Nelson County Life, Issue #46

Page 1

NELSON NelsonCountyLife.com

C O U N T Y

L I F E

January 2009 No. 46 PRICELESS! (FREE)

mandolin maker pg. 10

DIFFERENT SLOPES • BACK FROM MUMBAI • GLOWING REVIEWS • MABEL’S COMEBACK PG. 18 PG. 26 PG. 30 PG. 36


“The Oldest and Still the Best!”

Experts in Wintergreen Real Estate and Recreation -- Since 1974

1-800-325-2200 Visit our new office on the mountain! Nelson County Winery Video Tour... Vacation Rentals...Free Internet... Interactive Property Maps and Guides! 121 Blue Ridge Drive - next to spa

Check out our NEW WEBSITE with INTERACTIVE MAP SEARCH, PERSONALIZED PROPERTY FINDER, AREA SLIDESHOWS AND VIDEOS, and much more! www.WintergreenRealEstate.com

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN 37 Peavy Point $669,000

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN 455 Deer Springs Lane $525,000

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN 150 Ravens Roost Ct. $315,000

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN Dobie Condos, Unit # 338 $335,000

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN Diamond Hill Condos, Unit # 915 $288,990

WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN Mountain Inn, Unit # 196 $129,000

STONEY CREEK AT WINTERGREEN 325 Wood Nettle Lane $690,000

STONEY CREEK AT WINTERGREEN 431 Hunters Point $599,000

STONEY CREEK AT WINTERGREEN 83 Oak Grove Lane $399,500

NELSON COUNTY 320 Creek Road $750,000

NELSON COUNTY 12689 Thomas Nelson Hwy. $540,000

NELSON COUNTY 628 Spruce Creek Lane $125,000

www.WintergreenRealEstate.com

P.O. Box 747/3079 Rockfish Valley Highway | Wintergreen, V A 22958 | (434) 361-0500 (800) 325-2200

NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009


Conte Alain SanGiorgio Home office: 434-361-1121 Cell: 434-996-4668

Francesca SanGiorgio Home office: 434-361-1121 Cell: 434-906-0934

Make 2009 a Success. Let us Sell Your Property! SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

HOME Garland Ave. • Amherst

LAND 12+ ACRES Virginia Lane • Nellysford

HOME Thomas Nelson Hwy • Lovingston

LAND 5 ACRES Turkey Lane • Faber

CONDO Laurelwood • Wintergreen

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

LAND 48 ACRES Buffalo Ridge. • Gladstone

HOME Roberts Ridge • Nellysford

LAND 170 ACRES Berry Hill Rd. • Nellysford

HOME Woodlilly • Wintergreen

HOME Tye Brook Ext. • Schuyler

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

COMMERCIAL Lovingston

COMMERCIAL Beech Grove Rd. • Roseland

HOME Honey Locust Lane • Nellysford

LAND 8 ACRES Cox Hollow Lane • Lyndhurst

HOME Howardsville Tnpk • Schuyler

Rentals Available

Afton, Va Basement apartment for $650/month; or upper floor of home w/ 3 bedrooms: $1000/month.

Nellysford, Va Views, hangar for your plane, an outbuilding for your boat. 2-car garage, 3 bedrooms. $1200/month.

Stoney Creek Elegantly furnished in a nice subdivision near Wintergreen. 30 ,min. from CVL. Longterm lease: $1800/mo; short-term: $2000/mo

Lovingston, VA • Commercial 3 private offices for rent. $200/month + shared utilities/ Large 500 sq. ft. basement: $450/month.

Stoney Creek 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage. One level living. Nice subdivision. Close to Wintergreen and Charlottesville. $1300/month.

1471 Beech Grove Road • Wintergreen, VA 22958 • 434-361-0335 www.FondlyFrancesca.com • www.FourSeasonsRealty.biz

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE


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Save 10%-50% in our Outlet Charlottesville and Harrisonbur g stores only

Let us help you save money on your next home improvement project.

NELSON C O U N T Y

L I F E

Editors & Publishers Yvette Stafford, Tommy Stafford info@nelsoncountylife.com Contributors Jennie Tal jennie@nelsoncountylife.com Photography Diana Garland diana@nelsoncountylife.com Ben Hernandez ben@nelsoncountylife.com Paul Purpura paul@nelsoncountylife.com Office: The Afton Group, LLC 6222 Rockfish Valley Hwy Afton, Virginia 22920 434.361.0104 Have a story idea? Email us at info@nelsoncountylife.com

With more than 30 years as a builder in Wintergreen and Nelson County, you can trust RUFF CONSTRUCTION to help you improve the energy efficiency of your home. We can do as little or as much as you want us to do. We can guide you through the construction process from permits to materials to the completed job. Services we offer include:

Replacement windows • Additions Framing • Decks • Siding • Trim

434.361.1858

Randall E. Thompson, Owner Licensed & Insured.

NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

Nelson County Life magazine is published monthly by The Afton Group, LLC and is distributed free of charge. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved. Subscriptions to Nelson County Life are available by mail at the annual rate of $28. Advertsiing deadlines are the 15th of every publishing month. For advertising information, download our ratecard at NelsonCountyLife.com or contact us at info@nelsoncountylife.com. Views reflected by our advertisers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or the company. Nelson County Life Magazine, published by The Afton Group, LLC is pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing oppotunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise ‘any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, or handicap, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.’ This magazine will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this magazine are available on an equal opportunity basis.


january2009 10

Let’s be friends.

mandolin maker But he plays the banjo.

26

back from mumbai Master Charles tells his story.

36

mabel’s comeback A new liver will make anybody smile.

inside

basic necessities ........................... 7 cover story ................................. 10 this old house ............................ 16 this new house ........................... 16 at home with marlo ................... 23 almost home .............................. 24 sam’s garden .............................. 32 ask the dr. ..................................... 33 the perfect fit ............................. 33 leisure guide .............................. 34 datebook ................................... 37

on the cover

Pictured: John Hamlett’s mandolin shop Photographer: Ben Hernandez Tucked away in a Nelson County hollow, this is where prized mandolins are born. Story, page 10.

Our Priceless Rag is finally on Facebook as Nelson Mag.

:)

know your nelson. NelsonCountyLife.com

from thepublishers No, I haven’t turned into the Log Lady but when your babe is napping, you don’t wake him up for a picture. Plus, we know what happens to children who are over exposed in the media. Think Gary Coleman. The Olson twins. But that doesn’t mean we can’t keep writing about the little bugger! Jerky and I have something in common. We are in love with Adam’s feet. I now get why moms squeal when they see a baby. The cheeks, the hands, the feet. Itty bitty baby toes are so kissable. And to Jerky, they are so lickable. Adam was testing out his jumper toy in the office when Jerky came in, perhaps attracted to the toy’s bizarre electronic beeps and whirls. As Adam stared at the multi-colored bird and blue frog bouncing above him, Jerky knew something was in the air and his nose went to work. Creeping closer, Jerky sniffed the toy elephant, the monkey and the bird. But it was Adam’s pair of dangling feet that triggered Jerky’s lick reflex and there he went! Adam’s first foot massage. This boy doesn’t know how good he has it. Adam has this funny way of tilting his head and cocking an eyebrow when he’s surprised. As Jerky licked and licked – yummy! – Adam sat there in wonder, neither smiling nor crying. I’m not sure he knew what exactly was go-

ing on but I wish I had a camera nearby. There’s another reason why there’s a piece of firewood in the picture. It’s been years since this old house has had a wood stove. Thanks to Cleveland Jones at Old Dominion Chimney, our box stove is heating the house quite nicely. What’s weird is Cleveland has a son – or was it a nephew? – whose name is Adam Thomas. Coinkidink. About a year ago this time, we were pregnant and didn’t even know it, which was kind of fun, actually. We had no idea what 2008 would bring. Imagine what could be in store for 2009. Who knows. Another log? Happy New Year! Yvette & Tommy Stafford

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE


winetime

PHOTOGRAPHY by TOMMY STAFFORD

5th ANNUAL OPPORTUNITY BALL

After almost twelve years the current Spruce Creek Gallery will be closing its doors. We will be celebrating all the years, artists and friends of the Gallery with a party. Please join us

Saturday, January 10th at 3:00 pm to enjoy the art, artists, friends and food

And look for the new Gallery to open later next year with special shows, hours by appointment and a new location. – Sue, Russ and Mary

Located one mile south of Nellysford, Virginia on Route 151 in the Old Wintergreen Country Store. Open Wednesday – Sunday 11a-5p ph: 434.361.1859 • email: sprucecreekgallery@gmail.com www.SpruceCreekGallery.net

It’s hard to believe that it’s been five years since the first Opportunity Ball was held. The annual event, held at Veritas Vineyard & Winery in Afton, benefits the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation. Guests meandered through to the cellar to bid on silent auction items, before assembling in the ball room for a five course dinner paired with Veritas wines.

As we joyfully celebrate 2009 we wish you good health, peace, happiness and invite you to explore "The Moon."

BLUE MOON ANTIQUE MALL & BOOKSTORE 8230 Thomas Nelson Highway Lovingston

434•263•8890 Monday – Saturday 11:00 am – 5 pm – Sunday 12-5 pm 1/2 mile S. of Lovingston light on US 29

GROUP PERSONAL TRAINING

YOLATES

WEIGHTLIFTING

AEROBIC TRAINING

Happy New Year! Let Us Help You Meet Your Resolution Goal ... and Have a Good Time Doing It!! Personal Training & Wellness Studio

PROGRAMS FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

540-456-8784 • 7850 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Afton, Virginia 22920 • www.five-star-health.com


basicnecessities By Kay Pfaltz kpfaltz@mbc.edu www.basicnecessities.com

Wine and Tourism Part III I finish this three-part series on tourism with some favorite spots should you find yourself on the French Riviera as the dollar slowly recovers. Normally more of a red wine drinker, I was once again seduced by Jérômine Paret’s dry, crisp, heady Cassis, Domaine de la Ferme Blanche in the eponymous port-side town with its colored houses and sea-side restaurants. Ferme Blanche has been in the Paret family since the seventeenth-century, but when a generation produced no male heir, Jérômine took over as the first woman to run the winery. Perhaps, however, the best wine is the simple carafe accompanying an equally simple meal: The air is warm but there’s a sea breeze and the hint of fall as leaves from the plane trees drift by on the streets. The light is pure and clear. Favorite restaurant in Nice for shellfish, Café de Turin, a fisherman’s bar that attracts every walk of life. Local Bouzigue oysters on the half shell as well as fine de claires and specials and sea urchins washed down with dry Muscadet in a pitcher. Margie, Flash and I sat down at a table outside as the lunch crowd was thinning and the light was low in the sky, and we didn’t leave until well after dark.

In Villefranche, my favorite town on the Côte d’Azur, there is the sea-side restaurant called La Fille de Pecheur (the fisherman’s daughter), that I think is the best in town. Catch of the day and all fish served is local, caught right off the quay by the boats chugging out early in the morning. The Chapel St-Pierre, painted by Jean Cocteau is just up the road and entrance fees into this tiny and incredibly moving chapel go to support two local restaurants one of which is La Fille de Pecheur. Cocteau stayed in the well-situated Welcome Hotel where we stayed and is famous for saying that he passed the best years of his life here. The interior of the chapel depicts the fisherwomen of Villefranche as well as the life of St. Peter. Another nearby church contains a statue of St. Roch, patron saint of sick animals. St. Roch stands, a large loaf of bread in hand, and extends the gift to a rising hound. Flash enjoyed being allowed (or snuck) into this church to gaze at the statue of man and animal surrounded by flickering candles. There is also the now famous La Zucca Magica (Magic Pumpkin) recommended to me by Joan and George Bonheyo on my last trip to Provence. The chef of this popular vegetarian restaurant has been

named best Italian chef in Nice. That the honor should go to a vegetarian restaurant is little short of astounding. But so is all of chef Marco’s cuisine, a set menu that is served plate after plate for seven or eight delicious courses. Marco trained in Rome and his other claim to fame apart from the restaurant is he’s a relative of the late Luciano Pavarotti. Domaine de la Ferme Blanche –Crisp, with notes of lemon and lime blossom, as well as honey. The Provençal poet, Frédéric Mistral described it this way: The bee makes no sweeter honey than this wine, as clear as a diamond and scented with the rosemary, heather and myrtle growing on these hills. $19.99 Permanent guests enjoy the infinity pool at Les Roches Blanche in Cassis. Cassis is a town and a dry, aromatic white wine, not to be confused with Creme de Cassis a black currant liqeur.

Kay Pfaltz is co-owner of Basic Necessities in Nellysford.

Café Wine and Cheese Shop

2226 Rockfish Valley Highway Nellysford, Virginia ph: 434.361.1766 www.basicnecessities.us A taste of Europe in the Blue Ridge!

Come dine by the fireplace in our six-table, cozy dining room. Leave work behind, step back into time and relax in an atmosphere of no-rush serenity and fresh, inventive cuisine. Dinner served Thurs. through Sat. Lunch served Tue. through Sat. Brunch on Sunday Note: No longer serving dinner on Wednesday nights, but taking reservations for private parties. Call in advance. Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 10am-6pm Thursday 10am-8pm Friday-Saturday 10am-10pm Reservations advised for weekend dinners. Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm

HOLIDAYS

Year-round Christmas Shoppe

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE


ontap

PHOTOGRAPHY by TOMMY STAFFORD

BREW TUNES

Come wintertime, beer isn’t the only thing brewing at Nelson County’s breweries. Beer lovers at Blue Mountain Brewery in Afton enjoyed the acoustic sounds of Jan Smith & Friends (left) while patrons at Devils Backbone Brewing Company in Beech Grove were treated to a live performance by the Piney Mountain Boys (above).

We are open daily this winter from 10am until 5pm so please stop in for a visit. Plan to join us for one of our upcoming events:

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AMBROSIA

BAKERY & DELI

garden design landscaping maintenance patios & walks stone walls water gardens 71 River Road Rts 29/6 Woodsmill

NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

Phone: 434-263-8786

Now Open – Wednesday thru Sunday 8:00am – 5:00pm Closed Monday & Tuesday 434-361-9661

Sking this Season or Passing through town...Stop for lunch before you reach the top at Ambrosia Bakery & Deli to Receive

$3.00 OFF

your total purchase! (Minimum Order of $10.00) Coupon must be present. Offer Good thru February 2009!

Wraps • Hearty Sandwiches • Fresh Salads • Homemade Soups Quiche • Dips • Speads • Fine Pastries • Breakfast Sandwiches Ham Biscuits and much more!

We take Orders for your Life’s Special Events Located between the Blue Ridge Pig & Valleymont Grocery


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coverstory

The man in the middle, the one with the , can build you a fine

mandolin.

banjo,

continued on page 12

Ted Pitney, John Hamlett and Andy Thacker play for a crowd at the Virginia Discovery Museum’s “Meet the Musicans” event.

STORY by YVETTE STAFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY by BEN HERNANDEZ

We recognize your home at Wintergreen is a relaxing place for the enjoyment of your family. We aim to protect your investment and will do all we can to earn your business one job at a time.

434.987.2730 www.JacksonMountainManagement.com Home Maintenance & Handyman Services

10 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 009

Jack Jackson

• Fully insured. • Digital pictures for communication clarity. • Weekend appoin tments available. • References avail able upon request. • Call today for a free estimate!


Brad & Al “The two for you” to build your home.

Where do I start, What do I do? Where do I go, What about the view? So many questions, Who can I trust? Do I flip a coin ... leave it to luck? Don’t do that, now that you’ve found your site See Brad and Al at Gaia Homes, and they’ll build it right! 2178 Rockfish Valley Hwy (Rt. 151) Next to Valleymont Market Nellysford, VA • ph. 434.361.1310 Class A Lic. #2705 0375564

Chill. You can’t really chill when he room’s chilly, now can you? A propane furnace heats quickly and delivers warmer air than electricity. Plus, propane produces significantly lower greenhouse gases than other energy sources. So, make your home comfortable and cozy. Warm up to clean, environmentally friendly propane. To learn more about heating with propane, visit usepropane.com.

Tiger Fuel Company 242 Front St. • Lovingston, VA 434-263-5031

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 11


“I’ve read how many articles about Wayne Henderson and they always mention his pocket knife like he’s this country boy that still uses a pocket knife. Well of course he uses a pocket knife. Everyone uses a pocket knife!”

continued from page 10 So the pocket knife is off limits. The one so sharp it cuts through curly maple like chilled butter. Butter chilled in a freezer. “It takes a lot of concentration. People tend to think and to say that I don’t have the patience to do that. What they’re not realizing is you just have to break it down into each tiny individual task and realize that this thing ain’t going to happen in a week.” And he ain’t kidding. Like his shop that’s tucked away in one of Nelson County’s coves, most of John’s mandolins are works in progress. Has he built a perfect mandolin? Not yet. “I’m optimistic enough to think that I can always build a better one.” Optimist, John is. Go-getter, he’s not. “You can’t be overly ambitious and do this,” he says, half chuckling. To tell you John grew up whittling wood in a backwoods holler, would be to tell you a lie. But it was the ‘70s, the economy was in the toilet, and John

12 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

distracted himself with music. “I graduated from college in the midst of a recession and wanted to stay close to home and couldn’t find a job,” he says. “So, I started learning to play the banjo and decided I could build a better one than I could buy as a flunkey and unemployed, you know, kind of a guy.” So he got a job at Stelling Banjo Works in Heards. “All I had to do is show up at work and get paid to learn to build mandolins is what it came down to,” he said. “I don’t apologize for those mandolins, they were all good mandolins, but it’s kind of nice to be able to make your early mistakes with somebody else’s name on the thing in some ways.” Care to chime in, Geoff Stelling? It wasn’t long before John left Stelling to establish his own luthiery where he could be as picky, or not as picky, as he wanted. “I like working with bigger pieces of wood and working the wood out myself and selecting,” John

explains. “I get better control over my materials that way. And I use a lot of wood with things that would be considered defects by a lot of instrument manufacturers and makers. But they don’t hurt the quality of the wood and they don’t hurt the appearance either if you’re staining it.” On the day we visited the shop, rain was gushing down the hollow. With the rain slapping against the metal roof, the mellow voice of an NPR announcer coming from the radio, and the wood stove roaring, the busy junked-up looking barn was quite lulling. “You learn to narrow your focus to what you’re actually working on at the time instead of being overwhelmed by not having drywall on your walls and shelves and cabinets that you need to put all your stuff out of your way.” It’s the place mandolins are made. And for flunkey John, it’s a living. “I always liked wood and I always liked music. And it combines pretty well.” NCL


STORY by YVETTE STAFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY by BEN HERNANDEZ

Luthier John Hamlett would freak if we revealed his Nelson County address. But he has one on the web: HamlettInstruments.com

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 13


D’Ambola’s

R E S TA U R A N T

Romantic Italian Restaurant. Full bar with traditional cocktails, imported and domestic wines and beers. Al fresco dining on deck.

snapshots VIRGINIA CONSORT PERFORMS

COUPON FOR

$5.00 OFF DINNER TICKET OF TWO (2) OR MORE ENTRÉES

WEDNESDAY OR THURSDAY DINNER ONLY EXPIRES JANUARY 31, 2009 This $5.00 coupon may only be applied to a DINNER TICKET for two or more dinner entrées that are not SPECIAL PRICE ENTREES. Specializing in fine housemade sauces and Italian regional delights. Seafood is a specialty, but that doesn’t mean pasta, beef, chicken, or veal is overlooked. Dinner served Tuesday – Sunday 9278 Rockfish Valley Hwy. Afton, VA 22920 Call 540-456-4556 or Find menu and directions on WEB.

It may not be applied with other promotions or coupons. It may not be applied to appetizers, deserts or alcoholic beverages. COUPON FROM NELSON COUNTY LIFE MUST BE PRESENTED TO THE SERVER

www.dambolas.com Nothing puts you in the Christmas spirit more than hearing the sounds of The Virginia Consort performing a Blue Ridge Christmas. The performance, organized Wintergreen Performing Arts, was held at Rockfish Presbyterian Church, just north of Nellysford.

Dan’s Landscapades Integrity since 1977

• Landscape Planting & Design • Paver & Brick Patios & Driveways • Retaining Walls • Drainage/Erosion Control Solutions • Outdoor Kitchens & Living Areas • Grading, Seeding & Sodding • Pruning, Transplanting & Renovation • Beautiful Water Gardens & Fountains

434-973-8399 or 540-456-8116 www.danslandscapes.com Member Piedmont Landscape Association International Concrete Paving Institute Certified Installer

14 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

PHOTOGRAPHY by TOMMY STAFFORD


snapshots

PHOTOGRAPHY by TOMMY STAFFORD

Pharsalia’s

hallmark is hospitality

JAZZ AT JONESBORO

. . . & has been for nearly two centuries. It is available for your special day . . . perfect for weddings & private parties.

At the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Nelson County, Pharsalia is rich in history with stunning views & lovely gardens.

A unique place for your special event.

Pharsalia 2333 Pharsalia Road, Tyro, Virginia 22976 434.277.5231 / Florencefx@aol.com

The Nelson County High School Concert Band helped spread the Christmas spirit to Roseland as they performed at Jonesboro Baptist Church. The Band performed for members of the Nelson Ecumenical Group, and was treated to a hearty lunch.

Call Hunter—Experienced at Putting People & Places Together Happy Holidays! Hunter B. Price, Realtor®, ABR, CRS, GRI Licensed in the State of Virginia VM/cell: 540-290-0694 • Office: 434-361-2440 Email: hunterprice@firstva.com

www.pharsaliaevents.com

Why Move? Improve! Butternut Construction will turn your existing home into the home of your dreams.

Remodel or Renovate

Additions • Kitchens • Bathrooms Decks • Garages Habitat Post And Beam Homes and Sun Rooms Custom Design/Build

434-361-1230

800-361-5155 • www.MountainAreaRealty.com

info@ButternutConstruction.com

JANUARY 009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 15


thisoldhouse Location: 56 Rodes Farm Dr., Nellysford, Virginia Offered at: $1,695,000 Comments: The Mark Addy Inn near Wintergreen is a premier Inn and Restaurant offering breathtaking views on 12.44 acres. Built in 1844 the main home has 72000 SqFt composed of 10 en-suite bedrooms(3 have Jacuzzis) Parlor, Music Room, Den, Dining room, 2 fully equipped kitchens and a 1200 sqft Penthouse with skylights, panoramic views, wet bar & bath w/ whirlpool. There is a guest cottage, studio and beautiful formal gardens. This unique property would also make an elegant home and has 6 division rights. Contact: Pamela Lang McKeithen Mountain Area Realty 434-361-2440

thisnewhouse Location: 530 Blackrock Cir., Wintergreen, Virginia Offered at: $1,300,000 Comments: Perfect for multiple families or corporate getaway. Mountain luxury abounds from this custom 6BD home seasonal views. Designed for 2/3 families, this home sleeps 12 easily and boasts 5 fireplaces, 6 flat screen TVs, 2 washer/dryers, office space with 2 desks. Move in condition with dual master suites with fireplaces, custom tile baths and dual shower heads. Great room offers towering stone fireplace. Pubroom with fireplace and 2 flat screen tvs. Authentic hand carved English bar. Rec room downstairs. Contact: Hunter Lynn Wintergreen Real Estate Co. 434-361-0500

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for Me? • You are over 62 years old. • You have equity in your home. • You are tired of making payments. • You want to use your home to get money each month.

Then the answer might be, YES.

Access Home Mortgages, LLC is now offering Reverse Mortgages through one of the top lenders in the US. Credit doesn’t matter. It’s all about the equity in your home. Call Arlo at 434.971.5626 (office), or 434.953.6565 (cell)

16 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

335 Greenbrier Drive, Suite 102 • Charlottesville, VA 22901

Licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission, Mortgage License# MB2576


snapshots

PHOTOGRAPHY by BEN HERNANDEZ

Wilson Memorial squeaked out a 38-33 win against Nelson County in the Governors’ first home game of the varsity basketball season. But the good news is the Govs did beat Buckingham 59–53 the following week. Go Govs!

Steve Marianella Receives Realtor Appreciation Award

I’d love to do your • I will return your phone calls

Small Jobs

• More than 25 years experience in “the trades” including managing estates and commercial properties • Painting, powerwashing, plumbing/electrical repairs, carpentry, and more!

Honey-Do Handyman Serving the Rockfish Valley

434-361-0269

Chris Barksdale

Wintergreen Resort Premier Properties’ Steve Marianella (on left) receives Realtor Appreciation Award from Doug Coleman, the Executive Director of The Wintergreen Nature Foundation. He was recognized for his tireless support of the Foundation in their efforts to preserve and educate. Our congratulations and thanks to Steve for his dedication to Wintergreen. JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 17


New Wintergreen Resort general manager Hank Thiess (right) chats with an employee. Before taking the job, Thiess worked at Durango Mountain Resort and Keystone Resort, both in Colorado.

different slopes STORY by JENNIE TAL PHOTO by TOMMY STAFFORD

It may be difficult to imagine, but WintergreenResort is apparently very similar to the Keystone Resort in Colorado. Similar, but better, according to Hank Thiess, Wintergreen’s brand new general manager. “Coming to Wintergreen is really appealing,” said Hank. “It’s a great challenge and a fun workplace.” Hank was transplanted to Wintergreen this fall after more than 35 years of working in the Colorado slopes. Already he’s got four key elements or values that everyone at the resort follows: “We’re clean, we’re friendly, our processes work and we’re productive.” Dana Quillen, public relations specialist for Wintergreen thinks it’s working and is excited about how Hank just being around is changing the attitude at the resort. “There’s a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm with the entire workforce because they see a new face,” Dana said. “Hank is out and about; he shows up at unexpected times which is great because if

we’re following the four values, then we shouldn’t be surprised.” Sure, he just got here, but Hank’s an East Coast boy at heart – he was born and raised in Pennsylvania where he learned to ski early. “I used to go skiing on a golf course near our house, a public golf course, with skis, so I’d carry them up the hill and glide down,” the new Virginian remembered. “When my brother and family were in sleds and tubes and toboggans, so I could ski before I ever went to the ski area.” And boy did he ski. Hank started teaching skiing lessons at Camelback in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Then, after graduating from the University of Northern Colorado, he started teaching skiing in Colorado and eventually moved up the chain of command. While working at one of those Colorado Resorts, Hank met his now-wife, Mary Ann. “She worked at Copper Mountain in the athletic club,” Hank said about Mary Ann, who has an under-

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Directions Season’s Greetings 18 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

From Rt 29 take Hwy 56 West for 2 miles Opposite Saunders Brothers turn South on Martins Lane – 1 mile ahead Black Eagle Farm 596 Martin Lane, Piney River, VA 22964 434-277-8497 • www.BlackEagleFarm.com

graduate degree in exercise science from the University of Nebraska. “It was near where I lived so I used to go over there and work out or ... see who I could pick up.” Well, Hank, it worked. He and Mary Ann were married and now have two girls, ages 8 and 11. Just before Christmas, Mary Ann, who went back to school and earned a nursing degree, and Maddie, the youngest, and Mikaela joined Hank full time in Nelson. “What I’ve been doing is working 7 days a week for a month and going home for four days,” Hank said of his previous work schedule. Now that his family his here at last, he’s just forward to exploring Wintergreen and Nelson County from a different perspective spending time with the women in his life. “I like to hike with my family,” said Hank, listing the things he hoped to do with the girls. “I like to ride a bicycle and I like to just hang out with my wife and kids.” NCL

Elk Mountain Crafters Specializing in handcrafted log cabins and restoration work. Also buying old cabins and barns. FOR SALE:

Lumber from 1890’s barn mostly heartpine 2x4s & 2x10s wide plank boards, tongue & groove Two 18x18 log cabins with rough sawn oak logs heartpine, oak & chestnut mantels

Meade Shirley • 540-241-9075 Marshall White • 434-996-7402


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A Partnership with Roy Wheeler Realty Co.

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 19


– Located in the Mountain Inn – Do you love Wintergreen as much as we do? When you buy or sell with us, you are investing in Wintergreen’s future – Call us or stop in and be a part of Wintergreen’s future.

The Official Real

Contact any of these outstanding Realtors® at our Mountain Inn office for information about Wintergreen and Stoney Creek real estate.

487 Cedar Glen Close

Brian Chase Managing Broker 434-987-4168

John Croxall 434-953-6566

Kim Chappell 434-238-2430

Pam Le Vine 941-724-4787

Value Priced Building Lot in Stoney Creek at Wintergreen Resort. This .51 acre lot is within walking distance of golf, tennis, swimming & Stoney Creek Grill. $88,000. Contact Kim Chappell, 434-238-2430 or www.ExperienceWintergreen.com (458209)

18 S. Knob Lane

This is a pristine 4BR home that shows like “new”. Mountain views, large great room with stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors, sold furnished and ready to enjoy the resort. Close to amenities including skiing and spa. Listed by Kim Chappell and www.ExperienceWintergreen.com, 434-2382430 $597,000 (459753)

1445 Beacon Hill, Afton, VA

Wonderful new 4 bedroom home to be built by Shenandoah Valley Construction; one of the areas premier builders. Quiet, scenic Signal Hill Subdivision near Cardinal Point Winery in Afton. Great schools, Western Albemarle H.S. Call Steve Marianella at 434-566-1293 for details. (459686)

740 Laurelwood Nice, value-priced 2BR condo close to all resort amenities such as skiing, deli, restaurants, Mountain Inn and retail. On official resort rental program with rental history. Turn-key and ready for ski season. $169,500 Listed by Kim Chappell, 434-238-2430 www.ExperienceWintergreen.com (459550)

110 E. Cactotin Drive, Wintergreen

Golf front mountain home! Amazing location! Priced to sell! Look no further! Views of and walking path to Devils Knob Golf Course 13th tee! Luxury living in the mountains, stone fireplace, master suite, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, spacious deck with built-in seating for entertaining, screened porch, long private tree lined entrance, The perfect family weekend/summer/ski/golf home! Sold fully furnished, WPI, A rare opportunity to own a spacious golf front Wintergreen home! WPI, Offer price: $425,000, Contact: Thomasina Shealey, REALTOR, 703.328.8680, email: bastide@earthlink.net (459295)

186 Mountain Inn

This condo is rated GOLD on the official resort rental program. Many upgrades and sold furnished. Close to amenities including skiing, restaurants, retail and the Tree House. Rental income potential or a great private retreat. Listed at $180,000 by Kim Chappell and www.ExperienceWintergreen.com 434-238-2430 (459877)

D!

E AT TIV O M

Steve Marianella 434-566-1293

Jim Mummery 434-531-5033 380 Cedar Drive

Mountain Estate Home: What says motivated more than a $500K price reduction? Some seller financing or sale w/ swap for your lot/condo or both! Gourmet kitchen, hardwoods, 3 fireplaces (2 gas/1 wood), mountain views, 1 acre adjoining Natl Forest, 5 beds / 6 luxurious baths, 2 car garage. $1,495,000. Also available w/ 2 adjoining cul-de-sac lots for investment/privacy. $2,495,000. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 434-296-9860 (459779)

618 Devils Knob Loop

Spectacular views & sunsets-right next to the Blue Ridge Overlook! Spacious home has soaring ceilings, rustic stone fireplace, hardwood floors & walls of windows to enjoy views. Open floor plan, private bedroom suites & large back decks. Two car garage. Backs to hiking trail & National Forest. Beautifully furnished & ready to move in. Amazing value for the best views in WTG! Big Price Reduction! $799,000 Call Christy Phillips at 434-987-6388. (459702)

ILL

Joan Mummery 434-531-5033

Christy Phillips 434-987-6388

Thomasina Shealey 703-328-8680

20 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

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764 Shamokin Springs Trail, Wintergreen

Rod Phillips 434-987-6399

V AIN NT

Dream chalet privately nestled, this home is for those that appreciate luxury and contemporary refinement. Classical architecture w/traditional materials provide an extraordinary living environment. Wrap decking w/seasonal views lends itself to exceptional outdoor entertaining. Four spacious bedrooms, two w/ensuite baths, each w/ individual style, chefs kitchen w/stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, 764 Shamokin Springs is singularly about luxury and relaxation, WPI, Offer price: $445,000, Contact: Thomasina Shealey, REALTOR, 703.328.8680 bastide@earthlink.net (456172)

1941 High Ridge Place

Amazing sunrise views from this 2BR Wintergreen condo. Views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Rockfish Valley from your wrap-around deck. The Living Room has a corner wood burning fireplace. Close to all resort amenities such as golf, tennis, skiing and restaurants. Call Kim Chappell, 434238-2430 or www.ExperienceWintergreen.com (456267)

250 Timbers

This updated Timbers condo offers quality furnishings and easy access to the Mountain Village. Only a few paces from skiing, shopping, dining, and swimming. Away from the hustle and bustle but still at the heart of the Village. Furnished with Founding WPI. Gated parking. Some winter mountain views. Great investment and great mountain retreat! Offered at $159,000. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 877-296-9860 (455380)

16 Trillium Place

Spacious 4 bed, 3.5 bath Trillium townhome w/ deck overlooking 1 acre Trillium nature preserve. Immediately across from Spa, the Trillium neighborhood is uniquely situated for walking convenience to the spa, Nature Foundation, and shuttle bus. Furnished. Rental program revenue stream in place. $349,950. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 434-296-9860 (456179)


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382 Deer Springs Lane

Great location right on the first fairway. Walk to Devil’s Knob Golf Course, Devil’s Grill, driving range and tennis. Live the active lifestyle directly on the golf course. Brand new home by CopperLeaf Homes/Solid Rock Properties with 2144 sq. ft . + 660 sq. ft . of sweeping decks. 4 beds, 3 full baths with open floor plan for great entertaining. Custom Hickory cabinetry, 3cm granite counters, stainless appliances, hardwood flooring and tankless water heater. One year home owners warranty included. WPI. Offered at $559,000. Call Christy and Rod Phillips at 434-987-6399. (459279)

17 Wintergreen Drive This 4-story luxury townhome is the jewel of the mountain with features like 4 bedrooms, private elevator, media room (or 5th bedroom) and five full and one half baths. Fabulous views and over 3,670 sq. ft. of living space make this a valuable investment. Visit the completed model. Contact Kim Chappell 434-238-2430 (428343)

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58 S. Forest Drive

At one of the highest elevations at Wintergreen, this renovated 6 bedroom mountain chalet could be a great family retreat or continue as a fantastic rental property. New floors, new granite counters, new kitchen cabinets,fresh paint and a paved drive are just a few of the recent upgrades.This was the second highest grossing rental property at the resort last year.Includes WPI right of membership.Hot tub on deck, enjoy the views too.Comes furnished, ready to go for Ski season at Wintergreen! Call Steve Marianella 434-566-1293 (459563)

1417 Highlands Just in time for ski season! The ONLY 1 bedroom Highlands Condominium on the market! Stunning Highlands Condo! Magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Mountain and slopes! Interior design furnishings! Your weekend getaway in the mountains! Walk to Aquatics & Fitness Center, Spa, golf, indoor/outdoor tennis courts & dining, Sold fully furnished, WPI, Priced to sell, An excellent investment! Currently on Wintergreen Resort rental program, Excellent rental income, Close with immediate cash flow! Offer price: $203,000, Contact Thomasina Shealey, REALTOR, mobile: 703.328.8680, email: bastide@earthlink.net. (459548)

12 Fairway Oaks Drive

1798 Monocan Drive

Stamped concrete drive leads to a 1 level brick home on a mature, private, 3 acre lot. Extraordinary quality reflected in all materials including doors, hardwoods, built-ins, kitchen, dual master baths (one ADA equipped). Separate & complete in-law suite (bedroom, living room, kitchen, laundry, patio). No better value for this combination of size, quality, and acreage. $597,500. Brian Chase 434-296-9860 www.goWintergreen.com (459966)

23 Kestrel Point

Live life to the fullest! Luxurious 4 bedroom/4 baths golf home on the 5th green and 6th tee box. Enjoy this magnificent setting from expansive 2-story deck and screened gazebo. New forced air heating systems-2 zones, Chef ’s kitchen w/granite, Brand new gas Jenn-Air stainless steel oven, wrought iron chandeliers, Architecturally stunning bedrooms! Hardwood floors, Elegant stone wood burning fireplace, Beautiful landscape/exterior lighting, Sold fully furnished, WPI,Offer price: $599,000, Contact Thomasina Shealey, REALTOR, mobile: 703.328.8680, email: bastide@earthlink.net (459585)

Escape to the Mountains! Amazing Wintergreen home with wonderful architectural details; Gourmet kitchen w/granite countertops, architect series appliances, breakfast bar, great room w/fireplace, Two Master suites, Library, A prime Fairway Oaks walkto-Devil’s Knob Golf Course location! Spacious driveway w/2-car garage, Perfect for large families and entertaining! A “GOLD” rated Wintergreen Homes & Villas Rental, An investment and family property, combined! Close with immediate cash

148 White Oak Drive Location, size and investment income makes this a great resort home. 6BR and 4.5BA and enough room to entertain a crowd. Sold furnished and ready to enjoy. $875,000 Listed by Kim Chappell and www.ExperienceWintergreen.com (459789)

flow! Sold fully furnished, WPI,Offer price: $495,000, Contact Thomasina Shealey, REALTOR, mobile: 703.328.8680, email: bastide@earthlink.net (459975)

ING LIV + 55

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702 Laurelwood

Tastefully furnished and well maintained 1 bed, 1 bath condo - turn-key ready for your enjoyment. Across from private pool and a short walk to Mountain Inn Village. Queen-size sleep sofa plus recently replaced stove, fridge, heat pump. Most furnishings convey. Walk off deck and into Mountain Laurel and mature forest. WPI. Offered at $149,000. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 434-296-9860 (456086)

59 Timber Ridge Lane Great Gold rated investment rental property at Wintergreen. Five bedrooms, two family rooms with fireplaces, two car garage, flat lot,few steps, sold furnished at $599,000 Call Steve Marianella at 434-566-1293 (460021)

182 Mountain Inn Condo Great investment rental in the premier rental property in Wintergreen’s Mountain Inn, at the heart of the resort. One bedroom loft with full bath and kitchen produced over $21,000 Gross rental revenue in 07. Priced to sell at $147,500.Call Steve Marianella for details at 434-566-1293.(456338)

NE

738 Pedlars Edge

Rare 5 bedroom ski front home on Wintergreen’s Tyro slope. Full WPI premier membership INCLUDED, ski this winter! Hardwood floors, lots of space and storage, 3 1/2 baths and your own private sauna room! Great value at $599,000 Call Steve Marianella 434-566-1293 (446948)

11 Bellflower Best available lot in Stoney Creek. Walk to Clubhouse. The beautiful flowing creek leads to the 16th green. Build your dream home with mountain and golf course views! Reduced! $119,000! Pam LeVine 941-724-4787 (437434)

W

65 Rosewood Drive RoseWood Village: The Madison Villa - 1 level living, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, gourmet granite kitchen, sunroom, hardwoods, superb craftsmanship, and many features of Universal Design. RoseWood Village is a 55+ living community - never worry again about exterior maintenance, yard work, gutter cleaning, etc. - it’s all handled for you by the RoseWood Village Association. Offered at $511,500. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 434-296-9860 (455683)

!

ICE

PR

319 Dobie 2BR,2BA completely renovated ski-out condo. Everything new, including heat and A/C. Stainless & granite kitchen, hardwood, slate and ceramic. $335,900 Kim Chappell 434-238-2430 www.ExperienceNelsonCounty.com (443341)

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2101 Fairway Woods

This golf-front condo was gutted down to the studs and rebuilt in 2007 w/ the finest materials including granite counters, cherry cabinetry, tile floors. Also new are the furnishings, appliances, and fixtures. Ground level - enjoy the golf-front setting from your patio. Sold furnished w/ WPI. Gold rated unit w/ rental program revenue stream in place. Offered at $239,000. Brian Chase www.goWintergreen.com 434-296-9860 (456576)

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 21


THE AREA’S NEWEST BREWERY IS OPEN

Serving lunch & dinner daily starting at 11:30am Children’s menu too! 3 large flatscreen tv’s, 2 cozy stone fireplaces, full bar Reservations will be accepted on February 14th P.S. DBBC is SMOKEFREE

EVENTS Keep ringing in 2009 ELI COOK

Saturday, Jan. 3rd 8pm-11pm

Warm your bellies & toes every Sunday GARY RANDAL 2pm-5pm Spread the lovin MARK GRAHAM JAZZ TRIO Saturday, Feb. 14th 7pm-10pm

FEATURED IN HOUSE BREWS Ale of Fergus Scottish Brown Ale Blackrock Oatmeal Stout Eight Point IPA Five Apostles Saison Ale Gold Leaf Lager Vienna Lager Wintergreen Weiss Growlers to go Gift cards T-shirts Hats Vintage work shirts

Drink and Eat Local 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland, VA 22967

located at intersection of Rt 151 & Rt 664 in Nelson County, 4 miles south of Nellysford 434.361.1001 • dbbrewingcompany.com 22 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

GOT BACKBONE?


athome withMarlo

The Right Move! Seller success in 2009

By Marlo Allen Marlo Allen is a licensed Realtor residing in Nelson County

“If you do what you have always done, you always get what you always got.” This is the time of year to reflect on where you have been and where you want to go in the New Year. Some goals like selling in a buyers market, may seem a bit daunting, because the road to success it not always black or white, or right or wrong. Even when there is no clear path, carefully evaluating and identifying the best options can yield a favorable outcome. If your goal is to sell a home in 2009, you may want to seriously consider these tips to ensure that you are making the right move! Select the right agent; All agents are NOT the same. That would be like saying all homes are the same because they all have roofs and floors. Agents may be subjected to the same market conditions, but how an agent chooses to respond to the environment to generate results, can and does vary greatly. This is not the sales market to hire a part-time, cost con-

strained, corner cutting, “that’s the way I have always done it” agent. Align with an enabler; a metric driven, customer centric agent with the market knowledge, education, professionalism, ethics, dependability and drive that it takes to sell your home. Any agent can list your home, but can that agent get it sold? Set the right price; When the market is slow, there are very few buyers and limited opportunities to make a sale. Hence, it is imperative that you set a market driven asking price. Overcome the temptation to set a seller-driven asking price, the price you paid for it, plus the cost of repairs, commissions, and other markups. In addition, don’t be lured into listing with the agent suggesting the highest list price. An “asking price” does not automatically equate to a “selling price”. The list price of your home should only be based on meaningful facts and figures as derived from current market statistics. A list price should be supported by a CMA, comparative market analysis. Comparing your home

New Year’s Resolution #1

Don’t let another real estate opportunity pass you by … call Marlo! Marlo G. Allen

434.996.3525 Email: Marlo@InsistOnThatGirl.com Web: InsistOnThatGirl.com Market Data: HomeValueMarketReport.com

Insist on that girl!

with active and recently sold properties will define the current competition and identify what buyers have actually been willing to pay for similar properties. Create the right conditions; Properly showcasing your home may enable it to spring ahead of the competition. With so many choices, buyers can afford to be picky and may not be willing to accept a less than perfect product. Before you put the house on the market, make those much needed repairs and renovations. Change the outdated light fixture, replace the stained carpet, and fix that dripping sink. And yes… thoroughly clean and stage it! Have the right attitude; Work toward a win-win situation. When an offer is rejected there are no winners, so don’t be easily insulted and dig your feet in the sand. Even though you have a bottom line, don’t absolutely refuse to budge. The cost of holding out could have greater financial and emotional consequences.

Keep the right frame of mind; Expect and deal with the unexpected. Getting contracts to closing is much more difficult than it used to be, especially if the purchaser is a borrower. In particular, government loan programs may produce last minute delays during final investor review. Don’t be alarmed if the underwriter requires an updated appraisal or some other condition to be satisfied just prior to closing. While deviations from the set plan are upsetting, it is the reality of the current lending market. Unless you are dealing with a cash buyer, these last minute setbacks may be unavoidable. Good luck selling! Stay tuned to an upcoming issue with buying tips for success in 2009.

Marlo Allen, frequently referred to as “That Girl,” calls Nelson County home. In fact, she grew up in Nelson and besides being a Realtor, is a family business partner at Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery in Nellysford. Marlo provides real estate services in Nelson and surrounding counties.

Get more for less!

One of the least expensive homes in Stoney Creek; great first or second home perched on a hill and privately situated on one of the largest resort lots, boasting woods, creek, and mountain views. Exceptional detail inside and outside as evidenced by the extensive rock work in the stone bridge, walkways, and retaining walls. Inside the rock theme continues with a two-story, rock fireplace. Enjoy many other upgrades such as the cathedral ceiling with wood beams and trim, multiple built-in bookshelves and cabinets, hardwood floors, ceramic tile flooring and decorative countertops, jetted tub, security system, garage, and new HVAC system. So many amenities… entertain on the private back deck, relax in the hidden hot tub, or warm to a fire in the fire pit. Just a few minute stroll from Lake Monocan and other resort activities such as golf, tennis, and horseback riding.

123 Wood House Lane 2.89 acres; 1,922 sq ft 3 Bedroom & 2.5 Bath; MLS 459892; $414,900

Get real-time market data for Wintergreen, Nelson, & Charlottesville Area at HomeValueMarketReport.com

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 23


almosthome Dennis & Sissy

Dennis and Sissy are young, grey and white Domestic Short Hair cats. This pair would be fabulous for families. Both are calm and love to snuggle. You’ll fall for these youngsters if you give them a chance.

Patches

Patches is young, male Hound mix. He is tall and athletic, happy to play and eager to please. Patches is learning basic obedience at Almost Home Pet Adoption Center. Come see how well he’ll fit into your family!

The Almost Home Pet Adoption Center is a no-kill facility owned and operated by the Humane Society/SPCA of Nelson County. For more information, call 434-263-SPCA (7722) or, visit us as 29 Stagebridge Road, 3 miles north of Lovingston, Virginia.

specializing in: bathroom & kitchen remodel additions

Doolittle’s Country Kennel It’s like camp for your dog!

tile, stone & hardwoods

434-361-1880

MW TILE

class a, licensed & insured

Minutes to Wintergreen, near Nellysford www.msdoolittle.com Ozzie & Winnie

Marshall White 434-996-7402

Your gazebo wedding in Nelson County!

Time is money. We’ll help you save both.

Frankee Love with Blue Ridge Weddings now offers special packages for small weddings in the gazebo. Ceremony and 100 photos for as low as $495.

Happy New Year! For tax planning tips go to www.mariamcmullencpa.com Bring this ad for $50 discount!

Blue Ridge Weddings 434-263-5350

Options for flowers, video, cake and champagne toast.

www.BlueRidgeWeddings.com

24 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

Michelle A. Taylor Taylor Made Business Service, LLC “The House call Bookkeeper” p: 434-361-2208 f: 434-361-2131 TaylorMadeSvc@aol.com

Maria C. McMullen Certified Public Accountant “The House call CPA” p: 434-361-2330 f: 434-361-1974 mariacpa@verizon.net


snapshots

ADVERTORIAL

a second for an opinion

FORGING A HOME

By Drs. Brian and Jennifer Prax Chiropractors

GERALD BOGGS

A letter to President-Elect Obama on American Health Care

When Afton blacksmith Gerald Boggs tried free ranging chickens at his property, he got more than he bargained for. He writes: “... while I was gone this summer, my chickens suffered a possum. By the time I could get back and trap him, these two were all that was left. I didn’t have the heart to make them go back into the coop (place of terror) and let them free range. As the weather grew cold, they decided the forge was the place for them. So I put up the branch and every night, this is where they roost.� Only in Nelson County.

Dear Mr. Obama, Do you know what the real crisis is with health care? It’s not that not enough of us can afford health care and it’s not that pharmaceuticals are too expensive. It’s the reactionary type of our so called “Health Care� that our country is in. We live in a fantasy world where there’s a potion for every emotion, a pill for every ill and a drug for every thug. We Americans must get off the drug roller coaster. How can it make any sense to anyone that taking more and more drugs will make one healthier? We need a real health care system - not a disease treatment system that focuses on and rewards positive life style choices. Exercise, Tai Chi, massage, Chiropractic, good nutritional choices to name just a few. Let’s not come up with more and more creative ways to throw more money down that same ole’ failing rat hole - medicine. Medical care and its drugs and surgeries belong

in the ER; that’s true but we must stop the “Better Living through Better Chemistry� philosophy. It didn’t work. We must move on! WE MUST CHANGE! Help us Mr. Obama! How about offering incentives or tax deductions for weight loss programs, smoking cessation programs, gym memberships, wellness visits to the Chiropractor, Acupuncturist and massage therapist? What about finding ways to reward good, healthy lifestyle choices instead of finding more and more ways to just pay for the treatment of disease? “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure� as they say. Yours in health and wellness, Dr. Brian Prax, chiropractor Drs. Brian and Jennifer Prax, chiropractors, provide unusually effective, gentle and logical care. Email your questions or comments to info@chiroprax.com. For more information go to www. chiroprax.com or 434-977-LIFE (5433)

$O YOU KNOW ANYONE WHO IS SKIPPING BASIC HEALTH CARE DUE TO LOW INCOME OR LACK OF INSURANCE "LUE 2IDGE -EDICAL #ENTER HAS A NUMBER OF PLANS DESIGNED TO HELP PEOPLE IN NEED ACCESS THE HEALTH CARE THEY DESERVE #ALL US FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THESE VITAL HEALTH CARE OUTREACH PROGRAMS

PUBLICITY

"LUE 2IDGE -EDICAL #ENTER 4HOMAS .ELSON (WY !RRINGTON 6!

Nelson County Junior and Cadette Girl Scout Troop 249 earned a highly-coveted Gold Award by creating a tourism packet called Welcome to Nelson County. The packets, available at the Visitors’ Center in Lovingston, sells for $3.00 and includes a patch embroidered with the new Nelson County logo.

New Computer this Holiday Season? How about Lessons to go with it? Learn exactly what you want. One-on-one sessions with your computer. No confusing tech-speak. Step-by-step instructions—immediate results. Relax and progress at your own pace.

BlueWebWeaver

434•361•1224

BlueWebWeaver@earthlink.net • www.BlueWebWeaver.com

7E RE HERE TO HELP

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JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 25


back from mumbai STORY & PHOTO by YVETTE STAFFORD

Trapped in the Oberoi Hotel for 48 hours, the leader of Synchronicity Foundation says he found calm in the chaos.

“I trusted and I watched.”

26 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009


naomi’s garden

SYNCHRONICITY FOUUNDATION

Alan and Naomi Scherr were killed in November’s terrorist attacks in Mumbai (above). They were on a pilgrimage led by Synchronicity Foundation leader Master Charles Cannon, shown below at a press conference with Kia Scherr, Alan’s wife and Naomi’s mother.

TOMMY STAFFORD

The paved driveway, steep and windy, ends at the top of a small mountain in Faber. Soft, meditative music is piping through outdoor speakers. Escorted by assistant Caroline Avant, I arrive at the home of her guru. Followers call him Master Charles. Inside, two men – one about 40, the other several years younger – greet us. We take off our shoes and leave them facing what appears to be a set of elevator doors. To the right, is a spiral staircase. Caroline leads the way. The top of the stairs opens up to a large room decorated for the holidays. Amongst an arrangement of Eastern and Western religious icons, there is a Christmas tree. You can’t help but notice the tree as well as the two rows of chairs that, with a larger, more ornate chair in the center, form a “U.” This is where the interview takes place. Just weeks before, Charles Cannon was leading a group on a spiritual pilgrimage to India. Cannon said because members of the group “were mostly Westerners from the United States, Canada, Australia and such places, we felt it was appropriate to stay in a Western hotel so they would have the amenities they were used to.” Amenities like a café. Alan Scherr and his daughter, Naomi, were among a group of Synchronicity members who were eating at the Oberoi hotel in Mumbai when suspected Muslim terrorists gunned them down. Cannon was in his room as the hotel came under attack. “Your whole being is pumping adrenaline,” Cannon recalls. “Your heart is racing and you are hyper alert, trying to gather information about your reality that is now out of control So initially your first instinct is survival. You’re hearing explosions and gunfire and bombs going off and fire and the room filling full of smoke and having to cover your mouths and noses with wet washcloths, you’re having to break windows to get air to breathe. So, it is survival.” Cannon says he, along with two others, were holed up in their room for two days. But they didn’t panic. Cannon, a Vedic monk, says it was an apparition of

a Virgin Mary-like being – one that he’s had since his youth – that guided him through the attacks. “Her face would appear and she’d say the same thing and those words were: ‘Trust’ and ‘Watch.’ And so that became my focus.” Though trapped in a hotel, Cannon was able to receive electronic communication from those outside the building. “As soon as we started getting information from the outside and knew what was happening, then we started noticing just this kind of energy, for want of another word, of just love and nurturance and support.” Weary from the ordeal, Cannon says by the second morning, his room was flooded with light. “Everything kind of had a glow to it. Just a permeating light and love and peace like the room had become a bubble and you were safe within it.” Once the siege ended, Cannon was led out of the hotel and had the grim task of identifying the bodies of Alan and Naomi, still in the café. “These were two people who were very dear to me,” he said. “The child was like my own child. I participated in her upbringing from her earliest years and so I grieve for her loss.” Even so, Cannon says he has communicated with Alan and Naomi since their passing. “I have seen him many times since his transition in my meditations and in my dreams ... All that he communicates is that he’s in the good place and that we’re still here.” Cannon describes his communication with Naomi as being “very celebratory and very playful. Being in just a beautiful place and everything it totally wonderful there and she is free ...” As the sky begins to darken, we wrap up the interview and head to the patio for a few photographs. Standing next to a statue of the Virgin Mary, the abundance of natural light surrounding Cannon is quickly fading and the pictures I shoot become blurred. With my boots back on, I walk with Caroline down the spiral staircase and leave. NCL

PHOTOS COURTESY: DAVID FERRALL

A student at North Branch School during the third and fourth grades, Naomi Scherr is missed by those who knew her. Students at the Afton school planted a rose and daffodil garden in her honor. Naomi’s mother, Kia, taught nursery while Naomi was enrolled at North Branch.

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 27


WI NTERG R EEN R ESORT

Bo Newell, President, Realtor for 35 years, 27 years in sales at Wintergreen, Founding WPI member since 1984, Premier Equity Member

20 Knob Hill Place Views! 7 BR, 7BA, 2 half BA. $2,500,000 WPI

134 Gum Tree Drive 4BR/2BA, furn. Views. $389,000 WPI

218 White Oak Walk to slopes! 3 BR, 2 BA. $289,900 WPI

1240 Devils Knob Loop 6BR/4BA, great views! $795,000 WPI

664 Shamokin Springs 3BR/2BA. Furn. $499,000 WPI

45 Marble Lane 4BR/2BA with upgrades. Furn. $384,500

205 Blackrock Circle 3BR/3BA, winter views, furn. $479,000 WPI

109 Wolf Trap 5BR/4BA, furn. and fantastic $1,499,000 WPI

119 E. Catoctin Drive 4 BR, 3BA. Gorgeous mountain views. Golf frontage. $485,000 WPI

168 Brimstone Drive Incredible views! 3BR/3BA, 2 half BA. Stone fireplace. $1,500,000 WPI

Trillium Place 20 2BR/2BA Close to Wintergarden Spa. 1379 sq. ft. $229,900 WPI

952 Blue Ridge Drive 5 BR/4 BA. Close to golf and pool. Many upgrades! $569,000 WPI

26 South Knob Lane Stunning home. Fabulous views. 3 BR/3.5 BA, Furn. $1,295,000 WPI

233 Blackrock Circle Charming 3BR/2.5BA home. Great location! $299,000 WPI

20 Pedlars End 4 BR/3BA Lots of upgrades. Great rental investment! $614,000

Nancy Hernandez, 20 years in sales at Wintergreen, Founding WPI member since 1984, Premier Equity Member

Ben Hernandez, 9 years in sales at Wintergreen; grew up in Nelson County

Julie Bendle, Marketing Director, 9 years in sales at Wintergreen and long-time resident of Nelson County

Pam McKeithen, 27 years in sales at Wintergreen, Founding member of WPI since 1984, Premier Equity Member

John McKeithen, Realtor for 20 years, 7 years sales at Wintergreen, Premier Equity Member since 1996

Chastity Morgan, 10 years in sales at Wintergreen, native of Nelson County

Lois Armel, Realtor since 1974. 5 years in sales at Wintergreen, lives in Wintergreen, WPI member since 1985, Premier Equity Member

28 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

Call us or visit our website to see our extensive condo and lot offerings as well as Stoney Creek and County listings!


OFFER I NGS

The Right People with the Right Stuff Tom Kubiak, 4 years in sales at Wintergreen, WPI member since 1992, Premier Equity Member, makes his home at Wintergreen

93 Squirrel Tree 3BR/2BA, furnished. $299,000 WPI

293 White Oak Drive 3BR/3/BA. Furn. $669,000 WPI

147 Gumtree Drive 12BR/8BA, great location. $649,000 WPI Charlie Wineberg, Former owner/operator Black Rock Market; Nelson County Realtor since 1994; First Wintergreen sale 1999

122 Oak Lane 3BR/2BA. Furn. $499,000 WPI

153 Gumtree Drive 3BR/2BA. Renovated! $349,000

Westwood 19 4BR/3.5BA, furnished $379,900 WPI

Sharon Stacey, 7 years in sales at Wintergreen, long-time resident of Nelson County

Hunter Price, Realtor since 1981. 5 years in sales at Wintergreen, makes her home in Nelson County

Shenandoah Ridge 2 Gorgeous three-level townhome. 4 BR/4.5 BA. Views. $569,000 WPI

Shenandoah Ridge 12 3BR/3.5BA. $539,000 WPI M O U N TA I N C O N D O S

Shenandoah Ridge 4 3BR/3.5BA. Spectacular views! Close to spa. Furn. $499,500 WPI

Diamond Hill 914 2 BR, Ski front. $324,500 WPI Diamond Hill 943 2 BR. Ski front. $349,500 WPI Diamond Hill 952 2 BR, Ski front. $299,000 WPI Diamond Hill 954 3 BR, Ski front. $499,000 WPI Diamond Hill 955 4 BR, Ski front. $530,000 WPI Dobie 346 2 BR, Ski front. $329,000 WPI Eagles Court 119 2 BR, Ski front. $269,000 Eagles Court 126 2 BR, ski front. $269,900 WPI Fairway Woods 2131 2 BR, golf. $245,000 WPI High Ridge 1705 2 BR, views. $443,500 WPI High Ridge 1711 2 BR, views. $349,000 WPI High Ridge 1724 4 BR, views. $575,000 WPI High Ridge Court 1805 2 BR, views. $349,000 WPI High Ridge Place 1952 4 BR, views. $535,000 WPI

Shenandoah Ridge 14 360-degree views! 3 BR and 3.5 BA. Gourmet kitchen. $479,000 WPI Highlands 1410 3 BR, views. $347,000 WPI Laurelwood 713 2 Br, pool. $239,000 WPI Ledges 1459 2 BR, views. $295,000 WPI North Ridge 3210 3 BR, views. $269,000 WPI North Ridge 3232 2 BR, near golf. $253,500 WPI Overlook 1610 2BR, views. $365,800 WPI Tanners Ridge 2248 2 BR, Furn. $189,900 WPI Three Ridges 460 1 BR, walk to ski. $140,000 WPI Three Ridges 487 2 BR, walk to ski. $219,000 WPI Timbers 220 1 BR, Ski front. $169,500 WPI Timbers 224 1 BR, Ski front. $124,900 WPI Timbers 230 2BR. Furnished, ski front. $169,900 WPI Vistas 1558 3 BR, Views. $495,000 WPI Vistas 1560 2 BR, Views! $335,000 WPI White Oak 647 2 BR, walk to ski. $229,000 WPI

Lea Cole bilingual. 3 years in sales at Wintergreen, makes her home in Nelson County

Kathy Chisholm, MAR’s newest agent with 10 years’ experience in real estate. Makes her home in Crozet.

Nellysford, VA (800) 361-5155 (434) 361-2440

Visit our website at www.MountainAreaRealty.com JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 29


glowing reviews STORY by JENNIE TAL

In 2004, Heath Matysek-Snyder got a Masters in Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Four years and at least 20,000 miles later, we find the Afton native in Tasmania. After graduation he lived in San Diego for just two years before taking a one-year appointment as the sabbatical replacement professor for Tom Loeser, the head of Furniture Design and Woodworking program at his alma matter teaching both beginning and advanced furniture design and woodworking. He loved his year of teaching – and running the department – but when Tom came back, he was out of a job. Turns out, it was for the better. “Now I’m living in a different country, which I had been contemplating for some time,” said Heath. Currently, Heath lives in Tasmania, home of the Tasmanian devil, an amazingly diverse landscape, interesting and adventurous customs and, perhaps most importantly (to him anyway), the Huon Pine, which Heath says is the de facto state wood of the small island off the coast of Australia. “Huon pine is traditionally a boat building material and has kind of become the official Tasmanian wood,” he explained. “It has a lot of natural oil in it that makes it almost completely rot proof, entirely water proof and very, very, very bug resistant.” In an email he wrote, describing the wood, he went

PHOTOS COURTESY: HEATH MATYSEK-SNYDER

on for six more lines. Trust the furniture maker, it’s that good. Basically, Tasmania is an island, so Huon works very well as a material for wooden boats. And Heath’s wanted his first project as a Designer in Residence for Designed Objects Tasmania (DOT) to represent the history of the state. (Analogy of the day: Tasmania is to Australia as Virginia is to the United States.) He entered his piece, a coffee table and/or bench called “Alveus,” in a big exhibition called “Tasmanian Wood Design Collection Biennial Acquisitive Exhibition” with a fancy opening shindig. “Alveus”… references the nautical history of Tasmania,” Heath explained. “It is construction from Huon Pine and Blackwood with luminescent paints on the edges. When you turn the lights off, the piece is depicted through a line drawing of visual pathways.” But don’t expect to sail away in the boat/table/ bench. “My piece would float, but only by wooden construction default!” he said. “It certainly would be… how do I put this ... Let’s say less-than-stellar as a life boat in the chilly waters of the Tasmanian Coast! “The spaces between the slats are not great for keeping water out, but it would glow in the dark!” And that’s what really important, right? Well, that and the Huon. NCL

Alvieus, a fine art coffee table, is crafted from Huon pine, a popular wood from Tasmania. The table’s builder, Aftonnative Heath Matysek-Snyder, is currently a Designer in Residence on the Australian island. 30 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009


snapshots

PHOTO by TOMMY STAFFORD

6ccdjcX^c\ G^Y\ZanÉh ;jc EVg` Young children will enjoy playing in the snow this winter at Ridgely’s Fun Park. Mini-carousel, tunnels, a tee-pee and a gentle hill for tubing. Open weekends and holidays. Visit our website for more details.

The cure for chilly winter days seems to be Brunswick Stew! amFOG in Afton served up ladle after ladle of the tasty treat as visitors warmed up to live old time music inside the market.

.com

Whether you’ve had a baby and bought a new car, or now have a teenager on the road, your insurance should keep up with your life. Call today for a free review to help you decide what protection is right for you.

John K. Warren (757) 496-0585 Warren Insurance Agency johnwarren@allstate.com Proudly serving Nelson County

SEASON PASSES AVAILABLE FROM $229 AT WINTERGREENRESORT.COM

Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2007 Allstate Insurance Company.

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 31


sam’sgarden By Sam Saunders Saunders Landscapes, LLC Winter Interest If ‘Old Man Winter’ has served you up a good case of the blahs, don’t feel left out – most gardeners in the Mid Atlantic consider November through February to be, well, boring. It does not have to be so. A good balance of winter interest plants mixed in with your spring, summer and fall pallet is sure to offer you some form of restitution this time of year. Although the list can be quite extensive, I offer my favorites that have given me hope during the longest of those winter days. Winterberry offers a multitude of deep, bright red, dime sized berries. The best variety is one known as ‘Sprite’. Plant them in groups for maximum effect and always locate them a few meters from a ‘hidden’ male. Sprite grows to about 4 feet tall by 4 feet wide and makes its best impact against a deeper shade of green (i.e. a boxwood hedge) or against a light colored building. There are not many older, historic homes in the Commonwealth that do not have a large American Holly. The reason is simple – the American Holly offers a very picturesque and quite graceful silhouette against just about any backdrop, wood, brick or sky. It grows 20-30 feet in height with about a 15-20 foot spread in many years of growth.

The reward is bright red berry production that will have every wreath maker wetting their chops in an opportunity to offer some ‘pruning advice’. The mention of planting bamboo in a landscape has raised many an eyebrow with my clients. Few landscape plants offer the conical cluster of berry production like the Heavenly Bamboo. Plant it in 6 hours of sun for the maximum berry production and place this evergreen at an entrance or on the corner of a deck/ structure for a nice display. In regards to control, prune back run-away shoots and thin dominant ones in late February. No winter garden would be complete without the Lenten Rose or Hellebore. The increased breeding in Helleborus has brought about a slew of new varieties ranging from yellow, pink, blue and even white veined varieties. Plant them with little fear that those 4 legged mongrels will even come close. The bloom time, starting in January, will last for 3 months at the very least. One of my favorites is Pink Spotted Lady. Around my landscape, few plants offer as much diversity in regards to floral arrangements as Aucuba ‘Variegata’. In reality, I hate variegation – I find it unnatural and always makes me want to grab the Miracle Grow and pray for a ... well you get the point. This is not the case with ‘Variegata’. It appears as

someone was cleaning their canary yellow paint from their paintbrush and each flick ended up on the Aucuba’s leaf. Whether mixed with reds in winter for Christmas decorations or with Limelight Hydrangea for summer, it adds an interesting touch. Plant in a semi-protected, shady spot with well drained, compost enriched soil. A tree that rarely shows its head in this area is the Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum). The bark is to die for, the foliage absolutely divine, the cost criminal. With their exfoliating, cinnamon colored bark, typical maple leaf and slow rate of

growth, this tree would be a welcome addition to any courtyard where guests can enjoy its multi-season interest. Save up for an 8-10 foot specimen and plant it in rich, well drained soil with afternoon shade. No doubt if you can keep the borers at bay, Jacquemontii is the best of the best when it comes to white birch. Bright white exfoliating bark will light up your landscape all winter long. I plant Jacquemontii on the east side of the landscape so as to give it a break from the summer’s hot afternoon sun. Until our next article, keep warm!

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32 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

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asktheDr. By Dr. Charles Cole Afton Family Medicine

Dear Doctor Cole, I think people are on too many medications. I am concerned that they cause more problems than they solve. I agree – sometimes. There is sometimes a tendency for people to want to treat problems with drugs. And if one will help, then two must be better – this seems to be the American mindset. As a result some people take too many medications. These may be prescription medications, but may also be over the counter medications, vitamins or supplements. This is known as polypharmacy and is especially prevalent in people over 65 years old. Medications are taken for many reasons. Many can be used as needed. Others for short term use and after treatment the medication should be stopped. Other conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and congestive heart failure, are treated with medications that are taken every day. Sometimes, however, people are too quick to turn to medications and ignore lifestyle factors, such as healthy food choices and exercise that can prevent the need for medications. Blood pressure and diabetes, for example, often respond to these measures. Even if medications

Dr. Charles Cole is a licensed medical doctor based in Afton. Have a question for him? Email him at AskTheDr@nelsoncountylife.com. Sorry, due to the high volume of messages received, personal replies may not be possible. The Editor reserves the right to edit questions for content, accuracy, and length. This column is provided as a service to readers of Nelson County Life Magazine and is not intended to replace the advice of a physician. If you have a question about your personal health, please consult your doctor.

theperfectfit By Agnes F. Schrider, PT Nelson Physical Therapy

Your Health Journey Happy New Year! This is the time we might reflect on the year ending and also look forward to the one beginning. It is a time of transition not only on the calendar but in our minds. In general, we all hope to better in the next year. Thinking of the recession alone is enough to bring our thoughts about the future spiraling downward especially if you have watched your retirement savings sink lower and lower. There is another type of investment to consider for the future. Your health. Your investment in your health will not only save you money because you won’t have to go the doctor as much, but you will feel better and improve conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, fibromyalgia and obesity. Health care costs continue to rise annually and more of the costs are being passed onto you. Consider this exercise: as you are preparing your paper work for taxes, add up all of your health care bills, co-pays and medicines. Then compare that with a cost of a pair of good walking shoes. If you know you need help with exercise or have a complicated medical history, compare the

Another reason why people trust Afton Family Medicine.

are still needed, these lifestyle changes can reduce the amount of medicine that is required. Taking multiple medications can lead to undesirable and potentially dangerous side effects or interactions. For this reason, it is important that your doctor know of all prescription and over-thecounter medications that you take. Sometimes we think that substances that are ‘all natural’ or organic are safe but these substances may cause side effects or interact with other medications. Even certain vitamins can be unsafe if taken at too high a dose. You can reduce polypharmacy and dangerous medication related problems by taking an active role in your health care. Don’t stop taking your medications without checking with your doctor, but ask how you can minimize what you need to take.

cost to an exercise membership because you will need more instruction when starting your program. If you don’t have a complicated medical history, start a walking program 5 days a week. Start with ten minutes, and increase your time by 10% each week up to 3540 minutes. The important thing in the beginning is to “show up” and make it a habit. New Year’s resolutions are common at this time of year. Thinking about last year, I had three things I wanted to improve. Mid way through the year, I wasn’t doing well on my goals so I thought I should focus on one goal. I wasn’t feeling successful in my personal growth. Thus, I became a bit negative about myself. We tend to be our own harshest critics and those negative thoughts impede us from taking action. I have read health articles that mentioned the health care industry should “give up” on the rural areas of our country because the folks are too set in their eating and lifestyle habits to care about changing. I disagree with that. I have personally met several Nelson born residents who have made incredible steps in their health journeys- on their own! I think most people

Dr. Charles Cole

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30-5pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (540)-456-6710 7849 Rockfish Valley Hwy (SR 151), Afton, VA • www.marthajefferson.org

NELSON PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS CENTER

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434.361.2650

would like to be healthy. Our role as health care providers is to find a way for you to be successful. So, this year, choose ONE thing to focus on in your health plan. It may be starting a walking program, taking one exercise class a week, cutting your meal portions, cutting sodas or reducing sweets. Keep track daily of how you do on a calen-

dar. Keep a positive attitude knowing that every small step you do to improve your health will have a positive outcome, regardless of how insignificant it seems to you. Don’t beat yourself up if you get off track- just get back in the saddle again. And, reward yourself with nonfood items. It all starts with the first step!

Agnes F. Schrider, PT is a licensed physical therapist, fitness trainer, and certified golf fitness trainer based in Nellysford. Have a question for her? Email her at ThePerfectFit@nelsoncountylife.com. Sorry, due to the high volume of messages received, personal replies may not be possible. The Editor reserves the right to edit questions for content, accuracy, and length. This column is provided as a service to readers of Nelson County Life Magazine and is not intended to replace the advice of a licensed professional. If you have a question about your personal health, please consult a health professional.

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 33


Nelson County HAMNER THEATER

www.thehamnertheater.com • 434.361.1999

Saturday, January 17

In the Cabaret - Hamner Improv Troupe

Also Coming to the Cabaret: Saturday, February 28 Dr Levine & the Dreaded Blues Lady

Saturday, March 21 Good Foot Dance Company with Cleek Schrey & Graham Dezarn

Saturday, April 11 Danny Schmidt

Call 434-361-1999 for reservations & info

The Hamner Theater @ The Rockfish Valley Community Center 190 Rockfish School Lane, Afton, Virginia • www.thehamnertheater.com The Hamner Theater is a non-profit 501(c)(3) project of the Rockfish Valley Community Center in Nelson County.

ROCKFISH VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTER

PANCAKE

BREAKFAST

SATURdAY, jANUARY 3

from 8:30 - 10:30 AM

Everyone welcome ! ! $7.50 Adults / $5.50 Children ... RVCC Members get a $1.50 discount! RVCC is on Rockfish School Lane, West off Rt. 151, between Nellysford & Afton ~ 434.361.0100

leisureguide

food&dining Ambrosia Bakery & Deli Decadent cheesecake and other desserts, as well as tasty sandwiches. 19 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA . 61.9661 Basic Necessities Serving up a taste of the South of France for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great wine selection. 6 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA . 61.1766

Thai Mex II Wonderful Thai and Mexican cuisine to keep dining interesting and fun. Sophisticated but not stuffy. Open 8:30am to 10:30pm 7 days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Valley Green Shopping Center, Nellysford, VA . 61.1 00

Blue Ridge Pig Strawberry’s famous hickory-smoked BBQ. 198 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA . 61.1170

Thai Siam Take-Out Authentic Thai food, antique shop next door. 1 7 Tye Brook Highway (Rt. 56), Colleen, VA . 6 .8577

Chen’s Chinese take-out. 7 Calohill Dr., Lovingston, VA . 6 .8865

Vito’s Italian Restaurant Specializing in pizza and Italian dishes. 8181 Thomas Nelson Hwy, Lovingston, VA . 6 .8688

Chirios Pizza Pizza and subs. Take out or delivered. Valley Shopping Center 777 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA . 61.9188

shuteye

Copper Mine An All American Prime Beef Steakhouse with casual but elegant dining. Featuring fresh seafood and organic poultry as well. Dinner reservations are required. Wintergreen Resort . 5.8090 D’Ambola’s The place to go for a great Italian meal. 9 78 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Afton, VA 5 0. 56. 556 Devils Grill The highest restaurant in Virginia with spectacular views of our Devils Knob golf course Dine on our patio for lunch or dinner. Distinctive American cuisine with a Southern flare. Dinner reservations are required. Wintergreen Resort . 5.8100 The Dogwood Steaks, seafood and country cuisine. Lunch, breakfast and dinner. 61 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford, VA . 61.1700 The Edge Casual dining with a view of the slopes. Seasonal live entertainment. Wintergreen Resort . 5.8080 The Fountain Room at The Mark Addy Inn Offering the finest in international cuisine in an elegant setting. 56 Rodes Farm Dr., Nellysford, VA . 61.1101 Lovingston Cafe Lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Breakfast Friday through Monday. 165 Front Street, Lovingston, VA . 6 .8000 Rapunzel’s Coffee and Books Full espresso bar and used bookstore, live music every Friday and Saturday. 9 Front Street (in the Packing Shed), Lovingston, VA . 6 .6660 Sparrow’s Café Village at Glen Mary (Rt. 66 ) . 61.005

NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 009

Stoney Creek Bar & Grill Located in the valley at the Stoney Creek Golf course. Serving casual lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner. Seasonal live entertainment on our deck. Reservations please for brunch and dinner. Wintergreen Resort . 5.8110

Acorn Inn Bed & Breakfast 56 Adial Rd, Faber, VA . 61.9 57 Afton House Bed & Breakfast and Cottages 1 Afton Lane, Route 6 East, Afton, VA 5 0. 56.6759 Afton Mountain Bed & Breakfast 10 7 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Afton, VA 5 0. 56.68 Camp Blue Ridge Montebello, VA 5 0. 77. 1 Cox’s Creek Cottage 96 C & C Lane, Roseland, VA . 77.5566 Dutch Haus Bed & Breakfast 655 Fork Mountain Lane, Montebello, VA 5 0. 77. 119 Fallen Oak Bed & Breakfast 5 Mimosa Lane, Faber, VA . 61.1011 Harmony Hill Bed & Breakfast 9 9 Wilson Hill Rd (Route 665), Arrington, VA 877. 6 .7750 Horseshoe Mountain Lodge Roseland, VA . 61. 5 5 The Mark Addy 56 Rodes Farm Drive, Nellysford, VA . 61.1101 The Meander Inn 100 Berry Hill Road, Nellysford, VA . 61.11 1 The Meeting Place 8 5 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Wintergreen, VA . 61. 80 Montebello Camping & Fishing Resort 1507 Crabtree Falls Hwy, Montebello, VA 5 0. 77. 650 North Fork Cottages 697 North Fork Road, Tyro, VA 5 0. 77. 007


Nelson County

Open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm 434.263.6100 • 500 DelFosse Winery Lane Faber, VA • GPS: N37˚ 53.367 W078˚45.710 Order our wine online: www.delfossewine.com

leisureguide

The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast 9749 Thomas Nelson Hwy (Rt. 29), Lovingston, VA 434.263.7747 Walton’s Mountain B&B 6401 Rockfish River Rd, Schuyler, VA 434.831.1384 Resort Reservations & Country Cottages Rural getaways, Wintergreen condos and homes available. Afton, VA 540.456.8300 Royal Oaks Cabins in the Mountains 45 Royal Oaks Lane, Love, VA 800.410.0627 Sarah’s Mountain Retreat Cabin 406 Fish Hatchery Lane, Montebello, VA 540.377.6458 Shadow Mountain Rentals 15644 Crabtree Falls Hwy, Montebello, VA 757.424.2884 Simpson’s Hollow Bed & Breakfast 580 Simpsons Lane, Lovingston, VA 434.263.6380 The White Pig Bed & Breakfast 5120 Irish Road, Schuyler, VA 434.831.1416 Tye River Cabin 6011 Crabtree Falls Highway, Tyro, VA 434.238.2430 Wintergreen Resort Studios, condos and homes available. Wintergreen, VA 800.266.2444

wine&beercountry Afton Mountain Vineyards 234 Vineyard Lane, Afton, VA 540.456.8667 Blue Mountain Brewery 9519 Critzers Shop Rd. (Rt. 151), Afton, VA 540.456.8020 Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery 9423 Batesville Rd, Afton, VA 540.456.8400 DelFosse Vineyards & Winery 500 DelFosse Winery Lane, Faber, VA 434.263.6100 Devils Backbone Brewing Company 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland, VA 434.361.1001 Flying Fox Vineyard 27 Chapel Hollow Rd, Afton, VA 434.361.1692 Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery 2800 Berry Hill Road, Nellysford, VA 434.361.1266 Lovingston Winery 885 Freshwater Cove Lane, Lovingston, VA 434.263.8467 Mountain Cove Vineyards 1362 Fortunes Cove Lane, Lovingston, VA 434.263.5392 Veritas Vineyards & Winery 145 Saddleback Farm, Afton, VA 540.456.8000

Wintergreen Vineyard & Winery 426 Winery Lane, Nellysford, VA 434.361.2519

gifts&antiques Afton House Antiques 31 Afton House Lane, Afton, VA 540.942.2993 a.m. FOG 9264 Critzer Shop Road, Afton, VA 540.456.7100

Thursday, January 1 at 12:30pm – New Year Day 2009 Brunch Come celebrate the New Year with an elegantly prepared Champagne Brunch prepared by Chef Genevieve.The menu includes 4 elegantly prepared dishes, paired with 4 generous samplings of our award winning wines, accompanied by Champagne. • Menu by Genevieve DelFosse. • Wine from DelFosse Winery • Complimentary Wine Glass • A 10% discount on wines purchased at that event. • Reservations are Required. $40 per person

Black Rock Gallery The Mountain Inn, Wintergreen, VA 434.325.2200 x.8228 Blossom’s Flowers, Gifts & Crafts 911 Front Street, Lovingston, VA 434.263.8227 Blue Moon Antique Mall & Bookstore 8230 Thomas Nelson Hwy, Lovingston, VA 434.263.8890 Cat Rock Antiques 9704 Patrick Henry Hwy (Rt. 151), Roseland, VA 434.277.8049 Claudia’s Florist & Gifts 121 Main Street, Lovingston, VA 434.263.5848 Kelly’s 5060 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Faber, VA 434.361.1169 Foxfire Gifts 954 Beech Grove Road, Nellysford, VA 434.361.2202

Valley Green Gallery Valley Green Center (Rt. 151), Nellysford, VA 434.361.9316

Garden Trade 71 River Road (Rt. 6), Faber, VA 434.263.8786

Wintergreen True Value Hardware Gift Aisle 2230 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA 434.361.1919

Hughes Mews Antiques 2471 Rockfish Valley Hwy (Rt. 151), Nellysford, VA 540.456.7237 Lang’s Art & Gift Shop Rt. 250 East slope of Afton Mountain, Afton, VA 540.456.7109 Lovingston Arts & Crafts 924 Front St. (In “The Packing Shed”), Lovingston, VA 434.996.5058 Logos of Wintergreen Mountain Inn Lodge, Wintergreen, VA 434.325.1125

orchardcountry a.m.FOG 9264 Critzer’s Shop Road, Afton, VA 540.456.7100

Our dining room is now smoke free.

Fresh Seafood Char-broiled Steaks Specialty Sandwiches Fresh Salads Daily Specials

Critzer Family Farm 9388 Critzer Shop Road (Rt. 151), Afton, VA 540.456.4772 Dickie Brothers Orchard 2552 Dickie Road ,Rt. 666, off 56 West, Massies Mill, VA 434.277.5516

Lovingston Antiques 924 Front St. (In “The Packing Shed”), Lovingston, VA 434.263.6660

Drumheller’s Orchard 1130 Drumheller Orchard Lane, (Rt. 741, off Hwy. 29) south of Lovingston 434.263.5036

Mountain Vision Pottery 2019 Beech Grove Road, Roseland, VA 434.361.1725

Fitzgerald’s Orchard 728 Harper’s Creek Lane,(Rt. 682, off Rt. 56), Tyro, VA 434.277.5798

Notforgotten Farm 3530 Tye River Road, Tye River, VA 434.263.6508

Flippin-Seaman, Inc. – Seaman & Silver Creek Orchards 5529 Crabtree Falls Hwy, Tyro, VA 434.277.5824

Rockfish Gap Country Store Intersection of Routes 250 and 151, Afton, VA 540.456.6112

Saunders Brothers Orchard 2717 Tye Brook Hwy (Rt. 56), Piney River, VA 434.277.5455

Tuckahoe Antique Mall 4202 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Nellysford, VA 434.361.2121

The Apple Shed 14815 Thomas Nelson Hwy (Hwy 29), Lovingston, VA 434.263.8843

Lunch 10:30 - 4:00 Dinner 4:00 - 9:00 Open 7 Days a Week

165 Front Street Lovingston, Virginia 434-263-8000

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 35


mabel’s comeback

Piney River Postmaster Mabel Wood (above) is back at work after undergoing liver transplant surgery.

PHOTO & STORY by TOMMY STAFFORD

Ever since we started the magazine in 2005, part of my responsibility has been to deliver the new issue in the southern part of Nelson County. One of my stops along the way has been the small Piney River Post Office, not too far north of the Amherst County Line. Over the past four years I’ve gotten to know Mabel Wood, the postmaster at Piney River since 2003. She’s been a postal worker since 1981. “I’ve loved every minute of it,” Mabel told me. Mabel is the kind of person everyone would want as their mom. A gentle, kind, lady who’s always smiling. A great person to chat with. I always looked forward to stopping in as I completed my delivery route through Piney River. Well over a year ago, I stopped by Mabel’s office but her car wasn’t there. No Mabel. A new friendly face greeted me but the familiar face I had grown accustomed to was missing. “I had a kidney stone. First one ever,” Mabel said. “It was too large to pass. So I went to the hospital

d

fresh from the farm.

f

f

and they said they couldn’t do surgery then because my platelets were low.” Even though kidney stones are painful, for many people, treatment is routine and recovery, pretty quick. But Mabel’s medical journey was just beginning. It was October 2007. “They gave me these strong doses of prednisone to try and build my platelets up and where the liver was already going bad, I didn’t realize it, that just made things worse and made the liver just about shut down,” Mabel said. And shutdown it did. Totally. Mabel was in complete liver failure, moved to the top of a nationwide transplant list, and began her wait. Without a new liver, Mabel would die. It was a Sunday morning when mabel’s phone rang. “The nurse – I’ll never remember her name – she said, ‘We think we have found a liver for you. Can you come to the hospital in a couple of hours?’ I

Local Eggs & Cheese Local Meats Canned Goods Baked Goods Homestead Dairy Wine Firewood Closed Dec 25th - Jan 5th

fd f

fresh to you.

HOURS Mon-Sat 9 to 5 • Su 10 to 4 9264 Critzer Shop Road (SR 151) Afton, VA 22920 • (540) 456-7100

afton mountain Farm Market Orchard Greenhouse

36 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009

said, ‘Yes, m’am! Can I come in my housecoat and gown?’” Within two hours of arriving at the University of Virginia Medical Center, Mabel was in surgery. By 11 p.m. she was in recovery with her newly transplanted liver. That was January 2008. But Mabel’s journey wasn’t over just yet. A series of complications stemming from a stint kept her bedridden for weeks until she convinced her doctor that the stint was to blame. “He finally agreed with me and on August 28, they removed the stint,” Mabel recalls. The pain went away and she began recovering immediately. On December 1, 2008, Christmas time, Mabel walked back into the Piney River Post Office, 14 months after leaving, not knowing if she’d ever be back. “I just stopped just a moment in and was just so thankful to God that ... I had the privilege of being able to come back.” See you next month, Mabel! NCL

Master Gardeners

6354

of Nelson County 2009 Training Class Begins February 3 Runs through March 31 Classes held at the Nelson Center in Lovingston

For more information contact the Virginia Cooperative Extension Office at : 434-263-4035


Nelson County

datebook

thursday january 1 New Year Day 2009 Brunch @ DelFosse Winery Come celebrate the New Year with an elegantly prepared Champagne Brunch prepared by Chef Genevieve. The menu includes 4 elegantly prepared dishes, paired with 4 generous samplings of our award winning wines, accompanied by Champagne. 434-263-6100

january 17 Wine and Cheese Pairing at Wintergreen Winery Guided presentation of cheeses of the world paired with Wintergreen’s wines. Fee includes generous tastings and wine glass. Limited space for this popular after hours event. Reservations necessary. Located in beautiful Nelson County on the Sunrise Side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 434-361-2519

sunday friday january 2 january 18 Live Music @ Devils Backbone Enjoy the smusic of Eli Cook. 8pm - 11pm. 434-361-1001

saturday january 3 Live Music @ Devils Backbone Enjoy the smusic of Eli Cook. 8pm - 11pm. 434-361-1001

Chili and Chat hosted by Almost Home Pet Adoption Ctr. From 12 noon - 3pm: Join us for lunch at the Tuckahoe Clubhouse at the entrance of Stoney Creek in Nellysford. We will be serving Chili and fixin’s and hosting an open discussion on volunteer opportunities, fund raising activities and venues for adoption events. Come learn about what we do and see what you can do to help! 434-263-7722 Live Music @ Devils Backbone Enjoy the smusic of Gary Randal. 2pm - 5pm. 434-361-1001

friday sunday january 4 january 30 Live Music @ Blue Mountain Brewery Enjoy the sounds of Jan Smith and Friends. 2:30pm - 5pm. 540-456-8020 Live Music @ Devils Backbone Enjoy the smusic of Gary Randal. 2pm - 5pm. 434-361-1001

NCHS Band Boosters 2nd Annual Bluegrass Jamboree Starts at 3pm and goes until whenever the music stops. There will be a Silent Auction and a Regular Auction, Regular Auction will have local Auctioneer Robert Morris 50/50 Raffle. Food Concessions will be available. All Proceeds benefit the NCHS Marching Governors’ Spring Trip to Florida. 434-361-1001

saturday saturday january 10 january 31 Mornings in the Mountains Join a Foundation Naturalist for an interpretive hike. Explore the many aspects of Wintergreen’s natural environment. $3 members, $5 resort guests, $6 nonmembers. Please register by 9:30AM. 434-325-8169

sunday january 11 Live Music @ Devils Backbone Enjoy the smusic of Gary Randal. 2pm - 5pm. 434-361-1001

saturday

Groundhog Gets a Say With Groundhog’s Day just around the corner, join us for groundhog story time. Young naturalists will love the quips and jokes that slyly teach natural history facts in Groundhog Gets A Say. After the story, we’ll have more groundhog fun with a craft to keep. Ages 4-8, parents stay with children. $ 434-325-8169

spirit of Red, White &Brew

TM

Locally crafted wine, beer and spirits from Nelson County. Afton Mountain Vineyards www.aftonmountainvineyards.com 540-456-8667 I-64 to Exit 99, take Route 250 East (1.3 miles) Right onto Route 6. Right on Route 631 (1.2 miles) Blue Mountain Brewery www.bluemountainbrewery.com 540-456-8020 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (1.3 miles) Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery www.cardinalpointwinery.com 540-456-8400 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (2.4 miles) Left on Route 638 - Avon Road (0.9 miles) Left on Batesville Road (0.7 miles) DelFosse Vineyards & Winery www.delfossewine.com 434-263-6100 I-64 to Exit 118A, take Route 29 South (20 miles) Right onto Route 616 (3.2 miles) Devils Backbone Brewing Company www.dbbrewingcompany.com 434-361-1001 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (14 miles) Right onto Route 664 (0.3 miles)

Eades Whisky – Open in 2009 www.eadeswhisky.com 800-282-8223 I-64 to Exit 118A. Route 29 South (32 miles) Left onto Route 641 Flying Fox Vineyard www.flyingfoxvineyard.com 434-361-1692 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 (7 miles) Right onto Chapel Hollow Road - Route 709 Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery www.hilltopberrywine.com 434-361-1266 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (10 miles) Left onto Route 612 (3 miles) Lovingston Winery www.lovingstonwinery.com 434-263-8467 I-64 to Exit 118A, take Route 29 South (35 miles) Right onto Route 653 - Freshwater Cove Road (1 mile) Mountain Cove Vineyards www.mountaincovevineyards.com 434-263-5392 I-64 to Exit 118A, take Route 29 South (28 miles) Right onto Route 718 - Mountain Cove Road (1.5 miles) Right onto Fortunes Cove Lane (1.8 miles) Veritas Vineyard & Winery www.veritaswines.com 540-456-8000 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (3 miles) Right onto Route 6 (1.3 miles) Wintergreen Winery www.wintergreenwinery.com 434-361-2519 I-64 to Exit 107, take Route 250 West (6 miles) Left onto Route 151 South (14 miles) Right onto Route 664 (0.5 miles) COMING SOON: Democracy Winery Nelson County Visitors Center nelsoncounty.com

800.282.8223

Want to be included in our datebook? Email your event information, short and sweet, to datebook@nelsoncountylife. com. We’ll try to publish as many events as possible, space permitting. Deadline for next month’s issue is the 15th. Sorry neighbors, event MUST be in Nelson County or benefit an organization in Nelson County.

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 37


snapshots

on the mountain Even the youngest skiers enjoyed the slopes at Wintergreen Resort thanks to a streak of chilly temps that arrived earlier than expected. PHOTOGRAPHY by PAUL PURPURA

38 NELSON COUNTY LIFE JANUARY 2009


in the valley

Children enjoyed a visit to Mountainside Petting Farm in Afton where animals such as goats and turkeys greeted the kids, not to mention Santa!

PHOTOGRAPHY by BEN HERNANDEZ

JANUARY 2009 NELSON COUNTY LIFE 39


Let us help you find your wonderland in Nelson County and the surrounding area.

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Resort Bungalow with Blue Ridge Mountain views; 1st level master, cedar cathedral ceiling, deck, balcony, fireplace; WPI; 1,784 sq ft; 3br/2ba; .72 ac

Call our team today!

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Properties Currently Available: Nelson County: Homes: 344 Land: 268 Wintergreen & Stoney Creek: Homes: 96 Condos: 115 Lots: 113

1944 High Ridge Place; MLS# 459715; $359,900

Shenandoah & Rockfish Valley Views! Wintergreenʼs premier condo bldg w/ ski slope views; deck, fireplace, and upgrades! WPI; 1,216 sq ft; 2br/2ba

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11304 Crabtree Falls Hwy; MLS# 458379; $299,000 Log cabin w/ mountain views & Tye River frontage; front porch, fire pit, woodstove, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings; furnished; 1165 sq ft; 2br/2ba

Marlo G. Allen, Assoc. Broker 434-996-3525 InsistOnThatGirl.com

NELSON COUNTY LIFE

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1701 Tanbark Dr; MLS# 455854; $1,199,900 Farmhouse w/ custom expansion; mtn views; creek; ponds; barn; pool; 4 car garage; ideal for B&B, horses, or vineyard! 5,526 sq ft; 5br/3.5ba; 10ac

Sara McGann 434-996-4962 DiscoverNelsonCounty.com

Erwin Berry III 434-325-7143 ErwinBerryIIIAdvantage.com

Lowest priced 4 bedroom property at Wintergreen! Spacious; sold tastefully furnished; convenient to Spa, Golf, & Skiing; WPI; $2,103; 4br/3.5ba

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4 Trillium Pl; MLS# 459384; $299,000

245 Cedar Glen Close; MLS# 430072; $250,000

Looking for the best building lot? Incredible views of water, golf and mountains! Ready to build with public water & sewer available; WPI; .86 ac

FEATURED LAND:

Wintergreen Value! Laurel Springs Dr; #455712; $75,000; wooded, gently rolling w/ mature trees; WPI; .41 ac; Owner/agent

Nelson, a Division of the Fishersville Office, 434-361-0333 JANUARY 2009


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