Recreation News, July 2014

Recreation THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF RECGOV.ORG & GOVEmPLOyEE.COm July 2014

Volume 32/Number 7

www.recreationnews.com

Surf, sand, and sparkling new things to do in Ocean City, Maryland

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A 2-Night Getaway to Ocean City’s Oceanfront Dunes Manor Hotel!

Maryland mountain memories • Treetop adventures on the gorge • Outdoors in Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains • Agritourism roundup • Virginia’s Big Lake Country • Mid-Atlantic caverns • Prince George’s marks the War of 1812

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pennsylvania I bud cole

Make a play date in the Endless Mountain Region Explore the river, hiking trails, and the quaint village of Eagles Mere If you are looking for an endless list of adventures this summer, the Endless Mountains Region of north-

eastern Pennsylvania, covering the counties of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming, as well

Bud Cole

Kayakers explore the Susquehanna River near Tunkhannock, Pa.

as the northern section of Wayne County, are exactly where you want to go. Part of the Appalachian Mountain chain, the area’s once-prosperous mining and lumbering economy has changed to focus on tourism, agriculture, and forestry products.

The area is about 3-1/2 hours northwest of Baltimore, Md., and is easily accessible by taking I-83 to I-81.

Eagles Mere, a quaint village in Sullivan County with a population of 120 people, is often called “the town that time forgot,” thanks to its easygoing, unhurried pace.

The area was developed in the 1800s as a destination resort for affluent Philadelphians.

Nineteenth-century visitors came from the city to experience the refreshingly cool air and the clear mile-long lake, and 21st-century visitors still travel to Eagles Mere for the same reasons.

The village and surrounding area

include antique shops, art galleries, fine dining, four wineries, boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and biking trails, golfing, and other outdoor activities.

Insider tip: The Eagles Mere Lake has a beautiful public hiking trail that follows the shoreline around the lake through mountain laurels and rhododendron.

The Eagles Mere Inn and the Crestmont Inn offer romantic vacation packages and standard Pennsylvania resort services and amenities.

Both are located close to the pristine lake, surrounded by hundreds of acres of forest and breathtaking waterfalls, and offer beautiful sunset views.

The Eagles Mere Inn prides itself on using local farm products and fresh ingredients, and it provides free bicycles, kayaks, and tennis equipment to its guests. continued on page 6

2014 Guid

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Call 1-800-769-8999 for a FREE Endless Mountains Guide with information on where to stay and play.

Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The natural beauty of the area, along with abundant outdoor adventures, rich history, and a variety of events held throughout the year, makes this region one of Pennsylvania’s most treasured getaway locations.

Visit the Endless Mountains... Make Endless Memories.

4 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

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publisher’s note I karl teel

Sometimes it’s mostly about the journey an itch, the more you scratch, the more it itches.

We warned them that this sort of travel could be contagious.

For me, it was great to spend time with one of my oldest friends and also create a new friend. My wife and I were delighted to show them the ropes as veteran travelers and also learn together with them about some new sites and techniques, in this case travel via canal boat.

The bonds created were incredible. When you learn things together, thinking you are the teacher, you sometimes find out you are the student. Other times you’re happy to feel it’s better to give than to receive.

We got our dose of sights, challenges, and stimulation on the trip.

Predictably, we also got a satisfying dose of European vacation and relaxation. As always, each adventure came with a surprise lesson that touched home and enhanced our lives.

Why do we vacation? Relaxation, break from the routine, stimulation. There are a ton of reasons.

As empty nesters, we are at a stage in life where travel is more accessible and we take advantage of every opportunity we can. We’ve earned this stage in life. Isn’t this what we worked so hard to achieve?

Traveling with my wife and best friend, a new friend, and one of my oldest friends, we reflected on how great it is to be here, not just alive, but living and reflecting on nearly a half-century of friendship. Is this the meaning of life? Part of it? I don’t know.

But I do know it’s not about the destination, it’s the journey along the way.

Since the dawn of time, as long as man could think, we’ve pondered the purpose of life. Some wrestle with the question throughout life, some as they near the end, and others while facing a particular life challenge. Philosophers, religious thinkers, and engineers have explored this from many angles with many outcomes.

While the answer remains elusive, the value of its pursuit is not. It’s somewhat like the saying about travel — it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey along the way.

While no doubt, destinations provide huge benefits to a vacation — consider the joy of seeing the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Canyon, the pyramids, or any unfamiliar-yet-fascinating sights. But, experiencing other cultures is also a major part of the equation.

Interacting with other cultures may frustrate some and yet captivate others. Meals are a prime example. Different people view this in diverse ways as well. Some prefer familiar tastes and routines and become troubled by an unfamiliar menu, while others relish the opportunity to taste something new. Likewise, language barriers may frustrate some and be a fun game for others.

No matter what our differences may be, no matter where we are in our journey through life, and America’s #2 Resort for Families no matter how we view TripAdvisor.com 2014 travel, one thing is inescapable. Our learning and understanding of life becomes enhanced through travel.

Recently, my wife and I had an opportunity to travel to Europe, a favorite destination of ours, with another couple. It was their first time in Europe and the trip was to satisfy an itch of a lifelong dream. Like many

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 ~ Play in the Endless Mountains 5 ~ Publisher’s note 6 ~ Editor’s note 7 ~ Marking the War of 1812 8 ~ Travel line 10 ~ Agritourism attractions 12 ~ Mid-Atlantic caverns 14 ~ New in Ocean City 17 ~ Authentic Allegany County 19 ~ Cruise corner 22 ~ Morgantown adventure packages 24 ~ Adventures on the Gorge 29 ~ Steam and art in Talbot County 29 ~ Antietam wine tour 30 ~ Calendar of events 34 ~ Virginia’s Big Lake Country 36 ~ Rest your head in Bath County 38 ~ Finding fun in Harrisburg 39 ~ Outdoors in Allegheny National Forest 40 ~ Dinghy Poker Run 41 ~ Family fun at the Baysox 42 ~ Music festivals 43 ~ Culture 44 ~ Adventures in taste 45 ~ Burning Chambersburg 45 ~ Wine doctor 47 ~ Classified

On our cover A visit to Ocean City, Md., is a vacation tradition for many in the Baltimore-Washington area./Ocean City Tourism

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editor’s note I marvin bond

And the winner is ...

Congratulations to these and any other winners we may have missed.

Communities across America and the Mid-Atlantic now compete for a plethora of designations and reader favorite recognition. Mostly, it makes for good press release material, but some of our own towns and attractions have gained notable recognition recently.

Berlin, Md., just west of Ocean City, won the “Coolest Small Town” designation for 2014, recognition also won in recent years by Lewisburg, W. Va. You can read more about Berlin in our “What’s New in Ocean City” feature this month.

Chincoteague, Va., is on a roll, having been named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” and “#2 American Island for 2014.”

Smithfield, Va., is also on a roll this year. It was named among “America’s Prettiest Painted Places” in the small town in the southeast category and won three “America in Bloom” awards recognizing beautification with flowers, plants, and trees.

Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington, Del., became Delaware’s first Smithsonian Affiliate last month, a designation which provides extensive opportunities and resources for the museum.

The Maryland National Park and Planning Commission is a finalist for the 2014 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, an honor it has won five times before. The commission administers 52,000 acres of parks in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

Travelers’ toolbox u Where reserved seats are available on a flight, ExpertFlyer may be able to help. A free mobile app called SeatAlert lets you input your flight information and select the seats you want. It will alert you when the selection (even “two seats together”) becomes available. (expertflyer.com) u If there’s an angler in the family you can provide a monthly surprise with Tackle Grab, sort of a “fruit-of-the-month club” that sends new tackle each month that relates to the recipient’s location and type of fishing. (tacklegrab.com) u Know before you go is the advice often issued by the U.S. Forest Service; valuable in these days of wildfires, mudslides, and avalanches. Avenza’s PDF Maps App puts the latest Forest Service maps on your mobile device, including areas restricted by conditions or for certain types of activities. (avenza.com/pdf-maps)

Blue Star Museums There’s still time for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel and their families to take advantage of the Blue Star Museum program that provides free admission for them from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are more than 270 participating museums in the Mid-Atlantic region covering all types of in-

Calvert County Nature Parks Explore the Wonders of the Natural World www.calvertparks.org

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6 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

terests. (bluestarfam.org) Correction: In the June story about the Columbia-Montour region of Pennsylvania, Susquehanna Outdoor Adventures was incorrectly identified.

Recreation News regrets the error.

Coming next month War of 1812 Lancaster Shenandoah Valley antiquing North Carolina

Endless Mountains The inn offers special getaway and seasonal packages.

The Crestmont Inn blends romance with beautiful surroundings and first-class amenities. The bedand-breakfast is widely respected for its hospitality and offers beautiful rooms and suites. The restaurant has casual and fine dining available.

Two state parks — Ricketts Glen and Worlds End — are a short drive from the inns.

July entertainment in Eagles Mere ranges from an old-fashioned July 4th concert on the Village Green to the Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts 40th Celebration on July 19. Country music fans will enjoy the Johnny Cash Experience on July 26 at the DeWire Center.

The Stone Bridge Inn and Restaurant is another great place to stay.

The inn is located near Elk Mountain, with nearby rail trails and hiking trails. Enjoy the 200 acres of rolling pastures and woodlands. The inn’s 13 rooms have private baths and great views of the mountain region.

hanna River. Pennsylvania’s longest river is ideal for water sports such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

River Day in Tunkhannock includes a “Celebrate Our River Day” guided paddle tour on July 19. You can also enjoy live music, environmental activities, and nature walks, as well as the Ross Park ZooMobile visiting from Binghamton, N.Y. The guided Laceyville Community Day River Paddle is an 8-mile paddle on the Susquehanna River passing through wilderness areas where you can view wildlife and birds. The North Branch Land Trust has its River Paddle Trip on July 26, with river history and environmental highlights.

The Whipple Performing Arts Studio in Tunkhannock is hosting the Starlite Wine Faire on July 19. The event features northeast Pennsylvania wines and the cavorting of King Henry VIII’s court.

The Troy Fair in Bradford County runs July 21-26 in Alparon Park. The Taste Full Event on July 26 at the Sullivan County Fairgrounds features wine, beer, food, live music, horse drawn carriage rides, and craft sales.

An unhurried pace, river adventures, and a slice of Americana are waiting in the Endless Mountains.

Get on the river

For more information

Tunkhannock Borough, in Wyoming County, is located along the Susque-

Endless Mountains Tourism: endlessmountains.org

continued from page 4

maryland I reed hellman

Prince George’s County celebrates the War of 1812 It was the only time this nation was ever successfully invaded. In the summer of 1814, before the starspangled glory of Fort McHenry and the American victory at North Point, our nation watched its capital burn.

Across the Maryland line in Prince George’s County, overmatched American troops faced seasoned British regulars in an unsuccessful attempt to save Washington. Two hundred years later, the area is retelling the story of the British march, the Battle of Bladensburg on Aug. 24, 1814, and the burning of Washington, D.C. Through a visitors center, walking and bike tours, historic sites, special events, and descriptive signage, visitors experience those dark days.

From Bladensburg in the north to Piscataway Park in the south, many sites will offer regular programming and special events throughout the summer.

The Bladensburg Waterfront Park, a part of the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area, is home to the Battle of Bladensburg Visitor Center, just downriver from the actual battle site.

A re-created gunboat and interpretive displays bring the conflict into focus. On Aug. 23, the park will host a 200th anniversary commemoration with the dedication of a new monument, an 1812-era festival, reenactments, demonstrations, music, food, and fireworks.

Stately Riversdale House, an elegant Federal-style manor house in Riverdale Park, stands literally within cannon shot of the Bladensburg Battlefield and witnessed the fight. Completed in 1807 for George Calvert, grandson of the fifth Lord Baltimore, this elegant architectural gem has been restored to reflect the lifestyle of the Calverts in Federal America. Rosalie Calvert’s letters and other archival records and archaeology provide a personal insight into life during the war. A “Hands-On History” camp focuses on learning for school age students.

Darnall’s Chance, in Upper Marlboro, played a key part in the arrest of Dr. William Beanes, whose release Francis Scott Key was negotiating when he witnessed the unsuccessful bombardment of Fort McHenry and penned The Star Spangled Banner.

Also in Upper Marlboro, Mount Calvert Historical Park saw the American gunboat fleet led by Joshua Barney on the Patuxent River. Looking downriver, the scene today is much the same as it was in 1814.

Along with the land assault, the

British also moved a flotilla up the Potomac River. The Accokeek Foundation’s National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park, in Accokeek, preserves a landscape from the time of the War of 1812. On July 12, the foundation will be “Celebrating the Potomac.” Enjoy music, food, exhibits, and deck tours of the Pride of Baltimore II. On July 13, Fort Washington Park, also overlooking the river, will host the War of 1812 Encampment & Commemoration. Visitors can experience an 1812 encampment with programs, exhibits, and cannon salutes between the fort and the Pride of Baltimore II as it sails by. The event will conclude with an evening musical tribute. North of Fort Washington, Oxon Cove Park also preserves a landscape and home that were part of the War of 1812. These sites all offer regular programs and most events or programs are free or low cost The town of Hyattsville joins the celebration on July 26 with the “Bursting in Air” art happening. Join the festivities as artists experience the War of 1812 through live painting of murals, music, and performances on Baltimore Avenue.

After routing the American troops at Bladensburg, the British forces

marched into Washington itself. The Aug. 24 invasion is the subject of a two-part walking tour, “Washington Is Burning! August 1814,” offered by Washington Walks, a walking guided tour company.

The route follows the British soldiers as they marched through America’s capital city, setting ablaze key government buildings and military targets. Many of the sites are also included on the Star-Spangled Banner National Trail, a 560-mile land and water route that tells the story of the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake Bay region.

The walks will be held on two weekends, Aug. 23-24 and Aug. 3031. Each walk lasts two hours and takes place rain or shine. Cost is $15 per person, and free for those ages 3 and younger.

Insider tip: A $5 discount is available for members of the U.S. military and employees of the federal government.

Capital for a day As the Redcoats entered the capital, American soldiers leaving Bladensburg and militiamen on their way to Baltimore passed through to Brookeville, northwest of the District.

Two nights later, after being on the run in northern Virginia, President

James Madison and members of his Cabinet also came to Brookeville and took refuge at the home of its postmaster. For 15 hours, Brookeville was the capital of the United States.

On Aug. 30 and 31, Brookeville will celebrate its status as “U.S. Capital for a Day” and re-create the life and spirit of August 1814. Living historians, craftspeople, and costumed volunteers will re-enact the extraordinary events of two centuries ago.

On Saturday evening, the town will welcome visitors with a period dinner and musical entertainment. On Sunday, Brookeville will hold a 200year family reunion for descendants of the townspeople and refugees who were there in 1814.

www.

additional coverage at recreationnews.com

For more information Anacostia Trails Heritage Area: marylandmilestones.org Brookeville: uscapitalforaday.org Prince George’s County War of 1812: princegeorges1812.org Star-Spangled Banner Trail: starspangledbannertrail.net Washington Walks: washingtonwalks.com Reed Hellman

Deck tours of the Pride of Baltimore II will be part of the commemoration of the role Prince George’s County played in the War of 1812.

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 7

travel line I carol timblin

Young and old will enjoy a visit to sweet-smelling Hershey You know you’re getting close to Hershey, Pa., when the air begins to smell like chocolate.

For chocolate lovers there’s no sweeter smell, so who would argue with Hershey’s claim to be the “sweetest place on earth”?

Last summer, we stayed at a timeshare near Hersheypark, within full view of the roller coasters and rides that bring joy to so many visitors, young and old. Next time, it would be fun to get the full Hershey experience by overnighting at the grand Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge. There are many advantages to doing that — the best price on Hersheypark tickets, one-hour early access to rides and attractions, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story museum, complimentary shuttle to the park, and an additional hour of preview time.

Even if you don’t stay in The Hotel Hershey, you should visit the luxurious property, which was built

by Milton S. Hershey during the height of the Great Depression. The successful businessman wanted a Mediterranean-style hotel that incorporated many of the features he and his wife, Catherine, had experienced during their European travels. The Hersheys invited 400 guests to the grand opening of the 170-room hotel in 1933.

Other features were added to the hotel in the late 1930s, including a golf course, the Castillian Ballroom, a wine cellar, and a bar. Other amenities, including The Spa at the Hotel Hershey (also knows as the Chocolate Spa), were added over the years and culminated with the recent renovation of the famous Circular Dining Room. Today, the AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Four-Star hotel, which also is a member of Historic Hotels of America, offers 276 guestrooms.

When you visit, be sure to try the special concoctions in the Cocoa Beanery coffee shop and the cocoa massage in the Chocolate Spa. Also, have a taste of the signature chocolate specials in the Iberian Lounge. On Sept. 14, check out The Hotel Hershey Wine & Food Festival. Many special packages are available. (thehotelhershey.com) This season’s visitors will find five new additions to Hersheypark, which already boasts more than 65 rides and attractions. New in the park are the Cocoa Cruiser, the Tea Cups, and the Sweet Swing, all rides suited for families. Chickie’s & Pete’s, a famous eatery in the Philadelphia/South Jersey area, has joined the park. Also new is the ticketing building near Tram Circle, which allows guests to purchase tickets before entering the front gate.

This year’s entertainment features high-energy song and dance revues, the California Sea Lions dueling pianists, and a game show. Visitors can also look forward to the concert series in The Music Box Theatre in September. You might want to download the park’s free app before you visit. (hersheypark.com) At Hershey’s Chocolate World, the visitor’s center that features a free Chocolate Tour ride, you can select special ingredients to create your very own chocolate bar. Then, watch as it is made from start to finish, exiting the automation belt with a personalized wrapper. (hersheys.com)

Music in the Mid-Atlantic You can hear music in the Mid-Atlantic’s high places this summer.

Virginia’s Wintergreen Summer Music Festival and Academy near Nellysford, Va., kicks off on July 7 and concludes Aug. 3. During the 28-day festival, 229 events — from informal gatherings to formal concerts and from cooking classes to tango lessons — will center on “Amazonas: The Rhythm and Colors of South America.”

Wintergreen Performing Arts will also host the ninth annual Blue Ridge Mountain Music Fest on Aug. 16. Featured artists this year are Nothin’ Fancy, five-time award winner from the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America; mandolin player Sierra Hull and her band; the Virginia Ramblers; and the Cary/Vigour group.

WPA’s final event for the year will be the Fall Festival, scheduled for Sept. 12-14. (wintergreen performingarts.org) On an 80-acre mountain plateau in Southwest Virginia, just off Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 170.5, Floyd Fest celebrates art and music for four days, July 23-27. More than 50 artists on seven stages will perform. Scheduled to appear are Lauryn Hill, Ziggy Marley, Ben Harper and Charlie Mussel White, Ray Lamontagne, Thievery Corporation, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Buddy Guy, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, J.J. Grey & Mofro, Lettuce, and others. Visitors can also enjoy workshops and demonstrations, more than 100 artisans and crafters, a variety of food, a healing arts area, and the Children’s Universe, featuring puppetry, workshops, playground, and babysitting services. (floydfest.com) The annual Shenandoah Valley Music Festival at Orkney Springs, Va., presents nine concerts from July 18-Aug. 31. Offerings include Rosanne Cash; “The Arrival,” an ABBA tribute group; “A Civil War Portrait” by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra; and the acapella group Straight No Chaser, among others. (musicfest.org)

Other Mid-Atlantic happenings

Carol Timblin

Wintergreen’s Summer Music Festival runs July 7-Aug. 3 at the Virginia resort.

The Capital Wheel at National Harbor opened Memorial Day Weekend. Soaring 180 feet above the Potomac River, it features 42 climate-controlled gondolas, which can accommodate up to eight passengers each. The VIP gondola seats four passengers and features glass floors, wine chillers, a retracting monitor/DVD player, and leather seats.

All the cars afford panoramic views of the National Mall, the White House, the U.S. Capitol, Arlington Cemetery, and other sites. Wolfgang Puck Cater-

8 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

ing offers concessions next to the wheel. (thecapitalwheel.com) “London Rocks” made its debut at Busch Gardens, Va., this season. It takes guests on a musical journey that explores the roots of rock ‘n’ roll and transforms the park’s Globe Theatre into a rousing 25-minute live action and multimedia rock spectacular. The new attraction, which involved more than 200 musical directors, designers, technicians, and artists, was four years in the making. (buschgardens.com/va) Next door to Busch Gardens, Water Country USA opened Colossal Curl, a mega-slide that features a funnel element that swishes and swirls guests before whisking then through enclosed tubes on their way to a wave element that hurtles them high above the park. (watercountryusa.com/ colossalcurl) The last week of July is an exciting time around the islands of Chincoteague and Assateague in Virginia. On July 26 and 27, saltwater cowboys will round up about 150 wild ponies on Assateague Island. Early on July 28, the cowboys will group the ponies on the island for the Beach Walk. On July 30, thousands of visitors will watch the 89th annual Wild Pony Swim across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. The Pony Auction, a fundraiser for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department, will be held the next day, July 31. (chincoteague.com) If you can’t be there for the swim, you may want to take a nature tour, including a cruise or kayak experience, offered by Assateague Explorer. Departing daily from the Assateague Nature Center through Oct. 5, the trip gives visitors the opportunity to see more than 300 wild ponies in their natural habitat, plus the lighthouse, dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. (chincoteaguechamber.com)

Orlando Milestones Orlando, Fla., recently completed one of the largest expansions in its history.

Walt Disney World Resort wrapped up a multiyear project that doubled the size of Fantasyland and saw the debut of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, a family-friendly coaster that takes visitors through the mine. Opening in August is the 444-room Four Seasons Resort.

Universal Orlando Resort expanded The Wizarding World of Harry Potter across both of its parks with the addition of Diagon Alley, making it possible for visitors to travel between Hogsmeade and London aboard the Hogwarts Express and experience a brand new ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Cabana Bay Beach Resort is the fourth onsite hotel at Universal Orlando Resort and features family suites, a 10-lane bowling alley, and two pool areas. (visitorlando.com) A preview of Orlando’s Magical Dining Month is planned for the week of Aug. 25-31. Three-course prix-fixe dinners for $33 will be offered in September.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort will take place Sept.19Nov. 10. (visitorlando.com).

Carol Timblin welcomes travel news at ctimblin@ gmail.com.

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agritourism I karen graham

Farm-themed entertainment Agritourism is more than picking your own fruit The popularity of the farm-to-fork and buy-local movements make this a good time to get out and explore some of the farms in the Mid-Atlantic. The opportunities go beyond pick-your-own venues and farmers markets to well-organized and entertaining agritourism attractions. Be sure to check websites for seasonal hours and activities.

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sample of some places to visit:

MARYLAND Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Orchard 22000 Davis Mill Road, Germantown, Md. 301-972-3299, butlersorchard.com A farm for the whole family, Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has pickyour-own vegetables and fruits, as well as a farmers market and special events throughout the year.

Upcoming events include the Potato Festival in

August and the Pumpkin Festival in the fall.

Carroll County Farm Museum 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org The farm recreates mid-19th-century rural life, with costumed guides explaining everything from cooking techniques and dining etiquette to entertainment and hygiene. Artisans and crafters demonstrate 1800s skills. There are special events on most weekends.

Homestead Farm 15604 Sugarland Road, Poolesville, Md. 301-977-3761, homestead-farm.net Homestead Farm is owned by the Allnutt family, which has been farming this area near the Potomac

River since 1763. The farm now consists of 230 acres and offers a wide variety of pick-your-own fruits and vegetables including strawberries, cherries, blackberries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins.

Misty Meadow Farm Creamery 14325 Misty Meadow Road, Smithsburg, Md. 301-824-2112, mistymeadowsfarmcreamery.com This 370-acre farm is a popular destination for local school groups and field trips. With advance notice, the farm can arrange to take visitors on a wagon tour around the farm to see the dairy and creamery, crops in the fields, soil conservation, and rotational grazing, along with a variety of farm animals.

In the fall, the corn maze draws big crowds. Visitors can see and taste Misty Meadowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homemade ice cream, bottled milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Back to Our Roots!

Canaan Valley fun

Making Family Memories at

Hands-on activities, exhibits and petting zoo 304-259-5611 farmdiscoverycenter.com Adventures on horseback

OVER 50 FARM FUN THINGS TO DO plus the Amazing Maize MazeÂŽ in the heart of PA Dutch Country

Open thru Nov. 8th

V ISIT

OUR WEBSITE FOR SCHEDULE !

304-866-6326 timberlineresort.com

Mountain Trail Rides Guided horseback riding and family fun 304-866-4652 mountaintrailrides.com

Visit Old Maryland Farm at Watkins Regional Park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an educational agricultural facility with hands-on activities and live animals!

People of all ages can enjoyâ&#x20AC;Ś r "HSJDVMUVSBM FYIJCJUT r -JWFTUPDL r %JTQMBZ HBSEFOT r )BZSJEFT

Ride the carousel, take a hayride to the pumpkin patch, conquer the maze, pig races & more!

Check out the website for special weekend events.

2915 Willow Run Rd. near downtown Harrisonburg, VA

540-442-6493 WWW.BACKHOME-ONTHEFARM.COM

Old Maryland Farm 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-218-6770, pgparks.com Old Maryland Farm is part of the popular Watkins Regional Park. It is a learning farm, where visitors can see the animals and enjoy a hayride.

There are additional programs on farm animal care, beekeeping, raising chickens, and other topics, all listed on the website. Admission is free, and the farm has a wide assortment continued on page 18

Pick your own fun at one of our many destinations on the Fields of Gold Farm Trail.

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recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 11

caverns I jane and marvin bond

Caverns offer tours and more The fascinating formations and colors of the Mid-Atlanticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underground caverns are a treat for adults

and children to enjoy together.

The commercial show caves offer educational tours, a constant temper-

ature in the mid-50s to cool you on a hot summer day, and a host of additional entertainment options. Some caverns also offer adventure cave experiences, but check for reservation requirements.

The regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s caverns also offer gift shops that range from country chic to 1950s kitsch. Each cavernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience is reasonably priced and fun for the whole family. Tours generally last about an hour, but check websites for specific tour hours that might vary seasonally.

Most cavernsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites also have discounted admission offers, but not all are open year-round. Remember to take a jacket and good walking shoes!

Pennsylvania Crystal Cave Park, Kutztown 610-683-6765, crystalcavepa.com This was the first commercial cave in Pennsylvania. At its free museum, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see artifacts and an Omnibus that was used to transport early tourists.

You can also pan for gems, play miniature golf, walk the nature trail, and enjoy the ice cream parlor and cafĂŠ during July and August. Historic lantern tours are offered Saturday and Sunday evenings in July and August with reservations.

Indian Caverns, Spruce Creek 814-632-7578, indiancaverns.com The Wertz family has operated Indian Caverns for 85 years and offers a tour featuring Native American history and artifacts and a room with naturally phosphorescent calcite formations. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see the largest sheet of flowstone in the Northeast. Primitive campgrounds have been added, and the cave offers three-hour photo tours for amateur and professional photographers.

Indian Echo Caverns, Hummelstown 717-566-8131, indianechocaverns.com Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 45-minute tour complete with legends of the Susquehannock Indians and the Pennsylvania Hermit, William Wilson. See calcite formations and underground lakes.

Outside, pan for gemstones, visit the petting zoo, and see real Texas longhorn cattle. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all close to Hersheyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attractions and is open all year.

Laurel Caverns, Hopwood 800-515-4150, laurelcaverns.com This is Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest cavern and celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2014 with a focus on learning as well as sightseeing with the theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where learning goes under-

Crystal Cave Park

Towering formations greet visitors to Crystal Cave Park, Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first commercial show cave, near Kutztown. â&#x20AC;˘ Large Gift Shop â&#x20AC;˘ Gemstone Panning â&#x20AC;˘ Cave CafĂŠ â&#x20AC;˘ Picnic Facilities â&#x20AC;˘ Group Tours Welcome

Our Newest Tours!

Shenandoah Caverns

The Diamond Cascade in Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shenandoah Caverns has often served as a site for weddings.

by reservation only

222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall, Pa 814.364.1664 www.pennscave.com

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Open Daily 9am -5 pm

Tour Historic Caverns, coupon Pan for Gemstones,Gift Shop, Enjoy our Peî&#x20AC;&#x201A;ing area! www.INDIANECHOCAVERNS.com

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717-566-8131

â&#x17E;§ Underground tours â&#x17E;§ Museum & nature trail â&#x17E;§ Pan for gems â&#x17E;§ Restaurant & ice cream parlor â&#x17E;§ Miniature golf â&#x17E;§ Gift and souvenir buildings

1st Show Cave in

Between Allentown and Reading in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country

963 Crystal Cave Rd. Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-6765 www.crystalcavepa.com

ground.” Various caving and rappelling activities are offered in addition to a guided tour. You can pan for fossils and gemstones or play mini-golf.

Lincoln Caverns, Huntingdon 814-643-0268, lincolncaverns.com Located near Raystown Lake, the attraction offers a tour of Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks and is offering flashlight adventures and photography tours on select dates this summer with advance reservations. You can pan for gemstones and take a walk on the nature trail as well.

Lost River Caverns, Hellertown 610-838-8767, lostcave.com The tour is a walking one, but you do see a part of the Lost River in the cave. You also can enjoy the Gilman Museum’s artifacts and antique guns and the rock shop with new minerals, fossils, and fluorescents.

Penn’s Cave, Centre Hall 814-364-1664, pennscave.com Located near Penn State University, Penn’s Cave might be the most unusual of the nine commercial show caves in Pennsylvania, because its tour is by boat. For a separate fee, you can see the African Adventure Museum and also take a 90-minute

VA’S FAMOUS SKYLINE CAVERNS with this ad

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Woodward Cave, Woodward 814-349-9800, woodwardcave.com The property offers a tour of its cave formations and has a 13-acre campground and cabin rentals.

Among the five underground rooms are the Hall of Statues, a 200-foot-long underground space that includes a 14-foot stalagmite, and the Ballroom, actually used for square dances and banquets.

Maryland Crystal Grottoes, Boonsboro 240-217-7623, crystalgrottoescaverns.com The cave is about an hour from Washington and Baltimore and claims to have more formations per square foot than any other known cave. The thirdgeneration owner says he learned the tour script from his grandfather when he was 6 years old.

WHERE

HISTORY RUNS DEEP

Virginia Dixie Caverns, Salem 540-380-2085, dixiecaverns.com Located near Roanoke, this is the southernmost Mid-Atlantic cavern, and its tour takes you up into the mountain and down into its depths.

Above ground, there is year-round camping, a rock and mineral shop, and an antiques mall.

Open all year.

Endless Caverns, New Market 540-896-2283, endlesscaverns.com The caverns feature miniature pools, draperies, and columns, and it’s true that no end has been found to the cave.

Endless also offers a campground and RV park above ground and is open until Oct. 31. continued on page 19

Cave mansion.

Grottoes, VA

1.888.430.CAVE

$2 off adult admission $1 off child admission

• 1-hour Guided Tour • Miniature Train • Mirror Maze • See Rare Anthodites

guided wildlife tour that includes North American animals such as the cave’s icon, the cougar. Kids and adults can also enjoy panning for gems and eating bison or longhorn burgers in the café.

OPEN ALL YEAR! 10344 Stonewall Jackson Hwy., Front Royal VA 22630 Easy Access from 1-66 & 1-81

GRAND CAVERNS

LurayCaverns.com

A National Natural Landmark

www.grandcaverns.com Please call or visit us on the web for adventure tour information.

Experience natural underground streams and waterfalls and delight in hanging gardens, flowstone cascades, totem poles and other natural formations.

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 13

maryland I jane and marvin bond

Checking out what’s new in Maryland’s Ocean City For countless area families, summer means a trip “downy ocean” to Ocean City, Md. Each new summer brings changes, but this year there are lots of new places to explore and changes to some old standbys as well.

Book Your ocean citY, MD Vacation noW! Located directly on the beach and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll get the best in Ocean City resorts with unmatched comfort and convenience.

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FAMILY FLING

The pink Holiday Inn Oceanfront at 66th Street still offers oceanfront rooms and its poolside bar, but its longtime favorite restaurant Reflections is being replaced by a Touch of Italy eatery, the third in a group that includes restaurants in Rehoboth and Lewes. The hotel is also featuring nightly magic shows in conjunction with the Dickens Theatre from Millville, Del. A separate new Holiday Inn Express is now open on the north end of town.

Another familiar landmark accommodation, Dunes Manor Hotel, renovated all rooms last year and has a new management team that’s determined to keep the best of the popular Victorianthemed hotel while adding new touches and amenities. “One thing that definitely continues is the popular afternoon tea for guests that features our own house-made tea blend,” said the hotel’s Kyle Johnson.

The renovated rooms, all oceanfront, are beachthemed instead of Victorian, but the public spaces continue with the vision of Thelma Connor, who carried out the dream she had shared with her husband when she opened the hotel at age 74 in 1987.

Diners in Alexander’s Restaurant enjoy an unobstructed view of the beach. The hotel also offers the Zippy Lewis Lounge, Milton’s Café, and the

Enjoy deluxe guestroom accommodations, 4 passes to Jolly Rogers Splash Mountain Water Park, 4 passes to Old Pro Golf and a $150 food and beverage credit. Available: 06/05/2014 - 08/30/2014

101st Street & Oceanfront • Ocean City, MD

800.638.2800 clarionoc.com • marigotbeachsuites.com

:[dW the babysitter.

Barefoot Beach Bar. It’s all at 28th Street near the end of the Boardwalk.

Check out the food Beach vacations are often as much about the food as the beach and the accommodations, and Ocean City can handle your preferences from fine dining to fast family fare.

In the first category, Fager’s Island continues to be a favorite with fantastic sunset views accompanied by the “1812 Overture” and confetti. Lite fare, drinks, and entertainment are also available onsite.

There’s a lot of new action in the 32nd Street to 35th Street area, where Anthony’s Beer & Wine now offers its overstuffed subs with café seating and bar area. Guido Burritos is also setting up shop in the area, and Ish Boutique has expanded on 35th Street.

Perhaps the most notable change in the area is the new Barn 34 restaurant. Mike and Maryanne Lawson long operated the popular Pirate’s Den which was razed to make way for a new LaQuinta Hotel. The enterprising Lawsons took possession of the nearby Christmas Spirit Shop on 34th Street, which was originally built with wood from 13 East Coast barns.

“We had to take down a lot of the interior barn wood to re-wire the building as a restaurant,” said Maryanne Lawson. “But we put it back so the building retains its character.”

Insider tip: Another thing that hasn’t changed is the great breakfast and burgers.

Five Guys is now serving up its burgers on 136th Street and old favorite Harpoon Hannah’s across the Delaware line has remodeled its dining room and is adding decks.

Craft beer lovers familiar with Shorebilly Brewing should now look for it as Backshore Brewing. OC Brewing Company has joined the local scene as both brewery and family restaurant that features 15-foot Oktoberfest-style tables.

A new addition to the nightlife scene is Cowboy Coast Cantina, opening in the old Paddock bar space.

?S]W time for just the two of you.

Adults-Only Concierge Level Romantic Oceanfront Accommodations Private Rooftop Sundeck & Hot Tub Full-Menu Room Service All Day Pampering Evening Turndown

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14 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

Don’t miss Berlin It’s only eight miles from Ocean City to the town of Berlin, but it’s as though you’ve stepped into another time.

Instead of needing your car to navigate Coastal Highway, you park in one of the numerous free spaces and stroll wherever you’d like to go.

The Victorian ambiance of Ocean City’s Dunes Manor Hotel is the norm in Berlin, which assumed different roles as the backdrop for the films Tuck Everlasting and Runaway continued on page 17

SEIZE the

vacation day!

You’ve worked long and hard to earn your vacation days, so make sure you get the most out of them. Ocean City, MD has 10 miles of free beach, a 3-mile boardwalk and FREE exciting events six nights a week, all summer long. So book a trip with us and treat yourself— along with your vacation days!

O.C. BEACH LIGHTS

FREE FAMILY PROGRAMS

Laser light show on the beach EVERY SUNDAY, NOW THROUGH AUGUST 31

Beach safety, aquarium feeding and shark history EVERY MORNING, JULY 7–AUGUST 30

FAMILY BEACH OLYMPICS

CONCERTS ON THE BEACH

Sand castle contests, tug of war, relay games and more EVERY TUESDAY, NOW THROUGH AUGUST 5

Music concerts on the sand EVERY WEDNESDAY, JULY 9–AUGUST 27

SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHTS

SUNDAES IN THE PARK

Concerts overlooking the bay EVERY THURSDAY, JUNE 26–AUGUST 28

Concerts, fireworks and ice cream EVERY SUNDAY, JULY 13–AUGUST 24

BEACH FIREWORKS Amazing fireworks show on the beach EVERY MONDAY & TUESDAY, JULY 7–AUGUST 26

Explore Ocean City and Assateague Island National Seashore.

Shop and dine in our charming coastal towns.

Plan your escape today!

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BEACHANDBEYOND.ORG 800-852-0335

MONDAY & FRIDAYS, NOW THROUGH AUGUST 8 WEDNESDAYS, NOW THROUGH AUGUST 27 THURSDAYS, JULY 3–AUGUST 28

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2 Nights Dunes Manor Hotel at the Hotel Oceanfront in Ocean City, MD Voted “Best Hotel in Ocean City” by the readers of The Baltimore Sun

Includes a $25.00 Food & Beverage Credit in the Victorian Room or Zippy Lewis Lounge CONTEST RULES

CONGRATULATIONS!

1. Fill out coupon at right legibly and completely.

June Parkersburg Getaway Winner 2. Mail to RecNews Contest Dept., 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 Kevin Jones of Fort Washington, MD OR enter online at RecreationNews.com OR fax this form to 410-638-6902.

3. You may also email to publisher@recreationnews.com. Provide all information in the form at right and enter “JULY CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 07/15/2014.

4. If the winner does not respond within five days another winner will be selected.

Limit one entry per household. July winner will be drawn at random from the pool of all entries received on time with legible information and will be published in next month’s issue and notified by phone, UPS or email. Winner will be drawn at random from the pool of all entries received on time with legible information, and notified on July, 17, 2014. Winner must respond by July, 22, 2014 to claim prize, or prize forfeits to a runner up. For both locations, reservations are based on availability, and certain restrictions apply. Valid 9/1/14 through 5/1/15, based on availability.

Name _______________________________________________________ Address Line 1 __________________________________________________ Address Line 2 __________________________________________________ City ________________________________ State _____ Zip Code _________ Phone ____________________ Email_______________________________ NOTE: Phone and email are required for notification and will not be shared.

From the information in this issue of Recreation News, what is your favorite destination?

We’ll mail you information on this spot at no charge, or check here ® to “go green” and have the information emailed.

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 15

16 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

maryland I dave williams

Maryland mountains yield authentic experiences A century ago, Maryland’s mountain communities flourished as a gateway to the west from the Mid-Atlantic’s farms and cities. First surveyed by young George Washington in 1748, upper Potomac River towns like Cumberland boomed with Victorian opulence as the juncture of three major railroads, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, and the National Road. Their success was further buoyed by boundless acres of timber, coal, and fresh mountain water.

These same elements now combine to make Mountain Maryland the fastest growing visitor destination in the state with experiences that appeal to a multitude of tastes.

Completion of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail into Pittsburgh now connects hikers and cyclists with a 280-mile experience all the way to Georgetown in Washington, D.C. The Rocky Gap Resort Casino provides year-round gaming entertainment.

The explosive growth of DelFest into one of America’s premiere acoustic music festivals has energized Allegany County’s two Main Street Arts and Entertainment Districts.

“Outdoor recreation, arts development, historic preservation, and transportation heritage attractions are the four pillars of our increased popularity as a getaway,” explained Barb Buehl, who promotes the area. “The other key is our commitment to technology, moving the content of our award-winning mdmountainside.com website into the mobile environment to help visitors pre-plan their itineraries and navigate once they’re here.”

Get outside The Mountain Maryland region features more than 60,000 acres of parks and forests in Allegany County alone. The outdoor experience varies from the rugged primitive camping and challenging trails in Green Ridge State Forest to the gentle grade of the C&O Canal Towpath. More than 85,000 people are estimated to annually use the towpath and the connected Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail.

berland’s bricked town center is home to many art galleries and loft-living visual artists. There’s free live music every weekend in the downtown area.

Frostburg’s Main Street has a college town vibe with a vibrant music pub scene and broad programming in the restored Palace Theater. Both districts are rich with small shops and local restaurants.

Preserving history Cumberland enchants visitors with a large number of preserved homes and public buildings in the Canal Place Historic Preservation District.

The Allegany Museum, the Gilchrist Gallery and Museum, and Gordon-Roberts House offer public tours and exhibits featuring three centuries of local history.

Stroll up Washington Street and you pass 150 years of American residential architecture that’s listed on the National Historic Register.

Mountain thunder

Artful entertainment Allegany County’s two largest cities both offer designated arts and entertainment districts. Cum-

Allegany Co. Tourism

The Western Maryland Station Center at Canal Place is home to two living history attractions — the National Park Service’s C&O Canal Interpretive Center and the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. The railroad runs weekend round-trip excursion trains between Cumberland and Frostburg.

Rail enthusiasm peaks toward the end of the season with a Steel Wheels Festival, Sept. 26-28, which includes special exhibits, tours, and train experiences. It’s all followed by fall foliage trains in October and children’s Santa trains in December.

Insider tip: The trip up the mountain to Frostburg takes you through the Narrows and the curving Brush Tunnel. The turntables at the Frostburg Depot are a favorite part of the trip.

“The difference between visiting Mountain Maryland and many other weekend getaways, we think, is authenticity and variety,” says Buehl.

Recorded history begins here as a British government outpost. Transportation through the Narrows portal to the West made Cumberland into Maryland’s second largest city by the 1920s. Today, it’s all just a few additional coverage at hours away from recreationnews.com the D.C. area.

www.

Biking is a popular pastime along the Great Alleheny Passage, which turns east at Cumberland to follow the C&O Canal towpath.

Ocean City continued from page 14 Bride. More recently, the town won the 2014 title as “Coolest Small Town in America” in a Budget Travel contest.

“This is one of the best things to happen to any town,” Lisa Challenger, who promotes the area, said about the title. “It’s fabulous to say that about Berlin!”

The Atlantic Hotel anchors a prime spot on Main

Street and a meal on the porch lets you watch the world go by. The hotel’s Victorian theme carries into the rooms upstairs. Rayne’s Reef, across the street, also offers meals and a classic soda fountain.

Around the corner, the Globe is a combination restaurant, art gallery, and performance venue.

Chef Toby Gilbert changes the menu at Blacksmith daily based on his creations from local food finds.

Burley Oak Craft brewery also uses local farm products to create its various brews.

There are plenty of antique shops and other

For more information Allegany Co. Tourism: mdmountainside.com

shopping opportunities in town, but you can relax for a while at the Main Street Enchanted Tea Room or get an energy boost at the Baked Dessert Café and Gallery where they serve Berlin’s “official” dessert, a peach dumpling.

Carriage rides are also available on Main Street, just as a reminder that things move a little slower here.

Learn more Worcester Co. Tourism: visitworcester.org Ocean City Tourism: ococean.com

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 17

FREE IN D.C.

The National Mall is the place to be for the nation’s birthday party on July 4.

The Independence Day parade starts at 11:45am on Constitution Ave. (july4thparade.com) . . . The National Archives has a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence beginning at 10:00am, followed by family activities. (archives.gov) . . . The Smithsonian Folklife Festival finishes up its two-week run from 11:00am to 5:00pm. (festival.si.com) . . . Tom Bergeron, of “Dancing With the Stars,” hosts a patriotic concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol at 8:00pm (pbs.org/capitalfourth/concert). The concert concludes with a spectacular fireworks show. (nps.gov/foju/fireworks) — gwen woolf

Agritourism continued from page 10 of animals. Near the farm, inside the park, you’ll find an antique carousel and a miniature train ride.

Oxon Hill Farm 6411 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Md. 301-839-1176, nps.gov/oxhi Run by the National Park Service, this is the site of an 1812-era plantation, and most of the programs and activities reflect farm life from that era.

There’s a self-guided tour and hands-on programs that let kids try to milk a cow, gather eggs, and do other farm chores. Most of those are on weekends.

The full schedule is on the website.

VIRGINIA Back Home on the Farm 2915 Willow Run Road, Harrisonburg, VA 540-442-6493, backhome-onthefarm.com Open from mid-June through mid-August, the farm has the usual farm animals and activities, but the two most unusual draws are a butterfly conservatory that opens in late June and an antique carousel that’s fully restored. The farm is popular for special events, so call before heading there on a weekend to make sure it’s open.

Frying Pan Farm Park 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, Va. 703-437-9101, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks The park re-creates farm life from 1920-1950, before microwaves and high-definition TVs. There are lots of old tractors, plus a blacksmith’s forge, a smokehouse, a dairy, and kitchen garden. In addition to wagon rides and farmyard animals, there’s a country store with local produce and homemade baked goods. On the first and third Saturday of each month, there’s an informal acoustic jam session with local pickers.

Great Country Farm and Bluemont Vineyard 18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, Va. 540-554-2073 Great Country Farm has something fun to offer people of all ages; this is one of the only farms that provides a free wine tasting “Farm Flight” coupon with the purchase of admission. At the farm, check out the new triple threat slide, which provides great views of the farm, as well as the extensive kids play area, pick-your-own crops,

Maryland Ice Cream Trail

Take time this summer to visit dairy farms and creameries around Maryland, and you can qualify to win a prize. Print out an Ice Cream Trail Passport, visit all the locations, and answer questions along the trail by Sept. 15 to qualify for a grand prize drawing. There are eight farms on the trail, from Ocean City to Washington County. There is also a Geocaching Ice Cream Passport trail along which you can find hidden “caches.” (marylandsbest.net) — karen graham

and freshly made donuts in the farm market. Then, drive across the street and up a winding drive to Bluemont Vineyard, which is owned by the same family.

Posey Thisisit Llama Farm 754 Harrisville Road, Toms Brook, Va. 540-436-3517, poseythisisitllamas.com This is a 27-acre farm in the northern Shenandoah Valley where you can visit with llamas and see the wool-dyeing process at select times during July and August.

Wool-producing sheep also are on the farm, along with their wool, yarn, and wool products.

It’s best to call to find out what’s happening on the farm.

Ticonderoga Farms 26469 Ticonderoga Road, Chantilly, Va. 703-327-4424, ticonderoga.com Located in Fairfax County, Ticonderoga has special events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy walking the longest swinging bridge in Virginia, riding the cow trains and slides, and roasting s’mores. Popular events include the Fig Festival in the summer and the Fall Festival, which includes hayrides and pumpkin picking.

The Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns 261 Caverns Road, Shenandoah Caverns, Va. 888-4CAVERN, shenandoahcaverns.com Located just off exit 269 of I-81, Yellow Barn offers visitors a whimsical look at our agricultural heritage with historical displays, including restored antique farm wagons, carriages, a 25-foot tobacco press, and a working beehive. Monthly country music concerts also are featured.

PENNSYLVANIA Amish Farm and House 2395 Covered Bridge Drive, Lancaster, Pa. 717-394-6185, amishfarmandhouse.com This 15-acre site demonstrates the life of the Amish with a farmhouse, as well as a tobaccostripping room, blacksmith forge, farm animals, and smokehouse. Resident crafters demonstrate woodcarving and quilting. The playground has a “scooter run” and other burn-off-the-energy games.

For an additional fee, there’s a 90-minute narrated driving tour of the Amish area in a minibus.

The website has prices, discount coupons, and hours.

d FIELDS OF GOLD

From picking fruit in an orchard to taking a tour of a farm to experiencing local festivals, the Fields of Gold program is a wonderful resource for exploring agritourism opportunities in the central Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The website is set up with maps, an ongoing list of events and activities, a description of what seasonal products are available, and much more. There are links to the towns in the area, as well as a comprehensive directory of Fields of Gold members. Visitors can also click on the type of activity or experience they would like and the site will provide a list of places to explore. (fieldsofgold.org)

18 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, Pa. 717-687-6843, cherrycrestfarm.com A farm-themed theme park and education center with the feel of a country fair, Cherry Crest features a farm animal center, beehive observation area, and a baby chick hatchery.

There are also games, including a rubber duck race and pedal kart racetrack. There are many food vendors selling an array of goodies you won’t be able to resist.

DELAWARE Woodside Farm Creamery 1310 Little Baltimore Road, Hockessin, Del. 302-239-9847, woodsidefarmcreamery.com Open from early April through late October, the creamery sells farm fresh homemade ice cream, ice cream pies, homemade fudge, and more.

Check the website for special events listings.

Customers can enjoy their ice cream — made in unique flavors — while sitting in a bucolic setting observing the Jersey cows in the fields.

Lavender Fields 18864 Cool Spring Road, Milton, Del. 302-684-1514, lavenderfieldsde.com July is the peak blooming season for fragrant lavender.

Many different varieties of the flowering herb grow here, each one planted and tended by hand.

The shop is filled with aromatic bunches hanging to dry. Kids are welcome.

Willow Rock Gardens 2104 Sewell Branch Road, Clayton, Del. 302-223-8190, willowrockgardensllc.com Here you’ll find daylily overload, with more than 2,300 varieties of the flowers planted in 50 themed beds.

Some of the gardens are traditional, while others are pure fun — like the ladybug bed planted around an old tractor that has been painted like the Delaware state bug.

There are gentle activities for kids, like drawing and painting sites, and a staff that’s happy to encourage their questions and curiosity.

WEST VIRGINIA Farm Discovery Center 1003 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, W.Va. 304-259-5611, mountaintrailrides.com/farmdiscovery.html Located inside Blackwater Falls State Park, the center uses hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and friendly animals to help visitors learn about agriculture.

Learn how to milk a cow from a life-sized model and grind corn with a hand grist mill. Plus, learn more about where our food comes from.

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RUISE

orner michelle & karl teel

Crossing the Canals of France A Le Boat vacation lets you be your own captain as you navigate French waterways How often is it that your vacation can be described as both relaxing and exhilarating? That it provides stimulation and learning balanced with just letting go of stress? How valuable would it be to discover such a vacation?

Look no further, for we have found it for you. Recently, we took a Le Boat canal boat vacation and toured through France, just south of Paris, and it was a vacation of a lifetime.

Admittedly, while we were experienced boaters on the Chesapeake Bay, we were unfamiliar with maneuvering a canal boat, and certainly unfamiliar with the French canal system. But Le Boat rents to people who have never boated a day in their lives and gives on-the-spot training. And, navigation is easy since it is impossible to get lost on a canal.

Still, the first few hours were spent in an unwarranted mode of hyper-vigilance. Similarly, the initial navigation of locks also kept us on our toes, but

in no time, we were totally at ease.

We quickly adjusted to the craft and found it remarkably accommodating. Eventually, three of the four travelers in our group learned to drive the boat.

Our trip was aboard the 36-foot Clipper — quite a coincidence given our Chesapeake Bay heritage — with a saloon and separate galley that gave us plenty of room for socializing. It was easy to access the upper sun deck, which had a second steering position and provided 360-degree views.

The two double en suite cabins made it a perfect boat for two couples, but the craft can sleep up to six people since the love seat in the saloon converts into a third double bed.

Each stateroom comes with comfortable bedding, storage for clothes and luggage, and an en suite bathroom with plenty of hot water for showers.

The galley kitchen was equipped with an oven (we baked pizza), plus a cook top to heat water for coffee or cook a meal.

The kitchen also had a refrigerator, which we needed for the eggs we bought fresh from the lock keeper, the wine we purchased along the way from vineyards, the cheese we bought in the villages, and the delicious pastries and breads we got daily at each small town’s bakery (or “boulangerie”).

We had many opportunities to dine in the towns, take in the sights, and mingle with the locals, all of whom were friendly, helpful, and willing to please, even if they didn’t speak much English and we could only speak a smattering of French.

Because of the fine weather, we did all of our driving from the upper deck. It was very peaceful

Caverns

Luray Caverns, Luray 540-743-6551, luraycaverns.com Luray is known as the largest cavern in the East. Its tour includes massive columns and music from the famous “stalacpipe” organ. Admission includes the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, the new Luray Valley Museum and gem sluice, and Toy Town Junction’s massive collection of toys and trains. A garden maze attraction is extra, as is the Rope Adventure Park with three levels of rope challenges. Open all year.

mile nature trail is free. Open all year.

Natural Bridge Caverns, Natural Bridge 800-533-1410, naturalbridgeva.com This is the deepest cavern in the East, is relatively young for a cave, and is one of the region’s most “active” caves. The tour takes you 34-stories deep into the earth to see straws, flowstone cascades, draperies, and pools.

The Natural Bridge, Monocan Indian Village, and other activities are on the property, as is the Natural Bridge Hotel.

Organ Cave, Organ Cave 304-645-7600, organcave.com This is said to be the second-largest cave in the eastern U.S., and its history involved Thomas Jefferson and the Civil War. You can choose the 90-minute walking tour, a Civil War tour, or, with advance reservation, one of the guided adventure tours. Open all year.

continued from page 13 Grand Caverns, Grottoes 888-430-CAVE, grandcaverns.com This is said to be the oldest U.S. show cave, and on your tour you’ll see Civil War-era graffiti and unusual shield formations. The park also offers hiking and biking trails and an Olympic-sized pool.

New adventure tours of a wild cave begin in July for groups of five to 10 with advance reservations, and there’s a bluegrass festival Sept. 5-7. Natural Chimneys, an above-ground sister attraction, is nearby. Open all year.

Penn’s Cave

Shenandoah Caverns, Shenandoah Caverns 888-4CAVERN, shenandoahcaverns.com The tour of 17 underground rooms includes calcite formations like the Diamond Cascade. A combination ticket gets you into an exhibit of holiday department store windows, a parade float hall of fame, The Yellow Barn’s country-themed exhibits, and Virginia Wine Shop. The first Saturday of each month the Shenandoah Jamboree entertains in The Yellow Barn. Open all year.

Penn’s Cave has the only cave tour by boat in the Mid-Atlantic.

Skyline Caverns, Front Royal 800-296-4545, skylinecaverns.com Located at the north entrance to Skyline Drive and the closest to Washington, the caverns include rare anthodites and three streams, as well as the Rainbow Waterfall and an award-winning lighting system. You can take a miniature train ride or navigate the Mirror Maze for an additional fee. A half-

continued on page 20

West Virginia Lost World Caverns, Lewisburg 866-228-3778, lostworldcaverns.com An unusual self-guided tour allows you to spend as much or as little time as you like admiring the formations. The attraction also includes a natural history museum with the largest collection of dinosaur and fossil replicas in West Virginia. There are four-hour wild cave tours as well. Open all year.

Seneca Caverns, Riverton 800-239-7647, senecacaverns.com West Virginia’s largest cave was discovered by the Seneca Indians. It features dramatic flowstone formations. There is a separate guided stratosphere adventure caving experience for which you bring your own lights, as well as a caveXplore option that teaches basic caving. You can mine for gemstones or enjoy the on-site family restaurant, all in the beautiful setting of Seneca Rocks.

Smoke Hole Caverns, Seneca Rocks 800-828-8478, smokehole.com There’s a cavern tour that includes gravitydefying helectites and the world’s longest ribbon stalactite. You’ll also find a variety of cabins, camping, “Moonshine Mining,” and what may be West Virginia’s largest gift shop. The caverns were used by Native Americans, Civil War soldiers, and even moonshiners. Kids can pan for gemstones or fossils. Open all year.

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 19

Cruise corner continued from page 19 and quiet as we glided by the sights while basking in the sun and enjoying a birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-eye view. During our cruise, we passed through 27 locks, fascinating examples of engineering from the 1500s through the 1800s, where changes in elevation beyond the natural gentle fall of the river were managed via an aquatic elevator. Some were manned by a lock keeper, others we triggered automatically. We enjoyed working with the lock keepers to open and shut the gates and often purchased items from them such as postcards, wine, and ice cream.

Passing though the French countryside Our canal cruise took us from Decize, about two-and-a-half hours south of Paris, to Chatillionsu-Loire, along a planned route called â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sparkling Cruise.â&#x20AC;? We cruised on the Canal lateral a la Loire, which follows the Loire River through the gently sloping hills, which were often covered with vineyards. We sailed past many quaint old villages, then docked and rode our bikes, discovering amazing chateaux and ancient churches. We explored countless winding little streets filled with unique shops and picturesque houses, discovered cemeteries and waterfront parks, and picnicked

beneath grand old trees.

Each day yielded a new set of sights to enjoy, the majority being things you simply cannot see in America. Our favorites were the buildings that dated from as early as the 1100s, including medieval villages, cathedrals, churches, and castles â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or, as the French call them, chateaux.

The countryside was full of vineyards, pastures, meadows filled with cows and sheep, and expansive fields of red poppies and wildflowers. A wide variety of birds, lakes, and the canopy of blue sky and puffy white clouds all added to the relaxing bucolic experience. We never tired of seeing what was around the next bend, bridge, or lock. We set our own schedule, waking when we felt like it, walking or biking to buy our fresh bakery goods, and then shoving off when we were ready. We cruised until we reached a town that piqued our interest where we stopped to explore.

The only excursion we booked was in Sancerre.

The winery and vineyard tour also included a tasting in a goat cheese store and a tour of Sancerre and a couple of other nearby small towns.

Sancerre sits atop a ridge above the Loire that can be seen from miles around and provides gorgeous views of the many hillside vineyards that produce several varietals of delicious whites and a pinot noir. The visit to the winery was educational, as well as a great chance to meet the â&#x20AC;&#x153;farmerâ&#x20AC;? (vineyard owner) and some British visitors to the area.

The towns along the way Decize â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Our town of departure along the Loire River, two hours south of Paris.

Michelle Teel Fluery-sur-Loire â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A very small town of perhaps 100 people with overnight docking and a Our craft was a fully equipped 36-foot model. About a dozen other sizes are available. small pub. A great place Michelle Teel to bicycle and discover the nearby castle, Chateau de Chevenon.

Nevers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; This medieval walled city, roughly the size of Annapolis, Md., is home to the shrine of St. Bernadette, a beautiful cathedral from the 12th century, as well as a dukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace and medieval town & ' $ & & ' square, where we enjoyed a great dinner. $ & $ &' ' $& La Charite-su-Loire

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Like FREE tickets?

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Just Like Us!

â&#x20AC;˘ Northern Expedition with 10 lighthouses including Turkey Point and Fishing Battery Lights.

Trips depart from Knappâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Narrows Marina on Tilghman Island.

For information or to book call 800-690-5080 www.ChesapeakeLights.com

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to like?

Chatillon-su-Loire — The ruins of Chateau Gaillard date back to the 11th century. The medieval town retains a population of 3,000.

LeBoat offers a huge variety of stunning European destinations: 10 in France, 14 in England, 12 in Italy (including Venice), 15 in Germany, two in Scotland, nine in Ireland, five in Belgium, 10 in Holland, and six in Poland. The vacations you can choose from are flexible, and can last from three days to a week or longer. They are great for couples, families, or groups, because the boats’ sizes range from two to five cabins, with a variety of layouts, styles, and features that allow for customizing sleeping areas.

Our boat truly felt like a home away from home.

Chartering one from Le Boat is so easy that the unique vacation is practically effortless. See our additional photos at RecreationNews.com and book your trip by additional coverage at calling 800-734-5491 recreationnews.com or visiting leboat. com. Enjoy!

www.

Michelle Teel

Michelle Teel

Every few kilometers along the way, you’ll see small villages dating as far back as the 11th century.

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west virginia I reed hellman

Going big in Morgantown with special discount packages Conventional wisdom holds that big things can come in little packages. In Morgantown, W.Va., the packages are huge, and the adventures they contain are even bigger.

This summer, visitors to Greater Morgantown have a range of discount hotel packages and specials to choose from.

The Ramada Inn and Waterfront Place Hotel have special rates; Cheat River Outfitters and Adventure WV Canopy Tours offer discounts; and Triple S Harley-Davidson has free gifts just for

stopping by. These packages and more are available at moreadventuredeals.com.

Insider tip: The site also enables you to sign up to win a free Greater Morgantown weekend.

Morgantown’s calendar of special events offers numerous reasons to take advantage of the discount packages. From Good Neighbor Days to the WV Bass Federation Invitational Championship or the Boy Scouts’ Greatest Garage Sale on Earth, July and August are crowded with festivals, celebrations, fairs, and cookoffs.

One of the biggest, the MountainFest Motorcycle Rally, July 24-27, attracts motorcycle riders from across the nation.

It’s about the ride First held in 2005, MountainFest has worked hard to become a premier motorcycle rally, with lots of rides, thrill shows, ride-ins, and plenty of other activities. This year’s event features the 13th Annual Cycle Source Ride In and Custom Bike Show, a vendors’ mall, vintage car show, and custom builders showcase.

Musical entertainment includes Big and Rich, Ted Nugent, Jackyl, and Chris Janson. Past rallies have raised more than $500,000 to benefit a range of nonprofit organizations that provide necessary services to the community.

Morgantown will also host the world’s best on July 3 when the 2014 USA Softball Women’s National Team competes in an exhibition doubleheader. Two free concerts by Colt Ford on July 4, followed by fireworks, will celebrate the holiday.

The hometown of comedian Don Knotts, Morgantown still enjoys shows at the 1924 Metropolitan Theatre that hosted stars like Bob Hope and Bing Crosby in its vaudeville heyday. Today, the Metropolitan is home to musical productions by the West Virginia Public Theatre.

This Weekend Road Trip Could Be The Ride Of Your Life!

• Start on land with mountain biking, zip lines and adventure hiking over trails that wind through old growth forests.

• Continue your adventure in our crystal clear mountain streams and long, lazy rivers – ideal for canoeing, kayaking and river rafting.

WV Irish Road Bowling State Championship MountainFest Motorcycle Rally Big Bear Ultra Mountain Bike Race Backwoods Adventure Race

July 19-20 July 24-27 Aug. 2 Aug. 23

800.458.7373 | www.tourmorgantown.com 22 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

Morgantown Tourism

Tackle the only college-owned zip line in the country as part of a visit to Morgantown.

Outdoor fun

Morgantown Tourism

For outdoor enthusiasts, Morgantown has a wealth of easily accessible scenic trails for mountain biking and hiking.

Some trails lead to rock climbing areas, wildlife watching, or breathtaking views.

A rail-trail, open for non-motorized use, is ideal for walking, cycling, jogging, and rollerblading, with a smooth durable surface for wheelchairs and all types of bicycles.

Nearly 50 miles of trails in the Coopers Rock State Forest offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy everything from an easy leg-stretcher to a long, difficult day hike. A 1,200-foot scenic overlook and Rock City’s maze of 30-foot boulders draws hikers, sightseers, and climbers looking for a range of top rope routes. continued on page 26

The Cheat River offers challenging rapids that require teamwork.

•

We have history Unique Stores

Geocaching Fishing Easy access to I-81

90 minutes from DC and Baltimore Driving Tours

Walking Tours

U-Pick Farms

Largest Gun Range on the East Coast

Moto-Cross traCk BIKING

For a Visitor’s Guide

EvEnts

Photography Opportunities

Great LodGinG Arts & Theater

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Enjoy music, food and a day of fun!

Choose your own daylilies and have them dug for you.

1000’s available to purchase. $10 Admission; $5 Ages 6-12; Free for Ages 5 & under

304.229.6698

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FRIDAYS@FIVE

Summer Concert Series FRIDAYS ~ 5pm-7pm

On the Town Square in historic downtown Martinsburg (King and Queen Streets) Enjoy an evening of outdoor entertainment with a beer and wine garden, then stay downtown for dinner.

For concert schedule:

mainstreetmartinsburg.com

304.262.4200

• 126 East Race Street Martinsburg, WV 25401 • TravelWV.com recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 23

west virginia I susan kim

Adventures on the Gorge

Soar through the tops of the trees Canopy tour and more at Adventures on the Gorge

Zipping along through the thoughtfully designed course at Adventures on the Gorge.

Just a five-hour drive out of D.C., and you’re “tree deep” in the hemlock forest, flying away from your work week with a Canopy Tour offered at Adventures on the Gorge, a resort perched on the rim of West Virginia’s New River Gorge.

The tour — one of many activities at the resort — is a treetop adventure that combines zip lines, cable bridges, stationary tree platforms, and a bit of hiking and rappelling, all to give you an unspoiled view of the forest previously available only to birds and the most nimble squirrels.

“The people designing the course sometimes would sit and meditate and look at the trees,” explained the resort’s Dave Arnold. “Their love for the forest shows in the care with which they designed the tour: platforms, cables and bridges are built around — not through —

Adventures on the Gorge

The views are spectacular, with courses ranging from easy-as-child’s-play to absolutely daunting.

24 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

the trunks of the trees.”

Canopy touring originated in Costa Rica among scientists and bird watchers, explained Arnold. “Now it’s the fastest growing outdoor sport ever — faster than snowboarding,” he said.

Speaking of fast — once you’ve gotten a breeze in the trees with the Canopy Tour, it’s time to blow your contact lenses out of your eyes on the Gravity zip lines.

The longest — aptly named “AdrenaLine” — is a 60-mph, 3,050-foot, hair-onfire, speed rush about 200 feet above the ground.

With the longest zip line on the East Coast, Gravity can bring out the “extreme” in anyone.

Once it’s over, you instantly want the rush again. continued on page 26

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Adventures on the Gorge continued from page 24

Adventures on the Gorge

Safety is important no matter what level of course you choose at Adventures on the Gorge.

•Zip Line

•Tubing

•Rafting • Camping

•New Aerial Adventure Park • And More!

Also popular is TimberTrek, an obstacle course with five colorcoded degrees of difficulty. It features bridges, swings, and zip lines between platforms in the forest canopy.

A second-grader can try tackling the easiest (yellow) level.

If you’re an adult, you can try to be faster than the nimble second-grader, which is trickier than you might imagine on this course.

As for the most difficult (black) level, one visitor — a U.S. serviceman who was supplementing his training — said: “I never give up on anything but I had to stop halfway through. I’ll be back, though.”

Insider tip: Coming back is the best way to tackle the black level of TimberTrek, according to the course guides, who say the design has some tricks and twists that reveal themselves only to those willing to repeat the course multiple times.

If you just want to take a walk, there’s the Bridge Walk Tour on a 24-inch wide catwalk along the underbelly of the New River Gorge Bridge, 850 feet above the river.

Don’t worry, you’re harnessed in with a safety system that guarantees you won’t fall — except in love with the view.

Start With a Hammock Whether you’re staying for your honeymoon or for a long weekend, Adventures on the Gorge offers plenty of accommo-

1-800-836-9911 www.hfadventurecenter.com

www.recreationnews.com 410-638-6901 fax: 410-638-6902 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore MD 21221

dations to fit your budget.

You can sleep in one of two campgrounds, or in a very affordable 500-square-foot hotel room, small log cabin, deluxe cabin, or even a high-end rental home.

Arnold says, “As far as accommodations go, you can start with a hammock and go all the way up.”

One of the aspects of his job he loves is that people from all walks of life can gather and share a sense of adventure together.

“We’ve had everyone from [former Department of Homeland Security] Secretary [Janet] Napolitano to factory workers — and they are all just getting along and having a good time.”

The feeling of friendliness and closeness permeates Adventures on the Gorge, from the ownerpartners — some were friendly competitors before combining their entrepreneurial talents — to the staff and visitors.

The resort’s two main restaurants — Chetty’s and Smokey’s — are named for the first bus drivers the original owners ever hired. (Adventurers are often bused to activities that start in the river or up the mountainside.)

There’s is also serious whitewater rafting at Adventures on the Gorge — rafting that ranks seventh in the world among rafting excursions and second in the U.S. after the Grand Canyon.

But that’s another story, for the September issue of Recreation News.

www.

additional coverage at recreationnews.com

Learn more Adventures on the Gorge: adventuresonthegorge.com

Morgantown continued from page 26 Also at Coopers Rock, bands of rock cliffs line the Cheat River gorge and numerous overlooks offer panoramic views. The trails are especially lovely in early summer when the rhododendron and mountain laurel are in bloom.

Morgantown is also a center for whitewater rafting, with Cheat River Outfitters conducting guided adventures on the Cheat and other nearby rivers. Rafting the Cheat is a thrilling trip as it flows through the secluded Cheat Canyon and tumbles over giant boulders in the Cheat Narrows.

Taking advantage of lodging and activity packages makes Morgantown more attractive than ever this summer.

For more information Morgantown Tourism: tourmorgantown.com

26 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

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OLD FASHIONED JULY 4TH CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS July 4 | Noon–10pm Carroll County Farm Museum Westminster

COMMON GROUND ROOTS MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL July 12 & 13 | 10am–6pm Carroll County Farm Museum Westminster

800-272-1933 | www.CarrollCountyTourism.org

CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT & LIVING HISTORY July 19 & 20 | 9am–4pm Union Mills Homestead & Grist Mill, Union Mills

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Find real Americana in Talbot County celebrations Fireworks, farming traditions, and fairs highlight the July calendar in Talbot County, Md. Celebrations for Independence Day start at the Easton Carnival. The event runs June 28-July 4, with rides, carnie games, raffles, oyster fritters, and funnel cakes drawing fairgoers. The party culminates with a fireworks display on July 4.

In Oxford, the fireworks light up the sky over the waterfront a night earlier, on July 3. This is a popular display for boaters, who drop anchor along the shoreline.

The last fireworks for the weekend are on July 5 at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels. The light show comes after a free big band concert by the Shades of Blue Band on the museum grounds. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets.

Boasting some of the loveliest scenery on the Eastern Shore, Talbot County has long been popular with artists. Small wonder, then, that during its 10 years, Plein Air Easton has grown into the largest and most prestigious festival of its kind in the country.

“Plein air” refers to painting a scene from life, as it appears naturally before the artists and not in a studio or artificially composed. During Plein Air Easton, July 12-20, some 58 artists set up their easels wherever the scene and subject inspire them in Talbot County. The works will be exhibited and sold at the Academy Art Museum, where a jury of art experts will choose winners in several catego-

ries. The overall winner receives a $10,000 prize.

For any of the 6,000-8,000 spectators who are inspired after peeking over the shoulders of the participating artists, there’s the “Quick Draw” event.

After paying a $10 entry fee, participants have two hours to paint scenes in and around Easton. There are also ongoing outdoor exhibits throughout Easton and Talbot County and an expanded schedule of activities for children. (pleinaireeaston.com)

Steam power on display Giant steam-powered traction engines lumber around the Tuckahoe Steam Association’s grounds near Easton during the annual show, July 10-13.

The massive behemoths, weighing as much as 14 tons, were the super tractors and engines of their day, doing everything from powering sawmills to threshing to plowing.

The weekend is a celebration of farming and farm life from the Civil War through the early years of the 20th century. The steam engines are the stars. Clouds of smoke and the aroma of burning coal signal that boilers are building up steam until the engines are ready to work. There are planned demonstrations of working sawmills and tractor pulling. “Technogeeks” of the times used canvas straps attached to giant flywheels to measure horsepower of the engines, which will also be demonstrated. Photo ops abound during the

daily parade of tractors, and you can hear the blast halfway to the Bay Bridge when they all blow their whistles at lunchtime.

The less-dramatic equipment of the era is represented by antique gasoline tractors, cars, trucks, and farm equipment. Additionally, there is equipment that uses “original” horsepower — the kind with four hooves. The domestic skills of quilting, caning, weaving, and other crafts are also featured, with many of them for sale. (tuckahoesteam.org) You’ll find more modern farm life at the Talbot County Fair, July 9-12 at the county fairgrounds in Easton. It’s as real as it gets, with 4-H and Future Farmers of America kids showing the cows, sheep, pigs, and other livestock they’ve raised. Elsewhere, judges taste locally produced honey and baked goods, and pick winners in categories from sewing projects to crafts such as printmaking and sculpting with modeling clay.

Later in the month, the village of Cordova holds its annual fair on the weekend of July 31-Aug. 2.

It’s a very local version of the county fair, much smaller in size, but with most of the same exhibitions and contests.

Talbot County’s taste of Americana is just the ticket for July.

Learn more Talbot Co. Tourism: tourtalbot.com

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Enjoy the delicious taste of the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail The 14-passenger van rolls along two-lane back roads where cows blissfully graze on the hillsides.

The white steeples of churches and the pitched roofs of red barns are spotted in the distance. This is a day for the passengers to rest, relax, and let Dale and Burma Miles, owners of Antietam Tours/ Road Runner Services, lead their guests to the four wineries they’ll visit on the six-hour, custom-designed tour of the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail.

By way of introduction and review of the day’s itinerary, Burma Miles explains the stops along the tour route while her husband, who still lives in the country farmhouse where he was born, tells stories and anecdotes about the area that only a lifetime resident could relay.

“Knob Hall Winery, located in Clear Spring, Md., is a family-owned farm with a beautiful barn,” Burma Miles begins.

Indeed, Knob Hall, with its 30 acres of land devoted to grape production, is considered an estate winery. Co-owner Mary Beth Seibert is an award-winning wine maker. Inside the large barn, decorated for special events such as weddings and company gatherings, Knob Hall’s manager, Lois Stahl, proceeds with the tasting as she informs visitors of the variety of bottled wines for sale, including cabernet sauvignon, malbec, merlot, and pinot gris.

“We have two signature wines,” Stahl explains.

“Our ‘Jealous Mistress’ is a dry red and our ‘Gold Digger’ is a sweet white.”

Members of the tour group quickly learn to pace themselves for the other wineries to come.

“The Red Heifer Winery is located in the mountains of Smithsburg (where) owners Yvonne and Kevin Ford welcome visitors to their beautiful home and tasting room,” Burma Miles continues.

Situated on 100 acres of family-owned farmland, the three-acre vineyard produces sweet and dry wines, such as catawba grape and blueberry, as well as a Red Heifer white and vidal blanc dry.

“We just finished up a thousand bottles of our (French oak-aged cabernet Franc) and now we are back in full operation with a full stock of wine,” Yvonne Ford notes. “Ken and I have started this business from the ground up. It is such a work of passion.”

Wilson Village, in Clear Spring, is a special treat that follows the visits to the first two wineries.

This multi-purpose building, dating to 1847, was restored to its original charm in 1983 and includes a post office, a one-room schoolhouse, and an authentic general store.

“This store takes you back in time,” says coowner Patty Barnhart. “We are known for our Wisconsin sharp cheeses and our old-fashioned candy. The locals hang to talk and solve the prob-

lems of the world!” according to Barnhart.

Lunch includes a stop in Boonsboro at Dan’s Restaurant & Tap House, owned by author Nora Roberts’ son Dan Aufdem-Brinke. Robert’s bookstore, Turn the Page, is a worthwhile stop, too.

Full and satisfied after lunch, the tour group heads to its next stop, Orchid Cellar Winery in Middletown, located in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains. Here, owners Marzanna and Andrzej Wilk practice the fine art of mead production.

Mead is a rich concoction of honey and water fermented with yeast. If the thought of mead conjures visions of King Arthur drinking it with his Knights of the Round Table, consider that the production of this tasty beverage dates to 7000 B.C. Distillery Lane Ciderworks in Jefferson is the last stop on the tour.

“This is a great place to visit,” says Burma Miles.

“Hundreds of apple trees fill the orchard. Hard ciders and apple ciders are available for purchase (and) you can pick your own apples.”

What a refreshing way to end a six-hour tour that seemed to fly by.

For more information Antietam Tours: antietamtoursmd.com Washington County Tourism: marylandmemories.org

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SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL July 2-6, 11:00am-5:30pm. Learn about the music, dance, and culture of China and Kenya. The National Mall in Washington, D.C., between the Smithsonian museums. festival.si.edu AFRICAN-AMERICAN FESTIVAL July 5-6. Features world-class entertainment, seminars, children’s activities, arts, technology, education, financial literacy, health screenings, and wellness workshops. Featuring Patti LaBelle and Fantasia. 1101 Russell St., Baltimore, Md. 410-2448861, africanamericanfestival.net

July 2014 July 4 - Independence Day

HOLIDAYS

FOURTH OF JULY BALLOON RALLY July 3-5. Enjoy piloted hot-air balloon rides, tethered balloon rides, a nighttime balloon glow, an array of kids’ activities, several great food options, unique crafts for sale by vendors, live music, antique car shows, and fireworks. Virginia Military Institute Parade Grounds, 415 Letcher Ave., Lexington, Va. 540-463-1102 RIVER CONCERN SERIES July 4. A tribute to the big bands, including hits by Harry James, Bennie Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Tommy Dorsey.

The concert will finish with the nostalgic “Moonlight Serenade,” punctuated by a spectacular fireworks display. St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Leonardtown, Md. 301-848-5309, chesapeakeorchestra.org FIREWORKS AT FAIRGROUNDS PARK July 4, 6:00-10:00pm. Musical entertainment and a large fireworks display. 400 N. Mulberry St., Hagerstown, Md. 301-7398577, hagerstownmd.org INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE July 4, 11:30am-2:30pm. Parade consists of invited bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military and specialty units, giant balloons, equestrian and drill teams, VIPs, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants. Constitution Ave. and 7th St. NW, Washington, D.C. july4thparade.com INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION July 4, 11:00am-4:00pm. Enjoy music, dancing, historical entertainment, games, storytelling, and the reading of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, 1542 Bateman Bridge Rd., Forest, Va. 434-525-1806, dday.org OLD-FASHIONED JULY 4TH July 4, 3:00-5:00pm (celebration), 9:30pm (fireworks). Features fireworks, entertainment, children’s games, food, and crafts.

Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, ccgovernment.carr.org VALLEY 4TH July 4. All-day activities, parade, and fireworks. Harrisonburg, Va. visitharrisonburgva.com AN AMERICAN CELEBRATION July 4, 8:00am-5:00pm. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, as well as military reenactments. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, Va. 703-780-2000, mountvernon.org 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION July 4, 7:00-10:00pm. Enjoy music by reggae band Jah Works starting at 4:00pm, followed by the U.S. Naval Academy Band Electric Brigade performing Top 40 music at 7:00pm. Fireworks display at 9:30pm. Pratt and Light Sts., Baltimore, Md. 410-7528632, bpo.org STARS AND STRIPES EXPLOSION July 4. Great music, including the crowd’s patriotic and classical favorites performed by the Virginia Beach Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Beach Chorale, followed by an amazing fireworks display over the ocean. Boardwalk, Virginia Beach, Va. beachstreetusa.com/festivals/stars-stripes-explosion LIBERTY CELEBRATION July 4-6. Tactical drills, military exercises, and role-playing demonstrations salute the anniversary of America’s independence. At the Yorktown Victory Center, visitors can see a rare broadside printing of America’s Declaration of Independence dating to July 1776. 200 Water St., Yorktown, Va. 888-593-4682, historyisfun.org

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

VOLUNTEER FIREMEN’S CARNIVAL Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 2. Rides, food, and fun — carnival leads up to the world famous Pony Swim and Auction.

Chincoteague, Va. chincoteaguechamber.com

BRYCEFEST July 5, 10:00am-7:00pm. Featuring food, fun, and fireworks, plus vendors and the Robbie Limon Band. Bryce Resort, 1982 Fairway Dr., Basye, Va. 800-821-1444, bryceresort.com SUMMER WINE TASTING TOUR July 6, 10:00am-2:00pm. Enjoy a tasty brunch or lunch, and sample some of the fine wines being produced in Cape May County.

Cape May, N.J. 800-275-4278, capemaymac.org CENTRAL PA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS July 10-13. Each year, 100,000 people enjoy the visual and performing arts, authors, music, and a huge sidewalk art sale. State College, Pa. arts-festival.com CAPITAL FRINGE FESTIVAL July 10-27. Eighteen days of creative and uninhibited performances at 15 established and newly created venues throughout Washington, D.C. See website for full festival schedule. capitalfringe.org AT&T SUMMER BREWFEST July 11, 5:00-9:00pm. Sample a wide variety of summer beers from a selection of local, regional, national, and international breweries. Town Point Park, Waterside Dr., Norfolk, Va. 757-4412345, festevents.org ANNAPOLIS IRISH FESTIVAL July 11, 4:00-10:00pm. Three stages with live music day and night, including traditional Irish music and Celtic rock. “Little Leprechaun Land” features activities, pony rides, and entertainment. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1450 Generals Hwy., Crownsville, Md. annapolisirishfestival.com NANTICOKE RIVERFEST July 11-12. “Rollin’ on the Nanticoke” is the theme for this celebration, with food and craft vendors, a float-in, car show, and entertainment. Downtown Seaford, Del. nanticokeriverfest.com OPEN COCKPIT DAY July 12, 11:00am-3:00pm. The event will include guest Vincent dePaul Gisriel Jr., author of the World War II true story Hearts Away, Bombs Away. Martin State Airport, Middle River, Md. 410682-6122, mdairmuseum.org HORSE AND HOUND WINE FESTIVAL July 12, 11:00am-6:00pm. Enjoy wine from some of Virginia’s finest wineries while listening to good music and visiting art, craft, and food vendors. Numerous events throughout the day, such as the Parade of Horses, will feature horses and dogs as the primary attractions. Peaks of Otter Winery, 2122 Sheep Creek Rd., Bedford, Va. 540-586-3707, bedfordwine.com CHALK THE WALK ARTSPLOSION July 12. Hundreds of artists and “wanna-be” artists gather to turn the boardwalk into an impromptu canvas of color.

17th St. and Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, Va. 757-425-3111, beachstreetusa.com SUMMER CRAFT FAIR July 12, 9:00am-4:00pm. See the work of the fine artisans of Delaware and the Eastern Shore, listen to festive live music, and enjoy a nice lunch. Lewes Historic Complex, 110 Shipcarpenter St., Lewes, Del. 302-645-7670, historiclewes.org AMERICAN BEER CLASSIC July 12, 6:00-10:00pm. Enjoy sampling hundreds of beers while local bands provide the soundtrack for your experience. Feel free to stop, relax, and listen, or dance your way from one brewery tent to the next. RFK Stadium, 2400 E. Capitol St., SE, Washington, D.C. americanbeerclassic.com PLEIN AIR ARTS FESTIVAL July 12-20. The East Coast’s premier plein-air festival features top artists, collector’s events, art galleries, and workshops. 40 E. Dover St., Easton, Md. 410-822-7297, pleinaireaston.com CAPITAL ALE HOUSE BEER EXPO July 15-20, 10:00am-10:00pm. Fifteen to 20 breweries from across the country will gather in Richmond to showcase 200 of today’s best craft beers. Greater Richmond Convention Center and nearby venues, 403 N. Third St., Richmond, Va. 804-3496909, nationalbeerexpo.com KESTAFEST July 18, 7:30pm. This Latin music festival will include performances by Jorge Celedon, Grupo Niche, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, and Orquesta Guayacan. Patriot Center, 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, Va. 703-993-3000, monumentalnetwork.com/events

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ARTSCAPE July 18-20. Artscape features 150 fine artists, fashion designers, and craftspeople as well as visual art exhibits and live music in America’s largest free art event. Charles St. and Mt. Royal Ave., Baltimore, Md. 410-752-8632, artscape.org FAMILY DAY 40S FESTIVAL July 19, 10:00am-5:00pm. Discover the lessons and legacy of World War II through interactive programs, tours, and projects.

National D-Day Memorial, Three Overlord Cir., Bedford, Va. 540586-3329, dday.org REGGAE WINE FESTIVAL July 19-20. Island sounds provided by Kurlou Reggage Allstars and The Image Band on Saturday; Unity Band, Monsoon, and S.T.O.R.M on Sunday. Linganore Winecellars, 13601 Glissans Mill Rd., Mt. Airy, Md. linganorewines.com POLISH FESTIVAL July 19-20, 11:00am. Features entertainment throughout the day, authentic Polish food and drinks, storytelling, children’s area, a trivia contest, and Polish arts and crafts. 200 York Rd., Timonium, Md. 410-780-9054, pcamaryland.org ORANGE COUNTY FAIR July 24-26. Old Gordonsville Road Fairgrounds, Orange, Va. 540661-5393, orangecountyvafair.com BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL July 25-27. Features arts and crafts, food, and music. Chincoteague Center, 6155 Community Dr., Chincoteague Island, Va. 757-894-2334 NATURE AND ARTS FESTIVAL July 26, 9:00am-4:00pm. Seventy-plus programs on owls, native plants, honeybees, and butterflies, as well as many more nature and environmental topics. There are many activities and programs aimed especially at children. 176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg, Pa. 717-692-3699, nedsmithcenter.org BEACH MUSIC AND CLASSIC CAR SHOW July 26-27. Fun-filled festivities, including a classic car show, live music, and tasty treats. Glen Maury Park, 101 Maury River Dr., Buena Vista, Va. 540-460-1576, glenmaurypark.com CARROLL COUNTY 4-H FAIR July 26-Aug. 1. Country fair featuring exhibitors, entertainment, animal shows, and food. 700 Agriculture Way, Westminster, Md. 410-848-3247, carrollcountyfair.com GARRETT COUNTY FAIR July 26-Aug. 2. Livestock shows, the midway, rides, food, and games. 270 Mosser Rd., McHenry, Md. 301-387-5400, garrettcountyfair.org KAYPI PERU FESTIVAL July 28-Aug. 3. Festival highlights include the exhibition and sale of handmade crafts from indigenous artisans from Peru.

There will also be traditional dances and live music, photo exhibitions, films, lectures, Peruvian food and drinks, and hands-on activities. National Museum of the American Indian, 4th St. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. nmai.si.edu RAIN DAY July 29. It almost always seems to rain in Greene County, Pa., on July 29, so there’s a street festival, entertainment, and family fun. The celebration also remembers that nearly half of the 250 Greene County men who were in a WWI battalion from Waynesburg, Pa., were lost in France on July 29, 1918. gogreenecounty.org

NOW SHOWING PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW July 2-31. This judged show of photography is open to everyone from the amateur to the professional. Free and open to the public. 405 Main St., Chester, Md. 410-643-7424, kifa.us CHESAPEAKE CLASSIC CAR SHOW July 12, 11:00am-3:00pm. More than 60 antique cars. Bring your classic car (pre-1985) for free admission to the third largest fire museum in world. See an exhibit of 40 antique fire engines, dating back to 1806. 1301 York Rd., Lutherville, Md. 410-887-4289 SOUTHEASTERN GUNS AND KNIVES SHOW July 12-13. Features an assortment of firearms and related products for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Dr., Hampton, Va. 757-315-1610, guns-knives.com BRIDAL OPEN HOUSE July 20, 1:00-4:00pm. Features raffles, bridal giveaways, and exclusive day-only deals. Old South Country Club, 699 Marlboro Rd., Lothian, Md. 410-741-6045, oldsouthcountryclub.org MEADOWOOD PARK SHOW July 27, 10:00am-3:00pm. Show is open to all makes of vehicles; dash plaques provided for the first 100 automobiles and motorcycles to be registered. Informal judging, including sponsor and a youth choice awards. 10650 Falls Rd., Lutherville, Md. 410-4996196, bcaboom.org

5K RUN July 19. Reserve Ave., Roanoke, Va. 540-819-8300, commonwealthgames.org/subway-games/sports-listing/5K BALTIMORE ANNAPOLIS SAILING CLUB Year-round. Offers day sailing events and seminars in Baltimore and Annapolis, Md., and Washington, D.C., and sailing excursions on the Chesapeake Bay. Membership free. 410-394-9483, mdsailing.com QUANTICO ORIENTEERING CLUB Hosts map and compass activities most weekends in the greater Washington, D.C., area. Suitable for all ages and skill levels; free beginner instruction. qocweb.org POTOMAC APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB Leads weekly hikes and work trips in greater Washington, D.C., area. Contact PATC for more information. 703-242-0965, patc.net APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB Leads hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and conservation events in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. amc-dc.org SENIORS EXERCISE FOR A BETTER LIFE Exercise for free Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30-11:15am. Cora B. Wood Senior Center, 3601 Taylor St., Brentwood, Md. 301699-1238, pgparks.com FITNESS CENTER SENIOR CLASSES Prince George’s County Sports and Learning Complex, Landover, Md. 301-583-2626, pgparks.com

THE ROBBEN ISLAND SHAKESPEARE Through Sept. 29. A copy of the complete works of Shakespeare signed by ANC prisoners at South Africa’s notorious Robben Island prison. Signatures include Nelson Mandela’s. Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C. folger.edu

Theater THE BFG Through Aug. 10. Integrates puppetry, rich visuals, and imaginative storytelling as Sophie and the Big Friendly Giant go on a magical journey to save the children of England. Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, Md. imaginationstage.org COMEDIAN ERIN JACKSON July 5-6. DC Improv Comedy Club and Restaurant, 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-296-7008, dcimprov.com CIRQUE DU SOLIEL: AMALUNA July 31-Aug. 24. Amaluna invites the audience to a mysterious island governed by goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. 201 Harbor View Ave., National Harbor, Md. 877-NTLHBR, cirquedusoleil.com

Films BETHESDA OUTDOOR MOVIES July 22-26, 9:00pm. Norfolk and Auburn Aves., Bethesda, Md. 301-215-6660, bethesda.org VOICES OF INDIANTOWN FILM SCREENING July 26, 4:00pm. A 25-minute documentary that tells the stories of the children of sharecroppers who lived in the Indiantown area of Dorchester County, Md., during the early- to mid-20th century. 300 Oella Ave., Oella, Md. 410-887-1081, mdhc.org

Dance

WASHINGTON AREA ROADSKATERS Year-round; check website for dates and times. Skaters leave from White House, Washington, D.C. meetup.com/washington-area-roadskaters

DANCE PROGRAMS Weekends, 7:30-11:30pm. Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md. fridaynightdance.org

CENTER HIKING CLUB Various hikes and locations in D.C. metropolitan area. 703-7513971, centerhikingclub.org

THE WASHINGTON BALLET Call for performances and times. 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-362-3606, washingtonballet.org

FREESTATE HAPPY WANDERERS Various walking trails and locations in Maryland. 410-437-2164, ava.org/clubs/freestate WANDERBIRDS HIKING CLUB Sundays. Various hikes and locations in Virginia. 703-242-0315, wanderbirds.org SWIMMING AND WATER EXERCISE PROGRAMS Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00-8:00am. Glenarden/Theresa Banks Complex Pool, 8615-A McLain Ave., Glenarden, Md. 301772-5515

MUSIC Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral FREE MILITARY BAND CONCERT SERIES July 22, 6:00pm. The 229th provides musical selections that range from rock and pop to jazz and patriotic. 5714 Bellona Ave., Baltimore, Md. 443-280-3758, calendar.prattlibrary.org RIVER CONCERT SEASON FINALE July 25. Story telling is the theme of the season finale with a performance of Rimsky Korsakov’s Scheherazade. The evening features an appearance by vocalist Maureen McGovern. St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Leonardtown, Md. 301-848-5309, chesapeakeorchestra.org

Bluegrass/Jazz OUT AMONG THE STARS BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL July 4-7. Four days of music with camping, food, and crafts.

Music on two stages. Benton Rodeo Grounds, Mendenhall Lane, Benton, Pa. oatsfestival.com MARYLAND SUMMER JAZZ July 22, 25, and 26. Public concerts connected with the annual summer jazz camp for adult jazz musicians. Rockville, Md., marylandsummerjazz.com

Popular/Other SHENANDOAH VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL July 18-Aug. 31. The annual festival presents nine concerts including Roseanne Cash, “A Civil War Portrait” by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, and others. Orkney Springs, Va. musicfest.org SIZZLIN’ SUMMER NIGHTS July 9-26. With a different concert act each night, there’s always something to keep you entertained. Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, Va. 703-820-9771, signature-theatre.org

Exhibits Featured Exhibitions BEAUTY IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN CULTURE Through July 27. The exhibition explores contemporary understandings of beauty by framing the notion of aesthetics, race, class, and gender within art, popular culture, and political contexts. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum

A REVOLUTIONARY SPIRIT Through October. More than 30 vivid paintings, drawings, prints, watercolors, and sculpture present an overview of the revolutionary art movement that flourished in Germany. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr., Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org VIDEO ART EXHIBITION Through Oct. 12. The first museum exhibition to focus on women’s impact on the field of video art. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. nmwa.org RYAN MCGINNESS: STUDIO VISIT Through Oct. 19. The exhibit will explore this contemporary artist’s creative process for his 2009 painting “Art History Is Not Linear.” The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum BASEBALL AND BECOMING AN AMERICAN Through Oct. 26. Features more than 130 original objects, including game-worn uniforms, game-used objects, correspondence, newspaper accounts, board games, awards, baseball cards, signed baseballs, Jewish ritual objects, and ballpark giveaways. National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 South Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, Pa. 215-923-3811, nmajh.org FRONT ROOM: SETH ADELSBERGER Through Nov. 2. A variety of luminescent and textured paintings from Baltimore-based artist Seth Adelsberger demonstrates the artist’s innovative approaches to painting over the past five years. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr., Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org FIREWORKS July 2-27. July is the month for fireworks, and Foundry members interpret the theme in terms literal, mystical, emotional, and abstract. Foundry Gallery, 1314 18th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202 463-0203, foundrygallery.org FREE COMMUNITY DAY July 6. Free admission to the museum. Take this opportunity to explore the current exhibitions, as well as the permanent collection. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-783-5000, nmwa.org Shenandoah Valley Music Festival

RALPH FASANELLA Through Aug. 3. Brings together 19 of the artist’s most significant paintings and eight sketches on the 100th anniversary of his birth. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and F Sts. NW, Washington, D.C. americanart.si.edu ARCHITECTURAL BOOKS Through Aug. 17. Some books survey a variety of architectural works, while others focus on a specific building. National Gallery of Art, National Mall between Third and Seventh Sts. at Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C .202-737-4215, nga.gov DINOS LIVE! Through Sept. 1. Life-like animatronic dinosaur exhibit and outdoor Fossil Find take visitors back 68 million years. Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, Va. thevlm.org

The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival presents nine concerts, July 18-Aug. 31 at Orkney Springs.

FRAGILE WATERS Through Sept. 2. Black and white photographs by three famous environmental photographers, including Ansel Adams, who feel an obvious reverence for nature and the marine environment in particular. Mariners’ Museum, 100 Museum Dr., Newport News, Va. marinersmuseum.org

89th Annual Chincoteague, Virginia

Volunteer Firemen’s

CARNIVAL June 27, 28; July 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 28 Raffle for boat, pony penning pkg, & NYC trip

(closed Sundays - Fireworks: 10pm, July 4

Pony Roundup & Swim Wednesday, July 30, ponies swim on slack tide between 7am-1pm (approx.)

Updated time of Pony Swim to be announced at the Carnival Grounds; Tuesday evening, July 29 Thursday, July 31 (8am-noon) Auction of Ponies

Information: (757) 336-6161

2015 Pony Swim: July 29, 2015 - Pony Auction: July 30, 2015

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GETTYSBURG BATTLE REENACTMENT July 4-6. Three exciting battle reenactments with allday family events and living history. Gettysburg, Pa. gettysburgreenactment.com

REVOLUTIONARY LONDON TOWN July 13, noon-4:00pm. Costumed re-enactors bring the 18thcentury seaport of London Town to life. The daylong event includes free costume rental for kids, colonial games, and hearth cooking. Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Rd., Edgewater, Md. 410-222-1919, historiclondontown.org

SECOND SUNDAY SPOTLIGHT TALKS Second Sunday of every month, 2:00pm. Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org

LIBERTY CELEBRATION July 4-6. Military and tactical drills and role-playing demonstrations salute the anniversary of America’s independence. Visitors can see a rare broadside printing of the Declaration of Independence dating to July 1776. Yorktown Victory Center, Yorktown, Va. 888-593-4682, historyisfun.org

HISTORICON July 17-20. Vendors offering everything you need to recreate military battles from across history or alternate battles drawn from your own imagination. Fredericksburg Expo Center, 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy., Fredericksburg, Va. 540-548-5555, historicon.org

TOURS

THE BATTLE OF MONOCACY July 5-14. Commemoration of the Battle of Monocacy, July 9, 1864. 4801 Urbana Pk., Frederick, Md. 301-662-3515, nps.gov/mono

CIVIL WAR BALL July 18, 6:30-9:30pm. Step back in time to the Victorian era, with Civil War dance and an art auction throughout the evening. Chambersburg, Pa. 866-646-8060, explorefranklincountypa.com

History

SHARPSBURG’S 250TH COMMEMORATION July 7, 11:00am-6:00pm. Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of Sharpsburg. Sharpsburg Square, Sharpsburg, Md. sharpsburghistoricalsociety.org CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT July 12-13. Living history encampments, demonstrations, artillery, sutlers, children’s hands-on activities, and manor tours.

Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 North Market St., Frederick, Md. 301600-1650, rosehillmuseum.com Sunspots Studios

BURNING OF CHAMBERSBURG July 19. A dramatic light and smoke reenactment of the Civil War ransom and burning of Chambersburg, Pa. All-day activities, with dramatic reenactment, 6:00-10:00pm. Chambersburg, Pa. explorefranklincountypa.com OLD MARYLAND FARM ACTIVITIES Old Maryland Farm, 301 Watkins Park Dr., Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-218-6770 or 301-699-2544, pgparks.com MONTPELIER MANSION TOURS Sundays, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Montpelier Mansion, Rt. 197 and Muirkirk Rd., Laurel, Md. 301-953-1376

Lectures/Workshops/Classes LANDSCAPE DRAWING FOR ADULTS July 5-26. Learn to draw or add to your skills. Work with charcoal and various other materials, which will be provided. Robert E. Lee Park, 1000 Lakeside Dr., Baltimore, Md. 410-887-4156 FREE AVIATION LECTURE SERIES July 7, 7:00pm. Award-winning film producer Heather Taylor shows clips and talks about her documentary Breaking Through The Clouds: The First Women’s National Air Derby. Lockheed Martin Auditorium, 2323 Eastern Blvd., Middle River, Md. 410-6826122, mdairmuseum.org STAINED-GLASS CLASS Ongoing. Mat About You Gallery, 3774 Old Columbia Pk., Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-8860, mataboutyou.com

Young visitors are fascinated during the daily glassblowing demonstrations at Sunspots Studios in Staunton, Va.

PRO SPORTS

ADULT ART COURSES Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr., Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org GALLERY TALKS Thursdays, 1:00pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00pm. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr., Baltimore, Md. 443-5731700, artbma.org Virginia Living Museum

Tue., July 1 vs. Texas, 7:05pm Wed., July 2 vs. Texas, 7:05pm Thu., July 3 vs. Texas, 7:05pm Wed., July 9 vs. Washington, 7:05pm Thu., July 10 vs. Washington, 7:05pm Fri., July 11 vs. Yankees, 7:05pm Sat., July 12 vs. Yankees, 4:05pm Sun., July 13 vs. Yankees, 8:05pm Tue., July 29 vs. Angels, 7:05pm Wed., July 30 vs. Angels, 7:05pm Thu., July 31 vs. Angels, 7:05pm

WASHINGTON NATIONALS AT HOME Tue., July 1 vs. Rockies, 7:05pm Wed., July 2 vs. Rockies, 6:05pm Fri., July 4 vs. Cubs, 11:05am Sat., July 5 vs. Cubs, 4:05pm Sun., July 6 vs. San Diego, 1:35pm Mon., July 7 vs. Orioles, 7:05pm Tue., July 8 vs. Orioles, 7:05pm Fri., July 18 vs. Brewers, 7:05pm Sat., July 19 vs. Brewers, 7:05pm Sun., July 20 vs. Brewers, 1:35pm Thu., July 31 vs. Phillies, 7:05pm

The Nationals play home games at Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St., SE, Washington, DC 20003. Call 202-397-SEAT (7328) or visit washington. nationals.mlb.com.

DC UNITED AT HOME

Sun., July 20 vs. Chivas USA, 8:00pm Sat., July 26 vs. Fulham FC, TBD Wed., July 30 vs. Toronto FC, 7:00pm DC United plays home games at RFK Stadium, 2400 East Capitol St., SE, Washington, DC 20003. Call 202-587-5000 or visit dcunited.com.

CAPE MAY, NJ Historic district, moonlight trolley, and Cape May sampler tours.

Cape May, N.J. 800-275-4278, capemaymac.org MARITIME HISTORY WALKING TOURS Second and fourth Saturdays, 10:00am. Fells Point Visitor Center, Baltimore, Md. 410-675-6750, preservationsociety.com DISCOVER THE SUITLAND BOG Aug. 2 and Sept. 13, 10:00am-2:00pm. This bog is now a unique wetland within the Washington metropolitan area. Suitland, Md. 301-627-7755, pgparks.com WALKING THROUGH TIME Aug. 9 and 23 and Sept. 13. Learn about the life and personalities of the City of Fairfax in this 90-minute guided walking tour through the Old Town Fairfax National Register Historic District. Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, Fairfax, Va. 703-3858414, historicfairfax.org

O THER SUMMER FAMILY CAMPOUT July 18, 5:00pm-July 19, 10:00am. Includes a night hike and campfire. Families should bring camping gear, but some tents are available; call to reserve. Willow Grove Family Camping Area, Cromwell Valley Park, Baltimore, Md. 410-887-2503 HOWARD COUNTY RESTAURANT WEEK July 21-Aug. 4. Farm-to-table weeks with restaurants featuring local meats, seafood, produce, and wine. 6741 Columbia Gateway Dr., Columbia, Md. 410-313-1900, visithowardcounty.com PONY SWIM AND AUCTION July 30-31. Sponsored by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. Chincoteague, Va. 757-336-6161, chincoteaguechamber.com LIVE GLASSBLOWING See live glassblowing daily at Sunspots Studios, where artists transform hot glass into beautiful objects. Blow your own ornament on Saturdays and Sundays until 4:00pm. 202 S. Lewis St., Staunton, Va. sunspots.com SUMMIT POINT RACING Park features three road-racing circuits used for amateur automobile, kart, and motorcycle racing, high-performance driver education, and emergency training for local and federal law enforcement. Summit Point Motorsports Park, Summit Point, W.Va. 304-725-8444, summitpoint-raceway.com

To Submit an Event for the Recreation News Calendar:

BALTIMORE ORIOLES AT HOME

The Orioles play home games at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, 333 West Camden St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Call 888-848-BIRD or visit baltimore. orioles.mlb.com.

TRADITIONAL ART CLASSES Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org

Check out the Euoplocephalus in the DINOS LIVE! Exhibit at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News.

All announcements must reach us no later than the 1st of the month previous to publication. As an example, we must receive July events no later than June 1. Every announcement must have the name of the event, name of the organization, date, time, and location of the event, a contact phone number, and a website if possible. We cannot use any long descriptions, photographs, or additional materials. If you submit by email, please put the information in the message itself; we appreciate not having to open any file attachments. Send announcements to: Calendar, Recreation News, 204 Greenwood Road, Linthicum, MD, 21090, or email to editor@recreationnews.com.

d DINOSAURS ROAR THIS SUMMER

It’s a dinosaur summer at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News, where realistic dinosaurs roar inside while outside amateur paleontologists can uncover, identify, and take home real fossils.

Open through Sept. 1, DINOS LIVE! takes visitors back more than 65 million years to the Cretaceous Period when Tyrannosaurus rex ruled North America.

Tremble at a growling T-rex. Watch an Edmontosaurus mother tend her brood. See Euoplocephalus, built like a military tank, and Styracosaurus, one of the most spectacular of the horned reptiles.

In the outdoor tented fossil excavation area, amateur paleontologists can search through a mound of fossil-filled sediment and then identify and take home real fossils. And, they can help uncover real fossil bones of ancient whales.

Future animal keepers and veterinarians can play, learn, and dream in the new permanent exhibit, “Wild & Well,” that opened in June. Designed primarily for pre-K to third-graders, the new exhibit offers hands-on exploration and learning about animal health with a secondary message about human health, all while playing the roles of keepers or vets.

For more information, visit thevlm.org or call 757-595-1900.

32 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

recgov.com I advertorial RecGov.org member companies: To have your event or company featured on this page, contact publisher@recreationnews.com or Karl Teel at 410-638-6901.

Bozzuto Management opens Fenwick Apartments in Silver Spring, Md. Bozzuto Management Company, a subsidiary of The Bozzuto Group, a Greenbelt, Md.-based real estate services company, will begin pre-leasing the brand new six-story Fenwick apartment community in late spring.

The apartments should be ready for move-in during July.

Fenwick offers studios, and one- and two-bedroom homes located in the heart of Silver Spring, just a few blocks from restaurants, shopping, theaters, museums, sport venues, and parks. Residents can walk to the Silver Spring transit station or take advantage of the on-site bike storage and repair shop or the Capital Bikeshare station.

Notable amenities and features Each apartment features a keyless entry system with solid wood doors; 9- and 10-foot ceilings; Kaindl wood plank flooring; 42-inch midnight teak flat panel kitchen cabinets; full-sized front-loading Energy Star washer and dryer; stainless steel Whirlpool appliances; and greencertified plush carpet in bedrooms. Plus, bathroom features include a quartz-top gray pine bathroom vanity, contemporary bath fixtures and tiles, and frameless glass showers or rounded curtain rod at bathtub. Select units will feature a moveable kitchen island, frosted glass doors, sliding glass doors, frameless glass showers, a built-in desk, and built-in open shelves.

Community amenities include a curated record collection with listening area; furnished guest suite; clubroom with bar, dining, and casual seating; billiards, foosball, and TV gaming area with bar; private library with iMac and PC computers; and state-of-the-art fitness center with a yoga stretching area. The pet-friendly community will also feature a resort-style pool with cabanas, outdoor living area with fire pit, outdoor kitchen with grills and communal dining, and rooftop terrace

with green wall. Local artists and artisans have created a variety of works that will be showcased in many of these spaces.

“We are excited to present the myriad colors, textures, and personalities of Fenwick to Silver Spring,” said Julie Smith, president of The Bozzuto Management Company. “Fenwick is about creating a home where the relationships, communities, and adventures that matter most will comfortably take root and grow.”

The project was developed by Arlington-based Insight Property Group LLC. Bozzuto Management Company handles more than 160 communities throughout the East Coast and was voted Property Management Company of the Year in 2011 by Multi-Housing News, and in 2000 and 2009 by the National Association of Home Builders.

For more information, call 301-289-7562 or visit fenwickapts.com.

Leisure and travel fair scheduled for July 9 The U.S. Department of the Interior Recreation Association is hosting a Leisure and Travel Fair on July 9, 10:00am-2:00pm.

The event takes place in the department’s Bison Bistro Cafeteria at 1849 C St. N.W., in downtown Washington.

Department of Interior employees will be able to meet representatives of hotels, resorts, and other leisure-related companies during the event.

Travel industry representatives will have tables with literature and will be available to talk about their accommodations, attractions, and services.

THE RECREATION NEWS MEDIA GROUP www.RecreationNews.com Recreation News • Weekend Update E-mail The Travel Radio Show and Podcast Visit us on Facebook!

E-mail: Publisher@RecreationNews.com 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 Phone: 410-638-6901 • Fax: 410-638-6902 © 2014, Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Recreation News (ISSN 1056-9294) is the official publication of GovEmployee.com and RecGov.org, and is published monthly by the Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Subscriptions by mail are $15 per year (12 issues). Corporate and bulk employee subscriptions are free. Contact the publisher at the address or telephone number listed above. Items in Recreation News may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written consent.

Publisher - Karl Teel Editor - Marvin Bond Calendar Editor - Jessica Bosse Account Executive - Lynn Talbert Copy Editor - Andrea Ebeling Cover Design - Debbie Palmer Web Support - Ron Yarnick Layout & Art - Beth Wood Accounting - Bev Peterson Accounting - Leanne Weaver

Chief Financial Off. - Barb Sullinger Production - Eric Smith Printing - Joe Naman Shipping - Sam Parisee Mailing - Gerrard Wilson Marketing - Debbie Palmer Data Mgt. - Carolyn Grover Social Media - Karen Falk Intern - Emily Cox

“This is a great opportunity for DOI employees to get the latest scoop on popular travel destinations and discover some new travel opportunities,” said RecGov.org’s Ruth Stragner.

For more information about the event, contact NaDine Wright at interiorrec@yahoo.com or 202-208-7382.

gov

employee

com

discounts•destinations•deals

RecGov.org 3012 Gold Mine Road, Brookeville, MD 20833 Phone: 301-221-3977 Email RSragner@RecGov.org 2014 RECGOV President: Ruth Sragner Advisory Panel: Renee Bolden, Clement Jackson, Karl Teel, Jessica Smith and Ted Tepper Publisher - Recreation News: Karl Teel

GovEmployee.com We are a co-op of more than 40 recreation associations and MWRs working together to better serve our members

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 33

virginia I sue bland

Virginia’s big lake country yields more than just big bass Ahhh ... the sporting life. You’ll find endless options for summer fun in Virginia’s big lake country, the central-southern region where rivers, lakes, and reservoirs converge near the North Carolina border.

Here, you can reel in record-sized largemouth bass and blue catfish, water ski on massive lakes, paddle

on swift rivers, and even scuba dive into a granite quarry that claims the cleanest water anywhere between Maine and Georgia. Whether you’re at a beautifully maintained state park, an award-winning lake hotel, or a cozy cabin at an outdoor adventure spot, you’re bound to relax and make memories when you head to Brunswick Co. Tourism

Enjoying a Lake Gaston sunset aboard a personal watercraft.

the region called Virginia’s Retreat.

The big inland water includes Lake Gaston, which spans the Virginia-North Carolina border. On the Virginia side, you’ll find it in Brunswick County, birthplace of Brunswick stew. Head down to Gasburg and sign up for “stay and play packages” at The Club Resort at Lake Gaston.

Together with a great public golf course, the resort offers summer rates from $170 to $199 for two nights’ lodging for two and two rounds of golf per person with cart.

Recreation here includes indoor and outdoor pools, an arcade with indoor mini golf, a 10-lane bowling alley, racquetball court, exercise room/ gym, tennis courts, and a 300-foot private beach for swimming.

Another of the region’s prime areas for water recreation is John H. Kerr Reservoir, also known as Buggs Island Lake (for the Buggs family, which once owned the property). The Army Corps of Engineers maintains two great campgrounds

and parks, interpretive centers, and swimming spots with free life jackets.

No boat? No worries. At Occoneechee State Park, Clarksville Marine Rentals offers rental boats for a full day or a week. Clarksville Marina also rents boats and some locals sell lake maps.

The town’s chamber cites 30 public boat launch facilities on the lake, with four close to Clarksville. Two recreation areas near Clarksville have public beaches — Longwood and Rudd’s Creek.

One of Clarksville’s biggest events is the Virginia Lake Festival, held July 17-19. It features live music, hot air balloons, an antique car show, a “Gathering of the Boats,” a 5K run, sand sculpting, arts and crafts, and 20 food vendors, along with helicopter rides and fireworks over Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir.

More than 100,000 people attend the event, so be sure to book ahead at one of the local motels, hotels, cabins, or campgrounds.

Brunswick Co. Tourism

Explore the nation’s beginnings at Jamestown where America’s first permanent English colony site is preserved at Historic Jamestowne, and Jamestown Settlement living-history museum provides a glimpse of 1607 life.

Fun on the water is what Virginia’s Big Lake Country is all about.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of this meticulously restored 18th-century colonial capital city, Colonial Williamsburg, where patriots ignited the cause for freedom and laid the groundwork for creation of this great nation.

AIR SHOW & BIPLANE RIDES

At Yorktown, discover the lives of people who witnessed the Revolution at Yorktown Victory Center living-history museum, and walk the ground where America’s independence was won in 1781 at Yorktown Battlefield.

Every Sunday May through October 45th Annual

Flying CirCus Air show 4 FAMILY FUN 4 GREAT AIRSHOW 4 THRILLING AIRPLANE RIDES GATES OPEN / RIDES BEGIN 11am SHOW STARTS 2:30pm

540-439-8661 5114 Ritchie Rd., Bealeton, VA Adults $15 • Children $7 The Flying Circus is a 45 minute drive from the Capital Beltway.

It is located 14 miles south of Warrenton and 22 miles north of Fredericksburg off Rt. 17 on Rt. 644 near Bealeton.

Watch for the Flying Circus signs.

34 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

CHECK OUT OUR BALLOON FESTIVAL AUGUST 16-17

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More than lakes Bobby Conner, who promotes the region, says it has everything from water sports to golf, birding trails, and rails-to-trails paths that link small towns, farmland, and woodlands. And, that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even include the early American and Civil War history. The Tobacco Heritage Trail, a rails-to-trails initiative, will cover almost 150 miles of former Norfolk-Southern Railroad beds linking Brunswick, Mecklenburg, and Halifax counties. Brunswick County opened a 17-mile segment of the Tobacco Heritage Trail in April at the Evans Creek Trailhead, just west of the Meherrin River. Lawrenceville, LaCrosse, and South Hill are now connected by this recreational hiking, cycling, and equestrian trail.

Brunswick County is also home to Lake Rawlings Scuba and Camping Park, where diving instructors teach everything from the basics of underwater survival to disabled diver training and wreck exploration. Lake Rawlings offers crystal-clear water in a granite quarry created 50 years ago to provide foundation rock for the man-made islands of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Sunken in the quarry for underwater fun are a Black Hawk helicopter, a school bus, a convertible, and a sailboat shell used in the underwater scene of the Warner Brothers movie The Replacements.

Insider tip: Master scuba diving trainer Kevin Young says he can â&#x20AC;&#x153;teach you how to survive underwater on a scuba dive for less than $100.â&#x20AC;?

Horseback riding is popular in the Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Retreat Region and Staunton River State Park built a separate campground with horse stalls. This beautiful park is on the National Register of Historic Places for retaining its original design and structures. Located where the Dan and Staunton

rivers join Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir, it offers great lake access, an Olympic-sized pool, campgrounds and picnic shelters, tennis and volleyball courts, and Civilian Conservation Corpsbuilt cabins with modern conveniences.

River Traders, just outside the entrance of Staunton River State Park, rents canoes, kayaks, jon boats, and pontoon boats. Nearby, the town of South Boston has great restaurants, shops, and historic charm. A former tobacco warehouse turned art center, The Prizery stages plays in a theater, showcases visual arts, and tells the story of a game-changing American Revolutionary War military crossing of the Dan River with a well-con-

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ceived exhibit, which includes a window view of the crossing site.

The Staunton River Battlefield State Park, near the Patrick Henry National Memorial, preserves land where local citizens defeated Union soldiers who tried to destroy a bridge over the Staunton River in 1864. The following year, Confederate leaders escaped to Danville across this bridge after abandoning Richmond. Huge earthworks, the rebuilt bridge, trails, a visitor center, and museum are worth a visit.

For more information Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Retreat: varetreat.com

Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere scuba diving destination

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Amelia | Appomattox | Buckingham | Brunswick | Charlotte | Dinwiddie | Halifax | Lunenburg | Mecklenburg | Nottoway | Prince Edward | City of Petersburg

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 35

virginia I gwen woolf

Pick your accommodation options to suit your preferences Bath County choices range from the rustic to the luxurious Birds are chirping, then comes a “hoo-hoo, hoohoo, hoo-hoo.” Is that an owl? If you’re not used to awakening to the sounds of nature, then these are exotic noises, highlighted even more by the fact that you’ve been sleeping in a log cabin with a wood-burning fireplace and cowboy boots on the floor. So it is at the Fort Lewis Lodge in the County of Bath in Virginia’s beautiful western highlands.

From the cabin’s porch, you see an expanse of fields, trees, and mountains with a picturesque red barn in the distance. A walk leads to the rushing sounds of the Cowpasture River. In the quietude, your ears are perked for one very welcome sound — a country dinner bell. You wouldn’t want to miss the summons to another hearty meal at the 1850s mill house.

John Cowdon has turned his family’s former cow/calf farm into a 3,200-acre mountain playground for guests. You can hike, fish, canoe, or swim, or you can sip wine in a screened-in porch, socialize in the pavilion, or just relax.

“It’s so peaceful,” says Kathy Laughlin, of Roanoke, Va. She and her husband, Jim, have been regular guests for 20 years.

Guests can choose among 19 rooms, including log cabins, a lodge, a silo, and an elegant (kidfree) historic house.

A highlight is the thoughtfully planned breakfast and dinner buffets produced by Cowdon’s wife, Caryl, who specializes in creative side dishes with “lots of colors and textures.” She’ll also pack you a picnic lunch on request. (fortlewislodge.com) Fort Lewis Lodge is among a variety of accommodations available in Bath, a scenic county four hours from Washington. You won’t find the usual chain motels, but it’s possible to sleep in everything from a tent in the woods to a luxury resort.

Friendly innkeepers are fonts of information on local lore.

Bath Co. Tourism

At Ingalls Overlook, the mountain view across Bath County seems endless.

Colonial Beach, Virginia Westmoreland County

Great Place to Get away,Play and stay

Close to D.C and Richmond

Colonial Beach.org or westmorlandva.org

SPOT ROCK STARS Find Someing Remarkae

The County of Bath is an enticing place filled with scenic vistas, local flair and exciting adventures just waiting to be discovered.

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For more information and brochure call 804-224-7181

36 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

1.800.628.8092 www.DiscoverBath.com

Omni Homestead Resort Warm Spirit Spa

Elegant luxury The Inn at Gristmill Square is a cluster of 19th-century shops and residences renovated into 17 guest rooms with modern amenities. John and Kate Loeffler, the young proprietors, offer gourmet cuisine at the Waterwheel Restaurant in the old mill. Guests are treated to picnicbasket breakfasts delivered to their rooms. (gristmillsquare.com) Natural Retreats, with offices in

Bath Co. Tourism

the former Homestead dairy, rents out luxury vacation homes and has private river frontage. (naturalretreats.com) The Omni Homestead Resort is the grand dame of the county and one of the Old Dominionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treasures that grew up around the hot springs. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place where you take afternoon tea in the Grand Hall and â&#x20AC;&#x153;dressâ&#x20AC;? for dinner in the main dining room.

The hotel has 483 guest rooms and offers everything from skiing and golf to falconry. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a state-of-the art spa with an aqua thermal suite, a spa garden, and a family water park.

The resort also owns the Jefferson Pools, visited by Thomas Jefferson himself. Much like guests used to â&#x20AC;&#x153;take the waters,â&#x20AC;? you soak in 98-de-

www.

additional coverage at recreationnews.com

Learn more Bath Co. Tourism: discoverbath.com

Shenandoah Valley fun (540) 743-5698 2978 US Rt. 211 E, Luray, VA 22835

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Llama wool dyeing July 12 & 19 10am-4pm We are now a trail site on the Artisan Center of Virginia!

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Our luxuriously appointed cabins at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains are an ideal romantic retreat for couples or great base for outdoor recreation. We're near the entrance to Shenandoah National Park and close to other attractions. Enjoy our family restaurant!

Dining at Fort Lewis Lodge is a blend of color, texture, and good flavor.

gree mineral-springs pools inside wooden bathhouses. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I used to go to Europe for vacation,â&#x20AC;? says Laska Hurley of Arlington, Va., a federal employee enjoying the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s river reflexology walk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I figured Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d just come here now.â&#x20AC;? (thehomestead.com) These Virginia mountains also offer an ideal place for summer camps.

Camp Mont Shenandoah offers girls ages 7-16 life skills leading to selfconfidence, says the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ann Warner. (campmontshenandoah.com)

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Guests become like extended family at Jo and Jonah Windhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vine Cottage Inn, a bed-andbreakfast. A pre-1900 house with 13 guest rooms, the inn features hardwood floors, Oriental rugs, chenille bedspreads, lace curtains, vintage bathtubs, and Joâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand-picked collectibles.

Guests sit at a large dining table and are treated to Joâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabulous French toast with praline sauce cooked on her 1928 Magic Chef castiron stove. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like coming to Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s,â&#x20AC;? says Jonah Windham. (vinecottageinn.com) Liz and Richard King offer similar comfort at their tastefully decorated 1899 Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Victorian Inn bed-andbreakfast with its turrets, bay windows, wrap-around verandah, six guest rooms, and three cottages. (kingsvictorianbandb.com) Hidden Valley Bed and Breakfast is an 1848 Greek Revival mansion that was restored by proprietors Pam

and Ron Stidham. You can stay in the main house with its three guest rooms, or in a summer kitchen duplex, a replica built by filmmakers for the movie Sommersby. There are goats and chickens to pet, a wildflower trail, fly fishing on the Jackson River, and hiking and mountain biking in the adjoining George Washington National Forest. (hiddenvalleybedandbreakfast.com) Two popular recreational areas â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Lake Moomaw and Douthat State Park â&#x20AC;&#x201D; have camping facilities, rental cabins, or lodges.

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recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 37

pennsylvania I darrin youker

City Island is focal point of entertainment in Harrisburg City Island is a focal point for Harrisburg, Pa., entertainment and revitalization. Located in the middle of the wide Susquehanna River, the island is a family-friendly recreation destination featuring a park, minor league baseball stadium, and river cruise — attractions that have developed during the past 25 years.

The river cruise — aboard The Pride of the Susquehanna — is largely credited with bringing entertainment back to Harrisburg. In 1988, a group of business and civic leaders floated the idea of creating a unique activity that would help bring some life back into the city. A nonprofit was created, and The Pride of the Susquehanna was launched.

The paddle-wheel boat runs cruises every day in the summer with different themed events, and well into November with special cruises.

From simple sightseeing ventures, to jazz cruises or beer-tasting trips, The Pride of the Susquehanna has something to fit any taste.

Built as a way to anchor attractions

in Harrisburg, the riverboat operates as a nonprofit, which helps keep costs affordable, said Jason Meckes, the attraction’s executive director.

“We are not out to make money,” Meckes said. “We want to get people to enjoy Harrisburg.”

A popular summer trek on the riverboat is the Saturday afternoon “Pirates on the Pride.” Kids boarding the boat dress up and defend the riverboat against a marauding band of pirates trying to board it.

Kid defenders are armed with water balloons and squirt guns — but so are the pirates. The one sure thing is kids, pirates, and parents will all get wet.

“It really is a blast,” Meckes said.

The riverboat is just one of the attractions that make Harrisburg, about a two-hour drive from Washington D.C., a weekend-getaway destination.

Capturing the Civil War The city also boasts the National Civil War Museum, unusual in its

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perspective of telling the Civil War story from both Northern and Southern perspectives.

The museum has more than 25,000 exhibit and archival pieces, including artifacts from Robert E. Lee and Abraham Lincoln.

A tour of the museum gives a chronological history of key moments in the war, supported by exhibits that tell the human story of the battle between the states. This year, the museum has several exhibits focusing on the happenings of the Civil War during 1864 to commemorate sesquicentennial of the fourth year of the war.

The National Civil War Museum, along with the Whitaker Center for Science and Arts and City Island, are among the unique destinations in Pennsylvania’s capital city.

Take in a game Also on City Island, the Harrisburg Senators will be playing America’s pastime through the end of August.

The Senators — a Class AA affiliate of the Washington Nationals — play ball at Metro Bank Park, which commands a picturesque view of the city skyline and broad Susquehanna River.

“As far as I know, we are the only baseball park on an island,” said Randy Whitaker, the team’s general manager. “It is a unique location and very compelling setting. It’s a great place to take in a game.”

Like a number of minor league ball parks, the game is just part of the experience. The Senators have a number of between-inning events to get the crowd excited, along with giveaways, fireworks, and special promotions.

“Our general appeal is that we are affordable family fun,” Whitaker said. “Some people come here and don’t even watch the game. That’s perfectly fine. They are still having a good time.”

Insider tip: After the game, visitors can take a pedestrian-only bridge from the ballpark to Second Street — known by the locals as Restaurant Row. There are more than 75 places to eat, from fast food to fine dinning.

El Sol Mexican Restaurant has some of the region’s best Mexican fare, while Ceoltas Irish Pub has an excellent tap selection and pub food.

For faster, but filling, food, Neato Burrito offers mission burritos, Harrisburg-style.

Harrisburg’s Restaurant Row has enough attractions to satisfy any epicurean, said Leigh Ann Urban, of Harrisburg’s Downtown Improvement District.

An added bonus is that the restaurants, bars, and nightlife attractions are all within walking distance of downtown hotels, she said.

“Those who are more familiar with the nearby town of Hershey are often surprised when they discover all Harrisburg has to offer,” said Rick Dunlap, who promotes the area. “It is a diverse city with a rich history and culture. Visitors enjoy the full schedule of festivals and special events that celebrate everything from local artists, music, wine, and beer, to the sparkling waters of the mighty Susquehanna River.”

For More Information: Hershey Capital Region Tourism: hersheycapitalregion.com The Pride of the Susquehanna: harrisburgriverboat.com Hershey Capital Region Tourism

VisitHersheyH arrisburg.org /Event 877 – 727 – 8573

38 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

The Harrisburg Senators are the only minor league team to play on an island.

pennsylvania I staff

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Willow Bay Recreation Area, just west of Bradford, Pa., is the most developed recreation area in the forest.

Nearby attractions include the amazing Kinzua Sky Walk, which extends 624 feet into the scenic Kinzua Gorge, and the Zippo/Case Museum. Both are free attractions.

Visitors to the Kinzua Sky Walk “walk the tracks across the sky” to view the scenery through the partial glass floor and see the fallen towers from the original Kinzua Sky Viaduct that, in 1882, was the longest and highest viaduct in the world. New to the park this year is a hiking trail to the bottom of the gorge.

The Zippo/Case Museum is located at the birthplace of the iconic Zippo lighter and the storied Case knife. The free museum, in Bradford, offers you a chance to learn the story of Zippo and create a one-of-a-kind Zippo lighter.

The website anf.com offers downloadable hiking trail maps and other useful information. Reservations for camping and cabin rentals can be made online at alleghenysite.com.

The Willow Bay Recreation Area is also the local site of Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit Tournament, July 11-13. Founded in 1984, the Masters Walleye Circuit is the oldest team tournament in the walleye world. It has a rich history of competition in top destinations. (masterswalleyecircuit. com)

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recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 39

maryland I n.j. summers

Dinghy Poker Run splashes into into Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Middle River Event producer Jim High describes the Dinghy Poker Run as the next potential â&#x20AC;&#x153;Punkin Chunkinâ&#x20AC;? and says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most fun you can have with just a bathing suit on.â&#x20AC;? The fun splashes into the water July 26 in Middle River, Md., mostly within the 6-mph zone.

Yes, participants need their own softsided inflatable dinghy.

And yes, participants have to supply their own motor. And yes, they need to pre-register. If you can do these three things, then you are in store for some great fun on the water.

The event will start and end at Middle Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Red Eye Yacht Club. It begins with participant check-in at 11:00am, lunch at noon, and a 1:00pm departure for the first stop. The event will end around 7:00pm.

Dinghy Poker Run

How it works As in previous years, typical dinghy crews of up to four people motor between five predetermined locations to collect a poker card, with the last stop and final card being given at Red Eye Yacht Club. The best five-card stud poker hand at the end of the event wins The Dinghy Poker Run has been described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;fun in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest water park.â&#x20AC;? wispresort.com 301.387.4000 855.990.0250

continued on page 41

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maryland I jamison hensley

Baysox baseball brings family fun to the ballpark Just like aspiring young pitchers and hitters trying to make it to the major leagues, children are often best introduced to the sport of baseball with a trip to the local minor league baseball stadium.

When it comes to family fun, it’s hard to top the experience of attending a Bowie Baysox game.

The AA franchise, which is an affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, is conveniently located in Bowie, Md., just a 30-minute drive from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The Baysox make it worth the trip for families, from the prices to their promotions to the play area at Prince George’s Stadium.

“Our focus is families,” said Brandan Kaiser, who promotes the team. “Most of the people that come to our games won’t remember who won.

They will remember that they had a great time.”

Mike Wooden, of Linthicum, Md., enjoys taking his wife and three children to Baysox games.

“I think it’s a much better family experience than Oriole Park,” Wooden said. “The biggest reason is because it’s more family-friendly. The Baysox do a great job of marketing to families. They set the park up to be very inviting.”

Let’s take a trip around the bases with the Baysox:

First base — convenience Even before you get to a major league stadium, you have to fight traffic going into the city, pay for expensive parking, and take a long walk to the ballpark. There is no such hassle when attending a game in Bowie.

Parking is free and abundant around the stadium. It typically takes a couple of minutes to get to the front of the stadium, where you’re greeted with someone handing you a free program.

There’s even a statue of a baseball player holding the hand of a young girl over the top of the entrance.

Once inside the stadium, there’s less congestion — the stadium capacity is 10,000 — to navigate around on the concourse, which is a big plus when you’re walking around with small children. The high number of general admission seats allows families the freedom to move around instead of being stuck in the same seats for three hours.

Second base — affordability The highest-priced ticket at Prince George’s

Middle River continued from page 40 a Grand Prize. Drawings and raffles will also be held throughout the event.

The Poker Run has some new twists and turns in store, from how you will receive your poker cards to a few water attractions you may encounter between the stops.

Brenda Wilmoth of Baltimore Boating Center, the Poker Run’s official “dealer,” has participated in numerous other Dinghy Poker Runs and says, “We want this event to be so unique that they can’t

Abby Hensley

There are plenty of family activities to enjoy at a Baysox game.

Stadium is $17, which is a little pricey by minor league standards. But, it’s quite affordable when you compare it to major league ballparks.

“For a $17 ticket at our games, you can sit directly behind home plate,” Kaiser said.

An even better value — the $10 general admission bleacher seats for adults, which are only $7 for children ages 3 to 12. They are still located on top of the action.

“There is not a bad seat in the house,” Wooden said.

When you consider you’re not paying for parking or programs, it’s quite a value. Plus, the Old Bay cheese pretzel is certainly a deal at just $5.

Third base — atmosphere There’s a certain down-home charm at minor league games. It’s easy to approach players for autographs and you’ll likely bump into a fuzzy green mascot named Louie at some point while moving about the stadium.

There’s as much fun for children in between innings as there is during the game itself. The Baysox hold several on-the-field contests with kids

wait to participate again next year.”

Nicci DeAngelo, one of the event organizers, promises, “We will utilize social media, the event website, photography, aerial videos, and share as much as we can with everyone.”

Participants must pre-register for the event at the Poker Run website. (dinghypokerrun.org) The deadline for registration is July 22. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

A complete set of rules is on the website, but among the most important: u Soft-sided dinghies only. u No hydraulic or gasoline-powered water hoses for squirting water.

during the intermissions, including tug-of-war and a challenge similar to a sack race.

A unique feature is allowing a young fan to take over for the public address announcer. Some of the more challenging names are mispronounced, but it’s all in good fun.

Home plate — play area The jewel of the park for children is a mini-carnival located on the far right side of the stadium.

Children can get their faces painted, take a few swings at a hovering wiffle ball, and then hop on a carousel.

All of these games cost extra, but it’s a good way to break up the afternoon for the smaller fans.

This area is a popular one and remains crowded throughout the game.

“The little ones aren’t going to watch the baseball,” Wooden said. “They’re going for the whole experience. The Baysox do a great job of that.”

Editor’s note: Jamison Hensley of ESPN.com has a new book, Flying High: Stories of the Baltimore Ravens, that will be available in August.

u Water balloons are prohibited, and are considered littering.

Light fare and snacks will be provided to participants during the day.

Bottled water, beverages, and food will also be available for purchase at some of the various stops.

The Middle River Dinghy Poker Run benefits the Norris Lane Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing financial assistance to individuals looking to further their education.

For more information Dinghy Poker Run: dinghypokerrun.org

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 41

music festivals I gwen woolf

Two music festivals strike a chord in Virginia this summer From rhythm and blues to bluegrass, two wellestablished music festivals in the Blue Ridge Mountains, both within a five-hour drive of Washington, D.C., are tuning up for this summer’s entertainment.

Both are affiliated with The Crooked Road, a driving trail through Southwest Virginia that celebrates the musical heritage of the region.

FloydFest, set for July 23-27, is entering its 13th year. The festival site is directly off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 170.5, near the small town of Floyd. Organizers expect 10,000 to 13,000 attendees daily.

This year’s lineup includes 70 artists performing R&B, blues, reggae, Americana, and other genres.

Headliners include Ben Harper and Charlie Mus-

selwhite, Lauryn Hill, Ray LaMontagne, Thievery Corporation, Ziggy Marley, and Michael Franti and Spearhead.

There are 10 handcrafted, timber-framed outdoor stages around the 80-acre festival site. With scenic views of the surrounding mountains, concertgoers sit on the grass or lawn chairs to watch performances, or get up and dance if the mood strikes. The venues range in size from the Dreaming Creek Main Stage to the smaller, more intimate performances at the Workshop Porch.

There also are music panels and workshops, areas for children and teenagers, a healing arts village, and dozens of vendors, crafters, and food and drink offerings.

Most attendees camp off-site or stay in nearby hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts. There is limited on-site camping, “glamping,” and RV space available.

Many outdoor activities are available, including hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, and disc golf.

Why is FloydFest special?

“Through the years, FloydFest has created an authentic atmosphere for festival-goers to experience an unequaled intermingling of music, scenery, community, and self-discovery,” says Julie Hansell, who promotes the festival.

She indicates organizers seek to keep the festival relatively small, with high-quality music, and fresh with changing themes and imagery. This year’s theme is “Revolutionary.”

Tickets should be purchased online in advance.

Old-time fiddlin’ The Old Fiddlers’ Convention bills itself as the “World Capital of Old Time Mountain Music.” This is the 79th year for the event, which will be held Aug. 4-9 at Felts Park in Galax, Va. Performers vie for cash prizes in various categories, including bluegrass, folk, traditional music, and dance. There may be as many as 100 competitors per category, and some have been competing yearly since 1935. There’s also a youth competition.

Spectators can sit in a covered grandstand, or bring lawn chairs. On-site camping is available.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Daytime temperatures can be very warm, but evenings are generally cool, and rain is almost a given at some point, so rain gear is advisable.

FESTIVALS AT A GLANCE What: FloydFest When: July 23-27 Where: Milepost 170.5, Blue Ridge Parkway, Floyd, Va. Tickets/info: 888-VA-FESTS, floydfest.com What: Old Fiddlers’ Convention When: Aug. 4-9 Where: Felts Park, 601 S. Main St., Galax, Va. Tickets/Info: 276-236-8541, oldfiddlersconvention.com

42 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

culture I gwen woolf

Unusual venues add twists to the arts Would you like a little Schubert with your lobster salad?

A trio of women takes the stage and produces heavenly chamber music with a piano, violin, and viola for an appreciative audience that will also enjoy a gourmet meal. The acoustics are wonderful, the tables are elegant, and the setting, well, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a one-time horse barn in a small county in the mountains of western Virginia.

The Garth Newel Music Center is a surprising cultural treasure in the largely rural County of Bath, which has just 4,700 residents. The center, now in its 41st season, hosts 60 concerts a year â&#x20AC;&#x201D; mostly classical music, but occasionally jazz, blues, and traditional music. It is located midway between Warm Springs and Hot Springs, a 200-mile drive from Washington.

A recent special evening featured a Hollywood theme, with dressed-up guests arriving on a red carpet and taking turns being photographed during an outdoor wine reception.

Some really got into the fun by impersonating celebrities. Inside, the concert hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wooden walls were decked out with movie star pictures and the tables were decorated with flower arrangements and chocolate Oscars.

Music rides high Garth Newel, which means â&#x20AC;&#x153;new hearthâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;new homeâ&#x20AC;? in Welsh, was named by the couple who built the estate in the 1920s. The property was bequeathed for the center upon the 1981 death of owner Christine Herter Kendall, an artist, musician, and patron of the arts. The concert hall was formerly an indoor riding ring for the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arabian horses.

The manor house is currently available for overnight accommodations for concertgoers.

The centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main season runs from April through October, but special events are held year round.

Last month, the center hosted the Virginia Blues and Jazz Festival. The center has its own chef and routinely offers optional gourmet dinners after concerts.

Besides guest artists, the center features the Garth Newel Piano Quartet, the artists-in-residence who have performed at New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carnegie Hall and Strathmore Hall in Bethesda, Md., among many other venues in the United States and abroad.

Rachel Young, a cellist with the National Symphony, and her hus-

band, bassist Anthony Manzo, frequently perform at Garth Newel and give it high marks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The center has a great reputation for great programming and inspired performances in a beautiful, quiet, rural setting,â&#x20AC;? Young says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We love performing there ... the chance to get away from everything and just focus on the music all day. ... The added bonus is the combination of music and food.â&#x20AC;?

The center has a dedicated following in the region. Concerts are informal and the musicians interact with the guests. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every concert feels like a college reunion,â&#x20AC;? says Christopher L. Williams, the centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s executive director.

Education is one of the centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core missions. A summer fellowship program is held for instrumentalists ages 18-26, and there are additional music workshops for the public.

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Artistic getaway The County of Bath also has another unusual enclave for the arts that stirs the creative juices. Nimrod Hall, established in 1783, is the centerpiece of a summer retreat for artists and writers. Once a stagecoach stop, the house was used as a summer resort in the 1880s, and became a boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; camp in the 1930s. Its current use dates from 1986.

Participants stay in the rambling white house or in rustic cottages on the 100-acre grounds next to the Cowpasture River.

There are six weeks set aside for artists and three weeks for writers over the summer, as well as weekend opportunities. Participants range in age from 18 to 80.

Here, the guests can indulge their crafts away from the hubbub of daily life. Artists can work in the medium of their choice, including â&#x20AC;&#x153;plein airâ&#x20AC;? painting, sculpture, collage, and pottery, in a relaxed, noncompetitive atmosphere.

They can work in solitude, collaborate, or get one-on-one advice.

Writers might work on books or short stories and attend workshops.

Artists and writers of all levels are welcome. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be good. You just have to be willing,â&#x20AC;? says Laura Loe of Richmond, Va. She and her husband, Will Loving, became the new owners recently. Before that, the property had been in the same family since 1906. continued on page 47

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adventures in taste I reed hellman

Citrus-cured fish makes ceviche a gustatory delight Ceviche is one of my culinary guilty pleasures.

For those of you who have not had the gustatory delight, ceviche is fresh raw fish, cured in lime, lemon, or other citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers. The flavor is crisp, clean, and deliciously acidic.

Marinating in the citrus-based mixture adds flavor to the fish and causes the protein structure to denature — to break down and reform, similar to cooking a liquid egg white that hardens and changes color. However, while the fish may appear to be “cooked,” acid marinades do not kill bacteria or parasitic worms, unlike using heat to cook. Because no heat is used, the dish must be prepared fresh to minimize any potential for food poisoning.

Most likely, ceviche — also called “cebiche” or “seviche” — came from the Moche people of coastal Peru as much as 2,000 years ago. Another theory holds that Moorish women from Granada, accompanying the Spanish conquistadors and colonizers to South and Central America, brought escabeche, a vinegar-marinated dish. Still other authorities attribute the origin to other western South or Central American cultures or even the Polynesians of the South Pacific.

My first experience with ceviche was actually in Alaska at the Double Muskie, a noted Cajun restaurant in Girdwood. The fish was marshmallow-sized chunks of snow-white halibut, freshly caught from

Kachemak Bay, rich with spices and the acid bite of limes. I had heard about ceviche and wanted to give it a try. From my first bite, I was hooked, just as surely as the halibut had been.

Traditional-style ceviche is marinated for about three hours. Modern-style ceviche frequently has a very short marinating period — with the right fish, literally the time it takes to mix the ingredients, carry the ceviche to the table, and serve.

“You can make it with any white fish, though my first was sea scallops,” said Jay Angle, chef and owner of Salsa Grill, a restaurant in Security, Md., known for its Peruvian cuisine and other delicacies. “You can use tilapia and orange roughy, but corvina (sea bass) is the one, the best fish for it.

The Peruvians favor corvina.”

“Each fish ‘cooks’ differently,” he continued. “I do it by taste, how much lime to use. I barely cover the fish with lime juice. Then I use cilantro, onions, and salt and a good spice with hot peppers and garlic.”

Angle also recommends cubing the fish, then placing the cubed fish under the fan in the refrigerator to dry it a bit. He also mentioned that, in Peru, ceviche is often used to ease a hangover.

“They eat it for Sunday brunch. Then they drink the marinade, the ‘tiger’s milk’ they call it.”

Ceviche is usually accompanied by side dishes, often starchy, that complement its acidic flavors.

Angle served his ceviche with a sweet potato and a toasted native corn called cancha. Lettuce, avocado, or plantain also frequently appear.

Ceviche has become a popular international dish prepared in a variety of ways throughout the Americas. Most Latin American countries have added their own touches or garnishes.

In South Florida, conch ceviche, or “conch salad” has become very popular. Diced fresh conch, marinated in lime with chopped onions, celery, and bell pepper may have diced pequin or

scotch bonnet peppers — or even tomato juice — added for extra spice.

The following recipe is based loosely on the Peruvian style and Jay Angle’s preparation. Be aware that because marinating in citrus juice does not kill bacteria or parasitic worms, you must be absolutely certain that the fish you use is fresh and properly handled.

Peruvian Style Ceviche 1 pound white saltwater fish (corvina, albacore, sole, snapper, halibut, or most anything on a sushi menu) 1 cup lime juice (key limes if available) 1/2 cup lemon juice 1/2 cup orange juice 1 tablespoon salt 1 thinly sliced rocoto chile (chile manzano in Mexican markets) or 2 aji limon (substitute a habanero) 1 medium onion, sliced very thinly into halfmoons 4 tablespoons chopped cilantro Cut the fish into pieces up to 1-inch square. The larger the pieces, the longer it takes to marinate.

Salt the fish, then cover with the citrus juice in a non-reactive (glass or plastic) container with a lid.

Add the sliced onions and the chiles.

Chill for at least two hours, possibly as much as three hours or longer. (Chef Jay Angle will marinate his ceviche for as long as four hours.) With fish of a quality for eating raw, the centers of the pieces can still appear uncooked. To serve, top the onions and chiles with the fish and garnish with the cilantro.

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit his website at reedhellmanword smith.com or email your questions and comments to rhway2go@yahoo.com.

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Ceviche is now a popular way to prepare fish that draws on several several cultural traditions.

44 recreation news I july 2014 I recreationnews.com

pennsylvania I gwen woolf

‘The Burning’ lights up Chambersburg, Pa., this month “Fire the town!” cries the Confederate. Suddenly, flames erupt in the windows of buildings in the public square, smoke pours into the night sky, and crackling noises and cannon fire are heard.

Chambersburg, Pa., is burning down — again.

Actually, it’s the annual Civil War reenactment called “1864 The Ransoming, Burning and Rebirth of Chambersburg.”

It’s coming up for the fourth year on July 19 and is particularly special because it’s the 150th anniversary of the traumatic event that left the town in ruins.

On July 30, 1864, Confederate troops under the command of Gen. John McCausland set fire to the town after it refused to pay a ransom demand of $100,000 in gold or $500,000 in Yankee dollars.

The order to burn came from Gen. Jubal Early in reprisal for Union destruction of property in Virginia. More than 500 structures were destroyed and thousands left homeless in Chambersburg — the only town in the North burned during the war.

Dramatic reenactment

Franklin Co. Tourism

The commemoration serves not only to remember the historical event, but also to pay tribute to the strength and spirit of those who rebuilt the town.

The reenactment is dramatic. A narrator stands on the courthouse steps to tell the story to the crowd seated on benches or lawn chairs. Confederate reenactors ride in on horses, the ransom demand is made, the town refuses, and the burning ensues.

“It was awesome!” said a spectator last year.

“This was on my to-do list.”

“It’s different seeing it than reading about it. It’s exciting, isn’t it?” said another.

The goal is to “provide as much realism as possible, so (the audience) will be immersed in it,” says Corey Eslinger, of Eslinger Lighting, who organizes the special effects. He says “high-quality continued on page 46

The courthouse and much of Chambersburg was burned in July 1864.

wine doctor I edward finstein

Memory, Concentration, and Logic help us appreciate wine When it comes to wine appreciation, certain mental aspects — memory, concentration, and logic — make a great impact on someone’s ability to better taste wine.

Generally, memory tends to get worse with age, definitely affecting wine appreciation. Many folks say they can taste a wine, but half an hour later, not remember what it was like. This problem becomes compounded when you’ve tasted many wines.

Good memory is a real plus in appreciating wine. Being able to remember and recognize certain sensory characteristics is crucial to judging it, but what good is building up a “wine library” of characteristic smells and tastes in the brain if you can’t recall them when desired?

A good memory saves time, promotes better results, and allows the taster to sample and compare more products. Memory alone is not absolute, though. Closely related is experience. It’s literally impossible to remember, let alone identify, a characteristic that you have not previously experienced.

Certain exercises can increase your memory in general, and more specifically aid in your wine appreciation. You’ve got to try shaking your brain cells up a bit. I’m not talking about going on some crazy ride at an amusement park that will rearrange your molecules, but something a little more sedate that will stimulate the brain.

For example, if you’re right-handed, try brushing your teeth with your left hand. Instead of smelling coffee first thing in the morning, take a whiff of something else, such as oregano or vanilla extract.

These variations from the norm help fire your brain’s neurons, strengthening memory.

Another great way to increase your memory when it comes to wine is to make tasting notes.

(Many students will tell you they remember far more by writing stuff down when studying for exams than simply reading about it.)

When it comes to wine, if you only taste several each year, you’ll probably have no problem remembering them. However, when that number rises substantially, it becomes next to impossible.

The great ones and the severely poor ones might stand out in your mind, but everything else becomes a homogenous blur. By making notes, you also have documentation that acts as a great reference tool.

Concentration is another key issue when it comes to wine appreciation.

Good powers of concentration are a real benefit for a wine taster. Without them, it is very difficult to focus on and isolate specific smells, senses, and tastes, thus increasing your sensitivity to them.

Introducing past bad or good experiences and potential future ones into the tasting environment certainly gets in the way as well. The biggest deterrents to concentration, with respect to wine, are distractions such as extraneous noises and smells.

Eliminating these distractions is the key. When at a big event where there are lots of people, you might try finding a quiet tasting space somewhere off to the side to do your thing.

Ensure it’s away from food so the smells don’t interfere, which can be hard to do at wine festi-

vals. As much as etiquette dictates that potential tasters don’t wear any fragrance like perfume or aftershave to events, there are still those that do, and unfortunately, it’s hard to avoid. Simply move away from them, if you are able to.

It is possible to train yourself to concentrate better on wine through mental exercises. Some people claim simple yoga mind-clearing exercises help.

Logic in wine tasting is important, too. It’s the ability to reason in a rational, organized order, allowing ideas and things to fall into place naturally and sensibly, thereby providing easier understanding.

For best results, be sure you follow the correct procedure when tasting. Always visually examine a wine first, then move on to the nose, and, finally, the palate.

By following this logical approach, data about a wine will fall correctly into place.

Increasing your memory and powers of concentration, as well as utilizing logic, will definitely make you a better wine taster. © Edward Finstein, “The Wine Doctor” 2014.

“The Wine Doctor” is Edward Finstein, awardwinning author, TV/radio host, renowned wine journalist, international wine judge, professor of wine, and consultant. Website: winedoctor.ca Twitter: twitter.com/drwineknow Blogspot: thewinedoctor.blogspot.com Doc’s Grapevine: winedoctor.ca/docs-grapevine.html Facebook: facebook.com/EdwardDocFinstein?fref=ts

recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 45

Chambersburg

devoted to “The Burning,” according to Janet Pollard, who promotes the county.

Also taking place on Main Street on July 19 from 9:00am to 4:00pm will be a street fair with some 200 craft and food vendors and entertainment.

continued from page 45

Franklin Co. Tourism

Chambersburg officials negotiate with Confederate reenactors during the presentation.

Franklin Co. Tourism

Special lighting and smoke give the appearance of burning buildings during the reenactment on July 19.

equipment” is the key to making the scene look so authentic. Like a theatrical production, a computerized lighting control system is programmed in advance, based on the script. LED lighting fixtures with a combination of colors are placed inside three buildings to simulate the fire effect. The audio operates with wireless microphones, and fog and haze machines create the smoke, which is controlled manually by technicians.

“It’s a tremendous undertaking,” says Eslinger. He wouldn’t be specific, but promises “surprises” in this year’s production.

The weekend begins July 18, with a Civil War Ball and an art exhibit with a rebirth theme.

Events on Saturday take place in Memorial Square in downtown Chambersburg, about a 100-mile drive from Washington.

Memorial Fountain, which honors veterans from all U.S. conflicts, marks the spot.

Preliminary events from 6:00-8:30pm will feature a presentation by Al Stone, who has portrayed Robert E. Lee for years and is retiring this year. He’ll appear in character, and then talk about his experiences playing Lee. There also will be music, Civil War walking tours, book signings, and exhibits.

The Burning is from 9:00-10:30pm. The reenactment is free.

There will be community church services on Sunday.

The Franklin County Mobile App will be

Town steeped in history Chambersburg is the site of two fascinating attractions operated by the county historical society. One is the two-story Mary Ritner Boardinghouse, where abolitionist John Brown stayed in 1859 while plotting his Harpers Ferry raid. The other is The Old Jail Museum and Library, where you can see cell blocks; the basement dungeon, where dangerous prisoners were kept; the walledin jail yard with a gallows for hangings, and the jailer’s quarters. The 1818 jail also has many interesting historical displays and an extensive genealogical library.

Another attraction, the Chambersburg Heritage Center, has displays about the frontier, Civil War, Underground Railroad, and other connections to Chambersburg One option for accommodations is the Penn National Inn, an 1847 manor house built by the family of Chambersburg’s founder and visited by Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee and J.E.B. Stuart. It’s part of Penn National, a golf course community in Fayetteville, where there are two 18-hole championship courses.

Learn more Franklin Co. Tourism: explorefranklincountypa.com

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continued from page 43

Nimrod Hall is close to Loe’s heart. An oil painter, Loe had been coming to the retreats for years, teaching artists’ workshops, and she and her husband were wed there.

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The couple is in the process of refurbishing the bedrooms. Accommodations aren’t fancy — Loe calls them “shabby chic.” There’s no television or air conditioning and participants share baths. Yet, the summer camp atmosphere seems to fuel creativity.

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recreationnews.com I july 2014 I recreation news 47

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