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Old Tree Saved As Wildlife Habitat By Doug Pifer
For the past five years, every time it stormed we worried that a big limb would break off our beloved old Kentucky coffee tree and destroy our entryway fence. Now our property is safe from that disaster, and a magnificent old tree remains as wildlife habitat. I invited Erik Berndt, certified arborist and owner of Viking Tree Service, LLC, to inspect the nearly dead tree. My wife and I wanted to save as many main branches as possible while minimizing the risk of damage by falling wood. He agreed our tree was an excellent candidate for trimming as a wildlife habitat tree. He encouraged me to look at some of the standing dead trees at Morgan’s Grove Park, which his company cares for, to see examples of his work. We were impressed when we examined several standing dead trees there. Each was trimmed to look like a natural dead snag in the woods. After years of cringing whenever we saw a big shade tree with branches crudely lopped off, we were overjoyed to find a company willing to trim our tree the way we wanted. We were also delighted to find a tree service that considers a wildlife habitat tree an actual “thing.” Viking Tree crew showed up at the appointed time with an impressive array of equipment and machinery. With block and
tackle they ascended the main trunk and carefully removed the outer branches. When they encountered a heavy limb whose weight would stress the tree in a storm, they removed it with surgical precision. But they didn’t stop there. They made a series of V-shaped cuts at the top of each large limb to allow moisture to enter the dead wood, so the tree decays from the top down. This allows the main trunk to remain sound and stand for many years. Furthermore, cuts carefully made at various angles made the limbs look like they splintered and broke off naturally. For hard-to-reach limbs, a large lift was necessary. Each cut made the tree look safer and less likely to drop a branch to crush our fence or garden shed. By 4pm the crew had completed the finishing touches, and I admired the balanced,
Christmas is coming!!
Join the Main Street Chamber Orchestra and dancers from the Blue Ridge Studio for the Perfroming Arts for a free performance of Tchaikovsky's beloved
Nutcracker ballet.
3pm, December 11 at Grace Episcopal Church
110 North Church Street, Berryville
sculptural quality of the tree and its remaining branches. It was a piece of art. While it’s now official, this tree had already been wildlife habitat for a long time. Several trunks have woodpecker holes in them. The lowest branch sprouts a tuft of stunted Kentucky coffee tree leaves. Years ago, a bird dropped a seed of bush honeysuckle into the crotch between two main trunks about ten feet up. The seed has grown into a sizeable bush. More bits of green include poison ivy and Virginia creeper vines, and a young Kentucky coffee tree shoot that has sprouted next to the trunk, growing from the original root system. A tree is home to an amazing amount of life. As it matures and declines, it hosts an increasing number of organisms — from mold and bacteria to algae and fungi, to insects and spiders to woodpeckers and raccoons. Fallen limbs continue to feed and shelter numerous life forms as they decompose and enrich the soil. For an old tree, dying isn’t an occurrence but more of a gradual transformation. Our Kentucky coffee tree demonstrates how a treasured old tree need not be destroyed. It can stand for many years as wildlife habitat.
AUG 2021
Clarke STAFF
David Lillard, Editor/Publisher Jennifer Welliver, Associate Publisher Aundrea Humphreys, Art Director Hali Taylor, Proofreader
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FROM THE EDITOR Welcome Woody’s Quick Stop
AUGUST CONTRIBUTORS Cathy Kuehner Rebecca Maynard Doug Pifer Jody Steohenson Claire Stuart Brenda Waugh
COVER IMAGE
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Clarke prints signed letters-to-the-editor of uniquely local interest. Letters containing personal attacks or polarizing language will not be published. Letters may be edited. Send letters to the editor of 300 or fewer words to: editor@clarkeva.com.
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The building at 304 N. Buckmarsh Street has been a convenience store for as long as anyone can remember; it was most recently owned by Mohammad and Farhat Kashmiree. When William “Woody” Woodruff, who grew up in Berryville, lost his barber shop in Herndon last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned home to visit his mother. While in town, he met the Kashmirees, who wanted to retire, and Woodruff found an opportunity. Woodruff bought the store and opened Woody’s Quick Stop in mid-May. On Aug. 1, Mayor Arnold officially welcomed
Woodruff as a new Berryville business owner and commended him for keeping the convenience store open to serve residents and those traveling along U.S. 340. In the photo above, Woody Woodruff and his wife Tonette Stewart hold the grand-opening ribbon for Berryville Mayor Jay Arnold on August 1 at Woody’s Quick Stop. Watching the ribbon-cutting from behind are (from left) William’s mother Mary Woodruff, longtime store clerk Donna Segar, and the couple’s children Dominique and Jacquez Stewart. Photo provided by Clarke County.
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The big guys in tech are paying attention to a small research group in Berryville, reports Gary McGraw of Berryville Institute of Machine Learning (BIML). “We are working on stuff at the edge of science — artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).” In 2019, McGraw, along with computer scientist Richie Bonett, cyber-security expert Harold Figuroa, and research engineer Victor Shepardson, co-founded BIML, a think tank dealing with ML and AI security. McGraw had retired after 23 years of pioneering work with a software security firm. McGraw holds Ph.Ds. in cognitive and computer science. He is the author of eight books on software security and over 100 peer-reviewed papers in industry publications. ML and AI are at the heart of computer evolution, and computers are an intrinsic part of all facets of modern life. They run energy grids, air and rail traffic, military operations, sat-
ellites, food safety, water supplies, government offices and banking. For ordinary people, there are cellphones, home security systems, smart automobiles, connected appliances, video games, virtual assistants, and more. In ML, computers are programmed to recognize data, automatically learn from it, and use it to improve their own functions. They add to their knowledge so that they can make decisions. When you ask your virtual assistant to play a song, it learns what you like and suggests similar music. It learns your food preferences and offers dining suggestions. But that’s just the “up” side! Anyone who enjoys science fiction has no doubt seen the classic 1968 film, 2001: A Space Odyssey. When “HAL,” the deranged computer, refuses to let the astronaut back into the spaceship, it utters the chilling and unforgettable line, “I’m sorry Dave, I can’t do that!” Fortunately, that scenario did not come true in 2001, but
we are moving a lot closer to meeting HAL now. Bad actors are constantly seeking ways to hack into ML systems, with potentially disastrous results. McGraw observes that in an effort to quickly produce more and more sophisticated technology, security weaknesses are sometimes overlooked. McGraw mentioned a frequently-cited study illustrating an attack on ML — the alteration of a STOP sign with tape so that a self-driving vehicle sees it as a speed limit sign. “If security, reliability and trustworthiness of technology itself is called into question, it makes technology companies take notice,” said McGraw. BIML is doing what McGraw defines as “architectural analyses” of ML systems, identifying weaknesses. “Our targets are the engineers designing these systems,” he explained, “We are helping them to do a better job—to build security in, in the first place, not have to go back and plug holes. All I sug-
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AUG 2021
McGraw finds balance in his life through music. gest is that let’s build security into AI so hackers can’t get into a system. We’re helping the good guys fighting a war on the bad guys.” McGraw notes that BIML’s architectural risk analyses are unique in the field, helping BIML build its reputation. They offer advice from a scientific viewpoint, identifying risks and determining how to mitigate them. McGraw speaks on cyber security at universities and conferences around the country and is on the advisory boards of a number of tech startups. He recently gave a presen-
tation on taxonomy of attacks on ML at a private Silicon Valley conference, the Security Data Science Colloquium. It was attended by about 150 representatives of tech giants Microsoft, Google, Facebook and others, as well as many universities. He was excited to show how Berryville is directly affecting what’s going on in Silicon Valley! Earlier this year, BIML received a $150,000 grant from a group called Open Philantrophy, an organization concerned with the effects of technology on people and the planet. BIML will use the grant to further their research as well to provide funds for an intern. They have their first intern, Nikil Shyamsunder, a Handley High student. McGraw moved to Berryville from Loudoun County in 1999. The speed of development there “pushed me over the mountain,” he said. Now he lives in a circa 1760 farmhouse on 10 acres on the banks of the Shenandoah next to Holy Cross
Abbey. Of course, he observed that development is increasing in Clarke as well. “The future is going to happen — let’s make it better.” He cares deeply about his adopted home town and is concerned that there are local people who are homeless and hungry. Grateful that he has been fortunate, he works to give back by helping make Clarke County a place where everyone can live. He personally gives regularly and generously to the Free Medical Clinic, Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, local Habitat for Humanity and other nonprofits concerned with food, housing, medical care, legal advice and the environment. Although McGraw describes himself as an “alpha geek” he is certainly not one-dimensional. He says music is supremely important to him and provides balance to his life. He is a classically trained musician, but he specializes in improvisation. Starting as a child with violin, he also plays mandolin, guitar and piano. He is in two bands, Bitter Liberals and Where’s Aubrey, and they have played many benefit concerts. With Covid restrictions ending, he looks forward to performing publicly again.
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Sale Ends 8/31/21
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Around Clarke County Promote your event in Clarke. Send notices by the 1st of the preceding month to jennifer@clarkeva.com. Keep event descriptions to 125 words, following the format of these pages. One or two CMYK photos, saved as tiff or jpg at 200 dpi, are always welcome.
August
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–15 Clarke County Fair
Clarke County Ruritan Fairgrounds. 890 W. Main St. Berryville. Animals, horticulture, crafts, baked goods, games, rides and more. See fair schedule online. Admission is $7 for adults, $2 for children 5-15, and free for preschoolers. 540-955-1947. www.clarkecountyfair.org.
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Emi Sunshine Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Rolling Stone once named 15-year-old Emi Sunshine among “10 new country artists you need to know.” Her music addresses domestic violence, dysfunctional families, political corruption, mass murder, lost love and freedom. 7pm. $25 in advance, $30 at door. www.barnsofrosehill.org. 540-955-2004.
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Meet the Beekeepers
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. Meet with
local apiarists of the Beekeepers of Northern Shenandoah and discover the art of beekeeping. 1–3pm. 540-592-3556.
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Birding for Beginners
Long Branch Historic House and Farm. 830 Long Branch Lane. Millwood. Every Tuesday. Wine, soft drinks and light snacks provided. Limited seating; RSVP. $15 per person. 5–7pm. 540-837-1856.
Blandy Experimental Farm. 400 Blandy Farm Lane. Boyce. Join Blandy director and birding enthusiast Dave Carr to practice birding basics. Wear walking shoes and dress for the weather. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair from Blandy. Meet at the flagpole at the front parking lot. Register ahead.8–10am. 540-837-1758. www.blandy.virginia.edu.
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Social Bridge Night
Appalachian Chamber Music Festival: New Beginnings
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Festival celebrates the rich history, nature and culture of the area through poignant and powerful chamber music experiences that are both meaningful and relevant to our times. ACMF brings together fresh and exciting talent, internationallyrecognized artists from near and far who are united by camaraderie and cause for an evening of world-class music.7pm. $20 in advance, $25 at door. www.barnsofrosehill.org. 540-955-2004.
National Honeybee Day
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. Meet the Beekeepers of Northern Shenandoah as they perform a honey extraction. Learn about beekeeping, honeybees and the art of apiculture and support beekeeping by purchasing local honey from club members. 11am–4pm. 540-592-3556.
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Summer’s End Cruise-In
Downtown Berryville. Join us downtown for the 5th Annual CruiseIn Car Show. Explore downtown, shop,
Voted “Best BBQ in the Shenandoah Valley" since 2010! Locally owned and operated for over a decade, Jordan Springs Market is open 7 days a week.
We smoke Beef Brisket, Pork, Chicken, Ribs and more and make delicious homemade sides and sweet treats every day.
741 Jordan Springs Rd Stephenson, VA catering@jordanspringsmarket.com
Stop in for takeout, dine in with us or have us cater your next special event from 10 guests to 1000! www.jordanspringsmarket.com
eat, and have fun. Rain date August 22. Free admission; $10 registration, lineup starts at 2pm with all cars entering on Taylor Street. 4–7pm. 540-955-4001.
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Virginia Whiskey and Barbecue
Clarke County Historical Association. 32 E. Main St. Berryville. Join us for dinner and a lecture about the history and science of Virginia whiskey. Dinner, whiskey tasting and lecture included in price. Virtual talk $7, members $40, nonmembers $50. 5:30–8pm. www.clarkehistory.org.
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Jordan Tice Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Thanks to Michael Hobert, Attorney at Law, for sponsoring this program. Jordan Tice is a singular voice on the American roots music scene. 7–9pm. $20 in advance, $25 at door. www.barnsofrosehill.org. 540-955-2004.
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7 Poe’s Home Improvements New Building & Remodeling Est. 1976
No Job Too Small
Bobcat and Small Backhoe Work Land Clearing • Interior / exterior painting Tree & Brush Removal • 60’ Man-Lift Service
A.B. Poe, Jr. “Pig Eye”
Congratulations to REVEL Gymnastics on their amazing first outing at Regionals. 13 gymnasts brought home 33 medals!! Through incredible team effort, REVEL Gold Team brought home the USAIGC GOLD LEVEL SILVER TEAM AWARD. Gymnasts in attendance were (top row l-r): Malia Weshinskey, Gaby Cevallos, Natalie Orfanides, Pearl Kelly, Marissa Friedl, Rylee Evans. Bottom row (l-r ): Angela Gutierrez, Anna Ballenger, Chloe Welling, Kayla Crowson, Hadley Ayotte
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Outdoor Yoga
Sanctuary Wellness Center. 208 N. Buckmarsh St. Berryville. Led by Amy Hope-Gentry. 9:45–10:45am. www.amyhopegentry.com/events
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Full Moon Walk
Blandy Experimental Farm. 400 Blandy Farm Lane. Boyce. Explore the arboretum at night on a guided nature walk. Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Meet at the flagpole at the front parking close to the arboretum. Register ahead. 8–9pm. 540-837-1758. www.blandy.virginia.edu.
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Social Bridge Night
Long Branch Historic House and Farm. 830 Long Branch Lane. Millwood. Every Tuesday. Wine, soft drinks and light snacks provided. Limited seating; RSVP. $15 per person. 5–7pm. 540-837-1856.
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Eric Byrd Trio Album Release and Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. The Eric Byrd Trio has performed throughout the world and they hold the prestigious honor of a Kennedy Center Jazz Ambassadorship. 7–9pm. $20, $5 suggested donation for live stream. www.barnsofrosehill.org. 540-955-2004.
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Earth Connection Series
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. Learn about wild medicinal plants on a full day five mile hike. Ages 13 and older; register ahead. $127 per person. 9am–4pm. 540-592-3556. www.advancedsurvivaltraining.com.
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McINTOSH & ELDREDGE
Anne McIntosh | REALTOR® 703.509.4499 annewmcintosh@gmail.com
Maria Eldredge | REALTOR® 540.454.3829 maria@middleburgrealestate.com
Civil War Encampment
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Social Bridge Night
Long Branch Historic House and Farm. 830 Long Branch Lane. Millwood. Every Tuesday. Wine, soft drinks and light snacks provided. Limited seating; RSVP. $15 per person. 5–7pm. 540-837-1856.
September
BATTLETOWN AnimAl CliniC Serving the community for over 30 years. 3823 Lord Fairfax Hwy, 1/2 mile north of Berryville
(540) 955-2171
C L A R K E V A . C O M
Early Migrants Bird Walk
Blandy Experimental Farm. 400 Blandy Farm Lane. Boyce. Early September marks the beginning of fall songbird migration. Join Blandy Director and birding enthusiast Dr. Dave Carr in search of southbound warblers, migrating shorebirds, scarlet tanagers, bobolinks and more. Register ahead. 8–10am. 540-837-1758. www.blandy.virginia.edu.
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REAL ESTATE
LEARN MORE AT mcintoshandeldredge.realtor
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Civil War encampment and interact with the 21st Georgia Infantry. 10am–4pm. 540-592-3556. www.virginiastateparks.gov.
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MIDDLEBURG
540-955-3705
Hubby Jenkins Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Hubby Jenkins is a talented multi-instrumentalist who endeavors to share his love and knowledge of old-time American music. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he delves into his southern roots, following the thread of African American history that wove itself through America’s traditional music forms. 7–9pm. $20 in advance, $25 at door. www.barnsofrosehill.org.
Sept 10-25 Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson must crack the mystery of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” before a family curse dooms its newest heir. Can our heroes discover the truth in time? Join the fun and see how far from elementary the truth can be.
winchesterlittletheatre.org • 540-662-3331
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The Farmer’s Forge
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. See members of the Blacksmith Guild of the Potomac show off their skills. 12–3pm. 540-592-3556. skymeadows@dcr.virginia.gov.
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Astronomy for Everyone
Sky Meadows State Park. 11012 Edmonds Lane. Delaplane. Junior astronomer program is followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Bring telescope or binoculars if desired. 8–11pm. Parking fees apply. 540-592-3556. skymeadows@dcr.virginia.gov.
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Trivia Night
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Clarke County Historical Association and Clarke County Library team up once again to bring live team trivia. Categories include History, Movies, Literature, Science and more. Prizes donated by local area businesses. Barn doors open at 6:30p.m., trivia begins at 7pm. Free. 540-955-2004. www.barnsofrosehill.org.
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Social Bridge Night
Long Branch Historic House and Farm. 830 Long Branch Lane. Millwood. Every Tuesday. Wine, soft drinks and light snacks provided. Limited seating; RSVP. $15 per person. 5–7pm. 540-837-1856.
The Fox & Pheasant Antiques • Decor • Interiors • Fabrics
Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10-5 Sunday 12-5 114 East Main Street Boyce, Virginia
540-837-5589
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–11 Patsy Cline Tribute Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Tribute show features local legends Aimee Curl, Jess Eliot Myhre and Melissa Wright. Along with David Van Deventer on fiddle, Jesse Shultzaberger on drums and Dave Hadley on pedal steel, these women will sing the songs that made Patsy Cline a local, national and international legend in the world of country music. 7pm. $20 in advance, $25 at door. 540-955-2004. www.barnsofrosehill.org.
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Stargazing with the Shenandoah Astronomical Society Blandy Experimental Farm. 400 Blandy Farm Lane. Boyce. Members of the Shenandoah Astronomical Society will set
8 up telescopes and guide us as we search the night sky for stars, planets, constellations, galaxies, and more. Register ahead. 7:30pm. 540-837-1758. www.blandy.virginia.edu.
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–12 Round Hill Appalachian Trail Festival
B Chord Brewing. 34266 Williams Gap Rd. Round Hill. Saturday, enjoy live music, trail talks, kids’ activities, food and vendors; and talk with reps from environmental/hiking groups. Sunday, join a native tree ID hike, practice yoga for hikers, cook over the campfire, sketch from nature, pick up first aid and photography tips. At this free, family-friendly, outdoor event, we’ll celebrate the A.T. and other “green spaces” in the area. Saturday 11am–5pm, Sunday 11am–2pm. www.roundhillat.org.
Winchester Gastroenterology Associates (WGA) is excited to announce another new addition, Dr. Rotimi Ayoola. Dr. Ayoola grew up in Marietta, Georgia right outside of Atlanta, but spent most of his adult life in the Washington, DC area. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelors of Science degree in biology. Dr. Ayoola obtained his Medical Degree from the Howard University College of Medicine in DC in 2013. He completed an Internal Medicine residency at Augusta University, formerly known as the Medical College of Georgia. He then worked at New York University Langone Health in the hospitalist scholars program as a clinician-researcher. There he provided hospitalist services delivering evidence-based care, clinical teaching to family and internal medicine residents, and medical students using practice-based learning and value-based medicine. Dr. Ayoola also conducted research on health disparities in hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis C screening that resulted in a number of presentations at national conference and publications in major journals. He recently completed his Gastroenterology and Hepatology fellowship at Howard University Hospital in June 2021. He was chosen as the chief fellow in his final year of training and enjoyed guiding junior fellows and residents. Dr. Ayoola is very excited to be starting his gastroenterology career at WGA in September 2021. He has an interest in health care disparities, colon cancer prevention, inflammatory bowel disease, general gastroenterology and liver diseases. He is board certified in internal medicine and board eligible in gastroenterology and is a member of American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterology Association, American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and American Medical Association. Outside of work, Dr. Ayoola enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, eating new foods, playing/watching sports, exercising, listening to music and trying new things. At WGA, Dr. Ayoola hopes to bring evidence-based patient care while providing compassion, and support to his patients to improve their overall health.
Please call our office at 540-667-1244 to schedule your appointment!
Winchester Gastroenterology Associates 190 Campus Blvd, Suite 300 Winchester, VA 22601
540-667-1244
www.winchestergastro.com
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Sunny War Concert
Barns of Rose Hill. 95 Chalmers Ct. Berryville. Sunny War enlivens traditional folk and blues by freshening her musical attack and writing lyrics that reflect 21st century concerns. 7–9pm. $20 in advance, $25 at door. www.barnsofrosehill.org.
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Social Bridge Night
Long Branch Historic House and Farm. 830 Long Branch Lane. Millwood. Every Tuesday. Wine, soft drinks and light snacks provided. Limited seating; RSVP. $15 per person. 5–7pm. 540-837-1856.
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Legends by Lantern Light: White Post
White Post. Join the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area and Clarke County Historical Association for a lantern lit walking tour through White Post. The evening’s tour will include firsthand accounts of life in the 18th century when Virginia’s only resident English peer, Thomas, 6th Lord Fairfax, lived nearby at Greenway Court. In the decades before the American Revolution, Fairfax brought foxhunting, wealth, and George Washington to the Virginia frontier – all of which continue to shape Clarke County today. 7–9pm. Members $15, nonmembers $20. www.clarkehistory.org.
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–19 Bluemont Fair
Snickersville Turnpike. Bluemont. Old-fashioned family fun with traditional crafts, local art and authors, craft and farming demonstrations, music, children’s fair, animals, wine, food and more. Free parking, ages 10 and older $7, ages 9 and younger free. 540-554-2367. www.bluemontfair.org.
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Legal Structures For Business Where to find information to make the right decision for you By Brenda Waugh Starting a small business raises many issues and questions. An important decision requires selecting the best legal structure or entity for the business. Should the business be a sole proprietorship or a publicly traded corporation, or something else? This determination should be made intentionally, after considering the unique benefits of each structure. Having made the decision, it is often more economical and reliable to use free or low-cost forms provided by governmental agencies rather than online forms. Sole Proprietorships. In a sole proprietorship, there is one owner. The business forms as soon as the owner begins to do business. Profits are taxed as income on personal tax returns. The owner is responsible for all liabilities and debts. A sole proprietorship needs to be registered with the Virginia Department of Taxation. General Partnerships. Most partnerships are “general partnerships” formed when two or more people go into business together and don’t form any other legal
relationship. Like the sole proprietorship, the partners pay taxes on their personal tax returns and may be responsible for any business debts and liabilities. The business must be registered with the State Tax Department. Limited Liability Company (LLC). A limited liability company (LLC) is created by filing documents with the State Corporation Commission (SCC). Unlike the sole proprietorship and general partnership, the business owner is usually not personally liable for the debts or liabilities of the company. For example, if the business incurs liability for negligence, each member’s personal assets are shielded. The LLC’s income is “passed through” to the members of the LLC, who include their income on their personal tax return. The LLC has a registered agent and complies with annual filing requirements. Corporations. A corporation is formed when the entity is registered in its “domestic” state by filing required documentation with the State Corporation Commission. When a business owner cre-
ates a corporation, it is like creating a legal person. The corporation is an entirely independent legal and tax entity. The corporation is owned by shareholders, who are not usually personally liable for the corporation’s actions. The corporation pays taxes on the profits of the company. Some corporations become “public” and sell shares of ownership. Corporations may also be “nonprofit” when created for a charitable purpose. These corporations usually are not taxed. Like the LLC, the corporation has a registered agent and must comply with annual filing requirements. Other structures and entities. Additional legal structures in Virginia that are less common that may be formed through the tax department include a joint venture and association. Additional entities created through the State Corporation Commission Office include a cooperative association, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, professional limited liability company, voluntary association, business trust, and unincorporated nonprofit associations. What’s next? A business own-
er unsure what type of legal entity may be best for their business should consult with an attorney or a certified public accountant. The Virginia Small Business Association provides free services to help in making this decision. Before making the decision or meeting with the professional, the owner may want to consider these questions. What type of management will the company have? How do I want to address liability issues? Do I want to be able to transfer or sell my business quickly? Do I want flexibility in how I finance my business? How do I want operational costs to be managed and paid? How do I want my business to be regulated by internal activity? How do I want to structure my business and personal income taxes? Are you already decided? Many small businesses retain an attorney
when the entity requires a formal structure (such as an LLC or corporation). Others complete the paperwork with guidance from the low-cost, state funded program, Virginia One Stop. (https://bos. sbsd.virginia.gov/). Online forms that require payment do not usually provide benefits over these low-cost state-funded resources, and may sometimes not meet legal requirements. Small business owners can save time and money by selecting the best entity for their business and following the legal requirements to establish that business. For free instructions on how to register with the Department of Taxation: https://www.tax. virginia.gov/sites/default/files/ vatax-pdf/r-1-business-registrationinstructions.pdf. Brenda Waugh is a lawyer/ mediator with Waugh Law & Mediation, serving clients in the Blue Ridge region of Virginia and Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Long Branch Historic House and Farm Presents: "Celebrating Open Spaces in Clarke County"
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We know you dream of living in the country. Farm Credit can help you make it a reality with our financing options for homes with excess acreage. Contact us when you’re ready to own your perfect piece of country.
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An Exhibit of Clarke County Conservation Easement Authority Photo Contest Winners
Through August 31, 2021 Monday thru Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday & Sunday 12 - 4pm Free Admission
For more info please call 540-837-1856
Clarke
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Ridgeway’s Auto Body Provides Quality Service in Berryville By Rebecca Maynard When Clarke Monthly’s own Jennifer Welliver had someone back into her car at Circle K one afternoon, she decided to stop into Ridgeway’s Auto Body at 15 N. Buckmarsh Street to see if she could make an appointment to get an estimate on the damage.
“Tracy came out and took photos and got an estimate to me by morning,” Welliver said. “I really didn’t want the hassle of shopping around, so I was glad to learn that she can handle all communication with the insurance company, who accepted her quote. The
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entire process was a breeze and they even cleaned my car, inside and out! I highly recommend Ridgeway’s.” Tracy and Darren Ridgeway opened Ridgeway’s Auto Body in October 2018. The shop offers a wide range of services with a focus on collision repairs ranging from minor fender benders to major structural repairs. The Ridgeways grew up in Western Loudoun County, so they were no strangers to Clarke County. The Ridgeway family has been in the automotive industry for over 70 years. Darren’s grandfather, Gene Ridgeway, started Ridgeway’s Used Cars in Lovettsville in 1949, and later Darren’s brother
Brett took over the mechanical side of the business and their uncle Mark took over the sales side. “Darren decided to go a different route and take up auto body repair and refinishing, so I like to joke that we have all of our bases covered!” Tracy said. Ridgeway’s works with all insurance companies and on all vehicle makes and models. Their facility has a full service paint shop which allows them to mix and match any factory or custom color utilizing PPG’s Envirobase paint line, a waterbased line which is environmentally friendly as opposed to the traditional chemical based paints. They also do basic
cosmetic repairs such as paint correction, paintless dent removal, headlight restoration and wheel repairs, as well as minor mechanical work such as tire rotation and oil changes. They offer free estimates either in person, or by sending photos via carwise.com. There they can schedule appointments, submit photos for an online estimate and check out reviews. “Shortly after I graduated from college in 2011, I started working with Darren at an auto body shop in Leesburg and later another one in Sterling where I learned everything I needed to know about running a shop, managing the office and technicians, writing estimates, and so much more,” Tracy said. “Darren, Brett and I all saw a need for cosmetic and collision repairs in the Lovettsville area and had been tossing around the idea of adding on to the building in Lovettsville to include auto body repairs, but the amount of remodeling to install the machinery needed would have been a massive undertaking on a 70 year old building,” Tracy said. “When Body Works of Berryville closed and went up for sale with much of the equipment we would have needed already installed, it was kind of a no-brainer. We were still close enough to the family business to refer customers to each other, but far enough away that we could expand our customer base outside of Loudoun County and build our own reputation in another community.” “From the day we started renovations, Berryville has felt like home! “Tracy said. “It has the same feel that Lovettsville and Purcellville had for us growing up. Everyone in Berryville has been so welcoming and encouraging since day one; they see a young couple trying to build a business and
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customer base and genuinely want to see us do well here. “Darren has been in the collision repair industry for almost 20 years, I have been in it for 10, and if there is one thing we have learned and seen consistently, it is that word of mouth is the best form of advertising a business can get,” Tracy said. “In a tight knit community like Berryville, word gets around quick and it can make or break a small business in the beginning. We hit the ground running after opening and have been so busy that we really haven’t had a chance to give back to the community that has welcomed us with open arms as much as we’d like and we’re really looking forward to being able to do so in the future.” “First and foremost, we treat all of our customers and their vehicles the same way we would treat family,” Tracy said. “Some customers are skeptical when it comes to repair shops for one reason or another, be it a bad prior experience, insurance companies using scare tactics to push the business to their network shops, or just false claims that repair shops don’t have the vehicle owner’s best interest in mind. Darren
PPrr o od du u
Tracy and Darren Ridgeway opened Ridgeway’s Auto Body in October 2018.
and I work hard to change that narrative by assuring anyone considering using our shop that we are working for them and will do whatever it takes to get their vehicle back to pre-accident condition. “Being involved in an accident is stressful as it is, so we try to make it as seamless as possible, doing everything from educating our customer on the repair process, dealing with their insurance companies and arranging rental cars (sometimes even personally taking them home when we’re able). In addition to all of that, we have a limited lifetime warranty that covers all of the paint and body repairs done with us, and our technicians are certified by both I-Car and PPG. Once our customers are confident that they are in good hands, delivering a quality
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11 product that we stand behind comes naturally. “At the end of the day, our message is that our customers are the priority. Their trust in us is what keeps our doors open, and we don’t take that lightly, so we will do whatev-
er we can to help them along the way.” Ridgeway’s Auto Body is open Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm and offers 24/7 car drop-off and key drop. Call 540-277-2404.
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Historic Preservation Commission Celebrates 2021 and 2020 Award Recipients By Cathy Kuehner For 22 years, the Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has annually recognized residents who have thoughtfully preserved and maintained historic structures and places that are essential to defining Clarke’s unique cultural identity. Honorees are announced each May — National Preservation Month — then celebrated at an awards luncheon. The global pandemic canceled the 2020 event and delayed the 2021 luncheon. Finally, the HPC welcomed the 2020 and 2021 historic preservation award recipients in late July at Camino Real restaurant in Berryville. The 2021 award recipients are the White Post Village Association, Frank and Luanne Carey, Patricia Corbat, and Dion Bernier. The 2020 award recipients
are Matthew Hannan, Josephine and Steven Fleming, Bill and Anne McIntosh, and Jay Hillerson, who died last August. “It is an honor to recognize the owners of these properties for their investments in preserving Clarke County’s historic built environment,” said Betsy Arnett, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission. “We hope that by recognizing them, we encourage other property owners to preserve and rehabilitate their properties as well. Every building that is saved and brought back to useful life strengthens Clarke County’s historic character.” The White Post Village Association received a Certificate of Merit for the Josephine and Steven Fleming accept a 2020 Certificate of Merit from Historic Preservation Commission chair Betsy rehabilitation of the 1930s-era gas sta- Arnett and vice chair Robin York for their restoration of Goat House atop the mountain on the south side of U.S. 50; tion at the intersection of White Post photo by Clarke Co.
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Christy Dunkle, who was Jay Hillerson’s life partner, accepts the 2020 Historic Preservation Commission “Lifetime Achievement” award from HPC chair Betsy Arnett and vice chair Robin York. Hillerson was recognized by the HPC for his significant contributions — both actions and advice — over many years in order to protect historic resources in Clarke County. Photo by Clarke Co.
and Berrys Ferry roads. The Association was gifted the building in 2017, and members decided to restore the building to replicate its original Sinclair gas station appearance. Then, members raised the considerable funds necessary for the restoration. The project brought a unique structure back from near ruin, and it rallied White Post residents who worked together to create a point of pride for their village. Frank and Luanne Carey received a Certificate of Merit for the rehabilitation of the circa-1900 house at 8 E. Main Street in Boyce. The frame house is considered the town’s best example of the Queen Anne style, and the Careys meticulously renovated the large dwelling while maintaining its historic character and ensuring its preservation for decades to come, A 2021 Certificate of Merit was also presented to Patricia Corbat for the rehabilitation of 41 Lanham Lane near Old Chapel. Corbett purchased the long-neglected, large, Victorian frame dwelling in 2018. She rehabilitated the house, bringing it up to modern standards while not negatively affecting its historic integrity. Historically known as the “Isham House,” it sits in a prominent location and now enhances a historic area of Clarke County. Dion Bernier also received a 2021 “Certificate of Merit” for the rehabilitation of 27 Old Waterloo Road in Boyce. Bernier purchased the abandoned property in 2018, and he sensitively rehabilitated the early 1900s house, bringing it back to life. The
rehabilitation illustrates how historic buildings are often well-built and in sound condition and should be restored rather than demolished. Matthew Hannan received a 2020 Certificate of Merit for the rehabilitation of 1682 Millwood Rd. in Millwood and the Love and Charity Chapel that sits nearby. When he purchased the property in 2013, the circa 1910 house had been vacant for more than a decade. Hannan rehabilitated the house to meet modern standards while retaining all its integrity, including exterior treatments, windows, interior trim, and woodwork. In 2017, he purchased the former Love and Charity Chapel. It, too, had been vacant for several years and was on the verge of collapse because of water damage and benign neglect. Built around 1907 as an African-American Baptist church, it was later used as a dance hall, and then again as a church. Hannan removed inappropriate alterations and returned the chapel to its former glory. He plans to invite the Millwood community to use the space for events as needed. Josephine and Steven Fleming were awarded a Certificate of Merit in 2020 for the rehabilitation of 169 John Mosby Highway in Boyce, a property they purchased in 2016. Commonly referred to as the Goat House, the Flemings have sensitively restored one of Clarke County’s most iconic houses. Located at Ashby’s Gap on the south side of U.S. 50, the house was built in 1790 and enlarged in 1800. The one-and-a-half story log dwelling with its low profile, integral front porch, and exterior-end
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Historic Preservation Commission vice chair Robin York and chair Betsy Arnett present a 2021 “Certificate of Merit” to Frank and Luanne Carey, who rehabilitated a circa-1900 Queen Anne style home on Boyce’s Main Street. Photo by Clarke Co.
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Patricia Corbat, who restored a long-neglected Victorian frame dwelling at Old Chapel, accepts a 2021 “Certificate of Merit” from Historic Preservation Commission vice chair Robin York and chair Betsy Arnett. Photo by Clarke Co.
stone chimneys is typical of 18th century vernacular log houses of the region. The Flemings have meticulously renovated the house while maintaining its historic character. A 2020 Certificate of Merit was presented to Bill and Anne McIntosh for the rehabilitation of 997 Bishop Meade Road in Millwood. Commonly known as the Hummer House, the dwell-
ing had not been updated in many years and required a lot of work when the McIntoshes bought it in 2017. Through careful planning and research, they rehabilitated the late-19th century, vernacular log-andframe dwelling and brought it up to modern standards while not negatively affecting its historic integrity. The HPC presented a Lifetime
Achievement last year to Jay Hillerson, who had for decades been involved with historic buildings in Clarke County. As founder and longtime owner of Clarke County Roofing and Guttering, he worked on some of the most historically significant buildings in the region, and he renovated several historic buildings of his own. Hillerson also provided the Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission with invaluable assistance on many of its preservation projects over the years. Hillerson, who died of cancer Aug. 25, 2020, was honored for his significant contributions — both actions and advice — over many years in order to protect historic resources in Clarke County. “When people hear the term ‘historic preservation,’ they too often think only of big, grand houses such as Carter Hall, Fairfield, or Saratoga,” said Arnett. “While those houses are important, it is the modest homes, churches, schools, and commercial buildings that reflect the history of most people in Clarke County.” Arnett continued, “By recognizing people who have restored these modest buildings, we are acknowledging that these places are important and worthy of saving and, by doing so, we hope to encourage others to do the same.”
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ACFF Invites Youth to Enter Video Contest, Win Cash Prizes: September 1 Deadline. The American Conservation “We are thrilled to provide Film Festival invites young this contest to students, espepeople ages 5 to 18 to cre- cially during a time when young ate and submit a short video people are taking a stand on iscapturing what conservation sues that are directly affecting and their relationship to na- them, and the environment is ture and the world means top among those issues. to them. Contest categories are awarded by age group, group project and grand prize. The winner of each category is awarded a $100 prize, and a grand prize winner may be awarded Inviting yo ut $250! The primary criteria submit a sh h ages 5 to 18 to #NextG ort video ab enCap what the tureC environme out onser nt And nature me by which the videos are vation ans to them . judged is the strength of their message on appreGRAND PRIZ ciating and protecting $250 CASHE:! SUBMISSION DEADLINE: the environment. SEPT 1, 2021 Students may use phones, tablets, or cameras to create their video and it can be documentary, animaconservation filmfest.org tion, narrative, or music video and must have been produced sometime in the last year. Topics may range from address- We are proud to ing issues such as recycling provide a platform for them to and climate change to gardens be heard,” said Jennifer Lee, exfor pollinators and wildlife ecutive director of the Ameriappreciation – the sky’s the can Conservation Film Festival. limit! (See past entries here: All entries will be included https://vimeo.com/groups/ on ACFF’s dedicated Vimeo nextgencapture). channel and winning videos Selected videos will be featur dedicated ed on AC Vimeo cha FF’s nnel, the social me website, dia sites, and possib Festival itse ly at the lf.
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Community Dispatch
The Red Wagon ‘Diapers The Need’ By Jody Steohenson The principle of stewardship is when faith, works, and community intersect, or become one. This unity is the theme of The Red Wagon Ministry’s mission statement: To share the love of God, by providing disposable baby and adult hygiene products to low and reduced income families. Through the principle of good stewardship we endeavor to disperse the blessing supplied to our organization with the local community. The Red Wagon Ministry, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was formed to meet a pressing need for many families with small children who are struggling financially. In 2008, with the use of a red wagon, the ministry helped to “diaper the need” by collecting and donat-
ing 10,000 baby diapers to Congregational Community Action Project. Today, supported by an all-volunteer staff, it has distributed nearly 1.25 million donated baby diapers, adult briefs/ underwear, and incontinence pads. The majority of these products are donated through the generosity of those living, working, and worshiping within the community. Without a physical facility, the ministry does not assist individuals directly, but partners with other agencies. Through this method of distribution, it has reduced overhead expenses allowing the use of most monetary funding to purchase requested basic necessities when donations lessen. Several local organizations who are currently
aided by the ministry are FISH of Clarke County, Shenandoah Area Agency on Aging, SAAA, located in Clarke County, Congregational Community Action Project, CCAP, Highland Food Pantry, and Olive Branch Food Pantry, an outreach ministry of Victory Church. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the number of individuals living on fixed incomes has increased. Having to purchase necessities like incontinence products can be a financial burden. To assist with this need, in May of 2013, the ministry amended its Articles of Incorporation to provide adults wearing disposable underwear and incontinence pads with these products. Those once home bound can now resume active
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lifestyles with less worry of an unfortunate accident. CCAP’s Baby and Toddler Room, founded by the ministry nearly seven years ago, helps those living in Winchester and Frederick County with clothing, diapers/wipes, baby accessories, and books. For a family with young children, the cost of diapers is the fourth largest expense after rent, food, and utilities. The average price of a store-brand diaper is approximately $50–60 monthly per child; neither WIC nor SNAP nutrition programs cover diapers. Although the ministry is no longer volunteering in the Room on a daily basis, we continue to support the effort to “diaper the need” through diaper events. The ministry recently formed
a joint venture with the new cookie shop, The Sweet Elephant Cookie Shop, located in Berryville. For the ministry, owner Lauren Connolly creates weekly a nutritious breakfast bar filled with wholesome ingredients. The packaged bars displaying the “diaper the need” slogan stickers are showcased in a small red wagon for customers to purchase. The collaborative effort in this partnership is to further the endeavor to raise diaper awareness. A sufficient amount of diapers promotes a safe and nurturing environment for babies and eases financial burdens for parents. To donate or learn more about The Red Wagon Ministries, email theredwagonministry@gmail.com.