Colonial Beach 2015 Guide

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

wn of Colon o T e h t ial B to e m e o ac c l e h!

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file photo by Cynthia L. Ailey

Everyday is a good day when you’re at Colonial Beach’s Municipal Pier!

A note from the President of the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce On behalf of the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce, we welcome you to our waterfront town. This is your guide to explore and become a part of all of the wonderful things that make Colonial Beach a unique and relaxing community.

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you will experience what we call home.

The Chamber of Commerce represents 145 businesses and organizations, from retail, service, real estate, marinas, hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, art galleries, antique shops and professional services that cater to their customers on a first-name basis.

The Chamber’s year-round events calendar is made possible by businesses and residents who volunteer their time and effort to celebrate the beauty of our surroundings as the second-largest public beach in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The bounty of our good fortunes includes a school system that is fully accredited by the Virginia Department of Education. Our police department is also fully accredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission.

Situated in historic Westmoreland County, Colonial Beach has something to offer everyone. If you visit us once, you will return time and time again.

Enjoy!

Carey W. Geddes President, Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce

Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce 106 Hawthorn St. PO Box 475 Colonial Beach,VA 22443 (804) 224-8145 info@colonialbeach.org www.colonialbeach.org

2015 Board of Directors

President: Carey Geddes, Beach Service Center Vice President: Maryann Day, Beach Shop Treasurer: Mitzi Saffos, BB&T Bank Directors: Patrick H. Ward, CPA Kyle Schick, Colonial Beach Yacht Center Susan M. Neal, Exit Realty Expertise Shirley Hinrichs, Monroe Bay Inn, B&B Steve “Smurf” Keene, All-American Harley Davidson

The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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64 Annual Potomac River Festival The Potomac River Festival, hosted by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce, brings together a variety of local and outside talents for entertainment as well as shopping experiences for hand made art, crafts and souvenirs.

Over the years local non-profit groups have added events either close to or during the festival weekend.

The fun really begins with on June 10 with the Colonial Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Festival Carnival hosted by the ladies auxiliary.

Overlooking the Potomac River on Town Hill, the carnival traditionally offers a family night. With one low price kids receive a bracelet that allows them to ride as many rides as they can handle until 9 p.m. The carnival continues throughout the week and during the Festival ending on the June 13.

Thursday, June 11 is a great day to take advantage of touring the many historical sites within minutes of Colonial Beach.

George Washington’s Birthplace is just 15 minutes up the road on Route 3 and just 5 more minutes brings you to the Westmoreland State Park.

After a day of adventure take advantage of one of many local restaurants featuring locally harvested blue crabs and other local fish.

For lodging the town offers many quaint bed and breakfasts as well as the recently renovated Rivers Edge located at the base of Town Hill overlooking the Potomac River.

On Friday spend the day on the beach soaking up the sun, but be sure to stake out a spot along the parade route for the Firemen’s Parade which will begin at 7:30 p.m.

This year the Second Friday Artwalk will run concurrently during the parade from 6 pm to 9 pm. Coldwell Banker 233 North Irving Ave., JerrettThor 100 Taylor St., Visions

by Shirl 116 Hawthorne St. and at The Fisheries commission 222 Taylor St. are a few of the locations that will feature artwork from local and visiting artists.

The Firemen’s Parade draws fire companies from hundreds of miles away to show off their trucks, flash their lights and blare their horns which can be heard across the river as far away as Maryland. Be sure to bring earplugs and a bag for collecting candy.

The parade route starts at the fire house on Colonial Avenue, goes east and then turns right on to Washington Avenue. The parade will then turn left onto Boundry Avenue and continue past the cannon. The parade will then turn left going against the traffic on Beach Terrace by the river. When it reaches the boardwalk at the municipal pier the parade will turn left onto Hawthorne, against traffic then turn right onto Taylor Street.

The parade will then cross Wilder Avenue and proceed into the Town parking lot continuing across Riverboat parking lot, ending at the Town Stage area.

Immediately after the parade folks gather to watch the Miss Colonial Beach Beauty Contest on the Town Hill stage while judges and visitors get an up-close look at the fire trucks.

You don’t want to miss the trucks leaving the beach, blowing off their sirens one last time and waving goodbye.

On Saturday and Sunday the Craft show begins at 10 a.m. and food vendors will be present for all day dining until 5 pm.

The Grand Parade begins at Noon on Saturday with favorite ways to “cruise the beach” as it’s theme.

Fireworks will be shot from the town pier and can be viewed all along the beach as well as from Town Hill and the carnival area. Fireworks begin shortly after dark at 9 pm, signaled by the fire department’s siren, as are many event beginnings such as the parades.

Sunday winds down a bit but the fun continues with the Boat Parade at 1 p.m. and the Pet Parade on town stage at 2 p.m.

Linda Farneth

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Overview of Colonial Beach and events Colonial Beach is located on the northeastern most end of the Northern Neck in Virginia. It sits on the Potomac River and is known for its gambling back in the 1950’s. Today visitors still can get a taste of betting at Riverboat on The Potomac which features betting on horse races as well as both Virginia and Maryland lottery, Keno and card game tournaments.

The town features a large beachfront for swimming, wading and boating along the Potomac on its east side.

Numerous marinas line the protective waters of Monroe Bay on the town’s west side. A free public boat launch is located on the southern tip of Colonial Beach with inexpensive spaces to park vehicles and boat trailers while you spend the day on the water.

A trolley system runs during the summer accessing every area of Colonial Beach or visitors can call one of the local cab services. Colonial Beach is a golf-cart community, sharing the road with vehicles and bicyclists. The downtown area features medium box stores with a mix of small quaint shops, including golf cart rentals, thrift stores and gift shops throughout.

A large group of artists have settled in Colonial Beach and the town is quickly becoming a hub of local and visiting artists featured at various shops in town.

Nightlife in Colonial Beach has grown up since the early days, with a large variety of restaurant-style bars and pubs with many featuring live entertainment year round.

The town also has local private clubs such as the Moose lodge, American Legion, VFW and the Eagles. There is also a local group for boy scouts, girl scouts and venture crew.

Colonial Beach is also home to a host of large birds of prey, such as osprey, eagles and the occasional hawk.

Cranes, blue herons, swans, geese, ducks, seagulls, loons and a variety of small birds also reside year round in Colonial Beach.

Blue crabs are plentiful in summer and oysters in winter thanks to conservation efforts that have brought back these local delicacies.

Colonial Beach also offers many tackle shops to accommodate fishermen and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission is located in the downtown area on the corner of Taylor and Wilder Avenues.

The Chamber is hosting the Father’s Day Car show June 21 put on by the Colonial Beach Cruisers.

Be sure to also check out the 49th Annual Arts and Craft show on the Boardwalk on Sept. 5 and 6.

This year the town will host its Second Bike Fest from Oct. 8 to 11 with a variety of activities and scheduled events, geared towards a biker demographic, strategically planned to accommodate their interests. Bike Fests tend to create a tradition among loyal motorcycle enthusiasts who return for years to come.

Whether you come for a day, the weekend or a week, you’re sure to come back again and again.

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

2015 Potomac River Festival Boat Parade Honors “Rusty” L.L. Curley, Jr. Rusty Curley has been selected to be the grand marshal of this year’s Festival Boat Parade, the final big splash of the town’s annual Potomac River Festival weekend at 1 p.m., Sunday, June 14.

The best viewing is on the Town Pier where each vessel and its captain will be introduced.

This year’s theme is Potomac Pastimes, a perfect fit to celebrate the many ways the river has blessed Colonial Beach. Parade leaders include the U.S. Coast Guard, Virginia Marine Police, Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Curley Packing Co. began in Colonial Beach as an oyster packing plant by Rusty’s father, L.L. Curley, Sr. in 1932. The plant, where Mr. Curley packed his “Pearl of Perfection” brand oysters, is still located on Lafayette Street.

Rusty said his father always wanted it to be a family-owned and operated business, and it is to this day. Rusty worked along with his brother-in-law, Russell Gouldman, in the oyster house approximately 40 years ago, supported in the office by his sisters, Candace Curley Coates and Linda Curley

Gouldman.

In the 1950s their father purchased property that he later developed into Monroe Bay Estates and water system, Monroe Bay Campground and Monroe Bay Mobile Home Park - all located on Monroe Bay Circle in Westmoreland County directly across from the Packing House.

L.L. Curley, Sr. continued to pack oysters until his passing in 1994, and Curley Packing Co. continued to pack oysters until 2002.

Approximately eight years ago, Monroe Bay Marina was built at the end of Lafayette Street right next to the oyster packing plant.

“We have been fortunate that our business is still family operated,” Rusty Curley said.

“We have done everything with the hope we have made Dad proud.”

As is the tradition following the Boat Parade, all participants will gather their boats around the Town Pier for the Blessing of The Fleet. Awards will be presented after the parade on the outside deck of Dockside Restaurant at 4 p.m.

As sponsor of the event, Colonial Yacht Club invites all boaters to participate. Every type of watercraft is welcome. Registration forms are available at www.thecyc.org or

Chris and Deb Ingram of Colonial Beach were the first place winners of ‘Best Decorated’ from 2014’s Boat Parade, Rankin’s True Value, Beach Service Center and CBYC. Participants may pick up their numbers and complete registration at Dockside on

Friday, June 12, or Saturday, June 13, from 6-8 p.m. For applications or more information, call (804) 761-1230.

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The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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2015 Colonial Beach Events Classic Car Festival on 64Th Annual Potomac River Festival June 12 - 14, Parades, Vendors, Arts and Crafts, Games, Stage Shows, etc.

Fathers Day Car Show June 21, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Car show featuring cars, bikes and light trucks in competition for prizes/trophies High Tides Blues Festival in Colonial Beach June 19- 21, Music festival featuring rock and blues music to benefit local organizations. Sponsored by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce and High Tides on the Potomac. For more information please contact Vickie Coffman at vickiehightides@aol.com Potomac River Regional Art Show July 10-August 9, Ninth annual art show sponsored by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Colonial Beach Artists Guild. This year the art will be judged by Jennifer Glave and B.J. Kocen, a husband and wife team who own and operate the spacious Glave Kocen Gallery in Richmond, Virginia.

36Th Annual Rod Run to the Beach August 15-16, Judged car show featuring antiques. street rods, street machines and classics. Sponsored by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Colonial Beach Education Foundation.

49Th Annual Boardwalk Arts And Crafts Festival September 5-6 2Nd Annual Colonial Beach Bike Fest Oct. 8-11, Please go to the event website at www.colonialbeachbikefest.com for more information on this exciting event!

Fall Festival & Golf Cart Parade October 31 21St Annual Rockfish Tournament November 13-15, Sponsored by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce & the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department Santa’s Wonderland & Winter Festival December 5

Father’s Day at Town Hill What father doesn’t enjoy a car show?

Do something different or make a new tradition for Father’s Day. Come out to Colonial Beach and see classical cars, trucks and rat rods on town hill on Father’s Day, June 21.

The fun starts at 10 am and ends at 4 p.m.

Stroll the Hill and admire all the vintage vehicles. If you have a classic car, consider entering it in the show.

Food and craft vendors will be on hand to satisfy Dad’s appetite and your gift giving needs.

A DJ will be on hand playing favorite tunes and announcing the winners in the competition. Categories include, Best in Show, Best Classic for Chevy, Mopar, Corvette, AMC, Import, American and Truck.

The top 40 classics will receive a trophy.

The Colonial Beach Cruisers’ cars will

also be on exhibit but will be exempt from the judging.

The Classic Car Festival is sponsored by the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Colonial Beach Cruisers car club.

Prizes are awarded at 2 p.m. on town stage and the cars will conduct a parade starting at the Hill and heading around the point from 3:30-4 p.m.

Linda Farneth

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

High Tides Blues Festival scheduled for June 19-21 Richard Leggitt The popular High Tides Blues Festival, one of the top events at the beach each year, will take place June 19-21.

Top blues stars Johnny Rawls, Biscuit Miller and more than a dozen other blues performers will take the stage.

The festival is sponsored by High Tides on the Potomac restaurant and will be held at the riverfront restaurant’s Black Pearl Tiki Bar. Proceeds for the “Raise the Roof ” event will go to help Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department make much needed roof repairs to their firehouse.

This is the fifth year for the Colonial Beach Blues Festival. The jam-packed event will kick off on Friday June 19 at 6 p.m. with music from the Mercenary with Max Tucker and wrap up on Sunday evening at 5:30 with performance by Brandon Santini.

Among the featured top musicians at the festival will be Rawls and Miller, who will be on stage Saturday night at 9 p.m.

Rawls is a multi-award-winning bluesman who has devoted his life to keeping Mississippi country soul music alive and flourishing.

“My style is between gospel, blues and good hard soul music,” he said.

Rawls’ rapid fire staccato blues numbers

get the audience on the dance floor and moving. He gives his soul to his music, the crowds love him for it and all of that makes for an impressive show.

Miller is also a crowd favorite. Born on the south side of Chicago and raised by his grandmother, he was given his childhood nickname, Biscuit, after always being in the kitchen and underfoot while she was trying to cook.

She also gave him his love and appreciation for music, as gospel and soul were played in her home on a regular basis.

Known for his big smile, Miller performs a “Funky Blues Stew” designed to get the crowd dancing. He delivers bounding energy and funk that is loaded with charisma.

Santini, who wraps up the festival on Sunday, is a North Carolina native and a swaggering Memphis Blues phenomenon.

In addition to the Mercenary and Max Tucker, other Friday performers include Li’l Ronnie and the Grand Dukes, and J.P. Soars and the Red Hots. Joining Santini on stage Sunday will be Moonshine Society, Rock Bottom Blues and Sweet Suzi and Sugafixx.

The Saturday performers leading up to Rawls and Miller are scheduled to be the Blues Buckets, Vintage #18, Baby Jake Band with Big Boy Little, the Andy Poxton

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Proceeds from the festival will go to the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department, known as the Pride of the Potomac. Established in 1895, the CBVFD is a completely volunteer station with the exception of one paid employee who works five days a week. The CBVFD responds to approximately 600 calls per year with 30 active volunteer firefighters.

For tickets, call the High Tides on the Potomac restaurant at (804) 224-8433 or go online at www.HighTidez.com/blues/index.

A festival pass for all three days is $50. A single day pass for Saturday is $25, a single day pass for Sunday is $20 and. Friday night pass is $15.

This event will be held rain or shine, so bring your dancing shoes and be ready to get down.

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The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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Celebrate Independence Day at the Beach Linda Farneth Come celebrate America’s 239th year of independence in Colonial Beach. Stroll the beach, swim, kayak, ski or boat in the waters of the Potomac River or Monroe Bay. July 4 will include a variety of events in and around Colonial Beach this year.

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church Bazaar, will hold a Yard Sale and Raffle from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at 12 Lossing Ave. The Colonial Beach Dragstrip, located just a few miles outside Colonial Beach on Route 205 (2035 James Monroe Highway), will host Larry T’s Fourth of July Drag Race. Races will include Test and Tune Grudge and Match Racing, Super Pro Foot Brake, Motorcycle and Jr. Dragster.

The Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department will hold its second annual Shrimp Festival at the Fire House, located at 312 Colonial Ave. Feast indoors or out from 4-7 p.m. Sides include corn on the cob, coleslaw & hush puppies. A beer truck will be on sight for adult beverages (sold separately), so don’t forget your ID. Come on out and support your hard working volunteer firefighters while enjoying a great meal.

Stratford Hall will host an Independence Family Fun Festival from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free.

Family-friendly activities include; barrel-train rides, miniature farm animals, free sketches by local artist, colonial costume dress-up, scavenger hunt, face painting, colonial music and 18th century games. The Great House will be open for tours from 10a.m.- 4 p.m., and the gift shop will open until 5 p.m. The gristmill will operate until 4 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to bring picnic lunches, blankets, chairs, etc.; coolers welcome (no alcohol, please). Several picnic tables are available near the Visitor Center and at the overlook. The Dining Room at the Inn at Stratford Hall will be open for lunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Stratford Hall, birthplace of Robert E. Lee, is located six miles northwest of Montross, just off State Route 3 on Route 214 at 483 Great House Rd. Don’t Colonial Beach’s famous fireworks on the Municipal Pier starting just after dark.

In recent years, surrounding locations have stopped shooting fireworks. Colonial Beach has continued to host Fourth of July fireworks. Stake out a spot on the beach, browse shops

Locals know the best place to see the fireworks is right on Colonial Beach and eat at the many local restaurants that feature a variety of cuisine including many seafood restaurants.

Public parking is offered in several locations by the hour or for the day. One pass will allow cars to park in any Kiosk lot throughout the Beach. Passes are not specific to each lot so motorists are free to change lots throughout the day. Street parking along Washington and Colonial Ave is usually restricted to allow for double-lane traffic to exit Colonial Beach after the fireworks.

Stake out a good spot on the beach or watch the fireworks show from your vessel in the waters of the Potomac River.

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

Photos courtesy Virginia-Maryland Triathlon Series

Colonial Beach to host international triathlon Richard Leggitt The Colonial Beach International Triathlon, part of the Virginia Triathlon Series, which will bring competitors to the Potomac River town from across America and from several foreign countries as well, is scheduled for July 11-12.

The Beach triathlon will include a 1,500 meter swim in the Potomac that is followed by a 40K bike ride through Colonial Beach and rural Westmoreland and King George counties and a flat, fast out and back 10K run in Colonial Beach.

The athletes involved will be honored and treated to a post-race feast at the Beach.

While the Virginia Triathlon Series is 30 years old, the Colonial Beach event is relatively new and is expected to draw substantial crowds, as well as top competitors.

Potential competitors can register to participate up until 8 p.m. on the Tuesday preceding the Sunday event.

The Beach triathlon is sponsored by the Pohanka Automotive Group of Fredericksburg and will benefit the Rappahannock Area YMCA, including the King George YMCA, and the programs the organization uses to enhance area communities.

“We would like to thank the town of Colonial Beach for their support in hosting this event,” said Terry McLaughlin, the Rappa-

hannock YMCA’s events director. “I would also like to recognize our army of volunteers and the staff of the Virginia Triathlon Series for enabling us to make this event safe and successful for the athletes.

“Training for a triathlon, whether it is your first or your 20th, is a challenging endeavor. Getting to the starting line is a success in itself and we hope to make race day positive and fun while helping the athletes achieve their goals.”

All participants in the Beach triathlon must complete the event in under four hours from the start of the final wave, according to event organizers. Athletes must be finished with the swim portion of the event within 60 minutes of the last wave starting.

Those competitors not making the swim cutoff time will not be allowed to continue with the bike portion of the event. Event officials said they reserve the right to pull a participant off the course if it appears as though that participant will not be able to complete the event in under four hours.

There will also be a sprint race for runners at the Beach on Saturday, July 11, beginning at 5:30 a.m. A pre-race meeting is scheduled for Friday night for those participating in that event.

Competitors and volunteers for the either event can register online at: www.vtsmts. com.

Photos by Leonard Banks

Triathletes coming out of the river during the 2014 race

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The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

Ready to roll with 36th Annual Rod Run to the Beach Richard Leggitt The Colonial Beach Education Foundation will host the 36th Annual Rod Run to the Beach Aug. 15-16 to raise funds for scholarships for graduating seniors from Colonial Beach High School.

In recent years, the summer event has raised more than $80,000 to help deserving students, “Last year’s Rod Run to the Beach was a tremendous success, all due to the cooperation of Colonial Beach’s and the many donations of prizes,” said Al Young, one of the leaders of the foundation. The registration fee for the event, which features classic cars, hot rods, customs and street machines, is $15 if paid by Aug. 14. Late registration is $20.

Young’s brother, Steve Young, one of the founders of the Colonial Rod Club, started The Rod Run to the Beach 36 years ago. Sadly, Steve Young passed away four years ago, but Al and Steve’s wife, Linda,

have worked to keep Steve’s dream alive.

When Steve Young became ill, he and Linda asked the Colonial Beach Educational Foundation to take over the Rod Run and continue its efforts to help Colonial Beach High School students. Since that time, Al Young and Linda Young have worked with other community leaders and volunteers to grow and expand the popular event.

“The Colonial Beach Education Foundation was originally formed by Dr. Don Warner, Superintendent of Colonial Beach Schools, to raise money to build a new high school,” Young said. “It was then disbanded and but when Dr. Alice Howard was Superintendent, she started the Colonial Beach Education Foundation back up.”

“Now with the help of many volunteers, the foundation and the Rod Run to the Beach work to raise money to help graduation seniors,” Young said.

This year’s event in August is expected to attract more than 125 registered competitors.

“There will trophies for the Top 15, Best in Show and a Founder’s Choice Award,”

Young said.

“We get registered vehicles from as far away as New York,” Young said. “The vendors always do a wonderful job and help everyone enjoy the day.”

During the event the cars will be a popular attraction as they parade around Colonial Beach and are on display at Town Hill. Young and the other organizers are ex-

pecting large crowds.

Previous Rod Runs to the Beach have featured everything from classic antiques like Ford Model Ts of the 1920s; immaculately restored sedans and coupes from the 1930s and ’40s; the powerful muscle cars of the ’60s and ’70s; and sought-after street machines like the Plymouth Fury, the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette.

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The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

The 49th Annual Boardwalk Arts and Crafts Festival set for Sept.

Linda Farneth Colonial Beach has become a hub for local and visiting artists with more than 100 members in the Colonial Beach Art League.

The attraction of artists to Colonial Beach began with the Colonial Beach Boardwalk Arts and Craft Festival. This year will mark the 49th year. The show will take place on Sept 5-6.

Artists and crafters will show their works on the boardwalk overlooking the Potomac River. Ceramic, wood, sculpture, fiber, glass, jewelry and pottery are just some of the craft categories.

Art features include works in oils, acrylic, watercolors and pen & ink.

Stroll the boardwalk as tents and booths line both sides displaying works of art and crafts, many artisans perform demonstrations when they are not busy selling their work.

Participants compete for prizes from honorable mention to First Place. Judging starts on Saturday, Sept. 5 and prizes are given based on creativity, craftsmanship, detail and design.

Admission is free. Enjoy browsing the displayed works and check out the restaurants along the boardwalk, as well as local shops that can keep you occupied throughout the day.

Bring your beach vessel and your bathing suits and enjoy a weekend of fun, sand, boating, and swimming while taking in the local and visiting talent at the Colonial Beach Annual Arts and Crafts Festival.

Thousands flock to Colonial Beach’s Boardwalk during the Arts and Craft Festival to check out the wares of local artisans.

Parts • Sales • Service Keep your Golf Cart ready to zip you around town this summer.

Gateway Power Equipment is now an authorized service center for

By Shirley Rush

Carts

(703) 303-1743

10031 James Madison Pkwy.

VisionsByShirl@aol.com

US 301N, north of the intersection of Rt. 205 in King George

116 Hawthorn Street • Colonial Beach, VA 22443

540-775-2241

www.gatewaypowerinc.com

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

Come join the fun in October!

Carey Geddes, Director of the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce, and Bryan and Vickie Coffman, owners of High Tides Restaurant, have teamed up again with Steven “Smurf ” Keene, General Manager of All American Harley-Davidson of Hughesville, Md., to bring the Second Annual Colonial Beach Bike Fest to Colonial Beach this fall.

The 2015 Second Annual Bike Fest will be held from October 8 to 11.

This four day event is filled with activities sure to delight bikers and spectators alike. Come down and get a look at the latest bikes, show off your own and join in the fun. Last years event was a big success despite rain during the concert said Chamber of Commerce President Carey Gettes.

Some of the events listed this year include; Biker Church, Harley-Davidson Demo Fleet, Bike Burnout Pit, Air guitar and Lip Sync Contests.

High Tides on the Potomac & Tiki Bar 205 Taylor street will have games every hour, a 911 Wing Challenge and bands throughout the event.

Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar 1787 Castlewood Dr. will feature the Ultimate Beer Gut Contest and bands throughout the event.

Virginia “Bee” Stumpf Colonial Beach, VA Supplies • Classes (804) 224-3619 beessg@verizon.net www.beesstainedglass.com

Colonial Beach Village Now accepting applications for 1 & 2 Bedroom Townhomes Call our office or stop by at 343 12th Street #1 Colonial Beach, VA 22443 804-224-9496 Office Hours: Mon. 10 am - 7 pm Tues. - Thurs. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Fri. 8:30 am - 4:30 pm TTY: 711 Equal Housing Opportunity Handicapped Accessible This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

The tradition of bike fests began years ago at Daytona Beach, with Bruce Rusmyer of the Harley- Davidson Dealership, who decided to have a little get-together for the weekend. Now bike fests are hosted all over the country for some good clean all-American fun.

Some of the more popular events during a bike fest include the Weeny Bike Ride, where bikers get on a motorcycle with a rider and try to take a bite out of a hotdog, and bike rodeos that show off a rider’s slow speed skills, such as the Roadkill event, where riders attempt to pick up stuffed animals inside a small area.

Events are all geared around having fun, all while practicing safety. Of course, there will be food and beverage venders serving sodas, tea and alcoholic beverages. There is always live music, this years event features the Marshall Tucker Band.

Admission is free to riders and spectators, however, each event does charge an entrance fee for the participants. Proceeds will fund the prizes and be donated to local charities, as is customary with these events.

Linda Farneth

Wilkerson’s

Each comes with 2 sides or 1 trip to salad bar Served 11:30 - 3:00 Mon. - Fri.

Family owned and operated since 1946

OPEN DAILY AT 11:30

The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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Colonial Beach is the place to be for the Fall Festival Friendship, fun and food will be on tap at Town Hill, once again the site of Colonial Beach’s Fall Festival.

Come out on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. for a day filled with family-friendly fun.

There will be a lot to see and do, including a chili cook-off, a pet costume parade, an inflatable carnival (moon bounce, slides, etc.) an apple sling, a costume contest, craft vendors and much more!

Try your luck at Cow Patty Bingo. Just rent a square (or more) and hope it gets splatted on. 2’ x 2’ squares are just $10/each and the first one that the cow soils after the 3 p.m. event start time is the big $500 winner! Proceeds benefit the Junior Rescue Squad. You do not to be present to win.

Yummy Brunswick Stew will be available for purchase at $8/quart.

You’ll be able to catch a special performance of the celebrity impersonator troupe, Illusions of the Stars! Look-alikes of Cher, Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Dolly Parton, Toni Braxton and Elvis may be seen on the stage.

One of the highlights of the event is the Halloween Golf Cart Parade which has been taking place annually for over a dozen years. It is usually a standalone event, but this year it joins forces with the fest.

The event is brought to you by the PTA, Chamber of Commerce, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad, Custom Cartz and Coldwell Banker Elite.

Read more: www.colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com/fall-festival.html

Schedule of events 11 a.m. - Craft & Food Vendors, Inflatable Carnival, Carnival Games, Apple Sling, Chili Cook-Off, Brunswick Stew Sale, Pumpkin Decorating Contest Noon - Pet Costume Parade on Town Stage 2 p.m. - Kids Costume Contest (Ages 0-2, 3-5, 6-9, 10-12 and 13 & up) on Town Stage 3 p.m. - Cow Patty Bingo ($500.00 PRIZE) 3 p.m. - Registration for the Golf Cart Parade 3 p.m. - “Illusions of the Stars” celebrity impersonators on stage 4 p.m. - Golf Cart Parade

Peddlers Market

• CRAFTERS • ANTIQUES • sports Memorabilia • HOLIDAY ITEMS INDOOR FLEA MARKET Spaces Available • Be A Part Of Our Market For More Information • Call (804) 224-0750 501 Euclid Ave. Colonial Beach, VA

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May 2015 • The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide

Go take a hike... in the Northern Neck Jim Lynch For those hikers who enjoy day hikes along level trails and in quiet forests with streams and bogs, the Northern Neck is a paradise!

Much different than the more strenuous mountain treks and the long distance trails in other parts of the state, these trails are perfect for spending a few relaxing hours.

Take a picnic lunch and something to sit on.

And if you happen to enjoy a few hills, well, there are those too; just not as many, not as long, and not as steep.

These trails are located in parks and other public lands. There are also a few private trails in the area. Be sure to check the websites for more details, rules of use, any fees, and possible closures.

Many of these parks have “friends” groups that provide opportunities to offer your time and talent to “give back” to the parks. All of the URLs for the websites can be found on the Friends of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail site: www.friendsdrht.org.

Some of the trail sites are also described in the excellent “60 Hikes within 60 Miles”

by Nathan Lott.

Have fun out there and maybe I’ll see you on the trail!

King George County Caledon State Park - 2,579 acres Caledon has recently been elevated to full State Park status. This means that some new trails have been opened and more will be in the future. The five “nature trails” are still there, which provide everything from pleasant strolls through old-growth forests, to stressing hills. The longest trail, four-mile Cedar Ridge, is a nice challenge for the fitness buff. The new trails are the old park roads, most of which have been closed until recently and which lead down to the Potomac River.

These new trails are open to hikers and, for the most part, bicyclists. Primitive campsites have recently been installed along the river, providing a backpacking opportunity, as well as canoe/kayak camping. Note that there is no vehicular access to the river. Parking fee and campsite fee.

Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail (DRHT) - 238 acres In 1942, the U.S. Navy built a railroad to serve the Naval Proving Ground at Dahlgren, and support the war effort. The part of the line stretching through the eastern part of King George County has been abandoned and is now in private hands, pending adoption into the State Park system. A friends’ group is clearing and improving the rail bed.

The trail is used by walkers and bicyclists, and during the winter, cross-country skiers. It is also a popular spot for runners, being one of the premier all-dirt courses in the country.

Half-marathon and 50K races are held every year. One of the striking features of the trail is the tree canopy. Most railroad trails have been logged out to the width of the right-of-

Photo courtesy Jim Lynch

way, while the DRHT is cleared only to the edge of the rail bed. There are trailheads with limited parking at several road crossings. The trail is 15.5 miles long. A permit (no charge) is required. See the Friends’ website for details. And by the way, trail aficionados fondly pronounce the name “dirt.”

Lands End Wildlife Management Area – 412 acres Land’s End WMA is a mixture of open farmland, woodland and wetlands along the Rappahannock River. Land’s End WMA has been managed primarily as a refuge for migrating waterfowl. The only trail on the WMA that is open to the public begins at the parking area by the kiosk, and heads toward the river along a rustic farm road. It then turns and continues a short way down river and along Nanzatico Bay. Nice views on a pleasant stroll. The trail ends at neighboring property so you have to turn around and retrace your steps. Permit required.

Westmoreland County George Washington Birthplace National Monument - 550 acres Under the protection and care of the National Park Service since 1932, the grounds are a nice walking area with several paths around the Memorial House in the Historic Area. Park at the Visitor Center (nice movie, exhibits, gift shop and restrooms). Go out the back door of the Visitor Center, and enjoy the view of Popes Creek from the wooden deck (there are rocking chairs there for those not wishing to hike). Take the Popes Creek Trail toward the Historic Area and Cedar Grove. If you have a little more time, take the new (2012) wooden footbridge that goes across an arm of the creek to the Picnic Area (restrooms here are closed during winter months) and a separate 0.9-mile nature trail. Come back across a pair of boardwalks to the barnyard area, and back to the Visitor Center parking lot on the Upper Trail. Level grade with a few short rises. Dirt, crushed

oyster shells or wood-chip-based. There is one small wet, boggy stretch on the separate Nature Trail, but for only a few yards. About two miles total, not including the separate nature trail. Tours of the Memorial House and other informative presentations by Park Rangers and Guides are available. Open 9-5 daily (except for New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). Pets are not allowed in the Historic Area. No admission fee. www. nps.gov/gewa Westmoreland State Park - 1,900 acres There are seven trails, totaling six miles in length. Some steep hills, including a long and steep staircase coming up from the beach on the Potomac River. Dirt paths, winding through mature forests. Wellmarked. A great place to spend the day hiking with a lunch. Cabins and campsites are available. Parking fee and camping fee.

Stratford Hall - 1,900 acres The birthplace of Robert E. Lee and home of the historic Lee family, there are several trails on the Stratford Hall plantation property that have the potential to be excellent hiking opportunities. Unfortunately, some

of the trails have suffered damage from recent hurricanes. The staff is working to improve and, in some cases, relocate the trails. But until that work is completed, use extra caution and be sure to follow the new signs. As an added benefit, Stratford Hall is the only hiking venue in the Northern Neck that is associated with a restaurant (and a fine one at that!). Either before or after your walk, enjoy lunch at the Plantation Dining Room. Visitor Center and Gift Shop. Tours of the Great House are also available. Entrance fee.

Voorhees Nature Preserve – 739 acres The preserve was donated to the Nature Conservancy by the Voorhees family, who own and operate the adjacent Westmoreland Berry Farm. Visitors will enjoy a nice loop trail of about four miles through a nice stand of forest and freshwater tidal marsh along the Rappahannock River. Makes for a nice day hike, especially when coupled with a visit to the berry farm. Be sure to try their fabulous pies. The preserve is only open for visitors when the farm is open, late spring to fall, and it’s not open after dark. Park and check in at the farm’s Country Store.

The Bell House Bed & Breakfast

A

charming circa 1882 Victorian on the Potomac River, once the summer home of Alexander Graham Bell. Private baths, wine & cheese, full breakfast. Sit on the front porch and enjoy the magnificent view of the Potomac.

804-224-7000 • 821 Irving Avenue Colonial Beach, VA 22443 www.thebellhouse.com • annebolin@thebellhouse.com

The Journal’s Colonial Beach Summer Guide • May 2015

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Two state parks, one short drive Westmoreland State Park

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

Meeting facility and five-bedroom waterfront retreat, visitor center, gift shop, campsites and cabins, hiking and biking trails and fishing pier. Year-round programs, seasonal snack bar, Olympic-size swimming pool, kayaking, paddleboarding and the new campstore.

Caledon State Park Hiking and biking trails, guided eagle tours and kayak trips, visitor center, gift shop, picnic shelter and playground. Year-round programs and events, including the Fall Art and Wine Festival and the Howlin’ Coyote 10K Trail Run. New primitive campground.

Westmoreland State Park 1650 State Park Road Montross, Va. 22520-9717 804-493-8821

Caledon State Park 11617 Caledon Rd. King George, VA 22485 540-663-3861

Virginia State Parks | 800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov VSP_KingGeorge_AB.indd 1

7/30/2014 12:25:32 PM

JAMES MONROE BIRTHPLACE PARK & MUSEUM The historic James Monroe Birthplace Park and Museum is open during the summer on weekends from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Directions: The Birthplace is located on Route 205, in Westmoreland County, 1 mile east of Colonial Beach, at 4850 James Monroe Highway, at the James Monroe Birthplace Historical marker.

www.monroefoundatiion.org • virginiapresidents@gmail.com Find the James Monroe Memorial Foundation on Facebook •

Fe 20 st 15 iv P a o B l G tom ob ra a Sw nd Mc R i in ars ver k ha l

Cooll o

show off how you love to Cruise the Beach”

Cee eer

m B a e h r C o h f C C a Presents om e B l m a i “Cruise the Beach” n “From wheels to props to flip flops, 64th Annual Potomac River Festival June 12th, 13th, & 14th

Upcoming Events in Colonial Beach High Tides Blues Festival • June 19th - 21st Father’s Day Car Show • June 21st July 4th Fireworks 36th Annual Rod Run to the Beach • August 15th & 16th

Visit our website for all upcoming events www.colonialbeach.org a m h Ber of C h C a e Com B l ia m n June 12th, 13th, 14th o

Ce er

Co l

Colonial Beach Potomac River Festival Theme: Cruise the Beach

“From wheels to props to flip flops, show off how you love to Cruise the Beach”

Grand Marshal: Bob Swink Friday, June 12: Fireman’s Parade at 7:30 Miss Colonial Beach Contest - immediately followng the parade Saturday, June 13: 64th Annual Potomac River Festival Grand Feature Parade 12:00 Arts, Crafts, and Food Vendors 10:00 - 5:00 Fireworks - 9:00 Sunday, June 14: Arts, Crafts, and Food Vendors 10:00 - 5:00 Colonial Yacht Center Boat Parade – 1:00 complete details www.colonialbeach.org 804-224-8145