NRV Magazine Nov/Dec 2014

New River Valley’s Premier Lifestyle Magazine

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November/December 2014 nrvmagazine.com

Gift Guide

Happy Holidays HELPING HANDS | MAKING ORNAMENTS | NRV RIDES SWEET SENSATIONS | PULASKI COUNTY HISTORY | FINANCIAL CHECK UP

connecting you to better health AND IT ALL STARTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

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In the New River Valley, our warm and friendly staff delivers care using some of the most advanced medical and technical resources available. Our ongoing commitment to keeping you and your family well means we are here for more than just emergencies.

Whether you need help managing a chronic disease such as diabetes or COPD, you need to get your yearly colonoscopy or mammogram, or you need to find a family physician or OB/GYN, Carilion Clinic’s care team can connect you to all of the services you need for better health. And it is all in your community.

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CONNECT WITH US: 800-422-8482 | CarilionClinic.org/CNRV

When it comes to celebrating the holidays, there’s always room at

Fashions for Evergreens Trees on Display November 27 – January 1

2014

A must-see holiday event! Our foyer's 14 professionally designed trees present awe-inspiring decorating ideas in this extraordinary display.

The Inn's Graham Central Station Debuts Thanksgiving Day Our culinary team is bringing back our popular "Graham Central Station" - a gingerbread village that will delight our guests all season long!

Family Night at Preston's November 28 and 29, December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 | 5 - 10 pm On Fridays and Saturdays this season, enjoy a casual family dinner in Preston's with a traditional holiday menu that will delight the whole family from Santa's Little Helpers to Mrs. Claus herself.

Holiday Carolers Friday, December 12 and 19 | 6 - 8 pm

A Holiday Treat This season, treat yourself to the luxury of The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center and be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of the holidays.

On select days this holiday season, enjoy deluxe accommodations from only $89.00 per night.

For reservations, call 540.231.8000 or visit www.InnatVirginiaTech.com

Cozy up with a complimentary mug of hot chocolate and enjoy live entertainment at The Inn featuring the Blacksburg Master Chorale's own "Ad Hoctet." This strolling group of carolers will ring in the season with Christmas carols and other holiday favorites.

A Visit from Santa Friday, December 12 | Performance starts at 5 pm Experience the magic of Santa Claus at The Inn! Our visit with Santa is a little different, you get to spend time listening to Santa’s stories, singing songs and sharing a magical experience. Children sit on the floor or move about the room comfortably, getting to know Santa at their own pace.

Photographs are allowed so be sure to bring your camera.

Champagne Sunday Brunch with Santa November 30, December 7, 14 and 21 | 11 am – 1:30 pm Santa is your host for this bountiful brunch buffet. Join him for bowl-full-of-jelly laughs and tell him what you really want for Christmas.

Brunch patrons will enjoy a complimentary photo with Santa.

Christmas Eve at Preston’s Wednesday, December 24 | 5 – 9 pm ’Tis the season for entertaining! Make your reservations now for a special holiday four-course plated dinner in Preston’s Restaurant.

Christmas Day Brunch in the Ballroom Thursday, December 25 | 11 am – 2:30 pm A meal at The Inn is always special … but the holiday season holds a special charm. Come enjoy the holiday decorations, the sounds of the season, and our genuine wishes for a joyous holiday.

New Year’s Evening at Preston’s Wednesday, December 31 | 5 – 9 pm Close out 2014 "Inn"-style with live entertainment, a four-course dinner and a champagne toast.

901 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061 | For reservations, please call 540.231.8000 or visit www.InnatVirginiaTech.com

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across boundaries Saturday, November 22, 2014, 7:30 PM

Cantus and Theatre Latté Da

All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 The Western Front, Christmas Eve, 1914: out of the violence of the Great War’s trenches comes a silence, then a song as a young German soldier steps into no man’s land singing Stille Nacht. Thus began an extraordinary night of camaraderie, music, and peace remembered in All Is Calm with carols and war songs. $20-$45, students with ID and youth 18 and under $10

MOSS ARTS CENTER www.artscenter.vt.edu | 540-231-5300 Blacksburg, VA NRVMAGAZINE.com

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Your bank says nothing’s changing.

Sometimes change is good.

These days a lot of banks are changing hands, closing branches and shifting priorities ~ and telling customers like you everything’s fine. So, instead of “business as usual,” we’d like to offer you a choice ~ the stability and reliability of a business lender that’s happy to be here and plans to stay.

If you need a business loan, talk to Jonathan Kruckow, our New River Valley Executive.

We’d love to help your business ~ and this community ~ grow!

Call 540.250.0280 to arrange a one-on-one meeting.

Good people. Good service. Good neighbors.

902 South Main Street, Blacksburg, VA GraysonNationalBank.com

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CONTENTS

November - December

2014

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Making Ornament s

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Chris t in C hrist mas

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G re e n H eron Art C ent er

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He lp ing Hands

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NRV Rides: Jaguar

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S we e t Sensat ions

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G i f t s f o r C h i l dr en

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Th i s N o t So O l d H ou s e

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R i ve r C i t y G r i l l

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Th an k s g i vi n g Tu r key Fr y er

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Pu l as k i C o u n t y H i s tor y

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G i f t G u i de 7

Phone: (540) 552-3377

Specializing in Foundation & Wall Repair throughout the New River and Roanoke Valleys.

Renew Your Space With Snyder & Associates

Building you can trust since 1985 • Residential • Renovations

• Additions • Commercial

Helical Pile Foundation System

500 South Main Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 Phone: (540) 552-3377 FAX: (540) 552-2972 Email: snyder@usit.net www.snyderandassoc.com

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P. O. Box 11816 Blacksburg, VA 24062 o: 540-961-2015 nrvmagazine@msn.com www.nrvmagazine.com

PUBLISHER Country Media, Inc. Phillip Vaught MANAGING EDITOR Joanne Anderson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sabrina Chambers DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Dennis Shelor WRITERS Joanne Anderson Karl Kazaks Krisha Chachra Lesley Howard Sheila Nelson Kelli Scott Justin Ashwell Jordan Scott Wes Brandi Angie Clevinger Jennifer Cooper Blair McGee PHOTOGRAPHY Amodeo Photography Shanen Photography Nathan Cooke Laura’s Focus Photography Forever and Always Photography Magnifico Photography COVER IMAGE: Laura’s Focus Photography © 2014 Country Media, Inc. Country Media, Inc. will not knowingly publish any advertisement that is illegal or misleading to its readers. Neither the advertiser nor Country Media, Inc. will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors. The publisher assumes no financial liability for copy omissions by Country Media, Inc. other than the cost of the space occupied by the error.

Corrections or cancellations to be made by an advertiser shall be received no later than 5 p.m. the 20th of each publishing month. No claim shall be allowed for errors not affecting the value of the advertisement. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from Country Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Real Estate advertised in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968.

NRVMAGAZINE.com

Pasture Talk My husband, John [age 77], was sick in bed for three days.

The fourth morning, he felt better, loaded his Explorer with ladders, a circular saw, band saw and assorted tools and headed to Giles County to do some volunteer labor on a ceiling at the Catholic Church. He departed around 9:15 a.m., and like every Wednesday, I left for duplicate bridge at 12:15. At 4:45, the mail wasn’t picked up, he hadn’t been home for lunch, and the dogs notified me they had not been out or fed (4:00 Daylight Savings Time supper hour for them). When John didn’t answer his cell phone, I called the Giles County Sheriff Department.

He was grounded upon arriving home half an hour later, and my point is that we never forget our law enforcement officers, along with myriad volunteers who stand ready. It always comes to mind on 9/11, but these are year-round, 24/7 service men and women we can count on. These guys (thank you very much!) were fast to respond and quick to call me back, twice. So, when you get some little fundraising envelope for your local law enforcement, rescue or fire department, drop them a check -$5, $20, $50, anything. As Kymn Davidson-Hamley, long-time executive director with United Way, would say: “We’re all one day away from an emergency.”

And that reminds me of a couple of my young friends, Andrew Broomell, 20, and Rachel Copeland, 19. Andrew attends Virginia Tech, Rachel is pursing a nursing degree at New River Community College. Both are EMTs with Blacksburg Rescue Squad, and we swap stories sometimes.

It was many decades ago that I served with the Boulder Emergency Squad (Colorado), its first and only woman. I also was an EMT, as well as CPR instructor, hazardous materials handler, nuclear radiation monitor, qualified rescuer and rose to become an officer. We were even occasionally commissioned (and armed) police officers, back in the day. Ah, the memories. Many good, some rough.

The Women’s Resource Center and To Our House are other worthy causes for donations ~ profiled in these pages. While I am on a few ways you can part with your money, I encourage you to buy local. It’s possibly the number one best place to shop. Buy everything you can on your Christmas list locally, and if you can’t find something local, change the gift idea to something you can. Economic vitality is paramount to strong communities. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Joanne Anderson

ManagingEditor

P.S. My husband is as content with a remote in his hand as a chain saw.

It has to be those hardy Wisconsin Swedish farmer genes.

Nov/Dec 2014

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PARENT I N G

You CAN Make an Ornament the gift with no price tag

By Blair McGee

We’ve heard it a million times: “It’s the thought that counts!” A simple and true phrase we often forget in today’s fastpaced, technologically-advanced world. Sure, who doesn’t love a flashy gift? The latest gadget with all the bells and whistles does make for a nice present, but what about the ones with sentimental value? The kind you keep and treasure for years to come? The ones that stir up feelings of nostalgia and remind you that you’re loved. Those are the gifts worth giving. So whether you’re doing Christmas on a budget this year, or you’re trying to really pull on the heartstrings of loved ones, a homemade Christmas ornament could be the prefect present.

If you’re already shaking your head and thinking: “No, not me, I have zero artistic ability,” stop right there! With online tutorials and sites like Pinterest and Etsy with step-by-step directions and endless ideas, along with stores like Michael’s, JoAnn Fabrics and Paint ‘N’ Fun, you really have no excuse.

A quick search for “handmade Christmas ornaments” on Pinterest reveals boundless possibilities. From the cute and simple for-kids types to more advanced projects, there is something for everyone. Rustic ornaments made with materials like burlap, twine and unfinished wood seem to be the trend this year. With these natural, neutral materials, you can be sure that the ornament you craft will easily co-mingle with almost any combination of Christmas adornments.

Another popular idea flooding the Pinterest boards is a Christmas ornament with the perfect personal touch. This ornament is ideal for gifting to a pair of newlyweds. You won’t need much in the way of supplies, and it takes almost no skill to pull off this do-it-yourself project. Grab the couples’ wedding invitation or save-the-date. Cut it into thin strips length-wise.

Use a pair of scissors to curl the strands of paper much like a ribbon. Now all you have to do it put the curls into a clear glass or plastic ball ornament and put the top and hook back on. You could add a little glitter or other extras on the inside and top it off with a ribbon. Include a little card explaining the ornament and its sentiment. You can fill a glass ornament with anything with a little thought and a pair of tweezers.

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Such an ornament can be made for other loved ones, using colored paper. You can personalize a clear glass ornament in any way, which makes them perfect for creating a one-of-akind gift. For extra inspiration, check out Etsy to see what others are creating and selling online. You might just decide to open an Etsy shop of your own!

Michael’s offers a great Find a project tab on its website. Here you can find fun ideas for a variety of holiday crafts like wreaths, seasonal Mason jar crafts, and you guessed it, ornaments! The site tells you exactly what you need, how much it costs and provides detailed instructions. You can also contact the local Michael’s store in Christiansburg to learn about the classes. Jo-Ann Fabrics offers a similar section on its website under Projects + Inspiration. With a little time and research you’ll be crafting like Martha Stewart in no time!

Paint ‘N’ Fun in the New River Valley Mall is another option for creating a special gift. Here you can paint an array of ceramic items and have them fired in a kiln for high gloss and durability. If you choose to paint an ornament here, you can be sure it will be a treasure.

Handmade ornaments can be crafted to meet specific interests, tastes and themes. You can tie in a friend’s love of sports or a career theme or use an old family Christmas photo to ignite old memories, anything goes.

A handmade ornament gift so thoughtful and special will never go out of style like a pair of bellbottoms, and it will never be outdated like CD or DVD. Homemade ornaments really are a gift that keeps on giving. Each year, the ornament will bring joy and gratefulness and fond memories. These little treasures create the perfect moment to reminisce and reflect on all of the good life has to offer.

Blair McGee is a young professional and recent Virginia Tech graduate who majored in Communications: Public Relations. As a result of writing this article, she might be crafting a few handmade ornaments this season.

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NRV H OME

Keeping Christ in Christmas Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Laura’s Focus Photography

If you believe that the O gauge Lionel train ~ complete with lights, voice and conductor ~ running on its track around the Christmas tree is solely for the grandchildren, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. Joe Jones’ eyes light up just like a Christmas tree when he bends down to turn it on, even when there are no children in the house.

The choo-choo is as charming and merry as all the holiday decorations Joan places outside and indoors, starting right after Thanksgiving. Their Cape-style, mountain home in the hills of Montgomery County looks festive from first sight with a wreath hung in every window and handmade Christmas flags on the porch, each one crafted by the late Anne Pandapas, a dear friend. But the American flag trumps all when their son, Ty, is serving overseas during the holiday season. Joe served five years in the Air Force as an F4C pilot, and Ty has served several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan with NCIS. “We used to cut a tree with the kids,” Joan reveals, “but now we stay with the big artificial one in the family room and a small one in the dining room. The little quilt around the small tree base was made by a lady in Giles County. Joe [a long-time local Realtor] sold her a house. She and her mother made quilts, and she told Joe to pick out one he liked.”

Soft greenery is tastefully placed on the dining room hutch, kitchen island, chandelier, family room and along the entry foyer banister to the second floor. Red berries, plaid ribbon and 12

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five needlepoint stockings are hung with care on the same oak banister. “My mom made every one of these stockings,” Joe states. “They are all wool and some of our most prized family heirlooms to be handed down.”

If the ceramic nativity scene isn’t as neatly arranged as some that you see, it simply means the grandchildren have been playing with the pieces. “We keep Christ in Christmas in our home,” Joan explains, “and we encourage the children to know all about the place, people and animals in the nativity collection.

Besides, it’s only Christmas stuff. If something breaks, that’s okay.”

The Joneses have lived here for the past 17 years, and the house is just as charming year-round. With two local grandchildren and six more who visit as often as they can, the 3200-square-foot home is well-used and enjoyed by all. The family room is open through a lovely dining area and into a large, contemporary, country kitchen. Generous windows bring in tons of natural light and offer a woodland view into the forest adjacent to Jefferson National Forest.

Joan has a casual, upscale sense of style that’s as attractive as it is warm and inviting. Poinsettias flank the fireplace during the Christmas season, and comfy chairs, soft, plaid drapes, oak dining table and chairs and a variety of pretty, unpretentious, decorative accents blend and contrast for an overall congenial and gracious atmosphere in every season.

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practical enduring

See details of this kitchen and other projects online

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ALTERNATIVES, INC. DESIGN BUILD TEAM

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“My mom made every one of these stockings,” . . . . . “They are all wool and some of our most prized family heirlooms to be handed down.”

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FEATU R E

The Green Heron Art Center fine arts, indie arts, classes and more Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Shanen Photography

She’ll smile when you come in the shop, and while you admire the crafts and jewelry, she’ll point out the earrings for sale that she has made. Once you make a purchase, she can show you where to sign your name and click on the tablet if you want a receipt. She is, as they say in royalty terms, next in line. But, she can’t really own and run The Green Heron Art Center ~ yet. She’s just 4 1/2 years old.

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So Zoey brings her mother, Lauri Murphy, 32, to work to make decisions and manage things. All in all, no one is more surprised than this mom that she’s a small business owner, running her own show. “I’ve always been a crafty and artsy type of person,” she says. “I excelled in art classes all through school and graduated from Radford University with a fine arts degree in metalsmithing and jewelry making.”

It didn’t take long out of college for Lauri’s love for making jewelry to expand to an interest in creating alternative

“I fell in love with the indie art scene and started to appreciate how many every day items can be made by hand instead of simply bought at some chain store,” she states

crafts and clothing.

enthusiastically. In fact, once she connected with the Burnt Creative Indie Craft and Vintage Market in Blacksburg and saw all the possibilities for home necessities, unique gifts and vintage finds with a punk rock alternative edge, she felt like she finally found a place where she fit in.

Success in the local markets prompted her to approach consignment shops, including The Greer Heron Art Center in Radford. “Becky [Lattuca, the previous owner] graciously accepted me as a consignment artist, and I began teaching metalsmithing and jewelry making classes.” In March of this year, the shop changed hands, and Lauri’s entrepreneurial endeavors expanded overnight from consignment artist and art instructor to manager, owner, chief executive, designer, PR director, bookkeeper and all the other things small business owners must do.

Most of the artists have stayed on with Lauri, and she’s attracted more, some with a contemporary alternative and indie style, slightly veering away from just fine arts. The shop no longer does framing, and the art classes have expanded, and little artists turned out in July for the first kids’ classes for age 1.5 to 15.

“For kids, art, creation and innovative thinking are engaging and nurturing activities which are necessary in a growing mind. It engages children in a process that aids in developing self-esteem, self-discipline, cooperation and selfmotivation,” Lauri explains. Zoey could probably expand on that train of thought and talk about the Kid’s Summer Art Expo, which will run again next year.

The shop is not only a cool arts and crafts boutique, but also holds a rotating gallery featuring a local artist. Through mid-December, it is Graham Fisher with his stunning series of paintings and color pencil drawings that present a surrealist twist on realistic elements and esoteric themes. Photographer Frank Clark will be featured following Fisher. Classes in watercolor, stained glass, pottery, ceramics, jewelry making, metalsmithing and more go on year round.

This is the kind of place, like Matrix Gallery in Blacksburg, where you can find something for everyone on your Christmas list and throughout the year for birthdays, anniversaries and any special occasion. If you NRVMAGAZINE.com

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Bank Local.

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CHRISTIANSBURG 220 Laurel Street NE 540.381.4000 www.grandhomefurnishings.com

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OPEN EVERY DAY

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2014

don’t have a special occasion, then something from an NRV arts and crafts shop will, like champagne, make the occasion special, a sweet surprise for someone.

Buy local, take an art class, sign up your kids, give a gift certificate (grandparents: good idea), wander through The Green Heron Art Center and Matrix Gallery frequently as the merchandise changes. “Artists put their hearts and souls into their creations,” Lauri states. “My goal is not only to respectfully represent them, but also to inform the community of the beauty, creativity, hard work and integrity that goes into one handmade item. I am proud of our diverse selection of handcrafted fine art, jewelry, clothes, pottery, home goods and more. We encourage the community to support the artists and our family-run, small business. Right, Zoey?”

“Right on, Mom.” NRVMAGAZINE.com

The Green Heron Art Center 111 3rd Ave., Radford 540-731-3103 www.greenheronarts.com Follow “The Green Heron Art Center” on Facebook and @greenheronarts on Instagram.

Matrix Gallery Fine Crafts 115 N. Main St., Blacksburg 540-951-3566 www.matrixgallery.com Follow “Matrix Gallery” on Facebook

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Helping Hands

By Jordan Scott

As the weather cools and the holidays draw near, it is important to stay warm and keep family close. While we are giving thanks this season, many of us may wonder what we can do to help others who have less to be thankful for. The Women’s Resource Center and To Our House address some of the needs in the New River Valley. Both domestic violence and homelessness can affect anyone of any race, class, religion or gender. It is often easier to make assumptions about people in these situations than to accept that our lives, too, are susceptible to such struggles.

There are numerous charities, non-profits and other organizations that are in need of your attention. These are just two examples of ways that the New River Valley takes care of its community. Volunteering is always appreciated. Please consider the Women’s Resource Center and To Our House when considering how to lend a helping hand.

Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley The Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley focuses on helping women and children who have been harmed by domestic violence and/or sexual assault. The website, www. wrcnrv.org, supplies useful information concerning computer safety, different kinds of abuse and how to get help. Women can call the crisis hotline for assistance or just for somebody to talk to as trained crisis intervention staff and volunteers are available 24/7.

Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, environmental or social, and it is generally about power and control. “More than 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and more than 1 in 4 men (28.5%) in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime,” according to thehotline.org. The Women’s Resource Center offers temporary shelter for women and children affected by domestic violence, and families that leave the emergency shelter and desire a supportive

living environment have the option of applying for transitional housing apartments before stepping out on their own.

The Computer Safety tab on the website explains the importance of safely planning an escape from domestic violence. You can find tips on how to navigate the site securely and information regarding the possible necessity of secrecy. The website also features an Emergency Escape button that will take you away from the site and prevent anyone from pressing the back button to return.

To Our House To Our House provides shelter and safety for men during the cold months from November through March. The group is run by volunteers from interfaith communities around the New River Valley who value the welfare of single, homeless men in our area. Men who arrive at the Intake Center (New River Community Action office, 110 Roanoke St., Christiansburg) by 5:00 p.m. each day are transported to a warm location for a meal and the night, often inside local churches.

This setup temporarily relieves the guys of worries regarding food and shelter and allows them to focus on other aspects of their lives. To Our House would eventually like to link their guests with employment opportunities. Over the 2012-13 housing season, To Our House sheltered 29 different guests at 12 host sites across 21 weeks, brought together more than 50 faith communities and service organizations and engaged 1,235 volunteers representing 6,350 service hours and served more than 3,500 meals. The guests participate in fellowship each morning.

The website, www.toourhouse.org, has a list of emergency resources outside of To Our House for homeless men and women who need additional help. You can also find out how you can donate or become a volunteer. Browse the newsletters to keep up with To Our House throughout the winter.

Jordan Scott is a freelance writer and VT graduate, class of 2014.

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HOME IS . . .

where memories are made.

JEREMY HART

400 N. Main Street, Blacksburg, VA

NRVMAGAZINE.com

Nov/Dec 2014

Associate Broker Jeremy@NestRealty.com 540.998.4731 NRVLiving.com NestRealty.com

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Jaguar Elegance, Power and Grace

Photos by Shanen Photography

By Karl H. Kazaks There is perhaps no other automobile which embodies elegance, power and grace quite like Jaguar. Its best models combine throaty performance with a feel of refined luxury that can stand the test of time. Take, for example, two 1980s-era Jaguars owned by residents of the New River Valley, cars their owners use today as regular drivers.

Retired Air Force Colonel Jim Lucas considers his fullsized 1986 XJ6 “one of the most beautifully-designed cars. I love how the curved design allows for smooth airflow,” he says. “It reminds me of certain aircraft configurations.”

Dave Albig has enjoyed his two-door 1988 XJ-SC V12 coupe for almost 20 years. “It has a real pretty line,” he states.

Jaguar began as a producer of motorcycle sidecars in the 1920s. It took on the name Jaguar after World War II, when it developed a reputation for making attractive sports cars which performed well on the international motor racing circuit. In 1968, Jaguar introduced the XJ6 as its flagship sedan. The model was immediately noticeable for the scalloped form of its hood (or 22

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bonnet), extending back from semi-recessed headlights.

Lucas’s car is a series III XJ6, referring to the make’s third design type produced from 1979 to 1992. Lucas also owns another series III, a 1991 XJ6 Vanden Plas, and he has had two other Jaguars. This one has a stately 113-inch wheelbase and an in-line, overhead cam, six cylinder, cast-iron block and aluminum head engine with 258 cubic inch displacement. The engine has a pleasing purr and provides plenty of power, Lucas attests.

You can’t miss that the car is a Jaguar – the hood ornament is a large jaguar figurine. The image of a roaring jaguar head, an emblem used on more recent Jaguars as the hood decal, is found on the steering wheel. Inside, the cabin evokes an estateliving feel, with leather seating and elm wood trim around the instrument panel and beyond. The car also has twin fuel tanks.

Lucas has led a full life, serving in the active duty military both during WWII (immediately out of Auburn High School) and the Korean War (after finishing at Roanoke College).

He taught economics at Virginia Tech for more than 30 years,

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Giles County Events Nov 1 | Narrows Craft Fair 9:00 am till 4:00 pm. Narrows High School Nov 8 | Learn the Art of Food Garnishing 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at Pearisburg Community Center.

Nov 15 | Shortcut Cookie Swap 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Pearisburg Comm. Center.

Nov 16 | Come Bake Bread 3:00 pm - 6:30 pm at Pearisburg Volunteer Fire Department Nov 21 | Prepare Hearty Soups for Cool Days 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Pearisburg Community Center.

Nov 26 | Thanksgiving at Mountain Lake 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Thanksgiving Buffet in Harvest Restaurant.

Dec 5-6 | Dinner & a Show: A Broadway Christmas 4-course Dinner in Harvest Restaurant Performace of "A Broadway Christmas" in Mary's Barn at 8:00pm by Enchante Cabaret

the

GREEN HERON ART CENTER

greenheronarts.com | twitter • facebook • instagram See new arrivals & promotions on Instagram! @greenheronarts

•Rotating Featured Artists •Classes & Workshops •Weekly Kids’ Art Classes

111 3rd Ave. Radford 540-731-3103 www.greenheronarts.com greenheronarts@gmail.com

Bring this ad in and receive 10% off your total purchase priced between $20-$200!

www.gilescounty.org/News NRVMAGAZINE.com

Valid until 12/22/14 Nov/Dec 2014

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Photos by Joanne Anderson served in the Air Force Reserves, and ran a dairy and then beef cattle farm. Since retiring from Tech, he’s earned two more graduate degrees to go with the two he completed earlier in his career.

His sedan still has its original motor; when running, it purrs deeply in a manner befitting of a car named Jaguar. The series III XJ6s were popular when in production, with sales of the line increasing throughout the 1980s, giving the company some profitability before it was bought and absorbed by Ford in 1990.

Since 2008, Jaguar has been owned by India’s Tata Motors.

When Albig bought his Jaguar sports coupe in 1996, it had 13,500 miles. Up until he took the car for a test drive, Albig had, he admits, “about 10 minutes experience with sports cars. I had no intention of buying a vehicle; I was just doing research.

But I liked it, no question about that. Buying the car, though, was a real shot in the dark.”

The decision to purchase the Jaguar has paid rich dividends, however. Albig drives it “virtually daily” during nonwinter months, so his car now has some 91,000 miles. Albig, who lives outside of Radford, regularly takes the car to the River Course. He plays the course once or twice a week, but he goes almost every day to hit range balls. One of the reasons Albig liked 24

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the car, in fact, is how its trunk (or boot) is so spacious compared to other sports cars. It has enough room for his clubs and his cart.

Over the years, Albig hasn’t had to perform anything other than basic maintenance on the car’s mechanical systems. It has an upholstered tee-top or targa-type roof. It also has a second, convertible roof, but Albig prefers the tee-top. Two years ago, he had the roof re-done by Bishop Upholstery of Radford.

The car, with its spoke wheels, cream color, blue roof and pin striping, attracts plenty of attention. One time, a woman followed Albig until he stopped to let her take a photo of him with the car. And it continues to have the same impressive performance it did the day he took it for a test drive. “It loves Parkway-like driving,” he says, “snaking around and accelerating out of a curve.”

“It has good pick-up, too, although it’s a little light in the back end. If you drive like a 17-year-old, it’ll fishtail.” Because Albig lives down a dirt road, he added mud flaps to his Jaguar.

They’re unusual, but they help keep his favorite car looking good.

A Jaguar’s beauty and style are traits everyone can appreciate. Lucas and Albig are lucky enough to have that experience from behind the wheel on a regular basis.

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EATS

Sweet Sensations

By Jennifer Cooper Photos courtesy of Our Daily Bread

Traditions are an important part of the family holiday experience, including desserts, and sometimes it is fun to spice things up a little. Several New River Valley chefs provide an eclectic mix of conventional and modern sweets this season and share tips with home bakers to make their own culinary creations sparkle.

“Diets go out the window,” laughs Aurore Tellier, general manager of Our Daily Bread in Blacksburg, “so sweets sell well at Christmas.” Owner Danielle Tellier says that their pastry chefs like to play with seasonal flavors and think outside the box, with their final products being a collaboration of the whole staff.

A host of special desserts is on the holiday menu at ODB, as it is known to regulars. From her French background, Danielle Tellier brings stollen, a European bread mixed with candied fruit and walnuts and filled with marzipan. The restaurant also offers a Christmas log in two varieties: chocolate cake filled 26

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with chocolate cream which has chocolate shavings on top, and yellow cake with strawberries inside and strawberry butter cream with white chocolate shavings as garnish. Other popular seasonal desserts include decorated sugar cookies, tea cookies, French macaroons, pies, a rum Bundt cake and fruitcake.

Linda West, owner and pastry chef of The Black Hen restaurant in Blacksburg, says that desserts have been moving well at the new restaurant, and she expects sales to rise during their first holiday season. West envisions offering traditional desserts with a modern flair. Gingerbread cake made with fresh ginger will be accompanied by poached pear with pear brandy sabayon, a custard sauce. For chocolate lovers, there will be chocolate fondant ~ a molten cake served with candied cranberries and cranberry sauce and mint gel to create an aesthetically-pleasing, red and green plate.

“I gravitate toward flavors I have good memories of,” says owner and baker Donna Speaks of Mockingbird Café and

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Bakery in Christiansburg. Decorated items are holiday hits as Mockingbird’s decorators are artists in their off time. Cutout sugar cookies, holiday cupcakes and gingerbread houses especially popular. Speaks includes Italian Christmas cookies in her annual menu because her grandmother and aunts made them when she went to New York for the holidays as a child.

“They would work days ahead, making dozens of varieties and freezing them on trays to bring out when all the kids arrived,” she remembers.

Customers dictate what local establishments serve.

Our Daily Bread is now baking more items for Jewish holidays, including flavored challah bread, honey cakes and chocolate babka. Demand for gluten-free food is increasing as well. ODB offers two cakes, one chocolate with chocolate butter cream filling and the other walnut filled with hazelnut mousseline cream. Mockingbird Café is making a flourless peanut butter cookie.

Restaurateurs’ days don’t end at the office; they continue creating in their own kitchens. West’s traditional family dessert is an almond sponge cake, gluten free, filled with chocolate orange mousse and topped with a chocolate ganache glaze. The Telliers keep things simple at their homes with desserts like cheesecake and rice pudding. Danielle Tellier naturally produces desserts with a French flair. “And it wouldn’t be Christmas to me without jam thumbprint cookies,” adds Aurore Tellier.

For home bakers, Speaks recommends several economical, time-saving tips. She makes pie dough in a food processor and freezes the crusts for faster assembly when baking.

Cookie dough and muffins also freeze well and can be pulled out during the busy holiday season for quick and easy offerings.

“Bread pudding is a way to use up extra bread for a comforting, traditional, dinner dessert,” she says.

“Festive, fizzy, champagne, light” are words that come to West’s mind when asked what she associates with New Year’s Eve. The Black Hen will likely feature a dessert to share, such as a sampler, for this romantic night. She also plans to use citrus fruit and champagne in New Year’s Eve desserts. Elderflower liqueur is currently popular, and West combines it with champagne and lemon juice for a special occasion cocktail.

Our Daily Bread’s New Year’s Eve offerings will be sweet and decadent, people’s “last hurrah of the season,” according to Tellier. This includes their French king cake ~ a puff pastry with almond cream and a charm inside. The finder of the charm gets to be the king or queen, with ODB including a playful crown for the winner to wear. And, of course, something chocolate will be on the menu.

The excitement of holiday baking is palpable in these establishments. “It’s fun to work here,” piped up a staff member at ODB. And we, the New River Valley customers, reap the delicious benefits.

Jennifer Cooper is a freelance writer in Christiansburg whose baking philosophy is quite simple: the more chocolate, the better.

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Do-It-Yourself Holiday Edible Decorations There is more to desserts than just the icing on the cake. What goes on top of the icing can add panache to even ordinary sweets: • Arrange chocolate leaves on top of a cake in the form of a poinsettia. Use candied cranberries in the middle as the holly berries.

• Brush cranberries in egg white and sugar for a frosted look.

• Use strips of Fruit Roll-Ups to make ribbon.

• For a pie, cut out leaves from dough with a holly cutter pattern available at a hobby or cake decorating store. Paste with egg wash to the crust, then make balls out of pie crust for berries.

• Craft holly leaves made with chocolate and painted with edible gold dust.

• To mimic the look of bark, drag a fork through a chocolate glaze.

• Heap meringue on top of a cake and swirl decoratively to create ‘snow.’

• Create a stained glass look in cookies by cutting out pieces within the cookies and filling with crushed or whole candy.

• Deliver a perfect dusting of powdered sugar to your favorite dessert with a tea infuser.

• Raspberries and mint leaves together produce a Christmas-y red and green theme.

Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 Tbl. milk 2 tsp. baking powder 2 cups flour 1/2 tsp. vanilla Mix all, roll out, cut out. Dip clean finger in milk and swirl over cookie top before sprinkling with colored sugar to help sugar stay in place. Bake ~10-15 minutes at 375º F. Nov/Dec 2014

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Meaningful Gifts for Children shopping tips for young ones

By Angie Clevinger It is more important than ever in our solo-oriented, technologybased world that presents for children increase opportunities to talk and interact with parents and peers. As a kindergarten teacher, I am shocked at the evidence of poor oral language development in our pupils. Having conversations with your child is essential to their speaking and reading success. Creating a home environment which is language and reading rich promotes an atmosphere where children learn to value speaking clearly, reading and writing ~ all directly related to academic advancement.

It can be challenging to buy holiday presents, especially if you don’t have children or yours have been out of the house for a while. As a mother of two young children, I cringe at gifts which make a lot of noise or have too many parts; inevitably, after a couple of times playing with such a toy, my children have lost or misplaced the pieces leaving messes in various places in our home, or my husband and I have hidden the annoying noise maker in pursuit of creating a headache-free zone, if there is such a thing in a house with young children.

When shopping any time of year, look for items for children that don’t fall apart or make unceasing sounds and that enhance reading and writing skills. Here are some helpful hints for the children on your Christmas list:

game to a whole new level, and you can couple that with talking about basic first aid and when to use 911. My three-year-old has a grocery cart full of plastic food items. Add a notebook and pencils for making grocery lists. For children a bit older, include a chef’s hat and cooking utensils. Include a recipe box and grocery store gift card so your budding cook can find recipes, write them down, and then create their own culinary masterpieces.

3. Sci-fi and Action Figures: In Star Trek, Jean-Luc Picard and Captain Kirk write about their missions in the Captain’s Log. Gifts such as these DVDs could be accompanied by a Captain’s Log for the child. With GI-Joe or Teen-Age Mutant Ninja Turtles, the child could be given themed notebooks to write or draw battle strategies.

1. Leap Frog or educational video games: One of the games my 10-year-old enjoys is Cooking Momma. In the game, she has to follow directions to create a dish. Encourage the child to write down the ingredients and directions to make the recipe for real and pair it with a gift card to the grocery store and a blank recipe book. A game like Leap Frog Writing is great along with a pack of pencils, pencil sharpener and lined paper.

4. Books: Books alone can be quite a nice gift. Older children are often happy to receive a gift card to a bookstore, getting the opportunity to purchase something they want to read. Younger children, however, bore quickly when given just a book. In my classroom, I encourage dramatic play based on literature by providing props for them to act out the story.

For The Three Little Pigs, I put the story book in a plastic container which contains Styrofoam bricks covered with red felt, yellow raffia for straw and Popsicle sticks for sticks. I also included three paper masks which I painted pink and glued on a snout and pig ears made out of paper. I made a wolf’s mask in similar fashion painted gray. The pupils loved it. Harry Potter books and Diary of a Whimpy Kid books can be made special by giving a potion’s notebook or journal with them. If you’re crafty, make a dramatic play tub to go with your little one’s gift. Re-enactment of the story is not only fun, but increases comprehension; the real reason for reading.

2. Interactive Play: Kids love playing doctor, and one gift can be a bag with supplies inside like an appointment book, blank pad for prescriptions, medicine dropper, Band-Aids, play phone and a little canister with Sweet-Tarts as medicine. This takes the make-believe

Angela V. Clevinger is a certified Reading Specialist who teaches kindergarten at Critzer Elementary School in Pulaski. She serves as President of the Pulaski County Education Association and is the mother of two daughters ~ Emma, 10, and Violet, 3 . She enjoys reading and singing in her spare time.

HOM E

The Not So Old House Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Amodeo Photography

Julie Burger and Benjamin Corl wanted to live in Blacksburg to be close their jobs at Virginia Tech and town amenities. After touring several houses for sale, they settled on a corner lot at Draper and Airport, planted a small vegetable garden and mowed the lawn. No house. Three years later, in August of 2009, they began planning their ideal home with local designer and builder Tom Triplett.

“We wanted to be sure that our house would be compatible with the styles of older homes already in this neighborhood,” says Benjamin, a Maryland transplant who came to Virginia Tech and married a local girl. “The Tudor front entrance is common in the neighborhood, and we contrasted the exterior of the garage with the remainder of the house, similar to neighborhood houses to which garages were added later. Most of the house is brick, and the garage is sided with Hardie plank.”

They broke ground in October, and spent a fair amount

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of time over the coming months shoveling snow. “There was a lot of snow that winter,” Julie explains, “and the house wasn’t under roof for most of it.” They took up residence in July of 2010 and celebrated their first family Christmas that December.

The holiday decorations comprise an eclectic collection of family heirlooms, gifts and ornament souvenirs purchased as mementos on trips to national parks, Quebec and other places.

Julie, a Blacksburg native, made the charming, striped, grosgrain ribbon wreath above the mantle, which frames the crackling wood fireplace. Most of the living room furniture has been handed down and reupholstered along the way. Silver candelabras on the mantle look right at home with sparkling beads, plaid ribbons and an antique oak clock. Everything is a very pleasing mix of old and new and handmade.

Two special nativity sets grace the home throughout the holidays. The Fontanini one in the dining room was collected

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over many years by Benjamin’s grandparents and has more than four dozen pieces. The other nativity scene in the living room builtin bookshelves has been handed down from Julie’s grandparents.

The traditional holiday greens, reds, golds and silver warmly accentuate the home’s interior and furnishings. While the exterior blends comfortably into the older neighborhood, the inside is more contemporary with its open style of kitchen, dining and living space. A cherry corner cupboard from Benjamin’ grandparents NRVMAGAZINE.com

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squeals with glee when she finds it’s been opened, and “the elf” has bitten off a piece.

This not-so-old house holds the charm of yesteryear in design, like having one eating area, all the bedrooms on the second floor and a mudroom between the garage and house. Of course, that used to be between the barn or back kitchen and the house. A nod to contemporary times includes having the laundry on the second floor, a den for reading and office space with a brushed nickel-look, gas fireplace and high quality windows and insulation. It’s a warm, wonderful, welcoming place to enjoy the holidays.

matches a handcrafted dining room set, and art work collected by Julia during her time with the Peace Corps in Bulgaria make the open dining room a delightful place. And just as delightful is the screen porch off the dining room where they spend many meals and family time as weather permits.

The family, which includes two children, gathers each Sunday with an advent wreath in the weeks before Christmas, and a golden elf watches over the dining room during the holidays.

One of the kids sometimes places a Hershey’s kiss in his lap and

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SPOTL I G H T ON R A DF O R D

Eating Out in the River City not River City, Iowa

Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Shanen Photography The crab bisque is sensational (served on most Fridays). The grilled BBQ chicken is tasty. Comfort foods like meatloaf and mac ‘n cheese are made from scratch and deliver on comfort. You can’t go wrong with the pancakes or 3-egg omelets. Anytime. Breakfast served all day. Fresh seafood, oysters and chicken salad are wildly popular.

Adorned with a Gerber daisy or some other colorful, artificial flower, each table sports a wheat field cream tablecloth 34

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along with salt and pepper and sweet packets. Don’t be intimidated by the tablecloth. It raises the bar for expectations of everything that follows, and it doesn’t deter families, workmen, couples, ladies, suits, college kids or any demographic group.

The food brings them in; the tablecloth is simply an attractive and functional amenity.

“We have a very high ceiling in our dining room, so we went with carpet and tablecloths to curb sound reverbera-

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tion,” states Chris Bell, who created the restaurant with his wife, Heather, four years ago. “The materials contribute to the inviting, family-friendly environment.”

Affectionately dubbed the River City for the ancient New River slicing through its boundaries, Radford became a city in 1892. River City Grill is conveniently located at the edge of downtown, diagonally across from a public parking lot and a couple doors from The Green Heron Art Center and Taylor Office Supply.

“We saw a niche in Radford for a family-friendly style restaurant which serves good, made-from-scratch food with high quality ingredients,” says Chris. “Additionally, no one was serving breakfast which paved the way for us to serve breakfast all day.”

River City Grill is an affiliated venue of The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, a 330-mile driving trail of music through the Southwest Virginia mountains. “We showcase local artists on our walls and windows and feature local musicians, especially folk-heritage styles like bluegrass,” states Heather.

Chuck Hussy is the friendly manager, which means he manages, waits tables, pours water, delivers orders, handles customer relations and makes sure everything is in stock and things run smoothly. The food is great; service is attentive without being intrusive; the tablecloths are the icing on the cake. Did I mention the crab bisque? It’s good. Very good.

Other eateries in and around town: Brewin’ Around -- Mochas, lattes and more. Burgers, paninis, pastries. Enticing video at www.brewinaround.net.

BT’s -- Since 1983. Longevity a testament to its appeal. Sunday brunch. Tuesday ladies night.

Hannifan’s BBQ & Grill -- Kudos and BBQ awards, Bailey’s Irish cream cheesecake, s’mores bar dessert and dessert of the week. Hard to choose. Eat one, take one to go.

Macado’s -- Perennial fav for its eclectic decor, awesome sandwiches, cookies.

Rocas Mexican Grill -- South of the border favorites; freshest, most delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine.

Sal’s Italian Ristorante -- Everyone is a member of the family upon entering, small Italian village atmosphere, delicious Italian fare.

Sal’s Jr. -- Created from scratch, never frozen; only tomatoes from Italy will do; local produce; gluten-free pasta and pizza.

Sharkey’s Wing & Rib Joint -- Some of the best ribs in the NRV. Shoot some pool. Eat some wings.

The River Company Restaurant and Brewery -- All natural, aged beef, draft beer brewed on the premises.

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The Thanksgiving Turkey:

Image coutesy of Rankam.com

To Fry or To Bake - That is the Question

By Wes Brandi Deep fryers and fried foods have been around for centuries, but the turkey fryer as part of the Thanksgiving cooking and preparation festivities is the new kid on the block. Because deep frying a turkey is less time-consuming than using a traditional oven or rotisserie grill, and it produces a naturally moist and tasty turkey, many are choosing to reduce the time spent fretting over the cooking, basting, checking and basting again and again.

The first decision in your quest for a fried turkey is determining whether this “turkey fry” will go down inside or out.

I would recommend sticking to the outdoors approach, as it can turn into a rather messy (and potentially destructive) project if it’s your first go at it. Make sure the fryer setting is clear of potential obstacles, such as pine trees, wooden decks, pets and garage roofs, and place the fryer on a level surface. Also have something under the equipment to collect spilled oil.

Not to alarm you, but have a Type B.C. dry chemical fire extinguisher handy in case you need to put out some errant flames. In such an event, turn off the gas at the supply cylinder, and never use water to attempt to extinguish a grease fire. The last thing you want to remember about this fun, frying experience is the everlasting damage that it did to your property, or more importantly, to your integrity among the family and your friends. While turkey frying is not technically a sport, it is interesting to note that several are sold at Sportsmans’s Warehouse in Roanoke.

Next, grab a very large stockpot or a bona fide turkey fryer and roughly four to five gallons of peanut or vegetable oil. Pour the oil into your frying container, but not even to the maximum fill 36

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line. Remember, you have a large turkey to place inside, which will cause the oil to rise significantly. Once the oil is heated to 350 or 400 degrees (depending on your equipment and recipe), s-l-ow-l-y (keyword: s--l--o--w--l--y) lower a completely thawed and seasoned turkey, stuffed or not, into the fryer.

At this point, the turkey may not be totally immersed in the oil which can cause the top part of the breast to remain white through cooking, even though it is cooked to the proper end temperature. This is okay. A turkey in a fryer cooks at about three to four minutes per pound, hence, a 10-pound turkey takes 35 to 45 minutes. In case the unexpected were to occur, it is a good idea not to leave the turkey unattended while cooking, so don’t go sneaking off to watch the football games Set up a TV screen outside before you lower your bird.

When the timer buzzes, turn off the heat source, and let the turkey stand for 20 minutes before removing it. Then, once again s-l-o-w-l-y, lift it from the pot and place it in a pan or on paper towels to drain. And there you have it, a perfectly fried, golden brown, fully-cooked turkey with much less time and effort than past years. That is, of course, if you have followed directions carefully, taken precautions seriously, moved slowly and don’t have the fire department responders as additional guests.

Wesley Brandi is the customer support manager at Heyo in Blacksburg. A Roanoke native, he graduated from Virginia Tech in 2011 with a business management degree, and he’s thinking he might try frying a turkey sometime.

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Who said there’s no such thing as

a free ride?

Virginia Tech students and employees ride free on Blacksburg Transit’s commuter routes. With convenient stops between Christiansburg, Virginia Tech and Blacksburg, BT makes your daily commute carefree and well, cost-free, too.

Visit BTransit.org or call 540-961-1185 for details today.

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HIST ORY

Showcasing Pulaski County History where excellence, vision and pride converge Text by Sheila D. Nelson Photos by Always and Forever Photo

Pulaski County is a rural area of great beauty with four distinct seasons which became the 87th county in the Commonwealth of Virginia on March 30, 1839. It was named in honor of an exiled Polish nobleman who came to America, rose to brigadier-general and chief of cavalry in the Continental Army and was mortally wounded in Savannah in October, 1779, giving his life for America’s freedom.

Count Casimir Pulaski is a fitting namesake for this county which embraces excellence, vision and pride.

The county seat was in Newbern until that courthouse burned in 1893. After a prolonged controversy and final ruling by the State Court of Appeals, the county seat moved to Pulaski. The new courthouse of Peak Creek sandstone featuring Richardsonian Romanesque and Queen Anne architecture was completed in 1896.

The clock and belfry were added in 1911. The entrance is graced by a formal stone arch that was constructed as the entrance to the County’s exhibit at the Jamestown Exposition of 1907.

Named to the National Register in 1981, this building was heavily damaged by fire in December, 1989. The interior was completely reconstructed and re-opened in early 1991. This crowning jewel of downtown Pulaski is not only a majestic stone structure, but also home to a variety of exhibits detailing various aspects of history in the area.

WILDERNESS ROAD REGIONAL MUSEUM Located in historic Newbern and owned and operated by the New River Historical Society, the museum building was originally two separate homes belonging to the Hance-Alexander family. They served dual purposes as residences and businesses including a tavern, general store and Newbern’s first post office.

Built between 1806 and 1812, Henry Hance’s log house is the oldest room in the museum and is connected to Adam Hance’s frame house built more than a century later in 1917. Expansions followed with final additions including a second story made between 1843 and 1846.

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The Virginia Room serves as the archives and library of historical and genealogical books and documents, as well as workspace for those doing research. This sentiment is often shared

by Elinor Farmer, long-time member of the Historical Society and active volunteer at the Museum: “I wish more people were aware of the great treasure of historical and genealogical books and documents here. We have a library, work space and bookstore for genealogical and other research, and the museum archives contain some of the earliest records of Pulaski County.” Farmer is very appreciative of the enormous work in progress under the direction of Tal Stanley, who is cataloging Pulaski County’s court papers.

The six-acre grounds also feature a detached kitchen building, granary, loom house and barn which offer additional glimpses into the lives of those who lived along this main migration route to the west.

RAYMOND F. RATCLIFFE MEMORIAL TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM It was 1984 when Pulaski’s Mayor Ratcliffe began sharing his dream for a museum. He passed away in 1985, and a museum was begun in his memory the following year. Dedicated during the Town’s Centennial, the museum was first located in the basement of the Municipal Building.

In 1994, the Town and private supporters saw the restoration of the Train Depot of 1888, and the museum was moved there. On Nov. 17, 2008, the depot burned, and much of the collection was destroyed. The simultaneous loss of the museum and the depot “could have resulted in amplifying the loss the Town was already enduring due to the departure of its legacy, the textile and furniture industries,” says current Mayor Jeffrey Worrell. “But Pulaski proved to be a resilient community once more by committing energy and resources into restoration and expansion.”

Worrell continued to explain that planning for a new, expanded museum had begun years prior to the tragic fire. The

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WILDERNESS ROAD REGIONAL MUSEUM

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RAYMOND F. RATCLIFFE MEMORIAL TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM

Pulaski County Courthouse Guided or self-guided tour, contact Anthony Akers, (540) 980-7705.

Wilderness Road Museum Visitors and researchers welcome Mon. through Sat., 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Closed from Dec. 15 – March 15. (540) 674-4835.

Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum For information about museum hours, displays, volunteering or participating in the Buy A Brick Program, call (540) 980-2307, 980-4211 or 994-8696.

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Museum Committee, under the leadership of Ratcliffe’s daughter, Betty Lou Ratcliffe Kirkner, had committed literally years to a process that would manifest itself in a new structure.

The fire served as a catalyst and helped lay the foundation of a new building designed by Mayor Ratcliffe’s grandson, Tyler Kirkner. The building, which opened on May 3, 2013, has already hosted thousands of visitors.

There is one particularly extraordinary exhibit: the permanent, public display of an O Gauge model train layout (yes, the train does run!) on an exact scale model, 80 feet long, of the Town of Pulaski circa 1955. This display was built by the late Dr. Milton Brockmeyer and a couple of his friends in his basement across some 40 years.

Because Mayor Ratcliffe was President of the Virginia Municipal League, it is especially fitting that the museum was recently awarded the prestigious 2014 VML Achievement Award for “The Planning, Building, Curating and Opening of the Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum.”

Betty Lou Kirkner remembers fondly her father’s long ago dream ~ “for our town to establish a museum that would remind local citizens who they were and from whence they came. This museum has been my life for so many years.

Daddy would be very pleased and humbled if he could see the museum today.”

Sheila D. Nelson is a native of Pulaski County and freelance writer who especially enjoys promoting her hometown and region.

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GiftGuide

2014 Buying Local

Kent Jewelers

The magnificent green of the emerald is the color of beauty and constant love.

The perfect holiday gift from our exclusive Cherie Dori Designer Collection.

Featuring necklaces, earrings, and rings in the most exquisite collection of gemstone jewelry in Southwest Virginia.

540.552.3241

Mad Dog Located in Downtown Blacksburg, Mad Dog has the best selection of dresses, tops, outerwear, gifts and shoes at the best prices. We’ve been voted the top clothing store in Blacksburg for years running, and have everything you need: clothing for the formal, casual and party girl. Be a Mad Dog girl! Open Monday through Saturday, 11am - 7pm, and Sunday noon - 5pm. Like us on Facebook!

540.961.4038

Blue Ridge Heating and Air The Big Green Egg is a combination grill and smoker available in any size to suit your need. You can pick up yours at Blue RidgeHeating and Air, as well as Big Green Egg charcoal and all the supplies you need to get grilling. Stop by our store at 925 Cambria St. Christiansburg and pick up one for you and your friends!

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Chocolate Spike

Holidays are all about special treats! Chocolate Spike makes everything fresh ~ chocolates, truffles, toffee and Spike’s ultimate fudge. Nice variety of enticing flavors; sugar-free options. One-of-a-kind gifts are easy with a great selection of tins, baskets and boxes filled with your choice of tasty delights! We can create the perfect confections to tickle every candy lover! First & Main Shopping Center.

540.552.4646

P.R. Sturgill

On Christmas morning, let her ears, wrists and neckline shimmer with diamonds as colorful as Bob’s feathers at P.R. Sturgill. Let our beloved bird be the voice on your shoulder reminding you to give the gift of quality jewelry this holiday season. Located at 1037 E. Main Street in Radford.

540.639.6391

Crab Creek Country Store Crab Creek Country Store has a wonderful selection of Willow Tree collectibles, Joan Baker Designs stain glass panels, and more. Find what you need to decorate your home, or find the perfect gift for this holiday season.

Crab Creek Country Store, located at 925 Cambria St. in Christiansburg has got you covered!

540.381.1137

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Buying Local Gift Guide Moda Designs Antiques & More A unique shopping experience with something for everyone!

Furniture, home decor, jewelry, collectibles and much more. New items daily.

Worth the drive through scenic Giles County. We buy, sell and trade. 612 Snidow St., Pembroke 540.626.2575

Star City Greyhound

We offer Live and Fresh Cut Christmas Trees, Handmade Wreaths and Swags. Plus poinsettias just in time to make your Holidays Special.

We can help with answers to all your decorating questions such as what trees are perfect for your home. We are located at 569 N Franklin St., Christiansburg, Beside Kroger.

540.382.6575

Fringe Benefit

Our mission is to educate the public about these wonderful dogs and find them loving, quality forever homes. If you are interested in adopting or sponsoring a “greyt” friend, email: greytlady02@aol.com or call for more information!

You can also find us on Facebook.

540.309.8067

Wrap the woman in your life in style with accessories, jewelry, sweaters, bath products, locally made soaps and lotions and unique gifts, or a gift certificate to Fringe Benefit. Make sure you get exactly what you want by filling out a Fringe Benefit wish list at our store, located at 117 North Main Street in Blacksburg.

540.951.9777

Matrix Gallery

Meredith’s Salon

A great little gallery full of quality American Crafts by local, regional and national artists. Pottery, Glass, Jewelry, Wood, Leather, and more. Beautiful holiday gifts that are functional, decorative, and fun! Located at 115 N. Main St. in Downtown Blacksburg 540.951.3566

Todd’s Jewelry Todd’s Jewelry Repair and Design offers the best prices, excellent quality and fastest service. Todd Ratliff, graduate gemologist and master jeweler offers appraisals, custom design, eye glass repairs, jewelry repairs and a great selection of fine jewelry. Have your rings and watches sized while you wait!

Located in Radford.

540.357.1938

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Christiansburg Garden Center

Meredith’s Salon, the only Redken Elite salon in the area, offers a full line of salon services including color, cuts, highlights, styling, manicures, pedicures, facials and waxing services. We sell Redken, Pureology, Bare Minerals and Rhonda Allison products.

Our talented and trained staff will create the perfect salon experience as your holiday gift to someone special or a treat just for you.

540.381.3050

The pearis Merchantile Located in Downtown Pearisburg, enjoy unique shopping with 35 Artisan Consignors, Anitques, Speciality gifts and ideas plus Seasonal items. A good selection of hiking supplies for the outdoors. Open 7 days with special night hours for the Holidays. Stop by 200 N, Main St. Pearisburg 540.921.2260 Nov/Dec 2014

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Date Night 101 Creative ways to plan a date at home

Family Features Date night doesn’t have to require reservations at an overpriced restaurant or an over-the-top production. You can easily turn your own home into the perfect romantic setting for a special night you both deserve.

Spice up the evening with these exciting and memorable activities you and your significant other can enjoy together in the comfort of your own home.

Create a Wine Bar Add a touch of sophistication by creating a “wine flight” experience with a selection of different varietals to taste. Pair sweet wines (such as Moscato, Late Harvest and Sauternes or some of the fine New River Valley wines) with assortments of nibbles and noshes, such as chocolates, or one of the delicious flavors from Breyers Gelato Indulgences. For red wine varietals (Merlot, Cabernet, Sauvignon),

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have plenty of cheeses and gourmet crackers on hand. Remember, presentation is essential, so break out your best glassware and serving pieces for this intimate tasting for two.

Tip: Intended for adults of drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

It’s the Little Things Having the perfect date night in the comfort of your own home is simple if you add small touches. Print a menu for the evening along with place cards for you and your spouse or significant other listing each other’s best qualities. Capture the mood by crafting the perfect playlist of music during the meal. You want tunes that are easy to talk over so no heavy metal, unless that’s your thing. If that’s the case, rock on.

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Fun “al Fresco” It’s easy to turn your backyard or patio into the best outdoor dining experience in town. By adding small, unique touches to surprise your partner, like a string of lights for some dim lighting or a new tablecloth, the evening will feel special. You can also extend the evening by turning it into a great camping experience.

All you really need is an open mind, a tent, a little bit of backyard space and a double-size down sleeping bag! With the help of a stargazing app, you can catch all the action happening in the sky.

Adults-Only Game Night Take a cue from your kids and have a game night with fun activities that let you laugh out loud, get creative and challenge each other to friendly competition. Charades or interactive games on your tablet help you stay engaged with each other while having fun.

Make It a Classic Film Night Select a timeless, big-screen love story, like “Casablanca,” “Gone With the Wind” or “The Shop Around the Corner” for a classic cinema-inspired experience. Try making a meal to match the movie, such as a Southern feast for “Gone With the Wind” or Moroccan for “Casablanca.” After dinner, dim the lights and cuddle up on the couch with a delicious dessert, such as Breyers Gelato Indulgences. Savor decadent flavors like vanilla caramel, tiramisu, raspberry cheesecake or triple chocolate. For ice cream recipes and information on Breyers Gelato Indulgences, visit www.breyers.com.

Special Occasions at Home Most relationships have milestones and other special events that call for celebration, so why not do so from the comfort and serenity of home? Here are some ways to make those special times even more unique and memorable in 2015.

New Year’s Eve Against the backdrop of bubbling refreshments, and of course a kiss at midnight, create a list of the 10 most memorable moments in 2014, as well as a bucket list of things you want to do in the year ahead.

Valentine’s Day Celebrate this day of love in style. Warm up the oven and create heart-shaped pizzas together with all your favorite toppings.

Serve them as a romantic picnic on the floor, complete with fluffy pillows and blankets.

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Anniversary Order carry-out from an NRV restaurant that holds special meaning for your relationship, such as where you had your first date or the restaurant that catered your wedding. Or create a popular meal from one of your favorite restaurants. Complete the romantic evening by reading old love letters and notes out loud, with your favorite songs or wedding video playing in the background.

Holiday season (you can start right now) Start your own traditions together by baking cookies and sharing your creations on social media with your friends and family. Or choose a handful of holiday movies for an at-home holiday film marathon and share your favorite lines from the movies on your social channels.

What type of date night couple are you?

A wonderful evening together means engaging in activities you both are passionate about. Here are a few of the activities different couples can enjoy based on their passions.

Artsy A quiet outing at the Center for the Arts, checking out the newest exhibit at art venues or listening to a local band are a few of the activities artsy couples enjoy.

Pampering These couples enjoy the finer things in life, such as pedicures, couples massages and other spa treatments. There are several NRV spas that cater to couples.

Outdoorsy Inspired by nature and adventure, this kind of duo enjoys hiking, off-road driving and camping in the great outdoors.

Fitness focused This pair loves to get their heart rates up by engaging in physical activities, such as running, biking or playing sports together.

DIY couple From the perfectly maintained yard to the always updated kitchen, the do-it-yourself couple loves to work on their home or engage in craft projects.

Whatever you choose, make 2015 the Date Night Year of your lives and kindle and rekindle your relationships.

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MONE Y

Year-End Financial Check-Up

Now that another year is ending, it’s a good time to take stock of where you are on your journey toward financial security.

Of course, you could find many different “measuring sticks” to assess your progress, but you can gain considerable information just by asking yourself some basic questions.

• How close am I to my retirement goals? Your comprehensive investment strategy should include a reasonably good estimate of how much money you will need to sustain the retirement lifestyle you envision. At least once a year, evaluate how much closer you are getting to your goals than the year before.

• Am I making sufficient progress toward my goals? When assessing progress, try to determine if your portfolio is properly allocated between stocks, stock-based vehicles, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit and other investments. If you’re “overweighted” in a particular asset class, such as cash, you may be impeding your ability to move toward your goals.

• Am I adhering to my investment strategy? To stick with your investment strategy, you need to invest at regular intervals and meet regularly with a financial professional like an Edward Jones financial advisor to review progress and make adjustments — such as rebalancing your portfolio — when necessary. Of course, even with regular progress reviews and portfolio rebalancing, it can be challenging, psychologically and emotionally, to stick with a plan.

For example, during any year, the financial markets could be down, and your results might be disappointing. Nonetheless, if you have built a diversified portfolio containing quality investments, and 46

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your portfolio is well-suited to your own risk tolerance and time horizon, you don’t necessarily need to make changes following a down year in the markets.

• What aspects of my life have changed during the year? Your investment strategy should be based entirely on your individual needs and circumstances — so if these have changed, you may also have to adjust the way you invest. Consider any and all changes in your life — marriage, new children, divorce, remarriage, new job, new home, etc. — and try to determine what impact these changes might have on your long-term financial plan and what you need to adjust in response.

• Have I changed my thinking on my retirement goals? Over time, you might undergo some changes in your thinking about retirement.

For example, perhaps you’ve decided that you no longer want to retire early and travel the world; instead, you’ve discovered a growing desire to open a small business or do some consulting.

Any significant changes you make to your retirement plan will likely have a big effect on your savings and investment strategies, so you want to incorporate these changes into your planning as soon as possible.

By asking these questions at the end of each year and discussing the answers with a professional financial advisor, you should always have a good sense of where you are in pursuit of long-term goals — and what you need to do to bring the realization of those goals closer to reality.

This article was written by Edward Jones and submitted to New River Valley Magazine by Trevor Gray, one of the NRV’s Edward Jones Financial Advisors.

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