along your flight path. Ages 8+. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.3-4:30pm. Skate Park at Dan Daniel Park. 434.799.5215. Welcome to Medicare - This seminar explains Medicare and the coverage options available including: supplements, Advantage Plans and Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. 12-1:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Science Saturdays - Mammal Mania. 10am-3pm. VMNH. 276.634.4141. Auto Racing – NASCAR Late Model T-75/Limited 50/Pure Stock 30/Hornets 15/Modified 50. 7pm. South Boston Speedway.

July 12

Star Trek V: The Final Voyage. 3-5pm. Kirby Cultural Arts Complex. Roxboro, NC.

July 13 (thru 16)

Lego Camp - A beginner camp for youth who love Legos. 9am. Spencer-Penn Centre. 276.957.5757. DSC Builders Bootcamp. See page 16.

July 14

Controlling Your Pain. See page 16. Open Mic at the Prizery. See page 17.

July 15

Camp Half-Blood - Are you ready to face monsters and gods? Welcome to Camp Half-Blood, a state-of-the-art training facility for young demigods. Celebrate the world of the Percy Jackson books by Rick Riordan. 3-4pm. Danville Public Library Children’s Area. 434.799.5195 ext.4.

July 15, 16 & 17

Danville Braves vs Elizabethton. See ad page 17.

July 16

Music on Main Concert Series Bring a chair, blanket and picnic basket for a relaxing evening. In the event of rain, concerts will be held indoors at the Community Market. 6:30-8:30pm. Main Street Plaza. 434.793.4636. Antique Appraiser Roadshow Have you ever wondered what that priceless family heirloom is worth? Celebrate “National Cherish an Antique Day” with B & H Auctions to learn more about your favorite items and have them appraised. Limit of two items per person. Spectators are welcome to enjoy this event for free. 9:30-11am. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Kayaking Moving Water Practice eddy turns and peel outs in the rocky water then splash through the chute at the breached dam. Stealthy paddlers may be entertained by a group of otters playing in the river. Participants must have previous paddling experience. Ages 12+.6:308:30pm. Newton’s Landing on Bridge Street. 434.799.5215. Gardening Basics - Plants Biggest Pests - Do you have questions about your plants, ﬂowers or how to design your yard? Join Stuart Sutphin, Virginia Cooperative Extension Agent, as he shares information and answers questions about landscape design. There is no fee, but registration is required. 12-1:30pm. Pepsi Building. 434.797.8848. Canning Vegetables Making Jellies and Jams. 1-4pm. Spencer-Penn Centre. 276.957.5757.

July 17

Painting with Pepper - After just three hours in this acrylic painting class, you will create a piece of art you can treasure. All materials are included and light refreshments will be served. Whether you have painted before or this is new to you, artist Pepper Martin will guide your artistic talents.14pm. Ballou Annex Building. 434.799.5216. Tire Rack Ultimate Track Car Challenge - Your car needs to pass a NASA safety inspection. Run any tire and any suspension type; add seven turbos,

superchargers, displacement, spinning triangles; mount it to a production-based chassis or tube frame; use chromoly, carbon ﬁber, lexan—whatever your wrenching heart desires. All day. VIR. 434.822.7700 ext. 117. TGIF Concert Series - The Dirt Road Scholars. 6-10pm. Uptown Martinsville. Third Friday Art Walk - Visit Uptown. Enjoy art, food, music, and fun along Martinsville’s historic streets. Over 20 galleries, restaurants and shops are open with live music and other events happening. 5-7pm.

July 24

July 17, 18 & 19

July 29

Shakespeare in the Park. Dan Daniel Park. See page 8.

July 18

Blackberry Smoke Concert. Carrington Pavilion. See page 28.

July 18, 19 & 20

Danville Braves vs Briston. See ad page 17.

July 20

Danville by Choice Meet-Up. See page 16.

July 21

DMFAH Mourns William T. Sutherlin. See page 17. Summer Camp Play Day – sponsored by the Danville Parks and Recreation for children 6-12, to celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month. Children will enjoy a day of fun, crafts, games, water activities and entertainment. Register by 7/17. 10am-3pm. Crossing at the Dan. 434.797.8961. Danville Memory Café - This cafe is a place for relaxed conversation and interaction for persons who are diagnosed with early-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, or another related memory disorder. Care partners/family are invited to this social opportunity. 11am12pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Cruise Smith Mountain Lake on the Virginia Dare - The Virginia Dare is a 19th century replica side wheeler that is 63 feet long. The cruise comes with sightseeing and a diverse lunch menu.10am-3:30pm. Ballou Recreation Center. 434.799.5216. Cooking Camp - A class for teens. 1pm. Spencer-Penn Centre. 276.957.5757.

July 22

Impressions Theater Robin Hood and His Merry Band. Danville Public Library Auditorium. 434.799.5195 ext. 4.

July 23

Golden Opportunities Speaker Series. Stratford House. See ad page 20.

Canvas & Cabernet. See page 17.

July 25

Civil War Sesquicentennial Bus Tour. See page 17. Deals 4 U - Major brand merchandise at extremely low prices.8am-3pm. Tank Museum. 434.836.5323. South Boston Truck & Tractor Pull. 7pm. Halifax County Fairgrounds. Picnic on the Patio. See page 3.

July 27 & 28

Danville Braves vs Burlington. See ad page 17. Community Heroes Truck Parade - Do you love big trucks? Are fire fighters your favorite heroes? Would you like to learn how the new garbage trucks work? Check them out at our big summer finale. We will have real community helpers and their vehicles for you to learn about and explore. All ages. 3-4pm. Danville Public Library Children’s Area.434.799.5195 ext. 4.

Upcoming August 1 (thru 29)

Farmers Market – Get the best selection of fresh, local produce, baked goods, meats, arts and crafts, and much more. Everything you need for a fresh, locally grown supper. w & F Danville Community Market. 434.797.8961.

August 4 & 18

Toastmasters. 6-7:15 pm. National University; Tues.

August 7

Fridays at the Crossing. 6-11pm. Carrington Pavilion. 434.793.4636

August 7, 8 & 9

ChampTruck World Series and Optima Batteries ChumpCar World Series. VIR. www.virnow.com.

August 7 & 21

Movies in the Park - Enjoy watching family movies underneath the trees in Ballou Park. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. Movies are suitable for all ages. 7/7 - Up; 7/21 - Annie; Fire and Rescue. 9-11pm. Ballou Park Stage. 434.799.5215.

August 20

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July 2015

Peggy’s Little Red Wagon

memories of Grandma’s Summer Garden by Peggy Scantlebury

I remember spending many summers on my grandmother’s farm. Several cousins joined me on these childhood adventures. I am reminded of a little red wagon my Aunt Jane purchased for us. My cousins loved pulling each other and small animals in the wagon; I found the greatest joy using the wagon to haul goodies from the garden that Uncle Peter had plowed and grown. You name it; we had it.

and of course, my favorite juicy tomatoes. Aunt Jane became tired of the constant bickering and one day went to town and bought several little shakers. She mixed salt and pepper together, put the mixture in the shakers, and gave us each one. She told us to put the shakers into our pockets and then said she didn’t want to hear another word about salt or pepper ever again. That solved the problem.

My grandma never had to tell me to go to the garden or what to bring back. That was one job I had under control and loved. I never saw it as a chore, but rather a pleasure. Washing the tomatoes, cutting them, and adding sugar was the highlight of my day. We would eat the sweetened tomatoes with everything—black-eyed peas, butter beans, corn, cabbage. To this day, I like eating fresh tomatoes.

Dear Cousin Joseph thought a good way to open a watermelon was to throw it in the air and let it hit the ground and burst open. He didn’t care how many times he was told not to do that, he continued. He constantly disobeyed, and like clockwork, he continued to get switched. Uncle Peter solved that problem. He gave each of us a little pocket knife, making it easy for us to cut the watermelons and cantaloupes.

Sadly, I apparently became allergic to eating too many fresh tomatoes. I would break out with sores and blisters around my nose and mouth. Did this stop me from loving tomatoes? No! I was instructed to stay away from the tomatoes because of this unfortunate problem. These warnings did not set well with me and so I would sneak to the garden from time to time to sink my teeth into one of the juiciest tomatoes I could ﬁnd. Of course, there was always a tattletale somewhere lurking and trying to “get in good” with Grandma who would run to the house and tell her my business. Then, when I returned to the house, Grandma would ask, “Peggy, you been in the tomatoes?” I would stand there scared to death and look her straight in the eye and say, “No.” She would ask me why tomato juice was all over my face and shirt. Needless to say, I was confronted with a switch for disobeying her and telling a lie.

After we sat in the garden and ate our ﬁll, it was time for the red wagon. I would gather all the vegetable remains, place them in the little red wagon, and haul them off to the pig pen. Our pigs would then indulge themselves. My cousins knew that when I came for the wagon, it was for one thing only—gathering food from the garden. There was not to be any arguments over giving up the wagon, because for me, it was serious business. I did not have time to play with them or the wagon. They thought it was cute to give rides in the red wagon to the piglets and puppies. That was OK, until it was time for me to go to the garden.

There were times when we were in the garden that my cousins and I would ﬁght over salt and pepper shakers. We would gather there and eat cantaloupes, watermelons,

Although Aunt Jane was thoughtful and smart to purchase little salt and pepper shakers for each of us and Uncle Peter solved our other problem with pocket knives, no one purchased little red wagons for each of us, therefore, we shared the one wagon. I thank God for our little red wagon and all the joy it brought to us, but especially, because when it was time to go to Grandma’s garden, that little red wagon had Peggy written all over it. At those times, that wagon was indeed, Peggy’s Little Red Wagon.

Evince Magazine Page 21

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July 2015

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Evince Magazine Page 23 initiative of the Danville Regional Foundation.

Reading/Learning Programs:

• Preschool Early Literacy Programs: Mother Goose on the Loose: Monday, July 13, 10:00 a.m., Brosville. Fridays, July 10 and 17, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Hermon. Books, music, poems, nursery rhymes, and rhythm instruments. Open to children ages birth to 3 with their parents or caregivers. • Wednesdays for Wees/Rhythm Reads/Story Time for Little Readers: Wednesday mornings, July 8 and 15, 10:00 a.m. all branches. Children ages newborn to 5. Presented in partnership with Smart Beginnings Danville Pittsylvania County.

Book Discussions for Adults:

• Second Thursday Discussion Group: July 9, 4:00 – 5:45 pm., Chatham. Open to adults. Book this month is The Color of Water by James McBride. • Book Talk: Friday, July 10, noon, Brosville. Read a book that you would not normally read. Bring salad or dessert, pizza will be provided.

Food, Nutrition, Fitness, Health:

• Second Tuesday Recipe Club: Tuesday, July 14, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. This month’s theme is “No Bake Dishes.” Call for information and to register, 434.656.2579.

Computer Classes:

• One-on-One Tutorials with Luther: Every Wednesday, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Chatham. Low stress, lots of friendly help.

Art & Craft Programs:

What’s Happening in the Pittsylvania County Public Libraries Summer Reading Program:

Read to the Rhythm! continues through July 17. Read for the fun of it and earn chances to win prizes. • Special presentation: Tuesday, July 7, 10:00 a.m., Brosville. Fred Motley and the African Dancers. Lunch immediately following at Brosville United Methodist Church. • Special SRP ﬁnale programs: Gretna: teens, Monday, July 13 at 3:00 p.m.; children, Thursday, July 16, 11:00 a.m. • Your Night @ Your Library: Thursdays, July 2, 9, and 16 at 6:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon. All ages. • Live Out Loud: Finale on Saturday, July 18, 2:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. Ages 12-17.

• Craft Day: July 1, Chatham. Stop by anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to try a variety of different craft projects. • Knitting & Amigurumi Crochet Groups: Mondays, July 6 and 20, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. All skill levels are welcome. • Re-Use It Tuesday Craft Night: July 7, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. Necklace Holder. Call for supplies list and to register. Cost is $2.00 per person. • Needlework: Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 12:00 noon, Brosville. Crochet—come and join the group to learn and work on your projects. • Second Saturday Quilt Club: Saturday, July 11, 10:00 a.m. until noon, History Research Center and Library, Chatham. • Loom Knitting: Thursday, July 23, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Brosville. Learn how to knit a hat on a knitting loom. Bring your own loom or borrow one from us. Yarn provided. • Craft Day: July 28, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Chatham. Make book jewelry (necklaces, earrings, or pins).

Game Programs & Activities:

• LEGO Playtime: Fridays, July 10, 17 and 24, 10:00 until noon, Chatham—in children’s area. • LEGO Fun Day: Saturday, July 11, 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Mt. Hermon. • Book Bingo: Tuesday, July 28, 5:00 p.m., Gretna. Family fun and prizes.

Movies:

Tales Told Out of School:

• Monday, July 6, 2:00 p.m., Brosville. Annie (original version). • Monday, July 13, 2:00 p.m., Brosville. The Jungle Book. • Mondays, July 6 and 13, 2:00 p.m., Chatham. TBA. • Wednesday, July 22, 11:00 a.m., Gretna. Annie. • Afternoon Toons: Fridays, July 24 and 31, 4:00 p.m., Mt. Hermon.

Our Civil Rights: A Local and National Story ﬁlm and discussion series:

All libraries closed on July 3 and 4 in observance of Independence Day

Tuesday, July 21, 6:00-7:45 p.m., Gretna. Do you have memorabilia or stories about any of the county public high schools that have closed since 1945? We’d love to talk to you! Join our history team at the Gretna library. Bring your items and your stories, and let’s talk!

Tuesday, July 28, 6:45-8:30 p.m., History Research Center and Library meeting room, Chatham. This month’s focus will be on the ﬁlm Briars in the Cotton Patch, the story of Koinonia Farms, a Christian interracial community in Georgia in the 1950s. The discussion will be led by Dr. Andrew Canady, Averett University Assistant Professor of History, and other community voices. All are welcome. The series is made possible by a grant from the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities, and is presented in partnership with History United, an

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 visit www.pcplib.org..

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July 2015

Book Clubbing A review by Carollyn Peerman

A review by Diane Adkins

by Christopher S. Wren

by Rachel Joyce

Walking to Vermont: from Times Square into the Green Mountains -a Homeward Adventure Do your best thoughts come to you while walking by yourself? If so, then this book is for you. Upon retirement, Wren decided to walk from Times Square in Manhattan to his home in Vermont. Take the journey with him. Whether it is New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, or New Hampshire each chapter is a delight. For 28 years, Wren served as a reporter, foreign correspondent and editor for The New York Times. He was its bureau chief in Moscow, Cairo, Beijing, Ottawa, and Johannesburg as well as being a correspondent at the United Nations. He’d had enough. Wren left his ofﬁce and headed 400 miles by foot into the soul-expanding glory of a stirring adventure. Not only does he write keen-eyed descriptions of the beautiful countryside, but he introduces readers to a wide variety of colorful characters. Moreover, he shares memories of the powerful, dangerous, and comical moments he lived as a foreign correspondent in farﬂung countries. He does all of this with the eyes and ears of an observant reporter. Here is an honest man who displays great integrity with disarming humor. During his journey on the Appalachian Trail, he stopped at the Convent of the Holy Community where he spent a night and read these words on a wall: In quietness are all things answered, and is every problem quietly resolved. The following morning, he changed his bed reciting the words of a prayer the nuns left for him, “Oh Lord, guide my hands as I make this bed ready for another’s rest. Help me perform this act with care and love. Refresh the one who follows me here.” Wren ponders, “Was it Socrates who said several thousand years ago that those who are happiest and nearest the gods are those who need nothing?” Many times Wrenn sought to lighten the load on his back to make his journey easier. He didn’t want an addiction to stuff; he didn’t want stuff to own him. Wren quotes Thoreau: “Simplicity, simplicity. Keep your accounts on your thumbnail.” Wren appreciated the peacefulness and calm of hiking. He preferred hiking alone as did Henry David Thoreau who never found a companion who was as companionable as solitude. To be in company even with the best is soon wearisome and dissipating. Wren found that solitude left him feeling content rather than lonely; furthermore, to Wren, being outdoors in nature was enough company for him. He never felt less alone than alone. Send information about what you or your book club is reading to joycewilburn@gmail.com.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy Harold Fry has a problem. He’s retired. He has a joyless marriage. He spends his days at home with his wife doing so little of any consequence that he looks forward to mowing the lawn. He has nothing much to live for and little reason to keep going. Then, out of the blue, he receives a letter from Queenie Hennessy, a woman he knew during his working days. She is saying a final goodbye from a hospice far away in the northernmost part of England. Harold composes a bland reply—so sorry, thank you for your letter, best wishes—and sets off to mail it at the end of the road. Instead of stopping though, he keeps walking. For Henry, the letter from Queenie touches off memories of their friendship, as well as a deep examination of his life; he abruptly stops in a phone booth, calls Queenie’s hospice and tells them to give her a message: “Tell her Harold Fry is on his way. All she has to do is wait. Because I am going to save her, you see. I will keep walking and she must keep living.” What follows Harold’s call is a story of finding meaning in life through the journey—the literal one as well as the metaphorical one. It’s nearly cliché to say what matters about a journey is not the destination, but for Harold, the destination is of great importance, and so are the people he meets along the way. He needs to see Queenie, and as it turns out, she needs to see him. That is evident in the second volume, which is not a prequel or a sequel, but the same story told from Queenie’s point of view. Either volume can be read as a stand-alone book, but read together, they tell a richer tale. There are passages of soul-searching on Harold’s part, insights that shed some light on the unusual path he has chosen. Why has his marriage become so loveless, so devoid of passion? Why was he not a better father? What was it about his friendship with Queenie that draws him now? There are also moments of ironic comedy. Once his walk draws publicity, there are people who want to help him. Eventually, pilgrims join him, walk with him, and just as suddenly, leave him. The theme of this month’s Evince is travel. When we talk about that, we are far more likely to be discussing a cruise rather than a pilgrimage. But there is something about trading in the familiar, everyday life and going somewhere else that helps us reframe everything. It’s the poignant ending, the final destination which makes this pilgrimage, both Harold’s and Queenie’s, worth taking. Diane S. Adkins is the Director of the Pittsylvania County Public Library System.

Evince Magazine Page 25 Have you visited Danville recently? Even if you’ve lived here your entire life, take a day and visit it as a tourist would. The Danville Historical Society has created this itinerary to help you plan your day of fun. It looks like this:

Experience a Day in Danville Saturday and Sunday); Dell’ Anno’s Pizza Kitchen @ 316 Main Street (closed Sunday); Golden Leaf Bistro @215 Craghead Street. Nearby on the north side of the river is Moon River Thai Bistro @ 627 North Main Street. Check times before going; they frequently change. See descriptions below in the 6:00 p.m. section. 1:15 to 2:45 You choose the activity: shopping, interactive science exhibits, exercise, or viewing art and history exhibits.

10:30 to 12:00 Meet in the Learn, Explore, Enjoy gathering area on the corner of Sutherlin Avenue and Magruders Alley (the back lawn of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street), for a guided walking tour of

Millionaires’ Row, The Secrets Inside. Learn little-known facts about the historic buildings on or near Main Street and their former residents. You will walk into the heart of the historic district where you’ll marvel at the beautiful Victorian mansions and churches. Another option is the hour-long guided walking tour of the Holbrook Ross Historic District, There’s a Story Here. Learn about the professional African-American community who lived here from the late 1800s to the late 1960s on this tour. Reservations are required. Call 434.770.1974. Visit www. danvillehistory.org for more information. 12:15 to 1:15 Lunch in the River District: Main Street Coffee Emporium @547 Main (closed

Shopping/Murals: Rippe’s (over 100 years of women’s fashion @ 563 Main), Lou’s Antiques (3 ﬂoors of beautiful treasures @225 Main), The Brick (maybe you need a new pair of walking shoes? @

410 Main), River District Artisans @ 411 Main Street, Vintages by the Dan (fine wines, craft beers, gourmet foods, gifts @312 Main. They usually have wine/beer tastings on Saturday afternoons) and Chestnut Lane (antiques, painted furniture, home accessories will open in mid-July @531 Main), Hile’s Inc (for the train collector @ 607 Main.) Allow time to see the outdoor art on two downtown buildings. The Memorial Drive/Main Street mural (the outside wall near Vintages by the Dan) depicts the story of the Old 97 train wreck; the North Union Street mural facing Spring Street shows downtown Danville in the 1920s. Look for outdoor art and oddities on the Danville Art Trail. Download a map at www.playdanvilleva.com and search under parks and trails. Also, see pictures on page 30-31. Science Station/Butterfly Station/Science Center/ Riverwalk: At the Science Station, visitors will find the Estelle Womack Natural History Collection of local and exotic animals, rocks, minerals and fossils. Formerly it was a Southern Railway Passenger Station. Built in 1899, it is on

the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, it also serves as an Amtrak station. Nearby is the Butterﬂy Station and Garden-a living laboratory for visitors of all ages open during the warm months. The Danville Science Center has visiting exhibitions, permanent exhibits and a new digital dome theater. www.dsc. smv.org. The Riverwalk is a pedestrian trail that crosses the Dan River and leads to relaxing stops by the water’s edge with an opportunity to commune with nature. The DSC and the Riverwalk are at 677 Craghead Street. Enter the Riverwalk on the south side of the river from the parking lot across from Jake’s on Main in the Fountain Plaza. Enter the Riverwalk on the north side from the parking lot at 677 Craghead Street.

Art and History: Return to the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History where the morning guided tour began and take a guided tour of the 1858 mansion and art galleries. Buy souvenirs in the small gift shop. The Schoolfield Museum & Cultural Center, 917 West Main Street, is a textile heritage showcase focusing on industrial, home and school artifacts, bringing them to life with the voices of the village of Schoolfield and the legacy of Dan River Mills. It is open from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays only or by appointment 434.793.0711. Also, the Langhorne House, 117 Broad Street, is open from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays. This is the birthplace of Lady Nancy Langhorne Astor, the first woman to sit in the British House of Commons. Her sister, Irene Langhorne Gibson, was

immortalized as the Gibson Girl. The AAF Tank Museum, 3401 US Highway 29 North, is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Call 434.836.5323 to check on times.

6:00 Dine at one of the River District restaurants: Jake’s on Main, 215 Main Street, in the JTI Fountain Plaza. Happy hour starts at 4:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Jake’s offers a trendy place to have upscale casual food in a social environment. www.jakesonmaindanville.com. Golden Leaf Bistro, 215 Craghead Street, is open from 11 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. weekdays and from 11:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Open on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. www.goldenleafbistro.com. Golden Leaf offers an elegant atmosphere with culinary masterpieces. Dell’ Anno’s Pizza Kitchen, 316 Main Street, is open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily except Sunday. They offer salads, pizza, and other Italian favorites with beer or buy a bottle of wine next door at Vintages and enjoy it at Dell’ Anno’s for a small cork fee. Moon River Thai Bistro, 629 North Main Street, is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch Monday through Friday and daily for dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30/10:00 p.m. Off-street parking is available. Call 434.791.2939 to check on times. Spend the night in the historic district. Both Inns are on the walking tour. • The Two Georges Inn, 124 Broad Street, Danville, VA, 434.793.1119 www.TheTwoGeorgesInn.com • The Lawson-Overbey Inn, 782 Main Street, Danville, VA 434.792.5901 www.lawsonoverbeyinn.com

Page 26

July 2015

were approximately 150 people assembled at the old Danville train station. My son, Jeremy, and I looked up and saw the helicopter that my rail-fan brother, Joe, told me would be ﬁlming the 611’s return to its home at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke. The accompanying helicopter looked like some giant dragonﬂy attracted to the great engines exhalations. When the 611 passed by in all its restored shininess, steam, and coal smoke, I couldn’t contain myself and shouted, “That’s a beautiful carbon footprint!”

he inquiries by phone and in person started weeks before Saturday, May 30th. All were basically the same: “What time will the old Norfolk and Western steam engine No. 611 pass by the Danville train station?” Because that building is part of the Danville Science Center, it was no surprise that DSC staff was receiving inquisitive calls and visits about that chugging piece of history. Some restorative work had been done on the old 611 in Spencer at the North Carolina State Transportation Museum, where men who had been the recipients of passeddown knowledge concerning the repair of coal-ﬁred steam engines labored. In the wee hours of May 30th, I awoke and couldn’t go back to sleep for thinking about the 611’s arrival in Danville. It was like my childhood Christmas Eve insomnia, waiting for Santa to slide down the chimney. The only similarity between the two could be narrowed down to a comparison between a steam locomotive’s smokestack and a chimney (in my childhood, we heated with coal). Just before 11:05 a.m. and the No.611’s run-through, there

Von Wellington captured this picture at the Danville train station and then edited it to look like a painting.

A Beautiful Carbon Footprint by Mack Williams Natural History Educator Danville Science Center

I was reminded of another phenomenon-- an eclipse of the sun-- because only those standing within the narrower track of the moon’s deepest shadow experience the event in its totality. On May 30th, 2015, only those standing within sight of a narrow length of railroad track between Spencer, North Carolina, and Roanoke, Virginia, personally experienced the “totality” of the Norfolk and Western No. 611. • For more information about the Virginia Museum of Transportation, 303 Norfolk Avenue SW, Roanoke, visit www.vmt.org or call 540.342.5670.

Evince Magazine Page 27 Evince

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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 @ Piedmont Mall Los Tres Magueyes Ruben’s The Highlander URW Credit Union Western Sizzlin YMCA

Main & West Main Street/Downtown/ River District Area

American National Bank 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) Jake’s on Main Main Street Coffee Emporium Midtown Market on Chambers Street Rippe’s

Piney Forest Road Area

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

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

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, VA

3 Women No Truck Bistro 1888 Halifax County Public Library O Sol Mio on Bill Tuck Hwy. Southern Virginia Higher Education The Prizery Toots Creek Antiques Mall

In Gretna

American National Bank Carter Bank & Trust Crossroads Family Restaurant

In Martinsville

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

In Yanceyville, NC

Caswell County Civic Center Gunn Memorial Public Library The Drug Store

Page 28

July 2015

Reﬂecting Forward Travel, Lemery Style

friend was telling me what a restful, relaxing vacation she had. Lemery vacations are not like that. We use them to haul furniture across country and cope with mechanical breakdowns. The vacations start innocently enough. A recent holiday weekend seemed like a perfect time to haul a bedroom set and other things to our son’s apartment in Chicago, see a few friends, and attend a workshop on the way back home.

My mathematician husband laid out a scale model graph paper grid of the furniture and our trailer. With a student’s help, we loaded the middle of the trailer with a queensized mattress and box spring and jammed other stuff on either side. My husband draped a tarp over it all in case of rain, shoving its ends into the sides of the trailer and tying it down with lots of straps, bungee cords, and duct tape. When we left Danville late the next afternoon, we were exhausted. Our

Photo by Steve Limery

by Linda Lemery

van was so loaded there was barely room for us. I noticed the tarp was already shredding and said not a word, because if we had stopped to fix it, we might have ended up going back home. By the time we hit Roanoke, one side of the mattress was exposed, the clouds were turning black, the winds were gusting, and the radio was blaring news about a tornado watch. At a truck stop, we stripped off all the tie-downs, replaced the tarp with a spare, used up three rolls of duct tape trying to minimize wind resistance, then replaced all the tie-downs. We slept a few hours in Beckley, West Virginia, and arrived at our son’s apartment the next evening looking like yesterday’s lunch. After unloading the van, our son and his friends unpacked the trailer and hauled everything up three winding flights of stairs leading to his apartment. Then came the jigsaw of putting the bed together. Deciding to escape the bed’s reconstruction, our son’s girlfriend asked if I’d like to go shopping. I’d been looking for a semi-recumbent bike with a back rest that’s great for people with arthritis and asked her if she could find a used one. She did and I bought it for 67% less than the new purchase price. Score! The van was now full of bike and we had to put the middle seats down to fit it in. The old twin XL bed was going back with us, so the bike came out of the van and in went the mattress and frame. The bike was placed on top. When we left to visit friends, the trailer was empty. With every pothole, it bounced. A fender weld failed and the fender bounced up and down on the rotating tire. We bungeed the fender in place,

found a welder, then zoomed to a lumber yard to buy nearly 300 pounds of Tube Sand to strap down in the trailer to reduce the bounce. After visiting other friends, we left for the workshop on a Monday morning. We were so tired we failed to set the hitch properly on the towing ball. Luckily, the trailer fell off on the on-ramp (damaging the lock) rather than on the 290 Expressway. After manually dragging the trailer onto the concrete apron and using much colorful language and a lot of tools, we reattached the hitch with a spare lock. Losing three mounting screws from a fender several states later seemed almost anticlimactic. Many miles and two days later, we were the only ones to arrive at the workshop in West Virginia pulling a trailer. “You pulled a trailer over those mountain switchbacks...!” the participants exclaimed, aghast. They had no idea. The workshop felt surreal after the furniture hauling. Physicists, astronomy, and radio telescopes are fun! Because my college physics course had been four decades ago, I’d reviewed topics like dark matter, gravity, black holes, and supernovae in preparation. I was so grateful that Big Bang referred to the event 13 billion years ago rather than prophetically being associated with our trailer. Vive the Lemery vacations! About the Author: When she’s not struggling with furniture or physics, Linda Lemery llemery@averett.edu is Circulation Manager at Averett University’s Mary B. Blount Library in Danville. She welcomes your comments.

Evince Magazine Page 29 coastal tables. I know conch is not something I’ll be able to ﬁnd at home, so I substituted clams. This is a refreshing summertime soup with a kick.

Make Travel a Culinary Adventure! by Annelle Williams I can’t drive from Martinsville to Danville without thinking about the special restaurants or food sources available between the two, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that when my husband and I travel, I’m planning a culinary adventure while he’s planning the trip. You never know when you’ll be within miles of the best meal you’ve ever eaten or when you can drive an hour out of your way and find homemade pasta or an appetizer of fresh anchovies prepared five ways. I read food magazines, articles online, and talk to friends who love food. With the Internet, you can find information on the special foods available in almost any area of the world.

If you’re like me and enjoy planning your travel around food, let people know you’re looking for an interesting culinary experience and do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone once in awhile. Your friends will go out of their way to tell you where and what to eat as you travel. BTY...What would you consider the special foods in our area? Something we take for granted may be a delicacy or a really different eating opportunity to someone else. When we have company, I like to serve a few things that might be a little different for them: pork barbecue, cheese grits either with shrimp or for breakfast, legal moonshine mixed with fruit and steeped for awhile then served as an aperitif, banana pudding, cornbread, and collards, to name a few.

One thing we’ve found is that the culinary traditions and specialties of an area help visitors become acquainted with that region’s culture and history. One of the best experiences we ever had while traveling was eating in the homes of friends in the Tuscan area of Italy. The food was certainly unbelievable, but even more enjoyable was the relaxed social atmosphere. Eating in Italy is quite a social experience. Stimulating conversation can last for hours around the table, which isn’t to be confused with overeating. While visiting the North Carolina coast I found a new cookbook, Chefs of the Coast, that highlights restaurants from Corolla, North Carolina to Southport, North Carolina. I’ve eaten at many of these restaurants, so it was interesting to read about the chefs and learn about the recipes they shared in the book. One recipe caught my attention, because it was something I had eaten recently in Morehead City. Conch chowder is generally found in the Keys and Bahamas, but it has now made its way to the North Carolina

Summer Clam Chowder (adapted from the Conch Chowder Recipe at the Ruddy Duck Restaurant, Morehead City, NC) 3 (6oz) cans chopped clams (you can use fresh clams, but canned clams work also) 7 cups water 1 (8oz) bottle clam juice 10 medium-size, fresh tomatoes, quartered 2 bay leaves 3 T fresh chopped oregano 3 T fresh basil chiffonade (roll the basil leaves together and slice thinly, yielding thin strips) 6 slices bacon, fried and crumbled, reserve drippings

4 stalks celery halved and chopped 3 carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise and chopped 1 medium sweet onion, diced 5 garlic cloves, minced 3 ears fresh sweet corn Cut corn off cob (scrape cob juice into soup pot with table knife). 1⁄2 T chipotle chili powder 1⁄2 T allspice salt to taste chopped cilantro lime wedges

Combine one can of clams with juice, water, bottle of clam juice, tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, and basil in soup pot. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are falling apart. Fry bacon in large sauté pan until crisp. Remove bacon; add celery and carrots to pan with bacon drippings and cook for a couple of minutes before adding onions and garlic. Finally, add corn and cook until celery, carrots and onions are beginning to soften. Remove bay leaves from tomato mixture in soup pot. With immersion blender, blend the tomato mixture to soup consistency. You can use a regular blender, but an immersion blender is much easier. Chop cooked bacon and add to soup pot along with everything in the sauté pan. Drain the last two cans of clams and add to soup pot. Simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring to combine ﬂavors. Serve garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and lime slices that can be squeezed into chowder Questions or comments? Email me: AnnelleWilliams@comcast.net I look forward to hearing from you!

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Photo Finish

2. Sunburst at the Union Street Dam Overlook/Riverwalk is part of the Art Trail.*

3. Ender’s Enigma at the Danville Science Center, 661 Craghead Street*

Here is a pictorial guide to the Danville Art Trail courtesy of Evince photographer, Von Wellington. He’s also included other outdoor art and oddities for your viewing pleasure. Ride, walk, or bike to all the locations. Then enjoy lunch at one of the picnic tables on the Riverwalk. Thank you to the following sponsors of the Danville Art Trail: Virginia Commission for the Arts; Art Works; Danville Regional Foundation; Danville Regional Medical Center; Danville Parks & Recreation; Comfort Inn & Suites.

1. The Bob Cage sculpture, Points North, is located beside the Historic North Theatre, 629 North Main Street.

4. Ker-Plunk at The Crossing/Riverwalk, 677 Craghead Street*

5. JTI Fountain at the Main Street Plaza

6. Sharing a Story at 111 Main Street Plaza/Riverwalk*

For more info about Von Wellington Photography, visit www.vonwellingtonphotography.com or call 434.770.3553. See more pictures on Facebook.

7. The Old 97 Mural at the intersection of Main Street/Memorial Drive/Craghead Street depicts the1903 wreck of the Old 97 fast mail train in Danville. This 46’ x 74’ canvas welcomes the community and tourists into the heart of The River District.

8. He Always Carried It Wherever He Went at 500 Main Street*

9. The Transportation Mural, 121-125 North Union Street, on the west-facing wall features 1920s streetcar transportation in downtown Danville. The completion of the mural was the ﬁrst step in the overall redevelopment of this area that includes the city’s bus hub parking lot.

10. Bison Head at the North Floyd Street elevation of the 1890 City Market--now a wing of Danville House at 600 Main Street. One of the earliest and most notable uses of decorative terra-cotta, the beautifully crafted bull’s head peers out from a circular recess, a symbol of the building’s original function as a meat market.

Evince Magazine Page 31 12. An Autumn’s Path at the Danville Public Library, 511 Patton Street*

11. Little Girl Reading sculpture, 511 Patton Street, is located at the outside entrance to the Danville Public Library’s Children’s Department on the upper level. 14. Enter the Municipal Building and walk to the landing between the third and fourth ﬂoors to see a 7x17 foot portrait of Danville native, Lady Nancy Langhorne Astor, the ﬁrst woman to sit in the British House of Commons.

13. Mayor Harry Wooding Statue, 418 Patton Street, was erected by the Exchange Club in front of the Municipal Building and reminds visitors of Danville’s mayor who served for 46 years (1892-1938).

15. Tobacco Leaf Trail Markers on Main and Holbrook Streets mark the sidewalk throughout the historic district.

16. Mixed Emotions at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, 975 Main Street*

17. Learn, Explore, Enjoy on the corner of Sutherlin Avenue and Magruders Alley is a gathering spot for guided walking tours and information about other things to see and do in Danville, Pittsylvania County, and Caswell County.

19. The WWI memorial cannon at the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Montague Avenues honors all veterans. The site was developed by the American Legion Danville Post 1097.

18. The Sacred Heart School Mural, 540 Central Boulevard, commemorates Danville’s ﬁrst non-public school founded in 1953. SHS moved from a Victorian house on West Main Street to the current location in 1966. It was named a 2006 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. The mural is on a wall facing the back parking lot.

*To print a copy of the Art Trail, visit www.playdanvilleva.com. Learn more about sites at www.YouTube - Sounds Around Virginia.

20. The bell and trough in Ballou Park on the corner of West Main Street and Park Avenue are two tobacco-related artifacts found near the Nature Center. The bell was used to call everyone to the tobacco auction in the warehouse district and the trough was used by the horses and mules that pulled the tobacco wagons to the warehouses.

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July 2015