May 2022 by Middleburg Life

Volume 39 Issue 5 | May 2022 | middleburglife.com

WOMEN TO WATCH IN HUNT COUNTRY MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM

THE MIDDLEBURG SPRING RACES

May in Middleburg:

Art, Music, Films & More Mt. Defiance Debuts Gin Nouveau Subscribe Here

MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

S I M P LY B E T T E R . NEW PRICE

33846 FOXLEASE LN | UPPERVILLE

19492 SHELBURNE GLEBE RD | LEESBURG

$9,500,000 | Welcome to the luxurious Littleton Farm on 153+/- glorious acres* oﬀering a main house with 10 beds, 9 full baths, and 3 half baths; 3 tenant houses/apartments with 9 beds and 5 baths; 2 horse barns with 29 stalls; 4 run-in sheds; 6 bay garage; riding ring with competitive footing; multiple fenced paddocks; 2 silos; lighted helipad; and trails to ride out. Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1339 Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

$4,475,000 | This tranquil 229.52+/- acres estate of signiﬁcant historic importance oﬀers a main house, guest house, and several out buildings in an 18th century setting. It overlooks Oliver Lake and has broad views to the west of the Blue Ridge. Add’l acreage available upon request. Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1339

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

*The final acreage is subject to pending boundary line adjustment.

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

3264 MILLWOOD RD | BOYCE, VA

36933 & 36939 CHARLES TOWN PIKE | HILLSBORO

$2,475,000 | Turn-key income producing horse farm with gorgeous early 1900’s home and separate guest quarters in 4-bay carriage house apt. There are extensive amenities to suit any equestrian discipline, including a 90x200’ covered arena. The property boasts stunning views of the Shenandoah with breathtaking sunsets.

$1,300,000 | A unique commercial and residential oﬀering, the Hill Tom Market and adjacent stone building, located in the heart of Hillsboro on route 9 are now available for sale! The Hill Tom Market currently operates as a thriving local convenience store.

Ali Tripp 540.690.4024

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1339

T H E N U M B E R S S P E A K F O R T H E M S E LV E S : HOMES SOLD IN 2022

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

LOOKING FOR LAND? Visit bit.ly/middleburgland

Statistics taken from BrightMLS 1/1/2022 - 4/20/2022 Closed transaction totals based on each brokerage's Middleburg oﬃce production.

MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

SHERIDAN-MACMAHON THOMAS & TALBOT WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES HUNT COUNTRY SOTHEBY’S MCENEARNEY ASSOCIATES, INC. LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE, INC.

S I M P LY B E T T E R . | M I D D L E B U R G R E A L E S TAT E . C O M MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, WINCHESTER & CHARLES TOWN | CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 LICENSED IN VA + WV + MD | VA PRINCIPAL BROKER, PETER PEJACSEVICH | WV + MD PRINCIPAL BROKER, JOSH BEALL

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Roger Dale Brown OPAM, AISM, ASMAF, ARC, PAPA

Drifting Down, 30" x 40", oil on linen

Exploring Virginia’s Beautiful Piedmont | Exhibit | May 21–July 2, 2022

Opening at 40 Main Street | Saturday, May 21, 11 am–3 pm | Meet Roger Dale Brown and watch him paint

End of a Season, 18" x 24" oil on linen

Secluded, 24" x 18" oil on linen

Old Town, 20" x 36" oil on linen

Quiet Passage, 30" x 40" oil on linen

BERKLEY GALLERY 31 & 40 Main Street Warrenton, va 20186 | www.berkleygallery . com | Wed–Sat 10–5 | 540-341-7367

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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR | PUBLISHER Christian Bentley | christian@middleburglife.com ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Vicky Mashaw | vmashaw@middleburglife.com Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR Joanne Maisano

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PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media, LLC EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kaitlin Hill | kaitlin@middleburglife.com COPY EDITOR: Victoria Peace

m i d d l e b u r g l iLooking f e . c o m • for M AYmore? 2022

MARKETING: Shell Peterson DESIGNER: Elisa Hernandez PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Nicky Marshok ON THE COVER Parker Hendriks and Iranistan charge ahead to win the Temple Gwathmey (Grade II) Stakes at the Middleburg Spring Races on April 23, 2022. Photo by Joanne Maisano. ON THIS PAGE Spring has sprung at Goodstone Inn complete with sweeping mountain views dotted with new greenery and fresh blooms. Photo by Kaitlin Hill.

ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE Greenhill Media, LLC P.O. Box 328 | Middleburg, VA 20118-0328 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. All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Ashburn, Boyce, Delaplane, Dulles, Front Royal, Gainesville, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, Purcellville, The Plains, Rectortown, Reston, Tysons, Upperville, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.

FIND US ON: Instagram @middleburglife Twitter @middleburglife Facebook.com/middleburglife

www.MiddleburgLife.com | Get additional content online!

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CONTRIBUTORS Heidi Baumstark has been writing for several lifestyle magazines and newspaper publications since 2005, specializing in history-related articles highlighting Virginia’s Piedmont. She has been with Middleburg Life since 2014. Over the years, she has featured hundreds of businesses, leaders, residents, historical sights, lectures, heritage programs, and museums in her work. Heidi hopes to inspire readers to pause and consider the people, places, and events that have shaped the story of our local history. Michael Butcher is the owner of Butcher Photography. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, he resides in Springfield, Virginia, with his family. For the past 15 years, Michael has specialized in portraiture, event, and editorial photography. When not behind the lens, he enjoys gardening and swimming. Sarah Hickner was born in Mississippi and pursued her dream of galloping racehorses to the backside of Churchill Downs while at college in Kentucky. Sarah has authored one book, “Stories from the Barn Aisle,” and is the host of the Author Shenanigans and the LiveRideLearn podcasts. She lives in Virginia with her husband, two kids, dog, and horse. Dulcy Hooper and her husband Richard moved to the country from Washington, D.C. nearly ten years ago. Shortly thereafter, both began writing occasional articles for Middleburg Life. Dogs are a big part of the Hoopers’ lives and several of Dulcy’s earlier articles focused on the couple’s Chinese crested powderpuffs! Victoria Peace is a senior at Georgetown University studying French and Art History. On the weekends, she frequently visits her family in The Plains. In her free time, she enjoys playing polo with Twilight Polo Club, riding with the Georgetown Equestrian Team, gardening, walking her family's dogs at Sky Meadows State Park, and visiting her retired horse, Taco. Her perfect “Hunt Country” day would include a stop at the local farmers market in The Plains, a trip to her favorite Middleburg antique stores, and a sunset trail ride in the Virginia countryside. Shayda Windle is a freelance writer covering the arts, people, and places that make Hunt Country so special. Her work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, the Fairfax County Times, and several online media outlets. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and exploring Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.

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Callie Broaddus is a Warrenton native and graduate of the University of Virginia with a degree in Architecture. After seven years as a book designer at National Geographic Kids, Callie founded the nonprofit, Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, in 2019. Callie’s land preservation projects and focus on youth empowerment are aided by her talent for storytelling through her camera lens as a professional photographer. In her spare time, Callie enjoys Earl Grey tea, Harry Potter trivia, and dreaming of getting back into the jumper ring. Diane Helentjaris chose Loudoun as her “forever home” in 1990 after experiencing Ohio, Michigan, Montreal, San Francisco, and New Jersey. Following years as a clinical physician and public health administrator, she returned to her humanities roots. A finalist in the 2020 Icelandic Writers Retreat, her book “The Indenture of Ivy O’Neill” comes out in June. Diane also writes a monthly newsletter, The Silk Mill, which is dedicated to those in love with fabric in all its glory. Lia Hobel is a freelance journalist, known in town for her blog, Uplift Loudoun, which she launched during the start of the pandemic to share uplifting stories. In addition to her work for Middleburg Life, Lia writes periodically for online platforms with articles appearing on GOBankingRates, Forbes, Huffington Post, and Yahoo! Lia began her career as a broadcast journalist, but left TV news when she moved to Leesburg, Virginia, with her family. She is a Loudoun 40 Under 40 honoree and a Certified Tourism Ambassador for the county. Austin Kaseman grew up along Snickersville Turnpike in a foxhunting household. He took a liking to photography when his mother asked him to take photos of her before each meet. Eventually, Austin bought his own camera and some business cards to stick on riders' windshields and the rest was history. Will Thompson is a writer and photographer interested in all things related to nature, conservation, and outdoor recreation. He has worked in communications and project management roles in renewable energy, international development, and mission-driven journalism. Will graduated from the College of Charleston in 2010 with a B.A. in Communications. Also in this issue: Laticia Headings and Shelby Morrison.

om out | | 6 n | ttage ed eam, acres

ains | ently ge

ater o,

ALL’S WELL FARM

MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

RUTLEDGE FARM

HALFWAY FARM

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

SPRING GLADE

PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Privacy and 107 acres between Middleburg and The Plains | Residential enclave of great character within a rich array of natural resources | Classic Virginia stone and stucco c. 1820 | 4 bedrooms, antique floors and rich pine paneling Two guest houses, stone cottage, farm managers house, 2 stables, machine shed and work shop| Extensive Little River frontage and 2 ponds | Tremendous views.

SALEM HILL

$3,975,000

$7,100,000 MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA VIRGINIA Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930 $5,750,000 (also available with 113 acresMARSHALL, for $7,000,000)

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

$3,690,000

$3,900,000

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

Paul MWEST acMahon 703.609.1905 OUT BELLE VIEW FARM WATERFORD, VIRGINIA M M 540.454.1930 h 32 acres in 2 recorded parcels in the beautiful valley along Blantyre Road 74.11 acres | Frontage on Catoctin Creek, sweeping views, pond | 3 homes, WARRENTON, VIRGINIA elen ac ahon

| Gracious home with impressive renovated kitchen | Hardwood floors, substantial millwork and fine finishes & 4 fireplaces |Perfectly sited to enjoy the views of surrounding farmland | 5 BR, home office, large family room, newly resurfaced tennis court, pool | 4 BR guest house with workshop/3 stall stable. Large field for turn out, 1 paddock and lovely hay field.

$3,000,000 Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

all updated in excellent condition | “Stabler House” 3 BR, 1 1/2 BA, fireplace and wood floors | “Oak Grove” Stone and frame construction, 3 BR, 1 1/2 BA & wood floors | “Tenant House”, Frame construction, 2 BR 1 BA, fireplace | Historic stone Quaker barn completely restored, 12 stalls, 4 stalls adjacent, 4 mores stalls in pony shed | Board fencing, 8 paddocks, 6 run in sheds, water in every field. Property in Conservation Easement.

$2,500,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

CATESBY VINEYARD

& 106 PENDLETON STREET RECTORTOWN, 104 VIRGINIA MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

UPPERVILLE, VIRGINIA

44.55 acres of which 15 acres are producing grapes | 8.5 acres of Chambourcin, Traminette on 4.3 acres and Vidal Blanc on 2.1 acres. | Vineyard infrastructure includes fencing, irrigation system and computerized well | Perc site for 4 bedroom home. Property is in conservation easement | Property can be converted to Residential use.

Rare opportunity | 2 recorded lots with C-3 zoning in the town of Middleburg | 2 separate buildings with 8 offices, 5 storage bays and ample parking | All buildings are in excellent condition

A remarkable property located within a private 17 acres of rolling pasture land in the village enclave just minutes from town | Stone and stucco of Rectortown | Convenient to both Routes 50 manor house with main level master suite | 7 & 66 | Newly renovated | Private setting with $1,400,000 $1,475,000 magnificent mountain views Paul additional$1,677,000 BR | 5 stone FP | Beautiful gardens, | 4MacMahon bedrooms, 703.609.1905 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Paul Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868 terraces, salt water pool, cabana, carriage house &MacMahon 703.609.1905 4 full bath, 1 half bath, 2 fireplaces | Heated stable with 2 paddocks | Lovely finishes throughout pool & spa | 2 bedroom guest house | & sweeping lawn to private trails to Goose Creek | Large shed & 2-car garage 31 acres | Private, elegant & convenient

$2,650,000

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

First time available guest house and broodmare barn on 28.62 acres | House completely updated, stucco exterior, metal roof, 3 BR, 2 1/2 BA, fireplace, 2-car garage. Barn, center aisle, 8 stalls, Blackburn designed, updated in last 5 years| Pastures in prime condition. 5 paddocks all with new board fencing.

HALCYON HILL

GRACE HILL FARM MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA

Period home, original portion circa 1768, portions 1850 & 1950 | Stucco exterior, metal roof, beautiful wood floors, 4 BR, 2 1/2 BA, 3 FP, spectacular living room with high ceilings | 30.29 acres, recorded in 3 parcels | Mountain views, frontage on Butchers Branch, campground site, old baseball field, room for horses.

RUTLEDGE FARM COTTAGE

$2,750,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

GAME CREEK PHILOMONT, VIRGINIA

203 acres i River fronta 4 full & 3 1/2 Gunnite pool and private | 5 stall Ji paddocks, pa | Old d

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Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

Circa 18 rebuilt a beams an Barn a 2 bedroom multiple b outsi 5

Pau

Dedicated to the Sport:

A Day in the Life of an Amateur Jockey Written by Victoria Peace

any college students prefer to spend the summer months relaxing, decompressing from the stress of the school year, and sleeping in. But this couldn’t be further from Chloe Hannum’s plan. “If I’m not getting up at 4 a.m. every day this summer to ride, I’m not doing it right,” says the George Washington University freshman. Hannum cannot remember a time that she was not involved in riding. Growing up, she competed in pony races, foxhunted, and even dabbled in eventing. “Anything that has to do with going fast or jumping big I love,” she says. The daughter of two former steeplechase jockeys, Hannum started riding in point-to-point races at age 16. Since then, she has claimed several impressive victories in the three-mile amateur timber races aboard her horse, Cocodimama. And she has no plan to slow down. Last fall, Hannum entered George Washington University as a biology major on a pre-veterinary track. Despite her full course load, she knew that she needed to find a way to fit riding into her schedule. When the foxhunting season started, she made the journey out of D.C. almost every weekend to hunt. “Hunting is my big thing — I live to hunt,” Hannum emphasizes. Hannum’s father is the joint master of the Orange County Hounds, so she often returned home to hunt with her family. But on weekends when that was too difficult, she took the Amtrak

train to Baltimore to hunt with friends in Maryland. “Getting up at 4 a.m. every Saturday to get on a train to Maryland is not something you do because you like it,” Hannum says. “You have to love it.” Hannum laughs when she recalls how she must have looked on the metro at the crack of dawn wearing her riding helmet and boots and carrying her whip. When spring point-to-point races began, Hannum continued to make the pilgrimage from D.C. out to Hunt Country so she could compete. While she can’t ride at school during the week, in order to stay in racing shape, Hannum runs three to four miles daily. She is also part of CHAARG, a fitness organization that offers fun and empowering weekly workout classes to college-aged women. “My parents are really big on [fitness] — you have to be 110 percent fit if you want to [be a jockey],” Hannum explains. Hannum describes her horse Cocodimama as “the love of her life.” She got him in the spring of 2020 and they were about to enter their first race together when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. While this temporarily delayed their plans, it didn’t stop them. The duo came back for the 2021 season and have been competing together ever since. Hannum loves that Coco is a safe and experienced horse that she knows she can always count on. One of her favorite racing memories on Coco

Hannum holding her riding helmet. Photo by Austin Kaseman.

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Life | Page 7

“Anything that has to do with going fast or jumping big I love.” – Hannum

“People have this idea of point-to-point racing and [becoming a] jockey as this thing that you could never achieve. But it’s not. If you just do it safely and work with people you trust, it’s fun.” – Hannum Life | From page 6 is when they won the three-mile lady rider timber race together at the Old Dominion pointto-point. “Old Dominion is one of my favorite courses,” Hannum says. On the last lap of the race, “I switched [Coco] on and spread him out a little bit. We were going a little quicker than my parents would have liked, but he jumped the last fence right out of stride and won it by three lengths.” Hannum also recalls a time at the Willowdale point-to-point races where Coco was much less successful, but still made her proud. On the Willowdale course, there are huge hedges that riders have to clear in addition to timber fences. According to Hannum, she and Coco were a little out of their league and got left behind. Coco is used to being around other horses when he races, and when he got left all alone, Hannum was sure that he was going to panic and stop at the next hedge in front of all of the spectators. However, he cleared it with no issue. “It was not a good race,” Hannum remembers. “But for me, it was so nice to have a horse I could trust completely.” For Hannum, the most difficult part of being a jockey is overcoming pre-race nerves. “Fear can play a big part,” she explains. Racing has the potential to be dangerous and Hannum does not want to push herself to the point of a serious injury. “I love it, I don’t want to have to grow to hate it,” she says. Hannum is grateful to her parents that she has never had to ride scary horses. “When I get on a horse, I know it’s a good horse,

and I have my parents to thank for that.” Hannum’s ultimate goal as a jockey would be to compete in the Maryland Hunt Cup. “I always say that once I ride the Hunt Cup, I will consider slowing down,” she says. “But then I know that I would have to win it.” The Maryland Hunt Cup,

ous events. Hannum rode in two sanctioned rac-

like the Virginia Gold Cup, is a sanctioned race.

es last year. This year, she doesn’t have the horse

The point-to-points that Hannum typically rides

for it, but she hopes to participate in some again

in are preparation for these larger and more seri-

Life | Page 8

Left: Hannum and Cocodimama clearing a timber fence. Photo by Joanne Maisano. Top right: A first place ribbon from the Orange County Hunter Pace. Bottom right: A scrapbook of Hannum’s racing achievements. Photos by Austin Kaseman.

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Life | From page 7 next season. This summer, Hannum will spend three to four days each week getting clinical hours at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center at Morven Park in addition to riding as much as possible. While Hannum is excited about pursuing a career as a veterinarian, she envisions herself staying involved in racing in one way or another for the foreseeable future. “I don’t ever think that I will stop doing it,” she says. “But I’m sure I’ll take breaks and maybe someday I’ll train on the side like my mom.” Hannum is grateful to live in a place like Middleburg where the sport is so popular. “People always ask me where I’m from and I have to think about it,” she explains. Hannum was born in England, spent the early part of her childhood in Chester Country, Pennsylvania, and moved to Middleburg in sixth grade. “I used to think that I was from Pennsylvania, but now I’m like, ‘No

— I’m from Middleburg.’ I love the community. Everyone has got your back.” Hannum’s advice to prospective jockeys is to “work for everyone that you can…You learn so much and hear from so many different people,” she says. “You can make your own [combination] of what you want to be as a rider and trainer and a horse person.” She adds, “I’m so lucky to work with people who have been so nice to me and made me want to stay in it and keep doing it.” One change that Hannum would like to see in the racing world is for more girls to get involved. “Virginia doesn’t have enough pony races. We have to get the young kids into it, we have to get the young kids hunting,” she emphasizes. “People have this idea of point-to-point racing and [becoming a] jockey as this thing that you could never achieve. But it’s not. If you just do it safely and work with people you trust, it’s fun.” And, Hannum serves as an example to young girls everywhere that you don’t have to make the

choice between riding and school — there’s a way to fit both into your schedule. “I’m like Hannah Montana,” she jokes. “I get the best of both worlds!” ML

Left: Hannum hangs up a bridle in her family’s tack room. Right: Hannum with her horse, Cocodimama. Photos by Austin Kaseman.

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BETTER, FASTER, AND STRONGER DOUBLE BOARD-CERTIFIED MEDICAL DOCTOR WITH OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

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Meet Your Neighbor:

Dr. Lucy De La Cruz Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Gracie Withers

f Middleburg’s many enchanting qualities, perhaps its most unique is the talented residents the small town attracts. Though relatively new to the community, Dr. Lucy De La Cruz certainly fits the Middleburg model of being both interesting and impressive as the youngest Latina woman to lead a breast cancer surgery program at a major academic medical center in the United States. At just 39, she was named Chief of the Breast Surgery Program and Director of the Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital — no small feat. However, even more awe-inspiring than her new titles are the barriers she overcame to get to where she is, the humility with which she navigates life, her desire to serve others, and her innate ability to uplift and empower all who cross her path. The daughter of HIV researchers, De La Cruz’s exposure to the medical field and underserved communities happened early. “I was born in Cuba, but I left when I was three years old to [go to] Africa with my parents.” She continues, “We moved to Mozambique in the 1980s and I lived there during a revolution — a civil war in Mozambique.” From Africa, the family would move to Spain seeking political asylum in 1991 and later join family in Miami. After a semester at the University of Miami as a pre-med student, De La Cruz set her sights abroad where she continued her medical training at the Universidad Central Del Este School of Medicine in the Dominican Republic. “Essentially I was just going to do a semester, like a semester abroad, to see if I Neighbor | Page 11 Dr. De La Cruz at Goodstone Inn.

“I wanted to be the doctor that bonds with their patient. I wanted to be able to have a relationship with them, so that I could be a guiding light through their journey.” – De La Cruz 10

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Neighbor | From page 10 would like it and to do some missions there.” She continues, “I ended up staying and graduating from medical school when I was 21 because the system is a little different.” While there, she also established a chapter of the American Medical Student Association which helped raise money for those who couldn’t afford tuition. Even at just 21, De La Cruz had a clear vision of what she wanted to do with her newly acquired medical degree. “I told everyone I wanted to be a surgeon,” she remembers, adding that she faced her share of skeptics. “Everyone kind of laughed at me. They said, ‘it’s a man’s field,’ first of all. And secondly, it’s very competitive. And while that might have deterred me a little bit in the beginning, it’s truly my passion. It’s my calling.” Her determination helped her land two research fellowships, first at the University of Miami, then at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., before starting her breast cancer fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. “I decided very early on that I wanted to be a breast surgeon,” De La Cruz says. “I fell in love with the field, and I always knew, [since] I was a medical student, I wanted to work with women.” Her preference for breast cancer surgery was, in part, inspired by her desire to connect with her patients. “I can be a surgeon, treat women, and create a bond with them…I was blown away that I could do everything that I wanted in one field,” she explains. De La Cruz continues, “I wanted to be the doctor that bonds with their patient. I wanted to be able to have a relationship with them, so that I could be a guiding light through their journey.” While pursuing her passion at the University of Pennsylvania, De La Cruz was still taking care of her young family in Washington and making the long commute daily. She remembers, “I would take the 4:20 a.m. train, so I would wake up at three in the morning. I would be to work at 6:30 a.m. and take the 5:45 p.m. train back to be home by 9:00 p.m. to tuck my son in.” She adds, “I did that for almost two and a half years, and seven months of that time, I was pregnant with my second.” When an opportunity at Inova popped up, De La Cruz jumped on it, as it would bring her back to her family and allow her to build a breast surgery program. She says, “I wanted to build their breast surgery, breast fellowship program. I was their program director, and I created their curriculum, but I always wanted to be at an academic practice.” After three years with Inova, she was recruited to join MedStar Georgetown where she was

named Chief of the Breast Surgery Program and Director of the Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center in 2021. But more than the impressive and well-earned title, De La Cruz sees this as an opportunity to reshape the way breast cancer is treated and offer her expertise to those that might typically go untreated. “Essentially, we do everything once you come in. We hold you by the hand, so you have nothing to worry about. We get you screenings, mammography, we order MRIs for you. We help with scheduling. We plug you into support groups. If you need genetic testing, we set you up with a geneticist,” De La Cruz explains. Her holistic approach to breast cancer treatment includes eliminating obstacles to treatment for a broader patient population. “We are planning on doing outreach programs with underserved communities and uninsured patients to get genetic testing, to educate about genetic testing, tomography, as well as providing for the patients who don’t have access to transportation or have limited resources,” she says. She is also launching initiatives for high-risk patients, creating educational material for Spanish speaking patients, and starting a second opinion program to spread her top-of-the-line breast cancer treatment further into Virginia. She shares, “I am working on a second opinion program for breast cancer patients.” She continues, “If you live in Virginia and can’t make it into D.C., you send all your CDs and pathology reports and in a week, we give you our recommendation as if you had come to see us.” She says, “If you have a cancer diagnosis, it is our job to help make it easier for you to navigate the process. And the faster we get [patients] into the system, the better quality of life they will have after cancer.” For De La Cruz, her accomplishments and ambitions are the result of having family advocates that inspired her tenacity. She shares, “I never realized I was someone who was tenacious. I never stopped to think about it, I just pursued things I was passionate about. But I think it has to do with my dad being a really strong supporter of me and my career and of me being an independent woman. He empowered me throughout my life. He was a great role model.” After the recent passing of her father, her kids continued to carry the torch of kindred inspiration. “My driving force became my children. When I became a mom…I realized I could not fail because if I failed, my son wouldn’t be able to look up to me. And that would be heartbreaking. Therefore, there was no excuse for me to give up. I have to push forward.”

Her kids also inspired the move to Middleburg, along with the area’s natural beauty and strong sense of community. “I remember we drove by the house that we bought. It was raining. It was foggy. It was an awful day, but it looked beautiful. I thought, if it looks like this on a rainy day, I can’t even imagine a sunny day.” She continues, “The kids love it. They spend every weekend here. They know the lady at the ice cream shop, they know the toy store, and Middleburg Common Grounds. It has become a part of their childhood. I want them to have this special place to grow up in…There are not that many places that are so wholesome where children can have a childhood.” Part of that childhood is making memories, an ingredient of life Dr. De La Cruz believes is essential for happiness. “I am a collector of memories…and my number one thing is to be able to enjoy my time with my children and pass on some of the things I have learned in my life.” She adds, “I am trying to teach them to appreciate every day as a miracle and as a blessing.” Being talented, tenacious, charitable, and family focused not only makes Dr. De La Cruz an expert in her field, but they are also all the qualities that make her an asset to the Middleburg community and a very welcome new neighbor. She shares, “The community is amazing, and I am looking for how we can become involved within it.” As she settles into her new role, and active involvement in town, it’s safe to say there are certainly great things on the horizon for and from Dr. De La Cruz, and all well deserved. ML

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IT TAKES TAKES A A IT IT TAKES A HORSEMAN HORSEMAN HORSEMAN TOTO SELL A A TO SELL SELL A HORSE FARM. HORSE HORSE FARM. FARM.

FOR FOR SALE SALE SHANNON CASEY SHANNON SHANNON CASEY CASEY

REALTOR® Licensed inVA VA in VA REALTOR® REALTOR® ||Licensed | Licensed in

M 540.222.2119 540.222.2119 M M 540.222.2119 O540.687.6321 540.687.6321 212 x 212 O O 540.687.6321 xx212 shannon@atokaproperties.com shannon@atokaproperties.com shannon@atokaproperties.com 10EEWashington Washington St 10 10 E Washington St St Middleburg, VA20117 20117 Middleburg, Middleburg, VA VA 20117

7453 OPAL ROAD WARRENTON, VA VA 7453 7453 OPAL OPAL ROAD ROAD || WARRENTON, | WARRENTON, VA Welcome tothis thisdream dream equestrian estatelocated located inthe theheart heart ofhorse horseof country, butwith withbut easy Welcome Welcome to to thisequestrian dream equestrian estate estatein located in the of heart country, horse country, but easy with easy accessto to D.C.,offering offering everything theserious serious amateur, professional, orinvestor investor maywant. want. access access D.C., to D.C., everything offering everything the theamateur, serious amateur, professional, professional, or or investor may may want. Thissprawling sprawling 33+acre acre property includesincludes twohomes, homes, oneon oneither either side ofthe the impressive This This sprawling 33+ 33+ property acre property includes two two one homes, one on side either of sideimpressive of the impressive 15-stall,solar-powered solar-powered centeraisle aisle main barn. The main barn hasbarn anattached attached indoorarena, arena, 15-stall, 15-stall, solar-powered center center main aisle barn. main The barn. main The barn main has an has an attached indoor indoor arena, $2,000,000 $2,000,000 $2,000,000 viewing viewingroom, room,hay hay storage, shavingsshavings storage,storage, jumpstorage, storage, washstalls, stalls, tack up areas, feed viewing room, storage, hay storage, shavings storage, jump jump storage, 22wash 2 wash 33tack stalls, up 3areas, tack up feed areas, feed room,tack tack room, bathroom/laundry room.The The property alsoincludes includes parking lotfor forhorse horse room, room, room, tack bathroom/laundry room, bathroom/laundry room. room. property The property also also includes aaparking a lot parking lot for horse BD||4 2/1 BA 44BD 2/1 BD BA | 2/1 BA trailers,fenced fencedpastures, pastures, woods,aawoods, pond,and anadditional additional 3-stallbarn. barn. trailers, trailers, fenced pastures, woods, pond, aand pond, an and an additional 3-stall 3-stall barn.

BD||131BA BA | 1 BA The sunny custom-built 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath main house, with attached 3-car garage has a 33BD BD The sunny Thecustom-built sunny custom-built 4-bedroom, 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath 2.5 main bath house, mainwith house, attached with attached 3-car garage 3-carhas garage a has a

spaciousspacious andopen open floor plan kitchen/family roomwith with vaulted ceiling.The The guest house and and floor open plan floor kitchen/family plan kitchen/family room room aavaulted with aceiling. vaulted ceiling. guest The house guestisishouse aa is a 3,000SQFT SQFT SQFT spacious 3,000 3,000 gorgeous single-level bedroom, bathranch ranch home with lily pond. Each home has itsown own gorgeous gorgeous single-level single-level 33bedroom, 3 bedroom, 11bath 1 bath home ranch with home aalily with pond. a lily Each pond. home Each has home its has its own

33.25AC AC 33.25 33.25 AC septic/well/generator. septic/well/generator. septic/well/generator.

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UNDERUNDER CONTRACT* UNDER CONTRACT* | $425,000 CONTRACT* | $425,000 | $425,000

UNDERUNDER CONTRACT* UNDER CONTRACT* | $375,000 CONTRACT* | $375,000 | $375,000 * REPRESENTED * REPRESENTED BUYER. * REPRESENTED PHOTOS BUYER.USED PHOTOS BUYER. WITHUSED PHOTOS PERMISSION WITHUSED PERMISSION OFWITH LISTING PERMISSION OF AGENT. LISTINGOF AGENT. LISTING AGENT.

MIDDLEBURG, MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, WINCHESTER ASHBURN, WINCHESTER & CHARLES WINCHESTER & CHARLES TOWN &| CHARLES TOWN CORPORATE: | TOWN CORPORATE: 10 |E WASHINGTON CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON 10 ST,E MIDDELBURG, WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA ST, 20117 MIDDELBURG, VA | 20117 540.687.6321 VA | 20117 540.687.6321 | 540.687.6321 LICENSEDLICENSED IN VA + WV LICENSED IN +VA MD + WV |IN VA+VA PRINCIPAL MD + WV | VA+ PRINCIPAL MD BROKER, | VA PRINCIPAL BROKER, PETER PEJACSEVICH BROKER, PETER PEJACSEVICH PETER | WV PEJACSEVICH + MD | WV PRINCIPAL + MD | WV PRINCIPAL BROKER, + MD PRINCIPAL BROKER, JOSH BEALL BROKER, JOSH BEALL JOSH BEALL

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SPRING BLOOMS AT AIM’S LATEST EXHIBITION Written by Shayda Windle | Images Courtesy of Artists in Middleburg

he Artists in Middleburg (AiM) recently announced the winners of their latest juried exhibition, “Springtime Splendor,” judged by acclaimed professional artists Jennifer Sims and Betsy Manierre. The exhibition, open to local artists, challenged participants to reflect on the wonders and new life that spring brings. The jurors evaluated the art submissions based on composition, use of color, technique, visual impact, and originality. Sims says she was looking for “clear and fresh” ways for artists to depict the splendor of spring, indicating she wanted “to hear the artists’ voices, recognize their technical mastery, see beauty and harmony in their designs, and understand their vision.” Sims, who has collectors all over the country and has won international recognition for her art, takes many things into consideration when judging artwork including “overall composition, gesture, control of materials, and drawing skills where appropriate.” Together, Sims and Manierre awarded Gayle Isabelle Ford “Best In Show” for her “Orchid Study.” The winning piece is an intricate watercolor painting of a delicate orchid which was inspired by one of the thousands of flowers on display at the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C. After spending 23 years in Colorado, Ford moved back to Virginia where she could be at home among the Blue Ridge Mountains in Hunt Country. Ford works in many mediums to “capture aspects of nature and the play of light and shadows that most people may miss in their hurried lives.” Perhaps it is this level of detail that helped her win first place. Sims adds, “The gesture is surprising and the subject matter unusual for a show about spring since many of us think of orchids as indoor plants. This need not be, however, and spring is not just what we imagine it to be in Virginia. The artist invites us to look closely Bloom | Page 15

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“Orchid Study” by Gayle Isabella Ford.

Bloom | From page 14

“Mount Weather Mood V” by Laura Hopkins.

“The Osprey-First Catch” by William Walsh.

at her specimen, asking us to feel the serenity of spring in a flower less famously associated with it. What other subtle beauties are we overlooking in our woods this May?” This statement about what we may be overlooking during spring couldn’t be truer than what’s seen in second-place winner Laura Hopkin’s tonalist piece. “Mount Weather Mood V” is likely not what first comes to mind when most think of spring, perhaps making it all that more special. Sims seems to agree. “This piece invites us to think: What happens in the evenings of springtime when the glitz and glamor of the newly lush landscape slides into darkness?” she remarks. Hopkins explains, “Every morning when I get up and each night before I go to bed, I look from my bedroom toward Mt. Weather. The mountain's appearance, rising behind the fields and woodlands, changes from moment to moment. Sometimes, a vibrant blue green, sometimes distinctly violet, other times, nearly black or maroon.” The constantly changing scenery of Hunt Country in the spring is nothing short of amazing. One day, you may be surrounded by tulips in full bloom, lush trees, and rolling hills, and by nightfall, you are taken aback by a full moon as flurries cover the flowers you just planted. Spring in Hunt Country is not what most think it would be. Third-place winner William Walsh’s “The Osprey — First Catch” is an acrylic piece depicting an osprey emerging from the water in the earliest hours of spring with his first catch from the sea tucked in his claws. Sims explains that the splendor of spring in this unique depiction comes in the form of a “still, wintry-looking landscape melting into a slightly less frozen moment. The artist has succeeded in creating movement without blurring the focal point or employing gimmicks. This is the edge of spring: a frozen moment of new warmth. One can often tell a successful work of art by [the fact that] the immediacy of what it conveys takes precedence over the technical proficiency with which it was done. This work does that, leaving the viewer to consider the skillful rendering with the second breath rather than the first.” There is no doubt these pieces must be seen in person to appreciate their true splendor. Be sure to stop by the Artists in Middleburg (AiM) gallery before the exhibit ends on May 8. And stay tuned for the next installment, The Horse in Art V, coming May 14. ML

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37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.6607

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DocWeek Middleburg:

Fostering Conversation and Community Through Documentary Films Written by Laticia Headings | Photos Courtesy of DocWeek Middleburg

mong the many reasons that people visit Middleburg is to experience the annual Middleburg Film Festival, which is celebrating its 10th year this October. But many are surprised when they find out that Middleburg plays host to another - documentary-focused - film festival that got its start at the beginning of the pandemic. “The response has been very warm and building dramatically,” says DocWeek’s founder, Tom Foster. With the first DocWeek in 2020, Foster’s goal was to bring people together through documentary films and to establish an atmosphere of mutual respect during a time when political tensions in the country were pervasive and many were

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feeling isolated because of COVID-19. “We really created this to foster community and conversation,” he says. “The idea was to show thought-provoking films that most of Middleburg probably hadn’t seen. S ome are brand new. Others may be two years old but in [those cases], the director is attending the festival to put a special spin on it.” T h i s y e a r ’s DocWeek will run from May 17 to May 21 at the Middleburg Community Center and will feature a different documentary each night. The five films span a range of topics, perspectives, and personalities, from a saxophonist and owner of a renowned London jazz club, to the women of Standing Rock protesting the oil pipeline. There’s also a riveting North Korean spy story that is the marquee film on Saturday night. “The director is flying in from Copenhagen and will be interviewed by Robert Gallucci — a Georgetown professor, former U.S. ambassador, and former president of the MacArthur Foundation. We also are flying in two directors from the West Coast,” Foster says. Tickets are limited to 150 people per film to keep the viewing an intimate experience. “There’s something for everyone and because it’s a small group, there’s a unique opportunity

to engage with the directors,” says Anne Clancy, who attended the first DocWeek in 2020 and got involved last year as a board member. “It’s nice to have an intellectual and cultural experience in a country setting with your friends in your hometown, without having to go to D.C.” Clancy remembers the first year when the festival was held in the fall and capacity was limited to 50 people per film. Each ticket holder sat inside a plastic hula hoop in order to stay socially distanced. “It was such a relief to gather outside, it was the only thing we could safely do as a family and it was a fun experience,” she recalls. The festival will be held outside unless it rains, in which case the festivities will move inside the Community Center. Foster expresses his gratitude for the use of the landmark venue. “I love using the Community Center. What town is gifted a 14,000 square foot mansion with a ballroom on six acres?” Foster, a retired investment banker, moved to Middleburg in 2004 because his partner, Steve Dahllof, is an avid foxhunter. Foster says, “We came here because it was so beautiful and protected. I think a lot of people come here for that reason.” The two bought land and built a house that they now share with their three Hungarian vizslas who enjoy running around the 80-acre property. After achieving success in his career, Foster wanted to reinvent the next chapter of his life. He decided to get involved with the Chicago Media Project (CMP), a nonprofit which helps provide funding for documentaries that amplify under-represented voices and drive social change. “People are reading less and watching more. If you want to influence minds, maybe the best way to do it is to create documentaries,” Foster comments. “You can make a lot of points in a short period of time and reach a remarkably Documentary | Page 19

tail party and sit-down dinner inside the Community Center on Saturday evening. Ticket holders also have the option to prepay for a picnic box from select local restaurants including The Rail Stop and The Whole Ox. “We realized that most restaurants are closed by the time the film is over and this is a nice way to provide dinner for people who want it,” Clancy says. The board of directors all have a similar vision: to knit people together through the power of cinema. “It's not church, it's not horses, it's not dinner parties — it's documentary films,” Foster says. “We've got to bring people together and create new ideas to build a deeper sense of community.”

Documentary | From page 18 diverse audience.” Foster started the Piedmont Film Club in 2021 with Rev. Weston Mathews and Carina Elgin by donating a movie projector and an indoor and outdoor screen to Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains, where films are played for the public the third Thursday of every month. Foster was also a board member for the Middleburg Film Festival, founded by Sheila Johnson in 2013. In fact, when the light bulb went off for the creation of DocWeek, he first approached the Middleburg Film Festival’s director, Susan Koch, to get her thoughts. She was supportive of the idea and told him that his festival would help to create a bigger community of film lovers in the area. “The Middleburg Film Festival is huge. They're a national film festival. They have movie stars coming into town,” Foster says. “We are apples and oranges. I tried very hard to craft an entire week that was intimate, small, and community-based featuring only documentary films.” For 2022 and beyond, the board of directors decided to move DocWeek from September to the third week of May to provide further distinction between the two festivals. Aside from Foster and Clancy, the board of directors include three other local members: Robert Dove, Joan Ramsay, and Jason Vickers. “This is something for Middleburg and we

want to see it grow and become an annual event,” says Dove, who serves as treasurer and got involved because he wanted to give back to the community. DocWeek Middleburg, now in its third year, features three ticket tiers. 50 tickets are available for individual purchase for the first three nights priced at $15 per ticket. At $250, the next level includes the first three nights, plus a special jazz concert on Friday featuring a quartet from Shenandoah Academy. The premium package priced at $500 includes all five nights plus a cock-

LIST OF FILMS: • Tuesday, May 17: “Breaking Bread,” directed by Beth Elise Hawk. • Wednesday, May 18: “Mission Joy,” directed by Peggy Callahan and Oscar-winning Louie Psihoyos. • Thursday, May 19: “End of the Line: The Women of Standing Rock,” directed by Shannon Kring. • Friday, May 20: “Ronnie’s,” directed by Oliver Murray. • Saturday, May 21: “The Mole,” directed by Mads Brugger. DocWeek Middleburg is a 501c3 nonprofit. For ticket information, please visit: docweekmiddleburg.com. ML

Top: From left to right: Steve Dahllof, Carina Elgin, and DocWeek board members, Jason Vickers and Tom Foster. Bottom: Film lovers take in one of the many interesting documentaries in the lineup.

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Off to the Races and Beyond with Natalie Fox Written by Kaitlin Hill

“I

would so much rather be around horses,” says equestrian artist Natalie Fox of how she spends her time. In April, she brought a selection of striking horse renderings to decorate a Middleburg Spring Races tailgate, showcasing how her art can have as much movement and excitement as what is happening on the track. Her portfolio is a study in equestrian anatomy and athleticism with a uniquely Fox twist - the result of an early exposure to both horses and art. For Fox, an artistic inclination was seemingly always in her blood. “My mom taught art for 35 years. My grandmother was an artist. My uncle is a painter. My other uncle was a painter. It runs through our family,” Fox explains. She continues, “I was always surrounded by creativity. My mom always knew that’s just who I was.” As for horses, she says, “My first encounter was my fifth birthday party. I had ponies at my birthday party.” Silver and Sydney, the celebratory ponies, made such a positive impression on Fox that she would pursue a deeper understanding of and involvement with horses throughout her life. While at the Savannah College of Art and Design she rode on the equestrian team, and would go on to acquire a formal education in horse anatomy at Michigan State. She shares, “I studied horses at Michigan State in their Equine Management Program. I just wanted to be around horses up there too.” Though Fox had set a strong foundation for a life in equine art, her path to portfolio building could be described as winding. Following college, as a young mother, she wore many hats to provide for her daughters. She painted pictures of passersby’s dogs, made and sold hot chocolate, built websites, baked and hand-painted homemade macarons, organized houses, and worked as a federal employee. “Oh, and I helped start a circus,” she says with a small laugh. “I designed and made costumes,

and I was a stilt walker.” She continues, “I did anything to keep busy and support my children. I was driven to make them happy, to survive, and to keep moving forward.” Circuitous as her career path may seem, in the end she returned to painting, and of course, horses. “When I was first introduced to steeplechase racing, I was so inspired by the power of the horses and their athleticism and was compelled to recreate that through my painting.” She continues, “I’ve also been inspired by the beauty of Virginia Hunt Country my entire life. And it just poured out of me into what it is now.” She finishes, “I gained so much equine experience riding them, studying their anatomy, and physiology. It became such an important part of who I am.” And it shows. Her renditions of gracefully galloping horses mounted by jockeys in jewel-toned silks reveal a deep understanding of how horses and the sport work. She says, “The thing I love about painting horses is their musculature, and the shine and shadows. It’s just so powerful.” And whether she sets the subject of her paintings to black backgrounds or includes the green-hued landscapes, her horses and their riders have the effect of jumping off the canvas. Somewhere between paintbrush and paddock, you’ll find Fox in her happy place where she feels confident in her career and comfortable with the yet-to-be-revealed path forward. In June, she is planning a joint exhibit with Barbara Sharp with more details coming soon, but beyond that she is just excited for the ride. She ponders, “Where is this going to go? And that’s part of what is so exciting. Every day I wake up, and I think, ‘What am I going to paint?’ or ‘I can’t wait to see how this turns out.’ Or someone will call and be interested in my work, or I’ll have a new project I really want to work on. That’s what makes this so cool.” She finishes, “The desire to create and to learn and to grow is what keeps me kicking on.” ML

Top: Untitled painting courtesy of Natalie Fox. Right: Natalie Fox at the Middleburg Spring Races. Photo by Austin Kaseman.

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Sell at Auction in New York!

Middleburg Consignment Day Wednesday, June 8 Our Specialists will be in the Middleburg area evaluating single items and entire collections for auction consignment across all categories, including Silver, Art, Jewelry, Watches and more. Discover our full range of auction and appraisal services.

INFORMATION & APPOINTMENTS

Samira Farmer & Reid Dunavant DoyleDC@ Doyle.com 301-348-5282

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ER ACT D R UNNT O C

Middleburg Country Estate

Chilly Bleak

Eagle Rest

152 acres $3,400,000 Open, gently rolling pastures and fields in prime Orange County Hunt Territory. Historic home dates to 1820. 5 BR / 5 BA with stone terrace and pool. Two Stables 15 stalls and 6 stalls, Kraft Walker, 8 paddocks, 6 fields, 3 cottages.

18+ acres $3,095,000 Exquisite Estate on a picturesque country road minutes from Middleburg! 7 BR / 8 BA, 10,000 SF of spectacular living space for a gracious & luxurious life style. Sweeping lawns & brilliant gardens, plus a free form heated pool & spa – all in a magical setting!

164 acres $2,695,000 Spectacular mountain views! 4 BR / 5.5 BA fully restored estate 3 miles from Marshall and rte. 66. Wraparound porch provides the perfect setting to enjoy unparalleled views.In 6 parcels, 32 acres of fenced pasture, conservation potential.

Mary Ann McGowan | 540-270-1124

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

John Coles | 540-270-0094

D VEE O PR RIC IM P

R CT DE RA N U NT CO

Bloomfield Estate

Willwyn Farm

Corgidale Farm

Aldie Residential

95+ acres $2,100,000 Spectacular parcel ideally located just north of Middleburg outside of the historic village of Unison. Private and secluded, with views of both the Blue Ridge and Bull Run Mountains. Open fields, lush pastures and beautiful woodlands.

21 acres $1,900,000 Purcellville – Stately c. 1780 stone house with 5,300 sq ft of updated living space. Timeless features remain such as walnut 3-story staircase, heart pine flooring and 5 fireplaces. Guest house, bank barn with 9-stalls / 8 paddocks. FIOS and a backup generator.

10+ acres $1,700,000 Stunning custom built colonial in pristine condition. Over 5000 sq. ft. with a fabulous open floor plan, 4/5 BRs, 5.5 BAs, granite counter tops, refinished HW floors, new carpeting and freshly painted. 2400 sq.ft. stable, 2 fenced paddocks, automatic waterers.

1 acre $1,290,000 Beautiful and completely renovated 4 BR, 4.5 bath historic residence with over 3000 SqFt of charm and superior quality! All new systems, Anderson windows, silestone counters, plus a one BR apartment, with separate entrance. 2 bay garage.

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Brian McGowan | 703-927-4070

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

ER ACT D R UNNT CO

Crest Hill

MAY 2022

Swain Mountain Farm

30 acres $5,900,000 Country Estate superbly built in a classic Tuscan style architecture, includes 5 BRs 8 1/2 BAs, 11,000 sq.ft. of living space on 2 levels with an additional 5,000 sq.ft. of finished space on the walkout level. Heated pool & Jacuzzi, a separate 2500 sq. ft. guest house, 8 stall center aisle stable and run-in shed.

116 N. Jay Street

Craftsman Cottage

5194 Leeds Manor Rd.

5+ acres $1,200,000 Charming, unique home with convenient location to Route 66 and town of Marshall. Two log cabins have been lovingly restored and merged to create this wonderful country home. Two car garage, work shop and efficiency apartment. High speed internet.

.12 acres $990,000 This gorgeous three level Town Home is wonderfully located in prestigious Steeplechase Run, in the charming village of historic Middleburg. Offering luxurious country living and a carefree lifestyle in a lovely, sought-after community.

.34 acres $950,000 Middleburg – 2 adjacent in-town lots. Each Lot consisting of .17 acres. Premium corner location. Reimagine the circa 1923 dwellings classic lines and elevate it to current favor or start from the ground up. Build on one or both of the Lots.

2 acres $849,000 Hume – BEAUTIFUL, NEW HOME with 3 FINISHED LEVELS and spectacular Big Cobbler Mountain Views. Sited on 2 cleared and fenced acres minutes from Marshall, The Plains, Middleburg, Warrenton and Interstate 66.

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

Brian McGowan | 703-927-4070

Wayne Wilson | 540-622-8520

Rebecca Poston | 540-771-7520

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warrante

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Protected in perpetuity Worth The Wait

50 acres $2,289,000 Marshall – Virginia’s horse and wine country w/ mountain, lake and pastoral views. Custom-built home has 5 BRs / 4.5 BAs. High ceilings; HW flooring; 4 fireplaces. Fenced, mature pasture for horses. New 45’ x 70’ equip. building.

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

Aurora

3 acre $1,250,000 Built in 1799, has all the charm and character of a 200 year old house with the modern amenities of one that has been well-loved and beautifully cared-for over the years. Located just outside the town of Berryville in historic Clarke County.

Cary Embury | 540-533-0106

Photo Credit: Gomer Pyles

Wickliffe Road

16+ acres $659,000 Berryville – Blue Ridge Mountain views and plenty of privacy. The sellers started a stunning Lindal Cedar Home “Cascade” model. Wonderful opportunity to design your masterpiece. Just minutes North of Route 7 in Clarke County.

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

ed nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

Thomas & Talbot respects the beauty of the land, lifestyle and the place we call home—now, and for future generations. We support and celebrate organizations like the PEC, Land Trust of Virginia and Goose Creek Foundation who make it possible to protect open spaces while enjoying the natural resources.

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations 2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

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GIN NOUVEAU:

A New Spirit at Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery Written by Dulcy B. Hooper | Photos by Michael Butcher

eter Ahlf, head distiller at Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery, is certainly a renaissance man. A former NASA rocket scientist with

about his interest in designing and building the

Ahlf started out making apple brandy. “It was

newly established cidery’s tasting room in what

a slow process because you can’t sell unaged bran-

a degree in aerospace engineering, Ahlf is also a

was formerly an automobile repair shop.

dy,” he says. Next, he moved on to rum and ab-

“I was working on the project when Marc

sinthe. For the absinthe that Mt. Defiance makes

woodworker. His workmanship is on full display

asked me if I wanted to be a distiller,” Ahlf shares.

now, everything but the anise seed and fennel are

at the distillery, as are his talents as a distiller.

“And I thought, ‘Why not?’ I was a home beer

grown on the property adjacent to the cider barn.

brewer already, so I had at least some sense of

“Absinthe is what really got us into botanicals,”

After leaving NASA, Ahlf was asked by family friend and Mt. Defiance founder, Marc Chretien,

what it was all about.”

Mt. Defiance bartender, Samantha Cuculis, serves classic cocktails featuring the new gin.

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Nouveau | Page 25

Nouveau | From page 24 Ahlf explains. The newest spirit at Mt. Defiance, Gin Nouveau, is described as a “contemporary-style gin that balances fragrant juniper with 13 signature botanicals.” Among the botanicals are coriander, lemon balm, anise seed, lemon peel, bitter orange, angelica root, orris root, grains of paradise, and two kinds of pepper. Gin Nouveau, like the other spirits behind the bar at Mt. Defiance, is distilled, bottled, labeled, and packaged in what was formerly a garage in a repair shop and is now a maze of large stills, barrels, tanks, hoses, and bottlers on Middleburg’s main street. “I think it is a fantastic gin,” Ahlf says. “We’re pretty selective about adding new spirits, but this really intrigued us.” It is also in keeping with Mt.

Defiance’s focus on “the revival of classic spirits.” The roots of modern-day gin stretch back to the 16th century in what is now the Netherlands. Originally, the “recreational juniper berry water” was made from distilled wine rather than from grain. With the onset of the Little Ice Age, the harvesting of grape plants was made much more difficult for European farmers. Unable to import the quantity of wine necessary to create juniper berry water, the Dutch shifted to a grain-based spirit. “Gin must be soaked with herbs,” Ahlf explains. After it is soaked for a week, it is then distilled — the process whereby the alcohol is separated and removed. As water is added, the alcohol is measured to achieve the right level. As of early April, Ahlf had just bottled the second batch of his Gin Nouveau. “We upped it to 80

bottles,” he explains. “Four bottles at a time.” The first bottling produced 60 bottles. To visit and buy Mt. Defiance’s spirits: Many of the products are available in Virginia ABC stores as well as select stores and restaurants in Washington, D.C. The Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery is located at 207 W. Washington Street in Middleburg, and the Mt. Defiance Cider Barn is down the road at 495 East Washington Street. The distillery is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. For more information, visit mtdefiance.com. To celebrate Mt. Defiance’s recently released spirit, bartender Samantha Cuculis shared three gin-based cocktails highlighting Gin Nouveau. Nouveau | Page 26

Left: Gin Nouveau joins the lineup of Mt. Defiance’s small-batch spirits. Right: Gin Nouveau.

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Nouveau | From page 25

with ice. Stir gently, top off with club soda or selt-

TOM COLLINS: Ingredients: • 2 ounces of Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau • 1 ounce of fresh-squeezed lemon juice • ½ ounce of simple syrup • 3 ounces of club soda or seltzer • Maraschino cherry or lemon wedge to garnish Combine Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a highball glass packed

zer, and garnish. GIN NOUVEAU & TONIC: Ingredients:

SOUTHSIDE: Ingredients: • 2 ounces of Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau • 1 ounce of fresh-squeezed lime juice • ¾ an ounce of simple syrup

• 2 ounces of Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau

• 1 sprig of fresh mint

• 4 to 6 ounces of tonic water

• Mint leaf for garnish

• Lime wedge to garnish Combine Gin Nouveau and tonic water in a highball glass packed with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lime if desired.

Combine Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint sprig in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with mint leaf that has been smacked to release its oils. ML

Top left: The makings of a gin-based Southside. Bottom left: Samantha Cuculis adds a final flourish of fresh mint. Right: Gin & Tonic, Tom Collins, and a Southside all made with Gin Nouveau.

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Free General Admission and Parking

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UNBOXING HAPPINESS WITH CHEERS IN A BOX Written by Shelby Morrison

ntering the office of Cheers in a Box in Chantilly, Virginia, you can’t help but smile. From the hot pink walls and stylish decor to the endless shelves lined with wine-filled gourmet chocolates, inspirational notebooks, and cheeky magnets, it’s hard to imagine that a company designed “to elicit joy with every client experience” was created as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jessica Shea, Aldie resident and founder and CEO of J Shea, an event strategy and design firm, was looking forward to big things in 2020. “I had just landed a huge client. We had our strategic meeting in their New York office and were about to sign the contract. Three days later, everything shuts down,” she recalls. “I had also just gone to see Oprah’s 2020 Vision Tour — I was so motivated and ready to go. My goal [had been to] find peace professionally and personally in 2020 and [then] absolute panic mode set in.” “Her preparation and mental toughness from playing sports became a factor,” shares her father, Mike Welch. “When COVID-19 hit, some people didn’t know what to do. Jessica has this internal drive that when adversity hits, [she] just [gets] up and [finds] something new and different.” For ten years of her career, Shea was responsible for planning roughly 50 events per year. The events ranged from large conventions, to association events, to trade shows hostJessica Shea of Cheers in a Box.

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ing anywhere from 20 to 4,000 guests. When the pandemic hit, she knew she needed to shift gears. “In the moment, I was like, you know what? I need to stay relevant,” Shea says. “So, what do I need to do? I need to learn how to do virtual events and I need to make them fun.” Shea decided to reach out to all her contacts in the industry. As a result of these conversations, she developed the “J Shea Joyful Zoom Series” to conduct research on how to make virtual gatherings engaging. “I created a series of different [events] — wine tastings, mixology, makeup tutorials — anything to get people online to see each other,” she remembers. “[For me] it was all research [about] what made people enjoy it and what worked well.” From there came the fun. “I had this idea. I thought, people are going to need something in the mail to guilt them into getting on [Zoom calls] and people still need to entertain their clients. They are not going to get on a Zoom to learn how to make a drink, you need to send them the drink or the stuff to make the drink,” Shea says. “I mentioned to a client, ‘We should send a cheers in a box.’” CheersinaBox.com launched in the fall of 2020. Shea’s new business venture developed into two divisions: virtual event planning and corporate gifting. For virtual events, Cheers in a Box sends each participant a curated box Cheers | Page 29

Cheer | From page 28 and provides a professional facilitator to engage attendees over Zoom. For corporate gifting, Cheers in a Box offers products which can be customized with company logos before being sent out. Alexis Wirtz, senior vice president of meetings and management services at the National Pest Management Association, has worked with Shea on multiple events. “When COVID-19 hit, the hospitality industry pretty much tanked. Nobody was doing events,” Wirtz notes. “Jessica has amazing ideas. And with Cheers in a Box, she customizes everything. We were all struggling during that time when you couldn't be in person. You could just come to her with an idea, and she [would] come back with several different options and make it happen. She's more like a partner, not just a vendor.” The possibilities for Cheers in a Box custom-

ization are endless. Some of the popular themes include wine, coffee, cocktails, sip and paint, realtor boxes, and in true Oprah fashion, a favorite things box where recipients get to experience products hand-selected by their friends. “We got together with [female entrepreneurs] for a round table at a local winery when Jessica told me she had started putting together her ideas,” says Estefania Arregui-Gomez, president and CEO of Abaco Strategy, LLC and Shea’s client. “I thought it was a brilliant idea. But what's more brilliant is the execution of it. She went from zero to a successful business in less than a year and it's such a happy product.” Paying it forward is also a big part of Shea’s mission. The vendors she works with to create the boxes are primarily local, small, or women-owned companies. “I just want to support other people,” she says. “I’ve certainly felt this as a small business owner, and I want to give back. Finding great partners is key in allowing you the

time to focus on what you do best.” And time management is something that Shea is very familiar with. In addition to running two successful businesses, Shea is also a mother of three. She and her family reside in Aldie, Virginia. “Success means different things to different people and for me, I’m home for dinner,” she emphasizes. “If [work] interferes with my family and spending time with my children, then I’m not going to like what I’m doing.” Even as the world returns to in-person events, Shea believes that “The virtual events are here to stay.” Especially when you know how fun virtual can be. “I try to focus on what brings people joy. You don't spend money on something that's not fun,” Shea shares. “[Focus] on what brings people joy and makes them remember why they are there.” ML

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GRIFFIN & ERRERA ORTHODONTICS

ADVANCED ORTHODONTICS FOR ALL AGES BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTISTS STATE-OF-THE-ART TREATMENT COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS 50+ YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE

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Come experience ﬂavorful new dishes, cooking demonstrations, freshly baked artisan breads and so much more.

CULPEPER, VA 505 Radio Lane Culpeper, VA 22701 540 825-8001

MIDDLEBURG, VA 107 W Federal Street #14 Middleburg, VA 20118 540 687-4000

info@geortho.com | www.geortho.com

540.687.9726

SalamanderResort.com

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Enjoy the beautiful styling, luxurious fabrics and unique linings that will set you apart in the show ring or on the hunt field. Shop R.J. Classics’ new spring line at the feed store today.

7408 JOHN MARSHALL HWY M A R S H A L L , VA 2 0 1 1 5 540-364-1891 • TRICOUNTYFEEDS.COM

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PROPERTIES SOLD

JANUARY- APRIL 2022

21173 Trappe Rd | Upperville SOLD: $2,400,000 | 4 BD | 3/1 BA | 100.04 AC

23532 Chase Hollow Ln | Middleburg* SOLD: $2,950,000 | 6 BD | 7/2 BA | 25 AC

16802 Chestnut Overlook Dr | Purcellville SOLD: $1,305,000 | 5 BD | 5/1 BA | 3.24 AC

18279 & 18285 Foundry Rd | Purcellville SOLD: $1,100,000 | 4 BD | 3 BA | 6 AC

104 Roseville Ct | Boyce SOLD: $640,990 | 6 BD | 3/1 BA | .68 AC

00 Lee Hwy | Washington SOLD: $365,000 | 25.07 AC

*Represented Buyer. Photo used with permission of listing agent.

KRISTIN DILLON-JOHNSON REALTOR® | Licensed in VA

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

KDJREALESTATE .COM

C 703.673.6920 O 540.338.7770 x 313 kristin@atokaproperties.com 115 N 21st St (PO Box 190 | 20134) Purcellville, VA 20132

Design-Build • Remodeling • Additions • Custom Homes • Show Design-Build • Remodeling • Additions • Custom Homes • Showroom GoldenRuleBuilders.com | 3409 Catlett Road, Catlett, VA | 540.78 GoldenRuleBuilders.com | 3409 Catlett Road, Catlett, VA | 540.788.3539 M AY 2 0 2 2

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Design-Build • Remodeling • Additions • Custom Homes • Showroom

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Needlepoint Shop Stitches Community Together Written by Diane Helentjaris | Photos by Michael Butcher

n 2015, Marcy Harris knew she wanted to buy the needlepoint shop in Middleburg. Being a person of action, she did just that. At the time, her needlepoint skills were basic — but her dream for the shop was not. Her vision included a move beyond traditional fibers and stitchery. It went beyond mere mercantile transactions. She wanted to push boundaries. Needlepoint, like other fiber arts, began over a thousand years ago. Ancient Egyptians sewed their canvas tents with small, slanted stitches. The archaeologist who discovered King Tut’s tomb, Harold Carter, found needlepoint work in another tomb which dated to around 1500 B.C. American needlepoint has 16th-century Eu-

ropean roots. It has gained a diverse following of fans ranging from Mary Washington to football player Roosevelt “Rosey” Grier. Thick wool thread is worked over stiff canvas through a grid of holes. The only tool is a needle with a big enough eye to accept the yarn. The tent stitch, a simple stitch over two threads, is the basic unit. Tapestry-like fabric emerges as the stitches cover the canvas. In contrast, with embroidery, thread is applied to existing fabric. Running a needlepoint shop requires a panoply of skills. Harris believes she “could not have done [it] without” Ruth Dilts. Ruth is well known in the world of needlepoint as the author of guidebooks like “Needlepoint 101” and has been

deemed a “needlepoint designer extraordinaire.” She called on Harris initially as the sales representative for a thread line. Ruth showed Harris how needlepoint had broadened in scope and materials over the past few decades. Needlepointers had begun to embellish their work with embroidery stitches for added texture. Silk and metallic threads, alone or as blends, created additional complexity. Overdyed thread added variegated colors. Ruth became Harris’s mentor and eventually began to work part time in the shop. She helped Harris achieve one of her goals — to “have a more diverse offering and experience” for her customers. Ruth Dilts will retire in May 2022 at age 83. Over the years, Stitch has incorporated modern materials and styles along with the traditional. Always popular are Christmas stockings, cushion tops, ornaments, clutch purses, and doorstop bricks. New to the mix are acrylic and leather-based items, small projects, and functional things like key fobs, sunglasses straps, and even backgammon boards. Once the stitching is done, Stitch offers finishing services. Harris discovered another need among her customers — one for connection. She put “a stake in the ground” in the areas of community, outreach, and support. Even in the more restrictive times of the pandemic, she found ways for people to connect with each other and to enjoy the shared experience of needlework. Stitch has become a hub. Needlepointers of all skill levels and ages drop in for advice and informal coaching from Harris and her staff. Formal classes are given as well. Two Wednesdays a month, a group gathers at the shop from 5 to 7 p.m. They visit, help each other, munch snacks, Community | Page 33 Rainbow threads and Hunt Country scenes waiting to be transformed into needlepoint masterpieces.

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Community | From page 32 and stitch. “This has become a big thing for us,” Harris says. Twice a year, Stitch sponsors field trips. A journey to the National Needlework Show at Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House in Alexandria, Virginia, is “always wonderful!” On the first visit, Harris looked at the entries and realized her group could contribute work to the event. In 2022, five members of the Stitch community entered the competition and one received a ribbon. Another favorite outing is to gather for a stitchfest on the Wednesday of the Upperville Colt & Horse Show in June. Stitch offers an annual three-day autumn workshop. Everyone picks a canvas and then works on their own personal project. A visiting instructor teaches, coaches, and assists everyone. Stitch also donates to charitable auctions and participates in community engagement. For instance, the shop created a custom needlepoint kit for the Oak Spring Garden Foundation. Bunny Mellon was a needlepoint enthusiast, and the kits helped raise funds for the foundation. A few years ago, Stitch put together an outreach program for women grappling with alcohol or drug addiction. With donated materials, Stitch volunteers taught women living at Brooke’s House, a transitional sober living home in Hagerstown, Maryland, how to needlepoint, providing residents a new way to fill unscheduled hours. Halted by the pandemic, a Stitch regular has undertaken the revival of the program. Harris recommends Instagram (@stitchvirginia) as the best way to keep up with Stitch’s activities and see what folks are doing. Call or email the shop to get on the Stitch newsletter list. ML Stitch is located at 103 West Federal Street in Middleburg. The telephone number is 540-687-5990. The email address is Harris@stitchmiddleburg. com. It is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is also open by appointment on Mondays and Tuesdays. Top: A horse pattern so small a magnifying glass is needed to appreciate it. Middle: The shop is a meeting place for Stitch enthusiasts and needlepoint novices. Bottom: Foxhunting patterns can be found all around.

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Tastemaker Conference: A Space for Foodies to Connect and Create in the Heart of Middleburg Written by Lia Hobel

or food bloggers and digital creators looking for a leg up, there’s a creative and educational space located on Middleburg’s main street that’s part of the nationwide Tastemaker Conference. This popular annual event connects hundreds of attendees to food brands and fellow creators while they learn the ins and outs of food content creation. “There are so many skills you have to know as a food content creator,” says Tastemaker Conference founder, Abbey Rodriguez. “You have to be your own marketing person. You have to be your own content creator. Your own photographer. Videographer. Chef. Recipe developer. So many different things. There is a certain point where people hire out, but if you’re just starting out, a lot of people want to learn all those skills,” Rodriguez explains. “Tastemaker exists to teach people all [the] different hats that one needs to wear to run an online creative business” in the food industry.

“I wanted a space where people could come and get away from the hustle and bustle and have this calming retreat experience while also having educational opportunities and networking with people within the niche.” – Rodriguez In 2015, Rodriguez reached self-made success with her food blog, The Half Butter, when influencer marketing was just taking off. The blog features gluten-free recipes, herbal cooking, holistic nutrition, and wellness education for the whole family. Its success earned Rodriguez dozens of brand partnerships, and she became a role model for others who wished to break into the food content creator business. “This industry is extremely profitable,” Rodriguez says. “Some of the top creators within our community are making $2 million dollars a year just on their ad revenue. It’s an incredibly lucrative business but also very fulfilling. You have a lot of time and creative freedom.” The Tastemaker brand launched in 2017 to educate and connect people within the creative community through yearly conferences. They’ve been hosted in cities nationwide including Salt Lake City, Portland, and Chicago. That same year, the West Coast native first laid eyes on Middleburg. She recalls feeling as though “there was something there for me.” The moment came full circle for Rodriguez last August. She was looking to cultivate a meeting space for food content creators to learn, collaborate, and simply create as part of the Tastemaker brand in a more intimate setting. “I felt like Foodies | Page 35 Tastemaker Conference founder, Abbey Rodriguez. Photo by Keridan Skye Photography, LLC.

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Foodies | From page 34 it was very serendipitous how it came together,” she says about finding the roughly 500 square foot W. Washington Street space. The interior is equipped for both photography and videography sessions and has the necessary lighting and backdrops for food content creation. “What we do there is host smaller workshops and it exists as a coworking space as well,” notes Rodriguez, who welcomes anyone to rent it out or drop by for the day. As for small workshops, the next one is scheduled for June. Over the course of two days, attendees will learn about Google Web Stories. For this workshop, “We are partnering with Google as one of our brand partners and sponsors that we work with,” Rodriguez says. “Google Web Stories is a new and upcoming way to get content out onto the internet from an SEO perspective.” Rodriguez says guests travel from all over for the workshops, and she emphasizes that the town

has been the perfect setting. “I wanted a space where people could come and get away from the hustle and bustle and have this calming retreat experience while also having educational opportunities and networking with people within the niche.” As Rodriguez has always felt inspired to create in Middleburg, she believes the town also inspires others to find their creative spark. “This is for anybody who is looking to get into the online food content space, whether you want to start a food blog, whether you want to start an Instagram, a Tiktok, a YouTube channel, anything within that space, we are here to help you understand all that.” In addition to creators, the Tastemaker team also works with businesses to develop their branding and digital marketing. ML Tastemaker Conference 108 W. Washington St. #201 Middleburg, Virginia 20117

Top: Abbey Rodriguez and Tastemaker team member Candice Probst at a conference in Chicago. Photo by Keridan Sky Photography, LLC. Bottom: Tastemaker Conference hosts intimate workshops at their Middleburg space. Photo Courtesy of the Tastemaker Conference team.

To Buy A Horse Farm, You Need A Horseman.

Direct (540) 229-1452 Office (540) 687-6500 snowden@thomasandtalbot.com 2 South Madison Street, Post Office Box 500 Middleburg, Virginia 20118

Licensed Realtor with Thomas & Talbot Real Estate Properties M AY 2 0 2 2

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In Memory of DANIEL M. SMITHWICK JR. “SPEEDY” Written by Kathy Smithwick Swain | Photo Courtesy of the Smithwick Family

aniel M. Smithwick Jr., “Speedy,” 62, of Middleburg, Virginia, passed away on April 23, 2022. Speedy’s passion was the sport of horse racing. He was born on October 27, 1959, to two Hall of Fame horse trainers, Dorothy Fred Smithwick and D.M. “Mikey” Smithwick. As a child, he juggled his time between Hyde, Maryland, Middleburg, Virginia, and Long Island, New York. He spent his summers on Mrs. Phipps’ estate watching his dad train steeplechase legends such as Neji and Top Bid. Later, Speedy would become one of the nation’s top amateur steeplechase jockeys with wins including the

540.619.2334 amazingoutdoorsco.com 310 N 21 St Unit B Purcellville, VA 20132

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1984 Virginia Gold Cup, the 1985 Pennsylvania Hunt Cup, and the Iroquois Steeplechase (three different times)! On December 10, 1988, Speedy would marry the love of his life, Eva Dahlgren, who shared his passion and gift with horses. Together, these two would take a big leap of faith and start their flat track careers training for the late Jack Kent Cooke in California and Kentucky. On the flat track is where Speedy found a path different from his parents and his true passion. He raced all across the country at tracks like Del Mar, Hollywood Park, Saratoga, the Fairgrounds, Keeneland, Churchill, Gulfstream, Belmont, and Arlington, and he made friends wherever he went. In fact, some would stay with him for the remainder of his life, like his beloved groom Clementino Salazar. He trained multiple graded stakes winners for various owners, but some of his favorite horses from those days included Ziggy’s Act, Zignew, Glacial, and Sauve Voir Faire. He could recall with

vivid detail any horse that he ever trained or rode, which made him an excellent storyteller. After the death of his mother, Speedy would return to Sunny Bank Farm in Middleburg, where he and Eva would dabble in steeplechase, foxhunting, and herding cattle. Speedy was known for his sense of humor, his kindness, and his optimism. He was a loving father and grandfather of Dorothy, named after his late mother. Speedy is survived by his wife, Eva Smithwick; his daughters, Kathy Smithwick Swain and Patricia Smithwick; his granddaughter, Dorothy Adelaide Swain; his brother, Roger Smithwick; and his many, many dear friends. A memorial service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville, Virginia, on Monday, May 16 at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation and Backside Learning Center at Churchill Downs. ML

Lawn Maintenance Plans Landscape Maintenance Plans Spring and Fall Cleanups Seasonal Pruning Tree and Shrub Installation Landscape Design Services and much more!

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703.232.7265 10 E Washington St Middleburg, VA 20117 VIRGINIAHORSEANDHOME.COM

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Middleburg Spring Races April 23, 2022 | Photos by Joanne Maisano

Saigon continues on after losing her rider in the fifth race.

Storm Team wins the Middleburg Hunt Cup followed by Andi'Amu.

A huge crowd looks on during the fourth race.

Going Country (IRE) wins the Allowance Hurdle.

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Snap Decision comes in second with Graham Watters in the Temple Gwathmey Stakes.

Polo In The Park! The Ambassadors’ Cup

June 18, 2022 Gates open at 10:00 a.m. Match starts at 11:00 a.m. on the Morven Park Polo Field Field..

Arena Polo

HOME | EQUINE | FARM | BUSINESS

Every Saturday, July 9 to August 13 Gates open at 6:00 p.m. First match at 7:00 p.m. at the Davis Polo Arena

TARA TROUT Partner, Farm & Equine, Private Client Specialist tara.trout@ahhns.com 703.737.2244

ROB RENNER Partner, Private Client Specialist rob.renner@ahhns.com 703.737.2206

For event details, visit

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ROUND UP YOUR FRIENDS Me ScanMe ROUND UP YOUR FRIENDS Scan AND SADDLE UP FOR A AND SADDLE UP FOR A JUDGED PLEASURE RIDE! JUDGED PLEASURE RIDE! SUNDAY, SUNDAY, MAY MAY 15TH 15TH AT THE HISTORIC AT THE HISTORIC OATLANDS OATLANDSESTATE ESTATE IN IN LEESBURG LEESBURG PROCEEDS PROCEEDSBENEFIT BENEFIT SPROUT SPROUT

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Aldie, Aldie, VAVA WWW.SPROUTCENTER.ORG WWW.SPROUTCENTER.ORG M AY 2 0 2 2

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Our Favorite Local Things for Spring Photos by Michael Butcher

Musee Women of Change Bath Balms including Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Amelia Earhart (Frida Kahlo and Maya Angelou also available): $10 each, Available at Chloe’s of Middleburg.

LAFCO New York Summer Fling Soap: $32, Available at Tully Rector.

Middleburg Hunt Cuff: $372, Available at Mystique Fine Jewelry Designs.

Hand-Painted Pewter Wreath: $186, Available at The Christmas Sleigh.

May Aesthetics Gift Card: $250, Available at May Aesthetics Boutique.

Mix and Match Hoff Collection Bergs Potter Pots: $25, Available at Crème de la Crème.

White Sage Smudge: $8, Available at Nature Composed.

Jockey Glasses: $22.50 each. Hunt Scene Coasters: $20 a set, Available at The Fun Shop.

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Krewe Sunglasses: $295, Available at Zest Clothing & Co.

www.georginapreston.com

GEORGINA PRESTON

info@georginapreston.com

BRITISH FASHION, PORTRAIT AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER COMING TO VIRGINIA THIS MAY Bookings and Enquiries - +44 7919 464753

A Decade Afield

Celebrating 10 Years of the NSLM’s

Museum

image credits at NationalSporting.org

National Sporting L i br a ry & M use u m

102 The Plains Rd, Middleburg, VA 20117 540-687-6542 | NationalSporting.org

June 3–September 18, 2022 M AY 2 0 2 2

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

“SPRING BOUQUET” AT THE BYRNE GALLERY May 4-29 | thebyrnegallery.com

CRÈME DE LA CRÈME TRUNK SHOW May 7 | 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. shopcremedelacreme.com

The Byrne Gallery is proud to present “Spring Bouquet,” an exhibition by three talented artists: Carolyn Marshall Wright, Dmitry Dorokhin, and Caroline Cutrona Hottenstein. The exhibition will feature oil paintings in addition to watercolors and acrylics. Sometimes delicate, sometimes bold, these floral and botanical compositions will thrill you with the energy of this new season. There will be a reception for the artists on Saturday, May 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. The exhibition and reception are both open to the public and everyone is cordially invited to attend.

Crème de la Crème will host a trunk show featuring spring linens from Garnier-Thiebaut. Additionally, sample Crème de la Crème’s bath and body line from Provence, France: Panier des Sens.

CHESS CLUB: WEDNESDAYS IN MAY AT THE MIDDLEBURG LIBRARY May 4, 11, 18, 25 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. | library. loudoun.gov/Middleburg Magnus Chess Academy instructors will teach hour-long classes for children aged 10-18 years to help launch the Middleburg Chess Club. Lessons will be crafted to individuals’ interests and ability levels. This series is sponsored by the Middleburg Library Advisory Board. For more information, visit the Middleburg Library’s website.

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COOKING CLASS: HOMEMADE BUTTERMILK BISCUITS May 14 | 1 - 3 p.m. | salamanderresort.com Whether you prefer them with butter, jam, or honey, Salamander Resort & Spa’s head baker, Jean Baptiste, will teach you how to make the perfect homemade buttermilk biscuits. The class is $79 per guest excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. To reserve, please call 855614-7136. FARMERS MARKET RETURNS TO BUCHANAN HALL May 18 | 4 - 8 p.m. | buchananhall.org The Farmers Market makes its return to Buchanan Hall! Every Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. through October 26, purchase farm-fresh meats and produce, artisan goods, and more while enjoying live music and delicious fare from local food trucks.

HUNT COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL May 20-22 | huntcountrymusicfestival.org The first ever Hunt Country Music Festival will be held in Middleburg and Upperville, Virginia. Produced by The Middleburg Concert Series, the festival will feature an eclectic mix of classical chamber and orchestral music, Argentinian tango music, and 1940s big band tunes, as well as free street entertainment and walking tours of historic Middleburg, Virginia. Festival tickets can be purchased online at huntcountrymusicfestival. org and onsite on the day of the performance. LUCKETTS SPRING MARKET May 20-22 | luckettstore.com Lucketts Spring Market is a wildly popular Northern Virginia event that showcases more than 200 of the best “vintage hip” vendors on the East Coast. It features painted furniture, vintage garden gems, architectural salvage, antiques, and all kinds of crazy-good finds. Live music, beer gardens, enticing food trucks, and fun workshops all make for a spectacular and engaging shopping weekend. This year’s market will be held at the Clarke County Fairgrounds in Berryville, Virginia. Please visit Luckett’s website for more information. Calendar | Page 43

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Calendar | From page 42 ART IN THE BURG May 21 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. | middleburgva. gov/310/Art-in-the-Burg Join the Middleburg Arts Council and the Town of Middleburg as they present Art in the Burg! In addition to paintings, pottery, sculptures, and photography, Art in the Burg has expanded to include multiple new genres including: Art in the Ox Pop Art Exhibit (both a gallery and exhibitors), a fashion show, cooking demonstrations, walking tours of Middleburg, and 10-Minute Musicals (performed throughout the day). NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY & MUSEUM FAMILY WEEKEND May 21-22 | nationalsporting.org On Saturday, kids and adults alike can participate in educational crafting activities including paper marbling and book-binding. On Sunday, the Storied Friends Open House will feature interactive story-time, docent tours of the exhibits, and a horsey meet-and-greet with Admiral the Morgan horse. In addition, any visitor who purchases a membership to the NSLM during the weekend will receive a free second membership to give to a friend or family member.

STRAWBERRY JUBILEE FEST AT GREAT COUNTRY FARMS May 21, 22, 28, 29, 30 | greatcountryfarms.com Join Great Country Farms in Loudoun County, Virginia, for their annual strawberry festival! To celebrate the royal strawberry, the jubilee is packed with live music, farm contests, wagon rides, great food, and fun games for the whole family! To purchase tickets, visit Great Country Farm’s website. FIRST NIGHT OF TWILIGHT POLO — MILITARY APPRECIATION May 28 | twilightpolo.com Twilight Polo Club invites you to bring your family, friends, and coworkers for an evening of fun and excitement in a wonderful outdoor setting. Twilight Polo is held at Greenhill Polo Stadium at Great Meadow and features stunning sunsets, three polo matches, picnicking, wine, food trucks, a giant tug o’war, games for kids at halftime, and a dance floor! Tickets are available online for $25 per vehicle (5 people), or you can pay $30 cash per vehicle at the gate. Limited VIP tailgate and box seating options are available. Call or email Twilight Polo for VIP information and reservations at 540-253-9845 or

manager@twilightpolo.com. “DOG DAZE: CELEBRATING THE WORKING DOG” AT GLENWOOD PARK May 28 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | mfha.com Join the MFHA for a gathering of working dogs and hounds as they display their unique skills. Watch a variety of talented canines demonstrate their prowess, from retrieving and herding to agility and military maneuvers. For spectators, there will be shopping, food trucks, and canine-focused activities and presentations for all ages. Youth can enjoy competitions that include stick pony races, pet costume fashion shows, and best frisbee catch contests! Admission is free. EXHIBIT OPENING: EQUESTRIAN ART AT MORVEN PARK May 28 | 5 p.m. | mhhna.org More than 60 works of art by famed equestrian illustrator Sam Savitt and bronze sculptures by the renowned sculptor Kathleen Friedenberg will be on display at the Westmoreland Davis Mansion at Morven Park, Leesburg, Virginia, from Sunday, May 29 to June 25. The exhibition opening is at 5 p.m. May 28; the $40 opening reception tickets can be purchased online at mhhna.org. ML

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Joyful Living with Jackie Wynn McEnearney Associate

Now more than ever, a home should add joy to your life. Jackie Wynn is devoted to helping clients find or market that special property... one that supports their lifestyle, hobbies, and dreams. Her eye for detail, curiosity, local knowledge, and 18 years of experience consistently create success for her clients. For an extraordinary journey, connect with Jackie to make your next move with a trusted McEnearney Associate.

Jackie Wynn, Realtor® I 11 West Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 I tel. 540.454.1452 I VirginiaFineLiving@gmail.com I VirginiaFineLiving.com Middleburg I Leesburg I McLean I Alexandria I North Arlington I Clarendon I Vienna I Spring Valley I 14th Street I Kensington I Equal Housing Opportunity