Middleburg Life March 2012

Middleburg Life March 2012

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

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Middleburg Life March 2012

Middleburg Bank’s Dawson To Retire

By Kara Clark Staff Writer When Reggie Dawson walks out of Middleburg Bank’s Washington Street offices March 15, it will mark the end of an era for both his family and the long-time banking institution.

You see, a Dawson has been a bank employee since 1925, marking almost 90 years of family employment at the bank.

Reggie Dawson’s uncle Earl H. Dawson was employed at the bank’s Middleburg location for 44 and a half years, beginning in the summer of 1925, just one year after the bank opened. He actively worked for the company as a loan officer until 1969 and remained as a

Reggie Dawson director of the bank until his death two years later.

The younger Dawson came aboard Feb. 2, 1970, following four years in the U.S. Air Force. Reggie Dawson was born and raised in the town he still calls home, as were his parents and grandparents before him. The four years spent in the armed forces mark his only extended time outside of Middleburg.

He graduated from Loudoun County High School in 1965, and enlisted in the Air Force the following March. When his four-year tour was coming to a close, Dawson did not have his eyes set on banking, but only on what his next career move would be. He wasn’t the only one.

A man who worked at the bank in the summer of 1969 informed his mother that they were looking for a new bank teller. His mother happened to be friends with Dawson’s

mother.

“She said ‘Look Reggie’s getting out of the Air Force in January, will they wait,’” he recalled. And, amazingly, they did.

“My mother called me in the service said, ‘When you get out they want to see you at the bank.’” Dawson said. He did just that, and was promptly hired. “That’s how I got my job.”

That first day was a day of multiple blessings for Dawson, as it was also the day he met his future wife, Gloria Jean Dawson.

The two would marry in October 1971.

“My claim to fame was I got a twofer when I walked in the door—a job and a wife,” he said.

Even more amazing, Dawson discovered last year during his work on the Middleburg Elementary School 100th Anniversary Celebration Committee that he and his wife actually attended grade school together for one year.

“I saw the roll books when I was on the anniversary committee and I saw her name.

We were together early; we just didn’t know it then,” he said.

His first job at the bank was in bookkeeping, alphabetizing checks and deposit slips.

“That way I was learning who our clients were, how they wrote their names. You didn’t have printed checks [back then]. Whatever they wrote we ciphered and tried to figure it out,” he said.

In 1975, Dawson landed his first promotion to assistant cashier and loan officer.

“Since getting that position and getting a desk I’ve been in loans ever since then, any job I’ve had has dealt with loans. Along the way they had other jobs that I was dutifully given because nobody else wanted them. It was part of my contract I think—other jobs as needed. I did compliance, audit work, payroll clerk, CRA officer, security officer.

I’ve worn a lot of hats over the years,” he says with a laugh.

With 42 years under his belt and his retirement pending, there have been many faces and experiences to recall over his long career. One particular day sticks out, though.

Dawson was charged with putting the time on the vaults for lock-up on Friday evenings, when the bank was set to close for the weekend.

“I came in Monday morning and started to unlock the vault and it wouldn’t unlock. I had put too much time on the vault and it Continued On Next Page

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Dawson

Continued From Page 3

didn’t open until 5 p.m. that Monday afternoon. I sat there all day losing weight sweating. The only way we ran the bank is because lots of night deposit bags came in [over the weekend] so we had money to cash checks.

I was sitting by the vault at 5 p.m. I heard a pronounced clicking sound and I jumped up and opened the vault,” he recalled. “That was a bad day at the office.”

And not a day one of his fellow employees would ever forget, as it was also her first day at the office. “She always remembers that,” Dawson says, laughing.

Working in loans, he has also enjoyed helping his clients achieve their goals.

“From people who wanted to buy a lawnmower to people wanting to buy a million-dollar property we did it all. It’s nice to look back over the years and see what you helped people accomplish,” he said.

Now, with retirement looming, Dawson

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Staff writers: Margaret Morton, Kara Clark Contributing writer: Lauren R. Giannini Columnists: Kay F. Colgan, Marcia Woolman, Kim Trapper, Cindy Battino Photography: Douglas Lees Copyright 2012 American Community Newspapers II Inc.

All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Middleburg, Upperville, Aldie, Millwood, The Plains, Rectortown, Delaplane, Paris, Boyce, Leesburg, Marshall and Warrenton.

is looking forward to the time he spends outside of the bank’s four walls. Volunteer work at his church, Middleburg United Methodist, his passion of woodworking and chipping away at a 40-year honey-do list are all on Dawson’s horizon. Not surprisingly, his retirement wont take him far.

“I’m planning to stay in the town as always,” Dawson said.

While waking up March 16 “independently poor and without a job,” he jokes, will certainly make for a huge change for Dawson, so will it for his long-time employer.

Noting that Middleburg Bank was a $9 million banking institution when he started in 1970, has now grown to over a $1 billion and has held its ground in the banking world for almost a century, he said his friends often ask him why the bank has experienced so much success.

“I can only put my finger on one, consistent thing,” Dawson says. “Since 1925 there’s always been a Dawson attached to the bank.”

Twin Kiss gets a hug from rider Kellie Witte after winning the Junior Horse Field Masters Chase at the Thornton Hill Point to Point March 3.

Photo By Douglas Lees

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.

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Community Foundation Tops $1M In Assets

By Margaret Morton Staff Writer From its first vague glimmerings in the late 1990s, a philanthropic concept by which the quality of life for residents of Loudoun and Fauquier counties could be significantly improved has grown to a level of achievement that its founders probably could not have envisioned. The progress and stature of the Piedmont Community Foundation, particularly over the past five years, has been impressive.

“We’ve come a long way, but there’s still a ways to go,” PCF President Brad Davis, a private equity investor who has presided over the charitable organization since 2006, said.

When he took over as president there was “some $80,000 in the bank and one donoradvised fund.” Today the foundation holds more than $1 million in assets and 23 funds.

Davis came to PCF already having established a community foundation in Chicago, and so was familiar with the concept that he likened to a broader version of the old United Way. The key thing is that the PCF is local, he said, focusing on Loudoun and northern Fauquier. Although both areas have “a fairly high net value, there are a lot of voids in terms of delivery of social services and keeping the environment clean and open.” Those needs have not been met by local governments or institutions, so private organizations have to help, he said, citing the ability to do that through the creation of a partnership of funds under the PCF umbrella.

By reaching into the community and educating people about what a community foundation is and what it can be, Davis said he hopes to grow the organization significantly. “We should be between $10 million and $20 million, with 100 funds,” he said.

That would have been a far cry in the minds of the foundation’s three creators back in 1999: Loudoun County’s Department of

Flag Help Dear Editor: I read the letter to the editor in the paper Vol. 33 Issue 11 about a young man returning from Afghanistan who was very distressed about a ragged American Flag that was in front of a store on Madison Street.

I belong to the Ketoctin Capter of the Nation Society Daughters of the American Revolution, charted in Bluemont and serving western Loudoun. Every year in June, we have

Family Services special projects planner Susan Jane Stack, now retired; then-Middleburg Mayor Tim Dimos; and Middleburg Bank President and CEO Joe Boling. Later they were joined as charter founders by thenDepartment of Family Services Director Bob Chirles, Steven. J. DeLong, Middleburg Bank Trust Officer David Hartley and Linda Stanard Kovac who also were part of the original board of directors.

The idea surfaced during a session of the county’s Leadership Loudoun program, which encourages participants to tackle community challenges. But nothing came out of that, Stack recalled recently. So, she took up the cudgels again.

“My motivation was to have a source of funding for local nonprofits that would remain local, and sustain them so they could avoid the continual struggle for funds to provide basic needs, such as food and shelter,” she said. A community foundation would provide a sustainable source of local funding, she thought.

“So then I called Tim and Joe, and asked them if they were still interested.” They had previously liked the idea and readily gave their support.

PCF, however, did not follow the normal pattern of establishment. “In the world of community foundations we did not start the same way as others,” Stack said, noting most begin with a financial base to kick-start the enterprise.

“We started because we believed in the concept; we had no money.”

But, 12 years later, Stack is pleased with the results. “I think it has achieved marvelous things—not huge and splashy—but many, many people have been helped,” she said.

Among the achievements she singled out has been a healthy introduction for young people to learn about the world of philanthropy first-hand through the youth grant program Continued On Page 6 a family picnic and the program is “Honoring Our Flag.” We have a very patriotic ceremony and then we burn all the damaged flags that have been turned in to the club.

You may contact the local regent for more information about the proper way of disposing of damaged flags. Also, flags may be turned in to anyone in our chapter.

Joy Westfall, Round Hill [You can find out more information online at: http://www.ketoctinchapterdar.org/]

MAD_10125x1125:Layout 1 2/27/12 1:40 PM Page 8

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Middleburg Life March 2012

“I always gravitated towards illustrating the female form and have always loved fashion. Mr. Paige, my art teacher

at Middleburg Academy, put

the two together for me

and suggested I attend a summer program on fashion illustration – the turning

point for me as an artist.”

INSLEE HAYNES – CLASS OF 2004

Washingtonian Magazine says of this successful fashion illustrator: “Our love affair with this former DC resident is no secret by now – we’ve featured her elegant watercolors in gift guides and bridal roundups galore. She’s up in New York now, rapidly gaining name recognition through collaborations with Kooba, Jacques Levine, and Neiman Marcus.”

To get to know Middleburg Academy better, go to our website or contact Charles Britton, Director of Admissions at 540.687.5581

MIDDLEBURG ACADEMY Discover our close­knit learning community w ww.mi d d l eb urga ca d emy.or g Self portrait by Inslee Haynes | www.inslee.net

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Foundation

Continued From Page 4

administered by The S. Murray Rust and Mary H.C. Rust Student Philanthropy Project. Loudoun and Fauquier students have become eagle-eyed grant application assessors as they have delved into the intricacies of various grant requests and conducted a rigorous review before making recommendations on each project.

Davis agreed, admiring the 24 high school students’ recent recommendations and calling the students’ analytical and rigorous process “pretty impressive.”

Stack is an unabashed supporter of the community foundation concept. “I think it’s a wonderful thing; every major city has one and Loudoun, with its level of wealth, should be in that group. We should take care of our own,” she said.

Now firmly established, the Middleburg-based community enterprise has reached a significant milestone, surpassing for the first time the $1 million mark in assets under management at the end of last year. The foundation also was listed as number 48 among the top 100 active grant makers in the nation in 2010, and Executive Director Karen Krei said she thought PCF would again achieve the listing when the 2011 rankings are published.

The milestone also coincides with another benchmark reached last year, when the organization also passed the $1 million mark in donations to a wide variety of projects in Loudoun and Fauquier counties, totaling just over $1.1 million distributed through 179 grant awards. Last year’s distribution was $182,000, up from the $94,000 distribution in 2010.

Krei, who came to the foundation in 2004 as its first professional staff member, remembers in the beginning there were just five people, all of whom volunteered their time. She started the job on a part-time basis, but it did not take long for the founders to realize to get traction for their fledgling foundation they needed a structure and permanent staff. In 2004, the foundation had achieved $80,000 in the bank, and one fund.

“First, we had to establish policies and put a structure in place,” Krei recalled, noting they sought feedback from the community.

Slowly the monies grew as the foundation developed different funds under its umbrella.

The Hill School then got interested. It maintained a number of endowments itself, but opened one with the foundation, setting up a community fund to provide care and upkeep of the 120-acre campus for the use of the community.

“Others began to hear of us and ask questions,” Krei recalled. In 2004, revenues were $87,000; in 2005, that figure had

March 2012 Middleburg Life grown to $236,000 and four funds. By 2006, the funds had grown to 10. 2007 saw five more and today, “we have 23 funds under management, $1 million plus in assets and have given out more than $1 million in grants,” Krei said. The amount of grant money distributed each year is in direct relation to the assets of the foundation.

The attraction of the foundation lies in its flexibility. Grants are distributed from a collection of distinct funds that form a partnership under the aegis of the PCF, which constantly seeks to improve and augment those funds that are established by local individuals and families, corporations and nonprofits.

Donors receive advice and financial expertise from the foundation to grow their funds and distribute money as they want through a variety of options. In 2010, the PCF endowment funds sustained an average unrealized gain of 9.54 percent in fair market value. That improvement, according to the foundation’s 2010 Annual Report, “contin-

“

Every major city has one and Loudoun, with its level of wealth, should be in that group. We should take care of our own.

– Susan-Jane Stack

”

ued to reverse the unrealized losses during the drastic economic downturn and extreme volatility of the stock markets which began at the end of 2007.”

Donors can fund endowments in various ways. One can give money for a specific purpose; establish a “donor-advised” fund whereby the donor’s wishes are respected; leave the decision up to the foundation; or contribute to the Community Fund, which anyone can fund and to which anyone can apply. As that fund grows, it can provide some “serious help for the community,” Krei said. The beauty of that fund, Krei said, is it can meet emerging needs, such as food and shelter, which have become more pressing during today’s tough economy. “The bigger that gets, the more we can help charities out there in the community,” Krei said.

In 2010, the foundation distributed $94,130 in grants, including four that were specifically designated; eight community grants via grant applications; and 10 donoradvised grants from the 100 Women Strong group that has benefited the foundation

significantly.

Family Fund.

Loudoun-based 100 Women Strong “I had been involved in the Piedmont concentrates on charitable giving to children area for many years and I wanted to do and families in that county. Founded in something that involved the concert series on December 2008, the nonprofit has become a a permanent basis,” she said. She also liked major charitable force in the county, having the multi-faceted organization that allows made grants of $270,000 over the past two her to support the work “they do for all the years and is one of the reasons the PCF is other organizations.” Because the PCF is able now in the nationally ranked list of the most utilize money from so many sources, it is able active grant-makers in the U.S., according to to grow the assets effectively, she said.

Krei.

And that is the core objective of the “They help us move temporary funds PCF: to be a catalyst and facilitator, conduit through, and also have permanent endow- and steward for charitable giving in the two ments,” Krei said. counties, according to Krei.

P C F President and founder Karen Schaufeld measures its success by its ability to “grow” said being able to work through PCF enabled an unrestricted permanent endowment to 100 Women Strong to “get off the ground meet community needs now and in the quickly and work on our mission.” She future; to establish and administer a straechoed Parker’s comments about the signifi- tegic grant-making program that can bring cance of PCF’s taking the administrative and about positive long-term changes in the two regulatory burden off donors’ plates. communities; and to bring collaborative In describing why her foundation chose resources together to improve the quality of PCF, Schaufeld said “primarily we chose it life locally. because it was part of Loudoun County; “We grow the assets for [community also it was really important for IRS require- donors],” Krei said, noting the way the founments—it lets us spend time on our mission dation works is very flexible and cost-effecinstead of worrying about IRS compliance; tive. “The community in essence owns it; we thirdly, we try to do everything local and help in lots of ways. it’s an organization that started locally and And, in a good example of “if at first continues to support local causes.” you don’t succeed, keep trying,” Krei said.

Willowcroft Vineyards owner and vet- Leadership Loudoun, where the idea first eran winemaker Lew Parker established The was aired publicly, now wants to build an Willowcroft Science Endowment Fund, to endowment. provide permanent support for the Loudoun To achieve its work, the PCF over the County Public Schools’ Regional Science & past six months has added five new members Engineering Fair. Long passionately inter- to its board of directors, bringing the full ested in the subject, Parker said the PCF complement to 17 individuals. provides an easy way for a donor to make The new directors include: a significant and lasting grant. He echoed • Cassandra Kincaid, an attorney with offices Schaufeld’s IRS-related comments, noting in Warrenton and McLean. The Warrenton many of the expensive and time-consum- resident contributes to pro-bono programs, ing administrative and regulatory require- primarily for low-income individuals and ments for donors are taken care of through the elderly. the foundation, taking the burden off the • Patricia W. Stout, a business executive, donor’s back. entrepreneur and philanthropist, whose PCF also hosts Acorn Funds, where a experience included the formation and mandonor “wants to get something going, and agement of high-tech companies. Stout’s contributes $1,000.” The idea is that, like an focus is on helping disadvantaged women acorn, it will grow into a full-fledged fund. and children. She lives in Middleburg.

Each “acorn” gets 10 years to convert the • Ben Wegdam, founder and owner of the $1,000 into $10,000. If it doesn’t it rolls over 12-store Crème de la Crème retail chain, to the Community Fund, Krei said. founded in 2001 and operating under the A good example is the Sharyn’s Angels brands LouLou and Crème de la Crème.

Cancer Fund, set up by Dr. Paula Bass and Wegdam lives in Marshall. her son in memory of her sister Sharyn, who • Katherine L. Armfield, senior vice-presidied of breast cancer in 2004. It did not need dent and principal partner of AH&T Insur10 years—within 14 months the fund had ance in Leesburg. The Middleburg resident turned into a permanent endowment and is responsible for designing and placing was ready to make its first grant to cancer corporate property and casualty insurance patients in need. programs.

Charlotte Gollobin, who lived with her • Verna Oliva-Flemming, an educator and late husband Len Gollobin in Waterford mental health counselor and fashion designer for many years and was a founder of the of athletic clothing. She was an adjunct Waterford Concert Series, chose the founda- professor in the psychology department at tion through hearing of it from a neighbor. Shenandoah University. She lives in The Through the PCF she set up the Gollobin Plains.

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Middleburg Life March 2012

Hosmer Takes To Runway Of Fashion For Paws

By Lauren R. Giannini For Middleburg Life Cristina Maria Hosmer looks as if she could step right into a Ralph Lauren photo shoot—any time, day or evening. Jumper rider turned polo fanatic, she has done some modeling and now she’s totally pleased about her invitation to participate in this year’s Fashion For Paws with Austin, her Jack Russell terrier, who, at eight, looks a bit portly, albeit fashionable in his winter jacket.

“Austin is quite a dandy and he has a lot of personality,” says Hosmer with a laugh.

“He used to come to the barn with me every day. He rode in the car with me everywhere.

That dog has been with me for years and he understands me.”

Which means essentially that Austin will deal with being fussed over, attired in some chi-chi doggie outfit, and strut his stuff with Hosmer April 14 when Fashion For Paws puts on its annual humongous, glitterati Runway Show to benefit the Washington Humane Society at the National Building Museum.

There’s even a friendly competition among the models to see who can raise the most funds for WHS, a rescue shelter that deals with 30,000 unwanted and abandoned pets each year. Hosmer makes no secret that she would love to win, and if her strong competitive drive is any indication, she will give every model a run for the money. Literally, but remember: Hosmer knows it’s all in good fun for a worthy cause.

Hosmer’s elegant looks and stylish casual attire during the course of a business day are just another “uniform” and she’s equally at home in tall boots, breeches and kneeguards to play polo. The fact that she gets dirty and sweaty during the demands of the game harks back to her early childhood in Clifton. Born in Miami and sporting a family tree with roots in Cuba and horses, Hosmer followed in her parents’ equestrian footprints. At six she was able to groom and saddle, ride and jump—all by herself.

During the Clifton years, Hosmer stayed often with her mother who lived on a farm in Middleburg. This connection proved to be an invisible unbreakable thread. After college and a dream job running a horse farm, plus assorted adventures learning her way around the horse world, Hosmer returned to the Middleburg area. It’s all about the horses and the people and the sporting traditions.

Quite often through the season, Hosmer can be seen playing polo at Great Meadow.

She rides often on arena teams and enjoys any chance she gets to play grass polo. Last year, Hosmer traveled to Florida with local polo enthusiasts Jeanne Blackwell, Debbie Nash

and Whitney Ross to play in the AMG Miami Womens Beach Polo World Cup. Hosmer’s mentor John Gobin, the globe-trotting polo pro who manages the Great Meadow Polo Club, coached the ladies and played on one of the men’s teams. Best believe that Hosmer has made plans to return to Miami to play in the tournament April 26.

“I’m working on some events to raise funds for Fashion For Paws,” said Hosmer.

“I’m doing a dog show event and on Facebook I’m offering a series of five riding lessons on my wonderful show horses in Middleburg.

My high performance hunter is so safe my great-grandmother could ride him. I’m also putting together a social evening in DC, like a

The Byrne Gallery is proud to present

Champagne and Flowers 2012 Spring Jewelry Reception Please join us to meet the artists and preview our new collection Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Cristina Maria Hosmer and Austin pre-season polo party.”

Of course, you can contribute directly to Washington Humane Society. If you print Hosmer’s name on the memo line she’ll get credit for your donation in the competition.

“Aside from my riding, I am very social in DC, which is the charity capitol of the world, and a few years ago friends invited me to the charity launch for Fashion For Paws and I also went to the Runway Show. It is one of the biggest events of the year. All the people I knew were there and I thought it was neat that the models had to raise a certain amount of money and that everyone was working toward the same goal. The Runway Show is this great big party, all the guests dressed to the nines, lots of celebrities—like a fashion show in itself.”

Hosmer had friends on various committees and she set her sights to be one of the top fundraising models. Never underestimate the power of a horseperson.

“My main focus is to raise $5,000— everything after that is a bonus,” Hosmer said.

To find out more, go online to: www. fashionforpaws.org.

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Schools 31 Teams Grapple In STEM Competition

Dozens of high school and middle school girls spent Saturday, Feb. 18, engineering brick walls, mixing chemical solutions, solving genetic and forensic quandaries, and conquering tricky logic problems at Foxcroft School’s K2M Expedition: The STEM Summit. Foxcroft School in Middleburg and Norwood School in Bethesda, MD, captured the competition’s high school and middle school titles, respectively.

“It was an outstanding day for all involved,” Foxcroft Head of School Mary Louise Leipheimer stated. “What these girls can do with math, science and technology is amazing. I don’t know when I’ve been so proud of our school.”

The STEM Summit attracted a number of talented students from Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC, with girls from 19 high schools and 12 middle schools competing.

Working in teams of 3 or 4, students solved problems that draw on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills.

Challenges included engineering a brick wall with the longest possible overhang, mixing chemical solutions to identify each element, solving a genetics problem called “Who’s Your Daddy?” and conquering tricky logic problems. The middle school competition also included a forensics exercise that involved analyzing fingerprints and fiber samples.

The event was sponsored by K2M, Inc., a Leesburg firm that develops technological innovations for surgeons to treat complex spinal disorders. Two of the company’s young engineers conducted one of the STEM Summit events, and CEO Eric Major came to watch.

“We were so impressed with the energy, enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity of the Foxcroft girls who visited our lab last spring,” stated Major, referring to a field trip by the In the high school division of theK2M Expedition, the chemistry challenge required teams to mix School’s Enginnering and AP Biology classes six solutions to identify each, as members of Foxcroft’s Team Fusion (from left) Coco Boan, Zoe to learn about K2M’s engineering. “So we Murphy, Catherine Reynolds and Danielle Cole are doing here. thought partnering with Foxcroft to sponsor Department presents its spring musical Foot- as a performing arts consultant to the high this event made a lot of sense.” loose March 9 through 11. school. Choreography is by Kim Tapper.

The popular musical born from the 1984 Performances are at 7 p.m. March 9 blockbuster film will showcase colorful ’80s and 10, and 3 p.m. March 11 in The Hill’s style costumes and hairdos. The production School’s Sheila C. Johnson Performing Arts is co-directed by Laurelyn Morrison, Middle- Center, 130 S. Madison St., in Middleburg.

Get ready to put on your dancing shoes. burg Academy’s choral director and drama Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students Middleburg Academy’s Performing Arts instructor, and Tom Sweitzer, who serves and children.

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Middleburg Life March 2012 For more information, go online to: www.middleburgacademy.org.

Foxcroft Open House Draws A Crowd

The sneak peak of Foxcroft’s new summer camp program attracted lots of interest, with more than 60 people turning out for the school’s Fun Days preview event. The open house was led by camps director Michelle Woodruff and her staff at the School’s Athletic/Student Center.

Prospective campers and their families met directors of most of the specialty camps as well as the core Fun Days camp. Counselors were on hand to give tours of the facilities,

including the swimming pool, two gymnasiums, and tennis courts. Fun Days @ Foxcroft is a new program offering five one-week sessions, beginning July 9 and running through Aug. 10. The core program is a traditional summer camp program for ages 5-12. Specialty camps for youngsters up to 15 years old focus on riding, tennis, theater, lacrosse, aquatics and engineering are available in the mornings. Extended care and transportation also will be available.

While a number of participants signed up following the preview, registration is continuing online. To learn more or to sign up, go online to: www.foxcroft.org/gofundays. You also may call the school at (540) 687-4553.

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Middleburg Montessori, Artists Team Up For Fundraiser

By Lauren R. Giannini For Middleburg Life The Middleburg Montessori School “Art of the Piedmont� Auction might have been the school’s first attempt to raise funds by selling works of art, but you would never know it by the polished and classic event staged on Feb. 24 at the Middleburg Community Center.

The auction featured 75 pieces of original art, including paintings in many media, ceramics and photographs as well as children’s art and several pieces of furniture from Plank & Nickel. Luke Cullinane of Virginia Carpenter enhanced the works of art with hand-made display boards. “Art of the Piedmontâ€? captivated the discerning eye of 250 guests who also enjoyed hors d’oeuvres with a French flair from Julien’s CafĂŠ Restaurant and the wares of Barrel Oak Winery. “This was the best fundraiser the school has had by far,â€? BethAnn Slater, Head of the School and president of its board of directors, said. “It was really the idea of Tara McIntosh, who shared it with us last July. The art auction grew and changed, adapting to this area.

The funds we raised will help a combination of efforts as we continue to grow our primary and elementary programs. We can apply the money to all sorts of projects.�

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Middleburg Montessori, registered as a 501(c)(3), held its third annual community scholarship fundraiser last September, but those monies are dedicated to enable local children to avail themselves of the benefits of the Montessori method of learning. The school is growing, literally and figuratively.

For more than 30 years it has educated children ages 2½ to six. As elementary enrollment (ages six through 12) increases, so do the needs for more room and more trained personnel.

McIntosh, who suggested the art auction as a way of raising funds for a capitol campaign, co-chaired with Ali Pejacsevich, Susana Calley, and supported by many more volunteer school family members. They set up the auction so artists could donate one piece that would raise funds for the school and also be able to sell one or two individual pieces. “It was different with every artist,� McIn- Luke Cullinane, the Virginia carpenter who custom built the display boards for the Art Auction, tosh said. “I don’t know how much we made, posees with two of the artists, Misia Broadhead-Barham and Anthony Barham.

Photo by Mona Botwick but I think we blew it out of the park. Julien’s catering was over the top: delicious and plenty The list of generous artists included art auction, also noted the generosity of the of it. We had Barrel Oak Winery and another Howard Allen, Anthony Barham, Kim Bas- artists and how excited they were about the separate cash bar for beer and champagne, inger, Misia Broadhead-Barham, Armand event. She felt that it made absolute sense to and Jennie Leigh Obert played her violin. It Cabrera, Debbie Cadenas, Maribe Chan- have a community art show with local artists, was a really wonderful time and all the artists dler-Gardiner, Hwa Crawford, Mikel Diaz, considering that Middleburg Montessori is a enjoyed themselves and said it was a great Richard Dimon, Gail Guerreri-Maslyk, Sarah community school. It was a win-win situation event.�

Mackie, Tia Maggio, Charles Matheson, Tom on both sides. She has been a school parent Neel, Lilla Ohrstrom, Plank & Nickel, Jim for six years: her youngest (3½) is still in the Poston, Bradley Stevens, Dana Lee Thomp- Montessori program, but the two older ones son, Dana Volkert, Vicki Wadlow, Antonia now attend the Hill School.

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Middleburg Life March 2012

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

On Exhibit: Bruno Liljefors At NSML The National Sporting Library and Museum has changed its exhibition from the inaugural “Afield in America” to The Wildlife Paintings of Bruno Liljefors (Swedish, 1860–1939) and a varied new showing of highlights of its permanent collection.

As you enter the main hallway a stunning horse head sculpture sets the tone of a dramatic “wow” factor. Nic Fiddian-Green (British), the sculptor, says that this work is not about the horse but about the shape and geometry of its iconic form. “Still Water,” the title of this powerful piece is breathtaking in its heroic dimension. And, it was indeed inspired by the artist’s viewing of horses in a frieze that he saw in the marbles from the Parthenon when he was in the British Museum in London.

Seeing and observation are key features that museums are “all about.” Actually, they ask us to take the time to really look, discern, distinguish and enjoy all the detail and archetypical symbols contained either deliberately or subconsciously in each work of art. Placing this sculpture at the entry adds perfect dramatic pitch to both the exhibit and museum itself. It has the power to captivate as you acknowledge its geometry and mentally feel the tactile rivets in the steel and brushy blue-gray smoke patina of the surface.

After you catch your breath and are able to separate from this magnetic tour de force, you enter a world that paints the fierce pointed focus of an eagle’s eye and the swift blur of a rabbit’s run.

Caught in a freeze frame, furry foxes hop over stonewalls, as the artist captures their portraits in motion. “I paint animal portraits,” Liljefors modestly said.

Going upstairs to the second floor, cowboys on horseback abound and you may first gasp, “four Remington’s!” But look again! That is what you are meant to do—as you pick out which qualities differ from bronze to bronze and sculptor to sculptor. This is the harder part, really observing and beginning to characterize each artist’s work. This is the start of a life long passion for sharing a vision; with its marvelous display unfettered by glass cases the NSLM makes it easy.

While I was viewing the current exhibit I happened to see the final touches being put on the lighting of one of my favorite paintings in the permanent collection. Hannah Reuter, curatorial assistant, was carefully positioning the spots under the watchful eye of her father, Turner Reuter who guided and commended her on an excellent job. This was something beautiful that I saw at the NSLM, too.

SUSAN BYRNE

On the Arts

The Wildlife Paintings of Bruno Liljefors (Swedish, 1860 – 1939) Feb. 4–March 15 National Sporting Library and Museum, 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg Museum Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Library Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The NSLM is closed on federal holidays.

Library: (540) 687-6542; Museum: (540) 446-0776; www.nsl.org

Live An Artful Life, The Plains

Congratulations to Tom Neel on his artwork being chosen for the permanent collection of the Winchester Medical Center. In January, Winchester Medical Center’s celebrated the opening of its new campus expansion, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and tours. Neel, a resident of Marshall, was selected by Winchester Medical Center as a featured artist and was honored by his 36” X 48” oil painting titled “Wildflowers,” being placed at the front entrance of the new 400,000 square foot North Tower.

Additionally, five new giclee reproductions on canvas of the artist’s work were created especially for this project and extend down the main corridor of this state of the art Women’s Delivery Center and Critical Care Unit. All are in very limited editions of 10, the largest of which is 30” X 60” and all are available through Live An Artful Life Gallery, located at 6474 Main St. The Plains.

Later in April, the gallery will host a unique show and sale to celebrate their three-year anniversary April 21. The show, titled “4 Women Paint,” will feature Loudoun County artists Trisha Adams and Libby Stevens, as well as the work of Fairfax County artists Christine Lashley and Elaine Elinsky, each painting their own still life of a one wonderful floral arrangement centrally

Works of Bruno Liljefors Top: Foxes, 1892 Oil on canvas, 57 ½ x 79 inches. Bottom: Var-

landscap (Spring Land- scape), 1912 Oil on canvas 25 3⁄4 x 46 inches. Courtesy of the Genesee Country Village & Museum, Mumford, NY. located in the gallery.

Beginning at 2 p.m., this on-site painting experience will immerse viewers into the vision of these four talented women. Those in attendance will not only be able to watch the four paintings be created in four different mediums—oil, watercolor, acrylic and pastel—but also have opportunities to speak with the artists as they are painting. As the day progresses and the paintings near completion, the reception will begin at 6 p.m. featuring the award winning wines of Delaplane Cellars and hors d’oeuvres.

In addition to the still life paintings they complete on opening day, each artist will have several other paintings available. The show runs through May 13.

Adams was a graphic designer before taking up the brush seriously in 2001. Mostly painting from life, she focuses on the effects of light and capturing harmonious color. Adams’ artwork has been featured in print in American Art Collector magazine and in the juried compilation, “Best of America: Oil Artists & Artisans,” among other publications.

Elinsky is a contemporary impressionist artist who retired from a career in health care in 2000 to begin her career in art. She studied at the Art League in Alexandria and the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, DC. Painting in watercolor, acrylic and oil, Lashley studied in Paris at the Parsons Art Institute and the Sorbonne and continued on to earn her bachelor of fine arts at Washington University in

13

Middleburg Life March 2012 and Oil Painters of America.

Stevens is an award-winning painter known for her richly colored landscapes of Loudoun County. She received her formal art education at the Tyler School of Art/Temple University in Philadelphia and creates her works in pastel and oil and has taught pastel painting since 2002.

Live An Artful Life is an artful lifestyle gallery featuring fine art and fine craft made in America. The gallery is located at 6474 Main St. in The Plains. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Additional information on the gallery as well as upcoming events is available by calling 540-253-9797 or going online to: www.liveanartfullife. com.

Barrel Oak Fine Art & Tasting Room, Middleburg

Barrel Oak invites us to visit Virginia’s newest fine art gallery/wine tasting room as they present local oil painter, Hwa Crawford. The exhibit, “Spring Flowers & Summer Breezes,” showcases the beauty of Virginia’s warmer seasons from the Cherry Blossoms on the National Mall to shady summery days by the Potomac. Guests are invited to meet the artist at a reception in her honor Saturday, March 31, 4-7 p.m., local Virginia wines, live music, & light fare will be served.

Crawford resides in Northern Virginia after moving from her native Korea in her early 20s to study at George Mason University. Crawford is studying art privately with award-winning fine artist, Armand Cabrera. She is active with the Great Falls Foundation for the Arts. An artist member of Great Falls Atelier and the Torpedo Factory Art League in Alexandria, Hwa has been juried into highly-regarded regional art shows such as Clarke County’s “Art at the Mill,” the “Scapes - International Landscape Show” at the Art League Gallery in Old Town Alexandria, solo and group exhibitions at the Fairfax County Library and the acclaimed Great Falls Studios annual Studio Tour, to name a few.

For additional information on the exhibit, contact Erik Bowen, tasting room director by email at: erik@barreloak.com.

Barrel Oak Fine Art Gallery & Tasting Room is located at 8 E. Washington St. (next to the Red Fox Inn) in Middleburg. Hours are Saturdays 1-8 p.m. and Sundays 1-6 p.m. and by appointment. You can find out more online at: www.barreloak.com.

Planning Group Seeks Supporters For Middleburg Museum Effort One of the most ardent goals of a group of residents and members of the Middleburg Town Council is to have a museum dedicated to the history of Middleburg and the surrounding area. Many smaller towns have museums, why not Middleburg, they ask.

Evolving from its early days as a major trading stop at the mid-way point between Alexandria and Winchester and then as the hub of a thriving agricultural area in southwest Loudoun that boasted around 18 mills, today the traditional commodity agriculture has largely given way to equine farms and wineries, but the town remains a major shopping venue and is a busy tourism center.

For the past several years a town-appointed committee, headed by former Town Councilwoman Eura Lewis, has been looking into the possibility of creating a museum to chronicle the rich history of the town and its surrounding areas. Town Council member Kathy Jo Shea serves as council liaison to the committee.

As enthusiasm over the project mounts, the committee has decided to hold a kick-off event to get people excited about establishing a museum. Organizers want to find volunteers who will join the cause as well as look into their family’s history to dig out information and artifacts, including dairies, letters and old photographs.

Through such as process, not only will the public learn about the town’s history, but also researchers may find more about their family’s legacy and be spurred to dig deeper into history, Lewis said.

The debut event is to be held from 5-8 p.m. April 20. A location has not yet been finalized, but details will be circulated nearer the event, according to Lewis.

For all those involved, a museum in Middleburg is “long overdue” and committee members hope they will find plenty of enthusiasm and helpers come April 20.

For more information or to offer help with the project, contact Lewis at 540-687-6538.

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Heritage Day & Fishing Fun

Marcia Woolman, former president of the rapidan Chapter of Trout Unlimited, spoke on “Threats to Native Trout” during the 24th Rapidan Trout Unlimited Annual Fishing Show at the Fauquier County Fairground near Warrenton. Her talk centered on the Eastern or Appalacian Brook Trout and the Cuttthroat Trout in the western U.S. She is chairwoman of the Eastern Brook trout Workgroup on Trout Unlimited’s National Leadership Council. In the photo she displays a photo of an 11 1/2 inch brook trout she caught and released in the Rapidan headwaters. Below. a native brook trout.

Photo by Douglas Lees

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Imagine an entire private stretch of the Rose River just for kids to fish for trout.

There will be lots of Trout Unlimited volunteers to assist with fishing lessons, fly casting, fly tying and to show you what trout eat and how to catch them. But that’s not all; there will be a deer hunting simulator, turkey calling contests, instructional archery, live snakes and fish exhibits and hay rides, along with many other learning opportunities for the entire family. All this is free and every child who registers will receive a very nice gift.

These gifts will include lots of fishing rods, which will be donated by some of the major fishing industry businesses.

Learning something new, especially if it is out of doors, can be a memorable family experience. Heritage Day is always the first Saturday in April, which this year is April 7. Fishing starts at 9 a.m. It is the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries attempt to bring back some of the traditions of country life that are part of our great Virginia heritage. This partnership between VDGIF, Graves Mountain Lodge and Trout Unlimited continues to grow and offer more varied opportunities each year.

These volunteers are donating their day to provide you with an unforgettable family experience in the great outdoors.

MARCIA WOOLMAN Outdoors

The Rapidan Kid’s Fishing Day has a 30-year history in this area and has evolved to become part of our Heritage Day celebration.

It still offers as its core activity fishing for trout, stocked by VDGIF, for all kids 12 and under. However, the expanded event, now thanks to Graves Mt. Lodge, has great food available, a covered pavilion streamside with a fireplace and a lot of learning opportunities presented by staff from federal, state and local agencies. There also will be lots of activities available for all members of the family. There will be pond fishing for older children, with just the stream reserved for 12 and under. The volunteers will help get the kids started if they just bring a fishing rod. The main focus of the day is family fun and outdoor education.

As if this weren’t enough, the drive to Syria, which is at the very edge of Shenandoah National Park is one of the most scenic drives in the state. In addition, the upstream section of the Rose River in the park contains good populations of native brook trout which is certainly one of the most beautiful fish in the world. You can bring your family and make a day of it, and if the weather is good you can try a hike or do some fishing in the park as well. So pull on your hiking boots and a ball cap. Rain or shine there will be lots to do and much to learn.

[Marcia Woolman is a freelance writer from Middleburg and is Trout Unlimited volunteer leader for this Heritage Day event.]

Although a bit creepy looking, the stonefly found in the Rapidan headwaters below Hoover’s Camp is a very good sign. The stonefly is very pollution sensitive and if you find them living under the rocks and hatches it is an indicator of the stream’s water quality.

Photo by Douglas Lees

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Middleburg Life March 2012

ON THE MARKET

Celebrate a Georgian-Revival Masterpiece ‘Canterbury’ Is Set on Almost 200 Acres and Exudes Timeless Elegance “One of the most beautiful homes in America” was how the grand three story Georgian Revival mansion of Canterbury was hailed by the American and French Society of Architects soon after completion in 1939.

Col. Albert Pierce and his wife were drawn to the magnificent horse country of the countryside to build a property to rival other fine estates of Virginia. Four years in the design process with renowned architects Russell Walcott and Robert Work of Chicago and another four years in construction, using the finest of materials and craftsmen the exquisite manor home was completed.

During the same time, Col. Pierce commissioned the highly acclaimed Ferruccio Vitale to design the landscape of the then 14,000-acre estate to bring the foxhunt to his door.

Just 45 minutes from Dulles International Airport in the magnificent countryside, Canterbury – with its extensive grounds and convenient location – offers the potential to afford the new owner an elegant country home, corporate retreat or private hotel.

The property, with its acclaimed home and 191 acres of grounds, currently is on the market, listed at $9,750,000 by John Coles of Talbot and Thomas Real Estate.

Traveling the mile long drive with its lovely stone bridges gives a glimpse of the current estate, which encompasses beautiful farmland, ponds, breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoys more than a half-mile of dramatic river frontage on the Rappahannock.

Located in the coveted Warrenton Hunt, Canterbury is also adjacent to the Fauquier Springs Country Club, with its 18-hole golf course, built on the grounds of the famous and historic Fauquier White Sulphur Springs Resort and Spa of pre-Civil War times.

The manor home has been meticulously maintained and restored to its original elegance. Upon entering the beautiful sun filled Grand Reception Hall, one is immediately aware of the quality and the many fine details such as the intricately-laid marble flooring with black inlays and delicately carved trim and moulding.

Through an arched doorway your eyes are drawn to the exquisite three-story Carrera marble flying staircase, one of the few in the world. Marble was used extensively throughout the residence including much of the flooring, many of the 14 elegant fire-

places and the exterior windowsills. The beauty is more impressive when one learns that beneath the beauty is construction of commercial quality with the use of steel and concrete supports and floors and solid brick interior walls making this one of the most structurally superior and costly of residences to build.

Included in the more than 30 rooms of Canterbury is the richly carved, English oak-paneled Canterbury Room (48x20) with stately fireplace, book shelves, Palladian window capturing the expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and French doors leading out to the columned veranda with views of the landscaped grounds.

The cozy Weather Room has hidden doorways behind which stairs lead to the upper and lower levels.

On each side of the reception hall is the formal dining room and formal Living Room, each with inlaid wood floors, intricate molding and beautiful fireplaces.

The luxurious Owner’s Suite has com-

bined two of the previous stately bedrooms and includes the bedroom, sitting room, exercise room as well as two marbled baths.

Six additional bedroom suites, most with dressing rooms and each with a working fireplace and private bath, are located on the second and third floors.

Step back in time as you enter the lower level. The arched and columned Hunt Room reminiscent of medieval times has hosted many hunt breakfasts. Also included in this room is an English tavern and 2,000-bottle wine vault. Also on this level are numerous game rooms, storage and mechanical rooms, as well as a large laundry.

In 2007, major renovation came to Canterbury. In keeping with the superior quality of the home, the current owners commissioned Clive Christian Kitchens to design and install their new exquisite kitchen, family room and prep room (23 x 10) with walls of fine cabinetry, superior appliances and marble countertops. At the same time, they remodeled the space above this area into a

lovely one-bedroom apartment.

From the impressive back verandah of the home, the formal lawn was extended by leveling an area above the dramatic slope to the Rappahannock. With spectacular and expansive views over protected land, the grounds have the potential to be truly magnificent world-class gardens.

The swimming pool, with its two bathhouses, is gracefully sited at the base of the grand terraced lawn. The tennis court has its own pavilion with kitchen and bath.

Both the pool and tennis pavilion are exquisite and awaiting restoration.

Three tenant homes, two of which have been remodeled, are included in the dependencies; one of the homes is rumored to be the oldest home in Fauquier County.

Articles are prepared by Middleburg Life’s real estate advertising department on behalf of clients.

For information on the home, contact the listing agent. For information on having a house reviewed, contact the Middleburg Life real estate advertising department at (571) 333-6273.

Facts for buyers

Address: 8605 Canterbury Drive, Warrenton (20186).

Listed at: $9,750,000 by John Coles, Thomas and Talbot Real Estate (540) 270-0944.

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Steeped in Piedmont Hunt History, the land and manor home of Clifton Farm is understated elegance. As one crests the knoll of the long winding drive the home sits nestled in its own protected environment of 297 acres of some of the most beautifully open and rolling land.

Tremendous Easement Potential. $6,999,000

199 acres in the heart of the Orange County Hunt Territory s 5 Bedroom Georgian Manor sFormal living and dining rooms s Solarium s Pools c.1801 Patent house, 2 tenant houses Horse facilities include an indoor arena with 13 stalls, paddocks and fields with run-ins. & apartment and pond. In $6,500,000 a VOF Conservation Easement.

Custom Built English style stone/stucco 3-story home s4 Bedrooms, Large Master, In-law suite with separate entrance sSlate Roof, Game Room, Theatre, Study, Custom Kitchen, 4 Stone Fireplaces sExtensive Horse Facilities s18 Stall Barn s2 Stall Barn s14 Paddocks sLarge Ring. $6,500,000

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Exquisite details throughout this incredible 12 bedroom Georgian Revival manor home built in 1936. Situated on over 191 acres. This lovely home boasts a Reception Hall and a white Carrara marble Flying Staircase accessing 3 levels. Over 1/2 mile of Rappahannock River frontage, spectacular views, springs, ponds and rolling pasture

$9,750,000

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Near Middleburg sBeautiful Brick Georgian style home built in the mid 19th century on 165 acres s7 Bedrooms, 8 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths s double Parlor/Living Room, Paneled Library, Dining Room sPool s4 Bedroom Tenant House s9 Stall StablesConservation EasementsPiedmont Hunt. $4,500,000

Sought after Springs Road location. Spectacular, verdant 182 acres with Rappahannock River frontage and pond. Beautifully protected views of the mountains, charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath cottage with living room, library/study, kitchen and breakfast room.

Access road to be shared. $3,640,000

164 acres in an ideal location. Beautiful Open and wooded land near Bluemont in the heart of Piedmont Hunt Territory with spectacular mountain views and scenic vistas and great home sites. Open Space Easement and Fox Hunting Easement. Property is in 2 parcels and may or may not be combined. $3,034,000

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51+ acre farm with a beautiful 5 BR home with gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, great views, pool, flagstone terrace and carriage house - extensive horse facilities - 9 stall barn, covered arena, outdoor arena, 7 paddocks, 4 stall shed row barn, machine shed $2,350,000

Historic circa 1845 home on 32 acres in Orange County Hunt s1st floor Master sDen sDramatic Grand Salon sEnglish Kitchen slarge Dining Rooms Billiard Room sSmall 2nd Kitchen/Bar leads to Patio, Pool & charming Guest Cottage s7 Stall barn adjoins 3 bedroom, 2 bath Managers house. $1,950,000

A beautiful 1919 Virginia farmhouse. 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 2 Fireplaces, 1 Woodstove, Master on the first floor, Vibrant Gardens, Board Fencing, and Great Views sSituated on 105 acres s5 Stall Barn with Tack Room, and Machine Shop, 4 Bays for Equipment sOrange County Hunt Territory. $1,450,000

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Awe-inspiring Federal manor home on 200+ acres outside of Paris s 4 Bedrooms s 4 ½ Baths s 12 ½‘ Ceilings s 25’ columns s Original Millwork and Authentic Hardware Throughout s 8 Original Fireplace Mantels s Professional Equestrian Facilities s Carriage House s Manager’s Cabin s Complete renovation in 2006 s Stunning views and more $4,250,000

DoVEr roAD LAND

181 acres of beautiful rolling farm land overlooking Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. Views of the Bull Run Mountains on the east. This offering includes a 3-bedroom house, tenant house, two cottages, 8-stall barn, 6-stall barn, 3 sheds, one with silo, and building $2,700,000 site. Sold as one piece or two parcels.

Outstanding equestrian training facility. 111 acres in 3 parcels includes regulation polo field, cross country courses, outdoor ring, indoor arena, 5/8 mile track, 3acre lake for swimming, stabling for 50 horses in 3 barns, 20 paddocks, main house/office, tenant house, 2 apartments. $2,500,000

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Extrordinary estate on over 180 acres at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains ideal for horses. Fabulous historic manor home with 7 Bedrooms sNew Gourmet State of the Art Kitchen & Baths s gorgeous full wall windows, overlooking 10 acre lake s10 stall stable sPaddocks with run-in sheds sPool and poolhouse with fireplace, spa and new tennis courts. $4,250,000

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Beautifully restored and enlarged, circa 1800 log and clapboard home in a tranquil setting on 29+ acres. 3 Bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, pool, 4 stall bank barn, 2 ponds, stone walls, stone terrace and perennial gardens reminiscent of Williamsburg. 3 parcels. $1,350,000

Rappahannock County~Beautiful 3 Bedroom Brick Colonial home on 25 acres with tremendous views s Very private s 10'ceilings on 1st floor, 9'ceilings on 2nd s Great Kitchen with Island s Six-foot Windows s Elegant Floor Plan s Mud Room sBasement s Two Bay Garage s Easy to maintain sNice Elevations Very well built $995,000

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Beautifully renovated Historic Unison Schoolhouse, circa 1870. s Pine flooring, high ceilings, mouldings and perennial gardens s The horse facilities include a recently built 4 stall barn w/excellent tack room & feed storageopen to 4 paddocks with automatic waterers. Great rideout in prime Piedmont Hunt $795,000

Gently rolling triangle shaped parcel of mostly open land; 22.9 acres bounded by US Routes 17, 845 and 245 across from Great Meadow. Property has multiple divisional rightsand is now in land use. Prime potential for easement with tax credits. Seller reserves right to deed restrict the property to 4 houses.

NEAR THE PLAINS - 142 acres. Great location South of The Plains. Mostly wooded with views. $1,400,000

www.ThoMAS-TALboT.com

Our listings receive over 35,000 visits world wide per month.

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice.

Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

PEC LAND - Paris Mountain- 487 Acres adjacent to Historic Ovoka Farm and Sky Meadows State Park. Conservation land with potential to build two homes; however property cannot be divided. $5,500/acre sold in entirety. $2,673,000

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C Commercial building with frontage on South Madison Street near the center of town sGreat Location with foot traffic and visibility s4 Large Display Windows s5 Rooms with high ceilings and more sOver 2,100 square feet sPerfect for retail or restaurant, zoned C2. $799,000

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O’BANNON ROAD - 50 mostly open and elevated acres with fantastic views to the south and to the east toward Great Meadow with several home sites on a quiet country road just outside of the quaint village of The Plains. Orange County Hunt Territory. $1,160,000

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CLIFTON LAND - 126.11 acres of mostly open, verdant land in great location, just north of Upperville with pastures and views of the Blue Ridge. Fully fenced, multiple home sites, tributary Pantherskin Creek.Ideal for easement potential and could benefit from excellent tax credits.Piedmont Hunt. $3,600,000

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Immaculate 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick house on 10 acres in The Plains, Virginia. New windows, insulation, kitchen.

Overlooking Morningside Training Farm, ideal for someone who has a horse or two, or who would love to see horses out their windows. Possible investment income. $425,000

ThoMAs AnD TAlBoT ReAl esTATe A STAUNCH ADVOCATE OF LAND EASEMENTS LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1967 (540) 687-6500 Middleburg, Virginia 20118

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Wiseman & Associates Financial Services, LTD, of Winchester has opened an office in the Noble House at 2 W. Washington St. in Middleburg. In a statement, company president Tom Wiseman said his firm was not trying to start a new business in town so much as to expand its existing business to the region. “While we have based our operations in Winchester for over 20 years, we have many existing clients throughout the area,” he said, noting the firm already manages the assets, estates, life insurance and family office needs of many residents in the Middleburg area. “Our new presence will allow us to better serve these clients,” he said. Wiseman cited studies showing that most clients say they are not happy with their current financial advisors and that often in terms of insurance coverage clients don’t realize what they have. “Last year, we were able to improve over 82 percent of the life insurance coverage we reviewed,” he said. Those who are happy with their current advisers should stay where they are, Wiseman said. If not, “they should consider getting a second opinion.” The family firm has specialized in wealth management services for individuals and their families in the Piedmont region for more than 25 years.

Those interested in steeping themselves in a day’s experience of the fine art of writing have until March 15 to register for the Hunt Country Writers’ Retreat, scheduled to be held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at the Parish House Gathering Room at 105 E. Washington St. Freelance editor and author of 19 published novels Mike Sirota will be the retreat presenter, along with Jeff Kleinman, founder of Folio Literary Management. Attendees will hear comments from a panel of Hunt Country authors, who will offer their views on the joys and challenges of publishing. The cost of the retreat is $300 and covers the workshop and lunch as well as a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, April 20, also at the Parish House Gathering Room. To register, contact Jan Neuharth at info@huntcountrysuspense.com or Genie Ford at genie@printmanagementinc.com. Second Chapter Books will offer titles for sale by the participating authors, as well as a 10 percent coupon for attendees to be used in the bookstore.

Middleburg Women invites the community to join its quarterly panel Wednesday, March 21. “Female Senior Executives’ Journey to the Top: How Was It?” will explore the journeys of three successful women familiar to many in the area: Hula Aksu, Kathleen Saylor and

March 2012 Middleburg Life

Cate Magennis Wyatt. Once per quarter the group deviates from its usual format in order to facilitate in-depth exploration of topics especially interesting to businesswomen. This impressive trio will discuss their rise to the top in each of their demanding professions. Aksu is an accomplished, award winning magazine publisher, filmmaker and entrepreneur. Her publications, I AM Modern and Modern D.C. Business magazines have garnered her national and international recognition and have become mainstay publications in the Metropolitan DC region. Aksu is the owner of CriticMania, a web and print publication that seeks to offer its clients professional surveys and analysis of their businesses. She is also the founder and owner of Pink and Shoosha Films, and is currently in the process of producing a full-length feature film, The American Lottery. Saylor was born and raised in Choteau, MT. In 1982, she graduated from Montana State University with a bachelor’s degree in speech communication.

In 1983, she graduated from West Virginia University with a master’s degree in speech communication and went on to earn her Ph.D. in communication and organizational development from the University of Maryland. In 1988 Saylor moved to Santiago, Chile, where she started her own company, an institute for language and communication education/training, which catered to the Chilean business community. In 1992, she returned to the DC area and worked as an adjunct professor in the communication department at George Mason University. In 1994, she joined REHAU, Inc. in its North American Headquarters in Leesburg as training and development specialist. REHAU is a global polymer processing company supplying products to the construction, automotive, and industrial sectors. In 1999, she was promoted to department manager, Human Resources; in 2000 she was promoted to director, Human Resources North America; and in 2001 she was promoted to vice president, Human Resources and member of the Management Board North America.

In February 2006, Saylor was promoted to CEO, REHAU North America. In this position, she maintains oversight responsibility for REHAU’s North American operations which include more than 1,500 employees in 15 sales offices, seven manufacturing facilities, and three distribution centers located throughout the US, Canada, Mexico and Central America, as well as REHAU’s North American Corporate Headquarters located in Leesburg. Magennis Wyatt is the founder and president of The Journey Through Hallowed

Students Raise $10K For Cancer Foundation

Foxcroft students pose happily with Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation Chairman James P. Atkins after they presented him with a large facsimile check for $10,000 during an all-school meeting in February. The students, seniors Alex Carr, Maeve Couzens and Charlotte Wright, were joined by Foundation Director Lori McGuiness and juniors Rebecca Mann and Elsie Spencer. Foundation Vice Chair Mary Jo Jackson was also along for the celebratory presentation.

The girls’ presentation was the culmination of a highly successful fund drive last fall for the Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation. According to Atkins, the students had set a goal of raising $5,000. Then they went out and doubled that figure. The girls raised the funds mostly through several events—the Foxcroft Think Pink Basketball Tournament in January and the school’s participation in Nanette’s Walk last fall—as well as through the generosity of an anonymous donor who admired the students’ efforts.

Atkins, chairman and founder of the foundation, praised the girls for “the incredible achievement.”

The CBBC foundation supports early detection, treatment and awareness of the disease in the local area as well as research to find an eventual cure. Atkins told the girls their donation was important to all the women of Loudoun and Fauquier counties, as well as to themselves and the women in their own families. “You all need to know your genetic history and be aware of the importance of taking care of your health,” he said.

The school is the largest single contributor to the foundation, Atkins said. Because of that contribution, McGuinness said the school contingent would have the honor leading Nanette’s Walk in September. Foxcroft traditionally has had the largest group in the 5K walk since its inception in 2007. Last year, more than 60 students, faculty and administrators who walked raised $3,750 for the cause, more than 10 percent of the walk’s total.

This January, during the Think Pink Basketball Tournament, organized by Foxcroft Athletic Director Michelle Woodruff and the student-run Foxcroft Athletic Association, 12 high- and middle-school teams participated. Through T-shirt sales, team entry fees, cash donations and considerable volunteer work, the event raised some $5,000. Tournament referees volunteered their time and one, Don Woodruff, solicited sponsors in the weeks leading up to the event. The rest of the donation came from sales of pink shoelaces and hair/horse braids.

Ground Partnership, a four state nonprofit corporation dedicated to sharing the heritage in the 180-mile corridor from Gettysburg, PA, to Monticello. Previously, Magennis Wyatt served in the public sector as the secretary of commerce and trade for the Commonwealth of Virginia within Governor Wilder’s Cabinet and in the private sector as president of Remington International, vice president of Xerox

Development and vice president of Weston Capital Corporation. She has specialized in developing strategic plans for troubled investments followed by directing the successful implementation of those strategies. In this capacity, she led the creation of businesses in London, Moscow and Kazakhstan. Magennis Wyatt serves or has served on many boards Continued On Page 29

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Middleburg Life March 2012

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Improving

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Consumer Confidence

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All-time Highs

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Cash Transactions

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Buy vs. Rent

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Elevated

(signals investment opportunity)

Improving Economics

The time to get into the real estate market is NOW!

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Paris - This fabulous custom home (built in 2004) sits on 11+ acres with beautiful Western views! 4+ bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, first floor master suite, additional teen/in-law/guest suite above 3-car garage. Gorgeous kitchen w/Silestone Quartz counters, two-story great room, huge unfinished walk-out basement. Backs to Appalachian Trail and 5 mins to the Shenandoah River. Additional land is available. $600,000 Joyce Gates 540.771.7544

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Aldie - Incredible opportunity to own a gorgeous well built country home on almost 7 rolling acres, conveniently located between Middleburg and Leesburg. 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, three levels with large walk-out lower level apartment, attached 2-car garage, plus a detached 2-car garage with upper level storage. Peaceful and private setting. Wildlife abounds! $576,800 Michele Stevens 703.568.0721

Upperville - Beautiful circa 1900 4BR/2.5BA historic/ turn-of-the-century home. Recent renovations incl stunning kitchen w/large maple topped island, 6burner Wolf Range and cherry custom cabinets.

Parlor w/wood burning fireplace. Bright porch gallery w/wet bar leads to terrace and large fenced yard. Carriage house offers studio/office potential.

Stunning views. http://tour.circlepix.com/GNRV7M $825,000 Danny Clarke 703.200.3708 ng

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Purcellville - NEW PRICE. Stately executive home on 12+ acres in prestigious equestrian community near Bluemont Vineyard. Five 2nd-floor bedrooms including stunning master suite. Interior boasts 10’ ceilings, 8’ doorways, built-in bookcases and large UV/ heat-treated windows. Located on quiet paved culde-sac with a backdrop of dramatic hardwoods and stone walls. Convenient all-paved commuter access. $1,175,000 Kimberly Hurst 703.932.9651

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Middleburg - Family compound or great investment opportunity. 12 acres with three renovated dwellings off of Foxcroft Road, only one mile from town.

A 3 bedroom stone cottage, a 2 bedroom stucco cottage with studio, and a shingled 2 bedroom cottage with garage. Possible to build another home on this property. This is a short sale requiring third party approval, and will be sold “as-is.” $700,000 Michele Stevens 703.568.0721

Paeonian Springs - Spectacular 17+ acre compound w/THREE distinguished residences! Main house with state-of-the-art kitchen, embassy sized dining room, 3000 bottle wine cellar, great room leading to patio and infinity pool, wrap-around screened porch.

Loggia connects 3-car garage to main house. Four level tower used as guest suite or pool cabana. Plus, a 2 bedroom, 2 bath cottage w/gourmet kitchen. $1,299,000 Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766

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HISTORIC WATERFORD - Stately all brick Colonial, 4 bedrooms plus bonus room, 3 fireplaces, ceramic and hardwood floors, fully finished walk-out lower level with In-law suite and 2nd kitchen, deck. Fabulous amenities for the equestrian including LARGE BARN with INDOOR ARENA and lighted riding ring.

15 acres, board fenced pastures in bucolic setting.

A rare find for the horse enthusiast! $995,000 Ron Resnick 703.309.9566

Leesburg’s River Creek - Unparalleled luxury overlooking the Potomac River on the Signature 15th Fairway! A 2-story family room with incredible views. Chef’s kitchen opens to casual dining. Library/guest suite with full BA. Lower level has theater, fitness & recreation room. Master suite fills an entire wing with river views off private deck. Wonderfully manicured gardens. Floor plans available. $1,325,000 Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766

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Broad Run - Spectacular estate in Fauquier Co., just east of The Plains, sits on 141+ acres w/breathtaking views of the mountains, rolling pastures, streams, 3 private ponds, and miles of ride-out. Preserved by Conservation Easements and enveloped in the “Historic District and Protected View Shed”. Home built in 2006, separate office/studio, barn, stable, chicken coop, machine shed, garden. 4 miles to I-66. $2,890,000 Ngoc Do 703.798.2899

Middleburg - Beautiful bright four level Georgian end unit townhouse with wonderful floor plan. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, new stainless steel appliances, sunken living room, hardwood floors, marble fireplace, lovely intricate crown moldings, plantation shutters. Gardens, brick walk way, stone wall and beautiful private brick patio. www.tour.circlepix.com/437nvm $539,900 Kathleen Chovnick 703.340.5716

Purcellville - Make an offer! This marvelous custom stone and stucco contemporary home has incredible views of the Potomac River and the Blue Ridge Mountains, backing up to Harpers Ferry Historic Park. Three finished levels, great room with stone fireplace, beautiful wood floors, family room with vaulted ceilings and built in bookcases. Very private setting.

Also offered for rent at $2500/month. $529,000 Amy Adams 703.851.2051

Philomont - A beautiful classic Sears farmhouse on ten acres conveniently situated between Middleburg and Purcellville. Four bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms, wood floors. Gracious wrap-around porch. Horse facilities include large paddocks, stable with three 12’ x 12’ stalls and heated tack room. A genuine Loudoun County treasure, and a truly rare find at this price.

Homes4HorseLovers.com 525,000 Kimberly Hurst 703.932.9651

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Virginia Point-to-Point Season Underway

Gold Cup Runs May 5

The Virginia Gold Cup, one of the nation’s largest steeplechase races, celebrates its 87th anniversary Saturday, May 5.

Approximately 50,000 people will gather at Great Meadow in The Plains to socialize and watch some of the finest horses in the world compete over the lush green course. Held every year on the first Saturday in May—the same day as the Kentucky Derby—the Virginia Gold Cup race day features six hurdle and timber horse races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tent, tailgate and hat contests and more than 30 vendor booths for shopping.

Gates will open at 10 a.m. with pre-race entertainment starting at 11:15 a.m.

General admission car passes are $85, allowing for entry of a car and up to six occupants. Great Meadow is located at 5089 Old Tavern Road in The Plains.

For more information, call 540-3472612 or visit www.vagoldcup.com.

By Lauren R. Giannini For Middleburg Life And they’re off!

The 2012 Virginia Point-to-point season got off to a flying start with Casanova leading the way for the Hunter Pace series Feb. 26 at Acorn Hill Farm. It was a field day for local enthusiasts. [See photos, Page 28] Allegra Solari and Lorenzo Solari, who hunt with Warrenton Hunt and Snickersville Hounds, won the junior division of the Mt. Sterling optimum time over fences.

Woods Winants (Snickersville) scored a one-two finish in the Weston Open (optimum time over fences): riding Swimming River he partnered with Alex Bazdar (Snickersville) and Orlik for the win, then turned around and went ‘round again aboard Hay Doctor: then teamed up with Piedmont Foxhounds’ Mary Motion and Woodmont to harvest second place and the red rosette.

The launch of the ‘chasing season March 3 couldn’t have been more fun with the friendly hospitality of the good folks at Thornton Hill FT Valley in Sperryville.

With Mother Nature on an elemental rampage across most of the nation, Friday’s

rain that threatened the weekend’s sporting activities actually stopped before dawn. By late morning, the sun was shining and the temps soared to a balmy 60, adding to the festive atmosphere. [See photos, Page 24] Jockey Jeff Murphy, proud father of a new son with his wife Aoife Brazil, scored a hat trick at THFVH with three wins. In the Dorothy Smithwick Memorial Maiden Hurdle Murphy piloted Rockmani, trained

by Charlie McCann, to victory for Celtic Venture, a syndicate of ladies passionate about steeplechasing.

Murphy’s next win took place with Orebanks, owned by Beverly R. Steinman and trained by Doug Fout, in the Islandia Open Hurdle.

Murphy’s scored his hat trick and Fout earned his second win of the day in the first division of the James W. Fletcher Memorial Novice Timber when Magalen O. Bryant’s Dealer Beware proving best in the field of five.

Randy Rouse, Master of Fairfax Hunt, offered proof that an active life promotes longevity, running a couple of horses for a win and show: Carl Rafter and Great Britain

led the charge across the finish line in the Maiden Flat. In the Novice Timber (first division) Rafter and High Score finished third.

Thornton Hill FT Valley’s Hunter Pace had a rather windy, chilly day, but that didn’t dampen any spirits.

THFVH whipper-in Kat Gray whose Agape Veterinary practice is based in The Plains partnered with Patty Reiff to win the adult Optimum Time over fences. The Solari kids scored another Junior Optimum Time over fences, earning more bragging rights for Warrenton and Snickersville.

Rosie Campbell, MFH Bull Run Hunt, and Summers Olinger, teamed up to win the first Fast Time contest of the season, but because only pre-entries count for year-end awards, the winner’s points were awarded to second-placed Simon Hobson (Round Hill) and Elidh Grant, Fairfax Hunt.

Racing action continues every weekend through May: for calendar, results, standings and more, visit www.centralentryoffice.com.

gRanD oPening M a RC h 2 0 1 2

D e c o r at e D M o D e l

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$900’s-$1.8

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• New Luxury Townhomes in an Immaculately Styled Community • Just Minutes from Georgetown and the Potomac with Easy Access to Virginia via the Key Bridge • Community Architecture all in Harmony with Historic Palisades and Georgetown • Lush Landscaping, a Central Courtyard, and Easy Access to the Neighborhood • Pre-Construction Sales Available

Prices, amenities, designs, measurements, and features are all subject to change without notice. Please see a sales director for more details.

Contact Sales Director Matt Cheney at 888.597.2452 to Schedule Your Personal Tour

FoxhallRidgeTowns.com/Life

21

Middleburg Life March 2012

Meadowkirk Inn & Retreat

Patrickswell

Pohick Farm

Middleburg, Virginia • $16,000,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $7,500,000

Delaplane, Virginia • $4,850,000

358 acres • 8 BR Manor house • 6 FP • Heart of pine floors • 10’ ceilings • Inn w/20 rooms all w/private baths • Conference room • Stone barn can accommodate 120 guests • 3 cottages • Log cabin • Pool & pool house • Observatory • Picnic pavilion • 2 miles of Goose Creek frontage Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

164 acres in Orange County Hunt • Main house of stone construction • 4 bedrooms plus an in-law suite • Pool • Tennis court • 20 stall center aisle stable • Farm office • 1/16 mile indoor track • Guest house • Also available on 264 acres for $10,500,000 Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

265 acres with postcard valley views • 4 bedroom home • Pool • Pool house • Rental house • 3 creeks • 1 pond • Great for horses, cattle or vineyard • Also available on 464 acres for $6,850,00 Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Longview Lane

Fox Valley Farm

Mistral

Delaplane, Virginia • $4,750,000

Marshall, Virginia • $1,950,000

Upperville, Virginia • $1,950,000

Circa 1889 manor home • Completely redesigned and reconstructed • Exposed beams, solid mahogany doors and windows • Antique fireplaces • Reclaimed choice hardwoods and limestone foyer • Incomparable views • 15 manicured acres Ann MacMahon (540) 687-5588

Historic property on 32 acres in Orange County Hunt • 1st floor master, den, grand salon, English kitchen with large DR & billiard room • 2nd kitchen/ bar leads to patio, pool & guest cottage • 7 stall barn adjoins 3 BR, 2 BA farm manager's house Ann MacMahon (540) 687-5588 Walter Woodson (703) 499-4961

28 acres • First floor living includes master suite with office • Large formal living room • Mature gardens • Pond • 3 additional bedrooms • Great views • Tree lined driveway Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

1780 Quaker Barn

Canongate

Conde Road

Philomont, Virginia • $1,495,000

Leesburg, Virginia • $730,900

Marshall, Virginia • $697,000

Completely restored and updated • 4/5 BR, 3 1/2 BA, 3 FP • Vaulted ceilings expose 40’ hand hewn beams and original barn timbers • Lower level reveals chestnut log beams, fieldstone walls, flagstone floors • Pool, terrace, outdoor FP Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Circa 1760's stone farm house on 6.45 acres • Beautiful wood floors, 4 wood burning fireplaces, country kitchen with granite countertops, bathrooms all updated • Fenced paddocks, two stables and a machine shed Margaret Carroll (540) 454-0650

HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! • 8 acres near Warrenton • First floor master • Stately pool • 2 additional private guest suites • 4 fireplaces • 3 car garage • Located in Warrenton Hunt Territory Walter Woodson (703) 499-4961

Stonewall Avenue

Historic House in Paris Paris, Virginia • $485,000

Middleburg, Virginia • $395,000

2600 sf office building • 3 tiered levels • Exceptional natural light • Accommodates 5 offices • Large production areas • Full kitchen • Ample parking • Great views Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Circa 1890 • Unobstructed views of the protected Paris Valley • 3 BR • Additional 2 BR in-law suite w/second kitchen • Detached garage • Unlimited possibilities Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930 Walter Woodson (703) 499-4961

Excellent location • 2 bedrooms • Fireplace • Hardwood floors • Fabulous views • 7.12 mostly wooded acres • Great rehab potential Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Middleburg, Virginia • $650,000

110 East Washington Street • P.O. Box 1380 Middleburg, Virginia 20118 (540) 687-5588

Mrs. Beaver’s Cottage

www.sheridanmacmahon.com info@sheridanmacmahon.com

22

March 2012 Middleburg Life

The Best is Yet to Come!

OK, I admit that aging is not easy. All of a sudden or so it seems your hair starts losing its color and gray starts showing through. Now I am not speaking of one or two gray hairs, but way too many to pull. Little lines start appearing on ones face. If that was not enough to raise an all-out panic, reading glasses give new meaning to the words close up. While it seems this is all happening suddenly, the truth is it is just part of the process of life. There are plenty of remedies for hair a n d taking care of the lines if one chooses. Anti-aging are the new buzzwords that have new potions and lotions that promise to restore the eluding youth. It does make one wonder if embracing aging would show the best is yet to come.

There are many wonderful things about aging that can only come to be with more than a few decades under your belt. For instance the wisdom you gain from going through life’s many ups and downs is priceless. Pleasure in seeing the fine young men and women your children are turning into.

Maybe being lucky enough to have grandchildren and being the coolest grandparent ever.

Taking the time to enjoy and smell the roses.

KAY COLGAN

SUMMER RENTAL

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Available June, July, August & September Taking Reservations for 2012 NOW

Additional pictures & info available — call 540-253-5545 www.VRBO.com - #201318

Healthy Living

Exercising, because you understand it is good for your health, not just for a svelte body.

Enjoying good friends for who they are, not what they can do for you. Being interested in eating a nutritionally sound diet that increases your energy not depletes it. Not falling for gimmicks, but taking the time to take care of you. Trying all the new fruits and vegetables you always wanted to try. Have the wisdom to be more tolerant of yourself and others.

Patience and a willingness to listen, really listen. Always open to learn new things and to share that knowledge with others. Feeling connected to the earth and all living things.

Immersing yourself in a good book and enjoy it. Being able to laugh at yourself and for once be at peace. Taking the time to enjoy a really good cup of coffee with someone you love.

Embracing aging opens up a realm of possibilities. Struggling with aging and coveting youth has the potential to leave you sad and stuck. On the other hand, start enjoying who you are right now and what lies ahead.

Be a part of life not just a bystander because the best is yet to come. What will your chapter look like?

[For more information about health and fitness, contact Kay Colgan, at K’s Pilates and Personal Training, 14 S. Madison Street, Middleburg, Virginia or call 540-687-6995.]

No matter what the roadmap is for your business, Middleburg Life will help you navigate

Ad Deadline Friday, March 23, 2012 Publication Monday, April 2, 2012 PHOTO BY CINDY PEARSON

Call Susan Styer 571-333-1540

or email sstyer@acnpapers.com

The Byrne Gallery’s next show “Champagne and Flowers” will celebrate spring with a special exhibition of jewelry by seven distinctive designers: Patricia Aguirre, Pamela Mickley Albers, Paula Bannerman, Leslie Barbrow, Shauna Dove Lupton, Diana Papazian and Grazia Zalfa.

Their collections will feature a wide selection of unique jewelry designs and one of-a-kind creations to fit every taste and style. The exhibition will also include floral oil paintings and watercolors by three renowned artists: Carolyn Grosse Gawarecki, Barbara Borck Hart and Jim Rodgers. The Byrne Gallery is located at 7 W. Washington St. in Middleburg, where a special reception will be held from 3-6 p.m. Saturday, March 24. The jewelry show will open that Saturday and will continue through the spring. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday and from noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Contact the Byrne Gallery for more information at (540) 687-6986.

23

Middleburg Life March 2012

Reinvent Your Home

A home is just a place that provides shelter, right? Wrong! Your home is sacred space. Your home can hold you, make you feel comfortable and safe: it will nurture and inspire you. Your home longs to be a place of joy and laughter, of passion and peace. Moreover, your home is as unique as you are. It’s spring, the season of creation. It’s the time for the birds and the bees, a time of hope. You can bring all of these qualities into your home.

Step One: Setting the intention for your house.

Before you begin clearing, cleaning, fixing and doing, you need to sit down with a journal or notepad. What qualities do you want filling your house? Safety?

Peace? Joyful chaos? Warmth? Hope? Creativity? What brings you comfort: a more

Cindy Battino Healing Science

lived in and bit disheveled look or one that is perfectly tidy with everything in its place? If your house is your safe and nurturing place, how do you want to be treated here? How will you treat others?

Who will you let into your “inner sanctum” and who will be kept out? Based on these questions, what are your house rules?

You might want to have a family meeting to discuss them. You might want to make a sign for the kitchen. This is an essential first step in reinventing your home.

Step Two: De-clutter.

It is time to organize and re-organize.

Out with the old and out with the new.

That’s right: out with the new. You can’t have sacred space clutter-filled. When in doubt, throw it out. Uh-oh. Wait. Breathe.

Does the very thought of de-cluttering your home make your heart race? Let’s take small steps. You don’t have to do the whole house at once and you don’t have to do it alone. Do one room at a time. If you hate to throw out things, bring in a friend who loves to purge. They will help you to get rid of what you no longer need. Your partner can help. Your family can help.

You can even hire a professional organizer, but you’d be surprised what an “orderly” friend can accomplish with your clutter.

Take your “good” clutter to a thrift store.

Take paper, old magazines etc. to the “flat recyclables” at your local recycle center.

Hold a yard sale: your clutter and jump might be someone else’s treasure.

Step Three: Bring in plants.

Plants are a wonderful way to bring the outdoors in and introduce “live” energy into your home. Don’t go overboard as they can be expensive and will require work to keep them alive. Flowering plants, colorful plants, hardy plants—placed strategically in your house can bring warmth and aliveness to any room.

Step Four: Bring in the light Get rid of heavy drapes. Open your shutters and blinds. Let the light shine in.

Nothing feels better than having a light filled house. Maybe you need to re-paint and put up some sheer curtains that will keep your privacy but let the sunshine pour into your home….

Step Four: What does your house smell like?

Is that a bizarre question? Your sense of smell is the most powerful sense you have.

A certain odor can bring back memories from 30-50 years ago. We have smells we love and those that stink. Which aromas make you feel good? The beach? Flowers? The forest? Strategically place scents (oils, candles, plug ins) throughout your house for a mild and pleasant affect. You might have to go a bit farther, however.

If you have animals, the dogs might need a bath or the cat litter box might need to be cleaned and moved to a different location. You might need to clean the carpets or air out the kitchen. If you can’t tell how your house smells, ask a friend to come over. They’ll tell you. Personally, I have scents for different rooms and the seasons inspire different fragrances. I like citrus in the bathrooms. During the winter months I love starting my crockpot before I leave for work. Nothing says home to me like a kitchen filled with the aroma of delicious food.

Have fun reinventing your home in 2012. It doesn’t have to cost much, if anything. It will take time and energy—and the final product will be a home that reflects the best parts of yourself and your family.

[Cindy Battino is a Brennan Healing Science practitioner who operates Transformational Healing at 2 S. Hamilton St. in Middleburg. You can find out more online at www.transform-heal.com, or call her at 703-966-7620.]

Improving Your Relationships According to John Gottman, relationships expert who has compiled and tested decades of research on the topic, “stable relationships have a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions.” Exactly how do you increase positivity in your relationships, intimate, work and otherwise? Here are a few effective tools for improving all kinds of relationships: “Soften Your Startup”—During times of conflict, you can find ways to soften your entrance into the conversation. For example, “Honey, I hear that you are mad and I really want to unders t a n d what you are saying.

Can we take a breath and meet in the living room in 10 minutes so I can give you my full attention?” Or you can be very transparent and name exactly what’s going on, for example if you lead a team at work you might say, “Folks, today we have a challenging topic on the table to deal with. I know that it’s going to be difficult for all of us to see eye to eye but I’d like us to start by trying to leave judgment and blame at the door. We are all on the same team.”

You might consider offering what Gottman calls a “repair bid”—the symbolic olive branch that allows your partner to feel that you are interested in connecting with them even if you currently find yourselves in conflict. That might be as simple as putting your hand on theirs or sitting closer to them, or finding something (genuine!) to thank them for that was meaningful to you in the last 48 hours, even if it has nothing to do with

KIM TAPPER

Life Coaching

the conflict at hand. The result is that is softens the current moment and allows you to respect and hear each other.

Another way to improve your relationships is to own your responsibility for the “toxins” you are bringing into them.

Gottman refers to what he calls the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” that will send all conflict (and ultimately all relationships) spiraling into more conflict if they cannot be released. The Four Horsemen are: blame, defensiveness, contempt and stonewalling.

Contempt is the worst and most toxic to any relationship—a deal breaker for it is hostile and alienating. Blaming just breeds more blame and engages you and your partner or team in a very stale and static dance that goes nowhere. Defensiveness just defends the status quo and does not allow you to hear the other person or to make forward movement. And stonewalling is passive behavior that does not allow you to be open to the other people you are engaged with. Notice for yourself which of these you tend to bring into your conflicts and how it shuts down your relationships rather than opens them up to growth and deeper connection.

Relationships are the cornerstone of our interaction with the world and with how we relate to ourselves. We all seek to be in relationships that are positive and we can do a lot to create them for ourselves! For further reading on couples: John Gottman “The Relationship Cure”; “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.” For teams: “Positive Affect and the Complex Dynamics of Human Flourishing” by Fredrickson and Losada, in American Psychologist.

[Kim Tapper, ACC, CPCC. For more information, go online to www.kimtappercoaching. com]

Middleburg Museum is Coming!

We Need Your Help!

Museum ad • Committee Members • Documents, Artifacts, • Volunteers for Special Projects

Photos, Etc. • Event Volunteers, Etc.

Debut Event April 20th ~ 5 to 8 pm contact Ms. Lewis 540-687-6538 Middleburg Town Office 540-687-5152

24

£ March 2012 Middleburg Life

Open Hurdle race left to right: Oreganks(Jeff Murphy, up)--1st; Old timer(Chris Read, up)-2nd; You and I(Jacob Roberts, up)--3rd

Photo by Lauren Giannini

Trainer Doug Fout explains something to Jeff Murphy before the start of the Maiden Flat where they finished 3rd with Betsy B. Mead’s Swell Party.

Thornton Hill Photos by Douglas Lees unless otherwise indicated

Photo by Lauren Giannini

Chris Read won the second division of the Novice timber race on Larry levy’s Bazoo.

Doug Fout with the first of two winners on the day: Orebanks, ridden by Jeff Murphy won the Open Hurdle race.

Photo by Lauren Giannini

Annie Yaeger, event rider who moved from MInnesota to The Plains to ride with Karen and David O’Connor, started galloping for trainer Don Yovanovic and made her racing debut at Thonton Hill FT Valley with a win in the amateur/ novice hurdle on her horse Mischief and a disqualification for going off course in the ladies timber.

Randy Rouse, MFH Fairfax, and Carl Rafter before Great Britain won the Maiden Flat.

Hound Race at the Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Pt. to Pt. races. Winning hound: Rogers Gibson’s Big Boy

Novice Timber First Division left to right: Nondo; High Score--3rd; Dealer Beware(Jeff Murphy, up)--1st; Patriotic Passion(Chris Read, up)--4th; Dance Faster(Paddy Young, up)--2nd.

Twin Kiss gets a hug from rider Kellie Witte (above) after winning the Junior Horse Field Masters Chase (at left) at the Thornton Hill Point to Point March 3.

£

25

Middleburg Life March 2012

Photos by Richard Clay

Alegra Solari on Black Ice (above left) paired with Lorenzo Solari on Ruby (above right) to win the Junior Optimum Time event. The pair also won the same event a week prior at the Casanova Hunter Pace. Alegra and Lorenzo were representing the Snickersville Hounds. The pair also won the same event last week at the Casanova Hunter Pace.

Annie Yeager wins Amateur/ Novice Hurdle Race on her Mischief. Mischief is trained

by Don Yovanovich.

And They’re Off in the Hound race at the Thornton Hill Fort Valley Pt. to Pt. Races. The winner was #17--Rogers Gibson’s Big Boy.

Maiden Flat Race Finish left to right: Great Britain(Carl Rafter, up)--1st; Swell Party(Jeff Murphy, up)--2nd; Jeffery G.(Eric Poretz, up)--3rd; Saguaro Moon(Paddy Young, up)--5th.

Hound race presentation left to right: Beth and Erwin Opitz, #17 Big Boy with owner Rogers Gibson, Elida Opitz and Hannah Bever.

Virginia Coulter (far left) presents the trophy for Rockman’s maiden hurdle win to the Celtic Venture team (l-r): Diane Ingoe, Mary Munster, Jeff Murphy, Pat McCann, Jackie Fleming, trainer Charlie McCann, Miriam Anver.

Photo by Lauren Giannini

26

March 2012 Middleburg Life

We Made It: Spring Is Here Ahhh, the rites of spring: how do you celebrate? We love following the Virginia Pointto-point circuit. Thornton Hill FT Valley ran its first ever PTP March 3, and we got out for the March 4 hunter pace, paired up with Brandy McDonald and two field hunters from The Fine Equine Stables. When the clocks spring forward, we’re not keen about losing an hour’s sleep, but it will be lovely to have more daylight. Lots happening, lots going on…

News Bits

Denice Perry, trainer for Skyland Farm, reported that her niece (and protégée) Danielle DeRisio harvested the Small/Medium Children’s Pony Hunter championship in week three of Winter Equestrian Festival (FL), riding Clanfair Madison Avenue, owned

by Leslie Butzer of Ponies and Palms Farm of Boca Raton (FL). “Winning Champion

LAUREN R. GIANNINI

Horsing Around in such a big show such as WEF was such a big accomplishment because of how hard the judges score and because of how well the riders ride,” Danielle said. “And it is one of the largest divisions at the show.”

Danielle’s parents chimed in: “We were so happy for her and so proud. Danielle has worked hard with her aunt Denice, and she is very fortunate to have the opportunity to ride and show this WEF season with Ponies and Palms. We also thank Ponies and Palms resident trainer Samantha Blumenthal.”

For results, go online to: http://showgroundslive.com/esp.

Middleburg Humane Foundation has several events on its calendar and we wanted to remind everyone to get out and support their on-going efforts to rescue and find great adoptive “second chance” homes for the animals. Check out MHF’s wine tasting starting at noon March 31 at the Aldie Pedlar: great wines at cheerful prices, Wally is a wonderful and congenial host, and you’ll be supporting a great local animal welfare organization that makes a difference.

There also is an adoption event planned from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. March 31 at PetSmart in Gainesville. Fauquier Paws On The Path happens from 4:30-7:30 p.m. April 28, offer-

The spring racing season is under way and action continues every weekend through May. For calendar, results, standings and more, go online to: www.centralentryoffice.com.

Photo by Lauren R Giannini

ing a great walk on the two-mile loop of the Northern Fauquier Community Park, treats for your dogs and a training demonstration in the amphitheatre. Meeting for volunteers is planned for 10 a.m. to noon May 5 at the new farm shelter property. For information, go online to: http://middleburghumane.org.

Head’s up! artists and art lovers: You might want to get involved in the “conversation” that started this winter in Middleburg.

On Feb. 23, 20 people gathered at Country Way for a social evening with a purpose. Cohosts Amy Potter (Country Way), Lisa Capraro (Betsey) and Peter Wood, a local metal sculptor, wanted to find out from local artists and others interested in the arts what they might want in the way of an active group that would support all the arts, visual and performing, with the goal being to make Middleburg an arts destination. Considering the roster of artists and musicians, galleries and antique shops in the area, this should become an ongoing project of cooperative creativity. For information about the next gathering, contact Peter Wood: (540) 454-9119 or stop in at the Betsey and Country Way next time you’re in Middleburg.

of non-structural carbohydrates. Dr. Getty also recommends psyllium fiber (1/3 cup per meal), because recent research shows that it helps to lower blood glucose in horses.

The fiber allegedly slows glucose absorption and thus reduces insulin output from the pancreas.

We’re not about to stop giving our Connemara a supplement called HEIRO, created by a vet in Pennsylvania, but we’re certainly willing to try psyllium fiber, because we know firsthand that it is extremely beneficial to the entire digestive tract and encourages elimination. Before experimenting with your horse or pony’s nutrition, check with your vet – better safe than sorry!

For more information, go online to: www.gettyequinenutrition.com

Virtual Show World

What will high tech concoct next? Now

you can show online by entering videos of you and your horse or pony. At horseshow.com you can even win money with this relatively new and very revolutionary online horse show site. It launched last year and in February partnered with Horse Show Ventures to offer a new series of online hunter shows. It’s pretty simple: riders of all ages and abilities from anywhere in the world can submit a video of a recent round (from any live show or from a training session) to receive feedback from Beth Nielsen, a USEF “R” judge with more than 30 years of experience.

You can compete in hunters, dressage and even Best Arab Costume or Best Breed. Prizes range from gift certificates to cash awards; entry fees cost $25 per hunter or equitation class, and there were several classes that are free. This could be a good learning experience, but it also provides trainers and riders with yet another tool to evaluate whether they’re

Easy Keepers

Considering the mild winter, what are you doing about your easy keepers? Grass has such high sugar and most equines will eat themselves into a state of founder or colic if left too long on rich pasture. Grazing muzzles can help, so can a dry lot or “fat paddock” where little grass grows, but you’ll have to feed hay.

According to Dr. Juliet Getty, who specializes in equine nutrition, the first approach is to eliminate starchy cereal grains, molasses, and sugary treats from an easy keeper’s diet.

It also helps to test hay for low levels

V Productions is a global event planning by Virginia Fout, who grew up in the Middleburg area and stays connected with her hometown. Fout has masterminded all the preparations over the past eight years for Elton John’s annual Academy Awards Viewing Party. From the looks of this magical tent kingdom occupying West Hollywood Park, CA, the 20th annual mega-bash to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation was a stellar and spectacular success: A record 910 guests attended the benefit which raised more than $5 million.

Photo Courtesy of V Productions

27

Middleburg Life March 2012 “ready” to put it all together at a real show. It’s an interesting site to explore, and Horse Show Ventures Winter Warm-up hunter and equitation classes are open until March 18—the top two riders in each class receive Dover Saddlery gift certificates worth $350 and $150, and the trainer of each winner gets $150. It’s another one of those win-win situations with fence heights ranging from 2’6” to 3-feet and several flat classes, to boot.

Retired Racehorse Trainer Challenge

The Retired Racehorse Trainer Challenge held its grand finale Feb. 26 at the Pennsylvania Horse World Expo where it was SRO (standing room only). Judges included Upperville horseman Jimmy Wofford who’ll be the first to tell you that he prefers Thoroughbred or TB-type horses, especially for

of how willing they are and what a great work ethic they have from the track. They thrived on attention and turned into pets in the barn as well.”

High Level is staying with Catledge for more training. His owner has him for sale.

Catledge thinks the horse will make “a lovely show hunter, but he’s brave enough to do eventing and fancy enough to do well in the dressage.”

As for advice to anyone thinking about adopting a retired racehorse, Catledge said: “I would advise someone getting a horse off the track to invest in some training and lessons right from the start to get off to a good start with their new partner. If you can get started with making sure you establish good ground manners and a confident start together undersaddle you will be able to build a wonderful relationship with your OTTB.”

Tiffany Catledge and High Level, the horse who came from behind in the Retired Racehorse Trainer Challenge to put in a good showing at the finale. High Level spent several weeks recuperating from an abscess in his hoof, but his sensible attitude and willingness to train took him to the Pennsylvania Horse World Expo on Feb. 26. He’s back in Middleburg, in training and for sale.

Photo by Lauren R Giannini

eventing.

Eric Dierks (NC) won with Brazilian Wedding. However, Tiffany Catledge of Middleburg (see story in February Middleburg Life) was pleased with both of the two horses she trained over the five weeks: Solidify (Mid-Atlantic Horse Rescue) and High Level (James Falk).

“I thought the challenge was great,” recapped Catledge. “There were 3,000 people that attended the finale and the support and interest online was awesome. I know how incredible OTTBs (Off the Track Thoroughbreds) are but the challenge just reminded me

As for her partnership with High Level, he had an abscess for the first three weeks in Catledge’s care, so he really only got two weeks of training. All the same, she calls him her ‘little buddy.’

RRTP founder Steuart Pittman (Dodon Farm, Davidsonville, MD) said: “All three of these trainers set a very high bar for the rest of us to aspire to in our work with horses off the track. They shared their methods and proved their skills. The horses themselves, however, were the stars of the show. They proved beyond any doubt that Thoroughbreds are well prepared for second careers when they

come off the track, and that there are no limits to what they can do and learn. It was an extraordinary demonstration.”

The Retired Racehorse Training Project has planned a second Trainer Challenge. It will be open to both amateurs and professionals and take place over a three-month period, with a public event in Kentucky on the after-

noon and evening after cross country at the Rolex Kentucky CCI**** at the end of April.

For more information: www.retiredracehorsetraining.org.

OK, that’s it for now. Think spring and remember to stop and smell the blossoms.

Have fun horsing around and see you at the races!

Equine Eco Green: A New Spin On Manure Management

By Lauren R. Giannini For Middleburg Life There’s no denying that eyebrows climbed foreheads, when Virginia horseman Snowden Clarke said, “You are not going to believe this incredible solution to horse manure management—it’s called Equine Eco Green.”

Yes, it boggles the mind. The U.S. horse industry figures the total number of horses at about 9.2 million and then face the incontrovertible fact that one half-ton equid produces roughly 9 tons of manure each year. Here’s the math: the equine population in the USA results in 173 billion pounds of manure per annum.

That’s a lot of horse doody.

Even if everyone composted, the horse industry would still have a waste management problem, because it isn’t feasible or practical to compost it all. Someone was thinking outside the box—the box stall, that is—and if success resides in simplicity, then Shelly Townsend’s Complete Equine Waste Solution borders on genius. Her patents for Equine Eco Green are pending, the formulas are in place, and equine waste awaits in epicenters of equestrian activity across the nation, but most specifically in Wellington, FL, where the sunshine circuit attracts thousands of horses every season.

The numbers from Townsend’s demographic study indicate that 3,000 horses will produce per month at least 2,700,000 pounds of manure and use 48,000 bags of wood shavings, which are made from trees. In this age of going green and saving the planet, why not recycle and re-use? She used to work in interior design and started thinking laterally: that wood can be considered a textile.

“We wash our clothes, so why can’t we wash the bedding? I had to figure out the formulas and the details of the process and my patents are pending,” Townsend said. “The first time I did it, it worked. From there it was a matter of testing it and making it even better.”

The idea of re-using and recycling soiled horse bedding is novel, to say the least, but there is no doubt that it will save trees, reduce phenols that can cause skin allergies and respiratory compromise in both humans and horses, as well as the important issues of saving time and money. The shavings can

be processed and re-sold five to seven times before they become the fuel for the dryer.

Some shavings are diverted early in the cleaning process to be made into briquettes and fuel pellets that are sold to burn in fireplaces and woodstoves. The extracted manure is turned into organic fertilizer.

“With Equine Eco Green, there is no waste,” Townsend said. “Even in the briquette stage, the product is not smelling bad. It is not like raw sewage. I’ve tested it. I know what this process can do for waste management in the horse world. It’s stupid to throw away the by-products that can be made out of soiled horse bedding and manure. This is the responsible way to be.”

The applications and the idea that 42 regional plants can be sustained by the Equine Eco Green Solution still boggles the mind. If you’re a horse person, you know what your manure pile does to the ground when there’s a lot of rain: the wet runs out of the bedding and pools in stagnating puddles; if there’s any slope it runs down and will at some point contaminate a source of water. Eventually the moisture gets re-absorbed, but not without great risk to water sources.

“South Florida is a very good place to have a model plant,” says Townsend. “I have the patents pending for processing used straw bedding and all cellulose material. Eventually a plant would serve breeding farms and racetracks that bed only on straw, but for now I’m going after a model plant in Florida. It’s a matter of sticking with one thing and doing it well. Wellington is where I want to show that Equine Eco Green works.”

The Townsend’s Eco Green process meets a lot of business criteria in an ethical way. It permits removal of horse waste at a discount and then turns the waste into profitable products at a discount to current prices as soil amendments, logs/fuel pellets and recycled bedding. Equine Eco Green puts a new spin on the concept of barn laundry. It also reduces the carbon footprint, lowers deforestation and it answers the call for more awareness and stewardship toward the environment. Plus, it will save consumers money and turn profits for investors.

For more information, go online to: http://equineecogreen.com.

28

Casanova

March 2012 Middleburg Life

(Top Left), Woods Winants on Swimming River clears the final jump at the Casanova Hunter pace to win the Open Hunter Pace Event. He was representing the Snickersville Hounds and paired with Alex Bazdar on Orlik.

Casanova H U N T E R PAC E

(Top Right), Woods Winants on Hey Doctor leads Mary Motion on Woodmont over the final jump at the Casanova Hunter Pace. The pair, representing the Snickersville Hounds and Piedmont Hunt, placed second in the Open Hunter Pace Event.

(Middle), Alex Bazdar on Orlik clears the final jump in the Casanova Hunter Pace to win the Open Hunter Pace Event. Alex was representing the Snickersville Hounds and paired with Woods Winants on Swimming River.

(Bottom Left), Eilidh Grant on Mr. Gretsky paired with Simon Hobson on Company Man to win the Fast Time event. Eilidh was representing Fairfax Hunt.

(Bottom right), Alegra Solari on Black ice leads Lorenzo Solari on Ruby over the final jump in the Casanova Hunter Pace. The pair, representing the Snickersville Hounds and Warrenton Hunt won the Junior Optimum Time Event Over Fences.

Photos by Richard Clay

29

Middleburg Life March 2012

Over The Paddock Fence Continued From Page 18

including: George Mason University, Board of Visitors; the University of Richmond Board of Trustees; the George C. Marshall International Center; The Center for Innovative Technology; the Waterford Foundation; Oatlands Plantation; The Women’s Center; Wolf Trap National Performing Arts Center; The British American Project; the Colonial Board George Washington University; and Waterford Elementary School PTO. In order to give the experts and audience the time to explore topics raised during the event, Middleburg Women has expanded the time of its normal luncheon. The March 21 event schedule is as follows: 10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m.: networking; 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.: panel discussion; 12:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m.: lunch and door prize raffle. For more information or to register for the seminar, visit www.middleburgwomen. com.

Author Brad Isham has released a new novel that takes a fresh and distinctive look at Africa. The Sound of the String creates a spiritual connection to the land, people and wildlife of Africa. Isham’s experiences in South Africa are the inspiration for the novel that shares the challenges of a remote bush camp and the treachery of life in the bushveld. With a duffle bag and a handmade longbow, protagonist Gordon Bradford travels to Africa with an open mind and heart. His first safari leads to more as his spiritual connection with the land, people and wildlife evolves. He discovers ethereal connections with the animals he pursues and learns from their perspectives the balance of the bushveld, for both predator and prey. Gordon is mentored by the sage wisdom of Moses, an elderly black man whose early years were spent in racially torn South Africa.

He shares in the lives of the people in a remote bush camp and helps as they defend themselves from baboons, poachers and an angry mob from a neighboring village that attacks the camp. His friendship builds with his guide and professional hunter, Lucas, while finding he is falling in love with Lucas’ wife, Lise.

Sabotage and subterfuge between Gordon and Lucas is hidden behind their professional and personal relationships as they attempt their most dangerous hunt together for Cape buffalo. During the hunt there is a touching story of the last days of Dagga Boy, an old Cape buffalo, as he is cast from his herd. He travels only with his guardian, Askari, and passes his life’s lessons to the young bull as they navigate the dangers of the bushveld to find water and stay alive. The buffalo and hunters find themselves at the same water hole for a thrilling end which leaves one of them dead, one desperately alone and the others spinning in clouds of their own conspiracy. The Sound of the String captures the setting and appeals to the

senses. It summons the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touch of Africa. It brings its readers into the bushveld and leaves them immersed.

“The book presents Africa truthfully, in its beauty and tragedies,” says Isham. It “offers insight into the lives of the people in an African bush country camp and the value of every member.” The book is currently available for sale online at www.thesoundofthestring.com.

Best selling author Richard Louv, who coined the term “Nature Deficit Disorder,” will give a 7 p.m. talk in Leesburg March 14 about ways that people of all ages can reconnect with nature—and what’s at stake.

The Piedmont Environmental Council asked Louv to address audiences on the topic. His speech is also sponsored by Inova Loudoun Hospital. In his now famous Last Child in the Woods, Louv describes a radical separation between children and the natural world, which he connects with childhood obesity, attention deficit disorder, emotional stress and diminished creativity. In his latest book, The Nature Principle, Louv addresses the fact that adults need nature too, and envisions a world where we lead happier and healthier lives by bringing more nature into the places where we live, work, and play. Louv will speak at Tuscarora High School at 801 N. King Street in Leesburg. The event is free and open to the public.

The Piedmont Blue Ridge Horticulture Society will host two speakers during its March 10 meeting at the State Arboretum of Virginia/Blandy Experimental Farm, located at 400 Blandy Farm Lane in Boyce. The meeting will start at 2 p.m. in the library. Dr. Tracy Leskey will speak on the latest research on the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in a talk rescheduled from February, and Cathy Mayes will discuss the American Chestnut Project.

For directions to the State Arboretum of Virginia/Blandy Experimental Farm visit www. virginia.edu/blandy/map.html. The PBRHS meetings are free for members or a recommended $10 donation for non-members. A membership form to join the Piedmont Blue Ridge Horticulture Society can be downloaded at www.pbrhs.org.

The Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District is accepting orders for its annual tree seedling sale. The young, bare-rooted seedlings are well suited to Virginia soils and climate. Tree species available this year include: Norway Spruce, White Dogwood, Redbud, River Birch, Black Gum, White Oak, Shellbark Hickory and Bald Cypress. The shrub species this year is Elderberry. Norway Spruce seedlings are $35 for a bundle of 50 seedlings. The hardwood species, as well as the shrubs, are offered at $6 for five seedlings.

Sales tax of 5 percent must be included. To obtain a copy of the order form visit www.

loudounsoilandwater.org. Pre-paid orders will be filled on a first come, first served basis and the deadline is Friday, April 6. The pick-up date for the seedlings will be Friday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the LSWCD office on Catoctin Circle in Leesburg. Seedlings should be planted as soon as possible to minimize transplant stress. Proceeds from the sale are used to fund the District’s conservation education programs. In addition, this year the District will have pre-assembled 55-gallon rain barrels for purchase the day of the pickup for $68.25, tax included. To reserve a rain barrel or for any questions, call the LSWCD office at 571-918-4530. Office hours are from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Stream exclusion, water system and fence maintenance cost-share funding is now available to horse owners in Loudoun. A new program is available for a segment of horse owners who have not traditionally been eligible to take advantage of cost-share programs through the Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District. Loudoun County has provided the District with assistance to supply stream exclusion and water system cost-share funding to horse and other livestock owners who do not qualify for the Virginia state Ag Best Management Practices program because they have farms under five acres, or do not derive income from their operation. This funding complements the existing program providing cost-share assistance to horse and livestock owners earning income from their operations. These programs can cover up to 75 percent of the eligible costs of fencing out a stream from horse access and installing a water system. Funds are also available for maintenance on existing fencing that protects streams and water bodies. The cost share rate is $1 per linear foot of stream bank protected for this program. Excluding horses from streams benefits animal health by keeping hooves drier as well as providing a cleaner source of drinking water. Keeping horses away from waterways benefits the environment by keeping manure, which contains bacteria and excess nutrients, from washing into streams and keeping their banks protected from erosion. A little investment can provide a “win-win” for your horse and Loudoun’s streams. A twilight dinner meeting to further explain the program to horse owners will be held at 6 p.m. March 15, at the Taintor Farm, located at 16409 Hamilton Station Road near Waterford. Dinner will be provided by the LSWCD. Attendees will be able to see fencing and a water system installed with LSWCD cost-share funds, plus learn about funding available for stream fencing and water system installation on small horse and other livestock operations regardless of their acreage, or whether they produce income. LSWCD staff will explain the requirements of the program.

Registration for the meeting is free. To save a

spot, complete the on-line registration form at http://fs18.formsite.com/lswcd/TwilightHorseMeeting/index.html by Monday, March 12, or call Chris Van Vlack at 571-918-4530, ext. 107 for more information.

The first in the Mosby Heritage Area Association’s Conversations in History Series, “Rain, Sleet, Disease and Gloom: D. H. Hill & the Confederate Withdrawal from Northern Virginia,” will be held Wednesday, March 7, at Mount Zion Historic Park on Rt. 50 east of Gilberts Corner. US Defense Department geographer and historian Douglas Batson will examine the dispirited 12-day evacuation of Loudoun and Fauquier counties down the Old Carolina Road in rain and mud by Confederate forces March 7, 1862. Batson will give a first-person account as the commanderin-charge of the evacuation, Gen. D.H. Hill.

Batson is retired from the U.S. Army Reserves.

He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal during Operation Desert Storm. More information can be found at Batson’s living history website at www.dhhill.org. Admission to the program is $5 for adults and $2 for students. The program is given jointly by the MHAA and the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority.

For more information, call Mt. Zion Historic Park at 703-327-9777 or the Mosby Heritage Area Association at 540-687-6681. The talk will be given on the 150th anniversary of the Confederate retreat.

Also this month, “The Spar-Spangled Banner: 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812,” will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 11, at Oatlands Plantation off Rt. 15 south of Leesburg.

In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, the Mosby Heritage Area Association will sponsor a two-part event that will feature a talk on the United States flag and a tour of Rokeby, a historic house south of Leesburg. The afternoon will begin with Marc Leepson, author and historian, speaking on “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the Carriage House at Oatlands Plantation. Leepson is the author of Flag, An American Biography, which chronicles the history of this American symbol. The talk will be followed by a tour of nearby Rokeby, which reportedly was the hiding place for the Articles of Confederation, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, smuggled out of Washington for safekeeping in 1814 during the British occupation of the city. Historical lore has it the country’s most important documents were kept in a still-intact vaulted room in the cellar.

The cost of the double event is $65 to MHAA members or $75 to non-members.

The next lecture in the Conversations in History Series, also sponsored by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, is “The Potomac Frontier: The Mosby Heritage Area Continued On Next Page

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

Over The Paddock Fence in the Winter of 1861-62.” The event will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 25, at Mount Zion Historic Park on Rt. 50. Author, historian and MHAA Director of Education Rich Gillespie will present the experiences of people living in the Mosby Heritage Area (Loudoun, Fauquier, Clarke, Prince William and Warren Counties) from October 1861 through the spring of 1862. The lecture is a continuation of MHAA presentations that look at events in the Mosby Heritage Area during the time of the American Civil War in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of that war. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for students. For more information, call 540-687-6681, email info@mosbyheritagearea.org or visit www. mosbyheritagearea.org.

around Middleburg, the acclaimed restaurant at Goodstone provides its guests with an unparalleled fine dining experience. The wine list includes more than 250 labels carefully selected from local vineyards and all around the world. The restaurant uses only the finest and freshest ingredients, mostly produced in the Goodstone vegetable and herb gardens.

Recently, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant was honored as winner of Condé Nast Johansens “Most Excellent Inn 2011” in North America and finalist for “Most Excellent Inn 2012” and “Most Excellent Romantic Hideaway 2012” in North America. In addition, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant was named a winner of OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards for the “2011 Top Best Overall Restaurants in the USA.” Goodstone Inn & Restaurant is located at 36205 Snake Hill Road in Middleburg. For further information, call 540-687-3333.

Goodstone Inn and Restaurant near Middleburg has been named one of 10 winners of the February 2012 OpenTable Diners’ Choice List for “Top 10 Best Overall Restaurants in Virginia and the DC Suburbs.” The OpenTable Diners’ Choice Lists are determined by reviews of thousands of OpenTable diners. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant is a luxurious country inn and French restaurant in the heart of Virginia’s wine and hunt country. Drawing inspiration from its location on 265 acres of rolling hills and farmland

Spring is just around the corner, as are Spring Young Performers Workshop classes sponsored

by Wayside Theatre. The classes teach acting, singing and performance techniques through the rehearsal and performance of a play. After meeting the cast, Wayside directors select a play that will challenge each student appropriately, allowing children of all experience levels to benefit from the class. Each class will culminate with a recital performance on the Wayside stage. Spring is also about new beginnings, and so is the perfect time for Wayside to introduce

Continued From Page 29

a new class: YPW Acting Plus. Students will rehearse and perform a one-act play, and also perform a song selected for their character.

This is perfect for music theatre students who want to brush up on their acting, or YPW2 students who want to try a little singing. Wayside is also offering a tech class in sewing skills.

Participants will learn to sew by hand and machine, creating an original project to showcase during the performances. As always, YPW 1 and 2 are great for beginning actors, as well as those trying to develop their skills further.

Classes will be taught by Thomasin Savaiano, founder of the YPW program; Megan McShea, Wayside’s Education Director; Steve Przybylski, Wayside’s Resident Musical Director and composer; Chris Byrd, who first joined Wayside as an YPW student and has since assisted and stage managed YPW classes as well as Wayside’s Frederick County Parks and Rec programs; Dana Colagiovanni, a professional actress and Wayside’s current acting intern; and Tamara Carruthers, Wayside’s resident costume designer. Class times, tuition and other details are available online at www.waysidetheatre.org or by phone at 540-869-1776.

Union Jack Pub & Restaurant has earned recognition as the first restaurant in Winchester to receive the Virginia Green certification. As part of the process, Union Jack Pub initiated a variety of sustainable initiatives including an aggressive recycling program, energy efficient

lighting, an on-demand water heating system, energy efficient hand dryers in the bathrooms and Energy Start rated equipment to name but a few. The restaurant received its official certification in November 2011. “It was a great honor to receive the VA Green certification.

We’ve put a lot of time and effort into making our business sustainable and look forward to finding new ways to ‘green’ the pub,” explained owner Richard Oram. “We are very proud.”

By implementing daily “green” techniques, Union Jack has decreased its trash output from 16 yards per week to six yards per week. In an effort to maintain its VA Green status, the pub will continue to add and improve its sustainable efforts by exploring ways to recycle fryer grease into biodiesel to run “Jack,” the London taxi cab, which can be seen driving around the streets of Winchester. Oram encourages other businesses to think sustainably and do the same. Oram and Union Jack co-owner Debra Johnson restored the 1878 Victorian Cast Iron Union Bank Building to its original condition, which is now the home of their award-winning pub. Union Jack Pub & Restaurant is located on the Winchester walking mall at 101 Loudoun Street. It offers a menu of both traditional American and English cuisine and showcases a large selection of wine and craft beer. The bar area features large flat screen TVs showing news, European soccer and American sports.

For more information, visit www.theunionjackpub.com.

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31

Middleburg Life March 2012 In the Capital Region

In the Virginia Countryside

WASHINGTON F I N E P RO P E RT I E S , L L C

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

WIND FIELDS FARM, MIDDLEBURG, VA

WOODSIDE, DELAPLANE, VA

WALNUT HILL, BOYCE, VA

464 acres offers total privacy, mountain views, rolling meadows, and long frontage on historic Goose Creek. This meticulously restored and maintained colonial (ca 1853) is a classic example of a timeless Virginia farmhouse. Nine fireplaces, 8 bedrooms, detailed moldings, guest houses, stone cottages, pool, barns, ponds, beautiful endless walking/riding trails plus so many more amenities. $15,800,000.

Circa 1730 & 1830. House has been meticulously maintained and updated offering spacious, well-appointed rooms with 7 fireplaces, hardwood floors, wonderful millwork and other details. Well suited for entertaining. Scenic and private, rolling pastures, mountain views of the Blue Ridge and Cobbler Mountains, large pond. Whole house generator, pool, 7 stall barn, apartment, machine shed, 2 historic log cabins. Orange County Hunt. $2,500,000.

Gloria Armfield 540-678-2223 Jim Thompson 540-687-3216 Kathryn Harrell 540-687-2215

An expansive 5BR, 5FB, 3HB main home with grand entrance hall, formal DR, LR, paneled library, game room, 2 bedroom maids quarters, wine cellar and elevator sits on a knoll taking full advantage of the mountain and pastoral views. A green house, large Morton run in sheds, a barn and 4 cottages on 134 acres in an area of large farms and estates.

Excellent location an hour from Dulles Int'l Airport. $2,100,000.

GOOSE WOODS, MIDDLEBURG, VA

HUNT COURT, MIDDLEBURG, VA

WEST PROPERTY, UPPERVILLE, VA

Unique, custom 1970’s 4 bedroom, hexagonal stone house sited above Goose Creek in open woods. Windows and double doors to the outside on all sides plus a large deck. Swimming pool with views of the surrounding countryside. 28+- acres in two parcels which could accommodate 1-2 horses. Half mile of frontage on Goose Creek.

Stunning, secluded natural setting with an incredible sense of privacy.

Middleburg Hunt. $925,000.

Lovely condo 13 Hunt Court. Four finished levels, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 fireplaces. Freshly painted, in pristine condition, hardwood floors on 3 levels, carpet on lower level. Low voltage lighting, TV, cable & internet ready. Walkout lower level suitable for nanny or use as separate unit. $476,700.

Located in a quaint charming village, this lovely historic house (c.

1833) is in a superb setting with a large back lawn and garden with pretty plantings. The house offers 2 kitchens, solarium/ sunroom with brick floor. There is a separate second house. Needs TLC, priced below assessed value. To be sold "AS IS." $455,000.

Jud & Page Glascock

Ruth Ripley

Anita Sisney Kathryn Harrell

703-973-1987 540-687-2215

Carole Miller

540-592-3238

Cindy Polk Gloria Rose Ott

703-966-9480 540-454-4394

540-687-2222

540-687-2233

MEETING HOUSE, PARIS, VA

FEDERAL STREET, MIDDLEBURG, VA

OLD WOODS ROAD, DELAPLANE, VA

This property offers a real sense of history with all the modern day amenities. The Meeting House, circa 1790 in the hamlet of Paris, VA is situated with a view of the Crooked Run Valley. The Original brick structure has been renovated to include an open kitchen with generous sitting room, large bedroom and well appointed bath all with old wood floors. Terraces are framed in mature landscaping. $435,000.

Lynn Wiley 540-454-1527

Middleburg Office - Unit #4 107 A Federal Court Second Level.

Five separate offices + conference, reception area, kitchenette, work area and half bath. Total of 1400+ square feet. High speed internet access available. 3 parking spaces. $425,000.

Carole Miller 540-687-2233

Adorable Farmhouse style home on 3 wooded acres only minutes to I-66 at Marshall. Newly renovated chef ’s kitchen with custom cherry cabinets and top line appliances, family room with fireplace, large deck and patio for entertaining, first floor BR & BA, + add’l 3BR, & 3FBA. LL has media & game area with gas fireplace + private office. 2 car garage. $424,900.

Lynn Wiley 540-454-1527

MIDDLEBURG WASHINGTON,VA AMRFP.com

540.687.6395 540.675.1488

WASHINGTON, DC GEORGETOWN/DUPONT/LOGAN BETHESDA/CHEVY CHASE POTOMAC NORTHERN VIRGINIA WFP.com

202.944.5000 202.333.3320 301.222.0050 301.983.6400 703.317.7000

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March 2012 Middleburg Life

ProPerties in Hunt Country LAVENDER HILL

GULICk MILL

Upperville- Spectacular custom built home on 50 acres with gorgeous mountain views. Home has a European Country feel with traditional VA architectual details. Open floor plan includes 1st Floor Master Bedroom, Den, Living room, Chef ’s Kitchen, Sunroom, 3 Fireplaces, 3 bedrooms on 2nd level, full walk-out basement designed for Rec Room, bedroom & more. Heated pool, lovely terraces and enclosed courtyard. Two-car garage with one bedroom apartment above. $3,250,000

Middleburg/Upperville sUnique Italianate-Palladian inspired villa sBuilt by architect/owner sNestled on a ridge above Goose Creek s4,600+ sq ft stucco home s4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 master suites, 20’ ceilings, 10’ French doors, terra cotta tile floors, fireplace, and gourmet kitchen sExtensive landscaping sFormal gardens sCourtyard sPool with pergola sGuest house. $2,750,000

Nearly 60 acres of privacy with extensive waterfront on a navigable section of Goose Creek. Modest main stone house with endless options for expansion. Overlooks a pool, and sloping yard. The perfect beginning for a discreet and secure family compound surrounded by mature hardwood forest. Open space for horses. Three deep wells supply secure water. Recently remodeled rustic guest house with unfinished log section and detached historic stone spring house. $2,300,000

tranquility farm

CHIMNEyS

FROG HOLLOW

N E

W

PR IC

E

HIGHFIELDS

Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

Barrington Hall (540)454-6601

N E

W

PR IC

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Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

Purcellville-circa 1807, Fully renovated 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Federal-style stone home on 23+ acres nestled along the North Fork of Goose Creek. Hardwood floors, 4 fireplaces, 10’ foot ceilings and plaster crown moldings.

Original stone springhouse, smokehouse, 5-stall bank barn with finished guest apartment/office, 3 bedroom Tenant house and spring-fed pond. Ideal small horse $1,750,000 farm. Minutes to Purcellville and Rte 7.

Cricket Bedford (540) 229-3201

An English country estate, "Chimneys" exudes charm.

Main house, circa 1790 with later additions, is stucco over log and frame, has heart of pine floors, beamed ceilings, 5 Fpl, 6 Bd, 5 FBs, 2 HBs, boxwood and perennial gardens. Stone guest cottage, circa 1770, is 3 floors with 1Bd, 1FB. Poolhouse has flagstone floors, pickled walls, 2 Fpl, 1Bd-1FB. 2-car garage, barns, sheds, 12.5 acres. $1,595,000

Sheryl Heckler (540) 272-4300

Turn Key Horse Propertys7 Stall Center-Aisle Stable with spacious 1 Bedroom Apartment above s5 Paddocks s2 Run-In Sheds s Large Ring s Spacious Stone Residence s 4+ Bedrooms, 4 Baths, 2 Half Baths, 2 Fireplaces sHuge Unfinished Basement with additional Fireplace s 25 Acres s Orange County Hunt sMountain Views sLocated between The Plains and Middleburg $1,395,000 on Zulla Road. Great ride-out.

Cathy Bernache (540)424-7066

LAND

PARIS LAND

1540 ASPEN HILL LANE

EDGECLIFF FARM - One of a kind 146 acres with excellent road frontage along both Rectortown & Crenshaw Rds. Ideally situated in heart of Piedmont Fox Hounds hunt country near village of Rectortown. Lush open fields, stone walls, pond & sweeping views of both the Blue Ridge & Cobbler Mountains. Land in VOF easement. $2,400,000 ZULLA ROAD- just west of Middleburg & south of Route 50 partially cleared 5 acre parcel in Fauquier County just minutes to town. $450,000

105 + acres on the east side of Blue Ridge Mountain Road near the village of Paris. Possibly up to 4 parcels; 3 in Clarke County, 1 in Loudoun. Land is in an Appalachian Trail Conservancy Easement. Nice elevation, gently sloping, all wooded, great investment potential. Great access to Rt. 50 or Rt. 7.

Forestry Management Plan in hand. $948,600

Bee Lefferts (540) 454-5555 Barrington Hall (540) 454-6601

COON TREE ROAD - Located in Halfway, just minutes to Middleburg or The Plains. Almost 3 mostly cleared acres dotted with mature trees. Ideal for hunt box or main house. Approved 4 bedroom perc.

Orange County Hunt. $299,000 RAMBLEWOOD LANE - Excellent opportunity to build your dream home on a rare 3.69 acre parcel with a Middleburg address! County approved 5-bedroom septic field. House site located on top of a hill. Parcel also contains existing 1970’s farm house which is tenant occupied.

Property is offered “as is” $275,000

Just 2 ½ miles west of the village of Middleburg, and on a quiet lane in the Aspen Hill neighborhood s Lovely 3 Bedroom 2 Full Bath, 2 ½ Bath home on just over 2 acres s Master Bedroom on main level s Hardwood, tile and carpeted floors s Brick Fireplace s Crown Molding s Vaulted ceilings s Tray ceiling s Extensive Landscaping s Storage Shed s Private Deck s Attached 2 Car Garage s Full Basement $505,800

Barrington Hall (540)454-6601

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

Please see over 100 of our fine estates and exclusive country properties by visiting www.THOMAS-TALBOT.com Susie Ashcom Cricket Bedford Catherine Bernache John Coles Rein duPont Cary Embury Catherine Gutch Barrington Hall Sheryl Heckler

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