Country ZEST & Style Spring 2022 Edition by Country Zest & Style

SPRING 2022

FRANNY HAS A LITTLE LAMB At Gum Tree Farm, It's About the Wool ALSO INSIDE:

A Byrd Scholar | A Soaring Eagle Scout | Music, Sweet Music

Personalities, Celebrations and Sporting Pursuits

110 E. Washington St. | P.O. Box 1380 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | 540.687.5588 | sheridanmacmahon.com

ALL’S WELL FARM MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

$7,100,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

50 WEST VINEYARDS MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Existing farm winery established in 2015 | 38.47 acres recorded in two parcels | Hilltop setting with magnificent views | 2,500 sq ft wine tasting room, main level consists of tasting room, seating areas, kitchen, restrooms | 2nd story more seating areas & bathroom | Club House of 5,100 sq ft contemporary style, wine tasting bar, seating areas, bathrooms, large deck, terrace & pool | 40 x 60 Butler building, large parking area | Unique opportunity

RUTLEDGE FARM MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

$6,000,000

(also available with 113 acres for $7,000,000)

HALFWAY FARM THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Privacy and 107 acres between Middleburg and The Plains | Residential enclave of great character within a rich array of natural resources | Classic Virginia stone and stucco c. 1820 | 4 bedrooms, antique floors and rich pine paneling | Two guest houses, stone cottage, farm manager’s house, 2 stables, machine shed and work shop | Extensive Little River frontage and 2 ponds | Tremendous views

$3,975,000

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 sandra bravo GreenberG 202.308.3813

helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

ATOKA STORE

RABBIT HILL

MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

Property has been a landmark for community for decades | Major frontage on Route 50 & Atoka Rd | Commercial kitchen, beer cooler, grocery items, pizza oven, in store seating | Potential to be very lucrative | Property also improved by older home, old gas station has been renovated for potential office space or storage & stone spring house | 2 lots w/ commercial village zoning

THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Superb Fauquier County location, minutes from Middleburg | Middle of Orange County Hunt, surrounded by large properties on 10.27 acres | Hilltop setting with spectacular views | Residence built in 1988, 4 BR, 3 1/2 BA, 4 FP, attached 2 car garage, in-ground pool, deck, mature landscaping | 6 stall center aisle barn, wash stall, heated tack room, feed room, hay storage, 4 paddocks, board fencing | 140 x 165 blue stone and rubber ring | Excellent ride out

$2,700,000

$1,980,000

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 brian MacMahon 703.609.1868

LONG BRANCH

104 & 106 S. PENDLETON ST.

JOHN MARSHALL HIGHWAY

$3,950,000

THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Gorgeous 71 acre parcel in a wonderful location between Middleburg and The Plains | Rolling land with stone walls and 2 ponds | Enchanting property | Property is in conservation easement and may not be divided further

$1,950,000 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Rare opportunity | 2 recorded lots with C-3 zoning in the town of Middleburg | 2 separate buildings with 8 offices, 5 storage bays and ample parking | All buildings are in excellent condition

$1,400,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 brian MacMahon 703.609.1868

MARKHAM, VIRGINIA

162.89 acres | 3 recorded parcels in Markham, VA | Frontage on Goose Creek, land rises to great views, mountain meadows on upper portion | Access over Railroad and creek | Excellent hunting land, surrounded by large tracts

$997,160 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

A First for Middleburg: The Hunt Country Music Festival

By Leonard Shapiro

ich Kleinfeldt is known far and wide as the long-time weekend evening host on WETA Classic Radio. Off the air, he’s a highly accomplished musician, as attendees for the first Hunt Country Music Festival May 20-22 will learn when he and his heralded Washington Saxophone Quartet is scheduled to perform. And no, just because it’s four saxophonists doesn’t mean their music will be all that jazz. They play pieces ranging from Bach to The Beatles and have a huge following all around the beltway, and sometimes way beyond. “When you say saxophone, most people immediately think jazz,” Kleinfeldt said. Washington Saxophone Quartet “That’s really not unfair. But since the co-founder Rich Kleinfeldt. early 1960s, saxophone quartets have gained in popularity, and we now have musical arrangements for us so we can play any genre of music.” Produced by The Middleburg Concert Series, the inaugural three-day music festival will feature pop, classical, opera, tango, big band and more, with performances at venues in Middleburg and Upperville. Festival attendees also will enjoy free street entertainment by strolling musicians, town criers and walking tours that will highlight historic hunt country lore. Kleinfeldt, who plays tenor sax, and his soprano, alto and baritone cohorts surely are the most widely heard saxophone quartet in the nation if only because their group provides the musical interludes for National Public Radio’s highlyregarded “All Things Considered” show. Over the years, he’s also served as a fill-in announcer, weekend host, and presenter of live broadcast concerts from the Library of Congress. In addition to co-hosting the nationally syndicated radio program Center Stage from Wolf Trap, Kleinfeldt is also the on-stage emcee for Chamber Music at the Barns at Wolf Trap and performances by The City of Fairfax Band. Kleinfeldt grew up in Illinois and has been playing since high school. In 1965 he attended a music camp at Northwestern University, where one of his instructors had recently returned from Paris and had “gotten the classical music bug,” according to Kleinfeldt. At Millikin University, he played in a school quartet and also the jazz band. He was there at the height of the Vietnam War in the late 1960s, and when his draft lottery number came up, it seemed inevitable he would soon be in uniform. He was, but not in combat. A friend had told him about military bands, so he auditioned and ended up in the famed U.S. Army Band. He played with them for 13 years, and in 1976, he and one of his fellow Army musicians, Reg Jackson, decided to start the saxophone quartet. All four members of the group are now retired military musicians, and all have had other careers. Kleinfeldt has been an adjunct professor at George Mason and Catholic universities, a broadcaster for the Voice of America and a teacher and lecturer. “We’re all trying to make music an important part of our lives,” he said of hs quartet colleagues. Attendees at the first Hunt Country Music Festival will quickly know that for this Army Band veteran, it’s definitely mission accomplished. Tickets for the inaugural festival can be purchased online at Eventbrite and on-site on the day of the performance. For more information, visit huntcountrymusicfestival.org, middleburgconcerts.com and Facebook.com/middleburgconcerts.

18TH ANNUAL

SPRING FARM EQUIPMENT

AUCTION

SATURDAY, APRIL 30TH, 2022 9:00 A.M. FAUQUIER LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE, INC. 7404 JOHN MARSHALL HIGHWAY MARSHALL, VA Farm machinery, equipment, lawn and garden, vehicles, trailers, tools, implements – something for everyone!

CALL NOW TO CONSIGN YOUR ITEMS!! Fauquier Livestock Exchange (540) 364-1566 Stan Stevens, Sale Manager (540) 631-3523 No household items. No vehicles will be sold without clear title. NO EXCEPTIONS! Fauquier Livestock Exchange does not guarantee any items sold. Not responsible for accidents.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

ZES ST T & Sty t lel

Country

of NOTE

ZEST & Style ZES ST TStytlel &

Country

Personalities, Celebrations and Sporting Pursuits

for the hummingbird.

Distributed and mailed throughout the Virginia countryside and in Washington and at key Sporting Pursuits and Celebrations

MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 798 Middleburg, Virginia 20118 PHONE: 410-570-8447 Editor: Leonard Shapiro, badgerlen@aol.com Art Director Meredith Hancock Hancock Media Contributing Photographers: Doug Gehlsen, Crowell Hadden, Sarah Huntington, Missy Janes Douglas Lees, Karen Monroe and Tiffany Dillon Keen

Contributing Writers: Daniela Anderson Emma Boyce Sean Clancy Philip Dudley Mike du Pont Carina Elgin Valerie Archibald Embrey Jimmy Hatcher M.J. McAteer Peter Leonard-Morgan Joe Motheral Jodi Nash Tom Northrup Melissa Phipps Pat Reilly Linda Roberts Eugene Scheel Anita Sherman John Sherman John Toler Leslie VanSant Jimmy Wofford Louisa Woodville

For advertising inquiries, contact: Leonard Shapiro at badgerlen@aol.com or 410-570-8447

ON THE COVER It’s always fun having animals in the studio, but Franny’s little lamb was a first for us, and it was just too cute. This setup was about as basic as it can get, a key (main) light on the left, a large fill light on the right, and white FRANNY HAS A background. But this shoot was more LITTLE LAMB about posing. The first few images of a shoot are usually just warm-up shots, gets everyone accustomed to what is going on, and I make sure my settings are good. But sometimes the first few images are the best as in this case. Photoshoots can get more ambitious as they progress, usually adding more elements and different lighting setups, but this month’s shoot was perfect. Photo by Doug Gehlsen, styled by Karen Monroe of Middleburg Photo. SPRING 2022

At Gum Tree Farm, It's About the Wool ALSO INSIDE:

A Byrd Scholar | A Soaring Eagle Scout | Music, Sweet Music

Personalities, Celebrations and Sporting Pursuits

/ Country Zest and Style

/ @countryzestandstyle

/ @countryzestand1

www.countryzestandstyle.com 4

BE ON THE LOOKOUT through this Country issue of

Country

He appears in two ads and the first two readers to find him (one each) will receive a gift from THE RED TRUCK Rural Bakery, with locations in Warrenton and Marshall. Send your reply to badgerlen@aol.com

SOME INSPIRING STORIES

By Leonard Shapiro

n our winter edition of Country ZEST, we featured a group of 30- and 20-somethings who surely represent the bright and shining future of the Middleburg area. But wait until you read about two local teenagers who definitely should provide even more comfort and joy about the years ahead. Both are graduates of Middleburg’s Hill School and both now attend Highland School in Warrenton. Ellie Rose Killinger is 18, a senior and the recipient of a prestigious Byrd Scholarship awarded to the best of the very best all-around students throughout the state of Virginia. Hers is a stirring story, considering she’s had to do her final three years of high school virtually via computer because of a debilitating illness that wreaked havoc on her young life, but not her straight-A grades. Or her fighting spirit. Ellie Rose’s health is far better now and she can’t wait to walk across the stage at her Highland graduation. She’ll then keep marching north where she’s been accepted at prestigious Bryn Mawr college near Philadelphia, and for the rest of her inspiring story, keep turning the pages. You’ll also come across another interesting tale focusing on 17-year-old Highland junior Sammy Foosaner. He recently achieved Eagle Scout status in Middleburg’s Troop 2950, and his service project to reach that lofty pinnacle of scouting produced a gift that will keep on giving to locals and visitors for years to come. So turn some more to find out how.. Our cover looks at another high achiever, long time Middleburg resident Franny Kansteiner. She’s a mom and grandmother. She raises sheep for their world-class wool, then designs all manner of merchandise, from sweaters to shawls to blankets and more she displays and sells out of her Gum Tree Farm shop on Federal Street. So why is a photo of a goat—and not a sheep—accompanying this column? You’ll have to read the story on a neighborhood poker game in Aldie now celebrating its 30th anniversary. The goat doesn’t play, but definitely likes the color, and the taste, of money in the pot. Meanwhile, Spring is in the air, and so is the sound of music, ranging from all manner of local concerts featuring everything from Bach to Beatles, including the first Middleburg Music Festival, a three-day extravaganza in May. And who knew that a local Fauquier High graduate has become a world-class opera star who recently performed at the iconic Lincoln Center in New York? There are plenty more scintillating stories and fabulous photos by our superb staff. So, settle back and give yourself plenty of time to add a heaping helping of ZEST into your life.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

The spring market is heating up, choose agents who are well connected with a wealth of experience W

Middleburg Country Estate

Aldie Commercial

Eagle Rest

Corgidale

30 acres $5,900,000 Spectacular Country Estate with manicured lawns, lush woodlands and towering trees. Superbly built in a classic Tuscan style architecture, it includes 5 bedrooms 8 1/2 baths, 8 fireplaces and wood, stone and marble floors.

1.5 acres $3,390,000 An extraordinary opportunity to own an income producing property. Two parcels (may be sold separatley). Zoned Rural Commercial and Countryside Residential. Includes a 4 BR residence and a second building for use as a country store.

18+ acres $3,095,000 Exquisite Estate on a picturesque country road minutes from Middleburg! 7 BR / 8 BA, 10,000 SF of spectacular living space for a gracious & luxurious life style. Sweeping lawns & brilliant gardens, plus a free form heated pool & spa – all in a magical setting!

10+ acres $1,795,000 Stunning custom built colonial in pristine condition. Over 5000 sq. ft., open floor plan, 4-5 BRs / 5.5 BAs, granite counter tops, refinished HW floors, new carpeting and freshly painted. 2400 sq.ft. stable, 2 fenced paddocks, automatic waterers.

Mary Ann McGowan | 540-270-1124

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

Brian McGowan | 703-927-4070

ED V O E PR IC M PR

ER ACT D R UNNT O C

Aldie Residential

Bloomfield Estate

23424 Sally Mill Rd.

Ridgeside Road

1 acre $1,290,000 Beautiful and completely renovated 4 BR, 4.5 bath historic residence with over 3000 SF of charm and superior quality! All new systems, Anderson windows, silestone counters, plus a one BR apartment above, with separate entrance. 2 bay garage.

95+ acres $2,100,000 Spectacular parcel ideally located just north of Middleburg outside of the historic village of Unison. Private and secluded, with views of both the Blue Ridge and Bull Run Mountains. Open fields, lush pastures and beautiful woodlands.

44 acres $1,995,000 Ideally located on a quiet country road just east of historic Middleburg. Gracious Cape Cod home is completely renovated and available immediately. Center hall floorplan, light filled rooms, huge gourmet kitchen, six car attached garage.

14+ acres $435,000 Stunning land includes lush fields bordered by mature trees & spectacular views. Located in the heart of the prestigious Piedmont Hunt Territory, this is a perfect setting for a beautiful country estate. Easy access to Rt 7 or Rt 50. land in easement.

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

Brian McGowan | 703-927-4070

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

Jim McGowan 703-927-0233

Mary Ann McGowan 540-270-1124

Brian McGowan 703-927-4070

Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations 2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

Sammy Foosaner Soaring Like an Eagle

Gerald Murray enjoying the view courtesy of his grandson.

By Leonard Shapiro

t began when his grandparents went on a leisurely walk around the gorgeous grounds of the Hill School campus. Recently relocating to the Middleburg area, Marrilyn and Gerald Murray took the recommendation of their 17-year-old grandson and Hill graduate Sammy Foosaner and thoroughly enjoyed their stroll, with one exception. “They came over for dinner one night,” Sammy recalled. “I was talking to my grandfather and his one complaint was that there was really no place to sit down. It hit my mind right away. It was the perfect idea for my Eagle Scout project.” Sammy has been in scouting since he joined the Cub Scouts at age seven. Ten years later, he’s now an Eagle Scout, having completed his grandparent-inspired community service project. Under his supervision, including fundraising and some serious sweat equity, four sturdy benches have been placed around the Hill School property. The most spectacular site—atop Flag Hill behind the school, with a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Not long after that conversation with his grandfather, Sammy, a Junior at Highland in Warrenton, contacted Treavor Lord, Hill’s Head of School and an Eagle Scout himself. He set up a meeting that included Bob Dornin, who supervises the Hill grounds, and Sammy made his pitch. “I’ve known Sammy nearly his entire life and it’s been an honor to follow his path from young Cub Scout to Eagle,” Lord said. ‘His idea of installing benches along our walking trails so that visitors to the campus could rest and enjoy the wonderful landscape was classic Sammy: thoughtful, kind, and delivered with his signature enthusiasm.” “I drew up my design for it,” Sammy said. “I did all the research, where to find the best benches, how much it would cost. When it was over, they said they’d never seen a presentation with that level of detail. They were all for it.”

THE HILL SCHOOL VOTED #1 PRIVATE SCHOOL IN LOUDOUN COUNTY 2019, 2020, & 2021! Total education: academics, art, music, drama, and athletics for every student

Individualized, caring attention with a 6:1 studentteacher ratio

Outdoor science center, ponds and wetlands on our 140-acre campus

Bus service and before-and-after school care

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Junior Kindergarten through 8th Grade Middleburg, VA Since 1926

The finished product is equally impressive. The Bench Factory based in Batavia, Illinois provided benches made out of recycled plastic milk jugs. These environmentally friendly benches will last for at least 50 years. Sammy rounded up fellow scouts, friends, and family to help put all the pieces together, not to mention preparing the ground and the 8-foot by 8-foot raised beds where the benches are placed. The total cost was about $4,500, and Sammy wrote countless letters to potential donors. John Pennington, the owner of Marshall-based Monomoy, a full service excavation company, donated the gravel surface for each of the raised beds. Last November, Sammy and his father, Matt, put the first bench together, cleared the ground and placed it in the bed. Sammy and his volunteers handled the other three. In addition to the Flag Hill bench, one is located near the baseball diamond and two more overlook small ponds. Sammy’s Eagle Scout ceremony will be held this spring, and his bench project was one important part of the process necessary to achieve that lofty rank. He’s not the first Eagle scout in the family; his mother Terri’s two brothers also were Eagle Scouts. “What kept me going was that tradition,” Sammy said. “I want to do it with my own kids some day. Scouting has taught me so many skills. My freshman year, our troop won a raffle to attend an adventure camp in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border. “I built a shelter out of snow. We did dog-sledding, cross country skiing. It was minus-20 at night and we slept outside, but I didn’t feel cold because we had these incredible sleeping bags. I was like a mummy. It was one of the best scouting experiences I’ve ever had.” Sammy is a member of Troop 2950 in Middleburg, led by scoutmaster Jay Hubbard and troop chairwoman Teri Domanski. Over the last five years, eight members have earned Eagle Scout status. Sammy is properly proud of being in those prestigious ranks. But his real reward came not long after he and his grandfather took another walk around the Hill campus. “When he saw people were actually sitting down and using the benches, I’ve never seen him so happy,” Sammy said. “He would tell them ‘my grandson built all these.’ The smile on his face is a memory I’m going to have for the rest of my life.”

Sammy Foosaner

Antique Arms, Edged Weapons & Armor Since 1957

Dealers and Appraisers for Fine Antique Firearms, Edged Weapons & Armor

www.davidcondon.com Recipient of the United States Department of the Interior Citation for Public Service

(Visit our online catalog) We are always looking to buy vintage guns, daggers,

Purchasing and consigning quality antique arms ofmedals, all types swords, knives, bayonets, uniforms, flags, belts, since 1957. Appraisers and other collectable militaria.We to the Smithsonian, thebuckles National Park Service and also thepurchase National Firearms Museum. sporting gun and military related books, gun related Recipient of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Citation for Public Service. tools, vintage ammunition, etc. If you have any antique or collectable you want Address: to Visit our shop!military or gun items thatMailing sell please contact us for more information our Box 7 109 E. Washington St (Rt. 50) Post on Office appraisal services, consignment rates or outright sale.VA 20118 Middleburg, VA 20117 Middleburg,

Free 1-800-364-8416 Te. 540-687-5642 • FaxToll 540-687-5649 • Email: info@davidcondon.com 109 E. Washington (Rt. 50) Post Office Hours:St.Tues.-Fri. 10-5:30 • Sat. 10-3Box 7 Middleburg, VA 20117 Middleburg, VA 20118 Tel. 540-687-5642 Fax 540-687-5649 Email: info@davidcondon.com www.davidcondon.com

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

May 13th Online Auction Begins May 20, 2022 Auction Reception, 6:00-8:00 pm

Slater Run Vineyards

1500 CRENSHAW ROAD |UPPERVILLE, VA

William Bensen Misia Broadhead Teresa Duke Leanne Fink J Forte Jillian Holland Bonnie Hoover Laura Hopkins Cody Leeser Winslow McCagg Deborah Morrow Marci Nadler Lee Newman Lilla Ohrstrom Elizabeth Parris Jill E. Poyerd Katherine Riedel Bill Rock Lori Simmerman Goll Antonia Walker Jessica Wilson Cathy Zimmerman

artofthepiedmont.org Tickets available online ONLY

Online bidding begins May 13th, 2022 5PM Through May 20th, 2022 8PM A benefit for Middleburg Montessori School 8

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Jillian Holland

Ellie Rose:

A Remarkable Teenager in Full Bloom “Ellie Rose is a remarkable young woman. She has complemented her natural intelligence and creativity with a remarkable work ethic and optimism that should be an inspiration to all of us.” — Treavor Lord, Head of

Hill School Ellie Rose Killinger

She is president of Highland’s “Girl Up” Club, with a mission of providing educational resources for women in Third World countries. Her sister Chloe, a junior at Highland, is vice president, and the club has also organized a fundraiser and a clothing drive to help less fortunate women, some homeless, some abused.

By Leonard Shapiro

s a freshman at Highland School in Warrenton, Ellie Rose Killinger was definitely exhibiting all the same Type A characteristics that had marked her years at the Hill School in Middleburg. Outstanding student. A full plate of extracurricular activities. A member of the Highland varsity field hockey team. Then and now, sings like an angel and plays the piano, too. Suddenly, in the fall of her sophomore year, it all changed.

The Killingers: Lilly, Ellie Rose, Chloe and Keegan.

First came the constant nausea, initially attributed to anxiety and a lack of sleep. Then it got worse. By Thanksgiving, she was bedridden in her Middleburg home, her body constantly aching, her face broken out in a butterfly rash unfolding across both cheeks.

“She has shown great strength and maturity in what felt like an impossible situation. She currently manages her Lupus with such grace, the same way she walks through life.”

She’d been treated at John Hopkins Hospital, and in February, 2020, she was admitted. Finally came the diagnosis: Central Nervous System Lupus (CNS), a debilitating and life-threatening systemic autoimmune disease characterized by multiple immunologic abnormalities. The chemotherapy started on Valentine’s Day and a regimen of steroids soon followed, leading to this vibrant, vivacious red-headed teenager literally unable to recognize her own swollen face in the mirror. “I went to my uncle’s house one day and he shook my hand as if I was someone he’d never met.” she recalled. “He didn’t recognize me. I had lost most of my hair from chemo. It was a very scary place to be.” All this and a compromised immune system, coming at the same time period as a worldwide Covid pandemic. Clearly, going back to the classroom was out of the question, and for her final three years at Highland, she has been studying virtually, at home in front of the computer. And not only studying. Excelling. In everything. “I love to learn,” she said. “When I was little, my

– Angela Killinger, Ellie Rose’s proud mom parents used to call me ‘Little Professor.’ I guess I was talking pretty early.” Two months ago, 18-year-old Ellie Rose Killinger was named a recipient of a prestigious $20,000 Byrd Scholarship, awarded to outstanding high school seniors around the Commonwealth. It’s a rigorous application process, including an intense interview in front of a committee of public officials. “When I went to Richmond, there were 15 people in the room,” she said. “I was not expecting that. When I finished, I was drenched in sweat. It was pretty intense.” Still, rarely has there been a more qualified candidate. Despite her health-related issues, including tremendous bone pain that still occasionally bites hard, Ellie Rose has been far more than just a scholar.

As a sophomore, she began blogging about her illness on Instagram. During her junior year, she started the “Ellie Rose Strong” foundation, with a website designed to provide information and more awareness about Lupus and other chronic illnesses. The foundation also sells specially designed t-shirts and sweatshirts, with all proceeds going to medical research. There’s more. This year, she’s been tutoring two elementary school students. And this spring, she’ll be a teaching intern at Hill School. She’s also been immersed in picking a college. On a trip to visit Haverford outside Philadelphia, she and her mother, Angela, decided to take a quick look at the nearby Bryn Mawr campus. Ellie Rose fell in love with the school, and will start her freshman year there in the fall. As for the CSN, it’s mostly under control, despite her anemia. She finished her last chemo session earlier this winter, and the steroid doses have been reduced considerably. Her flaming red hair has mostly all grown back, and she surely would be justified to use her own angelic voice to sing the iconic West Side Story lyric, “I feel pretty, oh so pretty.” These days, she can’t wait to go to college. She’s particularly interested in courses in education, psychology and journalism “because I love to write.” “I’m still dealing with the Lupus,” she said, smiling all the way. “Some days are good, some not so good.” A very good day is coming in a few weeks when she will attend, in person, her Highland graduation to accept her high school diploma. And no matter what, there’s no question this inspiring young woman will always stay Ellie Rose Strong.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

A Cherished Old Grave Site at River Creek & WINE COUNTR T N Y’ S HU

b o b C ler H y e n i o ll t S 10551 COBBLER VALLEY LANE

DELAPLANE, VA

AIRBNB/VRBO 4 bedroom, 3 bath home. This home is nestled in Virginia Hunt Country, just minutes to 66, and an easy 45 minute commute in to DC. Surrounded by wineries, horsing events, parks, and quaint towns bursting with events and great restaurants, the location, peace, and tranquility will make you feel right at home. 7 Tvs and bright, cheery furnishings throughout. This newly remodeled home with all new appliances, flooring, and a fully stocked kitchen, now features a whole~house generator! Guests will never be without power!!

By Joe Motheral

n 2002, a resident of River Creek, a gated community located between the Potomac River and Goose Creek, found a tombstone resting near a tall tree. The inscription on the stone tablet read, “Bazil Newman departed this life July 8, 1852 at the age of 72 years nine months.” According to information at the Balch Library in Leesburg, Newman had been the boatman on Edwards Ferry and his family cemetery, as shown on the County Cemetery Map, was located within what is Bazil Newman gravesite at now the River Creek community River Creek in Leesburg. along Olympic Boulevard. The River Creek Homeowners Association maintains the historic cemetery. The U.S. Census of 1850 recorded “Bassell (sic) Newman, black,” and as “head of the household Basil (sic) Newman in 1835 purchased 119 acres of land along Goose Creek.” According to a staffer at the Balch LIbrary, “that meant he couldn’t have been a slave. He had to have been free to have owned land.” Marc Montgomery, the developer of River Creek, had the headstone set in concrete, put up a plaque and sponsored a dedication ceremony in February, 2008. Pauline Singletary, the chairperson of the Loudoun County Black History Committee, was in attendance that day and said, “We think that Bazil Newman was part of the underground railway, transporting escaped Black slaves across the river into Maryland where they went on to points north.” There also is evidence that Philadelphia abolitionists listed names of former Loudoun County slaves then living in that city. Bazil Newman eventually owned 186 acres, within the 500-plus acres of the present day River Creek community. He farmed the land, apparently raising wheat, and also operated the ferry. In 1839, he ran an ad in Leesburg’s Genius of Liberty weekly newspaper announcing that he “may always be found at his post and the most careful.” Along Goose Creek, according to records from the Balch Library, William Shreve, a White man, owned a warehouse back then that was constructed on the other side of Goose Creek from the land Newman had purchased in 1835. Shreve also placed several ads in Genius of Liberty. “Bazil Newman, well known as an old and experienced boatman, who will attend at the warehouse to receive and forward goods.” At some point, Newman later joined two others in the ownership of Elizabeth Mill located along Goose Creek. This being the period before the advent of railroads, goods were often transported via waterways. Just downstream from where Goose Creek enters the Potomac are the remnants of locks that were used to hoist boats on to the C&O Canal. It afforded opportunities for the warehouse to send grain into the Washington, D.C. area.

YOUR HOST: MARTHA WILLIAMSON | 304.283.1593 FOR BOOKINGS: PLEASE VISIT AIRBNB OR VRBO HTTPS://WWW.VRBO.COM/2162489?UNITID=2727025 HTTPS://WWW.AIRBNB.COM/H/STONEYCOBBLERHILL

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Records at the Balch Library indicated Newman was born in November, 1779 and by 1820. He had three sons, Basil, Benjamin and Robert. Benjamin carried on the family tradition by operating Edwards Ferry after his father’s passing. More than 170 years after his death, efforts are still ongoing trying to locate present-day relatives of Bazil Newman.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Breathing New Life at Another Blue Moon Consignment

“I

By Linda Roberts

love the idea that we’re providing new life for our consignors’ items,” said Kerry Dale, who, with her business partner Jennifer Andrews, operate Another Blue Moon, a unique consignment shop in Middleburg. Speaking of “going to the shop,” rather than “going to work,” the two women have crafted a delightfully different type of store that features high-end furniture, antiques, art and accessories. The shop has proven itself an enjoyable endeavor for the partners who have been friends for more than thirty years. After beginning several years ago as a pop-up shop with six partners, three partners formed the permanent business. Former partner Jimmie Emmett continues to contribute. “He was instrumental in our growth and is one of the most talented and knowledgeable people around.” Dale said. Business is brisk on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at their upscale home goods boutique at 7A West Washington Street. When they’re not in the shop, Dale and Andrews are found meeting with prospective clients to look over items intended for consignment or at the barn where they store overage from the shop. They have found the business atmosphere in town to be “really friendly” and referrals come in frequently from other local merchants as well as from realtors. Word of mouth is high on their list to bring in new clients and Instagram is also a popular

Photo by Linda Roberts

Another Blue Moon partners Jennifer Andrews and Kerry Dale find that upholstered pieces are popular for consignment and resale. vehicle to promote Another Blue Moon. “Our challenge is to pair things,” said Andrews, looking around the shop at lamps and accessories that have been paired with furniture to display each piece to its best advantage. Shoppers come back to find a specific piece and, thinking its been sold, Andrews and Dale will quickly point out it was just moved to a different location to blend in better with

its surroundings. That’s the challenge and the fun of the business according to the partners, “making things fit together when you think perhaps it wouldn’t work.” Another challenge: getting a fair price for the consignor, while at the same time presenting a reasonable price for the prospective buyer. A visitor to the shop on a recent balmy Saturday morning found quality pieces, lamps, rugs, mirrors, draperies, artwork, china and jewelry, to name a few categories, as well as any number of pieces that qualify as accessories, including a lovely selection of Hungarian made Herend china figurines in a glass showcase. Upholstered furniture is quite popular now, and the partners say that young people are looking for classical lines and moving toward the “warm and cozy” trend in decorating. “It’s a joy to help people repurpose their furniture,” said Andrews, who supports her buyers in finding the right piece for their home. “These pieces all have a story—they had a life before,” she adds, speaking of a secretary sold at the store that once belonged to a former First Lady. “We love that we are supporting an environmentally friendly trend--reuse, reduce, recycle,” said Kerry Dale. “A new life for items that have a lot of life left in them.” Another Blue Moon is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and Monday through Wednesday by appointment. More information is available on Instagram and Facebook.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Photos by Diana McClure and Jessica Rich

A True Horseman With a Keen Eye, A Gentle Hand and A Tall Tale Well Told

Billy Turner

riends and family gathered at Field and Main in Marshall for a memorial dinner in remembrance of race horse trainer Billy Turner (1940-2021). His career included what only eleven trainers since 1919 have accomplished-winning the coveted Triple Crown trophy that goes to the winners of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Turner won with Seattle Slew in 1977 and the horse warmed the hearts of many. His wife, Pat Turner, assisted by her daughter, Jessica Rich, and Tom Gorman presented a captivating slide show. Many spoke and nine-year-old grandson Silas Turner channeled his grandpa with a jaunty tweed cap. There were tears and laughter, with flowers emulating the Kentucky Derby blanket of red roses, Preakness Black-eyed Susans and Belmont white carnations.

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Grandson Silas Turner, age 9

Triple Crown trophy

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

WE’RE CELEBRATING TEN YEARS!!!!! Christian, Sean, Duane, Cyndi, Justin, Kayla, Nate, Skylar, Yaz and Jessica of Middleburg Common Grounds are so grateful for everyone’s support these 10 years! It has always been a joy for us to be able to provide you with our best service. We believe that business and community go hand-in-hand. You are the heart and soul of our business, without you there would be no us! Without your support, the vision we had would remain in our hearts and minds. We are honored to be a part of this lovely town and the surrounding communities. It is humbling for us to have your continued support for this gathering place called Middleburg Common Grounds. When we moved into the neighborhood, it was you who made us immediately welcome! Your support makes all the hard work worthwhile. You helped us to fulfill a desire to make a difference in our community. Providing a cheerful, welcome and happy relaxing atmosphere. Gratitude is a powerful emotion. Because of you, our hearts are overflowing. God willing, we will continue to be your gathering place for many years. Louis Armstrong says it best. “I see friends shaking hands, saying how do you do, they really mean, I love you!” It truly is a Wonderful World! Love and Gratitude, Christian, Sean, Duane, Cyndi, Justin, Kayla, Nate, Skylar, Yaz and Jessi

MIDDLEBURG COMMON GROUNDS 114 W. Washington Street • Middleburg, VA • 540.687.7065

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

At Nichols Hardware, It’s More Than Nuts and Bolts PHOTOS © by Sarah Huntington

Nichols 1991

The 2022 Nichols staff, left to right: Hollister Vea. Rick Barton, Marla Huff, Kirsten Troesch, Brenda Berger, Richard Beard, Valerie Campbell, Bennett Franzen, Pam Hagerhorst, Dominick Alario, Ben Weisse and Geoffrey Campbell. Note: Rick Barton (second from left) is in all the Nichols portraits.

By Drew Babb

t’s Saturday in the last decade of the 20th century. A D.C. tour bus glides into Main Street of Purcellville. Everybody climbs the front steps to Nichols Hardware. Before reboarding, one wide-eyed visitor buttonholes the owner, the late Ted Nichols. “How often do they open this historical exhibit?” he asks, thinking he’s just seen some sort of Smithsonian display. Had Ted not been a gentleman, he might have shot back, “Listen, Bub, we’ve been open every day since December, 1914.” In every decade since 1991, my wife, photographer Sarah Huntington, has gathered the staff for a portrait in front of the walls of oak drawers filled with hinges, bolts, and millions of gimcracks and doodads you often can’t find anywhere else. Nichols Hardware has always seemed to be in a time warp, such a treasured institution that Sarah, our video partner, Peter Buck, and I shot a documentary there called “The Last Hardware Store” in 2011. Take a gander at the 2022 photo. Squint real

hard, and you might detect a gender sea change. It’s not the male bastion it once was. The boss is no longer a “Nichols Man.” Seventh from the left you’ll see the new boss, Valerie Campbell, related to the Nichols family by marriage. The same Valerie Campbell, DVM, who runs the Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates down the road in Purcellville. You might also spot computer registers and scanners. No more hand-written receipts and the old fashioned “knuckle buster” credit card machines. Still in the picture, and in the store, is that irreplaceable Nichols vibe. The creaking floor, the bell-ringing door, the reflections off the tin panel ceiling. And those men and women? They’re still dispensing advice and serving as the antidote to the big box hardware stores. They’re omnipresent and actually helping their customers. The Nichols family and staff likely would recoil at the use of a French quote to describe their store. But here goes: plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose. The translation: The more Nichols has changed, the less Nichols has changed. Praise be.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Nichols 2001

Nichols 2011

MAY 17-21 2022 5 FILMS IN 5 DAYS !

Dinner & a Documentary with picnic baskets from some of our area’s best restaurants on the Middleburg Community Center amphitheater lawn

FILMS ANNOUNCED APRIL 8TH

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Photo by Doug Gehlsen Middleburg Photo

Running and Jumping and a Sip of The Widow By Vicky Moon

uddenly, the steeplechase season is upon us. First, begin with the corkscrew and start making a list of what to take for a tailgate. Additional essential items are napkins, ice and garbage bags, in order to leave no trace. (See https://lnt.org)

Photo by Vicky Moon

The John Barton Payne Trophy is presented on Labor Day weekend at the Warrenton Horse Show . It provides the prefect presentation.

Robin Keys has the tailgate down perfectly. “Vueve Clicquot, country ham and a kick-ass dessert (or two),” she said. “The most important element is presentation.” The dynamic duo of Al Griffin and Will Allison share the chief duties for the Gold Cup, scheduled this this year on Saturday May 7 at Great Meadow in The Plains. There will be $390,000 in purses on a day that will include the 96th running of the feature race. “It was pure happenstance that Will and I both wore the same hue of jacket for this photo for ZEST,” Al Griffin noted. “I’ve followed Will in life for over 40 years, through the dental profession and with the Warrenton Hunt as Joint Masters of Foxhounds. So I’d like to think that some of his impeccably good taste has rubbed off on me.” For details on tickets and tailgates: https://www.vagoldcup.com/va/tickets. Photo by Doug Gehlsen Middleburg Photo

The 101st Middleburg Spring Races will take place on Saturday, April 23 at Glenwood Park. Gates will open at 10 a.m., stick pony races at 11:30 a.m., opening ceremonies at noon and the first race at 1 p.m. There will be races over hurdles, timber and on the flat with $215,000 in purses offered. Details: https://www.middleburgspringraces.com, or call 540-687-6545

Vueve Clicquot translates from French as “the widow Clicquot.” A well-traveled connoisseur will order “a glass of the widow” at Harry’s Bar in Venice or at what is now known as the “Champagne Bar” just off the lobby at The Plaza Hotel in New York. (Tip: read the book The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It. )

Photo courtesy of Horse Country Saddlery.

Barrett Zurbruegg and her fiancé, Fritz Reuter, are “absolutely” planning a tailgate. “Snacking on the tailgate food throughout the day is one of the best parts,” she said. “I like to do Red Fox fried chicken, ham and poppyseed sandwiches, deviled eggs, fresh fruit salad, and some other finger foods.” She also loves to bake, and will have fresh cookies or brownies for everyone to grab. She concludes with this thought: “Pair all that with a Mimosa or a Bloody Mary and it’s a perfect day.”

TAJÍN® is a unique seasoning made with a simple blend of mild chili peppers, lime, and sea salt. TAJÍN® adds a ZING to all your favorite foods, fruits, and veggies, that makes what’s good taste even better. It is produced in Zapopan, Mexico from world-class chilis sourced from farmers in the region and then exported to the U.S. as a packaged and branded product to be sold at wholesale and retail and is approved by the USDA. It is a registered trademark item like TABASCO® Original Red Pepper Sauce. And finally, a sweet treat. Hand-painted iced sugar cookies by Daniela Stephanz Anderson, Countryside Confections LLC, Middleburg, VA. Order: DanielaStephanzAnderson@gmail.com

SMOKY CHIPOTLE HUMMUS From Karen Monroe of Middleburg Photo 2 – cans (15½ ounce) of chickpeas (one for topping) 1 - juice of 1 lemon, squeezed 2 - cloves of garlic, minced ¾ teaspoon of pink salt or favorite fine salt ½ cup of tahini Ice water ¾ - teaspoon cumin spice 1 - Tablespoon olive oil 1 - Tablespoon chipotle peppers from the can 2 - Tablespoons chipotle juice from the can Tajín® Clásico Seasoning seasoning or paprika

Marion Maggiolo, owner of Horse Country Saddlery in Warrenton, has won the Virginia Gold Cup Tailgate Competition five times. For food, she recommends poached salmon, tenderloin, huge strawberries and only a basic bar. “No special cocktails. Men like bourbon and Scotch.” Her tips include: “Be sure food holds up in the hot sun it sits out for four or five hours, bring lots of ice and cups. You will run out of both. Set up early and hold your guests back from eating too soon. Photographers want to snap a tidy, well-done table.” This platter of jockey silks is available at Horse Country Saddlery in Warrenton.

Olive oil & seasoning to sprinkle over the top 1: In a blender, puree 1 can of chickpeas, juice of 1 lemon, minced garlic, salt, until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed. 2: Add tahini and cumin and pulse with 3 Tablespoons of ice water. Add water, more as needed. 3: Add a few chipotle peppers and juice from can on blender pulse mod, scraping down the sides as needed. Crunchy Chickpea Topping Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Drain the 2nd can of chickpeas and place on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes until crispy. Place hummus in a bowl, dribble the olive oil around hummus, add the crunchy chickpeas to one side with some thyme out of your garden. Finally, sprinkle with Tajín® seasoning to make it pretty. Substitute smoked paprika for Tajín®. Serve with your favorite vegetables and crackers.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Oatlands Historical House and Gardens

im Donegan has more than 40 years of experience as an ISA Certified Arborist, he was one of the first to become certified. With his leading knowledge and leadership, he has created a well-respected and professional tree care company that focuses on providing you and your trees the utmost care. Jim has worked in many historical places across the northern Virginia and D.C. area including, but not limited to, the White House and Oatlands Historical House and Gardens. Donegan’s Tree Service is the leading tree company in the region that offers tree inventories to property owners that have more than 50 serviceable trees on their property.

What makes a tree inventory so special? Take a look at what a tree inventory will give you: • Helps prevent costly tree loss damage • Mitigates unplanned budget expenditures • Protects property and property values • Helps generate a 3-to-5-year maintenance plan • Labels and records specie names, width, and height • Creates a unique identifying tree ID number • Collects GPS coordinates for all trees tagged • Helps to keep trees healthy • Helps to prevent hazards • Provides information to calculate Carbon and Carbon Dioxide sequestering totals and yearly yields • Reduces liability by providing accurate and up to date information with urban forest metrics such as total of all tree, species, age, size, condition, and diversification

REACH OUT TO US AND BE ONE OF THE NEXT 20 PROPERTY OWNERS TO GET A FREE INVENTORY DONE ON YOUR PROPERTY If you approve a 3-to-5-year tree inventory maintenance plan that’s part of the inventory! Have our expertise, knowledge, and experience work to showcase your property’s natural and majestic beauty.

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Beef, Produce and Nature’s Best Hope So Much More with Dr. Douglas Tallamy May 25, 6:00pm $10 / Free for NSLM Members

By Marcia Woolman

he Middleburg area’s very own The Store at Locust Hill is providing locally grown and raised products including their own beef, eggs, sweet corn, and produce in the summer and pumpkins in the fall. That just scratches the surface of what’s available, with one thing in common throughout the store—it’s all very local. Village Cheese Works’ gourmet cheeses, fresh baked pretzels from The Preppy Pretzel, yummy baked goods from Countryside Confections, duck eggs, and in season fruit comes from neighboring farms. There’s honey from Loudoun, a carrousel of spices from Shenandoah County, and Poppi’s hot sauces and rubs from Warrenton. They also carry Lone Oak Coffee products. Locust Hill has been a keystone farm in the Orange County Hunt country for many years, and a model of land preservation in northern Fauquier. It sprawled over 1,000 acres, owned by a stalwart of the community, the late Maggie Bryant, and is now divided into five parcels shared by her family. The farm store is the idea of family members Michael and Rebecca Webert. It’s right off Zulla, about a mile from Middleburg, and easy to find. The same parcel of land will also be the core of its beef operation, with well over 100 head of cattle grazing in the surrounding fields.

A global decline in insects and birds is a bleak reminder about how ineffective our current landscape has been at sustaining the plants and animals that sustain us. So, what can we do? Dr. Tallamy will discuss how to create landscapes that enhance local ecosystems rather than degrade them.

The small wooden farm store is designed for year-round use, with a cozy interior and a covered area outside for the display of seasonal products, including countless pumpkins available last fall not long after the store opened. When Rebecca Webert was asked about the goals for the project, she said, “to offer everything as local as possible, educate the public about where and what creates good food, and also the hard labor and love that produces it. We can have conversations with the customers that they can’t have in a grocery store.” “On today’s media you can get mixed messages about health and food,” said Michael Webert, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates. “So farm decisions are made using good science. This is true in the breeding program, and land use decisions.

Visit www.NationalSporting.org to sign-up today National Sporting L i br a r y & M use u m Middleburg, VA 20118 | NationalSporting.org

“In past years we’ve fenced 11,000 feet of stream riparian buffers to keep cattle out of our section of Cromwell’s Run, and we installed mechanical water systems for them. The science on stream health is critical to the vitality of our watershed and to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.” And so, while it’s a farm store with the flair of a gourmet shop, there’s a big dollop of conservation in the mix, as well. For more information on the store, go to:storeatlocusthill.com which is just south of Route 50 and open Wednesday through Saturday with varied hours to accommodate customer’s schedules.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Greer’s Antiques GREER’S ANTIQUE CONSERVATION Quality you can trust n

By Adam Erby

new exhibition at George Washington’s Mount Vernon includes 30-plus pieces of Custis family silver as part of “The Story of an American Icon.” This collection is now complete thanks to a donation from Betsee Parker of Huntland in Middleburg.

Join us for our 2nd Annual

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November 8 & 9, 2014 37627 Allder School Road 10am-4pm

Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.6607 www.greersconservation.com greersant@gmail.com

Open Monday - Friday 9-4 & Weekends by Appointment Museum Level Conservation and Custom Furniture for 44 years

37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.6607 greersant@aol.com Regular hours are by appointment only

Donation from Betsee Parker Completes A Set of Custis Silver At Mount Vernon

The donation is a two-part English silver wine funnel, ordered by George Washington for his stepson, John Parke Custis, in 1884. “ I’m hoping this gift will stimulate others to remember Mount Vernon,” said Betsee, who also donated a spoon.

Custis wine funnel (top and bottom right) Made by John Carter II London, 1774-1775 Donated to Mount Vernon As the American colonies moved toward by Betsee Parker independence in the 1770s, British consumers experienced a revolution of their own, a revolution in style. Fueled by recent archaeological discoveries in the Roman cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, London designers adopted a more severe classical aesthetic that embraced simplicity, symmetry, and the repetition of simple design motifs while rejecting the fanciful exuberance, natural forms, and asymmetry of the French rococo. When Martha Washington’s only son, John “Jacky” Parke Custis, married Eleanor Calvert, the couple likely wrote to London requesting a silver service in the latest style to furnish their tea table, dining table, and sideboard. The extraordinary service they received fully embraced the new aesthetic, known today as neoclassicism. London silversmith John Carter supplied a “Tea Kitchen,” or hot water urn, which Custis tea kitchen or hot water urn became the centerpiece of Eleanor Custis’s Made by John Carter II tea table. The piece is a tour-de-force of the London, 1774-1775 silversmiths’ art, carefully hammered and Purchase, 1932 raised from small, flat ingots of silver to form the elements of the body, which the artisan then soldered together to form the whole. The silversmith made the piece in the form of a classical urn, a type of vase often fitted with a cover, which was one of the central design motifs of the neoclassical era. In keeping with the restrained style, the body is entirely symmetrical and largely devoid of decoration when compared to its predecessors. Beyond the repeated rows of reeding and beading, the carefully engraved Custis coat-ofarms and crest serves as the main form of decoration, marking both the couple’s ownership of the piece and their aristocratic bearings. Jacky and Eleanor Custis were early adopters of the neoclassical style in America, and their silver service is one of the largest and most important markers of this stylistic shift surviving from colonial America. After the Revolutionary War, Americans enthusiastically embraced the new style, just as they began to set up their own government. Americans combined the English style with their own symbols to form a style often known today as federal. Adam Erby is curator of fine and decorative arts at George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

The Silver Tones Just Keep Swinging

By Anita L. Sherman

lenn Miller. Benny Goodman. Tommy Dorsey. Duke Ellington. Woody Herman. Coming out of the Great Depression, the sounds of these musical titans and many others during the 1930s and ‘40s lifted the spirits of a nation that had been caught in the grip of economic and social malaise as well as a World War. Swinging into a new era was just the ticket to help propel people forward…to make them feel good again. “Music is curative, it’s enriching,” said Dave Shuma, who, along with his wife, Wendy Marie, created The Silver Tones Swing Band in 2012. Ten years later, their music continues to liven up any gathering—a private birthday celebration, a charity ball, a New Year’s Eve gala and anything else in between. “It started in our garage,” said trumpeter Dave, who has watched the band grow over the years to now include more than a dozen volunteer professional musicians from the Northern Virginia area. “It’s the best music ever,” said Wendy Marie. In addition to partnering with Dave and The Silver Tones, she’s had 18 years with the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra as assistant principal on the French horn. It’s not an easy instrument to master, but one that offers “good pitch.” “You could sing,” Dave said, looking lovingly at his wife and remembering when they created their own version of the Andrews Sisters, the Silver Belles vocal trio, with Wendy Marie as lead vocalist. She’s

Photo by Patrick Nye

The musical dynamic duo of vocalist Wendy Marie and trumpeter Dave Shuma lead The Silver Tones Swing Band. now joined by Larke Pain, Laura Mills and Mitzi Fox. Wendy Marie and Gene Bates are also solo vocalists sharing the music of Natalie Cole and her father, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Bette Midler, Peggy Lee and many others. “There are just so many good songs,” said Wendy Marie, noting how they like to mix things up depending on the audience and the venue. Fundraising plays a major role in their passion

to spread their music. And education is a key component, as well. They’ve donated thousands over the years to various musical programs in the local middle and high schools. During the process, music students are often given the opportunity to play with the band. “It’s a thrill for them and us,” said Wendy Marie. “They get to feel what it’s like to be part of something larger…and to be encouraged and supported in their musical pursuits.” The Silver Tones have performed all over the D.C. Metropolitan area, including the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum, the Harris Pavilion, and the Hylton Performing Arts Center among many others. “The Silver Tones worked hard to help make our 100th Anniversary Gala the best Chamber event that I remember attending,” said Marianne Clyde, then chairwoman of the Fauquier Chamber of Commerce board when it was held last November. “They were fully invested in making it a success. They were easy to work with and flexible. They kept our guests dancing all the way until the end of the party.” Playing for veterans’ groups is another venue they particularly enjoy. Dave works closely with the VFW out of Culpeper and regularly plays the bugle at military services. “We all need ways to feel better,” he said. “Music can do that. And we haven’t missed a beat.” Contact: Wendy Marie or Dave Shuma silver.tones@ yahoo.com or at www.SilverTonesSwingBand.com.

An Afternoon of Song

High Tea with Brahms

Tickets at eventbrite.com huntcountrymusicfestival.org QuinTango

An Evening of Concerto

MAY 20 - MAY 22 3-Day Music Extravaganza in Middleburg & Upperville

Presented by Middleburg Concert Series

Washington Saxophone

Quartet

Illinois Arts Duo Swing Shift

Free Events include: Youth Music Competition Finals • Brass on the Grass Street Performers • Walking Tours

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Tales From THE HUNT FIELD

Cutting Back on the Yakkety Yak

By Mike du Pont

y early days of hunting were with the Orange County Hunt. Cappy Smith was Master and Melvin Poe the Huntsman and our country was wide open and well paneled. Saturdays were our best days because all the swells were out and the Hunt wanted to make sure it was a good day. (Back then, I was about half-a-swell.) It was a lovely late November or early December morning, but for some reason, scenting was difficult and the hounds were having a hard time getting a line straightened out. Still, the weather was just right, our horses were going nicely and all was well with the world. The previous night’s cocktail party also had been lots of fun, resulting in plenty to talk about the next morning from us neophytes in the field. I was riding next to Lucy Moorhead, an attractive woman married to a Pittsburgh Congressman. We were riding just behind the Master, chatting as we rode and having a grand old time. So much so that our yakking may have proved a distraction to the hounds trying to solve the difficulties of Mr. Charlie’s (as in, The Fox) line.

Cappy Smith on Flamingo at Madison Square Garden.

In an open jumper class, Cappy Smith on Margo.

It was possible he had pulled one of those typically elusive sly foxy tricks—running down a flowing stream or dashing along the top of a stone wall where scent lays very poorly.

the aroma of all the cattle droppings. On this glorious day, Mr. Charlie did not employ that tactic and as we rode, we just kept chatting along. At one point, our conversation grew so enthusiastic our Master could stand it no longer. Finally, Cappy Smith whirled about in his saddle and barked, “Mike, be quiet and watch the hounds!”

I’ve personally witnessed a fox swerve off his course toward a herd of cattle. As he approaches, in order not to spook them, the fox will slow to a trot and move quietly through the middle of the cattle. The cows somehow manage to stay calm, and of course, his fox scent is lost because it’s mingling with

Of course, I did exactly as I was told. And, I must say, my knowledge and enjoyment of hunting improved immediately and forever after.

CFC Farm & Home Center | Celebrating 90 years | 1932-2022 Chicks are here! Check with your local CFC Farm & Home Center to see what’s available. Cruise into spring at the Co-op!

3 locations in Fauquier County

Morrisville 540-439-3254 12375 Harpers Run Rd Bealeton Marshall Warrenton 540-364-1533 540-347-7100 8222 E Main St 143 Washington St 22

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

VirginiaGold CupRaces WWW.VAGOLDCUP.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 7, 2022

Christ’s Chapel: Mission Accomplished

Mrs. Mary Montague Laird was laid to rest. As the years passed, the chapel remained an active ministry of St. James’, with baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals conducted there for generations. The last burial was in March 1915.

By John T. Toler

ue to difficult road and weather conditions, during the 19th century several Fauquier County congregations established branch “mission churches” in outlying areas. On Sundays, pastors would travel by horse-and-buggy to those satellite churches after preaching at the home church. One such mission church was established by St. James Episcopal Church on Baldwin’s Ridge east of Warrenton to serve communicants living in the area. Planning began in 1878 during the ministry of Rector Rev. George W. Nelson, who appointed a Board of Trustees to carry out the project, which would include the chapel and cemetery grounds. The original plan called for the mission church to be built in New Baltimore, but when Joseph W. Blackwell offered to donate property at Mates Hill on Baldwin’s Ridge, it was decided to build there. Money for the project had to be raised, and the church, known as Christ’s Chapel, was completed in 1883 and consecrated in 1890 by the Rt. Rev. R. A. Gibson.

The relationship with the chapel and the main church was always strong, with shared resources and the support of the clerical staff, especially Rev. Bowden, who also taught Sunday school at the chapel during the 1930s. Christ’s Church on Baldwin’s Ridge east of Warrenton, a mission church of St. James Episcopal Church, Warrenton, as it appeared about 1905. Completed in 1883, the chapel served until 1949. It was demolished in 1951. Photo courtesy of St. James’ Episcopal Church. Rev. Paul Bowden, Rector of St. James’ from 19201963, conducted services there on Sundays at 3 p.m., usually accompanied by organist William Street. Mrs. Day noted that the traveled road used to be on the right side facing the chapel, while the presentday Baldwin’s Ridge Road on the left was just a path that led to a farmhouse on the hill.

The aging of the congregation, along with the rationing of gasoline and supplies during World War II, resulted in reduced use of the mission chapel. Mrs. Day recalled that by the end of the war, “The Grays were just about the only ones there.” By 1946, the chapel was closed, and in 1949 was deconsecrated. Furnishings, including a small organ, were transferred to St. James, and in 1951 the building was demolished. All that remained was the cemetery. The post-war years brought unprecedented growth to Fauquier County, with the earliest rural residential developments starting east of Warrenton off Route 605, present-day Dumfries Road. These projects included Rock Springs and the Fleetwood subdivision on present-day Atlee Road. Coming later were Mill Run and Marstella, and soon the Christ’s Church cemetery was surrounded by houses.

Mrs. Mary Ann Gray Day (1925-2013) recalled in 2000 that the sanctuary had a beautiful stainedglass window and two small rooms on each side. The

By March,1904, St. James’ had a membership of 161, including 20 members of Christ’s Chapel. The first burial in the chapel cemetery was in 1882, when

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Other possibilities were explored. The church contacted the late Meade Palmer, a well-known landscape architect, about building a wall around the cemetery. In 1996 a detailed survey of the property was done. Boy Scout Troop 10, sponsored by St. James, periodically worked on the cemetery as a service project. In 2008, an Eagle Scout project was completed by Matt Dodd and his adult advisors, which included a careful cleaning of the grounds, new signage, border fencing and benches. Throughout the years, honoring those buried in the cemetery has been a priority. St. James historian Richard Gookin has done much research to identify and record those resting in the “revered ground” on Baldwin’s Ridge.

Members of the Gray and Mitchell families were members of Christ’s Chapel for generations. Seen in this 1905 photo are Sallie Gray, in the center with plumed hat; Victoria A. H. Gray Thornton, second row, second from left; and Dudley Fitzhugh Gray, standing behind Victoria. Photo courtesy of St. James’ Episcopal Church. Over the seven decades since the chapel ceased to exist, the cemetery was not forgotten. Still, it presented the St. James administration with continuing challenges. Over time, committees to oversee the cemetery were set up, and numerous options considered. Working with Randy Minter, president of Moser

Funeral Home in Warrenton, it was learned that since the cemetery was owned by the church and people already interred there, it was still a viable burial ground. However, there was no interest in anyone wishing to be buried there. Such a move would require expensive and continuing maintenance and there were security concerns, as well.

In March, 2012, a ground-penetrating radar survey of the cemetery was done by Dr. William F. Hanna and Claude E. Petrone, and coordinated by Dr. Kay R. McCarron. The survey revealed 207 echoes, 35 of which were considered gravesites. Further analysis of the cemetery, which had 14 previously known burials, led the team to speculate that there were at least eight more adults interred there, and possibly the small graves of children 10 or younger. Involved in the work of the church and its school and other important ministries, the administration of St. James currently does not have a plan for the cemetery. But they recognize the need to provide a level of maintenance. “Going forward, I think it will need to be a parish project,” said St. James’ Rector, The Rev. Ben Maas.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Piedmont’s Heritage Beckons New Executive Director

By Emma Boyce

he Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association has welcomed a new executive director with an unlikely background. Alex Nance joins the VPHA team alongside Travis Shaw, Ian Macdougall, and Rich Gillespie with the goal of expanding membership to the next generation. Nance grew up moving between Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax County, all close to Civil War battlefields and other historic sites. After earning a Bachelor’s in international politics from Georgetown and a Masters in public policy from the University of Virginia, Nance began his career as an officer in the U.S. Army. He continued with the military for almost a decade, eventually rising to the prestigious role of military analyst. “It’s a total career switch,” said Nance, who credits the VPHA board and his staff members for helping him along the way. “I couldn’t be happier so far. I have always been interested in history as a hobby so it seemed like the perfect fit.” History is one of the things that drew him to Middleburg over a year ago. Originally based in D.C., Nance recalled reading about his soon-to-be neighborhood on the VPHA website while stationed in Afghanistan, a stark contrast from the idyllic Blue Ridge Mountains. When he became a VPHA member, he had no idea the programs he so admired would soon be under his purview. “The VPHA has done an excellent and very unique job among other organizations in the area,” said Nance, who became executive director in January. “They present a comprehensive view of all the history of the region, not just focusing on one topic in particular, but giving a good overview of the past several hundred years of history in this area.” Some of VPHA’s more notable programming includes countywide scavenger hunts and driving/walking tours. On its website, detailed information is available on several self-guided tours, with each focusing on a pivotal moment in history. “We’re trying to get a lot more breadth in our programs,” Nance said. “We’ve offered some outstanding historical programming over the past five, ten, fifteen years, and we will continue to do so, but we also want to build on those existing programs to reach a new audience that might be interested in other aspects of the heritage area.” One way the organization has engaged a different crowd is through music. Recently, it held a Patsy Cline tribute concert, featuring VPHA board member Bess Putnam on vocals. Nance foresees many more exciting new programs to come. “[The concert] helped us reach a new, younger crowd. We want to offer more programs while keeping the things that our existing members love about our organization.” Nance hopes the organization gains more visibility with visitors to the Piedmont area. Whether they’re driving through or staying to enjoy the numerous wineries and breweries dotting the countryside, Nance “wants to have something that appeals to everyone.” So far, his enthusiasm for the Piedmont has proved boundless. Despite the unavoidable maintenance issues that accompany living in a nineteenth-century house, Nance has found life in Middleburg rewarding. “You can’t beat the history,” he said. “It’s an absolute dream imagining all that has happened outside our front door, in our backyard, up and down Route 50. It’s hundreds of years of history. We learn something new ever yday and that will never get old for me.”

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

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Berryville’s Homespun Is All About “Down on the Farm”

By Linda Roberts

mother and two boys were enjoying chocolate shakes at Homespun at 20 West Main Street in downtown Berryville on a recent chilly day. Behind the counter, Manny De La Rosa was generous with the spirals of whipped cream that topped off the shakes.

“How’s that?” he said, flashing a broad smile.

The newly opened Homespun is a farm-to-table spin off of Berryville’s Smith Meadows Farm. It’s been in the Pritchard family for more than 200 years, and is considered one of the country’s oldest 100 percent grass-finished livestock farms. Smith Meadows’ Forrest Pritchard and De La Rosa opened the deli, ice cream and farm store late last year and have been welcoming hungry guests every since. Paneled with barn boards and wood-topped tables, Homespun offers diners a “down on the farm” feel when they come in to try the Main Street Hot Dog, Double Dog Dare, Smith Meadows’ chili or bacon, organic coffee, craft beers or a seasonal Kombucha.

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“Transparency, wholesomeness, passion and community —that’s what people are investing in,” said De La Rosa, adding that there’s no substitute for experience and that sometimes it (experience) can’t be explained. The meat is sourced from Smith Meadows’ grass-fed beef, lamb, and pastured pork and the eggs from free-range hens quartered at the farm. If you’re interested in an ice cream sandwich or brownie sundae, the ice cream comes from a local creamery and the delectable desserts from the Sweet Elephant bakery across the street. The cuts of meat in orderly rows in the freezer cases are a direct result of Smith Meadows Farm’s sustainable farming practices. “Everything we do is with a passion, if you do that you can’t lose,” said De La Rosa. A longtime chef, De La Rosa had a hankering to join in the sustainable agriculture movement and was looking for a way to make that happen. Simultaneously he answered an ad that Pritchard published seeking someone for the Smith Meadows farm team that operates a booth at six farmers’ markets on Saturdays and Sundays in the Washington area.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

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Chef Manny De La Rosa shows Homespun’s locally sourced meats. Gesturing around the deli, De La Rosa said, “you know, it’s not like this just happened, we’ve invested a lot into it.” He spent a year at Smith Meadows, taking care of the animals, doing farm work and whatever came his way. “You name it, I did it.” Meanwhile De La Rosa and Pritchard were planning to create Homespun in a long-vacant storefront in downtown Berryville. Pritchard wants to expand the business and De La Rosa is right there with him. “We’re looking at Phase II,” he added, the better to bring farm-raised hamburgers to the table at Homespun. De La Rosa noted that the burgers won’t be just any meat because he can “take you to the farm where these were raised.” Another plan is to create outdoor seating in the alleyway between the deli and the Thai restaurant next door. Ask De La Rosa about his plans for mushrooms and the chef in him gets excited. Pritchard, he said, “wants to evolve the business” and growing Homespun’s own mushrooms to be used in preparation of menu items is another step.

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“Transparency, wholesomeness, passion and community —that’s what people are investing in,” said De La Rosa, adding that there’s no substitute for experience and that sometimes it (experience) can’t be explained. “You need to come here and see it for yourself,” he said. For additional information and to view the menu: www.homespunberryville.com. To learn more about Smith Meadows farm, visit: www.SmithMeadows.com.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

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HERE & THERE

Canine Companion

Lilla Matheson Ohsrtrom will be among the artists showing and selling at this year’s Art of the Piedmont on May 20 at Slater Run Vineyard on Crenshaw Road. Lilla is an art therapist and specializes in outstanding canine sculpture from her Youngblood Art Studio in The Plains. Details: www.artofthepiedmont.org

In Memory of Hurst Groves

Barbara Sharp, with the noted Austrian organist Lukas Hasler, 25, who performed at Trinity Church in Upperville in memory of Barbara’s late husband for the “Hurst K. Groves Memorial.” His appearance at Trinity included Camille Saint-Saēns-Fantasie in E flat major, Mozart’s Sonata in G major, KV 283:1 Allegro and Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in G minor, Opus 23, no. 5.

Amen

Virginia State Senator Jill Vogel (right) invited Rev. Jonathan Adams, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville, to give an opening invocation at the Capitol Building in Richmond.

Sam Huff

Here’s some scoop from Charles Town…. Middleburg resident Carol Holden, president of the West Virginia Breeders Classic races, has announced that the The Sam Huff West Virginia Breeders Classic will be the main event of the evening on Saturday, October 8 at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town. It's for 3-year-olds and up going a mile and an eighth, and has been won by some of the greatest West Virginia-breds of all-time, including Onion Juice, Coin Collector, Confucius Say, Russell Road, Lucy's Bob Boy, Runnin'toluvya, and most recently, Muad'dib. “Sam was the driving force behind the creation of the West Virginia Breeders Classics,” Carol said. “He loved his home state and wanted to do anything and all he could to help it receive positive recognition. ”The race will now be known as the Sam Huff West Virginia Breeders Classic in honor of the late NFL Hall of Fame linebacker. The purse for the Classic has yet to be announced.

Winner, Winner Congratulations to these amazingly talented young musicians who performed in February’s Piedmont Symphony Orchestra (PSO) Young Artists competition. Conductor Glenn Quader (left), with Noelle Fiegl (first place), Christian Henriksen (second), and Sarah Kim (third). All students will receive scholarship awards to continue their musical training and education, with a generous matching grant from the Phillip A Hughes Foundation. Next up for the PSO, now in its 25th silver anniversary season, is the Three’s A Charm concert on April 24 at Highland School at 3 p.m. It will feature three of the PSO’s popular piano soloists—Rachel Franklin, Carlos César Rodriguez and Thomas Pandolfi.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Let

t e n e u l r o W V e ’s

2 2 y 1 – 7, 2 0

Save the Date! Our annual Let’s Volunteer Week is coming up May 1-7. Join us for a community-wide volunteering event with local nonprofits; there’s an opportunity for everyone! Want to get involved? Visit www.letsvolunteer.org for more information. Presented by the PATH Foundation and PATH Volunteer Hub.

www.pathforyou.org @pathforyou

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Booked UP

By Vicky Moon

or the many tree huggers in the area, award-winning environmental journalist Fred Pearce’s latest book, A Trillion Trees: Restoring Our Forests by Trusting in Nature, due out in April, offers a provocative argument for why we need to stop planting trees—and let nature build itself back better.

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In A Trillion Trees, Pearce takes readers on a journey through some of the most spectacular forests on the planet. Along the way, he charts the rapid pace of forest destruction, but also explores why some forests are beginning to recover. At the heart of Pearce’s investigation is a provocative argument: Planting more trees isn’t the answer to declining forests. If given room and left to their own devices, forests and the people who live in and around them will fight back to restore their own domain. Pearce begins in the remote cloud forests of Ecuador, before taking readers to the remains of a forest civilization in Nigeria, then a mystifying mountain peak in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. He examines the boreal forests of western Canada and the United States, where he explores the link between the recent rise in devastating wildfires and the historical suppression of both natural fire cycles and the maintenance practices of Indigenous communities. Throughout the book, Pearce interviews the people who traditionally live in forests. He speaks to Indigenous people in western Canada and the United States who are fighting for sovereignty over their traditional lands to manage them according to their traditional practices. He visits and speaks with Nepalese hill dwellers, Kenyan farmers, and West African sawyers (selective, environmentally friendly loggers) who show him that forests are as much human landscapes as they are natural paradises. The lives of humans are now imprinted in forest ecology.

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022 MARY WILSON, P.T., O.C.S.*

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Susan Orlean has been a staff writer at The New Yorker since 1992. She is the New York Times bestselling author of seven books, including The Library Book, Rin Tin Tin, Saturday Night, and The Orchid Thief, which was made into the Academy Award–winning film Adaptation. If you haven’t yet read her latest book, On Animals, then either run to Second Chapter Books in Middleburg, call them or click on to order it. There are chapters on rabbits, chickens, lions and donkeys. Fabulous is not close to enough for this masterpiece.

Jack Russell Writes a Book Called Fox World

he first thing anyone in horse country should know is that this book, Fox World, was written by a man named JACK RUSSELL. No joke.

I hope that everyone who cares about the future of Planet Earth will fight to save places like Fox World's forest and its inhabitants.”

Fox World is based on true events and takes the reader under the canopy of an urban forest on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. for a yearlong walk with a weary sales executive and his muse, a wild red fox. Aged, ill and injured, both fox and man seek healing in their journey, not only for themselves, but for the ecologically stressed forest that is under siege.

–Dr. Jane Goodall Jack Russell wrote Fox World during his recovery from sudden cardiac arrest. After several heart surgeries to save his life, he sought a calm refuge and found it in a nearby forest where he reunited with an aging red fox that he helped as a pup. Jack drafted Autographed copies of Jack the 85,000-word book on his smartphone as he and Russell’s book Fox World are available at Horse Country the wild red fox walked daily.

They’re joined on their 500-mile walkabout by the fox’s forest friends – owl, buck deer, hawk, blue heron, and raccoon, and each animal’s story illustrates why this small forest is so soothing and majestic in its allure. Starting in brutally cold winter, followed by the hottest, wettest summer on record, fox and man face daunting life challenges on their walks, from a heart arrythmia which ends the executive’s career to a coyote attack and serious illnesses faced by the elderly fox. And through these debilitating and traumatic events, the two unite and bond for survival, and the fox’s wild perspective teaches his human friend unforgettable lessons about healing, coping, serenity, wonderment, mindfulness, and the simplest things (e.g., the sun setting atop the great oaks, an owl serenade under moon beams, a shared cup of bison bone broth on an icy day). Drawn in by the fox’s courage and the plight of his forest as destruction looms, the man decides to take a stand and help the fox and his animal friends. Richly graced with gorgeous nature photos and infused with insights that can only be imparted by those who have come to genuinely appreciate life, Fox World is an exhilarating walk in the woods you’ll never forget.

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Previously, Jack traveled North America and Europe for three decades to assist Fortune 1000 companies with building distribution channels, developing new products, and launching start-ups. His efforts were instrumental in building a pet health insurance company in America and he underwrote over 150 affinity marketing programs in his career. Jack studied economics at Virginia Commonwealth University and years later, attended executive programs at The Wharton School and Georgetown. He lives in Lake Frederick, Virginia with his wife, Susan, and their Jack Russell terriers. Along with fighting for Mr. Fox’s forest to be declared a nature preserve, Jack and Susan enjoy giving freedom rides to shelter dogs and assisting with their shelter medical bills. He’s a beginner at photography, an ever-learning birdwatcher, a football fan when the Green Bay Packers are on TV and an enthusiastic golfer of diminishing skills.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Plenty of Poker Faces in Aldie T

By Leonard Shapiro

here were many memorable lyrics in the iconic Broadway musical Guys and Dolls, including a paean to the “Oldest Established Permanent Floating Crap Game in New York.” Locally, just make it the Oldest Established Permanent Floating Poker Game in Aldie.

It’s the 30th anniversary of a monthly neighborhood game called “The Retired Gentleman’s Afternoon Poker Game,” or RGAP. The first group was called RGAP1, and it’s now up to RGAP3.

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Tucker Withers, owner of the Little River Inn and the unofficial mayor of Aldie, has been all-in from the start. The Gentleman portion is no longer applicable. His wife, Mary Ann, is now a regular, and for good measure, their son, 35-year-old Calder, also plays. The game had its origins at the annual Christmas Shop at Middleburg’s Emmanuel Episcopal Church. A congregant, the late Andy Bergner, recruited some friends to serve as bartenders. Then he asked if any of them played poker. Tucker already sat in on several games, but joined immediately, as did his late father-in-law, retired Admiral George Shick. The late Rev. Neale Morgan, Emmanuel’s rector, also was an enthusiastic participant. Tucker is the only survivor from that first bunch, the rest surely playing and, of course, never losing at heavenly RGAP sessions on high. “The first time we played, Andy laid out some cold cuts, chips, pickles, beer and soda,” Tucker said. “After three hours, he looked at me and George and said, ‘Do you two guys already know each other?’ He didn’t know George was my father-in-law.” Tucker comes by poker naturally. His late mother, Virginia, loved to play. “She has a full house on her tombstone,” he said. “Three queens and a pair of sevens.”

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Photo by June Thompson

The Retired Gentlemen’s Afternoon Poker Game began thirty years ago with Middleburg’s town crier, Bergner. Today’s Join UsAndy April 24th at 5PMgame has a more diverse group of poker players: (from left to right) Dale Thompson, Mary Ann Withers, Calder In The Plains Withers, Bruce Cameron, Bill Withers, Tom Santmyer, Tucker Withers. For The Season Finale Another player put Church in his will that hisSeries son would inherit his seat. of actually The Grace Concert “But he never played,” Tucker added. “Too intimidated.”

The AMIT PELED Peabody Cello Gang

Over the years, names and faces have obviously changed, and so have some of the games, not to mention the food. There is only one lunch staple. “It’s always served with beer,” Tucker said.

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The AMIT PELED Peabody Cello Gang

The stakes are usually nickel, dime, quarter, though the dealer can call the ante to start the pot for a few dollars more. On a good afternoon, a player can take home $30 or $40, though winners and losers all seem to even out over the year. “It’s not totally equal in terms of skill level,” Mary Ann Withers said. “But when you’re with the same people, after a while you can tell the more conservative players. When they think they don’t have a very good hand, they’ll get right out.” Most games are best five-card hand. They play Omaha, Aldie 2-2-1, Widow’s Walk, Guts and Riggo, among others. The latter is named for Hall of Fame Washington running back John Riggins, who wore No. 44 on his jersey. Each player is dealt four cards down, with four cards face up. Ergo 44. There are lots of laughs during the four-hour sessions At one point, a county sheriff, a Boy Scout leader and the late Jeep Craun, then Middleburg’s only full-time cop, played in the same game. “We were at my house, and I had a pet goat in the room,” Tucker said. “There were some dollar bills on the table in front of Jeep, and the goat jumped up and grabbed a bunch and started eating them. Jeep actually pulled the money out of his mouth.” tickets http://artsintheplains.org/ The goodFor news: theplease goat visit: abstained from the beer. Please bring a face mask & proof of vaccination

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

that run 300 years deep.

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Finding His Voice Bass-baritone Davóne Tines Breaking Boundaries By Anita L. Sherman

lways a crowd pleaser when he appeared in high school performances, 2005 Fauquier County High School graduate Davóne Tines has gone on to reach meteoric heights in the operatic music world. From singing in local churches in Orlean, Tines has graced national and international stages sharing with audiences his own unique brand of performance. Performances that not only showcase his resonant, beautiful and soulful voice but performances that go beyond, bringing in elements of theatre and engaging audiences in new ways. Tines names it OpenProcess, it’s an audiovisual experience using an app. On Mar. 29, Lincoln Center’s David Rubenstein Atrium hosted an immersive musical performance by Davóne Tines utilizing this app and centering on the song, ‘Vigil,” composed by Tines and Dutch/ English composer Igee Dieudonné. It was dedicated in memory of Breonna Taylor. The audience wore headphones, and was able to move around the space, listening to and experiencing insights via six “nodes” or entry points into the music. The content was explored. Homage was paid to victims of police brutality and Tines described his creative process. Listening and watching Tines perform is a moving experience. His voice comes from a deep place of connection to whatever genre of music he may be performing whether it be a spiritual, jazz or opera. The Los Angeles Times has heralded Tines “a singer of immense power and fervor.” The New York Times describes Tines as a “charismatic, full-voiced bass-baritone.”

Fauquier native and operatic superstar Davóne Tines. Photo by Noah Elliott Morrison/ Detroit Opera

Tines has garnered national and international attention. He’s a revolutionary artist, his musical palate is full of the colors of many repertoires often in which he explores political and social issues. His story is personal. A young Black man growing up in a rural Virginia world. A young man mentored by grandparents who loved music. A young singer classically trained, Tines is able to blend opera with art song, songs of protest with spirituals and gospel, all

to tell a story, his story of perseverance. And his story is one that resonates for many. Tines is able to share it in significant ways. Born in 1986, from an early age Tines took a liking to classical and gospel music. He started playing the violin at 7 but singing was his heart. He continued studying the violin at Harvard University and served as the president of Harvard’s student orchestra. He also studied set design no doubt giving him a flare for unique productions. Tines worked for several years as an arts administrator in Washington after graduation before switching to voice at the Juilliard School in New York where he earned a master’s degree in 2013. Tines is a co-founder of the American Modern Opera Company. Here he works with a group of dancers, singers, musicians, writers, directors, composers, choreographers and producers all with a shared vision to connect artists and audiences in new ways. Commissioned and premiered by The American Repertory Theater, Tines brought the verses of Langston Hughes’ poem, The Black Clown, to life in 2019 with a moving performance that blended vaudeville, opera, jazz and spirituals. Partnering with other artists can produce powerful results. In 2021, Tines paired with pianist Lara Downes on Remember Me to Harlem. In that same year, he was named artist-in-residence at the Michigan Opera Theatre in Detroit. If you happen to be in California on April 14, you can see and hear Davóne Tines in person when he performs at UCLA’s Center for the Art of Performance. He will be joined by another musical powerhouse, violinist Jennifer Koh. A musical collaboration, Everything Rises, tells the untold story of solidarity between Asian Americans and the Black Community. Tines took home the 2020 Sphinx Medal of Excellence, recognizing extraordinary classical musicians of color. In 2018, Tines was the recipient of the Emerging Artists Award from Lincoln Center. Tines had a special Christmas gift in December 2021, with a celebration to honor his latest achievement. He was named the 2022 Vocalist of the Year at the 61st annual Musical America Awards.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Modern Mercantile: Mesmerizing Mix of Marvelous Merchandise

By Linda Roberts

lizabeth Mock is at the forefront of Berryville’s woman-owned and operated businesses in the heart of downtown, fronting on Main Street. Her Modern Mercantile opened eight years ago and shares the honors with the proprietors of The Tea Cart, Brazen Sheep fiber arts, the Berryville Grill and Sweet Elephant, among others. Mock grew up in Boyce and worked elsewhere in retail and finance before returning to her roots. She got the idea for a shop from “my own love of design and a personal search for unique gift items and items for my home.” Mock said she felt “Berryville could use something like this,” and took the plunge to open a true mercantile shop. Located in what was once the town’s fire station, later the town office and then Berryville Main Street’s gift shop, the Modern Mercantile offers an amazing array of merchandise, much of it locally sourced, in a small space. The store, which initially opened in 2014 on South Church Street, just around the corner from Main Street, gained in prominence and parking once it relocated to the present location a little over two years ago. However, Mock began sourcing her items a good two years prior to opening her first storefront. “I had a general idea of the style and look that I wanted to stock,” she said, adding that she is always on the hunt for new things and always thinking ahead to the holidays and what she wants to carry. For much of Mock’s merchandise she didn’t have to look too far from home to fill her shelves in her 600-square-foot space. Delicate and attractive jewelry beckons as you enter, made by Christy Dunkle, known to many of Mock’s customers as the longtime assistant town planner. Delightfully providing a sweet aroma to the one-room shop are Paula Wilson’s Virginia Bluebell Candles, while Diane Harrison’s Touched by Nature soaps provide their own alluring scent. Lisa Harrison’s Sojourn Well jewelry and Carol Coffelt’s Precious Metalz wares give the shopper reason to pause and consider a purchase. Mock occasionally buys off Etsy and other wholesale sites and focuses on

Photo by Linda Roberts

Elizabeth Mock (standing), proprietor of the Modern Mercantile, and “shop dog” Moxie visit with shopper Lisa Kohrt of Front Royal. smaller companies offering unique items. She also finds that her large assortment of greeting cards, air plants, woven goods, crafts and puzzles, home and garden décor, and children’s items bring shoppers in the door. Managing her time, Mock works in the store five days a week and is backed up on weekends by Patricia Castelhano and Eli Kerns. As Berryville grows, “I find that I have to carry a little of everything,” she said. She’s already planning for the future, making sure her attractive space stays filled with items customers either want to purchase as gifts, or for themselves. The Modern Mercantile is open seven days a week from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Details: www.modernmercantilellc.shopsettings.com.

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Carry Me BACK

Coming Out, Then Going Off the Rails

The spring market is heating up, choose an agent who is well connected with a wealth of experience

By Jimmy Hatcher

called Mimi Abel-Smith recently to find out the date of her long ago coming out party at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City. She told me it was June 29, 1954, and I still have great memories almost 70 years later. I first met Mimi at the Loudoun Junior Horse Show at Glenwood Park in 1951 (feel free to ask me who was champion), but had not seen her since with the brief exception of Cathy Mellon’s party earlier that June. Mimi‘s celebration was Mary Chichester Mills (right) wore an offscheduled just before the white organdie gown with white sequins for annual July 4 horse show her debutante party in New York in 1954. in Culpeper. I had planned From far left, her friend Nancy Gerry (now to ride in that event, so I Bedford) her mother Alice duPont Mills and had already sent my regrets D.B. Parish. Other friends included Nina for Mimi’s party. But her Winthrop (now Bonnie), Catherine Mellon and Nina Auchincloss all to the toe tapping music roommate at Mount Vernon of the Lester Lanin orchestra. College in Washington, Mary Ann Saunders, called and convinced me to make trip to New York. We were both from Richmond and she told me she was planning to drive north for the party, then stay a few more days. She kindly offered to give me a ride up, then take me to the train so I could make a quick trip back and not miss too much saddle time in Culpeper. I don’t recall much about the drive north, but I do recall the party as if it was yesterday. Mimi was beautiful, as was the bathed in pink St. Regis ballroom. Going up on the hotel elevator, I was standing near a gentleman who looked very familiar. I later learned he was Mimi‘s father, James P. Mills, an internationally known polo player. I asked him if it was possible I’d seen him at a horse show in Virginia. He responded as any self-respecting polo star had the right to answer, “I hope the hell not!” In any case, the party was truly glorious and true to Mary Anne’s word, she got me to the train station in plenty of time. All went well until we reached Union Station in Washington. I happened to ask the porter what time the train would be getting into Richmond. He replied with a smile. “Boss I’ve been on this train for 20 years and it hasn’t been to Richmond yet.” Horrified, I asked him where it was going. To my chagrin he replied, “Charlottesville.” “So what do I have to do to get to Richmond?” I asked. With great humor, he answered “the train from New York to Richmond is just ahead of us and I’ll see if I can get you on. What’s your name?” “Hatcher,” I answered. “Jimmy Hatcher.” He said he’d see what he could do so, so I grabbed my hanging bag and small suitcase and got off that train to Charlottesville as quickly as I could. Seconds later, I ran smack into a very tall conductor who immediately asked me, “is your name Hatcher?” “Yes sir,” I replied. “Well hurry up, we’re holding the train to Richmond for you.” So railroad people everywhere, I certainly hope you’re still holding trains for slightly confused college boys. Richmond, there I went.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Wakefield Celebrates New Performing Arts Center

returned to the stage to thank all the hardworking people who actually built the new venue. Construction took about two years and was completed despite the global pandemic.

By Sophia Carey peaceful silence fell over the crowd as they moved their gaze from their delicious meals to the newly designed stage before them.

During the second act, several talented parents performed songs from musicals they had participated in. They included Toby Reidway reprising her role as Mrs. Potts from “Beauty and the Beast,” and Dave Redabaugh performing once again as the Cowardly Lion from “The Wizard of Oz.”

The opening night gala to celebrate the recently completed Performing Arts Center at Wakefield School, otherwise known as the George L. Ohrstrom Jr. Theater and Auditorium, had officially begun. As the performers, as well as talented accompanist Hexin Qiao, anxiously awaited their cues, the audience took their seats at one of the many elegantly decorated tables for a scrumptious dinner. They soon shifted their focus from food to Ashley Harper, Wakefield’s Head of School, and Piers Carey, Vice President of the Board of Trustees and one of the leaders in the development of the theater, as they dedicated the GLO to the Ohrstrom family. The performers swiftly moved onto the stage as they accompanied David Grimes, Wakefield music teacher and director of fine and performing arts, in a revised, Gala-inspired version of “Be Our Guest” from the musical “Beauty and the Beast.” As the first act continued, the audience was treated to a performance that included many Wakefield alumni, who graciously returned to the school to reprise their roles and sing the numbers they performed in musicals

Courtesy Photo

Ashley Harper, Wakefield’s Head of School, and Piers Carey, vice president of the Board of Trustees, at the recent gala celebrating the school’s new performing arts center. from years past. Each performer, clearly thrilled to be on this new stage in this fabulous facility for the first time surrounded by an appreciative community, earned frequent thunderous applause. There were smiles all around as members of the audience recognized the songs and performers and eagerly anticipated each new musical number. During the intermission,

Harper and Carey

This year’s upcoming Wakefield student musical, “Grease,” is highly anticipated, and the cast offered a sneak peek. Audience members sang along to the well-known “We Go Together” as the cast hand-jived their way through the song in their poodle skirts and leather jackets. The final number was “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” a popular selection from Monty Python’s “Spamalot.” By the end of the song, the entire gala cast had taken the stage and was singing and whistling along while inviting the audience to participate. The gala ended with the entire room, performers and attendees, first joining in song, followed by performers on stage emotionally embracing after the first of what promises to be many more performances in their gorgeous new theater. Sophia Carey is a Wakefield senior.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

The “Olde Pro” is a Millwood Classic H By Leonard Shapiro

is business card reads “Golf Lessons with the Olde Pro,” because Eddie Cassidy says he’s an “old school” kind of guy, an experienced teacher many of his students believe is exactly what they’re seeking when searching for an instructor who can help improve their games.

“Everyone is an individual,” Cassidy said. “And anyone can hit a golf club. I’ll give them a club and tell them to go hit it, and then I tell them ‘I’m going to teach you how to swing this club. And if you swing it properly, it’s amazing, but more times than not, the club actually gets in the way of the ball.’”

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

Eddie Cassidy

Cassidy’s words of wisdom are mostly heard these days at Millwood Country Club, a 9-hole gem that’s been around since 1924 and located about 15 miles east

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

“He doesn’t try to change your grip, your swing, your stance, unless it’s really horrible. He doesn’t try to make you over, as some people do. And the main thing is that he’s just low key. No tension around him. And he is very well-liked at the club.” of Winchester. There’s no practice range or formal teaching area, just two tees set up in front of a net about five yards away. So Cassidy, 73, usually takes his students to a spot not far from the first fairway and has them hit their shots over toward two other adjacent fairways. He can do that at Millwood, where he was hired in 2015. His clients range from teens to 90-yearolds, boys and girls, men and women. Or, as he once told his players on the golf team he once coached at a Winchester high school, “golf is a sport for ladies and gentlemen.” His students are totally enamored with his approach. “His style is to take what you have and adapt it to what you want,” said Andrew Stifler, a past president at Millwood who has taken a number of lessons from Cassidy. “He doesn’t try to change your grip, your swing, your stance, unless it’s really horrible. He doesn’t try to make you over, as some people do. And the main thing is that he’s just low key. No tension around him. And he is very wellliked at the club.” Cassidy’s boyhood included caddying at Brockton GC, a private club that had several distinguished

members. One was Herbert Warren Wind, considered the pre-eminent golf writer of his and most other eras. It was Wind, writing in the New Yorker magazine, who once described holes 11, 12 and 13 at Augusta National as “Amen Corner.” “Monday was caddy day at the course, and I’d play all day,” he recalled. “Then I started sneaking on the course and my dad said to the general manager, how about we get him a junior membership? It was $75 a year. I would play 18 holes in the morning, 18 in the afternoon and nine at night, 45 holes a day in the summer.” At age 17, Cassidy won the Brockton city amateur title, still the youngest winner of the event. He played on his high school golf team and competed in junior events at the local and state level. He was recruited to play golf at the University of Oklahoma, but described his one year in Norman as “total culture shock,” including having to learn to hit low, wind-cheating shots he rarely faced back home in Massachusetts. Unhappy as a Sooner, he returned to Brockton and worked for the state of Massachusetts on a surveying crew until he came home one day and his father

announced, “Uncle Sam wants to see you.” That was a draft notice and he decided to sign up for three years. He spent 1968 and ’69 in Vietnam deployed with the Army’s First Infantry. Once discharged, he came back home and enrolled at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, where he studied turf management. One summer, he had an internship at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland and met the late Bill Strausbaugh, the legendary head professional there for 31 years until his death in 1999. Strausbaugh helped Cassidy get his first teaching job, as an assistant pro at Carper’s Valley, a now-closed public course in Winchester. Cassidy said he worked 80 hours a week and earned $80 a week back then. He also started drinking heavily, and in 1975 entered a 12-step recovery program that eventually got him sober and back into helping golfers hit the dimpled ball. “I just always had an eye for teaching,” said the Olde Pro, and still sober after all these years. A version of this story appeared in Virginia Golfer magazine.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

At Home or Abroad, Painting Is Her Passion THREE’S A CHARM Featuring: Thomas Pandolfi | Rachel Franklin Carlos César Rodriguez

SUNDAY, April 24, 2022 - 3:00 PM Imagine not one, not two, but THREE of your favorite PSO soloists together for an unprecedented single concert. Pianists Thomas Pandolfi, Rachel Franklin and Carlos César Rodriguez join the PSO for this one of a kind event for our 25th Anniversary Season!

Photo by Joe Motheral

Artist Leanne Fink and a few of her varied works

Thomas Pandolfi

Rachel Franklin

Carlos César Rodriguez

PSO SEASON FINALE PERFORMANCE: HAPPY BIRTHDAY PSO! 25th Anniversary Celebration Concert SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2022 - 3:00 PM FOR TICKETS, INFORMATION & COVID POLICIES:

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Luminescence Foundation & The Ben-Dov Family

The Margaret Spilman Bowden Foundation Nicolaas and Patricia Kortlandt Fund The Wise Foundation The Phillip A. Hughes Foundation

The Crossﬁelds Group

By Joe Motheral

ou don’t have to travel to Jordan to enjoy the paintings of Hamiltonbased artist Leanne Fink. She will be one of the artists exhibiting and selling at The Art of the Piedmont auction to benefit Middleburg Montessori School on May 20 at Slater Run Vineyards. Her Cradle of Life series includes three paintings on display at the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan. One is a view of modern Amman from atop the ancient Acropolis. Another depicts the Temple of Artemis at the ancient Roman city of Jerash, north of Amman. The third shows the famous Treasury at the prehistoric settlement of Petra. “Taking in all the sights and sounds opened my eyes to the exotic beauty of Jordan,” she said. “Its rugged and sun-bleached landscapes are rich in antiquities and warm in hospitality. It struck a chord. I embraced the experience and I felt compelled to express that which is ancient and eternal.” She shares her Hamilton studio with her husband, Richard, a cartoonist and playwright. While her interests range far and wide, she also feels a connection to Virginia’s “pastoral surroundings” all around her. Several paintings in her collection, A World of Color, reveal this attachment. “Home Land” is a wintry scene dominated by a sunset over farmland with trees and open pasture sheltered by clouds. Her subtle application of color can give way to vivid depictions such as “Call of the Canyon” or “Transition,” filled with autumn leaves. Leanne began her voyage into art at an early age. “Before kindergarten,” she said. “My uncle was a landscape painter who used to show in the local art league. He would take me to the backyard and start me on oil painting.” She loved drawing portraits in pen and ink, with graphite and colored pencils. “I used to go through the TV Guide,” she added, “and draw portraits, portraits, portraits.”

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Influenced by her uncle’s teaching, she evolved into landscapes because “I found them more challenging than portraits.” After careers as a chiropractor and advertising art director she decided to go back full time into fine art. “I was always intrigued by landscapes and how they made me feel,” she said. “It can touch my heart when I’m looking at a particular cloud shape, the angle of the sun, the light, the color. I like always moving forward with my painting, trying new concepts and techniques. But sometimes it’s nice to revisit successful methods from the past. I often meld the old and the new. Leanne described her career as an artist in three ways: “I love painting scenes from abroad, from photos that will spark a memory and feeling that speaks to me,” she said. “Second, I work from the pastoral surroundings in Loudoun, many settings from my own backyard. Third, I take imagery from my dreams.” Those dreamy images are still on her mind when she wakes up. “I do kind of a memory game—remembering the composition and the colors,” she said. “Then if it sticks in my head for three or four days I know it’s worthy of being put on canvas.” Leanne also is involved in other artistic pursuits. She has served as president of the Loudoun Sketch Club, the oldest plein air painting organization in Loudoun County. “I tend to paint faster in the field,” she said. “But most of my work is from photographic reference and memory.” With her painting passion, there’s no telling where the future may lead, mainly because she’s always curious to explore uncharted territory. Jordan included. Details: www.artofthepiedmont.org

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Joe May: It’s About Patents and Politics A

Photo by Joe Motheral

Joe May and his wife, Bobby

By Joe Motheral

t 84, Joe May’s career is replete with achievements and honors of epic proportions. According to the Academy of Engineering Excellence, Joe always had a knack for electrical engineering and science. During his three years in the army he spent a year in electronics school, then later enrolled at Virginia Tech and earned a degree in electrical engineering in 1962.

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Asked to name what he thought was the crowning achievement of his life, he said, “Surviving and contributing for 46 years.” In 1977 he founded a Leesburg based electronics company named EIT and still is very much involved as president of the company. He said he’d like to stay on for another five years before even thinking about retirement. In addition to developing 28 patents, he also served 20 years in the Virginia House of Delegates. Oh yes, he still flies his own helicopter. Several hundred admirers attended his 80th birthday party at Belmont Country Club—family, friends and many past colleagues. They were treated to a power-point presentation of his life, and several times he made reference to “the guys I worked with” rather than the “guys that worked for me.” It was typical of his humble demeanor. EIT now has 200 employees and its latest project was very much Covid-related. “We’re adapting ultraviolet radiation sanitizer to disinfect for things like hospital rooms, clinics, just about anything to kill Covid,” he said. One of his most visible patents has added immeasurably to the enjoyment of football on television. That would be the electronic first down line. It came about when Candlestick Park in San

Francisco wanted to replace local advertising on a television screen. Princeton Video Imaging retained EIT, which developed the technology. “They asked if we had some way of marking the first down line,” he said. “We did the design work, we tested it and repaired it for quite a few years.” May’s motive for running for public office was related to his concern about computer laws. “Getting computer laws on some sort of reasonable track,” he said. “Computer privacy was just a morass. They were able to steal anything about you they wanted to.” His efforts contributed to what became the Computer Trespass laws. Joe and his wife, Bobby, have been married for over 50 years. He claims she’s the true politician in the house. “I married my girlfriend’s roommate,” he said. “She’s a natural politician. I don’t claim to be any of the above. She’s courteous to people, she’s a good listener.” Prior to founding EIT, he spent several years as a self-employed consultant. One client was the DuPont company and he designed two instruments for them. “They encouraged me to start EIT,” he said, “and

offered to help.” Some of his latest accomplishments include developing an instrument to determine the distance from a helicopter in flight to the ground. “We based it on a Mercedes radar device that measures the distance to the car in front,” he said. One of his more interesting assignments came when International Paper became an EIT client. He said they asked, “can you tell us how to determine how much ink is on a bread wrap?” Joe wondered who would care. “It turns out that the people who make the wrappers care because of the cost of the ink,” he said of an extremely profitable project. “They needed that information so they could bid on a printing job.” Joe has earned a number of prestigious awards and most recently was inducted into the Virginia Tech Academy of Engineering Excellence. In 2000, he was honored with the Governor’s Award for Technology. Asked to name what he thought was the crowning achievement of his life, he said, “Surviving and contributing for 46 years.”

Have you heard about Virginia’s Tax Credit Program for conservation easement donations? If you are a landowner, the Virginia Land Preservation Tax Credit program will provide state tax credits for putting your property into a conservation easement that can be used against your state income tax liability or sold by a tax broker for cash. Here’s an example: Imagine the fair market value (FMV) of your property is $1,000,000 and you wish to restrict some or all of its future development with a conservation easement that lowers your property's FMV value to $600,000. In this example, the value of the donation of the conservation easement is the difference or $400,000. Virginia will give you 40% of that amount, or $160,000, in tax credits that can be used over 10-years applied to your state tax bill or sold. The federal government will allow the remaining 60% value as a charitable contribution against your federal income taxes over 15-years. It all starts with an appraisal by a qualified appraiser. In the end, you still own and can sell your land. But your special piece of property has now been conserved, and you can enjoy the financial benefits for your conservation efforts.

Learn more at landtrustva.org or (540) 687-8441. Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Land Trust of Virginia Awarded New Grant

he Middleburg-based Land Trust of Virginia (LTV) has been awarded a one-year grant funded by the Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF) and administered by Virginia’s United Land Trust (VaULT). LTV will receive $18,000 for their project titled Building the Capacity of the Land Trust of Virginia’s Easement Program. This grant program was created in recognition of the critical importance of accelerating land conservation throughout the Commonwealth and to highlight the power of partnership between state agencies and nonprofit land trusts.

and VaULT member, currently holds more easements than any other nonprofit land trust in Virginia.

Historically state agencies have taken the majority of conservation easements, but over the last decade, Virginia’s nonprofit land trust community and specifically VaULT members have significantly increased the number of properties they are conserving each year.

“It is long overdue that we increase our staff dedicated to easement intake, which prompted us to apply for this funding,” said LTV Executive Director Sally Price. “Over the past five years, we have expanded our organization’s stewardship, development and education programs resulting in far more interest in our easement work. With this grant, we plan to work with a consultant and hire an additional director of conservation to double our easement program in the next two years.”

The percentage of the total number of easements completed by nonprofit land trusts has increased from 17% in 2015 to 49% in 2020. Of that 49%, VaULT members competed 47%. LTV, an accredited land trust

Last year, LTV completed 16 easements for a total of 3,040 acres, compared to 1,765 acres in 2020. These new easements expanded LTV’s footprint into six new counties, resulting in LTV easements in 24

counties across Virginia. The interest from the public in LTV programs, and the total recorded easements in 2021, is far more than in previous years. LTV is a nonprofit organization that partners with private landowners who voluntarily protect and preserve properties with significant historic, scenic, or ecological value. The organization has worked with 219 families, conserving a total of 26,109 acres in 24 counties in Virginia. While LTV charges landowners for its services, those fees only cover about 28% of LTV’s actual costs. Fundraising is essential to its mission. For more information about LTV’s work, visit http:// www.landtrustva.org.

UPPERVILLE HORSE SHOW On Tuesday, June 7 at 6 p.m. Buchanan Hall will present a celebration of the Upperville Horse Show and the distinguished filmmaking career of Tom Davenport of Delaplane.

Highlights will include a screening of Davenport’s 16 mm film. The Upperville Colt & Horse Show is the oldest and one of the most prestigious horse shows in America. Established in 1853 by Colonel Richard Henry Dulany, who also founded the Piedmont Fox Hounds, the show was originally designed to encourage better treatment of young horses and improve the local breeding stock. This film was shot in 1969 when the show was a rural event and much smaller than the modern show. Davenport will talk about the project and his other films. Additional speakers will offer insight into the history of this fabulous event.

Contact: 540-592-3455 | Buchananhall@gmail.com Sponsored by G. Fletcher Slater at Homebridge Financial Services - Middleburg, Country ZEST magazine and Betsee Parker of Huntland in Middleburg, admission $10 will include a glass of wine and nibbles.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

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COLONIAL DOWNS

By Frank Vespe

he news that Churchill Downs, Inc. had reached an agreement to purchase Colonial Downs and its associated properties sent shockwaves through the Mid-Atlantic racing world. It also had some racing folks on social media wondering if that meant the end might be near for the New Kent, Virginia track. The good news is that one of the people taking a far more sunny view of the purchase is also a woman who’ll be closest to the situation: Virginia Thoroughbred Association (VTA) executive director Debbie Easter. “I don’t think we have to worry about [closure],” Easter said in an interview. “My guess is our goals and Churchill’s goals are going to be aligned.”

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In fact, she said, she thought it was “quite possible” there could be synergies between Churchill and Colonial. For example, in 2021, a number of Churchill Downs horsemen took their stock to Colonial, bolstering the local meet. With Churchill now owning both facilities, there might be ways to grow that relationship.

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What’s more, Colonial is coming off a season in which it set handle records, and Easter said the track has big plans for ’22.

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There’s no question what was most enticing to Churchill Downs, Inc. was not racing at Colonial Downs per se but the right to own and operate facilities with historical horse racing machines.

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Virginia, Churchill Downs Goals “Going To Be Aligned”

Another big factor encouraging the alignment of the horsemen’s goals and the track operator’s goals is this: the structure of Virginia’s gambling law.

How much so? Approximately $47 million was wagered on racing at Colonial Downs in 2021. Meanwhile, historical horse racing machines – basically slot

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

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“I’m looking forward to a really good ‘22 meet at Colonial Downs. In the short term, it’s all looking great.” Debbie Easter, executive director of the Virginia Thoroughbred Association. machines using the results of historical horse races – accounted for more than $3.2 billion in handle last year in Virginia. Currently there are about 2,700 machines that have been deployed in Virginia. State law permits that number to grow to 5,000, and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment, Colonial’s outgoing owner, has been steadily growing that number.

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What makes Virginia’s law ingenious is that it ties the growth in HHR machines directly to the growth in race days. For every 100 HHR machines Colonial wants to add, it has to add a race day. “I think their goal would be to expand HHR as quickly as possible, and if they do, race days have to expand,” Easter said. “The reason HHR is allowed in Virginia is to help us have race days and grow our industry.” The law also gives the Commission the authority to require even more racing days than that. Whether they would have to, or would, use that authority is immaterial. The larger point is clear: HHR growth and growth in race days are tied at the hip. Growth in one begets growth in the other. Easter said she has not yet had a chance to sit down with Churchill’s leadership. But while some may fret that the fate that befell some shuttered Churchill properties, such as Arlington Park and Calder Race Course, could come to Colonial, she’s confident that Colonial Downs will be well-positioned in the years to come. “We’ve had great success with HHR,” Easter said. “Colonial is heading towards being a meet that fans and horsemen really look forward to.” Frank Vespe is the founder and publisher of www.theracingbiz.com. He has owned, bought, sold, claimed, written, and talked about horses, in varying combinations, for a decade. This article is reprinted with permission.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

The Virginia Steeplechase Awards PHOTOS © BY DILLIONKEENPHOTOGRAPHY

Paddy Young, former NSA champion rider looks on as his wife Leslie Young was honored as the Open Leading Trainer.

Will Russell accepted the award for Virginia Leading Hurdle Horse for Animal Kingston from host Don Yovanovich. Neil Morris took the top spot as Virginia Leading Trainer.

Additional winners: Irv Naylor-Open Leading Owner; Thomas GarnerOpen Leading Rider; Tomgarrow-Open Leading Timber Horse; Barry Foley-Virginia Leading Rider; Snap Decision-Steeplechase Horse of the Year. Cathy Zimmerman and Sam Cockburn.

Following a secret meeting photographer Douglas Lees was given the Francis Thornton Greene award for his service to the steeplechase community. He shares his knowledge and wisdom of photography with so many and generously gives photographs of so many people and horses for calendars, ads, magazines, books and more.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

Miles Clancy joined his father Sean Clancy whose Riverdee Stables was honored as Virginia Leading Owner and their horse City Dream was Virginia Owned Steeplechase Horse Of The Year.

VIRGINIA HORSE RACING SCHEDULE

2022

virginiahorseracing.com Point-to-Point (PTP) Schedule March 5:

Rappahannock PTP in Boston, VA

March 19: Warrenton Hunt PTP at the Airlee Race Course March 26: Piedmont Fox Hounds PTP in Upperville April 9:

Old Dominion Hounds PTP in Ben Venue

April 24:

Loudoun Hunt PTP in Leesburg

April 17: May 1:

Blue Ridge PTP in Berryville

Middleburg Hunt PTP at Glenwood Park

(details at centralentryoffice.com)

NSA Sanctioned Steeplechase Meet Schedule April 23:

Middleburg Spring Races

May 7:

Virginia Gold Cup Spring Races

April 30:

Foxfield Spring Races

(details at nationalsteeplechase.com)

Thoroughbred Racing Schedule July 11 - September 7:

Pari-mutuel racing at Colonial Downs in New Kent, VA

Racing every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday at 1:30 PM

(details at colonialdowns.com)

Harness Racing Schedule August 31 - September 3:

Shenandoah County Fair in Woodstock

September 16 - November 5: Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock (pending VRC approval)

(details at shenandoahdowns.com)

A Determined, Designing Woman “The 100 lambs are ridiculously charming. So, it’s easy to get overly ambitious and hard to be a disciplined shepherd.” By Vicky Moon

ranny Kansteiner grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and said, “It was all I ever wanted to do, to live on a farm, to have a rural life. I stayed on a friend’s horse farm and was given chores to do each morning which their children might have resented, but I cherished.” Bingo, fast forward. She’s now married to Walter Kansteiner III, with grown children Chalker Kansteiner and his sister, Beverly Burden, and her children, Angus, 8, and Scout, 5. Imagine a drone camera is floating slowly over the 100 acres of Gum Tree Farm near Middleburg, which began with three starter sheep 27 years ago. These days, 300 Merino sheep now graze blissfully. In another corner of the property, 100 recently weaned lambs are bleating for their mommas. They will soon get over it and Gum Tree Farm will shift gears to shearing. “When the lambs are a year-old, they get their first haircut. Sheep shearing for us is in the early spring,” Franny said. “That’s where lambswool comes from. We shear the mothers as well. And, their wool is still extremely soft.” The wool gets an organic wash, a blow out, and then is spun and woven. There are 45 tasteful designs for capes, tunics, vests, jackets, dresses and ponchos along with smart shirts for men and women, coats and trousers. And also hand knitted pieces for babies. “To paraphrase Coco Chanel,” Franny noted, “our designs reflect our ideas of the way we want to live our lives on this earth. We try to create classic designs with distinctive details.”

Photo courtesy

Fringe jacket, inspired by a Chanel is handwoven in cocoa brown wool with gold accents.

Photo by Doug Gehlsen of Middleburg Photo

Blankets from Gum Tree Farm Designs. Photo by Doug Gehlsen of Middleburg Photo

Franny Kansteiner calls it “warm love.

Photo © by Dillionkeenphotography

Photo © by Angus Burden.

Feeding the babies.

Indigo, royal, navy and sky. This blue cape is trimmed in leather from Journeymen Saddlers in Middleburg.

Photo © by Dillionkeenphotography

Photo courtesy

A shepherd watches over her flock

A selection of capes at 103 West Federal Street.

Photo © by Dillionkeenphotography

Talk about a black sheep in the family.

Too cute for words.

Mama sheep and baby lamb

Gum Tree Farm Designs is located in Middleburg at 103 West Federal St. and online at gumtreefarmdesigns.com Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Legendary Lola is a Therapy Hearthrob

Valerie Banks-Amster and Lola with a smitten admirer.

By Leslie VanSant

sk a horse person and almost surely they’ll have a story about a chestnut mare in their lives. She was either the best horse or the worst. Athletic. Opinionated. Smart. Stubborn. Lola is a chestnut mare, and a legend in the making. Not because she’s earned the most ribbons at the Upperville Colt and Horse Show or won the Virginia Gold Cup. It’s because she’s all heart and will undoubtedly win yours if ever you have the chance to see her in action. Lola, a miniature horse, is a certified therapy animal. She travels to her appointments with her human partner, Valerie Banks-Amster, in the back of a converted mini-van, munching hay from a net resting on the center console. She really likes it when the sun roof is open. But Lola is most joyful when she’s working. And her job is helping people of all ages overcome anxiety and feel loved. You don’t have to look far in Middleburg to find someone who will tell you how horses can provide emotional benefits. Horses were domesticated nearly 6,000 years ago. And it’s said the first horse-crazy human followed shortly thereafter.

Courtesy Photo

Lola makes a new friend at the Mountainside Montessori School fall festival. The science behind equine assisted therapy is relatively modern, starting in the mid-20th century. Horses are used in a range of activities to promote patients’ physical and mental health. “If people are anxious, Lola helps them feel calm,” said Banks-Amster. “She can be very zen, and rest her head on a person’s lap. If they’re lonely, she’s a friend who listens and doesn’t judge. Part of what she brings to everyone is a little magic.” Lola knows no bounds. She’s made friends at schools, hospitals and senior centers. “She really reads her audience,” Banks-Amster said, describing how Lola uses many of her “tricks” to connect with people--whether it’s high jumping, crossing her legs, or shaking hands. Special needs children might spend time petting and grooming Lola to work on motor skills. Or, walking her (with assistance) through a course of cones to improve balance. Sometimes she’s all ears, encouraging engagement and conversation from seniors who are struggling with speech.

Banks-Amster is a familiar face, and voice, at local horse shows where she is an announcer and manager. She grew up a little “horse crazy” herself, riding and showing. She also had volunteered with several therapeutic riding programs and took courses and trained with others. Finding an animal partner of her own became an idea that was realized when a friend connected her to Lola in 2018. Therapy horses must go through intense training. Temperament, kindness and empathy are the key ingredients for success. Immediately, Banks-Amster saw something special in Lola and the two started training. They ultimately passed their evaluation and were certified. “One of my main jobs as Lola’s partner, is to care for her and maintain her happiness while she is working,” explained Banks-Amster. “This means showing people how Lola likes to be touched. Helping her share her tricks. Keeping her and the humans around her safe.”

“Interacting with Lola can really help combat loneliness,” Banks-Amster said.

Last year, Banks-Amster teamed with Lori Bakewell and Jennifer Royall Anderson to produce a children’s book: I am Lola, and an album of songs performed by Banks Amster.

Recently, Lola and her handler visited Grace Miller Elementary School in Bealeton to help students grieve for a beloved teacher who died.

To learn more about Lola, visit www.horsetales.org.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

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Homes for the Hardworking S By Jodi Nash

helly Hall has recently moved into a new three-bedroom, energy efficient Warrenton home with her two daughters, ages 12 and 7, the culmination of a process that began in 2011 when she learned she had pulmonary fibrosis. Her earning capacity was diminished by her health challenges and she knew her housing options were limited. She also remembered when she was 16, her grandmother was the grateful recipient of a Habitat for Humanities home.

“I knew It was the only way to provide for my children,” said Shelly, a 42-year-old single mom who works as an administrative assistant for a local real estate company. When she applied to Fauquier Habitat in 2019, she discovered “it was no walk in the park.” Families and individuals are chosen based on need, ability to pay and a genuine willingness to partner with Habitat. It involves signing a covenant/ partnership agreement that requires each adult to complete 250 hours of sweat equity (volunteer hours), with a minimum of 15 hours a month working in Habitat’s administrative offices or on site. Additionally, every new homeowner must attend classes once a month to prepare for home ownership, from long term financial planning and insurance, to interior and exterior maintenance. Throughout the 18-month turn-around process, they must save $1,000 toward closing costs at settlement. Founded in 1991, Fauquier Habitat for Humanity is based on the conviction that every man, woman, and child should be able to own and live in a home in a healthy neighborhood with access to jobs, transportation, healthy food, and quality schools. Fauquier Habitat builds new houses in Fauquier and Rappahannock counties, but also has expanded its mission to include a Critical Home Repair Program. It’s designed to alleviate health and safety issues for seniors, the disabled, or low-income earners who would otherwise live in substandard conditions. Applicants must own and occupy the home being repaired (which must be at least 10 years old). They also can’t be more than 60 days behind in their mortgage payments, or in danger of foreclosure or condemnation, and must be current on their property taxes and have (or be willing to acquire) homeowner’s insurance, in addition to meeting certain income guidelines. Repairs must improve health, safety, accessibility and/or energy efficiency of a home. It might include installing smoke detectors, roofing and electrical repairs/replacement, plumbing repairs, bathroom accessibility and safety upgrades. Melanie Burch, Habitat’s senior director of operations and planning, credits the non-profit’s relationships with local subcontractors and vendors who donate labor and materials.

Linneka Greene and her sons Ramad, 9, and Douglas, 2. she said. “They did the electrical rough-in one day, and the next day did the finish work.”

questions, career development, and any issues which might arise unexpectedly, such as job loss.

Melanie acted as the general contractor for Shelly’s house and is passionate about her work.

Linneka Greene is also among the new Habitat homeowners and overjoyed at the prospect. A single mom with two sons, Ramad, 9, and Douglas, 2, she’s worked night shifts for 14 years at Quest Diagnostics in Chantilly as a lab processor. In transitional housing for five months, she had a misconception about Habitat.

“Haiti Street in Warrenton is designated for historic redevelopment,” she said. “These are not just blighted homes; they have historic relevance. When we rebuild, we try to capture what was here originally, while using energy efficient materials and best building practices. We want to build it right the first time.”

“I assumed it was like Section 8 federal housing and I would be denied for too much income,” she said, adding that she now knows that Fauquier Habitat believes in “a hand up, not a handout.”

“Ennis Electric wanted to get involved, so they donated all the electrical materials for this house,”

Elizabeth Rose, Habitat’s director of programming and Services, works closely with the recipient families. And Habitat advocates are volunteers trained to assist first time homeowners with the USDA mortgage application process, homework,

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

As she told her 10-year-old son, “we’re in a competition to win a new house.” They did, and she earned it.

MODERN FINANCE

Slava Ukraini: A Bitcoin Battle Cry

By Philip Dudley

may have been born at night, but not last night. Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” within Ukraine has been nothing short of a despot seeking to restore the former Soviet Union to all its soPhilip Dudley called past glory. The war propaganda disseminated in Russia in March and the plight of the Ukrainian people has had the civilized western world understandably on a razor’s edge. Of interest to me, and surely others, is how many people on the planet have chosen to help the Ukrainians in an unconventional way. If you still think Bitcoin is not useful, just consider the February 26 tweet by Mykhailo Fedorov, Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine, when he asked the twitter sphere to send crypto donations. Stand with the people of Ukraine Now accepting cryptocurrency donations. Ethereum, Bitcoin and Tether (USDTtrc20) BTC – 57a3So9CbsNfBBgFYACGvxxS6tMaDoa1P ETH – 0x165CD37b4C644C2921454429E7F9358d18A45e14 USDT (trc20) – TEFccmfQ38cZS1DTZVhsxKVDckA8Y6VfCy

Ukrainian cryptocurrency exchanges are accepting donations and then in turn are sending crypto to the citizens so that they have currency to transact in country to buy basic necessities. This is truly astounding. Coinbase, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, estimates the donations have exceeded $100 million midway through March and here is a list of how some of the money is being used: Bulletproof jackets, meal kits, ballistic plates for bulletproof vests, thermal imaging and optics, helmets, walkie-talkies and medicine. Folks, war has never seen anything like this. A sovereign nation, in this instance, requesting crypto over U.S. dollars. In yet another incredible development, as the Russians systematically crippled Ukraine’s communication infrastructure, Elon Musk joined the fray after a tweet from, you guessed it, the above mentioned Mykhailo Fedorov. Within 10 hours, he activated Starlink, a high speed internet service via a small dish, in the country. Mykhailo Fedorov: “@elonmusk, while you try to colonize Mars – Russia try to occupy Ukraine! While your rockets successfully land from space – Russian rockets attack Ukrainian civil people! We ask you to provide Ukraine with Starlink stations and to address sane Russians to stand.”

Elon Musk: “Starlink service is now active in Ukraine. More terminals en route.” Another interesting case use is the following. Outside of the government, Ukrainian cryptocurrency exchanges are accepting donations and then in turn are sending crypto to the citizens so that they have currency to transact in country to buy basic necessities. As an example, when the battered city of Mariupol was under siege with no water, no heat, no money, etc., the internet was s alive and well and the lucky few were able to accept donations in crypto. That in turn provided a means to buy those essential items, if available. And so, by tweaking a few satellites and sending some terminals, Presto, internet service returned to the people. Request donations in Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether, and you can supply a civilian army. There you have it, Ukraine is literally using technology to fight for freedom. And “Slava Ukraini” translated as “Glory to Ukraine” is their battle cry. Philip Dudley is the founder and managing partner of Dudley Capital Management, LLC based in Middleburg.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

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A Local Banker Bonds With Her Butterflies elaplane resident Lisa Burnside has a decades long reputation in the banking world. She’s been a financial services leader and wealth advisor to countless clients. Her world has been fast-paced and number-driven but staying closer to home during the pandemic gave her time for reflection. It also provided the opportunity to spend more hours in her five-acre garden area. That’s where she discovered something very special. “It was really a fluke accident,” said Burnside of her decision to cultivate a few milkweed plants. The monarch is a milkweed butterfly. The green leaves provide the perfect place to lay tiny eggs and clusters of them first caught her attention. She started watching them. Pretty soon those tiny eggs turned into tiny caterpillars. If left undisturbed or not eatPhoto by Anita Sherman en by predators, these caterFinancial planner Lisa Burnside has a pillars attach themselves to new passion in life, helping protect the underside of the milkweed Monarch butterflies. leaves to form a protective green sac (chrysalis). From there, the stunning predominantly orange and black monarch butterfly emerges. “It was fascinating to watch,” said Burnside, who soon started researching and learning all she could about Monarch butterflies. The entire cycle of laying an egg to producing a butterfly takes on average about 32 days. Burnside bubbled with enthusiasm as she shared photo after photo of the various stages of the soon-to-be Monarch butterfly and her new mission to save as many of them as she could. Once the Monarch has hatched and has enough energy to sustain itself, it instinctively begins its annual southward migration from the northern and central United States and southern Canada to Florida and Mexico. Burnside’s butterflies will cover thousands of miles with a corresponding multigenerational return north. “Can we come and watch?” is now a request Burnside receives from friends, family and neighbors. Burnside’s husband, Steve, is equally captivated. He’s helped erect butterfly cages (finely netted tent affairs) to protect the developing chrysalis

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

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The final product, a magnificent Monarch. from natural predators. “We feed hundreds of birds in the backyard,” said Burnside, acknowledging that they are potential predators to the Monarch at all its life stages. She’s equally confident that through her efforts, a larger number of Monarchs will be saved. “It was fun,” Burnside said, recalling her first efforts at seeing some 20 butterflies go from miniscule egg to magnificent Monarch. She started with six milkweed and now, with 200, she looks forward to the number of saved butterflies growing.

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“I’m not a hobby person…I don’t collect things,” Burnside said. But she is keen on making a difference in the world however she can. “And I haven’t been a gardening person,” she said. “I stopped using plastic bags years ago, and I don’t use plastic water bottles. I believe we can be better stewards, that we need do no harm to the environment.” Burnside has spent too many years in the financial arena to give that up. She recently signed a contract with Fidelity Investments after a long stint with BB&T (now Truist).

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Her business savvy, caring and commitment to her clients will continue. When she isn’t crunching numbers, she’ll be watching the butterfly barometer. “I’m listening, I’m open,” she said, reflecting on her personal journey in life and what is important to her. “When you look at the transformation that God has created in the life of the Monarch butterfly, what greater transformation can be found in us? It’s amazing. “This gives me peace.”

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

In Willisville, Two Sisters Acting on Their Dreams

By Linda Roberts

hen sisters Carol Lee and Janet Hagan reflect on growing up in the small western Loudoun village of Willisville, they recall a time when segregation meant little to nothing to them. Lee, now 66, described Willisville as “unique” and said, “living here was like living in our own world. We were naïve.” Hagan, 73, added, “We had entirely different experiences than (Black) children growing up in the city. As children in Willisville, we never experienced what it meant to be Black.” Lee continues to make her home in Willisville, while Hagan lives in Rocky Mount, N.C. and visits often because their mother, Ann Lee, 95, still lives in the village. The sisters agree that, “There aren’t too many communities where you can sit and talk with people who went to a one-room schoolhouse.” It’s thought that the tiny village, with 15 homes, is named for Henson Willis, the first person believed to be buried in one of the community’s three cemeteries. Local landowners Richard Dulaney, John Carter and Townsend Seaton are responsible for making land available to form Willisville because many residents once worked on their adjoining farms. Land ownership anchored residents to the community as they began purchasing lots to build dwellings in the 1870s. Lee and Hagan are passionate about the preservation of their little village, which provided the springboard to their adult lives and their view of the world. They were instrumental in founding the

The Willisville Preservation Foundation worked with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources on creation of a highway marker installed last year.

Photos by Linda Roberts

Willisville Preservation Foundation incorporated in 2018 as a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit entity, helped along the way by the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association among other organizations. With the support of local historic preservationist Jane Covington, Willisville is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. The foundation has an 11-member board with a mission to keep alive the history and preservation of the village and its schoolhouse and grounds, which also contains an overgrown cemetery. Originally a one-room private school, which also functioned as a church for the community, the building and its surrounding land were eventually sold to Loudoun County school system. The school continued until 1958 when it closed and students were then bussed to Banneker Elementary in nearby St. Louis, another small western Loudoun village.

Sisters Janet Hagan (left) and Carol Lee look over memorabilia collected on Willisville’s oneroom schoolhouse. Today the school and its grounds, including the cemetery, have changed hands and it is a privately owned home and property. When looking back at what’s been accomplished so far, Lee and Hagan, backed by the Willisville Preservation Foundation, are now poised to tackle the foundation’s new goals, which include being added to the Loudoun Historic District. Hagan recalls eating peanuts and drinking Hawaiian punch as an elementary student at the Willisville one-room school. “You can’t throw your dreams away,” she said. “You have to act on them.” The Willisville Preservation Foundation seeks information about the history of the village. Contact the Foundation at P.O. Box 659, Middleburg, VA 20118.

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For Joey and Kristi Snider, A Move To Marshall

Today we are delivering joy. Fauquier Health strives to provide delivering mothers and care partners with a comfortable experience. Scan the QR code

Joey and Kristi Snider and friends.

to hear what our patients had to say.

By Leonard Shapiro

hen Joey Snider opened his plumbing and water treatment business in Middleburg in 1983, he and his brother Bill were the only two employees, with a single truck to get them where they needed to go. Fast forward 39 years, and oh my, how this now iconic local company’s fortunes have changed. These days, J.R. Snider Plumbing and WaterCare has 18 employees, both in the office and/or manning as many as 11 trucks sent out on service calls all around the area. Within three years of opening, they had 300 clients; now it’s 2,200, a number that keeps growing all the time. And here comes the biggest change of all, something of a bittersweet “parting is such sweet sorrow” moment in the company’s history. On April 1, J.R. Snider moved its entire operation to a new location just outside Marshall. It’s only seven miles from their long-time Pendleton Street address in Middleburg, but Joey and his wife, Kristi, are already feeling a touch of melancholy over the move. “I’m sad but also glad,” Joey said. “To leave this comfort zone and the wonderful environment of this village is not easy. But I’m glad for the ability to rattle my cage a little and bring the company to a higher level of customer service.” The move became necessary because the company had simply outgrown its Middleburg location. “There’s three times more space in Marshall than we have here,” Joey said a few weeks before the move. “In the last five years, we’ve grown by 35 percent. We really outgrew this four or five years ago. We need more parking space. The people in the office are crammed in there. We needed more storage space.” Because of Covid-induced supply chain issues over the last two years, Joey said it’s now necessary to stock at least 60 days worth of materials to meet their customers’ needs. It ranges from water heaters, water conditioning equipment, pressure tanks, wire, tools and more. They’ll have far more room in the new headquarters, just off Route 55 halfway between Marshall and The Plains. “I had been thinking about doing this for a while,” Joey said. “It’s going to be hard to leave. I know it’s only seven miles, not that far, but it’s not Middleburg. I just want the people in this town to know how good Middleburg has been to J.R. Snider. We’re just so appreciative.” Kristi Snider, who runs the front office operation, also has mixed feelings about the move. “I’m a little nervous,” she said. “I do think it’s a good thing for the company, but it’s hard because people have been so good to us.” J.R. Snider has been good to its clients, as well. Kitchen flooded from a cracked pipe at 7 on a Saturday night? Snider’s on-call crew can get there in a hurry. It’s been that way forever, and relocating to Marshall won’t change the urgency to come help on a moment’s notice. Joey said he really doesn’t want to make a big deal over the move. After all, his highly skilled crews still will be available at all hours of the day or night. “I don’t need a parade,” he said. Even though it couldn’t be more well-deserved.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

White Post THE TINY VILLAGE OF WHITE POST HAS A HISTORIC CLAIM TO FAME By Jill Devine The white post of White Post, Virginia, has been standing, in various rebuilt and repaired iterations, since 1750. The officer who responded to the accident in White Post, Virginia, must have been new to the area. He pulled up to the intersection of Berry’s Ferry and White Post Roads, where locals were gathering, and he began to fill out a report. Noting the damage to the vehicle, he gazed at the splintered 11-foot wooden street post and asked who put it in the middle of the road in the first place. “Actually, it was George Washington,” answered Billy Thompson, who owns a repair shop across the street. “The officer’s face went blank, but then he shrugged and just finished the report,” laughs Thompson, whose family has been repairing the post for about 70 years. The accident was just one in a long history of collisions. And, yes, all fingers point to 17-year-old surveyor George Washington as the one most likely to have planted the marker there more than 270 years ago for a family friend and mentor, Lord Thomas Fairfax. Wood markers had to be tall enough to be spotted on horseback. This particular post, placed at the edge of developing wilderness, directed travaelers wanting to lease or buy land to Fairfax’s office on Greenway Court. This undated photo shows a much earlier construction of the often-damaged post. The post preceded the village for which it was named. Along two intersecting colonial roads, villagers gradually erected houses, shops and churches. After the arrival of paved roads and automobiles, the post did not budge. Standing like an awkward centennial in the middle of the road, Washington’s marker remained the village’s dearest claim to fame. The post has often been replaced due to wood rot or accidents. There is no record of the original design, but Washington’s

This undated photo shows a much earlier construction of the often-damaged post.

journals mention markers made of locust. Old photographs show variations of the octagonal post and its four directional paddles (Battletown, Greenway Court, Berry’s Ferry, Stephens City). Some photos show a simple finial at the top, and others show a lantern. Thompson says that when the interior post needs total replacement, they use a locust tree from Mount Vernon. “We have a contact there to help us with that.” The post can never be relocated, because it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which some motorists apparently find inconvenient. Thompson lost count of the number of accidents, but his business has rebuilt the post 13 times. About 20 years ago, a SUV hit the post with such force that it destroyed the post and totaled the flipped vehicle. The driver, a physician, told police “he didn’t see” the large post. “A daytime accident in a 25-mile speed zone,” shrugs Thompson. Other accidents involved snow plows, street pavers, tractor trailers, and pickup trucks. One repair went to court when the responsible party refused to pay for damages. That’s when the Virginia Department of Transportation claimed ownership. Now Thompson conducts repairs as a contractor to VDOT, and he says a complete redo takes about 30 hours and costs $5,000. The latest damage to the post was a late-night hit-and-run encounter in December 2020. “We have a security camera,” says Thompson, whose primary business is renowned automobile shop White Post Restorations. “A service truck was pulling a trailer, and the trailer caught the edge of the post, spun it a bit and broke a few of the boards, but we couldn’t catch the license plate number.” Thompson has the drill down pat, and repairs were promptly scheduled. “White Post residents love this post,” he says. “It’s what we’re known for, and we don’t want it to ever go away.”

The white post of White Post, Virginia, has been standing, in various rebuilt and repaired iterations, since 1750.

Reprinted with permission from Blue Ridge Country magazine’s Jan/Feb ’22 edition; for subscription information: blueridgecountry.com

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

ReStoreYOUR

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Your donation helps build a better future for local families and reduces tons of landfill waste. Where Home Goods, Do Good.

fauquierhabitat.org 855.914.3447 • 617 Frost Avenue, Warrenton, VA 20186

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

5/4/21 2:48 PM67

Tip Toe Through The Tulips

istoric Garden Week will have a stop in Old Town Leesburg on Sunday, April 24, 1 – 5 p.m. and Monday, April 25, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. As part of America’s largest “Open House,” the Leesburg Garden Club invites you to stroll along Cornwall Street, the heart of Leesburg’s Historic District. Established in 1757 as the seat of Loudoun County, visitors are invited to make four stops, with each wayside featuring a charming late-18th through 20th century property with beautifully restored gardens. Tour proceeds fund the restoration and preservation of Virginia’s historic gardens and provide graduate level research fellowships for building comprehensive and ongoing records of historic gardens and landscapes in the Commonwealth and support the mission of the Garden Club of Virginia. So….on your mark, get set, go.

21 Wirt Street, NW This 1894 home is an excellent example of a Queen Anne-style house. It’s been modernized over the years by the current residents, only the fifth family to own the property. The wraparound porch, sun porch, spacious and light-filled interiors, unique mantelpieces, and blending of old and new furniture and art give this home its special character. The gardens maximize fragrance near windows and sitting areas and provide long-lasting color and interest throughout. They are filled with abundant spring bulbs and perennials, including mature tree peonies and weigelia. Several types of coral bells are used in the garden. The rear yard is framed by mature American boxwood and viburnum, creating a hedge for privacy. Flowering fruit trees, a vegetable garden, a small fish pond garden, statues and arbors are some of the additional treasures in the rear and side yards. Garden Path at 21 Wirt Street, NW

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

209 Cornwall Street, NW

Garden Path at 209 Cornwall Street, NW

The Colonial Revival home, designed by Joanne Tiffany, was built in 1950. It was constructed on the foundation of an early 19th century residence, and later used as the Black Cat Ordinary, which was destroyed by fire in 1948. The property was previously owned by Burr Powell Harrison, Jr., a renowned champion of historic and environmental preservation in Loudoun County, and his wife, Agnes Harrison, founder of Keep Loudoun Beautiful, member of the Leesburg and FauquierLoudoun garden clubs, and a board member of the Garden Club of Virginia. The current owners purchased the property in 2013 and completed an extensive renovation in 2015. It included the conversion to a geothermal heating and cooling system and the addition of a basement, east-side porch, large flagstone patio and two fountains. Their update also included the removal of a partial asphalt driveway in the backyard. Three large cisterns are buried beneath the rain garden in the southeast corner of the property to collect stormwater for irrigation. The half-acre lot features mature trees, Japanese holly, Chinese snowball viburnum and climbing roses. Two Japanese lilac trees provide fragrant blooms and shade on the rear patio. A row of 165-year-old boxwoods anchors the back of the property, while providing a four-season screen. Dogwoods, Amelanchier, hellebores, daffodils and tulips provide springtime blooms. The gardens, which appeal to pollinators, feature lavender, phlox, liatris, cardinal flower, and aromatic asters.

211 Cornwall Street Garden This home is an example of Federal-style architecture in Leesburg’s Historic District. Records indicate the original 2 ½-story brick section was constructed in 1788. A two-story frame addition was recognized in 2012 with a “Historic District Design Excellence Award” from the Loudoun County Joint Architectural Review Board. The formality and symmetry of the architecture is reflected throughout the exterior and gardens. The yard is organized according to four “rooms,” which are delineated by small ornamental trees, boxwoods, and yew hedges. The narrow side yard, framed with hellebores, star magnolia, dogwoods, and hydrangeas, draws visitors back toward the second area, which is bounded by the back porch, fountains, crabapple trees and a potting shed. The central formal garden, surrounding the focal sculpture of Diana the Huntress, follows a tranquil white and green color palette with peonies, hydrangea, white lavender, and roses. Beyond the tall yew hedges is a fourth “room,” which contains raised beds for vegetables, a cutting garden for seasonal flowers and a workshop, also built in 2011.

Garden Path at 211 Cornwall Street

215 Cornwall Street, NW

Garden Path at 215 Cornwall Street, NW

The original portion of this Federal-style brick home was built in 1824 and included a front parlor, side hall with stairs leading to a second-floor bedroom, and a detached brick kitchen. 19th and 20thcentury expansions include a dining room connecting the main house to the original kitchen, a 1960s wing with a family room and bedrooms, and a guest cottage at the rear of the ¾-acre property. The seven-foot kitchen hearth is one of six fireplaces in the home. The foyer features an 18th century grandfather clock by Connecticut clockmaker Daniel Burnap. The current owners converted a rear porch into a breakfast room adjacent to the original kitchen and restored the brick patio designed by acclaimed landscape architect M. Meade Palmer. The smokehouse is used as the owners’ workshop; the icehouse below is used for garden storage. The gardens include boxwood, spring bulbs, and flowering trees. The recent addition of raised vegetable beds and a spacious chicken coop provide the owners with a steady supply of produce and eggs.

This walking tour is held rain or shine. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. When: Sunday, April 24, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. and Monday, April 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Advance tickets are $40 per person by mail or can be purchased at two Leesburg venues. To purchase tickets in advance: by mail, send by April 12 a self-addressed stamped business size envelope with check written to Leesburg Garden Club, PO Box 2006, Leesburg, VA 20177. At in-person Leesburg venues, go to Visit Loudoun, 112 G South Street or to the George C. Marshall International Center, 217 Edwards Ferry Road. Tickets also may be purchased online at vagardenweek.org. The day of event tickets are $50 per person at Tour Headquarters. leesburg@vagardenweek.org For additional Old Town Leesburg tour and ticket information, visit leesburggardenclub.org. Tour Headquarters are located at St. James’ Episcopal Church, 14 Cornwall Street, NW with public facilities available at Tour Headquarters and Leesburg Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

The Wonder Women of Middleburg’s Safeway Pharmacy

MARSHAL 7-ELEVEN

YOUR HOMETOWN GO-TO CONVENIENCE STORE “Give the customers what they want, when and where they want it.” —Joe C. Thompson Jr., 7-Eleven Founder

7-Eleven was the first to provide to-go coffee cups! 7-Eleven was the first to operate 24 hours a day!

• Gift Cards • Financial Services • Get Stimulus Ready

• Gas • Diesel • Propane

7-ELEVEN

FUN FACTS

GROCERIES

• Coffee • Slurpee® • Juices • Beer • Wine • Energy Shots • Big Gulp • AND MORE ...

MONEY

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7-Eleven and their brands are a big part of the American culture and are recognized worldwide. The Marshall 7-Eleven is your go-to convenience store for food, beverages, money related items, fuel, general grocery items and so much more! Check out some of our offerings ... • • • • • •

Milk Bread Cereal Medication Laundry Car Maintenance • Telephone Chargers • Batteries • AND SO MUCH MORE ...

7-Eleven was the first to offer a self-serve soda fountain! 7-Eleven coined the phrase “Brain-Freeze®”!

As a franchise owner and an active member of my community, I’m proud to be a part of the 7-Eleven and Marshall, VA story. Stop by and see us! — Bernice Simpson

By Carina Elgin

he busiest place in Middleburg per square inch is undeniably the Safeway Pharmacy. Just ask any of those mostly patient patrons who always seem to be waiting in line between the vitamin Photo by Carina Elgin display and the baking potatoes. Pharmacy service with a smile from Cathy Three remarkable women Davis, Aruna Chintamaneni and Lisa West. have gone a long way toward All three are only together one day a week. getting this small town through the pandemic, meeting the Middleburg area’s pharmaceutical needs with efficiency and a smile, even when they probably felt like howling at the moon. In a space that’s less than 30 square feet, filled with shelves of bottles, computers and an endlessly ringing phone, they manage to call doctors offices, contact insurance companies, administer a variety of vaccines, and fill some 800-1,000 prescriptions per week. Sit in one of the two chairs tucked into the cramped “waiting area,” and your view is usually the “back pocket” of the person at the customer window. Sometimes, two more chairs, and maybe a folding table, would overflow into the vitamin-potato line. This is where they’ve given about 2,000 Covid vaccinations. The first friendly face customers see is usually pharmacy technician Lisa West, who grew up in Warrenton and went to Fauquier High School. “I kind of fell into this job when a former employee told me about it,” she said. “I was offered the job and my career started.” That was 22 years ago. Cathy Davis is one of the two full-time pharmacists, the blonde with those kind blue eyes visible above her mask. Davis grew up in Richmond and in North Carolina, but now lives in Haymarket. She’s been at the Safeway pharmacy for 13 years. “I worked for the Virginia Board of Pharmacy right out of pharmacy school, as an inspector for eight years,” she said. “Then I then took time off to raise my girls, and came back to work here in 2009.” Aruna Chintamaneni exudes compassion and patience, like the others. She grew up in India, and now lives in Ashburn. She decided to “go with pharmacy so that I can help people.” She’s been a pharmacist for 18 years, the past six at the Safeway. Despite their frequently frenetic pace, all three woman clearly are enamored with Middleburg. Chintamaneni described it as a “beautiful small village, where people are always very friendly and helpful.” Davis loves all the dogs, and how beautiful the town is at Christmas. She adds, “our customers are so good to us. They make the job worth it.” And, she’s made countless friends working behind the sliding glass windows of the pharmacy. “I know their names, their children’s names, grandchildren’s names, their pets’ names,” she said. “I see people I went to school with. The best part of working in a small village is recognizing people walking on the street, saying hi, and telling them to have a great day.” The stress of the pandemic has taken its toll on everyone, particularly among health care professionals. While this Safeway staff never complains, many customers say they’d like to see the pharmacy have more space to serve the community, especially when giving vaccines. It’s obvious there’s no room to add more staff. Even two people behind the counter have to choreograph their movements. So, for now, at least, the daily line of customers will continue, sometimes even backing up to the carrots. Still, the Safeway pharmacy staff somehow manages to stay kind, patient and professional in every way, cramped quarters or not. Good for them. Better for us.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

OUT & ABOUT

Ann MacLeod presented the Ann MacLeod Spirit award to Erik Scheps during the Middleburg Tennis Club’s winter tournament.

Storied Friends: Marguerite Henry and Wesley Dennis explores the literary and artistic partnership that brought Misty and many other equine friends to the hearts of young and old between 19451965. The pair published fifteen books together, twelve of which are featured in the exhibit on view in the Forrest E. Mars, Sr. exhibit hall at the National Sporting Library & Museum from April 30 through September 11. Many in the area have fond memories of Dennis and his family, who lived in Warrenton.

The Yale Whiffenpoofs, the oldest collegiate a cappella singing group in the country, recently performed as part of the Middleburg Concert series before a packed and very appreciative audience at the Salamander Resort & Spa.

Available in HI FYBE PLUS & SENIOR The Middleburg-based RSC (Raising Seventeen Children) racing team of Peter Pejacsevich, Mark Wyatt, Brian Wilson and Alex Vogel won the overall championship in their division of the American Endurance Racing Series (AER). They went up against 116 teams in an eight-race race season. They were the first team to earn over 300 points and completed nearly 4,000 racing laps at eight different race tracks. They’ll soon be competing in AER again with a second car, racing for the first time at Road Atlanta, Sebring and Daytona.

Tri-County Feeds

The Goose Creek Association is hosting a Spring Day of canoeing on Goose Creek to clean and protect the area watershed. Reserve a canoe/kayak or bring your own and meet at the Benton Bridge on the Foxcroft Road. Canoes and lunch will be provided. Reservations required by April 30th. Bring water, bug spray, hat, gloves, suncreen. Details: info@goosecreek.org.

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Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

Falling in Love with Middleburg, and Each Other

the workplace and their communities.

By Carina Elgin

With a population just over 800, Middleburg has “gone from more of a working man’s town in the 1980s, to the tourist town it is today,” Kevin said. But he and Lori remained enamored with the town.

own Council member Kevin Daly started visiting Middleburg in the 1980s, drawn by Civil War history. He lived in Haymarket, and would drive around the area, retracing the footsteps of Colonel John Mosby and his Rangers. He quickly fell in love with the town’s historic buildings and welcoming citizenry. Some years later, Lori Daly also started visiting Middleburg. Even though she lived in Potomac Falls, east of Leesburg, she was recruited to the Middleburg Players Community Theater group. She also was soon captivated by the horses, the farms and the charm of the village. In 2001, they both found their way to worship at Middleburg’s Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Though they still lived in other locations, both felt embraced by the church’s congregation. One day, Kevin was volunteering as an usher when Lori and her sister entered. He offered them a “pew for two.” and said he was “smitten.” And so, they began dating. In 2002, Kevin bought a home in the village, where they still live. A year later, they married. And in 2005, Colonel Daly retired from the military, after a varied and distinguished 33-year career. Kevin grew up in a military family, living at bases across the U.S. and in England. In 1972, he joined the Air Force, which taught him discipline and gave him wide educational opportunities. While serving

“I love that it is very walkable. You can walk to the post office and chat with the postmaster, and everyone else you know.” A storyteller with a delicious sense of humor, he added that, “You can then walk up to the Town Hall, pay your water bill, and save the cost of a stamp.” The Dalys know the names of most dogs they encounter on daily walks around town. They’re happy most businesses are pooch friendly, though their own two labs are getting too old for longer strolls. Photo by Carina Elgin

Lori and Kevin Daly in Thailand, Germany, Japan and the U.S., he earned a college degree and then enrolled in a graduate program. He worked for the Defense Intelligence Agency and the National Reconnaissance Office, and was assigned to the Pentagon during 9/11. A New Jersey native, Lori worked with government contracting firms and is an advocate for the hiring and support of people with disabilities. She’s founder and president of the Diversifi Consulting Group, focusing on disability awareness, diversity, and inclusion, as well as the value of integrating people with disabilities into

The Dalys also give back to the town that embraced them. They’re are active in the local arts community and remain busy at Emmanuel, where Kevin serves on the vestry. Lori is chair of the Loudoun Disability Services Board, and is committed to helping Middleburg become more accessible to the disabled. Kevin was first elected to the Middleburg Town Council in 2016 and continues in that role, praising the town staff for “doing all of the hard work.” He’s delighted that council members all like each other, all live in town, and all agree they don’t want to lose “what it is all about,” that welcoming sense of community and continuity.

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

A Versatile Virtuoso Finds a Home in the Piedmont By Peyton Tochterman

rowing up in the small town of Greenville, Tennessee, Sarah McMichen watched films of old musicals on VHS with her grandparents and fell in love with the sounds she was hearing.

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“I had no idea that there were other movies to watch. I thought these musicals were how all movies were,” says McMichen, now getting her Doctor of Musical Arts degree Sarah McMichen is a one woman band. at Shenandoah University. She’s also the newest member of the faculty at The Community Music School of the Piedmont (CMSP), based in Upperville, where she teaches flute, saxophone, and clarinet. Founded in 1994 by Shannon Davis and Martha Cotter, CMSP’s mission is to provide high-quality music instruction and performance opportunities that are affordable and accessible to all members of the Piedmont area. “Music is crucial to our lives, and we strive to promote it here with 18 deeply dedicated faculty members serving over 500 students,” Cotter said. “Sarah is very approachable and wholly open-minded, and I knew from her sample lesson during the interview process that she was a natural fit for us.”

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McMichen said CMSP is the perfect fit for her as well. “Martha Cotter,” she said, “is like having another grandmother.” McMichen played and studied clarinet throughout her youth and received her undergraduate degree from Tennessee Tech focusing on that instrument. In high school, she found she loved playing for live audiences after she was asked to fill in at a local theater on a different instrument—the saxophone. “Saxophone music was fun,” she said. “The audiences were receptive to the saxophone, and I hadn’t experienced that on clarinet yet.” When she applied to graduate school, she initially applied for clarinet at the suggestion of her teachers. Yet, deep down, she also wanted to study saxophone and flute. The music community calls this doubling, or the study of more than one woodwind instrument. The only program offering a degree in doubling at the time was Michigan State. “They actually had forgotten that they offered a doubling degree,” she said with a smile. “They told me they were phasing it out. I asked if they would wait two years, and they obliged.” For those two years, McMichen had a “blitz” of saxophone, flute, clarinet, and oboe. After graduation, she stayed in Michigan for four years playing musical theater. “It forced me to have to play many parts, many instruments,” she said. “One week I’m playing flute, the next week, two different saxophone parts. I became very well-rounded, and it forced me to grow.” She moved to Virginia the Friday before her Shenandoah classes started in August, and now she’s grateful for the thriving music community in the Piedmont region. “Shenandoah has a competition for soloists, and I’m used to no one showing up for these kinds of things,” she said. “The place was full. So many people show up for concerts and appreciate them. And the music community here is not bound by genre. The community theaters are all packed.” Her students are equally inspiring. “Teaching for me, it’s not just a musical experience, but a human experience as well. We’re learning about notes, yes, but also about ourselves. Before I picked my career, I was certain of one thing. I wanted to help people. And now I get to. Music is a profound vehicle to do just that.”

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

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Chlorine protects water from to drink it - likewater the plastic on packaged food. Chlorine protects from wrap bacteria until you’re ready ® But you don’t eat food wrappers, right? Chlorine protects water from bacteria until you’re ready WATERCARE IRON GENERATORS to drink it - like the plastic wrap on packaged food. So- like whythe should youwrap drinkon chlorine? We have some news that’stobittersweet. drink it plastic packaged food. But you don’t food contaminates wrappers, right? Ozone thoroughly cleanseat residual from the filter The time has come to relocate both J R Snider Ltd Plumbing & WaterCare But you don’t eat food wrappers, right? OurKeeping affordable systems remove chlorine beforedivisions. Somaintenance why shouldtosafely you drink chlorine? bed. a minimum. Soyour whystreet should youreverse drink We have outgrown our South facility herechlorine? in The Village. you Pendleton enjoy water. Our osmosis drinking Our affordable systems safely remove chlorine before WIFI COMPATIBILITY let’s you & us know when the unit needs water systems are the convenient, We are going to only be Our 7 miles away in between Marshall ands The Plains. affordable systems safely remove chlorine before youaffordable, enjoy water. Our reverse osmosis drinking service, wateryour consumption, running toilets, salt alarm and much environmentally-friendly solution for The new facility will provide the much needed room for our inventory, equipment and parking. you enjoy your water. Our reverse osmosis drinking water systems are the convenient, morebetter information your smart device. waterright foron you, your family and your pets. water systems are the convenient,

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November by calling us for your FREESpecial in-home water test. All$75 of our in home advisors for both WaterCare &System plumbing OFF Reverse Osmosis Drinking Moving forward we plandivisions to use the new facility to provide even a higher level of customer service. have been “vetted” by Daisy & Franklin. So don’t *not valid with other offers or prior service ~ offer expires 11.30.2020 November Special November Special We aren’t getting bigger,hesitate we aretogetting better. call us for all of your Water Treatment, Water heating, $75 OFF Reverse Osmosis Drinking System Call us about our limited* FREE Potable Water System Test $75 OFF Reverse Osmosis Drinking andother Waste Water needs. Our mission still remainsWell thewater same. *not valid with offers or prior service ~ offer expires 11.30.2020

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MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

CUP of COFFEE

Everyone Into the Pool With a Superhorse I was sifting for gold, waiting for the one which felt right. I pulled out the he first Saturday in May, slip and opened it up. 1977. Flag Officer. Dad organized a Who the hell is Flag Officer? Kentucky Derby pool at My dad shrugged his shoulders, his the barn every year, drawing names youngest son learning the vagaries of out of his Irish tweed cap. Exercise racing, gambling, disappointment. riders, hotwalkers, grooms, the Two Labrador Retrievers, Babsie and blacksmith, the feed man, all in with Puddles, wagged their tails, ignorant a chance, the closest they’d ever get of my dismay, my disgust. to a Derby winner. Five bucks a “This one’s for Mom,” I said, horse. Dad always spotted me the reaching back into the hat. money and I always drew for my Run Dusty Run. mom, distracted, and my sister, Second choice. Trained by Smiley Photo © by Vicky Moon disinterested. Adams, the seven-time winner had a Sean Clancy The folded slips of paper swam shot if Seattle Slew stumbled. around as my dad shook his hat from the tack room “This one’s for Sheila.” at Brandywine Stable, the private training facility And there it was, scratched across a slip of paper at Delaware Park. My dad’s cursive scrawl of each and etched into my soul. Derby starter was on each slip, some even spelled Slew. correctly. There was one slip you wanted in 1977. I looked at dad. Only he and I would ever know. Seattle Slew. Undefeated. The odds-on favorite. A “That was mine…that was mine…that was bona fide superstar. mine. Come on, Dad. Please, Dad. Sheila’s sleep“Is he still in there?” I asked Dad. ing. She doesn’t even know who Seattle Slew is, He nodded, smiled, an affirmation of possibility. I she’ll never know…” knew I would find Seattle Slew in the confetti of hope. Dad didn’t budge, standing his ground, another “This one’s for me, Dad.” lesson delivered with a father’s decisiveness. I was I reached in, fished through the slips of paper as if mad at him and proud of him all at the same time. By Sean Clancy

Crestfallen, I shuffled back to the house, Babsie and Puddles keeping their distance. “Sheila got Seattle Slew.” My mom smiled, “Good for Sheila.” Of course, Seattle Slew won the Derby, overcoming a bungling start, slicing into a stalking spot in a matter of strides and in the clear for good as the field went under the wire the first time. Slew’s trainer, the late Billy Turner, a former steeplechase jockey, had called his jockey, Jean Cruguet, a “cold competitor” before the race. Cruguet was ice in a cauldron. The “alleged superhorse” as Howard Cosell put it before the race, emphatically became the superhorse, tacking on the Preakness and Belmont Stakes to win the Triple Crown five weeks later. The $17,000 freak, the first undefeated winner of the world’s most famous race. Run Dusty Run closed ground but chased in vain, a gallant second. Flag Officer got hot and dirty, finishing 10th. Sheila pocketed $75. How long did it take for me to get over it? I’ll let you know. And now here we are, 45 years after Seattle Slew (and Sheila) took the money. I’ve watched every Derby since, from the confident Affirmed to the confounding Medina Spirit, a victory that is still in question after a failed drug test. I have yet to win the hat pool. This year, we’ll watch the Derby at Hill School’s 45th annual auction, “A Day at the Races.” Perhaps, they’ll have a hat pool. Don’t tell Sheila.

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

PROPERTY Writes

All is Definitely More Than Well at

All’s Well Farm

he 88-acre All’s Well Farm in Marshall, Virginia really does have it all. Its Neoclassical slate roof main house was built in 1965 but has been completely updated and expanded by the current owner.

The home has the potential for six bedrooms, with five full and two half baths, five fireplaces, high ceilings, large proportioned rooms, a gourmet kitchen and a primary bedroom suite with spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The 10-stall barn and attached indoor arena was designed by renowned architect John Blackburn.

There’s a magnificent formal garden and a gorgeous outdoor patio, not to mention a pool and two-level pool house that includes a fully equipped gym, two bathrooms, shower and kitchenette. If you prefer your workouts on horseback, all is very well with a 10-matted-stall barn and attached indoor arena that was designed by renowned equine architect John Blackburn. Four of the stalls have run outs, and the facility includes a tack room, storage room, heated feed room with sink and cabinetry, and radiant heating.

The two-level pool house includes a fully equipped exercise room and an upstairs kitchenette.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

The expansive living room has a coffered ceiling, French does and a wood-burning fire place.

The main level office has cherry floors, paneling, and bookshelves and a wet bar.

The kitchen has Clive Christian cabinets, granite counters and a gas fireplace.

The dining room features de Gourney chinoiserie wallpaper and a walnut wide plank floor.

The view from the patio. The 60 by 20 meter indoor arena features an Olympic-sized dressage ring and wax-coated sand footing so there’s never a need to water. The viewing room has a kitchenette with soapstone counters and a full-size refrigerator and freezer. There’s also a tack cleaning station with storage, a washer and dryer, and a half bath. Its 24 glass garage doors lift simultaneously. The property has a greenhouse and raised beds, 11 paddocks and a wide variety of peach, pear, apple and plums trees all around. On this spectacular farm, all really is well.

The spectacular formal garden.

ALL’S WELL FARM MARSHALL, VA. Sheridan-MacMahon Realtors Middleburg, VA. Price: $7.1 million Listing Agent: Paul MacMahon 703-609-1905

Country ZEST & Style | Spring 2022

LETTER from PARIS

Out of Water, Out of Luck words) to give the staff a head start for home.

By John Sherman

have on my office wall a list of signatories petitioning a water system for Paris some time during the Depression, asking for a dollar a month to repay the hookup charge. Eventually, a well was drilled and the water was pumped into a reservoir above the village and fed down by gravity. When we opened the Ashby Inn in 1984, “febrile” was a euphemism for water delivery. Depending on your place on the street, a good shower was a prayer, never mind a commercial dishwasher. It was our first Virginia winter to face the hated weather reports. We despised them. Even the slightest warning of snow or one of our most feared, “wintery mix,” would start the cancellations. “We understand, but the news is calling for, like, two in ten chance of iffy weather. So you might reconsider. Well, we hope to see you again soon,” we replied before the expletive. Particularly galling, was the guess that many of our clients were simply hesitant about forcing their “off road” Range Rovers and Porsches from the warmth of their heated garages—-and into two inches of snow.

One particularly grey February afternoon, the snow was following the ominous weather warnings. In an ironic reversal, we began calling reservation numbers and explaining that we were shutting down for the evening. We warded off all but about twelve coming to dinner. Efforts to contact overnight guests were much less successful. They arrived, stomping their feet, ecstatic about being snowed in at a country inn. We put on a good face and got them into their rooms with logs laid for a fire. By that time, about four inches had fallen. Those dinner guests who pressed on to Paris were advised that, because of the rapid accumulation, the menu would be abbreviated—along with the appeal to stuff it down quickly (although not in those

An hour into service, the place went dark. First time, ever. A fallen tree on the mountain. Normally unprepared for any eventuality, we managed to muster a few flashlights for the kitchen where gas flames burned. The desserts were lined up by a woman with a flashlight clenched in her teeth. The chef and sous chef worked by the glow from the Viking range. They were pounding out the entrees. Some, like many of the desserts, were misdirected. There would be no doovers. Diners with late reservations were turned away. (Forget the innkeepers’ mantra that “all are welcome.”) There was no sense of urgency in the dining rooms, as each table had a small oil lantern. I recall my rising dread as the small flames seemed to prolong the feeling of intimacy and adventure. Gone was any way to print up dinner checks. We could run the credit cards by hand under flashlight, but it demanded some dexterity—and took forever. Rather than make them wait, as the snow piled up, we gave them a business card with instructions to call back for their bottom lines the following day. They all did. “We have no water,” came a shout from the kitchen. The overnight guests. No water. One flush. I can’t remember who had the idea, but quickly, the kitchen staff was sent into the night with two 60-quart stock (as in chicken) pots and a couple of shovels. The pots, up to the brim, were carried back and set on the burners to melt. The sixty quarts of snow ended up as about three quarts of water. So back into the night.

I was the only one in the village, when the lights went out, who didn’t rush to fill their bathtubs with the last of the water running its course through Paris. I don’t recall there being any sense of sharing between neighbors. The house at the top of the village got the most water, as it gradually ran out before the last house. Of course. How dumb of us. Instruct guests to immediately fill their tubs. Took a couple of days before my bitterness bled out. P.S.

A couple of summers later, I was checking in an elderly couple. I thought I’d seen her before. They were out for a friend’s birthday. It was a bad water weekend. I explained our dilemma of tapering supply and asked them to try to conserve as much as possible. The woman, in her 70s, laughed and explained that she grew up on a ranch in southern Arizona where water was the essential currency. She shrugged her shoulders and told me they were just fine with the situation. As I closed the door, it struck me that I had been talking water with Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. I drew breakfast service the next morning—a job I hated. Early morning smiles came hard. Her Honor and her husband showed up for breakfast a half hour early. It was just the two of us, as her husband remained silent, obviously ailing.

Finally, we had melted enough to fill individual sauce pans, allowing each guest an extra flush.

We soon established that she and my father both grew up in southern Arizona. He in Bisbee, a mining town on the Mexican border. We discovered our mutual passion for fly fishing. What impressed me most was her curiosity—about the inn, about the Civil War, about fox hunting. I was tempted to ask her about the court. But didn’t.

The next morning, I was recounting our travails to a neighbor and cursing the water system. He seemed nonplussed. Turns out

My appeals for a backup generator for the well finally was granted.

P.P.S.

MIDDLEBURG SUSTAINABLE COMMITTEE| Spring 2022

MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

S I M P LY B E T T E R .

152+/- glorious acres

33846 FOXLEASE LN | UPPERVILLE

19492 SHELBURNE GLEBE RD | LEESBURG

$9,500,000 | Magniﬁcent Foxlease Farm on 152+/- glorious acres* in Hunt Country is a one-of-a-kind equestrian facility: 2 horse barns (12 stalls / 17 stalls), 3 run-in sheds, machine shed, hay barn, riding ring, multiple fenced paddocks, 2 silos, rolling hills and trails to ride out. Beautiful stone center building added to the 19th-century home.

$5,200,000 | This tranquil 229.52+/- acres estate of signiﬁcant historic importance oﬀers a main house, guest house, and several out buildings in an 18th century setting. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Gilead, the property overlooks 35 acre Oliver Lake to the east, and has broad views to the west of the Blue Ridge. Add’l acreage available upon request.

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

*The final acreage is subject to pending boundary line adjustment.

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

40213 DOE RUN LN | PAEONIAN SPRINGS

36933 & 36939 CHARLES TOWN PIKE | HILLSBORO

$2,499,999 | This 6 bedroom, 6-full bath & 2-half bath, 6,766 sqft contemporary farmhouse-style compound of 3 buildings, including a main house, guest house, guest tower and detached garage is located on 17+/- acres near Rt 7 & 9 with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and woods. The property was fully renovated between 2014 & 2020.

$1,300,000 | A unique commercial and residential oﬀering, the Hill Tom Market and adjacent stone building, located in the heart of Hillsboro on route 9 are now available for sale! The stone building includes a great room/reception room, family room, 2 kitchens, 6 bedrooms or oﬃces, and 2 full bathrooms. Renovations to the stone building in 2021.

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Middleburg Brokerages 2022 CLOSED TRANSACTIONS MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE LOOKING FOR LAND? VISIT BIT.LY/MIDDLEBURGLAND

SHERIDAN-MACMAHON THOMAS & TALBOT WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES HUNT COUNTRY SOTHEBY’S MCENEARNEY ASSOCIATES, INC. LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE, INC. *Statistics taken from BrightMLS 1/1/2022 - 3/14/2022. Transaction totals based on Middleburg oﬃce locations only.

S I M P LY B E T T E R . | M I D D L E B U R G R E A L E S TAT E . C O M MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, WINCHESTER & CHARLES TOWN | CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 LICENSED IN VA + WV + MD | VA PRINCIPAL BROKER, PETER PEJACSEVICH | WV + MD PRINCIPAL BROKER, JOSH BEALL

Here's to a marvelous way of life LD

Llewellyn

Claytonville

260 acres $5,500,000 Steeped in history and features a stunning first floor primary suite, grand rooms, chef’s kitchen & wonderful porches. Also: guest cottage, 2 tenant houses, machine shop with 2 BR apartment, barns and fenced fields. Easement potential.

102+ acres $4,600,000 Boyce – This exquisite Country Estate is surrounded by some of the finest estates in Clarke Co. and enjoys stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. Designed for elegant living and grand entertaining. Protected by a VOF Easement.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Photo Credit: Gomer Pyles

ER ACT D R UNNT CO

Legacy Farm

Willwyn Farm

Chilly Bleak

Swains Mountain Farm

450 acres $4,500,000 Stretching from 5 Points Rd in the Plains, to Rectortown and Frogtown Roads in Marshall. Protected by an Easement with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. Located in Prime Orange County Hunt Territory, a most prestigious location.

37 acres $3,495,000 Purcellville – Spectacular horse facility with 2 barns, indoor and outdoor arenas, paddocks and ride out. Rolling pastures are anchored by a meticulously restored 1700’s stone main house with a log guest house on 2 parcels. Fios internet.

152 acres $3,400,000 Marshall – Open, gently rolling pastures and fields in prime Orange County Hunt Territory. Historic home dates to 1820. 5 BR / 5 BA with stone terrace and pool. Two Stables - 15 stalls and 6 stalls, Kraft Walker, 8 paddocks, 6 fields, 3 cottages.

164 acres $2,695,000 Spectacular mountain views! 4 BR / 5.5 BA fully restored estate 3 miles from Marshall and rte. 66. Wraparound porch provides the perfect setting to enjoy unparalleled views. In 6 parcels, 32 acres of fenced pasture, conservation potential.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Isabella Wolf | 703-338-7452

D VEE O PR RIC IM P

ER ACT D R UNNT O C

Lucky Hit

Worth The Wait

R CT DE RA N U NT CO

W NE

5194 Leeds Manor Rd.

Tanager Place

84+ acres $2,500,000 White Post – Lucky Hit is one of the oldest of the important houses in historic Clarke County. Built in 1791 it is located south of Route 50 in a beautiful area of the county, surrounded by large farms, across from the 400 acre State Arboretum of Viginia.

50 acres $2,289,000 Marshall – Virginia’s horse and wine country w/ mountain, lake and pastoral views. Custom-built home has 5 BRs / 4.5 BAs. High ceilings; HW flooring; 4 fireplaces. Fenced, mature pasture for horses. New 45’ x 70’ equip. building.

2 acres $849,000 Hume – New 3 level home, cleared and fenced with spectacular Big Cobbler Mountain Views. Open design allows for multiple uses for main level rooms. Upper-level features 3 BRs, laundry and bonus room. Finished walk-out lower level.

5.99 acres $749,000 Parcel offers amazing views and is located in a highly sought after area. Plenty of privacy while also being conveniently located to Leesburg, Rt. 267 and Rt. 15. Not in HOA. Water source, Public water available. Soil work has been completed.

Cary Embury | 540-533-0106

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

Rebecca Poston | 540-771-7520

Will Driskill | 540-454-7522

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations 2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

Country ZEST & Style Spring 2022 Edition

Articles inside

LETTER from PARIS: Out of Water, Out of Luck

PROPERTY Writes: All is Definitely More Than Well at All’s Well Farm

CUP of COFFEE Everyone Into the Pool With a Superhorse

A Versatile Virtuoso Finds a Home in the Piedmont

Falling in Love with Middleburg, and Each Other

OUT & ABOUT

The Wonder Women of Middleburg’s Safeway Pharmacy

Tip Toe Through The Tulips

White Post: THE TINY VILLAGE OF WHITE POST HAS A HISTORIC CLAIM TO FAME

For Joey and Kristi Snider, A Move To Marshall

In Willisville, Two Sisters Acting on Their Dreams

A Local Banker Bonds With Her Butterflies

MODERN FINANCE Slava Ukraini: A Bitcoin Battle Cry

Homes for the Hardworking

Legendary Lola is a Therapy Hearthrob

A Determined, Designing Woman

The Virginia Steeplechase Awards

COLONIAL DOWNS

Land Trust of Virginia Awarded New Grant

Joe May: It’s About Patents and Politics

At Home or Abroad, Painting Is Her Passion

The “Olde Pro” is a Millwood Classic

Wakefield Celebrates New Performing Arts Center

Carry Me BACK: Coming Out, Then Going Off the Rails

Modern Mercantile: Mesmerizing Mix of Marvelous Merchandise

Finding His Voice

Plenty of Poker Faces in Aldie

Jack Russell Writes a Book Called Fox World

Booked UP

Berryville’s Homespun Is All About “Down on the Farm”

Piedmont’s Heritage Beckons New Executive Director

Christ’s Chapel: Mission Accomplished

Tales From THE HUNT FIELD: Cutting Back on the Yakkety Yak

The Silver Tones Just Keep Swinging

Donation from Betsee Parker Completes A Set of Custis Silver At Mount Vernon

Beef, Produce and So Much More

Running and Jumping and a Sip of The Widow