Recreation News, November 2015

Recreation The Official Publication for Government Employees Associations & Govemployee.com November 2015

Volume 33/Number 11

www.recreationnews.com

News

Holiday getaways: Let the memories begin

WIN!

A Winter Getaway for Two to Brandywine Valley

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Guide to holiday lights I Arts across Maryland I West Virginia after dark Gettysburg’s holiday spirit I Head to the Historic Triangle I Find the perfect room in Yellowstone I Cruising from Baltimore I Maryland cultural icons

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2 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

FEARLESS IS LETTING THEM SEE YOU SWEAT. We believe in supporting your hard work and rewarding you every step of the way.

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Open Season starts 11/9 See what’s new for 2016 at fepblue.org/2016benefits This is a summary of the features for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan. Before making a final decision, please read the plan’s federal brochure (RI 71-005). All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations and exclusions set forth in the current federal brochure.

recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 3

editor’s note I marvin bond

Little boys love trains It’s true. Little boys are fascinated by trains. I know I was, and the idea was reaffirmed recently when we took our 3-year-old grandson to the B&O Railroad Museum. The historic Roundhouse marks the birth of commercial railroading in America and is home to legendary locomotives such as the Tom Thumb and Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train.

Jack, our grandson, was a bit overwhelmed by the huge engines and rail cars, but took delight in the children’s activity area in the Roundhouse. Children also receive a sheet that can be stamped at various spots in the museum and win a prize in the

railroad museum’s shop.

Outdoors, behind the Roundhouse, Jack, like another young male visitor, was fascinated by the huge model railroad layout. He ran around the perimeter of the display pushing the buttons that would start different trains on their journeys through tunnels, villages, and countryside.

The outside area also includes a small train to ride, a railroad-themed carousel, and other children’s activities.

But the primary purpose of our visit was the actual train ride along the first mile of track laid by the B&O Railroad. Three-year-olds are

impatient, and Jack wiggled with excitement once we boarded the passenger car and waited for the trip to begin. He held his ticket out for the conductor to punch and smiled a big smile when he felt the train’s first movement.

Jack didn’t particularly care that we were truly riding on America’s most historic track or that we were passing the museum’s restoration workshops and Mount Clare Mansion, the Colonial home of Charles Carroll the Barrister. Jack simply cared that he was actually riding in a big train, but that was good enough for me.

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The range in ages of visitors offered proof that a lot of little boys retain their fascination with trains, even after receiving their first Social Security checks. A number of years ago we helped fulfill a wish of a favorite uncle by taking him to the B&O Railroad Museum and on the train ride. He had worked for the C&O (later Chessie System) Railroad in Richmond most of his life and wanted to see the place it all began in Baltimore.

The rails that stitched America together began with that first mile of track and it’s an experience worth sharing. The Mid-Atlantic has a lot of railroad history and we’ll be highlighting railroad museums, scenic excursion trains, and other rail attractions in the March 2016 issue.

Travelers’ Toolbox ◆ With winter approaching, Heat Holders can help keep your tootsies warm. The socks are billed as seven times warmer than basic cotton socks because of advanced insulating yarn. I gave a pair to my fatherin-law, who complains of cold feet, and he was well pleased with the result. (heatholders.com)

Coming next month ◆ Mid-Atlantic skiing ◆ Civil War section ◆ Winter in Garrett County Marvin Bond

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Among the locomotives at the B&O Railroad Museum is Lincoln’s funeral train.

publisher’s note I karl teel

learn about yourself whenever YOU TRAVEL

interest in my heritage increased with my travels.

Later, I actually visited Estonia.

I visited 47 other countries, including about a half a dozen trips to Europe, before I made it to Estonia. It was almost out of guilt that I booked the trip, figuring I’d be the first in my immediate family to visit in more than a half a century. During much of that period, tourism was impossible because the country was under Soviet occupation.

But, my cousin, who I am close to, had two Estonian parents and spoke the language fluently, so off we went for a week.

I was stunned by the connections I felt. “Wow! This is the homeland.” In fact, it was pretty cool, and Estonia was one of the most fascinating places I’d ever been. I longed to return.

A few years later, while on a cruise visiting capitals of the Baltic Rim with another couple, we stopped in Estonia. My wife and I were thrilled to be there once again. This time we were the socalled experts, who could guide our friends to all the hot spots and make the most of our 10-hour stop in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.

Tallinn, the oldest continually inhabited medieval city in the world, is surrounded by a castle wall and 47 turrets and sits on a hill. Our plan was to take a cab from the port terminal to the top of the hill and make our day a long downhill walk with scenic views and hot spots along the way.

The four of us jumped into a cab, glanced up at the license by chance and there it was — our cabbie’s name, Toivo, appeared before my eyes.

It was my first time ever meeting anyone with that name!

Excitedly, I pulled out my passport and showed him, “That’s my middle name. I’ve never met anyone else named Toivo.” Warmly, he responded, “It’s fairly common in these parts; it’s Finnish for ‘hope.’”

Toivo. What the heck is “Toivo?” You can’t find it in any dictionary.

Well, for starters, it’s my middle name. As the child of an Estonian immigrant, I imagined it to be somewhat connected to “the old country,” which in fact it was. OK. So cool, it may be like “John” or “Mike” over there, but I’m here in the good ol’ USA, where it just seemed weird.

Like all youths, my struggle to fit in was important in earlier school days and this name was a burden. I hated it. I used the middle initial whenever I could to avoid the ever-present confusion, laughter, or ridicule when it would be exposed.

And, I thanked God that my mother put her foot down and insisted on a somewhat mainstream first name and relegated the old country honoraria to the middle name, where it could be appropriately buried.

There it remained, until I was in college, where different wasn’t so bad.

I often would tell people “it’s Finnish for Tom” Best security plans for residential, small business, and Government because most people employees. never even heard of EsContact Warren tonia.

Washington today As time went on, the dislike of the name 202-631-1225 dwindled somewhat and I began to accept it.

This was, in part, as my

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 ~ Editor’s Note 5 ~ Publisher’s Note 7 ~ Indiana County holidays 8 ~ Travel Line 10 ~ Arts across Maryland 12 ~ Maryland cultural icons 14 ~ Holiday light displays 16 ~ West Virginia after dark 18 ~ Head for the Historic Triangle 20 ~ Gettysburg’s holiday spirit 21 ~ Cruise Corner 22 ~ Christmas in St. Michaels 26 ~ Get a room in Yellowstone 29 ~ Cruise from Baltimore 30 ~ Calendar of Events 34 ~ Music Festival 36 ~ Adventures in Taste 37 ~ Wine Doctor You never know what or who you’ll run into while travelling. How cool is that? Toivo — I love it!

On our cover The holidays are just around the corner so it’s time to plan a winter getaway.

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recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 5

combined federal campaign I tim saasta

Should you give through the Combined Federal Campaign?

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The biggest workplace fundraising drive in the country is the federal government’s Combined Federal Campaign, and by far the biggest “CFC” campaign is here in the Washington area. Last year, the D.C. campaign raised nearly $50 million for charities.

However, the number of federal employees, postal workers, and military personnel who choose to give through the CFC — both in D.C. and across the country — has been plummeting during the past five years.

Nationally, the campaign has lost nearly a half-million donors. The

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national capital area campaign has lost more than half its donors.

This is unfortunate, not just for the charities that rely on CFC funding through the year, but also for employees. Here’s why: ■ No other employees have the wide choice of charities to support as do people who work for the federal government. In the national capital area, employees can support more than 4,400 charities, ranging from big charities that support struggling people in other countries to small charities that serve people who are losing their homes down the road.

Donors can also support charities that work in many different ways to help people — charities that provide direct services such as shelters for the homeless or charities that advocate for government to help build more affordable housing.

There was a big fight in the 1980s to make it possible for federal workers to decide for themselves the kind of charitable work they would like to support.

■ Every charity in the CFC has met a series of accountability standards, such as having an audit.

People can certainly give online, but when they do, unless they do a lot of research, there is no way to know if the charity they choose to support is legitimate and accountable.

■ Through the CFC, donors can find out about charities they didn’t know about but which are doing exactly the kind of work they want to support. Most people know about the big charities with strong “brands.”

It’s easy to go online and support them. But there are thousands of charities in this area alone that are doing important work, but which don’t have marketing budgets and don’t have broad name recognition.

These are the kinds of charities many people would like to support. They are smaller, so individual donations mean more to them. They are often led by deeply motivated staff and volunteers.

They are often trying new approaches or working on new challenges.

People can learn about and support charities like this through the CFC. ■ By giving through the CFC, donors support charities in a way that really makes a difference to all of them, both large and small. Employees do this by having a little deducted from each paycheck.

Not only does that allow them to give more, it also gives charities a steady stream of support through the year, which allows them to plan and do more.

All the challenges that federal workers have faced over the past several years — no raises, sequesters, shutdowns, and uncertainty — make it obvious why many federal employees have stopped participating in the CFC. But, the result of this decline has really impacted hundreds, if not thousands, of smaller charities that are doing important work and depend on the steady donations they had been receiving through the CFC. Please think about this when you get your CFC pledge card this year.

pennsylvania I vanessa orr

“It’s a Wonderful Life” in Indiana County, Pennsylvania Many places claim special connections to the holidays, but Indiana County, Pa., may have a slightly better claim than most. After all, it’s “The Christmas Tree Capital of the World.” But just as importantly, it’s the hometown of actor Jimmy Stewart and is believed to be part of the

inspiration for the town in Stewart’s holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life.

You can find your own holiday inspiration on a visit to check out important sites from his boyhood and at the Jimmy Stewart Museum. The attraction displays memorabilia from his Hollywood days, but also items Indiana Co. Tourism

representing other aspects of his life, including his military service, civic service, and family life. A timeline layout presents items donated by family and friends and there is a 50seat theater featuring The Making of It’s a Wonderful Life. There also are weekly showings of his many movies.

Insider tip: Create your own memory with a photo taken in front of the 9-foot-tall statue of Stewart, located next to the museum on the lawn of the Indiana County Courthouse.

Indiana boasts more than Jimmy Stewart. The Historic Sixth Street Mansion Walking Tour includes 15 historic structures in a four-block area and the Indiana Historical Society Museum holds exhibits relating to local Civil War connections, coal mining, World War II, and Native American history.

Then, there’s the Christmas tree countryside to explore. Tour Fleming’s Christmas Tree Farm on a horse- or tractor-drawn hayride. Pick out a tree or browse for wreaths and decorations in the gift shop.

If you time your trip for Nov. 20, join in the It’s a Wonderful Life Parade and Festival, 5:00–9:00pm downtown. It’s an old-time holiday festival with a colorful parade, music, free crafts for children, local artisans, food, hayrides, and Santa lighting the tree.

Indiana boasts 40 diverse restaurants to choose from, offering everything from gourmet to ethnic fare as well as local craft brews, wine, and spirits.

Nearby, the Amish community of Smicksburg gets into the holiday spirit with its annual cookie tour on Nov. 14, when you can walk from shop to shop sampling the goodies.

You can also get an advance look at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, located in nearby Jefferson County, where famous Punxsutawney Phil will make his annual prediction on Feb. 2.

Learn more Indiana Co. Tourism: visitindianacountypa.org

The Jimmy Stewart Museum contains memorabilia from throughout Stewart’s life, including the Hollywood years.

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travel line I carol timblin

NEW charms in Baltimore include unique amenities, foodie tour A recent visit to Baltimore opened my eyes to the wonders and charms of the city that I had never before realized.

We stayed at the Hotel RL on Redwood Street, two blocks from the Inner Harbor. A new brand launched by Red Lion Hotels, and the first hotel in the group to open, it is unlike any other hotel I have ever visited. It’s casual, friendly, comfortable, and convenient to attractions, restaurants, shopping, and transportation. (The hotel is a short walk to the Water Taxi and the stops for the free Charm City Circulator and light rail, plus Uber taxi service is always just around the corner.)

Apollo Transportation was waiting for me at the BWI Airport, and within a short time I arrived at the front door of the hotel. I was greeted by name upon arrival by the friendly staff and directed to my spacious, modern room, which sported not only a queen bed outfitted in nice linens but a twin Murphy bed made especially for the hotel. The room offered an array of amenities, including a huge shower, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Large windows provided a great view of the Chesapeake Shakespeare Theatre across the street.

After depositing my luggage, I returned to the lobby, where I enjoyed my first cup of free Victrola coffee, a West Coast brand. Another hotel perk is free coffee anytime — from lattes to cappuccinos. The menu features breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, plus a good selection of wine and beer. The lobby has plenty of places to plug in your electronic devices, comfy couches where you

can read or relax, and interesting quotes on the walls. My favorite was “Curosity is the only compass you need.” There’s also a large game room with a plethora of board games for guests.

A unique feature of the hotel is its “living stage,” with lighting and sound equipment, that can be used 24/7 if you feel like breaking into song. Local artists, including some talented staff members, often perform there. The cluster of steps facing the stage — also a unique feature of the hotel — is a good place to enjoy the music.

Guests may work out in the fitness room on the lower level or take a ride around town on the complimentary white bicycles, which were featured on Shark Tank. If you need help with anything, there’s always someone in the reception area of the lobby to help you. (Tennille, who always wears a smile and has a degree from Johnson & Wales, is outstanding.) The nicest thing about the Hotel RL is that it feels so much like home.

And, should you feel a little lonely, the hotel’s dog, Jake, is there to cheer you up. Another Hotel RL will be opening in D.C. (redlion.com/ rlbaltimore)

Touring the city During our visit we learned about Baltimore’s interesting history on a Trolley Tour, which included a stop at Fort McHenry. And, who could ever forget the Charm City Foodie Tour (baltimorefoodtours.com) around Fells Point?

To get to the historic area, which dates to 1763, we took the Water Taxi from the Inner Harbor and met

Wilmington Tourism

Hearth cooking demonstrations at the Collins-Sharp House are among the attractions at Christmas in Odessa, Del.

8 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

our guide, Andrew, a walking encyclopedia on the area’s history. Stops included The Admiral’s Cup (local beers), Ze Mean Bean (Polish pierogis), One-Eyed Mike’s (Grand Mariner), and Max’s Tap House (sliders, burgers, wings, and other fare), plus Baltimore’s famous Berger Cookies.

The city’s ethnic neighborhoods, where you can dine on foods from around the world, add to the overall charm of the city. During our visit, we also enjoyed a traditional crab feast at Bo Brooks on Lighthouse Point and a bountiful breakfast at Miss Shirley’s in the Inner Harbor.

We also explored the Living Seashore exhibit at the National Aquarium (aqua.org), followed by a visit to the American Visionary Art Museum, which opened in 1995 and honors art by self-taught, intuitive artists. It also includes the Jim Rouse Visionary Center, named for the visionary who help make the Inner Harbor a reality. The Mr. Eddy Lives exhibit runs through April 2016, and The Big Hope Show, which made its debut last month, continues through September 2016. (avam.org) (baltimore. org)

Holiday events around the Mid-Atlantic Towns and cities around the Mid-Atlantic are gearing up for the holidays, with many events and celebrations planned through the end of the year.

Visitors to Baltimore will find a new Waterfront Partnership Ice Rink and the German Christmas Village at the Inner Harbor, plus light displays all over the city during the holiday season. (baltimore.org) The lighting of the National Christmas Tree and the illumination of the Pathway of Peace will take place in Washington, D.C., in early December and continue evenings through Jan. 1, with live choral music offered on the Ellipse stage.

Gaylord National Resort’s ICE!, created from 5,000 blocks of ice by 40 international artisans, will return this season, Nov. 21–Jan. 3, with a new theme — “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town.” Plus, there are many other places to see light displays around the area, including the National Zoo. (washington.org) The Greater Wilmington and Brandywine Valley region offers a variety of holiday events this year, including Christmas tours in Odessa featuring private home tours, craft sales, holiday concerts, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus in December. In Old

New Castle, the annual “Spirit of Christmas” and “A Dickens Experience” events offer carolers, street vendors, actors recreating scenes from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, also in December.

During November, December, and into January “A Longwood Christmas” will be celebrated at Longwood Gardens, and “Yuletide at Winterthur” will be observed at Winterthur with decorations and musical performances (visitwilmingtonde. com) In Lancaster, Pa., Dutch Winter Wonderland features themed rides, visits with Santa, holiday treats, and the Royal Light Show, with thousands of twinkling lights. (dutch wonderland.com and discover lancaster.com) Children of all ages will love “Santa’s Paradise Express” and “The Night Before Christmas Train” at Strasburg Railroad. (strasburgrailroad.com and discoverlancaster.com) The Pennsylvania Christmas and Gift Show, celebrating the season’s finest decorations, holiday cuisine, arts and crafts, and music and dance groups, Dec. 2–6, will attract thousands of visitors to the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa. (pachristmasshow.com) On Dec. 13, in downtown Richmond, Va., The Valentine, the Museum and White House of the Confederacy, the John Marshall House, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the Virginia State Capitol, the Executive Mansion, St. John’s Church, the Egyptian Building, Monumental Church, and Beers House will host an afternoon of free admission, music, performances, children’s activities, carriage rides, gift shops, refreshments, and more.

A complimentary shuttle is provided between sites. (visitrichmondva.com) The popular “Polar Express Train Ride” will be offered by The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad in Elkins, W.Va., (mtn-rail.com), beginning Nov. 6 and by Baltimore’s B&O Railroad Museum (borail.org), Nov. 27–29. These experiences are very popular, so check for sold-out dates.

Road Scholar’s new adventures for 2016 Road Scholar is offering a new slate of learning adventures for 2016, including: “Santa Fe at Your Pace: Ease Into ‘The City Different’,” “Coastal California: Ventura, Cambria and the Hearst Castle,”

“Discover Delaware: America’s First State,” “The Sights and Sounds of the Virginia Coast and the Outer Banks,” “Miami Beach: A Story of Transformation,” “A Medley of Music in Lancaster County,” “Delray Beach: Florida’s Village by the Sea,” and “On-Screen in the Southwest: A History of Moving Pictures in New Mexico.”

Other offerings are: “Discover the Colors of Alaska and the Yukon’s Golden Circle,” “The San Juan Islands by Land and Sea: Hidden Anchorages,” “Learning in Celebration: Fascinating Topics in a Unique Community,” “Bay of Fundy: Circle of Tidal Wonders,” “Tampa Bay Sampler: Cuban Cigars, Greek

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Spongers, Spanish Art, and American Tycoon,” and “The Best of Virginia Beach.”

Plus, you can also enjoy: “Discovery Hikes and Adventures in Utah’s Grand Circle of Parks and Monuments,” “Walking Through History: Six Towns in Four States,” “Denali Discovered: Wildlife, Hiking, and Backcountry Wilderness Lodge,” “The World of Jane Austen and the Regency Period,” “Thean Best of Newcycling Spend afternoon Mexico and Arizona,” and “Valley along winding country roads of the Sun: Hidden Gems of scenic, Phoe- forested or exploring nix.” (800-454-5768 pathsor at roadscholar.

Tuckahoe State Park. com) Wilmington Tourism

Carol Timblin welcomes travel news at ctimblin@gmail.com

Living history at the Wilson-Warner House during Christmas in Odessa, Del.

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maryland I marie gullard

Maryland art communities stretch into every part of the state It’s pretty much a given that where there is a large city, fine art and entertainment flourish. Baltimore City alone boasts a symphony orchestra, an opera company, an internationally recognized music conservatory, Shakespeare companies, professional theaters, and three world class museums. There are galleries galore in the city, not to mention festivals, the largest of which, Artscape, is held every July.

However, outside of Baltimore, drive along any highway and back road and it won’t be long be-

fore you find flourishing arts scenes. The Maryland State Arts Council serves as both an umbrella and a supporting organization for local arts councils.

Maryland first lady Yumi Hogan is an accomplished artist herself and has lent her support to promoting the arts in the state.

Local arts and entertainment districts, promoted by county arts councils in Maryland, serve up culture and many forms of entertainment.

Here’s an alphabetical look at just some of the opportunities.

St. Mary’s Co. Tourism

Leonardtown boasts an active First Fridays program and many other arts activities.

Around the state Annapolis has been a center of Maryland culture for more than three centuries. Today, the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts is a learning center, exhibition space, and performing home to organizations like the Annapolis Symphony, Ballet Theatre of Annapolis, and other performing arts groups. (marylandhall.org) Theaters and galleries thrive in the capital city. Closer to Baltimore, the Chesapeake Arts Center (chesapeakearts.org) serves the north end of Anne Arundel County with performing and visual arts and classes.

In Calvert County, live theater, dance, and musical performances are held at the La Plata Campus of the College of Southern Maryland. The CSM Main Stage Theatre presents the musical Oliver, Nov. 12–20. The month of December features chorale and chamber choir concerts, barbershop and jazz ensembles, along with a dance performance, “The Magical Sounds of Winter,” on Dec 7. (calvertarts.org) Caroline County Council of Arts (carolinearts. org) engages folks with “Friday Nites in Caroline.”

Partnering with the county’s public library and Caroline Recreation & Parks, the council presents a new performing arts series with a range of entertainment for the whole family. Look for jazz performances classical concerts, dance recitals, and even comedy acts. The series is free in venues such as the library and local schools and runs October to March.

The Carroll Arts Center (carrollcountyartscouncil.org) is located in the former Carroll Theatre in Westminster. The brightly lit marquee beckons the entertainment lover from blocks away. Inside of the art deco façade, visitors can enjoy live performances as well as art exhibits. A variety of mediums is presented in the Members Show running

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Talbot County Office of Tourism 410-770-8000 | TourTalbot.org 10 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

MISTLETOE MART November 12 & 13: 10am-8pm November 14: 10am-4:30pm Church of the Ascension Westminster

GINGERBREAD VILLAGE FESTIVAL November 13-28: 9am-9pm TownMall of Westminster

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Make a Holiday memory! Visit one of our many Christmas Tree farms. See our website for a complete list of locations to find the best Frasier Fir, Douglas Fir, White Pine, or Scotch Pine this season.

800-272-1933 | www.CarrollCountyTourism.org

through Nov. 6, including painting, photography, and sculpture. Since everything on display is for sale, the visitor can take home a particular favorite as a souvenir of the visit. Onstage, a live production of A Christmas Carol ushers in the holiday season, with performances on Dec. 11 and 12. “A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas” features the Eric Byrd Trio Dec.18–20.

Western Maryland’s Garrett County Arts Council (garrettarts.com) operates the Gallery Shop located at 206 E. Alder St. in Oakland. Like an artistic oasis in the heavy snows that fall in the county, the shop displays the work of more than 150 artisans and crafters in exhibits that change every four months. Hundreds of items are for sale, including paintings, pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings.

Just a 10-minute drive from Deep Creek Lake, the shop is open year-round.

Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Chestertown is the home base of the Kent County Arts Council. (kentcountyartscouncil.org) Many of the live performances and fine art exhibits take place on the Washington College campus. A lecture series takes place at the Rose O’Neill Literary House, while the campus’ Hotchkiss Recital Hall at the Gibson Center for the Arts presents a free concert series.

Three additional venues, the Church Hill Theatre (a year-round community theater), The Mainstay, showcasing more than 40 live concerts a year, and The Garfield Center for the Arts at the Prince Theatre, ensure the performing arts flourish in the area.

Chestertown RiverArts offers exhibitions and classes and an annual artists’ studio tour the last weekend of October and first weekend in November. (chestertownriverarts.org)

car show on Nov. 7 and the Holiday Celebration on Dec. 5. The Chesapeake Heritage Center offers two exhibit halls which showcase the history and heritage of the area. The Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College hosts many exciting events throughout the year. The U.S. Air Force Concert Band performs all day on Nov. 11, in honor of Veterans Day. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, along with the Concert Artist of Baltimore Symphonic Chorale presents Handel’s Messiah there on Dec. 5.

The arts and entertainment district in St. Mary’s County is located in Leonardtown. (leonardtown.somd.com) First Fridays are a major event around the town square with shops, galleries, and restaurants open late for exploration and frequent special events.

Artists gather in the recently opened Leonardtown Art Center to sell their work and also offer demonstrations.

Antiques and art dealers gather at The Mary-

land Antique Center there, tempting the public to browse and buy. On Nov. 27, Christmas on the Square and the Annual Tree Lighting begin at dusk.

In Talbot County, the towns of Easton and St. Michaels each have an arts and entertainment area compacted within their main streets. (talbotarts.org) Often referred to as the “big city” of Talbot County, Easton’s First Weekends begin Friday night, when the town’s myriad art galleries, including Troika Gallery and the Academy Art Museum, come alive as artists present their works to the public. The iconic Avalon Theatre and Stoltz Listening Room host more than 150 live musical events annually.

With the cultural season in full swing, start clicking your way through all the Maryland arts scene has to offer.

For more information Maryland State Arts Council: masc.org RiverArts

Suburban Montgomery County The performing arts flourish in suburban Montgomery County as well. (culturespotmc.com) Choose an area and then decide on any number of theatrical and/or musical events. There are, for example, the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Rockville, Unexpected Stage Company and the Highwood Theatre in Silver Spring, The Olney Theatre Center in Olney, and Imagination Stage in Bethesda. The Music Center at Strathmore in Rob Glebe’s metalwork is among the creations visitors can see on the annual Chestertown North Bethesda is home away from home for the RiverArts Studio Tour.

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and also home to the National Philharmonic Orchestra. Aside from symphony performances, Strathmore presents a full season of other entertainment.

The Pyramid Atlantic Art Maryland’s Upper Eastern Shore on the Chesapeake Bay Center in Silver Spring Chestertown, Rock Hall, Betterton, Galena, Millington and the Waverly Street Gallery in Bethesda present changing exhibof its and evening workshops. “Open Studio Weekend: A Festival of the Arts” is presented at the Washington Artworks in Rockville Nov. 7–8. More than 70 artists Winery, bring to the event live Shopping, music, film screenings, Fishing, Sailing, Kayaking, and artwork for sale.

Art galleries, Museums, In Historic StevensPerforming Arts Theaters, ville, the jewel of Queen Farmers’ & Artisans’ Markets, Anne’s County (qac.

Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, org), first Saturdays are Quaint Beaches, Local Seafood and more. your ticket to an enterwww.kentcounty.com • tourism@kentcounty.com • 410-778-0416 taining visit. Enjoy the

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recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 11

culture I gwen woolf

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s season highlights its centennial Other orchestras and museums add to Maryland’s culture scene Betsy DeVore

The Washington County Fine Arts Museum is one of the finest small art museums in the nation.

Acclaimed violinist Hilary Hahn performs on stages around the world these days, but she was just 11 years old when she made her debut in 1991 with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. She’ll return to help celebrate the orchestra’s centennial with a performance of Dvorák’s Violin Concert, Nov. 19–21.

The orchestra, or BSO as it is commonly called (bsomusic.org), is dedicating its 2015-2016 season to its 100th anniversary observance.

A year-long series of concerts will include appearances by world-renowned artists, returning hometown artists, and premieres of new works.

A highlight will be the BSO’s Centennial Celebration Week, Feb. 10–14. On Feb. 11, a special anniversary concert will showcase violinist Joshua Bell, who will perform his own adaptation of Bernstein’s West Side Story Suite. (Some will remember Bell, who is internationally famous, as the musician who played incognito for 45 minutes at Washington’s

L’Enfant Plaza Metro subway station on Jan. 12, 2007, as an experiment initiated by Washington Post columnist Gene Weingarten. More than 1,000 people rushed past, but only a handful stopped to listen, and just one person recognized him. The busker collected $32.17 for his efforts, but the columnist won a Pulitzer Prize for the story.)

The Feb. 11 program will call attention to the history of the BSO, which held its first concert on Feb. 11, 1916. Originally funded by the city of Baltimore, the BSO has risen to become a world-class orchestra. Its 80 musicians give 130 performances a year with an annual attendance of more than 350,000.

The BSO presents classical, Off the Cuff, SuperPops, and Family series.

The group is led by Maestra Marin Alsop, who became the first woman to head a major American orchestra in 2007.

The orchestra performs yearround at its principal home at the

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore, and at its secondary location at the Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda. Joshua Bell will perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto at Strathmore on Feb. 13 as part of the anniversary celebration.

Other artists with BSO connections will appear during the season, including pianists Leon Fleisher and Andre Watts, music director Yuri Temirkanov, violinist Nadja SalernoSonnenberg, Baltimore native John Waters narrating Hairspray: In Concert, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The season concludes June 17–19 with Verdi’s Requiem, performed with The Choral Arts Society of Washington.

Other Maryland symphony orchestras The 2015-2016 season is also under way this fall for three other Maryland symphonies. continued on page 25

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holiday lights I ami neiberger-miller

Area holiday displays get you in the spirit of the season Maryland

Glowing and colorful light displays light up the nights throughout the region and remind us all of the magic of the season. Take a break from your holiday shopping and enjoy a stroll or drive through twinkling lights, fairytales, and images of yesteryear. Here is your guide to the area’s most spectacular light displays:

Annmarie Garden in Lights Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center Solomons 410-326-4640, annmariegarden.org Dec. 4–Jan. 2, 6:00–9:00pm (closed Dec. 7–9, 14–15, 24–25) $6 per person, free for ages 4 and under

This magical walking tour — on a quarter-mile protected path through glittering woods — features spectacular lights and “light sculptures.”

Guests are surrounded by mythical beasts, airplanes, pirates, princesses, circus performers, and much more. Enjoy the “Holiday I Spy” game, nightly entertainment, holiday ornament sales, and sweet treats.

Miracle on 34th Street Hampden, Baltimore City christmasstreet.com Dec. 2–Dec.31, dusk–11:00pm Free For a 67th year, residents of 34th Street set their block aglow with lights strung across the street from second story row house windows, as well as lighted and musical porch displays. Enjoy over-the-top front

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14 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

The Greatest Christmas Display in the USA Entertaining families for more than 65 years

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Weekends Nov. 7-26; Daily Thanksgiving thru Jan. 2 Bernville, PA • www.koziarschristmasvillage.com

lawn Christmas trees and giant inflatable snow globes. Sign the books on the Hosier family’s porch and leave your own special note.

Live entertainment and vendors are available on either end of the street. Drive through, or park and take in these extreme holiday decorations on foot.

Lights on the Bay Sandy Point State Park Annapolis 443-481-3161, lightsonthebay.org Nov. 21–Jan. 2, 5:00–10:00pm $15 per car or minivan; $28 per large passenger van, trolley, or mini-bus; $50 per bus This magnificent light show gleams on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Drive through more than 60 spectacular animated and stationary displays. Bring 3-D glasses to make the lights truly come alive.

Garden of Lights Brookside Gardens Wheaton 301-962-1453, montgomeryparks.org Nov. 27–Jan. 3, 5:30–9:30pm (Sunday–Thursday), 5:30–10:00pm (Friday–Saturday) $20 per car (Monday–Thursday), $25 per car (Friday–Sunday) Walk into a magical winter wonderland illuminated with more than 1 million dazzling colorful lights shaped into handcrafted, original art forms of flowers, animals, and other natural elements. Stroll through gardens decorated with twinkling tree forms, fountains, sparkling snowflakes, and more. Warm up with hot cocoa while you listen to musicians perform in the auditorium each night 6:30–8:00pm. The conservatory’s train display and beautiful decorations are free 10:00am–5:00pm, Dec. 5–Jan. 3 (closed Dec. 25).

Winter Lights Seneca Creek State Park Gaithersburg 301-924-2127, gaithersburgmd.gov Nov. 27–Dec. 31, 6:00–9:00pm (Sunday–Thursday), 6:00–10:00pm (Friday–Saturday), closed Dec. 25

$12 (Monday–Thursday) and $15 (Friday–Sunday) per car/minivan/ SUV, $20 per limo/passenger van, $30 per minibus, $70 per bus seating 70 or more See more than 365 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that light up the night on this 3.5-mile drive. Themed areas include Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Victorian Village, and the North Pole.

Mark your calendar for these special events: Wine Under the Lights (Nov. 20, 6:00–10:00pm), Run Under the Lights (Nov. 21, 6:00pm), S’more Lights and Trolley Rides (Nov. 22, 5:30–9:00pm), Leashes ‘n’ Lights (Nov. 24, 6:00–9:00pm).

Winter Festival of Lights Watkins Regional Park Upper Marlboro 301-218-6700, pgparks.com/festival_of_lights Nov. 27–Jan.1, 5:00–9:30pm $5 per car, $10 for multi-visit pass, $15 per mini-bus/limo, $25 per bus; free admission Dec. 25 Drive-thru holiday light show boasting a million glittering lights and dozens of displays, including Santa flying a helicopter and driving a fire truck.

Attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods/non-perishable items for donation to local food banks.

Northside Park at 125th Street and Bayside is the setting for an awardwinning holiday display. Take a tram through the fairytale displays, snap a photo with Santa, and sip hot chocolate in the heated Winterfest Pavilion.

Pennsylvania Christmas at Longwood Gardens Longwood Gardens Kennett Square 610-388-1000, longwoodgardens.org Nov. 26–Jan. 10, gardens open 9:00am, lights 3:30–9:00pm $18 per adult, $15 per senior, $8 per child Features extravagantly decorated trees throughout the conservatory,

as well as glamorous decorations in the music room and exhibition hall.

Outside, the Italian Water Garden is illuminated with a 20-foot tree form and the colorful fountains in the open air theater dance to holiday music, accented by half a million holiday lights. Timed admission tickets are required. Online purchase available.

Koziar’s Christmas Village Bernville, near Reading 610-488-1110, koziarschristmasvillage.com Nov. 7–Jan. 2 (weekends until Thanksgiving, then daily), 6:00– 9:00pm (Monday—Friday), 5:00– 9:30pm (Saturday), 5:00–9:00pm (Sunday) continued on page 38

Symphony of Lights Merriweather Post Pavilion Columbia 410-740-7570, hcgh.org/symphonyoflights Nov. 25–Jan. 2, 6:00–10:00pm $20 per car, $45 per van, $125 per bus This show features 75 animated and stationary displays along the drive-thru trail through Symphony Woods.

Koziar’s Christmas Village

The lights at Koziar’s Christmas Village appear magically as you drive over a hill.

Annmarie Gardens

Winterfest of Lights Ocean City 800-626-2326, ococean.com Nov. 19–Jan. 3, 5:30–9:30pm (Sunday– Thursday), 5:30–10:30pm (Friday– Saturday) Village Tram, $5 per person; children under age 12, free

Prince George’s Co. Parks

Watkins Regional Park hosts a drive-thru light experience near Upper Marlboro, Md.

A pathway leads visitors to the unique lighting installations at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden’s holiday lights display.

recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 15

west virginia I jane and marvin bond

What to do on a winter’s night in West Virginia’s mountains The sun goes down earlier in winter, posing the eternal question of what to do after dark. Actually, there are places in West Virginia where an earlier sunset is a distinct advantage.

Stargazers have two great places to visit that are far away from intrusive artificial light. Green

Bank Observatory in Pocahontas County is located in a nationally designated “quiet zone” where cell phone use is not allowed. You can tour the observatory and the Green Bank Telescope to find out what the scientists are looking for in the far reaches of the universe. Then, lie down and check

WV Dept. of Commerce

out the night sky for yourself. The facility is open on a winter schedule beginning Nov. 1 and visitors are welcome Thursday–Monday, 10:00am–6:00pm.

There’s a monthly star party, usually the second Saturday of the month, that begins at 5:00pm in winter.

The second great place to check out the stars is the Summit Observation Tower atop Spruce Knob.

At 4,863 feet, Spruce Knob is the Mountain State’s highest mountain and the observation tower makes the sunset seem that much closer. The remote “dark sky” location is said to be the darkest place in the Mid-Atlantic for stargazing. On clear nights, you don’t need a telescope to see details of the Milky Way, so it’s no wonder Spruce Knob is the location of the Almost Heaven Star Party, popular with top astronomy experts and hobbyists alike.

The 2016 event is in September. Spruce Knob is part of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, with more than 75 miles of trails and two campgrounds.

Check out the ghostly presence

When darkness comes, the Spruce Knob observation tower is an amazing place to stargaze.

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There’s still time to catch a ghost tour in the state’s Eastern Panhandle. Justin Stevens provides tours in his native Martinsburg, which has 23 historic districts and plenty of historic homes.

Stevens’ tours include one through old town Martinsburg, a South End Tour during which you visit a haunted jail, and a tour through spots with the most paranormal activity. Tours visit the city’s historic cemeteries and the historic Apollo Civic Theater,

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where there are different legends to explain the resident ghost. Reservations for the tours are recommended. (304-261-7470) Harpers Ferry is home to what is said to be America’s oldest ghost tour. Rick Garland leads the “O’ Be JoyFull” tours which last about 90 minutes. He leads a tour of the “Lower Town” of Harpers Ferry, telling stories about sites and buildings where unexplained or paranormal activity has been reported or is still being reported. You’ll also learn some of the history of Harpers Ferry, with its often violent past.

While the tour is “spooky,” it is not particularly scary according to Garland and is fine for most children. (harpers ferryghost20m.com)

in Thomas, and a host of restaurants and festivals.

All are dedicated to preserving unique Appalachian music. (mountainmusictrail.com) If all that’s not enough, there is still the option of curling up before a fire in one of West Virginia’s many mountain cabins — choose from spare to luxurious or from family-oriented to romantic couples’ retreats. You’ll find many options on the pages of Recreation News.

Mountain music Venues along West Virginia’s Mountain Music Trail offer yet another after-dark option.

Follow Route 219 from the towns of the northern counties down to the hills of Southern West Virginia. Along the way you’ll find venues such as the American Heritage Music Hall in Ronceverte, Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg, the Pocahontas County Opera House, the Purple Fiddle

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virginia I angela blue

Historic Triangle melds classic customs with new traditions Made up of three neighboring cities — Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown — Virginia’s Historic

Triangle brings out the best holiday traditions during a plethora of exciting events.

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Feasts and festivities Most holiday gatherings involve preparing and savoring a meal together. Take the opportunity to explore cooking and preservation methods from centuries ago during Jamestown Settlement’s and Yorktown Victory Center’s Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia, Nov. 26–28.

Those visiting on Thanksgiving Day should plan to stay for Thanksgiving Dinner in the Jamestown Settlement Café. Explore more holiday traditions during A Colonial Christmas, held Dec. 1–Jan. 3. (historyisfun.org)

Colonial celebrations The experience of learning about savory food preparation wouldn’t be complete without adding some sweetness. At Colonial Williamsburg, visitors of all ages will delight in the elaborate display of gingerbread houses in the Williamsburg

Inn, Williamsburg Lodge, and Williamsburg Woodlands. A professional team of chefs spend hours carefully assembling the houses, piping them with snow-white frosting, then decorating each one in intricate fashion.

Wythe Candy and Gourmet in Merchants’ Square can fill just about any request for holiday sweets.

Williamsburg’s memorable holiday experiences include a street theater version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and an Annual Christmas Homes Tour featuring houses gorgeously adorned with holiday florals.

Colonial Williamsburg’s Barbara Brown said, “The scent of hot cider, pine, and wood fires fills the air. The entire historic area is decorated with miles of pine roping and the natural decorations for which Colonial Williamsburg has been famous for over Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation

Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination on Dec. 6 includes fireworks and musical performances.

Enjoy a living history presentation of a Colonial holiday table at the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center.

18 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

the years, even though the decorations are different every year.�

An ideal time to view the captivating decorations of Colonial Williamsburg is during the Grand Illumination and Fireworks on Dec. 6. Stroll the Revolutionary City as you enjoy musical performances and delight in fireworks displays from three locations. (history.org)

Make the season bright The holiday season presents many additional opportunities to take in illuminated scenes, beginning with Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town (Nov. 27–Jan. 3). The theme park is lit up with more than 8 million lights that guests can observe on their way to catching a spectacular show, choosing a one-of-a-kind gift, dining in glorious holiday style, or visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus inside a whimsical workshop. (seaworldparks.com)

Newport News illuminates its city with two major attractions — Celebration in Lights (Nov. 26–Jan. 2), a 2-mile drive featuring enchanting animated scenes created with individual lights, and HollyDazzle (Dec. 5), a fireworks and special effects show choreographed to holiday music and culminating in the lighting of the city’s animated, lighted tree.

HollyDazzle is timed for the same weekend as the Grand Illumination so visitors can take in both events. (nngov.com) The same weekend, you can join the community of Yorktown at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 4 and Yorktown’s Christmas Market on Main on Dec. 5, featuring arts and crafts, strolling musical entertainment, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Later that evening, the water will be bedazzled with shimmering lights during the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade.

If you’d rather participate in a parade than watch one, plan to come for Yorktown’s Toyland Parade Dec. 12. Decorate yourself, a stroller, wagon, or even a four-legged friend and join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Polar Express to march through Riverwalk Landing. (yorkcounty.gov/ tourism) Bundle up tight and prepare to experience the joy and warmth that make the Historic Triangle truly sparkle during the holidays.

â– COMING THIS MONTH

Yorktown gets ready for the holidays during Market Days with fresh produce, meat and seafood, baked goods, and art, occurring Nov. 7 and 14, and the Yorktown Holiday Open House Weekend, Nov. 7–8.

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

45th Annual Candlelight Tour Fredericksburg, Virginia Sat., Dec. 12 & Sun., Dec. 13 11:00am – 5:00pm each day Visit these historic homes: 207 and 307 Amelia St., 1102, 1111, 1116 Prince Edward St., 1200 Charles St. (day tours only) & 1200 Prince Edward St. (optional evening tour only) A dvance tickets and information: www.hffi.org or 540- 371- 4504 A dult $ 25 • C hild ( 5- 11) $ 15 • G roup R ates A vailable Ticket includes admission to homes, tour book, entertainment, and refreshments.

Day-of Tour Tickets Available: $ 30 Bring or mail this ad to the HFFI Office, 1200 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 for a $ 2 discount on your tickets.

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Gettysburg offers visitors a range of holiday experiences No matter where you are, the holidays are a special time of year. But some destinations, such as Gettysburg, Pa., take extra care to make these occasions even more magical.

The town is home to a host of events that begin on Nov. 21 and last through New Year’s Eve. Santa holds a Meet and Greet every weekend through Dec. 19 at the Outlet Shoppes in Get-

tysburg, and families can take a ride on the Tannenbaum Train to pick out their special trees in nearby New Freedom, Pa. Craft shows, candlelight Christmas tours, and free carriage rides are held throughout the season, and there are many opportunities to enjoy all of the delicacies this time of year has to offer from downtown cookie walks to holiday luncheons hosted by the Lodges at Gettys-

Gettysburg Tourism

burg to a Christmas feast at the Fairfield Inn. If your holiday isn’t complete without hearing from Tiny Tim, mark your calendar for the week of Dec. 6 — starting that Wednesday, actors adorned in classic period costumes will be presenting the Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol at the Majestic Theater. “Now in its second year, this is just a beautiful, beautiful production,” said the theater’s Jeffrey Gabel. “It’s very true to the Dickens’ story, and is sure to put you in the spirit of the season.”

The show, which includes professional theater actors from the Totem Pole Playhouse and children and amateur performers from the community, will run on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:00pm, and on Friday and Saturday at 8:00pm. Ticket prices range from $20 for students to $36, and group tickets are also available. (gettysburgmajestic.org)

Holiday house tour If you’d like to enjoy the history and architecture of the area while also celebrating the season, make plans to attend the 19th annual Holiday House Tour, sponsored by the Inns of the Gettysburg Area. Ten properties are featured on the tour, including Christ Lutheran Church, the Historic Gettysburg Adams County House, the Daniel Lady Farm, the Lightner Farmhouse, James Getty Hotel, Swope Manor, Inn at Herr Ridge, the Dobbin House, the Baladerry Inn, and South Central Community Action Programs.

“It’s a full-day event that starts with a special tour of the Dobbin House from 9:00 to 11:00am, and ends with a performance of Songs and Stories from a Civil War Hospital at Christ Lutheran Church at 8:00pm,” explained Judy Caudill, owner of the Music is a great part of the holidays in Gettysburg, along with the tree in Lincoln Square.

Gettysburg Tourism

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The Majestic Theater presents A Christmas Carol, complete with Scrooge and Tiny Tim.

Baladerry Inn. “Each location will be offering a different food and drink made especially at that property, and all of the money we raise will benefit SCCAP, whose chef is also preparing a special snack for guests.”

Visitors staying at any of the IGA’s member inns that weekend can take the tour for free; otherwise, admission is $15 per person. (gettysburgbedandbreakfast.com) Gettysburg Tourism

“Whether you’re coming in as part of a bus tour, or for a family visit, there are so many things to do in Gettysburg over the holidays,” said Gabel, adding that many organizations in the area, from merchants to innkeepers to nonprofits, are working in partnership to provide visitors with the best guest experience. “You can tour the battlefield, which is beautiful in the wintertime, take in a performance, enjoy lunch or dinner at one of our amazing restau-

rants, and spend time shopping for holiday gifts at our unique stores. It’s a magical place to experience the season.”

Insider tip: Gettysburg is also a great place to ring in the New Year, so make your reservations now.

For a comprehensive list of things to do in Gettysburg over the holidays, visit the events page at destinationgettysburg.com or call 800-337-5015.

Gettysburg Tourism

The holiday tour presented by the Inns of the Gettysburg Area includes something unique at each stop.

Gettysburg gets all dressed up for the holidays, especially around Lincoln Square.

We invite you to celebrate the holidays in Gettysburg! Our small-town charm brings you back to the joys of the season.

Experience 40 events Thanksgiving through New Year’s, including live performances of A Christmas Carol at the grand Majestic Theater presented by Totem Pole Playhouse. Make Gettysburg your holiday getaway!

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RUISE

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10 IDEAS for your CRUISE bucket list Since the days of The Love Boat, cruising has evolved, creating a rich palette of choices. Veteran cruisers often began their cruising repertoire by stumbling into a Caribbean cruise and, as enjoyable as that is, many eventually wish to expand their horizons (pun intended) to other types of cruising.

We’ve developed our personal Top 10 list. Having been on more than 50 cruises, we are always asked which one was our favorite. The truth is that we can’t really choose just one, since each brought unique pleasures and experience. Here are 10 categories you really should consider:

1. Alaska cruises You’ll see majestic scenery that rivals that of the best nature shows on TV, as well as witness wildlife such as spawning salmon, whales, bald eagles, and other species. Many people claim these trips

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Seasonally, these are only available late May through early September. Holland America dedicates more than half of its fleet to this venue when it is “in season.”

2. Riverboat cruises These cruises are mostly in Europe, on rivers that larger vessels simply can’t get to. Most things you’d like to see in Europe, such as old castles, cathedrals, and 1,000-plus-year-old buildings, are typically clustered within walking distance of each other, near where the boats dock — after all, rivers were the key to trade in prior millennia.

Most excursions and wine-pairing meals are included, too. And, some American river cruises are also available.

3. Scandinavia/Baltic cruises These cruises are a great way to see many capital cities on the Baltic rim, including St. Petersburg, Russia (a cruise voids the need for

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Christmas in St. Michaels is an annual Chesapeake tradition It’s as much a part of Christmas as candy canes and carols. This year, Christmas in St. Michaels is Dec. 11–13, a weekend of holiday fun on Maryland’s Eastern Shore that is also a quintessential small town celebration.

Saturday starts with a breakfast with Santa at the Town Dock. The annual Christmas parade follows with bands, antique cars, horses and llamas, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Throughout the weekend, the Marketplace and Santa’s Wonderland are open for shopping and entertainment. Union United Methodist Church serves its Eastern Shore Christmas Dinner with turkey, ham, oysters, sweet potatoes, and all the other traditional goodies.

The gingerbread display and contest this year adds model trains, which roll through the villages created by the fanciful houses. Touring the deco-

Christmas in St. Michaels

rated houses in the historic district and outlying estates is another of the annual favorites that takes place on both Saturday and Sunday. The featured homes in town are all within walking distance of each other and those outside of town are reached by a shuttle service included in the cost of the tour ticket.

The Mid-Shore Community Band and Jackson Jubilee Singers keep seasonal music in the air on Saturday.

The weekend finishes with the Celebration of Choirs on Sunday evening at St. Michaels Mission Church. (christmasinstmichaels.org)

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The annual gingerbread house display is a much anticipated part of Christmas in St. Michaels.

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Gas prices are down and the weather is cooling down, too. It’s time to get in to the RV and travel up, down, and around the great USA! There are dozens of RV parks you can choose from but you should definitely check out the Defense Logistics Agency RV camp. It is located just a few minutes from the great restaurants and entertainment venues of downtown Richmond, Va. The camp is a perfect getaway from everyday life, stress, and noise.

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This Holiday Season

There is also a screened-in, lighted gazebo to keep the bugs away in the summer. For guests with “furry” family members, there is plenty of green space for pets to run and play. There is even a doggie waste bag station for campers’ convenience.

Another highlight is the famous elk herd on the installation. No other campground in the area gives you the opportunity to observe these majestic animals.

The next time you are in the Richmond area, stop at the DLA RV camp for a few days. You’ll enjoy your stay.

For additional information, visit mwrrichmond.com or call Outdoor Recreation for reservations at 804-279-1094.

Happy travels!

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THE RECREATION NEWS MEDIA GROUP www.RecreationNews.com Recreation News • Weekend Update E-mail The Travel Radio Show and Podcast Visit us on Facebook!

E-mail: Publisher@RecreationNews.com 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 Phone: 410-638-6901 • Fax: 410-638-6902 © 2015, Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Recreation News (ISSN 1056-9294) is the official publication of GovEmployee.com and GovEmployee.com, and is published monthly by the Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Subscriptions by mail are $15 per year (12 issues). Corporate and bulk employee subscriptions are free. Contact the publisher at the address or telephone number listed above. Items in Recreation News may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written consent.

Publisher - Karl Teel Editor - Marvin Bond Calendar Editor - Jessica Bosse Account Executive - Lynn Talbert Copy Editor - Andrea Ebeling Cover Design - Debbie Palmer Web Support - Ron Yarnick Layout & Art - Beth Wood Accounting - Patti Sottile

culture continued from page 12 The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (annapolissymphony.org), which gives classical, pops, and family concerts at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, will present selections

by Debussy, Dvorák, and Brahms, Nov. 13–14.

“New Beginnings” is the theme for the 19th season of the Frederick Symphony Orchestra (frederick symphony.org), which has two new faces: music director Glenn Quader and assistant conductor Andy Rosenfeld. The orchestra, whose concerts are held at the Frederick Community College’s JBK Theater, will feature season favorites Dec. 12 with its concert, “A 1945 Christmas at Holiday Inn.”

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The Maryland Symphony Orchestra (marylandsymphony.org), which operates out of the Maryland Theatre in Hagerstown, offers a Masterworks Series, as well as pops and youth concerts. Its Dec. 12–13 concerts, “Home for the Holidays,” will celebrate the Christmas season.

A brush with the arts Major art museums in Maryland also are planning new exhibitions.

The Baltimore Museum of Art (artbma.org), which has been steadily renovating its facilities over the past few years, just opened its new Center for People & Art with the show Imagining Home. The exhibition features 30 artworks from the museum’s collection depicting the theme of “home.”

The new center incorporates video, audio, and other interactive

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elements. The museum reopened its expanded African and Asian galleries earlier this year.

The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore (thewalters.org) will have its first major exhibition of Islamic Art Nov. 8–Jan. 31 with Pearls on a String: Artists, Patrons, and Poets at the Great Islamic Courts. A second new show, running Nov. 14–Feb. 7, is Gérôme and His Circle: Travel, Art, and Business in the Middle East, about a French artist who was the focal point of an international network of mid-19th-century painters.

The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Hagerstown (wcmfa. org) is going nostalgic with its exhibition, Golden Legacy: Original Art from 65 Years of Golden Books, Nov. 7–Jan. 17. The museum, one of the finest small art museums in the nation, will host its annual Cumberland

Valley Art Exhibition Jan. 23–April 10.

Waterfowl decoy carving, a popular Chesapeake Bay folk art tradition, is celebrated at two museums.

The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art at Salisbury University on the Eastern Shore (wardmuseum.org), which showcases decorative and antique decoys, plans a new exhibition, Larry Barth: Birds, Art & Design, March 11– Aug. 21. The museum will sponsor the annual Ward World Championship carving and art festival April 22–24 at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City.

The Havre de Grace Waterfowl Museum (decoymuseum.com), which has an extensive collection of working and decorative Chesapeake Bay decoys, will hold its annual Decoy and Wildlife Art Festival May 6–8.

recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 25

yellowstone I reed hellman

Have a plan for lodging in the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone As the National Park System celebrates its centennial, Recreation News will be looking at both iconic and regional units of the National Park Service. And, even city-bound, high-rise urbanites know the NPS’ Yellowstone and the Tetons as the iconic American wilderness. Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, and the Grand Tetons, to the south, open a landscape from a time before Lewis and Clark.

Last year, some 4 million people entered Yellowstone, raising annual visitation by a third and making in-park accommodations nearly impossible to find. While portal towns offer some quality economy accommodations, staying inside the parks adds intimacy, proximity, and immediate access to a range of park-sponsored activities.

Within the parks, the lodgings serve as hubs for adventure. The Jackson Lake Lodge in the Tetons is typical, with visitors joining hikes, trail rides, raft trips, fishing, and ranger-led activities, or simply reveling in the main lobby’s panoramic view of the Teton Range. It also offers a variety of accommodations, several shops, and numerous dining options.

Just before dusk, diners and drinkers on the Blue Heron Lounge’s deck frequently see moose and other megafauna on the expansive plain stretching out to Mount Moran.

Lodging concessionaires in both parks meet challenging standards for sustainable and ecologically appropriate operations.

The Grand Teton Lodge Company and Yellowstone’s Xanterra make a point of their commitment to sustainability and gentle interactions with the environment. Some park lodgings have even begun a program of incentives to guests for reducing the amount and impact of housekeeping services.

Autumn in the park Regardless the corporate policies or park regulations, in autumn at Mammoth, Yellowstone’s Reed Hellman

Reed Hellman

The classic view of the Grand Tetons from Jackson Hole is inspiring in any season. administrative hub, the backcountry and front the scenic pull-offs, out into the 99 percent of the country mingle in a bizarre ballet. Cars, grumparks that people rarely visit. bling big trucks, recreational vehicles, and legions Yellowstone’s iconic Old Faithful Inn serves of tourists maneuver around Big Bob, the boss bull as trailhead for numerous paths leading through elk of the Parade Ground herd. Across from park nearby geyser fields or up onto the surroundheadquarters and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, ing heights. The world’s largest log building, the a towering 12-point royal elk guards his harem of inn features an 85-foot tall lobby, a huge rough three dozen cows and spars with rival bulls on the stone fireplace, overhanging balconies, and railopen parade grounds and onto the boulevard meings made of spectacular twisted gnarled logs. A dians. night’s stay can include seeing the Old Faithful For too many visitors, their automobile’s windgeyser firing silver-white under a full, howlingshield frames their park experience. A park lodgwolf moon. ing can serve as a home base for going beyond Because of the network of roads that connect the parks’ major attractions, accommodations outside of the parks can be convenient, as well as economical. However, spinning-out stories of the day’s exploits at the Old Faithful Inn’s Bear Pit Bar or gracefully dining at the Lake Hotel can be as quintessential a park experience as seeing buffalo herds or rafting the Snake River.

Insider tip: To ensure your opportunity to enjoy lodgings inside Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, make your reservations well in advance. A year is not too soon.

Know the park’s properties and what each offers, and then plan where you’d like to stay. Also, plan a second choice and be flexible with your dates and choices. And, be prepared to fill any gaps with out-of-park accommodations, such as the Yellowstone Park Travel Lodge in Gardiner, Mont., or The Virginian Lodge in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Go offseason; try mid-autumn when the crowds of visitors have thinned and many of the animals are very active and more visible.

For more information Old Faithful Inn is among the most iconic of the National Park lodges.

26 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

Grand Teton Lodge Company: gtlc.com Yellowstone National Park Lodges: yellowstonenationalparklodges.com

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Limited time offers. While supplies last. Activ. Fee: $36/line. Credit approval req. Lease: Credit approval req. Monthly lease payments exclude taxes (varies by area). Terms for all other customers will vary including amount due at signing and taxes/fees. No equipment security deposit required. Req. qualifying device and service plan. Upon completion of lease term, customer can continue to pay monthly lease amount, purchase, return, or trade-in the device. Must remain on qualifying service plan and in good standing for duration of lease. Customer is responsible for insurance and repairs. Early termination of lease/service: Remaining lease payments will be due immediately, and requires device return or payment of purchase option device price in lease. iPhone Forever: Applies to upgrade eligibility on lease.

Upgrade does not include same-generation model iPhone. Does not guarantee monthly payment amount, phone selection, or service plan rates. Contingent upon product availability. Not transferrable. $15 Promo: Req. trade-in of smartphone in good working condition that is not on current lease or Sprint Easy Pay. Promo price does not apply to any future upgrades. SDP Discount: Avail. for eligible company employees or org. members (ongoing verification). Discount subject to change according to the company’s/org.’s agreement with Sprint and is avail. upon request for select monthly data svc charges.

Discount only applies to data svc for Sprint Family Share Pack, Sprint $60 Unlimited Plan and Unlimited, My Way plans. Not avail. with no credit check offers or Mobile Hotspot add-on. Other Terms: Offers and coverage not available everywhere or for all phones/networks. Available at participating stores. May not be combined with other offers. Restrictions apply. See store or sprint.com for details. © 2015 Sprint. All N155484 rights reserved. Sprint and the Sprint logo are trademarks of Sprint. iPhone is a trademark of Apple Inc. Other marks are the property of their respective owners.

MV1234567

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cruising I michelle teel

Cruising from Baltimore offers perks to military passengers Thinking of taking a cruise? Consider cruising from Baltimore because it’s easy, less expensive, and very convenient. The Port of Baltimore’s (cruise.maryland.com) cruise terminal is only 2-1/2 miles from Baltimore’s world famous Inner Harbor and just 10 miles from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. It is also the closest drive-to port for the more than 40 million people who live within a six-hour drive. Cities like Chicago, Cleveland, Indianapolis, New York, and Pittsburgh are all within driving distance.

It dramatically increases the affordability of the cruise because the cost of traveling to the cruise terminal is almost negligible compared to the cost of paying for flights and the shuttle to the cruise terminal required when you cruise from other ports, such as those in Florida. All of that extra cash can be used to make a cruise much less expensive, allowing you to spend money you otherwise would not have available to enjoy an upgrade to a balcony or suite, to put toward onboard expenses (including your bar bill), or to take one or possibly several very memorable excursions.

Getting to the cruise terminal is a snap because it is so convenient. If you drive to the port, there is a secure parking lot right off I-95, located so close to the ship you could choose to walk to the

terminal after dropping your luggage off with the porters. Possibly the best deal for inexpensive parking is to book a night at one of several downtown hotels that offer a free shuttle ride to the port and allow free parking for the whole cruise.

Another option is to use one of the airport shuttle services for a discounted price and a free shuttle ride to the port. Want to take the train? Baltimore’s Penn Station is only about 10 minutes away by taxi, making for both a quick arrival and departure.

Cruising from Baltimore is very affordable. The port of Baltimore has plenty of year-round offerings to choose from. The Grandeur of the Seas is the ship that has called Baltimore its home port for Royal Caribbean for years. It was recently refurbished and includes everything you have come to expect from a cruise on a Royal Caribbean ship: rock wall, jogging track, spa, adult-only solarium, casino, arcade, kids’ programs, culinary experiences, aerial acrobatics in the centrum, stateof-the-art staterooms, a 220-square-foot outdoor movie screen, and much more. The ship has 11 decks to hang out on, eight bars and lounges for partying, and six pools and whirlpools for relaxing.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises from five to 12 days in length from the Port of Baltimore to destinations in the Bahamas, Bermuda, Eastern Carib-

bean, Western Caribbean, Southern Caribbean, New England, the southeast coast of the U.S., and the Antilles (the islands of St. Thomas, Barbados, Antigua, St. Lucia, and St. Maarten) through the end of 2015 and beyond. Check with Royal Caribbean (royalcaribbean.com) for special pricing for those with military, police, firefighter, and EMT credentials.

As part of Military Appreciation month, members of the military can reserve a Royal Caribbean cruise that departs on Dec. 1 or after and receive up to $50 to spend onboard, in addition to the currently available offer.

Book a cruise of 5 nights or fewer and receive $25 to spend onboard, book a cruise 6 nights or greater and receive $50 to spend onboard. This offer is available Nov. 1 – 30. Any stateroom type is eligible for this promotion (interior, oceanview, balconies, or suites).

With the winter holidays right around the corner, now is the time to plan for one of the best gifts you can ever give your loved ones: the gift of a travel experience. It will provide memories that will last a lifetime, while the anticipation of blue sky, turquoise water, and white sand will fill their hearts with love and appreciation for such a wonderful gift.

Bon voyage from Baltimore!

from the Port of Baltimore

Gateway to your Getaway!

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VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL Nov. 5–8. Festival opens with highly anticipated Hank Williams film, I Saw the Light. Other highlights include upcoming features Ithaca, Son of Saul, Carol, The Lady in the Van, and a special sneak preview of the new PBS Civil War drama series, Mercy Street. Various venues, Charlottesville, Va. virginiafilmfestival.org

November 2015 November 11 Veterans Day November 26 Thanksgiving

HOLIDAYS

B&O VETERANS’ SWING DANCE Nov. 7, 7:00–11:00pm. Amateurs receive a 30-minute dance lesson beginning at 7:00pm. Beer, wine, sodas, and light snacks available for purchase. Costume or period dress encouraged, but not required. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. borail.org FREDERICK SYMPHONY MUSIC OF AMERICA Nov. 7. This Veterans Day program of American composers’ works will feature patriotic numbers, including The Liberty Bell march by John Phillip Sousa. Historical Society of Frederick County, 24 E. Church St., Frederick, Md. fredericksymphony.org MARCHING THROUGH HISTORY Nov. 7. Enjoy a parade through Ellicott City’s Historic District. 8334 Main St., Ellicott City, Md. 443-240-2060, visitellicottcity.com ANNUAL VETERANS DAY PARADE Nov. 8, 2:00–5:00pm. Flags line Main Street as local veterans groups ride by on patriotic floats accompanied by the Harrisonburg High School Marching Band and JROTC, Boy Scout Troops, civic organizations, and military vehicles. 212 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, Va. 540-432-8922, downtownharrisonburg.org/veteransday VETERANS DAY SALUTE Nov. 11. Special showing of D-Day: Normandy 1944; free for veterans. 5305 Piney Church Road, Waldorf, Md. 301-934-7464, ccboe.com/sciencecenter VETERANS DAY PARADE Nov. 11, 9:00am–12:30pm. In addition to the parade, a short ceremony will be held at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial immediately following the parade and a luncheon honoring veterans will be held at the Doubletree Hotel. Tidewater Veterans Memorial Park, Virginia Beach, Va. 757-467-9017, vbfun.com VETERANS DAY PARADE Nov. 11. Marching bands, military units, Scouts, floats, and local organizations honor veterans. Memorial ceremony follows. 22735 Washington St., Leonardtown, Md. 301-475-9791, visitstmarysmd.com VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE Nov. 11, 11:00am. The program will include special music, guest speakers, and recognition of all veterans. National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford, Va. 540-586-3329, dday.org VETERANS DAY CEREMONY IN YORKTOWN Nov. 11, noon–1:00pm. Letters from War is the theme of this annual event, during which all veterans are honored. York Hall, 301 Main St., Yorktown, Va. 757-890-3500, visityorktown.org THANKSGIVING LLAMA KISSES WITH PIE Nov. 21, 10:00am–2:00pm. Posey Thisisit Llama Farm, 754 Harrisville Road, Toms Brook, Va. 540-436-3517, poseythisisitllamas.com CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN BALTIMORE Nov. 26–Dec. 27. This outdoor and indoor holiday market has free weekday admission. West Shore Park, 501 Light St., Baltimore, Md. baltimore-christmas.com

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

OYSTERFEST Nov. 1. A celebration of the Chesapeake Bay oyster, this event features live music, culinary demos and competition, and boat rides. 213 N. Talbot St., St. Michaels, Md. 410-745-2916, cbmm.org

MUSEUM STORES OF RICHMOND HOLIDAY SHOPPERS FAIR Nov. 6–7. Museum gift shops sell their wares, including many specialty items. Museums included are: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Science Museum of Virginia, Agecroft Hall, Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen, Preservation Virginia, Library of Virginia, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Virginia Historical Society and The Valentine Museum. Lewis Ginter Gardens, Richmond, Va. 804262-9887, lewisginter.org MARYLAND IRISH FESTIVAL Nov. 6–8. Festival features traditional Irish food, drinks, dance, and music, in addition to children’s activities, cultural exhibits, and vendors. 2200 York Road, Timonium, Md. 410-598-1719, irishfestival.com GREAT AMERICAN INDIAN EXPOSITION Nov. 6–8, 9:00am–7:00pm. The powwow is an opportunity for the public to interact with American Indian dancers, singers, drummers, artists, and craftspersons. Richmond International Raceway, 600 E. Laburnum, Richmond, Va. 252-586-7913, rir.com CHILI AND CRAFT FESTIVAL Nov. 7. Enjoy a full-day event featuring crafts and a spectacular competitive chili cook-off. Trophies will be awarded for Best Chili, People’s Choice, and Showmanship. Bridgewater Plaza, Smith Mountain Lake, Va. visitvablueridge.com AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE DAY Nov. 7. Experience and discover the knowledge and traditions of America’s first culture. People will be teaching and demonstrating crafts and skills, plus there will be other fun things to watch, do, and learn. Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, 10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard, Md. 410-586-8512, jefpat.org POCOMOKETOBERFEST Nov. 7. This beer and wine festival will feature many local breweries and wineries, plus a variety of live entertainment. 6 Market St., Pocomoke City, Md. 410-957-1919, pocomoke.com/pocomoketoberfest FAMILY ART DAY Nov. 7. Enjoy drop-in art projects, interactive gallery activities, and story circles. Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, Md. 410-704-2808, towson.edu EASTPORT VS. ANNAPOLIS TUG OF WAR Nov. 7. Watch the 18th annual battle between the Maritime Republic of Eastport and the City of Annapolis. Music, dancing, food, and drinks on both sides. Chart House, Annapolis, Md. 410-268-7166, themre.org WATERFOWL FESTIVAL Nov. 7–9. This wildlife art and sportsmen’s expo is a celebration of small towns and a commitment to conservation. 40 S. Harrison St., Easton, Md. 410-822-4267 CHARM CITY FRINGE FESTIVAL Nov. 8–15. The festival will be spread across four venues with 10 performing companies, more than 30 acts, and a boatload of fun. 1727 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-688-8902, charmcityfringe.com MARYLAND IRISH FESTIVAL Nov. 13–15. This celebration of Irish culture will feature regional and international Irish music and dance, traditional cuisine, cultural exhibits, and vendors of Irish goods. 2200 York Road, Timonium, Md. 443-955-4513, irishfestival.com WILDLIFE HOLIDAY BAZAAR Nov. 14, 9:00am–3:00pm. Enjoy holiday shopping, plus family fun, with more than 20 craft vendors, a bake sale, thrift shop, live animals, free tram rides, origami ornament lessons, and Wildlife Bingo. National Wildlife Visitor Center, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, Md. 301-497-5772, friendsofpatuxent.org RENWICK FESTIVAL Nov. 14, 10:00am–5:00pm. Experience the gallery as never before, with craft making, artist demonstrations, musical performances, and games. Renwick Gallery, 1661 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-633-7970, americanart.si.edu/renwick RICHMOND CIDER CELEBRATION Nov. 14, 11:00am–4:00pm. Enjoy cider tastings, apple and cider dishes, and all-around apple-oriented fun. 100 N. 17th St., Richmond, Va. 804-646-0954, enrichmond.org OYSTER ROAST Nov. 14, 3:00–6:00pm. Enjoy all-you-can-eat fresh local Rappahannock oysters, fried seafood, chowder, sausages, a dessert buffet, craft beers, wine, rum and gin tasting, music, and raffles.

Virginia Living Museum, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News, Va. 757-595-1900, thevlm.org

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CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL Nov. 14–15, 11:00am–5:00pm.Visitors can sample and buy chocolate and related products, as well as see cooking classes and demonstrations. Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach, Va. 757-385-2000, virginiabeachchocolatefestival.com WINE JUST OFF THE VINE Nov. 14–15, 21–22. One ticket is good for tastings at all MasonDixon Wine Trail locations over both weekends, a souvenir wine glass, and a scavenger hunt theme; venues in Pennsylvania and Maryland. masondixonwinetrail.com SHENANDOAH UNCORKED WINE FESTIVAL Nov. 15, 10:00am–4:30pm. The festival will feature more than 10 Virginia wineries, plus food, kids’ events, fine crafts, and local agricultural displays, including antique tractors. The Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns, 470 Caverns Road, Quicksburg, Va. 540-477-2432 SUGARLOAF CRAFTS FESTIVAL Nov. 20–22. More than 350 of the nation’s finest artisans will display homemade crafts. 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg, Md. 800-210-9900, sugarloafcrafts.com RESTON HOLIDAY PARADE Nov. 27. Parade filled with Macy’s-style balloons, entertainment, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Following the parade are mini-train rides and visits and photos with the Clauses in the afternoon, as well as a tree lighting, sing-along, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Reston, Va. restontowncenter.com FESTIVAL OF TREES Nov. 27–29. Features decorated trees, a gingerbread town, shopping, endless holiday activities and non-stop entertainment for children of all ages. Maryland State Fairgrounds, The Cow Palace, 2200 York Road, Timonium, Md. 443-923-7300, festivaloftrees.com

NOW SHOWING TRI-STATE BOTTLE SHOW Nov. 1. Tables will be filled with display and sell bottles, jars, stoneware, small tabletop antiques, and other memorabilia and collectibles. 300 Newkirk Ave., Elkton, Md. 302-738-9960, ccgov.org WHITMAN EXPO Nov. 5–8. Coin and currency show. The Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. expo.whitman.com PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Nov. 6. Enjoy this Cecil County Arts Council exhibit. 135 E. Main St., Elkton, Md. 410-392-5740, cecilcountyartscouncil.org WORLD CUP FINALS Nov. 6–8. The largest motorsports event in Maryland will feature outlaw drag racing, a car show, and much more. 27861 Budds Creek Road, Mechanicsville, Md. 301-884-9833, mdirdrag.com ANTIQUE APPRAISAL FAIR Nov. 7–8, 10:00am–4:00pm. This is an opportunity for the public to bring family treasures and heirlooms for verbal appraisals by expert appraisers who have experience with a wide range of items. Belle Grove Plantation, 336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown, Va. bellegrove.org VIRGINIA HORSE SHOW ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONSHIPS Nov. 12–15. A four-day show that last year hosted more than 500 exhibitors. Virginia Horse Center, 487 Maury River Road, Lexington, Va. 540-464-2950, horsecenter.org

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES LAWYER’S FARM AND MOONLIGHT MAZE Through Nov. 1. Features five corn mazes, two pumpkin cannons, a pumpkin patch and hayride, a hay maze, a hay port, and a pedal cart track. 13001 Creagerstown Road, Thurmont, Md. 240-315-8133, lawyersfarm.com CHERRY CREST ADVENTURE FARM Through Nov. 7. More than 50 farm fun activities, games, and rides, plus the Amazing Maize Maze. 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, Pa. 717-687-6843, cherrycrestfarm.com FUEL FUND OF MARYLAND 5K TRAIL RUN Nov. 1. This family-friendly event features a 5K timed trail run, a 1-mile fun run, community booths, food trucks, kids’ activities, and more. 12975 Hall Shop Road, Highland, Md. 410-235-9080, fuelfundmaryland.org JUG BAY RUN/WALK FOR WILDLIFE Nov. 7. Run or walk along the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area. Proceeds support research, conservation, and nature education in the Patuxent River watershed. Patuxent River Park, Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-627-7755 10K ACROSS THE BAY Nov. 8. A beloved Maryland tradition is coming back in a new exciting format. This 10-kilometer course will take runners over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Bay Bridge, Stevensville, Md. 410604-2100

FREE NATIONAL PARK DAYS Nov. 11. Enjoy a fee-free day to explore national parks. 540-9993500, nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm BEST BUDDIES 5K Nov. 14. The second annual Best Buddies 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run; event has a $30 registration fee. Towson University, Unitas Stadium, Baltimore, Md. 410-327-9812, bestbuddiesmaryland.org FALL CLASSIC ROCKFISH TOURNAMENT Nov. 21–22. With more than 250 boats and 1,500 anglers regularly competing, the competition is larger than ever. Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, Md. 410255-5535, mssa.net/fallclassic HARBOR LIGHTS HALF AND 5K Nov. 21–22, 8:00am–1:00pm. This event features flat, fast courses, which run through historic downtown Norfolk, into beautiful old neighborhoods, and along the Hampton Roads Harbor. Norfolk, Va. 757-412-1056, harborlightshalf.com TURKEY TROT 5K Nov. 26, 8:30–11:00am. In addition to the race, events will be held for children and a raffle of outstanding food and wine items will help raise money to combat hunger in this country.

Merchants Square, 420 Prince George St., Williamsburg, Va. 757373-4174, mettleevents.com

MUSIC Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral THE BRIA SKONBERG QUINTET Nov. 5. The performance features an emerging powerhouse trumpeter on the New York jazz scene; pay-what-you-want admission. Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org ORCHESTRA AND DANCERS OF INDIA Nov. 6, 8:00–11:00pm. A lively musical journey from Rajasthan to Mumbai that characterizes the incredible India we know today. Ferguson Center for the Arts, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, Va. 757-594-8752, fergusoncenter.org MUNICH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Nov. 7, 8:00pm. One of Germany’s most venerated musical institutions, held in high esteem by audiences, critics, and experts alike. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, Va. 888-945-2468, cfa.gmu.edu

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB Leads hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and conservation events in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. amc-dc.org

MUSIC FOR A NEW WORLD Nov. 7. An audience and singer favorite, John Rutter’s magnificent Requiem is paired with a stunning new piece by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo, Sunrise Mass. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, Md. 410-263-1906, marylandhall.org

BALTIMORE ANNAPOLIS SAILING CLUB Year-round. Offers day-sailing events and seminars in Baltimore and Annapolis, Md., and Washington, D.C., and sailing excursions on the Chesapeake Bay. Free membership. 410-394-9483, mdsailing.com

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE CONCERT BAND Nov. 10. Join in honoring America’s veterans with the U.S. Air Force’s premier symphonic wind ensemble. Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org

CENTER HIKING CLUB Various hikes and locations in the D.C. metropolitan area. 703751-3971, centerhikingclub.org

JAZZ AT MEADE Nov. 15, 4:00–6:00pm. Vaughn Ambrose will bring his quartet to perform. Meade Memorial Episcopal Church, 322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria, Va. 703-549-1334

FREESTATE HAPPY WANDERERS Various walking trails and locations in Maryland. 410-437-2164, ava.org/clubs/freestate MOUNTAIN CLUB OF MARYLAND Leads weekly day hikes, overnight backpack hikes, bike and canoe trips, cabin, car, and tent camping, and maintenance of trails. mcomd.org POTOMAC APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB Leads weekly hikes and work trips in greater Washington, D.C., area. 703-242-0965, patc.net QUANTICO ORIENTEERING CLUB Hosts map and compass activities most weekends in the greater Washington, D.C., area. Suitable for all ages and skill levels; free beginner instruction. qocweb.org WASHINGTON AREA ROADSKATERS Year-round; check website for dates and times. Skaters leave from White House, Washington, D.C. meetup.com/washington-area-roadskaters

Popular/Other HAMPTON ROADS SOUL MUSIC FESTIVAL Nov. 7, 7:30pm. Event features Anthony Hamilton, Brian McKnight, Lalah Hathaway, and Tank. Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Va. 757-838-5650, hamptoncoliseum.org MOUNTAIN HEART Nov. 8, 7:30pm. Grammy- and CMA-nominated musicians from this acoustic bluegrass ensemble inject enthusiasm and energy into their live performances, fearlessly revolutionizing the way acoustic music is played. The Barns at Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, Va. 703-255-1900, wolftrap.org

BUMPER JACKSONS Nov. 20. Bumper Jacksons’ early jazz and country repertoire paints America’s story from New Orleans brothels to Appalachian hollers. Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons, Md. 410-326-2042, calvertmarinemuseum.com HERDMAN, HILLS, MAGSEN Nov. 20. Called a “genuine folk super group” by the Boston Globe, separately and together they have garnered countless accolades and awards. The Cellar Stage at Faith Community United Methodist Church, 5315 Harford Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-521-9099, uptownconcerts.com THE TEXAS TENORS Nov. 28, 8:00pm. Enjoy this Christmas concert at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center. 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Md. 410-723-8601, specialeventpro.com/concerts/#TTT

Theater BURLESQUE TO BROADWAY Nov. 6. This sizzling theatrical concert features powerful vocals and a live, hot big band. Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-600-2828, weinbergcenter.org OPERA! OPERA! Nov. 6–8. Students of Music for Stage and University Orchestra present a program of well-known opera arias, scenes, and overtures. Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, Md. 410-704-2839, events.towson.edu COMEDIAN DAVE ATTELL Nov. 6–8. DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-296-7008, dcimprov.com SEASAME STREET LIVE! Nov. 13–15. Explores the universal fun of friendship and celebrates cultural similarities, from singing and dancing to sharing cookies. Salem Civic Center, 1001 Roanoke Blvd., Salem, Va. 540375-3004, salemciviccenter.com LA BOHÈME Nov. 20–22. The ultimate date night opera, and the original story behind the blockbuster musical Rent, La Bohème is a masterwork by Puccini. Carpenter Theatre at Richmond CenterStage, Richmond, Va. 866-673-7282, vaopera.org

WANDERBIRDS HIKING CLUB Sundays. Various hikes and locations in Virginia. 703-242-0315, wanderbirds.org

Discover the joys of shopping at Maryland’s premier Christmas event in historic Frederick, MD. Nothing brings back the yuletide spirit quite like the Maryland Christmas Show. For the twenty-ninth season visitors from near and far will discover the joys of shopping at Maryland’s premier Christmas event. The Maryland Christmas Show, located in historic Frederick City, brings together many fine artisans and merchants to make your holiday shopping an enjoyable event.

NOVEMBER SUN

MON

TUES

WED THURS

Two consecutive weekends

22 29

27

FRI

SAT

20 21 27 28

Show is held the weekend %()25( BEFORE and the weekend of Thanksgiving.

DATES: Nov 20, 21, 22, 27, 28 & 29 LOCATION: Frederick Fairgrounds HOURS: Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sun. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

ADMISSION: Adults $8.00 Children $4.00 (10 and under) PARKING: $2.00 • No Pets Allowed INFORMATION: (301) 845-0003 www.marylandchristmasshow.com

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THE NUTCRACKER Nov. 28–29. The Washington Ballet performs to music by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, with choreography by Septime Webre.

THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE, Washington, D.C. kennedy-center.org

Theater ADULT DROP-IN DANCE CLASSES The Dance Institute of Washington, 3400 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-371-9656, danceinstitute.org DANCE PROGRAMS Weekends, 7:30–11:30pm. Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md. fridaynightdance.or

Exhibits Resources and Institutions Directory AMERICAN CIVIL WAR CENTER AT HISTORIC TREDEGAR 490 Tredegar St., Richmond, Va. 804-788-6480, tredegar.org AMERICAN UNIVERSITY MUSEUM AT THE KATZEN ARTS CENTER Ward Circle, at Massachusetts and Nebraska avenues, Washington, D.C. 202-885-1300, american.edu/cas/katzen AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, Md. 410-244-1900, avam.org THE BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org CARRIAGE HOUSE GALLERY AT EMLEN PHYSICK ESTATE 1048 Washington St., Cape May, N.J. 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278, capemaymac.org CARROLL ARTS CENTER TEVIS GALLERY 91 Main St., Westminster, Md. carrollcountyartscouncil.org

410-848-7272,

HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDEN Independence Avenue and Seventh Street SW, Washington, D.C. 202-633-1000, hirshhorn.si.ed

PRO SPORTS

LADEW TOPIARY GARDENS 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Md. 410-557-9570, ladewgardens.com MARYLAND HALL FOR THE CREATIVE ARTS 801 Chase St., Annapolis, Md. 410-263-5544, marylandhall.org MONTPELIER ARTS CENTER 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-953-1993, arts.pgparks.com NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART National Mall between Third and Seventh streets at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 202-737-4215, nga.gov NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CIVIL WAR MEDICINE 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-695-1864, civilwarmed.org THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION 1600 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-387-2151, phillipscollection.org REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM OF MARYLAND AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE 830 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. 443-263-1800, africanamericanculture.org SHAKESPEARE GALLERY Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St., Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu SURRATT HOUSE MUSEUM TOURS Surratt House Museum, 9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton, Md., 301-868-1121, surratt.org THE TEXTILE MUSEUM 2320 S St. NW, Washington, textilemuseum.org

D.C.

202-667-0441,

TUDOR PLACE HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDEN 1644 31st St., Georgetown, Washington, D.C. 202-965-0400, ext.

109, tudorplace.org VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum THE WALTERS ART MUSEUM 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org

Featured Exhibitions DELAWARE AND THE WAR OF 1812 Ongoing. Designed to raise awareness of the important role 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 MOUNT VERNON IN 3-D: THEN & NOW Through Nov. 20. The show features 20 rare historic images from Mount Vernon’s collection dating from the 1850s to the early 1900s, presented in 3-D form. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Va. mountvernon.org/3d

BALTIMORE RAVENS AT HOME Sunday, Nov. 1, vs. Chargers, 1:00pm Sunday, Nov. 15, vs. Jaguars, 1:00pm Sunday, Nov. 22, vs. Rams, 1:00pm

The Ravens play home games at M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell St., Baltimore, Md. For more information, call 800-927-2795 or visit baltimoreravens.com.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS AT HOME

Meet 400 Artist Entrepreneurs in Person!

Sunday, Nov. 15, vs. Saints, 1:00pm Sunday, Nov. 29, vs. Giants, 1:00pm

The Redskins play home games at FedEx Field, 1600 FedEx Way, Landover, Md. For more information, call 301-276-6050 or visit washingtonredskins. com.

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

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WASHINGTON CAPITALS AT HOME Thursday, Nov. 5, vs. Bruins, 7:00pm Saturday, Nov. 7, vs. Maple Leafs, 7:00pm Friday, Nov. 13, vs. Flames, 7:00pm Thursday, Nov. 19, vs. Stars, 7:00pm Saturday, Nov. 21, vs. Avalanche, 7:00pm Monday, Nov. 23, vs. Oilers, 7:00pm Wednesday, Nov. 25, vs. Jets, 7:00pm Friday, Nov. 27, vs. Lightning, 5:00pm

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

BALTIMORE BLAST AT HOME

Saturday, Nov. 7, vs. Mustangs, 7:35pm Saturday, Nov. 14, vs. Silver Knights, 7:35pm Saturday, Nov. 21, vs. Heat, 7:35pm The Blast plays home games at the Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, Md. Call 410-347-2020 or visit baltimoreblast.com

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32 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

BEARD WARS Through Nov. 30. This photography exhibition faces off portraits of Civil War generals against those of league members. The Valentine, Richmond, Va. 804-649-0711, thevalentine.org NELSON MANDELA: MADIBA Through Dec. 5. An exhibit of some of South African photojournalist Benny Gool’s images portrays the inspirational story of one of history’s most respected and compelling leaders. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore, Md. 443-263-1800, lewismuseum.org INGENUE TO ICON Through Dec. 31. In this special exhibition, more than 60 dresses and perfectly paired accessories, archival materials, and portraits illustrate the evolution of 20th-century fashion through the lens of one of its most prominent women, Marjorie Merriweather Post. Hillwood Estate Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-686-5807, hillwoodmuseum.org TIFFANY GLASS Through Jan. 3. Tiffany’s glass “paintings” make a memorable exhibit that includes windows, lamps, and opalescent flat glass, in addition to educational models illustrating how leadedglass shades are put together. You can even see forgeries of Tiffany’s work. Winterthur, 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, Del. Winterthur.org AGE OF LAWYERS Through Jan. 5. This exhibition offers a close-up look at the rapid increase of lawyers and legal actions in Shakespeare’s Britain. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. 202-544-4600, folger.edu PAUL SIMON: WORDS AND MUSIC Through Jan. 18. The exhibit will feature autobiographical films, videos of select performances, and more than 80 artifacts, chronicling the life, career, and creative inspiration of two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Paul Simon. Jewish Museum of Maryland, 15 Lloyd St., Baltimore, Md. 410-732-6400, jewishmuseummd.org ANDREW WYETH PLANT STUDIES Through Jan. 31. These botanical studies, rarely on public view, demonstrate Andrew Wyeth’s continual sense of discovery in exploring color and form and his abiding passion for nature.

Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art, 1 Hoffman’s Mill Road, Chadds Ford, Pa. brandywine.org WOMEN IN ART, CRAFT, AND DESIGN Through Feb. 28. The show presents more than 80 objects including furniture, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and art. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. nmwa.org GORDANA GERSKOVIC Nov. 4–29. Experimental photographer Gordana Gerskovic has an extraordinary eye: the ability to see the unseen and overlooked and to find art and splendor in the everyday and decayed. Foundry Gallery, 2118 8th St. NW, Washington, D.C. foundrygallery.org PEARLS ON A STRING Nov. 8–Jan. 31. The first international loan exhibition of Islamic art to foreground stories about people, emphasizing the role of human relationships in inspiring artistic creativity. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org DRAWINGS, PRINTS, AND SCULPTURES

BY LOUISE BOURGEOIS Nov. 15–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

WASHINGTON WIZARDS AT HOME Wednesday, Nov. 4, vs. Spurs, 7:00pm Tuesday, Nov. 10, vs. Thunder, 7:00pm Saturday, Nov. 14, vs. Magic, 7:00pm Tuesday, Nov. 17, vs. Bucs, 7:00pm Tuesday, Nov. 24, vs. Pacers, 7:00pm Saturday, Nov. 28, vs. Raptors, 7:00pm

HONORING TRADITION, INSPIRING INNOVATION Through Nov. 22. Each of these works were designed and completed by hand by weaving and knotting thousands of threads on a loom to create one cohesive composition. Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St., Dover, Del. 302-674-2111, biggsmuseum.org

RODIN Nov. 21–March 13. Organized by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Musée Rodin in Paris, this exhibition will feature 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. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum

History FAMILY HISTORY FESTIVAL Nov. 7. Free open-house style event with sharing and learning about local family history and genealogy. Maryland State Archives, 350 Rowe Blvd., Annapolis, Md. 410-260-6443, msa.maryland.gov

MILITIA MUSTER Nov. 7–8. Enlist with Odenton’s Company of Baltimore Rangers.

Stand in formation and learn proper musket drill just like a militiaman of the 17th century. Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater, Md. 410-222-1919 FOODS AND FEASTS OF COLONIAL VIRGINIA Nov. 26–28. At Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, Va., learn how food was gathered, preserved, and prepared by Powhatan Indians and English colonists. At the Yorktown Victory Center in Yorktown, Va., learn about typical Revolutionary War soldiers’ fare and trace the farm’s bounty from field to kitchen. historyisfun.org OLD MARYLAND FARM ACTIVITIES Old Maryland Farm, 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-218-6770 or 301-699-2544, pgparks.com MONTPELIER MANSION TOURS Sundays, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Montpelier Mansion, Route 197 and Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-953-1376

Lectures/Workshops/Classes CONTEMPLATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Nov. 1. Join veteran photographer Art Silverglate as he teaches about “the zone,” an elusive state-of-mind sought by amateur and professional photographers alike. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, Md. 410-727-4808, thebmi.org SIGN-PAINTING WORKSHOP Nov. 7–8. Join Brooklyn-based sign painter Brian Kaspr as he teaches about the disappearing industrial art form of hand-lettered signs. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, Md. 410-727-4808, thebmi.org PLANT COMMUNITIES THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME Nov. 10, 7:30pm. Explore spectacular perennials and learn how to use them in stable, layered, natural combinations that increase the ornamental, functional, and ecological value of your landscape. 4915 Greenspring Ave., Baltimore, Md. 410-821-5561 ADULT ART COURSES Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org GALLERY TALKS Thursdays, 1:00pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00pm. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-5731700, artbma.org

STAINED-GLASS CLASS Ongoing. Mat About You Gallery, 3774 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-8860, mataboutyou.com TRADITIONAL ART CLASSES Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org

TOURS KALORAMA HOUSE AND EMBASSY CANDLELIGHT TOUR Nov. 6, 5:30–8:00pm. The Woodrow Wilson House and neighboring homes and embassies will open their doors to patrons to explore the architecture and history of this magical neighborhood. 2340 S St. NW, Washington, D.C. woodrowwilsonhouse.org OLDE ELLICOTT CITY GHOST TOUR Nov. 6–28. New stories about very unusual occurrences are always coming to tour guides who relate the most recent eyewitness accounts of paranormal activity. 8267 Main St., Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-1900, visithowardcounty.com/ghost-tours TRAILS AND TREES STUDIO TOUR Nov. 7–8, 10:00am–5:00pm. The tour is an opportunity to leisurely roam the scenic back roads of historic Berkeley County, W.Va., and visit the studios of the talented artisans who call it home. Berkeley County, W.Va. trailsandtrees.org CAPE MAY, N.J. Historic district, moonlight trolley, and Cape May sampler tours.

Cape May, N.J. 800-275-4278, capemaymac.org MARITIME HISTORY WALKING TOURS Second and fourth Saturdays, 10:00am. Fells Point Visitor Center, Baltimore, Md. 410-675-6750, preservationsociety.com

O THER POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE Select mid-week dates available November through December. The train rides are based on the holiday feature film from Warner Bros. and the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. Elkins, W.Va. 866-697-6028, mountainrailwv.com

SECOND SUNDAY SPOTLIGHT TALKS Second Sunday of every month, 2:00pm. Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org

DISNEY ON ICE Through Nov. 1. Celebrate the legacy of Disney in this ice-skating spectacular as “Mouse-ter” of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse leads a parade of characters. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, Md. 800-745-3000, disneyonice.com NATURE CONNECTIONS: GEOLOGY DAY Nov. 22. Enjoy an afternoon of hands-on activities, crafts, displays, and presentations. Bring your rock collection; scientists will help you interpret the story of your rocks. 6908 Belair Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-882-5376, marylandnature.org/nature-connections FASHIONS FOR EVERGREENS Nov. 26–Dec. 31. This competition features professionally designed trees. Vote for your favorite. Hotel Roanoke, 110 Shenandoah Ave. NE, Roanoke, Va. visitvablueridge.com B&O POLAR EXPRESS RIDES Nov. 27–29. Enjoy the Polar Express experience at American’s most historic railroad site. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD borail.org HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES Nov. 27–Dec. 31. Carriage rides are approximately 20 minutes, with rides traveling through the streets of downtown Historic Bethlehem. 505 Main St., Bethlehem, Pa. 800-360-tour, historicbethlehem.org

To Submit an Event for the Recreation News Calendar: All announcements must reach us no later than the 1st of the month previous to publication. As an example, we must receive July events no later than June 1. Every announcement must have the name of the event, name of the organization, date, time, and location of the event, a contact phone number, and a Website if possible. We cannot use any long descriptions, photographs, or additional materials. If you submit by e-mail, please put the information in the message itself; we appreciate not having to open any file attachments.Send announcements to: Calendar, Recreation News, 204 Greenwood Road, Linthicum, MD, 21090, or email to editor@recreationnews.com.

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The oyster stew competition is just one of the activities at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Oyster Festival on Nov. 1.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Snow Tubing

Cross Country Skiing

Ice Skating

Snowshoeing

Mountain Coaster

recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 33

music festival I gwen woolf

Pick your favorite styles and stars for a holiday musical feast Do you like your holidays served up with a little pops, big band, traditional carols, a cantata, or some international flair? These are just some of the options for regional audiences in December.

Maryland The Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda will kick off the season with Holidays Around the World

on Dec. 2, featuring the Strathmore Children’s Chorus and other choral ensembles performing traditional music from South Africa, England, Sweden, Germany, and Puerto Rico.

Also on tap are the Dave Koz Christmas Tour 2015 on Dec. 4, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s ’Tis the Season with Brian Stokes Mitchell on Dec. 10, Big Band Holidays featuring Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton

Washington National Cathedral

Washington’s National Cathedral is the site of a performance of Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 5–6.

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Marsalis on Dec. 12, and A Candlelight Christmas with the Washington Chorus on Dec. 18. (strathmore.org)

Virginia Scottish bagpipers and dancers bring a different flavor to the holiday during the 45th annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade, Dec. 4–6 in downtown Alexandria. Sponsored by the Campagna Center, the event also includes Scottish foods, a home tour, sale of heather and greens, and a holiday marketplace. (campagnacenter.org/ scottishwalkweekend) A free Holiday Sing-A-Long is planned on Dec. 6 at the Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Vienna. The President’s Own United States Marine Band and choral groups will lead the fun. Also on Dec. 6, the Cadmus Ensemble, a German a capella quintet, will perform a holiday concert of chamber music at the Barns at Wolf Trap. (wolftrap.org).

The EagleBank Arena (formerly the Patriot Center) at George Mason University in Fairfax will feature DC 101 Presents Eliot in the Morning’s holiday concert on Dec. 3, and Christmas with Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith on Dec. 20. (eaglebankarena.com) Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas will have A Lee Greenwood Christmas on Dec. 4 and Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season on Dec. 11, featuring the American Festival Pops Orchestra. (hyltoncenter. org)

Washington Washington National Cathedral

will present Handel’s Messiah Dec. 5-6, with the cathedral’s combined choirs and baroque orchestra along with international soloists. Other holiday offerings at the cathedral include Family Joy on Dec. 12, The Joy of Christmas on Dec. 12–13, and The Twelve Days of Christmas on Dec. 20. (cathedral.org) The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will host NSO Pops: The Von Trapps and Stephanie J. Block Family Holiday, Dec. 10–12, and the National Symphony Orchestra’s Handel’s Messiah Dec. 17–20. (kennedy-center.org) In addition, the Washington Chorus will present A Candlelight Christmas Dec. 13–22 and The Choral Arts Society of Washington will present An Enchanted Christmas Dec. 14–24. (kennedy-center.org) Capital City Symphony will present its Holiday Concert and Sing Along on Dec. 13 at Atlas Performing Arts Center. (capitalcitysymphony. org) For a medieval twist, the Washington Revels’ Christmas Revels will take place Dec. 5–13 at the Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University. (revelsdc.org) In addition, free nightly performances are given in December at the National Christmas Tree (the nationaltree.org) on the Ellipse by volunteer choirs, bands, and dancers. Stop in at the National Gallery of Art (nga.gov) and the Willard Hotel (washington.intercontinental.com) for holiday music throughout December. The U.S. Botanic Garden also has “Season’s Greenings” musical performances on selected Tuesdays and Thursdays. (usbg.gov)

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

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The Music Center at Strathmore offers a full plate of holiday musical goodies this year.

CRUISE CORNER continued from page 22 obtaining a difficult and pricey visa, making this stop a unique experience); Stockholm, Sweden (where the ship glides through a tranquil archipelago of 40,000 islands); Tallinn, Estonia (the world’s oldest continuously inhabited medieval city, surrounded by a fortress wall and 47 turrets); the fjords of Norway; and classic gems such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen.

4. Greek Island cruises What better way to see a nation of islands than on a cruise? These cruises often come packaged with stops in Dubrovnik, Croatia, or Sicily, Italy. At a stop in Kusadasi, Turkey, near the ancient and biblically significant city of Ephesus, you will experience the world’s largest ongoing archaeological dig site. You can also climb a live volcano near Santorini, the Greek island that features a classic hillside waterfront village of white adobe houses and blue-domed churches overlooking the beautiful Aegean Sea.

5. Hawaii cruises You’ll have to take a plane to get there first, but what better way to see all the Hawaiian Islands than to cruise, taking your hotel room with you and not having to pack and unpack daily. Hawaii seems to be on everyone’s bucket list, including ours.

6. New England/Canada cruises Don’t miss the massive 40-foot tide changes at the Bay of Fundy, the glorious fall colors, and the classic New England coastline with rustic fishing villages and piles of lobster traps on piers. Some of these cruises also go down the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Thousand Islands region. Each stop has a unique flavor.

In 2016, Royal Caribbean will begin cruising from Baltimore to Canada and New England. The ninenight round-trip cruises will include ports of call in Boston; Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The spring and autumn departures

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are May 26, June 23, Aug. 4, Sept. 1, Sept. 15, Sept. 29, and Oct. 13.

7. Southern Caribbean cruises Let’s face it: If you’ve done one cruise, it was probably the Caribbean, which has countless options to choose from. Which is the best?

While it’s a matter of taste, we prefer the Southern Caribbean.

Make your time count by starting with an inexpensive flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and you’ll already be at the start of “the good part.” As a rule of thumb, any island that starts with “saint” is a good bet. There are so many idyllic islands and ports of call, it will take you years of cruising to visit them all.

ing you to your next stop. You don’t feel like you need to hurry up in the morning so as not to miss going on an excursion, then hurry back to not miss departure and dinner, and then hurry back to your room to rest for tomorrow’s early port. No cruise is more relaxing than a trans-Atlantic.

Have you done all 10 of these cruises? Do you have some thoughts to share? Post them online at RecreationNews.com or email us at comments@recreationnews.com. Need advice? Try one of the travel agents on these pages.

Bon voyage.

Michelle Teel

8. Bermuda cruises Bermuda is literally in the middle of nowhere, all by itself in the Atlantic. What’s great about this is that the ship stays docked at the same place for several days. This truly removes a lot of stress because you never need to hurry and get back to the ship before it departs for the next port.

Bermuda is actually a collection of hundreds of islands, so close together they almost appear as one big island connected by a few bridges over canals. You’ll also love the British flair, golf, and pink sand beaches.

What’s on your cruise bucket list? Perhaps the ruins of Ephesus, Turkey and the world’s largest archaeological dig site?

9. Mexican Riviera cruises Most East Coast cruisers only see the gulf side of Mexico: Cozumel, Calica, Cancun, Costa Maya, Progresso, or Playa del Carmen. The Pacific side offers a great alternative, including the very peaceful waters the name Pacific derives from and great destinations such as Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. Don’t miss seeing the famous stone arches at Cabo or the cliff divers at Acapulco or Mazatlan.

10. Trans-Atlantic cruises In our October issue, we covered in depth these cruises, with their super-smooth ocean liners. The ships are staffed and equipped for a variety of activities for the whole trip, as opposed to being floating hotels tak-

Sample European-flavored concerts, performances, storytelling, movies, and other activities during the Kids Euro Festival through Nov. 8 at venues around the city. (kidseurofestival.org) … Celebrate the reopening of the Renwick Gallery after a two-year renovation during a Nov. 13 open house and a Nov. 14 family festival featuring crafts, music, and demonstrations. (americanart.si.edu/renwick) … Enjoy music, food, arts, and crafts by 180 exhibitors at the Downtown DC Holiday Market on F Street between Seventh and Ninth streets Nov. 28–Dec. 23.

— gwen woolf

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recreationnews.com I november 2015 I recreation news 35

adventures in taste I reed hellman

West Virginia RoadKill Cook-off features fine food, lots of fun I was a judge at the West Virginia RoadKill Cook-off.

If you are laughing, please realize that those of us who attended are laughing even louder. Despite the rain, it was just too much fun!

A highlight of the annual Autumn Harvest Festival in Marlinton, W.Va., the RoadKill Cook-off mixes culinary skill and creativity with a dash of self-deprecation and a large serving of antic good humor. (Imagine Granny Clampett and Andrew Zimmern working together in the same kitchen.)

The cook-off is a good-natured feature of the festival’s celebration of Allegheny Mountain culture. If you are still skeptical, consider that good weather can find some 20,000 happy people strolling Main Street’s vendors’ row, listening to regional music, and enjoying the local gastronomy.

As one of “a select board of highly qualified judges,” the question I most commonly heard was: “But, do they actually use roadkill?”

The cook-off’s official rules state: “All entries must have, as their featured ingredient, any animal commonly found dead on the side of the road. …

Cooks will sign a statement certifying their product is 25 percent wild game.” Nothing there about “manner of death.”

Regardless, many festivalgoers paid $5 each to queue up for 2-ounce servings of the eight entries.

From kids in carriers to seniors looking for a taste

of nostalgia, from Carhartt and ball cap-wearing locals to overly outfitted visitors, the crowds explored “Bear Butt Savory Stew,” “Wild Fowl Menagerie,” and “Drunken Deer Chili with Ramped Up Rice.”

Rating the entries With the two other judges, I rated each team’s entry on taste, originality, presentation, and showmanship.

The first-place team took away $1,200, second place received $600, third place $300, and the best showmanship received $150. The tasting public chose the recipient of a $150 People’s Choice Award. Stews and chilis led the list of dishes, and venison, bear, and fowl were the meats most frequently used.

Each entrant set a table for the judges, with themed place settings, napery, cutlery, beverages, and side dishes. We had approximately 10 minutes to sample a team’s presentation, and despite mentally prepping for “speed dining,” I quickly found myself lingering over the food, enjoying it, savoring the flavors and textures, indulging in the side dishes, and too frequently forgetting to make notes on the judging forms.

Along with the food, humor formed a strong element in many presentations. Togged in over-thetop, stereotypical hillbilly outfits, the first-place prize winners, the Ridge Runners, sported a banner that read: “Kill ‘em and Grill ‘em Diner.” For napkins, they skewered rolls of toilet paper on a set of deer antlers, and their “burgoo”— a wild game stew — was allegedly designed to attract husbands for any eligible daughters. The burgoo was excellent, but their pulled bear barbecue was my personal show-stopper favorite.

Along with the comedy, the Ridge Runners’ foods were a tribute to traditional Appalachian cuisine. “… What we are trying to do is pass down to our children and grandchildren how the woman of Appalachia cooked,” said Rachel Dickenson, one of the team members. “Our mothers and grandmothers passed this down to us. …We love to let the public taste the things that we grew up with, and we love that everyone enjoys the foods we cook.”

For me, tasting the traditional foods had begun the night before, at a wild game dinner hosted by Teresa Hammons, of the Marlinton Motor Inn. Hammons is an accomplished cook and prepared several dishes that featured local foods.

Reed Hellman

Contestants in the RoadKill competition show a sense of humor.

36 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

But, as I drove back to the city, I was reminded of Item 11 of the cook-off rules, which stated: “All judges have been tested for cast-iron stomachs and have sworn under oath to have no vegetarian tendencies.”

Don’t tell anyone, but I stopped on my way home, bought a huge salad, and savored every bite.

The Ridge Runners’ Catch YerSelf a Huzband Hillbilly Burgoo 3-pound rabbit 5-pound stewing hen 1 venison loin, cubed 1 bear loin, cubed 4 quarts potatoes 10 carrots Onions 2 tomatoes 1 cup beef stock 3 cups chicken stock 1/2 cup red wine 1 head cabbage, chopped 3 cans creamed corn 1 tablespoon minced garlic Butter to taste Bay leaves 1 sprig rosemary 2 packages egg noodles 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper Flour as needed Water as needed Place the stewing hen, rabbit, and venison and bear loins into 2 gallons of water.

Add chicken stock, 2 quarts potatoes, carrots, onions, tomatoes, wine, salt, pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, and a bay leaf. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 hours.

Remove the chicken and rabbit, let cool, and debone. Remove 3 cups of the broth and add flour to make a thickening. Return thickening to pot and gently stir.

Add creamed corn, beef stock, and cabbage.

Add rabbit and chicken meat and egg noodles.

Cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Add butter and pepper to taste; garnish with bay leaves.

Serve with cornbread or rolls.

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit reedhellmanwordsmith.com or email rhway2go@yahoo.com.

Reed Hellman

The winning entry provided a full table setting for the judges.

wine doctor I ed ard fin tein

wines help make the holiday With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it’s time to start planning the traditional holiday feast. While the holiday is a wonderful time to give thanks with family and friends, it’s also a grand time to enjoy a glass or two of wine with the meal. Here are some suggestions on what to sip while dining.

At the top of the list of Thanksgiving dinner entrees is turkey. It’s delicious and extremely versatile and economical, especially for large gatherings. The bones also make great stock for future dishes. Although the dark meat possesses a little more character than the white, overall, turkey is fairly bland in flavor. Sauces, seasonings, stuffing, and cooking procedures essentially dictate what the final flavor will be and what wine will ultimately work best.

Simply seasoned, roasted, and unstuffed, chardonnay for the white meat and cabernet sauvignon for the dark meat work well. Pinot grigio, merlot, trebbiano, and pinot noir will also do.

A stuffed bird is another story, adding much more character and flavor to the dish. In fact, one usually ends up matching the wine to the stuffing because it’s generally the stronger flavor.

For traditional herb or sage stuffing, try sauvignon blanc or cabernet franc. If Italian sausage is your passion, vie for Chianti, Soave, pinot grigio, or zinfandel. How about chestnut stuffing? A viognier or medium-dry riesling will do admirably.

A friend of mine loves to stuff his bird with an apple nut mixture. A medium riesling or medium vidal will do it justice. Got a hankering for mush-

room stuffing? Then barbera is the thing to sip.

And, if oyster stuffing is your weakness, then none other than a crisp, dry Muscadet or Vinho Verde should match it wonderfully.

If ham is on the menu Maybe ham is your choice of entrée for the holiday. Its primary flavor is somewhat salty, so fruity, crisp wines are called for. Gamay, Beaujolais, and zinfandel mesh nicely with the ham when it is simply baked. White wine lovers will enjoy gruner veltliner or riesling better.

Smoked ham is always a favorite among diners. The smokiness adds a nice twist to the ham’s sweet note, requiring a sweet note in a wine match. An oaky, “new world” chardonnay from Chile, California, or Australia will provide exactly what is needed. For something really different with smoked ham, why not give gewurztraminer a go?

This aromatic white possesses both smokiness and fruit to marry with the ham’s character.

Perhaps something other than traditional turkey or ham is on the menu. For lamb, a red Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, or rioja are fantastic. I really like chenin blanc or barbera with roast pork. Roast beef requires a big, full-bodied red like a red meritage or red Bordeaux, while a spicier version of the beef will do better with a shiraz, syrah, or Rhone red.

For a seafood entrée What if seafood or fish is your choice for

Thanksgiving dinner? Not a problem.

Oily favorites, such as oysters, mussels, calamari, or clams, really need a crisp, acidic wine to wow them. Therefore, Vinho Verde, sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, dry riesling, Muscadet, or even bubbly could be your options.

Richer seafood, such as lobster, scallops, shrimp or salmon, especially in a butter or cream sauce, cry out for an equally rich wine, such as viognier, oaky chardonnay, oaky semillon, or pinot gris.

I haven’t forgotten about the vegetarians among you. Simply seasoned vegetarian entrees work beautifully with whites such as sauvignon blanc or Muscadet and unoaked reds such as gamay, Beaujolais, or pinot noir. For spicier versions, check out gewurztraminer, torrontes, dry Muscat, or medium-dry riesling. Richer vegetarian dishes need fuller, oakier reds, such as Bordeaux-style blends, malbec, cabernet sauvignon, or cabernet franc.

Whatever you’re planning to eat for Thanksgiving, there’s a wine match that will marry perfectly.

Drink responsibly and enjoy. © Edward Finstein,“The Wine Doctor,” 2015. The Wine Doctor is Edward Finstein, award-winning author, TV/radio host, renowned wine journalist, international wine judge, professor of wine, and consultant. Contact him at winedoctor.ca, twitter. com/drwineknow, thewinedoctor.blogspot.com, winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine.html, facebook.com/ EdwardDocFinstein?fref=ts.

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- Breakfast for 2 - Admission for 2 to Brandywine River Museum of Art - Admission for 2 to Longwood Gardens Orchid Extravaganza - Admission for 2 to QVC Studio Tour

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Ocean City Getaway 1. Fill out coupon at right legibly and completely.

Vicky Bowen of Owings, MD 2. Mail to RecNews Contest Dept., 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 OR enter online at RecreationNews.com OR fax this form to 410-638-6902.

3. You may also email to publisher@recreationnews.com. Provide all information in the form at right and enter “NOVEMBER CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 11/17/2015.

4. If the winner does not respond within seven days another winner will be selected.

Limit one entry per household. Winner will be drawn at random from the pool of all entries received on time with legible information and will be published in next month’s issue and notified by phone, UPS or email, and notified on November, 17, 2015. Winner must respond by November, 24, 2015 to claim prize, or prize forfeits to a runner up. Other restrictions may apply.

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Gaithersburg Tourism

Holiday lights continued from page 15 $8 ages 4 to 10, $10 ages 11 to 64, $9 seniors, free for children under 4

More than just a display, it’s an experience that’s an American Bus Association Top 100 event.

Koziar’s is an entire village nestled in a valley around a reflective lake. The village is aglow with indoor and outdoor displays of more than a million lights. Enjoy indoor shopping, as well as paved paths for wheelchairs and strollers, and a visit with Santa.

Shadrack’s Christmas Lights Big Butler Fairgrounds Prospect 888-321-7574, shadrackchristmas.com Dusk-10:00pm, Nov. 20-Jan. 3, $25 per family car Said to be the world’s largest drive-thru, fully synchronized LED Christmas light and music show, now available in Butler County. Free admission to Santa’s Village.

Gaithersburg’s Seneca Creek State Park is the site of another holiday light display.

Virginia

Bull Run Festival of Lights Annmarie Garden

The Annmarie Sculpture Garden in Southern Maryland’s Calvert County makes its own displays.

Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd. Gaithersburg, MD Open Nightly Nov. 27 - Dec. 31 (Closed Dec. 25)

Bull Run Regional Park Centreville 703-631-0550, bullrunfestivaloflights.com Nov. 18–Jan. 3, 5:30–9:30pm (Sunday–Thursday), 5:30–10:00pm (Friday–Saturday) $15 per car (Monday–Thursday), $20 per car (Friday–Saturday and holidays), $25 per car (Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26) $25 to $55 for vans and buses More than 40,000 lights, animated animals set to music, and blowing snowflakes get you in the holiday spirit. Warm up by the bonfire at the holiday village, where you can also find children’s activities and s’mores. See the website for $3-off coupons for Monday through Thursday visits.

Additional fees for the Festival of Lights carnival rides.

Winter Wonderland Clearbrook Park Winchester 540-665-5600 Nov. 27–Jan. 8, 5:30–9:30pm; closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve $4 per adult, $3 per child Walk through a winter wonderland of lights reflecting off the lake, enjoy holiday music, and visit a cozy cabin for hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit with Santa.

Washington, D.C.

Zoo Lights at the National Zoo Washington 202-633-4888, nationalzoo.si.edu Nov. 27– Jan.1; closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve Free Enjoy a walk through the zoo and animal exhibits, lit and decorated for the holidays with 500,000 holiday lights. “Zoo-tubing” available on lion/ tiger hill for $3 per ride.

The National Zoo Choo-Choo offers rides through the lights for $3 per person.

Reminder: Always confirm availability and pricing with event venues online or by phone. The light venues tend to be more crowded on the weekends, so plan accordingly. www.recreationnews.com 410-638-6901 | fax: 410-638-6902 Mailing Address: 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore MD 21221

38 recreation news I november 2015 I recreationnews.com

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