Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine April 2024

The Soap Witch Commonwealth’s Attorney Scott Hook

Arterra’s terroir: a muse for wine and art

Every Dog Has Its Day

Jeff Nanni provides hope for dogs (and their owners)

LiveLiFeHealthiest Your LiveLiFe

When an emergency happens, every second counts.

If you’ve experienced sudden chest pain or injury, there’s no time to waste. That’s why we’re here, offering a higher quality of emergency care, close to home. As an accredited Chest Pain Center, we’ve achieved a higher level of expertise in caring for cardiac emergencies. And we’re open 24/7, so you can get the care you need when it matters most.

Whenever you need us, we offer quality care in your community. We’ll help you live your healthiest life.

See all we have to offer at FauquierHealth.org

“I wish we had

about

known

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

most all, and the best place living facility. Any patient, family member care. e you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, can anytime, 24/7. Our staff lives and works because caring for our community is our passion.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101 Warrenton, VA 20186

sooner.” most all, and the best place living facility. Any patient, family member care. e you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, can anytime, 24/7. Our staff lives and works because caring for our community is our passion.

493 Blackwell Road • Suite 319 Warrenton, VA 20186

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101 Warrenton, VA 20186

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com

540.349.3970 | www.heartlandhospice.com/warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com

493 Blackwell Road • Suite 319 Warrenton, VA 20186

540.349.3970 | www.heartlandhospice.com/warrenton

nwonkdahewhsiwI“

nwonkdahewhsiwI“

nwonkdahewhsiwI“

nwonkdahewhsiwI“

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

about hospice sooner.”

hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

about hospice sooner.”

about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

“I wish we had known about hospice sooner.”

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived

the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived

540.349.3970 | www.heartlandhospice.com/warrenton nwonkdahewhsiwI“

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com nwonkdahewhsiwI“

most comfortable place of all, and the best place to provide or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or e house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, can contact anytime, 24/7. Our staff lives and works here because caring for our community is our passion.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101

most comfortable place of all, and the best place to provide or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or e house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, can contact anytime, 24/7. Our staff lives and works here because caring for our community is our passion.

or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or

most comfortable place of all, and the best place to provide or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or e house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, can contact anytime, 24/7. Our staff lives and works here because caring for our community is our passion.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or can contact us anytime, 24/7.

the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Warrenton, VA 20186

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

493 Blackwell Road • Suite 319

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

Warrenton, VA 20186

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101 Warrenton, VA 20186

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101 Warrenton, VA 20186

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

Home is the most comfortable place of all, and the place to provide hospice care. The house you’ve lived in for decades, or an independent, skilled nursing or assisted living facility. Any patient, family member or friend can contact us anytime, 24/7.

heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

| heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com

493 Blackwell Road • Suite 319 Warrenton, VA 20186

493 Blackwell Road • Suite 319 Warrenton, VA 20186

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

| heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

540.349.3970 | www.heartlandhospice.com/warrenton

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101

540.349.3970 | www.heartlandhospice.com/warrenton

Warrenton, VA 20186

400 Holiday Court • Suite 101

540.349.3970 | heartlandhospice.com/Warrenton

Warrenton, VA 20186

Warrenton, VA 20186

ROBIN EARL

MARY SCRO

JENNIFER

PUBLISHER

Dennis Brack dennis@warrentonlifestyle.com

EDITOR

Pam Kamphuis pam@warrentonlifestyle.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe kara@warrentonlifestyle.com

ADVERTISING

Sales Director: Jim Kelly jim@warrentonlifestyle.com, 434-987-3542

Senior Account Executive: Cindy McBride cindy@warrentonlifestyle.com, 540-229-6038

PAM KAMPHUIS

BY JOHN TOLER

DUCA

PAM KAMPHUIS

KARLA JONES SEIDITA

CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR

Jay Ford creative@warrentonlifestyle.com

ACCOUNTING

Carina Richard-Wheat cwheat@insidenova.com 540-905-7791

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Email: subscribe@warrentonlifestyle.com 540-675-3338

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE

Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine

70 Main Street, Suite 32 Warrenton, VA 20186 • 540-349-2951

ON THE WEB

FauquierNow.com/lifestyle

Facebook:

@FauquierNow, @WarrentonLifestyleMagazine

Email Newsletter: Sign up at FauquierNow.com

The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 11,500 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or omissions. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustration or photograph is strictly forbidden. ©2024 Rappahannock Media LLC.

Local singers step up to the mic

Remington eatery hosts karaoke contest

BY ROBIN EARL

Atypical Thursday night at Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern in Remington features friends and families gathering for pizza, burgers, and beer. Cowboy hats are a feature, as are sports on the TV over the bar.

And there is karaoke. Every Thursday and on frequent Fridays, karaoke DJ Linda Bradshaw will tee up between 12 and 18 singers who follow song lyrics on a screen above them as they serenade a friendly audience. But in April, Craft & Crust is kicking it up a notch.

Think of it like “The Voice,” only without John Legend or Reba McIntyre. And also without the thousands of screaming fans. But remember, there is pizza.

“It” is the 2024 Karaoke Singing Talent Contest. Local judges with professional vocal credentials will choose the best voices competing in the six-week, elimination-style singing contest. Two finalists will be selected each week, April 12 through May 10, and those ten will compete for prizes on week six, May 17.

More than 25 singers have already registered for the contest. Leland Shook, Josh Chinault and Brittany Scott of Remington, Angie Gentry of Brandy Station, Earl Outland of Manassas, Lee Blount of Colonial Beach and Kathleen Kinsolving of Herndon were at the restaurant in late February, workshopping their music in anticipation of the contest.

Oatland put an extra measure of twang into “Smokey Mountain Memories,” by Dolly Parton; Blount offered up Billy Joel’s “Piano Man;” Scott channeled Billie Eilish singing “Lost Cause,” and Kinsolving performed “Midnight at the Oasis,” by Maria Muldaur, complete with dancing and a sultry vibe.

The Panel of Judges

Maddi Mae, owner of Remington’s Sound House and prolific performer

Chris Bauer, violinist, guitarist, pianist, composer and an owner/ instructor at Modal Music Studio in Warrenton

Faye Coates, music director at Remington Baptist Church

Craig Dye, music archivist and retired music educator with Manassas City Public Schools

Stephen Moran, minister of music at the Remington United Methodist Church; he studied music composition at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia

Dan Mudge, guitarist, performer and an owner/instructor with Modal Music Studio in Warrenton

Danica Shook, one-time member of the Silver Belles (a trio that sings with Warrenton’s Silver Tones swing band) and frequent performer and vocal director for Fauquier Community Theatre musicals

Hayleigh Wilson, professional vocalist and instructor with Modal Music Studio in Warrenton

Lachelle Yoder, program director of Allegro Community School of the Arts in Warrenton

Local karaoke regulars perform favorites at Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern in February: Leland and Danica Shook present a duet of “The Boxer” (top), Earl Outland sings “Smokey Mountain Memories” (center), and Brittany Scott sings Billie Eilish’s “Lost Cause”

Dr. Shannon Moore | Dr. Lisa Butterfield | Dr. Barbara Masiello

VOTED “Best of Fauquier” 10 Times! Serving Fauquier County Since 1979 BEST

540.347.0555

528 Waterloo Road, Warrenton | warrentoneyes.com

2024 Karaoke Singing Talent Contest

Where: Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern, 204 East Main St., Remington

When: Elimination rounds will take place Fridays, April 12, 19 and 26 and May 3 and 10. Finalists will compete in a head-tohead match-up on Friday, May 17.

Prizes: $500 for first place; $50 gift card for runner up

To register for a spot behind the microphone: Email coordinator Linda Bradshaw at bradshaw. linda@comcast.net

(Provide name, address, phone number, date request and four song choices)

Shook sang Joel’s “She’s Got a Way About Her” solo, but then joined his wife Danica for a fun version of Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Boxer.” Danica Shook waved off the idea of entering the contest herself and Bradshaw offered the reason: “She’s too good. If Danica entered, no one else would.”

Her heartfelt rendition of “Me and Bobby McGee” proved Bradshaw’s point. Even though she won’t be competing, Danica Shook has agreed to be a judge for the contest; she’ll be representing Fauquier Community Theatre.

The panel of judges will vary from night to night and will choose finalists based on vocal talent (70%) and stage presence (30%). Bradshaw confirmed that all of the judges are professional musicians. Maddie Mae, for instance, owns Remington’s Sound House, a music school and songwriting studio. She is a prolific performer and in 2020, she released a record called “Quiet Corners.” Mae is a familiar face in Remington and can be heard at local festivals and charity concerts.

Dan Mudge, guitarist and owner of Modal Music Studio, said that judging the contest fits in with Modal Music’s emphasis on community outreach. “We like being involved in the community. We perform at the Warrenton Farmers Market and partner with our local bookstore on an open mic night. We also like to provide opportunities for our students to perform and are encouraging them to sign up for the karaoke contest – not on the nights we’ll be judging, of course!”

He was enthusiastic about Craft & Crust’s latest musical adventure and is looking forward to supporting the contest. “It’s great that they’re doing a multiple night competition. It should be a lot of fun.”

When Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern opened in December of 2021, owners Jim Peterson and Dawn Rana, Michelle and Ronnie Bland and Cecil Coleman envisioned their new restaurant as a family-friendly meeting place for residents of Remington and beyond. Even then, they were hoping to be able to offer live music and karaoke.

Peterson said he’s glad they have been able to offer the community-building karaoke nights. “Everybody really seems to like it. We have a mix of ages, and sometimes kids will sing too.”

Bradshaw has been hosting the karaoke nights for Craft & and Crust for three years, but the singing contest will be the restaurant’s first competition. L

Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern 204 East Main Street, Remington craftandcrustpizza.com

What’s New at Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern

Food: Pizzas are named after Fauquier County localities. “The Fauquier,” a meat lover’s pizza, has been recently added. Also new, “The Midland” has a creamy parmesan base and includes smoked gouda, tomatoes and parsley. The new C&C Smash Burger is handcrafted, with aged cheddar, tomato, onion and pickle, Craft & Crust special sauce and is served on a croissant bun. Drink: In addition to craft beers, the Craft & Crust has recently started serving cocktails. Coming soon: Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern owner Jim Peterson said he’ll be opening the Craft & Crust Lounge soon in the space next door to the pizza tavern. Craft cocktails like espresso martinis and smokey old fashioneds will be on the menu.

In the spring: According to Peterson, Second Saturdays will commence in Remington when the warmer weather arrives. The once-a-month community events will feature outdoor music and food, vendors and other fun activities.

Josh Chinault of Remington sings at a recent karaoke night at Craft & Crust Pizza Tavern.

Reporting for Duty

A day in the life of a Warrenton police officer

BY MARY SCRO

Ireported for duty bright and early.

The Warrenton Police Department invited me, a writer for this magazine, to experience a day on patrol with one of their officers. I had no idea what to expect.

As it turned out, neither did my host, Officer Francis Radel. But this is not unusual. “I never know what a day will bring,” he said. “I go out prepared to handle whatever comes up.”

And “whatever comes up” can include everything from traffic accidents to fraud calls to mental health incidents — and even more serious emergencies.

On the Beat in Car 54

After a shift meeting in the report room at police department headquarters near East Shirley Avenue, Radel and I got on the road. Since there were no calls or loose ends from the night before that needed attention, Radel started by driving around the area to provide a police presence. As we drove, he explained what he looks for: violations, such as expired tags and inspection stickers, moving violations, or people who look like they need help.

The first (and only) traffic stop that day came at 8 a.m.: A driver with an expired tag.

“It’s a safety thing,” Radel said. “If a car hasn’t been inspected for over a year, no matter how new, there could be a hidden problem that could cause harm to the driver or others.”

All day, on and off, Radel drove through areas known for repeated trouble calls, and he sat in places where the presence of a police car would slow drivers down or provide a deterrent to criminal behavior. As he drove, he kept an eye out for violations and an ear to the radio.

Our next call was to investigate an incident where a driver’s car had been hit while he was in a restaurant. Radel completed a report for the vehicle owner, then he went to a local business who had a camera facing the parking lot and asked for footage.

A short time later, a call came in for a student who was sick and disoriented at a local school. The police department partners with EMS in case drugs are involved, so we drove over to see if WPD was needed. Thankfully, no drugs, and EMS had the situation well in hand.

Officer Radel’s Road to Law Enforcement

While in college in 2014, Radel realized a career in law enforcement was where he desired to serve. He attempted to pursue law enforcement both in Texas (where he briefly attended college) and in his home state of Virginia, but without much success. Finding doors closed, he decided to pursue a career in business, including a few years working as a manager at Chick-Fil-A. However, his desire to serve remained.

“Every time officers would come into the restaurant, I felt like I was on the wrong side of the counter,” Radel said. “I could not shake the urge to join them.”

With the encouragement of both his wife and his brother, who is also in law enforcement, Radel pursued an opening at Warrenton Police Department and was accepted and sworn in in June 2021. After graduating from the academy, he patrolled the night shift, switching to the day shift last fall.

Radel credits his time at ChickFil-A for helping him learn ways to treat everyone with respect and kindness. He firmly believes that his law enforcement job came at just the right time in his life, and he is very thankful to God for where he is.

“Of all the jobs I’ve had, this is the one I enjoy the most,” Radel said.

Around noon, Radel and two other patrol cars helped with traffic control for a funeral in town. That’s a regular service provided by the WPD for the community.

A little later in the afternoon, we had a “disorderly conduct” call. Two other cars had already arrived when we got there, and Radel was really glad to see one of them.

“That officer has experience with this person, so I’m glad he got there first,” said Radel.

So far, there weren’t blaring lights and sirens used during any of these calls. Why? “Unless it’s a critical situation, the extra few minutes it takes to get there is safer than people trying to get out of my way on a narrow two-way street,” Radel explained.

And then came Radel’s last call of the day for an accident in front of a school. He heard the words “car crash” and “T-bone” — and this time it was lights and sirens all the way. EMS was already there, and no one was seriously injured.

We’re excited to announce

“I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to introduce both existing and new clients to B. Riley Wealth’s extensive resources. The firm’s focus on our clients’ needs is one reason I chose to partner with the Warrenton team. I look forward to providing my clients with access to unique offerings and the exceptional level of support available here.” --Thomas Tucker

Tom is a Virginia native and graduate of Shenandoah University. He became a financial advisor in 2002 after beginning his career with SWIFT. He and his wife, Krista, have deep roots in the local community, having raised three children here. Locals may also recognize Tom as a talented musician who plays bass and keyboards with a local band and as an amateur photographer.

Contact our Warrenton advisors to learn more about these and other services:

Dennis Rustom, MD, FAAP

Joshua Jakum, MD, FAAP

• Diana Chalmeta, MD, FAAP

• Katherine Bovee, MD, FAAP

Debbie Hayes, FNP-C • Candace Simpson, CPNPC-PC, IBCLC

Sinéad Arndt PA-C, MSPAS

20 Rock Pointe Lane • Warrenton, VA 20186 540.347.9900 • www.piedmontpediatrics.com

The WPD provides emergency rescue and CPR if EMS has not yet arrived, then they help ensure traffic safety, write up an incident report and/or citations as needed, and make sure all vehicles are removed from the scene.

After that last call, we patrolled until Radel’s shift was up. A quiet ending to what Radel said was a fairly typical day, all in all. I thought the day might be more action-filled, but I can honestly say I’m glad it wasn’t. It’s About the People

Officer Radel and his fellow officers take their mission to serve and protect to heart. To them, calls are not numbers or “problems.” They represent people who need help and understanding.

“My goal is to know the people I serve, and to respond to them with empathy,” he said. But sometimes empathy can only go so far. Even then, when an arrest is required Radel works with compassion and the intent to help an offender in the long run.

Radel and other officers take classes and read recommended resources to help them respond calmly to conflict and achieve a peaceful resolution. They also depend on each other and other professionals in the community. Radel stressed the value of teamwork – not only with fellow officers, but also emergency medical services, 911 dispatchers, and other town and county agencies.

One of Radel’s most memorable calls was serving an emergency custody order. It required getting Child Protective Services involved to rescue a child from a harmful situation. Pulling together all available resources resulted in a favorable outcome.

“At the end of that day, I knew the child was safe and would be cared for,” Radel said. L

In the patrol car, Officer Radel has everything at his fingertips, including his laptop.

The People’s Choice

Student interest brings niche high school sports into the mainstream

In winter, of course, indoor sports reign in Virginia, and they play a vital role in any school’s life. At Wakefield School in The Plains, this past winter season provided a bounty of excitement in two traditional winter favorites, swimming and basketball: the varsity swim team won the GPAC championship for the second straight year, with swimmers qualifying for the Virginia Independent School Athletic Association (VISAA) state tournament and dropping seconds off of their times; and both boys and girls varsity basketball teams captured their respective GPAC conference and tournament championships, with both teams entering the VISAA state playoffs’ round of eight and the girls moving on to finish in the final four.

The VISAA, however, is not the only game in town when it comes to high school sports, and Wakefield is fortunate to also offer two less familiar but equally exciting winter sports that are not part of VISAA’s traditional menu: the squash and equestrian teams.

Both squash and equestrian sport entered Wakefield’s athletics program in the most desirable and organic way possible: by popular demand! In keeping with the value Wakefield places on student voice and initiative, it was student and prospective-student interest that provided the initial push towards both sports. Both were then advocated for by Wakefield parents whose kids wanted to pursue those sports, and ultimately both were championed by Wakefield decision-makers as excellent ways to expand student opportunity.

And in addition to the happy students who were already squash players and riders and who could now pursue their favorite sports as part of their school’s varsity athletics experience, Wakefield’s adoption of squash and

equestrian sport has had the single most desirable effect that any youth sports program can hope for: it has brought eager new beginners into both sports, and has made them into what can only be described as superfans.

As far as varsity competition goes, both teams have much to be proud of.

Prior to pandemic disruptions, Wakefield squash remained competitive in Chase Interclub Varsity League (CIVL) Division I each year since the program’s inception, winning the championship title each year from 2011-2014 and from 2017-2020. The team also competes in the Mid-Atlantic Squash Organization (MASO) League, under the auspices of U.S. Squash, comprised of Wakefield and seven other varsity teams, including powerhouses like Woodberry Forest, Episcopal, and Gonzaga. Wakefield finished in its highest-ever position of 4th in the team's last competitive season in the MASO League in 2019-20.

According to Coach Mark Broekman, Wakefield’s varsity team, fully rebounded since the pandemic lull and led by an experienced and nationally-ranked player, is poised for the school’s best season ever next year, with no one graduating off of this year’s squad and more newcomers moving up from the Developmental Squash programs in both the Middle and Upper Schools.

With equal attention to bringing aboard eager beginners, the Wakefield Equestrian Sports Program (WESP) provides school horses, coaching, and a riding facility for students in grades 6 through 12 throughout the school year. The team competes at shows organized by the International Equestrian Association (IEA), which also provides horses for competition. As a result, students

“In keeping with the value Wakefield places on student voice and initiative, it was student and prospectivestudent interest that provided the initial push towards both sports.”

are not required to have their own horses to participate in practices or shows.

This past year saw banner accomplishments for WESP. According to Coach Holly Osman, both varsity and Middle School equestrian teams qualified for the IEA Zone 3, Region 10 Finals; it was the varsity team’s first time in eight years, and over half of the team earned individual qualifications to regionals as well. One rider advanced to the Zone Finals, held in Lexington, Kentucky, in March.

According to both Coach Broekman and Coach Osman, though, there is more on the table in both squash and equestrian sport than simply honing skills and winning titles.

Says Coach Broekman, “Squash can be of great benefit both to health and to a child's future. Squash has been rated the #1 healthiest sport in the world by Forbes Magazine! Many top colleges in the U.S. have amazing squash programs, and top-level high school squash players can get recruited to those top schools through their squash-playing achievements as well as their academics.”

When asked about the special lessons that working with horses can offer to students, Coach Osman says, “Horses help these riders learn to make mistakes and identify why and figure out how to make it better. To let it go and apologize to the horse. And to try again. So compassion, accountability, and perseverance.”

And, she continues, “I also love that horses bridge the gaps. When any humans, old, young, any nationality, get together and they all love horses...they will talk for hours. We realize how weird and dorky we are in our horse craze, and we accept it!”

Just as student voice and agency brought these two off-the-beaten-path varsity sports to Wakefield, student passion now keeps them thriving, to the benefit not only of experienced athletes pleased to find them available, but also of the many who have discovered them as beginners and never left.

Arterra

Clean wine and vineyard-inspired art straight from the land

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

When Jason Murray and his wife Sandy Gray-Murray first visited the Delaplane property in northern Fauquier County where they later built Arterra Winery and Vineyard, they each had the same thought: “This is magical.”

While the spot is indeed exceptional, they were thinking along different but parallel lines. Jason, an experienced winemaker, was envisioning grapevines stretching across the hillside, while Sandy, a mixed media artist, could see creative possibilities from the land.

The couple moved to Fauquier County in 2009 while Jason was working as a winemaker and Sandy, who holds degrees in fine art, art history and art education, had just left her position as an art teacher in Maryland.

Jason has been in the wine industry since 2001 and is currently on his 19th vintage in Fauquier County. Also, with a master’s degree in horticulture science, he has knowledge and experience in growing fruit.

Those two qualifications led him to want to go out on his own with his own vineyard and make wine his own way.

One

Meanwhile, Sandy, a mixed media artist with her primary focus grounded in ceramics and clay, had been creating wine-related art, selling it at wine festivals in the area. Her customer base became large enough to make having a permanent location to create and sell her work not only a possibility, but a necessity.

Sandy said, “This paralleled Jason’s transition to wanting to have control over his process as well.”

They realized that merging the art venue with a winery was not only logical, but it would also result in strengthening the position of each.

Clockwise from top: Arterra Winery and Vineyard’s tasting room and cellar opened in February of 2015, and Sandy’s art studio (left side of building) was added later. A merging of two paths: Winemaker Jason Murray and artist Sandy Gray Murray are both inspired by the northern Fauquier County terroir for both wine production and artistic muse.

of Jason’s winemaking techniques is native yeast fermentation, which uses the yeast that naturally occurs on the skin of the fruit to ferment the wine, instead of adding commercial yeast

BT MANDY GIEHLL, GIEHLL PHOTOGRAPHY

BT MANDY GIEHLL, GIEHLL PHOTOGRAPHY

In 2012 they developed a 100-page business plan for a winery, received a loan via the USDA Farm Service Agency, purchased the magical spot, and built Arterra, including a space for Sandy’s studio.

Clean Wine

Over the years, Jason had developed his own theories for a more natural and, as he describes, site-expressive way to produce wine.

The industry in general had moved to a more standardized approach to wine production: using preserved yeast and additives, a winemaker could develop a formula to produce massive amounts of a consistent product. Types of wines started to taste similar as they were produced to adapt to consumers who were expecting a certain flavor.

To Jason, that doesn’t really ring true to making the best wine. He wants the flavors of the grapes to express themselves naturally. And he knows how to do it.

The fruit

The first step, drawing on his horticultural experience, is growing the absolute best grapes he possibly can.

He said, “The east side of the Blue Ridge in northern Fauquier is the best place on the east coast to grow and make wine. The key is to grow the right grapes at the right time in the right place. You need to find grapes that are uniquely suited to the area.”

Clockwise from top left: Post fermentation in the terracotta Amphora, extraction of the grape skins. In the tasting room, the goal is to engage with the customer and share their entire winemaking approach and philosophy. Arterra Vineyard has 8.5 acres under vine.

He has found that the climate here, with cold winters and hot humid summers with the possibility of either flood or drought, is particularly well suited to two grapes: petit verdot and tannat.

The process

Then when fermenting the wine, he describes his process as minimalistic. He never adds commercial yeast, but lets the grapes’ own native yeast, which grows naturally on the fruit, do the fermenting. The fermenting vessels are chosen specifically for their flavor neutrality, such as older French oak barrels that do not lend an oaky flavor,

stainless steel, or terracotta Amphora, which dates back to ancient times. Other than the tiniest bit of sulfite to assist shelf life, there are no other additives, and never any chemical manipulation to achieve a certain flavor.

The result?

The result is what Jason strives for: a true Virginia terroir wine. The flavors come straight from the land and let the fruit shine through. He describes his wine as “graceful and elegant, with amazing complexity and layers of subtleties.”

For Jason, it all has to do with people, and connecting them with the true wine experience. “We want to engage with the customer with the entire approach and philosophy. It’s very easy when you go to a winery to spend time catching up with friends, and experiencing the product goes over your head. Whereas I can present to you how my wines feel. You will understand by being led to actually focus on the wines how distinctive and unique and interesting they are.”

“A lot of conventional wine is most impressive at first sip. I describe a truly good wine as one that the more that you’re sitting with it and drinking it, the better it gets. When people taste my wines, after the first sip they say, ‘That’s nice.’ After the second sip, they say, ‘That’s good.’ The third sip, they say, ‘That’s really good.’”

“It’s a slow, long game,” he said.

Hawkmoth Arts

Not only did Jason find a place to express himself through wine, Sandy also found artistic freedom at Arterra. She has a large, light-filled studio where she can practice her craft to her heart’s content as well as continue to teach others who are interested.

Sandy’s artwork consists of hand-crafted bowls, trays, and hanging pieces which are displayed in the tasting room of the winery.

Instead of a pottery wheel, she starts with slabs of clay that she rolls out and forms from there. I think of my ceramics as being more sculptural …It lends itself to a more organic form. Nothing is ever exactly the same. It’s a more fluid approach.”

Keeping to the winery theme, she incorporates wine related materials like wine barrel staves, lids, and rings.

Then, inspired by the natural surroundings, she started incorporating another artistic medium: raw materials from the vineyard and nearby forest, such as grape leaves, vines, and canes.

Expanding beyond the vineyard, Sandy also uses a variety of leaves from the surrounding fields and forests, some of which, like burdock, can get very large – sometimes over 2 feet wide.

Sandy said, “It’s magical to me how big the leaves are. I enjoy the challenge of the bigger leaves; they’re not always available. A very big leaf is exciting. It’s hard to not get excited when I find one.”

Using organic materials parallels Jason’s minimalistic approach to his art. The resulting pottery is an impression of the leaf; the actual leaf itself is removed or burns off in the kiln. Maintaining the vein quality and character of the leaf requires a light hand.

“It is like a fossil. I’m bringing the essence of a form that is from nature into another form through clay.” L

Arterra Winery and Vineyard

Hawkmoth Arts Studio and Gallery 1080 Leeds Manor Rd., Delaplane 540-422-3443 arterrawines.com | hawkmotharts.com

Warrenton Christian Preschool

SUMMER CAMPS

Session 1: (June 11-14) Dinosaur Adventures

Session 2: (June 18-20) Ocean Expedition

Session 3: (June 25- 27) Magical, Mythical Quest

Session 4: (July 9-11) Space Exploration

Session 5: (July 16-18) Community Helpers

Session 6: (July 23-25) Classic Story Adventures

Session 7: (July 30- August 1) Under the Big Top

Session 8: (August 6-8) Let’s Get Creative

All Camps will have STEAM elements throughout!

Camp hours are Tuesday thru Thursday 9 am to 1 pm Contact us at wcpreschool@warrentonchurch.org for more info!

On a Roll

Fauquier’s Matt Fischer helped Team USA bring home the silver in Junior Men’s Roller Hockey at the 2022 World Skate Games. By 2022, Matt had had his eye on making it to the Roller Hockey World Skate Games, the highest level of competition for roller hockey players, for quite some time. Having played from childhood, the eighteen-year-old Orlean resident had been jockeying as a free agent player to be as visible as possible to the bigger coaches since high school.

2024 Summer Camps

Give Your Student A Unique Summer Experience!

Themed Camps

Storybook Camp, June 24-28, 9am - noon. Ages 4 & 5

Princesses & Pirates, July 8-12 9am - noon. Ages 5 - 7

Heros & Villians, Aug 5 - 9, 9am - noon. Ages 4-6

Shrek Jr, Theatre Intensive

July 15 - 26, 9am - 4pm

This summer we will be returning to our roots with a Summer Theatre Intensive camp. Join us for Shrek Jr.

Finding Nemo, Theatre Intensive with Fauquier High School

June 17 - 27 (M-TH)

This summer Allegro is excited to partner with Fauquier High School to present a Summer Intensive Camp. Join us for Finding Nemo.

MAD Skills Theatre

July 8 - 12, 1-4pm

This fast paced afternoon camp focuses on the 3 aspects of Musical Theatre - Music, Acting, Dancing. Each day students will explore a different show, giving them a wide range of styles.

Private Lessons

June 3 - Aug 2

Both in person and virtual lessons are available.

This Band Can Do No Wrong

A passion and talent for making music and sharing it with others

BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOS BY ROXPLOSION.COM

Even as a young child, Dylan Pierce knew he wanted to be a musician. “I took piano lessons first, and then when I was around 12 or 13, I started playing the guitar,” he said. “My brothers were also in a band around the area called Among the Silent.”

Pierce spent some time doing musical theater, but now at 26, his focus is on his own band, Dowrong. The origin of the name is a funny story. “My first job out of high school was at a car dealership and there was this old guy there who couldn't remember my name. He'd come up with different names that started with ‘D’ and one day he just started calling me Dudley - and it stuck.”

As a kid, Pierce watched the show Dudley Do-Right, and when he officially formed the band over a year ago, the name Dowrong felt perfect. Along with guitarist and vocalist Pierce, core members of the band are keyboardist Brandon Landers, guitarist Ryan Strong, and bassist Bob Wells. They are all vocalists as well. Drummers are on rotation, but the two most consistent ones are Kevin Slappy and Kyle Van Dyke, who also occasionally sings.

“I've known Ryan since childhood,” said Pierce. “Our dads went to high school together and they reconnected when they both moved to Fauquier County. I met Bob

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Relationship Counseling

Mother - Daughter Counseling Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief ADD / ADHD & Assertiveness Training

NO WAIT LIST!

Our team of therapists are here to help you.

Left: Dylan Pierce, guitar and lead vocals

Right: Brandon Landers on keyboard

Michelle Kelley PhD, LCSW (owner)

Wells through a church — he was playing bass there and my friend Dave brought me in to play drums at the time. Bob knew Brandon through another band, and when we wanted to put together a show, he brought Brandon in. We've all melded and it's been a good thing ever since.”

Although the band played its first live show in January of 2023, it has released music under that name for well over two years, including six EPs, numerous singles, and one full-length album, Tweener. Dowrong is set to release its second full length album, Memento Mori, later this year.

When it comes to genres, the band likes to mix it up, and plays everything from 60s classic rock and classic country all the way up to modern pop. “My favorite era of music is the stuff I grew up with,” said Pierce. “I always listened to this one band called Relient K. They're like a pop-punk band from back in the day, but their style has changed drastically over the years. They've covered just about everything, which is why they're one of my biggest inspirations.”

He added, “There’s also been a lot of really good local music over the years that's just blown me away. I'm really into smaller bands that are extremely talented. I find them fascinating.”

Pierce, who lives in Warrenton with his wife Michelle, 3-year-old daughter Lillian, and has a son on the way, enjoys the creative expression of being a musician. “It’s my passion. It's always a good outlet to have something to just let loose with, have fun with, and express what I'm thinking on the inside through song. It's just freeing to write music and to perform it for others and to have that validation that what I'm writing is good. That’s always a positive motivator.”

When it comes to writing music, he said he creates it in one of three ways. “One is that I have a specific idea and I have to work really hard at getting the words out to write that one idea. Another is I'll have it come to me and the whole idea will pretty much be flushed out before I've even written it. The third way will be me and the other guys sitting down and jamming and seeing if anything nice comes up. If so, we start working on an idea that way.”

Dowrong has been in such demand recently that Pierce has made it his full-time job. “We've been told many times that we are the best live band that any venue has seen,” he said. “We're tight and we're committed and we've only been doing this as a group for a little over a year. We're only going to get better from here.”

The band currently plays in a lot of local breweries such as Old Bust Head Brewing Company in Vint Hill Farms and at Four Js Farm & Brewery in Warrenton. “We've also started to get into the Northern Virginia scene just because there's more young adults up there and that’s who our style of music typically tends to appeal to. But, we've gotten plenty of compliments from the generation above mine, so I don't think we have a very exclusionary style.” L

Top: Bob Wells, bass guitar bottom left: Ryan Strong, lead guitar bottom right: Kyle Van Dyke on drums

freedom help hope peace of mind

We are freedom help hope peace of mind

•Conversation & company

are freedom help hope peace of mind

the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs:

.

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time getting to know your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs:

Transportation, shopping & errands dressing & hygiene

•Conversation & company

• Conversation & company

• Conversation & company

• Medication reminders

•Conversation & company

• Transportation, shopping & errands

• Transportation, shopping & errands

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

•Laundry & light housekeeping

• Transportation, shopping & errands

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference. are

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time getting to know your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs:

• Transportation, shopping & errands

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference.

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time getting to know your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs: Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

•Walking & mobility assistance

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time getting to know your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs:

• Medication reminders

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference. We

• Medication reminders

• Medication reminders

• Medication reminders

•Assistance with meals

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference.

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference.

•Laundry & light housekeeping

• Laundry & light housekeeping

• Laundry & light housekeeping

•Laundry & light housekeeping

•Assistance with meals

•Assistance with meals

• Assistance with meals

• Assistance with meals

Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

540-579-7570

540-579-7570

540-579-7570

540-579-7570

540-579-7570

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

•Mail & paperwork organization

•Walking & mobility assistance

•Walking & mobility assistance

• Walking & mobility assistance

• Walking & mobility assistance

•And much more!

•Mail & paperwork organization

•Mail & paperwork organization

• Mail & paperwork organization

• Mail & paperwork organization

•And much more!

•And much more!

• And much more!

• And much more!

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Every Dog Day Its Has about

Jeff Nanni provides hope for dogs (and their owners) at Muddy & Co.

BY JENNIFER WALDERA

PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Dogs that come to Marshall canine behavior consultant Jeff Nanni aren’t necessarily easy or quick projects.

Many of them have serious behavioral problems — biting, aggression, separation anxiety, fear, problems with socialization. Many are adopted from shelters and rescues. Usually, Nanni’s human clients have made numerous other unsuccessful attempts to help their dogs. It’s serious business: Some of the dogs’ behavior is dangerous enough to consider euthanasia.

Often, Nanni is their last hope.

“My life is all dogs”

When Nanni first moved from the Pennsylvania area to Washington, D.C., he spent much of his time commuting to Middleburg to fulfill his desire to ride and show horses. It was through his years of working with horses that Nanni developed the ability to understand their behaviors and communicate with them, a skill that he ultimately transferred into working with dogs.

Nearly two decades ago, people began to recognize Nanni’s talent for improving dogs’ behavior and started to ask for his help with training their pups. A few years later, having moved to Fauquier County, he started his

muddy

“I named the business Muddy & Co after my dog Muddy because he was such a big help to me for years. He was a dog I rescued when he was 6 months old. He was awesome in helping the training dogs learn. One time, years ago, I was working with a deaf dog and decided to let her off leash on a hike. Then, as she ran up the trail out of sight, I thought, ‘Ok, how am I getting her to come back?’ I literally said, ‘Muddy, go get her.’ He ran ahead and came back with her. He was the best. He passed away a couple of weeks ago at the age of 16.”

Case study: BUTCH

Butch was in a shelter for over a year suffering from a severe skin condition that kept him isolated from people and other dogs. He had minimal human interaction, so his manners and communication skills were poor. Although there was no indication of how successful a transition to an adoptive home would be, he was adopted soon after being medically cleared. It was a disaster. He was not ready to follow rules and did not understand what was expected of him. He bit his adopter several times.

After this incident, Butch came to stay with me. After teaching him how to communicate with words and sounds he began to understand all the rules and thrived in the structured environment. I gave him as much time as he needed to learn with no expectations for perfection. We spent weeks socializing out in public; his favorite outing was to Starbucks for a pup cup. I slowly introduced him to people, and he loved everyone he met.

When the time was right Butch began meeting potential adopters. One afternoon I met a family at the park that fell in love with him immediately. I explained his history and the behavior work I was doing with him that they would need to continue in their home. I prepared a written plan for his transition. It has been three years, and Butch is the star of his family. He still loves pup cups.

Juke, an Argentino Dogo, is deaf but responds very well to sign language and hand signals.

training business, Muddy & Co. Since then, he has helped hundreds of dogs by focusing on behavioral interventions that have been so successful that Nanni is now in his sixteenth year of business.

How does he do it? In a word: devotion.

“My life is all dogs. I work out and I work with these dogs all day long. They need so much intensive care to get them through these issues,” Nanni said. “I only take one or two dogs at a time, because they need my full attention all day, every day.”

Behavior modification methods

Instead of obedience training, where a dog is trained to perform actions upon request, Nanni’s behavior modification method works by analyzing how a dog feels when presented with a situation to which he reacts aggressively. Then, through non-aversive, gentle techniques, the trainer helps the dog to change his negative perceptions of fearful situations by slowly and carefully reintroducing them. Replacing the negative percep -

tions with positive ones eliminates the need for the dog to react aggressively.

“My first concern is not the problem behavior, whatever it may be, it is find ing out why the dog is so stressed and unhappy, Nanni said. “Eighty percent of behavior challenges come from anxi ety-based disorders.”

Success requires patience: “I do not ask anything of a dog with an aggres sion history when they first arrive until we are both ready,” Nanni said. “That is where constantly studying body language and stress signs and knowing when to take the next step comes in. It is learned from years of practical experience. It is so rewarding to watch a dog that arrived stiff and scared grow to trust his surroundings and just start to relax and become soft and friendly.”

“There’s no formula for dogs — each dog has its own.”

While some of Nanni’s talent is un doubtedly innate, he also attributes his success to remaining calm and patient. Starting his day with yoga and medita

tion practices helps him keep a serene frame of mind for this purpose. And

assess whether there are any underlying physical issues, from injuries to anxiety, that may be causing the unwanted behaviors. For this, Nanni relies on the expertise of Dr. Steven Bartlett at Animal Medical Center of Warrenton.

“I like Jeff’s approach — that’s why I think we work well together. He always wants to make sure there’s not any physical problem first,” Dr. Bartlett said.

After a medical exam and any needed treatment or medication, Nanni can get to work on using his calm approach to transform those behaviors.

“He tries to let the dog get used to him and relax. There’s a two-week period to adjust and chill out and get used to the environment. Then he can move forward with the training and have it be as effective as possible. It seems to work well for him. When they come [back] in, I’ll notice a difference in a relatively short period of time,” Dr. Bartlett said.

Once the dog is calm in his new environment and responding to training,

Mush made amazing progress with Nanni.

I am not afraid of being bitten. I have never been bitten by a dog, although I have a chihuahua that just arrived, and she is trying her best to be the first.

Nanni takes them out on the town. “Most of the dogs have socialization issues. Once they’re settled in, they’re with me everywhere – Home Goods, Starbucks, Home Depot — learning to interact.”

Happy clients (two- and four-legged)

Dr. Bartlett isn’t the only one to see remarkable change after Nanni has worked with a pet. While client Margaret Cassidy and her husband both had adopted shelter dogs, and she had grown up with pups in the house, neither had ever experienced a struggle training their dogs. Then they adopted Dolly Madison.

“This one threw us for a loop, though — she was scared of everything. We

for which he was negatively disciplined. As an American rottweiler, Titan was instinctively dedicated to protecting his family by being wary of strangers; he was, by his understanding, punished for doing his job. He became fearful and was terrified and distrustful in the shelter surrounded by strangers.

Titan came to stay with me, and I allowed him to just live and observe. I asked nothing

of him for a few weeks. He followed all the rules and felt safe and relaxed. His personality began to emerge — he was a big, goofy, often scared-of-his-ownshadow kind of guy. I went to work and began opening up his world to new experiences and environments.

After a couple of months, I introduced him to a potential adopter. It was love at first sight. We spent an afternoon together and discussed what Titan needed for a successful transition. Titan found a home that allows his kindness and silliness to shine without fear.

Warrenton

tried all sorts of trainers, and nothing worked. We knew we needed a solution, [and other] trainers were not delivering one. We told our vet and he said we needed a behaviorist, not a trainer, and he recommended Jeff. We were so nervous to turn her over to him for a month, but we did. And thank goodness we did!”

Cassidy said that before training with Nanni, Dolly Madison was terrified by something as small as a twig cracking during a hike. But that fear had drastically dissipated by the time she

“Now we hike with her, [and if] she gets caught on a twig or branch she just pulls away and keeps on going — no more of that crippling fear. Our girl seems happier and so are we!”

Nanni said that turning his passion for working with dogs into a sustain-

imagine doing anything else.” L

Duchess, a Cane Corso rescued from a shelter

The Soap Witch

A cleansing journey into art and science at Phoenix Artisan Soaps

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

Although Stephanie Sgroi-DeRario did not have a formal education in art, she said, “Art is embedded in me. I used to paint a lot in acrylics and oils before I had kids. I would get in a zone and paint for hours. But that didn’t work with kids around, and I missed the artistic outlet.”

Then when her daughter was born in 2018, the baby had extremely bad eczema and was in constant pain, itching and scratching. Since she was too young to take antibiotics, Sgroi-DeRario started experimenting with oatmeal baths, different lotions, and coconut oil, trying to figure out what would help. After researching, she created her own natural soap with oatmeal, honey, and goats’ milk, and her daughter’s skin healed so well that her pediatrician was impressed. Her whole family started using her homemade natural skin care products.

From household necessity to works of art

During Covid, Sgroi-DeRario started to work remotely at her full-time job. With the increased productivity and less time commuting, she had more time available and delved deeper into the craft of soapmaking.

Being an artist, Sgroi-DeRario couldn’t go with just plain bars of soap. She asked herself, “Can I make soap that people can appreciate as pieces of artwork as well?”

She started making luxury soaps with natural ingredients in beautiful designs.

“Beautiful, rich lathering soap was something I thought people would enjoy during that time, a little bit of self-pampering luxury that looked good, felt good, and smelled good.”

“I went down a rabbit hole, researching the craft and the art of soapmaking. It gave me a focus. I enjoyed it, and it gave me a therapy I didn’t know I needed at the time. I like the challenge, the constant evolution and learning. There’s a science and an art to it.”

Her products have been received with delight. Sgroi-DeRario said, “The best part of what I do is seeing everybody’s reaction. Adults, their faces light up when they see the designs. It

Soaps with shapes embedded, such as the astroanut, require a special technique. Stephanie creates a trace that is a little more solid, about the consistency of play-doh. Using an extruder, she forms long pieces (seven in the case of the astronaut) that she positions together to form the shape in a long tube. Then she partially fills the soap mold with a warm, gooey trace, places the tube in the middle and fills the rest of the space in the mold, covering the tube until it’s submerged. When the soap is later cut, the astronaut is visible as a cross section.

means a lot when they appreciate the art.”

But the bars are not just visually beautiful. There’s a story behind each bar. Sgroi-DeRario and her husband are both self-described “Harry Potter geeks”, and Sgroi-DeRario always enjoyed reading fantasy. She, as well as her husband, Mike, who works in the film industry, are both storytellers at heart. Each bar of soap has an origin in imagination.

Some designs reflect upon the past, such as the Game Boy designs - a throwback to the early ‘90s. She uses her children’s imagination as inspiration, creating dinosaur themed designs when they were enthralled with Jurassic Park, and a space-themed astronaut design when they expressed interest in space.

Phoenix Artisan Soaps

The soapmaking grew from a hobby into a business as Sgroi-DeRario found a big demand for the luxury product at local farmers markets.

“I knew I had to quit my full-time job. My husband was supportive, but even so it’s been a scary but wonderful journey. My business experience from my former job helped a lot on the business side.”

Creating the soap

Sgroi-DeRario uses a cold process to make her soap, which is traditionally how it’s been done through the ages she finds fascinating.

“I like how ancient the process is. I almost

One of Sgroi-DeRario’s favorite designs is locally inspired. She said, “Nature has a way of humbling your senses. That’s how I felt since moving to Virginia and looking out at the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountain soap, which is a layered soap, is my tribute to the beautiful landscape.

“TRACE” is what the soap batter is called once the combined ingredients have emulsified.

feel like I’m an old-time apothecary. Making the trace is like concocting a witchy potion; it feels almost mystical. Some craft soap makers call themselves ‘soap witches’.”

Creating the soap from scratch requires careful handling since it involves lye as an ingredient, which is toxic until the ingredients have undergone saponification. The lye is mixed with water and left to cool, and then combined with the butters and oils which have been melted in a double boiler and

A Wizarding Family: Stephanie and her family moved to the area in 2021 to be closer to family. Huge Harry Potter fans, they fell in love with Warrenton after attending the Warrenton Wizard Walk. They now live in the Cedar Run area, and their children, ages 5 and 7, attend P.B. Smith.

What’s in the soap?

Sgroi-DeRario researches and sources her ingredients carefully. Always all natural, with no parabens, phthalates, paraffins, or any other chemicals, they are obtained locally as much as possible through connections with producers at local farmers markets. Her goats’ milk comes from Hock Newberry Farm where they have Nubian goats whose milk has a higher fat content that makes a more luxurious soap that is better for the skin. Honey comes directly from her mom’s apiary in Jeffersonton, any flower and herb botanicals come from Sgroi-DeRario ’s own backyard garden, lavender often comes from Seven Oaks Lavender Farm, and tallow comes from American Heritage Farm. Coffee grounds, which act as natural exfoliants in the Café Mocha soap, come from The Traveling Shepard.

cooled also. Then the mixture is combined thoroughly with an emulsifier, colored, and poured into the mold. After two or three days, it is removed and cut into bars. Then it is left to cure for six weeks, a process that cannot be rushed: the longer it cures, the more water evaporates, the harder, and more long-lasting the final product.

Creating the art

The cold process allows for brighter colors and produces a trace that is more easily managed than that made with the melt-andpour method, enabling the artist to create the artistic effects and designs.

Depending on the final design of the soap, Sgroi-DeRario manipulates the consistency of the trace, ranging from a soupy mixture to a pudding texture. Soupier trace can be used to swirl different colors together, creating a light, wispy, airy design. Thicker mixtures can be layered in the mold creating more definable sections of color.

After the curing, the bars are ready to be embellished with impressions, carving, stenciling, or other techniques using a combination of pottery and baking tools.

Although it takes planning ahead, SgroiDeRario always has holiday themed and scented designs at the appropriate seasons, from Christmas and winter to Easter, spring, Fourth of July, autumn, Halloween, and more. Because of the long curing time, these have to be planned months in advance.

“I watch a lot of baking shows and videos, which give me ideas of how to get the effects I’m looking for. I use piping tools, like bakers use for frosting, to create flowers, but I have to work much faster because the soap dough hardens quickly. I also use an extruder, which is sort of like a cookie press, to make long shapes that I position into designs. I enjoy every single design I make no matter how complicated.” L

UNCOMFORTABLE ROOMS?

THE 19TH ANNUAL OF FAUQUIER

WET BASEMENT?

COMING SOON!

Local business... the heart and the lifeline our of community. From retail stores to restaurants, entertainment and service providers, these are the organizations and people who make this county a great place to live. Our annual “Best of” competition strives to highlight local businesses as voted on by you, our readers.

Voting Starts M ay 10

Dedicated Service

Warrenton Volunteer Fire Company marks 100 years

BY JOHN TOLER

The Town of Warrenton was chartered by the Virginia General Assembly in 1810, but it was not until 1924 that the county’s oldest firefighting organization – Company 1 – was established.

Warrenton’s first recorded effort to provide fire protection was in 1852, when Mayor James Vass Brooke purchased three dozen fire buckets and some ladders that were placed in convenient spots around town. The next year, eight men were employed at $1 per night, to patrol the town from 10 p.m. until daylight to prevent the outbreak of fires.

In 1872, the Warrenton Town Council appointed a committee to investigate the organization of a hook and ladder company. While the options were being studied, the Warrenton House, a hotel on Main Street, was destroyed by a fire that spread up to the corner of present-day First Street.

In response, a volunteer group called the Hook and Ladder Company of Warrenton was formed, and equipped with a four-wheel firefighting unit that was pulled to the scene of a fire by the firefighters. Later, a two-wheel reel and several hundred feet of regulation fire hose were purchased. All of the fire apparatus was housed under the Courthouse steps.

Chevrolet truck equipped with a 50-gallon chemical tank and a hose carriage costing $2,815. Charles M. Jeffries was the fire chief, but resigned after a year, and William G. Bartenstein was appointed chief.

Early in 1924, Chief Bartenstein, B. H. Smith, Alex Hamilton, Alwyn Ash, Lester Burke and C. Irvin Garrett met to discuss organization of a fire department. Citizens responded enthusiastically, and by October 1924, the company was “unofficially” in action.

The new company was given space for its equipment on the ground floor garage of the Municipal Building, located on the corner of present-day Main and N. Fourth streets. The fire alarm this time was a steam whistle located at the old Warrenton Electric and Ice Company.

On Dec. 3, 1924, an organizational meeting was held. Mr. Bartenstein was elected chief, A.S. Hamilton first lieutenant, Alwyn Ash second lieutenant, Lester Burke,

The ruins of the west end of Warrenton’s business district smolder after the Great Fire of 1909. The Courthouse and County Jail were

Ashby,

In 1891, two small fire companies were formed, one led by D. P. Wood and the other by J. A. Utterback. Mr. Wood’s company was known as the “Old Men” and Mr. Utterback’s company as the “Young Men.”

By 1909, neither fire company was very active, and by then, the only equipment in use was the two-wheel hose cart and some hose. It was not much help fighting Warrenton’s biggest fire, which happened on the night of Nov. 22, 1909, and burned much of the west end of town. A second fire the following October destroyed most of the buildings on the north end of the block bordered by Culpeper, Beckham and S. Third streets, including St. James’ Episcopal Church.

Finally, in 1921 the town council purchased its first piece of motor-driven firefighting apparatus, a 1916

Right: Acquiring used firefighting apparatus often made sense.

Shortly after the new

spared, but many of the buildings on

Waterloo and Winchester Street were lost. Burned-out shell of Carter Hall stands at left.

Above: Charter members of the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Company on one of their first pieces of firefighting apparatus, a 1926 fire truck. From left, Chief William Bartenstein, George Woodzell, Tom Frost, Chris Butler. Back row: Hugh Harris Sr., Clifton Hurst, Lee Risdon, Unk. Front row: Chester Maxheimer, Unk., C. Irvin Garrett, Allwyn Ash, Unk., Laurence Bartenstein, Thomas Coflin, Unk., Pres Ruffner.

firehouse was completed, firemen demonstrated their ladder truck, the first vehicle of that type in Fauquier County. It was purchased, used, from the City of Bristol, Va.

president, C. Irvin Garrett secretary-treasurer, and C.C. Burke official truck driver.

The WVFC grows

The infant fire company’s first fundraising effort was a minstrel show held on May 20, 1925 on the stage of the “Opera House” on Courthouse Square. About $400 was realized, and the money was applied to payments on a Seagrave 350-gallon pumper the town council had purchased.

After the minstrel shows came the firemen’s first carnival, held July 11 and 12, 1930 on the Clerk’s Office lawn. The carnival grossed $4,700 and the firemen netted about $3,500, which paid off the balance on the Seagrave and made a down payment on a new 1930 Ahrens-Fox 500-gallon pumper.

Over the years, the biggest fundraiser was the WVFC Carnival, first held in 1946. It was kicked-off with a parade of bands, floats and dozens of fire engines down Main Street, followed by the huge crowd that walked down to the carnival grounds adjacent to Benner Field.

The WVFC Ladies’ Auxiliary was started in 1929, and most of the members were wives of the firefighters. Their main objective was to support the fire company with fundraisers, the largest of which was the Ladies’ Booth at the carnival, where they sold plated meals. During the year, they sent out letters to the community soliciting donations.

ing apparatus or a payment on a fire truck.

For years, the WVFC was the only organized fire company in Fauquier, and was called to fight fires from one end of the county to the other. After Warrenton came volunteer fire companies in Remington, Marshall, The Plains, Upperville, Catlett, Goldvein, New Baltimore and Lois. Vint Hill Farms Station and the Warrenton Training Center also had fire departments that provided mutual aid.

Along with the new companies, new support systems, including communications, were needed. Until the lowband frequency fire radio system was installed in the early 1960s, emergency calls were initially taken by the local telephone company.

The radio system was originally located in the Warren Green building, and dispatched by the Warrenton Police Department. From there, the communications equipment was moved to the Sheriff’s Office in the county jail, where it was operated by county dispatchers.

A new home for the WVFC

By the time of its 50th Anniversary in 1974, the WVFC was running four pumpers, a brush truck, and a 4,000-gallon tractor-trailer tanker.

In 1955, the WVFC purchased a 5.5-acre tract on Shirley Highway where the carnival was held. Sam Tarr served as chief from 1972-1983, and during this time, discussions

From 1924 to 1977, the WVFC was headquartered in the Town Hall on Main Street. Shown with two of their trucks at the old firehouse are Albert Miller (left) and Aubrey Jenkins.

Mayor J. Willard “Bill” Lineweaver – himself a former active member of the fire company – in 1973 it was decided that the town would sell the old Municipal Building and contribute the proceeds, after expenses, to the fire company for the new firehouse. The firemen presented their plan to the Town Council in October 1975. It was approved, and construction started soon afterward.

The new facility was completed and ready for occupancy by February 1977. The WVFC had netted $65,000 from the sale of the Municipal Building, but a significant balance remained. Through the efforts of Fundraising Committee Chairman Ernest M. Oare and Finance Committee Chair man Annie Kays, the WVFC managed to pay off the entire cost of the $350,000 project by the end of September 1978.

Bingo and pancake breakfasts were held regularly as the WVFC continued to grow, generating hundreds of thou sands of dollars over the years.

organizations, the Ladies’ Auxiliary was “aging out,” with older members leaving and few new members stepping up. Their last fundraiser was a cookbook.

early 1990s. “The costs of everything kept going up, and the net kept going down,” Retired Chief Dale Koglin explained. “The carnival wasn’t just something that was thrown together overnight. Work started in January. It was a matter of man hours versus income.” The same was

true for the parade, which took months of preparation for the 1½ hour event.

In 2007, the WVFC and the Warrenton Volunteer Rescue Squad (EMS) were merged. Founded in 1958 as Company 6 and headquartered nearby in the Maximillian A. Tufts Building, the rescue squad had served the community well. The merger was seamless, and resulted in a more efficient and economical operation.

A $3.6 million expansion project, adding 25,110 square feet to the original facility, was completed in 2008.

Dedicated service

The WVFC has been blessed with a number of devoted members who have served for years, even decades.

Rev. J. Richard “Dick” Winter (1922-2022) came to Warrenton in 1951 as pastor of the Warrenton Presbyterian Church. He joined the WVFC and was trained as a firefighter and truck driver, as well as serving as the WVFC Chaplin for many years.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING OUR COMPANY AS THE BEST OF FAUQUIER FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS. WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT!

THANK YOU FOR

In 2022 – in celebration of Rev. Winter’s 100th birthday – the WVFC firehouse was named the Rev. John Richard Winter Building in his honor

Dale Koglin joined the WVFC in 1963 at age 14 as a Junior Member, at 18 he became a Senior member and rose through the ranks, and was elected Fire Chief in 1984 and 1985 A member of the Warrenton Police Department since 1971 and Police Chief from 1985 to 1999, he stayed on at the WVFC as Assistant Chief. Following his retire -

THANK YOU FOR VOTING OUR COMPANY AS BEST

APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT!

THANK

THANK YOU FOR

THANK YOU FOR VOTING OUR COMPANY AS

BEST OF FAUQUIER FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS.

FAUQUIER FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS.

APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT!

THE BEST OF FAUQUIER FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS. 6530

APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT! 6530

FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS.

YEARS.

ment from the WPD, he was elected Fire Chief again in 2002 and 2003, and retired from active duty with the WVFC in 2014 at age 65.

Koglin remembers Warrenton’s most serious fires, including the burning of the lower High Street School in 1983, the dangerous fire that destroyed the Carpet Works building across the highway from the firehouse in 1987, and the fire that destroyed the clubhouse at the Fauquier Springs Country Club in 1990.

Current Fire Chief Kevin Swain lived in the house behind the Carpet Works and witnessed the fire and heroic efforts to contain it. In 1987 – also at age 14 – he joined the WVFC as a junior member, as well as a Work Study Intern at the Fauquier County Office of Emergency Services. He was elected Fire Chief from 2000-2002 and 2009, and has served as chief since 2020.

Four career personnel have worked at the rescue squad facility since 2009 and three at the firehouse since 2020. The arrangement has worked out well, as some of their career personnel are from Fauquier County and got their start as volunteers. “We’re very fortunate for the career people we got,” said Swain.

For the past 100 years, the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Company has faced many challenges and worked through many changes. But we can sleep well at night, knowing that the dedicated men and women who provide our firefighting and emergency medical services will be there when we need them. L

The past, present and future of the WVFC is represented in front of the firehouse: From left: Retired Chief Dale Koglin, Junior Member Hayden Hardcastle, and current Chief Kevin Swain. Both Koglin and Swain joined the fire company as Junior Members at age 14, and have served with the WVFC ever since.

Established in 1958, the Warrenton Volunteer Rescue Squad merged with the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Company in 2007. In the early 1980s photo above, rescue squad men Jack Toler, ‘Peanut’ Gouldthorpe and Justin Clayton check the equipment of the newly acquired Squad 6 heavy rescue vehicle.

our government at work

What exactly does Scott Hook do all day?

A lot. A chat with Fauquier County’s Commonwealth’s Attorney

BY PAM KAMPHUIS | PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

There are a lot of misconceptions about Scott Hook’s job. The terminology doesn’t help: What exactly is a Commonwealth’s Attorney?

And it’s not a typo. The name is indeed possessive, as in the attorney belongs to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Most people would more readily recognize (probably from television) the term District Attorney, or D.A., which is the same job. It is an elected position.

In a nutshell, Commonwealth’s Attorneys prosecute those accused of crimes, advocate for and protect the victims of crime, and maintain

public safety by ensuring convicted violent offenders cannot be a threat to the community.

But it can also be a Catch-22. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must also ensure the constitutional and legal rights of the accused, which include protection from unreasonable search and seizure, the right to remain silent, and the right to a speedy, fair, public trial.

Warrenton Lifestyle talked with Scott Hook, Commonwealth’s Attorney of Fauquier County since 2019, to familiarize readers with his role in our county.

Why did you decide to run for the office of Commonwealth’s Attorney?

I had a close friend who died of a fentanyl overdose. I have three kids, and I want this community to be as safe as it was when I grew up here.

What kind of law did you practice before becoming Commonwealth’s Attorney?

I graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law in Newark, New Jersey, so I’ve been practicing for 18years. I’ve done a little bit of everything: criminal defense, repre -

7722

"I cannot speak highly

senting banks, homeowners, corporations, and estate work. I do miss that sometimes, working with deeds and being in the records room.

How did that prepare you for this position?

My experience as a defense attorney was probably the most helpful. As a prosecutor, you’re looking to find a weakness in the defense attorney’s case. I can look at things from both sides. Sometimes other prosecutors will ask me to look at their cases from the perspective of a defense attorney so they can strengthen their case.

How would you describe your role as Commonwealth’s Attorney?

There are three main components that are the majority of my focus: criminal prosecutions, conflict of interest cases, and maintaining voter integrity.

What is involved in maintaining voter integrity?

"I cannot

highly enough about my buying and selling experience with Angela Smoot. Angela goes above and

When selling our house, she meticulously staged

and helped make sure it was in top-showing condition. Though we received multiple offers over listing price, she encouraged us to be patient and helped us choose an offer that exceeded our expectations. When we purchased our new home, Angela helped us navigate the fast-paced market and made sure we were able to visit the houses we wanted to see on short notice. She was our advocate in

experience with Angela Smoot. Angela goes above and beyond. When selling our house, she meticulously staged the home and helped make sure it was in top-showing condition. Though we received multiple offers over listing price, she encouraged us to be patient and helped us choose an offer that exceeded our expectations. When we purchased our new home, Angela helped us navigate the fast-paced market and made sure we were able to visit the houses we wanted to see on short notice. She was our advocate in every stage of the process, lessening the stress of relocating. Angela's expertise and compassion truly set her apart; she is fantastic!"

Step into timeless elegance with this impeccably updated circa 1931 home! Boasting 4BR/2.5BA and over 3,800 sqft, it features a newer attached 2-car garage and separate carriage house, all on 5.38 acres of picturesque land. The carriage house offers a beautifully renovated 1BR/1BA apartment, perfect for guests or rental income, along with a 2-car garage. Inside, discover hardwood floors, custom moldings, fully updated Gourmet Kitchen, and upgrades galore! Experience serene countryside living with urban convenience. This turnkey property, with schools, shopping, and dining nearby, is ready for you!

Maintaining voter integrity involves preventing ineligible people from registering to vote. This is more complicated than it sounds because of the Division of Motor Vehicles. Ninety five percent of people don’t know this, but when you apply for or renew a driver’s license, or register a vehicle, you are automatically registered to vote. The purpose of this was to encourage and simplify the voter registration process. But it can have glitches, such as for convicted felons who are ineligible to vote. I received a notice once that a felon had registered to vote seven times. It turned out that he owned a landscaping business and had bought some new equipment, seven vehicles, so when he registered them at the DMV he was registered to vote seven times. Also, attempting to register to vote as a felon is in itself another felony. So, I spend some time untangling these situations.

How closely do you work with law enforcement?

Another aspect of the job involves keeping law enforcement up to date on any changes in Constitutional law that affect how they do their job. For instance, at one point officers could perform a traffic stop for a missing tail light. The law has changed, and now both tail lights must be out in order for an officer to legally perform a traffic stop. This seems like a small thing, but it can have consequences in prosecuting a case. In the event that an officer performs an illegal traffic stop, no matter what evidence they find in the car or how serious, it is not admissible in court and cannot be prosecuted. It’s called the fruit of the poison tree. It can really tie my hands. I can’t do my job if I can’t get evidence legally.

What else is involved in the position?

Over the years more and more things that don’t seem to fit anyone else’s job are put on the local Commonwealth’s Attorney. For instance, I am in charge of apple enforcement. There was someone in the Commonwealth that was marketing one type of apples as another type of apples, which is fraud. So they put me in charge of apple injunctions. And Virginia Commonwealth’s Attorneys are also tasked with stopping pollution, or trash dumping, in the Big Sandy River. I didn’t know where the Big Sandy River was, and I haven’t run across it yet. I am also able to bring injunctions for prostitution, which I’ve never had to do, injunctions against bawdy houses, which I think is a statute dating from the 1920s, and speakeasies. It can be pretty random.

Do you go to crime scenes?

Yes, I do go in some big cases, and always for murder cases. It’s invaluable to know the facts from firsthand experience; being able to see the layout with your own eyes makes you understand the crime scene much better than seeing it in photos.

How emotional is the job?

It can be very emotional. Of course, in court you have to keep it in check, but some things really do get to me. I once saw a mur-

dered six-year-old boy on the autopsy table. That will never leave me.

Do you attend autopsies often?

I always do in murder cases. Being there to watch the medical examiner is so important. They can show me exactly what they find, right at that “Aha” moment. Science is so refined, and it keeps getting better, it can be interesting.

What is the hardest thing?

One hundred percent it’s the child victims. No matter what sort of crime it is, whatever happened to them, the child victims are the hardest.”

Does living here and being part of the community make your job easier or harder?

Both, actually. Sometimes it helps, having relationships with people in the community. Then sometimes people I prosecute are sitting next to me at a restaurant. But for the most part it’s pleasant, with no big confrontations. I also have a good professional relationship with other lawyers, which is not always the case in other places.

What are some misconceptions about your position?

The biggest one is that some think I am in charge of criminal investigations and my

office brings criminal charges. While I can bring felony indictments, typically, it is law enforcement that brings criminal charges, then we come in after that. I have a great relationship with our law enforcement, it’s something I really strive for. Law enforcement is like a coin, the officers are one side of it, and I am the other.

Do you often go to court, or do your staff prosecutors handle that?

I try to be in court as much as I can. I like trying cases. I am one of nine lawyers in my office and am in court often. You also get the pulse of the community when you’re in General District Court. We are lucky in this county because our court system works smoothly, which is not always the case in other courts. The county is well staffed, and we assign dockets months in advance, so my prosecutors are well prepared. We have good judges, and we maintain a good flow so there’s not a lot of waiting around.

Will you run for this office again when your term expires?

Yes. There are no term limits, so I’ll continue to run as long as I enjoy my job and the citizens vote for me. L

TOP 10 Fauquier’s

Top Sales

The ten highest-priced homes that sold between mid-February and mid-March in Fauquier County. Data and photos from Zillow.com.

7163 YOUNG RD., THE PLAINS

$5,100,000

Sold: March 6

3 bedrooms

4 full bath, 2 half bath 10,119 square feet

8457 OAKS RD., WARRENTON

$4,200,000

Sold: March 8

7 bedrooms

5 full bath, 3 half bath

7787 GREENWICH RD., CATLETT

$1,401,000

Sold: Feb. 27

5 bedrooms

3.5+ bathrooms

3,392 square feet

54.55 acres

1143 CROFTON LN., UPPERVILLE

$1,248,000

Sold: March 12

6 bedrooms 5.5 bathrooms 6,000 square feet 1.07 acres

5452 WESTFIELD CT., WARRENTON

$1,165,000

Sold: Feb. 20

5 bedrooms

THIS MONTH’S REAL ESTATE ROUNDUP BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Contact: Jim Kelly, Sales Director jim@whglifestyle.com | 434-987-3542

Cindy

The Big Picture

The number of sales in the Greater Piedmont market has fallen to its lowest level in 2 years, with a 12.9% decline from last year. Inventory levels have also continued to decline, with a 11.5% decrease year-over-year. However, we did see the median sales price rise sharply in January to $550,000, which is a 15.8% increase. Although the overall supply continues to be tight, we are seeing signs of pent-up demand.

—Greater Piedmont REALTORS® 2024 President Steve Gardner

The January Details for Fauquier County

Compared to January 2023

Median Sales Price: $625,000, up 20%

Sales Activity: 45, down 14%

Days on Market: 38, down 6%

Greater Piedmont REALTORS® is a trade association representing 650 REALTORS® in Fauquier, Culpeper, Rappahannock, and Madison counties.

402 CULPEPER ST., WARRENTON

$1,130,000

Sold: March 6

6 bedrooms

6.5 bathrooms

8,175 square feet

8.80 acres

8582 SPRINGS DR., WARRENTON

$1,010,000

Sold: March 1

2 bedrooms

2 bathrooms

1,150 square feet

1.10 acres

8838 WALES RD., WARRENTON

$1,000,000

Sold: March 11

4 bedrooms

3 full bath, 2 half bath

2,872 square feet

10.78 acres

4596 SUMERDUCK RD., SUMERDUCK

$950,000

Sold: March 20

4 bedrooms

3 bathrooms

3,112 square feet

54.21 acres

7290 JOFFA CIR., WARRENTON

$930,000

Sold: March 15

6 bedrooms

4.5 bathrooms

6,602 square feet

0.58 acre lot

wine&dine

Delicious Breakfast Casseroles & Meatless Meat

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

I love weekends. I can stay in my PJs, sip a glass of wine (or two) and read cookbooks by the bushel, devouring them like trashy novels. I keep the TV on for background noise and think about food all day long. Today I’m thinking about overnight breakfast casseroles and meat free recipes so good they’ll never miss the meat. Let’s get into the kitchen!

English Muffin Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Cozy up to the morning with warm and inviting breakfast casserole. Prep the day before. Refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning while you relax over a second cup of coffee.

SERVES 6

USES A 9 X 13

]NONMETAL PAN

INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon pepper (divided)

6 cloves garlic

2 onions (diced – about 2 cups)

10 - 12 oz. frozen chopped spinach (drained)

8 oz. cream cheese (softened)

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided)

Pinch nutmeg

10 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1 2/3 cups Half & Half

6 English Muffins

1 pound deli ham

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add ¼ teaspoon pepper, garlic and onions. Cook on low, stirring, until onions are soft.

2. Stir in spinach. Continue cooking to evaporate any moisture – about 2 minutes. Stir in cream cheese, ½ cup parmesan and nutmeg till cream cheese is melted. Remove ¼ cup and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt and Half & Half. Stir in reserved ¼ cup reserved spinach mix.

4. Grease pan or mist with cooking spray. Arrange English muffin bottoms in the pan cut side up. Divide ham evenly on each. Dollop with cheese mixture. Cover with muffin tops forming 6 sandwiches. Pour egg mixture over muffins. Cover. Refrigerate overnight.

5. Next day, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake (uncovered) 45 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup parmesan. Continue baking till eggs are set to a light touch – about 15 minutes more.

Overnight Cheddar Biscuits with Mushroom - Sausage Gravy

A classic made fancy.

SERVES 6 TO 8

USES A 9 X 13 NONMETAL

BAKING PAN

BISCUIT MIX INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 Tablespoons corn starch

4 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¾ teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups shredded orange cheddar

1 stick cold butter (grated)

BISCUIT MIX DIRECTIONS

Toss ingredients together. Refrigerate (covered) overnight.

GRAVY INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

1 pound breakfast sausage

8 oz. sliced fresh mushrooms

1 onion (chopped)

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

1 Tablespoon garlic powder

4 ½ cups milk

(Plus 3 Tablespoons additional milk for drizzling)

FOR BISCUIT DOUGH

¾ cup milk

1 Tablespoon vinegar

DIRECTIONS

1. Grease baking pan or mist with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add sausage, mushrooms and onion. Cook on low (stirring) until sausage is done and veggies are soft – about 10 minutes. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 1 minute. Whisk in 4 ½ cups milk. Cook (whisking) until bubbly and thickened – about 3 minutes. Pour into prepared pan. Drizzle with 3 Tablespoons milk, swirling pan to coat top. (Prevents skin from forming.) Cool. Cover with foil. Refrigerate overnight.

3. Next day put pan of gravy (covered) into cold oven. Set oven to 375 degrees. Bake 35 minutes. Remove from oven. Stir gravy then dollop with biscuit dough.

BISCUIT DOUGH

Stir milk and vinegar into biscuit mix. Dollop 12 (1/4 cup size) biscuits onto hot gravy. Return to oven. Bake (uncovered) till biscuits brown and gravy bubbles – about 35 minutes.

Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

Surprise your meat and potato lovers, they’ll never miss the meat! Scrumptious! Substitute any color pepper or use a combo of colors.

SERVES 4 TO 6

USES A DEEP POT WITH LID OR DUTCH OVEN

SAUCE INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon pepper

6 Tablespoons brown sugar

1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes with juice

1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes

3 cups vegetable stock

SAUCE DIRECTIONS

Stir ingredients together in pot. Simmer (partially covered) on medium while stuffing peppers.

STUFFED PEPPERS INGREDIENTS

4 to 6 green peppers

2 cups cooked rice

3 carrots (peeled and shredded –about 2 cups)

2 eggs

¼ cup bread crumbs

16 oz. Velveeta

DIRECTIONS FOR STUFFING THE PEPPERS

1. Cut tops off peppers. Discard seeds.

2. In a large bowl, mix rice, carrot, eggs and bread crumbs. Lightly pack into peppers, dividing evenly. Stand stuffed peppers upright in sauce. Simmer, partially covered, until peppers are soft and sauce is reduced to a thickness you like – about 45 minutes. (Stir often to prevent burning.)

3. Add Velveeta in chunks. Simmer until melted –about 10 minutes more.

No Meat Taco Meat

Make taco night meat-free with this surprisingly good meat- free meat. Nachos and burritos, too!

MAKES 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 cups pecans (other nuts or seeds not recommended)

1 cup diced onions

2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons oregano

2 teaspoons chili powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon pepper

2 Tablespoons soy sauce

DIRECTIONS

Put olive oil and pecans in a large skillet. Cook on low, stirring, until fragrant – about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Cool. Pulse in food processor till it resembles ground meat – 30 to 45 seconds. Over processing makes it mushy.

Perfect for Passover Quiche

Passover is in April and my no crust quiche is a gracious addition to every cook’s repertoire whether you observe Passover or not.

MAKES 1 (9”) DEEP DISH QUICHE

SERVES 6 TO 8

PAN SIZE: 9 “ROUND X 2 ¼” DEEP PIE PAN (SEE COOK’S TIP BELOW)

INGREDIENTS

1 small head cauliflower (washed, drained and damp)

1 ¾ cups heavy cream

1 teaspoon salt

6 eggs

5 oz. your fav natural cheese, shredded (about 1½ cups)

DIRECTIONS

1. Mist pan with baking spray. Cut damp cauliflower into ½” pieces. Measure 4 cups and put into pan. A little more or less is OK. Cover. Microwave till soft – about 5 minutes. Remove cover. Whisk remaining ingredients together. Pour over cauliflower. Cool, cover and refrigerate overnight.

2. Next day, preheat oven to 325 degree and bake (uncovered) until center is set to a light touch –45 to 50 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before cutting.

COOK’S TIP

9” pie pans come in 2 depths – Regular (1.5 inches) or Deep Dish (2.25 inches). If your pan is not deep dish, you’ll have leftover custard. Bake it separately in a buttered custard cup until set to a light touch. L

wine&dine

Serving up a Spring Citrus Siesta

BY DANIEL DUCA

They say that April showers bring May flowers, but that’s looking a bit too far ahead for my taste. Why worry about all that change and unpredictability when there’s plenty of good right in front of us?

As spring ticks on, it’s always a temptation to rush through and get to summer. But there’s really no need. Relax, have a drink, take a siesta. Maybe do it all at the same time.

Whatever you do though, keep it light, because although life is serious, sometimes it’s really not all that serious. I think April’s like that. Cheers.

DANIEL DUCA is the founder and head bartender at Duca Bar Company, a highend private event bartending service. W: calendly.com/ducabarcompany/ consultationcall I: @ducabarcompany P: 540-729-7667

Siesta

1.5 oz. Blanco Tequila

.5 oz. Grapefruit Juice

.75 oz. Lime Juice

.75 oz. Simple Syrup

.25 oz. Campari

Add ingredients into a shaker tin with ice, shake, and fine strain into a chilled coupe. Express and garnish with a wedge of ime or grapefruit.

French 75

.5 oz. Simple Syrup

.5 oz. Lemon Juice

1 oz. Gin

Add ingredients into a shaker tin with ice, shake, and fine strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with champagne. Express and garnish with a lemon twist.