KESWICK Lifestyles in Keswick and its’ environs - September 2016
LIFE
In this issue
A Keswick Story Tony Vanderwarker's New Book
also: horsin' around, overheard, keswick scene, going out guide, business insider and much more
Country Living in Virginia
MOUNT PLEASANT, C. 1886 History abounds throughout this restored Victorian, renovated to marry the past with the present, giving a true nod to a bygone era. Meticulously updated, the residence sits amidst mature landscaping and grounds on over 46 acres in the Northern Neck; on the Historic Garden Week Tour, The National Register of Historic Places, and Virginia Landmarks Register. MLS 548658
1120 CHAPEL LANE Large family home surrounded on two sides by the Piankatank River. The original, historic warehouse has been fully restored and the owners added a 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home, with water views from every living space; the kitchen and baths were renovated in 2015. This exceptional, 34 acre riverfront property was once a regular feature during Historic Garden Week in Virginia. MLS 543100
LOCUST HILL Gorgeous Virginia farmhouse, privately situated on 36 acres with frontage on the James River. The home has a copper roof, cedar siding, hardwood floors and traditional materials throughout. There is an original cook house and smoke house surrounded by pasture and woodland. Wildlife and game make it ideal for weekend sporting retreat or waterfront family estate for year round living. MLS 545054
APSARA FARM Gracious Georgian Manor home built by Shelter and Associates in 2006. Exceptional quality and attention to detail is evident throughout the home with 12 - 13’ ceilings, custom woodwork, and 6 interior fireplaces. On 448 acres with 2 stocked ponds, well-maintained pastures, meadows and woodland. Additional buildings include the original Rin Ran home as well as 3 tenant houses and a barn. MLS 549867
Frank Hardy 434 296 0134 fhardy@frankhardy.com
frankhardy.com
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
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SEPTEMBER 2016
THE COLUMNISTS Mary Morony author of the novel Apron Strings is a Charlottesville native and long time resident of Keswick. Raising four children to adulthood and her unique perspective on life has given her lots of food for thought. She now lives on a farm in Orange County with her husband Ralph Morony, three dogs, two guineas and no cat. Check out Mary’s blog at www. marymorony.com.
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Tony Vanderwarker, raised in New England, spent a couple years at Yale and then served two years in the Peace Corps where he got bitten both by tsetse flies and the writing bug. He went to film school at NYU and made documentaries and a full length film which didn’t sell so he decided to try shorter films and went into advertising. Fifteen years later, he had his own ad agency in Chicago where he did “Be Like Mike” for Gatorade. When his partners bought him out, Tony finally had a chance to write full time. It only took him fifteen more years to finally get a book published. “Who cares?” Tony says, “some writers hit paydirt fast, others take longer. I’m just glad my time has come.” visit www.tonyvanderwarker.com
Reaching your financial goals begins today with a phone call to arrange a Discovery Meeting.
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Suzanne Nash, raised in Lynchburg Virginia, graduated from Wake Forest University and immediately moved to Charlottesville, Virginia to pursue all sorts of things, including working in insurance, marketing and television. The mother of two teenagers is currently the manufacturer of a lingerie and swimsuit design company, the director of education at Grace Episcopal Church and enjoys freelance writing and theatre in her free time.
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(434) 972-7766 www.anculbertson.com One Boar’s Head Pointe, Suite 101, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903
22 ACRES ON THE MOORMANS RIVER - HORSE PROPERTY POTENTIAL
93 ACRE ESTATE IN KESWICK HUNT COUNTRY
4068 & 4054 Garth Road • $2,095,000
Lafayette • $2,795,000
This dramatic Jay Dagliesh-designed home features soaring ceiling, generous proportions and an ideal balance of open formal and casual living spaces sited in total privacy above the Moormans River. The property is enhanced by an early 1900’s barn in excellent condition and a charming 3 bed, 2 bath, 1950’s cottage that was totally renovated in 1995. The main house has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. There is a wildflower meadow behind the home, rose gardens at the house and a front field next to the barn that could easily be fenced for horses or other animals. MLS# 551895
Set in privacy and tranquility, this classically and comprehensively appointed residence showcases a modern floor plan enhanced by beautiful millwork, grand proportions and details like multiple piece cornices, paneled columns, coffered ceilings, 12 inch baseboards. Expansive covered porch with herringbone stone fireplace and travertine floor, and travertine terrace off kitchen/family room. First and second floor masters, stunning library with Honduran Mahogany cabinets, ceiling, home theater, private, au pair or in-law area over garage. MLS# 551980
434.977.4005 lwoodriff@loringwoodriff.com
401 Park Street Charlottesville, VA 22902 WWW.LORINGWOODRIFF.COM
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KESWICK LIFE
KESWICK Tell it to..keswick .efil kciw life... sek ot ti lleT
Send a “Letter :ottodrthe aehEditor” revO ruof oyKeswick ro efiL kLife ciwsor eKyour fo ”rOverheard otidE eht otto: retteL“ a dneS Keswick Life,7PO 492Box 2 AV32, ,kcKeswick, iwseK ,23VA xoB 22947 OP ,efiL kciwseK or email to: keswicklife@gmail.com moc.liamg@efilkciwsek :ot liame ro
LIFE
IN THISSEPTEMBER ISSUE 2016
Lifestyles in Keswick and its’ environs PO Box 32, Keswick, Virginia 22947 T: 434.242.8033 E: keswicklife@gmail.com
9 ON THE COVER
The minds behind Keswick Life: EDITORIAL EDITOR/FOUNDER Winkie Motley CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Colin J. Dougherty THE COLUMNISTS Tony Vanderwarker, Mary Morony, Suzanne Nash CONTRIBUTORS Colin J. Dougherty, Shelley Payne PROOF READER Staff Assistant
A Keswick Story - The Tony Vanderwarker Interview
Tony Vanderwarker has just released a new book, I’m
Not From the South But I Got Down Here As Fast As I Could – How a Connecticut Yankee Learned To Love Grits and Fried Green Tomatoes And Lived To Tell About It – Keswick Life's Colin Dougherty caught up with Tony to get an insiders look into the author, his writing process, the new book and life in general. Tony has published three books, Writing With the Master, Sleeping Dogs, and Ads For God. He has four grown children and now lives on a farm in Keswick with his wife, four dogs, a horse and a Sicilian donkey named Jethro.
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR Colin J. Dougherty Published by a division of Keswick Life PHOTOGRAPHY George Payne, Sarah Cramer, Murdoch Matheson and Peter Cihelka ADVERTISING NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE: the 10th of the month GET A LIFE!
Every month we bring you lifestyles in Keswick and its’ environs, from the scoop of a party and horsey happenings to practical advice on making the most of your garden, preserving land and updates from the surroundings! But don’t take our word for it - subscribe and discover, Keswick Life!
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Where you can pick up a copy of Keswick Life! The Shadwell Store, Keswick Hall, Loring Woodriff Real Estate Associates, Keswick Club, Clifton Inn, Montpelier, Somerset Store, Cismont Store, Foods of All Nations, In Vino Veritas, Laurie Holladay Interiors, McLean Faulconer, Monticello, Frank Hardy, Inc., Feast, Middleburg Tack Exchange, Faulconer Hardware, The Eternal Attic, Palladio, Darden, Roy Wheeler Realty, Albemarle Bakery
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11 HORSIN' AROUND 17 LIFE, MAKE IT HAPPEN Horsin' Around has all the details on the handlers, Mary Morony writes from a modified colum title this owners, and breeders that showcased their top hunter prospects this past week at the 2016 Sallie B. Wheeler/ US Hunter Breeding National Championship. Get all the details on the winners and the competition in Keswick Life's Horsin' Around.
Keswick Life, PO Box 32, Keswick, VA 22947 or email to: keswicklife@gmail.com
19 BUSINESS INSIDER 20 ON EXHIBIT The Business Insider takes us to Mason Insurance Spanning seven centuries, the exhibition will demwhich turns 125 this year – the company’s history surrounds them daily—pictures of their ancestors who worked at the same company adorn the walls. A photo of Mason as a child hangs in his office. In it, there’s a telegram telling his mother that a desk had already been picked out for the youngest family member read about their rich history on page 19.
Send a “Letter to the Editor” of Keswick Life or your Overheard to:
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month with here latest work titled Laughing at Fears and Uncertainty. She begins with reminding us "there is an extreme amount of uncertainty for us to fear currently. There’s the presidential election, enough said. There’s also climate change, international, economic and political uncertainty all around us." Put your fears aside and read on, Mary will 'make it happen".
Tell it to keswick life...
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onstrate the wide range and breadth of botanical works of art. Showcasing masterworks from one of the world’s great private libraries devoted to the plant world, Redouté to Warhol: Bunny Mellon’s Botanical Art will be on view in the Art Gallery of the LuEsther T. Mertz Library at The New York Botanical Garden from October 8, 2016, through February 12, 2017.
SEPTEMBER 2016
OVERHEARD
Here and there... in Keswick On and Off The Market There are some serious price adjustments in both Keswick and Glenmore this time around. In Keswick, 844 Club Drive with 7 beds, 5.5 baths and 7066 sf was reduced from $1.750m to $1.550m after 150 days on the market. Soon to follow was 1037 Club Drive with 5 beds, 5.5 baths and 6098 sf reduced from $1.597m to $1.389m after 216 days on the market. There were 11 price adjustments made on Glenmore re-sales in the same time period. Around the area “Highground Cottage” at 6295 Gordonsville Road with 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 15 acres and 2227 sf was reduced from $760k to $735k after 193 days. 2684 Paddock Wood Road with 6 beds, 4.5 baths, 32 acres and 4521 sf was reduced from $1.395m to $1.1m after 125 days. 59 Red Maple Lane with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3240 sf was reduced from $418.9k to $409.9k after 142 days and 38 Tall Oaks Court with 3 beds, 3 baths and 3451 sf was reduced from $439.9k to $429.5k in 99 days. New to the market in Glenmore was 1331 Kilchatten Lane with 3 beds, 3.5 baths and 3082 sf at $609k, 2206 Piper Way with 5 beds, 4.5 baths and 5807 sf at $827.5k, 1438 Bremberton Lane with 3 beds, 2 baths and 2086 sf at $519k, 3406 Piperfife Court with 4 beds, 4 baths and 3129 sf at $539k, 3315 Darby Road with 4 beds, 5.5 baths and 4316 sf at $764.9k and 3376 Dunscroft Court with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 2368 sf at $511k. Around the area is “Lafayette” at 553 Clarks Tract with 6 beds, 6.5 baths, 92 acres and 8084 sf just available at $2.795m, 4915 Moriah Way with 4 beds, 4.5 baths and 4446 sf available at $517.9k, 174 Deerview Road with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 2016 sf available at $324.9k and 5068 Stony Point Pass with 4 beds, 3 baths and 2368 sf now back on the market from an original $319k now at $295k. Under contract in Glenmore was 3268 Heathcote Lane with 6 beds, 4.5 baths and 5210 sf at $750k in 8 days. 3515 Wedgewood Court with 4 beds, 3 baths and 4429 sf at $595k in 18 days, 3660 Perthshire Court with 6 beds, 6.5 baths and 7810 sf and $865k down to $799k in 170 days, 1651 Gatwick Place with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3305 sf at $665k in 53 days and 3415 Cotswold Lane with 5 beds, 4.5 baths and 3771 sf at $735k down to $720k in 92 days. Around the area 3803 Keswick Road with 3 beds, 2 baths, 2.3 acres and 2081 sf at $284.9k in 21 days, 554 Clarks Tract with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3614 sf at $519.9k down to $450k in 383 days, 481 Clarks Tract with 4 beds, 3 baths, 11 acres and 2527 sf at $499k in 102 days and 3201 Shannon Drive with 3 beds, 2 baths and 2376 sf at $299k in 93 days. Three sales to report. 1790 Shelbourn Lane with 4 beds, 4.5 baths and 4465 sf listed at $665k sold for $592.4k in 11 days, 3662 Newbridge Road, a new home with 6 beds, 3.5 baths and 4953 sf listed at $984.9k sold for $1.192m with upgrades and 3308 Merrick Court with 4 beds, 2.5 baths and 2615 sf listed at $599k sold for $555k in 127 days.
Vote Weddings Bradley Rhodes and Beth Ann Atkins tied the knot on Saturday, September 10th, a top a picturesque mountain clearing at East Belmont Farm. The bride, looking radiant and beautiful, was escorted down the aisle by her two grown sons as the groom, a hunting enthusiast, awaited aside an incredible arbor that was custom built for the occassion – adorned with a large Elk's rack and flowers. The handsomely appointed groom was flanked by best man Kenny Wheeler. Longtime Keswick residents Will and Peg Holt (his Mother) were dressed to the nines and seated front and center at the union. The 150 plus witnesses adjorned to the Rivanna Firehouse to ring in the night, cockail, share a meal and celebrate Beth Ann and Bradley's big day. Beth Ann is the stylist/owner of Split Endz Charlottesville in the Rio Road Center, Charlottesville and Bradley is co-owner of Keswick Lawn and Landscape of Keswick, Virginia.
Two Blind Brothers and a Sister! The Keswick Life cover story in June 2016 feature Brad and Brian Mannings philathropic driven clothing company for men which promised a woman's line of clothing coming soon. Well, it's FINALLY here! Their sister, Katie Manning, joins forces with her recently announced "SIGHTED SISTER" line for women. Shop it now online at TwoBlindBrothers. com! If you just heard about this, watch the video, share it, and be a part of our mission and growing family.
A General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, for the offices of: President and Vice President of the United States, and Member United States House of Representatives, 5th District. The full ballot in Albemarle County will also present two proposed amendments to the Constitution of Virginia and a referendum for a general obligation bond to fund school improvements. To see the choices that will be on your ballot on November 8, visit the Voter Registration website at www.albemarle. org/vote and click on “Current Ballot.”
Yeah Alison! Albemarle Magazine won a gold and a silver award at the 36th annual International Regional Magazine Association (IRMA) awards dinner held September 19 in Ft. Lauderdale. IRMA members include regional publications from across the U.S. and Canada. The awards were granted for work published in 2015, and judged by independent panels of experts.
is truly an honor. On behalf of the albemarle team, who has worked so hard for so long to make our magazine a success, this is an incredibly gratifying, exciting time for us as we celebrate our 29th year in publishing Albemarle.” The Gold Award for Photo Series was presented to albemarle for Seeing Seeds by Robert Llewellyn, which appeared in the August/ September 2015 issue. Charlottesville photographer Robert Llewellyn has been photographing the Virginia countryside, its trees, people, and historic places for almost four decades. His images have been featured in albemarle Magazine and art galleries across the state. More than thirty books featuring his photography are in print. Llewellyn is currently working on a new book project to be released early Fall 2017.www.robertllewellyn.com. The Silver Award in the Art Direction of a Single Story category was also presented to albemarle for the Seeing Seeds feature from the August/September 2015 issue, honoring Michael Fitts, Alison Dickie, Robert Llewellyn, and Eden Weathersby.
albemarle publisher Alison Dickie says, “Given the extraordinary level of quality among this group of magazines, receiving these awards
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KESWICK LIFE
The GOING OUT Guide Mark your calendars! Save the date! Don’t be late! THE RACES
Paddock Party
Where: The Paddock at the Montpelier Steeplechase When: Friday, November 4th, 6:30 p.m.
The Montpelier Steeplechase & Equestrian Foundation invites you
to the Paddock Party (the evening before the Montpelier Hunt Races) featuring an Oyster Bar and Scotch Tasting by Virginia Distillery Dinner and Dancing. Country Casual Attire. Please respond by October 28th
GREAT FAMILY FUN Foxfield Races Where: Foxfield Racecourse When: Sunday, September 25
The annual Foxfield Fall Races will take place on Sunday, Septem-
ber 25. This iconic Charlottesville event kicks off with gates opening at 10:00 a.m. and Jack Russell Terrier races starting at noon. The first horse races will follow shortly thereafter at 1:30 p.m. This familyfriendly event features many activities for all ages including pony rides, face painting and much moreTickets and Reserved Parking Spaces are ON-SALE NOW in the Race Office! To order tickets, please give us a call at 434-293-9501 or email information@foxfieldraces.comChildren 8 & under are FREE. The 2016 Race Beneficiary is Big Brothers, Big Sisters. For additional details, visit www.foxfieldraces.com/fall.
State Fair of Virginia Where: The Meadow Event Park When: September 23rd – October 2nd
The State Fair of Virginia readies for its 10-day run that will begin
September 23 at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County. The fair will open at 10 a.m. each morning through October 2, and the Midway by Virginia Lottery and Kidway by Virginia College Savings Plan will open at 11. Advance tickets deliver savings and easy access Streamlined visits to the State Fair begin with advance tickets, which save fairgoers time and money. Advance tickets can be purchased at StateFairVa.org and at participating Walgreens locations in Virginia.The fair Ticket Plaza will feature a new express lane specifically for anyone who has purchased an advance ticket. Advance tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for youth 5-12 and seniors 60 and older. They can be used any day during the fair. Children 4 and younger will be admitted free. Season passes are available online for $40 through September 20. For further information go to StateFairVa.org
29th Annual Fall Fiber Festival Where: Montpelier When: October 1st & 2nd - Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm - Sunday : 10 am - 4pm
Planning is underway to bring you great workshops for adults and
children, animal exhibits, sheep dog trials, hands-on demonstrations, a fleece sale, fiber and crafts vendors, music and more. Check back often for info and updates on workshops, competitions, vendor listings, and hands-on demo schedules. Please visit us on Facebook for updates! Admission :Adults - $5 16 & under FREE. Pets are not allowed at the festival. For further information: info@fallfiberfestival.org.
RAISE A GLASS Martha’s Market Preview
THE BIG EVENT Critter Ball
Where: John Paul Jones Arena When: Thursday, October 13th – 6:30 pm
Where: Castle Hill Cider, Keswick, Virginia When: October 14th
The Preview Party will take place Thursday, Oc- Please join us at Castle Hill Cider on Friday, October 13th from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at the John Paul Jones Arena. Be among the first to shop the collection of over 80 unique boutiques and enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres and live music while shopping for a great cause. 15% of every dollar spent at the Preview Party and Martha's Market supports the exceptional women's healthcare at Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital. For further information: www.mjhfoundation.org/preview-party
tober 14 at 6:30PM for a night of dancing, cocktails and delicious cuisine to honor our decadelong achievement as a No Kill community and support the life-saving care at the CharlottesvilleAlbemarle SPCA. In addition to live and silent auctions, this year’s Critter Ball attendees will be entertained by Motown performers Kustom Made! hands-on demo schedules. Please visit us on Facebook for updates! At James Madison's Montpelier . ADMISSION: adults - $5 and kids 16 & under free, pets are not allowed at the festival : e: info@fallfiberfestival.org.
POLITICS Diplomatic Challenges for the Next Administration CHALLENGE Where: Montalto, Robert H. Smith Center Theodora A. Randolph Field When: Saturday, October 22, 2016 - 9:00am to Hunter Championships 3:30pm The next US administration will confront a tu-
multuous world full of formidable diplomatic challenges. Any American response is complicated by the differing interests of parties and states whose cooperation is essential to finding solutions. Defending and further promoting our interests while also promoting our values—which sustain our country as well as our allies and friends—will be the core diplomatic challenge for the new president. The event will feature three speakers who will highlight different perspectives on this issue. Ambassador Charles Ries will focus on the controversial topic of multilateral trade deals and the possibility of restructuring the global economic order to better fit the 21st century. Diplomatic and military affairs traditionally have been separated, but Ambassador Ronald Neumann will challenge this rule as a solution to modern and unconventional challenges in the field. Transnational issues have also influenced American diplomacy in recent years, and Ambassador Eric Schwartz will argue for increased input and assistance from world powers and institutions to respond to these issues.
Come celebrate the fall in Virginia and find out how your field hunter measures up. More than a competition, the Theodora A. Randolph Field Hunter Championships should be on every foxhunter's bucket list. Sixty horse and rider combinations from around the country gather for four action-packed days of glorious autumn hunting behind some of the best foxhound packs in Virginia, with social events interspersed in between. The week culminates with finals held at the Middleburg Fall Races. Dates for 2016 qualifying meets include: • Monday, October 3 – Middleburg Hunt; • Tuesday, October 4 – Bull Run Hunt; • Wednesday, Oct 5 – Orange County Hounds • Thursday, October 6 – Blue Ridge Hunt. Mounted judges ride alongside the numbered contestants, selecting horse and rider combinations based on manners, style and suitability of foxhunting mounts after each meet. A best turned out award is also given each day.
The keynote address will be delivered by Ambassador Barbara Bodine, Distinguished Professor in the Practice of Diplomacy and concurrent Director of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University. Prior to joining Georgetown University, she taught on US diplomacy in the Persian Gulf region, including Iraq and Yemen, for seven years at Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs.Sponsored by the American Academy of Diplomacy and Monticello's Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies. For more information email: academy@academyofdiplomacy.org
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SEPTEMBER 2016
a Tony Vanderwarker has just released a
new book, I’m Not From the South But I Got Down Here As Fast As I Could – How a Connecticut Yankee Learned To Love Grits and Fried Green Tomatoes And Lived To Tell About It. I caught up with Tony to get a candid look at the author's background, the new book, the writing process and life in general. Keswick is full of diversity. Historic farms with manicured road fronts flank the cottages, bungalows, and the more modest dwellings. It has working people, stay at home people, business types, caregivers, families, white-collar types, and a few billionaires. The friendly people in Keswick come from near and far, from the 'North' and the 'South,' some from other places and some have been here all along. Home is comfort – it is where you can be yourself, let your guard down and just relax. The 'community' where the stories are born, the bonds are made, and you build a life with 'your' people. The parties, some quite famously, are the melting pot for the young and old, the working and the leisure types. All the faces are familiar, whether you are at a backyard pig roast on Clarks Tract or in a barn transformed in honor of ‘the big’ night of the moment. While waking up in the Keswick world, at times, the rest of the world seems so far away. We come to Keswick and find a guy next door. In case you've missed him, his name is Tony Vanderwarker. I met Tony to do this article at my studio at Liberty Park, a former factory building, in Gordonsville, located just behind a Food Lion located in a quaint small town strip mall with a menagerie of mostly eating-places. The plant, an all too typical modern American story, closed down af-
COVER STORY BY COLIN J. DOUGHERTY
Keswick PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH CRAMER
ter the lace fabric they produced could be done for less outside of the United States, three shifts of 625 people lost their jobs nearly overnight. He quickly found my space amongst the in progress rehabilitation of the factory to smaller flex spaces, he has an unmistakable confidence, with a street smarts sensibility – familiar and highly self-aware. He is 70, sharply dressed but mostly casual, has a distinctive style, a warm smile, a kind soul and shaves the stubble from his head every morning. We arranged some comfortable seats and sat down. He looked at me and smiled.
Tony grew up in quintessential northern suburbia, Connecticut, with working parents who wanted a better life for themselves and their two sons. A young Tony would follow the course his parents set for him. He attended the highly selective, preparatory high school for boarding students, Phillips Andover in Massachusetts. He was being groomed, "set up to meet the perfect blond haired Daddy's girl" he quips, with the wealthy family and get the comfortable life. Tony thought, "what is all this business," knowing deep inside that this doesn't feel right. His parents befriended others who had something that they desired themselves, social climbers, who thought the rich walked on water. Among the many things imparted from parent to child, they described to Tony and his younger brother a South that was full of hillbillies – not their type of individuals. In school, Tony was a frustrated artist, deeply embedded in this life but not of his making – not yet able to break out of the rut. At Andover, his advisor works up a Morehead Scholarship opportunity for consideration in North Carolina. Tony
Story
explains, "I felt like, was that all I was capable of, a school down in the South, in North Carolina, where is that exactly, and is this all this guy thinks of me?" He ends up at Yale, and for the proud parents, all seemed to be on track. Tony explains he had an epiphany during his sophomore year, bagged his mother's vision of his life and quit Yale. Ambitious to flourish in the change up, Tony joins the Peace Corps and heads to Africa. Spends a year there and gets inspired by film then back to school, this time at NYU. In a cinema program, Tony flexes his creative muscles, finds comfort in his skin, graduates with a degree in Cinema and makes a full-length theatrical film – it is the late 1960's. Next up, sick of freelancing in the movie business, he moved to Chicago to get into advertising. He had a rapid rise in the ad biz first as a copywriter, then as creative director where he worked on McDonalds' "twoallbeefpattiesspecialsauceletture cheese", "Big Mac Attack" and then, when he started his own agency with two partners, did "Be Like Mike" for Gatorade. During a visit to Chicago by his parents, Tony was walking them around his two-hundred person, $180 million in billings agency when his mother reverted to form and asked, "Don't you miss being back at the agency that was listed on the New York Stock Exchange?" His father quickly reminded her, "But Patty,
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he owns this whole place." In Chicago, life is good, business is booming, and Tony meets Annie, they get married, and life is even better. Annie has two young boys of her own, they marry and have two more kids together with a house in the suburbs – a blended union, a modern fairytale. The partners, at the ad firm he helped to create, unexpectedly execute the buyout clause, which lands Tony on the sidewalk. So the question was, "Do we stay or do we go?" Stay in familiar territory or strike out and try something new. The moment came, albeit not entirely but surely it was a catalyst – while Tony and Annie were walking in the neighborhood they spot their two younger kids sipping fancy hot drinks in the window of the Starbucks along the walk to their school. Too much sophistication too soon, they thought. They decide to move to Charlottesville and take advantage of Annie's family there for some support. The indoctrinated Northerners settle into the Charlottesville area, first to Ivy then to Keswick. Setting all his predispositions aside, Tony embraced the South, the warmth, and fellowship of its' rich culture and roll-with-it ways. And now, circuitously, they are in the South, and unexpectedly it would change them all for the better.
KESWICK LIFE
Tony Vanderwarker has written a memoir, dedicated to all he cherishes about his life changing move to the South. He quickly realized upon his move to Virginia, the South wasn't filled with mountain people but instead he found the simpler way of life he was so eager to embrace for his family and his well-being. His ad agency partners might have given him one of the best-unwelcomed opportunities, despite the forced retirement and resulting relocation; a familiar story for many people in America today. For Tony, the South was warmer, in all the ways this word invokes, and in contrast made the North seem cold and distant. Here others are accepting of your way of life; there is little judgment and if there is it considered irrelevant. The book brings Keswick to life; full of stories that were begging to be told. Tony explains, "My book is a love letter to Keswick. Not only is Keswick stunningly beautiful, it's a marvelous place that asks to be brought to life. Here we have celebrities and billionaires living side-byside with hairdressers, farriers, and farm managers. Tony and Annie offer cottages on their farm to the Airbnb service; the guests are amazed – they come from all over the world to see and share the magic of the area. The South is changing. We talk about the fancier foods, with sophisticated flavors that pay homage to their origins but now put the food on the world map. The greater Charlottesville area has broad appeal, with the downtown mall, world-class museums and living history experiences and exhibits at Monticello, all just a few miles apart. The genesis of Tony's book was the incredible response to his column "Only in Keswick" in this paper, where Tony began to tell his stories of the incredible people and amazing things that happen here. "You ought to put these together in a book," more than one reader said. Stories like the ones about Chita Hall, who kept lions and bears (even reportedly an elephant) on her property, who would give cans of pop to her pet bear Betsy and delight in watching her perch on her haunches and glug the soda down. Or her husband Chet who trained his parrot to say salacious things. Once an encyclopedia salesman came to the door, the parrot invited him in and then said, “Sic him” to the Doberman who chased the terrified guy off the farm. Or the business tycoon who hits and kills a huge buck with his truck right in front of his farm and leaves the carcass to get help to dispose of the critter, Quickly returning, they find in the meantime, someone had stopped and used a chain saw to hack the head off the carcass in order to take the rack home for themselves, leaving the headless body behind. The stories are true Keswick, wild and wonderful. Tony adds, "Everybody appreciates the leveling factor; no one looks down on anyone. The book is good-na-
tured with the sense of 'Isn't it great to be living in this amazing place?'" Many of the stories are outlandish and could only happen here. For instance, the wedding that got rained out by bats dropping from the ceiling. One of his neighbors says, "There are no secrets in Keswick." The writer feels that people in Keswick willingly share stories, tribulations as well as personal heartbreaks and hardship. "When someone gets sick or has a tragedy, the calls are made, the food starts to flow and countless, 'How can I help?" calls go out." This is quintessential Keswick, very Southern, and the way it has been done here for generations. Tony has written millions of ads and a bunch of books, but it took him twenty years to get his first published. He has published three, Writing With the Master, Sleeping Dogs and Ads For God. The writing process seems to come naturally for Tony; it suits his seemingly systematic ways. He writes, standing up, for three hours in the morning, like it is his job, just five days a week and shoots for a thousand to twelve hundred words per day – he admits some days are slower than others. Using a computer, he keeps the ideas flowing without getting hung up on shaping the story, which comes later. The ideas rush in for the books, sometimes while driving in a car, or at a cocktail party and they often don't flesh out as quickly, they have to ruminate. Tony explains he is not a plotter; some writers he admires, like John Grisham, are outline-driven and develop characters with a clear path from beginning to end. Tony wings it, characterized by writers as pantsing (putting your pants--and what's in them--in a chair) and writes without an outline. "You end up hitting the delete key a lot," he says, "but it's the way I feel most comfortable writing." He says he's become good at editing, "Bad writing is like hitting a wrong note or farting in church. I sniff ugly stuff out as fast as pigs do truffles." Typos bug him, as they do all writers, "They are like ants, you think you've swatted them all and then another crawls out. I dread seeing them in my published books because I see them all the time in others." He dismisses "writers' block," saying, "the writer creates it so he can destroy it." Tony gives aspiring writers the following simple advice, a quote from Thomas Edison: "Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." "That's my motto when it comes to writing, 'Never give up; you never know when you'll find your pay dirt.'" Tony started writing funny stuff, struck out a bunch of times, then tried non-fiction, Writing With The Master, then a thriller, Sleeping Dogs, but found humor (with Ads For God) was his niche. "Hiaasen, Dave Barry, and David Sedaris are my idols. But I get a kick out of some of my
stuff too. And I absolutely love it when someone comes up to me and says, 'Your article made me laugh my ass off!' That's one of the great rewards of writing for you guys (Winky and Colin at KL). People come up to me at the post office, at parties, it really brings my writing home." Tony started writing stories for I'm Not From the South about three years ago. "When the book finally does come out (Nov. 17), it will feel like I wrote it ages ago." Our pantser is already working on his next book, titled, Visits to Venus, How a Man From Mars Can Survive the Marital Wars. Tony has fun playing with the differences men and women have as displayed in driving, parking, making beds, loading the dishwasher and other lifechanging experiences. An excerpt from the new book was published recently in Keswick Life titled, 'I Married a Garden Club' – the response was immediate, he hit a nerve with husbands from all walks of life. Tony radiates infinite gratitude to have had these experiences with the books, the very personal stories and the people he meets in the process. We have all heard it takes a village to raise a kid, well there are some people in Tony's camp worth a mention. First, his family that enjoys his writing and are jubilant with him doing it. One son, a graphic designer, did the first three book covers. In general, they accept Tony and his creative tendencies as a way of life for them - each creative in their individual endeavors perhaps as a result of Tony's example in his determination to release the caged and frustrated artist he recognized in himself so many years ago. Tony stresses that Annie, his wife, "is entirely on board with the writing, and that is great" and adds "the most important thing is she still laughs at my jokes." Tony uses Beta readers, known as a prereader or critiquer, a group of friends in his case; some who are writers as well. The group, which consists of mostly women, read his written work with the intent of looking over the material to find and improve elements such as grammar and spelling, as well as suggestions to improve the story, its characters, or flow. Done before public consumption of his material, the Beta readers are not explicitly proofreaders or editors, but serve him in that context. Mary Murray, in Charlottesville, designed the cover with a Grant Wood, American Gothic, feel with a bit of Green Acres mixed in. Sarah Cramer Shields, a local photographer, took the photograph. Duke Merrick is one of the people the book is dedicated to, as he threw the phrase out at a Keswick Hunt Club party in the intro to one of his songs, saying, "I saw a bumper sticker that read, I'm Not From the South But I Got Down Here As Fast As I Could." Tony quickly scribbled it down, realizing it would characterize his book the way many titles don't.
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The publisher and publicist are keys to the success as it is their network of contacts that Tony uses to try to make the book stand out among the bombardment of eight hundred books or more published in the United States every day. He adds, "The publicist opens the world up to you, it is who they know as it is impossible to get on television and broadcast the message yourself." Most well-written books that just don't sell suffer from the fact that nobody noticed it, Tony comments "the headlines take over everything or sometimes it is just bad luck." His publisher, a small outfit in Mississippi, saw the potential in both the book and the title. Tony said, "Americans of any age, but particularly Boomers, are looking for alternatives." And perhaps, I joke, a pitchfork and mint julep, too. He agrees and underlines the changing Southern culture as well as its more pleasant climate. His book has a memoir feel, a Year In Provence character, about the longing for something new and different (and maybe also cooler, cheaper and with more character). So far, he's been pleased with the reactions, "If people like my Keswick Life stuff, they'll love this." And one of his Beta readers said, "I absolutely howled through the whole thing." The Kindle edition is now up on Amazon and Tony watches the sales carefully, hoping that he'll get enough before November 15 when it publishes, to qualify for Amazon's bestseller list which catapults him up the Amazon ladder. If you are inclined to make an order today, I guarantee you won't be sorry. In the meantime, Tony, who is always writing even if his hands aren't on the keyboard, will be out there mowing the lawn listening to NPR or kicking back with Hiaasen's latest in hand.
Tony Vanderwarker
How a ConneCtiCut Yankee Came to love Grits, Fried Green tomatoes and tHe soutHern waY oF liFe and lived to tell about it
I’m Not From the South But I Got Down Here As Fast As I Could
How a Connecticut Yankee Learned To Love Grits and Fried Green Tomatoes And Lived To Tell About It
Now Available for pre-order on Amazon Kindle, and in bookstores November 17th
SEPTEMBER 2016
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◆ KESWICK GOLF COURSE ◆ This extraordinary 2.4-acre lot with the new Peter Dye Golf Course wrapped around two sides is priced well below the original purchase price, is by far the best lot available, and is the best value within the club. MLS#503871 $350,000 Tim Michel 434.960.1124
◆ REDCLIFFE ◆ Circa 1902, one of Virginia’s most beautiful estates. Gracious entertaining rooms, chef ’s kitchen with 15’ ceilings, art gallery, saltwater pool, guest cottage, on 45 rolling acres minutes from Downtown and UVA. MLS#541726 $6,950,000 Andrew Middleditch 434.981.1410
◆ ERRIGAL FARM ◆ Pristine, 101-acre horse farm near Somerset. Renovated and enlarged 5,500 finished sq. ft. main house, guest cottage, 10-stall stable, inground pool, riding ring, run-in sheds. 30 min. to Charlottesville. MLS#547840 $1,735,000 Jim Faulconer 434.981.0076
◆ COLLINA ◆ Gorgeous, 113 acre parcel in NE Albemarle with a blend of open pasture and magnificent forest and an elevated plateau with panoramic Blue Ridge views! Also with a 3 bedroom, 3 bath cottage in great condition. MLS#530335 $1,490,000 Jim Faulconer 434.981.0076
◆ ECHO BROOK FARM ◆ Comfortable residence on 80+/- acres boasts: living and dining rooms, kitchen with breakfast room, family room, 4 bedrooms, 1stfloor master. Also with a cottage, two barns, and Mechunk Creek frontage. MLS#546552 $775,000 Charlotte Dammann 434.981.1250
◆ WALNUT HILL FARM ◆ Extraordinary, 64+ acre farm with 3 homes, 2 ponds, pastures, hardwoods, and much more. Main residence is a passive solar home with optimum efficiency. MLS#547207 $1,100,000 Will Faulconer 434.987.9455 Tim Michel 434.960.1124
www.mcleanfaulconer.com 10
KESWICK LIFE
HORSIN' AROUND
2016 Sallie B. Wheeler/US Hunter Breeding National Championship Handlers, owners, and breeders showcased their top hunter prospects this past week at the 2016 Sallie B. Wheeler/US Hunter Breeding National Championship. The competition was held in two phases. Entrants on the East Coast presented their horses at the Virginia Young Horse Festival in Lexington, Va., on Saturday, August 27, while those on the West Coast took part in the Showpark All Seasons Summer Tournament in Del Mar, Calif., on Wednesday, August 31. Following both phases, judges Sue Ash and Keith Hastings awarded Prospect Hill, East Coast entrant, Overall Grand Champion, and Wynter, West Coast entrant, Overall Reserve Grand Champion. This is the fourth consecutive year and the 10th time in the Championship's two-phase history that the Overall Grand Champion derived from the East Coast phase. Before winning the Overall Grand Champion Best Young Horse, Prospect Hill (Nob Hill x Sincerely Yours/ Ariadus), a 2015 Oldenburg colt owned, bred, and trained by Diana Dodge of Nokomis Farms and handled by Charlie Brown, won the East Coast Best Young Horse Award. He also won the $1,000 Yearling Colts/ Geldings class. In addition, Dodge earned the East Coast Leading Owner Award. She received The J. Arthur Reynolds Memorial Trophy, as the breeder of the Overall Grand Hunter Breeding Champion. Prospect Hill received The Dave Kelley Perpetual Trophy as the Overall Grand Champion Best Young Horse.
Amour (Apiro x First Tri/Tricolore), a 2014 Belgian Warmblood filly, owned by Elizabeth Capor, handled by Brown, and bred by Elisha Massong, won the Belgian Warmblood Breeding Association Award. Kanndid SPF (Banderas x Quartz F.M./Kannan), a 2015 KPWN stallion, owned and trained by Deborah Day, handled by Jay Francella, and bred by Tracy Geller, won the KWPN of North America Award. Houdini M (Valentino Z x Windsong/Branco), a 2013 gelding, owned, trained, handled, and bred by Sabra Molter, won The Stud-Book sBs (Belgian Sport Horse Society) Award.
Last year's Overall Grand Champion Best Young Horse, Solaris EMF (Sir Wanabi x Panache EMF/Pablo), a 2014 Hanoverian colt, owned by Cismont Manor Farm, handled by Kenneth Wheeler, and bred by Kris Schuler, earned the East Coast Reserve Champion Best Young Horse. He also won the $1,000 Two-Year-Old Colts/ Geldings Class and the American Hanoverian Society Breed Registry Award - photograph to the left. Additional Breed Registry Awards went to the following horses:
Malbec (Windy Chimes x Chimes Band/Chimes Bond), a 2013 gelding, owned, trained, and handled by Christie Saunders and bred by Matt Martin, won the Oldenburg Registry of North America Award. Reflection (Rosenthal x Pardon Me Boys/Domestic Dispute), a 2015 Oldenburg filly, owned by Harriet Schiele, handled by Emily Anne Belin, and bred by Margaret Sherman, won the Oldenburg Horse Breeders Society Award. Belin also was named the East Coast Leading Handler and received The Belcort Farm Perpetual Trophy, donated by Walter Lee.
Warrenton's Hunt Night - Keswick Champions Keswick once again took home the honors of being the highest scoring hunt club at Warrenton's Hunt Night. Keswick was champion with 84 points and Warrenton with about 40 was reserve champion. Jordan Sipe was the overall champion on En Vogue with 28 points. En Vogue was donated to Sally Lamb and he is now 27. Jordan and En Vogue recently won the Noel Twyman award at Keswick Hunt Night Jordan and En Vogue won the junior hack, weresecond in the hunt teams ,second in the junior over fences, and second in the pairs. Lizzie Rives was second overall in the warm up which was over 60 horses on her horse , Cruiser. She was also 4th in the Corinthian, and 6th in the 18 to 30. Sandy Rives was 7th in over 45, 2th in Corinthian, 4th in hack, 4th in staff class. Tony Gammell was second in Staff and second in Hunt Team and won the Best Turned Out. Chandra Boylen (pictured to the left) won the 31 to 35 hunters and second in women's hack and second in hunt teams . Keswick members also competing :Morgan Minter received good ribbons throughout the night including a 3rd place over fences. Rachael Dunwell received a 3rd over fences, Jennifer Nesbit placed in both the Staff class and her over fences class, and Jill Wilson earned multiple ribbons both over fences and in the hack. With many thanks to Sally Lamb who owns or donated every horse on the Keswick team. “Sidelight� Jordan, and Lizzie all had 9 o clock college classes the following day . Jordan's father drove her all the way back to Hollins that night!
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11
SEPTEMBER 2016
KESWICK SCENE
14th Annual Keswick Hunt Club Puppy Show BY SHELLEY PAYNE
It was lovely Indian Summer evening at the Keswick Hunt Club this past Saturday
where nearly 150 members and friends of the club gathered for the 14th Annual Puppy Show. The evening commenced with the traditional Pimms cocktail served by Connie and Rohn Laudenschlager. Then everyone’s attention turned to the ring in front of the club where MFH Andy Lynn introduced the evening’s judges, Jake Carle, ex-MFH Then off to the main attraction – showing puppies! As in recent years, the hounds were ably shown by the junior members of the hunt club, with only a moderate amount of mayhem ensuing! Ultimately, the winners were announced: the Best Dog was handled by James Gammell, taking after his father, Huntsman Tony Gammell, and Bitch was handled by Wallace Williams. The junior handlers then received some well-deserved goody bags and engaged in several fun activities designed by Melissa Zeller and Whitney Gammell with help from Noelle Stith, Mary Shriver, Chanda Boylen, Ashley Williams and many other junior parents.
A fabulous buffet dinner was served thanks to the talented efforts of Sally Lamb, Terry Clore, Cathy Giambalvo and Joan Poskey under the direction of Jerri Pitz. During the Puppy Show and dinner, the guests were able to bid on a large selection of silent auction items, from wonderful vacation homes and a stay at Keswick Hall to jewelry, art and of course, lots of horse, fox and hound themed items. At the conclusion of the silent auction the puppy show winners were “auctioned” off in a live auction led by Don Skelly. Then it was time to turn up the tunes and start dancing! Many thanks to everyone who supported this fun event, where all proceeds go towards supporting the Keswick Hunt Club hounds!
Keswick Hunt Club Puppy Show Photo Journal: Top Row, left to right: James Gammell, Tony Gammell and Wallace Williams show the winners!, Annie Burke and next the happy hound awaits its' time in the spotlight. Second Row: Ruby Ford then Tulip Ford, Helen Matheson, Ruby Ford, Adelaide Dixon and Percy Mascotte. Third Row: Tristan Kangas.
12
KESWICK LIFE
A Vi rg in ia C ou n t ry L ife
GARDNER FARM
Proximity to several international airports and mid-atlantic cities The Gardner Farm is an expansive retreat of 1,563 acres that offers the highest degree of privacy and bucolic tranquility rural Virginia can offer. Over 3.8 miles of the South Anna River traverses the property with approximately 20 miles in trails extending through forests of poplar and oak and several unique river crossings link this private parkland with numerous potential home sites and 4 scenic ponds and a 30 acre lake. Expansive pastoral views of hay fields and fenced paddocks a comfortable colonial country home and equipment shop also included with this incredibly unique offering.
DER
UN
CT
TRA
N CO
SECLUSION MANOR - Circa 1844 historic country home with access to Lake Anna in Louisa County. Clapboard siding and standing seam roof, 6 Bedrooms, 4 ½ baths, fenced pasture with fresh water for livestock. Expansive porches, beautiful gardens, guest house and detached garage. Full finished basement offers private entrance and could be used as a separate apartment. Guest house has been used as separate rental in past, it has 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath. There are 9 working fireplaces, all with lined chimneys and rebuilt fireboxes.MLS#537469
LITTLE GREEN - Nearly 10-acres in the heart of Greenwood, with a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountain views. The 3,100 S.F. contemporary farm house designed by Formworks Arch. and built by Greer and Assoc. has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with potential for large 1st floor master suite. Clean lines and light filled spaces in every direction inspire with modern living inside and bringing the outside natural beauty in through wester facing glass doors. Potential for horses and livestock, incredible location with easy access to Charlottesville. MLS #548820
DEER RIDGE - Deer Ridge Farm, 218 ac.set at the foothills of the South West Mountain Range 15 minutes drive south of Charlottesville, VA. Three substantial ponds, two of which are larger than 3.5 -acres in size. The elegant country road to the farm passes the former homes of two Presidents, Monticello (Jefferson) and Ashlawn (Monroe). The property is adjacent to several large farms and across the road from the largest vineyard on the eastern seaboard. The property is ideal for recreational retreat or agricultural and forestall use. Conservation easements apply. Privacy and scenic country beauty in every direction with miles of walking trails. MLS 547863
NAGS HEAD FARM - North West Albemarle Co. horse farm priced competitively in excellent condition. The 24-ac. lends itself to the rolling fields and pastoral setting with a renovated home and stables. The house is has excellent light and view over three fenced horse paddocks and many upgrades on the main level and walk out basement. New Deck built in 2016. There is a separate drive for the stable area, also in excellent condition and very serviceable for horses. A rare offering at this price, ideal for equestrian enthusiast. MLS # 546338
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KESWICK LIFE
ONLY IN KESWICK Airbnb Adventures
In the middle of the night, she’s awakened by the sound
of a car pulling up outside. Checks the clock, 3:14. Gets out of bed, pulls back the curtain and peeks out into the dark. She can barely make out a car. Then she sees two flashlights flicker on, iPhones eerily peering around the driveway. “Claire, wake up, there are people out there, men, four of them, I think,” she says, shaking her partner. “What?” Claire grumbles, sits up. “Do you think they are burglars?” Naomi asks. “Tony and Annie said they never have problems.” “Well we do now, I think they are coming up here. I can see their shadows, just barely but that’s what it looks like.” “Oh, s***! What do we do?” “I can hear them opening the door.” “There’s a paring knife in the kitchenette.” “You think I’m going to stab someone? Now they’re coming up the stairs. I’m going to go and put my weight against the door, try to keep them out.” “Better put this on first, you’re stark naked.” Claire says as she throws Naomi a robe. Shrugging on the robe, Naomi leans against the door, with her hand gripping the door handle. She feels it moving in her hand. Ginning up her loudest voice, she pleads, “Please, don’t open the door.” Silence, then footsteps.
BY TONY VANDERWARKER
“I think I hear them going down the stairs.”
your guests up last night, I feel terrible about that!
Claire goes to the window and cranks it open. She sees four guys walking across the lawn toward the parking area. She says to them, “Is there anything I can help you with?”
“That’s an honest mistake,” Claire said. “Dumb but honest—I’ve certainly done my share of stupid things. Claire and Naomi, who live in the Cotswalds, had booked the studio for five days so Claire could show her partner where she lived for ten years in the 80s.
One of them looks up at her and says, “No, sorry about that, I guess Tony must have double-booked.”
“Again, we feel terrible. What hosts we are—slept through the whole business.”
Of course, Tony and Annie slept through the whole thing. Not even the dogs heard their car coming in.
“Actually, it’s the most exciting thing that’s happened on our trip to the States, our friends back in England will love hearing the story.”
“Can you believe I said that?” Claire says the next day as she tells us about their nocturnal adventure in our studio. “I didn’t say, ‘you better get out of here, I’ve got a gun.’” Instead I say, “Is there anything I can help you with. Now I’m English, but that’s being a little too proper.”
“You bet,” I joke. “It’s not always you have a home invasion and live to tell about it.” The day before, they had asked if they could extend their stay.
Fortunately they are being good sports about it. “We’re so sorry,” we say.
I told them it was booked but they were welcome to stay in our guest room on Saturday, “It’s the least we can do,” we said.
“I got a text from the guys,” Annie says. “Let me read it to you.”
Fortunately, everything worked out for both parties, the guys stayed in the studio on Saturday and the ladies in our guest room.
Hi Annie So apparently I booked the wrong dates - I meant to book Friday - Sun. Me and my party arrived late last night. We met the people currently staying in the studio. We accidentally woke them up not knowing they'd be there. Gave them a bit of a scare - please extend my apologies to them! They seemed in good spirits about it tho.
And we were invited to spend time with the ladies at their house in the Cotswalds. That’s Airbnb for you, people who locked themselves out, owners who book themselves out, and guests that get woken up in the middle of the night. But all’s well that ends well.
We made accommodations by staying at holiday inn last night, so it worked out for us.. Again, so sorry for waking
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SEPTEMBER 2016
16
KESWICK LIFE
LIFE, MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Laughing At Fears and Uncertainty BY MARY MORONY
Unfortunately,
there is an extreme amount of uncertainty for us to fear currently. There’s the presidential election, enough said. There’s also climate change, international, economic and political uncertainty all around us. All of this uncertainty makes for a scary proposition when we’ve already snuggled into bed with the devils we know; It is hard going to rouse much enthusiasm for a new bedmate. What if the new one is worse? What then? And what if the solution we choose ends up giving us more problems to resolve? It’s entirely possible. My old furry friend and fellow blogger, Hagar (MaryMorony.com/canineconundrums) is consistently teaching me lessons that help me laugh at my fears and uncertainties. Especially when we walk together in the woods. There are so many things to rile up our worries in the forest. For me, there are snakes and ticks. For him, there are flies. Hagar is a Great Dane by breed, (in case you’ve never read about him before) and at 11 hands, that’s 44 inches. I had to measure him with my hands because he is afraid of a tape measure, the idea of him being afraid of something as small and insignificant as a fly, borders on the absurd. It is ridiculous, even more so for me. Look at the ratio of me to a tick or snake. Size clearly has nothing to do with fear. When I think about it, isn’t almost everything we fear smaller than we are? Odd isn’t is? But I digress, back to the walk. So, try to imagine walking with a dog taller than a Shetland pony who insists
on walking on the narrow deer path inches ahead of you. This behemoth stops whenever he hears something whiz by or is touched by something as small as a blade of grass or butterfly. Hagar waves his huge blockhead around like a searchlight looking for his boggart (a being that takes on the form of his worst fears) OR he hunkers down in the path to protect his belly from the perceived attacker. I stumble and trip after him, safe in the knowledge that while it may not be the most relaxing way to traverse the woods, there are no snakes in my path. As Hagar thrashes his way along the trail, I find myself laughing at his irrational fears and forgetting my own. “You silly dog, it’s just a little fly.” A small voice whispers to me easy for you to laugh as it occurs to me how asinine I am stumbling along behind him. I couldn’t help but think of J. K. Rowling’s witty charm to tame boggarts—Riddikulus! Laughing at
our fears is a start to conquering them. While Hagar has a sense of humor, it isn’t developed to a fine enough degree that he laughs at what he fears. During moments of courage, he will even charge cows, ignoring my shouts that he shouldn’t, but never without the protection of a fence between him and the harmless cud-chewers. When they race off in a flurry of bovine frenzy, his hearing magically restored, he trots up with an equivalent of a chuckle in his gait. Like Hagar, there are some fears that our humor is just not developed enough to see the irony. That’s when his variation on the theme works well for humans. Put distance between you and what you fear - like a fence. Snakes, for example, are much less terrifying at the zoo behind glass. I can’t say I like them all that much more, but they are less of a frightful thing. Ticks—there’s always bug spray. Still, there is the dread of the uncer-
tain. For Hagar, it could be a measuring tape or a Mylar balloon. Last night a mysterious silver orb lay on the grass along the drive, gently swaying in the breeze. Hagar was keenly aware of that fact that it had never been there before. In a feat of his most daring-do, stealthily he approached this unknown object with a warning growl as if to say, “Don’t mess with me you, you strange thing.” Caught up by a puff of wind the balloon bucked forward. My less than intrepid friend jumped back as the silver blobs underbelly waved and proclaimed a garish happy birthday. With tail tucked, he slunk behind me. I picked up the string rendering the dread thing immediately safe and known. He trotted along not in the least bothered by the strange silver object as it floated behind me. When I tied it to the fence and left it immediately, it regained an object to fear status. How often do I find the unknown fearful? And when I think I know something, how often does my fear evaporate only to reemerge at the slightest change, wondering I still laughed at my pooch’s antics? You might think I am taking undue advantage of my buddy by laughing at his fears. While Hagar may worry his way through a walk in the woods, when he lies down to sleep all of that worry is a thing of the past. I, on the other hand, spend many a long night awake worrying about things that never happen. Who has the last laugh do you suppose?
You can’t always be there. But we can.
the forgotten kettle
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Take the first step. Call us at 434.979.4663 or visit HomeInstead.com/532 SEPTEMBER 2016
COMMUNITY
from in and around Keswick... Super LIDL a German discount supermarket chain with more than 10,000 locations in Europe, wants to open one of its first American stores in Charlottesville. Lidl announced last year that it would establish its U.S. headquarters in Arlington, build a distribution center in Spotsylvania County and plan to begin opening stores in America by 2018. The company is seeking potential store locations in Virginia and seven other East Coast states. In late August, the Timmons Group design firm submitted a plan to the Albemarle County Department of Community Development for a Lidl grocery store on an empty lot on Pantops at 1248 Richmond Road. On Tuesday, plans for a Richmond location were filed. Timmons Group project manager Craig Kotarski and Lidl US purchasing manager Matt Miller said that they could not comment on the plan.“We are actively pursuing sites in the [Charlottesville] area, and this is one we are looking at,” Lidl US spokesperson Will Harwood said in an email. Harwood said that the company had not set opening dates for any of its American stores. Lidl’s U.S. location criteria, as outlined on their website, require store sites to be positioned in established retail locations and large enough to accommodate a 36,000-square-foot standalone store with at least 150 parking spaces. A preferred site prototype places the store between a main road and a secondary road. A rendering in the Timmons Group’s application shows a 36,185-square-foot store building facing U.S. 250, close to the Pantops Shopping Center. Its parking lot also would be accessible from Route 20.The proposal notes that the store’s window wall and curved roof would resemble the BMW of Charlottesville dealership on the opposite side of U.S. 250.It also says that “every effort will be made” to preserve the vegetation on the perimeter of the site. Additional trees would be planted in the parking lot “to break up the size of the lot.”The Albemarle County Architectural Review Board is scheduled to review the application at its Oct. 3 meeting. Albemarle County’s Pantops Master Plan, adopted in 2008, includes the proposed Lidl store site in Pantops’ “core” area of greatest activity. The plan recommended that future development should “intensify use of the area with Urban Mixed Uses.”The site is zoned as a highway commercial area.“The whole area
BY KESWICK LIFE is supposed to have equal parts of residential and commercial use,” said Elaine Echols, the acting chief of planning for Albemarle County, referring to the larger area that includes the site. “In Albemarle County, recommended land-use designations and zoning do not always line up. But in this case, both the zoning and the Master Plan recommend commercial uses at this location,” Echols said.Will Norton, a University of Virginia student on the Pantops Community Advisory Committee, said that he saw no need for more grocery stores on Pantops.“Both the master plan and common sense call for redevelopment of existing built areas, not the extension of the strip-mall design that has so far characterized both Pantops and so much more of the county,” Norton said in an email. In a 2015 news release, Gov. Terry McAuliffe said that Lidl’s arrival in the state demonstrated “Virginia’s ability to attract companies from all over the globe.”
Rules Albemarle County planners are proposing new rules for future farm wineries, breweries, and distilleries. They heard from people on both sides of the debate Tuesday, September 13.To establish eligibility, these businesses would have be growing something on a minimum of five acres. Businesses would also be required to update the distance needed between tents, parking, port-o-johns, and the property line during parties or events. "Albemarle absolutely wants to encourage wineries breweries and distilleries the purpose of our rural area is to have agriculture in it. We just want to make sure when establishments are opening as farm wineries, farm breweries, farm distilleries, that there’s actually a farm there in order to have events," said Mandy Burbage, a senior planner with Albemarle County. An additional permit is also being recommended for events with more than 200 people and an updated curfew for loud music no later than 10 p.m. The commission is also asking that businesses notify their neighbors and provide an on-site contact when they plan to hold events.Several residents of the Whitehall District and the Free Union community expressed concern about safety on what can be narrow, rural roadways while
business owners say these regulations will limit the county's economic development and put a strain on their establishments. "I think that the whole concept of layering on these regulations, which may not be necessary at all, simply limits the county's economic development and I think that's particularly sad," said Charlotte Shelton, owner of Albemarle Ciderworks. The planning commission is recommending that all of the current wineries, breweries and distilleries in Albemarle County be grandfathered in on the new provisions, so they would not apply.
hensive Plan.The large undeveloped commercial property is a rarity in Albemarle, said listing agent John Pritzlaff, with commercial real estate firm Cushman and Wakefield Thalhimer.“It is a very rare opportunity to buy 21 acres in the development area,” he said. “If you can name and find me another 21 acres of land in the core of Charlottesville, I would be very proud of you.”In spite of the Pantops Master Plan’s goal for a park in the area, Elaine Echols, the county’s principal planner, said office space could be developed on the site by right, as long as the site plan fits within county rules. For Pritzlaff, the land designation is not an enormous barrier. Between the proximity to downtown, the rarity of similar parcels and the commercial zoning, the parcel retains its value.“The thing about the 21 acres, why it is valuable, is it is the last tract of land within 10 minutes of downtown that can easily be developed commercial,” he said.
Selling State Farm is selling a 21.45 acre parcel on Pantops at the intersection of South Pantops Drive and State Farm Blvd. In a move company officials said is nothing unusual, State Farm Insurance is selling 21.45 acres it owns on Pantops Mountain and vacating 41,000 square feet of office space in Peter Jefferson Place.The office space the company is leaving is separate from State Farm’s large operations center at the intersection of South Pantops Drive, Peter Jefferson Parkway and State Farm Boulevard. The smaller location is mostly empty, company spokesman Kip Diggs said. The employees who do work in that space will be moved to the larger building, he said. The land sale will not affect business at the company’s operations center, either, Diggs said. The land, a hilly 21 acres, sits across South Pantops Drive from the main State Farm building.“We will use three multifunctional hubs — in Atlanta, Dallas and Phoenix — operations centers throughout the country, including Charlottesville, and our corporate headquarters in Bloomington, Illinois, to serve our customers,” Diggs said in an email. “We continue to use a flexible real estate strategy so that we can make adjustments to respond to customers’ changing needs.”“As we review our facilities, our goal is to utilize existing offices and talent, with a goal of retaining skilled employees,” he said. “These decisions are balanced with the needs of our customers.”
As State Farm sheds space and land, Bank of America and Merrill Lynch are relocating to Peter Jefferson Place from downtown Charlottesville.“The lack of parking and the lack of space downtown and the central location at Peter Jefferson Place made it an attractive option,” Jones said.The move corresponds with recent plans by Bank of America nationwide to consolidate space, said company spokeswoman Jennifer Darwin.“This is in line with our efforts to consolidate our space,” she said. “We are trying to have all our teams in one place to better support our customers.” Across U.S. 250, Westminster-Canterbury of the Blue Ridge recently acquired 2 acres between its facility and 250 for $1.65 million. There are no immediate plans to develop the property, said Gary Selmeczi, CEO of the retirement community.“What we may consider using that parcel for is a welcome and marketing center,” Selmeczi said. “Mostly, we wanted some frontage, and in a way, we wanted to protect that entrance corridor.”
The land covers six parcels and has a direct view of downtown Charlottesville. Albemarle County records show the land is zoned for commercial office space, but about 15 acres of the parcel is designated for open parks in the county’s Compre-
18
KESWICK LIFE
BUSINESS INSIDER
Local Insurers Celebrate 125 Years ADAPTED BY KESWICK LIFE
ON SCREEN
29th Virginia Film Festival To Welcome Noted Documentarians, a Political Consultant and a Pundit 2016 VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL SET FOR NOVEMBER 3-6
Chuck Mason Jr. (left) and Bryan Hargett are continuing their families’ tradition with the Mason Insurance Agency. Photo: Peter Cihelka / THE FREE LANCE–STAR Mason Insurance turns 125 this year – The company’s history surrounds them daily—pictures of their ancestors who worked at the same company adorn the walls. A photo of Mason as a child hangs in his office. In it, there’s a telegram telling his mother that a desk had already been picked out for the youngest family member. Going through records, they dug up receipts showing what Mason’s grandfather, Barton Mason, accepted as payment instead of premiums during the Great Depression: hams, corn and chickens. Mason said the 125-year milestone means Mason Insurance is the oldest business in the town of Orange and Orange County, and one of the oldest family-run insurance agencies in Virginia. The business was founded in 1891 by V. R. Shackleford and Allen Warren. It was called Shackleford and Warren until Barton Mason, a traveling salesman, bought into the company in 1908. He bought out his partners in
the 1920s and renamed it Mason Insurance. Hargett’s father, Ben Hargett, bought into the business in 1969. Bryan Hargett joined the business in 1996. After graduating from college, Mason worked for a bank in Baltimore for a few years. Then in 1975, his father called.Harry Mason, then in his late 50s, said he needed another generation to work for the family business. Coming back meant getting involved, which Mason called an essential part of living in a small town.Both are active in Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. Mason also has been the mayor of Orange for seven years. Mason Insurance is looking ahead to the next generation, as well. Mason’s daughter, Whitney Mason Gammell, works there. Though Hargett’s children are both in college, he thinks they might find their way back to Orange, too.
Read KESWICK Lets you in on life in Keswick
LIFE
The Virginia Film Festival made two ma-
jor announcements at its annual Stakeholders Meeting & Reception, held recently at The Local in Charlottesville.The Virginia Film Festival is presented by the University of Virginia and the Office of the Provost and Vice Provost for the Arts. VFF Director and UVA Vice Provost for the Arts Jody Kielbasa announced that the Festival, set for November 3-6, will welcome award-winning documentarians Chris Hegedus and D. A. Pennebaker. The pair will present their highly-acclaimed 1993 film The War Room, which documented the inner workings of Bill Clinton’s improbable 1992 election. Noted CNN political consultant and CNN commentator Paul Begala, who played a key advisory role in that campaign and is featured in the film, will also be on hand for a discussion. In addition, Hegedus and Pennebaker will present their acclaimed film Unlocking the Cage, which follows animal rights lawyer Steven Wise and his legal team, the Nonhuman Rights Project, as they file the first lawsuits aimed at ineffective animal welfare laws in an effort to protect cognitively complex animals such as chimpanzees, whales, dolphins, and elephants from physical abuse. The film follows the team as it argues on behalf of four captive chimpanzees in New York State for limited personhood rights using writs of habeus corpus historically used to free humans from unlawful imprisonment.
ney animated classic Beauty and the Beast by welcoming Page O’Hara, the voice of Belle in the film, along with the film’s producer, Don Hahn. Beauty and the Beast remains the only animated film ever to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, and helped pave the way for what has become known as the “Disney Renaissance,” which changed the animated film landscape forever. Hahn played a key role in the renaissance, including producing The Lion King, which in 1994 set worldwide box office records for animated films and became the highest grossing traditionally animated film in history. O’Hara and Hahn will participate in a discussion following a special screening of Beauty and the Beast, and Hahn will also be on hand for a discussion following the critically-acclaimed 2009 documentary Waking Sleeping Beauty. The film, which Hahn narrates, chronicles the rise of Disney animation from 1984 to 1994. The Virginia Film Festival will announce its full 2016 program on Tuesday, September 27. Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, September 30. For more information, visit www.virginiafilmfestival.org. The festival is generously supported by the following Premiere Sponsors: The AV Company, Bank of America, Harvest Moon Catering, James Madison’s Montpelier, The Joseph & Robert Cornell Memorial Foundation, Virginia Film Office, and Violet Crown Charlottesville.
The VFF will also be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking Dis-
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SEPTEMBER 2016
ON EXHIBIT
Redouté to Warhol: Bunny Mellon’s Botanical Art
Spanning
SHOWCASE OF MASTERWORKS FROM THE OAK SPRING GARDEN LIBRARY
seven centuries, the exhibition will demonstrate the wide range and breadth of botanical works of art. Showcasing masterworks from one of the world’s great private libraries devoted to the plant world, Redouté to Warhol: Bunny Mellon’s Botanical Art will be on view in the Art Gallery of the LuEsther T. Mertz Library at The New York Botanical Garden from October 8, 2016, through February 12, 2017. This stunning exhibition comprises nearly 80 works, ranging from the 14th through the 20th centuries, from the Oak Spring Garden Library, which the late Rachel Lambert (“Bunny”) Mellon founded on her estate in Upperville, Virginia.
represented by three watercolors painted in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The time-spanning breadth of Mrs. Mellon’s collection will also be highlighted by a grouping of works by prominent artists of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Flowers of Poetry (ca. 1890) by Henri Rousseau (1844–1910) features humble violas, asters, and other common garden plants arranged in a simple still life. Two of Picasso’s still life prints, completed in Cannes in the late 1950s, depict floral arrangements as simplified, boldly colored shapes. Andy Warhol’s Vine Leaf Marinade— an illustrated “recipe” from Wild Raspberries (1959), the handmade satirical cookbook he designed Many Shown Publicly and illustrated with New for the First Time OctoYork interior decorator Suber 8, 2016–February 12, zie Frankfurt—provides a Photos: Left, Georg Dionysius Ehret (German, 1708–70)v[Magnolia grandiflora (South- more whimsical and styl2017. Among the featured ern Magnolia)], ca. 1737Bodycolor on vellum. Oak Spring Garden Library, Right: Pablo works—many never before ized view of plants. Finally, exhibited publicly—will Sophie Grandval (b. 1936) Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973) Pot of Flowers, 1958. Colored lithograph with crayon. Oak be rare masterpieces by rebegan her career as a textile Spring Garden Library nowned botanical artists designer but turned to intisuch as Jacques Le Moyne de Morgues (ca. 1533–88) turist and visionary collector, whose Oak Spring Gar- mate paintings of natural subjects, including that bane and Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759–1840) as well as 20th- den Library and Foundation continue to carry out her of gardeners in Dandelion (1990). Redouté to Warhol is century paintings by Pablo Picasso (1881–1973) and mission and interests. In the adjoining Art Gallery, rare co-curated by Dr. Lucia Tongiorgi Tomasi, one of the Andy Warhol (1928–87). Bunny Mellon, who died in illustrated manuscripts, works on paper, paintings, and world’s leading experts on herbals and botanical art 2014 at age 103, was an accomplished garden designer, threedimensional objects will make up the heart of Red- and author of two publications documenting the Oak legendary art collector, and noted philanthropist. outé to Warhol. Among the rare books that will be on Spring Garden Library collection; Susan Fraser, Vice display are extraordinarily ornate examples of books of President and Director of the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Among her many important gardening and landscap- hours, devotional texts popular in the medieval period, at The New York Botanical Garden; and Tony Willis, ing endeavors, she designed the White House Rose and La Clef des Champs (1586), a small pattern book Librarian of the Oak Spring Garden Library. A fully ilGarden during the administration of President John F. by Le Moyne of natural history subjects for artists and lustrated catalog will include an essay by Dr. Tomasi Kennedy. Over the course of decades, Mrs. Mellon as- craftspeople. Watercolors by French artist Nicolas Rob- about Mrs. Mellon’s singular vision as a collector as sembled a distinguished collection of botanical artwork ert (1614–85) showcase the artist’s scientific knowledge witnessed through their collaboration and friendship, and a library of more than 10,000 volumes on botanical and keen attention to botanical detail, which was likely a biographical essay by Mr. Willis, and an essay about subjects, reference resources that informed her profes- gained by painting the plants on the estate of Gaston the long relationship between the Oak Spring Garden sional pursuits as well as her personal interests in Oak d’Orléans, younger brother of Louis XIII. The exhibition Library and the Mertz Library by Ms. Fraser. A series of Spring’s greenhouses and gardens. “In partnership with will also feature the art and economics of “tulipoma- public programs is also planned during the exhibition. our close friends at The New York Botanical Garden, nia,” the craze for tulips that seized Holland in the 17th we have the pleasure of sharing the special qualities of century, with still life paintings by Johannes Baptista The mission of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation is to Mrs. Mellon’s world with a broader audience through van Fornenburgh (1585–ca.1649) and Daniel Seghers perpetuate and share the gift of Rachel Lambert Melthis exhibition,” said Sir Peter Crane, President of the (1590–1661) and watercolors by German painter Jacob lon, including her home, garden, estate, and the Oak Oak Spring Garden Foundation, which maintains the Marrel (1614–81) that were made for tulip bulb catalogs. Spring Garden Library, which comprises a celebrated Oak Spring Garden Library and promotes scholarship collection of rare books, manuscripts, works of art, and and public engagement in the fields of botany, horti- A central gallery wall in Redouté to Warhol will pres- other related artifacts. The Foundation is dedicated to culture, and landscape design. “We are deeply grateful ent a grid of 17 paintings on copper by Dutch artist Jan facilitating scholarship and public engagement on the for this opportunity and hope that all who visit Red- van Kessel (1626–79). Arranged to emulate a cabinet of history and future of plants, including the culture of outé to Warhol will enjoy this special glimpse into Mrs. curiosities, these highly detailed works depict plants, gardens and landscapes and the importance of plants Mellon’s unique domain.” An Extraordinary Exhibition insects, arachnids, mollusks, and reptiles. 3 Georg Dio- for human well-being. That Explores the Many Aspects of Botanical Works of nysius Ehret (1708–70), one of the greatest masters of Art Redouté to Warhol will reveal the wide range and botanical art, worked for preeminent botanists, includbreadth of art that has been inspired by the beauty of ing Carl Linnaeus, which contributed to his superior the plant world through the centuries. knowledge of plant form, as shown in his depictions of magnolias and pitcher plants included in the exhiAn introduction in the rotunda of the Mertz Library bition. Redouté, who served as a royal court artist for will explore Mrs. Mellon’s legacy as a skilled horticulMarie-Antoinette and later for Empress Josephine, is
20
KESWICK LIFE
ON EXHIBIT
For the Love of Art – Father, Son Share Business Savvy ADAPTED BY KESWICK LIFE
Nestled among the beautifully-preserved
John and Alex are hoping to change.“We engage visitors in discussions about the selections they see and encourage them to explore the unique world events occurring during that time that may have influenced the artist,” John said. “Breathing in the essence of our history and culture is one reason why art should be owned and personally enjoyed, not merely visited in a museum.”
historic district in downtown Charlottesville is a unique gallery brimming with notable art and sculptures from around the world.
But perhaps the most unique aspect of this business is the father-son duo that operates Graves International Art Gallery on Jefferson Street. “We're a good team because my dad is experienced in business and fine art collecting, and I am experienced in social media and online marketing,” said Alex Graves. “I am taking what my dad has built and am leveraging technology to bring the gallery into the virtual, online world of the 21st Century.” Amidst the rising use and dependency on technology, art is more relevant today for that very reason – to remind ourselves of the fragile, human qualities exhibited therein, said John Graves, who prefers having face-to-face discussions about the gallery’s collections. “Alex has opened my eyes to a new world where I am learning to transition time and attention to this expanding media and marketplace,” John said. “While I still enjoy the personal contact and interaction with real human beings in a physical gallery environment and always will, more and more trade is going the way of the Internet.”Alex, who joined his father in 2011, was raised in a family surrounded by art and said he always knew one day he work alongside his father.“Although I’m not an artist, I like the idea of carrying on the legacy of a family business and have always entertained the idea of being an entrepreneur,” Alex said. “As a business owner,
the future is in your own hands, and if you have that drive and truly love what you do, you cannot fail.” The father-son team agrees on most things including that determination, devotion and grit is what it takes to operate a business or be an artist. “If you’re an artist, don’t get a day job – jump in the deep end and learn how to swim,” John said. “You have to make those lifealtering decisions knowing that being an artist will be demanding if it’s going to be legendary.” Running a gallery or any type of industry requires astute business acumen of knowing what and when to buy, what the price-point is for each piece to make
it affordable, and how to display various collections, Alex said. “To be successful you can't just like looking at pretty pictures all day – you’re in business to earn a living,” Alex said. “At the same time we price our selections so that people can afford to start their own collections.” Making art affordable is this duo’s mission, especially since the 1950s post-war era catapulted art from appreciation to the world of commodity traded like stock and sold to exclusive markets like big auction houses, the wealthy, or upheld by museums. In effect this shift distanced the general public’s exposure and affordability of fine art – a chasm
Art is as much about viewing beautiful, sometimes disturbing works as it is having conversations about those works and life in general - all set the stage for discovery and discourse, John said. “Discussion broadens our knowledge base, expands our experiences and liberates us of petty and visceral divides. The goal is to never revisit or repeat these actions that scar the tapestry of our Nation’s history such as slavery, war, social injustice or prejudice but rather using art to gain a deeper understanding of another person’s view,” John said. “Glimpses of these memories are recorded in a brushstroke, seen in an etching or captured in a sculpture from that moment in time, perhaps, serving as the soothing balm to view the world in a softer, more collaborative way.” Graves International Art Gallery was originally founded as The Collectors Exchange in 1978 in Jacksonville, Florida. Within sixteen years the gallery grew to be the largest in North Florida, specializing in fine art from antique to modern. In 1994, Graves relocated his gallery operations to historic Central Virginia where he continues to the present day.
Equus IV – Morin Gallery at The Arts Center In Orange On Thursday, October 6, 5-7pm, the public is invited to the opening of EQUUS IV, art on the theme of horses and the people who love them, in the Morin Gallery at The Arts Center In Orange. Juried by artist Debby Thomas, the exhibit will run through November 30 and includes paintings, photos, drawings, and leather work by the following artists: Wilma Bradner, Sharon Lynn Campbell, Cathy Choyce, Daisy Collins, John Corrao, J Douglas, Deb Elaine, Judith Ely, Cabell Gorman, Clinton Helms, Lindsey Henry, Elaine Hurst, Carol Iglesias, Kathy Kuhlman, Sue Linthicum, Eleszabeth McNeel, Linda Nedinsky, Lee Nixon, Jeff Poole,
Janie Shrader, Martha Strawther, Eddie Thiel, Julia Travers and Willa Frayser.
National Bank and the Light Well Restaurant on Main Street in Orange.
Equestrian sculpture by artists Herbert Hazeltine and William Turner, from the collection of Phil & Susie Audibert, will also be on display. In addition, Marion Maggiolo’s collection of 20th-century horsethemed covers from The New Yorker magazine will be shown. The gallery will also unveil this year’s Montpelier Hunt Race poster art by Sam Robinson, which will be shown in the gallery throughout October.
The Arts Center in Orange is located at 129 East Main Street, Orange, VA, Hours: 10-5, Mon-Sat, ph: 540-672-7311, email: theartsorange@aol.com, website: www.artscenterinorange.com. Photo to the left: “Ballerina Kisses” Cathy Choyce
Concurrent satellite exhibits by equestrian artists Debby Thomas and Martha Strawther will be on display at Virginia
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SEPTEMBER 2016
BOOKWORM
Cozy Up with a Spooky Tale The heat of the summer is finally break-
ing and fall is due to arrive soon, and with it comes darkening days…a perfect accompaniment to some spooky tales. Just in time for Halloween!
Catriona McPherson has written a very eerie story that takes place at what was once a school as is now a care facility: Eden. The Child Garden has a very gothic and haunted setting, Eden holds secrets that haunt all the children who used to attend the former school. Gloria Harkness visits Eden regularly because her son resides there, as does Miss Drumm, the owner of Rough House where Gloria now lives. Every evening Gloria makes the trek from Rough House to Eden to read to her son, who no longer responds to any stimulus. One evening a childhood friend shows up with a strange tale of being stalked by a former classmate from Eden. When they head out in the dark to meet the stalker they find her dead and this leads to a journey back in time to unravel the mystery of the school. One by one the former students of Eden
BY SUZANNE NASH
are being killed and Gloria must protect all those she loves from a threat from the past.
The Uninvited by Cat Winters takes place in 1918. Ivy Rowan has just recovered from the great influenza epidemic and has begun to have “the gift” (or perhaps it’s a curse) of “sight”. She see people who have died prior to someone close to her passing. When her brother and father kill a young German in retaliation for the death of Ivy’s brother, Billy, in the Great War, she is devastated. Ivy becomes involved with the young German’s brother, Daniel Schendel. Her involvement with him is seen with suspicion by the townsfolk, who begin to think she is colluding with the enemy. This is a book of mystery and uninvited guests. Flu and war have created panic and unrest. Jazz, passion and freedom abound because each day could be the last and it sets the stage for a compelling novel. I love a book where I cannot see the
twists and turns coming and The Children’s Home definitely delivers. This is a spooky fairy tale built around the idea of loneliness. Morgan Fletcher is a wealthy man living as a hermit due to his disfigurement. He has two companions, Engel, the housekeeper and Dr. Crane, the town physician. The story dissolves slowly into a surreal portrait of a man trying to find himself. He is alone until children begin to show up and populate his house. Not only is this story sure to
give you chills but it is a commentary on exploitation and capitalism. Chasing the Devil’s Tale takes place in 1907 New Orleans. Using a historical background with characters based on historical figures, Author David Fulmer has created a tale of intrigue and mystery. Storyville is the red light district of New Orleans where alcohol, drugs and women are available at every turn. This area is run by Tom Anderson, the acknowledged King of Storyville who keeps a very talented Creole detective, Valentin St. Cyr on his payroll. St Cyr
At the event, Festival director Jane Kulow confirmed the participation of seven headliners for 2017: Neurobiologist Stuart Firestein, author of "Failure: Why Science Is So Successful", will speak at the Leadership Breakfast on Wednesday, March 22; Novelist Christina Baker Kline, author of "Orphan Train" and the forthcoming "A Piece of the World" (February 2017), will speak at the Festival Luncheon on Thursday, March 23;
A program of Virginia Foundation for the Humani-
ties (VFH), the 23rd annual Virginia Festival of the Book will be held March 22-26, 2017, at various locations in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Announced recently at a VFH event, the 2017 Festival will feature headline events addressing Andrew Wyeth’s influence, real and imagined; family ties, to community and to murder; a realistic look at the state of the American economy, from past influencers to necessary changes; how failure influences science; diner food, traditional to modern; and odes to poets, ancient and contemporary.
is following a series of grisly murders very closely. One of the things I enjoyed most about this mystery is the connection to the history of New Orleans. Lulu White ( a notorious madam), E.J. Bellocq ( A photographer of fallen women), Jelly Roll Morton (a piano player) and Buddy Boldon (a jazz musician) all populate this story and are worth exploring further after you close this book. Jazz was seen as the Devil’s music and as murders start to take an upswing in Storyville, fingers start pointing toward Buddy Bolden, the famous Jazz musician. As things progress it begins to look looks like the Devil has taken his due from Billy, causing him to lose his mind.
Detective fiction writer Laura Lippman, author of the Tess Monaghan series and "Wilde Lake", will speak at the Crime Wave Brunch on Saturday, March 25; Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz, author of "The Great Divide and The Price of Inequality", will headline a three-part series on economic inequality, to be held as part of the Festival; James Beard Award-winning chef Ashley Christensen, author of "Poole’s: Recipes and Stories from a Modern Diner", will speak and lead a cooking demonstration during the Festival; and
So pull up a chair and get ready to experience the chills that come with the fall and creepy tales. Happy Halloween.
Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander, author of "The Crossover", and Caldecott winner Ekua Holmes, illustrator of "Voice of Freedom", will give presentations to local students in addition to a public program about their forthcoming collaboration, "Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets" (March 2017). In making the announcements, Kulow said, “These authors make up a very short list of all who will come to Charlottesville next March, yet they are representative of the breadth of programs we present in every festival, offering a fascinating take on science, new fiction from a major bestselling author, beautifully illustrated poetry for children, a wonderful new cookbook for foodies, one of our premier crime writers, and a Nobel Laureate in economics. We’re off to a great start!” Tickets for select events go on sale at VaBook.org on Thursday, September 15, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. Additional authors and events will be announced as they are confirmed.
22
KESWICK LIFE
OBITUARY
from in and around Keswick... Eleanor L. Barnes
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Charlottesville lost a bright light last Sunday, September 18, 2016. Eleanor L. (Muffin) Barnes succumbed to glioblastoma after a steep decline that was blessedly short. Muffin was diagnosed less than a year ago, after which she had her own year of magical living, supported by her legions of friends and caregivers. She treasured her friendships and she knew no strangers. Muffin always known for living life to the fullest - had an overflowing bucket list. She did everything in her power to empty her bucket in her time remaining. This included travels to Cuba and Key West, fishing in Montana, a reunion with high school friends and several trips to the beach. Muffin loved to travel and visited over 25 countries during her lifetime and every continent except Antarctica. She would leave at the drop of a hat to go somewhere new. Muffin was a voracious reader and belonged to three book clubs. She loved art, museums, the theater and moviesof all eras. Muffin was infinitely curious, and always in search of the next adventure. Muffin attended Belfield School, Gunston Hall School, Mt. Vernon Jr. College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She worked for the Commissioner of Accounts for Albemarle Countyfor 38 years Muffin fell in love with horses ear-
ly on. In addition to being a wonderful rider, she had the innate talent of being able to teach others how to be better riders. She taught generations of children and their children, all of whom grew up learning how to ride, show and fox hunt. She showed them that it is possible to be both demanding and unconditionally loving at the same time. Muffin started her career with Grover Vandevender and continued from there to Darby's Folly with mentor Gloria Fennell. Both then moved to Millington Stables. She was a lifelong member of Farmington Hunt Club. Muffin was so appreciative of the positive attitude and care she received from everyone she met at the UVA Emily Couric Cancer Center. Thank you to her doctors, Kate Schwarz and David Schiff and everyone that works with them. In addition a special thank you to longtime friend, Dr. Robert Powers, who helped her navigate the medical maze over the past year. The family is also thankful for the care and attention given by Jessica Walker and Shelley Stewart. Muffin was preceded in death by her father, Bennett H. Barnes Jr.; and two brothers, Bennett H. Barnes, III and Alexander G. Barnes. She is survived by her mother, Gene B. Barnes of Charlottesville, Virginia. As per Muffin's request a private family service is planned. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 14, 2016,
at 5 p.m. at Millington Stable/The Farm, 2040 Millington Stable Lane, Free Union, Va .In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, , Camp Holiday Trails, or the Arthritis Foundation of Virginia. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hillandwood.com.
James Douglas Vere Nicoll James Douglas Vere Nicoll died at his home, Willow Marsh, Locust Dale, Virginia, on Thursday, September 15, 2016, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born in Charlottesville on Thanksgiving Day in 1955, Jamie was the son of the revered local orthopedic surgeon Douglas Vere Nicoll. Jamie attended Middlesex School in Massachusetts and Pitzer College in California. After a few years in the business world of New York City, Jamie returned to his home in Virginia, where he and his devoted wife, Rachel started Summerfield Farm Products, Ltd., a provisioner of high-end meat cuts to renowned chefs across the United States. From a small log cabin in Free Union to an expansive retail shop and processing plant in Culpeper, Jamie was at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement. Jamie earned a reputation as the ultimate authority on meats and charcuterie, and was sought after as a celebrity guest chef
FootHill Farm
for important gourmet gatherings and celebrations across the country. Anyone who ever experienced one of Jamie's meals appreciated his culinary expertise and creativity. From veal and blueberry sausages to smoked salmon to roasting a pig on the spit to flamboyantly eating the eyeballs, Jamie's passion for food and life was contagious. His raucous laughter filled the room and will stay with those who knew and loved him always. In his later years, Jamie returned to his childhood love of horses. From playing polo and training polo ponies to rekindling his love affair with a four-in-hand, Jamie made sure that horses once again became an integral part of his life. In his last few months, his greatest delight was having his brother Roderick and nieces and nephew drive a carriage with him on the farm, something he regularly enjoyed with his wife, Rachel and daughters, Emily and Hannah. His enthusiasm has encouraged the family to continue carriaging as a part of their connection to the land and their heritage. To those of us who loved and admired Jamie's passion for life, courage and generosity of spirit, a light has dimmed. The family will hold a private remembrance at Willow Marsh in October. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Equus Foundation,equusfoundation.org.
V
irginia
We are pleased to offer Foothill Farm 3 miles NE of the City. Foothill Farm enjoys a tranquil setting with an extraor
dinary Blue Ridge panorama. The manor was designed by Bill
Atwood, AIA, and built in 1980 of cedar siding capped with a standing seam metal roof. Mr. Atwood successfully captured the broad and beautiful Blue Ridge views from every principal room. The fine details include a first floor master suite, tall ceilings, oak floors and generous scale. A loft with full bath is available for guests and/or staff. A pool is situated near the manor as well as a two car detached garage. A farm manager’s residence (also a great rental) completes the improvements. The farm is 215 acres of pasture and forest rising to the crest of the Southwest Mountains. $2,750,000
SAMUELS Jos. T.
Over 100 Years Of Virginia Real Estate Service Charlottesville u (434) 981-3322 u www.jtsamuels.com
23
SEPTEMBER 2016
PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET
PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET
Fairway Drive
Campbell Road
Foothill Farm
A relentlessly charming, c. 1800 residence,
Three miles northeast of the City, Foothill
equestrian improvements set in total Aprivacy relentlessly charming, c.on 1800 residence, & tranquility 90+/gently remarkable guest home & complete rolling acres in Keswick, Va, 15-20 mins equestrian improvements in total& to Charlottesville. Recently set expanded privacy & tranquility on 90+/modernized so that the floor plan gently (family rolling acres to in lrg, Keswick, 15-20 mins room next eat-inVa, kitchen, true to Charlottesville. Recently expanded & master suite) systems & finishes provide modernized so that the floor plan (family luxurious modern living w/in a characterroom nextc.toshell. lrg, In eat-in kitchen, true rich, 18th addition to the 3-4 master suite) systems & finishes provide bedroom main house & 1-2 bedroom luxurious modern living a characterguest cottage, there isw/in a storage barn, rich, 18th c. shell. In addition tomultiple the 3-4 chicken coop, center aisle barn & bedroom house 1-2 bedroom paddocks,main pastures w/ & run-in sheds. All guest cottage, there is a storage barn, improvements in excellent condition. chicken coop, centerrights aisle barn & multiple Multiple division + neighboring paddocks, w/ run-in sheds. All farms in pastures easement = conservation improvements in excellent condition. easement candidate. Addtn'l acreage Multiple available division rights + neighboring farms in easement = conservation easement For furthercandidate. informationAddtn'l contact acreage available Loring Woodriff 434.466.2992
extraordinary Blue Ridge panorama. The Three northeastby ofBill theAtwood, City, Foothill manormiles was designed AIA, Farm enjoys a tranquil setting an and built in 1980 of cedar sidingwith capped extraordinary Blue Ridge panorama. The with a standing seam roof. Mr. Atwood manor was designed by Billthe Atwood, successfully captured broadAIA, and and built in 1980 of cedar siding capped beautiful Blue Ridge views from every with a standing seam roof. Mr. include Atwooda principal room. The fine details successfully captured the broad first floor master suite, tall ceilings,and oak beautiful Ridgescale. views from every floors andBlue generous A loft with full principal room. The details include bath is available for fine guests and/or staff. aA first masternear suite, ceilings, oak poolfloor is situated thetall manor as well as floors and generous scale. A loft with full a two car detached garage. A farm bath is available for guests A manager's residence (alsoand/or a greatstaff. rental) pool is situated near the manor as well as completes the improvements. The farm is a215 two carofdetached garage. farm acres pasture and forest A rising to manager's residence (also a great rental) the crest of the Southwest Mountains. completes the improvements. The farm is 215 acres of pasture and forest rising to the crest of the Southwest Mountains. For further information contact : Joe Samuels 434.981-3322
miles from Charlottesville. The 1850 Located the Somerset area of Orange, manor inhome has had numerous just 2.5 miles from Gordonsville 22 improvementscompleted by the and present miles from Charlottesville. The 1850 owners, using only the finest materials manor home had living numerous including a new,has paneled room improvementscompleted by the present (20x34), country kitchen and laundry/ owners, using only materials mudroom. Also in the the finest main house are including a new, paneled living room four bedrooms, dining room, breakfast (20x34), country kitchen laundry/ room, study, original livingand room, library mudroom. Also in the main house areis and two galleries. The 170 acre estate four bedrooms, dining room, breakfast further enhanced by a four bedroom room, study, original living room, library guesthouse, three bedroom tenanthouse, and two galleries. The 170 acre estate is two new garage/workshops, smokehouse, further enhanced by a four bedroom swimming pool formal gardens, 3-stall guesthouse, three bedroom tenanthouse, stable two new garage/workshops, smokehouse, swimming pool formal gardens, 3-stall stable
For further information contact Loring Woodriff 434.466.2992
For further information contact : Joe Samuels 434.981-3322
For further information contact : Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
For further information contact : Frank Hardy 434.296-0134
$1,995,000
$2,750,000
$2,320,000
$4,395,000
Barnfield Drive
Gordonsville Road
Walnut Hills
Stony Point Road
Walnut Hills is an ideal Georgian manor
Circa
Aerie
Located in the Somerset area of Orange, Perfectly located, this fully furnished, Campbell Road Fairway Drive remarkable guest home & complete Foothill Aerie Farm enjoys aFarm tranquil setting with an just 2.5 miles from Gordonsville and 22 turn-key home truly is unique in today's
$1,995,000
$2,750,000
Long after other homes have crumbled, the
For further information contact : Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
$2,320,000
market place. Furnishings include the Perfectly located, this fully furnished, furniture, paintings, mirrors and turn-key home truly is unique tapestries. The home is on in a today's private market place. the waterfront lotFurnishings overlookinginclude Broadmoor furniture, mirrors Lake and thepaintings, new Pete Dye designedand golf tapestries. The home is on a private course ("Full Cry"). Enjoy breathtaking waterfront lot surrounding overlooking Broadmoor views of the golf course, Lake and the new PeteRidge Dye designed golf woodlands and Blue Mountains in course ("Full Cry"). Enjoy breathtaking the distance. This low maintenance views of the surrounding country home is relaxinggolf as course, well as woodlands and Blue Ridge Mountains in perfect for entertaining with a beautiful the distance. This low maintenance billiard room, home theatre and outdoor country homeofisthe relaxing as well as kitchen. State art security system, perfect for entertaining with a beautiful whole house audio and Lutron lighting billiard room,Five home theatreand andair outdoor throughout. heating zones. kitchen. State of the art security system, Exceptionally well crafted with the finest whole house audio and Lutron lighting of materials. throughout. Five heating and air zones. Exceptionally well crafted with the finest of materials. For further information contact : Frank Hardy 434.296-0134
$4,395,000
1732
Colonial
farmhouse
Family Land Trust first time available to stone walls of ARCOURT Barnfield Drive will remain-a Gordonsville Road home built in Hills 1882 by Governor James L. Stony exquisitelyPoint restored to facilitate modern Market in over 60yrs.Road Perk Test, Soil Walnut testament to the quarried natural stone Long after other homes have crumbled, and superb quality construction usedthe to stone walls of ARCOURT will remain-a create this one of a kind estate. Spacious testament to the custom quarriedresidence natural stone French-inspired on 22 and superb quality construction used to private acres in Keswick Hunt Country, create this one of afor kind estate. Spacious completely fenced horses, 3-stall stable, French-inspired custom residence on 22 guest quarters, with shop/garage private acres Interior in Keswick Hunt Country, underneath. of residence features completely fenced for horses, stable, an open floor plan, with large3-stall rooms, high guest quarters, with shop/garage ceilings, tall windows, and heated stone underneath. of residence features floors. ThereInterior is a main-level master suite, an open bedroom floor plan,orwith large rooms, second study on the first high floor, ceilings, tall windows, and stone two more bedrooms and twoheated baths on the floors. There is aBeautiful main-level master suite, second level. mountain and second bedroom studyhome on the&first floor, pastoral views or from covered two more bedrooms and two baths on the veranda with stone fireplace. second level. Beautiful mountain and For further information contact pastoral views 434.295.1131 from home & covered Jim Faulconer veranda with stone fireplace. For further information contact Jim Faulconer 434.295.1131 20.
$2,595,000
Reports are Complete and Dominion Family Trust available to Power Land brought to first fronttime of Parcel. Along Market in over 60yrs. Perk Test, Soil Scenic Byway with expansive views of Reports areMt Complete and Dominion Southwest Range. Mountain Stream Power brought to front of Parcel. Along traverses Property and feeds into Happy Scenic Byway with expansive views of Creek. 60% open, rolling fields, 40% Southwest Mt Range. Mountain Stream mature woods. Elevations provide traverses and Property feeds into has Happy excellentProperty Homesites. one Creek. 60% open, rolling fields, 40% development right and size not greater mature woods. provide than 6.2acs; main Elevations parcel 46.72 acs. Land excellent Homesites. Property has one maintained,seeded & fertilized; consists of development right Davidsonsoil. and size not greater highly desirable VDOT than 6.2acs; main parcel 46.72 acs.Survey Land entrance approved & installed. maintained,seeded & fertilized; consists of 2008. Scenic 14mi drive to C'ville, 3 mi into highly desirable Davidsonsoil. Gordonsville. Aerial and Ground VDOT Photos. entrance approved & installed. Survey . 2008. Scenic 14mi drive tocontact C'ville, :3 mi into For further information Gordonsville. Aerial and Ground Photos. Duke and Sharon Merrick 434-951-5160 . For further information contact : Duke and Sharon Merrick 434-951-5160
$ 449,820
Kemper in Orange County. The farm has Walnut is an idealmostly Georgian manor a total Hills of 373 acres, open with home built in 1882 by Governor James excellent soil types and three miles L. of Kemper in on Orange farm and has frontage the County. RapidanThe River, aincredible total of 373 acres, mostly openviews. with Blue Ridge Mountain excellent soil types and three miles of The 6000 sq. ft. brick home is constructed frontage on the Rapidan River, and extremely well and exudes a grand style incredible Ridge Mountain views. that only aBlue period house can.Iimpressive The 6000 sq. ft. brick home is constructed details include a fully paneled library, extremely wellformal and exudes grand seven style living room, dininga room, that only a period house can.Iimpressive bedrooms, 5.5 baths and nine fireplaces. details includeona the fully paneled library, Also included property is an earlier living room, formal dining room, seven circa 1855 brick home, which is ideally bedrooms, baths and nine fireplaces. suited as a 5.5 guest house. Also included on the property is an earlier circa 1855 brick home, which is ideally suited as a guest house. contact : For further information Peter Wiley 434.422.2090
For further information contact : Peter Wiley 434.422.2090
$4,750,000
convenience with a perfect blend of Circa 1732 Colonial farmhouse history and charm. Enjoy private country exquisitely restored to facilitate modern living on over 30 acres with rolling treeconvenience a perfect blend of shaded lawns with and well-watered pastures history and charm. Enjoy private country minutes to historic downtown. Formal living overdining, 30 acresgourmet with rolling treelivingonand kitchen, shaded lawns and well-watered pastures family room, 5 fireplaces, beautiful crown minutes downtown. Formal moldingto historic and hardwood floors living and dining, gourmet kitchen, throughout. Library with fireplace adjoins family room, 5suite fireplaces, beautiful crown the Master with 10' ceiling, two molding and hardwood floors bathrooms and separate dressing room. throughout. Library with fireplace adjoins Upstairs, three bedrooms with two full the Master suite with 10' ceiling, two baths. Dependencies include oval pool, bathrooms and separate dressing screened dining pavilion with room. stone Upstairs, three bedrooms with two barn full fireplace, 3 bedroom guest cottage, baths. Dependencies include oval pool, and shed. screened dining pavilion with stone For further information contact : barn fireplace, 3 bedroom guest cottage, Hunter Palmer 434.422.2090 and shed.
$3,200,000
For further information contact : KESWICK LIFE Hunter Palmer 434.422.2090
24 KESWICK LIFE $4,750,000 $2,595,000 $3,200,000 $ 449,820 KESWICK LIFE
20.
O FEATURED PROPERTY
“D
FEATURED PROPERTY
Ch
Kenwalt Farm, Somerset, Virginia
Fea at t
Offered for the first time in over 75 years. Kenwalt Farm is a productive working farm of 722 acres in the Somerset area of Madison County, near James Madison's Montpelier. Compelling views of rolling country, water, andmountains contribute to this remarkable property's character and beauty. The land is divided between deep pasture and cultivation, including more than 100 acres of prime bottom land where the Rapidan River runs along the entire mile-plus southern boundary. There are approximately 200 acres of marketable timber. Improvements include well-maintained agricultural buildings, a restorable 1900's farmhouse, a tenant house, and miles of livestock fencing. With seven tax map parcels and three access points, Kenwalt Farm is an outstanding candidate for a conservation easement.
Contact Julia Parker Lyman, Associate Broker Jos. T. Samuels, Inc.(540) 748-1497
T A good day at work inspires. A great community is full of inspiration. Innisfree takes special care to create a therapeutic work environment for its coworkers that builds a strong sense of community and enhances each person’s unique skills. When Innisfree needed more space for additional weavers, CACF helped expand the weaving studio. Now, coworkers, like Mark, who have skills that can transform spools of yarn into beautiful placemats, can enjoy working with friends and can share their carefully crafted products with our community. Our passion is to support the community.
There’s no end to what we can do together.
www.cacfonline.org
$5,400,000.
Need farm insurance ?
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25 22. 22.
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SEPTEMBER 2016 APRIL 2015
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LOOKING BACK 5 YEARS
September 2011 – Fires Banned in University of Virginia Lawn Fireplaces BY KESWICK LIFE
Student
residents of the University of Virginia’s historic Academical Village will likely find their rooms a little less cozy this winter, after University safety officials prohibited them from having fires in their fireplaces. Cracks have been found in the many flues and chimneysin the student rooms at the center of the University, according to Michael B. Merriam, associate director of maintenance for Facilities Management. These openings could allow a chimney fire to quickly spread into the roofs over the rooms along the Lawn and the Ranges, where there are no firebreaks. While the rooms are equipped with fire and smoke detectors, there is no fire suppression system. The University is weighing whether to permanently end the use of the fireplaces or to repair the flues and chimneys and install fire suppression equipment, he said. U.Va. President Teresa A. Sullivan is seeking input from Lawn and Range residents about how important the fireplaces are before making a decision, while Facilities Management is seeking repair estimates, Merriam said. Fires in the Lawn
and Range rooms have remained part of the University tradition, even though central heat was added in the early 20th century. “It is a long-established custom to have a fire in the fireplace,” said Alexander “Sandy” Gilliam, University historian and a former Lawn resident. “In the early days it started when the rooms were heated by fireplaces. In ‘Corks & Curls,’ the student yearbook, there were several drawings of students reading by the fireplace, and there are many references to Edgar Allan Poe, who lived on the Range, breaking up his furniture and burning it in his fireplace.” “Though with the installation of radiators over the years the fireplaces are no longer necessary for heat, they remain an integral part of the student experience of living in the Academical Village,” Swanson said. “This year’s residents are naturally disappointed at the news that the fireplaces will not be useable, at least at first, but seem to be determined to channel that disappointment in productive ways.” The chimney flues on the Lawn and Range are made of either stainless steel or a cement mixture, according to Merriam, but the last major work on the
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chimneys was done in the early 1990s. He said the cement mixture flues are cracked, while the stainless steel ones are corroding from the creosote produced by fires. The chimneys’ deteriorating condition was first discovered while crews worked on the gabled roofs over the student rooms between Pavilions VII and Pavilion IX. “An inspection of the chimneys found damage in the flues as well as some serious damage to the bricks on the chimneys,” said Joseph Lahendro, historic preservation architect with Facilities Management. “In some chimneys, the cracks in the brick lined up with the cracks in the sleeves.” He said inspections of some rooms found that fireplace dampers did not fit securely and some rooms had smoke stains on the mantelpiece, indicating the fireplace was not properly drawing smoke up the chimney. Lahrendro and Merriam said repairing the chimneys while rooms were occupied would be very disruptive to the residents. The rooms would have to be closed up to keep the dust from escaping, the roofs above the rooms must be removed to allow access to the chimneys, and the rooms must be repaired in groups. “And that says nothing about a
fire suppression system,” Merriam said. “We are finishing an engineering study we have been doing on that. We don’t know how expensive that would be and where the water lines would run.” Lahendro estimated it would take about three days to repair each chimney, plus additional time to allow the cement mixture to cure and harden. While the Academical Village’s student residents have been allowed to have fires – after training – their faculty neighbors in the pavilions have been barred from burning for about 20 years. Lahendro said the flues in the student rooms are much straighter and easier to clean than the chimneys in the pavilions, which are more complicated and take more circuitous routes.
Car Vault Gordonsville Central & Secure, Devilishy Smart, Achingly Economical
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Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:30-7:30, Sun. 12:30-5:30. 1804 Hydraulic Road • Follow us on Facebook, Call for more information: 434.296.1727 or email us at www.wineinc@aol.com
We offer short and long term car storage for vehicles of all ages and types with no restrictions on access and no minimum storage periods. From classic cars to modern and super cars, we will take care of your vehicle as if it were our own. We also store hard tops for convertible cars, promotional vehicles and motorcycles. Call 434-249-8900 to discuss your needs today.
26
KESWICK LIFE
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Specializing in... grass cutting, weedeating, Specializing in.. hedge trimming, mulching, S & LANDSCAPING leaf blowing and removal, small cutting, grasstree cutting, trimming and cleanup, weedeating, gutter cleaning, hedge trimming, porch power washing
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434.466.6939 Gallop through www.sheilacampmotley.com mulching, Call Ralph Morony 434.981.8733 (TREE) leaf blowing & (434) 956-5407 In this issue instantshadeva@gmail.com Glenmore removal, small tree Gallop through Keswick Vineyard’s cutting, trimming & cleanup, In this issue Glenmore New Winemaker gutter cleaning, porch power washing LIFE Gallop through Keswick Vineyard’s Lifestyles in Keswick and its’ environs - September 2016 and In this issue Glenmore New Winemaker GET A LIFE! Saturdays in the Garden call Keswick Vineyard’s and T S H434-956-5407 InstaShade AN New GO FIRST CLASS Saturdays in Winemaker the Garden and 4 Saturdays in the Garden
2
KESWICKthe Gates beyond beyond the Gates beyond the Gates
Every month we bring you the true Keswick Life, from the scoop of a party and horsey happenings to practical advice on making the most of your garden, preserving Keswick land and updates from the surrounding environs! But don’t take our word for it - subscribe and discover, Keswick Life!
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Don’t forget when you are sending in your Keswick Life subscription to “Go First Class”. Yes, for just $45 a year you can receive your monthly issue of Keswick Life in a cellophane envelope with First Class postage sure to make its’ arrival in a timely manner so that you get your news “hot off the press”. Visit www.keswicklife.com!
SEPTEMBER 2014
SEPTEMBER 2014
Living in Virginia’s Horse Country JU
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MONTEBELLO ROAD ~ An elegantly proportioned, custom-built home that melds new quality construction with grand spaces and the architectural detail of a historic residence. Reclaimed materials, exceptional millwork, mahogany doors and an airy, light-filled floor plan set this property apart. The house sits on a private knoll overlooking some of the most beautiful land in Orange County. This property offers zero road noise yet is only 5 minutes from historic Orange and Woodberry Forest. The land is mostly open with a large paddock and run-in shed, a beautiful garden and views of the Blue Ridge from the front porch. MLS# 552286 $895,000
MAYHURST ~ An impressive Victorian Italianate manor house built by President James Madison’s great nephew in 1859. The 9,000 square foot home has been beautifully restored and offers gracious rooms with high ceilings, hardwood floors, and original woodwork. The house boasts 8 spacious bedrooms, and 8 ½ bathrooms all accessed by an impressive spiral staircase that rises from the English basement to the third floor. The house is privately situated on 36 acres just outside the town of Orange. The current owners have operated a very successful bed and breakfast, which a new owner could continue or is ideal as a private estate. MLS# 530239 $1,750,000
AERIE c. 1850 ~ 170 acre estate located in the Somerset area of Orange Co. The 1850 manor home (6400+/- SF) has had numerous recent additions including a new 20x34 paneled living room. The 4-bedroom home has all the modern conveniences while keeping the old world charm. Dependencies include a 4 bed 3 bath guesthouse, 3 bed tenant house, 3-stall stable, pool and gardens. MLS# 541456 $2,320,000
8490 PUMPHOUSE RD ~ Small horse property located in the heart of Somerset and the Keswick Hunt. This mostly open & fenced 14.5 acre offering has a 3 bedroom & 3 bathroom house built in the 1940’s. Many recent improvements include a finished basement, 2 renovated bathrooms and remodeled kitchen. Situated at the end of a county road with great privacy. A 4-stall stable with tack room, wash stall & 2 new run-in sheds make this a great horse property. MLS# 521382 $595,000
CUTALONG FARM ~ 260 spectacular acres located only 15 minutes from the Town of Orange. This property features frontage on the North Anna River and great soil types. It is ideal for a farming operation, livestock or a country estate. Very private with numerous great building sites. The parcel is mostly open with fabulous interior views. Protected by a V.O.F. Conservation Easement. MLS# 552308 $935,000
HIGH GROUND COTTAGE ~ A rare offering in Keswick; a charming 3 bedroom cottage situated well off the road on 15 mostly open acres. The very private cottage offers a ground floor master, 2 and 1/2 baths, cozy den with fireplace, sitting area/sunroom, kitchen, laundry/mud room and 2-car garage. This great property is ideal for horses and has a great second building site. A rare chance to purchase a 15 acre property surrounded by large estates in Keswick. MLS# 543522 $735,000
Justin H. Wiley 434.981.5528 PIEDMONT OFFICE 132A East Main Street, Orange, VA 22960 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
Tel: 540.672.3903
Fax: 540.672.3906
wileyproperty.com