Country Zest and Style October 2021 Edition

FALL 2021

HORSEMEN HARRIS TRACY AND CHRIS KOLB

ARE RIGHT ON TRACK

Personalities, Celebrations and Sporting Pursuits

INSIDE: MOLLY MORGAN’S MISSION ANTWAN MONTFORD’S SERVICE MIGHTY TREES OF UPPERVILLE

110 E. Washington St. | P.O. Box 1380 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | 540.687.5588 | sheridanmacmahon.com

ALL’S WELL FARM MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

Prime Fauquier County location on the Atoka Road | 88.34 acres with bold Blue Ridge views | Neoclassical brick home with slate roof completely updated & expanded | 5 BR, 5 full, 2 half baths, 5 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen | 10 stall barn with attached indoor arena | Pool, pool house, tenant house | Beautiful gardens | Superb condition

$7,500,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

HALFWAY FARM THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Privacy and 107 acres between Middleburg and The Plains | Residential enclave of great character within a rich array of natural resources | Classic Virginia stone and stucco c. 1820 | 4 bedrooms, antique floors and rich pine paneling | Two guest houses, stone cottage, farm manager’s house, 2 stables, machine shed and work shop | Extensive Little River frontage and 2 ponds | Tremendous views

$3,975,000 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

OLD WINCHESTER ROAD CLARKE COUNTY, VIRGINIA

51 acre horse farm | Well-built custom stone and wood ranch house | 4100+ sq ft, 3 BR, 3 1/2 BA | Generously sized rooms | One level living, no stairs | Whole house generator | Beautiful views of the Blue Ridge | Six stall barn with 1 BR groom’s apartment | All barn stalls foaling size 12’ x 16’ | 185’ x 250’ ring with good footing | Good ride-out | 1.8 miles from Boyce | Property is in conservation easement

$1,250,000 ToM coMMack 540.247.5408

RUTLEDGE FARM MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Premier Middleburg estate | Main house of stone and frame construction circa 1740 w/addition in 1820. 6 BR, 3 1/2 BA, 5 FP, high ceilings, moldings & detailed woodwork throughout | Equestrian facilities are unmatched | 113 lush acres. 5 barns totaling 35 stalls | 19 paddocks | Derby field | 218 x 80 indoor arena | 250 x 150 all-weather outdoor arena | 80’ lunging arena | Polo field (or 2 grand prix fields) | 4 board, double fencing & automated nelson waterers | Other improvements include 3 BR, 2 1/2 BA guest house | Farm office attached to 3 BR house | Machine shed | Carriage house w/apartment | Stone spring house/office | 3 BR apartment | Pond with gazebo

$7,000,000

50 WEST VINEYARDS MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Existing farm winery established in 2015 | 38.47 acres recorded in two parcels | Hilltop setting with magnificent views | 2,500 sq ft wine tasting room, main level consists of tasting room, seating areas, kitchen, restrooms | 2nd story more seating areas & bathroom | Club House of 5,100 sq ft contemporary style, wine tasting bar, seating areas, bathrooms, large deck, terrace & pool | 40 x 60 Butler building, large parking area | Unique opportunity

$4,500,000

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Sandra Bravo GreenBerG 202.308.3813

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

DEERFIELD

LONG BRANCH

UPPERVILLE, VIRGINIA

Stately brick manor house c.1844 | 4 bedrooms, lovely kitchen, multiple porches, beautiful pine floors, 7 fireplaces, original mantels, large windows and detailed millwork throughout | Great natural light in every room | Additional outbuildings include the c. 1810 log cabin used as the pool house & a converted barn now serves as a guest house with movie theatre | 2 ponds, miles of trails, 178 acres | Separate workshop and 5 car garage

THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

Gorgeous 71 acre parcel in a wonderful location between Middleburg and The Plains | Rolling land with stone walls and 2 ponds | Enchanting property | Property is in conservation easement and may not be divided further

$1,950,000 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

$3,900,000 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

BUTTERLAND FARM UNISON, VIRGINIA

Butterland Farm circa 1790 Quaker farm house in the village of Unison on 8.16 acres | Beautiful floors throughout, 3 fireplaces, 2 bedrooms plus den, 2 1/2 baths | Lovely gardens, mostly open land, board fencing | Improvements include barn, garage, studio and secluded garden swimming pool

$1,100,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

NEWLIN MILL ROAD MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Prepare to be impressed - lovely floors, granite counters, high ceilings | 2 main level primary suites | Professionally decorated & landscaped | Over sized 2 car garage | Charming covered porch with iron railing, patio, trex decking, gas fireplace | Bright and open floor plan, easy to maintain, elegant finishes throughout | Endless upgrades

$595,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

Stone walls flank gravel Millville Road in western Loudoun County.

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Photo by Wild Light Photos

America’s Routes Fights to Save Loudoun’s Rural Roads

By Linda Roberts

he bumper sticker on Doug Graham’s car reads, “I love Loudoun’s Rural Roads.” The slogan is the launch pad for Graham’s long-standing passion for keeping unpaved the miles of Loudoun’s gravel roads lacing the western part of the county.

Graham’s love affair with dirt roads peaked in the 1980s when, as a news photographer, he frequently traveled the back roads of the county on assignments.

“I was always fascinated by dirt roads, but I was totally hooked after driving the Old Waterford Road out of Leesburg and found it quaint, charming and visually appealing,” Graham said.

Watching as development began claiming parts of the county, Graham knew those roads would eventually disappear unless action was taken. That concern, coupled with his talents as a photojournalist, led him to consider publishing a book filled with striking images of life along Loudoun’s rural roads.

Fast forward to 2018 when Graham met with a handful of like-minded individuals that included journalist Danielle Nadler, writer and editor Emily Houston, preservationists Jane Covington and Mitch Diamond and historian Richard Gillespie.

The need for an immediate, widespread call to action came to life, and the America’s Routes organization was born. Graham temporarily shelved his book project to focus on the newly founded 501(c)3 organization capable of bringing widespread attention to the looming plight of Loudoun’s rural back roads. The America’s Routes website was launched, with immediate public feedback.

Often the bane of motorists who find the winding, bumpy roads ill-suited to today’s need for speed, the unpaved roads comprise a fragile network of dirt and gravel stretches that piece together some 300 miles of travel and history. It’s believed to be the largest such network in the country.

In collaboration with Jay Korff of ABC News, Graham, a longtime cyclist, hit the road on his bike, along with three days’ worth of camping gear, to embrace firsthand Loudoun’s rural roads. Their intent was to create a video entitled “The Long Road Home,” a documentary depicting life along the gravel roadways. The video quickly caught the attention of area and national media and is now posted on America’s Routes website.

Calls came in from across the country. The video also earned the Edward R. Murrow award in 2019, an Emmy Award and Virginia Press Association honors. Last year Preservation Virginia placed Loudoun’s rural roads on its most endangered list.

For the past several years runners, walkers, horseback riders, moms pushing strollers, and farmers moving livestock from one pasture to another were joined by over 500 cyclists for the one-day annual 1725 Gravel Grinder, a long distance bike ride over Loudoun’s rural roads in support of America’s Routes.

Graham, who has “never stopped loving the gravel roads and appreciating their historic value,” is pointing toward another coveted prize. The organization’s small team of directors hopes to qualify for placement on the National Register of Historic Places. That would open up funding for America’s Route to continue its mission to leave the gravel roads unpaved.

Graham is still hoping to produce a book, “Stories from the Road,” and said, “if we lose these roads, we’ll lose our identity. They’re the character of what makes Loudoun unique.”

For additional information on America’s Routes visit americasroutes.com or contact Graham at wgwildlightphotos1@gmail.com or 540-467-2277.

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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ZES ST T & Sty t lel

Country

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of NOTE

ZEST & Style ZES ST TStytlel &

Country

Personalities, Celebrations and Sporting Pursuits © 2021 Country ZEST & Style, LLC. Published six times a year

MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 798 Middleburg, Virginia 20118 PHONE: 410-570-8447 Editor: Leonard Shapiro, badgerlen@aol.com Wine Editor: Peter Leonard-Morgan Food Editor: Daniela Anderson Art Director Meredith Hancock Hancock Media @mhancockmedia

Contributing Photographers: Crowell Hadden, Sarah Huntington, Doug Gehlsen, Missy Janes Douglas Lees, Karen Monroe and Tiffany Dillon Keen Contributing Writers: David Augenblick, Pat Reilly, Anita Sherman, Carina Elgin, Caroline Fout, Emma Boyce, Jimmy Hatcher, Philip Dudley, Jimmy Wofford, Jodi Nash, John Sherman, John Toler, Kevin Ramundo, Leslie VanSant, Linda Roberts, Louisa Woodville, M.J. McAteer, Melissa Phipps, Mike du Pont, Sean Clancy, Tom Northrup

For advertising inquiries, contact: Leonard Shapiro at badgerlen@aol.com or 410-570-8447

ON THE COVER For the cover of this issue, my typical lighting setup was used with two strobes and attached softboxes. However, I’m still a little old school in setting the lighting with my trusty Sekonic light meter. I’ve used light meters for film many years ago, and the need for them has waned since photography has gone mostly digital with the instant image review. With the light meter, I can set my lighting and the balance between lights before the subject even arrives. The light meter will tell me the correct shutter speed, aperture, ISO, strobe strength, and I can set my camera accordingly. Another advantage of light meters: they’ll measure the mix of strobe and ambient light. This is very useful to make sure that only the strobes are providing all of the lighting and ambient light is blocked off with a high shutter speed. Photo by Doug Gehlsen Middleburg Photo, styled by Karen Monroe. / Country Zest and Style

/ @countryzestandstyle

/ @countryzestand1

www.countryzestandstyle.com 4

for the hummingbird.

Country

Distributed and mailed throughout the Virginia countryside and in Washington and at key Sporting Pursuits and Celebrations

e

ZE

BE ON THE LOOKOUT through this Country issue of

He appears in two ads and the first two readers to find him (one each) will receive a gift from THE RED TRUCK Rural Bakery, with locations in Warrenton and Marshall. Send your reply to badgerlen@aol.com.

SOME CURIOUS THOUGHTS

W

henever I speak about the media business to high school and college students, invariably the question is asked: “what’s the No. 1 attribute a journalist should have.”

Easy answer.

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but in my mind, it’s the most valuable trait for anyone involved in print or broadcast news gathering.

Me and Jack I’m also a firm believer in what one of my professors said years ago in an introductory journalism class at my alma mater, the University of Wisconsin.

“There’s no such thing as a stupid question,” Professor Vernon Stone said.

“Especially if you don’t know the answer.”

That’s why, when I interviewed Jack Nicklaus for The Washington Post a few weeks ago at Creighton Farms, where he came in for a charity event benefitting his foundation, my first question was “what’s up with the cane?” The Golden Bear had tripped playing pickle ball of all things, but the good news was that the cane was only temporary. He’ll ditch pickle ball, too.

By the way, my wife, author and journalist Vicky Moon, grew up in Fort Lauderdale and lived just across the canal from the Nicklaus family home for many years. She’s also the curious type. She was at the Middleburg Training Center one recent early morning when she noticed a rider getting off a horse who looked far older than any of his colleagues. He was. She asked “how old?”

So check out the cover photo and read all about 74-year-old Harris Tracy, a gifted local riding legend still galloping horses after all these years.

A few months ago, in the parking lot behind Common Grounds in Middleburg, Mark Metzger, the gregarious proprietor of Highcliffe Clothiers, was loading a U-Haul trailer with fishing gear. I had to ask him why?

His answer turned into a story in this issue on Mark’s particular passion—carp fishing. Who knew?

In our summer issue, we ran a short profile on Peter Pejacsevich, co-founder of Middleburg Real Estate/Atoka Properties.

During the interview, I noticed a color photo of a race car on his office wall and asked, what’s that about?”

Turns out, Peter and three Middleburg friends have formed an endurance auto racing team, competing at some of America’s most iconic motorsports tracks. For the story and photos, keep turning the pages.

Our writers and photographers at Country ZEST often suggest stories and photos sparked by their own curiosity. This edition is loaded with them, and I’m certain they didn’t ask any “stupid questions” either.

Photo by Lisa Catlett So add a little ZEST to your reading pleasure, More than 350 cyclists particiand if you’ve also got that curious gene and come upon what you think might make an interesting pated in the Land Trust of Virginstory, let us know. We may even want you to ask ia’s round trip Tour de Conservation Easement Gravel Ride from the questions and then write it, byline included.

Buchanan Hall in Upperville.

Leonard Shapiro Forty volunteers spearheaded Editor

by Mariette Vanderzon and Michael Catlett helped make it all badgerlen@aol.com a huge success, with more than 410-570-8447 $30,000 raised.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

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Spectacular Country Estate encompasses 30 gorgeous acres of manicured lawns, lush woodlands and towering trees.

Superbly built in a classic Tuscan style architecture, it includes 5 bedrooms 8 1/2 baths, 8 fireplaces and wood, stone and marble floors. Offering 11,000 sq.ft. of spectacular living space on two levels with an additional, extraordinary, 5,000 sq.ft. of finished space on the walkout level. The property includes fabulous heated pool & Jacuzzi, a separate 2500 sq. ft. guest house (featuring 4 BR’s, modern kitchen, fireplace, HW floors) an adjacent 8 stall center aisle stable and run-in shed.

All in a beautiful setting with magnificent mountain views!

Chestnut Hill

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Ideally located just north of historic Middleburg, this stunning custom colonial presides over 37+ acres of brilliant gardens, lush pastures and majestic towering trees. This charming 12 room residence offers 6240 square feet of spectacular living space with 10 foot ceilings, four spacious bedrooms, four and ½ baths, wood burning fireplaces and gourmet country kitchen. A 6 stall stable and board fenced paddocks with Blue Ridge Mountain views complete this extraordinary country estate.

Jim McGowan 703-927-0233

Mary Ann McGowan 540-270-1124

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Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations

2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | Fax: 540-687-8899 | thomasandtalbot.com Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

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Photo by Vicky Moon

Photo by Coady

At Saratoga Gordie Keys spent some time reading The Saratoga Special

Gordie Keys’ Grateful Bred won The Meadow Stable Stakes at Colonial Downs

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By Leonard Shapiro

ot long before his then 3-year-old homebred gelding was being prepared to run in his first ever race, owner Gordie Keys went over to the Middleburg Training Center to catch a workout. Clearly, he liked what he saw that day, not to mention the last two years since Grateful Bred began collecting significant purse money,

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After witnessing that session, Keys consulted with trainer Madison Meyers, who thought it might be wise to schedule one more workout, and enter him in his first race. Keys disagreed.

“Let’s run him now, get the workout in the race,” he said, a decision that paid off nicely when Grateful Bred won at Laurel in Maryland, and shows little sign of slowing down any time soon.

This past July 9, the now 5-year-old named by Keys’ wife, Robin and her son, David, both long-time fans of the Grateful Dead, was at Colonial Downs for his opening day race in the $100,000 Meadow Stable Stakes over five furlongs on the turf. He went off as the 2 to 1 favorite in a field of ten in a race for horses 3 and older. He won by 2 1/4 lengths.

Meyers, who has specialized in steeplechase training, said, “It’s pretty important and exciting to get my first stakes win. I can’t thank Mr. Keys enough for giving me a chance with a horse like this. We only have a handful of horses, so for him to leave him with me and let us go down this route is very special.”

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And very special to Keys, as well. The Olney, Maryland native has been involved in either Thoroughbred or steeplechase racing for most of his life. And Grateful Bred, he said, is the best horse he’s ever had.

He’s by Great Notion out of Malibu Moment (by Malibu Moon). Keys stabled the mare on his Beaver Dam Farm near Middleburg for more than ten years.

Malibu Moment died two years ago, and Grateful Bred was her final foal.

The horse was broken as a 2-year-old by Keys grandson, Sam, and Keys admitted: “We didn’t realize how good he was at first. He didn’t show anything special until we started running him.”

Keys took particular pleasure in winning that stakes, pushing his career earnings to $179,765. He knew many of the owners of horses in the same field, and most had high hopes. Keys did, too, so much so that he told his son, Chandler, who lives near Annapolis, to come to Colonial Downs and bring grandsons, Gordon, 9, and Theo 7, because he also had a good feeling.

“He won pretty easily, a nice win,” said Keys, who also had a $100 wager on Grateful Bred to win. That was pretty nice, too.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

10.23.21

OCTOBER 23, 2021 GREAT MEADOW, THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA • Gates open at 10am, first of eight races at 12 noon.

• Races run rain or shine.

• Pari-mutuel betting, bring your cash.

• Questions, please call 540.347.2612

vagoldcup.com Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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THE AUGUST Wasabi

Photo by Valerie Embrey

The stillness of dawn transforms into a day of racing at “The Spa.”

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By Vicky Moon

or anyone who loves thoroughbred horse racing, it’s all about Saratoga Springs in upstate New York.

The late, great Bill Nack wrote in Sports Illustrated that fellow sportswriter Red Smith once told him how to get to this magic place: “Red Smith’s standard directions for getting to the track still work: From New York City, you drive north on the Thruway for about 175 miles, turn off at Exit 14, take Union Avenue heading west and go back about 100 years.”* Those directions have worked for two members of the Country ZEST staff for decades. So, here we go, with apologies if you were there and we missed you.

We began at a reception for Virginia Tech’s Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center. Attendees

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Photo by Maureen Conroy Britell

Knicks Go won the Whitney Stakes

included Michael Erskine, director and professor; Susie and Wayne Chatfield-Taylor; Richard Garagliano and his daughter, Laura Gargagliano Bartee, a Warrenton-based architect, horse lover and mother of upcoming equestrian Maddie; steeplechase trainer Doug Fout; Steffanie Burgevin; and, with many thanks to hostess Peggy Steinman with her 2021 Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show Champion Wasabi, a three-year-old black masked red male Pekingese who also put in an appearance at the track one day.

A bevy of beauties from Middleburg made the trek: Maureen Conroy Britell, Shannon Elaine Casey and Sabrina Moore arrived in time to see Knick’s Go, bred by Moore, win the Whitney Stakes.

Then it was on to the 100th edition of the FasigTipton Selected Yearling sales at the Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion. Out in the courtyard is the perfect place to see the horses as well as fabulous friends

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

near the Man o’ War restaurant or the snack bar.

Jane Covington was with Emily Hannum and her daughter, Chloe. And, happy to have our great pals, Robin and Gordie Keys nearby. John Stuart from “over the mountain” and wife Douglas Wise were there, too.

Add to this list trainer Jonathan Thomas, who had a gate-to-wire win for first time starter two-year old filly Benbang. Our neighbor, Jim Fitzgerald of Chilly Bleak Farm, is coordinating a weanling to yearling pin-hooking partnership. And, Woodberry Payne from Orange was doing everything, as was Gregg Ryan and Summers Thomas. And oh my, suddenly I can’t breathe, there’s ANGEL CORDERO. On the backside, we chatted with National Steeplechase Association Director of Racing Bill Gallo and Adam Newman of Flying Elvis Stables, who owns several jumping horses trained by Neil Morris. One afternoon at the races we spotted an

PLACE TO BE Photo by Vicky Moon

Photo by Vicky Moon

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

Steffanie Burgevin and Sonny Via

Chris Gracie with a future auction possibility

Angel Cordero

Photo by Vicky Moon

Photo by Vicky Moon

Photo by Vicky Moon

Fauci the horse

Adam Newman and Bill Gallo on the backside one morning

Trainer Jonathan Thomas

interesting horse named Fauci, with jockey Ricardo Santana Jr. up. They finished second, no comment.

Saratoga during sales week is all half party and half very $erious business. Before the sales began, Fasig-Tipton announced it would become the first Thoroughbred auction company to accept cryptocurrency as payment for equine purchases. Said President and Chief Executive Officer of Fasig-Tipton, Boyd Browning, “As FasigTipton approaches its 100th Saratoga Sale, we’re excited to partner with Crypto.com and Swapp to

offer cryptocurrency payment and rewards services at our flagship yearling sale.”

The total sales price for 135 yearlings auctioned over two evenings was $55.155 million an average of $408,556.

Another neighbor, Chris Gracie sold hip #134 by Blame. The dark bay colt had all the pedigree and physical parts. “They have to be perfect, it’s tough,” he said. For the final prep of showing to potential buyers, he took the colt right up the road to fellow neighbor Jim Fitzgerald. Gracie’s colt sold for $275,000. No

word if the winning bid was in cryptocurrency. *Bill Nack wrote those directions in Sports Illustrated to Saratoga years after Red Smith died in 1982. Some allege that Smith’s directions never appeared under his own byline and that the Thruway does not go to exit 14. That would be the Adirondack Northway and on and on. See also: https://saratogainstitute.wordpress. com/2015/06/15/going-back-100-years-red-smithand-the-saratoga-quote. Either way…head north next August. For directions, just ask Siri.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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For Harris Tracy, Galloping is What He Does

By Leonard Shapiro

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hey have worked together on and off for forty years. One is a native of suburban Chicago and trained horses in the Middleburg area with great success since 1980. The other grew up attending segregated black schools in Loudoun County in the 1950s and ‘60s and became a fearless rider who still breaks and gallops Thoroughbreds well into his 70s.

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Many of those horses.

He’s been employed by some big-time local outfits, as well, including Centennial Farms in Middleburg owned by Don Little, Newstead Farm in Upperville owned by the late Bert Firestone and his wife, Diana, and Gordonsdale in The Plains owned by Lewis Wiley. Tracy and Kolb first began to work together at Gordonsdale.

These days, Tracy is not quite as busy, though he rode 15-18 horses a day at the training center over the winter and now handles about a dozen or so daily. Kolb said Tracy still rides with the skill and panache of a much younger man.

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“I liked it right away,” Tracy said, “and I’ve been riding those horses ever since.”

There have been times, he said, when he would exercise as many as 40 horses in a single day, doing whatever it took to get them ready to race, or hunt, or anything else they might encounter in the equine world.

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Trainer Chris Kolb and his long-time friend and colleague, exercise rider Harris Tracy, meet up just about every very early morning about 5:30 a.m. in Barn 7 at the Middleburg Training Center to do what they’ve loved since childhood.

That’s when each first got on a Photo © by Vicky Moon horse and knew virtually right from the start their life’s work would revolve around these elegant animals.

“He’s one of the best I’ve ever seen,” Kolb said. “He’s got a way with breaking and riding horses that you don’t see very often. He’s one of those guys who can get on a horse and it’s like there’s a feather up there. He’s old school. If he sees something in the barn that needs to be done, he jumps right in. You need a hand holding your horse, or washing them down, he’s right there.”

Tracy has never been seriously injured, and this septuagenarian who weighs about 150 pounds on a rock-solid frame, said he has no intention of slowing down any time soon.

“I feel good, and I still enjoy what I’m doing,” he said. “Why stop now?”

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

For Trainer Chris Kolb, A Kinder, Gentler Approach

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Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations

By Vicky Moon

et’s start with the most important part of Thoroughbred trainer Chris Kolb: He approaches his work with a philosophy very rare in this world of fractious, often excited and sometimes erratic race horses.

It’s a studied system he uses with the sleek young horses he breaks along with veteran local rider Harris Tracy. They deal with three types of temperaments.

The first group are the horses that arrive at Kolb’s barn that have come from the horse sales/auctions.

“They’ve been handled quite a bit and on the whole they’re easy to deal with,” he said.

The second group are horses that have come off a farm and only been around one or two people. He makes sure these horses Photo by Doug Gehlsen Middleburg Photo Chris Kolb only deal with one or two people when they come for training at his barn. “That way it’s not shocking to the horse,” he added.

Finally, there are some horses that are unhandled. “They’re scared to death,” Kolb said. “Horses are flight animals and this type are scared of anything.” The answer here is to proceed slowly. “It does not work to strong arm them.”

Kolb steps in one of the stalls in barn seven at the Middleburg Training Center to watch and think as the breaking process begins, again an exceptional trait in this profession. Too often at this stage there is yanking on a chain shank or similar impatience displayed. Not by this quiet, contemplative man, who arrived in Virginia in 1971 to take a job with legendary horseman J. Arthur Reynolds at the age of 19.

While growing up on the north side of Chicago, his mother took him at age 12 for riding lessons at Coach House Stables. He immediately loved it. Later, during his teenage years, a friend told him about a possible job with Reynolds and he went to Warrenton to meet him.

“He had a little bit of everything,” Kolb said, explaining that there were race horses, show horses and fox hunting horses in the Reynolds stables.

Not long after that, Kolb was drafted into the Army. It turned out to be a fortuitous experience when he joined the pentathlon division with Col. John Russell in San Antonio.

Many other well-known local horsemen have also worked with Russell, including Olympic equestrian Jimmy Wofford, who defined Russell as an intuitive coach, not a technical coach. Gould Brittle and Jimmy Jack as well as the late show jumping rider Michael Hunter from Pennsylvania are also Russell alumni.

Kolb returned to Reynolds stables in Virginia for few more years and in 1980, he took at job with Lewis Wiley, a trainer in The Plains.

He first worked out of a barn near Wiley’s Gordonsdale Farm at a crossroads known as Belvoir. He helped with the breaking and training and eventually went with Wiley to the Middleburg Training Center in barn eight. Kolb soaked up all the details and nuances of training with all types from claiming horses to allowance and some stakes too. His favorite was stakes winner Best Endorsement.

Wiley, now in his early 80s, has since retired and said, “He’s a good man and does a good job with horses. I gave him all my tack. It just wasn’t fun anymore.”

Kolb and his wife, Nancy, struck out on their own with Kolb Racing Stables.

“I find it very enjoyable,” he said.

Achieving high goals for her clients Isabella Wolf achieves high goals both on and off the polo field and we’re thrilled to have her as an agent on our team. This fierce competitor was a starting player for the UVA polo team on which she and her teammates won two College National Championships. Since then she’s been playing professionally worldwide while training her own horses. Her travels have taken her (and the 10-horse trailer she drives) all over the United States, playing on teams everywhere from Florida to California and everywhere in between. In her spare time, she enjoys foxhunting with her family. You definitely want this high-goal competitor on your real estate team!

Isabella Wolf

Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia

703-338-7452 2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

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

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9/27/21 10:28 AM

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VIRGINIAHORSERACING.COM Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

INTERNATIONAL Photo by dillonkeenphotography.com

The International Gold Cup is one of the largest and most prestigious steeplechase race meets in the country.

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he International Gold Cup, one of the most spectacular steeplechase events in the U.S., returns to Great Meadow on Saturday, October. 23 in the gorgeous countryside of The Plains.

Gates open at 10 a.m. with the first race at 12:30 p.m. This year, tailgate packages and tents are available for spectators wanting to spend a fabulous afternoon in the Virginia countryside.

“While the event will be live streamed again this fall, there is nothing as breathtaking as being there in person,” said William Allison, chairman of the Virginia Gold Cup Association that oversees both the spring and fall events. “In person, you can hear the hoofbeats and see the horses and jockeys as well as the spectacular fall foliage around the area.”

As with the spring Virginia Gold Cup races this past May, rail spaces will be spread out. Those attending must purchase a rail spot that comes with

GOLD CUP

Returns to Great Meadow on Oct. 23 10 tickets (10 wristbands, one reserved tailgate car pass and two general admission car passes.) The cost is $895 for a space along the racecourse fence and $795 for rail spaces one row back from the rail in either north or south areas. A limited number of spaces are available on Members Hill for $795. No individual tickets will be sold.

Tailgate packages are available and purchases can only be made by calling 540-347-2612. A limited number of group and corporate tents are also available on Members Hill.

The pandemic has financially impacted the equine industry in Virginia, one that’s extremely important to the Commonwealth’s economy. A 2018/19 report by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported that the horse industry brings more than $2 billion annually in economic development to the Commonwealth.

The report also noted that there are more than

183,643 horses in the state that provide approximately 38,874 jobs. It also stated that there are 30.5% or one million households that contain horse enthusiasts.

“It’s important to run these races so that we can continue to help out the equine industry,” Allison said. “So many jockeys, trainers and industry employees are dependent on these races and have been training all year for them.”

Al Griffin, president of the National Steeplechase Association, said that, “Spectators can expect to be back to the overall Gold Cup experience.”

The 2021 International Gold Cup Races are presented by Brown Advisory, the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, the Virginia Thoroughbred Association, Virginia Equine Alliance and the Virginia Breeders Fund.

Information on tickets and live streaming can be found at vagoldcup.com and 540-347-2612.

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TEA TIME for WILLISVILLE Photos by Vicky Moon

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he Willisville Preservation Foundation (WPF) recently hosted an afternoon tea at Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville to celebrate the installation of a historical road marker in the hamlet.

Carol Lee, president of WPF, said, “The sign looks beautiful, and we’re proud to see our historic village publicly recognized.

This is the latest success story of the community working together to preserve our shared history.” The tea included scones, ham biscuits, chicken salad and more goodies. The grand finale of songs featured Sistah of Praise and the Willisville United Methodist Church Chapel Choir.

Thelma Morris, Jane Covington, Carla Timbers, Carol Lee, Ann Lee, Gordon Turner, and Dulany Morison of the Willisville Preservation Foundation celebrated the unveiling of a historic road marker honoring the history of Willisville at the intersection of Route 50 and Willisville Road near Upperville. Willisville became the first historically African-American village in Loudoun County to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in December, 2019, following a collaboration between the community and the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association.

Donna Bohanon, chairperson of the Black History Committee at the Leesburg-based Thomas Balch Library

Dulany Morison, Carol Lee and Dwight Grant

Janet Lee Hagen

Thelma Gaskins Morris and The Reverend Jonathan V. Adams, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church

JANET’S FAMOUS CHEESE TORTE

James Timbers is a member of the Willisville Chorus

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

The finished famous cheese torte, center, is flanked by Cheddar cheese log and curried chicken

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Four-in-Hand Club

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Photo by Leland Schwartz

Herb Kohler’s team of Irish Sport Horses hitched to Beaufort Phaeton designed by the Duke of Beaufort for shooting parties on the moors.

Jamie O’ Rourke, whip and Natalie Black Kohler in second row.

t was a picture-perfect weekend in Upperville for the 21st edition of the

Four-in-Hand Club at Ayrshire Farm, with travels to nearby LLangollen and an evening out at Whitestone Farm in Aldie.

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

John Gregory and Garon Stutzman

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Photo by Vicky Moon

Cheers to a nice afternoon

b at Ayrshire Farm

Photo by Leonard Shapiro

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

Claire Reid of Southern Pines

Sandy Lerner and Danielle Bradley

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

George Lemm of Whitestone Farm

Mark Duffell

Jennifer Schwartz and Jonathan Martin

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Music To A at Grace

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rowing The Plains as a regional center for music and the arts, highlyregarded conductor Miriam Burns is bringing the new Paragon Philharmonia chamber orchestra to Grace Church.

The first concert, “A Joyous Beginning,” will be held Sunday, Oct. 17 at 5 p.m., with the Chamber Orchestra performing the Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, a Mendelssohn String Symphony and Mozart’s Symphony No. 29.

Paragon Philharmonia joins the acclaimed two-decade-old Grace Church Concert Series, which starts its season on Sunday, Oct. 3 with “Music from the Heart: A Celebration of Connection in Aria and Song” with sopranos Camille Zamora and Monica Yunus and pianist Josephine Riggs.

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A resident of Manhattan, Burns is a visiting professor and Director of Orchestral Studies at Ohio State and is principal guest conductor of the Youngstown Symphony.

Recent past music directorships include the former Tysons McLean Orchestra of Northern Virginia, the Tallahassee Symphony, Kenosha Symphony and Lawton Philharmonic. She’s also Photo by Leland Schwartz Grace Church Rector Weston Mathews and Lena guest conducted numerous orchestras in the U.S. and Scott Lundh abroad.

Burns was on the New York Philharmonic staff as one of the cover conductors for eight years, serving under music directors Kurt Masur and Loren Maazel.

Paragon comes to Grace through the efforts of Lena Scott Lundh, former chair of Washington Performing Arts, and Grace Church Rev. Weston Mathews.

“No matter who you are or where you come from you are welcome to participate in everything Grace Church offers,” Rev. Mathews said, adding that, “music is one of the universal languages that helps knit us all together.”

FOR ALL AGES AND ALL INSTRUMENTS, IN PERSON OR ONLINE! Middleburg, Purcellville, The Plains and Waterford

Register Now! 540-592-3040 or piedmontmusic.org

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“I agree,” said Scott Lundh. “Music can be just entertaining, but also serious, helping in healing and uniting us in times of sorrow and divisiveness. Twenty years after 9/11, we remember how people in New York came together in the aftermath of the horrific tragedy, singing “We Shall Overcome” and “America the Beautiful” while orchestras around the world presented the requiems of Brahms and Mozart.

“Music also has the ability to speak to us without words, expressing feelings and emotions, helping us understand life with our hearts rather than our minds.”

Grace Church and Paragon Philharmonia will focus on three areas of collaboration: —Hosting a new series of accessible, high-quality concerts for the community that will complement the long-established Grace Concert Series.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

All Our Ears e Church

10 | 03 | 2021 5:00 pm

Camille Zamora, soprano Monica Yunus, soprano Josephine Riggs, piano Music from the Heart— A Celebration of Connection in Aria and Song

—Partnering with Grace Director of Music Jason Farris and the Grace choir for concerts and enhanced congregational worship.

—Musical outreach to youth in the community, including local schools in the Northern Piedmont region.

The Grace Church Concert Series, created 22 years ago, is funded in part by Jacqueline Mars in memory of her mother, Mrs. Forrest Mars, who was devoted to music and loved Grace Church.

The church also is home to Dark Horse Theatre and Shakespeare Opera Theatre, the Piedmont Regional Art Show and Sale and The Piedmont Singers at Grace. In addition, a new film organization, the Piedmont Film Club, will show a movie the third Thursday of every month starting Oct. 21.

Music, Sweet Music

Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021 (Grace Church Concert Series)

“Music from the Heart: A Celebration of Connection in Aria and Song” with sopranos Camille Zamora and Monica Yunus and pianist Josephine Riggs.

FOR TICKET INFORMATION Online: gracetheplains.org Facebook@gracechurchconcertseries Email: concertseries@gracetheplains.org Phone: 540-253-5177 ext.107 Adults $25 | Students $15 | Under 18 free Grace Episcopal Church 6507 Main Street | The Plains, VA

Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021 (Paragon Philharmonia) “A Joyous Beginning” Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, Mendelssohn String Symphony No. 10 and Mozart’s Symphony No. 29.

Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021 (Grace Church Concert Series) Carl Reinecke, Sonata “Undine,” Op. 167, Sergei Prokofiev, Sonata in D Major; Anthony Trionfo, flute; Albert Cano Smit, piano.

Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021 (Paragon Philharmonia) “Fall Fanfare” features the orchestra’s brass quintet with a special guest appearance by Grace Church organist Jason Farris. Music by Albinoni, Scheidt, Bernstein, Widor, Ellington and others.

Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021 (Paragon Philharmonia) “A Baroque Christmas” includes both the solemnity and exuberance of Baroque orchestral music and holiday cheer. Music of Corelli, Bach, Telemann and others, and a collaboration with the Grace Church Choir in excerpts from Vivaldi’s beloved “Gloria.”

10 | 17 | 2021 5:00 pm

Paragon Philharmonia Conductor Miriam Burns

Paragon Philharmonia is Now In Residence at Grace Episcopal Church A Joyous Beginning— Bach Brandenburg Concerto No.4 Mendelssohn String Symphony No.10 Mozart Symphony No. 29

Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022 (Paragon Philharmonia) “Ringing in the Year,’ an afternoon of chamber music featuring Schubert’s monumental “Cello Quintet.” Program also includes works by Chevalier de Saint-Georges and others.

Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022 (Grace Church Concert Series) “From Darkness,” including Thomas Tallis, “If ye love me”; J. S. Bach, “Ein feste Burg”; Stacey V. Gibbs, “This Little Light of mine,” and The King’s Singers.

Sunday, March 20, 2022 (Paragon Philharmonia)

FOR TICKET INFORMATION Online: paragonphilharmonia.org Facebook@paragonphilharmonia Adults $25 | Students $15 Under 18 free

“Spring Celebration,” a delightful, varied orchestral program featuring Boyce Symphony No. 1, Piazzolla Primavera Porteña, Walker Lyric for Strings and Copland Appalachian Spring.

Sunday, April 24, 2022 (Grace Church Concert Series) Johannes Brahms, Andante from Symphony No. 3; Robert Schumann, Cello Concerto in A Minor, op. 129; Henry Mancini, theme from The Pink Panther; Amit Peled Cello Gang, Amit Peled, conductor.

Grace Episcopal Church 6507 Main Street | The Plains, VA

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Milk and So Much More Shake it up with ice cream treats at Moo Thru

radio frequency sensor that monitors the animal’s health and milk production. The “milking parlor” is automated with equipment that milks the cows, and the barns are cooled by a computerized system of fans, misting equipment and automatic shades that keep the inside temperature at least 10 degrees cooler than the outside on hot days.

K

By Kevin Ramundo

en Smith is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who loves his business and the land.

He and his son, Ben, operate the largest dairy farm in Fauquier County. When Ken took over the Cool Lawn Farm from his father in 1981, it was home to 120 cattle on 270 acres. Today, the farm boasts 1,250 acres and 2,000 cattle and the source of some of the finest ice cream around.

Photo by Susan Russell

Fourth generation dairy farmer Ken Smith

Success in the dairy business doesn’t come easily.

When Ken got started, there were 2,700 dairy farms in Virginia, and now there are less than 450. In this business, automation and technology play a large role in reducing costs, creating an environmentally sensitive operation and keeping cows highly productive and healthy. Each of Ken’s cows has a

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Ken cares deeply about open land preservation and helping the next generation of dairy farmers.

More than 75 percent of his land is in permanent conservation easement, and he was first in line when Fauquier County established its Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. He mentors young dairy farmers on how to be successful, constantly preaching the importance of growth because economies of scale matter so much.

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One of the reasons Ken has been so successful is because he is an avid learner. He knows that, “You can’t recreate the past, but must adapt to the present and look to the future.” One way he learns is through his service on boards including the Dairy Alliance, the Maryland Virginia Milk Producers’ Cooperative, the Farm Credit Bureau, and the Agricultural and Forestry Board of Fauquier County.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

According to Ken, “Successful dairy farmers have to continue to increase the size of their herds significantly, and invest in technology as fast as it becomes available.”

If you are not familiar with Moo Thru, Ken’s ice cream business, it’s time you are. Ken and Pam, his wife of 35 years, started the business in 2010 with their first store on Routes 15 and 29 near Remington. The idea originated on a family vacation in Nags Head, North Carolina. And a great idea it was!

It allowed Ken to realize more value from his dairy rather than just selling the milk outright.

And who doesn’t love ice cream! Especially the rich, lowfat ice cream Moo Thru sells which is based on Ken and Pam’s own recipes. The business has expanded through new locations, franchising and marketing agreements. Today Moo Thru ice cream is available in Remington, Lake Anna, Culpepper, Rappahannock, Warrenton, Hillsboro and soon in Winchester.

To support Moo Thru’s growth, Ken built an ice cream plant on the farm which is managed by his daughter, Taylor Gough, and her husband, Kyle. The business now employs 65 people.

One last thing you should know about Ken. He cares very deeply about the future of open space and farming. He is quick to point out that for agriculture to remain viable and to thrive, there must be plenty of affordable land and local businesses that sell products and services farmers need. He’s concerned about suburban sprawl and is a strong supporter of zoning that concentrates development so that open land remains in good supply at affordable prices. And he believes that locally produced food is important to our communities, and that includes ice cream.

Photo by Vicky Moon

Moo Thru and The Red Truck Bakery have collaborated on a line of ice cream

Details: Moo Thru, 11402 James Madison Hwy., Remington, VA. 22734, 540-439-6455, info@moothru.com, www.moothru.com.

Fall is in full swing – get ready for cooler weather at the co-op.

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GRANT AWARDS PROGRAM

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ince 1973, the Loudoun Preservation Society (LPS) has awarded thousands of dollars in small grants to non-profit organizations throughout Loudoun County to promote the historic preservation of Loudoun’s historic landscape.

The LPS is a citizen organization that raises the money on its own; grant amounts vary from year to year based on fundraising success and the general econo-my.

The LPS grants have helped to promote dozens of small historic preservation, rehabilitation, and

Cemetery wall repair, Mt. Zion Cemetery in Aldie education projects for local organizations and historic properties in recent years. They include Oatlands, Aldie Mill, America’s Routes, the Lincoln Preserva-tion Foundation, the Lovettsville Historical Society, the Virginia Piedmont Area Asso-ciation, the Friends of Bluemont, the Waterford Foundation, the Westmoreland Davis Foundation, the Mt. Zion Church Cemetery, the Thomas Balch Library, and several his-toric churches.

The 2021 Grant Awards were presented Sept.

23 at Rockwood Farm in Hamilton and included: Aldie Heritage Association $2,500 – Evelyn Johnson

Memorial Grant for Charles Fenton Mercer’s brick wall; Loudoun Clerk of Courts Award $990-Project: His-torical Records-digitization of Loudoun’s enslaved court records; The Friends of the Grace Multicultural Center $2,500 and also the Jean Brown Memorial Grant for resto-ration of the “Buggy Trail” stone retaining wall.

In addition, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun Award: $2,500 to re-paint historic 1890 Gleedsville Church and the Willisville Preservation Foundation re-ceived $750 for the Willisville historical highway marker.

Recent examples of projects receiving grants can be found on the LPS web site, www.preserveloudoun.org along with project guidelines.

Money Talks.

Now, Teach it to Hug. From memorial funds, to scholarships funds, to donor-advised funds, we can help you make a difference that never ends.

Since 1999, the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties has helped generous donors support a variety of charitable causes in our region. We salute the leaders who wrapped their vision and commitment—and arms—around this community to create and sustain a permanent charitable resource.

Won’t You Join Us? CommunityFoundationLF.org  (703) 779-3505 22

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Snider Snider

Piedmont Art Show Picturing a Healthy Event

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An overhead view of a previous art show at Grace Episcopal.

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By Carina Elgin

he Art Show is a must. That’s what organizers of the 73rd Piedmont Regional Art Show are planning on while at the same time worrying that pandemic concerns and restrictions may change some of the long-running event’s features.

The dates for this year’s show are October 22-24.

The Women’s Auxiliary of Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains initiated the popular community event in 1947 as The Neighborhood Art Show to showcase local talent and raise money for various outreach programs.

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“Gazelle" by artist Jennifer Sims was the winner of the 2019 People's Choice Award.

The women’s auxiliary no longer exists, and the show, now called The Piedmont Regional Art Show, is run by a dedicated 15-member steering committee that prepares every phase of the highly-anticipated exhibition. Funds raised continue to advance the mission and ministries of Grace Church in the local community.

Donna Caudill has been operations manager for eight years. A former elementary school teacher, she’s always loved art and said she’s always overjoyed to see the varied sorts of art that comes in and enjoys meeting the artists and involving the community in supporting their work.

“We have so many talented artists in the Piedmont area,” she said.”If you’re looking for art to purchase or just to observe, you’ll find some really fun, interesting, and beautiful things to look at.”

Artists of all experience are invited to exhibit their original works in five categories: oil or acrylic, watercolor, graphics, photography, and other media.

Ribbons are awarded in each category, and there’s a $500 prize for Best in Show.

Artists may offer their art for sale during the show (or not).

Caudill said the committee is planning as if the Show will go on, guided by health and safety directives from the Diocese and the state. If the show is cancelled, artists who register will be refunded their entry fees. The final decision likely will be made in early October.

The show’s Friday night Opening Gala has always been popular, and will go on, if possible, with wine and cheese served outside. Numbers entering the building at one time to see the art may have to be limited. As Caudill noted, “There are many ways we can adjust, keep people safe and still enjoy and support our artists.”

For detail: www.piedmontartshow.org or 540-253-5177.

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To Market, To Market

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Photos © Vicky Moon

he Wednesday Farmer’s Market at Buchanan Hall in Upperville is a happening place: fresh produce, nibbles (bagels, cheese, veggies, sweets and more: a food truck, flowers and sips of cider and wine. What more could anyone ask for? Well, just add music to that mix, as well.

“We’re looking to expand on our fresh produce so locals can fulfill all their grocery needs, while enjoying our artisan vendors,” Buchanan Hall President Fletcher Slater told ZEST. “We’re gearing up for more programming for kids and to partner with other local nonprofits, while continuing to provide the community with a local, elegant atmosphere [inside the hall]. At the market, we’re also looking to continue to provide great local live music and add to our food vendors for more variety.”

Did someone say bagels?

Martin Jackson of Prospect Solar.

Laura Davimes of Herban Avenues offers herbal teas, soaps, remedies and gifts.

The market will continue through October and Slater said there are plans for a Christmas bazaar on December 5 with cookies and pictures with Santa. “It will be fun for all ages.” Details: (540) 592-3455, http://www.buchananhall.com/ and buchananhall@gmail.com.

After shopping, visitors enjoy the music accompanied by a setting sun.

Fletcher Slater understands that each borrower is unique, and as your Mortgage Loan Originator, his goal is to present a mortgage package that works for you – keeping your needs at the heart of the mortgage process.

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c: (540) 878-9034 e: fletcher.slater@homebridge.com 210 East Federal ST., 200-A Middleburg, VA 20117

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

PICTURE THIS Photo by Mandy Tosh.

This news from Betsee Parker is just in from the horse show circuit. She now can be credited as the owner of the National Pony Finals winner 15 times. At the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, rider Maddie Toch, 14, took top honors on Brixton. Add to this, rider Elle Boyd, 11, on Baroness of Locheil, came from way behind and won Grand Medium Pony Champion. She also won the Grand Champion Welsh Pony Award.

Photo by johnscottnelsonphotography.com

Over in The Plains at Great Meadow Twilight Polo on Labor Day weekend, the Hotels at Sea team won the final of the $10,000 USPA Arena Chairman’s Cup Tournament against Liberty Hall. Marcos Bignoli hit a two-point shot to secure the win in the last seconds of the game.

Additional members of the team included Tareq Salahi (who some remember as a White House gate crasher in 2009 along with his then wife, Michaele. He also a long-time polo player and that addiction is one that sticks with many.) The team also included Tilito Ocampo.

The United States won the gold medal in team show jumping at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Photo by Vicky Moon

The Goose Creek Association celebrated 50 years at the historic Aldie Mill: Hank and Aline Day, a board member, with Lori McGuinness, co-chair of the board, and Sean McGuinness.

Photo by Vicky Moon Photo by Leonard Shapiro

Carlo Antonio of Millsburg Hunt Contractors in Warrenton is putting some finishing touches on an update at Public School No. 18 in Marshall on a recent Sunday afternoon.

Huddnal Ware with author Peter Hatch during a recent book signing, reception and lecture on A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden sponsored by the Oak Spring Garden Foundation at Buchanan Hall in Upperville.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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BUNNY MELLON STYLE

B

unny Mellon Style is an intimate story of one of the most unintentionally influential women of twentieth-century design. It reveals how her style developed with a look inside the family homes she designed and offers the flavor of her collaborations with French designers of fashion and jewelry, and infinite and extensive inspiration on the world of design. Written by her grandson Thomas Lloyd along with interior designer Bryan Huffman with contributions from Linda Holden, this captivating book published by Gibbs Smith includes Mrs. Mellon’s personal writings, correspondences and interviews with people who knew her, who were employed by her, and who spent time in her homes and gardens.

From Thomas Lloyd, Mrs. Mellon’s grandson, and Bryan Huffman, her close friend for over a decade, comes an inside perspective, with personal insight into Bunny’s rarified world. Never short on entertaining stories of life with Bunny, they share details that cannot be found from mere research and interviews. They reveal the real Bunny Mellon and her original approach to true style.

One of the many fascinating aspects of the book, is the following tribute reprinted from the book with permission by Thomas Lloyd: “Memories of Grandbunny.”

I BEGAN THE EXPLORATION OF MY GRANDMOTHER’S LIFE BY ASKING MYSELF A SIMPLE QUESTION: Is it possible to improve a relationship with my grandmother after her death?

My earliest memories of Granbunny, as I called her, were as a timid little boy observing her from a distance. I would see her working in her beautiful gardens in Cape Cod, pruning her beloved apple trees while wearing that blue hat and skirt. I came to understand that she was a creative force in everything she did, be it flowers, art, pruning or design work, and I longed to know her better. Even as an adult I had no idea how to forge a more intimate connection with her. But that dynamic changed in the last eight years of her life with the births of my two chil- dren, Teddy and Fiona, her great-grandchildren. Their collective fearlessness, which I certainly lacked as a child, brought joy and laughter to my grandmother as she embraced their energy.

The children would run into her living room in Oak Spring, shouting her name and eating Lay’s potato chips out of a white plastic cylindrical container she kept them in. She would always sit in her corner spot on the sofa and top off her Clamato Bloody Mary with that secret little bottle of Stoli. My daughter took her first steps in that room, and they weren’t to me but to Granbunny. Sometimes, the children would run up to her bedroom to greet her and would knock over an enormous collection of treasured mementos she always surrounded herself with. It was then that I discovered my grandmother was a pack rat. I grew

26

Thomas Lloyd © 2021

Bunny in her Sunday kitchen, an informal setting where she cooked and enjoyed views of her garden. to appreciate this tendency in her, and it provided even greater insight into who she was as a person.

She saved a vast collection of letters, drawings, postcards and other forms of correspondence as part of her Oak Spring Garden Library collection; it was a seemingly infinite personal timeline of her amazing life outlined through thousands of ink strokes carefully laid to her signature Granbunnyblue stationery.

It was this initial dive I took individually into her writings that began the spark for initiating discussions about this book concept with Bryan Huffman, my dear friend and a friend of my grandmother, and Linda Jane Holden, author of The Gardens of Bunny Mellon. Linda’s various discussions about her own book underscored the question so many people had about my grandmother: Who was she really?

Through the past year, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of learning more about my grandmother and what led her to become the public persona so few people actually knew.

The collective but distinctly different roles that her father, Gerard B. Lambert, and grandfather Arthur Lowe played in establishing her love for the natural world, gardening design, and space planning laid the groundwork for understanding her formative personality. In their own ways, both men fostered the self-confidence that would ignite her creative genius and unquestionable work ethic. Arthur Lowe was a supporter of her whimsical childhood visions of fairy tales and animals—something that developed in her own style with gardens and jewelry.

Gerard Lambert introduced her as a child to the Olmsted brothers’ team, unearthing a resource from which she squeezed every ounce of information for her first garden project at Albemarle, her father’s house in New Jersey.

I came to understand how Granbunny’s early gardening experiences enabled her to mastermind greater projects in years to come, such as her house and garden at Oak Spring in Virginia. The two important men in her young life, who she loved dearly, gave her the platform to develop garden skills and self-assurance that ensured her success as a woman in a male-dominated world. Realizing this was a good starting point for me.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

© 2021 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / ADAGP, Paris.

Used with permission of Isabelle Rey

Granbunny’s consistent drive for creative perfection—explored through the prism of colors, animals, and space design—paired well with her uncanny ability to seek out and partner with some of the greatest emerging designers of the time, specifically Jean Schlumberger and Hubert de Givenchy. They developed wonderfully symbiotic friendships and together created some of the most iconic personal clothing and jewelry collections of the twentieth century.

The greatest discovery about Granbunny’s character came, however, through insights of the various people who surrounded her daily. The most poignant aspect of her personality was her generous nature toward others. She exhibited unquestioned loyalty and support to so many people around her— most notably her loyal employee base, which at one point in time had an average annual tenure of over twenty years. Although this kind of personal employ was foreign to me—and, indeed, to most anyone else—it became her most endearing trait as I began to interview and talk with so many people who worked for or knew her for many years.

She also shared this generosity with the many guests and dear friends she hosted through the years at her various properties around the world.

Granbunny created spaces that were not only beautiful but that appealed uniquely to each of her guests. She never looked for credit; simply the joy of knowing that these wonderful spaces brought her guests true happiness was all she needed. Now, looking back at my time spent at her houses and the amazing memories they left me, I realize this was her gift to me—and for Granbunny, I now realize, the greatest sign of love she could show someone.

I have a greater appreciation for Granbunny because of the process of co-creating this book, and delving into her life and legacy is a journey that I will continue. My hope is that every reader experiences a bit of the joy and special feeling she gave to those of us who were lucky enough to feel it firsthand.

I miss you, Granbunny.

Bunny Mellon Style is available at Second Chapter Books in Middleburg-secondchapterbooks@gmail.com, 540-687-7016 and online from your preferred online bookseller.

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

27

Fighting Trafficking Here and Now

F

Anne Basham and Fauquier Sheriff Robert Mosier remain vigilant on human trafficking.

ans of spy thrillers recognize the term “safehouse” in rural Virginia. Since the 1950s, this recurring theme has been based upon reality, as many Loudoun-Clarke-Fauquier residents might know.

While the Virginia “safehouse” is no longer used, another global program operates in our own backyard, under the radar and without notoriety.

It’s all about the children.

Charles Carroll IV, MD

Geraldine Carroll

Charles Carroll IV, MD Orthopedic Surgery, Hand, Upper Extremity Surgery and Rehabilitation 109 W, Marshall Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 540-326-8182 | Email: orthomd@ccarrollmd.com

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“Human trafficking is not really on people’s radar, but it is real and growing” according to Middleburg Police Chief A.J. Panebianco. “This problem can be international and linked to organized crime. I know the work of Anti-Trafficking International (ATI) and strongly support it.”

Anne Basham, the CEO of ATI, identifies human trafficking as the fastest growing criminal enterprise in the world. Each year, it targets younger and younger children. She should know.

Basham served as senior advisor at the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), the largest federal funder of domestic anti-human trafficking efforts in the US. She oversaw more than $6 billion in federal grants and projects for victims of trafficking, sexual assault, and violence against children and women.

In fact, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) estimates that one in five children will be approached by a trafficker at some point.

“Everyone is needed to help safeguard these communities and stop human trafficking before it starts,” according to Middleburg’s Matt Foosaner, a board member at NCMEC. The pain of human trafficking is all too real to ATI founder Bill Woolf. In 2013, Woolf, then a Fairfax County detective, was called to a hotel in the middle of the night when officers discovered 17-year-old Emily.

While interviewing her, Woolf learned she’d been trafficked since age 14. She told him she’d been surrounded by counselors, school administrators, and parents who all knew something was terribly wrong because of her failing grades, acting out, skipping school, and substance abuse. Yet, no one ever identified her as a victim of sex trafficking.

Woolf asked her how that was possible and her answer changed Woolf ’s life.

“No one ever asked me,” Emily said. “If someone had taken the time to just ask what was going on, I would have told them, but everyone was too busy pointing the finger at me for everything going wrong. I didn’t feel like anyone would understand me. I didn’t feel like anyone really cared or could help.”

From there, Woolf launched Just-Ask-Prevention. Under Basham’s leadership, the non-profit later became ATI. According to Fauquier County Sheriff Robert Mosier, an ATI board member since 2019, “Communities and law enforcement can defeat human trafficking through education, prevention, and intervention.

“Emily never fit the typical picture many people associate with sex trafficking — a child abandoned, homeless, desperate, on the street….Now ATI brings together law enforcement, schools, and other groups to train professionals on identifying trafficking victims and on identifying the early signs of the problem.

With everyone’s help, ATI will put an end to this evil criminal activity.”

Added Woolf, “A community trained in education, prevention, and intervention will stop human trafficking before it starts. Our children must be surrounded by support systems at every level to deal with this threat effectively.”

In 2018, Woolf was recognized with a presidential medal for his work in combatting human trafficking.

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“ATI’s work,” Basham said, “resulted in the training of over 30,000 law enforcement and front-line professionals and led to the recovery of countless victims who otherwise would have remained stuck in their exploitive situations.”

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

The Great Pumpkin Ride is back!

By Anita L. Sherman

W

e’re into fall. The mornings are cooler, the air is crisper, the hummingbirds will soon leave their familiar feeders and the trees will put on their colorful cloaks heralding a new season.

One way to enjoy the outdoors, get in some physical exercise and savor the fall foliage is by bike.

Many cycling enthusiasts will have that opportunity this month.

An annual event for many years, The Great Pumpkin Ride didn’t happen during 2020 due to the pandemic. The good news is that it is back and already hundreds have signed on. Organizers hope to see those numbers grow by Saturday, Oct. 23, when riders will take off from the Greenway in Warrenton near the Old Caboose in Old Town.

The Great Pumpkin Ride is under the umbrella Participants start at the Old Caboose on the Greenof the Fauquier Trails Coalition, a non-profit way in Warrenton for the Great Pumpkin Ride. One of the most popular options is the 64-mile route. organization, dedicated to the development of trail systems throughout Fauquier County. This is a “We know that the funds raised go to help make great fundraiser to help support their efforts. things happen in the community…it’s a worthy cause.”

Premiere Hospitality, who for the last seven years Bob Leftwich, owner of The Bike Stop in has served as the management company, helps with Warrenton, is happy to see the event resurrected many administrative logistics. In addition, there’s a for outdoor enthusiasts. He’s all about pushing small group of volunteers who work tirelessly to host recreational activities and being healthy. the event.

“I named it,” he said, recalling years ago when “We work with a lot of nonprofits and we love he organized what was originally known as the getting involved,” said Carlton Shutt, who along with Fauquier Fall Foliage Ride. “It was always held close Ginger O’Brien, run Premiere Hospitality. to Halloween and I thought it should be named

something with more fun involved.”

Colorful and festive t-shirts are part of the registration but many often choose to add a pumpkin to their bike or ride as a witch or skeleton.

The event will be held rain or shine and there are three optional rides: 18 miles, 49 miles and 64 miles.

The 18-miler is well suited for the entire family.

“It’s our family fun ride,” said Shutt and discounts will be offered for accompanied children under 12.

“It will be a great recreational activity for the family and we look forward to folks joining in.”

Registration is $75 for any of the rides and is entirely online and necessary to participate. There will be no ride day registrations. Start times vary.

Shutt acknowledged the generous support of many corporate sponsors to make the Great Pumpkin Ride event happen, particularly longtime benefactors like Messick’s Farm, Panera Bread and Great Harvest.

Many of their tasty treats will be available at rest stops along the way.

Powers Farm Brewery in Midland is one of the rest stops this year along with the church halls at Mount Horeb United Methodist and Remington Baptist Church. Local girl scout groups help serve refreshments.

“We would also encourage any of the riders to come out to Old Town Warrenton the night before,” said Shutt, “and take advantage of the restaurants, shops, enjoy the music and ambiance of the town.”

Register for the 2021 Great Pumpkin Ride at www.bikereg.com/great-pumpkin-ride.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Tea for Two or More in The Plains

By Anita L. Sherman

Piedmont Regional Art Show & Sale Opening Gala Friday, Oct. 22, 6:30 to 8:30 pm For Artists & Sponsors - Additional Guests $15 The Art Show & Sale continues Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 am to 6 pm & Sunday, Oct. 24, Noon to 4 pm Admission Free – Donations welcome 73 Years Supporting the Arts in Our Community

Grace in The Plains

6507 Main Street The Plains, VA 20198 540-253-5177x104 www.facebook.com/artshowatgrace www.piedmontartshow.org COVID guidelines observed. Please wear a mask.

“T

ea is my very favorite thing to do,” said author, former therapist and now business entrepreneur Marianne Clyde as she smiled surveying her surroundings. Vintage prints adorn the walls. There are China settings for sale as well as a cabinet containing custom made jewelry. Artfully crafted notecards catch your eye. She knows she’s arrived somewhere special.

Settling into a dollhouse ambiance, the main attraction is the menu with its specially blended teas, tasty and delicate sandwiches and delectable Writer Anita Sherman visits the scones and desserts.

Crest Hill Antiques and Tea Room Crest Hill Antiques and Tea Room has in The Plains been located on Main Street in the Plains since 2018. Creatively charming, it’s reminiscent of many village tea houses sprinkled throughout the English countryside. And that’s by design.

“I’m trying to create a comfortable and cozy place, without pretension, where you can come, relax, and connect,” said proprietress Salvatrice (Sally) DeLuca who has called Fauquier County home since 1995. She relishes the county’s landscape and the sense of peace and calm she experiences living here.

DeLuca also knows about high teas with white linen tablecloths and tuxedoed waiters.

“I’ve certainly been to those and they are fine but that is not what we are doing here.” Her setting is less intimidating and more informal, an ambiance recipe that works well and complements the town’s character.

DeLuca has happily reinvented her business during the last 14 years.

“Originally, the tea room was an afterthought,” she said. “I was an antiques dealer, in a different building, with three rooms of antiques…but, as a service to our customers, we started offering cups of tea and cookies…then added small sandwiches.”

When the recession hit in 2008, she admitted the antique business “tanked.”

But the tea room thrived.

“I’m very grateful,” DeLuca said of her customers and for the town’s support.

Her gaily decorated tables can be arranged to accommodate a variety of settings from those stopping for tea to bridal showers. She can seat 30.

DeLuca aspires to have something for everyone on her menu, gladly accommodating gluten-free requests.

“We have perfected the menu over the years,” she said of the two dozen teas offered. For over 10 years, her “go-to” tea source is a family-owned, local blender in Fauquier, Tea for All Reasons.

DeLuca often introduces a unique blend during the holidays or other special times of the year.

“Our White Chai was originally called White Christmas but we offer it now all year long because of its popularity,” said DeLuca, who, prior to Covid, allowed customers smell various teas from small jars brought to the tables.

“I like to educate people about these loose teas…it’s a fun experience and we hope to bring that back.”

During 2020, though “not the tea way,” DeLuca moved to a carryout service offering curbside pick-up. “We put up a sign that read “teapot on wheels,” she said.

Throughout the year, Crest Hill offers a variety of events, from sweetheart themed teas throughout February where customers will receive a long-stemmed rose, Mother’s Day, All Halloween’s Eve with ghoulishly named and creatureshaped treats.

An added bonus these days is DeLuca’s new recipe book, A Soothing Spot of Tea. Yes, her scone recipe is in there. It’s the perfect memento when you stop by for tea.

Crest Hill Antiques & Tea Room, 6488 Main Street, The Plains. 540-253-5790, Crest-Hill@ hotmail.com, CrestHillAntiques.com. Open Wednesday – Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Let’s not pave over the whole reason we came here in the first place. various layers of soil before entering ground water.

Beyond safe and clean water here locally, our own Goose Creek, which flows into Loudoun County’s Beaverdam Creek Reservoir, provides clean drinking water for thousands in Fairfax County.

It is up to us, the residents and landowners in the community, to remain vigilant about the protection of our natural resources and this beautiful place we live. Together, we must continue to support responsible growth and celebrate landowners large and small, who are committed to preserving the environment and our way of life.

Conservation easements and the preservation of open space is critical to more than the historic tradition of point-to-point racing, fox hunting, hiking, cycling, fishing and shooting sports in Hunt Country. It’s critical to the air we breathe and the water we drink.

Let’s continue to support the protection of our magnificent landscape for everyone for generations to come.

Photo by Sterling Rung

We’re here because we love open space and this magnificent landscape. It’s frankly miraculous that Fauquier County doesn’t look like a Chicago suburb, with D.C. sitting less than 50 miles away.

This beauty has been preserved thanks to many over the years with the foresight to protect it.

There’s a growth spurt going on in the area, and that’s good. It’s good if the development respects zoning and easements that are in place to preserve open space. Open space, and the stunning landscape we enjoy, literally generates oxygen — the fresh air we breathe — and is critical to the natural process of purifying the water that flows into our streams and rivers.

Two-thirds of America’s clean water supply comes from precipitation that is filtered through forests and ends up in streams. Natural landscapes and forests help prevent impurities from entering streams, lakes and ground water in a number of ways. Root systems of trees and other plants keep soils porous and allow water to filter through

SPONSORED BY PEOPLE WHO TREASURE

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The Nature of Oaks “Packed with fascinating stories of ecological connections and wonders, this beautiful book is a hymn to the keystones of the forest, the oaks. A timely and much needed call to plant, protect, and delight in these diverse, life-giving giants.”

—David George Haskell, author of Pulitzer finalist, The Forest Unseen, and Burroughs Medalist, The Songs of Trees; Professor, University of the South

A

s we take an up close and personal look at the oak trees on the grounds of the Upperville Horse Show in Upperville, we wanted to share a fascinating book on this iconic tree.

They nurture a crucial and complex web of wildlife above ground, but are just as impressive underground, producing enormous root systems that make them champions of carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and watershed management. In The Nature of Oaks, Tallamy uncovers the busy hub of life in an oak tree through the seasons, and once again turns the nature that surrounds us into a source of wonder and discovery.

Doug Tallamy is a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. His book, Bringing Nature Home, was awarded the 2008 Silver Medal by the Garden Writers’ Association. He is also the author of two New York Times bestsellers: The Living Landscape, Nature’s Best Hope and this gem, The Nature of Oaks.

Highlighting the cyclical seasons of life, death, and renewal, Tallamy beautifully frames the unique interaction between the trees and the life forms that depend on them.

Tallamy has established himself as one of the conservation movement’s most respected and important advocates, detailing how to make a difference in the future of the planet and all its inhabitants from our own backyards. Now in The Nature of Oaks, Tallamy pays homage to a giant of the plant kingdom—the mighty oak tree.

His signature, how-to advice includes practical tips on how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area. Whether you have or want oaks in your yard, or just appreciate their irreplaceable role in the health of our environment, this fascinating book will ensure you never look at a “common” oak tree the same way ever again.

Oaks support more life forms and interactions than any other tree genus in North America, sustaining everything from acorn-collecting woodpeckers to caterpillars that dazzle like jewels.

Available at Second Chapter Books in Middleburg.

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32

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Answering climate change through a revolution in reforestation.

As pioneers in the growth of forest creation, GreenTrees is working with Virginia landowners to plant forests that clean the air and remove carbon from the atmosphere.

In the spirit of the coming forest revolution, we are organizing the right principles to honor and protect a more liberating future for all.

Learn more about our process at Virginia.Green-Trees.com or call us at 540.253.2513.

Because when we plant trees, we plant hope.

Virginia.Green-Trees.com | 540.253.2513 | #PlantTreesPlantHope

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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The tree canopy adds a majestic touch

Photo by dillonkeenphotography.com

Upperville’s Glorious Trees T

By Vicky Moon

he annual June competition of the oldest horse show in the United States, the Upperville Colt & Horse Show dates to 1853, when it was founded by Col. Richard Henry Dulany. He was a devoted horse lover, equestrian and founder of the oldest foxhunting club, The Piedmont Fox Hounds in 1840. He lived near the Grafton Farm show grounds at the still thriving Welbourne Inn. The show is a prestigious stop on the horse show circuit, and recognized as a United States Equestrian Heritage Competition.

The gorgeous grounds have always been revered for the setting of stately trees in the main hunter ring. Often referred to as oak trees, in reality they are not just oaks, but also black gum.

Through the years, some trees have been lost to storms and age. Current show president Joe Fargis has ridden at Upperville in all levels of competition during the past six decades, and is leading a campaign to renovate the trees.

“The most unselfish thing one can do is to plant a tree,” Faris said recently. “The shade will be enjoyed by future generations.”

“I think this project is a terrific move in the right direction,” explained landscape consultant, Michael Gaige. “Landscapes aren’t static, for 150 years there

34

has been a slow and steady attrition of trees as the original pre-settlement era trees have aged out. The black gums hang on because that’s their nature, they live up to 700 years. There was a mass planting in the 1990s, and now we’re due to do that again, but perhaps with more insight as to what’s appropriate for the site.”

With the nearby Oak Spring Garden Foundation, Gaige is working with a horse show “tree team” to understand what this area looked like 200 years ago.

“We can’t go back 200 years in terms of the landscape—the world is different now,” he said.

“Oak is the iconic tree of the piedmont and if there are to be any nice ones growing in 100 years, people ought to get planting them.

“For the show grounds in particular this is probably a good time to reimagine the site more broadly. When I was there this summer during the show, I felt like I was in a huge parking lot with a few jumping rings. The cars and trucks are parking on the roots of the trees, which is a problem, but visually it strongly distracts from the experience. To me, when the place is empty, its picturesque, the classic park-like setting of the old days with a high canopy of large trees.

But here, the trees continue into the rings.

Imagine if the show was like this and without all the cars.”

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

“My landscape lens sees three interwoven landscape layers: physical (geology, water, climate); biological (plants, animals); and cultural (the ways humans have shaped the former). These layers build a story of landscape evolution that is, on account of ecology and history, unique to every site.”

See also Michael Gaige’s website: https://www.knowyourland.com/about

From above, the hunter side of the Upperville Horse Show shows many of the graceful trees.

Photo by Shelby Bonnie

“Thankfully Joe is moving fast to get trees in the ground. There are a few new trees in the rings and outside the rings but there’s much more to do. The trees can’t be tiny seedlings —they’ll never make it from trampling etc. So they have to be planted pretty large and large trees aren’t cheap. In 150 years, people will be glad this effort was carried out.”

-Landscape Consultant Michael Gaige.

For those who want to join the tree team and contribute to this cause: Upperville Colt & Horse Show PO Box 239, Upperville, Virginia, 20185 Show Office: 540-687-5740 UCHS1853@gmail.com www.upperville.com Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

The Upperville Colt & Horse Show is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (TIN:23.7390149). All online donations go to supporting the Upperville Colt & Horse Show and are unrestricted.

Photo by dillonkeenphotography.com

A classic White Oak tree on the west side of the main ring

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

35

BRAVO! BRAVO! for Doc 5

Doc 5 Board Member Anne Clancy with Tom Foster, a co-founder of the Doc 5 Film Festival

T

Ambassador Richard Viets was an enthusiastic attendee

Laurie Volk arrived from over the mountain in Clarke County channeling her roots in Southern California

Photos © Vicky Moon

he second annual Doc5 Film Festival held at the Middleburg Community Center in mid-September, was, in the words of founder Tom Foster, “an overwhelming success,” drawing appreciative audiences to view five outstanding documentary films over the five different nights. “We were delighted to be able to bring films this fresh and to do it in an intimate setting,” Foster said. “The goal is to build a sense of community around the event and I think we accomplished that.”

Doc5 will come back to Middleburg in 2022 from May 17-21 at the Community Center, and going forward will remain on the local calendar every spring. Foster also is organizing the Piedmont Film Club that will involve a movie a month at Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains. The first film, “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet,” a first-hand account of humanity’s impact on nature, will be screened on Oct. 21.

Bernadette Wegenstein, director of the captivating film The Conductor about Marin Alsop--the first woman ever to lead a major American orchestra (hint: Baltimore Symphony)

36

Emily Ristau

Pam and Brad Ryder

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

For a gala dinner on the final evening of the event, guests dined alfresco at the Middleburg Community Center gardens before a showing of the film Paper & Glue directed by French artist JR.

Robin Richards and Barbara Pennington

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

37

It’s the Novel Start of Bond, James Bond Middleburg author Anthony Wells is the only living person to work for British intelligence as a U.S. citizen and to serve with both the Royal Navy and U.S. Navy.

This is an excerpt from his new novel, “Room39 and the Lisbon Connection,” which tells the story of how Ian Fleming and his colleagues worked to undermine the Nazis in Portugal during World War II. The following is a conversation between C. Stewart Menzies, head of the British Secret Intelligence Service, and Royal Navy Vice Admiral John Godfrey, Director of Naval Intelligence.

By AnthonyWells “Who is this person that’s your righthand man?”

“Name’s Fleming, Ian Fleming.”

“I’ll check him out if you don’t mind.”

“Please Stewart no, we don’t want security busybodies, least of all five asking questions….He’s been vetted thoroughly by our own Naval security.

We know more about Fleming than he knows about himself. Totally reliable and highly secure. His penchant for the ladies is well under control. He knows how to play that game with the fair sex to our advantage.”

“So what do you have in store for Mr. Ian Fleming?”

“He is currently Lieutenant Commander Ian Fleming, in for the duration, hostilities only, not a career Navy man. But he’s good. In fact he’s the best.”

Admiral John Godfrey pauses, takes a breath and continues.

“He’s going to run a brand new 100-plus outfit undercover, totally clandestine under my direct control and totally with your full knowledge. We are recruiting already. …You and I know that there are risks, people who are doubles who will crack if the Gestapo gets their hands on them and people who will be in it for what they can get. I am not suggesting that the majority of the small number of resistance people that we’ve set up before the collapse of France are risks, but nothing’s perfect.”

“So what missions, at least initially?”

“Portugal, as Winston directed.”

“Once they’re fully trained, we’ll insert small teams, maybe no more than three, possibly four, whose certain skills are needed. They’ll infiltrate, work the key areas. Lisbon, Oporto, and the supply centers and routes for the key resources Hitler needs…Most of all, they’ll prepare for the worst and be ready to execute on a moment’s notice.”

“Go on John, this all sounds good, exactly what the PM wants now.”

“Yes, indeed. They’ll need all the intelligence you and Bletchley can provide, but only a tiny few will be in the know. None will know the whole picture, with the exception of Fleming, himself.”

“Agreed, but if you plan on inserting Fleming, that’s a risk. We don’t want him stripped and tortured in some Gestapo cell by Himmler’s gorillas, pumped with drugs and electrodes, telling them in a delirious stupor all that you and I know.”

“Stewart, I’ll only send him to Portugal if absolutely needed. The good news, it’s not an occupied country, it’s officially neutral, our oldest ally, and we’ll have plenty of cover, rest assured. But that’s all down the road. It will be his trained people who will go in, get set up, store all the explosives, communications and weapons that may be needed if the worst happens. Meanwhile, the linguists among them who know Portugal well, have lived there, and have good reliable contacts, will have business top cover, all reliable, like a lot of your people in Germany before the war.”

“Room39 and the Lisbon Connection” is available at Second Chapter Books.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Middleburg Fisherman Will Never Carp About His Catch

S

By Leonard Shapiro

o who knew?

About carp, that is, a bottom-feeding fish rarely seen on an American restaurant menu and hardly ever displayed stuffed and mounted over a proud angler’s fireplace mantle or on an office wall.

Mark Metzger, owner of the popular Highcliffe Clothiers in Middleburg, knows all about carp.

Where to find them. How to catch them. Even the best way to prepare them, particularly around the Jewish sabbath and Passover when its meat is a critical poached ingredient in gefilte fish, along with ground, deboned whitefish or pike.

Metzger was born in New York City and grew up in suburban New Rochelle, where his father often took him to a local reservoir, armed with a can of worms. The family moved to the Chicago suburbs when he was a junior in high school, and Lake Michigan became home water. He caught the occasional carp there, selling them for $5 each to Chicago peddlers looking for gefilte fish ingredients.

After college at Antioch in Ohio, he eventually moved to New York, then headed south to work in the Nation’s Capital, where he often fished in the Tidal Basin.

“One day, I met a Frenchman who was a restaurant sous chef,” he said. “We were fishing the Tidal Basin.

He had all this equipment and then he reels in this big carp. He showed me what he was doing, gave me

Mark MetZger hauled in this Potomac River beauty just off Hains Point in Washington. some tips, and some bits and pieces of what he was using to catch them.”

From that day forward Metzger, pardon the expression, was clearly hooked on carp.

“They grow really big,” he said, “and they fight very strongly. When you get one, you know you’ve definitely caught a fish.”

Carp have been known to weigh as much as 60 pounds. The Tidal Basin record is 57 pounds and Metzger once hooked one hard by the Jefferson

Memorial that weighed 36.8 pounds, his personal best.

And for Metzger and many of his fellow carp fishermen, it’s always catch and release, giving others the thrill of hauling in a rod-bending species.

One prestigious fishing magazine has called the quest for carp “the world’s greatest sport fishing.”

Metzger described it himself as “hurry up and wait kind of fishing, and definitely worth the wait.”

Worms won’t really work on carp. Instead, they’re attracted to bait called “boilies”—fancy dough balls made with eggs to form a hard shell around the dough. They’re manufactured and available in flavors like pineapple, chocolate, strawberry and “even tutti fruity,” Metzger said.

He sometimes makes his own bait, because “I can walk over to the Safeway and get all the ingredients I need just going down the aisles.”

Metzger still fishes the Tidal Basin, and occasionally goes over to the Northern Fauquier Community Park in Marshall to fish one of its ponds.

He also frequently enters carp tournaments in the U.S. and Europe, where competing anglers fish 24/7.

They can even sleep on the shore, aided by electronic alarms that go off when a fish is on the line.

“It’s the perfect sport to do by yourself or with others,” he said. “We have events where we eat together, shoot the breeze with friends you get to know. But it’s also very relaxing to just do it by yourself.”

And has he occasionally partaken of freshlycooked carp, he was asked.

“No,” he said with a smile. “I hate fish. I don’t eat it.”

So who knew?

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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HOME SWEET HOME Far From a War Zone, It’s Postal Service With a Smile IMPROVEMENTS

By Leonard Shapiro

T

he next time you walk up to the counter at the Middleburg post office and Antwan Montford is standing on the other side of the plexiglass, make certain you thank him for his stellar service.

Whether you are planning to remodel your kitchen, transform your master bath, finish a basement or build an addition, you need more than a contractor. You need a partner you can trust with the possession that says the most about what you value and the way you live.

No, not for picking out the perfect stamp. Not for making sure your package is properly sealed and addressed. And certainly not for heading to the back room to retrieve your mail because you left that post office box key back home on the kitchen table.

Not that this genial 12-year military veteran is looking for any sort of verbal pat on the back.

Photo by Leonard Shapiro But thank Montford anyway Antwan Montford offers postal service with for his service in the U.S. Army, a smile. including 15 months deployed in Iraq, then later, another nine months in Afghanistan.

He had two very close calls in Iraq. Sitting in a humvee gunner turret, a suicide bomber detonated explosives that killed two of his friends. He suffered a back injury that day, saved mainly by a sturdy safety harness. Months later, he sustained a neck injury when his vehicle was nearly blown in half by an improvised explosive device (IED) on the side of the road.

“I was lucky” not being injured or wounded in Afghanistan, he said. “But every day out there, you know that anything could happen.”

Montford was a combat engineer in a unit assigned to find IEDs before they wreaked havoc on men and machines. He saw plenty of that up close and personal, and after his second deployment he also dealt with PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder).

Design Build Remodel 540.439.8890 HomeSweetHomeImprovements.com

“Everything seemed to trigger it for me,” he said. “I had a short fuse, I couldn’t sleep, I was always worried that something was going to happen. I finally had a therapist who really helped me. She said, ‘you have to exercise your mind.’ I started reading, watching documentaries. It really made a difference. And I love to read.”

Still, there was not much he could do about his physical ailments. He had hoped to become a drill sergeant, but couldn’t pass the physical. Finally, an Army physician “told me that if I ever wanted to hold my son, the best thing for me to do was retire. I left at 40 and it really crushed me. I loved what I was doing.”

A Miami native, Montford, now 44, has gone back to community college and is studying psychology. Eventually he’d like to become a counselor and make the same sort of impact his Army therapist had on him.

His wife, Analyn, also a military veteran he met while they were stationed at Fort Benning, works for the State Department and is studying for a Masters.

They live in South Riding and have a six-year-old son, Amare, now painlessly held frequently by his doting dad.

Montford had no interest in applying to replace retired Middleburg postmaster Ken Quinn. A desk or supervisory role is just not for him, he said.

“I like what I’m doing,” he added. “And I didn’t want a job where I had the responsibility of leading. I just wanted to be able to go home after work and be with my family.”

As for Middleburg, “I love the people,” he said. “From day one, I was welcomed with open arms. The town has a home feel to me. People are always stopping to talk. They wave to me from their car.”

And it never hurts to thank him for his service either, stamps not included.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Lost Barrel Has Found Its Perfect Place

O

By M.J. McAteer

pening a brewery in the dead of winter during a pandemic doesn’t sound like a smart business plan, but Lost Barrel Brewing has made it work.

This stylish addition to the Middleburg scene opened last December, smack in the middle of a season more associated with hot toddies than cold brews. Back then, unless visitors snagged one of the three fire pits that punctuate the brewery’s lawn or a seat by a heater on its covered porch, al fresco drinking was limited to the hardy.

Indoors, in its spacious taproom, seating also was limited by the need for social distancing. When the weather finally warmed up enough for beer aficionados to enjoy the brewery’s bucolic setting, the cicadas arrived.

“We faced hurdles, but not roadblocks,” said Patrick Steffens, one of Lost Barrel’s owners as well as its general manager and chief brewer. “Starting any business is difficult, but this has been a labor of love.”

Still, he admitted, “I’m excited about the prospect of being back to normal.”

Lost Barrel is located just west of the village off Route 50. The 70-acre property once belonged to local horseman George Wiltshire, and one of the families that owns Lost Barrel still maintains an equestrian facility on the west side of the old Mosby Springs farm.

Brewery patrons also are treated to a view of horses grazing in nearby fields as they quaff craft beers and hard seltzers that are the venue’s speciality.

Smooth and malty, citrusy and hoppy, sour

Photo by M.J. McAteer

Lost Barrel events manager Natalie Femia and co-owner and chief brewer Patrick Steffens. or light, Steffens said Lost Barrel brews it--in 450-gallon batches two or three times a week. “It’s the easiest 700-step process you’ll ever hear about,” said the former hobby brewer. The brewery’s Farm Ale recently won a gold medal at the Virginia Beer Cup competition, a coup for the start-up.

Lost Barrel’s made-on-site hard seltzers are another point of pride. They come in cherry, lemonlime, orange and raspberry and are all naturally flavored without added sugar. The brewery offers wine and nonalcoholic drinks, as well.

Lost Barrel has a two-pronged approach to survival. Visitors to the brewery can buy beer by the glass, the pitcher, the keg or the sixtel (a sixth of a

keg). Or, they can get growlers or cans to go.

Lost Barrel has a limited distribution area, but some of its beers are on tap at nearby establishments such as the Salamander Resort and the West End restaurant in Purcellville. Its canning machine, which shares space in the brew house with towering silver vats, processes 800 cans an hour.

The brewery is also serious about its food choices. said marketing and events manager Natalie Femia.

Teaming with chef José Marty of LoCo Kitchen, they’ve crafted a menu that includes intriguing, finger-friendly dishes such as Peruvian-style chicken skewers, bacon pops and hot flatbreads.

Lost Barrel has made it a point to be in harmony with its rural setting. It was built out of reclaimed wood, and with its clerestory windows and silo-like tower, it resembles a rustic barn. Just as important to its owners is that the brewery be part of the community.

It’s been a regular at the National Sporting Library and Museum’s open-late concert series. On “Sunday Fund Days,” it plays host to local charities, such as the Middleburg Humane Society, donating 10 percent of that day’s sales.

And why Lost Barrel?

Steffens said it came out of his vision of the brewery as a hidden treasure, just waiting to be discovered.

“I wanted it to be that good,” he said.

Lost Barrel Brewery, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg. Open Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, 11a.m. to 8 p.m.

Peter Leonard-Morgan Realtor ®

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Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Perspectives on Childhood, Education, and Parenting

Forget Something?

Just Sleep It Off THE BEST OF PSO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2021 - 3:00 PM We open our 25th Anniversary Season with some of our all time favorites, including the electrifying Overture to Candide by Bernstein. Founding Conductor Emeritus Michael A. Hughes returns to the PSO stage to lead the orchestra he started a quarter of a century ago in the grand finale of Dvorak’s New World Symphony. We also welcome PSO favorites Emily Casey and Nakia Verner performing timeless vocal works as we kick off the NEXT 25 years!

“If big pharma came out with a pill tomorrow that could improve your memory and significantly lower your risk of Alzheimer’s, would you take it?....Well, we already have it….It’s called sleep.”

- Lisa Genova in Remember

H

By Tom Northrup

ave you ever wondered how your athletic octogenarian friend can still stroke crisp volleys at the tennis net or sink six-foot putts under pressure?

Or how a concert pianist can play Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata without sheet music?

Tom Northrup Neuroscientist Lisa Genova’s “Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting (2021)” provides the answers to these questions and more. In this accessible book for all ages and backgrounds, the author presents a framework for us to better understand the brain and memory.

She explains that there are three kinds of memory: semantic (factual information), episodic (for what happened; it’s personal and grounded in the past), and muscle (for how to do things, simple and complex). The first two are located in the same section of the brain—the hippocampus. Significantly, muscle memory (the focus of this column) is stored elsewhere—in the basal ganglia.

UPCOMING PSO CONCERTS: SWING BACK INTO THE HOLIDAYS! SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2021 - 3:00 PM

YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERT: Peter and the Wolf SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2022 - 3:00 PM

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SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2022 - 3:00 PM

HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY PSO! SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2022 - 3:00 PM

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Because it is housed in its own space, muscle memory allows us to perform motor tasks at a high level in our later years. Flexibility, mobility, sight and strength are the limiting factors, not the mind. This is good news for seniors, and may explain your older friend’s continued competence as an athlete.

Before reading the book, I had always associated muscle memory with physical activities such as riding a bike, catching or hitting a ball, dancing. But its scope is much broader. Once we’ve practiced enough to master the fundamentals, this part of the brain ensures that we can easily perform multiple routine tasks such as reading, driving a car, typing.

Whether one is a beginning reader or a virtuoso musician, muscle memory makes it possible for anyone to perform tasks without conscious thought—a kind of mental automatic pilot.

To perform at an elite level in any activity requires many hours of focused practice (Malcolm Gladwell, in “Outliers,” posited that it takes 10,000 hours of practice in any endeavor to become outstanding). Concert pianists who have made this commitment are tapping into the power of muscle memory when they perform difficult pieces.

In writing this column, my episodic memory recalled a lecture from two decades ago by Dr. James Maas, a professor at Cornell, on the importance of sleep.

He concluded with a story about his consultation with an Olympic figure skater. Her performances had been slipping—missing jumps, falling. She had heard that Dr. Maas had worked with athletes and she needed help.

When he understood her sleep and practice routine, Dr. Maas recommended she eliminate her 4 a.m. practice, sleep until 7, and practice in the afternoon.

She then went on to win an Olympic medal.

The Margaret Spilman Bowden Foundation Nicolaas and Patricia Kortlandt Fund The Wise Foundation Luminescence Foundation

The Phillip A. Hughes Foundation

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The Crossfields Group

Note to parents and teachers: We all need to be reminded of the vital role sleep plays in enhancing our muscle memory. Without 8 to 10 hours a night, it’s difficult to consistently consolidate, store and retrieve information—whether semantic, episodic, or muscle.

Tom Northrup is a long-time, nationally acclaimed educator and Head of School Emeritus at The Hill School in Middleburg.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Woman Of The Year(book)

J

By Drew Babb

ust before fall of 1981, Martha Akers packed up her hot yellow Pontiac Grand Am. She’d just graduated from Bridgewater College in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.

She raced up I-81 to Purcellville to teach English at Loudoun Valley High School.

You can’t fast forward 41 years. But test drive the metaphor, anyway.

This spring, she emptied her desk at Valley after serving four decades as advisor to LVHS’s “Saga” yearbook. Repeat: 41 years.

Of the 41 “Sagas” she guided, traffic-copped and cajoled from her teenage staffs, 36 won gruelingly competitive prizes from the Virginia High School League. If this were athletics, we’d be talking New England Patriots/UCLA men’s basketball/Tennessee women’s basketball.

And to this day, she still wears a gold ring from Kansas State’s Journalism Education Association that named her 2005 Yearbook Advisor of the Year.

The Akers Era spans four Valley principals and the onslaught of printing/photography and communications “advances” she’s navigated as skillfully as Ferdinand Magellan.

For her first two decades Akers taught English and advised the yearbook as an extracurricular activity.

For the last 21 years, she taught journalism and photojournalism.

(Fun fact: In 1981 the “Saga” cost $20,000 to

produce and cost the students $25. In 2021 the production cost $80,000 and the cost to LVHS Vikings was in the $65 range.)

Her students have gone on to gigs at ESPN, Netflix, Blue State Digital, faculty slots at Rutgers and the University of New Orleans, an Air Force fighter pilot, playwrights, film producers, film editors and a U.S. House of Representative member from Texas, to name a few.

Akers also has become a mainstay at national workshops for other high school yearbook advisors.

Which makes her an Advisor to Advisors, Super Advisor, take your pick.

In wrapping up this all-too-short valedictory to Martha Akers, know these three truths: One, she presided over the monumental shift from LVHS yearbook as a club activity to a legitimate credit course.

Two, in 2021, she had a chance to not publish a Covid Year “Saga.” That wasn’t going to happen. Her quote: “Nonsense. This is history. We will publish.”

Three, she’s not slinking into That Good Night.

She’ll prowl the country spreading her brand of motivation and “traffic-copping.” Her wonderful work produces winning yearbooks, and more importantly, winning citizens.

Along with the awards and kudos, here’s her take on her legacy.

“My hope is staff members and students realize any staff can excel. Hard work produces a level of knowledge and achievement that’s not easy to obtain,

Photo by Sarah Huntington

The Sagas of Martha Akers. but always is worthwhile.”

Author James Hilton, in Good-Bye, Mr. Chips, has one character say––“Brookfield will never forget his lovableness.”

To paraphrase–– “Loudoun Valley will never forget her lovableness, her guidance and her grace.”

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

43

Nostalgia Boutique is All About Vintage Fashions A

By Linda Roberts

mong Silas Redd’s earliest memories are those of sitting and playing among piles of fabrics at the home of his great-grandmother, Georgia Turner, in Paris, Virginia. This early introduction to the color, look and texture of various types of materials was the catalyst that started Redd on his pathway to eventually opening his own boutique specializing in vintage clothing.

“As a young man, I was captivated by the transforming powers of fashion,” said Redd. Both his grandmothers had a sense of fashion, too, and knew the power of style when it came to dressing. Then there was Redd’s mother, Janet, who he credits with the skill of buying an item on sale “and making it look like it came from Neiman Marcus.”

Dress forms sport colorful vintage attire at Nostalgia boutique in downtown Purcellville

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Fast forward from the curious only child to the graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising. Nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset, Redd always wanted to open his own business, but first knew he had to put in due diligence in the industry. So, for several years, he worked in the marketplace for retailers such as Brooks Brothers, Macy’s, Forever 21 and West Elm, among others.

a level of sexiness without being overexposed which is often the case in the women’s clothing industry today.”

Redd buys at auctions, estate sales and from private collectors. He noted that his inventory changes quickly, and prices are marked reasonably to provide the buyer a quality item of clothing at an affordable price. Redd’s buyers, who are predominately female, find amazing ties, bow ties and colorful socks for men.

October is always a big month, and, he added, “from early November to Christmas we are non-stop.”

To assist Redd on busy shopping days or when he’s on a buying trip, Nostalgia has two part-time employees: Pam Balensiefen and Hannah Cline.

They’re happy to schedule personal shopping dates, private shopping events and wardrobe consultations for Nostalgia’s clients.

The time was right for Redd to break out on his own five years ago when he signed the lease for 142 East Main Street in Purcellville and opened his Nostalgia boutique.

The historic building, constructed in 1838 as the Hampton Hotel and later transformed into a boarding house, became the perfect backdrop for Redd’s collection of vintage clothing. Passersby often do a double take at the colorful frocks on dress forms on the wide front porch and turn their cars around to investigate.

“I love vintage clothing,” said Redd, who has filled two floors from top to bottom with attire from the 1920s to the 1980s. There’s a heavy emphasis on fashions from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Clothing is grouped by colors to save buyers time when searching the rooms and racks for just that perfect dress, coat or suit for a special occasion. To glamorize his stock, Redd sells vintage costume jewelry from the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s. Vintage hats and purses complete the look.

“Simply put,” Redd said, “I love everything these eras of clothing represent. “Vintage clothing often embodies

While clothing is obviously the star of the Nostalgia show, primitive to mid-1800s furniture can be found on the front porch and both floors. “People buy older homes and they want certain periods of furniture,” said Redd. “Those with a new home often want a touch of antique furnishings, too.”

“In a world of mass produced fast fashion,” Redd said he finds it refreshing to take a slower approach.

The quality of vintage clothing is much higher than merchandise manufactured now, he noted.

“Vintage clothing,” he said with a smile, “assures the wearer of a unique, one-of-a-kind look.”

To learn more, visit shopatnostalgia.com; email shopatnostalgia@gmail.com or call 540-751-8252.

Virginia Cancer Specialists’ New Fauquier Office!

Expanding Cancer Care in Your Community Robert Marsh MD, Tejas Suresh MD and Jey Maran MD, are excited to start seeing patients:

Coming October 2021

Robert L Marsh, MD Tejas Suresh, MD

Jey A Maran, MD

210 W. Shirley Ave., Suite 111, Warrenton, VA 20186

To schedule an appointment, please call 703.208.3155

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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Judge John Webb Tyler, Jurist and Mentor Judge Tyler and his wife Gwynetta lived in this house at 100 Main Street, Warrenton. It was demolished in 1939 to make way for a grocery store.

The Great Harvest Bread Company now occupies the site.

Photo courtesy of the Hon. Terry Ney

Judge John Webb Tyler

O

By John Toler

ver its history, Fauquier County can claim more than its share of outstanding jurists, including fourth U. S. Chief Justice John Marshall (1755-1835) and Judge John Barton Payne (1855-1935), remembered for his statesmanship and philanthropy as well as his jurisprudence.

Perhaps less known was Circuit Judge John Webb Tyler (1799-1862), who presided over cases of local and national importance, as well as serving as adviser and mentor for the young lawyers who worked with him.

The son of William and Margaret Webb Tyler, John Webb Tyler was born at Woodlawn, the family home southwest of Haymarket. A member of one of the “First Families of Virginia,” William Tyler served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1803-1805 and 1808-1812.

After earning his law degree, John Webb Tyler practiced in Prince William County and served on several boards and committees. He was married to his first cousin, Mary Tyler, with whom he raised 12 children. Following her death in 1840, Tyler moved to Warrenton, where he practiced law.

where business was better.”

Schism and the Crisis of the Union” (2018).

In 1845, Tyler married a Warrenton girl, Gwynetta Baylor Dade (1814-1883). They lived in a house on Main Street, where they raised three children, Constance (1849-1922), Gwynetta (1851-1900) and John W. Jr. (1853-1929).

“According to Tyler, the exclusion of the northern Methodist minister and the majority decision of the church to join the southern Methodists voided the grant from Marshall.” The ruling stated that the actions of the trustees had fundamentally transformed the church into another denomination.

Widely known thereafter as “The Warrenton Church Case,” it would be used in several border state courts.

Tyler was elected Judge of the 9th Judicial Circuit Court in 1850, presiding over quarterly courts held in Warrenton, Brentsville, Leesburg and Fairfax.

“When I was a young barrister, I went to Fauquier to try a case before Judge John Webb Tyler,” wrote John Randolph Tucker in “Reminiscences of Virginia’s Judges and Jurists” (1895). “No man ever had or deserved more devoted friends than this noble gentleman and excellent judge. He did not pretend to extensive learning, but had a strong common sense, a quickness of perception, and a sense of justice.”

During his first year on the bench, Tyler sat in judgment of a case with national implications. Digges v. Trustees of Cliff Church had come about when the trustees of the church, located in the country west of Warrenton, decided to join the Methodist Church, South, and exclude the northern Methodist minister then serving.

“Mr. Tyler instructed me in law gratuitously, and furnished me with the books to read,” wrote Hunton in his 1904 autobiography. He continued teaching, and in 1843 obtained a license to practice law.

The breaking of the church into northern and southern factions in the days before the Civil War was happening elsewhere, including in Warrenton. But the situation with the Cliff Church was more complicated, since the deed to the property conveyed to the church

by Jacqueline Marshall in 1844 stipulated that if the church were not used by a Methodist minister and congregation within five years, the property was to revert to Marshall or her heirs.

Tyler advised Hunton to open a practice in Brentsville – where there was less competition for a new lawyer—and where he could gain as much experience as he could, “ before moving someplace

“Sitting in chancery, Judge Tyler relied heavily on the implied trust doctrine, referencing legal precedents to reach his decision in Digges,” wrote Lucas Volkman in “Houses Divided: Evangelical

During this time, he met Eppa Hunton II (18221908) of New Baltimore, who had opened a new school at Buckland. Tyler sent five of his sons to Hunton’s school, and later urged him to pursue a career in law.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

In recognition of his work in the Circuit Court, in 1858 Tyler was appointed one of the judges in the Virginia Special Court of Appeals, set up to relieve the docket of the regular court.

During his 12 years on the bench, Tyler tried many criminal cases, but one proved particularly difficult.

It involved the killing of Rufus Ayers – stepson of Alfred Rector, whose family founded Rectortown –

by William Wesley Phillips and his son, Samuel C. Phillips.

There had been an ongoing dispute over a farm gate prior to the fateful meeting in Rectortown on Nov. 11, 1859. After trading insults with Ayres, who was armed with a revolver, Phillips went home and returned with a rifle and his son, who had a shotgun.

They found Ayres inside Andrew Crider’s shoemaker’s shop, where the conflict escalated.

Ayres fired twice from inside the shop, but missed Phillips. They returned fire, killing Ayres.

Father and son were quickly arrested. Refused bail, they were confined in the Fauquier County Jail until brought to court the following spring.

The case was prosecuted by Fauquier Commonwealth’s Attorney William H. F. Payne. After a trial marked more by regrets than rancor, the perpetrators were convicted of manslaughter. Judge Tyler, who was angered by the senseless tragedy, sentenced both men to three years in the state penitentiary.

Modern FINANCE

T

It’s Good To Be A Punk

changed and CryptoPunk’s popularity and intrinsic value soared the very same day.

By Philip Dudley

here’s an emerging art form known to those in the digital world as non-fungible tokens or NFTs.

Why? They’re the purist form of an NFT … The Original.

It’s that simple. And yes, people do display NFTs and CryptoPunks. They can hang on walls as digital art; some use them as their profile picture on the internet.

The most important aspect of an NFT is that the original can be tokenized on the blockchain as one of one and stored forever. My own experience discovering these not-so-mainstream forms of art was no different than browsing at a flea market and discovering a $5 item you thought was cool, only to discover later that it was grossly undervalued.

For those interested in scarcity value, this is where things get interesting. So, we have 10,000 Punks and no two Punks are the same. But some Punks share similar Punk characteristics, but not all of them. Stay with me here…There are 6,039 males, 3,840 females, 88 Zombies, 24 Apes and 9 Aliens, of which there are only 44 with a Beanie, 48 with a Choker, 54 with a Pilot Helmet, 55 with a Tiara, etc. These attributes are what make each Punk unique.

(A blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records digital transactions known as blocks. The blockchain is public and distributed over peer-topeer networks on the internet.)

In the spring of 2021, the “art” world witnessed one for the record books and nothing short of astonishing.

I was aware NFTs were being bought and sold on the Etherium (ETH) blockchain. When I arrived at work on the morning of March 11 to read the headline “Beeple sells NFT for $69 Million at Christie’s” I was shocked. Mike Winkleman (the digital artist known as Beeple) reacted on Twitter “Holy You Know What.”

Enter CryptoPunks. A series of 24x24 pixel art images were generated algorithmically by Larva Labs in 2017. A total of 10,000 individually unique Punks were created as an experiment in digital art

You get the point.

Larva Labs gave many away, sold some for minimal amounts and kept an equal amount for themselves.

A marketplace was born and no one was expecting the ensuing parabolic rise in value.

So, which Punk is currently king? It’s CryptoPunk 3100, one of nine Alien Punks, who has a headband and is owned by address 0x7b8961. Our cute little pixel friend was claimed for free on June 23, 2017, sold for 8 ETH ($2,127) on July 6, 2017, sold again for 4,200 ETH ($7.58 million) on March 11, 2021 and is currently offered for sale by owner for 35,000 ETH ($106.4 million). Thank you, Beeple.

When Christie’s hammered the gavel on Beeple’s collage “Everydays: The First 5000 days,” everything

And that’s why it’s good to be a Punk. I only wish I still had my Commander Salamander T-shirt.

and stored on the Etherium blockchain.

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

47

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Four Amigos Love the Pace of the Race

T

By Leonard Shapiro

hey are fast friends, to say the least.

And teammates, too.

Every month or so, these four Middleburg area neighbors pack their bags, their tools and most of all, their powerful Porsche race car, for a trip to a motorsport track, where they compete both behind the wheel and as a well-oiled pit crew in a series of races on the American Endurance Racing (AER) circuit.

Mark Wyatt, who owns a specialized construction business, got them all started a decade ago when he organized a couples go-kart race at the Summit Point track in West Virginia. He was joined that day by Brian Wilson, Peter Pejacsevich and Alex Vogel and their families on what each man described as both a fun and transformative outing.

Not long after that initial outing, they entered a 14-hour go-kart race, and had another fabulous experience. They clearly loved endurance racing, but wanted to move from go-karts into real cars.

In 2015, they purchased their first car, a 1985 Porsche 944—price tag $1,200— that wasn’t even running when it arrived. That was soon fixed, and they entered a “24 Hours of Lemons” race, over the next three years they would compete in five Lemons races.

In 2019, they decided to move into the more competitive AER series. After totaling their beloved 944 at the New Jersey Motor Speedway, the team took a serious plunge into the sport in 2020, purchasing two ISMA Porsche Caymans.

The rest of the 2020 season was a great learning experience, racing against factory cars and some pro drivers. The 2021 season has been a rollicking success, with RSC currently leading the AER team championship with two races to go.

Why RSC? It stands for Raising Seventeen Children, their total number of offspring.

“People say racing, and especially endurance racing, is addictive,” said Vogel, CEO of the Vogel Group, a highly-regarded Washington-based lobbying firm. “It tests you emotionally, physically and mentally. It’s all consuming, in a good way.”

His three pals echoed that same theme. All had some experience in different racing formats, but endurance competition offered far more time behind the wheel, even divided four ways.

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

This Porsche takes the Middleburg guys on rides up to 140 miles an hour.

Four fast friends—Mark Wyatt, Alex Vogel, Peter Pejacsevich and Brian Wilson.

AER was founded in 2014 “with the single purpose of being the premier automotive endurance racing series in North America. AER’s goal is to provide a fun, safe environment for experienced drivers using almost any productionbased race car.”

Also appealing to the 125 registered AER teams is the attraction of racing on some of America’s most iconic motorsport racing venues, including Watkins Glenn in upstate New York and Virginia International Raceway near Danville.

“I raced some in Austria,” said Pejacsevich, an Austrian native and cofounder, managing partner and principal broker of Middleburg Real Estate/ Atoka Properties. “I always had a love of cars and a love for speed, so this is very satisfying. We do it for fun, thrilling fun, and we do it for the love of the sport. We’re a group of friends with similar interests. What we have is very unique, nothing like it.”

“We all help each other,” added Wilson, chairman of Interstate Waste Technologies. “And it’s so much fun, sometimes it’s hard not to think about it….It’s a real test of endurance both for the car and the driver. We race in rain, at night, daylight, hot, cold. It really tests you.”

AER has an eight-race season to accumulate points between March and November. A racing weekend begins with practice Friday morning followed by qualifying in the afternoon Between 25-50 teams compete. On Saturday and Sunday, they race between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. There are no idle moments. When they’re not behind the wheel, the drivers do all the work in the required five pit stops—changing tires and so much more—within an allotted three-minute time span.

AER also places heavy emphasis on driver safety in cars that can reach speeds of 140 miles an hour. RSC experienced the occasional racing mishap, but no injuries.

“What I like about it is the amount of seat time in the car,” said Wyatt, president of Diversified Education Systems. “If you like racing, the more you do, the better. We work really well as a ream; we’ve gotten quite good with pit stops. That part is a lot of fun, too, and we have a lot of fun competing.”

Four fast friends having a ball, to say the least.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

49

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n the Harry Potter series

by J.K. Rowling, when a Dementor causes Harry to faint, he’s revived by his professor with a piece of chocolate—a magical remedy.

At Raymer’s Homemade Candies in Middleburg, the magic is real.

For three generations, Raymer’s has been making delicious homemade, handmade chocolates with old recipes from Germany. They started in Wisconsin, moved to Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and this past summer, opened a shop on the corner of Madison and Federal Streets.

Cayce Rockhill described Raymer’s one recent afternoon in the shop. “This is a family business.

It started with great-grand-parents, then parents, now it’s our generation, and we’re getting our children involved.”

Sue Raymer, the family matriarch based in Doylestown, shared the history. Her father taught Photo by Leonard Shapiro her husband, Mark, who in turn taught their A gift box of chocolate children and spouses, daughter Lysa and her pretzels. husband Kelly, son Cory and his partner Cayce.

When the children moved east from Wisconsin, the parents followed and in their “retirement” opened a candy store in Doylestown.

“My husband missed making the chocolates, so we decided to open a shop where we could get to know our customers and our community,” said Sue. “We thought it would be a part-time, small business, something to keep us a little busy in retirement.”

But the chocolates are simply too good, too delicious. And the business grew.

You could say, by word-of-mouths filled with chocolate covered caramels. Or chocolate covered pretzels.

Raymer’s uses 100% Belgian chocolate as the base of its confections. Inside or wrapped around much of the chocolate is the family recipe for caramel. Over the course of a year, they use 20,000 pounds of cacao to make all the candies.

Best sellers include chocolate (milk or dark) covered caramels, peanut butter cups and meltaways, turtles made with your choice of almonds, cashews or pecans, “Polar bears” which are spanish peanuts draped in caramel and white chocolate, and Virginia toffee, an almost perfect blend of chocolate, toffee and almonds.

And then there are the truffles.

In addition to a case full of bonbons, Raymer’s also has dozens of molds, solid and hollow, to make special chocolates, including Santas, Easter Bunnies, and a Thanksgiving Turkey “chocolate pinata.”

They might even have burgundy and gold football-shaped chocolates for your next tailgate. They can match the colors to Cory Raymer’s jersey from his career as center with the Washington Football Team.

And, of course, there are horses.

Chocolates make great gifts and the Raymers are happy to help you customize for any occasion: baby showers, weddings, graduations. Teacher gifts. Business gifts. Thank-you gifts. Chocolate covered wine bottles.

“We once put an engagement ring in a chocolate mold,” said Sue. Arriving in the shop for fall and Halloween are caramel and chocolate dipped candy apples and candy corn.

“We love Middleburg,” Cayce said. “It’s a place that is in line with our philosophy and approach. This is a family and kid friendly sweet shop. We like to think we have something for everyone.”

And a little magic, too.

Raymer’s Homemade Candies open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 11-7, Saturday 11-5 and Sunday 11-4. www.raymerscandies.com.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

that run 300 years deep.

Thomas Glascock Slater Upperville, 1933

1500 Crenshaw Road • Upperville • VA • 20184 540.878.1476 Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

51

SAY CHEESE: Kelly Harding and Eric Hilgartner

Two Guys Making Cheese Photos by Doug Gehlsen Middleburg Photo

K

By Vicky Moon

elly Harding knows how to say cheese.

And make it. He grew up in Frederick County, Maryland and has “mostly worked on dairy farms.

“I was managing a dairy farm in New Jersey in the early 2000s,” he recalled, adding that he got into the cheese business after not being able to find a cheesemaker himself.

“I decided to figure it out,” he said, doing just that at the Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese at the University of Vermont. “That was a big help.”

Since 2006, Harding has run a cheese consulting business—The Village Cheesemaker. He works with anyone who wants to learn how to make cheese, launch their own business with help on feasibility, budgets, design and equipment as well as management goals.

52

Our goal is to make a local cheese that lots of folks will enjoy.---Kelly Harding, The Village Cheesemaker.

He and Eric Hilgartner are now partners in their own cheese business, with products they’ve named Zulla, Round Hill, Bluemont and Atoka. Their Village Cheese Works is on a farm located between Middleburg and Upperville.

“We wholesale to small shops and retailers, CSAs, wineries, chefs, restaurants and caterers,” Hilgartner said. “All our cheeses are small format soft cow’s milk cheeses that are difficult for many of these businesses to keep in supply consistently at the right quality level and price.”

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

The Village Cheese Works Hilgartner grew up in Round Hill, now lives in Middleburg and has worked at a dairy farm in Aldie, where they also made cheese. Village Cheese Works products range between $6-10, providing a ton of value and quality in shareable portion sizes.

Harding works mostly with farmers wanting to process their own milk.

He sources the milk from the last commercial dairy farm in Loudoun County. “The Potts family has been milking cows on that farm for over 100 years,” he said. “We want to do our best to support their farm.”

In describing the steps of cheesemaking, Harding told Country ZEST that, “First we bring in the milk from the farm. Then it gets pasteurized.

We add cultures and rennet (that coagulates the milk). Then the curd is cut into one-inch cubes. Stirred, then poured into the moulds to shape the cheese. The next day the cheese is salted. It’s then put on racks and moved to the ripening room to ripen before packaging.

In following the photos he continued: “The first photo is our Round Hill in the moulds. There are photos of me loading the Round Hill onto racks and salting it. There are photos of the Zulla in the ripening room.” In the production room, which is not open to the public, Kelly peeks into the cheese vat.

Round Hill in the moulds

“All our cheeses are small format.

4-6 ounces. They’re meant to be shared with a couple or a small group. They are best when enjoyed with fruit, fig jam, a baguette or crackers, and friends.”

How would he pair his cheese with wine?

“I recommend a crisp white wine with the Atoka,” Harding said. “I like the Atoka. It’s different, but delicious.”

Loading onto the racks

Salting

“Folks are loving the Round Hill,” he said of the Brie type cheese, and recommended a chardonnay.” With Zulla, Harding suggested, “It’s best with beer, a brown ale or Belgian Dubbel.”

Hilgartner said the names of their cheeses “really came from a few thoughts, feelings that start with the name of our business. We feel so strongly about supporting the structure and values family farms bring to the community, and we also knew that to get this going, it would literally ‘take a village.’ The name Village Cheeseworks materialized very naturally. We‘re actually carrying forward a traditional naming method of other cheese varieties in the world by using localities. For example, Cheddar is actually a town in England.”

“I want to be able to pursue my craft,” Harding concluded, “improve the cheeses we have already, and explore new products. We also want to be good neighbors and focus on the community.”

Kelly Harding takes a peek in the vat

Kelly Harding http://thevillagecheesemaker.com kellyrharding@gmail.com Eric Hilgartner Village Cheese Works eric.hilgartner@ villagecheeseworks.com

Best when enjoyed with fruit, fig jam, crackers, and friends

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

53

A Sweet Ride From South Riding to an Ooh La La Life

Sunday, October 24, 4 pm – 7 pm Come Chill with Us and Enjoy BBQ & Bluegrass!

Join us behind the ‘Brick House’ at Oak Spring Farm for the tastiest BBQ from the legendary Shaffer’s BBQ and the iconic Bluegrass Band,

The Seldom Scene while watching the sunset behind the mountains! After all, isn’t the preservation of that spectacular landscape what it is all about?

$65.00 per person Includes 1 BBQ ticket and 2 drink tickets Limited Ticketing available For Tickets and Information please call (540) 687-8441 or go online to www.landtrustva.org No tickets will be sold at the gate.

Please join Land Trust of Virginia in celebration of Virginia’s open spaces, natural resources, and cultural heritage.

Raamin Samiyi followed his dreams to make perfect pastry in Paris.

O

By Kelly Querin

n a recent trip to France, I met Raamin Samiyi while dining with friends at a tucked-away Michelin-starred Paris restaurant. We struck up a conversation with the young man in the kitchen and discovered this pastry chef ’s background was as exceptional as the cuisine.

And a Virginian, as well, who grew up in South Riding in Loudoun County but said he had always been obsessed with all things French.

“By the time I was 14, I was begging my parents to let me study abroad and to take French as my language in school,” he recalled. His loving, but practical parents from Iran and Azerbaijan told Samiyi that learning Spanish would be more useful. And studying abroad was not an option.

This dutiful son majored in neuroscience and minored in classical piano at George Mason University. But the siren call of France still beckoned, and he applied to a program to teach English in French-speaking countries. He was accepted and soon assigned to a small village in the Jura region of eastern France.

With all its history, romance and sheer beauty, Samiyi found France to be all he had ever imagined.

Still, in order to stay, continuing his education was the only route. He was accepted to study science at The Sorbonne in Paris, graduating with a master’s degree in pharmacology. The end of school also meant goodbye Paris and hello New York to a real-world job.

For Samiyi, life in New York paled in comparison to France.

Proceeds raised from Sunset in the Field will support Land Trust of Virginia’s mission.

54

“I had a job in a field I was prepared for, but my soul was dying,” he recalled.

After checking the box of “a real job,” he started going door to door with applications for creative industry jobs and soon received a call back for a second interview from a bakery.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Your Plate Reimagined

Take your palate on an extraordinary journey. Discover freshly cultivated flavors that will

Photos by Kelly Querin

These artistic donuts were hardly made for dunkin’.

awaken your senses and feed your soul.

Embellishing his high school summer job in the cake department of Harris Teeter, he secured an interview and soon was being tested making cookies and brownies. He failed at both.

Enjoy our fine cuisine al-fresco with endless views of the scenic countryside.

“Between using salt instead of sugar in the brownies and burning the cookies, I think it was pretty obvious to all I didn’t know what I was doing,” he said.

Yet something caught the attention of the owners, and they took a chance and hired him. They saw his determination, work ethic, and raw talent. Soon he was taken under the wing of Todd Kennedy, New York’s high-end specialty wedding cake designer. From there, it was warp speed into perfecting skills, splitting time between New York and Northern Virginia, where he started Citron Rose Bakery, his own wedding cake company.

But Paris is Paris, and beckoned once again.

He returned to formally study pastry at the famous Ecole Grégoire-Ferrandi.

He had an internship in Avignon in the south of France and was being mentored in what he described as the “perfectionism of pastry.”

He was living his dream, and soon was moving up in the French culinary world, from the renowned chef Thierry Marx to the Paris 5-star Hotel Lutetia, to becoming head pastry chef (“le chef pâtissier”) himself at yet another Michelin restaurant.

And now there’s still more to come. This month, he’ll open MOMZI, a donut café shop near the Opera in Paris, where an American sugary staple will marry with French elegance to create the most beautiful donuts imaginable.

RESERVATIONS AT 855.701.4173 MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

Exquisite styling, single-source quality ingredients, and the ingenuity of matched flavors combine to create picture-perfect, delicious donuts, a rarity in Paris.

Still, for Raamin Sayimi, it’s not about donuts or French pastries. It’s a testament to following a passionate path, sticking with it, and having the courage to believe in a dream.

AT

S A L A M A N D E R

R E S O R T

&

S PA

2021

harrimansgrill.com

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

55

Farming Diversity Flowering in Bluemont

C

By Kerry Phelps Dale

helsea Belle was just 18, in her first year at Virginia Tech, when she read Wendell Berry’s prophetic book, “The Unsettling of America,” written in 1977 as an early call to action on America’s agricultural crisis. It spoke to Belle, and ultimately called her to her passion and profession.

As a horticulture major, she knew she wanted to pursue sustainable, organic farming. No pesticides, no herbicides, nothing that would harm the soil or the environment. So, she fashioned her own Innerdisciplinary degree in horticulture-civic agriculture and American Indian studies.

In 2014, after graduating and having worked on several organic farms, Belle started the 12-acre Bees Wing Farm off a winding dirt road near Bluemont.

It sits at the base of the Blue Ridge on the same land where she grew up and her parents still live in the same farmhouse.

Belle never thought she’d end up back in Loudoun County, where major development is the rule, not the exception, in many once pristine locations.

“It was heartbreaking over the course of my childhood to watch fine agricultural land have concrete poured into it,” she said. “That drove me away, seeing the priority around development and the extraction rather than restoring or maintaining community.”

Still, her home soil was rich and the opportunities to own farmland elsewhere was daunting. So she returned to her Bluemont agricultural roots.

Soon after, Chris Griffin came to help Chelsea transform her farm. He’s a trained Jazz musician and

201030

Photos by Kerry Phelps Dale

Chelsea Belle and her flowery harvest. fixer of machinery. Now married, they met at a farm planting rows opposite each other and they cultivated a relationship while growing vegetables and flowers.

And as they developed their farm business, they fashioned a home and family, as well.

From working at organic farms, Belle learned a few critical lessons she incorporated into her business plan. The most important: commit to diversity.

In 2020, due to the pandemic, Bees Wing Farm lost all wedding and event business and had to be resilient.

She was pregnant with her now 14-month old son, Wendell (named after Wendell Berry, of course) so she stopped selling at farmers markets, too. Still, because she had subscription and delivery programs already in

place, her business pivoted and thrived.

“Flowers were a great thing to connect people during the pandemic,” she said. Her flowers, along with notes from the senders, were ways to reach out to the isolated and to stay connected in small but meaningful ways.

“There are so many awesome farms growing organic vegetables,” she added, “and I realized that when worked on various farms, I always loved flower day.”

So can’t every day be flower day, she asked herself.

And so another pivot, and the farm now grows flowers exclusively.

The couple works the farm full-time, planting, weeding, harvesting and the flower arranging. They do all the farm maintenance and machinery repair.

They have tunnels full of flowers and seedlings, and fields of flowers and cover crops.

“There aren’t a lot of opportunities in farming for upward mobility,” she said. “It’s really hard work for little money. At some point you can’t make a living making $9 an hour. If you’re going to break your back you might as well do it for yourself.”

There’s an authenticity to everything she and her husband do. They’re at once both grounded and visionary. Artist and scientist. Their simple sensibilities belie the sophistication of their business plans and marketing.

They’ve managed to combine sustainable business practices with an accountability to the earth and their community, reaping the benefits of a joyful, meaningful, productive and profitable life.

Details: www.beeswingfarm.com.

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every smile

comes from a place of safety and security that only a home can bring.

The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) and the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) are now underway for all Federal and Virginia State employees and retirees. Please consider giving to Fauquier Habitat for Humanity.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better life.

Donate or volunteer at Fauquierhabitat.org.

56Habbitat CFC_CVC Ad.indd

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

10/14/20 8:53 AM

Vineyard VIEW

From Vision to Reality at Endhardt Vineyards

By Peter Leonard-Morgan

M

any have dreamed of creating their own vineyard, but only a few manage to do it. The latest in this rarefied list of doers are Sarah and Johannes “Hannes” Endhardt, with Photos by Peter Morgan-Leonard their new, eponymous Endhardt Proprietors Sarah and Johannes Vineyards.

“Hannes” Endhardt.

It opened quietly in September, located on 46 bucolic, rolling acres on Lincoln Road, a scenic byway between Middleburg and Purcellville.

The land has been placed in conservation easement, limiting any development in perpetuity, It’s picture perfect at Endhardt’s tasting room. and includes 11 acres under vine and a newly built custom-tasting room. Photographs don’t do justice to this beautiful property.

Hannes hails from Bavaria in southern Germany and developed an appreciation of fine wine early on, thanks to his father’s love of visiting wine properties in Europe, primarily Italy. He continued this tradition, meeting and developing his oenophilic knowledge from experienced winemakers and vineyard owners all over the continent.

Sarah, originally from Minnesota, spent 15 years working in Chicago, but on an assignment in the Middle East, she met Hannes, who was working there on the same project. They tried a long-distance relationship, but when it became obvious that didn’t work, Sarah convinced Hannes to move to the U.S., one of the few countries he’d never visited.

They settled in Chicago, but continued to travel, exploring wineries in France and Italy, and driving through Veneto and Tuscany on their honeymoon. They moved to Loudoun County in 2011, and have since been blessed with a son, Sebastian and daughter, Sofie.

In 2015, inspired by the many picturesque wine properties they had visited, they began sketching out a plan in earnest, crucially deciding to search for the perfect parcel of raw land rather than acquiring an already planted vineyard.

They considered existing vineyard/winery properties, but couldn’t find one that encapsulated their vision. As a result, they tasked their real estate agent to help them find the beautiful location that is now Endhardt Vineyards, which they purchased in 2018.

Ordering grape vines requires significant lead time, one of their earliest challenges. They selected Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. They were painstakingly planted and continually tended to, resulting in the now maturing vines.

Eight acres are three-year vines while three are two-year vines. This fall is truly exciting for the Endhardts with their first harvest, overseen by renowned local winemaker, Ben Renshaw, whose 20 years of experience will be put to good use.

Renshaw, the epitome of the vineyard farmer, predominantly works the vineyard rather than pacing the tasting room. He’s well-known for producing excellent wines at notable properties. Now, he’s embracing the challenge set by Sarah and Hannes to produce excellent Virginia estate wines at Endhardt Vineyards.

While they wait for the day when they can pour their own wines, Sarah and Hannes serve two wines under their own label, Prologue White and Prologue Rose, blended by winemaker Renshaw from selected Loudoun County grown grapes. Tasting room visitors are also offered curated wines selected from some of the Endhardt’s favorite properties, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon which they served at their wedding in Germany ten years ago, and a delightful, effervescent Prosecco.

Endhardt Vineyards is currently open on Saturdays and Sundays between noon and 5 p.m. Hannes and Sarah manage the tasting room themselves, so go soon, and enjoy this authentic, fledgling property before it takes off, which it surely will.

Endhardt Vineyards is located at 19600 Lincoln Road, Purcellville, VA 20132. Go to endhardtvineyards.com.

Helping Families and Friends Honor Their Loved One 106 E. Washington St. P.o. Box 163 Middleburg, VA 20118 540-687-5400 FAX 540-687-3727 4125 Rectortown Rd P.O. Box 111 Marshall, VA 20116 540-364-1731 WWW.ROYSTONFH.COM

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

57

W

By Jimmy Hatcher

hile I was reading Jim Wofford’s very good new book, “Still Horse Crazy After All These Years,” I was reminded of something that happened way back in the 1970s. Jimmy and his wife, Gail, built their house and stable, replete with an indoor arena near Upperville. I happen to have a house in the village with a telephone number that, as it turned out, was only one digit different from the Wofford Stable office phone number. Wofford was in his stable office one morning when the phone rang. It was the late Hebe Waters, who had sold the Wofford’s a piece of land bordering their property they had bought to build on. Hebe was an active fox hunter and the consummate hostess. Her opening line was “Jimmy, can you come to dinner on Friday night?“ His reply was “I’d love to come to dinner Friday night. I assume, the invitation includes Gail, too. “ Hebe said, “Who is Gail?” Somewhat taken aback, Wofford responded, “Well Hebe, she’s my wife.“ “Oh,” she said, rather startled, “When did you get married?“ Said Wofford, “Hebe, I was born married.” Actually, the Wofford’s started dating when they were 14. At that point, Wofford’s little gag was done and we all enjoyed a delightful Friday night dinner with Hebe.

Photo by Doug Gehlsen of Middleburg Photo

Elizabeth von Hassell (far right), executive director of the National Sporting Library & Museum, at the organization’s Polo Classic at Great Meadow in The Plains. Team Holman Hall (right, in orange shirts) of Bill Ballhaus and son Will Ballhaus, with brothers Tolito and Lucio Ocampo won the Mars Cup 9-8.

Nacho Figueras (number 3) and his son, Hilario Figueras played for the NetJets team.

Photo by Peter Leonard-Morgan

Middleburg native and tireless community booster Punkin Lee, head of the Middleburg Business and Professional Association and a long-time volunteer of countless other worthy groups, was honored at the Loudoun Laurels Gala on Friday, Sept. 24 at Landsdown Resort in Leesburg. Conservationist and philanthropist Chuck Kuhn was also honored as the 2020 Laureate.

Photo by Vicki Bendure

Allie Nault, food and beverage manager and certified sommelier at Creighton Farms, and Emmanuel Padilla, of Opus One wine. Held at Creighton Farms, this was the first Opus One tasting in the U.S. of the 2018 vintage. The vintage officially releases to the public on October 1.

Photo by Doug Gehsen Middleburg Photo.

Marlene Allen represented the Potomac Hunt at the Warrenton Horse Show for very popular Hunt Night.

Now proudly open in the heart of Virginia hunt country 116 W Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117 Tel: 270-404-1558 taylor@thistleamericana.com

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Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

An Attitude of Gratitude for Fauquier Free Clinic

T

By Jodi Nash

here’s a compelling story in the Fauquier Free Clinic’s 2020 annual report, about a man named Tony who walked in to make an appointment after weeks of fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Photo by Jodi Nash He had no health insurance, The Fauquier Free Clinic has administered and didn’t want to acquire debt he couldn’t repay. An FFC doctor over 800 Covid vaccine shots, and made dradetected a heart arrhythmia on matic changes in protocols to keep patients and staff safe. Here, physician’s assistant Stacey his first visit, and he was referred Shepherd and pharmacist Margaret Rowe are to a local cardiologist who saw preparing vaccine shots. him later that day.

Tony also had a months-old wound that wouldn’t heal. A local surgeon performed a biopsy, which led to a cancer diagnosis, and ultimately the removal of the lesion. An FFC clinic volunteer helped him enroll in Medicaid, so his heart medicine and ongoing medical needs would be paid for. He’s now an active, grateful participant in his own healthcare.

That’s how it’s done at FFC, whose mission is to provide comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health care (including social services) to eligible citizens in Fauquier and Rappahannock Counties, regardless of income.

It’s an independent non-profit organization, open five days a week, with a walkin clinic on Thursday nights and an annual budget of $1.8 million. It’s funded in part by foundation grants, generous community partners, personal donations, local gifts, and fundraising events.

Executive director Rob Marino has been at the helm for 21 years of tremendous growth. FFC services 1,500 to 2,000 patients a year, ranging in age from seven to 91. It has a robust volunteer force of 200 participants as well as two primary care physicians and two dentists available daily on a volunteer basis. The Medical Director sees patients and works in a part-time funded position. The patient care coordinator, a full-time funded position, is an RN. Founded in 1993, the clinic initially operated out of the Fauquier County Health Deptartment building one night a week. After an explosive expansion of services and patient visits, by 2014 the clinic was struggling for space. The goal was to consolidate services, and create a coordinated medical, dental and mental healthcare facility under one roof.

Fauquier Health Foundation (now the PATH Foundation) purchased the building at 35 Rock Pointe Lane, and leases it to FFC for $1 a year. FFC raised over $1.5 million to renovate it, transforming the space into a modern medical clinic.

“My favorite part of this job, is you think you know what your day will be like, but every day presents an unexpected challenge,” Marino said. “Many of our patients have complex needs, from no housing, transportation, health insurance or family, while coping with life threatening disease.”

FFC connects patients to housing organizations like Fauquier Family Shelter or Community Touch and, once a medical condition is identified, to diagnostic centers and medical specialists who provide free care.

Dr. Diane King, a Fauquier native who practiced family medicine in Remington before retiring in 2015, has been on board from the clinic’s inception, spending at least 6-8 days a month there for almost 30 years.

“I enjoy the diverse ethnic mix of patients and volunteer medical professionals,” she said. “I like being a volunteer medical professional close to home, and the sense of continuity it builds within the community.”

Dr. Ronald Jackson, who had a long-time dentistry practice in Middleburg before retiring in 2016, volunteered at FFC twice a month and said its been among the most rewarding things he’s ever done.

“It’s very well run, and I like the concept of collaborative services in one place,” he said. “Everyone is extremely grateful for everything they receive.”

FFC is looking for professional and non-professional volunteers and always welcomes new patients.

Said Jackson, “We want people to know that if you’re deciding against getting healthier because you have no resources, at least call us for help.”

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Combining History and Ecology to Understand the Past and Present

By Pat Reilly

pivotal British surrender. The National Park Service property reflects that research today.

he academic career of Dr. Emily Southgate of Middleburg has alternated between her two passions, history and ecology.

Fortunately, she’s a leader in combining the two to help communities decide what to preserve and why.

Her work has addressed many questions about diversity of forests and vegetation historically throughout the northeast, starting in New Jersey, where she taught at Rutgers University for many years. She’s now a senior scholar at Hood College in Frederick, Md., where she’s been an adjunct professor since 2007.

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In 1997, Yale University Press published her book, “People and the Land through Time,” which she revised just last year. After 22 years, it remains the only introduction to the field of historical ecology from the perspective of ecology, emphasizing the integration of historical information into scientific analyses.

When the Saratoga National Historical Park, for example, wanted to know how to reconstruct the scene of what many consider the turning point of the American Revolution, they turned to Dr. Southgate.

Using personal diaries of residents of the New York area, published contemporary accounts and land surveys, she was able to describe the lay of the land during the battles that resulted in the

“I felt I wanted to address current issues in historical ecology, such as the proposed geological epoch, the Anthropocene; historical species dispersal and extinction; the impacts of past climatic fluctuations; and trends in sustainability and conservation,” she said of her decision to revise her classic book.

“Earlier research focused more on finding out what conditions were in the past, while now, using multiple historical sources and modeling, scientists are able to get closer to understanding the processes that led to conditions in the past and are those that have shaped the present.”

Dr. Mark Vellend of the Université de Sherbrooke in Quebec said, “After reading this book it will be

impossible to take a walk in nature—pristine or otherwise—without wondering how past human activities may have shaped the ecosystem in ways profound or subtle.”

While Dr. Southgate has not published her work on Virginia, she’s well known for sharing her insights in talks for garden clubs, as president of the Piedmont Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society, and in work with other groups.

Using historical documents, such as the 18th Century “metes and bounds” surveys, to discover that forests dominated the regional land cover when European settlers first began purchasing property in the Commonwealth. Forests were composed mainly of oaks, especially white oak, and hickories, with some chestnut and other species.

When forests grew back after logging, in the mid- to late-19th Century, the chestnut became much more common, before it was wiped out by the chestnut blight in the early 20th Century, she found.

“You can still see chestnut rails in fences around Middleburg,” she said. “They were commonly logged before the 1925 blight.”

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Purchasing and consigning quality antique arms ofmedals, all types swords, knives, bayonets, uniforms, flags, belts, since 1957. Appraisers and other collectable militaria.We to the Smithsonian, thebuckles National Park Service and also thepurchase National Firearms Museum. sporting gun and military related books, gun related Recipient of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Citation for Public Service. tools, vintage ammunition, etc. If you have any antique or collectable you want Address: to Visit our shop!military or gun items thatMailing sell please contact us for more information on our 109 E. Washington St (Rt. 50) Post Office Box 7 appraisal services, consignment rates or outright sale.VA 20118 Middleburg, VA 20117 Middleburg,

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Middleburg, VA 20117 Middleburg, VA 20118 Tel. 540-687-5642 Fax 540-687-5649 Email: info@davidcondon.com www.davidcondon.com Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

the wood supply.

One thing Dr. Southgate believes we may misread about history is that not all forest has been lost to development. She points to a 1937 aerial map of Loudoun that showed it had less forest then than now. Old forests were lost long ago, she pointed out. After farming was no longer as profitable as it had been, abandoned farms returned to forest, but new forests. However, they had lost much of their diversity, especially where they grew on plowed land.

When she’s not teaching and researching, Dr. Southgate is a long-term stream monitor with the Goose Creek Association. She also partakes annually in the Christmas Bird Count and is the past master, whip and still an avid spectator in the esoteric sport of beagling.

Dr. Southgate is currently serving on the Loudoun County Environmental Commission, which has been charged by the Board of Supervisors with advising it on county responses to the environment, sustainability, and the management of energy.

Photo by Linda Millington

Emily Southgate at the annual Christmas Bird Count in the Piedmont area.

Loudoun County was forested, but by 1850, the forest had been depleted quickly by the need for farmland, fencing, firewood and timber to build

homes, barns and other outbuildings. Later in the 19th Century, the Civil War armies on the march back and forth across the front lines further depleted

She said ecological lessons from the past will help focus policies that can protect the natural resources of the county for the future. For example, she cites conserving and enhancing tree cover especially in older forests with high diversity, protecting floodplains, headwaters and stream corridors, and managing land to protect rare and endangered species and habitats.

The second edition of “People and the Land Through Time: Linking Ecology and History” is available at Second Chapter Books in Middleburg.

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As a franchise owner and an active member of my community, I’m proud to be a part of the 7-Eleven and Marshall, VA story. Stop by and see us!

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Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

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The Joy of Teaching Is Music to His Ears

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By Peyton Tochterman

eneral Washington used drums in war to not only boost morale but also to communicate with his troops,” I told my Hill School 7th grade U.S. History class. Attempting to add a little drama, I added, “Like Levon Helm communicating with the world through his drum kit.”

“Mr. Tochterman,” a student began, confusion in her eyes. “I know Washington, but who in the world is Lebron Elm?” Levon Helm is one of my heroes. He was the drummer for The Band and a member of the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame, and I had the profound pleasure to open for him one night at The Paramount Theater in Charlottesville.

This was years before I became a teacher at Hill and was a highlight of my music career as a singer-songwriter and guitar player. That evening, Helm stopped me in the staircase on his way onstage, humbly introduced himself, and said, “That was one of the finer sets of music I have heard in a while.”

In that brief moment, Levon Helm called me to adventure and pulled me across some threshold so I would journey around the world playing music and connecting with people of every walk of life, all the while searching for high achievement through devotion to my craft.

I played 37 states, saw much of Europe and China, and served as a “Cultural Ambassador” in Afghanistan. I played at festivals, church basements, backyard Bar Mitzvahs, radio and television shows, coffee shops, schools, a nursing home or two, and of course, 1,000-seat theaters with some of my musical heroes. None of that would have happened but for The Hill School here in my hometown.

Peyton Tochterman strummed his way around the world.

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Don Carter was my music teacher. After he left Hill, he sang at the National Opera in Washington and then, following his marriage to a career diplomat,

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

in opera houses worldwide. As a child, Don instilled in me a devotion to my chosen craft and a drive for constant improvement.

students to responsibly forward into the world.

Recently, i witnessed a young girl understanding, for the first time, a musical approach to a song she was working on, and seeing the light go off in her head. Amazing! Three hours later, I saw it happen again to a 73-year-old student learning how to play guitar; that light in his eye looked the same as hers. We never stop learning, and I love to teach.

He knew I showed some raw musical talent. I could read music, sing in tune, and display a general understanding of polyrhythms. My first “gig” ever was playing drums on Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic” in Hill’s talent show with Mr. Carter and a host of other musicians.

My parents both worked in Vienna, Virginia, so they arranged for the second grade teacher, the remarkable Linda Schwartz, to pick me up every morning on her way to school from Leesburg. She arrived an hour before school to prep for the day, so I arrived an hour early as well, primed in the car by listening to James Taylor and other musicians.

When Mr. Carter found out I was arriving early, he asked if I wanted to learn a few songs before school started. He taught me CSNY, The Grateful Dead, The Beatles, James Taylor, and more. Sometimes we just talked about music, or life, or baseball, another passion.

We met for two mornings a week over the next two years, never asking for anything in return. He did what great teachers do: he saw a kid with an interest, and he harnessed that interest, cultivated a relationship, and changed my life for the better, forever.

move

Now, I hope to provide the same inspiration, the same dedication, and the same care once afforded to me at Hill. Some day, I can only hope that one of my students will remember me as a hero, as well.

After teaching at Hill last year, through what veteran teachers around the country have called the toughest of At the Kabul Airport on a concert gig in Afghanistan. their careers because of the pandemic, I find myself surrounded by new heroes, a team of Last year, when I was offered the opportunity to dedicated teachers and administrators who show up teach at Hill, my wife, Dornin (also a Hill alum) every day with a smile the Covid masks can’t hide. and children Alma Grace and Judd came back to These days, I often look at my colleagues in awe Middleburg. I wanted to become the kind of mentor of how gracefully they go about their business to my students as Mr. Carter was for me. of teaching all these young minds. I came home From him, I learned the best way to teach is hoping to be the next Don Carter, to profoundly to avoid getting lost in technical details of the change young people’s lives for the better. I’m discipline at hand. Instead, it’s crucial to build going to have to get in line. relationships and be a mentor who empowers

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JOHN COLES

A Natural for Thomas & Talbot

W

By Leonard Shapiro

hen John Coles arrived in Middleburg in 1975, the Keswick, Virginia native knew plenty of people in the area from his days as a fearless steeplechase jockey.

One of them was Phil Thomas, the owner of Thomas & Talbot Real Estate. Not long after Coles moved to these pretty parts, Thomas recruited him as a fledgling agent for the business.

“Phil basically talked me into it,” Coles said recently of his decision to join the firm, despite no prior real John Coles estate sales experience. “He took me under his wing. At that point he wasn’t showing many properties, and he threw me a lot of bones.”

Four decades later, when Thomas retired, Coles was the longest tenured agent at T&T and the obvious choice to head the firm located on the southwest corner of the main intersection of the village. Obviously a quick learner in his early days in the business, Coles has gone on to a highly successful career in local real estate, particularly in selling a number of the largest properties in the area. He officially purchased the agency as of Jan. 1, 2021.

“Buying Thomas & Talbot had been in the works for a while,” Coles said of his discussions with Thomas and his wife, attorney Patti Thomas. “There was really no hesitation on my part. I think they both kind of wanted it to happen this way and we worked out a good deal to make it happen.”

Thomas & Talbot has a staff of 14, and Coles also is paying it forward from the days when Phil Thomas took a chance on hiring him. One of his newest employees is young Will Driskill of Middleburg, only a few years removed from college.

Driskill is a fine rider and had been helping out with the horses at John and his wife Julie’s farm for several years. Coles, of course, has been riding all his life and is a joint master of the Orange County Hounds.

“Will had talked about getting into real estate,” Coles said. “I really enjoy helping young people get started and he’s perfect. A hard worker, everyone loves him. He’s doing a great job.”

Coles is still very much involved in working with potential buyers and sellers. One of his current listings is Heronwood Farm off the Rokeby Road near Upperville. It’s priced at $19.5 million and even includes a regulation 18-hole golf course on its 501 acres.

But he also wanted to emphasize that he and his firm offer homes and property ranging from $400,000 to over $20 million.

“We’re still doing everything,” he said.”That won’t change.”

Nor will his enthusiasm for the real estate business that began right from the start.

“I like getting to know the people and matching the right person with the right place,” he said. “It’s kind of an intuitive thing, and I think I have a pretty good feel for what will make people happy.”

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The 7,500-square-foot main house at Heronwood was re-built in 1905 in the classic Revival style.

PROPERTY Writes

A Golfer’s Paradise Awaits In Nearby Upperville

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t’s been described as the most private golf course in the world, a magnificent 18-hole, 6,300-yard gem completed in 2010 and ready to play not far from the front door of the stately main residence at the 501-acre Heronwood Farm just off the Rokeby Road and less than two miles from the village of Upperville.

Commissioned by the owners, who fell in love with golf after several trips to Scotland, the course has four sets of tees, massive greens, tree-lined fairways and a dozen ponds. It also offers players of all skill levels a challenging test on a meticulously maintained facility that also features wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and nearby Blue Ridge mountains, as well as an occasional foursome of deer, even a stray fox or two.

The 8,250-square foot yearling barn was custom designed by architect John Blackburn and includes 16 stalls off its center aisle.

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

Sunset at Heronwood is difficult to duplicate.

One of a dozen ponds on the 6,300-yard golf course, with a view of the yearling barn up above.

A cascading waterfall greets golfers on their way to the 17th green.

The interior view of the light-filled, airy yearling barn.

Course support buildings include the “golf shop” and bathroom, two equipment buildings, two pump houses and a golf cart storage shed. And there are even life preservers easily accessible at all the fish-stocked water holes just in case anyone slips and takes the plunge.

It’s also horse heaven at Heronwood, including 28 fenced paddocks spread over 200 acres and a total of 45 stalls in the two main barns—yearling and broodmare.

Both were designed by Blackburn Architects, a premier firm specializing in such structures. The continual ridge skylights and vertical ventilation provide exceptional light

Springtime at Heronwood offers a colorful backdrop to every green on the course. and fresh air. Exteriors are fieldstone and stucco to blend into the countryside.

The main residence, Grafton Hall, is a 7,500 square-foot classic Revival style manor house, circa 1905. There are several additional living quarters on the property—a 3,500 square-foot farm manager’s house, a staff house (2,750 square feet) and a stone cottage (1,800 square feet).

Priced at $19.5 million, Heronwood Farm is a stunningly and meticulously maintained property, with pea-graveled roads winding through the gorgeous grounds and accessing the residences, stables and the golf course.

Country ZEST & Style | Fall 2021

HERONWOOD FARM Thomas & Talbot Property: Heronwood Farm Location: Rokeby Road Upperville, Virginia Price: $19.5 million Listing Agent: John Coles 540-270-0094 65

The Unsinkable Molly Morgan

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By Emma Boyce

ays after Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category Four at Port Fourchon, Louisiana, Molly Morgan of Morgan Oil in Marshall received an email from the Louisiana Oil Marketers Association.

It was a Saturday. In Virginia, the hurricane had come and gone, mostly with gentle rain and fleeting headlines touting New Orleans as the sinking city. No one had heard of LaPlace, some thirty minutes from the city, or the other small hamlets in bayou country ravaged by 150 mile-an-hour winds, the fifth strongest winds in U.S. history. And when Molly Morgan saw an area in need of fuel, she didn’t hesitate.

“It’s what we do,”she said in that always cheery voice that makes even a 16-hour drive sound like a walk around the block. “Whenever we see a chance to help someone, we like to pay it forward, whether it’s giving fuel or helping someone with their heating or their air conditioning or even if they’re just having a hard time. It’s easy to help people.”

Within days, Molly, Mike Neish, and Morgan Oil President Greg Gibson began a 1,000-plus mile drive to LaPlace, Galliano, and Mathews, three of the hardest hit towns. Neish and Gibson had done

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it before, delivering fuel to Biloxi, Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina.

“They came back like zombies because they had never seen such devastation,” Molly said.

After two days of driving, they arrived at LaPlace, a ghost town. Mattresses sat in piles outside destroyed houses. Telephone poles and power lines leaned onto the street. Molly noticed an X painted on one house.

After asking several onlookers about its meaning, a man pulled her aside and said it signified a dead body inside.

“The only people in the town were the relief workers, guys from the electric company, Red Cross, and the Salvation Army,” she said. “It was so hot.

The houses were empty. No one was out in their yard. Nothing was open. There were piles of rubble everywhere. It was gruesome in a way because I knew why no one was there.”

Upon arrival, the Morgan Oil crew quickly delivered gallons of fuel in each of the three locations, so people could fill generators or the heavy equipment needed for clearing debris from the streets. At one centrally located truck stop, Molly traded a load of fuel for a diet coke. That gas served many of the relief workers’ trucks, a necessity to get

Go Green Middleburg | Fall 2021

the town up and running.

“Initially we were supposed to drive around and fill up generators but that got complicated because some of the roads were gone and people were still evacuated,” Molly said. “We ended up putting (the fuel) in tanks that made it possible for people to help other people.”

At night Molly, Gibson, and Neish had an hour-long drive back to New Orleans to sleep. The city hadn’t been as structurally affected as southern Louisiana, but things were still far from normal. Some residents looked frantically for houses to rent because their rain-weakened ceilings had fallen through. The trash formed wobbly ziggurats on the sidewalk.

One evening after returning from a delivery, Molly noticed a homeless man sleeping on the ground with a sleeping bag tugged over his head. A sign next to him read: “Free bottled water and MRE Meal. Please Help yourself.”

“That’s the New Orleans spirit,” she said. “Everyone is helping.”

Later that night, Molly circled back and found the man awake and playing the banjo.

“I looked down and said thank you,” she said. “He smiled, shook his head and kept singing.”

MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

S I M P LY B E T T E R .

UNDER CONTRACT

33846 FOXLEASE LN | UPPERVILLE

5742 KEYSER RD | HUME

$9,500,000 | Magnificent Foxlease Farm on 160+/- acres in Hunt Country is a one-of-a-kind equestrian facility: 2 horse barns (12 stalls / 17 stalls), 3 run-in sheds, machine shed, hay barn, riding ring, multiple fenced paddocks, 2 silos, rolling hills and trails to ride out. Beautiful stone center building added to the 19th-century home.

$1,550,000 | This spectacular property, located in the heart of Virginia's Piedmont, is filled with special features! 41 rolling acres, privately situated with lovely mountain views, stocked pond and breath-taking vistas from every window. This custom-built home has a lovely, open floor plan with a main level master suite, complete with a private screened porch.

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Buyer’s Agent: Eric Diello 703.232.7265

Listing Courtesy of Patti Brown, CENTRURY 21 New Millennium

UNDER CONTRACT

LEEDS MANOR RD | DELAPLANE

3718 ROLLING HILLS DR | DELAPLANE

$1,385,000 | Outstanding building lot for your Virginia countryside oasis! Mostly open parcel totaling approximately 147 acres featuring fabulous valley views and Crooked Run. Partially fenced. Only a stone's throw from multiple country towns, ample trails & local activities.

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399 Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

$937,000 | Wonderful Custom Home on 10 Acres in Delaplane! This 4 bedroom, 4 full bath home has 4228 Finished Sq Feet! Step into the open main level with Kitchen, Livingroom, Stone Hearth w/Woodstove, and Dining Room! Lots of Natural Light throughout.

Buyer’s Agent: Eric Diello 703.232.7265

Listing Courtesy of Rick Urben, Redfin Corporation

ST. LOUIS RD | MIDDLEBURG

21 E WASHINGTON ST | MIDDLEBURG

$699,000 | 22+ Acres of Zoned CR-1 with access to Saint Louis Rd (via 50ft easement) and McQuay Lane. Stunning views! Portion of property is in the St Louis sewer overlay district.

$2,500/mo | Fantastic in-town office space on the second floor of a very desirable building. Hardwood floors throughout. 3 Separate offices, one large with fantastic paneling and built-ins. Large kitchen area, private bath. Quiet yet convenient. Many possible uses. Parking available. Freshly Painted. Owner is licensed real estate agent.

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399 Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

S I M P LY B E T T E R . | M I D D L E B U R G R E A L E S TAT E . C O M OFFICE LOCATIONS IN MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, AND CHARLES TOWN CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 | LICENSED IN VA + WV (WV BROKER JOSH BEALL)

Glenbrook may be sold but we look forward to finding a perfect match for you!

LD

SO

Heronwood

Legacy Farm

501 acres $19,500,000 Upperville – Private 18 hole golf course built to USGA standards. 2 world class stables, 45 stalls, arena, 28 fenced paddocks.

500+ spectacular acres with Blue Ridge Mountain views. Convenient to Dulles, Reagan National and Washington, D.C.

450 acres $4,750,000 Stretching from 5 Points Rd in the Plains, to Rectortown and Frogtown Roads in Marshall. Protected by an Easement with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation.

Located in Prime Orange County Hunt Territory, a most prestigious location.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

John Coles | 540-270-0094

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NE

Deerfield Farm

White Oak Farm

Lockwood

Worth The Wait

178 acres $3,900,000 Upperville – Impeccably restored brick manor house, ca. 1844. Perennial gardens and orchard, guest house with theatre, guest/pool house, pool, 5 bay garage, workshop, 2 ponds, fenced fields and paddocks.

93+ acres $3,800,000 Middleburg – 1st time offering of this wonderful ‘Hanback built’ home with spectacular Blue Ridge Mtn views. 5 BR / 5.5 BAs. 4 fireplaces, hardwood floors. Pool & mature landscaping. 2 BR / 1 BA tenant house, 6 stall barn w/paddocks. 2 ponds.

51+ acres $2,800,000 Middleburg – Charming Country Estate in prime Orange County Hunt Territory.

Geothermal heating, salt water pool. Horse facilities include 10 stall stable, 2 wash stalls, feed room and large hayloft. Perfectly sited to enjoy privacy and lovely views.

51+ acres $2,800,000 Marshall – In the heart of Virginia’s horse and wine country w/ breathtaking mountain, lake and pastoral views. Custom-built home has 5 BRs / 4.5 BAs. High ceilings; HW flooring; 4 fireplaces. Fenced, mature pasture for horses. New 45’ x 70’ equip. building.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

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Moss Hollow

Wrenwood

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Boxwood Cottage

Pool House

246+ acres $1,800,000 Markham – Beautiful and protected area of Fauquier County. Pristine forest land with several high points and clearings suitable for building. Spectacular views in all directions. Eligible for division and conservation potential with tax benefits.

25 acres $1,485,000 Western Red Cedar home is a retreat in nature offering stunning interior spaces.

2 story gambrel vaulted great room and main level primary BR suite. Mostly woodlands and gardens with approximately 9 acres in open field suitable for pasture.

.87 acres $1,395,000 The Plains – 5,000 sq. ft. of beautifully finished living space. Open floor plan, built-in shelving, hardwood floors, stone fireplace, 9’ ceilings, many windows, 4 BRs / 3.5 BAs. Wrap around porch, fenced back yard. Generator. Great commuter location.

RENTAL $1,600/mo + utilities Middleburg – Furnished 2 BR pool house for rent on a private property. Open kitchen/living room with Cathedral ceiling.

2 small BRs, each with private bath. All amenities included. Solarium. Washer/ dryer room. Use of pool negotiable.

Rein duPont | 540-454-3355

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Rein duPont | 540-454-3355

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

THOMAS & TALBOT

ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations 2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com CountryZest-TTEP-BC.indd 1

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