Middleburg Life for March 2014

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Historic Garden Week, April 27 & 28 PHOTO BY MISSY JANES

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Mimi Abel-Smith Opens her garden at Hickory House for

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ROBIN CIRCLE, LEESBURG, VA - 3.54 acres w/ indoor pool, sports pub, racquetball ct, home theaters, 2, 2 car garages, & caretakers apartment. $1,765,000 • LO8175796 Peter Pejacsevich Scott Buzzelli HERITAGE FARM, PATRICKSWELL LANE MARSHALL, 540-270-3835 540-454-1399 VA - Fantastic opportunity. Rarely available large parcel. 296 Acres. Zoned RA. Potential Easement Credit. 3 tenant houses. Large Pond. This is 3 separate parcels, 6071-09-6237, 6071-28-8393,6072-00-7650. Heritage Farm is a perfect hard asset investment and offers the potential of an incredible tax benefit. $6,364,000 Scott Buzzelli Peter Pejacsevich 540-454-1399 540-270-3835

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BEAVERDAM BRIDGE, MIDDLEBURG, VA - Custom stucco home on 10.88 acres. 3 car garage w/ apart. above, pool, and only minutes from Middleburg.

1,600,000 • LO8268517 22553 DRESDEN FARM LANE, MIDDLEBURG, VA 20117 Ted Zimmerman 540.905.5874 Dresden Farm now available. This beautifully maintained 115 acre horse farm includes a circa 1785 5 bedroom main house, a 12 stall Belmont barn with 8 paddocks, heated waterers, a new generator and a separate tack room. There are 4 additional dwellings (including newly renovated manager’s house and guest house), extensive greenhouses, gardens, a pool, and a 5 acre pond. $3,900,000 • LO7610514

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March 2014 • www.middleburglife.net

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Hunt territory in Middleburg with 63 acres. Completely renovated.

A turnkey horse farm with a 4 bedroom manor stone home with a slate roof, copper gutters, a charming guest cottage. Original pine ED floors, wine UC cellar, entertainment room, expansive master suite and D beautiful gourmet kitchen. 7 stall barn, 4 run in sheds, automatic RE waterers and outdoor riding ring. $3,300,000 Scott Buzzelli Peter Pejacsevich 540-454-1399 540-270-3835

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ALLDER SCHOOL RD, ROUND HILL, VA - 5 bedroom, 4.5 ba 80 acres with a large well stocked pond and gorgeous mtn views. Private, but mins from town. $1,490,000 • LO8263616 36579Pejacsevich MOUNTVILLE RD, MIDDLEBURG, VA - Magnificent historic Peter Scott Buzzelli 540-270-3835 Hunt Country Estate, nestled right in the heart of540-454-1399 the Middleburg

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MARKET ST, LEESBURG, VA - Bright and charming house in downtown historic Leesburg. Stainless steel appliances in eatin kitchen, detached garage. $635,000 • LO8265908 Peter Pejacsevich Scott Buzzelli 540-270-3835 540-454-1399

CHESTNUT COOMBE, PARIS, VA - 2 acre santuary in gated community, 3 finished levels, 4 bdrm, 5 baths. Deck w/ spa.

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40850 ROBIN CIRCLE LEESBURG, VA - Custom-built stone, brick, and cedar estate on 3.54 acres w/ features ROBIN CIRCLE,ideal LEESBURG, VA full - 3.54 w/ indoor pool, and amenities for life style of acres entertaining, leisure, & enjoyment.

Special features include heated indoor pool, & a sports pub, racquetball ct, home theaters, 2, 2 car garages, sports pub,apartment. a regulation racquetball court with•hoop, audio/ caretakers $1,765,000 LO8175796 video system w/ 2 home theaters, rooftop deck, picnic paPeter Scott Buzzelli vilion Pejacsevich w/ gas barbecue, potting shed, 2+ 2-car garages, & 540-270-3835 540-454-1399 caretaker • LO8175796 ORCHARDapartment.

RD, PURCELLVILLE, VA$1,765,000 - Move-in ready Victorian Scott Buzzelli Peter Pejacsevich features gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors, and original chestnut 540-454-1399 540-270-3835 millwork. Stone patio & landscaping. Bus to DC only 3 mins away.

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BEAVERDAM BRIDGE RD, MIDDLEBURG, VA 20117 - Beautiful custom stone and stucco home on 9.38 acres. 4 bedBEAVERDAM BRIDGE, MIDDLEBURG, VA -aCustom rooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms.

Main level bedroom, custom stucco kitchen home on 10.88 3 car garage w/ apart. above, pool, with granite andacres. a breakfast bar. Custom bookshelves, 4 and fireplaces, 3 carfrom detached garage with an upstairs apartment (full only minutes Middleburg.

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Although endurance riding is essentially an individual sport, there is a heavy group component as well.

Riders tend to train, travel and set up together and volunteers “crew” at the compulsory halts during which the vet check determines if the horse is fit to continue. Asked what makes Taylor so well suited to the sport, Waldron replied, “Taylor is always joyful and flexible, which puts her in good stead with those around her and that makes everyone want to help her.”

Taylor competes on Wonder Witch, Waldron’s 16-year-old Arabian mustang. Wonder is known for pulsing down her heart rate quickly, which allows Taylor to leave the compulsory stops early and establish a lead.

Keeping Wonder fit is key. Waldron determines the weekly training schedule. The goal is to prepare Taylor for anything that might arise with nothing left to chance. Taylor trains three to four days each week, including two hard rides. The local terrain and climate are ideal for endurance training. Climbing hills and rocky

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Taylor Stine

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ground and dealing with heat and humidity give Taylor and Wonder an advantage over riders from other regions.

A rainy day does not mean a day off. Waldron said she expects a ride in the proper gear, and if your clothes get wet, you’ve learned what not to wear on race day.

Taylor’s short-term goals are to qualify for the National Young Riders competition and to be chosen for the northeast region’s team this summer.

Taylor admits she has sacrificed a lot. After school and weekend activities with friends are curtailed in order to keep Wonder in top form.

“So far, my hard work and dedication are paying off,” she said. “Having such great encouragement from my friends, family, teachers and everyone at Highland is truly the icing on the cake. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive school to allow me to grow as a rider and as a person.” n

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ighland School sophomore Taylor Stine is making her mark in the endurance riding world. The 16-yearold Rectortown resident recently won an award in the Junior Overall division of the Northeast Region at the Endurance Ride Conference in Atlanta.

The daughter of Chip and Mary Stine, Taylor has found her passion in this lesserknown discipline that requires riders to “traverse marked and measured cross-country trails over natural terrain consisting of a distance of 50 to 100 miles in one day.”

Riders must maintain a keen sense of their pace and their horse’s condition and complete compulsory veterinary checks. In her short career, Taylor has already posted impressive results, completing 380 miles and finishing first in the junior division five times.

Asked how Taylor balances her demanding sport with schoolwork, her mother says, “Taylor’s transition from Hill to Highland last year was seamless.

“We’re grateful the school allowed her riding to fulfill her sports requirement. We appreciate Highland allowing her to pursue her passion and feel fortunate to be a part of its wonderful community.

They’ve been extremely supportive and Taylor is able to manage her course load and make the Honor Roll.”

“Taylor’s commitment to riding is valued at Highland,” said Head of School Hank Berg. “It adds to the diverse talents our students share and her work ethic is inspiring. Taylor adds greatly to the strength of our equestrians here along with fellow students who vault, play polo and show in the hunter and jumper rings at national levels. We strive to support our students who work hard at something, whether in or out of school.”

While Taylor credits her “only child” status for providing the selfreliance she needs to compete in this individual sport, training and experience can mean everything in rides that are both grueling and unpredictable.

She relies on her mentor, veterinarian Jeannie Waldron, a virtual rock star in the world of endurance riding.

Waldron competed in her first ride in 1985 and has completed 6,325 miles of competition, not only winning many races, but setting records, including one in the prestigious Old Dominion 100-miler.

Now recovering from back surgery, she still plans to compete again, but says coaching Taylor has been a fortuitous diversion. She’s trained numerous riders, but none for as long as she’s worked with Taylor.

Based on mutual respect and admiration, their relationship is unmistakably special. In Waldron, Taylor said she has found a generous mentor who is “amazing and the ultimate strategist.”

In Taylor, Waldron has an enthusiastic student “who goes well beyond what I ask of her.”

Moore, Clemens & Co

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Taylor Stine keeps going the Distance

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VICKY MOON

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pam Mickley Albers Cindy Fenton Dulcy Hooper Richard Hooper Betsy Burke Parker Leonard Shapiro Emily Tyler Marcia Woolman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Doug Gehlsen Janet Hitchen Victoria Ingenito Douglas Lees Tracy Meyer Karen Monroe

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March 2014

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112 W. Washington St. P.O. Box 1770 Middleburg,VA 20118 (540) 687-6325

www.middleburglife.net 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.

Don’t miss out on our April issue

Pepper Adds fabulous flavor to Middleburg Design Scene

Space Reservations Due By: TUESDAY, APRIL 1 Copy Due On Or Before: THURSDAY, APRIL 3 Pub date is: MONDAY, April 7 PLEASE CALL 540.687.6325

BARTLETT. BECAUSE EVERY TREE IS A FAMILY TREE. Today, more than ever, property value is as much about your

landscape as it is your home. The trees and shrubs that grow along with you and your family are valuable assets that deserve care and protection. For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives. And Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

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A very regal design by Wendy Pepper

By Dulcy Hooper for Middleburg Life

F

inley Stewart, who went to Hill School and is now a freshman at Mercersburg Academy in Pennsylvania, recently called her mother, Wendy Pepper, to request a special dress for an upcoming dance. In red, please, and could you possibly make a blue one for her friend?

With snow covering the roads and traffic virtually at a stand-still, Pepper nonetheless headed out in search of the right fabric and quickly went to work. Two days later, she delivered two beautiful and very special dresses to Mercersburg: one blue, one red; frothy, flouncy layers with customized touches that she hemmed and put the finishing touches on even while being interviewed for this article.

Pepper has dedicated herself to learning the craft of dressmaking and tailoring, as well as expanding her knowledge about textiles. Starting first in Nepal, she learned how to weave Tibetan carpets in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Returning to the U.S., she studied beading with Native American artists in the Pacific Northwest and later immersed herself in the spinning and knitting traditions of North Carolina, shibori resist techniques from Japan, and Amish quilts of Pennsylvania.

Later, Pepper began to collect vintage sewing manuals and drew inspiration from the old school approach to couture needlework.

In further expanding her knowledge, Pepper recently spent time in Portland, Oregon, studying the techniques of screen printing.

Pepper appeared on the first season of the popular reality television show, “Project Runway,” which aired on Bravo in 2004. She went on to design a limited edition Banana Republic dress that sold out within 24 hours online. Her winning design catapulted her into the finals of Season One, and a solo couture show in Bryant Park in Manhattan in 2005.

Now, after more than 25 years in the fashion

business, Pepper continues to produce one-of-akind fashion creations in her Middleburg studio.

“I don’t want to do mass production,” she said. “I want the people I work with to know that their dress, their event, their experience . . . they all matter to me. I want to make people feel special. When items are mass-produced, something is inevitably lost in translation.”

In a workroom filled with specialized sewing machines, Pepper spoke about the challenges of being “a living artist in a historic place like Middleburg.”

“I have a great deal of respect for the motifs and themes that are important in a community like Middleburg,” she said. “It is such a vibrant and interesting place, and I want to continue to include those aesthetic elements in my art.”

Pepper has expanded her business through exploring the role of pattern and color in artisan cookies (La Cookie Diva). Customers can order her custom cookies and Pepper will work with them on personalized designs.

She is most enthusiastic about her newest endeavor, in which the techniques of digital art, heat transfer and screen printing are used to customize everything from confections, linens, napkins, cards and wallpaper. A toile fabric is currently under production. Using these techniques, Pepper takes vintage images and arranges them in specialized ways. Customers can order a variety of thematic products on the medium of their choice.

“The sewing business is still important to me,” Pepper said. “And I want to expand it. But I don’t want to just sew—I want to take aspects of this culture that I am from and that I love and create vintage images in an updated way, and putting my own twist on it and making it even more special for others.

“You won’t find anyone more steeped in tradition than I am. My grandparents entertained [Franklin D.] Roosevelt at Oatlands. Many generations of my family were from this area. I’m a link to the past, and my art is informed by both my history and my own past.” n

A very Special Place To Make a Movie

W

endy Thompson’s documentary on Latin American immigration— “Harvest of Empire”— drew critical and audience acclaim both nationwide and when it was screened at the Middleburg Film Festival last fall. While searching for her next project, festival director Susan Koch, herself an awardwinning film maker, had an intriguing suggestion.

She urged Thompson to visit “A Place To Be,” the innovative Middleburg school run by multi-talented musician, singer, writer, teacher Tom Sweitzer that describes as its mission “helping people face, navigate and overcome life’s challenges using the therapeutic arts.”

“I was a bit reluctant,” Thompson said. “It’s not really a subject matter I would have chosen because my focus has generally been on social justice issues. But Susan said ‘just go see the school.’

So I spent a day there and fell in love with what they do.”

It didn’t take long for Thompson to decide the place to be for her next film would be “A Place To Be.” She and Koch then partnered to make it a reality, with Thompson producing and Koch directing. They’ve been filming and fundraising ever since for a documentary with the working title of “High Notes” and hope to have a finished product ready for next year’s Middleburg festival, and others, as well.

“The first time I went there, I felt better about

the world when I left,” Koch said. “If we can communicate that in this film, we’ve done our job.”

The film will focus on several beneficiaries of the school’s magnificent work, including Forrest Allen of The Plains, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a snowboarding accident several years ago.

“Just going over the footage from when we started you can see how far he’s come,” Koch said.

“There have been a lot of ups and downs, but it’s truly extraordinary. It’s an amazing family and he’s a special person. You see the power of music to transform lives. You see him first singing, then talking, then articulating. His mother said her biggest fear was that she would never hear his voice again. Now, he and Tom are writing a musical based on his life.”

There are currently 80 students at the school ranging from young children to senior citizens.

Sweitzer and his staff deal with all manner of challenges, from an elderly woman trying to recover from a stroke, to a teenager traumatized by bullying, to another young woman with cerebral palsy.

“Her name is Amy,” Koch said. “I don’t know if I’ve ever met anyone with a more beautiful spirit.

She writes music and sings. It was her 18th birthday, and she had practiced for six months to play “Happy Birthday” on the piano. When she did, it was just a magnificent moment and achievement.”

Thompson and Koch also have been entranced by two little boys, blind brothers, who actually helped to emcee the Middleburg Christmas parade in December, using Braille notes to describe the floats. Both want to be meteo-

rologists when they grow up, and religiously follow—and often mimic—all the weather reports on television.

Thompson is a native of Peru who came to the U.S. 27 years ago and is presiWendy Thompson dent and CEO of the Onyx Media Group and EVS Communications. From 1997 to 2009, she was vice president and general manager of ZGA Broadcast Holdings, an international communications company, supervising the daily operations and advertising sales of 11 Telemundo network affiliates.

Koch’s background was in journalism, working in public television and then as a producer for newsman Roger Mudd. She eventually formed her own production company and began making long-form documentaries. She’s an Emmy and Peabody Award winner with work that has appeared on ABC, NBC, PBS, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, MTV and other national cable networks.

Her documentary, “Kicking It,” focusing on homeless soccer players, drew widespread critical praise.

It was produced by Washington Capitals/ Wizards owner Ted Leonsis, with Middleburg’s Sheila Johnson as executive producer. Johnson, founder and owner of Salamander Resort & Spa, approached Koch about heading up the Middleburg Film Festival, a daunting start-up task.

Susan Koch

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

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

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“I thought Middleburg would be a great place for a festival,” Koch said. “And I loved doing it. In a way, it’s a little like making a film. You try to work with the very best people you can find. Sheila also introduced me to Tom [Sweitzer]. He told me about [A Place To Be] and I said I’d love to come by and see it. Once you go, you’re hooked.”

Both Thompson and Koch are positively passionate about what they believe will be a truly inspiring documentary.

“We hope to give Tom a national platform,” Thompson said. “It’s so important for people to see what they do and to see the power of the arts and music.”

Said Koch, “when people open their lives to you in such a courageous and honest way, it’s our obligation to tell their story and make the best possible film we can.” n

SAVE THE DATE

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Historic Garden Week: Making The Garden Pilgrimage

Photos by Missy Janes

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

G

arden lovers from near and far will come to the Middleburg area April 27-28 to tiptoe through some of the area’s most magnificent grounds.

It’s all part of the 81st Historic Garden Week of Virginia, also known as HGW. It dates back to 1927, when a flower show raised an impressive $7,000 to save some of Thomas Jefferson’s original mulberry trees on the lawn at Monticello.

In 1929, Garden Club of Virginia members invited friends to visit during the last week of April for a “pilgrimage of historic houses and gardens.” The tour lasted 11 days and was the root of the present day event.

This year, 191 private homes and gardens will be featured on 31 separate tours coordinated by 47 member clubs over eight consecutive days with more than 30,000 visitors expected from all over the world. Various clubs throughout the

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The fieldstone house at Hickory House was built in the late 18th century.The farm was part of an early land grant from King George II to Lord Fairfax and was subsequently purchased

by Levin Powell, the founder of Middleburg.

One of the highlights will be the Hickory House just outside the village of Middleburg.

This exquisite setting was part of an early land grant from King George II to Lord Fairfax, which was subsequently purchased by Leven Powell, the founder of Middleburg. While none of the original buildings survive, gravestones dating from the early 1800s still remain along the farm road.

The fieldstone house built in the late 18th century was renovated in 1975 and 2009. Views from the house include the Bull Run Mountains to the east and Blue Ridge Mountains to the west.

The extensive gardens, enjoyed by walking along gentle paths, include the Shade Garden, the Woodland Garden and the Sundial Garden.

This stately temple at Hickory House Farm pro- The Shade Garden features ground covers, vides an elegant shelter for a regal bronze statue perennials, both native and unusual trees and shrubs and, surprisingly, a small temple with a of a peacock. bronze statue of a peacock. state help to decorate the homes with arrange- Across the field from the shade garden ments and 5,730 tulips will be used in almost is the woodland garden, which includes rare as well as drought-resistant ground covers and 2,000 floral arrangements.

This spring’s Middleburg and Upperville ferns. Along its edge is the babbling brook, which “Splendor in the Grass” tour promises to be eye- can be seen from the Sundial Garden, formally popping. There will be four homes to view along planted with annuals, and the Otter Pond Terwith a stop at the National Sporting Library & race. There is also an extensive cutting garden near the stables. n Museum.

They include Gum Tree Farm near UpperTickets in advance are $35 per person ($40 during ville, a working organic farm with a lovely out- the tour) and may be purchased by mail through door sculpture by English artist Nic Fiddian April 22 by sending a check payable to FLGC with a Green; Glenbrook, just outside Middleburg, with stamped, self-addressed legal sized envelope to: Daphne low maintenance native plantings designed to Cheatham (Mrs. John H. III), Middleton, P.O. Box 324, support wildlife and Deerfield Farm in Upper- Middleburg, VA 20118. For information, contact Mrs. Cheatham at dwcheatham@aol.com. ville with a historic brick home built in 1832.

Si

CHRIS MCCARTNEY

F

EUP, INC.

grew up in West Yorkshire, England— a Yorkshire lad—before graduating Edge Hill University in the small Lancashire town of Ormskirk. After college, like most people in Europe, I wanted to travel, but the whole backpacking concept didn’t really appeal to me. So, I decided on travel, life, and work experience all in one with a venture working on cruise ships for three years. It was the best job I could have asked for out of college and it paved the way for my path to call Northern Virginia home.

I E

What brought you to Middleburg?

couldn’t think of a more beautiful place to come to work every day. My wife Kim and I, and our Labrador Retriever, Simon, live nearby in Stone Ridge and just love coming into Middleburg on a weekend.

Tell us about your business and how you got involved.

W

what does it include?

26 e are an independent I.O.# insurance agency and opened in March, 2012.

12.18.13 It’s been a great two years and we are really looking forward to being

What’s the most important unknown thing about you or your business you can share with our readers?

M

ost people may have never heard of Erie, as they don’t spend billions of dollars a year on funny television advertising. They offer such tremendous products. The one I would say that is most unique is their Erie Secure Homeowners. A product that is written with 100 per cent guaranteed replacement cost. I don’t know of another company in the industry that offers that any more. n

In the Kitchen ypical day? No with such thing. If I look at my calendar for tomorrow, I have the inspection the exterior ofT twoylEr new homes we Eofmily Wealth are looking to write. WithPlanning the extremely

TYou Can Build On What’s your typical day like?

Wealth Planning Wealth Planning You Can Build On You Can Build On

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Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA®, Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element)®, and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM © 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CRC561586 NY CS 7737574 11/13

13

March 2014

Just 30 minutes from touchdown to check in at The Salamander Resort

® ® Charles M. Ellison, CIMA,® CPWA® C. Greg Ellison, CPWA 440 Jubal EarlyCIMA, Drive, Suite 260 TheW.CGE Group at Morgan Stanley First Vice President Vice President Winchester, VA 22601 ® ® CharlesAdvisor M. Ellison, CIMA,® CPWA® C. Greg Ellison, CIMA, CPWA Wealth Advisor Financial charles.ellison@morganstanley.com First Vice President Vice President www.morganstanleyfa.com/ellisonellison/ 440 W. Jubal Early Drive, Suite 260 Wealth Advisor Financial Advisor Winchester, VA 22601 charles.ellison morganstanley.com 440 W. Jubal @ Early Drive, Suite 260 www.morganstanleyfa.com/ellisonellison/ Winchester, VA 22601 charles.ellison@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/ellisonellison/

•

BOOKED UP

This is why our family business, The CGE Group at Morgan Wealth planning — that is, theB.integration of lifestyle planning, asset protection — Robert Seaberg, PhD, Wealth Planning ManagingStanley, Director at Morgan Stanley encourages discuss their specific wealth almost planning goals with ustask. in a and wealth families transfer to issues — can seem a daunting, overwhelming Wealth planning — we that is, the of lifestyle asset protection private These conversations along with a the comprehensive wealth plan And thesetting. more assets have, theintegration more complex taskplanning, can seem. and wealth issueswhen — can seem aare daunting, almost overwhelming become even transfer more critical families faced with a transitional period,task. such This is why ourassets family business, The CGE Groupthe at Morgan Stanley, And the more we have, the more complex task can seem. as a significant life event. We can help you plan for these events. encourages families to discuss their specific wealth planning goals with us in a This is setting. why family business, The CGE Group atmore Morgan Stanley, We invite youour and yourconversations family to contact ours toa learn about how we are private These along with comprehensive wealth plan encourages toprotect discuss their specific wealth planning goals with us such in a helping families grow, and transfer become evenfamilies more critical when families arewealth. faced with a transitional period, private setting.life These conversations withfor a comprehensive as a significant event.

We can helpalong you plan these events. wealth plan become more critical when families are faced with a transitional period, such The CGEeven Group at Morgan Stanley We you and family to contact ours to for learn more about how we are as ainvite significant lifeyour event.

We can help you plan these events. ® Charles M. Ellison, CIMA,® CPWA® C. Greg Ellison, CPWAand helping families CIMA, grow, ®protect transfer wealth.

We Vice invitePresident you and your family to contact ours to learn more about how we are First Vice President helping families protect and transfer wealth.

The CGE Group grow, at Morgan Stanley Wealth Advisor Financial Advisor

www.middleburglife.net

Middleburg Memories with Ed Wright

— Robert B. Seaberg, PhD, by Wealth Planning Morgan Stanley “Some of us approach wealth planning leaving itManaging entirelyDirector to theat ‘experts, ’ often not fully understanding what it is they have recommended we do, while Wealth planning — that is, the integration by of leaving lifestyle it planning, asset protection “Some approach entirely the ‘experts, some ofof usus throw up ourwealth handsplanning and do nothing.

Neither way istovery wise. ” ’ and wealth transfer issues — can seem almost overwhelming often not fully understanding what aitdaunting, is they have recommended we task. do, while And theofmore assetsup we have, more complex the Neither task can way seem.

—our Robert B.the Seaberg, Wealth Planning Managing Director at Morgan Stanley some us throw hands andPhD, do nothing. is very wise. ”

April, 2013

m

lease come by and see us, we are in the old Hockman building, across from Middleburg Bank, on the second floor. You can also give us a call at 540-687-4781 or email at Chris@McCartneyinsgrp.com

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P

How does someone contact you?

www.middleburglife.net

ge

cold weather over the last week (as I write this), we had a few customers with burst pipes, so I want to call each of them and make sure the claims are moving forward smoothly. I have two policy reviews with existing customers in the afternoon and then will follow-up on some proposals I sent out last week.

“Some of us approach wealth planning by leaving it entirely to the ‘experts,’ often not fully understanding what it is they have recommended we do, while some of us throw up our hands and do nothing. Neither way is very wise.”

t of

!

LLY!

I

Give us some career highlights so far.

nsurance isn’t the most glamorous profession, but I guess you don’t choose your passions, they choose you. I take great pride in educatver since I moved to Virginia almost 10 ing people about insurance. It is shocking years ago, I’ve worked in the insurance to me how many people call the office and have industry [for a large national carrier]. absolutely no idea what any of the coverages are During those years, I gained great “inside” industry knowledge about the different companies or what they are doing for them. To me, you pay and options out there. When it came to opening a lot of money for insurance over the course of my own agency two years ago, there was only one your lifetime and you should know what it’s doing company I wanted to represent. Every prospective for you! My day is a success if I can have someone customer I spoke to that currently had Erie Insur- end our interaction with them saying that they feel ance either had no intention of ever leaving or, if I informed about insurance and have a better idea did run a quote for them, I could never beat Erie’s of the coverage that best fits their needs. Unfortucoverages and premium. It makes you stand up and nately, in today’s marketplace, insurance is viewed take notice when people always speak so highly of as a bit of a commodity and that couldn’t be furthem. Now I am getting to find out first hand!

I.O.# 26ther from the truth. I believe insurance should be catered to the individual and their family. After all, 12.18.13 When did you start your business and we are protecting their financial future.

de

Ad o ow.

a part of Middleburg and the surrounding community for many years to come. We represent Erie insurance, as well as other great carriers, and provide coverage for auto, home, business and life coverage.

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

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

With Chris McCartney

NC.

RCE

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Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA®, Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element)®, and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM

© 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CRC561586 NY CS 7737574 11/13 ®

M i d d l e b u r g

Historic Sunny Bank

Cream of (Art) Crop at New Dairy Barn Gallery

By Betsy Burke Parker For Middleburg Life

f not for patience, and a touch of stubborn insistence, Middleburg’s Dairy Barn Gallery might not have ever seen the light of day.

Because of the gentle persuasion— and vision—of farm manager Tommy Trail, historic Sunny Bank Farm hosts one of the region’s most innovative art spaces, an iconic treasure northeast of town that has been reinvented, with new life breathed into the 200-year old farm.

The gallery, showplace and party facility opened to great acclaim last fall, and this year there are plans to expand the schedule with shows and exhibits of local, regional and national artists in a variety of media.

For two decades as manager at Sunny Bank, Trail continually needled late farm owner Dorothy “Dot” Smithwick to “do something” about the enormous old dairy parlors just down the hill from the main house. They were filled with junk and practically falling down, Trail said. It would be a sad end to beautiful 1800s milking halls that could benefit from nurture and repurposing.

With its October grand opening, the Dairy Barn Gallery joined a growing group of creative spaces in the region, part of a burgeoning ecotourism draw to still-rural hunt country. The gallery has a full spring and summer’s worth of events scheduled. Local and regional art shows and exhibitions add credibility to Northern Virginia’s reputation as a draw for creative talent.

• www.middleburglife.net

“The space is exquisite,” said Eva Smithwick, who, with husband Speedy, operates Sunny Bank Farm. “We’re thrilled at the reception when (guests) come inside and see what a cool place it is.”

The art and sculpture in the first two shows— the October opening and a December holiday showing—Smithwick called world-class, attracting

BOOKED Hero of the BattleUP of Aldie

Profiled in New Book

last summer,” Lawrence said. “It was such a huge job, but when I started contacting artists and building interest in exhibiting in such a unique space, it was an instant success. The area is enormous. The ceilings are high and the floor space is vast. It feels like a huge industrial renovation—a really cool space. All [the exhibitors] were intrigued when I told them it was an old dairy barn on a Middleburg farm. There was tons of curiosity.”

Art displays at the gallery are a mix—photography, sculpture, classical and modern art. “We’re attracting local and regional talent,” Lawrence said.

“And there’s so much more out there.”

Artists participating in the two 2013 shows included Debbie Cadenas, Donna Clarke, Tony Gill, Charlie Matheson, Winslow McCagg, Tia Maggio, Maggi Morris, Buck Nelligan, John Noffsinger, Nancy Polo, Lisa Strout and Ken Sullins.

Shows are slated this year from April 25-May 4, from May 30-June 7 and from June 21-30, with opening receptions with live music each opening weekend. Future plans include art classes taught by a revolving series of local painters and photographers, and hosting regional school shows. n

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Photo by Betsy Burke Parker

Sunny Bank farm manager Tommy Trail helps mount the artwork.

hundreds to the gallery.

Still, it almost never happened. Speedy’s mother, “Dot” Smithwick, was sure she didn’t have time or energy to renovate the dilapidated pair of milking parlors crumbling below the main house, unused since 1964 and filled with dust and detritus. When she died in 2011, classic car enthusiast and history buff Trail implored Eva and Speedy to let him renovate.

When they agreed, with help from artist Michelle Lawrence, the Smithwicks and daughters Trish and Kathy, Trail envisioned—and executed— the innovative Dairy Barn Gallery.

Junk was removed, floors shored up and as the floor space opened up, the team considered how best to utilize natural light that streamed through dozens of windows. Display panels were built around the original stanchions, and a raised display dais elevated over the center operator pit. The exterior of original terra cotta block was cleared of climbing vines and original galvanized window frames were refurbished. Tongue-andgroove pine ceiling panels were oiled and rubbed to lend a luminous glow to the display area.

“We started planning for [the grand opening]

Middleburg in 1815. The Broun’s daughter Kate Conway Broun married Samuel H. Rogers Fred in 1884 and they operated a commercial dairy farm.

Fred’s daughter Dot Smithwick placed Sunny Bank into conservation easement, protecting over 1,000 acres of the historic property. Dot Smithwick worked the land—today 1,200 acres—as a Thoroughbred training facility and beef cattle operation. After her death in June 2011, Eva and Speedy Smithwick took over and now train steeplechase horses at the farm in addition to hosting the Dairy Barn Gallery.

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March 2014

Middleburg Memories with Ed Wright

In the Kitchen with Emily TylEr

www.middleburglife.net

M i d d l e b u r g

SI

The main house and stables at Sunny Bank were built in the 1820s, on what was originally more than 5,000 acres of fertile, self-supporting farmland. Additional outbuildings and stables were later added.

General Robert E. Lee’s gallant officer’s horse Traveler was, according to historians, bred and raised at Sunny Bank. Accounts of Union raids, requisitioning crops and horses, pepper Civil War books. The twin dairy parlors are undated, but their two-sloped gable roofs—called gambrel—were commonly built throughout East Coast farmland in the mid- to late-19th century.

According to information on Thisishorseracing.com, Sunny Bank Farm was originally settled

by Edwin Conway Broun and wife Catherine Hopkins Broun. He was an attorney who settled in L i f e

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This monument in Aldie marks the spot where Breathed and his artillery men killed over 100 Yankees.

Sunday, March 23rd - 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 24th - 7:00 p.m.

Loudoun County Public Library The Robey Room 220 E. Main, Purceville, VA 540-338-7235

Middleburg Library The Meeting Room 101 Reed Street, Middleburg, VA 540-687-5730

Tuesday, March 25th - 7:00 p.m.

Civil War Historian David Bridges will be in town Gum Springs Library promoting his new historical novel, The Broken CirMeeting Room B cle, the riveting story of Major James Breathed, a doc24600 Mill Spring Drive, Stone Ridge, VA tor turned warrior who fought gallantly for the Con571-258-3838 federacy in Middleburg and throughout Virginia and Books will be available at the event and Maryland. After the presentations, mingle with the can be found on www.amazon.com. author as he signs books and personally chats with guests.

Contact David Bridges at 410-830-9001 or dpbridges@aol.com

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

Art of the

T

he Art of the Piedmont auction and recep-

tion at the Middleburg Community Center on February 21 to benefit

the Middleburg Montessori School was a rousing success raising more than $20,000 for the school. The event drew more than 300 attendees and featured the works of 19 artists, including Gail Guirreri-Maslyk, Dana Volkert, Henry Wingate, Dana Lee Thompson and Katherine Riedel.

“This year’s Art of the Piedmont was our most successful auction to date,” said BethAnn Slater, Head of Middleburg Montessori School. “Not only did we raise funds that will help with critical needs for the school, we had a spectacular evening that celebrated the outstanding work of local artists and the value of Montessori education.”

Hester Warr-Smith, Chris Patusky and Kierhan Slater Patusky

Yvonne Payne, Nadena Barnett and Thomas Payne

Chiara Pejacsevich and Tara

www.middleburglife.net

Holidae Hayes,Verna Oliva Flemming, Patty Bates Milligan and Brooke Hopkins Gilliam

Katie Parnell Robinson, Janelle Stewart and Linden Ryan

Anthony Barham

Photos by Doug Gehlsen and Karen Monroe of Middleburg Photo Erin and Elizabeth Smith

March 2014

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Ellen and Sydney Hall

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April, 2013

Andrew and Jane Bishop and Janie Ware

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Piedmont

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Don’t miss out on our April issue Space Reservations Due By: TUESDAY, APRIL 1 Copy Due On Or Before: THURSDAY, APRIL 3 Pub date is: MONDAY, APRIL 7 PLEASE CALL 540.687.6325

The Equestrian Philharmonic

C

By Richard Hooper For Middleburg Life

harles Hughes and his partners opened The Royal Circus and Equestrian Philharmonic Academy in London in 1782, the first modern establishment to incorporate the word “circus” in its name.

It was housed in a stone building specifically designed for equestrian and theatrical performances, which could be blended together. The audience sat at several levels arranged somewhat in a horseshoe shape. At the open end of the “shoe” was a regular stage and in front of the stage was the equestrian arena.

Hughes had previously created a number of equestrian companies. The first was in 1772, when he split from Philip Astley, opened Hughes’ Riding School and spawned a bitter rivalry.

Both men’s wives were performers.

Mrs. Hughes circled the ring taking flying leaps while firing a pistol. Hughes’ daughter, known as Sobieska Clementina, rode standing upright on the saddle at full speed. Astley’s wife would ride with her arms and hands covered with honeybees and his son, John, began performing at age five.

A book by Hughes, “The Compleat Horseman,” published in 1772, contains delightful woodcut examples of some of the tricks.

Even though Hughes was the first to call his spectacle a circus, he is not considered the father of this phenomenon. That distinction goes to Hughes’ former employer, Philip Astley.

When Astley was 17, he joined a cavalry unit, fought with great valor in the Seven Years’ War (1756-63) and was discharged in 1765.

He was known as an excellent horseman and an expert with the cavalry sword. He used both talents to his advantage when he started exhibiting trick riding, as had other cavalrymen before him, in 1768.

Astley began by performing outdoors and, by 1770, erected a covered grandstand for spectator comfort. He also began employing dancing dogs, acrobats, jugglers and mimes, who essentially fulfilled the role of clowns, between his feats of horsemanship.

Astley borrowed the concept from the legitimate stage, which used them between dramatic performances, but Astley incorporated them with equestrian acts performed in a ring, thus creating the format of the modern circus.

Equestrian displays remained the mainstay of the production. It was not only vaulting and trick riding, but also included, as the performances evolved, equestrian dramas, quadrilles of dancing (something like a mounted minuet), horses at liberty and high school riding.

One of Hughes’ performances at the Royal Circus was a fully costumed fox hunt with hounds. I do not know how the role of the fox was portrayed.

Astley’s establishments went by various names beginning with Astley’s Riding School (it was usual to give riding lessons during the day and performances in the evenings). When Astley renamed his improved facilities the British Riding School, Hughes followed with his own re-branding as the British Horse Academy.

For the winter season of 1778-79, Astley enclosed his arena, renamed it Astley’s Amphitheatre and created a position for himself as equestrian director, later known as ringmaster.

Illustration from The Compleat Horseman by Charles Hughes published 1773, courtesy of a private collector

Astley first performed in France, in 1771, at the command of King Louis XV at Fountainbleu. In 1783, he returned with his son for another command performance before King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette at Versailles.

Philip exhibited high school riding and when John, now 16, appeared in a short tunic and gold sandals on a white horse with leopard skin saddle-blanket, the spectators were smitten. Marie Antoinette summoned John, presented him with a gold medal trimmed with diamonds and named him The English Rose.

Astley received a royal patent to open an establishment in Paris, which became the Amphitheatre Anglais, but the French Revolution forced him to retreat in 1789. His amphitheater was commandeered as a barracks for French Republic soldiers and when they pulled out, it was taken over by Antonio Franconi’s circus.

In 1793, war broke out between England and France and Astley re-enlisted in the cavalry. He was serving in France when, in 1794, his amphitheater in London burned to the ground. He obtained a discharge, returned to London and rebuilt.

His new establishment, known as Astley’s New Amphitheatre of the Arts, opened in the spring of 1795. After a short lived peace was established with France in 1802, Astley returned to Paris and obtained compensation from the government of Napoleon Bonaparte for the use of his amphitheater and then sold it to the Franconi circus. He retained the house next to it that he had built and died there in 1814. n [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.]

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

336 South Main Street, Woodstock, VA 22664 • 540.459.9650

www.middleburglife.net

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BOOKED UP The Broken Circle Part 2 of 4

By David P. Bridges For Middleburg Life

“B

attery!—Left oblique!—March!”

Captain James Breathed ordered. The cannoneers moved off the turnpike and maneuvered the cannon to a position in an apple orchard on a farm at the crest of a ridge.

It was not long before the cannon bursts shrieked and whistled. The orchard grew dense with sulphurous smoke. From the ridge ahead the Federal horse artillery answered, but it was a far lesser storm than his guns had let fly. His more powerful hurricane, launched from the crest of the ridge, could sadly also reach out and touch Confederate troopers.

While the Federal counter-battery cannon fire shook the terra firma all around him, he hollered out commands. The Federal shells extended so near that he could see them. Like winged birds of prey, they flew so close that their oncoming features became a recurring nightmare. Sponging, ramming, priming, aiming, firing was their only response to the incoming projectiles.

“Captain, a great force of cavalry! Pleasanton, I reckon, or Satan himself—ahead on the turnpike,” the distinguished white-haired Colonel Munford shouted to James. “I’m deploying Captain Reuben Boston east on the turnpike for reconnaissance. Mind your fire!”

“Yes, sir,” James replied.

“You’ve got two squadrons dismounted, placed on your left, on the other side of the turnpike near you,” Colonel Munford reported to him as they both looked up the turnpike to see Captain Boston’s troopers cantering forward with carbines at the ready, pointed skyward.

James fired his guns, and on occasion he saw through his field glasses a gray trooper go down into the dust on the turnpike and a riderless horse come galloping to the rear. He was unsure of the progress of the engagement, but he didn’t like to see so many horses from Boston’s troopers coming back riderless.

A 5th Virginia trooper excitedly rode up.

“Captain Breathed, you’re to cease firing! Your ammunition is faulty and is exploding over our own troopers. Captain Boston has been captured, along with most of his troopers by the 2nd New York and the 6th Ohio Cavalry regiments. I escaped, but they are coming this way with a full head of valiant bravado.”

“Cease firing! Cease firing!” James ordered his artillerymen.

Now, he could not help but feel a great deal of remorse. This feeling he had experienced before in the Shackelfords’ home in Culpeper, for he thought the shrapnel from his guns had been responsible for the death of his beloved commander, John Pelham.

Despite all the courage he could muster to remain stoic, James pulled Billy’s reins back

after the guns fell silent. Lieutenants Johnston and Shanks looked at him. James saw the sad looks on their faces, which reflected their instant comprehension of his remorseful facial expression. His emotions had betrayed him.

He gathered Sergeants Shaw and Hoxton and the two lieutenants to give them the news.

“Gentlemen, our ammunition has been exploding prematurely and we’ve taken out some of our own troopers. Captain Boston and his cavalrymen have been captured, and the Yankee cavalry is getting up the courage to come at us again. Lieutenant Johnston, continue to stay back in reserve. I’ll need to converse with Colonel Munford. I’ll be back shortly.”

He rode Billy to the back of the apple orchard where he found Colonel Munford and Colonel Wickham in conversation. “Colonels, my artillerymen have been firing faulty ammunition and a number of Captain Boston’s troopers have gone down due to our accidental fire.

Your orders?” James asked.

“Captain, you’re not at fault. Don’t blame yourself for something you didn’t have control over. They’ll be coming again up the turnpike and we’ll need your guns to hit them as they ride into us. I’ve ordered the Second, Third, and Fifth to charge over the Adam’s farm. They have cover behind haystacks and there is a ditch in which they can take cover. But your guns can hit them before their blue-bellied troopers get to cover,” Colonel Munford ordered.

“Yes, sir. I’ll return to my guns directly and be ready for their charge,” James responded.

His melancholy feelings subsided after getting positive reinforcements from the colonels.

As a firstborn, he always had taken his responsibilities in life very seriously. He reasoned this might have been why he felt so poorly about the accidental fire incident that had taken out some of Captain Boston’s troopers. The lull in the fight made it evident to him that the Federals were repositioning their cavalry for an all-out offensive charge. He arrived back to the three guns. Although the remorse was just below the surface, he knew he had a man’s job to do this day.

This excerpt, part 2 of 4, was taken from the book “The Broken Circle” by James P. Bridges. n

FoxChase Farm

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he setting was Fox Chase Farm on the east side of Middleburg. The date was Valentine’s Weekend. The occasion was a romantic dinner. With the barn aglow in red lights designed by Artistic Concepts Group, arriving guests were serenaded by solo guitarist Phil McCusker from Olivera Music Entertainment and dinner was done by A La Carte Catering, with wine from Barrel Oak Winery.

“We’ve done over 3,000 events at our farm over the last 14 years with horse shows, charity events, tours, TV shows,” said owner Maureen Hanley. “But this was one of the most fun events we’ve ever hosted.”

After such a successful party, Hanley has revealed that the space (complete with WiFi, heat and air conditioning) will now be offered for rent for weddings, corporate events and parties.

“It was priceless, “ she reported. “Most people couldn’t get over what we created. The space is very unique and it was just delightful to have everyone come and enjoy fining dining in our barn. It’s a special space for someone who’s looking for a fun space to hold an event.”

The barns at Fox Chase were bathed in Valentine’s light

Photos by Doug Gehlsen and Karen Monroe of Middleburg Photo

Donna & Bruce McCain (front) with Susan and Dennis Malley

The dinner was prepared by A la Carte Catering

Laura Macario

Harrison Young of Barrel Oak Winery

Amy and Cory Wagner

The stalls were transformed for the Valentine event

A romantic table for two

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Leigh and Mike Scott

Musician Phil McCuskey played the guitar

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McgoWan associaTes (540) 687-5523

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Janney FarM

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

Brilliant gardens surround the heated pool.

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

282 acres of fabulous rolling countryside and lush woodlands, is available for the first time in many years. It includes 11 deeded parcels, borders on Goose Creek and enjoys spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ideally located off Telegraph Springs Road, the property is convenient to the village of Lincoln with easy access to Rte 7.

Great Potential for Conservation Tax Credits. $4,089,000

Extrordinary estate on over 180 acres sIdeal for horses s 7 Bedrooms sNew State of the Art Gourmet Kitchen & Baths s Gorgeous full wall windows, overlooking 10 acre lake s10 stall stable sPaddocks with run-in sheds sPool and poolhouse with fireplace, spa and new tennis court. $3,750,000

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Fabulous country estate on 37+ acres.

Towering trees & magnificent gardens in idyllic setting. Gorgeous woodworking, heart pine floors, 5 fireplaces, gourmet country kitchen, custom cabinetry throughout. Brick terrace overlooks pond and riding ring. Separate office/apartment, 4 stall center aisle stable, tack & storage room plus huge workshop. Pristine condition. $2,900,000

Elegant English Manor House beautifully sited on approximately 40 acres of magnificent woodlands sSpectacular views and total privacy sBuilt with superior quality and craftsmanship, superbly detailed moldingss5 Fireplaces s Gleaming Wood Floors sMahogany paneled Library and French doors opening to the flagstone verandah sWine Cellar s14’ ceilings sDetached 3 Bay Carriage House $2,555,000

Extraordinary country estate on over 17 acres of manicured grounds, with over 7,000 square feet of spectacular living space. Stone & stucco manor has been exquisitely updated & features soaring ceilings, 5 Bedrooms, 5 Baths, elegant rooms & heated floors. Gourmet kitchen & sun room overlook the brillant gardens. Heated free form pool, 2 spacious Guest houses, 8 stall center-aisle stable.

Private & secluded in a storybook setting. $2,490,000

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PanTherskin

Spectacular 17 room custom brick Colonial boasting over 9,500 Sq Ft. of living space on a private lane s 25 gorgeous acres sPalladian windows sWood floors sGrandly scaled rooms with high ceilingssExtordinary quality throughout sFabulous pool surrounded by flagstone terraces s Brilliant gardens sBoard fenced paddocks sIdeal for horses. Minutes to Middleburg. $2,400,000

Stunning 18 room brick colonial beautifully sited on 13+ acres overlooking a spring fed pond and rolling countryside sOver 9,000 square feet of spectacular living space with high ceilings, gleaming wood floors, and 3 Fireplaces sHome Theatre sMirrored Fitness Room sGorgeous Paneled Library sGourmet Country Kitchen sFabulous Master Suite sRecreation Room with bar sAbsolutely every amenity in this exquisite residence! $1,650,000

Middleburg

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Exquisite country French manor with over 9,000 sq. ft. of spectacular living space on over 55 gorgeous acres just minutes from Middleburg. Grandly scaled rooms. Extraordinary detail and the finest quality. Beautifully decorated. Impeccably maintained. Includes beautiful pool surrounded by terraces and brilliant gardens. Fabulous apartment over three bay carriage house. Ideal for horses. $3,500,000

100+ gorgeous acres, sited at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains s2 center aisle Stables, 2 Tenant Houses and several Storage Buildings s Circa 1840 Historic Main Residence with several modern additions built in the years after sPaneled Library sFormal Dining Room sNew Kitchen sTennis court and several ponds sLand in Easement. also available for rent. $3,400,000

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Charming three Bedroom home completely renovated, just off Atoka Road. New Utilities, Kitchen, Bath, Roof and Windows.

Wood floors throughout the entire main level. Bosch, Thermador & Sub-Zero appliances in a true Gourmet Kitchen. Full finished walkup level. Large Deck, 3 Stall Barn & Paddocks, 2 Car Garage and Storage Building. $795,000

A historic 10 acre farm circa 1787, beautifully sited in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the dc wine trail sGracious Manor House has been recently updated 3 finished levels, 5 Bedrooms sCharming 2 bedroom Guest House sLog Cabin s3 Bay Garage with wonderful Recreation Room and Storage Building sAdditional acreage available sStocked Pond and Magnificent Views. $1,235,000

Charming 9 room Cape Cod on a gorgeous 10 acre parcel with privacy and seclusion in an idyllic setting. Hardwood floors, main floor Master with vaulted ceilings, fabulous Family/Sun room with walls of windows overlooking the pool and decks, 2 fireplaces, gazebo, pool house and brilliant gardens. Library with custom bookcases, formal living and dining rooms, ideal for gracious entertaining! $995,000

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Beautiful 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath colonial in "like new" condition in the heart of historic Middleburg. Lovely garden courtyard entrance, spacious & sun filled rooms on three finished levels. Gourmet kitchen has center island, granite countertops, Stainless Steel appliances & custom maple cabinetry, adjacent to fireplaced family room. Rec. room & 4th Bedroom on walk up level. Two car garage. Charming! $669,000

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Stunning 4 bedroom Cape Cod with over 3,000 sq. ft. of wonderful living space on 2+ gorgeous acres. Features include a wood burning fireplace, whole home generator, hot tub in glass enclosed spa room and open floor plan. Fabulous windows bathe the rooms in natural light. A brilliant imported crystal chandelier graces the formal dining room. High ceilings and huge living room are ideal for entertaining. The wrap around deck is ideal for relaxation in this serene setting. $615,000

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Charming historic home (c.1840) on over 1.5 acres with towering trees and beautiful perennial gardens. Spacious sun filled rooms feature high ceilings, wood floors, 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. Main house includes 3,400 square feet, guest house has 1 more bedroom, and there is a newer detached 2.5 car garage.

Convenient location. $589,900

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

brian Mgowan

Middleburg, virginia 20118 (540) 687-6500 www.ThoMas-TalboT.com

Jim Mcgowan

Glorious White Rock Farm Is Augmented by Historic Amenities

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Facts for buyers Address: 3665 Creels Lane, The Plains (20198).

Listed at: $2,750,000 by John Coles, Thomas and Talbot Real Estate (540) 687-6500.

March 2014

second bedroom is adjacent with an added benefit of a handicap-accessible bath.

At the other end of the hallway is the working area of the home, with mudroom, laundry room with two sets of washers and dryers, generous closets, a three-car garage and full bath leading to the pool.

With a 9-foot ceiling height through most of the second level, beautiful windows, and the wide plank cherry floors, this level feels open and welcoming.

In addition to the second-level family room at the top of the main staircase, there are three additional bedrooms and three baths. One features a small kitchen which can serve as a private apartment/suite.

The lower level offers a very large recreation room and storage closets.

The home is equipped with geothermal heating and cooling and also has the back-up power capability of an automatic generator.

White Rock Farm is an extraordinary property built with custom materials and craftsmanship. It accurately can be de-

scribed as a genuine work of art.

Important features, not easily discerned, include aluminum-clad windows

by Marvin and the zoned radiant floor heat on the main level. Flooring throughout most of the home is from Carlisle Wide Plank Flooring known for its uncompromising quality.

The location of this property is exceptional: Not only does it offer tremendous privacy, wonderful hiking and riding trails and is in the Orange County Hunt territory, it also is convenient to Middleburg, Interstate 66 and Washington Dulles International Airport.

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.

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through three arched openings, one enters the formal living room, with fireplace (with marble surround and hearth) and beautiful built-in cabinetry. The mantle, overmantle and flanking bookcases are made from alderwood accented with intricate carving from Romania.

To the left of the foyer is the formal dining room, with corner walnut cabinets and walk-in bay.

A generous chef’s kitchen with island and walk-in pantry encourages gathering and sharing. There are top appliances, and the lovely backsplash, above the granite counter, was created by local tile artist Joan Gardner. From the window above the sink, you can look out to the screened porch and pool.

One is immediately drawn to relax in the stunning breakfast area, which is designed on the style of a German Stammtisch, a reserved table for close friends and family.

Above the square table, the panels of the coffered ceiling are hand-painted. The windows above the corner seating offer wonderful light.

This area is beautifully tied into the family room with its stone fireplace and dramatic picture window letting in magnificent water and mountain views. The tall ceiling is accented with handsome carved beams. To the left of the fireplace is built-in cabinetry of alderwood, and to its left find access to the screened porch, which overlooks the heated pool.

A stately hallway runs much of the length of the home. The 10-foot ceiling height, 8-foot doors and deep cove moulding add to the feel of elegance and grandeur.

At one end of the hallway is the master suite with marble bath and quiet study; a

www.middleburglife.net

ncircled by hardwood trees and sited on a knoll overlooking a large pond, it’s an idyllic setting that plays host to this month’s featured property, a European-style manor home set amid 115 serene acres and is further enhanced by being surrounded by thousands of protected acres as well as the Bull Run Mountains.

While our custom featured home – known as White Rock Farm – dates back to 2001, the property itself is bathed in history stretching back a century and a half. On the opposite side of the pond, accessed from a separate drive, can be found a log cabin, a 19th-century stone cottage, run-in stalls and spring-fed water trough.

The property currently is on the market, listed at $2,750,00 by John Coles of Thomas and Talbot Real Estate.

The approach to the home is from a private lane through the woods, allowing distant glances before coming to the clearing where the home gracefully appears.

Design, materials and classic craftsmanship have thoughtfully come together in the ambiance of the property. The European design is further captured by the use of arched windows and doors recessed into deep walls, along with a Juliet balcony from an upstairs bedroom window. Throughout most of the main and upper levels are distinctive wideplank American cherry floors.

The covered entry leads us into the gracious, two-story foyer whose walls are reminiscent of heavy plastered walls. Adding to the European feel is the diagonally installed Travertine marble floor and cherry staircase with custom-designed iron railing.

Beyond the foyer is the open hall where

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Exquisite details throughout this incredible 12 bedroom Georgian Revival manor home built in 1936. Situated on over 191 acres. This lovely home boasts a Reception Hall and a white Carrara marble Flying Staircase accessing 3 levels. Over 1/2 mile of Rappahannock River frontage, spectacular views, springs, ponds and rolling pasture $9,750,000

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

Magnificent 32 stall, 12,000 sq. ft. Foaling Barn, built in 2001, has witnessed the birth of many stakes winners and was recognized as having one of the world’s finest thoroughbred breeding and racing programs. A stand alone farm of 588 acres or with the adjacent 607 acres of the Melrose Farm land.

Meticulously maintained. $4,800,000

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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. $2,750,000

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Historic circa 1845 home on 32 acres in Orange County Hunt s1st floor Master sDen sDramatic Grand Salon sEnglish Kitchen slarge Dining Rooms Billiard Room sSmall 2nd Kitchen/Bar leads to Patio, Pool & charming Guest Cottage s7 Stall barn adjoins 3 bedroom, 2 bath Managers house. $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 house, paddocks and pond. $1,550,000

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LOGANS MILL - Extraordinary, private estate area on 179+ acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, less than 10 minutes from Middleburg, views in all directions. $3,500,000

MELROSE: 12 parcels (none in easement), comprise the 591 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. $3,750,000 RECTORTOWN: 107.76 acres Spectacular views from this highly desirable estate location within the Orange County Hunt Territory. Board fenced with frontage on Atoka Road and Rectortown Road. Stocked, approx. 4 acre, pond w/island, spring fed from tributary of Goose Creek. Open Space Easement allows for building of main dwelling, garage or barn with apt. and appropriate farm structures. Zoned RA. $1,250,000

SPRINGS ROAD - Sought after Springs Road location.

Spectacular, verdant 182 acres with Rappahannock River frontage and pond. Beautifully protected views of the mountains, charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath cottage with living room, library/study, kitchen and breakfast room.

Access road to be shared. $3,640,000

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.

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. $2,195,000

A 3-bedroom house, tenant house, two cottages, 8-stall barn, 6-stall barn, 3 sheds, one with silo, and building site for a new home complete the property. Totaling 175 acres, the farm can be bought as one piece or divided into two parcels of 121 acres and 54 acres. $2,175,000

INGLESIDE

ChIMNEyS

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.

50+acres:$588,000 /71+acres: $995,000

Main house, c. 1790 with later additions, is stucco over log and frame, has heart of pine floors, beamed ceilings, 5 Fireplaces, 6 Bedrooms, 5 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths, gardens. Stone guest cottage, c. 1770, is 3 floors with 1 Bedroom, 1Full Bath. Poolhouse has flagstone floors, pickled walls, 2 Fireplaces, 1 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath. 2-car garage, barns, sheds, 12.5 acres. $1,485,000

23245 DoVEr roAD

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

The 83.55 Acre estate offers a stately Victorian Manor Home of approx. 3800 sq. ft., sited beautifully to offer privacy and views. Comprised of two parcels in VOF Easement, each parcel is allowed 1 dwelling with dependencies and farm improvements.This property is a part of the adjacent 865 Acres of Spring Hill Farm. $1,335,000

9202 JohN MoSby hIGhwAy

Historic and handsome four level, stone residence. One of the original homes of Upperville, late 1700s. Large rooms on the main level, with open kitchen and dining room combination. Current owner replaced the kitchen in 2000, new roof in 2001, replaced the oil furnace in 2011, finished the third level including a full bath, and updated the main level powder room and upper level bath. $599,000

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

March 2014

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. $2,800,000

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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. $1,695,000

Stunning and recent restoration by owner/designer of c.1825 Church and Meeting Hall, now leased to an Antique Shoppe and Design Center. Zoned "Commercial Village" and "Village" in the heart of Virginia's wine and horse country. Both buildings sit within the front half of the .84 Acre parcel w/the remainder in lawn w/mature trees & lovely mountain views. $998,000

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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

From a quiet lane, just west of historic Middleburg, this lovely home with 4 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths was built in 2008, on 18 acres. The welcoming front porch overlooks the riding ring whereas, the wide covered deck, on the back of the home, offers a private retreat overlooking the heated pool and pond with its boat house. $1,290,000

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218+ acres just outside of Marshall with wonderful views of the mountains, privacy and easy access to 66. Great potential.

Property is in a VOF conservation easement. $2,449,000

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

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

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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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c.1845 listed on National Register of Historic Places.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens on 98 acres sGrand entrance s Pool with 2 Bedroom Pool Houses 2 Bedroom Guest Cottage s 10 stall, 4 stall, and 3 stall barn with tack rooms, several run in sheds and a large machine shed.

Attached to the 10 stall barn are two separate living quarters for farm managers.Magnificent views. $2,900,000

Circa 1878 sExquisite 6000 square ft. brick Victorian on 52 open acres near Middleburg sElegant Dining Room sFormal Living Room s12' Ceilings s4 Levels sGreat Mountain Views sBeautiful 6 stall Center-Aisle Brick Stable with 1 Bedroom Apartment and a must see Tack Room and Lounges Round Pen and riding arena with all weather footingsRun-In ShedssOut Buildings and more. $3,750,000

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In the heart of Virginia Hunt Country, this rare 5.07 acre parcel offers spectacular unobstructed views eastward to the Bull Run Mountains and westward to the Blue Ridge. The four bedroom, four full bath main residence, a neoclassical Palladian villa, sits at the top of the property, accessed by a paved drive.

Terraced lawns and gardens cascade downward to the swimming pool, set in a formal boxwood garden. Beyond the pool is a latticed pergola, and a one bedroom, one bath guesthouse sits below the pool

Offered at $1,975,000 ttrsir.com/id/FQ8243235 EXCLUSIVELY OFFERED BY

Jonathan Taylor

+1 202 276 3344 | jtaylor@ttrsir.com

Russell Firestone

+1 202 271 1701 | rfirestone@ttrsir.com

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

R

ory Smith, the son of long-time Middleburg resident Barbara DuPont, has embarked on a fundraising effort to help create a youth center in Monterrey, Mexico, that will serve disadvantaged and atrisk youngsters in one of the most vulnerable areas of that gang-infested city.

Smith and Nicklas Karlsson, one of his classmates in a graduate program at Lund University of Sweden, have formed a non-profit—Climbing Borders—that uses rock-climbing to “empower and capacitate at risk youth,” according to its website, climbingborders.org.

“The center will offer climbing both inside and outside as well as access to tutors and psychologists in order to encourage the construction of positive values, improved self-esteem and discipline, the reintegration of youngsters into the educational system and increased rates of higher education.”

Both Smith and Karlsson are trained youth development experts as well as passionate rockclimbers. They’ve also been joined in the Monterrey effort by Javier Hernandez, coordinator of the liaison office of the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime in northern Mexico and a 15-year U.N. veteran.

The initial phase includes a two-year plan that aims to attract 500 youngsters, male and female, in both climbing and using the auxiliary

services the center plans to provide. Smith estimates the initial cost to support the first two years at about $250,000.

“We believe that where someone is born and consequently the borders that surround an individual are random and arbitrary and should not decide the opportunities and fate of anyone in this life,” the three organizers wrote on the website. “We see at-risk youth populations not as a threat or an incurable group of youngsters, but as a boundless and potent source of ideas, creativity, multiculturalism and promise.” n

Sellers - Why pay those high commissions when 90+% of buyers now use the internet to select their homes ... which means real estate listing costs are lower?

For Sale: Fox Hunt Hall, 23389 Four Chimneys LN, Middleburg 6.8 beautifully landscaped, fenced acres on cul-de-sac. Backs up to a 128 acre winery. Spectacular, newly renovated 6,156 sq. ft. home with three finished levels, patio, 2 paddocks + run-in, zoned for equestrian.

$1,450,000 Listed for 1% commission

www.middleburglife.net

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March 2014

area, facing back to the main house.

Climbing Borders: Empowering Youth

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James Atkins

Kathryn Sink

Dave Olimpi

President Principal Broker

Vice President Realtor

Vice President Realtor

Box 345, 23262 Dover Rd., Ste. 100 Middleburg, VA 20118 jim@homesforleaders.com www.homesforleaders.com 703.447.2302

MIDDLEBURG OFFICE

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PURCELLVILLE OFFICE

100 Purcellville Gateway Drive Suite 100B Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.1350

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

Delaplane $2,970,000 Bluemont $1,795,000 Middleburg Mount Independence Auspice Hill Exclusive Mountaintop Retreat, Shenandoah

$1,555,000

Historic 50 acre farm with beautiful views!

Fully renovated 8,500 S.F. home and 2 BR guest house, six stall stable and huge barn.

Strategically located in the center of horse and wine country with potential commercial use.

Vistas offers unparalleled views in every direction. Sophisticated 5500 sq. ft. home great for entertaining and retreating. Abundant acreage and mountain stream. Potential income and very low taxes! 941ToyHill.com

Unique Craftsman home with high performance, energy efficient and eco-friendly features. 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms on 8.5 private acres. Stunning architectural features throughout, and a modern floor plan for casual living.

Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

Michael Gorman 703.862.7044

LONG & FOSTER

®

®

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL Purcellville

Trustworthy • Knowledgeable Professional • Neighborly

$1,295,108

A beautiful, well built, 5BR/3.5BA custom home on 10 fenced acres in Willowin Farm. Three finished levels with HW floors, granite counters, 2 gas FPs, media/billiard room, professional landscaping, in ground pool, barn, and stocked spring fed pond. Miles of ride out.

Andy Stevens 703.568.0727

When you’re ready to buy or sell a home, call the trusted professionals at Long & Foster , America’s #1 independent real estate company.

Or visit us online at www.LongandFoster.com. ®

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Career Night is held on the last Thursday of each month at 6 pm in our Purcellville office. Call 540-687-8530 to register for the March 27th seminar.

4/11

© 2011 The Long & Foster® Companies/Corporate Marketing Department. All Rights Reserved.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL Round Hill

$1,275,000

Stately 5Br Colonial on nearly 20 ac greets you at the end of a tree-lined drive flanked by large paddocks, with beautiful views all round. Landscaped pool, 4-stall center-aisle barn, riding ring, 3 fireplaces, sunny rooms. 2 tax lots. Great location between Round Hill and Middleburg.

Kim Hurst 703.932.9651

Rocky Knoll

$1,199,000 The Plains

$899,999 Bluemont

George Koutsoukos 703.999.8205 All Properties Offered Internationally Worldwide Connections

Kim Hurst 703.932.9651

March 2014

Maria Reinertson 571.481.7511

$429,500

Peaceful mountain retreat on 12+ ac, with easy commuter access along Shenandoah River.

Sunny 3Br home on three finished levels plus additional finished studio above garage. Views of Shenandoah Valley. Just right for year round or weekend use.

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Mountain hide-away close to I-66 and village Situated on over 13 picturesque acres this shops and restaurants. Brick home with stand- breathtaking custom home is perfect for relaxing or ing seam metal roof and All heavy gauge metalInternationally entertaining. This home features a state of the Properties Offered framing. Handicapped accessible with elevator. art gourmet kitchen leading into a family room Commercial grade stainless kitchen, wine with 20 foot ceilings and huge custom windows cellar, cupola with 360 degree views. which highlight the spectacular views.

www.middleburglife.net

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL The Plains

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

6 & 8 North Madison Street Middleburg, VA 20117 540.687.8530 www.MiddleburgSales.com

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Martha Semmes Seems Properly Bullish On Middleburg

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

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ot long after she was named Middleburg Town Administrator in November, 2010, Martha Semmes dug deeply into the office files and pulled out an old town plan from the 1970s.

“It showed a bypass all the way around the town that VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation) wanted to build,” Semmes said. “And right next to the bypass was going to be a giant shopping mall. But we got lucky because no one around here wanted to do it. The town basically said we don’t want to be an urban growth area, and they stuck to their guns.”

“Middleburg recognized that it wanted to be different and preserve the character of the town and the quality of life people enjoyed.”

Clearly over the ensuing four decades, that’s been mostly mission accomplished. And Semmes sees no reason that will change any time soon, if ever. And certainly not on her watch in a job she dearly loves in a town and an area that remains one of the state’s crown jewel communities.

Born in Roanoke and spending her formative years in Beacon, N.Y., Semmes cites the late iconic folksinger Pete Seeger as one of her great influences growing up. He, too, lived in Beacon and was instrumental in starting the highly successful movement to clean up the nearby Hudson River.

“He had a big impact on me in pursuing a career that would protect and enhance our environment,” Semmes said.

At Duke University, she earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies in an independent study program that allowed her to pick and choose courses in a wide variety of disciplines, including urban planning.

She moved to Loudoun County in 1977 and over the years, in addition to raising two sons, has held several positions in the area involving planning, economic development and historic preservation. She was Middleburg’s town planner from 1996 to 2002 before taking a job with Loudoun County that allowed her to focus on all three disciplines and work with towns all over the county.

When Middleburg’s town administrator position came open in 2010, “I thought wow, what a great opportunity to come back and help a community I love so much. I’m so grateful to the Town Council for giving me the opportunity, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

The Council and Mayor Betsy Davis, she said, “have been so supportive and so collaborative. I feel like we’re really a team…Decisions are made at public meetings…They support me and let me do my job.”

These days, Semmes added, her “greatest challenge is the utilities system. We have to comply with state and federal regulations to provide drinking water and also comply with waste water treatment regulations that meet with Chesapeake Bay standards, which are very high.”

With only 475 town water and sewer customers, finding the funds and keeping utility bills at an affordable level are a major part of that challenge. It helped immensely that former Town Administrator Jerry Shiro negotiated for the new Salamander

Resort & Spa to provide a new wastewater treatment plant, another water treatment plant and additional wells.

As a result, there was only a 4 percent increase in town utility bills last year. And additional revenue generated

by Salamander’s water bills and resort meal and lodging taxes also have helped the town stay within its $3.7 million yearly budget. The town is currently in negotiations with Inboden Environmental Services in Mount Jackson to handle the day-to-day management of the town’s water systems.

Several other improvement projects are in the works, including traffic calming measures and the installation of new crosswalks at The Plains Road, Pendleton Street, Madison Street and a mid-block crosswalk at the post office.

Construction will begin in early 2015 on a $1.5 million VDOT-financed effort that also will include a major upgrade to the underground water pipe system under Washington Street.

There will be other safety improvements near The Pink Box, including a sidewalk running to the Middleburg Elementary School. And the town has applied for a $514,000 grant from the Metropolitan Council of Governments to fund replacement of current street lights with dark-sky lighting. The grant also would be used to repair damaged brick sidewalks and increase the space for street-side plantings and trees.

“There is never a dull moment, there are just

Martha Semmes

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

so many exciting things to do,” said Semmes, who oversees 11 town employees, including six policemen who now provide 24/7 coverage.

“It can be a stressful job,” she added. “But it’s a good stress. There are still things to accomplish here. We want to provide the best possible services and keep the town running smoothly.”

With Martha Semmes on the job, clearly so far, so good. n

22 West Market Street Leesburg, VA, 20176 Office: 703.443.1757 www.huntcountrysir.com Black Oak Farm

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This magnificent traditional stone country home, circa 1932, was completely restored in 2005 using the finest materials and modern systems with period preservation as the primary goal. Set atop Black Oak Ridge and its 217 acres it offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Quaker built at the turn of the 19th century, this spectacular stone manor is entirely renovated and upgraded. From the moment you enter you are aware of the care taken by the current owner to deliver this home lovingly and discerningly into the 21st century. Located on 30 acres the estate includes indoor riding ring and complete equestrian facilities.

This historic farm covers 74.11 acres of open rolling Virginia hills. Adjacent to Waterford Foundation Parklands, Waterford Historic Village and Catoctin Creek there are 3 division permits on this conservation easement property. Includes the Victoria main house, stone bank barn, pond and several out buildings. A serene piece of Loudoun County history.

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Truly have it all with ten acres, a fabulous custom built home, barn, workshop, creek and mature trees! The home boasts over 6000 sf of living space on three levels. The professional chef’s kitchen has Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Also included are 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 fireplaces, sunroom, and media room.

Perfect home for you and your horses! This 5 bedroom 3.5 bath home offers an open floor plan with large kitchen w/ stainless appliances and granite counters. Exotic hardwood floors throughout main level which includes a bedroom and full bath. A barn, paddock and available ride out complete this horse lovers dream home. Owner/Agent

Exquisite custom home offers 12,000 sf of luxury living on estate sized lot. Soaring 10’+ ceilings on three levels include 5 large bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, gorgeous kitchen, formal rooms, family room, rec room, den, library, office, elevator and much more. Some options still available.

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Rokeby Road-Langhorne Farm

Oakfield

Trough Hill Farm

Upperville, Virginia • $9,000,000

Upperville, Virginia • $4,900,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $2,950,000

450 acres in Piedmont Hunt • Improvements include 4 tenant houses plus many farm structures • VOF easement with 100 acre restrictions • Property is to be sold in its entirety

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

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 • The result is refined, but maintains its understated sophistication

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

Ann MacMahon Paul MacMahon

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Belvedere

Signal Mountain

Liberty Hill

Middleburg, Virginia • $2,950,000

The Plains, Virginia • $1,950,000

Boyce, Virginia • $1,900,000

Gracious home with 5 BRs • Gourmet kitchen • Two-story floor-toceiling window display of the Blue Ridge Mountains • 3 FPs, coffered ceilings, random width rustic cherry floors • Large home office, gym, rec room, multiple porches and patios • Three finished stories, approx.

10,000 sf. • Carriage house • Garage • Privately situated on 27 acres

160 acres terracing the Bull Run Mtns. • Stone walls through property • Views across the entire region • Stone & cedar carriage house with 3 bay garage and top of the line finishes • 1/2 acre pond • Gated entrance • Complete privacy • Rare find- great escape

Mountain top retreat with 60 mile panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley • 215 acres • 1/3 pasture • Main house circa 1787 • 3 BR, 1 BA • 2 fireplaces • Random width pine floors • 2 BR, 1 BA guest cottage • Stone & frame barn circa 1787 • Remnants of formal garden • Old cemetery • Spring fed pond • Gazebo

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Helen MacMahon

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Middleburg, Virginia • $1,379,000

Boyce, Virginia • $1,325,000

Delaplane, Virginia • $1,300,000

Custom home on 10 well maintained acres • Beautifully decorated • Hardwood floors, high ceilings, 4 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen • Large screened porch • In-ground pool and spa surrounded by brilliant garden • Garage • 4 stall barn/3 paddocks • Full house generator • Irrigation system for garden

Classic 1880's Virginia farmhouse • Lovely setting • Private 1st floor master suite • 2 bedrooms on 2nd floor • 2 additional rental houses • Large stable & storage building • Fencing for horses & cattle • Property is protected by VOF conservation easement • Tear down the small cottage & build a new main house • Lots of options with 110 acres

100 acre parcel • Spectacular building site • Mostly open farmland with some mature forest • Great views of the protected Cobbler Valley • Creek and stream run though the property with large pond site • 4 BR perc certification

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Helen MacMahon

Two Cottages in Halfway

The Plains, Virginia • $1,195,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $1,180,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $525,000

Storybook setting amid large parcels of protected land • Older log cabin with 1800's clapboard farm house attached • Master bedroom with updated en suite bath with handsome upgrades • Charming gardens among peaceful 7+ acres • Perfect for horses • Two stall barn with water and electric

Custom home on 3+ acres • Stunning gourmet kitchen & endless upgrades make this 4/5 bedroom home stand out • High ceilings • Hickory floors, lovely millwork & moldings are throughout the home • Native fieldstone exterior, retaining walls, patio & terrace • Views of the spring fed pond are from every window

Two separate houses on 2 acres just south of Middleburg in Halfway • Both houses have been renovated & offer plenty of options • Live in one & lease the other or space for additional family • 2nd house on one level & easily expanded • Great location & a unique availability • Nice large storage building

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www.middleburglife.net

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Kerry Dale: A Designing Woman Salvages Her Craft At Right: The bench, priced at $2,900, is made of antique fretwork from a Victorian porch and heart pine floorboards out of a Southern Virginia 1800s farmhouse.

Below: Kerry Dale.

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

By Leonard Shapiro For Middleburg Life

K

erry Dale was visiting a friend’s new home in South Carolina a few years ago when they began talking about decorating the place, specifically what sort of head boards to include in the various bedrooms.

“Why don’t you let me do them for you,” Dale asked. When her friend agreed, Dale almost immediately began to hunt for just the proper pieces, eventually honing in on a Front Royal architectural salvage company. She ended up supplying six gorgeously restored antique headboards, and while she was at it, found enough material to create another five tables for the house, as well.

Dale had always enjoyed discovering unique

items for her own home in the Middleburg area.

And she now says that the experience was so enjoyable, and rewarding to her psyche, she’s become immersed in doing more of the same both for pleasure and some profit.

“I’ve always loved old stuff,” Dale said. “I’d go to antique shops, flea markets, shows. I’d see something lying in a corner and think ‘hey, that would really make a cool head board or a neat piece of furniture.’”

At the moment, she has a dozen completed pieces stored with great care in a barn on her property, with another 10 or so restored works on display in shops like Peyton’s Place in The Plains. She had a show in Unison in 2012, and last year, exhibited at a booth at the Upperville Horse Show, with great success.

Dale is always on the lookout for just the proper materials to design her one-of-a-kind creations. She loves pieces of old Victorian porches with their intricate gingerbread designs, wrought iron railings that can be used to craft tables or benches, old wooden beams to be utilized in a wide variety of places.

She often employs the services of master woodworker and furniture-maker Rich King of Philomont on some of her more complicated projects, but is always hands-on herself in the design and final restoration.

“You have to find someone who sees your vision, and this guy gets what I’m trying to do,” she said. “It’s important to me that nothing gets lost in the translation...I’ll find it, design it and then take it to a furniture-maker or a woodworker. They know how to do it architecturally. I know what I want.

Sometimes you have to compromise the design, but sometimes it also works out better.”

Dale has a variety of sources, including a number of architectural salvage businesses both in

and out of state. She’ll occasionally sneak a peek at E-Bay and sometimes will knock on a friend’s door if she spots an item that might be put to better use in one of her designs.

She’s always “trying to find stuff that is totally unique” and added that she also has a deep appreciation for people in the architectural salvation business because “they’re very down to earth, but with the sensibility of preserving and finding value in things that are seemingly value-less.”

Her pieces are not off-the-charts expensive, considering the amount of time, attention to detail, cost of materials and labor necessary for the finished product. A favorite head board retails for $1,800.

And “all of my furniture is built to last forever,” she said.

Dale has named her business “Salvaging Style” and at some point would like to collaborate on decorating projects with an interior designer. So far, she said she’s had nothing but satisfied customers, like the couple who purchased a unique table and told her that “‘everyone who comes in says how cool it is.’

To me, that’s the fun part of it.”

A Florida native who majored in mass communications with a minor in marketing in college, Dale eventually became publisher of the old Middleburg-based Spur Magazine. These days, in addition to her work as a talented artisan, she’s also in the middle of writing a novel when time allows.

The furniture-making is also quite time-consuming, but who cares when you’re having such a grand time.

“I really love it,” Dale said. “I love the hunt, going to places and finding neat stuff, just digging around where most people wouldn’t even bother.

And I love the designing and then doing the finishing work to get it exactly the way I want it. I’d do it all the time if I could.” n

421 Winterset Drive Slope Side at Canaan Valley’s Timberline Four Season Resort 6 bedrooms | 4.5 Baths | 3 Finished levels | 2 car garage When you make this premier mountain retreat your own, all this mountain region’s renowned attractions are at your disposal: winter snow sports, golf, biking, boating and bountiful peace and quiet. Accents in this beautifully crafted ski-in ski-out home from the hand-painted backsplash tiles, two stone fireplaces, custom window treatments, and the soaring cathedral ceilings in the open concept living area create a comfortable but stylish ambiance. The third level master features a gas fireplace and in suite luxurious bath with whirlpool tub. The family room on the lower level is complete with pool table, wine cooler, and fireplace. The new Corridor H Highway is a welcome scenic pathway to your resort home.

Available: $720,000 Contact Ruth Gordeuk, Associate Broker, Timberline Four Seasons Realty Cell: 304-704-5740 rgordeuk@gmail.com See details and virtual tour at www.t4sr.com Sales

M i d d l e b u r g

MOTOWN at Buchanan hall (and more)

Photos by Doug Gehlsen and Karen Monroe of Middleburg Photo

Paul and Doerte Anikis

Jerry Campbell with Helen and Charles Robin

Lisa and Tom Patterson

Michelle and Avery Howard

Michael and Allyson Alto

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Shellie and Britt Womelsdorf Kevin Ramundo and Anne D’Ignazio

April, 2013 •

“ Motown and More” with Shang in the red dress along with Bryan Fox, Gene McBride and Jeffery Walker

March 2014

www.middleburglife.net

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Laura Dietrich, Jim Herbert and Susan Grayson

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he historic Buchanan Hall in Upperville was once again rocking…this time for a Motown Valentine’s Party.

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he ever-adorable and decorated Norfolk Terrier Boom-Boom recently made a trip to New York for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show after winning a number of honors.

Boom-Boom’s show name is Ch. Argyle’s Marimba Queen. She’s bred and owned by Bob

www.middleburglife.net

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where she worked as a production associate for NBC Sports on the Jimmy Roberts team?

At Hill School, the Education and School Life Committee recently held a forum “Parenting in the Digital Age” presented by Dr. Michelle Parker, an expert on children and their use of technology. Her topics included managing a child’s time for healthy brain development, reaping the benefits of technology and the challenges of social media. And speaking of Hill, the school has announced that it will provide morning bus service next fall for students coming from Leesburg and Stone Ridge.

Foxcroft School’s first class of Sports Hall of Famers has inducted Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the Baseball Hall of Fame and a major power in the equestrian world. She leads a group that includes two Olympic equestrians—Nina Fout and Juliet Graham—and two

Boom Boom and his Big Apple entourage

DiNunzio and Robert DeSando of Warrenton and was accompanied by an admiring entourage that included Sharon Maloney, Sally Wilson and Roxeen Hill.

From Leesburg, we note that GCH Joval Angel’s Whisper, an Airedale Terrier owned and bred by Valeria and John Rickard, won the breed competition in the Big Apple. Congrats to all local competitors.

Did we mention that Sarah Chovnick (the daughter of Kathy Chovnick at Long and Foster in Middleburg) has returned home to Orlando safely from the Olympics in Sochi

Lena Lundh and Reilly Lewis at the candlelight concert

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Violinst Marlisa Woods performed at the Community Music School of the Piedmont’s annual fundraiser in the ballroom of Claude Schock’s Barton Oaks in The Plains.

Perfect Score Juliet Mayer earned a perfect score on her SATs.

through distinguished performance, a high potential for future academic accomplishment. Mayer earned a perfect score of 2400 on her SATs.

Highland School concluded an exciting International Week recently focusing on Russia and featuring Temuri Yakobashvili, former Ambassador of Georgia to the United States. The Lower School welcomed Beth Lalonde, who told Russian folk tales to the students.

A painting by Middleburg Academy senior Caroline Greer received the highest possible “Gold Key” recognition in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and The Alliance for Young Artists and Writers recent Regional Scholastic Art Competition. Greer’s work , entitled “Ivory,” will be exhibited at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond from March 1 through April 15.

effective staff people that I’ve ever encountered.

She oversaw the physical plant, managed the pool and ball fields and always responded to the needs. She also personally signed many thank you Joanne Cole and acknowledgements to our donors.”

Jane Radar, at Goodstone Inn just outside

Jane Clark of Foxcroft class of 1973 has been inducted into the school’s first Sports Hall of Fame. She is pictured here with Baseball Hall of Famer second baseman Roberto Alomar and Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.

pioneers—founder Charlotte Haxall Noland and long-time athletic/riding/drill team director Theresa Shook.

Wakefield School senior Juliet Mayer has advanced to finalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Program by demonstrating,

O

n Sunday, Feb. 9, the Community Music School of the Piedmont held its annual fundraiser Candlelight Concert in the ballroom of Claude Schock’s Barton Oaks in The Plains.

The “Brilliant Bach” evening featured conductor and keyboard artist J. Reilly Lewis and performers from the Washington Bach Consort. Highlights included a selection for solo harpsichord from The Well-Tempered Clavier and the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, and several arias and duets from the cantatas. A rousing success for the school as well as the 140 attendees.

Caroline Greer’s artwork “Ivory”

Middleburg Montessori School has announced plans to launch an innovative middle school program this fall that is rooted in the Montessori approach to adolescent education. The program will enable Middleburg Montessori to serve students through age 15, making it one of a handful of Montessori middle schools in the Washington area.

“We are so excited to announce the opening of our middle school this fall,” said BethAnn Slater, head of Middleburg Montessori School. “Its programs will link academic work to real applications and projects, requiring students to be critical thinkers, collaborators and good communicators. This is real-world learning at its most sophisticated.”

Best wishes are in order for Joanne Cole who is retiring as executive director at the Middleburg Community Center after 27 outstanding years. “She produced a parade of events and watched a parade of people through the years,” board member Jim Herbert told Middleburg Life. “She’s been one of the most

of town, has sent word the inn and French restaurant has been honored by Condé Nast Johansens as one of three finalists in the 2014 Awards for Excellence for “Most Excellent Inn in North America.”

Author David Bridges will speak about his book, The Broken Circle at the Middleburg Library at 7 p.m. Monday March 24.

This just in from over the mountain in Winchester… Blue Author David Bridges Ridge Hospice welcomes two new physicians and a physician assistant to its medical team: Dr. Hadassah Aaronson, from Larkin Community Hospital in Miami, Dr. Jo Ellen Cartmell from Greenspring Village in Springfield and Richard F. Lewis III from Woodstock Internal Medicine.

T

Photos by Middleburg Photo

he Middleburg Hunt recently met at the Middleburg Academy campus with a breakfast hosted by Head of School Colley Bell and his wife, Edwina.

You just never know who you might run into during the horse shows in Wellington, Florida… such as these three from Middleburg: Bobby Burke, Elizabeth Wiley and John Coles.

Melanie Maloney of Seven Loaves has sent a note to Middleburg Life that it is discontinuing its Clothes Closet. She said the group was sad to make this decision but “concluded that we have no other choice, given space constraints and the ever-increasing need for food in Loudoun and surrounding counties.”

Seven Loaves, organized in 1994, will continue to provide nutritious food, personal supplies and other assistance to those in need in Middleburg. They recommend alternate clothing assistance at the Potter’s House in

the high school’s student body in the fall of 2013. Bell promised the incoming freshman that he would pursue the idea. The breakfast was served in the stunning, wood-carved “chapel” room in Mary House, as the Hitt family home is now known. n

The Plains and Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Rectortown.

The Mosby Heritage Area Association recently hosted 100 interested folks at Hill School for a lecture: “Foxhunting: The History and Future of the Sport in the Piedmont.”

Naturally some of the leading experts in “the field” were on hand to speak: Tad Zimmerman, William H. Allison, Jake Carle and H. Turney McKnight. n

Head of School Colley Bell with junior member of the Hunt Andrew Looney (Middleburg Academy Class of 2017)

Throughout the years, Middleburg had met here many times, though not in more than decade. The idea of bringing the Hunt back to Homeland -- the historic name of the farm property built by Mr. and Mrs. William Hitt around 1920 – first came up in a conversation Bell had with then 13-year old Andrew Looney last spring.

At the time, Andrew (a junior member of the Middleburg Hunt and the son of Mary and Gregg Looney of Middleburg) was a Hill School eighth grader set to join

Fastest Girl Skier Abby Le won ‘Fastest Girl Skier’ at Hill School’s Mini Olympics.

in the month of January

Parent Karen Lilly serving hot cider to Jeff Blue.

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treatment that offers amazing results in the improvement of existing stretch marks in as few as 3 monthly treatments.

New collagen growth and stimulation effectively reduces and fades stretch marks. Safe, affordable, little to no downtime. Call for more information.

Beautifully embossed designs

Hunter, Dressage, Fox Mask,

ML L i f e

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ongtime Middleburg resident Ed Wright has collected a number of old photographs

M i d d l e b u r g

from the town and sur-

rounding areas, many of them supplied

by Jim Poston. Every month, Wright, a retired executive after many years at the Middleburg Bank, will take readers down memory lane with recollections of what used to be.

joined the Middleburg Fire Department in 1960. My younger brother Tom was already in, and when I started, Peaches Lee, the postmaster and the father of Punkin Lee (Journeyman Saddlers), was president. As soon as I started, they made me the secretary. I said “why don’t you let me get my feet wet first?” and they said “don’t worry, we’ll help you.”

At the time, the firehouse was on South Madison Street. The Middleburg Bank was on the corner, behind the bank was the post office, then the barber shop, the pharmacy and the fire house. Where Tom Hayes jewelry store is now was a residence, the old Ferguson House.

The original fire truck was a 1937 Seagrave and they were still using it as a tanker truck when I joined. At that point, the firehouse wasn’t very big. We had three fire trucks

and an ambulance, a place to hang our equipment, and a poker table. We once bought a new fire truck, but we couldn’t get it in the building unless it had a lot of water in it to get it low enough to get it inside.

I was told by L.G. Collier, a charter member of the department and the first fire chief, that they once had 85 members. He joked that 15 of them were firefighters and the rest were poker players.

There was no pay and you a got a little bit of first aid training. If there was a call about a fire, it would trigger an alarm bell that would go off in what was then the home of Mr. and Mrs. Norris Royston on Washington St. (now The Royston Funeral Home). He would throw the switch and the siren mounted on the Middleburg water tower would start wailing.

You heard the siren and you jumped in the

Yellowstone Park Vacation Rental $1400/week 1/2 mi from NE Gate Cooke City area

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March 2014

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Photo by Leonarad Shapiro

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Sleeps 5 or 6 in fully furnished log home private yard, small creek

Inside Pictures, calendar, more info @ www.VRBO.com or call

540-253-5545

car and got over there as fast as you could. I did some crazy driving to get to the firehouse.

I’d park wherever I could, and sometimes even left the car running.

You’d get there, jump in your boots, get on your helmet and put on that heavy coat and go. I guess the worst thing I was involved in was the TWA crash at Mt. Weather the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 1974. I took a second ambulance up

there, but there were no survivors. It was a terrible day, cold and foggy and you couldn’t see a thing. Very sad. Just a terrible thing. n

Michael Weidlein 1956-2014

Michael Weidlein, a 1967 graduate of the Hill School, passed away on February 5th in Jupiter, Florida at the age of 58. Michael grew up on Dover Farm in Middleburg, where he developed a life long interest in gardening. After attending The Hill School, Loudoun County High School, and the University of New Mexico, Michael moved to Nags Head, N.C. where he established himself as an accomplished artist and award winning painter. Mike, whose kind heart and gentle spirit blessed his family and friends, will be lovingly remembered by his seven brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, his father, Bud Weidlein, and his many friends in the Middleburg community. A memorial service will be held in Middleburg in April.

Lentils with sausage

&

winter vegetables

DELAPLANE, VIRGINIA

In the Kitchen with Emily TylEr

5 cups water 1 pound green lentils 2 bay leaves 1 teaspoon salt

• Rinse the lentils in a colander and pick them over • In a sauce pan, heat the water to boiling and add the lentils, bay leaf and salt • Reduce the heat to medium low and cook for about 25 minutes or until tender • Remove the bay leaf; store any leftover lentils in the refrigerator

SERVING THE PIEDMONT, ORANGE COUNTY, MIDDLEBURG & BLUE RIDGE HUNTS (540) 270-1815 (540)270-1815

CYNTHIAHOLZ@YAHOO.COM cynthiaholz@yahoo.com

April, 2013

OKED UP

To cook the lentils

BOARDING SPORT HORSE & PONY SALES/LEASES LESSONS - RING/FIELD JUMPS/COOPS SHOW RING/EVENT RIDER TRAINING RIDE OUT OVER 2,000 ACRES IN THE HEART OF UPPERVILLE, MIDDLEBURG, THE PLAINS

•

3 cups cooked green lentils 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup chopped onion (I use frozen) 1 small fennel bulb (about 8 ounces) cut in quarters then sliced 1 red pepper, cored, seeded and diced 1 carrot, peeled and diced 1 teaspoon fresh minced thyme 2 teaspoons of olive oil 1 pound sausage – Kielbasa, Andouille, or Chorizo – or your choice ¼ cup fresh flat leaf parsley, stems removed, roughly chopped

• Add the cooked lentils and stir until they are heated through • While the lentils are cooking, heat a sauté pan to medium high heat and add the oil • Toss in the sliced sausage and sauté until browned and cooked through • To serve place the sausage on top of the lentil salad and drizzle with the dressing • Top with the parsley

     

www.middleburglife.net

rench green lentils, also called du Puy, are a great source of fiber and protein and are a delicious combination with onions, carrots, fennel and red peppers. This is a great use of winter vegetables and with the vast choice of sausage on the market, you can change it up every time you I always cook the lentils a pound at a withmake Ed it.Wright time; the leftovers are a great add-in to soups or salads.

Serves 4

FULL SERVICE EQUESTRIAN FACILITY

Dressing

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ½ teaspoon salt Fresh ground pepper to taste

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• Heat a large sauté pan to medium high heat and add the butter • Add the carrots, onion, fennel and red pepper and sauté until tender about 10 minutes

B. BRANDON BARKER

Almond

½ teaspoon almond extract powdered sugar to roll the cookies in

Macaroons

Directions: Makes 16 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup almond meal 2/3 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg white pinch of salt

Bananas are a tricky to manage. I’ve never met a banana-eater who didn’t have a strong opinion of when a banana is fit to eat. Some like them very soft and ripe. I like them just after they lose their green—all degrees within a day or two. So this is my solution. I know they look a bit odd, but they are a deep intense banana flavor which is wonderful with yogurt, ice cream or just all by themselves.

Directions:

• Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees • Place the bananas cut side down in a single layer in a Pyrex pie pan • Sprinkle with brown sugar and the lemon juice • Bake for about an hour • Let them cool slightly, flip them over to coat both sides

They are best eaten at room temperature

540.272.1806

• bbrandonbarker.com

B. Brandon Barker | P.O. Box 192 | Upperville, VA 20185

March 2014

Chips

4 over-ripe bananas, cut in half, then lengthwise 2 tablespoons brown sugar Juice of half of a lemon

• Web Design • Web Development • Marketing • Social Media • Public Relations

•

Banana

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees • Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat silicone sheet • In a bowl, combine the almond meal, granulated sugar, egg white salt and almond extract and mix well • Put the powdered sugar in a shallow dish • With your hands, roll the dough into 1 inch balls.

You should have 16 *see note• • Roll each ball in the powdered sugar • Place the cookies on the cookie sheet and with a glass, press the cookies to about a 1 ½” diameter • Bake the cookies for about 12 minutes until golden brown • Cool on a wire rack * pat the dough into an evenly shaped log on a clean cutting board. With a knife cut it in half, fourths, eighths, then sixteenths to make quick work of dividing up the dough evenly.

www.middleburglife.net

These simple little cookies can be made in a snap and are far less fussy than the pastel colored variety gracing magazine covers lately. They can be eaten as is, or dressed up with a drizzle on melted chocolate or sandwich them with a touch of lemon curd or seedless raspberry jam.

Ingredients:

Take a Walk on the Webside?

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

Fresh green

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es

BROOKFIELD FARM

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March 2014 Middleburg Life Ad_Layout 1 2/24/14 3:02 PM Page 1

OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award: 100 Most Romantic Restaurants USA 2013 Condé Nast Johansens: Most Excellent Inn USA Finalist 2014, 2013 & 2012 Wine Enthusiast Magazine: America’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants 2013 & 2012

M i d d l e b u r g

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Mt.Pisgah Baptist Church

Gospel M Photos by Crowell Hadden

Embrace the Romance and Elegance of the Goodstone Estate!

Concert

t. Pisgah Baptist Church recently presented a Gospel Concert at Buchanan Hall in Upperville featuring: The Trinity Church Choir, Lynn Richman Bell, The Peterson Sisters of Mt.

Pleasant Baptist Church, The Mt. Nebo Baptist Church Soldiers of Christ, The Heart’s Delight Baptist Church Praise Team and Pastor Robert Schoeman of the Upperville United Methodist Church.

Goodstone Inn & Restaurant offers the perfect escape from everyday hustle and bustle. Our luxurious 265-acre estate features 18 elegant guest rooms and suites 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

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

Grannies for Christ

The Mt. Nebo Soldiers of Christ

A 2 0 1 3 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

JSC Construction, Inc.

The Peterson Sisters of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church

Jerry S. Coxsey General Contractor

In House: Carpentry Custom Homes & Renovations

Pastor Robert Shoeman

No Job Too Small, or Too Large

www.middleburglife.net

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March 2014

Stone Masons

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540-341-7560 540-229-2285 Melvin Warner and Norman Brooks

Fax: 540-341-2829 Class A License & Insured

P.O. Box 1969 Middleburg, VA 20118

Debbie Gale, Pastor Philip Lewis and Helen Wiley

Pastor Philip Lewis and Ann MacLeod

00 r.

Automatic Gate Operating System Design Installation, Service & Repair Emergency Attendance Proficiency with All Major Equipment Manufacturers

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

www.auroraservicesinc.com u Professional Gate Consultation & Design Service Aurora Services is proudly invested in installations, service and repair u more Automatic For than fifteen years Gate in the metropolitan Washington DC area.

Operating System Design Class A Electrical Contractor – VA & MD

u Installation, Service & Repair u Emergency Attendance u Proficiency with All Major Equipment Manufacturers

(540) 364-8069 (888) 5 Aurora www.auroraservicesinc.com

[Marcia Woolman summers in Yellowstone where she currently chairs an environmental stewardship group known as the Beartooth Alliance. She also serves on the Goose Creek Board and the Virginia Council of Trout Unlimited.]

community classifieds

Aurora Services is proudly invested in installations, service and repair For more than fifteen years in the metropolitan DC area.

Class A Electrical Contractor - VA & MD

Phone: 703-771-8831

www.leesburgtoday.com

Business Card Corner floor care

Chevy Chase Floor Waxing Service

GaraGe doors

Polishing • Buffing • Waxing

Loudoun Garage Door, Inc.

703-356-4459

Accept No Imitations

Family Owned & Operated 25 years experience License • Bonded • Insured

13 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg VA 20175 www.loudoungaragedoor.com

paintinG

Sales • Service • Installations 703-327-3059

pet services

Weaver’s Quality Custom Painting

Drywall • Plastering Pressure Washing • Carpentry Exclusively Residential • Interior & Exterior

“We’re big enough to do it right & small enough to care�

703-901-6910

powerwashinG Chesapeake Powerwashing Family Owned & Operated for 30 Years Gentle, low-pressure thorough turbo washing wand ensures no damage to brick, stone, wood, concrete or siding.

We use a soft hand-brushing method before spraying to remove embedded dirt that the powerwasher won’t get.

Working Owners Assure Quality Licensed, Bonded & Insured

703-356-4459

landscapinG

Gary’s Gardens

Protect the finish of your fine wood floors from damage requiring expensive refinishing, by using our old-fashioned paste wax method.

All Work Done By Hand!

GardeninG

Got Dogs? We Keep Yards Pet Waste Free!

Starting at just $14 a week! No contracts.

We are in your neighborhood!

• Mowing • Tilling • Mulching specializing in Vegetables.

Weekly or one time service Call 304-268-7489

windows

Chesapeake-Potomac Window Cleaning Company Family Owned & Operated for 30 Years

Working Owners Assure Quality Careful Workmanship Residential Specialist

Triming, Hedge Clean-up, Leaf Removal, Mulching, Sodding & Seeding Family owned business for over 40 years!

Honest & Dependable•FREE ESTIMATES!

540-622-7723 • 540-636-8657

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. Matthew 2:2

45662 Terminal Drive, Suite #150 Dulles, VA 20166 571-375-2602 Sunday School • 10am Morning Worship • 11am Wednesday Bible Study • 7pm Thursday Night Prayer • 7pm (via conference • 1-712-432-0430 access code 190597#) Saturday Intercessory Prayer • 7am (in the Sanctuary)

703-356-4459

Ask us about our window sash rope, broken glass & screen repair services Licensed Bonded & Insured

All phases of Tree Work & Landscaping Tree Removal • Yard Clean-up

Houses of Worship

Pet Waste Removal

www.DoodyCalls.com 1.800.DoodyCalls (366.3922)

Mike’s Landscaping & Tree Service

Bishop Tyrone E. Allen Sr. Pastor

Elder Vincent Wright Pastor

www.christstarchurchofgod.org

+PIO * BN DPNF UIBU UIFZ NJHIU IBWF MJGF BOE UIBU UIFZ NJHIU IBWF JU NPSF BCVOEBOUMZ

)PMZ 8IPMF -JGF $IBOHJOH .JOJTUSJFT *OUFSOBUJPOBM -BOTEPXOF &YFDVUJWF $FOUFS (PMG 7JTUB 1MB[B 4VJUF -BOTEPXOF 7" 3FW .JDIFMMF $ 5IPNBT XXX IPMZBOEXIPMF PSH 4S 1BTUPS

Brin

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tire Family the En !

Sunday School • 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship • 11:00 AM Children’s Church • 1st & 3rd Sunday • 11:00 AM Communion Service • 1st Sunday Intercessory Prayer • Tuesday 7:00 PM Reality Bible Study • Tuesday 7:30 PM

March 2014

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â—† â—† â—† â—† â—†

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25

hy is such a fuss is made over a frog or salamander that can actually stop the construction of a highway or a development?

Truth be told, it might not be about the animal itself in so much as in the habitat it lives in. When a species is lost, it generally means that there is a disruption in the food chain or in the environment as a whole ecosystem.

And that can be a big problem, far bigger than the actual loss of a species or subspecies in the case of the frog or salamander or owl. And the list goes on.

There are several well known and widely disputed examples of loss of species and how it changed the environment. Sometimes the change is so drastic that reintroduction of a species has to be attempted to reverse the damage being done.

One such case has been wolves. Once this key predator was removed, wildlife such as elk had no natural predator and they out grew their native habitat. In particular I can see the difference in Yellowstone National Park where hunting was not allowed.

The Lamar Valley, often referred to as the Serengeti of North America, was described in the Fur Trappers Journals during the 1800s as a paradise valley lush with willows and aspen. Today, it is a grass- and weed-filled meadow with the

Great things are done when men and mountains meet‌.

Great things are done when William Blake men and mountains meet...

Providing the Following Services: William Burke Professional Gate Consultation & Design Service

www.middleburglife.net

N.

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By Marcia Woolman Middlburg Life Outdoors Columnist

Aurora Services, Inc.

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

!

Why Are Native Species So Important?

few remaining Aspen fenced for protection and research, and the willows were recently nonexistent.

Now with the return of the wolves, the Aspen are not being eaten before they can grow and willows are returning along the stream to protect the banks from further erosion. Beavers have come back in great numbers now that they have food to eat and limbs to build their homes. And the bears in Yellowstone are thriving because the wolves are very efficient predators and when a large animal is killed, the bears are dominant enough to run the wolves off while they feed.

One more illustration is the loss of native fish.

The Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout is a keystone species in Yellowstone. Without this fish, there is a possibility of an ecosystem collapse. How can this be?

It is simple. This trout spawns in shallow streams where it is accessible as food to many species such as bears, otters, coyotes, badgers, eagles, osprey and pelicans, among many. Most other species of trout do not come into shallow tributaries to spawn and many do not spawn in the spring when all of this dependent wildlife is coming out of hibernation, migration, or just a long hard winter. This source of protein is the lifeblood of their environment. And species like the wolf depend on those fed by the fish to feed themselves and so the food chain continues on.

The next time you read that a project is being halted because a rare species has been found in its path, think about our land as a whole ecosystem where we are all dependent on each other. We do not have all the answers so that we can say; if this species is removed it will it be disastrous? What we do know is that we have all evolved together, and we are all connected in some way. Perhaps we should follow this mantra that I once heard, “Don’t mess with Mother Nature.� n

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The Orange County Hounds A 1921 painting of Mrs. William C. Long by artist Franklin Brooks Voss will be part of the discussion at a Side Saddle Symposium at the National Sporting Gallery and Museum on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photo Courtesy of National Sporting Library and Museum.

Invites You To

The Forty-Third Running of

The Orange County Hounds Point-to-Point

www.middleburglife.net

•

March 2014

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

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

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

HyltonCenter.org

2013/2014 Season

Leahy Saturday, March 15 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, March 16 at 4 p.m.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Celtic style! This fantastic family band from Canada explores their Irish and Scottish roots with a triple threat of fierce fiddle music, stellar stepdancing, and spectacular singing. They have captured the hearts of countless fans across the globe with their awe-inspiring talent and jubilant performances that always leave audiences wanting more. “A tonic for the spirit.”

(Los Angeles Times) $34, $42, $50

family friendly

Moscow Festival Ballet Swan Lake Friday, April 4 at 8 p.m.

A must-see for lovers of great ballet in the grand Russian tradition! In the tragic tale inspired by the ancient German legend of Odette, the lovely princess is turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. With its melodramatic plot twists, Petipa’s gorgeous choreography, and Tchaikovsky’s memorable score, it’s a timeless classic that’s been enjoyed by ballet enthusiasts and newcomers for generations. $40, $48, $56

family friendly

TAO Phoenix Rising Saturday, April 12 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, April 13 at 4 p.m.

The explosive TAO performers make their Hylton Center debut and they will take your breath away! The drummers (and superb athletes), both male and female, undergo rigorous physical and mental training, and draw upon their diverse backgrounds as rock musicians, gymnasts, and composers to create a fresh, new interpretation of traditional, age-old skills. “Extraordinarily talented… incomparable muscular zeal.” (Chicago Tribune) $30, $38, $46 family friendly

family friendly

= Performances we recommend as most suitable for families with children to enjoy together

TICKETS HyltonCenter.org / 888-945-2468 Hylton Center Ticket Office

On George Mason University’s Prince William campus, 4 miles south of I66 via exit 44

will be on view from March 15 through Aug. 24.

An all day program for home gardeners of varied experience will be held Saturday, March 15, at Shenandoah University’s Hester Auditorium in Winchester. Sponsored by the Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardeners, this annual event is open to the public. Registration is $45 per person.

Westminster Schola Cantorum, conducted by James Jordan, will present a concert titled “Journeys” at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 15 in Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville. A free-willing offering will be accepted at the door. The program will feature Paul Mealor’s powerful Stabat Mater, as well as works by John Tavener, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Josef Rheinberger, Brandon Waddles and John Rutter. For more information, visit www.trinityupperville.org or call 540-592-3343.

On Sunday, March 16, Barns of Rose Hill and Magic Lantern in Berryville present a monthly film “Monsieur Lazhar” at 3 p.m.

In this Oscar-nominated film, a Montreal elementary school teacher from Algeria must deal with the healing of his class after a tragic death. The cost is $8 per person, $5 for members. E-mail director@ barnsofrosehill.org or visit www.barnsofrosehill.org/.

Artist Aiden Lassell Ripley’s work of Gertrude Sanford Legendre, Foxcroft

Oatlands becomes Class of 1920 and Sidney Legendre at Medway Plantation, Mt. Holly, SC, the scene of “Moonshine 1940, from the collection of Mr. and Mrs. Peter H. S.Wood will be on view Murders” March 14-15, at 7 at the National Sporting Library & Museum Exhibition Foxcroft School: p.m. each night. The StageThe Art of Women and the Sporting Life, March 15 – August 24, 2014 Coach Theatre Company presents this murder mystery ith spring almost here dinner theater production in (we hope), it’s a very busy Oatlands’ historic Carriage House. Tickets are $68 month with plenty of per person, which includes a catered 3-course dinner. opportunities to get out and Visit www.stagecoachtc.com for reservations and take part in a wide variety additional information. of events.

The Middleburg Community Center will play

Highland Upper School presents “110 in the host to “A Step Above” art auction of footstools Shade” at 7 p.m. March 6-8 and at 3 p.m. March 9. painted by local artists from 5:30-7:30 p.m. April 11.

The play will be staged at the school’s Center for the For information, call 540-687-6373.

Arts at 597 Broadview Ave., in Warrenton. Tickets are The Community Vacation Bible School at Midavailable at the door. dleburg Baptist Church will be held from from 9 a.m.

Local author and artist Linda S. Johnston will to noon June 30 to July 3. The free camp is opened sign copies of her book, “Hope Amid Hardship: to toilet-trained 3-year-olds through children having Pioneer Voices from Kansas Territory,” at Crest Hill completed 5th grade, with older kids encouraged to Antiques & Tea Room in The Plains from 1-4 help. The church will collect donations of Horizon p.m. Sunday, March 9. For more information, call Milk for Backpack Buddies, a program model created 540-253-5790.

by Feeding America to provide food for the weekend

The sound of balalaikas, domras, and other to elementary school children who are in need. instruments will be heard at the Theatre at Wash There is also an extended day program from ington, Va., March 9, beginning at 3 p.m. when the noon to 5 p.m. at $5 per hour. Children bring a Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra performs packed a lunch and enjoy supervised play all afterfolk music of Russia and its neighbors. Tickets for the noon. Contact Janalee Coxwell at 540-687-5222.

Sunday performance are $25 for adults, $10 for stu The 43rd running of the Orange County dents under 18. For reservations, call 540-675-1253.

Hounds point-to-point will be held Sunday, March

The National Sporting Library & Museum will 30 at Mrs. Magalen O. Bryant’s Locust Hill Farm in hold a Side Saddle Symposium from 9 a.m. to 4 Middleburg. First race is 1 p.m. For more informap.m. Saturday, March 15. The event will provide an tion, call Pippy McCormick at 540-687-5552. overview of a sport that occupies a special niche in

The Hunt Country Stable Tour celebrates its equestrian competition and has experienced a resur55th year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24 gence of interest. Registration information is available and Sunday May 25. Sponsored by Trinity Episcopal at 504-687-6542 ext. 10 or www.nsl.org.

Church in Upperville, the tour is self-driven and

In conjunction with Foxcroft School’s Centenincludes 10 stops at prestigious stables and equine nial Celebration, the NSLM is also organizing an facilities. Advance ticket sales are $25, group rate for exhibition focusing on women as sporting enthu10 or more $20 each. After May 16, tickets are $30. siasts, sporting artists and sporting art collectors.

For information, phone 540-592-3711, or visit the Opening during Women’s History Month, “Foxcroft web site at http://trinityupperville.org/Hunt-CountrySchool: The Art of Women and the Sporting Life” Stable-Tour/. n

What’s going on?

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

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lIBErtY HAll

11 S. mADISOn StrEEt

WISDOm GAllErY

Paris/Upperville sCirca 1770, Lovely Stone and Stucco Farmhouse sits at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains s20+ acres surrounded by Protected Lands sIncredible Views sMeticulous exterior renovations include newly Re-Pointed Stonework, Metal Roof, 2 Large Additions, Covered Porch, Basement, Buried Electric, Well and Septic sFully Fenced, Mature Trees, Stone Walls, and Boxwoods sReady for all your interior finishes. $1,950,000

COmmErCIAl in heart of historic middleburg, VA.-Approx. 7800 sq. ft.

Main level retail/restaurant space approx. 2600 sq. ft., Currently vacant and available for lease. Three level, detached, mixed use building with parking. Upper level3 one bedroom apts-leased. English Basement Lower level- leased, Main level small shop-leased. Leases are verbal, month to month. $1,700,000

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

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

CHIltOn’S GAtE

WAlnut HAll FArm

FOx HIll FArm

103 acres above the Rappahannock River with 1,000 ft. of river frontage. There are also hayfields, a wildflower/habitat walk and a lake. A lovely inlaw cottage, built for an earlier Chilton, serves today as a comfortable home that could be used as a “pied a Terre” while building a larger residence.

The farm is currently in Land Use. It sits a mile down river from the Fauquier Springs golf course and 12 minutes to Warrenton. $1,300,000

A one of a kind property offered in two ways. Rare offering in Winchester this farm includes a exquisite all brick custom built 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bath 1-level Main House, separate Art Gallery/Studio, Garden Shed, 3 Bedroom Guest House & 3-car garage. Other outbuildings include equipment shed, bank barn, silos &Farm Mangers house. Fully fenced. Ideal location. Just minutes to downtown I-81 and more.

23 Acres $1,300,000 43 Acres $1,900,000

The 5 box stall stable was arranged for boarders; so there are logical places for individual storage of tack & equipment. All fields are board fenced and sprinkled with run-in sheds. There are two arenas: dressage & jumping. The contemporary house has been tastefully remodeled with a walk out basement/in-law suite. The western views are magnificent & the 9+ acre farm is five minutes from historical downtown Staunton in the Shenandoah Valley. $498,000

CAnnOn rIDGE-mIDDlEBurG

lAnD

PArIS, VA-rEntAlS

Susie Ashcom (540) 729-1478

DU

RE

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Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Susie Ashcom (540) 729-1478

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

34.51 acres $570,000

D CE

Excellent opportunity to build your dream house on a RARE 10 acre parcel with a Middleburg address! Conveniently located off Rte 50, just a few miles East of Middleburg & West of Aldie. Mostly rolling land with mature hardwoods, a lovely clearing for a house & small stream. Septic site plan completed, but not permitted. Please call for more details. Last parcel available! $344,900

Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

nEW mtn rOAD -Excellent building site on this 4.72 acre lot in an area of attractive homes.

Quiet road, wooded setting, yet very close to major commuter Rt. 50 and the village of Aldie.

Well is installed, drainfield site approved. $295,000 ZullA rOAD - Build your dream home on a rare 3 Acre Parcel on prestigious Zulla Road located just minutes to Middleburg. Board fencing installed. County approved 4-Bedroom Septic Field. Last parcel left. $255,000

laGrange: 18th Century renovated Brick House,2 BR, Full Bath, Kit/DR, LR, Full Bsmt, Attic, Central Heat/AC, Great views of Paris & The Paris Valley, $1,250/mo.

687 Federal Street: 19th Century renovated Brick House, 2 BR, Full Bath, Kit/DR, LR, Full Bsmt, Located in the village of Paris across from The Ashby Inn $1,250/mo.

2 year lease/no pets. Credit/refs. required

Owners rep. r. Sherwood (540) 687-8174

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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March 2014

M i d d l e b u r g

L i f e

ProPerties in Hunt Country

Susie Ashcom Cricket Bedford Catherine Bernache John Coles Cary Embury Barrington Hall Sydney 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 Suzanne Meyle Andrew Motion Rebecca Poston Emily Ristau Alex Sharp* Ashleigh Cannon Sharp* Jayme Taylor