Recreation News, September 2015

Recreation The Official Publication for Government Employees Associations & Govemployee.com

September 2015

Volume 33/Number 9

www.recreationnews.com

News

Falling into fun in West Virginia

WIN!

A Two-Night Getaway for Two to The Founders Inn & Spa

plus

West Virginia fall getaways • Virginia pull-out section • Lancaster beckons for fun • Wet weekend in Wilkes-Barre • Festive Southern Delaware • Exploring the Allegheny National Forest • Colorful Garrett County • Cruise Corner

Exclusive FiOS offer for government employees:

SAVE $10 A MONTH ON A NEW WAY TO BUY TV. With new FiOS Custom TV, you can choose the types of channels you want.

FiOS® Custom TV Pay for the types of channels you love, stop paying for the ones you don’t.

FiOS 25/25 Mbps Internet Stream videos more smoothly, download HD movies^ in minutes.

FiOS Triple Play

69

ONLINE-ONLY OFFER

$

99 /mo.

for 2 years + taxes, equip. charges, FDV & other fees

NO ANNUAL CONTRACT

REGULARLY $79.99/mo.

Bonus with a 2-yr. agreement

Included for 12 mos. at no charge (Regularly $49.99/mo.)

Home Phone Talk all you want with unlimited nationwide residential calling.

ALL Premium Movie Channels Enjoy the original series and blockbuster movies that everyone is talking about, from STARZ®, Encore®, HBO®, SHOWTIME® and more for 12 months.

BOTH WITH A 2-YR . PRICE GUA R A NTEE

Special monthly discounts for Government employees.

Order online today: verizon.com/connections Hurry! This offer ends 9/19/15!

Verizon Connections Online Employee Offer: Discounts on qualifying bundles available to active qualifying employees of participating organizations. Standard bundle agreements, eligibility restrictions and additional terms apply. Program and amounts are subject to change and may be modified or discontinued at any time. Limit of one Verizon Connections discount per account. $350 via Verizon Visa® Prepaid Card issued by MetaBank®, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Use anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Must have service for 60 days with no past-due balance. Card mailed within 90 days of install date. Other card terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 9/19/15. ^ Additional equipment may be required for HD channels.

General: Limited-time offer for new FiOS TV and Internet res. custs. subscribing to a FiOS Custom TV, FiOS 25/25 Mbps Internet and Verizon Freedom® Essentials or FiOS Digital Voice (FDV) bundle. Promo rate via $40 bill credit for 24 mos.; beg. mo. 25 stand. rates apply. Price guarantee applies to base monthly rate only; excl. optional services & equip. charges. Two Channel Packs included for $69.99/mo. $10/mo. more per each additional Channel Pack. Up to $69.99 activation fee, up to $89.99 installation fee, $1.99/mo. Broadcast Fee, up to $4.99/mo. Regional Sports Network Fee, up to $9.99/mo. router fee, $0.99/mo. FDV Admin Fee, $11.99/mo. HD STB, & other fees, taxes, equip. charges & terms may apply. Subj. to credit approval & may require a deposit. FiOS avail. in select areas. Actual speeds may vary. Backup battery available for FiOS voice services & E911 (but not data or video). Custom TV Channel Packs require a minimum 30-day billing period. Channel lineup is subject to change and not all channels will be available at all times. Blackout restrictions apply. Customer cannot modify channel lineup within Channel Packs. 2-yr. Contract offer: Premium movie package offer requires subscription to premium movie channels. Discount applied via bill credit for 12 mos.; beg. mo. 13 stand. programming rates apply. 2-yr. agr. req’d. Beginning day 15, up to $350 ETF applies. ©2015 Verizon.

2 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

FEARLESS IS FORGING A NEW PATH. We give you the tools to take charge of your health. Take your Blue Health Assessment, and in just 10 minutes, you’ll get a personalized action plan for a healthier you and earn $50. No one does more to help federal employees get healthy, save money and live fearless.

Take your Blue Health Assessment now at fepblue.org/newpath This is a summary of the features for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan. Before making a final decision, please read the plan’s federal brochure (RI 71-005). All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations and exclusions set forth in the current federal brochure.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 3

f am il y travel I karen grah am

Create quality family time by exploring these Civil War treasures With the sesquicentennial observance of the Civil War winding down, there are still many ways to blend family time with local Civil War history.

Beautiful and historic Leesylvania State Park is located on the Potomac River in Woodbridge, Va. For history buffs, the park is the former home of the Lee and Fairfax families, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks.

Open year round, Leesylvania offers camping, canoeing and kayaking rentals, hiking trails, a visitor center museum, and playgrounds. On weekends, there are frequent children’s programs, including Junior Ranger day camps, children’s fishing tournaments, and guided historic and nature walks.

A park spokesperson recommends the Lee Woods Trail for families. It’s a 2-mile trail that passes by a Civil War site and a cannon on Freestone Point. (dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ leesylvania.shtml) Another Civil War treasure is Fort Ward in Alexandria, known as one of the best preserved Union forts, and one of a string of 28 forts and 21 batteries built to protect Washington, D.C., as the largest engineering project of the war.

The Fort Ward Museum provides exhibits, edu-

Helping in Jesus’ Name

Two Great Properties, One Great Golf Experience!

Ocean City, Maryland Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel

“DRIVER” PACKAGE Round Trip Transportation to the Course of Your Choice on the Second Day of your Trip 2 Nights Accommodations, 3 Total Rounds at Ocean Pines, Man O’ War & Bear Trap Dunes, 2 Breakfasts 9/7 to 10/11 10/12 to 10/31

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus set a high standard for compassion.

At Samaritan’s Purse, we follow His example by working in over 100 countries to save lives, ease suffering, and share the hope of the Gospel. Go and do likewise: samaritanspurse.org.

11/1 to 11/13

SCENIC DRIVE PACKAGE 2 Nights Accommodations, 3 Rounds at Baywood Greens, Ocean City Golf Club- Newport Bay and Eagles Landing 2 Breakfasts, Rain Guarantee*

9/27 to 10/18 10/19 to 10/31 11/1 to 11/13

CFC #10532

2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room 2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room 2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room

Marigot Beach Condominium Suites

9/8 to 9/26

Franklin Graham, President P.O. Box 3000 | Boone, NC 28607 facebook.com/samaritanspurse twitter.com/samaritanspurse

$359 $389 $289 $310 $249 $279

$359 $389 $345 $359 $249 $269 $195 $215

2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room 2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room 2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room 2-Bedroom Condo Hotel Room *Condos are Oceanfront; Rates are based on Quad Occupancy. Hotel is Oceanview; Rates are Based on Double Occupancy. Some restrictions may apply.- based on availability. Rates are per person

Call for Custom Golf Quote Today!

10100 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 www.ocgolfing.com 866-624-6534 info@ocgolfing.com

4 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

cational programs, and tours, all of which help teach an understanding of the role Alexandria played during the war. (alexandriava.gov/ fortward) Aside from Fort Ward, there are remnants of 10 forts and 10 gun battery emplacements visible today around Washington, D.C. Perhaps best known is Fort Stevens, located at 13th and Quackenbos streets NW and the site of the only Civil War battle fought within the District of Columbia.

President Abraham Lincoln became the only sitting president to come under enemy fire when he observed the battle in July 1864. The fort was partially restored in 1937. (dccivilwarforts.org) Prior to the Civil War, Alexandria was a distinctly Southern town and hosted a flourishing slave trade. Today, you can visit Freedom House, once home to Franklin and Armfield, which was among the largest domestic slave dealers. The site interprets the local slave trade history. (nvul.org/ freedomhouse)

South to Fredericksburg In Fredericksburg, Va., check out the children’s walking tour starting at the visitor center. The self-guided tour was designed for and written by kids, with a variety of destinations. (visitfred.com/ things-to-do) The first stop on the tour is the Fredericksburg Area Museum, which provides information on the Civil War battles in and around the area, as well as the stories of slaves who crossed the Rappahanock River to freedom in 1862.

The Battle of Fredericksburg was fought in December 1862 and was the first urban street fighting continued on page 31

p u b l ish er’ s note I karl teel

August flowers lead to surprising truths

Brightly colored flowers dot the New England landscape, from suburban household yards to the drives leading to country homes to the quaint streets of the numerous villages. Everywhere, there seem to be splashes of color.

I commented to my wife, “This must be because they have such harsh winters that they really celebrate the joy of summer weather.” Michelle responded, “I noticed that, too, but thought it was because they don’t have to wrestle with flowers getting baked to death in the South’s repressively hot summers.”

Like many things in life, there are multiple explanations to a phenomenon, and a bit of truth in each. That’s just one of the cool things you observe in travel.

Some observations are inescapable, like salmon swimming up waterfalls during the spawning season. Others, like the flowers, you just stumble onto. Circumstance opens many doors of observation, as well.

On a recent New England summer trip, we stayed at my sister’s cabin on a lake in Maine. The beautiful White Mountain National Forest clearly in view across the lake provided so that you relaxing sunset views and also obstructed any chance of a cell phone signal or Internet connection. This became a blessing in disguise, forcing me to

completely detach myself from the connectivity of work and truly relax, which was the whole purpose of the getaway.

My normal routine would have been to bang out a few emails while my wife carried on her morning get-ready rituals. Not this time. Instead, I sat in a comfy Adirondack chair, watched the mist rise over the lake’s peaceful mirror-like surface, observed a loon disappear below the surface, pondered where he would resurface, and just absorbed the tranquility of the moment. I heard a rustling in the blueberry bushes by the bank of the water. I thought I must have startled a little critter, a chipmunk perhaps. It turned out to be some small birds foraging through the branches seeking their blueberry breakfast.

Even planned travel can yield surprises. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen those bumper stickers proclaiming “This car climbed Mount Washington.” Invariably, I thought them rather hokey. But, on my most recent trip to New England, we made the trip ourselves. All I can say is “Wow!” What a sight: Steep granite ledges so tall they reached the tundra, or tree-free altitude area.

It reminded me of Alaska. We drove through the cloud level, too, and were above the cloud line. All here on the East Coast. I was delighted to have underestimated the majesty of the mountain.

Are you seeking wonder? The only thing you need to plan is to get away. The rest — simple observations, anticipated wonders, or stumbled-upon curiosities — all await.

Following our New England getaway, our next trip is a cruise to England. We’ve made a list of our anticipated

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 ~ Family Travel 5 ~ Publisher’s Note 6 ~ Editor’s Note 7 ~ Fun in a corn maze 8 ~ Travel Line 10 ~ Lancaster in the fall 12 ~ Wet weekend in Wilkes-Barre 14 ~ Exploring the Allegheny National Forest 16 ~ Cruise Corner VA-2 ~ Experience Newport NewsHampton VA-3 ~ Navy Behemoths in Norfolk VA-4 ~ Check out the Great Dismal VA-6 ~ Surprises in Virginia Beach VA-7 ~ See the Eastern Shore like a local VA-8 ~ Wine & Oysters on the Northern Neck

wonders and have our eyes wide open and ready for the unexpected ones. The time off is already being worked around.

So, what’s your next trip going to yield?

On our cover Fall foliage is only one reason to visit West Virginia. (West Virginia Tourism)

YOU DESERVE YOUR

& R R IGHTS

• Internal grievances • Sexual harassment • Internal EEO claims • Whistle-blower statutes • Merit systems Protection Board hearings • Office of Personnel Management hearings • Office of the Special Counsel appeals of civil service irregularities • Security clearances – obtaining and revocation appeals • Employment discrimination involving age, race, disability, sex, and national origin • Performance improvement plans and notices of intent to remove from Federal Service

POOL SERVICE

We Do The Hard Work... don't have to!

Let us Help You Protect Your Pool This Winter!

We currently offer:

AAA COLOR CARD CO. (814) 793-2342 aaacolorcard.com

Raised Ink • Flat Foil Full Color Flat Ink Fast Turnaround 1000s Logos in Stock Providing Quality Business Cards Since 1976.

Pool Winterization ● Pool covers Renovations & Repairs ● And more

Call us today for more information!

703-939-5062 info@millenniumpool.com www.millenniumpool.com

ESULTS

With over 35 years of experience, Farber Legal, LLC is known for its quick results in enforcing the rights of federal employees regarding:

MILLENNIUM

BUSINESS CARDS

WV-2 ~ Spirited Martinsburg WV-4 ~ West Virginia parks WV-6 ~ Experience the Mountain State WV-8 ~ American Mountain Theatre WV-10 ~ Leaf peeping in Tucker Co. VA-10 ~ Taste of Mecklenburg VA-12 ~ Wythe Co. treats VA-14 ~ Folkways preserved 19 ~ Antietam’s legacy 21 ~ Calendar of Events 26 ~ Colorful Garrett Co. 28 ~ Festive Southern Delaware 32 ~ Adventures in Taste 33 ~ Wine Doctor

Across from Montgomery Mall in the ISN BUILDING 10411 Motor City Dr. Suite 750 Bethesda, MD 20817

301.529.5437 or

240.395.1377

www.FarberLegal.com 888.529.7671 Fax

Evening & weekend appointments available

Founder, Mindy G. Farber, has an incredibly high success rate in settling federal cases.

She is the author of a bestselling book on employment law, and is on the board of the National Center for Labor & Employment law. Farber Legal, LLC represents federal employees at all GS levels.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 5

ed itor’ s note I marvi n bond

Simply St. Simon’s Island: A trip worth making Not being a surfer, I’ve always been partial to East Coast beaches, and the Mid-Atlantic has its share of good ones. However, sometimes, the road calls us to other locales to explore a place we’ve never been. So it was that Jane and I pulled onto I-95 in July after a detour to Virginia Beach and my father’s hometown of Edenton, N.C. We sampled some of the North Carolina barbeque Reed Hellman wrote about in the August issue, tasted South Carolina peaches, and spent a fun day and night in Savannah before hitting our beachside room on St. Simons Island, Ga. Part of the Golden Isles east of Brunswick, Ga., St. Simons is just north of Jekyll Island and about 40 minutes from St. Augustine, Fla. It is also said to be the westernmost of the East Coast barrier islands and lies almost due south of Cleveland, Ohio.

Jane and I love the Historic Hotels of America and found wonderful accommodations at the King and Prince on St. Simons. Our first-floor cabana room in the historic building at the resort, which opened in 1935, included a sitting room that opened onto our private patio just steps from a romantic porch swing and the beach itself.

Other buildings front the beach or cluster around multiple pools. The lobby area includes a bar and the oceanfront ECHO restaurant, which offers both inside and outside dining. There is a separate spa facility and there are interesting places

to explore as you move about the property, such as a courtyard garden and the nine stained glass windows depicting island locations. The resort also has an offsite golf course.

The King and Prince is ideally located, and you can easily reach the island’s several shopping and dining areas within minutes. St. Simons has a lively restaurant scene, with several having been featured on the Food Network. Brunswick stew, she-crab soup, and anything with shrimp are menu staples. There are also well-known barbeque options.

The Colonial Trolley Tour is a great way to get an insider’s view of the island’s history, people, and restaurants. The company’s owner gives all the 90-minute tours himself in William of Orange, an air-conditioned trolley.

We learned that St. Simons was the southernmost outpost of the American colonies and visited Fort Frederica, where Spanish desires to expand north from Florida were crushed. The Wesley Gardens hold 4,000 species of azaleas; undoubtedly a gorgeous sight in springtime. The historic lighthouse is worth a climb for views of the islands.

People throughout the island were unfailingly friendly and helpful and the beach was well maintained with a gentle surf. All in all, a trip worth making.

A traveler’s observation Though we traveled into the deep South on the heels of the shootings in Charleston, S.C., and the Confederate flag controversy at the state’s capitol, we found nothing but pride and respect throughout the tourism industry and among others we encountered. Regardless of race, everyone from managers to wait staff and bellmen went out of their way to be helpful and sought to give a good impression of their cities. Many tourism agencies offer hospitality training to those working in hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and that training was particularly evident in Savannah, St. Simons Island, and Lumberton, N.C., showing that the tourism industry can be a positive influence on race relations as well as on economic development.

Coming next month Wine and other libations Haunted attractions Exploring the Cumberland Valley

Special rates on insurance for federal employees.

New Cur & r Pol ent Hol icy der s

Home • Auto • Renters • Condo www.InsureFed.com Brought to you exclusively by:

Phone: Email: Website:

301.431.0000 insurefed@capitolbenefits.com www.insure f ed.com

Free $10 Amazon Gift Card with every valid quote request!

No purchase necessary!*

© 2015 The Travelers Indemnity Company. All rights reserved. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnit Company in the U.S. and other countries. PL-17270 New 3-15 *All requested information must be provided, in order to be considered a valid quote request.

6 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

corn m aze s I j ane and marvi n bond

Corn maze craze keeps growing R egional f all f arm attractions h ost great f amily f un, f rom h ay rid es to petting zo os September brings the opening of corn mazes across the Mid-Atlantic with their zig-zag twists and turns that create great fun for families. Many of the farms offer a host of other family friendly activities as well and some offer flashlight options after dark. Here are a few popular mazes within easy driving distance.

BACK HOME ON THE FARM Aug. 30–Nov. 1. Monday–Friday, 3:00–7:00pm; Saturday, 10:00am–6:00pm; Sunday, noon– 6:00pm. Corn maze, cow train, wagon rides, barnyard area, pig races, and many more family activities. 2915 Willow Run Road, Harrisonburg, Va. backhome-onthefarm.com BOWLES FARMS Sept. 26–Oct. 31. Saturday and Sunday, 10:00am–6:00pm. A dozen activities, plus Southern Maryland’s largest corn maze. Petting zoo, barrel rides, kids’ slide, and straw maze. 22880 Budds Creek Road, Clements, Md. bowlesfarms.com CELEBRATION FARM Sept. 5–Nov. 1. Friday, 5:00– 10:00pm; Saturday, noon–1:00pm; Sunday, noon–5:00pm. Choose one or all three of the mazes for one price and visit the pick-yourown pumpkin patch. Moonlight Mazes on Friday and Saturday nights. 17638 Garden View Road, Hagerstown, Md. celebrationfarm.org

CHERRY CREST ADVENTURE FARM Through Nov. 7. Open Thursday through Saturday, with flashlight mazes on Friday and Saturday.

Choose from 50 ways to have fun on the farm that appeal to all ages.

Wagon rides, straw bale racer slide, and much more to do. 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, Pa. cherrycrestfarm.com COWS-N-CORN Sept. 19–Oct. 31. Friday, 6:00–9:00pm; Saturday, 10:00am– 9:00pm; Sunday, 11:00am–7:00pm.

Hot dogs and hayrides on Friday nights with corn maze and farm fun all weekend. Old-fashioned barn dance and dinner Sept. 19.

5225 Catlett Road, Midland, Va. cows-n-corn.com LAWYER’S FARM AND MOONLIGHT MAZE Sept.19–Nov. 1. Friday, 5:00–11:00pm; Saturday, 11:00am–11:00pm; Sunday, 11:00am–7:00pm. Enjoy five mazes, two pumpkin cannons, hay rides, and other activities. 13003 Creagerstown Road, Thurmont, Md. lawyersmoonlightmaze.com STONER’S DAIRY FARM AND MAZE Aug.29–Nov.1. Saturday, noon–10:00pm; Sunday, noon– 5:00pm. The season opens with a pig roast and there are flashlight maze events most weekends, with haunted mazes Oct. 24 and 31. The Harvest Farm Festival is Oct. 3, and there are lots of other activities on the farm. 7678 Oellig Road, Mercersburg, Pa. stonersdairyfarm.com

d F IE L D S O F G O L D

From finding corn mazes to 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 Virginia’s central Shenandoah Valley.

The website is set up with maps, an ongoing list of events and activities, a description of what seasonal products are available, and information about farm-to-table restaurants. 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)

Find yourself in a corn maze Making Family Memories at

™

OVER 50 FARM FUN ACTIVITIES, GAMES AND RIDES plus the AMAZING MAIZE MAZE® in the heart of PA Dutch Country

FLASHLIGHT MAZES START SEPT.18

V ISIT

OUR WEBSITE FOR SCHEDULE !

2915 Willow Run Rd. near downtown Harrisonburg, VA

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

Be “A-mazed” Lawyer’s Farm & Moonlight Maze

ON THE FIELDS OF GOLD FARM TRAIL

Come spend a day on the farm with fun for the whole family!

Open Sept. 19th-Nov. 1st

Fri 5pm-11pm • Sat. 11am-11pm • Sun. 11am-7pm

a day on the farm with fun for the whole family! spend Come • 5 Corn Mazes

Open Sept. 19th - Nov. 1st this • 2 Pumpkin Cannons Bring 5pm-12am 12pm-12am Sundays 12pm-7pm •Fridays Pumpkin PatchSaturdays & Hayride! ad to receive •• Hay Maze, Hay Fort, Pedal 5 Corn Mazes COUPON $1 off Cart Track & More!

• 2 Pumpkin Cannons

Family fun on the farm Cows-N-Corn 540-439-4806 cows-n-corn.com 5225 Catlett Rd. Midland, Va. The maze at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm near Lancaster, Pa., is one of many that also offer other family-friendly activities.

Check out the website for special weekend events.

OPEN THRU NOV.7

www.fieldsofgold.org

Ch erry Crest

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

• Pumpkin Patch & Hayride 240-315-8133 • Hay Maze, Hay Fort & More!

LawyersFarm.com

(240) 315-8133 www.LawyersFarm.com

admission Bring this AD to (up to 4 only) receive $1 off admission (up to 4 only)

Corn maze open Sept. 16-Oct 31 Fri. 6-9pm, Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 11am-6pm

Barn Dance Sept. 19!

Enjoy Friday night hot dog, hayride, campfire and corn maze!

Haunted Hollow coming in October! recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 7

travel l ine I carol timblin

What you don’t know about Fox River area will surprise you Here’s a trivia question to ponder: What do Harry Houdini, Edna Ferber, Thomas Edison, Vince Lombardi, and Sen. Joe McCarthy have in common? The answer: They are all associated with Appleton, one of 20 cities in the Fox River area of Wisconsin.

Escape artist Harry Houdini was born March 24, 1874, in Budapest, Hungary, but grew up in Appleton, where his father served as the town’s first rabbi. After the illusionist died on Oct. 31, 1926, his wife held seances on the anniversary of his death for 10 years in hopes of his return.

He never showed up, so the seances ceased.

Edna Ferber, who won a Pulitzer Prize for So Big and also penned Giant, Show Boat, and Cimarron, which all became hit movies, attended high school in Appleton and worked as a reporter at the Appleton Daily Crescent before heading to Milwaukee and then New York.

Thanks to inventor Thomas Edison, the country’s first hydroelectric power station began operations in Appleton on Sept. 10, 1882. The home of H.J. Rogers, a key player in the Appleton Edison Electric Light

W inch ester Tourism

Visitors enjoy one of the concerts that are part of the Patsy Cline Festival in Winchester, Va.

Escape to

CALL FOR YOUR FREE BIKE MAP TODAY!

Company, was also electrified that year and today is open for tours.

The great Vince Lombardi, who coached the Green Bay Packers during the 1960s, has a steakhouse in Appleton that bears his name. Diners are surrounded by the more than 400 items related to Lombardi’s life that are on display at the restaurant.

Sen. Joseph McCarthy, born near Appleton on Nov. 15, 1908, became a national figure for his stance against communism in the 1950s, but his popularity waned after the ArmyMcCarthy Hearings.

Visitors may learn all about Appleton’s celebrities at the History Museum at the Castle, housed in a former Masonic Temple, itself an attraction. Neon: Darkness Electrified, which features more than 30 rare signs from the 1920s through the 1960s, opens Nov. 12 and is one of many special exhibits at the museum.

Another interesting place to see in Appleton is the Paper Discovery Center, which tells the story of paper as a major industry in the Fox Cities. And, don’t miss the glass paperweight exhibit at the BergstromMahler Museum of Glass in nearby Neenah.

Downtown Appleton is also home to the Trout Museum of Art, as well as a number of galleries and art shops, including the Fine Art Studio, where you can create your own art work.

Chocolate and cheese have always been popular in the Fox Cities.

High on visitors’ lists is Wilmar Chocolates, made of local butter, cream, fruit, and honey and handcut, hand-wrapped, and handpacked since 1956. Visitors can even make their own chocolate bars at

Wilmar. And, there’s more to learn about sweets at Vande Walle’s Candies, in business since 1974 and best known for its Heavenly Angelfood Candy.

Another popular stop in Appleton is Simon’s Specialty Cheese, offering a great selection of Wisconsin cheeses, sausages, wines, and beers.

You can see how beers and nonalcoholic beverages are made at the Stone Cellar Brewpub or watch the process of beer making and enjoy lunch at the Appleton Beer Factory.

And, wine lovers might check out Kerrigan Brothers Winery.

If you’re looking for something to do at night, attend an event at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, which hosts state premieres of Broadway shows and well-known music groups.

Time permitting, enjoy a meal at Ione’s Dining Room at Fox Valley Technical College. (foxcities.org)

Around the Mid-Atlantic The annual Patsy Cline Music Festival in Winchester, Va., has a number of free events this year, including a showing of Patsy Cline: Remembering Patsy, Sept. 2 at 6:00pm at the Handley Regional Library Auditorium. There also will be musical performances at the Apple Blossom Mall on Sept. 4, 3:00–8:30pm, and a block party featuring entertainment, vendors, and tours of the Patsy Cline House, 608 S. Kent St., on Sept. 5, 10:00am–3:00pm.

There also are ticketed events during the festival. The Patsy Cline Music Festival Dance, featuring the Robbie Limon Band, will be held at the Best Western Lee-Jackson Inn on Sept. 5. And, at Jim Barnett Park,

Shenandoah River Outfitters

Call 800-6CANOE2 or www.shenandoahriver.com 6502 S. Page Valley Road Luray, VA 22835

Plan your Fall and Winter Cabin get-aways

k Canoe, kayath and Raft for ! e Fall colors EASTON

•

OXFORD

•

S T. M I C H A E L S

•

Canoes and kayaks for sale

TILGHMAN ISLAND

Short drive, long memories. 410-770-8000 | TourTalbot.org 8 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Come Play on the River with us!

enjoy the Rockin’ in the Park concert, featuring The Drifters, Bill Haley’s Comets, and the Texas Chainsaw Horns. Tickets are available at the Patsy Cline Historic House, G & M Music, and Winchester-Frederick County Visitors Center. (540662-5555, visitwinchester.com) The Virginia Historical Society in Richmond will host Dressing Downton: Changing Fashion for Changing Times in its newly created exhibition space. Sponsored by the Altria Group, the exhibit, which begins in October and runs through JanuSpend anand afternoon cyclingfrom the ary, features 35 costumes accessories along winding country roads PBS show Downton Abbey. or exploring scenic, forested “We are excited to have Altria Group sponsor paths at Tuckahoe State Park. this nationally touring exhibition of Downton Abbey costumes,” said Paul Levengood, president and CEO of the Virginia Historical Society. “There are many real-life American connections to Downton

Abbey, and this exhibition complements the VHS mission to bring our history to life.

“During the late 19th century, and right up to the outbreak of World War I, hundreds of American women visited England and Europe hoping to marry aristocrats. The series character Lady Cora, the Countess of Grantham, is one such American woman.”

The exhibition and the two major exhibitions that follow it are part of the society’s $38 million The Story of Virginia Campaign. (vahistorical.org) Cass Scenic Railroad and State Park in West Virginia has some exciting rail trips during the month of September. Night with the Stars, Sept. 12 at 6:00pm, is a nighttime excursion with departures from Cass, Cheat Bridge, and Elkins to Spruce.

Under the guidance of National Radio Astronomy Observatory staff members, train riders get to

study the stars with telescopes. And, on Steam Weekend, Sept. 19–20, visitors can celebrate geared logging locomotive history with two roundtrip departures from Whittaker Station and one departure from Cass to Bald Knob.

And, if you don’t take the vintage train, you’ll find a number of other events to enjoy in the area at the end of this month, including the Freefall Festival, Sept. 25–27, at Snowshoe Mountain; the Autumn Harvest Festival, Sept. 26. in Marlinton; the RoadKill Cook-off, Sept. 26, in Marlinton; the Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch and Picnic, Sept. 26 in Spruce; Cass Harvest Day, Sept. 26, at the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park; and Cranberry Shindig, Sept. 27, at Cranberry Mountain. (cassrailroad. com)

travel line

MARYLAND

MARYLAND

MARYLAND

continued on page 31

MARYLAND

Play & Stay H O TE L PAC K AG E Overnight Accommodations $25 Game Play 2 Drink Vouchers $25 Resort Voucher

VACATION RENTALS

Indoor Private Pools, Hot Tubs, Pet Friendly Less then 3 hours from Baltimore & DC

September 12, 2015

Noon - 6 PM Garrett County Fairgrounds

Join us in the breathtaking mountain setting of Western Maryland for our 11th annual event!

Local & Regional Artisans Over 200 Maryland, National & International Wines for Tasting & Purchase.

Silent Auction, Live Entertainment, Food & Fun! Weekend Lodging Packages Buy your tickets online & save!

Caroline County is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Spend an afternoon cycling along winding country roads or exploring scenic, forested pathsways.

www.DeepCreekWineFest.com For our FREE Cycling Guide, call 410-479-0655.

TTourCaroline.com

MARYLAND

CBResortSpa.com 410.832.4810

NEW JERSEY

ONLY 1 HOUR FROM DC/BALT BELTWAYS!

866-351-1119

www.DeepCreekVacations.com

DeepCreekWineFest.com

VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA

• Canoe • Kayak • Tube

Near Historic Harpers Ferry, WV

Near Front Royal, VA on the legendary Shenandoah River

www.RiverandTrail.com

•

888-491-6615

•

800-338-1963 www.downriver.com

Just an hour off the Beltway. recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 9

p ennsy l vania I d aina sava ge

Eat, drink, and be merry in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Marvi n B ond

While you’re waiting to create your own ice cream flavor at the Turkey Hill Experience, explore the exhibits, like this original dairy delivery truck.

There’s no better time to delight in Lancaster County’s bounty than early autumn. Plentiful harvests yield piles of colorful produce at roadside farm stands and farmers markets, are a cause celeb at local wineries and breweries, and keep jam kitchens busy preserving the tastes of summer. All this makes a Lancaster weekend getaway a time to delight in the delicious flavors of the season.

The region is a feast for the senses, from the lush landscape to be explored by bicycle or Amish buggy or even hot air balloon, to the wealth of artisans and craftspeople showcasing their wares in quilt and furniture shops, craft shows, and art galleries.

Couples delight in the simple pleasures of poking around the region’s picturesque towns, strolling the shop-filled streets and sampling the local delicacies.

And with cornfields stretched to their highest heights, the county is not only a patchwork of green, but the verdant fields also make for a puzzling challenge as visitors attempt to navigate Cherry Crest Adventure Farm’s corn maze or engage in any of the 50 farm-themed activities.

Beginning a weekend adventure with a Friday night celebration in Lancaster City or one of the county’s small towns is a great way to get a lay of the land.

The city of Lancaster hosts both a First Friday art gallery and restaurant event as well as a Music Friday event on the third Friday of each month. Both are a glimpse into the hip culture scene that lands Lancaster at the top of livable city lists.

Arriving on a second Friday? Head to the chocolate-pretzel-beer town of Lititz, voted one of American’s coolest small towns. The Second Friday festivities feature the town’s tastiest restaurants, funkiest galleries, and sweetest shops. On a fourth Friday, Columbia is the place to be, with its plethora of antique shops and art showcases.

Ch erry Crest

SEPTEMBER ICE CREAM SUNDAYS Every Sunday in September Noon - 3pm

THE WOOL FROLIC

Just one of a jillion flavors you can create, taste, and make a commercial for at the Turkey Hill Experience.

Place your reservation and buy tickets now at TurkeyHillExperience.com.

Saturday, September 19th 10am-4pm

HARVEST DAYS FESTIVAL

Columbia Exit of Rt. 30, 301 Linden Street, Columbia, PA 17512 1-844-VISIT-TH (1-844-847-4884)

Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11 11am-5pm

LANDIS VALLEY VILLAGE & FARM MUSEUM Located in scenic Lancaster, PA

www.landisvalleymuseum.org

©2015 Turkey Hill Dairy

10 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

All ages can enjoy the Straw Bale Racer at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm.

Town events mark the fall season Each of these towns also will be hosting special events this fall. The annual Fall Artwalk in downtown Lancaster, Oct. 3–4, is a self-guided stroll of more than 100 galleries, museums, and shops that has been a favorite for 50 years. The annual Lititz Craft Beer Fest on Sept. 27 features a homebrew championship contest and more than 100 different craft beers from more than 50 local, regional, and national breweries.

And, the annual Bridge Bust in Columbia on Oct. 3 is a unique event where more than 300 arts and crafts vendors line the historic ColumbiaWrightsville Bridge over the Susquehanna River. This year, Columbia also will host a Fall Feast and Biergarten event Oct. 24, featuring dozens of food trucks.

No visit to Lancaster County is complete without carrying the best flavors home. If you come for a weekend, make a trip to Central Market the Saturday morning priority. For weekend visitors, Saturdays are also great days to explore the

county’s roadside farm stands, or to visit the preserved delights of Kitchen Kettle Village in the hamlet of Intercourse. Note that these destinations are all closed on Sundays.

To learn more about the area’s Amish heritage, be sure to visit The Amish Farm & House, which also offers van tours of the area, and The Amish Village with its one-room school and other elements of Amish life.

Saturday afternoons and evenings are made for tastings. The region boasts a number of craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery.

Many, like Waltz, Grandview, and Nissley, offer tours and have tasting rooms. Some wineries also feature concerts in the vineyards. And, for fans of Elizabethan England, the Mount Hope Vineyard even hosts the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire on its grounds.

Among the many lodging options is the Eden Resort, with more than 300 rooms and suites, restaurants, and onsite activities — it even has a “reconnect” package for couples.

The Fulton Steamboat Inn is among

the most unusual of Lancaster accommodations and offers nautical or Victorian-themed rooms, as well as Huckleberry’s Restaurant and Tavern.

Sundays in Lancaster County are made for brunches, which offer a chance to delight in a farm-to-table experience at many local eateries.

Burn off those calories with a hike or bike in the county’s extensive nature preserves and parks, or paddle

#

1

NOW.

301 guest rooms including 160 one-, two- & three-bedroom suites 2 on-site restaurants & lounge and Lancaster’s #1 Sunday Brunch!

■ 3 pools: heated indoor and outdoor pools and children’s pool, outdoor recreation complex including Kidz Water Zone and much more ■ Great central location ■

.com

Kids’ playground Serene landscaping with koi pond and fire pit ■ Located in the middle of attractions, shops and farmlands ■ ■

3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Rt. 340, Intercourse, PA • (800)732-3538 kitchenkettle.com

Route 896, Strasburg, PA 17579 717-687-8511 • TheAmishVillage.net GPS Address: 199 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572

play

222 Eden Road, Lancaster, PA 717-569-6444 www.EdenResort.com Virtual Tours. Area Events. Reservations.

Top-Rated Hotel on

EXPERIENCE OVER 42 UNIQUE SHOPS, RESTAURANTS & LODGING

RecreationNews

&

■

live.

Discover Autumn in Amish Country

Lancaster Co. Tourism: discoverlancaster.com

Voted Lancaster’s Favorite Hotel...

Again & Again!

97 Victorian and nauticalthemed guest rooms ■ On-site restaurant and tavern ■ Heated indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center and game room

do...

For more information

2 perfect places to stay

■

play.

down the Conestoga or Susquehanna rivers. With your workout done, before you head home, be sure and stop by the Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia to design your own ice cream flavor — maybe something to celebrate the season. Pumpkin Pie, anyone?

tripadvisor

®

At The Corner Of Rt 30 & Rt 896 Lancaster, PA (Across from Rockvale Outlets)

717-299-9999 FultonSteamboatInn.com

Lancaster: Arts, Amish, and More!

From the fall harvest to wedding season, autumn is an active time in PA Dutch Country.

Visit The Amish Village for an authentic experience of this scenic time of year.

• Farmhouse and Village Grounds Tours • Backroads Bus Tours • One-room schoolhouse • Barn with farm animals • Authentic Amish crafts

Icons that use corporate color builds. These can be used providing the colors aren’t too distracting in the design.

As an alternative, the icons can be shown in color, but in monochromatic form. In this case, we can change the color to whatever works best with the design of the piece.

Icons to use for black & white reproduction. These are shown in 60% of black, but the screen could be changed to work best with the design.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 11 If you choose to alter the colors in this file for use in a specific document, please do a “SAVE AS” so this file remains unchanged.

p ennsy l vania I matth ew grah am

Spend a wet weekend having fun in the Wilkes-Barre area K aren Carra

Anyone who has ever traveled north on I-83 through Pennsylvania has probably driven right by WilkesBarre without a second thought. The exit is just before the conglomera-

tion of highways that come together in Scranton. The city is so close to Scranton, it can easily be confused as a suburb of the setting for the television show The Office. However,

K aren Carra

Splash in the pool at the Ricketts Glen waterfall.

PICK YOUR DESTINATIONS ... SEND THE FORM ... GET FREE INFO! ❑ Allegheny Nat. Forest of PA ❑ American Civil War Museum ❑ American Shakespeare Center ❑ Amish Farm & House ❑ Back Home on the Farm ❑ Bath County, VA ❑ Beach Getaways ❑ Berkeley County, WV ❑ Blue Ridge Folklife Festival ❑ Boardwalk Plaza Hotel ❑ Cabin Rentals ❑ Canaan Valley Resort, WV ❑ Cape May, NJ ❑ Capon Springs & Farms ❑ Caroline County, MD ❑ Carroll County, MD ❑ Cherry Crest Adventure Farm ❑ Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel ❑ Chesapeake Bay Lighthouse Tours ❑ Chesapeake Beach Hotel & Spa ❑ Chesapeake Shakespeare ❑ Chesapeake, VA ❑ Chestertown RiverArts ❑ Clarion Hotel, Shepherstown, WV ❑ Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel ❑ Coastal VA ❑ Colonial Beach ❑ Country Road Cabins ❑ Cruises ❑ Cruising from Baltimore ❑ Delaware Getaways ❑ Dogfish Head Craft Brewery ❑ Downriver Canoe ❑ Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad ❑ Dutch Wonderland ❑ Eastern Shore of MD ❑ Eastern Shore of VA ❑ Family Getaways ❑ Fauquier County, VA

❑ Flag Ponds Nature Park ❑ Franklin County, PA ❑ Franklin County, VA ❑ Front Royal Canoe Company ❑ Galax, VA ❑ Garrett County, MD ❑ Georgetown, DE ❑ Grant County, WV ❑ Hampton, VA ❑ Harrisonburg, VA ❑ Harvester Performance Center ❑ Hemlock Haven, WV ❑ Historic Getaways ❑ Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum ❑ Kitchen Kettle Village ❑ Landis Valley Museum ❑ Lawyer’s Farm ❑ Lewes, DE ❑ Lewis County, WV ❑ LTD Vacations ❑ Luray Caverns Golf ❑ Luray, VA ❑ Luzerne County, PA ❑ Marion County, WV ❑ Martinsburg, WV ❑ Maryland Getaways ❑ Mecklenburg County, VA ❑ Morgantown, WV ❑ Mountain Getaways ❑ Navy Gateway Inns and Suites, Dahlgren ❑ Nelson County, VA ❑ Newport News, VA ❑ Norfolk, VA ❑ Northern Neck of VA ❑ Ocean City, MD ❑ Outdoor Getaways ❑ Page County, VA ❑ Pennsylvania Getaways ❑ Posey Thisisit Llama Farm ❑ Potomac Eagle Scenic Rides ❑ Randolph County, WV

❑ Ranson, WV ❑ Rehoboth Beach, DE ❑ River & Trail Outfitters ❑ Romantic Getaways ❑ Shenandoah River Outfitters ❑ Shenandoah Valley Trout Unlimited ❑ Shepherdstown, WV ❑ Smith Island Cruises ❑ Smith Mountain Lake, VA ❑ Southern Delaware ❑ Southern Maryland ❑ Stratford Hall Plantation ❑ Summersville, WV ❑ Surratt House Museum ❑ Talbot County MD ❑ Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations ❑ The Amish Village ❑ The Founders Inn, Virginia Beach ❑ The James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library ❑ The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort ❑ The Mariner’s Museum ❑ The Menokin Foundation ❑ The Woods ❑ Tides Inn ❑ Tidewater Area of VA ❑ Tucker County, WV ❑ Turkey Hill Experience ❑ Upshur County, WV ❑ Virginia Getaways ❑ Virginia State Parks ❑ VMI Museum ❑ West Virginia Getaways ❑ West Virginia State parks ❑ Westmoreland County, VA ❑ Wetzel County, WV ❑ Wisp Resort ❑ Woodloch Pines ❑ Wytheville, VA ❑ Send all the brochures!

Enter to WIN one of our GREAT PRIZES!!! Contest details on page 24.

Your Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________State: __________ Zip: _________________

The Adams Waterfall is one of 21 you can see on a 4.4-mile hike.

Fall is Fabulous

in Franklin County

September 26

Mercersburg Townfest 9am-3pm

October 3

Waynesboro Market Day 9am-4pm

www.mercersburgtownfest.com

www.mainstreetwaynesboro.org

Mercersburg Beer & Wine Festival 12:30pm-4:00pm

October 10

www.mercersburgbeerand winefestival.com

Apple Festival at Tayamentasachta 9am-3pm

Stoners Fall Corn Maze Weekends Aug. 29-Nov. 1

October 17 Chambersburg AppleFest 9am-4pm

October 24-25 Whitetail Resort Great Outdoor Festival 10am-5pm www.skiwhitetail.com

www.stonersdairyfarm.com

Email: _____________________________________________________________________________

Check here  to “Go Green” (we’ll send you information by email) OR MAIL form to: RecNews Reader Info, 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 OR FAX form to: 410-638-6902 ... OR EMAIL form to: publisher@RecreationNews.com

12 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

866-646-8060 | ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com | Facebook.com/FCVBen

Wilkes-Barre, Pa., is a unique small town with a beautiful main street, a lively arts community, and wonderful shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Just three-and-one-half-hours from Washington, D.C., and even closer to Baltimore, Wilkes-Barre makes for a perfect weekend getaway — especially for those who like their fun on the water. The town is situated on the majestic Susquehanna River, which runs 476 miles through New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay. To get the most out of this scenic waterway, take a tour with Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals. The company offers kayak and canoe rentals and a variety of tours, ranging from two-hour mini-excursions to half-day and full-day trips and overnight 15-mile-long kayak and camping adventures.

On the 5-mile Kayak Wine Tour, you start at one of the most serene sections of the river. The calm flowing water winds along forested cliffs where eagles and raptors soar. Blue heron wade along the riverbank hunting for fish. Turtles bask on rocks in the sun. The three-hour paddling journey passes small islands where the water runs a little faster, and ends at a paved boat ramp allowing for an easy exit. From here, paddlers are shuttled back to their cars — after stopping for a tasting at Bartolai Winery.

The winery features a dozen wines made using traditional methods handed down through four generations of Italian winemakers. It also sells a variety of pastas and sauces, cheeses, and amazingly delicious cold-pressed olive oils. The entertaining owners will guide you through the tasting with stories about the history of the wines and winery.

K aren Carra

Among the water adventures in Wilkes-Barre are kayak tours on the Susquehanna River.

LUZERNE

COUNTY

Events

Luzerne County Fair Funfest Weekend Haunted Lantern Tours

You'll find it all right here in Northeast PA!!

More wet fun For even more wet fun, kayaks and canoes are available for rent at several state parks, including the 165-acre lake at Francis Slocum State Park and the 245-acre lake at Ricketts Glen Park, which also feature a 600-foot-long swimming beach. Ricketts Glen is also renowned for its waterfalls — 24 of them!

A 4.4-mile hike allows access to 21 of the waterfalls, which range in height from 11 feet to nearly 100 feet. Sit under the torrents of water, swim in the catch pools, and even jump from a small cliff into one of the deeper pools. It is undoubtedly one of the most fun ways to spend a hot day and should be on your bucket list.

Start the hike by following the Highland Trail for almost a mile before turning south onto the Falls Trail down the Glen Leigh to frolic in eight of the falls. Continue south after the Waters Meet, where two streams converge, to see three more waterfalls. Then, return uphill and bear left at the confluence of the creeks and up the Ganoga Glen to explore the remaining cascades and complete the loop.

To simply enjoy the view of the Susquehanna, take a stroll along the new River Common Park in the center of Wilkes-Barre. The park includes treelined paved pathways, a fishing pier, an amphitheater, gardens, and a wide array of places to kick back and take in the beauty of this charming town on the river.

And, don’t forget Fido. The Best Western Genetti Hotel in Wilkes-Barre is pet-friendly, allowing two pets in limited rooms for an additional $15 per night.

For more information Luzerne Co. Tourism: tournepa.com

ure h c o r B e Fre

Spend some time in Luzerne County ountyy

enjoying outdoor recreation in our picturesque parks, lakes and rivers.

New this season is Wilkes-Barre Bike Share; a free bike program for visitors to explore downtown Wilkes-Barre, thee River Common and nearby communities. Find out why Luzerne County has been named "Official Best of Outdoor Recreation" ...order your fall foliage driving tour brochure.

Fall Events Visit .to w w w .t o u r ne p a.co m o r call 888.9 05.2 87 2 recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 13

p ennsy l vania I staf f

The special gifts of Kinzua bring spectacular fall activities Exploring sites named “Kinzua” within the Allegheny National Forest of northwestern Pennsylvania brings outdoor adventure and history to-

gether. Late summer and early fall are beautiful times of the year to explore this region as prime fall color adds to the beauty during the last

A llegh eny N ational F orest R egion

two weeks of September and the first two weeks of October.

Kinzua is a word from the Seneca Tribe of Native Americans which translates as “fish on a spear” or “land of many fishes.” Today, the word Kinzua, pronounced “Kin-zoo,” is used in the name of many of the area’s natural and manmade attractions.

Kinzua Gorge is located in the Allegheny Plateau near the village of Mount Jewett, Pa. Its narrow valleys and steep ridges have their own mystique, changing moods with the passing clouds.

European settlers gave these places colorful names such as Thundershower, Kettle Creek, and Young Woman’s Run. Or, they simply adopted the names the natives had given them: Susquehanna, Tionesta, Tunungwant, and Kinzua.

Kinzua Creek rises, tea-colored, near the village of Cyclone in McKean County and flows westward for 26 miles where it empties into the Allegheny (Kinzua) Reservoir. The Kinzua Valley was formerly part of the homelands of the Seneca Nation, one of the six tribes of the powerful Iroquois Confederation. Before

The river winds through its namesake Allegheny National Forest.

Allegheny National Forest Region You’re on the Trail to Something Big! Fall is Bigger Here

Enjoy the amazing vistas of brilliant fall color from the Kinzua Sky Walk.

Plan a relaxing getaway; tour a winery, take a hike, or cruise scenic Route 6 and the Longhouse National Scenic Byway to enjoy the beautiful fall colors of scarlet, orange and gold.

A llegh eny N ational F orest R egion

Water sports, from kayaking to fishing, are popular at the Allegheny Reservoir.

live. play.

Free Scenic Driving Tour Brochure with 7 tours and map.

Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau

800-473-9370 visitANF.com

14 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

do...

RecreationNews

.com

the sale of those lands at the second Treaty of Fort Stanwix in 1784, few Europeans had ventured into the remote valley. Yet less than 100 years after Chief Cornplanter and other Seneca leaders signed the treaty, the first Kinzua Viaduct, built of iron, spanned its precipitous gorge.

Kinzua Bridge State Park Both Kinzua Gorge and Kinzua Creek can be viewed and hiked at the Kinzua Bridge State Park. The free-admission day-use park offers picnic tables, hiking trails, and the amazing Kinzua Sky Walk, built on the historic towers of the Kinzua Viaduct. The park is accessed by the Kinzua Bridge Scenic Byway (Lindholm Road on a GPS unit), along which you have a very good chance of seeing wild turkey or white-tailed deer.

The Kinzua Sky Walk reaches out 624 feet into the Kinzua Gorge. It

has an amazing 300-foot-high overlook with a partial glass floor from which you have a 360-degree view of the Kinzua Gorge. The skywalk is built on the original six towers of the Kinzua Viaduct, commonly called the Kinzua Bridge, which was the highest and longest railroad viaduct in the world until a tornado in 2003 toppled 11 of its towers. Visitors can hike a trail down the side of the gorge at the Kinzua Bridge State Park to view the fallen towers and to fish the stream.

The Kinzua Dam holds back the waters of the Allegheny (Kinzua) Reservoir and is one of the largest dams east of the Mississippi River.

The reservoir stretches from Pennsylvania into New York and is perfect for kayaking, sailing, fishing, or motorized boating.

Although a little complicated for licensing (you need a Pennsylvania, New York, or Seneca Nation license depending on your location) the A llegh eny N ational F orest R egion

12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir offers world-class fishing for walleye, bass, muskie, and catfish. Red Bridge Campground is located along Route 321, just north of where Kinzua Creek enters the reservoir, and is a favorite for those seeking to fish the “the land of big fishes.”

Nearby is Paul’s Trading Post, where you can buy a fishing license

and supplies, plus have a chance to speak to the locals who routinely fish the local streams and the reservoir.

A free Allegheny National Forest Visitors Guide with recreation maps, trail information, and information on hotels, lodging, camping, attractions, and restaurants is available by calling 800-473-9370 or at visitanf.com.

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

410.535.5327

Hiking Trails Picnicking Education Programs Interpretive Exhibits

Kings Landing Park Canoe & Kayak Access Group Camping & Facilities

Flag Ponds Nature Park Chesapeake Bay Beach and Fossil Hunting

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary The Kinzua Bridge Skywalk offers panoramic views of the gorge and the earlier railroad bridge trestles that were twisted by a tornado.

Choose

Find us in the National/ International Unaffiliated Section of the CFC booklet

share yo

s! on

etest destin e at tw i r u

Trails Through a Bald Cypress Swamp

in the Combined Federal Campaign!

follow us

The CFC is the only campaign authorized to solicit and collect contributions from federal employees in the workplace on behalf of charitable organizations.

@recnewstweet CFC #11872 www.nrafoundation.org

NRA CIVIL RIGHTS DEFENSE FUND

CFC #10006

www.nradefensefund.org

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 15

RUISE

c

orner

c

m ich el l e &

k arl teel

TaKe a ‘Cullenary’ cruise to some beautiful Mediterranean ports Caribbean cruise? Alaska or New England cruise? Mediterranean or other European cruise?

Sometimes, the choice isn’t about which destination, or which ship, but about who’s on board and what to do.

Recently, we wrote about reunion cruises.

There’s still another twist to consider: the themed cruise. After all, vacations and cruising are often about discovering new experiences, as well as new places. We’ve seen cruises centered around a genre of music, dancing, cooking, singles, couples, collectors of all kinds, and enthusiasts of just about every avenue of interest. These cruises include not just people with a common interest, but a collection of classes, seminars, and activities, as well.

We have several interests we like to explore on cruises, including wine, food, and music.

Wine! We enjoy visiting vineyards around the world, enjoy hearing knowledgeable speakers, and, of course, enjoy good wine — especially when paired with good food.

And, that’s another delight. Not just the great food you’ve come to expect on a ship, but culinary delights. Not only do we love foods that tantalize the taste buds, but we also enjoy learning the techniques of preparing it and learning why certain foods work so well with the right spices and combinations.

We also love classic rock ‘n’ roll, the music that reminds us of the happy days of youthful discovery and exuberance. All cruises are replete with musical entertainment, but themed cruises go all out on certain genres.

Perhaps the best cruise we’ve ever taken combined food, wine, and music.

We rocked to the music of Bad Company in our younger days. Paul Cullen, who was the group’s bass player for a good chunk of time, found a new life after music, trying his hand at his own line of wines and becoming a gourmet chef. His musical taste, like ours, evolved from classic rock, which we still love, to talented jazzy guitar, which we now prefer. Paul now does a lot of private events where he’ll cook for you, pour fantastic wines, and play beautiful guitar music. It was only natural for him to host a cruise focused on gourmet foods, ideal

wine pairings, and great music, adding another dimension. And, as it turns out, this cruise, featuring Paul Cullen, is being repeated, for the most part, in October.

In addition to Paul’s seminars on wine and cooking and his interaction with the chefs (for groupspecific gourmet meals paired with his selection of wines), you learn to appreciate these culinary delights by going on tours of vineyards, often tasting the wines you’ll be consuming that night.

There is still time to book a cabin on this outstanding cruise experience, which will surely raise the bar for all of your future cruises.

The cruise line, Oceania, is one of the most luxurious cruise lines to travel aboard. The ports of call include some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful and glamorous cities, including Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Monte Carlo, and Portofino, Italy. The scenery is stunningly beautiful and the touring is fun-filled because it exciting and relaxing at the same time.

Traveling with Paul and his lovely wife, Bonnie, creates an instant sense of belonging to a group of people who are all ready and willing to make

Smith Island Cruises

lasting memories and create bonds that will last a lifetime.

Paul has a background of experience and knowledge in traveling throughout Europe, making friends there, and discovering the best food and wine experiences, all of which he loves to share with those lucky enough to participate.

His love of wine, music, and food shines through all of the custom excursions and events that are planned.

We took this cruise last autumn with family and the Cullens. Some of our most treasured memories include: ◆ Walking through the cobblestone streets of Barcelona, taking in the wide variety of beautiful scenery, interesting shops, fascinating architecture, and delicious food, which made it one of the best cities we have ever visited. We are determined to return to this very affordable European city. ◆ Strolling through Monte Carlo, which deserves its glamorous reputation for being a destination of the rich and famous. Walking by the harbor, we ogled the biggest luxury yachts in

K arl Teel

The luxurious amenities on the Oceania line are matched in excellence by the scenery, such as Monte Carlo in the background.

DAY TRIP: Thurs. thru Sun. - departing at 10:30 a.m. from Point Lookout State Park - $40 per person OR 2- OR 3-DAY PACKAGES starting at $375 per couple visiting Smith Island, Crisfield and Tangier Island.

Package Available: Any Thursday thru Saturday night.

Includes: Cruise, Accommodations in Crisfield, Dinner at Chesapeake Crabhouse and Breakfast.

LIMITED SPACE • RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

410-425-2771 • smithislandcruises.com

DISCOUNT CRUISES, RESORTS & TOURS ur no w o ite! e l *N ebs Too W ide r u n lf-G ou Se to Y acatio V t x Ne

Fast, Free Service

Call us! 800-285-2786

www.ambassadorcruises.com

16 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

the world, watched very expensive cars cruise by, strolled through lush palace gardens, and tippy-toed into the world-famous Paris Casino, all the while looking for celebrities and James Bond. ◆ Seduced by the scenery of green rolling hills and vineyards, Paul and Bonnie took us on an exclusive, amazing tour of Tuscany that included touring two phenomenal wineries. We tasted wonderful Italian wines and dined with a handsome count who welcomed us to his luxurious hilltop villa surrounded by rows and rows of his vineyards. All the while, Paul’s beautiful guitar music flowed around us.

Additional ports of call on this

upcoming cruise include Marseilles, France, and Cinque Terre, Italy. In the ports of Marseilles, Portofino, or Livorno, Italy, join Paul and Bonnie on exclusive custom shore excursions to their favorite wineries in Italy and France.

While on board, in addition to the delicious food and many enjoyable activities and entertainment included, you will experience a multi-course dinner in Wine Spectator’s La Reserve restaurant, with Paul playing light pre-dinner music, making the evening even more pleasurable.

The cruise package includes: â—† Round-trip flights from Philadelphia to Europe

• out ern

edition 14 Lighthouses

- 2 Days - Overnight Onancock, VA August 8 & 9 • un et Crui e with 2 Lighthouses • al ay on the Bay with 5 Lighthouses • Full ay Crui e with 10 Lighthouses

• Nort ern

edition

â—† One-night pre-cruise hotel in Barcelona â—† Seven-night cruise â—† Transfers abroad â—† All port charges and taxes â—† Two private music and wine events onboard â—† Dinner in La Reserve with Paul, Bonnie, and the group

Boating for Beginners!

We offer experienced assistance with: • Boat selection – tailored to your needs • Professional ďŹ nance, insurance & titling process • Sea trial on YOUR boat for basic maneuvers • How to tie lines & dock • Basic safety & navigation • Basic trailering (if needed) • Suggested sites & events for fun on the water • Boater safety education & help with certiďŹ cation • Discounts on slip & rack storage – up to 20%

O

O

O

O

O

O

2 015 T u rk ey P oint R d . , E ssex 4 10-6 8 7 -2 000 b al tim oreb oatingcenter. com

Safety Net

O

CareerGuardŽ Professional Liability Insurance: • Choice of $1,000,000 or $2,000,000 liability coverage for lawsuits. • Up to $200,000 for legal representation for agency investigations and, disciplinary proceedings, including internal agency appeals procedures, the Merit Systems Protection Board or even the U.S. District Court.

O

O

O

O

O

Protect your job and your pension for as little as $11.00 per pay period.

O

Shop all major powerboat manufacturers Climb aboard hundreds of boats including the latest center consoles & trawlers Tour brokerage boats available for immediate sale in Brokerage Cove Browse miles of docks & acres of exhibits Purchase boating products, navigation equipment, fishing gear, clothing & accessories Demo Dock Free seminars Valuable door prizes O

Birthday

F u l l S ervice M arina at B al tim ore B oating C enter

Your Shop all major sailboat manufacturers Browse miles of docks & acres of exhibits Tour brokerage boats available for immediate sale in Brokerage Cove Marvel at the nation’s largest multihull selection Participate in First Sailing Workshops, Take the Wheel & Cruisers University Plan your holiday in Vacation BasinŽ Free seminars Live entertainment Food & drink tastings Valuable door prizes

50th

Your fun is our family business since 1965.

& (% & #%& (& (#&( && ( ( $"' " " % $#' &

O

Happy

• $50 Gift CertiďŹ cate to our Fully Stocked Marine Store

O

continued on page 31

Baltimore Boating Center

with 10 Lighthouses

O

◆ Bon Appetit cooking class with Paul and Bonnie ◆ Optional shore excursions hosted by Paul The “Cullenary� Cruise, filled with music, wine, and fantastic food is scheduled from Oct. 21–30. Don’t

O

SCAN FOR TICKETS & CHANCE TO WIN VALUABLE PRIZES

S can our Q R y our smart ph one to v isit our website:

cod e with

F or m ore inf orm ation, visit career-gu ard . com or cal l 1-8 00-2 2 1-3 08 3

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 17

Switch to the Sprint Family Share Pack.

Switch to Sprint and get 4 lines with unlimited talk, text and 10GB of highspeed data to share, all while on the Sprint network, for less than $100/mo. after we waive the access charge.

Compare for yourself.

That’s more than double the data of T-Mobile. And to get this much data, you’d have to pay $40 more a month at Verizon and $60 more a month at AT&T. All on the Sprint network.

Sprint

Verizon

AT&T

T-Mobile

4 lines 10GB $85

4 lines 10GB $140

4 lines 10GB $160

4 lines 1GB $100

High-speed shared data

/mo.

Sprint Advantage

High-speed shared data

/mo.

High-speed shared data w/Rollover

/mo.

$ 660

/yr.

savings with Sprint

$900

/yr.

savings with Sprint

High-speed per line /mo.

Get more than double the data with Sprint

All pricing and data allowances above are per month. Other monthly charges apply.** Sprint price after waived access charge and SDP discount of 15 % is applied to $100 monthly data charge.

T-Mobile's Simple Choice customers are slowed up to 2G speeds after 1GB/line. Comparing to family plans. Competitor plans may be discountable. Other data price options available. Competitor plans include music, int'l text/data features, data carry over tethering and cloud options. See carrier websites for details.

Need more data? For just $ 17 that’s 40GB to share! After SDP discount of

00

per month more, you can quadruple your data –

15 % is applied on monthly data charge. Other monthly charges apply.**

Stuck with your carrier? Not anymore.

We’ll pay off your contract and whatever you owe on your phone via American Express® Reward Card. Just switch to Sprint and turn in your current phone. Requires registration at sprint.com/joinsprint.

Hurry! This is a limited time offer.

15

%

Discount for employees of

the Federal Government

Applies to select regularly priced Sprint monthly data service.

Call: 866-639-8354 Visit a local Sprint Store: sprint.com/storelocator

sprint.com/fed

**Monthly charges exclude taxes and Sprint Surcharges [incl. USF charge of up to 17.1% (varies quarterly), up to $2.50 Admin. and 40¢ Reg. /line/mo. and fees by area (approx. 5-20%)]. Surcharges are not taxes. See sprint.com/taxesandfees.

Activ. Fee: $36/line. Credit approval req. Plan: Limited time offer. Includes unlimited domestic Long Distance calling and texting. Data allowance as specified. Third-party content/downloads are add'l charge.

Int'l svcs are not included. Max of 4 phone/tablet/MBB lines available online. Data: Includes 10GB or 40GB of on-network shared data usage and 100MB off-network data usage. Add'l on-network data usage: 1.5¢/MB. Add'l off-network data can be added by opt in only for 25¢/MB for tablets/MBBs. Mobile Hotspot Usage pulls from your shared data and off-network allowances. High Speed data is 3G/4G. Access Charge Waiver: Limited time offer. Access charges waived for as long as customer remains on eligible 10GB/40GB plan. Usage Limitations: To improve data experience for the majority of users, throughput may be limited, varied or reduced on the network. Sprint may terminate service if off-network roaming usage in a month exceeds: (1) 800 min. or a majority of min.; or (2) 100MB or a majority of KB. Prohibited network use rules apply—see sprint.com/termsandconditions. Contract Buy Out Offer: Amount based on ETF (early termination fee) charged or remaining phone balance. Req. active wireless phone line port from other carrier to Sprint; remain active; in good standing & turn in of working hone tied to phone balance or ETF submitted or be charged up to amount of the Reward Card . Register & submit final bill w/ ETF or phone balance within 60 days of switching at sprint.com/joinsprint. Allow 15 days after registration approval for Reward Card arrival. Excludes discounted phones, 100+ Corporate-liable, prepaid & ports made between Sprint or related entities. Reward Card: Terms & conditions apply to Reward Cards. See Cardholder Agreement or visit www.americanexpress.com/sprint for details. Subject to applicable law, a $3/mo. service fee applies beginning in the 7th month after Card issuance. Card is issued by American Express Prepaid Card Management Corporation. American Express is not the sponsor of this promotion.

SDP Discount: Avail. for eligible company employees or org. members (ongoing verification). Discount subject to change according to the company’s/org.’s agreement with Sprint and is avail. upon request for select monthly svc charges. Discount only applies to data svc for Sprint Family Share Pack. Not avail. with no credit check offers or Mobile Hotspot add-on. Other Terms: Offers and coverage not available everywhere or for all phones/networks. No discounts apply to access. May not be combined with other offers. Restrictions apply. See store or sprint.com for details. © 2015 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint N155460 and the logo are trademarks of Sprint. Other marks are the property of their respective owners.

MV1234567

18 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

FROM VIRGINIA WITH LOVE Touring Hampton Roads O Check out the Great Dismal O Virginia Beach surprises See the Eastern Shore like a local O Wythe County views O Tastes of Mecklenburg Preserving mountain folkways O Wine and oysters on the Northern Neck

The Miss Hampton II sails past the Virginia Air & Space Center Courtesy Hampton Tourism

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-1

virginia I marth a steger

Living like the locals: Loving it in Newport News and Hampton Two smaller Hampton Roads cities sit between quieter Williamsburg and noisier Virginia Beach.

Newport News and Hampton have been carving out a niche for economical fun as bases for visiting all of the Hampton Roads area.

sary of the Virginia Living Museum with 50 special events between this September and November 2016. Join the locals who have long appreciated the museum as a home for endangered animals — the bald eagle, red wolf, barking tree frog, and nine others — as well as its use of native wildlife Excitement from bald eagles to heighten awareness of the living world. It is one of only 10 institutions in the U.S. accredited by to a brew house both the American Alliance of Museums and the Newport News is celebrating the 50th anniverAssociation of Zoos and H ampton Tourism Aquariums.

Fall exhibits at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center in Newport News include American Scenery: Different Views in the Hudson River School of Painting, through Oct. 18. This show features 116 luminous landscapes by artists such as Frederic Edwin Church and Jasper Francis Cropsey, who were among the artists working in the Northeast durThe Miss Hampton II sails past the Virginia Air & Space Center on its tour ing the period of 1825 to 1875. of Hampton Roads.

COME FACE-TO-FACE WITH ADVENTURE.

Insider Tip: On view Oct. 30–Jan. 17 will be “Virginia Made,” celebrating contemporary Virginia artisans and their interpretations of traditional crafts. Artworks comprising of woodworking, glass, and ceramics, will be available for holiday gift giving or as memorable souvenirs of this sampling of contemporary Virginia art.

The folks at Endview Plantation are supplementing the attraction’s Civil War history with an emphasis on nature. A new walking trail brochure will highlight the plants and trees of two distinct natural habitats, as well as a natural spring in the stream that bisects it. The trail work is the culmination of more than a year’s effort by scores of volunteers to clear brush, redefine the pathway of the 1/4-mile trail, and identify 40 varieties of trees and plants.

Locals are also looking forward to the opening, in late fall, of Tradition Brewing Company, a 20-barrel brew house in Newport News’ centrally located Oyster Point district. In late June, Ironclad Distillery — which plays off the history of the Battle of the Ironclads for its bourbon brand — began making small-batch whiskey in a new downtown venture housed in a 102-year-old dry goods warehouse. continued on page VA-5

Ships,History Great Outdoors AND

THE

The Mariners’ Museum

Virginia Living Museum

A city with an old soul and youthful enthusiasm, Hampton has been home to unique characters and an adventurous spirit for over 400 years. Discover the attractions, the history and the unique flavor that makes Hampton a city unlike any other.

Explore the Depths

800.800.2202 VisitHampton.com 888.493.7386 ExploreNewportNews.org

VA-2 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

This & more!

Plus Williamsburg & Virginia Beach.

virginia I roland leiser

Check out aircraft carriers and submarines at Norfolk Shipyard As the Victory Rover starts up its engines for a tour of the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, music on the public address system begins with a military march and then changes into big band sounds.

Engines rumble as the vessel heads out into Virginia’s Elizabeth River (named for the sister of King Charles I of England) for a two-hour trip past dry docks, coal piers, loading cranes, and container terminals.

But the payoff is seeing a series of huge warships lined up in the water.

Paddle-wheel ferries shuttle passengers between Portsmouth and the Norfolk dock. From there, it’s a short walk across Town Point Park to board the tour boat outside the Nauticus Museum.

The shipyard’s mission, supported by 9,000 personnel, is to repair and maintain the Navy’s battleships, submarines, destroyers, support craft, and aircraft carriers. Home of our nation’s Atlantic Fleet, Norfolk is also home to one of the world’s largest naval base shipyards. Of the various maintenance facilities, the Navy operates five dry docks and three service piers, but other work is contracted to private companies.

Behind the berthed vessels is a 585-acre land complex for Navy housing, schooling, shopping, and recreation.

As we near the shipyard, the height of loading cranes becomes shorter due to restricted air space.

Net barriers in front of the bows of the berthed ships underscore security concerns. Our captain begins identifying each ship by hull number, firepower capability, and other features.

It’s a seascape of battleship gray.

The captain calls out No. 19, for example, to identify the USS Mesa Verde, an armed troop transport named for the Colorado national park, and No. 77, the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier, the last of the nuclear-powered behemoths. It had been under construction at Newport News during my previous visit.

Overhead, E2C Hawkeyes, early warning aircraft, fly low in the distance.

Board a battleship While you can’t disembark to board any military vessels in the Navy yard, the battleship USS Wisconsin is on display next to the Nauticus Museum and offers an unusual opportunity to visit the huge vessel, which saw service in World War II, the Korean War, and the first Gulf War. Its size — almost as long as eight football fields — boggles the imagination.

An admission charge includes a tour within the ship, but visitors are free to wander around on the deck.

Inside the Nauticus Museum are Navy and maritime exhibits on three floors.

I especially liked the displays on a sailor’s life, off duty and on duty.

Although the facility is named Norfolk Naval Shipyard to avoid confusion with a Navy yard in Portsmouth, Maine, it’s actually located in Portsmouth, Va., and the building that chronicles its history is named the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. The museum features ship models, uniforms, and military artifacts. Equally interesting are the statistics that tell an amazing story of prodigious effort.

During WWII, construction crews built 101 U.S. Navy ships, including the battleship USS Alabama, while others did repair and maintenance work on 6,850 U.S. and allied ships.

The last ship built in the shipyard was completed in the early 1950s.

Victory Rover operates daily from March through December. Passengers may sit in an open-top deck or an enclosed cabin below with snack bar, beer, and wine. Adult tickets

are $22; children 12 and younger are $14. From Hampton, the vessel Miss Hampton II offers a three-hour tour that also covers Norfolk’s massive Navy base.

For more information Victory Rover tours: navalbasecruises.com Norfolk Tourism: visitnorfolktoday.com

Marvi n B ond

Naval ships berthed at the Norfolk Naval Station.

America’s National Maritime Museum and Park

N orf olk Tourism

The Mariners' Museum is filled with fascinating stories, captured in the priceless artifacts that celebrate the spirit of the open sea.

• View maritime art, handcrafted ship models and rare figureheads.

• Hike the Noland Trail or picnic at Lions Bridge overlooking the James River.

• Explore small craft from around the world.

• Discover the USS Monitor Center, home of the Civil War ironclad’s iconic gun turret.

• Experience a 3D film in the Explorers Theater.

MarinersMuseum.org Just 20 minutes from Williamsburg • Newport News, VA • I64 - Exit 248A

Norfolk’s Nauticus museum traces the area’s maritime heritage and includes the battleship Wisconsin.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-3

virginia I roland leiser

The Great Dismal Swamp provides exciting excursions R oland L eiser

The federal government and the Nature Conservancy helped to preserve the Great Dismal Swamp’s important ecosystem.

The Great Dismal Swamp: What a strange name for more than 112,000 acres of real estate.

And, that number doesn’t even include 3,100-acre Lake Drummond, located in the heart of the swamp.

Covering southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina, this huge wildlife haven opens daily for hiking, biking, and bird watching on designated trails.

Organized spring and summer activities include the Birding Festival each April and a butterfly survey for volunteers in July. There are guided nature walks on Sept. 26 and Oct. 3, four-hour swamp safaris between Sept. 4 and Dec. 19, and guided canoe trips on Lake Drummond set to resume this fall at a cost of $35 a person.

Tickets are required for some organized tours. Swamp safaris including snacks and beverages are $10, but only $8 for military

members and seniors; nature walks are $7 and $5. The annual Swamp Stomp, a half-marathon and 5K run along the Dismal Swamp Canal, returns in April 2016.

From Portsmouth, Va., I took a 45-minute drive and toured the swampland in a van on former logging roads with naturalist Penny Lazauskas. Established 41 years ago as a federal property, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is said to be the largest such area in the Mid-Atlantic region, attracting about 90,000 visitors each year.

Insider Tip: For a summer trail visit, bring bug repellent, sunscreen, food, and water.

The wetland’s name comes from early European settlers who thought that the area was “uninhabitable,” thus “dismal,” explained our guide.

Once used as hunting grounds for two native tribes, according to a spokesperson for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, it became a refuge for runaway slaves.

At the entrance to Railroad Ditch

ISN’T IT TIME FOR A LITTLE

U.O.U.

VA-4 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Road, an Underground Railroad Pavilion pays “homage to the slaves,� said Lazauskas. The National Park Service has designated the swamp as part of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Despite its reputation as “uninhabitable,� the fugitives hid in the forest and set up communities. Fortunately for them, hired slave hunters could see only 15 to 20 feet into the swampland’s dense growth.

A town, described as a work camp for logging, actually existed in the Great Dismal Swamp. At one time, there were a half dozen archaeological digs that turned up pieces of pottery and cedar shingles split on the site. Waterfilled ditches along the wetland’s roads were built to drain the area and transport cedar shake shingles on rafts.

The refuge is home to more than 200 species of birds and 90 types of reptiles and amphibians, according to Lazauskas. Handy brochures about the bird species are available online, at trail heads, and at the refuge’s office.

There’s lots of history here, too, as a young George Washington once surveyed part of it. Washington himself first recommended building the canal in 1793.

The land’s last owners had logged the area through the 1960s,

and then donated it to The Nature Conservancy, which deeded it to the government.

During the tour, we stopped at Lake Drummond, where visitors can fish, kayak, or canoe in water only 4 to 6 feet deep, said our guide. The water is tannic-acid stained from deteriorated leaves and cypress trees grow eerily in the lake’s shallow waters.

And, yes, wildlife abounds. Although we failed to see any black bears, there was ample evidence of their presence. The swampland is also the habitat of bobcats, beavers, river otters, coyotes, and deer.

Lazauskas conducts tours for the City of Suffolk and for Nature’s Calling, her own company. Selfdrive tours require permits available at the entrance to monitor vehicle traffic, but there are no entrance fees.

Both the Suffolk, Va., and Chesapeake, Va. tourism sites have information about the Great Dismal Swamp.

For more information Chesapeake Tourism: visitchesapeake.com Refuge information: fws.gov Suffolk Tourism: suffolk-fun.com Nature’s Calling Tours: naturescalling.org

THE FESTY EXPERIENCE

continued from page VA-2

Harbor cruises and the race to space East of Newport News, in nearby Hampton, locals will insist you get an overview of the area via the breezy, narrated harbor cruise on the doubledecked Miss Hampton II. Local working fishing boats contrast with large cargo ships in harbor with the fleet of the world’s largest naval installation, Naval Station Norfolk.

When Miss Hampton II docks, take a spin on the city’s antique carousel before a short walk to the Hampton History Museum, where you experience the city’s timeline — which includes pirate personalities, 17th-century Captain John Smith, and America’s first astronauts — in 10 permanent galleries.

Locals take great pride in their strong connection to the beginning of the Space Age. The Virginia Air & Space Center is the visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base. Featuring “Adventures in Flight� and more than 100 hands-on exhibits, the center also showcases permanent displays of the Apollo 12 command module and Orion, Mercury, and Gemini test capsules. “Space Racers: Adventures in Space Exploration� — an interactive treat for the youngest space cadets in your party — was created with

the help of the animated children’s series, Space Racers.

Hampton University, founded in 1868 and situated close to downtown, has the oldest African-American museum in the U.S. Stroll through the galleries, comprised of more than 9,000 cultural artifacts, as well as traditional and contemporary artworks.

Locals will tell you to visit Fort Monroe National Monument — located on Old Point Comfort, where the Hampton Roads harbor meets the Chesapeake Bay — in the afternoon for an easy transition to dinner and entertainment at the popular Paradise Ocean Club.

The club has been privately developed since the U.S. Army left Fort Monroe four years ago.

The renovated exhibits at Fort Monroe go far beyond the cell where Confederate President Jefferson Davis was held after the Civil War and highlight the fort’s construction, its other roles in the Civil War, and even its connection to Edgar Allan Poe. Insider tip: If you’re heading to other areas of Hampton Roads, locals advise avoiding traffic at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel by exiting I-64 East earlier onto Route 664 and the MonitorMerrimac Bridge-Tunnel.

For more information Newport News Tourism: newport-news.org Hampton Tourism: visithampton.com

LOCKN’ FESTIVAL

IT’S A HA ENING BIG FESTIVALS

Newport News

AND

IN NELSON COUNTY

AWARD-WI ING CRAFT B R IN THE SHADOW OF THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS SEPTEMBER 10-13, 2015 LOCKNFESTIVAL.COM

OCTOBER 9-11, 2015 THE FESTY.COM

CA TO REGISTER FOR A PAIR OF LOCKN’ FESTIVAL TICKETS. 800-282-8223 nelson county VIRGINIA

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-5

virginia I j ane and marvi n bond

Colonial charm and dinosaurs are unexpected treats in Va. Beach Virginia Beach has its familiar miles of sandy oceanfront, motels, and boardwalk, but on our last visit we found two unexpected treats.

Just off I-64 and soon after entering the city limits, we found The Founders Inn & Spa. Its Colonial red-brick architecture might seem decidedly non-beachy, but the four buildings are on a large campus set back from the major roadways, and sit across a pond from similar buildings at Regent University, giving the resort a Williamsburg air.

More than 200 rooms feature a Co-

lonial style with up-to-date amenities and the buildings surround a beautiful formal English garden. The Swan Terrace and Hunt Room restaurants also look out on the garden and pond with its fountain.

If you’re lucky, you’ll meet Abigail, the resident mute swan. We found her at the back of the spa, growing a bit impatient for her bowl to be filled at dinner time. Other times, she was swimming serenely in the pond and posing prettily for pictures.

The inn’s full-service Flowering Marvi n B ond

Almond Spa offers a host of treatments and services, as well as an indoor pool. But the huge outdoor pool and waterslide attracted more visitors. Trees surrounding the pool offered welcome natural shade, an unusual amenity for a pool.

“We offer a free shuttle to the beach, which is about 20 minutes away,” said the inn’s Melissa Georges. “But, many guests get here and discover all they need is right here.”

The Founders Inn also provides two dog parks and has designated pet-friendly rooms so Fido can enjoy the vacation as well.

The inn’s 25,000 square feet of meeting space are separated from the lodging rooms, but secure T1 lines are available for government meetings.

Stroll through the garden, enjoy a drink on the patio, and wander through the antique-filled lobbies.

You won’t regret the time you spend at the Founders Inn. Insider tip: The inn is also a great wedding venue, with indoor and outdoor sites, wonderful food, plenty of rooms for guests, and special suites for the bridal couple.

Check out the dinosaurs

The animatronic dinosaur exhibit at the Virginia Aquarium is one more reason kids love the attraction.

Across town, the Virginia Aquarium is a great family treat on either sunny or rainy days. There are so many possible activities it can be a bit mind-boggling.

Aside from the aquarium’s marine life, there’s the Living Planet area that exhibits wildlife that inhabited Virginia in earlier times, the Marsh exhibit and walkway, touch tanks, and even seasonal dolphin- or whale-watching boat trips.

From large sharks to much smaller marine life, the aquarium’s tanks are an endless variety of color and activity. You’ll see a living coral reef and live coral nursery, as well as a sea turtle nursery. Six turtles were to be released into the wild shortly after our visit.

But what drew us back to the attraction for this visit was a new dinosaur exhibit that will remain on view until January. The animatronic figures move and make sounds amid scenes of their natural habitat. Kids and dinosaurs are a natural mix, and the exhibit held several children in fascination while we were there.

The aquarium’s Matt Klepeisz said the facility’s stranding response program will be the subject of a fall exhibit aimed at educating local residents and visitors to the aquarium’s professional response team, which should be called when marine animals are found in distress in the area.

Virginia Beach offers welcome, if unexpected treats this fall.

For more information Founders Inn: foundersinn.com Virginia Aquarium: virginiaaquarium.com

Th e F ound ers Inn

Colonial elegance, Casual fun Enjoy our Colonial-style rooms and beautiful gardens. Swim in our fantastic pools, sample the fare in our two restaurants, and relax at the Flowering Almond Spa. We even include free parking, wireless Internet, and seasonal beach shuttle.

5641 Indian River Rd. Virginia Beach, Va.

757-424-5511 FoundersInn.com VA-6 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

The English Gardens at The Founders Inn are a beautiful setting for weddings or just relaxing.

virginia I marth a steger

Stars to sea: Losing yourself on Virginia’s Eastern Shore Virginia’s Eastern Shore is full of contradictions.

I’ve never been geographically lost here because I grew up on one of the peninsula’s produce farms, but by driving a few miles east or west, I’d run into a tangle of lanes and woodlands opening onto either the Atlantic Ocean or the Chesapeake Bay. I would then back up to find the turn I missed, often having an engaging conversation with a local resident in the process.

It’s delightfully easy, on the other hand, to get lost in time and space on this, the East Coast’s longest stretch of undeveloped coastline. Another dichotomy is the area’s heritage and its culinary appeals. English mariners anchored in this part of the bay prior to Jamestown’s settlement in 1607 and I’ve read a sampling of the nation’s oldest continuous court records in Eastville’s courthouse.

Yet, I’ve also seen 21st-century aquaculture and viticulture technology employed at aqua farms and wineries along the shore’s culinary trail.

Insider Tip: October is Wine and Brine Month, combining local wines and oysters at events throughout the area.

Now that summer crowds are gone, fall is the perfect time to explore — by car or by bike — the shore’s seaside and bayside roads, as well as Assateague Island’s nature trails.

The wild Chincoteague ponies abound in small herds on the island and are in relaxed mode for photographers, with another year’s Pony Penning event behind them.

located on Route 175 heading onto Chincoteague Island — is a great place to explore. For an astronaut’s-eye view of the planets and moons in our solar system, see the Science on a Sphere Theatre with its stunning visuals produced from scientific data. Look online to find out which special events, such as the Sept. 28 total lunar eclipse, are happening before visiting one of the world’s oldest launch sites.

Online planning also ensures visitors don’t miss island events appealing to landlubbers in the family — though the ocean remains an appeal during Virginia’s Indian summer. The Decoy Carvers’ & Artists’ Association Decoy Show over Labor Day weekend (Sept. 5–6), as well as the island’s Second Saturday Art Stroll on Sept. 12, always draw visitors to Chincoteague. The upcoming Eastern Shore Birding & Wildlife Festival, Oct. 8–11 — with the annual Oyster Festival on Oct. 10 — appeals to the naturalist, paddler, hiker/biker, and artist (also the seafood-lover). The birding festival is a massive shore-wide event that provides access to locations not usually open to the public, as well as Ch incoteague Tourism

For more information Eastern Shore Tourism: esvatourism.org

From NASA’s New Horizons to nautical history With the New Horizons spacecraft hovering in the news for much of the past summer, Wallops Island Flight Facility Visitor Center —

Like Us. Win Stuff.

activities on public lands.

Tucked as it is close to sea level, the Eastern Shore’s flat terrain makes it ideal for bicycling novices, as well as for those who want to race through 100 miles a day. On Oct. 24, the 23rd annual Between the Waters Bike Tour will be held. (cbes.org). History becomes more intimate in pastoral field-and-forest settings that haven’t changed much for at least 500 years. Four centuries’ architectural trends can be noted as bicyclists take bayside and seaside roads winding from the county seats of Accomac and Eastville.

With its active arts, wine, bed-and-breakfasts, and boutique scene, Cape Charles — at the southern tip of the Eastern Shore — encompasses a hub of activity not seen since its frenetically busy ferry and railroad days in the first half of the last century. Eat fresh, raw oysters to your heart’s content by the water’s edge or in a nearby Irish pub, then pick up evening entertainment here or watch the sun sink slowly into the bay at the Sunset Beach Inn’s beachside cafe, not far from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel entrance. If you’re not traveling across the amazing bridge-tunnel right away, stay the night at Sunset Beach Inn & RV Park or a nearby B&B. Departure the following day leaves time for revisiting nearby Kiptopeke State Park, with its own campsites and amenities, as well as the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge.

I say “revisiting” because an old saying goes that once the sand gets in your shoes, you’ll be returning. I might add that once you taste the salt air and seafood — and see the stars in a pristine environment without a crowd of city lights — you’ll be lost in reverie, without any thought of contradictions.

Fall Oyster Roasts - Virginia Eastern Shore For details & tickets: www.esvatourism.org/oysters Oct. 10 Nov. 13-15 Chincoteague Oyster Festival

Holidays on the Half Shell

Chincoteague

Chincoteague

Oct. 10

Swine and Wine

The famous pony swim brings new foals and their mothers to Chincoteague for the annual July auction.

Nov. 14

Cape Charles

Merroir & Terroir Oyster Extravaganza

Oct. 10

Machipongo

Brews, Bands, Barbeque and Oysters

Nov. 14

Oyster Shooter Party

Cape Charles

Melfa

Oct. 23

Nov. 21

Soule Arnold Oyster Roast and Clam Steam Exmore

Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast Machipongo

Nov. 28

Nov. 7

Island House Oyster Roast

Cape Charles Historical Society

Wachapreague

Cape Charles

Come Discover the Undiscovered recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-7

virginia I sue bland

American symbols mark every step along the Northern Neck If you were guaranteed a romantic weekend escape just an hour from Washington, would you take it? East of Fredericksburg, a finger of land between the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers has more romantic spots in nature peppered with legendary history than you can imagine.

In Virginia’s Northern Neck, you

can spy on bald eagles at Caledon State Park, hunt for pre-historic shark teeth on Fossil Beach at Westmoreland State Park, and take in a fabulous culinary event at historic Stratford Hall. A weekend isn’t enough to discover this region’s small towns, local heritage museums, antique shops, and eateries, so plan to stay longer,

S tratf ord H all

or return to the area once you’ve discovered its pleasures.

On the area’s northern border, you’ll find Colonial Beach, which rocks its beach-town feel on the Potomac River. Not far away are the birthplaces of George Washington and Robert E. Lee. Lee’s ancestors signed the Declaration of Independence and later helped forge the U.S. Constitution. They were born on a regal estate called Stratford Hall, which was named for a family home in England. Just east of Stratford Hall, George Washington was born on a farm now operated as a National Historic Landmark. Both places offer informative tours, great walking trails, and water views.

Sample the area’s oysters Taking advantage of September’s Indian summer, Stratford Hall will celebrate its ninth Wine and Oyster Festival, Sept. 19–20, beginning at 11:00am each day. A $20 tasting ticket lets you sample 14 area wines and tour the Great House. Food vendors prepare oysters every which way, and there’s guilt-free oyster slurping thanks to bay-area farmers who’ve succeeded with aquaculture.

The once disappearing bivalve is making a comeback and cleaning the Chesapeake Bay to boot. continued on page VA-9

S tratf ord H all

Festivalgoers enjoy wine, oysters, and a host of vendors during Stratford Hall’s Wine and Oyster Festival.

Local oyster “farmers” bring their harvest to the festival on Sept. 19–20.

Westmoreland County Virginia More Beaches, More Parks, More Wine, More History

www.visitwestmorelandva.org

www.colonialbeachva.net

WE SALUTE YOU. You’ve earned this moment in countless ways. Which is why we’re honored to offer active and veteran military personnel like you up to a 30% discount off your stay. Tee off beside a 50-acre lake. Get a taste of the Virginia Wine Trail. Sail, kayak or paddleboard along Carter’s Creek. It’s the ultimate opportunity to unwind and enjoy.

Receive 10% - 30% off weekday and weekend rates based on availability. Book now or call 804.438.4465.

480 King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA 22480 |

info@tidesinn.com

VA-8 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Explore and Experience Westmoreland County, Virginia

For more info call 804.493.8440

Find us on Facebook

WILD, WONDERFUL

AUTUMN w GETAWAYS FA L L 2 01 5

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

Seneca Rocks, WV recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-1

d Our M artinsy,buWrgV)Weeken

west virginia I bonnie williamson

Eastern Panhandle has ghosts, art, and marksmen

(Berkeley Count

From learning primitive skills to visiting an art co-op, there are all kinds of things to do!

o f history, s r a e y 0 5 2 With some great s a h g r u b s in M art ries! ghosts and sto

Great Fa ll Festivals and adventures!

This area is #2 in the USA for geocaching favorite spots!

Our NEXT Martinsburg Weekend!

GEOCACHING THREE TRAILS with COLLECTABLE COINS - Gadgets of Berkely County - Mystery Caches of Berkely County - Villages of Berkely County

For information, visit travelwv.com

HAUNTED HISTORY AND LEGENDS TOURS MARTINSBURG, WV

Ghostly encounters

MOUNTAINCRAFT AND MUSIC GATHERING AT NORTH AMERICAN BUSHCRAFT SCHOOL

SEPTEMBER 10-13

A 3-day festival for primitive skills, old-time music and community

For information, visit mountaincraft.org

FALL FARM DAYS AT ORR’S FARM MARKET

SEPTEMBER 26-27 For information, visit For information, visit martinsburgwvghosttours.vpweb.com orrsfarmmarket.com

Download our free App for Android & iOS! Visit Martinsburg, WV Martinsburg-Berkeley County Convention and Visitors Bureau 126 East Race Street • Martinsburg, WV 25401 304.264.8801 or 800.4WVA.FUN

Visit us at TravelWV.com

Visitors to the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia can aim for ghosts, art, or targets this fall.

It’s the season, as Halloween approaches, for brave souls to test their courage by facing the supernatural. They may get more than they bargained for with “Haunted History and Legends of Martinsburg,” a two-hour walking tour of cemeteries and other ghostly sites.

Martinsburg is about a 90-minute drive from the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore areas.

Justin Stevens, a Martinsburg native, has been doing the ghost tours for two years. They encompass a wide area in town.

“There are too many ghosts here to fit in to just have one set tour,” Stevens said.

Martinsburg has 23 historic districts and thousands of historic homes. The tours include the Historic District Tour of old town Martinsburg; the South End Tour, where visitors can go to a haunted former jail; and the Scariest Place Tour, where the most active locations are investigated.

One tour features the Norborne Cemetery on South Queen Street, which Stevens said is the oldest in town, dating from 1772.

“There is an entity in there that will push people down. It hasn’t happened to me, but a friend said she felt something behind her, then she said something pushed her.

There’s a creepiness to the place.

There’s a dark area like a black hole where a psychic told me she saw a Jack the Ripper kind of figure,” Stevens said.

At the Green Hill Cemetery, located at Bulleye Road and East Burke Street, shadow figures have been seen amongst the graves.

One tour even includes the Apollo Civic Theatre at 128 E. Martin St.

“There are all kinds of urban legends about the Apollo ghost.

One is it’s a stagehand named George who fell to his death while working on lights above the stage.

Another story says a man was killed while resisting arrest in the early 1900s outside the theater,” Stevens said.

The tours cost $12 a person for those 13 and older. They start at the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Public Library at 101 W. King St. In the summer, the tours begin at 9:00pm; in the fall 7:00pm. For the fall season, the tours run every Friday and Saturday from Sept. 25– Nov. 7. Reservations are required.

A taste for art If your tastes are more of an artistic nature, Martinsburg’s Berkeley Arts Council Art Works Gallery on North Queen Street offers a Life in the Wild exhibit Sept.2–Oct. 4.

This is a juried wildlife art exhibit to celebrate the beauty and diversity of life in the natural world and is the first of its kind in the area.

The exhibit is free.

“Artwork of all kinds will be featured, from paintings to photographs to 3-dimensional sculptures,” said Melinda Shavers, one of the founders of BAC. “Artists from all over the country have entries, so we will see a nice selection of work, not just from local artists.”

About 44 artists have entered works. Rip Smith, a BAC board member, said about 95 pieces were considered by the judges.

Another art exhibit, the third annual Eastern West Virginia Juried Exhibit, runs Oct. 8–Nov. 8.

The show will feature works from all media. It is open to local West Virginia artists from the Eastern Panhandle.

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-2

| west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

continued on page WV-9

FALL IN THE MOUNTAINS

WILD, WONDERFUL WEST VIRGINIA

YOU’LL FIND IT HERE.

More than just stunning scenery. Play, celebrate, and explore West Virginia’s best fall events, activities, flavors, and more.

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA #GoToWV |

Stifel Fine Arts Center, Wheeling, WV

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-3

west virginia I su clauson- wicker

Kick off the fall with leafpeeping in W.Va. state parks From that first speckled trout pulled from a mountain stream to the breathtaking view on a ski lift ride up a ridge to a relaxing soak at an historic spa, West Virginia’s

state parks offer a myriad of memorable experiences. There’s no better time than fall to make some memories of your own.

Since West Virginia’s first state

W est V irginia S tate P arks

park, Droop Mountain Battlefield, was dedicated 97 years ago, the Mountain State’s holdings have grown to 36 state parks, eight state forests, and two rail-trail parks.

These parks boast 10 lodges, almost 350 cabins, six golf courses, an early 20th-century railroad, and an Ohio River sternwheeler.

West Virginia’s special packages and discounts make stays especially economical. Veterans and active military personnel, for instance, receive a year-round 10 percent discount on lodge rooms, cabins, and campsites.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park At serene Canaan Valley Resort State Park, high in Tucker County, guests 60 or older can overnight

Canaan Valley State Park’s renovated lodge features a variety of modern accommodations.

in a standard lodge room Sunday through Thursday for just $65 a night. An even bigger deal: Kids under 17 stay free when bunking with their parents.

Canaan offers compelling reasons to visit this fall, including falconry demonstrations Labor Day weekend, day trips to Dolly Sods wilderness area Sept. 26, and the valley-wide Leaf Peeping Festival, Sept. 25–27. The 27th annual festival includes a golf tournament, pet show, duck race, 2K/5K run, car show, parade, Saturday Octoberfest, and, of course, an unimaginable number of beautiful autumn leaves.

Even on an ordinary day, Canaan Valley offers dozens of fun things to do. Sporting clays are popular with families as well as

Mountain Rail Adventures Celebrate the Harvest season under the Harvest Moon at Spruce.

Beautiful fall colors, TRADITIONAL MOUNTAIN MUSIC AND PICNIC. As dusk settles in, ENJOY A CAMPFIRE until the moon peaks over the mountain.

Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch & Picnic

September 26, Cass, WV

Capon Springs Farms WV Mountain Getaway and

just 2 hours from DC!

DEPARTING ELKINS, WV for the North Pole

Select Mid-Week Dates Available November - December

866.697.6028

mtn-rail.com

$99 Fall Midweek Packages Available!

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-4

| west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

serious sports people. The rainbow of fire-hued trees make the scenic chairlift ride a popular September activity, while others enjoy seeing the leaves at ground level from a hiking or biking trail behind the lodge. Bike rentals are available on site. Volleyball, swimming in the indoor pool, ladder golf, and corn hole toss are perennial favorites, as is simply gazing at the high valley scenery.

Blackwater Falls State Park

bocce ball, as well as boat rentals and 7 miles of hiking trails.

For those who need even more incentive to make the four-hour drive from Washington, D.C, the Appalachian Fall Festival, held here Sept.

19–20, offers a host of activities, from apple butter making to wine tasting, hayrides, a craft fair, and glass-blowing demonstrations. If you’re a budding naturalist, consider visiting Oct. 2–4, when guests can help experts with banding and surveying migrating birds. Learn to identify fly-

ing fowl by sight and sound.

The park teams up with the New Tygart Flyer, Oct. 9–10, to offer a beautiful fall foliage day trip on a mountain railroad. Breakfast and lunch are included in this jaunt to the High Falls of the Cheat River by rail. Overnight and walk-in packages are available, but registration ahead of time is required. Call 304-265-6144 to reserve your seat. continued on page WV-11

Canaan Valley Resort State Park’s neighbor in the valley, Blackwater Falls State Park, will capitalize on its peaceful, rural location Oct. 1–4 with its 26th annual Astronomy Weekend. During the dark skies shortly after the new moon, the park hosts a bevy of astronomers to help visitors appreciate the beauty of the night skies.

The weekend includes workshops, speakers, and night star parties for novices and professionals alike.

W .V a. Tourism

Tygart Lake State Park Tygart Lake State Park, located 30 minutes from Morgantown, near Grafton, lies on the shores of 10-mile-long Tygart Lake. Walleye, musky, crappie, perch, and catfish, as well as prized West Virginia golden trout, lurk in the cooler fall waters.

Visitors can enjoy volleyball, horseshoes, and

At Canaan Valley Resort State Park, you don’t need water to enjoy summer tubing.

You’ll never forget

THIS VIEW

Plan your fall getaway at a

West Virginia State Park cabin.

Spend your days leaf peeping and your evenings star gazing by the campfire.

Pick your park and pack your bags.

Call today!

1-800-CALL-WVA

Memories happen here.

Blackwater Falls State Park

# wvstateparks.com

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-5

west virginia I gwen woolf

Find the unexpected on a West Virginia getaway Sure, you can drive the interstate to get from here to there in the fastest time, but taking the back roads gives you a closer look at nature and quirky places that make any trip memorable.

That’s certainly true of West Virginia. When was the last time you came across a gardener who sings

to his lemon trees? An insane asylum tourism attraction? A restaurant in a church? A giant metal rooster?

One way to enjoy the state’s twisting roads and spectacular mountain scenery is atop a motorcycle. For several riders, a recent trip from Charles Town in the eastern panhandle southwest

W V Tourism

The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum attracts history-lovers and ghosthunters alike.

POTOMAC EAGLE

scenic railroad

FALL FOLIAGE EXCURSIONS Oct. 4th thru Oct. 30th — 3 hour trips Monday-Friday: Depart 1pm Sat.-Sun.: Oct. 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 Depart 10am and 2:30pm Oct. 3: 10am-6pm, all-day round trip from Romney to Petersburg

INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS: Online Ticketing www.PotomacEagle.info • 304-424-0736 Station open on train days 304-822-7464 149 Eagle Drive, Rt 28N, Romney WV

to Charleston, the state capital, involved many stops for sightseeing and hearty meals. Routes 50 and 60 were among favorite roads during the five-day journey.

Charles Town wasn’t much fun for abolitionist John Brown, who was hanged there in 1859, but today it’s a mecca for thoroughbred horse racing and gambling enthusiasts. Adding to the mix at Hollywood Casino is a new event center that features concerts and comedy acts.

A pretty drive by the Shenandoah River leads to the Bloomery Plantation Distillery, where moonshine is turned into the distillery’s tart SweetShine. Free samples of the 10 liqueurs, including hard lemonade, black walnut, and chocolate raspberry, are served in the cozy tasting room of the 1840s building. In the greenhouse, gardener Jim Rick sings to the lemon trees to encourage growth.

“These trees have heard everything from Abba to Zappa,” he said.

In Fairmont, return to frontier days at Prickett’s Fort State Park.

Originally a refuge for settlers from Indian raids in 1774, the reconstructed log fort has lots of nooks and crannies to explore.

For a return to a 1950s atmosphere, eat at Poky Dot restaurant. Steaks and seafood are noteworthy at Aquarium Lounge, restored after a devastating fire.

Another spot for a tour, meal, spirits, and music is Heston Farm Winery and Distillery. Its Foxfire restaurant and summer courtyard concerts make for a fun evening.

The unofficial “greeter” is Jade, a former bomb-sniffing dog in Iraq.

And, for a sip of old-fashioned mead (wine made with honey), seek out Mountain Dragon Mazery, where owners Tom and Ruth Ann Maltby are dedicated to “bringing back lost flavors.”

Insanely interesting A fascinating stop is the TransAllegheny Lunatic Asylum. With its massive and foreboding stone

exterior and barred windows, it looms like a vulture in Weston. A guide dressed like Nurse Ratched locks the heavy wooden doors behind you as you begin the tour.

You’re led through a maze of wards, corridors, and stairways in the hospital, which was in operation from 1864 to 1994 and once held up to 2,600 patients. Peeling paint and sparse furniture highlight most rooms, but an abundance of natural light reduces the creepiness factor. There are solitaryconfinement rooms, a building for the criminally insane, and a gloomy medical building complete with morgue. The administration building and one ward have been restored.

The guide has stories about a murder at the institution, female patients being wrongly committed by mean husbands, and methods once thought as curative for mental illness, such as lobotomies and electroshock. The tour arouses many emotions, especially sadness, and it’s a relief to be back outside in the fresh air. It’s no surprise the asylum is said to be haunted; the brave can take an overnight paranormal tour.

After lunch at the highly rated Thyme Bistro, watch a glassblowing demonstration at Appalachian Art Glass. The gift shop has a dazzling collection of glass objects, including flowers and friendship balls.

The stone-cut Lambert’s Winery has rocking chairs available for free tastings.

Insider tip: Wednesday nights offer a rollicking good time with pizza, wine, and music outdoors.

The Stonewall Resort is a place to pamper yourself. Take a relaxing cruise on the lake, and enjoy the luxury resort’s many amenities, such as a spa, fishing, hiking, and golf.

Picturesque vistas Fayetteville is another highlight, especially for meals. Enjoy thick whole-grain pancakes beneath the stained-glass windows at Cathedral

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-6

| west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

continued on page WV-12

NEW

Lodg Guestr e & ooms

Plan your next Long Weekend.

Buckhannon is what small town charm is all about - Plan your next Long Weekend here! Take a drive through West Virginia, relax into a slower pace of living and see why we’re Wild & Wonderful.

www.VisitUpshur.org

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-7

cu l tu re I gwen woolf

Lively music resonateS at American Mountain Theater “We do ask that you hold your applause until we do something,” says Kenny Sexton, his voice dripping with Southern honey.

The host sets a humorous tone at the outset of the show at the American Mountain Theater. The audience sits back to enjoy an evening of pure entertainment.

For nine years, a talented troupe of professional musicians and singers — mostly related by blood or marriage — have churned out wholesome Branson-style variety shows in the little town of Elkins, W.Va. The shows change every year, but follow a winning formula of diverse musical genres and comic relief.

The premier two-hour show features the band playing a variety of instruments, with individual performers spotlighted in solos or different groupings. The music ranges from country to rock to gospel to patriotic. Two of the performers are Sexton’s wife, Beverly, and her sister, Susie, who are show biz veterans.

Sexton and Denny Franks banter between

songs, and comic impersonations of James Brown, Frank Sinatra, and The Monkees are hilarious.

“It makes us laugh and it’s contagious,” says Sexton about the comedy.

Besides the premier show, the theater also has a “History of American Music Show” on selected dates and a “Christmas Spectacular,” Nov. 27–Dec. 20. Two concert series with southern gospel and bluegrass themes bring in outside groups.

The theater draws some 30,000 visitors during the season, which runs from April to December.

The audience sits in a roomy auditorium. Veterans, those with birthdays, and special groups are recognized at intermission. There’s popcorn and a gift shop in the lobby, and the cast comes out to greet patrons after the show.

“Did you have fun?” a troupe member asks a little boy after a recent show. The child happily hops up and down in response.

“We’re not plastic. The show is real,” says

Sexton, when asked about the key to the theater’s success.

The theater owns the nearby Isaac Jackson Hotel and 1863 Grill and offers various package deals. Get a box of the Grill’s out-of-this world cinnamon rolls to go.

If you prefer a dinner theater, Elkins also has the Gandy Dancer Theatre & Conference Center. Performers showcase a variety of musical styles from the 1950s to the present, along with family-friendly comedy.

Artifacts to art shows Elkins, about a 200-mile drive from Washington, D.C., has other cultural highlights. One is the little-known Stirrup Gallery inside the Myles Center for the Arts at Davis & Elkins College.

The nucleus of the gallery is the Darby Collection, some 10,000 items donated to the college in 1943 by Hosea M. Darby, an Elkins architect. Ranging from the Stone Age to the early 20th century, the artifacts include American

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachians, Randolph County, WV offers dazzling activities to compliment the beautiful fall scenery with hundreds of miles of mountain views and lush river valleys that offer motorcycle enthusiasts the rides of a lifetime,

what do u do?

FALL For Our

Our spectacular Route 33, that runs through the county, offers 11 stops that guarantee to thrill a family including the Town of Elkins, which was named in the Top 100 Best U.S. Small Art Towns, Mountain Rail Adventures aboard any of the four train excursions, wonderful Fall Festivals including the Mountain State Forest Festival, one of West Virginia’s oldest events plus two live, “Branson Style” Musical Theaters that provides wonderful family entertainment.

History, heritage, music and art, combined with some of America’s most beautiful mountain forest, are all reasons to visit Randolph County in “Almost Heaven” West Virginia.

For more information: 1.800.422.3304

OutstandingAdventures

· www.randolphcountywv.com Located in the Heart of West Virginia

destination GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-8

| west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Indian pottery and baskets, firearms and other weapons, glassware, metalware, and Americana items. The gallery’s collection of 300 powder horns is considered among the best in the country.

Visitors are invited to handle some items, says curator Mark Lanham.

The college’s Augusta Heritage Center, which is on West Virginia’s Mountain Music Trail, hosts a variety of performances, classes, and folklife programs. Its next event is October Old-Time Week and Old-Time Fiddlers Reunion, Oct.

18–25, featuring live music, fine craft, and homegrown items.

Downtown Elkins will be the scene of the Mountain State Forest Festival, Sept. 26–Oct. 4, with fine arts and crafts, live music, and parades.

The Randolph County Community Arts Center, housed in a former church, also offers art exhibitions.

While you’re in Elkins, pick up a brochure for a self-guided tour of the historic district, which has many turn-of-the-20th-century buildings. A variety of excursions aboard the vintage pas-

senger trains of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad leave from the restored Elkins train depot. Among them are scenic rides, children’s events, dinner trains, and murder mystery trips.

For more information American Mountain Theater: americanmountaintheater.com Gandy Dancer Theatre: gandydancertheatre.com West Virginia Tourism: wvtourism.com

Eastern Panhandle continued from page WV-2

On target If you want to see some of the best marksmanship in the world, head for the 2015 NRA World Shooting Championship, Sept.24–26, at the Peacemaker National Training Center in Gerrardstown, located about 12 miles outside of Martinsburg.

Peacemaker National Training Center is the largest shooting sports complex on the East Coast. The facility has 17 ranges to support every type of competitive and recreational firearms use.

The Eastern Panhandle’s eclectic array of fall activities can suit just about everyone’s taste.

For more information Ghost tours: 304-261-7470 Martinsburg Tourism: travelwv.com World Shooting Championship: peacemakernational.com

Like Us. Win Stuff.

Leaf Peeping For Less!

Our brilliant colors are on display this fall! Start your breathtaking tour on our rail trail where reflections in the mighty Monongahela River deliver twice the color. Hike to Coopers Rock for a spectacular fall display 1,200 ft. above Cheat Canyon.

Then ride through the colorful canopy on our three zip lines.

Combine your autumn tour with a fall family event below!

Make Reservations at tourmorgantown.com Morgantown Marathon Sept. 19-20

Wine & Jazz Festival Sept. 19-20

Preston County Buckwheat Festival Sept. 24-27

Arts Walk and Art Is Food Oct. 2

Chestnut Festival Oct. 11

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-9

west virginia I gwen woolf

Find cowboys and fall colors in Tucker County S teve S h aluta

Fall foliage frames Blackwater Falls, one of West Virginia’s most photographed spots.

This fall, there are many reasons to visit scenic Tucker County, W.Va., where colorful leaves arrive sooner because of the high altitude and the travel time is an hour less thanks to recently completed highways.

Some of the happenings center around Timberline Four Seasons Resort (timberlineresort.com), including a Pro Mountain Bike Race on Sept. 6. It’s the fourth stop for the 2015 Maxxis Gravity East Series, the East Coast’s preeminent downhill race series.

Timberline adds a fourth state to the 9-yearold series and more than 1,000 vertical feet to the ride. Many top mountain bikers have used the series as a training ground.

Timberline returns to the Old West for its annual Summer Frontier Weekend, Sept.

25–26. Gussy up in your western-style clothes to watch a live shootout on horseback, experience an authentic cow camp and a chuck wagon with barbecue ribs, and square dance to old western and mountain music by the Saddle Tramps. On Sept. 26, view the fall leaves on horseback during the Autumn Color Mountain Trail Rides. Chairlift rides and mountain biking are available both days.

The Canaan Valley Resort State Park (canaanresort.com) hosts the annual Leaf Peepers Festival Sept. 25–27. Activities include 2K and 5K runs, a food and craft fair, Oktoberfest, car show, parade, golf tournament, and plenty of fall foliage to enjoy.

As the locals say, you can “Get Tucker’d” exploring the county’s many hiking and biking trails, including several rail trails. Both

Bring Your Golf Group!

West Virginia’s Eastern Gateway is a history and outdoor lovers paradise!

It’s time to discover Shepherdstown – the oldest town in WV – in all it’s Autumn splendor!

It’s all here for you at The Woods: • 36 Holes of Golf • Tennis & Swimming • 4 Bedroom Cottages • The Clubhouse Grille • The Sleepy Creek Spa

Enjoy a relaxing cabin stay Government with adventure Employee filled activities Discounts Available Clarion Hotel & Conference Center 233 Lowe Drive, Shepherdstown, WV Reservation HOTLINE 304.876.7000

Hiking! Biking! Boating! Rafting!

Quaint shops and trendy eateries!

Historic National Parks and casino nearby!

ClarionShepherdstown.com

888.712.2246 wvcabins.com W

VTO

U R ISM.CO

M

800-248-2222•TheWoods.com 800

- 22 5 - 5

982

Mountain Lake Road • HedgesviLLe, Wv

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-10 | west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Canaan Valley and Blackwater Falls state parks offer interpretive hikes on their trails. You can give your feet a rest while rafting on the Cheat, Dry Fork, and Laurel Fork rivers. Or, take to some of the quieter waters for a canoe, kayak, or float adventure.

Whatever your outdoor pleasure, there are outfitters ready to help with gear, maps, recommendations, and trips.

Leaf-peeping

For more information

Berkeley Springs

Tucker Co. Tourism: canaanvalley.org V ictoria W eeks

continued from page WV-5

The focal point of Berkeley Springs has always been the warm mineral springs where George Washington once bathed. In fact, his stone “bath tub” still sits in Berkeley Springs State Park. The Roman bath house, modern spa, and the springs museum are all draws to the historic town, but on Sept. 20, Oct. 4, and Oct. 18, an additional attraction enters the equation: Art in the Park. In its ninth year, Art in the Park showcases the nationally known artists living in this eclectic artsy town. Exhibits run 10:00am– 4:00pm, rain or shine.

Know how to summon a hog? Find out at Berkeley Springs’ annual Apple Butter Festival, Oct. 9–11. Hog-calling is just one of many activities. Mike Colyer and the Tonehounds will be opening the festivities Saturday morning with blues, swing, jazz, and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll. Visitors can participate in apple butter making and sampling, as well as browse an array of crafts, produce, and antiques laid out along the streets surrounding the park.

For more information Leaf peeping is an art form in Tucker County, W.Va.

West Virginia State Parks: wvstateparks.com

Canaan Valley | Blackwater Falls

tucker county, west virginia

Get Tuckr’d Quick’r!

The new Highway 48 means you can get to the Leaf Peeper’s Festival faster than ever!

Leaf Peeper’s Festival

The ultimate high-mountain autumn experience.

Davis | September 25–27, 2015

Call or click for your Free Vacation guide

800.782.2775 | canaanvalley.org

GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I west virginia tou rism

| W V-11

Unexpected continued from page WV-6 Café, a hundred-year-old former church.

The name of another popular local restaurant, The Secret Sandwich Society, makes you want to check it out. Go to Pies & Pints for creative craft pizza and beer.

When you see the gristmill,

rushing water, and giant boulders at Babcock State Park in Clifftop, you’ll understand why it’s among the most photographed spots in the state. Likewise, a large metal rooster outside River Expedition’s W V Tourism

Red Dog River Saloon has inspired more than one tipsy photographer.

Stay in cabins or tents at the adventure resort, which features whitewater rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, horseback riding, and paintball.

A scenic drive takes you past the dramatic New River Gorge, where Bridge Day draws thousands in October, and Hawks Nest State Park.

In Charleston, it’s pleasant to hear live bands at an outdoor amphitheater on Friday nights in summer. Shop at Capitol Market for produce, flowers, and other treats.

This group of motorcyclists joined other riders at the annual Run for the Wall rally at the West Virginia Capitol honoring veterans.

Read about many of the state’s heroes in the West Virginia Division of Tourism’s new booklet, “West Virginia’s Military Heritage.”

For more information Lambert’s winery is among West Virginia’s growing number of vineyards.

West Virginia Tourism: wvtourism.com

n o s n a R

a i n i g r i West V

Shake up your fall story.

Every fall has a tale to tell; spend a chapter in Ranson.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, Ranson boasts sun-sational options for families, couples, or group getaways— just an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C.

304.724.3862

www.ransonwv.us/escape GoToWV.com | 800-CALL WVA | #GoToWV |

W V-12

| west virginia tou rism

I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Northern Neck continued from page VA-8 Four area oyster growers will be at the Stratford Hall festival and, if the pairing of oysters and wine isn’t enough, the event will offer children’s activities, everything Harley-Davidson, local artists’ and craftsmen’s wares, gardening and beekeeping displays, and creative food choices. Tickets are discounted for non-tasters. Lodging is available on the estate and a packaged tour to other key area attractions may be purchased through the end of September.

Another great place to overnight is the casually elegant Tides Inn of Irvington. Known as a golfer’s haven surrounded by tidal creeks and estuaries, the Tides offers romantic cruises, tennis, quiet relaxation, and delicious, traditionally prepared meals. The Tides is more than a stone’s throw from George Washington’s birthplace, but still close, especially without freeway traffic. Special discounts are available for veterans.

Up Route 3 from Irvington in Warsaw is Menokin, where an engaging archaeological project is in the making. This grand house was built in the mid-1700s for Francis Lightfoot Lee, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

The Menokin Foundation calls the ghost of a home that now exists “Rubble with a Cause.” Harvard architecture grad school students have taken up the cause and are designing a glass structure for visitors to examine one of the most sophisticated residences of Colonial America. Today, you

can see an orientation video, tour the estate, and watch and talk to archaeologists. A recent traveler said, “Menokin makes a great day trip for anyone from the most casual traveler to the serious scholar interested in American history, architecture, or preservation.”

Watch eagles soar If wildlife watching is your passion, you’ll find plenty to satisfy you in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Three state parks, the Virginia Birding Trail, a national park, historic estates, and wide-open farmland protect waterfowl, birds of prey, migratory songbirds, and mammals.

The bald eagle roosts in the trees at Caledon State Park. Just outside the window of the visitors center there’s a re-created bald eagle’s nest nearly 8 feet wide that provides startling insight into the majestic habitat of the eagle. Great illustrations and taxidermy in the visitors’ center teach

important lessons about old baldy. Find out about the many state park events in the Northern Neck at dcr.virginia.gov.

The Westmoreland County Museum offers an insight into more than just local heritage with its exhibits relating to luminaries ranging from William Pitt to Lord Fairfax to Robert E. Lee. A newly created Artisan Trail leads to area crafters, jewelers, painters, furniture makers, and more.

For more information Northern Neck Tourism: northernneck.org

Terry Cosgrove

Belle Isle | Caledon | Westmoreland

There’s still plenty of good kayaking weather at Colonial Beach and nearby state parks.

go for it!

Explore and Experience Colonial Beach, Virginia Great Place to Play, Stay and Get Away.

Close to D.C and Richmond

www.colonialbeachva.net

destination

video

RecreationNews

.com

For more information call 804-224-7181

Virginia State Parks

800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-9

virginia I angela blue

Celebrating fall’s tasty harvest all around Mecklenburg County The concept of “farm-to-fork” fare has gained popularity in big cities as well as small towns, but in regions like southern Virginia, where pastures and edible plants far outweigh the plants of the industrial kind, farm-to-fork isn’t really a new approach to eating; it’s the natural thing to do.

Mecklenburg County, south of Richmond along the Virginia-North Carolina border, displays miles of scenic woodlands, rolling pastures dotted with grazing cows, and crops that are lovingly tended and harvested. Keeping with the spirit of Southern hospitality, many farms aren’t just for viewing — they’re for visiting, too.

Mecklenburg Co. Tourism

From the farm Shopping is a treat at Grandfather’s Country Creations.

Start at Crickets Cove Farm &

Forge in Victoria, where Marianne Cicala and her husband, Jim Cooper, specialize in permaculture, a type of organic farming practice that uses no fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.

“It makes a huge difference when you can literally walk through and see the partnership with plants and see how beautiful and delicious food is in its natural state,” Cicala said.

You can learn more about natural gardening techniques by attending one of the farm’s workshops, which offer classroom-style instruction on sustainability, companion planting, biodynamics, and handson participation in garden layouts.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as primitive camping on the creek, are all included in the weekend. The next workshop is Oct. 9–11. (cricketscove.net)

More Green. Less Fee. A golfer’s dream. Unlimited play on our green and lush 6,400 yard Shenandoah Valley course nestled amid Virginia’s equally beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Package includes meals and lodging, greens fees and cart for 18 holes daily and extra round for cart fees only!

For more details check out www.luraycaverns.com or call (540) 743-6551.

3 Day / 2 Night Packages from

$259

Per person, double occupancy, includes tax

The President Requests the Pleasure of Your Company . . .

Revolutionary War Hero; Ambassador; Congressman; Senator; Secretary of State; Secretary of War; Governor of Virginia; President of the United States; Author of the Monroe Doctrine.

At the James Monroe Museum, explore the life and legacy of one of our nation’s most popular and respected public servants. The Fredericksburg area also offers excellent dining, shopping, and lodging, all within 50 miles of Richmond, VA and Washington, DC.

James Monroe Museum 908 Charles Street Fredericksburg, VA 540-654-1043

www.jamesmonroemuseum.org

VA-10 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Mighty Oaks Farm in Boydton offers free farm tours with opportunities to meet its dairy goats, freerange chickens, and honeybees. (mightyoaksfarm.net) In South Hill, you’ll find Hammten Farms, where you can buy the pork and poultry that is raised without the use of chemicals, pesticides, GMOs, soy, hormones, or antibiotics. (hammten farms.com) The Taylor-Wright Farm in Broadnax is a sixth-generation operation that encourages visitors to the 180-acre farm raising all-natural pigs, goats, turkeys, and chickens.

The farm has earned an animal welfare certification. (thetaylorwright farmcompany.com)

To the fork Purchase your meat from TaylorWright to go, or simply pull up a stool at The Horseshoe Restaurant in South Hill. This seemingly holein-the-wall diner serves up an extraordinary selection of menu items, including peach and prosciutto pizza or blueberry balsamic pork chops — far from your typical diner fare.

At Cooper’s Landing Inn & Traveler’s Tavern in Clarksville, patrons may savor a tasty brunch on the patio or a delightful dinner in one of their elegantly adorned dining rooms.

The menu changes seasonally to incorporate local fruits and vegetables, so you can always expect

something fresh and memorable. (cooperslandinginn.net)

Spirited sips Nothing pairs with the fine flavors of southern Virginia like a glass of local wine.

Rosemont of Virginia, located in LaCrosse, is a historic estate winery offering a spectrum of wines, from merlot and Bourdeaux to traminette and pinot grigio, with some lighter, sweeter selections also available. (rosemontofvirginia.com) Gravitate toward a sweeter selection at Three Sisters of Shiney Rock Winery in Clarksville, producing muscadine, scuppernong, and blackberry wines. (threesistersofshineyrock. com) American Way Country Wines in Chase City focuses on fruit wines crafted with ripe peaches, blackberries, cherries, elderberries, apples, and even pumpkins to create unique, fruitful batches. (americanwaycountrywines.com) Wine isn’t the only beverage fermenting in these parts. At Bondurant Brothers Distillery in Chase City, brothers Robert and Joe obtain corn and barley from local farmers for use in crafting apple and peach brandy, aged corn whiskey, and moonshine in an array of flavors. The Bondurant family is no stranger to stills and has quite the moonshining history; in fact, the movie Lawless was loosely

based on the brothers’ grandfather and great uncles who sold moonshine during Prohibition.

Robert said they chose Chase City because of the excellent water quality and the town’s character.

“There’s a world of people that drive through Chase City every day,” Robert noted. “We’re going to get them to stop.” The distillery will offer tours by appointment when it opens in the near future. (bondurantbrothersdistillery.com)

Fall fun Sip and savor to your heart’s content at the South Hill Wine Festival, Sept. 19, featuring regional wineries, artists, music, and food. You can enjoy moonshine and wine tastings

paired with live music at the Sept. 26 Shine & Wine Festival held at Chase City Municipal Airport.

On Oct. 3, the first Big Buggs Island Blues Bash brings on the music 3:00–11:00pm in Clarksville, with a variety of blues performers, arts and crafts, and alcohol available for purchase.

Southern Virginia makes it easy to follow your food from the farm to the fork, so roll up your sleeves to play in the dirt a little, then savor all that the region has to offer, from sumptuous plates to luscious sips — all of which are worth celebrating.

For more information Mecklenburg Co. Tourism: visitmeckva.com

Mecklenburg Co. Tourism

After exploring the tastes of Mecklenburg County, enjoy a romantic cabin at Occoneechee State Park near Clarksville.

More Miles of Shoreline than Highway.

Be surrounded by the beauty of the season when you view Virginia’s most stunning foliage from the water. Mecklenburg County is home to Virginia’s largest lake with 850 miles of scenic shoreline. This year, paddle into a new perspective on Fall foliage.

More of what matters. More Mecklenburg. visitmeckva.com | #moremeck

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-11

virginia I su clauson- wicker

Wytheville: Enjoy views of wild and wooly southwest Virginia From almost anywhere in Wytheville, Va., you see mountains.

In autumn, they flare up in gold, maroon, and orange. In fact, fall is a

wonderful time to roam this southwest Virginia area, sampling wine, visiting the exotic animal park, touring the reconstructed 1500s Indian

W yt h e Co. Tourism

village, taking in authentic old-time music, and hiking in the hills.

Trails to magnificent views lie within minutes of downtown Wytheville and I-81 (about four-and-ahalf hours from Washington, D.C.).

Sand Mountain, nestled up against south Wytheville like a protective mother animal, rises 3,721 feet just beyond town limits. The town recently developed a former mountain reservoir into 1,800-acre Crystal Springs Recreation Area.

The 180-degree view from its cliffs, called High Rocks, is one of the best around. Hikers and mountain bikers have 13 miles of trail and a small waterfall to explore, as well as free camping at several primitive and more developed sites.

Critters and craft wines

The Big Walker Country Store is a longstanding landmark in Wythe County and part of one of Virginia’s oldest privately owned attractions.

Fort Chiswell Animal Park is only a few miles off I-81, but an outing there feels like a flash trip to another continent — although with wallabies, wildebeests, camels, ostriches, and

other exotics, it’s hard to determine which continent. Owner Jeff Archer converted a cattle farm to “outback” for at least 70 roaming animals. Visitors board a striped bus, feeding the critters that poke their heads through open windows for “zoo chow.” Expect to touch camels, water buffalo, bison, ostriches, wildebeest, and zebras. Zookeeper Heidi Crosky gives a running commentary with little asides such as “keep fingers away from the buffalo” and “the wildebeests have charged our bus,” that keep the trip interesting.

Nearby West Wind Farm Winery uses age-old methods to craft small batches of wine that win awards every year. The combination of soil, climate, and drainage makes it an excellent spot for pinot gris and cabernet sauvignon, but the white riesling is the most popular. Sweeter wines, a blackberry and a peach, are also available.

“We try to cater to everyone, from those trying their first wine to conS u Clauson- W icker

q Historic Downtown Wytheville...where the LOVE is! r

Fall in Love All Over 111 Cat a eg gorie orie or es! s

You’ll likely encounter a hungry camel at Fort Chiswell Animal Park.

D eanna K elly

A First Lady’s Birthplace Museum

edithbollingwilson.org 276.223.3484

bollingwilsonhotel.com 276.223.2333

facebook.com/Skeeters-World-Famous-Hotdogs 276.228.2611

facebook.com/grazeonmain 276.223.2334

visitwytheville.com 877.347.8307

VA-12 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Crystal Springs Recreation Area offers 13 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking.

noisseurs,” said owner Paul Hric. The winery is open daily for tastings and holds concerts the first Saturday of the month.

Highland history and vistas North of Wytheville, the Wolf Creek Indian Village and Museum at Bastian gives a glimpse of earlier history. The archeological remains of a village from about 1500 were unearthed during the construction of I-77. A re-created village, costumed interpreters, and a museum explain camp life from that time, including cooking and chores.

If you take scenic Route 52 to Bastian, you’ll pass over Big Walker Lookout, a panoramic overlook at 3,405 feet. For $5, you can climb another 100 feet up the observation tower, where the wind is always blowing. If you prefer terra firma, hike the short trail to Monster Rock Overlook. Lookout General Store sells soap, preserves, needlework, and crafts by 30 local artisans as well as “tower high” ice cream cones daily. Owner Ron Kime ensures that apple butter simmers in a copper kettle over an open fire on fall weekends. Toe-tapping Crooked Road music and craft demonstrations entertain visitors here every weekend through October.

Tour, eat, shop The 1840 Fort Chiswell Mansion, perched serenely above the I-77/I-81 junction, boasts three levels of sumptuously furnished rooms, accessed by a central staircase. After the tour, lunch is farmfresh food, cooked or pickled in the winter kitchen and grown locally, often by owner/chef Chris Disibbio.

Wythe County’s antique malls make this the spot to furnish your own mansion, whether it be with 18th-century German furniture, lace curtains, or watermelon kitsch. A $29 mink hat, $38 rose tea set, and $150 handmade wedding quilt are a few of the finds at Snooper’s Antique Mall and Old Fort Antiques, located along I-81 near Fort Chiswell.

The Farmer’s Daughter in downtown Wytheville is a find in itself. This magical boutique, decked out in silk and parasols, is the place to get designers’ samples for ultra-low prices.

Owner Tracy Holliday invites everyone to play her art-object piano in the center of the store.

Learn more Wytheville Tourism: visitwytheville.com

Nightlife Follow Wytheville’s live music trail for true-toits-roots bluegrass and old-time toe tapping tunes.

At Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, the rock ‘n’ roll

d W Y TH E V IL L E ’ S W IL S O N Edith Bolling Wilson brought her commonsense Wytheville upbringing to Washington and then to the White House when she married President Woodrow Wilson 100 years ago, on Dec. 15, 1915. You can visit her birthplace and museum in Wytheville and learn more about her business acumen and how she aided her husband in running the country after he suffered a debilitating

era lingers, interspersed with country and gospel. Music, dancing, fabulous costumes, and tasty regional fare served by actors make the theater a magical evening or afternoon — a perfect cap to a magical weekend in mountain country.

CO N N E CTIO N

stroke while in office. (edithbollingwilson.org) The Wilson connection is also celebrated across the street at the Bolling Wilson Hotel, a boutique hotel in a historic building that has a definite contemporary flair and beds that visitors praise as the best they ever slept in. The hotel features a rooftop area with great views and the Graze on Main restaurant. (bollingwilsonhotel.com)

e l l i v e h t y W

there’s only one one. visitwytheville.com 1-877-347-8307

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-13

virginia I roberta soslow

Blue Ridge Folklife Festival shines among autumn pleasures Franklin County may be tucked away in its own idyllic corner of Virginia’s Blue Ridge, but the bounty of terrific attractions make a great getaway from the city.

Rocky Mount rocks with top-drawer concerts at the new and acoustically brilliant Harvester B lue R id ge Institute

Performance Center — among the county’s lively stops along the Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail. High-quality, yet affordable, locally made creations from glassworks to oils to jewelry will fill your bags. For cool cultural lore, it’s hard to beat the Blue Ridge Institute’s exhibits about the “Moonshine Capital of the World.” Booker T. Washington National Monument brings biography and history to life.

For outdoor recreation, you can paddle shaded, scenic rivers or cruise placid Smith Mountain Lake with its 500 miles of shoreline. At Bridgewater Plaza, rent a boat or dock one by the boardwalk to hit the shops and chow down at super-friendly Moosie’s or another local restaurant. You can even rent a houseboat to explore the lake for a weekend or a full week.

October brings the Folklife Festival But to completely jam-pack your getaway, visit during the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival on Oct.

24. Edged by spectacularly hued fall foliage, the acreage of Blue Ridge Institute’s 1800s-era living history Farm Museum, across the street from the institute’s quarters, blossoms into a carnival of heritage crafts and traditions.

Guitar and harmonica workshops, moonshine still demos, moonshine maker and chaser tales, sheepherding, blacksmithing, and pumpkin butter and apple butter making are all on tap as 50 craftspeople preserve fine old ways of making useful things.

You’ll also see dozens of classic and vintage cars, many of which roared along Franklin County’s otherwise peaceful country roads and made the area a hot rod hotspot.

“The festival is special because the people participating in the festival are showcasing the folkways and customs that were handed down in their families and communities,” explains the institute’s Roddy Moore. “This is their heritage — not something that was learned in a classroom, but from people in their folk group.”

Making split oak baskets is among the traditional folk arts practiced at the festival.

B lue R id ge Institute

Young Folklife Festival attendees learn the art of weaving among the many different folk arts demonstrated at the event on Oct. 24.

Best Pick in Virginia for…

LakeWatch Plantation, 14734 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA

Music, Festivals and More!

Old-Time Mountain Music

• 29 Virginia Wineries • Live Bands • 85+ Quality Craft & Food Vendors

September 26: 11am-6pm September 27: 11am-5pm Advance Tickets: $25 Taster $20 Non-Taster

Platinum Sponsor

$30 Taster - $25 Non-Taster at Gate (children 12 & under free admission)

Music of the Crooked Road at the Rex Theatre Chestnut Creek School of the Arts New River Trail State Park • Galax Farmers Market Weekly Bluegrass and Old Time Jams Unique Shopping, Dining and Accommodations Special Events including the World Famous Old Fiddler’s Convention!

FREE PARKING

Call 540.721.1203 or visit www.visitsmithmountainlake.com *Rain or Shine *No refunds *No pets * Ticket does not include cost of food

VA-14 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Galax Visitors Center 110 East Grayson Street, Galax, VA 24333

Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm; Friday: 9 am – 7 pm; Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm; Sunday – Closed

888-217-8823 • 276-238-8130

Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention Visitors Guide

Call 888-217-8823 for FREE Visitor Guide

Best pick in Virginia!

888-217-8823 276-238-8130

www.visitgalax.com

www.visitgalax

.com

Ganell Marshall began making her delightful cornshuck dolls in 1960 and has been a festival draw since 1998. Visitors come from afar “to touch base with the way life used to be.” Here in southwestern Virginia, “if we wanted something in particular, we made it,” she explains.

Al Stewart carves Blue Ridge Nature Sticks, beautiful walking sticks and canes embellished with animals carved and painted to look life-like.

“Animals and nature go together,” he says, smiling.

Another standout is the handmade quilts. Pleasant Quilters’ Libby Bondurant loves the festival for “unique

demonstrations that capture history of the area.” And, it’s one the whole family can enjoy together, right down to old-time games that engage mind and body in the sunshine.

Food? Come hungry! Blue Ridge blue ribbon-worthy specialties include kettle coffee, flakey biscuits, cake donuts, mountain stews, fresh cider, crispy-sweet autumn apples, and even fried apple pie.

The Blue Ridge Folklife Festival has been a prized fall tradition for four decades. Spread across Ferrum College’s campus and farm museum

B lue R id ge Institute

continued on page VA-16 Taking a turn at shaving boards for a fence is part of the fun at the festival.

B lue R id ge Institute

Guitarist Wayne Henderson entertains during the Blue Ridge Institute’s Folklife Festival.

JUN 16 NOV 29

20 15 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM THE WINTER’S TALE

F

ollow a winding road through the mountains west of the Shenandoah Valley to an enchanted place that has welcomed visitors for centuries. A place where eagles soar, artists dream, musicians play and weary travelers are rejuvenated.

Make your dreams come true in the County of Bath

DiscoverBath.com

800-628-8092 #CountyofBathVA

SHAKESPEARE’S JOAN OF ARC (HENRY VI, PART 1)

BLACKFRIARS PLAYHOUSE

SUMMER/FALL SEASON

ANTONY & CLEOPATRA

1.877.Much.Ado | www.AmericanShakespeareCenter.com

Gregory Jon Phelps as Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Photo by Michael Bailey. Photo editing by Nancy Houseknecht.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news VA-15

Festival continued from page VA-15 grounds, the festival is held rain or shine, is accessible, and raises money for area nonprofit organizations.

Adult tickets are $10; ages 5 to 15 and 60 and older are $5. Parking is free.

There’s plenty to see at the freeadmission Blue Ridge Institute, with exhibitions rivaling those of big city museums in fascination. The current exhibit spotlights Virginia’s rural family farm canneries, which operated seasonally from the late 1800s to the 1950s.

The well-curated gallery displays vintage photos, canning equipment, and hundreds of beautiful labels, many designed by young art school graduates. The labels depict luscious

fruits and veggies, some delightfully animated.

Representing yesteryear brands such as Pride of Franklin, Smith River Pie Peaches, and Bald Knob, they evoke nostalgia for mature visitors and enchant younger ones. The canneries operated 24 hours a day during the season; for many women, this was their only chance to make money.

Leave time for the institute’s gift shop. Under-$5 apple-themed decor, Day-Glo moonshine T-shirts, oldschool kitchen gear, and other swag will make unique holiday gifts for friends, family, and yourself.

Before you go Franklin Co. Tourism: visitfranklincountyva.org Blue Ridge Folklife Festival: blueridgefolklifefestival.org

Find your fun in Virginia!

Our llamas love visitors!

VACATION RENTALS CABINS • COTTAGES

Sept. 12 10am-5pm Constitution Park, Waynesboro, Va. 540-942-5566

• Farm tours • Fiber classes • Fiber yarn & other products

6.

<

0

/6

$/ 7 52< 287'22 21 56 )5

21

7 9$&$7,2 1 5 (

$ 17

(800) 270-8808 www.FrontRoyalOutdoors.com

Open Barn Oct.10 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A working & teaching llama farm

540-436-3517 llamasjh@gmail.com poseythisisitllamas.com Toms Brook, VA

150 Spectacular Shows Country H Rock H Bluegrass H Comedy & More

Presentations on Fly Casting, conservation, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking destinations and local lodging and recreation vendors.

Downtown Rocky Mount, Virginia www.harvester-music.com Box Office 540-GUITARS

Local BBQ meal with each $ 15 admission.

The Proof is in Our Hometown Melodies From our Crooked Road heritage music trail to performances by Grammywinning artists at the Harvester Performance Center in downtown Rocky Mount, Franklin County’s music scene speaks for itself.

Plan your trip today! www.VisitFranklinCountyVA.org 540.483.3030 |

VA-16 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

civil war I gregg clemmer

Special programs to honor Antietam’s ‘bloodiest day’ The Sesquicentennial may be over, but recent events serve as a reminder that Americans are still “sorting out” the history and legacy of the Civil War. Perhaps no place provides a more appropriate setting for reflection than Western Maryland’s Antietam Battlefield, which is not only the site of the war’s bloodiest day, but the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with 23,000 casualties.

At dawn on Sept. 17, visitors can join park rangers for a special sunrise program followed by hikes exploring the battlefield with its stunning and tragic, yet notable, landmarks. That weekend, Sept. 19–20, take in the living history programs at the Pry House Field Hospital Museum in nearby Keedysville. There, visualize real events while intermingling with veteran reenactors portraying Union Army of the Potomac officers and soldiers.

For a more graphic representation of the war, visit Pry Farm’s original threshing barn, which was used as a field hospital after the battle. Members of the Blue and Gray Hospital Association, a Civil War medicine living history group of surgeons and nurses based in Pennsylvania, will demonstrate a variety of period medical practices, including emergency care, table surgery, and medicine continued on page 20

N ational P ark S ervi ce

Veteran reenactors will portray Gen. McClellan’s Union soldiers at the Pry House Field Hospital Museum, Sept. 19–20.

Why did they call him

tthe american civil war museum

OLD BLUE LIGHT?

Discover the man before the legend...

The VMI Museum Lexington, Virginia www.vmi.edu/museum 540.464.7334

The Stonewall Jackson House Lexington, Virginia www.stonewalljackson.org 540.463.2552

STONEWALL JACKSON

W

hether your interest is in the causes for Confederacy, the struggle for Union or the fight for Freedom, you’ll find it at The American Civil War Museum. In Richmond and Appomattox.

One great museum. Three distinct locations.

ACWM.ORG recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 19

Antietam continued from page 19 manufacture. And, to really grab the imagination, be sure to check the on-site displays of medical tools and implements used during the Battle of Antietam and throughout the Civil War, pondering the efficacy of such devices compared to today’s

medical technology.

The Civil War Impressionists Association will also be encamped on the Pry Farm, portraying Gen. George B. McClellan and his headquarters staff, which used Pry Farm as headquarters during the Battle of Antietam.

Meet and greet the general, who will field your questions. And, be sure to keep a sharp eye out for his boss, President Abraham Lincoln, who is rumored to be coming to consult Little Mac in the battle’s aftermath.

McClellan brought 90,000 troops to the first battle of the war fought on Northern soil, compared with Gen. Robert E. Lee’s 45,000 Confederates. While the battle was effectively a draw, it prevented Lee from advancing into the North and gave Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation.

d CIV IL W A R

Learn more Antietam Event Information: heartofthecivilwar.org Antietam National Battlefield: nps.gov/anti Museum of Civil War Medicine: civilwarmed.org

B R IE F S

John Wilkes Booth Escape Route Tours Sept. 5, 12, 19, and 26. Follow the route John Wilkes Booth took from Ford’s Theater through Southern Maryland and into Virginia’s Caroline County, where he was killed. This is a 12-hour, fully narrated bus tour. (surrattmuseum.org)

Where 19th-century culture mingles with the ghosts of the Lincoln assassination story.

Your most vivid memory of this visit may be one you can take home and view time and again, because wet-plate photographer John Milleker will be demonstrating the Civil War-era collodion process of photography.

For a unique souvenir, get imaged on a oneof-a-kind wet plate. And while there, linger a bit — you just might witness Milleker photographing Lincoln and McClellan in their epic meeting at Sharpsburg, where the president expressed his displeasure that McClellan did not aggressively pursue his foe.

Fall of Richmond Walking Tour Sept. 19 and Oct. 17. Explore what happened in the fateful last days of the Confederate capital and

the initial Federal occupation by visiting the places where major events took place. The walking tour covers about 2 miles, beginning at the Museum of the Confederacy. (acwm.org) Spirits of New Market Tour Oct. 31. Go along for a lantern tour of the New Market Battlefield on the evening of the battle during which cadets from Virginia Military Institute participated. Hear the thoughts of the participants.

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

9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton, MD 20735 Phone: 301-868-1121 www.surrattmuseum.org

of A FREE pattrriottic ic liivve sh hooow w!

DC D C Armory, Arm A Washington, W hii t D.C. D SEPTEMBER 10-12

EagleBankk Arena, Arrena ena Fairfax, F Va Formerly Patriot Center

SEPTEMBER 18-19

Request your FRE EE E tickets here: www.spiritofamerica.mdw..aarmy..m mil 1-866-239-9425 #SOA2015 2 0 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

MARYLAND STATE FAIR Through Sept. 7. Rides and games, traditional fair and local farm fresh food, thousands of exhibits, live thoroughbred horse racing, and entertainment. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Lutherville-Timonium, Md. 410-252-0200, ext. 227, marylandstatefair.com MARYLAND RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Through Oct. 25. The festival includes entertainers, 10 stages, a 3,000 seat jousting arena, craft shops, food and beverage emporiums, games, and attractions. 1821 Crownsville Road, Annapolis, Md. 800-296-7304, rennfest.com

September 2015 Sept. 7 – Labor Day

HOLIDAYS

MONTY ALEXANDER JAZZ FESTIVAL Sept. 3–6. A Labor Day Weekend tradition features Monty Alexander and a host of friends, including Rene Marie, Eric Alexander, Alicia Olatuja, and Caterina Zapponi, plus a free Saturday morning concert by the Conservatory Classic Jazz Band. Easton, Md. chesapeakechambermusic.org LABOR DAY GOSPEL SINGING Sept. 4–6. Bring your chairs to sit back and fill your heart and soul with live gospel bluegrass music at Dominion Valley Park. 481 Dominion Valley Lane, Stuart, Va. 276-694-4245, dominionvalleyllc.com LABOR DAY SPECTACULAR Sept. 4–7. Includes an arts and crafts show, chairlift rides, and live music. 11 Grassy Ridge Road, Wintergreen, Va. 800-2662444, wintergreenresort.com KENSINGTON LABOR DAY ART SHOW Sept. 5–7. Some 120 artists participating, with 500 pieces of artwork in all media on display. Kensington Armory, Kensington, Md. 301-807-6890, montgomeryart.org LABOR DAY CAPITOL CONCERT Sept. 6, 3:00–11:00pm. In addition to patriotic classics, the concert will include music that highlights the American landscape, from Stephen Flaherty’s American River Suite to the little town of Mudville in Casey at the Bat. U.S. Capitol West Lawn, First Street SE, Washington, D.C. kennedy-center.org

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

NATIONAL HARD CRAB DERBY Sept. 4–6. Includes crab races and crab picking contests, a parade, boat docking, a carnival, arts and crafts, seafood, entertainment, and fireworks. 715 Broadway, Crisfield, Md. 410968-2500, nationalhardcrabderby.com EPICURIENCE VIRGINIA Sept. 4–6. Visitors can taste from more than 40 vendors and enjoy expanded food options. Wine seminars will be open for attendees in the education tent sponsored by Virginia Wine, and a VIP tent will feature exclusive tastings. Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg, Va. 703-669-2002, epicvirginia.com AMERICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept. 4–6. An impressive cast of big name acts, featuring more than 30 bands over three days playing on a 60-footwide and 60-foot-tall stage on the beach. Virginia Beach, Va. beachstreetusa.com ITALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL Sept. 4–6. Fantastic foods, special children’s area, grand parade, cultural events, and queen’s pageant. Three stages of on-going entertainment. Clarksburg, W.Va. 304-622-7314, wvihf.com NATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL Sept. 5, 10:00am–10:00pm. The festival will feature more than 100 distinguished authors across many fields and in all genres of writing, with audiences ranging from young readers to adults.

Pavilions will be dedicated to children, history and biography, fiction and mystery, and other genres. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place NW, Washington, D.C. loc.gov/bookfest

ARDEN FAIR Sept. 5, 10:00am–6:00pm. Vendors offering handmade crafts and jewelry and 50 antique and flea market dealers. The fair features music in the grove, food, drink, amusement rides, and children’s games. Wilmington, Del. ardenclub.org/about/arden-fair

One coupon required per purchased ticket at gate.

Children Under 12 fRee with Parents

TimoniumRvshow.com

SEPT. 17-20

MD RECREATIONAL VEHICLE DEALERS ASSOC. Maryland State Fairgrounds – Timonium I-83 One Exit North of I-695 Balto. Beltway 10 AM - 7 PM Thursday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM Sunday fRee paRking

ART AND WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 11–13. Benefiting HART for Animals and Garrett Lakes Arts Festival. Features art, wine tastings, and music. Wine pairing dinners and lodging packages available. Garrett County Fairgrounds, McHenry, Md. 301-387-7729, deepcreekwinefest.com BLACK HERITAGE FESTIVAL Sept. 11–13. Great food, games, entertainment (including The Temptations), and cultural events. Clarksburg, W.Va. 304-6419963, wvbhf.com

PRO SPORTS

BALTIMORE ORIOLES AT HOME Tuesday, Sept. 1, vs. Rays, 7:05pm Wednesday, Sept. 2, vs. Rays, 7:05pm Friday, Sept. 11, vs. Royals, 7:05pm Saturday, Sept. 12, vs. Royals, 1:05pm Sunday, Sept. 13, vs. Royals, 1:35pm Monday, Sept. 14, vs. Red Sox, 7:05pm Tuesday, Sept. 15, vs. Red Sox, 7:05pm Wednesday, Sept. 16, vs. Red Sox, 7:05pm Monday, Sept. 28, vs. Blue Jays, 7:05pm Tuesday, Sept. 29, vs. Blue Jays, 7:05pm Wednesday, Sept. 30, vs. Blue Jays, 7:05pm

Thursday, Sept. 3, vs. Braves, 7:05pm Friday, Sept. 4, vs. Braves, 7:05pm Saturday, Sept. 5, vs. Braves, 7:05pm Sunday, Sept. 6, vs. Braves, 1:35pm Monday, Sept. 7, vs. Mets, 7:05pm Tuesday, Sept. 8, vs. Mets, 7:05pm Wednesday, Sept. 9, vs. Mets, 4:05pm Thursday, Sept. 17, vs. Marlins, 7:05pm Friday, Sept. 18, vs. Marlins, 7:05pm Saturday, Sept. 19, vs. Marlins, 4:05pm Sunday, Sept. 20, vs. Marlins, 1:35pm Monday, Sept. 21, vs. Orioles, 7:05pm Tuesday, Sept. 22, vs. Orioles, 7:05pm Wednesday, Sept. 23, vs. Orioles, 7:05pm Friday, Sept. 25, vs. Phillies, 7:05pm Saturday, Sept. 26, vs. Phillies, 4:05pm Sunday, Sept. 27, vs. Phillies, 1:35pm

aDulT aDmission

SALE

RIVERWALK FREEDOM FESTIVAL Sept. 11–12. Features the Smile for Freedom 5K, followed by “Operation Giveback” (to support active duty and veterans) with firework, live entertainment, and food vendors. Downtown Milford, Del. milfordchamber.com

WASHINGTON NATIONALS AT HOME

RegulaR

RV SUPER

STEAM SHOW DAYS Sept. 10–13. Antique farm machinery, steam and gas engines, and antique cars. Working demonstrations. Flea market and food. 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, ccgovernment.carr.org

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

DISCOUNT COUPON

2 OFF

FESTIVAL OF THE RIVERS Sept. 5–6. Free admission, with music, food, arts and crafts, and various other vendors. Freight Depot on Commerical Street, Hinton, W.Va. 304-309-4101

MIDDLE EASTERN FESTIVAL Sept. 5, 11:00am–10:00pm. 6200 Indian Run Parkway, Alexandria, Va. 571-278-7768, saintaphraim.org

INDIANA COUNTY FAIR Through Sept. 5. Weeklong event offers local farmers, 4-H members, and others the opportunity to show their livestock, crafts, and baked goods in numerous competitions. Other events, too, including tractor pulls, demolition derbies, live entertainment, a carnival, and food. 700 Carter Ave., Indiana, Pa. 724-479-8282, indianacountyfair.com

$ 00

D.C. BLUES FESTIVAL Sept. 5, noon–7:00pm. The main stage will feature Jackson and Oziel, The Mojo Priests, Full Power Blues, James Armstrong, and Sharrie Williams. Carter Barron Amphitheater, 16th Street and Colorado Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. dcblues.org

Aug. 14 - Oct. 31

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

A Knight & A Night for $199 +Tax Overnight Accommations • 2 Adult Tickets to the Faire • $10 Wine Shop gift card • $20 Coins of the realm • Deluxe Continental Breakfast

1475 Lancaster Rd. • Manheim, PA lancasterinnandsuites.com For Reservations: 877-720-1202 Mention Recreation News for discount

BALTIMORE RAVENS AT HOME Sunday, Sept. 27, vs. Bengals, 1:00pm

The Ravens play home games at M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell St., Baltimore, Md. Call 800-927-2795 or visit baltimoreravens.com.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS AT HOME Sunday, Sept. 13, vs. Dolphins, 1:00pm Sunday, Sept. 20, vs. Rams, 1:00pm

The Redskins play home games at FedEx Field, 1600 FedEx Way, Landover, Md. Call 301-276-6050 or visit washingtonredskins.com.

D.C. UNITED AT HOME

Tuesday, Sept. 15, vs. Arabe Unido, 8:00pm Saturday, Sept. 19, vs. Crew SC, 7:00pm D.C. United plays home games at RFK Stadium, 2400 E. Capitol St. SE, Washington, D.C. Call 202-587-5000 or visit dcunited.com.

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 2 1

COWBOY UP Sept. 11–13. Lots of activities, including drill team demonstrations, barrel race exhibitions, horse tack auction, and more.

Southeast Ag Center, Lumberton, N.C. nchorsecouncil.com FOOD AND WINE CELEBRATION Sept. 11–20. Enjoy winery tours, tastings, demonstrations, Chefs’ Dine-Arounds, and dinners. Cape May, N.J. 609-884-5404, capemaymac.org CHILDREN’S DAY Sept. 12, 11:00am–4:00pm. The entire family will enjoy this fun-filled day of learning and excitement featuring handson learning stations, educational presentations, crafts, singalongs, magic shows, and self-guided tours of the gardens and nature walk. Ladew Gardens, Monkton, Md. 410-557-9570, ladewgardens.com HISTORY AND HOPS Sept. 12, noon–6:00pm. Regional and national craft breweries, local gourmet food, live music, and artisans on the grounds of the 246-year-old Wilson-Warner House. Odessa, Del. odessabrewfest.com CRAFT BEER AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept. 12, noon–6:00pm. Choose from more than 120 beers produced by regional and national craft breweries, attend educational seminars, and enjoy live music ranging from smooth jazz to island music, rock ‘n’ roll classics, and rhythm and blues. U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Ave., Annapolis, Md. 410-263-4012, theannapoliscraftbeerandmusicfestival.com ART, WORK, SHOP Sept. 12. Explore art venues and studios around Leonardtown for a full day of hands-on arts workshops with professional artists. Leonardtown, Md. stmarysartscouncil.com ANTIQUE CLASSIC BOAT SHOW AND FESTIVAL Sept. 12, 9:00am–5:00pm. Public boat show includes non-ACBS judging, youth judging, and participants’ awards dinner. Mariners Landing Resort on Smith Mountain Lake, 1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston, Va. 540-297-4900

NEPTUNE’S FALL WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 12–13. Popular features of the festival are the triathlon and surfing competitions, the arts and crafts show, the popular North American Sand Sculpting Championships, the Grand Parade, Youth Day, and three stages of entertainment. Virginia Beach, Va. neptunefestival.com FAIRWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL Sept. 13, 3:00–8:00pm. Art and food vendors will be onsite, along with activities for the kids. 12390 Fairwood Parkway, Bowie, Md. 301-446-3232, pgparks.com SOLOMONS PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL Sept. 15–20. Enjoy plein air artists as they create masterpieces in the open air. View freshly painted canvases of Solomons, Chesapeake, Patuxent, and the countryside. 14550 Solomons Island Road, Solomons, Md. solomonspleinair.com ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY FAIR Sept. 16–20. Booths feature everything from homemade wine and home-brewed beer to furniture and one-of-a-kind Christmas decorations. Kids will enjoy the amusement rides, illusionist show, 4-H Club animals, and interactive car racing. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1450 Generals Highway, Crownsville, Md. 410-923-3400, aacountyfair.org CHARLES COUNTY FAIR Sept. 17–20. Exhibits including livestock and arts and crafts, great entertainment, special events, and activities for all ages including pig races, a carnival, and pony rides. 8440 Fairground Road, La Plata, Md. 301-932-1234, charlescountyfair.com ARTS AND JAZZ FESTIVAL Sept. 19, 11:00am. Stroll the green and enjoy previewing the artwork of Delmarva’s finest artists, sponsored by Delaware

by Hand. Pull up a chair and groove to some of the most talented jazz artists to ever play at the shore. Selbyville, Del. freemanstage.org SHINDIG MUSICAL FESTIVAL Sept. 19. Performers include Godsmack, Stone Temple Piolots, Clutch, Chevelle, Anthrax, Helmet, The Reverend Horton Heat, and more. Carroll Park, Baltimore, Md. theshindigbaltimore.com

BOARDWALK ARTS FESTIVAL Sept. 12, 10:00am. The popular one-day show features jewelry, glass, pottery, watercolor and oil painting, photography, basketry, and woodworking. Boardwalk, Bethany, Del. bethanyfenwick.chambermaster.com/events

HARVEST BREW FEST Sept. 19. Celebrate the rich agricultural and cultural background of southern New Jersey during this all-day event featuring local food, local produce, local beer, local wine, and local talent. Cape May, N.J. 609-884-5404, capemaymac.org

MARYLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Sept. 12–13. Highlights include the Crab Soup Cook-off in a classic Maryland showdown, Xpogo professional pogo stick demonstrations, cooking classes, free stand-up paddle board and SUP yoga demonstrations, and an inaugural “Paddle for Betterment” event. Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, Md. 410-353-9237, mdseafoodfestival.com

SOUTH HILL WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 19. Regional wineries, music, artists, and food celebrate the season. South Hill, Va. visitmeckva.com

BRANDYWINE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Sept. 12–13. Remarkable one-of-a-kind pieces in a wide variety of media are available at an equally broad range of price points.

Live music, a food court, and free admission to the Brandywine Zoo are added bonuses. Wilmington, Del. brandywinearts.com NANTICOKE INDIAN POWWOW Sept. 12–13. A weekend of sharing and learning the native culture and enjoying native foods, as well as shopping with 40 vendors from all over the United States. Storytelling, drumming, singing, and dancing. Millsboro, Del. nanticokeindians.org

AIR SHOW & BIPLANE RIDES

WINE AND OYSTER FESTIVAL Sept. 19–20. Sample 14 area wines, tour Stratford Hall, and enjoy oysters any way you can imagine. Plenty of other activities. Stratford Hall Plantation, Stratford, Va. stratfordhall.org KING STREET ART FESTIVAL Sept. 19–20. An outdoor art gallery with original fine artwork by more than 250 artists from the U.S. and abroad. Enjoy live music, an art giveaway, and interactive art activities. Old Town Alexandria, Va., on King Street from Washington Street to the Potomac River waterfront. 703-746-3301, artfestival.com

LEAF PEEPING FESTIVAL Sept. 25–27. Beautiful leaves plus 2K/5K run, car show, parade, Saturday Octoberfest, duck race, and many more activities. Canaan Valley State Park. Davis, W.Va. canaanvalley.org BALTIMORE BOOK FESTIVAL Sept. 25–27. Author appearances and book signings, exhibitors and booksellers, non-stop readings on multiple stages, cooking demos by celebrity chefs, poetry readings and workshops, walking tours, storytellers and hands-on projects for kids, live music, and food, beer, and wine. The Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Md. baltimorebookfestival.com KUNTA KINTE HERITAGE FESTIVAL Sept. 26, 10:00am–7:00pm. Enjoy this celebration of AfricanAmerican heritage that includes cultural music and dance, world foods, and a marketplace of African and Afro-centric wares. Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis, Md. kuntakinte.org INDIAN HEAD 125TH ANNIVERSARY Sept. 26, noon–6:00pm. Celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Naval Support Facility at Indian Head, Md. Time capsule opening, military exhibits, children’s activities, and live entertainment from the Navy Commodores Jazz Ensemble and the Sam Grow Band. Indian Head Village Green Pavilion, Indian Head, Md. charlescountymd.gov/calendar SHINE AND WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 26. Moonshine and wine tastings are paired with live music at Chase City Municipal Airport, Va. visitmeckva.com CENTRAL PA RAGTIME MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept. 25–26. Rockhill Furnace, Pa. rockhilltrolley.org

814-447-9576,

RIVERFEST AT HISTORIC ST. MARY’S CITY Sept. 26, 11:00am–4:00pm. One hundred and one ways to protect and enjoy our waterways. Music, activities, and muster demos by St. Marie’s City Militia. Featuring a militia reenactment of the only English Civil War battle fought in the Colonies, the Battle of the Severn. St. Mary’s City, Md. smrwa.org/riverfest.html SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 27, 11:00am–5:00pm. This year, 27 Virginia wineries will be participating, as well as 85 juried craft and food vendors.

Three popular live bands will also be on hand to entertain festivalgoers. 14374 Booker T. Washington Highway, Moneta, Va. visitsmithmountainlake.com

NOW SHOWING DECOY SHOW Sept. 5–6. The Decoy Carvers’ & Artists’ Association puts on an always-popular show over Labor Day weekend. Chincoteague, Va. chincoteaguechamber.com MARYLAND HORSE AND PONY SHOW Sept. 9–13. Maryland’s oldest horse and pony show. 14900 Pennsylvania Ave., Upper Marlboro, Md. 443-417-7976, marylandhorseandponyshow.com

ST. MARY’S COUNTY FAIR Sept. 24–27. Celebrate St. Mary’s County heritage at this traditional county fair. Livestock, home arts, flowers, field crops, 4-H Club and school exhibits, horse pulls, and a carnival. 42455 Fairgrounds Road, Leonardtown, Md. smcfair.somd.com

MARYLAND RV SHOW Sept. 17–20. See thousands of new RVs from 85 brand names.

See fifth-wheels, pop-ups, mini-mobile homes, and large RVs. A military ID gets free admission on Friday. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium, Md. mdrv.com

SMOKEOUT 500 BBQ FESTIVAL Sept. 25–26. Features barbecue professionals and amateur competitors, a large arts, crafts, and business vendor area, beer garden, and concert area. Delaware International Every Sunday Speedway, Delmar, Del. May through October delawareracing.com

OCEANA AIR SHOW Sept. 19–20. Everything for aircraft and aviation enthusiasts from flight demonstrations to parachute shows and pyrotechnics. Kids’ Fest offers children the chance to sumo wrestle, paint faces, play in bounce houses, and climb rock walls. Virginia Beach, Va. oceanaairshow.com

46th 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.

CHECK OUT OUR BALLOON FESTIVAL AUGUST 16-17

www.FlyingCircusAirshow.com

$2.00 OFF ONE ADMISSION WITH THIS COUPON Not valid with any other offer.

K ent. Co. Tourism

RN

2 2 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

The Amish Country Bike Tour on Sept. 12 around Dover, Del., is great for all ages and abilities.

SPORTS CARD AND COLLECTIBLE SHOW Sept. 20, 10:00am–3:00pm. More than 50 of the area’s finest dealers. Aetna Fire Hall, 400 Ogletown Road, Newark, Del. 302983-2636, a2zshows1.com

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES SOUTHERN MARYLAND CENTURY Pedal through hundreds of acres of gently rolling forested hills and tidal bottomlands to the panoramic vista of the Potomac River. Rides include 17-, 32-, 46-, 60-, and 100-mile options.

100 Walter Thomas Road, Indian Head, Md. 301-743-5511, ohbike.org/century AMISH COUNTRY BIKE TOUR Sept. 12. One of the top East Coast cycling events that meets the needs of all ages and abilities. Dover, Del. 800-233-5368, amishcountrybiketour.com FALL GARDEN DAY Sept. 19, 9:00am–3:00pm. There will be numerous local plant vendors to satisfy your gardening needs. A silent auction, bake sale, live music, and food add to the festivities. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-6425173, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring SAVAGE MAN TRIATHLON Sept. 19–20. Two of the toughest triathlons tackle the terrain at Deep Creek Lake State Park, Md. savagemantriathlon.com FOSSIL FIELD EXPERIENCE PROGRAMS Sept. 19, Oct. 24. The program begins at the Cove Point Lighthouse at 9:00am, when a trained guide will help participants find and identify fossils. Solomons, Md. 410-326-2042, ext. 41, calvertmarinemuseum.com/215/fossil-field-experience U.S. WORLD CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS Sept. 19–27. During cycling’s pinnacle event, athletes will compete in 12 championship races across nine days. Richmond, Va. visitrichmondva.com AUTUMN COLOR MOUNTAIN TRAIL RIDES Sept. 26. Timberline stables will be open daily, or bring your own horses. There will be live western and country music on the deck of the main lodge in full view of Herz Mountain. Timberline Four Seasons Resort, 254 Four Seasons Drive, Davis, W.Va. 304866-4801, timberlineresort.com APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB Leads hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and conservation events in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. amc-dc.org 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

S E R VIN G

W AS H IN G T O N

D C , M AR Y L AN D

CENTER HIKING CLUB Various hikes and locations in the D.C. metropolitan area. 703751-3971, centerhikingclub.org

JAZZ ARTIST MARSHALL KEYS Sept. 20, 4:00–6:00pm. Mead Memorial Episcopal Church, 322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria, Va. meadechurch.org

FREESTATE HAPPY WANDERERS Various walking trails and locations in Maryland. 410-437-2164, ava.org/clubs/freestate

ALICE’S RESTAURANT 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR Sept. 29, 7:30pm. Arlo Guthrie brings his tour to The Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa. 717-337-8200, gettysburgmajestic.org

MOUNTAIN CLUB OF MARYLAND Leads weekly day hikes, overnight backpack hikes, bike and canoe trips, cabin, car, and tent camping, and the maintenance of trails. mcomd.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 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 WASHINGTON AREA ROADSKATERS Year-round; check website for dates and times. Skaters leave from White House, Washington, D.C. meetup.com/washingtonarea-roadskaters

SHAKESPEARE ON MAIN STREET Sept. 5. Performance by Brown Box Theatre of The Taming of the Shrew. 14 S. Main St., Berlin, Md. 443-880-4328, brownboxtheatre.org

MUSIC Orchestra/Band/Classical/Choral FRANK SINATRA JR. Sept. 2, 8:00pm. Frank Sinatra Jr. keeps that elegant crooning style of jazz, swing, and big band alive with classics including Strangers in the Night and New York, New York. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, Va. 703-255-1900, wolftrap.org IMANI WINDS Sept. 18, 7:30pm. The Majestic Theater, 25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa. 717-337-8200, gettysburgmajestic.org SYMPHONIC DANCES FROM WEST SIDE STORY Sept. 19–20. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, Md. strathmore.org

Popular/Other DIANA ROSS Sept. 15, 8:00pm. From girl band glory in the ’60s to a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Diana Ross — singing sensation, movie star, Broadway legend, and humanitarian — reigns supreme as a cultural icon and a national treasure. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, Md. strathmore.org

AN D

VIR G IN IA

ATTENTION FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, MILITARY PERSONNEL OR FEDERAL CONTRACTORS Did you know that the #1 reason for security clearance denial is financial problems?

Our firm handles clients who have concerns about their security clearance.

We practice consumer bankruptcy and security clearance law and know how to help those persons with financial problems retain a federal security clearance.

AMMERMAN & GOLDBERG Attorneys: Harris S. Ammerman and Joseph M. Goldberg H ab l a E sp añ ol • S p anish sp eak ing staf f

1115 M assach u setts Ave. N W W ash ington D C , 2 0005

E -m ail : H S AAB A@ AO L . C O M W eb S ite: www. am m erm angol d b erg. com e are a debt relief agency

COMEDIAN ARNEZ J AT THE DC IMPROV Sept. 2–5. His gift for telling and acting out jokes gives him broad appeal, which was on display during his two seasons as host of BET’s Comic View. 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-296-7008, dcblues.org

WANDERBIRDS HIKING CLUB Sundays. Various hikes and locations in Virginia. 703-242-0315, wanderbirds.org

BANKRUPTCY & SECURITY CLEARANCE

(202) 638-0606

Theater

e help people file for bankruptcy relief under the bankruptcy code

FREE PHONE CONSULTATION FREE CREDIT REPORT

L ad ew G ard ens

l e v a r T e Tim to Fun!

Children’s Day at Ladew Gardens on Sept. 12 features hands-on learning stations.

M A RY L A N D R E N A I S S A N C E F E S T I VA L NEAR ANNAPOLIS, IN CROWNSVILLE, MD

RY! HURe the Whil asts!

Fun L

NOW OPEN!

800-296-7304 MarylandRenaissanceFestival.com

Saturdays & Sundays through October 25th 10 am-7 pm • Rain or Shine

Visit us on...

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 2 3

AN INSPECTOR CALLS Sept. 9–Oct. 11. The ultimate detective story. The respectable Birling family is at home hosting a dinner party in honor of the daughter’s recent engagement. An unforeseen knock at the door brings a sudden stop to the celebration. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St., Baltimore, Md. everymantheatre.org

N ational P ark S ervi ce

YERMA Sept. 10–Oct. 4. Adaptation by Fernando J. Lopez. In Spanish, with English surtitles. Gala Hispanic Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-234-7174, galatheatre.org

Dance SQUARE DANCE OPEN HOUSE PARTY Sept. 17 and 24, 7:00–9:00pm. An activity that combines fun, friendship, and physical and mental fitness into one and welcomes all ages, from 9 to 90. 303 Adclare Road, Rockville, Md. 301-761-4108, rockvillesquaredance.com HANGAR DANCE AND DINNER Sept. 19, 6:30pm. Emcee Ken Jackson, host of WYPR’s In the Mood big band radio program, and the 20-piece big band Ain’t Misbehavin’ will take partygoers back to the 1940s. Attendees are invited to dress in their 1940s-era fashions. Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum, Middle River, Md. 410-682-6122, wingsovermaryland.org ADULT DROP-IN DANCE CLASSES The Dance Institute of Washington, 3400 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-371-9656, danceinstitute.org DANCE PROGRAMS Weekends, 7:30–11:30pm. Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md. fridaynightdance.org THE WASHINGTON BALLET Call for performances and times. 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-362-3606, washingtonballet.org

Exhibits Resources and Institutions Directory Antietam National Battlefield marks America’s bloodiest single day Sept. 19–20 with special activities.

AMERICAN CIVIL WAR CENTER AT HISTORIC TREDEGAR 490 Tredegar St., Richmond, Va. 804-788-6480, tredegar.org

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY MUSEUM AT THE KATZEN ARTS CENTER Ward Circle, at Massachusetts and Nebraska avenues, Washington, D.C. 202-885-1300, american.edu/cas/katzen AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, Md. 410-244-1900, avam.org THE BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org CARRIAGE HOUSE GALLERY AT EMLEN PHYSICK ESTATE 1048 Washington St., Cape May, N.J. 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278, capemaymac.org CARROLL ARTS CENTER TEVIS GALLERY 91 Main St., Westminster, Md. 410-848-7272, carrollcountyartscouncil.org HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDEN Independence Avenue and Seventh Street SW, Washington, D.C. 202-633-1000, hirshhorn.si.edu LADEW TOPIARY GARDENS 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Md. 410-557-9570, ladewgardens.com MARYLAND HALL FOR THE CREATIVE ARTS 801 Chase St., Annapolis, Md. 410-263-5544, marylandhall.org MONTPELIER ARTS CENTER 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-953-1993, arts.pgparks.com NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART National Mall between Third and Seventh streets at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 202-737-4215, nga.gov NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CIVIL WAR MEDICINE 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick, Md. 301-695-1864, civilwarmed.org THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION 1600 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-387-2151, phillipscollection.org REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM OF MARYLAND AFRICANAMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE 830 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, Md. 443-263-1800, africanamericanculture.org

Enter to Win A 2-Night Getaway for Two!

CONTEST RULES

Your Founders Inn Getaway Includes: Two nights for two Two breakfasts for two Free internet & parking Outdoor pool (seasonal) 20% off spa treatments at Flowering Almond Spa Fitness center Indoor pool 2 4 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

1. Fill out coupon at right legibly and completely.

2. Mail to RecNews Contest Dept., 1607 Sailaway Circle, Baltimore, MD 21221 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 below and enter “SEPTEMBER CONTEST” in the subject line. Entries must be received by 9/17/2015.

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

Limit one entry per household. 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, and notified on September, 17, 2015. Winner must respond by September, 24, 2015 to claim prize, or prize forfeits to a runner up. Offer valid through September 1, 2016. Includes weekend stays. Other restrictions may apply.

CONGRATULATIONS AUGUST WINNER! Fayetteville Getaway Naomi Dubiel of Accokeek, MD

Name ________________________________________ Address Line 1 ___________________________________ Address Line 2 ___________________________________ City _________________________________________ State ___________ Zip Code ________________________ Phone ________________________________________ Email ________________________________________ NOTE: Phone and email are required for notification purposes only.

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.

SHAKESPEARE GALLERY Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St., Washington, D.C. 202-544-7077, folger.edu SURRATT HOUSE MUSEUM TOURS Surratt House Museum, 9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton, Md., 301-868-1121, surratt.org THE TEXTILE MUSEUM 2320 S St. NW, Washington, textilemuseum.org

D.C.

202-667-0441,

TUDOR PLACE HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDEN 1644 31st St., Georgetown, Washington, D.C. 202-965-0400, ext.

109, tudorplace.org VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum THE WALTERS ART MUSEUM 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org

Featured Exhibitions

ANTIETAM LIVING HIOSTORY Sept. 19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20. Reenactors portray Union Army of the Potomac at Pry House Field Hospital and Pry Farm. Keedysville, Md. heartofthecivilwar.org POW/MIA AWARENESS DAY Sept. 19, 11:00amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5:00pm. Guest speaker will be Jessica Lynch, a former U. S. Army soldier who served in the 2003 invasion of Iraq by U.S. and allied forces. National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford, Va. 540-586-3329, visitbedford.com COURT DAYS Sept. 19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20. When court convened in the 18th century, the town turned out. Take part in role-play trials as a juror, witness, or even the accused, and experience historic tax protests, militia musters, and artillery demonstrations. Yorktown Victory Center, 200 State Route 1020, Yorktown, Va. historyisfun.org FRONTIER WEEKEND. Sept. 25â&#x20AC;&#x201C;26. A weekend in the Old West with cow camp, chuck wagon, and a live shoot-out on horseback. Timberline Four Seasons Resort, 254 Four Seasons Drive, Davis, W.Va. 304-866-4801, timberlineresort.com

TOURS HISTORIC TROLLEY FULL TOUR Through Sept. 10. Thirty-five-minute or 60-minute tour of historic Lewes, Del. 302-645-7670, historiclewes.org BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Sept. 6, 3:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:30pm. Staff takes you behind the curtain, showing you the secret spaces at historic Montpelier Mansion. 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-446-3313, pgparks.com EVENING GARDEN TOUR Sept. 11, 5:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;6:30pm. Master Gardener docents highlight the summer sights, fragrances, and sounds at the end of the day, when changing light accentuates different plants and landscape features. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Va. 703-642-5173, fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring TOUR DE SUSSEX Sept. 19, 8:00am. Southern Delawareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier cycling event.

Rest stop highlights include Dogfish Brewery, Irish Eyes, Papa Grandeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and Trap Pond. Georgetown, Del. dtcc.edu

DELAWARE AND THE WAR OF 1812 Ongoing. Designed to raise awareness of the important role that the state played as the front line in the defense of the economically vital Delaware Valley, the exhibit utilizes maps, illustrations, and artifacts from the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collections to examine the history of the war within Delaware and its surrounding waters.

Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, Del. 302736-7400, history.delaware.gov

OLD MARYLAND FARM ACTIVITIES Old Maryland Farm, 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, Md. 301-218-6770 or 301-699-2544, pgparks.com

POSEY QUILT, EARLY 19TH CENTURY Through Sept. 7. An early 19th-century American pieced quilt made of silk dress fabrics from a variety of early American women and Posey family members. Dumbarton House, 2715 Q St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-337-2288, dumbartonhouse.org

AVIATION SPEAKER SERIES Sept. 7, 7:00pm. Features author Jon Guttman as he recounts the importance of aircraft during World War II. Lockheed Martin Auditorium, 2323 Eastern Blvd., Middle River, Md. 410-682-6122

O THER

THE YEAR OF FEAR Sept. 9, noonâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;1:00pm. Joe Urschel, executive director of the National Law Enforcement Museum, discusses The Year of Fear, which is a thrilling true story of gangsters and lawmen. McGowan Theater, 700 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-357-5000, washington.org

MARYLAND BATTLE OF THE BEAST Through Sept. 30. Full-fledged rodeo, bull riding, and barrel racing. Bleacher seating, so bring a blanket to sit in comfort. Fun for the entire family. 10530 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge, Md. 301-898-9841, jbarwranch.com

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION Through Sept. 13. This exhibit explores how 20th-century photographers captured the immediate and the transitory, distilling key narratives into evocative images of the American experience. The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-387-2151, phillipscollection.org WOMEN TO WATCH 2015 Through Sept. 13. This exhibition explores the relationships between women, art, and nature, examining contemporary women artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; complex views and inventive treatments related to the theme of nature. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-7835000, nmwa.org FRONT ROOM: SARA VANDERBEEK Through September. Featuring sculpture and photography, the installation is inspired by VanDerBeekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research on the BMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org ON PAPER: SPIN, CRINKLE, PLUCK Through September. This exhibition showcases eight prints and drawings whose images are the result of a specific action or intention rather than a depiction of the action. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-5731700, artbma.org FELIX BRACQUEMOND ď&#x161;ź IMPRESSIONIST INNOVATOR Through Oct. 4. A selection of more than 80 works on paper and tableware objects, among them Bracquemondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most imaginative portraits, landscapes, and groundbreaking reinterpretations of the traditions of French art and decorative arts. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Blvd., Richmond, Va. 804-340-1400, vmfa.museum MOUNT VERNON IN 3ď&#x161;şD: THEN & NOW Through Nov. 20. The show features 20 rare historic images from Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection dating from the 1850s to the early 1900s, presented in 3-D form. George Washingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mount Vernon, Va. mountvernon.org/3D BEARD WARS Through Nov. 30. This photography exhibition faces off portraits of Civil War generals against those of League members.

The Valentine, Richmond, Va. 804-649-0711, thevalentine.org INGENUE TO ICON Through Dec. 31. In this special exhibition, more than 60 dresses and perfectly paired accessories, archival materials, and portraits illustrate the evolution of 20th-century fashion through the lens of one of its most prominent women, Marjorie Merriweather Post. Hillwood Estate Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-686-5807, hillwoodmuseum.org

History WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COOKINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; AT BANNEKERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CABIN Sept. 5, 1:00â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3:00pm. Chat with costumed interpreters preparing dinner on the cabinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearth. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Ave., Catonsville, Md. 410-8871081, benjaminbanneker.wordpress.com

MONTPELIER MANSION TOURS Sundays, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Montpelier Mansion, Route 197 and Muirkirk Road, Laurel, Md. 301-953-1376

Lectures/Workshops/Classes

HAWKS, EAGLES, AND FALCONSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MIGRATION Sept. 27, 1:00â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:00pm. Learn more about these mighty predators of the sky, bald eagles rebounding from near extinction and the numerous varieties of hawks that pass this way each year. 6908 Belair Road, Baltimore, Md. 410-882-5376, marylandnature.org/nature-connections STAINED-GLASS CLASS Ongoing. Mat About You Gallery, 3774 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, Md. 410-313-8860, mataboutyou.com ADULT ART COURSES Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-573-1700, artbma.org GALLERY TALKS Thursdays, 1:00pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00pm. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, Md. 443-5731700, artbma.org SECOND SUNDAY SPOTLIGHT TALKS Second Sunday of every month, 2:00pm. Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Md. 410-547-9000, thewalters.org TRADITIONAL ART CLASSES Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster, Md. 410-386-3880, carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org

Like Like Like Like Like Us.

CAPE MAY, N.J. 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

GRANDPARENTS DAY WEEKEND Sept. 12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;13. Enjoy the trolleys with grandparents who may have ridden them. Rockhill Furnace, Pa. 814-447-9576, rockhilltrolley.org MARYLAND LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE Sept. 19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20, 8:00amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6:00pm. Visit any or all of 10 Maryland lighthouses and receive a special souvenir at each. cheslights.org WOOL FROLIC AND YARN SALE Sept. 19, 10:00amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:00pm. Look for live animals, fiber vendors, and demonstrations on yarn dying, knitting, crocheting, spinning, and weaving, as well as exhibits and demonstrations of flax processing and shearing. Landis Valley Museum, Lancaster, Pa. 717-569-0401, landisvalleymuseum.org SMITHSONIAN MAGAZINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUSEUM DAY Sept. 26. Museum-goers can download one free ticket, good for two people. Participating museums nationwide. smithsonianmag.com/museumdaylive

STR TRATFORD T TRAT RA AT TF FO ORD D HAL ALL LLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 9T TH H AN NNUAL NN NUA U L

SEPTEMBER 19 & 20, 2015

SATURDAY 11AM - 6PM & SUNDAY 11AM - 5PM

/M\ aW]Z LQ[KW]V\ML IL^IVKML \QKSM\[ WVTQVM I\ ___ [\ZI\NWZLPITT WZO ]V\QT ! )L^IVKML \QKSM\ XZQKM[ IZM <I[\MZ

6WV <I[\MZ 3QL[ aMIZ[ 3QL[ ]VLMZ .ZMM /ZMI\ 0W][M :L ;\ZI\NWZL >) ___ [\ZI\NWZLPITT WZO ! ;QOVI\]ZM ;XWV[WZ

-^MV\ ;XWV[WZ[

All AMERICAN Harley-Davidson

1V 8IZ\VMZ[PQX _Q\P

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 2 5

m ary l and

I f ran seve rn- levy

Start the fall season by â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cooling offâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garrett County Summer may be coming to an end, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not time to hibernate.

Few places have â&#x20AC;&#x153;coolerâ&#x20AC;? ways to enjoy the start of autumn than Western Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County.

Whoever said the ideal getaway is an ocean surrounded by mountains

might have been thinking of Garrett County, at the end of Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s western panhandle. While Deep Creek Lake is not exactly an ocean, its 69 miles of shoreline surrounding the nearly 4,000 acres of water are close enough for most visitors.

The boating and fishing are good,

W isp R esort

and the view from the rental cabins and condos is beautiful in most any season.

The Savage and Youghiogheny rivers (just call it â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Youghâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; everyone else does) flow through Garrett County with outfitters offering all sorts of water adventures. It might be a bit brisk for tubing float trips, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kayaking and many levels of white water rafting. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a mountaintop manmade kayak course at Wisp Resort.

Take advantage of fewer crowds and special packages at Wisp Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two golf courses.

([WHQG <RXU :HHNHQG 6XPPHU LV WKH SHUIHFW WLPH WR WUHDW \RXUVHOI WR D ORQJ ZHHNHQG

1DY\ *DWHZD\ ,QQV 6XLWHV LV UHDG\ IRU \RX 9KVJ 9KVJ IWGUV TQQOU CV NQECVKQPU YQTNFYKFG 0)+5 QHHGTU V V N VK NF KF 0)+5 HH Ĺ? #HHQTFCDNG TCVGU Ĺ? 2TQHGUUKQPCNN[ OCPCIGF EQOHQTVCDNG CEEQOOQFCVKQPU Ĺ? 6JG COGPKVKGU QH EQOOGTEKCN JQVGNU Ĺ? # YGNEQOKPI CVOQURJGTG CPF UVGNNCT EWUVQOGT UGTXKEG

Also at Wisp, you can try canopy courses, Segway tours, disc golf, and ride the Mountain Coaster. Its Lodestone Golf Course was recognized as the No. 2 course in Maryland by Golfweek magazine.

The lake is surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, with their wild, undeveloped beauty. Six state parks almost demand that you lace up hiking boots and take to the trails.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also camping, nature activities, and boating. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d rather let your car do the heavy climbing, download an available Fall Foliage Map from visitdeepcreek.com for a scenic drive.

The Deep Creek Art and Wine Festival is Sept. 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;13, with Saturday offering the main events.

Visitors can sip more than 200 wines, with an emphasis on Maryland vintners. At least 30 regional and local artisans will display their craft and art. Expect to find jewelry, wood carvings, furniture, pottery, and paintings for sale. Live music and kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities round out the schedule.

Non-drinkers and children are admitted for a flat $10 charge; kids under 12 are free. Check the website for ticket options for drinkers. (deepcreekwinefest.com)

Wildly different events G arrett Co. Tourism

Be enticed by a natural swimming hole.

The following weekend, Sept.

19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20, sees two vastly different events. The town of Friendsville,

9G 9GNEQOG Ĺ? #EVKXG FWV[ CPF TGVKTGF OKNKVCT[ TGUGTXKUVU CPF &Q& GORNQ[GGU Ĺ? $WUKPGUU 6&; IWGUVU QP QHHKEKCN VTCXGN Ĺ? 5RCEG CXCKNCDNG NGKUWTG VTCXGNGTU Ĺ? 5RQPUQTGF HTKGPFU CPF HCOKNKGU

PQ QTFGTU TGSWKTGF

%TGCVKPI EQOHQTVCDNG IWGUV UGTXKEGU HQT VJQUG YG UGTXG 7RGD\ DQG 7RPRUURZ

6WD\ ZLWK XV PDNH \RXU UHVHUYDWLRQ QRZ %CNN 0#8; $'& QT XKUKV YYY FQFNQFIKPI PGV ;QW ECP CNUQ HKPF WU D[ UECPPKPI VJKU EQFG YKVJ [QWT UOCTVRJQPG

Take a Day? Take a Weekend?

You need to escape, but not too far away!

Check out this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events in Carroll County!

THE MARYLAND WINE FESTIVALÂŽ September 19 | 10am-6pm September 20 | 11am-6pm Carroll County Farm Museum Westminster

WESTMINSTER FALLFEST September 24 & 25 | 6pm-10pm September 26 | 10am-10pm September 27 | Noon-6pm Downtown City Park

800-272-1933 | www.CarrollCountyTourism.org 2 6 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

10TH MARYLAND MICROBREWERY FESTIVAL September 26 | 11am-6pm Union Mills Homestead & Grist Mill Union Mills

once Maryland’s westernmost outpost, celebrates its 250th anniversary with a town-wide party, parade, and festival, culminating in a fireworks display on Saturday night.

Meanwhile, the SavageMan Triathlon takes over Deep Creek Lake State Park with two events. On Saturday, it’s a 30.0 triathlon incorporating a .9mile swim, 22.98-mile bike ride, and 6.2-mile run, and that’s the easy contest. On Sunday, it’s the legendary 70.0 triathlon, considered the world’s most savage and beautiful. If you are into figures, it’s a 1.2-mile swim, 13.1-mile run, and 55.7-mile bike ride — in one day. Competitors bike the

“Westernport Wall,” the steepest climb in all triathlons with a maximum grade of 31 percent. Most competitors must walk part of it or take a slightly easier alternate route. (savagemantriathlon.com) The height of the seasonal celebrations is the Autumn Glory Festival, Oct. 7–11. Considered one of the top community celebrations in the country, it’s a weekend of casual, down-home fun, with two parades, concerts, performances from clogging

to puppetry, a tournament of bands, car show, dogsled demos, antique and craft shows and sales, church dinners, and Oktoberfest parties.

Lodging packages and other ideas for a visit to Garrett County and Deep Creek Lake are at the very useful and easy-to-navigate website.

For more information Garrett Co. Tourism: visitdeepcreek.com

Art & Adventure

Two exciting events on Maryland’s scenic Eastern Shore September 26

PiverFest CH ESTE RTOWN MA RYLAND

Step back in time with Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum (JPPM) as we relive life in the early 1800s. In 1814, war reached the shores of Southern Maryland. At the mouth of St. Leonard Creek, on property that is now part of JPPM, Maryland’s largest naval engagement occurred.

Se

10

2015 2 20 0 5

$3/ person or $10/car

M

M

A fun-filled day along the picturesque waterfront of historic Chestertown Oct 24–25 & Oct 31–Nov 1 16th Annual Fine Arts & Crafts

Studio Tour

50 Artists & Artisans open their studios Visit ChestertownRiverArts.org or call 410-778-6300 to learn more.

For information or tickets contact Carol Frederick at 410-586-8515

Money raised supports JPPM educational programs

10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard, MD 20685 www.jefpat.org 410-586-8501 jef.pat@maryland.gov

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 2 7

d el aware I mich elle teel

Have some autumn fun at Southern Delaware festivals

P ortraits in th e S and

The Sea Witch Festival parade is great costumed fun for the whole family.

Make your money go further!

Retire to Sussex County Delaware.

Don’t Be Scared...

Enjoy golfing, fishing and the beaches of Lewes, Rehoboth, Bethany, Fenwick & more

Kid’s Favorit e

• Up to $12,500 of retirement income is tax exempt • Very low property tax • No sales tax

Call or email me to learn more!

Kevin Willner, Realtor 18756 Coastal Hwy, Unit 6 Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 kevinjcw@gmail.com 410-340-2201 Mobile 302-226-3770 Brokerage 877-310-SOLD Toll Free www.delawareshores.com

Autumn in Southern Delaware can’t be beat.

Cooler air, less traffic, better prices, and fantastic festivals make this part of the First State a great fall getaway choice.

Check out the latest festival, the SoDel Fest on Oct. 17. Dubbed the “hippest food, wine, and music event on DelMarVa,” SoDel Fest 2015 is an event that gives all three elements their due.

Hosted by former Bad Company bassist Paul Cullen (now a food, wine, and music aficionado), the event promises an afternoon of fun featuring samplings and demonstrations by renowned chefs and foodies, a food truck gathering, wine pairings, local beer tastings, and a musical lineup of locally and nationally recognized talent.

Sample cuisine from at least 10 of the areas greatest restaurants and enjoy cooking and food demonstrations by the Food Channel’s “Singing Chef” Neil Fuentes, James Beard-nominated chef Hari Cameron, and others at the top of their game.

Pair the amazing cuisine with wines from vineyards in Italy, France, Spain, and California.

Manfredo San Bonifacio, from Tuscany, offers a private look into a vineyard owner’s life. You can even hear how his family was intertwined with Romeo and Juliet. Relax with a tasting led by fine wine specialist Joseph Lertch. Next, take Wine 101 with local wine geek John McDonald and blind tasting with Level II sommelier Mike Zygmonski.

Music for the event will be provided by Lower Case Blues, Vinyl Shockley, Bryan Russo, and Bruce Anthony, with a special appearance by Erin

!

FALL

E

ning d-Win oo r a w A al...T Festiv o List!

T Many

in love

very season (and experience) is one to remember at the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel. We’re open 52 weeks a year—and so is our Victoria’s Restaurant.

Call (800) 33 BEACH or (302) 227-7169 or visit www.boardwalkplaza.com for great package pricing.

To Have Fun At The

Beaches are just the beginning.

We invite you to explore a place we call home. Experience the warmth of our friends and neighbors. Taste our multitudes of flavors. Get lost around the heart of our community, The Circle. You’ll see what we mean when we say: Georgetown, Delaware. Well Rounded.

Join us for these upcoming events.

Georgetown Farmers’ Market/Concerts in The Park May–September 2015 Historic Georgetown Art Crawl/Farmer & Foodie Festival September 13, 2015 Wings & Wheels—A Fall Festival October 2–3, 2015 Georgetown Christmas Parade December 3, 2015

Visit us at www.georgetowncoc.com or call 302-856-1544.

Sea Witch Festival!

October 23-25, 2015 Costume Parade · Dog Parade Sea Witch Hunt · Live Entertainment 5K Run · Artisans & Vendors Fiddlers’ Festival · Beach Games and Much More!!!

Schedule of activities at

SeaWitchFestival.com Funded in Part by Southern Delaware Tourism

2 8 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

2 Olive Avenue & the Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Dickins from Manhattan Transfer.

The festival is noon–4:30pm at Independence Hall & Grounds in Millsboro, Del. Tickets start at $75 per person and the event benefits the Rotary Club’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative and Meals on Wheels. (sodelfest.com) September also hosts many other events in Southern Delaware.

Sept. 11 — The 15th annual Riverwalk “Freedom” Festival in Milford features the Smile for Freedom 5K, fireworks, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, bike and car show, and kids’ corner.

Sept. 12 — More than 100 artists from around the country bring their creations to the 37th Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival, which features jewelry, glass, pottery, watercolor and oil painting, photography, basketry, and woodworking.

Sept. 12–13 — The 38th annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow in Millsboro offers a weekend of sharing and learning Native American culture and enjoying native foods, as well as storytelling, drumming, singing, and dancing. Some 40 vendors from all over the country present a great shopping opportunity.

Sept. 12 — The Woodland Ferry Festival in Seaford features pedestrian ferry rides, a silent auction, museum, children’s activities, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, and demonstrations.

Sept. 13 — Historic Georgetown’s Art Crawl is a rain-or-shine juried art event, and features artists and artisans, area art leagues, and art guilds.

It is held in conjunction with the annual Farmer & Foodie Festival, which celebrates local farmers continued on page 30

S outh ern D elaware Tourism

The Bethany Beach Boardwalk Art Festival brings more than 100 national artists to Southern Delaware on Sept. 12.

Our rates have cooled, but the water is still warm.

Fall means fun in Southern Delaware. Bike coastal trails that connect great beach towns. See wildlife while paddling throughout Nanticoke River Country. Enjoy our festivals, including SeaWitch, Apple Scrapple and Jazz. Taste scrumptious fare along our Culinary Coast™ of eateries. Rates cool off in the fall, so you can stay longer for a lot less. Plan your fall getaway right away. For a full calendar of events and getaway deals, go to www.visitsoutherndelaware.com/fall.

What’s your favorite fall thing to do in Southern Delaware? Tell us at www.twitter.com/VisitSouthDel. You could win a weekend for two!

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 2 9

Southern Delaware continued from page 29 and their farm fresh foods.

Sept 19 — Tour de Sussex, Southern Delaware’s premier cycling event offers ride distances of 1, 25, 62, and 100 miles. Registration fee includes SAG, T-shirt, lunch and drink coupons, maps, and rest stop

refreshments. Rest stops include Dogfish Brewery, Irish Eyes, Papa Grande’s, and Trap Pond.

Sept. 19 — Boro Bash at Millsboro Little League Field features redneck games and kids’ games, craft and food vendors, and live entertainment. The Hillbilly Silly Science Spectacular from Wisconsin will offer its zany take on science with stage shows and traveling shows around the park.

Sept. 19 — The Freeman Stage

Arts and Jazz Festival in Selbyville is a great opportunity to stroll the green and enjoy previewing the artwork of Delmarva’s finest artists.

Pull up a chair and groove to some of the most talented jazz artists to ever play at the shore, including Joe Baione Sextet, Catherine Russell, and Cyrus Chestnut.

Sept. 20 — Milford Eat in the Street in downtown Milford features local cuisine, drinks, a four-course meal, vendors, wine and beer pairings, and entertainment.

Sept. 27 — It’s time to jump ship with the Escape from Lewes Open Water Swim Classic in Lewes. The Delaware Breakwater in the National

Harbor of Refuge serves as the backdrop for this amazing open water swimming event. Swimmers of all ability levels will be able to test their skills in a one-of-a-kind event as they swim from the ferry.

Throughout September there are also a variety of events at the US 13 Dragway and the Delaware International Speedway involving classic cars, bikes, barbecue, drag racing, crazy eights, and more on both dirt tracks and a drag strip. (delaware racing.com)

For more information Southern Delaware Tourism: visitsoutherndelaware.com.

d L IV IN G TH E L IF E IN S O U TH E R N D E L A W A R E

VISIT HISTORIC LEWES, DELAWARE Sept. 13 — Lewes Dragon Boat Races Sept. 18 — Lewes Oktoberfest Sept. 19 — Lewes Artists’ Studio Tours Oct. 2-4 — Merchants’ Fall Sidewalk Sales Oct. 3-4 — Boast the Coast/Coast Day Maritime Festival Oct. 23-25 — Children’s Fantasy Trail at State Park Call toll free 877-465-3937 or visit leweschamber.com

3 0 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

“Beaches Are Just the Beginning” describes the way of life in the southern reaches of the nation’s First State. If you’re intrigued by what you’ve read about Southern Delaware, you’re like countless others who think about living there.

With 26 miles of Atlantic coastline, and much more waterfront property along the Delaware Bay, the inland bays, and several lakes and rivers, there are many viable options in Southern Delaware for those who enjoy life by the water.

But, for those who want to spend a little less money for a home and still live within a short drive of some of the nation’s finest small-town beach resorts, the central and western areas of Sussex County offer open spaces, close-knit communities, tons of local history, and good amenities.

For the over-55 crowd, there are plenty of communities to choose

from that can be found in all areas of the county. Visit scaor.com and take a look a look at some of these communities to find out what your money can really buy in Southern Delaware.

And then there are the taxes, or lack thereof. No matter what part of the county you plan on calling home, the taxes in Southern Delaware are some of the lowest in the United States. With no sales tax and extremely low property taxes (real estate values have not been reassessed in Sussex County since the early 1970s), your money truly can go a lot further than in other areas in the Mid-Atlantic.

So, when you make the decision that living at or near the Delaware beaches is the right choice for you and your family, visit scaor.com to start taking a look at homes that are currently available.

CRUISE CORNER

K arl Teel

continued from page 17 delay booking because the ship is sold out excluding a few concierge balcony staterooms and suites.

Please call 800-848-8373 or email pauline@ accentontravel.us if you would like to start the process to reserve a cabin or have further questions.

A courtesy hold can be put on a stateroom for up to five days before payment is due.

Bon voyage, and tell Paul we said hello!

TRAVEL LINE continued from page 9

Fall on the Outer Banks There’s still plenty of time before cool weather sets in to take that last trip of the season to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, a favorite destination for people who live in the Mid-Atlantic. Plus, there are many advantages to being there in the fall.

With school back in session and summer vacations over, the Outer Banks is less crowded. That means more choices in accommodations and less waiting in line at restaurants for a table. Fall sales at boutiques, surf shops, and outlets are fantastic, too. And, the weather is almost perfect. Think temperatures in the low 80s in September and the 60s and 70s in October and November.

Weekly rental rates are incredible — $600 to $1,000 for cottages and condos that go for three times as much during peak season. Fall is also a great time for shelling on the beach. Fishing is at its best, whether from a pier, in the surf, on the sound, or from a charter boat. Golf is wonderful, too, especially with less crowded courses and lower rates. And, don’t forget about the many opportunities for kayaking, wind surfing, and kiteboarding. (visitcurrituck.com)

family travel continued from page 4 for Americans. The Fredericksburg Museum has a permanent exhibit focusing on this battle, which includes personal stories and experiences from civilians and a selection of Civil War weapons from the Johnson Gun Collection.

The Trail to Freedom is another self-guided walking tour. It tells the story of 10,000 slaves who walked to freedom across the Union lines. Some slaves found work with the Union army and others moved further north. Follow the tour to read words and hear stories of the slaves who crossed into freedom. (trailtofreedomva.com)

FREE IN D.C.

Read all about it at the Library of Congress’ National Book Festival on Sept. 5, when more than 100 authors converge on the Washington Convention Center. (loc.gov) National and local acts highlight the D.C. Blues Festival on Sept. 5 at the Carter Barron Amphitheatre in Rock Creek Park. (dcblues.org) The National Symphony Orchestra celebrates the opening of the Kennedy Center performing arts season with a Labor Day Concert on Sept. 6 on the U.S. Capitol’s West Lawn. (kennedy-center.org) — gwen woolf

Weekend Updates

Opt-in at RecreationNews.com

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

Throughout your tour of the countryside in Tuscany, Italy, you’ll see rolling hills and fields of grapevines creating a serene setting for enjoying the wines.

Don’t miss a single event this spring and summer!

Get the

Recreation News Weekend Update

FREE

every week.

Opt-in at RecreationNews.com

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 3 1

ad ventu res in taste I reed h ellman

Chesapeake summer treats make the heat a bit more bearable Chesapeake summers — torrid, enervating, stifling, but as sweet as only a hometown summer can be. With a heat index of 105, equally outrageous humidity, and bay water temperature approaching that of blood, what could possibly make a Chesapeake summer so sweet?

We have snowballs. The quintessential summer confection, coarsely shaved ice dowsed in flavored syrup, is sold in Styrofoam cups from roadside stands and neighborhood stores. The ice’s coarse texture helps it withstand the summer scorch as it simultaneously cools and quenches.

We can trace the snowball’s roots back to the Industrial Revolution. Later in the 1800s, Baltimoreans began making flavorings to sweeten chips of ice cadged from transport wagons. The most common flavor — egg custard — is still popular, and has been joined by chocolate, Skylite (or “blue”), classic cherry (with or without chocolate sauce on top), cookie dough, tutti-frutti, and dozens of others ranging from sour apple and sweet tangerine to Smurf and Crunchberry.

Easy corn shucking That part of summer when snowballs become a daily survival tactic is about the same time that the first sweet corn ripens. Many people find shucking corn to be an onerous task — particularly removing the seemingly adhesive silks. Sidestep the

whole shucking process by microwaving the corn in the husks for four to five minutes per ear. Then, carefully hold the corn down on a cutting board and cut off the bottom just above the point where the stalk joins the ear and shake out the nearly silk-free, steamed-in-the-husk ear of corn.

Along with Delmarva sweet corn, soft shell crabs are summertime hallmarks. Soft shells are the familiar blue crabs in the process of growing.

A crab outgrows its shell and molts, shedding the hard chitinous case and the outer covering of its feet, eyestalks, and antennae. Soft, lethargic, and helpless, soft shells are also totally edible. Fried, broiled, or sauteed, soft shell crabs constitute an exceptional feast.

“Soft shell crabs are truly one of the world’s greatest delicacies,” said internationally acclaimed wine critic Robert Parker. “... I think that it is an experience that visitors to Baltimore must have. That’s a magical experience.”

My newest Chesapeake summer favorite is the fanciful watermelon carvings stuffed with seasonal fruits created by Dianne Carlson. Matching the “scene” to the fruit adds whimsy to her works, and she can take advantage of local melons and other produce. For a recent dinner party, Carlson crafted a beach scene from an upright, carved watermelon, complete with carved melon crabs and starfish arrayed on “beach sand” made from crushed vanilla cookie crumbs.

Along with some cookie cutters, Carlson just uses a paring knife and a larger kitchen knife. “It

just takes some patience. And, it makes things special,” she said. “There is so much on the Internet; just Google “watermelon carving.”

Heritage cooking classes The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum in Oella, Md., will host two heritage cooking events, both open to the public.

Located between Catonsville and Ellicott City, the park encompasses the 18th-century farmstead of the famed scientist, astronomer, mathematician, abolitionist, surveyor, farmer, and almanac publisher, opening a window into Banneker’s world and the beginning of a our nation.

On Sept. 5, drop in during the afternoon to watch me and a team of historical interpreters demonstrate open hearth cooking. On Nov. 7, the team joins together again for “Happy Birthday, Mr. Banneker,” as we celebrate Ben’s birthday. Along with our open hearth cooking, Ben will tell the story of his life and visitors can explore the Banneker Farmstead as it comes alive with Colonial games, guided hikes, and hands-on family activities. (benjaminbanneker.wordpress.com)

Kitchen Guy Soft Crab Sandwich Buy cleaned soft crabs, or do it yourself by removing the eyes and the soft stomach just below and behind the eyes. Slice along each side of the crab; fold back the top skin and remove the devil fingers, the soft, spongy strips just under the back.

Rinse the crabs in cold water.

Servings: 4 8 soft-shell crabs 3 eggs 1 cup fine breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon Old Bay or seafood seasoning 1/2 cup tartar sauce 16 slices toasted white bread 8 large tomato slices 16 lettuce leaves Oil for deep frying In a small mixing bowl, beat the eggs with 6 tablespoons of water. Spread the breadcrumbs and Old Bay on another plate. Dip each crab first in the egg mixture and then in the breadcrumbs. Repeat twice more to ensure that each crab is well coated.

Fry in deep oil preheated to 375 degrees, 3 to 5 minutes, turning once during cooking, until both sides of each crab are nicely browned.

Serve as sandwiches with tomato and lettuce, between toast slices spread with tartar sauce.

R eed H ellman

Is it art or food? Watermelon carving can add fun to a summer table.

3 2 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit his website at reedhellmanwordsmith.com or email rhway2go@yahoo.com

wine d octor I edward finstein

Your nose will Know these defects Some wine defects are easy for everyone to find When it comes to wine, unfortunately, there are bottles out there that are defective and should not be consumed. Sometimes the problem originates from the winery in its production or cellar management; other times it stems from sources beyond the winemakers’ control or from mishandling after the wine leaves the producer. Regardless, a defective wine is no fun.

Wine defects actually fall into two categories: flaws and faults. A flaw is something in a wine that makes the wine atypical, a slight variance in character from the norm. In this case, any minor flaw might be considered “complexity,” and the wine will still be enjoyable. On the other hand, a fault is a major departure from the norm that spoils the wine and renders it undrinkable. A flaw that is extreme could easily fall into this category. There’s a fine line as to when a flaw is too much.

Regardless of the intensity of the problem, most defects in wine show up via the nose rather than on the palate. Since we sniff a wine before tasting it, we can avoid putting it into our mouths if the nose is “off.” However, most drinkers will not notice a defect unless it’s extreme. For example, if you stick your nose in a wine and it smells like your dirty gym bag, you don’t have to be an expert to know there’s something wrong

Wine defects — and specifically odors — originate from a variety of sources.

Several defects result from extensive use of sulphur-containing compounds used to kill germs on grapes and winemaking equipment. One of the most common of these is sulphur dioxide, which has a pungent smell and leaves an unpleasant effect on the tissues of the nose and throat.

Another is hydrogen sulphide, which smells like rotten eggs. There’s also “mercaptan,” a very unpleasant odor that sometimes smells like garlic.

Several wine defects result from the action of bacteria. One that I come across every now and then is butyric. This problem makes the wine smell like rancid butter or spoiled Camembert cheese. Lactic is an interesting problem, resulting in a sauerkraut-like aromatic. Acetic is a very common problem, smelling specifically like vinegar.

There are many odor problems that result from other causes. One of the most prevalent is “corky.” The use of bad corks can result in TCA, or trichloroanisole, which renders the wine smelling musty like a damp basement.

Another very common problem is oxidized wine, simply meaning it has been overexposed to air. The wine usually smells tired or sherry-like.

A wine that smells moldy usually

is the result of using moldy grapes or moldy barrels. While filtering a wine, sometimes the filter-pads are not changed often enough and the result is a chalky, papery note on the nose. This defect is called “filterpad.”

A really interesting fault is ethyl acetate, resulting from wine-spoiled yeast. Ladies more often than men will recognize this odor, as it resembles nail polish remover.

Another fascinating fault is “geranium,” resulting from sorbic acid and smelling like the leaves of a geranium plant. A very common flaw, especially in California wines, is “brett.” The smell is very distinctive, almost like a barnyard or horse aromas.

Hopefully, I haven’t turned you off wine talking about some of these defects.

It’s good to be aware of some of the possibilities the next time you smell a wine that is “off.”

Remember, “Life’s too short to drink bad wine.” © Edward Finstein, “The Wine Doctor” 2015. “The Wine Doctor” is Edward Finstein, award-winning author, TV and radio host, renowned wine journalist, international wine judge, professor of wine, and consultant. (winedoctor.ca, twitter.com/ drwineknow, thewinedoctor. blogspot.com, winedoctor.ca/ docs-grapevine.html, facebook.com/ edwarddocfinstein?fref=ts)

LOOK WHO IS COMING TO…. THE REHOBOTH BEACH JAZZ FESTIVAL “THE GREATEST JAZZ FESTIVAL IN THE WORLD”® CELEBRATING OUR 26TH YEAR IN SUSSEX COUNTY, DELAWARE OCT 15 TO 18, 2015

Produced by The Delaware Celebration of Jazz BRIAN SIMPSON

STEVE COLE

EUGE GROOVE

JEFF KASHIWA

KIM WATERS

NICK COLIONNE

MATT MARSHAK

BETTYE LAVETTE

ERIC ROBERSON

BONEY JAMES

AL JARREAU

CHUCK LOEB HARVEY MASON

BOB JAMES

STANLEY JORDAN

NATHAN EAST

PEABO BRYSON

ART SHERROD JR

GERALD ALBRIGHT

CHIELI MINUCCI

MARC ANTIONE

RICK BRAUN NORM BROWN KIRK WHALUM

“FOURPLAY”

“SAX PACK” SELINA ALBRIGHT

ALEX BUGNON

“BWB” GERALD VEASLEY

“CLUB PHRED”

“PIECES OF A DREAM”

“FOUR80EAST”

JAMES LLOYD CURTIS HARMON

TONY GRACE & ROB DeBOER

There are more Artist to confirm so keep checking our web site for updates.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! For Info & e-tickets

www.rehobothjazz.com

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 3 3

govem p l oy ee. com

I ad ve rtorial

Legal counsel can be important It would be better if it didn’t happen … but, if you are injured, there are significant reasons to call attorney Paul Samakow.

The first is that he is almost always available. Try it. Call him now on his cell phone — 703-472-7688. His philosophy is that you honor him by asking for his help.

It’s an absolutely free consultation, so before you talk with any insurance adjuster or sign any paper, talk with Samakow.

Samakow has more than 35 years of experience helping people who have been injured: car accidents, work injuries, dog bites, catastrophic injuries, and death cases.

The stress, the mess, dealing with insurance companies — literally, all of the problems being injured can create — are dealt with routinely, aggressively,

What’s going on?

discreetly, and with excellent results by Samakow and his staff.

The second reason you want to call Samakow is his experience. He has been practicing law in Maryland and Virginia since 1980 and has handled more than 20,000 cases.

Some attorneys do many things. Paul Samakow focuses on two things only: making life easier for those who’ve been hurt and getting them maximum compensation.

These concerns are addressed and resolved quickly by Samakow’s office: Who is going to pay my medical bills?

The other party’s insurance is giving me a hard time.

They won’t return my calls.

What am I going to do about missing work?

My boss is giving me a hard time.

Who is going to pay for my car repairs?

What do I do in the meantime to get around?

There are other, more specialized concerns Paul Samakow deals with routinely: I am military and I have been seriously, permanently injured.

I may lose many benefits — base pay, special pay, allowances for housing and food, and medical insurance benefits — or pay I would have received when I got promoted and retirement benefits.

Some attorneys do not understand how to go about getting compensated for these losses. Paul Samakow does.

Finally, some attorneys charge for consultations. Samakow does not and, better yet, he gives you the book he published, The Eight Critical Things Your Auto Accident Attorney Won’t Tell You, absolutely free. More than 100,000 copies

Paul Samakow of the book have been distributed and dozens are sent out each week.

You can contact Samakow on his cell phone, 703-472-6788, or by email, paul@ samakowlaw.com.

Virginia offices are in Tyson’s Corner, Arlington, and Woodbridge; in Maryland, offices are in Wheaton, Gaithersburg, and Hyattsville.

Check out our calendar on page 21 for what’s happening in and around your area!

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

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR OUR PREFERRED EMPLOYERS!

© 2015, Indiana Printing and Publishing Co., Inc. Recreation News (ISSN 1056-9294) is the official publication of GovEmployee.com and GovEmployee.com, 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 - Patti Sottile

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 - Ellen Matis Webmaster - Ellen Matis

gov

employee

com

discounts•destinations•deals

GovEmployee.com 3012 Gold Mine Road, Brookeville, MD 20833 Phone: 301-221-3977 Email RSragner@GovEmployee.com 2015 RECGOV President: Ruth Sragner Advisory Panel: Renee Bolden, Clement Jackson, Karl Teel, Jessica Smith and Ted Tepper Publisher - Recreation News: Karl Teel

Visit us today and mention this ad, and we will waive your application fee and deposit. Plus you’ll receive FREE garage parking for six months!

Newly remodeled studio, 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartment homes.

Just 10 minutes from the red line.

LEASE NOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR BEST SUMMER SPECIALS!

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

3 4 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

1131 University Blvd. West | Silver Spring, MD | 20902

866-866-7576 | TheWarwickApartments.com

TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

TRIPS & TRAVEL

Looking for a fantastic All inclusive resort for a destination wedding, honeymoon, family vacation or BFF get-away, consider Sandals or Beaches, the ultimate all inclusive properties in the Caribbean. One fee covers lodging, food, beverages, entertainment, sports, gratuities and fun for all. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the summer pass you by. Call to discuss which property and island is best for you.

July 19-29, 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Awesome Alaska Cruise/Tour. Enjoy a three-night pre-cruise tour, via motorcoach and glass domed train, through Denali Park, Talkeetna and the wilderness. Overnight in park lodges. Then enjoy a 7-night cruise through the inside passage. Ports of call include Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau. Contact us for details and brochure.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss this Spiritual Adventure. Only a few cabins left, Act Now! August 15-16 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Week-end to New York to see â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alive 55+ and Kickinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;? All of the performers are 55 and over with a personal testimony to share. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uplifting, fun. entertaining and more. Our Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day group had a ball. The show has been extended. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to it. Contact us for details. LAST CALL. October 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones starring in a revival of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Gin Gameâ&#x20AC;? on Broadway. Two seniors discuss their lives, loves and losses while playing gin rummy. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss these two stage and film icons together again. Limited Space. Book Now. GREAT ESCAPES TRAVEL & TOURS Call Barbara 301-567-6464 or e-mail FrankieTVL2@aol.com, for more info. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Create Rocking Chair Memoriesâ&#x20AC;?

UT

O SOLD SOLD

TRIPS & TRAVEL

OUT

TRIPS & TRAVEL Rio De Janeiro / Salvador, Brazil March 2-10, 2016

Dream Travels to GO One of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most captivating places, Brazil is South Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gaint, a dazzling country of powdery white beaches, pristine rain forest, and wild,rhythmic filled metropolises.

Only $3007 pp double occupancy : call for deposit details

CONTACT BETTY: 240-441-8276

TRIPS & TRAVEL Join Donna T & Friends on an exciting 10 day Bermuda and Caribbean cruise from Cape Liberty NJ next year October 20 - 29, 2016. Cruising on one of Royal Caribbeansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; newest ships ANTHEM OF THE SEAS. New feature ... Virtual balcony Intrigued? ... Call me for further information: Donna T (202) 2580-3758 or (301) 441-3900

LAND FOR SALE Petersburg WV, 59.61 acres, wooded, $119K; 81.61 acres wooded $162,900, both tracts have good cabin sites, mature trees, excellent views, good hunting, and access to 50 acre stocked fishing lake.

Also Lake Access lot with boat slip at Smith Mountain Lake (20,000 acre lake), 31 miles NE of Roanoke VA $59K. 304-257-2385.

VACATION RENTALS

ALLSTAR LODGING

SHENANDOAH VALLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST VACATION RENTAL AGENCY 80 unique Cabins & Vacation Rentals.

1-10 bdrms, sleeps 2-20, Swimming pools, Hot tubs, Fireplace, Kitchens, Campfire, Wifi, Free canoe/kayak use, Hiking, Riverfront or wooded areas, depending on property choice.

Dogs Welcome! www.allstarlodging. com 540-843-0606

Like us on Facebook!

VACATION RENTALS

VACATION RENTALS

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

SHORELINE PROPERTIES & CONDO RENTALS Call now for reservations or sales 800-492-5832 Search online and save: shorepro.com

BETHANY BEACH AREA RENTAL

Beautiful nearly new 4 BR, 2BA, single family home with sunroom, porch and patio. Sleeps up to 10. Located 3.5 miles from Bethany Beach in a waterfront Community on the Indian River with Tennis courts, pool, gym and private beach. Home sits on a bassstocked fishing pond, w/patio and fire pit.

Washer, dryer, cable, WiFi, full modern kitchen, gas fireplace, central air, hardwoods and elegant features. $800-$1200 weekly, or $150/ night, 2 night min.

Call 410-638-6901 or email Publisher@RecreationNews.com for availability and details.

VACATION RENTALS

VACATION RENTALS

LOG CABINS BY THE SHENANDOAH RIVER

Luray, VA Plan your fall getaway now! Hot tub, bonfire and friends. Close to hiking, Luray Caverns and more.

800-622-6632.

ShenandoahRiverCabins.com

BURNERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOUNTAIN LODGE

Luray, Va. Two bedroom cabin. Fully equipped.

Hot tub, fishing pond, many extras. Reasonable rates. Private. Close to hiking, Shenandoah river, caverns and golf.

Call 540-743-3787, visit burnermountain.

8m.com, or e-mail: pab_pdb@yahoo.com

Annapolis RV Center * Service * Parts * Rentals

Many sizes from 24Â&#x2019; to 34Â&#x2019;

Weekends, Full weeks, or more!

Call today and plan your vacation!

301-261-8772 www.annapolisrv.com

WHY RISK CLEANING ANOTHER GUTTER? Modern, Convenient Luxury Apartments Î&#x17D; Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĹŻ ĨŽĆ&#x152; Ä?ĆľĆ&#x152;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161; Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä?Ĺ?ĹśĹ? Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ć?Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĆ?Í&#x160; 73 ,9: $ $: : :)91255+:1943*74 (36.:05769+-5282': 734.94 57:4+5 37*:05++,736' &:+51927:0.9%#374-3291: 360.97:(36.: 230.:*287369:05,769265-4$ &:(84.92 12'92:871:*97925,4/':8--537691:)86.4 &:)98,"%,//':(8692408-91:-55/:871:4-8$ &:9 628 8*876:9 90," 9:),437944:097692 &.3*.:971,28709: 67944:871:8925)30:%803/36' &:,/"+869:29431976:/5,7*9:(36.:)3//38214 &:*2871:-55/4319:*23//37*:468"57 .9: 70/8 9:5 924:8:%84.3578)/9:8112944:6.86:34 37:0/549:-25 3+36':65:*2986:4.5--37*:871:8),7# 1876:29468,28764 : 944:6.87:6(5:+3/94: 4: 3-# -57: 68"57:871: ,46:)/50 4:%25+: # $: 565+80 5(7: 97692:871: 565+80: 3//4

: 930946924.329: 62996 551)231*9: :

((( 970/8 986-565+800/,)#8-64 05+

PROBLEM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Traditional gutters clog with leaves and debris, damaging your roof, foundation, fascia and landscaping.

RISK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cleaning out gutters is dangerous â&#x20AC;&#x201D; falls are the number one cause of accidental death and injury around the household.

SOLUTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; LeafGuard will never clog, or we will clean them out for you for free, forever â&#x20AC;&#x201D; guaranteed.

Get the GUTTER GUARANTEED not to CLOG and PROTECT Your HOME!

888-341-7492

60 OFF

%

INSTALLATION*

MILITARY & FEDERAL WORKERS DISCOUNT:

65 OFF INSTALLATION %

*

*With coupon. Not valid with any other offer, or previous job. Present coupon at time of estimate. Exp. 11/31/14 VA #2705-116122A/MD #121787

recreationnews.com I september 2015 I recreation news 3 5

recnews.luthersales.com 1-800-358-6466

Back-To-School Bonus Something For You & a Bonus For Your Student! oshiba T e e r F Tablet e t i c x E e urchas P h t i W ured of Feat Set re Furnitu

A. As Low As

$50.02 $28.72 BiWeekly

Save 43% Cotton Blend Sectional Featuring Feather Down Blend Cushions

erSales Advan The LutehW tage i t e h G l o v e e S er v Fr On Furniture & Matt ress

Free Nationwide Deliv

B. As Low As

er Top Quality Name B rands y

$57.17 $32.82 BiWeekly

Free Extended Furniture Warr anty For Life of Payment Pla n

Save 33% 7-Piece Chestnut Brown Bedroom & Mattress Set

C. As Low As

BiWeekly

Save 40%

BT S

$45.84 $39.73

Vizio 55” 1080p Smart LED TV With Free Delivery & Installation Sample Payment Charts

All prices include shipping and handling. Total of payments assumes an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE OF 23% using a simple interest calculation. Annual percentage rates may be lower in certain states.

Sample Financing Terms and Cash Discount Comparison

Sample Optional 6-Month 25% Discount (If Paid in Full) Program

Monthly payment amounts are subject to approval based on creditworthiness and the amount financed. This sample payment chart assumes a new account with a zero balance at the time of purchase. Although every precaution is taken, errors in

*Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date and will not be rebated if the

prices and/or specs may occur. We reserve the right to correct any such errors at the time of purchase.

purchase balance is not paid in full within three (3) months of delivery of your purchase.

Code

Pre-pay Cash Discount Paid In Full Before Delivery (Not Financed)

A

$1,699.00

ices

List Price

Bi Weekly Payment

# of Bi Weekly Payments

Total Payments Including Interest Charges

Payment (6-month 25% Discount Program)

# of Payments

Total Payments

$2,240.00

$28.72

78

$2,240.16

$161.54

13

$2,100.00

Free recliner offer requires the purchase of an Ashley living room, bedroom, dining room or mattress with list price of $1,929.00 $2,560.00 $32.82 78 same address. $2,559.96 13the terms or pricing $2,400.00 $3,000 or more. All items must be shipped to the All applicants$184.62 may not qualify for C $1,349.00 $1,950.00 $280.83 every precaution 6 $1,685.00 listed for this campaign.

May Not$39.73 Be Redeemed 65 for Cash or$2,582.45 Cash Equivalent. Although is taken, errors in pricing and/or specs may occur. We reserve the right any such errors at$87.50 the time of purchase.

D $419.00 $700.00 $21.39 39 to correct $834.30 6 These offers cannot $525.00 be combined with any other offer. Items listed on the Garage Sales, Pre-Paid Purchases, Early Payment Incentives, “Hot “Great Value” listed inAll the LutherSales Catalog notterms part or of pricing this promotion.

Qualifying amount applies to for Cash All items Buys” must beand shipped to the same address. applicants may not qualifyare for the listed for this campaign. May Not Be Redeemed or Cash Equivalent.

Although precaution taken, errors in pricing and/or may occur. reserve purchases. the right to correct anyyour suchaccount errors at the time of merchandise only, every not the value ofisapplicable taxes or fees.

Nospecs adjustments toWe previous Contact purchase.representative These offers cannot be combined with any other offer. Items listed on the Garage Sales, Pre-Paid Purchases, Early Payment Incentives, “Hot Buys” for more information.

Offer expires 7/31/15.

B

and “Great Value” listed in the LutherSales Catalog are not part of this promotion. Qualifying amount applies to merchandise only, not the value of applicable taxes or fees. No adjustments to previous purchases. Contact your account representative for more information. Offer expires 8/30/15.

3 6 recreation news I september 2015 I recreationnews.com

e p S

nus o B l a i c

D. As Low As

$21.39 BiWeekly

Reduced Price!

Back-2-School Special

HP 15.6” Laptop W/4GB & 750GB Hard Drive, Internet Security, Sleeve, Mouse & Flash Drive

FREE Wireless Printer or MS Office Package