Middleburg Life | November 2017

POSTAL CUSTOMER

Volume 34 Issue 13 | November 2017 | middleburglife.com

Presort Std ECRWSS US Postage Permit #75 Fredericksburg, VA

MIDDLEBURG

LI F E Mastering the Hunt + Through a New Lens & Equine Industry: Off to the Races N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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Exquisite, with every amenity. Light filled, high ceilings, top of line materials. Beautiful master suite w/private balcony overlooks pool. Spacious lower level suite w/outside entrance has kitchen, LR, 2BA, office, theater. Outdoor living spaces, in-ground pool, pool house w/bath & kitchen. Perfect for a B&B!

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Quintessential Virginia country house built in 1985 using all period materials to look timeless. This charming home features stone walls, antique floors, 4 Br, 3.5 Ba, 4 beautiful fireplaces. Perfectly sited on 11+ acres overlooking stocked pond. 3 bay garage with 2-BR guest cottage above. Add’l 6 acres avail.

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MIDDLEBURG

LI F E Nov. 2017

middleburglife.com

PUBLISHER Greenhill Media LLC EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elaine Anne Watt COPY EDITOR Rachel Musser ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Alexa Wolff ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Shonna Call, Tonya Harding Jennifer Richards, Andrea Ryder CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mollie Bailey, Heidi Baumstark, Callie Broaddus, Kerry Phelps Dale, Morgan Hensley, Kaitlin Hill, Dulcy Hooper, Richard Hooper, Carolyn Kincaid, Peter Milligan, Chelsea Rose Moore, Kate Parker, Anne Sraders, Summer Stanley CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Callie Broaddus, Eryn Gable, Doug Gehlsen, Tony Gibson Crowell Hadden, Joanne Maisano Karen Monroe, Julie Napear ART DIRECTION: Focal Point Creative DESIGNER: Elisa Hernandez PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Nicky Marshok ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE Greenhill Media, LLC 114 W. Washington Street, Ste. 102 Middleburg, VA 20117 540.687.5950 | info@middleburglife.com All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising.

Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Ashburn, Boyce, Charlottesville, Delaplane, Dulles, Front Royal, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, The Plains, Rectortown, Upperville, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.

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FIND US ON Instagram @middleburglife Twitter @middleburglife Facebook.com/middleburglife ON THE COVER Maryalice L. Matheson-Thomas, Fieldmaster for the “Second Field” of the Orange County Hunt is seen at a meet at Glen Welby.

Photo by Joanne Maisano ON THIS PAGE Sydney riding sidesaddle on her pony Sadie Photo by Joanne Maisano

Not so silent, but oh what a night.

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ON THE

COVER

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his month’s cover is graced by Maryalice L. Matheson-Thomas, who currently holds the position of Fieldmaster for the “Second Field” of the Orange County Hunt, also referred to as the non-jumping field, and who has held many positions over her nearly 40 years in the sport. Seated on a Cleveland Bay mare named Penrhyn Seline, who was imported a few years ago from the Penrhyn Stud in Wales as a broodmare, she is at a meet at Glen Welby dressed in Ratcatcher, which is the informal riding attire used during the “Cubbing” season, more properly referred to as Fall Hunting, which for most Virginia hunts begins in mid-September and runs through the beginning of November.

Consisting of muted tones of tweeds or linen, generally brown field boots and stock ties of color or neckties with a collared shirt, dressing for the hunt or “turnout” is very important as you and your horse are presented and should be of the highest quality to show respect to the landowners that give permission for the hunt to use their land.

“Formal Season,” generally beginning in November and stretching through to March, requires coats of black or blue, black dress boots without lacing common in field boots, breeches of canary, beige or white for gents and staff. More particularly, Maryalice says: “Generally Staff and Masters are in “Pinque” (scarlet), some hunts allow male members who have earned ‘colors’ to wear Scarlet or in the case of the Piedmont Hunt, navy with gold collars.”

Maryalice leads anywhere from 6 to 40

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riders of various ages and abilities over private lands, following the hounds, often at great speed and around and over obstacles in pursuit of where the hounds have “accounted” for a fox. Cubbing season specifically relates to when the training of young hounds (do not call them dogs, and they do not bark but “speak”), young fox and young horses begins.

Acknowledging that some controversy exists over the practice of fox hunting, Maryalice reminds us that fox are actually predators to area farms’ chickens and even young lambs. “If one is to actually watch ‘the chase,’ the fox takes great amusement in eluding the big, dumb hounds, and it is truly sport to all involved. A good fox hunting horse will take his rider, adept or not across Hill and Dale to follow the music of the hounds

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and enjoy the chase with the herd.”

Our community has many hands involved in the world of hunting, from land preservation, local employment retailers to farmers, veterinarians, blacksmiths, artists, photographers, stable hands and many more.

Maryalice says, “fox hunting has probably protected more land in Fauquier County and other surrounding counties from developers” than anything else.

Her passion and joy in the sport, appreciation for the preserved land and open spaces protected for generations to come, and her connection to the horses and hounds that make it possible is apparent in every story she tells. In her words, “it is medicine for the soul.” ML Photo by Joanne Maisano.

PET OF THE MONTH Meet Bo, Age 2 Pitbull Terrier, Adult Male (large) Hey, hey, hey! My name is Bo and I am a 2 year-old Pitbull mix. I came from Houston, Texas, after Hurricane Harvey passed through. Before the storm, I was found wandering the streets and a citizen took me in and kept me there with her and her dogs. All of the streets around us flooded, and her yard was only accessible by boat.

Lucky for me, a dispatch crew came by and worked with me to convince me to get into their boat! They took me back to Virginia where I have now been neutered and vaccinated. I am only 2 years old, and I have a long life ahead of me, so come find out if I would be perfect in your family!

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Article courtesy of Melanie Burch, Director of Development. For more information, call 540-364-3272 or visit middleburghumane.org.

Middleburg Humane Foundation operates a private, 4.5-acre farm shelter located in Marshall, Virginia. It is their goal to provide a haven for abused, neglected, and at-risk animals, both large and small.

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LAND TRUST OF VIRGINIA IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Elaine Anne Watt

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here are many hands at work in our community to preserve the beautiful landscape and history around us. October 6th provided an opportunity to recognize and motivate conservationists to continue the important work of the Land Trust of Virginia through the donation of easements and support of the land already entrusted to their stewardship.

Claude Schoch and Andrea Ross hosted the event at Claude’s beautiful estate Barton Oaks in The Plains. Chairman of the Board of Trustees Chris Dematatis profusely thanked the many landowners, dedicated employees and volunteers who have propelled the work of the LTV in Loudoun and Fauquier Counties. He proudly announced that “the northernmost part of Fauquier County and southwestern area of Loudoun County contain the highest concentration in the nation of properties protected by the donation of easements.”

Present were Sally Price, Executive Director of the LTV, Ashton Cole, Director of Conservation and Stewardship, Kerry Roszel, Development Associate, Isa Bryant, Stewardship manager, Clare Rodenberg, volunteer mapping expert for the LTV’s Blue Ridge Conservation Initiative, and many other

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volunteers and supporters working to achieve the goals of the LTV. Over 12,000 acres of the Land Trust of Virginia’s 16,300 total acres under easement are to be found in our area, and LTV continues to work closely with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, the Piedmont Environmental Council, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Civil War Trust, and other local and state-wide organizations to identify and preserve the rich heritage and beautiful landscapes around us. Just recently, the LTV received the “Scenic Vistas Award” for their body of work over the past 25 years to protect open spaces.

LT V also co-holds conser vation easements with the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust, the Capital Region Land Conservancy and the Blue Ridge Foothills Conservancy.

In addition to the obvious benefits of protecting and conserving our land for future generations, landowners can take advantage of tax incentives and relief in many ways from

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the use of easements during their lifetimes.

Andrea Ross and others are working with LTV to assist those interested in furthering the work of the LTV to realize their goals.

As the sun set over the mountains in the distance and the fields close at hand, there was a deep realization of the privilege we share in being trustees of the land. ML For more information call 540-687-8441 or visit www.landtrustva.org.

Top: View from Barton Oaks. Preserving open spaces and beautiful vistas is at the heart of LTV's work.

Bottom: Dr. Cindy Thompson and Andrea Ross.

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Base-15 -- Trim to 10.00”Wx14.00”D -- CMYK

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THEN & THERE

THE GREAT FOXHOUND MATCH NOVEMBER - 1905

Story and photos by Richard Hooper

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t was a huge event, both sporting and social.

The two-week contest between Harry Worcester Smith’s American foxhounds and A. Henry Higginson’s English foxhounds promised to be a pivotal event settling the debate on which was the better hound. Both men were current masters of hunts that they had established: the Grafton Hounds for Smith and the Middlesex Hounds for Higginson.

The contest derived from a series of letters

by Smith, Higginson and Higginson’s friend Julian Ingersoll Chamberlain that began appearing in January of 1905 in the sporting journal Rider and Driver. The letters continued until challenges were extended and accepted. Bets were laid, and it was agreed that the contest would take place in Virginia’s Hunt Country with epicenters of Middleburg and Upperville. Because both Smith’s and Higginson’s hunts were located in Massachusetts, this was considered to be a neutral territory. Each pack was to hunt a total of six times on alternate days. It began on the first day of November, 1905, at Welbourne, about midway between the two towns.

Horses, hounds, masters, hunt servants, grooms, the press, judges of the match and men and women looking for good hunting and a chance to observe this momentous occasion had made their way by train, switching to carriages and horseback for the final leg to their accommodations. On the first day, there were members of some 26 hunts from the United States and Canada. The ranks were swollen by locals who, of course, were waiting with great anticipation.

Smith was advocating for the establishment of a breed standard for the American foxhound, arguing that it was a more capable hound at chasing the fox in America. Among its other qualities, he believed in its independent hunting ability, voice and speed.

Higginson, cutting to the chase (so to speak), did not believe that an American foxhound even existed. To him a pack of six couples of “so-called American hounds” could look like 12 different breeds. Twenty-five Foxhound | Page 9

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Foxhound | From page 8 years later, they still were being derided by Irish author and MFH Edith Somerville, who thought that an Irish setter, “neatly shaved, and the permanent wave obliterated,” might pass as an American foxhound.

“There is no animal in the world, not even the horse, that has had as much attention paid to its breeding as the foxhound has had in England,” wrote Frank Sherman Peer in “Cross Country with Horse and Hound” in 1902. It was a system and history that Higginson as-

cribed to. In his mind there was no room for improvement. Higginson wanted his hounds to hunt as a tight pack. He believed in uniformity in appearance (something that Smith was actually breeding for) but to such an extent that observers at the match could not distinguish one of Higginson’s hounds from another. In both appearance and method, it was something akin to a regiment of British redcoats in tight battle formation on one hand and a bunch of colonialists skirting from tree to tree on the other.

The Middlesex Hounds hunted first. Hig-

ginson had two broken ribs and did not hunt that first day. Smith broke a bone in his foot on Day 3, while following Higginson’s pack, but he continued to hunt each day. The ladies hunted aside. However, on the fourth day for Middlesex, Mrs. Tom Pierce, a friend of Higginson’s, came out riding aside. As luck would have it, she crashed and broke a tooth. Undaunted, she summoned for a backup horse and continued after hounds.

It seems as if anyone could have joined Foxhound | Page 10

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Foxhound | From page 9 the field. The same day that Mrs. Pierce had her accident, the hounds ran past a farmer patching his roof. Unable to resist the lure of the music, he scrabbled off the roof, saddled his horse and took off in pursuit.

Amid all the sport and entertainment, the sideline of horsetrading was flourishing and, as usual, not without incident. Courtland Smith, Harry’s brother who was not hunting because of a broken collarbone, brought

suit against both Higginson and Mrs. Pierce regarding horse transactions. In addition, Higginson was fined for trespassing.

As to hounds, Smith’s contingent thought that the English hounds were slow and lacked initiative, while Higginson’s camp thought the American hounds were undisciplined, no better than if they had run riot. After all, on Grafton’s first day the American hound’s enthusiasm took them so swiftly away from the field they were neither seen nor heard for

over two hours.

The rules stated that the pack that killed a fox would be declared the winner. Alas, the only fox that was killed had been someone’s pet, and there was a question as to whether this had been an accident or a deliberate plant intended to fix the outcome.

It was judged not to count. Since no wild fox had been killed, it was up to the judges, who had been appointed before the match to each side’s satisfaction, to determine the outcome. So, who won?

After the last day’s hunt, participants and observers met at Welbourne, where a decision by the team of judges would be declared.

With so many factors to consider, they took their time that evening in reaching a conclusion. In the end, they declared Smith’s American foxhounds the winner.

But with the acrimony that existed between Higginson and Smith, it wasn’t really over.

In 1907, due to the driving force of Harry Worcester Smith, the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America was formed and Smith became its president for several years. He was followed by none other than Higginson.

It was under the auspices of Higginson that the association produced its first stud book in 1915, The English Foxhound Stud Book of America listing only English foxhounds. It was not until the fifth volume in 1930 that it became The Foxhound Kennel Stud Book of America, the first to list American and crossbred foxhounds as well as the English. ML A very lively and detailed narrative of the match can be found in “The Great Hound Match of 1905” by Martha Wolfe, Lyons Press: 1916.

As well as the books mentioned above, the Harry Worcester Smith Archives at the National Sporting Library & Museum, “The Story of American Foxhunting” by J. Blan van Urk, Derrydale Press: 1941 and “The States Through Irish Eyes” by Edith Somerville, Houghton Mifllin Co.: 1930 were consulted.

Page 8: A. Henry Higginson. From The Hunts of the United States and Canada by A. Henry Higginson and Julian Ingersoll Chamberlain (1908), (courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum). Page 9, left: Welbourne.

The location for the first meet and the judges decision for The Great Hound Match.

Page 9, right: Harry Worcester Smith dressed for hunting. From The Hunts of the United States and Canada by A. Henry Higginson and Julian Ingersoll Chamberlain (1908), (courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum). Page 10: Harry Worcester Smith in his library. A watercolor by Richard Benno Adam, 1928 (courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum).

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MIDD LIFE AD - Oct. 2017_Layout 1 10/19/17 1:53 PM Page 1

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THE 63RD RUNNING OF

THE VIRGINIA FALL RACES Photos by Joanne Maisano

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From the Virginia Fall Races website, the “Race Committee consists of local steeplechasing and fox hunting enthusiasts who wish to preserve the countryside and the place of horse sports in it.”

We hope you enjoy the photos and will plan on coming out for the next running in 2018! ML

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Photos: 1. 4th race Kieran Norris on Worried Man, winner of NSLM Cup. 2. 1st race The Bon Nouvel winner Shane Crimin on Reporter. Owned by Beverly Steinman and trained by Doug Fout.

3. James P. McCormick Memorial winner Byron J. Moorcroft on Secret Soul. Owned-trained by Jeff Murphy. 4. Randolph D. Rouse Memorial. Winning rider Ross Geraghty on Officer Sydney.

Owned by Rosbrian Farm and trained by Ricky Hendricks. 5. Theodora A. Randolph Cup winner Shane Crimin on Paddy’s Crown. Owned by Mrs. Magalen Bryant and trained

by Richard Valentine.

A Thanksgiving to remember.

Join us on November 23 for an indulgent Thanksgiving buffet with family and friends. Enjoy an endless array of offerings with live prime rib carving, a decadent seafood display and seasonal desserts.

Served in the Middleburg Ballroom from 11:00am to 6:00pm. $98 per person, $45 per child.

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

For Thanksgiving reservations, please call 844.842.3198.

Timber Frame Horse Barns HANDS-ON APPROACH TO QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP

Few things are more rewarding than building a horse barn from the ground up. Timber by timber, each piece is cut, milled and carved with fine precision. We know that the success of an authentic timber frame structure rests on expert engineering, quality materials and craftsmen who are skilled in traditional post and beam construction techniques. At B&D Builders, we build it right, or we don’t build it.

Request a quote or meeting with Ben or Daniel 717.687.0292 CustomBarnBuilding.com

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GOODSTONE INN & RESTAURANT

Celebrates New Conservatory Story and photos by Elaine Anne Watt

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A delightfully crisp fall evening on October 12th welcomed guests to the Goodstone Inn & Restaurant’s celebration of the opening of their gorgeous new conservatory, where Executive Chef Eric Smith and his team will serve up both traditional and innovative fare. Owners Mark and Shelley Betts warmly greeted everyone as we sampled champagne cocktails and savored the passed hors d’oeuvres.

Present were Clint Good, the architect for the grandly designed space and Matthew Bowe, whose design/build firm executed the project. Several long-time friends of the Inn had travelled back to Middleburg to be present for the festivities.

Mark Betts expressed his joy in having left behind his previous career to embrace his dream of owning Goodstone and sharing his passion for hospitality with others. He thanked

Emily Miller, Eric Smith and all his dedicated employees for making Goodstone an exceptional destination for anything from dinner to an extended stay.

The artwork and special touches evident throughout the space reflected the time and thought spent on making the conservatory an inviting interior for guests. Be sure to add a visit there to your calendar soon! ML Photos: 1. Mark and Shelley Betts, Goodstone Owners. 2. Executive Chef Eric Smith on right with Sous Chef Tommy Layman on left.

3. Goodstone Conservatory with painting entitled Good Friend by artist Edmund Henry Osthaus, American 1858-1928.

4. Goodstone Owner Mark Betts with Clint Good, Architect and Matthew Bowe of Matthew Bowe Design Build.

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Hunt Country Jewelers 40 GLITTERING YEARS

By Richard Hooper

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hen Edwin (Ed) Cutshall was waiting to attend dentistry school,

a year away, his mother, a dental assistant, gave him tools to give him a head start. The tools were used for making crowns and other delicate, precision work. Making a crown employs the lost wax process of casting – so does casting gold for jewelry.

Edwin experimented with the tools, but did not become a dentist. He became a jeweler.

The first two years he worked from his basement and in 1979, he and his wife, Claire, opened a shop in Great Falls, Virginia. They were there for 10 years, designing their own pieces, and selling other jewelry lines as well as watches.

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At the beginning, Ed designed and created and Claire kept books and attended to the myriad other chores of any business.

They met and connected aesthetically with

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the master gemstone cutter Sean Sweeney, who had cut stones for the Smithsonian and the Harvard Museum. They became good Jewelers | Page 17

- HUNT COUNTRY JEWELERS Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Sunday noon-5 p.m.

105 E. Main St., Purcellville VA 20132 540-338-8050 | huntcountry.com

Jewelers | From page 16 friends, and Sweeney coaxed Claire into the craft of cutting.

The inspiration and driving force behind Hunt Country Jewelers has always been the creation of original pieces. So, when the Cutshall’s relocated in 1990 to a showroom in Hillsboro, North Carolina, they left behind the watches and other merchandise. The new showroom displayed only their creations.

They still design, cut color gemstones and make their own pieces, among only a handful that do all the steps in-house from start to finish. Because diamonds demand a different cutting technique, cutting them is the only thing not done in-house.

Everything is custom. Taking it a step further, they will design jewelry for customers’ specific needs and occasions.

Some years ago, a customer visited the shop with a cushion-shaped diamond cut into facets like a geodesic dome. It needed a repair and was sent out to a specialist.

It was a Jubilee cut, acquiring its name after a pattern on a very large diamond known as the Jubilee Diamond, which in turn had been named in honor of Queen Victoria in 1897 during the Jubilee Celebration of her 60 years on the throne. The facets of this cut end at a point, rather than the flat surface known as a table, at the top of the stone. When the diamond came back, the repair was perfect and the sparkle was exceptional.

Ed and Claire loved the glitter of this cut, but there was a shaft of darkness through the diamond from the apex to the base, which concerned them. Working together, they designed a new cut that added 16 facets to the crown of a traditional pattern and made the table much smaller.

The new shape added brilliance and sparkle, and eliminated the dark shaft of the Jubilee cut. They named their pattern the Jubilant Crown and patented it in 2002.

The Jubilant Crown and other cuts are, of course, not limited to diamonds. Hunt Country Jewelers loves working with colored gemstones and are knowledgeable about unusual, exotic stones.

They are considered experts in bringing out the “phenomena” of the stone, its brilliance and saturation of color, “allowing it to perform to its full potential.”

Ed and Claire’s son, Logan, grew up in the shop, crawling around under the display cases. Like his father, he had initially planned on a career other than jewelry, attending Virginia Tech, studying geology and math.

But the luster of gems and jewelry proved too strong and he is now following his parents lead. Logan’s wife, Carolyn, is also part of the team.

In 2013, the store was moved to its current location in Purcellville, Virginia, where their loyal clients have continued to follow them. Like the Cutshalls, the customers are multigenerational: their children are now coming in for jewelry. As one woman said recently when seeing Logan’s and Carolyn’s son crawling under a display case, “I remember seeing Logan doing that years ago.”

Perhaps she had a vision not just of the past, but of a future generation of Cutshall jewelers. ML Page 16, top: Claire, Carolyn and Logan Cutshall (photo by Richard Hooper). Page 16, bottom: Piece Name - After the Hunt. Yellow, white, and rose gold brooch with diamonds and emeralds. Originally designed as a local Hunt auction item, this fox has safely escaped the hounds and is resting in his thicket. Limited edition, no two ever alike.

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MIKE DUPUY: ENTER THE WORLD OF FALCONRY

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Story and photos by Elaine Anne Watt

Y

ou may have been one of those children who fell in love with the book, “My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George. A right of passage for many of us, this story tells of a boy and his falcon surviving on a mountain in the Catskills of New York. Unlike others, Mike Dupuy remembers it as the pivotal inspiration for turning his lifelong fascination with birds into a “materialized dream” of becoming a falconer.

Haitian born and having moved to New York when he was 5, Mike’s father and stepmother encouraged his interest through hunting and fishing trips in the Catskills and by arranging for Mike to meet prominent scholars and advocates for wildlife. He credits none other than Dr. Heinz Meng, the scientist who successfully bred peregrine falcons in captivity and reintroduced them into the wild after their existence was threatened by the pesticide DDT, as one of the most influential people in his life.

Mike recalls that he started telling people at age 9 that he was going to be a falconer, and he trapped his first bird at age 16 soon after he’d gotten a car. In Haiti, birds of prey were called “mal-fini,” meaning “bad end.”

But that is a bad rap for a raptor. They are simply doing what comes naturally, and the sport of falconry is thousands of years old and an art form that has amazing parallels to the equestrian world.

After many years as a hard-driving sales professional in the top echelons of a Fortune 50 company’s team, Mike could no longer resist the lure of his real love. Now living in Pennsylvania after years in the D.C. area, he has turned his entrepreneurial spirit into three thriving businesses, Mike Dupuy Falconry, where he teaches and lectures on the Art and Sport of Falconry, Mike Dupuy Hawk Food, and Mike Dupuy Media Services, a company dedicated to capturing the stories of falconers and raptors. These businesses allow him the privilege of working with these incredible creatures and sharing his knowledge with others.

Anyone can try to be a falconer, but to develop the symbiotic relationship to do so successfully is a craft to be honed carefully.

Mike describes a highly nuanced process of adapting the bird through positive reinforcement to trained behavior. He emphasizes the trained rather than the tamed, because falcons and birds of prey are never stripped of their wild nature. So beware your heart if you dare to consider them your pet. Theirs is not the loyalty of a domesticated animal; think of yourself instead as their meal ticket and sugar daddy. You provide them the filet mignon on their schedule or they may well fly away at their next opportunity. “A great day is when you simply get the bird back on your fist,” said Mike.

But, before we talk about the process, let’s first address some of the fallacies

surrounding the sport. It is not cruel. Falconry is highly regulated, requiring licensure and adherence to complicated state and federal rules. Seventy to 90 percent of hawks die in their first year of life in the wild, whether they are caught in wires, killed while hunting or just as a result of the survival of the fittest. Only the best hunters make it through the winter, and a 12-year-old raptor would be incredibly rare in the wild. In captivity, they can live to be 30, and one of Mike’s birds laid

bird and then engage it in the dance of getting to know one another and adapting to the cues that will forge a bond.

Mike says, “I don’t pretend that I have a personal relationship with the bird, but I hone in on the signals it is sending me. Whether it likes you is irrelevant.”

If this sounds heartless, you couldn’t be more wrong. Mike loves his birds unconditionally; he just recognizes that their allegiance is to what he provides, not to his

an egg at age 24. They need to eat almost daily, storing their food in their crop where it is slowly absorbed until only the hair and sometimes bones remain to be spit out as pellets.

The phrase “I’m fed up with you” comes from falconry as does “you’re looking haggard,” the appearance of falcons after they mature to adulthood and molt. Besides the legal imperatives to be responsible handlers, falconers are self-policing, holding themselves to highly ethical standards.

So, how does one become a falconer? You need to be taught the skills to first trap your

feelings for them or theirs for him. He recounts the story of when he brought his friend, British falconer Jemima Parry-Jones, to meet Barbara DuPont at her home here in Hunt Country during a Virginia Falconers Association event. On their way through Maryland, his Goshawk failed to return to him during a stopover there. They waited as long as they could, but they had to get to Virginia that evening. The next morning, Mike and his wife Christine hurried back to Hunt Valley, Maryland, following the

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Falconry | From page 19 signal being transmitted from Nevada, a bird they had raised from a baby. They weren’t hearing any bells indicating movement, and their worst fears were confirmed when they found what was left of “their baby” under a bush having been eaten by a resident Redtailed hawk. He admits to a good deal of “blubbering” thereafter.

Mike shared another particularly close affection for Cinnamon, a Red-tailed hawk immortalized by National Geographic. He said one of his best days was when she caught a squirrel, a rabbit and a pheasant within a 24hour period. One of his worst days was when he lost her. Cinnamon helped teach him “a humbleness of heart that if anything goes wrong, it’s my responsibility.”

In falconry, you must be sponsored by either a General or Master Falconer and serve an apprenticeship. Beginners start out by trapping a Kestrel or Red-tailed hawk.

Using a rodent or pigeon as bait, Mike calls this “sky-fishing,” as you attract the hawk to the bait which is wearing a vest with nooses that entangle the hawk. The hawk will flip on its back in order to defend itself, giving you the opportunity to pick it up and hood it. Within 15 minutes of being hooded, the hawk will become totally calm. Those first 24 to 48 hours, however, are difficult as the predator has become the prey. Eventually the bird realizes that it hasn’t been harmed, and then you can start tempting it with food. The moment the bird looks down to eat, Mike

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blows a whistle, beginning the association of the whistle with food that will become the foundation for training.

Mike refers to “operator error.” If something goes wrong at any point in the training, it is his fault. “I’m supposed to stay out of the way, to nurture and shape the bird to be its best possible version of its natural self in the wild,” he says.

An important part of the training process is identifying the bird’s “flying weight,” which is the weight at which the bird is hungry enough to return to the falconer on command. If a raptor is over its “flying weight,” it is considered “fat.” A bird that is “fat” does not need food, so it will not be responsive to training techniques. If a bird is under its “flying weight,” it is “too low” and won’t have enough energy to fly. At the beginning of each training session, Mike weighs and records the bird’s weight. He then observes and records the bird’s behavior during the session and whether it was responsive to training or not.

Through a Pavlovian response and reward system, the raptor is trained on a leash to get further and further from the fist and back, to a perch, to a tree line and back, etc. until you’ve reinforced the behavior necessary for the sport. And Mike finds honesty and beauty in the process.

“They take no pleasure in the kill,” he says.

“They are doing what they were born to do.

They kill only to eat and feed their babies.

Nothing is wasted, and they keep a lot of animals in check through their activities.”

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Mike has shared a ten-plus year friendship with Jim Fowler, co-host of the original Mutual of Omaha Wild Kingdom, as well as many other personal and professional relationships forged through his love of falconry and the out-of-doors. So what motivates him to continue his work? Two things. He recognizes that “there is always more to learn and room to grow, and there is nothing you can conceive in your mind that can make it as real as doing it. It grounds you in a life and death way that will shape you.” Secondly, “I want to take public speaking to a larger platform to share culture through the lens of a falconer.”

To watch Mike interact with his birds is fascinating. And, to watch them take flight is breath-taking. To see them return seems miraculous. Another natural wonder. ML If you want to learn more, Mike suggests: Visit: http://themodernapprentice.com, a website by his friend, Lydia Ash. Read: “A Rage for Falcons,” one of his favorite books that gets readers into the head of a falconer, by Stephen Bodio.

C onsu lt: http://w w w.mi ke dupuyf a l c o n r y. c o m / f a l c o n r y / h o w - t o - g e t started-in-falconry.

Visit www.mikedupuyfalconry.com; or call 570-837-1551.

Page 18: Mike Dupry and his Gyr-Saker Falcon, Athena. Page 19: Apollo pre-flight. Page 20: Mike Dupuy and his male Tiercel Gyr-Saker Falcon, Apollo.

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THE SECRET LIFE

Middleburg Film Festival Goers

By Chelsea Rose Moore

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ngela Cross has been attending the Middleburg Film Festival since its second year. As a resident of Herndon and a self-described “huge film buff,” she watches every film nominated for an Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA Award, and an Independent Spirit Award. Her fascination with movies began in high school when she and her friends would travel to Pittsburgh to watch the movies nominated for Oscars. Thirty years later, she is still just as fascinated.

“Movies are an insight into human life and

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different human perspectives,” she said. “It’s an incredible thing to make art. I just want to support and encourage it.”

She loves that festivals provide a vehicle for watching international films, documentaries, and independent films, as they are harder to watch before the award shows.

During the festival, she watched over a dozen films in three days, and even brought her own seat cushion – a trait of a truly seasoned film festival attendee.

But for others, like Chris McLaughlin, this was her first time at the festival. As a former first and second grade teacher, she loves movies – but more specifically, loves storytelling.

She serves as the Fairfax West Chair of Read-

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ing is Fundamental, a nonprofit organization providing underprivileged children with free books and tools to help them become lifelong readers. She loves when films open the door to conversation afterwards.

She spoke about Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird, a film that hit particularly close to home for her. As a child, she attended Catholic school, just like Lady Bird, and her daughter lived in Sacramento, California, where the film takes place. She found it interesting that the film touched on the “permanency of your roots,” and that humans often “come back to what is in your heart.”

Secret Life | Page 23

Secret Life | From page 22 The festival showcased films that touched on powerful and relevant concepts, all hitting at the heart of what it means to be a human being. For many attendees, the films brought back memories and opened the door to discussions about their own lives. In particular, Lady Bird seemed to resonate with many viewers, as it touched on the theme of mother-daughter relationships and the often-rocky transition into adulthood. For Middleburg resident Gail Zehner and her daughter Claire, Lady Bird brought tears and a “painful recognition.”

“Watching it was kind of comforting,” Claire said, noting that she had moved out of her parent’s home the weekend before the festival. As a 21-year-old, she found Lady Bird’s experiences with her mother served as a reassuring reminder that many mother-daughter relationships are the same. “When you go through it, it feels so lonely and it feels like nobody gets it, but everyone gets it – we just don’t really talk about it together. Watching this film makes it feel less lonely.”

For Claire’s mother, Gail, the film was an honest portrayal of “the truth of this time in everyone’s lives, as mothers and daughters. In this film, you could see the love on both sides,

and you could see the reason there was a disconnect. It was almost painful for me.”

As the films provided insights into the human experience, they served as poignant reminders to viewers. In some cases, they offered valuable lessons viewers might not encounter otherwise in their lives. In other cases, the films discussed familiar issues that comforted viewers by allowing them to realize they aren’t alone in their experiences and feelings.

Sharon Sheffield, from Franklin, Virginia, has been attending the festival since its beginning, and says the festival grows bigger and better each year. She convinced her friend Itrish Scott-Brown, from Williamsburg, Virginia, to attend the festival with her for the first time. They’ve been friends for 15 years, and used the festival as an excuse to have a relaxing girls’ getaway at Salamander Resort & Spa. “After seeing these movies and hearing other people’s stories, I feel like we all have a story. Some people tell their stories better than others. Some people express their stories in the form of music or comedy or drama. But we all have stories. We all connect in some way,” Sheffield said. “Each year, I just go home [from the festival] feeling so different.”

For her, the film Loveless, Russia’s submission for Best Foreign Language Oscar, was a chilling reminder to love our children more.

“We need to be more aware of where they are. We need to tell them we love them, because you never know.” With an overarching dark theme, the movie left her feeling angry at the leading characters, and was a strong critique of Russian culture and the selfishness that permeates the lives of many adults there, she said.

“There are different parts of every movie I can relate to, in my own life,” said ScottBrown, “This festival is well-worth it.”

Jeremiah Rankin and his wife, Crystal, attended the festival from New York City for the first time. “Films have an amazing ability to intertwine fictional stories with themes from our everyday reality,” he said. “Movies are not powerful because of the entertainment factor, but because they tell stories about our lives.

They showcase emotion, pain, adventure, and joy in a deeply personal way. They give a voice to our experiences. They provide chilling lessons and paint beautiful truths. Everyone’s life is a movie script.” ML Photo by Tony Gibson.

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CELEBRATING

Middleburg Film Festival

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Photos: 1. Kelyn Soong of the Washington Post interviews Directors Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton of Battle of the Sexes (photo by Tony Gibson). 2. Ann Hornaday and writer and director Dee Rees discuss the making of Mudbound in a Q&A session following Friday evening’s sold out screening at Salamander Resort and Spa (photo by Callie Broaddus). 3. Passionate interest from the audience during the opening night Q & A presentation of The Darkest Hour (photo by Tony Gibson). 4. Greta Gerwig of Lady Bird (photo by Tony Gibson). 5. Movie Critic Tim Appelo interviews Mr. James Ivory of Call Me By Your Name (photo by Tony Gibson). 6. Audience sits spellbound as Ms. Ann Hornaday of the Washington Post and Director Dee Rees discuss the movie Mudbound (photo by Tony Gibson).

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Photos: 1. Britell honored with the Distinguished Composer Award (photo by Tony Gibson). 2. Nicholas Britell, Composer-Moonlight, Free State of Jones (photo by Tony Gibson). 3. Nicholas Britell performs with Caitlin Sullivan on cello, Tim Fain on violin and Jan Wagner (conductor) leading the Shenandoah Conservatory Symphony Orchestra (photo by Tony Gibson). 4. Scott Cooper, Director of the movie Hostile (photo by Tony Gibson). 5. Meltdown-Global Warning, with Dr. Tony Leiserowitz, Photographer, Lynn Davis, Director, Frederick Golding and Producer Mike Tolin (not all pictured) (photo by Tony Gibson). 6. Colleagues Caitlin Sullivan on cello and Tim Fain on violin gave amazing performances of this incredibly moving work (photo by Tony Gibson).

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MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL (Continued from page 25)

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Photos: 1. View of the Opening Reception for the Middleburg Film Festival at Salamander Resort & Spa (photo by Rebekah Pizana). 2. The Washington Post’s Ann Hornaday signs a copy of her book, Talking Pictures How to Watch Movies, for MFF Program Director Connie White. The book signing took place Friday afternoon on the patio at Salamander Resort and Spa (photo by Callie Broaddus). 3. Festival guests Austin and Stephanie attended Saturday night's Farm-to-Table dinner at Greenhill Winery (photo by Callie Broaddus). 4. Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris after a screening and Q&A of their film Battle of the Sexes at the Hill School (photo by Callie Broaddus). 5. Wine & Conversation at Greenhill Winery & Vineyards. Master class with Film Composers Nicholas Britell and Marco Beltrami (photo by Tony Gibson).

6. Helen Huang, Connie White, and Giardy Ritz at Saturday night's Farm-to-Table dinner, which preceded the Centerpiece Film screening of Lady Bird (photo by Callie Broaddus). 7. A stunning cake, inspired by the festival's logo, created by Salamander Executive Pastry Chef Jason Reaves (photo by Rebekah Pizana).

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Photos: 1. Equine decor topped the tables already laden with cheesecakes, tarts, cake pops and more (photo by Callie Broaddus). 2. Film Festival Sponsors (Ms. Christina Mathers); Dario & WendyMarquez, Sally Andrew Pyne, Christina Mather, Claire Abbott and Robert Toth (photo by Tony Gibson). 3. Attendees at Saturday night's 5-Year Anniversary Gala Party enjoyed an evening of good food, wine, bubbly, and live music (photo by Callie Broaddus). 4. Ms. Sheila Johnson enjoying the Saturday evening gala with a host of special guests and sponsors (photo by Tony Gibson). 5. Attendees at Saturday night's 5-Year Anniversary Gala Party having a great time (photo by Callie Broaddus). 6. Ms. Sheila Johnson with the Team from The Darkest Hour, Mr. Ben Mendelsohn, Ms. Lisa Bruce and Mr. Anthony McCarten (photo by Tony Gibson).

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CELEBRATION OF WOMEN IN FILM

By Kerry Phelps Dale

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hen Middleburg Film Festival Founder Sheila Johnson, Executive Director Susan Koch and Programming Director Connie White went in search of a slate of excellent films to screen, their bounty included some of the best films of the year, and seven of the 27, a good 26 percent, were directed by women. Others were documentaries and narratives about iconic women, and still more had women protagonists played by some of the most esteemed female actors in the business.

In an industry predominantly white and male, it seems improbable to find the quality and quantity of female-focused films screened at MFF. After all, in 2016 of the top 250 films (measured by box office gross) women made up only 17 percent of all directors, writers, producers, executive producers, editors and cinematographers combined.

The fifth annual Middleburg Film

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Festival told a different story, albeit anecdotal, thanks to the vision of the women running the event and this year’s abundance of great films made by women.

In an industry historically and still dominated by men, because half of movie audiences holding a ticket are female, a better understanding of the market may be driving a change in the industry landscape.

“When we talk about financing for female films and people of color, we talk about it in an almost charitable way,” said Greta Gerwig, “Lady Bird” writer/director and one of the panelists of the Sunday Morning Conversation: 2017: The Year of Women Directors held at Salamander Resort’s Library. “There is a market for all kinds of people. Hollywood is a dollar driven place—it’s not like we are trying to be good people. This will make you money.”

“You are looking at legends—women who have broken the glass ceiling,” said MFF founder Sheila Johnson in introducing the

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You are looking at legends - women who have broken the glass ceiling.

- Sheila Johnson panel of women directors.

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Celebration | From page 28 making in Hollywood, though not commensurate with available talent, from the director’s chair to behind the camera.

It began, however, with a discussion of the recent sexual assault allegations regarding movie mogul Harvey Weinstein. Gerwig pondered the number and talent of the young women “who were driven out of the business early on because of this thing that happened to them. Who were they going to tell?”

“The history of film is that of men photographing beautiful women,” said Gerwig. “It’s not just that, but it’s a big part of it.”

This year’s films had several examples of how a female director usually approaches her subject and story differently than a man.

Margaret Betts said about her film "Novitiate" that she is "more interested in being that woman at that point rather than being voyeuristic" in the sexual scenes.

When shooting the intimate scenes in “Battle of the Sexes,” the film about the legendary tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, Valerie Faris along with husband and co-director Jonathan Dayton, “tried to create empathy for her (Billie Jean King) and what she was going through (discovering her sexuality). What did that feel like for her?”

“White male Hollywood is easy to find, but it takes time to search out different voices,” said Programming Director Connie White.

This year, at least, the female representative films were ripe for the picking. There was no need to sort through a crop of films hoping to find a female director—the festival’s films simply were some of the choicest films of 2017.

In addition to the directors of “Mudbound,” “Lady Bird,” “Battle of the Sexes” and “Novitiate,” directors with films screened at MFF were Petra Volpe with “The Divine Order,” Co-director Agnes Varda with “Faces Places,” and MFF Executive Director Susan Koch with “Music Got Me Here,” the documentary about Middleburg’s own Forrest Allen, Tom Sweitzer and “A Place to Be.” “Mudbound,” this year’s Audience Award recipient, is an epic depiction of post WWll lower Mississippi and two men returned from war, one white, one black, who face many struggles and brutalities in a society still firmly entrenched in racism.

After the first of two screenings of “Mudbound,” Director Dee Rees, this year’s recipient of the Visionary Award, discussed her creative approach of adapting the novel, “Mudbound,” to film for the full house of moviegoers. She mirrored the lives of the two families and illustrated the inheritance of each and compared the battle zone of the war to that of a racially divided south. “Sometimes the battle at home is bloodier,” said Rees.

Rees embraced women in her crew in all facets. She said, “When you see a woman on a set, she had to battle 50 people to

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get it. For a man, it might be his first film.

I didn’t want to be the woman who didn’t give women a chance.”

The festival’s slate also showcased some of the year’s best female performances: Mary J. Blige and Carey Mulligan in “Mudbound,” Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf in “Lady Bird,” Margot Robbie and Allison Janney in “I, Tonya,” Annette Benning in “Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool,” Emma Stone in “Battle of the Sexes,” Julianne Moore and Millicent Simmonds in “Wonderstruck,” Frances McDormand in “Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri,” Diane Kruger in “In the Fade,” Daniela Viega in “A Fantastic Woman,” and Claire Foy in “Breathe.”

Also prevalent and powerful in the festival were documentaries about iconic women, Jane (Jane Goodall) and Joan Didion: “The Center Will Hold.” “Meltdown,” a film about

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climate change, featured the work of renowned photographer, Lynn Davis.

It was clear to attendees and organizers of the 2017 MFF that the film industry thrives financially and artistically when women are invited in.

Reflecting on the success of the film festival and its inspiring theme celebrating women, White said, “Hopefully this is more than a moment.”

Watch for it—this year’s Oscar nominations should be awash with women. ML Page 28: Dee Rees engaged with the audience (photo by Tony Gibson). Page 30, top: Director Valerie Faris of “Battle of the Sexes” (photo by Tony Gibson). Page 30, bottom: Susan Koch, Greta Gerwig, Sheila Johnson and Ann Hornaday (photo by Tony Gibson).

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Oakendale Farm is the epitome of an exquisite Virginia hunt country estate in prime Orange County Hunt territory. From the William Lawrence Bottomley designed Manor house to the meticulously manicured gardens, grounds, dependencies and the hundreds of acres of surrounding pastures with protected view-sheds.

333 acres @ $8,990,000 or 837 acres @ $17,990,000

Within 5 miles of Middleburg, 316.85 acres of very private beautiful open rolling fields with frontage on Little River and views in all directions. Mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory with great ride out. Open Space Easement. $5,756,500

ALDIE – OATLAND VIEWS off of Oatlands Road - 271 ACRES divided into 11 Parcels ranging in size from 13 – 41 Acres with private road frontage on Clear Creek Lane. 10 of the 11 parcels have wells and Certification Letters for 4 Bedroom septics. Land protected by Loudoun County Open Space Easement. $5,500,000.00

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Middleburg~A graceful & charming 5 bedroom French Country home is set amongst nearly 40 serene acres enhanced by majestic trees, rolling lawns and fenced paddocks. This wonderful horse property also includes a 7 stall center-aisle barn with office, additional 4 stall barn with apartment, indoor arena, and tremendous ride out potential. Located in the OCH Territory. $3,200,000

Breathtaking mountain views and glistening spring fed 10 acre lake, create a magical setting for this stunning historic estate. Encompassing over 180 gorgeous acres features include a stone and stucco 16 room residence with an ultra modern gourmet kitchen, new tiled baths and separate 2 bedroom guest wing. The 10 stall stable & new tennis court complete this fabulous estate. $2,995,000

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A picturesque and tranquil retreat nestled on 158+ acres in pristine Rappahannock County. At the end of the private drive is the historic Stone residence, c. 1745 with additional stone cottage for guests or office and tucked into the woods, beyond the home, is a charming and beautifully restored 2 bedroom log cabin. Gardens, lawn, barns, paddocks and tremendous ride out potential provide an outdoor haven. $1,845,000

Absolutely exquisite 4 Bedroom, 4 Bath Colonial on 25 acres offering privacy & seclusion in a picture booksetting. The 3 level main residence includes 4 fireplaces, pine floors, Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, study & a fabulous gourmet kitchen, all in pristine condition.The manicured grounds incl. a charming 2 Bedroom Guest house, free form pool, great 4 stall barn, 5 paddocks, large equipment building, blue stone arena. $1,795,000

The 176 Acre Estate of Norwood is approx. 1 mile east of Berryville. An allee of mature Maple trees line the long driveway of the manor house, c. 1819, listed in the National Register as, “One of Clarke County’s most elegant, intact examples of the Federal style of architecture.” The brick home offers 11’ ceiling height, original flooring, moldings, gracious entertaining rooms, 3 bedrooms and 3+ baths. $1,700,000

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Great elevation, fantastic views, open land, woodlands and river frontage on the Rappahannock River. 726.66 acres in 14 parcels, all of which are 50 acres or larger.

Accessed from Hume Road and from Black Rock Ford. Mixed game for hunting. Great opportunity for tax credits. $2,979,306

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Lovely 2 story Brick Colonial on Landmark Road. 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Baths on 13 acres. 2 car garage and fenced for horses. Great ride-out. $1,150,000 Orange County Hunt terrirory.

The lovely 22.8 Acre Ridgeview Farm offers a private, 4 bedroom residence sited on a knoll, with spacious rooms and views into the trees that border Little River. Located in prime Orange County Hunt territory the horse facilities include a 6 stall barn with tack room and wash stall, machine shed, run in shed and 4 beautiful board fenced paddocks, fields and round pen. VOF Easement. $1,095,000

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379.75 Acres on the north side of oatlands road between rt. 15 and snickersville turnpike. currently divided into 16 building Lots developed under the Low Density Development option. homesites range in size from 13.83 Acres – 38.12 Acres. open space easement in place with potential for tax credits. $7,500,000.00

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

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World class equestrian facility comprised of 115 Acres in the OCH Territory. The U shaped complex encompasses an 80’ x 180’ lighted indoor riding arena connected by a breezeway to the 12 stall center-aisle barn and extraordinary living and entertaining quarters overlooking the outdoor ring. Additional structures include tenant houses and large heated $4,750,000 equipment barn.

This grand 101 acre equestrian estate in the Warrenton Hunt Territory and is within easy reach of Washington DC. Elegant custom-built home with 11,000 sf, smart-wired, 3 finished levels-all accessible by elevator. Features include 12-foot ceilings, heart pine floors and granite and Viking kitchen. Guest cottage, Barn, 2 streams, Stocked pond.

Stunning countryside retreat. $3,475,000

c.1823, with a stunning tree lined entrance, offers one of the grand manor homes in the famed horse country of Upperville. Recently renovated, the home offers wonderful indoor and outdoor living areas. Porches, gardens, barns, paddocks, riding arena, pond, pool and magnificent views from the Bull Run to Blue Ridge Mountains. $3,200,000

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Stone posts and walls mark the entrance to the 133 acre country estate of Landmark. As the driveway gently rises, curves and then circles in front of the handsome twostory stone manor house, one notices that the home is sited perfectly to enjoy the expansive mountain views from the Bull Run to the Blue Ridge. The setting for this four bedroom, four bath residence is further heightened by the massive boxwoods and the stately trees. $2,790,000

Impeccably maintained, this is an exquisite 118 acre horse farm with ten fields and paddocks of 4 board fencing, gently rolling land and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains with glimpses of Skyline Drive. In addition to the stucco and stone main residence, there are guest and tenant homes, numerous barns and run-ins to house 25 horses comfortably, and an indoor dressage ring. $2,750,000

145+ acres of land in sought after location on Mountville Road near Foxcroft School. Several home sites with wonderful views and vistas yet extremely private, half wooded and half pasture with over 2,000’ of Goose Creek frontage. Minutes from Middleburg with easy access to Dulles International Airport and Washington DC. Middleburg Hunt Territory. $2,465,250

Liberty hALL

10 s. mADisoN st.

Paris~Circa 1770, Lovely Stone and Stucco Farmhouse sits at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, 20+ acres surrounded

by Protected Lands, Incredible Views, Meticulous exterior renovations include Re-Pointed Stonework, Metal Roof, 2 Large Additions, Covered Porch, Basement, Buried Electric, Well and Septic, Fully Fenced, Mature Trees, Boxwoods, Ready for all your interior finishes. $1,550,000

Rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Handsome Building ~ 25 Yr Established Business~Turn-Key & Inventory in the center of Historic Middleburg. Stunning upscale home items, crystal, unique gifts, cards, custom stationery, gourmet chocolates and much more. Approx. ½ of inventory is offsite and included in sale. $1,400,000 Rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

Beautiful rolling land with excellent views of the Blue Ridge just outside of Upperville. 93+ Acres in a great location. This is a portion of Tax ID#:656382092000 and is subject to Loudoun County approval. $1,397,173

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POTTS MILL ROAD - 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. 3600 views.

316.85 acres $5,800,000 179.1 acres $3,222,000 137.74 acres $2,534,500 BEARS DEN - 151.61 acres in 3 parcels. (50.49, 50.48 and 50.64) Can be sold individually as well (50+ acre parcels) One largely wooded parcel, other two parcels share a pond and have wonderful views. Great location off of Leeds Manor Rd. and only minutes from Warrenton. $353,000 & $454,000

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MARSHALL ~ Commercial Land: Great opportunity to purchase property in the town of Marshall. Zoned C-1, over 1.6 acres of land. Great location next to Oak View Bank, minutes from I-66 and seconds from Route 17. $750,000

Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601

ROKEBY ROAD ~ Upperville 1.84 acre parcel with 3 Bedroom septic Certificate on hand. Mostly wooded with fantastic views to the east! Great opportunity to own in a prime location! $299,999 Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601

ThoMAs AnD TAlBoT ReAl esTATe (540) 687-6500

middleburg, Virginia 20118 N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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DAVID TWIGGS:

PROMOTING THE THRILL OF THE HUNT

By Heidi Baumstark Photos courtesy of Masters of Foxhounds Association

F

ox hu nt i ng t h r ive s on inter woven relationships—healthy, vibrant connections between hunters, horses, foxhounds, landowners and the public.

Formed in 1907, the Masters of Foxhounds Association (MFHA) does just that, helping foxhunters stay connected. As the governing body of organized foxhunting in the United States and Canada, their focus is on promoting and preserving the sport of mounted hunting with hounds and maintaining proper standards of conduct. One of their goals is to grow foxhunting. Currently, there are 151 active MFHA member hunts in 37 states (26 of those are in Virginia) and three Canadian provinces. MFHA has approximately 6,000 subscribing members.

In April, David Twiggs became the principal leader of MFHA as executive director. He also serves as the organization’s Keeper of the Stud Book, which tracks breeding pedigrees of North American foxhounds. Hounds are bred to be “biddable” (obedient/compliant) and to hunt together with other hounds. After a successful career preserving outdoor sports, Twiggs—an AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) land-use planner—has redeveloped large-scale rural resorts into sporting destinations.

“I’ve always been interested in rural landuse policy,” he says. “After the economic downfall in 2007, I began to ask, ‘How can we add value to the open space? How can we preserve it?’”

One way is foxhunting, which requires a vast amount of land. “Lots of urban people foxhunt. It’s their dose of the countryside,” Twiggs says.

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So much about foxhunting is about relationships between the participants and the working animals: the pack of hounds and the horses. Sometimes there are only six or seven hunters in the field; other times, on special occasions, the number can peak to more than 100. The hounds work together to sniff out the fox, and the huntsmen follow the hounds.

It’s an orchestration that flows.

Twiggs spent much of his early years on his grandparents’ cattle farm in western North Carolina. He has a background in bird dog sports involving a type of hunting dog used to point and retrieve game birds. “Back then, I wasn’t into mounted hunting,” he says.

“Now, foxhunting is my primary sport.”

That exposure to the sporting life in North Carolina laid the path for his love of all field sports and bred an appreciation for farmers and the land.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7

Twiggs is now on a mission to inspire and educate others about the value of foxhunting.

One way to accomplish this will be through MFHA’s headquarters coming to Middleburg.

Soon, they will roll out the welcome mat in a 200-year-old stone building known as the Chancellor or Allen House named after Lorman Chancellor, the town’s Civil War-era mayor; it has also been occupied by family members of the current mayor, Betsey Allen Davis, and is located on the east side of town on Route 50. After renovations in 2018, Twiggs and his staff will move from their current Millwood office.

“This historic house has its own pedigree,” Twiggs says. “We’re extremely pleased to move in the middle of Virginia’s equine community.”

The office will include conference rooms, Hunt | Page 36

Mount Mount Gordon Gordon Farm Farm

Red Red Gate Gate Farm Farm

Crest Crest Hill Hill Farm Farm

Mayapple Mayapple Farm Farm

128 128 acres acres and and immaculate immaculate 33 level, level, 13,000+ 13,000+ sqsq ftft stone stone && shingle shinglemain mainhouse house••55BR BR••88FP FP••Exceptional Exceptionalfinishes finisheson on every everyfloor floor••Caterer's Caterer'skitchen kitchen••Elevator Elevator••Spa Spa••Separate Separate guest guestcottage cottage••Pool Pool••Farm Farmmanager managerresidence residence••33additional additional tenant tenant houses houses •• 12 12 stall stall center-aisle center-aisle stable stable •• Pond Pond •• Extraordinary Extraordinary land land w/incomparable w/incomparable views views extending extending beyond beyond the theBlue BlueRidge RidgeMts Mts••Orange OrangeCounty CountyHunt Hunt Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930

149 149acres acresalong alongthe thehistoric historicand andscenic scenicbyway bywaybetween betweenAldie Aldie and andLeesburg Leesburg••Open, Open,usable usableand androlling rollingfarmland farmland••22ponds, ponds, windmill, windmill,lots lotsofofroad roadfrontage frontage••5/6 5/6BR BRVictorian Victorianfarmhouse farmhouse plus plusconverted convertedwater watertower tower••Charming Charmingsetting, setting,large largeporches, porches, beautiful beautifulspecimen specimentrees treesand andlarge largegarden gardenside sidepool pool••First Firsttime time offering offeringinin50+ 50+years years••Not NotininConservation ConservationEasement Easement Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905 Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930

203 203 immaculately immaculately maintained maintained acres acres w/appox w/appox 11 mile mile river river frontage frontage••Elegant Elegantstone stone&&clapboard clapboardhouse house••55BR, BR,44full full33 half half baths baths •• Gourmet Gourmet kitchen kitchen •• Spacious Spacious family family room room •• Gunnite Gunnite pool pool w/stunning w/stunning unobstructed unobstructed views views ofof Blue Blue Ridge Ridge Mtns Mtns •• Situated Situated amongst amongst protected protected properties properties inin Old Old Dominion DominionHunt Hunt••55stall stallbarn barn••VOF VOFeasement easement••residence residence set setback back1/2 1/2mile milefrom fromroad road Alix AlixCoolidge Coolidge (703) (703)625-1724 625-1724

Mayapple Mayapple Farm", Farm", purist purist delight delight •• Original Original portion portion ofof house house built builtinin1790 1790ininPreston PrestonCity, City,CT CT••House Housewas wasdismantled dismantledand and rebuilt rebuiltatatcurrent currentsite site••Detail Detailofofwork workisismuseum museumquality quality••Log Log wing wingmoved movedtotosite sitefrom fromwestern westernVirginia Virginiacirca circa1830 1830••44BR, BR,44 full fullBA, BA,22half halfBA, BA,99FP FP&&detached detached2-car 2-cargarage garage••Historic Historic stone stone bank bank barn barn and and log log shed shed moved moved from from Leesburg, Leesburg, VA. VA. •• Private, Private,minutes minutesfrom fromtown town••Frontage Frontageon onGoose GooseCreek.

Creek.

Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703)609-1905 (703)609-1905

Belvedere Belvedere

Marley Marley Grange Grange

Gileswood Gileswood Farm Farm

Prime PrimeAtoka AtokaRoad Roadlocation location••155.08 155.08rolling rolling&&mostly mostlyuseable useable acres acres••Beautiful Beautifulsetting, setting,tree treelined lineddrive drive••Main Mainhouse housecirca circa 1837 1837 •• 44 bedrooms, bedrooms, 44 baths, baths, 44 fireplaces fireplaces •• Improvements Improvements include include44tenant tenanthouses, houses,33barns, barns,indoor indoorand andoutdoor outdoorriding riding arenas arenas Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905

Gracious Gracioushome homewith with55BRs BRs••Gourmet Gourmetkitchen kitchen••Two-story Two-story floor-to-ceiling floor-to-ceilingwindow windowdisplay displayofofthe theBlue BlueRidge RidgeMountains Mountains•• 33FPs, FPs,coffered cofferedceilings, ceilings,random randomwidth widthrustic rusticcherry cherryfloors floors•• Large Largehome homeoffice, office,gym, gym,rec recroom, room,multiple multipleporches porchesand andpatios patios ••Three Threefinished finishedstories, stories,approx. approx.10,000 10,000sf.sf.••Carriage Carriagehouse house•• Garage Garage••Privately Privatelysituated situatedon on27 27acres acres Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930 Margaret MargaretCarroll Carroll (540) (540)454-0650 454-0650

Understated Understatedelegance elegance••Finely Finelyappointed appointedhome homebuilt builtinin1997 1997 on on76 76acres acres••44bedrooms, bedrooms,33baths, baths,22half halfbaths, baths,5600+ 5600+sq. sq.ft.ft.

••Very Veryprivate private••10 10stall stallbarn barn••224 224ft.ft.XX128 128ft.ft.blue bluestone stone ring ring •• Fine Fine horse horse property property •• Choice Choice ride-out ride-out •• InIn conservation conservation easement, easement, bordered bordered by by farms farms inin conservation conservation easement easement Tom TomCammack Cammack (540) (540)247-5408 247-5408

Immaculate Immaculate custom-built custom-built craftsman craftsman home home with with gorgeous gorgeous finishes finishes •• Gourmet Gourmet kitchen kitchen •• Vaulted Vaulted ceilings ceilings •• Open Openfloor floorplan planmaximizes maximizeslight light&&views views••1st 1stfloor floormaster master suite suite •• Home Home office office •• Large Large family family room room opens opens toto impressive impressivepool poolarea areawith withcabana cabanaand andextensive extensivestone stoneterrace terrace overlooking overlookingneighboring neighboringlake lake••Large Largebarn barneasily easilybuilt builtout outfor for horses horses••Land Landfenced fenced&&prepared preparedfor for22acre acrevineyard vineyard Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930

Bust Bust Head Head Road Road

111 111 E. E. Washington Washington St. St.

Stoneway Stoneway

Winchester Winchester Road Road

82.69 82.69acres acres••Mostly Mostlywooded, wooded,mountain mountainviews, views,bold boldstream streaminin very very protected protected area area •• Conservation Conservation easement easement •• Can Can not not be be subdivided subdivided••Prime PrimeOrange OrangeCounty CountyHunt Huntlocation location••Halfway Halfway between betweenMiddleburg Middleburgand andThe ThePlains Plains Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905

Stone Stonebuilding buildingcirca circa1800 1800••Completely Completelyupdated updated••New Newroof roof•• Pine Pine floors floors •• Corner Corner lot lot •• 66 offices offices •• Parking Parking lot lot inin rear rear •• Shows Showswell well Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905

Well Welldesigned designedstucco stuccosingle singlestory story••33BR BR••44full fullBA BA••22half half BA BA••Master Masterbedroom bedroomw/his w/hisand andhers hersdressing dressingroom/bathroom room/bathroom en en suite suite •• Library Library •• Sun-filled Sun-filled sitting sitting room-dining room-dining room room •• Kitchen Kitchenwith withbreakfast breakfastnook nookand andchef’s chef’scaliber caliberappliances appliances••22 FP FP •• Large Large mudroom mudroom off off 22 car car garage garage •• Cutting Cutting garden garden •• Nestled Nestled on on 10 10 private private wooded wooded acres acres inin sought sought after after Orange Orange County Countyhunt hunt Alix AlixCoolidge Coolidge (703) (703)625-1724 625-1724

1.69 1.69 acres acres with with frontage frontage on on Route Route 17, 17, right right off off Route Route 66, 66, currently currently zoned zoned R-4 R-4 •• New New Marshall Marshall code code zoning zoning calls calls for for Gateway GatewayDistrict, District,potential potentialoffice officebuilding, building,etc. etc.••Solid Solidstone stone house house on on property property •• Sold Sold inin "As "As Is" Is" condition condition •• Owner Owner licensed licensedreal realestate estateagent agentininVA VA Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905

Cobbler Cobbler Springs Springs

Firethorn Firethorn Lane Lane

Woodward Woodward Road Road

Springsbury Springsbury Land Land

Very Very private private setting, setting, minutes minutes from from Rt. Rt. 66 66 •• Hilltop Hilltop setting setting with withmountain mountainviews viewsand andshared sharedfrontage frontageon on5+ 5+acre acrelake lake•• Colonial Colonialbuilt builtinin1988, 1988,redone redoneinin2016 2016••55bedrooms bedrooms••551/2 1/2 baths baths •• 22 fireplaces fireplaces •• 2-car 2-car garage garage •• large large rear rear deck, deck, front front porch porch&&gardens gardens••6,000 6,000sfsfofofliving livingspace spaceon on12.03 12.03acres acres•• Master Master suite suite on on the the main main level. level. Old Old Dominion Dominion Hunt Hunt Territory.

Territory.

Paul PaulMacMahon MacMahon (703) (703)609-1905 609-1905

Main Mainresidence residencerecently recentlyrenovated renovated••Large Largemaster mastersuite suiteand and two twoadditional additionalgenerous generoussized sizedbedrooms, bedrooms,each eachwith withtheir theirown own full fullbath bath••Large Largegourmet gourmetkitchen kitchen••Lovely Lovelyliving livingand anddining dining rooms rooms••Wrap Wraparound aroundporches porcheswith withwestern westernviews viewsfrom fromthe the elevated elevatedsite site••Charming Charmingguest guesthouse house••Beautiful Beautifulgardens gardensand and stonework stonework Alix AlixCoolidge Coolidge (703) (703)625-1724 625-1724 Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon 540) 540)454-1930 454-1930

1-level 1-levelliving livingininthis thisenergy energyefficient efficienthome home••10+ 10+acres acresjust just22 miles milesfrom fromI66 I66••33BR, BR,2.5 2.5bath bathhouse housew/2 w/2car cargarage, garage,office, office, sunken sunkenliving livingroom roomw/10' w/10'ceiling ceiling••28'x14' 28'x14'sunroom sunroomw/views w/viewsofof garden garden && rock rock out out cropping cropping •• Over Over sized sized 38'x40' 38'x40' three three bay bay heated heatedworkshop workshopw/auto w/autolift lift••Great Greatfor forcollectors collectors••22small small barns barns&&22paddocks paddocks&&spring springfed fedpond pond••Very Verywell wellbuilt built&& very verywell wellmaintained maintainedproperty property Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930

91 91acres acresbordering borderingthe thetown townofofBerryville Berryville••Currently Currentlyused usedasasaa cattle cattlefarml farml••Lovely Lovelyold oldbarn barnand andopen openusable usableland land••Fenced Fenced and and crossed crossed fenced, fenced, beautiful beautiful elevated elevated building building sites sites •• Bold Bold stream streammeanders meandersthrough throughthe theproperty property••Property Propertycan cannot notbe be subdivided. subdivided.

Helen HelenMacMahon MacMahon (540) (540)454-1930 454-1930

The The Plains, Plains, Virginia Virginia $11,750,000 $11,750,000

Merry Merry Chase Chase Farm Farm Marshall, Marshall, Virginia Virginia $2,800,000 $2,800,000

The The Plains, Plains, Virginia Virginia $1,325,000 $1,325,000

Marshall, Marshall, Virginia Virginia $869,000 $869,000

Aldie, Aldie, Virginia Virginia $3,750,000 $3,750,000

Middleburg, Middleburg, Virginia Virginia $2,195,000 $2,195,000

Middleburg, Middleburg, Virginia Virginia $1,250,000 $1,250,000

The The Plains, Plains, Virginia Virginia $795,000 $795,000

info@sheridanmacmahon.com info@sheridanmacmahon.com www.sheridanmacmahon.com www.sheridanmacmahon.com

Hume, Hume, Virginia Virginia $3,600,000 $3,600,000

Millwood, Millwood, Virginia Virginia $1,995,000 $1,995,000

The The Plains, Plains, Virginia Virginia $1,195,000 $1,195,000

Marshall, Marshall, Virginia Virginia $790,000 $790,000

Middleburg, Middleburg, Virginia Virginia $3,400,000 $3,400,000

Purcellville, Purcellville, Virginia Virginia $1,950,000 $1,950,000

Marshall, Marshall, Virginia Virginia $895,000 $895,000

Berryville, Berryville, Virginia Virginia $732,800 $732,800

110 110 East East Washington Washington Street Street •• PP.O. .O. Box Box 1380 1380 Middleburg, Middleburg, Virginia Virginia 20118 20118 (540) (540) 687-5588 687-5588 N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7

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Hunt | From page 34 space for educational programs and the MFHA Foundation, which was formed in 2000 and works with MFHA and other organizations that promote land conservation and research on training hounds and horses.

A museum will showcase foxhunting artifacts and historical memorabilia. George Washington foxhunted in the Virginia Piedmont during his surveying days, as did Lord Fairfax. The sport has been active in the Commonwealth since the late 17th century and was used for military training.

“The museum will be a platform to educate legislatures and visitors to learn about the rural point of view,” says Twiggs. “One of our goals is to educate new property owners on how to create and conserve habitat.”

Foxhunting fuels a nature of neighborliness and also boosts the local economy.

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“It’s a very social sport,” Twiggs says, “so retail businesses, tourism, hotel, and food industries all benefit.”

And, it’s family-oriented. Twiggs, his wife, Ashley, and their two teenage daughters, Salem and CeCe, are avid foxhunters. Ashley adds, “Our girls have hunted with people of all ages. Since they were young, they’ve learned everyone plays a role. It’s a lifetime family sport, and I’m thankful to raise our girls as part of something so meaningful.”

Salem, 16, says, “I love foxhunting. But in my opinion, the most important aspect is the connections and relationships. I’ve made the most lifelong friends, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.”

CeCe, 13, says, “I love spending time riding with other people in my flight and watching all the different things in nature and hearing the hounds work.”

Twiggs says, “To grow foxhunting, we

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7

need to champion that rural point of view so it can continue for generations.”

For foxhunters, connections and relationships rule. ML To learn more about MFHA and MFHA Foundation, visit www.mfha.com. Contact information is 540-955-5680 and office@mfha. com. MFHA membership is open to anyone who cares about the future of country lifestyles. Subscribing members receive a quarterly magazine, Covertside; issues can be found at www.ecovertside.net.

Page 34: David and Ashley Twiggs with their daughters, CeCe and Salem. All four are active in the sport of foxhunting. Page 36, top: CeCe and Salem Twiggs with foxhunting hounds. Page 36, bottom left: David and Ashley Twiggs enjoy foxhunting in the Virginia countryside. Page 36, bottom right: David mounted on horse (in red jacket).

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Loudoun Fairfax Hunt Ball Photos by Joanne Maisano

1

2

3

4 The Masters & the Board of Governors of the Loudoun Fairfax Hunt welcomed members and guests to their annual gala on October 6th at River Creek Country Club in Leesburg, Virginia. The ladies and gents were smartly turned out to enjoy dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions with entertainment by Suit & Tie. It was a wonderful start to the busy Hunt season ahead. ML

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Photos: 1. Jerry Fishback-JT MFH and Donna Rodgers. 2. Karyn Wilson, Dr. Nancy Voytosh DVM, and Thao Duong.

3. Katie Pittinger and Andrew MacSwain.

4. Lewis Parker, Sharon Parker, Lara Major and Eric Major. 5. Nadine and Carroll Galvin from Loudoun Hunt. 6. Scott Van Pelt and Heather Heider.

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WILD KINGDOM IN THE PLAINS Story and photos by Elaine Anne Watt

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On Saturday, October 21st, friends and supporters of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, hosted by the engaging Stephanie Arne, gathered at the home of Michael and Oya Macey in The Plains, Virginia. Guests were treated to the sights and sounds of a safari with entertainment by Moto Moto Marimba Band and, of course, an opportunity to see some fascinating creatures up close and personal.

Ms. Arne shared her thoughts on the history of the Wild Kingdom shows, and how they currently reach a wide audience through their innovative digital and traditional programming promoting wildlife education and conservation.

The previous day, Arne appeared at Liberty Elementary School in South Riding, Virginia. These events were made possible by Mutual of Omaha’s office in Manassas, Virginia. ML Photos: 1. Moto Moto Marimba Band members left to right. Tamara Thomas, Blessings Masiya, Isac Dakuyo, Shalom Masiya, Jona Masiya and Kirsten Stade. 2. Hosts Michael and Oya Macey. 3. Stephanie Arne with Jamie and an Eagle Owl weighing 5-6 pounds. 4. Ambassador Stephanie Arne of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom with an Albino Columbian Red-Tailed Boa. 5. African Spurred-Thigh Tortoise.

Allen Real Estate Co. Ltd. Grandview

Most spectacular Blue Ridge views on the market in the heart of the Warrenton fox hunting country. Large 1st floor master, 4 bedrooms up each with bath, formal DR, library, very spacious family room with covered porch, winter garden, staff accommodations, 3-stone fireplaces, 3 car garage, copper roof, stone and stucco, luxurious pool and gardens, barn, pond, 40 acres in two parcels.

$2,975,000

Late Medieval – C. 1890 and 1935.

Intricate brick wall patterns, massive central chimneys, double barreled ceiling in entrance hall, paneled library, LR with marble fireplace and French doors to covered patio, delicate spiral staircase situated in turret, authentic old English feel on 111 acres, stable with cottage.

$2,550,000

Walnut Springs

Situated on coveted Springs Road close to historic district this spacious country house features large great room with lots of glass and fireplace, library, formal DR, two master suites, conservatory, impressive two story entrance with curved staircase. On 54 acres in two parcels with wonderful distant views, 9 stall stable, near the country club.

$1,975,000

Mosby House

Perfect and Complete Horse Property

In Warrenton’s Historic District, C. 1861, 8 fireplaces, 13’ ceilings, wide heart pine floors, brick with scored stucco, geo thermal. Unusual “T” center hall. Brick summer kitchen and smoke house. Call for restoration details.

12 stall stable, dressage ring, professional ring, outside course, 28 acres, four board fenced paddocks, very spacious country house with lovely in-law/trainer suite, heated pool with waterfall. Just listed.

$595,000

$1,195,000

Edgeworth

C. 1759 with additions added in 1830, 1850 and 1982, very high ceilings, beautiful heart pine floors, first floor master, Jefferson triple windows, 7 fireplaces, immaculate condition, on 50 acres with two cottages, heated pool, 6 stall stable, garaging for 8 cars. More land available.

$1,495,000

Tray Allen, Broker 540-222-3838

Historic District Cottage

Situated among larger historic homes this cottage has living room with fireplace and built-ins and opens to a large screen porch overlooking a rose garden and fenced rear yard. Formal DR with built-in corner cupboards, 3 Bedroom, 2 baths up, master with balcony, walk to summer concerts and town festivals. C. 1935.

$498,000

Joe Allen, Broker 540-229-1770

Allen Real Estate Co. Ltd. 43 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Va 20186 In the Historic District

(540) 347-3838

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INTERNATIONAL GOLD CUP AT GREAT MEADOW

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3 On a stellar day for racing, a large crowd of competitive riding enthusiasts turned out in full force on October 28th, 2017 for the International Gold Cup at Great Meadow.

“Doc Cebu” won the Gold Cup event, Race 5, for owner Charles Fenwick, Jr. and trainer Jack Fisher. Ridden by Jockey Hadden Frost, the winning purse totaled $45,000.

The 4th Race was won by “Balance the Budget” for owner Stoneleigh Stables LLC and trainer Julie Gomena,

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and was ridden by Jockey Mark Watts.

As always, the day was filled with fashion and fun as people donned their finest and most creative hats and set out gorgeous tailgate displays. Jeannie and Rob Morrow took home the win in the Best Couple’s Hats category, and Leilani Mitchell and friends, County Fair bested the tailgating competition to come in first place.

We hope you enjoy a few of the highlights from the day! ML

Photos: 1. Gold Cup Winners photo with Beth Fenwick Garner, Charlie, Fenwick, III, Emily Fenwick, Owner Charles Fenwick, Jr., Ann Hankin, Conner Hankin, Quinn Scala, Jockey Hadden Frost on Doc Cebu, and trainer Jack Fisher at far right (photo by Liz Caller). 2. Best Couple Hat Winners Jeannie & Rob Morrow with harvest plenty theme hats and other contestants (photo by Tony Gibson). 3. Grand Manan leading with the winner of the Gold Cup, Doc Cebu, right behind him (photo by Liz Caller).

4. Celebration of Race 4 with left to right, Kieran Norris, Madison Myers, Robert Bonnie, David Pawlak, Jockey Mark Watts and trainer Julie Gomena (photo by Liz Caller). 5. Tailgate 1st Place winner, Leilani Mitchell and Friends, County Fair (photo

by Sophie Scheps/Bendure Communications).

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The Heavens for Horses, HERE IN ALDIE Story and photos by Callie Broaddus

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aise your hand if you’ve felt the pang of guilt that comes along with not rescuing an an-

imal in need. (Don’t actually raise your hand; you’ll look ridiculous.) Photos of skinny horses—too many unwanted or neglected horses to count—flood our newsfeeds daily. We can’t save them all, so we try to block it out.

That’s where Cherry Tapley, Melissa Pankas, and Shane Richitt put their hands down. Tapley started riding five years ago, but she’s loved horses her whole life. As she dedicated more of her time to learning horsemanship and proper care, she learned of the less-glamorous side of the horse world, the side with too many ribs and not enough loving homes.

Hawaiian-born Pankas and her husband had just purchased a 25-acre farm off James Monroe Highway in Aldie, Virginia, in January of 2015, in order to preserve the land from development and share it with the local horse community. When Tapley shared her dream of rescuing horses with Pankas, everything clicked.

“Cherry magically appeared into our lives,” says Pankas. “And with her passion, drive and love for horses we just knew it was all meant to be, and Nalani Horse Recovery became a reality.”

Ritchitt, who grew up around horses, joined the duo in early 2015, and became the third board member when Nalani Horse Recovery was established as a 501(c)(3) organization in May of 2016.

The trio are now joined in their efforts by a generous network of volunteers and involved members of the community. They have rescued three horses from various walks of life, and they registered Heavens | Page 45

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Heavens | From page 44 their first adoption success story in the last week of September, 2017.

“Nalani,” which means “the heavens” in Hawaiian, is not intended to be a permanent haven for rescues. “Our goal is to figure out what the horse can do and what they want to do, what they would be good at,” explains Tapley. “We don’t want to say, ‘Let’s make this horse a therapeutic riding horse,’ or ‘Let’s try to make this horse a hunter/jumper.’ We want to see what their personality is, where they are going to be happy.”

But that’s easier said than done for someone who doesn’t have a lifetime of riding knowledge to fall back on. “The big thing is that I’m not a trainer,” says Tapley, of her relatively recent foray into the horse world. “I have to be dependent on other people to step in and offer their time and their expertise.”

Trainers have stepped up to the plate to participate in this all-volunteer effort. But without many connections within the “horse world,” Tapley says the majority of her volunteers are people like her: “They’ve always wanted to do it, and they just want to be here so badly. But the people who come to the [fundraisers] and donate, they’re honestly mostly people that we’ve reached through my network or Melissa’s network, who had no idea that there needed to be a horse rescue.”

This outsider’s view into the insular world of horses gave Tapley the idea to take horse rescue and recovery to a broader audience through horse sponsorships. “I had this idea… we could do $40 a month, and that person gets to spend an hour a week

with [the horse],” says Tapley. “And it would be with me or with a volunteer; they don’t necessarily have to be a horse person. They can be with someone who is, who can make sure they’re safe.”

One of Nalani’s three charges is an 18-yearold former cart horse named Lincoln, who caught the eye of Ritchitt at the New Holland auction in Pennsylvania. “Shane was determined to rescue him,” says Tapley. “He went head to head with the kill buyer and got him to back down so we could save Lincoln within the budget we had set.”

Mark and Susan Rivest began sponsoring Lincoln after visiting Nalani and falling in love with the chestnut gelding. The couple comes out every week just to stand by his stall, groom him, and take him out to graze in hand.

“Susan had been sponsoring a rescue up in New York, but this was an opportunity to really get involved locally,” said Rivest, showing me the new halter they had purchased for Lincoln.

“I told Cherry, ‘He’s going to go from being a rescue to being a snob!” Susan said with a laugh, adding that “horse therapy is the best therapy.”

Of course, the supplemental sponsorship fees are not enough to cover all the costs. But the Nalani team now have three successful party fundraisers under their belt and a track record of fiscal responsibility.

“We’re very careful with money. We don’t want to get in over our heads,” Tapley says.

“You always read about rescues that have to be rescued from. And I just want to be sure

that we always have enough money to do whatever we need to do. If they need a surgery, whatever it is, I want to make sure the money is there.”

The team at Nalani is entering the next exciting phase after a successful recovery and adoption of their rescue, Riser. “He is a little older and has some stiffness in his back legs—it appears that he was a Western speed horse who can no longer do that job. His adopter will trail ride him lightly and enjoy riding him bareback,” Tapley concludes. “This opens up a slot in the barn for us to go out and save another life. I can’t think of anything more rewarding than that!”

“Not a day goes by where we don't reflect on how thankful we are for all the volunteers and community support,” says Pankas. “It is all about the horses and our heartfelt desire to make a positive difference.”

If you raised your hand (physically or mentally) at the beginning of this article, you’re not alone. But if you’re interested in making a difference, organizations such as Nalani Horse Recovery are always grateful for your time, expertise, or a few bucks.

For more information, go to virginiahorseback.com/horse-rescue. ML Page 44: Cherry Tapley with Teddy, an eight-year old rescue that fell into Tapley’s lap before the non-profit was formally established. Teddy now has a riding sponsor and trainer, and is slowly working towards a career in the hunter jumper world. Page 45: Mark and Susan Rivest with Lincoln, a recent rescue from the New Holland auction in PA. The couple are Lincoln’s sponsors.

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L'AUBERGE PROVENÇALE NEW LIFE FOR A FRENCH FARMHOUSE STEEPED IN FAMILY HISTORY

Story by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Callie Broaddus

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ind your way through the postcard-worthy hillsides due west of Washington, D.C., and you’ll find yourself somewhere unexpected: France.

L’Auberge Provençale in White Post, Virginia, brings French country living within reach, offering Provence-inspired dining and cozy accommodations set in a historic house.

L’Auberge Provençale has roots deeply seeded in Virginia’s history. Once known as Mount Airy, the estate started as part of Lord Fairfax’s expansive Northern Virginia holdings. The pristine 880 acres surrounding the inn were surveyed by George Washington in the 1740s and granted to the Bell family to build a sheep farm. The native limestone house was completed in 1753, when it was sold and bought, and sold again, passing hands from one prestigious Virginia family to the next.

In 1980, the sprawling countryside residence caught the eye of a fourth-generation chef from Avignon and a New Jersey-born

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It seemed a natural fit as we wanted our own gardens, orchards, and wanted to work with local famers before it was the fashion.

- Celeste Borel baker, Alain and Celeste Borel. The husbandand-wife team met in Key West, and after 10 years in a tropical climate they decided to shift gears and open a country inn.

“We wanted to open an ‘Auberge,’” Celeste Borel explains, “In the countryside, close to a metropolitan area but not too close. Frankly, it was May in Virginia when we first visited.

The beauty was unbelievable and so green!”

Celeste admits the opportunity for agriculture was a strong draw, too. “It seemed a natural fit as we wanted our own gardens, orchards, and wanted to work with local farmers before it was the fashion,” she says.

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A year later, after securing special zoning approvals and completing necessary restoration, the inn and restaurant “La Table” opened, but not without some skepticism.

Celeste explains, “It was quite the topic locally with much intrigue and fighting among the residents at the time. No one knew exactly what we were planning. So they were worried about growth etc.”

In time, the concern shifted to praise for the family-run business. The Inn’s renowned hospitality and stunning wraparound views Farmhouse | Page 47

Farmhouse | From page 46 of the Shenandoah Valley are just part of the appeal. La Table has been awarded many accolades over the years, including its Four Diamond rating and chef Alain’s recognition as the James Beard Foundation’s Great Country Inn Chef.

Outstanding service seems to be a family trait. You are likely to see Celeste gliding between tables greeting customers as if they were friends, because they probably are. In Celeste’s opinion, the best part of her business, “[is] becoming friends with customers over the years, who supported us through thick and thin.”

Her son Christian is the sommelier. He is always nearby with wine facts and pairing suggestions. While Christian pours, his cousin Miles delivers. A server of four years, Miles confesses he feels like he grew up at L’Auberge Provençale. His enthusiasm for the place is charming, and his expertise apparent.

After 36 years of business, the family affair is expanding and answering the call of their customers. “Customers today are different than their parents. They want a different experience,” says Celeste. “That is why we did such an extensive renovation of the restaurant about a year ago. We offer ‘two restaurants in one,’ with the more casual bistro style in the ‘Le Bar’ area and a more sophisticated dining experience in ‘La Table.’”

L’Auberge Provençale has also added to its tightknit staff. Christian Bentley, the new marketing manager, and Chef Richard Wright, formerly of the Georgetown Four Seasons, mark the beginning of a new chapter for the inn. Though their priorities remain the same — offering exquisite cuisine that highlights provincial cooking and uses Virginia’s bounty of ingredients.

Chef Wright’s Tasting Menu (for $135, wine pairing $89 per person) certainly accomplishes this task with a creative menu and memorable wine pairings.

The rustic cannellini beans accompanying the pork jowl are not to be missed. They are creamy and well seasoned, reminiscent of your French grandmother’s cassoulet, if you happen to have a French grandmother. The light body and red fruit notes of the 2016 Ca’La Bionda, Valpolicella pairing cut the richness nicely for a thoughtful course.

Monacacy Ash Goat Cheese from Cherry Glen Farms in Maryland, garnished with peak-of-ripeness figs and lightly salted pine nuts, is the cheese course dreams are made of. The cheese is earthy, grassy, creamy and lightly salted. Each element stands proudly alone, but they are swoon-worthy when tasted together. The wine pairing, a golden, syrupy Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc from Keermont, is a stroke of genius.

Dessert must be inspired by Celeste and Alain’s years in Key West — Key Lime Panna Cotta. The tangy custard is mellowed by

sweet mango, creamy pawpaw ice cream and crunchy graham streusel. It’s a refined finish for an overall delightful meal.

With a new chef and marketing guru in their ranks, the Borels have their eyes set to the future, near and distant. They are already gearing up for Thanksgiving, when they will offer four and five course menus and organic, free-range, cage-free turkey sandwiches to go.

As Celeste says, “You have to have leftovers, you know!”

On December 10, the inn hosts its “Christmas in Provence” dinner featuring uncommon delicacies such as rabbit, venison and partridge. And elegant options for Christmas and New Year’s Eve are already beginning to book.

As for the next 36 years? Celeste says,

“Nothing endures but change, so L’Auberge Provençale is continually evolving. We are forward thinking and realize our mission will change over the years, as our customers will, too. We will always focus on our cuisine, as that is the heart of the inn, but we will also focus on our customers.” ML Page 46: Scottish salmon with a crunchy Asian pair and cucumber, horseradish, and crème fraîche was perfectly paired with a smooth 2015 Chenin Blanc from Kloof Street, South Africa. Page 47, top: As part of their farm-to-table philosophy, L'Auberge Provençale sources many of their fruits, vegetables, and flowers straight from their own garden and orchard. Page 47, bottom: Sommelier Christian Borel and server Miles Patterson close out the evening at Le Bar.

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BUILDING THE BIG BUSINESS OF

EQUINE SPORTS Story and photos by Callie Broaddus

If you build it, they will come.

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r, at least, that’s the bet a few area equine facility owners and managers are making as they spend millions to bring their historic properties up to worldclass competition standards.

It may seem a silly question to ask, but why is there such a wave of investment into equine facilities now? Are these facilities all going after the same piece of the equestrian pie?

MIDDLEBURG TRAINING CENTER The most nascent of the large-scale facility improvements this article will visit broke ground early this summer, when Purcellville resident Chuck Kuhn purchased the derelict Middleburg Training Center for $1.5 million from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. Kuhn, founder and owner of JK Moving Services, is well-known for his dedication to preserving open space. On October 12 of this

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year, Kuhn was awarded the Commonwealth Steward Award for placing more than 1,000 acres of Virginia countryside into easement.

When Leesburg-based attorney David Moyes contacted Kuhn earlier this year about the beautiful and historic Middleburg Training Center, he found a ready audience. “He grew up racing on this track as a kid, so that’s the guy that I have to blame for this,” says Kuhn with a laugh.

Moyes told Kuhn that developers were looking at the property, and he wanted someone to get it under easement. “That’s what sucked me into it, and that was the sole intention. So that’s what I was excited about, most passionate about. Now I’m excited about trying to get it back to where it was,” says Kuhn, elaborating that the training center was “the cat’s meow” during the 1950s and 1960s, when Paul Mellon built and operated the facility.

The property features 11 barns, 220 stalls, 22 paddocks and a picturesque 7/8-mile racetrack on 149 acres, all within a seven-minute

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drive northwest of Middleburg. “When we came in, the grass was three feet high, the track was a mess, the barns were a mess, and we’re slowly taking it down. So, we’re going to put about a $2 million investment into renovating the barns and the track,” says Kuhn, with pep in his voice.

“This was really about the conservation easement, protecting the open space,” he adds. “It won’t be the next retirement for me by any means, but I do think it can sustain itself. I think it can continue to grow, and I think it can be a profitable venture. But it’s going to take some time.”

Kuhn plans to rebrand the facility under the name Middleburg Equine Center, and he’s set his sights on bringing eventing to the property in a manner that compliments the events at Morven Park in Leesburg and Great Meadow in The Plains. “We’re starting to add quality tenants,” he says. “And then when we add the other disciplines, we’re going to get this thing alive again.”

Equine | Page 49

Equine | From page 48 MORVEN PARK Twenty-four miles northeast of Kuhn’s new farm sits the iconic International Equestrian Center at Morven Park.

“What was once the training ground for the best eventing riders in the country, from Pony Club through Olympic Games, has become a well-used facility in need of improvements,” says Sheryl Williams, the COO and Interim Executive Director at Morven Park following the departure of Stephanie Kenyon. “Today’s competitions require facilities beyond those which were acceptable 40 years ago, when Morven Park’s International Equestrian Center was first built.”

The historic facility embarked on a multiyear master site plan in 2012, the first phase of which is currently underway, with one of the two new infield arenas already completed. Phase I is expected to cost $4.4 million and will include a racecourse renovation and grand prix arena in addition to the two infield arenas.* “Morven Park has long been and remains one of the few facilities in the area that can accommodate so many different disciplines and large numbers of competitors,” says Williams.

“Our competitions today include eventing, dressage, hunter/jumper, polo and carriage driving. Racing will be returning as well. Our business was outgrowing our ability to meet

the needs of our existing clientele.”

Williams’ team has managed to raise $2.5 million of the needed $4.4 million to complete Phase I. Because she will have to dip into the facility’s maintenance reserve to temporarily cover the $1.9 million gap in funding, Williams hopes to bring in new revenue from competitors, spectators and casual riders coming to take advantage of such a uniquely versatile facility.

GREAT MEADOW Rob Banner, President of The Great Meadow Foundation, mixes a passion for conservation with a long personal history in horse sports.

“If we anchor the area in equestrianism, it will always be defensible against development,” says Banner, explaining his “30,000foot view” approach to the facility renovation at Great Meadow, which was completed in the spring of 2016.

Great Meadow’s well-publicized renovation project involved a $4.5 million investment, adding a top-of-the-line cross-country course and two arenas, the 300’ x 250’ main arena and a 400’ x 100’ warm-up ring. The expansion also involved acquiring approximately 175 acres, nearly doubling the size of the property, and placing the whole property under conservation easement.

The renovation is part of Banner’s laser-focused effort to raise the bar of competition at

Great Meadow. “If we’re able to bring in the very best horses, then we’ll certainly bring the spectators,” says Banner. “We’ll bring crowds that want to see the German team or the British team or the Irish team compete against the U.S. team.”

Banner is also a tireless promoter of the proposed USDA-approved quarantine center at the Dulles International Airport, which would enable horses to fly from Europe directly to Middleburg’s front door. “If we’re to get better horse sport, we have to face Europe on our own soil,” says Banner, noting that Virginia’s horse country is an ideal location for international-level competition. “Not only is it easy to go back and forth to Europe, but we have great footing in all the places where we compete.”

While two of Great Meadow’s long-held sporting events, the Virginia Gold Cup and International Gold Cup, are well established steeplechase fixtures, the July FEI Nation’s Cup™ CICO*** event is gaining its footing.

Just this week, Banner secured a three-year contract with equine air transportation company Horse America as the title sponsor of the event, which will officially be called the Horse America Great Meadow International, presented by Adequan. Horse America is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brook Ledge Horse Transportation.

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Equine | From page 49 This fall, Great Meadow came runner-up to Fair Hill in the bid for a proposed FEI CCI**** event. Banner attributes that loss in part to Maryland’s greater recognition of the economic impact the proposed event could bring. “They understood it was a $30 million impact to tourism in that area,” he says.

“It creates an economic impact that cannot be ignored. And the jobs are farriers, feed vendors, veterinarians, as well as hotels and restaurants and up and down the ladder.”

Banner allows a rare momentary pause.

“Equestrian is not just the preservation of open space,” he says. “It’s big business.”

UPPERVILLE COLT & HORSE SHOW In the business of the nation’s oldest horse show, an extensive facilities upgrade contributed to a boom in entries, which had struggled to rebound after the recession. At its peak in 2008, the Upperville Colt and Horse Show tallied 1,627 horse-and-rider combinations, 41 percent of which trailered in from Virginia. But by the next year, the famous show had lost 30 percent of its entries—dropping to 1,130—and from a much more local audience; 59 percent came from within the Commonwealth.

For four straight years, entries hovered around 1,130. Competitors grew more vocal about the need for improved footing, and a few patrons donated generously to initiate the improvements. Changes were slowly implemented over the next five years,

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corresponding with a slight uptick in entries.

However, in 2017, the 164th Upperville Colt and Horse Show suddenly bucked the gradual growth trend and registered 1,545 entries, a 28 percent increase over the previous seven year average.** Notably, the percentage of in-state competitors dropped to 40 percent, its lowest in more than a decade at least (no data being available before 2007).

While these numbers are similar to those recorded in 2008, there is one statistic that doesn’t match up. The percentage of entries trailering in from Florida rose sharply to 14 percent in 2017, whereas only 4 percent of competitors in 2008 came from the sunshine state. To put that into more tangible numbers, 151 more Floridian horses filled the barns this year than in the peak entry year of 2008.

While that statistic could simply be anomalous, it could also indicate a new equestrian demographic willing to travel to compete at a venue the quality of the Upperville showgrounds.

“The horse show is an incredibly improved facility—vastly improved,” remarks Olympic gold medalist Joe Fargis, who sits on the horse show board. “The schedule, the footing, the money, everything. It’s just improved, and it’s a nice destination.”

While the swell in entry fees is good for the horse show, being a destination for out-of-state riders is a boon for the local economy. Traveling competitors contribute tourism dollars into retail and hospitality industries and become new customers for local

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veterinarians, farriers, hay suppliers and other horse industry businesses.

One might find it counterintuitive that the people behind each of these major projects would root for each other’s success.

When so much capital is involved, it’s not likely assumed that camaraderie is part of the package. But as Williams puts it, “We are all resources that cater to differing portions of the equestrian market.”

“Look at auto dealerships today,” says Kuhn. “It used to be there would be an auto dealer on one side of town and an auto dealer on the other side of town. Now they do the auto parks. And I’m kind of looking at the same thing here with the equine. Bring ‘em all in. It’s a big industry here—it’s a billion-dollar industry here. And I think a rising tide will float all of us.” ML *For a more detailed breakdown, visit middleburglife.com/morven-park-equestrian-center. **Data from the 2014 Upperville Colt and Horse Show was incomplete, and was therefore omitted from calculations. The data available was consistent with the adjacent years.

Page 48: Chuck Kuhn, founder and CEO of JK Moving Services, purchased the Middleburg Training Center from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation in May, 2017 for $1.5 million. Page 49: The old racetrack at Morven Park prior to its extensive renovation, with gorgeous open spaces that are being preserved. Page 50: Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda led the US eventing team to victory at the 2017 Great Meadow International in July.

Envision Your Holiday Event Here 23595 Winery Lane Middleburg, Virginia 20117 For more information, visit greenhillvineyards.com

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Attwood Equestrian Surfaces UP TO THE CHALLENGE

By Elaine Anne Watt

N

ick Attwood carries his British heritage well, with the polished manners and modest air so characteristic of his brethren. But, give him a little time to open up about his passion for excellence and commitment to becoming the premier provider of world-class surfaces for equine training and competition, and his initial reticence fades as he describes how he’s made Attwood Equestrian Surfaces the go-to choice for owners of small horse farms or internationally recognized facilities, including some in our own backyard.

Nick’s path to owner, operator and chief marketer of his own company is a true success story built on lessons learned and challenges accepted. Before landing in America in the early 90s, he worked for an English company that specialized in products made from fibers, plastics and polymers. That company bet heavily on textiles made from tencel, an innovative material that was superior to the polyesters currently in wide use; however, the competitive advantages of tencel were quickly adapted to polyesters without the accompanying price tag, relegating tencel use to only the

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high-end textile market, essentially putting that company out of business. Although Nick had gained tremendous experience working in the product development cycles, the most

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important lesson proved to be understanding the importance of business practicalities and market relevance.

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Attwood | From page 52 Nick next moved to a company that developed products for all kinds of sporting surfaces, particularly tennis courts and racetracks. Whereas the climate in England is considered temperate, Nick became the point man for problems that evolved as these products were sold into less stable environments.

The product proved to be fatally flawed when used on a racetrack in Oklahoma, where summers are hot and dry and winters can deliver extreme cold. Sent here to oversee and train half a dozen people for the track, he tried to solve the problem of an unsuitable material for the application in use. Ultimately, the equestrian side of that company failed, but it provided an opportunity for Nick to put his problem-solving capabilities to the test.

With his background in chemistry, product development and now practical application, Nick went to work to find the right blend of sands, fibers and polymers to create superior footing surfaces for both indoor and outdoor arenas. Attwood offers four options: Pinnacle, Terranova and Ameritrack, which is essentially Pinnacle adapted for racetracks as opposed to dressage or grand prix. The fourth, EuroTex, is a sand and textile formulation that is water dependent and suitable for all riding disciplines. Unlike many competitors’ products, the materials used are non-toxic, do not contain wax and do not become airborne, posing no inherent harm to the animals or humans. Of course, Attwood will propose and select the surface most appropriate to the conditions and purposes envisioned.

Attwood’s products are uniquely designed to optimize the interaction of the horse with the surface, with superior absorption of impact resulting in secure footing and release, all on a dust-free and water repellant surface that provides an evenly engineered consistent plane throughout the arena. The result is the convenience of a low-maintenance, long-lasting equestrian surface for the serious rider, ready for use when needed, and upon which the horse can safely develop musculature and conditioning to prepare for competition with a minimum of risk and reduction in potential injuries.

When asked if this might increase the likelihood of harm on less optimized surfaces, Nick explained that it actually works to the contrary. A well-conditioned and properly developed horse will be able to withstand more challenging conditions than a horse that has not had the benefit of that training; furthermore, with the overall improvement in the surfaces on the competitive circuits, it is no longer hard to make choices to avoid the riskier venues of the past.

His customers really care about giving their horses the best. It is less about convenience than in the beginning when many of his clients wanted the time-saving benefits of

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his products, allowing for more spontaneous use of their arenas. With the knowledge that has been gained about the wear and tear that can happen with repeated training, an investment in the proper footing reaps huge dividends for both horse and rider.

Gone are the early days when Nick had to perform most of the work himself. He now has a devoted team “that feels like family” with Edwin Barron his second in command, but he will travel all over the country and the world to supervise the projects. In addition to local projects such as Great Meadow, Morven Park and at the “fabulous farms and ranches of Middleburg,” there are now horse arenas associated with most major cities, and Attwood has done installations in 43 states as well as internationally. Developing his employees and being willing to take on projects that are “a little more adventurous” keeps Nick and his team at the forefront of some of the most exciting work in their field.

Currently, they are working in the United Arab Emirates building a racetrack using all American-made coatings on their materials.

“It’s kind of neat in a way that we are selling them products made of sand and oil,” he said.

He’ll be back and forth during the six-week job making sure that all is completed to the company’s standards.

When asked what some of his greatest obstacles have been, Nick tells the story of how his father made him return an electric

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guitar he’d bought in his youth for 30 pounds.

“I made my own guitar after that, and every struggle I’ve faced has made me more determined to succeed,” he said.

Marketing has not come as naturally to him as other parts of the business because, “British people don’t like to blow their own horns, and I was reluctant to step up and say just how good we really are. I had to get over that to an extent.”

The rest, whether mentoring his employees or finding the best solution for a client’s needs, is what makes him eager for each day to begin.

Recognizing that his is a “relationship business and that every project is unique,” his passion is pushing him to strive for more.

“This company is my life and about how I want to live, not about the money. I feel like I’m in a bit of a rush now because I have so much I want to do before I walk away from that last arena knowing that it is as close to perfection as it can be.” ML Page 52, top: Indoor Arena by Attwood at St. Bride’s Farm in Upperville (photo courtesy of Attwood Equestrian Surfaces). Page 52, bottom: Nick Attwood, Founder and Owner and Edwin Barron, Vice President of Sales and Operations for Attwood (photo courtesy of Attwood Equestrian Surfaces). Page 54: Boyd Martin riding Polaris at Great Meadow International 2017 in the Attwood Nations Cup Arena (photo courtesy of Attwood Equestrian Surfaces).

MEET MIDDLEBURG

Claire Louis, counselor Story and photo by Kerry Phelps Dale

C

laire Louis spends a lot of her time at Windy Hill Foundation’s Levis Hill House on the phone helping residents of all the foundation’s properties to start and continue receiving benefits they are eligible for. Since the average age of the residents in the senior apartment building is 80 years old, most of the folks are at a loss when it comes to technology and the way social services process information. Claire sits at her desk with her computer before her and her phone on speaker sorting through the necessary details and advocating for her residents.

“I’m the bridge between residents and social services,” said Claire.

As Director of Programs, when she’s not cutting her way through red tape, Claire is creating, implementing and managing the various programs designed to enhance the lives of the children, families and seniors who call the Windy Hill properties home. One day the seniors may take a bus ride to Skyline Drive to enjoy the fall colors or the children might go to a minor league baseball game.

There are bingo and movie nights, daily afterschool programs, tutoring, children’s summer camps, a college scholarship program and more. Windy Hill’s mission is not only to provide affordable housing but also to offer avenues to self-sufficiency and self-confidence with the aim to transform lives.

With a degree in social work from Howard University, DC, Claire immediately entered government social work in Los Angeles, California, “young and full of fire.” Before coming to Windy Hill and Middleburg 10 years ago, Claire spent time working in Seattle, Washington, and Leesburg, Virginia.

Claire remembers vividly her first home visit in Loudoun County. She was warned by her co-worker that there would be unrestrained animals they may be confronted with. Coming from LA, Claire assumed her co-worker was talking about dogs, but when they arrived at the location there was instead a free-range cow on the property.

“That was my initiation to Loudoun County, and I didn’t get out of the car,” said Claire. “I was used to coming across a chained pit bull, but a cow?”

Claire enjoys the residents of Windy Hill, especially the elderly, but admitted there often is drama amongst them. “It’s the tempest in the teapot here, sometimes.”

She loves festivals and is an avid reader of fiction, “New York Times Best Sellers, but maybe a year or two later,” as she waits until they are available at the library. “I moved once and the number of books and the heavy boxes convinced me not to buy books anymore.”

Claire said she doesn’t take herself too seriously and tries to find humor in her surroundings and her life. “Laughter sustains me.”

But what keeps her going, she said, “is my ability here to make an impact and see that impact.” ML

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THE VIRGINIA GRAPE THE THANKSGIVING WINE-PAIRING CONUNDRUM

I

n 1621 wild turkey was a documented feature of the first Thanksgiving at Plymouth Colony. Indeed, wild turkey was so prevalent and so important to the colonial diet that it was seriously in the running against the bald eagle to become America’s national bird.

Today, it’s a traditional Thanksgiving staple.

It’s not clear that wine was a feature of the first Thanksgiving. In fact, American wine production didn’t enjoy even modest commercial success until around the time Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863. So it’s fair to say that pairing wine with this seasonal feast is a fairly recent consideration.

LIMITLESS OPTIONS Pairing wine with turkey seems easy enough. The challenge is not the main course, but the range of other sweet and savory dishes served as accompaniments. Let me just point out that there seems to be no end of

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solutions. A quick online search will yield limitless results.

One option is to serve a different wine with each course. Such a pairing might look like this: Turkey and dressing—cabernet franc, merlot or a lightly oaked chardonnay.

Light side dishes—pinot gris or albariño.

Cranberry—sparkling wine or drystyle rosé.

Of course, this assumes that you are plating and serving the meal in courses. I don’t know about your house, but we tend to host a large number of guests and serve either family or buffet style.

Selecting one red and one white will give your guests an option and is always a safe strategy. Of course, there are also a couple different ways to mix it up and make the wine pairing entertaining.

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HAVE A LITTLE FUN WITH THE PAIRING Some very serious oenophiles may stress over the right wine to serve. There is no reason that the choice needs to be onerous or fall completely on the host. Here are a couple of ideas to make the pairing both fun and a learning experience. I’ve used both of these with great success.

OPTION 1 One way to take the pressure off selecting a wine is to open three or four different bottles. This can be delegated to friends and family. Ask them to bring a bottle and open all of them together. Encourage your guests to sample each of the wines and try them with different items from the Thanksgiving menu.

Trade observations on what works best.

This can be a great educational way to discover Grape | Page 57

Grape | From page 56 new pairing options. Take note of favorites and use this to help select wines for next year.

OPTION 2 Although we’ve never tried this on Thanksgiving, we have used a variation of Option 1 with great success. We cover the bottles and organize the wines into a fairly informal blind tasting. Here’s how it works: Ask guests to bring either a red or white wine.

On Thanksgiving, as the wines are assembled, separate reds and whites, so you have two categories.

Place the bottles in paper bags and place a number on each bag.

Include a note card and pencil as part of the place setting for guests to keep track of favorites.

Encourage guests to try at least a tasting pour of each offering.

At the end of the meal, using a simple show of hands, determine which red and white wine were the crowd favorites.

Then reveal the contents of each bag.

By adding this touch of mystery to the

pairing, you help eliminate preconceived notions about specific wine. It’s also just a great party game. With a minimum of effort, you can add a new element to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

KEEPING IT LOCAL Particularly when we have guests from out of town, we like to showcase some local wines. I reached out to a few local winemakers to find out which wine they might choose, if invited to dinner on Thanksgiving.

Doug Fabbioli, owner-winemaker at Fabbioli Cellars, said he “usually recommends Chambourcin. It is a great crowd pleaser, lighter style red that can match up well with traditional and non-traditional meals. The bright fruit and acid can work with the turkey and the cranberry sauce.” He refers to it as “Virginia's Chianti!”

Over at Greenhill Vineyards, winemaker Sébastien Marquet was emphatic about taking “the Philosophy 2015,” which is their high-end red blend. “This wine,” he went on to say, “is incredible, and I would say you are lucky because the wine is not released yet.”

“I would take our 2015 Red Spark sparkling Norton,” said winemaker Katie DeSouza of Casanel Vineyards, “because bubbles pair with everything! Being a red sparkler, it

will definitely pair with the main course (turkey) but is also equally delicious with cranberry sauce and all the fixings. Our Red Spark has a wonderful brightness to it, coming from both the tiny bubbles and nice acidity, with red berry flavors throughout the mid palate.”

Melanie Natoli, winemaker at Cana Vineyards, thought the question was easy. Rosé is so food friendly, she pointed out, it goes with everything. “[The Cana] 2016,” Melanie added, “has great acid to pair with food and some nice structure that will hold up to most everything on the Thanksgiving table.”

At the end of the day, there’s no reason to be intimidated or to stress over “the perfect wine.” You can look for advice online, ask for assistance at your local wine shop or enquire at a local tasting room. Alternately, leave it up to your guests and have some fun with the pairings. ML Brian Yost blogs as The Virginia Grape and writes for a number of local, regional and national publications. His articles concentrate on wine trends and wineries in the Eastern United States. Find more of his writing at thevirginiagrape.com.

Page 56: Be adventurous or have some fun with your selections.

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MY ATELIER

CUSTOM COSTUME CREATIONS

By Dulcy B. Hooper

“I

like making things,” said Mauren Pereira. And that includes building things, the terminology used to describe the creation of costumes.

Pereira’s vision for My Atelier in Marshall, Virginia, is to offer “cut and sew” services for small batch fashion and costume designers, as well as business support services for designers.

“I want our designer clients to think of us as their personal atelier, a studio of skilled artisans who can make their creations a reality,” she said.

Pereira’s background in the field is impressive: a decade “building costumes,” including five years in New York City working for John Kristiansen Costumes (JPKNY), a shop that builds costumes for Broadway-level designers.

“Because costume craft is so out of the box logistically, I had the opportunity to interact directly with designers early on in my career,” Pereira said, “and that is really rare.”

Her work at JPKNY included costume

elements for the revival of “Evita,” “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” “Caplin,” “Venus in Fur” and “Bring it On the Musical,” managing a team of up to five people.

“We would typically be working on at least four different shows at any given time,” she said. “Costume shops have a hierarchy: stitcher to hand finisher to first hand, almost like a sous chef or a first mate. My specialty was costume crafts—things that aren’t regular garments.”

Among these were a light-up Oberon costume for Julie Taymor’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” wings for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show, and miscellaneous accessories, hats, masks and other pieces for Ringling Brothers, the Public Theater and others.

Prior to JPKNY, Pereira spent three years at the Richmond Ballet and two seasons in the millinery department at the renowned Santa Fe Opera Company. “I built hats for shows, including those designed by Tom Ford and Tony winner Jane Greenwood,” she said.

Pereira’s goal with My Atelier is to develop a business that provides the opportunity to work on beautiful products, using the best

quality textiles. “I want to facilitate artisans in their craft and do job training to preserve the craft,” she said. “A culture of artisanship already exists in this community, and I want to help foster that.”

Pereira’s talent for fabric creations manifested itself at a young age, according to her mother, Catherine Boswell (Catherine Boswell Designs). Boswell recalled that when her daughter was a toddler, she would play under the worktable while Boswell worked, picking up cast-off scraps of fabric and creating her own designs. “Even as a child,” Boswell said, “Mauren was sewing on a commercial machine.”

Pereira and her husband, Tim Jones, attended Virginia Commonwealth University, studying theatre design and construction.

Pereira has degrees from VCU in costume design and construction as well as a master’s in stage design from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London.

The couple returned from New York to Virginia four years ago. Since their return, Pereira has managed the workroom

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Atelier | Page 60

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The Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts is the leading dance studio in Warrenton, Virginia. Lasley Centre Instructors have danced professionally with the San Francisco Ballet, the Joffrey Ballet, Ailey II, and in leading roles in productions in the United States as well as internationally.

Atelier | From page 59 and office administration at Catherine Boswell Designs as well as pursued her own design creativity.

Kalie Lasley, founder and executive director of the Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Warrenton, Virginia, was introduced to Pereira through a mutual friend shortly after Pereira and Jones returned.

(Lasley is an American Ballet Theatre-certified teacher and formerly danced with the San Francisco Ballet.)

“I was interested in meeting Mauren when I heard that she had been with John Kristiansen, one of the top costume houses in New York,” said Lasley. “I didn’t know what to expect, but when she brought her sketches along, I just loved them.”

Pereira is now in her third year of producing Nutcracker costumes for the Lasley Centre.

“When we went to New York to shop for fabric,” Lasley recalled, “Mauren had already identified what she wanted me to see. And when she brought the costumes in for a fitting, I was so overjoyed, I was actual tearful.

They are equal to any of the costumes I wore when dancing for the San Francisco Ballet.

And they are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside!”

Pereira’s focus in My Atelier will be not only on the creative side, but on the business side, as well.

“The technology on the creative side

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hasn’t changed much,” she said. “For instance, I worked on a 70-year-old sewing machine in New York. But business technology has changed, and I know that, regardless of talent and hard work, a new business can sink or swim based on how you handle the business side—bookkeeping, social media and marketing. I plan to put a lot of emphasis on that, on logistics and the smooth day-to-day operations of My Atelier.

“I want my customers to get an artisanal product but with a 21st century ordering and business experience,” she added. “That’s what I admired most about my mentors in New York and what I want to replicate for my design clients here.” ML My Atelier is located at 8343 W. Main Street, Marshall, VA 20115. The email address is info@myatelierva.com, and the telephone number is 917-670-8602.

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The Lasley Centre is performing its holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at Fauquier High School, 705 Waterloo Road, Warrenton, Virginia, on Saturday/Sunday, December 2, 3, 9 and 10.

Performances are at 4:00 pm and will feature students who studied at ABT’s pre-professional program last summer and teachers who danced with the Joffrey Ballet and the Russian National Ballet. Costumes by Lauren Pereira, My Atelier.

Tickets are available online at lasleynutcracker.com.

Page 59, left: The Nutcracker, 2016. Performed by The Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts (photo courtesy of Henry Oviedo, HOV Photography). Page 59, right: The Nutcracker, 2016. Performed by The Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts (photo courtesy of Henry Oviedo, HOV Photography). Page 60, top: Mauren Pereira at My Atelier (photo by Richard Hooper). Page 60, bottom: The Nutcracker, 2016. Performed by The Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts (photo courtesy of Henry Oviedo, HOV Photography).

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Photo by Joanne Maisano

11/1-1/7

The Horse and the Camera from the Judith and Jo Tartt, Jr. Photography Collection, National Sporting Library & Museum (Wed.–Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Come see this insightful exhibition of exceptional photographs. 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg. Admission is Adults $10, Seniors $8, Youth $8, Children Free. For more information visit www.nationalsporting.org or call 540-687-6542.

11/1-1/14

The Horse in Ancient Greek Art, National Sporting Library & Museum (Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): This exhibition features Greek vases and sculpture from the 8th through the 4th centuries BCE drawn from a private collection, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and other museum collections. The exhibition and accompanying publication explore the significance of the horse in ancient Greek culture, the superb horsemanship skills of the ancient Greeks, and imagery of the horse in ancient myth, war, sport and competition.

Admission is $10 Adults, $8 Seniors, $8 Youth

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and Children Free. For more information visit www.nationalsporting.org.

11/10-13

Ve t e r a n s D a y Weekend Celebration at Three Fox Vineyards (Fri.- Sun.): Show your military ID, VFW, or similar cards and enjoy special discounts for what you have done for our freedom. On Saturday, enjoy live music by Movin’ On from 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. For more information visit www.threefoxvineyards.com.

11/10

Concert on the Steps, Middleburg Community Center featuring Andre Fox, Bryan Fox & Gary Smallwood (5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.): Come join the fun on the front steps (inside in the ballroom if it is too chilly) for a light-hearted evening of entertainment. Admission is Free. For more information, please call 540-687-6373.

11/11

Oatlands Historic House & Gardens Tour (10 a.m.

– Noon): Join Dr. David Clark of Catholic University of America and Northern Vir-

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ginia Community College for an archaeological walking tour of the Oatlands property. Guests will learn how archaeologists read the landscape “clues” that often guide them to locations for field work. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as most of the tour will be over uneven terrain. Tickets can be purchased in the gift shop the day of the tour for $5 per individual, $10 per family.

20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg, VA 20175-6572. For more information call 703-777-3174 or visit www.oatlands.org.

11/11- 12

26th Hunt Country Antiques Fair at The Hill School (Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.) presented by Dordy Fontinel Show Management: An amazing array of exceptional furniture, folk art, fine art, silver, decorative accessories, jewelry, country store and more. All items guaranteed to be authentic. Catering by Market Salamander. Admission $10. For more information visit www.dfshows.com.

11/11

Seasonal Pies Cooking Class, Salamander Resort

& Spa, Harrimans Cooking Studio (2 p.m. – 4 p.m.): Have you ever wanted your dessert to stand out from all the rest? Learn the secret to a flaky crust and how to create delicious fillings using the best fruits from local farms and orchards from their Executive Pastry Chef Jason Reaves. Cost is $79 per person. For reservations, please call 540-326-4070.

11/12

Six-Course White Truffle Dinner, Girasole Restaurant, The Plains (6:30 p.m.): Come experience this delicious celebration of nature’s bounty hosted by Francesca Vajra of G. D. Vajra Winery. Each of the courses will feature the famed white truffles of the Piedmont region paired with the perfect wine.

Cost is $250 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity. For more information, please visit www.girasoleva.com or to make a reservation call 540-253-5501.

11/14

Meet the Author: “Foxhunting w ith Meadow Brook,” National Sporting Library & Museum (6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.): Please join NSLM as they hold a talk and book signing with Judith Tabler, author of “Foxhunting with Meadow Brook.” Admission is $5, free to NSLM members. RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org or call 540-687-6542 ext. 25.

11/16

An nu a l T h a n k s g i v i ng Dinner at Middleburg Community Center (6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.): All members of the community are welcome to join in this annual feast with all the fixings. Details on cost of admission not yet announced. 300 West Washington Street, Middleburg. For more information, please call 540-687-6373.

11/17 -12/30

O a t lands Historic House & Gardens Christmas Tours (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Come see the beautifully decorated rooms of the historic 1804 mansion sparkling with unique decorations.

Open for self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from Noon until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Guides will be on hand to provide additional information about the property. Holiday admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors & active duty military and $10 for children 6-16. Admission is free for children under age 5. 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg, VA 20175-6572.

For more information call 7030777-3174 or visit www.oatlands.com.

11/17

Windy Hill Foundation Gala, Salamander Resort & Spa (6:00 p.m. – ‘Til): A dazzling night full of fun in support of Windy Hill Foundation’s programs for affordable housing and educational opportunities in our community. Arrive in style in the fashion of the roaring 20s at theworld of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Entertainment

by Doc Scantlin and His Imperial Palms Orchestra. Tickets are available online at www.windyhillfoundation.org.

11/18

The Horse in Ancient Greek Art, Coffee with the Curator at the National Sporting Library & Museum (10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.): Join the NSLM for an informal coffee reception and special tour of their latest exhibition which has received acclaim in the Wall Street Journal and elsewhere. Generously sponsored by Middleburg Common Grounds, admission is $5, free to NSLM members. RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org or call 540-687-6542 ext. 25.

11/18

Artists in Middleburg (AIM) Fall Fundraiser: Art Matters (2 p.m. – 5 p.m.): To be held at Looking Glass, 5800 Merry Oaks Road, The Plains, VA 20198. Attire is business casual.

Cost is $100 per person. To purchase tickets go to: theartistsinmiddleburg.org and click on the events page.

11/19

Grace Church Concert Series presents Peter & Will Anderson Jazz Trio, The Plains, VA (5 p.m.): Offering “a fresh perspective to classic jazz,” come be delighted to share this new take on some old favorites. Grace Episcopal Church, 6507 Main Street, The Plains, VA 20198. Admission is $25 Adults, $15 Students, under 18 Free.

For ticket information email: concertseriestheplains.org, go online at gracetheplains.org or call 540-253-5177 ext. 107.

11/23

Salamander Resort & Spa, Thanksgiving Buffet, Middleburg Ballroom (11 a.m. – 6 p.m.): Why not skip the traditional and join them for an elaborate Thanksgiving brunch buffet! Indulge in multiple stations including prime rib carving, seafood display or a large ice sculpture, cheese and charcuterie station, kid-friendly options and an endless amount of mouth-watering desserts! Cost is $98 per person, $45 per child. For reservations, please call 540-3264070.

11/24

Salamander Resort & Spa, Upperville Dining Room (6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.): Save the leftovers for later. Enjoy an exclusive four-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Ryan Arensdorf and expertly paired with selections from local vineyards in their intimate, private dining room at Harrimans. Cost is $150 per person.

For reservations, please call 540-326-4070.

11/24-26

Turkey Trot Viney a r d Tr e a s u r e Hunt at Three Fox Vineyards (Fri.-Sun.): Burn off those Turkey Day calories hunting through our vineyard for hidden coupons for complimentary wine tastings and wine & merchandise discounts! Special coupons will be hidden for children. For more information visit www.threefoxvineyards.com.

11/29

Salamander Resort & Spa, Tree Lighting in Living Room (6 p.m.): Come join in the excitement as choirs sing in anticipation of Santa’s arrival to light up the resort’s Christmas tree. Join in for a festive celebration with cookies, hot cocoa, mulled cider and to have your photo taken with Santa. For more information, please call 540-326-4020.

12/1

Middleburg Christmas Tree Lighting & Carols, Pink Box Garden, 12 N. Madison Street (5 p.m.): Join with us for the festive lighting of the community Christmas Tree and sing traditional carols as we celebrate another holiday season in our beloved town.

12/2

Christmas in Middleburg Activities & Parade (All Day): There is much to do and say about this classic event beloved locally and known nationally for its charm and character. You can find special food, crafts, shopping, and delights everywhere you look, but be sure to check the official listing of events and get your parking passes ahead of time so that you won’t miss a thing! 11 a.m. brings the famous Hunt & Hounds Review, and the Parade will begin at 2 p.m. sharp. For more information visit www.christmasinmiddleburg.org or call organizers at 571-278-5658.

12/2

Salamander Resort & Spa Christmas Brunch, Middleburg Ballroom (10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.): Visit with Santa and his elves while enjoying a delicious brunch in their winter wonderland. The ballroom is transformed into Santa’s workshop where you’ll enjoy a brunch featuring sweet and savory favorites, a make-your-own holiday keepsake designing station, as well as a photo opportunity with Santa Claus himself. Cost is $82 per person, $40 per child. For reservations, please call 540-326-4070.

12/2

Red Fox Inn & Tavern Champagne Brunch (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) and Tavern Dinner (5 p.m. – 9 p.m.): While in town for our famous Christmas in Middleburg Parade, why not plan ahead and reserve a table for some extraordinary fare at our historic Inn & Tavern! For more information, please visit www.inn@redfox.com or call 540-687-6301.

12/3

Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company presents a Luncheon with The Sugar Plum Fairy, Salamander Resort & Spa (12 noon – 3 p.m.): Come spend a magical afternoon with the Sugar Plum Fairy and her friends. Enjoy a luncheon, shopping and excerpts performed by dancers from the Loudoun Ballet. Admission is $65 Adults, $45 Children (12 & Under). Tickets may be purchased in advance until November 28th by visiting www.eventbrite.com/e/the-sugar-plum-fairy-luncheon-tickets.

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Christmas in Middleburg

Middleburg Trots Out Their Finest for Holiday Festivities

L

ocated in the heart of Virginia horse country, Middleburg, has been extolled as being one of the quaintest destinations on the east coast. The traditional Christmas festivities, with the backdrop of a classic hunt country village have become a family tradition and essential part of the spirit of Christmas for small children, world travelers, and visitors from far and wide.

Christmas in Middleburg is a wonderful community event. Festivities begin at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, December 2 with Breakfast with Santa and a silent auction at the Middleburg Community Charter School.

Starting at 11 a.m. the Middleburg Hunt Review takes to the streets creating a spectacular sight as approximately 150 horses, riders in hunting attire and dozens of hounds come through the town. Throughout the day there are choir performances, the Christmas in Middleburg Craft Show at the Middleburg Community Center (300 West Washington Street), as well as shopping and dining in the town’s shops and restaurants. In addition to the town’s restaurants, food trucks will be located on N. Pickering St., behind the BB&T Bank during the event.

The Middleburg Christmas Parade begins at 2 p.m. as spectators line the sidewalks

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along Washington Street (Route 50) to watch as a unique assortment of floats, troops, and musical groups march by. In keeping with the animal friendliness of the town, the parade includes horses, ponies, llamas, alpacas and a variety of dog breeds. Not to be missed are the antique fire trucks and of course, Santa brings up the rear riding on a beautiful horse drawn coach.

From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. adults can relax and enjoy the Spirit of Middleburg. The progressive hospitality of food and wine tasting will allow adults to wind down and relax at Middleburg establishments of their choice while sampling foods, wines, and spirits from throughout the area at local restaurants. Visit www.ChristmasinMiddleburg.org for a full list of Spirit of Middleburg stops.

“Christmas in Middleburg is a wonderful family festival,” said Parade Organizer Jim Herbert. “This year’s event will be especially exciting because the parade day will feature more food and drink, more amenities, with unique activities taking place throughout the day for visitors to enjoy. Christmas in Middleburg is where you see everything that Middleburg is really all about.”

The Middleburg Business and Professional Association will host a Christmas Tree

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Lighting ceremony on Friday, December 1.

Caroling begins at 5 p.m., behind the Pink Box Visitor Center at 12 North Madison St. Refreshments will also be served. Mayor Betsy Allen Davis will lead the countdown to the tree lighting. The town’s Christmas tree features over 1,000 lights.

Event parking for Christmas in Middleburg will be available for $20 per vehicle, one mile east of Middleburg on Rt. 50.

Free shuttle service will be provided. For more information call the Pink Box Visitor Center at 540-687-8888 or email Organizer@ChristmasinMiddleburg.org. Visit www.ChristmasinMiddleburg.org to view an event schedule, list of activities, shop specials, and more. Follow Christmas in Middleburg on Facebook for event updates.

Getting there: Middleburg is located approximately 45 minutes from Washington, DC and is in close proximity to Dulles International Airport. To get there from metropolitan Washington, take I-66 West to Route 50 West (Exit 57B) toward Winchester. Drive approximately 25 miles to Middleburg. Event parking will be available for $20 per vehicle, one mile east of Middleburg on Rt. 50. Free shuttle service will be provided. ML

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ProPerties in Hunt Country stonYHurst

LIBertY HALL

This fully renovated brick home by Swiss architect Henri de Heller in 1938 sits on 5+ professionally landscaped acres in downtown Warrenton. House has influences from the Modernistic Movement & listed on the Nat’l Register of Historic Places. 5 BRs, 5.5 BAs, formal Living Room, Dining Room, Den, Conservatory, gourmet Eat-in Kitchen, Family Room & 6 fireplaces. The grounds have over 100+ species of trees, shrubs, flowers, terraced gardens & stonewalls all centered around a sunken garden. 3-car Garage. $1,775,000

Paris~ Circa 1770, Lovely Stone and Stucco Farmhouse sits at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, 20+ acres surrounded by Protected Lands, Spectacular protected views of Paris valley, Meticulous exterior renovations include Re-Pointed Stonework, Metal Roof, 2 Large Additions, Covered Porch, Basement, Buried Electric, Well and Septic, Fully Fenced, Mature Trees, Boxwoods, Ready for all your interior finishes. Potential Farm winery. $1,550,000

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the Plains~One of Fauquier County's oldest properties on 17.3 acres. The main house, c1790 is stucco over frame and has heart pine floors, beamed ceilings, 5 Fireplaces, 6 bedrooms 5 full and 2 half baths.

It is surrounded by boxwood and perennial gardens with a lovely pool, pool house and stone cabin guest house.

An old Virginia Classic and a must see! $1,100,000

MArsHALL ~ commercial: Great opportunity to purchase property in the town of Marshall. Zoned c-1, over 1.6 acres of land. Great location next to Oak View Bank, minutes from I-66 and seconds from Route 17. $1,000,000

rein duPont (540) 454-3355

Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601

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YorKsHIre House

Meticulously renovated c.1890 VA fieldstoneManor house on 94 acs. Less than 1 mile from Middleburg.

Formal Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, gourmet kitchen, 3+ Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, separate Office & 2 porches. Hardwood floors, 5 fireplaces & custom cabinetry thru-out. Extensive landscaping 200+ new trees, rebuilt stonewalls & new driveway.

Gardens, pool, 2 barns, workshop, old tenant house & 4-board fencing. 1 subdivision allowed. $4,425,000

cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201 wILLowcroft

Marshall~Fully renovated home nestled amongst large farms on 1 manicured acre in sought after area. Enjoy a traditional country home on the outside with a sophisticated, contemporary design within. 3-4 BRs, 2.5 BAs w/open Kitchen & Eat-In area, DR w/original stone fireplace, LR with built-ins, bay window and fireplace, separate Office or 1st Flr BR. Master Suite w/lux BA & His & Her Walk-ins. Large open flagstone terrace, porches and extensive landscaping. $1,135,000

cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

rebecca Poston (540) 771-7520

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tHe PLAIns~Rare 6 acre parcel along prestigious Zulla Road. Fully wooded w/slightly rolling terrain & house site farther back away from road. Existing driveway better entered driving North on Zulla. 500+' of road frontage. Small stream. Old septic permit available. EZ to I-66. $450,000

Middleburg ~ Custom estate home on 3+ lush acres minutes to town. This 6,000+ sq. ft. former model has open floor plan with 5 Bedrooms, 6 Baths, stunning Chef's Kitchen that opens to Family Rm w/fireplace, wall of windows & spacious side covered porch. Formal Living Rm w/fireplace, Dining Rm, Den/Office, & Master Suite with Sitting Room, his & her Walk-ins & Luxury Bath. Quality finishes throughout include hardwood floors & crown molding. Spacious Nanny Suite on top level. Fully finished lower level with Rec. Room. 3-car attached garage. $895,000

cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

5 PoInts rd~ Want to live near Middleburg in Northern Fauquier County? Than build your new home on 3.04 acres of rolling, secluded wood land just off prestigious Atoka Road.

This lot is in an area of lovely homes and large farms. The setting offers a private home site in amongst mature trees with stonewalls and both pastoral and Blue Ridge Mountain views. delaplane~ Located in the historic village, this 4 Ideal commuter location with easy access to both Route 50 & Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home has been meticulously I-66. Approved drainfield site on file. Don’t miss! $300,000 renovated. Features original hardwood floors, 5 fireplaces, formal Living Room, Dining Room & roKeBY roAd~ upperville 1.84 acre parcel with 3 Library. All new gourmet Kitchen, Baths & Master Bedroom septic Certificate on hand. Mostly wooded with Bedroom Suite. Re-plastered walls, new lighting, new sound system, extensive landscaping, fantastic views to the east! Great opportunity to own in a furnace/AC, fenced back yard, expansive rear terrace, covered prime location! $299,999 front porch & detached 2-car garage. $749,000

cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

Please see over 100 of our fine estates and exclusive country properties by visiting www.THOMAS-TALBOT.com Susie Ashcom Cricket Bedford Catherine Bernache Snowden Clarke John Coles Rein duPont Cary Embury Barrington Hall

THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE A stAuncH AdVocAte of LAnd eAseMents LAnd And estAte AGents sInce 1967 Middleburg, Virginia 20118

(540) 687-6500

Phillip S. Thomas, Sr.

Celebrating his 55th year in Real Estate.

Julien Lacaze Anne V. Marstiller Brian McGowan Jim McGowan Mary Ann McGowan Rebecca Poston Emily Ristau

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.