AKER
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011
SMITH MOUNTAIN
magazine
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
g n i t a r b e l C e t the lake! a e d a c e d a
R MOST TEN OF OU S LE STORIE MEMORAB L WINNERS M S F O T S BE ND WEDDING A UIDES LODGING G
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
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Offering a full range of services to the SML community for 21 years.
Building Healthy Smiles Located next to Dairy Queen l Scruggs Rd., Moneta, VA
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
NEW PATIENTS ARE WELCOME
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Contents
Smith Mountain Laker Magazine | January/February 2011 8 Publisher’s Note 10 Take the Laker With You
Shorelines
12 Lake Homes • Bill and Anneliese Piatt used nature as the canvas for their efficient lakefront home 18 Lake & Garden • A steep slope was no obstacle for one couple’s desire for a lakeside waterfall 23 Anniversary Feature • A look back at some of our most memorable stories of the past decade 32 Profile • 10 questions with Laker Magazine founder Micah Gaudio 37 Best of SML Awards • Reader favorites revealed for 2011!
45
Special Sections
45 Wedding Guide • Lake weddings in all four seasons, plus our handy listing of local vendors 71 Lodging Guide • Your complete resource for SML accommodations
Savor
60 Restaurants • Authentico! Tuscan Tavern adds a little spice to the Smith Mountain Lake dining scene
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BRUARY 2011 JANUARY/FE
INLAKE.COM SMITHMOUNTA
ating C e l e bt thre lake! ST OUR MO TEN OF STORIES RABLE S MEMO NNER SML WI D ING AN S WEDD IDE ING GU LODG
Social Seen
78 Out & About • A collection of photos from SML holiday events
magazine
OF BEST
76 Calendar • Best bets for events in January and February, including the Southwest Virginia Boat & RV Show
ITH MOUNTAIN
de a a deca
64 Spirits • Gordon Kendall shares 10 ideas to try in the new year
ON THE COVER An aerial view of Smith Mountain Lake. Photo by Eric Hill. Real estate cover photo by Pete Luce, infocus-photo.com.
84 Laker Map • Locator map and advertiser index
Results on Page 37!
Laker Real Estate
On the Flip • Turn your Laker over to find homes for sale in and around the lake region
Join the Laker community online at smithmountainlake.com or become a fan on Facebook! SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
7
publisher’s note
January/February 2011
In case you missed
our not-so-subtle cover, this publication will mark a major milestone in 2011 – a decade of bringing you the best of Smith Mountain Lake. It’s definitely a reason to celebrate and reflect. After all, the magazine and the lake have changed significantly over the past decade. Our editorial staff considered producing a single anniversary issue, but ultimately decided to mark the occasion with special content throughout 2011. So each issue this year will feature stories (denoted with the special logo below) reflecting back on the people, places and events that have shaped the lake and the Laker. In this issue, that includes a feature on 10 of our most memorable stories (page 23) and a Q&A with Laker founder and former publisher Micah Gaudio (page 32). Expanded content will be available online at smithmoutainlake.com/10. When I took over as publisher nearly four years ago, I pledged to readers and advertisers to uphold the magazine’s high standards. Throughout the transition and some pretty tough economic times, I think we’ve succeeded. Having editor Andie Gibson, a contributor since day one, by my side has certainly helped make it possible. I must express special thanks to our advertisers. It is their loyalty and support that allows us to keep the Laker free for readers. I hope you’ll join me in showing appreciation by patronizing their businesses. Best wishes for a happy, healthy new year!
AKER
SMITH MOUNTAIN
magazine
Published by Laker Media 13420 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121 Phone: 540.721.4675 • Fax: 540.721.4627 smithmountainlake.com
STAFF Publisher Mark Vosskamp Editor Andie Gibson Creative Director Matt Brown Copy Editor Elizabeth Hock Sales Executive Tim Dye Photographer Huong Fralin Graphic Designer Janette Saviano Support Specialist Morgan Jones
Andie
Tim
Huong
Matt
Elizabeth
Janette
Morgan
CONTRIBUTORS Writers Catriona Tudor Erler Ferne Hale Jerry Hale Amy Hanek Lynda Imirie Gordon Kendall Lindsey Wagnon
Photographers Catriona Tudor Erler Micah Gaudio Ted Pratt Rick Ries
CONTACT INFORMATION Advertising 540.721.4675, ext. 409 tim@smithmountainlaker.com
Mark Vosskamp, Publisher
Editorial 540.721.4675, ext. 402 editor@smithmountainlaker.com
From the Archives The inaugural issue of the Smith Mountain Laker, published in August 2001, featured a color cover and inside feature on the 11th annual SML Antique & Classic Boat Show. The majority of the 24-page publication was printed in black and white and included stories on the SML Water Ski Club, innovative new building products, the Smith Mountain Arts Council and the SML Association’s plans for 2001. 8
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Subscriptions 540.721.4675, ext. 401 editor@smithmountainlaker.com Calendar items calendar@smithmountainlaker.com
MARCH/APRIL 2011 DEADLINES Advertising scheduling and materials Jan. 28 Calendar submissions Feb. 1 ©2011 Times-World LLC, The Smith Mountain Laker Magazine is a community publication solely owned by Times-World LLC. It is published for the residents of Smith Mountain Lake and is subject to Times-World LLC editorial policies. The views and opinions are those of the authors. The opinions expressed, unless otherwise noted, should not be construed to be those of Times-World LLC or its affiliates. Lists are for reference only and do not necessarily imply approbation. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from Times-World LLC. All rights reserved. Real Estate advertised in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968.
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©2010, An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM 9 Prudential is a service mark of the Prudential Insurance Company of America. 819
travels | TAKE THE LAKER WITH YOU
Kuwait p Bermuda From left, Roger and Judy Pells and Kathy and Chuck Cope of Moneta celebrated all four birthdays and both wedding anniversaries with a cruise to Bermuda in October, a week after Hurricane Igor hit the island. The couples posed with their Lakers at Ferry Landing in the downtown capital of Hamilton with the colorful shops that line Front Street in the background.
t Christopher Wiseman, a U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class, who is a master at arms for the military police, took time out to pose with the Laker at Camp Buehring in Udairi, Kuwait. Wiseman, a five-year Navy veteran who will be stationed in Kuwait until sometime this summer, is a native of Hardy and a graduate of Franklin County High School. His parents are Charles and Sharon Wiseman of Hardy.
Quebec City Canada was a popular travel destination for Lakers in the fall. Above, Ted and Linda Saunders of Huddleston took the Laker on a cruise out of New York City that included stops in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Foundland. They posed for this photo in Quebec City with the towering Chateau Frontenac in the background. From left, Bill and Gale Taylor and Bev and
Tom Scott of Union Hall also visited Quebec City and the Mont Tremblant area of Canada in the fall. “We did not stay at the Frontenac – too expensive!,” Bev Scott said. “We did, however, take a tour and it was outstanding. Our guide was wonderful and we learned all kinds of history and tidbits about the hotel.” Chateau Frontenac, which opened in 1893, includes 618 guest rooms and suites, and features incredible views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
Send Us Your Photo! p Italy Three lake-area couples enjoyed a trip to Venice, Rome, Florence, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast in September. Shown on their balcony in Sorrento are (from left) Steve and Susan Dorr, Flavia (the group’s guide), Carol and Ray Traen, and Linda and Dave Wilmesher.
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Take the Laker with you on your next adventure and e-mail us your photo with a famous landmark, unusual attraction or stunning scenery in the background. And if you run into someone famous, be sure to include them in the fun. Submit to letters@ smithmountainlaker.com. Don’t forget to leave your magazine behind so others can discover Smith Mountain Lake!
View more photos at smithmountainlake.com
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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shorelines | LAKE HOMES
In harmony
with nature Story by Ferne Hale • Photography by Huong Fralin and Bill Piatt
Snow blankets the lakefront home of Bill and Anne Piatt in December 2009. 12
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
T
o Bill and Anneliese Piatt, their home is not only a lake house, but a house designed around and completely integrated with its surroundings – the narrow point lot, the water and the spectacular mountain view.
“The outdoors is our canvas,” said Anneliese. “We live very close to nature, seeing the seasons change, feeling the warmth of the winter sun and the cool shade of our leafy trees in summer.” Bill added, “Our frequent comment is that the best part of the house is the part we had nothing to do with — the views of Smith Mountain.” Located up Witcher Creek near the base of the mountain, the home was designed for efficiency. “Rather than a couple of very large open rooms, we created several cozy spaces that all have multiple uses,” Anneliese said. “So the home is just right for the two of us, but it also readily accommodates large groups.” One of her favorite features is the European-style kitchen. Unlike some massive American kitchens, it is an efficient, galley-style space filled with high-tech German appliances, which perfectly suit the accomplished chef. The home’s energy footprint also reflects German inspiration. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Building Basics Year Built 2002; renovated and expanded in 2008 Square Footage 3,500 Design Style Contemporary European Chalet Architect Balzer & Associates, Inc. Builder Ken Brodin Builder, Inc. Dock Builder Peter Beckman SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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shorelines | LAKE HOMES
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
“We were visiting Anne’s relatives there recently, and we saw solar panels on houses, barns, garages, just everywhere,” said Bill, noting that solar panels on the Piatts’ roof provide for hot water in summer and toasty radiant floor heating during winter months. The system also allows for seven separately controlled heating zones. “We can economize when it’s just the two of us and heat additional rooms when guests come,” Bill explained. The Piatt’s home, which was featured on the SML Charity Home Tour last fall, also draws passive solar heat from the morning sun streaming in the windows in the winter. Leaves on strategically located deciduous trees block that sun in warmer months. Two whole-house fans provide enough air circulation that air-conditioning is rarely needed. Another feature the homeowners are particularly glad they incorporated is the stacked natural stone patio with firepit and extensive landscaping. “The patio doesn’t just complement the house, it completes it. Kudos to Anne for her landscape design and layout,” Bill said. “It makes us feel like we’re living in a park.” ABOVE The Piatts’ home on Witcher Creek offers a close-up view CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 of Smith Mountain. Photo courtesy of infocus-photo.com.
ABOVE Clockwise from left: Sun streams into the great room; an upstairs bedroom in the B&B area; a chess set from the Piatts’ collection of art and crafts; the plumbing for the soloar heat and hot water distribution is a study in German-style orderliness. 14
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
“The patio doesn’t just complement the house, it completes it.” Bill Piatt
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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shorelines | LAKE HOMES
“The outdoors is our canvas.” Anne Piatt
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
The couple met in 1974 in Togo, Africa. Bill was there as a Peace Corps volunteer and Anneliese was working as a nurse. The Piatts have lived in several countries around the world and have an eclectic collection of art and crafts — carved tables, unusual pottery, wall hangings – that includes pieces from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Mideast and Latin America. They also have incorporated artwork from local artists, friends and family into their home’s decor. Looking to possible needs in the future, the Piatts made the main living areas handicapped-accessible and included a separate entrance to an upstairs suite of rooms that could serve as a caregiver apartment. For now, they plan to offer that space as bed-and-breakfast accommodations. “We’ve already had some experience hosting a couple during their homebuilding project.” Bill said. “It worked out just fine.” LEFT Trees surrounding the home provide cool shade in the summer. Photo courtesy of infocus-photo.com. BELOW The European-style kitchen features a galley design and high-tech German appliances.
Home Journal Anne’s Top Splurge “We love the radiant floor heating in the winter. There is no substitute for warm feet and a cozy feeling in a room full of windows.” What Inspired Us “It all started with the window seat and grew from there with a heavy focus on maximizing the panoramic views,” Anne said. Bill’s Favorite Feature “The mountain setting with the clear azure waters of the lake.” We Couldn’t Live Without “Anne’s kitchen. It’s highly effecient for a highly skilled chef!” 16
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Lakescapes Nursery, located in the Southlake Area of Smith Mountain Lake, has recently expanded to include a new Westlake location conveniently located in the heart of Westlake Town Center, adjacent to the Smith Mountain Building Supply. Both of our locations offer a wide variety of unique and hard to ďŹ nd annuals, perennials, topiaries, shrubs, grasses and more. Additionally we carry an exceptionally impressive array of pottery from around the globe. Come see us for all your fall planting needs! Our services in addition to landscape design and installation, include total property management from mowing, leaf removal, mulching, planting of season color, all the way to container gardening. We work with clients on varying levels, depending on their needs and desires. 9T
A
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H ANNUAL
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Voted Best Landscaper 2005 - 2010 by the readers of Smith Mountain Laker Magazine
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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shorelines | LAKE & GARDEN
going with the
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
flow
Burt and Lynn Anderson capitalized on their landscape’s precarious slope and created a pastoral waterfall Story
and photography by
Catriona Tudor Erler
T
he steep slope plummeting down from the house to the lake would have been seen as a negative to most people, but not to Burt Anderson. For years, he dreamed of having a waterfall in his garden. So when he stepped out on the deck of his Moneta home as a prospective buyer and saw the incline, he knew he had found the perfect site to make his dream come true. The slope was bare except for some weedy grass and one tree growing near the water. It was the ideal blank slate for Burt’s project. Within weeks of settling into their new home, he and wife Lynn got to work on realizing his long-held vision. Enlisting the help of the landscape maintenance team headed by Raphael Torres of Rocky Mount, Burt stood on the deck overlooking the slope and directed the crew on where to dig the ponds and stream bed channels, and where to place the rocks to make it all look natural. “They were willing to do whatever we dreamed up,” said Lynn. The work crew was willing and capable, and Burt’s vision was sure, but there were still problems. “The s-curves were difficult,” admitted Burt. “We struggled with leaks at those points, and we almost lost the bottom pond during an exceptionally heavy rain storm. The water got under the liner, washing away masses of the foundation dirt.”
TOP LEFT A naturalistic waterfall cascades down the steep slope of the lakefront home of Lynn and Burt Anderson (above). TOP RIGHT A swallowtail butterfly sips nectar from a crape myrtle ‘Whit IV’ Red Rocket.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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shorelines | LAKE & GARDEN
Members of the Andersons’ landscape maintenance team adjust the rubber liner for the upper pond.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19
While Burt, Raphael and his team persevered on getting the look and the logistics of the series of ponds and waterfalls exactly right, Lynn was busy researching the ideal plants for the new garden feature. A master gardener, she consulted with Lakescapes Nursery for advice on plants that would do well in the setting and help enhance the natural look of the series of waterfalls and ponds. With her design sense, Lynn also knew that using drifts of one plant creates a more effective composition than a spotty mixture of different plants all jumbled together. She planted a Crimson Queen threadleaf Japanese red maple as a focal point at the s-curve of the stream. On the opposite side, she clustered Loropetalum chinense ‘Ruby,’ a small-growing variety of Chinese fringe flower with arching stems that top out at 3-5 feet tall and round. Knock Out shrub roses intermingle with the loropetalum, their season long flowering of rosy pink flowers complementing the fringe flower’s burgundy foliage. Cotoneaster salcifolius ‘Scarlet Leader’ covers much of the ground along the opposite side of the water feature, its long stems trailing into the running water. Lynn also planned the front garden, focusing on a pastel palette with pink flowering Knock Out roses and evergreen conifers and shrubs for year-round interest. A picket fence borders the property along the road (another of Burt’s garden desires), and a plaque near the front door announces, “A spoiled rotten cat lives here.” Before retiring to the lake, Burt was a veterinarian. In addition to gardening, both are passionate about their cats. 20
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
“The s-curves were difficult. We struggled with leaks at those points, and we almost lost the bottom pond during an exceptionally heavy rain storm.” Burt Anderson
Catriona Tudor Erler is a freelance garden writer, photographer and speaker who divides her time between SML and Charlottesville. She is the author of nine garden books, including “Design Ideas for Home Landscaping,” “Poolscaping: Gardening and Landscaping Around Your Pool and Spa,” and “Complete Home Landscaping.”
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If you’re inspired to add a water feature to your landscape, consider the following tips to ensure it looks natural and achieves the desired effect. Copy Nature Visit local waterfalls and take note of the rock formations, plant materials and features that make them special. Also, listen. The way water falls and runs over rocks affects the sound. Take photographs to serve as a guide when you begin work on your own creation.
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Soften the Edges Choose plant materials that will spill over the edges to obscure plastic sheeting and integrate the water feature into the greater landscape. Avoid Rock “Necklaces” The area under a waterfall is dug out by the force of the stream, pushing smaller pebbles and sand up to the outer edges. Design your pool to have the same characteristics by placing larger stones at the point where the waterfall lands. Scatter stones that radiate out toward the “shore,” getting smaller as they move away from the force of the falling water to the sandy edges.
Left to right: Cynthia H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, Michael B. Kemp, Judith A. Honaker and N. Edward Link, Jr.
Left to right: Cynthia H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, Michael Kemp, Judith A. Honaker and N. Edward Michael B.B.Kemp N. Edward Link, Jr.
Left to right: Cynthia H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, Michael B. Kemp, Judith A. HonakerSenior and N.Vice Edward Link, Jr. President Senior Vice President
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N. Edward Link, Jr. Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Left to right: Cynthia H. Left Shively, JodieCynthia S.Senior Wertz, Michael B. Kemp, JudithMichael A. Honaker and N. Edward Link, Jr. and N. Edward Link, Senior Vice President—Wealth Management Vice President—Wealth Management toFinancial right: H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, B. Kemp, Judith A. Planning Honaker Planning Specialist Financial Specialist Judith A. Honaker Cynthia H. Shively Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Registered Client Service Associate Financial Advisor CynthiaLink, H. Shively Judith Honaker Edward Link, N. Jr. Edward Michael B. KempMichael Jr. Planning B.A. Kemp Financial Planning N. Specialist Financial Specialist Financial Planning Associate
Financial Advisor Registered Client Service Associate Senior Vice President—Wealth Senior Vice President—Wealth Senior Vice Management President—Wealth Management Senior Vice Management President—Wealth Managem Financial Planning Associate Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Cynthia H. Shively Judith A. Honaker JodiePlanning S. Wertz Specialist Financial Planning Financial Specialist Planning Specialist Specialist Financial Advisor Financial Planning Financial Registered Client Service Associate Jodie S. Wertz Client Service Associate ClientH.Service AssociateJudith A. HonakerJudith A. Honaker Financial Planning Cynthia Associate H. Shively Cynthia Shively Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Registered Client Service Associate Registered Client Service Associate 213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600 Jodie S. Wertz Financial Planning Financial Associate Planning Associate Roanoke, VA 24011 Client Service Associate 540-345-1555 • 888-449-4449 Jodie S. Wertz Jodie S. Wertz www.fc.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb Client Service Associate Client Service Associate 213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600
Roanoke, VA 24011 213 South Jefferson213 Street, Suite 1600 Street, Suite 1600 South Jefferson 540-345-1555 •Roanoke, 888-449-4449 VA 24011 Roanoke, VA 24011 540-345-1555 •540-345-1555 888-449-4449• 888-449-4449 www.fc.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb
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© 2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member NY CS 6488998 10/10 © 2010 Morgan Stanley Smith BarneySIPC. LLC. Member SIPC. LLC. Member NY CS 6488998 10/10 © 2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney SIPC.
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TAX SMARTS IRS UPDATE – FOR 2011 Here’s a quick update on some issues that might affect you and your taxes.
T
he maximum Section 179 first-year expensing deduction doubles from $250,000 to $500,000 for qualified business property placed in service in 2010 and 2011, while the phaseout threshold rises from $800,000 to $2 million. Also, a maximum deduction of $250,000 may be claimed for qualified improvements to leasehold, restaurant, and retail property The usual ten-year recognition period for triggering a “built-in gains” (BIG) tax after converting to S corporation status is reduced to five years for dispositions in 2011. Employees no longer have to substantiate business use of cell phones and similar devices. Personal use is treated as a tax-free fringe benefit. Participants in 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans can roll over funds to a designated Roth account. For 2010 rollovers, taxable income may be split between 2011 and 2012. Effective January 1, 2011, over-the-counter medications cannot be reimbursed from flexible spending arrangements (FSAs), health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), and Archer medical savings accounts (MSAs) unless you have a prescription for them. Insulin can still be reimbursed from these accounts. The IRS has issued a notice providing temporary relief from the requirement that employers report the cost of health coverage on employees’ W-2 statements beginning with forms issued for 2011. The requirement to report the value of health benefits was part of the 2010 health care reform legislation. The IRS notice states that reporting for 2011 will be optional, not mandatory, giving employers more time to make changes to their payroll systems or procedures. The IRS has announced that the 2011 contribution limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) will remain the same as the 2010 limits: $3,050 for individuals and $6,150 for families. Individuals aged 55 or older may contribute an additional $1,000. Please give me a call if you would like to discuss the above changes or for any other assistance concerning your individual and business accounting and tax needs; please feel free to contact me at (540) 297-4204.
Kevin A. Mele, CPA is a Certified Quickbooks Pro Advisor who specializes in custom Quickbooks design, installation, and training for your business. 22
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Kevin A. Mele, CPA
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most memorable Since its inception nearly 10 years ago, the Laker has strived to maintain the principle stated on the cover – to be Smith Mountain Lake’s premier lifestyle and entertainment publication. That means finding and producing stories and photography that define the lake – its residents, recreational opportunities, homes, special events, charitable endeavors – and making them the primary focus of each issue. Looking back over the past decade and finding stories for a “most memorable” package was easy. Narrowing it down to 10? Not so simple. So, we cheated a bit. The magazine’s editorial staff opted to save the top homes, profiles and gardening stories for features of their own (to be published later in the year) and focus this retrospective on stories that represent the most unique aspects of life at SML and have elicited the most reader feedback and requests for back issues. We asked longtime freelancer Jerry Hale, who wrote many of the features selected, to take a look back and provide an update on these noteworthy SML stories. – Andie Gibson, Editor
To read the original stories, log on to smithmountainlake.com/10. SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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A look back at some of our most memorable stories of the past decade By Jerry Hale
INAUGURAL SUMMER FUN GUIDE June/July 2003
THEN Popular with visitors and residents alike, the Laker’s Summer Fun Guide has appeared in some form every year since its debut in 2003. Initially, it included opportunities for fun in outlying areas. However, as the lake grew, the guide became focused exclusively on activities at SML. NOW The feature was redesigned into grid format, which made it more user-friendly and comprehensive. In addition to contact information, hours of operation, channel marker and map ID, the guide includes a list of services offered at some of the lake’s top spots for summer fun. Look for it again in the upcoming May/June issue.
THE ISLANDS OF SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE June/July and July/August 2005
THEN It took stories in two consecutive summer issues to showcase SML’s bevy of notable islands — the highest “hilltops” in the watershed when the lake was formed in the 1960s. Even with double coverage, there were a few islands overlooked. NOW Significant boat-wake erosion to unstable island shorelines has occurred, and a few islands are well on their way to becoming invisible underwater hazards at full pond. The most notable in this category include the smallest of the Lucky Island trio near marker B13 and what we called the lake’s “smallest island,” in the creek adjacent to Carter Island near the State Park cabins. It will be a pity to see them disappear.
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
(Local Highlight)
By Auburn Cecil
Shorelines
What About BOB? Now
Smith Mountain Lake has been known for many things over the years. While most people mention the beautiful blue water, the mountain, the striper fishing and friendly people, SML has gotten some national attention for its role as Lake Winnipesaukee in the Touchstone Motion Picture “What About Bob?” The 1991, film featured Smith Mountain Lake as a small vacation town in New Hampshire and starred Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss. If you somehow missed this outrageously funny comedy, it’s a true Bill Murray classic. He plays Bob Wiley, a troubled but loveable therapy patient with a multi-phobic personality who is self described as “having problems.” After meeting with Dr. Leo Marvin, played by Dreyfuss, Bob feels like he has made real progress. However, when Dr. Marvin leaves for a quiet family vacation, Bob freaks out and follows him (to his lake retreat). Bob becomes an instant hit with the family, all the while driving the shrink crazy. The movie features beautiful scenes of the lake, shots of what used to be Downtown Moneta, and many scenes of a beautiful lake home. Over the years, the house has become somewhat of a legend around the lake. Sight-seeing cruises with friends and family usually feature a drive-by of the property and many people wonder just how much the
house has changed over the years. “Every time we took someone out on the lake, we’d always go by the ‘What About Bob?’ house,” said Judy Flora of Concierge & Errand Services, who now assists with care of the home. The home was built in 1986 on a gorgeous point lot. Just four years later, it was renovated for the movie, adding a screened-in porch and front porch. When the home went on the market in 2004, real estate agent Tom Fansler called one of his long-time clients who had been looking for a place with a great lake view and said, “This home has a spectacular view but it also has quite a reputation and that might be good, or it might be bad.” The view sold the house and the proud new owner promptly went out and purchased the “What About Bob?” video. He commented, “I didn’t remember having seen the movie at all.” While he wanted to surprise his family with the home, the movie gave him a way to test how much they would
like their lake setting. His wife’s reaction wasn’t quite what he was looking for – she fell asleep. However, his kids intently watched the movie and when he surprised them for Christmas with a trip to their new home, his 12-year-old was the first to mention that it looked a lot like the “What About Bob?” house. He denied it until she played the movie and announced, “Dad, this is the house.” For the rest of the weekend the kids watched the movie repetitively and re-enacted scenes throughout the house. The family has graciously allowed us to show just how much has changed… and stayed the same in this legendary home. From the original wallpaper in the bedroom to the bell that Bob obnoxiously rang on the back porch, much of the house has remained the same. In fact, things are so similar that it is hard to open a door without expecting to see Bob on the other side. The new owners have decided that the classic, country style that the house features in the movie is perfect, so they aren’t changing much. Of course, they say that the true draw of the home has nothing to do with the movie. “It’s a really special place. We have such a sense of peace being here and seeing the lake on three sides. We plan on keeping it in the family for many years.”
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“WHAT ABOUT BOB?” NOW June/July 2005
NOW The Kochs are now full-time lake residents. “We are grateful to be caretakers of such a famous home,” Robert Koch said. “We have made few changes to the original house; we really want to keep it much as it was in the movie. We have added a fire pit in the backyard, which we enjoy when family and friends are with us, plus a small cottage that serves as an office and music room. We strived to make it look as old as the original home, using lots of natural and reclaimed materials in the process.”
To read the original stories, log on to smithmountainlake.com/10.
Local Feature
Shorelines
THEN The story focused on the home that was the primary site of filming for “What About Bob?,” the 1991 Touchstone Motion Picture filmed at SML. Robert Koch and his family acquired it for a lakefront respite from the bustle of Washington, D.C. and the Maryland suburbs. When he purchased the house, Koch and his family had not seen the movie, which starred Richard Dreyfuss and Bill Murray.
by Jerry Hale
A Trek to the Top of Smith Mountain Is A Rewarding Natural High!
What’s Up There? One of Smith Mountain Lake’s best-kept secrets is hiding beneath tree cover. It’s the high trail along the ridge of scenic Smith Mountain—up where eyes always seem to travel but people seldom do. To get there, you’ll need a dry day and a capable vehicle. Leave the shiny sedan at home and take a 4-wheel-drive truck or SUV that shrugs off ruts, rocks, roots and a bit of a climb. Hiking boots are a good idea for tramping around at the summit, plus some bottled water and a cell phone in case of emergency. A pair of binoculars is great for scanning the view from the top or identifying birds. In summer, a snake kit is probably a good idea. Once you’re suitably equipped, head toward the Dairy Queen in Penhook. Turn north off of Rt. 40 onto Old Mountain Rd (Rt. 645) as if you were going toward The Water’s Edge. Take a right at the “T” onto Smith Mountain Rd. (626) for 1.1 miles, then left on Jasmine, Rt. 778. At this point you’re about 5.5 miles from the summit. Watch for a gated dirt road (gate’s usually but not always open, so have a Plan B for your outing) on the left that begins the ascent. We almost passed it by, but were lucky to meet Gary Cowan, Jo Smith and Stacey Hall offloading their horses for a trail ride. They directed us up through the gate, where a posting on the right indicated we were entering a VDGIF Wildlife Management area and that camping is allowed—just leave things as you find them. Groups of more than 12 require prior approval. Ours was a day trip, just to see for ourselves—and for Laker readers— what’s up there … and what is not. We encountered no spectacular log homes or mountain retreats. No fast food. No Stuckey’s (if you remember Stuckey’s, your visit will probably be a retirement
outing). Just a long gravel road, dust and native Virginia pines by the thousands. No one has cleaned up fallen trees and limbs on the mountainside, so there is plenty of fuel littering the forest floor — cause for caution with open campfires. Other than a couple of tight switchbacks, there aren’t many reference points along the ascent road, and it’s hard to tell from which direction you’re approaching the top…except that the mountain gives way to a green valley on the right and, as you near the ridge, you begin glimpsing the lake to the left through the trees. Then the road levels out and heads straight toward the first microwave tower, where we stopped to nuke our burrito snacks. Just kidding. The sign on the fence surrounding the installation says this is an FCC Emergency Communications relay tower. It’s the one visible from the Lake on the southern end of the mountain. We checked the altitude with a pocket GPS: 1,967 feet at the base of the tower. There’s a pole-mounted electric meter just outside the fence – no freebies on kilowatts, even up here! From this point, the road alternates between mild dips and climbs for 2.6 miles until it dead ends at the tower nearest the cut where the dam is located. This is a more substantial installation, a blockhouse building surrounded by barbed-top cyclone fencing. The sign here says this outpost belongs to US Cellular, confirmed by the multiple relay dishes bolted high on its uprights. The Smith Mountain Tower Cam (live images from this camera are shown periodically on Channel 10 News) is also visible about halfway up, pointing toward The View. This tower sits on land that is 1,865 feet above sea level (about 1,065 feet above full pond). It feels higher than that looking down, just as it looks a lot higher when viewed from a boat ride along the sloping shores that
plunge through the Lake’s surface. (Little known fact: The name Smith Mountain originally designated the lower peak at the northeastern side of the dam. Once the lake was flooded, however, casual usage attached the term to the more formidable ridge along the lakeshore.) Standing near the base of the tower, we find what we were hoping for: a wide break in the trees that reveals Saunder’s Marina to the right, Vista Pointe to the left, and Bernard’s Landing between them, slightly farther out. Beyond those landmarks, the Blackwater River snakes westward, with Christmas Tree Island looking considerably smaller than it does from the water. And the Roanoke channel meanders toward Bridgewater Plaza which, despite our vantage point, is hidden by distance and shoreline trees. A lone hawk circled lazily against a cloudless sky. Click, click, click! Lake photographer James Roney captured the image again and again, standing atop our Ford Explorer and thrusting his tripod-mounted camera yet another eight feet or so skyward in search of the best angle possible. The return trip backtracks along the same one-lane service road, but the views seem fresh due to the reverse perspective. Once we begin the descent from the first tower, we use low-low gear on the steepest portions to keep the truck sufficiently slowed without standing on the brakes. Beware of lose gravel at the switchback turns. All in all, the round-trip from the DQ can be done in less than three hours. Allow 4 to 5 hours if you plan a leisurely picnic and some hiking. It’s a great activity for when you have visitors…and still leaves time the same day for fun on the Lake. Water skiing, anyone?
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DRIVE TO THE TOP OF SMITH MOUNTAIN July/August 2005
THEN What is on top of Smith Mountain and how can I go see it? This story, which addressed and answered the question, has generated more requests for back copies than any other in the magazine’s history. Photographer James Roney and I went looking for a road up and, with hints from locals at the Penhook Dairy Queen, found AEP’s access road open on a sunny day in mid-March. “We chose that time of year mostly because we figured the trees wouldn’t have leafed out to close in the views. And the snakes wouldn’t be out yet, either,” Roney recalled. NOW Wayne Reynolds, real estate manager for AEP, confirmed that the gate to the road up the mountainside is open from September through midMarch to accommodate hunters and anyone else with a vehicle capable of navigating the precarious route. The switch-backed gravel road has exposed tree roots and is susceptible to rutting and wash-outs. “Best not to try it when things are wet or slippery,” Reynolds said. “Also remember that hunters are active in the area, and that fires are always risky.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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Laker Feature
Shorleines
by Ferne Hale
◄ Jumping off “The Cliffs” is a rite of passage for kids raised on Smith Mountain Lake
GROWING UP
LAKER
When kids vacation at Smith Mountain Lake, what’s the one part they really hate? Packing up to go home! Some youngsters never have to. They live here. Talking with Lakers, ages 8 to 25, let us in on what it’s like to grow up with the Lake in your backyard. Seventeen-year old Scott Rowe, a lifetime Laker, remembers swimming with his brother at an early age, back when their dock was the only one in a cove that now has 14. One of Scott’s favorite activities was (and still is) camping with friends on the islands, most often Lucky Island near Gills Creek. “We’d go by boat or jet ski,” he said. “You could pass a course and operate a jet ski years before you could drive a car. One summer I pumped gas at
Banana Joe’s on the Blackwater, and I got there by water. Awesome.” Scott had friends from school but had more in common with Lake friends as they got older. Despite living in a rural area, riding the jet ski gave him mobility. “You can get to a friend’s house in five minutes by water,” Scott said, smiling. Spencer Rowe, Scott’s brother, pumped gas at Foxport Marina and later worked at Crazy Horse renting boats. The Lake was a defining factor in Spencer’s athletic interests. Before leaving for college, he was often seen on the Blackwater and at wakeboard tournaments performing gravity-defying stunts. “Summer was always great because of the Lake,”
COOPER FAMILY: SKIING SISTERS
Lake-Area Kids Share Their Take on Being Raised at Smith Mountain Lake Scott said. “It’s easy to forget how special it is until friends from elsewhere visit and rave about it.” Another Blackwater brood – Missy, 15, Carrie, 14, Jessica, 11, and Johnny, 8 – love swimming, tubing, wakeboarding, and mostly just being here with family. “Summer is like going on a long vacation, but you’re already there!” The kids camp on the islands, swim far out in their cove, sleep on the boat, and like other Laker kids, love jumping off “the cliffs.” They relish visits by relatives and old friends but enjoy the slow pace of Franklin County. Their friends come from church, school, or are children of their parents’ friends. These youngsters regard the Lake as a nice fringe benefit of rural life that includes learning to drive on little back roads with minimal traffic. Downsides? “Not having a flat place to ride a bike,” Johnny said. “And having to truck all the way to Roanoke when you really need something,” groaned the girls. They love the new Applebee’s and movie theater in Rocky Mount, yet one of them predicted, “The area will stay beautiful. It’ll never be suburbia here!” Ryan Waters, 25, was two years old when his parents moved here. He would sit on his waterskiing dad’s shoulders at age 3, was kneeboarding at age 5, waterskiing at 7, and wakeboarding at 12. He especially liked having his cousins - instant friends - just 10 minutes away. In the summer, he would take the boat to work at the marina where his cousins also worked. Later, while in college, he noticed another big plus: “All the friends from campus want to visit you at the Lake.” He cited the negatives: “That really long school bus ride, nothing to do in the winter, and only Sun Trust, DeLong’s, and one other little place for businesses.” SML played a defining role in Ryan’s occupations. He ran a parasail business at the Lake for four years, got his
▲As a teen, Scott Rowe rode his jet ski to work at Banana Joe’s
May/June 2006
Captain’s license at age 18, bought the business and made enough money to pay for college. One of his parasailing customers introduced him to his first post-college employer. Eventually, he left that Dallas sales job to work on a yacht off the Maine coast. Later, he ran a parasailing business in St. Thomas. Returning to the Lake after seven years, Ryan was shocked at the change — but happy to see it. “You don’t have to drive for an hour to see a movie anymore.” He felt it was important to live away from the SML area during college and his first years of full-time work. Having seen the “outside world,” he wants to call SML home. He recently passed the Virginia real estate exam, got his agent’s license, and works for Realty Services, Inc. Ryan’s 23-year-old sister, Lindsey, was two months old when the family moved here. Their Lake home had a relaxing atmosphere. Activities centered around the boat, tennis, beach volleyball, and swimming. She also recalled lots of friends and family visiting. “Sometimes we’d sleep on lawn chairs on the dock,” she said. “Camping on the islands with friends and cousins was a blast.” “I definitely didn’t like the hour-and-a-half bus ride to school, and the mall was an hour away with mom driving,” she lamented. Lindsey worked last summer at a Westlake law firm and has decided she‘d like to settle here after law school. “With so many people coming here, I’d like to do real estate law,” she said. “I went to college in North Carolina and now attend law school in Ohio. I wanted to get away and see how I’d like it.” She found out: “Nothing compares to the Lake. It’s so beautiful, and growing up, I didn’t even realize it.”
▲One of the benefits of growing up Laker is plenty of water fun
THEN Many Lakers take to water skis as a favorite cool-off pastime, but our story introduced readers to the world of competitive water-skiing as practiced by Suzanne, Michaela, Randolph and Caroline Cooper, then ages 17, 16, 13 and 11 respectively. Encouraged, enabled and coached by their parents, Ashley and Lori Cooper, the girls had already racked up an impressive list of accolades at the state and national levels in slalom competitions.
▲Ryan Waters paid for college by starting his own parasail business
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NOW The Cooper sisters have continued their trainingintense pursuit of tournament medals, with Michaela becoming a three-time All-American water-skier at Florida’s Rollins College. She also won gold at the 2010 Junior U.S. Open, became the Eastern Regional Open Women’s Champion and skied to multiple national collegiate titles. Randolph won a national title in 2005, state and regional titles in 2009, and has worked at Coble Water Ski School in Lillington, N.C. for the past three summers. She hopes to compete at the collegiate level next fall. Caroline won the Junior U.S. Open in 2009, which qualified her to compete in the 2010 Junior Masters where she placed fourth. She also won state and regional titles in 2010. Suzanne, the Coopers’ oldest, competed for Alabama’s Auburn University where she now attends graduate school. She married Matthew Peters last summer.
GROWING UP LAKER November/December 2005
THEN Fascinated by the idea of having access to SML during fun-filled childhood years, writer Ferne Hale explored what it was like to grow up with the lake as your backyard. Among those interviewed was Gleason Scott Rowe, whose parents, Charlie and Becky, built a home in Morningwood Cove before Scott was born. Ryan Waters, son of Bridgewater Plaza developer Ed Waters and wife Linda, was also featured.
After graduating from James Madison University, Ryan Waters returned to the lake to work in real estate. In 2009, he married Katie Boor, a third-grade teacher at Dudley Elementary in Wirtz. The couple added the next generation to their Laker family when son Bolin “Bo” Edward was born last October.
Laker Feature
Shorelines
NOW Now 22 and a senior at George Mason University double majoring in global affairs and Spanish, Scott Rowe plans to work a few years in the Washington, D.C. area after graduation before heading to law school. “The community I grew up in, specifically my cove of neighbors, taught me how to interact with all kinds of people,” Rowe said. “Several neighbors are like family and have always supported and encouraged me. Even though I always planned on leaving to live in an urban area, the lake will always be home for me.”
by Jerry Hale
Serious Skiers The Cooper Family Raises Cows, Horses & Slalom Champions at SML
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
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shorelines | 10TH ANNIVERSARY
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HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE OVER SML September/October 2006
Laker Feature
THEN Few views of SML could be more breathtaking than one from the basket of a hot air balloon, a presumption my wife and I confirmed back in 2006. Ferne and I took off midway up the Blackwater near Boxwood Green. Our flight included the thrill of dipping the floor of the basket into the water’s surface several times and, of course, birds-eye views of favorite coves we previously had only seen at water level.
Shorelines
by Jerry & Ferne Hale
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over SML Awe-inspiring
Up, Up &
AWAY
The telltale “Whooosshhh!” from the sky creates a scramble on the ground: people spilling out onto their decks and stopping their cars to crane skyward for a glimpse of a brightlycolored balloon drifting effortlessly overhead. “Who’s up in that thing?” they wonder. Secretly, they think, “Someday….” Well, now your dream of a balloon adventure can come true right here at Smith Mountain Lake, just as it did for us one evening when the Endeavor Balloon Company drove over from Daleville to let us experience ballooning at SML first-hand. Captain Colin Graham has been piloting hot air balloons for more than 10 years and doing it commercially for the past five. With more than 600 hours of flight time, he’s been aloft above 20 states and one Canadian province. Balloon pilots must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration before they can carry passengers. Colin trained in Virginia and New Mexico. He’s required to get re-certified every two years to demonstrate balloon handling proficiency and safety procedures. And proficiency reigns at Endeavor Balloons. Friendly but
business-like, the captain and his three ground crew members meshed like components of a fine watch. “The captain explains everything,” said Winding Waters’ Joanne Steckline, who recently took an Endeavor balloon ride with husband Frank as a gift from their grown H E I G H T C O M PA R I S O N 1 3 6 ’ TA L L WESTLAKE WAT E R T O W E R
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children. “I don’t like heights at all, but this wasn’t one bit scary. And the views, looking down on Park Place and the dam, were just spectacular!” A trip’s departure point is determined in part by wind direction and speed. The Stecklines’ voyage
departed from their front yard; ours lifted off from a grassy point midway up the Blackwater. Endeavor operates daily and usually flies early morning or late afternoon when the breezes are light. About 70 percent of flights occur on their originally scheduled day and time; the rest have to be rescheduled for more balloon-friendly weather. Trips above SML are available in fall, winter and spring. Mid-summer days lack favorable breezes and are too hazy for brilliant sightseeing. While the pilot has little control over float direction, Colin showed us the precision with which he can manage altitude by skimming along the surface of a nearby cove. A quarter of an inch of water moistened the wicker basket’s floor as we made a wake in the glassy water. We waved assuredly to well-wishers who streamed onto decks and docks to greet us. Then, as the balloon climbed to clear the shoreline trees, we spotted Anne Carpenter, a Boxwood Green neighbor, out tending her flowers. “It’s Jerry and Ferne,” we hollered. “We’ll throw you a line, and you can
NOW Endeavor Balloon Company, which took us for that memorable flight, has relocated its operations to Colorado, and no hot-air balloon business has taken its spot in the market. However, flying above SML is still a possibility. SML Aviation offers sight-seeing flights over the lake from SML Airport. In addition, SML Parasail will resume operations on Memorial Day weekend from the former Virgil Naff Sea Doo rental dock at Parkway Marina.
Bottom from left, laying out the gondola and canopy A motorized fan provides initial inflation Touchdown in a lakeside neighborhood
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DRIVE AROUND THE LAKE May/June 2007
THEN Can you drive around the lake at the dam end? Laker Magazine founding publisher Micah Gaudio and I decided to give it a try after hearing a number of people ask the question. We picked a spring day and set out from Bridgewater Plaza. We were surprised to find the circuit was little more than 60 miles, easily doable in an afternoon. However, we skipped a northern loop that would have taken us along Diamond Hill and Goodview roads, eventually crossing the upper Roanoke at Bay Roc Marina and returning to Virginia 122 via Hardy Road. NOW While retracing the route recently, I noticed a few changes – the small sign for Brooks Mill Winery along Virginia 834, a refurbished bridge where Climax Road crosses Round Pound, Anchor’s Family Restaurant in place of the original White House Restaurant, Mayberry Drive-In and Diner along Virginia 608 and, of course, the commercial/residential development Downtown Moneta/Mayberry Hills. The renovation of Bethlehem United Methodist is evident as you hit Virginia 122 where you’ll also notice a new Dollar General and Food Lion at Diamond Hill Road.
Shorelines
FEATURE
If you’re like most Lakers, residents and visitors alike, you’ve heard that a car trip completely around Smith Mountain Lake is either: A. Impossible B. Dangerous and foreboding (think “Deliverance”) C. A day’s journey D. Not at all worth doing STORY BY JERRY HALE
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n a sunny spring morning, Laker publisher Micah Gaudio and I set out to drive “around” the Lake. Could it be done? Would it be worth doing? Would we ever return from such a reckless adventure? We indexed the car’s trip meter at the now-defunct Dick’s Market at the intersection of Brooks Mill and Burnt Chimney roads. Right now, take a guess at what the “full circle” mileage will be and write it down for reference later. My guess is: __________ miles.
Driving Around SML’s
Dam End A view from above Halesford Bridge Inset map highlights the route taken around the Lake
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If you’re like us, you guessed too high. More on that later. Here’s a bit of what we saw along the way. Just before the first mile of Rt. 834, we noted a nice vista on the left. Next we crossed a bridge over the Blackwater under which early Lakers claim they once water skied. Today, this up-river spot is silted-in and debris strewn — not pretty or navigable. But patience pays: another nice Lake vista did appear at mile 6.2. As we drove, we considered the tools at our disposal. Our basic plan was to put the snazzy dashboard navigation system to the test. In my lap was the backup: a worn Lake chart with the homes of the 2002 SML Charity Home Tour clearly marked, retrieved that morning from a boat glove compartment where it had acquired a bit of mildew to prove its vintage. That map became useless near Union Hall where Rt. 40 angles away from the Lake enough to drift off the edge of the paper. But it had shown a number of turnoffs that those unfamiliar with the Blackwater River’s southern shore might take to explore lakefront residential areas. Examples: Rt. 662 (Old Salem School Road) leads out to the point at the former Banana Joe’s; following Rt. 945 (Kemp Ford Road) at the Whistle Stop to Rt. 938 (Standiford Road) will take you to the new development at the Cliffs; Rt. 945 also
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leads to Rt. 663 (Dillard Hill Rd.) and access to Contentment Island and Pelican Point; Rt. 645 (Old Mountain Road) at Penhook heads toward The Water’s Edge subdivision as well as Vista Point. The Laker Visitor Information map shows these and other capillary roads quite clearly. Our timeframe, however, didn’t allow for side trips; we were charting the “direct” route. It had been 7.0 miles down Rt. 834 and another 6.8 along Rt. 40 to the Penhook Minute Market where we stopped for local knowledge (and a breakfast biscuit!). We asked customer Al Carter, who has lived in the area 50 years, the best route around the dam. He shrugged and said: “Never have taken the mountain road. No reason to.” Landon Holland, an 80-year resident having breakfast in the adjoining Dairy Queen, was a bit more instructive: “Eight more miles to Blair’s Texaco; turn left and just stay on the main road.” Back on the road, we crossed the Franklin County/ Pittsylvania County border a half mile east of Penhook. Another 1.5 miles turned up the sign for the SML Dam Visitor’s Center at Rt. 751. Blair’s was a few miles farther on the right, shortly after the Pigg River bridge and smack at the junction with Rt. 608 (Climax Road). A blue pole sign out front reads, “Pure Oil;” looking for a Texaco, we passed the turnoff, then backtracked and re-set the trip odometer. Locals apparently know Blair’s sells Texaco gas. Climax Road quickly becomes Toshes Road and the first good view of the back side of Smith Mountain is on the left about two miles in. At mile 2.5, Toshes Road branches left but Rt. 608 continues as Ridgeway. At mile 4.5, notice Burning Bush Holiness Church nestled on the left – no doubt one of the area’s smaller parish buildings. Mile 5.6 features a bridge over Leesville spillway where a sign introduces Bedford County. The road changes to Toler’s Ferry (yes, thankfully, the navigation system was noticing the name changes!) and gets more serpentine. Still, all of
2 0 0 7
5 1
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shorelines | 10TH ANNIVERSARY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
LAKE LANDMARKS May/June 2008
THEN The idea for this story was to identify several notable points at the lake, all approachable by water, thinking readers might be intrigued by the prospect of cruising to all of them during the boating season. Feedback indicated a number of them did and that others singled out particular landmarks they had yet to visit for cruise destinations. NOW All 14 landmarks mentioned in the original story still make great boating destinations. One continues to be particularly newsworthy – the Cliffs, a popular upper Blackwater destination where residents and vacationers used to jump from a bluff into 70-foot-deep water. The Cliffs became private property and various notrespassing signs were erected, some of which have been defaced or torn down. A sturdy version of the shore-side sign was re-erected late last fall, ready to remind people this year that the favorite pastime is now illegal.
DAM LAGER May/June 2010
THEN The Laker was the first to announce the release of a locallybrewed beer called Dam Lager, a brand created by lake resident Jerome Parnell to have special appeal to residents and vacationers. Crafted by talented brew master John Bryce in the tanks at Roanoke’s Railhouse Brewery, and sporting a label that pictures the face of the Smith Mountain Dam, the new suds selection became popular on taps of numerous bars around the lake, including Jonathan’s, Benjamin’s at the Pointe and Portside Bar and Grill. NOW Parnell is currently conducting negotiations in hopes of expanding the brand’s visibility and availability for the upcoming summer. He said he expects to announce more details prior to Memorial Day weekend.
Shorelines | FEATURE
BREWING up something new
Jerome Parnell will introduce a lake-inspired beer this summer -/",9ĂŠ 9ĂŠ ,,9ĂŠ ĂŠUĂŠ* "/" , * 9ĂŠ 9ĂŠ ĂŠ " Those who enjoy a cold beer on a warm day are in for a real treat this summer when a new brew is released from taps around Smith Mountain Lake. Dam Lager – named for the structure that created and retains SML – is the brainchild of lake resident Jerome Parnell. "Our goal is to convert lite beer drinkers to enjoy beer that is locally brewed and hand-crafted," said Parnell, who grew up spending summers at the lake with family, and whose mother, Rory Parnell, helped open The Little Gallery at Bridgewater Plaza in 1986. "We hope to have Dam Lager at several establishments around the lake beginning Memorial Day weekend. As production ramps up, we will be expanding distribution throughout the summer," he said. For Parnell, an executive for International Bio Resources, a biopharmaceuticals ďŹ rm headquartered in Louisiana, the beer business is a hobby/occupation. "My job requires a lot of travel," he said. "I kept noticing that many places have a microbrewery and a following for its local brews. Southwest Virginia was lacking in that regard," he said. Parnell also had a craft-brew inuence in his own family. While
ď ° SML resident Jerome Parnell is working with Roanoke Railhouse Brewery to a hand-crafted beer dedicated to Smith Mountain Lake. 5 2produe May • June 2010 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
a student at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, he gave his dad, Jerry, a home-brewing kit as a Father’s Day gift. "The ďŹ rst beer was a disaster," Parnell recalled, "but Dad stuck with it and often shared his home-brewed beer with family and friends on holidays and here at SML." Three years ago, Parnell began talking to Steve Davidson, president of Roanoke Railhouse Brewery, about producing a hand-crafted beer dedicated to the lake area. Learning that Davidson was wrestling with the question of how best to distribute his local brews, Parnell formed Lakeside Imports and Distributing, LLC. Based in Roanoke, the company is licensed to sell beer wholesale throughout Virginia. It services more than 80 taps at restaurants and pubs in and around Roanoke and Blacksburg. Lakeside is the exclusive distribution agent for brands produced by Railhouse and two other local brewing companies. "We’ve had excellent response to locally brewed beers," Parnell said. In fact, Railhouse, located in the Wimmer Tire building on McClanahan Street, is currently doubling its production. Lakeside has plans to add more trucks, personnel and regional coverage this year as the craft beer revolution gains further footing in Southwest Virginia. CONTINUED ON PAGE 54
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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To read the original stories, log on to smithmountainlake.com/10.
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
MEET US AT THE SWVA BOAT SHOW FEB. 25-27th
YOU CAN DO IT ALL IN A HURRICANE. Catch a wake. Catch a fish. Catch some rays. If you’re looking for fun on the water, you’ll find it all with Hurricane boats. Designed to make everyone happy, Hurricane offers three deck boat styles all featuring resilient quality materials, spacious floor plans and an extensive list of features. That means more choices for where to go and what to do, regardless of the type of water you’re on. The leader in deckboats for over 30 years, Hurricane knows how to get the most out of boating. All day entertainment. Since its beginning in 1977, Webster Marine has been a family owned and operated, full-service marine center on beautiful Smith Mountain Lake in Southwest Virginia. Located adjacent to Halesford Bridge, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea Doo sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Stop by today and check out all the great deals.
540-297-5228 • 800-325-9110 • WebsterMarine.com 1185 Mills Road, Moneta, VA 24121 • Off Route 122, North of Hales Ford Bridge
Webster Marine Hales Ford Bridge
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
3 1
Photography by Huong Fralin
32
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
10
questions with
Micah Gaudio’s love of Smith Mountain Lake was cultivated nearly a decade before he published the first issue of the Laker. While attending nearby Liberty University from 1992 to 1995, he often would visit SML to wakeboard on its quiet waters. After graduating with degrees in advertising/public relations and media production, Gaudio moved to Florida, where he worked for some of the largest advertising agencies in the state as well as GE Healthcare. He married Shannon Owens in the backyard of her parents’ home on the Blackwater in 1998, and the couple soon began toying with the idea of returning to the SML area. After making the move in May 2001, Gaudio started GO Agency, a full-service advertising agency, and launched the first issue of the Laker later that summer. For the next seven years, he served as the magazine’s publisher, chief photographer, ad salesman, creative director and graphic designer while building an in-house staff and corps of freelance writers and photographers. In May 2007, Gaudio sold the publication to The Roanoke Times. The company merged operations with the newspaper’s weekly community publication, The Lake (now Laker Weekly), to form Laker Media. Since then, Gaudio, 36, has been busy ramping up his ad agency and Wake N Skate, a board and apparel shop at Bridgewater
Plaza he purchased in 2008. In addition, he was instrumental in the startup of Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy, the nondenominational private school his children – McKenna-Kate, 8, and Cash, 5 – attend. He continues to serve on the school’s board of directors. As the Laker heads in to its second decade, we thought it appropriate to check in with the man who started it all.
Q:
- Andie Gibson, Editor
What factors led to your decision to move to SML and start the magazine?
A: At the time, I was working for the second largest ad agency in Tampa. I felt like I was achieving everything, and it wasn’t enough. There was so much paperwork and red tape. It was so inefficient. But it was really the evolution of desktop publishing and digital photography that allowed us to put out this magazine in a small market. It drove down the hard costs. I saw this technology evolving and knew I could do it at SML. CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
3 3
shorelines | PROFILE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
Q: What was your original vision for the magazine? A: Originally, I wanted to connect the lake. I was doing research and realized it was very fragmented, so I wanted to bring it all together. It also was going to be a heavily online project. I truly thought in three years we would reduce the print version and it would mostly be online. But people really came to embrace the print version, and it just got bigger and better. And that was my goal, to make each issue better than the last. The bonus is that I got to meet new people and have fun doing it. Q: Does it surprise you how the magazine has evolved over the past 10 years? A: I was challenged right off the bat. I remember the very first night we were here, I was talking to some locals at the Dudley Mart, and they were laughing at the prospect of a magazine dedicated to Smith Mountain Lake. I knew it wasn’t going to be an issue to find unique people to meet here. I knew there were always going to be great things to write about. … It’s a brand that has survived when other publications have come and gone. It’s been able to hold course even in the down economy, and that’s because the staff has been able to maintain consistently high quality. Q: What did you enjoy best about your years as publisher of the Laker? A: Taking photos and working on covers. I also enjoyed meeting new and interesting people at the lake, any kind of photo shoot on the water, and publisher’s rants! Q: What have you enjoyed most about life since selling the magazine? A: Spending more time with my family, helping out the community with the school and exploring other interests I didn’t have the time to do before. I’ve also enjoyed growing the ad agency. Q: What is your focus now for GO Agency? A: It’s all about social media, Google, Facebook, building websites that people can manage themselves. And it’s working. Businesses are seeing results. I’m a marketer at heart, so whenever there are results, I’m happy.
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
ABOVE From top, former publisher Micah Gaudio takes a turn wakesurfing during the cover shoot for the July/August 2006 issue; with hair back in the early years; hamming it up with his “backup camera” for the January/February 2007 issue.
Q: After selling the magazine, you poured a lot of effort into getting SML Christian Academy up and running. How has that experience been? A: That’s probably been the biggest challenge of my life, keeping that going. But it was needed at the lake. I saw so many great young families leaving the lake because of the proximity of the upper-grade schools [in Rocky Mount] and the fact that there was no Christian-based alternative. In addition to expanded healthcare, I think the school was the thing most needed to balance out this community.
Q: You also indulged your passion – wakeboarding – by purchasing Wake N Skate. Is operating a retail shop all you imagined it to be?
LEFT A caricature of Micah Gaudio by Roanoke artist Kyle Edgell appeared in the February/March 2005 issue.
it. Now, that isn’t the mindset. It’s changed tremendously, especially since 2005 and 2006. There’s not that anti-growth mentality. It’s more of a feeling that growth is going to happen, let’s make the best of it.
A: I’ve been on all sides of business except retail, so it’s been great getting that experience. I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned to [GO Agency] clients so that has been positive. And it’s kept me plugged into the lake.
Q: What are your predictions for the lake for the next 10 years?
Q: How has the business climate at the lake changed in the past 10 years? A: In the beginning, there was a good-old-boy network. People were hesitant to do business with you if you weren’t born and raised here. Some didn’t want growth at all and would fight
A: I can’t really give any predictions, so how about a wish list? At some point the construction will have to start back up, we’ll have a wakeboard cable park, SMLCA will include K-12 grades, the second Bridgewater Pointe tower will be built and the Laker Magazine will be 200 pages.
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I highly recommend the professionals at Kitchens by Connie, they are wonderful to work with, the beauty and functionality of the cabinetry -exceeded our expectations. We get compliments on the design and craftsmanship throughout the house where no detail was Everything you expect from Smith Mountain Lake’s most experienced and respected cabinetry company.overlooked. —Cindi Hendricks
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
THE v tes 10
A
h av e
W
TH ANNUAL
AR
1 D S • 20
1
b e e n
ta l l i ed
Now it’s time to crown the winners of the 10th Annual Best of Smith Mountain Lake Awards.
From businesses to restaurants to lifestyle happenings around SML, you let your voices be heard in our online voting. So, without further ado, we present the Best of Smith Mountain Lake Awards for 2011.
Congratulations to all the winners!
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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Best 2 0 1 1
P l a t i n u m
B e s t
o f
S M L
G o l d
b u s i n ess Old Oak Café 540.719.3388
Beyond the Green 540.296.0871
Capps Home Building Center 540.721.2276 Westlake Automotive Service 540.721.0700 Bridgewater Marina 540.721.1639 Turner’s Building, Inc. 540.576.2678 Interiors by Kris 540.721.5246
The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 Lake Auto Repair 540.721.5823 Webster Marine Center 540.297.5228 Plyler Homes & Docks 540.721.8362 Envisions 540.719.1500
Best New Business
Best Customer Service Best Auto Service Best Marina Best Dock Builder Best Home Décor Store or Service
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
A w a r d s
S i l v e r
Tie: Ginger's Jewelry 540.483.0779 Tuscan Tavern 540.297.8900 Gifts Ahoy 540.721.5303 Liquid Lube & Wash 540.719.0964 Crazy Horse Marina 540.721.1587 Michael Dillon Custom Docks 540.721.1699 The Cottage Gate 540.721.5712
Best Interior Designer Best Landscaping & Lawn Care Best Clothing Boutique Best Hair Salon or Stylist Best Skin Care or Day Spa Best Manicure/ Pedicure
Best Jewelry Store
Best Gift Shop
Best Pet Care
P l a t i n u m
G o l d
S i l v e r
Kris Willard, Interiors by Kris 540.721.5246 Seven Oaks Landscaping 540.489.3715 Bridgewater Sportswear 540.721.1040 Eric and Co. Premiere Salon 540.721.7336 Westlake Massage 540.721.1192 Modern Nails 540.719.1100
Janice Thurman, Envisions 540.719.1500 Lakescapes Nursery 540.576.2781 Kara’s Closet 540.296.1110 Salon at Westlake 540.721.3141 Pure Spa at Mariners Landing 540.297.9860 Westlake Salon & Spa 540.719.4247
Haywood’s Jewelers 540.721.2210
Westlake Jewelry 540.721.3366
The Cottage Gate 540.721.5622
Gifts Ahoy 540.721.5303
Pat Cundiff, PAC Interiors 540.489.4399 D&P Landscaping 540.420.3728 The Cottage Gate 540.721.5712 BBC Hair Studio of Westlake 540.719.2217 Salon One 540.719.0025 Pure Spa at Mariners Landing 540.297.9860 Tie: Ginger's Jewelry 540.483.0779 Carter’s Fine Jewelers 540.483.0779 The General Store 540. 721.3009
Westlake Veterinary Medical Center 540.721.1557
Smith Mountain Lake Animal Hospital 540.297.9188
Bark Avenue Grooming 540.719.2591
resta u ra n t S Bruno Silva The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028
Mark Crim The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333
Chris Mushall Jonathan's Restaurant 540.719.1212
The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333
The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028
Jonathan's Restaraurant 540.719.1212
Best Breakfast
Old Oak Café 540.719.3388
The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333
Hot Shots 540.719.1547
Best Lunch
Hot Shots 540.719.1547
Old Oak Café 540.719.3388
Best Buffet
Joe’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant 540.721.2422
Chopsitcks 540.721.8839
Moosie’s Restaurant 540.721.5255 Tie: Old Oak Café 540.719.3388 Benjamin’s at The Pointe 540.297.4900
Best Chef
Best Restaurant Service
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
3 9
P l a t i n u m
G o l d
Moosie’s Restaurant 540.721.5255
The Mouse Trap 540.721.4997
The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 Mango’s Bar & Grill 540.721.1632 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 Jonathan's Restaurant 540.719.1212 The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333 The Blackwater Cafe 540.721.4333
Hot Shots 540.719.1547 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 Tuscan Tavern 540.297.8900 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028
Best Place to Stay Overnight
Bernard’s Landing 800.572.2048
Mariners Landing 800.851.4988
Best Place to Take a Visitor
Bridgewater Plaza
Peaks of Otter
Best Sandwich
Best Burger Best Steak Best Seafood Best Desserts Best International Cuisine Best Outdoor Dining Best Place to Come by Boat Best Bar Atmosphere Best Cocktail Best Wine Selection
l i fest y le
Best Kid/Family Outing Best Local Band 40
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Hot Shots 540.719.1547 Barefoot West
Bridgewater Plaza Mango's Bar & Grill 540.721.1632 Jonathan's Restaurant 540.719.1212 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028
S i l v e r Tie: No Bologna 540. 721.1414 Old Oak Café 540.719.3388 Moosie’s Restaurant 540.721.5255 Jonathan's Restaurant 540.719.1212 Benjamin’s at The Pointe 540.297.4900 Jonathan's Restaurant 540.719.1212 Chopsticks 540.721.8839 Benjamin’s at The Pointe 540.297.4900 Moosie’s Restaurant 540.721.5255 Beyond the Green 540.296.0871 The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028 Kroger at Westlake 540.721.3102
LoveStone Inn 540.296.0510 Tie: Mariners Landing 540-297-4900 Bernard's Landing 540.721.8870
Bridgewater Plaza
SML State Park
Dragonfly
The Worx
Best Place to Hear Live Music Best Private Golf Course Best Public Golf Course
P l a t i n u m
G o l d
S i l v e r
Mango's Bar & Grill 540.721.1632 The Water’s Edge Country Club 540.576.1556 The Westlake Golf & Country Club 540.721.3845
Mariners Landing 540.297.4900 The Waterfront Country Club 540.721.2397
The Landing Restaurant 540.721.3028
Mariners Landing Golf & Country Club 800.851.4988
Sycamore Ridge Golf Club 540.297.6490
Congratulations $100 gift certificate winners! Capps Home Building Center - Jeff Schott, Moneta Jonathan's Restaurant - Frances Pratt, Huddleston Bluebird Bakery / Moneta BBQ - Deborah Wargo, Union Hall The Landing Restaurant - Teresa Clemons, Wirtz Mariners Landing - Dan Legue, Bristow
Names were chosen at random from all eligible entries.
Experience the Seven Oaks Difference O S
• Full Service Landscape Installation and Turf Maintenance • Outdoor Living Areas, Patios, Walkways, Kitchens, Fireplaces, Fire Pits • Natural Stone Walls & Walkways • Shoreline Restoration/Landscape Buffers • Seasonal Color/Annual Planting • Erosion, Sediment Control & Stabilization • Rain Gardens & Wetland Restoration
O C
• A Personable Approach To Outstanding Customer Service • Annual In-House Job Specific Training For All Employees • We Utilize a Broad Network Of Supporting Specialists • Dale Carnegie Communication Training Required For Management Personnel • Precision Scheduling To Ensure On-Time & On-Budget Completion Of Your Project
C S C
540.489.3715
Established in 1991 • P.O. Box 49, Redwood VA 24146 • Proud member of the following associations
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
4 1
Over 26 Years of Building Experience
PD&M’s most recent Gold Certified EarthCraft home for the McCloskey’s in Bedford County.
Building GREEN at SML! PD&M is Smith Mountain Lake’s premier green residential builder. We are members of the United States Green Building Council and ENERGY STAR. We have been building environmentally friendly, high performance homes for decades using only the best sub-contractors and vendors who share our philosophy that every home is built as if it were our own. We are pleased to announce that the recently completed home featured above received the area’s first Gold Rating from ENERGY STAR and EarthCraft. Ê
U Most energy efficient home in the area with energy savings of 40% (third party verified) over conventionally built homes
Ê
U Owners will receive a 100% return on investment in 3-5 years, with a lifetime of savings
Ê
U Many features are currently eligible for federal tax credits
We can’t thank you enough for the attention and care you are giving to our new home. Stating the obvious, the weather has been unusually windy, cold and snowy and makes progress difficult. We understand. We appreciate the care which you exercise to make sure that the work is structurally sound in spite of the difficult conditions. The Earth Craft design is looking like a real good choice up on that windy ridge.
Let us provide you with an affordable energy solution for your next home
PD&M, General Contractors 16575 Moneta Road 540-297-4045 • www.PDandM.com 42
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Coming In The March/April Issue
HOME GUIDE 2011
A comprehensive list of the area's building and home professionals
Laker Magazine
Home Guide Participation Form To list your SML-area home-building related business in our FREE guide, please fax this completed form to 540.721.4627 or e-mail the information to editor@smithmountainlaker.com by Jan. 28, 2011.
Company Name: (exactly how you’d like it to appear)
Address: City:
State:
Phone: Web address:
ZIP:
Fax:
E-mail address:
Contact Name: Year established:
Number of employees:
Specialties (limit 3): 1
2
3
The Home Guide listing is FREE. If you would like information on placing an ad to further showcase your business, please contact advertising executive Tim Dye at 540.721.4675, ext 409 or check here to have Tim contact you.
Fax back to 540.721.4627 or e-mail the information to editor@smithmountainlaker.com. All form fields must be complete. Deadline is Jan. 28, 2011.
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
4 3
You want a bank that knows Smith Mountain Lake.
Your bank is here.
Convenient Locations in Franklin County: Rocky Mount Main Office 400 Old Franklin Turnpike 540-489-3400
ClearView Railing
Glass Deck Railing & Aluminum Fence Systems
Innovative • Maintenance-Free William Traylor
41 Roanoke Landing Circle • Hardy, Virginia 24101
540-890-9620(bus/fax) 540-761-8058(cell) R54player@netzero.com
www.excellrailing.com
Westlake Towne Center Smith Mountain Lake 540-721-1600
Those lucky enough to call Smith Mountain Lake home know they don’t have to sacrifice convenience and service when it comes to personal and business banking. Franklin Community Bank offers a diverse range of products and friendly, personal service. Stop by today and let us show you why Franklin Community Bank is your clear choice.
Southlake Office Union Hall 540-576-1218
www.fcbva.com MEMBER FDIC
Looking For A Great Dentist?...
FREE
Bleaching Kit From now until the end of the February, we are offering all NEW patients a FREE bleaching kit. Also, all new or existing patients can get a $100 off in-office Sapphire whitening.*
COMPLETE FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY ERIC J. SMITH, DDS, PC 540-297-7737 • www.ericjsmithdds.com 4860 Rucker Rd Suite 3, Moneta, VA 24121 *Value — $75 Take Home Bleaching kit or $383.00 in-office Sapphire Whitening 44
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Spring, summer, fall or winter. When it comes to weddings, every season can be splendid at Smith Mountain Lake. In this year’s Wedding Guide, you’ll find profiles, tips, advice and an extensive list of vendors – everything you need to enjoy the perfect SML wedding any time of year.
2 0 1 1 S m i th
M o u n ta i n
L ake
wedding guide
Cover photo by Debrah Woods, Inspiration & Design Photography SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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G U I D E W E D D I N G 2 0 1 1 S M L
Tara and Chris Slusser May 15, 2010 Bernard's Landing
Story by Lindsey Wagnon Photography by Stacey Salerno of Your Life Photography
S P R I N G
R
oanoke natives Tara and Chris Slusser were married at Bernard’s Landing Resort and Conference Center last May amidst rustic garden decorations. The fresh bouquets of white flowers and ivy and the vintage landscape signs gave the wedding the look and feel of spring’s delicate unveiling. Tara Slusser said she had a distinct vision for her wedding day and relied on the help of family members and friends to create the do-it-yourself details. “My mother and I did the majority of the planning and designing,” she said. “We put together all the bouquets and flower arrangements two days before the wedding. Instead of having a large wedding cake, we opted for mini-brownie cakes made by my mother.”
“We wanted a time of the year where it wasn’t too hot or too cold. May is a great month where the temperature isn’t unbearable and the nights still have a cool breeze.” Tara Slusser
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
The black-and-white color theme provided the bride plenty of opportunity for creative use of color. “I really wanted to use a pop of color throughout the decorations,” she said. “To do this, we used vintage multi-color buttons as well as green roses, red, pink and yellow berries. We also incorporated multi-color goldfish into our centerpieces.” Guests of the Slusser wedding were treated to a homemade photo booth - the groom’s special project. “The photo booth consisted of a wooden frame that had vintage white picture frames attached. Guests used [replicas of] mustaches and lips attached to sticks to create fun and memorable pictures,” Tara Slusser said. In addition to the creative attractions, guests were impressed with the lakeside surroundings. “Bernard’s Landing is a beautiful location, especially in the evenings,” Slusser said. “Our guests really enjoyed overlooking Smith Mountain Lake during the ceremony and reception as well as watching the sun set on the lake.” Of course, the bride and groom were focused on a more important aspect of their big day - one another.
“The highlight for me was when the limo pulled away and there Tara stood,” Chris Slusser said. “She was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.”
Think Spring
Specializing in fresh seafood, prime beef, and local and organic vegetables. The Dam Bar will remain open this winter Thursday-Saturday, opening at 5. Full service catering is always available!
“Spring is a wonderful time to have a wedding because it always brings the new trends of the year. But spring weddings are popular at the lake, so brides who want a wedding in April, May or June need to plan ahead.” —Kerry Keeney, Smith Mountain Lake Weddings “In spring, you’re going to beat the crowds, and overnight accommodations are usually cheaper.” —Lori Phillips, Bernard’s Landing Resort and Conference Center “Mother Nature is unpredictable in the spring, so definitely have a great back-up plan prepared if you want an outdoor wedding. It’s a good idea to choose a venue that also has an indoor option.” —Scott Cooper, The Westlake Golf & Country Club
540.297.2072
16111 Smith Mountain Lake Pkwy. Huddleston, Va 24104 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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G U I D E W E D D I N G S U M M E R
S M L
2 0 1 1
September 5, 2010 At home on the Blackwater
Whitney and Bryan Auferio Story by Lindsey Wagnon Photography by Debrah Woods, Inspiration & Design Photography
W
hitney and Bryan Auferio picked Smith Mountain Lake as their dream wedding location long before they became engaged. “Ever since my parents built their home on SML, we’ve always hoped that it would serve as the venue for our special day,” said Whitney Auferio. “We were engaged in September so it was a no-brainer to have that month host our marriage celebration amid our seasonal melon orange and baby blue details. It was a wonderful cloudless, blue-skied, 80-degree day.”
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
The couple had a 10-year courtship, living several states apart – Whitney in North Carolina and Bryan in New Jersey. Their wedding day served as a perfect opportunity to have family and friends from each place meet near the middle. “Most guests had never been to SML before and those that had, jumped at the opportunity to return,” Whitney said. “We continue to hear comments about how beautiful the lake is. The atmosphere and scenery at SML provided the perfect get-away for all.” Not only was the SML scenery a hit, so were the personalized details the bride and groom picked
Splendid Summer “A summer wedding means everything is open. It’s the time to really get the overall picture of Smith Mountain Lake.” —Lori Phillips, Bernard’s Landing Resort and Conference Center “In summer, you can find any variety of flower, and the prices are at their lowest compared to every other season.” —Linda Cote, Mountain Treasures Florist & Gifts “During the summer months, we’re able to use a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to create the freshest meals. So much local and organic produce is at its peak in the summer.” —Tiffany Silva, The Landing Restaurant
to enhance the wedding-day experience. Whitney said she and Bryan thought it was important to embrace the lake surroundings. “Before reciting our personal vows, Bryan and I retreated alone to the dock for a very special lighting-of-the-lanterns ceremony, during which three separate lanterns were released on the lake, each with its own dedication,” she said. One lantern was in memory of lost loved ones, the second dedicated to the memory of the groom’s mother. The third lantern represented the couple’s marital unity. “In lieu of a guest book, we decided to use two white rocking chairs with colored markers [for guests to sign],” Whitney said. “We hope to be enjoying those chairs for years to come, hopefully at a house of our own on SML someday.”
“While late summer is typically gorgeous on the lake, it can also prove to be risky planning an outdoor event. ... If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, check the Farmer’s Almanac for historic weather trends.” Whitney Auferio
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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G U I D E
October 3, 2009 Mariners Landing
F A L L
S M L
Kristen and Landon Smith Story by Lindsey Wagnon Photography by Christi Austin Photography
C
ollege sweethearts Kristen and Landon Smith made the most of Smith Mountain Lake’s fall atmosphere throughout their wedding festivities. Their October 2009 ceremony and reception featured a stunning mountain and lake backdrop at Mariners Landing Resort Community and Conference Center. “We chose to have a fall wedding because of the weather and the beautiful fall colors,” Kristen Smith said. “Since we are both Virginia Tech alumni, we were drawn to orange and maroon and the beautiful fall foliage.” To further capitalize on the views and autumn colors, the couple planned their rehearsal dinner to take place on one of the lake’s most famous icons. “Our rehearsal dinner was held aboard the Virginia Dare, which most of our guests thought was particularly unique and fitting being that we were getting married on the lake,” said
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Smith. “During the rehearsal dinner we served a custom-made Virginia Tech groom’s cake.” Smith said being a Hokie fan and the fall season played a big role in her color choices. “My flowers were primarily orange and maroon with traces of yellow. My bridesmaids wore cinnamon-colored dresses, which looked beautiful with their bouquets. Our table linens, invitations and decorations were a mix of chocolate brown and ivory with accents of cinnamon,” she said. For Smith, the most memorable parts of the day were both surprises to her. “Landon sang Adam Sandler’s ‘I Want to Grow Old With You’ from the movie ‘The Wedding Singer’ to me. I was completely shocked and it brought me to tears,” she said. The second special experience: “A few of our friends planned for the Hokie Bird to be at our wedding. It was one of our best wedding gifts and definitely the highlight of the night.”
‘We chose the beginning of October in hopes that it would still be warm enough for an outdoor ceremony, which it was. The weather was perfect.’ Kristen Smith
Autumn Opportunity  “In fall, you have the lake, mountains and the beautiful color. It’s a more serene setting. There’s a golden opportunity there.â€?—Teresa Bernard, Studio Belle Visage Photography  “Ask venues for pictures of weddings from previous years in the same month to give you a better idea of fall colors, maintenance of the grounds, etc.â€?— Kerry Keeney, Smith Mountain Lake Weddings  “In fall, we get to decorate lavishly with mums, pumpkins and gourds. I’ve heard many couples say that they don’t have to add anything to the beauty of the grounds because our fall decorations are enough.â€? —Dawn Spencer, LoveStone Inn
Three elegant venues for weddings, receptions, business functions and events at Smith Mountain Lake.
Jen Hunt Photography
Contact our staff for availability and rates today to start planning your event. golfthewestlake.com
540.721.3845
thewaterfrontcc.com
540.721.2397
thewatersedgecc.com
540.576.1556
$BUFSJOH 4FSWJDFT t 0O 4JUF 1BSLJOH 7BSJPVT 3PPN $BQBDJUJFT t 8JSFMFTT *OUFSOFU &WFOU 4FUVQ BOE $MFBOVQ
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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G U I D E W E D D I N G W I N T E R
S M L
2 0 1 1
December 30, 2009 The Waterfront Country Club
Anita and Eric Stachelski Story by Lindsey Wagnon Photography by Christi Austin Photography
M
usic teacher Eric Stachelski’s first visit to the Royal Palms Restaurant in Grand Cayman Island turned out to be a date with destiny. Having recently moved from Oregon to Grand Cayman, Stachelski was eager to explore the area and meet people. As fate would have it, he met Anita Brogan that evening. “We spent the night chatting, dancing and having a nice time. I, of course, asked for her phone number on a card, which I still carry in my wallet,” Stachelski said. The couple became engaged on New Year’s Eve 2007, and then started on what to them was the difficult task of choosing a wedding location. 52
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
“Since I am American, Anita is from England and we live in the Cayman Islands, our families and friends live all over the world,” said Stachelski. “Deciding even on a country was a difficult choice. We knew we needed lots of places for our family and friends to stay and a picturesque place to have the ceremony and reception.” Smith Mountain Lake was high on the initial list of possible locations because it’s where Stachelski’s parents live, and it’s a spot where the bride and groom have enjoyed visiting. “After some discussion with both of our families, we knew SML would be an ideal place for our wedding,” said Stachelski. “It has plenty for rentals, and because it was off season, they were less expensive. Finally, since we had many
Why Winter? “A lot of the venues are more readily available during the winter months. Couples have access to areas they may not be able to afford in June, July or September.” — Teresa Bernard, Studio Belle Visage Photography “January through March is typically a pretty slow catering season. In order to book our calendar for those slow months, we definitely pass on the deals.” — Karen Schopp, Center Stage Catering “A Christmas, New Year’s or Valentine’s Day wedding can be a wonderful way to celebrate holidays with your family and friends.” — Kerry Keeney, Smith Mountain Lake Weddings
people from the United Kingdom traveling to our wedding, I wanted a place that would really show off Virginia and America. SML is that place.” The couple set a date of Dec. 30, 2009, which fit in nicely with holiday time off for long-distance family and friends. Both the ceremony and reception took place at The Waterfront Country Club. Stachelski said the winter season fit their needs perfectly. “In wintertime, SML turns into a quiet place. During spring, summer and fall, the lake can be quite busy and a little noisy. But during our wedding, we felt we had the whole lake to ourselves,” he said.
“Most of our guest list was people who had never been to Smith Mountain Lake, and some who had never been to America. All of them were taken aback by SML’s natural beauty.” Eric Stachelski
84 WESTLAKE RD. • (NEXT TO KROGER) • 540 721-2210
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
5 3
SERVICES / SPECIALTIES
Advertising Specialties and Promotions
13860 B. T. Washington Hwy., #104, Moneta
s RVASAP COM
Personalized gifts, SML-related items
Bridgewater Sportswear
16430 B. T. Washington Hwy., Moneta
s BRIDGEWATERPLAZA COM
SML items, clothing, gift items
Brooks Mill Winery
6221 Brooks Mill Rd., Wirtz
s BROOKSMILLWINERY COM
Wine, wine-related gifts, SML souvenir T-shirts
Carter’s Fine Jewelers and Gifts
400 Market Place, Ste. 117, Rocky Mount
540.483.0779
Bridal registry, gifts for all
Diamond Hill General Store
1017 Diamond Hill Rd., Moneta
s DIAMONDHILLGENERALSTORE NET
Wine shop, gift shop, garden center
Emerson Creek Pottery
1068 Pottery Lane, Bedford
s EMERSONCREEKPOTTERY COM
(ANDCRAFTED CERAMIC POTTERY FOR KITCHEN BATH AND MORE
Gifts Ahoy
16430 B.T. Washington Hwy., Ste. 15, Moneta
s BRIDGEWATERPLAZA COM
Vera Bradley items, candles, cards, SML-related items
Ginger’s Jewelers
16525 B.T. Washington Highway, Moneta
s GINGERSJEWELRYONLINE COM
Jewelry, paintings, home accessories
Haywood’s Jewelers Westlake
84 Westlake Road, Ste. 103, Hardy
s HAYWOODSJEWELERS COM
&INE JEWELRY BRIDAL SETS GIFTWARE WATCHES CLOCKS AND OTHER GIFTS
Hickory Hill Vineyards & Winery
1722 Hickory Cove Lane, Moneta
s HICKORYHILLVINEYARDS COM
Wine and wine-related gifts
Homestead Creamery
7254 B. T. Washington Hwy., Wirtz
540.721.2045
Local gift items, ice cream cakes
Kara’s Closet
16545 Moneta Rd., Moneta
540.296.1110
Women’s apparel, shoes, accessories
Peaks of Otter Winery
2122 Sheep Creek Rd., Bedford
s PEAKSOFOTTERWINERY COM
Wine and fruit-related gift items
The Cottage Gate
84 Westlake Road, Ste. 13, Hardy
s THECOTTAGEGATEONLINE COM
Metal alloy serving pieces, home furnishings, personalized gifts
2 0 1 1
G U I D E
PHONE / WEBSITE
The General Store and Quilt Shack
213 Scruggs Rd., Moneta
s GENERALSTORESML COM
Laser engravings, local food items, local artists, quilting items
The Little Gallery
16430 B.T. Washington Hwy., Ste. 6, Moneta
s THELITTLEGALLERYSML COM
(ANDMADE WEDDING JEWELRY LITERARY CALLIGRAPHY BLESSING BOWLS
VitaZen
12787 B. T. Washington Hwy., Ste.103, Hardy
s VITAZEN NET
Soy candles, Himalayan salt crystal lamps, essential oils
Westlake Jewelry
12787 B.T. Washington Hwy. Ste. 104, Hardy
s WESTLAKEJEWELRY COM
&INE JEWELRY COMPUTERIZED ENGRAVINGS FOR JEWELRY OR GLASS
Anne Humphreys & Associates
3TONEBRIDGE #IRCLE 6INTON
s CREATIVECAKESANDSPECIALDATES COM
Wedding and special event cakes
Brenda Maus Signature Cakes
500 Pell Ave., Rocky Mount
540.483.8655
Custom wedding cakes, groom’s cakes
Center Stage Catering
315 Franklin St., Rocky Mount
s CENTERSTAGEFOOD COM
Custom wedding cakes, groom’s cakes
Diane’s Cake Creations
416 Avenel Ave., Bedford
540.586.5978
Custom cakes
Ruthie’s Kitchen
2603 Scruggs Rd., Moneta
540.721.2413
#USTOM CAKES HORS D OEUVRES HOMEMADE BUTTERMINTS
Special Occasion Cakes
623 Woodman Rd, Rocky Mount
540.483.2732 or 540.493.6812
Wedding cakes, groom’s cakes, cupcakes
4HE "LUEBIRD "AKERY
#ELEBRATION !VE 3TE AND -ONETA
s BLUEBIRDBAKERYANDGRILL NET
Wedding and special occasion cakes, catering
W E D D I N G
V E N D O R
ADDRESS
S M L
BUSINESS
2011
wedding guide
Attendant/Parent Gifts
Cakes
54
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Choosing a season to tie the knot at Smith Mountain Lake is easy. The difďŹ cult part is planning the big day! On the following pages is a vendor guide to help provide local resources for everything from rings to reception sites. For guest accommodations, be sure to check out our Lodging Guide, which begins on Page 71.
BUSINESS
ADDRESS
PHONE / WEBSITE
SERVICES / SPECIALTIES
! #UT !BOVE #ATERING
25286 Virgil Goode Hwy., Boones Mill
s ACUTABOVECATER COM
Full-service catering
Barnyard Catering
P.O. Box 149, Moneta
s BARNYARDCATERING COM
Hand-smoked meats, all food homemade
"ENJAMIN S AT 4HE 0OINTE
'RAVES (ARBOR 4RAIL (UDDLESTON
EXT s MARINERSLANDING COM
Full-service catering
Center Stage Catering
315 Franklin St., Rocky Mount
s CENTERSTAGEFOOD COM
Full-service catering
Small Plates
16111 Smith Mountain Lake Parkway, Huddleston
s SMALLPLATESSML COM
Full-service catering
4HE "LUEBIRD "AKERY -ONETA ""1
#ELEBRATION !VE 3TE AND -ONETA
s BLUEBIRDBAKERYANDGRILL NET
Full-service catering
The Landing Restaurant
773 Ashmeade Rd., Moneta
s THELANDINGSML COM
Custom gourmet menus, lakeside setting, wedding coordination
Vanquility Acres Inn Bed & Breakfast
105 Angus Terrace, Bedford
s VANQUILITYACRESINN COM
Wedding and event planning
Catering
Ceremony/Reception Rentals Aztec Rentals
14070 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta
s AZTECRENTAL COM
Full-service rentals
Grand Rental Station
1000 Vineyard Rd., Vinton
540.343.1000
Full-service rentals
Smith Mountain Lake Weddings
Smith Mountain Lake
s KERRYKEENEY COM
Rental of linens, dĂŠcor items and more
Ceremony/Reception Venues Bernard’s Landing Resort & Conference Center
775 Ashmeade Rd., Moneta
s BERNARDSLANDING COM
Full-service lakeside facilities; couples may choose their own catering company
Hickory Hill Vineyards & Winery
1722 Hickory Cove Lane, Moneta
s HICKORYHILLVINEYARDS COM
Outdoor setting overlooking the vineyard
LoveStone Inn
100 Summer Ln., Huddleston
s LOVESTONEINN COM
Full-service wedding planning included in site fee
Mariners Landing Resort Community and Conference Center
'RAVES (ARBOR 4RAIL (UDDLESTON
s MARINERSLANDING COM
Lakeside ceremony services, indoor reception facilities, catering
Parkway Marina
16918 Smith Mountain Lake Parkway, Huddleston
s PARKWAYMARINA COM
Full service-marina, on-site lakefront pavilion, dock privileges
Sundara
453 Apple Rd., Boones Mill
s MYSUNDARA COM
Special-event venue with historic 1800s home in mountain setting
The Landing Restaurant
773 Ashmeade Rd., Moneta
s THELANDINGSML COM
Custom gourmet menus, lakeside setting, wedding coordination
4HE 7ESTLAKE 'OLF #OUNTRY #LUB
360 Chestnut Creek Dr., Hardy
s GOLFTHEWESTLAKE COM
Full-service ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner venue
Vanquility Acres Inn Bed & Breakfast
105 Angus Terrace, Bedford
s VANQUILITYACRESINN COM
Wedding and event planning
Virginia Dare Cruises
3619 Airport Rd., Moneta
s VADARECRUISES COM
#USTOMIZABLE SERVICES ABOARD A TH CENTURY REPLICA SIDE WHEELER
W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center
755 Hermitage Rd., Wirtz
s SKELTON HCENTER ORG
Full service-ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner venue; Indoor and lakeside options
CONTINUED ON PAGE 56 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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BUSINESS
ADDRESS
PHONE / WEBSITE
SERVICES / SPECIALTIES
McMillan & Wife
340 Windridge Parkway, Hardy
s MCMILLANANDWIFEPHOTOGRAPHY COM
$AY OF WEDDING DIRECTING mOWERS AND DECORATING SERVICES
-OUNTAIN 4REASURES
" 4 7ASHINGTON (WY 3TE (ARDY
540.721.0092
&ULL SERVICE mORAL DELIVERY
3MITH -OUNTAIN &LOWERS
-ONETA 2D -ONETA
s SMITHMOUNTAINmOWERS NET
&LORAL ARRANGEMENTS DELIVERY
4HE #OTTAGE 'ATE
7ESTLAKE 2OAD 3TE (ARDY
s THECOTTAGEGATEONLINE COM
&LOWER ARRANGEMENTS DECORATING TO lT YOUR STYLE
!MRHEIN S
/GDEN 2D 2OANOKE
s AMRHEINS COM
&ULL SERVICE BRIDAL SHOP
"ESSOLO S 7EDDING !TTIRE
*EFFERSON 3T 2OANOKE
s BESSOLOSDESIGNS COM
#USTOM MADE CLOTHING FOR ALL OCCASIONS
"RIDES (OUSE AND &ORMALS
0ETERS #REEK 2D 2OANOKE
s BRIDESHOUSE COM
&ULL SERVICE BRIDAL SHOP GOWN ALTERATIONS AND PRESERVATIONS
#ELEBRATION "RIDAL AND &ORMAL
-AIN 3T ,YNCHBURG
s CELEBRATIONBRIDAL COM
&ULL SERVICE BRIDAL SHOP
$AVID S "RIDAL
6ALLEY 6IEW "LVD 2OANOKE
s DAVIDSBRIDAL COM
&ULL SERVICE BRIDAL SHOP
#RUISE 0LANNERS
"UCCANEER 2D -ONETA
s PCMCRUISES COM
6ACATION PLANNING AND CONSULTING
3TANGA 4RAVEL
"ULL 2UN 4RAIL 0ENHOOK
s STANGATRAVEL COM
/NLINE VACATION PLANNING
4IME 4RAVEL "IZ
3HAD 2UN $R -ONETA
s TIMETRAVELBIZ COM
6ACATION PLANNING AND CONSULTING
3CRUGGS 2D 3TE -ONETA
s PRINTNPAPER COM
7IDE VARIETY OF INVITATIONS PROGRAMS CRAFT SUPPLIES
!RTHUR S *EWELRY )NC
.ORTH "RIDGE 3T "EDFORD
s ARTHURSJEWELRY COM
&INE JEWELRY DIAMONDS "EDFORD 4IME #OMPANY WATCHES
#ARTER S &INE *EWELERS AND 'IFTS
-ARKET 0LACE 3TE 2OCKY -OUNT
540.483.0779
"RIDAL REGISTRY WIDE ARRAY OF GIFT ITEMS
'INGER S *EWELERS
" 4 7ASHINGTON (IGHWAY -ONETA
s GINGERSJEWELRYONLINE COM
*EWELRY PAINTINGS HOME ACCESSORIES
(AYWOOD S *EWELERS 7ESTLAKE
7ESTLAKE 2OAD 3TE (ARDY
s HAYWOODSJEWELERS COM
&INE JEWELRY BRIDAL SETS GIFTWARE WATCHES CLOCKS AND OTHER GIFTS
Flowers/Decorating
Gowns/Alterations
0RINT . 0APER
Jewelry/Wedding Rings
Spa& Salon PAMPER YOURSELF
Emerson Creek POTTERY FACTORY OUTLET Handmade in Bedford, VA
S M L
2 0 1 1
W E D D I N G
Invitations/Programs/Announcements
G IN IC FF PR O ET 0% TL O 4 OU P T U
V E N D O R
G U I D E
Honeymoon Planning
540-719-4247
westlakesalonandspa.com HAIR SERVICES s FACIALS s MASSAGE s BODY TREATMENTS s SKIN CARE s MANICURES s PEDICURES s WAXING
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January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Winter hours - Thurs-Fri-Sat 10-4, Closed Sun Spring Hours - beginning April 1-Tues thru-Sat 10-4, Closed Sun 0OTTERY ,ANE "EDFORD s www.emersoncreekpottery.com
BUSINESS
ADDRESS
PHONE / WEBSITE
SERVICES / SPECIALTIES
,YON S *EWELERS
,ONGWOOD !VE "EDFORD
s LYONSJEWELERS COM
#USTOM DESIGNED JEWELRY
7ESTLAKE *EWELRY
" 4 7ASHINGTON (WY 3TE (ARDY
s WESTLAKEJEWELRY COM
&INE JEWELRY COMPUTERIZED ENGRAVINGS FOR JEWELRY OR GLASS
%XECUTIVE 4OWN #AR ,IMOUSINE 3ERVICE )NC
3ALEM !VE 37 2OANOKE
s ETCLIMO COM
,IMOUSINE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
0REMIER ,IMOUSINE 3ERVICE
/LD &OREST 2D ,YNCHBURG
s PREMIERLIMOUSINESERVICE NET
,IMOUSINE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
0RESTIGE ,IMOUSINE 3ERVICE
)RVINE 3T 2OANOKE
s PRESTIGELIMOINC COM
,IMOUSINE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
!NNOUNCER "OB
!UTUMN !VE (UDDLESTON
540.297.4605
3PECIAL EVENTS EMCEE
"EGGARS #IRCUS
2OANOKE
s BEGGARSCIRCUS COM
#ELTIC MUSIC
+EVIN *ONES 0ERFORMING !RTS 3TUDIO
2OANOKE
s KJPAS COM
0IANIST AND SINGER
-USIC -USIC -ORE -USIC
$EER #REEK $R "EDFORD
s MUSICMUSICANDMUSIC COM
$* 7ENDELL 7ITT WILL CUSTOMIZE ALL TYPES OF MUSIC FOR RECEPTIONS
/BLIGATO -USIC FOR %LEGANT %VENTS
2OANOKE
s OBLIGATOMUSIC COM
#USTOMIZED CLASSICAL ENSEMBLES
4HE /LD -AN 'ARAGE "AND
&OREST
434.610.4064
#LASSIC ROCK
4HE /LDE 3TUFF "AND
,YNCHBURG
s OLDESTUFFBAND COM
S S ROCK CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY
Limousines
Music
Pampering/Hair/Makeup !NITA S &INISHING 4OUCH 3ALON
3TEWARTSVILLE 2D -ONETA
540.296.0790
3PECIALIZING IN COLOR AND UPDOS
!RBONNE %LIZABETH 7ILLIAMS
-ONETA
s ARBONNE COM
3PECIAL OCCASION MAKEUP SERVICES AND SKIN CARE PRODUCTS
""# (AIR 3TUDIO OF 7ESTLAKE
" 4 7ASHINGTON (WY 3TE -ONETA
540.719.2217
&ORMAL HAIRSTYLING
#ARTER S -ERLE .ORMAN
/LD &RANKLIN 4PKE 3TE 2OCKY -OUNT
s MERLENORMAN COM
"RIDE AND BRIDAL PARTY MAKEOVERS
%RIC #O 0REMIERE 3ALON
" 4 7ASHINGTON (WY (ARDY
540.721.7336
&ULL SERVICE SALON
(AIR $ESIGNS BY 7HITNEY "RANDY
#ELEBRATION !VE 3UITE " -ONETA
540.297.2762
&ORMAL HAIR STYLING AND UPDOS
-ASSAGE 7ORKS
" 4 7ASHINGTON (WY (ARDY
OR
&ULL SERVICE MASSAGE SERVICES CONTINUED ON PAGE 58
Come in for a cup of tea on these cold winter days!
The place to find the very best in fine art, handblown glass, pottery, jewelry and contemporary American crafts. Bridgewater Plaza, Lower Level Moneta, VA 24121 540-721-1596 • Open 7 Days Winter Hours: 10–5 Monday–Saturday 11–5 on Sunday thelittlegallerysml.com
! e k a L e h t t a s d n e r T Latest
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N TH A NUAL
A WA
t e s o l C Kara’s
R D S • 20
11
540-296-1110
16545 Moneta Road, Moneta, VA
Route 122, just north of Hales Ford Bridge (next to the Sunoco Station) SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
5 7
BUSINESS
ADDRESS
PHONE / WEBSITE
SERVICES / SPECIALTIES
Pampering/Hair/Makeup (continued) MD Nails & Spa
13326 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta
540.721.2075
Manicures, pedicures, gift certificates
Modern Nails Spa
400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 1300
540.719.1100
Manicures, pedicures, waxing, nail art, foot spa, gift certificates
Pure Spa at Mariners Landing
1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston
s PURESPASML COM
3KIN CARE TREATMENTS MASSAGE ENHANCEMENTS
Salon at Westlake
13105 B.T. Washintgon Hwy., Hardy
540.721.3141
Full-service hair car services for brides and bridal parties
Salon del Sol
70 Scruggs Rd., Ste. 105, Moneta
540.719.8266
Tanning
Salon One
400 Scruggs Road, Ste 400, Moneta
s SALONONESML COM
-ASSAGE THERABPY FACIALS MANICURES PEDICURES WAXING AND MORE
Tantastic
1123 Celebration Ave., Moneta
540.297.8267
4ANNING SERVICES MASSAGE THERAPY BY APPOINTMENT
Westlake Massage & Spa
70 Scruggs Rd., Ste. 106, Moneta
s WESTLAKEMASSAGE COM
-ASSAGE AND PAMPERING SPA
Westlake Salon & Spa
84 Westlake Rd., Hardy
s WESTLAKESALONANDSPA COM
Full-service salon and spa
S M L
2 0 1 1
W E D D I N G
V E N D O R
G U I D E
Photographers/Videographers Christi Austin Photography
Moneta
s CHRISTIAUSTIN COM
Weddings, portraits, boudoir
*AMES 2ONEY 0HOTOGRAPHY
Huddleston
s JAMESRONEYPHOTOGRAPHY COM
All-inclusive, full-day services for one low price
Jeff East Photography
535 Blue Ridge Ave., Bedford
s JEFFEASTPHOTOGRAPHY COM
7EDDINGS FAMILIES SENIORS
McMillan & Wife
340 Windridge Parkway, Hardy
s MCMILLANANDWIFEPHOTOGRAPHY COM
4WO CAMERA COVERAGE PHOTOJOURNALISM STYLE PRINTING AND FRAMING
Ray Reynolds Photography
3MITH -OUNTAIN ,AKE
s VAPICS COM
Destination weddings, digital photography
Starscape Wedding Videography
Glade Spring
s WEDDINGS STARSCAPEMEDIA COM
(IGH DElNITION WEDDING lLMS AND ENGAGEMENT VIDEOS
Studio Belle Visage
265 Franklin St., Rocky Mount
s STUDIOBELLEVISAGE COM
%NGAGEMENT SESSIONS BRIDAL PORTRAITS WEDDING DAY SERVICES
Taylor-Made Photography
3MITH -OUNTAIN ,AKE
s MYTAYLORMADEPHOTOGRAPHY COM
Wedding photography
Rehearsal Dinner Venues "ENJAMIN S AT 4HE 0OINTE
1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston
EXT s MARINERSLANDING COM
'OURMET FOOD UPSCALE ATMOSPHERE LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEW
"ERNARD S ,ANDING 2ESORT & Conference Center
!SHMEADE 2D -ONETA
s BERNARDSLANDING COM
&ULL SERVICE FACILITIES COUPLES MAY CHOOSE THEIR OWN CATERING COMPANY
Chopsticks Chinese & Sushi
16440 B.T. Washington Hwy., Ste. 203
s BRIDGEWATERPLAZA COM
!CCOMODATES GROUPS UP TO FOR !SIAN CUISINE
Edo Grill and Sushi
1035 Mercantile St., Suite 104, Moneta
540.297.6888
Seats up to 80 for Asian cuisine, including fresh sushi
El Torito Mexican Grill
50 FirstWatch Dr., Ste. 105, Moneta
540.721.3821
!CCOMODATES LARGE GROUPS mAT SCREEN 46S FULL BAR
*OE S 0IZZA )TALIAN 2ESTAURANT
130 Scruggs Rd., Moneta
540.721.2234
)TALIAN ORIENTED REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE
*ONATHAN S 2ESTAURANT
50 FirstWatch Dr., Ste. 101, Moneta
s JONATHANATSML COM
&ULL BAR CUSTOM FOOD ACCOMODATES GROUPS UP TO
-ARINERS ,ANDING 2ESORT #OMMUNITY and Conference Center
1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston
s MARINERSLANDING COM
)NDOOR AND OUTDOOR LUXURY FACILILTIES WATERFRONT LOCATIONS AVAILABLE as well as off-site catering
Moneta BBQ
1123 Celebration Ave., Ste. 101 and 102, Moneta
s BLUEBIRDBAKERYANDGRILL NET
#ASUAL SETTING WITH FAMILY STYLE MEALS
3MALL 0LATES
3MITH -OUNTAIN ,AKE 0ARKWAY (UDDLESTON
s SMALLPLATESSML COM
,AKESIDE RESTAURANT FEATURING GOURMET TAPAS STYLE CUISINE
The Blackwater Cafe
4730 Scruggs Rd., Moneta
s THEBLACKWATERCAFE COM
#USTOMIZABLE GOURMET MENUS INDOOR AND OUTDOOR OPTIONS CAN ACCOMMODATE GROUPS UP TO
The Landing Restaurant
!SHMEADE 2D -ONETA
s THELANDINGSML COM
#USTOM GOURMET MENUS LAKESIDE SETTING LUXURY EVENTS WEDDING coordination
The Westlake Golf & Country Club
360 Chestnut Creek Dr., Hardy
s GOLFTHEWESTLAKE COM
&ULL SERVICE CEREMONY RECEPTION AND REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE
Tuscan Tavern
16483 Moneta Rd., Moneta
540.297.8900
&ULL BAR )TALIAN STYLE DINNER VENUE
Virginia Dare Cruises
3619 Airport Rd., Moneta
s VADARECRUISES COM
"RIDAL SHOWERS FORMAL DINNERS CUSTOMIZABLE RANGE OF SERVICES
W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center
(ERMITAGE 2D 7IRTZ
s SKELTON HCENTER ORG
&ULL SERVICE CEREMONY RECEPTION AND REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE )NDOOR AND LAKESIDE OPTIONS
!MRHEIN S
2740 Ogden Rd., Roanoke
s AMRHEINS COM
Tuxedo sales and rentals
#ELEBRATION "RIDAL AND &ORMAL
920 Main St., Lynchburg
s CELEBRATIONBRIDAL COM
Full-service bridal shop
$AVID S "RIDAL
4873 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke
s DAVIDSBRIDAL COM
Full-service bridal shop
Davidsons
4235 Electric Rd.,Ste., 103, Roanoke
s lNECLOTHIERS COM
Tuxedo sales and rentals
-EN S 7AREHOUSE
4757 Valley View Blvd NW, Roanoke
s MENSWEARHOUSE COM
&ULL SERVICE MEN S FORMAL ATTIRE
Mr. Tuxedo
5325 Peters Creek Rd., Roanoke
s BRIDESHOUSE COM
&ULL SERVICE BRIDAL PRESERVATIONS AND ALTERATIONS PERFORMED ON SITE
!NNE (UMPHREYS !SSOCIATES
2953 Stonebridge Circle, Vinton
s CREATIVECAKESANDSPECIALDATES COM
Wedding planning/coordinating
3IMPLY %LEGANT %VENTS AND $ESIGN
3MITH -OUNTAN ,AKE
s SIMPLYELEGANTEVENTS DESIGN COM
#USTOMIZED PLANNING SERVICES
3MITH -OUNTAIN ,AKE 7EDDINGS
3MITH -OUNTAN ,AKE
s KERRYKEENEY COM
#OMPREHENSIVE WEDDING PLANNING
Tuxedos
Wedding Planners
58
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Now IS THE TIME TO BOOK YOUR GROUP OR PRIVATE CHARTER FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON
• Lunch/Sunday Luncheon • Business Outings • Dinner • Church Groups • Reunions • Hawaiian Cruises • Weddings/Receptions • Sightseeing • Murder Mystery Cruises
Cruises starting at $20
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
WE SHOW YOU THE LAKE LIKE NO ONE ELSE CAN! Call and reserve your seat • 540.297.7100 www.vadarecruises.com
Ve n u e - M a r i n e r s L a n d i n g ; C a k e - B l u e b i r d B a k e r y ; F l o w e r s - C o r s a i r F l o r a l a n d D é c o r
C A P 540-493-1300 l info@christiaustin.com w w w. c h r i s t i a u s t i n . c o m a n d w w w. c o u t u r e p i n u p . c o m
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
5 9
savor | RESTAURANT
that’s
Amore!
Tuscan Tavern Pasta & Grill offers a taste of Italy at Smith Mountain Lake Story
by
Lindsey Wagnon • Photography
by
Huong Fralin
If the mood is easy-going and the food is tasty, you’ll usually find Lakers gathered. At the Tuscan Tavern Pasta & Grill in Moneta, guests are treated to both. But the restaurant’s casual atmosphere, friendly staff and stomach-satiating dishes are just the beginning of why Tuscan Tavern has become a local favorite. CONTINUED ON PAGE 62 60
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
ABOVE Tiramisu, a traditional Italian dessert, is popular at Tuscan Tavern. LEFT Custom murals decorate the restaurant’s interior; owners Tony Hairston and Maria Palumbo greet guests with a smile; a trio of ladies enjoys lunch. SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
6 1
savor | RESTAURANT
“People can buy our specialty pizzas or custom make their pizza for what they like.” Maria Palumbo
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 60
Since the Tavern’s opening in June 2009, customers have been keeping its lunch and dinner dining room full, indulging in authentic Italian cuisine. “We are always busy, especially on the weekends,” said owner Maria Palumbo. “The summertime is very busy, but the winter is not much slower.” The restaurant, located on Virginia 122 just north of Hales Ford Bridge, was established by Palumbo and her husband, Tony Hairston. Cooking Italian fare for a living runs in Palumbo’s family. Her father moved the family to Pennsylvania from Italy in 1980 and started a restaurant. Palumbo, who learned both the culinary and business aspect of being a restaurateur by working in the family business, said she puts her special touch on all of the tavern’s recipes. “All of the food made here is my recipe,” she said. “I also make most of the desserts, like tiramisu, cheesecake and lemon cake, and even birthday cakes if people request them.”
Clockwise from top: The White Pizza includes ricotta and mozzarella cheese, garlic, tomatoes and choice of broccoli or spinach; an entry sign greets patrons in English and Italian; the cozy bar is a hot spot for lake-area sports fans; colorful canoli. 62
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Tuscan Tavern is popular not only because of its delicious pizza, pasta and subs. The recently added bar and lounge area is spacious and relaxing, well suited for late evening conversation, watching sports on TV or private parties. “We open the bar between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m.,” said Palumbo. “It just depends on what time people want to get in there, which is different every day. The restaurant closes at 9 p.m., but customers can go over and hang out in the bar until later if they want to.” Bartender Harry Green has been serving up the spirits at Tuscan Tavern since the bar’s opening last March. He said the lounge area has become a popular gathering spot for Lakers.
“A lot of customers like to have the seafood option,
The Sampler Pizza
and this one is a good one,” says Tuscan Tavern owner Maria Palumbo of the Seafood Delight.
Homemade crust and sauce with your choice of nearly 20 toppings. Or try a specialty pizza such as Hawaiian, Florentina or Tuscany. $6.95-$17.95
Parmigiana Chicken or veal topped with mozzarella cheese and Palumbo’s homemade tomato sauce. Served with salad, bread and your choice of pasta or vegetable. $11.95 for chicken; $13.95 for veal
Seafood Delight A combination of shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari and scallops in a fresh marinara sauce over pasta. Served with salad and bread. $17.95;
Want to go? Tuscan Tavern Pasta & Grill Address 16483 Moneta Road, Moneta Phone 540.297.8900 Hours Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, Noon-9 p.m.
“It is casual, fun and has a very local clientele, a lot like [the TV show] ‘Cheers.’ Everybody knows everybody,” Green said. “They come because they love the pizza, they love the atmosphere. A lot of people like that there isn’t loud entertainment.” One of the bar’s patrons, Joy Jaeger, said there are many reasons she and her friends enjoy hanging out there. “A group of ladies and I have a girl’s night every couple weeks. We often go to the Tuscan Tavern because it has a wonderful atmosphere,” said Jaeger. “Plus, some of us are Pittsburgh Steelers fans and since Tony, the owner, is one, too, it’s sort of like our local Steelers pub. “Tony has such a sense of community. He does a great job making it just the kind of place the locals want it to be.” SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
6 3
savor | SPIRITS
refreshing
Resolutions
64
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
10 inspiring ideas to help you broaden your beverage horizons in 2011 Story
T
by
Gordon Kendall
en years is a long time – long enough for this magazine to grow from a modest 24-page, black-and-white publication into Smith Mountain Lake’s top source for area entertainment and lifestyle features. While I’ve only been contributing to the Laker for a few of those years, I felt compelled to mark the occasion of its 10th anniversary. To do so, I developed a list of 10 things Lakers can resolve to try this year that will introduce them to new flavors and experiences. So get out there, attempt a few of these suggestions in 2011 and broaden your horizons.
1
Visit a Local Winery It’s surprising how much you
can learn about wine by walking through a winemaking operation with the person who grows the grapes or fruit and makes the wine. SML residents are fortunate to be a short drive away from several wineries that produce a wide variety of wine (five in Bedford County and one in Franklin County). They range from delightful fruit wines at Peaks of Otter Winery to seriously concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon at Hickory Hill. Most wineries offer tasting and a place to relax while you enjoy the wine. Find more information online at smithmountainlake.com.
2
Attend a Local Wine, Craft Brew or Spirits Dinner
Benjamin’s at the Pointe, The Landing Restaurant and Blackwater Café are among SML-area restaurants that regularly host informative dinners, where gourmet foods are paired with gourmet wines. The events usually include an importer or winemaker as a guest speaker, which gives patrons an opportunity to learn about the featured beverages. Sign up for e-mail newsletters from all three restaurants to receive advance notice. And make sure to call early for reservations as all three owners said the events usually sell out. CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
6 5
savor | SPIRITS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 65
3
Experience the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
The lake’s annual event is a great opportunity to learn more about Virginia wines and converse with winemakers and grape growers without having to leave the area. If you’re hesitant to invest in a bottle of wine before tasting it, the wine festival allows you to try before you buy. Festival-goers are issued a glass when they arrive and can sample small amounts of many different wines from the 27 wineries present. Tasting booth representatives can point you in the direction of your preferred style, such as sweet, dry, heavy red, crisp white or sparkling. The festival also includes food, craft vendors and live music.
4
Plan a Lakeside Picnic When the weather cooperates,
there’s nothing more pleasant than enjoying a nice bottle of wine and some gourmet goodies by the lake. If the temperature is warm, consider pinot grigio from Villa Appalaccia paired with a creamy cheese such as Brie. During the fall, kick back with a richer, more robust wine such as Amrhein’s Petite Verdot and roast beef sandwiches with horseradish mayonnaise. Don’t forget to pack glasses, a cheese board, knives, a tablecloth and napkins.
5
Visit a Local Brewery Take the opportunity to learn more about the process and ingredients used to create craft beer. Unlike mass-produced commercial beers made with rice and corn, conscientious craft brewers use a more expensive all-malt recipe for richer flavors and a fuller-bodied product. Awful Arthur’s at Towers Mall in nearby Roanoke is brewing some delicious beers. They usually have five different styles available from a well-hopped, crisp Pale Ale to a darker and more robust Porter. You can order a sampler featuring a small glass of each riding on a board designed to hold them securely. The brewing equipment is on display and tours are available.
6
Start and Maintain a Tasting Notebook A great way to
determine and remember your preferences is to keep a record of the beer, wine and spirits you’ve tried. For example, if you are
keeping a wine notebook, write down where you purchased bottles and the price, so if you want to buy more, you know where to look. Other useful information includes the date you tasted the wine and the foods you paired with it. Write down how the wine appeared, what aromas and flavors you detected as well as the palate feel or weight of the wine. As my friend Kevin Zraly, who operates the renowned Windows on the World Wine School in New York, likes to say, “You are the world’s leading expert on what you like.”
7
Try Some Dam Lager A relatively new beer that has become quite popular at watering holes around the lake, Dam Lager, the brainchild of SML resident Jerome Parnell, has been produced at Roanoke Railhouse Brewing Company. The beer is brewed in accordance with the Reinheitsgebot, or the German Beer Purity Law of 1516, which stipulates that only water, malted barley, hops and yeast can be used as ingredients. The allmalt recipe results in richer flavors, but the beer is still smooth and light-bodied without aggressive hop bitterness.
8
Start a Wine Club Smith Mountain Lake Wine Tasters
is a popular group whose members meet monthly at the Blackwater Café to sample wines with a particular theme. Right now, the club is not accepting new members because meetings fill the restaurant to capacity. However, the club’s president, Ralph Brush, said he is happy to add people to the club’s waiting list (call him at 297.8390). Forming your own wine club is easy. Invite friends you know would enjoy learning more about wine, decide on a location and a theme (such as similar wines) and have everyone bring a bottle and some food to share. Cover the wines with paper bags and number them. Have members write down their tasting impressions for each numbered wine and then read the comments before the wine identities are revealed. A lively debate will likely unfold.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 68
66
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
LAKEFRONT FINE DINING AWARD-WINNING CUISINE Winner of 10 Best of SML Awards for 2010 including
Best Chef (Platinum), Best Steak (Platinum), Best International Cuisine (Platinum), Best Restaurant View (Platinum) and Best Outdoor Dining (Platinum) Smith Mountain Laker Magazine
Best Lake Area Restaurant (Platinum Award) 2009 Dining Awards, The Roanoker Stars of the Lake-Top Restaurant (Platinum Award) Discover SML Magazine
Come and check out what is happening at The Landing! Winter Cooking Classes Are Back!
Beginning on Sunday, January 9th class is back in session. Join on Sunday afternoons, or Tuesday evenings for Cooking with Bruno. Classes are $75 per class and include Instruction, Written Recipes, 3 Course Meal & Wine! These classes fill fast and space is limited. Give us a call or check out our website at thelandingsml.com for more information.
Bruno's 3 Course Menu is Back!
Join us for Bruno's Special 3 Course Menu this Winter for $35. Come out and sample 3 Courses of Classic Landing Dishes or some of our new favorites. As always our regular menu will be available.
Fabulous Fridays!
Make The Landing your place every Friday night this Winter. We will have Matthew, our Piano Man, tickling the ivory keys playing some of your favorites. We will have Menu Specials & $25 Wine Specials all night! Call for reservations today!
Celebrate Valenties Weekend at The Landing
Featuring Live Entertainment with Kelly Scott Saturday, February 13th Menu Specials and Treats for the Ladies all Weekend Rooms Specials Available from Bernard's Landing Resort
HOURS:
DINNER: Wed.- Sat. at 5 pm
www.TheLandingSML.com
540.721.3028 • www.TheLandingSML.com Located At Bernard’s Landing Resort off Route 616 (Scruggs Rd) at Smith Mountain Lake
Visit Our Website To Meet The Chef, Browse Our Complete Menus, and Preview Upcoming Events At The Landing! SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
6 7
savor | SPIRITS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 66
9
Try
a
Virginia-Made
Spirit
Virginia is emerging as a producer of some fine whiskey as new distillers are opening up and producing a quality product. Consider a visit to the Copper Fox Distillery in Sperryville. Rick Wasmund founded the company in 2000 after visiting Scotland and walking amidst the castles, sea spray and fog. Wasmund uses locally grown thoroughbred barley smoked over fruitwood peat and distilled in a copper pot still to produce Wasmund’s Single Malt whiskey, which displays robust, complex, earthy and woody flavors. He also produces a smoky Copper Fox Rye Whiskey made from malt smoked with apple and cherry wood, double distilled and aged in used Bourbon barrels for a savory and complex flavor. Another tasty rye whiskey is made by Catoctin Creek Distillery in Purcellville. Organic, locally grown rye is used to produce the clear Mosby’s Spirit named for the cunning Confederate Colonel John Singleton Mosby. The clear spirit is aged in oak barrels for a time to produce the amber-hued Roundstone Rye Whiskey, which displays notes of spice, light caramel and citrus.
68
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
10
Plan a Wine-Inspired Vacation If you’re ready to
be adventurous in 2011, plan a trip to one of the major wine-producing areas of the world. Consider the Rhone Valley in France where you can walk around castle ruins in Avignon where the Pope lived for a time in the 14th century. Taste delicious local wines such as Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Cotes du Rhone. The Napa and Sonoma valleys of California are also great places to visit. Most wineries are friendly and welcome visitors. If you like sweeter white wines, consider visiting the Rhine or Mosel regions of Germany, which are justifiably famous for their mineral-tinged and often semisweet Riesling. The vineyards are situated on steep slopes adjacent to the river and offer stunning views. Gordon Kendall has more than 20 years of experience in the wine business and is currently the wine, beer and spirits columnist for The Roanoke Times. He teaches wine classes and enjoys educating people on all things related to the industry. If you have a question or an idea for a future Spirits column, please e-mail editor@ smithmountainlaker.com.
We are a friendly, family-owned restaurant. We feature a full-service bakery with home-baked cakes,pies and cupcakes, New York style bagels, artisan breads, soup bowls, paninis and specialty coffee
,
Experience Smith Mountain Lake’s favorite barbecue! We offer custom wedding cakes-you dream it, we can make it!
1123 Celebration Avenue, Suites 101 & 102, Moneta, VA bluebirdbakeryandgrill.net
(540) 297-2323
Bakery: M–Sat 9a-5p Grill: M–Sat 9a-9p FREE
Environmentally-friendly coffee, lattees, frappes, espresso, smoothies and cappuccino! ZONE
LOCALLY GROWN IN FRANKLIN COUNTY • All-Natural Milk • Fresh Churned Butter • Premium Ice Cream cones, sundaes, shakes
• Fresh Produce • All-Natural Beef & Pork • Premium Made-to-Order Ice Cream Cakes • Baked Goods • Homemade Jellies
Check out our homemade Chicken Pies
Winter Hours
Mon-Fri 11 a.m–7 p.m. Sat 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Closed Sunday
HOMESTEAD CREAMERY
7254 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Wirtz, VA • 540-721-2045 SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
6 9
EE ! S E M O C E D I S N I S WHAT
540-721-1880 400 Scruggs Road, Moneta, VA 24121 New Ideas ! New Styles ! New Rugs ! Let your friends at Blinds & Beyond Bring your ideas to reality.
www.blindsatsmithmountainlake.com
REMODEL YOU R KITCHEN NOW
!
Recently Mr. Kuhn remodeled our kitchen. We absolutely love and enjoy the updated kitchen. It was a pleasure to work with you and, you went above and beyond working with us to make everything perfect. Your honesty and trustworthiness throughout the project was also appreciated. We will be sure to pass your name to anyone who is looking to remodel their kitchen. Thanks again, for your expert help. - Jim and Krista Knowles
KITCHENS at the lake
Please call to schedule an appointment and see all this for yourself.
540-721-8575
www.KitchensAtTheLake.com 70
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Guide | LODGING
L dging 2011
Guide
Bed & Breakfast Inns • Houseboat Rentals • Campgrounds • Hotels / Motels Resorts and Conference Centers • Vacation Rental Companies • Individual Vacation Rentals SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
7 1
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11
LodgingGuide 2011
From primitive camping to full-service resorts, SML offers a wide variety of accommodation options. To help you find the perfect spot for your family and friends, the Laker has compiled its annual Lodging Guide, a user-friendly aid that features contact information, rates, pet policies and channel marker locations. Enjoy your stay! Easily locate accommodations by matching the number in the Map Grid Location column below to the map on pages 84-85. The number also corresponds to the more detailed SML Visitor Info Map produced each year by Laker Media. To request a free 2011 Visitor Info Map, call 540.721.4675, ext. 401 or e-mail editor@smithmountainlaker.com.
Name
Contact info
Units
Channel marker
Map Grid Location
Pets
Dock Privileges
Rate
540.890.3332 bbonline.com/va/ashleigh
2
R65
C5
No
Yes
$105-$145/night
540.297.2695 cedarpointebandb.com
2 BR suite
R1
E12
No
Yes
$700-$1,050/week
540.296.0510 lovestoneinn.com
4
C5
E11
No
Yes
$150-$300/night
BED & BREAKFAST INNS Ashleigh Manor 430 Hartwell Drive, Hardy, VA 24101 Cedar Pointe 216 Mountwood Drive, Huddleston, VA 24104 LoveStone Inn / PebbleStone Cottage & Conference Center 100 Summer Lane, Huddleston, VA 24104
Unique Solutions for Your Home Enjoyment
Retractable Door Screens
Aluminum Railings
Awnings
Drop-Down Shades/Screens
Screens Enclosures
Snazzy Screen Solutions 540-871-0373
See in-person demos of our products! • SnazzyScreenSolutions.com 72
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Contact info
Units
Channel marker
Map Grid Location
Pets
Dock Privileges
888.818.5294 adventuresonhouseboats.com
3
R87
B4
No
Yes
$1005-$2,370/ week
800.488.4516 • 540.721.5363 parrotcove.com
17
R28
D7
No
Yes
$715-$2,900/week
540.420.7625
140
B1
G11
Yes
Yes
$20-$40/night $1,500/year
540.721.3866 blueridgecampground.com
104
G5-G7
G8
Yes
Yes
$2,250/year
Eagles Roost Campground 15335 SML Pkwy. Huddleston, VA 24104
540.297.7381 eagleroost.20m.com
125+
R11-R12
F11
Yes
Yes
$17-$26/night
Mitchells’s Point Marina 3553 Trading Post Road, Huddleston, VA 24104
540.297.4430 mitchellspoint.com
83
C3
F12
Yes
Yes
Annual lease; Call for details
800.933.7275 540.297.6066
70
R19-R20
E10
Yes
Yes
$20-$30/night
Hampton Inn SML/Gretna 200 McBride Lane, Gretna, VA 24557
434.656.9000 hamptoninn.hilton.com
81
N/A
N/A
Yes
Yes
$79-$99/night
Lake Inn 45 Enterprise Lane, Hardy, VA 24101
888.466.5253 • 540.721.3383 lakeinnmotel.com
60
N/A
E7
Yes
No
$58-$86/night
540.721.3307 westlake-waterfront-inn.com
26
R37
D7
No
Yes
$85-$150/night
Name
Rate
HOUSEBOAT RENTALS Adventures on Houseboats 8360 Hardy Road, Hardy, VA 24101 Parrot Cove Boat Rentals & Sales 16441 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121
CAMPGROUNDS Arrowhead Campground, LLC 5625 Smith Mountain Road, Penhook, VA 24173 Blue Ridge Campground & Marina 8131 Burnt Chimney Road, Wirtz, VA 24184
Smith Mountain Lake State Park 1235 State Park Road, Huddleston, VA 24104
HOTELS / MOTELS
Westlake Waterfront Inn 2050 Morewood Road, Hardy, VA 24101
CONTINUED ON PAGE 74
Experience an active lifestyle at the highest quality facility around. Runk & Pratt invites you to join our growing family of lake loving residents.
!33)34%$ ,)6).' s !,:(%)-%2 3 #!2% s ).$%0%.$%.4 ,)6).'
COMMUNITY FEATURES 'REAT -EALS s "EAUTY "ARBER 3HOP )CE #REAM 0ARLOR s 'IFT 3HOP )N (OUSE 0HYSICIAN s )N (OUSE 4HERAPY 2ESPITE #ARE s -EDICATION -ANAGMENT 2ECREATION !CTIVITIES #ENTER s ,IBRARY /FF SITE !CTIVITIES /UTINGS
www.runkandpratt.com
540.719.1300
7ESTLAKE 4OWNE #ENTER ,OCATED BEHIND 7ESTLAKE +ROGER NEXT TO #ARILION | INFO RUNKANDPRATT COM SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
7 3
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11
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 73
Contact info
Units
Channel marker
Map Grid Location
Pets
Dock Privileges
Bernard’s Landing Resortand Conference Center 775 Ashmede Road, Moneta, VA 24121
800.572.2048 • 540.721.8870 bernardslanding.com
58
R11
F10
No
Yes
1-3 BR condos: $84-$271/night Homes/Townhomes: $174-$345/night
Mariners Landing Resort Community and Conference Center 1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston, VA 24104
800.851.4988 • 540.297.4900 marinerslanding.com
110
C6
E11
Yes
Yes
$79-$225/night
540.721.2759 skelton4hcenter.org
93
B40
I7
No
No
$50+/night
Name
Rate
RESORTS AND CONFERENCE CENTERS
W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center 775 Hermitage Road, Wirtz, VA 24184
VACATION RENTAL COMPANIES (marker is location of office) CB Rentals & Sales 1027 Waterwheel Drive, Moneta, VA 24121
800.203.RENT • 540.297.7000 cbrentals.com
100
R28
C8
Varies
Yes
$900-$6,500/week
Lake Retreat Properties, Inc. 6760 Whitehouse Road, Huddleston, VA 24104
800.421.6980 • 540.297.6002 lakeretreat.com
60
N/A
C11
Varies
Yes
$500-$3,200/week
Lakeshore Rentals and Sales, Inc. 16483 Moneta Road,, Suite M Moneta, VA 24121
800.572.6098 • 540.297.5610 lakeshorerentals.com
80
N/A
C8
Varies
Yes
$500-$3,650/week
Long & Foster Vacation Rentals 16869 Moneta Road, Moneta, VA 24121
866.395.2038 • 540.297.1828 sml-vacations.com
50
R28
C8
Varies
Yes
$500-$3,000/week
RSI Rentals, Inc. 13595 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121
866.721.9797 • 540.721.9797 rsirentals.com
85
N/A
D7
Varies
Varies
$575-$3,500/week
Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals, Inc. 16451 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121
877.773.2452 • 540.721.2589 smithmountainlakerentals.com
40
R29
D7
Varies
Yes
$895-$2,195/week
1 BR condo
G10
G9
Yes
Yes
$325 - $500/week
VACATION RENTALS – INDIVIDUAL HOMES Captain Bert’s Waterfront Lodging 208 Stripers Landing, Moneta, VA 24121
540.721.5788 captainbert.com
HOME PUTTING GREENS -THE 19TH HOLE Let “Puttering Around the Yard” take on a whole new meaning.
®
85 WESTLAKE ROAD WESTLAKE TOWNE CENTER HARDY, VIRGINIA 24101
AD
(540) 719-4600
Visit our web site for more info and give us a call. 540.721.0098 (phone) • 540.355.1716 (cell) P.O. Box 759, Moneta,VA 24121
QUALITY AND TIMELINESS ARE IMPORTANT TO US.
OUR PHILOSOPHY IS NOT TO BE THE BIGGEST, BUT TO BE THE BEST.
Complete care of residential and commercial lawns and landscapes. Installation of top of the line artificial putting greens, Golfscapes. Over 30 years experience. • Free estimates. • Insured. • Owner operated.
www.LawnsAtTheLake.com 74
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
ERICH J.P. FABER
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT SERVING THE LAKE SINCE 1991
Contact info
Units
Channel marker
Map Grid Location
Pets
Dock Privileges
Rate
800.548.8539 a1vacations.com/218083
4 BR home
R28
C8
No
Yes
$600-$1,200/week
336.454.3042 cedarkeycabins.com
2 singlefamily cabins
R1
E12
Yes
Yes
$800-$1,200/week
540.297.3221 2020tech.com/cottages
3
R28
C8
Yes
Yes
$569-$779/week
The Dome Home 214 Mountwood Drive, Huddleston, VA 24014
540.797.4686 a1vacations.com/Striffler/1
3 BR home
R1
E12
Yes
Yes
$825-$1,300/week
Enchanting Cabin 1023 Cedar Key Lane, Huddleston, VA 24104
703.623.0463 smithmtnlakerentals.com
2 BR cabin
R1
E12
Yes
Yes
$900-$1,300/week
Enchanted Lodge 1012 Cedar Key Lane, Huddleston, VA 24014
703.623.0463 smithmtnlakerentals.com
3 BR lodge
R1
E12
Yes
Yes
$1,600-$2,200/ week
The Fox Home 110 Waters Edge Lane, Moneta, VA 24121
540.297.3477
1
R27
D9
Yes
Yes
$1,350-$1,950/ week
Parkway Marina 16918 SML Parkway Huddleston, VA 24104
540.297.4412 parkwaymarina.com
2
R8
F11
No
Yes
$799-$979/week
Silver Bay View Cottages 111 Bay Terrace, Huddleston, VA 24104
434.953.6747 silverbayview.com
4
R1
E12
Yes
Yes
$1,000-$2,850/ week
877.313.5100 petcarp.com
8
R6
G11
Yes
Yes
$89-$150/night
434.927.5199 smithmountainstables.com
6
N/A
I12
Yes
No
$50-$125/night
540.297.5611 • 540.400.3465 spikesprimetimefishin.com
2
R30
C8
Yes
Yes
$88-$118/night
434.927.5724 vistapointe-va.com
1
B1
G11
No
No
$200/night
Name Coffman Home at Paradise Point 4331 Hales Ford Road, Moneta, VA 24121 Cedar Key Cabins 1000 Cedar Key Lane, Huddleston, VA 24104 Coveside Cottages 1036 Coveside Circle, Moneta, VA 24121
Smith Mountain Dock & Lodge 300 Locust Lane, Penhook, VA 24173 Smith Mountain Farm & Stables, LLC 7661 Grassland Drive, Sandy Level, VA 24161 Spike’s Prime Time Fishin’ 4067 Hales Ford Road Moneta, VA 24121 Vista Pointe 6605 Smith Mountain Road Penhook, VA 24137
Only a 40 minute drive from SML
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7 5
social seen | CALENDAR
Calendar 2 0 1 1
j a n u a r y Jan 7
JONATHAN BYRD AND DROMEDARY | Contemporary folk concert sponsored by Friends of the Bedford Public Library. 7:30 p.m. at the Bedford Central Library. Suggested donation of $10 per person. 540.586.8911, friendsofbedfordlibrary.org
Jan 9
COOKING CLASSES | Jan 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 | Presented by Bruno Silva, owner and executive chef at The Landing Restaurant, Moneta. Topics and menus vary. $75 per person includes instruction, dinner and wine for one class. Pre-registration required. 540.721.3028, thelandingsml.com
Jan 14 GREATER ROANOKE HOME & GARDEN SHOW | Jan 14-16 | The latest in home and garden products and services on display at the Roanoke Civic Center. Friday 2-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets $8 for adults, free for youth 16 and under. $2 senior discount (65 and older). 877.482.8496, roanokeciviccenter.com WINTER BEACH BLAST | Enjoy some summertime fun on a cold night. Live music by Domino and Holiday Band. 6-10 p.m. 540.375.3004, salemciviccenter.com
76
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Jan 20 SML REGIONAL CHAMBER AWARDS DINNER | A gala event featuring dinner, entertainment and awards presentation to Chamber businesses selected by fellow members. 6 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and available to Chamber members by e-mailing jim@visitsmithmountainlake. com. Limited space. 540.721.1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com CHARLIE PERKINSON TRIO | Live jazz music at The Blackwater Cafe, Moneta. 6-9 p.m. 540.721.4333, theblackwatercafe.com
Jan 21
THE EMBERS | Live beach music concert at the Roanoke Civic Center. 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $17 in advance, $20 the day of the show. Must be 21 or older to attend. 877.482.8496, roanokeciviccenter.com
Jan 22
TO INFINITY AND BEYOND | Spacethemed program for youth, 2-4 p.m. at Amazement Square, Lynchburg. Share amazing discoveries, explore history and the possibilities of future space travel. Program is free. Regular museum admission fees apply. 434.845.1888, amazementsquare.com
Jan 24
MOVIE MASTERWORKS | The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra performs Ravel’s “Bolero,” Mendelssohn’s incidental music for Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Wagner’s Tannhäuser Overture and Grieg’s Peer Gynt. 8 p.m. at the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre. Tickets $21-$49. 540.343.9127, rso.com
Jan 29
MUSIC POLL CONCERT | The top two acts in The Roanoke Times’ annual local music poll will perform at 8 p.m. at The Jefferson Center, Roanoke. Suggested donation of $5 per person will benefit Music Lab at Jefferson Center. Vote online through Jan. 9 at roanoke.com. 540.345.2550, jeffcenter.org MEATLOAF COOKOFF | See how your meatloaf and one Southern side dish stack up against other area amateur cooks. 1 p.m. at The Landing Restaurant. Owners Bruno and Tiffany Silva do the judging. Prizes include gift certificates, a trophy, antacids and bragging rights. Limited to the first 30 entrants. 540.721.3028, thelandingsml.com
Find more events in Laker Weekly and online at smithmountainlake.com!
To submit a calendar item, send an e-mail with all the details to calendar@smithmountainlaker.com.
f e b r u a r y FEB 1
BLACK HISTORY MONTH | Feb 1-28 | Booker T. Washington National Monument in Hardy will host special programs throughout the month. Call or check the park website for details. 540.721.2094, nps.gov/bowa COOKING CLASSES | Feb 1, 6, 8, 13, 20, 22, 27 | Presented by Bruno Silva, owner and executive chef at The Landing Restaurant, Moneta. Topics and menus vary. $75 per person includes instruction, dinner and wine for one class. Pre-registration required. 540.721.3028, thelandingsml.com
Feb 4 JOHNATHAN DILLON AND PHANTOM GRASS | Bluegrass concert sponsored by the Smith Mountain Arts Council. 7 p.m. at Trinity Ecumenical Parish, Moneta. $12 for SMAC members, $15 for non-members. 540.297.0965
Feb 12
VALENTINE’S OPEN HOUSE | Feb 12-14 | Complimentary wine tastings, snacks and winery tours at Hickory Hill Vineyards, Moneta. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 540.296.1393, smlwine.com
Feb 12
VALENTINE’S OPEN HOUSE | Feb 12-14 | Complimentary tastings at Peaks of Otter Winery, Bedford. 540.586.3707, peaksofotterwinery.com
GRAND WINTER GALA | Charity event featuring dinner, live music by The Kings and an art auction. 6 p.m. at The Water’s Edge Country Club. Tickets $60 for individuals, $100 for couples. Black tie optional. grandwintergala.com SML HEART BALL| Charity event featuring four-course meal, live music, live and silent auctions. 6:30 p.m. at Mariners Landing. Tickets are $75 per person. Overnight accommodations available for an additional $50 per person. 800.851.4988, marinerslanding.com
Feb 13
KELLY SCOTT | Live music at The Landing Restaurant, Moneta. 7:30 p.m. 540.721.3028, thelandingsml.com
FEB 17
CHARLIE PERKINSON TRIO | Live jazz music at The Blackwater Cafe, Moneta. 6-9 p.m. 540.721.4333, theblackwatercafe.com
Feb 25
BUS STOP | Feb 25, 26, 27 and March 4, 5, 6| Performance by Bedford’s Little Town Players about a group of bus passengers stuck at a roadside diner during a snowstorm. Tickets $12 for adults, $10 for kids 12 and under. 540.586.5881, littletownplayers.com
Southwest VIRGINIA boat & RV show Feb 25-27 | Eight area dealers will display the newest models of boats, personal watercraft and RVs. A variety of other recreation and home-maintenance equipment and services providers will also display their wares. Sponsored by the Southwest Virginia Boat Dealers Association. Roanoke Civic Center Complex (indoors and outdoors). Friday 1-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Cost: Free on Friday for children and adults; Saturday and Sunday $7.50 for adults, free for children 12 and under. For more information and a list of participating dealers, log on to roanokeboatshow.com.
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
7 7
social seen | OUT & ABOUT 1
WESTLAKE TREE LIGHTING The shops at Westlake Towne Center kicked off the holiday season with their annual treelighting ceremony Dec. 2. The festivities included performances by numerous vocal groups, a visit from Santa and the lighting of the tree. The first 150 people to donate a new toy for We Care of Franklin County were treated to a showing of “Miracle on 24th Street” at Westlake Cinema. The event is organized by The Willard Companies. Photos by Matt Brown. 1. EVE PLASTER, MADELINE SELLARS, AUTUMN COLOMBA, ERICA BLAKE SELLARS 2. LEXI ATKINS, ASHLEY JOHOSKE 3. DEBBIE AND JESSE SHELTON 4. PAT HOPKINS AND MOLLY
2
78
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
3
4
300 300 99 99 mo mo FREE FREE 800.722.7203 $
Purchase•Refinance•1st Time Buyers•Investments
DISH Network Offers HD Free For Life
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including local Channels
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12-month offer and Free HD require 24-month Agreement and AutoPay with Paperless Billing.
SIGN UP TODAY AND ALSO GET: including local Channels
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THE LUSK TEAM
Thomas N. Lusk • 540. 314.6462 (NMLS-111939) Thomas N. Lusk, II • 540.354.2109 (NMLS-211301)
Conveniently Located in the Westlake Area
12925 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Suite 200 Hardy, VA 24101 Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group is licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission License Number MC-936. NMLS72043
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Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. If service is terminated before the end of agreement, a cancellation fee of $17.50/ month remaining applies. Programming credits apply during the first 12 months. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current account; requires 24-month agreement, AutoPay with Paperless Billing. HBO/Showtime offer requires AutoPay with Paperless Billing; credits apply during the first 3 months ($72 value); customer must downgrade or then-current price applies. Requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay and Paperless Billing. Free Standard Professional Installation only. Monthly fees may apply based on type and number of receivers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local channels may not be available in all areas. Additional restrictions may apply. First-time DISH Network customers only. Offer ends 1/31/11. HBOÂŽ and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are registered trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company.
Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. If service is terminated before the end of agreement, a cancellation fee of $17.50/ month remaining applies. Programming credits apply during the first 12 months. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current account; requires 24-month agreement, AutoPay with Paperless Billing. HBO/Showtime offer requires AutoPay with Paperless Billing; credits apply during the first 3 months ($72 value); customer must downgrade or then-current price applies. Requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay and Paperless Billing. Free Standard Professional Installation only. Monthly fees may apply based on type and number of receivers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local channels may not be available in all areas. Additional restrictions may apply. First-time DISH Network customers only. Offer ends 1/31/11. HBOÂŽ and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are registered trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company.
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
7 9
social seen | OUT & ABOUT FLOTILLA FOR TOYS Boats are decked out in their holiday finest Nov. 27 for the annual boat parade sponsored by Virginia Dare Cruises and Marina. The event helps collect toys and clothing for area children in need. Photo by Rick Ries.
SANTA VISITS CAPPS Jackson Morgan, 2, of Glade Hill spends time on Santa’s lap Dec. 11 at Capps Home Building Center’s annual holiday open house. Photo courtesy of Capps.
SANTA CLAUS AT BRIDGEWATER PLAZA Hundreds of holiday revelers headed to Bridgewater Plaza Nov. 27 to see Santa arrive by boat, an SML tradition. The big guy stayed to hear wish lists and have his photo taken. Photo by Rick Ries.
4
Voted SML’s Best Dock Builder by readers of the Smith Mountain Laker magazine in 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008 • FREE ESTIMATES! 80
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
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As seen at the 2010 smith mountain lake charity home tour
Martinsville DuPont Credit Union Martinsville, Collinsville & Rocky Mount (800) 475-MDCU or (276) 632-1679 www.mdcu.org
LAKE INN MOTEL Smith Mountain Lake
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Advertising that
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CALL 540.721.4675 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
monthly access for 250MB. (Activation fees, taxes & other charges apply.)
The Forum At Westlake .POFUB 7" t
Our Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 12.9% of interstate & int'l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 2¢ Regulatory & 6¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov't taxes & our surcharges could add 5%-39% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35. IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Subject to Cust. Agmt, Data Plan, rebate form & credit approval. Up to $175 early termination fee ($350 for advanced devices), up to 10¢/MB after 250 MB allowance. Requires compatible EV-DO Rev. A device (sold separately). Mobile Broadband is available to more than 285 million people in 264 major metros in the U.S. Network details and coverage maps at vzw.com. In CA: Sales tax based on full retail price of phone. Rebate debit card takes up to 6 wks & expires in 12 mos. Š 2010 Verizon Wireless. C3630-0610
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
8 1
Laker Magazine Connects Real Estate
BUYERS
SML PRESSURE CLEANING by GRICE BROTHERS
SELLERS
The Smith Mountain Laker offers compelling stories, stunning photography, a longer shelf life and the largest circulation of any glossy publication in the SML market (150,000 copies per year).
Find out how advertising in the Laker can help increase sales and grow your business. Contact Sales Executive Tim Dye at 540.721.4675, ext. 409 or tim@smithmountainlaker.com.
Coming in the March/April issue...
L ARGEST REACH O F ANY MAG AZINE IN THE SML MARKET.
Our annual Home Guide issue, the March/April Laker focuses on trends, issues and products for those building, remodeling or just looking for ways to spruce up their homes at SML. PLUS: Our favorite Lake Homes features of the past 10 years Lake & Garden, Local Profile, Restaurants, Spirits, Entertaining and much more!
Tim Dye Laker Media Sales Executive 540.721.4675 ext. 409 tim@smithmountainlaker.com
82
January • February 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
Call now! Deadline to reserve advertising space is Jan. 28.
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Master Builder
with over 25 years of experience. Robert R. Bauer Building Contractors, Inc. www.rrbbuilders.com • (540) 296-2242 3335 Whitehouse Road, Moneta, VA
Winter Time Leaf Pickup & Removal Lawn & Landscape Maintenance Providing full lawn & landscape service to the region since 2001
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CABINETRY FOR THE ENTIRE HOUSE 20 years of Remodeling Experience Kitchens • Libraries Entertainment Centers Bars • Wine Cellars 540-721-1752 DeNealsCabinets.com Westlake next to Dairy Queen
540-580-0830
TopNotchLawnCare.com SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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ADVERTISER INDEX
ADVERTISER NAME A
Atlantic Bay Mortgage
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
PAGE # MAP ID 79
E7
70
E7
Capps Home Building Center
6
E7
Carilion Clinic
11
E7
Christi Austin Photography
59
-
Clear View Railing
44
-
Davis Heating & Air
27
-
Blinds and Beyond
44
Debbie Shelton, Prudential
9
E7
DeNeals Cabinets
83
E7
Emerson Creek Pottery
56
-
Eric Smith, DDS
44
-
Faber CPA Firm, LLC
74
E7
Franklin Community Bank
44
E7
Grand Home Furnishings Outlet
59
E7
Haywood's Jewelers
53
E7
Homestead Creamery
69
G4
Hughes Marine Service
27
-
Interiors by Kris
29
E7
Jane Sullivan Horne, Prudential
5
E7
Kara's Closet
57
C8
Kevin A. Mele, P.C., CPA
22
C8
King's Grant
75
-
Kitchens at the Lake
70
-
Kitchens by Connie
36
E7
Kroger
2
E7
Lake & Land Realty, The Pagans Team
29
C8
Lake Inn
81
E7
Lakescapes Nursery
17
J9,E7
M.H. Eades, Inc.
79
-
Martinsville Dupont Credit Union
81
K4
Morgan Stanley, Smith Barney
21
-
Melinda Bell
81
-
Moyer's Seamless Guttering, INC
83
-
NBI Development
49
A9
Nationwide Insurance
35
-
PD&M, Inc. General Contractors
42
C8
RM Communications
79
E7
Robert R. Bauer Building Contractors
83
-
RSI Rentals
72
E7
Ruggieri Lawns, LLC
74
-
Runk & Pratt SML Retirement Village
73
E7
Seven Oaks Landscaping
41
J5
Small Plates
47
-
Smith Mountain Building Supply
3
E7, J9
SML Pressure Cleaning
82
-
Snazzy Screen Solutions
72
-
Southerns Best
70
C8
The Bluebird Bakery & Moneta BBQ
69
A9
The Landing Restaurant
67
F10
The Little Gallery
57
C8
The Water's Edge
51
G11
The Waterfront Country Club
51
C8
The Westlake Country Club
51
C8
TopNotch Lawncare
83
E7
Turner's Building, Inc.
80
J9
Verizon Wireless
81
E7
Vicki Millehan, Prudential
9
E7
Virginia Dare Marina
59
E10
VitaZen
29
E7
Webster Marine Center
31
C8
Westlake Cinema
3
E7
Westlake Dental Office
4
E7
Westlake Heating & Air Conditioning
35
E7
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
ADVERTISER NAME
PAGE # MAP ID
K
© 2010 Laker Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this map without the written consent of Laker Media is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of this map.
Westlake & Spa• February 2011 56 E7 8 4 Salon January | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER
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A
AKER
SMITH MOUNTAIN
magazine
B
C
D
E
F
G
REAL ESTATE INDEX ADVERTISER NAME
PAGE # MAP ID
Blankenship, Rhonda Long & Foster REALTORS Horne, Jane Sullivan Prudential Waterfront Properties Johnson, Phyllis RE/MAX Lakefront Realty, Inc. Lake & Land Realty McDaniel, Glenda Long & Foster REALTORS McDonald, Mary Lou Realty World McDowell-Kent, Sylvia Lake & Land Realty TO DANVILLE/GREENSBORO
For a more a more detailed map and retail guide, please pick up a copy of the FREE Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Info Map. The map is available at various locations around Smith Mountain Lake, including the SML Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza and Laker Media, 13420 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Moneta.
RE 13 RE 3
H11
RE 12
C8
RE 8 RE Cover RE 6-7 RE 10
C8 C8
F11
RE 15
C8
McGraw, Jan Realty World
RE 15
F11
McGreevey, John and Pat Long & Foster REALTORS Millehan, Vicki Prudential Waterfront Properties
RE 11
D8
RE 4
H11
Montgomery, Dana Prudential Waterfront Properties Prudential Waterfront Properties
RE 12
E7
RE 2
Shelton, Debbie Prudential Waterfront Properties Team Dominion RE/MAX 1st Realty The Van Team Long & Foster REALTORS
RE 5
E7 E7
RE 12
-
RE 15
C8
RE 9
E7
Watermark Realty
SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM
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C8
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