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.

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

Print Options for Small Business Owners: Less Effective and Reliable

Five years ago, even two years ago, a small business owner would be looking at print media to get out their message. The newspaper and the magazine were king.  Advertisers could still count on the people reading those media, and generally count on the people trusting the validity of what they read there. Neither of these assumptions tend to hold true anymore. Subscriptions are down, many people (especially the younger set) are using web news sources almost exclusively now, and with the major news organizations being owned by corporations (who make their money through political connections), the “news” one gets may be what the corporations and politicians wish for the people to hear.

The public – and business owners – are getting wise to these realities, and are looking for ways to operate – and market – on their own.

Online Small Business Advertising Options: A lot of  Sales Hype and Confusion

At the same time, the move to the Internet for small business has been exploding, as we all know. Nearly every viable business of any size now has a web site of some sort. Some were built on the cheap by the business owner’s brother-in-law, for example. Others were professionally created by web developers (yet many of these developers were and are unaware of how a web site needs to be built in order for the business owner to be able to market it effectively on their own – over the long-term.)  As a result, many web sites are just gathering  “cyberdust,”  just sitting there, with little or no new content (words, information) added.

The Web Can Be Your Best Sales Rep

Have a plan. Adding strategic information and words to your web site in an organized manner for specific marketing objectives is how the Internet works best as a marketing agent.

In the 1990s, a business web site could go up and it would be generally found – without much promotion – because  companies like Google were building up their databases and needed all of the web sites catalogued (based on keywords)  to sell what they were creating. That’s not the case anymore. Today, there are billions of web sites on the net, and more being launched everyday. So, it’s up to you to give the search engines (actually the little computer “bots” that come and scan your site)  the words that you want your organization or business to be found under.

In 2010, the competition is as fierce as ever. Pure and simple – If a business owner does not market his/her site, there really isn’t much value in even having a web site. Not marketing your web site is like creating a brochure in the old days, and leaving it in the box.

So too, there is so much hype in business and web circles about SEO (search engine marketing) and what it all means, and how it works. Confusion and information overload are often the result.

Some Basic Marketing and PR Strategies that Work on the Web

1. If you have an old web site you want to replaced – or you need a new site – There is CMS (Content Management Systems) software out there, such as WordPress, that can be modified and used as your web site – that already has the capabilities built in to add photos and content very easily – and “serve it up” to the major search engines – and to social networking venues, like Twitter.

You can either go online and  download one of the hundreds of CMS options out there, and build it yourself, if you have the interest and skill – or you can have a system integrator (online marketing firm) begin with your ideas and needs and then use a CMS to create a web platform fro you – from which you can operate and sell.

2. If you have a  web site, but it’s just static, siting there – The search engines operate based on getting new information that people are putting up on their sites, and then “spitting in back” to other people who put in keywords to be able to find what they need.

You want to strategically control the “content bins” (i.e. the words) that the search engines have connected to your business, and you want to feed them new words regularly to keep your company and web site at the top of the heap (Page One) for the given set of words you want to dominate.

If you have a site, and you want to take advantage of marketing your site in a smart, cost-effective way, consider adding a blog to your site, and then delivering information out in cyberspace regularly – on the topics that matter to you most.

3. The most effective copy on the web will be where the words you choose for your business intersect the most popular search terms used to find your type of business. There are free tools out on the web that help you write copy that is both user friendly, and search-engine friendly.

Odd as it sounds, to maximize your marketing online, you are writing to humans as well as computers. Learn more about optimized copy writing, or hire a professional to write optimized copy for you. It will make all the difference in the amount of web traffic you get, and also the types of people you attract. (Optimized web copy is a great way to target specific types of users to your site.)

4. The Internet is intrinsically two-way. Strategy-wise, you’ll want to place optimized copy ON your web site – so the people you want to target can  find you via the search engines AND you’ll want to place optimized copy ABOUT your  company out on the web (with links to your site) to get additional traffic.

This is where online public relations (PR) enters the picture. Getting  feature articles written about your business – that are created for the web – that are optimized with your most effective keywords – can be a huge traffic generator for you. And, likewise, getting press releases about your business placed out on the web (once again with a link back to your site) is what actually works.

A few well-placed banner ads on web sites that reach the geographic areas you operate in AND on web sites geared to your industry or product/service – can also be effective.

5. Knowing the score – Finally, whatever you do on the web for your business, make sure you can measure it. Site statistics software, like Google Analytics, measures your web traffic down to the nth degree.

When you add a promotion, add an article, add another banner ad… you’ll know right away  if your new action was effective in generating targeted traffic, and to what degree. The technology is there to tweak your web marketing efforts as you go (which is the most nimble way to operate, anyway).

An Integrated, Strategic Approach Works Best (just as it always has)

Quite often, the types of companies who market in this “integrated” way on the web – for example, cs-shen.com – are usually run by former Advertising Agency folks who possess the best of both worlds: solid marketing experience gained before the web AND solid experience with web marketing since, as it as changed and matured over the last 10 years.

Maintaining continuity (using the best practices of the past) while embracing the new ideas and strategies that support the values of your business now – is a winning combination, and results in a powerful web presence and marketing platform.

Look to web platforms that know what they are talking about online – to associate your company, whether they be independent news sites, industry or issue consortiums, or local sales/barter groups.

It’s All About Relationships; Teaming up with Like Businesses to Accomplish Joint Objectives

The web is built for partnerships. That’s its nature. A web link is, in essence, the most basic form of a partnership online.  Build from there, and have fun!

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7Bends.com is committed to providing useful, meaningful, thought-provoking content to our readers, and embracing new partnerships  as they surface.

Shenandoah National Park, USA – Why not celebrate National Trails Day with the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) at Shenandoah
National Park on Saturday June 5?

The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club invites new hikers and experienced backpackers to learn new trail skills at PATC Trail Patrol’s “Beyond the Trailhead” event at Byrd Visitor Center (milepost 51 – on Skyline Drive).

Come participate in hikes, demonstrations, and presentations throughout the day, while taking advantage of the fee-free weekend at Shenandoah on June 5 and 6 in celebration of the America’s Great Outdoor initiative.

The event is designed to give novice hikers the information they need to leave their cars behind and venture beyond the trailhead to enjoy this area’s numerous hiking and nature trails. Even experienced backpackers can learn new skills at the information tables and discussion groups on “Leave No Trace” outdoor ethics, hiking techniques, and equipment. Hands-on demonstrations of traditional tools, such as crosscut saws, used to maintain wilderness trails will be offered by Shenandoah National Park trail crew.

A variety of hikes guided by experienced Trail Patrol members will be offered for people of all ages and experience levels: hikes suitable for families with children; easy, moderate, and advanced hikes for adults. Hikers will need to meet at the registration table at Byrd Visitor Center 15 minutes before the hike time to sign in. Hikers should wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the season, and bring food and plenty of water.

Hikes leaving Byrd Visitor Center include:

- Easy – Story of the Forest Nature Trail – 1.8 mi. – 10:00 a.m.
- Easy – Appalachian Trail Ramble 2.0 mi. – 10:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
- Moderate – Dark Hollow Falls Hike 1.4 mi. – 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Moderate – Lewis Falls Hike – 2.0 mi. – 10:15 a.m.
- Advanced – Rapidan Camp National Historic – 4.0 mi. – 9:45 a.m.
- Landmark (Camp Hoover) by Mill Prong Trail

Pre-registration is encouraged but you may also register on June 5 at Byrd Visitor Center. To pre-register, send an email to TPNTD ~at~ patc.net by June 3, 2010. Please include your name and which hike you wish to join.

Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail

A presentation about thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Appalachian Trail Reflections, will be offered as part of the National Trails Day event. Maryland backpackers Georgia Harris and Randy Motz will share their 2006 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail by describing what trail life is like, relating what it takes to accomplish a thru-hike, and showing photos of their journey.

The one hour presentation will be given Saturday, June 6 at 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the Byrd Visitor Center auditorium. A book signing of the presenters’ book, “Solemates – Lessons on Life, Love and Marriage” from the Appalachian Trail, will follow each presentation.

PATC and Trail Patrol are charging no fees to attend or participate in any hike, workshop, or demonstration connected with the event. Byrd Visitor Center lies within the park at milepost 51 on Skyline Drive.

For more information about the event, email Trail Patrol at TPNTD ~at`patc.net, or visit the PATC website.

For more information on the park, visit the Shenandoah National Park’s website.

“Beyond the Trailhead” celebrates the annual National Trails Day organized and sponsored by the American Hiking Society. Potomac Appalachian Trail Club is the volunteer trails maintenance group headquartered in Vienna, Virginia that maintains 240 miles of mid-Atlantic Appalachian Trail and 730 miles of other trails in Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland, southern Pennsylvania, and eastern West Virginia.

PATC volunteers build and maintain trailside hiker shelters and rustic rental cabins; and publish detailed trails maps, hiking guidebooks, and books detailing the history of the Appalachian region.

Middletown, Virginia – Wayside Theatre Artistic Director Warner Crocker announced the 2010-2011 Season Opener, cast and performance schedule for the musical, SHENANDOAH. Shenandoah runs June 5 through July 3. The musical is written by Gary Geld, Peter Udell, Phillip Rose and James Lee Barrett. The production is sponsored by Heirloom Emporium.

According to Crocker, “We’re thrilled to open Wayside Theatre’s 49th Season with the Tony winning musical Shenandoah. It is not only a great American story, but it is the story of our home here in the Shenandoah Valley during the American Civil War.”

Charlie Anderson, a Valley farmer and widower doesn’t see why he and his large family of sons and one daughter should get involved in the war that is raging around them. His views change when his youngest son is taken prisoner by Union soldiers. Charlie is pushed to the limit as his family is dragged inexorably into the fray. It’s North versus South, brother against brother. The story is based on the classic Jimmy Stewart film,SHENANDOAH.

The musical is rich in emotion, heart and humor featuring stirring anthems, gentle lullabies and dance. Through joy, sorrow and turmoil, this great musical reminds us that it’s the strength of family that matters most.

In announcing the cast Crocker added, “We are thrilled to have Tom Simpson playing the leading role of Charlie. Tom starred in last season’s opener, Man of La Mancha and his singing stopped the show for applause each and every performance.” This will be Tom’s fifth production with Wayside Theatre. Other Wayside Theatre favorite veteran cast members are: David Maga (Harvey, Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story, Miracle on 34th Street, Southern Crossroads, Smoke on the Mountain Trilogy), Thomasin Savaiano (Southern Crossroads, A Christmas Carol, The Mousetrap, Always…Patsy Cline, Smoke on the Mountain series), Bill Diggle (Southern Crossroads, A Christmas Carol), Richard Follett (Buddy!, The Buddy Holly Story, Miracle on 34th Street, Always…Patsy Cline, Smoke on the Mountain Trilogy), Bob Payne (Miracle on 34th Street, Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story, Cotton Patch Gospel), Steve Przybylski (Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story, Southern Crossroads, Smoke on the Mountain Trilogy, Cotton Patch Gospel, Shadow of the Raven), Ricky Hesson (Man of La Mancha, Miracle on 34th Street, The Comedy of Errors, Romeo and Juliet), Eddie Staver (Harvey), and Brandon Shockey (Miracle on 34th Street, Comedy of Errors, A Christmas Carol). Newcomers to Wayside Theatre are: Brandon Wells, Troy Van Meter, Aaron Mann, Katherine Yacko, and Jim Ritter.

The production is directed by Warner Crocker, Music Direction by Steve Przybylski and Chorography by Heather Reid. The Set Designed by Til Turner, Costume Design by Tamara Carruthers and Lighting Design by Paul Callahan.

Shenandoah will begin performances on Saturday, June 5 and. Opening Night is Sunday, June 6 at 6:30 PM. The remaining schedule of performances is Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm and Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday’s at 2:30 PM.

The Shenandoah Saturday, July 3 performances are at 1:00 PM and 7:30 PM. There is No matinee performance on Wednesday, June 9, 2010. Ticket prices are $30 to $25 dollars for adults. Prices for children 5 to 17 are $10 for any performance. Discounts for students, seniors and groups are available with information available at the box office, (540) 869-1776.

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.

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

Wayside Theatre is located in Middletown, Virginia on Route 11, on Main Street, just north of the intersection of I-66 and I-81.
(Photo shown is from the classic movie, SHENANDOAH.)

Shenandoah Valley, VA – This snow really will not last forever. Just this week, flocks of birds have been spotted in the Valley, and Spring activities will soon be here!

The Shenandoah County Parks & Recreation (SCPR) department is sponsoring these Spring events… Get ready for Spring shopping. Get ready to plant those flowers, bake those cakes, and hunt for those Easter eggs!

ANNUAL ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW – MARCH 6
With Spring just around the corner, mark your calendar for this annual tradition. Get your craft items ready to sell or just plan to attend and shop for those special birthday or anniversary gifts. The show is set for Saturday, March 6, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm at Peter Muhlenberg Middle School, in Woodstock, VA. Admission is free for the public. (If you’re interested in attending as a vendor, please contact SCPR for an application. Tables are available for $20 or $35.)

SIMPLY SWEET DESIGNS CAKE DECORATING CONTEST – MARCH 27
(Ages 6 & Over). “Ocean Life” is the theme for the 2nd Annual Contest to be held on March 27. Here is your chance to show off your cake decorating skills. There are categories for all skill levels. Watch as the Old Edinburg School Gym (in Edinburg, VA)  transforms with delectable and delightful cakes! The deadline to register is March 9. Registration fees are $15 for amateurs, $25 for semi-professionals, and $25 for professionals.

There are fondant and frosting divisions, as well as age breakdowns. Contact SCPR for a complete contest description and registration form. (Call 540- 984-3030 or send an email to: scpr at shenandoahcountyva.us.)

ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT – MARCH 27
(Ages 3-8 yrs.) The Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held at Shenandoah County Park on Saturday, March 27. It;slocated in Maurertown, VA. The 3-5 yr. olds will hunt at 10:30 am and the 6-8 yr. olds will follow at 11:00 am. The Easter Bunny will be on-site to help find eggs and to meet the kids. Please bring a camera and your own Easter basket. The cost is $3/child.

KID’S NIGHT OUT – MAY 7
(Ages 5-12 yrs) Parents: Do you want to enjoy an adult-only evening going to the movies or dinner? Or, do you need a night to catch up on errands, shopping, or home projects? If so, drop off your children on Friday, May 7, from 6:00 – 9:30 pm, for a night of fun and games they will enjoy.  A light snack will be provided. The cost for this program is $18/child and the deadline to register is May 5.

Registration Information
All registration can be done in-person at Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation, 508 Piccadilly Street, Edinburg, VA 22824, via their online registration system. Or, you can mail or fax your registration form. (Registration forms are available at the office or online. The  aoffice is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to noon, and  1 -to 5:00 p.m.

Winchester, VA – The Shenandoah Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Council wants to get the message out that the showing of the movie, “Follow Me, Boys,” at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is still on tonight, even with all of the snow that fell in the last few days.

The event is completely sold out tonight, however, the Boy Scouts are looking for other venues and dates to replay the classic Fred McMurray scout movie again. (Scouts can start arriving as early as 5:30 pm tonight, with the program set to start at 6:15 pm.)

This special event is one of many scheduled for 2010 across the Shenandoah Valley, and the United States, to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.

A press conference is scheduled for 5:45 pm this evening at the Drafthouse – off Interstate 81 – at the Kernstown Exit.

For more information, please contact the Scout office at (540) 662-2551, or visit their website.

Harrisonburg, VA – The Home and Garden Show Committee of the Shenandoah Valley Builders Association (SVBA) are eagerly anticipating Spring, 2010 and the 30th annual edition of this famous show.  Everyone involved is busy working to make next year’s show the best ever. The show will be held April 16, 17 and 18, 2010 at the James Madison University (JMU) Convocation Center

After 29 years of success, and seeing this event gain fame in recent years throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, that’s a tall order. The show has grown so popular that the SVBA is now providing free shuttle service at convenient locations for all three days. Put this Spring event on your calendar now.

Once again the outdoor show will feature one of America’s premier hardscaping and landscaping exhibitions, a Spring Plant Sale, a Small Building Sale, dozens of exhibitors, and an old fashioned house-raising. SVBA builder members will be constructing an Energy Star and Earthcraft-certified house for Habitat for Humanity.  It will be transported to its permanent site for completion after the show.

See close up what “green building” really means and meet the experts. The 2010 outside show will also feature a beautiful custom sound stage from Helmuth Builders. Don’t miss the live charity auction and the opening ceremony.

The indoor show will be as spectacular as ever, with the region’s top home-related businesses filling the Convocation Center with eye-popping displays, special offers, free promotional giveaways and free drawings. The fun and excitement are infectious. Of course, we’ll once again have the huge Silent Auction display on the lower level that thousands of people look forward to every year. Proceeds benefit the programs of Massanutten Technical Center.

The Chairman of the 2010 Home and Garden Show Committee is Zack Snell.

Show Hours:
- Friday, April 16 – 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday, April 17 – 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday, April 18 – Noon – 5:00 PM

Admission:
Weekend Pass: $3.00
Children Under 12: Free

For Exhibitor information, visit their web site.

We must make peace a zero-tolerance goal for all those on Earth – united. We must work through things. Period. There are larger priorities at stake.

Be full of the Spirit.

I want to say that I am praying for all those who are hurting on Earth, and all of our family/ neighbors of all kinds.  Hang in there. Keep hoping.  Just do your very best, and learn to trust yourself/God. Don’t let disappointment in yourself prevent movement.

Let’s focus on our kids.  Let’s all love and help each other. Let’s have real  dialogue about the challenges before us.  Let’s stand up to any government that tries to strip rights away – in the name of “safety” – or any other basic principle of life.  We are the people. Let’s be responsive.

Note that many global issues are happening at the same time.

Other “helpful tips” -

Make others laugh.  Relax and enjoy life. This too shall pass.

Don’t believe everything you see. There are many “senses” beyond our human 6.

Keep calm. This prayer helps me:  Do not lose your inward peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. Meditate. Those are suggestions that apply equally whether man, woman, …

There is a bumper sticker that reads: “Upset is optional.”

Face whatever comes. Observe. Commend all to God, and then lie still and be at rest in God’s bosom. Be as you are.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. The power to change the things I can. And, the wisdom to know the difference.

Edinburg, VA – You never know what she’ll do next. Entrepreneur Fran Romeo, who has worked hard for breast cancer awareness for years, has now opened a wonderful gift and wedding boutique in Edinburg, a small quaint town along Route 11 in the Shenandoah Valley. And, boy, is the place and the owner a treat!

Partnership, rather than Competition
For years, Fran’s been helping individuals – including brides and prom-goers – pick out personal gifts, and has been consulting with corporations and golf-related organizations to select innovative business gifts. She’s a pro at working with people to plan events that capture their spirit and personality, and stand apart from the crowd.

Fran is a galvanizng woman. Since opening her new boutique last month, she’s joined with other Main Street Edinburg businesses to promote their retail enterprises as a team. Viewing others as part of the greater whole, rather than separate, competing businesses is part of a national trend. It’s all about joining together for the common good, and is a positive outcome that’s coming from the effect of the lousy economy on the retail sector.

New stop for Northern Virginia visitors
Fran Romeo & Companies is located at 212 N. Main Street. They carry great gifts and accessories, and furniture and decorative items – for special occasions and special events, including weddings, proms, birthdays, and anniversaries. The shop is fast becoming a new stopping point for folks visiting the Valley from Northern Virginia and the D.C. area.

Fran provides the latest in wedding preparations, including eco-friendly gifts for the whole wedding party, as well as “green” invitations and favors. She’s a great resource for finding gorgeous settings for destination weddings in the Shenandoah Valley.

Romeo also works with school districts, and non-profit organizations, on fund raising items, ideas, and campaigns. Her boutique accepts some small-scale furniture on consignment, and also hosts book signings for local and regional authors at her shop each month. Treat yourself by swinging by Fran Romeo & Company during their Official Grand Opening on Saturday, December 5 from noon to 4 p.m. Or, drop by anytime. (The hours are: 11 AM – 5 PM, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Closed: Wednesday and Sunday.)

Phone: (540) 984-3606

Click here for Fran Romeo & Company Facebook page.

P.S. Fran Romeo & Company is located below the Renaissance Bed & Breakfast, and shares space with Natty’s Nook, a beautiful baby store that also carries imported English nightgowns and vintage merchandise.

RETURN TO SPECIAL WEB SITE MARKETING OFFER HERE.

Middletown, VA – Country and Americana music fans, grab your hats! Robbie Limon, well known for his musical tributes to Hank Williams and Buddy Holly, will be headlining a benefit for the Wayside Theater on Sunday, November 15, 2009, at 7 p.m.

Limon and his band will be performing a medley of Hank Williams and Buddy Holly numbers. Other artists who’ll be entertaining the crowd include: the Rhonda Sager Band, Kevin & Lucille Ball, and songs from Southern Crossroads by the cast.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25.00 at the door. Call the box office for tickets at (540) 869-1776. For more information, visit the Wayside Theater web site.

The Wayside Theater is located at 7853 Main Street in historic Middletown, VA, in the Shenandoah Valley.

From the Fall issue of 7Bends of the Shenandoah Valley magazine

The Healing Corner

Our guest this issue is Dr. Cully MacDonald, who helps patients at Woodstock Chiropractic Clinic, along with his father, Dr. William MacDonald. Here’s what Cully has to share with us about their holistic practice:

1. Tell us a little about your overall approach to healing.

“I believe in using conservative, non-invasive means to both address patient’s immediate health concerns, and to improve his or her overall health and well-being. Chiropractic care seeks to tackle the root cause of the problem, rather than to simply mask the symptoms like so many treatments available today. In doing so, we look at not only the physical symptoms, but also the emotional and nutritional well-being of a patient. In our office, we also focus strongly on the importance of the doctor-patient relationship.”

2. You are a licensed in acupuncturist. How do you use acupuncture in your practice?

“Acupuncture is an effective form of health care which has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system.  As with Chiropractic, acupuncture promotes natural healing.  It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall function and well being.  It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems

3. What are some of the other techniques or methods that you use?

“I simply can’t stress enough the importance of nutrition. Given proper nutrition, the human body has an amazing ability to heal itself. At Woodstock Chiropractic, we put great emphasis on this area, and offer a broad variety of whole food supplements.”

4. What is Applied Kinesiology?

“Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a chiropractic diagnostic method that uses muscle testing as the primary feedback mechanism to examine how a person’s body is functioning. We then evaluate why that muscle is weak, and apply a therapy or treatment that will illuminate the muscle weakness and help the patient. These treatments can include joint manipulation and mobilization, myofascial, cranial and meridian therapies, clinical nutrition, and dietary counseling. Many people have not heard abaout AK and can benefit greatly from it.”

5. What’s it like working with your father?

“In my eyes, my Dad is a legend. He has an incredible wealth of knowledge of how to care for the whole body. I am always learning from him, and his compassion and kindness never fail to amaze me. Often, when I ask him how he knows of a particular treatment, he reminds me that he has been doing this for over 30 years. It is an honor to work beside him, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to do so.”

Woodstock Chiropractic Clinic is located at 712 North Main Street in Woodstock, Virginia. Their phone number is (540) 459-4727.  A wonderful massage therapist is in the same building.

** Beginning October 17, 2009 **

In Maurertown, VA – at the Shenandoah County Park

“THE RESURRECTION” HALLOWEEN HAUNTED HOUSE & TRAIL
(For all ages, including small children)

Shenandoah County Park & Rec Department is bringing back this traditional Halloween event for the community. Bring your family and friends to a   haunted house and haunted walking trail at Shenandoah County Park on the following dates:  Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18, and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, October 23, 24, and 25.

Each night’s activities will run from 7:30 until 10 p.m. Ticket sales will end at 10 p.m., and those in line at that time will get to go through the house and trail.

Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children, 12 and under.

Dress for the weather and wear good shoes as this year’s event includes a fun Halloween walking trail.

For more information, call (540) 984-3030.

Directions:

- If you’re coming from the North: Take Tom’s Brook exit off Interstate 81 South; head to Route 11,  turn south and drive to the Park Entrance (you’ll see it on your left.)

- If you’re coming from the South: Take Woodstock exit off Interstate 81 North; head to Route 11; turn north; drive through Downtown Woodstock, and north of town you’ll find the Park Entrance (on your right hand side.)

*****

**Beginning October 23, 2009**

In Gore, VA – outside of Winchester, Virginia – It’s really in the woods!

At Camp Rock Enon – Fundraiser for the Boy Scouts of America

“HAUNTED WOODS”

Choose what’s best for your kids. This haunted house has a “G” rating earlier during the day for younger tots; and then for older kids, the woods turn spookier with a “PG” rating later in the evening.

There is a haunted trail, a haunted house and a hayride at this venue.

Sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America, staffed by the scouts, and held at a Boy Scout camp, the woods near West Virginia will turn spooky on the following dates and times:

- Friday, October 23 – 6 to 10 p.m. (Rated PG)

- Saturday, October 24 – 2 to 4 p.m. (Rated G);  and 6 to 10 p.m. (Rated PG)

- Sunday October 25 – 2 to 4 p.m. (Rated G);  and 5 to 10 p.m. (Rated PG)

Ticket prices:

Hayride: $5; Haunted Trail: $10; Haunted House: $10

Package (all three): $20

They do offer group pricing if you bring 10 or more people. Call (540) 662-2551 for more details.

Directions: Located 16 miles west of Winchester, VA on Route 50 West. Take left at Gore, VA (look for the BSA Camp road sign). Take left on Route 704 (look for the Camp Rock Enon sign). Go 4 miles and make a left on 683 (look for Camp Rock Enon sign.)

(Photo: The ghoul was created by Artist Joseph Lewis of Mount Jackson, VA. You can see it on his porch on Gospel Street near downtown Mt. Jackson.)

From the Fall issue of 7Bends of the Shenandoah Valley magazine…

Here is just a sampling of what’s going on during the weekends  in October in the Shenandoah Valley, and nearby Northern Virginia:

Weekend of Oct. 3

**Oktoberfest – Strasburg
Come celebrate in the Town of Strasburg for the town’s annual Oktoberfest. This festival celebrates our town heritage and the peak of the fall foliage in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Take a hike along the new Riverwalk, a 1.5 mile trail that runs along the Shenandoah River. Traditional beverages, activities for children and adults, food, music, and more. A Business Expo will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. A street dance will begin at 7 p.m. Off I-81, Exit 298 & 296 – on Washington Street off (in the old town lot.) Call (540) 465-3187, or visit their web site.

**24th Annual Country Fair/Auction – Bristow
A day of family fun, auctions and entertainment to benefit Youth For Tomorrow. The host of the event is Joe Gibbs, YFT Founder and Chairman. It runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., ande benefits Youth For Tomorrow, residential youth home and private school for at-risk teenage boys and girls.
The location is at the Youth For Tomorrow Campus, on Linton Hall Road, in Bristow, VA. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 16 and under. Ages 3 and under are free. No pets. Call (703) 368-7995, or visit their web site.

**Fall Color Weekends
Veramar Vineyard – Clarke County
Take a drive to the mountains and enjoy the festive fall colors of Clarke County, and the Shenandoah Valley. Take advantage of special prices on some of your favorite wines, as well as holiday gift specials. Whisk the family to the Blue Ridge Mountains to taste our award-winning wines. Running every Saturday in October from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (540) 955-5510, or visit their web site.

Weekend of October 10

**Sixth Annual Vesuvius Heritage Day – Vesuvius
Join family and friends on October 10, as they celebrate in this charming old community located 2.5 miles from MP27 of the Blue Ridge Parkway on West 56, or on Exit 205 from Interstate 81. The Festival is celebrated throughout the entire community with yard and bake sales, antiques, music and arts and crafts. Come early for breakfast or enjoy a vast array of country cooking throughout the day. Sponsored by the Vesuvius Community Association and partnered with the O. Winston Link Museum staff, historical displays depict the Village’s rich history in mining, farming and the railroad. Located on the Historical 1776 Bike Trail, the scenic beauty of the area attracts both bicyclists and motorcyclists and those that desire to just kick back and relax awhile. Running from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Community Building, church grounds and throughout Vesivius. Call (540) 377-5861.

**Morven Park Steeplchase, A Loudoun Tradition – Leesburg
The Morven Park Steeplechase is Northern Virginia’s family-friendly steeplechase. Come, relax, get away from the crowds. Enjoy a superb day of hospitality. Finest Steeplechasing conditions with outstanding viewing hills. Family Fun Fair- Youngsters will enjoy the races, and also the petting zoo, duck pond, pony rides, and moon bounce. At noon, don’t miss the  popular “Family Course Walk,” led by Middleburg Jockey Gregg Ryan. Gates open at 11 a.m.. Post time is 1:30 p.m. Call (703) 777-2890, or visit their web site.

The estate, 1,000 acres just west of Leesburg, Virginia off Rt. 7 on Old Waterford Road, was home to two governors: Thomas Swann, a governor of Maryland in the 19th century, and Virginia’s reform governor Westmoreland Davis.

**Apple-Grape Harvest Festival – Mount Jackson
The Mt. Jackson Chamber annually hosts this event which showcases one of the main railroad depot locations during the Civil War. Nestled in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley, a state historical marker was recently erected north of town to commemorate the hospital which treated soldiers from both the North and South. The festival boasts streets lined with Arts & Crafts vendors, a selection of food to satisfy everyone’s taste, and exciting events, such as hot air balloon rides, square dancing, wine tasting, and helicopter tours. As you stroll down Main Street you will also be accompanied by the music of the many bands and performers set up for your listening enjoyment. Free. Call (540) 477-3275, or visit their web site.

**Culpeper Airport Air Fest – Culpeper
Come out and view life from another angle – see Culpeper County from the air. Held at the Culpeper Re3gional Airport, this event has something for the entire family. Tour the airport and meet the pilots. Aircraft from restored antiques to modern jets will be on display. Activities for kids include free airplane rides for ages 8-17, demonstrations, arts & crafts, face painting and the model airplane simulator. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is completley free. Had to 12517 Beverly Ford Road. Call (540) 825-8280, or visit their web site.

**13th Annual Shenandoah Mountain Bike Festival – Stokesville
Held October 9 – 11, this Festival originated in 1997, and since has become a highlight of Virginia’s fall cycling scene. The Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition will be orchestrating the activities; it was created when the Shenandoah Mountain Bike Club and Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Club combined forces in 2007.

The trail riding around Stokesville and in the George Washington National Forest is beautiful and very challenging, expect plenty of fire roads, endless single track and big old fashion mountains. Giving back to the trails is a major focus of the Festival so there will be two trail work sessions. The trail work sessions are great opportunity for those wishing to learn about trail maintenance and wanting to give back to the trails we all use.

Plenty of fun activities for everyone around the campground including: frisbee golf, volleyball and horseshoes. Children of all ages will love the kids’ mountain bike loop set up around the campground. All riders are welcome; there is plenty of room for camping. Prices range from $15 for a single day to $60 for the weekend. Register at: Active.com, or call for more information: (540) 434-9943.

Weekend of October 17

**Fall Color Hike – Delaplane
Enjoy the colors of Fall during this hike at Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane. Dress for the weather and experience nature as it gets ready for cold wather on this moderate/difficult 3-mile hike. The hike starts at 10:30 a.m. and is expected to last until about 1:30 p.m.

Rich in history, the park has rolling pastures and woodlands, scenic vistas and a look into a bygone era. Tour Mount Bleak House and see how a middle-class family of the 1850s lived. Nature and history programs are offered during the fall seasons. Primitive hike-in camping, picnicking and hiking are favorite activities in this peaceful getaway on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park offers a bridle trail and serves as an access point to the Appalachian Trail. Call (540) 592-3556, or visit their web site.

**Fall Harvest Festival and Haunted Wagon Ride – Bent Creek
James River State Park
Get ready for fall food, live music and good old-fashioned fun for the whole family. Wagon rides to the Tye River Overlook are $3 per person or $8 per family. Don’t miss the face painting, candle dipping, the corn husking bee, pumpkin painting, butter churning, herbal butter tasting, apple pressing, a corn shelling demonstration, apple bobbing, sack races and corn husk doll making. Kids and adults will love the roaring bonfire at 6:30 p.m, followed by the haunted wagon rides at 7 p.m. At 7 p.m. (fee: $5). All festivities will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. at SHelter 4.

James River State Park, six miles down river from Bent Creek, opened June 20, 1999. The park has three miles of river frontage, 1,500 acres of rolling farm meadows, three fishing ponds, beautiful vistas, 15 miles of hiking trails and quiet forests.

The waters of the James have shaped life in this area’s past and will shape its future. Monacan Indians, the earliest known settlers, hunted, fished and traveled the river. In the early 1700s, the Cabell family settled along the river, cultivated the rich soils of the floodplain and shipped produce down river to Richmond. A flat-bottomed boat known as the bateau was invented and the Kanawha canal was built to make travel and shipping on the river easier. The James River brought people to this area, provided for their needs and helped them build a future.

The park offers opportunities to explore the wildlife and habitat native to the foothills of the Blue Ridge. Whether floating, fishing or hiking, you can enjoy breathtaking views found only at James River State Park. Call (434) 933-4355, or visit their web site.

**Harvest Hayride
At Staunton River Battlefield State Park
Take a ride through haunted fields and the forest of fear. Enter a costume contest, play ghostly games and enter “The Maze of Madness,” if you dare. It’s only $5 per person, and children five and under get in free. Held at the Clover Visitor Center, this event will run from 7 until 11:55 p.m. Call (434) 454-4312, or visit their web site.

Weekend of October 24

**The Resurrection Haunted House & Trail – Maurertown
Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation is proud to announce that it will be once again hosting a haunted Halloween event. “The Resurrection” Haunted House & Trail will take place in October at the Shenandoah County Park; this year’s event will feature a haunted walking trail and haunted house. The events dates are Friday and Saturday, October 17 and 18; and Friday, Saturday, Sunday, October 23, 24, and 25. Opens between 7 – 7:30 p.m. each night. Price: $6/adult and $3/child (12 and under).

Tickets will be sold at the gate. At about 67 acres, the Park is situated along Route 11 in the SHenandoah Valley between Maurertown and Toms Brook. Bring out the kids and relax. Call (540) 984-3030, or visit: shenandoahcountyva.us/parks_new/facilities/shencopark.php

**Halloween Safari – Broad Run
Outdoor evening fun for kids and adults alike. See wildlife and attend a bonfire – comeplte with mar4shmallows. Join Bull Run Mountains Conservancy on a Friday or Saturday night for a hike through the Bull Run Mountains. Meet native “wildlife” that perform natural history skits and enjoy face painting, snacks, hot cider, a bonfire, and live music. Held from 7 until 9 p.m on October 18, 24 and 25.

**Arsenic and Old Lace
Theater Shenandoah – Edinburg
Located at the historic old Opera House at 107 Center Street, Theater Shenandoah is a non-profit (501(c)3) community theater serving the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Their mission is to provide a quality theater experience for participants and patrons in the Shenandoah Valley, performing musicals, drama, and comedy.

Accept a treat of a performance on October 23, 24 or 25 when you enjoy “Arsenic and Old Lace.”   This is a must-see, as last fall, the group’s rendition of “The Secret Garden” was a sell-out. For time and ticket information, call (540) 984-3972, or visit their web site.

Weekend of October 31

**Ghosts of Staunton Tours – Staunton
Does Mrs. Bagsby haunt the Belle Grae Inn located on Frederick Street? Does the spirit of Elmer Higgins wander the Daily Grind Building in search of his killer? Come and find out. Explore downtown Staunton on a 90-minute walking tour. The Tour offers many ghostly tales and experiences, along with historic facts of Staunton’s past. All guides are experienced paranormal investigators who will share some of their favorite investigative techniques in the field. Each tour provides a chance to get actual hands-on experience using paranormal equipment.

Presented by the Shenandoah Valley Paranormal Society, tickets can be purchased at the time of the event. Reservations strongly recommended. Runs every Saturday at 8 p.m. through Halloween night. Admission: Adult $10; 6 – 12 years old, $5. Call (540) 448-2743, or visit their spooky web site.

**DarkWood Manor Haunted House – Luray
Page County, VA

DarkWood Manor Haunted House will be open every weekend in October from 7 – 11 p.m. DarkWood Manor is a theatrical and interactive haunted attraction. For 8 years, DarkWood has combined movie quality sets and make-up to create a fun and frightening October event. Unlike traditional haunted houses, DarkWood Manor uses all orignial charcters and storyline. Due to the scary nature of this event, it is not recommended for children under the age of 10. LOcated at 104 North Hawksbill Street, the price is $10 per person. (On October 3, bring a can of store-bought food for the Food Bank, and get $5 off admission.)

Call (540) 743-2408, or visit their creepy web site.

Woodstock – When you hear “Support your local sheriff” perhaps images come to mind of  some movie. But, in Shenandoah County, VA, the phrase rings even truer  in “real” life.

Right now through this evening, many Valley parents are supporting their kids at Midget Football and H.S. football practices across most of the towns and schools in the Shenandoah Valley. They are busy living their lives.

At the same time, tonight at 7 p.m., the Shenandoah County Board of Supervisors will vote to decide whether to essentially strip Sheriff Tim Carter – and any sheriffs who follow him – of most all of his lawmaking powers – on behalf of the citizens living in the County.

The vote will be held tonight to either commit Shenandoah County to an agreement forever to a regional jail system, as opposed to taking care of any people arrested in the County via and by Shenandoah County’s own people.

Shenandoah County Sheriff Tim Carter said last week: “I love this job.”

“It’s no secret that I am for keeping the jail local. I will, however,  support whatever the Board of Supervisors decide is best for the citizens of our County.”

Tonight, unless the people object and make their views known – or unless members of the Board decide like Dennis Morris to change  their vote – Shenandoah County Supervisors will be voting to essentially take away the job that Carter loves… and give it to a regional facility, regulated by the Commonwealth of Virginia, and in part paid for by the Commonwealth.

And, all for the goal of… rushing to take the money that the state is offering for a given period of time – to pay 50 percent of the costs of the new Regional Jail which will be built in Front Royal at The Virginia Inland Port, next to The railroad.

For the last two years, most all of the debate on the Regional Jail issue in general has been deflected from the real issues at stake, and instead has been focused primarily on the money.

Two pieces of information which are pertinent:

1. Dennis Morris informed us this morning that the actual date that Shenandoah County needs to have decided whether they will adopt the Regional Jail resolution is when the Virginia Department of Corrections meets in November.  It is only September. According to Morris, there are at least two additional Shenandoah County Board meetings before a decision must be relayed to the state. Why then the rush to vote tonight?

2. We just learned that Rappahannock County is scheduled to vote on the Regional Jail issue at their Oct. 5 meeting. Warren County has not scheduled an exact date of the vote on the Regional Jail issue, but it is expected to be in October.  So, what’s the rush for Shenandoah County to have to vote tonight, without a Public Hearing?

Three counties must participate in order to form a Regional Jail Authority. Only the votes of the Supervisors from these three counties -  Shenandoah, Warren, and Rappahannock – stand in the way of a Regional Jail to be built in the geographically-strategic Shenandoah Valley.

Shades of 1861, or what?

The Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors’ meeting notes are on the Internet for anyone to see. Here is that page.

Here is an excerpt in which the Rappahanock County leadership describes what they see the effect will be on the power that their County sheriff will have – if/when the “green light” is given for the whole entire Regional Jail deal.

Rappahannock County is in a tough spot and really has no choice but to vote for the Regional Jail because the state has said that they may have to close down the Rappahannock County Jail  facility if they don’t move toward a regional jail. (It’s one of the oldest jails currently in the Commonwealth of Virginia.)

Minutes from the Rappahannock County – July 6, 2009 meeting:

“Regional Jail Project:   If at least three counties participate, the Commonwealth will fund 50% of the cost of a regional jail, estimated to cost $40 million.  Page County withdrew consideration of participating several years ago; Shenandoah County has not decided whether to continue as a partner, leaving Warren and Rappahannock Counties as the only remaining jurisdictions that are committed to the project.  Rappahannock County prisoner population would comprise approximately 5% of the need.

A site in Warren County is being considered and will be evaluated over the next six months.   If a regional jail is built, the local jail will be used as “holding cells” and prisoners will be transported to and from the regional facility.  There would no longer be matrons and jailers; the county would, however, continue to need dispatchers.”

Sheriff Tim Carter – as reported here, and in the Northern Virginia Daily and the Daily News Record – has brought forth a simple plan to add some additional beds for inmates at the jail in Woodstock.  These are low-security people – many DUIs and probation violations, according to Carter.  (Though this is not a long-term plan, he says it is adequate for the County for now, and a decision to expand the Shenandoah County Jail on its own time and money… does not commit Shenandoah County to the state-supported regional jail system.)

Fred Hughes spoke with Shenandoah County Administrator Vince Poling today, asking if a Public Hearing is required for a matter as large and important as this Regional Jail issue. Hughes said that Poling indicated that a Public Hearing is not required on this particular Regional Jail issue, but on issues like zoning.

Let’s support our Sheriff; he’s a good man that has the best interests of the citizens of Shenandoah County at heart.

The regional jail system would end up leaving Carter only with authority for the County’s work/release program. All Shenandoah County  inmates will be shipped to Warren County. Carter will be only 1 of 9 votes that govern the proposed Shenandoah Valley Regional Jail Authority.

*****

The more organizations that want to shine the light, the better.

]]> http://7bends.com/2009/09/22/support-your-local-sheriff/feed/ 0 http://7bends.com/2009/09/09/election-2009-pr-releases/ http://7bends.com/2009/09/09/election-2009-pr-releases/#comments Wed, 09 Sep 2009 22:13:15 +0000 Susan Thompson http://7bends.com/?p=2065 7Bends will publish each candidate’s press messages when and as they are released to us

U.S. Bill of Rights

Strasburg – In about two months from today – on November 3, 2009 – we’ll be served up with another election day. How are you going to vote? How will you gather the latest information about the candidates?

And, how can you be sure that you see all of the messages put out by the candidates – so that you can make an informed decision on who to vote on – based on who the person is?

Stay tuned this whole 2009 election cycle to 7Bends.com for “Truth in advertising” coverage.  What each reader will read on the “Election PR” tab of 7Bends.com will be just what online news editors are being sent by the candidates. You’ll be privy to the editors’ inbox of candidate press releases.

Use 7Bends this election cycle to get unedited news.

Bookmark 7Bends.com today.

It has been said that a “candidate’s only job is to get elected.” Not many would argue with that – based on their recent observations of the U.S. political system.

In strategic communications, media strategy, and political “posturing,” the behavior – and sense of passion and perserverence – that one sees in a candidate right before the election is what you’ll get.

What someone is putting out into the world physically is the only real indicator as to who they really are inside. As career counselors advise, for example… “pay attention when you’re being interviewed for a job. Someone who is “courting you” is likely treating you the best they’ll ever treat you.”

Publicity-wise, what you see in a candidate’s approach and style speaks volumes:

- Do you see attacking and defensiveness? Well, that tells you something.
- Do you see proactive, thoughtful, frequent messages to constituents from any given candidate?
- Does the candidate view him/her as the boss/expert of the district they represent, or are a candidates’ constituents his/her guides?
- A candidate’s message trail will give a voter a great indication on what subjects are a priority for each candidates …and a voter can also see if the candidates is taking action as they campiagn (“practicing what they preach”)… or just giving lip service to what he/she feels voters want to hear?

Between now and election day… is when/where candidates start to really focus on getting their main messages and values out to as many people as possible. By the press a candidate’s campaign releases, voters see what each candidates stresses, where they go, who they talk with, and if/when they choose to speak to their “challenger” in person – on purpose.

Some more observations one may make include:

- Is the candidate real – does he/she talk with you or at you?
- Is the candidate fair?
- How does a candidate handle questions, criticisms, and disagreements?
- Does a candidate stoop to ridicule or downplay or diminish their “opponents” point of view?
- Does a candidate spend more time in negative jabs, or alternatively, on focusing on clearly communicating where they are going, and how that direction benefits you, and your daily life?

This is a message to all candidates and “party machines”:

We are not just bi-partisan; 7Bends.com is multi-partisan.

We will print any and all of the official press releases from any candidate running for election on November 3.

Repeat. We will print any and all of the official press releases from any candidate running for election on November 3.

The email address to use when sending press releases from a candidate is: electionpr@7bends.com.

We will not pick and choose which news from which candidate we will publish. We do not have any agenda – except freedom. Our objective is to provide the information to voters that we receive – all of it. This policy and approach is in support of the U.S. Bill of Rights.

(See the text of Article I of the Bill of Rights below.)

To follow along on 7Bends, join the 7Bends Fan Club on Facebook, or choose the “Election PR” heading under the pull-down “Categories” Menu at the top of the 7Bends home (index) page -in the left margin.

_________________________________________________________

Bill of Rights – Section 1

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

Strasburg, Va. — Customer Appreciation Day is happening tomorrow, August 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Strasburg at Anthony’s Pizza.

Anthony’s Pizza, along with other participating businesses in Founders Landing, are hosting an all-day customer appreciation event featuring an outdoor farm and flea market in Strasburg. They are all joining together to help a common cause – the American Red Cross in Shenandoah County – in support of their Disaster and Emergency Relief programs.

Come on out and enjoy some great conversation while lending a hand to the Red Cross. Anthony’s is offering $2.00 off any size pizza from 1 to 3 p.m. tomorrow. They also have a pleasant outdoor patio, adorned with container plants.

Anthony’s is located off of Route 11 (Old Valley Pike) at 101 Founders Way – across the street from the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Strasburg.

Winchester – If you’ve been watching the news, you’ve no doubt seen all the headlines about the World Health Organization declaring a “pandemic” alert on June 11 for the A/H1N1 virus, the highest-level warning possible for communicable diseases.

What should people in the Shenandoah Valley be aware of when it comes to swine flu?

7Bends interviewed Dr. Stephan Haering, the Director of the Lord Fairfax Health District, late last week and he provided some insights.The Lord Fairfax District includes Clarke, Shenandoah, Page, Warren, and Frederick counties, and the City of Winchester, VA. Dr. Haering works closely with the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Virginia Department of Health and all of the School Superintendents in the five-county area.

The Interview

Question: There have been just over 80 cases of the flu reported in Virginia, but none so far in our region. What would happen if a case surfaced here?

Answer: It would be be dependent the situation. We’d investigate and determine the risk level and then take preventative measures. We’d look at who the infected individual has had close contact with and provide proactive treatment – antivirals – if those people fall within the high risk groups we’ve identified. These groups include: children under 5 years old, seniors older than 65 years old, pregnant women, and individuals who already have immune deficiencies.

Question: Would the infected individuals be quarantined?

Answer: Quarantine is actually an Italian word that means “40 days.” Historically, sailors coming in from sea voyages would have to stay off port for 40 days until any threat of spreading disease had passed. What we actually do with H1N1 is isolation, meaning that we focus on keeping the infected individual secluded.

Question: What’s your advice to Shenandoah valley residents?

Answer: Above all, if you, or a family member, becomes sick, stay home.

With the H1N1 virus, an individual is isolated for seven days. That decreases the possibility of the disease spreading. You should call your regular physician or your local hospital. Those sick should cover their coughs with their hands, and should wash their hands frequently.

Question: What else are you doing now?

Answer: We’re reaching out and educating a number of key high-risk population groups, giving them guidance on how to handle any potential situations. These include the schools, the jails, the nursing homes, the Hispanic Communtity, and other vulnerable groups. Staff workers are keeping their eyes out for any elevating suspicious signs of virus symptoms.

Question: What else do you want to communicate about H1N1?

Answer: Right now, the cases in Virginia have been no more powerful than the regular flu. They’ve also been coming in at a steady amount, not accelerating. We hope the situation will remain that way. We are constantly monitoring to look, for example, at how virulent the virus is, and how well the antivirals continue to work. In public health, it’s business as usual for us, and we’re carrying on.

The Lord Fairfax Area Health District can be reached at (540) 722-3480.

For more details, including symptom information, visit: cdc.gov/H1N1FLU/

Or, visit, the Shenandoah Valley area web site at: http://www.vdh.state.va.us/lhd/lordfairfax/

Wikipedia.com provides this overview of the virus:

“The 2009 flu pandemic is a global outbreak of a new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1, identified in April 2009 and commonly referred to as swine flu, which infects and is transmitted between humans. It is thought to be a mutation—more specifically, a reassortment—of four known strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1: one endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in pigs (swine). A June 15, 2009 update by the U.N.’s World Health Organization (WHO) states that “76 countries have officially reported 35,928 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 163 deaths”.

WHO officially declared the outbreak to be a “pandemic” on June 11, but stressed that the new designation was a result of the global “spread of the virus,” not its severity. However, there is also concern that the virus could mutate later in the year and become more virulent and less susceptible to any vaccine developed to protect from an earlier strain. This concern is partly due to the memory of the 1918 flu pandemic, which killed approximately 600,000 in the United States alone, and was preceded by a mild “herald” wave of cases in the spring.”

UPDATE – On Monday, June 22, 2009, the Lord Fairfax Health District confirmed its first case of the H1N1 influenza virus. Stephan Haering, the Director, said that a teen is recovering at home after coming down with the H1N1 strain of the flu.

Here’s a little inspiration for you this Saturday morning:

See Paulo Coehlo’s blog, and follow him on Twitter.

http://paulocoelhoblog.com/manual-for-climbing-mountains/

An excerpt: “The climb is yours, so is the responsibility, but don’t forget that the experience of others can help a lot.”

Paulo Coehlo is the author of many books, including the runaway best seller, The Alchemist. His wisdom is uncanny, and uplifting.

(Pictured is Signal Knob, near Strasburg, VA).

Richmond — By 8:30 tonight, his rivals had called to congratulate him. Earlier this evening, State Sen. R. Creigh Deeds was declared the winner in Virginia’s Democratic primary for governor, defeating Terry R. McAuliffe and Brian J. Moran.

The win sets up Deeds to again run against Republican Bob McDonnell, who barely beat him in the 2005 attorney general election. The election will be held on November 3 this year.

Deeds proved that money isn’t what it’s all about, as he beat McAuliffe and Moran, even though he raised less than either of them. Here is how the votes cast tallied up (as of 9:46 p.m., EST, with 99.8% of the precincts reporting):

- Deeds – 158,671 votes – 49.77%
- McAuliffe – 84,255 votes – 26.43%
- Moran – 75,855 votes – 23.79%

All in all, in 2009, the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival will present eight concerts on the grounds of the old Orkney Springs Hotel, a national historic landmark property now owned by the Shrine Mont Camp and Conference Center in Orkney Springs, Va., in southwestern Shenandoah County.

The fist act up on stage …to set the pace of the summer is Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul. On Friday, July 17, the woman who defines Celtic fiddle playing for a generation of Americans returns triumphantly to the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival! Eileen Ivers has been called the queen of the Irish fiddle, its Jimi Hendrix, the pre-eminent exponent of the Irish fiddle in the world today, and its future. The nine-time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion and her band Immigrant Soul are best known for the amazing voyages they take with their unique sound. She takes a Celtic tune on a wild ride infused with Latin, jazz, Caribbean and world music flavor before bringing it all back home to where she started, proving the Boston Globe’s opinion of her as “a beautifully inventive fiddler.” Ticket prices are $30 reserved pavilion, $25 general admission lawn.

No time is wasted, as The Dixie Hummingbirds, a Festival institution, buzz into Orkney. While they have always remained deeply rooted in the gospel tradition, their influence has made itself known far and wide in American popular music. Perhaps the great singer, the late Isaac Hayes put it most eloquently: “In the beginning, after the Word…there was the Dixie Hummingbirds.” The group, which celebrated its 80th anniversary last year, broke into the popular consciousness in 1966 when they prompted a standing ovation at the Newport Folk Festival.

Still greater fame was in store a few years later when they backed Paul Simon on his smash hit “Loves Me Like a Rock.” The Birds’ own rendition of the tune won them a Grammy in 1974. This tour engagement of the Dixie Hummingbirds is partially funded through the American Masterpieces program of the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts program, American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius, a major initiative to acquaint Americans with the best of their cultural and artistic legacy. Ticket prices are $25 reserved pavilion and $20 lawn.
The past meets the future, when Charlie Chaplin’s music returns to the people. There’s no better way to experience the art of Charlie Chaplin than the way his original audiences did—on the big screen, with live musical accompaniment.

And there’s no better person to introduce his artistry than Dan Kamin, who trained Robert Downey Jr. for his Oscar-nominated performance in “Chaplin” and has written two books about the comedian. “Charlie Chaplin at the Symphony,” presented by the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, features Kamin and the Fairfax Symphony, with guest conductor Grant Cooper, the conductor of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Kamin plays a “Classical Clown” mime that creates havoc with the conductor and the orchestra during the first set.

During the second set, he unmasks and introduces two of Chaplin’s short films, with the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra playing a sound track of original music composed by guest conductor Grant Cooper of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices are $37 and $32 in the reserved pavilion and $27 on the lawn.

This project is partially supported by a grant from Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour, a program developed and funded by the Heinz Endowments; the William Penn Foundation; the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency, and the Pew Charitable Trusts and administered by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. This concert is also supported in part by a grant from the Shenandoah Community Foundation.

Another master in her own right, Valentina Lisitsa, a magnificent young piano soloist, continues the lasting melody the next night. She’ll will join the Fairfax Symphony to play Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in her first appearance at the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival. “To put it simply, Lisitsa is a gigantic talent,” the Baltimore Sun writes. Her playing is “electrifying” and she brings unexpected depth to her music, the Sun continued. The Chicago Tribune says her technique “glitters like cut glass.” The orchestra, under the director of guest conductor Grant Cooper, will also feature Beethoven’s Seventh symphony. Ticket prices are $37 and $32 in the reserved pavilion and $27 on the lawn. This concert is also supported in part by a grant from the Shenandoah Community Foundation.

The week will seem like it has flown by, when Béla Fleck take up the reins the next weekend. Considered by many the world’s best banjo player, filled with passion, Béla actually went to Africa in order to trace the roots of his instrument, and not surprisingly came back with an album, a movie and world-class musicians. His album, based on the trip, “Throw Down Your Heart,” is some of the best and most meaningful music of his career. He teams with Toumani Diabaté, one of the African musicians featured on the album and in the movie. He is one of the world’s best kora players, an African instrument that is sort of a cross between the banjo and the harp. Reserved pavilion ticket prices are $30 and general admission are $25.

Could we be on Bourbon Street, or is it still Orkney Springs? Many people say that time is frozen out there. For nearly half a century, Preservation Hall Jazz Band has brought the sounds and spirit of New Orleans jazz to audiences worldwide. Whether performing at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, for British royalty or at the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, the band’s music embodies a joyful, timeless spirit. On August 8th, they’ll perform an evening of music that is inimitably American. Reserved pavilion ticket price is $32 and the general admission lawn price is $27.

The last weekend promises two concerts you’ll never forget. On a Friday night of September 2009, on the 5th day, the first of the last two musical treats of the Festival season entices listeners … Travis Tritt has sold more than 25 million albums and earned two Grammy Awards and three County Music Association awards over the course of his storied career. On his newest album, “The Storm,” he collaborates with musical greats to create a powerhouse collection of songs that emphasize the lesser-known soul side of Tritt’s singing.

Multi-talented musician, composer and producer Jerry Douglas’ talents are widely known, both to his fellow musicians and to enthusiastic audiences whose tastes span the musical spectrum. In addition to being widely acknowledged as America’s foremost master of the Dobro, the nine-time Grammy winner is a forward thinking recording artist whose musical inspirations encompass all genres. These two old friends will play amazing music in their special acoustic show. Reserved pavilion ticket price is $40 and general admission lawn is $35.

Some say (who is “some”?), that the best is always left to the last. Attendees will judge for themselves if that is true this season. We shall see. As America’s new First Family of Bluegrass, Cherryholmes stormed to the top of that world by winning the 2005 International Bluegrass Music Association Award for Entertainer of the Year – no small feat, considering that the competition included Alison Krauss and Union Station and the Del McCoury Band.

Most recently, the band was nominated for two Grammy awards. Their career total of four nominations includes at least one for every one of their records. Their high-octane music has been called “bluegrass on steroids.” The New York Times said the band has a “mesmerizing presence.” Reserved pavilion ticket price is $27 and general admission lawn is $22.

The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival’s 2009 summer season Gold level sponsors are Shenandoah Memorial Hospital – Valley Health, Shenandoah Valley Music Festival Guild and the Virginia Lottery. The Silver level sponsors are Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance and ShelRand Enterprises and the Bronze level sponsors are Graves-Light Wealth Management of Wachovia Securities; Lenhart Obenshain PC; Rodney Shepherd – Woodbury Financial Services; Shentel and Tracy Miller – Edward Jones Investments.

The Festival’s 2009 Official Providers are Holiday Inn Express and Shaffer’s Barbecue and Catering, and the ticket sponsor is Bryce Resort.

The 2009 Media Partners are The Northern Virginia Dail; The Free Press; WUSQ 102.5 FM; WAZT-TV; WMRA 90.7 FM; WSIG 96.9 FM; WLTK 103.3 FM/WBTX 1470 AM; WMXH 105.7 FM/WRAA 1330 AM; WHSV-TV3 Winchester; WZRV 95.3 FM/WFTR 1450 AM; WVPT-Virginia’s Public Television; Shentel Cable Company; ShenandoahValley.com, and 7Bends.com.

For more information about the Valley’s remembrance-of-a-lifetime concert series, go to www.musicfest.org, or call (540) 459-3396.

Woodstock – It’s almost been 150 years since the Civil War ended, and it’s time to herald that historic occasion.

The Shenandoah County Sesquicentennial Committee has been meeting since November 2008. After discussions about planning the activities of the upcoming Sesquicentennial Commemoration, the group decided that the general theme will be the impact of the Civil War on the people of Shenandoah County.

Through the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission a grant project had been initiated. The Shenandoah County Sesquicentennial Committee’s first initiative will be, “Caring for the Wounded: Shenandoah County’s Civil War Story”. Accordingly, the first grant application was written to the Virginia Sesquicentennial Commission for a Civil War Trails sign to be placed at the site in Mount Jackson where the hospital stood.

This grant has three partners: the Strasburg Guard Camp/Sons of Confederate Veterans; Camp #1951 Captain Jack Adams/Sons of Confederate Veterans; and the Shenandoah County Tourism department The grant was awarded in full in the amount of $1,300, with each partner coming to the table with $550, $550 and $200 respectfully.

Of the 32 grants that were submitted to the state, only four were approved and Shenandoah County was #1. This grant award was publicly announced last week at the first Signature Conference at the University of Richmond to an audience of over 2,100 attendees.

In addition, the Sesquicentennial Committee received word last Friday that its grant application for a companion interpretive brochure (entitled “Caring for the Wounded: Shenandoah County’s Civil War Story”),was also awarded in part by the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation. With these grant approvals, the Committee looks forward to implementing the Sesquicentennial initiative. Stay tuned for more details at: www.shenandoahtravel.org

For questions about Shenandoah County’s role in planning the Sesquicentennial events, call Susie Hill, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, at (540) 459-6227.

Woodstock — Late this afternoon, traffic was stopped southbound for about 3 miles on Interstate 81. Both southbound lanes in Shenandoah County at mile marker 284 due were closed until approximately 7 p.m. – due to a tractor trailer accident and medical helicopter assistance.

The area of the accident was between exit 291 at Route 651 in the Toms Brook area and exit 283 at Route 42 in the Woodstock area, not far from where an accident occurred on April 23 in which three people died. The nature of those injured today has not yet been publicly released.

As usual, every time there is a significant accident on 81, Route 11 (which parallels the Interstate through most of the Valley) also becomes clogged with big rigs. Case in point: businesses along Strasburg’s main drag – King Street – reported bumper to bumper traffic through the early evening, as did many of the other nearby towns which dot the Valley.

In Woodstock, VA — Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26, Fort Valley Nursery will offer 20% off on all trees grown on their farm – in celebration of Arbor Day. On Saturday, April 25, they’ll also be holding demonstrations showing folks how to best plant and care for their trees – at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon.

Come on out…embrace Spring, get some advice from the pros, and enjoy breakfast, lunch or a coffee at the Woodstock Garden Cafe (inside Fort Valley Nursery).

For information, call 540-459-5151, or visit their web site at: Fort Valley Nursery

Driving Directions: From Interstate 81, take Woodstock Exit #283. Go West (right) on Route 42 (Reservior Road) just past Tractor Supply. Make a left on Hisey. The nursery is located on the left, 1/3 mile.

On April 17, Woodstock Mayor Moyers officially cut the ribbon at the new Joe’s Steakhouse – located at 124 South Main Street (off Interstate 81, Exit 264).  Owners (left to right) Rich Church, H.B. Sager and Joe Wobbe are pleased to serve great steaks and seafood, using local Shenandoah Valley ingredients whenever possible. Cocktails and rooms for special occasions are also available. In the photo, in addition to Mayor Moyers (cutting the ribbon), Woodstock Chamber President Jeremy McCleary (far right) also joined in welcoming the new restaurant to the community.

For information, visit www.joessteak.com, or call 540-459-5637.

By the way …Friends say that they saw James Carville and Mary Matalin, in tow with family, at Joe’s last Friday night.