Shenandoah Living Magazine Nov/Dec 2013

THE MAGAZINE FOR PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN AND LOVE THE VALLEY

SHENANDOAHNovember-December| Issue 25 FREE “Top 10 Living Valley Artists” Bells in the Valley Buyers Club, Part 2

Buena Vista Mt. Jackson Main Street Front Royal New Market Matters Middletown Woodstock Holiday Traditions in the Blue Ridge Discover the excitement at Preston Lake. Due to popular SUNNYSIDE Ddemand,iscover Evergreene the excitement Homes at Prestonis proud Lake. to Dueintroduce to popular our demand,new Villa Evergreene Collection! Homes These is76 proudhomes to willintroduce feature our a newbright, Villa open Collection! floorplan, These main 76floor homes Owner’s will featureSuite, anda bright,countless open luxuryfloorplan, features! main floorThese Owner’shomes willSuite, include and countlesshardwood luxuryflooring, features! granite Thesecounter homes tops, stainlesswill include steel hardwood flooring, granite appliances, and more! The counter tops, stainless steel Villas will certainly meet appliances, and more! The Villasthe needs will ofcertainly many buyers,meet thepriced needs from of manyonly buyers,the mid Amazing things are happening at priced$200’s. from Our only new the Parkside mid Amazing things are happening at $200’s.Townhomes Our newfeature Parkside 3 Townhomesfinished levels featurewith a main3 finishedlevel open levels living with space,a main 9’ levelmain andopen lower living level space, ceilings, 9’ mainand aand large lower center level ceilings,island in andyour a stunninglarge center stainless island steelin yourkitchen. stunning With stainlessso many steellavish kitchen.standard With features so many that lavish any standardbuyer is surefeatures to love. that any buyer is sure to love. Preston Lake has everything Preston Lake has everything you want in a community you want in a community Set in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Sunnyside is one of including great amenities NewNew & exciting & exciting one one level level living living floorplans! floorplans! including great amenities – fromfrom walkingwalking trailstrails toto Virginia’s leading continuing care retirement communities. It is a ClubhouseClubhouse construction construction starting starting this this year! year! enjoy thethe amazingamazing views,views, to the future clubhouse and warm and welcoming neighborhood where you can enjoy Construction on our first Villa is under way! to the future clubhouse and Construction on our first Villa is under way! outdoor poolpool toto enjoy enjoy lazy lazy care-free living through affordable choices and pleasing comforts Get Getconnected connected with with the the new new Southeast Southeast Connector Connector Road! Road! summer days.days. Preston Preston Lake Lake isis alsoalso convenientconvenient to to all all the the and conveniences. Add to this countless opportunities for NewNew events events every every month, month, check check our our Facebook Facebook page page for for updates! updates! great placesplaces youyou enjoy enjoy for for shopping, entertainmententertainment active living. All this while having peace of mind for the future. and diningdining in in Harrisonburg. Harrisonburg. Excellent mortgage mortgage financing financing Come and experience our 120-acre campus and see for yourself options areare availableavailable with with preferred lenderslenders that that offer offer minimum down payments why our experience ranks us among the best. minimum down payments and avoid the expensive, and avoid the expensive, Our complimentary Staycation* is just a phone call away. stressful, construction loan process.stressful, construction loan *Certain restrictions may apply. process. Contact us for more info: Come discover for yourself 540-605-9530Contact | [email protected] us for more info: whyCome Preston discover Lake for is notyourself just Independent Living. Assisted Living. Skilled Nursing Care. Memory Care. why Preston Lake is not just PrestonLakeVA.com540-605-9530 | [email protected] | Facebook.com/EvergreeneHomesPrestonLake a place to live but a way to PrestonLakeVA.com | Facebook.com/EvergreeneHomesPrestonLake live!a place to live but a way to live! 3935 Sunnyside Drive -Rob Cappellini Harrisonburg, VA 22801 CEO-Rob andCappellini Co-Founder CEO and Co-Founder 540.568.8411 or 800.237.2257 Shenandoah Living Magazine September October v2.indd 1 8/21/2015 2:28:11 PM www.SunnysideCommunities.com Shenandoah Living Magazine September October v2.indd 1 8/21/2015 2:28:11 PM www.SunnysideCommunities.com From the Publisher | Greg Shields SHENANDOAH From the Editor | Carol J. Alexander Random Thoughts Living PUBLISHER--Greg Shields Valiant Virginians My seamstress mother spent her life creating works of art with [email protected] fabric, trims, buttons, and more. Some of her art was wearable, some not. I remember a childhood of clients coming to our EDITOR--Carol J. Alexander home for fittings for everything from wedding gowns and prom [email protected] dresses to uniforms and everyday wear. A New Journey for Shenandoah Living PRODUCTION & DESIGN Mom made my wedding gown. She and my husband-to-be worked together to create Farago & Associates a crown of pearls on which to sew my veil. (I married a man who enjoys creating beautiful things, as well.) For 50 years I lived a spoiled existence. Whenever I saw something I From the very beginning, we had hoped Shenandoah Living could CIRCULATION--Greg Shields wanted, if I thought mom could make it, she would try—and succeed. When I was about Above the Shenandoah [email protected] 14, I wanted a bedroom ensemble from the Sears, Roebuck & Company catalog. Mom become a subscription-based magazine. We believe that time has copied it for my Christmas gift that year. I remember clothing, home décor and more that arrived. After two successful years, we have the foundation, reader- You have probably noticed on our Facebook page many of the CONTRIBUTORS she gifted me in that way. This month marks three years since my mother passed away, and ship and recognition to add a new subscription-based readership. A beautiful Valley aerial photographs posted on our timeline. We oc- Carol J Alexander still my home is filled with her art. Wall quilts, paintings, afghans, even coasters are daily subscription-based readership allows us to interact, build rapport and casionally publish similar aerial photos inside the magazine. Lynn Coffey reminders of a mother who valued beauty and taught her children to do the same. better know our readers. Knowing exactly who our readers are helps After accumulating well over 200 aerial photos of the Shenandoah Lani Furbank My husband and I have passed down this love of creativity to our children. One son is Rebekah Postupak an ornamental blacksmith; another is a woodworker. Our daughter creates masterpieces us seek opinions and target editorial interest. A paid readership also Valley, we want to share the very best of them in a new, 56-page Sara Tranum from such commonplace things as flour, butter, and eggs. Some folks call her creations builds advertiser confidence. With a paid readership, we can better book titled Above the Shenandoah. This new book is important to us cake, we call them art. All of our children make a joyful noise, but two especially excel in inform our advertisers as to who reads the magazine, why they read it for several reasons. In addition to showcasing the Valley’s beautiful PHOTOGRAPHY making melody with various instruments. Is it any wonder then, that surrounded with all and how they use the information inside landscape from above, proceeds will be used to support the mission Lani Furbank this creative energy and living in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, that I would THE MAGAZINE FOR PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN AND LOVE THE VAL Matt Schmachtenberg be thrilled to introduce you to Shenandoah Living’s Readers’ Choice Top 10 Artisans of the our magazine. of Valiant Virginians, a Virginia nonprofit 501c3. LEY Mark Segreti Valley? I don’t want to spoil the story, so make sure to check it out on page 40. SHENANDOAHNovember-December Valiant Virginians provides affordable, economical and reliable | Issue 25 When you think about art, this entire issue is full of it. Music lives in Rebekah Postupak’s FREE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE To begin the transition, we will transportation options to residents of the Shenandoah Valley. For Bells in the Valley. You can smell and taste edible art as Sarah Tranum tells how Ian Boden Ellen Kozicki startour new 2016 bi-monthly Living more information about Valiant Virginians, visit our website at of The Shack in Staunton would prepare a traditional holiday meal. And to learn how to “Holiday Traditons” [email protected] schedule with a Feb/Mar issue. www.valiantvirginians.org. create your own art to decorate your home for the holidays, read tips from Susan Kibler on Bells in the Valley in the Blueridge page 12. Advertisers and current subscribers After expenses, 100 percent of the proceeds from Above the STORY IDEAS will receive a direct mailing and Main Street Matters Shenandoah goes to Valiant Virginians. However, only 1,500 copies [email protected] One way that Valley folks support our local artisans is by supporting our Main Streets. Main Street Matters in the Valley, so say a host of business owners, Chamber of Commerce email update about our new Buena Vista will be printed; there will not be a second printing. So, to guarantee EVENTS officers and town officials. I enjoyed visiting six different towns with photographer Mark Middletown Segreti and capturing the essence of their Main Streets for you. You can read all about it, schedule. We will continue to Mt. Jackson that you get your copy of this unique book, act quickly. [email protected] New Market Buyers Club- Part 2 and what these folks have to say, on page 34. distribute as usual until we Whiffletree Farm and Heritage Hollow Farm Reserve your copy now for this limited printing of Above the have made the transition to paid Shenandoah by sending $25 (includes shipping) to Valiant Virgin- I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Shenandoah Living as much as I did putting it HOW TO REACH US together. Please visit the shops listed and see the artwork created by your neighbors. Take newsstands and paid subscribers. We will update you on our prog- ians, Above the Shenandoah, PO Box 269, Bridgewater, VA 22812. Phone: 540-746-1962 the kids to a bell concert, start a new holiday tradition, and wherever you go, spread peace ress in upcoming issues of Shenandoah Living magazine. Or you may order online by visiting our store at www.valiantvirgin- Editorial: 540-335-7364 and goodwill to your fellow man. ians.org. Above the Shenandoah will ship in early Spring. [email protected] [email protected] Blessings, Published bimonthly by Valiant Virginians First Annual Shifting Gears to 1965 Corvette Raffle Bridgewater, Virginiaand distributed throughout theShenandoah Valley of Virginia. Valiant Virginians has applied for a Gaming permit with the Virginia Department of Ag- Magazine is available at all Kroger, Food Lion P.S. I would love to hear from you! Email your comments or story ideas to carol@shenan- and Martin grocery stores from Lexington to doahmagazine.com. riculture and Charitable Gaming seeking permission to raffle a 1965 Corvette in 2016. Winchester. See website for other locations Raffling is the quickest (and hardest) path to building immediate revenue for a non- www.shenandoahmagazine.com. profit. Over a six-month period, we intend to sell 2,500 tickets for $100 each. It won’t Copyright © 2015. Reproduction without be easy and it will be an uphill journey but organizations do it all the time. The Ronald permission is prohibited. All unsolicited submissions become the Contributing Photographers McDonald House, St. Judes, the SPCA, these folks have something we do not--BRAND property of Shenandoah Living Magazine Mark Segreti is a Matt Schmachtenberg is a recent and a network of supporters. But we have a large network of Shenandoah Living read- and cannot be returned. homeschool senior JMU grad, medical school hope- Submissions chosen for publication ers, loads of community support and the grit to climb that hill. If we pull it off, it will who has a passion for ful, and has been shooting for may be edited for length or clarity. be a life changing event for everyone involved. It means more (AND BETTER) cars photography, play- seven years! He loves natural light Shenandoah Living is a registered for those in need and economic stability for Valiant Virginians and Shenandoah Living. ing the bass guitar, and candid moments. You’ll usu- trademark of Valiant Virginians. reading, hiking and ally find him with a film camera in More info and photos on page 14 and 15. Like us on Facebook. camping one hand and digital in the other.

After all...to help people...it really is all about the money! The money! Correction: The BBQ Ranch covered in the September issue is located at 3311 N. Valley Pike in Harrisonburg. We failed to share the location in the article. Our apologies. – Editor 4 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/DecemberNovember/December 2015 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 1 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 5 VISIT OUR LOCALLY OWNED SHOPS FOR . . . 22 • Homemade Fudge • Jams & Pie Fillings • Bulk Foods Contents • Cheeses • Candies • Kitchenwares • Country-Style Cafe NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2015 • Gifts • Books • Crafts • Fabrics • Western • Army Surplus • Civil War • Toys • Antiques • Storage Buildings • Plants and Produce (in season) & so much more!!!! OPEN MONDAY FRIDAY: 10 AM TO 6 PM SATURDAY: 9 AM TO 6 PM • SUNDAY CLOSED

elmuth Rent to Own, uilders 90 Days Same 17 12 Building to Serve Since 1989 as Cash. Largest kitchen specialty store in the Valley 540-438-8344 15% OFFOFF Expires 12/31/2015 Expires 12/31/14 540.833.BARN | www.helmuthbuilders.com MayMay not not be be combined combined with with17 other other coupons coupons. Mention this ad and receive 5% off your purchase. 40 26 8 SHANES H/V 540-437-1901 Around the Valley Features Come shop with Try our Hot In Every Issue the cowboys! Pumpkin Latte or Caramel Cider 8 Take-5 40 Holiday Gift-Buying Guide • WESTERN Greg Cromer: America from the Sky. and Favorite Artists Publisher/Editor Letters...... 4/5 HATS Letters to Editor...... 11 • BOOTS We asked you, our readers, to nomi- Valiant Virginians...... 14 & APPAREL Try a Real, Fresh, nate your favorite Valley artists. Here • TACK AND 12 Home are the Top 10. That Shenandoah Feeling...... 49 Never-frozen, Holiday Decorating with Susan Kibler. TICKET...... 48 HORSE 100% Angus SUPPLIES Beef Burger 22 History: Holiday [email protected] Have a lunch hot off the grill, 17 Farm Traditions in the Blue Ridge www.shanesshbarv.com 540.433.3401 Buyer’s Club, Part 2. Lynn Coffey shares holiday memories made fresh to order! from years past. COVER Blue Barn in the Blue Ridge For your ad in this space 20 Food contact Roadside Produce & Market Traditional Holiday Food with a Modern 26 Bells in the Valley Twist. There are many bells up and down the (540) 438-1886 Valley, most with long and storied Fresh Produce ❖ Scentsy ❖ Kite’s Ham histories, including original church bell Handmade Dish Cloths towers constructed in the 1700s whose “Think chimes can still be heard daily. Fresh”

34 Main Street Matters Ellen In addition to beautiful mountains, farmland and [email protected] Rt. 11 S. Harrisonburg rivers, the Shenandoah Valley is known for its Main Street communities. Many of the Valley’s downtowns I-81, Ex 243, 1 mi S. on US 11 • 121 Carpenter Lane are on the state and national historic registers. Harrisonburg, VA 22801 540-433-3929 • www.ShenandoahMarket.net

6 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 7 People | A Different View Greg Cromer Story By Greg Shields | Photos By Greg Cromer STORY BY Greg Shields BACKGROUND PHOTO: Greg Cromer’s New Market 1. You are very popular in and out of (Thank you for not asking if I use on my website. There’s not an online the Valley. When did you start selling drones, which I don’t. I need to fly order form yet, but customers can call aerial photographs of the Valley and higher than drones are allowed to go.) me to order. Also, the Dayton Farmer’s how did you decide this was the busi- Market on Route 42 carries several of ness for you? The airport closest to the job at hand my local prints. Outside of the shows, is usually the one from which I’ll fly. I do quite a bit of door-to-door mar- After I started flying, it got a little old The camera is in my hands at all keting to the businesses in the towns just flying around the airport pattern. times, and photos are shot through an that I’ve photographed. It takes a lot Something was needed to justify the open window. of work, but it’s what I love doing so it expense of renting a plane. So, taking doesn’t seem like work – most days. the camera with me and taking some Once the flight is over, the photos photos for friends and family seemed are downloaded to my computer. 5. Do you take custom photos upon to make sense. In the summer of 2008, I sift through the hundreds, if not request? the aerial photo thing was still mostly thousands, of photos from that day’s a hobby when I saw the cross on the flight. This is done right away, so I can Absolutely! There is a form on my mountain overlooking Broadway. I remember where every photo was website that makes it easy for people took the photo and showed Broad- taken. Once the “keepers” are selected, to show me exactly where their prop- way’s mayor. He bought a print as well I do some minor editing using Adobe erty is located. In addition to homes as invited me to exhibit at their street Photoshop. The usual steps are crop, and businesses, a large part of my Take festival. Several dozen people bought straighten, enhance contrast and color flying is to take monthly construction that first print at the festival, and folks and occasionally do some editing to progress photos of hospitals, shop- from neighboring towns asked if I had remove unwanted items from the ping centers, hotels, schools, etc. I their town too. That’s what started the photo. ( i.e. bad patches of grass, tools do a fair amount of work for Valley America from the Sky collection. My or toys in yards, water on driveway, Health and Shockey, as well as some primary goal is to photograph every autos, etc.) Once the photo is ready, of the local water treatment plants in town in Virginia, West Virginia and my 44” Epson 9800 Photo Printer is the region. 5 Maryland, with other places across used to generate the print. Greg Cromer’s the country as any jobs or personal in- 6. Were you born an raised in the Val- terest take me there. Currently, there 3. Do you have a pilot’s license and ley? If so, what is your connection to are almost 2,000 photos of places in own your own plane? the Valley? 16 states but if it wasn’t for that cross, America from this collection probably wouldn’t exist. Yes, on having the license; but no on I was born in Hagerstown, Md. and the plane. I used to own a share of an grew up in Williamsport, Md. My 2. Your photos are quite unique. Most antique stick and rudder taildragger. grandmother lived in Winchester, and everyone is curious as to how you My (then) teenaged kids flew back- was the acting librarian at the Hand- take these beautiful photos. Would seat and steadied the plane while I ley Library. She was instrumental the Sky you explain the process of how you took photos. After they grew up and in having the children’s wing added take aerial photographs from start to left home, and as my collection grew, there. From falling in love with Win- first discovered Greg Cromer at the Elkton Autumn Days finish? it made more sense to simply rent a chester from visiting my grandma, I Arts and Crafts Festival. Greg has a most unusual business plane and pilot nearest to the job at attended Shenandoah Conservatory of showcasing America from the Sky. You can meet up with The start begins with planning. hand. of Music from 1982-86, and then was I Google Earth is used to “pre-fly” my a band director for five years before Greg at many of the Valley’s arts and crafts festivals. He has flight route, identify all my targets 4. If a customer is unable to meet switching careers to the world of ad- been most generous to Valiant Virginians (501c3 nonprofit) and sometimes discover something up with you at Valley arts and crafts vertising. Once I moved to Frederick new. I’m always the photographer, events, how else could they buy an County, that’s where I’ve stayed. Well, and Shenandoah Valley by allowing us to showcase some but when the camera is in my hands, aerial photo? except for the 80,000+ miles in my car of his photos of Stanley, New Market and Lexington on our a commercial-rated pilot is flying the every year. Facebook page and in the magazine. I most recently ran into airplane. Almost every photo is now displayed

Greg at the 2015 Brycefest, Bryce Resort, Basye, Virginia. To see more aerial photos from Greg Cromer, please visit our Facebook page.

8 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 9 People | A Different View Greg Cromer “I came to Dr. Cucé desperate for help. Since my surgery, I can walk without pain and am finally getting my life back.” —Kathy, double hip replacement

Get back to the life you love. Call 689-5500 today; no referral needed. SENTARA RMH ORTHOPEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE

sentara.com Your community not-for-profit health partner

7. In your opinion, what makes the Valley such a special place? out-of-towners heading to West Virginia University. WHERE HISTORY RUNS The Shenandoah Valley is simply a beautiful place. The Seven DEEP It’s been great doing a mall show at Christmas time, because 60th Anniversary Bends of the Shenandoah River and Big Schloss are two of our so many people have hard-to-buy-for folks on their list. If that best-kept secrets. (Yes, I have a photo!) Beyond these, there are someone loves their town, college or a scenic attraction an so many places to sightsee, great restaurants, living history and aerial photo of that place makes a wonderful gift. shopping. However, if you want something to do or see that Grottoes, VA can’t be found here, it’s probably only an hour or two drive to 9. What do your customers tell you? 1.888.430.CAVE wherever you want to go. www.myersford.com I get such wonderful feedback from my customers. Last year, 540-298-1271 GRAND 8. What are your favorite arts and crafts events in the Valley? a photo was bought to give to a dying brother who had moved Serving the Valley Since 1954 CAVERNS away and hadn’t been “home” in decades. The brother’s wife Family Owned and Operated A National Natural Landmark The Highland County Maple Festival in Monterey starts off my www.grandcaverns.com told me he looked at that picture every day, talking about the Elkton, Va. Route 33 year with great maple syrup and donuts. Winchester’s Apple memories. Several of my photos have been sent to the Middle Blossom Festival is a biggie. I always enjoy going back to Broad- East. It gives me great pleasure when I hear that my work has way, where the collection started. Bryce Resort has become my given someone, but especially one of our soldiers, a window to Fourth of July tradition because it is so beautiful there; even the home. drive getting there is special. Posey Thisisit Llamas At the end of the day, when people ask me what I do for a living, Have fun learning Honestly, I’d have to name all of the festivals, because going has about with Llama and I can certainly say that I’m an aerial photographer working on a Llamas always been my favorite weekend activity, even before I started ex- Sheep Wool ! massive collection of local and scenic places. But my legacy is to Spinning hibiting. As my collection expands, I’m always looking for different spark someone’s memories out of these photos and make them Oct. 10th, 10am to 3pm Our Annual Open Barn places, so next year I might be a little harder to find here locally. TOURS BY APPOINTMENT smile. That’s the best thing. • SHEARING • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • For example, I’ll be exhibiting inside the Country Club Mall near HAND SPUN ITEMS AVAILABLE Cumberland, Md. for the entire month of December. That location www.poseythisisitllamas.com Greg Cromer’s website is www.americafromthesky.com pulls from a wide area and is a favorite stopping point for lots of 754 Harrisville Road, Toms Brook, VA 22660 (540) 436-3517 [email protected] 10 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 11 Main Street Matters on Route 11 LETTERS Editor:

Thank you for representing the Valley and telling the stories of our small towns. Travel- ers on I-81 never know the true Shenandoah Valley unless they exit off to Route 11 and visit our small towns and villages. To really feel the Valley, keep driving towards any backroad, holler or gravel road. May I sug- gest exiting at New Market and traveling south on Rt. 11. If you are adventurous, take any back road off Rt. 11 to feel the real the Shenandoah Valley.

Kimberly Wilford, via [email protected] Woodstock Cafe & Shoppes along Main Street, Woodstock. Photo by Mark Segreti. Main Street shops, Front Royal. Photo by Mark Segreti.

Editor:

I just picked up a copy of the Shenando- ah Living magazine and was pleased to see that you ran my Mercedes story. I’m sure the friends of Dick Robertson, that read it, will be reminded of his support and the many contributions to his community. Being a glider pilot and having flown out of Eagles nest airport, I also enjoyed the well done soaring story. As a downtown Staunton resident and business owner, it was also good to see the story on David Schwartz and his Camera Public Library and Town Hall along Main Street, Mt. Jackson. Photo by Mark Segreti. Heritage Museum. Keep up the good work!

Regards, Al Morkunas, aka Al Marankas (STAUNTON) Main Street shops, Front Royal. Photo by Mark Segreti.

Banners along Magnolia Avenue, Buena Vista. Photo by Mark Segreti. Ace’s Attic along Magnolia Avenue, Buena Vista. Photo by Mark Segreti. The Wayside Inn along Route 11, Middletown. Photo by Mark Segreti. Main Street shops, Front Royal. Photo by Mark Segreti. 12 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 13 Home | Holiday Decorating

CHEST PREVENT DISCOMFORT HEART DISEASE eat heart-healthy food great CaRING TEaM HEART PALPITATIONS outco m e s OF EXPERTS SHORTNESS OF BREATH CALL 911 early intervention cpr ARM, NECK, BACK OR JAW PAIN set healthy goals electrophysiology lower blood pressure nauseaopen blockages GREAT CHEST PAIN CENTER DOCTORS reduce stress heart attack risk program reduce your risk and aVaIlaBlE 24/7 set healthy HEART ATTACK! CPR prolong your life! GOALS EECP medical CALL 911! CATHETERIZATION LAB CALL 911! cardiology minimally invasive techniques Heart & Vascular Center at Winchester Medical Center FATIGUE available 24/7 HEART ATTACK! CALL 911! non-invasive cardiovascular diagnostics P hoto courtesy of S usan K ibler . set healthy Greenery, burlap, and a banner made with jute twine and paper triangles CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE CLINICGOALS CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY heartaware risk assessment highlight this doorway for the holidays. CARING TEAM OF EXPERTS RADIAL ARTERY CATHETERIZATION CHEST PAIN The key is to start with that base piece, such as a ladder or a wooden box, CPR electrophysiology CENTER vascular and endovascular treatment tobacco lath, even a wooden tool box or metal watering can—anything you interventional cardiology Decking CARDIAC REHABILITATION might have lying around your house or barn. Next, Susan said she thinks about comprehensive cardiovascular services what colors or theme she wants, and she starts gathering supplies, like homespun cardiothoracic surgery GREAT DOCTORS fabric or metal stars. PREVENT HEART DISEASE “I think a lot about elevation and dimension,” said Susan. “One of my secrets is great outcomes FATIGUE A few discarded kitchen utensils come together with a stuffing containers with floral foam from the dollar store, and bunching Spanish CPR the candle and pumpkin to decorate this table for the holidays. moss around the top.” She completes the look by adding berries, or Styrofoam balls wrapped in homespun fabric, and uses wires to stick them in the floral foam. Photo courtesy of Susan Kibler. A look she often creates these days involves burlap. Halls “People are crazy about burlap now,” said Susan, which she said can be found She laughed at my question and pointed to pumpkins sitting easily at flea markets and craft stores. She in a gorgeous serving tray. “Walmart, 98 cents,” she said. often wraps boxes and jars in the burlap; That chic antique bread box on the counter? “Goodwill, $6,” she even makes wreaths out of it, such as her wildly popular Virginia said Susan, “and it’s only antique-looking.” Tech-themed burgundy and orange ones. STORY BY REBEKAH POSTUPAK The joy in Susan’s voice conveys a love not just of the result, but the entire love Thanksgiving and Christmas decora- pumpkins sitting in a gorgeous serving tray. creation process. But loving decorating doesn’t mean her eventual expertise came tions, especially the homey, warm look of “Walmart, 98 cents,” she said. without struggle. Winchester Medical Center’s team of dedicated pumpkins and cranberries in centerpieces That chic antique bread box on the counter? “I was never any good at following patterns,” Susan admitted. “I would just try heart professionals is available 24/7 to offer and wreaths, and on front porches. “Goodwill, $6,” said Susan, “and it’s only to figure it out on my own. Honestly, I learn best by trial and error. Nowadays, the life-saving care for heart attack patients. IMake that other people’s centerpieces, wreaths, antique-looking.” She explained that she always ideas are mostly out of my own head.” and porches. keeps an eye out for interesting pieces to serve as The crucial thing for a beginner like me, Susan said, is the same lesson she Sad but true: I’m not a decorator. Beyond the base of a display or decoration. To pull off the learned herself: don’t be afraid to try something. “Look around on Pinterest, You- Heart attacks have beginnings. If recognized in a cheap ceramic vase plopped forlornly in the antique look for this bread box, she first stained Tube, and Facebook for design ideas. People are so friendly and are happy to tell time, these beginnings can be treated before middle of my dining table, each season I find it and sprayed it with chippy distressed paint; you how to make something. You’ll learn tips like how to conserve fabric, or how too much damage is done. It’s important to know myself helpless to dress up my home. So this year then, after it had dried, she smeared petroleum to make a wreath look fuller.” I turned to an expert, Susan Kibler of Primitives jelly around the knob and corners and applied Susan said decorating is abundantly worth the effort. “It’s that longing for the subtle warning signs of a heart attack and Handcrafted by Susan, who lives in Mt. Jackson. a second coat of the chippy paint. To finish, all yesteryear, for a simpler time,” she said. “Everything was more handcrafted then, to act upon these early symptoms immediately. Susan’s home reminds me of those homes, the she had to do was wipe off the paint where she’d and people put time and diligence into making things. There is a charm about it ones splashed across designer home magazines. spread the petroleum jelly. Voila! The box sprang we today are constantly chasing.” • Friendly scenes top her cabinets; wicker baskets back in time fifty years. dangle merrily from the ceiling; artfully crafted Susan said she makes her best finds at thrift A branch from a discarded, artificial tree turns into a Primitives Handcrafted by Susan, including items customized by request, can be found displays snuggle on her counters. Everything’s stores. “There’s a real thrill in running across stunning tabletop tree when decorated with burlap and at All Things Virginia at the Farmhouse in Woodstock, Carmella’s Café in Edinburg, Call 911. perfect. And expensive, right? something like an expensive Longaberger plate primitive ornaments. and Chickadees Artist Gallery in New Market. Susan’s creations can also be found online at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/primsbysusan She laughed at my question and pointed to for just 20 cents,” she said.

14 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 15 Providing economical and reliable transportation options to residents of the Shenandoah Valley Valiant Virginians 540-746-1962 BY GREG SHIELDS www.valiantvirginians.org [email protected] ABOVE THE SHENANDOAH With this Subaru, the devil Aerial Photography Showcasing the Shenandoah Valley is in the details..... We rarely receive donated cars like the 2005 Subaru Limited you see in the photo below. It is newer than most VV: It is ok. You are very welcome. Pay It Forward? of our donated cars and it has low miles. Paint and interior are in excellent condition. This is one fine looking Subaru. The call came in like most other calls. Caller: (begins to cry): I promise to PAY IT FOR- WARD. The blue book value of this vehicle is $5,900. A Valley So what’s the catch? It has a blown super charger. Caller: Is this Valiant Virginians? Yes, the fantastic automobile has a blown super charger. VV: I know you will. Estimated expense to repair it is about $1,600. So what with a View! VV: Yes. do we do? Fix it and “gift it” to someone. Or, do we sell Caller: I will PAY IT FORWARD. I promise you (almost crying again). it and use the money to purchase a more practical car Caller: I read your column in Shenandoah Living for someone. I discussed each option with the donor. He and I am hoping you can help me. I lost my job and believes it would be more practical to sell the Subaru my car is broken down. I finally have a new job and And so it goes. Within three days, Rick’s Towing hauled this old 1993 black S10 extended cab to the and use the funds to purchase a low maintenance econo- A page, now I can’t get to work. I will take anything you have mical vehicle. From his viewpoint, the Subaru requires a 56 to offer. Can you please help me? beautiful little town of Woodstock. Old to us. New to the caller. higher level of maintenance than say a...Toyota Corolla, beautifully presented Honda Civic or Ford Escape. Use the money to buy one No matter how many times this call comes in, my feelings of those cars. book of aerial are the same. I know that Valiant Virginians does not have Getting it there was not without incident. I could not find the keys. After hours of searching, I finally At this date, the car is for sale in “as in” condition. If the perfect solution for this caller. If we happen to have you fix the super charger, the price is $3,200. If you can photographs that a car, it is usually very old and pushing the outer limits. gave up. I grabbed the title and drove into Bow- man’s Chevrolet in Harrisonburg. Using the Vehicle find an economical repair for the super charger, this could Even worse, we may not have a car and the wait to find be a good deal for both parties. capture the Valley one may take months. But we always find a way. This Identification Number (VIN), Bowman’s was able particular caller lived in Woodstock and needed transpor- to make an ignition key and door key right on the as it’s never been tation into Strasburg. All we had was a black extended cab spot. $31.00...a bargain to me. I rushed back to 1993 S10 Chevy pickup with 98,283 miles. Actually, this Bridgewater and tried the key. A perfect fit. But… seen before. is low mileage compared to most of our cars. Not really a the battery was dead. No time to buy a new one as family car, but it starts, runs and was practically rust free. the tow truck was on its way. We wrote a $75 check After pointing out it’s flaws, I offered the caller this truck. to the giftee and placed it in on the passenger seat to purchase a new battery. It would be the only thing Published by Caller: You would give me that truck? new on this old Chevy S10. Like a rock. Valiant Virginians

VV: Yes, we would. Although the deed was done, I was full of apprehen- sion. I know that pick up won’t last long. I can only hope it lasts until the recipient is back on her feet. Only 1,500 copies will be printed. Caller: How much will it cost me? On Cover of Motor Trend To reserve and guarantee your copy now, send $25 (includes shipping) to Valiant Virginians, December 1975 VV: Nothing. It is free. But I am tired. Tired of feeling helpless to offer a more long-term solution. We need to do something Above the Shenandoah, PO Box 269, Bridgewater, VA 22812. Or pay online now by visiting about it. Subaru Limited, 98,000 miles, Automatic our store at www.valiantvirginians.org. Caller: (period of silence). Thank you so much. I AC, Power Everything and Sunroof. can’t believe you would do that for me. Thank you so much! I don’t know what to say or how to ever OFFERS WELCOME thank you. email cars@ valiantvirginians.org WIN This 1965 Corvette Coupe!

The Solution: Shifting Gears to 1965 Corvette Raffle 1965 Corvette Coupe with FACTORY ORIGINAL NUMBERS MATCHING 327-300 4-speed Manual Teak Wheel t takes money and manpower to help people quickest, hardest and most unpredictable path story and sell them a ticket. The search for these in need. Right now, we have little of either. We to building immediate revenue for any non- 2,500 ticket holders and one big winner will Ineed more cars. We need better cars. Where profit. Over a six month period, Valiant Virginians begin as soon as our permit is issued. will the money come from? The chances of a intends to sell 2,500 tickets for $100 each. It will small, newly-formed nonprofit such as Valiant be an uphill journey; but other organizations do Stay tuned to our website and the magazine for Virginians receiving a grant or major donation it all the time. The Ronald McDonald House, St. more information. We will document and journal are slim. It would be naive on our part to believe Judes, the SPCA, these folks have something we our story and keep you updated in each issue Blue Leather Interior 5 Factory Original Kelsey Knock-Offs that we could get a grant or that some hero on do not--brand and network of supporters. But we of Shenandoah Living. In the next issue, we will a white horse will trot to our aid. We need bet- do have Shenandoah Living readers and word of share the full details, raffle dates and how you ter cars. We need more cars. We need money. mouth of the few good, yet modest deeds, we can become the lucky winner out of the 2,500 Since Valiant Virginians is not in the business of complete. It won’t be easy. people who want to WIN THIS CORVETTE. Are directly asking for money (we only chase donated you that chosen one in 2,500? You could be. cars) we have applied for a Gaming permit with Are there really 2,500 individuals in the Common- First, just like Valiant Virginians, you must believe. the Virginia Department of Agriculture and wealth of Virginia who would purchase a $100 Have you visualized becoming the winner? If you Charitable Gaming seeking permission to raffle a ticket to win this Corvette? Certainly. With a little have, take a peek on the next page of what you 1965 Corvette Stingray Coupe (valued at $75,000) over 8 million residents in the Commonwealth, will win. One in 2,500…pretty good odds if you to earn money. Raffling a valuable item is the we simply need to find those 2,500 folks, tell our ask me. You just gotta believe! Only 75,000 miles with Factory Air, Power Windows, Power Brakes and Power Steering Nasau Blue 16 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 17 Farming |

Don’t settle for the rest when you can have the best! Stop in to James River Equipment and experience a full line of John Deere solutions. With convenient features like drive-over mower decks that offer quick attachment/detachment without ever leaving your seat, Twin Touch™ pedals for ease of use, and hydrostatic transmission for increased maneuverability, you’ll get chores done quickly and easily so you can get on with your day.

Turkeys at Whiffletree Farm

ollowing in Polyface’s footsteps, two Virginia farms have borrowed the principles of the Metropolitan Buying Club and tweaked them to fit the specific needs of their business and their customers. With a simple delivery model and large Finventory, these buying clubs are a unique way to source sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients for your family’s holiday feast. Part 2: Mike and Molly Peterson bought Heri- JAMES The tage Hollow Farm in October 2013, after RIVER several years of working with the previous SAVED ME owner. Buying clubs had been a part of with equipment that’s built to work and priced to sell. the farm’s business model since 2002, Buyers Club but the Petersons found an even more efficient way to share their food with customers. STORY BY LANI FURBANK Between busy schedules and harrowing traffic, the trips from Sper- PHOTOGRAPHY BY LANI FURBANK & WHIFFLETREE FARM ryville to the Washington, D.C. area were taking up too much valuable Ask about time. “You’re not farming, you’re delivering,” Mike noticed. GREAT PRICING and FINANCING OPTIONS! In Part 1, we explained how Polyface Farm’s Their solution was to install freezers in CrossFit gyms in D.C. and Arlington. The Petersons deliver their product before rush hour, and Metropolitan Buying Club has helped boost their customers can pick up their prepaid orders at any time that fits with Edinburg ��540-984-3337 customer base and expand their reach to cities all their schedule. 150 JOHN MANVILLE DRIVE • M-F 8:00AM-5:00PM | SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM “Really, when we tweaked all of those routes, it changed our world around the state. This issue we want to look at how What will you SAVE at James River? Harrisonburg �� 540-434-4457 dramatically,” Mike said. “We got a lot of time back.” 1332 GARBERS CHURCH ROAD • M-F 8:00AM-5:00PM | SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM their model is helping other farms do the same. It works out for Arlington gym owner Brian Wilson, too, because the JamesRiverEquipment.com Fishersville �� 540-337-3057 98 EXPO ROAD • M-F 7:00AM-5:30PM | SAT 8:00AM-1:00PM November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 19 “People want high-quality, teamed up with Belle Meade Farm to offer pastured turkeys for Thanksgiving. well-raised meat and eggs, Jesse Straight of Whiffletree Farm in Warrenton also offers products from fellow farmers, but he’s taken it several but also, most people steps further. He’s transformed his buying club into a hub for healthy, local products. really value convenience Straight started his farm business in 2009, and he has because of their busy grown to serve 13 buying clubs in Virginia and D.C. He not only offers customers his own pasture-raised meats (includ- lives. So if they can have a ing popular holiday selections such as turkeys, hams, prime rib and pork loin roasts), but he also delivers everything from lot of things in one place, Christmas trees to apples. Last year, Straight partnered with Oak Shade Farm in then that’s really valuable Culpeper to deliver organically raised Serbian Spruce, Norway to them,” Straight said. Spruce, and Blue Spruce trees to families in his buyers clubs. Other holiday favorites include organic apples and apple- A fury cow at Heritage Hollow Farm. sauce from the Farm at Sunnyside in Washington, Va., organic sourdough bread from a local baker, and a variety of organic Paleo diet is one of the main tenets of the CrossFit vegetables from Powers Farm in Warrenton. lifestyle. “I think what’s really synergistic about it Straight doesn’t make much of a profit from the items is that part of what we tell our clients to do is eat he sells for his friends, and keeping up with the inventory this pasture-raised, beyond organic meat,” he said. and coordinating pick-ups from each producer is no easy Jennifer Brooks Lassiter, a friend and customer task. However, he enjoys sharing products he trusts with his of Heritage Hollow, is partly to thank for this ar- customers. rangement. As a former CrossFit coach, Lassiter “People want high-quality, well-raised meat and eggs, but made the introductions to help the gyms offer a also, most people really value convenience because of their unique service to their members, while allowing busy lives. So if they can have a lot of things in one place, then the Petersons to save valuable time. that’s really valuable to them,” Straight said. “I know how much work they do on the farm, Selling products from other farms also helps to build the and it takes a really long time for them to load the customer base for Whiffletree. With so many products to Laying hens at Whiffletree Farm. A calf at Heritage Hollow Farm. truck up and drive out here,” Lassiter explained. choose from, people are more likely to try the club, and even- “I was trying to think about a way that they could tually become a repeat customer. do it that would be kind of time-sensitive to their Alexa Hutchins, a buying club host, has tried almost all workload.” of the offerings from other vendors, but she has remained It’s not just the food that Lassiter values. “For a loyal customer for over six years because of the quality of us it was really about wanting to have a relation- Whiffletree’s meat. “Everyone still talks about the year we ship with the people that were feeding our family,” bought a fresh turkey from him,” she recalled. “It was the best she said. “It means so much to me that they make turkey any of us have ever eaten! We have gotten nothing but time to know us as customers and as friends.” rave reviews about it all.” That’s the connection she showcases during Straight enjoys that his sustainable, local meat has become her holiday dinners. “We purchase from Mike and a big part of his customers’ traditions. His philosophy? “If we Molly because we trust how they raise their ani- are going to celebrate the holidays by sharing good things mals, we know the meat will be the most delicious with our loved ones, let’s make sure those good things are of any meat we purchase in a store, and it’s the truly good for us and for all other parties involved, start to most nutrient-dense, clean food to feed the family.” fini sh .” Heritage Hollow offers a limited supply of hams That’s why Nikki Flory buys her Christmas roast from and roasts, including prime rib, tenderloin, lamb Whiffletree. “I love a good pot roast or standing rib roast,” crown, pork crown and leg of lamb. “Those are she said. “I also love knowing I am feeding my family healthy all specialty cuts I wouldn’t necessarily keep in meat.” And it’s always been a hit. “My family and extended TOP: Molly Peterson with a lamb at Heritage Hollow Farm. our inventory as they have limited use aside from family that come over for Christmas dinner always tell me Jesse Straight at Whiffletree’s Centreville Buying Club drop. BOTTOM: A pretty pig at Heritage Hollow Farm? holiday gatherings,” Mike said. They have also how good the meat is. There are no leftovers!” •

moist turkey may still be the centerpiece. Holiday After a visit to The Shack in dinner chefs from the mid-19th century basted Staunton, Chef Ian Boden with lard rather than with the drippings in the pan, cooking it in less than two hours. Today’s has provided inspiration chef should cook a brined bird ten to fifteen A Traditional for holiday dinners that pay minutes per pound at 325 degrees. The secret to a moist turkey is in the brine. Much like the brine homage to the traditional used to preserve pork by early Valley residents, foods of Shenandoah putting your holiday turkey in a brine for 12-24 hours increases the water content in the meat. Holiday Meal Valley residents but in a Cooked properly, this translates to moist and tender. That beautifully browned skin can be eas- STORY BY SARA TRANUM presentation to excite PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT SCHMACHTENBERG ily achieved, not by basting, but with a coating of contemporary palates. soft butter. Foods available in the winter months included root vegetables, preserved foods such as pickles n a cool, crisp Christmas eve- or rehydrated fruit. Hominy was a staple in the ning, the sun sets low, its warm diet of early Valley residents; corn was dried, orange glow slipping behind the treated with an alkalizing agent such as lye or Appalachian range, and the smell lime and then stored. ofO a wood-burning fire beckons from inside. Consider adding one of several dishes featured Stepping back one hundred-sixty years, into at The Shack to a holiday meal menu: Roasted the home of a family in the Shenandoah carrots and peppers with carrot puree, or peas Valley, the holiday dinner awaits on a table and hominy prepared as a stew. Mashed pota- dressed with fragrant evergreen boughs. Set toes continue to find a place on holiday tables. in the center is a roast turkey, flanked by cold Classically made, they require butter, salt and boiled ham and an oyster pie. From around cream. Healthier versions use non-fat buttermilk the table wafts aromas of mashed potatoes, and a sharp cheddar cheese. Mash promptly with turnips, boiled onions with a dressing of a hand-masher and serve promptly for the best celery sauce, and the salty, vinegary scent texture. from a dish of pickles. Pitchers of sweet cider Finally, the dessert. Traditionally, desserts were and mincemeat pies for dessert complete the tart and served as palate cleansers, or heavy and menu for a holiday dinner celebration. savory such as a mincemeat pie. Plum pudding Fast-forward to present day and most was a popular dessert option. Incorporating kitchens are without the stone hearth and plums for modern preparation, one could prepare roasting spit used by the chefs of early Valley a dessert like the spiced plums, also featured at residents. For most contemporary holiday The Shack. Prepare by halving the plums, add dinner cooks, planning a traditional meal sugar, butter, star anise and cook until tender including a boiled or spit-roasted protein is at about 400 degrees. Serve warm with a vanilla either unappealing or impossible. The rest of Greek yogurt and crumbled Nilla wafers. Prefer the menu is no different. After a visit to The a pie? In the same dish as the plums, place two Shack in Staunton, Chef Ian Boden has pro- large apples cut into cubes, plus more butter and vided inspiration for holiday dinners that pay sugar. Roast until the fruit is soft, cover the dish homage to the traditional foods of Shenan- with pastry dough. Make a few slices through the doah Valley residents but in a presentation to dough and bake for about twenty minutes. excite contemporary palates. Round out the meal with your beverages of First, the protein. A perfectly browned, choice and cheers to a happy holiday season! • TOP: Chef Boden plates heirloom grits on clay dishes made by his wife. LEFT: A spiced plum and corn crisp dessert BOTTOM: The Shack is roughly 400 square feet in its entirety - Many thanks to Karen Becker, Misti Furr and GiGi Kelly of the sits on the line to be delivered. Frontier Culture Museum in the crafting of this story! including the kitchen space.

That Christmas I attempted to re-create his mother’s cake. When I walked through the woods to Johnny’s house and The presented it to him, he began to weep. He said it was the first Blue Ridge one he’d had since his mother died. Christmas Traditions in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Lynn Coffey shares Blue Ridge holiday memories from years past.

STORY BY LYNN COFFEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNN COFFEE AND PC BLACKLEY

candle in the window and pine real beauty, wielding a hand saw, and held on boughs on the sill evoke fond for dear life as the cut portion tumbled to the memories of a simple Christmas ground. The tree was so massive we had to cut the early mountain people cel- it three more times to get it in the house. We Aebrated in the Blue Ridge. Pleasures of being strung garlands of popcorn to decorate the at home with family and friends, sitting tree along with red plaid bows, candy canes, around the fire eating the coveted holiday and white doves cut from the front of Christ- oranges and nuts, and perhaps enjoying a mas cards. We trooped to the woods in search toast of homemade wine, made Christmas of running cedar to place on the mantle and a relaxed, happy time of year. While reading shot mistletoe out of the tops of oak trees to Luke’s account of the birth of Christ in the hang in hopes of a holiday kiss. By the world’s Bible, everyone listened with rapt attention standards, the decorations in the camp were as the miracle of His coming unfolded. These plain but it was thrilling to be carrying on and many other early traditions passed down some of the early customs the mountain through the years make Christmas in Virginia’s people told us about. Blue Ridge Mountains unique. Hazel Campbell Fitzgerald, whose fam- Upon moving to the little hamlet of Love ily lived on Hat Creek, said they took the in 1980, I was determined to make our first silver paper from inside cigarette packs and Christmas memorable by keeping these tradi- wrapped it around sycamore balls to make tions alive. We lived in a rustic hunting camp tree ornaments. “Mama and Daddy would go with a high ceiling and I wanted a tall tree to down to Tommy Carter’s store and buy each of fill one corner of the living room. My neigh- us kids a little toy of some kind,” she said. “Us bor, Gladys Coffey, offered for us to cut the girls usually got a baby doll but I remember top out of one of the huge blue spruce trees once I got a little wind-up tin toy where a dog on their property. I shinnied up the trunk of a chased a cat and the cat chased a fish. I don’t PHOTO PC BLACKLEY

24 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 25 Tressia Coffey reading the Christmas story in Apple butter cake Lynn baked for Johnny John Massie Coffey Vera Coffey Falls at home in Vesuvius Luke’s gospel

know whatever happened to that toy, but I wish I would and then they had them, in turn, come Vera Falls, one of nine children who “On Christmas have hung on to it.” for a meal at their cabin. He said fresh grew up along the North Fork of the Tye Sending Christmas cards was just as popular a tradition oranges and peppermint sticks were River, said her mother did a lot of baking morning the boxes in earlier years as it is today. Many beautifully embossed, treats they only got during the Christmas at Christmas. “She’d bake cakes, pies and holiday postcards were sent with just a one-cent stamp. I season and he remembers receiving very donuts for us,” she said. would have oranges, found several, dated in the 1930s, among my late mother- few toys, usually given by a relative. Vera also shared how, in the fall, the in-law’s possessions. School programs, given by the children, children would all get a new pair of shoes. nuts and candy in Another neighbor, Johnny Coffey, said he always looked were also popular in the mountains. My “Then, we’d save the shoe boxes and put forward to the apple butter cake his mother baked each father-in-law, Saylor, told how his older them on top of the table for Santa Claus Christmas. She baked a four-layer pound cake from scratch brother, Pettit, came to the program at the to fill,” she said. “On Christmas morning them; things we didn’t and spread apple butter between the layers and on top. old Ivy Hill School dressed as Santa Claus. Photo courtesy of Museum of Frontier Culture the boxes would have oranges, nuts and That Christmas I attempted to re-create his mother’s cake. While Pettit was trying to read his part, candy in them; things we didn’t get get every day.” When I walked through the woods to Johnny’s house and Saylor moved the lamp a little closer for had a big laugh over it.” e v er y d ay.” presented it to him, he began to weep. He said it was the him to see by, as it was getting dark. For Lillie Puckett Napier’s family, In our own home, before we begin first one he’d had since his mother died. That cake was one “When I put the light up to him,” Saylor Christmas was one big get-together with opening presents, we have one of our of the best gifts I ever gave someone; a nostalgic memory said, “I accidentally caught his beard everyone visiting up and down Stoney grandchildren read the Christmas story of the past. on fire! He ran behind the sheet we had Creek. “We’d go from house to house, play- from Luke, chapter two, of the Bible. It My husband Billy said that in the holler where he lived, strung across the front of the classroom ing games, making candy, sharing a meal,” reminds us again of the greatest gift of all; the holiday stretched out several weeks. His family went and put out the fire in his beard so the she said. the gift of God’s Son. • to each of his aunts’ and uncles’ homes for a meal together little children wouldn’t see. Everyone

26 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 27 Shenandoah County Give meaning SHINE FEATURED STUDENT Leave the crowds behind and give yourself the gift of a shopping experience with fair trade Will Higgins with small, family owned businesses that can THIS HOLIDAY SEASON only offer personal attention, handcrafted Adult Completion Program quality, and small town charm. Rockbridge Regional Adult Education In Shenandoah County, you can find Program Coordinator: Lindsay Brooks Art Galleries filled with work created by local artisans, Flea Markets and Antique Will Higgins, single father of two recently shops that hold local treasures, gift shops with unique flavors of the Valley and family earned his High School Diploma through owned restaurants that serve fresh, home Rockbridge Regional Adult Education’s style meals. Adult Completion Program. Every town in Shenandoah County has a Main Street Situated like pearls on a strand What kept you from getting your high school diploma? along US Route 11, which makes it easy to In 1995 I dropped out of school during my senior year. I had to plan a day to see their unique personalities. decide between an education and a paycheck. The paycheck won. From Strasburg to New Market, each historic Best Downtown Shop town has plenty of hometown holiday cheer What led you to pursue your education after 10 years? and hospitality. For years my work kept me on the road and away from home. I Come to Shenandoah County to missed out watching my oldest child grow. I knew I needed to make rediscover your love for the Holidays and a change. I contacted Rockbridge Regional Adult Education and remember what it’s like to enjoy shopping found out I needed three credits (Government, English, and Social Advertorial and pictures provided by Jenna French, Shenandoah County Tourism. again. Studies) to earn my diploma.

What was your biggest challenge in returning to school? Country road Antiques and Gifts Delivered to your Mailbox Time. Finding time for work, family, and school work. It took me Large Selection of Outdoor Fountains and Statues Now Available! almost a year, but every Friday I met with my teacher (for 3 hours). Every Issue of When I was on the road, I did my homework every night in the hotel. 1371 Caverns Rd. • Exit 269 off I-81 Quicksburg, Va. 22847 SHENANDOAH Living 1-540-477-9522 What is your next step, now that you earned your diploma? Right next to Shenandoah Caverns and Route 11 Potato Chips ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION I have a new job close to home. After I earned my diploma, I applied Fine antiques and gifts fill our 7200 square feet mall! We offer Best at Modine Manufacturing Company. After the 3-week hiring process, furniture, toys, primitives, jewelry, dolls, paintings and gifts. Lots of FleA MArket only $ I was hired on. I enjoy my job working on pressure breaks and parts things for the men too, including old tools, knives, and much more. a year in the Valley 18 We also offer local honey, jams, jellies, syrups and pancake mixes for air and heating units. Right now I am happy I reached my goal just to name a few. The front porch is packed with primitives, and I can focus on being a dad. old and new. There is something for everyone. We are animal friendly. You are welcome to let fido out for a stretch.

Like us on • GED Preparation and Testing The Flea Market with Class Facebook: • Adult High School Degree Completion • English as a Second Language The Historic • PluggedIn Va Programs Edinburg Mill • National External Diploma Program Built in 1848 The 20,000 square foot, four story mill built along Stony • Citizenship Classes Creek by George Grandsta on the “Old Valley Pike” continues to serve the area. Listed on the National Historic Register and one Massanutten Technical Center Staunton-Augusta of only 16 mills designated as a Virginia Historic Landmark. Now serving as: • Visitor Information Center • The Mill Gift Shop (Harrisonburg/Rockingham) Adult Learning Center • Film presentation of “The Burning” based on John L. Heatwole’s 540-434-5961 540-245-5083 book telling the story of Sheridan’s Devastation of the Shenandoah Valley during the civil war. 540-746-1962 • Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum PO Box 269 Rockbridge Regional Adult Education Building Blocks Bridgewater, VA 22812 (Bath/Buena Vista/Highland/Rockbridge) (Waynesboro) 214 S. Main St. • (540) 984-8400 540-462-7536 540-946-9241 Open 7 days a week • Mon. - Sat. 10am - 5pm • Sun. Noon - 5pm Visit www.shenandoahmagazine.com www.shineadulted.org to subscribe today! 28 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 29 Feature | Music

PHOTO COURTESY KATH WISSINGER

heard the bells on Christmas day, their old familiar carols play.” These lines, of course, open that gorgeous carol from the American “The prison choir Christmas canon, and is as much a part of the season as nativity scenes and candle lighting. Like many of the world’s most beautiful traditions, had never heard Ithe song is rooted in tragedy: it was written in 1863 by celebrated poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow after his son was badly injured in Culpeper’s Battle of Mine Run. another handbell It’s both fitting and unsurprising that 150 years later, old familiar bells in the continue to comfort, inspire, and rally the hearts and spirits of Americans. And nowhere is that more true than in our own Shenandoah Valley, where church choir play before.” bell towers still faithfully chime the hour and handbell choirs of all ages and Bells backgrounds breathe fresh life into songs both old and new. Take the famous 1937 Belle Brown Northcott Memorial in Luray, for example. Locals and tourists alike can’t help but fall in love with the rich tones of the memorial’s singing bell tower, where its carillonneur—Jesse Radcliffe, only the third official player since the bells’ installation—plays songs ranging from classical overtures to toe-tapping tunes from… “My Fair Lady”??

STORY BY REBEKAH POSTUPAK ValleyPHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT SCHMACHTENBERG ABOVE: Handbell choir practice. Bell ringers wear gloves to protect the bells from the oils in their hands. 30 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 31 Bells from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Strasburg still sound the hour and ring songs at noon.

No, my ears hadn’t heard wrong. “Bells aren’t just for Christmas,” said Kath Wissinger when I asked her about it. In addition to her music teaching position at Keezletown’s Redeemer Classical Academy, Wissinger is a handbell composer and multi- choir director whose ringers play throughout the year: everywhere from Salvation Army kettles and nursing homes, to hospitals. She has even taken her adult choir, MOSAIC, into a maximum security women’s prison. Joy rang in her voice as Wissinger remembered it. “The prison choir had never heard another handbell choir play before,” she said. MOSAIC rehearsed with them and performed a joint concert, an event which clearly still moved her. Recently Wissinger was commissioned by a Virginia Tech parent to write a tribute handbell piece in memory of the victims of the 2007 shooting. The resultant work, “Through the Storm,” debuted in Colorado this past May in a performance by the Timberline choir, one of whose members is a VT tragedy survivor. Never one to set small goals for herself, Wissinger also delighted in her successful, six-year journey to The Luray Singing secure permissions for the Lord of the Rings medley Tower, constructed in she had composed. “Howard Shore edited it himself,” 1937, stands 117 feet Wissinger said. tall and is made up of 47 bells. The largest While the basement organ is not Redeemer Classical Academy isn’t the only school bell is six feet in capable of fully replicating the tones in the area to promote handbell choirs for its students. diameter and weighs of the tower's 47-bell carillon, Jesse For years, Kimly Schlabach of Thomas Harrison Middle 7,640 pounds. Radcliff, the Tower's third official School in Harrisonburg has battled budget cuts and carillonneur, uses it to practice for his competing academic priorities to lead choirs. This performances in the tower. fall, David Niño has donned the bell ringing director’s mantle at Shenandoah Valley Academy in New Market, whose famed student handbell choir is a big draw for the school. And students champion their own four- octave bell choir at Bridgewater College. Initiative in bell ringing is something Lois Holfmann of the Winchester-area traveling handbell choir, 6th Dimension, loves to see. This choir is all about initiative: 32 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 33 Visit Shop & Dine | HARRISONBURG

The bell tower at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Woodstock is one of the oldest bell towers in the Valley; the only part of the building to survive the fire of 1890.

part and interdependent on the people next to you. So we wanted to use that to connect with people, to bring the audience into the music.” Like many other facets of Shenandoah Valley culture, both handbells and carillons dance merrily between the deep past and our dynamic present. Emmanuel Church in Woodstock is where John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg served as priest in the 1770s and where, at least according to local legend, he threw off his robes and declared his intent to fight in the American Revolution. That church’s original bell tower is the only part of the church to have survived the fire of 1890, and it still stands today. Bells from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Strasburg still sound the hour and ring songs at noon. But St. Paul’s takes a more pragmatic approach to bell ringing: in 2006, overwhelmed by the rising cost of repairing their aging carillon, the church elected to go digital. “The digital carillons enable us to be more varied,” said St. Paul’s Pastor Bill Nabers, adding that the bells’ repertoire contains 500 hymns ranging from traditional to modern. But even in our digital age, this is still the Shenandoah Valley, where community and courtesy remain hallmarks of its gracious southern char- acter: at funerals, the church still manually tolls the age of the deceased. The original bell is rung on occasion as well, sometimes by children from the neighboring daycare. Be A Smart Buyer When “Bells have a place in history,” said Pastor Nabers. “They marked the It Comes To New Tires! passages of events, or called people together. They capture a certain Inform. mood for religious and non-religious alike.” Don’t Get Inspire. But what is that mood? What is it about bells, whether towering majestically above us or small ones held in neighbors’ hands in front of Stuck ! Connect. they often perform with percussion and vocals, and their signature pieces us—or even in our own hands--that reverberates so strongly? Get Big L! New Changes; Same Quality Service! Kath Wissinger has an answer for that. “There are very few instru- include the swing “Take Five” and bluesy “Classical Gas.” We offer the following services: Check out the new website: “Handbells have come a long way,” she said. “People hear music like ours and ments that total amateurs can play and sound good,” she said. And the • State Inspections • Alignments Get www.mrlib.org think, ‘Wow, that’s not church music!’” beautiful sounds ring beyond concerts into the bell community and the • Oil Changes • Exhaust Maintenance $ According to Holfmann, just about any song can be found arranged for community at large. & Installation • Suspension Work 10 BIG L Main Now Called Central Library bells these days--and if it can’t, she’ll arrange it herself. Part of 6th Dimension’s Pastor Nabers agreed. “The sound of the bells resonates deep inside • Air Conditioning • Transmission, BUCKS Power Steering, Brake & Coolant Flushes with this Ad Tutoring databases accessible from home! us,” he said. “They’re the sound of the heart, the soul.” vibrant history includes a rendition of “Soul Man” they performed in black • Mechanical Work sunglasses and fedoras for Dan Ackroyd at one of their staple annual events, Bells are organic instruments, Wissinger said. “Your arm, your heart, Seven Locations to Serve YOU! the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival’s prayer brunch. Over their 25+ year your every movement makes that bell ring.” We offer military discounts 540.434.4475 history, they have also played for the American Cancer Society, Rotary and As someone who played in a handbell choir for five years, I found that Make sure your family has Kiwanis events, and even at the Homestead Resort. a wonderfully apt summary. Our own hearts make bells ring! No wonder the best holiday gift of all... 3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU “We wanted to be more diverse, get our heads up out of the songbooks,” one of our national poets found joy and solace in their glorious sound, a FREE Massanutten 394 N Liberty St. • Harrisonburg, VA 22802 • P (540) 434-2503 Holfmann said. More than other instruments, she said, “handbells are unbeliev- like we in Shenandoah still do today. Joyful or haunting, at Christmas or 207 W Spotswood Trail • Elkton, VA 22827 • (540) 298-0154 Regional Library card! ably visual. And they are so unique: you are independently responsible for your in the heat of summer, bells’ notes echo the cry of our hearts: 4040 Early Rd. • Harrisonburg, VA 22827 • (540) 434-1792 Your Library Card… “A voice, a chime, a chant sublime / Of peace on earth, good will to men.” • www.bigltireco.com A Priceless Must Have! 34 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 35 VISIT SHOP & DINE | HARRISONBURG Only 1 Out of 4 People Perfect for Holiday Shopping! With Hearing Loss Does Something About It. Change the Odds, Experience Digital LAWN • GARDEN • FARM • HOME Hearing Bath & Body • Specialty Gifts • Soy Lotion Candles Aids Stephens City Branch Winchester Branch Mention this ad to receive your FREE gift! 5784 Valley Pike 447 Amherst Street Kroger Shopping Center, Harrisonburg Stephens City, VA 22655 Winchester, VA 22601 Mon-Sat 10:30am-5pm Leaders in 540-578-2108 | www.theisleco.com High Technology 540-869-3132 540-662-0375 Locally owned and operated Hearing Aids Serving Virginia for 33 years We Specialize in Your story of Fine Estate & Antique Jewelry Harrisonburg & Charlottesville

We Buy, Sell and Trade! Hearing Services

forever Custom Designs & Repairs Harrisonburg Hearing Services begins here Dr. Hinkle & Associates 339 Lucy Drive , Harrisonburg, VA 22801 FUEL ISLAND OPEN 24/7 Antiques • Home Decor • Gifts 540-434-3977 Part of the Harrisonburg www.harrisonburghearing.com Artisans Trail Virginia Quilt Museum Charlottesville Hearing Services PROPANE FILLING STATION Open Mon-Sat: 10-6, Sun: 12-5 Downtown Harrisonburg 301 South Main Street 1160 Pepsi Place Suite 112A, 10559 N. Valley Pike Harrisonburg, VA 22801 Charlottesville, VA 22901 CATTLE • HORSES • POULTRY • PETS • AND MORE… www.mchonejewelry.com Broadway, Va. 22815 434-973-9661 540-896-9867 Phone: 540-433-3818 www.charlottesvillehearing.com WE ARE YOUR FEED HEADQUARTERS 540.433.1833 www.shoppesatmauzy.com Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 4

Aveda Dual Exfoliation Treatment Introductory rate of $95 WE ARE HIRING! • AVEDA Skin Care • Aromatherapy Facials • Swedish & Deep Tissue MassageN ! • Spa Glows & Other Body Treatments SHENANDOAH® • Manicures & Pedicures • Facials & Body Waxing Gift Certificates 0 199 • Makeup, Tints Available shed E tabli Monday 9-2:30 Living Tuesday - Thursday 9-7 510 E. Market St. | Harrisonburg Friday 9-5 | Saturday 9-3 beautyspaonline.com A growing local Call (540) 564-1925 for an appointment magazine in the Shenandoah Valley is looking for motivated N HAIR and responsible Barber2 and Styling Salon writers and sales $8 hair cuts for executives. Men, Women and Children For more information contact Full Service Barbershop & Salon Carol J. Alexander Greg Shields 611 West Market St Editor Sales 2 years in a row Harrisonburg, VA 22801 [email protected] [email protected]

Timeless Wines on Main Street, Middletown. Downtown Lexington TOP: Shops along Main Street, Mt. Jackson BOTTOM: Planters along Main Street, Woodstock

STORY BY CAROL J. ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK SEGRETI

For some small towns, Main Street is all they have. For larger cities, Main Main Street Mattersess than 100 years ago, Quicksburg bustled at a quick pace. The than tracks, that it could have survived the demise of the railroad. Street is their calling card and a community all its own. But most folks would railroad kept this town alive, bringing supplies and taking goods For some small towns, Main Street is all they have. For larger cities, up and down the Valley. The village once included a blacksmith, Main Street is their calling card and a community all its own. But most agree, the pulse of a town’s Main Street creates the heartbeat of the town. tomato cannery, and general store. The town’s racetrack drew folks would agree, the pulse of a town’s Main Street creates the heartbeat Lvisitors from neighboring communities who probably enjoyed a few of the town. drinks in the saloon after the races were over. Now, the only thing left of Quicksburg is a post office, which the US Postal Service wants to close, THE PART OF GOVERNMENT and a Methodist church, congregation 20. Valley citizens value their Main Streets so much they have formed What happened to Quicksburg? I’m sure there are many answers to downtown enhancement groups, Main Street committees, or business that question. Location off the Valley Pike, some say. Less frequent rail alliances for the merchants in the area. travel, say others. But I cannot help think that if Quicksburg had a Main Tracy Lyons, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce for Street, a thoroughfare along which the business district stretched, other Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County said the county recently

Shop signs along Nelson Street, Lexington. Welcome to Middletown Duckpin Bowling Alley along Main Street, Mt. Jackson. November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 39 launched phase one of its 20/20 plan for More basic than events, though, a town needs revitalization. The first phase involves to create a warm and inviting environment, said reaching out to alumni from local col- Jenna French, director of tourism and market- leges and asking them to return to the ing for Shenandoah County. “From planters area and invest in the community. to lights to pocket parks,” she said, it’s all part Craig Laird, owner of Royal Oak of the plan to make visitors to downtown feel Computers and Shenandoah Confections welcomed. Rodney Shepherd, Mt. Jackson town and the president of the Front Royal Inde- council member, agrees. “You need to keep the pendent Business Alliance, said that the infrastructure and background in good shape,” he town of Front Royal just agreed to hire a said. Mt. Jackson has worked tirelessly to upgrade community development director. “This its sewer system, lay new sidewalks, install lamp position is an important piece to vitaliza- posts and more. The most talked about improve- tion of the town overall,” he said. ment has been repainting the water tower Groups such as FRIBA and Main Street along Interstate 81, to the tune of $250,000. “It’s Lexington, Chambers of Commerce, boring,” he said referring to infrastructure, “but and Rotary clubs provide networking it’s important.” opportunities for business owners and French said that some businesses in Wood- host events to draw folks to the Main stock have taken advantage of a façade grant Street area. program to fund improvements. She also said “Events are the key to get people out that it helps a town to capitalize on its historical of their cars and start walking into busi- charm. nesses and seeing what the town has to Lyons concurs. Several of the businesses in offer,” said Charles Harbaugh IV, mayor downtown Lexington have worked diligently to of Middletown. He said that Middletown restore their buildings, “recapturing what they closes down the Main Street and re- used to be in their heyday.” One such business routes traffic for special events. is the Robert E. Lee Hotel, built in 1926 and Mike Good, owner of Timeless Wines totally restored in 2014. And to call attention to in Middletown agrees. He regularly hosts the historic district of Middletown, Harbaugh wine and beer tastings at his shop to co-authored the book “Images of America: bring folks in. Middletown.” “Events are effective in bringing people together,” said Robbie Jones of Hamrick THE PART OF and Sheridan Jewelers in Lexington. He THE BUSINESS OWNER said they not only attract shoppers to the The onus is not on the town, though. When district, but provide networking opportu- asked what the key to success is for small busi- nities for the business owners. nesses the answers varied, but Chamber officials Live music, art shows, and heritage all agreed—a new business needs a viable busi- festivals are popular events hosted by ness plan. towns up and down the Valley. The most “Before opening the doors,” said Lyons, “have popular, the Shenandoah County Depart- a positive business plan that meets the needs of ment of Tourism’s Route 11 Yard Crawl the community.” Do your market research and be is held each August along more than 40 engaged with your customers to know what their miles of the Valley Pike. This event brings needs are. more folks to the Main Street sector than “A successful opening is very important,” she any other. added. “Be ready. Don’t have a soft launch. Make “Events give you the opportunity to a big deal of your opening by hosting an event. talk to people and get to know your Use the Chamber; they will help you.” customers,” said Good. TOP: Woodstock Main Street shops, Front Royal. CENTER: Tea Time on Front Royal’s Main Street BOTTOM: Pocket Park along Main Street, Mt. Jackson 40 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 41 sStaHunOtonPdo SwnTtoAwUn.oNrg TON FIRST.

Get it Downtown. Relax, We’ve Got You Covered!

Gifts for the Whole Family! Harmony Moon 13 S. New St., Staunton, VA (540) 885-1368

Warren County Courthouse, Main Street, Front Royal.

Business owners, though, look Of course everyone agrees a suc- to start a conversation and engage care of the town, if not the folks that past that initial plan with their cessful business must have an online their followers. live in it? Shopping local is, decid- advice. presence and be active on social me- edly, the best way to nurture Main “Be open,” said Good. “Have set dia. And, of course, almost everyone THE PART OF Street. hours and be consistent with them.” struggles to make it happen. THE CONSUMER Whether townsfolk develop the Karl & Mark Protil Jones agrees that you have to be “Eighty percent of Internet users Nurturing Main Streets of the habit of shopping local, organi- 4th Generation Cabinet Makers • Custom Kitchens there. “Don’t think you can just hire are on their phones,” said Janet Valley requires not just effort on the zations host regular events, or Granite Tile • Furniture • Entertainment Centers someone to man the store,” he said. Michael of Java Media in Front part of governments, organizations, shopkeepers stay active on social FREDERICK HOUSE Bookcases & Mill Work “Your business needs your personal Royal. A couple traveling through and business owners, but also the media, there is no doubt one thing 347 Cedar Green Road, Staunton VA 24401 tou ch .” the area will turn to their phone consumer. in particular keeps a Main Street and A Small Hotel Downtown Staunton French said it’s important not to to find a good place to eat. A mom “Money spent at a local business its businesses alive. 540-885-4220 Phone/Fax: 540-885-6664 [email protected] protilandsons.com operate just another store or place uses her phone to find the closest stays in the community,” said Ralph “It’s old school, I know,” said www.frederickhouse.com to eat lunch. “It takes creativity and toy store. Someone else looks up a Wakeman, owner of Shenandoah Jones, “but the key is hard work.” • ingenuity,” she said, “but you need to place of business on his phone to get Sew and Vac in Woodstock. He create a destination.” its hours. At the very least, a small encourages everyone to shop locally, Destinations are what young business needs to have a Facebook visit the shops on Main Street, and For your ad in the space adults and families are looking for. page and be active on it. “Social ask questions. Insurance Di$count$ and SpecialInsurance Options Di$count$ Available! and CONTACT Something to do on the weekend media,” she said, “is almost, if not Wakeman contends that the local Special Options Available! Home - Farmowners - Auto Home - Farmowners - Auto or the perfect place for a birthday more important, than traditional shopkeeper, with his reputation RentalRental Property - -Business Business Ellen dinner are a few things the younger advertising.” on the line, will provide superior 540-820-7546 DanielDaniel HarrisHarris generation looks for. “We need to get But many business owners don’t customer service to the big box InsuranceInsurance Agency,Agency, Inc.Inc. [email protected] them excited about coming down,” know what to say or post on their stores and online retailers. “Who are 111111 Oakwood Oakwood Drive,Drive, BridgewaterBridgewater

Call me for a quote today! said Jones, “because they are our Facebook or Twitter feeds. For that you going to complain to and who is Call me for a quote today! future.” And what better way than reason, Michael teaches social going to take care of you?” he asks, 540-828-2577 Local540-828-2577www.danharrisagency.com agent for 25 years... showing them that we speak their media management classes to small referring to his national competitors. 540-828-2577www.danharrisagency.com language by being active online. business owners. She tells them just Likewise, who is going to take www.dansharrisagency.com

42 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 43 e Best of Shenandoah Dining Healthy Food, and Great Gift Ideas for the Holidays

They called him by many different names: Sal’s is a family operated restaurant Old Blue Light, Old Hickory,even established Sept. 14, 2000. Tom Fool. Enjoy... But the name that stuck was Buon STONEWALL Appetito! Explore the life of Hot breakfast. Yummy smoothies. Thomas Jackson Made-to-order wraps in his home and garden. and sandwiches. Healthy salads. Great coffee. Experience the challanges Delicious everything. of life on the eve of Civil War. 1-81 Exit 279 Join us for the light, healthful Discover the man before 125 South Main Street fare your body will love. he became a legend. Edinburg, VA 22824 (540) 984-9300 www.salsitalianbistro.com

SAL OFFERS FAMILY PARTY TRAYS AVAILABLE FOR TAKEOUT! 7 South New St., Downtown Staunton Ask your server for menu. Call Ahead for pick-up. 885.4755 • gocranberrys.com Gift Certiﬁ cates Available! 240 N. Central Ave. BANQUET FACILITIES FOR ALL OCCASIONS... Ste. 4, Staunton, VA 8 Washington St. Lexington,VA 540-886-1534 540.464.7704 stonewalljackson.org Rent and do your own party or we will assist you Mon-Sat 7:30am - 7:00pm in our facility at no charge! Local Foods With an International Flair “One of the most important antique firearms collections in America.” Locally sourced Grocery, BRING YOUR OWN CAKE FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY... Maple Syrup, and Raw Honey on exhibit at the VMI M Lucas Roasting Company We Offer... BEER, WINE, MIXED DRINKS, Shark Mountain Coffee Company COCKTAILS, ESPRESSO & CAPPUCCINO! Teas sourced through Staunton’s White Lotus Tea Club Many Virginia’s Finest certified products We will always strive to make your visit as enjoyable as we can. www.TheStoreInStaunton.com If there is anything else we can do to improve, please let us know.

1-81 Exit 279 125 South Main Street Edinburg, VA 22824 (540) 984-9300 www.salsitalianbistro.com

T VMI M 415 Letcher Avenue Lexington VA 540. 464.7334 vmi.edu/museum November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 45 LOCAL GALLERIES

Shenandoah Living’s favorite places to buy locally made gifts for this holiday season:

Reader’s Warehouse Art Gallery 15 Campbell Street, Luray 540-843-0200 Mon-Fri, 12-5 pm; Sat-Sun 11 am--5 pm

Choice LTD7.2 Studio 54 Rowe Road, Staunton 540-292-4650 Sun-Wed 10-6; Thurs-Sat 10-7

Virginia Made Shop 54 Rowe Road, Staunton Eugene B. Smith, 800-544-6118 watercolor artist. Sun-Wed 9-6; Thurs-Sat 9-8

Brooklyn’s Market Collective 139 Virginia Avenue, Luray 571-353-4384 Wed–Fri 12–6; Sat 10–6; Sun 11–6

Eugene B. Smith Gallery and Custom Framing Studio Top 25 N. Loudoun Street, Winchester 540-667-6190 Mon-Sat 10-7; Sun 12-5

Zac Nafziger, Shenandoah Valley Art Center Valley Stained glass artist. 126 S. Wayne Avenue, Waynesboro 540-949-7662 Tues–Sat 10–4; Sun 2–4

Handworks Gallery 150 N Loudoun Street, Winchester Artists 540-662-3927 STORY BY CAROL J. ALEXANDER Mon-Thurs 10-5; Fri-Sat 10-7; Sun 12-5 PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARTISTS Larkin Arts 61 Court Square, Harrisonburg 540-236-4223 Larry Mayer, Mon-Fri 11-7; Sat 10-5 TOP: River Light by Eugene B. Smith. Woodturner. CENTER: Stained glass art by Zac Nafziger. The Little Shop he Artisan’s Center of Virginia has 13 designated artisan trails in was wonderful, I wanted to include every single artist in this issue; I was so BOTTOM: Bowls by Larry Mayer. 6024 Main Street, Mt. Jackson 540-742-7251 the state. Five of them include regions of the Shenandoah Valley moved by what I was seeing. Mon-Closed; Tue-Thur 10-5; Fri 10-6; and Shenandoah Living readers. This10 beautiful region we call I’ve never had so much fun as I did the day I called the top ten artists to Sat 10-7; Sun 12:30-5:30 home is saturated with art. tell them they were nominated. It was like Christmas and I was Santa Claus. attack and quadruple bypass,” he said, “this is giving ing a technique with torn paper. First, she sketches her Artists in Cahoots This summer we asked you, our readers, to nominate your favorite Valley Their reactions were priceless. me just the boost I need as I sit down to paint for the subject and applies a simple acrylic under-painting to T 21 West Washington Street, Lexington first time in a while. I am very honored by this nomina- establish value. Then she applies torn pieces of paper artist for a “Top 10 Artisans in the Valley” recognition. Those eligible were to If you need a unique gift for that special someone this holiday season, 540-464-1147 live in the Valley and sell their work in a brick and mortar location. please visit the shops listed and check out the work of these great people. tion. Thanks to you and your wonderful magazine for that she first painted. She applies a UVB protectant Mon-Sat 10:30-6; Sun 10:30-3:30; While visiting a gallery to check out some of the artists nominated for They are, after all, your favorites. supporting the artists in our beautiful valley.” Gary’s varnish to finish. Demetra also creates jewelry with pa- April—December work can be purchased at the Warehouse Art Gallery per beads that she rolls by hand and glazes. Demetra’s the Readers’ Choice distinction, I turned a corner of the room and a paint- Gary Saylor, from Luray, has been drawing ever since he can remember. The Michael B. Tusing Gallery ing caught my breath and brought tears to my eyes. In 1986 he took a watercolor class that brought him where he is today. Born in Luray. artwork can be found at LTD 7.2 Studio in Staunton. 21 N Market Street, Staunton “Why wasn’t this artist nominated?” I asked myself. Then, “Why weren’t and raised in Page County, Gary is best known for his landscape scenes and Demetra Turner from Waynesboro is a painter LTD 7 was voted Virginia Living Magazine’s Best Gift 540-885-2697 Wed-Fri 10-5; Sat 10-2 all these artists nominated?” While your response to this Readers’ Choice paintings of historical buildings. “In a year that has seen me survive a heart and jewelry artist. Demetra’s paintings are created us- Shop in 2015.

46 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 47 Demetra Turner, artist. Fred Emmons, Gary Saylor, watercolor artist. watercolor artist.

I’ve never had so much fun CENTER TOP: Marsha Heatwole, acrylic and mixed media artist. as I did the day I called the TOP: Winter on the Greenway. Watercolor painting top ten artists to tell them by Fred Emmons. CENTER: Bunker Hill Mill, watercolor by Gary Saylor. they were nominated. It was BOTTOM: Painting by Barbara Mason. like Christmas and I was

Santa Claus. Their reactions Barbara Mason is a watercolor artist that considers were priceless. her art therapy. “My paintings are what comes from in- An embellished monotype by Marsha Heatwole. side,” she said of her work in abstracts. Barbara, 70 years old, has been painting since high school. Her work can be purchased at the Warehouse Art Gallery in Luray. A largely self-taught artist, Eugene B. Smith’s Mt. Crawford resident Terry Ritchie began turning watercolor paintings include wet-on-wet and dry-brush pens a little over two years ago, after a successful battle techniques. He uses a subtle palette, preferring to let with cancer. He turns the body from wood or acrylic on the water coexist with the pigment in each composi- a lathe. The pen components are made from precious tion. Eugene also works in printmaking and Chinese metals like gold, platinum, or titanium. He enjoys the brushwork. His subjects range from the nearby moun- journey of creating a pen. “Starting with the conversa- tains and historic villages to the dunes and seascapes tion with a client,” he said, “obtaining materials, turning of coastal Carolina and Florida. His work can be and finishing to the presentation, the journey is unique purchased at the Eugene B. Smith Gallery in Old Town and different for each pen.” You can purchase a Terry Winchester. Ritchie pen at The Little Shop in Mt. Jackson. Larry Mayer, wood turner, creates beautiful vessels Fred Emmons is a watercolor artist from Stan- in his shop outside of Staunton. He especially enjoys ley. For 41 years, he taught Spanish in both public turning custom pieces from wood taken from a client’s and private schools. In 2006, he underwent a double property. “Several of my family members have bowls by-pass surgery. Diving into his painting hobby was made from wood taken from my grandfather’s farm,” part of his recuperation. Fred’s paintings are primarily said Tracy Mayer, Larry’s daughter. “The property is no landscapes. “Most of my art is inspired by the beauty of longer in our family but we all have such great memo- the Shenandoah Valley,” he said. “One of the things that ries of spending time there.” Larry began turning bowls I really enjoy about my art is searching out new places in 2002 after retiring. His work can be purchased at the to focus my work on.” You can purchase his paintings at Virginia Made Shop in Staunton. Brooklyn’s Market Collective in Luray. Torn paper and acrylic painting by Demetra Turner.

48 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 49 Shenandoah Style & Home Dogwood Mountain Log Homes Independent Representative for

GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS SINCE 1945 16 East Main Street Luray, Virginia 22835 540-743-4022 4563 South Valley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 • 540-433-1873 www.virginiagiftshop.net Located accross from the Rockingham Co. Fairgrounds Email: [email protected] Open Tuesday – Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 10 to 4 Ceramic artist Kary Haun. J & B Country Store LONE PINE Rebecca’s Well Ben Franklin & Established in 1995 LIGHTING Antique Mall & Treasures Vinyl & Aluminum • Fences Aladdin Lamps & Accessories Gift Shoppe Decks • Railings • Arbors & Pergolas Flags, Custom Framing, Live Fish, Gifts, Porches • Handicap Ramps Large Selection of Fabric, Yarn, Antiques, Furniture, Glass & Fabric Lamp Shades Baked Goods & Much More! Free Ultra-Pure Lamp Oil We have plenty of gi idea’s. Mon - Fri 9 AM - 6 PM estimates Antique Oil Lamps Come shop on Main Street. Sat 9 AM - 5PM Bring your lamp for a Enjoy your Holiday The Country Cafe Personalized Fitting shopping here in Tues - Sat Located in the 163 Main St. Dayton Farmer’s Market our cozy unique shop. Broadway, VA 3105 John Wayland Hwy. 27 White Picket Trail, Mt. Crawford VA. 405 N. Main St., Bridgewater 540-896-2880 Thurs-Sat 9-6 12 Miles North of Harrisonburg 540-564-1322 540.879.9899 540-828-4949 www.dutchway.com Most shades made in USA Turner of pens, Terry Ritchie. Open Mon-Sat 10-5 “Biggest Little Store in the Valley”

Take the road less traveled ® Experience Fine Furniture & Mattresses Geranium

platter. Photo GREETINGS FROM Courtesy Kary Virginia Artisans Fine Handcrafts Haun. Unique Gifts

Minutes from: Kary Haun lives and works in downtown Wood- she said. Marsha does three different types of work: Skyline Drive FREEE LAYAWAY • FREE GIFT WRAPPING • FREE PARKING Shenandoah stock. Her love for ceramics came while taking a class acrylic paintings, etchings, and a mixed-media pro- M-F 10am–6pm • Sa 10am–5pm • Su 12pm–5pm National Park 193 W. Spotswood Ave., Elkton, VA 22827 in college in 1992. The relationship that a person cess. Her work is available for purchase at Artists in 540.298.5222 • www.solaceinc.com Massanutten Resort has with her work is what initially drew her to this Cahoots in Lexington and the Michael Tusing Gallery art form. “I love a fantastic painting on the wall that and Mrs. Rowe’s Restaurant in Staunton moves me every time I pass by and look at it,” she said, Zac Nafziger has been creating gorgeous windows “but having, for example, a beautiful cup that feels with stained glass since he was 16 years old. It has Total Satisfaction Guarantee Within 30 days if you are not completely satisfied we’ll good in your hands, it warms you, it touches your lips, been his full-time occupation for the last three years. exchange your purchase or refund your money. Mattresses, special orders, adjustable bases and that’s a relationship that is real and personal.” You can In Harrisonburg, you can see his work at Community clearance items not included. See store for delivery areas and times. purchase Kary’s ceramics at the Handworks Gallery in Mennonite Church, the pharmacy at Rockingham Next Day Delivery Lowest Price Guarantee Within 30 days if you find the same item elsewhere for less we’ll Winchester and the Shenandoah Valley Art Center in Memorial Hospital, and the Breathe Pilates Studio. “I refund 110% of the difference, 125% on mattresses. We guarantee our own prices too! Waynesboro. think the process of creating art is what I enjoy most,” Affordable Monthly Payments Marsha Heatwole is a native to the Shenandoah said Zac. “There’re a lot of steps that go into creating CHARLOTTESVILLE Valley and lives in Lexington. “I have been painting my something out of nothing.” Zac lives with his wife 1801 Seminole Trail (Rt 29) | 434.974.6480 LEXINGTON whole life,” she said, “and it has been my sole profes- Stephanie and daughter Madelyn in Weyers Cave. He 1 South Main St. | 540.463.3121 WAYNESBORO Pen turned from wood by sion since 1983.” She paints animals almost exclusively. sells his creations in his studio and at Larkin Arts in 436 Tiffany Dr. Behind Walmart | 540.942.4119 Terry Ritchie. “Nature is my most profound teacher and inspiration,” WINCHESTER Harrisonburg. • www.grandhomefurnishings.com 1829 S. Loudoun St. | 540.662.0912 HARRISONBURG 2080 Evelyn Byrd Ave. | 540.434.7619

50 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 51 Christmas in the Country “That Historic Brownsburg Tour of Homes Saturday, December 12, 10AM-4PM Shenandoah Feeling” Story by Emily C. Alexander Sunday, December 13, 1PM-4PM “Ya’ll going to the game?” An obvious question, ticket 540-348-5888 considering the Chick-Fil-A guests were decked out in purple and gold to show enthusiasm for JMU’s

Bring your family treasures and You are invited to high tea by Homecoming festivities. Augusta County heirlooms where a panel of ex- the Belle Grove Christmas Tree! Kerr log cabin and smithy. “Of course!” perts will offer appraisals and After lingering over tea and de- “Have fun! Enjoy the weekend,” I quipped. Nov. 7 explanations of each article. lectable treats, tour the manor Augusta Expoland Indoor Mar- CONTACT: Belle Grove Planta- house decorated to the theme Circa 1794 “Go Dukes!” they cheered, heading out the door. ket and Yard Sale. Augusta tion (540) 869-2028 email: info@ of “Holdays around the World”. “Go Dukes,” I whispered, continuing to wipe tables County Fairground, Fishersville. bellegrove.org web: www.bel- CONTACT: Belle Grove Planta- Indoor show with a variety of legrove.org tion (540) 869-2028 email: info@ and revel in community, my community. Looking over our goods for purchase. CONTACT: bellegrove.org web: www.bel- mountains, standing nobly against the clouds and sunshine (540) 943-3976 email: info@ Nov. 5 legrove.org augustaexpo.com web: www. Holiday Calligraphy Adult Work- of autumn, dressed in glorious reds, oranges and yellows, I am reminded of the many reasons augustaexpo.com shop, Museum of Shenandoah Dec. 12 I treasure living right here. I wasn’t born in the Valley but having moved here when I was six I Valley, Winchester. Thurs: 6:00- Holiday Concert: Yesterday lay full claim to being a Virginian. Growing up in Shenandoah County, I relished the days my Nov. 14 8:00 pm. Enjoy learning about Swing Orchestra, Museum of Run Fur Fun 5K. Waynesboro. calligraphy in this workshop. the Shenandoah Valley, Win- mom let me run into the store, all by myself, to get a gallon of milk. I knew each of the cashiers CONTACT: MSV (888) 556-5799 chester. 1:00-2:00 pm and 2:30- Come out and enjoy this 5K and stockers by name, and could navigate the aisles of our small-town grocery like my own back run. Benefits Augusta Dog web: www.themsv.org 3:30 pm. Enjoy this holiday Adoption. Dogs are welcome! concert. CONTACT: Museum yard. Going to town was comfortable and safe. I was known; I belonged. of the Shenandoah Valley (888) CONTACT: Marty Roddy @ Nov. 19 It was my community. [email protected] (434) Holiday Wreath Workshop, Mu- 556-5799 web: www.themsv.org 218-0402 seum of the Shenandoah Valley, Excitement pervaded the day I got my learner’s permit. I could drive! Not only that, I could Winchester. Wed: 1-3 or 6-8 put into practice my favorite Valley ritual--the wave. Passing another car while driving demanded pm. Explore wreath making and Nov. 14-Dec 31 Rockbridge a form of greeting. Neighbors are neighbors, whether next door or three roads away. Unfortunate- Art for Gifts. R.R. Smith Center learn about the history of holi- for History and Art, Staunton. day greens using fresh greenery. County ly the rise of cell phones has led many distracted and self-centered drivers to forget this Valley CONTACT: Museum of the Great ideas if you are seeking ritual. But on my back roads, the tradition still lives and I wave to my neighbors with just as much a unique holiday gift. Hand- Shenandoah Valley (MSV) (888) crafted gifts include jewelry, 556-5799 web: www.themsv.org Nov. 1-21 enthusiasm. They are my neighbors, they are my community.

home décor, glass sculpture, Virginia Horse Center Events. Growing up I attended the small-town festivals of Shenandoah and Rockingham counties with paintings, clothing and more. Nov. 20-21 Lexington Horse Center, Lex- CONTACT: (540) 885-2028 Deck the Halls, 400 Block of ington, VA. Virginia Horse Trials my Nana, helping with her arts and crafts table. The same vendors frequented the festivals every East Main Street, Front Royal. on the 1st; Southwest Virginia spring and fall. I loved walking from booth to booth, saying hello, looking over the new wares Horse Hunter Jumper Finals The Blue Ridge Arts Festival Shortly after 1793 when the Village of Brownsburg was hosts this wonderful event and on the 6th-8th; Old Time Music tradition with mountain mu- fund. CONTACT: (540) 432-4225 each artisan had crafted, and hearing the call of “kettle corn” with the sound of a bell. The same 35th Annual Fall and Christmas sic, blue grass, and dancing at email: [email protected] incorporated, Andrew Kerr purchased a half acre lot along Arts and Crafts Show. Augusta proceeds will support the arts Jam on the 10th: Virginia Horse people attended the festivals, bought the same apple butter every year, and looked at the same council and outreach programs. Shows Association Champion- Clark’s Ole Time Music Center. the eastern line of the Brownsburg Turnpike. A modest County Fairground, Fishersville. CONTACT: (540) 377-2490 SAT 9-5, Sun 10-4. 100 + exhibi- CONTACT: (540) 635-9909 web: ships on the 12th-15th; and two story log cabin was built that servred ast a simple antique cars in the car show. But somehow, it wasn’t the same faces, the same apple butter, and Winter Tournament on the 21st. tors. Indoor juried show with www.blueridgearts.org Nov. 22 home. In 1820, a brick blacksmith house was added. looking at the cars never got old. These towns were mine—kids that played baseball with my handmade crafts and artwork. CONTACT: Virginia Horse Cen- Dec. 12-13 SVTC Turkey Run 5K, Bridge- CONTACT: (540) 943-3976 Blue Ridge Dog Agility, located ter (540) 464-2950 web: www. Brownsburg Christmas Tour of water Town Hall, Bridgewater. brothers, women that volunteered at the libraries, men my dad stopped to talk with at yard sales. email: [email protected] at Body Renew Fitness Center, horsecenter.org Homes, Brownsburg. Sat: 10- Come enjoy this event. First This was the Valley crowd, my community. web: www.augustaexpo.com Winchester. Come see dogs of 4, Sun: 1:4. Enjoy a Christmas time held in Bridgewater. Entry Nov. 28 Virginia wine, food and crafts at all sizes and breeds compete Nov. 14 Home Tour in beautiful Browns- fee: $20. $15 for SVTC member. Christmas Extravaganza, Back the sixth annual festival. With Once I began working jobs in the City of Harrisonburg, my community expanded. First I burg, VA. Four homes will be Home on the Farm, 2915 Willow over 10 wineries, great food, Nov. 20-21 in this AKC Agility dog tryouts. 2nd Annual Race to the Rock- CONTACT: Rich Ruozzi (540) worked at A Bowl of Good, a great little cafe just off Mt. Clinton Pike. I learned the ebb and Watch dogs compete on vari- presented to include 3 log 833-6302 email: valleysting@aol. Run Road, Harrisonburg. Enjoy unique crafts and more! Also a Ole Time Christmas Antique bridge and a Run in Remem- ous courses including jumps, structures and two of 18th cen- com the opening of Holiday Sea- variety of kid’s activities. Admis- flow of Eastern Mennonite University’s diverse student body and faculty; I came to love the Show, Augusta County Fair- brance 10K. Natural Bridge, A-frame, teeter, tunnels and tury construction. Lunch will son with trees, Santa workshop, sion is free. Wine tasting is $15 ground, Fishersville. CONTACT: VA. Join in this combined trail families and faces of Eastern Mennonite School and High School and I gained insight into the dog walks. CONTACT: (540) be served at Old Providence wreaths, fresh greenery and more! and includes a souvenir glass. (540) 943-3976 email:info@ and road race ending under 869-0100 Web: www.blueridge- Church on Saturday. Local CONTACT: 540-442-6493 CONTACT: (540) 477-2432 web: daily grind of our local small businesses, farmers, and dairymen. Today, I work on the “other” augustaexpo.com web: www. the Natural Bridge. CONTACT: Nov. 26 dogtrainingclub.com (540) 291-2121 musicians will perform and mu- www.shenandoahcaverns.com. augustaexpo.com Rocktown Turkey Trot 4 Miler side of town, in the thick of James Madison University and the ebb and flow of its student life. seum will be open. CONTACT: Dec. 5-6 Paul Hahn, Brownsburg Com- and Gobble Gobble Kids Dash, Having never had a personal connection to JMU, I am now caught up in the thrill of game days Dec. 4-30 Nov. 26 Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Nov. 22 Dec. 26 munity Association (540) 348- Harrisonburg. Come enjoy this Christmas Around the World Show and Sale, Rockingham 5th AnnualTurkey Trot 5K/10K and other stirring events. Yes, Go Dukes—my neighbors, my friends, my community. Polar Express 5K Run. Waynes- Lexington Gobble Wobble 5K. 1600 web: www.brownsburgva. turkey run in Harrisonburg with Holiday Tours. Belle Grove County Fairgrounds, Harrison- Race. Massanutten Military Track, boro High School. Enjoy a brisk Maury River Middle School, wordpress.com a special Kids Dash Event. En- Next year may find me living in a great mid-western city, far from my grandly dressed Plantation, Middletown. Cel- burg. SAT: 9-4 and SUN 10-4. In- Woodstock. The proceeds of this run in December. Proceeds Lexington. Thurs: 9 am. Come try fee: $25. $10for Kid’s Dash. ebrate “Christmas Around the doors, with 135 exhibitors, (heat- event benefit Shenandoah Valley mountains and small-town vibes. While I’m sure I will find new friends and neighbors, a good benefit the WHS Swim Team . out with the entire family and CONTACT: Kevin Gibson (434) World” at Belle Grove! The ed space). CONTACT: Christmas Alliance for Shelter. CONTACT: CONTACT: Coach Karen Miller walk/run this beautiful 3.1 mile Rockingham 970-3877 email: Kevin Gibson grocery store, and someone who can make a bagel almost as good as Mr. J’s, I’m afraid my manor house will be beautifully Arts & Crafts Show, Leann Cloud, (540) 459-2142. (540) 836-9311-3976 email: loop through downtown Lex- [email protected] decorated by area garden clubs. PO Box 65, Dayton, VA, 22821. standard for community may be hard for any other place in this world to meet. The Shenandoah [email protected] web: ington and finish at Brewbaker County Enjoy spiced tea and cookies by (540)879-9417 Nov. 28 www.valleytrack.org Field. There is also a one mile Valley is a beautiful land of agriculture, outdoor adventures, entrepreneurial efforts, and many the Winter Kitchen hearth and Kids Fun Run. Race fee: $30 Nov. 14 Nov. 27-Dec 16 Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts find the perfect gift in the muse- and T-shirt included. CON- Show. Bryce Resort, Basye. Sat: incredible academic institutions. The Valley is full of sweet, resilient, gracious and hardworking Annual Gala Concert, EMU, Green Valley Book Fair, 2192 um shop. Check out website for TACT: (540) 463-5375 web: 10-3. Come support this arts and Lehman Auditorium, Harrison- Green Valley Lane, Mt. Craw- Shenandoah people. But more than that, the Shenandoah Valley is my home, my community, where I belong. Frederic County details. CONTACT: Belle Grove www.LexingtonGobbleWobble. crafts show and get some holiday burg. Enjoy this beautiful fund- ford. Mon-Thurs: 10-5, Fri-Sat: Plantation (540) 869-2028 email: com County shopping done. Free Admission. No matter where life’s journey takes me, my soul will always be nestled here, right between raising concert that showcases 10-6, Sun: 12-5. Come to the [email protected] web: www. CONTACT: (540) 856-2121 (ext. Nov. 7-8 the musical talent of EMU’s Mu book fair and save up to 90% off these mountains. bellegrove.org 220) Email:memberservices@bry- Belle Groves Annual Antiques Nov. 27 sic Department. Suggested do- retail on over 30,000 different Nov. 14 ceresort.com Appraisal and Traditional Crafts Clark’s Ole Time Mountain Mu- nation is $10 and the proceeds titles. CONTACT: 800-385-0099 Shenandoah Uncorked Festival. Whether studying, working, or volunteering, Emily enjoys every moment of her life in the Valley, Belle Grove Holiday Tea. Belle Show. Belle Grove Plantation, sic, Raphine. Enjoy this music support the music scholarship web: www.gvbookfair.com The Yellow Barn at Shenandoah especially meeting new people, spending time with family and friends, and writing about things Middletown. Sat and Sun 10-4. Grove Plantation, Middletown. Caverns, Quicksburg. Explore that impact her soul.

52 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 November/December 2015 | shenandoahmagazine.com | 53

White Birch Communities Corporate ID Manual

& &" !# We invite you to come and take a tour!

Enjoy your retirement in a beautiful peaceful area. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Our caring and supportive environment will help you stay active and independent! - Independent Living - Oakwood Village

• 1200 sq. ft. condos located adjacent to the main facility. • It’s a friendly neighborhood environment. • Fully equipped homes with maintenance. • Access to all dining and community amenities, includes fitness center, library, beauty salon. • Dine in the beautiful dining room or have your meals delivered to your room. #' Assisted Living - White Birch Center • 52 spacious rooms with baths. Residents are encouraged to decorate and furnish their own rooms. We accommodate couples that live together. • 24 hour staffing: Dieticians, Housekeeping, Transportation, Housekeeping, Special Care Assistance as needed. • Additional community amenities: Chapel, Family Room, Kitchen, Piano. • Full activities calendar: Classes, Outings, Crafts, Gardening, Movies, Parties and Church.

MEMORY CARE ADDITION $ '" "+Ft#"#+ )) ( COMING SOON! -(()--- ' *'PO t ,# " 847 Oakwood Drive -(()($ :5%% t % Harrisonburg VA 22801 540-879-9699 [email protected] www.whitebirchcommunities.com **#' '

54 | shenandoahmagazine.com | November/December 2015 Why is Harrisonburg the second fastest growing HBG2metropolitan area in Virginia?

JMU “One of the Best According to the Weldon Cooper Center, Harrisonburg is second only Small Places for Business and to Northern Virginia in population growth. And Chmura Economics ranks Careers” Harrisonburg first for employment growth among all Virginia metropolitan areas. – FORBES While lots of factors contribute to such success, the partnership between the “One of the community and James Madison University helps lead the way. Smartest Cities in America” – LUMINOSITY

“5th Best College Town in America” – TRAVEL + LEISURE

Visit www.jmu.edu/economicimpact to learn more. PHOTOGRAPHS BY MIKE MIRIELLO (’09M)