Invest in yourself, Not your house Cauliflower Dreaming...On a winter’s day A Howlin’ good time in Williamsburg
Romancing
Stone
the
Local carver Gary Colson coaxes beauty from a block of Indiana Limestone
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JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2009
www.VaNeighbors.com
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Contents
38 Romancing The Stone
S culptor Gary Colson’s latest commission, a 10½ foot outdoor totem for the Outer Banks Master Gardeners, dominates his backyard studio space where a writhing water snake, a soaring osprey and sea oats swaying in an impossible ocean breeze are beginning to emerge from four two and a half ton slabs of Indiana limestone.
Your ideas are important to us, so if you’d like to recommend a story or send an event for Out&About, drop us a line at:
44 Standing Tall: Virginia’s Oldest Residents
N oted garden writer Nancy Ross Hugo talks about her stunning collaboration with Jeff Kirwan and Robert Llewellyn to research, locate, and photograph Virginia’s most remarkable trees.
FrontPorch 13 T rends
Riding the rails with the RMRC.
14 H ISTORY
George celebrates his birthday.
16 F INANCE
Home is where your heart should be, not your extra cash.
18 P ROFILE
Rebecca Gilmore Coleman talks about her unique heritage.
24 t ravel
Local B&Bs provide an atmosphere of warmth and coziness.
26 hom ekeeping
High-tech devices that ease our minds.
26 H OMEGROWN
Connecting local farmers with local consumers.
26 are we there yet?
Pack up the family and head to Williamsburg for a howlin’ good time.
Virginia Neighbors 8418 Pathfinder’s Court Spotsylvania, VA 22553 Or, email us at: editor@willowpub.com
Applause 53 M USIC
Third Stream Giants play that funky music.
56 B est bites
Kybecca Wine Bar
Out&About 59 Nunsense at the Riverside;
Valentine Bash at the Fredericksburg Hospitality House; Mardi Gras at Horton Vineyards; and much more.
20 F LASHBACK
Cul-de-sac
BackYard 23 C OME & GET IT
« “The Road To Salivation”
Taking a new look at an old town.
Tasty little morsels of love and frosting.
64 The Great Train Race.
begins January 22. See page 59.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 7
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 9
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Proud Member of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce
Your Magazine for the Fredericksburg Region
Co-Publisher / Editor Kendall Childress Co-Publisher / Creative director Don Saucier Graphic Designers Adam Desio Jane Welihozkiy Contributing Writers Nicholas Addison Thomas Lisa Reagan David R. Sillaman Jacoby Smith Steve Lane Contributing Photographers Jamie Haverkamp Robert Llewellyn Advertising and Circulation Director Gerald Childress
F R O M T H E P U B L I S H ERS
Everyone wants to hear some good news these days
A
s our local area continues lightening quick growth, our world situation becomes more intense, and our daily lives threaten to run roughshod over us, it is easy to become overwhelmed... even a little cynical at times. In the midst of such local and global change, however, our need to connect with one another, both on a personal and community level remains unchanged. Perhaps this is true now more than ever. Welcome to Virginia Neighbors magazine. Our goal is to bring you inspiring stories about local people and organizations, highlights of our beautiful region, and recognition of the many hometown businesses that contribute to our daily lives. This premier issue is filled with lots of great stuff, including a fascinating look at sculptor Gary Colson’s latest commission and his quest to preserve the stone carvers profession. Nancy Ross Hugo took four years and 20,000 miles to bring us her story, a beautiful and insightful look at Virginia’s remarkable trees. It’s a unique view of the Old Dominion’s cultural history through the eyes of these silent sentinels. Plus, of course we’ve got a delicious Valentine cupcake recipe— the perfect way to anyone’s heart. Plus, a look back at Fredericksburg that shows just how much and how little this charming city has changed. Plus, a one-tank vacation to Williamsburg’s Great Wolf Lodge. Plus, a little financial advice that just may add some coin to your pocket. Plus, a delicious visit to Kybecca’s new wine bar. Anyway, it’s an outstanding first issue. So find a comfortable spot in your home and relax with Virginia Neighbors. You’ll soon come to realize the world is still a place of “good neighbors”.
8418 Pathfinder’s Court Spotsylvania, VA 22553 540-548-0555 To subscribe visit:
www.VaNeighbors.com E-mail: editor@vaneighbors.com
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 11
NEWS | HISTORY | BUSINESS | TRENDS | PEOPLE
FrontPorch
T RENDS
ALL ABOARD Some people collect basketball cards, marbles or even stamps. For the members of the Rappahannock Model Railway Club (RMRC), their passion for all things trains is more than just a passing hobby: it’s a way of life.
The RMRC is a non-profit organization that was started 10 years ago by numerous
O-gauge (the most popular toy train) enthusiasts who were looking for a place to share their hobby. A suitable location was eventually found in the region, and since then, the club has expanded in both membership and layout size. Along the way, they’ve captured the interest and excitement of many local train enthusiasts, and
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 13
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ALL ABOARD continued _____________________________________ they continually encourage everyone interested in the hobby to join in on the fun.
The club works hard to keep the tradi-
Happy
tion of model railroading alive. So much so that each club member considers them-
Birthday
selves true ambassadors of one of the old-
To Me...
est and most treasured clubs in existence, and they work diligently to promote the
Happy
joy of model railroading in and around the community. In fact, the club participates in
Birthday
numerous charitable and community func-
To Me...
tions throughout the year, such as model train shows and sales, offering glimpses into the exciting aspects of their hobby. On occasion, the club also brings youth groups in to watch trains run and to teach them about the magic of model railroading.
Today, the club operates a multi-
level layout at its clubhouse, located on 406H Hudgins Road in Fredericksburg. If you happen to find yourself in the club’s headquarters, you will notice the steady vibration and humming of numerous moving model trains. Exquisite trains of all eras and manufacturers are represented at the clubhouse’s two levels, many of which belong to the members and the club as a whole. The club also has many operating accessories that are independently controlled, and switches are thrown by electric switch machines, providing a glimpse into the mechanics of model railroading.
If you’re interested in joining the club,
or if you’d like to learn more about what they have to offer, monthly meetings are held on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 7 p.m. at the Hudgins Road Clubhouse. To get an introspective look at what membership entails, get there early and mingle with the members. The meetings and annual memberships are offered to children and adults of all ages. Attend an upcoming meeting and check out a hobby fueled by passion and precision!
To see what the world of model rail-
roading has to offer, call 540.891.1914 or visit the club’s Web site at www.rmrrclub. org. You’ll find information on upcoming events, membership costs and other pertinent information online. — Nicholas Addison Thomas
14 www.VaNeighbors.com
HISTORY
Just Whose Birthday Is It?
W
ashington’s Birthday is the official name designated to what many of us know as President’s Day. During the month of February the birthday of two of our greatest presidents takes place: George Washington, born on February 22, and Abraham Lincoln, born on February 12. However, Washington’s birthday has been publicly celebrated since he was in office (from 1789-1797) before Lincoln was even born (1809.) Much of the debate over the name of the holiday springs from the fact that individual states can celebrate their own holidays and many of them chose to also honor Lincoln, calling the celebration President’s Day. In 1968, the term President’s Day came up for legal consideration in Congress but was shot down. Again, in the 1980’s, there was a
resurgence of the term with advertisers, which solidified the holiday name.
Virginia, the Mother of Presidents Virginia earned the nickname, “Mother of Presidents,” for good reason. The Old Dominion gave birth to eight men who became the President of the United States before 1850. The Presidents born in Virginia were: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, William Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor and Woodrow Wilson. Interestingly enough, six Presidents’ wives were born in Virginia: Martha Washington, Martha Jefferson, Rachel Jackson, Letitia Tyler, Ellen Arthur, Edith Wilson. As of today, seven Presidents are buried in Virginia: Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, Tyler, Taft and Kennedy.
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FINANCE
Invest In Yourself, Not Your House Why prepaying your mortgage may not be such a great idea
T
he longer you own your home, the less likely it is that mortgage prepayment is the better choice. Home may be where the heart is, but it may not be the best place to house money. In a March 2008 Consumer Report study titled “Your Mortgage: It rarely pays to prepay” this was the conclusion. Is it better for a person who has an extra $100 a month to pay down a mortgage or invest in their future and play the stock market? To answer this, consumer reports researchers created a computer model to compare prepaying a mortgage with investing in a Standard and Poor’s 500 Index mutual fund in the following situation: A person buying an average-priced home with 20 percent down and a 30 year fixed rate mortgage at 132 different points between January 1986 and December 1996 sells that home 10, 15, or 20 years later at the prevailing U.S. average price. To make the exercise more realistic, the Consumer Reports statisticians figured that the borrower refinanced to a 15 or 30 year mortgage when rates went below a certain a point to make the monthly payments more cost effective. This became the base numbers for a second and third set of numbers that figured the same scenarios, but with an additional $100 either added to the monthly mortgage payment or put into no-load, low expense Vanguard 500 Index funds. The result? The investment almost always won, and in the case of long-term homeownership, some of the differences were dramatic. The 10-year scenarios averaged a 10,058 gain for the monthly $100 investment into the mutual fund compared to that of only prepaying the mortgage 16 www.VaNeighbors.com
by $4,051. This return is a 50% better return for your dollar then prepaying the mortgage. So the longer you own your home, the less likely it is that mortgage prepayment will be the better choice. The primary reason for the earning gap was the discrepancy in average home appreciation over time. While home prices have risen as much as 17 percent in a single year, over the last 43 years the averages still hover close to the 6.5 percent. The stock market on the other hand has averaged better than 8 percent even taking into account some dramatic stock-specific swings. Also consider the fact that your investment account is earning compound interest and your home appreciation is not. Your investment account is liquid to you, your home equity is not. Your investment account has a marginal degree of security whereas your home equity has absolutely no security because you can’t control the growth or loss of home appreciation or depreciation. In light of these results, why do so many Americans still misallocate their hard-earned money? The psychological benefits of being mortgage free, including the emotional desire to own a home outright along with self- reported debt aversion and risk aversion explain to some extent the preference for paying off debt obligations early rather than receive the tax arbitrage and investment growth, safety and liquidity from strategically using debt as a tool to build wealth. The bottom line, although there are exceptions, chances are you’ll be better off putting extra money into a good mutual fund, especially during times like we are facing, than prepaying your mortgage. —David R. Sillaman cmps, cmp, cma, afc
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FrontPorch
The 1870 George Gilmore cabin and his descendent Rebecca Gilmore Coleman
Photo courtesy of The Montpelier Foundation
PROFILE
The Art Of Ancestry One woman’s search for her family history leads to a Montpelier reunion
F
or scholars and historians, the need to create a whole picture of American history includes striving to grasp the conflict inherent in one of the main writers of the Constitution, James Madison, and an accurate portrayal of his, and America’s, slave-dependent past. This rigorous academic task is given to archeologists, historians and scholars working at Montpelier, Madison’s plantation in Orange County. Montpelier was not just home to the Madison family, but also to hundreds of enslaved African Americans. “The recognition of the importance of the contributions made by all of those who helped shape Montpelier into the historical legacy that it is today is a critical aspect of the presentation of President James Madison’s plantation,” states Montpelier’s Web site. Key to blazing a trail for discussion and understanding are the contributions of living slave descendents, such as Rebecca Gilmore Coleman. Coleman traces her lineage to George Gilmore, born a slave in 1810 at Montpelier during James Madison’s years as president. Gilmore remained a slave until the Civil War. In 1870 he built a cabin, and in 1901, he bought it and 16 acres from Madison’s descendent. Virginia Neighbors sat down with Rebecca Gilmore Coleman and asked her about discovering her family’s heritage, her thoughts on Black History Month and her vision for making whole the history of our great nation. VN: W hat were you told about your family
history growing up?
RGC: My family did not talk to me about their heritage as I was growing up. My father’s mother, and my grandmother, 18 www.VaNeighbors.com
died when I was around seven years old. His father died before I was born. It was after I was married and had two children of my own that I began to question my father about his parents and his grandparents. This was in the early 70’s after Alex Haley’s Roots min-series was televised. One day my father drove me past the cabin located on Route 20 South, across from James Madison’s Montpelier. He pointed and said, “I was born in that cabin on the second floor.” I had passed that Cabin many times over the years and never dreamed of my connection to it. His father, Philip, was the son of George and Polly Gilmore. George Gilmore built the cabin around 1872. A few years later my father died. Now I wished that I had questioned him more intensively about our family history. I have been searching my family’s roots over the years and have learned quite a bit about them. Oral history, deeds, death records, census records, and more have helped me to put together bits and pieces of my family history. I have found relatives who live right here in Orange County. VN: How did your family view and present their
heritage to you, themselves and others?
RGC: My mother and father were always kind to others in the community, helping where they could when needed. They had both black and white friends who would visit our home often. In those days it was only when we went outside of our home that we experienced segregation. It was places like the schools, restaurants, train and bus stations that our parents protected us from. They knew that we were not welcome in these places, so they never put us in the position to be offended by the white owners.
My brothers, sisters and I were never taught to hate anyone by our parents. And I think that you would have found that this was true in most AfricanAmerican homes. If you were not from the South, it would be hard to understand how white and blacks lived together. Some might say that we had/have this strange relationship in spite of segregation. I think this might be true of the many different races and nationalities throughout the world. We all must learn how to respect and tolerate each other’s differences. There is only one race in this world and that is the “human race.”
David Smith Office: 540-373-9300 x 115 Cell: 540-273-0129 davidsmith@mris.com www.DavidSellsVirginia.com www.averyhess.com
VN: W hat was your vision when you
organized the Slave Descendents Reunion?
RGC: In helping to organize the Slave Descendents Reunion I visualized that there would be a strong awakening of a desire to learn as much as possible about the heritage of the attendees’ ancestors who lived and died at James Madison’s Montpelier. We wanted to encourage the attendees to share their families’ history with us, to help us understand why some families left Orange County and why others stayed. We wanted to build a database so that we could start researching the many families who wanted to share their family ties with us. To help do this we had seminars on techniques and methods to trace their family roots through genealogical research, oral histories and DNA samples. In this way the AfricanAmerican history at Montpelier can be told accurately and authentically. VN: H ow do you see the history of slavery
in America being best preserved and presented to future generations?
RGC: For too long, slavery and all of its horrendous acts have been left out of our history in this country. It is a part of America’s history; it must be inclusive. You cannot talk about one without the other. We must tell the whole story. We have an opportunity to educate others about this country’s history and about its entire people. The Africans that were brought to this country were a strong and resilient people. African-Americans have a great legacy; there is a lot to be proud of. They were inventors as well as builders. They helped to make this country what it is today. While Madison was writing the Constitution, it was the slaves who worked and ran the plantation. They provided the means for the founding fathers to be free to organize and run the country. These are the truths that future generations should learn. d
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 19
FrontPorch
FLASHBACK
Fredericksburg, Then And Now Chronicling how much has changed and how much has stayed the same
W
hether you’re a long-time Fredericksburg history,” said Uebelhor. “I also found interesting connecresident or you just recently moved to the tions to developments in transportation, tourism and the area, you’ll no doubt appreciate the exten- local economy. I think visitors to this exhibition will see the sive history and architectural elegance the city’s past and present from a new perspective.” historic community offers. To help promote the history The extensive exhibit focuses on local, well-known and beauty of the region, the Fredericksburg Area Museum historic sites, as well as lesser-known area businesses from the height of Fredericksburg’s and Cultural Center is offerindustrial era. Through phoing glimpses into the contrasts tographs and a discussion between Fredericksburg then of tourism and preservation and now. issues, as well as a planned The exhibit, aptly titled Spring 2009 lecture series, Fredericksburg Then and Now, visitors are able to see what features more than two dozen has changed, what has stayed images of the region from the same, what has been lost the turn of the 20th century, and why. paired with current views Uebelhor, who has been painstakingly shot from the with the museum since 2005, exact same locations by the holds a degree in history from museum’s assistant curator, Modern day Caroline Street (above) is filled with antiques Mary Washington College and Christopher Uebelhor. stores and restaurants. In 1903, this same area (below) is an avid photographer. His Located in the recently provided for the everyday needs of Fredericksburg residents photographs have appeared in re-opened Town Hall/Market within strolling distance. Two of these businesses, Goolrick’s The New Yorker and Civil War House building in downtown Drugstore and Crismond’s shoe store are still serving Times. Fredericksburg Then Fredericksburg, the exhibit customers today. Photos courtesy of Historic Fredericksburg Foundation Inc. and Now represents his first showcases works from the major curatorial project. museum’s vast collection of Visitors to the exhibit will photographs—many of which also have the opportunity to have never been seen by the see the new changes to the public—as well as those on Town Hall, home to Frederloan from private collectors. icksburg’s government from While the exhibit seeks to 1817 to 1982. During the weeks chronicle the contrasts and prior to the exhibition openchanges in Fredericksburg’s ing, the Museum Store moved landscape over time, the most across the street into the new striking feature of the exhibit Catherine W. Jones McKann might be how little the buildCenter while the space it had ings themselves have changed and how they are still so recognizable. “The more things occupied since 1988 underwent renovations. change, the more they stay the same,” said Uebelhor, minus The Fredericksburg Then and Now exhibit will run through September 2009. To learn more, visit the museum’s the muddy streets and horse-drawn buggies. “In photographing current views and researching for Web site at www.famcc.org, or call 540.371.3037 for more this exhibit, I thought a lot about what we choose to pre- information. —Lisa Reagan serve and why, and how this relates to the way we are taught 20 www.VaNeighbors.com
Wayne Gootee no longer has to sneak into the high school gym to work out with the equipment. Now he owns the gym! “Yes, I was that kid at 10 years old who would sneak into the gym and sometimes get chased out,” says Gootee. “I just loved it there. It was my favorite place to be. I always knew that was where I would ultimately end up.” For the past twenty years, Gootee has created his dream gym with Bodyworks, a State-of-the-Art fitness center in downtown Fredericksburg. During this time, Gootee, the 1989 Virginia Drug-free Body Building Champion, has witnessed the work-out scene “go from dumb bells to bikes.” “Bodybuilding has gone away in 20 years, even though it is the root of the fitness industry,” said Gootee. “In that time fitness goals have evolved. It used to be that we would have all body builders. Then we got down to one body builder and 10 people watching him. The body builder would do his thing, and attract his friends, but gym owners realized we needed to put in a treadmill and maybe this would also attract his friends wives.” “These days, there aren’t as many people getting built up, just the opposite, most want to get lean. At Bodyworks, they can even have a trainer.” These days, Bodyworks features the most current and state-of-the-art equipment, including Star Trac treadmills, recumbent bicycles, Precor cross-trainers, FreeMotion strength training equipment and Life Fitness ellipticals. Fitness classes have also progressed in the last two decades, notes Gootee. “Our most popular classes, yoga and pilates have really come about in the last 10 years. Before that was hi-impact aerobics and kick boxing…good but not for the average person.” “What a person coming to bodyworks will experience is that fitness and health are just a few steps away. It is an easy process. You don’t need to be overwhelmed by dumbbells and equipment,” said Gootee. “At Bodyworks, you can feel comfortable in the facility and with the people because we are a down home local club. Our instructors are friendly and know people come through the door not in great shape and need to be encouraged. You’ll feel welcome here.” JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 21
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HOME&GARDEN | TRAVEL | HEALTH | FOOD | FAMILY
BackYard
“It’s the Dolly Parton of cakes: a little bit tacky, but you love her.” Angie Mosier, Southern Foodways Alliance
COME & GET IT
Red velvet cake is classic Americana cooking with its roots in the south. Deliciously festive, moist, and flavorful, with maybe a hint of playful tackiness it’s a dessert that has gained newfound popularity in bakeries coast to coast. Adapted into little red cupcakes and topped with a dollop of cream cheese frosting, they make for a colorful and tasty Valentine’s Day dessert.
»
Photo courtesy of Ivonne Mellozzi, www.creampuffsinvenice.ca
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 23
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RED VELVET continued _____________________________________
Ingredients 1 1/2 cups of sugar 1/2 cup of butter, room temperature 2 eggs, room temperature 2 1/3 cups of cake flour 2 tablespoon of Dutch-processed cocoa powder 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1/2 teaspoon of salt 1 cup of buttermilk* 1 1/2 tablespoons of red food coloring 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1 teaspoon of distilled white vinegar Frosting ingredients 1/2 cup of butter, room temperature 8 oz of Philly cream cheese, room temperature 2 – 3 cups of powdered sugar 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
The Cupcakes 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Beat the butter and sugar in an electric mixer for 3 minutes on medium speed until light and fluffy. 2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until each is fully incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. 3. In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl whisk together the buttermilk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. 4. Add a fourth of the dry ingredients and mix, then add a third of the wet. Continue adding in a dry, wet, dry pattern, ending with the dry ingredients. 5. Scoop into cupcake papers, about 1/2 to 3/4 of the way full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Rotate the pan after the first 15 minutes of baking to ensure even baking. 6. Allow to cool for one minute in the pan then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Makes about 2 1/2 dozen cupcakes.
The Frosting 1. Cream the butter and cream cheese together, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing. 2. Add the vanilla extract and mix. 3. Add the powdered sugar, continually taste to get to desired sweetness. Pipe onto cooled cupcakes. — Recipe by Garrett McCord, republished with permission of SimplyRecipes.com
24 www.VaNeighbors.com
T R AV E L
B&B Bliss Planning for Romantic Getaways
F
orget about flowers. Just say no to the proverbial “dinner and a date.” This Valentine’s Day, give your significant other an experience he or she will never forget— treat them to a romantic night at one of Virginia’s historic bed and breakfast inns! Not sure where to go? Here’s a peek at some of the best bed and breakfasts in the region:
Holladay House If you’re looking for a bed and break-
fast inn that offers luxury accommodations in the wine country of central Virginia, look no further. The Holladay House, a 179-year-old landmark, embodies the historical romance of yesteryear with its lovely Federal style architecture and inviting ambience. Located a few blocks from Taylor Park, art galleries, antique stores and restaurants, the Holladay House provides a comfortable base from which to explore the beauty of Orange, Virginia. Tour the numerous local wineries, experience gourmet pleasures and re-live the past in fine style. For more information, or to make a reservation, visit www.holladayhousebandb.com. La Vista Plantation Located in the heart of Spotsylvania County’s countryside, just a few miles outside of Fredericksburg, this beautiful bed and breakfast was constructed in 1838. With a transitional classical-Greek revival frame edifice, La Vista Plantation offers guests a glimpse into historic Virginian culture. Not only does this inn have a beautiful, two-story front
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portico with fluted columns and gable-end ornaments, but its architectural design is emboldened with high ceilings, wide pine floors, acorn and oak moldings, and enough room for you and your loved one to snuggle. The past and the present walk together in this gorgeous inn. To learn more, or to make a reservation, visit www.lavistaplantation.com. Mayhurst Inn The Mayhurst Inn is a splendid bed and
breakfast in Orange, Virginia, and it is within easy driving distance of Charlottesville. If you’re looking for an inn that’s surrounded by Virginia history, this is it. This bed and breakfast is located among three presidential mansions, six Civil War battlefields, ten of Virginia’s finest wineries and is surrounded by more than 15 excellent restaurants. Simply put, Mayhurst is the perfect place for your vacation or getaway. Its scenic vistas and solitude, along with its magical history, will transport you away from the day-to-day stress of life and take you to a place where you’ll be pampered with southern hospitality. To learn more about Mayhurst’s amenities, or to make a reservation, visit www.mayhurstinn.com.
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The Richard Johnston Inn Located in the middle ofNextCare_QtrPage_4C_0109.indd 1 1/7/09 2:20:37 PM Old Towne Fredericksburg, The Richard Johnston Inn makes an ideal get away for Valentine’s Day. What better way to spend the holiday than to engage in local history? The Inn was constructed by John Taylow, an architect and one of the original signers of The Declaration of Independence. OUR HONORS INCLUDE In the 1800s it served as the "Best Jewelry Selection" "Best Jewelry Store" home of one of Fredericks"Simply the Best" "Best in the Burg" burg’s mayors and its nameDiamond Jewelry • 14K, 18K & Platinum Jewelry • China, Crystal & Silverware by Waterford, Orrefors, Portmeirion, Mottahedeh and more sake, Richard Johnston. The Area's Exclusive Dealer of Herend Handpainted Porcelain inn still reflects the charm Arthur Court Casual Serveware • Vera Bradley Bags Custom-made Jewelry—All Done on Premises, Jewelry Appraisals, Watch & Jewelry Repair and grace of a past era, while providing all of the amenities of today for the comfort of guests. Chosen in 2005 by Southern Living Readers Choice Awards as one of “The Best Bed & Breakfasts in The South,” it’s easy to see why this inn is set apart from all others. To learn more about the Richard Johnston Inn, or to make a reservation, visit www.therichardjohnstoninn.com. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary setting with Excellence Since 1928 numerous amenities, or a quieter location where you can talk 903 CAROLINE STREET • 540/373-9243 long into the night, you’ll find it in many of this region’s bed Open Monday–Saturday 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and breakfasts. After all, Virginia is for lovers. d th 00889CFF©FLS08
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 25
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HOMEKEEPING
Who’s That Knocking At My Door? Take action to protect your home and family
W
ouldn’t you like to be alerted if a car comes up in your driveway, your kids go inside your tool shed, intruders approach your front or backyard, someone enters your garage, visitors approach your front door, your parked boat or motor home as been invaded or your pets trample your flower garden? A Voice Alert Security system would solve all those issues in no time. Protecting your home and family should always be a primary goal and the smart homeowner will take every opportunity to secure themselves, before they feel threatened. So what’s the best way to do that? A home security system of any kind can help. Gone are the days when you have to sign up with a home security system company and pay a monthly monitoring fee for the rest of your life. If your budget is tight, there are other different options available. You can get the Mini Alert Alarm that uses passive infrared technology to protect a room from intruders. Producing an infrared triangle, the Mini Alert creates an unseen barrier that’s impossible to penetrate without setting off the alarm. It is battery operated and no wiring and can be easily moved to a new location. The Mace Window Alert is a 95 decibel glass breakage alarm that easily attaches to windows and is set off by vibrations if someone tries to break through. The Magnetic Door/ Window Alarm uses a magnetic affinity to initiate its 110 decibel siren. The base of the alarm is bolted to door or window frame, and the actuator is connected to the window or door. The alarm is acti-
26 www.VaNeighbors.com
vated by opening the door or window. The Mace Motion Alert is a passive infrared system that detects motion in any selected area. Compact and attractive, it mounts easily (vertically or horizontally) near any entry area and is battery operated, eliminating any need for wiring. Unit can be coded with a personal security code and can be set to utilize a two-tone entry chime, instead of the alarm sound. Make an intruder think there’s a live dog in your living room. An electronic barking dog home security alarm system does the trick. With his electronic radar eyes, the Electronic Watch Dog can “see” through thick doors, walls and glass. And once his cord is plugged in, he’ll stay on duty around the clock, indefinitely. The Electronic Watch Dog can protect homes, apartments, mobile homes, RV’s, public and private buildings of virtually every kind. When it comes to home security, you have many options to choose from. You may even want to choose a variety of methods and it shouldn’t cost a fortune; you can keep your family safe without breaking the bank. Do your homework and find the best system for your home security needs. You will be glad you did. —Steve Lane
Where do you go for practical marketing advice? Most business owners don’t have a seasoned advisor to help tackle marketing problems and discover new advertising opportunities. Willow Marketing Agency fills that void. We realize that advertising your product or service is just one important part of running a company. You have hundreds of issues that need your attention. Well, here is one worry we can take off your plate.
The American Mind & Body Foundation will be hosting the Happy Health New Year Seminar January 24th at Chancellor’s Village (12100 Chancellors Village Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22407). This seminar is free to the public and will run from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Kolache House Bakery will be providing free breakfast from 9:00 to 10:00. Activities for the kids, get your blood pressure checked, talk with local vendors. The seminar will consist of 3 workshops: Nutrition, Physical Fitness, and Mental Health. Space is limited to the first 100 registered guest. To register please visit www.americanmindandbody.org.
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HOMEGROWN
Cauliflower Dreaming...On A Winter’s Day The next best thing to growing it yourself: Connecting local farmers with local consumers
I
s the dead of winter too soon to start dreaming about those fresh heirloom tomatoes, leafy-green lettuce and crunchy radishes straight from the garden? Not if you want to have a farm-fresh bag of vegetables from your very own farmer this summer. While less-savvy shoppers will take their chances on farmers’ markets this coming season, serious food fans know now is the time to pursue local, organic produce through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. This ensures you’re getting the highest quality and most nutritious fruits and vegetables the spring and summer have to offer. CSAs have been cropping up in the US since the early 1980s when the idea was first imported from Europe. Since that time, CSAs have blossomed to estimates as high as 3,000 in the United States. With the typical super-market tomato traveling an average of 1,500 miles from the field to your plate, the cutting-edge, socio-economic CSA model is hailed as an answer and antidote to industrial agriculture, whose food safety issues and energy costs have made media headlines in the past year. When shopping for a CSA, customers will notice that no two CSAs are alike. A CSA incarnates according to the variables of the farm and personality of the farmer, but the main concept remains: a community of individuals, or
28 www.VaNeighbors.com
“subscribers” pledge support to a farm so the farmland becomes, either legally or spiritually, the community’s farm. The risks and benefits of food production are shared, as the farmer gets a guaranteed income from supporters and supporters get a weekly “share” of the farm’s harvest. The harvest can be vegetables, fruit, herbs, flowers, eggs, dairy products or grass-fed beef. Many of the CSAs are family farms and follow a “whole-farm” approach that does not use pesticides, herbicides or chemical fertilizers. In CSA theory, the more a farm embraces whole-farm, whole-budget support, the more it can focus on quality and reduce the risk of food waste or financial loss. Subscriptions for a season, around 20 weeks, usually run $300 to $600. In testament to the CSA movement’s momentum and popularity, a documentary showing the resurrection of the family farm through the CSA model, The Real Dirt on Farmer John, opened around the country to sold-out audiences last year. While the CSA concept continues to blaze trails across the US, for the past twelve years the Fredericksburg Area Community Supported Agriculture Program, FACSAP, an early pioneer of the movement, has been delivering weekly shares of the best local produce to its family of subscribers. FACSAP is unique as a CSA because it works as a “co-op” of six Virginia farms. Subscribers in the 2008 season found
produce in their weekly shares from Virginia Organic Cooperative, a certified organic farm in Warrenton; Canning Farm and Summerbeam, located in King George County; Rock Run Creek Farm in Fauquier County; Downtown Greens in Fredericksburg; and Mount Vernon Farm out of Sperryville, Virginia. All of the farms participating in the project are unique, but two, featured here in Virginia Neighbors, illustrate how disparate approaches result in shared success. At 12 years-old, Downtown Greens is a venerable 501(C)3 nonprofit located on two and a half city acres, while Virginia Organic Cooperative— a first year CSA and the “second career” of owner Peter Barthelson— is a typical family farm featuring chickens, dairy cows, greenhouses and “lots of tractors.” “The expense of the tractors alone is why I couldn’t do this as a kid,” said Barthelson. “Three years ago, I became a real farmer, but I have been gardening since I was a kid.” Barthelson’s first career with his company, Audio Video Systems, Inc., provided the means to “become a real farmer.” “Why am I doing this now? I have been a survivalist, a naturalist and into healthy food all my life,” said Barthelson. “I’ve always been a cook, and I enjoy cooking and producing my own food. So this has been a natural progression for me. I would recommend farming to anyone who is looking for a second career.” Barthelson sees more second-lifers getting into the act as food costs and safety issues escalate in the US, and as CSA programs offer options and opportunity for business models. “As we become aware of how expensive food is to produce and how far away it is coming from, we are also finding out that safety issues are common. The FDA must put out general warnings about contaminated produce like tomatoes and spinach because they honestly don’t know where they are coming from »
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CAULIFLOWER DREAMING continued ________________________________________
in our current system, so all of it gets recalled.” In addition to participating in FACSAP last summer, Virginia Organic Cooperative delivers to the Northern Virginia area. Barthelson’s progressive and ambitious farm model includes a Mercedes Sprinter refrigerated van with a GPS tracking system to deliver 180 shares a week to subscriber’s doors. “It is more environmentally friendly to go to them than to make 180 people come to us every week,” said Barthelson. The farm’s hopping this winter with the addition of seven Jersey milk cows, construction of a milking parlor and a cheese-aging room. Barthelson hopes to offer Certified Organic milk by June 2009. Subscribers will also have the option of ordering weekly eggs online. “CSA is a way for us to deal directly
with our customers. We really have to deal directly with them because our production costs are high,” said Barthelson. “I’ve spent two dollars for every one I’ve made, so I have to increase revenue by broadening product sales. Producing, picking and washing vegetables take a lot of time. The dairy is hopefully going to cover the labor costs and expenses each year. I was buying manure before I realized I would be better off buying the cow and getting the milk and manure.” Located three blocks from the train station at the corner of Dixon and Charles Streets in downtown Fredericksburg, Downtown Greens is a participant in the FACSAP and the organizer for the co-ops weekly pick-ups. With a dozen years under their belt, this savvy CSA knows the challenges of finding and training laborers for growing, which is one reason they became a 501(C) 3 nonprofit. The structure of the organization allows for the resident housing of work-
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ers and a business model that is dedicated to community garden education and innovations, and not high-profit margins. “I consider the CSA to be an attractive group of energetic eaters,” said Tom Miller, executive director for Downtown Greens. “Having a group of people that will pay me to eat my vegetables is great.” Like Barthelson, Miller has a “real” day job as an engineer for the Virginia Department of Transportation. But his love of gardening and sharing food with other enthusiasts helped him “create a fairly well defined program” so he can balance both worlds. And also like Barthelson, Miller is adamant that the CSA model be financially sustainable as well as environmentally sound. “It is important that CSAs make money. This frequently is underemphasized, but it is hard to make an argument for CSAs if they are not economically viable, as in a middle-class income, »
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CAULIFLOWER DREAMING continued ________________________________________
not poverty. There is an opportunity for growers to make money, it’s just a matter of negotiating skill and contracts,” said Miller. Downtown Greens’ mission is to be an “out-reach facility which stimulates personal and community growth by involving individuals in a community garden.” Education and empowerment of children is a special focus of the garden, with tasks geared to their abilities. Vegetables from the city garden are sold through the nonprofit’s CSA. “Why be a city farmer? There is no work in the country. I live in the city because this is where my day job is. I am here because by my nature I grow veggies. I am fortunate to have a large enough plot to grow here in the city,” said Miller. In addition to public education,
Downtown Greens sponsors a rollicking Down Home Ball every November and a Fork It Over festival every May that features live music, plant sales and a garden rummage sale. Their staff
is prepared to welcome volunteers on Saturday mornings. Want to be the first to sign-up for this year’s subscriber membership? For more information, visit Downtown
Greens at 206 Charles Street, Fredericksburg VA 22401. Staffed garden hours are open on Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 540.371.7315 or visit them online at www. downtowngreens.org. You’ll find the Virginia Organic Cooperative on the internet at www.virginiagreengrocer.com or call 540.347.4740. To find local CSAs and farms near you, visit www.localharvest.com. Looking for a second career as a farmer? Visit www.newfarm. org to learn about which colleges and universities are teaching sustainable agriculture as a vocation. For more information on the full-course professional growing program at J. Sargent Reynolds’s Goochland Campus, contact Cindy Conner at Sunfieldva@aol.com. —Lisa Reagan
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F A M I LY F U N
A Howlin’ Good Time! Making a splash at Williamsburg’s Great Wolf Lodge is fun for the entire family
T
hat old saying, “the boy who cried wolf!” has taken on an entirely new meaning, thanks to Great Wolf Lodge, a family-vacation destination located along the Virginia Peninsula. If you’re looking for an innovative log-cabin experience while making memories and saving money, look no further. Great Wolf Lodge offers everything you and your family needs to become happy campers. Located approximately three miles from Colonial Williamsburg, this outdoors-themed resort is set off by a beautiful backdrop of pines, giving it the look and feel of a log-cabin estate hidden in the Virginia wilderness. Four stories tall and exquisitely designed— several large, wooden wolfs welcome you at the entrance— Great Wolf boasts logsided suites, a massive indoor water park and an ambience that aptly captures the atmosphere of the Northwoods. While the exterior is boldly detailed with intricate designs reminiscent of outdoors living, the inside is just as elaborate. The interior décor offers guests a relaxing mix of nature and log cabin-inspired chic. Features include Native American accents, nature dioramas and unique artifacts that embody the outdoor-adventure experience. And that’s not all. The resort’s “living room” is filled with
34 www.VaNeighbors.com
comfortable, over-sized furniture, natural wood tables and chairs, and a massive stone fireplace that’ll keep you warm throughout the day. What garners the most attention, however, is the Great Clock Tower, a powerful beacon of beauty that chimes to life three times a day. The interior design of Great Wolf perfectly complements the dynamic, upscale motif of their reasonably priced suites— all 405 of them. The resort’s dedication to architectural excellence is apparent the second you enter one of the spacious rooms. To accommodate the needs of each and every guest, the resort offers 12 different room configurations, all equally stunning. Layouts range from open plans with shared bedrooms to divided areas for privacy. For families with younger children, there’s KidKamp™, Wolf Den™ and KidCabin®. One look at the suite stylings and you’ll understand why Great Wolf is considered one of the best vacation destinations in the state. When it comes to dining, Great Wolf outdoes the competition. Whatever your palette, you’re sure to find something savory in their rustic restaurants. There’s the casual, family atmosphere of Camp Critter Bar & Grille™ and The Loose Moose Cottage™, a gourmet food court offering a variety of delicious dishes. Guests can also indulge in one »
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will tip its water onto a roof, spraying the playful party beneath it. of their favorite foods at the on-site Once you’re done getting silly and Pizza Hut Express®, or they can satisfy slippery, you can make your way to their sweet tooth at Bear Claw Café™. the gr8_space Tech Center, an interacFor the busy parents who want to tive exhibit featuring computers with spend a quiet dinner together, teen-conscious Internet access, don’t worry—there are plenty of docking stations for ipods and nearby attractions to keep the mp3 players, and multiple gamyoung ones busy. Speaking of ing stations. This is the perfect attractions, it’s what Great Wolf place for those kids itching to does best. play Nintendo Wii or Guitar One of the resort’s most popHero! While they’re strumming ular attractions is its gigantic, along to the music, you can reindoor water park reserved exlax while enjoying some of the clusively for Great Wolf guests latest movies and music. It gets only. Located inside Bear Track better— there’s even a rock star gr8_space features computers with teen-conscious Internet Landing, the water park offers karaoke section. Nothing says access, docking stations for ipods and multiple gaming stations an extensive amount of wet and family vacation like a chance to wild options for the entire family. One spray stations—will prove to be an en- out-sing your siblings. If you’re worof their most prominent attractions is lightening (and wet!) experience. Just ried about what the kids can do at Fort Mackenzie, a four-story, interac- be careful: there’s a mammoth, 1,000- night, don’t be: There’s dedicated teen tive tree house/water fort that offers 12 gallon soaker bucket that sits at the time at the Tech Center. While you’re levels of fun for kids and adults alike. very top. When you least expect it, the relaxing, your kids can be educated and For the young ones, climbing up to warning bell will ring and that bucket entertained at the same time.
GREAT WOLF continued ________________________________________
the slides (with adult supervision, of course) is a fun way to get exercise and feel the coolness of the water. For older kids, traversing over suspension bridges and along cargo nets—while harrowingly trying to avoid soaker buckets and
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Other Great Wolf perks include Golf or scale the Eagle Peak Rock Wall. pregnancy massages. Spa-goers are also family raft rides, a lazy river called If you’re sore from all of the water- treated to aromatic, all-natural Aveda® “Crooked Creek,” a live-action adven- oriented adventures, you’ll be happy compositions in the massages, facials ture game called MagiQuest, an ocean- to know there’s a full-service spa and and nail treatments. like pool called Beaver Tail Lake and a salon offering guests a Zen-like atmo- There’s really no end to the amount nightly, children-oriented Story Time sphere. Guests can indulge in relaxing of amenities this state-of-the-art resort offers. Everything you need— held by the Clock Tower in the from an educational and enterlobby. To top it off, there’s Howtainment standpoint—is confined lin’ Tornado, a thrilling ride that to a safe and family-friendly enwill certainly test your advenvironment. One weekend’s stay turous side. You and three othat Great Wolf Lodge and you’ll ers can swish and swirl 30 feet understand why it’s the quintesup the sides of a six-story funsential family vacation destinanel before making a safe splash tion in Virginia. Move over Kings landing. Talk about the ride of a Dominion. Step aside, Busch lifetime! Gardens. Great Wolf Lodge is the If none of the above activiFort Mackenzie is a four-story interactive treehouse water fort new king of the jungle. ties “wets” your whistle, you offering 12 levels of super-soaking fun for the family. To learn how you can visit Great and your loved ones can check out the Kidde slides, partake in color- massage treatments, manicures and Wolf Lodge, or to discover more about ing contests, spend hours in the arcade, pedicures, facials, haircuts and styling, this popular destination’s offerings, visit relax in gigantic hot tubs, take a few to name a few. In fact, there are a dozen www.greatwolf.com. For reservations, laps in the recreational pool, work out types of massages you can choose from, call 1.800.551.9653 today. in their state-of-the-art fitness rooms, including Swedish massages, hot stone — Nicholas Addison Thomas compete on the Howl-in-One Mini massages, aromatherapy massages and
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Stone carving. It’s a medium that requires a superb attention to detail, a well of patience and the type of imagination that turns a slab of rough limestone into an exquisite work of art.
Romancing
Stone
the
by Lisa Reagan photography by Jamie Haverkamp
S
ome people might be alarmed to discover that Gary Colson has carved his own tombstone.
Colson’s clay model of the Outer Banks totem is one fifth scale (about 22"of the final height of 10½')
40 www.VaNeighbors.com
But his wife of sixteen years, Cindy, isn’t worried. In fact, she plans on sharing the tombstone—a lovingly created sculpture of a man embracing a woman— someday in her family’s church cemetery. “When Cindy’s parents gave us the two plots as a wedding gift, we knew divorce was out of the picture,” joked Gary. “Besides, I’m a carver. I can’t have just any old headstone over our graves memorializing our passing.” Until it’s needed for its final purpose, the intricate headstone occupies a central space in a shade garden in their Culpeper yard. Their love for one another, it seems, is literally carved in stone. And that love is just as strong and resilient as Carver’s love for art. Gary Colson always knew, even as a young boy growing up in the Shenandoah Valley, that he would be an artist. Now a beloved local artist and teacher at Liberty High School in Fauquier County, Colson has become an accomplished artist in a variety of mediums, though he admits that he always returns to his true love: stone carving. Just how did he know that stone carving was his calling? “It was this painting that tipped off my college professor that I might be a sculptor and not a painter,” said Colson, pointing to a three-dimensional wallhanging among a collection of his student’s art, which lines the walls of his home’s stairwell. Each room in Colson’s gallery-style home highlights his range of artistic abilities, from paintings to three-dimensional hangings, all tastefully spotlighted and set against brightly colored walls. Even the double-coat closet doors in the entry way have been transformed into a bright landscape mural that tells a visitor they have entered the residence of a versatile and passionate soul. Colson’s latest commission, an huge 10½-foot outdoor totem for the Outer Banks Master Gardeners, dominates his backyard studio space where a writhing water snake, a soaring osprey and sea oats swaying in an impossible ocean breeze are beginning to emerge from four two-and-a-half ton slabs of Indiana limestone. An up-close inspection of the totem reveals a Carolina wren peeping from its nest, the unmistakable texture of old pier wood at the base and a variety of native Outer Banks seabirds—egrets, pelicans and seagulls—emerging from the solid stone in some gravity-defying angle of flight. A free-standing, life-sized loggerhead turtle and ghost crab appear to crawl away from the bursting, euphoric scene. And no, this monument to indigenous wildlife of North Carolina’s barrier islands was not laser-carved in accordance with modern lime-carving methods. This creation, like all of his other works, was hand-carved with some of the
same tools and techniques stone carvers have employed faithfully for thousands of years. For example, Colson’s pneumatic hammer, introduced between 1885 and 1890, might be the most modern tool used to coax the sea life from the limestone slabs. With its sand-like texture and color, the Indiana limestone is perfect for the Outer Banks tribute; the stone was formed on the sea floor as layers of sediment and bodies of primitive sea creatures stacked upon one another. As Colson works, small fossilized creatures like crinoids and brachiopods appear in the stone. The stone breaks fairly predictably along the bed lines, but less cooperatively going across the bed. Think of opening a phone book with the pages, compared to trying to tear it across the pages. The masterful skill necessary to gently hand-carve the stone with intimate knowledge of its needs and with ancient tools is very much apparent as you glimpse this maestro working on a masterpiece. Nearby, on one of the colossal stone slabs, a small, leather-bound sketch book filled with photos, hand-drawings, wildlife facts and poetry illustrate the extensive and thoughtful process that has gone into the design and creation of this particular totem. Long hours spying on seagulls and other wildlife yielded photos for sketching “just the right positions” that would be used to model the seagulls permanent angle among the totem’s menagerie. Colson’s ruminations on his naturalist observations are neatly recorded as a guide and inspiration for
Colson handles the heavy carving with a pneumatic hammer and the more delicate details with finer tools.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 41
“There aren’t many of us left around, hand-carving is tedious and time-consuming, and it doesn’t go over well with a younger generation.” his year-long work with the stone. The sketchbook itself is an exquisite and visceral work of art. “There aren’t many of us left around,” said Colson. “Hand-carving is tedious and time-consuming, and it doesn’t go over well with a younger generation.” With that said, Colson does have a few students who are assisting with the totem’s creation. However, “there isn’t enough stone work in the U.S. to justify taking on a full-time apprentice.” It is also unusual that a stone carver would be the designer, sculptor and carver of a commission. “In Italy, ten people would do this sculpture and take the credit. I am coming into the back door of this profession by not working with a community of carvers and doing it all myself,” he said. Just over a century ago, stone carvers were flourishing, with tens of thousands of stonecutters and carvers working in the United States. Chicago alone had more than 100 stone mills and the New York local union of cutters and carvers boasted 5,000 registered members. Stone carving for architectural ornamentation did not decline due to cost, as it had always been the highest-paid building trade and considered on par with the expertise and professionalism of doctors and attorneys. The death knell for stone carving rang in the last century as an emerging modern culture discarded a thousand year-old pre-requisite that communities and community buildings be beautiful and ornate; as a result, the platform for stone carvers as a profession was eliminated. Today, a few remaining stone carvers ban together as guilds to preserve the profession, but most work in isolation, much like Colson. “American stone carvers have always been influenced by Cathedral carvers and the Italian carvers who trace their history to Roman times,” said Colson. Colson lists his influences as Frederick Hart and Constantine Seferlis, contributors to the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., which was declared completed in 1990, nine decades after the cornerstone was laid. Seferlis’ contributions to the Cathedral include limestone gargoyles, saints, angels and freestanding figural 42 www.VaNeighbors.com
sculptures of historical personages such as Helen Keller and Pope John XXIII. Seferlis, in particular, and through personal instruction, influenced Colson. Seferlis’ works were highlighted in the Academy Award-winning 1984 documentary, “The Stone Carvers”. His commitment to continuing his rare artisan craft led him to teach in community colleges from 1998 to 2002, where he studied directly with Seferlis. After his death in 2005, Seferlis was buried in the Washington National Cathedral. While there remain “pockets of Italian stone carvers around America,” their numbers are dwindling. The need for connection with a community of rare stone carvers led Colson to the small, but historic Italian village Pietrasanta for a six-week sabbatical in November 2008. In the same village where Michelangelo and Pietro Bernini studied and worked, Colson observed timeless artisans and their secret processes. “In this community, there are levels of hierarchy,” said Colson. “The younger carvers barely touch the stone, the older ones do the rough work, and the master, a very old man, will come out slowly at the end and lightly touch the stone, adding details that transform it into a work of art.” When he returns stateside, Colson will continue to bring the Outer Banks totem to life and prepare it for its August 2009 installment in Kill Devil Hills. In a fitting homage to the venerable history of stone carvers and their relationship to communities, the Outer Banks commissioned totem will be placed between the Dare County Community Buildings and the entrance to the Master Gardener’s Arboretum. The Outer Banks Arboretum and Teaching Garden, a project of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Master Gardeners, features butterfly gardens, dune gardens and live oak gardens. To visit Colson’s studio and galleries online, go to www.garycolson.net. To visit the totem in its new home after August or for more information on the Outer Banks Master Gardeners and Arboretum, call 252.473.4290. d
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 43
The Brompton Oak on the University of Mary Washington campus in Fredericksburg
Standing
Tall:
Virginia’s Oldest Residents Some journeys, regardless of their length, can bring communities together. Just imagine the natural evolution of one of nature’s most precious gifts: trees. Before the Internet and the advent of technology, before the production of cars and the increase in urban environments, people used to look at trees with wonderment, staring in awe at the size and stature of nature’s creations.
photography by Robert Llewellyn
Nancy Ross Hugo, author of Remarkable Trees of Virginia, nows a thing or two about that awe k and the magic of journeys.
Nancy Ross Hugo is an outdoor writer and lecturer who has been pursuing her interest in trees for over 30 years. She was a columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch and served as education manager at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. She currently directs Flower Camp in Howardsville, VA and lives with her husband John in Ashland.
Her book, which took four years and 20,000 miles to complete, presents a breathtakingly unique perspective on Old Dominion’s collective cultural history through the eyes of 100 of her most revered witnesses, including the people who care for and love them. Overflowing with stunning photos of 100 of Virginia’s largest, oldest, most unique and most historic trees by veteran Virginian photographer Robert Llewellyn, the easy prose and fascinating details of these still thriving trees illuminate a heritage few of us have paused to consider, but certainly will after encountering this “must-have” book. When Hugo and Jeff Kirwan, professor of forestry at Virginia Tech, launched the Remarkable Trees of Virginia Project in 2004, their mission was “to educate the public about Virginia’s finest trees.” Their project, which focused on soliciting entries of favorite trees from Virginians, quickly turned into a compilation of what tree-loving Virginians already knew about their trees, because that knowledge and appreciation was vast, states Hugo. Keeping the focus on native species, the project accepted nominations from old folks and children, from motorcycle clubs searching for champion trees on rides, naturalists and neighborhoods, and from people celebrating births and losses. All of the submissions, many of which made their way into the mammoth book, were spirited and thoughtful in recognition of the region’s most beautiful and aged trees. “This book is the accumulated wisdom of all the tree nominators, arborists, foresters, botanists, landscapers, city planners, homeowners, hikers, naturalists, and others who shared what they knew with us,” states Hugo. “We intend this book to honor them as well as Virginia’s remarkable trees.” Readers should know the colossus book comes with a warning from Hugo and Llewellyn: This book does not capture the pure essence of the trees. You have to go visit them! (Chapter Nine lists the best places to visit Virginia trees.) “Pictures and writing are a pale reflection of what trees really are. They cannot be captured in two-dimensional work,” says Hugo. “In person they are one
Clockwise from top left: American Chestnut in the Caledon Natural Area of King George county, state champion Yellowwood at Kenmore in Fredericksburg, Walnut tree at Montpelier in Orange county.
46 www.VaNeighbors.com
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 47
hundred times more impressive. We hope the book will inspire people to make a day of it and go visit the trees.” Hugo points out that a large landscape can dwarf a tree, and so can some of the full-page, illustrious photos in the book. For this reason she hopes the book will encourage readers to go out and visit their favorite trees or, at the very least, use the book’s guide to search for overlooked gems in a forest. “Walk down to the tree and hug your body next to that huge trunk,” instructs Hugo. “You cannot tell from a distance how big it is. If you hug a tree, you are doing more than feeling the bark. You get to feel its grandeur. You get to feel your smallness to its largeness, its long life to your short life. “You can’t help but to respond to trees. People forget that these are gigantic living plants. Some on the West Coast are 4,000 years old. The oldest tree in Virginia is an 833 year-old Bald Cypress on the Black River that was alive when Genghis Khan was around.” In addition to photos representing the vast range of seasons, as well as locations, size and shapes of trees, Hugo and Kirwan spare no effort in extolling the rich, detailed histories and significance of the chosen 100 specimens in Remarkable Trees. Consider the ancient, intricately gnarled and hollow Southern Catalpa trees on the north side of Chatham in Stafford County, where Walt Whitman described the scene at the Civil War hospital for “worst case soldiers.” According to eye-witness accounts, amputated limbs of soldiers were tossed out of the mansion’s North windows and to the foot of the two then-25 foot-tall trees, pictured in an 1863 photograph. “Outdoors, at the foot of a tree, within ten yards of the front of the house, I noticed a heap of amputated feet, legs, arms, hands, etc. — about a load for a one-horse cart. Several dead bodies lie near, each covered with its brown woolen blanket,” writes Whitman. When the Remarkable Trees team visited the Southern Catalpas at Chatham in June 2007, they were “blooming profusely. Instead of mutilated bodies, a well-kept lawn now surrounds these trees, and their trunks seem to say 48 www.VaNeighbors.com
Southern Catalpa at Chatam in Stafford County
‘everything heals, but sometimes the scars are startling,’” wrote the authors. Ghost trees are not outside the scope of the book’s extensive reach. Featured in all of its past glory in a King George County forest is an American Chestnut tree’s still-standing, but dead, homage to “one of the greatest natural disasters in the history of forest biology.” More than four billion American Chestnuts of enormous stature dominated the forests of the central and southern Appalachian Mountains until they were wiped out by chestnut blight, imported on the Chinese Chestnut, in the 1930s and 1940s. The silver lining of this tragedy is Virginia’s efforts to restore the American Chestnut to its former glory through the American Chestnut Foundation. Blight-resistant versions of this American classic will be available to the public for planting in 2015. This, and other interesting tidbits about Virginia trees, is highlighted in this book. “Someone asked me what we most wanted to convey in this book,” said Hugo. “It was to bring trees from background to the foreground of our minds. They are work horses. They clean up the air, soak up water that would overflow streams. They swallow our fumes. As one person said to me, they are not just ornaments. We couldn’t survive without them. We wouldn’t be here without them. They predate us by three million years. If it weren’t for the trees soaking up the green house gases and putting off oxygen, it wouldn’t have allowed humans to evolve.” In addition to bringing trees to the forefront of our busy lives, Hugo and Kirwan wanted to honor the people who care for and love these often elderly and fragile beings. At the University of Mary Washington, “we wanted
to tell everyone on campus you don’t get those nice, sweeping branches close to the ground without someone like Joni Wilson, Director of Landscape and Grounds, training the mowers to avoid them.” “As a longtime gardener I feel like I wasted time on perennials when I could have been growing trees. You can’t plant enough perennials to match the impact of a white oak. When you are too old to weed anymore, the trees will live right on without you. I just planted a white oak eight years ago; it was 10 years-old when I bought it. It will live to be 600 years-old. My tree is an infant and will be when I die. If people will just leave it alone, and that is all they have to do is just leave it alone, it will live a long time.” It isn’t too late to join in on the fun at the Remarkable Trees of Virginia Project. You can still visit the Web site, nominate your bestloved trees and view pictures and stories that did not make it into the book’s final cut. You can also search the Web site by species, county or nominator. “What’s so uplifting about the Web site is that, in addition to conveying important information about Virginia trees, it conveys the voices of ordinary Virginians, each different but consistently emphatic in its appreciation of trees,” said Hugo. Hugo and Kirwan’s project is an offshoot of the 2006 National Register of Big Trees, prepared by American Forests. That list, published continuously since 1940, documents the biggest of 822 species of trees. Kirwan maintains Virginia’s official tree register, Virginia Big Tree Program, which has provided 43 national champion trees and puts Virginia fifth in the nation for having the most big trees by species. d
The Remarkable Trees of Virginia Project is still taking nominations for your favorite trees, either ones you know and love or love from afar. View hundreds of nominations and stories from tree-lovers. Visit them online at http://www.cnr.vt.edu/4H/remarkabletree/.
50 www.VaNeighbors.com
River Birch at Kenmore in Fredericksburg
Loblolly Pine forest in Caroline county
ART | ENTERTAINMENT | MUSIC | DINING
MUSIC
Giants Among Men: The Funk You Thunk Was Gone
L
ike a freestyle superhero league outfitted with punching horns, kicking keys and a slappin’ bass, the high-octane band, Third Stream Giants, believes it’s their mission to save you from yourself; namely, from your low expectations of mere mortal music by “bringing da‘ funk.” Since 2006, the “little big band” has made an indelible mark on the East Coast airwaves through funk-pop touring events and moments of musical magic in bar scenes and clubs. Their music, a mix of funk and pop, dazzles a diverse crowd, and in each venue they play, they leave behind an enlightened mix of old and new fans in their glorious wake. “Our name comes from Gunther Schuller’s coined phrase for music that » JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 53
GIANTS continued ___________________________________________
mixes the instrumentation and arrangements of classical and the improv of jazz,” said band leader and composer, Matt Montoro. “’Third Stream has since been used to describe any combination of two forms of main stream music for the creation of a ‘third stream’.” And the “Giant” part? Where, exactly, did that come from? If you were one of many people lucky enough to see the band perform live, you’d quickly understand that their stage presence, much like their music, is gigantic in its whole. Thus, Third Stream Giants (or 3SG) is realized. The band’s humble origins as a studio band with Third Stream Music recording studio came to fruition when Montoro scoured the East Coast for “like-minded instrumentalists driven to work on a unique blend of jazz, funk, classical and pop.” He looked high and low for artists who had the gift for musical expression and enjoyed the creativity of performance. Before he knew it, Montoro was able to round up a posse of professional musicians and began to assemble the funkinfused band. Today, 3SG consists of eight members: Justin “Mr. Duff” Duff on the saxophone, Lars Holmstrom on the trumpet, Jeremy Wall on the trombone, Montoro on guitar, Percy Burt on bass, Jason Collett on drums and Anthony Campbell on vocals. When it comes time to creating music that represents their creativity as a whole, Campbell and Montoro are the engineers of musical expressions. The duo collaborates on 3SG’s original arrangements and are happy contrasts to each other’s musical stylings. “We have very different approaches to lyrics and poetry. One way of music writing is a realistic approach, while another is metaphorical. You need both to have a good mix,” says Montoro, who admits he is the metaphorical contributor. “Some say, ‘hey you sound like this group.’ We sound like everything, because we do everything.” It is 3SG’s unique combination of jazz, funk, classical, pop, Latin and other forms of music that appeals to a wide range of people. Complex time signatures, stark melodies and beautiful harmonies highlight the movements and the solid percussion and rhythm section frame the songs into an enjoyable and challenging experience. What’s more, with the impressive and uplifting “little big band” behind him, it is Anthony Campbell’s stunningly soulful baritone and high energy that will sweep you off your feet and into a Third Stream awareness of what you’ve been musically missing all these years. 3SG’s upcoming CD, Cool Human, is set to release in January 2009. For more information on the band, or for a listing of their upcoming concerts, visit them online at www.thirdstreamgiants.com. 54 www.VaNeighbors.com
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 55
BEST BITES
Kybecca’s Wine Bar
F
or three years, Kybecca has established itself as the destination for fine wine in the Fredericksburg region. With a vast array of reds and white, cheeses and other wine accessories, it’s no wonder people equate Kybecca with quality service and top-quality wine. Since 2005, owners Kyle and Rebecca Snyder have worked hard to make their business several wine glasses above the local fare. They’re at it again with their most recent addition: a mesmerizing wine bar in historic downtown Fredericksburg. I had heard a lot about their newest edition, and I was excited to experience the ambiance and culture in person. The tapas (appetizers only) bar is located in a post-civil was building that once served as Fredericksburg’s general store. One look at the interior and you can tell the owners were adamant about making the place supremely elegant. There are original tin ceilings, wood floors, sophisticated lighting, bountiful space and other old and new architectural details. For an added touch, beautiful Christopher A. Rok photographs adorn the earth-tone colored walls. My first thought when I entered the popular bar: This is the future of Fredericksburg dining-- a classic colonial setting with a hint of up-scale decor. As their elaborate Web site can attest, Kybecca’s wine bar is a natural evolution from their popular wine shops (they have one other
56 www.VaNeighbors.com
location off of Plank Road.) In fact, nearly every aspect of the wine bar was crafted by hand. From the comfortable furniture and open kitchen to the massive concrete bar, it’s evident the owners wanted to infuse their own look and feel to the place. If that wasn’t enough to set the place apart from other local wine bars, Kybecca also offers self-service wine stations called Enomatics (they’re the only place in the region to offer such an innovative approach to wine tasting). Enomatics are wine-dispensing machines that allow customers to have fun when tasting a wide variety of wines. Customers simply put a certain amount of money on a card, and then they get to test out the diverse array of wines at their leisure. . I was impressed with the aesthetics of the place, but I was even more impressed with their food and wine offerings. Their menu and wine list was robust, and it was tough choosing from such a wide variety of reasonably priced, delicious-sounding dishes. I ordered the lobster mint salad, eager to experience the culinary coupling of superb seafood and crisp greens. Accompanying the meal was a bottle of Shiraz; specifically, a 2006 Strong Arm from Australia. It was a delicious red with a little spice— a perfect complement to the food to come. Preceding my elaborate appetizer was a generous bowl of green and black olives, bathed in
a pool of garlic sauce. Delicious. I split my time indulging in my olive enthusiasm and partaking in some bread delivered fresh from the oven. By the time my salad arrived, I was in a state of culinary bliss. The prices were decent (you could dine with a date for less than $50) and the service was above and beyond my expectations. In fact, at one point, Kyle himself came out to see how we were doing. What’s more, he voluntarily recooked my date’s meal, as she preferred her lamb chops a little less rare. The staff went out of their way to ensure we were in good hands, and we most certainly were. Before leaving, we took one last moment to soak in the ambiance of the place. There was a terrifically comfortable feeling in the wine bar, and it’s setting offered a graceful combination of big-city chic and small-town elegance— the perfect combination for a night out in historic downtown Fredericksburg. If you have yet to experience this new tapas joint, you’re in for a treat of delicious proportions. Just remember to bring your appetite, as their food selection is as diverse and dazzling as their wine. — Nicholas Addison Thomas To get a virtual tour of Kybecca’s new wine bar, or for a full menu of their food and wine offerings, visit www.kybecca.com 400 William Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-373-3338 4264 Plank Road Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-548-3339 Hours of operation Stores: Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wine Bar: Tuesday - Thursday: 5 p.m - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 3 p.m. - 12 a.m.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 57
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Out&About
The Road To Salivation
From January 22-31, the city of Fredericksburg will host its 4th annual Restaurant Week: The Road to Salivation. During the week, indulge on three-course prix fixe meals from some of the city’s finest restaurants. Chefs will feature special menus to showcase their house specialties. Delight in sheer gastronomical bliss as you enjoy all the flavors that our region has to offer. Restaurant Week is presented by the City of Fredericksburg and sponsored by the Downtown Fredericksburg Restaurant Association. Reservations are recommended, but not required for this event. www.visitfred.com
11/1/08 to 1/25/09
Peter Pan Come fly away to NeverNever-Land with the magical cast of Peter Pan. Enjoy the state-of-the-art professional theater while being charmed by the cast as they serve a fabulous dinner to your table. Th.-Sat. 6:00pm dinner, 8:00pm show; Wed. & Sun. Matinees available. . Riverside Center Dinner Theater, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg. www.riversidedt.com. 1/2/09
First Friday A celebration of the arts in Old Town Fredericksburg with new exhibit openings in downtown galleries, times varying but within 6 to 9:30 p.m. FREE. Old Town Fredericksburg. 1/2/09 to 2/1/09
LibertyTown Artists Student Show Come enjoy our popular annual LibertyTown Student Show! Original artwork and
reasonable prices! Opening Reception is First Friday, Jan. 2, 5-9pm. FREE. LibertyTown Arts Workshop, Fredericksburg. www.libertytownarts.com. 1/10/09 to 12/12/09
be led by Horticulturist Sandy Mudrinich. Price of tour included with admission. Free to Members of Montpelier. For more information please call (540) 672-2728.
Super Saturdays
1/14/09
Join staff in the Learning Center for hands-on, childcentered activities and programs. Second Saturday of the month, 11-3.Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center, Fredericksburg. www.fredericksburgareamuseum.com.
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
1/13/09
Winter Big Woods Walk Tour of the James Madison Landmark Forest. A 200-acre old-growth forest lies just beyond the back lawn of the Mansion. Designated by the U.S. Department of Interior as a National Natural Landmark, the “Big Woods” is recognized as the best example of an old-growth forest in the Piedmont. Tour begins at 2:00 p.m. and will
Guest speaker is Virginia Delegate Dwight Jones, who is a minister, activist and community leader; 4 p.m.; George Washington Hall, Dodd Auditorium. FREE. University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg. www. umw.edu/multicultural.
Pickin’ and Grinnin’
Join Junior Sisk & Rambler’s Choice and kenny & Amanda Smith as they kick off the first of the Bluegrass FM 2008-2009 Fall-Winter Concert Series at Massaponax High School in Spotsylvania, VA. Doors open at 5:00 pm, concert starts at 6:00 pm. Food will be available to purchase. Free admission, tickets required. Saturday, January 10, 2009 (Opens: 5:00 PM) Saturday, February 14, 2009 (Opens: 5:00 PM) Saturday, March 14, 2009 (Opens: 5:00 PM) www.bluegrassfm.org/
1/14/09 to 2/28/09
Painting Highlights from the House While the house is closed for repairs, many of Gari and Corinne Melchers’ favorite paintings from their personal collection will be displayed in the studio. This gives audiences an opportunity to closely inspect pictures that are often difficult to view in
the house setting. The scope of the couple’s collection is broad and eclectic, including everything from the old masters to the work of Melchers’ European and American contemporaries. Gari Melchers Home and Studio, Fredericksburg. www. umw.edu/gari_melchers.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 59
Out&About The Unpretentious Garden, painted around 1910, pictures the artist’s wife in the lush backyard of their home in Holland. It is a sunny, impressionist landscape expressing the happy tranquility of the artist’s domestic life. No wonder The Unpretentious Garden is the most reproduced image by Gari Melchers. The painting appears at Gari Melchers Home and Studio for the first time and in the company of other examples painted by Melchers during the Dutch interlude of his career. Gari Melchers Home and Studio, Fredericksburg. www.umw. edu/gari_melchers.
Nesbitt and the investigative team from the Travel Channel’s Mysterious Journeys: Ghosts of Gettysburg episode (including Investigative Medium Laine Crosby) will provide handson training in the latest paranormal investigation techniques. Venues on the list for potential investigation: The Richard Johnston Inn, The Chimneys, Spotsylvania Courthouse and Jailhouse, Lee’s Hill Golf Club. Call the Richard Johnston Inn for reservations and information. The Richard Johnston Inn: (540) 899-7606 The Richard Johnston Inn, Toll-Free: (877) 557-0770, Fredericksburg, www.therichardjohnstoninn.com.
1/16/09 to 1/18/09
1/21/09
Ghost Quest Weekend
Religious Freedom Commemoration Lecture
1/14/09 to 5/15/09
Winter 2009 Spotlight Exhibition
The Ghosts of Fredericksburg and The Richard Johnston Inn invite you to experience a weekend of ghostly adventures! Mark
Alan Wolfe, Professor of Political Science and founding Director of the Boisi
Celebrate the birthday of Hugh Mercer
You’ll learn from Dr. Mercer’s assistants what combination of herbs, extracts and barks were used to cure what ails you. Take a walk in the herb garden. Leeches, lancets, snakeroot, and crab claws made up just some of the remedies. His patients included Mary Washington, mother of George. Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. FREE 12 p.m.-4 p.m. (540) 373-3362, (540) 373-1569. E-mail: hmas@apva.org. 1020 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg
60 www.VaNeighbors.com
Center for Religion and American Public Life at Boston College, will present a lecture, “Who’s Afraid of American Religion?” at 7 p.m. in Dodd Auditorium, University of Mary Washington. Professor Wolfe’s most recent books include Does American Democracy Still Work? (Yale University Press, 2006), Return to Greatness: How America Lost Its Sense of Purpose and What it Needs to Do to Recover It (Princeton University Press, 2005), The Transformation of American Religion: How We Actually Practice Our Faith (Free Press, 2003) and An Intellectual in Public (University of Michigan Press, 2003). He is the author or editor of more than ten other books, has lectured widely at American and European universities, and currently chairs a task force of the American Political Science Association on “Religion and Democracy in the United States.” FREE. Dodd Auditorium, University of Mary Washington. 1/25/09
Wedding Sampler Gari Melchers Home and Studio is hosting a Wedding Sampler, an intimate gathering of local vendors specializing in wedding fare, in the Studio Pavilion on January 25 from 1-5 pm. The cost of the afternoon event is $10/person and $5/UMW students, which includes a tour of the studio and the Spotlight Exhibition: The Unpretentious Garden and the special exhibition “Painting Highlights from the House.” Overlooking beautiful gardens and the Rappahannock River, the Studio Pavilion at Belmont is
a unique location for a rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony or reception. The Wedding Sampler will feature presentations on wedding planning, photography, invitations, and floral design. 1:30 p.m. Joyce Waugh— Wedding Planning/coordinating 2:30 p.m. Norval Waugh—Wedding Photography 3:30 p.m. Anita from Write Touch—Invitations 4:30 p.m. Jan Williams— Floral Design Door prizes will be drawn every half hour. To pre-register, contact Betsy Labar at 540-654-1848 or blabar@umw.edu. 1/30/09 to 4/26/09
Nunsense Don’t miss this delightful comedy and musical, performed live on stage! Enjoy the state-of-the-art professional theater while being charmed by the cast as they serve a fabulous dinner to your table. Th.-Sat. 6:00pm dinner, 8:00pm show; Wed. & Sun. Matinees available. Riverside Center Dinner Theater, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg. www.riversidedt.com. 1/30/09 to 2/1/09
Fredericksburg Boat Show The Fredericksburg Boat Show will have more than 3 football fields of boats and marine accessories filling two giant indoor halls at the Fredericksburg Expo & Convention Center. There’s no other boat show in the region with as much diversity or impact...that’s a fact. Unlike other one-dimensional boat shows that cater to a very narrow audience, the Fredericksburg Boat Show provides a full-featured experience with an unlimited array of outstanding new
boats, plus fun and exciting diversions for family members of all ages. Bottomline, the boat show is a fun family outing whether you intend on simply browsing or buying. Fredericksburg Expo Center, Fredericksburg. www.bmgevents.com. 1/31/09
Annual Barrel Tasting Taste wine before its time at Hartwood Winery. Sample wine right from the barrel and compare with finished bottled wines. Live music by Gerry Maddox. Hours: 11am6pm. 345 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg. www. hartwoodwinery.com. 2/4/09
Black History Month Celebration Guest speaker is Mohammed Bilal, actor, musician and educator on diversity issues and awareness; Woodard Campus Center, Great Hall; 7 p.m. (540) 654-1044. FREE. University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, www. umw.edu/multicultural. 2/6/09
First Friday A celebration of the arts in Old Town Fredericksburg with new exhibit openings in downtown galleries, times varying but within 6 to 9:30 p.m. FREE. 706 Caroline St., www.fredart.org. 2/6/09 to 3/1/09
“Young Fredericksburg” Art Exhibit Join us for our Opening Reception -First Friday, Feb. 2, 5-9pm in the main gallery. “Young Fredericksburg” is now in it’s 3rd year, curated by Bill Harris. FREE. LibertyTown Arts Workshop. Fredericksburg, www. libertytownarts.com.
2/10/09
Freedman’s Farm Tour, and Confederate Winter Camp Site Walking Tour Tour of the Gilmore Farm, home of George Gilmore, born a slave at Montpelier, followed by a walking tour of the 1863-64 Confederate Winter winter encampment site. Tour begins at 2:00 p.m., led by Montpelier Interpreter Jayne E. Blair, author of two books on the Civil War. Price included with admission. Free to Montpelier Members. For more information please call (540) 672-2728 x441. 2/12/09 to 2/22/09
Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning, Juliet) Plucky college professor Constance Ledbelly sets out to prove, on a mere sliver of evidence, that Shakespeare’s two most famous tragedies were, in fact, comedies penned by an unknown author. To prove her point, she disappears into her wastebasket and emerges invincible in the worlds of Othello and Romeo and Juliet, conjuring swashbuckling adventure and laugh-outloud results. duPont Hall, Klein Theatre, University of Mary Washington, 1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg, Date/Hours: Thursday, February 12, 2009 Saturday, February 14, 2009 (Opens: 8:00 PM) Sunday, February 15, 2009 (Opens: 2:00 PM) Thursday, February 19, 2009 Saturday, February 21, 2009 (Opens: 8:00 PM) Sunday, February 22, 2009 (Opens: 2:00 PM) Admission: $10.00 Phone: (540) 654-1124 www.umw.edu.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 61
Out&About 2/13/09
Sweet Side of Life The Perfect Valentine’s Celebration! An Evening of Music, Dancing, Savory Hors d’oeuvres & Decadent Desserts. Black tie optional. Music provided by the Fredericksburg Big Band. Food provided by popular local restaurants and chefs. To benefit Fredericksburg Counseling Services, Inc. Fredericksburg Hospitality House, Fredericksburg, www.fcsagency.org. 2/14/09
Breakfast with George Washington Join George Washington, Fielding Lewis, Betty Washington Lewis, and other members of the family (portrayed by first-person interpreters, George Washington’s Friends and Young Friends) for a hearty breakfast and an entertaining morning. George will tell stories about his boyhood at Ferry Farm. You’ll also be able to play 18th-century games. Feel free to dress in colonial costume to get in the spirit! Two sittings - 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. George Washington’s Ferry Farm, Fredericksburg, kenmore.org/foundation/events.html. 2/14/09
Stone Throw Challenge This annual event, sponsored by The George Washington Foundation, attracts hundreds of participants, young and old, who attempt to match George Washington’s feat of tossing a stone across the Rappahanock River. It’s not easy (the river is almost 300 feet wide!), but it’s fun to try and fun to watch. George Washington himself and some of his
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family members (portrayed by first-person interpreters, George Washington’s Friends and Young Friends) are expected to make an appearance. Open to all ages. 2 p.m. FREE. City Dock Downtown Fredericksburg, kenmore.org/foundation/ events.html. 2/14/09
Day of Romance at Potomac Point Winery “Where there is no wine there is no love.” Euripides. Sip sparkling wine paired with decadent chocolate covered strawberries with your sweetheart. Get cozy by the fireplace in our D’Vine Lounge. It’s the perfect little getaway for two. Offered on Valentine’s Day only. 275 Decatur Road, Stafford, www. potomacpointwinery.com. 2/16/09
George Washington’s Birthday Celebration Come to George Washington’s boyhood home to join in the celebration of his 277th birthday! This great party includes games, crafts, refreshments, and, of course, a birthday cake. You’ll get to meet George Washington and some of his family members (portrayed by first-person interpreters, George Washington’s Friends and Young Friends) to learn more about life in the colonial period. Come dressed in colonial costume to really get into the spirit! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. George Washington’s Ferry Farm,Fredericksburg, kenmore.org/foundation/ events.html. 2/20/09 to 2/22/09
Fredericksburg Outdoor Show Highlights include: NRA Whitetail display, Fishing
Experts share their tricks with Seminars on top of the “Hawg Tank”,Test Kayaks in the Kayak Demo Pool, Indoor 3d Archery range (Bring your own Bow) Kids can try the Trout Pond (fee) and the Kids Kasting Contest, Mike Puffenbarger of Maple Tree Outdoors/Turkey Calling Seminars, Rick Bolton of Magnum Fields/Waterfowling Tips & Seminars, Doug Deats of Mill Creek Farms Kennels/Dog Training Tips, Plus vendors with all the latest Fishing and Hunting Equipment. Fredericksburg Expo Center, Fredericksburg, www.bmgevents.com. 2/21/09 to 2/22/09
Mid-Winter Wine Celebration Guest winery “Unicorn Winery” joins Hartwood Winery to help chase away the winter blues! Wine tastings from both wineries, tours and light hors d’oeuvres for this indoor event. Hours: 11am-5pm. Admission includes a complimentary glass. 345 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg, www. hartwoodwinery.com.
2/27/09 to 3/1/09
Fredericksburg RV & Camping Expo The RVs are coming and there will be over 100 different models in the building. From motorhomes, travel trailers, 5th wheels, pop ups, truck trailers and fun movers. They are all here. Models and brands range from: Fleetwood, Coachman, Aero-lite, Fun Finder, Gulf Stream, Itasca, Sprinter, Forrest River, Four Winds, Wildcat, Salem, Sunora, Discovery, Meridian, Pathfinder, Hurricane, Keystone, Excel, Trail Manor, Ameri-Lite, Sunora, Flagstaff and Much more. In addition to the RVs, Camping World has a great selection of accessories on display as well as booth after booth of Campgrounds and RV related product and service companies. Don’t miss the opportunity to sign up at the show to win one of the many Door Prizes that range from Cobra two way radios to tents. Fredericksburg Expo Center, Fredericksburg, www. bmgevents.com.
Death By Chocolate
You and your Valentine will indulge your senses with award-winning red wines and chocolates. Hosted by Lake Anna Winery and sponsored by American Cancer Society (Relay for Life). Fee includes souvenir glass, tours, tasting, door prizes & Wheel of Fortune. Eat, Drink and be Charitable! Noon to 5:00 PM. Reservations for food are required. Call 540-895-5085. Lake Anna Winery, Spotsylvania, www.lawinery.com.
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Horton Vineyards Mardi Gras and Gumbo Celebration Join Chef Emeril Le Horton and his fellow gumbo lovers at Horton’s Mardi Gras Celebration. Traditional Mardi Gras games and prizes. 11am – 5pm. $10/person includes glass. Info: 540-832-7440. Horton Vineyards, 6399 Spotswood Trail, Gordonsville, www.hvwine.com.
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The RPO Presents An Evening with Patrick A’Hearn Saturday 8:00 PM – Tickets required. Back by popular demand, Broadway entertainer, Patrick A’Hearn arrives from New York City to perform an evening of his favorite Rogers and Hammerstein, and Gershwin songs with the full Rappahannock POPS Orchestra. Maestro Kirk Wilke directs the program. A’Hearn’s brief appearance with the POPS last season was a sell-out performance. Order tickets early. Order tickets online or by phone. Spotsylvania Middle School Auditorium Spotsylvania, www.rappahannockpops.org.
One generation later ... OUR COMMITMENT & VISION REMAIN STRONG w w w . n i c h o l l s a u c t i o n . c o m
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 63
Cul-de-sac
The Great Train Race By Jacoby Smith The Great Train Race is the largest youth timed road race on the east coast of the United States. It has had up to 3,500 runners! This event is an event where children 5-18 years old get timed running a mile. Younger kids can participate in the Caboose Run. This event is always on the first Sunday of May each year. The race is in historic downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia. Children run rain or shine in this event. Debbie Bernardes is the race director, and it was her idea to create this event. She wanted to come up with a way to raise money for the Luekemia Society. She says that the first Great Train Race was in 1992. I asked her who benefits from the Great Train Race and she said, “that depends on the race director, but in the past year it was the Fredericksburg Area Service League. They do activities and work for the disadvantaged youth in the Fredericksburg Region.” The race starts at the corner of the streets Lafayette Blvd. and Caroline Street and goes one mile around the city to the City Dock. All roads are blocked off for safety. Also they have volunteers riding on bicycles around the
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course in case of emergency. Safety is the most important thing in the Great Train Race. The first year there were about 400 runners. The race each year has gotten bigger, each year almost doubling. Which was a surprise. The new thing this year was, the “Chip Timing.” Instead of having a person time you there is a chip in your shoe which times you almost instantly. Once all the information is in the computer they find your ranking. In the newspaper, the next week you can see all the participants times and rankings. There are prizes for this event. Every participant that finishes gets a Great Train Race medal and a tshirt. There are overall and heat awards for the best times. For schools there is the Kenmore Inn Award which goes to the school with the most participation. Awards go as follows: 1st place gets $600, 2nd place gets $500, 3rd gets $400, 4th gets $300, and 5th place gets $200. To get an award you must race with your assigned heat. If you don’t show up on time you can race with another heat, but you won’t be eligible for an award. They also have a Caboose Run it is a 400 meter nontimed fun run for children under five years old. These children are not ready to run the mile. It starts on Sophia Street and ends at the City Dock (all downhill). They get a medal and a t-shirt for participating. Parent participation is limited. Parents may only run in the heat with their special needs child. They may also run in the back of the heats of the six and seven year olds. The biggest way parents participate is by cheering the kids on throughout the course. There is photos and snacks at the end of the race. It’s like a big party. All and all I think the Great Train Race is well thought out event. I’ve been running for the past five years. I have done bad sometimes, but it is just cool to finish. I think it is a great event. d ___________________________________________
Jacoby Smith is a Stafford 5th grader with a promising career in writing.
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