NRV Magazine Jan-Feb 2024

NRV’s Premier Lifestyle Magazine

New River Valley January/February 2024

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10TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP The Look of Love Sat., Feb. 24, 2024 7:30 PM

$25-$65 $10 students with ID and youth 18 and under

PERFORMANCES | EXHIBITIONS | EXPERIENCES

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Federally insured by NCUA.

-SPENCER E. LOWRY VP Blacksburg Retail Market

I have worked in the banking industry in the New River Valley for several years and joined the Freedom First team in 2021. I am excited to continue that journey with my new position at the Credit Union. I am proud to be a part of Freedom First because we measure success by how much we give back to the community.

My goal is to meet my local members’ known and unknown needs to help them grow.

Freedom First Offers:

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Checking, Loans & Lines of Credit Digital Services Business Banking & Private Banking Investing & Wealth

(540) 427-6815 | slowry@freedomfirst.com | 1204 S Main St, Blacksburg, VA 24060

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JANUARY FEBRUARY 2024

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CONTENTS

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PASTUR E TALK

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N ECKLIN E S A N D HE MLI NES 10 OUTDOOR WE DDI NGS 16 AC T IN G B UILDS CON FIDENCE 20 HOME : UN TOUCHE D BY TI ME 2 2 R IDE : 1 9 6 8 CA MERO 28

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WOR LD OF PAT ENTS 32 PAS S ION ATE P IA NI ST 3 4 E MP IR E MI NES 3 6

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FOOD FARE 40

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V T WOME N ' S B - BALL 42

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A DVE RT IS E RS INDEX 46 Jan/Feb

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NEW RIVER VALLEY M

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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

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vickey Lloyd DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Dennis Shelor WRITERS Joanne Anderson Emily Alberts Jo Clark Becky Hepler Nancy Moseley Caitlyn Koser Evan Hull PHOTOGRAPHERS Tom Wallace Christy Wallace Kristie Lea Photography Kevin Riley Madison Underwood Jon Fleming

© 2024 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.

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Pasture Talk

Prior to the invention of the printing press in 1440, books were copied by hand.

The first U.S. magazines were printed by rival newspaper owners Benjamin Franklin and Andrew Bradford in 1741.

Neither publication met with success or lasted more than six months, but the magazine industry was launched. Good Housekeeping was first published in 1885, and National Geographic appeared in 1888. Reader’s Digest came along in 1922, and fast forwarding 84 years, New River Valley Magazine in 2006.

In 2022, 74 new magazines were introduced and you have to love what Maya Angelou once stated: “In a magazine, one can get - from cover to cover - 15 to 20 different ideas about life and how to live it.” Between our wonderful advertisers and professional freelance writers and photographers, I like to think there is an abundance of information to entertain, motivate and educate all readers.

Paper is a biodegradable, renewable and sustainable product made mostly from trees. Working forests are good for the environment, providing clean air, clean water, wildlife habitat and carbon storage.

U.S. paper companies plant far more trees than they harvest. There are 12 million more acres of forest today than there were 20 years ago. According to the U.S. Forest Service, more than 4 million trees are planted every day, 1.7 million of them by the paper and wood products industry. Trees are a crop which can be planted, harvested, replanted and harvested over and over again, sustainability to the max.

Additionally, the forest industry is, according to tgwint.com, “at the top of the list when it comes to on-site electricity generation of any manufacturing sector – the electricity generated by some companies exceeds their usage and can be used to provide supplemental electricity to the power

grid that surrounds the facility.”

We distribute 10,000 copies of each issue all over the New River Valley, so feel free to pick up two copies and give one to a neighbor, friend or colleague. You may not burn many calories turning the pages or sliding a finger across your screen (thinking of a new year’s resolution), but you’ll be amused, charmed and delighted with all we pack into the pages.

Who knew billionaire adventurer and entrepreneur Richard Branson got his start with a magazine? After failing to grow and sell Christmas trees and parakeets, he launched Student early in 1968. His net worth at the end of 1969 was in the neighborhood of £50,000 or roughly $63,000. Today it hovers around $3 billion.

I wanted to be an editor or a journalist. I wasn't really interested in being an entrepreneur, but I soon found I had to become an entrepreneur in order to keep my magazine going. -- Richard Branson Our advertisers remain dedicated to reach out to you in these pages and bring you many of those nifty ideas and info about life – all free to you.

Commit to seek them out for services and products throughout the new year.

We also remain dedicated to very high standards of content and magazine publication, though the billionaire status might be elusive!

Joanne Anderson ManagingEditor

jmawriter@aol.com

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The neckline of the bride’s dress is one of the most prominent visual features, as the human eye is naturally drawn from one's head and face to the shoulder and upper chest region or décolletage. While this can reflect one’s personality, it’s also common for brides to step outside the boundaries of their everyday style, slipping seamlessly, for example, into a one-shoulder design which someone has never worn before.

While a “gown” is defined as a “long, formal dress for a special event,” there are no rules on the length of a wedding dress. The venue, body shape, budget and personal preferences factor into the decision.

The Top Line V-neck. No longer just an Ivy League sweater classic, the V-neck offers comfortable fashion for a sensual bodice with tasteful cleavage.

The lower point on the V naturally introduces the rest of wedding dress to the waist and on down. The wedding gown with a V-neck is the perfect conduit for an exquisite pendant, locket, precious gemstone or heirloom jewelry.

Strapless. The gown held up by the bodice alone connotes risk and sensuality while embracing glamour and elegance. These can be straight across or incorporate a slight V-neck or sweetheart details along the top.

Sweetheart. Gentle arcs across the middle or upper chest above the bust line characterize the charming sweetheart neckline. There may be just two arcs portraying the top of a heart, and this one can be sleeveless or incorporate sleeves, short or long.

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The Top Line and the Bottom Line in

Weddings Gowns necklines and hemlines

Text by Joanne M. Anderson

Square. The bodice straps narrow, wide or medium width - rest at right angles to the straight, horizontal top line for a clean, geometric accent.

One Shoulder. Smooth and sexy is the enchanting allure of one shoulder crossing to the opposite underarm.

Off the Shoulder. Straps rest off the shoulders high on the arms and especially accentuate the collar bone and décolletage.

Scoop. This classic U-shape flatters any bust and can rest high, plunge low or offer a lovely frame for nicely shaped cleavage.

High Neck. Featuring fabric that hugs the neck, this style is classy for its enclosure around the neck, emphasizing the elegance of the neck on the human body.

Bateau. From the French word for "boat", this neckline is akin to a rowboat as viewed from the side and often found in catalogs like L.L. Bean in tee shirt fabric.

Sheer. This neckline comes in multiple styles just above the bust line and displays a sweet lace or sheer fabric above the dress top.

Several considerations are

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in play for the neckline with jewelry being one. The high neck, sheer and one shoulder may not offer the best open collarbone area for sporting a necklace. The neckline may also be dictated by birthmarks or flaws you wish to keep out of photos. Trying on wedding dresses, even ones that don’t immediately catch your eye, is the best way to evaluate how a neckline fits and looks.

The Bottom Line SHORT ~ You can raise the bar on sassy, sexy and saucy by raising the hem. New lines of short 'n chic wedding dresses portray stylish sophistication.

The short gown is great for beach and outdoor weddings. There's no worry about dragging the hemline in the sand, on the grass, picking up mulch tidbits on a pathway or ruining the bottom of your dress. It's chic with a bang and shows off not only your legs, but dreamy shoes, snazzy sandals, new or already-worn-in faves for cowboy boots or any footwear you like. One way to ramp up interest throughout the Big Day is to change your shoes a few times.

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The hemline itself can be an interesting focal point for an asymmetrical line, a lace or fringe edge or an uneven hemline dubbed "up-and-down" in fashion circles. From a form-fitting sheath or A-line to the full circle skirt in the dance finale in "Dirty Dancing", your shortness on the wedding gown hem carries an attitude of confidence and independence, maybe a spot of rebellion. They are also less expensive.

MIDI ~ The tea length or midi gown comes from the turn of the 20th century [before the roaring '20s short styles] when hemlines went up a few inches for afternoon tea and in-home semi-formal day time events. This calfgrazing wedding gown has an allure all its own for being undeniably attractive 12

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while offering practicality, especially for an outdoor wedding. Again, shoes are more visible, and the flash of leg is haltingly sexy.

Audrey Hepburn exuded Hollywood glamour in a midi in the 1954 movie "Roman Holiday," and you can capture star quality as well.

With the midi, a bride is not sacrificing the wedding gown angle, while loving the convenience of dancing unencumbered barefoot.

LONG ~ You simply cannot top the long gown for classic, timeless elegance and the total princess look and feel. Body type, budget and dreams come into play with myriad gowns between the flashy, long sheath like Marilyn Monroe wore when she sang “Happy Birthday, President”

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and the regal, full ballroom gown of Princess Diana. The űber elegance of a long wedding gown radiates gracefulness and enchantment.

When trying on wedding gowns of any style, move your arms, walk around, dance, pick up an imaginary champagne glass, sit in a chair, pretend to eat cake, and twirl like you own the world. Pay attention to the neckline -- does it scrunch? stretch? jab? need adjustment? Will the hemline work where you will be walking and dancing? Consider accessories like scarves, capes, sweaters, jewelry, hats, veils, trains and fancy footwear.

The real bottom line in choosing what you wear for your wedding is that it fits – you, of course, and your budget, your style, your spirit and your dream for this Big Day.

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Celebrations big or small.

Virginia's Mountain Playground is the ultimate destination...

A 1,515 acre mountain top resort for your destination wedding & events. Beautiful overlooks, venue, event hall, lodging & more.

KairosWedding@gmail.com

Located in Glen Lyn, Giles County, Virginia

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Do We Or Don’t We? That is the question. Do we or don’t we … risk having an outdoor wedding?

Pictures of couples exchanging vows overlooking a valley or waterfall are breathtaking, but what isn’t in the picture?

Text by Jo Clark

Saying “I Do” To an Outdoor Wedding Say “I do” to beautiful scenery. The New River Valley has mountains, valleys, rivers, fields and streams.

Finding the perfect location to say “I do” is easy. Outside venues make it simple to accommodate a large number of people. All you need are more folding chairs. Parking is often readily available, or not.

The right location can also mean less decorating.

Think of nature, lots of greenery, and abundant sky, ideally blue. With a breathtaking backdrop, guests will never notice the lack of floral displays. A field of wildflowers could mean no florist bill.

A forest setting provides natural shade and excellent lighting because natural lighting creates stunning photographs. A high sun casts harsh shadows. Aim for late afternoon, especially in the golden glow of sunset. Tent rentals come in many sizes and offer fairly comfortable protection from light rain and hot sun. Very small weddings 16

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might entail a little hike to a creek, a large boulder or open hillside.

I Don’t In the “I don’t” column, you must put bugs, especially mosquitoes, at the top. For many people, mosquitoes await their arrival at the county line. Guests will appreciate a basket with unscented bug-repellant sprays or wipes and fold out or battery-operated fans.

Then, of course, solidly in the “I don’t” column, there’s Mother Nature. The bride and groom’s vision for their wedding day probably includes a bright blue sky with perfect, cotton-candy clouds. Regarding the weather, you must make two plans, just in case.

Shoes belong in this column. Heels may not be a good choice, especially on rainy days. One clever bride’s dad made round wooden stepping-stone-like stands for all the girls, saving their heels from sinking into soft ground January/February

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or sticky Virginia clay. If you get married on soft grass, go barefoot.

Even if the wedding day dawns clear and bright, if it’s been raining significantly, the footing (and parking) may be exceptionally soggy and tricky to keep folding chair legs and heels above ground. Adding chains to pull out cars mired in mud may not enhance the wedding festivities.

One other factor is knowing your own personality type. If you are easily rattled, you spent a small fortune on a wedding gown and want [need!] everything to go exactly as planned, well, then “you don’t” do an outdoor wedding. At least not without a solid back-up plan say 12 feet away.

many say $5,000 can cover the price of a dress, invitations, floral arrangements, photographer and reception for the DIYers at home. While the venue can eat up half a couple’s budget, most of the set-up, tear-down and cart-away work is done by its staff. Additionally, renting everything for your own backyard ceremony can add up mightily once you factor in chairs, tent, tables, dishes, extension cords and add power, lighting, a temporary arbor or gazebo. Even with free labor from relatives and friends, it’s a big undertaking.

Not Everyone is Going To the Chapel — Say “I Do” to an At-Home Wedding

Well, yes, but public isn’t synonymous with free.

The New River Valley is blessed with beautiful Claytor Lake State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Both accommodate weddings, for a fee, with minimal staff or services.

Claytor Lake rents a gazebo on the lake, an inside reception area (ready to double as a rainy-day wedding

Many ceremonies are held outside on private property of the bride, groom or family. The average wedding and reception cost more than $30,000. However, NRVMAGAZINE.com

State and National Parks Are Public, Right?

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venue), a deck and a kitchen. The $740 fee includes setting up chairs, tables and serving stations. All you need is the caterer, food and drink. Historic Howe House is available for the wedding party to change clothes and prepare for the event, but it is still a public restroom.

The stunning Blue Ridge Parkway is technically a national parkway, not a national park, though it is operated by the National Park Service. Weddings are allowed with the proper park permit. Areas aren’t closed off, so hikers may wander through or stop and join the festivities. Some sites, like Mabry’s Mill, are excluded. Nonrefundable application ($60) and administrative ($40) fees are due when the permit is issued.

The permit authorizes two hours for the ceremony.

No reception activity is allowed, so you must move along after sealing those vows with a kiss. Nothing is included but the natural scenery.

Love – Come Rain or Come Shine Legend holds that your marriage will last if it rains on your wedding day. What a fortunate start to a new life together. This may be because it is nearly impossible to untie a wet knot. So, if you “tie the knot” in the rain, your marriage will be equally hard to undo. That won’t make you wish for rain, but it’s nice to know.

Writer Jo Clark has held lots of outdoor birthday celebrations, none of which were rained out. She stays on the go on Instagram @ JoGoesEverywhere. www.HaveGlassWillTravel.com.

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Outdoor Weddings Considerations •

Rent the tent—a clear one (think of those photos)

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Buy umbrellas—clear for the bridal party, and clear or white for all the guests (leave the tags on and keep the receipts for returns after a sunny day).

Again, think of the photos and keep Aunt Madge’s Picasso and Uncle Frank’s gigantic Hokie golfbrella out of the shot.

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Clear or colorful ponchos

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Help-yourself baskets of bug spray, plastic sunglasses, visors, fans, water bottles

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Musician power, temperature control, footing

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Dance “floor”

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First aid kit

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Guest book location

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Throws and light blankets

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Portable restrooms

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Wedding cake location

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Flashlights for walking if after dark

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Signs

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Parking

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Acting Builds Self-Confidence and More

JoELoe Productions brings live arts to NRV's youth

Text by Nancy S. Moseley Photos courtesy of JoELoe Productions It was The Bard himself who penned (quilled?): "All the world's a stage." And never has ol' Shakespeare's singsongy iambic pentameter been more relevant than when applied to children. Of course, children view the world as a stage. They are growing and learning and developing as the lead character in their own story, all while navigating how to "perform" -- for teachers, for parents, for peers, for coaches.

All which makes it the opportune time to introduce theater.

Scholastic.com offers: "Learning from an early age how to cope with performance jitters gives kids a leg up in those big life moments." Not only that, the article continues, but in addition to enhanced self-esteem, confidence and cognitive quick-thinking, playing the role of someone else teaches kids empathy.

Parents.com concurs: "Kids exposed to the theater can better identify with multiple perspectives, thanks to how actors take on roles and a director explains a character's perspective, intention and goal." The article goes on to add that kids who attend live theater learn patience and 20

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concentration. "Contrary to television, which changes images every three to four seconds, theater requires concentration for a sustained period." Quite the opposite from today's thirst for instant gratification.

For Joelle Shenk, creator of JoELoe Productions, it's that a-ha moment in a child's eyes when they feel themselves well up with confidence. "I love the elementary age of 'I’m really nervous, but I can do this' and seeing the light bulb go off and gaining the confidence at that young age," she says. "It's about enabling them with positive energy. I meet them where they are, but I also give them a challenge. 99% of the time the child rises well above the occasion and surprises themselves. It's a beautiful moment to watch."

Along with her sisters, Shenk grew up in Hagerstown, Md., and was homeschooled. Her mother was big believer in learning to work with and perform for all age groups. After high school graduation she joined a professional drama company and traveled for nearly four years to 43 states and five countries. She became trained January/February

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in improv and sketch drama specifically, learning that she wanted to continue performing and work with children.

In 2008, Shenk came to Blacksburg to stay with her sister to self-assess what should come next in her life.

"I started to connect with people in the community and ended up rooting myself here," she relates. She started volunteering, networking and teaching preschool, eventually finding herself in a swirl of things she loves.

Over the years Shenk has built what is now an established (and still growing) portfolio of live art opportunities for the area's kiddos. She offers one-anddone theater workshops on the weekends, semester-long productions, musical theater, improv classes and private lessons for anyone interested, from age 4 to adults. She started the theater program at Christiansburg Middle School, then moved to Blacksburg Middle School to do the same.

She has taught in public schools and overseas, running two theater camps in China for several months each. For adults, she teaches interview preparation, audition preparation, public speaking, and consults on pretty much anything and everything that is asked of her. She listens to the needs of the community and if she can't provide the solution, she brokers the relationship that can. She gets a lot of assistance from past students and cultivates a holistic show by using the strengths of those around her. For example, Virginia Tech fashion and textile students often help with wardrobe.

Shenk writes all her own material, making most performances royalty-free. "I think children give me more energy. This is theater. Yes, there are times to be still. Yes, there are times to be quiet. But then teach them the 'why' NRVMAGAZINE.com

and the 'how'. Teach them how to channel the energy and the loudness. Letting their voices be heard at the right time will serve them well."

In 2024, Shenk plans to add a children's voice acting class and a storytelling class, to teach the art of sketch writing. Personally, she would like to see some of her original work get published, and she would like to grow her own voice acting work. She's voiced animated works, podcasts, commercials and even video games.

"Providing quality is a big thing to me. That it's not just thrown on stage. My main goal is to provide children with quality technique and training." She candidly rolls her eyes at the borderline-cliché productions that cast someone as "Cow #1" who just gets to "moo" once or twice. "I try to give them an opportunity that will stretch them, so they feel like they've gained something."

Shenk concludes: "I have been very blessed to have opportunity after opportunity after opportunity to do what I love, and I am continuing to do what I love. I want to be that person that people can reach out to."

And she may or may not have taught someone who stars in the Avatar movies. (But, shhhhh ... if that gets out, there's is no telling what could come next for her.)

Nancy S. Moseley is a writer from Blacksburg who enrolled her youngest son in one of JoELoe's weekend workshops last month. Fingers-crossed he stars in movies one day, thusly cementing her retirement plan.

www.joeloeproductions.com www.facebook.com/Joeloeproductions joeloeproductions@gmail.com

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NRV H OME

A House Untouched by Time ~ and lots of work!

Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Tom and Christy Wallace Sisters Florence and Mary Heavener lived all their days in the Blacksburg, 2-story, brick house their parents bought and finished in the 1920s. The other nine children of Laurisa and Floyde Heavener flew the coop at some point.

These ladies rented rooms upstairs to college students and tended their vegetable garden until they passed away in 1987 and 1991.

Michael Etzler was one of the college students renting on the second floor beginning in 1984. Becky joined him when they married in 1988, and they loved the historic home and its setting. Michael spoke to their brother Allen Heavener after Mary died about purchasing the property.

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“Numerous family members were part owners, so he had to talk with them to settle on a price,” Michael recalls. “I was fortunate they wanted me to have it, so the old family house would not become an uncared-for rental property.”

The Historic House Michael loves the character of the home. “It was mostly untouched by time with original bathroom fixtures, ceiling lights and hardwood floors,” he relates, noting as well the lack of central heating. When the couple purchased the property in 1992, they went to work upgrading the original

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2024

KNOW THE SIGNS!

SAVE A LIFE SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK

1

Pressure or squeezing in the center of the chest

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Shooting pain through shoulders, arms, neck or jaw

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Dizziness, fainting or sudden abnormal sweating

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Shortness of breath

Heartburn, nausea or indigestion-like pain

Extreme fatigue or exhaustion

* Women may experience signs that may not be as easy to recognize, such as fatigue or feeling flu-like symptoms.

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital’s Chest Pain Center is accredited by the American College of Cardiology.

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!

Always call 911 when you feel any combination of these symptoms. Do not wait or try to drive yourself to the hospital.

Jan/Feb

2 0 2800-422-8482 4 23 | CarilionClinic.org/KnowTheSigns

wiring and plumbing systems. “Some rooms did not have electrical outlets. One of the fuse boxes was outside on the porch. The house was first heated by individual coal stoves, then changed to kerosene stoves most likely in the late 1940s. There was only one stove on the second floor, and I had to go to the basement to fill a 5-gallon can, carry it upstairs and pour it into the tank.”

None of the bedrooms had a closet, so Michael built some using trim wood materials from houses that were being torn down nearby. “One house had the exact same trim, and most people think the work is original.

When remodeling the kitchen, I built upper cabinets like in the original kitchen.”

The Enterprising Etzlers Like many New River Valley residents, Michael and Becky came to Virginia Tech from out of state – he from Pittsburgh and she from Winter Haven, Fla. Both were English majors, so kind of naturally they met in an English class. But it was when Becky was dining out at Hunan 24

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House with her uncle that Michael pulled a creative stunt that may have won her heart.

“I was the waiter, and I put a new fortune in her fortune cookie with a personalized note: ‘Your waiter wants to take you to dinner.’ Becky said the note showed such creativity and initiative that she was impressed. After that, we dated seriously and married a year and a half later at the Virginia Tech War Memorial Chapel.”

Staying in the New River Valley was an easy decision since Becky did not want to live any farther north, and Michael did not want to move any farther south.

Both are English teachers, and Michael is experienced in building design, painting and remodeling.

“The basement is one of my favorite places,” Michael says. “It seems like some barns with everything framed out of oak. It also became one of our son William’s favorite places with the ping pong table his great-grandfather built.” So many hours were spent there that William advanced his game and currently serves as president of the Virginia Tech Table Tennis Club.

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2024

Always a call or click away Call, click or stop by today

Eric Johnsen ChFC® CLU® CASL® LTCP

Agent 2045 N Franklin St Ste C Christiansbrg, VA 24073-1227 Bus: 540-382-5552 eric.johnsen.pibm@statefarm.co ericjohnseninsurance.com

State Farm Bloomington, IL

Meet the Artist

Gallery Open House February 10-11 Saturday 11-3 pm, Sunday 12-3 pm

Spring Together

216 S. Main Street, Kent Square Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 552-6446 blacksburggallery@pbuckleymoss.com

www.pbuckleymoss.com

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One of my favorite things to do is to sit outside in one of the old clawfoot tubs and watch the birds, bees and butterflies as I cool off from a day of gardening.

– Michael Etzler

The Glorious Gardens There are few words that can adequately describe the stunning gardens that Michael has created and nurtured across more than 30 years. He estimates more than 50 varieties of trees and shrubs, 150 different flowers and more than two dozen vegetables.

“Florence and Mary had a sizable vegetable garden. They would can vegetables and store potatoes in the basement. As they grew older, the garden became smaller, and Mary tended it after her sister died. Our first summer as homeowners, I dug up the previous year's rectangular garden area with a shovel.”

Each year Michael has added grass pathways to help stop erosion and differently-shaped garden plots for artistic interest. “I planted trees, added flower beds and built a water garden and now, the entire yard is full of garden plots and trees.” Though the property is just slightly under one-half acre, it feels almost larger than life wandering among the corn and tall lilies, immersed in myriad colors, sizes and textures of the plants.

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Arranging flowers is a hobby, and I have vases of all shapes and colors to match the flowers available on any given day.

Many of the flowers Michael plants are chosen based on long vase life. – Becky Etzler

When Michael was a child, his father gave him and his brothers each a small plot to grow what they wanted, and he had many relatives who enjoyed gardening. “All my grandparents had extensive vegetable and fruit gardens, though I am more of a garden appreciator than a gardener myself,” Becky adds..

“When we moved into the house I wanted to continue the Heavener tradition of having a garden in the backyard,” he explains. “It seemed like part of the property.

The idea of growing my own food free of chemicals also appealed to me. I could not live this close to town without the wonderfully secluded backyard. I have planted everything that grows here now, and I find great peace and joy walking around the yard.”

The couple loves living in history. Becky is enamored with the architecture and small nostalgic touches from childhood days on her mother’s family farm like porcelain door knobs and fetching potatoes from the basement. Michael added the sunroom with views over the gardens in 2013, and he’d like to add a screened porch along the back. “At this point, however, I’m ready to enjoy all the work I’ve done!”

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2024

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A Pal on Wheels

F

Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Tom and Christy Wallace

For the communications technology buffs among

New River Valley Magazine readers, the first time that 14

Mustang.

Tommy Gautier of Giles County bought this

cities were connected via telephone lines was June 28,

“lightning yellow” (a Ford color, by the way) 1968 SS Camaro

enthusiasts, the press conference was held to announce

“and I loved this car because it was a total off-frame

1966, at the Statler-Hilton Hotel in Detroit. For automotive Chevrolet’s answer to the wild popularity of Ford’s mustang, launched two years earlier. Drum roll ~ the Camaro.

Two executives at Chevrolet found the name in a

French-English dictionary, noting it is slang for “friend, pal

or comrade.” It works because everyone knows a car can be your best friend when you want to go somewhere, like

late in 2022. “I always wanted a Camaro SS,” he explains, restoration. Everything was replaced with new parts.” The motor is a Chevrolet 383 Stroke 400 HP which had only 150

miles on the restoration. “I put about 1,000 miles on it going

to shows and parades. And I added new aluminum wheels and put on new tires.”

The first generation of Camaros were the Super

a pal on wheels. The Camaro went on sale in September

Sport (SS), Rally Sport (RS) and high-performance Z/28

conventional rear-drive, front-engine configuration as the

racing the Trans Am. From 1970 to 1981, the Camaro became

for the 1967 model year, promoting its having the same

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which came with the V8 engine originally produced for

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larger and wider. Both the RS and SS versions were dropped

Lucio Tan, Filipino business magnate, investor and

and re-introduced in 1996. The storied history continues to

philanthropist, is credited with saying: “Everything is for sale

every 10 years.

for Tommy Gautier to part with his 1968 SS Camaro with its

evolve with styling and technology modifications about In 2010, Camaro was cited as the World Car Design

of the Year, and the following year, it was available with

if the price is right.” And along came the r.i.g.h.t. p.r.i.c.e. shiny new aluminum wheels and Ford color.

Chevrolet announced in March of last year that

a convertible top. In 2012, Camaro celebrated its 45th

Camaro production will cease in January 2024, like now.

2016, it was “Car of the Year” by Motor Trend. The car has

not the end of Camaro’s story.”

anniversary, though it was not in continuous production. In a good reputation for reliability and serves many as a fun daily drive.

The Camaro is also a favorite racing car, though

Gautier wouldn’t have dreamed of taking his 1968 true SS model on any track. Upon buying the vehicle, he was given documentation which included the build sheet from

Sales have declined, but the company states: “This is the

Nathaniel Ehinger, automotive writer and staff writer for motorbiscuit.com, observes: If you drive this car for fun and don’t have a smile plastered on your face, you’re doing it wrong.

Chevrolet, the Protect-O-Plate booklet and business card of the original salesman.

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The Legal World of Patents

Ashley Gates, Michele Mayberry, Grant Brewer

Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos by Jon Fleming People who love what they do at work, often do the same thing at play. It’s the classic busman’s holiday, i.e., where the bus driver goes on a bus tour for vacation.

Local patent attorney Michele Mayberry loves wandering in antique shops looking for old items marked with a patent number. “I find it interesting to look up the patent number and compare the patent claims with what was actually sold (i.e., commercial embodiment) to confirm whether the product is covered by the patent,” she relates.

She has collected things like patented teapots, folding chairs and corn muffin pans.

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There are two types of patent practitioners - patent attorney or patent agent. Both typically have at least a bachelor's degree in science. Once they have passed the patent bar, which is the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office® [USPTO] exam, either an agent or attorney can represent clients in the process of obtaining a U.S. patent, i.e., “patent prosecution” or the interactive process of filing, arguing for and obtaining a patent. Only attorneys, however, can litigate or enforce patents in court for having a juris doctor degree and passing a state bar.

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Intellectual Property Protection Intellectual property (IP) includes patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.

“Some inventions qualify for more than one type of protection,” Mayberry explains. “For example, inventions involving software (although not software itself) can be patented, and the software itself can be protected with a copyright. Lego® not only has a design patent on their minifigures, but also a 3D trademark.”

A common misconception is that a patent comes with the right to make a certain product and insulates the maker from infringing other patents. However, the patent system is based on the concept of quid pro quo, wherein the inventor discloses their invention to the public in exchange for being able to exclude others from making the invention for 20 years. In essence, for a period of two decades, the patent owner has the power to stop others from making a competing product if that product infringes on their patent.

“Although the written description and figures are important parts of a patent,” Mayberry continues, “the ‘claims’ appearing at the end of the patent outline the IP property right, much like a survey does for a plat of land.

A patent attorney works with the client to identify features of the invention that render it, as a whole, both novel and not obvious over technology to date or ‘prior art.’ The claims are then crafted in a manner to maximize success in patent eligibility and patentability, while minimizing the risk of invalidation or unenforceability.”

A patent attorney’s knowledge and experience are valuable in the wording of the claims. Where some of us might consider it splitting hairs, the courts look for very specific descriptions. Every word in a claim is important. The U.S. Supreme Court has noted that the distinction is more than just semantic in nature, as ‘words are how the law constrains power.’”

On a Personal Note Mayberry says she naturally gravitated toward smalltown life having warm memories of her early childhood in the small town of Franklin, N.H. “I loved never having to lock the doors, walking to the lake and exploring the woods, river and dam in our backyard.” She graduated from high school in McLean, Va., and earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from George Mason University.

Although the middle of five girls, her sisters, older and younger, have served as wonderful role models. One of them suggested she [Michele] take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) when she [the sister] was taking it. Mayberry completed her law degree at The George Washington University Law School.

The family moved to the New River Valley in 2006 in response to their search for “a great place to raise our kids in a town that has the best of both worlds - alive (for the kids), yet peaceful (for the parents).” She opened her law firm four years later once she had confirmed the need for a local NRVMAGAZINE.com

patent attorney to support the entrepreneurial community and to satiate her own entrepreneurial spirit.

Mayberry has been involved in an impressive scientific range of patent cases, including cosmetics; drugs for treating atrial fibrillation [AFib] and Alzheimer’s; medical devices like hip implants and dental flossers; systems for 3D printers of human cells and of metals; and electricalenergy based treatments for cancer. She has participated in patent work for calcium-fortified orange juice, plants, power converters, methods of making hypoallergenic cats and more.

The work is so fascinating that Michele Mayberry continues to find old treasures with patent markings to take home and evaluate the patent details. Her version of the busman’s holiday.

Becoming a lawyer seemed like an excellent way to merge my love for writing and for chemistry. I get so much energy from living vicariously through my clients, especially the startups and small businesses and am honored to witness their growth, some all the way from just an idea to an initial public offering or IPO.

Michele Mayberry encourages those who might just be getting started with patents to visit the University Libraries at Virginia Tech, in person or online at https:// guides.lib.vt.edu/ptrc. It is designated as a Patent and Trademark Resource Center by the USPTO, the only one in Virginia.

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The Passionate Pianist and Composer Text by Caitlyn Koser Photos courtesy of Joey Morgan Harrington

For many of us, music is a balm to the soul. We tear up at stirring renditions of Taps, marvel at the gift of an incredible orchestra, or listen in wonder as a soloist captures the audience within the first few notes of a concerto. Pianists and music enthusiasts, however, can agree on one thing — causing emotions within the hearts of an audience doesn’t happen overnight.

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For Joey Morgan Harrington, a New River Valley pianist and composer, a lifetime of painstaking practice and dedication has brought him to a well-worth-it career doing what he loves. He is the organist for the Presbyterian Church of Radford, as well as a pianist and composer who delights in his work and aspires to connect generations through his music.

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“I started taking piano lessons in first grade and then dabbled in drums,” he recalls. “I transitioned to the guitar in middle school.” He circled back to piano in high school, and apparently, that choice was the perfect instrument for his musical journey.

From elementary school, Harrington delved into music and began to collect it, downloading music onto some early streaming services like LimeWire and Napster. Harrington

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fondly remembers that he thinks he crashed the family computer while doing so. His curiosity would benefit him later on down the road, however, and that crashed computer was one step of his journey to where he is now.

Performance Overview Laying a foundation early in his life was key in the success of his present career.

The life of performing, however, comes with its own share of challenges. The performance he’s most proud of took place recently at the Street and Davis Performance Hall in the Moss Arts Center. “It was the culmination of all the new music I had composed over the last six months, and because of the performance, I realized a few pivotal things about my musical journey,” he says. Harrington recognized that by blurring the boundaries of genre and category, composing and performing has a more freeing element to it.

His audience is first in his mind as he plays, and Harrington pays close attention to keeping everyone completely immersed in his performance. For example, he went beyond his fingers gliding on the keyboard and brought people into the experience with lighting and staging carefully thought through and planned in advance.

When asked what his favorite style of music is, Harrington replies that he doesn’t have one. Part of his vision as a pianist and composer is to blur boundaries between typical categories, and he listens to various types of music for different reasons.

Weddings brings their own set of challenging aspects. Again, Harrington keeps the people he’s serving in mind, trying to familiarize NRVMAGAZINE.com

himself with the layout of the wedding venue ahead of time in order for the performance to go smoothly. He reviews technical details so that the married couple has one less thing to worry about. “The less questions I have to ask when I arrive, the more it puts everyone at ease,” Harrington states.

If he’s playing for the reception, he keeps in mind that here the focus is not on him as a performer, which is completely different from an event where he and his piano are in the spotlight. Harrington incorporates the vision of the married couple and creates an inviting atmosphere for guests in order for the reception to go smoothly.

Weddings may be formidable, but Harrington says the most difficult part of his career is managing the business side. All is not just what people see on the stage by far. He is his own accountant, social media manager and booking agent. “Each artist has their own unique path.

There’s not a blueprint to follow,” he explains.

On the other hand, one thing Harrington, 31, loves about his livelihood is the genealogical aspect of it. “I see music as a language which can be passed down in a variety of ways – from a student-teacher relationship, an apprenticeship, any opportunity where music is shared from musician to musician. I really love the connection between generations.”

Musical Connections In addition to piano, Harrington still plays the guitar and dabbles with drums. In his free time, the pianist enjoys board games, his two cats, and paddling on the New River.

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His advice for the aspiring pianist? “Seek out other pianists and musicians. We’re all on this musical adventure, and building community is a great way to make your love of piano a lifelong pursuit.”

Harrington’s mission as a pianist and composer is intertwined greatly with service. Whether that’s making sure things go smoothly at a wedding or reception or immersing the audience in his performances in any way he can, Harrington has found an effective way to balance the spotlight and the audience.

“I try to breathe my own life into music that is familiar to different audiences,” Harrington shares. His goals vividly intertwine focus on the audience and a respect for the music that he has the honor of playing.

And to him, his career is merely a continuation of a passion for what he loves.

Caitlyn Koser is a New River Valley homeschool student and freelance writer who has been taking piano lessons for three years. She much prefers composing with words instead of musical notes and hopes to one day make a career as an author.

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Rediscovering Binktom and the Empire Mines

A powder house constructed in 1919 on Michael Mooney’s property where Binktom once stood.

Text and photos by Evan Hull Deep in the New River Valley, whispers can be heard echoing off the mountains from the lost town of Binktom and the Empire Mines. “The stories of Binktom and the Empire Mines are important,” states Michael Mooney, son of late Binktom miner, Green Mooney. “I want to pass the history down to my son so that he can pass it down through the family.”

Binktom was a thriving community of coal miners and their families on the south slope of Little Walker Mountain in Pulaski County. The town’s existence was heavily dependent on Empire Mines, started in 1914, from which thousands of tons of coal were removed during Binktom’s heyday in the 1920s.

According to maps in the Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum in downtown Pulaski and former tenants of Binktom, the majority of the mining community stood near the intersection between Mines Road 36

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and Langhorne Road. Maps indicate that the town stretched down the mountain along present day North Ridge Lane.

Binktom was a town with above average living conditions for the time and place.

“We fared okay when we lived there,” relates Verlon Hurd, former Binktom resident and older sister of Michael Mooney. “We had enough to eat and stayed warm. The conditions weren’t outstanding, but nowhere else had outstanding living conditions back then.” A 1925 industrial survey of the Empire Anthracite Coal Company shows that Binktom had 55 houses, describing them as “comfortable, well built, and much superior to usual mining camp dwellings.” In a 2007 book by late historian Lloyd Matthews titled “Pulaski County: An Historic and Descriptive Sketch,” Binktom dwellings were noted as having been supported by frame columns, under which fresh air could circulate.

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An exhibit on Binktom and the Empire Mines at the Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum.

Additional structures allowed the community to operate like a small town. “Binktom had stores for groceries,” Hurd recalls. The industrial survey detailed a “well-managed commissary” which carried “all living necessities for the miners and their families.” The survey claimed that goods were marked up an average of 20 percent.

Matthews’ book details a different picture, stating that the store offered “ordinary staple foods such as sugar, flour, fatback and potatoes” at extremely high prices. Since the store was owned by the mining company, purchases were charged to miners’ weekly pay. This meant that miners might not receive pay unless they had an unusually successful week.

However, work at the Empire Mines had some advantages. Miners earned an average of 55 cents per hour or $1 per coal car of 1.7 tons. In 1925, $1 was roughly equivalent to $17.78 now and was high pay compared to other mining districts.

Workers like Green Mooney held other positions which were paid based on performance. “Dad would calculate how much coal was in the carts,” Hurd explains. “He kept the records for coal and counted the carts.”

Alongside the mines, the railroad was an important asset that catalyzed the county’s success, connecting industry downtown to the mountains. The Altoona Railroad, constructed in 1880, ran from downtown Pulaski, across present day Robinson Tract, and toward the coal seams in Little Walker Mountain. This extension connected itself to Norfolk and Western’s Virginia-Tennessee railroad. The Town of Pulaski incorporated in 1886 and proved to be a hub for industry and commerce throughout the following century.

The years 1923 and 1924 were highly successful for the Empire Mines. Around 600 tons of high-rank Virginia semi-anthracite coal was extracted each day. Yearly coal sales 38

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in 1923 reached a total of $455,874 for 97,209 tons. Similar numbers were produced in 1924 with 124,240 tons bringing $423,075.

Questionable business dealings and frequent management changes led the Empire Mines to bankruptcy in 1927. The Southwest Times, Pulaski’s local newspaper, reported that the Empire Mines had debts of approximately $1.2 million. In 1930, a shareholder of the Empire Mines chartered a new coal company, following a legal battle to regain rights to the Empire Mines premises.

According to Matthews’ book, the Empire Mines reportedly closed for good in 1938 after successfully operating eight more years. However, this date does not match Hurd’s claim that she lived in Binktom until she was six. This would mean the mines closed in 1943. When the Empire Mines officially shut down, the town of Binktom went with it. Hurd’s family was forced to move to Robinson Tract while equipment from the Empire Mines was removed and the entire town was bulldozed.

Some evidence of the Empire Mines’ existence is still visible on Little Walker Mountain, like a small powder house constructed in 1919. Several mine entrances exist but are not accessible. Concrete foundations of the Altoona Railroad still lie below the high ridges at the foot of the mountain.

Binktom and the Empire Mines are one example of many lost mining communities that once flourished in southwest Virginia and across Appalachia. Some of these towns will never have their stories told as the people who inhabited them are aging. Unfortunately, it is likely that towns similar to Binktom, once teeming with life, will forever remain silent and still.

Evan Hull is a local journalist from Pulaski County and a student at Virginia Tech.

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CONTACT US LET’S WORK TOGETHER

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Got an idea for an impactful design, or a dream of 540.553.8143 compelling communications for your brand? Let’s connect to see o &oba can elp

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N RV Fo o d Far e

Greece

“There’s nothing like my mom’s special recipes,” states Blacksburg resident Jim Krouscas. “Her Tiropita is a staple year-round and can also serve an appetizer.

The flaky, buttery, phyllo is delicious. When she visits Blacksburg, she makes extra because it freezes well, and we eat it at her home in Greece in the summer.”

Greece has contributed mightily to the modern world, from the alphabet, democracy, the Olympics and libraries to trial by jury, theater, architecture and the ever-valuable-to-mariners lighthouse. Culinary endeavors which come out of Greek culture are incredibly tasty, healthy, flavorful and uniquely yummy.

But perhaps equally as yummy is the Greek’s penchant for socializing around food. The Greek historian and biographer Plutarch [circa AD46 – AD 119 or later] stated: We do not sit at the table to eat … but to eat together”

So, of course, if heavy socializing is involved, which includes people, the food must be outstanding. It can carry the experience should the conversation take a dive into controversial intellectual topics of ancient Greece or contemporary civilization.

Recipes courtesy of Jill Krouscas via Jim’s mom Vula

• • • • • •

8 oz feta cheese, crumbled 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 8 oz cottage cheese 2 eggs, minus one yolk ½ cup butter, melt as needed ½ lb Phyllo dough Generously butter a 9”x 13” dish. Lay out phyllo dough on counter, covered with a slightly damp dish towel to prevent drying out.

Mix all cheeses and eggs.

Melt butter. Place two sheets of Phyllo in the casserole dish and brush with butter. Repeat this process 3 more

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Tiropita

times. It’s okay if sheets go up the sides. Simply be sure to brush the phyllo with butter each time.

Spread the cheese mixture on top and add two more sheets of phyllo.

Brush phyllo with melted butter. Repeat 3 more times. Brush top layer with butter folding down any phyllo that may be going up the sides, making sure to use melted butter to hold them down.

With a sharp knife, cut the tiropita into 12 large squares using an up and down motion verses slicing.

Slicing will tear the phyllo. If it tears,

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(Greek Cheese Pie) simply brush melted butter onto the tear to fix. Brush melted butter on the cut marks.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. The top should be golden brown.

Note: Feel free to add more layers of phyllo if you like. You can cut the phyllo into 4-inch wide strips and place a spoonful of cheese mixture at one end of the dough. Then fold the phyllo as one folds a flag. The result is a triangle-shaped appetizer.

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• • • • • • • • • • •

Melopita Sifnou

1 cup oil 5 eggs 1 cup white sugar 1 cup brown sugar 2 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 cup milk Juice from ½ lemon 2 cups flour 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

(Greek Honey Cake)

Squeeze lemon in milk. In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients.

Add flour and milk alternately, then nuts. Bake in greased and floured 9” x 13” pan at 325° for 35 – 40 minutes. When cool, cut in diamond-shape pieces. Poke holes all through cake with toothpick and pour hot honey syrup over all.

Honey Syrup • ¾ cup honey • ¼ cup sugar • 1 cup water • 1 Tbl lemon juice

Combine all ingredients in saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil 5 minutes stirring constantly. Pour over cooled cake. Top with pistachio pieces.

Of the many Greek desserts Jim enjoyed as a child, baklava may top the list. “But that recipe truly takes her special touch,” he reveals. “She can quickly put together this much-loved honey cake any day.”

Here are some wonderful Greek food ideas for winter (or any time). Remember to invite people. It’s a Greek-inspired social event ~ with phenomenal food! And probably some lively conversation. να περάσεις καλά … Enjoy Yourself!

• Baklava, a sweet, well-known dessert • Moussaka, hearty comfort food

• Gyros or souvlaki, make some or buy a few at Souvlaki • Rizogalo, light, creamy, gluten-free rice pudding • Saganaki, delectable appetizer

Jim Krouscas and his mother Vula on the island of Thasos, Greece

• Spanakopita, classic spinach pie • Dolmades, stuffed grape leaves NRVMAGAZINE.com

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“Our” Team in Our Town Virginia Tech women's basketball woos the New River Valley

Text by Nancy S. Moseley Photos by Jon Fleming, Tech Sideline It's late January 2023, a year ago. After three solid conference wins against Louisville, Pitt and Wake Forest, the #12 Virginia Tech women's basketball team heads south to face #16 Duke. Center Elizabeth Kitley goes into the game as ACC's player of the week after posting a season-high 28 points against Wake. Point guard Georgia Amoore sunk five threes that same game, and Taylor Soule celebrated double digits as well. But back to that Duke game ... the Hokies lose.

Thankfully, it would be their last loss for quite a while, including a sweet 61-45 homecourt revenge against Duke, a buzzer-beater win against North Carolina, and a fast ride into ACC Tournament territory, beating Louisville for the championship trophy, an historical program first. Come early 42

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March, headlines announced the Lady Hokies landed the #1 seed in "The Big Dance." Another program first.

But ... this is not a sports article. It's a love story, between a coach and a team and a team and a town.

Somewhere in all the records, recognitions, rebounds and titles, we started paying attention. And like someone with a palpitating teenage crush, we couldn't wait to see them again.

"Little by little we would see the crowds grow. More and more people wanted to get a piece of us to see what this Virginia Tech team was all about. Then we continued to win and win, and we were winning in a fashion that was very entertaining. It's a really exciting, really fun brand of

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basketball," head coach Kenny Brooks says of early 2023, when the regular-season energy started to shift to something bigger.

Guard Cayla King adds: "We lost to Duke the first time, but the second time we tromped them. The in-team energy changed, then the crowd grew."

The Town of Blacksburg and outlying fans were suddenly fully engaged and invested. Not only were we paying attention, but we were hosting watch parties, referencing players on a first-name basis, and recalling specific plays around the company coffee station. We were giddy for a chance selfie.

"When we got to the NCAA tournament, we started to cross paths with ESPN TV personalities. I remember they asked: 'What are you most excited about?'. My response: 'Now the whole world gets to see who we are'," Brooks recalls. "And I was excited because of the grace we play with.

Everyone would see their personalities and who they are as people. I think Hokie Nation and lots of people across the

country have gotten to know them, so they became human."

Point guard Georgia Amoore recalls: "It was great when we came home [from the ACC Championship], pulling into Hahn and all the people so happy and celebrating us because we came home on a win. But even after the Final Four when we came home on a loss, we still felt like we won something because of the support. The turnout was unreal."

"We are a family," Brooks states. "It doesn't matter what your role is, you have a responsibility in this program to treat it like a family. I have a relationship with each and every one, I know their families and their pets. The kids really are conditioned, because they're so close, to celebrate each other's successes."

Amoore emphasizes the importance of pushing confidence, both in yourself and your teammates. Good days, bad days, wins and losses come and go, but if the one constant is your teammates, life is a lot easier.

"One thing I hear people say is they can see our chemistry on the court, especially through the tournament Continued on page 46

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run last year,” King offers. “It was about more than just basketball, we care deeply for each other. And when you have it off the court, it's easy to have it on the court."

Then it was summer break and we followed the team on social media, anxious for that small-town fandom turned big-time stardom to come back for the '23-24 season.

"Last year was very special. We were 31-5. And this year is not a failure if we go 30-6. It shows you how special last year was, and this year will be this year," Brooks shares.

According to King, there are many new people. “We're seeing them get comfortable. I think we can go back to where we were last year but it's not going to happen overnight. I'm excited for the new ones to feel like they're flowing in our system."

Maybe it's because they don't just belong to Virginia Tech, they belong to Blacksburg. They belong to every little girl who sits in the stands with an orange and maroon pom-pom, cheering for a chance on the jumbotron. They belong to middle and high school basketball players settling into their potential.

They belong to downtown Joe's Diner, to Claytor Lake, to the UCB Kroger, to Christiansburg's Target.

"Our team has that sincere care for the community. We value relationships. You can bring people to games if they have some connection, and they feel like you care about them just as much as they care about you," Amoore relates of life in the New River Valley.

For coaches everywhere, it's difficult. When asked to recall a certain team, a year, a record, it's nearly impossible. The teams and seasons bleed together to become one long, tenured career. "But when someone asks me about 'that team you had in '23'," Brooks concludes, "I'll remember every little detail because I allowed myself to enjoy what was going on, to 'stop and smell the roses' and appreciate every step of the journey."

We're sure to remember this one, too, because the journey started here, in our town. And - as the saying goes - we are grateful to have loved at all.

Nancy S. Moseley is Blacksburg-based writer. To say she was starstruck during interviews is a gross understatement. Who needs the magic of Hollywood when you have the magic of collegiate sports in Blacksburg?

Virginia Tech Women's Basketball 2024 Youth Team Days The purchase of one adult ticket = bottomless complimentary youth tickets for age 13 and under January 7 vs. N.C. State January 21 vs. Clemson February 11 vs. Boston College February 25 vs. North Carolina

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A-1 Heating & Cooling

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Allure Spa

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Anne Collins Albimino

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Beliveau Farm

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Blacksburg Battles Cancer

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Celco Community Credit Union

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Dehart Tile & Flooring Center

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Energy Check

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Eric Johnsen State Farm

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Freedom First

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Giles County Tourism

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Goldsmith Design, Build

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Joba Designs

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Kairos Resort

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Kesler Contracting

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Long & Foster Blacksburg

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Macado's

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Matrix Gallery

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Member One FCU

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Mike Weber

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Mitchell Law Firm

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Moss Arts Center

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Mountain Lake Lodge

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New River Art & Fiber

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NRV Intellectual Property Law

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P Buckley Moss Gallery

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Progress Street Builders

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Shelter Alternatives

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Star City Greyhounds

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Sunshine Tours

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Building Relationships One House at a Time What our Clients are saying: “If you are looking for a realtor who will truly prioritize your needs and deliver outstanding results, look no further than Anne Collins Albimino. From start to finish Anne Collins demonstrated professionalism, attention to details and genuine commitment to helping us find the perfect home... What sets Anne Collins apart is her exceptional communication skills. In conclusion, we wholeheartedly recommend Anne Collins Albimino to anyone in need of a real estate professional!”

"Rayne was an outstanding individual to work with. I would highly recommend her. She was incredibly professional and responsive. She took the time to consider everything affecting my personal life to accommodate the sale of my home. She is amazing."

“We cannot say enough good things about our experience with Anne Collins. Anne Collins expertly guided us to find the perfect property at the right price. Her magnanimous nature and kind heart ensured that every time we interacted with anyone and told them that we were working with Anne Collins, they smiled broadly and shared a story about how incredible she is. The whole of the New River Valley seems to know and love Anne Collins, and we are so fortunate that we can say we also know and love her now.”

“STOP LOOKING NOW AND USE RAYNE!!!!!! She is amazing! She was so patient, kind, thorough, expert and more than we could have ever asked for! She knows the area incredibly well as well as the other agents and the market. Rayne is on the ball at all times! Look no further - Rayne is the answer to ANY of your real estate needs!”

Anne Collins Albimino, Realtor® | 540.239.3246 | ac.albimino@nestrealty.com Rayne Stenger, Realtor® | 540.641.4006 | rayne.stenger@nestrealty.com