Recreation News, April 2017

Recreation SERVING THE EMPLOYEES OF 55 GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATIONS

/recreationnews

April 2017

@liveplaydo

Volume 35/Number 4

#liveplaydo

recreationnews.com

NEWS

Spring getaways in the Old Dominion

GREAT BREWS AND VIEWS IN ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY, VA Includes overnight stay for two at the Historic Natural Bridge Hotel & Conference Center, 2 one-day passes to the Natural Bridge State Park, beer tasting at Great Valley Farm Brewery, and more!

VIRGINIA PULL-OUT SECTION

NORTH CAROLINA VIEWS

SPRING OUTDOORS IN WEST VIRGINIA

FINDING WORLD WAR I CONNECTIONS

Get A Free Dinette Set With A Minimum Purchase of $2500 From Ashley, Coaster or ACME

Why Buy From Us?

Fast Approvals

Home

True Wellness Program

Electronics

& More

3 Minute Application Form

A. Louis Philippe Bedroom

B. Jessa Place Livingroom

C. Vendome Vanity

As Low As $36.87/Bi-Weekly

As Low As $50.02/Bi-Weekly

As Low As $69.23/Bi-Weekly

3 MINUTE APPLY | LOW BUDGET FRIENDLY PAYMENTS | FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY | WHITE GLOVE SERVICE ON FURNITURE/MATTRESS Sample Payment Charts All prices include shipping and handling. Total of payments assumes an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE OF 23% using a simple interest calculation. Annual percentage rates may be lower in certain states.

Sample Financing Terms and Cash Discount Comparison 0RQWKO\ SD\PHQW DPRXQWV DUH VXEMHFW WR DSSURYDO EDVHG RQ FUHGLWZRUWKLQHVV DQG WKH DPRXQW ¿QDQFHG 7KLV VDPSOH SD\PHQW chart assumes a new account with a zero balance at the time of purchase. Although every precaution is taken, errors in prices and/or specs may occur. We reserve the right to correct any such errors at the time of purchase.

Code

Pre-pay Cash Discount Paid In Full Before Delivery (Not Financed)

Extended Payment Plan Price

Sample Optional 6-Month 25% Discount (If Paid in Full) Program *Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date and will not be rebated if the purchase balance is not paid in full within three (3) months of delivery of your purchase.

Bi Weekly Payment

# of Bi Weekly Payment

Total Payments Including Interest Charges

Payment (6-Month 25% Discount Program)

# of Payments

Total Payments

A

$1,099.00

$1810.00

$36.87

65

$2,396.70

$104.38

13

$1,357.00

B

$1,699.00

$2800.00

$50.02

78

$3,902.04

$161.54

13

$2,100.00

C

$2,349.00

$3875.00

$69.23

78

$5,400.00

$223.46

13

$2,905.00

2 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

All qualifying purchases must be made in Coaster, Acme or Ashley furniture. Offer for free dinette is brand exclusive.

Qualifying purchases must reach the minimum amount stated. If pricing shown, it is for the longest term allowed IRU ¿QDQFLQJ $OO DSSOLFDQWV PD\ QRW TXDOLI\ IRU WKH WHUPV RU pricing listed for this campaign. Although every precaution is taken, errors in pricing and/or specs may occur. We reserve the right to correct any such errors at the time of purchase.

These offers cannot be combined with any other offer. Items listed on the Garage Sales, Pre-Paid Purchases, Early Payment Incentives, and SVC (Superior Value Collection) listed on the LutherSales.com website are not part of this promotion. Qualifying amount applies to merchandise only, not the value of applicable taxes or fees. No adjustments to previous purchases. All products must be shipped to the same address. Contact your account representative for more information. Offer expires 4-30-17 at midnight EST.

1.800.358.6466 recnews.luthersales.com

publisher’s note I karl teel

We offer SO many ways to find out about fun

Here at Recreation News Media, particularly in the Publisher’s Note, you’ll read numerous reasons why you should take a getaway. It’s good for the mind and soul, it’s good for productivity, it’s a good use of your finite amount of time in life, it’s good for relationships, and it’s good for mental health.

We strive to provide ideas on where to go, what to do, and how to maximize the experience. But, sometimes, the limit isn’t knowledge and knowhow, the limit is the budget. We hear you loud and clear.

Check out our new sister website, GovPerk.com.

It’s packed with specials, particularly for government workers and contractors. It’s a perk of the job. Lots of discounts on travel and destinations allow you to go more often, or in better style, than you may have been able to do otherwise.

GovPerk.com also has discounts on mobile phone service, television and Internet service, real estate, entertainment, health services, and legal services. And, you know what you can use those savings for? More travel!

Check out GovPerk.com today. And, of course, check out RecreationNews.com for feature stories and more to help you decide where to go.

Don’t have much time or money? Check out our weekly email blast, The Weekend Update, filled with ideas on how to make the most of your weekend. It comes out every Wednesday at 1:05pm, just after lunch on “hump day.” At that point, you are now closer to the weekend than the start of the work week, so begin looking forward to fun.

The Weekend Update features at least a dozen events in the area, many of them free. There are wine festivals, nature hikes, music and theater events, expos and seminars, and plenty of other options. You also get a chance to win a getaway

How do you #liveplaydo?

Share a photo on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag!

Recreation News

and learn of a few discounts. And, for those on the go, it’s mobile-friendly.

Don’t get The Weekend Update? Sign up today.

Simply email events@RecreationNews.com, or fill out the form on RecreationNews.com.

Stay up to date with us on social media, too.

Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/ recreationnews), on instagram (instagram.com/ LivePlayDo), on Twitter (twitter.com/LivePlayDo), and on Pinterest (pinterest.com/recreationnews).

Not only can you find more great ideas and getaways, you can share with us your thoughts and photos with #LivePlayDo and also get a chance to win a getaway for two.

To date, we’ve given away more than half a million dollars’ worth of getaways. And these are true, no-strings-attached, trips — no need to sit through a presentation, no need to fork out any money. Just enter to win at any of our websites, through The Weekend Update, or through the paper.

We are here to help you make the most of your most precious asset — your time. Enjoy!

On our cover The massive Natural Bridge, once owned by Thomas Jefferson, is an iconic Virginia landmark.

(Rockbridge Regional HO PAYS THE Tourism)

W

BUSINESS CARDS

AAA COLOR CARD CO. (814) 793-2342 aaacolorcard.com

Raised Ink • Flat Foil Full Color Flat Ink Fast Turnaround 1000s Logos in Stock Providing Quality Business Cards Since 1976.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 ~ Publisher’s Note 4 ~ Editor’s Note 5 ~ Culture 6 ~ Travel Line 8 ~ North Carolina views 10 ~ Spring in Fayetteville 12 ~ Great Greenbrier River Race 14 ~ Morgantown parks 15 ~ Wine Doctor 16 ~ Hardy County motorcycle rides VA-1 ~ Shenandoah Artisan tour VA-3 ~ Family Travel VA-4 ~ Welcome to Lynchburg VA-5 ~ Rooms with a view in Nelson VA-6 ~ The art of Clifton Forge VA-8 ~ Outdoors in Rockbridge County VA-10 ~ Explore Orange County VA-12 ~ Northern Neck Artisan Trail VA-14 ~ Swamp Stomp Half-Marathon VA-16 ~ -Yorktown’s new museum 17 ~ Calendar of Events 21 ~ Adventures in Taste 21 ~ Music Festival 22 ~ Caribbean Corner 24 ~ Raystown Lake’s skills park 25 ~ Hike or float in Indiana County 26 ~ Gettysburg Antiques Show 28 ~ Garrett County’s change of season 29 ~ World War I round-up

BILLS IF YOU CAN’T WORK?

We offer disability insurance that covers you 24 hours a day, on or off the job, for sickness or injury. Paid in addition to government sick leave. Childbirth is also covered under this policy. All full-time federal, DC Government employees and government contractors are eligible for this plan. Guaranteed issue coverage.

HOSPITAL INDEMNITY PLAN

This plan pays $500 per day for the first two days and $1,000 per day for days 3-6 if you or a family member are admitted and treated in a hospital. Childbirth is also covered under this policy.

All full-time federal, DC Government employees and government contractors are eligible for this plan. Guaranteed issue coverage.

Civil Service Employees Group

MILLENNIUM POOL SERVICE

YOU DESERVE YOUR

& R R IGHTS

• EEO claims • Merit Systems Protection Board hearings • OPM • Office of the Special Counsel • Security clearances – obtaining and revocation appeals • Performance improvement plans and notices of intent to remove

Government Employees discount!

www.millenniumpool.com

ESULTS

With over 35 years of experience, Farber Legal, LLC is known for its quick results in enforcing the rights of federal employees regarding:

Weekly Service Repairs Renovations and More

703-939-5062

703-644-2664

301-529-5437 FarberLegal.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 3

editor’s note I marvin bond

April is like going home again For me, the April issue of Recreation News is a bit like going home again as we produce our annual Virginia pull-out section and the first of our two North Carolina sections for the year.

Though I’ve lived in Maryland since my pre-teen years, I was born

in North Carolina and spent my early years in Virginia. The connections go back generations, as my father was born in North Carolina, as were his parents, and my mother was a Virginian, as were her parents.

Needless to say, I’ve spent a lot of time traveling in both the Tar Heel

In Newport News, Va., the Virginia Living Museum will celebrate Earth Day on April 22, with special activities for its animals and guests.

Observe the animals as they receive toys, treats, and other enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors. Learn ways to help the environment by reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. There will be crafts, eco-friendly giveaways, and earthfriendly animal shows.

Plus, visitors can bring old batteries, cell phones, and sneakers for recycling.

In support of Earth Day, the horticulture staff will hold their annual Spring Native Plant fundraiser sale April 22–23 and 29–30. The sale also will introduce the gardening public to the incredible variety of native plants that will do well in the landscape, and educate gardeners about plants that are better left in the wild.

Shoppers can choose from an array of beautiful and unusual native plants for a variety of garden sites and styles. Many are excellent for attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife.

The site for government employees to find deals, discounts, and freebies.

GovPerk.com

State and the Old Dominion through the years and accumulated plenty of perspective to share with both our writers and our readers.

This month, we’ll take a look at five favorite views in Eastern North Carolina, with some insights I hope you’ll enjoy. We’ll even give you the scoop on the best views to enjoy during the 80th season of the outdoor drama The Lost Colony. And, if you’re a fan of those Andy Griffith re-runs, don’t miss Carol Timblin’s Travel Line column about the real Mayberry.

North of the border, in Virginia, we take a look at neat things to do outdoors in the Lexington area, in Orange County, and in Chesapeake and the Great Dismal Swamp. We’ll find you a room with a view in Nelson County, a new museum in Yorktown, and a historic theater in Clifton Forge, and take a stroll along the Bluff Walk in Lynchburg.

Finding World War I connections As we approach the centennial of America’s entry into “the war to end all wars,” we take a region-wide look at special programs and exhibits you can enjoy and sites to visit to learn more about WWI. I think you’ll be surprised at how many localities have discovered connections to the war effort and the impact the war had on the Mid-Atlantic.

Put on your explorer’s cap In an area like Washington, D.C., with so many people moving in and

out, it’s obvious that not everyone has ties to this region. I hope we at Recreation News provide you with reasons to explore the Mid-Atlantic.

If you’re a long-time resident or native, we hope to help you recall a pleasant memory from an earlier trip. But what I really hope is that we encourage you to visit interesting places in the area you’ve always wanted to go or maybe never knew existed.

Whether it’s a trip to long familiar places or a brand new adventure, you’ll be making good use of your most limited and valuable commodity: your time. Time and again, studies show we leave millions of hours of leave unused. Take the time. Take a trip. And share with us at #LivePlayDo.

Coming next month u West Virginia pull-out section u Luray, Va. u Lancaster, Pa. u High wheeling in Frederick, Md.

T N A R U A T S E R WEEK FOR G N I PRIC

r e n n i d d n a h c lun R T I C I P AT I N G AT P A U R A N T S R E S TA 2–8

SPEC

IAL

L I R P A

Find participating restaurants at

TalbotRestaurantWeek.com 410-770-8000

4 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Take a Day? Take a Weekend?

You need to escape, but not too far away!

Build your visit around one of these events: WESTMINSTER WINE STROLL April 2 | 4 pm–8 pm Historic Downtown Main Street

10TH ANNUAL PEEPSHOW Marvelous Marshmallow Creations April 7–19 | 10 am–7 pm Carroll Arts Center Westminster

MAIN STREET HEAT CHILI COOK-OFF ICS Sanctioned April 8 | 10 am–5 pm Historic Downtown Mount Airy

Go to our website to discover driving tours throughout our scenic county…the Barn Quilt Trail, the Wine Trail, or our Civil War Driving Tour. Stop in one of our quaint towns for a bite to eat and unique shopping.

800-272-1933 | www.CarrollCountyTourism.org

BUCKWILD TRUCK & TRACTOR CLASSIC April 29 & 30 | 7 am–4 pm Carroll County Ag Center Westminster

culture I gwen woolf

Virginia Arts Festival shines with diverse lineup in Tidewater An all-female rhythm and blues trio mentored by Prince. A 13-yearold jazz pianist. A dance about hair.

An operatic ghost story. A blockbuster military tattoo. Oh, yes, there’s Swan Lake, too.

The Virginia Arts Festival brings a cultural feast of world-class performances in contemporary and classical music, dance, and theater to the Hampton Roads area in Southeastern Virginia every spring. The event, now in its 21st season, draws some 60,000 spectators over several months.

“Virginia Arts Festival attracts large audiences every year to enjoy great artists who have defined virtuosity for decades and to discover phenomenal new performers and new works,” said the festival’s Rob Cross. “Festival patrons hear and see artists and performances that are not often presented in Hampton Roads and new productions that are revealed for the first time on Virginia stages.”

There are more than 40 performances from which to choose this month and in May, with venues in large and small halls in Norfolk, Newport News, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg.

Check vafest.org for the full schedule, bios of performers, and ticket and accommodations information.

Among the highlights is a per-

formance on April 14 by the group KING, protégés of the late pop star Prince. The group was nominated at this year’s Grammy Awards for Best Urban Contemporary Album for its debut album, We Are KING, competing with the likes of musical giants Beyoncé Knowles and Rihanna. (Beyoncé won.)

The jazz pianist Joey Alexander is just 13, but he’s already a sensation, nominated for Grammys and featured in national TV shows and magazines. He’ll perform May 27.

World premieres Two world premieres are on tap during the Virginia Arts Festival.

The dance company Urban Bush Women will perform Hair & Other Stories on April 22. The work, which combines dance with storytelling, is about physical appearance in advertising compared with real life, especially in terms of race, gender, body image, and even black women’s hair.

An opera called Kept: A Ghost Story (May 25 and 28) is based on a 19th-century tale about the dark secrets awakened with a lighthouse keeper’s marriage. The opera was produced through the John Duffy Institute for New Opera, an ongoing festival project.

Also sure to thrill audiences is Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, with final performances of Swan Lake

FREE IN D.C.

The National Museum of American History kicks off Jazz Appreciation Month on April 1 with a display on “First Lady of Song” Ella Fitzgerald. (americanhistory.si.edu/smithsonian-jazz) Two new exhibitions deal with the impact of war on troops: Artist Soldiers: Artistic Expression in the First World War opens April 6 at the National Air and Space Museum (airandspace.si.edu) and The Face of Battle: Americans at War opens April 7 at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. (npg.si.edu) The National Cherry Blossom Festival has the city all aflutter. Highlights include the National Cherry Blossom Parade and Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival on April 8. (nationalcherryblossomfestival.org) — gwen woolf

April 1–2, accompanied by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra playing the Tchaikovsky score.

The Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble will perform Dido and Aeneas, starring Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe, on May 13. The theatrical show combines dance and music.

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, with The Choral Arts Society of Washington, will present the masterwork Berlioz Requiem on May 20 with JoAnn Falletta conducting. More than 300 musicians will participate.

Other noted artists include violinist Itzhak Perlman, performing movie scores with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, on April 13, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis on May 5.

The FunHouse Fest, curated by musician Bruce Hornsby, will be June 23–25 in Williamsburg.

Patriotism and beer The Virginia International Tattoo is always a crowd-pleaser, but this year’s event is extra special. It will be a signature event in the nationwide commemoration of the World War I centennial. The theme is Over There: 100 Years of America and Our Allies.

S E R V IN G

W A S H IN G T O N

Learn more Virginia Arts Festival: 757-282-2822 (tickets); vafest.org

D C , M A R Y L A N D

A N D

V IR G IN IA

BANKRUPTCY & SECURITY CLEARANCE

ATTENTION FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, MILITARY PERSONNEL OR FEDERAL CONTRACTORS Did you know that the #1 reason for security clearance denial is financial problems?

Our firm handles clients who have concerns about their security clearance.

We practice consumer bankruptcy and security clearance law and know how to help those persons with financial problems retain a federal security clearance.

family event

The Face of Battle: Americans at War, 9/11 to Now opens April 7 at the National Portrait Gallery and focuses on the psychological impact and consequences of modern warfare on those who serve. Portraits of deployed soldiers in combat and off duty, and representations of empty bedrooms and of lives lost, help the viewer connect. Six featured artists offer an emotional and psychological perspective of battle and its repercussions. The exhibition will be on view through Jan. 28. Suitable for older children. (npg.si.edu) — ami neiberger-miller

The tattoo will put on a spectacular show April 27–30 honoring those who served their countries.

Tributes, military marching bands, artists from WWI allied countries, and historical images are among the highlights.

As part of the festivities, the tattoo will mark the 100th anniversary of the Naval Station Norfolk with performances, video, and a musical salute by the Navy’s Fleet Forces Band.

Norfolk is the world’s largest naval base.

The tattoo, which features more than 1,000 performers from around the world, has been called the No. 1 U.S. destination for travelers by the American Bus Association. Before the performance, fans can meet the performers and enjoy music, food, and craft beers at “Tattoo Hullabaloo” on Norfolk’s Scope Plaza.

The arts festival also has its quirky side. The Pants Down Circus Rock Show will be held April 8. There will be a Fringe Festival, May 12–13, in Virginia Beach and another in Norfolk, May 25–28. The Virginia Beer Festival will be May 20–21 on the Norfolk Waterfront.

AMMERMAN & GOLDBERG Attorneys: Harris S. Ammerman and Joseph M. Goldberg H abla E spañ ol • S panish speak ing staf f

(202) 638-0606

1115 M assachusetts A ve. N W W ashington D C , 20005

E - m ail: H S A A B A @ A O L . C O M W eb S ite: www. am m erm angoldberg. com “We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the bankruptcy code.”

FREE PHONE CONSULTATION FREE CREDIT REPORT recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 5

travel line I carol timblin

The real Mayberry calls Andy Griffith fans to Mount Airy, N.C. Television icon Andy Griffith grew up as an only child in Mount Airy, N.C., then a blue-collar town near the Virginia state line. He began performing in his church choir and at his elementary school, was a member of the Carolina Playmakers at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and played the role of Sir Walter Raleigh in The Lost Colony outdoor drama. His Broadway role in No Time for Sergeants, as well as his monologue, What It Was, Was Football, thrust him into the national limelight, where he stayed for the remainder of his long career.

The Andy Griffith Show focused on a mythical town called Mayberry and its cast of endearing citizens. It became a launching pad for the careers of a young Ron Howard, who played Griffith’s son, Opie, and Jim Nabors, who played Gomer Pyle, and it gave us Don Knotts’ iconic character, Barney Fife. Fans came to love the idea of Mayberry so much that they started looking for it in Griffith’s hometown.

Eventually, Mount Airy morphed into “Mayberry USA.” Today, visitors drop in at Floyd’s City Barber Shop or the Old Mayberry Jail, take a ride in a vintage squad car, and perhaps enjoy a pork chop sandwich at Snappy Lunch or a grilled cheese at the Bluebird Diner. (The jail is even a popular venue for nuptials.)

Over the years, Emmett Forrest, Griffith’s childhood friend, amassed a vast collection of memorabilia that’s on display at the Andy Griffith Museum, housed in the elementary school they attended. The school’s auditorium, where Griffith first performed on stage, houses the Andy Griffith Playhouse.

The museum has other exhibits, too, including one on Chang and Eng Bunker, the Thai-American conjoined twins who lived in the area and whose condition became the basis for the term “Siamese twins.”

Woodloch.

A story about bringing families together!

Outside, there’s a statue of Griffith and his TV son, Opie, carrying their fishing poles.

Mayberry Days During Mayberry Days, Sept. 19–24, and the Autumn Leaves Festival, Oct. 13–15, thousands of visitors descend on Mount Airy. Fans come to meet the handful of surviving stars from the show, including Betty Lynn, who portrayed Barney Fife’s girlfriend, Thelma Lou. A resident celebrity, she turned 90 last year.

On Thursday evenings, musicians gather at the Historic Earle Theatre and Old-Time Music Heritage Hall in town for a jam session, free and open to the public. Many other music events take place at the Earle throughout the year. (surryarts.org) Mount Airy is included in a seven-county area that’s a designated American Viticultural Area, with more than 30 wineries and vineyards open to the public.

The annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival, coming up May 20 in nearby Elkin, celebrates local wineries and vineyards. (yvwf.org) If you hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 217.3 near Mount Airy and drive south to Milepost 384.7, you’ll come to the happening city of Asheville, N.C. Designed for Drama: Fashion from the Classics runs through July 4 at Biltmore House. The exhibit is inspired by George Vanderbilt’s love of literature and showcases more than 40 award-winning movie costumes from films based on favorite books in his collection. Several original books from his 22,000-volume library are on public display for the first time.

George’s wife, Edith, started Biltmore Industries on the grounds of the Grove Park Inn, also in Asheville, more than 100 years ago. Omni Grove Park Inn has turned the English-style cottages, collectively called Grovewood Village, into guest experiences.

Beginning in April, free guided tours of the buildings will be offered on Saturdays at 1:00 pm.

On display are looms and equipment used by Biltmore Industries, which became world-famous in its day.

Asheville’s Burial Beer Co. is now brewing at Forestry Camp, its second location, in buildings that once housed Civilian Conservation Corps workers who built the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Skyline Trail that leads to the top of Hickory Nut

share yo

s! on

est destin eet at w t i r u

Providing unrivaled hospitality, endless activities & amenities, and nightly entertainment with a contagious spirit of fun and togetherness.

WOODLOCH.COM

Around the Mid-Atlantic The grand opening celebration of the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown continues through April 4, culminating the museum’s 10-year transformation from the Yorktown Victory Center.

The museum’s inaugural special exhibition — AfterWARd: The Revolutionary Veterans Who Built America — debuts June 10 and follows the postwar stories of veterans of the Siege of Yorktown and how they went on after the war to shape the America we know today.

A series of plays, performances, and public lectures, June through November, feature Revolutionary War veterans James Armistead Lafayette, Alexander Hamilton, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Henry Knox, as well as issues facing modern-day veterans. (historyisfun.org)

Other travel news There’s still time to buy tickets for the 41st Spoleto Festival USA, which takes place in Charleston, S.C., May 26–June 11. It offers 17 days of performances by renowned and emerging artists in the fields of opera, theater, and dance, as well as chamber, symphonic, choral, and jazz music. Performances take place in the city’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces. (spoletousa.org) UK Countryside Tours’ brand new “Telling the Stories of England” escorted journeys offer exclusive and private behind-the-scenes experiences designed to inspire Americans to explore Britain’s diverse regions.

Designed by leading academics and singular experts in their fields, the heritage and cultural tours of England are organized around the themes of art and culture, history and heritage, and houses and gardens. The tour company works with 12 universities, 49 country houses, 25 castles and monuments, 27 magnificent gardens, 12 cathedrals, and 45 museums, as well as seven major libraries, eight art galleries, six historic battlefields, and seven national parks.

Group tours are offered for seven days/six nights and range in price from $3,000 to $10,000.

(Round-trip international airfare is not included in the price.) There are options for independent travelers, as well as customized itineraries. (ukcountrysidetours.com)

Accolades

follow us on

Holland America Line’s MS Eurodam continues to raise the bar even higher for cruise ships visiting the United States. It just earned its 11th consecutive perfect score of 100 on a routine U.S. public health inspection conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at the beginning of a seven-day Caribbean cruise.

The run of perfect scores is a record in both the cruise industry and company history. (hollandamerica.com)

@liveplaydo

Carol Timblin welcomes travel news at ctimblin@ gmail.com

800 :ƨƨƝƥƨƜơ

6 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Falls in Chimney Rock State Park will reopen this year after being closed for 10 years. The area was featured in the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans. (exploreasheville.com)

MARYLAND

MARYLAND

MARYLAND

NEW JERSEY

c h e s a p e a k e b e a c h r e s o rt & s pa

SATURDAY

APRIL 29

Caroline County is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Spend an afternoon cycling along winding country roads or exploring scenic, forested pathsways.

For our FREE Cycling Guide, call 410-479-0655.

general admission at 2pm VIP entrance at 12pm

50+ craft beers, delicious food and beautiful bay views TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE

TTourCaroline.com

CBRESORTSPA.COM 866.832.4810

TRAINS

VIRGINIA

Rail Adventures

• CANOE • KAYAK • RAFT • TUBE Open Daily April 1-October 31

VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA

s #ANOE s +AYAK s 4UBE

Great fishing & midweek discounts.

Enjoy exclusive luxury & comfort aboard the private rail car

DOVER HARBOR

Escorted tours departing from Washington’s Union Station:

.EAR &RONT 2OYAL 6! on the legendary Shenandoah River

Pennsylvanian: Pittsburgh Weekend May 27-29, From $869 / person (departs from New York & Philadelphia)

New York City May 26-30, Round trip $229 / Person One way fares also available

For more information call 703-273-8440 or visit: www.dcnrhs.org

800.270.8808 FrontRoyalOutdoors.com

WEST VIRGINIA

WEST VIRGINIA

800-338-1963 WWW DOWNRIVER COM

Just an hour off the Beltway.

WEST VIRGINIA

Bring Your Golf Group!

LTD

Need to Drive A Message?

It’s all here for you at The Woods: • 36 Holes of Golf • Tennis & Swimming • 4 Bedroom Cottages • The Clubhouse Grille • The Sleepy Creek Spa

Enjoy a relaxing cabin stay Government with adventure Employee filled activities Discounts Available

Vacation Cabins 1-855-R-CABINS LTDvacation.com Come Enjoy West Virginia

888.712.2246 wvcabins.com 800-248-2222•TheWoods.com Mountain Lake Road • HedgesviLLe, Wv

EVERYWHERE

This space can tell over 100,000 readers about your great travel destination and package plans.

For only $3 per thousand people, it’s an economical way to reach a great audience! Our readers are upwardly mobile, highly stable workers, who enjoy travel and leisure, and are looking for fun and a good value for their recreation and travel needs. To find out how, call us at 410-638-6901 or email Publisher@RecreationNews.com for details!

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 7

north carolina I jane and marvin bond

Water, photos featured in favorite Eastern North Carolina views Eastern North Carolina’s coastal plain is pierced by waterways large and small that eventually drain into the sounds and bays that separate the Outer Banks and other barrier islands from the mainland. So, it’s

only natural that many of our favorite views in this part of the Tar Heel State involve the water.

Here are five views to take in that give you a flavor of Eastern North Carolina:

u The view from the 142-year-old Currituck Beach Light House may not be as well known as that from some other Outer Banks light stations, but we think it is spectacular.

The last of the Outer Banks lights to be constructed and located on the northern end of the barrier island chain, the view from the top of the Currituck Beach Light House gives the best perspective we’ve seen on the geography of the region. Climb the 220 steps to the top of the light, but stop along the way to check out the museum-quality exhibits.

Looking west from the observation platform the Currituck Sound,

once a mecca for wealthy waterfowl hunters, separates the island from the mainland. To the east, the gray-green Atlantic rolls in against a beach lined with rental vacation homes. To the south, the islands, beach communities, and fishing villages flow to the horizon. Immediately below is Historic Currituck Village, with its historic buildings, shops, Wild Horse Museum, Outer Banks Center for Wildlife education, and Whalehead Club mansion.

To the north, you see the wilds of a nature preserve and might catch a glimpse of the wild horses that roam the area. (currituckbeachlight.com)

Marvin Bond

The view from the Currituck Bach Light House reveals the slender thread of the Outer Banks between the Atlantic and Currituck Sound.

Legends live on in Corolla.

The Lost Colony

The action in The Lost Colony ranges from the Queen’s court to the illfated colony on Roanoke Island.

Discover a land of wild wonder on the Currituck Outer Banks, NC.

The legendary wild horses of Corolla, unique historical sites, family friendly beaches and mild coastal temperatures are just a few of the reasons why spring is a great time to visit.

Call 877.287.7488 for a visitor’s guide

www.VisitCurrituck.com

8 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

u An Outer Banks tradition, the outdoor drama The Lost Colony opens its 80th season in May. For the best view of the magical telling of the story of Sir Walter Raleigh’s colony, the play’s Bill Coleman said, “Don’t sit too close, because this is a big picture show with action on three sides. It’s the original 3-D production with no special glasses needed.” He advised choosing a premier seat in the center of the audience.

For a bonus view in the amphitheater, stop at the rear of the seats before dusk and look at the peaceful Roanoke Sound.

Show time is 7:45pm and seats begin at $20. Though the play stays true to Paul Greene’s script, technology and some dramatic tweaks make it “a 2017 telling of a 1587 story,” Coleman said.

Insider tip: Look for the great effects when a Colonist catches fire! (thelostcolony.org)

u The Albemarle Sound is exceptionally wide and is one of the largest estuaries in the state, situated opposite the central Outer Banks communities of Duck and Nags Head. Among the mainland communities bordering the sound, Edenton is one of the best known and familiar to us as the birthplace of Marvin’s father. A favorite view is from the Roanoke River Light House, now located on the Edenton waterfront.

The view from the light, believed to be the last extant example of a rectangular frame building on a screw-pile base, gives a sense of the vast Albemarle Sound.

A walk around the outside deck gives a land-side view of what has been called one of the South’s prettiest towns. The lighthouse was originally located in the sound and marked the entrance to the Roanoke River. (visitedenton.com) u Still further south along the

North Carolina coast, the town of Southport is home to the ferry that carries vacationers to Bald Head Island. The ferry carries no cars, because transportation on Bald Head Island is by foot, bike, or golf cart.

Departing from Southport, the ferry threads between Oak Island and an uninhabited barrier island, passing the Oak Island Light. continued on page 10

Marvin Bond

The Roanoke River Light House was moved to the Edenton waterfront, providing views of both Albemarle Sound and the picturesque town.

Nina Berman

Nina Berman’s image is just one of 100 large-format views of global main streets that are part of the “Eyes on Main Street” festival in Wilson.

SPRING SPECIAL 17% Discount on all room types*

I

magine your dream destination overlooking the Currituck Sound where the waters are soothing and the sunsets are magical.The Inn at Corolla Light is located within the renowned Corolla Light Resort and all resort amenities are available to our guests. *Must be booked on our website using promotion code REC See website for rates. Not to be combined with other promotions and is based on availability.

Offer good for stays through April 30.

Not available Easter weekend.

The

252-453-3340 • 800-215-0772

NN I Corolla Light

reservations@innatcorolla.com 1066 Ocean Trail Corolla, NC 27927 innatcorolla.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 9

north carolina I fran severn

Spring brings tattoos, blues, and daredevils to Fayetteville Fayetteville this spring is all about festivals. From traditional family-centric street fairs to the creative magic of tattoo artists, patriotic displays, a celebration of the blues (with brews), and a few thrills on a zip line, it’s a busy season in the North Carolina sand hills.

The action begins with The AllAmerican Tattoo Convention, April 14–16. The world’s largest tattoo convention boasts 125 tattoo artists from across the country. They’ll demonstrate their unique art form throughout the weekend, with their best work entered into contests.

Contest categories are as varied as Most Patriotic, Best Asian-

Inspired, Best Portrait, and Best Hand or Neck Tattoo. There is even a special category for veterans who are tattoo artists. Other entertainment includes aerial yoga performances, a demonstration by Fayetteville’s Rogue Rollergirls Rollerball Team, and the All-Veteran Parachute Team. (allamericantattooconvention.com)

Biggest festival Completely shifting gears, the annual Fayetteville Dogwood Festival is April 28–30. The largest community event of the year, it welcomes more than 200,000 people to town. Familyfriendly, it features three stages with live entertainment. This year’s head-

Fayetteville Tourism

The aerial adventure at ZipQuest is ranked as one of the top 10 in the country.

liner is Parmalee, which takes to the stage for the Friday night kickoff.

The free performance is followed by fireworks.

The rest of the weekend is filled with a street festival, a 100-plus showcase of local artists, a new interactive show with jugglers and pirates, a performance stage with nationally known Shadow of the Belly Tribal Belly Dancers, martial arts demonstrations, and a variety of music, ranging from rhythm and blues to southern soul to fusion rock. And, of course, there will be dozens of food vendors. (www.faydogwoodfestival.com) While strolling through the festival, look for the many sculptures placed throughout the downtown.

They are part of the Arts Council Work in Progress exhibition. Whimsical, abstract, or symbolic, the 11 pieces entertain the eye and engage the mind. Download a free map to find them. (theartscouncil.com/publicart) On May 20, hundreds of flags will fill the grounds of the Airborne and Special Operations Museum. Each flag in the Field of Honor represents someone who is currently serving or who has served in the military, and has a tag identifying the person who sponsored the flag and the person the flag honors. The display remains until June 30. (ncfieldofhonor.com) While at the Field of Honor, take a moment to stop by the Special Operations Force K9 Memorial. The statue

of a military combat dog in full battle kit sits at attention, guarding the museum and statue of Iron Mike. The stones around the statue name all of the dogs in friendly armies killed in action since 9/11.

North Carolina

photographs. For 100 days, beginning April 8, 100 of the photographs will be displayed on 100 store front windows.

The view down six blocks of Wilson’s Main Street is amazing, as the work of 100 different photographers from 31 countries explore the theme “Main Street: A Crossroad of Cultures.” Walking along the street, the view is always changing and transports you to dusty crossroads and vibrant cities both near and far.

The festival also includes an additional 51 large-scale photographs shot by Wilson youth, a Before Facebook exhibit that presents more than a century of family-oriented images, and Eyes on Taiwan, an large-scale indoor exhibit showcasing the work of 10 contemporary Chinese photographers.

Unlike the previous four favorites, this view comes to an end July 16. (eyesonmainstreetwilson.com)

continued from page 9 “Ahead you see the glimmer of the village around Bald Head harbor,” said Perry Morrison, who’s spent many vacation days on the island. “It has the feel of a Nantuckettype village. Old Baldy is the nonoperational lighthouse off to the right and a fun place to visit.”

Boarding the ferry is the first step to decompress and, with no cars, you’re in paradise. (ncbrunswick. com) u Leaving the coast, there’s a very different view in Wilson, along I-95, where world famous photographer Jerome De Perlinghi heads the organization that presents “Eyes on Main Street,” Wilson’s outdoor photo festival. The event transforms Nash Street into a vibrant gallery of large-scale

10 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Blues and brews The hugely popular Blues-n-Brews Festival returns June 3 for its 15th year. The daylong party features dozens of craft brews and hot blues bands. Admission includes a souvenir glass and samples from area brewers. Plenty of food and breworiented merchandise will be on sale, too. Non-drinking admission is also available. (cfrt.org/blues-andbrews) Lastly, channel your inner swashbuckler at the expanded ZipQuest Waterfall and Treetop Adventure.

The zip line is already ranked as one of the top 10 in the country. It’s a two-hour adventure that flies over ravines and waterfalls and through forests, and takes you up into the treetops and over swinging bridges.

ZipQuest has added two new adventures. NightQuest is an after-dark zip adventure lit only by your headlamp and the moon. SwingShot is a swing that releases you 3 1/2 stories above the ground to swoop over Carver’s Creek. (zipquest.com)

Before you go Fayetteville Tourism: visitfayettevillenc.com

Our Forefathers’ aim in visiting what would

become America was at first mere curiosity. But now it feels right to sacrifice for a cause as noble as the rolling hills here are beautiful.

They stopped because of abundant water and fertile soil. They stayed to build upon the nation’s great ideals. As you visit, make sure to explore the treasures of a community that embodies service and sacrifice at every turn. Contact us to start planning your visit at 1-888-98-HEROES or VisitFayettevilleNC.com.

FREEDOM HIGHWAY

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 11

west virginia I reed hellman

Great Greenbrier River Race promotes fun in Pocahontas Co.

Gail Hyer

Runners complete one leg of the Great Greenbrier River Race. Participants can do all three legs or run as teams.

Going into its fourth decade, the Great Greenbrier River Race, set for April 29, merges the challenges of a triathlon with a family-friendly attitude that stresses fun along with fitness. The race starts and ends in Marlinton, W.Va., and has become a five-star event, combining a 3-mile run, a 4-mile paddle, and a 10-mile bike ride. The race’s course follows the beautiful Greenbrier River and parallel Greenbrier River Trail through scenic Pocahontas County.

“You can have up to four people on a team, so we have lots of families enter,” said Brenda Cochrane, of the sponsoring Greenbrier River Trail Association. “Last year, our youngest racer was under 6 years old. We had 20 racers under 12 years old, and our oldest was 80.”

The starting leg, a 3-mile run, takes the racers along the Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile long rail trail operated by the West Virginia State Park system. A packed crusher run surface, 1 percent grade, and classic mountain river scenery create an engaging venue.

Runners go out a mile and a half, then back to town to begin the 4-mile paddle down river to the blue bridge in Buckeye. One of the longest un-dammed rivers in the east, the Greenbrier traverses one of the most remote areas in the state.

Enter to win!

Win a 2-night stay for two at Black Bear Resort AND a guided rafting trip with Blackwater Outdoor Adventures.

SOUTH SIDE DEPOT

visitgrantcounty.com • 304-257-9264 25TH ANNUAL SPRING MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

To Enter: Email blackbear@ blackbearwv.com with your contact information and “contest” in the subject line or call 304-866-4391

Tri County Fairgrounds, Petersburg, WV • Entertainment • Food • Crafts • Inflatables for Kids • Rock Wall • Mechanical Bull • Horse Show • Golf Tournament • 5K Color Run • Corn Hole • Toothless Ruth, Josh Oldaker and More!

FREE ADMISSION!

MAKE YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE A MOUNTAINRAIL ADVENTURE! Perfect for families, day trips, or vacations!

SEE WEBSITE FOR ALL EXCURSION OPTIONS.

CALL: 866.779.4828 • MTN-RAIL.COM blackbearwv.com

blackwateroutdoors.com

12 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Fri., Apr. 28 — FREE Movie Night showing Rogue One, A Star Wars Story Sat., Apr. 29 — Parade, 3:00pm Sun., Apr. 30 — Antique car and motorcycle show, horse show, and April Fools race

Call the chamber office to request applications and entry forms.

Check the chamber facebook page or call 304-257-2722 for complete schedule of events.

Racers may use canoes, kayaks, or standup paddle boards to cover the distance.

Taking out from the river, racers mount bicycles and ride south about a mile along the river trail, then turn back north to Marlinton, making a 10-mile bike ride to the finish line and legions of spectators, families, and cheering fans. The celebration continues with live music, a meal for all of the racers, and the awards ceremony.

Insider tip: The race’s many categories ensure that many participants will receive prizes.

ing, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding.

Because it is next to the river for most of its length, trail users have frequent access to opportunities for swimming and fishing.

The great prizes, music, and food have attracted a loyal following of racers and fans. Known for its hospitality, Marlinton welcomes the racers, and many teams have made the Greenbrier an annual occasion. State park cabins, motels, privately

owned cottages, and bed-and-breakfasts are available nearby.

Register for the race at tristateracer.com. Look under “April 2017,” and pull up the 31st annual Great Greenbrier River Race.

Learn more Pocahontas Co. Tourism: pocahontas.org

Team and solo participants Held the last Saturday in April, the race was originally a team event requiring four members, including canoeists, a bicyclist, and a runner. As the event evolved, more and more people chose to do it solo.

Last year saw some 300 solo participants and 100 teams. Some teams consist of a single family and can even include the family dog.

The race is well organized and awards are given for first-place overall and first, second, and third place in seven solo categories and eight team categories, including a separate category for challenged athletes. In a solo entry, one person does all three events. In a team entry, up to four people compete, each covering one or two events, but not all three.

Started in 1986, the race was initially an effort to raise awareness and interest in the trail after devastating floods. Since then, it has become a major fundraiser for the Greenbrier River Trail Association. Funded improvements have included water pumps, enhanced trailheads, restrooms, shelters, interpretive signs, and resurfacing.

The trail accommodates bicycling, backpack-

Gail Hyer

Watercraft are lined up and ready for racers to tackle the Greenbrier River portion of the race.

Beartown State Park

Watoga State Park

FREE $300 Getaway Expires 6/15/17

Request a free brochure & you can Win 1 of 3, 2-night stays at the lodging of your choice.

See link for details.

Wow...

Experience the Greenbrier River Trail, with beautiful scenery and plants and animals in abundance, each season is unique. The Hall of Fame inducted trail is 78 miles long and is set on the gentle rail grade winding alongside the Greenbrier River. Request a FREE brochure for a chance to win a $300 getaway. 800.336.7009

No purchase necessary.

Greenbrier River Trail

800.336.7009 For more info, or a FREE Adventure Guide visit: NaturesMountainPlayground.com/trail3

Scan with your phone

Text “trail3” to 304.782.0400 or enter keycode “trail3” on NaturesMtnPlayground.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 13

Discover.

Explore.

Experience.

The heart of the Eastern Panhandle.

Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV

MAY 12 -14 Circa Blue Fest circabluefest.com May 27 WoodsFest WoodsFest May 27-28 WV Wine and Arts Festival travelwv.com/events

west virginia I matthew graham

7 ways to park yourself in Morgantown Spring is here, and one of the loveliest small cities to visit in springtime is Morgantown, W.Va., perhaps best known as the home of West Virginia University. What makes this town so special for outdoor lovers is its many scenic parks, along the river and in the mountains.

Connected via a riverfront walk — the Caperton Trail — along the Monongahela River, several of the parks may be visited in one day. The paved rail trail runs 6 miles and is ideal for walking, cycling, or skating.

Near the heart of the city, the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park features lovely trails and, in the spring, is an amazing venue to see the annual profusion of cherry blossoms. An added bonus: It’s far, far away from the crowds in Washington, D.C. This riverfront park is also a place to be for those who love the arts — an outdoor amphitheater features live concerts, as well as movies and a variety of outdoor festivals.

To the north, and also on the Caperton Trail, the Core Arboretum is a 91-acre mix of hills, forests, and fields. The arboretum is filled with native plants, shrubs, and trees, including some that are more than 200 years old. Enjoy guided wildflower walks in the spring, or simply relax and watch the birds on one of the trailside benches.

The adjacent 36-acre Krepps Park is ideal for having a picnic, taking a summertime swim in the outdoor pool, or letting your canine companion romp around in the dog park.

Toward the southern end of Morgantown, the 170-acre White Park is accessed via a rail-trail connector path. Sports is the name of the game here, with softball fields, baseball fields, and the Morgantown Ice Arena available.

Mountain bikers will relish the numerous short, interconnecting single-path trails. There also are 5 miles of wooded hiking trails with secluded views of small waterfalls and picturesque vistas of the town’s reservoir.

Amazing view For the most amazing view of the city, Dorsey’s Knob Park, just a 2-mile drive from White Park, is home to Sky Rock. This rocky precipice stands 600 feet above the surrounding countryside with a panorama of the river, the city, and the verdant mountain ridges. The park also features a variety of trails and a disc golf course.

East of the historic downtown area, Marilla Park is an ideal spot for kids and teenagers. It features an outdoor skate and BMX bike park, a recreation center, an outdoor pool

Convention & Visitors Bureau 126 E. Race St. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304.264.8801 • 800.4WVA.FUN

travelwv.com

14 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Morgantown Tourism

Coopers Rock State Forest provides beautiful views, as well as excellent rock climbing opportunities.

with waterslides, and youth basketball courts.

Farther east — 8 miles outside the city — Coopers Rock State Forest is one of the most beautiful parks in the state. The 12,716-acre park features countless scenic views of the Cheat River Gorge, more than 50 miles of wooded hiking and biking trails, a 6-acre pond stocked with trout, and amazing cliffs and enor-

mous boulders. The rock faces contain dozens of shear climbing routes, and for those who wish to try this high-adrenaline sport, Coopers Rock Climbing Guides offers halfday classes for beginners. (coopersrockclimbingguides.com)

For more information Morgantown Tourism: tourmorgantown.com

wine doctor I ed ard fin tein

Terroir plays vital role in wine production Where exactly does a wine get its character? Certainly, the winemaker, with his or her personal winemaking style, somewhat dictates what the final wine will be like. However, there is something else that is far more important regarding what a finished wine will taste like — “terroir.”

This all-encompassing buzzword or concept has always been important to “Old World” (European) producers, but is now being embraced big time by the “New World” (everywhere else).

So, what is terroir? Simply put, it is the natural environment of a piece of land that grows grapes. This reflects all aspects of climate, soil, and topography.

When it comes to climate, numerous factors play a part.

Temperature is a big one. Within wine grape growing regions of the world, those that are closer to the equator experience higher temperatures and those further away have cooler temps.

Hours of sunlight, its intensity, and heat units can play a huge part in the resulting grapes and, ultimately, the wine — especially red — produced from them.

Rainfall is another key issue to climate. Some regions get more, while others do not, and irrigation is imperative.

Surprisingly, wind is key in really warm growing areas as it helps cool the area by “air-conditioning” the vineyards. It’s also great in keeping moisture from building up between berries in bunches where the grapes grow tightly together, thus deferring rot from forming.

Soil is huge for obvious reasons.

After all, the grapes grow in it. Did you know, though, that all grapevines do not like “wet feet”? Rich soils that retain moisture (great for other fruits and veggies) waterlog their roots, which like to be stressed and have to go searching long distances for water. Well-drained soils

(both surface and sub-soils) such as gravel and clay work best. Certain varietals require more of some nutrients (chemical components) in the soil than others.

Finally, topography plays a huge part in terroir. What is referred to here is the lay of the land or aspect, elevation/altitude, and the degree and direction of any slope or incline affecting when the vineyard gets sun (morning or afternoon). All of these can impact on the raw material and, ultimately, the final wine.

Let Yourself Go. It’s as close to Heaven as you can get in a weekend.

Hiking Trails Wine Tastings Summer Theatre Art Galleries Historical Tours

How terroir is used A wine producer, by examining the topography carefully, doing a soil analysis, and matching a particular sub-climate or microclimate to a specific grape variety, can decide what will work best in a specific site.

Interestingly, terroir plays a bigger role in “uni-varietal” wines (those made up of only one grape variety) than those that are blended from several. Once grape varieties from different locales are mixed, the effect of their individual terroirs gets more homogenous or less defined.

Individual wine regions and subregions around the globe possess certain terroirs that are indicative in the characteristics of the wine they produce. Within those regional terroirs, specific vineyards and properties carry a little more complexity or detailed terroir of their own.

Book now at

tourmorgantown.com/RNews

© Edward Finstein, “The Wine Doctor,” 2017. “The Wine Doctor” is Edward Finstein, award-winning author, TV/radio host, renowned wine journalist, international wine judge, professor of wine, and consultant. For more information, visit: winedoctor.ca, twitter.com/ drwineknow, thewinedoctor. blogspot.com, winedoctor.ca/docsgrapevine.html, or facebook.com/ edwarddocfinstein?fref=ts.

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 15

west virginia I susan kim

Try riding and relaxing in welcoming Hardy County Motorcycle rides — plus a hand of poker, a little music, and some camping — are warm-weather pastimes in Hardy County, W.Va., a neck of the woods that’s welcoming to residents and visitors alike.

Folks like Steve Stevenson — you’ll spot him on his big Yamaha cruising around Lost City — will tell you about local rides. And, he’ll share an outlook on life that will help you slow your own pace down enough to enjoy the broad valleys and high ridges of the eastern Appalachian Mountains.

Situated across the border from Winchester and Frederick County, Va., Hardy County is, Stevenson said, simply stress-free.

“My wife and I get on the bike and there’s nothing else that makes any difference except the time we’ve ridden.”

He once joined a half-million other motorcyclists at the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota,

but he’s lived in Hardy County for more than 30 years. “In this area, there are a lot of nice little places to ride, and nice relaxing places you can go to. Some people camp, and there’s a little local motel with a few rooms.”

Stevenson — and his friends and family in the area’s small communities — organize annual rides, and might even spontaneously suggest a ride while you’re there.

“I’m all for relaxing,” Stevenson said. “Get out of the city and relax.

Come out here and ride all day on the backroads.”

Ride for a cause Each year, on the Saturday before Father’s Day, motorcyclists gather at the Mathias-Baker Fire House starting at 10:00am. They meander along a route that tops out at 100 miles as part of a fundraiser for the fire department. The ride, which has been held for a decade, is in memory of

a local, lifelong firefighter. Out-oftowners are welcome.

In addition to being a fundraiser for the firehouse, the ride is also a “Poker Run.” Bikers pick a card at three stops along the ride, plus they draw a card at the beginning and at the end.

The biker with the best hand wins, said organizer Robert Landacre.

And, the winner usually gives all or part of the money back in the spirit of giving that surrounds the ride.

Later in the season, the Broken Spoke restaurant in Needmore, W.Va., organizes a ride as a benefit for a scholarship in memory of a young girl who was killed in a car accident. Many bikers camp out at one of several local campgrounds, making a weekend of riding rounded out with music, food, and stories from locals. This year’s ride is Sept. 9.

day after the organized ride on Father’s Day weekend. Every Father’s Day, Landacre and his brother pick a ride and invite whoever wants to go. It’s not what Landacre calls “an organized ride,” but it’s bound to be interesting.

Last year, the group rode out to the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum located in Weston. The facility served as a sanctuary for the mentally ill in the mid-1800s, but today is a tourist attraction. The history of the building holds fascinating stories of Civil War raids, a gold robbery, the “curative” effects of architecture, and the efforts of determined individuals to help better the lives of the mentally ill.

Get the details by catching up to Landacre — or someone else — at the fire house.

Bonus ride

Hardy Co. Tourism: visithardywv.com

There’s an “unorganized ride” the

Learn more

A getaway to HARDY COUNTY changes everything.

Travel across the Mountain Skyway,* wander our backroads and Experience the Hardy Effect!

*WV Route 48

16 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

#HardyCounty

visithardywv.com

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

BEER, BOURBON, AND BBQ FESTIVAL

Through April 1. Beers, bourbons, lots of barbeque, and live music.

2200 York Road, The Cow Palace, Timonium, Md. 410-878-9900, beerandbourbon.com/maryland/show-info

PROGRESS AND PROMISE AGAINST CANCER

April 2017 April 10, Passover begins April 16, Easter

HOLIDAYS

EASTER FESTIVAL

April 8, 11:00am–2:00pm. Come meet the Easter Bunny, Quacks the Waterpark Duck, Southern Maryland superheroes, and other characters. Free treats and prizes for children. Kellam’s Field, Chesapeake Beach, Md. 410-257-2230, chesapeakebeachmd.gov/events_easter.htm

EGG HUNT April 8, 10:00am–noon. Fun for the entire family. Kids ages 3 to 10 can search for candy-filled eggs, visit with the 4-H rabbits, play family games, and dye eggs. Cromwell Valley Park, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-887-2503, cromwellvalleypark.org

BUNNY BONANZA April 12, 10:00am–2:00pm. Meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy handson crafts and exhibits for all ages. Heritage Farm Museum, Claude Moore Park, Sterling, Va. heritagefarmmuseum.org

EASTER DECOY AND ART FESTIVAL April 14–15. Local and national carvers and artists exhibit their work.

Awards are given in various carving categories, art, and photography. Hand-carved and/or painted wooden Easter eggs designed by various exhibitors will be offered in a silent auction. 6733 Maddox Blvd., Chincoteague Island, Va. chincoteaguedecoyshow.com

CHESAPEAKE EGGSTRAVAGANZA April 15, 11:00am. Children should bring a basket or bag for the egg hunt. Children may join Peter Cottontail for a picture. Free to the public. Chesapeake City Park, 900 Greenbrier Parkway, Chesapeake, Va. 757-382-6411, cityofchesapeake.net

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION April 22, 9:00am–5:00pm. Watch the animals receive toys, treats, and other enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors. Learn ways to help the environment by reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, and learn how to build and garden green. Virginia Living Museum, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News, Va. 757-595-1900, thevlm.org

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION April 29, 11:00am–3:00pm. Earth Day art show, birds of prey demonstration, guided hikes, native plant sale by Lauren’s Garden Service, environmental games, and crafts. Benjamin Banneker Park, 300 Oella Ave., Catonsville, Md. 410-887-1081

April 1, 8:30am–12:15pm. Free public event with experts in the cancer field. Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H St. NW, Washington, D.C. aacr.org

ANNAPOLIS FILM FESTIVAL Through April 2. The excitement of this four-day festival returns.

Features narrative and documentary films in all genres. Citywide, Annapolis, Md. 410-280-0445, visitannapolis.org

LIGHT CITY BALTIMORE Through April 8. Featuring seven nights of free, family-friendly attractions, including 28 large-scale original works of light art. More than 50 concerts,100 performances, and six innovation conferences dedicated to sparking social change called Labs at LightCity. Baltimore, Md. baltimore.org/campaign/light-city-baltimore

NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Through April 16. Four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Washington, D.C. 202-638-8374, nationalcherryblossomfestival.org

CHICKEN WING FESTIVAL April 1, 11:00am–7:00pm. Taste the best and most inventive chicken wing recipes from the area’s best chefs, all while enjoying a local and regional craft beer selection. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, Crownsville, Md. 410-280-0445, visitannapolis.org/events

LEWISBURG CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL April 9. Downtown shops and eateries, along with professional confection makers and local nonprofits offer individual chocolate samples for a ticket. Washington Street, Lewisburg, W.Va. 800-8332068, lewisburgchocolatefestival.com

TOM TOM FOUNDERS FESTIVAL April 10–16, 9:00am–11:00pm. With more than 60 bands, 200 speakers, and 400 community organizations, the festival spills through outdoor spaces, theaters, galleries, and concert halls. Charlottesville, Va. 239-297-6297, tomtomfest.com

INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL April 15, 10:00am–5:00pm. Explore the sights, sounds, and tastes from 30 cultures across the globe. Hampton’s Mill Point Park and Queen’s Way, Hampton, Va. hampton.gov/parks/icf

SOUTHWEST WATERFRONT FESTIVAL April 15. A highlight of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the free event features music, water-related activities, cultural experiences, live entertainment, and fireworks. Southwest Waterfront, Washington, D.C. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/fireworks

MY LADY’S MANOR STEEPLECHASE RACES April 15. The afternoon includes four steeplechase races. In addition to the races, guests will enjoy live bluegrass music, food vendors, and horse-themed merchandise tents and exhibits. Ladew Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Md. 410-557-9466, ladewgardens.com

BLACKSBURG CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL April 15, 11:00am–4:00pm. Live bands, wine and beer garden, kids’ activities, chocolate and wine pairings, and more than 20,000 pieces of artisan chocolate at approximately 50 tasting site locations along the festival route. Blacksburg, Va. 540-818-1770, rotarychocolate.weebly.com

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL April 1, 12:30–4:00pm. Enjoy traditional Japanese music, dance, arts, and martial arts demonstrations. Concessions and various cultural vendors will be available. Red Wing Park, 1398 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, Va. 757-385-2990, vbgov.com

LOVE FEST April 2, 2:00–6:00pm. More than 100 Zumba and MixxedFit instructors coming together to rock the stage and celebrate fitness, music, culture, and camaraderie. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Va. 757-315-1610, visithampton.com/hrcc

PRO SPORTS

SPRING CRAFT FAIR April 8, 11:00am–4:00pm. “Pig Cookin” contest, barbecue cook-off, live music, vintage car cruise-in, Civil War and Revolutionary War encampments, demonstrations in weaving and blacksmithing, pig bike ride, and chainsaw art. Spencer Penn Centre, 475 Spencer Penn Road, Spencer, Va. 276-957-5757, thecentreatspencerpenn.com

EAST COAST SHE CRAB SOUP CLASSIC April 8, 12:30–2:30pm. Savor some of the area’s finest soup and cast your vote. Winners will be announced at the end of the event, receiving plaques and bragging rights for the year. 24th Street Park, Virginia Beach, Va. 800-822-3224, visitvirginiabeach.com

SEA GLASS AND COASTAL ARTS FESTIVAL April 8–9. Enjoy 35 plus artisans from all over the East Coast. Ophiuroidea, St. Michaels, Md. 410-745-8057, ophiuroidea.com

ANACOSTIA RIVER FESTIVAL April 9, 1:00–5:00pm. The festival features a wide variety of activities, including outdoor recreation, musical performances, photography exhibition, and bike parade. Anacostia Park Southeast, Washington, D.C. bridgepark.org/anacostia-river-festival

WASHINGTON WIZARDS AT HOME Tuesday, April 4, vs. Charlotte, 7:00pm Saturday, April 8, vs. Miami, 12:00pm Wednesday, April 13, vs. Atlanta, 8:00pm

The Wizards play home games at Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. Call 202-661-5050 or visit nba.com/wizards.

WASHINGTON CAPITALS AT HOME Wednesday, April 5, vs. New York, 8:00pm Sunday, April 9, vs. Florida, 7:00pm

The Capitals play home games at Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. Call 202-397-SEAT or visit washingtoncaps.com.

BALTIMORE ORIOLES AT HOME Monday, April 3, vs. Blue Jays, 3:05pm Wednesday, April 5, vs. Blue Jays, 7:05pm Friday, April 7, vs. Yankees, 7:05pm Saturday, April 8, vs. Yankees, 4:05pm Sunday, April 9, vs. Yankees, 1:35pm Friday, April 21, vs. Red Sox, 7:05pm Saturday, April 22, vs. Red Sox, 7:05pm Sunday, April 23, vs. Red Sox, 1:35pm Monday, April 24, vs. Rays, 7:05pm Tuesday, April 25, vs. Rays, 7:05pm Wednesday, April 26, vs. Rays, 7:05pm

The Orioles play home games at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, 333 W. Camden St., Baltimore. Call 888-848-BIRD or visit baltimore.orioles.mlb.com.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS AT HOME Monday, April 3, vs. Marlins, 1:05pm Wednesday, April 5, vs. Marlins, 7:05pm Thursday, April 6, vs. Marlins, 4:05pm Monday, April 10, vs. Cardinals, 7:05pm Tuesday, April 11, vs. Cardinals, 7:05pm Wednesday, April 12, vs. Cardinals, 4:05pm Friday, April 14, vs. Phillies, 4:05pm Saturday, April 15, vs. Phillies, 1:05pm Sunday, April 16, vs. Phillies, 1:35pm Friday, April 28, vs. Mets, 7:05pm Saturday, April 29, vs. Mets, 1:05pm Sunday, April 30, vs. Mets, 1:35pm

The Nationals play home games at Nationals Park, 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. Call 202-397-SEAT (7328) or visit washington.nationals. mlb.com

D.C. UNITED AT HOME

Saturday, April 1, vs. Philadelphia, 7:00pm Saturday, April 8, vs. New York, 4:00pm D.C. United plays home games at RFK Stadium, 2400 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. Call 202-587-5000 or visit dcunited.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 17

FILMFEST D.C.

HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK

WINEFEST WEEKEND

April 20–30. The city’s oldest film festival returns this year. Features a wide range of films from around the globe, including features, documentaries, comedies, shorts, and award winners. Multiple venues around Washington, D.C. filmfestdc.org

April 22–29. House and garden tours offered throughout Virginia in the nation’s largest “open house.” vagardenweek.org

April 29–30. Wine lovers can taste and buy more than 400 diverse wines at 15 venues throughout St. Michaels. stmichaelsmd.org

PORK IN THE PARK FESTIVAL

FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

BETHESDA LITERARY FESTIVAL April 21–23. Downtown Bethesda celebrates the diversity of modern literature at the popular Bethesda Literary Festival, now in its 18th year. Events are held at various downtown Bethesda, Md., venues. 301-215-6660, bethesda.org/bethesda/bethesda-literary-festival

DCTC CAR SHOW AND AG FEST April 22, 9:00am–3:00pm. Car show, plant sale, and agriculture festival at Dorchester Career and Technology Center. Family event. Cambridge, Md. 410-901-6950, dctcgreenhouse.com/dctc-spring-car-show-event.html

WATERFRONT SPRING FESTIVAL April 22, noon–6:00pm. Family-friendly festival featuring a kid zone, live music, vendor booths, food trucks, and appearances

by Ravens players. Rash Field, Baltimore, Md. 541-601-5104, bmorespringfest.com

NATIONAL MATH FESTIVAL April 22. The family-friendly event will include lectures, hands-on demonstrations, art, films, performances, puzzles, games, and children’s book readings. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place NW, Washington, D.C. dcconvention.com

NEW TOWN CHALK FEST April 22, 10:00am–4:30pm. Led by nationally renowned chalk art professional Holland Winslow. Whether you are a professional, amateur, or young adult, enter to win cash and have a great time.

Williamsburg, Va. 757-565-6200, newtownwilliamsburg.com

VIRGINIA AIR AND SPACE CENTER April 22. A 25th anniversary evening celebration featuring a culinary tour of local restaurants, live entertainment, and a variety of exciting auction packages. 600 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, Va. 757-727-0900, vasc.org

VIRGINIA OUTDOOR LOVERS EXPO April 22, 10:00am–4:00pm. Live music, beer, raffle tickets, and giveaways. Free events for everyone from the novice naturelover to the more advanced folks who are looking for that next adrenaline rush. Bisset Park, 23 Berkley Williams Drive, Radford, Va. 540-639-9313

April 22–23. Offers live music, activities for the kids, hot air balloons, unique craft vendors, delicious food, and cold beverages. WinterPlace Park, 6737 Blue Ribbon Road, Salisbury, Md. 410-548-4900, porkinthepark.org

VIRGINIA TECH INTERNATIONAL FAIR April 23, 8:00am–6:00pm. International and cultural student groups celebrate and share their traditions and heritage as a way to foster meaningful interactions throughout the Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, and Christiansburg community. Blacksburg, Va. international.vt.edu

FACING CHAOS April 27. The ninth annual Blackbird Poetry Festival, featuring award-winning writer and slam poet Tyehimba Jess. Smith Theatre, Horowitz Center, Howard Community College, Columbia, Md. 443518-4568, hocopolitso.org

VIRGINIA INTERNATIONAL TATTOO April 27–30. The largest spectacle of music and might in the United States offers an astounding display of inspirational military music, majestic massed pipes and drums, show-stopping drill team maneuvers, and colorful and elegant dancers. Scope Arena, Norfolk, Va. 877-741-2787, vafest.org/tattoo

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS April 28–30, May 5–7. A fun-filled event that provides children of all ages the opportunity to climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas, as well as participate in Thomas and Friends-themed activities. Baltimore, Md. 866-468-7630, borail.org

CAPE MAY’S SPRING CELEBRATION April 28–May 7. Celebrate the arrival of springtime in America’s first seaside resort, with private homes tour, ghost tours, murder mystery dinners, food and wine events, and living history programs.

Cape May, N.J. 609-884-5404, capemaymac.org

SHENANDOAH APPLE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL April 28–May 7. A series of more than 40 events includes band competitions, dances, parades, carnival, dinners, luncheons, wine festival, a 10K race, the coronation of Queen Shenandoah, two large parades, and celebrities. Winchester, Va. thebloom.com

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL April 29. Offering 50 craft beers, with 25 breweries represented by local and popular national brands. Also, a wide variety of delicious food from the buffet on the beach. Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa, 4165 Mears Ave., Chesapeake Beach, Md. 866-312- 5596, cbresortspa.com

PICK YOUR DESTINATIONS ... SEND THE FORM ... GET FREE INFO! ❑ Bath County, VA ❑ Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce ❑ Beach Getaways ❑ Bedford Area Welcome Center ❑ Bethany Beach, DE ❑ BlackBear Resort ❑ Boardwalk Plaza Hotel ❑ Buena Vista, VA ❑ Cabin Rentals ❑ Cape May, NJ ❑ Caroline County, MD ❑ Carroll County, MD ❑ Chesapeake Beach Hotel & Spa ❑ Chesapeake, Va ❑ Colonial Beach, VA ❑ Country Road Cabins ❑ Cruise & Land Travel ❑ Cruise.com ❑ Cruises ❑ Currituck, NC ❑ Deep Creek Lake, MD ❑ Delaware Getaways ❑ Downriver Canoe ❑ Dunes Manor Hotel ❑ Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad ❑ Eastern Shore of MD ❑ Family Getaways ❑ Fayetteville, NC ❑ Fox Hill Bed & Breakfast Suites ❑ Franklin County, PA ❑ Front Royal Canoe Company ❑ Front Royal, VA ❑ Gage Mansion Bed & Breakfast ❑ Garrett County, MD ❑ Garth Newel Music Center ❑ Georgetown, DE

❑ Gettysburg Tours ❑ Gettysburg, PA ❑ Grant County, WV ❑ Hardy County,WV ❑ Historic Getaways ❑ Hummingbird Inn ❑ Huntingdon County, PA ❑ Indiana County, PA ❑ Inn at Corolla Light ❑ James River Realty ❑ Jamestown Yorktown, VA ❑ Kilmarnock, VA ❑ Lewis County, WV ❑ Lexington Carriage Company ❑ Lexington, VA ❑ LTD Vacations ❑ Luray Caverns Golf ❑ Luray, VA ❑ Lynchburg,VA ❑ Majestic Theater ❑ Martinsburg, WV ❑ Maryland Getaways ❑ Massanutten Resort ❑ Mid Atlantic Air Museum ❑ Military Aviation Museum ❑ Morattico Waterfront Museum ❑ Morgantown, WV ❑ Mountain Getaways ❑ Mountain Lake Lodge ❑ Nelson County, VA ❑ Newport News, VA ❑ Northern Neck of VA ❑ Oak Island Accommodations ❑ Ocean City, MD ❑ Oragne County, VA ❑ Outdoor Getaways ❑ Page County, VA ❑ Pennsylvania Getaways

❑ Pocahontas County, WV ❑ Posey Thisisit Llama Farm ❑ Quality Inn - Shenandoah ❑ Railey Mountain Lake Vacations ❑ Rockhill Trolley Museum ❑ Romantic Getaways ❑ Route 11 Potato Chips ❑ Sandals Resorts ❑ Seaford, DE ❑ Seminary Ridge Museum ❑ Shenandoah County, VA ❑ Shenandoah River Outfitters ❑ Shepherdstown, WV ❑ Smith Mountain Lake, VA ❑ Smithfield/Isle of Wight, VA ❑ Smithfield Inn ❑ South River Highlands Country Retreat ❑ Southern Maryland ❑ St. Michaels, MD ❑ Stratford Hall Plantation ❑ Surry County Tourism ❑ Talbot County, MD ❑ The Lost Colony ❑ The Woods ❑ Train Trips ❑ Virginia Getaways ❑ Virginia Living Museum ❑ Virginia State Parks ❑ VMI Museum ❑ Warren County, VA ❑ West Virginia Getaways ❑ Williamsburg Farmers Market ❑ Wilson, NC ❑ Wisp Resort ❑ Woodloch Pines ❑ York County, VA ❑ Send all the borchures!

Enter to WIN one of our GREAT PRIZES!!! Contest details on page VA-11.

Your Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________State: __________ Zip: _________________ Email: _____________________________________________________________________________

Check here

to “Go Green” (we’ll send you information by email)

OR MAIL form to: RecNews Reader Info, 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 OR FAX form to: 410-638-6902 ... OR EMAIL form to: publisher@RecreationNews.com

18 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

April 29–30. Enjoy food and wine pairing, artisanal and organic products, and lectures on culinary and wine trends. National Harbor, Md. nationalharbor.com

Restaurant Weeks

TALBOT RESTAURANT WEEK

April 2–8. Participating restaurants offer prix fix lunches and dinners, many with special menus showcasing their finest dishes. Harrison Street, Easton, Md. 410-770-8000, talbotrestaurantweek.com

WILMINGTON RESTAURANT WEEK April 3–8. Fifteen restaurants to select from, offering everything from Thai to Chilean to Italian. Participating restaurants in Wilmington, Del. cityrestaurantweek.com

OCEAN CITY RESTAURANT WEEK April 23–May 7. Participating restaurants offer special fixed price menus, in addition to their regular menus. Throughout Ocean City, Md. 410-289-6733, oceancityrestaurantweek.com

NOW SHOWING

PEEPSHOW April 7–19, 10:00am–7:00pm. Vote for your favorites from nearly 200 marshmallow sculptures, dioramas, mosaics, and videos, crafted from or inspired by sugary sweet Peeps. 91 W. Main St., Westminster, Md. 410-848-7272, carrollcountyartscouncil.org

WORLD PEEPS EATING CHAMPIONSHIP April 8. Peeps Day includes a variety of activities, along with contests and prizes. A Peeps diorama contest will be held before the eating contest. National Harbor, Md. nationalharbor.com

CARROLL COUNTY HOME SHOW April 8–9. Meet expert suppliers who can help you discover new ideas and options to transform your home and property. Free admission. Carroll County Ag Center, Westminster, Md. 443-417-0101, carrollcountyagcenter.com

OCEAN CITY BRIDAL SHOW April 9, 1:00–4:00pm. The beach’s top wedding vendors attend this tropical bayside venue. Enjoy free appetizers, dessert samples, entertainment, dance demos, and bridal fashion. Seacrets, Ocean City, Md. 410-289-7699, roxbeachweddings.com/ocean_city_bridal_show

HOME AND LIVING EXPO

NIGHT ON THE WILD SIDE

TRIBUTE TO ELLA FITZGERALD

April 9–10. All things home-related, food trucks, mobile boutique, gypsy catwalk fashion show, upcycle design challenge, and kids’ zone. Rockingham County Fairgrounds, 4808 S. Valley Pike, Harrisonburg, Va. 540-860-1281, valleybuilders.org

April 20, 5:00–8:00pm. Promotes public awareness of and support for the Patuxent National Wildlife Refuge. There will be food, adult beverages, narrated tram tours, and friendly critters to welcome you. National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, Laurel, Md. friendsofpatuxent.org

April 30, 3:00pm. The tribute features the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. Capitol Theatre, Chambersburg, Pa. thecapitoltheatre.org

SADDLEBRED HORSE SHOW April 21–22. Show benefits the Old Dominion Futurity, featuring three-gaited, five-gaited, fine harness, park, pleasure prospect, equitation, academy, children’s, and fun classes. Virginia Horse Center, 487 Maury River Road, Lexington, Va. 540-464-2950, horsecenter.org

COUNTRYSIDE ARTISAN STUDIO TOUR April 21-23. A free, self-guided driving tour of artists’ studios in Montgomery County, Md. countrysideartisans.com

GARDENS, GALLERIES, AND GRAPES April 22-23, 10:00am-5:00pm. Shenandoah County’s annual Open Door Tour features 80 artisans and a host of demonstrations at 24 locations throughout the county. Visitshenandoahcounty.com

ANNAPOLIS SPRING SAILBOAT SHOW April 28–30. The perfect place to explore what defines a sailing lifestyle, or to finally make plans to spend the upcoming lazy days of summer sailing. Annapolis, Md. annapolisboatshows.com

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

KENWOOD SEASONAL WALK

Through May 9. Start at 7:00am and finish by 6:00pm. Walk during daylight hours only. Start/finish point is at Starbucks Coffee, 4611-E Sangamore Road, Bethesda, Md. 301-946-5496, sugarloafers.org

SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK April 22, 11:00am. The group will explore an easy half-mile trail that meanders through several types of habitat. Ranger Loncosky will acquaint participants with the wildflowers that are blooming and explain why they grow in particular places and when they flower.

Catoctin Mountain Park, Thurmont, Md. 301-663-9388, nps.gov

MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL KITE EXPO April 28–30. Great spectator and participant event that brings three fun-filled days of kite flying on beautiful beaches. Second to Sixth streets, Ocean City, Md. 410-289-7855, ococean.com

ROAR FOR KIDS April 29. The event will be a fun-filled day with a meaningful purpose, featuring a 5K run, low-mileage fun walk, and a family festival.

After running or walking, participants will enjoy the family festival, featuring music, face painting, a balloon artist, a coloring station, a bean-bag toss, oversized croquet, refreshments, and the Mascot Challenge. Oregon Ridge Park, 13401 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville, Md. 443-923-7300, roarforkids.kennedykrieger.org

ADAM THOMPSON 5K RUN/WALK April 30, 8:00am. The race honors the memory of Adam Thompson, a first-year Harford Community College student who was killed in an automobile accident in 2011. Harford Community College, 401 Thomas Run Road, Bel Air, Md. 443-412-2449, harford.edu/adam

MUSIC

HELL CLIMB 10K April 1, 9:00am. A 6.5-mile hill climb from the base of Mountain Lake to the cool clear air at the summit. Runners will ascend more than 1,800 feet as they follow Mountain Lake Road. Giles County Tourism, 115 Hotel Circle, Pembroke, Va. 540-330-7051, triadventure.com/hell-climb-10k

Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral UMD WIND ORCHESTRA: EXOTIC BIRDS

April 1, 8:00–11:00am. The 5K or 1K will benefit the Salvation Army. Norfolk Waterfront/Harbor Park, Norfolk, Va. 757-880-8843, kettlekrush5k.com

April 7, 8:00–10:00pm. Faculty member Rita Sloan joins UMWO for a performance of Messiaen’s showpiece Oiseaux Exotiques — a mixture of songs from birds. The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland, College Park, Md. 301-405-2787, theclarice.umd.edu

SOTTERLEY’S 5K TRAIL RUN

TCHAIKOVSKY’S SYMPHONY NO. 5

KETTLE KRUSH 5K

April 1. All proceeds benefit Sotterley’s critical educational programming. Sotterley, Hollywood, Md. 301-373-2280, sotterley.org

WILDFLOWER WALK April 8, 10:00am. Virginia Native Plant Society docent tour guide and wildflower expert leads arboretum visitors to notable arboretum wildflowers. ECJ Arboretum, 780 University Blvd., Harrisonburg, Va. 540-568-3194, jmu.edu/arboretum

AFRICAN VIOLET SOCIETY SHOW AND SALE April 14–16. Free to the public; regular admission to enter the garden. Interesting and unusual African violet varieties on display and for purchase. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, Va. 804-262-9887, lewisginter.org

April 9, 2:30–4:00pm. Well-known to Virginia Symphony Orchestra audiences, composer Kenneth Fuchs presents a world premiere. This is a continuation of more than 30 years of collaboration between Fuchs and music director JoAnn Falletta.

Sandler Center, 201 Market St., Virginia Beach, Va. 757-385-2787, sandlercenter.org/index.php

MUSSORGSKY’S PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION

April 22–23. Grammy-winning Z uil l B ail ey plays a 300-year-old cello. A kids’ instrument petting zoo will be available before the afternoon performance, and tickets for children are free. Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, Md. 301-581-5100, nationalphilharmonic.org

Popular/Other

MORNING BIRD WALKS April 14, 8:30–10:00am. The early bird gets the most sightings. Join a naturalist for this early morning bird walk on the second Friday of the month starting in March. Learn to identify birds by sight and sound. Oregon Ridge Nature Center, 13555 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville, Md. 410-887-1815

April 18, 7:00pm. John Paul Jones Arena, 295 Massie Road, Charlottesville, Va. 434-243-4960, johnpauljonesarena.com

UNITED STATES SAILBOAT SHOW

Bay Bridge Marina - Stevensville, MD

City Dock - Annapolis, MD

ANNAPOLIS SPRING SAILBOAT SHOW

UNITED STATES POWERBOAT SHOW

City Dock - Annapolis, MD

City Dock - Annapolis, MD

April 21-23, 2017

April 28-30, 2017

CRUISERS UNIVERSITY:

Through April 2. The third in a trilogy of literary adaptations along with Gatz (The Great Gatsby) and The Sound and the Fury. Lansburgh Theatre, 450 Seventh St. NW, Washington, D.C. shakespearetheatre.org

THE FANTASTIKS April 21–May 21. Chesapeake Shakespeare presents its first musical, brimming with memorable songs and the story of young love and meddling fathers. Chesapeake Shakespeare, 7 S. Calvert St., Baltimore, Md. 410-244-8571, chesapeakeshakespeare.com

ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA Through April 23. This presentation will be the very first time that modern audiences will be able to hear Antony and Cleopatra spoken the way Shakespeare’s audiences would have heard it when it was first performed in the early 1600s. The Great Hall at St. Mary’s Community Center, Baltimore, Md. 410-662-9455, baltimoreshakespearefactory.org

FUN HOME April 18–May 13. A refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-628-6161, funhomemusical.com

Dance WINDMILLS INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL April 1, noon–6:30pm. Nine traditional dance groups performing dances from northern, central, and eastern Europe. International cuisine and ethnic food and vendors. 851 Hollins St., Baltimore, Md. 443-694-8161

REVISION DANCE COMPANY

April 1–2. The contemporary dance work poses unanswerable questions on themes of individuality, community, and expression.

Dance Place, 3225 Eighth St. NE, Washington, D.C. 202-269-1600, danceplace.org

DANCETHOS WITH GIN DANCE COMPANY April 8, 7:00pm. With dances ranging from intimate and evocative to fierce and explosive, tender and introspective to energizing and whimsical, this performance is sure to have something for every audience member. Kreeger Auditorium at the Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, 6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, Md. dancethos.org

Exhibits Featured Exhibitions SHAKESPEARE FIRST FOLIO

THE CHAINSMOKERS

BAY BRIDGE BOAT SHOW

Theater THE SELECT THE SUN ALSO RISES

Ongoing. Always on display at the Folger, the 1623 First Folio includes almost all of Shakespeare’s plays. It is also our only source for 18 of them, including Macbeth, The Tempest, and As You Like It, which would otherwise have been lost. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St., Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu

October 5-9, 2017

October 12-15, 2017

SPRING: April 27-30, 2017 - FALL: October 9-12, 2017

BUY TICKETS TODAY! Visit Our Website:

AnnapolisBoatShows.com

410-268-8828

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 19

TREASURES FROM OXFORD

CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN ART

CIVIL WAR LIVING HISTORY WEEKEND

Through April 30. A selection of 50 manuscripts and early printed books, ranging in date from the 10th to the 17th centuries, is being brought to America for the first time. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu

Through June 18. Each artist offers pointedly political perspectives on the lives of Africans and their diasporic descendants. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443573-1700, artbma.org

ON PAPER: FINDING FORM

THE ART OF LOUISE B. WHEATLEY

Through April 30. This exhibition celebrates one of the strengths of the BMA’s collection: contemporary drawings that combine an interest in pure, refined geometric form with a desire to use materials expressively. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org

Through July 30. This intimate exhibition celebrates the 40-year career of Maryland artist Louise B. Wheatley. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org

April 1–2, 9:30am–5:00pm. The event will consist of both Union and Confederate reenactors portraying the 1861 “Camp Ruffin” and 1864 Battle of Smithfield troops, respectively. Other activities include weapons demonstrations, guest speakers, and food vendors.

Historic St. Luke’s Church, 14477 Benns Church Blvd., Smithfield, Va. 757-357-3367, historicstlukes.org

SHANGHAI PASSAGES

Through April 30. The artists represent an alternative and contemporary vision to the traditional realism of the Delaware Valley. Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St., Dover, Del. biggsmuseum.org

Through Oct. 3. Unique to Shanghai, longtang are a type of community, started in the late 19th century, in which the traditional Chinese courtyard home is adapted to the urban townhouse format.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-3401400, vmfa.museum

REMEMBERING AUSCHWITZ

WOODBLOCK PRINTS BY KAWASE HASUI

Through May 29. Four interrelated exhibits explore the concept of memory and commemoration by focusing on a town that became synonymous with the Holocaust. Stories of the local community of Holocaust survivors are included. Jewish Museum of Maryland, 15 Lloyd St., Baltimore, Md. 410-732-6400, jewishmuseummd.org

Through Oct. 3. Created by Hasui between 1924 and 1953, the works displayed here, which depict scenes of mountains and hills across Japan, represent the country’s yet-untouched austerity, serenity, and beauty. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum

SYNE LANGUAGE

TAMAR GUIMARÃES AND KASPER AKHØ

SHARKABEL

Through June 11. The 14-minute black-and-white film is a meditative look at the mediums who communicate with the dead and engage in psychic healing practices. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org

Through December. The exhibit is based on the book by Ray Troll and features the author’s whimsical fishy paintings of both living and extinct species of shark. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a different type of shark. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons, Md. 410-326-2042, calvertmarinemuseum.com

DETECTING FAKES April 1–Jan. 7. Visitors will see more than 40 examples of fakes and forgeries from the Winterthur collection and public and private sources, and discover the motives for their creation and the evidence used in their detection.

Winterthur Museum, 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, Del. winterthur.org

REINSTALLATION CELEBRATION April 7, 7:00–9:00pm. View the museum’s newly acquired artifacts and redesigned display cases. Before the evening ends, settle into a comfortable space and listen to the sounds of the flute quartet Fortitude, and enjoy the captivating performance of a storyteller. Benjamin Banneker Park, 300 Oella Ave., Catonsville, Md. 410-887-1081

ST. MICHAELS ART April 8–30. Explore the 75-year art career of St. Michaels watercolorist Barbara Jablin, from her early work as a courtroom artist and illustrator to today’s exquisite paintings. A.M. Gravely Gallery, St. Michaels, Md. amgravelygallery.com

History AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM Through April 4. Celebrate the opening of the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Features an introductory film, timeline, immersive exhibition galleries, and living-history experiences that show the epic scale of the Revolution and the richness and complexity of the country’s Revolutionary heritage. Yorktown, Va. 888593-4682, historyisfun.org

CIVIL WAR AND EMANCIPATION DAY April 8, 10:00am–4:00pm. Family-friendly programs explore the roles of education and voting during and after the American Civil War. Activities will include speakers, a keynote address, performances, displays, and hands-on activities. Historic Tredegar, Richmond, Va. 804-649-1861, ext. 124, acwm.org/calendar-events

OPENING OF NEW CLASSIC MOTOR MUSEUM April 17. The new Classic Motor Museum will be open Thursdays through Sundays, beginning April 17.

FAIRFAX CIVIL WAR DAY April 29, 10:00am–5:00pm. Living history programs, infantry and cannon firings, scholarly talks, military drills, historic house tours, Civil War music, wagon rides, youth activities, and barbecue. Proceeds benefit the restoration of Historic Blenheim. Historic Blenheim, 3610 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax, Va. fairfaxva.gov/ government/historic-resources/civil-war-interpretive-center

Lectures/Workshops/Classes MR. PRATT PRESENTS: RON CHERNOW April 8, 6:00–10:00 pm. An evening to celebrate this great American historian and storyteller. Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour and seated dinner featuring Chernow’s works and related conversations. 3800 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. prattlibrary.org/mrpratt

TOURS ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE April 9, 1:00–5:00pm. Tour the environmental center and boat shop.

Free admission and light refreshments. Maritime Museum, 100 Lafayette St., Havre de Grace, Md. hdgmaritimemuseum.org

O THER SHREK ON ICE April 1–2. The figure skating portrayal of the green ogre who lives happily in the swamp and falls in love with Princess Fiona. The Gardens Ice House, Laurel, Md. 301-922-4958, gardensfsc.org

OPEN COCKPIT SEASON April 8, 9:00am–1:00pm. A day of aviation fun providing visitors the opportunity to sit in the pilot seats of airplanes. Visitors can climb aboard a 1950s Martin 404 passenger plane and B57A Canberra built onsite by the Glenn L. Martin Company. Maryland Air Museum, 701 Wilson Point Road, Middle River, Md. 410-682-6122, mdairmuseum.org

recreationnews.com | 410-638-6901 | fax: 410-638-6902 Mailing Address: 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore MD 21221

THE OFFICIAL MEDIA OF 55 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATIONS Advisory Panel — Renee Bolden, Clement Jackson, Karl Teel, Nadine Wright, Melissa Birdsall, Michelle Flowers, and Teresa Knoll Publisher, Recreation News — Karl Teel

RecreationNews.com | GovPerk.com Websites, email blasts, radio vignettes, digital magazines, newspaper, conferences, on site displays, and social media — Every way to reach the federal workforce!

E-mail: Publisher@RecreationNews.com 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 @LivePlayDo Phone: 301-474-4600 • Fax: 410-638-6902 © 2017, Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Recreation News st eo l p l t on to mo e t n government agencies and is published monthly by the Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Subscriptions by mail are $15 per year (12 issues). Corporate and bulk employee subscriptions are free. Contact the publisher at the address or telephone number listed above. Items in Recreation News may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written consent.

Publisher — Karl Teel Editor — Marvin Bond Calendar Editor — Jessica Bosse Copy Editor — Andrea Ebeling Cover Design — Nate Miller Web Support — Ron Yarnick and Sam Pardee Layout & Art — Beth Wood Accounting — Kitty Henry

20 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

e n n l ll n e Production — Dan Yasick Shipping — Sam Parisee Mailing — Gerrard Wilson Marketing — Nate Miller Data Mgt. — Carolyn Grover Digital Media Manager — Ellen Matis Government Liaison / Account Executive — Amanda Williams

adventures in taste I reed hellman

Maple syrup: How sweet it is!

It was my habit, late each winter, to join a crew of backpackers trekking in New Hampshire’s Presidential Range. Capped by the notorious Mount Washington, arctic-like temperatures and brutal weather approximated the conditions found on mountains three or four times the elevation.

Late in February or early in March, a high-pressure dome can bring a stretch of clear skies and steely cold, the perfect elements for a three-day ascent.

Although 500 feet lower than its neighbor, Mount Adams is a beast to climb any time of the year. In a swirling snow squall, a trail from the north led us along a stand of winter bare trees.

Through the drifting haze, the trees looked to be all roped together, leashed one to the other with some kind of cable, strung trunk to trunk about waist-high. Partially obscured by the winddriven whiteout, the sight was eerily mysterious and vaguely ominous.

It took a long moment to realize that I was looking at a sugar bush, a stand of sugar maple trees tapped for their sap. Those “cables” were tubing, connected to a metal tap driven into each tree, collecting the sap. The myriad tubes led downhill to a gathering point where the sugar-rich sap was processed into maple syrup.

Although maple syrup production centers in Vermont and Quebec, the western, upland portions of the Mid-Atlantic also support the stands of maples required to harvest commercial quantities of sap.

A typical Appalachian sugar bush is a family business, handed down through generations, but often enhanced with modern technology. Traditionally, wooden taps driven into holes bored into

the trees directed the “maple water” into a collecting bucket, hung from the tap. Considerable lifting, hauling, and carrying brought the maple water to the “sugar camp” for processing.

In a more contemporary operation, 30 acres of red and sugar maples can take 7,000 metal taps at two to three taps per tree, feeding into 17 to 18 miles of tubing. A vacuum system, similar to a cowmilking machine, pulls a vacuum on the tubing and draws the maple water into a central sugar house.

The sap is then heated to evaporate much of the water, leaving the concentrated syrup. Some syrup makers use a reverse osmosis system to remove a portion of the water from the sap, saving on labor and firewood.

The amount of sugar in the sap varies widely, from tree to tree, day to day, and even within a single tree. Making a gallon of syrup can require from 20 to 50 gallons of maple water, depending on the sugar content.

Slow, carefully controlled boiling achieves the right color, clarity, consistency, and level of sucrose. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service issue standards for classifying maple syrup: u Grade A, with either golden color and a delicate taste, amber color and a rich taste, dark color and a robust taste, or very dark color and a strong taste u Processing grade u Substandard Along with containing all maple sap, to be considered “Grade A” the syrup cannot have any “off” flavors, must be a uniform color, and be clean and free from turbidity and sediment.

Maple syrup season in the Mid-Atlantic usually begins around the second week of February and runs until the end of March. Ideal conditions require nights with below-freezing temperatures and days that are above freezing, enabling the maple water to run freely.

This year, however, has been anything but ideal. For example, the grove of maples at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum in Oella, Md., failed to produce any quantity when tapped for the annual end-of-February maple syrup festival.

BUCKWHEAT PANCAKES 1 packet dry yeast 4 cups warm water 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon oil 1 tablespoon molasses 4 cups buckwheat flour (I use buckwheat ground at Wye Mill in Wye Mills, Md.) 1 teaspoon salt In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast into the warm water, stirring with a fork until dissolved. Add the flour and mix until smooth. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the mix stand overnight.

The next morning, add salt, molasses, soda, and oil, and mix thoroughly.

Bake on a lightly greased, hot griddle until golden brown, turning once.

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit his website, reedhellmanwordsmith.com, or email questions and comments to rhway2go@yahoo.com.

m usic f estival I gwen woolf

Cumberland’s DelFest ‘like a family reunion’ for area Bluegrass fans Bluegrass music as old as the hills and as new as today will liven up the Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, Md., for DelFest on Memorial Day weekend. Cumberland is in Western Maryland, about a 2 1/2-hour drive from Washington, D.C. The 10th annual music festival, scheduled for May 25–28, is always a crowd-pleaser, with 35,000 fans attending over the course of the event. A majority of attendees are from Maryland, Washington, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, but overall last year hailed from 45 states and 13 countries.

Bluegrass legend Del McCoury, who has entertained audiences for more than 50 years, is the star behind DelFest, which is produced in association with High Sierra Music. Back in the day, McCoury played with the likes of Bill Monroe & the Blue Grass Boys. Over the years, he has performed everywhere from the Grand Ole Opry to the Bonnaroo Music Festival. The York, Pa., native continues to appear on TV shows, has received nine Entertainer of the Year awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association, and as recently as 2014 won his second Grammy with The Del McCoury Band.

Other festival headliners include the Trey An-

astasio Band, Gov’t Mule, and The Travelin’ McCourys (with Dierks Bentley).

Like a family reunion “DelFest is like a family reunion,” said Chris Harris, who promotes the festival. “We have a lot of repeat customers whose kids have literally grown up with the festival. There are some 10-year-old kids that have been to every DelFest.

So, we are very family-friendly.”

Among the special aspects of the festival are the spontaneous collaborations that occur. Del McCoury pops in to play with some of the groups, and his son, Ronnie McCoury, regularly sits in on 10 to 12 sets during the weekend.

There is also an artist-at-large, who appears in numerous shows.

“There’s a mix of music, but it all comes back to the relationships with the McCoury family,” said Harris. “You won’t find another festival that can mix something as traditional a Junior Sisk with something as progressive as Gov’t Mule or Trey Anastasio (former front man for Phish). Del is the glue that holds it all together.”

Among other performers scheduled to appear are Bela Fleck and Chris Thile, Leftover Salmon,

Hot Rize, The Infamous Stringdusters, Steep Canyon Rangers, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, Sierra Hull, Jeff Austin Band, Cabinet, Donna the Buffalo, Fruition, Sara Watkins, Noam Pikelny, Billy Strings, Joe Craven & The Sometimers, Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice, and Dre’s Gospel Collective.

There also are late night jams that require a special ticket. Artist bios and other details are on the event’s website, delfest.com.

The atmosphere is relaxed, and includes the Kidzone with activities, an arts and crafts fair, movement play shops (such as yoga), and a variety of food and beverage vendors.

Attendees have the option of on-site camping, or lodging in nearby Cumberland, which has many shopping, arts, and dining opportunities.

Prior to the festival is a four-day DelFest Academy, during which all-star musicians teach various instruments to students of all levels.

The festival What: DelFest When: May 25–28 Where: Cumberland, Md. Info/tickets: delfest.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 21

c

c

ARIBBEAN

orner m ichelle &

k arl teel

Grab your partner and head to a Sandals Caribbean resort

K arl Teel

Learning to sail is one of many free activities at Sandals resorts.

Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel Ocean City, MD

k a e r B g n i r Sp Discount Package dates: April 9-13 & April 16-20

Following last month’s popular story on Sandal’s South Coast in Jamaica, we thought it wise to explore other Sandals resorts in this issue. Why Sandals? There are many reasons, but here are the most popular ones.

They are not just all-inclusive — they are more inclusive than other “all-inclusive” resorts. Offerings include premium wine and spirits (not the cheap stuff); motor sports such as waterskiing, banana boat rides, and sailing; unlimited golf and complimentary greens fees; free Wi-Fi; airport transfers; unlimited scuba diving; and the option to stay at one resort but play at the other neighboring Sandals properties to get a flavor of all of them. All entertainment is included, and it’s high-quality.

The accommodations can’t be beat. More ocean views, more updated rooms and common areas, and just plain more luxury head the list. Consider an upgrade to a butler suite, or the millionaire suites, two-story suites, sky-pool suites, or rondoval suites. There is something for every budget and every desire. You can opt for intimacy and privacy, all-out luxury, or an active mix. Whether this is a honeymoon, adventure, or de-stress vacation, something will fit just right.

Insider tip: Sandals loves the military and offers a 10 percent discount on current promotions to show its appreciation.

There are currently 16 Sandals resorts, each with its own unique flavor. Jamaica has seven San-

dals resorts covering the northern, western, and southern coasts: u Sandals Montego Bay This resort has the shortest ride from the airport, with all the luxury included at a central location. u Sandals Royal Caribbean Also in Montego Bay, this site is great when planning an easy stay-at-one and play-at-two resorts at nearby Montego Bay. u Sandals Negril On the west side of Jamaica, this property offers the best sunsets over the Caribbean and is not far from the famous Rick’s Café and cliff divers. u Sandals Royal Plantation This resort offers superb luxury not far from the famous Dunn’s River Falls and the attractions in Ocho Rios. u Sandals Ochi Also located in Ocho Rios, it is noted for its location, phenomenal pier, and all-butler village and Caribbean Riviera. u Sandals Inn A quaint 52-room hideaway in Montego Bay with a bed-and-breakfast ambience, the inn offers all the amenities of nearby sister properties. u Sandals South Coast Featured in the March issue of Recreation News,

Our front yard is in full bloom this spring Our front yard is in

LOWEST CRUISE PRICES GUARANTEED!

EXCLUSIVE CRUISE.COM OFFERS

*Free pre-paid Gratuities, up to $1200 Onboard Credit up to $900 Cash Back, Free Upgrades, Free Internet, Kids Sail Free, up to $350 Onboard Savings, Reduced Deposits and More!

Android Cruise.com Mobile App IPhone

full bloom this spring

Our front yard is in

full this spring Ourbloom front yard is in full bloom this spring

Shop Our Latest Deals On Your Smart Phone!

Download Cruise.com’s Free APP Now!

800-558-6061

Open 7 days

*All amenities are per stateroom on select sailings and select categories. CST #2015595-50

Rates as low as $79 per night!

• Special activities each day including magic shows, movie nights and bingo • Indoor heated pool • Cornhole by the pool

Sandals Resorts, the world’s only Luxury Included Sandals® Resorts, the world’s only Vacation for two people in love, now offers military Luxury Included® Vacation for two couples an additional 10% savings , year-round, when you book a stay at any of our 15 spectacular people in love, now offers military Sandals Resorts. Spend time with the one you love 1 , couples anonadditional 10% savings a romantic getaway with every conceivable luxury. From specialty dining, watersports, golf , and Sandals Resorts, the world’s only Luxury Included year-round, when you book a stay unlimited premium spirits to elegantly appointed Vacation for two people in love, now offers military at Sandals any of our spectacular Sandals Resorts, the15 world’s only Luxurybutler Included suites, many with personal service, and the couples an additional 10% savings , year-round, world-class Lane , you’ll experience why Vacation for two people inRed love, nowSpa offers military Resorts. when you book a stay at any of our 15 spectacular Spend time with the one hake off the winter doldrums with a romantic getaway.

Sandals Resorts is voted “World’s Best” year after couples an additional 10% savings , year-round, Sandals Resorts. Spend time with the one you love on a romantic getaway you love when you bookyear. a stay at any of our 15 spectacular on a romantic getaway with every conceivable with every luxury.

From open 52 weeks a year—and so is our Victoria’s Sandals Resorts.conceivable Spend time with the one you love We’re luxury. From specialty dining, watersports, golf , and hake off the winter doldrums with a romantic getaway. onappointed a romantic getaway with every conceivable BOOK NOW TO SAVE AN ADDITIONAL unlimited premium spirits to elegantly specialty dining, watersports, golf2, Restaurant.

Call (800) 33 BEACH or (302) 227-7169 luxury. suites, many with personal butler service, andFrom the specialty dining, watersports, golf , and and unlimited premium spirits to We’re hake open 52theweeks a year—and so isa romantic our Victoria’s unlimited premium spirits to elegantly appointed winter doldrums with getaway. world-class Red Lane Spa , you’ll experience why hake offoffthe winter doldrums with a romantic getaway. elegantly appointed suites, many or visit www.boardwalkplaza.com for great package pricing. suites, many with personal butler service, and the Sandals Resorts is voted “World’s Best” year after Restaurant.

Call (800) 33 BEACH or (302) 227-7169 We’re open 52 weeks a year—and so is our Victoria’s world-class Red Lane Spa , you’ll experience why year. with personal butler service, and the We’re open 52 weeks a year—and so is our Victoria’s Sandals Resorts is voted “World’s Best” year 3after world-class Red Lane® Spa , you’ll Restaurant.

Call(800) (800)33 33 BEACH BEACH or (302) 227-7169 orRestaurant. visit www.boardwalkplaza.com for package pricing. year.

Call orgreat (302) 227-7169 BOOK NOW TO SAVE AN ADDITIONAL experience why Sandals Resorts is For more information, call your Travel Agent: or visit www.boardwalkplaza.com for great package pricing. voted “World’s Best” year after year. or visit www.boardwalkplaza.com for great package pricing. ®

®

1

2

® Sandals® Resorts, the world’s only ® Luxury Included

®

Vacation for two people in love, now offers military

couples an additional 10% savings1, year-round, when you book a stay at any ® of our 15 spectacular Sandals 1Resorts. Spend time with the one you love

®

on a romantic getaway with every conceivable

®

3

luxury. From specialty dining, watersports, golf2, and

1

unlimited premium spirits to elegantly appointed

10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD

suites, many with personal butler service, and the

Sandals Resorts is voted “World’s Best” year after year.

2

BOOK NOW TO SAVE AN ADDITIONAL

2

®

3

®

800-638-2100 Info@ ClarionOC.com

S

world-class Red Lane® Spa3, you’ll experience why

S

SS

3

For more information, call your Travel Agent:

or 1-800-SANDALS

sandals.com/military

BOOK NOW TO SAVE AN ADDITIONAL

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS

BOOK NOW TO SAVE AN ADDITIONAL

Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/1812 or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions. 1812/0715

For more information, call your Travel Agent:

or 1-800-SANDALS

sandals.com/military

Cruise & Land Travel 2 Olive Avenue & the Boardwalk • Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

JAMAICA • SAINT call LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS For more• ANTIGUA information, For more information, call your Travel Agent: Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/1812 or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions. 1812/0715 The top Sandals Military/Government Specialist in the area

888-434-6544 www.CruiseLandTravel.com | info@cruiselandtravel.com or 1-800-SANDALS

22 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

sandals.com/military

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS

or 1-800-SANDALS

sandals.com/military

Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/1812 or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions. 1812/0715

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS

2 Olive Avenue theBoardwalk Boardwalk •• Rehoboth Beach, DEDE 19971 2 Olive Avenue & &the Rehoboth Beach, 19971

2 Olive Avenue & the Boardwalk • Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

it’s the newest remodeled resort situated by itself on the stunningly beautiful South Coast.

A short plane ride to the Bahamas offers two affordable resorts with economical airfare, as well: u Sandals Royal Bahamian Tucked away in a serene corner of Nassau, it’s the Bahamas most elegant resort. u Sandals Emerald Bay in Great Exuma Secluded within 500 tropical acres along a pristine, mile-long beach, pleasure coexists with exotic adventure here. Check out the half-acre, zero-entry pool with a dramatic fire pit in the middle.

St. Lucia, acclaimed for its dramatic twinpeaked mountains and lush tropical environment, is home to three Sandals resorts: u Sandals Regency La Toc Its 210 acres, a beautiful half-mile long crescentshaped beach, and five-star French cuisine are just the tip of the iceberg of what this resort offers.

Island, which is rich in history and filled with exotic natural gems such as deep caverns, rocky cliffs, and white sand beaches.

There’s no better way to enjoy the islands than a stay at Sandals.

Deciding which resort is for you can be a pleasant difficulty to wrestle with, so why not speak to the experts who have been there, who will listen to your specific wants and needs, and, best of all, get you the absolute best prices?

Contact the Sandals experts at Cruise & Land Travel at 888-4346544, info@cruiselandtravel. com, or cruiselandtravel.com, and let them know you are a Recreation News reader.

K arl Teel

In addition to fine restaurants, Sandals also offers romantic options like your own private sunset dinner on the beach.

u Sandals Grande St. Lucian Calm waters, a volcanic backdrop, a mile-long beach, and lush tropical scenery are hallmarks of this resort, located on its own peninsula. u Sandals Halcyon Beach A tropical utopia, where palms line a pristine beach and verdant mountains rise from a turquoise sea, you’ll discover this resort is an intimate sanctuary often referred to as a true Garden of Eden.

Three other resorts round out the Caribbean offerings of Sandals. Each of these islands have a unique draw:

Beaches are just the beginning.

We invite you to explore a place we call home. Experience the warmth of our friends and neighbors. Taste our multitudes of flavors.

Get lost around the heart of our community, The Circle. You’ll see what we mean when we say: Georgetown, Delaware. Well Rounded.

u Sandals LaSource Grenada Located in the heart of the exclusive Pink Gin Beach, this resort has it all. Check out the Skypool Suites and infinity edge plunge pools.

Join us for these upcoming events.

* Easter Egg Hunt – April 15 * Decadent Dessert Mixer – May 17 * Farmers Market – May 17–September * BBQ Cook-off – July 8 * Art Crawl & Farmer & Foodie Festival – July 29 * Farm to Table – August 16 * Wings & Wheels – October 6 & 7 * Christmas Parade – December 7

u Sandals Grande Antigua Whether you stay at the all-suite Mediterranean Village or Caribbean Grove seaside garden oasis, you’ll enjoy luxury at the most pristine beaches in the entire Caribbean. u Sandals Barbados This resort is located on our favorite Caribbean

Visit us at www.georgetowncoc.com or call 302-856-1544.

Celebrate Easter • Easter Egg-Stravaganza Brunch at $34.95

*Kids 3 & under Eat Free, 12 & under Half Price* Seatings at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm

• Family Photos with the Easter Bunny! • Easter Candy Parade for the Kids and much more!

Easter on Sunday,

2&($1)5217 3/$=$ +27(/ %RDUGZDON DW WK 6WUHHW 1DPHG %HVW 6HDVLGH +RWHOV E\ $PHULFDQ %XVLQHVV $VVRFLDWLRQ

For Details, Menus & Reservations Call 1-800-523-2888 or Visit dunesmanor.com

2&($1)5217 ,11 %RDUGZDON DW WK 6WUHHW

1DPHG +RZDUG -RKQVRQ LQ 1RUWK $PHULFDQ E\ :\QGKDP

800-926-1122

Ž—Â?›Š•ȹ ŽœŽ›Â&#x;ŠÂ?Â’Â˜Â—ÂœČąČŠČą Â›Â˜ÂžÂ™Čą ŠÂ?ÂŽÂœČąČŠČą ÂŒÂŽÂŠÂ—Čą Â’Â?¢ȹ ˜•Â?Čą ›˜ž™œ

STAY, SPLASH & SAVE SPECIAL Hotel & Suites

2&($1)5217 %RDUGZDON DW UG 6WUHHW

JUNE 11-AUG.31

ǯ ǯ ‡ 1LJKW $FFRPPRGDWLRQV ‡ SDVV SHU SHUVRQ WR 6SODVK 0RXQWDLQ :DWHU 3DUN ‡ 2QH EUHDNIDVW YRXFKHU SHU SHUVRQ SHU GD\ ‡ SDVV SHU SHUVRQ IRU PLQL JROI DW -ROO\ 5RJHU ‡ 6WDUWLQJ DW EDVHG RQ D IDPLO\ RI *Packages and specials restricted to certain dates.

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 23

pennsy lvania I jill gleeson

Mountain bikers are falling for Raystown Lake’s skills park

A llen Gwinn

Riders sharpen their skills at the 2-acre Mountain Bike Skills Park at Raystown Lake.

It’s a blustery day in central Pennsylvania; cold enough that the sky is occasionally spitting what sure looks like snow. But Mitch Moore, an athletic-appearing fellow in his 30s, isn’t about to let the chill air spoil his ride.

He’s come here to the Raystown Lake area from Lewistown, Pa., about a 90-minute drive, to try out the Mountain Bike Skills Park, which debuted July 1.

“It’ll definitely help improve my skills,” said Moore when asked about the park. “I’m more of a trail guy than this kind of stuff here, but I came to try it — it’s something different to ride. I’ll hit up the trails after I’m finished here.”

The trails Moore are referring to are the Allegrippis Trails (raystown. org/allegrippis-trails), 36 miles of multi-use stacked-loop trails that opened in 2009 and immediately began drawing mountain bikers

from the Mid-Atlantic, Canada, and beyond. (The trails are about a three-hour drive from Washington, D.C.) They’ve been ranked by Men’s Journal magazine as some of the best for mountain biking in the country, which doesn’t surprise Brent Rader.

A passionate member of the local mountain biking community, Rader calls the Allegrippis Trails “a good time. There are trails at different skill levels, so you can build up. It’s an amazing system, atypical for the region. Because they’re machine-cut trails, they’re rolling — most of the trails in the state are rocky and really technical. So it’s really fun to be able to come out here and go fast.”

The 2-acre skills park, which is free to use and sits on public land next door to the largest lake in the Keystone State, helps riders get continued on page 27

HA P P Y BIR THD A Y , HU NTINGD O N

This year, Huntingdon, Pa., which is a 20-minute drive from the Raystown Mountain Bike Skills Park, turns 250 years old and will mark the occasion with a variety of festive events.

“On Friday, June 9, our town will come together for a traditional hometown parade,” noted Tammy Stuber, one of the organizing committee members.

“The next day, Mayor Dee Dee Brown will lead a dedication ceremony at our town monument called the “Standing Stone,” once used in as a meeting place marker for Native Americans. Upon conclusion of the ceremony, the town will open up for a street fair festival including food and craft vendors, historic demonstrations, kids’ activities, and entertainment for all ages.”

Take a ride on real trolleys weekends — Memorial Day through October!

Special Events All Year

APRIL 8 — EASTER BUNNY TROLLEY! May 27 & 28 — Opening Day Weekend June 3 — Aughwick Antique Tractor Club Day June 10 — Johnstown Car Day June 17 & 18 — Father’s Day Weekend

July 15 — PCC & LRV Electric Rail Day July 29 — Homecoming Sept. 9 — World War II Day with Actors Fall/Winter events — check website or call 814-447-9576

RockhillTrolley.org Rockhill Furnace, PA 24 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

pennsy lvania I vanessa orr

Take on 3 trails and a float in Pennsylvania’s Indiana County What are your favorite outside pursuits? Hiking? Kayaking? Road or mountain biking? Indiana County, Pa., may claim to be the Christmas Tree Capital of the World, but come warmer weather the focus shifts to different outdoor activities.

Spring is a great time to get out on the water, especially in a canoe or kayak. One of the most popular “floats” in the area is to put in at the Conemaugh Dam and paddle your way down to Saltsburg, about a fourhour ride.

One really nice aspect of this trip is that you can rent everything you need from Saltsburg Kayak & Canoe Outfitters, and they will transport you to the put-in point. Your trip ends where Loyalhanna Creek and the Conemaugh River meet to form the Kiskiminetas River. This is also where the outfitter is located, making it an easy in and out.

While there are long periods of relaxed floating and picturesque views, there are also a few areas where the water picks up and you

have to pay attention, which makes for a fun change of pace. Still, those fairly new to the sport should feel comfortable with this level of challenge.

“This is really a great beginners’ river,” said Johnathan Crowe, who manages the outfitter with his wife, Courtney. “There are a couple of Class 1 and Class 2 rapids, mostly in spring, but you are still able to do it on your own without a guide.”

Insider tip: If you like history, take the time to wander through Saltsburg after your trip. The outfitter is located in the George Altman building, built in 1912, and the Rebecca B. Hadden Stone House Museum, which documents the history of the area, is located just across the street.

an easy half-mile loop to a more challenging 2-mile trail that offers a view of the Yellow Creek Dam. There are also 18 miles of singletrack mountain biking trails in the 2,981-acre park.

Walking some of the trails is like taking a trip back in time. The West

Penn Trail retraces the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal and Portage Railroad route, while the Hoodlebug Trail, which runs 10 miles from Black Lick to Indiana, follows the path of the Indiana branch of the 1850s continued on page 27

Off the water If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, or on the pedals, there are numerous places to hike and bike in Indiana County.

Yellow Creek State Park offers 5 miles of hiking trails, ranging from

V anessa O rr

Spring is a great time to put a kayak in at Conemaugh Dam and paddle the four hours to Saltsburg.

Spring Into History April 29, 2017

The Christmas Tree Capital of the World

Traverse more than 300 years of American heritage and culture in Franklin County!

• Native American artifacts •Frontier and Colonial America •The Underground Railroad • Civil War •Architectural and archaeological history Enjoy a 1 night stay at White Hall Manor B&B, dinner and the Greencastle Beer & Wine Festival!

Take a fresh look at Franklin County!

● Horticultural, Craft & Music Festivals

● Family Fun – Hike & Bike 64 Miles of Rails to Trails, Kayak, Sail and Golf ● Artisans & Smicksburg Amish Shopping ● The Jimmy Stewart Museum ● Wineries, Craft Breweries & Distillery

ENTER AT:

ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com

Experience...

717.552.2977 | 866.646.8060 ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com

iana Cou Ind nt y

April

ist Bureau ur To

877-746-3426 VisitIndianaCountyPA.org

Come For

SPRING FUN,

Take Home a Memory!

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 25

pennsy lvania I barbara miller beem

Fresh air and antiques draw visitors to Gettysburg show Even now, the townspeople of Gettysburg are preparing for the third Saturday in May, the day when a mighty throng will once again converge on this quaint Pennsylvania town. Hailing from the North, the South, and all points in between, some 10,000 people will likely fill the streets of the historic downtown area. Their mission: not to engage in battle (although there may be a bit of bartering), but to find the perfect treasure.

Yes, it’s time for the Gettysburg Outdoor Antiques Show.

Set for May 20, 7:00am–4:00pm (rain or shine), the show is marking its 50th year, according to its manager, John Angstadt. Known for its reputation of offering “high-quality antiques,” the twice-a-year event is popular with shoppers and dealers alike.

Shoppers, Angstadt explained, range from curious novices to serious collectors. Many are day-trip-

O THE R GR E A T E V E NTS TO E NJO Y IN GE TTY S BU R G Gettysburg Tourism

Gettysburg hosts a number of activities this spring, including: u Living History Weekends at the Eisenhower National Historic Site Living history from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War is featured every weekend through October. u National Junior Ranger Day, April 15 Activities for inquisitive young minds include trying on Civil War-era costumes and pretending to be a Secret Service agent at both the Gettysburg National Military Park and the Eisenhower National History Site. u Gettysburg North-South Marathon and 10-Miler, April 23 More than half the course traverses the battlefield, offering a unique way to see hallowed ground. (gettysburgnorthsouthmarathon.com) u Doors Open Gettysburg, May 6, 11:00am–4:00pm The National Park Service will open eight buildings on the Gettysburg battlefield to the public for a rare look at structures ranging from recently restored to those in need of repair. u Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival, May 18–20 This internationally acclaimed festival hosts bands and fans from around the world at Granite Hill Camping Resort. (gettysburgbluegrass.com)

Twice each year, The Gettysburg Outdoor Antiques Show draws dealers and buyers to Lincoln Square. pers, but others take advantage of nearby accommodations and linger a while in the popular travel destination.

Dealers (“we’re holding steady at 125”) travel from “up and down the East Coast, mainly the Mid-Atlantic, but from as far south as Florida and as far west as Illinois.” They set up their booths on the sidewalks that line Carlisle, Chambersburg, Baltimore, and York streets, as well as on Lincoln Square.

Items typically for sale include, among other things, vintage clothing, sports memorabilia, and china, as well as toys, postcards, and Civil

Only 90 minutes north of D.C.!

START HERE & STEP INSIDE

one of the Civil War’s most historic buildings.

War artifacts. “The prices are always reasonable,” he noted. “The dealers come here to sell.”

In addition to a garage behind the Gettysburg Hotel, there is plenty of side-street parking available, Angstadt added.

Although show vendors do not sell food, many of the town’s restaurants, as well as other businesses, offer specials in conjunction with the event, thereby adding to the festivallike atmosphere.

This show, as well as the fall antiques show (Sept. 23), is sponsored by the Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association.

Start Your Gettysburg Experience With Us

Gettysburg’s Premier View Experience: A visit is not complete without a personally guided Cupola Tour.

COLIN MOCHRIE & BRAD SHERWOOD

Friday, May 12, 2017 • 7:30 pm 34, $31, $28

$

Armed with nothing but their sharp wit, comedians Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood take to the live stage to create hilarious and original scenes in their two-man show.

Three floors of exhibits connect individuals to the dilemmas which led to the Civil War, provide a powerful and personal view of the battle’s first day, and show the work of one of the battlefield’s largest field hospitals.

Outdoor walking trail • Ample free parking • Special group rates & programs Conveniently located on Seminary Ridge along Gettysburg National Military Park’s auto tour route.

111 Seminary Ridge • Gettysburg, PA

GettysburgMajestic.org 717-337-8200

26 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

TICKETS: 717-339-1300 www.seminaryridgemuseum.org info@seminaryridgemuseum.org Facebook.com/seminaryridgemuseum

Take a comfortable two-hour tour through the Historic Gettysburg Battlefield with a Licensed Battlefield Guide

For Reservations Call 877-680-TOUR Or Visit GburgBusTours.Com

Check out New Oxford, too As for those seeking to go antiquing the other 363 days of the year, the town of New Oxford is a scenic 10-mile drive east of Gettysburg along Route 30, the historic Lincoln Highway. Known as the “Original Antiques Capital of South-Central Pennsylvania,” New Oxford is home to more than a dozen antiques stores.

Those offering a variety of wares range from single-dealer shops with staggered hours to three co-ops, with approximately 150 dealers, that are open seven days a week.

Dedicated antiquers, as well as those wishing to pass several hours (or more) in a relaxing atmosphere, are likely to find New Oxford a pleasant stop. Many dealers offer a general line of furniture and “smalls;” others specialize in primitives, art, and militaria. Antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries mingle with vintage decorative items from the 20th century. Oak furniture, estate jewelry, and Victoriana are also offered for sale here.

And, if that is not enough, the eclectic repurposed buildings of New Oxford’s antiques shops are intriguing in themselves, including a former shoe factory that is now thought by some to be haunted.

Learn more Outdoor Antiques Show: gettysburgretailmerchants.com Gettysburg Tourism: destinationgettysburg.com

Raystown continued from page 24 good enough to “go fast” on the trails. Fun features like berms (corners with banked outer edges) and a “whale tale” (a little bump following a large bump with a jump over it) test abilities in a safe setting. Out on the trails riders who take a tumble could be 10 remote miles from help; the skills park is across from the visitors center and a handy supply of band aids, if need be.

But right now, wiping out seems the furthest thing

Indiana

from Moore’s mind. “I like the flow of the skills park,” he said. “I like the berms, in particular.” As he prepares to ride off down the intermediate track, Moore yelled back over his shoulder, “It’s a good time, for sure.”

Insider tip: The annual Dirt Rag Dirt Fest, with mountain biking demo and expo areas, skills clinics, group rides, live music, beer tasting, and camping will return to Raystown Lake, May 18– 21. (dirtragdirtfest.com)

For more information Raystown Lake Tourism: raystown.org

Learn more Indiana Co. Tourism: visitindianacountypa.org

continued from page 25 Pennsylvania Railroad. What’s really unique about the Hoodlebug Trail is that it is both rural and residential; it also passes right by Disobedient Spirits, where you can quickly quench your thirst before getting back on track.

The Hoodlebug also connects to the Ghost Town Trail, a well-maintained, crushed limestone trail that runs for 36 continuous miles through Indiana and Cambria counties. Named for the mining towns that used to exist along the route, you can still see traces of bygone times, including the Eliza Furnace at Vintondale, one of the state’s best-preserved iron furnaces. The furnace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A perfect way to end your day in the area is with a stop into Levity Brewing Co., located less than a mile from the Hoodlebug Trail. Opened in January 2016, the business — which believes in serious beer for the light at heart — attracts a lot of people who love the outdoors and sharing their adventures over pints of Possum Glory, Hoodlebug Brown, or Headlamp Stout.

V anessa O rr

Bike through historic sites in Indiana County, Pa.

Spring into action

as Gettysburg, PA blooms into vibrant colors, fresh seasonal foodie menus, and fun-packed couples’ adventures!

All less than 90 minutes away from D.C. or Baltimore!

Make your own history. #GettysburgInspired Plan your visit with our MyGettysburg App!

Download a FREE Travel Planner at DestinationGettysburg.com or call 800.337.5015

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 27

m ary land I daina savage

Spring comes to Garrett County Springtime in the mountains can be quite the adventure. You never know if you’ll be surprised by a blanket of snow or delighted with carpets of blooming wildflowers, all of which makes living in the moment almost an imperative.

Garrett County, Md., perched high in the Allegheny Mountains, offers so many possibilities in the springtime that it’s easy to have a

Plan B, C, and D at the ready in case the weekend weather dictates a pivot.

Whatever the weather, there’s a way to be outside enjoying the bounty of the region. Canoe or cast your fishing line on the county’s lakes and rivers, zip through treetops on ropes courses or a mountain coaster at the Wisp Resort, bike or hike the plethora of trails snaking

through the county, or sample the area’s specialties with wine, cheese, and craft beers.

To welcome spring visitors, several Deep Creek Lake area hotels and businesses are offering the 3-2-1 Lodging and Activity Promotion through May 11.

Six lodging companies are offering three-night stays for the price of two, as well as special activity deals including discounts on dining, wine and beer tastings, spirit purchases, and amusement center activities. (visitdeepcreek.com)

Water wonders

Garrett Co. Tourism

Spring is a good time to explore Garrett County’s trails.

Whether your preference is to paddle, motor, or just wade, Garrett County’s waterways offer a bounty of options.

While only the most hardy are waterskiing in wetsuits during the spring, Deep Creek Lake remains a draw for fishing and kayaking.

Smaller lakes such as Broadford and Herrington Manor are also popular fishing spots. And, there’s the trout fishing on the Casselman, Youghiogheny, and Savage rivers that bring out the anglers.

Check out the Maryland Depart-

ment of Natural Resources’ website to plan your trip. (dnr.maryland.gov/ fisheries) Another option is a guide, such as Don Hershfield, of Streams and Dreams, who can help you out. (streams-and-dreams.net)

Mountain park play Springtime at Wisp Resort means a mountainful of adventures, from ground-grazing ropes courses for the little ones to treetop zip lines to the thrill of a mountain coaster rushing downhill. Other activities, including archery and gem mining, round out the family fun. Nearby, play centers such as Smiley’s Fun Zone offer bumper cars and go-carts. (wispresort.com)

Garrett trail goodness In the time between snow-melt and leaf-out, the Garrett County woods reveal a sensory extravaganza.

Pungent ramps and stinky skunk cabbage send up broad fat leaves.

Woodland beauties, including trillium, trout lilies, and dog-toothed violet, embrace the season of emergence. Maple sap runs on its journey to be boiled down to syrup. And, in the frost-pocket of the county’s cu-

Swing Swing up up to to Western Western Maryland Maryland for for aa true true golf golf experience experience where where Wisp Wisp Resort Resort offers offers two two unique unique mountain mountain courses. courses.

Stay Stay && Play Play Golf Golf Lodging Lodging Packages Packages You You pick pick the the nights nights and and the the course! course!

1-night 1-night stay stay atatThe The Lodge Lodge atatWisp Wisp 11 breakfast breakfast 18-holes 18-holes with with cart cart

Lodestone Lodestone Golf Golf Course Course Starting Starting atat $114 pp/pn* $114 pp/pn* antasy Valley Valley Golf Golf Course Course Starting Starting atat $99 pp/pn* FFantasy $99 pp/pn*

Call Call 855.990.0250 855.990.0250 to to book book today! today! *Rates *Ratesbased basedon ondouble doubleoccupancy, occupancy,availability availability&&advance advancereservation. reservation. Tee Teetimes timesbased basedon onavailability. availability.

wispresort.com wispresort.com 855.990.0250 855.990.0250

28 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

rious Cranesville sub-arctic swamp, bog-loving species emerge and shelter in a boreal 1,600-acre wonderland.

Whether you choose to hike to hear the springtime roar of the state’s largest waterfall at Swallow Falls State Park or navigate the technical challenges of Fork Run Recreational Area on a mountain bike, the Garrett Trails website can guide you to mapped trails with varying degrees of difficulty to help you explore the wealth of the county’s beauty. (garretttrails.org) Developed by local enthusiasts, the trail systems can be explored on foot, horseback, or mountain bikes, depending on which trail you choose. Beginners and those unfamiliar with the area can opt for guided tours with local natural photographer Crede Calhoun, of All Earth Eco Tours. (deepcreeklakefamilyactivities.com)

Eat and drink local Spring’s culinary pleasures in Garrett County include local Firefly Farms goat cheeses and High Country Creamery cow cheeses, local wines from Deep Creek Cellars and beer from Mountain State Brewing Company, newly boiled-down maple syrup from a number of family farms topping buckwheat pancakes, and the pungent taste of just-harvested ramps.

For ramp aficionados, the annual Ramp CookOff will be held April 29 at the Discovery Center at Deep Creek Lake State Park. From raw to roasted, this Appalachian delicacy will wake up your taste buds, just as the rest of Garrett County serves up a mountain spring.

Learn more Garrett Co. Tourism: visitdeepcreek.com

world war one I roland leiser

Marking the centennial of WWI In my home town of Kansas City, Mo., the National World War I Museum and Memorial documents America’s role in the conflict with artifacts and educational programs. It opened on Nov. 11, 1926 (originally Armistice Day, now Veterans Day), and later became a National Historical Landmark.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of America’s declaration of war against Germany on April 6, 1917, and the Mid-Atlantic region offers numerous opportunities to explore the area’s crucial role in the war and its impact on the home front. President Woodrow Wilson called it “The war to end all wars,” but failed to win Congressional approval for our country’s participation in the League of Nations to assure future peace.

Check out these opportunities to experience World War I in the Mid-Atlantic:

DELAWARE State museums Various locations 302-645-7670, history.delaware.gov Seven events at four museums, set for April 1–June 22, feature the theme “Service, Suffrage, and Swing: World War I Era in Delaware.” These include the annual Chautauqua tent show in Lewes, where reenactors will portray historical persons linked to WW1; a band concert is planned for June 6. In addition to the Lewes Historical Society, venues include the State House, Johnson Victrola Museum, and the Zwaanendael Museum.

Delaware Historical Society Wilmington, Del. 302-655-7161, dehistory.org A permanent exhibit includes some World War I artifacts, but a special exhibit on the war is planned for November.

MARYLAND College Park Aviation Museum College Park, Md. 301-864-6029, collegeparkaviationmuseum.com A Smithsonian affiliate, this museum gallery explains how powered flight developed as an aerial weapon, and how military pilots received training at College Park and influenced aviation.

Laurel Museum Laurel, Md. 301-725-7975, laurelhistoricalsociety.org Laurel’s museum has invited historian Wayne Dzwonchyk to discuss artifacts and tell WWI stories on April 6. An exhibit, Laurel’s WWI: From Here to Over There, runs through Dec. 17 and explores the impact of the war on Laurel’s residents with artifacts, posters, poignant letters sent home, and trench art. Soldiers trained at Camp Laurel (now Laurel Park for horse racing) and Camp Meade (later Fort Meade).

Mallows Bay Charles County, Md. charlescountymd.gov/discoverquest On the Maryland side of the Potomac River is

the graveyard of more than 100 ships sunk in Mallows Bay. These date from the Civil War and WWI. Wooden vessels built for the government in WWI were scuttled here because of shoddy work and the end of the war. Visitors must access what’s called the “Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay” by canoe or kayak from a new park. A WWI weekend, April 21–23, features art, guided kayak tours, and relevant exhibits at six historic sites.

NORTH CAROLINA The Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex Fayetteville, N.C. 910-486-1330, museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov The museum will showcase an exhibit, North Carolina in the Great War, Oct. 3–Nov. 12. Almost 61,000 North Carolinians were drafted, and 2,375 men died. By the time the conflict ended, Tar Heel soldiers were awarded 200 medals. There will be a 10-panel exhibit, artifacts, and an encampment for kids 9 to 12 designed to make their history books come alive.

82nd Airborne Division Memorial War Museum Fort Bragg, N.C. 910-432-3443/5307, 82ndairbornedivisionmuseum.com A permanent gallery on WWI highlights the organization and training of the division, as well as its combat roles, with displays of uniforms, weapons, and equipment. Separately, the museum is showing artifacts once belonging to Sgt. Alvin York, the highly decorated war hero. A Century of Service exhibit is scheduled May 22–26. It chronicles 100 years of the 82nd’s service from day one.

And, beginning in August, the museum will show how the Army made draftees into “doughboys.” continued on page 30

AIR SHOWS

WWII: MAY 19-21 «( WWI: October 7-8 «( Re-enactorS «( EntertainerS «( VendorS & More! www.VBAIRSHoW.com

Virginia Beach, Virginia (757()( 721-PRoP (7767()(

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 29

WWI continued from page 29

increases its hours to Mondays through Saturdays from May through November. Among other items, it displays trench knives from 1917 and 1918.

North Carolina Museum of History Raleigh, N.C. 919-807-7900, ncmuseumofhistory.org On April 8, a 10:00am wreath-laying ceremony with WWI reenactors is scheduled on the grounds of the state capitol building. It will be followed by officials opening the exhibit North Carolina and WWI, which includes interactive displays, multimedia, 500 artifacts, period photos, and a trench diorama.

Ma and Pa Railroad Heritage Village Airville, Pa. 717-927-9565, maandparailroad.com Historian Jason Griffeth gives a lecture on “Europe at War, 1914-1917,” which centers on America’s declaration of war, military mobilization, and the Versailles Treaty, at 7:30pm on May 19 at the Stewartstown United Methodist Church. Over the weekend, encampments are scheduled at the village with uniformed reenactors.

PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania Military Museum Boalsburg, Pa. 814-466-6263 On the weekend of April 22–23, the museum hosts a history encampment, “The Great War Remembered: WWI,” about the life and horrors on the Western Front. A special focus will be on gas warfare, tanks and arms, and nurses’ stories. The film The Battle of the Somme will be show on Sunday.

American Military Edged Weaponry Museum Intercourse, Pa. 717-768-7185, discoverlancaster.com The museum is open Saturdays in April, but

U.S. Army Heritage and Educational Center Carlisle, Pa. 717-245-3972, usahec.org Open year-round, the center’s free 1-mile Army Heritage Trail includes a replica of a WWI trench system.

VIRGINIA Marvin Bond

The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach has both German and Allied planes.

Caroline County 804-633-3490, visitcaroline.com Artifacts such as a WWI officer’s toilet kit and

a medical bag will be shown at the Port Royal American History Museum. A period uniform will be on display at the Caroline Museum and Cultural Center in Bowling Green. Through print and radio promotion, the county will encourage travelers normally driving on I-95 to use the Highway 301/207 corridor to visit the two towns and their war exhibits. These are slated starting Memorial Day and on each Saturday in June and October.

Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum Wytheville, Va. 276-223-3484, edithbollingwilson.org The birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson’s second wife opens an exhibit, The Red Cross and Women Winning the War, this summer. Mrs. Wilson volunteered with the Red Cross, and even raised sheep on the White House lawn to aid the war effort.

George C. Marshall Museum Lexington, Va. 540-463-7103, marshallfoundation.org Though George C. Marshall was best known as Army chief of staff during World War II, and later as secretary of state, the museum honors his earlier contributions as an aide to WWI Gen. John J. Pershing. There are infographics that link Marshall to WWI, as well as artifacts from the museum’s collection.

George C. Marshall International Center Leesburg, Va. 703-777-1301, georgemarshall.org This was Gen. Marshall’s home in retirement and it is open seasonally for public tours. See Marshall’s study, bedroom, and gardens.

Ships,History Great Outdoors AND

THE

Victory Arch

Ferguson Center for the Arts

The Mariners’ Museum and Park Virginia Living Museum

888.493.7386 newport-news.org

30 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

This & more!

Plus Williamsburg & Virginia Beach.

Military Aviation Museum Virginia Beach, Va. 757-721-7767, militaryaviationmuseum.org Housed in authentic hangars, the venue’s collection of 21 WWI planes from the U.S., United Kingdom, France, and Germany includes an original Curtis Jenny. The paintings of WWI aviation artist Henri Farreat also are on display. The museum presents its Flying Proms Symphony Air Show performance June 10. Its annual biplane and triplane WWI event is Oct. 7–8. An encampment will display the museum’s vehicles, armor, and arms.

National Museum of the Marine Corps Triangle, Va. 877-635-1775, usmcmuseum.org A permanent gallery on WWI focuses on weapons and uniforms from the conflict. The museum also has a fully restored Liberty Truck that was used to transport war material, plus WWI aircraft.

Additionally, there are photos of the Marines’ mobilization for the war and a life-size model of handto-hand combat.

Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center Portsmouth, Va. 757-393-8543, portsmouthartcenter.com The center’s exhibit To Face the Unknown: Portsmouth and the Great War runs July 4–Oct. 9.

It will include photos, newspapers, uniforms, propaganda posters, and media, plus talks and symposiums. The nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum will offer its WWI collections and encourage cross visits.

Virginia War Museum Newport News, Va. warmuseum.org The extensive displays of WWI items include a Whitworth gun, a Holt artillery tractor, and a 1917 tank. The city was an embarkation point for more than 47,000 horses and mules, more than 261,000 American soldiers, and 438 ships sent to the war zone. The mobilization comes to life June 17-18 with a WWI encampment at Endview Plantation.

The Army’s Transportation Museum at Fort Eustis (now Joint Base Langley-Eustis) features an escort TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

FAMILY & FRIENDS GETAWAYS 2017 Cross Country Train Ride - July 11-24 One day bus trip to NY to see KINKY BOOTS July 8, 2017 Cruise From Baltimore New England & Canada — Sept. 21-30 Fall foliage cruise from Baltimore CALL DONNA T AT 202.258.3758 FOR MORE INFORMATION

VACATION RENTALS

VACATION RENTALS

BURNER’S MOUNTAIN LODGE

Luray, Va. Two bedroom cabin. Fully equipped.

Hot tub, fishing pond, many extras. Reasonable rates. Private. Close to hiking, Shenandoah river, caverns and golf. Call 540-743-3787, visit www.burnermountain.mysite.com, or e-mail: pab_pdb@yahoo.com

wagon and a Liberty Truck, illustrating how battlefield logistics shifted from animal to motorized transportation.

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum Staunton, Va. 540-885-0897, woodrowwilson.org President Wilson’s birthplace, a national historic landmark dating to 1846, has been restored to its original design. It includes a library and museum, and on display are materials about his life, as well as official volumes on WWI and memoirs of people who worked with him. Wilson’s presidential limousine, a Pierce-Arrow, can be viewed. A WWI trench experience in the basement is a great way to appreciate the war.

Library of Congress Washington, D.C. loc.gov An ongoing exhibit, scheduled to close May 6, shows how artists viewed the Great War and galvanized the public’s interest.

National Guard Memorial Museum Washington D.C. ngef.org Located on Capitol Hill, the display Shot at Dawn, Gassed by Night focuses on trench warfare, African-American soldiers, and letters from the

Annapolis RV Center * Service * Parts * Rentals

Many sizes from 24 to 34

Weekends, Full weeks, or more!

Call today and plan your vacation!

301-261-8772 www.annapolisrv.com

TRIPS & TRAVEL

Nitro World War I Museum Nitro, W.Va. historyofnitro.com Today a small town of 7,150, it was one of three U.S. cities with “massive explosive plants” to make gunpowder during WWI, at one time employing 19,000 workers. It opens a WWI park in May. Kimball World War I Memorial Kimball, W.Va. forgottenlegacywwi.org This memorial is said to have been the first built, and the only one remaining, to honor the 400,000 African-American veterans of WWI. The site was chosen for its prominence in the AfricanAmerican community.

Additional information U.S. WWI Centennial Commission: worldwar1centennial.org

TRIPS & TRAVEL

2017 Vacations — Plan NOW for summer getaways, birthday parties, family reunions and retirement celebrations. All Inclusive Resorts are excellent venues to relax and party. Cruise locally from Baltimore, New Jersey, New York or Florida. Popular destinations include Las Vegas, Punta Cana, Disney, New Orleans, New York, Alaska and Europe. Let us know your dreams and we’ll go to work “creating rocking chair memories” for you.

Mother’s Day — Sun., May 14, “Sistas the Musicals” in New York City, Soul Food Lunch, Fun and Games. Treat Mom, Sisters, Daughters, BFF. Hubbies and significant others welcome. This trip sells fast, Call Now. Bermuda Cruise — Sept. 16-21, from Baltimore on the newly remodeled Grandeur of the Seas. Big fun onboard the ship and on the island. Enjoy pink sand beaches, History and Culture, Bobbies in Bermuda Shorts. Great rates but Limited Cabins. Don’t miss this sailing if you need a break.

Cuba — Nov. 9-17, Ship sails to three ports on the largest island in the Caribbean. This trip is a people to people exchange to meet the friendly residents, learn the culture, enjoy the music and food. Contact us ASAP for details.

Faith Journeys/Retreats — Individuals, churches, ministries, Bible study groups. Strengthen your faith as you discover Biblical sites in the U.S. or around the world. Want to bless people in need, consider Impact Travel in the Dominican Republic. Contact us to discuss the possibilities for fellowship and/or fundraising.

RIVERFRONT CABINS

With acu i pa and fireplace on the henandoah R iver in beautiful Luray, V A .

Canoe provided. V isit TheS toneManor.com or call 5 4 0- 8 4 3 - 4 9 4 4

WEST VIRGINIA

National Air and Space Museum Washington, D.C. airandspace.si.edu One of the world’s most visited museums, air and space features a permanent exhibit, “The Great War in the Air,” at the Mall location and a rotating exhibit, “Artist Soldiers: Artistic Expression in the First World War,” opening April 6. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center branch at Chantilly, Va., includes vintage aircraft from the conflict. A free film series is scheduled at both museum locations monthly through Nov. 11. (airandspace.si.edu/ hollywood)

TRIPS & TRAVEL

The President Woodrow Wilson House Washington, D.C. woodrowwilsonhouse.org A national historic site, the elegant home that President Wilson and his wife shared after he left office will commemorate the centennial with special events. These include: In Flanders Fields, with a poetry reading and music, April 19; “Images of the Great War,” through May; and “Food on Both Fronts,” focusing on Red Cross doughnut and other recipes, June 22.

While visiting the nation’s capital, see the monument to WWI veterans near the Tidal Basin. Take a break at Pershing Park, downtown at 14th Street and Independence Avenue NW, which honors WWI Gen. John J. Pershing. And, yes, the Wilson Bridge over the Potomac is named for our 28th president, who was in office during the war.

WASHINGTON D.C.

TRIPS & TRAVEL

front. It’s open through May. A permanent exhibition is dedicated to Pvt. Thomas Reno and his artifacts and letters. He was a member of the 29th Infantry Division.

GREAT ESCAPES TRAVEL & TOURS Call Barbara 301-567-6464 or e-mail FrankieTVL2@aol.com for more info.

“We Create Rocking Chair Memories”

VACATION RENTALS

VACATION RENTALS

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND SHORELINE PROPERTIES & CONDO RENTALS Call now for reservations or sales 800-492-5832 Search online and save: shorepro.com

VACATION RENTALS

VACATION RENTALS

ALLSTAR LODGING

SHENANDOAH VALLEY’S LARGEST VACATION RENTAL AGENCY Over 80 unique cabins & vacation rentals. 1-10 bdrms, sleeps 2-45 guests. Swimming pools, hot tubs, fireplaces kitchens, campfire, WiFi, free canoe/kayak use, hiking, riverfront or wooded areas, for quick getaway, family vacation or company retreat. Dogs welcome! www.allstarlodging.com 540-843-0606

LAND FOR SALE

LAND FOR SALE

Petersburg, WV, 59.61 acres, wooded, $119K; 81.61 acres wooded $162,900, both tracts have good cabin sites, mature trees, excellent views, good hunting, and access to 50 acre stocked fishing lake. Also Lake Access lot with deeded boat slip at Smith Mountain Lake (20,000 acre lake), 31 miles NE of Roanoke VA. $34.9K. 304-257-2385.

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news 31

Make extra cash from your old devices.

Let us take your unwanted eligible wireless devices off your hands. With the Sprint Buyback Program, you can earn up to $300 in account credit when you trade in your device – no matter what carrier it’s from. sprint.com/buyback

You can also recycle through Sprint Project Connect℠ to fund Internet safety resources for kids. You’ll be keeping old phones out of the waste stream whatever you choose. We’ll even pay for shipping the phone to us.

15 Rico Roscigno 1101 S Joyce St Ste B-15 Arlington, VA 22202 Phone: (703) 412-1472 Rico.G.Roscigno@sprint.com

%

Discount for employees of

the Federal Government.

Applies to select regularly priced Sprint monthly data service.

Be sure to mention this code: Corporate ID: GAFED_ZZZ

*GAFED_ZZZ*

Call Sprint Sales: 866-639-8354 Visit a local Sprint Store: sprint.com/storelocator

http://sprint.co/2mP785W

Activ. Fee: Up to $30/line. Credit approval req. Sprint Buyback: Limited time offer. Limit of 5 returned devices per active mobile number during one 12 month period, 3 per transaction. Phone must be deactivated and all personal data deleted before recycling. Device will not be returned. Credit varies depending on phone condition and valuation. Credit applied to store purchase or account within 3 invoices. Also available at sprintbuyback.com. Sprint Project Connect: Available at participating Sprint store locations or sprint.com/projectconnect. Phone must be deactivated and all personal data deleted before recycling. Device will not be returned. SDP Discount: Avail. for eligible company employees or org. members (ongoing verification). Discount subject to change according to the company’s/ org’s agreement with Sprint and is avail. upon request for select monthly data svc charges. Discount only applies to data svc for Better Choice Plans, Sprint Family Share Pack and Unlimited, My Way plans.

Not avail. with no credit check offers or Mobile Hotspot add-on. Other Terms: Offers and coverage not available everywhere or for all devices/networks. Restrictions apply. See store or sprint.com for details. © 2017 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint and the logo are trademarks of Sprint.

N095357 MV1234567

32 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

There’s a lot to love in Virginia ROOMS WITH A VIEW IN NELSON COUNTY

OUTDOORS IN ORANGE

NORTHERN NECK ARTISANS

FIND YOUR FUN IN LEXINGTON/ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY

DISMAL SWAMP STOMP

YORKTOWN’S NEW MUSEUM

STROLLING THROUGH LYNCHBURG

ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS ART

Gardens, galleries, and grapes event in Shenandoah County They’re flinging open the doors to Shenandoah County artists’ studios, wineries, farms, markets, and lots of other locations for the annual Open Door Tour, April 22–23. Some 24 locations, from the Strasburg area in the north to New Market in the south end of the county, will welcome visitors with art, demonstrations, tastings, and live music.

Most venues are open 10:00am–5:00pm each day.

Shenandoah County, at the western end of I-66, is just about an hour from Washington, D.C. Both I-81and U.S. Route 11 run the length of the county, providing easy access to the locations on the tour.

This year marks the fourth for the event, also known as “Gardens, Galleries, and Grapes,” and offers visitors a weekend opportunity to get a more intimate look at the county’s offerings.

“People can visit our galleries and wineries most any time,” said Jenna French, who promotes the county. “But, the tour is an opportunity to visit artists in their homes and studios that are not normally open to the public. It’s a real one-on-one experience that shows you what goes into their work.”

Aside from checking out the work of the 80 art-

ists at the 24 stops along the trail, you can pet a llama and see shearing at Posey Thisisit Llama Farm and taste wine from the county’s wineries.

At Country Gardens in Toms Brook, you’ll learn about bees, poultry, and ducks, and raised and container gardening.

The historic Edinburg Mill hosts an artisan event with 40 participants offering everything from bird feeders to watercolors. The stops continue down the length of the county and offer a wide variety of experiences, including watching the tasty Route 11 Potato Chips being cooked and bagged near Mount Jackson.

S henandoah Co. Tourism

continued on page VA-2

More Green. Less Fee. A golfer’s dream. Unlimited play on our green and lush 6,400 yard Shenandoah Valley course nestled amid Virginia’s equally beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Package includes meals and lodging, greens fees and cart for 18 holes daily and extra round for cart fees only!

For more details check out www.luraycaverns.com or call (540) 743-6551.

3 Day / 2 Night Packages from

$245

Per person, double occupancy, plus tax

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 1

There’s a lot to love in Virginia Shenandoah

Before you go

continued from page VA-1 Insider tip: Check out the samples of the different varieties of chips that Sarah Cohen and her crew produce and buy some for the ride home.

“This is a genuine collaborative effort with artisans, garden suppliers, wineries, and farms coming together to support each other and promote the best of Shenandoah County,” French said.

Shenandoah Co. Tourism: visitshenandoahcounty.com — jane and marvin bond

SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017 • 10AM - 6PM

S henandoah Co. Tourism

FRONT ROYAL, VA

Wine Admission Must be 21 or older

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

$25 in Advance - $30 at Gate VIP Admission $50 FREE General Admission n

n

Virginia Wine Tastings from 20 Wineries Arts & Crafts

n

Delicious Food

n

Live Entertainment

n

Fun for the Whole Family!

540.635.3185 • info@frontroyalchamber.com

Bo Willis welds his art together in Shenandoah County.

Join the fun in Shenandoah County, Virginia Our llamas love visitors.

www.wineandcraftfestival.com | www.facebook.com/vawineandcraft

• Farm tours • Fiber yarn & other products • Fiber classes

Come and see us on the O’ Shenandoah Artisan Trail Open Door Weekend April 22-23 and learn all about them.

A working & teaching llama farm

540-436-3517 llamasjh@gmail.com poseythisisitllamas.com Toms Brook, VA

QUALITY INN • Close to battlefield, caverns, golf & wineries.

• Government Employee Discount.

I-81, Exit 264 New Market, Va. 22844 540-740-3141

qualityinn-shenandoahvalley.com V A - 2 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

S henandoah Co. Tourism

Taking a break along the trail at Shenandoah Vineyards, near Edinburg.

There’s a lot to love in Virginia f am ily travel I ami neiberger- miller

Exploring ‘America’s Favorite Drive’ on the Blue Ridge Parkway The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through some of the most scenic beauty Virginia and North Carolina have to offer. This mountainous byway beckons to D.C. families seeking a quick getaway.

If your tastes tend toward the wacky, Dinosaur Kingdom II at Natural Bridge, Va., is hilarious and fun.

Yankee and Confederate troops are juxtaposed in battle with dinosaurs as prehistoric figures meet Civil War history. Discover Stonewall Jackson battling a vicious spinosaurus; see Abraham Lincoln after he’s lassoed a pteranodon chewing up the Gettysburg address. Admission is $6 for ages 6 to 12 and $10 for age 13 and up. (dinosaurkingdomii.com) Located conveniently across the street from Dinosaur Kingdom II is the Natural Bridge Zoo, where you can see live animals after getting your fill of dinosaurs eating Yankees.

It’s a private zoo that focuses on threatened and endangered animals, including elephants, tigers, giraffes, zebras, and tortoises. A petting zoo lets you reach out and touch animals.

Walk among brightly colored Australian budgerigar parakeets (budgies) as they fly freely in an aviary.

Elephant rides are offered on the weekends, noon–3:00pm. The Close Encounters Tour lets guests feed animal babies, get acquainted with a python, and scratch porcupines.

Admission is $8 for ages 3 to 12, $12 for ages 13 to 64, and $10 for seniors. (naturalbridgezoo.com) And, if you still haven’t gotten your fill of animals, the Virginia Safari Park is a 180-acre drive-thru zoo, also near Natural Bridge. Steer your car through more than 1,000 roaming animals and feed them from your car. Hop out of your car at the Safari Village Walk-Thru to feed gi-

raffes, observe tigers, walk through a petting zoo, and watch kangaroos.

Admission is $12.95 for ages 2 to 12, $19.95 for ages 13 to 64, and $18.95 for seniors. (virginiasafaripark.com) Mabry Mill, along the parkway at Meadows of Dan, Va., is home to a historic and working grist mill that turns out flour. Step back in time as you watch blacksmithing, carding, and other demonstrations by National Park Service staff. The mill’s restaurant serves breakfast all day and is renowned for its pancakes.

Free music performances are offered on Sundays in the summer. (mabrymillrestaurant.com)

The National Park Service operates several visitor centers along the parkway, all with a special emphasis on cultural life and the geology of the area. Completing special activities allows children to earn their Blue Ridge Parkway Junior Ranger badge.

If your family enjoys outdoor activities, there are a variety of hikes available in both Virginia and North Carolina, with seven waterfall hikes listed by the National Park Service.

The park service also operates a number of campgrounds, open May 6–Oct. 31, along the parkway. (blueridgeparkway.org) (nps.gov/blri)

MASSANUTTEN A Four Season Family Destination!

WaterPark • Golf • Bike Park • Zip Lines • Dining • Spa • Shopping

Vacation Packages Available!

MassResort.com/Specials recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 3

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I su clausen- wicker

Lynchburg welcomes visitors to its friendly downtown area From Bluff Walk in downtown Lynchburg, Va., pedestrians can see Langley Fountain’s spray shooting 190 feet upward against the skyline, day and night. The walkway also affords views of The Water Bearer statue, the Craddock Terry Hotel’s

S aturday , M ay 6, 2017 1: 00pm - 7: 00pm Downtown Moneta, VA under the big tops at Hwy 122 & VA Rt. 608

Advance Tasting Ticket + Admission $25 (No coolers allowed.)

C hildren 6 and under f ree

540- 721- 1203 V isitS m ithM ountainL ak e. com

Experience two of Virginia’s top attractions for one low price!

For only $19, a Combo Ticket includes admission and guided tour at the National D-Day Memorial and Poplar Forest!

Allow extra time to explore: • Blue Ridge Parkway and Peaks of Otter • Smith Mountain Lake State Park • Bedford Wine Trail • Bedford Artisan Trail • Historic Centertown • Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding • Disc Golf Course • B&Bs and Unique Lodging Options available!

VisitBedford.com 877-HI-PEAKS

big red shoe, and the James River as it sweeps around Percival’s Island.

Walkers see an energetic city with interesting stops such as El Jefe tequila bar, Waterstone gourmet pizza, Ice Cream Dream, and Riverviews Artspace.

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg is a 3 1/2-hour drive from Washington, D.C., but is also easily accessible by Amtrak. Winding through the city are 23 miles of off-street cycling and walking trails, allowing energetic visitors to explore the town sans car.

Visitors to Downtown Lynchburg might find themselves waking to live keyboard music — brightly decorated pianos are scattered throughout downtown, and a virtuoso elf in a sports jacket comes through in the morning giving each a workout.

Runners jog the RiverWalk, crossing a bridge decorated with “love Lynchburg Tourism locks” symbolizing unLynchburg’s riverfront location provides additional recreational breakable love. opportunities.

Insider tip: Developers in this town of 80,000 have preserved the downtown’s historic feel. Chat with shopkeepers who will reveal their buildings’ original purposes, whether blacksmith shops or brothels. They also might expound on Lynchburg’s 200-year history, back to a time when it ranked among 2X daily round-trip Amtrak service the nation’s wealthiest from/to D.C. manufacturing cities.

While it was an important Civil War transportation, supply, and hospital center, no battle entered the city, and visitors can still enjoy Lynchburg’s gorgeous old homes along the brick streets of seven historic districts.

The city’s most famous mansion, Point of Honor, built in 1815, was home to a physician, but Narcissa Chisholm Owen, the mistress of the house, played a role in protecting the city before the Battle of Lynchburg in June 1864. She provided food and

@VisitBedfordVA

V A - 4 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Trending Accessible!

LynchburgVirginia.org

continued on page VA-15

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I gwen woolf

Rooms with a view: 3 Nelson County B&B’s offer home base Choco Taco almost blends into a furry black throw on the sofa near the parlor’s fireplace. The small black dog snoozes in utter contentment, far from any angst over her rescue-pup past or current canine concerns.

That’s the kind of the feeling that Terri Tatarka wants her guests to have at her bed-and-breakfast, WildManDan. Come down to breakfast in your pajamas and socks if you want to — being comfortable and making connections is what it’s all about.

The B&B, in a spacious 1870 farmhouse/post office in Afton, is among several new lodging options in Virginia’s Nelson County. All come with lovely views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and serve as home bases for exploring the county’s attractions.

Tatarka, a tiny dynamo with a big personality and a hospitality background, runs the “beer-centric” B&B with her husband, Dan. His home-brewing system, using 10-gallon tanks, operates out of an old-style red “Coca-Cola” barn. You can enjoy his brews at the house bar, on the wraparound

porch, and at the outdoor fire pit. Or, take beer classes while visiting.

The B&B has five carefully decorated, modern bedrooms, and a separate cabin. The farm-to-table breakfast, perhaps omelets or quiche, starts with dessert — the reasoning being that, like a kid, you feel like you’re getting away with something. (wmdb3.com) Another kind of treat greets guests at the Fenton Inn in Roseland. The entrance suggests a one-story building, but soon the U-shaped structure reveals a surprise in the back: an Old World-style, cobblestoned street layout, complete with village clock, tower, and mini-drawbridge.

Owner William Fenton, whose background is in historic preservation at places such as Monticello, skillfully designed and built the three-story B&B from wood on the property. Its features include hardwood floors, handcrafted beds and tables, and interesting room shapes, woodwork, and door designs.

Fenton’s wife, Lila, who is from Crimea, deco-

rated the six romantic or child-friendly bedrooms with whimsical themes. The breakfast buffet comes with a view of the national forest. Other amenities include a media room, gym, spa, ballroom, gift shop, and patio with a hot tub. (fentoninn.com) continued on page VA-11

K en W yner

The back of the Fenton Inn reminds you of a European street.

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 5

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I martha steger

Discover the arts in western Virginia’s Clifton Forge In the Alleghany Highlands area of the Virginia Mountains Region, off I-64 and along the Jackson River, Jeff Stern describes the spirited rebirth of Clifton Forge: “I’ve never seen a community this size do so much so well.”

The town — where Stern is executive director of the reopened Historic Masonic Theatre — boasts a population under 5,000, but has reinvented itself after the downsizing of local industry and the railroad. Local supporters, especially the Alleghany Foundation, get big credit for repurposing an 1892 lumber mill, 1920s hardware store, grocery supplier, and tire plant.

The architectural treasure at the heart of the new community vision is the three-story, 445-seat, 1905 His-

toric Masonic Theatre, Virginia’s oldest continuously operating theater when it closed temporarily in 1987.

After a $6.9 million painstaking renovation, the storied Masonic has launched a full schedule of performances. Its top floor (once the meeting hall for the Masonic Order) is a rental venue for conferences, reunions, and weddings. The building’s lower area stages smaller performances, and shows from April through October take place in the amphitheater part of the complex.

Stern, who had a long history of theater work before taking his present position, said, “These people don’t think small.”

The 64-year-old Alleghany Highlands Arts Council has always thought big, bringing in world-class

performers in a wide variety of genres, ranging from violinist Daniel Heifetz, the Berlin Chamber Orchestra, and the Royal Shakespeare Company to country/rock artist Charlie Daniels and actor Ed Asner.

Other venues Crossing adjacent streets, I visited the town’s two other mainstays of the arts scene — the Clifton Forge School of the Arts and the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center.

The two-story school — the dream of three Clifton Forge women — continues to expand its offerings in music and art. Opportunities abound for hands-on learning in areas as diverse as stained glass, blacksmithing, and knitting. After enjoying the gallery’s large exhibit of Henrietta Crandall’s paintings, I purchased a fine needlework piece and art supplies in the school’s shop.

Moving on to the 33-year-old Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts

A lleghany Highlands

Browse and buy at the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center in Clifton Forge.

Spring Chamber Music Weekends and Concerts

O

utdoor enthusiasts know of an unspoiled mountain paradise just west of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The only thing more abundant than the birds, wildlife and fish are the stars that come out each night. Opportunities to hike, bike and paddle – like the mountain views – go on forever.

Make your dreams come true in the County of Bath

DiscoverBath.com

540-839-7202 #CountyofBathVA

Photograph by Lee Brauer

Archduke | May 26-28 John McCutcheon | June 3

Garth Newel Piano Quartet

Isaac Melamed, cello Evelyn Grau, viola Teresa Ling, violin Jeannette Fang, piano

Treble-Makers!

Where music is the f irst course Hot Springs, VA | GarthNewel.org | 540.839.5018

V A - 6 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

There’s a lot to love in Virginia Center, I discovered it to be a downtown retail linchpin and exhibition space with an impressive range of local artists’ works.

“Some of our exhibits offer comfort and feel familiar,” said Nancy Newhard-Farrar, the center’s executive director. “Some are more adventurous and push the limits. There’s room for both.”

It proved to be a great place to satisfy my 2017 gift shopping, with locally made jewelry, ceramics, and paintings.

Upcoming festivals showcase the arts

hibits, and a gift shop you won’t want to miss.

The Cork and Pork Festival in nearby Covington, June 23–24 — the same weekend as the Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon — also features arts and crafts displays and demonstrations.

Also in Covington, you’ll find arts and crafts at the 39th annual Streetscene on Aug. 12. And, you can enjoy the “LOVEwork” piece anytime at Humpback Bridge, a one-of-a-kind covered bridge and National Historic Landmark.

Insider tip: For a free, 45-minute tour of the Historic Masonic Theatre, register online at historicmasonictheatre.com.

Make time for dinner at Cat & Owl, a10-minute drive to Low Moor; there, I met folks who drove an hour for the great steak and seafood. And, during

The free sixth annual Alleghany Highlands Heritage Day and C&O Railway Festival is scheduled for June 3, 10:00am–5:00pm.

Town-wide venues will celebrate heritage with continuous live music and arts and crafts. The event includes more than 80 artisan demonstrations and displays ranging from hooked rugs, fiber arts, and vintage quilts to pottery, woodworking, glassmaking, blacksmithing, and apple butter- and soap-making.

A dozen food vendors will offer Celtic, German, Native American, English, AfricanAmerican, and other types of cuisine. Children’s activities, including miniature train A lleghany Highlands rides at the C&O Railway Heritage Center, run throughout the day. The C&O center The renovated interior of the historic Masonic Theatre, also features old rail cars and rail history ex- which has hosted actors like Ben Vereen.

e water h t r e ov

a Penny’s Diner’s breakfast, I felt like a welcome visitor as I chatted with a conductor and engineer for CSX Transportation’s “mountain rail line” that passes through Clifton Forge.

For more information Alleghany Highlands Tourism: visitalleghanyhighlands.com

Final Month for Dog Lovers to Explore this Exhibit!

Open through May 14

Open Daily 9 am - 5 pm Sniff out facts about dogs through May 14

757-595-1900 • thevlm.org

Humpback Bridge is one of the most cherished landmarks in Virginia. Enjoy a picnic in the park and find the right angle for a perfect photo.

Then, jump in for swimming, paddling, fishing and even camping on the rivers and lakes of the Alleghany Highlands Blueway.

on t he w ater

visitalleghanyhighlands.com/humpback 540-962-2178 · 888-430-5786

#HumpbackBridge

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 7

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I susan kim

Mountains of possibili�es for your next vaca�on in the Shenandoah Valley

Bike a little, hike a little, drink a little beer in Lexington

The days are getting longer and Dave Walsh is back to biking on the Chessie Nature Trail, a rail trail linking the town of Buena Vista with the city of Lexington along Virginia’s Maury River.

Our facility offers everything from A three-hour drive from D.C., Lexington is 55 rough camping to full hookups with wooded, waterfront and group minutes east of the West Virginia border and 50 camping areas. Our amenities miles north of Roanoke. include an Olympic-size pool, Walsh, owner of Shenandoah Rides and Rentals, wading pool, tennis courts, ball leads the way for a short ride through the heart of fields, picnic shelters, skating, trails, river fishing, and numerous Lexington, then we find ourselves on the Chessie live entertainment events.

Trail — a flat, crushed gravel route accessible for Come for the Outdoors, Come to get Away...Come Change your View! bicyclists of many skill levels.

Glen Maury Park Is it our imagination, or are people a bit nicer to 101 Maury River Drive, Buena Vista, VA 24416 (540) 261-7321 or visit www.glenmaurypark.com bicyclists in Lexington? Walsh attributes it to the less dense population in an area where people are taught to say hello to strangers. “This is a bike-friendly community,� he said, “and if the drivers don’t know me, well, they know someone who does, so they’re good about sharing the road.�

Insider tip: Ask Hummingbird Inn ... • Daily 11am-4:30pm Walsh about food, as â? 5 guest rooms â? Acre of grounds April through Oct. â? Jacuzzi tubs â? Pet Friendly well as biking. On his • June-Aug. 10am-5:30pm â? Variety of Outdoor Activities

â? Cozy-Comfy & Relaxing

We invite you to visit for a special occasion, outdoor recreation or just a weekend getaway!

30 Wood Lane / Goshen, VA 540.997.9065 / 800.397.3214

Lexington — One of America’s best places to retire!

• Explore 19th Century Lexington at the pace and rhythm of hoofbeats. • Tours begin across from Lexington Visitor Center Lexington, Virginia Historical Tours

www.lexcarriage.com | (540) 463-5647 www.facebook.com/lexcarriage Book your tour online today at www.lexcarriage.com

custom bike tours, he includes food stops and snacks that range from standard peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to more gourmet selections, such as aged gouda on Asian pears, cherries in a balsamic reduction on crackers, or hard salami and brie. One of his post-ride favorites is a plate of sweet potato fries — and he’ll search the Internet ahead of time to find a place that sells them.

For a more restful view with a dash of history, take a carriage ride through town with Shana Layman at the Lexington Carriage Company.

Not your mother’s Natural Bridge This longtime tourist staple has had a makeover, with 1,500 acres now designated as a state park. The Natural Bridge itself — a 90-foot-thick limestone arch standing 215 feet above Cedar Creek — hasn’t changed. But, tour packages are being expanded and revamped, and the attraction is open seven days a week through the spring and summer.

Opt for the “Caverns and Bridge Combo� package ($20 for adults; $12 for kids) that includes the onsite caverns, Natural Bridge, Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit, and Cedar Creek Trail. If you want to add a couple of short hikes, try the 3.3mile Monacan Trail and 1.8-mile Buck Hill Trail in the park. The 30-foot Lace Falls are named for the appearance of the water as it cascades over the rocks.

34 Maggies Lane has 160 beautiful Rockbridge County acres on scenic Buffalo Creek. Updated Shenandoah Valley farmhouse also boasts an Olympic sized lap pool, all for $699,000.

515 Borden Road was home of former president of Washington and Lee and the University of Alabama. This elegant brick manor on 2.04 acres is an easy walk to W&L and all downtown Lexington attractions. Beautiful grounds and separate guest house. $859,000

Rockbridge County.

Natural. History.

V A - 8 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

! "

# $

%

& ! ! ' ' " (

''' !

&) &* +

Smallbut-mighty Buena Vista Buena Vista — a small city of 6,800 on the eastern side of Rockbridge County — is home to the 300-acre Glen Maury Park and Campground, which hosts concerts and private events, and also offers hiking trails and an 18-hole golf course.

The city cut five new walkable trails in Glen Maury Park during 2016, and plans are underway to connect them as a

There’s a lot to love in Virginia loop. The park already connects with the Chessie Trail.

Buena Vista was recently designated a “golf cart-friendly community,” meaning golf carts are allowed on the streets, so be mindful as you travel about town. Also, keep your eyes open for flocks of wild turkeys around the outskirts of Buena Vista.

They’re around, but never for long.

‘Fish and Pick’

Art-gazing, nibbling, lodging The sixth annual Lexington Rockbridge Studio Tour will be held on Mother’s Day weekend, May 13 and 14, and will feature seven artists’ studios with a total of 25 artists exhibiting and selling their work. The free, self-guided tour includes demonstrations of art techniques, and most studios offer snacks and beverages.

The company Roanoke Food Tours offers a

three-hour food tour in Lexington with seven stops: Southern Inn Restaurant, Mano Taqueria, Blue Phoenix Cafe and Market, Pure Eats, The Red Hen, Cheese To You, and Pronto Gelateria.

Insider tip: Ask Meg Hall, owner of Cheese To You, to talk to you about how to care for and continued on page VA-11

This two-day event in May features trout-fishing, two bluegrass concerts, games, food, and camping.

“We stocked the Maury River with 1,000 trout for the Fish and Pick last year,” said Brian Brown, Buena Vista’s director of economic development, who also appears to be in charge of directing people toward fun outdoor activities in his town.

Relax at Fox Hill, a 38-acre Bed & Breakfast retreat located midway between the Shenandoah Valley cities of Staunton and Lexington. Beautiful mountain views, 3-course breakfast, and pet friendly, too.

Cheers to new beers While Devils Backbone Outpost is the most wellknown brewery in the Lexington area, the craft beer selection is growing by mugs and bounds, now with three breweries on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail.

The newest brewery on the trail is the Great Valley Farm Brewery in Natural Bridge, where a gorgeous view is also served. Check out the Blue Lab Brewing Company and Brew Ridge Taps in Lexington, too.

foxhillbb.com Fairfield, VA 800.369.8005

R ockbridge R egional Tourism

The Chessie Trail is a great place to ride or hike.

Sky Slide | Bubble Ball | Archery Tag | Treetop Adventures

Bike Virginia Tour, Buena Vista

SKY SLIDE

OPENING MAY 2017

Plan Your Next Family Getaway Save with Code: Family2017

Must Book By: 6.1.2017 Stay With Us Before: 9.15.2017

Get

OUTSIDE and enjoy our public transportation.

Scenic mountain towns built on southern hospitality, history and culture.

$150 Resort Credit | 3rd Night Free | Breakfast Each Morning | 4 Sky Slide Day Passes

115 Hotel Circle, Pembroke, VA 24136

(540) 626-7121 | www.mtnlakelodge.com

Request a vacation guide at LexingtonVirginia.com

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 9

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I sue bland

Explore Orange County with a saddle or a paddle this spring You can escape your frenetic everyday world with a short trip to the sublime hills of Orange County, Va., where you’ll find great outdoor adventures and the home and estate of the third U.S. president, James Madison. Explore mature forests on horseback, hike historic trails, kayak past Civil War crossings, and explore historic sites and wineries.

I visited Orange just after Presidents Day when master naturalist and chief guide Laura Maddox led our hike through the old growth forest at Montpelier. This is the estate where the “Father of the Constitution” lived with his wife, Dolley, who helped carve out the place for first ladies in America.

Legacy trees more than 200 years old, including cypress and Cedar of

Lebanon, remain on the lawn. The Marquis de Lafayette gave Madison three Cedar of Lebanon seedlings after the American Revolution, and a biblical-looking one stands near the brick mansion.

Maddox explained that the term “old-growth forest” means trees in the forest have reached maturity.

There were many mature red oaks, white ashes, and tulip trees to admire along a 3.5-mile, slightly hilly trail.

She also shared the scent of a spice bush, and said the Montpelier Forest offers the best example of a tulip tree/spice bush community in the Eastern Piedmont of North America.

The legendary pawpaw tree, which survived the Ice Age, grows here, too. It’s the only plant the

151 153 N MARKET! NEW strd Anniversary Reenactment

The nation’s oldest!

Anniversary Reenactment

EW MARKET!

May 2017 May20-21, 16-17, 2015

I-81, Exit 264 in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley The nation’s oldest reenactment — fought on the original ground!

zebra swallowtail butterfly eats, so six months a year you’re sure to see these spectacular flying beauties.

From Montpelier, it’s possible to connect to another trail that leads to the Market at Grelen, with its popular restaurant and fresh food purveyor.

If you haven’t taken the house tour of Montpelier, it’s a must. Guides offer terrific insight into the years James and Dolley Madison lived here. In June, Montpelier will open reconstructed slave quarters after years of archaeological research and input from descendants.

See the visitor center exhibit before heading out, and pick up a copy of the book written by President Madison’s personal servant, Paul Jennings, who lived in the White House.

Ride through history Near Montpelier is Oakland Heights Farm. An oversized horseshoe marks its entrance. Fifty horses graze on the hillside here, and owner David Lamb leads trail rides and runs a regular rodeo with his son.

The tack room is filled with Western and English saddles of all sizes and displays Monacan Indian artifacts found on this land — the same land and forest where best friends James Madison and Thomas Jefferson frequently rode between Orange and Charlottesville. Ride with Lamb and you’ll also see traces of the Civil War battles fought in Orange County.

Lamb has provided horses for presidential parades for years and you’ll know why when you mount one of his gentle equines.

TIME FOR AN ORANGE ADVENTURE

In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley

New Market BattlefiNew eld Market Battlefield State Historical Park State Historical Park New Market, Virginia New Market, Virginia 866.515.1865 vmi.edu/vmcw 1.866.515.1864

V A - 10 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

Whether you’re visiting Montpelier, touring a winery, picking your own berries, enjoying exquisite dining and lodging, hiking, kayaking or horseback riding, your visit to nearby Orange County is sure to be one to remember!

VisitOrangeVirginia.com

There’s a lot to love in Virginia In the nearby town of Orange, there are many spots for wining and dining. Both town and county offer sought-after lodging choices with well-informed hosts at bedand-breakfast and country inn establishments.

Outside town, Rapidan River Kayak runs year-round excursions on the Rapidan River. Accredited by the American Canoe Association, owner Beth Seale loves to help guests spot the eagles nest along her pad-

Lexington continued from page VA-9 identify “real” cheese. Her thoughtful answer will have you rethinking a favorite food.

The Fox Hill Bed and Breakfast Suites in Fairfield — just outside Lexington — offers privacy, a brightly starlit sky, and a friendly greeting from innkeepers Cathy ArcherMiller and Mike Miller.

Pile the dog and the kids into the Stable Suite, where you can wake up, walk out the door, and pet Cody, the horse, and Love Bug, the donkey.

If you don’t bring your own pet, there are two friendly dogs, Benelli and Ruger, who will greet you if you walk into their area of

dling route. She said she’s often watched eagles from fewer than 75 feet away.

Seale points out abundant wildlife in the clear waters just below a millhouse and dam where she puts in the boats. Like the zebra butterflies, she has an affinity for the pawpaw, which grows fragrantly on her land.

For more information Orange Co. Tourism: visitorangevirginia.com

the lovely grounds.

The Hummingbird Inn is a hop, skip, and a jump from Goshen Pass — Virginia’s oldest state-managed natural area — and the Maury River. Visitors can rock on the wide porches and enjoy the deck overlooking Mill Creek.

South River Highlands Country Retreat offers five cabins, dating from 1775 to the early 1900s, and the Hearthstone Lodge, all set on 250 beautiful acres. There are retreat and creative programs throughout the year.

Ride, eat, fish, or rock your way to enjoying Lexington, Buena Vista, and the Rockbridge area this year.

Before you go Lexington Tourism: lexingtonvirginia.com

Nelson County continued from page VA-5 The recently opened Ad Astra Bed & Breakfast in Afton caters to the outdoorsy types who flock to the mountains.

There are 16 miles of walking trails on the property, two personal trainers who can take folks on hikes, a copperinfused hot tub and spa pool that can be reserved for post-hiking, and garage bays designated for cyclists and fly fishermen. Author Rita Mae Brown, a neighbor, sometimes brings her fox-hunting horses by for a visit.

Owner Kristen Obertone drew a design on a napkin that became the “rustic luxe” B&B, where all five bedrooms come with mountain views.

Comforts include a two-sided lobby fireplace, an outdoor deck, reading nooks, a dining room, and a large kitchen for

gourmet breakfasts and cooking classes.

Obertone, a self-professed “book nerd,” chose the John Steinbeck-inspired name Ad Astra (“to the stars”) and “when pigs fly” symbol for her B&B. (adastrabnb.com)

Seeing the sights A stay in Nelson County offers outdoor recreational opportunities, craft beverage facilities, and museums.

Oakland Museum, in an 1838 former tavern and farmhouse, is a major resource for information about the deadly devastation wrought by Hurricane Camille in 1969. Run by the Nelson County Historical Society, the museum holds a Camille commemoration each August.

County history is told through exhibits, photographs, videos, books, oral histories, and artifacts, including a 1938 refrigerator with continued on page VA-13

Enter to Win

Great Brews and Views in Lexington & Rockbridge County, VA

n Overnight Stay & breakfast for two at the Natural Bridge Hotel & Conference Center n 2 One-Day Passes to the Natural Bridge State Park n 2 Adult Tickets to the Caverns at Natural Bridge n Beer tasting at Great Valley Farm Brewery n A Complimentary Attractions Pass for many of the area attractions

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MARCH WINNER!

Hampton, Virginia Getaway John England of Springfield, VA

n $20 gift certificate from Great Valley Farm Brewery n $15 gift certificate to Pink Cadillac Diner n Dessert for two at Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe n $40 Gift Certificate and T-shirt from Walkabout Outfitter n $35 gift certificate to Southern Inn Restaurant *Guests must be at least 21 years of age to book the package. Please check directly with Great Valley Farm Brewery for hours of operation. Please drink responsibly. Beer tasting limited to one flight per person.

Name __________________________________________________________

CONTEST RULES

Address Line 1 _____________________________________________________

1. Fill out coupon at right legibly and completely.

2. Mail to RecNews Contest Dept., 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 OR enter online at RecreationNews.com OR fax this form to 410-638-6902.

3. You may also email to publisher@recreationnews.com. Provide all information in the form at right and enter “APRIL CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 4/17/2017.

Address Line 2 _____________________________________________________

Limit one entry per household. Winner will be drawn at random from the pool of all entries received on time with legible information and will be published in next month’s issue and notified by phone, UPS or email, and notified on April 17, 2017.

Winner must respond by April 20, 2017 to claim prize, or prize forfeits to a runner up. Reservations subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply.

City _______________________________ State _____ Zip Code ___________ Phone ___________________ Email__________________________________

NOTE: Phone and email are required for notification purposes only.

From the information in this issue of Recreation News, what is your favorite destination?

We’ll mail you information on this spot at no charge, or check here___ to “go green” and have information emailed.

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 11

There’s a lot to love in Virginia northern neck

I gwen woolf

Plan an adventure on the Northern Neck Artisan Trail Folks who need a break from life’s hustle and bustle can find it in Virginia’s Northern Neck, where farm fields, waterways, and cute villages offer a slower pace. A great way to explore the region is the Northern Neck Artisan Trail.

The Perfect Getaway… is Not so Far Away

Part of a state network, the diverse year-old trail stretches through King George, Westmoreland, Richmond, Lancaster, and Northumberland counties. Among the 127 sites are artisan studios, craftrelated venues, agri-artisan farms, restaurants, lodging, and other attractions.

The trail provides a connection, support system, and way to maximize available time. Plan your strategy by consulting the trail’s section on artisanscenterofvirginia.org, or pick up a brochure at one of the sites (marked by trail signs). Be sure to check open hours or whether appointments are needed.

Say it with glass

History and romance meet between the rivers of the Chesapeake Bay … come stay in one of our historic inns and enjoy days filled with secluded beaches, wine and heritage trails, quaint towns, and pristine nature.

Plan YOUR perfect getaway at

www.NorthernNeck.org

One unusual way to immerse yourself in art is by taking a weekend “glass getaway” at Zekiah Glass in Richmond County, combined with a stay at the adjoining Chestnut Cove Bed and Breakfast.

Owners are Bob and Barney Harris.

Bob Harris is a retired NASA glassblower, whose work has been exhibited at the National Air and Space Museum. Barney (a nickname for Bonnie) Harris teaches two-day stained-glass classes in a well-organized airy studio. She directs one to four students at a time, mostly novices, in designing, cutting, grinding, and soldering glass. The students’ framed creations go home with them.

“I’ve never had anyone leave who wasn’t totally thrilled,” she said.

Sometimes students come with a design idea, and she draws it for them. Drawers hold bits of glass in different colors and textures; one is simply

Gwen W oolf

“Barney” Harris teaches stained glass work as part of a package at Chestnut Cove Bed and Breakfast. labeled “Weird.” Colorful birds, fish, and flowers are frequent subjects, though one man’s choice was a beaver and another’s was Spider-Man (allegedly for his grandson).

The two-guest room B&B overlooking Morattico Creek is meant for the convenience of class-takers. The stay comes with a home-cooked breakfast and lunch. An open kitchen is the command post, although family cat Smokey supervises from the living-room sofa. (zekiahglass.com)

Enjoy a craft beverage Stratford Hall, also in Westmoreland, promotes the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail’s multiple wineries and artisans at its annual wine and oyster festival, set for Sept. 16–17. Savor Virginia magazine readers voted it the state’s best wine festival.

The majestic 18th-century Lee ancestral home offers tours, a restaurant, an inn, and events

Explore and Experience Colonial Beach, Virginia Great Place to Play, Stay and Get Away.

Close to D.C and Richmond

Summer camps put the Grand into Grandparenting.

www.colonialbeachva.net

Grandparent/Grandchild G d t//G d hild S Summer C Camp att St Stratford tf d H Hallll June 20-22, July 11-13, and August 1-3. Reserve now to get your choice of dates. information visit CampsAtStratfordHall.org or call 804-493-8038.

Mark For yourmore calendar for the11th Annual Wine & Oyster Festival September 17 & 18 For festival information and advance discount tickets visit StratfordHall.org

V A - 12 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

For more information call 804-224-7181

There’s a lot to love in Virginia through the year. One example is the Traditional Trades Fair on May 27, focusing on furniture making. (stratfordhall.org) The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail’s Spring Oyster Crawl, April 22–23, features wine and oyster pairings at each of the participating wineries. (chesapeakebaywinetrail.com)

Craft beer, too Two Westmoreland County breweries are newcomers in the craft beverage mix.

Montross Brewery, owned by John and Roxanne Warren, offers craft beer and old-fashioned ginger ale (reviving a town tradition) on weekends.

Though his background is in wine, brewer John Warren prefers the infinite variations of small-batch beer making. Customers make connections in the rustic tasting room or outdoor picnic tables. (montrossbrewery. com).

Ted Saffos joined forces with brewer Mark Turner to participate in the rejuvenation of Colonial Beach, where their Colonial Beach Brewery and tasting room will occupy a renovated Esso gas station when it opens

this spring, complete with a patio for enjoying the selection of brews that include an IPA, Oyster Stout, and Riverboat Red, among others.

“We’re using as much Virginia grain as we can, thanks to local producers,” Turner said. Spent grain will be used to make pretzels and for raising beer-fed beef cattle.

There are many places to purchase art along the artisan trail. One is The Art of Coffee in Montross, where you can combine lunch with shopping for paintings and crafts. (theartofcoffee.biz) Another option is JarrettThor Fine Arts, a large gallery near the Colonial Beach boardwalk. Owner-artists Joyce and Carl Thor present 30 artists, whose paintings range from traditional to abstract, in rotating shows.

Handcrafted jewelry, wooden bowls, and minerals also are available.

The Thors, who have traveled the world, say Colonial Beach is a good place for artists, with a thriving art guild and Second Friday Art Walk. (jarretthor.com) The trail’s three state parks (Caledon, Westmoreland, and Belle Isle) also are getting in the spirit, add-

Virginia’s River Realm has something for everyone, all you have to do is Find your Shoreline.

ing work by local artists to their gift shops this spring. Catch an eagle tour at Caledon State Park on April 30. Belle Isle celebrates National Kids to Parks Day on May 20 with activities all day long. (dcr.virginia. cov/state-parks) The region’s marine heritage is exemplified by exhibits at the

Morattico Waterfront Museum, which has artifacts relating to Native Americans, as well as the crabbing, oystering, farming, and fishing that supported the area. (morattico.org)

Nelson County

ner’s childhood home in Schuyler and visit the Walton’s Mountain Museum in Hamner’s high school, which features replicas of rooms in the TV series. (walton-mountain.org) Fans recall the show ended with lights going out and family members saying good night to each other.

Good night, John-Boy. Good night, Choco Taco.

continued from page VA-11 a foot pedal, a collection of vintage irons, and an old-fashioned wall telephone like John-Boy Walton would have used. (nelsonhistorical.org) John-Boy was a lead character in the TV show The Waltons, based on the life of Earl Hamner Jr., who grew up in Nelson County during the Great Depression. You can see Ham-

Learn more Northern Neck Tourism: northernneck.org

Learn more Nelson Co. Tourism: nelsoncounty-va.gov/ departments/tourism

MORATTICO WATERFRONT MUSEUM Preserving our past

A hidden treasure full of history in a waterfront village.

May-October Sat. 12-4 pm • Sun. 1-4 pm

6584 Morattico Road, PO Box 80, Morattico, Virginia 22523 www.morattico.org

When you need a quick getaway.

Explore Virginia’s River Realm.

Fun. Events. Eat. Stay. www.virginiasriverrealm.com

f t

Belle Isle | Caledon | Westmoreland 800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 13

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I fran severn

Dismal Swamp Stomp welcomes athletes to Chesapeake in April

Chesapeake Tourism

The Dismal Swamp Stomp Half-Marathon is one of the region’s earliest races, but there is also a 5K and a kids’ Cub Run.

You know it’s spring when runners appear along the roads like early-blooming daffodils, preparing for a new season of races and runs.

One of the earliest and most popular runs in the region is the Dismal Swamp Stomp Half-Marathon in Chesapeake, Va. This year, runners take to the trail on April 8 for the 11th annual event.

It’s popular for both its route and size. Only 2,500 runners are accepted for the USA Track and Field-sanctioned event, which means no gridlock or crowding.

Despite its name, you won’t be slogging through mud. The out-and-back route is on a flat, asphalt surface, easy for all levels of runners, and particularly

nice for an early-season run. The race is a rain-or-shine event, but between the good surface and canopy cover from the trees along the route, it would take a nor’easter to cause any real problems.

The route is also particularly beautiful. The winding course borders the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and moves along the Great Dismal Swamp Canal. More than 200 species of birds and dozens of kinds of wildlife call the forested woodlands home, so runners will be watched, and perhaps paced, by herons, hawks, and curious critters. (For history buffs, work on the hand-dug canal began in the 1790s. George Washington,

THAT TIME you made your weekend

AN EVENT.

All year round, Chesapeake is alive with festivals and events of every kind. And this spring is no exception.

Our beloved Historic Garden Week offers breathtaking tours of homes and gardens. The guided bird walks at Northwest River Park and the Great Dismal Swamp Birding Festival provide some of the best birdwatching in the country. And our guided Skywatch through Northwest River Park affords rich insights into the solar system – complete with the occasional owl sighting.

From food and wine to walks and runs; from concerts and picnics to farmers’ markets and fireworks; Chesapeake is where life’s best moments happen every day. So join us. And make your weekend an event.

Go to VisitChesapeake.com for details and a full calendar of events.

Let the moments begin.

V A - 14 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com

There’s a lot to love in Virginia Union and Confederate troops, and the Underground Railroad all used the canal.)

Insider tip: This year, runners can enjoy realtime technology. They can get free, live splits via mobile devices, Facebook, and Twitter. Each athlete’s bib will contain a QR code that can be scanned with a smart phone. Results will be immediately available on the runner’s mobile device.

Each participant receives a custom race shirt as part of the run’s swag bag. Finishers also receive classy custom medals. Cash prizes totaling $4,000 go to the top five male and female runners in each of 13 age groups. For those whose knees are no longer up to 13 miles of pounding, the top three male and female walkers to finish the half-marathon also receive awards (but no cash).

The half-marathon is only one foot-powered activity that day. A 5K run starts a few minutes after the marathoners jog off. There are no cash prizes for the 5K, but each of the fastest finishers will receive a special award, in addition to their T-shirts and medals.

Back by popular demand, there’s also the kids’ “Cub Run,” a half-mile out-and-back route for kids 12 and younger. Parents are encouraged to jog along with their children. Each participant gets a special medal designed just for the Cub Run. The action continues after the runners finish with a post-race party throughout the afternoon. Runners of legal age can replace their depleted carbs with beer from the Big Ugly Brewery. A local band, the Milk Crate Mafia, will put its own spin on wellknown tunes with acoustic and full electric covers.

There also will be a kids’ play area for the junior runners.

Registration is online at register.chronotrack. com/r/22706. There is no same-day or onsite registration.

Lynchburg continued from page VA-4 misinformation about the size of Confederate reinforcements to soldiers who were really Union spies. Their report convinced the Union commander to withdraw.

Riverfront Park, stretching south from the Amazement Square Children’s Museum, is the epicenter of special events in downtown Lynchburg, including free outdoor movies and concerts during the summer.

With 40 regional acts, Lynchstock Music Festival provides an intensive music experience and is the largest music and arts festival in central Virginia.

Free to children under 13, the festival takes place at Riverfront Park on April 22. (lynchstockmusicfestival.com)

Foodie alert The Lynchburg Food Fest is coming to Riverfront Park on May 20. Fare from local eateries and food trucks includes handcrafted chocolates, wood-fired pizza, cider donuts, eclectic tacos, and an assortment of gourmet and international food and drink.

A perennial favorite, the annual James River Batteau Festival, brings historic flat boats to Percival’s Island on June 17. The event pays homage to the batteaux that carried goods down the river in the 18th and 19th centuries. Festivalgoers enjoy music, games, historic reenactments, and craft demonstrations before and after the fleet of flat boats launch.

blend of history and fun for families and couples.

Home to Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest retreat, as well as the National D-Day Memorial, Bedford exudes a small town pride and patriotism. For fun, its wine and artisan trails often share the backdrop of beautiful Smith Mountain Lake.

Learn more Lynchburg Tourism: lynchburgvirginia.org Bedford Tourism: visitbedford.com

A MA Z E ME NT S Q U A R E R E CE IV E S TO P NA TIO NA L HO NO R

Amazement Square, the Lynchburg children’s museum, proved its value as a winner of the National Medal for Museum and Library Services, the highest honor available to museums from the Institute for Museum and Library Services.

The award recognized the museum’s outreach to local early learning centers and its programs for providing access to children with special needs.

One of the museum’s latest additions is a healthy lifestyle gallery. Here, kids learn about healthy food choices and activities via a superhero theme as they battle bad habit villains. There’s also a new area of activities especially for visitors 3 and younger. (amazementsquare.org) — jane and marvin bond

Nearby Bedford County Bedford County, near Lynchburg, offers its own

For more information Chesapeake Tourism: visitchesapeake.com Race: dismalswampstomp.mettleevents.com DON’T JUST LEARN A B O U T H I S TO RY

live.

HAVE A BLAST

play.

do...

RecreationNews

.com

Plan your trip to Virginia now at

HISTORYISFUN.ORG

recreationnews.com I april 2017 I recreation news V A - 15

There’s a lot to love in Virginia virginia I gwen woolf

Yorktown museum connects visitors with the Revolution The British received a hostile reception in Yorktown in 1781, but the brand new American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is eager to welcome modern visitors. And, as if to show there are no hard feelings, the museum hired British native Peter Armstrong as its operations and educational director.

The grand opening for the mu-

Home of Virginia’s Best Weekend Getaways Since 1752 Smithfield, VA smithfieldinn.com 757-357-1752

The #1 Day-Trip Destination from Virginia’s Historic Triangle.

seum, which has been in the planning stages since 2007, continues through April 4. The handsome brick building at 200 Water St. replaces the Bicentennial-era Yorktown Victory Center.

The new museum has bells-andwhistles technology that would have astounded Gens. George Washington and Charles Cornwallis.

America’s Historic Triangle The Birthplace of American Democracy

Saturdays 8:00am-12:00pm

Interactive exhibits and touchable objects illustrate aspects of the Revolution, inviting you to make a personal connection with those who lived through the war that ended in American independence. One whiz-bang experiential theater with a 180-degree surround screen puts you right in the middle of a sea battle during the Siege of Yorktown, with seats rumbling, wind, smoke, smells, and sounds of ablaze cannons.

The experience starts with a 20-minute orientation film, Liberty Fever, which shows how the war impacted five individuals of different stations in life.

Permanent galleries tell the story through five major themes: the Colonies’ political and economic relationship with Britain leading up the Revolution; the issues that caused the rift; the war itself, from the battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775 through victory at Yorktown in 1781; the challenges faced by the new nation; and the emergence of a new national identity and its impact on America and the world.

Exhibits include a timeline, paintings, maps, and portraits.

There also are dioramas, immersive environments (such as a tavern in a wharf setting), and short films.

Nearly 500 18th-century ob-

jects are on display at the museum, including a newspaper broadside of the 1776 Declaration of Independence, a rare 1741 British infantry musket, and an early-American long rifle.

Outside, more fun awaits, with two areas featuring living history interpreters.

The Continental Army Encampment, just outside the museum building, is triple its previous size and includes a drill field. The Revolution-era farm presents the world of the 18th-century family of Edward Moss. It includes a farmhouse, slave quarters, a kitchen, an orchard, and fields.

A popular day trip takes you across the James River Ferry to Smithfield, where history meets you at every turn. Grab a meal or a room at the Smithfield Inn that dates to 1742. And, yes, George Washington really did sleep here. Tour Historic St. Luke’s Church and find the Pocahontas stained glass window and gaze at the world’s oldest ham in the Smithfield/Isle of Wight Museum.

And, just for fun, look for the decorated pig sculptures around town.

Learn more American Revolution Museum: historyisfun.org Yorktown Tourism: visityorktown.org

Merchants Square 402 W Duke of Gloucester St.

757-259-3768

WilliamsburgFarmersMarket.com

Ja mestown- Y orktown Foundation

England’s perspective on the war is presented in a gallery that includes a portrait of King George III.

MO R E TO

D O

IN Y O R K TO W N

Historic Yorktown comes alive all spring and summer with a host of market days, festivals, and concerts to enjoy, most at Riverwalk Landing: u Pirates Invade Yorktown, April 29–30 u Blues, Brews, and BBQ on the River Festival, May 6 u Yorktown Market Days, Saturdays, May 13–Oct. 28 u Summer Concert Series, Thursdays, June 8–July 27 (except July 6)

V A - 16 recreation news I april 2017 I recreationnews.com