Middleburg Life, March 2015

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PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID BURKE, VA PERMIT NO. 44

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Volume 32 Issue 11 • March 2015 www.middleburglife.net

Inside:

page 6

Stephanie Bates

This year’s Upperville Daffodil Show at Buchanan Hall on Tuesday, April 14 is dedicated to Bunny Mellon, an honorary member of the Upperville Garden Club for many years.

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BUNNY MELLON (1910-2014) at her Oak Spring Greenhouse. Her gardening smock and bucket hat were designed for her by Hubert de Givenchy.

PHOTO BY FRED CONRAD, 1982 1

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By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

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wrenches,” he said. “I also got a chance to work in custom exhaust shops and then a speed shop where we built performance cars. From there, I got into working in dealerships and when I started, I’d do as much as they would let me do.”

He moved from upstate New York to Virginia when he married Heather, who has a horse rehabilitation business, and they now live in Winchester with their two children, a 30-minute commute to the Upperville shop.

Leaving the security of a good dealership job for a new business venture clearly was a major

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quick glance at the vehicles parked inside and outside the Upperville Auto Repair garage next door to Hunter’s Head Tavern offers a significant hint at the versatility and skill level of mechanic and co-owner T.J. LoCascio. They range from a teeny MiniCooper to a substantial Chevy Silverado pickup to a massive John Deere tractor, all getting the proper attention from a master craftsman who thoroughly enjoys his work.

And so does his partner in the new venture, Allen Richards, who lives with his wife Jennifer on their Delaplane farm where they also raise cattle. Richards has been a classic car aficionado for many years, with several Aston Martins and a 1933 Packard among his prized possessions. He’s always enjoyed tinkering with them himself and is no slouch with a wrench in his hand, as well.

Richards and LoCascio first met a half-dozen years ago. LoCascio was then the lead man in the service department of a Winchester auto dealership, and soon began working on the side repairing and maintaining all of Richards’ vehicles, from Photo by Leonard Shapiro the classic cars to the T.J. LoCascio is the head mechanic at the Upperville Auto Repair farm machinery.

“He’s just a hell of a mechanic and step, “but this is something I’ve been looking to he can work on anything,” Richards said. “One do for quite a while,” LoCascio said. “Allen and day, someone told us this space in Upperville I had talked about it, and then this opportunity was for rent. I talked to T.J. about opening up came up and we took advantage of it it.” a repair shop and he said ‘let’s do it.’ We’re in it They now occupy two buildings, and are together, 50-50. And he never ceases to amaze looking to expand, the better to work on larger me.” farm equipment and horse trailers, as well The business opened in September and as provide much-needed increased space for already has a burgeoning list of clients, includ- parking. This spring, the shop also will start ing several local farms that bring all their vehi- doing state inspections, as well, and LoCascio cles and equipment over to the shop. LoCascio, and Richards have stocked the shop with high equally comfortable with foreign or domestic quality and often high-tech implements. cars, admitted he hasn’t been able to take a “Word of mouth on what we can do is deep breath since they opened. He’s now in the spreading,” LoCascio said, adding that he and process of recruiting another quality mechanic Richards also share an important common to help him with the ever-increasing workload. trait.

Richards’ son Andrew, a student at Shenandoah “We’re both very particular in how we University, also helps out three days a week, work,” he said. “We both take great pride in and has been a valuable asset and “a quick whatever we do. I think that’s one of the reasons learner,” according to LoCascio. he trusts me with everything. Now I’ve got the His own learning curve began back on opportunity to work on a variety of cars and Long Island, when LoCascio first had a part- then you get to see the end result—a happy and time job in a garage changing tires at the age satisfied customer. of 16. He’d always been infatuated with cars, “I try to treat everyone the same way, and especially Mustangs and Camaros, the most I try to help people out. If you need something popular teenage choices back in the ‘90s. right away, I’ll do my best to do it. Most of all, I

“I went from doing tires one summer want people going down the road safe. My wife to the next summer when I started turning and my kids are out there, too.” n

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Master Mechanic Making His Mark in Upperville

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All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Middleburg, Upperville, Aldie, Millwood, The Plains, Rectortown, Delaplane, Paris, Boyce, Leesburg, Marshall and Warrenton.

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The views at Delaplane Cellars are memorable

March 2015

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The Vineyard, the View, the Vino All “Wow” At Delaplane Cellars

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By Dulcy Hooper for Middleburg Life

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elaplane Cellars describes itself as a boutique family winery, committed to producing ultra premium, artisanal wines grown in a select handful of meticulously managed vineyards “by growers who, like us, are obsessed Contributed Photo with quality.”

Jim Dolphin of Delaplane Cellars When searching for a vineyard, owners Jim and Betsy Dolphin wanted four things, and surveyed over 100 sites to find that perfect com- ters, which are small half- and one-ton fermentbination: an excellent vineyard site for red wine ing bins. Depending upon the vintage and their grapes, a spectacular view, easy access to a major evaluation of the particular lot of fruit, they punch down the cap one to three times daily. road and a community of wineries.

Jim Dolphin’s obsession with winemaking Delaplane Cellars’ building was designed began in 1998, as a home winemaker. By 2005, and positioned to maximize the natural resources. he was making 28 different wines in the basement In the tasting room, there is significant accomof their home. After an exhaustive, multi-year modation to the environment. The water cups search of land in several counties, the vineyards are made from corn; the napkins and paper towels and winery was purchased in 2007, perched on are made of recycled paper; the light fare offered romantic Lost Mountain just off Route 17 in the is from local farmers and bakers.

The wine production area and barrel room Crooked Run Valley. are substantially underground, minimizing energy

“We’re fortunate to live, farm and realize our use.

The tasting room features a wall of glass, dream in the historic Crooked Run Valley,” Jim said, “which is not only breathtaking in its beauty accentuating breathtaking views of the valley and scenic countryside. The tasting room bar, doors, but has significant roots in history.”

He immediately began reaching out to Vir- front steps, flooring, fireplace and retaining walls ginia growers to purchase fruit. Delaplane Cel- come from trees, wood and stone walls that were lars’ vineyard ethics are simple: All wine is made on the property and removed during the developfrom authentic Virginia wine grapes, with a phi- ment of the vineyards and winery.

Reviews by many visitors on Yelp and Trip losophy of “less is more.”

Advisor focus in equal measure on the wine

This “less is more” policy comes down to mandating that less outside influence from the and the scenery, with many noting that photowinemaker or staff yields more authentic and graphs of the vineyard cannot do it justice. higher quality wine. And true to that vision, a “Breathtaking is an understatement,” said one prominent sign as one approaches the property reviewer. “. . . the most beautiful tasting room states: “We cannot accommodate groups over in the area.”…“The room was striking, with floor six, buses or limousines at any time.” Nor do they to ceiling windows.”…“ The quality of the wine accommodate children, although dogs can be stood out”…” This winery has incredible sweeping views of not only the vines, but also the walked outside on a leash.

The Delaplane Cellars’ philosophy about mountains.”…“Wow! Delaplane Cellars knocked wine and the environment are specific and my socks off.”

On a recent Saturday, a friend invited me to straight forward: In the vineyards, 100 percent Virginia wine grapes are used. Jim and Betsy join her for a tasting and sampling of Delaplane partner with local farmers in respectful collabo- Cellars’ “light fare.” At the end of a delightful ration. In the development of the vineyards and afternoon and in the spirit of the moment, I winery, they used almost exclusively local trades. decided to sign up as a member of the Wine Traditional methods are used to craft Club. When I return home with new purchases Delaplane Cellars’ wines. Whites are whole clus- (wine and otherwise) my husband frequently tered pressed and barrel fermented in a combina- casts a suspicious glance my way, or gives a sign of tion of new and older French oak barrels. They resignation. Keeping in character, he did so this use commercial yeast strains, primarily French, time, as well. A day or two later, opening a bottle of Melange Rouge, his suspicion was replaced by for primary fermentation.

Delaplane Cellars’ reds are sorted twice, first appreciation.

“Wow,” he said. n in the vineyard and again after de-stemming. By sorting in this fashion, any remaining stems and Delaplane Cellars Club Member’s Winter Wine jacks as well as under-ripe berries are discarded. Release is scheduled for Feb. 22. Numerous live Only pristine fruit finds its way into the fermen- events are scheduled throughout the month.

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Middleburg Memories

FOR THE DAY

In preparation, Wodicka has been painting whenever creativity hits her, whether its day or night. Working primarily from photos either she or a client has taken, Wodicka can spend several hours and up to multiple weeks on each piece.

“I bought the same lighting they have at the National Gallery from another artist and hung it in my studio,” she said. “It It creates 24 hour a day natural light so whenever I’m inspired I can paint. A lot of times it hits me in the evening after the kids are in bed.”

Whenever Wodicka decides to paint, she goes through a gallery of thousands of photographs from family vacations, trips to Europe, and even ones she took during a spur of the moment drive around her home. When she decides on a subject, she lets the paint flow

April, 2013

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Photo by Sophie Scheps

Lauren Bruce Wodicka

naturally.

“My best paintings happen subconsciously,” she said. “If I have to really force it, it looks forced. If its natural and I’m inspired it will flow out of me so quickly and it looks and feels effortless.”

Wodicka’s favorite aspect of her work is how her color choices combine to create something full of energy and very whimsical. Her work has been well-received and she often has repeat clients who purchase multiple pieces. As an artist, that’s the highest form of flattery.

“I think my work is very marketable to many different people,” she said. “I’m really proud that I have a lot of repeat customers and that they enjoy my painting in their home every day.” n

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In the Kitchen with E T

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auren Bruce Wodicka has been a Virginian her whole life, even if her artist’s heart beats loudest whenever she thinks about French impressionism.

“I’ve been painting my whole life,” she said. “I’ve always been an impressionist from the moment I picked up a paintbrush. I’ve always been drawn to French impressionism.

I could spend all day in a museum staring at those works. Both my parents were very supportive and I think they knew that’s what I was supposed to do.”

Raised in Lynchburg and now living in Leesburg, Wodicka attended James Madison University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. After continuing her art education at the Art School of Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy, Wodicka and her husband Brent moved to Alexandria. Despite only being in her mid-20s, Wodicka opened her own gallery space in a premier location on King Street after building up a client base and gaining experience in Lynchburg. withranEdherWright

For six years Wodicka Alexandria shop and sold her paintings, architectural drawings, and pencil portraits to a variety of clientele. While looking for a larger gallery space, Wodicka became pregnant with their first child and made the decision to move her studio space home so she could be with her growing family.

“Being on King Street was great because it allowed me to meet all the residents in the area but also designers who were buying art for clients and people who were traveling from all over the world,” she said. “It gave me a great platform to sell my work. After my husband and I found out we were pregnant, I wanted to stay home and raise my family. Running the store took up so much time and I didn’t have enough time to paint.”

Wodicka has spent the last four years raising two children and working primarily on commissions at her home studio. With beautiful, wide-open countryside surrounding her, mily ylEr Wodicka is feeling very inspired to rebuild her body of work.

“I’ve always wanted to live near Middleburg,” she said. “It reminds me of home. I wanted to be close to what inspires me. I love landscapes, pastoral scenes, and vineyards. This is where we plan on staying and raising our kids.

I really want Middleburg to see more of me in the near future.”

Wodicka participated in The Scout Guide Northern Virginia, a publication showcasing local businesses and artists and the Art of the Piedmont Auction benefiting Middleburg Montessori. She’s talking to several local businesses, including Native Barre and Salamander Resort and Spa, about showcasing her work. She’ll also participate in the Art at the Mill show at the Clark County Historical Association later this spring.

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France Has Left a Great Impression on Local Artist

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52nd Annual Daffodil Show to Take Place on Tuesday, April 14

By Vicky Moon For Middleburg Life

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rowing up in Princeton, New Jersey, the late Rachel “Bunny” Lambert Mellon’s lifelong horticultural passion began at the age of five as she created window-boxes and miniature myrtle tree topiary. The Olmstead Brothers of Boston designed the grounds of her family home, an esthetic that no doubt also left a lasting impression.

Her artistic sensibility in horticulture and design can been appreciated all around Upperville: at her Oak Spring Farm, the Trinity Church and the Piedmont Child Care Center. This year’s Daffodil Show at Buchanan Hall in Upperville on Tuesday, April 14 will honor Mrs. Mellon.

Stephanie Bates is the chair of this year’s show, presented by the Upperville Garden Club in conjunction with the American Daffodil Society. Susan Grayson is the vice chair. The doors open at 2 p.m. and afternoon tea will be served. Donations are appreciated.

Bates has been working on the show since last June. “The main role I play is to choose a theme for the artistic division of the show,” she said. “This year we chose to

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honor Mrs. Mellon, who was an honorary member of our club for years.”

This year’s show will incorporate two of Bunny Mellon’s loves…art and flowers.

“We’ve picked out pieces of artwork we felt would be interesting to marry with different artistic designs, “ Bates said.

“A Tribute in Flowers” will include various classes using artwork from the Mellon collection as inspiration such as: “Madame Monet and Her Son” by Auguste Renoir; “Skiffs” by Gustave Caillebotte; “On the Stile” by Winslow Homer; “Dorelia in the Garden” by Augustus John and “Little Dancer Aged Fourteen” by Edgar Degas.

More than 50 exhibitors from Virginia, Maryland other neighboring states are expected this year. The ever-popular Daffodil Boutique, which includes original designs and hand painted projects of Barbara Sharp, will also be open.

Entries are accepted starting Monday, April 13.

“We encourage all local growers to bring their blooms,” Bates said. “We’ll have classification judges to advise what division to show your blooms.” n

Stephanie Bates is the chair for this year’s Upperville Daffodil Show Photo by Crowell Hadden

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“This towering forest of scent and white flowers was the beginning of ceaseless interest, passion and pleasure in gardens and books. Like a magic carpet it has carried me through life’s experiences, discoveries, joys and sorrows. In sadness especially, it has been a hiding-place until my heart mended.”

BUNNY MELLON

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he late Bunny Mellon’s pure and precise horticultural influence can be seen all around Upperville. At Trinity Church in Upperville, she influenced the pattern of many intricate parts from the stone and woodcarvings, ironwork and the courtyard.

The North Carolina cobblestone granite near the entrance in the color of Flambeau or Canterbury Pink is set in the pattern of a scallop shell. The shell is intended to resemble the scallop shell often associated with the Pilgrimage of St. James along the Camino to Santiago de Compostela, Spain (a trek this writer and her family know quite well).

Although Bunny Mellon had no formal training, she studied the work of French

Bunny Mellon on phlox.

gardeners André Le Nôtre and Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie. And while many have mistakenly referred to Trinity as an English country church, it is in fact based upon the style of 12th and 13th century French Country churches.

In this courtyard, she employed a type of miniature boxwood named Kingsville that is sculptural and elegant. In juxtaposition is the humble native hackberry tree, providing a favorite feast for the beautiful bluebirds. Ornamental crab apples bloom in the spring. The church will be open to visitors on Memorial Day weekend during the annual Hunt Stable Tour, May 23-24.

Across Route 50 from the Trinity Church, Bunny Mellon donated the nine acres for the Piedmont Childcare Center.

Her design sensitivity asked that it resemble a one-room schoolhouse.

At Oak Spring Farm, she had architect I. M. Pei do her pool house. Pei designed the East Wing of the National Gallery (much of which was given by her late husband Paul Mellon) and also the Kennedy Library in Boston (where Bunny Mellon designed the gardens).

And, in 1980, for her 13,500-volume collection of botanical books at the Oak Spring Garden Library, she asked Modernist architect Edward Larrabee Barnes to create an unassuming yet discerning whitewashed Mediterranean style structure. Local architect Tommy Beach later created an addition. The library is only available to scholars by appointment. n Cobblestone photo by Stephanie Knapp

Genevieve Warner Just LUVS2TRAIN Animals

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and say ‘hey, that worked, I just got paid to do that.’”

Suppressing behaviors and teaching animals to avoid punishment have no place in her playbook. In contrast to force-based training that relies on choke collars, other “adversities” and a mastercommander mentality for instantaneous results, Warner seeks “behavior for the life of the animal, and that animal’s life with-in a family.”

Positive reinforcement might be a treat, a

enevieve Warner has the mind of a scientist and the heart of an animal lover. Add a degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management from Moorpark College in California, and you have a remarkable local resource for understanding behavior, four-legged and otherwise.

The pet owners from all around seeking a happy coexistence with their dog (or other “domestic”) all call upon Philomont-based Warner for her methods and insights. And the puppy raisers for Canine Companions for Independence also seek her guidance.

LUV2TRAIN is the easy-to-spot, vanity plate version of her broader mission: to promote humane, science-based animal training.

“Training is behavior modification.

To make a behavior repeatable, you have to know the why... the science behind it,” Warner said in a recent interview. Her approach begins with finding exactly the right reinforcement—one rewarding to that particular animal—and identifying what might be changed in the environment to help bring about good behavior.

“Good means making good choices,” Genevieve Warner Warner explained. “You want to raise a dog who will think ‘to create a space where this person will come and pet me, I think I will sit down now.’” touch or play. “We are lucky that somewhere along Warner finds that most of the time when the way, somewhere in history, dogs attached people say there is a problem, they are actually themselves to us. We are one of the ‘good things,’” reinforcing wrong behavior. “Sometimes attention Warner said. “There is something reinforcing of any kind can be rewarding,” she said. “Wrong about us.” behavior usually means we paid the animal to do Animal training is actually Warner’s second something. They are going to do the doggy math career. The Pennsylvania native received her bach-

elor’s degree in biology, then spent eight years in biotech research before realizing it was no longer fulfilling. Exploring new possibilities led her to the one-of-a-kind exotic animal training program at America’s Teaching Zoo in Ventura County, California. Graduates work in film and television, as zoo employees, conservationists and wildlife educators. Warner cashed in her retirement savings to enroll in the rigorous, 22-month course.

“In our first year, we were there 24-7, attending classes and caring for all the animals” in the program’s public zoo, housing close to 200 creatures. “The work was very hard, and potentially very dangerous,” Warner said. “At that stage, we were only allowed to train each other and our rats.”

Later, in 2000, Warner moved to Virginia,

and within a year began offering her popular dog training classes. She also worked as a veterinary assistant at Middleburg Animal Hospital in the days of Drs. Love and McKim. “I didn’t necessarily intend to train domestics, but by word of mouth, people started seeking me out.” She also advises on the behavioral problems and concerns of animals under a Marshall based humane care group, and helps assess individual placement needs.

Safety is always her top priority. “I give people the skills to keep themselves, their family and their animals safe. Any dog can bite,” Warner stressed. “Many have very, very high tolerances, but there will be some situation in which they will bite.”

She also reminds owners, “You can’t put any dog in any situation. You have to really know your animal.”

Gail Griffith, also a Philomont resident, has raised five CCI puppies and a highly fearful Coonhound, rescued from a medical lab.

“Genevieve has a marvelous understanding of each dog’s behavior and motivation,” she said. “With her knowledge and wonderful sense of humor, she is able to communicate that understanding to the human working with that dog. The result is not just an ‘obedient’ dog, but a deep, loving relationship that gives full meaning to the phrase ‘man’s best friend.’”

Warner’s current focus is the launch of Creating Fun Animals, LLC, a more structured business overlay to her services. She plans to offer additional class locations, more in-home consultations and develop training-themed children’s birthday parties, utilizing her degree in wildlife education.

“It’s never just about the animals,” Warner said. “It’s about building empathy and compassion.”

And that’s a reward in itself. n

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The American Legion Post in Middleburg

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By Morgan Hensley For Middleburg Life

t’s no surprise that those who once served their country would return home to serve their community as well. In Middleburg, the American Legion Post 295 is where these heroes meet to discuss ways to better their cherished home territory, a small part of the country they once helped to protect.

Middleburg’s American Legion Hall was once a Ford tractor garage. In 1952, while America was involved in the Korean War, the garage was purchased and remodeled with funds raised by weekly Bingo games. Franklin Payne, a veteran of World War II, was the Post Commander at the time. He joined the post in

1948 after a friend brought him to a few meetings. Although his days as Post Commander are behind him, he still enjoys his role as the “official groundskeeper,” he said with a grin.

Throughout the years, the post’s mission has remained the same: to give veterans a place to gather, reminisce, and, as member Richard Bell put it, “to make sure that vets are treated with the respect that they deserve.” As House Commander, Bell’s main duty is to provide information on healthcare and other services to veterans.

The American Legion was founded in 1919 by veterans of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I with the aim of promoting national security, patriotism, and

respect for veterans. The Legion welcomes veterans from every branch of the armed forces; as Bell said, “We’re all veterans.”

The American Legion is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for the interests of veterans. It focuses on upholding and preserving its “Four Pillars”— veterans’ affairs and re-habilitation, national security, Americanism, and children and youth.

Post 295 not only assists veterans, but also plays an active role in the Middleburg community. The building is available as a venue for wedding receptions, local functions, and as a meeting location for Boy Scout Troop 2950.

Unlike other venues, which charge a high premium, Post 295 has low rates so that those from all financial backgrounds can afford to rent the location.

“We’re not out to make a killing,” Bell said.

“We’re just there to help out our community and the veterans that are a part of it.”

Middleburg’s membership has dwindled in recent years. Currently, there are only 34 members; in the 1940s and ‘50s, there were well over 100. Veterans from the recent conflicts in the Middle East either opt out of joining the Legion or are attracted to larger posts such as

those in Leesburg and Winchester.

Another factor that has accounted for the local decline is the increase in specialized veteran’s organizations that cater to more recent veterans. World War II veterans grow scarcer with each passing day and Fritz Hutchison, a longtime member and Wold War II veteran, said, “There aren’t a lot of World War II guys left, and they were the ones that kept the post working.”

Still current members insisted they are not concerned by the decreased membership.

Hutchison and Payne also agreed that recently appointed Post Commander Eric Lindgren has an excellent vision and work ethic that will attract younger veterans and uphold the post’s values.

In addition to membership dues, donations allow Post 295 to continue to serve the Middleburg area. The post holds an annual Independence Day fundraiser at the Community Center. The festivities last all day and include a barbecue and a raffle, with prizes donated by local individuals and organizations.

The money generated through fundraisers and donations primarily goes towards the post’s upkeep. In addition to maintenance, a portion of the budget goes towards scholarships, usually three per year, to Boys’ and Girls’ State. The post is also involved with several charities that aid the homeless, a circumstance that disproportionately affects veterans.

Maintaining Middleburg’s Legion Hall is a lot of work, but it’s a sacrifice its members are willing to make.

“I’m proud to be a vet,” Bell said. “If I wasn’t, I wouldn’t have been at this post for 43 years.” n

School’s Outside

for Summer Children may be out of the classroom, but that doesn’t mean they have to stop learning. Each day offers a lesson in exploration, adventure, inclusion and self-confidence. Campers at The Hill School are exposed to a mix of arts, sciences, sports and the natural environment, all designed to strengthen their skills, interests and character.

You’ll be amazed when you see how much a child can grow over one summer.

Explore our CAMPus

137 Acres in beautiful Middleburg, VA | Outdoor amphitheater Library | Walking and running trails | Sports fields | Indoor Athletic center performing arts center | Playground | Science center | Ponds, wetlands, woods & more

Our Summer Program is a six-week day camp open to all rising 1st through 8 th graders.

To learn more, or to register your child for camp, visit TheHillSchool.org.

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March 2015

irtually every Hall of Fame athlete in any sport can point to a parent or two being instrumental in their staggering success. From playing pitch and catch in the backyard, retrieving errant jump shots in an empty gym or even driving long distances to games in faraway places, a mom or dad (sometimes both) is almost mentioned in typically emotional enshrinement acceptance speeches.

Jacy Edelman’s mother, Merrilyn Saint, now Foxcroft School’s director of technology, surely played a major role in her daughter’s athletic triumphs, in a slightly different way. When Jacy was a senior at Foxcroft in 1995, there was Merrilyn in the stands or on the sideline, trusty video camera frequently focused on her child, filming her field hockey games, the better to show college coaches her considerable talents.

It certainly paid off. After a fine athletic career at Foxcroft, playing both field hockey and lacrosse, Jacy’s expoits caught the eye of the Wellesley field hockey coach, and four years later, she was named an All-American in both sports at the prestigious Massachusetts school. Just last month, on the final Saturday of February, Edelman also was honored along with equestrian Alison Firestone of Middleburg as the two newest members of Foxcroft’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

“My mom sent videos to coaches,” said Jacy, whose father, the late actor, Herb Edelman, died while she was still in elementary school. “She was my biggest fan. She always encouraged me to play in college, and that was critical for me. I’m lucky.

My mom, she was a good one.”

Good, too, was Jacy’s entire Foxcroft experience. “ I think the competitive nature of Foxcroft’s program prepared me well for college sports,” she said. “But there was definitely a learning curve, and a weight lifting curve. Practices and workout regimes at the college level are very intense and time consuming, so the hardest part of the transition was figuring out a sports/academic balance.

I have to say, though, it definitely made me keep a tight schedule and I can thank sports for giving me a much needed physical and emotional outlet to keep me on track with a rigorous academic load.”

Edelman’s second biggest fan no doubt was the woman who started her playing competitive sports back in the fifth grade. That would be longtime Hill School athletic director and field hockey coach Sydney Bowers.

“I definitely caught the sports bug from her,” Edelman said. “She was really intense and passionate about cultivating a sport for everyone at Hill. I remember to this day that she would always tell students to just do your best, that as long as you were doing your best, you would be successful in anything you tried. I know that sounds kind of cheesy, but it carried me through my high school career, in college and even in my professional career.”

Edelman, now 37, lives in the Boston area with her partner, Jef Czekaj, an author and illustrator of children’s books, and their 20-monthold son, Oliver. She played high-level club field hockey until she finally stopped about three months into her pregnancy, and hopes to get back to playing her favorite sport at some point.

She also works at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as the project coordinator of an educational technology grant from Merck, the pharmaceutical company. She supports teachers and students at a Cambridge public elementary school in integrating technology into their classrooms. She’s also been teaching an interactive technology graduate class at Lesley for the past seven years.

Edelman clearly credits her virtually lifelong participation in competitive team sports with any other success she’s achieved along the way.

“For me, it was always my outlet in terms of being grounded and and having some balance in my life,” she said. “I always liked to study and work hard, and it was critical for me to expend that energy out on the field and get rid of any frustration I may have had. Sports was my rock and my balance. It seemed like the more I had to do, the more I was able to get done. It pushed me both athletically and academically.

“I can’t tell you you enough about the values it gave me. We’re always talking in education about teaching 21st Century skills. Sports gives you tenacity, perseverance, grit, problem-solving, lead-ership skills. And all those traits have always supported me in my professional life, too.”

And always with a proud mom still cheering her on. n

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akefield School sophomore and Upperville native Hannah Rutti has musical talent in her blood. Learning to sing from her grandmother at the age of two, and having her father Roger Rutti accompany her as a classical guitarist, it’s no surprise she was selected to sing at Carnegie Hall in New York at the end of February.

The 2015 High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall presented by WorldStrides, the nation’s leading educational travel organization, is a yearly event established to showcase the most talented high school students from North America and several international schools. Rutti performed as a first soprano with the Honors Choir.

Auditions for the Honors Performance Series took place this past fall and included a rigorous application and audition process to evaluate talent, dedication, and achievements from more than 10,000 applicants.

“I sang two classical art songs, one by Franz Schubert and another one by Girolamo Frescobaldi,” Rutti said. “The Carnegie institute contacted me by email after about two months and let me know that I was selected for the performance.”

Being chosen to perform was the culmination of eight years of study. She’s taken voice lessons the last four years with Dr. Janette Ogg, Professor Emeritus of Shenandoah University, and also studied jazz and music production with Dr. Adrian Re. “My favorite style is classical, but I also enjoy blues, jazz and all types of music,” she said.

“Music conveys emotions that are difficult to express in words. I also enjoy sharing my joy of music with others.”

Rutti currently participates in the Wakefield School Chorus and has performed in several school musicals. She’s been performing at

Contributed Photo

public and private functions since 2012, earning first place in 2011 at the Bland Regional Vocal Competition for her age group and second place in the 2010 competition.

Although Rutti had visited New York City many times, the chance to perform at perhaps one of the most famous musical venues while still a teenager is something she will never forget. On that same stage, famous musicians including The Beatles, Nina Simone, and The Beach Boys have appeared at the height of their careers.

The 500 finalists selected along with Rutti studied under famed conductor Dr. Eph Ehly and other master conductors for five days before their public performance. Finalists also got to see a Broadway play and go on sightseeing tours.

“I was most excited about this opportunity because I met Eph Ehly,” she said. “I don’t really get nervous before performances, but I find that some voice exercises and a lot of rest on the day of the performance helps.”

After Rutti graduates from Wakefield, she hopes to continue her musical education and major in vocal performance while in college. Although she hasn’t picked the school yet, a top music conservatory like Julliard is her dream. In the meantime, gaining experience in all aspects of the music industry is her passion.

“I enjoy musical theater and opera and would like to have the experience of performing in professional productions in both areas,” she said. “I also enjoy working in a recording studio and I am currently working on making my first marketable CD.” In addition to music, Rutti’s other interests include horseback riding and a love of all animals. As a lifelong local, she also enjoys visiting with friends she’s had for many years.

“Middleburg is a small community that is very personal and unique,” she said. “I was very proud [to be selected to perform] and all of my family and friends have been very supportive.” n

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The Crawley Family in the Octagon Room at Basildon, which serves as the drawing room at Downton

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Margaret Iliffe as a debutant in the sitting room at Basildon.

Filming in the Basildon Park Octagon Room

amiddleburg connection to Downton Abbey

By Dulcy Hooper For Middleburg Life

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or legions of devoted Downton Abbey fans, Highclere Castle, located in Hampshire, England, is well known as the location for the Crawley family’s fictional Yorkshire country estate. Less well known, however, is the setting of the Crawley family’s London residence, Grantham House, at Basildon Park, an 18th century Georgian mansion overlooking the Thames Valley in Berkshire, 20 miles north of Highclere Castle.

Long-time Middleburg resident Margaret

Iliffe Gardner, who grew up in Great Britain and is still a British citizen, lived at Basildon Park for several years. After losing her parents at a young age, her cousin Edward Langton Iliffe, 2nd Baron Iliffe, and his wife, Renee Merandon du Plessis, the owners of Basildon, welcomed young Margaret Iliffe.

“Living at Basildon gave me a great appreciation for that time of life and for 18th century antiques,” Gardner said. “It was very kind of them to welcome me as they did.”

Along with Basildon’s starring role in the Sunday evening Masterpiece production on PBS, a companion piece, Manners at Downton Abbey, was also taped at Basildon. This docu-

mentary delivers an in-depth view of “the world of British etiquette,” including the importance of “laying the table” correctly.

“And as far as setting a table, that was drilled into us,” Gardner said. The Crawley family’s dining room is replete with family place cards and a myriad of spoons and forks and knives perfectly placed.

The interiors of Basildon Park are notable for the original plaster work and elegant staircase. The Octagon Room, with its ornate molded ceilings with sunken panels, is featured as a drawing room in the series. John B. Papworth who, in 1795, described himself as “an architect, plasterer and builder,” designed it. He

was a founding member of the Royal Institute of British Architects. Several pieces from the house were part of the memorable Treasure Houses of Britain exhibition in Washington at the National Gallery from November, 1985 to April, 1986.

Basildon’s dining room has been transformed into a Downton Abbey ballroom, and the library doubles as a study/library. The Crimson Bedroom serves as Lady Mary’s boudoir, resplendent with original damask hangings on the state bed. “I remember the Crimson Bedroom from my honeymoon,” Gardner recalled.

Basildon Park was built between 1776

B The Iliffe wedding party at Basildon Park The Basildon Park ballroom serves as the Downton Abbey dining room

derelict is hardly good enough,” Lady Iliffe later wrote. “It was appallingly cold and damp. And yet, there was still an atmosphere of former elegance, and a feeling of great solidity . . .”

Gardner recalled Lady Iliffe offering her what was at the time referred to as the India Room.

“This room is yours if you paint it,’” Gardner remembered her saying. “It was an enormous room, and there were two big buckets of paint, one white and one yellow. I painted the walls yellow and the white for the 18th century molding. And I did every bit of it myself.”

Over 25 years, Lord and Lady Iliffe restored Basildon Park to its original glory.

“Dry rot was the worst of it,” Gardner said.

“They had to replace all of the timber.” Lady Iliffe scoured the countryside and salvaged 18th century architectural fittings and features from demolished homes, filling Basildon Park with fine paintings, fabrics, and furniture.

“We had Chateau Margeaux every evening with dinner,” Gardner said. “I was 18 years old

at the time, and I did not even like it. Instead, I loved Coca Cola. Now, the tables have certainly turned.”

When Lady Iliffe visited Middleburg several years before her death, Gardner hosted a dinner, which a few local guests may recall and for which the table was no doubt set according to Downton Abbey standards.

“Lady Iliffe kept trying to get me to move some marble sculptures during her visit,” Gardner said. “She thought they’d look better elsewhere. Fortunately, they were too heavy for us to move ourselves, and I just kept telling her that the ‘help’ was gone.”

Lord Iliffe died in 1996 and Lady Iliffe in 2007, having lived in one of the pavilions of Basildon Park after bequeathing the house they had rescued to the National Trust in 1976.

They not only gave the house, but 400 acres of park land and a substantial endowment to the National Trust in the hope that “The National Trust will protect it and its park for future generations to enjoy.” n

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and 1783 for Sir Francis Sykes (whose name writer Charles Dickens used for Bill Sykes in his book, Oliver Twist). Through the years, the house passed through a succession of owners.

By 1910 it was empty and in 1914 was requisitioned by the British Government as an army convalescent hospital.

Edward Iliffe, 1st Baron Iliffe, purchased Basildon in 1928 in order to expand his Yattendon lands. In 1929, the house was sold to George Ferdinando, who intended to dismantle and rebuild it in the United States. It was stripped of many fixtures and fittings and all but abandoned and never relocated. Some decorative wall panels and fittings can now be seen in the Basildon Room at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.

During World War II, the house was again requisitioned, serving as a barracks, a training ground for tanks and finally a prisoner of war camp. In 1952, the park was purchased

by Lord Iliffe’s son, Edward Langton Iliffe, 2nd Baron Iliffe and his new bride. “To say it was

As a bride, Margaret Iliffe descends the stairs at Basildon

asildon Park is featured in the Season Five finale of the popular period drama, Downton Abbey. The house also was featured in the special London Season episode of Downton Abbey in 2013, which was watched by over 10 million British viewers. A trip to Basildon Park allows visitors to experience what it was like to transform the house into a working production set with an insider’s guide to the filming of the show and plenty more for fans of the Downton series.

The interiors of Basildon Park are used as the Crawley family’s London residence, Grantham House.

In the Season Five finale, the elegant Georgian mansion is at the heart of Lady Rose and Atticus Aldridge’s wedding. Basildon Park played host to all of the much-loved regular characters from the show.

During the London Season episode in 2013, the house was at the center of the unfolding story as the family prepared for Rose’s coming out ball in the capital. Shirley MacLaine reprised her role as Martha Levinson and Paul Giamatti joined the cast as Cora’s playboy brother, Harold.

There’s plenty for Downton Abbey fans to see and do at Basildon Park, including: Guided house tours with details about the filming every Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. from Nov. 3-28.

A new video explains in more detail which rooms were used and some of the most significant historic objects and artifacts in each room.

Group bookings of over 15 people can opt for a filming talk or tour, where visitors can learn what happens behind the scenes when a National Trust property is used as a film location.

The Basildon Park grounds, shop and tea room are open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. From Nov. 3-28 the house is open for guided tours only from noon to 3 p.m. on weekdays, and on weekends for tours from 11 a.m., and is fully open starting at noon.

From Dec. 29-31, the house is open and decorated for Christmas from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information go to http://www.nationaltrust. org.uk/basildon-park/visitor-information/article-1355824843451/#6 – Courtesy of the National Trust. n

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TO VISIT BASILDON PARK

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Oliver Schwartz, Highland Senior from Delaplane, Will Play Lead Role in The King and I

By Joanne R. Kresic For Middleburg Life

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dedicated and ambitious theater and music director, active in Middleburg and Fauquier County for many years, Michael Hughes, Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department at Highland School in Warrenton, believes in bringing classical theater to students and the community. And each year, he bases his choice of productions on the talent that he sees and helps to develop over the years.

That he has chosen to direct, for this year’s spring musical, the Rogers and Hammerstein classic, The King and I, indicates that Highland does indeed have a great deal of acting and musical talent. With a cast of 50 students (actors, singers, dancers) from a PK student of three and a half years old to the seasoned actors in the senior class, the endeavor is huge.

In addition to the largest-ever cast, there is an ensemble of 25 musicians from the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra, and that many more involved in costume and set design, lighting and sound. With a total of close to 100 involved in bringing the musical to life, Highland School has never before produced anything for the stage on this scale.

Set in Siam (now Thailand) in 1862, The King and I tells the extraordinary and true story of the relationship between the King of Siam and the British governess hired to teach his royal children and bring a bit of the modern, western world to Siam. Tapped to play the iconic role of the domineering and charismatic King of Siam, ever etched in our minds by Yul Brynner in the Broadway production and the

film version, is Highland senior Oliver Schwartz of Delaplane.

Active in Highland School productions since Lower School, Oliver has the enormous task of bringing the King to life with every deliberate step and every bellowing etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. Unassuming and polite, Oliver jokingly reasons, “Well, nobody does short and tan better than I.” On a more serious note, he credits Highland’s intensive program that puts children on stage to speak, whether for assemblies or lower school plays, with making him, and all students, comfortable with public speaking. As his last Highland production, Oliver, when asked about some of his most meaningful experiences Oliver Schwartz will play the lead role in Highland School production of The King and I during his years at Highland School, credits Michael Hughes and his wife Diane with drawing him into As opening night (March 6), draws near, and is also home of the Piedmont Symphony theater and helping him to develop and refine Michael Hughes remains rooted in what he Orchestra. Tickets will be available at the door his acting technique. “I am grateful to them has always believed about theater programs for five performances: Friday, March 6 and Satfor everything they have done for me over the in schools. “Every student who has played a urday, March 7 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 8 at years,” he says. Off to Tulane University in New role on stage has discovered something about 3 p.m. with half price tickets for seniors. Friday, Orleans in the fall, Oliver is excited to be in a themselves. Anything seems possible after you March 13 and Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m. city where music and theater play an important have conceived of and shaped a character and The evening performance on Friday, March 13 role in the lives of citizens. A long-time soccer performance and given it to the audience from will be preceded by the annual “Empty Bowls” dinner, where ceramic students have created player and relatively new student to the trum- the stage, ” he said.

Highland students will perform The King bowls for sale to benefit the hungry in Fauquier pet, he is looking forward to developing musiand I in the school’s 380-seat Rice Theater in the County. Soup will be served as well. For more cally at Tulane. As for Highland, he will miss Performing Arts Center.

It is an acoustic gem information on The King and I, visit the Highwhat he feels is a community that is more than a school. For Oliver, it feels like a family as well. that was added to Highland’s campus in 2004, land web site at www.highlandschool.org. n

At Highland, a Pre-K to Grade 12 independent day school in Warrenton, we know that every child is unique. Our students get the tools and opportunities they need to discover themselves and the world around them in an academically challenging yet supportive and engaging environment.

AT HIGHLAND, YOU CAN BE INNOVATIVE

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If you are looking for new challenges and opportunities, find yourself at Highland School. Please contact Donna Tomlinson at 540-878-2740 to explore our campus, meet our students and educators, and find out what sets Highland – and Highland students – apart.

LEARN MORE AT OUR OPEN HOUSE Join us for our next Open House on Sunday, March 8 at 1:00pm.

To register, please call Donna Tomlinson at 540-878-2740 or sign up online today at highlandschool.org/openhouse

HIGHLAND SCHOOL Be

yourself at Highland

Sign up for our Open House today at

highlandschool.org/openhouse

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Celebrating 30 Years in Middleburg With Honesty and Integrity

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www.middleburglife.net March 2015

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The Aldie Peddler Offers Merlot, Milo and Much More

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Photo by Sophie Scheps

Wally Lunceford

www.middleburglife.net

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By Linda Young For Middleburg Life

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ally Lunceford had a 30-year career with Safeway, first in Alexandria and for many years in Middleburg, where he was a long-time friendly fixture. His effervescent personality is now on display daily at his own business, the Aldie Peddler, a wine and outdoor furniture store on Route 50 he owns with his business partner, Terry Cotton.

Back when he was working in Alexandria, Lunceford and Cotton often drove out to the Middleburg area just because they liked the countryside as a getaway from the frenetic of life inside the beltway. Passing through Aldie, they always admired the old house located next to their current shop.

Built in 1795, at one time it served as the town’s tavern. On one weekend jaunt, they saw that the house was for sale and Lunceford bought it on the spot. Nesta Harper, owner of the house, also sold him the building next door

that once was Aldie’s apothecary in the 1800s.

Lunceford has always been a wine connoisseur and he and Cotton believed they could start a business that would offer a wide variety of wines from around the world.

After they opened, he also learned that sometimes your family’s history finds you, rather than the other way around. A few years after Lunceford settled in to the historic home, a customer came into the store and told him that he’d recently read a book about the Civil War and came across the name of John Henry Lunceford. That turned out to be Lunceford’s great, great uncle, now buried near The Plains.

He believes his long-lost relative may have been involved in one of the battles in or around Aldie.

The Aldie Peddler now sells wine from around the world—Argentina and Chile, France and Germany and many other grapegrowing locales. Customers are welcome to taste any wine in the store and will usually leave with something they love, with prices ranging from $5 to $400 a bottle. A sign outside advertises 100 different wines for under $10. They also carry an exquisite selection of “bubbly” or celebratory wines, including Dibon, a particular favorite of Lunceford’s.

Another Lunceford favorite is “The Milo Room,” named after a big, white boxer he rescued in 1999 and a beloved dog that captured his heart and that of every customer who entered the shop. He was an unofficial greeter at the Aldie Peddler; if Lunceford was in the store, so was Milo.

Shortly before Milo died a few years ago, Lunceford came up with the idea of creating other products that paired well with a glass of wine. They include apple butter, pumpkin butter, sweet potato butter, a variety of salsas;

including the peach habanero, which flies off the shelves. The watermelon rind and pickled asparagus are other popular salsas. There are salad dressings too numerous to name and many Virginia peanuts in several varieties.

Nearly every jar has Milo’s picture on its label and virtually all of the products are made in Shawnee Springs, just north of Winchester.

Lunceford likes to say that even if Milo is gone, his presence in the store has not been forgotten.

Lunceford was the first “peddler” to offer furniture made of completely recycled material in Aldie. They include Adirondack chairs, benches, tables and picnic tables in several different colors. The store also features rocking chairs made out of oak or cherry and Lunceford said he sells as much wine as he does furniture.

Sadly, 2014 was a challenging year. The residence had an electrical fire that resulted in the downstairs being heavily damaged by smoke. The staircase was burned so there was no way to get upstairs. The rebuild has been slow and Lunceford has been living in Leesburg until the house is completely renovated.

Still, he said he’s optimistic and looking to the future in which he plans to create an outdoor patio/tasting room.

Also, there’s been the new addition of Slugger, another white Boxer who bears a striking resemblance to Milo. The dog will continue the tradition of greeting and entertaining many of the enthusiastic customers who can’t resist stopping by the Aldie Peddler for that special taste of wine, a wet kiss from Slugger and a delightful conversation with his affable owner. n

Equestrian Facilities

Old World Skill & Craftsmanship

Quality isn’t a goal; it’s a way of life. At B&D Builders, we are committed to excellence in everything we do; from expert engineering to the choice of quality building materials. With an eye for building design and a careful attention to detail, our craftsmen seek to bring you an equine facility that functions well and looks great for many years to come. You can depend on B&D Builders for professional planning, scheduling and management of your project.

Request a quote at 717.687.0292 or by visiting our website.

Discover More at CustomBarnBuilding.com

Nestled in Fauquier County’s Rolling Hills

M i d d l e b u r g L i f e

‘Hound Hall’ Celebrates English Country Architecture on 100 Acres

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Facts for buyers

Address: The Plains Listed at: $6,500,000 by John Coles (540) 687-5522 and Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601, Thomas and Talbot Real Estate.

March 2015

as marble vanities and separate water closets.

Laundry facilities and a small office are first-level bonuses.

Four charming bedrooms are found on the upper level, while the lower level is home to a game room, media room, home gym and Pentagon brand gun safe, perfect for sportsmen and non-sportsmen alike.

There also is a guest suite on the lower level, with its own walk-out entrance – further evidence of the attention lavished on the design of the property.

About 70 of the 100 acres are a mix of open, rolling fields (with the equestrian facilities), while the remaining 30 acres is wooded. Mature trees and plantings thrive throughout the grounds.

The equestrian facilities are accessible from the main residence in addition to a separate entrance off Burrland Lane.

Perfect for show horses, eventers, or

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The center hall also accesses the wood-paneled library, with its meticulously crafted built-in book cases and a fireplace.

Adjacent to the living room is the modern eat-in kitchen and family room, accented by a large stone fireplace, exposed-oak beams and random-width oak flooring. French doors open to the back terrace.

The kitchen features lovely wormy chestnut cabinetry, a breakfast bar, topquality appliances and ample storage space for the budding gourmet’s tools.

The master retreat, with its enormous picture window, provides marvelous views of the property and access via French doors to the large flagstone terrace that graces the entirety of the back of the home. It boasts his-and-hers bath and dressing rooms, both featuring tile floors, roomy walk-in closets with builtin cabinets, drawers and shelves, as well

fox hunters, the 17-stall Belmont barn features a heated main tack room/lounge with sink, cabinets and storage, and a full bath with stand up shower, in addition to a smaller tack/storage room.

The well-lit and airy barn also has grooming and wash stalls with hot and cold water, as well as a feed room with built in grain bins and shelves above.

There is tremendous storage available in the hayloft above.

A second barn contains two stalls, a hayloft, and a roomy two-bedroom ground floor apartment with full kitchen, living room, laundry room and full bath.

Seventeen fenced paddocks are easily accessed from the barns, the larger of which have run-in sheds.

A quarter-mile exercise track winds its way around the back field, perfect for conditioning work. The outdoor riding arena is fenced and top grade Eurofelt weatherproof footing has been installed.

A round pen and five-bay machine shed complete the equestrian facility, rounding out our tour of an exceptional property.

Articles are prepared by Middleburg Life’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients.

For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Middleburg Life real estate advertising department at (540) 687-6059.

www.middleburglife.net

Set on a prime locale of just over 100 acres in Orange County Hunt territory, this month’s featured property – “Hound Hall” – showcases a main house that is reminiscent of the English Country style, and features amenities designed for those with passion for equestrians.

“Comfortable yet refined” is the hallmark of this property, and both the home and the grounds offer attention to detail that is unsurpassed. All this, and the prime location is close to both The Plains and Middleburg.

The property currently is on the market, listed at $6,500,000 by John Coles and Barrington Hall of Thomas and Talbot Real Estate.

A welcoming stone pillar gateway marks the pea-gravel drive, which winds its way to the light-filled, sophisticated residence. Twelve-foot ceilings, numerous fireplaces, large windows, beautiful woodwork and exquisite quarter-sawnoak flooring are a few of special touches adding to the ambiance.

Stepping through the front door, the slate foyer immediately sets the tone of stylish élan, with tremendous attention to detail. A walnut staircase is a prime focal point.

The living room is to our right off the center hall. A stunning stone fireplace and exposed-oak beams accent this spacious and sun-filled room, while three sets of French doors open to the flagstone terrace.

The formal dining room, with its arched entryway with pocket sliding doors, is a celebration of style and perfect for gatherings throughout the year. The character of the dining room is further enhanced by wormy chestnut wainscoting and large bay window facing west.

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Custom Built stone/stucco three-story home with 4 bedrooms plus large master in-law suite with separate parking and entrance. Slate roof,game room,custom theatre, workout room, study, office, dog room,custom kitchen, 4 stone fireplaces, approximately 8,000 SF. Extensive horse facilities include 18 stall barn,2 stall barn, 14 paddocks, lg. ring and much more. $6,500,000

The stately 128+ Acre Middleburg Virginia Country Estate offers a genteel lifestyle and majestic views.

Handsome stone and clapboard manor home, 3 additional homes, 2 apartments, farm office, 6 barns, 45 stalls, indoor arena, all beautifully maintained and surrounded by the meticulously groomed grounds.

Generator back up power. $5,500,000

Longwood Farm ~ 624 acres with an exceptional Broodmare Barn built in 2003 with 32 stalls, a lovely 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Tenant House, another 2 Bedroom Tenant House, 3 run-in sheds and hay barn. This is part of Spring Hill Farm. $5,029,543

Magnificent 155 Acre Atoka Road Estate with gated entry opening into the private drive lined with mature trees. The charming historic manor home, c. 1827 backs to expansive views of fields and ponds. 4 tenant homes, 3 barns, indoor and outdoor riding arenas. Gently rolling pasture land with fenced paddocks and fields. Property is in a VOF $3,600,000 conservation easement.

Magnificent country retreat on 41 acres with incredible privacy & beautiful views. The c. 1850 manor home has been graciously expanded into a 7 bedroom home with separate entertaining venue & two-story office with T-1 capability. Pool, tennis court, gardens, greenhouse, 5 car garage. $3,350,000

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c. 1774, Sited high on a knoll, the 16 room Manor Home and “Garden Tea House” enjoy expansive views of mountains, rolling hills and the property’s wonderful Shenandoah River frontage. Once a thoroughbred breeding farm, it offers 20+ stalls and numerous paddocks. North Hill’s rich history provides potential for Historic Preservation Tax Credits. $2,790,000

A lovely 4 bedroom, 6 bath home on over 17 acres in a great location, minutes to Middleburg & The Plains. Gourmet kitchen with 60'' Vulcan Range, pizza oven, Star grill, beautiful cherry floors, high ceilings, flowing floor plan, attached 3 car garage and much more. Orange County Hunt territory. $2,500,000

The 26 acre estate sits in magnificent horse country approx. one mile west of Middleburg just off the much desired Zulla Road, this estate includes the 1½ story white brick manor home w/2 car attached garage, 4 car detached garage, heated pool, 3 stall barn with run-in shed, 2 large paddocks and offers tremendous ride out potential. $2,450,000

Overlooking a serene pond, this magnificent European style manor home is on 115 acres surrounded by thousands of protected acres and the Bull Run Mountains.

Custom built in 2001 using Olde World craftsmanship and materials this stunning home offers five bedrooms, 6 baths, 10’ ceilings, wide plank flooring, pool and geo thermal heating and cooling. $2,395,000

Private 65 Acre Estate near historic Middleburg. 3 porches add to the charm of this restored Farm House, c.1830 w/ pool and shared pond. Other features include 4 stall barn w/ guest suite, 4 bay open equipment barn and 2 bay garage.

Beautiful land w/ views, creek, meadows and board fenced pastures w/ spring fed waterers. VOF and PEC Easements do allow for two additional dwellings. $2,395,000

18+ acres of mostly open and rolling land with the home sited perfectly with vast views from both front and back overlooking the pond, gardens and front fields. Cathedral ceilings, Master on the main floor, huge library/living room, private guest rooms, apartment on lower level w/own kitchen/entrance, sprawling deck w/awning. Perfect location ~ OCH territory ~ VOF conservation easement. $2,095,000

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90 acres w/approx. 45 fenced acres and 45 acres in woods with trails. 3 bedroom manor home, Indoor and Outdoor Arenas, 2 barns open into the indoor arena, Main barn has 20 stalls, Show Barn- 5 oversized stalls, 3 tack rooms, office, 2 wash stalls, 2 bathrooms, laundry room, 14 paddocks. Manager’s cottage.

2 add’l DUR’s and is in land use. $1,900,000

Located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the farm is beautifully sited so that the views are enjoyed from many of the spacious rooms and porches. Wonderful finishes, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, reclaimed flooring, first floor owner’s suite, finished lower level incl. second kitchen, pool. Fenced paddocks, 3 stall barn and, wonderful views! $1,650,000

Stunning restoration and addition of c.1860’s Virginia Manor Home, yielding approximately 8,000 sq. ft. of beautiful living space. Reclaimed heart pine flooring throughout the main and upper level of home, grand kitchen, 5 bedrooms. Numerous outbuildings including a spacious tasting room/party room.

Currently the 7 acres of vines are leased to another vineyard.

Land in Open Space Easement. $1,599,000

A stunning 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath stucco home on 13.77 acres in prime location on a quiet lane only minutes to Middleburg.

Exceptional quality and attention to detail throughout this lovely home. Mostly open with fencing, 3 stall barn, detached 1 car garage and more. Burrland Lane, Orange County Hunt Territory. $1,480,000

53+ acres of beautiful, open and gently rolling land with expansive views of the countryside and distant mountains. Located in the coveted Orange County Hunt Territory of Fauquier County, this land provides exceptional ride-out potential. A home-site has been studied including engineers report verifying a site for a 5 Bedroom septic, well and potential pond site. Open space easement, land $1,400,000 cannot be divided.

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 5 bath home on over 50 acres with incredible views in all directions. Perfect for horse enthusiasts or great for enjoying country living. Elegant living spaces perfect for parties. Fencing, convertible barn, water features, lush gardens, covered porches and decks for outdoor entertaining and much more. ODH Territory. $1,345,000

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LOGANS MILL - Extraordinary, private estate area on 179+ acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, less than 10 minutes from Middleburg, views in all directions. $18,000/Acre

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NAKED MOUNTAIN - Delaplane, 276 acres of land on Naked Mountain. A true hunter's paradise! Mostly wooded, very private. Nice elevation, from 670 to 1,400.

Kettle Run stream runs through, great opportunity for tax credits. $1,159,410 BLUEMONT LAND - 2 parcels in Piedmont Hunt Territory ~ Mostly open, rolling and fully fenced land and accessed from 3 roads. 1 home of clapboard enhance this beautiful property.

71+acres: $995,000

www.Thomas-Talbot.com Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice.

Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

This 2,692 square foot professional office building was built in 1800 on a lot size of 0.110009 Acre(s). 2 large office suites and 4 addition offices in a great location with separate parking area as well as side street parking. Complete renovation in '06. $1,099,000

Markham - 76+/- ACRES 3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath, 1 Half Bath home could be main house or Guest House. Fencing, Privacy and more. Great Mountain Views, Pond. Please, No drive throughs. $699,000

ThoMAs AnD TAlBoT ReAl esTATe A STAUNCH ADVOCATE OF LAND EASEMENTS LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1967 (540) 687-6500 Middleburg, Virginia 20118

March 2015

18 acres in the heart of OCH Territory with a lovely 5.5 Bedroom Italianate Style home in a beautiful setting. Formal and informal spaces, high ceilings, wonderful kitchen, expansive rec room, full basement, private pool, extensive landscaping and more. Property is in a VOF Open-Space easement. $1,199,000

RECTORTOWN: 107.76 acres Spectacular views from this highly desirable estate location within the Orange County Hunt Territory. Board fenced with frontage on Atoka Road and Rectortown Road. Stocked, approx. 4 acre, pond w/island, spring fed from tributary of Goose Creek. Open Space Easement allows for building of main dwelling, garage or barn with apt. and appropriate farm structures. Zoned RA. $1,250,000

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Artisitic Rendering. Wonderfully restored farm house on 51+ acres in a desired location. Master on first floor, slate floors, wood floors, granite counters, newer appliances, older section built in 1930's, attached 1 car, separate detached 2 car garage, 2 zoned heating and cooling and much more. $1,275,000

POTTS MILL - on 137+ acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, within 5 miles of the village of Middleburg, views in all directions. $18,500/Acre

www.middleburglife.net

March 2015

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Comparable to exquisite Kentucky Horse Farms, 753.23 gently acres of rolling fields are lined with white board fencing.

Features include a gracious 6 bedroom manor home, pool with house, 8 barns, large machine shop, 2 ponds, 9 tenant homes and at one of the entrances, the owner’s handsome office inclusive of conference and impressive trophy room. $7,500,000

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Squash Is Quite the Racket for Gibbens’ Grandsons

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

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s a Texas native, Wayne Gibbens admits “I’d never even heard of squash, except for what you eat, and I didn’t much like it.” These days, however, he can’t get enough squash—the sport that is, and still definitely not the vegetable.

Gibbens and his wife Beth are the properly proud Middleburg grandparents of Sam and John Epley, the teenage sons of their daughter, Elizabeth, and her husband Mark. The boys are among the nation’s finest junior division squash players, with Sam, 18, heading to Dartmouth to play the warp-speed racket game as a freshman next fall.

John, 15, also has the potential to soar to the same stratospheric level.

The Epleys live in Old Greenwich, Connecticut and Sam and John go to the Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., a 40-minute commute from their home. Elizabeth Epley grew up in the Washington area and spent much of her free time riding and showing horses in and around Middleburg. Her family spends a good part of their summers at the Gibbens farm not far from town “and I really do consider Middleburg home,” she said.

All of them also spend a good bit of time watching Sam and John play in events around the country and abroad, as well.

In early January, Sam was a member of an elite four-man U.S. National team that represented the country at the prestigious British Junior Open in Sheffield, England, considered the Wimbledon of junior squash competition. Last year, he participated in the U.S. Junior National championships at Princeton and was presented the William T. Ketchum Jr. award for being the most improved player in the nation in his age

group. He’s now ranked No. 9 nationally in the 19-and-under division, and already has two tournament victories over No. 2 Bransten Ming of Burlingame, California.

At one point, John was ranked No. 9 nationally in the 13-and-under division, but he’s been hampered by hip injuries for a good part of the last two years. He’s recovered nicely from corrective surgery and is now rounding back into shape and playing competitively again with his game clearly moving in the same top-tier direction as his big brother.

“A lot of people call squash physical chess,” Sam said. “It’s chess at 150 miles an hour. It’s a huge stress on physical strength and mental strength. You’re always thinking, and it en-compasses everything a sport should be.”

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John Epley

Sam Epley

“I like the quickness of it and the strategy of it,” John said. “And it’s a social game, too. You make a lot of friends, and you can play until you’re 90.”

Both boys played lacrosse and baseball until about five years ago. The family had been living in Bronxville, N.Y. and were members of a local tennis club that also had squash courts. Better yet, several world class squash players also belonged, including Gamal Amir, an Egyptian who introduced Sam and John to the sport.

“The year Sam started, we had something like 20 snow days,” Elizabeth said. “”Sam would walk down the hill over to the club, and he’d play with Gamal and some of the Egyptian players. They play a really fun style of squash.

The English style is a little more precise and disciplined. The Egyptians use a lot of tricks; they play a more free form style, and the boys fell in love with it because they made the game super fun.”

There are other great benefits. When they travel abroad, the Epleys make certain to add

26A LOUDOUN ST, ROUND HILL- Incredible Handicap Accessible LL Apartment w/ separate level entrance (no stairs). Wide doorways, lower counter tops. Loads of full sized windows let in the Natural Light. 900sf Workshop w/its own 200amp electric service, heat & AC. Shed. Home has been impeccably cared for. No maintenance Deck/railing. Front Porch. Perfect location on the East side of Round Hill. NO HOA. Comcast internet. $547,500 Marcy Cantatore 540-533-7453

a healthy dose of culture to the itinerary, with side-trip visits to museums and other local sights.

Both boys have pals around the world. And Wayne and Beth Gibbens more than occasionally come along, as well.

Elizabeth said her notoriously gregarious father also has many friends on the circuit. The boys actually were somewhat mortified when Wayne sidled up to Alister Walker, one of the world’s top-ranked players, at a sandwich bar one day and started chit-chatting with him.

“Then we all got to know him because my dad made friends with him,” Elizabeth said.

“Everyone knows my dad. He even took Sam on some recruiting trips this year.”

“I love going to the tournaments and watching them play,” Wayne Gibbens said. “I never imagined when they started they’d be the players they are now. But what really pleases me is that they’re not only good players, they’ve also been named as scholar-athletes by the National Squash Association. No. 1, they’re just super kids. Great people.” n

SILCOTT SPRINGS RD, PURCELLVILLE- In the middle of HUNT COUNTRY-Bring the HORSES--you can use every inch of this 4.99+ acres. 3 STALL BARN w/ tack room, wash stall & hay storage. 140x75 sand & bluestone RING w/ LIGHTS, Tons of RIDE OUT. BOARD FENCING w/ 3 fenced fields.

VERY WELL CARED FOR UPDATED HOME w/ hardwood floors. Brick Fireplace. VIEWS from the DECK & front STONE PATIO. FENCED BACKYARD. IN-LAW SUITE w/ own ENTRANCE. FIOS $506,000

Marcy Cantatore 540-533-7453

LAND Two fantastic building lots in Upperville, 2 and 3 acres, perc for 4 bedrooms, convenient to Rt. 50, 17 and 66, 40 min to Dulles airport.

KENNEL RD, BOYCE, VA- Charming authentic log cabin, 5 acres in Clarke County south of rt 50. Potential for horses, huntbox, private lot, surrounded by land in easement. Beautiful wood flooring, beamed ceilings, front porch. Constructed in 1997, recent new HVAC throughout. Perfect for wknd get away or couple wanting to downsize. Within 5 minutes of village of Millwood, 50 min to Dulles airport, 20 min to Winchester. $405,000 Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499

MCQUAY LN, MIDDLEBURG, VA - Very Nice Bungalow .Great starter home or rental, fresh paint & refinished H/W floors, well lit. Agent owned. Granite countertop, SS Appliances, Very private off gravel road, one Acre lot, close to school, Ceramic baths and showers. In excellent condition. $299,900 Peter Pejacsevich Scott Buzzelli 540-270-3835 540-454-1399

John Mosby Hwy, UPPERVILLE, VA 3.2 Acres, FQ8472185, $235,000 John Mosby Hwy, UPPERVILLE, VA 2.2 Acres, FQ8477480, $320,000 Anne McIntosh

703-509-4499

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Old Dominion Hounds

Lovely mountain views, fish-filled pond, stable, 41 rolling, board fenced ac. Architect designed country house w/high ceilings, 1st floor master, 4 baths, Canary wood, Brazilian cherry, walnut & mahogany woodwork, stone fireplace, French doors to wrap-around porch, Hardiplank construction. Ultimate charm & quality.

$1,100,000

Tuck Lo

All-brick country house on 20-very private acres on popular Lee’s Ridge with mountain views, pond and guest house. High ceilings, 5-wood burning fireplaces, main floor master suite, ultimate kitchen, random width hardwood floors throughout, all 4 br with bath ensuite, wonderful spaces and much more. Exceptional quality.

$1,795,000

$2,850,000

$1,495,000

Manor House C. 1911

Extraordinary property just north of Warrenton on 50 private acres with stunning lake and distant views. Up to nine bedrooms, 7 fireplaces, center hall, 35 x 50 great room with beams and massive stone fireplace opening to terrace and lovely pool, cottage, stables. Many possibilities – explore potential for events, B&B etc.

$1,800,000

Historic District

One of the finest examples of old world Warrenton plus a beautifully restored 2 br, 2 ba cottage. Toll House C. 1820 & Louisiana House C. 1873 combine to create one spacious home with numerous marble fireplaces, heart pine floors, granite kitchen, 12x36 center hall, 12 ‘ ceilings, pocket doors. Easy walk to old town.

$989,000

Sunset Hills

Views across the lake to the mountains, fabulous in-law suite (great-room, 2 BR & 2 BA), high ceilings, spacious rooms, 28 acs, wonderful 4 stall center aisle stable with tack room, board fenced pastures, great privacy in fabled Old Dominion foxhunting country, swim, fish, hike, canoe…approx. 750 feet of lake frontage plus an island.

$999,000

Montreux

Spectacular estate with luxurious professionally decorated features including the finest woods, tile, wall coverings and fireplace surrounds. Professional caterer’s kitchen, 1000 bottle wine tasting cellar, theater room, whole home electronics, resort-like pool with waterfall and pool house, tennis, stable, river front.

Country living at its finest on 40-acres.

$2,900,000

Harkaway

Very convenient to Old Towne Warrenton. C. 1930 stone manor house has had recent substantial restoration including gourmet kitchen, baths, geothermal, elevator, 17’ bow window in great room offering unparalleled mountain views, numerous oversized fireplaces, curved English staircase, built-ins and more. Farm features 141 acres, stable, multiple cottages, pond.

$3,250,000

Allen Real Estate Co. Ltd.

$875,000

www.allenrealestate.com

March 2015

Foxville

Quietly situated in a treed setting on 65-acres with plenty of lush, rolling pasture. Spectacular mountain views from main level master suite, sunroom, family room and most of the property. Allbrick English country house has slate entry, custom woodwork/ built-ins, fireplaces, heart pine paneling…spacious yet warm. Near country club.

Tray Allen, Broker 540-222-3838

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Joe Allen, Broker 540-229-1770

www.middleburglife.net

Edgeworth

Log portion c.1759 with formal additions 1830 and 1850, all in pristine condition. 7 FP, 1st and 2nd floor masters, high ceilings, garages for 8 cars, stone guest house, cottage with 3 BRs, 3 Fpls, heated pool, 6 stall stable, barns, stocked pond, wonderful gardens, clouds of boxwood, flowering trees and shrubs, 100 beautiful rolling acres with fenced pastures. A John Marshall family home.

October Hill

Circa 1895 country house on 90 beautiful rolling acres of pasture, woodlands with trails, streams, and a pond. Ultimate privacy, mostly clear with patches of woodland, area of open space.

4 stall stable, fenced pastures, 120 x 70 metal building could be indoor arena. Excellent location on Lee’s Ridge Rd minutes from Warrenton.

M i d d l e b u r g L i f e

In and Around Warrenton, Va

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Aurora Services, Inc.

FARM, • • • • •

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www.auroraservicesinc.com u Professional Gate Consultation & Design Service

(540) 364-8069 (888) 5 Aurora

In the Kitchen with E T

Middleburg with Ed Wright Memories Lamb Stew

Providing the Following Services: (540) 937-2400, (888) 5 Aurora

u Proficiency with All Major Equipment Manufacturers

he weather seems to be trending to indicate March will come in like a lion this year, so what better time to produce a hearty lamb stew.

It was negative two degrees this morning when I took the dogs out, not counting the wind chill. But there is hope. mily ylEr Our days are getting longer and before we know it, we’ll be puttering around the garden seeing what survived the winter. Spring is full of rebirth and I think this one will feel quite miraculous.

By preparing the meat and vegetables separately, the vegetables keep their bright flavor and texture. The sweet parsnips and carrots are wonderful against the rich lamb and the baby peas and parsley balance it all out.

95% Purchase Financing

with No Mortgage Insurance

Because of Professionals like Terri, Contact With All Middleburg Me Mortgage was voted Best Mortgage Company in Loudoun County Your Mortgage Needs

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www.MiddleburgMortgage.com Southern Trust Mortgage, LLC, dba Middleburg Mortgage, is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Lender - NMLS 2921.

1 pound parsnips, peeled and cut into one-half by 2-inch pieces 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into one-half by 2-inch pieces 1 pound mushrooms, sliced 2 cup frozen baby peas, thawed Mashed or boiled potatoes (for serving if desired) • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

• Heat an oven proof Dutch oven or 5 quart stock pot to medium high heat and add 2 tablespoons of canola oil.

• Season the lamb with salt and pepper and arrange the lamb in a single layer in the hot oil and brown on all sides. Do them in batches and when they are browned, transfer them to a bowl.

• Add the onions after all the lamb has been browned and stir until they have lightly browned 2-3 minutes.

• Add the wine and scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

• Add the beef broth, mustard, honey, tomato paste, thyme and bay leaves.

• Add back the lamb and set in the oven, uncovered and braise for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until the lamb is tender and a tip of a knife easily pierces the meat. Check periodically and add one cup of water

towards the end of the cooking time.

• While the lamb is braising prepare the vegetables.

• On an aluminum foil lined baking sheet combine the parsnips and carrots and toss with one tablespoon of canola oil.

• Roast the vegetables in a 350-degree oven for about 45 minutes or until they are lightly browned in spots and are tender. When they are out of the oven, fold over the foil and cover the vegetables and let them rest. This will help loosen them from the foil.

• Heat a sauté pan to medium high heat and add the last tablespoon of oil and sauté the mushroom until they are golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.

• When the lamb is finished braising, remove from the oven.

• In a small sauce pan combine the flour and butter and heat to medium heat, when the mixture begins to bubble, add a cup of the juices from the lamb and stir until quite thick.

• Add this mixture back to the meat and the sauce will even out.

• Fold in the vegetables. Reheat if necessary.

• Serve over mashed or boiled new potatoes, sour cream and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

MIDDLEBURG OFFICE

Boyce

PURCELLVILLE OFFICE

100 Purcellville Gateway Drive, Suite 100B Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.1350 www.Purcellville.lnfre.com

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LEEsBURG OFFICE

508 East Market Street Leesburg, VA 20176 703.777.2900 www.Leesburg.lnfre.com

$1,500,000 Middleburg

$1,100,000

“Walnut Hall” Spectacular Manor Home. 134 acres.

Former thoroughbred breeding facility. Lovely country retreat with fenced paddocks, large run in sheds, rolling hills. In the style of Mt. Vernon with huge formal rooms, game room with bar & marble BAs throughout. A chef’s kitchen, butler’s pantry, wine cellar. 4 tenant homes.

CL8457895 www.159majestysprincelane.com

Stunning 72 ac equestrian property in Piedmont Hunt.

Incredible views and ride out, PJ Williams built 7 stall barn, office, tack room, 1/2 bath and lots of storage.

5 large paddocks w/run-in sheds. 100x200 ring w/ excellent footing. Fabulous one bedroom/bath apt w/den, heart pine floors, top appliances, screened porch. Property has several potential home sites.

FQ8475464

“Fairfax Found” Chink and log house dating back to 1732 was rescued and masterfully reconstructed and integrated into the existing home. Beautifully sited on 11 acres with open fields and mature woods.

Wonderful deck and flagstone, in ground swimming pool. Private but close to town.

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

Marci A. Welsh 703.906.5802

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

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M i d d l e b u r g L i f e

8 North Madison Street Middleburg, VA 20117 540.687.8530 www.MiddleburgSales.com

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Owner wants an offer! LO8382593

Middleburg Office 8 North Madison Street, Middleburg 540.687.8530 Purcellville Gateway Office 100 Purcellville Gateway Drive, Suite 100B, Purcellville 540.338.1350 Leesburg Office 508 East Market Street, Leesburg 703.777.2900

Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

$474,900

Wonderful brick Colonial home built in 2011 on 1.28 Acres.

Prime corner lot with side load garage and beautiful landscaping. Many upgrades and move in ready. Main level has hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops. 4 bedrooms with 4 walk in closets. Open floor plan is great for entertaining. Main level home office with mountain views. LO8486282

Linda Culbert 703.431.1724

$425,000 Purcellville

$279,000 Purcellville

$209,000

Location, Location, Location, 4.58 acre lot with beautiful pastoral views. Open land with 3 board fencing.

Level land with a gradual roll to the property. Location between Purcellville and Middleburg on state maintained hard surface road. Has the best of what Western Loudoun has to offer!! LO8486282

Gloria Burn 703.431.6836

Linda Culbert 703.431.1724

Linda Culbert 703.431.1724

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March 2015

Commercial – OWN YOUR OFFICE SPACE!! Build out to suit your needs. ZONED CM-1 Sun filled space with 20 windows, vaulted ceilings, palladium window. Second floor, private stairway to space, ample parking, space for 2 ADA bathrooms. Building Owner can complete build out. GREAT PURCELLVILLE LOCATION. LO8290659

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Charming Historic 2 Bedroom, 1.2 Bath Home which spurred the Pulitzer Prize winning author Russell Baker’s “Growing Up.” Lovingly restored & modernized w/ new HVAC, 2 newly lined fireplaces & $20k AGA Gas Range. Beautifully landscaped with Wisteria Covered Arbor above Patio Just 3 Miles South on RT 287 from Route 9. LO8525632

www.middleburglife.net

Lovettsville

Purcellville

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BILL TYLER HOMES Building Custom Homes

Art and Wine Intertwined At Arterra

in Loudoun and Fauquier

M i d d l e b u r g

for over 25 years We can work with any design team you have in mind. Our goal is yours: creating a dream project you can financially manage.

billtylerhomes.com 540.687.0223 bill@tylerconstructionmanagement.com

Bill Tyler Homes Family in Yellowstone Next Summer BuildingWeek Custom Homes in Loudoun and Fauquier

Weekly for overRental 25 years ½ mi toYellowstone

The barrel room at Arterrra

Photo by Sophie Scheps

We can work with any design team you have in mind. Our goal is

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yours: creating a dream project you can financially manage.

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Where: Silver Gate, MT at NE gate to Yellowstone Average Summer Temp: about 76 degrees Why: Best fishing and wildlife viewing in Yellowstone is just minutes away - wolves, When: Price: What: How:

grizzlies, Big Horn sheep, buffalo, etc.

Available: June, July, August, September, 2012 $1300/week-June & September. $1,400/week-July & August Two lg. bedrooms: sleeps 5 or family of 6 Fully furnished down to the wine glasses.

Reserve or more info at www.VRBO.com #201318 Or call 540-253-5545.

VA References available

JSC Construction, Inc. Jerry S. Coxsey General Contractor

In House: Carpentry Custom Homes & Renovations No Job Too Small, or Too Large

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•

March 2015

Stone Masons

24

540-341-7560 540-229-2285 Fax: 540-341-2829 Class A License & Insured

P.O. Box 1969 Middleburg, VA 20118

J

By Sophie Scheps For Middleburg Life

ason Murray and Sandy Gray-Murray’s love of art and wine have found a home together at Arterra Wines, their new family owned and operated winery.

Photo by Sophie Scheps Located in a secluded wooded area of Jason Murray and Sandy Gray-Murray Delaplane, Arterra is the culmination of years of expertise finally giving them confidence to really high quality character. He also harvests late to produce very ripe fruit. Both of these create branch out on their own.

“We first had the idea 11 years ago but the our unique taste.” magnitude of the project kept us from taking the Arterra Wines main focus is quality over leap,” Sandy said. “We didn’t start to feel comfort- quantity. Only producing a maximum of 1,200 able until we gained more experience. Probably cases of wine each year, a priority membership about three years ago when I started selling my club will ensure people who love the wine are art at wine festivals, it acted as a catalyst to get able to purchase before it is sold out. In their first us talking about the idea of starting something tasting weekend this past month, 18 members ourselves. It just became clear that our partner- have already joined.

“We’re very small and focused,” Sandy said. ship was viable and it was time.

“We want to concentrate on craftsmanship. Start After searching for years for the right proping from day one, each person that buys a case erty, the 75-acre parcel off Leeds Manor Road will receive a priority number and can return in had the perfect combination of location, soil type that order the next year to ensure they get the and elevation. “It was owned by the previous wine they want. ” owners of Naked Mountain Winery and when Sandy developed a passion for art because they found out that we were interested in using of her grandfather. Both attended the Maryland the land for a winery they were thrilled it would Institute College of Art in Baltimore. She gradube put to the same use,” Sandy said. ated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in painting and Jason Murray has been a winemaker in earned a Masters degree in education. After the Fauquier County for the past 11 years. Formerly birth of their second son, Sandy made the shift with Chateau O’Brien Winery and Vineyard from teaching and implementing art programs in Markham, he developed a reputation as an to creating Hawthorn Arts, her own independent expert in producing high quality red wines. endeavor.

Plans for an eight-acre vineyard on the Arterra property is in the works but in the mean- Her pieces are mixed media, including time, Jason sources his grapes from several local painting, carving and etched glass—all heavily growers that produce the highest quality fruit. inspired by wine. Many of the pottery pieces Specific acre blocks are dedicated to Arterra and include leaves from local vineyards and she uses produce European varietals including Malbec, parts of barrels to create unique designs.

“Focusing on the vineyard theme has given Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit me a niche I’ve never had before and it’s doing Verdot. really well,” she said.

“I’ve been very fortunate to work with

Future plans for Arterra include “Create people that are equality ambitious and conand Taste” experiences where visitors can come cerned with quality,” he said. “Even once our and sample the wine while they work with Sandy vineyard is established I’ll continue working with in her art studio located next to the tasting room them because the product is so great.” or go out into the vineyard to draw scenic views.

Jason grew up in an agricultural family and

Throughout the whole journey, Jason and participated in 4-H but wasn’t exposed to vineSandy have worked to realize their vision of yards until he was an adult. After earning a Bachcreating a space in which craftsmanship, both in elors and Masters degree in horticulture from the wine and art, can thrive in the same venue.

University of Maryland, he worked for Loudoun County as a commercial horticulturalist and that “Everything about this is us,” Sandy said.

“It’s been an incredible process. We are so humexposed him to the ins and outs of vineyards.

“Jason does two things that set him apart bled by how our family and friends have been so from other wine makers in the area,” Sandy said. supportive emotionally and financially. People in “One of them is native yeast fermentation, which the wine community have been so encouraging. means that all the fermentation starts with the We are very lucky and happy to be able to follow yeast that’s already on the skin. It’s a slower start- our dreams.” n ing fermentation but its what gives the wine a

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mcgoWan associates the villa

bolinvar

boxley farm w

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Magnificent Estate on 100 acres in a spectacular setting. The stone house boasts 22 elegant rooms, 9 fireplaces, high ceilings, all superbly detailed and beautifully appointed.

Brilliant gardens surround the heated pool.

Fabulous 11 stall stone stable with 2 staff apartments. Riding ring, green house all in pristine condition. additional 227 acres are available. $10,000,000

tuckahoe

Gracious country estate with over 6800 sq. ft. of spectacular living space on 20 gorgeous acres. High ceilings, elegant rooms, beautiful decor, 5 fireplaces, pristine condition. Brilliant gardens surround a fabulous pool. Separate studio/aupair suite, mahogony paneled library. breathtaking views of pastures and ponds. New roof, Heating & A/C, generator & more. $2,250,000

bridlepath

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Elegant English Manor House beautifully sited on approximately 100 acres of magnificent woodlands; Spectacular views and total privacy; Built with superior quality and craftsmanship, superbly detailed moldings;5 Fireplaces; Gleaming Wood Floors; Mahogany paneled Library and French doors opening to the flagstone verandah; Wine Cellar; 14â&#x20AC;&#x2122; ceilings; Great potential for $2,500,000 tax credits.

Fabulous country estate on 25+ acres with towering trees & magnificent gardens in an idyllic setting. Gorgeous woodworking, heart pine floors, 5 fireplaces, gourmet country kitchen, custom cabinetry throughout. Brick terrace overlooks pond and riding ring. Separate office/apartment, 4 stall center aisle stable, tack & storage room plus huge workshop & guest house. Pristine condition. Additional land available $2,495,000

An extraordinary historic farm on 24+ acres with two main residences and a tenant house/guest house, amidst towering trees, stone walls, brillant gardens and a spring fed pond. The two stables are stunning and include a total of 20 stalls with huge lofts, opening to paddocks and overlooking the pond. English gardens, picket fences, a paneled office, all in pristine condition and absolutely $2,350,000 charming.

locust grove

atoka chase

fox lair

Fabulous 250 acre farm including a stone main residence meticulously updated and restored, charming 1 bedroom Log Guest Cabin with kitchen and bath and separate Log Cabin Studio/Office. Center-aisle 4 stall stable with huge storage area. Gorgeous views, pond, lush pastures and woodlands. Private and protected conservation area; may be divided into 2 parcels.

Surrounded by 1000 acres in easement. $2,175,000

Stunning 5 Bedroom Cape on 10 gorgeous acres. Wonderful floorplan, sun filled rooms, high ceilings & hardwood floors. Living & dining rooms open to fabulous gardens, pool & terrace.

Master suite with sitting room, gourmet country kitchen opens to breakfast & family rooms. 2nd level has 3 bedrooms and 2 Baths; Separate Office/Guest Suite over 3 car garage. $1,995,000

elton farm

catoctin creek

Charming 4 Bedroom 3.5 Bath, stone & stucco residence on 12+ acres, completely remodeled with the finest craftmanship, in a secluded storybook setting. Surrounded by hundreds of acres in easement, with towering trees and gorgeous landscaping, Dependencies include a beautiful guest house, a carriage house with studio apartment above, a green house, spa, and run in shed in lush paddocks

$1,950,000

buck spring

Stunning 18 room brick colonial beautifully sited on 13+ acres overlooking a spring fed pond and rolling countryside, Over 9,000 square feet of spectacular living space with high ceilings, gleaming wood floors, and 3 Fireplaces, Home Theatre, Mirrored Fitness Room, Gorgeous Paneled Library, Gourmet Country Kitchen, Fabulous Master Suite, Recreation Room with bar, Absolutely every amenity in this exquisite residence! $1,550,000

Beautiful custom Colonial, built with handsome Flemish bond style brick, encompasses over 11.5 acres just 10 minutes from historic Miiddleburg. Ideally located in the Piedmont Hunt Territory, this home boasts over 4,500 sq.ft. of spectacular living space with hardwood floors, 4 fireplaces, 10 ft. ceilings, library with custom bookshelves. Attached 3 bay garage. Land is perfect for horses or pool. $1,295,000

b&b-Winery-breWery

lomar farm

middleburg house

pantherskin

A beautiful 10 acre historic farm circa 1787, ideally located on the DC Wine Trail, offers fabulous opportunity as a winery, B&B,or farm based brewery. Gorgeous site at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Gracious Manor Home, 5 bedrooms, charming 2 bedroom Guest House, Log Cabin, 3 Bay Garage with wonderful Recreation Room.

All overlook a pictuesque stocked pond & $1,235,000 beautiful views!

Beautifully sited on the crest of Pickett Mountain with gorgeous mountain views.

Features a charming antique residence on over 29 acres of manicured lawns and lush pastures. Recent upgrades include Anderson windows, newer heating and cooling, new kitchen, new master bath and renovated pool.

Brillant gardens surround the office/studio, stone garden shed and pool house with $999,500 kitchen & changing room.

Stunning antique colonial, circa 1790, on beautifully landscaped grounds in historic village of Middleburg. Approx. 4400 sq.ft. of elegant living space with hardwood floors, antique fireplaces,charming sun filled rooms all in excellent condition! French doors lead to flagstone terraces. Separate 1 BR apt.

Commercial zoning allows multiple uses for this fabulous property. $995,000

Charming 9 room Cape Cod on a gorgeous 10 acre parcel with privacy and seclusion in an idyllic setting. Hardwood floors, main floor Master with vaulted ceilings, fabulous Family/Sun room with walls of windows overlooking the pool and decks, 2 fireplaces, gazebo, pool house and brilliant gardens. Library with custom bookcases, formal living and dining rooms, ideal for $915,000 gracious entertaining!

March 2015

THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE A STAUNCH ADVOCATE OF LAND EASEMENTS LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1967

middleburg, virginia 20118 (540) 687-6500 www.thomas-talbot.com

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Charming historic Colonial, circa 1870 sBeautifully updated and in pristine condition s 21+ rolling acres sTowering trees, lush board fenced pastures and views of the Blue Ridge sNew gourmet Kitchen, 3.5 modern baths, 6 fireplaces, antique wood floors sIdeal for horses - stable & run-ins. $1,795,000

www.middleburglife.net

paeonian springs ~ Magnificent 19 room country estate on over 18 acres with breathtaking mountain views. Custom built in 2003 with extraordinary quality & design, this 3 level Colonial features 5 bedrooms, 6 baths and 3 half baths, over 11,000 sq. ft. of spectacular living space. Beautifully decorated and impeccably maintained, features include stone fireplaces, gleaming cherry & limestone floors, Media room, fabulous Gourmet Kitchen plus lower level walkout, ideal for in-law or aux pair apartment. Barn ideal for horses! $1,899,000

brian mgowan

M i d d l e b u r g L i f e

(540) 687-5523

Jim mcgowan

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Keeping The Tradition Alive

W

endy and Mike Smith recently held a reception for the Upperville Horse

M i d d l e b u r g

Show at their Wellington, Florida home, Smith Stables. The show, which dates to 1853, overflows with history and is set to take place this year from June 1-7. Smith, who is president of the show, wanted to let those gathered

know that a $1million dollar renovation has taken place at the stately grounds with new footing, new rings and much more.

L i f e

The event was held in an

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expansive white tent, with a massive white stallion sculpture standing behind a four-sided bar, its head decorated with a lampshade and lights. The drinks Elizabeth Wiley, Lillibet Motion and Sloane Coles

were flowing but we were

Joe Fargis and Anne Cahill

so excited to see so many old horse show buddies and Middleburg friends

Gavin and Alden Moylan

nibbles were endless…sliders, fries and mini fajitas.

Finally, Smith concluded: “We’re going to keep the tradition alive.”

Haley, Beverly, Nancy and Graham Alcock

Jeff Blue and Leslie Clark

John Coles and Jim Thompson

Henri and Katie Prudent with Amy Nunnally

Ramiro Quintana

The white stallion

April, 2013

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www.middleburglife.net

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Tom Wiseman with son, William

www.middleburglife.net

March 2015

we forgot to partake. The

Wendy and Mike Smith

Vicki Van Metre and Penny Denegre

Roy Perry and Barbara Roux

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Dakota

Faraway Farm

Upperville, Virginia • $4,900,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $4,300,000

Middleburg Area • $3,350,000

Stone manor house in spectacular setting • 86.81 acres • Highly protected area in prime Piedmont Hunt • Gourmet kitchen • Wonderful detail throughout • 5 BR • 5 BA • 3 half BA • 3 fireplaces, classic pine paneled library • Tenant house • Stable • Riding ring • Heated saltwater pool • Pergola • Full house generator

87 acres • Fieldstone and stucco house featuring a reclaimedtimber barn transformed into an intimate family room overlooking two expansive ponds • Custom kitchen, antique beams, lovely first floor master suite, 4 bedrooms • Media room, bar, exercise facility, generous storage • 3-car garage, in-law suite, 3-stall barn, generator

Solid stone home with copper roof on 70 acres • Original portions dating from the 1700’s • First floor bedroom & 3 additional suites • Original floors • 8 fireplaces • Formal living room • Gourmet kitchen • 2 ponds • Mountain views • Stone walls • Mature gardens • Pool • Primitive log cabin • Piedmont Hunt

Paul MacMahon

(703) 609-1905

Helen MacMahon

(540) 454-1930

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930 Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905 Ann MacMahon (540) 687-5588

Trough Hill Farm

Providence Farm

The Haven

Middleburg, Virginia • $2,750,000

Bluemont, Virginia • $2,650,000

The Plains, Virginia • $2,495,000

A pastoral 5 bedroom c. 1830 farmhouse and a grand stone pavilion • Elegant but unfussy • 103 acres of open farmland • The pavilion serves as a pool house, greenhouse, banquet room, and guest quarters • Great location

42 acre equestrian property in Piedmont Hunt • Lovely 5,000 sf home with 1st floor master suite • Horse facilities include indoor (150' x 75') and outdoor (200' x 100') arenas • 10 stall stable with large apartment • 8 more stalls in shed row • 6 paddocks • Cross country course & 9,800 sf heated Morton Building

Fabulous equestrian property • High efficiency low maintenance home with state of the art geothermal and solar systems • Stone fireplaces, pool, cabana • Great kitchen and bathrooms • Huge front porch overlooking pond • 7 stall stable with apartment • Euro felt arena • 4 paddocks and prime ride out location

Helen MacMahon

Helen MacMahon

Ann MacMahon Paul MacMahon

(540) 687-5588 (703) 609-1905

(540) 454-1930

(540) 454-1930

Echo Hill

Stonewood

Delaplane, Virginia • $1,850,000

The Plains, Virginia • $1,699,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $970,000

78-acre farm in sought after Fauquier County • One-of-a-kind pastoral hill-top setting • Dramatic private postcard valley views of Cobbler Mountains • 4 bedroom home • Pool • Poolhouse • Guest/tenant cottage and pond • Ideal for horses, cattle, hay, row crops, vineyards • Additional land available

Stone English country home in top location between Middleburg & The Plains on 13 acres • Large boxwoods & classically planted gardens • 4 BR home with new kitchen & main level master suite • Hardwood floors, built-in book cases, fireplaces & bright open family room • Bluestone terrace overlooks new pool & entertaining area • Separate guest cottage/pool house & garage • Whole-house generator

Charming stucco, log and frame home • 10 acres • 3-4 bedrooms • 3 1/2 baths • 2 fireplaces (one in the kitchen with antique brick floor) • Beautiful reclaimed pine flooring • Bright and sunny family room opens to bluestone terrace • Master bedroom opens to private balcony • 2 car garage • 4 stall barn with tack room with 2 paddocks • 2 recorded lots

Helen MacMahon

(540) 454-1930

Helen MacMahon

Paul MacMahon

(703) 609-1905

(540) 454-1930

Julep Chase

Middleburg, Virginia • $825,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $650,000

Rectortown, Virginia • $499,000

Classic Virginia colonial • Circa 1926 • Stone and frame construction • 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths • Hardwood floors • High ceilings • Screened side porch on .65 acre in town • 2-car garage with apartment • Beautiful gardens and rear terrace

Classic old Middleburg fixture • Zoned C-2 which allows retail, restaurant or personal services • Lovely large front porch and old stone walls - nice visibility one block south of the main street • Extensive plantings, room for expansion and full of charm • Approximately 2,300 sf building on .11 acre lot • Front portion dates from 1870's

Circa pre-1800 • One of the oldest homes in historic Rectortown • 2 bedroom • 1 bath • Dining room, sitting room & spacious library with built-in book shelves • Viking 6 burner stove & Sub-zero Refrigerator • Improvements include house-sized wood-working shop with Cyclone system • Two generators • 1.5 acres • Priced to sell

Helen MacMahon

Alix Coolidge

Paul MacMahon

(703) 609-1905

info@sheridanmacmahon.com www.sheridanmacmahon.com

(540) 454-1930

(703) 625-1724

110 East Washington Street P.O. Box 1380 Middleburg, Virginia 20118 (540) 687-5588

March 2015

The Corner Garden Building

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Washington Street

www.middleburglife.net

Pohick Farm

M i d d l e b u r g L i f e

Oakfield

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REGISTER NOW 540-454-6304

We Love Our Trees!

• Trees are available from 6 ft. in height • Our Trees are healthy, high quality & Virginia grown • Tree spade installation & relocation services are available • Stump grinding • Nursery & greenhouse tours by appointment • Landscaping services • Quality tested orchard/timothy mixed hay available in square & round bales

WAGENBURG FARM 23558 Parsons Road, Middleburg, VA 20117 703-727-8132 or 571-246-1391

www.wagenburgfarm.net

Call for your personal appointment today!

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Province Blue

briarwood

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March 2015

Buh-bye Winter...Spring is HERE!

Sydney and Jack Bowers: A Hill School Love Affair

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

N

Not long after they married, Jack and Sydney Bowers drew up a list of places they’d eventually like to live. They wanted access to a major city, a location where they could teach in an independent school, and a community conducive to raising a family.

Boston, Denver and Washington, D.C. made the initial cut, but the final decision came in 1976, not long after they were taken on a driving tour of Middleburg. Plainly put, they were enchanted by what they saw.

The Bowers met at Bethany College in Wheeling, West Virginia, and after graduation, Syd began teaching at Wheeling Country Day. Jack went into the business world and also helped Syd coach. “I loved it,” he said. “I also watched Syd get up every morning and say ‘I can’t wait to see the kids.’”

Still, after three years in Wheeling, they both thought it was time to move on. While attending a teaching job fair, they first learned about Hill. Syd interviewed and was offered a contract to become Hill’s athletic director and a coach. A year later, after completing his teaching credential course work, Jack was hired to be a fifth grade homeroom teacher and to teach math.

Sydney Bowers is now the longest tenured teacher at Hill, with Jack a close second. “ I’m one year behind and I can’t catch her,” he said. “She’s going to be the Cal Ripken Jr. of Hill. This is my 37th year, and her 38th.”

Sydney has coached all Hill sports at some time, including her specialty—field hockey.

She also became a widely-respected referee in the sport. But her most important impact has been among the generations of students she guided along the way.

“I had her as a teacher and a coach,” said Hill alumna Cricket Bedford, who played field hockey at UVa.. “She was so encouraging… and she’s such a huge part of my life, as much as Jack was for my brother Dean. We were children of divorce, and we could always go to Jack and Syd for anything. They were just so normal.”

Bedford now helps Syd coach the Hill field hockey team and two years ago, nominated her for National Junior Field Hockey Coach of the Year. Syd won that 2012 award from the

sport’s national governing body and was honored at ceremonies in Virginia Beach.

“No one deserved it more than Syd,” said Bedford, who was there. “She’s just been an amazing woman in my life.”

Jack Bowers, of course, would say the same about his wife and the mother of their two adult children, John and Lizzie, both Hill graduates. In addition to his classroom duties, he’s also worked for Syd as a coach, mainly in soccer and lacrosse, though he said their styles on the sidelines are totally different.

“We’ve never coached the same team together,” Jack said. “We could not be on the same field. Syd has a clipboard, and she knows to the minute when a player should go in. I have a game plan. I watch what’s going on and I’m constantly talking…in something of a high-pitched voice. She’s a little more reserved.”

Syd also helped write the school’s guiding philosophy and started its mentoring program, with upper school students helping lower school students.

“One of the school’s best qualities is the commitment and passion that all the teachers and administrators have to the growth of every child,” she said. “The level of trust and goodwill is outstanding. We collaborate in a way that I have never observed in any other school, and we’re able to develop programs beneficial for all the students.”

Every Hill child is involved in sports, and Bowers admitted “I love when they go and play team sports in high school and college. It gives them a friend group wherever they go, and that’s so important.”

Despite their long tenure, she and her husband don’t even think about stopping any time soon.

“There are always hard days,” Jack said, “but every day there’s something new. The children are still willing and wanting to learn. And when you find the right button to push, it is very gratifying.”

Sydney Bowers, of course, being there one year longer than her husband, gets to have the final word.

“People ask me all the time how long I’m going to continue,”,” she said. “I can still see another decade. I don’t see retirement as something I want to do any time soon.”

At Hill, that’s worth celebrating. Twice. n

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ongtime Middleburg resident Ed Wright has collected a number of old photographs from the town and surrounding areas, many of them supplied by Jim Poston. Every month, Wright, a retired executive after many years at the Middleburg Bank, takes readers down memory lane with recollections of what used to be.

Photo by Leonard Shaprio

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PET PORTRAITS

804-698-7527, P.O. Box 397, Richmond, VA 23218 or you can email me at jillvogel@senate27.com.

Also, please visit our website at www.senatorjillvogel.com.

March 2015

THISTLE

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helped establish the health center as I recall,” she said. “And the girls from the school would go over there as part of their community service. They would go and help any way they could. They’d take care of the babies, give them baths and things like that. I also remember there was a gentleman named Robert Courtesy Photo who lived in Windy Hill who took care The health center staff included (l-r) Mabel Monroe, Dr. of the place. He wore a white coat and he James W. Gibson, Sadie Reed, Virginia Duffy, Dr. Robert would always greet you at the door. He McConnell and Virginia Williams worked there for many years, and he kept that place spotless.” or many years, the space now occupied The health center also had its own

by Dr. Richard Falkenstein was known ambulance, and I was asked to drive it over to as the Loudoun Fauquier Health Center the Middleburg Spring Races at Glenwood Park. and Foxcroft Social Service. That’s where Miss Williams would go with me, and after I got just about everyone in town went for married, my wife, Virginia Bryan, would join us, anything medical, and for some local residents, to too. Dr. and Mrs. Gibson would always be there in have a baby right in the heart of Middleburg. case something happened to the riders. The health There were Dr. James W. Gibson and Dr. center had a little kitchen and Miss Williams often Robert McConnell, both general practitioners, made lunch for everyone on the staff during the and their staff included Mabel Monroe, Sadie week. And she’d always make lunch for all of us at Reed, Virginia Duffy and Virginia Williams, all the races. pictured above.

If someone was really hurt and needed to go

They were all good, caring people and highly to the hospital, Middleburg Fire and Rescue would respected in the community. They were the only handle that. But we always had our ambulance two doctors in town back then. And they had a out on the course near the finish line, just in case. birthing room in the building, where Miss Wil- I don’t remember having any major problems liams and Miss Duffy would assist the doctors. during the times I drove the ambulance. I do

Jane Lockhart, who began working at Fox- remember a huge pileup not far from the finish croft in 1966 and grew up in a house right across when a whole bunch of horses and riders went the street from the health center, still recalls the down, but noone—horses or riders—was hurt that school’s connection to the operation. badly. And eventually they just ended up canceling

“Miss Charlotte (Noland, Foxcroft’s founder) the race. n

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Legislative Update

Hundreds of bills affecting our district have moved through the legislature each day since the beginning of session. Tuesday, February 10th was the intense “crossover” day. It represents the midway point of the legislative session and midnight deadline for all successful Senate bills to be sent to the House. The House has the same deadline by which to complete their bills and transmit their successful legislation to the Senate. A total of 2,468 bills and resolutions were introduced this year and at crossover, the House had passed 773 measures and the Senate had passed 715.

The Senate passed a limit on the use of drones; restriction on the use of seclusion/restraint in public schools; mandatory felonies for sex trafficking; revisions to transportation law to allow Uber and Lyft in Virginia; change in drug rules for lethalinjection executions; overhaul of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; and requirements for runoff elections in statewide races where candidates win with less than a majority. The Senate also passed legislation to add nine misdemeanors to the list of convictions for which offenders must submit a DNA sample to the state databank. The databank has lead to the arrest of violent offenders and is an important tool for law enforcement.

Several bills stand out because of the emotional testimony they generated.

Families petitioned for day care regulations in response to the death of their children.

Parents testified in support of medical marijuana to treat certain debilitating epilepsy.

Advocates promoted immunity from prosecution for drug users who report an overdose. A mother testified that her son died of an overdose while bystanders who feared arrest did nothing. All are bills I supported.

I am pleased that almost all of my bills passed the Senate. One of the most significant establishes a non-profit organization representing Virginia horsemen. It implements a framework to re-establish the racing industry following Colonial Downs’ decision to turn in their license, shutting down racing in the state. I added a clause to allow it to take effect as soon as the Governor signed it, which would put many Virginians back to work immediately. Unfortunately, at the last minute, a conservative group mischaracterized it as an expansion of gambling. We lost votes and the opportunity for immediate implementation. That is regrettable since there is actually no expansion of gambling in the bill and no change to current law limiting the industry.

A number of health related bills that I introduced passed. They include a bill to allow employees of local school divisions to participate in the state health plan, a bill to add meningitis to the schedule of childhood inoculations and a bill to help prosecute Medicaid fraud through change in venue provisions.

I introduced a series of election bills which also passed. They establish a pilot program for vote centers; move the date of the June primary; revise duties of registrars and electoral boards; clarify rules to fill vacancies in Constitutional offices; revise rules for cancellation of voter registration; amend rules related to handheld wireless devices at the polls and establish a bi-partisan redistricting commission. My bill re-establishing the Service and Volunteerism Advisory Board, which brings millions of dollars in grant money to Virginia and my bill adding resources for the cyber accelerator program also passed.

Two bills that I introduced still face uncertainty. The first would facilitate teacher training to identify dyslexia and other reading issues. Superintendents, teachers and hundreds of parents support the bill and believe that earlier identification of dyslexia will give otherwise bright children the opportunity to succeed in school. The second requires expanded insurance coverage for autism. That bill has been replaced with a House version that may or may not pass.

My campus safety bill, study of local land use assessment on funding for public schools and bill changing the mandatory judicial retirement age from 70 to 73 also passed and now await action in the House. A bill I submitted affecting process for collecting assessments in community development authorities also passed the Senate.

If it passes the House it will preserve hundreds of millions in community development projects for which bonds have been issued and the burden removed from taxpayers. The Senate also passed a bill that I introduced to prohibit horse tripping or lassoing of a horse’s legs in a rodeo.

My vote for a bill to prohibit discrimination in state hiring drew statewide attention. I have cast that vote in previous years to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation among other things. Frankly, I believe discrimination by the state for any reason is indefensible. The Chamber of Commerce, the technology industry and other groups in my district urged passage of the bill arguing that current law creates barriers for business expansion, government contracting and state universities. The bill has no affect on private employers.

Finally, our biggest achievement came in passage of the Senate budget. I will elaborate further on that process in the next update. As always, I take your opinions seriously and hope that you will contact our office if you have questions or concerns. I can be reached during the General Assembly session at

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Late 16th C. Bronze Figure After the Model by Alessandro Vittoria

George Washington and Thomas Jefferson Signed Ship Document Dated December 12, 1793

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mong the dogs kept by Lord Byron (1788-1824), the most extravagant and notorious of the English romantic poets, was Boatswain, his Newfoundland.

He also kept another Newfoundland, Thunder; a mastiff and numerous other dogs and beasts - among them a tame bear. When Byron attended Cambridge, dogs had been prohibited.

But, as bears were not specifically banned, Byron brought his along with him.

The dogs remained at Newstead Abbey, the family estate near Nottingham, where they had free range over the countryside, their ownership proclaimed by their collars. Boatswain’s collar was a massive brass band with a turned-out, jaggedtoothed edge. The collar is now on display at the Museum at Newstead Abbey, but its dents and scratches record a darker history than what we today expect from the eccentric aristocracy in bucolic surroundings.

While it is instinctive to envision a lovely image of Boatswain roaming the countryside, in actuality he terrorized everyone. Upon Byron’s returns from Cambridge, he would use Boatswain in bear baiting against his pet bear. Byron also engaged his dog in fights against other dogs.

In one such fight in 1808, Boatswain contracted rabies and died. He was buried in a monumental vault in a prominent location on the lawn at Newstead Abbey.

It is believed that Byron intended to eventually be buried alongside his favorite dog, but that was not to be. He fled England in 1816 and died in Greece, where he had become a national hero. Byron’s embalmed body (the Greeks may have kept his heart) was returned to England and refused burial at Westminster Abbey. His wish to be with Boatswain would still not be realized as his remains were laid to rest at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Nottinghamshire.

Regimental dogs, or mascots, were greatly beloved by the troops who marched or rode into battle over the centuries. Their companionship, acts of bravery and loyalty engendered much affection. Nearly every type of dog has played this role, their collars ranging from simple to ornate.

It was not unusual for a collar to be engraved with the name of the regiment to which the dog belonged, sometimes including metal plaques

engraved with the various battles in which the dog had been present - another indication of a proud connection in a shared experience.

One of the endearing images in canine portraiture is that of a toy dog with a ribbon tied in a bow around its neck, rather than a collar. A bizarre interpretation of this occurred during the reign of King Henri III of France (1551-1589).

He began wearing a large ribbon tied in a bow around his neck. Attached to the ribbon was a small jewel encrusted basket holding one of his favorite lapdogs. Needless to say it was quickly adopted by the inner circle of his court.

Jumping into the middle of the next century, but still in France, Louis XIV (1638-1715) was being compelled to bid adieu to one of his first loves, Marie Mancini. She was one of the seven nieces of Cardinal Mazarin, an Italian who served as Chief Minister of France. Mazarin brought the “Mazarinettes,” as they were called, to Paris in order to surround himself with people from his own country.

Marie was charming, witty, slim and exotic.

She was an accomplished equestrienne and an expert dancer. Louis also loved to dance and was likewise an expert. He was 20 and she 19, when he decided they should marry. However, there were too many social levels separating them, and the machinations to prevent their union were soon well in place.

When they spoke to each other for the last time in 1659, she reportedly said, “You love me, you are the King and I go.”

As a parting gift, Louis presented Marie with a string of pearls that had belonged to Queen Henrietta Maria. Louis also gave her a much more personal gift: a spaniel puppy wearing a silver collar engraved with the words “I belong to Marie Mancini.” The collar announced that Marie Mancini was the owner of the dog.

But was Louis also saying that he, too, belonged to Marie? The customs of the time owned Louis, but clearly Marie Mancini had possessed him.

In the seemingly simple, yet, in reality, somewhat complex relationship between humans and dogs, people own their dogs. They feed, house and water them and pay the vet bills. But who, or what, loves and possesses whom? n

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THEN&THERE

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The Orange County Hounds Invites You To

The Running of of The Forty-Forth Forty-Third Running

The Orange County Hounds Point-to-Point

www.middleburglife.net

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M A pa rr icl h, 22 00 11 35

at Mrs. Magalen O. Bryant’s Locust Hill Farm Middleburg, Virginia

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Ann Northrup and Laurie Maggiano

Bailey Davis

Candlelight Concert Photos by Sophie Scheps

From Rt. 50 West of Middleburg, take Rt. 709 South for one mile to the course on the right. From Rt. 17, take Rt. 709 North for eight miles to the course on the left.

Sunday, March March 29, 30, 2014 Sunday, 2015 First Race 1:00 PM Race Secretary Pippy McCormick 540-687-5552

Caleb Johnson, Tara Bleneta and Gertraud Hechl

Michael Olding and Holli Thompson

    —   —   —    

Heather Ankerbrand and Steven Cooksey

New Orchestra of Washington

Martha Cotter and Claude Schoch

Tony Sirianni and Nic Jahnke

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 

 -- Maureen Murphy and Lennart Lundh

&THAT

Photo by Douglas Lees

EVENTING & OPEN SPACE EVENT

EAT CAKE!

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big congrats and shout out to Lydia Frey of Hume as winner of the Best Junior Handler title at this year’s Westminster Kennel Club show at Madison Square Garden. The 2012 Hill School grad beat 87 other young handlers after qualifying with the required seven Best Junior Handler awards (she acutally won 13). The 16-year-old is the daughter of show jumping rider Kim Prince and horseman Russell Frey, a well-known trainer/ judge based in Chicago. Her Bedlington Terrier is known as “Tony,” a send up in honor of Marie Antoinette, in honor of his show name, Grand Champion Lamv “Let Them Eat Cake.’

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oe Dempsey, Rob Banner, Nate Chambers and Kristina Higgins at the Mosby Heritage Area Association’s “The Future of Eventing and the Preservation of Open Space” held recently at the Englehard Gymnasium, Foxcroft School.

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andy Johnson of Gordonsdale Farm near Berryville and MHAA Event Chair Wendy Bebie also participated in the Eventing and open space event.

Photo by Douglas Lees

RECENTLY ELECTED…

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March 2015

orseman Don Yovanovich has recently been elected to the Board of Directors of The Federation Internationale des Gentlemen Riders et des Cavalieres (Fegentri) elected in Oslo. The 60th Annual General Assembly met in Norway and represents a membership of 25 different nations with over 70 delegates . Yovanovich, a trainer and race rider, was the representative from the Amateur Riders Club of America (ARCA) and is the first American to be elected to the Board of Fegentri. Yovanovich has advocated for, guided and supported amateur riders in America for more than a decade. He is shown here (far right) with riders France Jean De Mieulle, Italy Fabrizio Perego, Great Britain Harry Bannister, France Marie Rollando, Germany Vinzenz Schiergen, Germany Marc Timpelan, United States Chris Ortiz.

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t a recent Pet Therapy Luncheon at Fauquier Hospital: Carolyn Strong, Nancy Noack, Charlotte Flohr, Kaye Nazarian, Pat Morris, Joanne Pinette, Lisa Fox, Bettyann Senf, Kathyrn Gilman, Sandy Hamilton, Kathy McCoubrey, Margaret Clarke, Pat Eicher, Mary Tudor, Carole Bouthilet.

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riends of the late local horseman Steve Timko are gathering funds for The Steve Timko Perpetual Trophy to be awarded at the Upperville Colt and Horse Show, June 1-7 for the Thoroughbred Yearling Colt class. If there are sufficient funds, the group would like to do a trophy and engraving, a page in the UCHS program with a photo of Steve and a list of donors. Donate a tree with brass plaque: Steve Timko - horseman and friend— and possibly make a donation to the SPCA ( www.fauquierspca.com) as a sponsor of the beer tent, Steve’s favorite spot on the show grounds. If you’re interested and want to be a part of this donation, please send a check to Helen Wiley, P.O. Box 1141, Middleburg, Virginia, 20118.

Kudos to Kitty---The Fauquier Board of Supervisors recently issued a proclamation, read by Supervisor Peter Schwartz, honoring Kitty P. Smith at their February meeting.

And it seems as if someone at CNN has discovered Middleburg, which was recently named one of the ten most romantic spots in the world. Other destinations listed included : Udaipur (India), Waiheke Island (New Zealand), Cafayate (Argentina), Hoi An (Vietnam), Quirimbas Islands (Mozambique), Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Peter Island (British Virgin Islands), Vernazza (Italy) and Galle (Sri Lanka). The report noted: “It’s the kind of place where fox hunters rub shoulders with equestrians and couples meander from heritage B&Bs along shop-lined streets into a bucolic countryside of white picket fences, undulating vines and barn-chic wineries.”

In Warrenton, Highland School’s Key Club has been awarded a grant of $1,000 by the Forward Turn program to support the implementation of a new long-term service project conducting outreach to low income families with insecure housing, living in local low-rent motels. Volunteers will provide some basic supplies like paper products, easy prep food, baby care supplies, and toiletries. The Dignity Project, named to highlight the foundational principle highlighted in Highland’s Social Justice elective, will emphasize relationship-building and understanding as the most meaningful outcomes that can develop from youth and residents interacting while supplies that meet basic needs are distributed.

Highland is partnering with Teens Opposing Poverty, a non-profit based in Berryville, that has been working with student groups across Virginia and D.C. for 27 years to conduct outreach in their local communities.

The Bethel United Methodist Church youth group is currently conducting a monthly outreach at one of Warrenton’s low rent motels.

Forward Turn is funded by the S. Murray and Mary H.C. Rust Student Philanthropy Project of the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties.

And from Boyce, Middleburg Life has learned that The Powhatan School is pleased to announce that John M. Barber, a nationally and internationally acclaimed American artist, will be the Artist in Residence, working with their young artists on March 10th, 11th and 31st. Over his career spanning three decades, Barber has painted commissioned works of art for individuals the likes of President Ronald Reagan, Walter Cronkite and Bunny Mellon.

A Fellow of the American Society of Marine Artists, Barber has painted the official paintings for both the World War II Memorial: ‘Tribute to a Generation’, and the White House Bicentennial Commemoration: ‘White House Sunset’ in Washington DC, and his artwork hangs in embassies around the world as a participant in the Department of State American Artists program.

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on?

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tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year of year again, providing the snow melts.

That would be the 44th running of the Orange County Hounds point-to-point, Sunday, March 29, at Locust Hill Farm in Middleburg.

The Middleburg Library is accepting appli-

March 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ www.middleburglife.net

Daniels Fellows to allow the public to learn about new discoveries and research by the Fellows.

The next lecture will be April 18 by Corey Piper, the curatorial assistant for the Mellon Collection.

Admission is free for NSLM members and $5 for non-members. The events are open to the public.

The Mosby Heritage Area Association has a book talk by author Rachel Y. Thompson, entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marshall: A Statesman Shaped in the Crucible of War.â&#x20AC;? on Sunday, March 15, at 2 p.m. at Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Delight, 36276 Mountville Road in Middleburg. Tickets are $25 for MHAA members and $30 for non-members. Contact www. mosbyheritagearea.org or 540-687-6681.

The inaugural performance of the Middleburg Concert Series will be held Sunday, March 22, at 4 p.m. at the Middleburg United Methodist Church. The spring concert will be a journey through chamber music featuring internationally recognized artists including the Vitali String Quartet. Admission will be by free will offering. For information, contact Alan Saucedo, alansa99 @yahoo.com or call 540-303-7127.

Innovative Irish fiddler Martin Hayes and American guitarist Dennis Cahill are coming to Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains for a 7:30 p.m. concert on Sunday, March 22.

The Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pay It Forwardâ&#x20AC;? casino night that includes dinner and a silent auction at Salamander Resort & Spa March 7 from 7 to 11 p.m. Beneficiaries will include local high school students seeking scholarships for STEM studies, a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s science center at Fair Oaks Mall and homeless children in Northern Virginia. Tick-ets are $125 per person. Contact dulleschamber.org for more information.

Highland School will hold an open house on Sunday, March 8 at 1 p.m. Call Donna Tomlinson at 540-878-2740 or sign up online at highlandschool.org/openhouse.

Middleburg Academy Head of School Colley Bell is hosting parent coffees in March.

These are informal, open forums providing an opportunity to connect with Bell and parents of students in the same grade. Parents of freshmen

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will meet on March 5 and parents of seniors on March 12. All coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Mary House.

Buchanan Hall will be the site for a lecture on early spring care for great summer lawns on Monday, March 9 from 7-8:30 p.m. Dr. Mike Goatley, a professor and turf grass specialist from Virginia Tech, will be speaking on what can be done in the early spring to get your lawn ready for the summer growing season.

On Saturday, March 14, Buchanan Hall also will host an equine forage conference from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Equine nutrition and forage/crop specialists are on the program. n

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Middleburg Academy Head of School, Colley Bell is hosting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parent Coffeesâ&#x20AC;? for the next few weeks on campus at Mary House. These are informal, open forums with the Head of School, Colley Bell. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great opportunity to connect with him and with other parents in your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grade. The upcoming meetings will be held on Thursday, March 5 for parents of freshmen and Thursday, March 12 for parents of seniors. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 a.m.9:30 a.m. for more information call 540-687-5581.

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cations for its 2015 College Book Scholarship.

The winning candidate will receive $1,000 for college textbooks. The scholarship recognizes ac-ademic achievement, community service and love of literature. The deadline is April 8, 2015.

Applicants must be high school seniors, hold a library card and reside in one of the following zip codes: 20117 or 20118 (Middleburg); 20115 or 20116 (Marshall); 20144 (Delaplane); 20198 (The Plains); 20105 (Aldie); 20184 or 20185 (Upperville); 20131 (Philomont); 20135 (Bluemont); 20130 (Paris).

Applications are available at the Middleburg Library, through guidance counselors at local public and private high schools and online at www.library.loudoun.gov.

The Loudoun County library is holding its second annual adult poetry writing contest. Entries will be accepted through April 15 and prizes will be awarded to the winners. The contest is open to ages 18 and up. For submission guidelines, go to library.loudoun.gov/rhymeon and submit your entry to rhymeon@library.loudoun. gov.

The Middleburg Community Center will be one of the main venues for Shakespeare in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burg from March 27-29, an annual festival that will include performances of Shakespeare plays by the American Shakespeare Center actors.

In addition, the festival will host workshops in stagecraft and acting, and a one act playwriting competition, with the first prize being a public reading or one act performance of the winning script. For more information, call 540-687-3448.

The Loudoun Free Clinic celebrates its 13th annual Spring Gala with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Magic of Motown,â&#x20AC;? on March 14 at 6 p.m. at the Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg. Dinner, a Motown style band, casino games, raffles and a silent auction are all included. Tickets and sponsorship oppor-tunities are available on www.loudounfreeclinic.org or call 703-779-5474.

The National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) is hosting a new monthly series of Sporting Conversations: Lectures by John H.

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M i d d l e b u r g

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ProPerties in Hunt Country HigHFieldS

11 S. madiSOn STreeT

SHadOWgaTe

One of the best views in Loudoun Cty! Custom 5,000+ Sq Ft home on 50 acres. Design is European country yet with traditional VA details.

Stucco, metal roof, fireplaces & flagstone porches.

Open Floor plan with 1st Floor Master Bedroom Suite, Chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen, sunken Living Room, Den, Sunroom, 3+ bedrooms on 2nd Flr. and full walk-out basement. Heated poll. 2-car garage with 1-bedroom apartment above. $2,799,000

COmmerCial - in heart of historic middleburg, Va.

Stone-three level, detached, mixed-use building with over 7,000 sq. ft.

Main level use: retail/restaurant/business. Upper level: 3 one bedroom apartments. English basement-lower level being converted to office space. 4 parking spaces.

Wonderful opportunity! $1,700,000

Wonderful location. One potential administrative division right. Stunning views. Route 50, east of Rokeby Road and the Upperville Horse Show Grounds. Three bedroom brick home recently painted, southern exposure. 2 bedroom guest house adjacent to a 9 stall barn. Gently rolling, mostly open 23 acres with board fenced paddocks and riding ring. $925,000

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Come enjoy your home in horse & wine country! Nestled amongst large farms, this fully renovated 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath cottage has a light filled, sunken Living Room with fireplace, hardwoods floors, rear terrace overlooking creek below, covered front porch, Gourmet eat-in Kitchen with granite, stainless appliances & bay window.

Finished basement with ceramic tile flooring, Rec. Room & Wine Cellar. Easy commute to Middleburg, Rte. 50 or I-66 $599,000

Rare opportunity to own 7.0455 acres, recorded in 2 parcels, on Western edge of historic village of Middleburg. Partially within Middleburg Town Limits & partially within Loudoun County affording flexibility of zoning & uses. The Western most parcel has approved 4-bedroom drainfield. Must walk with Agent to truly appreciate value and beauty of this land. $525,000

Single story living on 11 acres next to Marriott Ranch and minutes from Hume. Secluded 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Sears and Roebuck home with lots of charm. Separate dining room, large living room, spacious kitchen, 3 fireplaces and more. Great mountain views, multiple ponds, mature trees and plantings, bordered by Fiery Run. A great value and priced well under assessment! A must see. $395,000

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rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Cricket Bedford (540) 687-7700

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601

neW mOunTain rOad - Excellent building site on this 4.72 acre lot in an area of attractive homes. Quiet road, wooded setting, yet very close to major commuter Rt. 50 and the village of Aldie. Well is installed, drainfield site approved. $295,000

60 acres of woodland in prime Clarke County location. Enjoy close proximity to the Shenandoah River and Blue Ridge Mountains. Fronting on US Highway 50, the property extends back 2,300 ft. for maximum privacy. Great riding trails for horse owners. Easement potential. $500,000

Cary embury (540) 687-7704

riVer rOad-Beautiful open, rolling land with panoramic views of the Shenandoah River and Blue Ridge mountains with almost 700 feet of river frontage. A private retreat just 4 miles from the Route 7 bridge in Clarke County.

34.51 acres $570,000 delaPlane - Beautifully sited in the heart of the Orange County Hunt, this 48+ acre parcel is surrounded by spectacular estates & offers total privacy & seclusion. Comprised of open meadows, lush woodlands and bordered by Goose Creek. The hilltop building sites offer incredible views. Easy access to Rte 17, Rte 50 and I-66. $950,000

Super attractive Tenant house on large farm. Very private and quiet. Lovely pastoral views. Located in the Piedmont Hunt territory. Living Room with fireplace, Dining Room, Large sunny Kitchen, two Bedrooms, one Bath. All hardwood floors. Please no Pets, No smokers. twelve month rent minimum. Shown By Appointment Only. $1,500/mo

rein duPont (540) 771-7520

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

Please see over 100 of our fine estates and exclusive country properties by visiting www.THOMAS-TALBOT.com Our listings receive over 35,000 visits worldwide per month.

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March 2015

Cricket Bedford (540) 687-7700

Susie Ashcom Cricket Bedford Catherine Bernache John Coles Rein duPont Cary Embury Barrington Hall Sydney Hall Sheryl Heckler Julien Lacaze

THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE a STaunCH adVOCaTe OF land eaSemenTS land and eSTaTe agenTS SinCe 1967 Middleburg, Virginia 20118 (540) 687-6500

* Washington, Virginia 22747 (540) 675-3999

Phillip S. Thomas, Sr.

Anne V. Marstiller Brian McGowan Jim McGowan Mary Ann McGowan Rebecca Poston Emily Ristau Alex Sharp* Ashleigh Cannon Sharp* Jayme Taylor Becky Templeman