Recreation News, March 2016.

Recreation THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF GOVEMPLOYEE.COM March 2016

Volume 34/Number 3

www.recreationnews.com

News

Railroad Attractions across the Mid-Atlantic

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A Getaway to Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest (Details inside)

plus

Dover Days celebrates Delaware history • Find a favorite fishing hole • Two regional music festivals • Springtime in Coastal Virginia • Civil War section • Along Nelson’s brew trail • Pennsylvania camping • Virginia Arts Festival

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Dover Days means spring in Delaware’s capital region Celebrate Easter • Holiday Brunch at $34.95 Seatings at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm • Musical entertainment throughout the day!

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With a variety of oldfashioned activities, historical presentations, and modern fun, Dover Days helps residents celebrate past and present. And, best of all, everybody is invited to this free, family-friendly festival.

The 83rd festival, set for May 6–8, gives a public nod to the Colonial history of Delaware’s capital city. This year’s edition will also include recognition of the 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act, which helps save historic buildings and created the National Register of Historic Places.

“Every state is doing what they’re calling ‘Preservation 50’ activities,” said Lorraine Dion, retiring director of

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Everybody enjoys Dover Days in Delaware’s capital city public relations and special events for Kent County Tourism.

Dover’s First State Heritage Park is a prime example of preservation at work. Preservation 50 activities to be held on The Green on Saturday include walking architectural tours and children’s hands-on activities focusing on archaeology and preserving old buildings, according to Sarah Zimmerman, the park superintendent.

There will also be a 40th anniversary celebration of the restoration of the Old State House, a 1790s building nearly demolished in the 20th century. “This was the first tangible fruit of the National Historic Preservation Act,” Zimmerman said.

What to expect One of Delaware’s longest-running festivals, Dover Days brings the

community together on and around the Legislative Mall and The Green.

“Last year, they estimated about 55,000 people came (to Dover Days) over the three days,” Dion said. In fact, the American Bus Association named it as a Top 100 U.S. festival for both 2013 and 2014, she said.

On Friday night, music and fireworks start off the festivities. A classic car show has been a Dover Days tradition for years, but this year it kicks it into high gear with a Friday night cruise-in.

Saturday fun begins with the parade, including a pet parade, at 9:30am. Some 250 children dance around the Maypole, an activity older folks may remember from their childhood, Dion said. Other activities include a vintage baseball game, continued on page 3

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K ent C o. T ourism

A Maypole is one of the kids’ activities during Dover Days, May 6–8.

delaware I staf f

Check out what’s new in Southern Delaware this season An expanding spirits scene and new events are coming to Southern Delaware this spring.

The inaugural Party at the Pond, A Family Jeep Jamboree takes place April 8–9 at Trap Pond State Park in Laurel. There will be a Jeep owners’ meet-and-greet, a chance for visitors to show off their Jeeps, and a scavenger hunt/poker run.

Trap Pond will also host a kids’ fishing tournament and offer nature tours. Camping is available. (jeeppartyatthepond.com) Beach Time Distilling, a craft distiller of rum, vodka, gin, and specialty spirits located in Lewes, will expand its schedule of tours.

(beachtimedistilling.com) Dogfish Head Distilling has launched a 100 percent scratch-made spirits line, starting with vodka and gin products. Dogfish is also opening a new seafood restaurant, Chesapeake and Main, in Rehoboth Beach. (dogfish.com) Also joining the scene on the Culinary Coast is Heirloom, a fine dining, farm-to-table restaurant. (heirloomdelaware.com) Brimming Horn Meadery is slated to open in Milton in the fall, offering a tasting area and a Scandinavian-style mead hall. Both meads and ciders will be available. (brimminghornmeadery.com)

Dover Days

year will include a cricket match. Dion said cricket is a sport Colonial Delawareans would recognize. “It’s a more leisurely day,� she said.

Dover Days began as a house and garden tour in 1933, the brainchild of Friends of Old Dover. The group remains involved with the festival, organizing displays at their offices at 323 S. State St., and supporting historical activities, according to Larry Josefowski, president of the group. “Our goal is to keep the historical aspect of Dover Days at the forefront as much as possible,� he said.

Because so many visitors spend the weekend, Kent County Tourism has organized lodging packages and special group tours. Signs will help drivers find parking, located downtown, mostly west and north of The Green.

continued from page 2 tours of the governor’s mansion, a pie-eating contest, an ice cream social, and a tea room.

Insider Tip: A hallmark of Dover Days is a Colonial artisan village with blacksmith, weaver, spinner, silhouette portraitist, bobbin lacemakers, and about 10 others who will offer demonstrations of their arts all day Saturday.

Look for Stanley Steamer cars and costumed reenactors in American Revolution, Civil War, and both World War I and II encampments. The Wheelmen, an antique bicycle club, will ride antique bikes in the parade and display them afterward.

They’ll also give a demonstration of the bikes.

A reproduction of the first bike, an 1819 hobby horse, should also be on view, according to Raymond Montsch of the Dover chapter.

Dover Air Force Base and local museums, such as the Johnson Victrola Museum, will also participate. There will also be lots of food and a craft show with nearly 400 vendors.

Sunday’s activities are more low-key and this

On June 4, the “Beach Goes Blue� as Rehoboth offers entertainment and all things blueberry, from cocktails and cobbler to ice cream and pancakes.

After dark, the beach will glow blue. (beach-fun.com) The first annual Delmarva Lavender Festival takes place June 11–12 at Warrington Manor in Milton. See wreath- and soap-making demonstrations and learn the art of distilling lavender essential oil and creating culinary sensations.

Local vendors and food trucks will also participate. (lavenderfieldsde.com)

Learn more Dover Days Festival: doverdaysfestival.com

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recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 3

editor’ s note I marvin bond

We’re riding the rails in March

Back in November in this space, I related the experience of taking our 3-year-old grandson to the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, the birthplace of commercial railroading in America. That visit reaffirmed for me that the love of trains isn’t restricted to childhood model trains or even the phenomenon of Thomas the Train. There is something about railroading that transcends age, and perhaps nowhere is there more appreciation for our railroad heritage than here in the Mid-Atlantic.

Many of the great names in rail-

road history are rooted here: the Baltimore and Ohio, the Pennsylvania Railroad, the Norfolk and Western, and many others. The rails conquered mountain geography, carried us westward, and served the special needs of industries like timber, coal, and iron.

Today, the Northeast Corridor is perhaps the most heavily traveled rail route in the country.

It’s only natural that we have embraced that rail heritage in many ways. There are numerous scenic rail excursions throughout the Mid-

from

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Atlantic, with Pennsylvania having more than any state in the country except California. We have museums dedicated to railroad history that include historic engines like the Tom Thumb and locomotives that are the last remaining of their type.

But that’s far from the complete picture. In our region, you can ride on smaller-scale trains, see some of the largest model train layouts in the world, eat in railroad-themed restaurants, and even sleep in a real caboose. Dedicated preservationists have also saved a different type of rail transportation, the street cars or trolleys that were so common until the middle of the 20th century.

In the pages of this issue of Recreation News, we provide a roundup of this wide variety of railroad-themed attractions, concentrating on those most accessible from the Washington-Baltimore area. You’ll find an even more complete roundup on our website.

So, come along for the ride as we take you from the birthplace of railroading to the most recent preservation of a sole-surviving specimen, the Norfolk & Western’s J611, which will make its first excursion runs this spring and appear at the Manassas Railroad Heritage Festival in June.

All aboard!

Travelers’ toolbox

u Stetson has introduced a new $20 Outback Soka hat that lets the air in through a cool mesh fabric. You can soak the hat for even cooler results through evaporation and it can be crushed for packing. Available for both men and women. (ebay. com/bhp/stetson-outback-hat is one source) u At-A-Glance planners are office supply staples, but can also be good for traveling. Some versions have sections for notes and contacts so you can keep track of expenses, as well as keep a journal in addition to your appointments — all in one place. (ataglance.com) u Winter can be hard on skin and sun damage knows no season.

Trilipiderm has produced a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen with vitamin D — made with all-natural ingredients — to re-establish the skin’s natural barrier to water loss and hydrate while providing protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. (trilipiderm.com)

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p u b lish er’ s note I ka rl teel

Where are you from?

Publisher Karl Teel with his wife in Estonia, the land of his forefathers I was watching television the other day and saw a commercial for DNA testing for people curious about their heritage. It’s almost unbelievable that what once cost thousands of dollars and took months to do is now mail order, returned within the week, and only is the cost of a dinner for two. I think I may try it.

I’ve been fortunate enough to know a lot about my lineage. My mother’s family was based in Connecticut for a generation or two prior to her birth.

Prior to that, the saga unfolds on a much broader scale, one branch of the family tree extending all the way back to the Mayflower and Miles Standish.

On my father’s side, we were Estonian, with the family fleeing during World War II. At that time, the church, not the government, held birth records.

This was important, as anyone in Europe needed to prove six generations of non-Jewish blood to be safe from Nazis. My grandfather was a minister, and the documents were complete for six generations, but there was almost nothing prior.

My wife and I have traveled a great deal.

I’ve been to more than 40 states and 60 foreign countries on four continents. I’ve always felt at home in New England.

Initially, I attributed that to a familiarity from travels there as a child visiting relatives. Much later in life, I went to Estonia, now a free country. I was shocked at the level of comfort and familiarity

I felt there. My wife would comment, “No wonder you like smoked salmon so much,” or “I can see why you love lakes surrounded by balsam and birch forests.” I began to think a lot of this comfort could be a genetic component. I wonder if this is psychologically or intellectually based, or if an adopted child would feel the same way without knowing an explanation. It’s hard to say.

I know there are some families where both parents have seemingly countless generations in the same town, but that is more the exception than the rule. I think most of us are fairly well able to document two or three generations spanning multiple geographic locations. From other clues, like last names, other lineage can be determined: O’Malleys from Ireland, D’Angelos from Italy, etc.

Others have clues from family lore: “We were coal miners from Kentucky” or “We came from France in the 1700s as fur trappers along the St. Lawrence River.” The new DNA tests will at least give some irrefutable geographic parameters.

Like the game “Six Degrees of Separation,” we are all somehow tied together, and going back a few generations provides nearly endless possibilities. In that respect, it would seem that just about everywhere you travel; there will be some connection to you, regardless of whether or not you are aware of it.

So where are you going to travel to next? Will there be a connection? Where are you from? Explore and find out.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 ~ Dover Days 3 ~ New in Southern Delaware 4 ~ Editor’s Note 5 ~ Publisher’s Note 6 ~ Travel Line 8 ~ West Virginia rail experiences 9 ~ Railroading and more in Blair County 10 ~ Regional railroad-themed attractions 13 ~ Roanoke: Railroadin’ and Rockwell 14 ~ New in Mountain Maryland 15 ~ Family Travel 16 ~ Pennsylvania campgrounds 18 ~ Coastal Virginia 20 ~ Virginia’s spring birding 22 ~ Nelson’s Brew Ridge Trail 23 ~ Virginia Arts Festival 24 ~ Calendar of Events 28 ~ Mid-Atlantic fishing 32 ~ Virginia Museum of the Civil War 33 ~ Final surrender in North Carolina 35 ~ Cruise Corner 35 ~ Music festivals 36 ~ Adventures in Taste 37 ~ Wine Doctor

On our cover The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, steaming through southeastern West Virginia, is just one of many scenic excursion trains and other railroad-themed attractions throughout the Mid-Atlantic. (Steve Shaluta)

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trav el line I carol timbl in

Spring brings festivals of art, flowers, and scenic train rides It comes as no surprise that Conde Nast Traveler recently named Charleston “the friendliest city in America” — an honor bestowed on the historic South Carolina gem many times in recent years.

The Holy City, so named because of its many churches, not only dishes up plenty of friendly, Southern charm but a plethora of things to see and do. Think art galleries, museums, historic home and garden tours, unique shops, gourmet restaurants, rooftop bars, delightful inns and hotels, and world renowned festivals.

This year’s annual Charleston Wine + Food festival is coming up March 2–6. However, if you want to think about going to the stellar event in 2017, check out charlestonwineandfood.com and start planning.

Next on the calendar is the Historic Charleston Foundation’s 69th annual Festival of Houses and Gardens, March 16–April 24, a celebration of the city’s distinctive architecture, gardens, culture, and history, from Colonial times into the 20th century. Each neighborhood tour offers sites within walking distance of one another and allows guests to step inside rarely seen private homes and gardens, plus there are many other activities to enjoy. (historiccharleston.org) Now approaching its 40th season, Spoleto Festival USA was founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti, Christopher Keene, and others who wanted to create an American counterpart to the annual Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy. Considered among America’s premier performing arts festivals today, Spoleto Festival USA provides 17 continuous days and nights of opera, theater, and dance, as well as

family event

On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone can be a teenybit Irish. Enjoy local area parades and get into the spirit: u Alexandria steps off first (March 5, 12:30pm). u Gaithersburg has Irish dancers and a pipe band with kids’ activities until 1:00pm (March 12, 10:00am). u Manassas has several local pipe and drum outfits and the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard (March 12, 11:00am). u ShamrockFest 2016 at RFK Stadium has live music, an Irish village, vendors, and food (March 12, 3:00-11:00pm). u Washington, D.C., celebrates along Constitution Avenue with floats, bands, military, police, and fire units (March 12, noon).

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FREE IN D.C.

The nation’s capital is all about springtime and pink petals during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, March 20–April 17. Many cultural performances and events are free. (nationalcherry blossomfestival.org) See the various ways 43 artists have gone about making portraits in The Outwin 2016: American Portraiture Today exhibition opening March 12 at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. (npg.si.edu) — gwen woolf

chamber, symphonic, choral, and jazz music that is performed at venues all over Charleston.

This year’s festival kicks off on May 27 with two shows: the Dublin’s Gate Theatre performance of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest and a concert by Grammy Award-winning band Old Crow Medicine Show. The season wraps up at Middleton Place on June 12 with the Wells Fargo Festival Finale, featuring picnicking, a beer garden, fireworks, and a performance by Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats. In between these two days, a multitude of cultural experiences awaits festivalgoers.

Several performances of George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, based on the DuBose Hayward book about Charleston’s Cabbage Row, are scheduled during the festival, as well as Porgy and Bess walking tours (new this year). Bank of America Chamber Music concerts will be offered twice daily, May 27–June 12, at the historic Dock Street Theatre.

Festivalgoers may also enjoy the 40th-Season Celebration Concert, conducted by Steven Sloane at Charleston’s Gaillard Center, on May 28. (A full schedule of events and ticket information, plus details on restaurants, lodging, and attractions, are available at spoletousa.org.)

The Piccolo Spoleto Festival, offering more than 500 separate events that run simultaneously with Spoleto Festival USA, focuses on artists in the Southeast. (piccolospoleto.com)

Also in the Carolinas Summerville, a few miles north of Charleston, hosts the annual Flowertown Festival April 1–3 at Azalea Park and along Main Street. It features more than 300 arts and crafts and food vendors, music, and children’s events (rides, games, and more), plus free admission and parking. (flowertownfestival.org) The main focus of the North Carolina Azalea Festival, April 6–10 in Wilmington, is the Cape Fear Garden Club’s tours, now in their 63rd year.

The tours begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the first day at Greenfield Lake, followed by the introduction of Queen Azalea and this year’s Belles, attired in antebellum costumes. Wilmington’s Air-

lie and Orton gardens are also included in the tours.

The five-day festival features a variety of concerts, art shows, coin shows, sporting events (even boxing matches), a street fair, a parade, home and garden tours, circus performances, food vendors, and children’s activities. (ncazaleafestival.org) Spectacular orchids make their debut March 19 during the “Biltmore Blooms” event at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C., followed by an array of 75,000 tulips all over the grounds, through May 25.

The exhibit Fashionable Romance: Wedding Gowns in Film continues at the estate through July 4. (biltmore.com)

House and garden tours in the Mid-Atlantic Virginia celebrates spring with house and garden tours in cities and towns across the state during Historic Garden Week, April 23–30. “America’s Largest Open House” offers opportunities to see gardens during their peak blooming season and beautiful houses decorated with more than 2,000 floral arrangements created by Garden Club of Virginia members.

Visit vagardenweek.org for more details on the statewide event, including six suggested tours: Shenandoah Valley/Central Valley, April 23–27; Northern Virginia, April 23–26; Chesapeake Bay, April 27–30; Southern Virginia, April 24–30; Capital Region, April 23–30; and Coastal Virginia, April 23–28.

The Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage features Saturday tours through the end of May. Destinations include Queen Anne’s County, April 30; Harford County, May 7; Talbot County, May 14; Baltimore County, May 15; and Charles County, May 28. (mhgp.org)

Celebrating trains

Remember The Wreck of the Old 97, a famous song about the legendary Fast Mail train that left Monroe, Va., an hour late for Spencer, N.C., in the fall of 1903? Engineer Steve Broady was at the controls when it wrecked at a high speed on the Stillhouse Trestle near Danville, Va., killing him and several others.

Built by Baldwin LocomoV irg inia M u seu m of T ransp ortation tive Works in Philadelphia less than a year before the wreck, Southern Railway Locomotive 1102 was rebuilt following the disaster and remained in service for 32 years. The song may come to mind when the Norfolk & Western Class J 611 steam passenger locomotive, one of America’s most advanced steam trains, makes a round trip between Spencer, N.C., and Lynchburg, Va., on April 9.

The J611, which serves as ambassador for the Virginia Museum of Transportation, was built in RoaThe restored J611 steam locomotive returns to the rails to offer a noke, placed in service in variety of excursion trips this spring.

6 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

1950, and restored in the Bob Julian Roundhouse of the North Carolina Transportation Museum at Spencer last year. A second trip on the J611, The Blue Ridge Special, travels from Spencer to Asheville on April 10.

Both trips will be hosted by the North Carolina museum.

The Virginia Transportation Museum in Roanoke will host several other excursions on the J611 for the remainder of the season. The Roanoker goes from Greensboro to Roanoke on April 23 and 24. The Powhatan Arrow travels from Roanoke to Lynchburg on May 7 and 8, while The Pelican makes a run from Roanoke to Walton (Radford) on the same dates.

The American travels from Manassas to Front Royal on June 4 and 5 (with two runs on the last day).

MARYLAND

Spring train excursions leave in the early morning and return in the early evening. Tickets start at $169 per person in coach class and go up to $649 per person for seats in the club car. A four-person suite is priced at $1,280. (vmt.org) While waiting for trains in Spencer or Roanoke, you should check out the exhibits at these outstanding transportation museums. In addition, more than 300 photographs by O. Winston Link, who documented the Spend an afternoon cycling last days of steam along along winding country roads the Norfolk and Western Railway, or exploring scenic, forested are exhibited at the O. Winston Link paths at Tuckahoe State Park.

Museum in Roanoke. (linkmuseum. org)

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For a Passport to History, stop by the Visitor Center at 151 S. East St. Frederick, MD.

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railroad attractions I su cl au son- wicke r

West Virginia rail adventures take you into yesteryear For all its sound and fury, the Old No. 3, one of only three operating Climax logging locomotives left on earth, is a slow ride. A white-tailed deer stares us down from the track ahead for whole minutes, jumping away only when we’re close enough to see she’s shedding her winter coat.

Speed is not what we’re about anyway at the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad as we take in views of the Monongahela National Forest. The Durbin Rocket, as she’s called these days, makes her way, huffing, clanking, and spewing acrid black smoke along the Greenbrier River. When the whistle blows, a plume of white steam erupts skyward.

Families and rail fans flock to northern Pocahontas County, W.Va., to ride the 1920-era coaches, open cars, and vintage wooden cabooses. The Rocket’s combination of open and closed cars gives children the option of free movement through the train as she chugs her way to and from Hevener Station.

But the Rocket is only one of several great trains of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad brand.

With departures from a handful of towns, these trains transport passengers into some of the most dramatic scenery east of the Rockies. Another option, the 1940s-era New Tygart, makes fourhour trips from Elkins to a majestic waterfall. The air-conditioned cars cross a bridge only slightly

wider than the train and rumble through a tunnel a quarter-mile long.

Still another trip, aboard the diesel Cheat Mountain Salamander, travels into the high spruce forests of Cheat Mountain through true wilderness for nine hours. The excursion includes a long S-curve tunnel under Cheat Mountain, a waterfall, and opportunities for eagle and bear sightings, as well as lunch and dinner in the dining car.

Cass Scenic Railroad Chugging along in an open car behind the antique Shay engine at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you may feel you’ve been “switchbacked” into the 1920s. Spewing volumes of black smoke, the Shay follows Leatherbark Creek up the flank of Back Allegheny Mountain, pistons pulsing, crankshaft rotating, wheels driving, and seven cars moving smoothly along the tracks.

“This never gets old,” says passenger Jack Leary, who watches the Pocahontas County landscape unfold from the seat of a railcar each spring.

From late May through the end of October, the 162-ton iron beast hauls hundreds of tourists up and down the old logging line. The first stop is a re-created logging camp at Whittaker Station; the five-hour ride proceeds on to Bald Knob’s stupendous views.

A “Wild Heart of West Virginia Adventure” package now offers a combined ride on two trains — the Cass and the Cheat Mountain Salamander — with overnight options in Elkins or in the former logging town of Cass. West Virginia’s Mountain Rail Adventures hosts special rail events throughout the year including picnics, music, murder mysteries, and star-gazing events.

Potomac Eagle Farther northeast, the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad focuses on its namesake, the American bald eagle. In fact, eagles are sighted on nine out of 10 trips.

The train features several open-top cars for wildlife viewing along the South Branch of the Potomac River. The 1950s GE diesel locomotive also pulls a vintage dining club car and a snack bar. The narrated trip, which runs from Romney to Moorefield, was featured as one of PBS Television’s “10 Most Scenic Train Rides in America.”

For more information Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad/Cass/ Mountain Rail: mountainrailwv.com Mountain Rail Adventures: mtn-rail.com Potomac Eagle: potomaceagle.info

WOW! So Many...

Mountainrail Excursion Choices!

Departing Elkins Depot on select Saturdays, the EXPLORER glides through the MononMurder Mystery Wine Trains!, Fathers Day Pic-nicTrain! gahela National Forest to Mothers Day Dinner Train! Halloween Train! Easter your destination; the beautiful Train! Great Train Race Event! OLD Fashioned Whittaker HIGH FALLS of CHEAT where you can stretch your legs and Weenie Roast !Spring Ramp Trains! Polar Express Train! admire the view from a platform above e or below the Falls.

DURBIN URBIN N ROCKE ROCKET R

NEW TYGART FLYER

CHEAT MOUNTAIN SALAMANDER

CASS SCENIC RAILROAD

Built in 1910, 0, this signat signature steam locomotive then 1920s-era coach, a genuine features an authentic railroad post-office car and a vintage cabooses.

This wilderness excursion features mountain grades, an “S” curve tunnel, a high bridge and miles of unspoiled mountain views.

Travel into the high country forests of legendary Cheat Mountain on this most distinctive rail excursion, featuring great mountain vistas.

The mighty and historic Shays of the Cass Scenic Railroad chug up the steepest mountains of the Mountain State.

Call: 866.697.6028 Ext. 108 • MTN-RAIL.com 8 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

railroading I jennifer fleck

Blair County provides railroad experiences and summer fun There are new adventures to explore in Blair County, Pa., this year.

One nearly new adventure is when you board the Everett Railroad Company’s restored steam locomotive. The 23-mile excursion begins at a newly constructed old-fashioned train station in historic Hollidaysburg and is a great way to supplement a visit to the Railroaders Memorial Museum and Horseshoe Curve.

The excursion train travels along the banks of the Juniata River through scenic Pennsylvania farmland and wooded areas. Leading the way is Steam Locomotive No. 11. The 2-6-0 ALCO was constructed in 1923 and returned to service last fall for the first time since 1973.

“She’s 93 years old. It took nine years and countless man hours to get her back on the rails,” said the railroad’s Sophia Vaughn.

The Everett Railroad operates a variety of excursions, most of which are approximately 60- to 90-minutes long. Most are holiday-driven special events, though they do operate non-event excursions on specified weekends. Upcoming excursions include a Troops & Trains event, ice cream socials, the Easter EGGspress, a trip to a pumpkin patch where children get to pick pumpkins, and Santa Express trains during the holidays that include snacks, caroling, and a Christmas present.

Some events include a stop in the historic town of Roaring Spring.

The Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona chronicles the Pennsylvania Railroad’s impact on Altoona and highlights the daily life of both railroad workers and their families. Horseshoe Curve is a National Historic Landmark and engineering marvel that still carries 50 trains per day and is accessible by the funicular or landscaped steps.

between them, including a stop at the Allegheny Portage Railroad near the world-famous Horseshoe Curve.

So, come board the train, splash at a water park, tour a historic mansion,

or ride the trails — your adventure awaits!

Learn More Blair Co. Tourism: explorealtoona.com B l air C o. T ou rism

More than railroads In addition to its railroad history, Blair County offers a variety of other new experiences. The new Laguna Splash water park, featuring a wave pool and lazy river, will open at DelGrosso’s Amusement Park in May. The park’s expansion includes three new food venues, as well. The Juniata Memorial Spray Park will open for its second season, offering an entertaining way to cool off during the hot summer months.

Fort Roberdeau Historic Site will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the reconstruction of its Colonial-era fort with new events. And, Baker Mansion, the 1849 home to iron magnate Elias Baker, is showcasing the restoration of its double parlor and the new visitor center on the grounds.

The September 11 National Memorial Trail is now ridable as a pilgrimage trail from Pittsburgh to New York City. The trail covers the plane crash sites, as well as a collection of historic sites in the hundreds of miles

The Train Where

The Railroaders Memorial Museum explores the daily lives of Pennsylvania Railroad workers and their families.

®

EAGLES FLY

Eagle sightings occur on 95% of all excursions!

Historic Locomotives & Trains • Regular 3 hour excursions departing Romney, WV • Monthly all day trips from Romney to Petersburg, WV • Club car & coach seating available on all trains • Excursions Saturdays, May-August; Saturdays and Sundays in September.

• Daily trains in October

INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS: 304-424-0736 • www.potomaceagle.info 149 Eagle Drive, Rt 28N, Romney WV recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 9

railroading I jane and marvin bond

Themed attractions track railroad heritage in the Mid-Atlantic The Mid-Atlantic is rich with opportunities to ride the rails — both literally and figuratively. You can travel on the historic first mile of commercial track, see one of the world’s largest model train layouts, check out the trolleys of bygone days, and visit the museums that preserve our railroad heritage. In

addition to West Virginia’s excursion trains, there are also scenic excursions available in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, and a brand new opportunity in Virginia.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg of railroad adventures.

Here are some opportunities within a few hours of the Washing-

A Feast for the Eyes:

A Great Change in the Situation of Man:

Quilts and Textiles from Central Virginia

Lynchburg’s Railroads

January 12 - December 31

March 12 - December 31

ton-Baltimore area. Find a more complete list at RecreationNews.com

MID-ATLANTIC SCENIC EXCURSION TRAINS Walkersville Southern Railroad Walkersville, Md. wsrr.org, 301-898-0899 Opens its 25th season with Bunny Trains March 19, 20, and 26 and regular Saturday runs May through September with Saturday and Sunday excursions in October. Round trip is about 70 minutes. Special steam trains in May and June, with special Jesse James Days monthly and other special events, including mystery dinner trains and Santa trains in November and December.

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Cumberland, Md. wmsr.com, 800-TRAIN-50 Climb 1,300 feet from Cumberland to Frostburg on a 3-1/2 hour trip that includes time to explore Frostburg and watch the crew turn the locomotive on the turntable. Regular excursions offer four classes of service. Special opportunities include cab rides, caboose rides, a hands-on throttle experience, and autumn scenic rides.

Steam Into History New Freedom, Pa. steamintohistory.com, 717-942-2370 Ride to Glen Rock or Hanover

FREE ADMISSION

/LynchburgMuseum • /LburgMuse 901 Court St. Lynchburg, VA • www.LynchburgMuseum.org • (434) 455-6226

y r o t s i H YOUR GATEWAY TO

There’s so much for the train lover in your family to see and do in Frederick County! Celebrate Brunswick’s rich railroad history during Brunswick Railroad Days or visit their Heritage Museum throughout the year; tour the Roads and Rails museum in Downtown Frederick or take a scenic train ride on the Walkersville Southern Railroad. While you’re here, grab a bite to eat or do some shopping in one of our unique restaurants or shops.

www.visitfrederick.org (800) 999-3613

N W O T AGERS

visi t

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Our dining, wineries and fun filled Arts & Entertainment District.

www.VISITMONTGOMERY.com 877.789.6904 Socialize with us @MoCoTourism

Celebrate Women’s History Mont h w it h t he Nat ional Capital Trol ley Museum!

The special exhibit, Women i n Transit ion, depicts t he l ives of women t ra nsit workers during World War II. T he Trol ley Museum is open ever y Saturday and Sunday f rom 12-5pm.

10 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

ay Call toodur for y

FREE

uide!

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888-257-2600 | VISITHAGERSTOWN.COM

Junction behind a re-creation of the locomotive that took Abraham Lincoln to Gettysburg or a more modern diesel engine. The season runs March–December with Bunny Trains March 19, 20, 25, and 26 and weekend runs in April and May. Midweek trains run June and July with a heavy schedule in October.

There is entertainment on most every run with musicians or living historians. Cowboys and Civil War reenactors can storm the train and even Mary Poppins wil make an appearance this year. Use the code “Recreation News” for a $2 discount.

Wilmington and Western Railroad Wilmington, Del. wwrr.com, 302-998-1930 Turning 50 in 2016, the Wilmington and Western operates both steam and early diesel locomotives traveling from the Piedmont to the Coastal Plain for geographic diversity. Easter Bunny Trains are set for March 19, 29, 25, and 26, with a schedule that grows into July and features special trains in October, November, and December.

Everett Railroad Hollidaysburg, Pa. everettrailroad.com, 814-696-EVRR A recently restored 1923 steam engine powers most excursions along the 23-mile system, beginning with an Easter EGGspress event March 19, 20, and 26. Other special event and basic excursions are available during the season.

Strasburg Railroad Ronks, Pa. strasburgrailroad.com, 866-725-9666 Take the 45-minute ride on the oldest continu-

ously operated short-line railroad in America.

Journey through the Amish countryside on a variety of accommodations, including a unique Pinball Pendolino car available on select weekends that challenges your skill with the train’s motion. The season begins March 12 and runs daily through October, with special event trains in November and December.

Pulled By The World Famous N & W Class J 611

Tioga Central Railroad Wellsboro, Pa. tiogacentral.com, 570-724-0990 Billing itself as Pennsylvania’s most scenic railroad, the Tioga Central runs a 34-mile route Thursday–Sunday from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Dinner trains and ice cream social trains are among the special events offered. continued on page 12

Northern Virginia Excursions!

June 4 and 5 Manassas to Front Royal Take a ride on real trolleys weekends Memorial Day through October!

MARCH 19 — EASTER BUNNY TROLLEY! May 28 & 29 — Opening Day June 4 — Aughwick Antique Tractor Club & Animal Rescue Day June 11 — P&W Day including the Liberty Liner!

June 18 & 19 — Father’s Day Weekend July 16 — PCC & LRV Electric Rail Day July 30 — Homecoming Sept. 5 & 6 — Snow Cone and Soft Pretzel Day Fall/Winter events — check website or call 814-447-9576

(Round Trip)

Visit FireUp611.org for a complete excursion schedule and to purchase tickets

RockhillTrolley.org Rockhill Furnace, PA

303 Norfolk Ave. Roanoke, VA VMT.ORG

Interested in rail travel, railroads and their history?

TRAVEL ON ESCORTED RAIL TOURS, ranging from half-day local tours to weekend get-away packages to longer private rail car adventures (see web site for current offerings); ENJOY CUSTOMIZED PRIVATE RAIL CAR TRAVEL aboard Dover Harbor, Franklin Inn and Collinsville Inn—available for rent across the USA; PARTICIPATE IN HANDS-ON RAIL EQUIPMENT RESTORATION AND OPERATION of historic Pullman and Pennsylvania Railroad cars; LEARN ABOUT RAILROADS AND THEIR HISTORY with FREE monthly presentations on railroad topics, monthly newsletter, The Timetable and the Martin F. O’Rourke Railroad Library in Bowie.

For more information, or to join us:

Sponsored by:

Experience the rich railroad history of Manassas at the 22nd Annual Heritage Railway Festival on June 4, 2016 from 10am to 3pm. Enjoy train excursions, model displays, a surprise visit from the 611 Steam Engine and more!

For more information, go to www.visitmanassas.org

703-273-8440 / www.dcnrhs.org

For FREE Trip News, text doverharbor to 22828

Your MidAtlantic Railroad Adventure Awaits

Steamtown National Historic Site In Beautiful Luzerne County, PA • Self-guided History • Roundhouse and Technology museums • State-of-the-art digital Theater • Daily ranger-led walking tours • Seasonal train rides are an additional cost

For Accommodations and Visitor Information visit tournepa.com

570-340-5200 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503 www.NPS.gov/stea

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P.O. Box 248 300 Paradise Ln. ♦ Strasburg, PA 17579 Ronks, PA 17572

www.nttmuseum.org m.nttmuseum.org

recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 11

Railroading continued from page 11

MUSEUMS WITH EXCURSIONS Virginia Museum of Transportation Roanoke, Va. vmt.org, 540-342-5670 Situated alongside Roanoke’s working tracks, the museum’s Rail Yard is home to historic steam and diesel engines, cabooses, and other rail equipment, including the only surviving Norfolk and Western steam locomotives.

The restoration of the J611, an extraordinary piece of history as one of the last steam engines built for

the last commercial railroad to use steam power, was made possible by contributions from railroad fans in all 50 states and 19 foreign countries.

The J611 will offer excursions this spring.

See story on page 13.

B&O Railroad Museum Baltimore, Md. borail.org, 410-752-2490 Housed at the birthplace of American commercial railroading, Baltimore’s B&O Railroad Museum offers a roundhouse and rail yard with historic trains such as the Tom Thumb and the locomotive that pulled President Lincoln’s funeral train. There are exhibits and lots of activities and events for children. You can ride on the Mile One Express, journeying

BOWIE

Steamtown National Historic Site Scranton, Pa. nps.gov/stea, 570-340-5200 The only national park site dedicated to the history of steam railroading is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2016. There are selfguided tours of History, Roundhouse, and Technology museums and a digital theater presenting the 18-minute movie Steel and Steam.

You can also take a daily rangerled walking tour. Short excursion rides are available April–December, including a daily schedule in July and August.

RAILROAD MUSEUMS

Railroad Museum

Visit the depot, passenger shed, and tower where Bowie began and see the artifacts and exhibits. Home to the National Railroad Historical Society Research Library.

Great trainspotting along the Amtrak Northeast Corridor line.

Near shops and eateries in Historic Old Bowie.

Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm FREE Admission

along the historic first mile of track heading out of Baltimore. Rides are offered Thursday–Sunday, April–December.

8614 Chestnut Ave., Bowie, Md. 240-544-5677 cityofbowie.org/museum

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania Strasburg, Pa. rrmuseumpa.org, 717 687-8628 The vast indoor collection of locomotives and passenger, mail, and freight cars is amazing and the collection continues outside with a 5-1/2-acre yard centered around an operational 1928 turntable. The collection represents 18 different Pennsylvania railroads and is supplemented by permanent and special exhibits throughout the facility. An exhibit on the evolution of railroading safety practices runs

April 23–Dec. 31. You can climb into a locomotive cab simulator built from a real Norfolk Southern diesel cab, view a brief video, and operate the throttle, brakes, and horn to guide the train from Lancaster to Harrisburg.

The museum hosts a Rails & Ales event April 16 that includes craft beer, food trucks, and music inside the main exhibit hall.

Train 202 Engine and Museum Hagerstown, Md. visithagerstown.com, 301-739-8577, ext. 180 The museum features artifacts such as signs, signals, tools, and other railroad equipment as well as eight cabooses, an 1885 pump car, and an 1875 velocipede. The crown jewel of the collection is Steam Engine 202, which carried passengers and baggage from Baltimore to Hagerstown from 1912–1953. It is the only Western Maryland road-type steam locomotive in existence. Open April–October on Fridays and Saturdays.

Bowie Train Station and Museum Bowie, Md. cityofbowie.org/museum, 301-809-3089 Huntington City (now Bowie) grew up around the depot and today’s continued on page 15

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Experience this amazing, world-class collection of more than 100 historic American locomotives and railroad cars. Climb aboard a caboose, take the throttle in an authentic locomotive cab, inspect a 62-ton engine from underneath and go hands-on in the delightful railway education center. Special events, working restoration shop, exhibits, tours and virtual tours, orientation video, museum store and more.

Open year-round. Free parking, free Wi-Fi. AAA GEM attraction.

300 Gap Road, PA Route 741 P. O. Box 125, Strasburg, PA 17579 (717)687-8628 • www.rrmuseumpa.org

12 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

DiscoverLynchburg.org

railroading I jane and marvin bond

Roanoke re-creates history Roanoke’s development is closely tied to the Norfolk and Western Railroad and trains still rumble along the tracks that pass the old passenger station, which now serves as a visitor center and home to the O. Winston Link Museum.

Roanoke’s Rail Walk explains the influence of the railroad on the development of the area and connects the downtown’s Taubman Museum of Art with the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Inside the transportation museum are model trains and hands-on exhibits, including an expanded gallery showing the contributions of African-Americans to railroad history.

The museum’s outdoor exhibits include huge steam locomotives that are the sole survivors of the Norfolk and Western’s steam era and are among the museum’s most popular exhibits. The museum’s non-railroad exhibits include hand- and horse-drawn vehicles, modern cars and trucks, and aviation exhibits. (vmt.org)

On the tracks again The J611 engine was one of the last steam engines built for the Norfolk and Western in Roanoke’s East End Shops and begins a new chapter in its history after its recent restoration. The rarity and fame of the J611 drew contributions from around the world to fund the restoration.

The J611 will offer a series of 10 excursion dates beginning in April and ending in June. The April excursions originate at the North Carolina Transportation Museum, where the recent restoration of the J611 was completed, or in Greensboro, N.C. Excursions will originate in Roanoke on May 7 and 8, heading for either Lynchburg or Radford.

Morning excursions to Lynchburg pass under the Blue Ridge Parkway and see the Peaks of Otter, which Thomas Jefferson once thought were the highest peaks in Virginia.

The afternoon excursion to Radford climbs the Appalachian Mountains and passes through the twin-bore Montgomery Tunnel.

The J611 will also appear at the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival and offer half-day trips to Front Royal on June 4 and 5, passing through Virginia’s horse country and Civil War landmarks.

Does it seem like weekends are never long enough?

It’s time for a visit to the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, where you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway or hike along the Appalachian Trail. It’s also the largest metropolitan area in Virginia’s Mountains, which means you’ll find great dining, award-winning craft beer, cultural events and nightlife.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT ON BLUE RIDGE STANDARD TIME.

800.635.5535

PLAN YOUR GETAWAY AT VISITVABLUERIDGE.COM ANOTHER GREAT REASON FOR A ROAD TRIP TO VIRGINIA’S BLUE RIDGE:

Norman Rockwell’s art The Taubman Museum of Art, at the other end of the Rail Walk, is itself an architectural tip of the hat to the Roanoke area, with its unique design that evokes the surrounding mountain landscape as well as the city’s railroad heritage.

The museum will present a major exhibition exploring the legendary American illustrator and artist Norman Rockwell. American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell was organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Mass., and features original works by the beloved artist.

The exhibition runs March 20–June 12. (taubmanmuseum.org)

AMERICAN CHRONICLES: THE ART OF NORMAN ROCKWELL MARCH 20, 2016 – JUNE 12, 2016 The Taubman Museum of Art is pleased to present a major exhibition exploring the legendary American illustrator and artist. This Norman Rockwell exhibition features original works drawn from its permanent collection.

FOR TICKETS: VisitVABlueRidge.com/Rockwell recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 13

m ary land I david wil l iams

Big news coming from Mountain Maryland in 2016 As Maryland’s fastest growing getaway destinations, Cumberland and Allegany County are becoming

the centerpiece of Mountain Maryland’s new appeal for outdoor relaxation seekers as well as those who W estern M aryl and S cenic R ail road

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s restoration of C&O Steam Locomotive 1309 will add another historic engine to power the excursions from Cumberland to Frostburg.

14 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

enjoy the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s excursions.

Barb Buehl, who promotes the area, is looking forward to 2016 as a year of new attractions and new events, especially in the area of heritage activities and entertainment.

The Mountain Maryland calendar this year includes bluegrass legend Del McCoury’s namesake DelFest event on Memorial Day weekend, and the season opening of popular farmers’ markets the next weekend, in early June.

“Farm-to-table dining, outdoor recreation, and Americana music are ideal companion interests,” Buehl says. “We are an authentic place and that seems to be a growing interest for visitors from the metro area.”

There is no lack of new destinations on the heritage side, either, as a new Whiskey Rebellion Festival is planned on Cumberland’s traditional Heritage Days Weekend in midJune.

Railroad preservation The biggest news of all may be the debut of the impressive new steam locomotive acquired and now being restored by the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.

The former C&O 1309 Baldwin articulated steam locomotive was transferred to the WMSR by the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore and is expected to enter service in late summer, to the delight of rail fans nationwide.

One of the last steam locomotives made in America, 1309 will be the largest engine of its type in service once the million-dollar restoration is complete.

The railroad’s excursions climb 1,300 feet from Cumberland to Frostburg and provide a leisurely trip through vistas that are spectacular in each season.

Find all of Mountain Maryland’s Allegany County and Cumberland travel resources, events, and attractions at mdmountainside.com.

f am ily trav el I ami neiberg er- mil l er

The whole family can enjoy riding the rails across the region Washington area families sometimes take train travel for granted — MARC, Amtrak, and Metro are mentioned on daily transit reports alongside the latest traffic delays. It’s easy for us to forget the enchanting fun of riding the rails. Here are a couple of day trip opportunities.

The B&O Railroad Museum Visit the birthplace of American railroading at the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum. You can see historic steam engines and learn all about the history of railroading in the very location where the first chartered rail passenger and freight carrier in the United States was founded. The nation’s first telegraph line ran along the railroad’s tracks.

The best known building on the property is the roundhouse, which has 22 sides and is 245 feet in diameter. If your child has ever played with the Thomas the Train roundhouse where the cars rotate on a little turntable, this is the real deal but on a far grander scale. The roundhouse has a 60-foot turntable and there are regular demonstrations of how it was used.

You can enjoy a ride on the rails, going to the site where the first stone of the B&O Railroad was laid on July 4, 1828, by Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, the last living signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Train rides aboard the Mile One Express are of-

Railroading

fered Thursday through Sunday from April through December, and on weekends in January. The train ride schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 11:30am, Saturdays at 11:30am and 2:00pm, and Sundays at 1:00pm.

There are two Day Out With Thomas weekends at the museum, April 22–24 and April 29–May 1, that feature rides behind Thomas the Tank Engine and live entertainment.

The cost is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $12 for children (ages 2 through 12). You can buy a combination ticket for discounted admission to Mount Clare Museum House (during the holidays you can even ride the rails to get there) and Ellicott City Station. There’s also a kiddie train ride, known as Choo Choo Blueville, open seasonally for an additional fee. (borail.com)

Strasburg Railroad Some experiences are timeless. I first visited the Strasburg Railroad in Ronks, Pa., when my three brothers were overall-wearing train-obsessed preschoolers. When I visited the railroad as an adult with my own daughter, who is especially fond of Thomas the Tank Engine, it was like stepping back in time — remembering my siblings and the fun they had — and seeing my own child roar with delight and a big smile when the engine pulled the coach away from the station.

The railroad offers 45-minute train rides behind steam engines through the bucolic scenery.

We enjoyed the Day Out With Thomas train ride, which is only available at select times of the year.

Our daughter was thrilled with the train ride.

You can catch the Day Out With Thomas program and rides with Percy three times this year (June 18–26, Aug. 27–Sept. 4, and Nov. 18–20).

There are also special activities for kids during the Day Out With Thomas program, including tattoos, a musical band with instruments kids can play (this was a winner with our child), and story times.

Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for kids for the railroad excursion trains. Prices for Day Out With Thomas events are $22 per person and $28 per person for the package with Percy (purchasing your tickets in advance is recommended due to the popularity of this event).

For an extra cost, you can try out the hand-propelled cranky cars, ride behind a miniature steam locomotive, or enjoy the pump car. There is a great souvenir shop, but we also liked meeting the Amish merchants selling souvenirs near the parking lot. We bought a train shelf and a wooden toy train to take home with us to remember our visit.

Trains go back into daily service on March 12 and run through October, then switch to weekends and special events in November and December. (strasburgrailroad.com)

S teve S hal u ta

continued from page 12 museum includes a passenger shed, tower, artifacts, and the National Railroad Historical Society Research Library. There are permanent exhibits, artifacts, and a new Chessie System caboose arrives this spring. Perhaps the best thing about the location is the trainspotting as Amtrak trains speed by.

Lynchburg Museum Lynchburg, Va. lynchburgmuseum.org, 434-455-6226 Lynchburg was among the wealthiest cities in America at the start of the Civil War, in part because it was served by three railroads. The railroads made Lynchburg a strategic Confederate supply and hospital base and helped Lynchburg’s economy recover more rapidly than most Southern cities after the Civil War. The Lynchburg Museum opens a new exhibit this month examining the city’s rail heritage with items from its collection as well as from other museums and photographs from the O. Winston Link Museum in Roanoke. There will also be a section of operational model layouts.

Today, Lynchburg is an active Amtrak stop on the Crescent service to New Orleans and an origination point for the Northeast Regional service to Boston.

Railroaders Memorial Museum Altoona, Pa. railroadcity.com, 814-946-0834 By 1945, the Pennsylvania Railroad’s facilities at Altoona had become the world’s largest rail shop complex. The Railroaders Memorial Museum cel-

Steam trains chug up the mountain at West Virginia’s Cass Railroad State Park. ebrates the contributions of railroaders and their families to American life and the Industrial Revolution.

There are two films shown each hour, and there is an online “call board” where you can check on family members who may have worked on the railroad.

Visitors can also visit Horseshoe Curve, an engineering marvel which opened in 1854, and see some of the 50 trains that use the tracks daily. A visitor center has exhibits on engineering and con-

structing the curve. The funicular, an incline plane, takes you from the visitor center up to the train tracks.

See story on page 9.

O. Winston Link Museum Roanoke, Va. linkmuseum.org, 540-982-5465 The museum exhibits more than 300 photocontinued on page 16

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p ennsy lv ania I staf f

Six reasons to consider RV camping in Pennsylvania Do you long to get back to the peace and beauty of nature? Have you ever considered camping, but didn’t think backpacking or roughing it was your thing? Consider RV camping in one of Pennsylvania’s more than 500 campgrounds, which offer more than 50,000 campsites.

Here are six reasons to enjoy camping or RVing in Pennsylvania: 1. The lure of the outdoors Magic moments happen when you visit mountains, beaches, and lakes, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery from your campsite. Escape stress, explore nature, and see the countryside. With new sport-utility travel trailers and motorhomes, RV travelers can easily bring their ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles, or other outdoor vehicles along.

2. Freedom to pursue your passions Time spent camping or RVing allows you to slow down. Leave the television, telephones, and computers behind so you can focus on your dreams or on one another. Escape the routine of the everyday world through rest and relaxation, recharge your batteries, and see nature’s beauty. Camping and RVing gives you the flexibility to pursue what you want, where you want, and how you want. Experience a fun vacation unlike any other.

Railroading continued from page 15 graphs by Link, who documented the last days of steam on the Norfolk and Western Railroad, and features a film plus changing exhibits by other

3. Quality family time Survey after survey shows that an RV is the best way to travel with kids. Once you hit the road, you will find time to focus on family. Campfires, watching the sun rise, and counting the stars will become memories that last a lifetime. Families who frequently vacation by RV or tent say it fosters an increased sense of togetherness and helps improve family communication. Go camping and RVing to rediscover your family.

4. Good old-fashioned fun Everyone has fun when you build a campfire, toast marshmallows, laugh, talk, and spin a few yarns. Camping is enjoying fresh air and just experiencing good old country living. Children’s imaginations can open up and take on a whole new dimension when they leave the toys of home behind and use those resources around them to create their fun.

The campgrounds of Pennsylvania offer many activities for the entire family, so there is a campground offering the kind of fun you are looking for.

All campgrounds publish recreational schedules, which include activities for the entire family.

5. It’s your home away from home When you camp or RV, you don’t have to worry about a place to stay — home is where you park it.

photographers. Open daily, it is located in the Roanoke Valley Visitors Center.

TROLLEY MUSEUMS National Capital Trolley Museum Colesville, Md. dctrolley.org, 301-384-6088 Operating weekends year-round, the museum offers rides on some of its collection of historic Washington, D.C., American, and international trolleys. See much of the collection in Streetcar Hall.

You’ll also see exhibits on the development that followed streetcar lines out from Washington, electric innovations fostered by streetcars, and films in the theater.

Rockhill Trolley Museum Rockhill Furnace, Pa. rockhilltrolley.org, 610-428-7200, 814-447-9576 The season runs Saturdays and Sundays, Memorial Day–October, with special events beginning with Easter. There’s an international collection of trolleys, dating to the late 19th century, plus work vehicles like snow sweepers. An all-day adult ride ticket is $8.

Electric City Trolley Museum Scranton, Pa. ectma.org, 570-963-6590 The trolley museum is open daily on the grounds of the Steamtown National Historic Site.

Excursion rides are also offered, beginning April 28, Thursdays–Sundays.

The route parallels Roaring Brook, passes his-

16 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

Enjoy sleeping in your own bed and cooking your own food, if you like. You have the freedom to pick up and go at a moment’s notice because your RV is all packed and ready to go. You can even bring your dog.

6. It’s affordable RVing and camping vacations are more affordable than travel by personal car, commercial airlines, or cruise ships. Even factoring in RV ownership costs and considering resulting tax benefits, a family of four can spend up to 70 percent less when traveling by RV. Even if you want to stay put, nearly all campgrounds have seasonal discount rates, so you’re no longer vacationing just once a year; you now have a getaway haven at an affordable price.

Across the nation, there are 9 million RVs on the road with an estimated 25 million Americans traveling in them. The average RV owner plans to use his RV 40 days a year, logs approximately 2,900 miles, and visit five states and nine campgrounds.

Want to find out more? Get the annual PCOA Campground Directory with details on Pennsylvania campgrounds and other helpful information.

Visit pacamping.com, where each area overview includes breathtaking video.

toric iron furnaces, and goes through the Crown Avenue Tunnel, one of the longest inter-urban tunnels ever built.

There are numerous historic trolleys, many used in the excursions, on display.

Baltimore Streetcar Museum Baltimore, Md. baltimorestreetcar.org The museum is open Sundays, March–December, beginning March 6, and Saturdays, June–October. Most of the dozen trolleys are used for the rides offered at the museum.

MODEL RAILROAD ATTRACTIONS National Toy Train Museum Strasburg, Pa. nttmuseum.org, 717-687-8976 The schedule varies seasonally March–December, beginning with Easter weekend and increasing to daily for June, July, and August. The museum re-creates a family train room, but on a much larger scale with five operating layouts in different gauges. It contains one of the most extensive toy train collections in the world, dating from the mid-1800s to the present. You’ll also see trains that children pushed, pulled, or rode upon.

Choo Choo Barn Strasburg, Pa. choochoobarn.com, 717-687-7911 Open daily March–Dec. 19, the 1,700-squarecontinued on page 39

www.PAcamping.com

DISCOVER YOUR OUTDOOR MOMENTS Blue Rocks Family Campground

Campers Paradise Campground & Cabins

Enjoy family fun and the beautiful PA outdoors! We offer activities (and a pool!) to thrill campers of all ages, and our miles of hiking trails and breathtaking Blue Rocks boulder field will satisfy even the biggest outdoor enthusiasts. We can’t wait to see ya!

Beautiful wooded RV & tent sites bordering Clear Creek State Forest. Summer fun with themed weekend activities, playground, hiking trails & pool.

Lenhartsville, PA (610) 756-6366 www.bluerockscampground.com

Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA Completely wooded family campground located in Historical Gettysburg PA. From Primitive Tent sites to Deluxe 50 Amp Patio Sites, Cabins, Fully Equipped Cottages, Heated Swimming Pool, Camp Store, MiniGolf, Gem Mine, Camp K9 Dog Park, Playground, Jump Pad, Fun Bike Rentals.

Come for the History, Stay for the Fun!!

Gettysburg, PA (717) 642-5713 www.gettysburgkoa.net

Enjoy winter relaxation in front of your fireplace or your own private hot tub after a day of X country skiing.

Sigel, PA (814) 752-2393 www.campersparadise.net

Granite Hill Camping Resort Home of the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival, features 300 campsites on 150 acres. With great facilities built for fun & family campers experience incredible camping & make lifelong memories! Enjoy: Tent Sites, RV sites, 50 AMP, Cable TV, Wi-Fi, Cabins, B&B, Horseshoes, Adventure Golf, Swimming Pool, Boats, Playgrounds, Fishing, Basketball, Shuffleboard, Volleyball, Arcade, & Café!

Gettysburg, PA (717) 642-8749 www.granitehillcampingresort.com

Otter Lake Camping Resort

Pioneer Campground

Fully Equipped wooded campsites - 60 acre lake - fishing- no fishing license is required Boating - Indoor Pool with Sauna & 2 whirlpools - Outdoor Pool Kiddies Pool & Splash pad - Lighted Ball field - 4 tennis courts - 2 racquetball courts - Basketball court - Seasonal planned activities, including Archery & Ceramics - camp store

Award winning campground in the Endless Mountains of Pennsylvania with large wooded sites, rustic cabins and furnished cottages. We are kid and pet friendly with planned activities most weekends May through October. This is the place where you want to be, not where you have to be!

East Stroudsburg, PA (570) 223-0123 www.otterlake.com

Western Village RV Park Celebrating 48 years of Family Camping in Central PA! Conveniently located 2 miles from I-81, 8 miles from the Pennsylvania Turnpike, 3.5 miles from the world famous Car Shows, and to nearby attractions in Hershey, Gettysburg, Lancaster and York.

235 sites with pool, jumping pillow, minigolf, cabins and much more!

Carlisle, PA (717) 243-1179 www.westernvillagervpark.com

Muncy Valley, PA (570) 946-9971 www.pioneercampground.com

Wildwood Family Campground Nestled in the Scenic Tuscarora Mountains in central PA. Very clean and quiet, well maintained Campground. 100 Extra large sites with full hook ups & WIFI. New private bathrooms. Experience a peaceful weekend GETA-WAY. Seasonal`s only $1500! Cozy Cabins • Golf cart rentals • Miles of trails • Swimming • Boating • Fishing and more!

East Waterford, PA (717) 734-3656 www.wildwoodfamilycampground.net

Delaware Water GapPocono Mountain KOA Open all year in the Pocono Mountains.

Family activities, bike rentals, playground, mini-golf, heated pool & more. Close to Bushkill Falls, canoeing, fishing, skiing, shopping, golf, hiking, river. Driving distance to NYC & Philly. Pet area, store, WIFI, Tent, RV & Cabins.

East Stroudsburg, PA (570) 223-8000 www.poconokoa.com

Keen Lake Camping and Cottage Resort

Don Laine Campground Located in the Poconos of Northeast Pennsylvania, and just minutes from Beltzville State Park, features family camping at its best with numerous sites.

Large swimming pool, nature trails, and great weekend activities guarantee fun for the entire family.

Palmerton, PA (800) 635-0152 www.donlaine.com

Mountain Vista Campground

Pack up the family & pets for a fun-filled stay at our family-owned, award-winning resort, on a 90-acre Pocono Mountain lake. Swim, Boat, Fish, Pet Beach. Guest Review A, Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.

TL 9/10*/10

Nestled in the Scenic Pocono Mountains of Northeastern PA. Minutes from the Delaware Water Gap and 1-1⁄2 hours from New York and Philadelphia. Escape to our small forest located in the rolling hills of the Poconos. Wooded camp sites accommodating all types of camping families.

Waymart, PA (800) 443 0412 www.keenlake.com

East Stroudsburg, PA (570) 223-0111 www.mtnvistacampground.com

Presque Isle Passage RV Park

Splash Magic Campground

Just 500 feet from I-90, Exit 18, located near the shores of Lake Erie. RV Sites • Water, Electric, Sewer, Cable TV & WI-FI • Cabin & RV Rental Units • RV Supplies, Store, Gifts • Two Bathhouses • Laundromat • Game Room Fairview, PA (814) 833-3272 www.presqueislepassage.com

We are Central PA’s premier family campground! Our Splash Park highlights a wealth of activities the whole family will enjoy, and our multiple cabins and cottages guarantee the perfect experience for campers of all kinds. Everything you want for the perfect camping trip is at Splash Magic Campground!

Northumberland, PA (800) 243-1056 www.splashmagic.com

Williamsport South/Nittany Mountain KOA

Yogi Bear Mill Run

Fun family camping in the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley. Swimming & Wading Pools, Camp Store, Jumping Pillow, Bike & Golf Cart Rentals, Kamp K9 Dog Park, Playground. Spacious campsites, Rental Cabins, Full Service Cottages & Lodge. 50amp Patio Pull thru sites, Theme Weekends.

Wooded Campground nestled in the Laurel Highlands. Pirates Lagoon • Hurricane Mountain • 2 heated pools • spray zones • snowless snow tubing • mini golf • fishing • movies • game room • restaurant • paintball • carousel • train and picnic basket rides • planned activities • cabin and RV rentals • 4x4 scenic adventure ride.

New Columbia, PA (800) 562-4208 www.nittanymountainkoa.com

Mill Run, PA (800) HEY-YOGI www.jellystonemillrun.com

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coastal v irginia I martha steg er

Check out Tidewater’s arts, brews, marathon, and gardens The diversity of attractions and activities we found in Coastal Virginia sent members of the Eastern Chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers home with an impressive list of things to write about after meeting there last summer. No matter the interest, Coastal Virginia has a story to tell. That means it’s also a great

place to explore on a long weekend or a longer vacation.

NEON: New Energy of Norfolk Neon, we learned, has more than one meaning in Norfolk. After watching two female glassblowers transform fire, sand, and metal into glass

H amp ton T ou rism

Take a tour of Hampton Roads aboard the Miss Hampton II.

COME FACE-TO-FACE WITH ADVENTURE.

A city with an old soul and youthful enthusiasm, Hampton has been home to unique characters and an adventurous spirit for over 400 years. Discover the attractions, the history and the unique flavor that makes Hampton a city you will want to visit again and again.

800.800.2202 VisitHampton.com

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shapes at the Chrysler Museum of Art’s Glass Studio, I decided glassblowing was a good metaphor for Norfolk — an ever-evolving city continuing to transform itself into a hip, vibrant destination. Arts supporters have created the NEON Arts District along a stretch of Granby Street just north of Brambleton Avenue, complete with galleries, murals, live performances, and pop-up retail.

Artisans and talented, ambitious chefs, brewmasters, and an urban winemaker are benefiting from each other’s efforts.

As a central Virginian, I’ve checked out restaurants out of necessity when I’ve been to new exhibits at Nauticus or events at the Virginia Arts Festival. But, Norfolk’s culinary scene is no longer a side dish to the city’s entrée of attractions — it has become an attraction in itself. A foodie tour offered by Coastal Food Tours is a good way to combine cultural sightseeing — especially the city’s contrasting architectural styles — with a farm-to-table experience; the company’s beer-and-wine tour features two breweries and one winery, and small plates can be enjoyed while chatting with the hosts.

Insider tip: Visitors wishing to extend their gastronomic tour to a multi-day regional experience, including Hampton, Jamestown, Yorktown, Smithfield, the Eastern Shore, and other destinations, can find information at coastalfoodtours.com.

A sample of restaurants to try on your own might include St. Germain, where in-house charcuterie shines; Field Guide, with long, communal tables and a garage door lifted in good weather for open-air dining;

Chartreuse Bistro, where a daily changing menu reflects the owners’ commitment to local, organic farms; Supper, offering updated versions of Southern fare; Green House Kitchen, with an Italian menu also available for pickup or delivery; and LeGrand Kitchen, combining food with rock ‘n’ roll as a nod to LeGrand Records, the mid-20th-century Norfolk record label.

One City Marathon celebrates Newport News If the 17th-century captain Christopher Newport, for whom Newport News is named, was to return to his namesake on the Virginia peninsula this spring, he’d discover it’s as robust and vigorous as he was.

This year is the 25th anniversary of the Mariners’ Museum’s Noland Trail, a community treasure for activity, and the 15th anniversary of the annual Battle of Hampton Roads Weekend, March 5–6, with reenactment camps, cannon firing, and even Abraham Lincoln.

New to the event this year is Friday night’s Sip & Sculpt, where guests can enjoy libations while creating their own iron-cast molds, which will be transformed into art during iron-pour demonstrations throughout the weekend. Returning is the popular History Bites foodtasting event, with restaurants’ interpretations of 19th-century dishes; and, in its second year, the Civil War-themed beard competition, where participants literally face-off with their best impression of a famous beard.

The Newport News One City Marathon, the peninsula’s first full marathon, takes place on March 15, covering the city’s entire 26-mile length. “The geography of the city is ideal for a marathon,� says city manager James M. Bourey, who’s been a runner for 42 years. Participants will run along the James River, past museums and businesses, and through neighborhoods and the campus of Christopher Newport University.

An 8K run/walk, a kids’ fun run, and a health and wellness expo round out the marathon’s schedule. (onecitymarathon.com)

Historic Garden Week in Hampton will be a day to remember, especially as Fort Monroe is on the tour for the first time since the historic homes and gardens tours began in 1929.

The largest stone fort ever constructed in the United States, Fort Monroe was named to honor President James Monroe.

With 8 miles of spectacular waterfront and buildings whose rooms have entertained many U.S. presidents, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2011.

N ewp ort N ews T ou rism

April brings cruises, Garden Week to Hampton The popular seasonal Miss Hampton II cruises begin in mid-April, just in time for the April 22–24 “AirPower Over Hampton Roads� event.

The free show will feature aircraft ranging from vintage planes to the latest and most powerful fighter jets.

Families will enjoy aircraft tours and photo opportunities with civilian aerobatics and military demonstrations, as well as children’s entertainment. (langleyairshow. com) On April 27, Virginia

The grounds, streetscapes, gardens, and homes of the former U.S. Army post tell a story of bygone military life and allow visitors to experience the ongoing revitalization of a national treasure.

Each staff officer’s residence exhibits unique architectural character, such as sweeping porches, detailed mantelpieces, and mature landscapes. (vagardenweek.org)

Before you go Hampton Tourism: visithampton.com Newport News Tourism: newport-news.org Norfolk Tourism: visitnorfolktoday.com

r 4JY 4VQFS TJ[FE "OJNBUSPOJD #VHT r -JWF *OTFDU &YIJCJUT r 8FFLFOE -JWF "OJNBM 1SPHSBNT r -BSHF *OWFSUFCSBUF 1IPUPHSBQIZ A 50th Anniversary Exhibit Newport News I-64, Exit 258A 757-595-1900 thevlm.org

Newport News presents its second One City Marathon and related races and events on March 9

Ships,History Great Outdoors AND

THE

Adventure-seekers, foodies and art lovers revel in Norfolk’s eclectic neighborhoods, thought-provoking museums and flourishing creative scene. From charter fishing, sailing and harbor cruises to live music, performing arts and history, there are so many things to see and do in Norfolk. The possibilities are endless.

Victory Arch

Ferguson Center for the Arts

1-800-368-3097 | visitnorfolktoday.com

The Mariners’ Museum Virginia Living Museum

888.493.7386 newport-news.org

This & more!

Plus Williamsburg & Virginia Beach.

recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 19

v irginia I reed hel l man

Virginia’s coast draws birders for the annual spring migration E astern S hore T ou rism

Wildlife refuges and other sites are great places to see the annual spring migration along the Atlantic Flyway.

In Virginia’s coastal plain, spring starts blossoming in mid-March. Clouds of shorebirds and long strings of waterfowl join neotropical warblers and flights of other upland species migrating north along the Atlantic Coast Flyway.

From Chesapeake and Suffolk, across the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay to Virginia’s portion of Delmarva, springtime also draws flocks of birders to watch one of nature’s great migratory events.

Springtime birders visit the Chesapeake Bay area for a chance to see the rare American pipit, mourning warbler, and nearly three dozen other species of neotropical warblers. A 2-mile footpath through Bells Mill Park in Chesapeake, Va., traverses a prime birding area with an elevated scenic river overlook. The South Chesapeake Loop, part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, meanders through Oak Grove Lake Park, Northwest River Park, Chesapeake Arboretum, and other productive birding spots.

The flocks also come to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge,

the largest intact remnant of a once-vast wetlands and forest habitat that covered much of Virginia’s southern Tidewater.

More than 200 species of birds nest in or near the 111,200-acre refuge, and almost half migrate. Spring migration offers opportunities to see several rare species, particularly the warblers, and reaches its peak from April to June with the greatest diversity.

Serious bird watchers may catch sight of the Swainson’s and Wayne’s warblers, two of the most secretive and least-observed of all North American birds, or listen for the “peep” of the white-throated sparrow.

The refuge also holds great egrets, bald eagles, wood ducks, barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, and prothonotary warblers.

Find rewarding birding throughout the refuge, but pay particular attention to the 8-mile Dismal Swamp Canal Trail and the Washington Ditch and Jericho Ditch trails.

Schedule guided birding trips for individuals or groups by calling 757-986-3705 or visiting fws.gov/refuge/great_dismal_ swamp.

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wild-

ISN’T IT TIME FOR A LITTLE

U.O.U.

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life Refuge holds its annual Birding Festival, a part of International Migratory Bird Day, April 21–23.

Open to the public, the festival offers family-fun activities, guided bird walks, owl prowls, bus tours, and photography workshops.

Across the bay

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point. click. escape!

Many migrators make the 20-mile over-water flight across the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, making landfall at Cape Charles, the southern tip of the Delmarva Peninsula. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, which links Hampton Roads with Virginia’s Eastern Shore, offers two points along the Virginia Birding Trail, one along the route and the other at the eastern overlook. Individual birders can take advantage of the fishing pier area or groups can get a permit for an security-escorted stop on one of the man-made islands. The bridgetunnel is also a field trip during the Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival. (cbbt.com/activities/ birding) The nearby Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge has interpretive events throughout the year, including a May weekend celebrating International Migratory Bird Day. The refuge is also a primary site for the October Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival. (fws.gov/refuge/easternshore-of-virginia) Neighboring Kiptopeake State Park also offers wildlife and birding trails and a series of Owl Prowl and wildlife hikes in March. In addition to campsites and beach access, overnight visitors can rent a yurt for more of a glamping experience.

Rent a bike and explore the Raptor, Songbird, Chickadee and Mockingbird trails. Kiptopeake is also a venue for the fall birding and wildlife event. (dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks)

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A bit to the north, Chincoteague Island offers an ideal venue for birdwatchers to witness the spring flocks. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is the local hot spot for spring migration birding.

Because of its position on the Atlantic Flyway, the refuge is ideal for birds to rest and feed. Thousands of brant, geese, and ducks winter on the refuge, adding to the mass of shorebirds and waterfowl going north.

The refuge’s habitats provide nesting for 90 avian species. However, during migration, a diligent birder can spot some 250 species. More than 7 miles of trails, most designated for walking and bicycling, reach all of the refuge’s ecotypes. In some of the more remote areas, a careful approach can take a birder close enough to hear the wind whistle through the wings of a goose flying just overhead.

Swan Cove Pool, along the Beach Road, and the Snow Goose Pool, in the Wildlife Loop, are popu-

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lar spots to see numerous species. The Wildlife Loop offers numerous opportunities to observe wildlife, especially waterfowl and wading birds.

Open only for walkers and bikers throughout the day, vehicles can drive the loop from 3:00pm until dusk. Visitors may also borrow binoculars, free of charge, from the refuge’s visitor center.

The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge hosts an International Migratory Bird Celebration on Mother’s Day weekend, May 14, the peak of spring migration. The event focuses on familyfriendly activities including building birdhouses and enjoying guided walks. (fws.gov/refuge/ chincoteague)

March 25 & 26, 2016

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What’s brewing along Nelson County’s Brew Ridge Trail?

With four breweries of its own and two more within sugar-borrowing distance, Nelson County, Va., offers lots of options for memorable sampling.

This central Virginia area, south of Charlottesville, has been drawing people who love craft beer like bears to honey.

In fact, local honey figures into the ingredient list of a brand-new brew featured during the area’s Brew Ridge Trail Brew Week, March 14–20. It’s a “collaboration beer,” a dark, spicy Belgian quad made with special ingredients from each of the five breweries. The beer, named “Too Many Cooks,” will be on tap at South Street Brewery, Devils Backbone, and Blue Mountain Brewery and available at several other locations during Brew Week.

The ale is being brewed at South Street Brewery, where co-owner Taylor Smack says: “It’s a fun beer because it lends itself to the addition of so many different ingredients — spices, herbs, and fermentables that aren’t part of a ‘normal’ beer’s recipe.”

Besides honey, local breweries contributed Belgian “candi sugar” made from sugar beets, dark German malts, Slovenian hops, star anise, and orange peel. The beer tops out at 13 percent alcohol. It was fermented with yeast from the Rochefort Trappist monastery brewery and it will be on tap at South Street, Blue Mountain, and Devils Back-

bone, as well as several other locations featuring local craft beers.

Along the trail No matter when you visit, the self-guided Brew Ridge Trail (brewridgetrail.com) guides you to five distinctive breweries.

The route winds through pretty Blue Ridge scenery from Afton, home of Blue Mountain Brewery, south along Route 151 to Wild Wolf Brewing Company in Nellysford and Devils Backbone Brewing Company in Wintergreen. Then, beer aficionados can swing north to visit the Starr Hill Brewery in Crozet and South Street Brewery in downtown Charlottesville.

Insider tip: Special deals, music, competitions, or happy hours are offered by various breweries every day of the week, and four of the breweries operate full-service restaurants with outstanding offerings equal to the quality of their ales. Devils Backbone is hosting two major bicycle rides, as well as free camping for participants, May 14–15.

Each brewery has its own character. Devils Backbone has been created of rustic salvaged materials and includes a rebuilt, historic train depot for outdoor refreshment. South Street Brewery embraces the urban scene in a brick warehouse in downtown Charlottesville, where a long copper

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bar fills up with patrons every evening.

But beer isn’t the only Nelson County beverage filling glasses and visitors’ need for a homegrown, crisp taste — the newest is hard cider.

Nelson County produces Albemarle Pippins, Winesaps, Grimes, and other tart apples perfect for cider-making. Bold Rock Hard Cider, near Wintergreen Resort, has been growing by leaps and bounds. The company recently completed a $4 million cider barn to triple production and provide light dining to complement the tasting experience.

With 10 wineries and four distilleries up or in the works, you’re seldom far from an excellent beer, wine, or spirit in Nelson County. Some visitors begin at Afton Mountain Vineyards, where wine is stored in a cave, then charge on to Silverback Distillery, where premium vodka, gin, whiskey, and bourbon are the fare. Mountain Cove, with grand views, is Virginia’s oldest winery.

For those who want to stay in western Nelson County, there’s the spanking-new Rockfish Inn on Route 151 along the brew trail. This country lodge features quiet European ductless heating and airconditioning in every room, as well as Wi-Fi and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge.

For more information Nelson Co. Tourism: nelsoncounty-va.gov

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Arts Fest leaps into 20th season “Let’s dance,” urges the David Bowie song of the same name, and that is just what’s in store when the Virginia Arts Festival kicks off the first performances of its 20th anniversary season.

The Spring for Dance Gala, April 9–10 at Norfolk’s Chrysler Hall, will feature dancers from around the world. With styles ranging from classical ballet to modern dance, participating companies include American Ballet Theatre, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Lula Washington Dance Theatre, Mark Morris Dance Group, Richard Alston Dance Company, Richmond Ballet, and — a festival newcomer — Tokyo Ballet. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra will accompany the performances.

In addition, Dance Theatre of Harlem will present the world premiere of a new work, commissioned by the festival for its anniversary, on May 14–15.

But, dance is just one of the performing arts scheduled to be on view during the festival.

The event will bring together an extraordinary collection of worldclass performing artists in the fields of music and theater, as well, to the Hampton Roads region of southeastern Virginia. Venues range from large concert halls and theaters to smaller venues in churches, schools, and community centers, as well as outdoor events in streets and parks.

There’s a mix of more than 50 ticketed and free events occurring over several months.

“We are using the whole year to celebrate Virginia Art Festival’s 20th season,” said the festival’s Rob Cross. “Throughout the 2016 season we will welcome back artists who have become very special to the festival and we will present many new artists, new productions, and definitely some surprises.”

A series of preseason “Celebrate” performances included the Vienna Boys Choir, violinist Joshua Bell, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Coming up on March 15 is the Irish group The Chieftains.

The official festival opening takes place April 8, with a free outdoor event scheduled for outside MacArthur Center in Norfolk.

What’s on tap The festival attracts a diverse array of performers, ranging from classical music cellist Yo-Yo Ma and virtuoso pianist Emanuel Ax on April 12 to best-selling R&B group Boyz II

Men on May 22.

Also performing will be the Venice Baroque Orchestra, pianist Yuja Wang, the swing band Hot Sardines, the Afro-Cuban All Stars, and The Texas Tenors, stars of TV’s America’s Got Talent.

A special treat on April 16 will be a fully staged production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, presented by the Virginia Stage Company.

A “Fringe Festival,” April 28–May 1, will showcase performances in the Norfolk Arts District.

The ever-popular Virginia International Tattoo — the festival’s signature event — will be April 21–24 at Norfolk’s Scope Arena. The spectacular show features 1,500 musicians, performers, and military men and women from 10 nations in what is considered the largest patriotic music display in the United States.

The American Bus Association voted the Tattoo as the No. 1 U.S. event in its Top 100 Events in North America listing for 2016.

A jazz series and coffee concerts are among other highlights during the season. Festival Williamsburg, normally a part of the arts festival, has been moved to June.

V I R G I N I A

A R T S

F E S T I VA L

A showcase of dancers from the world’s greatest companies!

SPRING FOR DANCE GALA WITH VIRGINIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA APRIL 9-10

Dazzling family fun!

PEKINGAPRIL ACROBATS 11 Lagrest military music display in the U.S.!

Celebrating an anniversary “The festival’s 20th anniversary season looks back with pride, and forward to the future,” said Cross.

The event has flourished since its inception in 1997. The first season was 18 days long and drew 30,000 patrons. More than 60,000 visitors are expected this year, with 27 percent traveling from outside Hampton Roads.

Besides bringing top performing arts to the public, the nonprofit organization has commissioned innovative works of national and international significance, presented numerous U.S. and regional premieres of new works, sponsored farreaching arts education programs for students, and had an economic impact of $17 million per year through cultural tourism.

“The festival is able to attract artists from around the world due to Virginia Arts Festival’s reputation and success over the past 20 years,” said Cross.

To see the 2016 season’s entire schedule and profiles of the artists, visit vafest.org. Tickets may be purchased through the website or by calling the box office at 757-2822822.

VIRGINIA INTERNATIONAL TATTOO APRIL 21-24 Mother’s Day Special!

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FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Through March 1. The Bridges to the World Film Festival features five films from five countries in five weeks. The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, Bowie, Md. 301-805-6880, bowiecenter.org RICHMOND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL March 3–6. More than 120 cutting edge films, industry panels, musical entertainment, and mixers. Venues include the historic Byrd Theater.

Richmond, Va. rvafilmfesetival.com

March 2016 March 17 - St. Patrick’s Day March 27 - Easter

HOLIDAYS

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE March 12, 11:00am. A huge parade and the Shamrock Festival. Jefferson Street to Campbell Avenue, Roanoke, Va. visitroanokeva.com/events ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE March 12. Come out and enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day parade with all your friends and family. Downtown Indiana, Pa. downtownindiana.org ST. PATTY’S DAY PARTY March 15. Concord Point Light Keeper’s Irish Heritage with Irish food, music, raffles, and prizes. Havre de Grace, Md. 410-939-3213, vandiverinn.com MARYLAND DAY CELEBRATION March 18–20. Rediscover Maryland’s history with family and friends during a fun-filled festival highlighting the uniqueness of the Four Rivers Heritage Area. Local cultural and heritage sites offer special activities and tours. Sites throughout the Four Rivers Heritage Area, Md. 410-2221805, marylandday.org EASTER EGG ROLL March 26, 11:00am–4:00pm. Bring a basket and enjoy the Easter Bunny, games, prizes, crafts, animals, pony and hay rides, and food. The Children’s Museum of Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2936, recreater.com

WASHINGTON ANTIQUARIAN BOOK FAIR March 4–5. Exhibitors from around the country will convene, offering both serious collectors and budding enthusiasts rare books, manuscripts, modern first editions, autographs, prints, maps, drawings, and other rare finds. Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge, 1900 N. Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, Va. wabf.com HAMPTON ROADS TATTOO FESTIVAL March 4–6. Hundreds of tattoo artists, vendors, and live music all weekend. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Va. 757-484-1319, hrtattoofest.com GROW YOUR HEALTH FESTIVAL March 5, 9:00am–5:30pm. The festival presents 60 exhibitors plus learning opportunities and more for home gardening, sourcing organic and local food, and nutrition and wellness for adults and children. Fairfax High School, Fairfax, Va. growyourhealthnova.com SPRING CLASSIC ART AND CRAFT FESTIVAL March 5–6, 11. Features hundreds of talented artists and craftspeople from across North America. See the creative process in action as many demonstrate throughout the show. 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, Va. 336-282-5550, gilmoreshows.com ANNAPOLIS IRISH WEEK March 6–17. The celebration kicks off with an Irish parade, complete with Irish pipe bands, on March 6 at 1:00pm. Other festivities include a Hooley (Irish party), Irish history dinners, Irish coffee competitions, Perfect Pint O’Guinness contests, and Guinness glass engravings. Various locations in downtown Annapolis, Md. 443-822-5871, annapolisirishweek.com WILLIAMSBURG FILM FESTIVAL March 10–12. Daily autograph/photo sessions, star interviews, two movie viewing rooms, big dealers room, and entertainment. Holiday Inn Williamsburg Patriot Convention Center, 3032 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, Va. 757-646-4006, williamsburgfilmfestival.org WILMFILM FESTIVAL March 10–12. The city’s annual film festival showcases “movies that matter” with more than 30 screenings of independent, foreign, and documentary films, as well as “Delaware shorts,” at Penn Cinema IMAX Riverfront. Wilmington, Del. wilmfilm.com

IRISH SPRING FESTIVAL March 12, 11:00am–6:00pm. A celebration of St. Patrick’s Day featuring face painting, Irish music, Irish dancers, 50 food and craft vendors, pot of gold raffle, kiss the blarney stone, best costume contest, and a beer garden. Front Royal Fire Department, 221 N. Commerce Ave., Front Royal, Va. 703-963-4064, irishspringfest.com PATUXENT REFUGE SYSTEM BIRTHDAY March 12, 10:00am–3:00pm. The day includes live animals, children’s activities, crafts, and wildlife habitat tram tours. Patuxent National Wildlife Visitor Center, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Court, Laurel, Md. 301-497-5776, fws.gov/refuge/patuxent THE HIGHLAND MAPLE FESTIVAL March 12–13, 19–20. Highlights of the festival include buckwheat and pancake breakfasts, maple donuts, locally harvested trout dinners, antiques, arts and crafts, bluegrass music, and clogging demonstrations.

Spruce Street, Monterey, Va. 540-468-2550, highlandcounty.org ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL March 15–26. The festival will present 130-plus films selected to provide fresh perspectives on a wide variety of environmental issues facing the earth. Venues around Washington, D.C. 202-342-2564, dceff.org AMERICANA FESTIVAL March 18–19. Offering all the excitement of an outdoor music festival, plus cuisine from chef Bryan Voltaggio. Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org BETHESDA FILM FEST March 18–19. The festival showcases work of local documentary filmmakers. Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, Md. 301-2156660, imaginationstage.org EASTERN SHORE FOLK FESTIVAL March 19. Join the museum for an afternoon of activities and presentations celebrating the culture of Maryland’s Eastern Shore region. Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture, 830 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. 443-263-1875, lewismuseum.org CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL March 20–April 17. Events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Washington, D.C. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org LIGHT CITY BALTIMORE March 28–April 3. The first large-scale light festival in the United States featuring art, music, and innovation programming. Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Md. 410-752-8632, lightcity.org ANNAPOLIS FILM FESTIVAL March 31–April 3. There will be more than 65 narrative and documentary films in all genres. Citywide in Annapolis, Md. 410-263-3444, annapolisfilmfestival.com

SPINOSAURUS: LOST GIANT OF THE CRETACEOUS Nizar Ibrahim, Paleontologist

Art: Davide Bonadonna

National Geographic Emerging Explorer, 2015 TED Fellow

Nizar

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Nizar Ibrahim will share his exploration and ultimate reconstruction of a full skeletal model of Spinosaurus—the largest predatory dinosaur yet discovered. With amazing video recreating the lost world of the Cretaceous Era Sahara, Ibrahim will tell the story of Spinosaurus’ discovery, loss, and rediscovery, and explain what—other than its size—makes this ancient monster unique.

APRIL 7 | 7:30 PM AMOSS CENTER Offer must be redeemed online at

LIVEatHarfordCC.com Enter ticket code “FOSSIL” at checkout to receive discount.

Reserved Seating: $15-$40 Sponsored by Harford County Public Library and Harford Community College Student Services

Offer valid through April 6, 2016. This offer is only available for online purchase of any remaining seat to the performance listed onthis flyer. Not valid on previous purchases.

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MUSIC

NOW SHOWING RICHMOND HOME AND GARDEN SHOW March 4–6. Nearly 300 companies showcase the latest products and services for the home. 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, Va. 804-748-7469, richmondhomeandgarden.com

Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral WELL-STRUNG SINGING STRING QUARTET March 3. Hunky all-male singing string quartet putting an amped-up classical spin on everything from Rihanna to Adele to Lorde. Frostburg State University, Frostburg, Md. 301-687-3137, ces.frostburg.edu

BRIDAL EXPO March 5. Visit officiants, photographers, bakers, salons, and DJs. Ripken Stadium, 873 Long Drive, Aberdeen, Md. 410-297-9292

METROPOLITAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA March 5, 8:00pm. This illustrious jazz orchestra is joined by featured steel pan virtuoso Victor Provost, a member of the Grammy Awardwinning Afro Bop Alliance. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, Va. 888-945-2468, cfa.gmu.edu

DELMARVA KIDS EXPO March 5. Brings together family-friendly businesses, nonprofits, and other community resources in one location. 500 Glen Ave., Salisbury, Md. 410-548-4900, wicomicociviccenter.org

CHAMBER MUSIC March 11–12. Rachmaninoff’s Vespers was one of the most requested works in a recent survey. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, Md. 410-263-1906

BING! BANG! BOOM! SCIENCE SHOW March 9, 10:00am–noon and noon–2:00pm. An explosion of learning that kids in grades kindergarten through eighth can’t resist.

A whole new way for kids to discover science and experience the joy of learning. 201 Market St., Virginia Beach, Va. 757-385-2549, sandlercenter.org

THE FOLGER CONSORT: PLAYING WITH FIRE March 18–20. With viols, violin, wind instruments of all sorts, lute, and percussion. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu

SPRING COIN SHOW March 12. Coins, currency, tokens, and numismatic materials are on display. Buy, sell, or trade and chat with knowledgeable coin dealers. S&T Bank Arena, 497 East Pike, Indiana, Pa. 724-254-2471

Popular/Other THE BUMPER JACKSONS March 3. Join the party with D.C.’s “Best Traditional Folk Band.” Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org

LAKESIDE HALL BRIDAL SHOW March 13. More than 50 wedding vendors ready to make your day special. 14324 Lake Royer Drive, Cascade, Md. 301-241-4050

AN EVENING WITH JOAN BAEZ March 9. The folk music luminary has been a central figure in the nation’s cultural and political life for more than 50 years.

Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org

INDIANA HOME SHOW March 18–20. More than 135 booths with 90 exhibitors displaying ideas on home improvement. S&T Bank Arena, 497 East Pike, Indiana, Pa. 724349-2327 BRIDAL SHOW March 19, 2:00–5:00pm. Attendees will enjoy tours of the entire resort property, including the upscale hotel suites and multiple wedding site options. There will also be a bridal fashion show and chance to win door prizes. Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa, 4160 Mears Ave., Chesapeake Beach, Md. cbresortspa.com

Theater A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Through March 6. Fresh staging of Shakespeare’s timeless romantic tale. Folger Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. folger.edu

SOUTHEASTERN GUNS AND KNIVES SHOW March 19–20. The show carries on the uniquely American tradition of gun shows, striving to bring the best assortment of firearms and related products together for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting.

Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Va. 757-315-1610, guns-knives.com

SOMETHING LIKE JAZZ MUSIC March 2–26. A Single Carrot original production written by artistic director Genevieve DeMahy. Single Carrot Theatre, Baltimore, Md. 443-844-9253, singlecarrot.com

VIRGINIA/ D.C. FRANCHISE EXPO March 19–20. Face-to-face discussions with North America’s hottest franchises, plus proven part-time business opportunities. Dulles Expo Center, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, Va. franchiseshowinfo.com

WILD OATS March 4-27. A Shakespearean actor steals the identity of a sea captain’s son with hilarious results.

Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, Baltimore, Md. chesapeakeshakespeare.com

COIN AND COLLECTIBLES EXPO March 31–April 3. Coin and collectibles spring expo. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St., Baltimore Md. expo.whitman.com/baltimorespring-expo

ANNIE March 15–20. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charnin. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-628-6161, thenationaldc.com

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VERNAL EQUINOX WEEKEND March 19, 7:30–9:00pm. Celebrate the coming of spring with a hike by the light of the moon. Willow Grove Nature Center, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-887-5370, cromwellvalleypark.org

DELAWARE AND THE WAR OF 1812 Ongoing. Designed to raise awareness of the important role that the state played as the front line in the defense of the economically vital Delaware Valley, the exhibit utilizes maps, illustrations, and artifacts from the state’s collections to examine the history of the war within Delaware and its surrounding waters. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, Del. 302-736-7400, history.delaware.gov

BALTIMORE CHORAL ARTS March 20. Music director Tom Hall leads the full Baltimore Choral Arts chorus and orchestra. 1021 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, Md. 410-523-7070, bcasings.org

NATIONAL CAPITAL BOAT SHOW March 11–13. Dulles Expo Center, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, Va. 804-337-6479, gsevents.com

RUNNING WITH THE GATORS 5K/1K March 19. School groups and organizations are encouraged to create teams and collect pledges to benefit their organizations. Perry Hall High School, Nottingham, Md. 410-963-6341, phhsptsa.org

Featured Exhibitions

RICHMOND BLUEGRASS JAM SET March 19. The free, family-friendly event features 30 of the region’s best bluegrass and Americana bands playing on three stages. The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, Richmond, Va. artsglenallen.com

VIRGINIA RV SHOW March 11–13. Great deals on motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. Plus, attend daily seminars to pick up some new info and tips to help with your purchase. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Va. 804-243-8847, gsevents.com

CHERRY BLOSSOMS AND SPRING FLOWERS WALK March 12–May 9. Start/finish point is Starbucks Coffee, 4611 E. Sangamore Road, Bethesda, Md. 301-946-5496, sugarloafers.org

Exhibits

ANNAPOLIS OPERA PRESENTS FAUST March 18–20. This fully staged production presents themes of longing for love, the desire for salvation, and the costs of making a bargain with the devil. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, Md. 410-267-8135, marylandhall.org

FREDERICKSBURG HOME SHOW March 11–12 and 27. About 200 exhibitors will be showcasing their newest and best products to service your house. Just about every facet of the home industry, from basement to roof, inside and outside, will be represented. 2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, Va. 540-5485555, fredericksburgexpocenter.com

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

STEPHEN MILL’S HAMLET March 23–April 3. Set to the spellbinding music of Philip Glass, Hamlet redefines this tragic Shakespeare classic and the limits of dance in a stylish production that presents Hamlet’s internal struggle over avenging his father’s murder. The Washington Ballet, 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. washingtonballet.org

THE MERLING TRIO March 6. A classical piano trio of piano, violin, and cello, The Merling Trio is recognized as one of today’s premier ensembles. 115 J.W. Williams Road, Prince Frederick, Md. 443-550-6011, csmd.edu

MARYLAND HOME AND GARDEN SHOW March 5–6, 11–13. Landscaped gardens brimming with bold and beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs will fill the Maryland State Fairgrounds and inspire visitors to transform their gardens from blank canvases to creative masterpieces. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium, Md. 410-863-1180, mdhomeandgarden.com/spring

ONE CITY MARATHON March 11–13. Starts at Newport News Park; from there, the next 26.2 miles will include the very best Newport News has to offer, finishing at the Victory Arch. 13560 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, Va. 757-880-8843, onecitymarathon.com

Dance BAMBOULA March 12–13. The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble performs a collaborative work based in the Afro-cultural traditions surrounding Mardi Gras. Dance Place, 3225 Eighth St. NE, Washington, D.C. danceplace.org

#RinglingBros

Ringling.com

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THEY ANSWERED THE CALL Wednesdays–Sundays, through March 31. A tribute to the 1940s employees of the Glenn L. Martin Co., saluting the Rosie the Riveters who kept the industry moving when the men went to war. Glenn L. Martin Aviation Museum, Martin State Airport, Middle River, Md. mdairmuseum.org

KONSTANTIN MAKOVSKY: THE TSAR’S PAINTER Through June 12. In the dramatically lit setting, exquisite objects and details from the painting will be brought to life through groupings of 17th-century objects of boyar life. Hillwood Museum, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-686-5807, hillwoodmuseum.org

WHAT’S COOKIN’, MR. BANNEKER? March 26, 1:00–3:00pm. Drop by and chat with costumed interpreters and witness 18th-century cooking techniques at the hearth. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Ave., Oella, Md. 410887-1081

SEVEN CONTEMPORARY CUBAN ARTISTS Through March 10. Featuring some of Cuba’s most acclaimed young artists, the exhibit will showcase a selection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, and installations. Inter-American Development Bank, 1300 New York Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-623-1410, iadb.org/cultural

ART QUILTS Through June 19. These intricate art quilts include examples of works by the foremost proponent of the art quilt, Michael James, whose stunning Metamorphosis plays with color transitions and the transformation of space. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org

BASKET MAKING WORKSHOP March 5. Construct a medium-sized Williamsburg basket. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Ave., Oella, Md. 410-8871081, benjaminbanneker.wordpress.com

THOMAS R. SCHIFF: VIRGINIA 360° Through June 19. Combining Schiff’s passion for photography and his love of architecture, the works on display in this exhibition provide a fresh new perspective for these notable Virginia landmarks. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum

RESCUE PRUNING March 5, 1:30–3:00pm. Join Green Spring’s manager Mary Olien on a walk to learn pruning strategies you can use in your own garden. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-642-5173, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring

MATISSE PRINTS AND DRAWINGS Through July 3. Approximately 20 prints and drawings demonstrate the continuing legacy of the BMA’s relationship with the Matisse family. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443573-1700, artbma.org

MAPLE SUGARING WEEKEND March 5–6. Stop by the center and carve your own spile, tap a tree, and learn how to make syrup at home. Willow Grove Nature Center, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-887-5370, cromwellvalleypark.org

FRAN ABRAMS March 2–27, 5:00–8:00pm. Fran Abrams has been creating sculptural polymer clay artwork that hangs on the wall in the manner of bas relief.

The designs suggest the fluidity of fabric caught at a moment in time.

Foundry Gallery, 2118 Eighth St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-232-0203, foundrygallery.org

MOSAICS: THE ULTIMATE ART OF RECYCLING March 12–13. A two-day workshop in which students will take tile, glass, shells, stones, broken shards, ceramics, non-porous items, and other “castaways” to create mosaics. Art League of OC Center for the Arts, Ocean City, Md. 410-524-9433, artleagueofoceancity.org

RODIN Through March 13. Organized by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Musée Rodin in Paris, this exhibition features more than 200 works by the greatest sculptor of the 19th and early 20th centuries, Auguste Rodin. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804340-1400, vmfa.museum THE SAINT JOHN’S BIBLE Through April 24. This international exhibition features 70 pages of The Saint John’s Bible, the first monumental hand-illuminated bible to be commissioned by a Benedictine monastery in more than 500 years. The Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St., Dover, Del. 302-6742111, biggsmuseum.org JAMIE WYETH RETROSPECTIVE Through April 5. A major retrospective exhibit features six decades of the work of artist Jamie Wyeth. Brandywine River Museum of Art, Route 1, Chadds Ford, Pa. brandywine.org PEANUTS ... NATURALLY Through April 24. The exhibit takes a light-hearted look at Charles Schulz’s exploration of the natural world through Peanuts’ comic strips, videos, objects, and interactive stations. The Bel Air Library, 100 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Bel Air, Md. 410-960-0230, hcplonline.org.

SEEING NATURE: LANDSCAPE MASTERWORKS Through May 8. Featuring 39 masterpieces spanning five centuries, this exhibition draws from the Paul G. Allen Family Collection to explore the evolution of European and American landscape art. The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-387-2151, phillipscollection.org MARYLAND ARTISTS Through May 8. An exhibition of approximately 20 recently acquired artworks by Raoul Middleman, John Waters, and others. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org LOUISE BOURGEOIS: NO EXIT Through May 15. Works in the exhibition, either drawn from the collection or promised to the gallery, reveal Bourgeois’ intensely personal approach to art-making and explore her grounding in surrealism and ties to existentialism. The National Gallery of Art, National Mall between Third and Seventh streets at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 202-737-4215, nga.gov

THE LATINO PRESENCE IN AMERICAN ART March 5–29. This exhibition showcases the rich and varied contributions of Latino artists in the United States since the mid-20th century. Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington, Del. 302-295-2212, visitwilmingtonde.com GOLDEN AGE OF AMERICAN LANDSCAPE PAINTING March 19–June 12. A stunning array of more than 40 paintings by renowned Hudson River School artists from the New York Historical Society’s collection. The Brandywine River Museum of Art, 1 Hoffman’s Mill Road, Chadds Ford, Pa. 610-388-2700, brandywinemuseum.org

History BATTLE OF HAMPTON ROADS March 4–6. The day will feature living history encampments and demonstrations, 19th-century music and games, and presentations by local authors and museum and NOAA staff. The Mariners’ Museum, Museum Drive, Newport News, Va. 757-596-2222, marinersmuseum.org PRESIDENT JAMES MADISON’S BIRTHDAY March 5, noon–9:00pm. Belle Grove Plantation, built for James Madison’s sister, celebrates the president’s birthday. Meet the Madisons and enjoy the historic home. Middletown, Va. bellegroveplantation.com HISTORY SYMPOSIUM: DOWNTON ABBEY March 19, 9:00am–1:00pm. Discover the history lessons this fictional story wove into its plots, from the impacts of World War I and women’s rights to foods and fashions. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-642-5173, fairfax county.gov/parks/greenspring MILITARY THROUGH THE AGES March 19–20. Reenactors and modern-day units show how uniforms, weapons, and military tactics evolved through the centuries. The chronological display of military history features artillery firings, a Saturday children’s parade, and a Sunday military passin-review. Jamestown Settlement, Jamestown, Va. historyisfun.org

Lectures/Workshops/Classes

PRIMITIVE TECHNOLOGY March 13. An afternoon of primitive skills demonstrations and participation: pottery making, herbal salves and teas, flint knapping, fire starting, cordage/ropemaking, and spinning wool. 6908 Belair Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-882-5376, marylandnature.org/nature-connections THE UNIVERSE AND YOU March 19 and 26, 8:00–9:00pm. Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for an engaging presentation to learn about the fascinating universe in which you live, are made from, and are part of.

Peaks of Otter Lodge, 85554 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, Va. 866-3879905, visitbedford.com FREE GARDENING SEMINARS March 26–19. Presented by the University of Maryland Extension, Baltimore County, master gardeners. 1114 Shawan Road, Cockeysville, Md. 410-887-8090, extension.umd.edu

O THER DISNEY JUNIOR’S CHOO CHOO SOUL March 5. Follow the musical adventures of the hip-hop singer and train station manager Genevieve Goings and her dancing, beatboxing engineer, DC, as they entertain families while performing soulful and current renditions of the ABCs and 1-2-3s. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. borail.org THE CIVIL WAR BEARD COMPETITION March 5, 2:30pm. Participants will literally face off beard to beard in this facial hair competition that celebrates the iconic styles of Civil War-era facial hair. Kids can join in on the action, too, with two crafty categories.

Mariners’ Museum, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News, Va. 757-5962222, marinersmuseum.org THE PINK EVENT March 6, noon–5:30pm. The women-focused expo, known as the ultimate women’s day out, will have several empowering sessions in addition to tailored shopping, raffle prizes, swag bags, and live performances. The BWI Marriott, Linthicum, Md. thepinkevent.net SS JOHN W. BROWN AT INNER HARBOR March 16–19. One of two surviving fully operational Liberty Ships built and preserved in Baltimore will be berthed at the Inner Harbor and open for public visits. Pratt and Light streets, Baltimore, Md. 410-274-5812

PRO SPORTS WASHINGTON WIZARDS AT HOME Saturday, March 5, vs. Indiana, 7:00pm Monday, March 14, vs. Detroit, 7:00pm Wednesday, March 16, vs. Chicago, 7:00pm Saturday, March 19, vs. N.Y. Knicks, 7:00pm Wednesday, March 23, vs. Atlanta, 7:00pm Friday, March 25, vs. Minnesota, 7:00pm Sunday, March 29, vs. Houston, 12:30pm

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

WASHINGTON CAPITALS AT HOME Wednesday, March 2, vs. Maple Leafs, 7:00pm Friday, March 4, vs. Rangers, 7:00pm Tuesday, March 15, vs. Hurricanes, 7:00pm Friday, March 18, vs. Predators, 7:00pm Saturday, March 26, vs. Blues, 7:00pm Monday, March 28, vs. Blue Jackets, 7:00pm

The Washington Capitals play home games at Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. More information: 202-397-SEAT, washingtoncaps.com

D.C. UNITED AT HOME

Sunday, March 20, vs. Colorado, 5:00pm Saturday, March 26, vs. Dallas, 5:30pm D.C. United plays home games at RFK Stadium, 2400 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. More information: 202-587-5000, dcunited.com

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RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS March 16–27. Get ready for an exhilarating adventure with extraordinary circus artists and magnificent exotic animals. 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, Md. 410-347-2020, royalfarmsarena.com TOSSED AND FOUND March 18–20. An annual weekend sale that provides many families in the community with quality, gently-used household goods at bargain prices. Arlington, Va. crystalcity.org TWLIGHT HIKE AND CAMPFIRE March 19, 6:30–8:00pm. Celebrate the end of winter with a full moon hike, campfire, marshmallows, and telescopes for moon-viewing, if the sky is clear. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Ave., Catonsville, Md. 410-887-1081 ANTIQUE-CLASSIC AUTO MEET March 25–26. Auto parts and swap meet. Indoor and outdoor show with corral spaces and parts market. 706 Agriculture Center Drive, Westminster, Md. 301-829-2000, carrollcountyagcenter.com

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B U G S ’ C O M E T O

Big Bugs, a larger-than-life animatronic exhibit featuring super-sized critters, is on display at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News through April 17. You’ll see the Madagascan sunset moth, the bombardier beetle, the dragonfly, the stag beetle, the orb-web spider, and the

V IR G IN IA L IV IN G

Say’s firefly, as well as a display of live insects, beautiful photographic banners of bugs and other invertebrates, and live animal programs.

“This exhibit will encourage an appreciation of the amazing diversity, complexity, and beauty of earth’s most common animals — in-

M U S E U M

sects — which make up 99 percent of life on earth,” said the museum’s Fred Farris.

The super-sized (5- to 12-feetlong) invertebrates are made by Billings Productions, the creators of animatronic dinosaur exhibits. All have been painstakingly designed

based on extensive research and in consultation with experts.

From super-sized to actual size, visitors can also view live invertebrates in displays, including giant hissing cockroaches that live in the continued on page 37

Kick off this spring with the fun and excitement of the Annapolis Boat Shows!

BAY BRIDGE BOAT SHOW April 15-17, 2016

Bay Bridge Marina - Stevensville, MD Boat show fun for the whole family

Take a Day? Take a Weekend?

You need to escape, but not too far away!

Check out this month’s exciting events in Carroll County!

THE PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE BOOK FAIR March 4 | 1 pm-4:30 pm seniors March 5 | 9 am-4 pm Carroll Community College Westminster

ALL DAY IRISH CELEBRATION March 12 | 9 am-5 pm Celtic Canter | 9 am-2 pm Leprechaun Chase | 9:30 am Main Street Westminster

AACA-SMR 46 ANTIQUE AUTO SWAP MEET March 25 & 26 | 8 am-3 pm Carroll County Agriculture Center Westminster TH

ANNAPOLIS SPRING SAILBOAT SHOW

9TH ANNUAL PEEPSHOW March 25-April 6 Marvelous marshmallow creations Carroll County Arts 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 or unique shopping.

800-272-1933 | www.CarrollCountyTourism.org

America’s history happened here...

Spring into History in Frank lin County, PA

Saturday, April 16 Follow the trails of Franklin County. Explore the frontier forts and secret hiding places of the Underground Railroad, Civil War sites, and hallowed grounds.

April 22-24, 2016

City Dock - Annapolis, MD Featuring Cruisers University

BUY TICKETS ONLINE! For more info:

AnnapolisBoatShows.com

410-268-8828

wispresort.com 855.990.0250

Forecast: 100% chance of adventure this winter!

New in 2016: “Caravans” Conocheague Settlement : A Frontier Tour Made in America: Architecture, Archaeology & Art

There’s still time to seize the season and make a memory at Wisp Resort.

Over the Mountain Social Struggles and An Emerging Nation

Enter to win an overnight at A.com ExploreFranklinCountyP 717-552-2977 | 866-646-8060 www.Facebook.com/FCVBen | www.twitter.com/FCVB

recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 2 7

Crawford County

Mid-Atlantic Fishing 2016 I reed hel l man

VisitCrawford.org

Spring beckons the Mid-Atlantic angler Throughout the Mid-Atlantic, if you listen carefully, you can hear the sound of dust getting blown off of fishing gear. From the mountains to the seashore, anglers of every description have begun prepping for the spring season.

Starting the season at the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival has become a spring ritual. This year’s festival, on April 9–10, has a new venue, the Meadow Event Park in Doswell, just a few minutes north of Richmond and near Kings Dominion.

“The new location can accommodate our growing event,” said festival director and noted fishing author Beau Beasley. “It will allow us to bring all of our vendors under roof, no longer

Fish on 17,088-acre Pymatuning Lake — Pennsylvania’s largest inland lake — with its reputation for producing exceptional fishing for crappies, walleyes, bass, musky, and channel catfish. Offering cabins, campgrounds, beaches, and boat rentals, Pymatuning State Park is a family-friendly vacation destination.

Only a few miles to the east is 925-acre Conneaut Lake, a glacier-formed clear water natural lake that has given up four state-record white bass and the largest toothy critter ever caught in the state, a 54-pound musky. Today, Conneaut supports strong populations of bass, pike, and crappies, as well as some of the biggest bluegills in the region.

Discover the treasure of smallmouth bass and walleye during a kayak float or wade-fish outing on pastoral French Creek. And, musky hunters should not overlook two smaller gems: Woodcock Creek Lake and Canadohta Lake.

Check out the guide service at blackwolfecommunications.com and Come and try to break our State Records 54lb.3oz Muskie or “like” the Facebook page 3lb.15.7oz white bass. Pymatuning State Park was named in “Fishing with Darl Black.” the top 10 in the Na on for the best family fishing vaca ons.

For a free fishing map, Guides are available. Call for a FREE FISHING MAP. call the Crawford County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-332-2338 or go to visitcrawford.org

subject to the vagaries of the weather.”

The festival has grown to become the largest event of its kind in the country. “We have plenty to entice the veteran angler,” continued Beasley. “In addition, the festival will continue to reach out to a nontraditional audience — folks who may not be aware of how easy and enjoyable fly fishing really is.

We are also committed to welcoming more women into the sport, and especially young families.”

Along with vendors, destinations, and guide services, festival attendees can choose from a roster of classes conducted by experts continued on page 34

Luray/Page County Visitors seeking to experience the Valley of Virginia through fishing activities have plenty of options.

Shenandoah River Adventures offers rental opportunities, all of which include equipment, a tutorial, and maps of the river. Owner Rodney Turner says he employs some “avid anglers” who were born and raised in the Shenandoah Valley and who can provide peak times and spots for whatever fish their customers are looking for. (shenandoahriveradventures.com) People looking for guided tours should check out Long’s Outfitters (longsoutfitters. com) and the Page Valley Fly Fishing Service. (pagevalleyflyfishing.com).

Fishermen with their own equipment can

participate in the Town of Luray’s April festivities, including Heritage Trout Day and Youth Trout Derby Day. (townofluray.com/ parks-recreation.html) Or, strike out on your own to find your favorite fish. Locations include Luray’s Cave Pond (pan fish), Hawksbill Creek along the Greenway (trout), Lake Arrowhead (pan fish and night cat-fishing every second Friday), and the Shenandoah River (smallmouth bass).

The town of Shenandoah requires state licenses for the Shenandoah Landing and River Park and for fishing in the pond at Big Gem Park.

The Town of Luray reminds everyone that anglers 16 and older need state and town licenses for its locations.

County of Bath Nestled in Virginia’s Western Highlands, the County of Bath is home to outstanding recreation and fishing in the George Washington National Forest, Douthat State Park, Lake Moomaw, Dominion Back Creek, and the Cowpasture and Jackson rivers.

With stunning vistas, dark starlit skies, clear, cold streams, and a wide range of recreational opportunities, visitors can expect to see white tail deer, wild turkey, black bear, and other animals in the vast woodlands.

Known for fly fishing, the county’s streams and most lakes are stocked with brown, brook, and rainbow trout. Anglers also catch large and small mouth bass, bluegill, crappies, and catfish.

Fishing is permitted in the National Forest, the Walton Tract of the Cowpasture River, the Jackson River North of Lake Moomaw, and the 3-mile Hidden Valley (Poor Farm to Muddy Run) stretch utdoor enthusiasts know of an unspoiled mountain paradise just west of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. of the Jackson River.

The only thing more abundant than the birds,wildlife and fish Otherwise, fishing on the are the stars that come out each night. Opportunities to hike, Cowpasture River and the bike and paddle – like the mountain views – go on forever.

Jackson River are by landowner permission only.

Make your dreams come true by checking DiscoverBath.com out the possibilities at 800-628-8092 #CountyofBathVA discoverbath.com.

O

Make your dreams come true in the County of Bath

2 8 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

Mid-Atlantic Fishing 2016 Virginia Fly Fishing Festival Now in its 16th year, the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival is the only event of its kind in the country and combines all aspects fly fishing and fly tying in a family-friendly, hands-on, stress-free environment. The festival covers everything from fly fishing for salmon in Alaska to chasing humble bluegill in family farm ponds to landing stripers on the Chesapeake Bay. Know nothing about fly fishing? No problem! We’ve gathered the nation’s best fly anglers, instructors, authors, fly tyers, and guides in one place — and they’re eager to teach you everything you need to know to enjoy the quiet sport.

We want to teach your kids about fly fishing, too. Children 16 and younger are free with a paying adult, and we offer free fly-tying classes to children and adults throughout the day. A fly fishing merit badge program is also available for free to uniformed Boy Scouts.

Major sponsors of our 2016 festival include TakeMeFishing.org, Orvis, Temple Fork Outfitters, The International Federation of Fly Fishers, Green Top, Harman’s North Fork Cabins, SweetWater Brewery, and Wild River Outfitters of Virginia Beach. New this year, attendees will be able to test kayaks and paddleboards in our live demo tank so they can try before they buy.

Head for the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival, April 9–10, at Meadow Event Park, north of Richmond. Numerous Virginia vintners, specialty food vendors (can you say “crab cakes”?), and live music will also be available. Admission is only $20 per person and includes free wine tasting for those 21 and older.

Outdoor enthusiasts from New York to Georgia will be at the show. Come experience the joy and discover the peace that only fly fishing can bring you.

For more information, visit vaflyfishingfestival.org.

Virginia State Parks Who can forget the excitement they felt when catching a fish for the first time? Virginia’s state parks offer plenty of opportunities for kids of all ages to experience the success of reeling in that first big catch, or even a small fry. Size really doesn’t matter to the child on the other end of the line.

Virginia State Parks have provided fun fishing opportunities since June 1936, when the system opened with just six parks. This year, the park system commemorates its 80th anniversary with 36 locations, and more in development. Wherever you are in Virginia, you’ll find a state park about an hour away.

From the Chesapeake Bay to the cool mountain streams of western Virginia, most Virginia State Parks offer convenient access to water. Virginia’s largest lakes all feature state parks, including Kerr Reservoir, Smith Mountain Lake, Claytor Lake, and Lake Anna. Parks are also located on Virginia’s major rivers, while others feature smaller lakes. From tubing to stand-up

paddle boarding, many parks also offer boat rentals and guided paddling programs.

State parks in Virginia offer many programs and events for the beginning angler.

Kids, as well as grown-ups, can learn about baiting hooks, fishing techniques, removal of hooks, and fish identification. Many parks even offer kids’ tournaments or special fishing days.

Virginia State Parks offer thousands of campsites and hundreds of cabins for overnight accommodations, and more than 500 miles of trails to explore.

Remember to check license requirements before you go. Virginia fishing licenses are required for ages 16 and up.

Licenses may be purchased in most parks, or online at vdgif.gov.

For more information about specific offerings and events, or to make overnight camping or cabin reservations, visit virginiastateparks.gov or call 800-933-PARK (7275).

April 9-10, 2016 Doswell, Virginia

16TH A N N U A L • Held in the Farm Bureau Center at the Meadow Event Park.

• Admission includes wine tastings from Virginia’s best vintners • Extensive children’s program with free instruction • Boy Scouts can earn their Fly Fishing Merit Badges • New “kayak testing pond.” Try before you buy!

When you need a personal day ®

Daily Admission $20 • 9am - 5pm www.vaflyfishingfestival.org

spend it with us.

Photo courtesy of Bill Crabtree Jr., Virginia Tourism Corp.

• New FFF courses offered including Certified Instructor’s Course

800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 2 9

Mid-Atlantic Fishing 2016 South River Fly Fishing Expo The South River Fly Fishing Expo will be held April 23–24 on the banks of the South River in Waynesboro, Va. The expo will showcase the tremendous fly-fishing opportunities available in Virginia and give attendees the opportunity to meet and learn more about fly fishing from some of the best presenters in the fly-fishing industry Guest presenters for 2016 include: u Stu Apte — International Game Fish Association Hall of Famer and author of My Life in Fly Fishing u Pat Dorsey — Colorado fly-fishing guide and author of Colorado Guide Flies u Greg Senyo — Ohio steelhead guide and author of Fusion Fly Tying u Will Turek — Federation of Fly Fishers certified casting instructor u Chuck Kraft — Virginia fly-fishing guide and designer of the CK series of trout and smallmouth bass flies These presenters and many more great local and regional fly anglers will offer presentations on all aspects of fly fishing and

fly tying for attendees. Fly fishing on the South River Delayed Harvest Area will be only steps away from the expo and many of the presentations will be held on the river.

Local and regional guides, fly shops, and outfitters will be on hand with essential fly-fishing gear and local knowledge of the best places to fly fish for trout, smallmouth bass, musky, and even many saltwater species.

The South River Fly Fishing Expo is founded on the idea that we should promote our fisheries and strive to maintain and improve the habitat and access for all to enjoy.

In keeping with that ideal, Destination Downtown Waynesboro, a 501c3 Virginia Main Street Organization, has committed to devoting 50 percent of the net proceeds from the South River Fly Fishing Expo to habitat and conservation projects that will improve the fishery on the South River. (facebook.com/southriverflyfishingexpo)

Weekend of April 23rd & 24th 9:00 am - 5:00 pm both days $12.00 admission at the door

Under 16 yrs. FREE Pre-order tickets at:

www.southriverexpo.org Stu Apte

The South River Fly Fishing Expo, hosted by Destination Downtown Waynesboro, will be held on the banks of the South River Delayed Harvest Area. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and learn from fly fishing professionals, including our featured presenters, and many local and regional guides and fly fishing retailers.

The South River Delayed Harvest area is one of the best fly fishing destinations in Virginia and great fly fishing for Brown and Rainbow Trout is only steps away from the Expo area.

Presenters

IGFA Hall of Famer, fly rod world record holder, and Tycoon Tackle Prostaff.

Greg Senyo Of Steelhead Alley Outfitters has been fishing and guiding for 20+ years.

Chuck Kraft Tycoon Tackle Pro Staff, well-known Smallmouth guide, author, & fly designer.

Pat Dorsey Pat is Southwest Field Editor of Fly Fisherman Magazine and a noted author.

Will Turek

Owner of Midwest Spey and is a Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Parrott Orthodontics Instructor. Blue Ridge Oral Surgery Village Garden Center

Matt Miles

He has been guiding for over 17 years. He is also active in the Skyline Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

30 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

Fish the Blue Ridge A free guide to the greatest fly-fishing spots in Southwest Virginia is available for the asking.

Your Guide to Great Fly Fishing in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Highlands provides detailed maps and descriptions of the best fly-fishing waters in Wytheville and Wythe County, Smyth County, Grayson County, and Washington County.

John Ross, author of Trout Unlimited’s Guide to America’s 100 Best Trout Streams was instrumental in the development of this guide. He tells anglers that Southwest Virginia is “in the midst of what I believe is the best and most diverse freshwater fly fishing in the state.”

Guide maps provide detail of these fishing locations, including the types of fish available, primary and secondary

routes to these locations, boating access, nearby trails, and campgrounds. Special regulation trout waters, put-and-take regulations, and catch-and-release waters are all identified.

There is much more to see and do in Southwest Virginia, from live performances at the Lincoln Theatre in Marion or the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre in Wytheville, to great local restaurants, unique shopping, museums, wineries, and cozy small downtowns ripe for exploration. Choices of specialty lodging include the General Francis Marion Boutique Hotel in Marion and the Bolling Wilson Boutique Hotel in Wytheville.

For more information, go to fishblueridge.com, or call 877-255-9928 or 877-347-8307 to order your free copy of the guide.

www.FishBlueRidge.com REQUEST YOUR GUIDE TO

Great Fly Fishing in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Highlands Get Detailed Maps and Descriptions of the greatest fly fishing waters in Southwest Virginia!

Plan your fishing vacation here!

Smyth, Wythe and Grayson Counties of Southwestern Virginia

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE

To Order your FREE Great Fly Fishing in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Highlands fishing guide, contact:

Smyth County Tourism

Wytheville Convention & Visitors Center

408 Whitetop Road, Chilhowie, VA 24319 Exit 35, I-81 (276) 646-3306 • Toll Free: (877) 255-9928 VisitVirginiaMountains.com

975 Tazewell Street, Wytheville, VA 24382 Exit 70, I-81 (276) 223-3355 • Toll Free: (877) 347-8307 VisitWytheville.com

Mid-Atlantic Fishing 2016 Smith Mountain Lake

Summersville Lake The fish are jumping at Summersville Lake! Rent a jon boat and try your luck for dinner tonight. You are sure to hook a fish on the lake’s 2,800 acres of water, which are surrounded by 60 miles of shoreline.

Reel in large- and small-mouth bass, walleye, panfish, catfish, and trout — they’re all stocked in the spring and fall.

Fishing guides with expert tips, including keys to some really good fishing in the early morning and late at night, are available. The West Virginia BASS Federation hosts fishing tournaments in late summer and fall.

Spend a day swimming, boating, scuba diving, rock climbing, hiking, and biking. Explore Civil War history at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, or climb the steps to the top of the Summersville Lake Retreat Lighthouse.

Enjoy the morning on the golf course or playing miniature golf at Mountain Lake Campground; in the afternoon, head over to Kirkwood Winery.

Visit summersvillecvb.com, where you can order your free visitors guide and get a coupon for a free T-shirt.

Smith Mountain Lake, located in the newly designated Virginia Mountains Region, is an amazing area with shoreline covering Bedford, Franklin, and Pittsylvania counties.

What’s not to love about a clear glistening lake with 580 miles of shoreline, four breathtaking seasons of color in a moderate climate, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and a location central to the metropolitan areas of Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Martinsville?

Smith Mountain Lake provides the perfect setting for every interest and lifestyle, be it wall-to-wall activities or just plain quiet and relaxing. Join our 50th anniversary celebration all year long.

History and wine anytime. Fish. Boat. Golf.

Dine. Shop. Stay.

For a free visitors guide, go to visitsmithmountainlake.com or call 540-721-1203.

Year-round appeal. History & Wine anytime.

Fish. Boat. Golf. Dine. Shop. Stay.

50 Years of Making Memories at Smith Mountain Lake!

800.676.8203

19

66-2016

visitsmithmountainlake.com

YEARS

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE VIRGINIA

For a list of 50th Anniversary SML events, visitsmithmountainlake.com/sml50. #SML50

Harman’s Cabins Grant County Trout stocking has begun in Grant County’s prime fishing areas. Check for latest stocking reports by visiting wvdnr.gov/fishing/ stocking/dailystock.shtm.

But, fishing is only part of a spring adventure in Grant County. It’s a great time for hiking, fishing, and beautiful photo opportunities — the perfect stop before a late season visit to the ski slopes.

West Virginia’s first annual Maple Festi-

val is March 18–20 and South Side Depot in Petersburg will be the “hub” for our area.

Stop by for maps and tips on participating sugar camps and maple food sampling. See a presentation on maple product production.

Enjoy entertainment and a pancake and sausage meal on Saturday at the Landes Ruritan Building.

Call 304-257-9266 for more information.

Grant County WEST VIRGINIA Skiing Winter Hiking Fishing

304-257-9266 visitgrantcounty.com

Come out and play

Harman’s luxury log cabins are located on the banks of a private access trophy trout stream in the Hopeville Canyon of West Virginia. The cabins are within the Monongahela National Forest, near Seneca Rocks and Smoke Hole Caverns in the heart of the Spruce KnobSeneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

Nestled in the foothills of the Dolly Sods Wilderness, the location offers access to outdoor activities such as trout fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, canoeing, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, skiing, golfing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Harman’s private access stream is man-

Travel.

Escape. Live.

• Private Outdoor Hot Tub • Fireplace • Fly Fishing Guide Service

aged for catch-and-release trophy trout. The nearly 2 miles of private access stream provide anglers with the opportunity to fish for rainbow, brown, brook, tiger, and golden trout, which are measured in pounds rather than inches.

Harman’s management plan has developed with years of experience to provide an optimum fly fishing adventure. While a trip to Harman’s can mean many successful days on the water, the fish are certainly not pushovers.

Plan your next fishing trip and stay at Harman’s by calling 304-257-2221 or visit wvlogcabins.com.

Relax at one of our Riverside log cabins on a private access trophy trout stream in Hopeville Canyon and within Monongahela National Forest in the heart of the Spruce Knob Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

www.wvlogcabins.com | 800-436-6254 recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 31

civ il war I g reg g cl emmer

Discover New Market’s preserved battlefield treasures When it comes to Civil War reenactments, New Market Battlefield State Historical Park is unique.

Unlike battlefields in national parks, the engagement portrayed at New Market has, for decades, been conducted on the actual ground where the fighting happened. And, for those who can’t make it to New Market for the epic living history event during the third weekend in V M I M u seu m May, the VirOnly 294 New Market Cross ginia Museum of Honor medals were of the Civil War produced and awarded awaits visitors to surviving cadets or the year-round on families of the fallen. the same hallowed ground.

Dedicated in 1970 and accredited by the American Association of Museums, VMCW is situated

on 280 acres of preserved battlefield marking the site of the last Confederate victory in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. These historic fields exist because of extraordinary generosity and foresight — they were donated along with a $3 million endowment to the Virginia Military Institute by George R. Collins, a 1911 VMI graduate who had purchased the property from the Bushong family in 1944. “It was one of the earliest acts of battlefield preservation in Virginia, and even in the country, by an individual,” said site director Scott Harris.

Even before setting foot in the museum, many visitors are moved by the metal drum-like rotunda braced all around by the symbolic muskets leaning against it. Inside, in the Virginia Room, a series of campaign dioramas, enhanced by wartime relics ranging from diaries and daguerreotypes to buttons and bullets, illustrate the war as it tore across the Old Dominion, from Manassas to Appomattox. Visitors will find themselves drawn to abstract artist Ami Shamir’s stained glass window highlighting the war in the Shenandoah Valley, as well as to the Civil War Art Collection donated by VMI alumnus Robert Raeburn.

The way to begin a visit is to watch the Emmy Award-winning film Field of Lost Shoes, which is shown hourly. With the battlefield awaiting exploration just outside the door, visitors can examine

v irginia MuseuM

the preserved period artifacts on display from the Bushong family farm, as well as relics from the fighting — everything from a shell-damaged cadet musket to an authentic VMI cadet uniform.

Visitors can test their astute historical discovery skills by searching for the exquisitely rare New Market Cross of Honor on display in the museum.

In 1904, 40 years after the Battle of New Market, the VMI Alumni Association presented a bronze medal of valor in recognition of participation in the battle to surviving members and the families of deceased members of the New Market Corps. Only 294 medals were presented, each individually inscribed to the specific recipient.

The General’s Store gift shop has a wide array of books, maps, and interesting souvenirs. There’s also an added bonus, as the shop houses the Shenandoah Valley Tourist Information Center.

There, visitors can find hundreds of brochures, travel guides, and highway maps, along with upto-the-minute weather and traffic information.

Outside, a scenic picnic area beckons, and interpretive trails welcome visitors to discover the past, especially the Bushong House and the “Field of Lost Shoes.”

For more information New Market Battlefield: vmi.edu/vmcw

tthe american civil war museum

W

hether your interest is in the causes for Confederacy, the struggle for Union or the fight for Freedom, you’ll find it at The American Civil War Museum. In Richmond and Appomattox.

of the

C ivil War New Market Battlefield State Historical Park New Market, Virginia

vmi.edu/newmarket

866.515.1864

32 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

One great museum. Three distinct locations.

ACWM.ORG

civ il war I g reg g cl emmer

Experience some of the Civil War’s final fights in North Carolina With Atlanta burned and Sherman’s March to the Sea cutting the Confederacy in half, Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia mired after months of debilitating trench war around Petersburg and Richmond, and the Army of Tennessee devastated to less than 8,000 effectives, the Confederacy reeled toward military defeat.

In response to Lee’s order to gather all remaining forces to confront Gen. William T. Sherman’s Union forces heading toward North Carolina, Gen. Joseph E. Johnston issued the appropriate orders but declared, “It is too late to expect me to concentrate troops capable of driving back Sherman.”

Yet in the ides of March of 1865, Johnston and his men would try.

On Johnston’s orders, Gen. William Hardee used terrain to block or at least slow down the Union advance, or, as he would write later, “to ascertain whether I was followed by Sherman’s whole army, or a part of it, and what was its destination. …”

Halting his men several miles south of Averasboro, N.C., Hardee blocked this narrowest swath of land between the Cape Fear and Black rivers, bringing all of his 7,000 soldiers into a 2-mile-wide space that would cramp Gen. Henry Slocum’s advancing 15,000 Union effectives. With Hardee’s flanks protected by the rivers, advancing Yankees

faced a dense maze of underbrush cut by creeks, swamps, and deep ravines. Hard rains soon added more disadvantages, rendering the few fields knee-deep in water.

It worked … at least for a while. Coming darkness ended the fight, and Hardee ordered campfires across his front to cover his evening withdrawal to join Johnston.

Harkening back to the Revolutionary War Yet there was something special about this battle. In stunning similarity, Gen. Daniel Morgan had employed nearly the same tactics during the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Cowpens, fought 180 miles to the west in January 1771. Both Morgan and Hardee commanded seasoned veterans, but filling their ranks were inexperienced troops in retreat before an aggressive, victorious foe. And, both generals had used these green troops as their first line of defense, blunting the enemy’s attack until they could retire to stronger defensive lines. History had repeated itself … up to a point.

Hardee commended his men for “giving the enemy the first serious check he has received since leaving Atlanta.” Yet Averasboro, while not a defeat, was certainly no stunning Confederate victory, and more and more, unlike their victori-

ous Revolutionary ancestors, Southern soldiers felt fate’s clock ticking.

Although Hardee had stalled Slocum’s advance at Averasboro, the right wing of Sherman’s army under command of Gen. Oliver Howard had pushed on toward Goldsboro, the strategic junction of the Atlantic & North Carolina and Wilmington & Weldon railroads.

In North Carolina’s largest Civil War battle, Bentonville would also be the South’s last largescale tactical offensive, with almost 30,000 soldiers from every state in the Confederacy, plus Kentucky, wearing the gray. Sherman’s 60,000 men in blue marched from 14 Union states, and also included the 110th Regiment, United States Colored Infantry, formerly the 2nd Regiment Alabama Volunteers, African Descent.

On March 19, Slocum discovered Johnston’s entrenched Confederates blocking his advance at Bentonville. Heavy skirmishing erupted from both sides until Johnston seized the initiative in late afternoon. Union counterattacks and intense fighting in the swampy woods south of the Goldsboro Road blunted the Confederate offensive and only sporadic skirmishing occurred the next day.

But on March 21, Johnston still held his position. continued on page 34

Our Forefathers’ aim in visiting what would become America was at first mere curiosity. But now it feels right to sacrifice for a cause as noble as the hills here are beautiful.

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

0$1&+(67(5 5'

recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 33

North Carolina continued from page 33

surrendering the surviving remnants of his army on April 26, 1865.

Happening now

Sporadic firefights sputtered along the entire front as a rainstorm moved in. In the afternoon, Union Gen. Joseph Mower led two brigades around the Confederate left flank, attacking Mill Creek Bridge in Johnston’s rear.

A series of frantic Confederate counterattacks halted Mower’s advance and saved the South’s only line of retreat. Union losses numbered 1,527, while Confederate casualties, mostly captured, exceeded 2,600.

Sherman, after regrouping and resupplying his army at Goldsboro, started for Johnston’s army near Raleigh.

With Lee’s surrender at Appomattox on April 9, few options remained for the South and, on April 18, Johnston signed an armistice with Sherman at the Bennett House, near Durham Station, formally

Today, extraordinary artifacts await visitors in the Averasboro Civil War Museum. One display includes the uniform and sword of Col. Thomas J. Purdie. It was Purdie’s 18th North Carolina Infantry that had discharged the “friendly fire” that mortally wounded Gen. Stonewall Jackson at Chancellorsville.

On March 18, the battlefield presents a program on Resisting Sherman: A Confederate Surgeon’s Journal and the Civil War in the Carolinas, 1865, a book edited by a direct descendant of the author.

The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum has a continuing exhibit, Cumberland County Goes to War. On March 20–21, the Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site will host “The Ground Trembled Under Our Feet,” a dramatic artillery demonstra-

Fishing

perts, take that knowledge to West Virginia’s North Fork River and Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins. (wvlogcabins. com) Harman’s offers nearly 2 miles of private access trophy trout steam in Hopeville Canyon, within the Monongahela National Forest.

Managed for catch-and-release trophy fish, Harman’s stream holds rainbow, brown, brook, tiger, and golden trout. And, its log cabins add a large measure of comfort to the fishing.

The storied limestone spring creeks of Central Pennsylvania offer a different take on small-water angling.

The challenging environment on the LeTort Spring Run and other Pennsylvania creeks motivated a band of pioneering fly casters to develop the modern techniques, methods, and fly patterns generally in use today.

The LeTort posed so many problems that the legendary Charlie Fox, Vince Marinaro, Ed Shenk, and others had to adapt existing techniques and create a whole new way of looking at fly fishing. The LeTort became a living laboratory for reinventing the sport.

If saltwater fishing is more to your taste, Maryland and Delaware together have more than 5,000 miles of

continued from page 28 and practice hands-on skills. Several Old Dominion wineries will provide free wine tastings for adults over 21. (vaflyfishingfestival.com)

A new event Also new this spring, the South River Fly Fishing Expo, April 23–24, continues the tradition of celebrating fly fishing on the banks of Waynesboro’s South River. The inaugural event features vendors, fly fishing experts, fly tyers, local wines and brews, and local food trucks, all within casting distance of stocked trout waters and quality urban fly fishing.

The expo will feature noted anglers such as IGFA Hall of Famer Stu Apte; Greg Senyo, author of Fusion Fly Tying; Spey caster Will Turek; Colorado guide Pat Dorsey; and Virginia smallmouth guide Chuck Kraft. Many of the experts will offer lessons. (facebook.com/southriver flyfishingexpo, 540-942-5566) After taking those courses and listening to the ex-

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Call Warren Washington today: 202-631-1225

Where 19th-century culture mingles with the ghosts of the Lincoln assassination story.

9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton, MD 20735 Phone: 301-868-1121 www.surrattmuseum.org

34 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

tion on the 151st anniversary of the battle. While the visitor center’s display of battlefield artifacts and interpretative maps bring the battle close, hiking the quarter-mile trail along the Union breastworks, touring the Harper House and reconstructed slave quarters, and pondering the nearby Confederate mass grave ensure a memorable day at the Tar Heel State’s premier Civil War battlefield.

The Bentonville historical marker is at the northbound I-95 rest stop near Fayetteville. A 130-mile Civil War Trail includes more than two dozen Civil War-related sites in the area.

Learn more Averasboro Battlefield: averasboro.com Bentonville Battlefield: nchistoricsites.org/ bentonvi/bentonvi.htm Dunn Co. Tourism: dunntourism.org Fayetteville Tourism: visitfayettevillenc.com

tidal shoreline, including the Chesapeake and Delaware bays, and 100 miles of oceanfront. From pan fish in the headwaters of myriad tidal creeks to massive marlin taken from the canyons off of Ocean City, the Mid-Atlantic offers a full gamut of marine species. Charter cruises and head boats enable anglers to enjoy the salt water without needing to own a boat.

As spring advances through the Mid-Atlantic, anglers can enjoy a widening gamut of fishing opportunities that ranges from small water to saltwater and from the Pennsylvania piedmont south to the mountains and lakes of Virginia and West Virginia.

RUISE

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Can you ‘Fathom’ this cruise?

Bigger, longer, more size, more restaurants, more features … that’s been the battleground in the cruise industry for the past decade or two.

The industry has also tried the experiential learning side of things by offering cooking and wine classes, lectures, computer learning classes, dance classes, climbing rock walls, surfing, and more. By doing so, the industry is covering all the amenities, from size and features, to promoting a luxurious time and offering classes and hands-on experiences, to provide memories to take home with you. It is all part of the cruise industry’s chronic one-upmanship battle.

In the latest installment of this saga, Carnival Cruise Lines has launched its new Fathom line, with sailings beginning in April. What is special about Fathom? It’s what Carnival calls “social impact travel.”

Arnold Donald, Carnival’s CEO says, “Fathom will cater to an underserved market of consumers who want to have a positive impact on people’s lives, and aren’t always sure where to begin.”

The Fathom program targets three key customer groups for this brand of “voluntourism”: older millennials with disposable income, families with children ages 8 and older (to show them meaningful vacation experiences), and older adults approaching retirement who want to give their time, not just donate money, to a charitable cause.

Initially, Fathom will offer seven-day trips, from Miami to the Dominican Republic and Cuba on a modest-sized 710-passenger ship previously known as the British P&O Cruise Lines’ Adonia, which also sailed under both the Renaissance and Princess cruise lines. The Fathom cruise experience partners with well-established organizations to provide volunteer experiences for guests.

So, exactly who is doing this and who are these

cruises targeting? Vicky Garcia, chief operating officer and co-owner of Cruise Planners, said, “I think it’s super exciting; very outside the box.

There are people doing this type of travel today.

What an interesting concept to do it on a cruise ship.”

Voluntourism audience The appeal of “voluntourism” reaches both millennials seeking authentic experiences as well as baby boomers reliving the joy of volunteering in their younger days. While this is not likely to become a dominant brand of cruising, it is likely to become a highly successful niche market with considerable growth potential.

Another target audience for this niche is people who have never cruised before. The program offers a combination of both comfort and safety while offering the “feel-good” aspect of volunteering and leaving behind something good, all while exploring an exotic destination. Why not do it on a cruise ship?

“Voluntourists” can cruise for two days to Amber Cove, a newly created cruise port on the north coast of the Dominican Republic on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. On that leg of the cruise, passengers receive hands-on classes and informational presentations preparing them for their volunteer work. They learn basic Spanish, see documentary films on everyday life and culture on the island, and explore personal enrichment. Traditional excursions are available, as well as opportunities to volunteer teaching English and help with water, agricultural, and other civic projects. Back on board, the ship provides all your meals, a comfortable stateroom, and other amenities, such as the spa, pool, library, and leisure spaces. Rates for this cruise begin at $974 per per-

son, double occupancy.

Insider tip: Families traveling with children (minimum age of 8 by the time of embarkation), should book early to receive access to the limited number of quad cabins.

Interested in seeing Cuba? While the costs for Fathom cruises to Cuba are much higher than the Dominican Republic itinerary, they are not out of line with other trips offered there, considering the hot ticket demand for a newly opened frontier.

Fathom is the first American mainstream cruise company to sail to Cuba. Fathom received approval from the U.S. Department of Treasury and U.S. Department of Commerce because its mission, “voluntourism,” fulfills the people-to-people and humanitarian requirements that govern trips to Cuba.

American interest in travel to Cuba is really taking off. While Congress has yet to lift the embargo against Cuba, steps to normalize relations between the two countries have made this possible.

Already, ferry service between Miami and Cuba has been established and an embassy is open again. Trips on this cruise will replace many traditional entertainment options with training, such as Spanish language lessons and Cuban music, art, and culture presentations, for the in-port activities.

Even the menus will be inspired by Cuban cuisine.

Should the concept prove successful, who knows what the possibilities will be with other cruise lines.

“There’s definitely a market for it, the question is how big is it and how much are they willing to pay,” said Miami-based cruise expert Stewart Chiron, CEO of CruiseGuy.com. “There are a lot of people who would like to be able to give of their time, but they haven’t had the right vehicle.”

Want to find out more? Visit fathom.org.

Bon voyage!

m u sic f estiv al I g wen wool f

March music festivals spotlight Irish and Bluegrass CULTURE If you like rock music, beer, and celebrating all things Irish, ShamrockFest is for you. Organizers call the March 12 event “the biggest St. Paddy’s Day party in Washington D.C.” More than 30 Irish rock bands, disc jockeys, and performers will appear on six stages at RFK Stadium between 3:00pm and 11:00pm. There also will be Irish dancers, bag pipers, an Irish Village with crafts, a “Hot Kilted Legs Contest,” party games, and carnival rides.

Bands performing include Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, Vanilla Ice, Street Dogs, Scythian, Go Go Gadjet, The Fighting Jamesons, The Rocks, Celkilt, Dublin 5, Fish Out of Water, and more.

Food and American and Irish-inspired cider and beer, including gluten-free beer, will be available.

This is the 17th year for the festival, which is promoted by Red Frog Events.

A change of pace

If American bluegrass music is more your style, check out the Wilmington Winter Bluegrass Festival, March 18–20. The event will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, located at 630 Naamans Road in Claymont, Del. The event’s host band is Cold Chocolate. Other bands in the line-up include Volume Five, Gold Heart, Cindy G., Blue Mafia, and Feinberg Brothers.

Besides performances on the main stage, there will be workshop stages.

The festival’s mission is to educate the public about bluegrass and pass on the tradition to the next generation.

The organization also sponsors a youth scholarship program.

Where: RFK Stadium, Washington, D.C. Tickets/info: shamrockfest.com

What: Wilmington Winter Bluegrass Festival When: March 18–20 Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Claymont, Del. Tickets/info: 302-730-4065, wilmingtonwintergrass.org

About the festivals What: Shamrock Fest When: March 12

recreationnews.com I march 2016 I recreation news 35

adv entu res in taste I reed hel l man

What can I bring to the party?

Creating the ideal traveling dish An invitation to dine with family and friends can be a joy, but can also be a dilemma: What to bring along as your contribution to the communal table?

Sure, you can go out and buy something, but foodies would rather not show up with something storebought. Besides, parties are excellent occasions to strut your culinary stuff.

The ideal “bring-along” dish should travel well and need minimal onsite cooking or preparation.

A delicate soufflé is just not the most practical.

Appetizers, salads, and side dishes make good choices and provide fertile ground for your creativity. Home baked breads and rolls are impressive, even magical.

Most importantly, what would the host and company enjoy? Invited to spend the first night of a cross-country road trip with some old friends, recently moved to central Ohio, we packed four-dozen steamed crabs in a Styrofoam box. Nine hours later, when we arrived in Ohio, they were still warm.

However, regardless the thermal shielding, there will still be some heat loss or gain over time.

Foods with critical temperature ranges, or that change in taste or texture as they change temperature — soft ice cream desserts, for example — may not make good bring-alongs. Proper food handling, including transporting, requires keeping

hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Use an insulated box or wrap multiple layers of towels around the food carrier. Owning a large assortment of foodquality plastic containers with matching, sealing lids also helps.

Journey into 1790 Join me on March 26, 1:00–3:00pm, at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum in Oella, Md., for culinary time travel. Along with historical interpreters and museum staff, we will demonstrate Federal period open-hearth cooking, focusing on the foods enjoyed by one of America’s premier 18th-century scientists, Benjamin Banneker, and his family and community.

Along with the authentic cabin and hearth, the park has a museum, gardens, natural and historic sites, and miles of trails connecting to the Trolley Line No. 9 Trail, leading into historic Ellicott City.

The park is located at 300 Oella Ave. (benjaminbanneker.wordpress.com, 410-887-1081)

MARYLAND GREEN BEAN SALAD WITH SHEEP’S CHEESE AND APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SYRUP Thanks to chef Curtis Eargle for providing the recipe for this impressive bring-along. It must be prepared within two

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36 recreation news I march 2016 I recreationnews.com

hours of serving, or the beans will discolor.

Servings: 6 4 ounces green beans (preferably haricot verts), snipped 1/2 ounce ramp bulbs or scallions, minced 1/2 medium Vidalia onion, peeled and minced 1 ounce Smithfield ham, julienned 1 ounce sheep’s cheese, julienned 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Sea salt and freshly milled white pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped 3 ounces baby arugula, washed 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar syrup (Recipe below.)

Blanch the beans in salted water, shock in ice water, and pat dry. Toss the beans with the ramps, onions, ham, vinegar, olive oil, and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Place a few of the arugula leaves on the bottom of a chilled plate. Arrange the bean salad on top of the arugula. Place the sheep’s cheese on the bean salad and “paint” the plate and salad with a little apple cider vinegar syrup from a squirt bottle.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SYRUP 2 cups apple cider vinegar 3 tablespoons maple syrup 1 sprig fresh tarragon Combine the vinegar and the maple syrup in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to simmer, slowly reducing mixture until it starts to thicken, about 20 minutes.

Check for proper thickness by placing a small amount of the vinegar syrup mixture on a well-chilled plate and placing in the freezer for 2 to 3 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, thin with more vinegar.

Remove the syrup mixture from the stove.

Place the tarragon sprig in the syrup and allow to infuse for 5 minutes.

Strain the syrup and store in a plastic squirt bottle. Keeps for 1 month in the refrigerator.

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit his website, reedhellman wordsmith.com, or email questions and comments to rhway2go@yahoo. com. www.recreationnews.com 410-638-6901 fax: 410-638-6902

wine doctor I edward finstein

Vinous bits and bites bring lots of news to the world of wine

Here are some vinous tidbits that you might find interesting: u Cat wine Don’t like to sip wine alone? Well, if you have a cat, you won’t have to anymore. A Japanese company, B & H Lifes, has come up with wine made specifically for your feline friend.

Called “Nyan Nyan Nouveau” — “nyan nyan” means “meow meow” in Japanese — the wine does not contain alcohol, but juice made from cabernet grapes mixed with catnip.

In Japan, it costs about $4 a bottle, and only about a thousand bottles have been produced.

These folks must have had a few too many when they thought of this.

I wonder what animal activists make of it? This “Chateau Puss Puss” could easily start a new trend. What’s next?

“Bark-o-Velha” for your dog? “Rabbit Riesling” for your bunny? “Parrot-tage” for your pet bird? u Domain “Kimye” If you happen to follow the goingson of the Kardashians (I don’t), and particularly Kim Kardashian and her husband, Kanye West, then you might find this noteworthy.

Apparently, the Wests have been

busy renovating their $20 million, French chateau–style mansion on 3 acres in Hidden Hills, Calif., since August 2014. Located on the property is a vineyard they are rehabbing, with the help of experts, to grow grapes for wine. Kanye, who is a wine lover, has made reference to the moscato grape in some of his music, so perhaps this is what they are planning to cultivate.

They say the vino will not be for sale, but strictly for personal consumption. You’ve got to wonder, though. Is it only a matter of time until they join the likes of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, with their JoliePitt & Perrin Cote de Provence Rose Miraval, and sell their production commercially? After all, they are huge media hounds and wine would provide them with yet more publicity. u Alcohol in wine Do you have a hangover from sipping some wine last night, but you really didn’t drink that much? It could be the vino had more alcohol than stated on the label.

In most countries, winemakers are allowed to round alcohol levels up or

down by at least half a percent. The reason for this could be marketing, or to meet customers’ expectations of how strong a bottle should be.

Those which are lower by half a percent aren’t necessarily the culprit, but those raised by that same percentage can be.

Researchers at the University of California found that, by sampling almost 100,000 international wines, 60 percent possessed an average of 0.42 percent higher alcohol than stated on the label. That may not sound like much, but according to one of the head researchers, even small discrepancies, such as a half percent, could lead consumers to underestimate the amount of alcohol they have consumed, possibly affecting their health and driving safety.

Apparently, Chilean and Spanish reds, as well as Chilean and American whites, showed the most variance in alcohol from what was stated on the label. u Resveratrol in wine Most folks are now familiar with a natural-resulting component in red wine called resveratrol that claims to help fight against cancer, dementia,

B IG

more about these animals — and some of the animals that rely on them.

The live insects in the program will be video magnified and shown on a 65-inch screen.

Overhead are beautiful color photographic banners by award-winning Harvard entomologist, photographer, and author Piotr Naskrecki. The banners explore the fascinating world of

invertebrates — insects, arachnids, and their kin.

The exhibit is included in regular

B U G S

continued from page 27 savannah forests of Madagascar, blue death-feigning beetles, mealworms (the larvae of the darkling beetle), tarantulas, and millipedes.

On weekends, the museum is presenting theater-style live programs in the Changing Exhibit Gallery. Learn

S E R V IN G

W A S H IN G T O N

and immune-deficiency illnesses.

Argentinean scientists have been experimenting with using resveratrol in winemaking rather than SO2, or sulfites, which act as antimicrobials and antioxidants. The resulting wines are almost identical, except those utilizing resveratrol in the winemaking were deeper in color and contained much more resveratrol (natural and induced). The only drawback, if any, is how age-worthy the wines would be compared to those treated with SO2, as it is a great preservative. For wines made for early consumption though, it’s not an issue.

Good news for the health-conscious consumer. © Edward Finstein, “The Wine Doctor” 2016. “The Wine Doctor” is Edward Finstein, award-winning author, TV/radio host, renowned wine journalist, international wine judge, professor of wine, and consultant. (winedoctor.ca, twitter. com/drwineknow, thewinedoctor. blogspot.com, winedoctor.ca/docsgrapevine.html, or facebook.com/ edwarddocfinstein?fref=ts)

museum admission. The Virginia Living Museum is open daily, 9:00am– 5:00pm. (thevlm.org)

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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. You may also email to publisher@recreationnews.com. Provide all information in the form above and enter “MARCH CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 3/15/2016. 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 March, 17, 2016. Winner must respond by March, 24, 2016 or prize forfeits to a runner up. Limit one entry per household. Winner can choose from three concerts scheduled Friday, April 15, Saturday, April 16, or Sunday, April 17. Other restrictions may apply.

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April 1-10, 2016 Reading, PA berksjazzfest.com

TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

Sunday, May 8, 2016 — Annual Mother’s Day Celebration in New York City. A new play, Eclipsed, starring Academy Award winning actress Lupita Nyong’o. Package includes transportation, continental breakfast, orchestra seat, five-course dinner, prizes and more.

Show love to Mom, Wife, Daughter, Sis, BFF, Cousin. Don’t Wait!. This trip always sells out!

Friday, June 24 — Ladies Day Out! Amish Country Cookin’ Tour includes Factory Tour/ Tasting, Foods Presentation, Wine Tasting, Family-Style Lunch and a special gift. Lots of fun for ladies only.

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foot attraction offers 22 trains and 150 hand-built animated figures and vehicles, including a barn raising, baseball game, and fire scene.

Roads and Rails Museum Frederick, Md. facebook.com/roadsandrailsmuseum Said to be the fourth-largest model train layout in the world, the attraction has plenty of buttons for kids to push to operate the trains. It’s open Thursday– Sunday.

Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum Hagerstown, Md. roundhouse.org, 301-739-4665 Two floors of toy train layouts are available Friday–Sunday. There’s an HO-scale roundhouse, an O-scale layout, and trains kids can operate, as well as artifacts and photographs. Outside are two cabooses, locomotives, and a streetcar.

OTHER EXPERIENCES Manassas Heritage Railroad Festival Manassas, Va. visitmanassas.org, 703-361-6599 A free family celebration of the area’s rich railroad history under Harris Pavilion on June 4 includes elaborate model train displays, vendors, and entertainment. Take an excursion on the VRE to Clifton on June 4 or ride behind the J611 steam engine to Front Royal June 4 or 5.

Marshall Steam Museum Yorklin, Del. auburnheights.org, 302-239-2385 Though not open for regular public tours, the monthly Steamin’ Days at the Auburn Heights Preserve provide great family entertainment on the first Sunday of the month, May–November. You’ll see the world’s largest operating collection of Stanley Steam cars, the Auburn Heights mansion, and 1930s Lionel model train layouts. Enjoy rides on the 1/8-scale Auburn Valley Railroad and in select antique steam-, electric-, and gas-powered cars.

Rail fans can stay in a real caboose at the Red Caboose Motel in Ronks, Pa., open March–December and now under new ownership, or the Caboose Motel in Titusville, Pa., open May–October.

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