Recreation News, July 27 by Indiana Gazette INC

Recreation SERVING THE EMPLOYEES OF 55 GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATIONS

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July 2017

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Volume 35/Number 7

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NEWS

Pennsylvania treasures

A VIRGINIA BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN GETAWAY Includes 2-Night Stay at Roanokeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hilton Garden Inn, Regional Attractions Passes, 2-Hour Hybrid Bike Rentals, and more!

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culture I gwen woolf

Classical music rejuvenation is the focus at Garth Newel Like Dorothy’s ruby slippers in The Wizard of Oz, Jeannette Fang’s red high heels shine as she pounds the piano keys with a flourish, viewing an iPad rather than turning music pages while performing with the Garth Newel Piano Quartet. A rural lane — not a yellow brick road — leads to the Garth Newel Music Center, which seems like a portal to an Oz-like magical land in the scenic mountains of western Virginia. Here, a classical music oasis improbably exists on a country estate near Hot Springs in sparsely populated Bath County, 200 miles from Washington D.C. Herter Hall, a converted barn where Arabian horses once trained, rings with the thrilling sounds of chamber music played to an appreciative audience of up to 150. Ask center director Shawn Puller about the acoustics in the former equestrian facility and he breaks into song, convincing you the sound quality is exceptional. People come from the region and other states not only for the concerts, but for the Garth Newel experience: a beautiful natural setting, the chance to rub elbows with the musicians, gourmet cuisine, warm camaraderie, and relief from life’s stresses. Garth Newel (“new home” in Welsh) is out to bust the barriers that some people put up against classical music, perceiving it as stuffy and

elitist and requiring formal wear and extensive cultural knowledge.

This place is fun Where else can you sit so close to the stage you can see every musical stroke? Where else do the musicians join the patrons for a post-show meal? Where else did a bear once watch the show from the window? It’s addictive. Many visitors get hooked after one performance and return time after time, making friends with the musicians and each other. For total immersion, spend a weekend in the 1920s-era threestory manor house that is just a short walk to the concert hall on the campus-like 114-acre property. High ceilings, fireplaces, a wood-paneled dining room and library, and nine charming guestrooms named for violin makers make you feel like you’ve stepped into yesteryear. Chat with other guests at breakfast, stroll the grounds or walking trails, or drop by the center to greet the chef or watch a rehearsal. No traffic sounds mar your reverie.

Musical retreat Garth Newel has an interesting pedigree. The original owners, artists William and Christine Herter Kendall, invited their big-city friends to private concerts at the house. The estate was bequeathed to world-traveling chamber musicians Luca and

Summer Chamber Music Weekends

Garth Newel Piano Quartet

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

Photograph by Charles Garrett

July 8 - Sept 3

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

2 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

Garth Newel

The musicians at Garth Newel are full-time employees who present 50 chamber concerts a year and also mentor programs in the community. Arlene Di Cecco, who opened the music center to the public in 1973. Now retired, they still keep a keen eye on its development. Puller, the charismatic executive director of the center, works with a 19-member board of directors overseeing a $1.2 million budget, as well as a quartet of artists-in-residence who give spirited performances akin to musical conversations. In addition to Fang on piano, there is Evelyn Grau on viola, Teresa King on violin, and Isaac Melamed on cello. Puller adds his light lyric tenor voice to the mix. All have impressive credentials. The musicians serve as co-artistic directors and enjoy the freedom to set their own repertoire and focus on performing, rather than touring. Education is a core mission at the center, which sponsors a fellowship

program for emerging artists. Fifty classical and contemporary chamber music concerts are presented year-round, sprinkled with guest artists and other musical genres. Pay-what-you-wish pub concerts are popular. Upcoming highlights include a commissioned work on Garth Newel’s four seasons and a Brahms concert with an Edgar Allan Poe narrative. Take the opportunity to explore the county on your visit. Sip tea at the nearby Omni Homestead Resort or relax with a hot stone massage at the Warm Spirit Spa. The Warm Springs Gallery, which has a new garden café and gift shop, holds an annual plein air festival, Oct. 2–8.

Learn more Garth Newel Music Center: garthnewel.org

virginia I susan kim

Ride to the star and back in Roanoke Let the Roanoke Star be your reward for a 6-mile mountain bike ride that includes a thousand feet of climbing. Start in the Virginia city’s historic Grandin Village and head toward Mill Mountain Park, which includes more than 10 miles of multiuse trails. The star — with a view of the city from 1,045 feet — is “a big part of who we are in Roanoke, welcoming and beckoning all people to come,” said Mayor Sherman P. Lea Sr. The star, constructed in 1949, is illuminated each night and is clearly visible throughout the area. There’s even a web cam at the site so visitors can be “stars” in their own right. It’s a fine picnic spot during the day, too, where you’ll meet other tourists, locals, and artists who come to chill out on warm afternoons. Ryan Gustafson, lead singer of The Dead Tongues band, stretched out on the grass by the star just before he opened for the bluegrass duo Mandolin Orange at the Harvester Performance Center in Rocky Mount. For an easier, flatter ride, try the Roanoke Valley Greenways, a network celebrating its 20th birthday this year and offering more than 30 miles of paved trails along the Roanoke River. This is a good option for families, since the greenways are connected to a string of public parks and playgrounds.

For easy access to the greenways, rent bikes at Underdog Bikes where the mascot dog, Zombie, provides a friendly greeting.

Paddling and touring Buchanan The town of Buchanan, about a half-hour drive from Roanoke, offers on-the-river activities combined with Civil War history. Stop by Twin River Outfitters — operated by twin brothers John and Dan Mays — to rent canoes, kayaks, rafts, and tubes for drifting along the Upper James River. The brothers also put together river trips, combining canoeing and riverfront camping, that range from two to five days. For a unique place to stay within walking distance of Twin River Outfitters, make a reservation well in advance at the James River House, a historic inn on Main Street in downtown Buchanan. It dates back to 1870 and features five guest rooms, each with its own private bath. A walking tour of Buchanan includes some Civil War history, but be sure to make your way across the swinging bridge that stretches between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains. Stop in the middle of the bridge, as it sways gently, to watch the cliff swallows fly over the river. Usually sparse in the Roanoke Valley, these acrobatic birds have

Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Catch performances by the acrobatic cliff swallows from the swinging bridge in Buchanan. built several nests on the middle cement pilings of the Route 11 bridge.

The Blue Ridge brewery incubator The Blue Ridge Mountains have become a breeding ground for craft brewers, entrepreneurs continued on page 12

Discover the many ways to fill your days with fun and adventure in the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, like hiking on the famous Appalachian Trail and mountain biking on the renowned trails at Carvins Cove. Head over to Smith Mountain Lake for fun on the water. Be surrounded by beauty, from the stunning

RISE & SHINE

scenery along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway to the splendor of arts and

in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

culture in the region’s many museums, galleries and performance venues. Or, try all of the above.

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editor’s note I marvin bond

News Flash: They aren’t your grandparents’ museums any more The word museum used to bring to mind dusty artifacts and dark paintings, and it still seems to evoke a love-it-or-hate-it reaction. Much like the Colgate vs. Crest toothpaste allegiance, there are those who find great pleasure in visiting museums, and others who tend to avoid them like the plague.

We in the Mid-Atlantic have lots of world-class museums, such as the Smithsonian’s edifices along the National Mall. But there are numerous others in that category as well. These days, that dusty collection of paintings and artifacts is more likely to be an awardwinning, interactive children’s museum, such as Amazement Square in Lynchburg, Va. Or, it could be the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, Pa., which combines an environmental conservancy with a celebration of the centennial of American artist Andrew Wyeth. Or, it can be The

Valentine History Center in Richmond, Va., which captures the spirit of the city in its exhibits, but also offers walking and bus tours of fascinating neighborhoods and historic sites, including Hollywood Cemetery. There are museums large and small telling local, regional, and national stories throughout the Mid-Atlantic and the nation. You can meet the author at a book talk at the American Civil War Museum in Richmond, search for fossils on the beach at the Calvert Marine Museum, ride a trolley at Pennsylvania’s Rockhill Trolley Museum, and enjoy the beauty of a Maryland tradition at the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum. Most any vacation destination, from the beach at Ocean City, Md., to the mountains around Roa-

noke, Va., has museums to explore. For the eighth summer, the Blue Star Museums program is offering free admission to military families. Some 2,000 museums across the country are participating from

l l a o t n e Op FOR T BELVOIR GOLF CLUB

Memorial Day through Labor Day. Last year, more than 900,000 military members and their families took advantage of the free admission offer and visited science museums, nature centers, children’s museums, and fine art museums. The list of participating museums is available at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. Whether you’re in the military or not, taking in a museum, whether it’s an experience like Colonial Williamsburg or a special interest museum or natural attraction, creates memories and will debunk the old dusty image you may still be carrying in your mind.

Travelers’ Toolbox Lunatec has produced another useful tool for outdoor recreation. The Aquabot takes the water bottle far beyond what you might imagine. The bottle includes a pump that allows you to spray a cooling mist or stream the water for drinking. But, that’s just the beginning: The pump allows you to spray water up to 25 feet, and the bottle can be used to clean off gear or even take a field shower. (lunatecgear.com)

Coming next month North Carolina section Gettysburg museums Northern Appalachian Folk Festival Follow us on Facebook

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publisher’s note I karl teel

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A hybrid American says ‘happy birthday’

continued on page 12

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5 ~ Publisher’s Note 6 ~ Travel Line 8 ~ Morgantown trails 14 ~ Mid-Atlantic caverns 16 ~ Agritourism round-up 17 ~ Family Travel 18 ~ Calendar of Events 21 ~ Hagerstown’s new cultural trail 22 ~ Quilts on barns 23 ~ Get outside with Terrapin Adventures 24 ~ A farm winery stay PA-1 ~ A Susquehanna River Valley escape PA-4 ~ Central Pennsylvania arts festival PA-6 ~ Blair County’s Heritage Passport Discount & Housing Guide

On our cover The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, in Tioga County, features forested hillsides and the Pine Creek Rail Trail along its floor. (Tioga Co. Tourism)

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half relatively new. And, each of these branches has a unique reason to love this country. Certainly, there is nostalgia, heritage, and deep roots (as well as some bragging rights) to the Mayflower side. Most of that wing of the family still resides in appropriately named New England. I think Thanksgiving even has a little more meaning to me as a result of this lineage. I feel as “pure” and American as can be. On my father’s side, first-generation American makes me “pure” American, too, living the ideal and principles this country was founded on. Opportunity brought my father’s family here as refugees seeking a better life. They came, worked hard, planted new roots, and raised a new generation here — the American dream in its purest sense. My grandmother never really learned English, and my father, up to his death, spoke with a thick accent, but loved this country. Even 50 years later, as his native Estonia regained its freedom, he had no desire to return to it. Birthdays are often a time to reflect and take stock. In July, as we celebrate the birthday of our country, I reflect upon my heritage and what America means to me. My story is no different than so many others and, at the same time, unique, just like our nation. We vary in so many ways: mountains vs. plains vs. seashore; urban vs. metropolitan vs. suburban

I’m a hybrid American celebrating the Fourth of July and our nation’s birthday. Hybrid American — what’s that? Like everyone else, my lineage falls under two paths: one from my mother’s side, and one from my father’s. One my mother’s side, we descend from the Mayflower soldier, the fiery-tempered, redheaded Miles Standish, who came on board to protect the Pilgrims in the brave new world almost 400 years ago. While not a Native American, that’s certainly a long time by U.S. standards. On my father’s side, I am first-generation American, as was 18 percent of the population the year I was born and 14 percent of the population today. So, I’m a hybrid: one-half really old roots, one-

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travel line I carol timblin

Traveling the breadth of the surprising Roanoke Valley Blue Ridge Days in the Roanoke Valley can range from mountain hikes to a night out in Roanoke, and from shopping for original art to sampling spirits at a local distillery. We spent several days in the area recently pursuing various cultural venues in the valley. Our first stop was the Haley Toyota Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark, where we watched, from our box seats, the Lynchburg Hillcats beat the Salem Red Sox, 13-7, in a Class A-Advanced Carolina League game. On the second evening of our visit, we laughed until our sides split at a hilarious performance of Moonlight and Magnolias — about the making of Gone With the Wind — at the Mill Mountain Theatre, now housed at Roanoke’s Center in the Square. In the play, producer David O. Selznick, along with his secretary, playwright, and director, hole up in Selznick’s office for several days, ironing out the details of the epic film and acting out various scenes. The theater, which offers year-round plays and musicals, is now in its 52nd year. Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr. is planned for July 26–Aug. 6, followed by Best of Broadway: The Songs of the 2000s, Aug. 18–19. On our third evening in the valley, we drove to Rocky Mount, the eastern gateway to The Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail, for an evening of live music by bluegrass, country, and folk duo Mandolin Orange. The show was at the Harvester Performance Center, a wonderful venue with great acoustics. We also had time to check out the fine handmade furniture, crafts, and other items at Wood Grains American Furniture next door. Upcoming shows at the Harvester include the Talking Dreads, July 14; The Jerry Douglas Band, July 18; Emmylou Harris (standing seats only), July 20; Sam Bush, July 22; Sister Hazel, July 23; and Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, July 29. The month of August is filled with shows, too, including The Dead Reckoning: Celebrating the Life of Jerry Garcia on Aug. 5; Don Felder, of Eagles fame, on Aug. 10; and Lee Greenwood on Aug. 18.

Building on that moonshine heritage, Franklin County Distilleries sells White Label Corn Whiskey in Virginia’s ABC stores, and recently opened its tasting room in Boones Mill. Boones Mill also is the home of the new Hammer & Forge Brewing Company, one of several craft breweries in the Roanoke Valley. Roanoke and Salem offer a variety of places to stay, including the Historic Hotel Roanoke. There also are many restaurants in the walkable downtown and throughout the neighboring area. (visitvablueridge.com)

Elsewhere in the Mid-Atlantic Carol Timblin

The Grandin Theater in Roanoke is in its 85th year of showing movies. Another cultural experience worth the time, according to our fellow travelers, is an evening at the historic Grandin Theater in Roanoke, now in its 85th year and continuing to show new movie releases. Daytime cultural experiences in the Blue Ridge Mountains included visits to the O. Winston Link Museum, which honors the renowned work of the man who photographed the final days of steam locomotives, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which houses rolling stock and other exhibits. Nearby, there’s always something exciting going on at the Taubman Museum of Art, and this summer is no exception. Now showing, through July 16, is Homeward Bound, to be followed by Earthly Delights: Judith Leiber Handbags “Gardens and Flowers,” July 16–Oct. 29. Roanoke’s highly successful public art program is best appreciated via a guided tour of the city’s downtown. Begin at the Center in the Square building and continue through Elmwood Park — a showcase of one-of-a-kind outdoor sculptures. Roanoke Open Studio Tours, held every spring for the past 17 years, provides access to local artists and the places where they work. American crafts such as weaving, handcrafted jewelry, glass-blowing, stained glass, pottery, furniture, quilts, and more can be seen on the designated White Lightning Artisan Trail in nearby Franklin County, also known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World.”

9 2nd Annual Chincoteague, Virginia Family adventure awaits at

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2018 Pony Swim: J uly 25 , 2018 - Pony Auction: J uly 26 , 2018

6 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

Don’t miss the Fourth of July celebration in Washington, D.C., this year. Watch the Independence Day parade along Constitution Avenue, celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives Building, and enjoy the Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the National Mall. Summer also is the ideal time to celebrate the arts in the Mid-Atlantic region. Music lovers will enjoy “The Fountain of Youth” during the Wintergreen Summer Music Festival and Academy, July 8–Aug. 6, with free previews starting July 6. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the festival features classical, jazz, pop, and Broadway music, as well as cooking classes, seminars, and concerts at nearby wineries, cideries, and breweries. This year, Elisabeth Adkins, a well-known musician, teacher, and coach in the D.C. area, will serve as concertmaster of the Wintergreen Festival Orchestra, as well as a featured artist, guest recitalist, and faculty member of the Wintergreen Academy. (wintergreen performingarts.org) A full schedule of programming continues at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Va., including: the National Symphony Orchestra, July 7–8, 14–15, and 28; Diana Ross, July 25; Aretha Franklin, July 29; La La Land in Concert, Aug. 4; Lyle Lovett, Aug. 11; Mary Chapin Carpenter, Aug. 12; The Beach Boys, Aug. 20; and Il Divo, Aug. 31. (wolf-trap-farm.ticketscenter.com) Spectacular events, beautiful gardens, live music, special exhibits, and breathtaking fountain performances await visitors at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pa., through Sept. 30. Fountain performances are held daily at 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, and 5:00pm. There are extended hours Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with additional a performance at 7:00pm and an illuminated performance at 9:15pm. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. The Beer Garden, 1906 Fine Dining Café, and concessions will extend their hours for those who wish to dine before the performances. (longwoodgardens.org)

Other travel news Mark the calendar for Aug. 21, the day of the total solar eclipse. Its path will be visible from Salem, Ore., to Charleston, S.C. Check eclipse2017.nasa.gov for updates. Carol Timblin welcomes travel news at ctimblin@ gmail.com.

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recreationnews.com I july 2017 I recreation news 7

west virginia I matthew graham

Four places to head off the beaten path in Morgantown The mountains and valleys of West Virginia near Morgantown offer spectacular hiking opportunities: Cooper’s Rock, the Monongahela River Trail, and even the West Virginia University Arboretum in the heart of town. These scenic destinations, however, can sometimes become crowded during late summer and early fall when Washingtonians are trying to escape the heat or leaf-peepers are out to witness the autumn foliage. Fear not. There are so many wild spots in this part of West Virginia that it’s easy to find trails off the beaten path. The main overlook at Cooper’s Rock State Forest is usually a hubbub of activity with carloads of tourists taking in the panorama. Nonetheless, the nearly 13,000-acre park has so many trails it is easy to find peace in quiet in the woods. The Raven’s Rock Overlook trail, on the southern side of the state forest, leads to what many believe is the best view of the Cheat River Gorge. The 1.5-mile-long trail can be combined with several other smaller pathways to form loops with narrow passages through the cliffs of Rock City and deep into the forest thick with rhododendron. Vanessa Orr

The view from the Coopers Rock Overlook is one of the most popular in the area.

continued on page 10

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Morgantown continued from page 8

Carriage & Heritage Museum Carriaae & Heritage Museum of the Branch Sou1h BranchValley Valley• 304-257-2431 of the South • 304.257.2431

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The northern side of the park offers an even deeper woods experience, with moss-covered hardwoods, a small lake, stream crossings, and ample opportunities to listen to the silence. In all, there are more than 20 named hiking trails. (coopersrockstateforest.com) Cranesville Swamp provides a glimpse of a northern tundra-like environment right here in the Mid-Atlantic. The 1,650-acre nature preserve can be explored via five trails, each under 2 miles in length.

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Stroll along a 1,500-foot-long boardwalk atop the spongy bog. Grasses and ferns, including the scarce Bog Fern, sprout up on both sides of the walkway. The preserve is home to more than 48 rare species of animals and plants and 100 song birds. It is not uncommon to see beavers, hawks, and owls along your walk. Other creatures include snakes and the elusive southern water shrew. Hike into a former pine plantation, where the tall narrow pines are so densely packed that few other plants or animals can survive in what is called an ecological desert. Trails also meander into a mixed landscape of low pine trees, rhododendron, and beautiful mountain laurel. (nature. org, search “cranesville swamp”)

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10 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

A forest of hemlock Cathedral State Park lifts the spirit to the heavens as hikers walk through a magnificent forest of towering hemlock trees — some up to 90 feet high and 21 feet in circumference. The 133-acre state park features six short trails amongst the ancient, virgin hemlocks. The main Cathedral Trail is slightly more than 1 mile long and runs along a picturesque creek. Thirty other species of trees lie within the not-too-hilly terrain and the undergrowth is resplendent with ferns and wildflowers in the spring and summer. (cathedralstatepark. com) Decker’s Creek Trail starts out as a paved pathway in downtown Morgantown. It’s a favorite spot of locals for walking and biking. As the

trail leaves the city and ascends into the mountains, it turns to crushed stone and becomes less crowded. The grade tops out at 1,000 feet, with spectacular views of the Monongahela River Valley and Decker’s Creek. Whitewater rapids punctuate the creek and are a playground for kayakers. You’ll also find rocky cliffs and overlooks of several small, yet breathtaking, waterfalls. In all, the trail is 19 miles long one way. It may be accessed at a variety of parking areas to tailor a hike to your preferred length. (montrails.org/ rail-trail-maps)

Learn more

The heart of the Eastern Panhandle. Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV

Morgantown Tourism: tourmorgantown.com

Morgantown Tourism

Some of Morgantown’s trails start in town and take you to totally different landscapes outside the city.

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Roanoke continued from page 3 who love to talk about beer, whether it’s their own or a friend’s down the road. Drop by Soaring Ridge, Big Lick, Twin Creeks, Hammer & Forge, or Chaos Mountain breweries — or plan a visit to all of them. Insider tip: Try a “crowler,” a smaller version of the growler, for a more portable, easy-to-chill vessel for your favorite beer. Llama wool dyeing July 16 10am-4pm

Our llamas love visitors!

We are now a trail site on the Artisan Center of Virginia!

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

A working & teaching llama farm

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

The drive out to Chaos Mountain Brewery — about 30 minutes from Roanoke — is a twistyturning trip near Cahas Mountain, so visit the website for directions and don’t rely on your GPS. The name of the brewery — originally Cahas — devolved over a few beers into “Chaos,” and the eye-catching graphics make for fun T-shirts and pint glasses. Chaos Mountain Brewery also hosts regular pub runs; choose between a 3- or 5-mile route.

The fiber of the gods? Paradise really can be a 4-mile run when you combine it with a Blue Ridge sunrise and alpaca running socks. At Pacabella Farm, in Wirtz, Va., owner Robin Watson shared that alpaca fleece has been known as the “fiber of the gods” for about 2,000 years. “Only royalty was allowed to wear alpaca,” she said. After purchasing a pair of alpaca running socks, I was fully ready to feel like a queen. Alpaca fleece is unbelievably soft. And Java and Myka, the two alpacas I met at the farm, were unquestionably friendly and cute. But would alpaca really make a good performance fabric? Time for a test drive — or run, in this case. Four miles later, it’s all true. I’ve never had a more comfortable running sock. It turns out alpaca wicks away sweat, stays soft, is lightweight, and

Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

The alpacas at Pacabella Farm produce what’s been called “the fiber of the gods,” which the owners turn into running socks. works in the 70-degree temperatures I was in, as well as in colder weather. No wonder the gods preferred it. The Roanoke area, which bills itself as Virginia’s Blue Ridge, has established a reputation as an outdoor recreation destination with all kinds of biking, running, and on-the-water activities. But, it also remains a cultural and dining destination, with museums, theaters, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy. “We like to think of this as a metro-mountain destination that you can really make your own,” said Debora Wright, who promotes the area.

Learn more Roanoke Area Tourism: visitvbr.com

PUBlisher’s NOTE continued from page 5 vs. rural; traditional vs. contemporary. We vary by region: New England, the deep South, the Rust Belt, the farm belt, the mountains, the Pacific Northwest, the southern California area, and the Mid-Atlantic. You don’t have to go that far to see the variety. You can see farms in virtually every area of our region, the mountains that marked the early frontier, and the urban adventures in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, WilmGIANT ington, and Richmond. ® They’re all within a short drive. SCULPTURES Personally, I’ve been to 40 of the states, and Opening July 22! no doubt will hit the other 10 in due time. I enjoy it all, from a cutting-edge New York City vibe to Glacier National Park’s peaceful unspoiled beauty, and everything in between. I love the people I meet along the way. I love this country and want to a Smithsonian see it all. Don’t you? We Traveling Exhibition are here to help. Happy 757-595-1900 Open through July 9 birthday, America! thevlm.org

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caverns I jane and marvin bond

Cool off in one of the region’s 20 underground show caves For an underground adventure, check out the Mid-Atlantic’s commercial show caves. They offer educational tours and a constant temperature in the mid-50s to cool you on a hot summer day. Plus, in addition to the fascinating formations and distinctive colors that vary

from cave to cave, there are a host of other entertainment options. Some caverns even offer adventure cave experiences, but check for reservation requirements. The region’s caverns offer gift shops that range from country chic to 1950s kitsch. Each cavern’s experi-

ence is reasonably priced and fun for the whole family. Tours generally last about an hour, but check websites for specific tour hours that might vary seasonally. Most caverns’ websites also have discounted admission offers, but not all are open year-round. Remember to take a jacket and good walking shoes.

PENNSYLVANIA Coral Caverns, Manns Choice 814-977-9570 Bedford County’s Coral Caverns includes its namesake formation, a towering fossil wall containing the fossil remains of coral and other sea creatures that lived in the Great Inland Sea during the Devonian Period millions of years ago. Open weekends, mid-May through September. Call for appointments on other days.

Lost River Caverns

The formations at Lost River Caverns really do transport you to another world.

Crystal Cave Park, Kutztown 610-683-6765, crystalcavepa.com Pennsylvania’s oldest commercial cave gets its name from the diamond-like crystals adorning its walls. At its free museum, artifacts include an omnibus that transported early tourists and an Amish buggy. You can also pan for gems at the sluice, play miniature golf, walk the nature trail, and enjoy the ice cream parlor and cafe during July and August. Historic lantern tours will be offered at Halloween with reservations.

Indian Echo Caverns, Hummelstown 717-566-8131, indianechocaverns.com At Indian Echo Caverns at Echo Dell, there’s a 45-minute tour complete with legends of the Susquehannock Indians and the “Pennsylvania Hermit,” William Wilson. See calcite formations and underground lakes. Outside, pan for gemstones, visit the petting barnyard, enjoy a picnic, and see real Texas longhorn cattle. It’s all close to Hershey’s attractions and is open all year. Laurel Caverns, Hopwood 800-515-4150, laurelcaverns.com This is Pennsylvania’s largest cavern, with some spaces as high as 50 feet; various caving and rappelling activities are offered, in addition to a guided tour. You can pan for fossils and gemstones or play miniature golf on the Kavern course, which has holes that reflect unique aspects of the cave. From the observation deck you can view five Pennsylvania counties. Open daily, April 20–Oct. 30.

Lincoln Caverns, Huntingdon 814-643-0268, lincolncaverns.com Located near Raystown Lake, the attraction offers a tour of Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks and offers flashlight and photography tours, as well as family nights on select summer evenings with advance reservations. You can pan for gemstones and take a walk on the nature trail, too. Open daily, April to Octo• 1-hour Guided Tour ber, with more limited • Miniature Train hours in November and • Mirror Maze December. Tickets are • See Rare Anthodites available online.

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1.888.430.CAVE 1.888.430.CAVE www.pennscave.com 222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall, Pa 814.364.1664 14 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

GRAND CAVERNS A National Natural Landmark

www.grandcaverns.com

Lost River Caverns, Hellertown 610-838-8767, lostcave.com The tour is a walking one, but you do see a part of the Lost River in the cave. You also can enjoy the Gilman Museum’s fossils, gemstones, and antique guns, as well as the rock shop, with new minerals, fossils, and fluorescents. There’s also a nature trail and gem mining. Open daily, except for Jan. 1, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Penn’s Cave, Centre Hall 814-364-1664, pennscave.com Located near Penn State University, its tour by boat might make Penn’s Cave the most unusual of the nine show caves in Pennsylvania. For a separate fee, you can get lost in the Miner’s Maze; take a 90-minute guided wildlife tour that includes North American animals such as the cave’s icon, the mountain lion; or hop aboard a Jeep for an off-road adventure. Kids and adults also enjoy panning for gems and grabbing a bison or longhorn burger in the cafe. The attraction is open year-round. Woodward Cave, Woodward 814-349-9800, woodwardcave.com The property offers a 45-minute tour of its cave formations and has a 13-acre campground with cabin rentals and holiday events. The campground now has Wi-Fi. Among the five underground rooms are the Hall of Statues, a 200-foot-long underground room that includes a 14-foot stalagmite, and the Ballroom, which has been used for square dances and banquets. Open daily in the summer through Labor Day, and weekends in April, May, and September.

MARYLAND Crystal Grottoes, Boonsboro 240-217-7623, crystalgrottoescaverns.com The cave is about an hour from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore and is said to have more formations per square foot than any other known cave. The third-generation owner says he learned the tour script from his grandfather when he was 6 years old. Camping is available. Cash only; no credit cards accepted. Coupon can be found on the website. Open April 1–Nov. 30.

VIRGINIA Dixie Caverns, Salem 540-380-2085, dixiecaverns.com Located near Roanoke, this is the southernmost Mid-Atlantic cavern, and its tour takes you up into the mountain and down into its depths. Above ground, there is year-round camping, a rock and mineral shop, and an antiques mall. Open all year.

the sluice, tour the Yellow Barn’s beehive, carriage and farm equipment, and Virginia Wine Shop. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the American Celebration on Parade features 27 huge parade floats, some animated. Open all year.

Luray Caverns

The famous stalactite pipe organ at Luray Caverns plays music on the tour. Endless Caverns, New Market 540-896-2283, endlesscaverns.com The caverns feature miniature pools, draperies, and columns, and it’s true that no end has been found to the cave. The tour takes about 75 minutes. Endless also offers a campground and RV park above ground and is open until Nov. 15. Grand Caverns, Grottoes 888-430-CAVE, grandcaverns.com This is said to be the oldest U.S. show cave, and on your 70-minute tour you’ll see Civil War-era graffiti and unusual shield formations. The park also offers hiking and biking trails, miniature golf, and an Olympic-sized pool. You can take an adventure tour of a wild cave with reservations. There’s a bluegrass festival Sept. 5–11. Open all year; a coupon is available on the website. Luray Caverns, Luray 540-743-6551, luraycaverns.com Luray is known as the largest cavern in the East. Its tour includes massive columns and music from the famous “stalacpipe” organ. Admission includes the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, the Luray Valley Museum, and Toy Town Junction’s massive collection of toys and trains.

Underground tours Museum & nature trail Pan for gems

Restaurant & ice cream parlor Miniature golf Gift and souvenir buildings

963 Crystal Cave Rd. Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-6765 www.crystalcavepa.com

Natural Bridge Caverns, Natural Bridge 540-291-2482, naturalbridgeva.com This is the deepest commercial cavern on the East Coast, is relatively young for a cave, and is one of the region’s most “active” caves. The tour takes you 34 stories deep into the earth to see straws, flowstone cascades, draperies, and pools. The Natural Bridge, the Monocan Indian Exhibit, and other activities are on the property. Open MarchNovember. Shenandoah Caverns, Shenandoah Caverns 540-477-3115, shenandoahcaverns.com The caverns are handicapped-accessible, with an elevator and no steps along the hour-long tour of 17 underground rooms. In addition to the caverns, visitors may search for treasure in

Cave mansion.

1st Show Cave in

Between Allentown and Reading in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country

A garden maze attraction and gem sluice is extra, as is the Rope Adventure Park with three levels of rope challenges. Open all year.

Magical crystal formations where the Lost River flows. Cavern tours, museum, rock and gift shop, gem panning.

726 Durham St., Hellertown, PA 18055

lostcave.com | 610.838.8767

Skyline Caverns, Front Royal 800-296-4545, skylinecaverns.com Located at the north entrance to Skyline Drive and the closest to Washington, D.C., the caverns include rare anthodites and three streams, as well as the Rainbow Waterfall and an award-winning lighting system. You can take a miniature train ride or navigate the Mirror Maze for an additional fee. A half-mile nature trail is free. Open all year; a coupon is available on the website. A bit farther away, West Virginia’s caves include Lost World Caverns in Lewisburg, Organ Cave in southern West Virginia, Seneca Caverns in Riverton, and Smoke Hole Caverns in Seneca Rocks.

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recreationnews.com I july 2017 I recreation news 15

agritourism I jane and marvin bond

Going ‘down home on the farm’ means great family fun Our area is filled with opportunities to enjoy “down home fun” on the farm. There’s an abundance of “pick your own” places, but many agritourism businesses are rapidly expanding, offering live entertainment, tours, and fun recreational activities. Here’s a selection of regional attractions. To find out seasonal hours, and what activities are offered, check the websites.

MARYLAND Carroll County Farm Museum 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org The farm museum shows life in early America with an original 1700s log barn, smokehouse, broom shop, saddlery, springhouse, wagon shed,

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firehouse, one-room schoolhouse, farmhouse, and a general store. Costumed guides transport you and your family through history to a bygone era. Clark’s Elioak Farm 10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, Md. 410-730-4049 (petting farm), clarklandfarm.com This is a “rootin’ tootin’” good

time on the farm. Enjoy the petting zoo, cow train, hayrides, and pony rides. Attractions from a bygone amusement park, fondly known as the Enchanted Forest, have moved to the farm, giving it a magical fairy tale quality. See the Cinderella pumpkin coach, Mother Goose and her gosling, the Old Woman’s shoe, the continued on page 17

GET OUT & PLAY IN THE ‘BURG! Making Family Memories Plan a day in Harrisonburg, Virginia! Start at Back Home on the Farm, then to DQ Chill and Grill, Explore More Discovery Museum and finally wrap up at Mt Crawford Creamery.

Questions? Ask bucket@shenandoahvalleykidstrail.com

GoBlueRidgeTravel.com/Harrisonburg-Kids-Trail

visitqueenannes.com | 410-604-2100

PICK-YOUR-OWN ADVENTURE IN HOWARD COUNTY, MARYLAND! Farm adventures, local food, and family fun GETTYSBURG, PA

FREDERICK BALTIMORE WASHINGTON, D.C.

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Immerse yourself in the stunning views of nearby National Parks or indulge in cutting-edge cuisine in bustling Main Street communities full of unique shops and museums. You’ll love being at the center of it all in

HIP & HISTORIC FREDERICK COUNTY, MARYLAND 800-288-TRIP (8747) VisitHowardCounty.com/outdoors/farms

16 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

visitfrederick.org

family travel I ami neiberger-miller

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Get Out and Play in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Known for being family-friendly, Harrisonburg, Va., is a wonderful destination for a day or weekend trip with your family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Get Out and Play in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burgâ&#x20AC;? on the Shenandoah Valley Kids Trail and enjoy a wealth of fun for all ages. Harrisonburg is situated in the center of the Shenandoah Valley, less than two hours from Washington, D.C. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Shenandoah Valley Kids Trail mission is to get kids and their families out of the house playing together, while they learn through traveling the Shenandoah Valley. The Kids Trail is centered around fitness, creativity, wellness, and cultural heritage,â&#x20AC;? said Nancy Craun, who promotes the trail. The Kids Trail covers more than 100 miles off I-81. Bucket, a fun green and purple snail, is the trailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mascot, who loves fitness and the outdoors. Kids can join Bucket and her friends, Shenny, Ridge, and Fungi, to play Bucketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Travel Game. Participants can even win a GoPro Hero Session HD Waterproof Action Camera by taking a selfie while out on the trail at a partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location and posting it to the Shenandoah Valley Kids Trail Facebook page. (facebook.com/shenandoahvalleykidstrail ) Craun suggested a fun family itinerary: Visit Back Home on the Farm, a 240-acre agritourism farm with a bounty of attractions. It is perhaps best known for its Butterfly House, open until Aug. 21, where the whole family can study the lifecycle of the monarch, and even have butterflies land on them. The Bluegrass Festival on July 23

Agritourism continued from page 16 house of the Three Little Pigs, a castle, and much more. Venture into the Pine Tree Maze and spot childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storybook favorites. You can also pick up produce, eggs, meat, and other goodies in the farm store to take home. Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum 12985 Frederick Road, West Friendship, Md. 410-489-2345, farmheritage.org Learn how to plow with a mule-led team, see antique tractors and threshing machines in action, and tour the museum. Catch the annual Farm Heritage Days, Sept. 23â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24. The museum has 6 miles of nature trails available for hiking, biking, horseback riding, picnics, educational walks, and more. Misty Meadow Farm Creamery 14325 Misty Meadow Road, Smithsburg, Md. 301-824-2112, mistymeadowsfarmcreamery.com This family farm operation makes a variety of flavors of ice cream on site. Tour the dairy, meet the barnyard animals, take a wagon ride around the farm, play on the pedal tractors and in the play area with your kids, and enjoy wholesome cheese, yogurt, or bottled milk. The country store offers toys and gifts, as well as dairy products to take home. In the fall, there are two corn mazes for different age groups and a pumpkin patch.

benefits a local charity, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Heroes Festival on Sept. 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11. (backhome-onthefarm.com) Stop for lunch at Harmony Square DQ Grill and Chill. Craun said this is an environmentally green-awarded restaurant with a great playground for the kids. (facebook.com/harmonysquaredq/) Next, head to Explore More Discovery Museum, an interactive childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s museum where kids can explore the history of agriculture in the Shenandoah Valley, as well as other sciences and arts. There also is a TV station and a drama stage. (iexploremore.com) Finally, wrap your day up at Mt. Crawford Creamery. If you arrive by 3:00pm, you can feed the baby calves, then watch the cows being milked at 3:30pm. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come in the afternoon, you can still visit and see the baby calves and whole farm. (mtcrawfordcreamery.com) Insider tip: Do not leave without a taste of pasteurized white milk, real buttermilk, or chocolate milk. These are totally different from the homogenized milk you get in grocery stores. And, of course, there is ice cream. This summer, Smileyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ice Cream will be opening up an ice cream parlor on the farm. If you are staying overnight near or in Harrisonburg and planning another day to play in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burg, some other options might include going on a hike in Shenandoah National Park (nps.gov/ shen) or a visit to Massanutten Water Park. (massresort.com) A night at the Family Drive-In Theater, a retro 1950s-style outdoor drive-in theater, can be a lot of

Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm 6411 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Md. 301-839-1176, nps.gov/oxhi A National Park Service site and once an 1812era plantation, Oxon Hill shows willing farmhands how to do the daily work of an early American farm. Visitors can milk cows, feed chickens, and churn butter or just take a self-guided tour. Try the activity area for kids in the barn. Biking and hiking trails are also available. South Mountain Creamery 8305 Bolivar Road, Middletown, Md. 301-371-8565, southmountaincreamery.com Tour the dairy, watch the cows being milked, meet the new calves, or visit during feeding time. This fully functioning dairy farm supplies dairy products to more than 9,000 households in the Washington, D.C.-metro area. Guided one-hour tours are available. A childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area and picnic pavilion are offered. Stop in Karenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kountry Store for snacks and ice cream.

VIRGINIA Back Home on the Farm 2915 Willow Run Road, Harrisonburg, Va. 540-442-6493, backhome-onthefarm.com These farmers want to share their love of the land and their animals with anyone who wants to visit. A butterfly conservatory, greenhouse, and a fully restored antique carousel are unique features. You can also enjoy a country tea, visit the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area, go through the lavender maze, or enter the rubber ducky races. In the fall, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a cornfield maze, pig races, and other activities. continued on page 20

fun for young and old. (thefamilydriveintheatre.com) There also are many possibilities for fun with area festivals. The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival begins July 21 and runs through September. (musicfest.org) The Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre features Beauty and the Beast from July 6 to 16 and Hairspray from July 20 to 30. (ssmtva.org) And, on Aug. 12, the Mackintosh Fruit Farm will hold its annual peach festival and a Honey Bee Day on Aug. 19. (mackintoshfruitfarm.com) â&#x20AC;&#x153;My grandkids can hardly wait to come back to the valley every summer to explore, hike, visit a farm, attend a musical, and so much more,â&#x20AC;? said Craun.

For more information Shenandoah Valley Kids Trail: shenandoahvalleykidstrail.com

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recreationnews.com I july 2017 I recreation news 17

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

ROCK THE DOCK MUSIC SERIES Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays in July. Enjoy great music, food, and drink while sitting on the beach overlooking the bay. Listen to a variety of music genres with your feet in the sand. Choose your favorite music type, or experience something new while dining and dancing on the beach. Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa, Chesapeake Beach, Va. rockthedock.com

July 2017 July 4 Independence Day

HOLIDAYS

ALDERSON 4TH OF JULY July 1–4. Parade includes fire trucks from four counties, floats, old-time cars, kids on patriotically decorated bicycles, and equally attired horses. Family-friendly events include canoe races, cornhole tournament, ice cream social, and field events where parents sprint 50 yards with their children. Alderson, W.Va. alderson4th.com JULY 4TH FEST July 2–4. Celebrate the independence of our country with three jam-packed days of thrills and water park fun. There will be fireworks and live entertainment every night. 13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-249-1500, sixflags.com/america GRANT COUNTY CELEBRATION July 3–4. Concerts, car show, parade, flag ceremony, inflatable playground equipment, water slide, pony rides, horseshoe contest, free swimming at city pool, and huge fireworks show. Petersburg, W.Va. 304-257-9266, visitgrantcounty.com CELEBRATION AT MOUNT VERNON July 4, 9:00am–5:00pm. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreath-laying ceremony, and free birthday cake for all. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Va. 703-7802000, mountvernon.org STRIPES AND STARS EXPLOSION July 4. With a program that encompasses patriotic songs, Broadway standards, movie themes, and folk music, nostalgia reigns as the presentation segues into a magical fireworks show that explodes over the oceanfront in brilliant colors and patterns. Oceanfront, Virginia Beach, Va. 800-822-3224, beachstreetusa.com YORKTOWN INDEPENDENCE DAY July 4, 9:00am–9:30pm. A family-friendly celebration featuring an 8K run and 5K walk, a patriotic parade, patriotic concert, and fireworks. Historic Yorktown, 331 Water St., Yorktown, Va. 757890-3500, yorkcounty.gov CONCERT AND FIREWORKS July 4. Enjoy a free concert at 8:00pm, followed by fireworks at 9:30pm. Two locations, on the beach at North Division Street and at Northside Park on 125th Street, Ocean City, Md. ococean.com STARS IN THE SKY July 4, 7:00–10:00pm. As dusk approaches, the stage comes alive with music. As the last note from the concert ends, the sky over the James River explodes with a kaleidoscope of color in a spectacular fireworks show. Victory Landing Park, 50 25th St., Newport News, Va. 757-926-1400, nnva.gov BALTIMORE JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4, 7:00–10:00pm. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the site for an Independence Day celebration with fireworks beginning at 9:30pm. Baltimore, Md. promotionandarts.org A CAPITOL FOURTH July 4, 8:00–9:30pm. The all-star musical and fireworks extravaganza will kick off the country’s 241st birthday. The concert will also feature a tribute to men and women in uniform by country music star and Grammy-nominated Trace Adkins, who will perform his new single “Still a Soldier.” Broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C. pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE July 4. Parade will take place rain or shine, 10:00am–noon. Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center open house will be held 9:00am– 4:00pm. Superhero Fest will take place noon–1:00pm. Evening show and fireworks are scheduled for 6:00–10:30pm. Fairfax, Va. fairfaxva.gov

THE FLYING CIRCUS AIR SHOW Every Sunday through October. Rides begin at 11:00am and show starts at 2:30pm. Family fun, great airshow, and thrilling airplane rides. 5114 Ritchie Road, Bealeton, Va. flyingcircusairshow.com SUMMERFEST July 1, 5:00–11:30pm. Features live music, food, and activities, all leading up to a spectacular fireworks display and SummerGlo After Party. Bohrer Park, Gaithersburg, Md. 301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov VOLUNTEER FIREMEN’S CARNIVAL July 1, 7–8, 14–15, 21–22, 24–29. Games, raffles, and rides all leading up to the famous pony swim July 26. Chincoteague, Va. 757-336-6161, cvfc3.com/events BLUEGRASS, BREW, AND BBQ July 2, Aug. 6 and 27, doors open at 4:00pm. A family-friendly Americana Music Series featuring live musical performances of bluegrass, blues, Celtic, and country music, as well as a showcase of local craft breweries and delicious barbecue served by local restaurants. Furnace Town Living Heritage Village, Snow Hill, Md. 410-632-2032, eventbrite.com CAPITAL FRINGE FESTIVAL July 6–30. There will be free music in the courtyard and the Fringe Arts Bar will be serving drinks and food. Official Fringe Festival venues are all located within a five- to ten-minute walk from the Logan Fringe Arts Space. Northeast Washington, D.C. capitalfringe.org PAINT IT! July 7–9. Artists will set up their easels throughout Ellicott City’s historic district and attempt to capture the essence of the quaint old mill town and all its charms. Paint It! Ellicott City will be on display, as will an exhibit featuring artwork born of environmental catastrophes by Lisa Moren and Io Palmer. Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-ARTS, hocoarts.org BLACK DOG AMERICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL July 8, noon–5:00pm. Energetic live music, friends new and old, delicious wines and festival foods, and incomparable Blue Ridge Mountain vistas. Chateau Morrisette Festival Field, 3641 Black Ridge Road, Floyd, Va. 540-593-2865, thedogs.com POTOMAC JAZZ AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL July 8. Relax riverside on the museum lawn and enjoy live jazz artists, delicious seafood delicacies, and gorgeous views of St. Clement’s Island at this signature yearly event. 38370 Point Breeze Road, Coltons Point, Md. 301-769-2222, visitstmarysmd.com PASTURE PALOOZA MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL July 13–16. Come out for a weekend of live music, camping, eating, and good times. 339 Minniewood Lane, Berryville, Va. 540-336-9904, pasturepalooza.com NORFOLK WATERFRONT JAZZ FESTIVAL July 14–15, 5:00–11:00pm. Jazz enthusiasts can relax to the sounds of national legendary smooth jazz artists in the casual waterfront setting. Towne Point Park, Waterside Drive, Norfolk, Va. 757-441-2345, festevents.org DAY OF ARCHAEOLOGY FESTIVAL July 15, 10:00am–3:00pm. Music, family, fun, food trucks, and face-painting. Dumbarton House, 2715 Q St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-337-2288, dumbartonhouse.org ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SUMMER FEST July 15. Antique and classic car cruise-in, antique tractors, local bands providing live outdoor concerts, craft booths, basket raffle picnic food, kettle corn, and ice cream. 1155 Indian Springs Road, Indiana, Pa. 724-464-1640 WASHINGTON COUNTY AG EXPO July 15–22. A county fair featuring livestock shows, tractor pulls, good food, concerts, and great fun for the whole family. Washington County Agricultural Education Center, Boonsboro, Md. 301-582-9494, agexpoandfair.org KENT COUNTY FAIR July 20–22. Great food, 4-H and community exhibits, animals, tractors, games, and entertainment. The focus of the fair is agricultural education and providing educational opportunities for county youth. 21349 Tolchester Beach Road, Chestertown, Md. 410-778-1661, kentcountyfair.org DELAWARE STATE FAIR July 20–29. Experience dynamic entertainers, thrilling carnival rides, and great exhibits on agriculture in Delaware. The fair will have performances from country stars Rascal Flats, Darius Rucker, and Brantley Gilbert. 18500 S. Dupont Highway, Harrington, Del. 302-398-3269, delawarestatefair.com

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INDIANA COUNTY CHRISTMAS IN JULY July 21. Visit Santa and experience some holiday cheer. Idlewild and SoakZone, Route 30, Ligonier, Pa. 724-463-7505, idlewild.com KAROONDINHA MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL July 21–23. Some 80 artists will be featured in a festival unlike any other at America’s only all-water cave and wildlife park. Centre Hall, Pa. karoondinha.com CECIL COUNTY FAIR July 21–29. Old-fashioned country fair with rodeo, demolition derby, midway and tractor pulls, 4-H exhibits, and entertainment. 4640 Telegraph Road, Elkton, Md. 410-392-3440, cecilcountyfair.org SHENANDOAH VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL July 21–Sept. 3. The festival presents concerts under the stars that offer music from wide variety of genres, plus accommodation packages. Shrine Mont, Orkney Springs, Va. musicfest.org HARFORD COUNTY FARM FAIR July 24–29. Old-fashioned country fair with 4-H exhibits, livestock, judging and auctions, home crafts, tractor pulls, and live music. 608 N. Tollgate Road, Bel Air, Md. 410-569-2630, farmfair.org SOMERSET COUNTY FAIR July 24–30. Exhibits, animals and judging, food, crafts, contests, kids’ activities, and the best of the county’s agricultural community. 11828 Crisfield Lane, Princess Anne, Md. 410-422-2950, visitsomerset.com SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL June 29–July 4 and July 6–9. The festival includes daily and evening music and dance performances, crafts and cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and discussions of cultural issues. National Mall, between Fourth and Seventh streets NW, Washington, D.C. festival.si.edu

Restaurant Weeks

TASTE AND TOUR July 20. Participating restaurants will showcase specialty foods, introduce themselves to members of the community, and recognize current customers for their patronage. Downtown Indiana, Pa. 724-463-6110, downtownindiana.org HOWARD COUNTY RESTAURANT WEEK July 24–Aug. 7. Participating restaurants in Howard County, Md., offer discounted meals. See website for venues and details. visithowardcounty.com/howard-county-restaurant-weeks BALTIMORE RESTAURANT WEEK July 28–Aug. 6. Restaurants aren’t skimping on the food; instead they are showcasing their chefs and menus in hopes of luring you back as a forever customer. Participating restaurants in Baltimore, Md. baltimorerestaurantweek.com

NOW SHOWING

ANTIQUE AUTO SHOW July 8, 11:00am–2:00pm. Experience the thrill of the open road as the front parking lot is filled with antique vehicles of all shapes and sizes. The Fire Museum of Maryland, 1301 York Road, Lutherville, Md. 410-321-7500, firemuseummd.org TREASURES OF THE EARTH GEM SHOW July 14–16. More than 50 vendors from across the U.S. bring items relating to gems, minerals, and jewelry. A gemologist is available for on-site appraisals. Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach, Va. 804-642-2011, treasuresoftheearth.com

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES MONDAY MOVIES ON THE BEACH Mondays through Aug. 28. Bring your family and a beach chair for family movie night. 509 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del. 302-227-2233, beach-fun.com MOVIES ON THE BEACH July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 8:30pm. Movies will start at approximately 8:30pm on the beach at Dagsworthy Street in Dewey, Del. 302227-2233, beach-fun.com HANDS-ON HISTORY PLAYGROUND Thursdays–Saturdays, July 6–Aug. 5, 10:00am–3:00pm. Have fun while you learn about life in 18th-century Maryland. Be a farmer, a frontier settler, a milliner, and a town crier. Montpelier Mansion, 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. pgparks.com SAILS ABOARD THE DEE OF ST. MARY’S July 9 and 29, Aug. 13 and 26, Sept. 30. Enjoy a two-hour sail on the Patuxent River aboard one of the last skipjacks built on Chesapeake Bay. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons, Md. calvertmarinemuseum.com CATCH-A-PIG 5K RACE July 16, 8:00am. This family-friendly event will have you “squealing” with delight while you help raise money for a good cause. Register to run or walk. MA & PA Heritage Trail, Bel Air, Md. 443412-2069, signup.com/catchapig

RUN WITH THE DEER FLIES July 30. Challenging 25K and 15K trail runs with plenty of hills, single track trails, rocks, and creek crossings. Fun event with runners coming from neighboring states. Benefits the Seph Mack Boy Scout Camp. 1966 S. Harmony Road, Penn Run, Pa. indianaroadrunners.com CANAL BOAT EXCURSIONS Through October. Come aboard the Charles F. Mercer, a reproduction packet boat, to experience what it was once like to travel up and down the historic C&O Canal. Hear tales of what life was like for the families who lived and worked on the canal. Potomac, Md. 301-767-3709, nps.gov/choh

MUSIC

Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral THE SHADES OF BLUE ORCHESTRA July 1, 7:00pm. Two vocalists will join the 18-piece Shades of Blue Orchestra as they perform from the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand. The St. Michaels fireworks are scheduled to launch after dusk. St. Michaels, Md. 410-745-2916, cbmm.org AZAR LAWRENCE QUINTET July 2, 8:00–11:30pm. Blues Alley Jazz, 1073 Rear Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-337-4141, bluesalleylive.com HARRY POTTER MUSIC July 7, 8:30pm. The National Symphony Orchestra performs music from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, Va. 703-255-1900, wolftrap.org

Popular/Other GROOVIN’ IN THE GARDEN CONCERTS Sundays through Aug. 6, 6:00–8:00pm. Enjoy family-friendly outdoor concerts at Ladew Topiary Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Md. ladewgardens.com THURSDAY EVENING CONCERTS IN OLDE TOWNE July 6, 13, 20, 27, 6:00pm. Wind down the workday with great free music in a casual outdoor setting. City Hall Concert Pavilion, Gaithersburg, Md. 301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov THOMAS RHETT July 14, 7:30pm. Enjoy a live performance at the Calvert Marine Museum’s PNC Waterside Pavilion. Solomons, Md. 410-3262042, calvertmarinemuseum.com

Theater JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Through July 2. The icon, his traitor, and the most famous story ever told, reinvented in the sleek, modern style you can only find at Signature Theatre. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, Va. sigtheatre.org THE TEMPEST A tale of shipwreck, magic, and redemption by William Shakespeare. Directed by Lizzi Albert. PFI Historic Park, 3691 Sarahs Lane, Ellicott City, Md. 410-244-8570, chesapeakeshakespeare.com DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID July 1, 2:00pm. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, this beautiful Broadway hit is based on the favorite Disney film. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, Va. 703255-1900, wolftrap.org HAMLET July 19–23, 25–29. This contemporary, opulent production will be “revved up,” emphasizing the fusion of Shakespeare’s language and REV’s dynamic physicality, reflecting the intense emotional life of the play. The 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., Cape May, N.J. 800-275- 4278, capemaymac.org JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT July 21–23, 27–29. The story centers around an electric retelling of the story of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. Eleven brothers and one coat of many colors form a magical musical filled with unforgettable songs and high-energy dance numbers. Fairfax Theater Company performs at Sidney Lanier Middle School, 3801 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, Va. fairfaxva.gov

Dance SUNDAY BALLROOM DANCE One Sunday each month, 4:00–6:00pm. Dance instructors teach specific dances, followed by an open dance session where participants can practice what they’ve learned or refine steps. Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas, Va. center-for-the-arts.org ADULT DROP-IN DANCE CLASSES The Dance Institute of Washington, 3400 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-371-9656, danceinstitute.org DANCE PROGRAMS Weekends, 7:30–11:30pm. Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md. fridaynightdance.org

Exhibits Featured Exhibitions SHAKESPEARE FIRST FOLIO 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. 202544-7077, folger.edu THE ART OF LOUISE B. WHEATLEY 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 ARTSCAPE PRIZE FINALISTS’ EXHIBITION Through Aug. 13. Prize finalists’ exhibition presented by the Baltimore Office of Promotion and The Arts in partnership with the Walters Art Museum. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org TRAINING THE EYE Through Aug. 13. This intimate exhibition brings together 17 richly detailed and evocative 19th- century portraits, still-life studies, and figure drawings, many of which are on view at the Walters for the very first time. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org 18THCENTURY FRENCH PAINTING Through Aug. 20. This exhibition brings together 68 paintings that represent some of the best and most unusual examples of French art of that era held by American museums and tells their stories on a national stage. National Gallery of Art, National Mall between Third and Seventh streets at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 202-737-4215, nga.gov THE PERFECTION OF STYLE Through Aug. 27. The exhibition offers an intimate and comprehensive look at the lifetime achievement of Yves Saint Laurent, one of history’s most radical and influential fashion designers. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum NO SPECTATORS: THE ART OF BURNING MAN Through Sept. 16. The first major exhibition to present the large-scale, participatory work that is the hallmark of this annual gathering, exploring Burning Man’s philosophies of radical self-expression, community participation, rejection of commodification, and reverence for the handmade. The Smithsonian American Art Museum, Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Avenue at 17th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 202-633-1000, americanart.si.edu WINGS OF FANCY LIVE BUTTERFLY AND CATERPILLAR EXHIBIT Through Sept. 17, open daily 10:00am–4:00pm. Visitors can experience hundreds of live butterflies from all over the world. Learn about their amazing metamorphosis, the role they play in establishing healthy ecosystems, and how to ensure they thrive in residential gardens. Brookside Garden Conservatory, 1500 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, Md. old.montgomeryparks.org ANDREW WYETH RETROSPECTIVE Through Sept. 17. A once-ina-lifetime exhibition of 100 iconic works by this master American painter. Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, Pa. brandywine.org SHANGHAI PASSAGES 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

SUNRISE, SUNSET Through Oct. 1. The mural will be painted directly onto the museum wall over the course of two weeks, responding to the museum’s unique circular architecture and spanning nearly 400 feet along its inner-ring gallery. The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue and Seventh Street SW, Washington, D.C. 202-633-1000, hirshhorn.si.edu WOODBLOCK PRINTS BY KAWASE HASUI 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 SCULPTURE IN THE GARDEN Through Oct. 31. Mary Ann Mears’ bold, abstract sculptures, made of aluminum or steel, are often inspired by nature. Ladew Topiary Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Md. 410-5579570, ladewgardens.com SHARKABEL 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 SPECTACULAR GEMS AND JEWELRY Through Jan. 1. The special exhibition will offer an enthralling glimpse into the Merriweather Post collection, one of the most remarkable collections of jewelry ever amassed. Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. hillwoodmuseum.org TREASURES ON TRIAL Through 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 www.recreationnews.com 410-638-6901 | fax: 410-638-6902 Mailing Address: 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore MD 21221

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PAINTING SHAKESPEARE Through Feb. 17. From humble oil sketches to international masterpieces, this exhibition presents kids and adults alike, with a sometimes surprising and always eye-catching view of the man and his works. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu KARA WALKER AND HANK WILLIS THOMAS Through March 18. Walker’s Salvation, one of the most significant works in the BMA’s contemporary collection, and Thomas’s I Can’t Run, a recent promised gift to the museum, start a critical conversation in the Black Box Gallery on slavery’s legacy. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org ROBERT DE GAST’S CHESAPEAKE Through April 18. Some 80 of de Gast’s photographs of life on the Chesapeake Bay comprise the first exhibition showcasing the black-and-white work of this eminent bay photographer. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels, Md. cbmm.org A MATHEMATICALLY TRANSFORMED WORLD July 5–30. See landscapes by Allen Hirsh that somehow retain their classical balance, nudes reduced to flesh at its most elemental, flowers stretched like taffy or turned geometrical — and, of course, the president. Foundry Gallery, 2118 Eighth St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-232-0203, foundrygallery.org

History

AMELIA EARHARTDREAMS TAKE FLIGHT July 23, 1:00–3:30pm. Award-winning actress Mary Ann Jung performs as courageous aviatrix Amelia Earhart in a rousing portrayal of this dynamic women’s rights heroine. Hear about her astonishing life and career and meet the personalities who were part of her journey, all while enjoying tea at the garden. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-941-7987, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring BATTLE OF SMITHFIELD WALKING TOUR Aug. 5 and Oct. 7. Revisit the sites of the two-day skirmish when cannons were fired down Main Street. historicisleofwight.com OLD MARYLAND FARM ACTIVITIES Old Maryland Farm, 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-218-6770 or 301-699-2544, pgparks.com MONTPELIER MANSION TOURS Sundays, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Montpelier Mansion, Route 197 and Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-953-1376

Lectures/Workshops/Classes SUMMER PLANTS THAT SIZZLE, NOT FIZZLE July 8, 10:00–11:30am. Get design and maintenance ideas for eco-friendly gardening in sun and shade using great summer foliage and flowering plants. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-642-5173, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring

THE REVOLUTIONARY VETERANS WHO BUILT AMERICA Through Nov. 27. The special exhibition will chronicle the postwar lives of veterans of the Siege of Yorktown, including Henry Knox, Alexander Hamilton, James Lafayette, the Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington, and Charles Cornwallis, as well as lesser-known veterans. American Revolution Museum, Yorktown, Va. 757-253-4838, historyisfun.org

FOSSIL FIELD EXPERIENCE PROGRAMS July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 16, Oct. 21. The program begins at the Cove Point Lighthouse at 9:00am. Participants learn how to find and identify fossils with the assistance of a trained expert. Enjoy time on the beach, then head to Calvert Marine Museum to discuss fossil finds and explore the Paleontology Hall. Solomons, Md. calvertmarinemuseum.com/215/fossil-field-experience

CIVIL WAR BATTLE REENACTMENTS July 1–3. All-day family events held on actual anniversary dates. 965 Pumping Station Road, Gettysburg, Pa. gettysburgreenactment.com

ADULT ART COURSES Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org

FAMILY DAY July 8, noon–4:00pm. What makes a person a hero? Join us for special family-friendly activities at each of our sites to explore Civil War-era heroes, both famous and lesser-known. Historic Tredegar and the White House and Museum of the Confederacy, Richmond, Va. 804-649-1861 extension 122 CHAUTAUQUA SUMMER SERIES July 10–12, 7:00–9:00pm. This year’s Maryland Humanities’ series features Voices of the Great War, with all living history performances taking place along Fogg’s Cove and the Miles River. All performances are free and open to the public. St. Michaels, Md. 410-745-2916, mdhumanities.org

PRO SPORTS BALTIMORE ORIOLES AT HOME Saturday, July 1, vs. Rays, 4:05pm Sunday, July 2, vs. Rays, 1:35pm Friday, July 14, vs. Cubs, 7:05pm Saturday, July 15, vs. Cubs, 7:05pm Sunday, July 16, vs. Cardinals, 1:35pm Monday, July 17, vs. Indians, 7:05pm Tuesday, July 18, vs. Indians, 7:05pm Wednesday, July 19, vs. Indians, 7:05pm Thursday, July 20, vs. Indians, 7:05pm

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

WASHINGTON NATIONALS AT HOME Monday, July 3, vs. Mets, 6:05pm Tuesday, July 4, vs. Mets, 11:05am Wednesday, July 5, vs. Mets, 7:05pm Thursday, July 6, vs. Braves, 7:05pm Friday, July 7, vs. Braves, 7:05pm Saturday, July 8, vs. Braves, 4:05pm Sunday, July 9, vs. Braves, 1:35pm Tuesday, July 25, vs. Brewers, 7:05pm Wednesday, July 26, vs. Brewers, 7:05pm Thursday, July 27, vs. Brewers, 12:05pm Friday, July 28, vs. Rockies, 7:05pm Saturday, July 29, vs. Rockies, 7:05pm Sunday, July 30, vs. Rockies, 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, July 22, vs. Houston, 7:00pm 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.

GALLERY TALKS Thursdays, 1:00pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00pm. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-5731700, artbma.org SECOND SUNDAY SPOTLIGHT TALKS Second Sunday of every month, 2:00pm. Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org STAINED-GLASS CLASS Mat About You Gallery, 3774 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-8860, mataboutyou.com

WALKING TOUR OF OLD TOWN FAIRFAX July 1. Tours lasting approximately 90 minutes will begin at 10:00am in front of the Historic Fairfax County Courthouse, corner of Chain Bridge Road and Main Street, and include a short tour of the Ratcliffe-Allison House, 10386 Main St. Fairfax, Va. 703-385-8414 GROUNDS AND ARCHITECTURE WALKING TOUR July 8, Aug. 12, Sept. 9. This tour analyzes physical changes to Mount Clare’s structure and grounds. Stay for a soap and skincare product demonstration by Herbal Poetry. Baltimore, Md. mountclare.org SKIPJACK SIGSBEE TOURS July 9, 1:00–3:00pm. A historic oystering skipjack reconstructed for students, Sigsbee is operated by the Living Classrooms Foundation. The foundation offers programs that engage students with hands-on activities, such as raising sail, testing the water with scientific equipment, trawling for marine life, and observing the factories, shipping, natural resources, and ecosystems of the Chesapeake Bay. St. Michaels, Md. cbmm.org REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE COTTAGE TOUR July 11–12, 10:00am–3:00pm. Marilyn Feldman has created a pastel of each of the seven homes on this year’s tour. Rehoboth Beach, Del. 302-227-8408, rehobothartleague.org. CAPE MAY, N.J. Historic district, moonlight trolley, and Cape May sampler tours. Cape May, N.J. 800-275-4278, capemaymac.org MARITIME HISTORY WALKING TOURS Second and fourth Saturdays, 10:00am. Fell’s Point Visitor Center, Baltimore, Md. 410-675-6750, preservationsociety.com

O THER UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS Through July 3. The unique brand of family-friendly entertainment features a multicultural, multinational blend of music, theater, and circus arts under the big top. FedEx Field, Landover, Md. universoulcircus.com LIGHTHOUSE ADVENTURE CRUISES July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 23. On the journey, cruisers will hear from the museum’s lighthouse expert the history of the lighthouses as well as the fascinating stories that make each unique. Marine Museum, Solomons, Md. 410-326-2042, extension 41, calvertmarinemuseum.com

TRADITIONAL ART CLASSES Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org

To submit an event for the Recreation News Calendar:

TOURS

Every announcement must have the name of the event, name of the organization, date, time, and location of the event, a contact phone number, and a website if possible. Send announcements to: Calendar, Recreation News, 19 Clay Lodge Lane #201, Catonsville, Md. 21228, or email to editor@recreationnews.com.

SILVER SPRING/TAKOMA PARK SEASONAL WALK Through Oct. 14, 7:00am–7:00pm during daylight hours. Safeway, Downtown Silver Spring, 909 Thayer Ave., Silver Spring, Md. 301-946-5496, sugarloafers.org

Agritourism continued from page 17 Claude Moore Colonial Farm 6310 Georgetown Pike, McLean, Va. 703-442-7557, new.1771.org Stroll through the only privately funded, privately run site in the National Park System, a living history museum where you can see how people lived in the 17th century. Costumed interpreters are in character and will demonstrate how farm work was done 300 years ago. There are cattle, chickens, geese, and hogs on the property. Workshops are offered year-round in a variety of topics and guests can pitch in with the work of the farm, helping harvest tobacco, wheat, or rye when the plants are ready. Cows-N-Corn 5225 Catlett Road, Midland, Va. 540-439-4806, cows-n-corn.com This Fauquier County farm can teach you all about cows, thanks to its 100-plus herd of Holsteins. Your little ones can enjoy a ride on the cow train, and the entire family can take a hayride. The

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“Moo Bounce” and puppet shows offer lots of fun, and you can even make and taste your own butter. Incredible corn mazes and more fun are found here in the fall. Frying Pan Farm Park 2709 W. Ox Road, Herndon, Va. 703-437-9101, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fryingpanpark You’ll find antique tractors, a blacksmith’s forge, a smokehouse, a dairy, and a kitchen garden at the Kidwell Farm, which interprets farm life from the 1920s through the 1950s. In addition to wagon rides, a carousel, and farmyard animals, there’s a country store with local produce and homemade baked goods. Posey Thisisit Llama Farm 754 Harrisville Road, Toms Brook, Va. 540-436-3517, poseythisisitllamas.com This 27-acre farm in the northern Shenandoah Valley invites visits with the friendly llamas and demonstrates wool dyeing at select times during July and August. Wool-producing sheep also are on the farm, along with their wool, yarn, and wool products. continued on page 22

maryland I barbara miller beem

Check out a cultural trail and ‘Augustoberfest’ in Hagerstown

“

On one side of Hagerstown, Md., there’s City Park, replete with a jewel-in-the-crown art museum and a sampling of historic sites and recreational attractions. On the other side is the Maryland city’s designated “Arts and Entertainment District.” Ne’er the twain shall meet? Actually, now they do. With the recent opening of the Hagerstown Cultural Trail, the city’s unique offerings are within a leisurely half-hour stroll of each other (a bit longer for those who linger, a bit shorter for joggers). Follow the red brick road. In a nod to Hagerstown’s heritage, when it was known as the “Hub City,” the trail was built on dormant railroad beds, ones that, in days gone by, contributed to the city’s early industrial growth. The newly laid herringbone-patterned walkway is both well lit and well marked, with red, yellow, and green painted arrows pointing the way. In addition to bringing the city’s high points together, expectations are that the trail might one day be home to a variety of outdoor festivals. Getting there is half the fun. Benches and picnic tables, as well as a space inspired by the likes of Dr. Seuss, make the trail a destination in itself. Along the way, there are a number of art installations, including Richard Deutsch’s interactive Pod (created in Michelangelo’s former studio in Italy), as well as a largescale abstract by Ijamsville, Md.,

City Park is often called the country’s second-most beautiful place of its kind, second only to New York City’s Central Park.” sculptor Adam Curtis. Community art and Faces of Hagerstown (56 oversized black-and-white photographs mounted on walls) add local color. The centerpiece of the trail, however, is the Mural of Unusual Size, by Atlanta-based contemporary artist Alex Brewer, known professionally as “HENSE.” Explaining that his inspiration is taken from “color, lines, shapes, forms, and architecture,” the former graffiti artist has taken the façades of two warehouse buildings and turned them into his canvas. Bright and bold, the work is a whimsical expression of joy. At the northeastern end of the trail, visitors will find themselves approximately one city block away from performance spaces (including the Historic Maryland Theatre) and art galleries, as well as shops and restaurants. The opposite end is anchored by City Park, often called the country’s second-most beautiful place of its kind (second only to New York City’s Central Park). The scenic lake is home to Canada geese,

ducks, and swans, and it provides a majestic setting for the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, where admission is always free. Belying its size, the museum’s galleries exhibit a wide-reaching collection that includes works by Auguste Rodin, Frederic Church, Roy Lichtenstein, and Norman Rockwell. The museum also boasts a carved bust of Abraham Lincoln by Gutzon Borglum, most noted for his work on Mount Rushmore.

But, the most iconic work of all is the one enclosed in the east portico of the 1930s structure (and modeled from Bette Davis’ figure): Anna Hyatt Huntington’s life-size bronze rendering of Diana of the Chase. Appropriately, it serves as the logo design for the Hagerstown Cultural Trail, encouraging visitors to enjoy the hunt.

Learn more Hagerstown Tourism: visithagerstown.com

AUGUSTOBERFEST MEANS GERMAN-STYLE FUN

The calendar says it’s still summertime, and the signs on the highway point to “Hagerstown,” but the lederhosen, German bands, sauerkraut, and beer can only mean one thing: It’s time for Augustoberfest. Marking its 22nd anniversary, the two-day (Aug. 26–27) festival celebrates Hagerstown’s cultural roots, at the same time benefiting an exchange student program with its sister city, Wesel, Germany. German dancing (participation encouraged, but not required) and authentic German food are among the highlights, and an assortment of vendors will be on hand. Thanks to a large tent on the municipal parking lot on Potomac Street, the festival is held rain or shine. Prost! (augustoberfest.org)

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Call or visit us online to get a free Visitor’s Guide!

888-257-2600 • visithagerstown.com

Mountain Coaster

Segway Tours

Canopy Tours

Whitewater Rafting

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Tiles of beauty: Traveling through Carroll County’s outdoor exhibit Exciting new displays are dotting the sides of barns throughout Carroll County, Md. The artistic tiles are large — they measure 8 feet by 8 feet — and are made from coated and painted aluminum. They represent squares found on quilts, and are part of the Carroll County Barn Quilt Trail. The 27 tiles are located on individual barns. Each one is worth a stop on the side of the road to be admired and photographed as monuments to a legacy of American history. While the use of quilts for clothing and coverlets predates America’s earliest Colonists, it was not until these people came to the New World that the practice of sewing scraps of material onto padded fabric evolved into the beautiful art form which is very much alive today. Indeed, a practice born out of necessity and the early settlers’ “waste not, want not” ethic illustrates not just the work of skilled hands, but also the history of entire families, places, and events. Today, this inspirational and symbolic phenomenon is carried on by both women and men. The Carroll County Barn Quilt Trail is presented in conjunction with the Office of Tourism, the Carroll County Arts Council, Everybody’s Quilt Guild, and the Carroll County Department of Recreation and Parks. “We’re currently working on getting four more tiles up for a total of 31,” said Bonnie Staub, who pro-

motes the county. “They are meant to stay up indefinitely.”

What do you see? So, what exactly is found on the tiles? The colorful designs on each illustrate a sample of material that would be found on either an applique-style or a patchwork quilt. Many of the tiles feature a recurring motif that was on the finished spread. These motifs were given names that include “Birds in Flight,” “Sunflower on Star,” “Maple Leaf,” “Corn and Beans,” and “Dresden Plate.” How do the tiles get to participating barns? “People phone the office and we send someone out to look at the location,” Staub explained. “We want to be sure that the barn looks decent and can be seen well from the road.” And, while they are directly on the barn owner’s property, there should be a place for drivers to pull over to view them. “The styles are painted by roller and are based on traditional quilting patterns,” said Susan Williamson, of the arts council. “Patterns chosen were more or less indigenous to Carroll County. Now, the panels are being scanned and people are either designing their own quilts or going back to a quilt pattern their grandmother made.” Staub recommends enjoying a full day of the quilt trail. To that end, the tourism office has prepared a free,

Take a Day? Take a Weekend?

You need to escape, but not too far away! Check out this month’s events in Carroll County! UNIONTOWN GARDEN TOUR July 2 | 1 pm-6 pm Begins at Academy Building Uniontown

OLD-FASHIONED 4TH OF JULY & FIREWORKS July 4 | 3 pm-10 pm Carroll County Farm Museum Westminster

COMMON GROUND ROOTS MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL July 8 | 10 am-9 pm July 9 | 10 am-7 pm Carroll County Farm Museum Westminster

CARROLL COUNTY 4-H/FFA FAIR July 29-August 4 11 am-11 pm Carroll County Ag Center Westminster

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

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Carroll Co. Tourism

Two of the 27 aluminum tiles along Carroll County’s Barn Quilt Trail show traditional quilt patterns that are part of local heritage. comprehensive brochure complete with an introduction, a listing of each participating barn, its address, and the title of each tile. A map also is included to assist visitors in planning a route that may include a lunch stop at a local restaurant, or even a picnic. Insider tip: The tourism office can provide a step-on guide for groups wishing to tour the trail by bus. Or,

take the tour on your own time and make a “hunt for the tiles” game of it.

Agritourism

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster, Pa. 717-569-0401, landisvalleymuseum.org This living history village and farm transports you through time to a bygone era in Pennsylvania Dutch history. Stroll the streets of the village and hear costumed interpreters explain crafts and handiwork from the 19th century. Farm equipment displays show how the Industrial Revolution helped farmers increase production. Many local inventions and developments and American farm technology are on display

continued from page 20

PENNSYLVANIA The Amish Village 199 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, Pa. 717-687-8511, amishvillage.com Experience Amish life with tours of a farmhouse, a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a smokehouse market, and farm animals. A large picnic area invites you to bring a lunch and take break from the frenzy of modern life. You can also take a 90-minute narrated Backroads Tour that includes a stop at an Amish home or business. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, Pa. 866-546-1799, cherrycrestfarm.com This country fair-themed park and education center features farm animals, a beehive observation area, corn maze, wagon rides, pedal carts, and a baby chick hatchery. There are a host of farm-related attractions and activities, including slides, an obstacle course, a jumping pillow, and much more. The Strasburg Railroad even makes a stop here, and there’s a wealth of food options on site.

For more information Carroll Co. Tourism: carrollcountytourism.org/ barn-quilt-trail Carroll Co. Arts Council: carrollcountyartscouncil.org

WEST VIRGINIA Farm Discovery Center 1003 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, W.Va. 304-259-5611, mountaintrailrides.com/ farmdiscovery.html Located inside Blackwater Falls State Park, the center introduces visitors to farm activities, such as milking a mechanical cow, and features exhibits of agricultural tools. The center seeks to educate new generations about where food comes from and the agricultural heritage of the region. Horseback riding, a petting zoo, and adventure cave are nearby.

maryland I matthew graham

Terrapin Adventures: Take your pick of land, air, or water Terrapin Adventures in Savage Mill, Md., is a one-stop shop for outdoor fun. Its offerings include an onsite aerial obstacle course, trips exploring the subterranean world, and paddling in marshes where eagles soar.

By land Enjoy mountain biking on smooth, shaded trails adjacent the Little Patuxent River. The mostly flat terrain follows the creek and climbs over a few gentle, rolling hills before ending at scenic Lake Elkhorn. The 37-acre manmade lake and reservoir supports a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, turtles, geese, and foxes. After circumnavigating the lake, return on the pathway for a 12-mile ride. The biking excursion concludes with a picnic of bread, cheese, and a choice of wine or beer. Bike rentals also are available. For a little more excitement, try an excursion to Whiting’s Neck Cave near Shepherdstown, W.Va. The wild caving tour will have you crawling on your belly, squeezing through passages, and marveling at amazing formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Lights, helmets, and all equipment are provided. But be sure to bring a change of clothes — you will be covered in mud by the end of the day.

By water Explore the backwaters of the secluded Tan-

TRIPS & TRAVEL

yard Cove via kayak. The cove is hidden away at a waterfront park in a housing development near Glen Burnie, Md. No experience is necessary, and the guided tour begins with a basic kayaking safety briefing and instructions on how to paddle. Once everyone is suited up in a personal floatation device, it’s time to push off into the serene flat waters. Here, great blue herons wade at the water’s edge and take flight overhead. Bald eagles are often spotted, too. The cove narrows as it approaches a marsh. Kayaks must proceed in single file to navigate into the tall grass. Newly learned paddling strokes are put to the test as kayakers weave back out of the marsh. The tour bursts out into the more open waters of Curtis Creek to spot osprey before returning back to the boat launch. If paddling seems like a bit too much work, Terrapin Adventures also rents tubes for an easy and fun float down the Patapsco River. It’s an excellent way to spend one of those too-hot days of summer.

By air The aerial ropes course may be what the Howard County, Md., adventure outfitter is best known for. At heights of up to 40 feet, participants cross tight ropes, logs, Indiana Jones-style swinging bridges, and other challenges. There are 19 dif-

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 — Ladies Day Out, August 11, QVC Studio Tour, Shopping and Lunch. Contact us for details. Cuba — Nov. 9-17, Ship sails to three ports on the largest island in the Caribbean. This trip is TE! enjoy the music DAculture, W the R NElearn a people to peopleSO exchange to meet the friendly residents, LL FO T! CA LD OU 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.

GREAT ESCAPES TRAVEL & TOURS

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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

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ferent traverses from one elevated platform to another. Climbers are protected via a system of carabiners and safety lines that affix to rock climbing-style harnesses. It’s an absolute blast — like walking on air — as participants stand suspended on a thin steel cables high up in the sky. Exiting the course demands a leap of faith, jumping from a platform edge and trying to grab a rope that dangles, seemingly, just out of reach. Missing it doesn’t matter, though — the self-belay system attached to the harness gently lowers the climber to the ground. There is also a short zip line for more aerial fun. And, the super-fun Giant Swing holds up to three riders. Anticipation builds as the swing is cranked high up enough that riders feel like they’ll fall forward out of its relative safety. Then, in a split second, the swing is released and those on board experience up to 2 G’s of acceleration. Terrapin Adventures also offers guided backpacking trips, geocaching, adventure camps, team building, and parties, such as the “Zip and Sip” that combines the ropes course and wine. Ropes first, and then wine — of course!

For more information Terrapin Adventures: terrapinadventures.com

TRIPS & TRAVEL Cruise to the Western Mediterranean —September 13-20, 2018 aboard RCCL’S newest ship SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS departing from Rome Ports of call include Naples, Florence/Pisa, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Marseilles FOR FURTHER INFO CONTACT VIP TRAVEL AGENCY ASK FOR DONNA T (301) 441-3900 OFFICE OR (202) 258-3758 CELL

LAND FOR SALE Petersburg, WV 81.61 acres wooded $162,900, with 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.

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 recreationnews.com I july 2017 I recreation news 23

maryland I mary k. tilghman

Enjoy a unique sip and stay at a Kent County farm winery Like animals, especially cows, chickens, miniature ponies, cats, and dogs? Love wines, including sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and barbera? Escape to Crow Farm and Winery, a Kent County, Md., bed-and-breakfast that sits in the middle of nowhere, and in the middle of heaven on earth. Its 365 acres, including 12 planted with grapes, offers animals and wine, all in a bucolic setting. During a recent stay, I drank the vineyard’s award-winning wines. I patted Myrtle and Babe, the family dogs, and was charmed by the six resident miniature ponies. If I didn’t dare get close to the Black Angus cattle grazing within view of the Pasture View Room, I certainly fell in love with the 15 chickens scrabbling near my feet. The tasting room is open every day from noon to 5:00pm. Crow Farm offers something for almost every taste: whites, including chardonnay (both oaked and unoaked), rose, and reds. All of the wines are made on-site and most of the grapes are grown here, too, according to Judy Crow, who with her husband, Roy, owns and operates the Kennedyville farm. Judy Crow also is president of the Maryland Wineries Association. The Crows’ 2016 Barbera Rose won best in class in the Maryland Governor’s Cup for 2016 — one of a long list of awards for the young winery.

Sue Steinbrook

Crow Farm Winery hosts group events, but you can enjoy the farm or a tasting as an individual guest. “I like to say we have a portfolio for everybody’s taste,” Crow said. They strive to make wines that are easily drinkable and food-friendly. “We’re all about food,” she added. Nine years ago, the farm was planted in corn and soybeans, according to Crow. She imagined turning the home that supported three generations of farmers into a cozy bed-and-breakfast and planting acres of grapes to make serious wine.

Visit where the locals play...

The 1847 farmhouse was renovated in 2008 to add modern comfort to its historic bones. “Where we could keep the old, we kept the old,” Crow said. The result is three comfortable guest rooms, each with its own bath and furnished with family pieces. A cottage on the property has accommodations for four. Work on the vineyard began in 2010. Vines were planted under the watchful eye of Brandon Hoy, the vineyard manager and the Crows’

son. A state-of-the-art winery followed, and in 2014 the first winemaker was hired. A new winemaker, Michael Zollo, arrived from California at the end of May. In 2012, the tasting room opened in the farm’s former milk house. In addition to an $8 tasting, weekend visitors may order soup and sandwiches and local cheese and sausage plates. After a night in the peaceful rooms of the Crow Farm house, visitors feast on a family-style breakfast at 8:30am with brown, green, and blue eggs from the farm’s hens, as well as sausage and bacon from area farms. Visitors have access to a pool, the sunroom overlooking the pasture, and the cozy parlor. Early risers can look in as the farm’s animals get their breakfast. Although visitors may feel far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Crow Farm is only 20 minutes from Rock Hall, a half hour from Chestertown, and a 10-minute drive from the Sassafras River. Planning a visit to Dixon’s Auctions held most Wednesdays? It’s only 8 miles from the farm. Pets and children younger than 10 cannot be accommodated due to the electric fences that protect the Angus cows.

For more information Crow Farm and Winery: crowvineyardandwinery.com

Escape to

County ofKent

Maryland’s Upper Eastern Shore on the Chesapeake Bay Chestertown, Rock Hall, Betterton, Galena, Millington

www.kentcounty.com

Winery, Shopping, Fishing, Sailing, Kayaking, Art galleries, Museums, Performing Arts Theaters, Farmers’ & Artisans’ Markets, Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, Quaint Beaches, Local Seafood and more.

www.kentcounty.com • tourism@kentcounty.com • 410-778-0416

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EASTON • OXFORD • ST. MICHAELS • TILGHMAN ISLAND

Short drive, long memories. 410-770-8000 | TourTalbot.org

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More than you expect

EXPLORE MORE WITH BLAIR COUNTY’S HERITAGE PASSPORT

SEEK VARIETY IN THE SUSQUEHANNA RIVER VALLEY

CHECK OUT THE CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

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Escape in the Susquehanna River Valley Discover the timeless elegance of the Susquehanna River Valley, where there’s something new and incredible to discover at every turn. The region is stunning on a grand scale, from the towering vistas and colorful overlooks of the mountains to the mighty waters of the Susquehanna River itself. View nature’s wonders on an intimate, leisurely kayak trip down the Susquehanna River to the only spot where the North and West branches of the river meet. In addition to its dramatic beauty, the Susquehanna River Valley offers adventure for the entire family. Venture out for a day of excitement to Knoebels, America’s largest free-admission amusement park, with rides for the whole family. Or,

Take a ride on real trolleys weekends — Memorial Day through October! July 15 - PCC & LRV Light Rail Vehicle Day July 29 - “Daniel Tiger” at Homecoming Day Sept. 9 - Troops & Trolleys Sept. 10 - Grandparents’ Day Sept. 16 - Night Photos Sept. 23 - Ragtime Music Festival Oct. 7 & 8 - Fall Spectacular Oct. 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 “Terror Trolley”

Oct. 14 & 15 - Pumpkin Patch Trolley Oct. 21-22, 28-29 Halloween Costume Days Nov. 24-25, Dec 1-2, 8-9 Polar Bear Express Dec. 2 - Santa’s Trolley

RockhillTrolley.org Rockhill Furnace, PA

get up close to tigers, lions, and other exotic wildlife at one of the region’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. Head underground at one of three commercial show caves. Walk through Lincoln Caverns or Woodward Cave, or take a boat ride through Penn’s Cave. At the latter, you can also visit the wildlife park. Get a fresh look at the Susquehanna River Valley with a scenic hike in one of the seven state parks that offer a multitude of trails for hikers of all levels. R.B. Winter State Park, with its Halfway Lake, Shikellamy State Park and its scenic overlook of the river, Milton State Park, and Susquehanna State Park, home of the Hiawatha paddleboat, are all spots to enjoy the outdoors. Insider tip: The Hiawatha offers river excursions, May through October. (ridehiawatha.com) Release your inner fashionista in the quaint downtowns that abound with shopping opportunities. Whether searching for high-end brands or one of a kind antiques, you’ll find it here. Want to sample fresh local produce? Try one

jOutdoor Escapei

Woodloch.

Did you book your summer vacation yet?

Visit our website for packages and coupons or request a travel guide.

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Join TripAdvisor.com’s Best Family Resort in America this July! All-Inclusive rates starting at $219 per adult. Call for details.

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of the area farmers markets. Looking for handmade ceramics? Check out one of the many artisan shops throughout the region. Simply looking for great bargains on antiques? Visit the regional antique stores. Looking to indulge in the latest designer names? Then head to the high-end boutiques in one of the downtowns. Dining in the Susquehanna River Valley immerses you in the authentic local culture, with more than 60 restaurants providing a variety of options from elegant dining to family-style, to those serving locally sourced ingredients prepared with precision and care. Try the regional flavors, surprising ingredients, and classic dishes with a twist that truly make dining a unique affair. A visit to one or more of the half-dozen Susquehanna River Valley wineries is a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon. Visitors are sure to discover wineries that match their vacation style, from beautiful wineries housed in converted barns, to vineyards with spectacular views of the Susquehanna River, to elegant wineries located at the end of country roads. For a quintessential lodging experience, choose from spacious accommodations in rustic cabins, located off the beaten path, that offer spectacular views in the mountains, or downtown bedand-breakfasts with ambiance and beauty. If you prefer, melt away stress poolside or at the fitness center of national hotel brands. You’ll leave the Susquehanna River Valley with memories to last a lifetime and a yearning to return soon.

800.Woodloch

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For more information Susquehanna River Valley Tourism: visitcentralpa.org

On our cover Penn’s Cave is the only cave in the region that you tour on a boat. (Penn’s Cave)

Мы может быть не ваш первый выбор но мы то место назначения которое вы будете помнить VisitCentralPA.org/WhatsItMean recreationnews.com I july 2017 I recreation news PA-3

pennsylvania I staff

Pa. arts festival guarantees 5 days of fun

Central Pa. Festival of the Arts

Live music is just one highlight of the festival, which includes other performing and visual arts, a book festival, and plenty of children’s activities.

What happens in State College, Pa., when Penn State students go home for the summer? Each summer, since 1967, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts helps fill the gap. The festival now draws 125,000 people over a five-day run, this year July 13–16. Over time, the festival has grown to encompass a whole gamut of performing and visual arts. You can shop at the nationally recognized sidewalk sale, an event that draws about 300 artists and artisans from across America to exhibit and offer their work for sale. You can find paintings, jewelry,

baskets, ceramics, fiber works, photography, and wearable art to suit almost any pocketbook. Performances include music of every genre, dance, theater, and readings. Spectators can enjoy the giant sand sculpture and the Italian Street Painting Festival. There also is a book festival and lots of children’s activities as well. Almost any art form you can imagine can be found at some point during the festival. For a complete schedule of events, and to buy a button that provides general admission to select performances, visit arts-festival.com.

Lake Street Dive

Graham Nash

Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Tuesday, July 11, 2017 // 7:30p.m.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017 // 7:30p.m.

Tuesday, September 26, 2017 // 7:30p.m.

The Roots of American Folk Music

Lonesome Traveler Friday, November 10, 2017 // 7:30 p.m.

A Christmas Carol Vienna Boys Choir Friday, October 13, 2017 // 7:30p.m.

Dec. 9, 10, 13, 14, 16 & 17 // 2:00p.m. Dec. 9, 10, 16 & 17 // 6:00p.m. Dec. 8, 15 // 8:00p.m.

Darlene Love Sunday, February18, 2018 // 3:00p.m.

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Cirque Eloize “Saloon”

Dublin Irish Dance

My Father’s Dragon

Wednesday, March 7, 2018 // 7:30p.m.

Sunday, March 18, 2018 // 3:00p.m.

Sunday, April 15, 2018 // 3:00p.m.

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Absolutely Stunning! WOW!

Kinzua Sky Walk, Allegheny National Forest

Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts™ July 13-16, 2017 Children & Youth Day July 12, 2017

This year’s special events include performances by Harpeth Rising, The Billy Price Band, The Raleigh Ringers, and many more. The festival presents a wonderful array of events including the giant sand sculpture, Downtown State College Italian Street Painting Festival, Sue Crowe Memorial Arts Festival Races and a full day of children’s activities.

One of the world’s “Top 10 most scenic skywalks” Enjoy camping, cabins, and miles of trails. FREE Guide & Map 800-473-9370 visitANF.com

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Tour some of Blair County’s historical treasures

Blair Co. Tourism

Fort Roberdeau is just one of the historical sites included in the Heritage Passport.

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Rev War Days July 15 - 16 Living History Daily Battles

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3-5 pm: Live Americana Folk Music

Both Events - Free Admission PA-6 recreation news I july 2017 I recreationnews.com

Touring a destination with the help of a passport is something adventurers, explorers, and historians have grown to love. A new passport adventure is now available in Blair County, Pa. The Heritage Passport is more than a guide to regional history. The booklet offers adventures for those who want to do more than tour a site. “Inspired in part by the wildly successful National Parks Passport of a similar nature, this booklet seeks to connect travelers to the dramatic stories, people, events, and places that profoundly shaped local and national history,” said Jared Frederick, an instructor of history at Penn State Altoona. The passport was a project for Frederick’s students. The hope is that visitors will enjoy using it as much as his students enjoyed creating it. “The project offered a number of students exciting opportunities to explore regional history and devise means to share that heritage with locals and travelers alike,” Frederick said. The pocket-size booklet features 17 different

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attractions. There is a two-page spread for each site that includes photos, information, and room to record your own memories. As with other passport programs, you collect a stamp at each site you visit.

Each stop an adventure Each stop has its own exciting, fun, fact-filled adventure. You’ll learn about the impact the railroad had in Pennsylvania at the interactive Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum, watch trains wrap around you as they travel through the Allegheny Mountains at the Horseshoe Curve, and board a steam engine locomotive for a ride at Everett Railroad. You also can tour a lead mine fort in the countryside, see a beautiful historic theater, and touch The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Plus, you can sample handmade candy at a candy store with a museum, visit an art museum, and explore at a state park. “The locations included offer rich historical context with exhibits, guided tours, and educational programming. This book is not a mere collection of separate historic sites, but rather a linking of central Pennsylvania landmarks with shared themes and meaningful stories,” noted Frederick.

While there is an admission cost for some of the stops featured, many are free to explore. You can purchase a passport at any of the locations featured in the booklet. To learn more about the Heritage Passport, visit explorealtoona.com.

PASSPORT ADVENTURE SITES Here’s a complete list of the destinations listed in Blair County’s Heritage Passport: A Quaint Corner Children’s Museum and Discovery Center Allegheny Portage Railroad Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum Baker Mansion Blair County Geological Society Canoe Creek State Park Fort Roberdeau Historic Site Gardners Candies Museum Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark Keirn Family World War II Museum Mishler Theatre Riser House Royer Mansion Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art The Everett Railroad Company The Wall that Heals Tyrone History Museum

Blair Co. Tourism

The Mishler Theater opened in 1906 and entertainers said if a show went well in Altoona, it was a good omen.

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Enter to Win

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CONTEST RULES 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 “JULY CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 7/17/2017. 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 July 17, 2017. Winner must respond by July 20, 2017 to claim prize, or prize forfeits to a runner up. Reservations subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply.

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NOTE: Phone number is 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.

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Education Programs Interpretive Exhibits 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

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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 is t e o i l p li tion to more 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

ief in n i l r llinger 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

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