Laker May/June 2024

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30 Personalities

The Wander Years

After decades of hikes spanning thousands of miles, Cathie and Randy Cummins pursue the Triple Crown by Reed Dillon 44 Getaway

An Appalachian Oasis in Blue Ridge Country

More than a luxury retreat, Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards is a love letter to the land

By Layla Khoury-Hanold

Lake Info 48

Editor’s Note 10 Travelers 12 Calendar 23 Lake Views 52

14 Local Flavor Springtime Spears by Clare Osdene Schapiro

16 In the Garden Strawberries: The Everbearing Bounty by Tim Durham

18 Sip Bramble On by Josh Seaburg

20 Lake Lures

Energizing the Community by Reed Dillon

36 Life at the Lake Farm to Fiber Pacabella Farm Alpacas & Boutique promotes agritourism in Franklin County by Reed Dillon

58 Dock Tale Hour It Takes All Kinds By Kimba Dalferes

Remodelers &Renovators

High home prices and lack of inventory got you down? Let TBS transform your old property into something new! We remodel and renovate both residential and commercial properties.

Contributors

KIMBA DALFERES, WRITER

Kimba is a king salmon slayer and estate sale junkie who sometimes writes funny stuff. Find her books on Amazon, and keep up with her at kimdalferes.com.

REED DILLON, WRITER

Reed is a branding specialist, marketing consultant, freelance writer, and the owner of Creative Brand Content LLC. He is a nearly lifelong Franklin County resident with deep ties to the community, and he resides in Moneta with his family.

TIM DURHAM, WRITER

Tim graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in plant medicine, the equivalent of a “plant M.D.” He is currently an associate professor of crop science at Ferrum College. His family operates Deer Run Farm, a 30-acre vegetable farm on Long Island, New York.

AARON SPICER, PHOTOGRAPHER

Aaron started shooting photographs as a child with his trusted Fisher-Price 110 camera, and he’s been exploring his native Virginia through imagery ever since. A new resident of Roanoke, Aaron spends his down time running on local mountain trails and fly fishing for trout.

May/June, 2024

LIFE AT SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE AND SURROUNDING LOCALITIES EDITORIAL

Editor ANGELA BLUE

lakermag@roanoke.com

Copy Editor BEN SWENSON

Creative Designer JESS MODZELESKI

Laker Media products offer the largest reach in the Smith Mountain Lake market. For information on advertising your business in print or online, contact:

Marketing Consultant 434-942-2918 KELLY MAYS kelly.mays@roanoke.com

•

welcomes story ideas, photos for our Traveling Lakers and Lake Views sections, and details for our events calendar. Please submit these items via email: lakermag@roanoke.com

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY

Free copies of Laker are available at dozens of locations around the lake region, including Food Lion and the SML Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plana.

©2024 The Roanoke Times. Smith Mountain Laker Magazine is a community publication solely owned by The Roanoke Times. It is published for the residents of Smith Mountain Lake and is subject to The Roanoke Times’ 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 The Roanoke Times 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 The Roanoke Times. All rights reserved. Real estate advertised in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968.

Pacabella Farm Alpacas & Boutique Story by Reed Dillon

Photo by Aaron Spicer

The Paths We Take

It’s incredible the paths that life takes us on sometimes. The choices we make — the big life decisions and the tiny habits we form — contribute to the types of people we become. In this issue’s Dock Tale Hour column, Kimba Dalferes compares different kinds of people at the lake: the cold plungers versus the summer raft loungers, the early birds versus the night owls, the planners versus the spontaneous. It truly does take all kinds to make up a thriving community, and that’s part of what makes time spent at Smith Mountain Lake so enjoyable.

Now consider the actual, physical paths we journey on. Lifelong hikers Cathie and Randy Cummins of Union Hall have been on quite a few. They’ve completed the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail and are preparing to hike the Continental Divide Trail, the last leg of what’s known as the Triple Crown of Hiking. Even though the feats are difficult to complete, the couple concludes that there’s no better way to see all that’s out there.

Of course, you don’t have to hike hundreds of miles to appreciate beautiful scenery and find endless activities. Just here at SML, there are paths leading to the water, to locally owned stores and restaurants, to historic landmarks — even paths leading to alpacas.

That’s right, this area is home to a couple alpaca farms where the gentle, long-necked camelids spend their days

grazing on fescue grass and moseying over to greet visitors. In this issue, writer Reed Dillon takes us to Pacabella Farm Alpacas & Boutique where John and Robin Watson have been lovingly tending a herd of Huacaya alpacas for 17 years. At the farm, the couple hosts families, school and church groups, and individuals with special needs, thereby bringing a thriving agritourism business to Franklin County and earning countless fans of the angelic-looking creatures.

As for my path, it’s led me to be the new editor of the Smith Mountain Laker, and I’m delighted to learn and share the stories that make this region special. I’m a Virginia native from the little town of Chase City, and I have fond memories of spending summer Sundays on Buggs Island/Kerr Lake. I appreciate the ways that a lake can bring people together for water fun, fishing, or just spending time with friends against a sparkling backdrop.

I hope you enjoy this issue of the Laker that brings us into the sunniest season at the lake. If you have story ideas or feedback to share, drop me a line at lakermag@roanoke.com. Until then, perhaps our paths will cross one day.

ANGELA BLUE EDITOR lakermag@roanoke.com

Travelers

New England

• Jaqueline and Mark Oliver and Phyllis and Nick Karavatakis brought their Laker magazine to one of the beautiful lighthouses they visited during their New England and Canadian Maritime RV trip.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• Carolee and Alan Fischer from Mariners Landing visited Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with friends Jan and Jim Rogers from Apex, North Carolina. Delicious food and exploring the gorgeous, warm scenery with friends of 42 years were vacation highlights.

Rhodes, Greece

• Dennis Newton and Kaye Chandler brought their Laker to Rhodes, an island in Greece. They’re pictured in front of the Marine Gate to the medieval city of Rhodes, which was constructed more than five centuries ago.

Panama Canal

• Loa and Mike Ztanze, who live on Smith Mountain Lake in Huddleston, displayed their Laker magazine at the Panama Canal visitor center with the canal in the background. They enjoyed a wonderful cruise through the Canal from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. Kauffman Travel Team assisted in planning this great adventure.

Bonaire

• Val and Fred Picini celebrated Val’s 65th birthday below the surface of the south Caribbean Sea off the coast of Bonaire.

Daytona Beach, Florida

• Kevin Burdzy and Ocie Fidler and Gary and Kathryn Rudolf from Moneta visited the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida.

Tanzania

• Terri Shea from Huddleston enjoyed a twoweek safari to Tanzania. A pack of elephants are seen behind her in the Serengeti.

Where will your Laker go? Submit your high resolution travel photos at lakermag@ roanoke.com. Include your trip destination and names of any individuals pictured with you. Captions may be edited for clarity or space.

Bonaire

Springtime Spears

Story by Clare Osdene Schapiro | Illustration by Dwayne Carpenter

Peak asparagus season has arrived in Virginia, and the beloved spears should be on everyone’s shopping list at the moment. The tender shoots are obscenely low in calories and full of nutritional virtues like fiber, iron, and vitamins A, C, and K. Asparagus is delicious with a unique flavor profile and is happily cooked in a variety of easy, no-fuss ways.

harvest. By the way, you can speed things up a year or two by planting more expensive “crowns,” or already-mature plants.

It’s been grown in Virginia for as long as anyone can remember. And while it’s been properly cultivated here since around 1860, having been brought from France in the 17th and 18th centuries, wild asparagus was noted growing on the sandy shores around the Chesapeake Bay as early as the 1800s. Commercial asparagus production in Virginia has more than doubled in the last decade, becoming a favorite among chefs and enthusiastic home cooks. And, with a peak season from mid-April until early June, people in the know are grasping for those tasty spears any way they can get ’em. Where are you likely to find them? Yes, in grocery stores but more locally and freshly at farmers markets. You can even grow asparagus in your own garden. However, if you’re growing it from seed, it’s likely going to take three years until your first

So, faced with the oblong darlings, what should you look for? Although I’ve seen people rummage through stacks of asparagus looking for the thinnest, seemingly youngest stalks, I’m here to disabuse you of this practice — unless, of course, I’m standing behind you in the line, in which case, please leave those fat, juicy spears for me. Unbeknownst to many, when it comes to asparagus, the fatter is, in fact, the better. And while you’re most likely to find green asparagus around here, don’t be too quick to reject the white asparagus — most prized in Europe — or even purple. While they have subtle differences, they are all delicious and taste virtually the same once cooked.

So what’s the best way to cook them? Either briefly roast them bathed in olive oil, in a hot oven, or blanch them in boiling water and shock them in an ice bath to capture that deep, grass-green color. Incorporate them into a salad or a pizza, or serve them poached with hollandaise sauce. Really, you can’t go wrong. My recommendation is to celebrate those sensational spears this time of year because it’s a fleeting seasonal delight. have

Asparagus Pizza with Gorgonzola and Pesto

Ingredients

• 1 large pizza dough ball, room temperature

• 6 ounces pesto sauce, homemade or store-bought

• 1 pound asparagus, tough bottoms snapped off

• 8 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

• ¼ cup pine nuts

• ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°.

Roll pizza dough evenly on a nonstick pizza pan or cookie sheet leaving a thicker “crust” around the edge. Par-bake for 12 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from the oven.

Spread the pesto evenly over the pizza, leaving the outer crust bare. Arrange asparagus on top, followed by the crumbled Gorgonzola, pine nuts, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Return to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Remove from oven, cut into slices, and serve.

Strawberries:

The Everbearing Bounty

Story by Tim Durham

Strawberries epitomize the “enjoy the fruits of your labor” mindset. My first job was picking them at a heady rate of $3.85 an hour. That gainful employment was fleeting, as I was canned for treating myself to more than a few samples of fresh product.

A youthful indiscretion, I disavow any blame. They’re a guiltless indulgence — captivating tartness paired with a satisfying sugar rush. From U-pick outfits to strawberry rhubarb pie to jam, they spark a sweet nostalgia. Whatever memories are tied to these berries, that magic can be reproduced in your own backyard.

Strawberry culture is notoriously unforgiving — so don’t think you’re on autopilot. Hands-on, borderline micromanagement is key. If you’re the brown thumb, inattentive type, then something in the cabbage family might better suit your ethic.

Location

The first order of business is site selection. Opt for a loamy, well-drained soil (pH around 6.2), with exposure to at least eight hours of full sun per day and minimal wind. Raised beds are highly recommended. Jack Frost — blossom slayer — is conspiring against you, so try to avoid known chill pockets. A slightly elevated area and raised beds are optimal. One allure of strawberries is their versatile seasonal aesthetic. They make a great border planting around flower beds or can serve as a groundcover.

Consider your site history as well. Avoid planting where any solanaceous (nightshade) crop — tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, and the like — have been grown previously. They’re a reservoir for wilt disease, the consummate playground bully, unless you can find a resistant variety.

Variety

Varietal/cultivar selection is another important factor. With a little bit of research, you can make an informed, upfront varietal choice and avoid aggravation later on.

Choose the variety with the best package of disease and pest resistance. Resistance (screams stay away from me, I’m inedible and will defend myself) is always superior to tolerance (I’m a pushover and will let you consume me and just replace what’s been nibbled), which is preferable to susceptibility (I’ll let you run roughshod over me and hopefully eke out an existence), but tolerance is better than nothing.

Additionally, it’s often said that strawberries are “seasonal,” but why limit yourself? Instead of a June bearing variety, enjoy the bounty all season and opt for day-neutral, everbearing varieties.

You won’t have to contend with pesky day length requirements to promote flowering (photoperiodism). Moreover, what has more appeal: a pleasant, light shower or a torrential downpour? Granted, average yields won’t be as high for everbearing types, but they’re more steady and manageable. The cultivars Albion and San Andreas are highly recommended.

Planting

Strawberries are generally started from transplants rather than seeds. Roughly three weeks prior to planting, disperse 4 pounds of a triple 10 fertilizer (10-10-10) per 100 linear feet. Set plugs or dormant crowns out no earlier than three weeks before the threat of last frost. Plants should be spaced 1 foot apart in a row, with rows 2.5 feet apart. This provides ample real estate for each individual plant to thrive without infringing on its neighbor’s turf.

Cultivating

Cultivate in between rows to manage yield-sapping weeds for two weeks. Be sure to shallow cultivate, as it can injure strawberry roots. Mulch 1–2 inches deep with sawdust. As soil microbes decompose the sawdust, they tend to hog any free nitrogen, to the detriment of the plant. This may cause a brief nitrogen deficiency, expressed as chlorosis (leaf yellowing). A quick fix is to apply 1 pound of triple 10 per 100 square feet. This effectively feeds the microbes, which break down the sawdust’s organic matter, freeing any pent up nitrogen for plant use. Sometimes an upfront investment reaps dividends. Water with drip tape, positioned at least 2 inches from the plants. Moisten the soil, but avoid sogginess. Definitely avoid wetting the foliage, as it’s a disease magnet.

Nurturing and Enjoying

Whenever you see runners, remove them so the plants invest their energy in the crowns. Similarly, gently remove any early blossoms to coax the plant into establishment mode. Once established, then freely allow blooms. Reap the benefits for up to two years, replant, rinse, and repeat. Most importantly, start modestly and scale as necessary.

With this knowledge in hand, even a professed novice can reap the everbearing bounty of a strawberry garden — the gastronomic delight of many a youth and the young at heart.

One allure of strawberries is their versatile seasonal aesthetic. They make a great border planting around flower beds or can serve as a groundcover.

Bramble On

Story by Josh Seaburg | Photo by Corey Miller

The godfather of the London cocktail renaissance, Dick Bradsell, made a name for himself in the 1980s by inventing a series of compelling cocktails, including the iconic espresso martini. But for a refreshing summer gin cocktail, we have decided to look to our favorite Bradsell invention — the bramble.

The iconic bartender sought to create a uniquely British drink, inspired by the abundant blackberries on the Isle of Wight. What he came up with — though not as famous as his caffeinated masterpiece — is a sweet-tart, semi-floral delight.

Bradsell took inspiration from a well-established classic cocktail — the gin fix. That tipple is simply a gin sour, served over crushed ice, with the occasional drizzle of liqueur added. His bar at the time was already serving a variation that included seltzer, herbal Bénédictine, and cherry liqueur.

Bradsell simply nixed the bubbly water and replaced the duo of liqueurs with a very sweet blackberry liqueur called crème de mûre. The abundance of sugar helped to create striking laces of purple when gently poured over the drink.

It’s important to remember that the simpler the drink, the more important the ingredients. In Virginia, gin options like Beefeater or Tanqueray are classic choices, while Sipsmith or The Botanist would make for a compelling replacement. Fresh citrus juice is a must, preferably strained through a mesh tea strainer to remove seeds and pulp.

Crème de mûre can be a bit difficult to find, but it’s a necessity for this drink. Lesser blackberry liqueurs can be too thin and unable to complete the body and picturesque nature of the drink. Even worse, such liqueurs are often artificially flavored, adding a medicinal quality to a drink that deserves much better.

Crushed ice is the final important consideration. For best results at home, place a couple handfuls of ice into a clean, lint-free towel, fold it up into a secure package, and give it a few whacks with a rolling pin on a sturdy surface.

BRAMBLE Ingredients

2 ounces

1 ounce

½ ounce

London dry gin

Fresh lemon juice

Rich simple syrup *

Crème de mûre (to taste)

Instructions

Combine all ingredients except crème de mûre in a shaker tin. Add ice, and shake hard for 10—15 seconds. Strain into a chilled double rocks glass over crushed ice. Gently pour a small amount of crème de mûre over the top of the drink.

Garnish with a lemon slice (if desired) and a fresh blackberry (almost mandatory).

* To make rich simple syrup, combine two parts sugar to one part water, heated and stirred until dissolved.

Josh Seaburg is a bartender, brand ambassador, and educator who has established several award-winning cocktail programs in Virginia and taught seminars across the country.

Energizing the

COMMUNITY

Story by Reed Dillon | Photos by Aaron Spicer

In 2019, husband and wife Kevin and Sara Gray were driving past Bridgewater Plaza and noticed a “For Rent” sign in the window. Sara, a school counselor, was fueled by dreams of owning a bakery. Kevin, an area manager, felt inspired to fill the community’s void for a local coffee shop. Together, they decided to stop and scope out the space.

One look was all it took. Before long, they were signing the lease, renovating, learning about coffee and restaurant management, and hiring employees for their business, Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House. The flagship location at Bridgewater has become a community gathering place, and the Grays have since added two more Smith Mountain Lake locations to serve locals and visitors.

Tell us about the coffee shop’s role as a gathering place. We have many regulars that love to come in and sit awhile. We encourage people to use our space for meeting friends, getting work done, and family time. We love how it’s turned into such a well-known community meeting place at the lake.

What are your most popular menu items?

People like to choose our lake house favorites such as salted caramel latte, frappes, cold brews, and drip coffee. Our coffee beans come from Roadmap CoffeeWorks in Lexington, Virginia. Favorite sandwiches are our Whitehouse Turkey Club and EastLake Chicken Salad. Favorite pastries include filled glazed croissants and cheesecakes. We like hearing people say, “Oh, the Coffeehouse; I just love …” Everyone has their own favorites. We also offer a variety of keto, sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan options.

Tell us about your two additional locations.

The second location at EastLake Community Church began when Pastor Troy invited us to run the coffee bar in the lobby of the new church they were building. He and many of the staff frequented our shop and thought it would be a great fit! Our third location, Evie’s at the Lake SML Market gift shop began in December 2021. We wanted to offer a quick service concept to reach more people and take some pressure off our main location.

A variety of retail items are available at Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House’s Bridgewater Plaza location.

What challenges have you experienced?

When COVID hit, thankfully we had been established for a year, which helped us develop a loyal following. We were able to adapt by establishing online ordering. Afterward, it did become harder to hire enough employees because fewer applied and wanted to work when we needed them the most: the weekends

How have your backgrounds contributed to running the business?

Caring for our staff and customers has been a lot like working in a school. There are many teaching opportunities and times when it’s important to stop and listen for understanding. Training our staff to offer this same care and concern for our customers has been a top priority for us as well. Kevin’s background in sales and business also contributed. He has such a wonderful way with people and really goes above and beyond to help and solve problems.

Out + About

River of Lights

THE BEST THINGS TO DO AROUND THE LAKE

Every Friday, Saturday in June: Enjoy a picturesque float in Franklin County. The half-mile section of calm, shallow river will be illuminated by thousands of overhead string lights.

Note: The events listed here were scheduled at press time. However, it is best to confirm details with specific venues before venturing out.

May 2024

SARA EVANS

May 17–18 | 7 p.m.

The Harvester, Rocky Mount: Multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans is the fifth most-played female artist of country radio in nearly the last two decades. She has earned the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female Vocalist accolade as well as numerous American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Country Music Association, CMT and Grammy Awards nominations. Prices vary. harvester-music.com

JAKES

May 18 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Franklin County Recreation Park, Rocky Mount: Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship event is an annual opportunity to try archery, fishing, canoeing, shooting, and much more. Free. playfranklincounty.com

KIDS TO PARKS DAY

May 18 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston: Come participate in some exciting programs that connect kids with the outdoors. Programs include “Follow the Tracks” from 11 a.m.–noon and “Critter Wagon” and tracking games from 1–3 p.m. Free. dcr.virginia.gov

SML POKER RUN

May 18

Smith Mountain Lake: This charitable event gives

players an opportunity to play a card game on the water. There is a limit of 50 boats, but captains can have as many players and registered guests on board as their legal capacity allows. Boats travel to multiple card stops situated all over the lake. Prizes are awarded for various categories. Proceeds benefit various organizations as such as the SML Marine Volunteer Fire Department. smlba.com

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE

May 23 | 7 p.m.

The Harvester, Rocky Mount: Trombone Shorty’s

new album contains multitudes of sound, from brass band blare and deep-groove funk to bluesy beauty and hip hop/pop swagger. Prices vary. harvester-music.com

STARS & STRIPES FOREVER PATRIOTIC CONCERT

May 24 | 7–9 p.m.

D-Day Memorial, Bedford: The annual tradition features the Jefferson Choral Society and The Let’s Dance Band. This stirring concert will have guests on their feet celebrating freedom and honoring those who gave all to secure it. dday.org

The Day is Past & Gone: The Trilogy of Slave Life

May 24–25: Playwright Teresa Harris’s original drama returns to Jefferson’s south lawn for two performances only. Drawn from real-life experiences of the men and women who were enslaved at Poplar Forest, the trilogy explores the complexity of their lives and their struggles to survive.

IMAGE COURTESY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION

IMAGE COURTESY OF POPLAR FOREST

MOVIES ON THE MOVE

May 24 | 8 p.m. Movie begins at 8:30 p.m.

Ferrum Elementary, Ferrum: May’s movie is “Elemental.” Outdoor games and kids’ activities begin 30 minutes prior to the start of the movie. Snacks and drinks will be for sale to support the Franklin County Mountain Bike Club. Free kids’ toys will be given out, and each movie will have a free adult door prize. Free. playfranklincounty.com

THE DAY IS PAST & GONE: A TRILOGY OF SLAVE LIFE

May 24–25

Poplar Forest, Lynchburg: Playwright Teresa Harris’s original drama returns to Jefferson’s south lawn for two performances only. Drawn from real-life experiences of the men and women who were enslaved at Poplar Forest, the trilogy explores the complexity of their lives and their struggles to survive. Adults $20; youth ages 6–17 and college students with valid ID $10; children under 6 free. poplarforest.org

OPENING WEEKEND AT OLD BEDFORD VILLAGE

May 25–26

Old Bedford Village, Bedford: Regular Thursday–Sunday hours officially resume for the season. Celebrate the start of summer with a picnic lunch to enjoy at their many picnic tables. oldbedfordvillage.com

MEMORIAL DAY AT THE D-DAY MEMORIAL

May 27 | 11 a.m.–noon

D-Day Memorial, Bedford: Join the National D-Day Memorial for their annual ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. Experience music by Brass 5 and dedication of the latest installment of veteran bricks. View the Fallen Soldier Battle Cross display on the Memorial’s west lawn. Food truck open following ceremony. Free. dday.org

CASINO CRUISE

May 29

Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina: Join the fun as the Virginia Dare transforms for one night only into a riverboat casino! Enjoy all-youcan-eat heavy hors d’oeuvres, and sip your favorite cocktails as you play craps, roulette and blackjack during two hours of cruising. No cash. Those with the most chips at the end of the night can cash them in for prizes. vadaresml.com

TRAMPLED BY TURTLES

May 31 | 5 p.m.

The Coves Amphitheater, Union Hall: Trampled by Turtles is from Duluth, Minnesota and stands out for their contemporary sound that bridges the gap between rock music and acoustic leanings. A dollar from every ticket purchase goes to Backline, a nonprofit that connects music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness resources. Rocky Mount Smokehouse will be with barbecue favorites. covesatsml.com

JUNE

YOUTH FISHING & OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

June 1 | 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston: Bedford County Parks and Recreation hosts this annual event with community partnerships. Youth ages 5–14 can enjoy fishing, riding on a fire boat, a paintball station, boat safety, canoes, and more. parks.bedfordcountyva.gov

PIGG PATH 5K

June 1 | 9 a.m.

Pigg River at Waid Park, Rocky Mount: The hugely popular Pigg Path 5K is back for its second year. This family-friendly 5K will take you off the beaten path onto what some may call a pig path. The hybrid course will combine smooth cinder trails with sections of natural surface double and singletrack. playfranklincounty.com

FARM STRONG OBSTACLE COURSE RACE

June 1

Waid Park, Rocky Mount: The Farm Strong OCR is a unique farm work-inspired challenge course that combines more than a dozen obstacles to create an event like no other. Prepare to get wet, muddy, and have a lot of “fun!” Driftwood Catering food truck will be on site serving a flavorful, healthy lunch. playfranklincounty.com

NATIONAL TRAILS DAYOWL PROWL NIGHT HIKE

June 1 | 8–9:30 p.m.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston: National Trails Day is a great opportunity to meet new people in the area and share a fun experience on a local trail. In this very special event, attendees will explore nature after the sun goes down and visualize it the way nocturnal animals do. dcr.virginia.gov

Pigg Path 5K

June 1: This familyfriendly 5K will take you off the beaten path onto what some may call a pig path. The hybrid course will combine smooth cinder trails with sections of natural surface double and singletrack.

80TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY COMMEMORATION CEREMONY

June 6–9

D-Day Memorial, Bedford: The 80th anniversary of D-Day will be observed with a recognition of veterans, guest speakers, dignitaries, music, flyovers, and more. Surviving D-Day and World War II veterans will take part along with representatives from each of the allied nations and military personnel. Free. dday.org

WATCHHOUSE

June 7

The Coves Amphitheater, Union Hall: Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz are two singers and musicians with profound chemistry, performing earnest yet masterfully crafted songs that encompass the unknowable mysteries, existential heartbreak, and communal joys of modern life. Rocky Mount Smokehouse will be with barbecue favorites. covesatsml.com

ROCK MY WORLD

June 7–8 | Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 2 p.m. Radford Baptist Church, Moneta: The Lakeside Singers is a large mixed chorus made up of local singers who perform popular and traditional music in four-part harmony. smithmountainartscouncil.com

LAKE QUILTERS GUILD AT SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE BIENNIAL QUILT SHOW, “QUILTS FOR ALL SEASONS”

June 7–8 | 10 a.m.

EastLake Community Church, Moneta: Approximately 100 quilts and quilt-related items will be on display. The show will also include a quilt raffle, gift basket raffles and vendors selling quilting/sewing items, purses, jewelry and wallets. There will also be a boutique with handcrafted items for sale. $10 per person. lakequilters.org

IMAGE COURTESY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION

RIVER OF LIGHTS

June 7–8, 14–15, 21–22, 28–29

Waid Park, Rocky Mount: Every Friday and Saturday night in June you can enjoy a picturesque float in Franklin County. The half-mile section of calm, shallow river will be illuminated by thousands of overhead string lights. $15. playfranklincounty.com

A DAY AT THE LAKE

June 8 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Goodhue Boat Company - Blackwater: This free event, organized by the Smith Mountain Lake Association, brings the community together for fun and interactive activities (in water and on land) and is dedicated to protecting the water of SML and promoting safe recreation. smlassociation.org

FRANKLIN COUNTY COURT DAYS

June 8 | 3–7:30 p.m.

Rocky Mount: Celebrate tradition in historic Rocky Mount, hosted by the Community Partnership for Franklin. Years ago, Court Days was the day the Circuit Court Judge came to town and the community gathered to buy, sell, and trade goods, make music, mingle, and simply take care of business. The modern-day Court Days pays homage to that tradition and offers a social setting for everyone to enjoy. Activities include a kids’ zone, bake-off, old timey contests, food and craft vendors, and live music. Free. playfranklincounty.com

BEN FOLDS

June 8 | 7 p.m.

The Harvester, Rocky Mount: Ben Folds has created an enormous body of genre-blending music. From each ticket sale, $1 goes to Ben Folds’ charity, Keys for Kids, providing young people in North Carolina the opportunity to play piano. Prices vary. harvester-music.com

JOYOUS JUNQUE SALE

June 8–9

Resurrection Parish, Moneta: There will be anything you could use inside and outside your house including toys, linens, dishes, electronics, small appliances, computers, flowers, pots and pans, collectibles, antiques, furniture, tools, lawn/garden, sporting goods, electric ranges, hardware, and watercrafts. joyousjunque.org

CIVIL WAR WEEKEND

June 8–9

Old Bedford Village, Bedford: Experience living history throughout the village with battles both days. oldbedfordvillage.com

BREWS, CRUISE & TUNES

June 10 | 6 p.m.

Smith Mountain Lake YMCA, Moneta: Enjoy live music by the SML Boomer Band. Food and drink available to purchase. Free entry to car show. franklincountyymca.org

28TH ANNUAL SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE GOLF INVITATIONAL

June 14 | 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

The Waterfront Country Club, Moneta: This popular event is an outstanding way to showcase your company, meet new business prospects, and entertain top clients, all while enjoying a fun and relaxing day on one of the area’s finest golf courses. visitsmithmountainlake.com

12TH ANNUAL NATIONAL JURIED EXHIBITION AWARDS RECEPTION

June 14 | 5–7 p.m.

Bower Center for the Arts, Bedford: Join the Bower Center for one of their most exciting receptions of the year. Light refreshments and drinks will be available. Free. bowercenter.org

FAMILY BINGO NIGHT

June 14 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Essig Recreation Center, Rocky Mount: Come take your chances at winning some awesome prizes during 15 games of Bingo. Bring the entire family to enjoy. Ages 5 and up. $2 per card; cash only. playfranklincounty.com

CONCERTS BY CANOE: HIS AND HERS

June 14 | 6:30 p.m.

Twin Ridge Recreation Area on Philpott Lake: Bring your canoe, kayak, SUP, tube, or float, and paddle your way to a front row seat for this one-of-a-kind event. Arrive early to unload your paddlecraft at the venue’s dual launch ramp. The Hotdog Stand will provide the fixin’s.

Motorboats, please utilize the Salthouse Branch Recreation Area for lake access. Non-motorized boats can utilize Twin Ridge Recreation Area. Life jackets are required for all watercraft. Free. playfranklincounty.com

JUNETEENTH:

A JUBILEE

CELEBRATION OF EVERYDAY PEOPLE

June 15 | noon–7 p.m.

Sedalia Center, Big Island: Come to the Sedalia Center to celebrate Juneteenth and put a little love in your heart. This year’s event features Tanner Sharpe and High Praise, a gospel group from Lynchburg; Mikal and Jessica Townsent, a Christian rapper and author, respectively; and Majestic Strength Dance Company, offering unforgettable experiences through the language of movement. Free. sedaliacenter.org

VSP HISTORY & CULTURE DAY

June 15

Smith Mountain Lake, Huddleston: Ride with a park guide to experience Smith Mountain Lake from a boat. How large is the lake? What was here before the lake? Learn the history of how the lake was created and the origin of the park. Then later in the day, head to the park to meet Ranger Parker Redfox, the Virginia State Park’s mascot with a mission to help reconnect children with the outdoors. dcr.virginia.gov

FATHER’S DAY CRUISE

June 16

Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina: Bring dad on a relaxing, two-hour cruise to enjoy brunch while taking in the sights. Adults (11 and up) $55. Children (10 and under) $40. vadaresml.com

June 1: Prepare to get wet, muddy, and have a lot of “fun!” with a dozen obstacles to create an event like no other. Farm Strong

2024 Virg inia Highlands Festival

Arts, culture, outdoor adventures, history, theatre, music, and more...“find your way to play” in Abingdon with the Virginia Highlands Festival

July 26 - August 4

June 27—29: Revel in the revolutionary spirit of America’s Founding Fathers at Poplar Forest’s presentation of 1776— the Tony Award-winning comedy by Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone based on the events leading up to the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence.

DOC MCCABE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

June 20–22

Sedalia Center, Big Island: Thursday features a pot luck and jam session. Friday’s events include performances by Blue Connection, Back Creek Valley Boys, Little Mt Boys, and New Standard. Saturday’s schedule features Dark Hollow, Hammaville, and Rose River Ramblers. Friday $25; Saturday $35; Two-day pass $55; Advance tickets $45 until June 1. sedaliacenter.org

MOVIES ON THE MOVE

June 21 | 8 p.m. Movie begins at 8:45 p.m. Rocky Mount Skate Park, Rocky Mount: June’s movie is “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” Outdoor games and kids’ activities begin 30 minutes prior to the start of the movie. Snacks and drinks will be for sale to support the Franklin County Mountain Bike Club. Free kids’ toys will be given out, and each movie will have a free adult door prize. Free. playfranklincounty.com

FORTUNATE YOUTH

June 22

The Coves Amphitheater, Union Hall: From backyard barbecues in Southern California beach towns to its rise as one of the most popular reggae rock bands in the country, Fortunate Youth remains devoted to its roots and a simple mission: Spread peace, love, and unity with music. covesatsml.com

BEDFORD BLUEGRASS BASH

June 21–23

Bedford County Fairgrounds: This third annual event will offer hours of great bluegrass entertainment. New this year, a free open mic night starts Friday at 6 p.m. Seating is open and under one roof. Dry camping is available. Festival held rain or shine. Two-day pass $20; one-day pass $15; children 12 and under free. bedfordbluegrassbash.com

WILD WEST WEEKEND

June 22–23

Old Bedford Village, Bedford: Travel back to the days of the Old West! The event features gunfights, bank raids, and poker games, plus lots of activities for kids. oldbedfordvillage.com

1776 THE MUSICAL

June 27–29

Poplar Forest, Lynchburg: Revel in the revolutionary spirit of America’s Founding Fathers at Poplar Forest’s presentation of 1776— the Tony Award-winning comedy by Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone based on the events leading up to the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence. View these events through the eyes of Ben Franklin, Richard Henry Lee, John Adams and TomJefferson. Celebrate their contributions to our country’s

history. Bring a picnic dinner, a blanket or chairs, and friends and family for an evening of theater under the stars. Adults $17.76; College and youth ages 6–17 $13; Under 6 $4.

FRANKLIN COUNTY MULLET CONTEST

June 28 | 5 p.m.

Franklin County High School Football Field, Rocky Mount: Judging and winners will be announced at the Independence Festival. Win great prizes. The overall winner will remain the champion until the following year and will be invited to many county appearances. playfranklincounty.com

INDEPENDENCE FESTIVAL

June 28 | 5 p.m.

Cy Dillon Football Stadium at Franklin County High School, Rocky Mount: Enjoy the biggest and best fireworks show, crafts, entertainment, games, food, and raffles. Free. playfranklincounty.com

SEND US YOUR EVENTS

Email your event details, including date(s), time, location, admission cost, description, and website to lakermag@roanoke.com.

1776 The Musical IMAGE COURTESY OF POPLAR FOREST

I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.

“

— Henry David Thoreau

The Wander Years

After decades of hikes spanning thousands of miles, Cathie and Randy Cummins pursue the Triple Crown

Story by Reed Dillon

Hiking teaches you lessons. It teaches resilience, tolerance, the act of overcoming personal weaknesses, and the importance of listening to your body. Lake residents and lifelong hikers Cathie and Randy Cummins of Union Hall are well-schooled in these lessons.

The couple, both 67, is preparing next year to complete the Continental Divide Trail, the last leg of what’s known as the Triple Crown of Hiking. (They’ve already completed the other two, the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail.)

Cathie traces her love of hiking back to when her dad took her roving as a youngster. During family excursions, she would always hunt for trails and wander off to discover where they led. A self-proclaimed introvert, Cathie says hiking stemmed from her solemn love of, and appreciation for, nature.

Randy and Cathie grew up in Punta Gorda, Florida and began dating as juniors in high school. Married at age 20, they attended the University of Florida together until Randy transferred to Florida Atlantic University. They began backpacking in the 1980s as a way to spend time together, later committing to an overnight hike once per month. They both fell in love with it. “At first it was agony, and then it became addictive,” Cathie says.

As young adults with burgeoning careers — Randy joined the U.S. Navy in oceanographic engineering, and Cathie became a physical therapist — they still carved

Cathie and Randy Cummins of Union Hall have more than four decades of hiking experience.

PHOTO BY AARON SPICER

You feel so tiny by comparison. I fi nd it liberating.

— Cathie Cummins “ “

out time to hike, learning as they went.

By trial and error, the couple quickly learned how to pack light and to live and survive on the trail. They have whittled their basic needs to include water, food, a tent, sleeping bags, water bags and filtration, bug repellent, a first aid kit, hiking poles, a lighter, denatured alcohol, and a small stove that’s the size of a coffee can.

Clothing-wise, Cathie only brings one outfit, along with sleepwear and undergarments, and Randy packs two outfits (due to perspiration) and sleepwear. Both carry rain gear. They estimate their essentials weigh in the teens, not including their food supply, which consists of items they’ve mostly dehydrated themselves: packets of instant breakfast, granola bars, dried fruit and nuts, noodle mix, vegetables, spaghetti sauce, mayo packets, as well as dehydrated ground beef, tuna, chicken, and salmon.

Staying hydrated and consuming plenty of calories is important to retain strength and energy during arduous hikes. Randy once lost up to 25 pounds on one of his hikes due to the challenge of carrying the necessary amount of food, which proved nearly impossible.

The technical difficulty of a trail depends on elevation changes, conditions, and terrain. For example, Randy says the Pacific Crest Trail, which goes from the U.S.-Mexico border in California to Washington state, is long and gradual.

By comparison, the Appalachian Trail has more steep ascents and descents. While the AT is well-marked with distinctive painted white blazes — white rectangles painted on trees, posts, and rocks — the Pacific Crest Trail is sometimes confusing to navigate with intersecting and similar-looking cow paths.

Earlier in their hiking career, the couple relied on a GPS device and maps to keep them on trails. Now they use a GPS app on their phone to record their pace, distance, elevation, and speed; however, because cell service isn’t always reliable, they still bring maps to check GPS coordinates as a backup.

One of the luxuries they bring with them is an MP3 player loaded with their favorite songs. This helps to give them a boost, they say, when they’re mentally and physically tired.

Getting rest and supplies restocked are essential with many hikers, who will typically either restock from stores or have packages mailed to post offices along the trail. Packages may consist of treats and necessities, such as a change of shoes or food. Hikers can also choose to take a break from the trail by finding a place to get a shower, a hot meal, and a good night’s rest in a real bed.

There is no hierarchy in the hiking community. On trail, the couple has met and made lifelong friends of all ages. Also, trail names are a must — Cathie’s is “Fruitcake,” a nickname that she has had since she was a little girl, and Randy’s is “Nutz.”

As they’ve met people, they have also encountered scores of animals, including black bears, rattlesnakes, scorpions, moose, elk, and mountain goats, among others. On one occasion, after bedding down

for the night, an elk came within feet of their tent and began bugling at a high pitch, Randy recalls.

Their hikes have not been without incident. While on the Appalachian Trail, Cathie fractured the ulna bone in her forearm. On that occasion, they flagged down a vehicle and asked the driver to take them to the nearest hospital for treatment. Another spill resulted in Cathie having a severely separated shoulder. Randy has fared somewhat better injury-wise, having reported pain and muscle spasms from overuse.

Equipped with her knowledge of physiology as a physical therapist and as a certified wilderness first aid instructor and responder, Cathie has, on occasion, administered first aid while on the trail, helping people with all types of maladies, from pulled muscles to broken bones.

With both knees and hips replaced, Cathie says she is steadfastly committed to their trip in 2025, even though she knows this trek will be the most difficult of the three due to navigation challenges, wildlife, weather, and long stretches between resupplying food and water.

Reflecting on their adventures that have been difficult and, at times, scary, has tested their physicality as well as their relationship, but it’s been worth it, they say. Looking forward to going out west again and experiencing the awesome beauty of the mountain vistas where they might not see another human being for days is exciting.

While Randy relishes the physical challenges of long, arduous hikes, Cathie reflects that one must learn to be goal oriented and to take it one day at a time. “You learn that you need to make your miles each day and face challenges,” she said.

They both conclude that although feats such as these are difficult, there’s no better way to see all that’s out there. “You feel so tiny by comparison,” Cathie says of the vast mountain ranges and vistas she and Randy have witnessed out west. “I find it liberating.”

Below: The John Muir Trail in the High Sierras of California passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia national parks. Opposite page, at top: The Grand Canyon is just one of many stunning scenes the Cumminses have witnessed during their hikes. Opposite page, at bottom: Cathie Cummins organizes a resupply of food during a town stop.

This Page: Hiking at Glacier National Park, Montana. Opposite page: Thruhikers stand atop Mount Whitney, California, the highest mountain in the contiguous United States and the Sierra Nevada.

The Cumminses Trail Accomplishments

“ “

At first it was agony, and then it became addictive.

— Cathy Cummins

Randy and Cathie suggest that anyone interested in tackling one of these hikes should start by doing smaller, multiple overnight hikes. It’s also important to have the right equipment according to the climate and to not overpack.

1980: The couple begins backpacking. They commit to one overnight hike every month.

1997, 1998: Cathie, at age 40, independently completes the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail in two halves.

2007: At age 50, the couple completes the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail in five months and one week.

2012–2022: Randy completes the entire Appalachian Trail.

2012–2014: The Cumminses complete 800 miles of the Continental Divide Trail, which extends from Montana to the Mexico border. The total hike is 3,100 miles.

2014–2024: Randy and Cathie complete numerous 100plus mile hikes throughout the northeast U.S., Virginia, Utah, the Canadian Rockies, and Scotland.

Cathie & Randy’s Local Hike Recommendations

Climbing a summit results in a great payoff and gives a sense of accomplishment to hikers of all levels. While many in the area already know the iconic spots, including McAfee Knob and Sharp Top, fabulous views can also be found at these less crowded summits:

• Apple Orchard Mountain — Easy, with impressive views. Distance: 5.3 miles out and back from the parking lot on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 74.7.

• Tinker Cliffs — Moderate. Distance: 8 miles out and back, using the Andy Layne Trail from Catawba Road. The blue trail connects with the Appalachian Trail approximately half a mile from the summit.

• Harkening Hill — Easy. Distance: 3.5-mile loop (great for kids), beginning at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center.

• Pearis Mountain — Strenuous. Distance: 5 miles with a

2.5-mile climb up 1,700 feet from the town of Pearisburg.

• Apple Orchard Falls — Strenuous with 2,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Distance: 7.5 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 78.4 at Cornelius Creek Loop.

• Rock Castle Gorge — Strenuous with steep grades. Total mileage: 10.6-mile loop from Rocky Knob Campground. The recommendation is to go slow and enjoy the gorge. This also makes for a great overnight backpack.

• Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Grayson Highlands — There are hikes of various lengths that offer a variety of terrain and scenery.

FARM TO FIBER

PACABELLA FARM ALPACAS & BOUTIQUE PROMOTES

AGRITOURISM IN FRANKLIN COUNTY

LStory by Reed Dillon

Photos by Aaron Spicer

eave the immediate vicinity of the Lake, and it won’t take you long to come across abundant horses and cattle dotting the countryside. Should you find yourself along Jubal Early Highway in Wirtz, however, you may be surprised to discover domestic livestock of a different kind altogether.

John and Robin Watson, owners of Pacabella Farm Alpacas & Boutique, have for 17 years lovingly tended a herd of Huacaya alpacas, bringing to the region a thriving agritourism business and earning legions of fans of the fluffy, angelic-looking creatures.

Huacaya alpacas are known for their dense and teddy bear-like coats, which come in 16 different colors. Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca fiber isn’t itchy, and it’s also sustainable, hypoallergenic, and breathable.

Alpacas are native to the Andes Mountains of South America. They’re a member of the camelid family, a smaller cousin of the llama, and related to the Middle Eastern camel. They were first domesticated by the Incas and raised for their precious fleece that was worn back then only by royalty. Today, 70% of the world’s alpaca population lives in Peru, but the U.S. has a considerable amount as well — 265,126 registered alpacas as of July 2022, according to the Alpaca Owners Association (AOA).

For a fee, Pacabella hosts couples, families, school and church groups, homeschoolers, and individuals with special needs. Adults and children alike can take selfies with the friendly and gentle animals and learn more about their care and feeding.

Robin Watson has what she calls her “PR alpacas,” animals who enjoy being the

The Pacabella boutique offers a variety of gifts for all ages, including these colorful alpaca pens.

In the Pacabella boutique, the Watsons sell their own proprietary natural and organic hand felted soap that acts as a wash cloth and soap in one. Varieties of the soap contain aloe, cucumber, unscented goat milk, shea, lavender, chamomile, rosemary, cedar, and thyme. A portion of the proceeds of the soap goes to the Christmas fund for the Bethany Children’s Home in Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania.

center of attention. One from that group is Clem, who has soft, brown fleece and loves to dole out kisses to visitors who come from all over the Lake, plus Roanoke, North Carolina, and beyond. Occasionally, the alpacas will visit adult care homes and assisted living facilities.

More than a business, Pacabella is a labor of love for the Watsons, and each of the alpacas has its own name and is considered part of the family. Agritourism, breeding, alpaca

sales, boarding, and retail sales of related products help support the farm. The Watsons shear their herd once a year. The fiber is then dyed and spun into yarn, which is sold in their shop.

When the Watsons consider selling some of their herd, the animals are typically sold in trios. “If we sell one alpaca, the animal would die from loneliness; if we were to sell just two, they would wear each other out constantly,” Robin explains. “A minimum of three seems to be the best number for them to be sold.”

Recently, there has been an uptick in sales to families with young children. Robin attributes this to the lessons that livestock farming teaches children. Since age 5, the Watsons’ daughter, Isabella, for whom the farm is partially named, grew up with the responsibility of helping care for the alpacas and participating in the local 4-H club.

As herd animals, alpacas are relatively easy to raise and maintain compared to larger livestock, Robin says. They do require a lot of fenced pasture land for grazing, and they leave their waste in one area, which makes for easy removal.

Virginia’s climate suits alpacas. However, the animals require shelter to stay out of full sun and don’t tolerate extreme cold, snow, or rain well. Alpacas need clean water daily and are grazing animals. They eat fescue grass from the pasture with a supplement of a higher protein orchard hay that the Watsons buy locally, as well as a grain supplement that contains minerals to aid in the growth of their fleece.

With a gestation period of 11 ½ months, the Watsons breed their alpacas in the spring for new babies that arrive the following year. Because stud males can mate until their midteens, they are kept separate from females.

Through their upbringing, alpacas are taught to be social with humans, Robin says. And while they do spit, it’s usually not directed at people but at other alpacas when irritated, typically when competing for food.

Over the years, the Watsons have had some remarkable moments while tending to their alpacas. Once, after a difficult birth, a baby alpaca was revived after lack of oxygen and subsequently bottle fed back to health after its mother refused to nurse it. Another female alpaca that was not pregnant or lactating miraculously started producing milk and began nursing the offspring. She then assumed the role of mother to the newborn, partially sustaining the baby with nutrition.

Pacabella microchips and registers its alpacas in the AOA, which bills itself as the world’s largest alpaca association. The database tracks DNA genealogy, blood typing, and ownership records of alpacas in North America. The group can be compared to its canine equivalent, the American Kennel Club.

As members of the state AOA, the Watsons can take their alpacas to shows around Virginia and over the years have won numerous ribbons and accolades. Alpacas that are between 1 and 3 years old are categorized by sex, age, and color and are judged by the quality of their fiber and ideal body shape.

In addition to alpaca fiber, the Pacabella boutique offers a multitude of alpaca gifts for all ages, including body and hand

As herd animals, alpacas are relatively easy to raise and maintain compared to larger livestock. “ “

lotions and their own brand of alpaca wet-felted soap that acts as a washcloth and soap in one. They also carry Peruviansourced fair-trade socks, scarves, gloves, and children’s toys. “The children especially love the alpaca-themed toys and stuffed animals,” Robin says.

Running the alpaca farm has benefitted the Watsons in many ways, one of which is early retirement from their careers. They’ve enjoyed their alpaca odyssey and love having visitors to their farm with tours happening year-round. “We love being a business that brings people to Franklin County,” Robin says.

Pacabella Farm Alpacas & Boutique is located at 1799 Jubal Early Hwy., Wirtz. They’re open for tours Thursday–Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., as well as other times by appointment. Learn more at pacabella.com.

Alpacas are gentle and affectionate, often doling out kisses as seen here with Pacabella co-owner Robin Watson.

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GET OUT THERE

An Appalachian Oasis in Blue Ridge Country

Story by Layla Khoury-Hanold | Photos by Aaron Spicer

As I pull into Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, the fog rolls in over the Blue Ridge Highlands, and the pale sky sets off a wispy mist rising above the grapevines. I can imagine how especially beautiful the vineyard is when it’s sunny and lush, heavy with ripe fruit that yields the property’s wines, like the golden glass of Nicewonder Vineyards Chardonnay I’m offered upon check-in.

The retreat is set on 450 acres of rolling farmland in Bristol, Virginia and was built by the Nicewonder family. The late patriarch Kenneth “Don” Nicewonder, an avid golfer, first broke ground on its sister property, The Virginian Golf Club, featuring an 18-hole golf course, club house, and residential community.

The family’s passion for wine also inspired the Nicewonders to develop a vineyard and winery. The vineyard started on six acres with viognier, chardonnay, and merlot grape varieties and has expanded to 13 acres with the addition of petit verdot. It’s now overseen by Don’s son, Kevin Nicewonder.

The initial impetus for building on-site accommodations was to provide upscale lodging for out-of-town golfers. In 2021, the property added nine luxury yurts to the mix, followed by 28 rooms at The Inn. Then in 2022 came its signature restaurant, Hickory. The Spa, which opened in early 2024, cements Nicewonder’s status as a Southwest Virginia resort destination.

Several of The Spa’s services pay homage to the land by incorporating regional geology, including the Gemstone Light and Body Treatment. This treatment is so relaxing, it borders on otherworldly (it seems apt my aesthetician is named Angel). Guests lay on a massage table topped with a special mat enmeshed with gemstones and colored lights designed to align with and balance chakra points. Treatment entails a light dry brushing, followed by a body mask containing crushed minerals, then being wrapped in a warm blanket cocoon as the mat switches to far-infrared heat and pulsed electromagnetic stimulation. The experience ends with a light but luxurious massage.

The Spa may be Nicewonder’s newest draw, but the property is gaining a reputation as a wedding destination, too. During a tasting at Nicewonder’s winery, I meet an engaged couple from D.C. who excitedly share that they’ll be taking over the entire property for their September wedding. Their guests will be treated to a weekend of chef Travis Milton’s cooking as well as Nicewonder’s on-site activities, including yoga, archery, hatchet throwing, catch-and-release-fishing in the pond (stocked with bass and bluegill), hiking, spa treatments, and perhaps a round of golf at The Virginian. Of course, they’ll also enjoy sampling wine at The Tasting Room coupled with live music, say Appalachian folk or bluegrass.

Come September, Winemaker and Vineyard Manager

Below: Winemaker and Vineyard Manager

Kevin Sutherland oversees Nicewonder’s robust operation.

Kevin Sutherland promises to take guests on his popular vineyard tour. But right now, among the winery’s barrels and tanks, all anyone can focus on is the delicious, slightly oaked 2023 Chardonnay, which bursts from the glass with bright, citrusy crispness and notes of white peach.

The wine that captivates my palate is the 2022 KDN Reserve, named for Nicewonder’s patriarch. The as-yet-unbottled red blend contains 40 percent merlot, but it’s the 60 percent petit verdot (typically used as a blending grape in Bordeaux) that gives it a gorgeous, ruby-

Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards’ accommodations include 28 rooms at The Inn and luxury yurts, along with an infinity pool overlooking the vineyard.

violet hue, blackcurrant notes, and velvety finish. Sutherland says that petit verdot is a grape that grows well here, and he plans to give it its full due by bottling a single varietal this July.

Although the Nicewonder family made its fortune in coal — the type of extractive industry that has contributed to Appalachia’s maligned reputation — there’s no denying that with the farm, vineyard, and farmfocused restaurant, they’ve built something that seeks to honor the land. “They’re really more about showcasing [the land] and want everyone to see the beauty that we have,” says Melissa Plymal, Nicewonder’s director of sales.

They’ve found an ideal partner in Chef Travis Milton to support that vision. Milton hails from nearby Castlewood and, after making a name for himself at Comfort in Richmond, was inspired to return to the area

Clockwise from right: Chef Travis Milton; butternut squash ravioli; sorghum chicken wings; the dining room at Hickory; Milton’s custom-designed hearth was designed by his grandmother’s wood stove.

and his Appalachian roots to open Hickory. Milton is quick to point out that Appalachian cuisine isn’t static; part of what makes the food at Hickory so dynamic is Milton’s ability to plumb his personal narrative and reinterpret Appalachian foodways and history through an ingredient-first lens.

Milton and his team’s culinary inspiration thrives on utilizing local produce and small-batch products from area makers and farms, including Nicewonder’s own. “Dan and Heather, our growers, are phenomenal,” Milton says. “Our beehive operation is insanely good; the honey we get is amazing because they’re feeding mostly on squash blossoms all year long. Up there at the main greenhouse, we’re able to do a lot of our herbs, some limited amounts of summer vegetables in a greenhouse environment, and they’re growing all the collards, kales, incorporating heirloom varietals as well.”

Malabar spinach, a hardy green with a sturdy, nutty bite, takes a starring turn alongside an entrée of grilled pork loin, a play on pork, sauerkraut, and mustard that Milton and Chef de Cuisine Andrew Stafford dreamt up as a nod to the area’s German and Eastern

European immigrants. The mustard-rubbed-pork is cooked sous vide in sauerkraut juices until tender, then sliced and plated atop mushroom farrotto, featuring farro from Marsh Hen Mill that’s cooked like risotto over the hearth with Tennessee buttermilk cheddar and Parmesan. These components are balanced with vibrant, tangy accompaniments including local sauerkraut, cider jus, and fermented mustard seeds. The dish sings on its own but reaches an octave higher when paired with the award-winning Nicewonder Vineyards Viognier, whose bright, citrusy vibes contrast the richness.

Dinner may leave guests still full the next morning, but don’t sleep on the breakfast buffet, especially the farm fresh scrambled eggs and stellar biscuits, which boast a pleasing crunch before yielding to the fluffy, tender layers within. I recommend a dip in the heated infinity pool anytime during a stay here, but it makes for an ideal last look, too. Just before my departure, I ease into the water and swim to the edge to soak up the breathtaking vineyard views and savor my newfound appreciation for the bounty and beauty of this slice of Appalachia.

LAKE VIEWS

A Spot in the Shade

Here Comes the Sun

So Long, Sun

A Spot in the Shade

Grant West • A large southern red oak in Moneta provides ample shade for sitting, swinging, and enjoying gorgeous lake and mountain views.

Here Comes the Sun

Angela Blue • A stunning sunrise at Bernard’s Landing makes a beautiful start to the day.

So Long, Sun

Sarah Gillespie • The sun sets at Smith Mountain Lake Community Park.

One by Air, One by Sea

Jonathan Anderson • This image was captured while boating on a beautiful, exceptionally warm fall day. “This was an exciting sight to see,” Anderson says.

Rural Retreat

Grant West • These old barns, once used for tobacco, are slowly being reclaimed by nature.

SHOW US YOUR LAKE VIEWS! Have a photo of scenery around SML that you’d like to share? We’d love to showcase your landscape and wildlife photos in a future issue. Email them to lakermag@ roanoke.com. Please include your name, the location of the photo, and a short description. Captions may be edited for clarity or space.

One by Air, One by Sea

of all real estate professionals in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeSer vices network nationally

• Lifelong Smith Mountain Lake Resident

• Specializing in luxur y homes, golf communities, waterfront proper ties, town homes and condos Associate Broker, Accredited Buyer Representative, Cer tified Residential Specialist, Graduate of Realtor Institute, Luxur y Collection Specialist

JESSE ARRINGTON (540) 947-5611 (540) 875-9991

Choosing Kendal at Lexington leaves more time for what’s important. More time for painting in the art studio or taking it en plein air to the gardens. More time for singing classes, dance clubs, and recorder groups. More time at art museums, theaters, and in the woodworking studio. Create a future that means more. Kendal at Lexington.

Learn more at kalex.kendal.org or call us at (540) 463-1910.

DOCK TALE HOUR

IT TAKES ALL KINDS

Story by Kimba Dalferes

To all the lake life full-timers out there, I salute you as a green-eyed envy monster gazing longingly from my part-timer perch. I’ve been relegated to commuter status for over a decade, but I have high hopes for morphing over to nonstop lake lover.

Friends and family know that the game plan for me and the hubs includes less work, more play. I often wax quite poetic about our little slice of paradise here in Southern Virginia. A question I frequently get from those considering life by our shore is, “What are the people like at the lake?” I find the answer to this query a bit difficult to nail down.

The adage “it takes all kinds” could never be truer than here at SML. Take, for instance, the swimmers. There are those who will stride right up to dock’s edge and plunge headfirst into the frigid waters for a chilly January swim. Not me. Hailing from Florida, my preferences skew more to late August raft lounging, when the water temperature resembles less of a polar plunge and is instead more akin to tepid bathwater. Even in May, the water is usually a bit too chilly for this sunshine gal.

We have the early birds who post to social media spectacular photos of sunlight streaming over the mountains as the sun rises, bringing golden rays of sunshine dancing across the water. On the flip side, we have a burgeoning late-night scene, thanks to local musical talent at restaurants, bars, breweries,

and even a speakeasy. May is the kickoff of our summer season and many of these fun evening festivities.

Especially as we now approach summer, you’ll see two kinds of folk emerge. There are the planners who have scheduled family reunions and 4th of July fireworks watching, picnics and hiking trips, girls’ nights out, and street-wide block parties. Conversely, there are those who most often wing it and let the flow of the day dictate the activities. A morning on the dock can evolve into a spontaneous raft tie-up in the cove with burgers and hot dogs across the backyards of neighbors. Sometimes the fishing turns on, and a few morning hours of trolling can change into a full day in the bass boat (because everyone knows you don’t turn away when the fish turn on, schedule be damned).

We have master gardeners who cultivate spectacularly hued hydrangeas in red Virginia clay soil. Others prefer a carefree condo life with no yard upkeep to burden their days. There are the beer connoisseurs who coexist with our wine enthusiasts, each with a tribe of like-minded devotees to join in exploring the local breweries and wineries.

You’ll most definitely find all sorts of people doing all manner of things here at the lake. So come on over. You’ll fit right in.

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