Discover 2021 EDITION TWO
Southside
: g n i r u t a e F A look at
n w o t n w o D s ’ e l l i v n a D s l a r u M
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DIGITAL COORDINATOR Elias Weiss
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COVER PAGE: The Wreck of the Old 97 mural, a Virginia historic site representing the seven blocks of the Tobacco Warehouse District. Photo by Lanie Davis/Star-Tribune.
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4 | DISCOVER M AGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
Contents
08
A LIVING HISTORY LESSON: A LOOK AT DANVILLE’S DOWNTOWN MURALS
11
190 MPH MOTORCYCLE RACING RETURNS TO DANVILLE
12
THERE’S A STORY HERE: HOLBROOK-ROSS NEIGHBORHOOD PROVIDES INSIGHTS TO A ONCE SEGREGATED DANVILLE
16
TWO DANVILLE BUSINESSES OFFER UNIQUE ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS
20
NATURAL BRIDGE MAKES FOR A BREATHTAKING DAY TRIP
22
DANVILLE’S ALMAGRO NEIGHBORHOOD TELLS STORY OF COMMUNITY
28-58
DIRECTORY & EVENT LISTINGS SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 5
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8 | DISCOVER M AGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
A LIVING HISTORY LESSON A look at Danville’s downtown murals By Elias Weiss, Star-Tribune
Have you been downtown recently? If you have, you’ve probably noticed three conspicuous displays of public art, each depicting Danville’s storied past to be regarded by tourists and Danville area natives alike. This trilogy of murals, born from the River District Association’s (RDA) now-defunct Historic Murals Program, offers three major contributions to the City of Danville. According to the RDA, the murals fill a void for easily accessible public art in the community, they stimulate economic development in the Historic Districts by attracting tourists to Danville to view the murals, and they provide a panoramic history lesson to tell Danville’s stories with sensitivity and respect, while fostering a sense of pride in the community. “The Downtown Danville Association was the entity that was involved in the three murals,” River District Association Executive Director Diana Schwartz said. “And Wes Hardin, he happened to be the artist chosen for those three projects.” Chicago-born,
Alabama-raised
muralist
Wes
Hardin
was
commissioned for all three projects in Danville’s downtown. Hardin was awarded his first mural commission at the age of 18. Schwartz expounded upon the historical significance of Danville’s three most prominent murals while pointing out smaller murals in the River District, such as the RDA logo and the smaller Coca-Cola mural. “There’s the tobacco market mural on Craghead Street. That was the last of the three that was installed,” Schwartz said. “Of course, the tobacco mural is to commemorate the history of Danville as the epicentre of the tobacco trading market for a long, long time. That mural is very interesting, because there are some depictions in there of people who actually lived and worked in Danville. There is a lot of history there—not only the subject, but the people as well.” The first visible mural when entering downtown from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge is the Wreck of the Old 97, where
The murals depicted commemorates the rich history of Danville, Virginia. Photos by Elias Weiss/ Star-Tribune.
Main Street, Memorial Drive and Craghead Street meet. SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 9
“There’s a lot of history on that wreck that happened in downtown,” Schwartz said. “There’s songs about it—the train that was going too fast around the curve, and unfortunately flew off the track. That mural is commemorating that historic moment in time.” The third major public art project is the transportation mural, located at North Union Street and Spring Street. “That, of course, is to commemorate the trolleys and transport network in Danville,” Schwartz said. “That location is where the transit bus system is, and the trolley system hub is there, so that was an appropriate location.”
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Years of progress and millions of privately-funded dollars have been funneled into revitalizing and beautifying Danville, and as downtown Danville joins Las Vegas and Atlantic City on the list of American cities to boast a Caesar’s casino resort, Danville’s historic districts will only continue to be adorned. “When the River District Association began the Historic Murals Program, our objective was clear,” Schwartz said. “We wanted to do something that would bring people downtown again.” •
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Superbikes race at Virginia International Raceway in Danville Dec. 15, 2020. Photo courtesy of MotoAmerica.
190 MPH
MOTORCYCLE RACING RETURNS TO VIR IN 2021 By Elias Weiss, Star-Tribune
Since 2015, MotoAmerica has partnered with Virginia International Raceway to put on Superbikes at Virginia, a weekend of high-speed thrills and family fun. But after canceling last year’s event April 3, 2020, in the height of uncertainty as the COVID-19 pandemic reached its first spike in the commonwealth, MotoAmerica is excited to bounce back with a return to the River City May 21-23, 2021. “VIR came at a bad time and we had little choice but to cancel it last year with the pandemic,” MotoAmerica Communications Manager Paul Carruthers told the Star-Tribune Wednesday afternoon. “However, we were able to make up for the race so that we still had 20 races in our Superbike championship. We ended up having a good season despite COVID-19 with really good TV and social media numbers and also solid attendance at the races which allowed us to have fans.” What exactly is a “superbike”? According to MotoAmerica, these are 1,000-cubic-centimeter bikes that can travel in excess of 190 miles per hour. Races will be ongoing sunup to sundown in Danville come late May. “We are expecting big things this year as people are hungry to get their lives back to normal and start attending events again,” Carruthers said. “Our series is also fortunate that our races take place in big places that lends itself perfectly to allow people to distance from others if they choose to.”
For years, Danville’s VIR has been the perfect venue for Superbikes at Virginia. “We love the track, the facility and the staff,” Carruthers said. “It always ranks among the favorites for our riders and our teams and we look forward to getting back there this year.” Carruthers said that, in an effort to bounce back from a disappointing 2020 season, MotoAmerica is working on plans to make Superbikes at Virginia more exciting and fun than it has ever been before. “We will have more racing than ever while also having carnivals, et cetra to make the event family friendly,” he shared. “Our goal is to create festival events so there is more to coming to the racetrack than just the races. With that being said, we are expecting the closest competition we’ve every had in our premier Superbike class as there are five or six riders capable of winning races and ultimately the championship.” MotoAmerica considers the 1,300-acre VIR property a “motorsport resort,” that has proven itself to be an entire vacation destination with its number of onsite hotel and lodging options. VIR was built in 1957, and features 2 and a quarter miles of track with seven left-hand corners and ten right-hand corners. “We look forward to getting back to VIR as we all missed going there last year,” Carruthers said.• SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 11
THERE’S A STORY HERE:
Holbrook-Ross neighborhood provides insights to a once segregated Danville By Lanie Davis, Star-Tribune
From the 1880s through the Civil Rights Movement, the Holbrook-
Anne to craftsman stood the homes of doctors, dentists, lawyers
Ross neighborhood in Danville served as the first neighborhood
and educators. There were three churches, two funeral homes, a
for black professionals and families during a time when they were
mini golf course, a community center, a beauty shop, grocery stores
not always welcome in other spaces around town.
and a kindergarten school. Westmoreland Elementary School
In the 1880s, Holbrook and Ross streets were created from the estate of Thomas B. Doe and separated into lots. By 1900, black
was located just down the street, as was Langston High School until 1963.
professionals began building their homes in the community along
One of these professionals was Dr. Bishop Merritt, a dentist
Holbrook and Ross, as well as on Maury, John, Doe, and Gay
who worked as a carpenter prior to attending dental school. He
streets, with help from their communities, each putting their own
served as the general contractor for the building of his brick home
personal touches on their homes.
at 364 Holbrook Street in the early 1950s and built the two-car
In a neighborhood with architectural styles ranging from Queen
12 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
garage behind the home.
The home served as a community center of sorts, with his wife Willette holding meetings
preparation before going to first grade. It was called the Four/Five School.
of the Jack and Jill of America organization.
“You had to be four or five before you could
It also served as a meeting place for
go, and I was in the first graduating class,”
members of the Danville chapter of The Links,
Merritt said.
Incorporated, which was chartered in 1953.
In addition, the family attended Holbrook
Bishetta Merritt, daughter of Bishop and
Street Presbyterian Church just across the
Willette, also remembers her house as a
street from their home.
gathering place for her friends. Growing
Paula Martin Smith recalls skating up and
up, her mother would be home after school,
down Holbrook Street and going over to
and her friends would come by to have
Bishetta’s home in the afternoons after school
a good time.
while her mother taught at Langston. Willette
“Because there were no places for large
always gave Smith a cookie when she visited.
groups to meet other than a church, some of
While Smith lived in the county, she spent
my mom’s clubs would meet in the basement,”
a lot of time in the neighborhood where her
Bishetta said. “...It was a lot of fun.”
mother worked from around fourth grade to
Graduations for Esdelia Boyd’s kindergarten
seventh grade. She remembers playing with
class took place in the Merritts’ basement.
the Hughes’ son Jimmy and going to Dr.
Willette and Mabel Hughes, of Cunningham
Winslow’s home across the street where his
and Hughes Funeral Home down the street,
housekeeper made sandwiches for them.
convinced Boyd, the first black principal at
“It was just a little neighborhood to me,”
Grasty School, to teach the kindergarten
Smith said. “I would play and visit friends on
class out of her home at 310 Holbrook
that street.”
Street, as neighborhood children needed
Pictured below: (L) Currently, the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority house but was once the residence of Worden and Howard Yancey and listed in the Green Book as a tourist home for those traveling. (M) At the entrance to the Holbrook Ross Historic District is a historical marker, with the original Sacred Heart Catholic Church building pictured behind. (R) Bishetta Merritt grew up in this residence at 364 Holbrook Street, which she still owns today. Photos by Lanie Davis/ Star-Tribune.
Smith also attended Calvary Baptist Church,
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 13
the same church where Camilla Williams, the first black woman to secure a contract with a major U.S. opera company, was a parishioner and sang in the choir. Actress Edith Whitman was also a member.
“We loved to go to the Pringle’s restaurant on Sundays and eat,” Smith said. Having a restaurant in the neighborhood was not only convenient for Smith’s family, but for travelers in the area as well.
Smith also remembers meeting up on Holbrook Street when a
A few houses away, 320 Holbrook Street was listed in the Negro
group wanted to visit Prince Edward State Park, a park that was
Motorist Green Book. The home of Worden and Howard Yancey,
created for black use after her father M.C. Martin sued Virginia
the residence was a safe place for black tourists to stay while on
for equal access and use of the state parks.
the road. For travelers, the neighborhood as a whole was able to
“The cars would line up at Bishetta’s house, and we would move on down to the park,” Smith said. “They were such good days.” In 1986, the park merged with Goodwin Lake Recreation Area
meet many needs. The Yancey home was eventually donated to Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
to form Twin Lakes State Park. A historical marker is now placed
Today, a historical marker stands at the head of the
at the junction of Route 360 and Route 621. M.C. Martin now
neighborhood, at the intersection of Holbrook and Ross Streets,
has a park named for him on Memorial Drive.
along with the original building of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Smith also remembers going to Pringle’s Blue Room, which
While the church has since moved twice, it is fitting at the entrance
was located at 358 Holbrook Street. George and Ruth Pringle
to the neighborhood, as Sacred Heart School on West Main
lived upstairs and operated a restaurant in the basement of their
Street was the first school to integrate in the 1960s before it was
house, during a time when black people were not allowed to
mandated by law.
dine in white restaurants. Patrons entered the restaurant through
neighborhood carried a weight that both did not quite understand
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the left side.
For Bishetta and Smith, spending their formative years in the
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14 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
ON-CAMPUS
EARN YOUR
at the time. “I was an only child, so I was always glad to be over on Holbrook Street with my friends over there,” Smith said. “It was different from being out in the country...I was grateful and fortunate to have been a part of that history.”
she taught at Howard University for 33 years, she still owns two properties on Holbrook Street, her parents’ home and the apartments they owned. To find out more about the Holbrook-Ross Historic District, the Danville Historical Society offers an hour-long tour of the district
Bishetta credits the neighborhood with giving her a “very rich
called “There’s a Story Here” and has been for the past 10 years.
experience” of substantial values and friendships that are still
The oral history for the tour was provided by Nannie Geary
maintained to this day. She said the community instilled a deep
Armstrong, Valeria Brodnax, Bertha Bruce and Paula Smith. For
appreciation for all types of people and occupations from nurses
more information about the tours, visit danvillehistory.org. •
to electricians to doctors. “It was a wonderful time period,” she said. “...You name it, they lived on Holbrook or Ross Streets. If you can see it, you can be it, and we had that kind of experience...The community in which we lived had all these different people who were a part of your life that were successful...These were the kinds of people you wanted to be. You wanted to be an upstanding citizen that made contributions to your community and all these people did that.” This, Bishetta said, was a positive, supportive and nurturing environment that made them very strong. While Bishetta currently lives in Washington D.C., where
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Connect with what matters! Find time to play From our family at Danville Parks and Recreation to yours, we hope you will connect with us and then make time with each another in our parks, on our trails, or in our programs! Visit our website, sign up for our newsletter, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, or download the PlayDanvilleVA app on iTunes and Google Play. www.PlayDanvilleVA.com | @PlayDanville | (434) 799-5200 | playdanvilleva@danvilleva.gov
Two Danville businesses offer unique
ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS
By Lanie Davis, Star-Tribune When thinking about making her life-long dream of owning a
Her next step was to research escape rooms and look into locations in Danville that would support her vision. After finding
business a reality, Christie Wall knew she wanted to do something
out about the River District Association’s Dream Launch program,
entertainment-related. She wanted to create an atmosphere that
she decided it was now or never.
was unique and memorable.
“I started really getting my business plan together, and I started
“Every idea I ever had was entertainment,” Wall said. “I’ve
calling escape rooms all over the country in cities that were the
always loved event planning and creating atmospheres
same size as Danville,” Wall said. “...Out of the group of people I
and memories.”
talked to, half of them asked how much space I could get because
Her idea of opening an escape room locally came after she
I needed to add axe throwing.”
tried one in Charleson, South Carolina and fell in love with the
So Wall decided to create a business plan that would offer two
concept, its creativity and how it made participants interact with
experiences in one, and as the plan took shape, axe throwing
each other.
became the prominent part.
16 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
“
We wanted to be somewhere people come to enjoy time together that is really great for families. Grizzly’s Hatchet House opened at 680 Lynn Street in the
“We have all sorts of games,” Wall said. “We have checkers,
summer of 2019, sporting a lodge-style design complete with a
chess, scrabble. We have a patio where you can play cornhole.
bar and brick fireplace.
It’s not just axe throwing. We wanted to be somewhere people
“I wanted to bring something to Danville that we didn’t already
come to enjoy time together that is really great for families. You’ve
have and was upper scale,” Wall said. “It wasn’t done on a dime.
got teenagers that don’t really want to be stuck with their families
It wasn’t tremendously expensive, but it was well thought out.”
but will go axe throwing.”
River City Escapes opened in the same location in November 2019, which includes two rooms with one under construction. Even with capacity setbacks early on due to COVID-19, which closed the business for several months, the businesses have now come to be family entertainment destinations, especially the lounging area at Grizzly’s.
The pandemic shut down did offer them time to finish a patio, which was completed with the help of a grant from the city. Once the venue opened again, it offered for more space for customers and for bands to perform. For anyone who may be hesitant to try axe throwing, Wall encourages them to come down to Grizzly’s, have a drink and a SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 17
snack and just watch. In an “extremely controlled environment”
and get out of their comfort zone, and they will see that the city
with coaches to guide the way, the activity’s bark sounds worse
has made unbelievable strides.”
than its bite.
She hopes that anyone who has a dream of owning a business
“Once you do it, it really has a different feel than you expect it
like she did will take advantage of the resources offered for
to,” Wall said. “We’ve had people come in that just wanted to
entrepreneurs through many avenues, including the office of
come see it because they thought it was the craziest thing they’ve
economic development, the River District Association and the
ever heard of, and they thought it was irresponsible...they’re
Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce, and she is
some of our best customers now.”
willing to give advice.
With her businesses, Wall is happy that she can help in the growth of her hometown.
Wall is beginning work to open some more Grizzly’s locations throughout the region.
“I still see a lot of people on social media that don’t realize what
For more information on Grizzly’s Hatchet House and River
Danville has to offer, what has changed,” Wall said. “...They
City Escapes, visit www.grizzlyshatchet.com and www.
have to step out of that box of things they go in on a regular basis
rivercityescapes.com.•
18 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
Pictured: Christy Wall takes us on a tour of the Grizzly’s Hatchet House. From axe throwing, to an Alice in Wonderland inspired escape room at River City Escapes, to a cozy lodge-style lounge area where you can enjoy a beverage from the Beer Den, Grizzly’s Hatchet House offers something for every member of the family. Photos by Lanie Davis/Star-Tribune.
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 19
NATURAL BRIDGE
MAKES FOR A BREATHTAKING, BUT SAFE DAY TRIP DESTINATION DURING PANDEMIC By Elias Weiss, Star-Tribune Home of Mother Nature’s enormous and breathtaking rock bridge of Rockbridge County, Natural Bridge sits in the southern end of the Shenandoah Valley flanked by the Blue Ridge Mountains.
famous artists to paint and illustrate it. “Natural Bridge State Park is a global crossroads of diverse people collectively sharing the wonder of nature,” Jones said.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Natural Bridge makes for
The Natural Bridge now stands tall as a National Historic
a great outdoor venue to visit safely, and the park’s management
Landmark and the gateway to the historic and beautiful Cedar
is ready to welcome guests from all over Virginia and beyond.
Creek Trail, and the Monacan Indian Living History Village.
“All of our trails are open,” said Jim Jones, park manager. “The Blue Ridge Trail, which is 3.6 miles, it’s open. The Cedar Creek trail, where the bridge and Lace Falls... it’s open.”
The Natural Bridge Caverns, museums, a hotel and conference center, and restaurants surround the nature park.
For years, Natural Bridge was a mountain retreat, drawing
“Growing up near and working at Natural Bridge in my early
visitors from all over to view the awe-inspiring nature-sculpted
years may be the true source of my 40 years of commitment to
arch that soars high above Cedar Creek. Once among our
the protection and enjoyment of our National Parks,” added
nation’s most visited natural wonders and known as One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the Modern World, the Bridge inspired the Monacan Indians to worship it, young George Washington to survey it, Thomas Jefferson to purchase it, and 20 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. Interested in visiting? Just set your map to the town of Natural Bridge, Virginia, 24578. •
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 21
DANVILLE’S ALMAGRO NEIGHBORHOOD TELLS STORY OF COMMUNITY By Lanie Davis, Star-Tribune
Pastor Ruby Woodson built her first church in Almagro at least 60 years ago. Photo by Lanie Davis/Star-Tribune.
22 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
Since 1976, Rev. Dr. Cecil Bridgeforth, Sr. has been preaching at Shiloh Baptist Church on Betts Street in Danville. The church’s home, the Almagro community, became Bridgeforth’s home, and over the years, he has continued to advocate for the community that so many black Danvillians have flourished from. While its exact establishment date is unknown, Almagro was a town to itself just west of Danville, and according to Bridgeforth, was incorporated in Chatham. The town, located off of what is now Industrial Drive, had its own post office and police department. Bridgeforth said it was one of the very few black towns in the country. “There were only about a handful of black incorporated towns in the United States, and Almagro was one of them,” Bridgeforth, Sr. said. A THRIVING COMMUNITY Eventually, Almagro was annexed into Danville, but continued to be self-sufficient, with its grocery stores, school, a baseball field and several community churches. One of those churches belonged to Pastor Ruby Woodson, a true pioneer during a time where women didn’t usually stand in front of a congregation and preach. Ruby Woodson built Mt. ZIon United Holy Church on Betts Street. Grandson Jimmie Woodson was a co-pastor at the church while his grandmother was still living, before it was turned over to Barry Adams. “She was a tremendous woman,” Woodson said. “She founded five churches from the ground-up and erected about six. She was an amazing woman in her day.” Although Ruby Woodson died around 30 years ago, her church with painted bricks and green windows still stands today, at least sixty years later. “Almagro was a tremendous community of persons, and it was a wide church community,” Woodson said. “You had Shiloh up the street from my grandmother. You had Bibleway founded by Bishop Campbell of course... There was a church on every hill.” Winslow Hospital, which was the black community’s only option for care, was also located on Betts Street. According to a sign outside of the still standing hospital building, in the early 1920s, the only facility for black Danvillians to receive care was in a ward at the Danville Community Hospital on Jefferson Avenue, and black doctors had nowhere to practice. In 1940, the Winslow Hospital was built, named after Dr. Albert Lincoln Winslow, who was the second black doctor in Danville to open a medical practice.
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 23
NAACP Danville Branch President Tommy Bennett remembers visiting his grandmother in the hospital before she passed away, and Bridgeforth said those injured in the marches of the Danville Civil Rights Movement were sent to Winslow to be treated. “During the Civil Rights Movement, people’s heads were burst open, beaten up, arms broken,” Bridgeforth, Sr. said. “All of the African Americans did. That’s the only place they could go.” In the 1960s, the hospital merged with Danville Memorial. The building has since served as the Danville Health Department and Ashwood Home for Adults. The sign said that Rev. George Lovelace purchased the building in Oct. 2009 and intended to open Winslow Loving Care Center in June 2012, paying homage to the building’s roots. While the Winslow Loving Care name still rests on the building, it currently sits closed and vacant. Ed Thompson’s great grandfather, William Betts, ran Almagro’s general post office prior to annexation into Danville. Betts was often called the “mayor of Almagro.” Thompson’s grandfather, Gustavious Aldolphus Betts, had a telegraph machine at his house when he worked for Western Union. Thompson recalls his grandfather receiving telegrams, printing them and delivering them to those in the neighborhood. “I remember that he delivered them to families who had lost family members in the Vietnam War,” Thompson said. In addition, he ran a store in the neighborhood and also knew how to cane chairs. He also ran an upholstery shop and was well known in the region for his work. He would travel to churches all over the state to work on their pews. 24 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
Thompson’s family lineage in Almagro dates back to 1876 when his great grandparents Henry and Jane Betts moved to the neighborhood from Halifax County. As far as Thompson is aware, the community was full of orchards back then. Thompson grew up on the street that was named after his family and currently lives in New York. Oak Hill Cemetery, established in 1901, is also a part of the Almagro community. While acquired by the city in 1931, it was the only burial place for black people in Danville long before and after. “That’s all we had was the black cemetery,” Bennett said. “All of my family members are at Oak Hill. My family plot is at Oak Hill.” In addition, Peters Park on Foster Street, which is designated by a Historical Marker, is the former baseball diamond where black leagues played. James Peters, Sr. opened the park, also called the Almagro Baseball Stadium, in 1948. Peters sponsored the Danville All-Stars, who played at the park. According to the marker, the stadium was state of the art and was among the fist in the country to have lights for nighttime usage. “Peters Park was the highlight of Almagro,” Bridgeforth said. “It was the first ballpark with lights. It’s historical in that they began to have night games, and it was the only field available. The white baseball team would come over and use it.” Shiloh Baptist Church eventually purchased the park and sold half to the Boys and Girls Club for their Danville facility. LIVING IN ALMAGRO
“I had great teachers,” Stevens said. “…We had one little library, and that’s where I think I lived. I think I read every book in that library…I account the foundation for my going on to Spelman to that little school.” Growing up, Elizabeth used to love playing with the neighborhood children, as 15 to 20 of them would play outside under the streetlights. Cora Towns, a teacher in adult education and an adjunct professor at Danville Community College, also grew up in the Almagro neighborhood and recalls having nearly every necessity in the area, so they rarely had to leave. She said she had a “very happy childhood” there in the community where everyone knew each other. “We really had lots of fun,” Towns said. “...We used to do
Over the years, the Almagro community has been home to several families, with children that have grown up to be successful in several different professions. Elizabeth and Albert Harris, 91 and 96 respectively, have made their home in the Almagro community. Over their 74 years of marriage, they raised three children who have grown up and moved on to become a teacher, a nurse and an airport manager. Elizabeth has lived in the neighborhood since she was a young girl and remembers a time when Industrial Drive was an unpaved Diamond Street. She recalls walking to the two-room schoolhouse where she got her education. “We called it Almagro School,” Elizabeth said. “...We had two or three teachers there. We didn’t have a cafeteria, but we would carry potatoes or onions or something like that, and the teachers would cook our lunch like that.” Built on land donated by William Betts, neighborhood children were taught at the community school prior to Gibson Elementary School’s opening. After the larger school opened on Foster Street, the schoolhouse served as a kindergarten for neighborhood children. It eventually became an outreach center. Dr. Delores Betts Stevens, aunt to Ed Thompson, grew up in Almagro, leaving upon her high school graduation to continue her studies at Spelman College in Atlanta, where she has stayed. While she has a different perspective on growing up in the neighborhood than her nephew, she credits her early love of reading, which later turned into a career as an English professor at Morehouse College, to her childhood teachers at Almagro School.
Pictured (left to right): (1) The former Winslow Hospital, most recently Winslow Loving Care, still stands on Betts Street. (2) The Almagro Outreach Center served as a school for the children in the community. (3) Established in 1901, Oak Hill Cemetery was the only place where black people could be buried at the time. (4) Recognized by a historical marker, Peters Park was home to the Danville All-Stars, a black baseball team.
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 25
skate parties, as most of us would get skates for Christmas, and we’d just skate in the street. People [in cars] would move out of your way.” IT TAKES A VILLAGE Those who lived or spent time in the community know it as a “big family,” including Cecil Bridgeforth, Jr., who practically grew up in the neighborhood where his father preached. “The saying is that it takes a village to raise a child, and I consider the Almagro community a village where everyone took part in raising everybody’s child,” Bridgeforth, Jr. said. “It’s a wonderful, beautiful community of well rounded people.” Bridgeforth, Jr. calls himself a “proud product” of Almagro, where he was raised in the church, baptized, started playing music and ultimately gave his first sermon.
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FUTURE OF ALMAGRO Over the years, Bridgeforth, Sr. has worked to see the neighborhood flourish and advocated for improvements such as updated sewage, the addition of sidewalks and the widening of streets, none of which have happened yet. While Peters Park is marked as historical, Bridgeforth, Sr. wants the entire neighborhood to be recognized for its history. “I’ve tried to keep it in the forefront before it disappears,” he said. “...After a while, the Almagro we once knew, we won’t know anymore.” Since 1976, Bridgeforth, Sr. has seen several changes in the neighborhood, including families moving away and young people venturing off to other opportunities.
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“A lot of people that were here when I got here are gone,” Bridgeforth, Sr. said. “The streets are vacant...the young people have come through, went to school, graduated and left, so we have a skeleton of Almagro now.” The NAACP Danville Branch would also like to see life brought back to the neighborhood that holds so much history. “As the NAACP, we would love to see that whole community, especially since it used to be incorporated, revamped and become a historical site for Danville,” Bennett said. • 26 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
CONTACT A MEMBER FROM OUR TEAM TODAY! Kirby Wright Craig Warren Tammy Wright-Warren ••• 2332 N. Main Street • Danville, VA 24540 Phone: (434) 835-4949 | Fax: (434) 262-4138
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Attractions
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY Danville Art Trail 111 Main Street, Danville
Danville Concert Association P.O. Box 11284, Danville
Danville Little Theatre P.O. Box 3523, Danville
Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History 975 Main St., Danville
Danville Symphony Orchestra P.O. Box 11491, Danville
Downtown Danville Murals Gretna Little Theatre 101 Main St., Gretna
Gretna Theatre 107 N. Main St., Gretna
Main Street Art Collective 326 Main St., Unit 100, Danville
The North Theatre 629 North Main St., Danville
Reid Street Gallery 24 Reid St., Chatham
River District Artisans 411 Main St., Danville 28 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
434-792-9242 danvilleconcert.org danvilleconcert@gmail.com stagemanager@danvillelittletheatre.org 434-793-5644 cb@danvillemuseum.org richard@danvillemuseum.org 434-797-2666 macnet@wildblue.net 434-791-0210 riverdistrictassociation@gmail.com gretnalittletheatre101@gmail.com 434-656-5377 thegretnatheatre.com 434-802-2017 434-793-SHOW (7469) wayne@waynealanmagic.com 434-203-8062 adavis@reidstreetgallery.com 434-228-4125 sgusler@thearcofsouthside.org
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History
Danville Sci
ence Center
AAF Tank Musuem
American Armored Foundation Tank Museum 3401 U.S. Highway 29, Danville
Birthplace of Lady Astor 117 Broad St., Danville
Cedar Forest Grist Mill 7929 Straightstone Rd., Long Island
Chatham Hall
434-836-5323 tankmuseum@gamewood.net aaftankmuseum.com 434-793-6472 langhornehouse.org 434-432-2172 pco1767@gmail.com
800 Chatham Hall Cir., Chatham
434-432-2941 admission@chathamhall.org
Danville Welcome Center
434-793-4636
Crossing at the Dan
434-793-4636
Danville Historical Society P.O. Box 6, Danville
Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History 975 Main St., Danville
Danville Science Center 677 Craghead St., Danville
historicalarcheologist@yahoo.com 434-793-5644 cb@danvillemuseum.org 434-791-5160 dscgs@smv.org
Downtown Danville Murals
434-791-0210 riverdistrictassociation@gmail.com
Green Hill Cemetery
434-793-5644 cb@danvillemuseum.org
Grove Street Cemetery
434-793-5644 cb@danvillemuseum.org
940 Grove St., Danville 30 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
HISTORY (continued) Hargrave Military Academy Historic Marker
434-432-2481 admissions@hargrave.edu
200 Military Dr., Chatham
434-793-6472 langhornehouse.org patmaurakis@verizon.net
Langhorne House 117 Broad St., Danville
Millionaires Row
434-793-5644 cb@danvillemuseum.org
975 Main St., Danville
Mount Airy Roller Mill
434-432-2172 pco1767@gmail.com
4425 Johnson Mill Rd., Gretna
The National Cemetery
704-636-2661 cb@danvillemuseum.org
721 Lee St., Danville
The National Tobacco-Textile Museum
434-432-8026
19783 U.S. Hwy. 29 S, Chatham
Pittsylvania Court House Historic Marker
434-432-2041 pco1767@gmail.com
11 Bank St., Chatham
Pittsylvania County Historical Society
434-770-3258 pco1767@gmail.com
Pittsylvania County History Research Center & Library
434-432-8931 info@pcplib.org
340 Whitehead St., Chatham
Schoolfield Museum & Cultural Center
434-792-6763 SchoolfieldPreservation@cox.net
917 West Main St., Danville
The Secrets Inside - Guided Walking Tour
434-770-1974 joycewilburn@gmail.com
P.O. Box 6, Danville
434-432-1085 info@simpsonfuneralmuseum.com simpson@comcast.net
Simpson Funeral Museum 16 South Main St., Danville
Tales of Tobacco, Textiles & Trains - Guided Walking Tour P.O. Box 6, Danville
There’s A Story Here - Guided Walking Tour P.O. Box 6, Danville
434-770-1974 joycewilburn@gmail.com 434-770-1974 joycewilburn@gmail.com
Town of Chatham Walking Tour 16A Court Pl., Chatham
Veterans Memorial - Danville 302 River Park Dr., Danville
Yates Tavern US-29 BUS, Gretna
434-793-0884 debra@cfdrr.org 434-656-2958 pco1767@gmail.com
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 31
Recreation
INDOOR RECREATION Ballou Park Senior Center 760 West Main St., Danville
Danville Stadium Cinemas 12 3601 Riverside Dr., Danville
Danville Science Center & Virtual Dome 677 Craghead St., Danville
Main Street Art Collective 326 Main St., Unit 100, Danville
The Gretna Theatre 107 North Main St., Gretna
The North Theatre 629 North Main St., Danville
Skatetown of Danville 1049 Piney Forest Rd., Danville
Danville Family YMCA 215 Riverside Dr., Danville 32 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
434-799-5216 bynumem@danvilleva.gov 434-792-9885 434-791-5160 dscgs@smv.org 434-602-2017 mainstreetartcollective.com 434-656-3377 thegretnatheatre@gmail.com 434-793-SHOW (7469) wayne@waynealanmagic.com 434-835-0011 skatetown@verizon.net 434-792-0621
OUTDOOR RECREATION Abreu-Grogan Park
434-799-5215
2020 Memorial Dr., Danville
Anglers Park
434-799-5215
350 Northside Dr., Danville
Anglers Ridge and Dan Daniel Mountain Bike System 350 Northside Dr., Danville 302 River Park Dr., Danville
Ballou Park
434-799-5215
434-799-5215
760 West Main St., Danville
Birch Creek Motor Sports
434-836-7629 carlsmail1@comcast.net
12725 Kentuck Rd., Sutherlin
Brosville Walking Track
434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org
195 Bulldog Ln., Danville
Cedar’s Country Club
434-656-8036
1029 Anderson Mill Rd., Chatham
Coates Bark Park
434-799-5150
1727 Westover Dr., Danville
Camilla Williams Park
434-799-5215
700 Memorial Dr., Danville
Cavalier Park
434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org
11650 US Hwy 29 North, Chatham
Cooper’s Radio Controlled Race Center 4000 Sago Rd., Callands
Dan Daniel Park
434-724-7342 434-799-5215
302 River Park Dr., Danville
Danville Boat Rental
434-799-5150
2020 Memorial Dr., Danville
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SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 33
Recreation
OUTDOOR RECREATION (continued) Danville Parks & Recreation 125 N Floyd St., Danville
Danville Pittsylvania County Fairgrounds 2400 Cavalier Rd., Ringgold
Doyle Thomas Park 827 Green St., Danville
434-799-5200 sgrinwo@danvilleva.gov 434-822-6850 info@dpcfairgrounds.com 434-799-5215
Elba Park
434-656-6572 townhall@townofgretna.org
Elkhorn Lake & Camp Grounds
434-432-9203 kennytinaelkhorn@yahoo.com
2500 Elkhorn Rd., Java
Franklin Junction Historic Railroad Park Across from 105 Main St., Gretna
Gretna Town Trail Whitehorn Trail
Grove Park 100 Southland Dr., Danville
H.B. Moorefield Park Riverside Dr., Danville
Hawk Park 201 Coffey St., Gretna
434-656-6572 townhall@townofgretna.org Trailhead at the Centra Medical Building in Gretna 434-799-5215 434-799-5215 434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org
JTI Fountain 215 Main St., Danville
M.C. Martin Park Memorial Dr., Danville
Martinsville Speedway 340 Speedway Rd., Ridgeway
Paradise Lake & Campground
34 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
434-799-5215 276-956-7225 434-836-2620 1-866-836-2126 vaisforcampers@gmail.com
OUTDOOR RECREATION (continued) Phillip Wyatt Skate Park 302 River Park Dr., Danville
Pittsylvania County Parks & Recreation 18 Depot St., St. 508, Chatham
Pumpkin Creek Park 315 Taylor Dr., Danville
Richmond and Danville Rail Trail/ Ringgold Rail Trail 155 Ringgold Depot Rd., Ringgold
Riverwalk Trail 111 Main St., Danville
Smith Mountain Dock & Lodge 188 Locust Ln., Penhook
Smith Mountain Farm & Stables 7661 Grassland Dr., Sandy Level
Smith Mountain Lake & Dam Visitor’s Center 2072 Ford Rd., Sandy Level
South Boston Speedway 1188 James D. Hagood Hwy, South Boston
Southern Hills Golf Course 188 Stokesland Ave., Danville
Tiny Town Golf 643 Arnett Blvd., Danville
Titan Park 1160 Tunstall High Rd., Dry Fork
Virginia International Raceway 1245 Pine Tree Rd., Alton
White Oak Mountain Wildlife Management Area Chatham, VA 24531
Wildcat Park 5875 Kentuck Rd., Ringgold
Zipline 302 River Park Dr., Danville
434-799-5215 434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org 434-799-5215 434-432-7736 434-799-5215 540-565-0222 434-927-5199 steve@smithmountainstables.com 540-985-2587 434-572-4947 info@southbostonspeedway.com 434-793-2582 golfsouthernhills@gmail.com 434-799-0142 434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org 434-822-7700 info@VIRnow.com 804-367-1000 434-432-7736 recreation@pittgov.org 434-799-5150
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 35
Schools
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY www.pcs.k12.va.us
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY School Board
Alternative School
434-432-8185
Brosville Elementary School
434-685-7787
Chatham Elementary School
434-432-5441
Chatham Middle School
434-432-2169
Pittsylvania County Schools P.O. Box 232, Chatham *School Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the School Board office.
Chatham High School
434-432-8305
Dan River Middle School
434-822-6027
Dan River High School
434-822-7081
Gretna Elementary School
434-630-1808
Gretna Middle School
434-656-2217
Gretna High School
434-656-2246
John L. Hurt Elementary School
434-324-7231
Kentuck Elementary School
434-822-5944
Mt. Airy Elementary School
434-630-1816
Pittsylvania Career & Technical Cntr
434-432-9416
Southside Elementary School
434-836-0006
Stony Mill Elementary School
434-685-7545
Tunstall Middle School
434-724-7086
Tunstall High School
434-724-7111
Twin Springs Elementary School
434-724-2666
Union Hall Elementary School
434-724-7010
36 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
434-432-2761 888-440-6520 pcs.k12.va.us
Superintendent: Dr. Mark R. Jones 434-432-2761 P.O. Box 232, Chatham Banister District: Rev. Raymond Calvin Ramsey Sr. 7153 Halifax Rd., Chatham
434-251-7157 rramsey@pcs.k12.va.us
Callands-Gretna District: Calvin D. Doss P.O. Box 100, Gretna
434-656-3206 cdoss@pcs.k12.va.us
Chatham-Blairs District: Sam Burton 492 Tobacco Road, Dry Fork
434-724-4245 sburton@pcs.k12.va.us
Dan River District: Cassandra F. Crump P.O. Box 252, Ringgold
434-822-8866 cccrump@pcs.k12.va.us
Staunton River District: Don C. Moon 3605 Level Run Rd., Hurt
434-324-4115 dmoon@pcs.k12.va.us
Tunstall District: George Henderson 568 F. C. Beverly Rd., Dry Fork
434-770-8933 ghenderson@pcs.k12.va.us
Westover District: Kevin Mills 2514 Franklin trnpk, Danville
434-836-6742 kmills@pcs.k12.va.us
DANVILLE www.danvillepublicschools.org Grove Park Preschool
434-799-6437
Northside Preschool
434-773-8301
Forest Hills Elementary School
434-799-6430
G.L.H. Johnson Elementary School
434-799-6433
Park Avenue Elementary School
434-799-6452
Schoolfield Elementary School
434-799-6455
Woodberry Hills Elementary School
434-799-6466
Woodrow Wilson Intermediate School
434-773-8204
E.A. Gibson Elementary School
434-799-6426
O.T. Bonner Middle School
434-799-6446
Westwood Middle School
434-797-8860
Galileo High School
434-773-8186
George Washington High School
434-799-6410
Danville Alternative Program at J.M. Langston Campus
434-799-5249
Adult & Continuing Education Center
434-799-6471
W.W. Moore Jr. Education Program
434-773-8170
DANVILLE School Board *School Board meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:00 PM in the Danville Room of the School Board Office, 341 Main Street, Danville, VA
Superintendent: Dr. Angela Hairston
ahairston@mail.dps.k12.va.us
School Board: Renee Hughes
rhughes@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Dr. Philip Campbell
pcampbell@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Tyrell Payne
tpayne1@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Charles McWilliams
cmcwilliams@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Brandon Atkins
batkins@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Ty’Quan Graves
tgraves@mail.dps.k12.va.us
Crystal Cobbs
ccobbs@@mail.dps.k12.va.us
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 37
Government
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY Board of Supervisers *Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Chatham Community Center art room (may change soon).
Chatham-Blairs District: Chairman: Robert “Bob” Warren P.O. Box 11718, Danville
434-770-7607 robert.warren@pittgov.org
Banister District: Dr. Charles H. Miller, Jr. 184 Friendship Rd, Chatham
434-489-8525
Callands-Gretna District: Ben L. Farmer 3855 West Gretna Rd., Gretna
434-770-8427 jerry.hagerman@pittgov.org
Dan River District: Joe Davis 2749 Kentuck Rd., Ringgold
434-770-7553 joe.davis@pittgov.org
Staunton River District: Tim W. Dudley
434-713-0502 Tim.Dudley@pittgov.org
Tunstall District: William “Vic” Ingram
434-713-1649 Vic.Ingram@pittgov.org
Westover District: Vice Chairman Ronald Scearce 2133 Stony Mill Rd., Danville
434-685-1843 ronald.scearce@pittgov.org
County Administrator: David Smitherman P.O. Box 426/ 1 Center St., Chatham
434-432-7710 david.smitherman@pittgov.org
County Attorney: J. Vaden Hunt, Esq.
434-432-7720 vaden.hunt@pittgov.org
38 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY www.pittgov.org Circuit Court Clerk: Hon. Mark W. Scarce P.O. Drawer 31, Chatham
434-432-7887
Commissioner of Revenue: Robin Coles-Gourd P.O. Box 272, Chatham
434-432-7940
Sheriff: Michael W. Taylor P.O. Box 407, Chatham
434-432-7800
Treasurer: Vincent Shorter P.O. Box 230, Chatham
434-432-7960
Public Relations Manager: Caleb K. Ayers
434-432-3575 Caleb.Ayers@pittgov.org
Commonwealth’s Attorney: Robert “Bryan” Haskins P.O. Box 1068, Chatham
434-432-7900
County Administrator: David Smitherman P.O. Box 426, Chatham
434-432-7710 david.smitherman@pittgov.org
CHATHAM TOWN COUNCIL P.O. Box 370 • Chatham • (434) 432-9515 www.chatham-va.gov Mayor: William Pace P.O. Box 212, Chatham
804-694-6143 chathamwap@gmail.com
Town Council Members: Janet B. Bishop 610 South Main St., Chatham
434-432-2714 jbishop@chatham-va.gov
William B. Black 434-432-7721 338 North Main St., Chatham wblack@chatham-va.gov Robert B. Thompson P.O. Box 231, Chatham, VA
434-432-8763 - Home 434-432-6211 – Work rthompson@chatham-va.gov
Andrew D. Wall P.O. Box 1127, Chatham
434-432-6122 awall@chatham-va.gov
Matt Bell
mbell@chatham-va.gov
Irvin W. Perry 348 S. Main St., Chatham
941-740-0268
Interim Treasurer/Clerk: Kelly Hawker Town Manager: Richard Cocke Town Attorney: Adams & Fisk PLC
434-432-2531
Member FDIC
530 Patton Street Danville, VA 24541
434-791-4060
avt@gamewood.net 530 Patton Street Danville, VA 24541
434-791-4060
avt@gamewood.net
MICHAEL W. TAYLOR Sheriff
People first. Community first. Forever First.
SM
The Moses Building 21 North Main Street P. O. Box 407 • Chatham, Virginia 24531 Email: mike.taylor@pittgov.org Office: (434) 432-7807 or (434) 432-7800 Cell: (434) 441-0160 • Fax: (434) 432-8021 Crime Stoppers: 1-800-791-0044
530 Patton Street Danville, VA 24541
434-791-4060
avt@gamewood.net Turning 65?
Got Questions about Medicare? firstcitizens.com
INSURANCE SALES & SERVICES 2409 Franklin Tpk. Danville, VA Brenda W. McMillian 434.836.2286
Barbara C. Louhoff 434.836.1610
Medicare Part-D Drug Plans • Group Health Plans Dental • Vision • Life • Individual Health Plans (ACA)
Government CITY OF DANVILLE www.danville-va.gov Circuit Court Clerk: Gerald A. Gibson 401 Patton St., Danville
434-799-5168
Commissioner of Revenue: James M. Gillie 311 Memorial Dr., Danville
434-799-5145
Sheriff: Michael Mondul 401 Patton St., Danville
434-799-5135
Treasurer: Sheila Williamson-Branch 311 Memorial Dr., Danville
434-799-5140
Commonwealth’s Attorney: Michael Newman 434-797-1635 341 Main St., St. 200, Danville City Manager: Ken Larking 427 Patton St. 4th flr, Danville
434-799-5100 klarking@danvilleva.org
DANVILLE CITY COUNCIL *Meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers on the fourth floor of City Hall located at 427 Patton Street. Mayor: Alonzo Jones 218 Rockford Plc., Danville
434-250-3231 alonzo.jones@danvilleva.gov
Danville City Council Members:
DANVILLE CITY COUNCIL www.pittgov.org Mayor: R. Keith Motley P.O. Box 472, Gretna
434-656-6406 keith.motley@townofgretna.org
Town Council Members: Michael L. Bond P.O. Box 558, Gretna
434-656-3573 michael.bond@townofgretna.org
James Buckner 125 Eden Plc., Danville
434-688-1589 james.buckner@danvilleva.gov
Dianne Jennings P.O. Box 762, Gretna
434-656-6582 dianne.jennings@townofgretna.org
L.G. Campbell, Jr. 368 Mowbray Arch, Danville
434-793-9493 larry.campbell@danvilleva.gov
434-656-8061 mike.burnette@townofgretna.org
Gary P. Miller, MD 209 Updike Plc., Danville
434-799-0908 gary.miller@danvilleva.gov
Mike Burnette P.O. Box 1227, Gretna
Sherman Saunders 115 Druid Ln., Danville
434-799-8737 sherman.saunders@danvilleva.gov
Deborah Moran P.O. Box 630, Gretna
434-656-6079 deborah.moran@townofgretna.org
James Gilbert P.O. Box 781, Gretna
james.gilbert@townofgretna.org
Jim Hunt 506 Henry St., Gretna
434-656-3653 flowershop@fairpoint.net Attention: Jim Hunt
Barry Mayo 434-792-1041 1100 N. Main St., Apt. B, Danville barry.mayo@danvilleva.gov J. Lee Vogler 118 Grove Park Cir., Danville
434-792-0937 lee.vogler@danvilleva.gov
Madison Whittle 434-251-0926 143 Marshall Terr., Apt 6, Danville madison.whittle@danvilleva.gov
Town Manager: David A. Lilly
Bryant Hood 876 Stokes St., Danville
Town Attorney: Michael Turner
(336) 933-1480 byrant.hood@danvilleva.gov
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Town Clerk/Treasurer: Patsy Thompson Budd 434-656-3989
Government (continued)
HURT TOWN COUNCIL P.O. Box 760, Hurt •(434) 608-0554 *Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Hurt Town Hall. Mayor: Gary Hodnett
mayor@townofhurtva.org
Vice Mayor: Shirley Barksdale-Hill
shirley Barksdale-Hill shirley.barksdale-hill@townofhurtva.org
Town Council Members: E. Collin Adams Jr. 612 Spring St., Hurt
collin.adams@townofhurt.org
Randy Doss
randy.doss@townofhurtva.org
Lorraine L. “Rainy” Clay 204 Grove St., Hurt
434-324-7884 rainy.clay@townofhurtva.org
VIRGINIA HOUSE OF DELEGATES
Steve Watson
steve.watson@townofhurtva.org
Les Adams
Kathy Keesee
kathy.keesee@townofhurtva.gov
Jeffery L. “Jeff” Bowling
jeff.bowling@townofhurtva.gov
Clerk/Treasurer: Susan Frazier Public Works Director: Ed Hodges
UNITED STATES CONGRESS Senators: The Honorable Mark R. Warner 459-A Russell Senate Office Bldg., 202-224-2023 Washington, D.C. The Honorable Tim Kaine 388 Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington, D.C.
202-224-4024
308 Craghead St., Ste. 102A, Danville
434-792-0976
House of Representatives: The Honorable Denver Riggleman
Member Since: 2014 R - Counties of Henry (part) and Pittsylvania (part), City of Martinsville 16th District Capital Office 804-698-1016 General Assembly Bldg. delladams@house.virginia.gov Room Number: 719 P.O. Box 406, Richmond Legislative Assistant: Shani Shorter Secretary During Session: Julia Bouck District Office P.O. Box K, Chatham
434-432-1600
W. Daniel Marshall III Preferred Name: Danny Member Since: 2002 R - Counties of Henry (part) and Pittsylvania (part); City of Danville 14th District Capitol Office 804-698-1014 General Assembly Bldg. deldmarshall@house.virginia.gov Room Number: 702 P.O. Box 406, Richmond
1022 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C.
202-225-4711
Legislative Assistant: Mary K. Franklin Secretary During Session: Jackie Price
308 Craghead St., Ste. 102D, Danville
434-791-2596
District Office P.O. Box 439, Danville
434-797-5861 434-797-2642 (Fax)
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 41
County Information COUNTY INFORMATION
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
Budget Department
434-733-8105
Community Center at Chatham
434-432-3115
City Attorney
434-799-5122
City Manager
434-799-5100
Community Foundation of the Dan River Region
434-793-0884
Clerk of Circuit Court
434-799-5168
Commissioner of Revenue
434-799-5145
Dan River Business Development Center
434-793-9100
Community Development
434-799-5260
Danville Community Market
434-797-8961
Danville Regional Airport
434-799-5110
Danville Public Schools
434-799-6400
Danville Economic Development Office
434-793-1753
Danville Utilities
434-799-5155
434-793-5644
Economic Development
434-793-1753
Danville Museum Fine Arts & History
Emergency Preparedness
434-799-6535
434-799-5200
Finance Department
434-799-5185
Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism
Fire Department
434-799-5226
434-836-6990
Health Department
434-766-9828
Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce
Human Resources
434-799-5241
Danville Science Center
434-799-5160
Jail
434-799-5130
Danville Welcome Center
434-793-4636
Parks and Recreation
434-799-5200
Downtown Danville Association
434-791-4470
Public Works
434-799-5245
Olde Dominion Agricultural Center
434-432-8026
Registrar
434-799-6560
Pittsylvania County Recreation Dept.
434-432-7736
Social Services
434-799-6537
Social Security Administration
800-772-1213
Transit System
434-799-5144
Treasurer’s Office
Veterans Affairs
800-827-1000
434-799-5140
Voter Registration Danville
434-799-6560
Voter Registration Pittsylvania County
434-432-7971
POLICE NON-EMERGENCY NUMBERS Danville Police Department 434-799-5111 Danville Sheriff’s Office
434-799-5135
Pittsylvania County Sheriff
434-432-7800
Mon-Fri 9a-5p 434-432-9515 Chatham Police Department 24 Hours 434-432-2222
Libraries
Pittsylvania County Library
434-432-3271
Pittsylvania Library - Gretna
434-656-2579
Pittsylvania Library - Brosville-Cascade 434-685-1285 Pittsylvania Library – Mount Hermon 434-835-0326 Pittsylvania History Center & Library 434-432-8931
Gretna Police Department
434-656-6123
Hurt Police Department
434-608-0554
Danville Public Library
434-799-5195
Virginia State Police
800-553-3144
Danville Library - Westover
434-799-5152
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County Information (continued)
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY GOVERNMENT TELEPHONE LISTINGS
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY GOVERNMENT TELEPHONE LISTINGS (CONTINUED)
Pittsylvania County All Departments
434-432-7700
Health Department (continued)
Agricultural Development
434-432-7993
Environmental Health
434-432-7758
Animal Control
434-432-7937
Water Programs
434-836-8416
Assistant County Administrator
434-432-7720
Clinic-Danville
434-799-5190
Building Inspections
434-432-7755
Central Accounting
434-432-7743
Clinic-Chatham
434-432-7232
Commissioner of Revenue
434-432-7940
Clinic-Gretna
434-656-1266
Community Policy/Management
434-432-8371
County Administrator
434-432-7710
Courts:
Jail
434-432-7831
Landfill
434-432-7980
Purchasing
434-432-7744
Adult Probation
434-432-7853
Recreation Dept
434-432-7736
Circuit Court Clerk
434-432-7887
Registrar
434-432-7971
Commonwealth Attorney
434-432-7900
School Board
434-432-2761
General District Court Clerk
434-432-7879
Sheriff’s Office
J & D Court Clerk
434-432-7861
From Chatham/Danville
434-432-7800
J & D Court Services Unit
434-432-7864
From Gretna/Hurt
434-656-6211
Magistrate’s Office
434-432-7910
From Whitmell
434-797-9550
Dispatch
434-432-7931
Crime Stoppers
800-791-0044
Dispatch
434-432-7931
Electoral Board
434-432-7798
Emergency Management and Communications:
Social Services Chatham
434-432-7281
Danville
434-799-6543
Gretna
434-656-8407
Communications/Dispatchers
434-432-7931
Director
434-432-7920
Fire Marshall
434-432-7936
Soil Conservation
434-432-7768
434-432-7765
Treasurer’s Office
434-432-7960
Victim/Witness Program
434-432-7854
Farm Services Agency Health Department Pitt./Danville Health District
434-799-5190
Virginia Cooperative Extension
434-432-7770
Child Development Clinic
434-797-1040
Zoning Code Compliance
434-432-7750
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS MUSIC & DANCE Werk It Out Pepsi Building • 434-799-5150
This is a cardio dance class that focuses on legs and ab muscles. Due to COVID-19, $7/class spaces will be limited. You must register for the class by 12 p.m. on the day of class. $35/monthly Registration required.
Tuesdays, Mar. 2 - Apr. 27
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Rock Out in Pound. Bring your own mat; drumsticks will be provided. This fun class will help you burn approximately 500 calories. Sweat with instructors Erin and $7/class Kari. Monthly membership available for $35. Due to COVID-19 spaces will be $35/monthly limited. Registration required. You must register for the class by 12 p.m. on the day of class.
Mondays & Wednesdays
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Join yoga instructors for a free yoga flow in the beautiful parks around Danville. Participants are required to sign up in NO FEE advance. Please be sure to bring a mat. All levels of yoga are welcome.
Saturday, Mar. 27, 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. Apr. 10, 24
Just breathe! Beat the Monday blues and focus your mind on positive thinking. Sign up to NO FEE receive the Zoom link.
Mondays, Jan. 4 - Mar. 29
12 p.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Join in on an intimate conversation where we will discover how to take care of and maintain feminine health reproductive NO FEE health. Zoom links will be sent to your email 15 minutes before the start of class.
Wednesday, Mar. 24
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Join in each month to check in with mental health professionals for support during the pandemic. The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone. Zoom in to talk to mental NO FEE health professionals on how to cope during a time where social interactions are limited. Zoom links will be sent to your email 15 minutes before the start of class.
Thursday, Mar. 18 & Apr. 15
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
FITNESS & EXERCISE
Pound Fitness Pepsi Building • 434- 799-5150
Yoga in the Park Various Parks • 434-799-5150
WELLNESS Mid-Day Meditation Zoom • 434-799-5150w
Hey, Ladies! Part 2 Zoom • 434-799-5150
How are you doing? Zoom • 434-799-5150
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HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS WELLNESS (continued) Our History Zoom • 434-799-5150
Flower Power Zoom • 434-799-5150
Thrive! Initiative Contact Danielle Montague by calling (434) 799-5150 or email montadr@danvilleva.gov.
Learn about various cultures from experts in the field and from the culture itself. This event NO FEE will be virtual. Zoom links will be sent to your email 15 minutes before the start of class.
Wednesday, Mar. 10 & Apr. 14
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
It’s time for the flowers to bloom! Learn how to plant gorgeous flowers for spring and summer from Celia Spillmann of the NO FEE Caswell Flower Company. This event will be virtual. Zoom links will be sent to your email 15 minutes before the start of class.
Wednesday, Apr. 28
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Calling all worksites, churches, schools, and out of school providers to use your amazing influences to change the health status of our region by joining the Thrive! Initiative. Past participants have created a culture of health that has increased employee attendance, productivity, and employee morale.
OUTDOOR On the water Kickoff to Spring Kayaking Abreu-Grogan Park 434-799-5150
Kayak Fishing Basics Abreu-Grogan Park 434-799-5150
Enjoy the spring air during the first kayaking trip of the year! This class is perfect for beginners looking to learn basic kayaking $14 skills. Ages 10 and up. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Register by April 12.
Sunday, Apr. 18
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Leave bank fishing behind for a day of kayak fishing instruction and tips at AbreuGrogan Park. Bait and a limited number of fishing poles will be provided. Register by April 19. Ages 10 and up. Children under $14 12 must be accompanied by an adult. All participants over the age of 16 must have a valid Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries license.
Sunday, Apr. 25
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Experience the serenity of nature while hiking at Ballou Park Nature Trail. During this program we will be using mindfulness NO FEE exercises while we hike to relax our minds and connect with nature and ourselves. Register by April 19.
Saturday, Apr. 24
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Drop by Dan Daniel Park anytime between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to see what Danville’s adventure course has to offer! Try the 400 ft. zip line between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., or try $5/ per activity the three-part challenge course between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Cash only. No registration required.
Saturday, Apr. 17
1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Adventure Programs Mindfulness Hike Ballou Park • 434-799-5150
Open Zip Line & High Ropes Day Skate Park at Dan Daniel Park 434-799-5150
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS Adventure Programs (continued) Ladies’ Zip Skate Park at Dan Daniel Park 434-799-5150
Celebrate Women’s History Month. Join our team of female instructors and spend part of your weekend $12 zip lining. Ride solo or tandem for a thrilling adventure experience. Register by March 15.
Saturday, Mar. 20
1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Socialize and exercise your pup all at once! Enjoy a short, guided hike throughout the trails at Anglers Park with your dog every first and third Sunday of the month, excluding holidays. Wear NO FEE comfortable walking shoes and bring a leash for your dog. Face coverings required. All ages welcome. Registering by the Monday prior to the event appreciated but not required.
Sunday, Mar. 21 & Apr. 18
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Take a hike on the Ballou Park Nature Trial and learn more about the fungus among us! Learn more about decomposers NO FEE and their importance to the environment. Ages 8 and up. Face coverings Required. Register by March 22.
Saturday, Mar. 27
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Join us on Earth Day weekend to enhance the beauty of the River District and do your part in keeping our area clean and green. Gloves, litter-getters, and NO FEE trash bags will be provided. Cosponsored by Dan River Basin Association, Danville Science Center and Danville Parks and Recreation.
Saturday, Apr. 24
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m.
Environmental Education
Trails & Tails Anglers Park• 434-799-5150
Fungus Among Us Ballou Park • 434-799-5150
Dan River Spring Clean up Danville Science Center 434-799-5150
Outdoor Services Adventure Trips 434-799-5150
High and Low Ropes Teambuilding Programs 434-799-5150
All you need is a group of friends or co-workers and we can plan your next outdoor trip! We will work with you on your group size and needs to develop a personalized trip for you and your group. Trips can be booked for the following: kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, riding the zip line and high ropes course experiences. Select a date at 15 business days in advance and call to make your reservations today! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to build cooperation and teamwork skills in a challenging outdoor setting. Programs can be catered to your group needs and are a great choice for your corporate training, civic group, camp, or peer network. All programs require a 15 business day advance notice and are limited by group size.
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PRICE
HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS Outdoor Services Disc Golf at Ballou Park 434-799-5215
Philip Wyatt Memorial Skate Park 434-799-5215
Play a round at the challenging 18-hole course with several new pro and amateur tees. The nine-hole course now has tee pads, signs and a kiosk thanks to three scouts who took on course improvements for their Eagle projects. For event information, check out the kiosk near Hole 1 on the 18-hole course. Freestyle in the park from dawn to dusk. The skate park is unsupervised at all times. Parental supervision is advised for children. Help keep the skate park safe and open to the public by reporting any vandalism to staff. Enjoy the nine-mile paved Riverwalk or the 30+ mile long Anglers Ridge Mountain Bike Trail system including its
Mountain Bike, Hiking, and latest expansion into Dan Daniel Memorial Park. Brochures with handy maps and nature guides are available Walking Trails 434-799-5150
at the Park Services office, the Welcome Center, and on the PlayDanvilleVA app. For details, visit www. danvilletrails.com, call, or download the PlayDanvilleVA app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
ACTIVITIES AT BALLOU Art with Louise Ballou Annex• 434-799-5216
Bob Ross Painting Classes Ballou Annex• 434-799-5216
Ballou Virtual Bingo Zoom • 434-799-5216
Louise Perez will teach her students the wet-onwet technique of oil painting. You will learn how to capture people, places, and things in your life on $31.50/ canvas. Louise’s classes are held Tuesday mornings person at the Ballou Annex. Four-week session, new students are always welcome. Adults 18 and over.
Tuesday, Apr. 6
10 a.m. - 12 pm.
Learn to paint the Bob Ross way. Kathy Anthony, a Certified Ross Instructor and a Wilson Bickford Painting Partner, will help you complete beautiful paintings in just one day. Please bring a roll of paper towels and a 16 x 20 canvas. All other supplies are included. Adults 18 and over.
$70/person
Saturdays
10:30 a.m. 3:30 pm.
Connect with Ballou Recreation Center staff for a fun-filled afternoon of BINGO from your own home! Ballou Recreation Center will be hosting virtual BINGO. We will provide the cards and send an email link through Zoom for you to play. The winner’s prizes will be mailed to them.
NO FEE
Mondays
2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
First Tuesday of each month
11:15 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
Community Activity Kits Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Ballou Choir Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Ballou is partnering with Commonwealth Senior Living to help those who would like to do activities in the comfort of their own homes. The kit will include NO FEE activities such as art projects, puzzles, word searches, and more that will increase your recreation time. They will be delivered to your doorstep. Join the Ballou Choir as it provides the members with social, educational and skill development through music. The choir is in need of male singers especially. Practices are held on the first Tuesday of each month. Ages 50 and over.
NO FEE
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS Community (continued) Earth Day Celebration Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Zoom in for Reading Zoom • 434-799-5216
Join Ballou in our Celebration of Earth Day. The theme for the day will be “Restore our Earth.” You will learn how trees can save the world and how to promote the protection of the environment. We $5/person will plant trees and plants and you will have the opportunity to participate in poetry, song, and most of all how to work together.
Thursday, Apr. 22
11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m.
Zoom in with Ballou Recreation Center for the month of March. We will start on National Read Across America Day. The book readings will be provided NO FEE once a week on Tuesdays and we will send a link via email to join the Zoom meeting.
Tuesdays
2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
This seminar explains Medicare and the coverage options available, including: Supplements, Advantage Plans and Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. The information provided can help you make smarter choices as to the most cost effective and NO FEE best Medicare health plan and options for you. The seminar is for anyone on or soon to be on Medicare, as well as caregivers of those on Medicare. Seminar and refreshments sponsored by Humana.
Tuesday, Apr. 6
5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Optima Health will share information about Medicare. After the session, you will be able to understand your Medicare options, differentiate between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, NO FEE and Medicare Supplement Insurance. You will also learn how Medicare Prescription Drug plans work and familiarize yourself with Medicare Election Periods.
Tuesday, Mar. 30
10 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
You are never too old to color! Coloring encourages adults of all ages to revisit their childhood days of relaxing with a pack of crayons and a coloring book. Adult coloring has been shown to improve NO FEE mood, focus, and memory while calming the nervous system. It’s also a great social hour among our participants. Coloring sheets are provided. Bring your own coloring pencils and a snack or bag lunch.
Wednesdays
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Educational
Welcome to Medicare Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Medicare Basics Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Adult Coloring Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
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PRICE
HEALTHY LIVING & FITNESS Educational Book Swap Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
We have a great selection of books that you can swap out or just take a free book of your choice. This is available NO FEE every day and anyone can come grab books.
Everyday
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Begin your road to an active and healthy lifestyle today. Instructor Dale Pierce will lead an energized workout of low impact aerobics that incorporates dancing and $2/visit toning as well as sculpting with weights and dyna-bands designed to help you move towards your health goals.
Tuesdays & Thursdays
5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Learn to line dance with the savvy Brian Price. He will teach a variety of dances in a fun atmosphere. Learn $3/person new moves, have fun, and make new friends while line dancing.
Mondays & Thursdays
10 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
Join us twice a week and learn how falls are preventable and controllable. In sessions, we will incorporate exercise techniques to strengthen your body and improve your balance. Individually packaged light NO FEE refreshments will be provided. Please wear comfortable clothing. Facemasks are required. Starting the last Monday in March.
Mondays & Wednesdays
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
If you love writing, join us for inspiration, encouragement, and feedback. We will have a NO FEE new writing prompt each month. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Thursday, Apr. 1
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Unwind from your day with mandalas, paint by sticker, and more relaxing arts and crafts. Bring NO FEE your friends and meet new ones. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Mondays, Apr. 12
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Join us for crafts, music, and fun conversation to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Ages 18 and up. NO FEE Registration required.
Wednesday, Mar. 17
5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Fitness Prime Time Fitness Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Southside Urban Line Dance Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
Matter of Balance Ballou Recreation Center 434-799-5216
DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY ADULT PROGRAMS The Write Stuff – Adult Writing Group Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Pro-craft-inators Maker Space• 434-799-5195
St. Paddy’s Day Crafts Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Grimm Readers – Adult Book Club Zoom • 434-799-5195
Are you looking for a “novel” way to pass the time? Join us on Zoom for a lively book discussion and meet others in the community. A free copy of the book will NO FEE be given to the first few patrons to register. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Thursday, Mar. 18 “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab
5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Apr. 15 “The Chalk Man” by C.J. Tudor
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY ADULT PROGRAMS Fandom Forum - Star Trek Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Dungeons & Dragons for Adults Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Unrequired Reading – Classics Book Club Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Bean There, Done That Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Talk Like Shakespeare Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Upcycle for Earth Day Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Make your own LEGO brick creations! Bricks provided, imagination required. All LEGO models NO FEE will be displayed in the Children’s Department. Ages 5 - 12. Registration required. Whether you have been playing for years or are trying it out for the first time, join us for a one-shot adventure and meet other players in the community. NO FEE All experience levels welcome. Characters, dice, and snacks provided. Ages 18 and up. Space is limited. Registration required.
We all learned about the classics in high school. Let’s read them again just for fun! Join our discussion NO FEE for a fresh perspective on these enduring tales. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Monday, Mar. 22
Thursday, Mar. 25 & Apr. 29
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Monday, Mar. 29 “The Giver” by Lois Lowry Monday, Apr. 26 “The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Don’t worry if you spill the beans. Join us to create a unique mosaic using a variety of beans, NO FEE paint, and your imagination. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Thursday, April 8
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Do you know what the words “lackluster,” “dauntless” and “swagger” have in common? These are all words invented by William NO FEE Shakespeare. Learn more about the bard’s lasting legacy with a fun discussion, games, and more. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Tuesday, April 20
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Learn how to upcycle, turning everyday household items into something new and improved. Show your love for the earth and go home with great ideas to turn NO FEE your trash into treasure. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Thursday, Apr. 22
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
50 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
TIME
DATES
PRICE
DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Take-and-Make Kits: Magical Lands Series 434-799-5195
Storytime with Miss Chris Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Mad Scientists Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Tween Craft Night Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Teen Takeover 2nd Floor • 434-799-5195
Youth Dungeons & Dragons Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Dumbledore’s Army Maker Space • 434-799-5195
How to Catch a Leprechaun Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Tree House Tuesday Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Explore Peter Pan’s Neverland and King Arthur’s Camelot with us! Each month we will explore a different world through stories, crafts, recipes and more. Register to reserve your family’s kit by visiting the ‘Programs and Events’ page on www. NO FEE ReadDanvilleVA.com. Pick up kits during library business hours at the 2nd floor service desk. Monthly kits will be available starting on the first business day of each month. First stop, Alice’s Wonderland!
March Tolkien’s Middle Earth April Mario & Luigi’s Mushroom Kingdom
Join Chrislyn for songs, stories, and activities that promote language development and pre-literacy NO FEE skills for children and their parents or caregivers.
Tuesdays, Mar. 2 – Apr. 20
11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Put your goggles and lab coats on and explore components of S.T.E.A.M through hands-on NO FEE demonstrations, experiments, and crafts. Ages 7 and up. Registration is required.
Thursday, Apr. 1
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Join us for a night of crafts, music and snacks. Bring your friends and make new ones. Ages 9-14. NO FEE Registration required.
Wednesday, Apr. 7 Sewing 101
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
After-hours at the library is for teens-only! Play video games with friends, make slime, have nerf NO FEE gun battles, eat pizza, and more. Grades 6-12. Registration required.
Friday, Apr. 16
5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Solve puzzles, defeat the monsters, and discover treasure along the way. All experience levels welcome. Characters, dice, and snacks provided. NO FEE Grades 6-12. Space is limited. Registration required.
Saturday, Apr. 10
10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Calling all witches and wizards. Join us monthly as we learn different wizarding subjects, from Herbology and Charms to Defense Against NO FEE the Darks Arts, with crafts, activities and demonstrations. Become a DA member today! Ages 8 and up. Registration is required.
Thursday, Mar. 18 Potions 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Apr. 20 Herbology
Make your own leprechaun trap, go on a treasure hunt to find your own pot of gold, and make your own four leaf clover for luck! Be sure to wear NO FEE green so you don’t get pinched! Ages 6 and up. Registration is required.
Tuesday, Mar. 16
If you’re an adventurer like Jack and Annie from the Magic Tree House, this program is for you! Learn NO FEE about ninjas and twisters, do experiments, and make crafts. Ages 5-12. Registration required.
Tuesdays, Mar. 23 & 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Apr. 20
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 51
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS (continued) Preschool Picassos Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Library Scouts Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Drawing Baby Animals Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Party Like a Unicorn Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Raise the Woof with Dog Man Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Toy Story at the Library & Beyond! Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Earth Day Celebration Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Tinker Tots Auditorium • 434-799-5195
Join us for an evening of finger-painting and fun. Let those creative juices and drinks flow as you create NO FEE your own work of art. Materials and drinks provided. Ages 7 and under. Registration is required.
Thursday, Mar. 25
Become a Library Scout! Join us for our monthly meeting to go over upcoming programs in the community, do explorer-themed activities and NO FEE crafts and make new friends. Ages 7 and up. Registration required.
Tuesdays, Mar. 30 & 4:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. Apr. 27
Learn how to draw cute animals in this beginner’s cartooning class. Ages 10 and up. Registration NO FEE is required.
Tuesday, Mar. 30
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Come dressed in your most colorful clothes and listen to unicorn stories, play games and craft! NO FEE Ages 2-8. Registration is required.
Thursday, Apr. 8
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Meet fellow Bark Knight fans, learn how to draw the world’s greatest canine cop, and play paw- NO FEE some games. Ages 7-14. Registration is required.
Tuesday, Apr. 13
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Learn how to upcycle, turning everyday household items into something new and improved. Show your love for the earth and go home with great NO FEE ideas to turn your trash into treasure. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.
Monday, Apr.19
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Learn more about how you can Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle to help save our planet. Make your own recycled art and participate in our “Recycling Our Reads” book swap by bringing in a gently NO FEE used age appropriate book to swap with others. Become a Planeteer today! Ages 7 and up. Registration is required.
Thursday, Apr. 22
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
A little push, a twist, a turn. Keep those little fingers busy and experimenting in our library Tinkerspace. Explore, create, and learn through interactive S.T.E.A.M. based activities that will engage the NO FEE mind and body as your child builds their fine motor skills and creativity. Ages 5 and under. Registration required.
Monday, Apr. 26
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
52 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
TIME
DATES
PRICE
DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS (continued) Cross Stitch for Kids Maker Space • 434-799-5195
Sew and knot your way through beginner cross stitch patterns. Ages 10 and up. Registration is NO FEE required.
Tuesday, Apr. 27
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
ACTIVITIES AT STONEWALL FITNESS Downtown Stroll Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Workout BINGO Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Fountain Meditation and Zen Garden Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Spring Cardio Workout Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Take in the scenery and fresh air while you take a peek in the storefronts of the local shops. Hike from the clock on upper Main Street to the JTI $2 Fountain. Pack a lunch and enjoy time spent with your friends.
Monday, Mar. 15
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Put a fun twist into working out while enjoying a game of BINGO, a game loved by many and $4 hated by none. Do the exercises that match with your card.
Monday, Mar. 22
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Relax and meditate by listening to the flow of the fountain in the garden of Ballou Park as you find $10 your balance. Afterwards you will create a mini Zen Garden.
Monday, Mar. 29
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Relax and meditate by listening to the flow of the fountain in the garden of Ballou Park as you find $3 your balance. Afterwards you will create a mini Zen Garden.
Monday, Apr. 12, 19, 26
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
“Wheel! Of! Fortune!” Spin the wheel, win some “cash,” buy a vowel, and guess the hidden $5 phrases by guessing letters one at a time.
Wednesday, Mar. 24
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
As a group, you and your friends will get to pick which Wii game you will compete in. Whether it be $5 bowling, tennis, or boxing it’s all up to you.
Wednesday, Mar. 31
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Are you trying to get your summer body together and just don’t know where to start? Attend the Super Salad Fridays and gain knowledge on how $10/ to eat just a little bit healthier. Each Friday there session will be different salads that will be offered; from pasta salad, to a taco salad, and even fruit salads.
Friday, Mar. 19, 26
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Hippity, Hoppity, here comes Petunia the Easter Bunny! Here’s your chance to get your photo taken $7 and have lunch with the Easter Bunny. Registration is from March 1 until March 26.
Friday, Apr. 2
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
SOCIALIZATION Wii Wheel of Fortune Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Wii Choose! Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Super Salad Friday Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
Lunch with the Easter Bunny Stonewall Therapeutic Rec Center 434-799-5199
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 53
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
ACTIVITIES AT STONEWALL SOCIALIZATION (continued) The Great Outdoors: Walk at the YMCA Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
The Great Outdoors: Picnic Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Mystery Outing Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
The Great Outdoors: Walk at Dan Daniel Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
The Great Outdoors: Walk at Anglers Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Get your day started with a light stretch at Stonewall then follow it up with a glorious walk along the $3 Riverwalk Trail starting at the YMCA. Enjoy the cool breeze while listening to the sounds of nature.
Tuesday, Apr. 6
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
The weather is getting warmer and flowers are beginning to bloom once more. Meet your friends $10 from Stonewall at Anglers Park for an amazing picnic lunch and a fun spring theme game of BINGO.
Tuesday, Apr. 13
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Can you crack the code to the clues as to where you and your friends will be going today? It starts NO FEE with a “T”, has clubs, and is a locally owned business. Will you get the hole in one?
Wednesday, Apr. 14
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Stretch your legs and take delight in the spring weather as you play a game of iSpy along the $3 Riverwalk Trail starting at Dan Daniel Park.
Tuesday, Apr. 20
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
This is the last opportunity to get a chance to explore “The Great Outdoors” with your friends. Embrace the moment to take a glance of Mother $3 Nature at her best as you take a brisk walk along the Riverwalk Trail. At the end of your journey, enjoy light refreshments.
Tuesday, Apr. 27
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
The leprechauns are still about at Stonewall. Create a $5 leprechaun craft and make a yummy Irish treat.
Tuesday, Mar. 30
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Are you a prankster or a joker of all sorts? Don’t be fooled, gather with your friends for a day of action $10 packed, outrageous games, food, and fun.
Wednesday, Apr. 7
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
A fun pastime during the spring is flying kites. Test your ability to get your kite soaring in the wind while you are $8 with your friends.
Friday, Apr. 9
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
LEISURE/INTEREST Luck of the Irish Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Joker’s Paradise Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Kite Flying Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Outdoor Spring Games Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
The weather is breaking and it’s time to get outside. Grab a friend and team up against your other friends as you $5 - Apr. 16, Friday, Apr. 16, 23, & Apr. 30 compete in a variety of outdoor games. From Mother 30 May I, to Duck Duck Goose, all the way to kickball and $10 - Apr. 23 having a field day, the games are endless.
54 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
TIME
DATES
PRICE
ACTIVITIES AT STONEWALL LEISURE INTEREST (continued) Superhero Day Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Superheroes are loved by children and adults alike. Dress in your best superhero costume and learn about $10 many other ones.
Wednesday, Apr. 28
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Hang a pretty positive message picture on your wall to remind you of how awesome you are! Join your friends to paint and decorate a wood tray to suit your style using various paints, ribbon $8 and artificial flowers. Then finish it with a message written in chalk so you can change the message as much as you like.
Tuesday, Mar. 23
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
April showers bring May flowers! It’s a DIY ceramic boot planter waiting for your personal touch. Whether you like it plain blue or yellow with white $11 polka dots, let’s paint then plant a spring flower in the ceramic boot. Spring is in the air!
Wednesday, Apr. 21
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
April showers bring May flowers! It’s a DIY ceramic boot planter waiting for your personal touch. Whether you like it plain blue or yellow with white $11 polka dots, let’s paint then plant a spring flower in the ceramic boot. Spring is in the air!
Wednesday, Apr. 21
10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.
Parents, providers and family members: here is your opportunity to give input regarding the type of programs you would like to have for your child or adult at Stonewall Therapeutic Recreation Center.
Thursday, Mar. 18
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday, Apr. 11
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
CRAFTS Chalkboard Hanging Wall Art Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Spring Boot Planter Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
Spring Boot Planter Stonewall Therapeutic Rec. Ctr 434-799-5199
SPECIAL EVENTS Parent Input Session Zoom • 434-799-5199
COMMUNITY EVENTS National Pet Day Coates Bark Park The Crossing Off Leash Park 434-793-3646
Moving Towards the Brightside! 434-793-4636
Let’s spend a day celebrating our very best pals. Send in a picture or video of your pet for a chance to be featured on Danville Parks and Recreation’s social media. We NO FEE will also be offering treats at our community dog park. Call the Danville Welcome Center.
Beginning with National Take a Walk in a Park Day on March 31, we are kicking off the Second Annual Moving Towards the Brightside program. It is designed to encourage everyone to get out and get moving during these times of social distancing. Steps can be completed anywhere, such as your neighborhood, driveway, the Riverwalk trail, or a treadmill. The possibilities are endless. Miles are submitted daily and tallied to see how far we have collectively traveled. May is National Bike Month. During May, we are going to include miles completed on a bike to our program! We are going to visit all 50 states this year. All miles can be entered into the same form just select the way you completed your miles. The link is on our website and Facebook page. Let’s see how far we can travel!
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 55
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PRICE
Danville Parks and Recreation events
COMMUNITY EVENTS Music at the Market Community Market Stage 434-793-4636
The Biggest Dan Catfish Tournament 434-793-4636
Start your weekend on Thursday by attending the Music on Main Concert Series. Concerts will be held at the Danville Community Market, 629 Craghead Street, Thursdays from June 17 through July 29. Free to the public! Bring a lawn chair, blanket and picnic basket for a relaxing evening. In the event of rain, concerts are held inside the Community Market. Stay tuned for event schedule. Sponsored by Danville Parks and Recreation.
Thursdays, June 17 – July 29
Grab your fishing gear and hit the Dan River to enter your catch into the Biggest Dan Catfish Tournament. Rules and regulations for this virtual tournament will be posted on the event page on $20 Facebook. Registration is now open. Registration ends Friday, April 16 at 4 p.m. Fishing can be from the bank or a boat. Sign up online at www.playdanvilleva.com.
Friday, Apr. 16, 5 p.m. – Monday, Apr. 19, 7 a.m.
Join Sports and Athletics every Friday for some fun basketball games. Different styles of games such as HORSE, KNOCKOUT, 3-Point Challenges, Corners, and more. Each participant will be provided with their own $3 ball. Participants are responsible to bring own beverage and face covering. Equipment will be cleaned between games. Ages 7-16. Register on www.playdanvilleva.gov.
Fridays, Mar. 12 Apr. 2
5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
How many home runs can you hit? Join Sports and Athletics for some baseball fun. Each participant will have three rounds with two minutes per round to hit as many home runs as possible. Participants $5 are responsible to bring their own bat, beverage, and face covering. Ages 7-13. Register at www.playdanvilleva.gov
Friday, Apr. 16
5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
SPORTS March Madness Glenwood Recreational Center 434-799-5214
Home Run Derby Dan Daniel Memorial Park 434-799-5214
56 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
TIME
DATES
PRICE
SPORTS
Danville Parks and Recreation E-sports 434-799-5214
Early Bird Special Glenwood Recreational Center 434-799-5214
Youth Athletes & Mentoring Discussion Series Virtual Series 434-799-5150
Canine Fitness Month Virtual Series
Gather your friends or family for new gaming opportunity. Sports and Athletics presents the Mission Control app to join “Danville Parks and Rec Esports.” This will give you the opportunity to join a community of gamers in the comfort of your own home. Join different leagues, seasons, tournaments, and more. Play the latest and hottest games such as 2K21, Madden 21, and Fortnite. Player must own the game that they want to participate with and play. Register by downloading the Mission Control App and Joining “Danville Parks and Rec Esports.”
App Launches March 1
Do you have fitness goals? Join Sports and Athletics Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and get your early bird fitness workout with body resistant workouts. $5 This workout will help improve cardio, flexibility, muscle endurance, and more. Register at www. playdanvilleva.gov.
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Apr. 19 to Apr. 30
6 a.m. - 7 a.m.
Join a bi-weekly discussion with local former collegiate athletes to hear their experiences playing NO FEE youth sports and the role that mentors had in their lives when aspiring to play at the “next level.”
Wednesdays, March & April
5 p.m.
Join us throughout the month of April as we share fun facts, trivia, and tips on how to keep your pups physically active. Also, remember to submit NO FEE your pup’s best tricks during our “K-9/10 Tricks Week” April 5-9. E-mail video submissions to playdanvilleva@danvilleva.gov
Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday in April
3 p.m.
Following all CDC guidelines and policies in regards to social distancing and safe procedures, your child will experience a classroom-style setting in which they can access the Internet for online classes with adult $150/wk supervision. Breaks for snacks and lunch provided $30/day by Danville Public Schools. After school focuses on exercise and crafts. Ages 5-12. Spaces are limited so call ASAP to register.
Weekly, March May 28
7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Following all CDC guidelines and policies in regards to social distancing and safe procedures, your child will enjoy plenty of physical activities and games as $100/wk well as spring-time crafts, sports and more! Please bring a bag lunch each day as well as morning and afternoon snacks. Ages 5-12. Registration required.
Monday-Friday, Apr. 5-9
7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Virtual Learning Centers Coates Recreation Center 434-799-5150
Spring Break Camp Coates Recreation Center 434-799-5150
SOUTHSIDE | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | 57
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Danville Parks and Recreation events
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Summer Camp at Coates Coates & Glenwood Rec Centers 434-799-5150
Virtual Parent Series Zoom • 434-799-5150
Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt 434-799-5150
Make Your Own Leprechaun Trap Contest 434-799-5150
Spend your summer exploring the outdoors, participating in healthy activities, and playing with your friends in a wholesome and structured program. Our program follows all CDC guidelines and policies in regards to social distancing and safe procedures, National Afterschool Association $100/wk healthy eating and physical activity standards as well as Virginia childcare standards. Morning and afternoon snacks are provided as well as lunches. Ages 5-12. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and lunch.
Monday-Friday, June 7-Aug. 9
7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Join other parents and community partners for engaging topics ranging from Social-Emotional Learning, Cyber Bullying, Tutoring, Student Mental Health Support and Family Nutrition all with the perspective of families going through the pandemic! Community partners include Church Based Tutorial, NO FEE Danville Public Schools and Danville Pittsylvania Community Services. After a short presentation, each session will have an open discussion at the end. You must register in advance to get the Zoom link for each topic.
Wednesdays & Thursdays in March
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Check out our Facebook (Danville Parks and Recreation) and our Instagram (@playdanvilleva) the week of March 8-14 to find hidden leprechauns throughout Danville! With some located in parks and some downtown, please join the fun by following clues and answering riddles. Post your Leprechaun selfie with the #playdanvilleva tag to help us celebrate Saint. Patricks’ Day! Starting March 14, look at our Facebook (Danville Parks and Recreation) and our Instagram (@playdanvilleva) for details regarding our Leprechaun Trap Contest! The winner will be announced on March 17 and a photo will be shared of the winning trap. Get your crafting DIY skills on and get ready to catch some leprechauns!
58 | DISCOVER MAGAZINE | SOUTHSIDE
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434.822.5005
VISIT HURT
A congenial, family-oriented town of approximately 1,300 citizens located at the from the northern end of Pittsylvania County. We are separated adjoining larger town of Altavista only by the Roanoke home to (Staunton) River. Come join our charming town, people of all ages with a considerable range of demographics and interests.
Health Dept. Permit #01H
Professional ~ Courteous Service We go the extra mile.
533 Pocket Rd. P (434) 608-0554 • F (434) 205-1177 PO Box 760 www.townofhurtva.gov • clerk@townofhurtva.org
Hurt, VA
S&B Motor Co. Since 1945
Low Mileage Cars & Trucks Super Clean Inventory Great Selection of Service Vehicles!
434-793-1511 2331 Riverside Drive Danville, VA Open Monday-Friday 8-5 • Saturdays 9-2
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PERKINS TIRE & SERVICE CENTER, INC. Visit Perkins Tire and Service Center, Inc. today for a wide selection of Michelin® tires and Michelin® wiper blades! Drop in and pay us a visit. Our well-trained and experienced staff will be sure to service all your tire and automotive requirements. Perkins Tire & Service Center would be more than happy to meet your needs in the following areas: Oil Change • Alignments • Brakes Nitrogen • AC Service • State Inspection Transmission Service • Coolant Flush
(434) 432-1100
13384 US Hwy 29 | Chatham, VA 24531
Let me help protect your business’s good name. Call for a quote today! Easley Hedrick Insurance & Financial 131 South Main St. Chatham 434-432-4046 www.EasleyHedrick.com
Products are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and affiliated companies, Columbus, Ohio. Not all Nationwide-affiliated companies are mutual companies, and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2020 Nationwide CMO-1258AO 13279712 (11/20)
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530 Main Street Suite #207 Danville, VA
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Swicegood - Barker Funeral Service erviceS S
564 West Main Street, Danville, VA 24541
BraLady Boutique
APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL FITTINGS CALL (434) 793-LADY (5239) TO SCHEDULE YOURS TODAY! 1085 Piney Forest Road, Danville, VA 24540 Open Tuesday-Saturday
434.432.0971
434.432.0972
FREE 10” PIZZA
1-434-792-5611
*Valid when you buy one XL pizza with 2 or more toppings. We offer a full range of dental and orthodontic services, including same-day emergency care. Our offices are welcoming and state-of-the-art, and we strive to make patients comfortable and relaxed through even the most complex dental treatments.
Creating Beautiful Healthy Smiles Since 1976
Call us today for more information or to schedule an appointment!
434.710.4070
We offer a full range of dental and orthodontic services, including same-day QUALITY • COMPREHENSIVE • CARING DENTISTRY emergency care. Our offices are welcoming and state-of-the-art, and we strive to make patients comfortable and relaxed through even the most complex dental treatments. DanvilleDentalAssociates.com Call us today for more information or to schedule an appointment!
434.710.4070
QUALITY • COMPREHENSIVE • CARING DENTISTRY DanvilleDentalAssociates.com
18
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LARGE PIZZA W/ 2 TOPPINGS & 10 BUFFALO WINGS 1391 US Hwy 29 N • Chatham, VA www.frankspizzachatham.com
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