Middleburg Life November 2014

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

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Volume 32 Issue 7 • November 2014 www.middleburglife.net

in this issue:

LATEST COVERAGE of the Middleburg Film Festival

Inside: Tucker Withers is Aldie Tennis pro Matt Day Going grape at Salamander . mi di dd dl el eb bu ur gr gl il fi ef e. n. ne et t • • F Ne ob vr ue amrby e, r 2 20 01 13 4 wwwwww. m

Hill School students Riley and Emma Wick emerge triumphantly from the corn maze in The Plains

PHOTO BY CROWELL HADDEN 11

DOUBLE WOOD LN, BERRYVILLE - Majestically positioned on top of the Blue Ridge Mtns, Cassique Farm consists of 472 acres (9 parcels) that backs up to the Nat’l Forest and Appalachian Trail. 4 bdrm, 4.5 bath home w/ spectacular views, huge entertainment barn w/ 8 stalls, 2 wash bays, 8 horse pastures, 8 run-in barns, 6 wells, 4 septics, and 2 ponds. No detail left undone; meticulously designed and cared for. $10,900,000

MOUNT AIRY RD, UPPERVILLE - Extraordinary brick colonial on 50+ gorgeous acres in prestigious Greystone. Over 9000 sq. ft. of spectacular living space featuring 3 beautifully finished levels. Heated pool, tennis court and brilliant gardens overlook a picturesque pond with fabulous mtn views,in a private & secluded location. $4,300,000

Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835

Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835

Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

www.middleburglife.net

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Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

MONTANA HALL LN S, WHITE POST - Many historic features to this property - 3 buildings on VA historic registry, possibility to purchase up to 400 acres. Owner keeping remainder of property and building another home - will have separate entrance. Currently being farmed and owner will continue to do so. Low taxes. House needs some work, most of the features beautiful and charming. New furnace, 90 gal per min well, more. $3,100,000 Anne McIntosh

703-509-4499

HAPS LN, PURCELLVILLE - Turnkey equestrian facility for any equine discipline!! Complete with: state of the art 2006 28 stall double isle barn, office, kitchen, vet room, tack rooms, interlocking rubber flooring, 2 wash stalls, indoor arena, ceiling fan/stall, autowaters,1/2 mile track, 15 paddocks, pond, 2 lots consist of one 50 acres and another 3 acre lot w well and 4 bdr perc. By appt only-currently leased. $2,445,000

STONEBROOK FARM - Majestic is the only way to describe Stonebrook Farm! Main house c.1750 with Stone Addition c. 1793 and recent total renovation has all of the charm of a period home coupled with modern amenities. Property has 3 additional guest houses, fantastic horse facilities, riding arena, 8+ stall barn/living space all situated on 38 stunning acres. Terraced gardens and patios. One of a kind!! $2,297,000

LINCOLN RD, PURCELLVILLE - Rare and stunning c. 1820 stone home on 46 acres (2 lots). Combines all of the charm of a period property with all of the conveniences of a perfectly restored home. House features beautiful moldings/6 fireplaces/hardwood floors/ - Formal living & dining room/4 bedroom, 41/2 baths, gourmet eat in kitchen. Bank Barn, 3 ponds, pool and pool house, apt over 3 bay garage - totally private location. $1,899,000

Joy Thompson 540-729-3428

Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

Jane Hensley 571-550-2728

ROBIN CIR, LEESBURG - Custom-built stone, brick, and cedar estate on 3.54 acres w/ features and amenities ideal for life style full of entertaining, leisure, & enjoyment. Special features include heated indoor pool, a sports pub, a regulation racquetball court with hoop, audio/video system w/ 2 home theaters, rooftop deck, picnic pavilion w/ gas barbecue, potting shed, 2+ 2-car garages, & caretaker apartment. $1,765,000 Peter Pejacsevich Scott Buzzelli 540-270-3835 540-454-1399

BRIAR LANE, DELAPLANE - Turn-key Equestrian property on 31+ private acres, frontage on Goose Ck. Spacious 4 BR; Master suite on main level, California closet, jacuzzi, etc. Open floor plan with mahogany beamed vaulted ceilings. Gourmet kitchen with Wolf appliances, 31x16 den, double 58’ decks.

Extraordinary stable! 14~x14~ stalls, etc.,120~x240~ ring, 5 paddocks, sheds with water/elec. Great ride-out, Convenient commute. $1,725,000 Anne McIntosh

Jane Hensley 571-550-2728

703-509-4499

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COLCHESTER RD, PURCELLVILLE - Antique brick and stone set the stage for this country property on 6.5 beautiful acres with mountain views. 7 fireplaces and solid cherry floors are part of the reason this home is so special. Main house features 5 bedrooms with 3 1/2 baths, large great room with views , separate dining, lovely sunroom. Carriage house wing has two bedrooms/ large living area/kitchen area. $1,495,000

Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835

Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

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WASHINGTON ST, MIDDLEBURG - Historic charming residence located on 0.74 acres in the heart of Middleburg. Stone house, hardwood floors, 7 fireplaces with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Lovely front porch. Game room on the ground floor with fireplace and separate entrance. Beautiful gardens with large barn and garden shed. Close to shops and the many yearly Middleburg events. $1,375,000 Bundles Murdock

540-454-3499

HUME AREA - Fabulous Post and Beam home using reclaimed heart pine in a private setting on 50 acres over looking 5 acre lake and Cobbler Mountain in heart of Northern Fauquier’s wine country. Second pond stream , barn and fenced. Open floor plan,gleaming pine floors, gourmet kitchen, 3 fireplaces, great deck with covered area. Detached 2 car garage. Two story windows in Fam Rm w, stone chimney. $1,100,000 Rocky Westfall 540-219-2633

KENNEL RD, BOYCE - Charming 6 bdrm/4 full bath house on ten acres in the heart of Blue Ridge Hunt Country. Features include master on main level, open kitchen, sun room w/ stone fireplace, finished basement w/ bedroom/full bath, library, and more. Other structures on property include 2, 2-car garages, 2 barns, pool, potting shed, dog kennel, mature landscaping, stone work, flagstone patio. Add’l 22 acres available. $1,050,000

Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499

Moore, Clemens & Co

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Savings & Solutions with 105 years of Insurance Service

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Middleburg Tennis Club Pro Matt Day Nets Great Results

Middleburg

Leesburg

C. Fred Kohler 540 687 6316

Insurance service at the ready when you call

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Photo by Leonard Shapiro

Middleburg Tennis Club professional Matt Day

By Leonard Shapiro Middleburg Life

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22139 Middleburg Life 4th Page.ai

Mortgage & Commercial Loan Company

Grant Wetmore Commercial Loan Officer NMLS#1097556

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5/30/14

8:37 AM

Talk to the Decision Makers

Gwen Miller Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS#206689

BCT Mortgage & Commercial Loan Company

The Noble House 2 West Washington St. Middleburg, Virginia

540.687.5304

Land Loans to Individuals Construction to Permanent Loans

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November 2014

Commercial Loans

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Residential Home Financing (including Large Acreage Properties)

Arch A. Moore III Chief Lending Officer NMLS#1097555

www.middleburglife.net

or Matt Day, the affable tennis professional at the Middleburg Tennis Club, it was an idyllic childhood in Decatur, Illinois. It was baseball with his pals in the park in the summer, hockey and swimming indoors in the winter.

There were public tennis courts nearby as well, and when he was ten, he took his little sister there to take advantage of free lessons offered to local kids. Megan wasn’t that interested, but Matt decided to take her place and was essentially hooked for life.

“I lived close by to a tennis Mecca, Fairview Park with a dozen courts,” he recalled. “All the good players would go there. I’d go over there, hang around and just play tennis. There was always a group of kids my age, and you played older kids, too. That’s how you got better.”

By his freshman year in high school, Day was playing tennis year-round. He even gave up hockey “because I knew I was going to play tennis in college and I really couldn’t do both sports.”

He certainly was prescient. He had a fine high school career, going undefeated at No. 6 singles as a freshman. As a senior, he was playing in the No. 1 position on teams that qualified for the state championships every year he was at MacArthur High. From there, it was on to a junior college program in Scottsdale, Arizona, followed by a transfer to Northern Arizona University.

Even in high school, Day was teaching youngsters how to play. At 16, he ran a Recreation Department program for juniors, driving around town in a van to give lessons and organize a league that pitted park teams against each other.

“I was the coach and the captain at each park,” he said. “It was a great experience.”

And all that experience eventually paid off with several high quality teaching positions when he moved to the Washington area, including Wsshington Golf and Country Club in Arlington and Westwood in Vienna. He’s now in his tenth year at the Middleburg Tennis Club, where he says “it’s a joy to come to work every day. The whole staff is just terrific, and

it’s the same with the members. This place is a little gem.”

Many of his students would likely say the same about Day, particularly the juniors he’s helped become fine high school and college players. That includes Amanda Rogers, the daughter of Mary Pat Guest who is now a senior and the No. 1 singles player at Syracuse, plays on the professional satellite circuit and has a national ranking.

Two other students, brothers Adam and Noah Fenton, are also playing Division I college tennis. Adam is a freshman at Elon in North Carolina and Noah is a sophomore at the University of Richmond. Both also have been playing in USTA events for years..

“Matt started working with the boys when they were around 8 and 10 years old,” said their mother, Cindy Fenton. “He helped them build a really strong foundation with technically sound strokes. During their years competing in USTA events, Matt was a constant source of support on everything from developing their games to advising on match strategy and equipment.

He’s still their go-to guy for tuneups. They’ve been extremely fortunate to have Matt in their corner.”

Day works with youngsters from kindergarten and first grade beginners all the way up to teenagers. The club has a number of summer camp sessions for all levels and he conducts clinics, group lessons and works individually with players.

“I just enjoy teaching everybody,” Day said.

“All levels, all ages. It’s really great to see the kids blossom, whether it’s going on the tour, playing in high school and college or just getting to be club players. This is a life sport, and that’s why with kids, there’s really no rush. They’ve got the rest of their lives to play tennis.”

Day said he began playing tennis the same time his father, Elliott Day, took up the game and he still treasures all the times they played together.

“Your parents are usually your best coach when you start out,” he said. “You hit with your parents, and if they can’t teach you the skills, they’ll come see me. It happens here all the time. This club has great people. Everyone is pretty low key, and they really do love their tennis.”

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Vicky Moon

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Editor and Advertising Director (540) 687-6059 vickyannmoon@aol.com

contributing WritErs

M i d d l e b u r g

Pam Mickley Albers katie barchas Wilson cindy Fenton Dulcy Hooper richard Hooper betsy burke Parker Leonard shapiro Emily tyler gracie Withers Marcia Woolman Linda young

contributing PHotogrAPHErs

Bespoke tailoring & couture for ladies & gentlemen Riding and driving apparel Day wear Evening wear Bridal and wedding attire Historical costumes

By Appointment Only 6807A Lord Fairfax Hwy •Berryville, VA 22611

ewbankclothiers.net 540 955 8525

Doug gehlsen crowell Hadden Janet Hitchen Victoria ingenito Douglas Lees tracy Meyer karen Monroe

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Libby Phillips Pinner

Middleburg’s oldest and most respected newspaper.

IncredIble:

A Middleburg Chocolate Lover’s Paradise

By Linda Young For Middleburg Life

“Y

ou deserve incredible chocolate.”

That’s the slogan Anne and Dan Brown are selling at Shenandoah Fine Chocolates, their recently opened shop on E. Washington St. And it’s the same philosophy they’ve promoted since they opened their first store in Strasberg before moving it to Winchester 13 years ago, and then adding on a restaurant—The Chocolate Bar— four years ago.

Anne said her Winchester customers were always asking them when they were going to open another shop further east—perhaps Middleburg or Leesburg. Dan, who worked at a Washington law firm and drove through Middleburg every day on his commute, one day noticed a ‘For Rent’ sign on a vacant store window. He stopped to inquire about the place, and eventually they signed a lease.

112 W. Washington st.

P.o. box 1770 Middleburg,VA 20118 (540) 687-6325 www.middleburglife.net

Photos by Leonard Shapiro

Dan and Anne Brown of Shenandoah Fine Chocolates

All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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.

www.middleburglife.net

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November 2014

What better pairing than wine and chocolate?

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It took nearly three months to make the space in Middleburg look like a place to sell chocolates. After removing flowery wallpaper and painting the walls a rich chocolate brown, it started to transform. The display cases were custom made to look like the cases in the Winchester shop. Shelves were hung and slowly a chocolate shop was created.

But what really gave the Browns this chocolate-covered idea?

Dan’s family had a fudge shop in the Midwest, and other friends had a chocolate shop.

Anne and Dan both had corporate jobs, but always in the back of their minds was an idea that eventually they’d dip into the chocolate business some how, some way. They both took leaves of absence from their respective jobs when Dan’s father took ill, and eventually resumed friendship with the people who owned the chocolate shop.

“A year later, Dan’s company decided to restructure,” Anne said. “We took that as a sign that God was kicking us in the rear end to do it now.”

And so they did. They scraped together their savings and retirement and opened their first shop, and the rest is chocolate-covered history. Dan drove to Mississippi to buy the original equipment and they both began attending chocolate shows, learning all they could about the process of making chocolate.

She said she was surprised some chocolate-

makers were actually unwilling to share their recipes. Nevertheless, through hard work, trial and error and her great passion and determination, she figured it all out and Shenandoah Fine Chocolates was up and running.

Anne makes all the chocolates at their Winchester store and restaurant using only Swiss or Belgian products. She’s an early riser and is in the kitchen by 6 each morning. Her work space has to be cool, about 65 degrees with humidity no higher than 47 percent because the chocolate will not set properly if it is too warm.

The chocolate cream recipes date back to the early 1900s and all the chocolates can be made with dark or milk chocolate. Anything with caramel is a very popular choice. Some days, coconut and coffee chocolates fly off the shelves.

There are chocolate-covered pretzels and graham crackers as well as chocolate molds in the shape of horses and cows. The artisan chocolates are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, many of them hand-painted. Ginger bark, pecan bark and bacon bark are just some of the choices.

A lavender butterfly chocolate is the perfect pairing of two fabulous items, lavender and chocolate. Customers also can create their own unique box, selecting individual pieces for a perfect gift.

Anne laughed when she told the story of an earnest young man who wanted to propose to his girlfriend with a box of chocolates. He told her he would place the ring in the box and give it to her on Christmas Eve. That morning, she received a frantic call. Could she recreate the box? His dog, a chocolate lab, don’t you know, had eaten everything, including the ring. Anne replaced the chocolate and the dog delivered the ring, several days later.

A smaller room in the Middleburg shop also contains a wide selection of wines for sale.

A very popular “Chocolate Shop Wine” is made in Walla Walla, Washington. It’s delicious on its own, but even better when poured over pound cake or ice cream.

Like so many other Middleburg shops, there’s also a dog on the premises. Peter the poodle stays quietly in the back, but Anne said she knows he’d protect her in a heartbeat.

Better yet, he doesn’t like chocolate. n

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I have diverse clientele, both in discipline and location. Currently they range from pony hunter students to all levels of jumpers. Some are local to the area while others reside out of state. all of them are very passionate about horses and it creates a great environment around the barn.

How often do you ride and what are some of the highlights of your career?

I’m so proud to have students or horses of mine win at some of the best shows in the country, including the National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky, the HITS $250K Hunter Final, the Devon Horse Show, WIHS, and Pennsylvania National Horse Show.

I also feel privileged to have judged some of the top shows in the country, including the U.S. pony Finals, the Hunter Spectacular in Palm Beach and Lake Placid.

What sets your coaching and teaching method apart from all others?

Denice Perry of Skyland Farm

I think I’m a good teacher and coach. I can also get on and school the horses and ponies and demonstrate to the students. Some people are more visual learners and demonstration is very helpful. I believe in keeping things positive for my students. Riding should be about fun and enjoying horses and the beautiful countryside, not just winning at shows. I like to tailor my lessons to each individual so they reach their personal goals. Most importantly I want them to love and appreciate the horses. They are the most important part.

In the Kitchen with Emily TylEr

I would have to say the employee stories. Some are just unbelievable. I could write quite the book after all these years.

What makes the Middleburg area attractive for your business?

In my opinion, Middleburg is the horse capital of the world. I couldn’t imagine a better location and a better group of people to share my passion with. n

At Highland, a Pre-K to Grade 12 independent day school in the heart of Warrenton, Virginia, we know that every child is unique. Our students get the tools and opportunities they need to find themselves and the world around them in a supportive, engaging, and friendly environment.

If you are looking for new challenges and opportunities, you can find yourself at Highland School. 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.

Sign up for our Open House today at

www.highlandschool.org/openhouse open.house.half.middleburg.life.indd 1

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November 2014

yourself at Highland

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Be

April, 2013

HIGHLAND SCHOOL

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LEARN MORE AT OUR OPEN HOUSE Join us for our Open House on Sunday, November 16 at 1:30pm in the Highland Center for the Arts. To register, please contact Donna Tomlinson at 540-878-2740 or online at www.highlandschool.org/openhouse.

www.middleburglife.net

AT HIGHLAND SCHOOL, YOU CAN BE AUTHENTIC.

What are some of the more unusual things that have happened to you while traveling on the circuit?

www.middleburglife.net

Middleburg Memories with Ed Wright

BOOKED UP

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Who are your clients and where do they come from?

It works out really well. Skyland Farm is so centrally located right on Zulla Road and it is a beautiful place to work. The property was once part of the historic Hickory Tree Farm. Virginia is my favorite place to live and train horses with the exception of January through March when the weather is inconsistent and can pose a challenge. Wellington showcases the best in the world throughout the winter so professionally it is my favorite place to compete and the weather is fabulous.

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It evolved by accident. I was selling real estate after graduating from college and was offered a barn to keep my horses if I took care of the landlords. There were so many stalls, I partnered with Sue Lymen. We started a training and sales business that evolved to what Skyland Farm in Middleburg is today. Sue also has her business, West Riding, that evolved out of our original partnership. In fact we still do business together to this day. It combines my love for teaching, riding and horses. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. at Skyland Farm we offer full service training for both the horse and rider at any level and we have prospective horses for sale.

You’re located next to the Middleburg Tennis Club and spend part of the year in Wellington, Florida. How do you juggle both locations?

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ell us about why you decided to get into this business?

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THe CoMMITTeD aND CoNSUMMaTe RIDINg INSTRUCToR

With Denice Perry

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Wakefield School

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For Tucker Withers, All’s Well in Aldie for a Semi-Native Son

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Join us for an Open House Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 9 a.m. Ƥ Ǥ Ȁ ǡ ȋ͘͜͝Ȍ ͚͛͝Ǧ͘͟͞​͘ ̻ Ƥ Ǥ Ǥ

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Join us during the Christmas Shop November 6th - 8th

www.middleburglife.net

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November 2014

Monday-Saturday 10-6. Sunday 1-5

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f Our trees will be

decorated f Byers Choice Dolls will be out... many fabulous new dolls & Advent Calendars f Christmas Music will fill our shop f Sample our delicious foods and Mulling Spiced cider f Ornaments galore especially our beautiful Old World glass ornaments

Relax and enjoy the beginning of the Holiday Season

The Fun Shop

117 W. WASHINGTON STREET (NEXT TO THE POST OFFICE) 540.687.6590 | 800.371.9924 | WWW.THEFUNSHOP.COM FUNSHOPINC@AOL.COM MIDDLEBURG’S DEPARTMENT STORE SINCE 1956

The Little River Inn in Aldie

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

W

hen Tucker Withers first travelled out Route 50 and through Gilbert’s Corner in 1978, searching for another location for his Bethesda-based antique business, he had no idea how that exploratory jaunt to the Virginia countryside would change his life forever.

Then again, there was a portent of things to come when he stopped in Aldie to meet at the office of his real estate agent who was going to show him some available retail space up the road in Middleburg.

As they were talking in front of the office, an older man named Ralph Cockrell approached and asked Tucker “aren’t you Cleveland Withers boy?” Tucker’s parents had divorced when he was only three, and while he had seen his father about twice a year after that, he was totally unaware that Cleveland, by then deceased, had actually moved out to Aldie and had lived there for quite some time after the divorce.

“The bottom line is that I bought a place in Aldie that day,” Withers said. “I had called my mother and she said ‘I never told you this, but your father did live in Aldie.’ I bought 25 acres, a big red barn and a big gray house across from the fire house. I started with antiques and I figured that if I could get them to stop in Aldie before they got to Middleburg, I’ll do all right.”

Withers was 31 and single at the time, and he’s done just fine ever since.

Photos by Leonard Shapiro

He recalled that Aldie was not in particularly good shape back then, with an aging population and some dilapidated, poorly maintained homes. He started buying up some of those properties and began to fix them up—“little ones, big ones and everything in between,” he said. In all, he purchased a dozen of them, a one-man renewal crew who helped change the look of the town back then and ever since.

When he first arrived, Withers said he occasionally would accompany the postman as he made his rounds to about 100 homes. These days, the town goes all the way east on Route 50 to Stone Ridge and the Harris Teeter shopping center, with more than 8,000 homes technically with Aldie mailing addresses, and many more homes now under construction between there and Gilberts Corner.

“They may not know it, but they are considered Aldie,” Withers said. “It doesn’t really impact us much in the village. Life is pretty much the same as its always been. But now we can to to a movie that’s only eight miles away in Brambleton. The grocery store is five minutes away. That’s been a big change.”

There have been many others, perhaps none more significant than the makeover of the tiny town’s infrastructure—specifically the improvement of Route 50, the addition of brick sidewalks and stone walls and bridges coming in and going out of the village. It happened because Withers and several others wrote a letter to a federal agency requesting a $9 million grant to do the job.

“Some people in town were opposed in the

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Tucker Withers

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Don’t miss an exclusive Parisian Rigaud scent-layering event, Dec. 6th from 1pm-4pm. Debbie deGroff, with Rigaud-Paris, will be in store to demonstrate.

7 East Washington St. · Middleburg, VA · 540.687.5241 · foxfireantiques.com Across the street from The Red Fox Inn.

November 2014

In keeping with the spirit of giving, we’re taking 25% off select items throughout the store. Find the highest quality French and European antiques in the DC area at Foxfire. Unique furnishings, art and accessories – timeless treasures that hold their value. Visit us today and experience a happier holiday.

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that business as a six-month-old—and is now a budding horse trainer. That’s no surprise. He shares his name with a Florida race track and the family spends time every summer going to the races at Saratoga.

Daughter Lilly had her signature homemade lemonade bottled—Lilly’s Lemonade, of course—for years, and it’s still available by the case. She’s now starting up Lillybird’s, a custom-made baked-goods business. And little sister Gracie has had her own flower and greeting card business and is a contributing writer for Middleburg Life.

The opening last year of the Salamander Resort hasn’t hurt business at the Little River Inn one bit. In fact, Withers said, “when they opened, we had people stay here who wanted to eat at their restaurant but didn’t want to pay their room rates. Salamander has booked rooms from us for the film festival and other events when they don’t have enough space themselves. They’ve been great for business for us, and for business in Middleburg.”

Withers’ migration to Aldie back in ’78 has also been good for some special weekly entertainment for his legion of friends and neighbors, specifically his weekly penny ante poker games that attracted a colorful cross section of locals back then, and now, including one 93-year-old player who has become a regular in recent years.

“We used to play at the firehouse, but we got kicked out because a new fire chief was a Baptist,” Withers said with a sly smile. “Then we went to our antique shop and played there for many years. Then it was the Tennis Club and now it’s moved to Sunday nights at a different house every time. When we first started, Fritz Hutchinson was a Boy Scout leader, and he’d come in his uniform. Jeep Craun was the Middleburg Police Chief and he’d come in his uniform. And another player was a Loudoun sheriff’s deputy and he’d show up in his uniform. I would have loved for someone to raid this place with all those guys in the game. And we never did get raided.” n

www.middleburglife.net

beginning,” he said. “But it’s really a good thing.

Now the cars slow down, we have sidewalks, it looks great.”

Long before that project got underway, Withers bought an old run-down building a few doors down from the Aldie Store. Taking advantage of the tax recovery act in 1981 that allowed tax credits to restore historic buildings, Withers renovated that structure and turned it into the Little River Inn in 1982, a cozy bed and breakfast.

“I had gone to England and stayed in some B&Bs over there,” he said. “It wasn’t really a popular concept. I remember going to the Middleburg Bank and asking (late bank executive) John Palmer for a $20,000 loan. I started to explain what the idea was and it didn’t take long for him to say he’d heard enough. He gave me the money. About a month later, I needed another $20,000 and he said yes again. Local people were saying ‘what are you doing? And what’s a bed and breakfast anyway?’ People were thinking who’s going to spend a night in Aldie to begin with?”

Over the years, hundreds of guests from around the country and even the far reaches of the globe have stayed overnight or far longer in the six-room inn. Withers and his wife, Mary Ann, have been gracious hosts, as well as bodacious breakfast chefs, serving up all manner of savory morning dishes for their clients. His specialty is Dutch apple baby, and his French Toast is ooh la la magnifique.

Tucker and Mary Ann met one night in The Coach Stop in Middleburg in 1984. She was then teaching in Fairfax County, but before long, they were married and one of those renovated build-ings became her antique shop, next door to the renovated Aldie Mill, a project the Withers’ also helped jump start. She ran the shop for a dozen years, then rented out the space to another dealer, then went back to owning and running it herself a few years ago.

The whole family is similarly entrepreneurial.

Older son Calder sold tomatoes he grew as a child—his father said he had he boy’s name on

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DANCE, PUTT,TALK and RUN

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Don Yovanovich, Stephanie O’Connor, Joan Clarke, Dennis Kates

Doug Williams, Super Bowl MVP

www.middleburglife.net

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hat is on the dance floor, on the green, on the dais and on the track? It’s the West Virginia Breeders Classic. It all kicked off with founders and hosts Carol Holden and Sam Huff (NFL Hall of Fame #70) from Middleburg at the Clarion Hotel in Shepherdstown. The toe-tapping gala featured dance tunes from the era of the Gene Donati society big band orchestra with music by McCusker and Barrick. The next morning it was up bright and early for a round of golf with Redskin alumni such as trainer Bubba Tyer, Pat Fischer and Ron McDole.

On Saturday morning as horses went through their early morning workouts on the track in Charles Town, racing and football devotees gathered above in the Skyline Dining room for a “Breakfast of Champions” sponsored by the Charles Town HBPA and the Hollywood Casino and to benefit the Charles Town Races chaplaincy and Eastern Panhandle Free Clinic.

Three-time Eclipse award winning jockey Ramon Domingues was honored. And a powerful line up of the Redskins of yesteryear were also on hand: Sonny Jurgensen, Charley Taylor, Ted Vactor and Doug Williams.

The main speaker at the breakfast was long-time Middleburg area resident Leonard Shapiro, a former editor and sports columnist at The Washington Post and a member of the writers wing at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

And finally, it was a nine-race $1.28 million evening. The $500,000 West Virginia Breeders Classic at 1 1/8 miles (the richest state-bred race in the country) was won by Russell Road, whose career earnings now exceed $1.8 million, with 28 wins in 53 starts, and three Classic victories. The eight-year-old was ridden by Jose Montano and trained by James Casey for owner Mark… Russell.

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Pat Fischer

Bruce Allen, Redskins general manager

Bubba Tyer, Ted Vactor, Jerry Olsen, Sam Huff, Len Shapiro, Pat Fischer, Ron McDole

Russell Road was the big winner

Photo by Coady Photography

Sharon Correy and Ann MacLeod

Sports writer Len Shapiro with Sam Huff, the CEO and chairman of the West Virginia Breeder Classics

Carol Holden and Prince Havely, lead singer Chris and Becky Lincoln of McCusker and Barrick

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S: S H A R E YO U R # S a la M e m o ry

participating in Gingerbread House Making or enjoying a Thanksgiving meal, the holidays are a special time of year at Salamander® Resort & Spa. Start a new tradition with families and friends this year at the region’s most luxurious resort – call or book online to reserve your holiday getaway.

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Photos courteesy of Salamander Resort & Spa

Someone once said, ‘Grapes are wasted on jelly’

The Grapes of Beauty

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November 2014

By Dulcy Hooper For Middleburg Life

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when they met Dr. Vercauteren, a professor at the University of Pharmacy in Bordeaux who taught them about the impact of grape seeds, skins and stems.

In 1994, they registered a patent on the extraction and stabilization of grape seeds and shortly thereafter, launched a line of beauty products made from grape by-products. This was the first luxury vinotherapy skin care line to use stabilized grape seed polyphenols.

The grape water massage is now offered at Salamander Spa The vine and grape extracts used in Caudalie products come from the vineBy Dulcy Hooper yards of Bordeaux, Champagne and Burgundy.

For Middleburg Life According to Mathilde Thomas, guests experiencing Caudalie’s Vinotherapie treatments new line of vinotherapy called will benefit from “high quality services using Caudalie has recently been the vine’s ancient powers, combined with the introduced at the Salamander scientific findings on the benefits of the vine Resort & Spa. All parts of the and grapes. Caudalie products are rich in grape are used, from seeds and anti-oxidants and anti-aging properties.” Polystems to sap, in skincare prod- phenols are featured in all Caudalie products. ucts and treatments that have been tested and Salamander spa director Penny Kriel said approved by leading dermatologists. she’s been delighted to introduce this line to the The concept of vinotherapy was created spa’s services.

by Mathilde Cathiard-Thomas and her hus“We were looking for a special line of band, Bertrand Thomas, from the Bordeaux products to partner with,” she said, “and it region of France. It was grape harvest season on was a very natural thing to look at Caudalie. the family’s estate, Chateau Smith Haut Lefitte, We’re in Virginia wine country, and they have

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Fresh Off the Vine mastered the art of using wine products. It’s a beautiful fit. In addition, they have great brand recognition and are used in some of the finest spas in the world.”

Along with grape by-products, Caudalie’s line is comprised of natural ingredients while avoiding harsh chemicals, artificial colorants, chemical preservatives, synthetic fragrance and chemical sunscreens. And, according to Kriel, this also was part of the appeal.

“Salamander is a LEED-certified facility,” she said, “and we want to partner with those who have the same philosophy of sustainability. Claudalie makes every effort to be environmentally friendly and natural, using a minimum of preservatives. Even their packaging is recycled or plant-based.”

Caudalie’s co-founder, Mathilde Thomas, maintains that, “Every day, we are looking for the next ‘green’ active ingredient.” Their products, she says, are formulated for those who do not want to choose between “effectiveness and naturalness, between glamour and ecology.”

According to Kriel, Claudalie face and body treatments are ideal for both men and women. Among the treatments being offered are the following: • Vinoperfect Radiance Facial – featuring essential oils and small river rocks (applied both warm and cool) and, as a finishing touch, Vinoperfect Radiance Serum featuring pat-

ented Viniferine, derived from the grapevine sap.

• Vinexpert Firming Facial – featuring Caudalie’s Vinexpert firming products, rich in patented Resveratrol-Oleyl.

• Anti-Oxidant Facial – a burst of vitamins and energy for the skin, with an energizing anti-oxidant rich treatment utilizing the detoxifying Regenerating Concentrate.

• Express D-Vine Facial – appropriate for all skin types and touted as a perfect introduction to a Caudalie treatment.

• Premier Cru Facial – an exceptional 60-minute anti-oxidant and anti-aging treatment.

And for those who want an ultimate experience: Crushed Cabernet Massage, described as an “indulgent body massage that starts with the signature Crushed Cabernet Scrub developed at the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa in Bordeaux, France.

The grape-rich scrub is blended with exfoliating grape-seeds, rich honey, softening brown sugar and essential oils. To enhance skin’s radiance and softness, the treatment is followed

by Caudalie’s signature sculpting massage using the Contouring Concentrate to relieve tension and enliven the body. This treatment leaves your skin fresh, toned and perfectly smooth.”

And with a nice glass of Cabernet, this could make an almost perfect pairing. n

By Marcia Woolman Middlburg Life Outdoors Columnist

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s our unpredictable weather continues to provide alternating droughts and floods, one thing is for sure; both extremes are very hard on streams.

We’re blessed in this area to have an amazing stream named Goose Creek, which is threatened by two equally insidious problems—nutrients from farming and livestock, and development with its accompanying paving, roofing and other impervious surfaces that keep water from returning to the ground where it should seep into our underground streams.

The Goose Creek Watershed comprises 386 square miles in Fauquier and Loudoun counties. It provides water for many farms as it flows through northern Fauquier and western Loudoun and supplies drinking water in Loudoun and Fairfax counties. The stream is 54 miles long and empties into the Potomac River.

To get to know your local stream better, the Goose Creek Association (GCA) has developed its first ever “report card” that scores the in-stream and riparian habitats and gives you a good idea of just how important this stream is to our area and our well being.

The report card, a full-color, four-page, document with easily read graphs and explanations, can be obtained by going to www.goosecreek.org.

“The report card summarizes water quality results based on data collected by Goose Creek Association and the Virginia Depart-

ment of Environmental Quality,” according to the report. “The grades for each site were averaged together to determine the overall watershed score for each indicator. The data suggests the Goose Creek watershed is significantly clean!”

There is a correlation showing that protected land protects the water quality. The only score below a B on the report card was for Benthic Macro-invertebrates (aquatic bugs). The primary reason is usually sediment brought on by erosion. The erosion comes from livestock breaking down stream banks with paths to the water, and also from excessively heavy rains which are more frequent now.

As high water rages along the banks, it moves loose soil and sends it racing into the stream to fall out in slower areas where it smothers insect life and oyster beds as far away as the Chesapeake Bay. The solution? PlantPhoto courtesy of Goose Creek Associaton ing riparian buffers which you will hear more Eroded stream banks create sediment bars and reduce aquatic habitat in Goose Creek. about in the spring. initiate your own freshwater stewardship plan. sider the value of a mom or dad training with Fresh, clean, cold water may become the While you’re focused on protecting our their teenage son or daughter, or a husband most sought after element in our universe. In water resource, consider expanding your effort and wife enjoying a day immersed in our lovely many places it already is. A profound awareness to the community level. The Goose Creek countryside. Grandparents are welcome, too. is developing because throughout the world, Association is looking for more volunteers to Learning to love your local stream is all water is becoming more scarce with every pass- train for their stream monitoring program. about getting to know it. We cannot love and ing year. It’s not only evident in Third World Emily Southgate and Andrea Rosse of the GCA protect what we do not know. Everyone who countries. Just check out Fresno, California. are approved to certify trainees. It’s a simple lives between Linden and Leesburg is part of We have something wonderful in this thing to learn to identify the aquatic insects the Goose Creek Watershed. You probably are area, and it’s time to to protect it. Get involved. found in our local waters. either part of the clean water solution or part of Plant some trees, fence out livestock, conserve Once trained, volunteers are offered a the problem faced by the Chesapeake Bay. n your own water use in simple ways, like turning monitoring site. Monitoring is done just twice the water off when you brush your teeth. Culti- a year in the spring and fall, and the results go (Marcia Woolman is a regular contributor to vate native plants that evolved to use the water to the Virginia Department of Environmental Middleburg Life, and serves on several conservaat levels found here in Virginia, and rain barrels Quality for its data base. It’s an important vol- tion organizations that focus on water quality are a good investment, too. Think about it, and unteer effort that requires work in teams. Con- issues. She is also a stream monitor.)

M i d d l e b u r g

Water: More Precious Than Oil

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Make your appointment today for the custom suiting event November 14th& 15th. www.middleburglife.net • November 2014

Now Located at 112 West Washington Street Middleburg, VA 540-687-5633

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A Touch and a Taste of Italy at Girasole in The Plains

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rances Mayes, famed author of Under the Tuscan Sun wrote, “If I were moving to Italy today, I might choose to live in the Marche. The region is studded with unspoiled villages and luscious countryside.”

Rich in time-honored culinary traditions, the Marche offers a bountiful selection of wines, seafood, meats and regional produce.

It’s an area close to the hearts of Lou and Lydia Patierno, and one which inspires the authentic Italian cuisine of their restaurant, Girasole, in The Plains.

Offering old world charm, fresh local ingredients, traditional as well as creative specials and an impressive calendar of events, Girasole, is an obvious labor of love for the couple who reside in Mount Vernon where they have raised their three college-age children.

Lou Patierno, owner and chef, first became acquainted with the corner building in The Plains during his fishing trips to the local area. Those visits often took place between the lunch and dinner hours of the couple’s popular restaurant, Panino in Manassas. After purchasing the property and establishing Girasole (sunflower in Italian) the Patiernos operated the two restaurants simultaneously until last November when Panino was sold after 23 years.

Nine months later, Girasole celebrated its 10th Anniversary.

In regard to Girasole’s success, Lydia Patierno said “I think we’ve earned it with quality and good service. For Lou, food is deep rooted…He is not a cook…He has an Italian mentality and a work ethic that has enabled him to learn, perfect and manage curating his own meats, creating sauces and soups, baking breads, and making all the pastries and gelatos on site.”

Of the many specials offered, in addition to the basic menu, Lou says, “It can be hard to keep up with, but people know so much more about food these days. It’s both fun and challenging.” Asked about being both chef and owner, he says simply, “the benefits far outweigh any downside”.

The Patiernos share much in common.

Both are Italian, with Lou third generation on both sides and Lydia Italian and Polish. They were influenced by food at an early age and attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y., where they met, she garnering one of the relatively few spots offered to women at the time.

Lydia and Lou Patierno

Each has years of cooking experience albeit in different locales, Lou eventually working at the late Tiberia restaurant in Washington, and Lydia for famed chef Hubert Schmeider. While Lydia utilizes her culinary experience as an educated taste tester for her husband’s creations, her additional experience in hotel management has proven invaluable for her role running Girasole on a daily basis.

They also credit the long term relationships they’ve established with exceptional people in the food and wine industries. They use their connections to offer a variety of interesting events throughout the year. They invite these professionals to collaborate on and/or host events.

Wine tastings are particularly popular. A recent tasting with a very knowledgeable server resulted in sales of over 200 bottles of wine. On Nov. 16, Girasole will host a dinner featuring regional dishes from the Marches, prepared by a visiting owner of an agriturismo, a working farm which offers accommodations and serves 80 per cent of what they produce. The regional dishes will be paired with wines from the Marches.

After experiencing Girasole first hand, if you want to truly experience Italy, Lydia offers small, private tours scheduled twice a year, in the spring and fall. She acts as a guide for these personalized tours, usually taking a group of ten people, often customers, for ten days. She might visit Sicily for one trip and the Marches, where she has family, for the other.

Sandwiched between the Appenines Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Le Marches is a region of Italy still relatively unknown, but often compared to Tuscany and Umbria without most of the tourists and expense. Lydia often brings back culinary ideas and products from her travels.

As for the next ten years, the Patiernos hope to maintain their standard of high quality food and enjoy more of the same—continued growth in their business with a loyal clientele.

Girasole is located at 4244 Loudoun Avenue, The Plains. Dinner is served seven nights a week; Brunch on Sunday. n

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classrooms. But baseball represents only a small portion of what the 180 children from third to fifth grade are learning.

It’s merely a small part of a curriculum that includes studies in stem science, technology and computer skills, English and language arts, all taught by mentors and other volunteers.

There is instruction in baseball and softball, “but that’s only the tip of the iceberg,” Sperduto said.

“During the school year, the kids come Tuesday through Thursday after school from 3:30 to 7:30. They get baseball, study time, classroom work and a meal. They also have electives— cooking, gardening, Lego engineering, agility and even yoga. Part of the core values are wellness and being healthy, with proper nutrition and eating habits.”

The program is free to third through fifth graders living in Wards 7 and 8. It’s open enrollment, and busses even pick up the children at two nearby elementary schools.

“The first thing we want to do is start developing great human beings who graduate from high school and then go on to college,” Sperduto said. “If you can start to develop a (Nationals star) Denard Span along the way, that’s great.

But there are kids here who have never even been exposed to the game before, and that’s part of our mission, too.”

Sperduto, who’s mother Tia is a well-regarded local artist and on staff at the Middleburg Library, was exposed to baseball early on by his father, Kim Sperduto, a Washington attorney.

At their Philomont farm, Kim carved out a

diamond in an open pasture, built a pitching mound and often played pitch, catch and hit with his son.

In Little League, Charlie was coached by Middleburg realtor Paul MacMahon, a fine baseball player himself at George Washington University whose son, Drew, also played on those teams. MacMahon had a core group of youngsters that didn’t lose a home game over a four-year span. He also recalled Charlie Sperduto with great fondness.

“Great kid,” MacMahon said. “Left-handed hitter, blazing speed, good arm, a natural. I coached him in soccer, too, and we were really good. He used his left foot so we put him at left wing and he was so fast, just amazing. I’m really happy to hear he’s doing so well.”

Sperduto played at Loudoun Valley High, then for several years at Elon where he walked on as a freshman and made the team. He came back to the Washington area after graduation, worked as an assistant baseball coach at Gonzaga High in D.C. and also completed a Masters in sports management at Georgetown. Gonzaga’s baseball coach, Andy Bradley, introduced him to the Academy’s executive director, Tal Alter, and the rest is baseball history.

“I’ve always wanted to work for a big league team,” Sperduto said. “I’m committed to the mission here at the academy. We’re a family, we’re all very close. You know you’re doing all right in life when you can laugh at work, and sometimes cry at work. We do great things here.

We’re definitely making a difference.” n

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organization.

At age 25, he’s no longer playing the game he adores.

Instead, he’s teaching it to inner city boys and girls in the District of Columbia as the coordinator of baseball and softball programs at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy.

When the Nationals arrived from Montreal in 2005, the new owners said they hoped to open a baseball academy in Wards 7 and 8 in the same area where the team’s new stadium is located. It took awhile to raise the funds, Charlie Sperduto (far right), coordinator of the Washington Nationals a task accomplished Youth Baseball Academy, with scholar-athletes Paul Anthony and Jania by owner Ted Lerner’s Jackson daughter, Marla Lerner Tanenbaum. The ribbonBy Leonard Shapiro cutting was held this past For Middleburg Life March, with city and team officials and many players in attendance.

Sperduto was the first academy coach hired harlie Sperduto’s love affair with baseball began on a homemade for the non-profit operation last August and field at his family’s Philomont “I’ve been fortunate enough to see it built from farm and was nurtured at Mid- scratch.”

The program now operates in a new dleburg’s Mickie Gordon Park.

As a Little Leaguer there, he $17.5 million facility that includes a regulawas a swift center-fielder and a cagey pitcher tion 90-foot diamond, two Little League fields who excelled in high school and college and and a 4,800-square-foot indoor training area. now works in the Washington Nationals There’s also office space, a spacious kitchen and

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From a Philomont Diamond to the Washington Nationals

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A T ouch and a T aste of Film festival fabulous Italy at Girasole in Second time around The Plains For cinephiles and anyone captivated by the industry, the Middleburg Film Festival 2 presented visitors the occasion to cross paths with filmmakers, producers, journalists, actors, designers, composers andEXCLUSIVE INTRODUCING OUR a cadre of Hollywood VIPs. Founded by Sheila Johnson and guided

by Executive Director Susan Koch, there were twenty films; a master class on “Where Does the Music Come From?” tributes to Colleen Atwood for Distinguished Costume Designer Award and Marco Beltrami for Distinguished Film Composer Award.

Panel discussions included: “Film Financing & Distribution” with Rick Allen, Pam Williams, William Hasselberger, Lauren Versel, Mark SennetSERVICE and Laura Bickford. The proceedings AWARD-WINNING were held at venues throughout the neighborhood: Salamander Resort & Spa, the Hill School, Buchanan Hall, the LOW RISK National Sporting Library & Museum and Boxwood Winery.

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Marco Beltrami received The Distinguished Film Composer Award for his musical scores.

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Director and screenwriter Richard LaGravenese, Sheila Johnson and Senator Tim Kaine.

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Independent film producers Albert Berger and Ron Yerxa in a discussion at Boxwood Winery.

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rances Mayes, famed author of Under the Tuscan Sun wrote, “If I were moving to Italy today, I might choose to live in the Marche. The region is studded with unspoiled Lydia and Lou Patierno villages and luscious countryside.”

Rich in time-honored culinary tradiEach has years of cooking experience albeit tions, the Marche offers a bountiful selection of wines, seafood, meats and regional produce. in different locales, Lou eventually working at MarktoSennet, producer, Hasselberger, financier, and PaminWilliams, pro- and the latefilm Tiberia restaurant Washington, It’s an area close the hearts of LouWilliam and Lydia ducer, are participants in a panel discussion about film financing and distribution.

Lydia for famed chef Hubert Schmeider.

While Patierno, and one which inspires the authentic Italian cuisine of their restaurant, Girasole, in Lydia utilizes her culinary experience as an educated taste tester for her husband’s creations, her The Plains.

Offering old world charm, fresh local additional experience in hotel management has ingredients, traditional as well as creative spe- proven invaluable for her role running Girasole cials and an impressive calendar of events, Gira- on a daily basis.

They also credit the long term relationsole, is an obvious labor of love for the couple who reside in Mount Vernon where they have ships they’ve established with exceptional people in the food and wine industries. They raised their three college-age children.

Lou Patierno, owner and chef, first use their connections to offer a variety of interbecame acquainted with the corner building in esting events throughout the year. They invite The Plains during his fishing trips to the local these professionals to collaborate on and/or area. Those visits often took place between the host events.

Wine tastings are particularly popular. A lunch and dinner hours of the couple’s popular restaurant, Panino in Manassas. After pur- recent tasting with a very knowledgeable server chasing the property and establishing Girasole resulted in sales of over 200 bottles of wine. On (sunflower in Italian) the Patiernos operated Nov. 16, Girasole will host a dinner featuring the two restaurants simultaneously until last regional dishes from the Marches, prepared November when Panino was sold after 23 years. by a visiting owner of an agriturismo, a workNine months later, Girasole celebrated its 10th ing farm which offers accommodations and serves 80 per cent of what they produce. The Anniversary.

In regard to Girasole’s Fashion designer Kay Unger, dressed success, as CruellaLydia de Vil, atregional dishes will be paired with wines from Patierno saidhonoring “I think we’ve earned it with award ceremony Colleen Atwood forqualher cos-the Marches. ityisand good service.

ForScissorhands, Lou, food is deep and After experiencing Girasole first hand, if tumes movies such as Edward Chicago Costume designer Mauren Jones. to truly experience Italy, Lydia offers rooted…He is not a cook…He has an Italian you want Memoirs of a Geisha. small, private tours scheduled twice a year, in mentality and a work ethic that has enabled the spring and fall.

She acts as a guide for these him to learn, perfect and manage curating his own meats, creating sauces and soups, baking personalized tours, usually taking a group of breads, and making all the pastries and gelatos ten people, often customers, for ten days. She might visit Sicily for one trip and the Marches, on site.”

Of the many specials offered, in addition where she has family, for the other.

Sandwiched between the Appenines to the basic menu, Lou says, “It can be hard Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Le Marches is a to keep up with, but people know so much region of Italy still relatively unknown, but often more about food these days. It’s both fun and challenging.” Asked about being both chef and compared to Tuscany and Umbria without most owner, he says simply, “the benefits far outweigh of the tourists and expense. Lydia often brings back culinary ideas and products from her any downside”.

The Patiernos share much in common. travels.

As for the next ten years, the Patiernos Both are Italian, with Lou third generation on hope to maintain their standard of high quality both sides and Lydia Italian and Polish. They food and enjoy more of the same—continued were influenced by food at an early age and attended the Culinary Institute of America in growth in their business with a loyal clientele.

Girasole is located at 4244 Loudoun Hyde Park, N.Y., where they met, she garnering Bradley and costume designer ColleenAvenue, AtwoodThe at a tea honoring The FabuPlains.

Dinner is served seven one ofDanielle the relatively few spots offered to women lous Women of Film. nights a week; Brunch on Sunday. n at the time.

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The horses aren’t the only ones who can jump

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Photos by Leonard Shapiro & Douglas Lees

Grinding Speed owned by Michael Wharton and ridden by Mark Beecher won the $60,000 International Gold Cup

Executive Director Diane Jones with Tommy Lee Jones, Bobby Burke and Kevin Maloney

Race Chairman Will Allison and Randy Rouse

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November 2014

International Gold Cup

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These two fascinating ladies wore the latest style in haberdashery

Marc Schappell, Cindy Polk and Tom Anderson of Washington Fine Properties

A tip of the hat from Clifford Burke with his 1933 Packard limo

Kate Barachas and Chris Wilson

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with a modern twist. Fall in love this Autumn with our Farm to Table Wine dinners!

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This is the second of two excerpts from the first chapter of a new book, “William Cabell Rives: A Country to Serve.” The author is the great, great, great grandson of Virginia Senator William Cabell Rives.

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Chef Joseph Watters has chosen only the finest ingredients in order to create classic dishes

By Barclay Rives For Middleburg Life

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Sundays April, 2013

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braham Lincoln knew William C. Rives by reputation in 1861, because Rives had been a prominent political, diplomatic and intellectual figure for three decades. Lincoln had quoted Rives during a speech in 1839, delivered when Lincoln was a little known Illinois state legislator.

Rives counseled other leaders during moments of crisis. Lafayette sought his approval before proceeding to install Louis Philippe on the French throne, after the Paris Revolution of 1830.

John Tyler appreciated Rives’ firm support when others doubted whether the Vice-President should become President, following the death of William Henry Harrison in 1841. In March 1865, General Lee conferred with Rives about how to preserve the Confederate cause while ending the conflict.

Thomas Jefferson tutored Rives during his youth. James Madison mentored Rives’ political maturation. Both Jefferson and Madison predicted Rives’ ascension to the nation’s foremost rank of leaders. Throughout his career Rives attempted to maintain the government Jefferson and Madison had conceived. Rives helped facilitate Congressional purchase of Madison’s papers. He wrote a three-volume biography of Madison and edited a four-volume edition of Madison letters.

Rives’ marriage to Judith Page Walker gained him a devoted life companion, who was also a gifted diplomatic and intellectual force. Judith charmed Washington and Paris society, while gathering information important to her husband’s work. The Rives were a Washington “power couple” long before there was such an expression.

Judith published works of non-fiction as well as novels, including Home and World, which offered a more serene portrayal of the 1850s plantation life than the sensational Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

Rives was a celebrated orator. A witness declared that, on at least one occasion, Rives triumphed in a debate when Henry Clay, who was the acknowledged Master of the Senate. Consistent

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Christmas In Provence Sunday, December 7, 2014 . 1:00 - 5:00

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Photo by Leigh Doran of Nadra Photography

with the style of his day, Rives’ speeches sometimes lasted over three hours. Rives, Clay, Webster, and their fellow congressmen spoke to attentive full galleries. Speechmakers aced no competition from electronic media.

Rives witnessed the conception of early electronic communication, when he stood beside Samuel Morse during a trans-Atlantic voyage.

Morse was discussing application of Benjamin Franklin’s electronic experiments, which led to Morse’s subsequent invention of the telegraph.

Rives was an inventive and dedicated agriculturalist. He earned great acclaim for his importation of a Cleveland Bay stallion in the 1850s, as well as for his prize-winning sheep and cattle.

Though he declared in the Senate that slavery was a great evil, Rives grappled unsuccessfully with the problem. He tried to arrest the country’s descent into dis-union. Rives bestowed the name Constitutional Union upon the only party attempting to attract national rather than sectional support in the four-way 1860 election. Rives applied all of his political skill and energy to the February 1861 Peace Conference, which he viewed as the country’s last hope.

Unable to abandon or oppose his native state, Rives joined the Confederate cause and served in its Congress. After the war, in the final act of a long life of public service, Rives served as a trustee of the Peabody Education Fund, along with General Grant, Admiral Farragut, and other distinguished northern and southern leaders. The fund aimed to restore southern educational institutions and was a symbol of reconciliation.

Love of the country, of Virginia, of his home, and of his family motivated Rives’ actions, along with his admiration of Jefferson and Madison.

Rives also adhered to a code of behavior understood and upheld by propertied men of his time.

Elements of the code included honor, duty, loyalty, dedication to family, honesty, truthfulness, forthrightness, faith, and bravery. During desperate times in 1861, Rives repeatedly summarized it as “manliness”.

Rives was not always allied with the winning side during his political career. However, minority opposition often helps shape legislation and events. Rives was influential, if not always decisive, during his decades of participation in national political life. n

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Leesburg Today/Danielle Nadler

Middleburg Community Charter School parent Susana Calley, Principal Barbara Smith and fifth-grade student Erin Calley take in the planet creations that were part of a first quarter assignment.

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By Danielle Nadler For Middleburg Life

ll that makes the Middleburg Community Charter School unique was literally on display last month at the end of the school’s first quarter.

The hallways and cafeteria were overtaken by student projects in the form of cardboard arcade creations, paper mâché planets, drama performances, dance routines and films.

The kindergarten through fifth-grade school opened Aug. 4 as the first public charter school in Northern Virginia. The school’s curriculum is based on the Leonardo DaVinci Project, which models learning after the thinking habits of the renowned Renaissance genius, encouraging curiosity, persistence and critical thinking.

Under that teaching model, each quarter students get an assignment on which they can collaborate with their parents to complete throughout the nine weeks. In the first quarter, kindergarten through second-grade students were asked to create postcards and stamps that reflect the communities in which they live, while the assignment for third- through fifthgrade students was to invent their own planet.

All of the “Family Leo Projects” lined the halls for parents, administrators, teachers and fellow students to see.

Erin Calley, a fifth-grade student, brainstormed with her older sister and mom to come up with a planet on which marshmallows are the primary food source. The spongy confectionaries even come in the form of vegetables on this planet.

Erin said it was different to have an assignment with such few barriers, and to be encouraged to complete it with the help of her family.

“I really liked that part of it,” she added.

Principal Barbara Smith said the DaVinciinspired teaching concept gives students a glimpse of real-world problem solving. “They learn to take into account feedback from others,

and it allows them to use their creativity without limits.”

Of the numerous inventions that Leonardo DaVinci is known for—including the parachute and diving suit—there are hundreds that never came to fruition. Smith said the open-ended assignments “encourages students to explore the endless possibilities early on.”

Other events filling the charter school’s first quarter included swimming lessons at the Middleburg Community Center and a workshop with experts from the Children’s Science Museum that invited students to experience an evening as a scientist. Parents filled the cafeteria for the monthly “Leo Talks,” which are designed

“They learn to take into account feedback from others, and it allows them to use their creativity without limits.”

Barbara Smith Principal , Middleburg Community Charter School

to give parents a chance to learn more about the school’s curriculum, hear the latest in educational research and get to know one another.

Also special to the charter school is its calendar, which runs from Aug. 4 to June 16 with two-week breaks after each quarter.

For the two weeks that follow the first and third quarters the school holds what’s called Intersession, which offers optional additional instruction focused on thematic and hands-on learning. The classes available to the students were anything but ordinary class offerings, including KidzArt, Minecraft Programming, Lego Robotics, Funky Fitness, Zig Zag Gallery and If I Ran A Circus—A Three Ring Art Experience. n

72-Acre Property in Piedmont Hunt Offers Astounding Views

M i d d l e b u r g

Abounding Opportunities for Equestrians

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Location: 9423 Blackpond Lane, Delaplane (20144).

Listed at: $1,500,000 by Marci Welsh, Long & Foster Realtors (703) 906-5802.

November 2014

Facts for buyers

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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

ur monthly featured property for November showcases the opportunity to own a classic piece of Hunt Country real estate, and design it to your own specifications.

Set on 72 acres in Piedmont Hunt and featuring incredible views and ride-out the property is home to a P.J. Williams-built seven-stall barn, five paddocks with run-in sheds, a 100x200 ring and an exceptional array of additional high-quality equestrian facilities.

Currently featuring a stylish, one-bedroom apartment with den – perfect for an office manager or other staff – the home awaits its next owner to design a showplace home that will stand for centuries as a testament to gracious living.

The property currently is on the market, listed at $1,500,000 by Marci Welsh of Long & Foster Real Estate.

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Comparable to exquisite Kentucky Horse Farms, the gently 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

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

WINDruSh

NorTh hILL

Magnificent country retreat on 30 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 w/T-1 capability. Pool, tennis court, gardens, greenhouse, 5 car garage. $3,495,000

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. $3,300,000

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Longwood Farm ~ 624 acres with an exceptional Broodmare Barn built in 2003 with 32 stalls, a lovely 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Tenant House, another 2Bedroom 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 $3,950,000 conservation easement.

Active Horse training center on 148+ Acres. The facilities include 11 barns with a total of 220 stalls. Each barn has access to 2 paddocks for a total of 22 paddocks. Within the premises are tack rooms, grooms quarters, office, a vet office and 3 bay machine shop. There is a 7/8’s mile race track with a 4 stall starting gate. 3 wells service the property. Convenient to Route 50 and Washington Dulles International Airport. $3,500,000

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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

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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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. $6,000,000

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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

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. $1,750,000

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

Expanded through the years, Takaro has wonderful entertaining areas both inside and out, many overlooking the pool. Two separate suites are wonderful for guests or home office. A dramatic main level apt. is attached to the handsome 7 stall barn. This 14.73 acre property offers a carriage barn, air conditioned dog $1,550,000 house, paddocks and pond.

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. $1,495,000

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

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111 E. WAShINGToN STrEET

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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

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.

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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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

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Beautifully remodeled and absolutely charming home in move-in condition, minutes west of Middleburg. One level living with kitchen, living room, dining room and 3 bedrooms, 2 baths on upper level. Walk out lower level with stunning family room with fireplace, full bath, office and mudroom. 4.33 Acres including fenced paddock and small barn, ready for your horse. $665,000

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

November 2014

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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 and engineers report verifying a site for a 5 Bedroom septic, well and potential pond site.

Open space easement, land cannot be divided. $1,400,000

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

MELROSE: 12 parcels (none in easement), comprise the 555+ acres, some of the finest managed land in the country.

Part of the 2400 Acre estate of Spring Hill Farm. One can purchase additional property from the 2400 Acre estate of Spring Hill. Currently on the property are 2 tenant homes and 3 barns. Part of this land also backs to a game preserve. $3,446,457

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www.middleburglife.net

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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

November 2014

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Langhorne Farm

Oakfield

Flint Hill Farm

Upperville, Virginia • $5,320,000

Upperville, Virginia • $4,900,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $3,800,000

266 acres in Piedmont Hunt • Panoramic views of the Blue Ridge, Bull Run and Cobbler mountains which surround the whole property • Improvements include 4 farmhouses, an iconic red dairy barn and many agricultural buildings • Ponds and traditional stone walls • This working farm is protected by a Virginia Outdoors Foundation conservation easement which allows 2 parcels

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

Circa 1789 masterpiece • Stunning site is unmatched in the region • 15 acres amidst 400 protected acres • Main house has 3 BR, amazing kitchen, limestone floors, mahogany doors, 4 FP • 3 BR guest cottage • 2 BR carriage house • Charming guest quarters • Stunning views, exquisite detail • Rare find, fantastic value

Paul MacMahon

Ann MacMahon

(703) 609-1905

(540) 687-5588

Faraway Farm

Wood Hill

Trough Hill Farm

Middleburg Area • $3,350,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $3,300,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $2,950,000

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

3 miles from Middleburg • 49 acres • Elegant 1940's brick colonial home • Stable • Cottage • Apartment • Pool • Tennis court • Mature trees and sweeping lawn to Goose Creek which surrounds most of the property

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

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

Helen MacMahon

Ann MacMahon Paul MacMahon

(540) 454-1930

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

Providence Farm

The Haven

Stonewood

Bluemont, Virginia • $2,650,000

The Plains, Virginia • $2,495,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $970,000

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

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

Helen MacMahon

Paul MacMahon

(540) 454-1930

(540) 454-1930

(703) 609-1905

www.middleburglife.net

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November 2014

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

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Washington Street

The Corner Garden Building

Flag Farm

Middleburg, Virginia • $895,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $650,000

Delaplane, Virginia • $599,999

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

4+/- acre small private farm • 3 bedroom home in very nice condition • Great porches • Hardwood floors • 2 fireplaces • New kitchen & updated bathrooms • Lots of storage in unfinished basement with many uses • Property is fenced for horses • Run in shed • Machine shed • 2 stall barn • Electric & water to all outbuildings • Generator

Helen MacMahon

Margaret Carroll

Paul MacMahon

(703) 609-1905

info@sheridanmacmahon.com www.sheridanmacmahon.com

(540) 454-1930

(540) 454-0650

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

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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.

ack when when my wife, Bryan, and I were building our first home in the mid-1970s, there was one man in particular I wanted to help us build

the house.

That would be the late Charles Turner, a lifelong resident of Middleburg who was an expert in masonry and bricklaying. He and his family lived right on Washington Street in the house accompanying this story not far from the Exxon Station.

Everyone called him Jack, and I’m not exactly sure why. He also had a partner, Edward Dade, and his nickname was Slick. Again, no idea on that one either. I do know that they were both master craftsmen and did a lot of work in town and all around the area Charles Turner, a lifelong resident of Middleburg who was an expert in masonry and bricklaying, lived with his family for many years. They were both highly on Washington Street not far from the Exxon Station respected and did a great job.

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Mr. Turner also was a real solid citizen. He served as a deacon at the Shiloh Baptist Church, and from 1986 to 1991, he also was a member of the Middleburg Town Council.

My great friend, Doc Saffer’s family lived a few doors away, and growing up we all played together with his kids and were all friends. Their house is still one of the nicest ones ion town.

Eura H. Lewis also became acquainted with Mr. Turner, and while she said she did not know him well, “I do know he was a real gentleman and a great family man.

“He was a member of the NAACP and he also was a supporter of the Lott Carey Foreign Mission,” she said.

“They helped support people in different countries overseas, a lot of them in Africa, where there was a need for help.

He would hold fundraisers and contribute money. He was a very good man.” n

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Photo by Leonard Shaprio

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ongtime Middleburg resident Ed Wright has collected

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Mary Kakouras 540-454-1604

FOREST RIDGE LN, BLUEMONT - The ultimate property. Want a place to hide?~this is it — 95+ acres of PRIVACY in the woods with western VIEWS!!

Attached 2 story workshop & Detached 3 story Woodshop w/ dust collection system & 5 horse power air compressor. Main level Master. Hardwood Floors thru most of home. Built in shelves & cabinetry. Dark Room in bsmnt. Decks, Covered Porches. 3 additional DURs. Easy access to both Rt 7 & Rt 50. $925,000 Marcy Cantatore 540-533-7453

E m US 4 p O H 1 N 1/9 E 1 P O N SU

LAURELL HILL, DELAPLANE - Charming Log Home on 20+ acres in very private setting at the base of Little Cobbler Mt.Original log house c.1840 was part of a larger tract deeded by Chief Justice Marshall to his son Thomas in 1845. In 1950 the log portion was remodeled and joined to the original stone kitchen Property also has a 4 stall barn ,fenced for horses, pool, sauna and wine cellar, mature landscaping and gardens. $895,000 Jane Hensley 571-550-2728

AL CI R E L M TA M EN CO R

www.middleburglife.net

CHARLES TOWN PIKE OFF RT 9, HAMILTON, VA - 40.5 Acres.

Prelimanary subdivision is complete. Vested till 2017. 9 potential lots, 9 installed wells,and 9 approved septic sites. Land is in land use. Seller not responsible for roll back taxes. Property currently planted in crops, leased to local farmer. $995,000

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Marcy Cantatore 540-533-7453

NORTH FORK RD, PURCELLVILLE - REDUCED - Unique 1800’s Log and Frame House with updated interior and old charm character. Interior log walls & large fireplace in Liv Rm; wood stove on Sun Porch; separate Din Rm; galley Kitchen with S S appliances; Full Bath; Studio; all on main floor. 2nd Floor: 2 Bed Rms; full Bath; Laundry. New Roof! Located between Purcellville & Middleburg with easy access to Leesburg. Enjoy the quiet of the countryside on 2.7 Acres. A Must See! $358,000 Mary Owen Chatfield-Taylor 540-454-6500

WASHINGTON ST, MIDDLEBURG - Middleburg main street retail space for lease. Aprox.1000 sq/ft on ground level. Prime location across from post office and next to ABC store. $2,350 Jane Hensley 571-550-2728

November 2014

BOOTH RD, LOVETTSVILLE - Perfect turnkey house, cottage & horse barn.

Equestrian property ideal for boarding training operation. 8 -stall Morton barn & lighted arena with all weather footing. Charming 2 level 2 bath Cottage with separate address has mahogany floors. Main house is completely remodeled with European-style sleek stainless & marble kitchen,& custom wide plank floors. Add’l barn for chickens goats & sheep. $749,000

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George Mason Mortgage stands apart from the George Mason Mortgage stands apart from the competition, offering you the loan product that competition, offering you the loan product that fits your individual needs. We offer fast closings fits your individual needs. We offer fast closings and a wide variety of mortgage loan programs. and a wide variety of mortgage loan programs.

Contact me today to learn more!

Contact me today to learn more!

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

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H HELPING ELPING Y YOU OU T HE R IGHT FFIND IND THE RIGHT F FITIT

LORETTA FLYNNFLynn LLoan oretta LORETTA FLYNN Senior Officer Senior Loan Officer Senior Loan215260 Officer NMLS# 215260 NMLS# NMLS# 215260

Limestone 7454 7454 Limestone Drive Drive 7454Gainesville, Limestone Drive Gainesville, VA 20155 VA 20155 Gainesville, VA 20155 Phone: 703-802-5310 Phone: 703-802-5310 Phone: 703-802-5310 Cell: 571-229-6717 Cell: 571-229-6717 Cell: 571-229-6717 Email: lflynn@gmmllc.com Email: lflynn@gmmllc.com Email: lflynn@gmmllc.com

Apply Online: www.gmmllc.com/lflynn Apply Online: www.gmmllc.com/lflynn

his spicy southern dish is a great crowd pleaser - If you have a house full this is a great stress free way to feed them. Reheat the gumbo slowly on the stove and make a big batch of Jasmine rice – I mily served it with plenty of crusty bread and a simple green salad. The Andouille sausage can pack a lot of heat so I held the hot sauce for individual preference.

In the Kitchen with E TylEr

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Space reservations:

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Copy due on or before:

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Pub date is: MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

PLEASE CALL 540.687.6325

JSC Construction, Inc. Jerry S. Coxsey General Contractor

Stone Masons Carpentry Custom Homes & Renovations No Job Too Small, or Too Large

www.middleburglife.net

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November 2014

In House:

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

P.O. Box 1969 Middleburg, VA 20118

UP

platter.

Cinnamon Pumpkin Flan

For all you frustrated pie crust makers, this pumpkin flan is your answer. It’s a classic pumpkin pie filling bathed in a light caramel. Even though my mother is an expert pie crust maker, this is one of our family favorite holiday desserts.

Makes about two dozen cookies Serves 6 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup cooked pumpkin 5 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla 2 large eggs lightly beaten Serve with lightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream • In a heavy bottomed saucepan heat ½ cup of the sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar melts and is a light golden color.

• Pour immediately into a nine-inch glass pie pan and swirl around. It’s okay if it hardens up before it coats the entire bottom.

• Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

• Combine all the remaining ingredients in a

Cinnamon Pumpkin Flan blender and blend until smooth. Be careful as it will be full.

• Pour into the pie pan.

• Set the flan in a pan of hot water and bake the flan for about one hour or until a knife inserted into the flan comes out clean.

• Cool, then chill in the refrigerator overnight.

• To serve run a knife around the perimeter and turn over onto a serving platter. Make sure it has an edge to contain the caramel.

• Cut into wedges and serve with the lightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla Ice cream.

April, 2013

December deadlines: BOOKED

•

Serves 12 1 tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 3 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken Chicken and sausage gumbo thighs 1 ½ pounds Andouille sausage cut into • In the same oil, brown the sausage in batches half-inch slices and transfer to the platter. ½ cup (or more) vegetable oil • Pour off all of the oil/drippings to a heat proof 1 cup all-purpose flour container and reserve.

1 cup chopped onions (I use frozen) • Put the stock pot back on the heat and add 2 red peppers, finely diced about 2 cups of the chicken stock and deglaze the pot scraping all the fond from the bottom of the 4 stalks celery, finely diced pot. Pour into another heat proof container and 8 cups of chicken stock reserve.

1 14.5 ounce can petite diced tomatoes • Add oil if necessary to the reserved oil/drippings 3 bay leaves to make 1 cup and pour back into the empty stock 2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced pot and add the flour. Whisk constantly until the 2 cups okra cut into ½” pieces (thaw if using roux starts to thicken and turns the color of chocolate milk about 15 minutes. frozen) • Add the onions, celery and peppers and stir.

1 tablespoon Worchester sauce • Add the chicken stock, the reserved stock/fond Juice of ½ lemon and tomatoes.

1 tablespoon honey • Add the chicken and the sausage and any accumulated juices from the pan.

Serve with Jasmine rice, chopped parsley and • Simmer for 45 minutes on medium low. hot sauce • Add the okra and simmer for another 30 minutes.

• Combine the salt, pepper and the smoked • Remove from the heat and add the Worcester paprika and set aside sauce, lemon and honey.

• Cut the chicken thighs into 8 pieces each and • Cool and then refrigerate. toss with the salt mixture.

• Skim the fat from the surface before reheating • In a large heavy stock pot heat the oil. for serving.

• Brown the chicken in batches and transfer to a

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Middleburg Memories with Ed Wright

Credit and collateral are subject to approval.Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend.

Programs, rates, terms and conditions areconditions subject toapply. change without Credit and collateral are subject to approval.Terms and This is notnotice. a commitment to lend.

Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

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MIDDLEBURG OFFICE

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

M i d d l e b u r g

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

L i f e

Paeonian Springs

$1,899,000 Boyce

$1,745,000 Delaplane

$1,500,000

Superior home on 18+ acres. Private w/ breathtaking views just outside of Leesburg. 8200 sq. ft. above grade, Main Level Bedroom, Kitchen w/ Gathering Room, fireplace, double wolf stove, travertine floors.

American cherry wood floors on main and 2nd levels, 2 laundry rooms, furnished home theater, Rec Room, Stone Patio, Barn with huge upper level. LO8293563

“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 acre equestrian property in Piedmont Hunt. Incredible views and ride out, PJ Williams built 7 stall barn, office, tack room, wash stall, feed room, 1/2 bath and lots of storage. 5 large paddocks w/runin sheds. 100x200 ring w/excellent footing. Wonderful 1 bedroom/bath apt w/den; heart pine floors, top appliances, screened porch. Property has several potential home sites. FQ8475464

Joyce Santiago 703.244.1344

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

Marci A. Welsh 703.906.5802

ThE worLD’S MoST DESirED hoMES — BrouGhT To you By LoNG & FoSTEr aND ChriSTiE’S.

Middleburg

$1,100,000

“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.

LO8464913 • www.39374snickersvilleturnpike.com

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

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

$899,000

“Rocky Knoll” Extraordinarily well built solid home. Heavy gauge steel infrastructure, all brick siding, standing seam metal roof. Large rooms, tall ceilings, commercial grade stainless steel kitchen, elevator, steam shower, wine cellar, lots of storage. Climate controlled pet room. Handicap acc. Private, convenient to 66 and Middleburg.

FQ8473555 • www.3400bullrunmountainrd.com

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

$695,000 Upperville

$329,900 Marshall

$279,900

Best value in town! 4BR, 2 BA, HUGE family room addition, new appliances and counter tops, large side deck hard wood floors, walking distance to shops, located on a quiet cul-de-sac with excellent commuter access!

This is best in class and comes with a home warranty.

Must see to appreciate! FQ8473171

Marci A. Welsh 703.906.5802

Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

All Properties Offered Internationally Worldwide Connections

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November 2014

Totally renovated cottage with barn and workshop makes the perfect weekender! Located in Horse and Wine Country, 10 minutes from historic Middleburg and about an hour from Wash. D.C. Surrounded by large farms yet close to great shopping & fine dining. Priced to sell! LO8455726

•

Fabulous equestrian property in a great location between Middleburg and Purcellville. Charming Cape Cod which has been completely renovated. Open floor plan with large first floor master, ample closets & finished basement.

Wood burning fireplace in family room. Patio and large front porch. State-of-the-art six stall barn, outdoor ring w/ quality footing and large paddocks with run-in sheds.

LO8371920

www.middleburglife.net

Purcellville

The Plains

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M i d d l e b u r g

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FOR RENT Office Activities on Rockburn Farm

FARM, • • • • •

BUSINESS,

A House and Horse Barn located in a prime location off Atoka Road

PERSONAL

Bookkeeping Bill Paying Accounting & Payroll Special Projects Property Management

Andy Martin

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, L.R., D.R., Large kitchen, great views.

The barn has 8 stalls, tack room, wash room and hay storage. There are paddocks, turn out sheds and a large pasture.

More stalls are available.

Discreet, Reliable

Rent is $3500/month.

202.223.3839 andymartin911@gmail.com Fauquier, Loudoun, Clarke Counties Andréa (Andy) Martin Management, LLC

540-364-4180 703-283-0358 703-980-8109

MIDDLEBURG HUMANE FOUNDATION

Ellie

Visit our website for available animals & applications.

Ellie is a 15H 4 year old OTTTB mare.

She is currently in training & shows great potential to be a Hunter or Low Level Eventer. She is sound & gentle natured, stands quietly in cross ties, & stands for the farrier & vet. She needs the right person to finish her training & give her a forever home. Ellie has huge potential, a great project horse!

www.middleburghumane.org

Alice Duggan

Chelsea Wasmund and daughter Camilla

(540) 364-3272 Edie Smart

Miranda Robinson

DUVALL DESIGNS GALLERY 2053 Millwood Road Millwood VA

www.middleburglife.net

26

December

Deadlines:

•

November 2014

John Pettibone

Space reservations:

THE VERY FINEST CONTEMPORARY ART FURNITURE & CRAFT in an HISTORIC SETTING www.duvalldesignsgallery.com

Rob Banse

Hunt Hyman and Bill Ferster

Terry Linton and grandson Alex David Hartley and Sandy Young

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Copy due on or before: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26

Pub date is: MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

PLEASE CALL 540.687.6325

Sean McCaskey roasts oysters

Photos by Leonard Shapiro

Middleburg Common Grounds ML

L i f e

t Co fas f k B h a ee fee, e nc ay r r D B Lu ll & WTea, & dA ine rve e S Mon. -Thurs. 6 am to 8 pm • Fri. 6 am to 10 pm Sat. 8 am to 10 pm • Sun. 8 am to 6 pm

M i d d l e b u r g

Cof However ch n u fee,you say L B Find the good and praise it.

Alex Haley y & e-er celebrate Torea it: a stno banks.

D a Got no check books, got Still I’d like to express my thanks f &W , ll ainkthe morning A I got the sun and the moon at night. Irving Berlin e ine d r Happy esprouts, remember the man who planted them.

Beating bamboo v When r Thanksgiving Chinese Proverb Se Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow. Edward Sandford Martin

114 W. W. Washington Street •Street Middleburg • VA • 540.687.7065 114 Washington • Middleburg • VA Stonedale and Jim Ryan at Llangollen, 1932. Colored pencil drawing by Paul Brown. Courtesy Donald P. Brennan.

THEN&THERE

November and The Piedmont Foxhounds Races at Llangollen

By Richard Hooper For Middleburg Life

E

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BILL TYLER HOMES Thanks for trusting us with your view...

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

November 2014

[Richard Hooper is an antiquarian book expert and dealer in Middleburg. He also specializes in art objects related to dogs, horses and equestrian sports. In addition, he does fine woodworking.]

! !

•

Stonedale was owned and hunted by Malcolm McGiffin, president of Fidelity Trust Company of Pittsburgh. McGiffin’s color’s were cerise with canary stripes, canary sleeves and cap, as accurately shown by Paul Brown in his picture.

McGiffin died in 1934 and Rolling Rock Hunt named one of their races the Malcolm McGiffin Memorial in his honor. Later Rolling Rock added the Stonedale Cup as a trophy at their hunter trials.

Jim Ryan’s father, Owen, managed Cleaboy Stud at Mullingar, Ireland. Owen was renowned for his knowledge of horses and decided that his son did not have the ability to be in that business and sent him off to work in a dye factory at age 14.

Jim started racing as an amateur. When he came in first ahead of the horse owned by the owner of the dye works, he was fired from his factory job.

Not to be outdone, Jim turned pro and eventually made his way to America.

As well as jockeying Stonedale to numerous victories, Ryan rode and trained for Paul Mellon, Richard K. Mellon and Mrs. F. Ambrose Clark.

An article in Sports Illustrated in 1967 stated that “Tattersalls, London’s legendary auctioneers, recently said Jim Ryan was the second-best judge of horseflesh in their 200-year history.” His father, Owen, would have been appalled. He was ranked as fourth. n

Architectural and Interior Photography As a Memory Book or for Insurance and Real Estate Photos

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ach November from 1931 to 1934, the Piedmont Fox Hounds held their race meets at Llangollen Farm in Upperville.

It was advertised in Records of Hunt Race Meetings in America that it would run there again in 1935. However, that was not to be.

It was a four-race card comprised of the Piedmont Gold Cup (three miles over timber); the Ayrshire Cup (four miles over a hunting course) and the Blue Riband Chase (2 1/2 miles over brush. The card included The Llangollen National Steeplechase (also known as The Llangollen Cup) which, with its $5,000 purse, was the largest prize yet to be awarded at a hunt race meeting. There was also a fifth race, the Jumping Jack Trophy, a steeplechase for mules.

The Loudoun-Fauquier Magazine described the 1931 event as, “One of the greatest and most colorful sporting events in the history of Virginia, attended by nearly 20,000 of the socially prominent from New York, Philadelphia, Washington, and other devotees of the Sport of Kings from the Virginia hunting country.” The New Yorker magazine covered the event as well and breezily referred to Llangollen as “Jock Whitney’s place.”

The races served as a coming out for John Hay “Jock” Whitney, who had purchased Llangollen in 1930, and his recent bride, the former Liz Altemus. They would divorce in 1940, and it is assumed that domestic complications were the cause for no additional races to have been run at Llangollen after 1934 which, coincidentally, was the same year that Liz was deeded the farm.

It is not surprising that Paul Brown, the great illustrator of horses and equestrian sports, was in attendance. In 1931, he captured the event in a sketchbook of 15 drawings in graphite pencil, which is now in the National Sporting Library.

Brown returned in 1932 and executed a beautiful colored pencil and chalk drawing of Stonedale, a seven-year-old chestnut gelding, with Jim Ryan up, jumping the last hurdle before winning the Piedmont Gold Cup. The pair had also taken the same honors the previous year.

In 1931, the weather was misty but the course “hard as iron,” and Stonedale won by half a length. In 1932, the weather was raw and the course was “almost flooded... waterlogged and

boggy; worse racing conditions could not be imagined,” and Stonedale “won by a distance.” In that year he also won the Radnor Hunt Cup and was second in the Grand National Point to Point in Maryland.

Paul Brown was meticulous in getting details correct: the size of fences, the racing colors and recalling the position and order of the horses over the hurdles. He would fill his notebooks with such details to incorporate into later drawings and watercolors. But his depiction of Stonedale as he and rider Jim Ryan near the finish perhaps takes some liberties: It shows an immaculately clean horse and rider, looking as if they have just left the paddock. However, after nearly three miles over an almost flooded course, both would have been covered with mud – a detail Brown chose to omit in honor of a prettier picture.

SPECIALIZING IN

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MIDDLEBURG HUMANE FOUNDATION

The Middleburg Humane Foundation is entering our 21st year serving animals & people.

We have outgrown our current 4-acre facility & have begun a Capital Campaign to build an entire new farm shelter campus on 23 acres of donated land!

The Equine & Livestock Rescue facility will be the first to be built.

www.middleburglife.net

•

November 2014

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

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$25,000 Horse Barn Stalls Stall sponsorships are needed. $1,000 Shade Trees Various trees will be planted to provide shade. $5,000 Pig Enclosures 2 natural pig pens with shade, mud & comfy sheds. $20,000 Horse Turn Out Sheds 6 shed sponsorships needed. $2,500 Poultry & Small Livestock Building Goats, sheep, Emus oh my! $2,500 Bunny Barn Several sponsors are needed for the hutches & barn. $5,000 Fencing Sponsorships needed to help keep our animals safe! $1,000 Gates Numerous sponsorships needed.

MHF will break ground by the end of 2014! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor to help build our livestock rescue facilities, please contact us to arrange a time to meet and discuss specifics. Brass sponsorship plaques will be placed for all sponsors.

Small Animal Adoption Facility Sponsorships are also needed.

WE GENUINELY APPRECIATE YOUR INTEREST & SUPPORT

PURRS, LICKS, WHINNIES & HUGS! ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX EXEMPT

MHF PO Box 1238 Middleburg, VA 20118

(540) 364-3272 www.middleburghumane.com

Let the Word Go Forth

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By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

charity, compared to the 4.7 percent national average.

“That’s a real stumper given the economic power of our county,” Owen said. “In Middleburg, it’s 8.8 percent. I think the overall number is low for a series of reasons. Lack of awareness of local needs, people are so involved in commuting, their jobs, taking care of their families, they’re just not that aware. We’re always working to get the word out.”

That also includes a recent name change.

Instead of the Piedmont Community Foundation, it will now be called the Community Foundation of Loudoun and Northern Fauquier, the better for the public to understand its geographic boundaries.

“Some people might have been confused,” Owen said. “If you look at the Piedmont, that could stretch all the way to Georgia. To say Loudoun and Northern Fauquier, it just resonates.”

There also have been discussions about having the local foundation eventually be affiliated with a neighboring community foundation, bringing greater efficiencies to work in Loudoun and Northern Fauquier. Both organizations are now looking into how that would impact each of them.

Owen said if that does occur, no matter what, “we would retain our local name, our local leadership and our local grant-making.

The advantage would be that it would help lower the overhead, require only one audit, one tax form. Nothing would change for our local

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hen Amy Owen first arrived in Middleburg in May, 2012 as the new executive director of the Piedmont Community Foundation, one potential donor told her she thought the PCF was designed to accept gifts and then make all decisions on awarding grants to worthy causes.

Not so, Owen told her.

“Our message is that each fund made by a donor also means it’s their vision and their decision where those funds should go,” Owen said. “Sometimes it’s hard to explain what a Community Foundation does. It takes a lot of exposure. It’s also so beneficial for attorneys and CPAs to understand the efficiency they can bring to their clients by using us.”

The PCF, now 15 years old, is clearly starting to get out that message. Under Owens’ highly competent watch, assets have doubled to $2 million, with an ever-increasing list of potential donors knocking on community foundation office doors in either Middleburg or Leesburg.

“This is still an emerging community foundation,” Owen said. “At one of the first training sessions I ever went to, a panel discussion by one of the executive directors began with a joke.

She said ‘your mom will never understand what

you do, but she’ll still love you anyway.’”

Organizations like 100 Women Strong, The Middleburg Film Festival and many other individuals completely understand PCF’s mission.

So does another intriguing and inspiring donor, the Smashing Walnuts Foundation.

Now under PCF advisement, the walnut is a reference to the size of a brain tumor diagnosed in Gabriella Miller of Leesburg several years ago. So sadly, the 10-year-old died last year, and in her memory, the Smashing Walnuts Foundation was started to help fund cancer research.

“Rather than starting their own private foundation, they came to us and we were able to help them get going right away,” Owen said. “Their fund holds close to $300,000 and we’ve made over $100,000 in grants from the fund.”

In her almost 2 1/2 years on the job, Owen said she’s been somewhat surprised to learn that of the 400 charities in the PCF’s Loudoun and Northern Fauquier footprint, “you could count on two hands the total number of fulltime staff dedicated to fundraising for those organizations.

“The other surprise is that there are many individual family foundations, but not any bridges that would connect between them to be more collaborative. They don’t talk to each other. And that’s something we can help them do.”

In a recent “State of Community Philanthropy” presentation prepared by Owen, it was determined that the average household in the county contributes 3.3 percent of its income to

M i d d l e b u r g

on the Value of a Community Foundation

Amy Owen

donors or our fund-holders. Our staff support would continue and the board will continue.”

Meanwhile, one big change is coming in 2015. As mandated by its by-laws, Brad Davis, president of the board over the last nine years, will be succeeded by Kirsten Langhorne, a Leesburg businesswoman. A devoted dynamo himself who played a huge role in the foundation’s success, Davis will stay on the board in an emeritus capacity.

“Brad has done amazing work,” Owen said.

And clearly, so has she. n

Because “What

I Want to Be When I Grow Up” Changes Daily

Because a great education is not just about what they learn. It’s about who they become.

November 2014

Grades JK-8 | Join us for our upcoming Information Session, Tuesday, November 18th at 9:00am.

•

We invite you to visit our unique village-style campus in Middleburg, VA to find out more. TheHillSchool.org

www.middleburglife.net

Childhood is about trying on lots of different ideas, identities and interests. The Hill School’s academic and co-curricular programs let each child explore every subject and activity, so they can find out where they excel, and appreciate where others do. Through every lesson, we encourage the development of strong character, self-confidence, a sense of community and a love of lifelong learning.

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M i d d l e b u r g

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ML JUST IN AND JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FROM DENMARK ANTON BERG CHOCOLATE LIQUEUR BOTTLES FROM GERMANY BRANDY AND GRAND MARNIER FILLED BON BONS FROM SWEDEN CHOCOLATE COVERED MARZIPAN DALA HORSES FROM SCOTLAND WALKERS SHORTBREAD SCOTTIE DOG “COOKIES” FROM SWITZERLAND TERRY’S CHOCOLATE ORANGES PLUS OUR GRAND TRUFFLES AND OUR HOME STYLE CHOCOLATES

The Chocolate Seller at

Wisdom Gallery 540-687-3909 10 South Madison Street

November 2014

Our breathtaking 265-acre estate features 18 elegant guest rooms in six private guest residences. Enjoy fine dining in our award-winning French restaurant. Breathe in the natural beauty of the Goodstone estate!

•

CORPORATE MEETINGS • WEDDINGS • SPECIAL EVENTS

www.middleburglife.net

Oct. 2014 Middleburg Life Ad_Layout 1 9/24/14 7:34 PM Page 1

Now open! Playa Cativo Lodge, Goodstone’s elegant beachfront sister property nestled in the Costa Rican rainforest. Visit www.PlayaCativo.com.

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Goodstone. The Good Life.

36205 SNAKE HILL ROAD, MIDDLEBURG, VA 20117 540.687.3333 / WWW.GOODSTONE.COM

A L O U D O U N D E S T I N AT I O N R E S TA U R A N T

free. And if you need a football fix, lots of comfort food, including turkey sandwiches, will be available in the Gold Cup Wine Bar. The Middleburg Library has several November events, including a Library Lab “Going Coastal” Nov. 19 at 3 p.m. for all junior mapmakers from kindergarten to fifth grade. Can you turn a flat map into a sphere? Take a spin around the world of globes and create your own paper lantern globe.

Photographer Redmond Manierre will be featured in a “meet the artist” session Nov. 15 at 2 p.m. And on Nov. 22 at 2 p.m., there will be a look at the work of Jasper Johns, the great American abstract expressionist.

On the November arts front, the Byrne Gallery in Middleburg will be featuring the work of ac-claimed Russian artist Yuri Gorbachev, the nephew of the former leader of the old Soviet Union, through Dec. 28 to celebrate the gallery’s 19th anniversary.

Gorbachev creates colorful, richly textured canvasses in oil and gold that are exhibited in dozens of galleries and more than 20 museums worldwide.

There will be a special reception to honor him on Nov. 8 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the gallery.

The Middleburg Arts Project will have an exhibit called “Wild, Wicked and Wondrous,” with a preview night Nov. 7 from 5-8 p.m. and a meet the artists session Saturday, Nov. 8 from 1-6 p.m. Fea-tured artists include Judith Thompson, Robert Cole and Bill Jonas and the exhibit will run through Nov. 30.

The Grace Church concert series in The Plains will continue on Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. with a performance by the brilliant young cellist, Sebastian Baverstam. Acknowledged as a leading virtuoso of his generation, he has appeared internationally as he Middleburg Community a recitalist and concert soloist. Tickets are $25, and Center has a full Thanksgiving $15 for students, www.gracetheplains.org. month plate, including a concert A community Thanksgiving service open to on the steps on Nov. 7 with highly- one and all will be held at the Upperville Baptist regarded Loudoun musician Gary Church on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. The Smallwood. The event is free and church is located at 9070 John S. Mosby Highway open to the public and runs from 5-8 p.m. in Upperville.

The next day, the center will have an open There will be fancy new and classic cars on house for anyone looking to rent the facility for display at the Hill School’s Concours d’Elegance wed-dings or whatever, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 15, not to mention a chance to win a new That evening, a session on healthy eating for the automobile in a raffle, with the winner announced during the exhibition at 1 p.m. The winning ticket holder can get a new car valued up to $25,000 from the Pohanka auto dealerships, and the school will even pay the taxes. Only 2,500 tickets will be sold, increasing your odds. Tickets can be purchased at the school’s website at www.thehillschool.org.

Highland School over in Warrenton will hold its “Highland for the Holidays” gift bazaar at Photo courtesy of Byrne Gallery the school on Nov. 23. There Yuri Gorbachev will be more than 35 merchants offering their wares, with holidays will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., with a a $5 admission fee that will benefit the Fauquier $15 admission. And on Nov. 20, Loudoun Parks Free Clinic and Fauquier Family Shelter. and Recreation will use the building for its eighth Of course it’s never too soon to talk Christannual Thanksgiving Dinner from 6-8 p.m.. The mas, especially Christmas in Middleburg on cost is $20 per family and for reservations, call 540- Saturday, Dec. 6. Highlights include Breakfast 687-6375 by Nov. 18.

With Santa and a silent auction at the Middleburg And speaking of Turkey Day events, SalaCharter School from 8 to 10:30 a.m., the Hunt and mander Resort & Spa will hold its five-kilometer Hounds Review at 11 a.m. and the parade extravaTur-key Trot (or walk) on Thanksgiving Day, ganza, with more than 85 different attractions with registration at 8 a.m. inside the resort. It’s a starting at 2 p.m. great way to justify all those calories that can be And even as we speak, the Middleburg consumed at a five-course dinner being served at Garden Club is preparing for its holiday standard the resort’s Harri-mans Restaurant from noon to flower show, greens sale and bazaar with the theme 8 p.m. Cost is $95 per person, with a wine pairing “A Little Christmas Music” on Friday, Dec. 5 from available for an addi-tional $35.

2-5 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 The same day, there will be a Thanksgiving p.m.at Emmanuel Church Parish Hall. In addition Family Feast in the resort ballroom, with seating to wreaths and greens for sale, the bazaar will offer times also from noon to 8 p.m. The cost is $79 for seasonal decorative crafts and gourmet items made adults and $31 for children, with kids under six by club members. n

What’s going on?

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tor of Standard Oil, founder of the Corn Products Refining Company, and a pillar of the Westport, Connecticut community. She grew up on her family’s 17-acre estate. Her grandfather was a leading benefactor of the area, and established a tradition of community presence and support maintained by generations of Bedfords, including Ruth.

She led a life of learning, sport, and service. She took naturally to her family’s interest in horses, becoming an accom-

plished rider and eventually an owner of racehorses that won races at Belmont, Saratoga, and other east coast tracks, under the family’s Nyala Farms name.

She also became a skilled sailor, golfer, tennis player, and aviatrix, and as an adult could frequently be sighted skimming a seaplane along Long Island Sound.

Bedford remained an active and engaged member of her community into her 90s, watching young riders almost daily, spending time with friends and

her beloved dogs. As described by her friends, she was “generous, unpretentious, with a zest for life, a beautiful smile and laugh, and an interest in everybody around her no matter their position in society. And she also loved a glass of scotch.”

The original story of her gift first broke in The Washington Post, and the reporter, Middleburg area native T. Rees Shapiro, scooped his own parents, who edit and write for Middleburg Life. Good for him. Better for Foxcroft. n

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uth Bedford died last June at the age of 99, but her experience as a student at Foxcroft School more than 80 years ago led to a lifetime love affair with the all-girls preparatory school that was consummated last month with a donation of $40 million. It doubled Foxcroft’s endowment with what Head of School Cathy McGehee described as a “transformational gift.”

Bedford’s grandfather, Edward T. Bedford, was a direc-

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For Foxcroft, the Gift of a Lifetime

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Photos courtesy of Foxcroft School and Constance Anstett

To our Middleburg Friends & Neighbors . . . . . . for 100 years of partnership and support.

We invite you to come Celebrate

our Centennial Saturday, April 26 (9am - 3pm).

www.middleburglife.net

Thank You!

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Revisit history with a Drill demonstration by Foxcroft Corps alumnae, along with the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps (2pm)!

Foxcroft School

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22407 Foxhound Lane

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Middleburg, VA 20118

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www.foxcroft.org

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For more information, call 540.687.4510

November 2014

Tour the campus – including our award-winning “green” dormitory n Attend mini-classes taught by Foxcroft faculty n Enjoy student musical performances Observe riding lessons and visit the stables n Experience a virtual art show n Plus: Two-mile Fun Run through campus (8am) and

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Orange County Hounds Team Chase Photos by Crowell Hadden

Alex Orfinger and Josh Carin

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he Orange County Hounds Team Chase-an adaptation of the English team chase event-took place recently at Old Whitewood in The Plains.

Ann and Jimmy Jordan Arla Louis and Cheree Nickole

Della, Shauney and Binta Brown

Trophy table

Catherine Brntzel

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N A po vr iel m , b2 e0r1 32 0 1 4

Jane and Andrew Bishop

Robin Strom, Kathy Broaddus, Kitty Dove and Meridith Park

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Kaitlin Sissler and Gunner

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

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hen Harper Northrup was in Kindergarten at The Hill School, she often was so shy she hid behind the piano when it was time for her class to get on stage to perform in the “Spring Sing” at Grandparent’s Day. Fast forward eight years, and the same student played Dorothy, the lead in the eighth grade production of the Wizard of Oz last year, with a boffo performance that drew nightly standing ovations from an appreciative audience.

Harper is now a first-year student at Foxcroft, but she still returns to her theatrical roots at Hill to help out behind the scenes for productions. Many other students who have experienced Hill’s outstanding drama program have done the same over many years, happy to help backstage with lighting, sound, scenery, and costumes.

Over the last seven years, Raven OwenBeyer has been the multi-tasking impresario who teaches drama at Hill and directs the plays and musicals. And Karen Chase, a gifted singer and classically trained musician, teaches every student in the school on a weekly basis. She’s the musical director of the yearly eighth grade

production and works closely with OwenBeyer. The entire student body comes together to showcase their choral talent at the annual Spring Sing, and individuals get a chance to shine at the all school Talent Show and seventh and eighth grade concert.

Unlike some public school systems, where budget issues have often decimated music, art, and drama, Hill has always made it a significant priority in its curriculum at every grade level.

Before Owen-Beyer joined the faculty, Tom Sweitzer ran the drama program for 15 years with the same productivity and passion as his successor. Sweitzer now runs A Place to Be in Middleburg, where he uses music therapy and the arts to help his students and their families navigate and overcome life’s challenges.

He’s also one of Owen-Beyer’s biggest fans.

“She is creative, and she’s really innovative,” he said. “One of my favorite things about her is that she’s always thinking outside the box.”

It also helps to have one of the finest facilities in all the land with the Sheila C. Johnson Performing Arts Center. The parent of two Hill alumni, Paige ’00 and Brett ‘04, Johnson is an accomplished musician herself and owner of the Salamander Resort & Spa. She not only was instrumental in funding and helping plan a state-of-the-art theater, she also provided a $2 million endowment to ensure the program

always loved working with children, and here was a job where I could create, have creative license and would direct them. And working with students can be so much more rewarding in a lot of ways than working with adults.”

In 2007 former head of school Tom Northrup initially hired her to work in Hill’s Team and Teen Saturday program, and not long after that she joined the faculty full-time.

“What we liked about her was her passion for the theater, her ability to relate to the children and adults,” Northrup said. “She had a commitment to excellence and a willingness to even work after hours to make the shows go well. She’s just done a fantastic job.”

Owen-Beyer was also thoroughly impressed with the school’s overall commitment to its drama program.

“They put a lot of importance on it,” she said. “All the rehearsals are held during the school day. The other teachers always cooperate with whatever we need. At Hill, students can play lacrosse and they also can be in the play.

They don’t have to choose one or the other. At Hill, we don’t just say what we do is important, we show it.”

The theater itself also contributes to that philosophy.

“I’m biased,” she said, “but I feel like it’s one of the hearts of the school. The school gathers there for assemblies at least once a week, we put on all the productions there. Getting to see the whole school gather there is really lovely.”

Starting in third grade, every class puts on its own production. The older students have been doing a version of St. George and the Dragon for over 40 years. And the eighth grade offers the yearly piece de resistance with a Broadway musical.

This year it will be Fiddler on the Roof, open to the public from Nov. 21-23, a reprise of the show put on by Hill’s Class of 2001, with Chris Aldrich in the main role. Aldrich is an aspiring actor himself, appearing in a number of productions around the Washington area and currently doing graduate work in theatre at Sarah Lawrence College.

When she first arrived in the area, OwenBeyer also appeared in the occasional play or musical. But with an 18-month toddler, she now seems thoroughly content to focus on teaching and directing all those plays.

“A lot of children think they can’t get a good part because they have an idea of what kind of voice you need, or what kind of look you have to have,” Owen-Beyer said. “I always tell them it’s not about that. It’s all about who is willing to have fun with it. The reason a play is called a play is because you’re playing. Now, you’re just doing it for an audience.”

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Raven Owen-Beyer works with cast members from Fiddler on the Roof

would thrive for years.

“One of Sheila’s visions for this theater is that children would feel comfortable being on stage,” said Treavor Lord, Hill’s Head of School.

“It’s been a transformational gift for us, a distinguishing feature of the school we offer to every child. We strongly believe in giving all children meaningful experiences in the co-curricular program— this includes drama, as well as art, music, and athletics.

“The intimate scale of the theatre is ideal for our students. They find they can do things up there they had no idea they could do. Raven is outstanding in bringing out the best of everyone, whether they’re in a major role or a minor role. They can all feel success.”

Hill Board of Trustees President Tim Harmon also is a firm believer in offering students a wide variety of choices, the better to expose them to subjects, experiences, and situations they’ve never encountered before.

“I believe a school needs to be like a sampler platter in a restaurant,” he said. “Children don’t really know what they like or they don’t like. When my daughter Meghann went to Hill, field hockey was mandatory in sixth grade. She said she really didn’t like it. By the time she was in eighth grade, it was one of her favorite sports. Exposure to drama is also important.

And when they do that eighth grade play, it’s the whole class together, everyone participates.

It’s one of those real bonding events.”

Owen-Beyer saw that success first-hand when she first came to Middleburg to visit her now husband Scott Shupe, who assists in music and drama as well as teaching and coaching athletics. She saw a production of Once Upon a Mattress and “it was a little mind-blowing.

I couldn’t believe the theater, which spoke for itself—the lighting, the sets, the costumes.”

At the time, she had been living in New York and trying to become a professional actress herself. That involved working as a waitress to pay the rent, dashing to auditions and occasionally landing parts.

“One day, Scott called and said there was a position opening up to teach drama,” she said. “I’d been to the school and loved it. From my own experience as a public school student in Georgia, I was actually quite amazed. I’ve

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The Play’s The Thing for Hill School’s Drama Program

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APPOINTED...

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eggie Cooper has been appointed the new general manager of Salamander Resort & Spas here in Middleburg.

Cooper joins the 168-room resort, founded by Sheila Johnson, after a notable hospitality management career that includes nearly a decade spent as managing director of Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts.

Prior to Canyon Ranch he spent nine years at Topnotch Resort and Spa in Stowe, Vermont as president and general manager.

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Photo by Douglas Lees

he James Peyton Atkins Memorial “War Between The States” Scholarship certificate was recently presented at the Mosby Heritage Area Association Civil War Conference. Childs F. Burden, President of the MHAA; Anya Parks, Wakefield School; Cody Eldredge, Hill School; James Atkins. The awards to Anya and Cody were presented by the MHAA.

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heila Harrell and Valerie Dove stopped at the Chinn Lane Yard Sale.

Proceeds went to the building fund at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. Photo

by Sophie Scheps

Photo courtesy of the WIHS

by Lindsay Brock

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ouise Whitner, 12, was honored during the Washington International Horse Show with the Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship donated by Vicki Lowell. The trophy was given in memory of trainer Laura Pickett, who lost her fight against breast cancer at age 52.

The award is presented to an “up and coming” rider who exhibits enthusiasm and good horsemanship. Louise, a seventh grader at Hill School, rides in the Pre-Childrens division on 15.1 hand Van Gogh, and trains with Marti Bigley and Robin Anderson at Merry Point Farm in Unison. In addition, a $7,500 check was presented to charity partner Capital Breast Care Center as part of the show’s Buck Breast Cancer Benefit.

A HUNT BREAKFAST: AT ARDARRA

www.middleburglife.net

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November 2014

Orange County Hounds hosted by Susanne Lamb and Viviane Warren.

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Viviane Warren and Susanne Lamb

Betsy Manierre and Robert Boucher

The Orange County Hounds recently met at Ardarra followed by a hunt breakfast hosted by Susanne Lamb and Viviane Warren.

Robin and Gayden Parker

Will Driskill, Lisa White, Pamela White, Wagner White and Chip White

John Coles, Susanne Lamb, John Shurberg and Katherine Berger Trevor Potter

ALL BETTER

HIGHLAND

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ranny Kansteiner and Ali Pejacsevich, the dynamic duo behind Warm Love Productions, recently hosted a “Music and mojitos” evening to kick off the shopping season at their Art & Lifestyle Collections holiday pop up shop.

Hurst Groves, Mary Ann Gibbons, Lena Scott and Charles Turner enjoy a reception following a concert by The Treble Choristers of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue of New York City at Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains. Photo by Enid Adams

Photos by Sophie Scheps

Skip Glascock, chairman of the Marshall Community Center’s Advisory Committee recently recognized outstanding contributors to the center in its first annual Impact Awards, which took place as part of their 25th Anniversary event. Recipients were Tina Brooks in honor of her late mother Peggy Carter, and William Skinker of Marshall.

PARTNERSHIP

WAKEFIELD

Sally Hosta and Mary Catlett

Hester Warr and Chet Fannon

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Kim Hurst, Jane Bishop and Franny Kansteiner

Natalie Epstein and Will Coleman

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Peter Pejacsevich and Alex Vogel

Michael McGettigan and Andrew Bishop

November 2014

rom Wakefield School, Middleburg Life has learned that Head David Colón has returned from China to finalize a partnership with a Chinese school and attend a forum focused on international school partnership projects.

Wakefield’s new sister school, the Xuzhou #1 Middle School, is located in Xuzhou in Jiangsu Province. The school is for high school grades 10-12 and can trace its origins back to 1721. It has a focus on international exchanges and and cooperation. Colón also traveled to Zhenjiang in the Jiangsu Province for the 10th Annual Jiangsu International Forum for School Principals: “School Partnerships: Sharing the Dream. “ Colón also visited Beijing to explore partnership possibilities with the prestigious British Harrow School’s Beijing campus.

“One of the most obvious advantages of such travel is to create student exchanges, both short and long-term. Not only will our students be able to visit China, but we will be able to host students from China here. This allows us to essentially bring China to Wakefield,” Colón said.

www.middleburglife.net

ighland School in Warrenton recently recognized their 85th year. “It’s important that we celebrate not only our past, but our future as well,” said Head of School Hank Berg. “The leadership from within our community is critical to both parts of that success.” During the ceremony, Tim Dunn, chairman of the board, also announced that Berg was offered and accepted a new four-year contract. “We’re delighted that the school will remain under his guidance and leadership at least through June, 2018,” said Dunn.

During the event, two of the most significant people in the school’s history were recognized: Marshall Doeller and Paul Rice. Both men were elected Trustee Emeriti for the term commencing July, 2014. The Trustee Emeritus program recognizes past board members.

Doeller, a Highland alum (1967), served on the Board of Trustees from 1992-2004, and was chairman from 19972004. He led the board during a time of change, including the development of the upper school and the Center for the Arts.

He and his wife, Lee, volunteered in countless ways and their two daughters are also Highland graduates.

Rice served on the board from 20042012, including six years as chairman. He was instrumental in upgrading facilities, completing a highly successful Capital Campaign and improving programs. He also was a major factor in the completion of the Center for the Arts and is the namesake for The Rice Theater. Paul and his wife, Gin, two daughters also graduated from Highland.

“Tradition anchors us in rituals that remind us of our core values,” said Berg.

“Ceremonies designed to connect us to those who came before, experiences that all students have in common, and community customs serve to bind Highland together across time. It is remarkable to me that Highland’s founders, Lavinia Hamilton and Dorothy Rust, understood key elements in a great education that are still relevant more than 80 years later.”

On a Chilly Evening

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CELEBRATE

Love Warm

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n injured bald eagle was found in a yard in Lovettsville in early September, lying on the ground with vultures all around. Loudoun County Animal Services took him to the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center for specialized veterinary care in Millwood. He needed treatment for trauma to his head and chest, was given antibiotics and pain medications and was hand-fed until he was strong enough to eat on his own. After six weeks, he’s made a full recovery and was scheduled for release in early November from the National Convention Center on the Potomac.

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Contemplating Peace in The Plains

Photos by Leonard Shapiro

By Lilla Ohrstrom For Middleburg Life

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members attended, along with some of the kids who serve as mentors. APTB is one of the most beautiful places around. Their space is small, but it’s beautiful on the inside.

They do wonderful things, including expressive arts for special needs children and coaching and fabulous theatrical performances. There also is a lunch bunch that has become a community gathering place for adults with challenges.

Spending an hour with this group can only brighten your day. Watching one of their performances will draw tears and open your heart. The love and caring, and the results of the love and caring are truly remarkable.

There have been countless examples of the progress being made with the support of APTB and its dedicated staff. People with traumatic brain damage, heretofore unable to stand or speak, get up and sing and dance. Children who never spoke a word can now sing a solo. Kids who were teased Not A Warrior by Lilla Ohrstrom or bullied now are able to shine on stage. The emphasis on compassion and acceptance are palpable.

Sometimes when I am with these children, I feel as if they have a higher purpose, and we

ontemplating Peace” was an important event for Youngblood Art Studio. We gathered in The Plains recently to validate the efforts of people taking the time to be peaceful. We encouraged not only our artists, but everyone to stop and take the time to look at the world around us.

Perhaps there were a few things you might have missed. Aside from myself, we had two artists, both men, who have had led very different lives.

There was Michael Heufelder, with a life of military service that demanded extreme focus, vigilance, structure and courage.

Gomer Pyles, had a far less structured life of foot travel, exploration, acceptance, discovery, and also courage.

The show was set up so that Michael and Gomer each had three walls to display their work, and they met on each side. The two met at a mutual chair series of photographs they had each taken. They ended by meeting again at their pictures of sunsets.

For me the chairs reflected a place to sit and think or stop and be. The sunsets reflected the universal light we all can relate to.

The images, all in the theme of peace, were ones that we could all recognize as peace. They are there for each of us regardless of our politics and personal beliefs.

We share commonalities that are profoundly similar.

While Gomer has lived the life of a free spirit, his father earned Barry and Laurie Starke with Charley Matheson purple hearts in World War II. One medal was beautifully displayed in two joined ought to be learnhands carved in driftwood. Gomer once had trav- ing from them. eled on foot from Los Angeles to the east coast with APTB offers a his partner and their baby daughter thirty years ago. place to feel safe, He had faith in his heart that things would work something we all need. out, and that trek took tremendous courage.

It’s also so Michael served in the Special Forces in Iraq and to Afghanistan for seven years in the front line of duty. important He also helped rebuild Turkish villages that had take the time to been destroyed and experienced a hell on earth and reflect on beauty, in whatever form experienced what many never recover from.

His ability to survive and rise above the horror that comes, and he witnessed is astonishing, and he has the wisdom to find peace in to know that he now needs to heal. Part of that our hearts. By process involves capturing peaceful moments with finding peace in his I-phone. He takes the time to stop, look and be. ourselves, we can He also focuses for hours doing his wood burnings help others. By helping others, we of animals.

A Place To Be was well represented at the exhibi- find peace in ourLilla Ohrstrom tion. Kim Tapper, Tom Sweitzer and several board selves. n

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Gomer Pyles with his handmade walking stick

Jiamie Pyles and Vickie Atkins

Tom Sweitzer and artist Michael Heufelder

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an a-maze-ing

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FALL AFTERNOON

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Then there’s the slide

There are many fun things to do

Photos by Crowell Hadden

A mini maze

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Pumpkins galore

April, 2013

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How about a spider web?

An obstacle course presents some challenges

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Riley, with the flag, and Emma continue through the maze

www.middleburglife.net

November 2014

he Corn Maze in The Plains recently celebrated 15 years of thrills and occasional chills. As the original corn maze in the greater Washington area, the large interactive maze design changes every year. The five-acre topographic challenge this year has the theme “Hooowl I Ever Get Out?!!!,” and included a giant wolf howling at the moon etched into it. Many thanks to Kate and Hub Knott for allowing Hill School students (and sisters) Riley and Emma Wick to take the challenge. The maze will be open until Nov. 9 and if you missed it, mark your calendars now for next year.

For more information www.CornMazeinthePlains.com.

And finally, Riley and Emma complete the maze

Emma and Riley take a break in the big chair

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FI N E P RO P E RT I E S

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

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ProPerties in Hunt Country PresQU’isle

liBerTY hall

10 s. madison sT.

Sited on a knoll near the confluence of the Rappahannock and Hazel Rivers and surrounded by large tracts of farmland, this restored example of exquisite woodwork and plaster ceiling medallions is extremely rare. High ceilings, Flemish Bond 20" thick brick walls, and large airy rooms will be a decorator's delight. Two large barns, 135 acres, several tenent houses are a pallet upon which to create a masterpiece. $1,865,000

c.1770--PriCe redUCTion plus $10,000 Bonus to selling agent, paid at settlement. Historic Quaker stone home overlooking spectacular Paris Valley amidst thousands of acres of protected land. The stone exterior has been meticulously restored, two stunning stucco additions plus a grand porch added. New well & 4 bedroom septic installed. Create your own interior. Possible owner financing. $1,800,000

TUrn-KeY BUsiness: Stunning upscale gift shoppe in the center of Middleburg's Commercial District! Sales price includes real estate, business & inventory. Approx. 1/2 of inventory is offsite & included in sale. Wonderful opportunity for a true "turn-key business" in the heart of Virginia's horse & wine country. With the opening of Salamander Resort & Spa, and The Annual Film Festival, this is a tremendous location! $1,400,000

susie ashcom (540) 729-1478

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Bedlam

Wind in The WilloWs farm w

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Turnkey horse farm with c. 1800’s fully renovated 5 bedroom/4 bath traditional VA farm house on 23+ acres in Blue Ridge Hunt. Light filled Kitchen, Living Room, Dining Room, Library, Separate Office, 1st Floor Master Bedroom, Hardwood floors, 4 fireplaces, finished lower level. Covered Patio off Kitchen, 5 stall barn with feed & tack room & 2nd floor Studio. 4 fenced paddocks and great ride out. $973,000

Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201 hhs

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rein duPont (540) 454-3355

www.middleburglife.net

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Turnkey horse farm on 11+ acres with charming 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Cape Cod style house with new carpet, updated kitchen & baths, fresh paint & all new windows.

1st floor Master, Fam. Room off Kitchen, Dining Room & Mudroom with Sep. entrance. 5 stall center aisle barn with tack room and wash area. Machine shed, Garden Shed, Run-in Shed & fenced paddocks. Deluxe chicken coop. Easy access to both Routes 7 & 50. $689,000

Very nice home with a contemporary flair, built in 1992. 8.12 acres and a mostly wooded parcel with spacious front yard with mature flowering trees, the home has 3 Bedrooms, 3 Fullbaths, vaulted ceilings, large windows, a spacious deck, balcony off second level Master bedroom, great light throughout, a 3 car garage and partially finished basement. Very private. $369,000

Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

Barrington hall (540) 687-7701

land

UPPerVille

roUTe 50 - 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 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

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Super attractive Tenant house on large farm. Very private and quiet. Ovely 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) 454-3355

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.

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November 2014

Lovely three Bedroom, two Bath home with splendid established flowering gardens, ponds, views and privacy. Surrounded by land in VOF easements. High ceilings, fireplaces, long private drive. This is elegant old Virginia living at it’s best, yet very convemient to schools, shops and restaurants. $3500/mo With barn & paddocks for 2 horses: $4100/mo

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edmonds lane - Rare 3.5 acre parcel at base of Blue Ridge Mountains on road leading to Sky Meadows State Park! Build your dream home within walking distance to 1,800+ acres of preserved parkland with trailhead to the Appalachian Trail. Open, cleared land with stunning mountain views. Stone walls. Minutes to Delaplane, Upperville, Middleburg, etc. EZ access to I-66 & Rte. 50.

45 min. to Dulles, 1 hr to DC. $290,000

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rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Susie Ashcom Cricket Bedford Catherine Bernache John Coles Rein duPont Cary Embury Barrington Hall Sheryl Heckler Julien Lacaze Anne V. Marstiller

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.

Brian McGowan Jim McGowan Mary Ann McGowan Andrew Motion Rebecca Poston Emily Ristau Alex Sharp* Ashleigh Cannon Sharp* Jayme Taylor Becky Templeman