Lake Life Kerr Lake

LAKE LIFE

YOUR GUIDE TO KERR LAKE, BUGGS ISLAND & THE SURROUNDING AREAS

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EDITOR

Jami Snead

PHOTOGRAPHY

Luci Weldon, Alina Moody, Jami Snead

WRITERS

Luci Weldon, Alina Moody, Jami Snead, Tim Griffin

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Kerr Lake Lake Life Magazine is published throughout the year by Womack Publishing Company, the publisher of The News Progress and Warren Record.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

The News Progress • 914 W. Danville Street • South Hill The Warren Record • 112 N. Main Street • Warrenton

PUBLISHED BY WOMACK PUBLISHING COMPANY ©2022

Cover & Index images by Alina Moody

KERR LAKE BUGG ISLAND

LAKE LIFE

ISSUE ONE 2023

CONTENTS

Bassmasters

Buggs Island Lake

Camping Essentials 101

Escape Games

Peanut & Zelb’s

Baldwin House Hobbies

8 Best Hiking Trails

Dining along Buggs Island Lake

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS

Send in your scenic photos of the Kerr Lake, Buggs Island area for a chance to be published in Lake Life magazine and News Progress newspaper. Email quality photos at less than 10mb to Alina Moody at news@thenewsprogress.com. Please include name of person who took the photo and where and when the photo was taken.

SNAPSHOTS KERR LAKE • BUGGS ISLAND

Photo by Alina Moody

Photo by Alina Moody

Photo by Jami Snead

103 Russell Street Clarksville, Virginia 434.374.2560 akdockservice.com

A & K Dock Service is a quality and customer service driven company that will meet and exceed all of your docking needs. We are a US Army Corps of Engineers approved dock builder and can help provide you with information on the dock permitting process. We have complete dock systems on display for you to help with your decision making in finding the right type of dock for your needs.

Wahoo Boat Docks

Dock Gangways

Dock Accessories

HydoHoist Boat Lifts

Photo by Alina Moody

Photo by Jami Snead

Photo by Alina Moody

Photos by Alina Moody

TAKING OVER BUGGS ISLAND LAKE

BASSMASTERS

STORY BY ALINA MOODY

Buggs Island Lake was taken over this past week by fisherman aiming for the top spot of the 2023 Division 3 Bassmaster Open. 222 pro-angler fisherman competed over the three day event; the top forty proanglers received a portion of the over $286,000 cash prize. A little over $63,000 was split by the top 40 co-anglers.

The anglers had about six hours to fish between takeoff at 6:30a.m. and weigh-in at 2:30p.m. each day of the tournament. Pro-anglers were given a catch limit of five bass each of the three days, while co-anglers were capped

at three both days of their competition. Only Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted, Redeye or Shoal bass counted towards weight totals. Fishermen would receive penalties for fish with fin clips attached, fish returned after reaching capacity, and fish that did not meet the official length.

Winds during the day and colder weather the night before day one of the three-day tournament—Wednesday, May 3— prevented anglers from catching as much as they had hoped on opening day. A majority of the bags weighed on day one landed between 10 and 13 pounds.

Nonetheless, Scotland Neck, NC native and pro-angler Powell Kemp took the lead on day one with a total of 19

Shown above, Anglers gather at Occoneechee State Park’s dock for Sunday’s final weigh-in.

pounds and 8 ounces. His bag trumped day one’s second place angler—Brad Knight’s—by three pounds.

On the co-anglers side, Alex Watts of Salem, VA lead day one with a total of 10 pounds and 13 ounces. Watts had an eight ounce margin over second place co-angler David Deciucis.

The wind calmed down on day two of the tournament, which gave the anglers some relief. Powell Kemp kept his lead on day two after securing 16 pounds and 12 ounces of fish. New York pro-angler Casey Smith who had placed 35 on day one—overtook Brad Knight’s second spot on day two after catching a total of 16 pounds and 4 ounces.

Co-angler Alex Watts maintained his spot in first and won the co-angler’s tournament after catching a total of 8 pounds and 6 ounces on day two. Lexington, NC native Jerry Bono placed second in the co-anglers tournament with 15 pounds and 13 ounces: 3 pounds and 6 ounces less than Watts. Watts took home the top co-angler prize of $18,361.

Powell Kemp kept his lead and won the pro-angler tournament after catching a bag of 12 pounds and 9 ounces on Friday. Kemp caught a total weight of 48 pounds and 13 ounces giving him a lead of 3 pounds and 2 ounces over second place winner David Williams. Kemp lucky streak

began on day one when he caught the tournament’s largest bass which totaled 5 pounds and 13 ounces alone. At the end of the final day, Kemp took home the grand prize of $52,000 and earned himself a spot in the 2024 Academy Sports and Outdoors Bassmaster Classic which will take place March 22-24, 2024 in Tulsa, Okla.

David Williams had a slow start to the tournament, no doubt affected by the poor weather on the first day. On day one, he pulled in a total of 11 pounds. Williams—like many others—finished day two with a much higher bag of 17 pounds. Williams then managed to bag another 17 pounds and 6 ounces on the final day putting him at a total of 45 pounds and 11 ounces.

Overall, Mecklenburg County Tourism hosted a great Open with a great turnout. Special shout outs go to all of the volunteers; the shuttle team at Integrity Real Estate who ran on day one and two to bring the anglers to Occoneechee State Park; as well as the Mecklenburg County Youth Bassmasters and Mecklenburg High School Anglers who assisted with the weigh-ins and returned all the bass to the lake.•

Various fishermen cruise around Buggs Island Lake during the 2023 Division 3 Bassmaster Open.

Photo by Alina Moody

SPEND A DAY AROUND THE LAKE

BUGGS ISLAND LAKE

STORY BY JAMI SNEAD

Planning a trip to Buggs Island Lake? One thing is for certain; there is no shortage of things to do and places to see. From Native American history to breath taking gardens, Mecklenburg County has plenty to offer its visitors. Here are a few tips for when you are in the mood to take a break from camping or boating.

Begin your day with breakfast at The Bobbin Cork. Try the highly recommended Cowboy Special, which comes with a western omelet, bacon and cheddar grits, fruit, and toast prepared to order.

Enjoy the local shops along Virginia Avenue in Clarksville. The quaint downtown area overlooks the lake and offers amazing views. The Virginia Avenue Mall is a great place to find trinkets, antiques, books, and so much more. Enjoy work by local artist at the Galleria on the Lake, a place to find “fun, funky, and functional art”. Continue your shopping experience at Grandfather’s Country Creations, which is a great spot to discover unique antiques, nautical and lake décor, candles, jams and jellies, pottery, and furniture.

Wrap your morning shopping with a patio lunch at a local favorite restaurant, Cooper’s Landing. The cozy bed and breakfast was originally built in 1830 and now serves as a four-season destination serving fresh farm to table meals.

Next, take a short drive to visit MacCallum More Museum and Gardens. MacCallum More sits nestled amidst the natural flora and fauna on Hudgins Street and is considered Chase City’s hidden gem.

Lucy M. Hudgins, wife to Edward W. Hudgins—former Chief Justice of the Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, established the gardens in 1929. The gardens have since been cultivated by three generations to become the beauty they are today.

On your way back to Clarksville, stop by the historic Prestwould Plantation, home to Sir Peyton and Lady Jean Skipwith. Many of the original buildings are still in tact as well as Lady Jean’s immaculate garden. The plantation complex includes eight buildings, all built before 1830 and most dating back to the 1780s.

Visit Occoneechee State Park to learn the rich history of the Native American Indians who once resided in the area on the Roanoke and Staunton Rivers. The Occoneechee called the area surrounding Clarksville home from the mid-1200s until Virginia settlers attacked their village in 1676, killing at least 300 Occoneechee and forcing the surviving Indians to settle further south in North Carolina.

Finish your day trip with a refreshing beverage from Buggs Island Brewing Company located at 101 2nd Street in Clarksville. “The BIB Story started with a couple of friends who enjoyed beer and began experimenting with home brewing. These friends found out that they enjoyed brewing, and soon discovered that they could make a good brew. They expanded their skills, along with their palates, and over the last several years developed the recipes that served as the foundation for Buggs Island Brewery’s Flagship brews.” Enjoy the perfect end to your day with drinking, good food, and a garden view •.

Virginia Avenue Mall

MacCallum More Museum

Prestwould Plantation

Occoneechee State Park

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BE LAKE READY!

CAMPING ESSENTIALS 101

STORY BY TIM GRIFFIN

Everyone has fond memories of camping, whether it is a night of roasting marshmallows, telling ghost stories, or staring at the star but nothing can ruin a fun camping trip faster than the “UhOh” moment when you realize you’re at the lake without the right supplies. Here is a list of things that can sometimes be easily forgotten to ensure your camping trip is both successful and fun!

You can always need to be prepared for some form of ailment. When out in the woods you won’t find a corner store to supply your painkillers or bandages, there are multiple options that can be purchased or you can always build a DIY first aid kit.

Lets face it, the mosquito’s and mayflies in the south are of a special breed. Save yourself a lot of pain and aggravation and pack a good quality insect repellent.

No matter the heat, when the sun goes down and the insects mentioned above come out, you’re going to want a fire. Make sure to bring plenty of firewood for this. And of course, you’re going to want s’mores and hot dogs!

Sunburn Hurts. Bad. Bring a good quality sunscreen and make sure the whole family has some form of SPF protection to beat the sun. Swimming should also be brought into consideration and waterproof sunscreen can be bought.

You can always need to be prepared for some form of ailment. When out in the woods you won’t find a corner store to supply your painkillers or bandages, there are multiple options that can be purchased or you can always build a DIY first aid kit.

There are so many more things that are essentials to camping. Make a list, check it twice, and check it one more time before you go. Most importantly remember to have fun, make memories, and enjoy the great outdoors! •

2. BUG REPELLENT

1. FIRST AID KIT

3. FIREWOOD

4. SUNSCREEN

5. CAMPING CHAIRS

BRINGING EXCITEMENT OF ESCAPE ROOMS TO WARREN COUNTY

ESCAPE GAMES

STORY BY LUCI WELDON

Not long ago, local escape room enthusiasts had to travel well out of the area to participate in their favorite pastime. That changed in 2022 when mother and son duo Flynne Meares and Jalen Wellington opened Escape Games Warrenton in the Taylor Building downtown.

What is an escape room? The best way to describe it might be as an experience in which a group of people work together to solve a series of puzzles to reach a goal. Through Escape Games Warrenton, Meares and Wellington want to provide challenges that people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy, from escape room beginners to enthusiasts like them.

They come to the escape room business from different backgrounds. Meares brings an undergraduate educational background in English and Geography, and a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Organizational Health. Wellington was taking robotics certification and games courses when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. His background also includes culinary training.

Meares and her family claim a strong connection to Warren County. Her life took her as far away as Costa Rica and Indonesia, but her ties to the local community remained tight. Around 2015, Meares and Wellington returned to Warren County on a permanent basis.

In January 2020, they experienced their first escape room in

Wake Forest and loved it. Meares and Wellington wondered if they could open something similar. They had thought about operating a food truck, but decided to opt for an escape room business.

“This is way more fun,” Wellington said.

He and his mother talked to people who operated escape rooms, conducted research and attended Recon, the annual conference for the industry. After this process and beta testing their first room, they were ready to open Escape Games Warrenton in July 2022 with The Lost Tomb, recommended for ages 10 through adult. The storyline for this room follows a character known as “The Professor,” who discovers a lost tomb and then disappears before sharing his findings. Players must discover what happened to The Professor in 60 minutes or less. Four to six players are recommended for this room. So far, it has a success rate of 30 percent for solving it in 60 minutes or less.

Escape Games Warrenton aims to design rooms that people of a wide range of ages can enjoy. A good example is the holidaythemed Christmas room added late last year. It was so popular that it remained open through the middle of March. This room featured a storyline that centered once again on The Professor. This time, he traveled to help Santa, who had a broken GPS. The room was recommended for children as young as 5, but teens and adults loved it as well.

Most people who visit Escape Games Warrenton are age 40 and older. Meares and Wellington have seen plenty of families, especially

at the Christmas room. Senior citizens join in the fun, too. That’s why the mother and son duo opened their business — so that people of all ages could have fun.

“It makes you happy,” Meares said of the activities related to solving puzzles.

Participants come from all over Warren County and the surrounding area, and others stop by while visiting the lake or traveling through Warren County. Some people have come from as far away as the Triangle, Asheville and Washington, D.C.

To solve an escape room, participants must complete tasks, such as using clues to find an object hidden in the room, translating a made-up language, decoding a cipher, solving a math problem to find an equation, and other challenges.

Mears and Wellington offer to provide hints if participants need them.

Escape Games Warrenton plans to bring in new challenges with different themes from time to time. Escape rooms take time to build, though. It took Meares and Wellington between six and nine months to build their first room. The Christmas room took much less time, about a couple of months.

Meares and Wellington use a variety of materials as props or decorations for each room — including a few additions from their shed and home. The mechanics of each room also take time to install and test. Each room must be wired and programmed so that doors, switches, levers and everything else works as it should as participants uncover clues and solve problems.

Right now, Wellington has a list of 50 theme ideas for future rooms, such as a bayou, “Star Wars,” “Star Trek,” a fairyland, a blanket fort and many more. Movies, TV shows and imagination provide the inspiration.

“The theme is the start,” Wellington said. “We make up stories and puzzles around them.”

The next idea in the works is a “Back to the Future” time-travel themed room.

Meares and Wellington are exploring options for creating mobile escape rooms that can travel to other locations. The Lost Tomb might be perfect for that, they think.

The mother and son duo continue to develop ideas for future rooms that people of all ages will enjoy — and to continue to share their love of the these interactive puzzles with everyone.

Escape Games Warrenton, located at 130 N. Main St. (Suite 4), Warrenton, in the Taylor Building, is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons with start times between 1 and 6:30 p.m. Book a game at least two hours in advance by going to www. EscapeGamesWarrenton.com. A room may also be booked for special events, such as birthdays or for special group activities. For more information, or to arrange a game outside regular hours, email escapegameswarrentonnc@gmail.com. •

Jalen Wellington and Flynne Meares introduce the character, “The Professor,” in the escape room, The Lost Tomb. In the storyline for the room, The Professor discovers a lost tomb, but disappears before sharing his findings.

Photo by Luci Weldon.

PRODUCE MARKET REFLECTS ‘LEGACY OF FAMILY AND FOOD’

PEANUT & ZELB’S

STORY BY LUCI WELDON

Husband and wife team Demetrius Hunter and LaTonya AndrewsHunter are bringing what they refer to as “a legacy of family and food” to the community through Peanut & Zelb’s Produce Market, located at 137 Hyco St., Norlina.

The idea for the combination grocery store, smoothie and juice bar developed as a way to address needs that impact both rural areas and urban communities: lack of access to fresh, locally grown and raised foods, and challenges that farmers, especially minority farmers, face in

finding markets for their products.

As they work to address these needs, Demetrius and LaTonya are carrying on the example and legacy of the Hunter and Andrews families.

The Hunter family comes from Johnston and Wake counties, and Demetrius is a Raleigh native. His father, Zelb Hunter, an agrigator, brought produce to Johnston and Wake counties by mule and cart. As Demetrius worked with his father, he observed challenges that communities face related to access to fresh, locally grown foods.

“His father, Zelb Hunter, passed the baton of food access to Demetrius, especially seniors and others who lack access

to transportation,” LaTonya said.

She is a Warren County native. The Andrews family comes from Norlina, where they maintained a family farm. LaTonya’s mother, Carolyn “Peanut” Andrews was an educator and community advocate. After Demetrius and Latonya married, they moved to Warren County, where they own the Andrews family farm.

One might not think that predominantly rural Warren County would have something in common with Wake County. However, Demetrius and LaTonya would say that communities in both areas face challenges related to food access, especially lack of transportation. They opened The Black Farmers Hub in southeast Raleigh as a way to bring fresh, locally grown and raised food to community residents and to build partnerships with area farmers who may face challenges in developing markets for their products.

After moving to Warren County, Demetrius and LaTonya saw that residents of their new community faced many of the same challenges. They began a farm stand at their Norlina farm, but realized that greater community access was needed.

That — and their family heritage — formed the inspiration for Peanut & Zelb’s Produce Market on Norlina’s Hyco Street, next to Norlina Town Hall.

The backbone of the market centers around fresh, nutritious produce and meats. In addition, Demetrius and LaTonya envision the market as offering a blend of staple foods and specialty items. Along with the produce, meats, cheeses and eggs, there will be other items such as sea moss

and elderberry.

In addition, the market will offer a café area where customers can sit and relax with family and friends. A selection of cold, pressed juices will be available, along with coffees and teas.

Peanut & Zelb’s Produce Market will feature products grown and raised by area farmers. Current partnerships include farms in Warren, Halifax and Granville counties.

The community had the opportunity to see the variety of products that will be offered during a soft opening in March and grand opening in April. The selection included collard greens, mustard greens, potatoes, onion, sweet potatoes, cabbage, meats, local honey, breads, Gullah grits, dry goods, very vegan cheesecake, Sweet Delights baked goods, Nature’s 360 spiced apple ciders, Muscadine and Scuppernong juice drinks, and more.

In the future, Demetrius and LaTonya hope to offer community events to help people learn more about the products offered, tastings, and programs by nutritionists who will demonstrate how to prepare nutritious meals using the products. In addition, the couple hopes to offer an event focusing on black farmers in the community who face challenges in developing markets for their products, such as funding, technology or bringing their items to market.

Peanut & Zelb’s Produce Market, located at 137 Hyco St., Norlina, is open from noon until 6 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Husband and wife business team Demetrius Hunter and LaTonya Andrews-Hunter watch as daughter Nuuri prepares to cut the ribbon, marking the official opening of Peanut & Zelb’s Produce Market in Norlina. The early April chilly, rainy weather didn’t dampen the excitement as elected officials, representatives of multiple businesses and organizations, and community residents gathered to celebrate the market, which offers produce and meats from area farmers, along with juices and more.

Photos by Luci Weldon

HOBBYISTS OPEN GAME & HOBBY SHOP FOR ALL AGES

BALDWIN HOUSE HOBBIES

STORY BY ALINA MOODY

Tim and Leila Baldwin turned their sevenyear dream project into reality by opening a family-friendly game and hobbies shop on Virginia Avenue. The couple hails from Raleigh where the area is saturated with similar shops, so opening one themselves wasn’t practical. However, they knew that Clarksville could always use another family-friendly storefront and event space.

Baldwin House Hobbies hosts a variety of merchandise including but not limited to some classic board games like Monopoly; newage board and card games; tabletop game supplies; plastic models; RC cars, boats, and planes; Gundams; Funko pops; Magic the

Gathering cards; and Pokemon cards.Tim Baldwin lovingly refers to the shop as, “a menagerie of nerdom!”

For $5 per person, guests can come in and play any one of the games in their library all day long. Their library for play includes games for the littles, classic board games, new-age board games, some more obscure games, miniature games, party games, and some adult-only party games.

“We wanted to make it easy for everybody to just come in, enjoy themselves, and relax and get off the video games,” Tim says.

The store also hosts weekly events; each day of the week is geared towards one game or another, but guests may also play any other game they want. Mondays are designated ‘Monster Mondays’ for Dungeons & Dragons and living card games. Tuesdays are Star

Wars X-Wing and Armada games nights. Wednesdays are ‘War Cry Wednesdays!’ for Warhammer, Legion, and other tabletop war games. Thursdays typically host special events each week which are announced on their Facebook. And Fridays are Magic the Gathering nights, but once a month will be changed to Family Fun Night. They will also sometimes host larger events such as tournaments on Saturdays.

The shop—located at 312 Virginia Avenue in Clarksville—is open seven days a week; their hours are as follows: Mondays through Thursdays from 10a.m. to 8p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 10a.m. to 10p.m., and Sundays from 1p.m. to 6p.m.

Customers can rely on their Facebook page—Baldwin House Hobbies—for any hours changes, event announcements, or any other important information. Customers may also contact them by calling (434) 362-0595 or emailing them at baldwinhousehobbies@ gmail.com.

They also have a website at https://baldwinhousehobbies.com and a Youtube by the same name as the Facebook page where Tim posts hobby videos flying RC planes and the like.

Tim also shared that they have a Patreon that isn’t live yet, but will be going live soon. Any money made on the Patreon will go towards upgrades for the store, merchandise, and their public game library. A link to their Patreon can be found on their Facebook page and website. •

Shown on opposite page, a glance inside of Baldwin’s House Hobbies displaying some of their models for sale. Pictured above, kids gather around a table to play in a Beyblade Tournament hosted on a Saturday. The tournament had a surprisingly large turnout with kids of all ages excited to play!

BEST HIKING TRAILS IN THE SOUTHSIDE AREA

STORY BY JAMI SNEAD

1.The Tobacco Heritage Trail- Boydton Section

There are trailheads on either end of the Boydton section of the Tobacco Heritage Trail, with one being located on Washington Street and the other on Prison Road. The Washington Street trailhead is the larger of the two and can better accommodate those pulling trailers. This one-mile trail is a relatively easy hike as the overhead tree canopy shades most of the trail. Be sure to visit The Boyd Tavern, a National Historic Landmark, while in town. It is a very short walk from the trailhead on Washington Street.

2.Tobacco Heritage Trail- Chase City to South Hill

This on-road section of Mecklenburg’s Tobacco Heritage Trail is ideal for experienced cyclists. Park at MacCallum More Museum and Gardens in Chase City to start your adventure. This site is listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Historic Register. Be sure to schedule time to browse the museum and gift shop or wander through the gardens and capture photos of sculptures and native wildflowers. Other historical sites around Chase City are Shadow Lawn, a 19th century house which is considered Chase City’s “key landmark structure” and St. James Episcopal Church, a woodframed church at 338 E. Fourth Street. Travel on bicycle east towards South Hill along Route 47. This route has been designated a Virginia Scenic Byway. Along this route, cyclists will get to experience the natural scenic landscapes of Southern Virginia rural life. Large expanses of farmland dotted with bales of hay, historic homes good for front porch sitting, and tall shade trees display a sense of the Virginian way of life. You will enter South Hill by way of Plank Road. Trail users may want to visit the Chase City Chamber of Commerce lead by Executive Director Tina Wood and located a short distance away at 201 S. Mecklenburg Avenue. This old train depot building features a Train Museum and a genuine antique red caboose. Long distance cyclists may continue on Goodes Ferry Rd to the town of La Crosse where the trail stretches east to Brunswick County.

3.Liberty Hill Hiking Trail

This interpretive 1.25-mile trail near the John H. Kerr dam offers views of the dam and often bald eagles and osprey. A self-guided interpretive trail offers much information about early settlers to the area. This is a moderate to easy trail with a mild elevation change. Liberty Hill offers great views of John H. Kerr dam, 4th largest dam in the United States.

4.Panhandle Trail- Occoneechee State Park

The Panhandle Multi-Use Trail located in Occoneechee State Park is a 15-mile round-trip trail, with an additional 1-mile spur trail located approximately 3/4 of a mile into the hike. This very secluded hike is along a long peninsula jutting into Kerr Lake, and is very lightly traveled. There are many opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Hunting is allowed in-season with a VA hunting license, and fishing allowed year-round with either a VA or NC fishing license.

5.Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail - Staunton River Loop

This multi-county trail begins in Mecklenburg and meanders into Halifax County with five of the 10 sites on this loop. This great river

has played its part in Virginia’s history, providing inspiring views to Patrick Henry from his home in Red Hill, and providing a barrier for Union and Confederate soldiers to clash over at the Staunton River Battlefield. Throughout its course, the river hosts wildlife in profusion. Along its route are numerous small parks and convenient boat landings that facilitate canoe access to the river.

6.Beaver Pond Creek Hiking Trail

This trail offers free access to a local wilderness area with several miles of hardened surfaces for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Lakefront views are abundant and rare elevated hills offer great views of Buggs Island Lake, the largest lake in Virginia. Please note: trails are clear but unmarked - please take a GPS device or map with you.

7.Tobacco Heritage Trail -South Hill to La Crosse

This 5-mile connection between South Hill and La Crosse is winding and hilly. There is beautiful countryside filled with trees and pastures to enjoy, but this on-road route is best for experienced cyclists. Even though there is not an official trailhead for the town of South Hill, there is plenty to see and experience. If you want to begin your trail journey in South Hill, you are welcome to park in the downtown Market Square parking lot on South Mecklenburg Avenue, Sunday-Friday. Saturdays, the Market Square is home to the Farmers Market and parking is available across the street at the public library. Then travel on Goodes Ferry Rd towards the town of La Crosse. The Farmers Market is one of those experiences worth checking out. Some of the things you may see is seasonal produce, home baked goods, gourd art, hand-sewn items, and even a local beekeeper and his honey. While in South Hill make sure to visit the Tobacco Farm Life Museum of Virginia on 306 W. Main Street / (434) 447-2551. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM – 4PM. They have an interesting film depicting tobacco farming history and modern technology and two floors of farming equipment, artifacts and photographs, as well as a tobacco barn that visitors may tour on the outside of the museum. Trail users may also want to visit the Chamber of Commerce building located a short distance away at 201 S. Mecklenburg Avenue. This old train depot building features the Doll & Train Museums and an antique red caboose!

8.Tobacco Heritage Trail- Brunswick County Trailhead

You don’t need a passport to enjoy an excursion on the Tobacco Heritage Trail in Brunswick County. Surrounded by unspoiled woods, tobacco farms that have been passed from one generation to the next, and friendly little towns, the Tobacco Heritage Trail is the path to your outdoor recreation and relaxation. Explore the natural environment found on this Southern Virginia rail-trail on foot, bicycle, or horse and journey back to the history and culture of a simpler time. This trail is your trail; come on in and make yourself at home.

Source: visitmeckva.org and tobaccoheritagetrail.org

Photo by Alina Moody

JOHN H KERR RESERVOIR, US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS (USACE), UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

John H Kerr Reservoir and the surrounding federal property are under the stewardship of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Some areas are leased to state and local governments and other organizations for management. Operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as drones or remote control aircraft, may be authorized in the Hobby/Recreational Flight Areas and Permit Only Areas as specified below.

Unauthorized operation of UAS is a violation of Title 36 CFR 327.4 Aircraft and/or 327.12 Restrictions.

Hobby/Recreational UAS Flight Areas: No permit required for individuals operating hobby/recreational UAS. All land and water areas not designated as permit only areas and no fly zones are included. A USACE special use permit is required for group activities and special events.

UAS No Fly Zone: UAS are prohibited. Areas around Kerr Dam and Island Creek Dam, and the designated seaplane landing areas are UAS No Fly Zones.

UAS Permit Only Areas: A permit is required for UAS operations. Contact the managing agency for the area regarding permit requirements.

All USACE Recreation Areas and all lease areas are permit only areas. The UAS permit only area extends 100 yards (300 feet) from the shoreline. Hobby/Recreational UAS operations by individuals will not be authorized in UAS permit only areas at Kerr Lake.

Commercial UAS Operations at any location on government property at Kerr Lake require a permit from the USACE Operations Project Manager.

Flowage Easements - These areas are private property on which the government has purchased the right to impound water from the lake. Entry onto private property requires authorization from the property owner.

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UAS engaged on official business of Federal, state or local governments or law enforcement agencies; or used in response to emergencies threatening human life or serious property loss may be operated on government property without prior USACE authorization. Whenever possible the government entity, law enforcement, or emergency responders should provide prior notification and/or an after action report to the Operations Project Manager.

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For more information, please contact the USACE and/or the agency managing the area.

Contacts:

- USACE: 434-738-6143

- North Carolina State Recreation Areas, NC Division of Parks and Recreation (NCDPR): 252-438-7791

- NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) Game Lands: 919-733-3391

- Occoneechee State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (VDCR): 434-374-2210

- Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF): 434-525-7522

Halifax

Charlotte

UAS Hobby/Recreational Flight Area

UAS No Fly Zone

UAS Permit Only Areas

USACE Recreation Areas - permit only

VDCR Occoneechee State Park - permit only

NCWRC Game Lands - permit only

NC State Parks Recreation Areas - permit only

Other Leased Areas - permit only

Flowage Easement

Granville

Stauton View Landing

Grassy Creek Park

Island Creek Park

Bluestone Landing

Buffalo Landing

Buffalo Springs Park

Longwood Park

Island Creek Dam

North Bend Park

Rudds Creek Park

Eastland Creek Landing

Eagle Point Landing

Palmer Point Park

Ivy Hill Park

Tailrace Park Liberty Hill Park

Kerr Dam

Warren

Vance

July 2018

Dining along Buggs Island Lake

BRIDGEWATER BAR & GRILL

201 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

Open every Tuesday through Sunday from 11a.m. to 9p.m., Bridgewater Bar & Grill has a passion for serving fresh, delicious food. Their menu offers everything from hand-cut steaks to seafood specialties, burgers, salads, and so much more!

Their Prime Rib is their biggest hit and gets all the best reviews, but is only available on Fridays, Saturdays, and all day Sundays. Their Fried Catfish is also a huge hit and is offered every day! Additionally, their bar is open from 4p.m. to 9p.m.

Story by Alina Moody

Photos from restaurants and by Alina Moody

Buggs Island Brewery

BUGGS ISLAND BREWERY

101 East 2nd Street, Clarksville

Buggs Island Brewery now rests on the lake and provides the most beautiful view of the Buggs to enjoy while you eat. Hours are Sunday 12p.m.8p.m., Monday & Tuesday 4p.m.-9p.m., Wednesday & Thursday 12p.m.-9p.m., and Friday & Saturday 12p.m.-10p.m. Their ‘Island Bites’ have been a smash hit featuring their signature Smash Burgers! They also sell great beer made from scratch at their own brewery including the Kerr Lake Kolsch and the Hazy Lake Daze NEIPA.

COOPER’S LANDING

INN & TRAVELER’S TAVERN

801 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

Cooper’s Landing offers casual fine dining with a seasonal menu. They provide catering options as well as special dining events! They’re open Wednesday through Saturday from 5p.m. to 10p.m. and Sundays from 10a.m. to 3p.m.

THE COTTAGE BARN

307 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

The Cottage Barn is the perfect location to stop and shop while snacking on something sweet from their Ice Cream Parlor or something savory like their hot dogs and barbecue sandwich! They have re-loved furniture, vintage finds, gifts and home decor; they are open Monday through Thursday 11a.m. to 7p.m., Friday 10a.m. to 8p.m., Saturday 10a.m. to 9p.m., and Sunday 12p.m. to 6p.m.

GREAT WALL CHINESE RESTAURANT

327 Virginia Ave, Clarksville

The Great Wall Chinese Restaurant provides DineIn and Take Out options for customers. They operate a buffet as well as a menu full of Chinese favorites such as Crab Rangoons and several Lo Mein options. Their hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays 11a.m. to 9p.m., and Saturdays & Sundays 11a.m. to 10p.m. They are closed on Tuesdays.

HARDEE’S

916 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

Hardee’s operating hours are Monday 5a.m. to 11p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 5a.m. to 9p.m., Friday & Saturday 5a.m. to 10p.m. and Sunday 6a.m. to 8p.m.

LOS BANDIDOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

7331 Highway 15, Clarksville

Los Bandidos hosts a whole menu of great Mexican cuisine such as their Chilaquiles Mexicanos and their Bistec A La Mexicana. They are open everyday from 11a.m. to 10p.m. except Sunday; they are closed on Sundays.

MCDONALD’S

200 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

McDonald’s is open Monday through Saturday from 6a.m. to 11p.m. and on Sunday from 6a.m. to 10:30p.m.

MICHELLE’S HOME COOKING CAFE

11256 Highway Fifteen, Clarksville

Michelle’s Home Cooking Cafe provides “good old home cooking” like what Grandma used to cook! They are open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6a.m. to 3p.m. They close Sunday and Monday.

OUR HAPPY PLACE

420 Madison Street, Boydton

Our Happy Place is a family-oriented restaurant with friendly service located in the heart of historical Boydton open Monday through Friday from 6a.m. to 3p.m.! They are closed Saturdays and Sundays.

PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA

8188 Highway 15, Clarksville

Papa John’s is open everyday from 11a.m. to 10p.m. to provide you with pizza and wings to your heart’s content.

PINO’S PIZZA

6288 Buggs Island Road, Boydton

Come over to eat their delicious pizza and much more! They’re open every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from 11a.m. to 9p.m. and Saturday from 11a.m. to 8p.m. and are closed on Mondays.

PIZZA PUB

401 Virginia Avenue, Clarksville

Pizza Pub is a family owned Italian restaurant and bar that serves a wide range of food such as pizzas, pastas, steak and seafood. The Pub has a full bar and lounge with pool tables, a jukebox, corn hole boards, and live entertainment! Their hours are Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 11a.m. to 9p.m., Monday 11a.m. to 10p.m., and Friday and Saturday 11a.m. to 11p.m.

ROSE’S PIZZA 109 Bank Street, Boydton

Rose’s Italian restaurant and pizzeria has served Mecklenburg County for over 20 years with delicious Italian cuisine! They are open every Monday through Saturday from 10a.m. to 9p.m. They close on Sundays.

SUGAR IT UP

SUBWAY

916 Clarksville Crossing, Clarksville

Subway in Clarksville is open every Monday through Saturday from 7a.m. to 10p.m. and on Sundays from 8a.m. to 10p.m.

203 7th Street, Clarksville

Sugar It Up is a hometown bakery that offers cakes, pastries, cookies, quiches, bread, and so much more! They offer indoor and outdoor sitting to enjoy your coffee and pastries on site. One of their biggest sellers right now—aside from all the sweets—is their quiche and their newly added iced coffee. While flavors for the iced are limited right now, they will be adding flavors in the near future. They are open every Wednesday through Saturday 8a.m. to 2p.m. •