Piedmont Virginian, Autumn 2014 PLUS Guide to the Arts by Dennis Brack

Inside, our annual

GUIDE TO THE ARTS Autumn 2014 • $5.95

HERITAGE

Virginia’s Moonshiners

Up Up

& Away

The Passion of Ballooning in the Blue Ridge

HABITAT

Coyotes’ Comeback

Focused on youR PRioRiTies and growing wealth for future generations is a top priority. â&#x20AC;?Preserving achieving this goal requires adhering to a disciplined investment process. â&#x20AC;? Richard gates, President

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AUTUMN 2014 • VOLUME VIII, NUMBER 4 “Masonic Temple, Hamilton” Oil by Dagmar Wilson

Arts in the Piedmont: The Piedmont Virginian’s Annual Guide

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AUTUMN 2014

Features

Departments

Gardening

5 To Our Readers

60 Photo Contest Winners

30 Bob, the Garden Cat

6 Tastings

61 Desserts

By Hardie Newton

Snapshots at the End of the Day

12 The Essentials

Conservation

33 Virginia’s Department

64 Letter from Amissville By Walter Nicklin

14 Here ‘n’ There

of Forestry By Kit Johnston

Calendar Reminder of Events & Doings

IRG T V

Leesburg

Clarke

44 Boots on and Wine Stained

Loudoun

Front Royal

o u n t a i n

M en tt

Washington

Rappahannock

i d g e

Culpeper

R e

lu B

Madison

Woodbridge

Stafford

R. idan

522

Massaponax

Spotsylvania

Gordonsville

Charlottesville

Fredericksburg Orange

Occo q

Lake Anna

Louisa

Miles

nna



Palmyra

Orange

Staunton

Alex.

Greene

495

Fauquier

Culpeper

Madison

Albemarle

Manassas

Prince William

R ck no han

Sperryville

211

522

Gainesville

Warrenton

D.C.

ssa

Stanardsville

Nelson

Rappa

Harrisonburg

Fairfax

Marshall

46 Moonshine

History

Waynesboro

Ashburn

Potomac R.

For the Thrill of It

P o t oma c

Middleburg

By Kit Johnston

By Kristie Kendall

M A R

Purcellville

Berryville

By Brian Licorowich

MAP BY GENE THORP FOR THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

n an

Winchester

42 Lamb Three Ways

Harpers Ferry

Sh en an do ah

Carla Hogue

340

She

40 After Hours in the Garden

INIA

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Food and Wine

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52 The Passion

Sarah Whitestone photographed a brightly colored balloon floating above the fall colors of the Piedmont landscape. Her photo essay on ballooning in the Blue Ridge begins on page 52.

Holiday Events in the Piedmont

Our Elusive Neighbors By By Celia Vuocolo

ABOUT THE COVER:

26 Here ‘n’ There Holidays

38 Coyotes,

of Ballooning By Sara Whitestone

28 Poetry of Place



Fluvanna

Lovingston

Jam

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THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN Richmond

AUTUMN 3

495

ARTat the

Saturd Nov. 1ay

RACES www.artattheraces.com

A Plein Air Painting Exhibit & Sale In the TRF â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gallery Tentâ&#x20AC;? at the Races, 11407 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station Sponsored by Rappahannock Media (Rappahannock News, Culpeper Times and The Piedmont Virginian) Tad Coffin Performance Saddles, and Grelen Nursery. Thirty percent of the sale proceeds benefit the Foundation.

The Montpelier Hunt Races, run annually in front of James Madison’s iconic mansion.

FOUNDING EDITOR: Walter Nicklin CO-FOUNDERS: Arthur W. (Nick) Arundel, Sandy Lerner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER, PRODUCTION MANAGER Pam Kamphuis ASSISTANT EDITOR Cassandra Brown CALENDAR EDITOR Pam Pulawski LOCAVORE EDITOR Judy Liberson ADVERTISING MANAGER Amy Fewell ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Christina Dodson Julie Lohr WEB PRODUCER Site Whirks CIRCULATION MANAGER Pam Pulawski CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Robert Brickhouse, Kirsten Dueck, John Hagarty, Jonathan Hayward, Rose Jenkins, Christopher Kent, Jordan Koepke, Doug Lees, Brian Lichorowic, Hardie Newton, Linda Roberts, Linda Slothouber, Steven Schwartz BEAGLE MIX Angel The Piedmont Virginian is published quarterly by Rappahannock Media, L.L.C. P.O. Box 87, Amissville, VA 20106 540.349.2951, 540.675.3088 fax info@piedmontvirginian.com All editorial, advertising, reprint, and/or circulation correspondence should use the above address, or visit the website: http://www.piedmontvirginian.com The editors welcome but accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and art. Reprints or bulk copies available upon request. Single-copy price, $5.95. One-year subscription rate, $19.95. Two-year rate, $33.95. © 2014 by Rappahannock Media, LLC. ISSN # 1937-5409 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to The Piedmont Virginian, P.O. Box 87, Amissville, VA 20106.

Community, communicated.

SUSAN CARTER

PUBLISHER Dennis Brack

TO OUR READERS

One Very Worthy Cause, One Wonderful Art Show wo days before the deadline to finish this issue of The Piedmont Virginian, a little-known holiday was celebrated in small ways around the nation. Perhaps the epicenter of these celebrations was at Montpelier in Orange County. Of course, this iconic property was home to the “Father of the Constitution,” James Madison. And the first weekend of November, the estate will host the Montpelier Hunt Races, as it has for eight decades. This magazine has been proudly associated with the Races for several years through our sponsorship of the annual tailgate contest. Beginning Nov. 1, we will be embarking on a new tradition, sponsoring another worthy cause, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) at Montpelier’s Art at the Races event. Proceeds from this Plein Air festival go to support the 73 retired thoroughbred race horses who live at Montpelier. Kicking off on October 18 is the secondannual Piedmont Virginian Artists Showcase at River District Arts in Sperryville. This exhibit will feature the work of dozens of artists from throughout the Piedmont. We hope to see you there.

Enjoy the autumn! Dennis Brack, Publisher THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 5

TASTINGS

Piedmont Pictured

PHOTOGRAPH BY WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES

An aerial view of Oak Spring Farm, the 2,000-acre property near Upperville long owned by Rachel “Bunny” Lambert Mellon, who died earlier this year at age 103. It’s now on the market. Details, page 11.

Horse People / By Linda Roberts Horsepower Fuels the Climb to Success in Business

“H

8 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

clear stress and promote open pathways of thought. Fair enough, I reasoned — a good way to gain a sharper focus on whatever the task. And, I felt much more relaxed, centered, and at ease as the result. However, this calm state didn’t fully prepare me for the next step. Goodwin pointed to a long pole lying on the ground and asked me to have Cali walk over it. Sure, not a problem, I’d led plenty of horses over poles. But her second directive was a show stopper. I couldn’t touch Cali, or even use a lead rope for the exercise. And, worse, the mare was totally disinterested when I did my best to politely cajole her into taking a collaborative step with me toward the pole. I eventually discovered that intention and assertiveness worked quite well with Cali — just as it most often does in business — and we crossed the pole without a lead rope or whip. That simple exercise aptly illustrates Goodwin’s philosophy of inspiration and motivation, which is based on the four points of attention, connection, direction and collaboration, and trademarked by Jaeger2 as the ACDC Leadership Model. The core of Goodwin’s strategy to success is her Alpha Horse Leadership Training for Humans workshops that center on an understanding of emotional AUTUMN 2014

intelligence, nonverbal communication, and an awareness of the mindbody connection. Goodwin noted that the ability to see ourselves clearly is one of the largest hurdles to overcome in personal growth. “Our self perceptions do not match the way others experience our being. Horses reflect back to us our authentic self, the self underneath the superficial societal self that walks through everyday life. They see beyond the mask to our true intentions, doubts, and insecurities,” she said. A lifelong animal lover who became a skilled horsewoman, Goodwin found her niche by combining an inherent sense of connecting with animals and nature with academic degrees in English and zoology. A master’s degree in environmental biology led to employment as an environmental scientist where her leadership and management skills quickly surfaced. This background combined with experience in management strategy eventually led to directorship of The Jaeger Group, a familyowned information technology staffing firm, where Goodwin produced $2.1 million in new revenue through cold call sales in the firm’s first year. Personal and executive coach

Shari Jaeger Goodwin wrote the inspirational best seller, Take the Reins! 7 Secrets to Inspired Leadership.

training, equine-facilitated learning techniques, natural horsemanship skills, and her equestrian background paved the way for Goodwin to found Jaeger2 in 2009 from her interest in helping people affected by the economy’s downturn. “Studies show that as humans we use about 10 percent of our potential,” said Goodwin. Enabled by her equine coaches in unmounted training sessions, Goodwin said she helps her clients tap directly into the other 90 percent of their potential abilities in their business and personal lives. “I need to be where I can add the most value to the world,” Goodwin said of her venture, which seems to know no bounds due to its visionary and energetic leader. As the author of an inspirational best seller, she also finds outlets for her articles on leadership strategies and frequently speaks on that topic. And although her clients include both men and women, it’s women who seem to naturally gravitate to Goodwin’s programs and services. A

COURTESY OF SHARI JAEGER GOODWIN

orses read your intentions. And there’s really no place for human ego in horsedom,” says leadership coach, author, speaker, and horsewoman Shari Jaeger Goodwin. She is the owner and chief strategist for Jaeger2, LLC, an equine-assisted coaching practice that incorporates her own leadership model for targeting success — in business and in life. Goodwin embraces an exuberant passion for the unique, multi-faceted business she founded at her farm in Fauquier County. Playing a key role in her venture is Goodwin’s stable of four-legged equine assistants that pay for their own hay and oats as Jaeger2 instructors. Arriving at Cobbler Corner Farm with no prior knowledge of Goodwin’s training techniques except for a review of her website, I was excited to learn firsthand how my own lifelong interest in allthings equine could sync with a business training model. It wasn’t long before realizing that perhaps I’d brought a bit of ego from my own background with horses. Before Goodwin turned me over to her senior assistant, a large white mare nicknamed Cali who stood patiently watching us, my mini-session began with a simple mindcentering exercise designed to

GALLERIES

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

‘Art at the Races’: A Plein air/Paint out Event at Montpelier Middleburg Arts Project

COURTESY OF MIDDLEBURG ARTS PROJECT

here’s a new art gallery in Middleburg. Peter Wood and Tom Dionne have launched the Middleburg Arts Project. The grand opening, held Sept. 13, exhibited artwork from Jason Alexander (ceramics), James Halloran (paintings), Chris Mann (furniture), and Peter Wood (sculpture). The owners saw the potential for arts to expand in their community and decided to open the gallery on 4 E. Federal Street in Middleburg. “(We) see Middleburg as an arts destination; a vivacious arts town that retains its historic character, its horse and hunt country traditions, while embracing, valuing and supporting artists,” explained Mr. Wood. Their goals for the gallery include showcasing regional and national artists, encouraging creative expression, promoting understanding and appreciation for visual arts, and increasing art and cultural tourism in Middleburg and the Piedmont region. The Middleburg Arts Project Gallery will feature new artists each month on display Oct. 10 to Nov. 2, Nov. 7 to 30, and Dec. 5 to 28. An artist himself, Mr. Wood has created metal sculptures for over 15 years and serves as the Chair of the Middleburg Arts Council. Mr. Dionne has over 20 years experience in retail and design consulting and at one time ran an antique business. They have been residents of Middleburg for 10 years and live in town with their coonhound, Barkley. Gallery Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. For more information, visit: www.middleburgarts.org or https:// www.facebook.com/MiddleburgArtsProject — Cassandra Brown

certified small business owned by a woman, Jaeger2 is redirecting its outreach to reflect this client base. After a tough day of promoting her business, encouraging personal growth, business strategy and leadership skills in others, what do the coaches do to

unwind? For Goodwin, it’s a Reiki session or a walk through the pastoral beauty that surrounds Cobbler Corner Farm. For “the herd,” as Goodwin refers to her assistants, they can’t wait to kick up their heels in the pasture after another day on the job.

he Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) at Montpelier will be hosting a Plein Air/Paint Out event ‘Art at the Races’ during the Montpelier Hunt Races November 1 at James Madison’s former home in Orange County. Sponsored by Rappahonnock Media, parent company of The Piedmont Virginian, and Tad Coffin Performance Saddles, the event will help raise funds for the care and support of 73 former race horses that live at Montpelier. ‘Art at the Races’ is a ‘Plein Air’ art event that will celebrate open air painting within the historic environment of Montpelier. This week-long gathering of 10 Plein Air artists at Montpelier, culminates at the 80th running of the Montpelier Hunt Races in the TRF Gallery Tent. That’s where the artists’ brushwork on canvas, from their week of painting at Montpelier, and the “wet painting” they will be working on during the morning before the races, is for sale to benefit the TRF. Local and regional Plein Air artists will participate in the event. Noted artists, such as Kelly Coffin, Nancy Wallace, Helen Hilliard, Carol Iglesias, Gray Dodson, Priscilla Long Whitlock, and Teresa Duke, will be part of the cadre of painters painting, with natural light, the many vistas of Montpelier, capturing the rich history and heritage of what the property was and is today. Photographer Deborah Kozura will also have framed photos for sale of TRF horses pastured on the grounds of Montpelier. So before the rush of the holidays, and after the ghosts and goblins have faded off into the night, enjoy the spectacle and history of the Montpelier Hunt Races on Saturday, November 1. As the magnificent horse and rider teams fly by, artists will be painting on the grounds, kicking off the first Plein Air painting event at the Races. Work by the dozen local and regional artists participating in the event will be available for sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the TRF Gallery Tent located in the vendor area during the Saturday races. The show will feature oil and water media paintings of Montpelier, equine themes and local landscapes. Thirty percent of the sale proceeds benefit the TRF. As an added extra-TRF Tailgate photographer, Sue DeBruycker from Images by Susie Lynn will be on the grounds taking memorable photographs of tailgate parties and partygoers to

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 9

ON STAGE

From Porch to ‘Torch’

ore than 300 parked in a field and sat, many of them rapt, before the granite amphitheater carved out of a hillside at John Henry and Ann Crittenden’s Stone Hill Farm near Flint Hill on a June afternoon — for a staged, costumed reading of “Galileo’s Torch,” a new play by James Reston Jr. The play, which grew out of Sunday-morning gatherings on the porch of the Laurel Mills Store with businessman Henry and his eclectic band of conservative and liberal Rappahannock County brothers, replayed the 17th-century trial of Galileo Galilei, after the astronomermathematician tested Catholic dogma with his assertion that the earth orbits the sun. It starred many of Henry’s D.C.-based friends, including federal appeals court judge David Tatel playing the black-robed Inquisitor, former White House counsel C. Boyden Gray as a convincing Pope Urban VIII and conservative icon Richard Viguerie in the red robe of Cardinal Bellarmine. The play’s now headed for performances at the Italian Embassy in D.C., and Henry says his Stone Hill amphitheatre will be ready for another performance in the spring. — Roger Piantadosi

Top left: John Henry and his wife, Ann Crittenden, hosted the production at their Stone Hill Farm, near Flint Hill. Left: Federal appeals court judge David Tatel played the role of Galileo’s black-robed Inquisitor. DC politicos C. Boyden Gray and Richard Viguerie also were part of the cast.

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AUTUMN 2014

“TORCH”: ROGER PIANTADOSI, SUSAN RAINES; RACES: SUSAN CARTER

help support the TRF horses. Look for her on the grounds race day in the bright green TRF shirt. Montpelier is located at 11407 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station, VA 22957. For more information about the Races visit www.montpelierraces.org. Call (540) 672-0014 for race tickets. Visit us at www.facebook.com/trfatmontpelier Visit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation at Montpelier Plein air website at www.artattheraces.com. For more information about the Plein Air art exhibit and show contact Nancy Lowey at: nlowey@thoroughbredretirement.org

AIA

At a granite amphiteater in Rappahannock County, an audience of hundreds watched a performance of author James Reston Jr.’s “Galileo’s Torch”. Right: Reston during the play.

PIEDMONT PROPERTY

Have $70 Million to Spare? A Little Upperville Farm Could by Yours

POOL HOUSE: WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES

anity Fair called the late Rachel “Bunny” Mellon’s Oak Spring Farm “Bunny’s Secret Garden.” Mellon famously guarded her privacy, especially her husband Paul’s death in 1999. The 2,000-acre property certainly affords one privacy, and it includes a host of notable features, including: • Private mile-long airstrip; • Stables, tenant and guest houses; • Extensive greenhouses and gardens; • “Brick House,” right, a neo-Georgian mansion designed by noted architect William Adams Delano. Thomas B. Anderson, President of Washington Fine Properties, has the listing.

EXISTING INDUSTRIAL ELEMENTS WERE INCORPORATED WITH NEW MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS TO CREATE AN UPDATED INDUSTRIAL AESTHETIC FOR THE NEW TAP ROOM AND BEER GARDEN.

Philip Carter Winery to host En Plein Air Weekend

hilip Carter Winery in Hume will host a special art-themed weekend Oct. 4-5. The Washington Society of Landscape Painters will paint En Plein Air (in the open air), capturing the beauty of the winery and surrounding mountains. Members from the American Painting Fine Art in D.C. will also be in attendance such as Andrei Kushnir, a veteran En Plein Air painter who has been practicing this style for over 30 years. The Inn at Vineyards Crossing, a short distance away from the winery, will also be celebrating its one-year anniversary over the weekend. A perfect getaway for wine enthusiasts, the Inn has a rich history dating back to 1787, and has the distinct honor of being on the National Register of Historic Places. The Inn overlooks panoramic mountain scenes with modern amenities, a culinary chef preparing five star meals, a pool and English garden. For more information, visit: http://www.pcwinery.com/default.html http://www.vineyardscrossing.com — Cassandra Brown

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 11

Essentials

Appleton Campbell

100 East Franklin Street, Warrenton, VA 20186 Warrenton: 540-347-0765 Culpeper: 540-825-6332 Gainesville: 703-754-3301 Fredericksburg: 540-645-6229 appletoncampbell.com

Appleton Campbell is the local name you can trust for all of your plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical service repairs and installations. Family owned and operated with a Class A license, Appleton Campbell has been proudly serving the Piedmont Region and Northern Virginia with honesty, integrity, and experience since 1976. See our ad on page 17.

Barboursville

17655 Winery Road, Barboursville, VA 22923 540-832-3824; www.barboursvillewine.net

Considered one of the Piedmont’s most well known wineries, come and enjoy breath taking views of this vineyard overlooking the Blue Ridge. Established in 1976 by the largest family-held winemaking enterprise in Italy, its estate-bottled vitis vinifera wines meet the highest international standards. Barboursville Vineyards is open for wine tastings Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. The $5 tasting fee includes an inscribed glass and entitles you to a tasting of 16-20 wines, several offered only at the winery. See our ad on page 15.

Christine Fox

47 South Third Street, Warrenton, VA 20186 540-347-3868; www.christinefox.com

Fine women’s fashion and accessories in the heart of historic Warrenton. See our ad on page 5.

Christmas Sleigh

5A East Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 540-687-3665; info@thechristmassleigh.com, www.thechristmassleigh.com

Hours of Operation: 7 Days a week, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The Christmas Sleigh specializes in handmade or handcrafted traditional European wares. From mouth blown and hand painted ornaments, to handmade collector’s dolls, Nutcrackers, Smokermen, hand carved Nativities, paintings, and the most incredible selection of authentic and beautifully made Austrian “Trachten” clothing available in this country. See our ad on page 20.

E.A. Clore Sons, Inc.

303 Clore Place, Madison, VA 22727 540-948-5821; www.eaclore.com

Since 1830, E. A. Clore Sons, Inc. has specialized in expertly handcrafted early American furniture that remains treasured for many years to come. From exact mortise-and-tenon construction and precision dovetailed drawers, to air-seasoned hardwoods and rich, hand-rubbed lacquer finishes, our commitment to age-old woodworking techniques and distinctive designs comes through every piece of well-built Clore furniture we produce. Dedication to detail, age-old craftsmanship. See our ad on page 21.

12 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

Fauquier Health

Mosby Heritage Area Association

Fauquier Health has spent the last eight years changing the culture of care. Since May of 2000, Fauquier Hospital has been a Planetree affiliate. Planetree is a model of personalized care that is all-encompassing, from the design of the physical environment to the welcoming of family members as part of the healthcare solution. See our ad on the back cover.

The Mosby Heritage Area Association seeks to educate and preserve the remarkably historic region we live in. The association can help you plan a visit or simply provide you with wonderful information about where you already live. See our ad on page 51.

500 Hospital Drive, Warrenton, VA 20186 540-316-5000; www.fauquierhospital.org

Fauquier Springs Country Club 9236 Tournament Drive, Warrenton, VA 20186 540-347-4205; www.fauquiersprings.com

Fauquier Springs Country Club is your local destination for golf, swimming, tennis, fitness, dining, social events and activities, and award-winning catering. Relax and unwind with family and friends. Various types of memberships are available to meet your specific needs. Fauquier Springs Country Club looks forward to welcoming you. See our ad on page 23.

Griffin & Errera, DDS

Warrenton, VA; Culpeper, VA; Middleburg, VA www.griffinorthodontics.com

Today is the day to take the first step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted; and at the orthodontic practice of Alfred C. Griffin, Jr., DDS and Joseph S. Errera, DDS we are here to help! We have experienced doctors and staff members whose top priority is to treat their patients with the kindness and compassion they deserve. See our ad on page 20.

Howard Morrison Ross Whelan 540-347-1000; www.hmrwlaw.com

When you need a lawyer, choose wisely. Innovative, out-of-the-box thinking; can you afford any less? Our offices are right here in your backyard. Your family’s full service law firm. See our ad on the inside back cover.

James Hricko Architect

118 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA 20186 540-341-8850; www.jameshricko.com

James Hricko Architect LLC was established in 1975 as a full service architectural firm. James Hricko is involved in every aspect of a project and is responsible for assembling and managing the design team, including consultants in structural, mechanical and electrical engineering, land planning and landscape architecture, and interior design, as well as the coordination of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) support. See our ad in Tastings.

Middleburg Business & Professional Association P.O. 1384, Middleburg, VA 20118; www.visitmiddleburgva.com

The historic village of Middleburg is one of the last unspoiled places in America. Visitors will discover unique shops, delightful dining experiences and warm and welcoming inns. Middleburg is also committed to historic preservation and land conservation, thus ensuring that our village remains a wonderful place in which to live, work and do business. See our ad on page 16.

AUTUMN 2014

P.O. Box 1497, Middleburg, VA 20118 540-687-6681; www.mosbyheritagearea.org

Paul Henry’s Window Installation 540-359-6842; paulhenryswindows.com

Paul Henry’s Window Installation provides exterior home improvement services to homeowners and residents throughout Northern Virginia. We install superior-quality and energy efficient windows. Our products and services will beautify your home and dramatically reduce your home heating and cooling costs. See our ad on page 32.

Salamander Resort & Spa

540-687-3600; www.SalamanderResort.com

Salamander® Resort & Spa, Washington D.C.’s most luxurious resort, presents a colorful line-up of exciting springtime activities for the entire family. Vibrant cherry blossoms and seasonal flowers frame this authentic equestrian and wine country resort, a place where family activities become your picture for a lifetime of memories. Call or visit our website for a full list of activities and details. See our ad on page 1.

Top Dog Resort

540-788-4837; www.topdogresort.com

A small dog pet resort full of fun activities for your pet! No kennels, no cages, abundant attention and pampering. See our ad on page 21.

Trust Company of Virginia Multiple branches throughout Virginia 804-272-9044; www.tcva.com

The Trust Company of Virginia is a privately held, independent company offering comprehensive investment management and trust and estate services to individuals, families and endowments. Highly customized personal service is complemented by our concentration on active asset management and trust services. Contact Douglas Nunn. See our ad on the inside front cover.

Walker Jones, PC

Main Office: Carter Hall, 31 Winchester Street, Warrenton, VA 20186; 540-347-9223 Rappahannock Office: 211-B Main Street, P.O. Box 458, Washington, VA 22747; 540-227-5078; www.walkerjoneslaw.com

Walker Jones, PC, an AV-rated law firm, is highly qualified to address your legal concerns in family law; civil and commercial litigation; personal injury law; business law; real estate law; wills, trusts and estates; equine law; and criminal law. Walker Jones provides the legal expertise you need and the client service you deserve. See our ad on page 19.

WMRA

1-800-677-9672. Charlottesville’s NPR station is at

103.5. See our ad on page 24.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget......

Holiday

Gift Subscriptions www.piedmontvirginian.com

Here’n’ There EVENTS FROM ACROSS THE PIEDMONT

STAFF PICMKOSRE

MUCUHR WEBSITE! ON O

ANTIQUE SHOWS LOUDOUN PURCELLVILLE TOWN-WIDE TAG SALE WITH ANTIQUE FLEA MARKET. Oct. 9 - 12. The premier, award-winning event for the fall in the "last great small town in Northern Virginia." Once a year the entire town turns into a border to border yard sale with vendor booth lots, residential garage sales, business clearance sales, antique flea markets, great food and more! 250 South Nursery Drive, Purcellville. www.townwidetagsale.com

ART ALBEMARLE CHARLOTTESVILLE AREA ARTISAN STUDIO TOUR. Nov. 8 - 9, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Forty artisans will showcase their work in 22 studios throughout the region around Charlottesville. Come see a wide array of handmade art, learn about tools and techniques, and enjoy complimentary food and beverages provided by local suppliers. 434-973-6846.

www.artisanstudiotour.com

EVENTS AT LES YEUX DU MONDE GALLERY

Anne Slaughter: “Connections.” Oct. 10 -

Nov. 16. Opening Oct. 10, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The Belgian artist's first show since her 2006 retrospective and catalogue Terra Incognita. Her new paintings focus on human relationships in all their myriad universal forms, with haunting figures.

Annie Harris Massie: New Paintings in Oil and Wax. Nov. 16 - Dec. 31. Opening Nov. 16,

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Massie is a keen observer of natural light and its dematerializing qualities on landscape, buildings and still life. Her resulting paintings, often of our central Virginia landscapes, are sublime renditions of place and time. Les Yeux Du Monde Art Gallery. 841 Wolf Trap Road, Charlottesville. 434-973-5566. www.lesyeuxdumonde.com

CLARKE FALL ART CLASSES AT OPUS OAKS. Classes for all, ages 6 and up. Watercolors, Acrylic,

14 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

"Schoolhouse at Montpelier," by Carol Iglesias, 11" x 14" Oil. Carol will be one of the artists at the Plein Air "Art at the Races" at Montpelier Races on Nov. 1 to benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. See p. 16 Oil, Stained Glass, Sculpture, Fused Glass, Block Printing, Wirework Jewelry, Cold Forged Jewelry, Drawing, Copper Forging Sculpture, Blacksmithing, Lace Making, Fiber Arts and Weaving. 2330 Crums Church Road, Berryville. 540-955-4226. www.opusoaks.org

FAUQUIER THE PAINTED POT BY KRISTEN SWANSON. Oct. 12, 2 - 4 p.m. Kristen creates wheel thrown and hand built ceramic art out of beautiful porcelain clay. She draws inspiration from Japanese art, traditional botanical motifs and contemporary textiles. Live An Artful Life Gallery, 6474 Main Street, The Plains. 540-253-9797. www.LiveAnArtfulLife.com

AUTUMN 2014

FREDERICKSBURG FALL EVENTS AT ARTS FIRST GALLERY

"States of Consciousness," new paintings by Dr. Charles Riley. Opening night: First Friday, Oct. 3, 6 - 9 p.m. Show runs Oct. 1 - Nov. 2.

"Fun with Fred: A creative look at iconic Fredericksburg buildings," New paintings, drawings and mixed-media works by Casey Alan Shaw. Opening night: First Friday, Nov. 7, 6 -

9 p.m. Show runs Nov. 4 - 28.

"All-Members Show," featuring drawings, paintings and jewelry from the 30+ members of Fredericksburg's oldest co-op art gallery, celebrating 21 years of excellence. Show runs in December.

HERE ’N’ THERE Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg. artfirstgallery.com FIRST FRIDAYS AT BRUSH STROKES GALLERY. Featured artists in Oct. are Cheryl Bosch and Medina Roberts, showing their oils, acrylics, and felting creations. Nov. featured artist is Sarah Lapp with her wonderful acrylic and mixed media abstracts. Dec. brings an all member showing with special holiday emphasis, plus a small works table. Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg. 540-368-0560.

www.brushstrokesfredericksburg.com

LOUDOUN ART AT THE PINK BOX PARK. Oct. 18, 1 – 6 p.m. A fun and festive event with art, wine and music. Admire the beautiful park, buy art and enjoy the day. 12 North Madison Street, Middleburg. 540-687-8888. www.middleburgarts.org EVENTS AT THE BYRNE GALLERY

“Into the Woods, A Celebration of Trees.”

Oct. 11, Reception 5 - 8 p.m. The Oct. show is a celebration of the beauty of trees. Perfect for autumn in Virginia, it will feature works in a variety of mediums. Jeremy Holmes, William Woodward, Nina Falk and Japanese Woodblock Prints.

Special Reception. Nov. 8, 5:30 - 8 p.m. The

Byrne Gallery is very proud to announce its 19th anniversary year with a celebration and exhibition of the vivid oil and enamel paintings of internationally known artist Yuri Gorbachev. New paintings from his recent museum exhibits will be featured and the exhibition will continue through Dec. 28.

Open House. Dec. 6, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Join us for an open house on the Middleburg Christmas Parade Day. A special exhibition of selected new works from artists who have exhibited during the year. Perfect for gifting to that special person. The Byrne Gallery, 7 West Washington Street, Middleburg. 540-687-6986. ww.byrnegallery.com ART AT OATLANDS

Photography Workshop at Oatlands. Oct.

18, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Join professional photographer Wayne Wolfersberger for a photography workshop in the gardens of Oatlands. Participants will receive instruction on camera settings and will have a chance to photograph the extensive gardens and grounds of Oatlands. Reservations are required.

Four Seasons of Oatlands Small Works Art Show & Sale. Nov. 16 – Dec. 30, Mon.-Sat.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 5 p.m. A special art show for the holiday season takes place in the historic Carriage House at Oatlands. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. 703-777-3174. www.oatlands.org

MADISON "NEW BEGINNINGS." Through Nov. 3. The Second Annual Group Art Show at Woodberry Forest. Firnew Farm artists will present a mixed media art show. A sculptural installation by Leslie Barham, and a fabulous mosaic by Sharon Zarambo, THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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HERE ’N’ THERE and new photography works by John Berry, are among the 28 artists represented. Baker Gallery, Walker Fine Art. Woodberry Forest School, 898 Woodberry Forest Road, Woodberry. The Firnew Farm Artists Circle Group Art Show is a mixed media celebration of community and place. For more information contact: Trish Crowe. 540-948-3079. FirnewFarmArtistsCircle.wordpress.com MADISON QUILT GUILD QUILT SHOW. Oct. 18 - 19. Waverly Yowell Gym. 1809 Main Street, Madison. Madison Chamber of Commerce, 540-948-4455, www.madison-va.com

ORANGE NICHOLS GALLERY ART EXHIBIT: "CELEBRATION OF THE LANDSCAPE." Oct. 1 - Nov. 30. The American Landscape, with its beauty, power, and diversity has long been a source of inspiration for artists. Featuring paintings and original prints by twenty regional and national artists, from the mountains to the sea, the exhibition will present the many ways today’s artists interpret and preserve our landscape. Gallery Hours: Seven days a week by chance or appointment and Thursdays 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 5420 Governor Barbour Street, Barboursville. 540-832-3564. www.frednichols.com THE ART OF NATURAL HISTORY AT GRAVES INTERNATIONAL ART GALLERY. Featuring the fine art of natural history artists

focusing on the flora and fauna recorded in original prints from the 1700s and 1800s. Alongside the antique art will be the original paintings of Ron Louque, the most awarded artist of ornithology in America. Hours: Tues. - Sun. 12 - 5 p.m. 205 South Main St., Gordonsville. 540-832-7679. www.gravesfineartgallery.com

animals captures the beauty of the spirit in a classical realism style. Opening Reception Oct. 4, 3 - 5 p.m. Gallery Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 7 days a week. Art A La Carte, 310 Mill Street, Occoquan 703-496-9540. www.artalacartegallery.com

ART AT THE RACES. Nov. 1. A plein air art event that celebrates open air painting within the historic grounds of Montpelier. This weeklong gathering of 12 plein air artists culminates at the Montpelier Hunt Races on Nov. 1 in the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation "Gallery Tent." The artists' work from their week of painting at Montpelier will be on display and the wet painting they will be working on during the races will be for sale to benefit the TFR at Montpelier. www.artattheraces.com

PRINCE WILLIAM 15TH ANNUAL FALL GALLERY WALK. Nov. 7, 6 - 9:30 p.m. The merchants of Historic Downtown will be displaying artwork by local, featured artists. Follow the balloons to each destination! Historic Downtown Manassas. www.manassasgallerywalk.com ART BY TONYA BUTCHER. Oct. 1 - 31. A selftaught portrait artist working with several mediums including watercolor, soft pastel, charcoal and espresso. Her one-of-a-kind pieces of both people and

ART EXHIBITS AT THE HYLTON CENTER

"Nature Visions Photo Expo." Sept. 28 - Nov.

16. A selection of twenty-five highly-honored nature photographs from the 2013 Nature Visions Photo Expo, the exhibit represents the very best of the nearly 800 images entered into the competition. Gallery Reception: Oct. 2, 6 - 8 p.m., featuring wines from Cana Vineyards and Winery. RSVP to Hylton@gmu.edu

"Altered Terrain Today." Rosemary Luckett. Nov. 16 - Feb. 1, 2015. Mixed media drawings reveal a lively interplay between real and surreal expression. In her collage drawings, she pairs the unexpected; her works are metaphors for American culture and commerce. Gallery Reception: Nov. 20, 6 - 8 p.m., featuring wines by The Winery at Bull Run. RSVP to Hylton@gmu.edu The Buchanan Partners Art Gallery is open to the public Tues. - Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and two hours before performances. 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. HyltonCenter.org/gallery

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AUTUMN 2014

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HERE ’N’ THERE RAPPAHANNOCK EVENTS AT RIVER DISTRICT ARTS

Plein Air Shenandoah. Through Oct. 12. A group exhibit by artists who were invited to participate in multiple plein air paint-outs to create paintings that capture the natural and timeless beauty of the Shenandoah experience.

Second Annual Piedmont Virginian Artist Showcase. Oct. 18 - Dec. 28. The premier annual art exhibit in the Piedmont, this juried exhibit is sponsored by Piedmont Virginian Magazine and hosted by River District Arts. River District Arts, 3 River Lane, Sperryville. 540987-8770. www.riverdistrictarts.org

10TH ANNUAL STUDIO AND GALLERY TOUR OF THE ARTISTS OF THE RAPPAHANNOCK. Nov. 1 - 2, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The tour begins at the fire hall in “Little” Washington, where you will be able to view representative artwork from all the studios and galleries and pick up a map with driving directions to all the locations. The tour takes you through the beautiful countryside of Rappahannock County. 10 Firehouse Lane, Washington, VA. 540-675-3193. www.raac.org

AUTUMN/HALLOWEEN ALBEMARLE ANNUAL SPIRIT WALK. Oct. 24 - 26. Join

the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society on its 20th Annual Spirit Walk to meet memorable residents from our community’s past. Come learn their stories as they are vividly brought to life before you. On Oct. 24 and 26, meet former residents who now rest in Charlottesville’s Oakwood Cemetery. Officially opened in 1864, Oakwood houses the remains of many citizens, both well-known and long-forgotten. On Oct. 25, step back in time as you are guided through Charlottesville’s historic Court Square. Guests are encouraged to bring flashlights. 200 Second Street N.E., Charlottesville. 434-296-1492. www.albemarlehistory.org

CULPEPER CULPEPER DOWNTOWN TRICK-ORTREAT EVENT. Oct. 31, 5 - 6 p.m. Culpeper Downtown Businesses invite all the little ghouls and goblins for a safe trick or treat experience and will provide Halloween treats. East Davis Street, Historic Downtown Culpeper. 540-825-4416. www.culpeperdowntown.com

FAUQUIER HOT DOGS AND HAYRIDES NIGHTS AT COWS-N-CORN. Fridays, Sept. 19 - Oct. 31, 6 - 9 p.m. Enjoy the corn maze and farm at night with campfires, a play area and hayrides. Hot dog and drink included. Make reservations by noon on Fridays to make sure we have plenty! Call 540-439-4806 or

email Patty@Cows-N-Corn.com. 5225 Catlett Road, Midland. www.cows-n-corn.com CORN MAZE IN THE PLAINS. Weekends, Sept. 27- Nov. 9, check website for hours. A non-commercial fall festival where people can come to get healthy food, great farm products, see farm animals, and have a memorable family experience. Visit the Moonlight Maze after dark. Admission includes 5-acre corn maze, barnyard of fun with mini mazes, giant slides, bouncy track, hayloft, pumpkin sling shot, obstacle course, farm animals, food booth, farmers market, country store and hayrides. 4501 Old Tavern Road, The Plains. www.cornmazeintheplains.com FALL AND HALLOWEEN EVENTS AT SKY MEADOWS STATE PARK Most events are held multiple times on weekends throughout the fall: check website for details.

Ghosts of Mount Bleak House Tour. 12 - 4 p.m. Take a tour of Historic Mount Bleak House. Discover the stories of the people who lived in the home and perhaps meet a few "ghosts" along the way. Fall Farm Festival, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Celebrate

the fall harvest all month at the Mount Bleak Farm. Each full weekend in Oct. features live music, concessions, living history demonstrations, Mount Bleak House Tours, and a children's play area including a corn maze. The pick-your-own pumpkin patch will be open daily.

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HERE ’N’ THERE Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane. 540-592-3556. www.dcr.virginia.gov/ state-parks/sky-meadows.shtml#general_information

FREDERICKSBURG CARRIAGE GHOST TOURS. Every evening in Sept., Oct. and Nov. Fredericksburg, "America's Most Historic City," is also considered to be one of the most haunted cities in the country. Wind through historic downtown. Hear about all about the folklore of Fredericksburg including The Woman in White, The Ghost of Chatham and many others. This tour is appropriate for all ages. Check website for dates and times. Fredericksburg Visitor Center, 706 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg. www.oldetownecarriages.com

LOUDOUN AUTUMN EVENTS AT OATLANDS

Harvest Festival at Oatlands. Oct. 19, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. This annual celebration of fall will feature live music, hayrides, face painting, country line dancing, a scavenger hunt and much more.

Paranormal Tours at Oatlands. Oct. 24, 25, 26, 29 and 30 at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. A guided evening tour where guides share exciting ghost legends and unexplained happenings on the property. Not recommended for children under 8. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. 703-777-3174. www.oatlands.org

ORANGE THE MARKET AT GRELEN'S 2ND ANNUAL HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL. Oct. 25. The best place to celebrate the season. Grab your costume and come on out for music, a delicious chili dinner, palm reading, ghost stories and spooky berry field hikes. There is sure to be fun for all ages. The Market at Grelen, 15091 Yager Road, Somerset. 540-672-7268. www.themarketatgrelen.com

PRINCE WILLIAM AN ALL HALLOWS EVE AT RIPPON LODGE. Oct. 25, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Join us for a kid friendly trip to All Hallow’s Eve past and present. Play old fashioned games and enjoy traditional treats. Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15500 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge. 703-499-9812. www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation HAUNTED HAPPENINGS IN OLD TOWN MANASSAS. Oct. 25, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Grab the family and the dog for a wickedly good time in Old Town Manassas. Trick or treating, shopping, games, parade and costume contest. 9431 West Street, Manassas. 703-361-6599. www.historicmanassasinc.org SPIRITS OF MANASSAS. Oct. 25, 6 - 8 p.m. Follow costumed guides by lantern light through the streets of Old Town Manassas, hear about weird, sublime and strange happenings from the past and present, and meet some spirited characters along the way. Advanced tickets required. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William Street, Manassas. 703-368-1873. www.manassascity.org 18 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

RAPPAHANNOCK HALLOWEEN WEEKEND AT NARMADA WINERY. Celebrate Halloween! Dress up in your best costume to receive fabulous prizes and giveaways. Narmada Winery, 43 Narmada Lane, Amissville. 540-937-8215. narmadawinery.com

BOOK SIGNINGS ALBEMARLE VIRGINIA ARTS OF THE BOOK CENTER RAUCOUS AUCTION. Nov. 14, 5:30 - 8 p.m. Celebrate unique works of art including dozens of handmade books, prints, etchings, and other works. The event will feature a live auction, silent auction, food, drinks, and festivities. Virginia Arts of the Book Center, 2125 Ivy Square Shopping Center, Charlottesville. (enter through the Art Box.) 434-924-3296. virginiabookarts.org

CONCERTS AND THEATRE ALBEMARLE EVENTS AT THE PARAMOUNT THEATER

REEL ROCK Film Tour: Valley Uprising. Oct. 18, 7 p.m.

New Orleans Legends – Allan Toussaint and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Oct. 30, 8 p.m.

The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Charlottesville, 434-979-1333. www.theparamount.net PIANO POWER AT CHARLOTTESVILLE SYMPHONY. Nov. 15 - 16. Wolfgang Amadè Mozart: Symphony No. 35 in D Major, K.385, “Haffner.” Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Suite No. 4. “Mozartiana,” Op. 61 in G Major. With Russian pianist Gleb Ivanov. Check website for times and locations. Tickets: 434-924-3376 or www.artsboxoffice.virginia.edu. For general information about the Charlottesville Symphony: wwwcvillesymphony.org VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL. Nov. 6 - 9. Hosted by the University of Virginia, the festival takes place each fall at venues throughout Charlottesville. Over 70 films will be screened and more than 80 guest artists and speakers are expected to participate. Opening night gala will be Nov. 7, 9:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Theater. There’s no better way to toast the fun and film-filled weekend to come! 434-982-5277. www.virginiafilmfestival.org

CLARKE THE WOODSHEDDERS. Dec. 13, 8 - 10 p.m. The Woodshedders bring together the diverse influences of American Country, Rhythm & Blues, Old-Time, Bluegrass, and Gypsy Jazz. The Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Court, Berryville. 540-955-2004. barnsofrosehill.org

CULPEPER EVENTS AT CULPEPER STATE THEATER

A Tribute to the Music of Motown. Oct. 11, 8 p.m. A 12-piece band performing some of the

AUTUMN 2014

biggest Motown hits. Come on down if you love the music of The Temptations, The Four Tops, Diana Ross and The Supremes and Aretha Franklin.

Blame Canada: A Tribute to Rush. Oct. 18, 8 p.m. Blame Canada is the premiere Rush tribute band in the Washington, D.C. area. Their shows are fun for both the casual Rush fan and Rush geeks who wants to hear the deeper tracks and songs they haven’t played in concert for years. Judah & the Lion with special guest Joseph.

Oct. 25, 8 p.m. An Americana-folk band with their roots planted in Nashville. Their music comes from many influences that cumulates in a blend of folk instruments played with fresh musicianship and powerful vocal harmonies. They love music, life, and people.

Rhonda Vincent, the Queen of Bluegrass.

Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Nominated Bluegrass Queen. Culpeper State Theater. 305 South Main Street, Culpeper. 540-829-0292. www.culpepertheatre.org

FAUQUIER PIEDMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: ARIA IN LOVE? TIMELESS OPERA ARIAS AND DUETS. Oct. 25, 3 p.m. Elizabeth Shoenfelt, Soprano, Bryan Jackson, Baritone. Highland Center for the Arts, 597 Broadview Avenue, Warrenton. www.piedmontsymphony.org FAR FROM HOME – A USO MUSICAL SHOW. Oct. 3 - 19, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. A glimpse of the type of variety show our World War II soldiers received while they were stationed Far From Home. Music, dancing, comedy, and stories of home will be the highlights of this evening of entertainment. Appropriate for all ages. Fauquier Community Theatre. 4225 Aiken Drive, Warrenton. 540-349-8760. fctstage.org

FREDERICKSBURG WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION BY AGATHA CHRISTIE. Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, 7:30, Oct. 5, 2 p.m. Stage Door Productions. Performed in the Renwick Building located on Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg. 540-903-3808. www.stagedoorproductions.org MONTY PYTHON'S SPAMALOT, Sept. 20 Nov. 16. Lovingly and unapologetically “ripped off ” from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, this spoof of the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table features a bevy of beautiful show girls, personable cows, killer rabbits, and French characters. This smash Broadway hit is a “must-see”. Riverside Theatre, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg. 888-999-8527. www.riversidedt.com

LOUDOUN MUSICAL EVENING IN OATLANDS MANSION. Nov. 15. An intimate musical performance in the mansion at Oatlands, featuring the Loudoun Symphony String Quartet. Light refreshments at 5:30 p.m., performance from 6 -7 p.m., and a reception with the artists from 7-8 p.m. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. 703-777-3174. www.oatlands.org

HERE ’N’ THERE MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL. Oct. 30 Nov. 2. Four days of fantastic films in a spectacular setting. A carefully curated selection of narrative and documentary films will screen in an intimate theatre environment, followed by fascinating Q and A’s with world-renowned filmmakers and actors. The festival kicks off with a festive “Meet the Artists” dinner. Other events include Panel Discussions, Interactive Workshops, One-on-One Conversations with filmmakers and industry representatives, and of course, lots of great parties! Various locations. middleburgfilm.org

Oct. 31, 8 p.m., Nov. 1, 8 p.m., Nov. 2, 2 p.m., Nov. 7, 8 p.m., Nov. 8, 8 p.m, Nov. 9, 2 p.m. Based on the Dickens novel, it will engage you with its pathos and drama, while delighting you with its outstanding musical numbers.

Loudoun Lyric Opera presents: “The Pirates of Penzance.” Nov. 21, 3 p.m., Nov. 22, 3 p.m. and

J. REILLY LEWIS AND MEMBERS OF THE WASHINGTON BACH CONSORT. Oct. 18, 7 and 9 p.m. Founded in 1977 by J. Reilly Lewis, the Washington Bach Consort is a professional chorus and orchestra with period instruments noted for its sublime renditions of Bach and his Baroque contemporaries. Waterford Concert Series. Waterford Old School, Fairfax Street, Waterford. 540-882-3018. www.waterfordfoundation.org EVENTS AT FRANKLIN PARK ARTS CENTER

“Dream of a Good Death.” Oct. 9, 8 p.m. In an

evening of music and history, Clark Hansbarger’s “Dream of a Good Death” traces the arc of the Civil War from its beginning to its end. Part folk opera, part multi-media lecture, this cycle of original songs follows the trials, hopes, fears and sacrifices of the Civil War.

Main Street Theatre presents “Oliver.”

8 p.m. and Nov. 23, 3 p.m. This comic opera in two acts, is the story of Frederick, who was mistakenly apprenticed as a child to a band of zanily kind pirates until his 21st birthday. At his release, he finds out that he was born on the 29th of February, in a leap year. As a result, his 21st birthday will not technically roll around for quite a while, and his honor compels him to remain with the pirates during that time. Luckily, his love, Mabel, the daughter of the pirates' next target, agrees to wait for him.

Andrew McKnight & Beyond Borders.

Nov. 29, 8 p.m. Award-winning singer/songwriter Andrew McKnight’s music traverses influences from Appalachia, tasteful slide and jazzy blues, feisty anthems, rustic folk and guitar-driven rock. Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. 540-338-7973. www.franklinparkartscenter.org

PRINCE WILLIAM ROOFTOP PRODUCTIONS PERFORMS “MOON OVER BUFFALO” BY KEN LUDWIG. Nov. 7-22, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. The hilarious

farce centers on George and Charlotte Hay, once headlining stars of the 1930’s and 40’s. But their stars are fading. They have one last chance, but everything that can go wrong, does. The Kellar Theater, Center for the Arts, 9419 Battle St., Manassas. 703-330-2787. www.center-for-the-arts.org "COLIN" THE BALLET. Nov.7, 7:30 p.m., Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 9, 3 p.m. This poignant ballet tells the very personal story of Colin J. Wolfe, the Marine son of Manassas Ballet Theatre’s artistic director, Amy Grant Wolfe, who lost his life in Iraq. “Colin” debuts as an evening-length ballet accompanied by the Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra. Manassas Ballet Theatre. 9004 Mathis Avenue, Manassas. 703-257-1811. www.manassasballet.org EVENTS AT THE HYLTON CENTER

Aquila Theatre: “The Tempest.” Oct. 11, 8

p.m. Brought to our stage by the acclaimed BritishAmerican touring company, Aquila Theatre, this play is a magical tale of shipwrecks and storms, revenge and reconciliation, and a father’s love for his child. “The Tempest” is Shakespeare’s ultimate commentary on life and art, vengeance and forgiveness, revered for its blending of darkness and light, comedy, drama, and romance. Merchant Hall.

Swing Machine's Big Band Tribute to Glenn Miller and the Big Band Era. Oct. 25, 7:30

p.m. An evening of “real” Big Band music - Journey to

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“The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” Oct. 31, 8

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possibly no one more qualified to pay tribute to two legendary crooners than this consummate entertainer. She comes to the Hylton Center paying homage to Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, two iconic American singers whom she knew as “Dad” and “Uncle Frank.” Merchant Hall. THE U.S. ARMY BAND "PERSHING'S OWN," AMERICAN HEROES. Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m. The premier musical organization of the U.S. Army presents a tribute to our nation’s veterans, who, through their service and sacrifice, have made our country great. Honoring veterans from every war and conflict, this concert celebrates Veterans’ Day with a mix of music that will appeal to every audience member. Merchant Hall.

A TASTE OF OPERA BY VIRGINIA OPERA. Nov. 18, 1:30 p.m. A program of opera favorites by the young professionals of the Emerging Artists Program. The program will feature highlights from Virginia Opera’s 2014-15 Season at George Mason University. Gregory Family Theater. Hylton Performing Arts Center. 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. www.hyltoncenter.org

RAPPAHANNOCK EVENTS AT RAAC COMMUNITY THEATRE

"No Ordinary Person," Oct. 17 - 18. RAAC's

annual evening of autobiographical stories will be back for its 16th year featuring new storytellers and tales.

“The Wizard of Oz” Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 14. Yes,

the Wiz is coming for the holidays. Check website for times. RAAC Community Theatre, 310 Gay Street, Washington. www.raac.org FALL EVENTS AT THE THEATRE AT WASHINGTON

An Evening of Gorgeous Arias and Duets. Oct. 18, 8 p.m. Some of the world’s best loved songs from opera and operetta, including Gilbert and Sullivan.

Molasses Creek. Nov. 1, 8 p.m. The high-energy acoustic group with a captivating stage presence, elegant harmonies, blazing instrumentals, and a quirky sense of humor.

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Mostly Schubert: A Classical Piano Recital with Song. Nov. 9, 3 p.m. Piano solos: Sonata in A Major, D.959 by Schubert; Sonata in A minor, K.310 by Mozart; four pieces, Op. 119 by Brahms. Arias: “Porgi Amor” and “Non mi dir” by Mozart; four Lieder by Schubert.

The Smithsonian at Little Washington. Nov. 16, 3 p.m. The Smithsonian Chamber Players

AUTUMN 2014

perform two great 19th-century works, Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Ghost” Trio, Op. 70, No. 1 in D Major, and Robert Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 47. AN EVENING OF GREAT JAZZ. Nov. 22, 8 p.m. World-renowned clarinetist and saxophonist, Ken Peplowski, joins forces with the fabulous jazz musician, Chuck Redd, on vibes and drums. Tommy Cecil is featured on bass. The Theatre at Washington. 291 Gay St., Washington. 540-675-1253. www.theatre-washington-va.com.

DINING AND FOODIES ALBEMARLE FOODIE AND COOKING EVENTS AT MONTICELLO

Apple Tasting. Oct. 18, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Tom

Burford (aka 'Professor Apple'), and Gabriele Rausse, Monticello's director of gardens and grounds, will provide numerous apple varieties, each introduced with a discussion of their history and culture. Participants will taste, savor, and, most importantly, rate each apple. Reservations required. Meet at Jefferson’s Tufton Farm.

Edible native fruits and nuts. Oct. 23 and 25, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. This exploration of the SaundersMonticello Trail fruit and nut room will answer your questions about which berries, nuts, and other fruits are edible. Learn about their histories and ways to prepare some of the many native varieties in Albemarle County. Reservations required. Meets at trailhead of the Monticello Trail (Kemper Park).

Cooking Unusual Vegetables. Nov. 22, 9:30

a.m. - 12 p.m. Chef Gabriele Rausse will introduce participants to surprising curiosities like sea kale, cardoon, and Caracalla bean flowers as well as underappreciated gourmet vegetables such as endive, Florence fennel, fava beans, and crowder peas. Reservations required. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville (GPS address only). 434-984-9800. www.monticello.org

CULPEPER TASTE OF CULPEPER. Oct. 12, 12 - 5 p.m. Culpeper Renaissance’s tenth annual “Taste of Culpeper – a Wine, Food, and Arts Festival” is an event is sure to please wine enthusiasts, foodies and followers of unique arts and crafts. Experience the very best in Virginia wines, local cuisine and microbrews. And you won’t want to miss the first ever Downtown Culpeper Waiters Race, an entertaining test of a waiters speed and ability to carry a full tray without tipping it! Live music and free activities for children. The Depot, 111 South Commerce Street, Culpeper. 540-825-4416. www.culpeperdowntown.com CULPEPER DOWNTOWN 6TH ANNUAL RESTAURANT WEEK. Oct. 13 - 19. The event encourages diners to break out of typical work-week patterns and share a meal with family and friends at downtown restaurants. With specially priced menu

HERE ’N’ THERE

TOP DOG RESORT

options it's a great excuse to revisit old favorites or try something new. Historic Downtown Culpeper. 540-825-4416. www.culpeperdowntown.com

Premier Small Dog Boarding A Loving Home-Away-From-Home

LOUDOUN

Exclusively For Pets UNDER 25 Pounds No Kennels • No Cages • No Leashes Outstanding Romping Space Galore Lavish Pampering & Abundant Cuddling

FALL EVENTS AT THE RESTAURANT AT PATOWMACK FARM

"Feast in the Forest," Oct. 19, 3:30 p.m. Enjoy

540.788.4837

a walking trip down to Catoctin Creek and have dinner in the forest with a discussion of foraged items located on Patowmack Farm.

www.topdogresort.com

"Smoking and Mead," Nov. 8, 11 a.m. Learn the ancient art of preserving by smoke and how to add the sweet flavor of smoke to just about anything. The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm. 42461 Lovettsville Road, Lovettsville. 540 822-9017. www.patowmackfarm.com

LOUISA 10TH ANNUAL CHARITY CHILI COOK OFF. Nov. 1, 12 - 5 p.m. Enthusiastic chili teams from all over Virginia and beyond have signed up to vie for the bragging rights to the best chili in Central Virginia. Great chili, great live music, competition and fun is the order of the day. Cornhole tournament, drawings, a Wheel of Fortune, and a silent auction. Earlyhouse, 3998 Yanceyville Road, Louisa. 540-967-1832. www.visitlouisa.com/event/the-10th-annual-charitychili-cook-off

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS ALBEMARLE CROZET ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL. Oct. 11 - 12, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 100+ artists, barbeque, wine tastings, children's entertainment and a farm tent. No pets. Rain or shine; all exhibits under cover. Claudius Crozet Park, Park Road, Crozet. crozetfestival.com

FAUQUIER WARRENSTOCK: SHOP HOP, WINE TASTING, AND LIVE MUSIC. Oct. 4, 12 - 5 p.m. The Shops at Fifth and Main host the 60's-themed Shop Hop and Wine Tasting. Dust off your bell bottoms and tie-dye and sip local wines (Granite Heights Winery will be at Great Harvest), eat local foods and listen to live music provided by Drum & Strum. Located at the corner of 5th & Main Streets in historic downtown Warrenton. www.eventbrite. com/e/warrenstock-shop-hop-wine-tasting-livemusic-tickets-12555617189

FREDERICKSBURG FREDERICKSBURG FALL HOME AND CRAFT FESTIVAL. Oct. 18, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Oct. 19, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. A great place for homeowners to knock out their to-do lists! Renovate your kitchen, plan a new patio addition or finish your basement. Get your holiday shopping started early with high-quality crafts, including home decor, specialty foods, knick-knacks, clothing, photography, pottery and more! Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center, 2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg. 540-548-5555. www.fredericksburgfallhomeshow.com

Weston

Have Your Next Event Here!

A Virginia and National Historic Landmark

Parties Picnics Events Tours by appointment

A Unique Fauquier County Farmstead and House Museum Located in Casanova, Va. www.historicweston.org • (540) 788-9220 or (540) 364-3161

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 21

HERE ’N’ THERE LOUISA LOUISA FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL. Oct. 18. We will be partnering with the Town of Mineral and Mineral Farmers Market for a day of family fun. The activities, entertainment, hay rides, craft show, and delicious food make this a day that everyone can enjoy. Mineral Farmers Market 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Children's Activities 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Craft Fair 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Walton Park, 301 East Sixth Street, Mineral. 540-967-4420. www.lcpr.info

LOUDOUN ALDIE HARVEST FESTIVAL. Oct. 18. A Festival featuring history, antiques and crafts, food, music, and a functioning double-wheel mill. Celebrating 50 years of the festival, which won Loudoun's "Event of the Year" for 2010 and 2013. The village of Aldie. villageofaldie.com/harvestfest.htm WATERFORD FAIR. Oct. 3 - 5, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The oldest–and best–juried crafts fair in Virginia. Three days of living history, food, handicrafts, and just plain fun. Traditional music and dance, reenactments and historical interpretations of historic village life and tours of private historic homes. 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford. 540-882-3018. www.waterfordfoundation.org/waterford-fair

MADISON GRAVES MOUNTAIN APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL. Weekends Oct. 4 - 19, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Fun filled days with good food and entertainment including bluegrass music, cloggers, over 70 arts and crafts vendors, hayrides, hay mountain, hay maze and horseback rides. Experience the days of yesteryear watching apple butter being cooked in kettles over and open fire. Our orchards are open for apple picking. Graves' Mountain Lodge, 205 Graves Mountain Lane. Syria. 540-923-4231. www. gravesmountain.com/events-calendar/apple-harvest

NEARBY STAFFORD COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND HOMEMAKING FAIR. Oct. 17 - 19. Everything you expect in a classic country fair—live music, kids' rides, games with prizes and plenty of food. Vendors, displays, entertainment and demonstrations. Gates open Fri. at 5 p.m., Sat. and Sun. at 10 a.m. 2135 Mountainview Road, Stafford. 540-840-8992. www.staffordfair.com

NELSON THE FESTY. Oct. 10 - 12. The Festy Experience is so much more than a typical music festival—it’s a truly unique celebration of music and outdoor living. A quaint and welcoming atmosphere, more reminiscent of a relaxing getaway than a bustling festival. Camp on the grounds or stay nearby. Create your own unique and memorable weekend. The Concert Grounds at Devils Backbone, 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland. www.thefesty.com

ORANGE FALL FIBER FESTIVAL AND SHEEPDOG TRIALS AT MONTPELIER. Oct. 4 - 5. Great workshops, animal exhibits, sheep dog trials, 22 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

demonstrations, a fleece sale, music and more. James Madison's Montpelier, 11199 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station. 540-672-2728. www.fallfiberfestival.org

FARM AND GARDEN ALBEMARLE MEADOW GARDENS AND FALL FRUITS. Oct. 18, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Learn to pair heirloom bulbs with native flowers and grasses in a meadow garden, large or small, with local gardening teacher, consultant, and writer Cathy Clary during her presentation "Spring and Fall in Virginia: Combining Bulbs and Meadows." Taste a delicious traditional apple dish cooked over an open fire using heirloom fruit and 19th century utensils. Tufton Farm. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville (GPS address only). 434-984-9800. www.monticello.org

CLARKE ARBORFEST AT BLANDY STATION. Oct. 11 - 12, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. This annual fall plant sale and garden extravaganza features vendors selling perennials, shrubs, trees, and fine items for the garden. Includes children’s activities, food vendors and more. Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce. 540-837-1758, ext. 224. www.blandy.virginia.edu

CULPEPER CULPEPER DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET. Ongoing through Nov. 22, Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Nestled at the end of Davis Street, the market offers a one-stop shop for all things local with more than 30 vendors. www. culpeperdowntown.com, www.facebook.com/ CulpeperFarmersMarket

FAUQUIER FAUQUIER COUNTY FARM TOUR. Oct. 11, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. This year's award-winning farm tour will be held in Southern Fauquier County. Visit any or all of the farms on the tour and enjoy animal exhibits, interpretive tours, demonstrations, farm machinery, cows and calves, and hayrides. Various locations. 540-422-8280. www.fauquiercounty.gov/documents/departments/ agdev/pdf/fallfarmtourbrochure.pdf

LOUDOUN LOUDOUN COUNTY MASTER GARDENER OPEN HOUSE. Nov. 6, 7 – 9 p.m. Interested in becoming a Master Gardener or learning more about the program? Please join us for fun, food and informative program. Registration is not required. Rust Library, 380 Old Waterford Road, Leesburg. loudouncountymastergardeners.org LOUDOUN FALL FARM COLOR TOUR. Oct. 18 - 19, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy free, self-guided driving tours to participating farms and wineries during these county-sponsored events. Animals, wine, local produce and more. 703-737-8322. Free map and brochure at www.loudounfarms.org.

AUTUMN 2014

FUNDRAISERS FREDERICKSBURG HOSPICE OF THE RAPIDAN'S "UN-GALA." Oct. 11, 5 p.m. You don't have to make changes in latitudes to make changes in attitudes. There's one particular harbor where you can have a cheeseburger in paradise with a son of a sailor, and step up to the "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" Bar. The Harbor Club, Fawn Lake, Spotsylvania. Dress: Hawaiian shirts, flip flops, and shades. Proceeds to benefit Hospice of the Rapidan patient care. Hospice of the Rapidan. 540-825-4840. www.hotr.org

LOUDOUN BLUE RIDGE SPEECH AND HEARING CINDERELLA TEA. Oct. 26, 11 a.m and 4 p.m. Cinderella will welcome her esteemed guests for tea. This majestic event is in its 13th year and has been a sold out event in past years. Come for a magical day including sandwiches, tea, lemonade and desserts, a princess ballet performed by Warrenton Ballet Company, The Bippiti Boppiti Boutique – magical fun activities and pampering boutique, and an opportunity for a carriage ride in Cinderella’s horse drawn carriage. There will be “Tea Alternatives” for adults presented through a cash bar. Silent auction and raffle featuring a wide range of items. Proceeds to benefit Blue Ridge Speech and Hearing. Salamander Resort and Spa, 500 North Pendleton Street, Middleburg. 540-687-3600. www.salamanderresort. com. Tea information: http://038ef4a.netsolhost. com/wordpress1/?page_id=958

PRINCE WILLIAM 1940’S STYLE HANGER DINNER AND DANCE, “A SALUTE TO OUR HEROES” Oct. 11, 6:30 - 11:30 p.m. Admission includes a buffet dinner, swing music (40’s style) by The Swing Machine, dancing, and silent auction. Cash bar. Period dress encouraged. The proceeds from the event will go toward the Museum’s Building Fund. Manassas Airport, 10600 Harry Parrish Boulevard, Manassas. 703-346-3212. www.freedommuseum.org

HISTORY - MUSEUMS ALBEMARLE ARCHAEOLOGY OPEN HOUSE AT THOMAS JEFFERSON'S MONTICELLO. Oct. 17 - 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Exhibits on recent discoveries in the field and the lab, and walking tours of the vanished Monticello plantation landscape. Archaeology staff members will be on hand to answer questions. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville (GPS address only). 434-984-9800. www.monticello.org

CLARKE EVENTS AT HISTORIC LONG BRANCH PLANTATION.

“Riding through History: Clarke’s Colonial Roads,” Oct. 17, 6 - 8 pm. The

exhibition preview night will honor Clarke County

HERE ’N’ THERE resident, Matthew Mackay-Smith, and his lifetime of observational history. Fine artist Leanne Fink’s exhibition, “Pets, People, Places,” will also be on display in the Hunt Room.

American Indian Heritage Day. Nov. 8, 1 - 5 p.m. Spend the day at Long Branch exploring Virginia’s

diverse American Indian History. Activities will include songs, talks, demonstrations, artifact viewing, hands-on activities, informational videos and tours. Long Branch Plantation. 830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood. 540-837-1856. www.visitlongbranch.org

CULPEPER "MAGICAL HISTORY TOUR" OF CULPEPER. Ongoing through Nov. 30. History with a twist! Hop on the Culpeper Trolley for a series of six FREE three-hour tours starting in June through Nov. Each of the six tours will visit two different destinations - a historic site and the ‘magical’ element of a winery or distillery visit. The Magical History Tours will start at 4:30 p.m. departing from the historic train depot, the second of each month. Reservations required. 540-675-0611. www.facebook.com/ events/626536850775822/ BRANDY STATION FOUNDATION SEMINAR: DAN BEATTIE, A CONTRAST: CAVALRY AT BRANDY STATION/FIVE FORKS. Oct. 26, 2 p.m.The Graffiti House, 19484 Brandy Road, Brandy Station. 540-727-7718. www.brandystationfoundation.com

FAUQUIER EVENTS AT SKY MEADOWS STATE PARK

Digging the Past. Oct. 25 - 26, 12 - 4 p.m. Here is your chance to play archaeologist! Join park rangers at our "dig site" and hunt for actual artifacts found here at Sky Meadows. Learn basic archaeological and conservation principles and discover how to interpret the history associated with found objects. Appropriate for all ages.

History Hike: Lost Mountain. Nov. 15, 1 - 3

p.m. Take a walk with our park historian and learn about the people and events that shaped this land from Colonial times to now. Walk in the footsteps of George Washington, the valley's first land developer. Total hiking distance: 2.5 miles. Wear comfortable hiking footwear and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Sunscreen and insect repellent are highly recommended. Location: Meet at the Lost Mountain Trailhead

Hearth Cooking Demonstration. Nov. 22, 1

- 3 p.m. Come home for the holidays - let the smell of homemade pies lead you into the log kitchen. Sample hearth cooked pies and take home copies of the traditional recipes. Historic Area: Log Kitchen

Colonial Cooking. Oct. 26, 12 - 4:30 p.m. Visit with our Colonial cooks who will be cooking up some tasty 18th century treats in this demonstration program. You'll see how food was cooked on an open hearth and get to sample treats made from historic

recipes. Historic Area: Log Kitchen Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, 540-592-3556. http://www.dcr.virginia. gov/state-parks/sky-meadows.shtml#general_ information

LOUDOUN FALL EVENTS AT THE MOSBY HERITAGE AREA ASSOCIATION.

17th Annual Conference on the Art of Command in the Civil War. Oct. 3 - 5. A full

weekend tour. Focus will be on the first day of action at Gettysburg.

Chrysanthemum Jubilee at Rockburn. Nov. 15. Dancing will be led by the Shenandoah Valley Civil War Era Dancers. Cavaliers, Courage and Coffee Program: The Haunted Turnpike. Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m. A

series of unnerving sketches of the unexplainable, uncomfortable, and downright haunted events from Civil War Aldie and the Little River Turnpike. Aldie Mill.

Cavaliers, Courage and Coffee Program: The Great Burning Raid. Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m.

The 150th anniversary of the Great Burning Raid in Loudoun Valley by 5,000 Union cavalry ordered to burn out Mosby and his command. Silver Brook Farm Bed and Breakfast. More details atwww.mosbyheritagearea.org.

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 23

HERE ’N’ THERE See our ad on page 51 EVENTS AT THE THOMAS BALCH LIBRARY

Photo Exhibit: The Grist Mill in Northern Virginia by Jim Stewart. Oct. - Dec. Exhibit: Native Americans in Loudoun County by the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum. Nov. 1 - 30. "Scalawag: A White Southerner’s Journey through Segregation to Human Rights Activism." Oct. 5, 2 p.m. The surprising story of a

white working-class boy who became an unlikely civil rights activist. This engrossing, witty tale of escape from what once seemed certain fate, invites readers to reflect on how moral courage can transform a life.

"Martha Jefferson Randolph: Republican Daughter and Plantation Mistress," by Billy Wayson. Nov. 2 , 2 p.m. Nowhere are the

personal challenges associated with public service more poignantly expressed than in Jefferson’s letters to daughter Martha (“Patsy”).

Thomas Balch Library, 208 West Market Street, Leesburg. 703-737-7195. www.leesburgva.gov/index.aspx?page=84

ORANGE CIVIL WAR TRAIL AND GILMORE CABIN TOUR. Nov. 15, 2 p.m. Walk in the footsteps of McGowan's Brigade on Montpelier's Civil War

Trail, which begins at a reconstructed portion of a Confederate encampment James Madison's Montpelier, 11199 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station. 540-672-2728. www.montpelier.org

PRINCE WILLIAM "WHAT'S UNDER YOUR FEET" EXHIBIT. Oct. 24 - Dec. 31. Various times. This exhibit will use artifacts from the museum’s collection combined with graphic images to talk about archaeology and what it tells us about the past. 703-368-1873. www.manassascity.org/index.aspx?NID=1183 OPEN HEARTH COOKING CLASS. Nov. 15, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Gear up for the Thanksgiving season by learning the skills of open-hearth cooking. Join an experienced open-hearth cooking historian and learn the basic skills needed to prepare food over an open fire. Haslip Farmhouse, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow. 703-365-7895. www.pwcgov.org/brentsville

HORSE EVENTS/STEEPLECHASES

LOUDOUN VIRGINIA FALL RACES IN MIDDLEBURG. Oct. 4. Come witness the nation’s top steeplechase horses and riders as they race over timber, brush and turf courses. Family fun fair with petting zoo, pony rides and big slide. Spectators are encouraged to come early and get a taste of fox hunting with the finals of the Field Hunter Championships held on the racecourse at 9 am. Glenwood Park, Middleburg. www.vafallraces.com

ORANGE MONTPELIER HUNT RACES. Nov. 1, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Horse racing on the grounds of historic Montpelier, home of James and Dolley Madison. Seven exciting horse races, plus Jack Russell Terrier races, stick horse races for the kids and unique shopping. Hat contest and tailgate contest. 11407 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station. www.montpelierraces.org

OUTDOOR EVENTS ALBEMARLE

FAUQUIER INTERNATIONAL GOLD CUP. Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The 77th running of one of the nation’s largest steeplechase races features hurdle and timber horse races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tailgate and hat contests. Great Meadow, 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains. 540-347-2612. www.vagoldcup.com

BIRD WATCHING AND WALKS AT MONTICELLO

Owl Prowl. Nov. 20 and 22, 5 - 7 p.m. Join seasoned birder Jerry Therrien for an evening of listening to the hoots, wails, and shrieks of owls and learning about their habits. We recommend hiking

Your World. Your News. Your WMRA. Whether the news is happening across the globe or down the street, NPR© News and WMRA keep you connected with in-depth reporting that goes beyond the headlines. Stay informed. Discover a world of news and culture, people and issues, information and insight. Charlottesville 103.5 Harrisonburg 90.7 · Winchester 94.5 Lexington 89.9 · Farmville 91.3

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24 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014

HERE ’N’ THERE boots, water, binoculars, and flashlights. Registration required.

Holiday Bird Walk at Tufton Farm. Dec.

11, 8 - 10:30 a.m. Winter is the season to discover the resident birds in a rich variety of habitats. Jerry Therrien and Peggy Cornett will lead this three-hour trek from Tufton Farm to the Rivanna River. We recommend warm, waterproof shoes and binoculars. Jefferson’s Tufton Farm, Reservations required. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville (GPS address only). 434-984-9800. www.monticello.org

LOUDOUN FALL DOG WALK AT OATLANDS. Nov. 1, 9:30 a.m. Explore the historic grounds and fields of Oatlands with your dog on a guided tour. Preregistration required. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. 703-777-3174. www.oatlands.org BIRDING AT THE BLUE RIDGE CENTER. Oct. 25 and Nov. 23, 8 a.m. The Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy leads a bird walk at the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship (BRCES), a beautiful 900-acre preserve in northwestern Loudoun County. The property includes diverse wildlife habitats, including meadows, streams, and heavily forested slopes. Meet at the Education Center; bring binoculars. BRCES, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Route 671. Joe Coleman, 540-554-2542. Locations vary, check website. www.loudounwildlife.org

ORANGE JAMES MADISON'S MONTPELIER WOODS WALKS. Oct. 19 and Oct. 26. Hike through Montpelier’s Landmark Forest—a rare hardwood old growth forest .Learn about ecology, conservation, and Madison's role as an early environmentalist. The trail is a gentle 1-mile loop. Check website for times. James Madison's Montpelier, 11199 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station. 540-672-2728. www.montpelier.org THE GRELEN "WALK AND TALK." Oct. 18 and Nov. 8. A vigorous walk/hike (up to 3 miles) through part of Grelen's 600-acre nursery. They are all typically lead by founder and co-owner of Grelen Nursery, Dan Gregg. The topic on Oct. 18 is "Fall Color" and participants will be exploring trees and shrubs on the nursery that are especially beautiful this time of year. The Nov. 8 hike will focus on plants as they transition from "Fall to Winter." These "Walk and Talks" are casual and questions and conversation are encouraged. They tend to be small and are a great time to pick Dan's brain with all sorts of plant questions! (9 years old+) See website for times and registration. The Market at Grelen, 15091 Yager Rd., Somerset. 540-672-7268. www.themarketatgrelen.com

VINEYARDS & WINERIES ALBEMARLE FALL EVENTS AT KESWICK VINEYARDS

Yappy Hours, Every Sunday through October.

Come visit us on these dog day Sundays with your

furry friend, or meet a new one from a local animal shelter. Keswick Vineyards makes a donation to the visiting shelter for every bottle of wine purchased to be enjoyed while you’re here!

Yappy Howl-O-Ween party and costume contest with the Charlottesville/ Albemarle SPCA. Oct. 26, 12 - 3 p.m.

5024 Leeds Manor Road, Hume. 540-364-2466. www.vineyardscrossing.com/winecamp

LOUDOUN FALL EVENTS AT BOGATI BODEGA

Celebrate the Harvest. Oct. 11, 12 - 8 p.m. Our

Keswick Vineyards, 1575 Keswick Winery Drive, Keswick. 434-244-3341. www.keswickvineyards.com

FAUQUIER FALL EVENTS AT THREE FOX VINEYARDS

Harvest Festival. Oct 18. Join us for a hayride and lots of fall fun! Live music by the Exaggerations. Halloween Celebration! Oct. 31 - Nov. 2. Discounts for everyone in costume and our Haunted Trail will be open. 7th Annual Post Harvest Roast and Toast! Nov 8 - 9. Toast the completion of harvest

by roasting marshmallows over a toasty fire! Music by Annie Stokes, an indie-folk performer with hints of southern soul and Americana, from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Sparkling for the Holidays! Nov 15 - 16. Stock up for your holiday parties! Discounts on our

Thibaut–Janisson Sparkling Chardonnay. Enjoy jazz and pop standards with live piano music.

Holiday Open House & Gift Sale. Dec 6 -7 and

Dec. 13-14. Special discounts on holiday merchandise. After shopping, enjoy a hayride around the vineyard. Live music both weekends from 2 - 4 p.m. Three Fox Vineyards. 10100 Three Fox Lane, Delaplane. 540-364-6073. www.threefoxvineyards.com FALL EVENTS AT BARREL OAK WINERY

Fall Harvest Festival. Oct. 10 - 13. Live music through Monday afternoon. Pumpkin decorating for the kids and yummy food vendors for everyone. This is going to be a great celebration of all things harvest! Meet the Featured Artist Elaine Florimonte. Oct. 26, 1 - 6 p.m. Grab a glass of your

favorite Barrel Oak wine and chat it up with this very talented and entertaining artist.

Halloween Weekend Celebration at Barrel Oak Winery. Oct. 31 - Nov. 2. Live Music Friday

night, all day Saturday, and Sunday afternoon. Open until 9 p.m. on Fri. and Sat. Yummy food vendors for everyone.

Warrior Aviation Fundraiser. Nov. 15, 6 - 9 p.m. Enjoy rocking good music from EnVee and a glass of wine. Your door charge supports this foundation which supports wounded veterans. Barrel Oak Winery. 3623 Grove Lane, Delaplane. 540-364-6402. www.barreloak.com VIRGINIA WINE CAMP AT THE INN AT VINEYARDS CROSSING. Nov. 21 - 23 and Dec. 12 - 14. Join the Vintage Piedmont Wineries for a weekend of education and fun at Wine Camp. Socialize with Virginia winery owners and Industry professionals while you learn more about the Virginia wine industry for 3 days/2 nights (Meals and lodging included). Limited to 10 people.

harvest is in full swing; join us as we celebrate the beautiful days of autumn. Enjoy great wines, food and live music.

Girls Day Out. Dec. 6, 1 p.m. Need help with your Christmas list? Make something personal. Feeling a little crafty? Paint your own wine glass! Reservations required. 35246 Harry Byrd Highway, Round Hill. 540-338-1144. www.bogatibodega.com

DOUKENIE HARVEST FESTIVAL. Oct. 18. Stop by on your travels on the Loudoun County Fall Color Tour! Celebrate Virginia Wine Month and the harvest with a barrel tasting event Enjoy delicious Monks BBQ and music by The Short Hill Mountain Boys. Pull up a bale of hay and taste one of our new releases. Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Purcellville. 540-668-6464. www.doukeniewinery.com

MADISON DUCARD FALL HARVEST AND LEAF PEEP FESTIVAL. Oct. 25, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The leaves are changing, the harvest is in, and we're celebrating the season with a party! We'll have rollicking great live music from Yankee Dixie and Scuffletown, local food for sale, vineyard tours, local glass artist Patty Sevre, and more. Ducard Vineyards. 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan. 540-923-4206, www.ducardvineyards.com

ORANGE ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF. Oct. 19, 12 - 5 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of chili, wine tasting, and live music. Old House Vineyards. 18351 Corkys Lane, Culpeper. 540-423-1032. www.oldhousevineyards.com

RAPPAHANNOCK EVENTS AT GRAY GHOST VINEYARDS

Gray Ghost's 20th Anniversary Gala Nov.

15, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Gray Ghost's Holiday Kick-off! Nov. 28, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Enjoy one day only gift specials and live music by Valerie Von Fange. This is the perfect event to entertain guests! The Cork Christmas display makes its annual debut. Gray Ghost Vineyards, 14706 Lee Highway, Amissville. 540-937-4869. grayghostvineyards.com NARMADA'S GALA ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION. Nov 15. A wine and food spectacular! Narmada Winery, 43 Narmada Lane, Amissville. 540-937-8215. narmadawinery.com

MUCH MORE ON OUR ONLINE CALENDAR WWW.PIEDMONTVIRGINIAN.COM

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 25

HERE ‘N’ THERE

Holiday Happennings ALBEMARLE CHARLOTTESVILLE SYMPHONY AND THE UVA UNIVERSITY SINGERS – FAMILY HOLIDAY CONCERT. Dec. 6, 8 p.m. and Dec. 7, 3:30 p.m. A community tradition that sparkles with cherished carols and wintertime favorites. Old Cabell Hall on the Grounds of the University of Virginia. For tickets: 434-924-3376 or www.artsboxoffice.virginia. edu. For general information about the Charlottesville Symphony: wwwcvillesymphony.org

CLARKE HOLIDAYS AT LONG BRANCH PLANTATION Historic Ornament Workshop. Dec. 6, 1 - 4 p.m. Get into the holiday spirit and create historic ornaments while sitting in our stunning historic home! Light holiday refreshments and treats will be served. Long Branch Plantation Christmas Weekend. Dec. 21 - 22, 1 - 5 p.m. Tours, historic-themed decorations, and educational holiday programs. Long Branch Plantation. 830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood. 540-837-1856. www.visitlongbranch.org

CULPEPER CULPEPER DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE. Nov. 23, 12 - 5 p.m. Community Tree Lighting 5:30 p.m. The joyous spirit of the Holidays is alive in Downtown Culpeper, where the shops and eateries welcome you with warmth and hospitality. Carriage rides, trolley rides, Santa, live music, carols, tree lighting, and so much more. Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. 540-825-4416. www.culpeperdowntown.com

FAUQUIER OLD TOWN WARRENTON'S GUM DROP SQUARE AND SANTA'S SECRET SHOP. Weekends, Dec. 5 - 21. Everything you could want in an old town Christmas! Christmas Parade with the arrival of Santa opening the season, the lighting of the Old Town Christmas tree, holiday music, live nativity, dance performances, hot cocoa, food, and horse drawn hayrides. Let the little ones do their Christmas shopping by themselves at Gum Drop Square, where each gift is $2 and there are friendly local volunteer youth "elves" to help them with selection and wrapping. Christmas in Warrenton is listed as a top 20 event in the Southeast. Check website for days/hours of all events. John Barton Payne Building, 2 Courthouse Square, Warrenton. 540-349-8606. www.partnershipforwarrenton.org/events SANTA'S VILLAGE CRAFT FAIR AT FAUQUIER HIGH SCHOOL. Nov. 22. Large craft fair with original works: toys, woodcraft and carving, pottery, dolls, needlecrafts, candles, jewelry, art and much more! Seasonal music, festive foods, and children's craft corner enhance this festive occasion. Fauquier High School, 705 Waterloo Road, Warrenton. 540-270-5434. Marsha Melkonian, marshamelk@hotmail.com “MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET.” Dec. 5 - 21, 26 16 THE THE PIEDMONT PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN VIRGINIAN

Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m. Dreams do come true if you really believe! A performance of the classic Christmas tale. Fauquier Community Theatre, 4225 Aiken Dr., Warrenton. 540-349-8760. fctstage.org HOLIDAY EVENTS AT SKY MEADOWS STATE PARK. Nov. 28 - Dec. 31. Kick-off event Nov. 28, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy a tour of the Historic Area featuring holiday traditions from bygone eras. The Yule Log is burning and festive holiday fare is cooking on the hearth. Warm yourself by the woodstove in the Carriage Barn and enjoy festive music. There will be holiday crafts for children. Most events are held on multiple days. Please check website for dates, times, and details. Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, 540-592-3556. http://www.dcr. virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows.shtml#general_ information

FREDERICKSBURG HOLIDAY EVENTS AT OLD TOWNE CARRIAGES IN FREDERICKSBURG. MidNovember through New Year's Eve. Jingle Bell Carriage Rides in old-time horse-drawn carriages. See the decorated store windows on Caroline St., Kenmore Plantation, and Fredericksburg's Christmas Tree. Enjoy Christmas music and holiday stories. Check website for dates and times. Fredericksburg Visitor Center, 706 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg. www.oldetownecarriages.com “IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.” Nov. 22 - Jan. 4. Based on Frank Capra’s beloved and timeless movie, this joyful musical adaptation is filled with memorable songs and Norman Rockwell moments that evoke the nostalgia of small-town life in 1940s America. Riverside Dinner Theater, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg. www.riversidedt.com MERRY MARKET. Nov. 22, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Nov. 23, 12 - 4 p.m. A boutique shopping experience featuring of a variety of unique and one-of-a-kind artisans and vendors who are carefully selected to ensure a fun holiday atmosphere. JINGLE BELL COCKTAIL. Nov. 21, 7 - 11 p.m. Ladies night out! This preview party of Merry Market features an exclusive first look at the artisans and vendors. Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeurves and fabulous shopping! The Olde Silk Mill, 1707 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg. www.faserviceleague.com/events

LOUDOUN HOLIDAY EVENTS AT OATLANDS Christmas at Oatlands. Nov. 16 - Dec. 30. Each room of the 1804 Oatlands mansion is sparkling with unique decorations. This year’s Christmas celebration focuses on “Christmas in the 1940s.” Candlelight tours also available on seslected evenings. Christmas Theatre at Oatlands. Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 20-21, 5:30 p.m. StageCoach Theatre Company will present “The Gingerbread Chase,” in the historic Carriage House. Visit www.stagecoachtc.com for tickets and additional information.

AUTUMN AUTUMN 2014 2013

Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg. 703-777-3174. www.oatlands.org HOLIDAYS AT FRANKLIN PARK ARTS CENTER. A Celtic Christmas with Iona. Dec. 6, 8 p.m. Celebrate winter with wassailing songs, ancient carols and village dances. Main Street Theater presents: “All Snowed In on Main Street.” Dec. 20, 7 p.m. Music and laughter for the whole family. Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. 540-338-7973. www.franklinparkartscenter.org HOLIDAY EVENTS AT PATOWMACK FARM Cookie Decorating Class. Dec. 6. Half of the proceeds are donated to a local charity. Such fun to be had by all; make this a family affair! Come decorate cookies to take home and enjoy. Annual Cookie Exchange. Dec. 14, 3 p.m. Bring three dozen cookies and a non-perishable donation for a local charity. Hot chocolate and hot apple cider provided. The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm. 42461 Lovettsville Road, Lovettsville. 540-822-9017 Info@ patowmackfarm.com. www.patowmackfarm.com CHRISTMAS IN MIDDLEBURG. Dec. 6. Breakfast with Santa at 8:30 a.m., The Middleburg Hunt at 11 a.m., the Middleburg Christmas Parade at 2 p.m. The Christmas in Middleburg Craft Show will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Middleburg Community Center. A juried selection of artists will have handmade and original designs for purchase. Visit www.ChristmasinMiddleburg.org HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS AT BLANDY STATION. Dec. 6-7, 9:30 a.m - 12 p.m and 1:30 - 4 p.m. both days. Join friends in creating a traditional evergreen wreath made from fresh local greens and adornments. Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce. 540-837-1758, ext. 224. www.blandy.virginia.edu NUTCRACKER TEA. Dec. 13. Presented by the Loudoun County Ballet Company Enjoy an enchanting afternoon with your family and costumed characters from The Nutcracker at a tea party complete with tea sandwiches, scones, hot chocolate, and teas. Excerpts from the upcoming Nutcracker production will be performed. Salamander Resort, 5 Pendleton Street, Middleburg. 800-651-0721. www.salamanderresort.com

MADISON MADISON HOLIDAY CELEBRATION. Dec. 5. Madison Tree Lighting Celebration and Parade. Madison Chamber of Commerce, 540-948-4455. www.madison-va.com

ORANGE THE MARKET AT GRELEN IS YOUR HOLIDAY HEADQUARTERS. Check our website for our wreath making and fairy garden workshops,

holiday brunches and Santa visits. The Market at Grelen, 15091 Yager Road, Somerset. 540-672-7268. www.themarketatgrelen.com HOLIDAY EVENTS AT THOMAS JEFFERSON'S MONTICELLO. Wreath Workshops. Nov. 28 - Dec 2. Learn to create a beautiful holiday wreath. All materials will be provided, including a cornucopia of natural materials. Holiday Open House. Nov. 30, 3 - 5 p.m. Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season! Be among the first to see Monticello decorated for the holidays as you stroll through the first floor of the house at your own pace. Handmade for the Holidays at The Shop at Monticello. Dec. 6, 12 - 4 p.m. Your holiday destination for one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts this season. Meet artisans, sample holiday treats, and shop for gifts made in Virginia. Craft demonstrations, beeswax candle making, and more. Monticello Gingerbread House Family Workshop Dec. 6-14. Escape the hustle and bustle of the outside world, and enjoy special family time during this two-hour workshop. Hot cider and cookies provided. Ages 7 and up. Check website for dates and times. Advance reservations required.

PRINCE WILLIAM HOLIDAY EVENTS IN OLD TOWN MANASSAS. Dec. 5 - 6 Merry Old Town: Christmas Tree Lighting. Dec. 5, 5:30 – 8 p.m. The holiday fun begins with holiday music and Santa's arrival at the Manassas Depot. Manassas Museum Lawn, 9101 Prince William St. The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be at 6:30 at the Manassas Museum. Take a free hayride around Old Town and go for a skate at the Harris Pavilion ice rink. Of course, Santa will hear the Christmas wishes of all the children at the Harris Pavilion gazebo. Merry Old Town: 69th Annual Greater Manassas Christmas Parade, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Please visit www.gmchristmasparade.org for details, including parade route. www.visitmanassas.org HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES AT THE HYLTON CENTER. Capital Jazz Preservation. 3rd Annual Swing Machine Big Band Christmas Extravaganza. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Join the Swing Machine Big Band in welcoming in the holiday season…big band style! Christmas in New York: Angela Knight Ministries. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Angela Knight Ministries joins with Azalea Charities to benefit the Wounded Warrior program. AKM's annual holiday extravaganza will bring into the season with joy and laughter. American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops, Songs of the Season. Dec. 12, 8 p.m. make the holidays merry and bright with an evening of musical holiday cheer. A festive concert of cherished Christmas carols, holiday favorites, guest soloists, and the popular audience sing-along. Manassas Chorale: Joyful and Triumphant. Dec. 13, 5 p.m. You’ll experience the best songs and carols of the season as the Chorale presents its annual Candlelight Concert Hylton Performing Arts Center. 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. www.hyltoncenter.org 1860S HOLIDAYS AT LIBERIA PLANTATION. Dec. 13, 5:30 - 8 p.m. Experience Christmas as it was celebrated by the Weir family and their slaves in 1860, and later as soldiers occupied the area during the Civil War. Enjoy candlelight, music, and refreshments at the 1825 house that hosted both

Confederate and Union forces during the Civil War and was visited by President Lincoln. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-368-1873. www.manassasmuseum.org

RAPPAHANNOCK HOLIDAY CELEBRATION WITH BEN JONES. Dec. 13, 7 p.m. A holiday celebration with Ben Jones and Cooter’s Garage Band, featuring Lisa Meadows. Music to welcome the holiday spirit. The Theatre at Washington, 291 Gay St., Washington. 540-675-1253. www.theatre-washington-va.com CHRISTMAS IN LITTLE WASHINGTON. Dec. 7, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. An Artisans Market featuring over 30 local artists, craftspeople, specialty food and wine vendors. Christmas Parade (1-2 p.m.) and gifts for children from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Stop by the Rappahannock Historical Society Museum for a glimpse into the history of our beautiful county. Washington, VA. www.town.washington.va.us LAST NIGHT IN LITTLE WASHINGTON. Dec. 31, 2014 SANTA VISITS GRAY GHOST. Dec. 14, 1 - 4 p.m. Children of all ages are invited to bring their wish lists to share with Santa. Free gift for each child. GRAY GHOST'S CHRISTMAS CORK AND CHEESE CELEBRATION Dec. 6 -7, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. View the world's largest cork Christmas display containing decorations crafted out of over 90,000 corks. While experiencing the winter wonderland and listening to live holiday music, sample Gray Ghost's award-winning wine with local and regional artisan cheeses. Gray Ghost Vineyards, 14706 Lee Highway, Amissville. 540-937-4869. grayghostvineyards.com

If you believe that it’s not Christmas without a performance of

the Nutcracker... Moscow Ballet: The Great Russian Nutcracker. Dec. 7, 12 p.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m. Forty world-class Russian artists present the Christmas classic. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Charlottesville, 434-979-1333. www.theparamount.net Charlottesville Ballet’s The Nutcracker Suite. Dec. 13, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 14, 4 p.m. Class with Clara events held 90 minutes before matinee performances. Culpeper State Theater, 305 S. Main St., Culpeper. 540-829-0292. www.culpepertheatre.org Piedmont Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Concert: Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with the Fairfax Ballet Academy. Dec. 6, 7 p.m. and Dec. 7, 3 p.m. Highland Center for the Arts, 597 Broadview Avenue, Warrenton. www.piedmontsymphony.org Loudoun Ballet Company’s Nutcracker. Dec. 19-21, times TBA. The 25th annual full-length professional production of The Nutcracker. Always receiving rave reviews and performing to sold-out audiences, this is the one time of year LBC accords young local dancers the opportunity to audition for roles. Freedom High School, 25450 Riding Center Drive, South Riding. www.loudounballet.org Gainesville Ballet: The Nutcracker. Nov. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Featuring New York City Principal Dancers Theresa Reichlen and Ask laCour alongside the Gainesville Ballet’s professional company and students of the school. Hylton Performing Arts Center. 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. www.hyltoncenter.org Northern Virginia Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker. Nov. 29, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Featuring stars of American Ballet Theatre as well as the talented dancers of Northern Virginia Youth Ballet. Merchant Hall, Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. www.hyltoncenter.org Asaph Dance: Clara’s Christmas. Dec. 7, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. A unique and poignant interpretation of the traditional “Nutcracker” and the beautiful choreography to Handel’s timeless “Messiah.” Merchant Hall, Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. 703-993-7550. www.hyltoncenter.org Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker. Dec. 19 - 23. See website for times. Featuring the professional company dancers alongside an ensemble cast with the Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra performing the classic Tchaikovsky score. Manassas Ballet Theatre. 9004 Mathis Avenue, Manassas. 703-257-1811. ww.manassasballet.org THE THE PIEDMONT PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN AUTUMN 2014 27 2013 26

POETRY OF PLACE

Standing Proud There are times when you drive a square peg into a round hole, as a trunnel fastens post to beam, but today it’s round into round, and when I’m done, the pine panel will hold fast to the frame for a lifetime or more. I touch the protruding head with a calloused thumb, finding it stands just a little proud. With a scrap of sandpaper I smooth it and touch again, all the time thinking of Dad’s words as we sawed and hammered at something long-forgotten: “It’s the proud nail that gets driven down.” Another lesson from that country poet that even now shapes what goes upon this page: words that as I trim and sand these lines remind me that brilliant phrases are given us, that what I leave behind is more debt than gift.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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A warm summer day and the downhill run From Staunton home, and there he stood in Highland array at the overlook, bag full and chanter to his lips. A private moment, it seemed, else we would have stopped to listen, perhaps to chat if he had a mind to. But he was intent on his piping, facing east across the valley— piping, one might think, to immigrant family who settled these hills, tracing in his mind an unseen path from a lowland port westward among the glens and across these icy streams. A mountain people before they came, born in rocky crags stretching beneath the sea to these selfsame Appalachian hills— now home in ways they knew and didn’t know. And what of this does the piper ken? Does he pipe back two hundred years to an ancestor Barclay or Black, McLean or McIntosh, who built here and farmed the land below? Or does something stir deeper in his blood tying him to another place and time, and so he stands today on a new Afton far, far this side of home, oblivious to the interstate and growl of traffic and curious stares, as alone as a man can be heart-deep among his kin, piping to a distant land?

PHOTO BY JORDAN KOEPKE; TARTAN COURTESY OF THE SCOTI, WARRENTON

David Black of Louisa is a retired English teacher and minister. A former poetry editor of the national periodical English Journal, he is the author of two collections of his own work, Some Task, Long Forgotten and Other Poems and The Clown in the Tent.

Afton Mountain Piper

Palinopsia She tiptoed barefoot in the snow to unwrap the dog from the apple tree. Her steps were quiet on the bright blanketed ground. His barks were not. The apples at the top had frozen and dropped. He ignored them. There were so many. She glanced down. The fruit jumped in her eyes, stayed and danced when she looked up. She circled the tree thrice, a smooth colgada, to unwind the dog then sprinted on the balls of her fast freezing feet to the back door and into the kitchen. The ocular jubilee vanished the second she sat down at the table. It wasn’t a full minute before the barking resumed.

Piedmont He had been tracking her for months, swept the snow behind him as he followed walking backward with hope brushing away the depth that would give him away.

He saw her in the remnant of each step.

He looked over his shoulder up the trail between the cedars so stunted by the hardpack of land once forest, farm, battlefield, orchard, soil deep with schist and sleeping seed

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Thanksgiving Day The shrike got the shrew hooked it with its beak, impaled it on a fence barb with a sharp slam. Unassuming butcher bird unbloodied underbelly a clueless crime excused by instinct. Grey wings spread and flew fast away left its prey hanging limp on the edge of the gleaned garden stuck and dying for dinner.

whisking away the prints.

The highway on one side now always runs, a marsh on the other sometimes murmurs when it rains and when these swept footprints melt apple seed to arsenic, rock to radon, battlefield to remembered bruise.

Blandy Community Garden:

At the base of some mountains he seeks Virginia.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Krista Genevieve Farris writes on a variety of topics. Her most recent work can be found in The Rain, Party & Disaster Society and Tribeca Poetry Review 2014. Her poems have been included in past issues of the Albion Review and Haight Ashbury Literary Magazine. She was born in Michigan and grew up in South Central Indiana. Sixteen years ago, she and her husband drove through Virginia on their honeymoon and decided to settle down in Winchester. They have put down roots and enjoy these stomping grounds with their three sons.

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 29

GARDENING

Bob, the Garden Cat By Hardie Newton

ob, the garden cat is relentless in his search for moles and voles. Busy with cavernous digs wherever a raised tunnel suggests the presence of vulnerable prey, he works diligently and is often unable to be on time for dinner. Late though he is, the habit is to deliver a victim, blessedly unconscious, to the kitchen doorstep. Protecting his image as fearless defender of the domain or simply wired from birth to be the great hunter, he has surely earned the title he proudly wears. Admittedly, the supply of creatures can at times exceed his dedication to a duty he executes with avid tenacity. Of a morning, one is able to find a crisscross of newly constructed submerged highways squarely in the middle of mulched pathways. At such times, knowing that we all tend to have tight schedules, I aid and abet his eradication policies. Bubble gum. Preparations for the task are threefold. Supplies include: 1. Several packages of Hubba Bubba Max bubble gum. 2. One box of plastic surgeon’s gloves. 3. Lengthy screwdriver. Process: wash hands thoroughly, put on plastic gloves, wash the business end of the screwdriver with Dawn, tear open a corner of the bubble gum packet, proceed to the battleground, gently insert screw driver into the raised tunnel, carefully make a hole large enough to accommodate a piece of gum, carefully (again), drop one square of gum (holding it through its thin wrapping paper) into the hole, cover the hole, proceed about two feet to your next stop, continue until you run out of gum, time, patience or belief in your work. The process being unkind, one hopes animal rights people will look on these endeavors with understanding. It eradicates without poisons and allows gardeners to enjoy the fruits of their labors, flowers and vegetables. Earning enduring respect and gratitude from Bob the cat is worthwhile. Secondarily it enables him to maintain a less demanding MO (mode of operation). With added leisure, he allows several hours for posing on the garden bench, a great way to watch butterflies. Or,

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sitting in the urn at the corner of the house munching such digestives as ribbon grass, which offers a lofty vantage point for viewing lizards and snakes simultaneously, depending on the time of day. There is no question as to Bob’s whereabouts during his quiet moments because resident Cardinal issues bring up to date bulletins regarding geographical locations. Noticeably, Bob spends no time down beyond the house at the round garden, the space probably in its twentieth faithful year of producing perennials and annuals. Perennials such as balloon flowers, fall asters, goldenrod, early phlox and peonies support the timely, though seemingly sudden July appearance of the bulb flower, Naked-Lady (Belladonna L.). These are groupings of amaryllis family pink lilies growing atop lengthy stems whose “springtime only” leaves have disappeared. A menu of annuals combines white marigolds, zinnias, cockscomb, snow on the mountain and sunflowers clustered at the base of a rock pedestal, atop which sits a decrepit cement birdbath. I call it “The Folly,” having given it a Victorian look reminiscent of garden ruins by adding a veneer of small stones. Filled with soil and a planting of Stonecrop Sedums that spill gracefully over its edges, the structure now leads a purposeful existence by allowing a moment’s rest for the eyes as they travel through the jumbles of color. Acting as deterrents to underground agents, jonquils and daffodils free range through the adjacent grassy areas. Moles and voles keep their distance. After all, Alexander the Great and his troops carried these poison bulbs in their saddlebags to quickly down in an emergency, thus avoiding capture by enemy forces. Wisdom passed down through the ages. Thoughtful rumblings. The round garden. Reordering the aforementioned space is a reasonable solution for cutting back on chores. Why wander so far to water or pull weeds? There are those of us who obey a doctrine “see a weed, pull it!” Of course, plenty of volunteers closer at hand will step into the void aiding and abetting such an addiction. Overly abundant peonies need dividing, resident roses beg for a sunnier location, extra hydrangea blooms would be welcome, especially considering the availability of new hybrids on the market. The addition of small leafed groundcovers has a spirited way of completing garden spaces. Fewer weeds, less water. In any case, it is my opinion that the

ubiquitous commercial mulch now available at your neighborhood garden center, available in ever increasingly tasteless colors, succeeds in ruining the effect of a purposeful dedication to creating beauty, perfect reason for the groundcover. “Coral Charm,” a semi-double early blooming peony, is much in demand for weddings and known for being a habitual show off in oriental type flower arrangements. Its delicate peach-pink hue performs eye-catching miracles used in giant compositions as well as in singular statements. Gatherings of these elegant plants amassed in a garden corner never fail to elicit reverence. Longevity, however, is not “Coral Charm’s” middle name and her bloom time seems entirely too short. Later blooming and at the opposite end of the attention getting spectrum is “Sword Dance,” a Japanese peony. Its coloration is embarrassingly purple-red, a design unto itself, preferring to monopolize the entire scene. Flamboyant, glowing yellow “afros” center the petals. Arriving well after “Coral Charm,” it excels at having its own dramatic center stage moment! The former personifies a quiet dignity found in elegant drawing rooms, the latter behaves as its name implies. The soon to be reinvented space, being on a gentle slope, naturally creates a more moist environment at its lower end terminating at a narrow stone wall and creating a perfect location for transplanted roses. We know they thrive with deep watering. Gifts from my horticulturist son in Texas, these bushes are particularly precious and personify the glories of old garden roses. Rosarians designate that all classes of roses grown before 1867 are termed heirloom. The specimen described here are descendants of ones discovered in abandoned churchyards and cemeteries and around deserted houses. We hear them called found roses. They could be root roses (ones grown from leaf cuttings, resulting in being impervious to viruses and able to regenerate from their own roots.) Alternatively, it is possible that they are grafted results of antique (heirloom) roses bred with modern ones, a process of exploiting the best qualities of each. My two are “Sweet Frances” and “Star of the Republic.” Both have color tones that register in the apricot-peach range, are considered shrub roses, can grow to six feet or more and are repeat bloomers! Their fragrance is intoxicating and the label claims that “Star of the Republic” can also be trained as a pillar rose.

New varieties of hydrangeas are everywhere. A particularly compelling one introduced by Michael A. Dirr (well known Georgia plants man) is “Amethyst.” An Oakleaf Hydrangea variety whose blossoms graduate from creamy white to red-purple while it ages on the bush. Be sure to wait until the little florets feel crisp to the touch before cutting! “Amethyst” coloration suggests it as a dried choice for Christmas flower designs and wreath trimmings. Suitable for smaller spaces than our native Oakleaf Hydrangea demand are the German hybrids, of compact size but having impressively large blooms. It appears that the use of growth regulators is prohibited in European plant breeding, a reasonable explanation as to why we have had so many “tight and full” hydrangeas in the import market lately. One of these dramatic reds still sits on my porch, disconsolately root bound in its plastic pot, unemployed since Easter. Yearning for better times, it will move into its new home in the fall. For the record, these Germans hydrangeas are known as “The Cityline Series.” Realizing that the main plant choices for rehabilitating the old bed express as predominantly round in shape, it is obvious that strong verticals need to be added. Exclamation points if you will, to energize the area. The stone folly remains a sentinel at the center but in its stolid self there is no movement. Liveliness in the form of plant material is the answer. The breezes must have something through which to stir. Watch this space for a solution. In the meantime, I have struck up a bargain with Bob. He has volunteered to sit atop my garden ornament, “The Folly,” to personally monitor regeneration of a space loyal to us through the years, even though the hunting is not optimum.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Hardie Newton is nationally known for her intuitive relationship with flowers. Believing that gardening and flower arranging go hand in hand, she teaches flower design workshops at her Madison Co. home, lectures widely, provides a consulting service for gardeners and is the in-house designer for Airlie Center. Her book, “Celebration of Flowers,” was published in 1997.

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 31

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VIRGINIA’S DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY

BY MIKE SANTUCCI/VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY

Celebrating a Century of Conservation

The Conway River between Jim Ballard’s old and new forest property THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 33

“We know these forests are most at risk for conversion at the point of intergenerational transfer.”

The Epleys, Jim Ballard ....and the Next Generations

BY DOUG EPLEY

A view from the top of the Epley’s property

Conservation stories: The Epleys, Jim Ballard…and the Next Generations By Kit Johnston

irginia’s Department of Forestry (VDOF) turned 100 this year, a longevity few state agencies can claim. So, why, back in 1914, did the General Assembly and Governor Henry C. Stuart hire Virginia’s first state forester? What did they tell him to do? And have those basic duties changed for the VDOF over all these years? At the time, Virginia was plagued by devastating forest fires that consumed hundreds of thousands of acres each year, most due both to neglectful brush burning, which provided the spark, and vast tracts of abandoned cutover forestland, which provided the tinder. First State Forester Chapin 34 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

Jones was told to focus on prevention first, which he did, absent Smokey the Bear’s help, at least at the beginning. Later, thanks to seed funds from the U.S. Forest Service, Jones was able to hire private fire patrols to warn citizens of fire danger and to fight any fires they found. Jones then turned his attention to the abandoned, fallow, and eroding lands, founding the state’s first tree nursery for stock to replant these tracts and help develop improved forest management practices. Still a oneman band in 1917, Jones created private landowner assistance programs to encourage Virginia’s forest landowners to adopt such practices. The programs included advice on how to conserve forest tracts, particularly those needed

AUTUMN 2014

to protect key watershed sources. The basic duties given to Jones 100 years ago largely remain VDOF’s obligations today, with a few exceptions. In 2007, the VDOF formed its first-ever division devoted solely to conservation of private forestlands. In 2009, this division launched VDOF’s first conservation easement program to give private forest landowners who want to conserve their lands forever an option for doing so with a forestry division’s help. Since that time, many landowners have recognized this program as their preferred way to protect their land and their family's land from division and non-forest development forever. In just five short years, the VDOF has secured 101 such ease-

ments on more than 30,000 acres across the state, covering some 3,500 acres in the northern Piedmont alone. As the division’s Assistant Director Mike Santucci recently observed, “The purpose of our easement program — and its growth — are rooted (in Virginia’s forests).” Yet the program’s success in so few years seems grounded as well in the ease and dedication with which VDOF foresters approach their work, readily earning the trust of those they serve.

CABIN PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOUG AND NORMA EPLEY; BLACK BEAR BY MIKE BENDER/U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE; SAMPLINGS BY WITOLD KRASOWSKI/BIGSTOCK.COM

THE EPLEYS In 2009, Doug and Norma Epley became one of the first Virginia families to sign a VDOF easement on their 50 acres of forestland on a spur ridge just below Hazel Mountain in Rappahannock County. Back in 1965, when Doug’s Dad bought the land, it was still being farmed all the way to a shared boundary with the Shenandoah National Park. As a child, Doug loved the view up and wondered if he would ever build a home on that spot. When he and Norma inherited the land, the forest with American chestnut saplings and their fascination with black bears was important to them. These characteristics led them to the decision to protect the land under conservation easement to protect it from future development and conserve what they loved most. On this land and at their residence in Annandale, the Epleys raise honeybees. Here, they are often visited by black bear attracted to those bees (the hives are protected) and to a nearby pond. Into this bucolic and rustic setting, the Epleys often invite Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and search and rescue teams, to camp out just as Doug’s Dad did before them. Early on, the Epleys thought to make the land a tree farm and still have an old forest management plan for doing so. But then they saw that didn’t fit well with what they cared about most. A turning point came when the county asked why they weren’t logging. They sought guidance from Don Loock, the Rappahannock representative for the Piedmont Environmental Council at the time. He sent them to VDOF’s new easement program, where Santucci had been promoted as one of VDOF’s two conservation specialists. When she met Santucci, Norma “could see that VDOF might be a good fit because Mike was very detail-oriented from the start.” As VDOF staff explored the property’s history and discussed easement terms with the family, Norma Epley, a former legal secretary asked many questions, and the staff researched each one. When “we finally had a draft easement in hand, Mike would say things like ‘you might want to take a look at this paragraph.’ He wanted us to see what it meant,” she said. “In essence, with our cooperation and full knowledge, Mike and his team developed our easement. It is legally binding, and the property is protected, the land preserved. It is what we wanted. It is what our son, David, wanted,” Norma reflected. Retired from a long engineering career, Doug added he is particularly pleased by the restriction on building above a certain height on the property. “My Dad always wanted to preserve the skyline from here.”

A historical cabin on the Epleys’ property

Their fascination with the forest and the wildlife it supports, like black bears and chestnut saplings, inspired the Epleys to investigate ways to preserve the forests. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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JIM BALLARD

BY MIKE SANTUCCI/VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY

In 2012, retired submarine commander Jim Ballard placed a large, mixed hardwood tract in Madison County under easement with the VDOF and is ready to do the same again with yet another tract. Six years before, Santucci had drawn up a VDOF Stewardship Plan at Ballard’s request to guide him in managing the land. Ballard and his late first wife Eliza Jane worked that plan for a while then heard “about how to hold places like this long term.” So they went to a Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) seminar on conservation easements. Ballard wasn’t sold on the idea right away. In fact, for many years, Ballard thought long and hard about the impact of an easement on his land and how it might restrict his family’s future use of it, including their ability to exercise divisions. It might also limit the size and number of improvements they could make and require them to maintain a minimum amount of forested acreage. “Perpetuity is a long time, and I wasn’t sure I was ready to tie things up that long,” he said. Ballard had worked the land with devotion for many years, and it had responded well. He loved how its environment supported bears, turkey, deer, and other wildlife. He decided he would prefer for the land “not to get busted up” beyond his tenure. He also thought about water and how “someday, the highest and best use of part of my land might be a public water impoundment for the years we’re going to need it.” An easement wouldn’t block that. Thinking about who should hold the easement, Ballard knew he had choices, but he went with the VDOF. “Everyone I’d worked with there was top notch. I’d have been a fool to choose otherwise.” And now? “I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m satisfied we made a good contract,” he said.

Above: The entrance to Jim Ballard’s conservation-eased property Left: Jim on his tractor on his second tract of land placed into VDOF Easement, 6 years after the first.

Ballard’s two daughters were in agreement and had a hand in the easement terms. “This is the kind of family communication that makes for the successful intergenerational transfer of forestland so vital to the long term view of good forest management,” he said.

THE NEXT GENERATION

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This is an important challenge the VDOF’s Forest Conservation Division is trying to address. “Over a half million acres of forestland has been converted to non-forest uses since 1977,” Santucci noted in a recent interview, “and most of this loss is from family-owned forestland. We know these forests are most at risk for conversion at the point of intergenerational transfer.” “How forestland owners like Jim Ballard and the Epleys feel about their land, the options available to them, such as conservation easements, and the plans and decisions they make will go a long way in determining the viability and sustainability of Virginia’s forests for the next 100 years and beyond,” Santucci explained.

BY DOUG EPLEY

What will the next intergenerational transfer bring to our forests of the Piedmont?

Timber is the third largest sector in Virginia’s economy today, a $17 billion economic resource base according to the VDOF. More than 10 million acres of forest land in Virginia is held by family landowners, two thirds of which are 55 or older. As they look ahead, many landowners want to keep their land in the family, but according to a National Woodland Owners Survey, only three percent of this aging population has a plan in place for transferring their forestlands intact to their heirs.

HABITAT

Coyotes, Our Elusive Neighbors By Celia Vuocolo

or those of us old enough to remember when Looney Tunes ruled the afternoon cartoon television slot, the name Wile E. Coyote holds fond memories of a scrappy canine and his many failed attempts at catching the infamous and speedy Road Runner. To many children this was their first exposure to Canis latrans, who, next to the Gray Wolf, is North America’s other well-known and often misunderstood wild canine. While Wile E. Coyote is known to prowl about on the flat, long desert highways of the American West, our Eastern coyote here in Virginia inhabits a different kind of backdrop. Coyotes are found in almost every environment in our state: forests, fields, suburbs, and city alleys. They are a notoriously secretive and seldom seen species. If you do happen to see a coyote, it is most likely due to chance, illness (such as rabies, mange, canine distemper, etc.), or because the animal has become desensitized to humans, which is often the result of either intentional or unintentional feeding. The Eastern coyote is not native to Virginia and instead appeared sometime in the 1950s. The coyote moved right in to the top predator niche, which had been vacant since wolves were extirpated from Virginia sometime around the turn of the century. Once established, the coyote has done very well in Virginia. Prey abundance, human food sources (dumpsters, trash cans), diminished hunting and trapping pressure, and incredible versatility have increased the coyote population; and it shows no sign of slowing down.

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Coyotes are found in almost every environment in our state: forests, fields, suburbs, and city alleys. They are a notoriously secretive and seldom seen species

February. A coyote male and female form a pair bond and raise litters that are born sometime between late March and May. Unlike wolf packs, coyote family groups are tolerable of other lactating or gestating females and do not possess the same intense social hierarchy. Another key difference between coyotes and wolves are the two species’ responses to management. Wolves are sensitive to hunting or trapping pressure, and packs have been known to dissolve after the death of an alpha male or female. Coyotes, on the other hand, are very resilient to management. Research has shown that 75% of a given coyote popu-

BY LARRY LAMSA, CREATIVE COMMONS

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It might seem unusual to think of a top predator like the coyote living quietly in your neighborhood, but in reality our communities can provide this opportunistic creature with quite a few living perks. Our yards are often a source of year round food for coyotes, whether it be in the form of squirrels or voles, the garden (I hear they love watermelons), a garbage can, or birdfeeders. Coyotes do not specialize in hunting any one particular prey species, but instead take whatever meal they can get. While they are often considered hunters of small prey, they will take larger game or livestock if they are abundant and easily accessed within the coyote’s territory. Although coyotes share top dog status with wolves, their social structure and population abundance is very different. Coyotes mate in winter, usually around January and

lation would have to be removed before a decline in numbers is observed. The durability and adaptability of the eastern coyote can make it very challenging for managers looking to control populations in areas where this animal has become a nuisance species. So, what is a nuisance species? A nuisance species is typically defined as a species that causes adverse ecological and/or economic impacts. The Eastern coyote is classified as a nuisance species, so there is no defined hunting season for this animal and it can be hunted at any time. There are several counties in the state of Virginia where bounties on coyotes have been established. The coyote’s status as our top predator often causes clashes with humans, pets, livestock, and property. Coyote conflicts can be both real and perceived. Sometimes a coyote sighting alone can be perceived as a threat to children or pets. Coyotes generally avoid and fear humans, so a sighting does not necessarily constitute an immediate concern. The most common type of coyote conflict involves predation on pets, particularly small dogs and outside cats, and livestock. When attacks on dogs do occur, it is usually because the dog has been left unattended or is roaming freely during the spring and summer when a coyote is raising its young. Sometimes coyotes will attack bigger dogs during the mating season as a territorial response. Human attacks are exceptionally rare, and there are only a handful of cases actually recorded in the U.S. Most of these attacks were by rabid animals or were provoked when a human was near a den. Preventing conflicts with coyotes can be achieved in a few simple steps:

» Remove access to outside food sources. This could be as simple as purchasing a more secure garbage can, feeding your dog or cat inside, or removing unfinished pet food from your porch.

» Protect your dog and cat when they are outside. Do not leave your pets unattended in the backyard (this goes for children too!) or walk your dog without a leash.

» Contact VDACS or USDA Wildlife Services Virginia Cooperative Coyote Damage Control Program to get information about controlling coyote damage if you are experiencing issues with your livestock.

JEREMYVANDEL, CREATIVE COMMONS

Coyotes provide us with an important ecological service. As top predator, they help to control deer herds by predating on fawns and remove other competing predators like red fox, feral cats, raccoons, and skunks that are known nest predators of important songbird species. It has been found that nesting success of songbirds can actually increase in areas with coyote populations. Coyotes can be marveled or feared depending on their societal impacts.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Celia Vuocolo works as the sustainable habitat program assistant with the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC). She earned a Bachelors of Science in conservation and wildlife management from Delaware Valley College in 2011. When not working at the PEC, Celia enjoys working on her native garden at her home in Bristow and hiking with her dog Juno. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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FOOD AND WINE FROM GARDEN TO KITCHEN

with Carla Hogue and Rick Vergot

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PHOTOS BY CARLA HOGUE

s far as hobbies go, gardening has one gigantic drawback. Ricky puts it very succinctly—it’s a lot like work. In this, our fourth year, I decided to look at the pros and cons to see if this hobby is all it’s cracked up to be. I discovered that, on paper, it’s not. It’s hot and sweaty. It hurts your lower back, your shoulders, your knees, your right elbow (at least my right elbow). You’ve got your sunburn, your bug bites, your bruises, your blisters, and your splinters. Let’s not forget the heartaches which come daily, usually two and three at a time, like the squirrels, the deer, the bunnies, the Japanese beetles, the stink bugs, the hornworms, the powdery mildew, the early blight, the late blight, the wet weather, the dry weather, when the seeds don’t grow, when the weeds do. It’s expen-

sive, and it takes a lot of time. When I think about all the things I love about gardening, I mean really love, there are probably half a dozen. I like when the seed catalogs start crowding the mailbox on those bleak winter days with their promises of tiedyed snow cap beans and faded Armenian cucumbers. I like pushing the tiny magic seeds into the soil and looking every day until we spot one thin, green sprout. I like pulling the first three weeds and the last three weeds from a bed, but not the 259 weeds in between. I like the olfactory memories, how one whiff of a tomato vine transforms me into the 8-year-old version of myself, working with my Pap in his jungle of a garden. And of course, I like picking the harvest. Looking at my list, I’m half surprised there’s so much more to dislike about gardening. I get it— it’s creative, spiritual, cleansing, blah, blah, blah. Any gardener worth his weight in worm castings knows

there’s hardly 45 seconds left to reflect on these noble ideals once the day’s work is finally done. And then there’s Ricky, who manages to create, cleanse, and grow spiritually while he’s shoveling this or hauling that. His idea of relaxing after spending a Saturday in the garden is to mound potatoes. Or, I get this a lot, “Let’s just weed this box.” My rebuttals reference labor laws, heat stroke symptoms, and OSHA requirements, at which point, he revises his request. “Then sit with me while I weed.” Sit? Sit where? Our garden is designed for production not relaxation. When we sit, we do it on the lovely back porch. In the garden, I’m resigned to a 10” x 10” scrap of lumber perched on the corner of a raised bed. When I tire of keeping my seat balanced, I sink to the ground on a deconstructed cardboard box because sitting directly on the mulch is a one-way ticket to “tick town.” Any garden, whether lots of acres or a few

Hors d’Oeuvres in the Garden

Our second choice for snacking in the garden is Crazy Farmer Jeff ’s Kickin’ Chicken from Breezy Meadow Farm. It’s a chopped chicken with a zesty, spicy, vinegary flavor. Crackers and toast points work great, but baking a pizza crust (plain) makes it even more satisfying. You have lots of options here. Sometimes you just can’t beat a cold beer. We aren’t huge Chardonnay fans, but Ricky thinks those who like it would enjoy this pairing.

When you’re already tired from weeding and watering, the last thing you’ll have patience for is a multistep cooking project. Too complicated, and you run the risk of plopping down in the air condition, never making it back outside. So you can’t beat this for ease.

If you want a snack from the garden, hello cucumbers! Be aware this takes a little more time in the kitchen.

Cucumber Rolls

Cheese. We love goat cheese on rice crackers. Try the herbed Dutchman’s Creek Fresh Chevre from Georges Mill Farm in Lovettsville, VA. They sell it at the Farmers Market in Leesburg. Pair this with a fun sparkler. We like Cava Tarrida Brut, made with organic grapes. You can find it at MOM’s Organic Market. At the great price point, you’ll want to buy a couple bottles.

containers, can be the heart of a home. For us, it’s where we spend most of our free time together, where the dogs run wild, where the bees do their spastic honey dance, where we bring guests visiting for the first or the thirtieth time. So this year, I decided to make it our after hours hot spot. Most of what we needed for this transition was already in place. Garden art, check. There’s a sheet metal rooster, made partly from an old Corona sign, which we found at Really Great Finds in Lucketts, VA., and an original stone sculpture of the Good Samaritan. Wind chimes, check. It’s how we know our little black spirit dog is visiting us from heaven. Humor, check. We initiated a new tradition this summer, turning the gate post into a gallery of nick knacks representing friends who visit and places we’ve been. The general guideline is that the item should be small, weather resistant, and easy to nail. So far, the contributions range from a ceramic locust to a trout fishing card to a laminated picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe to a No Parking sign. We have keyrings from favorite inns, a penny we smashed on the railroad track, really just about anything can make it onto the post. I enjoy channeling the places and the people every time we open the gate. The only thing missing, then, was a place

to park my bones. We tried collapsible chairs, and while they beat the 10” x 10” scrap of lumber, they implied a fast getaway, not a long linger. We thought about a bench, a bench under an arbor, some stone stools, but nothing said “after hours in the garden” like two bright orange Adirondack chairs and a turquoise table. We bought ours from Mattingly’s in Aldie, VA, who specializes in Amish-made Lawn Furniture. Check. One last thing: Bug Spray. Like us, biting insects are particularly fond of our garden after hours. We have discovered a few local cottage industries formulating bug spray without DEET. Little Sugar Naturals (www.littlesugarnaturals.com) and Herban Avenues (www.chooseherbs.com) offer products that have worked for us. They can both be found at the Archwood Green Barns Farmers Market in The Plains As always, use caution when trying out unregulated body products. Now the garden is a place to sit down at the end of the day surrounded by all the spirits of the gardeners who came before us. A place to reflect on the miracles of seeds and friends. A place to ponder and plan while we sip something, snack on something, and remember why we chose gardening as our hobby.

with Creamy Avocado from pureella.com

Ingredients: 1 3 ½ 2 ¼ 1/8

large English cucumber (the seeds can be a factor otherwise) ripe avocados tsps. pink Himalayan salt or sea salt Freshly cracked black pepper TBSPS freshly squeezed lemon juice cup fresh, finely chopped parsley cup fresh, finely chopped dill

Directions:

1. Wash and dry cucumber, then use a mandolin to cut thin slices all the way through (long ways). 2. In a bowl, mush the avocado meat and add in remaining ingredients. Mix. 3. Lay out each cucumber slice and layer a coat of the avocado spread all the way across. Start to roll from one side until you reach the end. Be sure to have some avocado spread at the end to act like glue to seal them up. 4. You’ll want to eat them quick, because on warm days they don’t stand up well.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Carla Hogue teaches elementary special education, supports animal rescues, and likes to put seeds in the dirt. Rick Vergot sells building supplies, is a sucker for rescue dogs, and likes to design and build NASAinspired raised beds. Together they are learning about and practicing sustainable methods. This year, the squirrels whole-heartedly approved.

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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FOOD AND WINE

“What Do You Mean He Don’t Eat No Meat? That’s Okay, I make Lamb” By Brian Lichorowic

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Glossary

Let’s start with definitions (garnered from Foodnetwork.com) Lamb: A sheep less than 1 year old, known for its tender meat. Baby lamb and spring lamb are both milk fed. Baby lamb is customarily slaughtered between six and eight weeks old. Spring lamb is usually three to five months old; regular lamb is slaughtered under a year of age. Lamb between 12 and 24 months is called yearling; when older than two years, it’s referred to as mutton and has a much stronger flavor and less tender flesh. There are five USDA grades for lamb based on proportion of fat to lean. Beginning with the best, they are Prime, Choice, Good, Utility and Cull. When purchasing lamb, let color be the guide. In general, the darker the color, the older the animal. Baby lamb will be pale pink, while regular lamb is pinkish-red. Lamb can be purchased ground and in steaks, chops, and roasts. Lamb variety meats can also be purchased.

1988 POLAROID PHOTO OF JULIE CHILD BY ELSA DORFMAN VIA WIKIMEDIA

quote from a popular movie (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) says it all. Lamb—the most misunderstood red meat. Fans of culinaria understand that opinions on lamb never reside in a gray area – either you love it or you hate it. For those that love it, I mean really love it, it ignites a true passion, pride and heritage. It’s something that as the weather turns cold it gains in popularity. Lamb is the traditional dish of 15 million ethnic Americans – Muslims and Christians of all denominations, specifically the Irish and the Greeks. Spring lamb remained a mainstay on the Sunday menu and during holidays at my family’s inn, located in New York, when I was growing up. Set menu: roast pork, ham and lamb. Roast leg of lamb with gravy and vegetables. Finished and plated with this silly spiced apple and parsley garnish. We served ungodly amounts of it, plating over 1,200 dinners on an average Sunday, to busloads of hungry old ladies, one after another. They would eat everything on their plates and snag the sugar bowls and salt and pepper shakers with them on the way out. I guess it was a sign of epicureal satisfaction. Then we’d have the occasional rogue, “blue hair” swagger back into the kitchen with a 20-gallon shopping bag in hand asking nicely for the leftover leg bones for later. She’d snag another sugar bowl as she left the kitchen. Some cultures revere lamb the same way we do a large, succulent Maine lobster – as a primal treat only to be consumed at a time of celebration or when the urge hits and I’ve got a couple hundred bucks burning a hole in my pocket. Sometimes just spying the guy with the lobster tent at Gilberts Corner in the summer will do the trick!

LAMB THREE WAYS

The first I had in Bermuda a few years ago, the second from Julia and pulling up the rear (no pun intended) is the result of my misshapen mind.

Bermudian Holiday Rack of Lamb

Chef John Pritchard is an award winning chef, hailed from Toronto and a regular on The Food Network, at the newly opened 9 Beaches Resort in Bermuda. Chef John tells me that lamb is the standard holiday and very special occasion meal in Bermuda’s culture – even as much as their cod, potato and egg hash is on Sundays. In that vein, the rack of lamb is the king. He made this for me. I believe him. As most great chefs, John was adamant about presentation being key so I’m giving you this verbatim with plating instructions. (Remember, it’s bad luck not to cross the rib bones on the plate!)

Ingredients 18-20 oz. Rack of Lamb (New Zealand or U.S. raised, my preference) 2 Tbsps. of a good Dijon Mustard 2 Tbsps. Breadcrumbs in a small plate 1 tsp. Fresh Parsley, chopped 1 tsp. Fresh Rosemary, chopped 3 Baby Carrots 3 Baby Zucchini 3 Baby Yellow Squash 3 small Asparagus Spears 2 Tbsps. Butter 6 ozs. Mashed Potatoes (your own recipe) Salt and Pepper

Instructions

1. Prep: Season the lamb with salt and pepper. In a seasoned, hot, cast iron frying pan, sear both sides of the rack. Remove from heat. 2. In a small bowl add the mustard, parsley and rosemary, mix well and lather the rack with the mixture. Roll the rack in the breadcrumbs and return it to the pan. Place in 350-degree oven for 10-12 minutes. 3. Veggies: Blanch the carrots, zucchini, yellow squash and asparagus – 3 minutes tops. In a sauté pan add the butter and sauté the vegetables. 4. Plating: Place mashed potatoes in the center of a hot plate and arrange the mixed veggies around the mound. Split the rack and place on top of the potatoes so that the rib bones are crossed.

Navarin d’Agneau Printanier

(Lamb Stew with Spring Vegetables) I miss Julia. Her recipes, though classic like this one, inspire us. Recipes, when recited in French, also have a nice way of impressing the table. (It’s the little things!) Can be found in Julia Child’s cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Volume I. See Julia’s recipe on www.piedmontvirginian.com

Slow Cooked Rolled Mint and Garlic Leg Roast

This is an original, tried and true. Threw it together when I was 17 years old at Dibbles Inn in Vernon, New York. You’ll need to find a nice leg roast. You can purchase a deboned roast or do it yourself. Go here to learn; http:/www.recipes.co.nz. cookingtips.points8.html. This will save yourself a few bucks and with the leftover bones you can make a great stock for the gravy. The end result will be meat that tastes like it has been roasted in mint jelly. It’s unique and wonderful in texture. Using fresh herbs provides a better lather for the roll.

Ingredients 5 1/4 6 1/3

lbs. Roast Leg of Lamb cup Fresh Rosemary - about 3 good size sprigs cloves of fresh Garlic cup fresh Mint (Apple Mint if available) Olive Oil Salt and Pepper to taste Roasting String

Instructions 1. Rinse the herbs. In a pestle and mortar add the rosemary, garlic and mint. Pound and grind the mixture into a paste and add olive oil as needed. The goal here is to make a mixture with a paste consistency. In lieu of a pestle and mortar, you could use a bowl and spoon but be thorough and take your time. 2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Unroll the roast as flat and you can get it on a cutting board. If necessary, pound with the flat side of a meat tenderizer (a hammer or last year’s Prada shoe). Season with salt and pepper throughout. Generously lather the mixture onto the roast, rub it in well. 3. Roll the roast back together as tight as you can get it and tie it up with your roasting string. Re-lather up the roast on the outside forcing into every nook and cranny. Place in a shallow baking pan. Feel free to place some of your favorite veggies around the roast – potatoes, carrots and celery will work well. 4. Slow cooking is key here. The idea is to allow the meat to sweat a bit, allowing the herbs to cook “in”. The longer it roasts at low heat the more intense the mint and garlic will be. This dish goes well with any of the veggies mentioned in the above recipes. For medium tenderness, allow it to reach the internal temperature of 150-degree. Slice it 1/2” thick and plate it. You won’t need gravy. Dole out to your favorite “blue hair” and by all means, watch your sugar bowl. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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FOOD & WINE

‘Boots On and Wine Stained’ 8,000 vines off a back country road; vines that have yielded delicious grapes — despite the copperheads and a very hungry bear. By Kit Johnston

ou know those perfect Piedmont days when all you want is some good local wine and a beautiful view? If so, you’ll like Moss Vineyards, a fairly new and small Virginia farm winery 100 percent owned and operated by a husband and wife who grow their favorite varieties of grapes, make the wines they like most, and do nearly everything else short of bottling. As Barry Moss likes to say, he and Ellen are “boots on and wine stained.” While at Moss Vineyards in the upper reaches of Albemarle County, visitors can’t help but feel one with “God’s country.” A bonus is the quality of their wines. After only four harvests, the Moss’ seem to be making the most out of their property’s high elevation (1,000 feet), good slope line, advantageous soils, and location just inside Virginia’s most promising wine-grape growing AVA — the Monticello American Viticultural Area. Moss Vineyards sits just above Nortonsville. The only two routes are via 810 South

from Stanardsville or 810 North from Crozet. That’s okay because 810 is a true back country road — nothing more or less than miles of open land and mountain scenery, little traffic, and the opportunity to get lost. The vineyard itself is tucked away off 810, so when you reach Nortonsville, look sharp for a large sign just off road. Entering the vineyard compound a halfmile up a steep gravel drive is a delight, for

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you will be greeted by 8,000 vines trellising in all directions and the sight of the vineyard’s strikingly contemporary winery designed by Mr. Moss. Here, he makes all the vineyard’s wines from grapes grown on the estate or on leased land nearby. Spacious quarters above the winery serve as the couple’s home away from their Norfolk home. One day, they hope this will be their permanent home. When you park next to the tasting room, turn around for your first glimpse of the vineyard’s striking view. The peak looming before you is the 2,860-foot Loft Mountain, located in the Shenandoah National Park. It is so tall that it can split storm clouds in half. The mountain possibly protects the vineyard from too much rain — a bane in the life of any aspiring Virginia winemaker. An excess of rain invites vine rot in the summer and rain-soaked berries at harvest, both big challenges to quality fruit and wine. Many visitors to Moss Vineyards comment on the view. It is one reason why the couple bought this 52-acre property back when their now-grown sons were young.

COURTESY OF MOSS VINEYARDS

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Spectacular scenery and views await visitors to the 52-acre property.

The property’s steep slope line and decomposed granitic soils also sold them, for the soils have the potential to produce red wine grapes with intense flavor and color. With advice from such eminent Virginia winemakers as Gabriele Rausse and Luca Paschina, the family planted its first Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot vines in 2008, with other varietals to follow. Production yields in 2013 were low, but the grape quality was high, Mr. Moss said. There were many challenges that year, including early berry drop, a cicada invasion, and invasions by various hungry critters, including a bear. “When we spied a mother bear helping her cub over our fence, we vowed to build a higher one, and did,” Mr. Moss said. (On Labor Day that year, a copperhead bit him while he was unloading his truck at night. He nearly didn’t live to tell the tale.) In making wines, Moss takes cues from friend and mentor Luca Paschina at Barboursville Vineyards. What Mr. Moss strives for in his own favorite Bordeaux red varietal blends — the vineyard’s primary grapes— is to capture their “complexity and nuance… while following traditional European winemaking techniques.” With that, Moss and I headed to the tasting room to sample the vineyard’s two oldest Bordeaux red varietal blends and wines. (Please see accompanying boxes.)

FIRST PERSON

Tasting Moss

A Vet Wine Writer Samples a Vineyard’s Best

irst up, Moss’ 2010 Architettura Reserva built on Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals, most estate grown. I appreciated this wine’s boldness, structure, and balance. Moss also appreciates that first harvest, blending, and finishing effort but is more drawn to its 2012 counterpart as “smoother, easier, old earth.” All Moss reds are finished in French oak. Moss whites are finished in stainless steel. On the tasting menu at the time of my June visit: The estate-grown 2013 Viognier (one of the best I’ve yet to taste from Virginia); the 2013 Sangiovesebased Rose (thin but refreshing); the 2012 Cabernet Franc (nice bouquet, nice balance); the 2012 Vino Russo (a very pleasing, solidly structured blend of estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Merlot, as well as Cabernet Franc from leased land); and, last, the 2012 Architettura Reserva (nice, but needs bottle age). For sale but not on the normal tasting menu: the 2011 Viognier, the 2010/2011 Vino Rosso, and the 2010 Architecttura Reserva, at $62 per bottle. On occasion, the Moss’ invite Charlottesville-based musicians to the vineyard, including such notables as “The Anatomy of Frank.” But, Moss emphasized that “we want to stay focused on the wine.” And, very much in the Virginia farm winery tradition, “we want to stay small because we want to stay in balance with nature. We won’t extend the vineyard much, and the buildings are set. We want to remain friendly, slow-paced, and bucolic. That’s the point of a farm winery.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kit Johnston has been freelancing for a wide variety of publications on a wide variety of subjects for over 35 years. She has been writing about the Virginia wine industry and Virginia wines nearly that long. She lives in a restored farm house in Novum, Madison County, with her dog, Namaste.

About Moss Vineyards

Owners: Barry and Ellen Moss Hours of Operation: Fri., Sat., Sun., and holiday Mon., March through November Tasting fee: $6, including tax. Location: 1849 Simmons Gap Rd. (810), Nortonsville, VA 22935 Phone: 434-990-0111 Web: www.mossvineyards.net Member: The Appellation Trail, theappellationtrail.com THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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HERITAGE

Virginia’s Moonshiners Tales From the ‘Hollers’ By Kristie Kendall “Mama said, ‘A gallon jug of moonshine whiskey with rock candy in it always set on the mantle piece over the fireplace in the living room in the home where she was raised. ‘It was part of our way of life and everyone could use it at their own free will.’ I have heard her say many a time, ‘Where it came from, I don’t know, but one thing for sure, when the level dropped within a couple inches of the bottom of the jug, it would fill up again. It appeared we used very little of it, and many a time it seemed to do much good.’” — John W. Stoneberger, Memories of a Lewis Mountain Man, 1995.

BIGSTOCK.COM

ohn W. Stoneberger’s mother grew up on Lewis Mountain in Greene County within the hollows of what is now Shenandoah National Park. His grandfather, John Scott Roach was well-known for serving whiskey and brandy in his home, as it was one of his ways of being hospitable to neighbors and a servant of God. Historically throughout Virginia, people made and drank what is often referred to as “moonshine,” although the meaning behind the word has become muddled through the years. Due to popular culture and television shows like “Moonshiners,” the public’s understanding of moonshine production as a practice often differs from reality. The basic difference between a “moonshiner” and a legal distiller, is that the legal distiller chooses to licenses his operation and pay taxes on what he sells – the “moonshiner” chooses not to. Historically, the production of liquor has been taxed since the mid-1600s by the British government. In the early 1700s, the British government had an issue with people smuggling brandy on the coast of England and introduced the term “moonlighters” to refer to these individuals. Apparently the term stuck. The United States followed suit with an excise tax from 1791 to 1802. Following the first excise tax, the United States imposed a second one from 1813 to 1817 and in the midst of the Civil War, a high tax specifically on whiskey. By the 1880s, many people were distilling liquor throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains with licensed operations. But the temperance movement was gaining ground. By 1909, many counties in Virginia had banned both the sale and production of alcohol. When Prohibition was enforced nationwide in 1920, the market for true “moonshine” exploded. Following are reprints of newspaper articles from the Greene County Record, dating from 1922 to 1925. It paints a vivid picture of some residents’ reactions to the Prohibition movement in Virginia’s Piedmont.

Thursday, July 20, 1922

PAT SHIFLETT LOSES RACE IN ALBEMARLE Pat Shiflett, of Nimrod, Greene County, styled by local police as the King of Bootleggers, has at last been captured. He was taken into custody by Officers Creaver and Marsh of the local police force, after a sensational five-mile run on the new concrete road to Scottsville. Shiflett made strenuous efforts to escape after being hailed near the southern limits by the officers who saw him in the act of handling liquor containers. He sped away in a Ford car in the direction of Scottsville, with Officer Maurice Greaver hot on his trail. In the flight, Pat undertook to lighten ship by throwing our numerous half gallon jugs of new made liquor, and Officer Marsh got out to salvage the cargo, to be used as evidence against the Greene county flier. The officers, however, only secured four half-gallon jars, the balance of the jetsam being broken. Officer Greaver finished the chase at Gross’ five-mile post when he forced Shiflett to surrender by covering him with a pistol. On his surrendering he searched his person and found that he bore no arms and then ordered him to drive in front to the police station . . . Shiflett was turned over to the county authorities and a warrant charging him with transporting liquor contrary to the Mapp Act was served on him from the office of Justice Claude B. Yardly. He was admitted to bail in the sum of $500.

When Prohibition was enforced nationwide in 1920, the market for true “moonshine” exploded

Thursday, Sept. 18, 1924

CAPTURE BIG STILL BUT IT DISAPPEARS

Revenue Officers Smith, Alexander, and Fletcher, captured one of the largest outfits in Bacon Hollow, Friday, that was never destroyed in Greene — a 60 gallon still and about 2000 gallons of mash. The still had just been put into operation. They found four men engaged at the still, but only succeeded in making one arrest, George Newman Morris, George Frank Morris, and Grover Shiflett made their escape. Several shots were fired at them and from reports Grover was shot and badly wounded in making his escape. The 60 gallon still that was captured last week and put in the clerk’s office for safe keeping was taken out through one of the windows Monday night. The worm disappeared Sunday night. If the same party got both parts they have a complete outfit. The still had been slashed and would be easy to identify.

Thursday, May 10, 1923

BACON HOLLOW COMBED FOR STILL WITH RESULTS

Tuesday and Wednesday, Prohibition Agent Brown and 11 deputies combed Bacon Hollow for stills. They searched every suspected house and premises therein. They got eight stills, five gallons and a quart of sugar liquor, and swore out warrants for seven men - Alonzo Shiflett, Moses Morris, Miley Morris, John R. Shiflett, Walter Crawford and Ben Frazier and son - charging them with violating the prohibition law. Several of these men have already been arrested and admitted to bail. A quantity of mash was destroyed by the raiders. The stills and kindred equipment were brought to the county jail.

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Thursday, Jan. 12, 1923 PAT SHIFFLETT’S CASE … Judge John W. Fishburne, in the Circuit Court of Albemarle, next called for trial of the case Commonwealth against Pat Shiflett, indicted on a charge of having unlawfully transported intoxicating liquor in June last and the balance of the day was taken up in disposing of the same.

The case was hard fought from start to finish, Shiflett having employed a strong staff of attorneys in his behalf . . . The case went to the jury after 4 o’clock in the afternoon, every point raised on both sides having been covered by instructions from the Court and fully and ably argued by the astute and experienced counsel for the accused. But the verdict went against him, the jury finding guilty as charged and affixing the punishment of

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The defense offered evidence to show that Shiflett had nothing in his car when seen at points beyond the Creek, and even the Sheriff admitted that he was not sure he saw the box as he whizzed by. And the accused man also claimed that he had stopped his car where he was seen by the officers, because of engine trouble. But the jury seemed to be convinced that the liquor was being carried by Shiflett, and that he or his son, who was with him, had thrown it out and rendered the verdict accordingly. The jury on the case were Messrs. W.E. Sheperd, Andrew C. Brown, Ashby Adams, and A.M. Mays. After the verdict was returned, counsel for the convicted man made a motion to set it aside as being contrary to the law and evidence, and upon this being overruled by the Court, noted an appeal to the Supreme Court. A stay for the purpose of filing a petition for a new trial was then allowed to the first day of the February term and Shiflett was allowed to give bail until then in the sum of $2000 . . . Thursday, May 3, 1923 SHIFLETT CAUGHT AGAIN Following a tip that liquor was being delivered at a point near Rivanna post office, Sheriff J. M. Smith and Policemen O. M. Wood, and M. F. Greaver proceeded in that direction early Friday night. Without any difficulty the officers quickly came upon Pat Shiflett and son, Pat Jr., who were in an automobile which contained 8 gallons of liquor, and

in addition thereto, there was a single barrel shotgun loaded. Both Shifletts were brought here, where charges in two offenses were loaded against them, after they were placed in jail to await a hearing before Magistrate C. R. Yardley. Pat Shiflett has been a frequent violator of the prohibition laws, and is under sentence for several offenses now. Very recently the supreme court sustained two verdicts against him for fines of $500 and six months in jail, while a third one of $250 and three months in jail is pending before that court on appeal from the Corporation Court. Thursday, March 8, 1924 JURY IS DISCHARGED IN SHIFLETT CASE Failing to reach a verdict after being out three hours, the jury in the Rockingham County Circuit Court in Harrisonburg, Feb. 25, trying Dennis Shiflett, of near Elkton, on a felonious assault charge, was dismissed. The jury stood nine to three for acquittal from the first ballot. Shiflett was charged with assault on Deputy Sheriff W. E. Lucas, after his arrest May 18 last, for transporting liquor. En route from where he was captured in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Harrisonburg jail, Shiflett’s car plunged off the Shenandoah River Bridge at Elkton into the river 35 feet below. The prosecution contended that Shiflett, was allowed to drive his car deliberately steered his machine off the bridge in an attempt to escape. The defense claimed

LEFT: COURTESY OF SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK; RIGHT: 1909 PHOTO BY BAIN NEWS SERVICE VIA LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

The copper worm from a distilling operation in the Nicholson Hollow area of Madison County.

$250 fine and four months confinement in the county jail — the only sentence the liquor vendors dread. A large crowd was attracted to the Court to follow the proceedings and much interest was manifested in every move of the hard fought legal battle. The prosecution grew out of the sensational chase and arrest of Shiflett June 27, 1923, by Officer Maurice A. Greaver, after a race up the Scottsville road nearly to Carter’s Bridge. The officer had gone over to Moore’s Creek with officer J.C. Marsh after having received a tip at headquarters by phone message from Sheriff J. Mason Smith, that Pat Shiflett had passed him at a rapid rate, coming into town, adding that he might be bringing in liquor. When the officers spied Pat he was on the level stretch just beyond the bridge and when he spied them, he hopped into his car and got past Greaver, who attempted to head him, and turned up the new concrete road toward Scottsville. They made after him and when only a short distance on the new road, he spied a package by the wayside. On reaching the spot it proved to be a heavy paper carton all tied around with a good string, and containing four half gallon jars of regular bootleg liquor, some having been broken up. This was guarded by officer Marsh, while Greaver made chase after Shiflett in the police car and it proved a fast and furious ride for both while it lasted. But the officer at last got his man covered and gave up and came in.

Thursday, March 19, 1925

GREENE COUNTY COURT PROCEEDINGS

The Greene County Circuit Court convened at Stanardsville Monday morning at 10 a.m., Judge John W. Fishburne presiding: A special grand jury was soon selected and true bills were returned on the following charges of violation of the prohibition law: Commonwealth vs. Henry Lamb, for driving a car under the influence of ardent spirits. Commonwealth vs. John Iry (Todily) Shiflett, charged with possession of mash, etc. Commonwealth vs. Lester Morris for manufacturing ardent spirits. Commonwealth vs. Luke Shiflett for possession of ardent spirits. Commonwealth vs. Lewis Shiflett for manufacturing. Commonwealth vs. Charles Herring for manufacturing. Commonwealth vs. Horton Jarrell for transporting ardent spirits. Commonwealth vs. Fannnie Bickers for possession. Commonwealth vs. Nancy Shiflett for possession. Commonwealth vs. Rebecca Breeden for possession. Commonwealth vs. Henry Lucas, Jack Zetty, Fred Lawson, George Herring, Ernest Rogers, and Lester Shiflett for impersonating revenue officers. Commonwealth vs. George Frank Morris charge with unlawful cutting of Myrtle Morris

a faulty steering gear was responsible for the plunge. Deputy Sheriff Lucas appeared in the courtroom on crutches, not having fully recovered from the injuries he received in the plunge. Shiflett was rendered unconscious and was saved from drowning by the officer holding his head above the water for more than a half hour until rescuers arrived.

Thursday, Oct. 30, 1924 ALBEMARLE OFFICERS FIND LIQUOR PLANTS Sheriff J. Mason Smith and other officers, while engaged in a raid for discovering liquor Monday night, came upon a plant in an obscure place near Nortonsville, where they found 8 gallons of liquor and about 1000 gallons of mash on

land belonging to Ryas Morris. The operators were not found and their identity is unknown. Quite recently Deputy Sheriff Abbot Smith and Special Agent Plaugher, came upon two outfits in Turkeys Sag mountain, near Stoney Point. The operators made their escape, but one of the men has since been arrested.

All newspaper articles from this article came from the Greene County Record. They were taken from the Shifflett Family Genealogy website (http://www. shiflett-klein.com/shifletfamily/ index.html) and Larry Shifflett specifically combed for them. I would like to acknowledge the help of Larry Shifflett and the Shifflett Family Genealogy page as a source for the information in this article.

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BY KRISTIE KENDALL

Remnants of the Ballard Distillery, found along the Moormans River Road in the Sugar Hollow area of Albemarle County (Shenandoah National Park).

Courtrooms overflowed during the Prohibition period as millions of Americans were criminalized for participating in the liquor trade. In Franklin County alone, historians estimate that 99% of its residents participated in the illegal liquor trade in some fashion. In February 1933, Congress enabled states to choose to ratify the 21st amendment, and Virginia followed suit with their own legislation in October of that year. Instead of embracing the act, lawmakers quickly enacted laws to maximize the barriers between Americans and alcohol. The Commonwealth of Virginia voted to create the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board on March 7, 1934. Virginia granted ABC agents full police powers in 1936. Although firm numbers of alcohol consumption during Prohibition are unavailable, evidence suggests it did significantly

decrease. However, a comparison of pre and post-Prohibition consumption numbers show that drinking has only risen since Prohibition’s repeal. In 1919, consumption was estimated at 1.96 gallons annually per person and decreased to 0.97 gallons by 1934. Less than a decade later, it had increased to 1.56 gallons and by 1980, was at its all time highest, 2.76 gallons per person per year. Despite the noted increase in alcohol consumption, the liquor industry is much changed since the early twentieth century. Modern marketed “moonshine” (not technically moonshine since liquor requires licensing to be sold in Virginia ABC stores), is produced with very little grain compared to its early twentieth century counterpart that heavily relied on grain and fruit. Far fewer people are involved in the production of liquor today, than ever before. Despite

this, the number of illicit still and production investigations by the Virginia ABC is on the rise, from eight seizures in 2008 to 23 in 2012. The moonshine business, it appears, is still alive and well in Virginia, as it has always been.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kristie Kendall holds a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University in History and a Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation from the University of Maryland. She is a native Virginian and works for the Piedmont Environmental Council, where she focuses on land conservation and historic preservation issues.

The moonshine business, it appears, is still alive and well in Virginia, as it has always been. 50 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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Autumn in the Mosby Heritage Area! Cavaliers, Courage and Coffee Program:

The Haunted Turnpike.

Saturday, November 1, 7:30pm Aldie Mill, 39401 John Mosby Hwy, Aldie, VA. A series of unnerving sketches of the unexplainable, uncomfortable, and downright haunted events from Civil War Aldie and the Little River Turnpike. Tours led by lantern light by interpreters in period dress. Co-sponsored by NOVA Parks. Cavaliers, Courage and Coffee Program:

The Great Burning Raid.

Saturday, November 29, 2014, 7:30 pm. Silver Brook Farm Bed and Breakfast, 15286 Woodgrove Road, Purcellville. In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Great Burning Raid in Loudoun Valley by 5,000 Union cavalry ordered to burn out John Singleton Mosby and his command, MHAA’s Gray Ghost Interpretive Group will bring the events of November and December 1864 alive through intense sketches on location at historic Silver Brook Farm, just across the road from the Potts-Neer Mill ruins. Conversations in History Series:

1914 – Viewing the Great War from Northern Virginia

Sunday, November 9, 3:00pm, Mt. Zion Church, 40309 John Mosby Hwy, Aldie, VA. By Nat’l Park Ranger John King, who is the owner of one of the premier 1914-5 Great War material culture collections in northern Virginia. Co-sponsored by NOVA Parks.

The Aster Ball at Historic Rockburn.

Saturday, November 15, 6:00-8:00pm. Traditional dancing, including the Virginia Reel, will be led by the Shenandoah Valley Civil War Era Dancers and the Virginia Real Band. Cocktails served by Catoctin Creek Distilling Company and a Virginia feast will be served.

Reservations can be made online at www.mosbyheritagearea.org or by calling the Mosby Heritage Area Association at 540-687-6681

www.mosbyheritagearea.org • phone 540-687-6681 • Email: info@mosbyheritagearea.org

FOR THE THRILL OF IT

The Passion of Ballooning in the Blue Ridge A photo essay by Sara Whitestone 52 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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“It’s the unpredictability that is attractive,” Aaron said.

It was a chilly morning, with the sun just rising above the tree-line, turning the fields golden and silhouetting a naked balloon basket.

But Aaron and his fiancée, Kelly, weren’t looking at the fields or the basket. Instead their eyes followed a small black test balloon that had just been launched to see if the breeze was calm enough to fly. “Did you see how the wind hooked it?” Liana Haseltine said. She and her husband Jim are the owners of Blue Ridge Ballooning, a hot air balloon company based in Charlottesville. Seeing the worried faces of the young professional couple, Liana reassured them. “We’ll wait 15 more minutes and then send up another test balloon.” Along with Aaron and Kelly, there were two other hopeful passengers that morning. Betty, in her early 50s, was fulfilling a wish on her bucket list, and Beth, in her mid-60s was proving that she was “not too old to try something new.” But it was Kelly who was the most nervous. “I’m afraid of heights,” she admitted to the others. Kelly was putting on a good face for Aaron’s sake. The balloon flight was part of a wedding engagement celebration that he had planned for her as a surprise. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

AUTUMN 2014 53

The second small test balloon rose on a calm wind, and the pilot, Jim, gave the word to start. The passengers helped lay out the balloon canvas (called the envelope) and then held its open end so that the industrial fan could bulge the sack with air. With the envelope mostly inflated and the burner lit, the four passengers took their places in the basket alongside Jim. He pulled the blast valve, and the balloon slowly ascended. “Wish us luck!” Beth said from 20 feet in the air. “Take lots of pictures,” Liana called from the ground. But there was no need to remind Beth and her friend Betty to document their adventure. They were already working their cameras hard.

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For the next 45 minutes Liana car-chased the balloon over winding roads, sometimes glimpsing it above the tree-line, sometimes having to backtrack when she lost it from her sight, but always keeping in touch with Jim though their two-way radios. Liana arrived just after the balloon landed in a fallow corn field. Jim had gently tipped the basket, allowing the passengers to crawl out and onto their feet. “My bucket list has taken me on all kinds of rides,” Betty enthused. “I’ve flown in a helicopter and a hang glider, and I’ve even sky-dived. But this — this was the best. There’s no noise. You can see the deer down below and hear the birds . . .”

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“Yes,” Liana said, “People talk of a bird’s eye view, but this really is the only way you can get one.” “Floating over the forest . . .” Aaron whispered. “It was so peaceful,” Beth said, as if finishing Aaron’s thought. “Not scary at all.” Beth and Betty looked at Kelly, who had her arms wrapped around Aaron’s waist. “Not scary at all!” Kelly repeated, smiling. “It’s that unpredictability,” Aaron said, his arm on Kelly’s shoulder. “Yeah, maybe it was a little unnerving to start with, but we’re so glad we conquered this! The mystery of it brought us closer together as a couple.” “I know what you mean,” Liana said. “My father was a navy pilot who started ballooning as a hobby. And this was back when all it took to get a license was to come down safe again. But then he became an instructor. Even though I grew up in the sport, I still never get tired of it. It’s different every day.”

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“Right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains,” Jim said, “is the most beautiful place in the world to fly. Sure the Rocky Mountains are majestic, but they’re brown and well, just rocky. But the Blue Ridge . . . it’s colorful and wooded, and every season has its own beauty.” “Jim’s very focused — which is what you want a pilot to be,” Liana said. “So he doesn’t really get to enjoy the beauty as much as he wants to.” “But then, there’s that rare, perfect day,” Jim said, “when you are one with nature. And that’s what feeds the passion to fly.”

“People talk of a bird’s eye view, but this really is the only way you can get one.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sara Whitestone is a writer, photographer, and teacher. In exchange for instruction in English, her students at John Jay College in New York City introduce her to the mysteries of the world. And each time Whitestone teaches a Life Stories workshop, she is reminded of the metaphysical healing power of words. Whitestone’s own words have appeared in The Portland Review, Literary Traveler, and many others. Whitestone discovers writing through travel. Her current book-in-progress is a literary thriller set in Europe that is inspired by true events. Visit her website at sarawhitestone.com. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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READERS’ CHOICE

The Piedmont in Pictures Photo Contest Winners

2014

Pets

nd Grarize r P nne Wi

Classic Piedmont

Old Waterloo Bridge, Fauquier/Culpeper Counties Coy Ferrell

The Great Outdoors

Boundless Joy, Free Union Grace Elliff

Conservation and Farm Life

Hazel River, Rappahannock County Gary Anthes 60 THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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Dawn Surprise, Castleton Gary Anthes

Desserts SNAPSHOTS FROM THE END OF THE DAY

The Castleton Festival

BY LOGAN MOCK-BUNTING

2014 Opening Night

Opening of Madama Butterfly. The late Maestro Lorin Maazel is sitting in the front row.

Jim Gail, Lisa Barry, Barbara Wall, Chris Wall

Dietlinde Turban Maazel, Nancy Gustafson

Joan Tobin, Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae of Japan

Salamander Resort and Spa

BY MONA BOTWICK

A “Birthday Bubbles” first anniversary bash in Middleburg

Owner Sheila C. Johnson cuts the birthday cake

Pastry chef Jason Reaves puts on his finishing touches THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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DESSERTS

Book Talk by Author Mark Leepson “What So Proudly We Hailed: Francis Scott Key, A Life” Hosted by the Mosby Heritage Area Association

Tom and Gayle DeLashmutt and Childs Burden

Marc Leepson

BY DOUGLAS LEES

Janna Leepson and Sandra Markus

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Elaine Burden and Harriett Condon

AUTUMN 2014

DESSERTS

2014 Alltech FEI- World Equestrian Games (WEG) Preparatory Event at Great Meadow, July 26-27, 2014

TONY GIBSON PHOTOGRAPHY—22GATES.COM

Point leaders from the WEG prep trials, Phillip Dutton (center), Buck Davidson (right), and Hannah Sue Burnett (left).

Buck Davidson riding Ballynoe Castle RM, splashing through puddles, cross country event, placing second. Phillip Dutton riding Mighty Nice in the cross-country and show jumping events, winning first place.

Hannah Sue Barnett riding Harbour Pilot to third place in the final ranking for show jumping. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN

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LETTER FROM AMISSVILLE By Walter Nicklin

Rites of Autumn

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leaf peepers – have become perhaps the most obvious harbinger of autumn. The weekend traffic stretches bumper-to-bumper on Interstate 66 from Washington and Interstate 64 from Richmond heading west toward Skyline Drive. “The Leaf Brigade,” a lot of rural Piedmonters call them. Also changed from the changing of seasons past are the apples. There just aren’t as many as there used to be. Many of the Piedmont’s small family orchards have been abandoned or turned into other agricultural uses, not able to profitably compete with the scaled-up operations in other parts of the country. While there are still plenty of pumpkins hereabouts, we also now have something called Pumpkin Latte, the seasonal offering from Starbucks announcing autumn’s arrival. Also new are the brown marmorated stink bugs. Reports from around the Piedmont this year claim that the pests started seeking shelter to overwinter as early as the end of August. That their preferred shelter seems to be human shelter is only fitting, since we humans are the ones who introduced the invasive species to the United States in the first place, just a few years ago, via container ships from China apparently. That winter seems to start later and later each year, we can also blame on ourselves, specifically our carbon footprint. Yes, the Earth’s still spinning on its axis, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t keep turning the natural order of things on its head.

SKYLINE DRIVE BY STEVE COREY VIA FLICKR

fter a personal or professional setback of some kind, to put things in perspective, people will often say some variation of: “The sun came up this morning, and the Earth’s still spinning on its axis.” Things aren’t so bad after all, they’re saying, for the natural order of things is still in alignment. To be precise, that axis to which we’re all accustomed is at 23.4-degree tilt in orbit around the sun. That means that for half the year the Virginia Piedmont is inclined toward the sun, whose rays thus shine more directly; for the other part of the year, the Virginia Piedmont is tilted away from the sun, whose rays then are more oblique. As the sun “crosses” the equator around September 22 – the autumnal equinox – the natural world here in the Piedmont takes note and responds accordingly. Even those humans normally insulated from the natural cycle of things can’t help but notice, too. Growing up in Warrenton – then more of a village than the Washington metro suburb it is now – I quickly learned the signals of autumn’s arrival: school, football, apples, pumpkins, and colorful leaves. Yes, most indelibly, fall meant the turning and falling of the deciduous leaves. The poplars were the first to go, with their soft golden yellows; then the scarlet of the maples; holding out the longest, the browning of the oaks. Today, the leaves still change, of course, because the Earth’s still spinning on its axis around the sun! But instead of the leaves themselves, the people looking at them – the so-called

Arts in the Piedmont THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN’S ANNUAL GUIDE THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget......

Holiday

Gift Subscriptions www.piedmontvirginian.com

Welcome

“Aubergines”; 12” X 24”; oil/canvas

From Writing About Art to Making Art W

“Intersections”; 36” X 40”; oil/canvas

elcome The Piedmont Virginian’s annual guide to our region’s rich artistic community. In years past, Arts Editor Greg Huddleston was the mastermind behind this effort. But this spring, Greg decided to switch roles, moving from arts journalist to artist. Our loss has been the art community’s gain, as evidenced by Greg’s recent work, including the images on this page. You can see more of his work at greghuddlestonart.com and at the Color Wheel Gallery 65 in McLean. — Dennis Brack, Publisher THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Sketching the Since 1946, members of the Loudoun Sketch Club have been recording the scenes of serenity By Mary Champion

All Tuckered Out

Graphite, 8" x 11" by Robbyn Holmes

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Countryside

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Painting in the Shade

t’s Tuesday morning

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

BY MARY CHAMPION

somewhere in western Loudoun County as a steady stream of vehicles arrive at a privately owned historic property. Their occupants emerge armed with cameras, sunhats, easels, and sketchbooks.

They rapidly scatter over the property, seeking the perfect vantage point from which to paint or photograph. Some gather under large trees to paint a home built in the 18th century; others trek out to the farthest corners of the property, seeking a vista over bucolic fields with the iconic Blue Ridge mountains on the horizon. A temporary sign at the property entrance announces “Loudoun Sketch Club” (LSC), a group of painters, photographers, and sketch artists who share a love of the Virginia landscape and create art in the great outdoors. It’s a tradition that dates back seven decades. In 1944 three Loudoun County artists, Evelyn Marshall, Vinton Pickens, and Betty Tiffany, began to meet at each other’s homes to paint. Club archives tell us that while they were painting at Pickens’ Janelia Farm (now home to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute) Pickens’ husband remarked, “You’re a bunch of hot sketches, aren’t you?” The name stuck. The women exhibited under the name “The Hot Sketches” for a time, starting with a small exhibit at the 1945 Waterford Fair called “A Day with the Hot Sketches.” The Loudoun Sketch Club officially was formed September 10, 1946, at the instigation of Vinton Pickens. She was an artist, visionary and first chairman of the Loudoun Planning Commission, which was also formed with her urging in 1942. By 1947 the group had about 12 members, all by invitation. They held shows at Leesburg Baptist Church and the Leesburg Courthouse. By their third annual show they had changed their name to Loudoun Sketch Club, and continued to hold annual shows at a variety of venues. There was no show in 1957. Instead, eight club members painted a series of murals depicting historical scenes and events to celebrate the bicentennial of the founding of Loudoun County. These murals, now showing signs of age and water damage, still hang in the Loudoun County High School auditorium. Today the Loudoun Sketch Club has grown to 170 members, including a good number of men who are no doubt happily unaware of the club’s original name. Steve Huelsman, club treasurer for many years, remembers when the club had a mere ten members when he joined in 1980. He recalls the membership growing slowly and steadily over the years, with a plateau of around 95 members for the past six years. In 2014 the membership soared to over 170, with members signing up from all over Virginia as well as West Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. This spike in membership reflects the exploding popularity of plein air painting and the clubs higher visibility in the community. LSC members are young and old, hobby painters, professional artists, and beginners. Some have to schedule a day off work to participate in outdoor sessions; others are retired. They work in all types of media, with watercolor, oil, acrylic, and photography being the most common. Newcomers will find friendly, talented folks who love the Piedmont landscape and honor it in their paintings and photographs. Run by an all-volunteer board, the Sketch Club’s primary activity is outdoor painting sessions. These paint-outs are unstructured

except for start and end times; strictly 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. While not the ideal time of day for catching the effects of light on the landscape, this time constraint was necessary for the privacy of the hosts as well as the convenience of the volunteers. Once they arrive at the venue each member is on their own, free to explore, paint, or simply (as it often happens) sit and visit with other members while enjoying a beautiful setting. Some of the hardest working folks in the all-volunteer sketch club are the members who form the outdoor sessions committee. Usually comprised of long-time residents of the area, the outdoor committee seeks out private estates, farms, and historic property whose owners are willing to host members for two consecutive Tuesdays. They work out a calendar of venues from May through October, with directions, points of interest, and any special instructions such as, “don’t let the cows out.” As many members are unfamiliar with the winding and sometimes unpaved roads that lead to a location, each venue has a contact members can call if they get lost. While most of the venues are in Loudoun County, the group has also visited sites in Clarke and Fauquier counties. Members come from as far away as Alexandria, Springfield, and Gainesville to find inspiration from views that are unchanged after hundreds of years. The club values its relationship with hosts, and artists tread lightly on the property; no gates left open, no livestock harassed, and no trash left behind. They come and go at the the appointed times. Curious horses and friendly farm dogs often poke their noses into artists set ups – and often find themselves “in the picture.” Painting en plein air is not for everyone; members have to tolerate heat, humidity, gnats, bees, and the constant threat of ticks, but one glorious day makes up for everything.

ON EXHIBIT

A Treasure Trove of Visual History Seventy years of painting the Piedmont has left behind a treasure trove of visual records of this bucolic and historic area. The public can view paintings and photographs by Loudoun Sketch Club’s current members at two venues this fall.

» Oct. 18 is the day of the Aldie Fair, and the Sketch Club plans to compliment the art show with demonstrations of plein air painting by club members throughout the day. The exhibit will be open Oct. 10-20

» The annual Sketch Club exhibit at Hillsborough Vineyard will run from Nov. 22 to Jan. 5, with a reception on Sunday, Nov. 23. More information on these two art exhibits and the Sketch Club may be found at www.loudounsketchclub.com

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Rock Hill

Watercolor, 5" x 9" by Mary MacDonnell THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Old Relics

Watercolor, 8" x 10" by Catherine Hilis

Vintage

Oil /Canvas, 12" x 24" by Elly Friedman THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Rock Hill Garden Watercolor, 15” x 22” by Lorrie Herman

Daisy Field

Goache, 14”x 21” by Margaret Huddy THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Creek Bed, Purcellville

Oil/Canvas, 48" x 30" by Dana Thompson THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Shelburn Glebe Graphite, 8" x11" by Robbyn Holmes

Dairy Barn

Photography, 25" x 20" by J. Riley Stewart THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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View From Hillsborough Winery Watercolor, 10" x 22" by Mary MacDonnell

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mary Champion is the Membership Chair and Newsletter Feature Writer of the Loudoun Sketch Club. She can be reached at championart@aol.com and www.marychampionart.com

Oakland Green

Oil on Panel, 10" x 6" by S. Bland THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle: Celebrating the Land Through Creative Exploration By Trish Crowe

he year was 2001 and my family was moving home from London to Virginia. We had bought a 200year old farmhouse set in the Piedmont region of Madison County. While selecting colors for the house, as well as the milking parlor that would one day be my studio, I found myself challenged by how my choices were affected by Virginia light vs. the light in England. It was then that I first realized that Firnew Farm was going to be an excellent home for studying color and art history. What I didn’t know then was that it would also become a source of creative inspiration not only for myself, but for a group of local artists. A goat farmer in our summer vegetable co-op introduced me to a fellow local artist while offering fine handcrafted cheeses. In speaking with him, the idea of an artist’s circle began percolating. I decided to set aside Thursdays as a sacred painting day to be shared with like-minded creative souls. By invite, four artists showed up the first Thursday and I was thrilled! Through wordof-mouth, more artists found their way over time, up the long drive to the now peach-colored milking parlor which has become the home studio of Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle. Today we have 29 active members with a waiting list. Initially, we installed our art shows in the studio. Later, we converted the old barn and silo into a gallery with a hanging system and proper lighting. More recently, we have expanded our exhibitions to local venues, including Woodberry Forest School, Montpelier, and

several local vineyards, such as DuCard and Early Mountain. The Madison Inn and Kemper House also featured Firnew shows. The synergy of the this artist circle has spurred collaborative projects incorporating mixed media, including pencil, watercolor and photography, and textile and fabric creations. We conceived two photographic series celebrating the land and the people that work the land: “The Legacy of the Land and The Voices of the Land.” We have adopted the term “American Localism” to define our common philosophy. Member Lou Messa, an accomplished and prolific acrylic and oil painter, observed, “People respond to local scenes in art. They want art that features the hills and the mountains here that they love.” As a group and as individual artists, our inspiration comes from the natural beauty around us. Firnew Farm artists tend to favor a representational (rather than abstract) approach in their work depicting local landmarks, the effects of the seasons, and details of trees, flowers, rivers, mountains, barns and fence lines. There is a cleanness and clarity, an attention to detail, across all media in our group’s body of work. Nature’s influence is primary, while people as subjects are de-emphasized or altogether absent. Our works harken in style and subject back to the Hudson River School of landscape painters like Moran, Church, or Bierstadt. Harmony-with-place is a recurring theme, perhaps striving for an intimacy that might otherwise go missing in our busy, harried, computerized 21st century lives. The land itself dominates our work; neither the huge, dominating human forms of Benton

nor the powerful, gesturing people of the Ash Can School are found in our work. Our most prolific members — Richard, Lou, Sue, Bertha, Mack, Leslie, Janice, Chee, Frances, Richard, Anne and even digital concept artist Noah as well as (and perhaps especially!) our photographers Pat and Larry — usually create landscapes or landscape features, seldom depicting people. Even our two Johns — both expert portrait photographers — minimize the human presence in their local scenes. In our never-ending journey of creative exploration, we are lucky to have a number of teachers among our group. One of them, Leslie Barham, taught high school advanced placement art in Virginia Beach. She offers an art talk once a month to the group using master and historical works to support presentation topics — and brings my original goal of exploring art history as a group to life! As a group we are mindful of the importance of supporting young people who aspire to create. In the memory of two of our beloved artists — Tucker Hill and Diana Fackenthal — we are fortunate to be able to support aspiring college students with scholarships awarded each year. Recipients join us in the studio during their summer breaks to share their experiences and new-found expertise as well as benefit from the creative camaraderie and enthusiastic nurturing environment that makes Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle a truly special experience. For more information about the Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle, please check out FirnewFarmArtistsCircle.wordpress.com.

As a group and as individual artists, our inspiration comes from the natural beauty around us. THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Penn Farm Reflection Photography by John Berry

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Field of Wildflowers

Photography, 16" x 20" by Pat Temples Photograph from “The Voices of the Land” series for the Blue Ridge Foothills Conservancy

Heartland

Palette Knife in Oil, 20" x 30" by Richard Wyvill

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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Ivy

Colored pencil, 20" x 28" by Leslie Barham

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In the Presence of the Sublime Transparent Watercolor, 37" x 31" by Chee Kludt Ricketts

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Trish Crowe, who holds a B.F.A. from the Parsons School of Design in New York, is an artist living in Madison County. More of Trish Crowe’s work can be seen at http:// trishcrowe.blogspot.com/ THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

Arts Essentials Comfort Cottage Fair Trade and Gifts

45 Main Street, Sperryville, VA 22740 540-987 - 8251 www.facebook.com/KnitWitYarnShop comfortsperryville@gmail.com The new location of Comfort Shop has a great selection of certified Fair Trade handmade gifts and products from around the world as well as items Made in the USA including organic cotton clothing for women and children. Lots for the guys as well! We have chocolate, organic coffee by the cup and by the pound and nostalgic candy. We offer free gift boxing!

Knit Wit Yarn Shop

45 Main Street, Sperryville, VA 22740 540-987 - 8251 www.facebook.com/KnitWitYarnShop knitwityarnshop@gmail.com Beautiful selection of fiber products and knitting supplies featuring many local producers. We have wool, silk, linen and cotton yarn, wool felting supplies, patterns and notions. "Sit and Knit" is every Tuesday evening. Instructions and group classes are available. Call for details!

Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts

813 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-373-5646; www.fccava.org Where art and history meet! FREDERICKSBURG In the heart of Old Town Fredericksburg, located in the historic Silversmith House (circa 1785), FCCA is the area’s oldest gallery, established in 1963. A non-profit, all-volunteer organization and partner of the VMFA, presenting new monthly exhibits of local, regional and national artists. Open daily 12 p.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Tuesday. CENTER FOR THE CREATIVE

A PARTNER OF THE VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Geneva Welch Gallery

41 Main Street, Washington, VA 22747 540-675-3332, 540-675-3779; www.genevawelch.com Geneva Welch is a nationally known artist, specializing in watercolors and oil paintings of animals and country scenes. She lives in Rappahannock County, with her family THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

and many animals. Her gallery and shop carries her limited edition prints and original paintings along with gift items of her own hand painted Christmas ornaments, and 30 card designs from her paintings.

Ginger Hill Antiques

12625 Lee Highway, Washington, VA 22747 540-987-8440; www.gingerhillantiques.com Open everyday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Glassworks Gallery

11774 Lee Hwy., Sperryville, VA 22740 540-987-8474; www.glassworksgallery.com weblowglass@glassworksgallery.com Since 1984, Glassworks Gallery has offered excellent quality local art and fine craft to add a little bit of beauty to your world. Unique one of a kind artwork from 32 talented artists. Mediums include hand blown glass, pottery, woodwork, metalwork, jewelry, photography, stained glass, engraved glass, sculpture and more!

Haley Fine Art

42 Main Street, Sperryville, VA 22740 540-987-1000; www.haleyfineart.com Haley Fine Art showcases regional art and fine craft in historic Sperryville, Virginia. HFA connects collectors with artists and the context in which their work evolves. HFA also offers custom picture framing, art appraisal, design, delivery and installation services. Hours: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Kid Pan Alley

P.O. Box 38, Washington, VA 22747 540-322-2022; www.kidpanalley.org Kid Pan Alley is a non-profit arts education organization. We provide songwriter in residence programs nationwide to children in schools, summer camps and through community engagement programs. Our mission is to inspire and empower children to work together to become creators of their own music, and to rekindle creativity as a core value in education. For more information: info@kidpanalley.org.

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James Hricko Architect

118 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA 20186 540-341-8850; www.jameshricko.com James Hricko Architect LLC was established in 1975 as a full service architectural firm. James Hricko is involved in every aspect of a project and is responsible for assembling and managing the design team, including consultants in structural, mechanical and electrical engineering, land planning and landscape architecture, and interior design, as well as the coordination of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) support.

Juba Mountain Pottery

www.jubamountainpottery.com Susan Dienelt lives and works on juba mountain fours miles from Sperryville, VA. She makes functional pots for use in the kitchen and at the table. Her high-fired stoneware is dishwasher, microwave and oven-safe. Salt is used during the firing to create a patina unique to each pot so that no two are exactly alike.

McGuffey Art Center

201 Second St., NW, Charlottesville, VA 22902 434-295-7973; www.mcguffeyartcenter.com McGuffey Art Center is located in the hisMCGUFFEY ART CENTER toric section of downtown Charlottesville. As an artist association, McGuffey Art Center supports the artistic growth of emerging and professional artists in both visual and performing arts. McGuffey is equally dedicated to providing opportunities for the community to parOPEN STUDIOS – WORKING ARTISTS ticipate in these creative processes through access GALLERIES – MONTHLY EXHIBITIONS – studios, ALL LEVELS AND AGES toCLASSES open exhibitions and performances, PERFORMANCE ART GIFT SHOP classes, tours and outreach projects. As an artist’s COMMUNITY OUTREACH cooperative venue, they rely on individuals and artO T –S 10AM–6PM S 1–5PM S S contribute , NW istsC201 willing to their time and energy for , VA 22902 (434) 295-7973 the success of this community arts center. . . M

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PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS Middle Street Gallery

3 River Lane, Suite 1-B, Sperryville, VA, 22740 540-987-9330; www.middlestreetgallery.org The Middle Street Gallery’s mission is to support quality and innovation in the arts, to promote the exposure, exhibition and sale of its members’ work, and to provide opportunities for the interaction between artists and the community in a regional, rural setting.

Nichols Gallery

5420 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville, VA 22923 540-832-3565; www.frednichols.com; fred@ frednichols.com; Fred Nichols, owner, creates positive and uplifting art with a focus on nature. Nichols Gallery has several kinds of artwork including silkscreens, oil paintings and watercolors. Join us for our upcoming show: “Back to Nature; Real Art for an Unreal time,” a group show, Oct. 4 to Dec. 2 Thursday- Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

One Year Only

29 Main Street, Sperryville, VA 22740 540-987-9400 A serendipitous collection of artifacts from a band of Aging Artists, One Year Only offers hand painted furniture, home accessories, floral arrangements, jewelry, collectibles, and a spattering of vintage crafted by our Aging Artists who will delight us with their wares for only one year before retiring in December of 2014. “GET IT WHILE WE LAST”

P. H. Miller Studio, framemaker

1 East Main Street, Berryville, VA 22611 540-955-3939; www.phmiller.com; peter@phmiller.com Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. -5:30 p.m., Sunday and Monday by chance or appointment. Peter Miller’s talent and 31 years of designing and making frames for paintings and mirrors are showcased in his Berryville studio and showroom. The studio works with private collectors, designers and dealers to create period appropriate and historically inspired artisan frames. Carving is done by hand and traditional water gilding is completed using the same materials and techniques as developed during the Renaissance period. Restoration services available.

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

Piedmont Symphony Orchestra

www.piedmontsymphony.org The mission of the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra (PSO) is to provide an enduring creative outlet for both the musicians and the community, which entertains, educates and furnishes a shared experience in the symphonic repertoire. Proudly based at the Rice Theatre of the Highland Center for the Arts, the PSO is quickly emerging as the premier orchestral ensemble of the Greater-Piedmont region. Established as the Piedmont Regional Orchestra in 1996, the PSO provides local musicians and audiences with a variety of traditional, contemporary and classical music, appealing to a wide variety of tastes.

RAAC

www.raac.org Artists of Rappahannock Open Study and Gallery Tour- November 3 and 4: Tour the bucolic byways of Rappahannock County (1.5 hrs from D.C., 2 hrs from Richmond) as you visit 25 artists in their personal studios. Eight art galleries will also hold special exhibits during this weekend. Now in its eighth year. $10 for two days.

Real Estate III

291 Gay St., P.O. Box 298, Washington, VA 22747; 540-675-1373 rappahannocklife.wordpress.com Country homes, land and getaways in Rappahannock, Madison & Fauquier Counties.

River District Arts

3 River Lane, Sperryville VA 22740 www.riverdistrictarts.org River District Arts is a vibrant, creative community with 14 artists in nine working studios, an artisan market featuring handmade Virginia crafts, and two galleries exhibiting local and regional artists. Open to the public every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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The Theatre at Washington

291 Gay Street, Washington, VA 540-675-1253 www.TheatreWashingonVA.com Offering professional entertainment for all tastes. This season, the theatre presents a play by Shakespeare; the satire of Mark Russell; and an outstanding lineup of musicians: the acoustic group "Molasses Creek," the jazz guitar duo Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo, a jazz trio featuring Ken Peplowski on sax, and Cooter's Garage Band, plus several classical concerts.

Warrenton Chorale

P.O. Box 821, Warrenton, VA 20188 www.warrentonchorale.org Warrenton Chorale The mission of The WarrenChristmas ton Chorale is to enrich the In Music lives of our singers, audiences and community by performing diverse styles of choral music. Presents

2014

Tickets available November 10 Donation-$12 at the door, $10 in advance at: Great Harvest Bread, g.whillikers Toys & Books, & New Baltimore Animal Hospital

December 4 & 5, 8:00 p.m. December 6, 2:00 p.m.

Warrenton United Methodist Church www.WarrentonChorale.org

Washington Fine Properties

Washington, VA 540-675-1488 Middleburg 540-687-6395, www.wfp.com Washington Fine Properties is known for its powerful marketing as well as its geographic reach in terms of attracting buyers. The company serves its clients through offices in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, including the renowned “hunt country” of Virginia. Our agents provide unparalleled services to both buyers and sellers with the highest level of expertise, professionalism and personal service.

Wintergreen Performing Arts

434-325-8292 www.wintergreenperformingarts.org Wintergreen Performing Arts offers music and performing arts programming throughout the year. The highlight is the annual Wintergreen Summer Music Festival and Academy, which takes place from early July through early August at Wintergreen Resort. The Festival consists of more than 200 events, including performances by the Wintergreen Festival Orchestra, chamber music, educational seminars, cooking classes, dance, theatre and much more.

PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS of

RAPPAHANNOCK

Piedmont Art Directory This is a comprehensive listing of galleries, studios, music, and more. Art Galleries Albemarle County

TenTH ANNuAL Studio & Gallery Tour

Chroma Projects Art Laboratory

418 E Main St., Charlottesville 22902 434-202-0269, www.chromaprojects.com C’Ville Arts

Tour the Studios & Galleries of Rappahannock County 19 Open Studios 7 Galleries Over 50 participating artists Saturday, November 1 & Sunday, November 2 10 AM - 5 PM Rain or shine $10 admission Tour Headquarters & Fire Hall Gallery Washington, VA Directions

From I-495 VA take I-66W to RT 17S to Warrenton. Follow RT 17 to Business 29 Warrenton. Turn right on RT 29 and right on RT 211W. Go 22 miles and turn right on Warren Avenue (Business 211) into Washington, VA. Turn right on Firehouse Lane to the Fire Hall.

118 E Main St., Charlottesville 22902 434-972-9500, www.cvillearts.org Firefish Gallery

108 2nd St., NW, Charlottesville 22902 434-984-1777, www.firefishgallery.net Les Yeux du Monde

841 Wolf Trap Road, Charlottesville 22911 434-973-5566, www.lesyeuxdumonde.com McGuffey Art Center

201 2nd St. NW, Charlottesville 22902 434-295-7973, www.mcguffeyartcenter.com Oil Paintings by Randy Baskerville

August 1 to 31, 2014, by appointment only 434-466-2002, randy@baskerville.com Second Street Gallery

115 2nd St. SE, Charlottesville 22902 434-977-7284, www.secondstreetgallery.org Warm Springs Gallery

105 Third St. NE, Charlottesville 22902 434-245-0800, www.warmspringsgallery.com

Clarke County Duvall Designs Gallery

2053 Millwood Road, Millwood 22620 540-336-9631, www.duvalldesignsgallery.com j@jonduvall.com, peggy@jonduvall.com Firehouse Gallery and Shop

23 E Main St., Berryville 22611 540-955-4001, www.firehousegalleryandshop.org

For more info, visit www.raac.org THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

Berkley Gallery

40 Main St., Warrenton 20186 540-341-7367, www.berkleygallery.com Framecraft Fine Arts and Fine Frames

64 Main St., Warrenton, 20186 540-341-0001, www.framecraftofva.com Live an Artful Life

6474 Main St., The Plains 20198 540-253-9797, www.liveanartfullife.com Youngblood Studio

6084 Main St., The Plains 20198 540-253-5667 Zigzag Crafts Gallery and Shop

6477 Main St., The Plains 20198 540-253-5364, www.zigzagtheplains.com

Fredericksburg Art First Gallery

824 Caroline St., Suite 1, Fredericksburg 22401 540-371-7107, artfirstgallery.com Artful Dimensions Gallery

911 Charles St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-899-6319, artfuldimensionsgallery.com Backdoor Gallery

4500 Plank Rd., Suite 1012, Fredericksburg 22407 540-786-4455, www.facebook.com/ BackdoorGallery Brush Strokes Gallery

824 Caroline St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-368-0560, brushstrokesfredericksburg.com contact@brushstrokesfredericksburg.com Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts

813 Sophia St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-373-5646, www.fccava.org LibertyTown Arts Workshop

1 East Main St., Berryville 22611 540-955-3939, www.phmiller.com

916 Liberty St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-371-7255, libertytownarts.com libertytownarts@verizon.net

Culpeper County

P. Rose Gallery

P.H. Miller Studio, Framemakers

The Loft

107—B East Davis St., Culpeper 22701 202-669-5195, www.culpeperloft.com Pachamama Art Studio/Gallery

The Rappahannock Association for the Arts and the Community

Fauquier County

709 Caroline St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-371-8499, prosegallery.com info@prosegallery.com PONSHOP Studio

120 W Culpeper St., Suite C, Culpeper 22701 203-615-1273, pachamamaartstudio.blogspot.com

712 Caroline St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-656-2215, www.ponshopstudio.com shop@ponshopstudio.com

Sara Schneidman Gallery

Studio A

122 E Davis St., Culpeper 22701 540-825-0034, www.saraschneidman.com

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1011 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-368-2120

PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS Loudoun County Arts in the Village Gallery

1601 Village Market Blvd., Suite 116 Leesburg 20175 571-442-8661, www.artsinthevillage.com Byrne Gallery

540-687-6986, www.byrnegallery.com byrnegallery@aol.com The Cooley Gallery

12 S King St., Leesburg 20175 703-779-4639, www.thecooleygallery.com Gateway Gallery

Fine Furniture / Garden / Books Collectables / Fine Art / Jewelry

35246 Harry Byrd Hwy., Suite 120, Round Hill 20141 540-338-3001, www.thegatewaygallery.com Loudoun Art Square

312 E Market St., Leesburg 20176 703-777-8043, www.loudounartsquare.org Middleburg Arts Project Gallery

4 East Federal Street, Middleburg 20118 540-454-9118, www.middleburgarts.org Red Fox Fine Art

2 E Washington St., Middleburg 20117 540-687-5780, www.redfoxfineart.com The Sporting Gallery

11 W Washington St., Middleburg 20118 540-687-6447, www.sportinggallery.com

juba mountainpottery

Middle Street Gallery

Madison County Lou Messa’s Fine Art Gallery

P.O. Box 503, Madison 22727 www.loumessa.com Madison Art Exchange (MadArts)

7353 S Seminole Trail - Route 29, Rochelle 22738 540-948-3300, www.madisonartsexchange.com Nelson County Nan Rothwell Pottery salt fired, functional stoneware pottery for use and enjoyment in everyday life

studio and gallery open by appointment www.jubamountainpottery.com

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 3 River Lane, Sperryville, VA 22740 • 540-987-9330

www.middlestreetgallery.org

Every fine painting deserves a P. H. Miller Studio Frame

221 Pottery Lane, Faber 22938 434-263-4023, www.nanrothwellpottery.com

Orange County The Corner House Gallery

173 W Main St., Orange 22960 540-672-5019, www.cornerhousegalleryva.com Graves Fine Art Gallery

205 S Main St., Gordonsville 22942 540-832-7679, www.gravesfineartgallery.com Morin Gallery at The Arts Center in Orange

129 E Main St., Orange 22960 540-672-7311, artscenterinorange.com Fred Nichols Studio/Gallery

ARTISAN FRAMES GILDING RESTORATION

5420 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville 22923 540-832-3565, www.frednichols.com Sun’s Traces Gallery

1 East Main Street, Berryville, VA 22611 | 540-955-3939 Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10: 00 am-5:30 pm | www.phmiller.com Sundays and Mondays by chance or appointment

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

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5449 Governor Barbour St., Box 161, Barboursville 22923 434-973-3700, www.vaclay.com

AIA

PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS Prince William County ArtBeat Gallery

9407 Main St., Manassas 20110 703-365-8558, www.artbeatgallery.org Artists’ Undertaking Gallery

309 Mill St., Occoquan 22125 703-494-0584, www.theartistsundertaking.com Creative Brush Studio

9082 Center St., Manassas 20110 703-335-8005, www.creativebrush.com The Loft Gallery

313 Mill St., Occoquan 22125 703-490-1117, www.loftgallery.org

Rappahannock County Confluent Gallery/River District Arts/ Rappahannock Central

3 River Lane, P.O. Box 224, Sperryville 22740 540-987-8770, www.riverdistrictarts.org

Piedmont Regional Art Show & Sale

Mother’s Day Weekend at Grace Church 6507 Main St., The Plains 20198 540-253-5177, www.gracetheplains.org

Organizations/ Instruction Art at the Mill

Clarke County Historical Association Burwell-Morgan Mill 15 Tannery Ln., Millwood 22646 (Direct ALL mail to CCHA, P.O. Box 306, Berryville 22611), 540-955-2600, www.clarkehistory.org The Arts Center in Orange

129 East Main St. / P.O. Box 13, Orange 22960 540-672-7311, www.artscenterinorange.com ArtSquare

www.kahlerfineart.com

312 East Market St., Leesburg 20175 703-777-8043, www.loudounacademy.org

Geneva Welch Gallery

Blue Ridge Pottery

Frederick Kahler

341 Main St., Washington 22747 540-675-3332, www.genevawelch.com

9 Golden Horseshoe Road, Stanardsville 22973 www.blueridgepottery.com, 434-409-3319

Glassworks Gallery/ Oldway Art Center

Big Dog Pots Pottery

11774 Lee Hwy., Sperryville 22740 540-987-8474, glassworksgallery.com, oldway.net

8287 East Main St., Marshall, 20115 540-364-2834, www.bigdogpots.net

Haley Fine Art

Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory

42 Main St., Sperryville 22740 540-987-1000, haleyfineart.com

9419 Battle St., Manassas 20110 703-330-2787, www.center-for-the-arts.org

Middle Street Gallery

Central Virginia Watercolor Guild

3 River Ln., Suite 1-B, Sperryville 22740 540-987-9330, middlestreetgallery.org Old Rag Photography

313 East Monacan Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22901 Contact: Jane Williamson 434-973-5221 central-virginian-watercolor-guild.org

3 River Ln. Sperryville 22740 540-987-8747 www.facebook.com/OldRagPhotography oldraggallery@gmail.com

The Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle

R.H. Ballard Gallery

Franklin Park Arts Center

307 Main St., Washington 22747 540-675-1411, www.rhballard.com

Artful Events Art at the Mill

Burwell-Morgan Mill 15 Tannery Ln., Millwood 22646 540-955-2600, www.clarkehistory.org/art-at-the-mill.html Artisans Studio Tour

434-973-6846, www.artisanstudiotour.com Artists of Rappahannock Studio and Gallery Tour

P. O. Box 24, Washington 22747 1-800-695-6075, www.raac.org Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Show/Sale

Oatlands Plantation 20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln., Leesburg 20175 703-777-3174, www.oatlands.org

Contact: Trish Crowe, 540-948-3079 TheStudioFirnewFarm@gmail.com firnewfarmartistscircle.wordpress.com 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville 20132 540-338-8598, www.franklinparkartscenter.org Great Graphics

410 & 503 East Main Street, Historic Downtown Mall, Charlottesville 434-973-0545, Greatvintagegraphics.com Loudoun Academy of the Arts

312 East Market St., Leesburg 20175 703-777-8043, www.loudounacademy.org The Loudoun Arts Council

15 N King St., Suite 202/P.O. Box 4270 Leesburg 20176 703-722-6086, www.loudounarts.org

JAMES HRICKO ARCHITECT LLC WARRENTON VIRGINIA CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL RENOVATION REMODELING COMMERCIAL HISTORIC WWW.JAMESHRICKO.COM JHRICKO@VERIZON.NET 540.341.8850 OLD BUST HEAD BREWING COMPANY HAS BREATHED NEW LIFE INTO FORMER WORLD WAR II ARMY INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE STRUCTURES LOCATED AT VINT HILL IN FAUQUIER COUNTY, VIRGINIA. EXISTING INDUSTRIAL ELEMENTS WERE INCORPORATED WITH NEW MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS TO CREATE AN UPDATED INDUSTRIAL AESTHETIC FOR THE NEW TAP ROOM AND BEER GARDEN.

Mark your calendars . . .

2015 Wintergreen Summer Music Festival July 6-August 2 Wintergreen Resort, Virginia

Louisa Arts Center

212 Fredericksburg Ave./ P.O. Box 2119, Louisa 23093 540-967-2200, www.louisaarts.org

Phone: (434) 325-8292 www.wintergreenperformingarts.org

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Warrenton Chorale Presents

Christmas In Music 2014

PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS Madison Arts Exchange

7353 S Seminole Trail - Route 29, Rochelle 22738 540-948-3300, www.madisonartsexchange.com McGuffey Art Center

201 2nd St NW, Charlottesville 22902 434-2957973, www.mcguffeyartcenter.com Noon Whistle Pottery

328 Main St., Stanardsville 22973 434-985-6500, www.noonwhistlepottery.com Opus Oaks, an Art Place, Inc.

109 First St., Berryville 22611 540-955-4226, www.opusoaks.org Piedmont Council for the Arts

100 Fifth St. NE / P.O. Box 2426, Charlottesville 22902 434-971-2787, www.charlottesvillearts.org PONSHOP Studio

712 Caroline St., Fredericksburg 22401 540-656-2215, www.ponshopstudio.com shop@ponshopstudio.com Prince William Arts Council Tickets available November 10 Donation-$12 at the door, $10 in advance at: Great Harvest Bread, g.whillikers Toys & Books, & New Baltimore Animal Hospital

December 4 & 5, 8:00 p.m. December 6, 2:00 p.m.

Warrenton United Methodist Church www.WarrentonChorale.org

4701 Locust Shade Dr., Triangle 22172 703-221-2159, www.pwcartscouncil.org River District Arts

3 River Ln., Sperryville 22740 540-987-8770, www.riverdistrictarts.org Round Hill Arts Center

35246 Harry Byrd Hwy., Round Hill 20141 540-338-5022, www.roundhillartscenter.org Rappahannock Association for the Arts and the Community

P.O. Box 24, Washington 22747-0024 1-800-695-6075, www.raac.org Virginia Foundation for the Humanities

145 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville 22903-4629 434-924-3296, www.virginiahumanities.org The William Woodward School of Fine Art

70 S Fifth St., Warrenton 20186 540-364-4894, www.williamwoodwardschool.org Windmore Foundation for the Arts

P.O. Box 38, Culpeper 22701 540-547-4333, www.windmorefoundation.org

Community Theatre Groups Fauquier Community Theater

4225 Aiken Dr., Warrenton 20187 540-349-8760, www.fctstage.org Four County Players

5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville 22923 540-832-5355, www.fourcp.org The Growing Stage Theatre Company

P.O. Box 648, Purcellville 540-338-5367, www.growingstage.org info@growingstage.org

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

Welcome to Rappahannock w mo e’ve ved !

Forgotten Creek

Bed and Breakfast

comfort

fair trade • gifts • organic clothing

(540) 987-8251 knitwityarnshop@gmail.com

45 Main Street Sperryville, VA 22740

One Year Only ah for Aging The Last Hurr

Artists

WE Get It While Sperry 29 Main St. |

Last 7-9400

ville | 540-98

ay Mondays ; Sun & Holid

Fri & Sat 10-5

11-4

working farm • large stocked pond • mountain views homegrown berries, fruit & vegetables

www.forgottencreekbnb.com 540-937-7303 | 43 Forgotten Creek Lane Amissville, VA

El Quijote

GLASSWORKS GALLERY

Spanish Restaurant

Mountain Mystic

Trading Company

Fri. & Sat. 11 - 10 Thurs. & Sun. 11 - 9 540-987-8187 Mon. 11 - 8 3 River Lane, Sperryville: River District Arts building

elquijotevirginia.com

Remarkable Local Work www.glassworksgallery.com 540-987-8474 • 1 Mi W of Sperryville, Rt. 211

Sterling Silver Jewelry, Crystals & Minerals, Incense, Oils, Tapestries, Chimes & More 215 South St., Front Royal, VA | 540-635-6318

www.mountainmystic.com Closed Wednesday

THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

GENEVA WELCH

GALLERY

E R G I N G

R T

& C

341 Main Street Washington, Virginia Shop: 540.675.3332 Studio: 540.675.3779 www.genevawelch.com

O M M U N I T Y

MCGUFFEY ART CENTER

Live Arts

201 SECOND STREET, NW CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22902 (434) 295-7973 WWW.MCGUFFEYARTCENTER.COM

Manassas Chorale

9419 Battle St., Manassas 20110 703-330-2787, www.center-for-the-arts.org/programs/pied-pipertheatre Prince William Little Theatre

P.O. Box 341, Manassas 20108 571-969-7958, www.pwlt.org Windmore Foundation for the Arts

P.O. Box 38, Culpeper 22701 540-547-4333, www.windmorefoundation.org Classical Music in the Piedmont

The Chateauville Foundation

662 Castleton View Road, Castleton 22716 540-937-3454, www.chateauville.org Chopin in Barboursville

P. O. Box 461, Gordonsville 22942 434-906-0274, www.premiervirginiaproperties. com/ChopininBarboursville Crossroads Youth Orchestra

Contact: Carla Jewell 540-317-1115, windmorefoundation.org/ crossroads-youth-orchestra Grace Church Concert Series

6507 Main St./ P.O. Box 32, The Plains 20198 540-253-5177, www.gracetheplains.org Hylton Performing Arts Center

10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas 20110 703-993-7759, www.hyltoncenter.org Kid Pan Alley

P.O. Box 38, Washington 22747 540-322-2022, www.kidpanalley.org info@kidpanalley.org THE PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

Piedmont Symphony Orchestra

597 Broadview Ave. / P.O. Box 509, Warrenton 20188 www.piedmontsymphony.org music@piedmontsymphony.org The Theatre at Washington

291 Gay St./ P.O. Box 322, Washington 22747 540-675-1253, www.theatre-washington-va.com

Warrenton Chorale

801 W Main St., Suite 201/ P.O. Box 4206, Charlottesville 22905 434-924-3376, www.cvillesymphony.org

frednichols.com 540-832-3565

The Opera House, 9086 Center St./ P.O. Box 1370, Manassas 20110 703-853-0749, www.manassassymphony.org

Blue Ridge Chorale of Culpeper

Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra

Barboursville, Virginia

Manassas Symphony Orchestra

Waterford Concert Series

7 Castleton Meadows Ln., Castleton 22716 540-937-3454, www.castletonfestival.org

Contemporary Art 5420 Governor Barbour Street

P.O. Box 101, Manassas 20108 703-361-2146 x291, www.manassaschorale.org

Ash Lawn Opera Series 226 E High St./ P.O. Box 2498, Charlottesville 22902 434-293-4500, www.ashlawnopera.org

Castleton Festival

Nichols Galleries

Loudoun Symphony Orchestra

Middleburg Players

P.O. Box 1871, Culpeper 22701 540-497-3408, www.brcsings.com

Downstream, Rapidan oil by Frederick Nichols

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 605 W Market St., Leesburg 703-771-0996, www.loudounlyricopera.com 7 Loudoun St. SE, Suite 4 / P.O. Box 4478, Leesburg 20176 703-771-8287, www.loudounsymphony.org

Pied Piper Theatre

OPEN TUES–SAT 10AM–6PM SUN 1–5PM

Loudoun Lyric Opera

123 E Water St., Charlottesville 22902-5218 434-977-4177, www.livearts.org P.O. Box 431, Middleburg 20118 www.middleburgplayers.com

OPEN STUDIOS – WORKING ARTISTS GALLERIES – MONTHLY EXHIBITIONS CLASSES – ALL LEVELS AND AGES PERFORMANCE ART GIFT SHOP COMMUNITY OUTREACH

PIEDMONT VIRGINIAN GUIDE TO THE ARTS

2014-2015

40183 Main St./ P.O. Box 142, Waterford 20197-0142 540-882-3018, www.waterfordfoundation.org P.O. Box 821, Warrenton 20188 www.warrentonchorale.org Wintergreen Performing Arts

P.O. Box 816, Wintergreen 22958 434-325-8292, www.wintergreenperformingarts.org info@wintergreenperformingarts.org

Photographers Edward Payne

Fauquier and Rappahannock www.edwardpaynephoto.com John Grant Studios

1709 Old Forge Road, Charlottesville 22901 434-977-8046, www.johngrantstudios.com Robert Llewellyn, Albemarle

434-973-8000, Robert@robertllewellyn.com robertllewellyn.com Sunny Reynolds

81 Main Street, Warrenton 20186 540-349-0040, www.sunnyreynoldsphotography.com

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