“Wayside Theatre has some of the best musical talent around and now we bring you a musical like no other. The musical is a play with-in a concert. Your ears have never heard the likes of this magical musical retelling of The Little Match Girl.” said Warner Crocker, Artistic Director.

The Story line – It is New Year’s Eve and no one wants to be alone. Right? Wrong! Mr. Grump Guy wants to sit at home in his apartment and read instead of being around his old friends to celebrate the old year out and the New Year in.  To him, it does not sound like a fun time, because he feels it places him on a trial of his life. What has he done compared to everyone else up to now? He decides to avoid the crazy and fast-paced world on this eve.

But, his evening is interrupted by a Little Light Bulb girl selling incandescents door to door in his apartment complex. The story is a musical retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Match Girl in modern day terms.

*****

The cast is a mixture of Wayside Theatre audience veteran favorite actor/musicians Steve Przybylski (Shenandoah, Southern Crossroads, Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story, and Smoke on the Mountain trilogy) on keyboard, Vaughn Irving (Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story, Southern Crossroads) on drums, and Sara K. Story (Always…Patsy Cline) on electric violin.

The production is directed by Warner Crocker and Musical directed by Steve Przybylski. The Set Designed by Til Turner, Costume Design by Tamara Carruthers and Lighting Design by Wes Calken.

Performance Times - Striking 12 will begin performances on Saturday, August 28, 2010 and Opening Night is Sunday, August 29 at 6:30 pm. The remaining schedule of performances includes: Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm and Wednesday, Saturday and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Ticket prices are $30 to $25 dollars for adults. Prices for children 5 to 17 are $10 for any performance.

Ask about discounts available for students and seniors. Group discounts are also available. Wayside Theatre also sells discounted subscriptions for the entire season with options that fit any budget and any schedule.

Wayside Theatre is the second oldest professional theatre in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and is celebrating its 49th season of presenting high quality, professional entertainment. Single tickets, subscription packages and group packages can be obtained by calling the box office at (540) 869-1776.

Wayside Theatre is located in Middletown, Virginia on Route 11, Main Street, just north of the intersection of Interstate 66 and Interstate 81.

Learn more on the Wayside Theatre website.

Here are some of the fairs and festivals that you and your family won’t want to miss during the rest of August, Labor Day weekend, and into the month of September. As school starts, and summer winds down, get out and enjoy yourself.

Here’s are some of our favorite picks:

IN VIRGINIA

- Rockingham County Fair – August 16 – 21, 2010
Phone Number: 540-434-0005
Location: 4808 South Valley, Harrisonburg, VA. Free parking.

- Page County Agricultural and Industrial Fair – August 23 – 28
Phone Number: 540-843-FAIR
Location: 15 Fairland Drive, Luray, VA
Admission: Adults $ 4.00 Children (6-12) $ 2.00 Under 6 Free

- Shenandoah County Fair – August 27 – September 4
Phone Number: 540-459-3867

Location: 300 Fairgrounds Road, Woodstock, VA – Exit 283 on I-81

Josh Turner

Grandstand Entertainment: Josh Turner, Randy Houser, Gloriana, Uncle Kracker, Edens Edge, The Instigators.

Demolition Derby: Monday and Tuesday nights starting at 8 p.m. on August 30 and 31, 2010.

IN WEST VIRGINIA

- Taste of the Mountains Food, Wine and Jazz Festival - on August 20 – 22, 2010.

Snowshoe Mountain hosts its annual Taste of the Mountains Food, Wine and Jazz Festival. This mountaintop resort is the perfect setting for a weekend of wine seminars, delicious tastings and plenty of live jazz music.

Those with a sweet tooth won’t want to miss Friday night’s Chocolate and Champagne Reception. On Saturday, Red and White 101 Seminars will teach you the basics of tasting and pairing, followed by that evening’s Grand Tasting Event.

Featuring hundreds of wines from around the world – all perfectly paired with delectable treats – the Grand Tasting is set to a background of live jazz entertainment. The weekend is capped off by a brunch on Sunday, providing a final opportunity to soak up the majestic setting.

Call 877-441-4386 for information. event lodging packages or visit www..

- Appalachian Festival – in Beckley, WV - on August 27 – 29, 2010.

Start each day with a down-home, hearty Appalachian-style breakfast. Sample delicious cuisine at the Taste of Appalachia while enjoying live music. History buffs can take a thrilling ghost tour of Beckley’s haunted sites. Check out beautiful quilts and stunning arts and crafts, lovingly made by more than 100 artisans. Theatre WV offers a Friday night performance by Phil Dirt and The Dozers that will have you laughing and singing along.

Take a coal mine tour or enjoy folk music harkening back to the roots of Appalachia. Stop by the Classic Car Show, featuring more than 100 classic automobiles, then enjoy craft demonstrations, strolling musicians and bluegrass jams. West Virginia’s native talent will surely delight your senses and put a smile on your face.

Events take place throughout Raleigh County at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, Crossroads Mall, Grandview Park, Tamarack, Uptown Beckley, and the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia.

- State Fair of West Virginia – August 13 – 21, 2010
The theme this year is: “Genuine Homegrown Fun.” The Fairgrounds is located 3 miles south of exit 169 off Interstate 64 at Lewisburg, WV.

Fireworks will be presented on  Saturday, August 14 and August 21 at 10:30 p.m. – by Zambelli Fireworks. Get ready for one of the best fireworks shows in the U.S. and abroad, since 1893.

Musical headliners include:

- Friday, Aug 13th @ 8 pm – Boys Like Girls
- Saturday, Aug 14th @ 8 pm – Rodney Atkins and George Jones
- Sunday, Aug 15th @ 1 pm and 6 pm – Freestyle Motocross Championship. Sponsored by Dodge.
- Wednesday, Aug 18th @ 8 pm – Jason Aldean – Special Guest Easton Corbin

Free Music with Gate Admission:
- Monday, Aug 16 @ 8 pm – Shaffer Family, Squire Parsons Trio with Special Guest Ernie Phillips, and Gold City
- Tuesday, Aug 17 @ 8 pm – The Embers (Heart & Soul of Beach Music) and The Tams (Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy)

Daily Free Entertainment with Gate Admission:

Kay Rosaire’s Big Cat Encounter
Watch and marvel as Clayton Rosaire, the youngest professional big cat handler performing today, joins numerous Siberian & Royal Bengal Tigers in an enclosed arena! The tigers will excite crowds of all ages as they demonstrate their athletic ability and great beauty through a complex series of routines, allowing each cat to show it’s own unique, and sometimes, mischievous personality.

Love and respect are obvious, and key, for these animals as they perform under expert guidance. Shows will be presented at three different times during each day of the Fair (noon, 3:30 and 6:30 pm)  on the North end of the grounds. Proudly sponsored by the West Virginia Lottery.

Cirque Equinox – Nouveau Theatrical Circus
The Dream, the reality of  Cirque Equinox – combines one of the oldest and most respected circus dynasties in history with a ‘Broadway Theatrical’ flair. The Nerveless Nocks create the most innovative show of our times. An entertainment trailblazing dynasty established in 1840 in Switzerland, taking Cirque through 2010 and beyond.

Fairgoers will delight in mesmerizing aerial feats, stunning acrobatic performances, and other dynamic displays of coordination and strength. Transforming the ordinary, into the extraordinary, enthralling the imagination from beginning to end with brilliant costumes, and moving musical scores.

Showtimes for Cirque Equinox – Fridays and Saturdays – at 11:30, 2:30, 5:30 and 8:00 pm.  All other days – at 11:30, 2:30 and 5:30 pm

ZOOperstars

The ZOOperstars – Lovable. Outrageous. Zany. Unpredictable. Hysterical. Incredible. Unbelievable.

The ZOOperstars will rock the house with routines that fairgoers of all ages will love. Whether they are wildly dancing on stage, creating havoc through the midway, or mingling with the audience in the grandstand, the ZOOperstars, will grab you all by the funny-bone.

Six crazy characters will be on hand every day of the Fair to promote their crazy antics with Fairgoers of all ages. Location: All over the grounds – anytime between 11:00 am and 8:30 pm (Proud to parnter with WVNS – Channel 59.)

Also appearing on the NTelos Center Stage:

The Dennis Lee Show will be performing August 13 – 19,  and Aug 21. Dennis blends musical favorites from every genre with improvisation & audience antics. Something for everyone, from baby to teenager; parent to grandparent and singles to couples, makes The Dennis Lee show a supreme showcase. Don’t miss these shows – 11:00, 2:00 and 5:00 pm.

ZIV, an Alternative Rock Band f rom Los Angeles, CA, is comprised of lead singer, Ziv; bass player and background singer, Kenny; and drummer, Mark. With two albums already out, ZIV is hard at work on a third. ZIV influences include, Seal, DMB, Linkin Park, FooFighters, U2, Coldplay, Incubus, Maroon 5 and many more.They will be performing on Fri, August 13 and Fri, August 20 – at 12:30, 3:30 and 7:00 pm.

*****

- Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Air Show – Sept. 4 – 6, 2010.

Labor Day celebration at 222 Sabre Jet Blvd. in Martinsburg, WV (in Berkeley County)
Contact phone: 304-616-5100
GPS: Latitude: 39.406109 and Longitude: -77.991108.

The 167th Airlift Wing is proud to be hosting an Open House and Air Show this year, September 4-5, 2010. Building on the success of the 2008 Spirit of America Over Martinsburg Air Show, the 167th Airlift Wing, along with the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport and the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle, will be bringing together some of the nation’s most exciting aerial demonstration teams including the U. S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U. S. Army Golden Knights. Free parking. Live entertainment. Restrooms.

- Pickin’ in the Panhandle – September 10-12, 2010
Near Martinsburg, WV at the Lazy A Campground, 317 Kathy’s Lane, in Hedgesville, WV.

Pickin’ in the Panhandle, the WV State BBQ & Bluegrass Festival celebrates the best of barbecue, bluegrass and family fun so close to home but so far away from the ordinary.

The music just can’t be beat:

MAIN STAGE – Friday
6:30 – 7:15pm –  The Back Creek Valley Boys
7:45 – 9:00pm –  Shenandoah

Lonesome Highway

MAIN STAGE – SATURDAY
10:00 – 10:45am –  Clowes and Dunlap Band
11:00 -  11:45am –  Lonesome Highway
12:00 – 12:45pm –  Claire Lynch Band
1:00 – 1:45pm –  Josh Williams Band
2:00 – 2:45pm –  G2
3:00 – 3:45pm –  Newfound Road
4:00 -  4:45pm -  Claire Lynch Band
5:00 – 5:45pm -  Josh Williams Band
6:30 – 7:45pm –  Mountain Heart
8:15 – 9:30pm – Joe Diffie Bluegrass Band

PICKIN’ PORCH – SATURDAY
10:00 – 10:45am –  Rolling Coyotes
11:00 – 11:45am – Appalachian Flyer
12:00 – 12:45pm – Clowes and Dunlap Band
1:00 – 1:45pm -  G2
2:00 – 4:00pm – Bluegrass Contests
4:00 – 4:45pm – Lonesome Highway
5:00 – 5:30pm – BBQ/Bluegrass Awards
5:30 – 6:00pm - The Back Creek Valley Boys
6:15 –  :7:00pm – Appalachian Flyer
7:00 – 10:00pm – Open acoustic jam

MAIN STAGE – SUNDAY
10:00 – 11:45am – The Gibson Brothers
11:00 – 11:45am – Missy Raines
12:00 – 12:45pm – Jetts Creek
1:00 – 1:45pm – The Gibson Brothers
2:00 – 2:45pm – Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice
3:00 – 3:45pm – The Grascals
4:00 – 5:00pm – Ricky Skaggs

Ricky Skaggs

PICKIN’ PORCH – SUNDAY
11:00 – 11:45am – Sleepy Creek
12:00 – 12:45pm  – Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice
1:00 – 1:45pm – Missy Raines
2:00 – 2:45pm –  Jetts Creek
2:45 – 3:00 – Backyard BBQ Awards
3:00 – 4:00pm –  Sleepy Creek

Lazy A Campground is approximately one hour from the DC and Baltimore Beltway, making it easy to come and enjoy the best countryside views that Berkeley County, West Virginia has to offer…the way it’s meant to be seen.

Beautiful Back Creek Valley, located 8 miles off of Interstate I-81, and the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Convention and Visitors Bureau would like to welcome you to the open meadows, meandering creek, and the big red barn of the Lazy A Campground. The scenery alone allows for the perfect setting to do a little pickin’ of your own, as you sink your teeth into some of the best BBQ in the region and enjoy some real roots music by some of the finest bands in Appalachia.

In addition, Heritage artists demonstrate and sell fine, handmade crafts and other activities offers fun activities for kids of all ages and the Beer Garden will be the perfect compliment to a thick, juicy bite of brisket for the grownups. (Must be 21 and have ID to receive a bracelet).

Professional and Backyard BBQ chefs are invited to participate in their various contests. No refunds. Held rain or shine. Tent and trailer camping is available during the event by calling the Convention Bureau at 304/264-8801.

IN MARYLAND

- The Augustoberfest Event – on August 21 and 22, 2010 in Hagerstown, MD – pays tribute to the area’s rich German heritage and supports scholarships for exchange students to Hagerstown’s Sister City – Wesel, Germany. This exciting event is run by the nonprofit organization, the Augustoberfest Charitable Foundation.

This 15th annual event will feature two days of festivities found at traditional Oktoberfest celebrations in Bavaria. All activities are held rain or shine under a large Festival Tent in Downtown Hagerstown’s Central Parking Lot.

The schedule runs on Saturday; August 21, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday, August 22, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with gates opening at 10:30 each day. Tickets will be $5/day, children 12 and under/free. Tickets will be available at the front gate Hospitality Tent.

The Augustoberfest will again be working with the Piedmont Pacers to sponsor a Volksmarch on August 21, 2010 beginning at 8 a.m. A volksmarch is a non-competitive walk. This events combines fun, fitness, and fellowship. This is a 10K walk with a shorter 6K trail for those who desire a shorter distance.

For both Saturday and Sunday, participants will have a chance to enjoy Bavarian food, entertainment and fun. Headlining the show is die Schlauberger, the Heidi and Heimat Echo Band and Alt Washingtonia Schuhplattler Verein. All of the entertainment offers a glimpse into German culture and folklore through authentic music, dance and songs. The popular Alphorn will be back as well. All of these entertainers are crowd pleasers.

Also being offered again, Fruhschoppen, or German brunch, features all the best of Bavarian food and drink. Sponsorship packages at the $1,500 level and above can include tickets for delicious food and drink at the Sunday event, between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

In addition, an expanded children’s entertainment area will feature a variety of activities and entertainment for the youngest German enthusiasts. A craft vendor area promises an abundance of holiday and decorative items.

For more information, call 301.739.8577, ext. 116.

IN PENNSYLVANIA

- Franklin County Fair - August 15 – 21, 2010
In Chambersburg, PA. (Franklin County)
Phone: (717) 597-8178

See web site for the full schedule of events.

Williamsburg area, Virginia – Busch Gardens is celebrating summer in a big way with a cool deal for families – free admission for kids 9 and younger. From June 21 through August 31 2010, Virginia residents can get a free child’s admission to Busch Gardens – a $51.95 value -with the purchase of an adult single-day admission ticket. This offer is available only online by visiting the Busch Gardens web site.

“We’re making summer fun more affordable for families,” said Park President John Reilly. “This kid’s free offer represents a significant savings for families with young children.”

Busch Gardens has more than 50 rides and attractions, including Sesame Street Forest of Fun and the Land of the Dragons that appeal to kids 9 and under. Families also can’t miss the all-new nighttime spectacular “IllumiNights: A Busch Gardens Encore.” The park comes to life during this nighttime summer celebration that combines the best live performances, music, special effects and fireworks.

Many other things to do this summer in Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown

We’re all young at heart! Known as the birthplace of American democracy, Virginia’s Historic Triangle is comprised of three cities: Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown.

During July and August 2010, the Historic Triangle certainly offers families a whole host of fun and educational activities – without paying an arm and a leg. Williamsburg itself is billed as a “town-sized living history museum” and tells inspirational tales of the United states’ journey “from colony to country.”

Close by, at Historic Jamestowne, first permanent English settlement in America, tells the story of  John Smith and Pocahontas.  And, at Yorktown, you can walk with your kids down the “Road to Revolution,” an outdoor walkway to the main museum building, where an introductory gallery presents the Declaration of Independence.

Here are some of the events happening during July and August that are fun for kids of all ages:

- July 4th Celebration -from 10 a.m. to 10.m. – What a perfect place to be for Independence Day! Enjoy historic events held all day in Colonial Williamsburg, including a salute to the 13 colonies, a garden party and plenty of fireworks.

The jammed-packed Fourth of July events in Williamsburg include:

•10 -10:30 am – Salute to the States – Market Square

•10:30 – 12 pm – Revolutionary City: Citizens at War – Historic Aream from Botetourt St. to the Capitol

•11 am – 11:10 am – The Times that Try Men’s Souls: A Patriot Speaks – Capitol, South Side

•12:30 – 12:45 – A Declaration of Independence – Duke of Gloucester Street (Capital Circle)

•1:30 – 2:30 pm – Planters and Patriots: Songs of the Revolution – DeWitt Wallace Museum

•3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – Planters and Patriots: Songs of the Revolution – DeWitt Wallace Museum

•8:15 – 9:15 pm – Music for the Fireworks – Market Square

•9:15 – 9:35 pm – Fourth of July Fireworks – Historic Area

In addition, on the July 4th weekend, don’t miss:

- Liberty Celebration at Yorktown Victory Center in Williamsburg, VA – Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4 – In the autumn of 1781, the American Continental army commanded by George Washington, with the assistance of a French army, defeated the British army of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia, forcing the British to surrender.

- Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at Berkeley Plantation – Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4 – Families can participate in the Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at Berkeley Plantation, and wander through the mansion’s beautiful garden.

For more about 4th of July in Williamsburg, visit their visitors web site.

*****

Family events for the rest of the summer:

- Merchant Square Free Outdoor Concert Series – On Wednesday nights in July and August, beginning July 7 – with extra concerts on Friday, June 25 and Saturday, July 3. Starts at 7 p.m.

Locals bring blankets, chairs and dinner and set up for some easy listening in Merchants Square. Come early to get a good spot. (Tip: The movie, “Jaws,” will be playing on July 4.)

- The Virginia Shakespeare Festival - “As You Like It” – July 6 through August 1 – Expose your kids to the best of William, Shakespeare, that is!

Cousins Rosalind and Celia take off to the Forest of Arden, in search of the wrongfully banished Duke and his group of merry men. Rosalinds disguise as a boy may help keep them safe, but also will prove an interesting obstacle to wooing the handsome Orlando.

“As You Like It” is one of the Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, with songs galore and the famous “7 Ages of Man” speech to enliven the romantic escapades of not just one but four somewhat mis-matched couples.

The Shakespeare tradition in Williamsburg started way back in 1753 – when London’s Hallam Troupe put on a production of “The Merchant of Venice in Williamsburg.” The celebration of his writing continues today, thanks to the effort and hard work of William & Mary’s Department of Theatre, Speech and Dance.

The Festival generally includes three productions and a youth drama camp. Admission is: Adult $25; Student $15; Child (7-13) $10. It’s located at 601 Jamestown Road in Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall, College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187. Call (757) 221-2666 for information and tickets.

- “Werowocomoco: Seat of Power” Special Exhibition at Jamestown Settlement – though November 15, 2010  - from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Werowocomoco was the principal residence of Powhatan, the paramount chief of more than 30 Indian tribes in Virginia’s coastal region at the time English colonists arrived in 1607. Archaeological excavations have revealed not only that the York River site was a uniquely important place during Powhatan’s time, but also that its role as a political and social center predated the Powhatan chiefdom.

More than 60 Werowocomoco artifacts spanning 10,000 years are shown for the first time in a museum setting. The six-month exhibit examines the relationship between material culture and political authority in the region from prehistoric times through the early 17th century and what the site means to descendent Virginia Indian communities today.

Location: Jamestown Settlement, 2110 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185. Admission Fee: $14; $6.50 (6-12 years old). Phone: (757) 253-4838 or Toll-Free: (888) 593-4682. Website: www.historyisfun.org.

- Free Summer Movies on Prince Georges Street - Join the fun every Sunday all summer long .  Historic, downtown Williamsburg’s Prince George Street is the site of the most fun your family will have this summer.

Box office hits, great classics, comedies and family entertainment films run throughout the summer. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy a movie under the stars. Popcorn is only 25 cents.

To see a schedule of films, visit their web site. “Jaws” will be playing on July 4th.

- Crack the Code – runs through Monday, August 9, 2010 – in the Historic area of Williamsburg City – at 1 Visitor Center Drive – Learn about real secret codes and ciphers George Washington and other leaders used during the Revolution. Try your hand at “cracking the code” using the spy techniques you’ve learned. Geared for children ages 8 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Programs and exhibitions at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum are supported by the DeWitt Wallace Endowment Fund. Opens at 4:00 p.m. Their general reservation line is (800) HIS-TORY.  Their web site is: www.history.org.

- Listen, My Children: Legends, Myths and Fables for Families -in the Historic area of Williamsburg City – at 1 Visitor Center Drive.

Bring the entire family to hear fun and interesting stories that everyone will enjoy. “As the sun sets and the moon rises, storytellers will share their tales as young and old hear some of the same legends that entertained families of centuries past.”

“Listen My Children” is held through September 4, 2010 – on Monday, Friday and Saturday each week. (There is no program September 3.) Programs begin at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and children age six and over, and $7.50 for children under six. (All children must be accompanied by an adult.)

Their general reservation line is (800) HIS-TORY.  Their web site is: www.history.org.

- Colonial Downs Thoroughbred Racing Season – All kids love action, and animals! Treat the family to an exciting day at the races.  The 2010 Season runs through Wednesday, July 21, 2010 – from 1 to 5 p.m. – at the Colonial Downs Racetrack. Admission is only $2; kids 12 and under are free.

Enjoy pari-mutuel thoroughbred horse racing at Virginias only racetrack. Located at I-64, Exit 214 in historic New Kent, Colonial Downs features 10 races daily over the Secretariat Turf Course. Bet to win, place or show, or try an exacta, trifecta and even a ten cent superfecta. The first race on Saturday and Sunday is at 1 p.m.; first race on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday is at 4 p.m.

- Star Party and Laser Light Shows – Saturday,  July 10, 2010 – from 7:30 p.m.  to 12:15 a.m. – Here’s a fantastic, light-filled, educational event at the Virginia Living Museum that’s out of this world.

Free observing begins at sunset in the VLM observatory. The planetarium program “Astronaut” is at 7:30 p.m, followed by the laser light concerts.

Laser light shows include: Laser Country (family) at 8:30 p.m., Laser U2 (rock) at 10 p.m., and Pink Floyds “Dark Side of the Moon” at 11:30p.m.  All shows are o9nly $6 each. The Museum is located at 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., in nearby Newport News, Va. For information, call (757) 595-1900
or visit the Virginia Living Museum web site.

- T-Rex Day at the Virginia Living Museum – on Staurday, July 11, 2010 – also at the Virginia Living Museum, in Newport News, Virginia.

See real dinosaur and Ice Age specimens and parts from the museums collection, talk to staff paleontologists, dig for fossils and discover more about ancient life. Also, the Rainbow Puppets perform “The Really BIG Dinosaur Show” at 11 a.m. Cost: $15 adults, $12 children 3-12 years old.

For information, call (757) 595-1900 or visit the Virginia Living Museum web site.

- Bastille Day Concert - Wednesday, July 14, 2010 at 6 p.m. – at the Historic Freight Shed, Riverwalk Landing. This is a free event.

The Peninsula Concert Band will present a lively concert of French music to celebrate the area’s French connections and the 20th anniversary of Yorktowns sister-city relationship with Port-Vendres, France.  Call (757) 890-5313 for more information.

- Tall Ship Kalmar Nyckel Visits Yorktown – a special program at Riverwalk Landing that runs from Thursday, July 15 through Sunday, July 18 – at 10 a.m. Visit the Riverwalk Landing piers in historic Yorktown and step aboard the Kalmar Nyckel, The Tall Ship of Delaware. This nostalgic ship will offer 3-hour sails (admission ticket required).

The Kalmar Nyckel serves as Delawares seagoing goodwill ambassador. Built by a group of committed citizens, the ship is a continuing witness to the courage and spirit of those individuals who undertook the mid-winter North Atlantic crossing in 1637-1638. This event is sponsored by the Yorktown Foundation Tall Ships Committee and York County. For tickets or more information, call (866) 659-7447 or 302-429-7447.

And, of course, families can’t forget Water Country USA, the largest water park in the Mid-Atlantic. It offers 43 acres of pools, children’s play areas, lazy rivers and water rides. Your family will have a blast at “Rock ‘n’ Roll Island,” featuring nearly 600 feet of body slides, a 700-foot lazy river and a 9,000-square-foot pool.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Island celebrates the music of the 1950s and ‘60s – the era that all of Water Country USA is themed after. Or take a “cruise” down Hubba Hubba Highway, Water Country USA’s radical river adventure. For guests who want to relax, the park has about 1,500 free lounge chairs and 16 private cabanas for rent. Check out their web site for more details, or call (800) 343-7946.

Cristina’s Cafe at 219 W. King Street  in Strasburg, Virginia, is now hosting a farmer’s market in their parking lot every Friday night from 6 to 8 p.m.

You’ll have a chance to support local farmers and can purchase some of the meats, cheeses, breads and produce that the Cafe uses in their homemade, fresh recipes.

Live Music on the Weekend

Cristina’s Cafe also features music on the weekends. Tonight, Saturday, May 29, 2010, Five of A Kind, a popular local Bluegrass Band will be playing for the crowd. Reservations are recommended; the cover charge is $5.00.

Every Sunday night, the Cafe hosts an Open Mic Night for local talent from 6 to 10 p.m..

This Memorial Day, specials at the Cafe include:

- Creamy Zucchini & Corn Soup – cup $3.95 Bowl $4.95

- Crimini Mushroom, Cornerstone Farms Chevre & Strasburg-grown Spinach Quesadilla – $6.95

- Locavore’s Salad of the Week – Local greens served with Cornerstone Farms Chevre, a rosemary citrus vinaigarette & candied walnuts – $6.25

- Cristina’s Nachos – served with mozzarella, cheddar, black beans, jalapeños, tomatoes, onions, sour cream & salsa – $7.95

- Beef Stroganoff – a classic Russian comfort food dish using Golden Farms beef with a creamy mushroom sauce. Served over noodles & accompanied with a baby greens salad – $13.95

- Wendy’s “MURRY” – where Mexico meets Curry; a creamy, coconut curry sauce with sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, seasoned with chipotles & fresh herbs from our garden. Served over white jasmine rice – $10.95
(Add chicken for $3.00.)

- Mexican style Crab Cakes – served with a baby greens salad & a cup of today’s soup – $13.95

- Carnitas Tacos – three pork tacos served Mexico City style with lime, cilantro & onions. Served with Spanish-style rice, black beans & green salsa.
$11.95

- The “GOLDEN” Burger – back by popular demand, the only local, grass-fed beef burger in the valley! Served with french fries – $9.95

Desserts: Dark Chocolate Cream Pie – $4.25; Farm Fresh Creme Brulee – $3.95; and Blueberry Lime Pound Cake – $3.50.

*****

Contact Information and Hours of Operation – Cristina’s Cafe:

Cristina’s Cafe is open from: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Monday, and Wednesday – Saturday, unless otherwise noted on their web site.

Sundays, they are open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. Their phone number is (540) 465-2311, and their email is:  ccafe ~at~ shentel.net.

Birth and death

In the video below is a picture of a SSgt embracing a man in a church pew.  This is a friend of a friend from Las Vegas, Nevada – Gunnery Sgt McCarty who lives in Stafford, Virginia now.  His wife has just given birth to their first son, Theodore Oak McCarty (on 5/27/10).

The older man, is Jon Lucas Sr., who lost his son in the Battle of Fallujah.

God Bless our Marines and all of the soldiers serving in all branches of our military – in our past and in our present.

We pray for peace today so that no soldiers – and no lost lives – will be necessary in the future – for any country or any family on Earth.

*****

If you have a military tribute send it to Editor ~at~ 7Bends.com, and we’ll see about publishing it on 7Bends.com this Memorial Day weekend. Thanks to Nan Kearney for this information.

Shenandoah Valley, VA – Well, it’s the official start to Summer in the Valley! Here are some of the great events planned for Memorial Day Weekend in the Shenandoah Valley. Grab the kids and come on out.  Relax and enjoy!

In Winchester – Frederick County

Visit the Winchester Visitors web site for more information. On May 29, make plans to bring the kids to the Winchester All-American Soap Box Derby at 8:00 am.

Veramar Vineyards is celebrating Memorial Day at noon. And, the Newtown Heritage Festival will be going on all day.

In Clarke County

On Saturday, May 29 – It’s the St Mary’s Church Annual Strawberry Festival! Activities include:

- Yard sale – 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Features plants, crafts, ice cream, jam, a raffle and more.-

- 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Features homemade fried chicken dinners and strawberry shortcake 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

Location: Barnett Street on the left at the top of Church St. in Berryville, VA. Phone: (540)955-3397.

On Saturday, May 29 – Live Music at The Battletown Inn – Featuring Medicine Wind” at 7:00 p.m. Nightly bar and dinner specials. See website for details.

On Sunday, May 30 and  Monday, May 31 – The Horseshoe Curve Benevolent Association Barbeque at Nalls Farm Market – on Route 7 in Clarke County. From 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Barbeque will be available, sandwiches and pints. All proceeds will go to help local causes.

In Shenandoah County

Count on Shenandoah Caverns to honor our military.

During Memorial Day weekend, all Military Service Members with Military ID (Active or Retired) will receive a Free Adult Combination Admission to the Shenandoah Caverns Family of Attractions, including the Caverns, American Celebration on Parade, Main Street of Yesteryear exhibit and the Yellow Barn. (Special group rates are extended to family members with ID during Memorial Day weekend.)

Location: 261 Caverns Rd., Shenandoah Caverns, VA 22847. Exit 269 off Interstate-81. Phone: (540) 477-4300

Date/Hours:
Friday, May 28, 2010 – Monday, May 31, 2010 (9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)

In Page County

Family car trips and weekend getaways are closer than you think.

The Luray-Page County Visitor Center will have extended hours from Memorial Day (starting Friday, May 28 until Labor Day Weekend) from 9 am – 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Grab the kids and come see their new location in the historic restored Luray Train Depot. It’s a wonderful piece of Shenandoah Valley history. Page County offers colorful country roads, Civil War trails, vista overlooks, rivers, parks, and small town charm. (Luray-Page County has been designated the “Cabin Capital of Virginia.” It’s less than a 2 hour drive from the D.C. Metro area.)

In Rockingham County

On May 31 in Harrisonburg, Virginia – Don’t miss the 24th Annual Memorial Day Horse Fair and Auction at the Rockingham County Fair Grounds. Phone: 540-434-0005.

*****

Thanks to our military for giving us the freedom to enjoy these activities with friends and family.

The Wakemans Grove Church of the Brethren traces its beginning to September 22, 1900, when Pleasant View Council appointed J. Ozias Wakeman to solicit funds to build a church house on his land. Since the building of the house at Wakemans Grove the pulpit has been supplied by a number of ministers, among whom are: B.W. Neff, D.P. Wine, John H. Garber, Charles Nesselrodt, Oscar Bowman, L.D. Wakeman, Samuel Long, Lawrence M. Helsley, J. William Harpine, Charles H. Wakeman, H. Early Wakeman, Olin B. Landis, Bennie E. Landis, L.S. Miller, Stanley R. Wampler, John F. Graham, Joseph S. Rittenhouse, Dale Varner, Jimmy Robinson, A. Gene Knicely, and Charles “Chip” Leatherman.

First mention of Love Feast was in 1905. As many as 300 communicants are said to have taken part in early communion services. Surrounding area homes were opened to the people, each accommodating as many as 25 or 30 overnight guests.

On January 1, 1976, the church moved forward into a full time pastoral program with Rev. Jimmy Robinson serving as the church’s first full time pastor.

The church web site states: “In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being sustaining all things by his powerful word” (Hebrews 1: 103). To see more about the history of the church and the Shenandoah Valley area, visit their web site (below).

Contact Information

The church address is: 668 Wakemans Grove Road, Edinburg, Virginia 22824. The church phone number is(540) 984-8383 Their email is: wgcob at shentel.net

Directions: Here is the map on their web site.

Music on Main during 2009.

Woodstock, VA – The beautiful, historic town of Woodstock, Virginia has announced their Event Schedule for the rest of 2010, and there’s something fun for young and old alike. Make plans to attend today. These events are free, open to the public, and are all outdoors. Grab your family, relax and enjoy!

Music on Main – Concerts in the Park Series – from 7 to 9 p.m.
- Friday, May 28, 2010 featuring The Amazing Country Band
- Friday, July 2, 2010 featuring The Bill Vaughan Band
- Friday, August 20, 2010 featuring The Amanda Wilkins Band
- Friday, September 10, 2010 featuring John Richards
and the Virginians

Dancin’ in the Street – June 25, 2010 – 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Featuring The Robbie Limon Band – Music, food, arts and crafts, children’s activities and wine tastings.

Fireworks – Saturday, July 3, 2010 – 9:30 p.m.
Shenandoah County Fair Grounds, in Woodstock, VA
Rain date: Saturday, July 10, 2010

Route 11 Yard Crawl – Saturday, August 14, 2010
Beginning at 7:30 a.m. – 43+ miles of yard sales along historic Route 11 in Shenandoah County, including Woodstock, VA

Halloween on Court Square – Saturday, October 30, 2010
From 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Light up Woodstock – Friday, December 3, 2010 – 6:00 p.m.

Discover Christmas in Woodstock – Holiday Shopping Specials
Saturday, December 4, 2010- 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

For more information, call (540) 459-3621 or visit the town of Woodstock web site.

Stephens City, VA – Looking for a unique place for your upcoming wedding? Or for a group meeting or festive gathering? A place that offers comfort and convenience in a serene, private setting? Consider this precious gem that not too many people know about – the grounds at the Unity Church in Stephens City, Virginia.

Stephens City is located in the historic Shenandoah Valley, just south of Winchester, and just above Strasburg – close to Route 11, Interstate 81, and Route 66.  Many people fly into Dulles International Airport, and then make the easy drive to the Valley. It’s only 70 miles away, yet you’re in a totally different place – one of peace  – where your can breathe, where the world isn’t clamoring all around you.

The Unity of the Shenandoah property is available for day or evening weddings and events. (If you need a minister, Reverend Airin Wolf of the Unity Church has a beautiful service that she customize to the bride’s and groom’s wishes.)

Booking Details

Address: 6470 Old Valley Pike Stephens City, VA 22655 – Located two miles south of Stephens City on Route 11 (Old Valley Pike) at Vaucluse Road.

Reservations require the completion of a Rental Contract. For rental rates or to discuss catering options, call (540) 868-1903, or e-mail: unityshenandoah at verizon.net. Visit their website.

Where To Stay

The Fairfield Inn & Suites is just down the Pike (8 miles away, according to Mapquest) – in Strasburg, VA.  It’s a great place for the wedding party and their guests to stay, reserving a block of rooms.

The staff is friendly, the rates reasonable, and there’s a great complimentary hot breakfast each morning. They also have suites overlooking the mountains, an indoor pool and spa, and a workout gym.

- The Fairfield Inn and Suites -
Address: 33760 Old Valley Pike, Strasburg, Virginia 22657, USA.

4 floors, 64 rooms, 20 suites., non-smoking facility, near Civil War battlefields (Cedar Creek, Hupp’s Hill, New Market) and historic museums and attractions (Belle Grove Plantation, Museum of the Shenandoah Valley). Call General Manager Kathy Tartaglia at (540) 465-1600, or email her at: strasburg.ffi.gm at pgmhotels.com.

For more information about the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Strasburg, log onto their web site.

Shenandoah Valley – Times Square isn’t the only hip place to be on December 31. Many communities across the United States now have events to celebrate New Years called “First Night.” Our area is no exception. Almost in every nook and cranny of the Valley you can join other people in ringing in 2010. Here is a sampling of the various festivities, so grab your warm clothes and get ready for some fun!

- Buchanan -  Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing – Enjoy a reception featuring music, light refreshments and games beginning at 8PM. Then, enjoy a free movie at 10PM, followed by an 11:30 PM gathering in the Fellowship Hall and on the front lawn of Trinity Episcopal Church to ring in the New Year. Activities will include watching the dropping of the New Year’s Ball and the ringing of Buchanan’s historic church bells throughout downtown at midnight.

- Harrisonburg – Dec 31 – First Night Harrisonburg – Celebrate the New Year with your family and community. Festivities and entertainment begin at 6:00 p.m. and conclude with a fireworks spectacular at midnight. See their website for details.

- Leesburg - Dec 31 – First Night Loudoun County – Ring in the new year in Downtown Leesburg at First Night. There will be over 100 performances at 20 indoor locations downtown–including live music, puppet shows, magicians, and the grand illumination on the Courthouse Green at midnight.

- Mt. Crawford – Dec 31 – New Year’s Ali d’Oro Gala (The Gold Dance) – Join in the fun. Celebrate the season with wine, food and dance in our beautifully-decorated Key Room. This black-tie event is the perfect beginning to your Christmas week. $100 per person.

- Natural Bridge – Dec 31 – New Year’s Gala at Natural Bridge – Celebrate the arrival of a new decade at the Natural Bridge New Year’s Gala. The evening starts with our famous Prime Rib Buffet. Then it kicks into high gear with dancing to music provided by The House Band of Virginia. When the clock strikes twelve, join in on the champagne toast.

- Orange – Dec 31 – Music on Main Street – Celebrate the New Year during the 4th Annual New Year’s Celebration in Downtown Orange. There will be events for the whole family including food, fireworks, games, and much more.

- Roanoke – Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve Blast – Featuring Enuff and Center Hill playing all of your favorite hits at the Roanoke Civic Center. Ring in the new year than with the annual dropping of the Roanoke Star. 8 pm to 1:30 am – Sponsored by WSLS 10.

Also in Roanoke, enjoy the “The New Year’s Eve Bouncy Ball Drop” – Kids of all ages will gather in the atrium of Center in the Square just before noon for the countdown to the second annual New Year’s Eve Bouncy Ball Drop. At noon, everyone will drop their bouncy balls from various levels to the atrium’s first floor.

- Staunton – Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve Gala – Enjoy a romantic evening and ring in the New Year with style at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel.

-  Strasburg - Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve at The Strasburg Theater – Come Celebrate New Years Eve with local southern rock legends Nightrider Band. Live music, party goodies and champagne at midnight included. Special overnight hotel package available at the Fairfield Inn in Strasburg.

- Vinton – Dec 31 – Enchanted Eve: A New Year’s Eve Alcohol-Free Celebration – “Enchanted Eve” is Roanoke County’s alcohol-free, New Year’s Eve celebration, which provides a range of alternative possibilities to traditional New Year’s Eve revelry. The many community-based “inside” events will reflect activities and entertainment for all ages.

- Warm Springs – Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve Music Holiday – Celebrate the New Year at Garth Newel with the Chamber Players, Beethoven, and delicious food. Our jazz trio plays music for dancing until the Champagne toast at midnight. Then, start your year right with a concert and brunch on New Year’s Day.

- Warrenton – Dec 31 – First Night Warrenton – Ring in the New Year at First Night in Old Town Warrenton. Come see over 50 performances including live music, puppet shows, magicians, and the Grand Illumination at the Old Courthouse.

- Winchester – Dec 31 – First Night Winchester – Ring in the New Year at First Night Winchester in historic Old Town! The fun begins with more than 50 performers staging over 35 shows, including rock’n’roll, jazz, country, classical, big band, magicians puppeteers, a world champion trick roper, and much, much more! First Night will go on rain or shine, so get your admission buttons in advance for a discount or at the gate for $12. 6:00 PM – 12:30 AM. Children welcome. Phone: (540) 533-5561,  or visit their fantastic website.

Here are two other New Years events to be aware of:

- Prince Williams County – There will be a New Year’s Day Hike.. The Bull Run Mountains Conservancy invites to you to join them for a morning “New Year’s Day” hike in the Bull Run Mountains. All are welcome to join in this free nature hike to explore the winter woods.

- Luray – The Mimslyn Inn is offering a New Years Eve Package on December 31 – One night’s lodging, hors d’oeuvres and wine tasting, a five-course dinner at Circa ‘31, big band and classical jazz entertainment, fireworks, a champagne toast at midnight, and breakfast on Jan. 1. The cost is $475/per couple.

Basye, VA – Bryce Resort in the Shenandoah Valley is in beautiful shape following the historic snow fall here. Resort staff are reporting 18 inches of new powdery snow in the last twenty four hours. Whether it’s for Christmas, New Years or in 2010, make plans to grab your family and friends, hop in the car and escape to beautiful Bryce Resort in the Alleghany Mountains of Virginia.

Just a 2-hour drive from Washington, D.C., you can ski, snowboard, tube, dine and shop, and still be home before bedtime, or there are many cabins and vacation homes to rent for a weekend or longer.

Bryce Resort is only 11 miles west of Interstate 81 in Shenandoah County. Take exit 273 off I-81 (Mt. Jackson) and within minutes you can be in a winter wonderland. The restaurant menu has been updated, the Ski Boutique is stocked with new equipment and clothing, and ski instructors are ready to help get you carving down the slopes.

This mountain hideaway began as a summer retreat called Bryce’s Mountain Resort way back in 1909. By the late 1960’s,  it was transformed into a winter getaway as well, when its ski slopes opened to the public. Ever since, couples and families from the Washington, DC, area have been discovering this hidden gem. In 2008, Bryce Resort was voted the most family-friendly resort in the Mid Atlantic/Southeast region of the U.S.

Ski Details

Every skier/rider must have a valid ticket to use the slopes. Children ages five and below are free with a ticketed adult. Seniors over 70 years receive free slope access on non-holidays.  Active Military and their dependents must have Military ID.

The Bryce Resort  Ski school operates under the direction of Horst Locher, a certified member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America, and a Certified Ski Coach of the United States Ski Coaches Association. For more information, email skischool@bryceresort.com, or call the Ski School at 800-821-1444 or 540-856-2121 ext. 229.

Early season lift rates will be in effect through Thursday, December 24. Regular ski hours and rates go into effect Friday, December 25. Night skiing begins Saturday, December 26, and is available the rest of the Christmas holiday period, except for New Year’s Eve and Sunday, January 3.

Here are the ski lift rates for this year.

Bryce also offers snowboarding and mountain tubing. .In fact, Bryce is one of the few ski resorts in the Mid-Atlantic Region which has true beginner terrain. Combine the beginner area with their nationally-accredited Horst Locher Ski School, and you have the perfect place to learn to ski or snowboard. Or, teach your kids!

If you are visiting for a day, you can sign up for one of Bryce’s First Time Ski/Snowboard Packages. If you are vacationing at Bryce for a more extended period, let one of their Ski School representatives tailor a multi-day Ski or Snowboard Instruction Program to fit your specific needs. Bryce’s highly-qualified instructors will have you skiing or riding proficiently in only a few days. The Resort also offers group and private instruction for people of all ages and skill levels  -  including children, adults, first-timers, or seasoned skiers/riders looking to fine tune their technique.

And for those of you who like to watch, did you know that Bryce Resort hosts USSA Ski Racing events? The Bryce Resort Ski Team is a United States Ski Association (USSA) member club whose objectives are to focus on fun and to build strong fundamental skills for junior and adult racers. In addition, ski team members compete in USSA-sanctioned ski races within the Southern Alpine Ski Association (SARA), which encompasses Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina. Ski Team participants must become members of both the USSA and SARA organizations in order to participate in USSA races

Here is the USSA Racing schedule at Bryce for the rest of the season:

- Bryce Holiday Giant Slalom USSA - December 28 - 12:30 pm
- Bryce Holiday Slalom USSA - December 29 – 9:00 am
- Shenandoah Slalom USSA -  January 9 -  9:00 am
- Collegiate USSA Giant Slalom - January 23 - 12:00 pm
- Collegiate USSA Slalom -  January 24 – 9:00 am
- Collegiate USSA Giant Slalom - January 30 - 12:00 pm
- Collegiate USSA Slalom - January 31 – 9:00 am
- Bryce Resort Open GS Championship - February 14 - 12:30 pm
- Locher Dual SL Challenge - March 7 -  12:30 pm

Bryce Resort Airport

Bryce is proud to be one of the few destination resorts in the Mid-Atlantic with its own airport. Pilots and their families enjoy flying in for a round of golf, a day on the slopes, or a zip line tour. It is an easy 200-yard walk from the tie down area to all of these activities. If you have access to an airplane, you can fly to Bryce for lunch from another state and still be home for dinner. Once you experience the beauty of our Allegheny getaway, you will want to plan another trip soon.

Dining Options at Bryce Resort

In addition to a number of private restaurants in Basye, Bryce Resort offers two main dining options, one more formal, and one informal.

The Restaurant at Bryce Resort offers fine dining. The dining room is open  Friday and Saturday from  5 pm to 9 pm, and for Sunday Brunch (9:00 am – 1:00 pm). Reservations are required for holiday events, and are strongly recommended at all other times. Please call 856-2121, ext. 244 or email restaurant@bryceresort.com

Here are the Holiday Hours and Events for the Restaurant at Bryce:

- December 24 – 5 – 9 pm - Enjoy evening specials,  in addition to their regular dinner menu.
- December 25 – Noon – 9 pm - Regular dinner menu , plus daily specials.
- December 31 -  6 – 9 pm -  Prime Rib Buffet. $39 per person, including tax and tip.
- January 1 – 5- 9 pm -  Regular dinner menu

The Copper Kettle Bar and Lounge is Bryce Resort’s  informal dining option. Food is served on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 am to 9 pm, and on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from  11 am to 10 pm The Copper Kettle also offers great entertainment. Music begins at 9:00pm.

Here is the entertainment line-up at the Copper Kettle at Bryce Resort for the next few weeks:

- Fri – Dec. 25 -  DJ Doug - No Cover

- Sat – Dec. 26 -  Keith Bryant and Iron Horse-  $8 Cover. Featured in Country Weekly Magazine, Keith Bryant and Iron Horse will serenade you with their smooth country rock.

- Sun – Dec. 27 – Jerry Wimmer - $3 Cover -  Jerry Wimmer, lead vocal for The Worx, plays solo guitar and entertains the audience with his antics.

- New Year’s Eve – Thurs – Dec. 31 -   Mirage heads up the New Year’s Eve Festivities in the Copper Kettle. Dance your way into the New Year! $55  Cover charge includes appetizer buffet and champagne toast! Reservations required. Call 540.856.2121, ext. 244; or email: restaurant@bryceresort.com .

- Fri – Jan. 1 -  Sissy Raye - No Cover - Karoake

- Sat – Jan. 2 -  Shag - $7 Cover -  Shag plays”feel good vibes that drive you to the dance floor.” British vocalist Laurence Mckenna fronts the band.

- Sun – Jan. 3 -  Jerry Wimmer - $3 Cover

Use this link to check out the many places to stay in the Bryce Resort area.

Did you know? Bryce Resort honors those individuals who serve their country and community, as well as our dedicated students. Each winter season, certain dates are set aside for men and women serving in the Military, those who serve as First Responders, and Shenandoah County students who make the Honor Roll to receive free mid-week ski passes.

Military Days
In recognition of their dedication and service to our country, Bryce Resort honors the Military men and women whose commitment is strong, whose sacrifices are many, and whose perseverance is immeasurable. In addition to their normal weekday discounts for active military members and their families, once a month, the Resort  offers free lift tickets to active duty service men and women, as well as additional discounts to their dependents.

Here are the 2009/2010 Season Military Days scheduled at Bryce Resort:

- Wednesday January 13, 2010
- Wednesday February 10, 2010
- Wednesday March 10, 2010

Bryce Resort – By the Numbers

- Base Elevation - 1,250 feet
- Summit Elevation - 1,750 feet
- Chair Lifts: 2
- Carpet Lifts: 3
- Slopes: 8
- Longest Run: 3,500 feet
- Snow Tubing Park - 800 foot lanes

Trail Classifications:
- Beginner: 34%
- Intermediate: 33%
- Advanced: 33%

Rentals:
- Ski/Boot/Pole Sets: 700
- Snowboard/Boot Sets: 125

Staunton, VA – Plan to celebrate President Wilson’s Birthday at the Annual Open House on Monday, December 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Annual Open House
President Wilson’s Birthplace, decorated for the holidays in Victorian-era style, and the Woodrow Wilson Museum will be open for visitors at no charge, and there will be refreshments and activities for children. This year, guests can see illustrations of plans for a new World War I exhibit being constructed in the Museum. In addition, all non-sale items except books in the President’s Shop will be offered at a 10% discount.

There will be activities for the entire family day, including making Victorian Christmas crackers. Storyteller Susan Clark will enchant children with stories of Christmas past at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. In addition to exploring the Museum and the Manse with costumed interpreters, guests will enjoy birthday cake donated by Country Confections and other refreshments, including coffee donated by City Brew Coffee. Local musicians Jim Harrington and Buddy Thomas will play acoustic music in the Manse from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Members of the Pierce-Arrow Committee will be on hand to provide information about President Wilson’s 1919 limousine.

Opened to the public in November 1990, the Woodrow Wilson Museum is housed in an adaptively-renovated chateau style mansion adjacent to Woodrow Wilson’s Birthplace. The Museum galleries guide you through Wilson’s public life, from his Princeton study to his historic Great War peace efforts, and encompassing his service from 1913 to 1921 as the 28th President of the United States. The Manse house museum comes to life through period furnishings, the Wilsons’ household belongings, and guided interpretation. A charming 1933 boxwood garden, a restoration project of the Garden Club of Virginia, complements the National Historic Landmark.

Your visit to the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library is in two parts. The museum building is self guided where guests may explore President Wilson’s life through seven galleries. The museum also features the President’s original 1919 Pierce-Arrow limousine.

Tours
The second part of your visit includes a guided tour of Wilson’s birthplace, the Presbyterian Manse, the home provided by the church for the Reverend Joseph Ruggles Wilson and his family. Interpreters will take you back to 1856 when Wilson was born and discuss his family and upbringing and the lifestyle of that period. Tours are approximately 30 to 40 minutes in length and leave from the museum every 45 minutes.

You may also visit the beautiful garden behind the Manse, designed by Charles Gillette and installed in the early 1930s by The Garden Club of Virginia.

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library is located at 18-24 North Coalter Street in Staunton.

For more information, call us at (540) 885-0897, ext. 100, or visit their web site.

Strasburg, Va – Southern rock legends, Nightrider, will be headlining the New Years Eve bash at the Strasburg Theater this year. The party starts on December 31, 2009 at 9:30 p.m. and last until 1 a.m. If you’ve never been to the Theater at 151 West King Street in downtown historic Strasburg, you’re in for a treat. The Strasburg Theater is an old-time Shenandoah Valley Main Street theater that’s been renovated into a fantastic venue for concerts and special events. It’s an inviting, friendly, and exciting atmosphere – perfect for a night on the town.

Plan to make it a weekend of celebration. The Ultimate New Years Package includes 2 tickets to the Nightrider performance, a full buffet dinner, party favors, a midnight champagne toast, a hotel room at the nearby Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott hotel, and transportation to and from the hotel to the theater. The price for the package is $140 per couple. Book online at this website.

Without the hotel room, prices are as follows:
- Nightrider performance, full buffet, party favors and champagne toast – $50 per couple; $30 single.
- Admission to Nightrider performance only (no buffet) – $10 in advance; $15 at the door.

For more information about the New Years Eve event and package, call the Strasburg Theater at (540) 465-1777.

For more information about the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Strasburg, log onto their web site.

Woodstock – There’s a  happening place in Woodstock, VA. It’s the Woodstock Cafe and Shoppes. Located at 117 South Main Street (near the historic Courthouse) this place consistently offers quality in all they do. Here you’ll find great food, coffee, wine, and conversation, some great events, and some unique Valley holiday gifts. And, the Woodstock Cafe  staff will always go the extra mile for you.

Here’s an overview of upcoming events, including an Elvis Bash!  Contact them soon so you’ll be assured a spot.

December 31 – New Year’s Eve Celebration

Special New Year’s Eve celebration at the nearby Fort Valley Nursery.  Bring in the New Year with music, fun, and dancing amidst the beautiful ambiance of the nursery. Entertainment will feature the Bill Vaughn Quintet, starting at 9:30 PM until 1:00 AM.  Light snacks and beverage service (wine, beer, and soft drinks – cash bar) will be available in addition to the live entertainment.  Bill Vaughn and his group perform frequently in the DC and Northern Virginia area, and this summer performed two times on Sundays at the Café.  They are a spectacular group of professional musicians who play a wide variety of music from “oldies” to modern pop.  Tickets are $40 (including tax), and can be purchased by calling the Café at 540-459-8888 .

January 8/9 – Elvis Birthday Bash

Always one of the year’s most fun entertainment events at the Café, and the perfect way to start out the new year, join Johnny and the Vaultcats for an evening of great food, dancing, and the music of the King. Saturday evening is already sold out, but they still have about 20 tickets for Friday evening.  Tickets are $45 per person, including dinner and entertainment. As always, the very best beverage service (wine, beer, and soft drinks) is available on a cash basis.

Additional Winter Events
January 16, 22, and 23 – Italian Wine Tasting Dinners

This year, Woodstock Cafe will offer three evenings (including two Saturday evenings) of Italian Wine Tasting, in order to try to accommodate the overwhelming demand for this annual event. As of this newsletter, tickets still remain for all three dates, but they will sell quickly.  Call early if you’d like to attend. For this dinner, Paje and Seth match each of the eight wines featured with a separate course of food specifically selected to match the wine. The eight course presentation has become somewhat “legendary” in our little town, but for the past two years Neil Manger of Siema Wines has provided wines for the event that have proven equally legendary.
Tickets are $47.50 (plus tax), and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are not refundable, and the value of tickets that aren’t used cannot be applied to future events or “store credits”.

February 13/14 – Valentine’s Entertainment Dinners

Another event that has become a “tradition” over the past three years is the Valentine’s Entertainment Dinner featuring a four course, gourmet meal and the ultimate in romantic entertainment provided by a quartet lead by two of the Valley’s best female vocalists, Amanda Wilkins and Rhonda Sager.  The intimate and candlelit ambiance completes the perfect setting for a special Valentine occasion. Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, we offer this event on Saturday and Sunday evenings, versus Friday and Saturday evenings. Much of the competition for the limited number of tickets available will come from the folks who have attended it before, so book early to avoid being left out. Tickets are $47.50 (plus tax), and must be purchased in advance.

February 26/27 – Australian Wine Dinners

Next to the Italian Wine Dinners, no other of the Café wine events are more popular than our annual Australian Wine Dinners. Ellen Hewit, of the Country Vintner Distributors will be the guest hostess for the fourth consecutive year for the dinners. Ellen has a unique reputation among our Café regulars for delivering extraordinary wines to the Café at value prices throughout the year. She takes great pride in the Australian Wine Dinners, and expends extraordinary research and effort to bring some of Australia’s most interesting wines to these dinners.

Paje and Seth match the wines selected with a multi-course, gourmet, dinner that changes every year. Menus are posted on their website closer to the event (and after we have selected the wines to be featured). Unfortunately, by the time the menus are selected and posted, tickets will most likely not be available. Veterans of this dinner event know to purchase tickets well in advance. Tickets are $47.50 (plus tax) and must be purchased in advance.

Unique Holiday Gift Ideas at the Cafe

Baskets, Gift Boxes, and Gift Cards from the Café
For the past two years, customized gift baskets from the Café have been one of the area’s most popular holiday items.  Choose from a bakery theme, a coffee & teas theme, a local items theme, or a wine theme.  Pick a pre-designed basket, or let us help you design one that is totally unique.  You tell them what you want to spend, and they’ll deliver a beautiful basket that your recipient will love! Make your Christmas shopping for employees, service people, your favorite merchants, your best customers or family/friends easy this year.  Give them the list, and they’ll create something individual and special - for them, from you.

Also this year, the Cafe is offering a new line of  “packaged gifts” featuring select wines and boutique beers. For wine lovers, we offer a festively adorned six pack of wines in the Woodstock Café’s own burgundy wine carrier.  Choose from a variety of themes  (best values, highest scores, big red, around the world, best of France, etc) or have Coe help you. 

As of this week, they also have two special cases of wine available that include 12 bottles of wine, all featured in the recently published Wine Spectator Top 100 list. For beer lovers, the café has recently added a whole new retail section for specialty beers.  For the holidays, we offer unique “sampler” cases of very special beers.  The perfect gift for beer aficionados!

And at last! The Cafe now carries the ultimate stocking stuffer for the folks whom you just can’t ever seem to find the right gift – gift cards (like a credit card) in any denomination.  The cards can be used for anything in the Café, including wine tasting dinners, retail, food, wine or beer.  This is a great gift for someone who you know already uses the Café frequently – or for someone who you think should be!

Ten Thousand Villages
Thanks to our partner, Carolyn Garman, the Café now offers one of the most unique shopping opportunities available in our world.  Ten Thousand Villages partners with thousands of talented artisans around the world and in the U. S. to develop the skills and tools they need to improve their lives. Jewelry, baskets, nativities, scarves, pottery, toys and home accessories now arrive weekly to the Café, through Ten Thousand Villages, and are very reasonably priced.  Treat someone you love to a gift that they will remember – and do something good for the world at the same time!

And from the Cafe’s partner, CrossRoads Catering -
CrossRoads is now taking orders for all your holiday events.  Together, they  offer a large variety of options for pickup, delivery or full service catering.  Have a company cocktail party at the Woodstock Cafe and Shoppes.  Offer your friends a wonderful evening at your home, where CrossRoads does the work for you.  They”ll do the planning, you have the fun!  CrossRoads has a menu for every budget and every party size!  Book now.

To ask a question or make a reservation, call the Woodstock Cafe at (540) 540-459-8549, or visit their website .

From wherever your hail, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in beautiful Strasburg awaits you. Nestled between the Massanutten and North Mountains, the hotel has everything you’ll need – both inside and out.

Earlier this week, the service-oriented Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott staff had fun decking the halls, and getting ready for your visit. Open for about a year now, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is located at the Northern end of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. You can see it from I-81 coming south from Pennsylvania and West Virginia, it’s just one exit off I-66 heading out from DC/Northern Virginia, and it’s right on Route 11 (also called the historic Valley Pike). You can take your pick of where to go; everyting’s so close by.

Inside the hotel, everything’s bright and clean. Men and women alike comment on the soothing pallette of colors throughout – cream, black, orange, and various hues of greens. Downstairs, guests can enjoy the 24-hour work-out room and an indoor pool, complete with jacuzzi and thirsty green towels nearby.

Rooms at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott come with a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast including items such as breads, yogurts, sausage sandwiches, and often other items, such as hard-boiled eggs and make your own waffles. It’s a friendly atmosphere as folks of all ages mingle together at breakfast – some watching the big-screen TV over the fireplace room divider, and some talking with their families about their day’s activities.

Later in the day, when the breakfast area closes, guests can use the downstairs area for computer work. And, if you need to take care of a little correspondence while out here, the hotel has both hard-wire and wireless Internet, and a business center with a printer and two computers.

When they consider the Shenandoah Valley, many people first think of Skyline Drive. And, yes, the Drive is close to the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott– only a short trek from Front Royal. So too, there are many Valley traditions right along the historic, quaint Route 11. Begin at Strasburg, and head either North or South.

Civil War battlegrounds, including Cedar Creek to the North and New Market to the South, are close at hand. Unique antique, art, and gift stores have many Valley-inspired items for holiday giving – items that you won’t find at the malls and the local dining options, too are exceptional. There are some great choices nearby – Castiglia’s,  Golden China, and Denny’s Restaurant just next door, as well as Cristina’s in Strasburg and Joe’s Steak House in Woodstock.  If you’re looking to catch a great band with good food and spirits, stop by the Strasburg Theater.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott staff has information about the many local attractions; they love to make suggestions based on your personal needs and interests.

Many people don’t realize that the Valley is only 60 to 70 miles from DC – Northern Virginia  – far enough out to really get away and be in the country, yet close enough so that one is not driving all day.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott has 83 rooms, including eight suites with breathtaking views of the mountains. Rates starting as low as $84 for a standard room. To get a 10% discount for the holidays, call (800) 228-2100 and mention that you saw this offer on 7Bends.com.

Or to receive the 10% holiday discount rate, use code HOL and book online.

In this season of hope and in these economic times, more than ever, people want their gifts to really matter. Research on donor views in a down economy shows that about half the public say they would be more likely to give a charitable gift than a holiday present. And more than four out of five people would prefer to receive a meaningful gift that would help someone else instead of a traditional holiday gift.

Our new gift catalog enables people to make a donation that could provide food, shelter and comfort to disaster victims, vaccinate a child in a remote village or connect the family of a military service member with their loved one overseas.

These gifts will provide comfort and hope to people who need them, when they need them most—all in the name of your friend or loved one.

After you’ve purchased an item, you can select an e-card that you can send to your loved one. You’ll also receive a complimentary print card by mail, which you can personalize with a message about the gift you have given in their honor.

The gift catalog is available in the Red Cross  office at 103 S. Main Street in Woodstock, Va, and is now posted on the Chapter’s website. Their local phone is (540)459-2913.

History has proven that when Americans are in need, America responds. We are confident that this holiday giving season will be no different.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join their blog at: http://blog.redcross.org.

According to Crocker, “Wayside Theatre’s continues the great tradition of opening the Season in June with a musical and continues to bring year round theatre to the Shenandoah Valley. Wayside Theatre will offer six plays this season.

The new 2010-2011 Season runs from June 5, 2010 through April 23, 2011.  The Season opens with the winner of two Tony Awards, Shenandoah; continues with the wacky comedy, Dead Man’s Cell Phone; followed by magical musical retelling of the Little Match Girl, Striking 12, and the Fall mystery, Mark Twain’s A Murder, A Mystery and A Marriage.

After the New Year, Wayside Theatre presents Southern Cross: The New Orleans Adventure, a prequel musical to the smash hit about the Green Family Singers which will open January 29th and running through February into mid March 2010.

The Theater will close out the season with the musical comedy, Groucho – with performances late March through April 23, 2010.

The 2010 Holiday production will be The Perfect Christmas Tree, which is not part of the regular subscription season. The 2010-2011 Season Subscriptions are on sale now and can be purchased at the box office or by calling (540) 869-1776.

Wayside Theatre is the oldest professional theatre in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and will celebrate its 49th season of presenting high quality, professional entertainment in 2010-2011 Season.  Patrons can obtain single tickets, subscription packages, and group packages by calling the Box Office at (540) 869-1776.

Wayside Theatre is located in Middletown, Virginia on Route 11, Main Street, just north of the intersection of I-66 and I-81.

Additional information can be obtained on the theatre’s website.

(Photo credit: David Maga, James Fleming (Kris Kringle), Thomasin Savaiano and Logan Trask now appearing at Wayside Theatre in “Miracle on 34th Street” in Middletown, VA, Through December 27, 2009. Call (540) 869-1776 for reservations.
Photography by Westervelt.)

And, this just in –

Wayside Theater wins Shining Star award

Wayside Theatre has received the Shining Star Honorable Mention in Virginians for the Arts Awards Showcase Contributions of Arts Organizations to Building Communities.
The Virginians for the Arts announced winners of its Arts Build Communities Awards. The awards recognize arts organizations that best demonstrate the ability to enhance the community, lift our spirits, and build a better quality of life.  Says Virginians for the Arts President Peter Fields, “The awards showcase the ways the arts contribute to the overall quality of life in Virginia communities.”

Wayside Theatre, Middletown received the Shining Star Honorable Mention.  “We were honored and excited to have been nominated as an arts organization that has the ability to enhance our community, lift the spirits and better the quality of life in our region.” stated Warner Crocker, Wayside Theatre’s Artist Director.   “The Arts are a vital part of our community’s fabric and important to the economic structure of our community.”

Awards will be presented at the ArtWorks for Virginia Conference 2010 Luncheon on January 27, 2010, in Richmond, Virginia.

Spoke to a bubbly Hispanic woman recently. She is so excited because after moving to the U.S. last December, this will be her first Thanksgiving holyday living here. In Spanish, she said, Thanksgiving Day is translated as “Accion de Gracias” – or loosely translated “an action (or attitude) of gratitude.”

I believe that says it all – for every faith and every person.

With shared prayers, we wish you a blessed Thanksgiving – all you ever wanted that matters in life – love, family, friends, pets, faith, and ___________ (you fill it in.)

“With God all things are possible.

Remember the theme for 2010 – “New Year, New Hope!”
Keep in the now. Keep laughing.

Believe. Hope. Trust.
Live. Love. Laugh.

“Here’s a link to the Beatle’s rendition of “Here Comes the Sun” on YouTube.

WOODSTOCK, VA – November 24, 2009 – New coats and jackets have been provided to 180 children in the local area by the Rotary Club of Woodstock.  Kids got to choose their own outerwear from the stock at the local Wal-Mart.  The number of coats distributed this year exceeds all previous years.

“This is an indication of how seriously the need has increased during this time of recession,” stated Cindy Soltis, chairperson of the event.

To raise money for the coats, a bowl-a-thon was held in October at Mountain View Lanes in Woodstock.  Owner Frank Miroballi donated lanes so there was no cost whatever for this event.  Each team was challenged to collect $100 per player, or $500 for the team. Chair of the event was Jeff Aimonetti of Aimonetti Insurance in Woodstock.

This is the seventh year that the Coats for Kids project has been sponsored by the Rotary Club of Woodstock.  It was initially introduced when Shenandoah Community Foundation Executive Director Cindy Soltis of Woodstock was president of the club.  She has headed the effort each year since.

Certificates for the coats and jackets were distributed through Shenandoah County Social Services, Shenandoah Alliance for Shelter, and Response, Inc..

Soltis reported that this year, more than $6,000 was raised for the project.  This was supplemented by a $1,000 grant from Wal-Mart.  More than twenty Rotarians manned registers at Wal-Mart where certificates were exchanged for coats.

The Rotary Club of Woodstock will also participate in the Woodstock Christmas Parade in early December.  With their children and grandchildren, Rotarians will ride into town with Santa Claus on an antique fire engine, distributing candy and treats along the way.

Rotary sponsors and contributes to community-based projects year-round to support its mission, “Service Above Self.”  Club President this year is Michael Monahan, an Internet professor and resident of Basye.

For information on membership in the Rotary Club of Woodstock, visit the club website.

Woodstock, Strasburg, and New Market, VA – It’s that time again. I love it! Get ready to be imbued with the spirit of Christmas, compliments of the Masterworks Chorus of the Shenandoah Valley. They’ll be sharing their awe-inspiring voices and their joy with you at their Annual Holiday Performances on December 4, 5 and 6. Get your tickets now before they are sold out. I can’t wait!

Take your family, or meet a group of friends for a great pre-Christmas get together.

Led by Artistic Director, Dr. Betty Karol Wilson, the mission of the Masterworks Chorus is “to promote choral music and other artistic endeavors in the Shenandoah Valley region through performance, education, community involvement, and cooperation with other area musicians and artists, as well as other musical and artistic organizations.”

This year, the musical event is entitled: “Christmas Music in the Mountains.”

The four 2009 holiday performances are as follows:

- Friday, December 4 – 7:30 p.m. – at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 193 W. Washington St., Strasburg, VA

- Saturday, December 5 – 4:00 p.m. – at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 127 E. High St., Woodstock, VA

- Saturday, December 5 – 7:30 p.m. – at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 235 S. Main St., Woodstock, VA

– Sunday, December 6 – 3:00 p.m. – at Reformation Lutheran Church, 9283 N. Congress St., New Market, VA

Sneak Peek
Here is a sneak peek at the classic Christmas carols, country favorites, and Christian music you’ll hear and enjoy:

Salvation is Created – Pavel Chesnokov

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Mendelssohn, arr. Mack Wilberg

O Nata Lux – one setting by Thomas Tallis, one setting by Tom Porter

O Magnum Mysterium – one setting by Tomas Luis Victoria, one setting by Cesar Carillo

In Dulci Jubilo – Michael Praetorius, for double choir

Selections for Handel’s Messiah – Nos. 4-12

Angels We Have heard on High – arr. McCullough

Three Catalonian Carols- arr. Joan Varner

Appalachian Carols and Shape Note Hymns

Shiloh – William Billings

The Cherry Tree Carol – Gwyneth Walker

I Wonder as I Wander – Solo by Jim Baseler

Jesus Jesus Rest you Head – arr. Ellingboe

Three Latvian Carols – Andrejs Jansons

Lo! How a Rose E’re Blooming – arr. Jay Rouse

Joy to the World – (Attributed to Handel) arr. Anthony Baldwin

Getting Your Tickets
Tickets are $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for youth ages 12-18. Children under 12 are free.

To purchase tickets for one or more of these holiday performances, contact any chorus member, call (540) 459-4279, or pay online at the Masterworks Chorus of the Shenandoah Valley’s web site.

“I’ll be Home for Christmas” Tea

Hold your horses! On Saturday, December 19, The Chorus will also be hosting a “I’ll be Home for Christmas” Tea, reminiscent of a 1940s Christmas Family Reunion (just imagine The Waltons on TV.) The tea will be at 1 p.m. at Good Life Station – located at 9595 S. Congress Street in New Market, VA (across the street from the famous Southern Kitchen restaurant, a Valley landmark and destination.) This event will be catered by Cross Roads Catering. Details are on the web site (above).

Of you’re a social networker, check out the Masterworks Chorus Facebook page for the inside scoop.

Shenandoah Valley, VA – As folks order “Thomas” the turkey, and get ready to enter into the thankful holiday season, here are some Thanksgiving and Christmas events in and near the Shenandoah Valley that you and your family can enjoy.

Over the next several weeks, 7Bends will be bringing you more information about great holiday excursions and events in the Valley. Stay tuned!

There are a host of Holiday Open Houses scheduled, many at beautiful historic homes:

Preservation of Historic Winchester Holiday House Tours
at the Octagon House
530 Amherst Street
Winchester, VA 22601

December 5 and 6 – Preservation of Historic Winchester’s Annual Holiday House Tour features five splendid homes decorated for Christmas. Featured homes to be announced closer to event date. Saturday night kicks off the event with candlelight tours and a preview party from 6 to 9 p.m. Daylight Tour will be from noon to 5 p.m on  Sunday. The review party costs $35 to attend.

For more information, call Preservation of Historic Winchester at (540) 667-3577, or visit their web site.

Christmas Tours at Belle Grove Plantation – in Middletown, VA

December 4-5, 11-12, and 18-19 – Enjoy a magical Shenandoah Valley Christmas complete with traditional decorations by regional garden clubs. Visitors will find a festive exhibit in Belle Grove’s authentically decorated period rooms, evening fireside refreshments and live holiday music. Children won’t want to miss Christmas storytelling and a visit with Santa on Sundays. Candlelight and daytime hours available. Call for time

And don’t miss Glenna Loving, author of  the book, “Shenandoah Daughter of the Stars,” and her new books “White Wolf of the Wolf Clan” and “Shenandoah of the Blue Clan.” She’ll be at Belle Grove for a book signing during Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Tours will be Friday and Saturday, November 27 & 28, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (We’ll also be showcasing Glenna’s new books in our Winter issue of 7Bends of the Shenandoah Valley Magazine, giving you a peek at what tweens think of her take on native Americans in the Valley.)

Visit the Bell Grove web site for more information

Holiday House and Country Christmas - at Mount Bleak House

If you don’t want to drive that far, consider venturing to Delaplane for their Holiday House and Country Christmas. Here are the details:

November 27-29 – Escape the holiday hustle and bustle and enjoy an old-fashioned country Christmas in the park. Tour Mount Bleak House, decorated to reflect local celebrations from the 18th through the 20th centuries. Join entertainers playing traditional carols. Buy unique gifts reflecting Northern Virginia’s agricultural heritage. For more information, call (540) 592-3556 or log onto their web site.

Each winery on the Trail will offer tours and wine tastings and will have a unique holiday ornament to trim your grapevine wreath. Wreaths may be purchased for $10.00 at any of the following wineries: Barren Ridge Vineyards in Fishersville, Cave Ridge Vineyard in Mt. Jackson, Cross Keys Vineyards and Winery in Mt. Crawford, North Mountain Vineyard and Winery in Maurertown, Rockbridge Vineyard in Raphine, Shenandoah Vineyards in Edinburg, Veramar Vineyard in Berryville, and Wisteria Farm and Vineyard in Stanley.  Present the wreath at any other winery and receive a free ornament.

Prepare for your very own holiday decorating pleasure by collecting beautiful and unusual Christmas ornaments along the Trail. A warm welcome and a different design await you at each winery. While you are sampling wines and discovering the nuances of different varieties, winery personnel will be happy to offer ideas for pairing food with their wines for holiday entertaining. Gift shops in each winery are wonderful sources for holiday gift needs.
The Shenandoah Valley Wine Growers Association is a nonprofit regional trade association with an active membership of Shenandoah Valley Approved Viticultural Area (AVA) wineries, businesses and folks interested in wine. The Association’s vision includes leading in the promotion and protection of Shenandoah Valley AVA as one of the finest winegrowing regions in the world and working to enhance the future of Shenandoah Valley through the preservation and enhancement of its resources: its land, wines and people.

For more information, call (540) 436-9463, or visit the organization’s website.

Strasburg, VA – Just starting to dream about those holiday parties and the wonderful dress you’ll wear? Imagining your hair up in that perfect do? Well, look no further.

Open for about six months, N2Hair is located in Creekside Station in North Strasburg – close to the intersection of I-81 and Route 66. The address is: 33820 Old Valley Pike (near the Fairfield Inn and Suites).

Hope Kirtley is the owner of N2Hair Salon. She specializes in really listening to clients, and making recommendations based on her years of experience.  Laid back, yet professional, Hope and the other stylists have fun as they work with each client individually to get the “look” they are reaching for.

Men also rate at N2Hair. One of the salon’s recent male customers commented: “The main thing for me was going into the place, I was very comfortable. It was easygoing. I get nervous about my hair getting cut. I was put completely at ease and am completely happy with the cut I got.  Hope didn’t have a set idea for me. She wanted to know what I wanted.”

N2Hair is a family-owned and operated business. Their motto is: “Come join us and let your new style blossom at our family salon.”

Call (540) 465-2277 for an appointment.

Hours:  Open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays.