from throughout | | 6 kitchen | cottage lighted stream, acres
SPRING GLADE
MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA
French Country home, with renovations in 1999 & 2017 | 4 BR, 5 full & 2 half BA, 5 FP, hardwood floors, flagstone terrace | Beautiful drive to hilltop stetting overlooking pond, lake & mountains | Im provements include pool, 2-car garage, 2 BR guest house & apartment | Lovely boxwood gardens | Kitchen allowance to be provided | 79.89 acres Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930
SALEM HILL
MARSHALL, VIRGINIA
Well protected Fauquier location | 6 bedrooms | 4 full and 2 half baths | 3 fireplaces | Great views | Pool with large flagstone terrace | Large county kitchen | 4-car detached garage with apartment/ office | 9-stall barn | Covered arena | Outdoor ring | 4 stall shed row barn | 51 fenced acres
$3,690,000
203 acres in River frontage 4 full & 3 1/2 Gunnite pool and private | 5 stall Jim paddocks, pasture | Old d
MARSHALL, VIRGINIA
House front veranda on main level & second story. Craftsmanship & detail throughout |5 BR, 6 1/2 BA, & 4 FP Impressive staircase, moldings & mantles 14.6 mostly wooded acres, access through stone pillars & hard surfaced driveway. Spring fed pond, walkways, gardens & mature plantings | Improvements include greenhouse & workshop.
$1,950,000
Paul MacMahon 703 609 1905
UPPERVILLE LAND
A remarkable property located within a private enclave just minutes from town | Stone and stucco manor house with main level master suite | 7 additional BR | 5 stone FP |
$1,195,000
Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905
Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868
RECTORTOWN, VIRGINIA
Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905
Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868
LEE STREET
HUME ROAD
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Vicky Mashaw vmashaw@middleburglife.com
ADVERTISING SALES
Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com
Andrea Ryder | andrea@middleburglife.com
ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR
Joanne Maisano
DESIGNER: Elisa Hernandez
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Nicky Marshok
ON THE COVER
PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media, LLC
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kaitlin Hill | kaitlin@middleburglife.com
COPY EDITOR & DIGITAL ASSISTANT
Susan Stark
Local veterinarian Tyler Burdick on his farm with his horses and dog, Twiggy. Middleburg Life writer Bill Kent sat down with Burdick for a conversation on foaling, polo, family, and more. For the full story, turn to page 6.
Photo by Jordan Koepke Photography.
ON THIS PAGE
Mayor Bridge Littleton addresses the crowd gathered at Middleburg’s new Town Hall for the
ribbon-cutting ceremony and first official Middleburg Day. To read about the special celebration, turn to page 10. For more scenes from the day, visit MiddleburgLife.com
Photo by Gracie Savage.
ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE
Greenhill Media, LLC
P.O. Box 328 | Middleburg, VA 20118-0328
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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 Aldie, Alexandria, Boyce, Centreville, Delaplane, Front Royal, Great Falls, Haymarket, Leesburg, Marshall, McLean, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, Purcellville, The Plains, Rectortown, Tysons, Upperville, Vint Hill, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.
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CONTRIBUTORS
Shannon Ayres is a Reston-based freelance photographer. His work has appeared in Arlington, Chesapeake Life, Northern Virginia, Virginia Business, and USA Today magazines. He has an MFA in fine art photography from San Francisco’s Academy of Art University. His editorial work can be seen at sdayres.com
Callie Broaddus is a Warrenton native and graduate of the University of Virginia. After seven years as a book designer at National Geographic Kids, Callie founded the nonprofit, Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, in 2019. Callie’s land preservation projects and focus on youth empowerment are aided by her talent as a professional photographer. In her spare time, Callie enjoys Earl Grey tea, Harry Potter trivia, and dreaming of getting back into the jumper ring.
Caroline Gray is a D.C.-based lifestyle and travel photographer. A native to Northern Virginia, she holds a MBA from the University of Virginia. In September 2023, she launched her own photography brand after eight years in the fashion industry. When she is not behind the camera, she enjoys hiking with her Labrador retriever, Captain, visiting her retired horse, Cleverly, and trying new restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Diane Helentjaris chose Loudoun as her “forever home” in 1990. Following years as a clinical physician and public health administrator, she returned to her humanities roots. A finalist in the 2020 Icelandic Writers Retreat, her book “The Indenture of Ivy O’Neill” was released in June 2022. Diane also writes a monthly newsletter, The Silk Mill, which is dedicated to those in love with fabric in all its glory.
Dulcy Hooper and her husband Richard moved to the country from Washington, D.C., nearly 10 years ago. Shortly thereafter, both began writing occasional articles for Middleburg Life. Dogs are a big part of the Hoopers’ lives and several of Dulcy’s earlier articles focused on the couple’s Chinese crested powderpuffs!
Beth Rasin graduated from Middlebury College, where she studied nonfiction creative writing. She worked as a writer and editor at The Chronicle of the Horse for more than 25 years, including 10 years as the president and executive editor. As a freelancer, she’s contributed since 2015 to Middleburg Life, as well as Northern Virginia magazine, Blue Ridge Outdoors, the former Loudoun magazine, and many others. She lives in Hume, where she and her husband and daughter run a boarding facility for retired horses. She enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with her adopted dogs and cats.
Shayda Windle is a freelance writer covering the arts, people, and places that make Hunt Country so special. Her work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, the Fairfax County Times, and several online media outlets. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and exploring Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.
Heidi Baumstark has been writing for several lifestyle magazines and newspaper publications since 2005, specializing in history-related articles highlighting Virginia’s Piedmont. She has been with Middleburg Life since 2014. Heidi hopes to inspire readers to pause and consider the people, places, and events that have shaped the story of our local history.
Michael Butcher is the owner of Butcher Photography. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, he resides in Springfield, Virginia, with his family. For the past 15 years, Michael has specialized in portraiture, event, and editorial photography. When not behind the lens, he enjoys gardening and swimming. More of Michael’s work can be found at butcherphotography.com
Laticia Headings is grateful to call Middleburg home. She discovered Middleburg by attending the first annual Middleburg Film Festival in 2013 and has come back to the event every year since as a volunteer and attendee. Laticia is the founder of Latitude Media and has 23 years of experience as a producer, writer, and camerawoman for television (Discovery, National Geographic), documentary film “Everest: A Climb for Peace,” and multi-platform media. Now, as a full-time realtor with McEnearney Associates, she is helping her clients realize their dream of calling Hunt Country home.
Lia Hobel is a freelance journalist, known for her blog, Uplift Loudoun. In addition to her work for Middleburg Life, Lia writes periodically for online platforms with articles appearing on GOBankingRates, Forbes, Huffington Post, and Yahoo! She is a Loudoun 40 Under 40 honoree and a Certified Tourism Ambassador for the county.
Bill Kent’s journalism has appeared in more than 40 national and regional publications including the Washington Post, Art & Antiques, Philadelphia Magazine, Baltimore Magazine, New Jersey Monthly, and The Hunt. A former correspondent for the New York Times, he taught writing and journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers, and Temple universities, and is the author of seven novels, a Fodor’s Guide, and a history of Atlantic City. When not writing, he enjoys walking his westies on Washington Street.
Gracie Savage is a local photographer who grew up in the village of Aldie and has been photographing local weddings, portraits, and events since 2016. Her passion began when she received her first camera in middle school and she continued to study the craft in high school and in college. She was a photographer at Georgetown University for over three years and joined Middleburg Life as a contributor in the spring of 2022.
Also in this issue: Jordan Koepke and Joanne Maisano.
TYLER BURDICK: Goals, Foals, & Family
Written by Bill Kent
The calls come at every hour, sometimes late at night or even during polo practice. Somewhere in Hunt Country, a mare is about to foal.
“Horses are just like humans,” Dr. Tyler Burdick says. “The baby comes when it wants to. You have to be there to bring it into the world.”
Like his father, Flint Hill veterinarian Dr. Todd Burdick, Tyler practices equine veterinary medicine to support a love of horses and polo. Also like his father, Tyler is a local favorite on the polo pitch this summer.
“It’s a highlight for me,” he says, adding that he plays with the Rebellis Club in Warrenton. But polo comes second to the needs of clients
and their horses. Burdick’s specialty is equine reproduction, and he is on call even on weekends. As a teen, Burdick accompanied his father on a drive to Little Washington to help a horse lay down and be still. “The horse was resisting. I saw my father calm him down, so that he went on the ground safely. That wasn’t surprising because I’d seen my father calm horses and I knew he could do it.”
He adds with a grin, “What really impressed me was the way he could also calm the owners, who were so worried and anxious that they were making the horse nervous. To see my father come in and take charge like that was amazing. He wasn’t my dad — he was somebody making
everything better. That’s when I decided I wanted to be a vet.”
Todd tried to talk him out of it. He reminded his son of the long hours, the meals and family time interrupted to handle emergencies, and the long years of study. “When Tyler told me he could give up polo for three years to become a veterinarian, I knew he was fully committed,” Todd recalls.
“There is nothing more important to me,” Tyler shares while sipping a chai latte on a rare day off. “Not every foaling works out, and dealing with that emotionally is never easy, for me or anyone involved. But most foalings are successful, and when that happens, everybody feels good.”
In a given year, Burdick brings about 30 baby horses into the world. Based in Hume, he and his wife, Ali, share their farm with two dogs, two donkeys, and 16 horses.
Ali is the former Alexandra McKinley Stanley, a veterinary technician who married Tyler last September. “I used Tyler’s father as my equine vet for years before I knew he had sons,” Ali Burdick remembers. She and Tyler “were actually very good friends before we ended up together. I quickly became wrapped up in the veterinary world, which I very much enjoy, although it is all-consuming.”
Though familiar with them, the first time Burdick sat in a saddle, he wanted to be anywhere else but on a horse. “With my dad being a vet, I grew up around horses. Nothing was strange about them,” he says. “But when I tried jumping, my balance wasn’t right. My timing wasn’t right. I was too nervous. I wanted to get as far away from riding as I could.”
Instead he tried soccer, football, and martial arts, where he learned one of the secrets to shattering a cinder block with your forehead was “not to think about it too much.”
Then, Burdick explains, “When I was about 11, I saw my father playing polo. I thought it could be something I could try.”
Tyler and his twin brother, Austin, were still in high school when they began to dominate the polo fields. Todd gave both sons his blessing. “I emphasized the sportsmanship aspect of polo.
Burdick | Page 7
Tyler and Ali Burdick with their dog, Twiggy. Photo by Jordan Koepke Photography.
Most people won’t remember who won for a week. Everyone remembers if you were a jerk or a gentleman.”
A different Todd, Todd Thurston, played with Austin and Tyler when they joined the University of Virginia’s polo club. Thurston remembers the Burdick brothers as “the best teammates I could ask for. When we all played together, we could arguably beat any team in the country. I could always count on them to show up to the gym to do team lifts, or go stick and ball together.” Thurston continues, “Austin was more outgoing and talkative than Tyler. Austin and I used to tease Tyler sometimes because Tyler at the time was easier to rile up. I think it helped the friendship we shared.”
Austin and Tyler were at UVA when their mother, Jane, was diagnosed with throat cancer. In 2015, Todd Burdick gathered his sons around him when she died.
Sadly, two years later, Todd called Tyler to tell him that Austin had died in his sleep of an undiagnosed heart ailment.
“That was the hardest thing I have ever done,” Todd remembers. “We were and are a close-knit family with strong religious faith, which helped. We also recognized and celebrated that Austin really enjoyed his life. I let Tyler know it was acceptable to be sad and angry, but
that we should carry on, as that would be what Austin would want.”
Thurston was a pallbearer at Austin’s funeral, and, last year, best man at Tyler and Ali’s wedding. “Tyler and Austin were my closest friends at UVA. Tyler is compassionate and loyal. He is a man of few words, but I know how much he cares. I was honored to be his best man. It meant a lot to me because I know Austin would have been his best man.”
Hunt Country’s extended family of polo players came together in a memorial service at Great Meadow. Soon afterward they organized a memorial polo match to raise funds for a yearly UVA polo scholarship in Austin’s name.
Professional polo player and Middleburg realtor Isabella Wolf most admires Tyler Burdick’s kindness. She currently uses Burdick as her reproductive vet.
“I grew up playing with Tyler since I was 9 years old, and then we played high school and college polo at UVA,” Wolf shares. “He’s always been the kindest person, and very kind with horses, which is why he’s such a good vet.”
On the field, “He’s a great polo player and horseman, very consistent in his abilities, and he always keeps his calm composure,” Wolf finishes.
Burdick’s father agrees. “He is always calm and happy when he’s playing polo. He is principled, honest, and thoughtful. He’s helpful and encouraging to less proficient players.”
Tyler also shares his passion for polo with Ali. She says, “Tyler has been teaching me the ins and outs of polo since we first met. I enjoy the sport and the camaraderie that it brings. I generally play on the same team as Tyler, which is always nice for me. Tyler is a great teammate to have because he is effective and plays hard. If I’m not on his team, it is usually a practice, and he lets me win.”
Both Ali and Tyler have a special affection for two of the polo ponies that Tyler foaled a few years ago. One is from a horse owned by his mother, and the second is from a horse that belonged to Austin.
“I bred them because I think they would have wanted me to,” Burdick says, his voice becoming quiet with emotion. “Also, it’s a way of keeping my mother and brother with me.”
Looking to the future, Todd expects to hand over most of the family veterinary practice to Tyler by the end of 2024.
“I’m nervous about it,” Tyler admits.
And Ali hopes Tyler might also find time for sketching and painting portraits of horses, which he used to do to clear his head.
Though, for Burdick, the sky is seemingly the limit and his future as a vet and a polo player looks bright. Given he can calm a pregnant mare, say a kind word to a player who has just missed a shot, and break a cinder block with his head, one could argue there is little he can’t do. ML
Left: Tyler and Austin Burdick with their parents, Jane and Todd. Middle: Tyler on the polo pitch. Photos courtesy of Tyler Burdick. Right: Twiggy romps around the farm. Photo by Joanne Maisano.
Burdick | From page 6
middleburG’s New TowN Hall & a CelebraTioN oF CommuNiTy
Written by Dulcy B. Hooper | Photos by Gracie Savage
The festive and well-attended ribbon-cutting that took place on Friday, May 31, was the culmination of a project that had been in the works for over 15 years.
“It was a nice punctuation mark on a really long process,” says Chris Bernard, vice mayor and member of the Middleburg Town Council. “The ribbon-cutting went very well, and Mayor Bridge Littleton really tied things together with a great description of what community means and how this building and project are so integral to that community.”
Bernard, who lives in Middleburg with his wife, Michelle, and son, Maverick, has served as vice mayor since January, with a term that runs through the end of 2025. This is his second full term as a member of the Town Council. Bernard
“It’s something I’m really proud to have been a small part of. I believe it will be a great benefit to the community for so many years to come.” – Bernard
Community | Page 11
Mayor Bridge Littleton gives a thumbs-up after a successful ribbon-cutting.
Community | From page 10
and his wife are the owners of The PLAYroom on Washington Street.
“Serving the town government is my way of giving back to the community that we love so much,” he shares. “It’s something I’m really proud to have been a small part of. I believe it will be a great benefit to the community for so many years to come.” Bernard applauds the involvement of the entire Town Council, but adds that “the real kudos go to Rhonda North, Danny Davis, and Will Moore, as well as the rest of the staff that made this a reality.”
Rhonda North, the town clerk, says that her involvement in the project was inspired by the
“Several local businesses came together to make it a really special, locally-focused event.” – Bernard
condition of the former Town Office, which had housed Middleburg’s government since 1964. “While it was a beautiful old building and it allowed everyone to be close,” she notes, “it had a lot of problems.”
During North’s tenure in the old building, it underwent mold remediation three times.
“It was simply an unhealthy building to spend any significant amount of time in.”
Additionally, the Town’s management team had outgrown the space. The employees were working in cramped, confined areas and North remembers that “there were very few spaces that allowed for private conversations if you needed to have one with a citizen.”
Adding that she often watched visitors struggle to come into the building for services or meetings because of a lack of accessibility features, North concludes, “No one should be in a position where they cannot access their local government because of [the] building.”
About working on the project, North stresses how important it was to everyone involved that the building not only function as intended, but that it fit within the Historic District and felt like it was “Middleburg.” Among North’s initial efforts, she oversaw the contract with the architect who identified the size the building needed to be to support the Town government operations for the next 50 years.
The new Town Hall will house administrative offices as well as the Police Department, in addition to conference rooms available to the public, green space in the front and back, public parking throughout the week, restrooms, and even EV
charging stations.
The inaugural Middleburg Day, during which the Town Hall ribbon-cutting took place, was Bernard’s idea, prompted by feedback from residents who were concerned about the growing tourism market and the potential to lose the town’s identity. “I thought it would be appropriate — and fun — to officially take a day each year to celebrate Middleburg and our community’s history and traditions,” he shares.
“This year’s picnic was a tremendous success,” Bernard continues. “It was well attended and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Several local businesses came together to make it a really special, locally-focused event.” In fact, so successful was the May 31 event that the Town Council adopted a proclamation on June 13 designating the first Friday after Memorial Day as the official “Middleburg Day.”
Bernard encourages the public to come check out the new Town Hall — attend a meeting, volunteer for a committee, or check out an event like the Middleburg Farmers Market, which runs on Saturdays behind Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. through October.
North expresses her hope that “everyone will love it as much as I and the rest of the Town staff do, and that it is able to successfully serve the community for many, many years to come.” ML
For more of Gracie’s photos from Middleburg Day, visit MiddleburgLife.com.
Middleburg Town Hall
10 W. Marshall Street
P.O. Box 187
Middleburg, VA 20118 middleburgva.gov (540) 687-5152
Top: Hundreds of locals gathered for the Middleburg Day festivities. Bottom left: Vice Mayor Chris Bernard addresses the crowd. Bottom right: Lively performances were part of the celebration.
DREAM TEAM: Lost Barrel Brewing & Ryan Zimmerman
Collaborate on New Beer
Written by Kaitlin Hill
Known to baseball enthusiasts across the nation as “Mr. National,” Ryan Zimmerman’s impressive 17-year stretch with the Washington Nationals had no shortage of accolades. During his career he earned the National League’s All-Star title twice, the Golden Glove in 2009, and the Lou Gehrig Award in 2011, among others. But his work off the field is equally impressive. In 2006, he founded the ziMS Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing attention to and finding a cure for multiple sclerosis.
“Multiple sclerosis is a disease quite close to my heart,” Zimmerman shares. “As a lot of people
Team | Page 13
Photos courtesy of Lost Barrel Brewing
Ryan Zimmerman and Dan Sickmen.
in the D.C. area know, in 1995, my mother Cheryl was diagnosed with MS, a chronic and unpredictable disease that affects the central nervous system. MS affects roughly 400,000 Americans and impacts the body in almost as many ways. I look back now on my mom’s condition and real-
awareness for this cause — just like this partnership with Lost Barrel Brewing.”
“Ryan is a family friend of ours,” shares Natalie Femia, head of marketing and events at Lost Barrel Brewing in Middleburg. “He started [the foundation] because of his mom. It is really important to him, so it is really important to us.”
“I’ve tried to find creative ways to raise money and awareness for this cause — just like this partnership with Lost Barrel Brewing.”– Zimmerman
ize how much it influenced my development as a person.” He continues, “[Throughout] everything I’ve done and gotten involved with, personally and professionally, over the past few decades, I’ve tried to find creative ways to raise money and
Of how the collaboration came to pass, Zimmerman shares, “We started discussing the possibility last year for a fun collaboration with a ziMS Foundation donation beer and got to work!”
Dan Sickmen, Lost Barrel’s head of brewing operations, explains, “First, I wanted to start off with the season. We are getting into the warmer months, so I wanted to go in the direction of a nice, easy drinking beer.”
As for Zimmerman’s involvement in the process, Joe says, “Ryan [was] in the production room with us. He went through the [whole] production process, went through the recipes and the descriptions that Dan laid out.”
Zimmerman adds that he was “very involved — we started by chatting about the styles of beer I like, then got together directly with the LBB brewing team to navigate through recipe iterations and land on a perfect hybrid batch.”
Zimmerman and the Lost Barrel team landed on a Kölsch-style beer. Zimmerman explains, “We wanted to have a beer that would appeal to a wide audience. The Kölsch is a perfect style for summer sipping, and this beer we’ve made stands
Team | Page 14
“We have been working with him for months on the idea,” adds Joe Femia, CEO of Lost Barrel Brewing. He continues, “Dan put together four different formulas we thought Ryan might like.”
Left: No. ELEVEN Kolsch in cans. Right: Zimmerman with the LBB team.
Team | From page 12
| From page 13
out for its crisp drinkability and smooth finish.”
Sickmen finishes, “The beer came out amazing,” with Natalie adding, “Ryan has tasted it and loves it. We gave him first dibs on taste-testing.”
Named the No. ELEVEN Kolsch, a nod to Zimmerman’s National’s squad number, the beer’s release was celebrated on June 27 at a launch party benefiting the ziMS Foundation. “We wanted to get the word out that it’s not just a beer. Proceeds of the beer are going to the ziMS Foundation. One hundred percent of the ticket sales are going to the foundation,” Natalie explains.
Brewery merch, a specialty of Lost Barrel Brewing, will also be a part of the No. ELEVEN Kolsch campaign with hats as a popular offering. Natalie says, “Come try the beer, get a hat, and you can match Ryan!” She also teases, “Going forward we’ll have the beer on tap, and you never
know when [Ryan] will pop into the tap room.”
Joe adds, “He’s certainly a very approachable guy. And, this is a wonderful opportunity to help the foundation. We’ll see where we can take it,
Launching a beer line with the award-winning Lost Barrel team is going to blend both of these aspects in a really unique way.”
If you missed the launch, don’t worry. In ad-
“We wanted to have a beer that would appeal to a wide audience.” – Zimmerman
but we hope to raise a lot of money for the ziMS Foundation through this effort.”
Zimmerman echoes the enthusiasm of the Lost Barrel team, and in doing so, his appreciation of the collaboration. He says, “This is a really exciting project for me, personally. I am big on community, and I am big on giving back.
dition to being on tap at Lost Barrel, Zimmerman says, “No. ELEVEN will be distributed throughout D.C. and Virginia and will also be available in craft stands at Nationals Park!” ML
For more information on the ziMS Foundation, visit zimsfoundation.org.
Left: Zimmerman modeling the merch. Right: No. ELEVEN Kolsch hats.
Team
oak spriNG GardeN FouNdaTioN’s iNauGural plaNT Camp CulTivaTes youNG miNds
Written by Shayda Windle | Photos courtesy of Oak Spring Garden Foundation
This year marks the debut of Oak Spring Garden Foundation’s Plant Camp, a place for green thumbs and creative minds to blossom. The Plant Camp is a key initiative of OSGF’s broader aim to foster education and practice plant science, horticulture, and landscape stewardship.
The OSGF Education and Outreach team has thoughtfully crafted a weeklong experience for
A cardboard roll transforms into a useful lesson on soil.
children filled with arts and crafts, nature-based learning, story time in the garden, and farm-totable activities. This immersive program encourages every participant to uncover the wonders of the natural world through practical, hands-on activities. The camp is led by experienced professionals and educators who will provide in-depth knowledge and guidance.
OSGF has two remaining summer sessions, July 22 to 26 and July 28 to August 2, which run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include activities that are tailored for children between the ages of 6 and 12 years old. “Each week of camp can accommodate up to 20 kids, with five instructors and the farm team available as needed,” explains Ginger Anderson, an education and outreach specialist.
Cultivate | Page 16
Cultivate | From page 15
Children should be dressed for the farm, with hats and closed-toed shoes recommended. The camp will provide morning and afternoon snacks, but children should bring lunch every day except Friday, when they will have a special farm-to-table meal that they’ve helped to prepare.
The experience features STEAM activities and craft-making with natural dyes sourced from the farm, providing a creative exploration of plantbased arts for participants. Campers will also delve into horticulture and gardening basics, learning about different parts of plants and seeds and how to care for seedlings. Practical experience in managing and harvesting from the garden will supply them with valuable life skills and lasting memories. “Between all of the different activities we will do, the children will have lots of keepsakes to bring home,” Anderson shares. “This is our first year offering a summer camp for children, and we hope it’s a success so we can expand the program next year.”
In addition to gardening, campers will interact with chickens and have an opportunity to collect eggs. The camp balances these educational activities with plenty of recreation, including water relays, races, hula hoop contests, and supervised play on the expansive property.
Anderson emphasizes the camp’s focus on conservation and sustainable practices, aligning with OSGF’s mission, and explains that each day of camp has a theme. Monday is sustainable farming day. Tuesday, participants will have a chance to dive into ethnobotany with crafts using Japanese indigo straight from the farm. On Wednesday, they’ll learn about natural resources and some of the conservation activities that take place on the farm. On Thursday, campers will take a field trip to Marshall Library, where there is a program on water and soil sciences. Afterward, they’ll visit Northern Fauquier Community Park to work on an EnviroScape model, an interactive educational tool designed to demonstrate how various environmental processes and human activities impact water quality and the Cultivate | Page 17
Top: Camp participants listen intently as their next activity is explained. Middle: Two campers work with a set of dinosaur footprint stamps. Bottom: Ginger Anderson leads a discussion in the greenhouse.
Cultivate | From page 16
environment.
Friday might be a favorite with the farm-totable theme and a “plant parade” at the end of the day, where campers will make crafts from plants and celebrate the end of camp. They will also have an opportunity to harvest produce straight from the farm and work with the on-site chef to prepare a meal which everyone will enjoy that day. By the end of the camp, participants will have a deeper understanding of conservation and an appreciation of plants, gardens, and landscapes. Even more, campers are sure to walk away with friendships, memories, and unforgettable stories from their time at Plant Camp. ML
To learn more and sign up for Oak Spring Garden Foundation’s Plant Camp, visit osgf.org.
Seeds are potted in compostable containers.
The Plains – The epitome of an exquisite Horse Country Estate with meticulously manicured gardens, grounds and hundreds of acres with protected view-sheds. Oakendale is in a class of its own. John Coles | 540-270-0094
Middleburg – Tuscan-inspired estate has an “Old World” warmth that is elegant and welcoming. 5 BRs, 8 1/2 BAs, 8 fireplaces, heated pool & Jacuzzi. 4 BR guest house, 8 stall center aisle stable.
Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
Middleburg – Magnificent Estate encompasses Bolinvar’s 100 acres with manor house, and the adjacent Canaan of Bolinvar’s 225 acres with its newly built state-of-the-art horse facilities. John Coles | 540-270-0094
Delaplane – Exquisite and beautifully sited. Located within the Crooked Run Valley Rural Historic District. 10 BRs/6.5 BAs. Behind the house are a pool, barns, paddocks and mature woodlands.
John Coles | 540-270-0094
|
| 540-270-0094
Middleburg – Situated just east of town, this extraordinary property
Marshall – In addition to the classically beautiful brick manor house, ca. 1935, there is a stunning, newly constructed second home, both are perfectly sited for privacy and views. John Coles
Middleburg – Ideally located with spectacular views in
gorgeous setting. 4 BR / 4 BA is in the heart of “Hunt and Wine Country.” Private, spacious and charming. 8 stall stable, 5 fenced paddocks. Mary Ann McGowan
The Plains – Recently renovated
Warrenton, easy access to I-66 and the many villages in Horse / Wine Country.
ASHBY GAP ADVENTURES
Written by Heidi Baumstark
“Take Me to the River.” Remember that classic ‘70s song? It originated with Al Green, and was remade a few years later by the Talking Heads. Its popularity is no surprise: The serenity of the water, the fresh air, and the wildlife beckon people to the river.
Ashby Gap Adventures is a full-service outfitter that delivers scenic half-day and full-day river trips on the Potomac and Shenandoah for groups of up to 18. The adventures include opportunities to fish, hunt, and experience special foraging trips.
Owned by Jeff and Erika Kelble of Clarke County, AGA has a team of guides that paddle groups down the river while educating participants on birding, ecology, or history, if desired. Trips can be customized for couples, families, or even coworkers for corporate retreats. AGA’s team does all the heavy lifting while customers float down the river, relax, and explore nature. After all, their tagline says it best: “We do the work … you do the fun.”
MORE THAN RIVER FLOATS
Ashby Gap also gets lots of fishing guide requests for regular fishing or fly-fishing excursions. They provide fishing rods, fly rods, reels, line, lures, flies, and a veteran guide to take guests to the best spots. This is a perfect outing for those ages 10 and up with a maximum of 12 guests. They also accommodate requests for waterfowl hunting, including ducks and geese. Again, Ashby Gap provides all the supplies: the boat, life preservers, a guide, and a cooler with snacks and drinks.
Then there are foraging adventures on a customer’s private property, too. “People want to know what’s edible on their own land. Our guide will take them around and show them what’s safe to eat and ways to prepare it,” Jeff Kelble notes.
HOW IT STARTED
AGA was established in 2019 on the cusp of the pandemic. Kelble had been in the river business since the late 1990s with a fishing guide service. In 2005, “I started a conservation nonprofit called Shenandoah Riverkeeper — housed under Potomac Riverkeeper — and worked there through 2018. The next year, my wife and I started Ashby Gap Adventures,” he remembers. When Kelble left Potomac Riverkeeper, his goal was to get back into the river guide business. He noticed that over the years, people have become more careful and less inclined to get on a river and just go by themselves. “So, taking customers on river adventures has become more popular,” he says. “Our guides row the boats so guests can sit back and enjoy the ride. Lots of people don’t know where the river accesses are. People want the river experience, but don’t want to buy all the equipment.” AGA’s boats are commercial-grade whitewater rafts. Boat seats swivel so guests can catch different views.
MIDDLEBURG CONNECTION
“I knew the concierge at Salamander in Middleburg,” Kelble shares. In November 2019, Kelble reached out asking if Salamander would be interested in extending his private river trips to guests. “They were glad to offer our services, but definitely wanted to check me out,” he remembers. Kelble brought his raft and trailer to Salamander, and after the general manager inspected the equipment, he got the green light for a partnership. “That relationship with Salamander immediately filled our business to capacity,” Kelble says. “We’re the closest private river outfitter to Middleburg.”
VIEWS ON THE RIVER
Remnants of mills, old habitations, and fords in the river are just some of the views customers
will see on their trip. Everyone notices the birds — herons, eagles, hawks, ospreys, songbirds, orioles, ducks, geese. It makes a birder out of people who previously had no interest. Kelble adds, “We see lots of ‘National Geographic’-type scenes of birds fighting over food; we see wild turkey, colorful turtles, bears crossing the river, and deer almost every day.” There are 400 miles of floatable water in the Shenandoah and Potomac, and AGA specifically handpicks their float destinations along the routes least populated by people.
To the team at Ashby Gap, a great trip means something: time with loved ones, dodging crowds, and discovering serene spots to experience the wild. At the end when the boat comes to shore, “we hug the guests, and they go home. It’s really nice,” Kelble concludes.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Bill Stiebel, of Winchester, signed up for a river float in May with friends visiting from California. Their last time on a river was in Africa, but they were so excited to experience the Shenandoah. “It was a fantastic morning,” he shares. “The scenery and wildlife were truly beautiful. Jeff has an amazing knowledge of the river, its ecology, geology, and history.”
Gerard Maguire, of Fairfax, agrees. “I’ve done many trips with Ashby Gap Adventures, and my favorite was a trip with my wife, our two kids, and our nephew. We kayaked down the Shenandoah with a guide who shared stories about the region, the river, and pointed out wildlife. It’s the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Shenandoah. Jeff’s operation is excellent. I’ve done similar trips with other outfitters, and he’s in another class.”
Stiebel concludes, “I have been on the Shenandoah so many times, but I learned more in this one outing than in all my previous trips combined.”
Adventures | Page
Left: A great blue heron glides across the river during an Ashby Gap excursion. Photo courtesy of Bill Stiebel.
22
Adventures | From page 21
In addition to owning Ashby Gap Adventures, Kelble recently launched Front Royal River Adventures, a canoe, kayak, and inner tube business. Their grand opening was on June 28. For more details, visit frontroyalriveradventures.com
More information about Ashby Gap Adventures can be found at ashbygapadventures.com . For trips offered to Sala mander guests, visit salamanderresort.com. ML
A group floats down the river. Photo courtesy of Jeff Kelble.
LOCAL FARRIER
Bank where you breathe.
CaN’T-miss exHibiTs iN HuNT CouNTry THis summer
Written by Shayda Windle
“OCEAN DREAMS” AT THE BYRNE GALLERY
The ocean is calling even from Hunt Country. Though we are several hours from the nearest beach, you can take a trip to the seashore with the “Ocean Dreams” exhibit taking place at The Byrne Gallery this summer. “Ocean Dreams” features a stunning collection by local artists Jeffrey Kibler, Shawn Hennesy, Stuart Hindle, and Regina Miele, showcasing their interpretation of the ocean. From the picturesque shores of the Chesapeake Bay to the vast expanses of the Atlantic Ocean, each artwork invites viewers on a journey of exploration and contemplation. “Ocean Dreams” is on display until the end of August. Continue reading for more information on the featured artists.
JEFFREY KIBLER
An artist his whole life, Jeffrey Kibler draws endless inspiration from the ever-shifting vistas of land meeting sea. Of his work, Kibler says, “I always look at my surroundings and focus on details, such as the close-up of a flower, a portion of the human form, portraits, hands, or the collision of the sea, sky, and sand. I believe the detail of shadow on fabric, a leaf, or the body makes the art come alive.”
Among the highlights of his upcoming exhibition are two striking pieces, each measuring 36 inches square: “Ft. Lauderdale in February” and “7 PM Rehoboth Beach” These works, alongside three others, offer viewers a captivating glimpse
into Kibler’s profound connection with coastal environments and his adept ability to capture their essence on canvas.
SHAWN HENNESY
Shawn Hennesy, son of World War II veteran and revered artist Gerald Hennesy, continues his family’s artistic legacy with a showcase of his mesmerizing oceanscapes. Hennesy is excited to share his favorite subject: beach scenes. “I love the sea and shore, especially in the morning when the sun rises and casts a warm glow,” he says. “I try to capture the peaceful feeling I have in those moments through my art.”
Exhibits | Page 25
Left: “Ft. Lauderdale in February,” oil on canvas, 36 x 36 inches, Jeffrey Kibler. Middle: “To the Beach,” oil on canvas, 16 x 24 inches, Shawn Hennesy. Right: “Morning Reflections,” oil on canvas, 36 x 36 inches, Stuart Hindle.
Exhibits | From page 24
STUART HINDLE
Stuart Hindle, a contemporary impressionist realist from Vienna, Virginia, presents “Morning Reflections,” a 36-by-36-inch oil on canvas. Inspired by morning encounters with the Lewes and Rehoboth landscapes, Hindle meticulously crafts scenes capturing the ethereal beauty of dawn. Using her own photographs as guides, she employs intricate brushwork to infuse her artwork with detailed realism.
She shares, “I used to wake up at 5 a.m. and take pictures of the sunrises. The ocean changes every day, the light is different every morning, and you never know what you’re going to get. If there are
clouds, it is more beautiful.”
REGINA MIELE
Inspired by a study abroad experience at the birthplace of the Renaissance, Regina Miele began her career as an artist with intensive studio training in painting, drawing, sculpture, and theory. In her work, Miele employs traditional materials and enjoys exploring various mediums.
“I switch between different mediums when I paint and sometimes use watercolors for color testing,” she explains. “Right now, I’m completely focused on pastels. Sometimes I draw in charcoal before returning to a painting.” Her versatility extends to painting cityscapes, interiors, and portraits, demonstrating her multifaceted talent.
“NATIVE VOICES OF LOUDOUN COUNTY: PAST & PRESENT” WITH BLUEMONT HERITAGE
Join the people of Loudoun County for an interactive exhibit dedicated to honoring the history, culture, and invaluable contributions of local Native American communities — both past and present. Held at the Plaster Museum of Bluemont Heritage in the historic E.E. Lake Store in Bluemont, this captivating experience takes place every Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m. from now until October 13.
Visitors will discover the vibrant legacy and celebrate the enduring presence of the Indigenous peoples of Loudoun County. This exhibit offers the opportunity to engage with interactive displays, delight in kids’ activities, explore arts and crafts, and partake in captivating storytelling sessions. On July 7 and 28, René Locklear White, a Lumbee Native American and a co-founder and president of the Native American Church of Virginia, will lead guided tours of the exhibit. She shares, “Understanding and appreciating our Indigenous cultures is vital to recognizing the diverse fabric of our democracy and land that we all call home.” For further information, visit harvestgathering.org Parking is available at the Bluemont Post Office.
Exhibits | Page 26
tive Voices” exhibit. Photos by Caroline Gray.
Top: “Golden Sands,” oil on gold leaf, 12 x 9 inches, by Regina Miele. Middle: René Locklear White. Bottom: Inside the “Na-
“‘HONORING THE POINT’: THE GWYNNE MCDEVITT SPORTING COLLECTION” AT THE NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY & MUSEUM
Exhibits | From page 25
Throughout her storied life, Gwynne Garbisch McDevitt pursued a love of sporting culture, curating an impressive collection of sporting art to include her beloved Gordon setters, English setters, and Tennessee walking horses. McDevitt, granddaughter of Walter B. Chrysler — the business mogul who founded the Chrysler Corporation — spent many days filled with horseback riding and wildfowl shooting on the preserve he established. She foxhunted with both Radnor Hunt and Pickering Hunt in Pennsylvania until the early 1980s, when she became a dedicated bird dog breeder and handler and established Doubledee Farm and Kennels in Newtown Square with her sporting animals.
“Honoring the Point” pays homage to the art of field trials, where dogs guided by a handler compete in pairs to find game birds. According to the American Kennel Club’s Field Trial Rules and Standard Procedure for Pointing Breeds, “honoring” occurs “when a dog stops immediately or within a few steps, usually in a pointing stance, upon observing a bracemate on point.”
More importantly, “A dog that honors naturally, requiring no command to stop, must be given more credit for bird work than a dog requiring a command.” Field trials are based on these rules and reward dogs that display flawless manners. It was a sport McDevitt was so passionate about that she wrote a love letter to her champion Gordon setter, Dare, when he died.
McDevitt’s collection includes 84 paintings, watercolors, prints, sculptures, and a weather vane created by a variety of 19th- and 20th-century American, British, and French sporting artists who excelled at authentically portraying their subjects. It is a visual journey that transports viewers from the fields of Pennsylvania to English foxhunting territory, and even to polar-bear-inhabited ice caps. The NSLM invites you to experience this collection, on display until September 15. It will also be available as a virtual tour.
In addition to this expansive collection, the NSLM is honored to have the artworks of classically trained Jack Boul on display — an extraordinary artist who, now 97 years old, found beauty in painting the disappearing countryside of Virginia and Maryland. Boul’s work en plein air in-
cludes marvelous painted images of cows, chickens, and barnyard animals in different positions. He returns to them time and again because they are timeless subjects. “It is one of the few things I can think of that you have complete control over. You do it, you make it, and it’s over,” Boul once said. Be sure to stop by his exhibit on the second floor of the NSLM this summer to see a variety of his artwork dating from 1965 to 2022. Visitors will also have a chance to hear commentary from Eric Denker, a senior lecturer at the National Gallery of Art, and watch an interview with Boul to gain insight into his work and process. Find out more at nationalsporting.org
Exhibits | Page 27
Top left: “Gwynne at Doubledee Farm,” 1989, Robert Kennedy Abbett (American, 1926-2015). Oil on board, 23 7/8 x 36 inches. Top right: “Setters on Point,” n.d., Edmund Henry Osthaus (German/American, 1858-1928). Oil on canvas, 26 1/4 x 40 1/4 inches. Bottom right: “Gordon Setter Head Studies,” n.d., Arthur Wardle (English, 1860-1949). Oil on canvas, 18 x 13 7/8 inches. Images courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum and Estate of Gwynne McDevitt, 2023.
SANDRA FORBUSH ON DISPLAY AT THE MUSEUM OF HOUNDS & HUNTING NORTH AMERICA
Exhibits | From page 26
Beginning July 20, The Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America will exhibit a collection of paintings by the acclaimed artist and former horsewoman Sandra Massie Forbush. To complement the paintings featured in this exclusive exhibit, memorabilia loaned from locals of the Piedmont region, as well as Forbush’s own collection and her daughter’s, will also be on display.
Of her work, Forbush says, “Horses, dogs, and people — they are all portraits. I have an interest in the expression, the eyes, and character of the individual I’m painting.”
Forbush’s journey as a working artist began after a tragic car accident in 1989, which resulted in a broken back, neck, and ribs. Before the accident, she was a professional horsewoman who competed in sidesaddle events and foxhunted regularly. She also bred Thoroughbred yearlings for exclusive sales and raised broodmares and foals at her Foxhall Farm.
The recovery period marked a turning point in her life, as she pursued her passion for drawing
and took classes at the Corcoran Institute of Art and Northern Virginia Community College. But as Forbush recalls, “Instead of driving long distances to art class once a week, I learned more by staying home and painting.” And that’s what she did. With characteristic passion and persistence, Forbush taught herself various methods and mediums of painting and became a prominent artist, exhibiting in juried shows in Virginia and New York. She maintains private collections across the Piedmont region, while still taking commissions.
Katrina Ryan of the Museum of Hounds & Hunting describes Forbush’s work as “larger than life.” She adds, “She has been through so much with her accident that it is an honor to have her work displayed here."
To learn more about Forbush and her art, visit sandraforbush.com, and for more from the Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America, visit mhhna.org/events-exhibits. There will be an opening reception on July 20. Those interested in attending can book their reservation in advance through MHHNA’s website. ML
Top left: “Lily.” Top right: “Nancy ex. M.F.H. on Latte out with Keswick.” Bottom left: “Shnookums.” Paintings by Sandra Forbush.
SILAS REDD EXPANDS HIS NICHE
Written by Lia Hobel | Photos by Caroline Gray
The white farmhouse façade of Nostalgia Boutique in Purcellville is recognizable to locals and visitors with its grandiose porch dotted with antique furnishings and displays of carefully curated outfits. Inside patrons will find Silas Redd, owner of the vintage women’s clothing and antique furniture store. Just like his shop, he is a staple to the community, known for finding new ways to meet local needs. Over
the past year, Redd has been developing Mister on Main — a new men’s shop located within Nostalgia.
Redd has studied his customers and how men shop compared to women, and strategically makes sure clothing options include varying price points. He also knows the three scenarios for male customers coming in to shop: The one who is interested in fashion and requires no assis-
tance, the one who wants to look nice but doesn’t know how to tie everything together, and lastly, the one who dislikes shopping for clothing and wants to be in and out. Of them all, Redd finds the most fulfillment from using his fashion styling background to help the latter. Take Redd anywhere in the boutique and quiz him on different social occasions, and he can easily pull a look to-
Niche | Page 29
Men’s T-shirts at Mister on Main.
Niche | From page 28
gether. Redd will describe in detail how to properly layer, which pants can go without a belt, and whether to button or unbutton a shirt. That’s the personalized experience that he and his employees offer.
“I’ve seen retail shift over the last five or 10 years. We’ve gone from department stores to shopping online. “And now, I think men, specifically, want to shop easy and local as well as be in and out,” Redd explains.
Unlike Nostalgia, which sells vintage clothing, Mister on Main sells modern menswear. The inventory offers men an easy wardrobe refresh with pops of pattern and colors to elevate any customer’s style. “I would say we have a traditional feel with a modern punch. You can come in here and get chino shorts but they’re going to have embroidered horses on them. Or you can come and get a solid T-shirt, but this cotton doesn’t shrink and it doesn’t fade, so it’s a little bit elevated but accessible.”
As Redd continues to revamp and customize the retail experience, he’s also planted roots for another venture located in the parking lot behind the shop. This spring, Redd took over the reins of the Purcellville Farmers Market. Rather than letting it fade when the previous lead moved on, Redd decided to make sure local artisans and growers had a future doing business in Purcellville.
“I know nothing about farming, but I know I have a space, and … my goal as a business has also always been to provide space for other entrepreneurs and other small businesses. That’s a big mission of mine,” he explains.
Redd says although the Purcellville
Farmers Market is small, it has a bit of everything with no overlap. And that’s intentional. He wants to create a unique experience for the shopper as well as highlight the specialty vendors.
“You look around Loudoun County in general and there are a ton of farmers markets, and they’re big-scale farmers markets, but I think every community likes to have access to those types of things without having to travel far.”
Redd emphasizes that the farmers market in Purcellville, which he describes as a “hub,” is not about him, Nostalgia, or Mister on Main. “It’s something that the community wanted, and as long as I have the space, I will continue to do it.”
Redd, who lives in Winchester, has run Nostalgia for almost a decade and is happy to be part of the growth of Purcellville and support the community.
“I always joke that if this business [were] anywhere else it probably wouldn’t exist. The rental rates would be through the roof,” Redd notes. He adds, “There are so many great things about Purcellville that I think are still being discovered.”
With Redd’s quick wit, knack for style, and support for other entrepreneurs, he’s helping to shape the story of Purcellville’s future and keep residents well dressed. ML
The Purcellville Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m. through October. For a complete list of vendors or to apply to join the lineup, visit purcellvillefarmers.com. The market is located behind Nostalgia Boutique and Mister on Main at 142 E. Main Street.
Top: Shorts with a equestrian flair. Middle: Silas Redd. Bottom: A selection of unique ties.
Scenes from the 171st Upperville
Photos by Caroline Gray
Colt & Horse Show
June 3 - 9, 2024
Photos by Joanne Maisano
Our Favorite Local Gifts for Getting Outside
Photos by Callie Broaddus
“Epic Bike Rides of the Americas,” $35, Available at Middleburg Books
SPF Bag, $35, Available at Zest
Silk Ikat Outdoor Pillows, $175, Available at Atelier Maison
Board Shorts, $38, & WeeFarers, $25, Available at Posh Pixies
Plint 1.5-Liter Watering Can, $50, Available at Nature Composed
Water Lacrosse Set, $24, Available at The PLAYroom
Watercolor Paper Postcards, $10, & Portable Parisian Watercolor Set, $52, Available at Every Little Something
Personalized Recycled Paper Cooler, $69.20 each, Minimum of 12, Available at Premier Promotional Products
Ava Bartolomucci
Irene Boehm
Madison Burget
Caroline Carpenter
Belle Chang
Rocky Cole
Eva Bret Cozby
Camie Devlin
Sarah Ford
Marley Frederick
Moriah Friendly
Bella Fu
Ishika Gupta
Andy Jennings
Maya Kalfon
Adriana Kawpeng
Emma Leonard
Khujusta Naiemy
Kylie Ortega
Grace Pumphrey
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Emily Queen
Gracie Rea
Sofia Ring
Stephanie Rodriguez
Juliana Rose
Emili Rossman
Lema Stanikzai
Elizabeth Viney
Isabella White
George
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIVE MUSIC WITH THE BRAHMAN NOODLES AT LOST BARREL
July 7 | 1 to 4 p.m. | lostbarrel.com
Don’t miss the musical stylings of The Brahman Noodles at Lost Barrel Brewery. Known for their “jug funk” music, a combination of blues, funk, jug band, and Americana, The Brahman Noodles are much loved for their improvisational acoustic sound. Sit back and relax to live music with great beer, hard seltzer, and food provided by Lost Barrel.
PAINT CLUB WITH KIM T. RICHARDS
July 9 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | theartistsinmiddleburg.org
Join Kim T. Richards for a bite-sized painting lesson that will touch on various skills and topics relating to oil and acrylic painting. The class on July 9 will focus on working with water-soluble oils without a solvent. Participants should bring a canvas and any oil or acrylic paint. The class cost $110 per person and reservations are required. They can be made through theartistsinmiddleburg.org
SCAVENGER HUNT: BEATLEMANIA
July 13 - 22 | library.loudoun.gov/middleburg Search the Middleburg Library for items related to iconic songs of The Beatles to win a prize. This all-day event is suitable for ages 5 and up and is a fun activity for a hot summer day. For more information on the event and other similar scavenger hunts at the library this summer, visit library.loudoun.gov/middleburg
FIELDS OF FLOWERS POTTERY SHOW AND SALE
July 13 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | loudounfieldsofflowers.com
Fields of Flowers in Purcellville is hosting a pottery show and sale on July 13. The event will showcase the work of LoCo Potters and include functional pieces like mugs, plates, bowls, casseroles, vases, birdhouses, and platters, as well as works of art. Each item is handmade and decorated. Visitors will have the opportunity to shop one-of-a-kind pieces surrounded by sunflowers, zinnias, daisies, marigolds, dahlias, and more.
For more information, email info@loudounfieldsofflowers.com.
DOG ADOPTION AT OLD BUST HEAD BREWERY
July 13 | 12 to 3 p.m. | oldbusthead.com
Stop by Old Bust Head for the chance to meet your new best friend. Friends of Homeless Animals will be on-site with adoptable dogs. Patchdanas and Love Bites will also be at Old Bust Head offering the opportunity for participants to do some shopping for their new or old furry friends. For more information on the event, visit oldbusthead.com
FOCACCIA BREAD DECORATING CLASS
July 14 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | gatheringspringsfarm.com
Participants will have the opportunity to get creative while decorating freshly baked focaccia bread. Join farmers Sarah Waybright and Pam
Calendar | Page 35
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Calendar | From page 34
Jones to harvest vegetables from the field and then use them to decorate and flavor the focaccia. Bakers of all skill levels are welcome at this workshop. All supplies are included and participants will return home with a loaf of bread. Tickets are $40 per person and can be booked through Eventbrite.
PEAS & GRACE BENEFIT CONCERT
July 14 | 5 to 7 p.m. | gracetheplains.org
Join local musicians Jiamie Pyles and Jacob Pembelton, with special musical guest and Fauquier County Supervisor Ike Broaddus, for a benefit concert at Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains to benefit their Peas & Grace food pantry. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with music slated to start at 5:30 p.m. There is a $10 recommended donation upon entry. For more information on the concert or to sample the music stylings of Jiamie Pyles
and Jacob Pembelton, visit: reverbnation.com/jiamiepyles.
LYNDSIE NICHOLSON AT CHRYSALIS VINEYARDS
July 20 | 2 to 5 p.m. | chrysaliswine.com
Captivating audiences across Virginia and West Virginia for years, Lyndsie Nicholson will bring her pop/country music to Chrysalis Vineyards on July 20. Kick back and enjoy the stunning views, great wine, and a delicious meal at Chrysalis set to the music of Trisha Yearwood, Tom Petty, and more.
VINO & VINYASA AT 8 CHAINS NORTH
July 21 | 10 to 11 a.m. | 8chainsnorth.com
Unwind with an hour-long yoga session led by Cat Greenway. The vinyasa flow is suitable for all levels and will take place in the Compass Rose Room with a spectacular view of the vineyard. After yoga, enjoy a glass of wine (included in the
ticket price) and a bite to eat from the 8 Chains North kitchen. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.
WHITE FORD BRONCO AT TARARA WINERY
July 27 | 6 to 9:30 p.m. | tarara.com
White Ford Bronco, D.C.’s all-‘90s cover band, is coming to Leesburg as part of the Tarara Concert Series. Enjoy the best of ‘90s music from Ace of Base to Weezer. Food trucks will be on-site or families are welcome to bring their own picnic. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Bow Tie Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the arts and education with a focus on single-parent households. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at tararaconcerts.com
For more Hunt Country events, visit MiddleburgLife.com or scan here:
Your Summer Sanctuary
Embrace the essence of summer with immersive experiences at Salamander Spa. Infused with natural elements and inspired by the restorative powers of the scenic Virginia countryside, our bespoke treatments awaken the senses, realign intentions, and nourish the soul. Indulge in customized massages, skincare rituals, renewing sound baths, and private cabanas overlooking the infinity-edge pool.
