News for today's 2018

Ice skating in downtown Richmond

5:00 PM Tukiyooo 0

Ice skating in downtown RVA. Would love to have something like that here in the Shenandoah Valley....…

Governor Bob McDonnell offers prayers to Creigh Deeds family

7:54 AM Tukiyooo 0

Bob McDonnell Creigh Deeds Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell offers prayers to Creigh Deeds family

Statement from Governor Bob McDonnell on today's events involving State Senator Creigh Deeds:“In this tough and sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Deeds family. The news from this morning is utterly heartbreaking. Creigh Deeds is an e…

Peace, Watkins, Sessoms, Marcus on Gov.-elect McAuliffe's transition committee

5:26 PM Tukiyooo 0

Reaching across the aisle as he prepares to become the 72nd governor of Virginia, Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe <a href="http://www.newsleader.com/viewart/20131115/NEWS01/311150005/McAuliffe-creates-transition-team" target="_blank">announced his transition committee</a> as he prepared to follow in the footsteps of such notable leaders as Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe,<br /><br />Among the list of 52 public and business leaders on his team, the Democrat included Republicans. Senator John Watkins (R-Powhatan) and Delegate Chris Peace (R-Hanover) were picked along with political consultant Boyd Marcus and Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms.<br /><br />Reaching out should be a good thing, right? Politics has become so polarizing that those willing to listen to the opposite side should be applauded ... right?<br /><br />Apparently not.  <br /><br />On Friday, conservative activist Ben Marchi noted on his Facebook page that he had heard from grumblers:<br /><blockquote>I got phone calls this morning from some of my favorite AFP activists who were angry with Christopher Kilian Peace for accepting this appointment. My response was, "If Terry McAuliffe has asked you to participate in his administration and if there's something you can do to make Virginia a better place to live, work, & raise a family, then you should do it, and any other Virginian ought to do the same. It's better that conservatives have a seat at the table, than not at all." Am I wrong? Thoughts?</blockquote>Several dozen comments had been left by Friday evening, most in agreement with Ben's sentiment but some expressing concerns while 55 people gave a thumbs up.<br /><br />Delegate Peace took to Facebook, too, to comment about his appointment:<br /><blockquote>As you know, I have a very strong conservative voting record and to that end worked hard and invested resources in electing Republicans to office this and every cycle. At this point it is critically important that with the prospects of losing all three statewide races that our common sense conservative perspective have a seat at the table. I see my temporary role in transition as giving the people of my district as well as my conservative friends the biggest and best voice in their state government possible. Now is not the time for name calling or taking the ball and going home. Virginia deserves civility and honor, and real leadership requires listening and being engaged in dialogue. It isn’t easy but it is necessary. </blockquote>Delegate Peace is correct ... Virginia deserves civility and honor. Ben is correct ... conservatives need a seat at the table. Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe is offering both.

Peace, Watkins, Sessoms, Marcus on Gov.-elect McAuliffe's transition committee

2013 gubernatorial election Ben Marchi Chris Peace Terry McAuliffe transition Virginia Peace, Watkins, Sessoms, Marcus on Gov.-elect McAuliffe's transition committee

Reaching across the aisle as he prepares to become the 72nd governor of Virginia, Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe announced his transition committee as he prepared to follow in the footsteps of such notable leaders as Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, …

Free entrance to national parks this weekend

2:13 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QdyLK0bjnnZ0OU4wgcVg8T4JbbK5nS5Xc-VygYpT_XStj6h-Hj1W-T72cteS2_00g0_uBWYJsNU2KewQDMqM5TzZPkxT8LrK8kMjCq-NPvgMF_4XdAcqKMgS-9Z5C1z0CN-2WgG8EaaW/s1600/National+Park+Service+emblem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QdyLK0bjnnZ0OU4wgcVg8T4JbbK5nS5Xc-VygYpT_XStj6h-Hj1W-T72cteS2_00g0_uBWYJsNU2KewQDMqM5TzZPkxT8LrK8kMjCq-NPvgMF_4XdAcqKMgS-9Z5C1z0CN-2WgG8EaaW/s200/National+Park+Service+emblem.jpg" width="153" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/2013-fee-free-days.htm">National Parks will offer free entrance</a> this weekend, November 9-11, for Veterans Day. For those in the Shenandoah Valley, that includes Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive.<br /><br /><b>Virginia</b> <br /><blockquote><a href="http://www.nps.gov/apco">Appomattox Court House National Historical Park</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/asis">Assateague Island National Seashore</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/colo">Colonial National Historical Park</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/grfa">George Washington Memorial Parkway's Great Falls Park</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/mana">Manassas National Battlefield Park</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/pete">Petersburg National Battlefield</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/prwi">Prince William Forest Park</a><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/shen">Shenandoah National Park</a></blockquote><b>West Virginia</b><br /><blockquote><a href="http://www.nps.gov/hafe">Harpers Ferry National Historical Park</a></blockquote><a href="http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparksbystate.htm">A complete list of all national parks is here.</a> Enjoy a weekend discovering America's outdoors!

free entrance to national parks National Park Service Shenandoah National Park Virginia Free entrance to national parks this weekend

National Parks will offer free entrance this weekend, November 9-11, for Veterans Day. For those in the Shenandoah Valley, that includes Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive.Virginia Appomattox Court House National Historical ParkAssateague…

Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

9:14 PM Tukiyooo 0

Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement Tuesday night regarding the election of Terry McAuliffe as the 72nd governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.<br /><blockquote>“I want to congratulate Terry McAuliffe on his election as the next governor of Virginia. There is no higher honor than serving in the same office once held by Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. Virginia is a Commonwealth of tremendous history and opportunity; this is the place where America began. The privilege of serving as governor carries with it immense responsibility, and I know Terry McAuliffe will act in the best interests of the more than 8 million people who call Virginia home.<br /><br />“Elections are long, tough, hard-fought affairs. But they have an end date. For the 2013 campaign, that date is today. Now, the signs, stickers and ads must be put away. In their place must come comity, cooperation and a commitment to working together, across party lines, to continue to improve the quality of life of all Virginians. That’s what we’ve tried to do over the last four years.<br /><br />“Virginia has been named 'America’s Best State for Business.' Our unemployment rate is the lowest in the Southeast, and the third-lowest east of the Mississippi River. Our colleges are more affordable and accessible. Our state pension system has been fixed. Our K-12 system is innovative and productive. Our transportation system finally has the long-term, sustainable funding and reforms it has long needed. We’ve posted four-straight budget surpluses, held the line on general fund spending and our Rainy Day Fund will soon grow to over $1 billion. This is the direct result of bipartisan cooperation in the service of making life better for the people of Virginia and getting results. I’m confident that Governor-elect McAuliffe will continue this great progress.<br /><br />“Four years ago the people of Virginia honored me with their votes and this office. I can never thank my fellow Virginians enough for the trust they placed in me. Immediately after winning, then-Governor Tim Kaine reached out personally and offered the full assistance of his administration in our transition. The Kaine administration could not have been more helpful in the two months that followed. They made the transition as seamless and smooth as it possibly could have been. Now, we look forward to doing the same for Governor-elect McAuliffe and his team. I have already spoken to the Governor-elect and let him know that we are ready to assist with the transition and prepared to offer all the help his team will need as they prepare to lead our great Commonwealth forward for the next four years.<br /><br />“Election nights are emotional times. For the winner there is the thrill of victory, combined with the recognition that the hard work preceding this moment is but a prelude to the tremendous effort yet to come. For those who fall short, there is the sadness of seeing such exertion, passion and time not produce the hoped-for result. With that in mind, I wish my friend Ken Cuccinelli the very best as he moves forward from tonight. I hope Ken will continue to stay involved in the public life of our state, and I thank him for serving our administration well as attorney general, and giving his all to public service and the campaign. I also congratulate Mr. Sarvis for running, with limited resources, a good and strong campaign.<br /><br />“Again I congratulate Governor-elect McAuliffe, and I pledge to work in partnership over the next two months to ensure a smooth transition of power that is in keeping with the grand history of our beloved Commonwealth, and that best prepares the Governor-elect and his team for their public service over the next four years.”</blockquote>

Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Ken Cuccinelli Robert Sarvis Terry McAuliffe Virginia Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement Tuesday night regarding the election of Terry McAuliffe as the 72nd governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.“I want to congratulate Terry McAuliffe on his election as the next governor of Virgini…

Pranks in the Virginia Executive Mansion

10:33 AM Tukiyooo 0

Bob McDonnell Executive Mansion GovBeat Reid Wilson Virginia Washington Post Pranks in the Virginia Executive Mansion

Hidden cell phones ringing in the middle of the night ... cardboard cutouts stashed in the shower ... such are the pranks pulled by outgoing Virginia governors on incoming governors, a tradition in transition process. So says reporter Reid Wilson in …

No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

4:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

<blockquote><i>"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee."</i> -- <i><b>Richmond Times-Dispatch</b></i> (October 20, 2013)</blockquote>In an editorial that laid it on the line, the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/our-opinion/our-choice-for-governor-in-none-of-the-above/article_6a2c5e41-20f3-561a-a25d-52eedf4741f3.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a> refused to endorse Democrat, Republican, or Libertarian for Virginia's  2013 gubernatorial race. That news ricocheted around the internet as  citizens woke on a Sunday morning, met with raised eyebrows and mild  surprise from some while others nodded in solemn agreement.<br /><br />This has, indeed, been an odd election year in Virginia.<br /><br />The <i>Times-Dispatch </i>notes many of the issues in question and the final results are the same: they are not comfortable endorsing. Indeed, they note:<br /><blockquote>In the past, <i>The Times-Dispatch</i> has endorsed candidates with varying  degrees of enthusiasm. We find it impossible to endorse any of the 2013  candidates with even minimal zeal.<br /><br />Elections make  voters complicit in the government they receive. If we would not urge a  family member to vote this way or that, then we have no business  recommending Cuccinelli, McAuliffe or Sarvis to our readers.</blockquote>Interestingly, the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter"><i>Charlottesville Daily Progress</i></a>, finding itself in the same boat, endorsed Lieutenant Governor <b><a href="http://www.billbolling.com/">Bill Bolling</a></b> as a write-in candidate, noting, "Do the write thing. Put Bill Bolling’s name on your ballot on Nov. 5. Virginia needs him."<br /><br /><b>UPDATE October 28, 2013:</b> Another newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. On Sunday, the <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_b051cb8e-3dbd-11e3-bb5b-0019bb30f31a.html"><i>Lynchburg News & Advance</i></a> wrote, "<span class="paragraph-0">Put simply, not one of the three candidates  for governor of Virginia deserves the office or has made a strong case  that he is the best candidate. Not one of them, neither Democrat Terry  McAuliffe, Republican Ken Cuccinelli nor Libertarian Robert Sarvis." And more. Be sure to read it.</span><br /><br /><span class="paragraph-0"><b>UPDATE October 31, 2013:</b> A third major Virginia newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. Is this unprecedented? The <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/opinion/editorial/2337438-12/a-year-to-regret-and-regroup.html"><b><i>Roanoke Times</i></b></a> editorial on Thursday noted, "... </span>an endorsement carries with it the credibility of this institution. When  a candidate who receives our support visits ridicule or even shame on  the commonwealth, we share in that disgrace."<br /><br />Then in a stunning reminder of the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter"><i>Charlottesville Daily Progress</i></a>' endorsement of Lieutenant Governor <b>Bill Bolling</b> as a write-in candidate, the <i>Roanoke Times</i> added, "Those who cannot in good conscience vote for the official candidates should consider writing in Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling."<br /><br />With five days left until election day, 2013 continues to be one of the oddest, perhaps <i>the</i> oddest, in my memory....

No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Charlottesville News Progress Lynchburg News and Advance Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginia write-in campaign No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee." -- Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2013)In an editorial that laid it on the line, the Richmond Times-Dispatch refused t…

Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

4:15 PM Tukiyooo 0

Virginia's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services <a href="http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about/commissioner.shtml">Matt Lohr</a> of Rockingham County, who was appointed by Governor Bob McDonnell in 2010, announced today that he <a href="http://augustafreepress.com/matt-lohr-leaving-state-post-farm-credit-virginias/">would be leaving the administration</a> in December to take a job with Farm Credit of the Virginias.<br /><br />Lohr, 42, who served in the House of Delegates for the 26th House District from 2005 until his appointment as Ag Secretary, operates a 250-acre farm in the Shenandoah Valley. On Tuesday, he announced the career change on Facebook:<br /><blockquote>Serving as Virginia’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services these past four years has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. After much prayerful consideration, I announced today that I will be stepping down in December as Governor Bob McDonnell’s administration draws to a close. I am very excited to be joining the good folks at Farm Credit of the Virginias as director of the Farm Credit Knowledge Center. Here I will have the opportunity to build relationships and serve as a resource for all types of farmers. I will also be able to work from Harrisonburg, which will allow me the chance to be at home much more for my two children.<br /><br />It has been a wonderful opportunity working in state government over the last eight years. I will always be grateful for the experiences I have been given and I look forward to working hard for Virginia agriculture in the private sector!</blockquote>Best wishes to Secretary Lohr.

Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

26th House District Augusta Free Press Bob McDonnell Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Farm Credit of the Virginias House of Delegates Lynn R. Mitchell Matt Lohr Republican Virginia Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

Virginia's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Matt Lohr of Rockingham County, who was appointed by Governor Bob McDonnell in 2010, announced today that he would be leaving the administration in December to take a job with Farm Credit o…

Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

3:00 PM Tukiyooo 0

<blockquote><i>"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee."</i> -- Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2013)</blockquote>In an editorial that laid it on the line, the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/our-opinion/our-choice-for-governor-in-none-of-the-above/article_6a2c5e41-20f3-561a-a25d-52eedf4741f3.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a> refused to endorse Democrat, Republican, or Libertarian for Virginia's 2013 gubernatorial race. That news ricocheted around the internet as citizens woke on a Sunday morning, met with raised eyebrows and mild surprise from some while others nodded in solemn agreement.<br /><br />This has, indeed, been an odd election year in Virginia.<br /><br />The <i>Times-Dispatch </i>notes many of the issues in question and the final results are the same: they are not comfortable endorsing. Indeed, they note:<br /><blockquote>In the past, <i>The Times-Dispatch</i> has endorsed candidates with varying  degrees of enthusiasm. We find it impossible to endorse any of the 2013  candidates with even minimal zeal.<br /><br />Elections make voters complicit in the government they receive. If we would not urge a family member to vote this way or that, then we have no business recommending Cuccinelli, McAuliffe or Sarvis to our readers.</blockquote>Interestingly, the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter"><i>Charlottesville Daily Progress</i></a>, finding itself in the same boat, endorsed Lieutenant Governor <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/">Bill Bolling</a> as a write-in candidate, noting, "Do the write thing. Put Bill Bolling’s name on your ballot on Nov. 5. Virginia needs him."<br /><br /><b>UPDATE October 28, 2013:</b> Another newspaper refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. On Sunday, the <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_b051cb8e-3dbd-11e3-bb5b-0019bb30f31a.html"><i>Lynchburg News & Advance</i></a> wrote, "<span class="paragraph-0">Put simply, not one of the three candidates  for governor of Virginia deserves the office or has made a strong case  that he is the best candidate. Not one of them, neither Democrat Terry  McAuliffe, Republican Ken Cuccinelli nor Libertarian Robert Sarvis." And more.</span><br /><br /><span class="paragraph-0"><b>UPDATE October 31, 2013:</b> A third major Virginia newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. Is this unprecedented? The <i>Roanoke Times</i> editorial on Thursday noted, "... </span>an endorsement carries with it the credibility of this institution. When  a candidate who receives our support visits ridicule or even shame on  the commonwealth, we share in that disgrace."<br /><br />Then in a stunning reminder of the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter"><i>Charlottesville Daily Progress</i></a>' endorsement of Lieutenant Governor <b>Bill Bolling</b> as a write-in candidate, the <i>Roanoke Times</i> added, "<span class="paragraph-0">Those who cannot in good conscience vote for the official candidates should consider writing in Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling."</span><br /><br /><span class="paragraph-0">With five days left until election day, 2013 continues to be one of the oddest in my memory.... </span>

Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Daily Progress Lynchburg News and Advance Richmond Times-Dispatch Roanoke Times Virginia Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

Hot Springs, Va: Garth Newel Music Center offers more than just music

5:19 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin08btMpAn7GZavApcr48Yp25N4F4MMlo0hpV47ir4MN1gLLi3OlrTds8AepuGudLtZdCKa8rHFzhPh6-ys1MwzqqGW25eimVtNHR7l4QdsaKEq8fQZBNf1pUSXWjgWI-FTf9zpbNE1VvG/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin08btMpAn7GZavApcr48Yp25N4F4MMlo0hpV47ir4MN1gLLi3OlrTds8AepuGudLtZdCKa8rHFzhPh6-ys1MwzqqGW25eimVtNHR7l4QdsaKEq8fQZBNf1pUSXWjgWI-FTf9zpbNE1VvG/s400/25.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Following the long, winding drive to Garth Newel Music Center in Warm Springs, Virginia.  "Garth Newel" is a Welsh phrase meaning "new hearth" or "new home," and was the name given to this unique property in the 1920s by William Sergeant Kendall and his young bride Christine Herter Kendall.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkJvJNE8ETQitSeaTJlzr7rtT3zsbxDAhymhFt_KJb1cLFWiUBqXXyCTICMfPFDQE1yshbqjYqTzNrplnygV8DVfZP0nNKZt5eXpj0xaJVtEoyTKMeiXqlTA2uC-ObWgPXJ3oCVVhXqdT/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkJvJNE8ETQitSeaTJlzr7rtT3zsbxDAhymhFt_KJb1cLFWiUBqXXyCTICMfPFDQE1yshbqjYqTzNrplnygV8DVfZP0nNKZt5eXpj0xaJVtEoyTKMeiXqlTA2uC-ObWgPXJ3oCVVhXqdT/s640/23.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">William Kendall was a well-known painter, whose works are in a number of  important museum collections. He resigned his position as chairman of  the School of Fine Arts at Yale University and built Garth Newel in 1924  where the couple trained and rode fine Arabian horses, painted, and  enjoyed musical evenings in their home with friends. Unfortunately Mr.  Kendall suffered serious riding accidents in 1931 and 1937. He never  recovered from the latter and died in February of 1938 at the age of 69.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXi5b4DcsuopHO4ey3WhkJ_HtfPPOlMz9IAP_GSrP0yLjHnrVQvFe5jIxjYH9-havKR6ySClpbj2t1iuNHjEg0gAeEhoC-3HIGFqABrpwWEqcTWExy2606a7m_anv2ltRy4JMKxoHbDRvR/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXi5b4DcsuopHO4ey3WhkJ_HtfPPOlMz9IAP_GSrP0yLjHnrVQvFe5jIxjYH9-havKR6ySClpbj2t1iuNHjEg0gAeEhoC-3HIGFqABrpwWEqcTWExy2606a7m_anv2ltRy4JMKxoHbDRvR/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Christine Herter Kendall was born in 1890 and grew up in New York City  in a family devoted to the arts.  Her first cousin was Christian Herter,  Secretary of State in the Eisenhower Administration.  Her early life in  this prominent family shaped her career as an accomplished artist,  musician, and patron of the arts. Christine studied the violin as a  child and her family spent many evenings playing chamber music together.  She went on to study painting in Paris and then at Yale. She continued  to paint throughout her life and many of her paintings hang here at  Garth Newel.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7Kpgnfs8IS7fzwMpoVwpwlSb9mHeGkIjzLWP8R2dwRZ1E18s_5vGv-MAo0ZlrOq00Eg1bh8NWX1Y1DK6z09zipKFprB-HnzegsNEHmisglNXqw0F790_omM5IRy3JipXITyHEkvf1Y8b/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7Kpgnfs8IS7fzwMpoVwpwlSb9mHeGkIjzLWP8R2dwRZ1E18s_5vGv-MAo0ZlrOq00Eg1bh8NWX1Y1DK6z09zipKFprB-HnzegsNEHmisglNXqw0F790_omM5IRy3JipXITyHEkvf1Y8b/s400/20.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Following her husband’s death, Christine donated much of the property to  the Girl Scouts of America to be used as a summer camp. The Girl Scouts  found that it was too much to maintain, so she regained possession in  1969 and began to search for another use.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZLktlui0wfcfPw3pVeeVFTwYYuXceGQQd3NZAU2hi-xZf-ozOQJnfJWKL_qFTCX5DjlMlZlkt3uGk-BKx3MJO1YW_83sMUHGBTZpLw5X4JZlmIcxIloN3y1Ug0gVKHQKmuKP_BHq92r3/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZLktlui0wfcfPw3pVeeVFTwYYuXceGQQd3NZAU2hi-xZf-ozOQJnfJWKL_qFTCX5DjlMlZlkt3uGk-BKx3MJO1YW_83sMUHGBTZpLw5X4JZlmIcxIloN3y1Ug0gVKHQKmuKP_BHq92r3/s400/21.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A mutual friend arranged for Christine to meet Luca and Arlene DiCecco,  who at the time were cellist and violinist of the Rowe String Quartet.  At Christine’s urging the DiCeccos began a chamber music study program  for their students in the summer of 1973, and the Rowe Quartet began  giving concerts on the property. Christine arranged for repairs to  long-abandoned buildings, including the conversion of the indoor riding  ring where the Arabian horses had once trained into a wonderful concert  hall.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWCmt73dukUbpE3Nwv4XekIoLHvz-zWFk0HcsMug9KeAE170hEleCM7Q1TbokIwaK38fEDegoipwSvhqWRaDtzDfTazgN2_bmzT_KqkRlnUPh1elf-tkoUWs3n7Vlv1uCVn2bWCohx8cp/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWCmt73dukUbpE3Nwv4XekIoLHvz-zWFk0HcsMug9KeAE170hEleCM7Q1TbokIwaK38fEDegoipwSvhqWRaDtzDfTazgN2_bmzT_KqkRlnUPh1elf-tkoUWs3n7Vlv1uCVn2bWCohx8cp/s400/22.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Christine died in June 1981, bequeathing the property and a modest fund  to the Garth Newel Music Center Foundation. The DiCeccos devoted  themselves to the continued development of the Music Center and it grew  from a season of a half-dozen concerts in the mid-70s to more than 50  today. In addition to playing the violin, Arlene used her talents as  chef to add gourmet meals to the concerts. Overnight accommodations in  the Manor House, as well as the beautiful scenery, complete an aesthetic  experience that is second to none.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8dy14m7eoIL8sJ9BwBd3Hgym-SmO0L-N0PQyP5WsARTXrwY3pBIJBZW6zCj7JwgO_tT3Obf6K91ISqC7o6yX2l4brea0Ri2BVivoa1JY8hevCC_ksGuYKg8awLYM7cmBZ1d0jWtRotxf/s1600/39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8dy14m7eoIL8sJ9BwBd3Hgym-SmO0L-N0PQyP5WsARTXrwY3pBIJBZW6zCj7JwgO_tT3Obf6K91ISqC7o6yX2l4brea0Ri2BVivoa1JY8hevCC_ksGuYKg8awLYM7cmBZ1d0jWtRotxf/s400/39.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> After 25 years of artistry and indefatigable effort the DiCeccos  retired. Their vision lives on through world-class music and gourmet  food, offered in a beautiful setting and welcoming atmosphere. The Garth  Newel Music Center looks to its patrons, artists, staff, and volunteers  to continue their legacy into a new era.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://garthnewel.org/"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJIYE84lBPJfYdfJ48FQ0vqVqE3sK9vvkL6Gc5wcR0odrLCGwM7iAVrF4KpTEheURzBjPe0DhnPvDIszfRBtJWCU0Mwb0xFwjg82rH52jfSa98EYjT95oetJI-J9OjqXWLkJWgBs6A3_G/s1600/40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJIYE84lBPJfYdfJ48FQ0vqVqE3sK9vvkL6Gc5wcR0odrLCGwM7iAVrF4KpTEheURzBjPe0DhnPvDIszfRBtJWCU0Mwb0xFwjg82rH52jfSa98EYjT95oetJI-J9OjqXWLkJWgBs6A3_G/s400/40.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">At Garth Newel Music Center, music is the key that  unlocks a world of experience. From classical to jazz and more, inspired  music-making is just the beginning.  Shared gourmet meals, the  exquisite Bath County setting, and some of the most interesting people  you’ll ever meet make each visit a one-of-a-kind experience.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqBdNxjSvn9lUsBGd1RCejTtIipYxdOZypHz0NDIinerKTiCAURvnhP8FG2gEfSjlbJfos9Z8RoYzVlel0DsE2cZkHx_3o2MPM0RawOm2jy-zi-i2QIPGL4EbWqlezjSj-8EBlXj39Nkv/s1600/41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqBdNxjSvn9lUsBGd1RCejTtIipYxdOZypHz0NDIinerKTiCAURvnhP8FG2gEfSjlbJfos9Z8RoYzVlel0DsE2cZkHx_3o2MPM0RawOm2jy-zi-i2QIPGL4EbWqlezjSj-8EBlXj39Nkv/s400/41.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.garthnewel.org/Garth-Newel-Piano-Quartet.aspx">Garth Newel's Piano Quarter</a> will be celebrating the music center's 40th anniversary by performing at Carnegie Hall on Saturday, November 9, 2013. Tickets are now on sale. <a href="http://www.garthnewel.org/PDFs/Carnegie-Hall-Flyer.aspx">Click here for more information.</a><br /><br />The Piano Quarter is known for high-energy performances, virtuosity, and offering fresh insight into both standard and new repertoire. Their concerts are informal, conversational, and interactive. As artists-in-residence at Garth Newel Music Center, one of the premiere and most active chamber music organizations in the United States, they perform over 50 concerts each year.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3g5uOaPooy9Lw5S4J152vnVaGDkj49z1NrZtRA1ZX5ne_fb1SFFcx8diITJQhQ83vCH2h5Icja7DWC-2GfPmMhA38iXyTf6Gg_7nKhYpg35yway0T8lUAgSCwl5o-0b9J26r7x2pbpMd8/s1600/42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3g5uOaPooy9Lw5S4J152vnVaGDkj49z1NrZtRA1ZX5ne_fb1SFFcx8diITJQhQ83vCH2h5Icja7DWC-2GfPmMhA38iXyTf6Gg_7nKhYpg35yway0T8lUAgSCwl5o-0b9J26r7x2pbpMd8/s400/42.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Spend an entire weekend and enjoy all that Garth Newel Music  Center has to offer.  Their 1920s Manor House has tastefully decorated,  comfortable rooms that are just a short stroll from the Concert Hall.   On most weekends there are no specified check-in or check-out times. Continental breakfast each morning.  <a href="http://www.garthnewel.org/Food---Lodging/stay-with-us.aspx">Lodging details.</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7u-JCJLEOTf45B26-mirol5etqRrkGufz6lnizrZiuVa-b7_HJiZPeJ4qhtkiq36lJM5IrHXywT8EhZDnAoRUb3XQsNsif_J9nx4BFU8jkkN2xSWNTOYVMV50tAp6OLT6zNBlCaMD0SC7/s1600/43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7u-JCJLEOTf45B26-mirol5etqRrkGufz6lnizrZiuVa-b7_HJiZPeJ4qhtkiq36lJM5IrHXywT8EhZDnAoRUb3XQsNsif_J9nx4BFU8jkkN2xSWNTOYVMV50tAp6OLT6zNBlCaMD0SC7/s400/43.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Garth Newel Music Center has a long tradition of culinary excellence   paired with inspiring performances.  After many concerts,   resident chef Josh Elliott prepares a meal served right in the concert  hall.  The musicians join the audience in  sharing good food and great  company. <a href="http://www.garthnewel.org/Food---Lodging/Sample-Menu.aspx">Sample dinner menu.</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkL8VP1iRepOgRkeChCsVlHBd9IIXM0bgdr76k4Fi5QkLeQRLC2MIMXVa0mNLf8N3XG7BIWKT1ETnFucQ361QHwWHbhFLImq06kN8SJWlJtUMcML_HdU8i2Ed76ZmZcUbMJ2-mBThh6_Z/s1600/44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkL8VP1iRepOgRkeChCsVlHBd9IIXM0bgdr76k4Fi5QkLeQRLC2MIMXVa0mNLf8N3XG7BIWKT1ETnFucQ361QHwWHbhFLImq06kN8SJWlJtUMcML_HdU8i2Ed76ZmZcUbMJ2-mBThh6_Z/s400/44.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Information courtesy of <a href="http://garthnewel.org/">GarthNewel.org</a></div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />October 24, 2013

Hot Springs, Va: Garth Newel Music Center offers more than just music

Arlene DiCecco Bath County Christine Herter Kendall Garth Newel Music Center Luca DiCecco Virginia Warm Springs William Sergeant Kendall Yale University Hot Springs, Va: Garth Newel Music Center offers more than just music

Following the long, winding drive to Garth Newel Music Center in Warm Springs, Virginia. "Garth Newel" is a Welsh phrase meaning "new hearth" or "new home," and was the name given to this unique property in the 1920s by William Sergeant Kendall and …

Governor announces 400 jobs in Fairfax County

8:37 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhzWmNkhyphenhyphenpZLkUXGnu5WHFJqzs2WDbFlm6dWAQLVbkryeu_hJOpVK0Cv5cCwqwvL0T8IFz2SAeKc6HbrScA_WNL0C4tvKi6UQ3v0davWRfpAtt764tiIPQiUSE2KjqJRe4k4K7-xBWO05/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhzWmNkhyphenhyphenpZLkUXGnu5WHFJqzs2WDbFlm6dWAQLVbkryeu_hJOpVK0Cv5cCwqwvL0T8IFz2SAeKc6HbrScA_WNL0C4tvKi6UQ3v0davWRfpAtt764tiIPQiUSE2KjqJRe4k4K7-xBWO05/s200/Bob+McDonnell+5.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Four years ago, Virginia's attorney general, Bob McDonnell, was in the final days of his gubernatorial campaign with the slogan "Bob's for Jobs," a promise he kept when he was elected and joined with Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling to make jobs a number one priority. Four years later, Governor Bob McDonnell continues to bring new opportunities to Virginians.<br /><br />On Wednesday the governor <a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2046">announced 400 jobs</a> for Fairfax County with Cvent <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">(NYSE: CVT)</span>, a leading cloud-based event management platform that recently went public. Virginia competed with neighboring Maryland for the project that will move its headquarters to Tysons Corner and, according to the press release, will create 400 new jobs in three years and retain 451 jobs.<br /><br />As the governor made the announcement, he commented:<br /><blockquote>“As a corporate citizen that has called Virginia home since 1999, it is tremendous news that Cvent will continue to grow in Fairfax County with this headquarters expansion. The company benefits from the large, well-educated labor pool in the region that provides a qualified workforce, and the available site located on the new Silver Line Metro route is an ideal location that meets Cvent’s needs and allows room for future growth. We welcome 400 new jobs and celebrate the company’s Fairfax employee base of more than 450 that will continue to thrive in Virginia.”</blockquote>The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McDonnell approved a $1 million grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Fairfax County with the project.<br /><br />Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities. Cvent will lease about 130,000 square feet of space at 1710 Solutions Drive, and plans to invest $7 million to expand its headquarters operations. The company plans to move in the latter half of 2014.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2046">More information is available at the governor's website. </a>

Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Bob's for Jobs Cvent economy Fairfax County Virginia Governor announces 400 jobs in Fairfax County

Four years ago, Virginia's attorney general, Bob McDonnell, was in the final days of his gubernatorial campaign with the slogan "Bob's for Jobs," a promise he kept when he was elected and joined with Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling to make jobs a nu…

'Jeopardy!' asks which state represented by Gov. Bob McDonnell

7:11 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1Hn2KTO6EdYngTRApPKBE02I4uApBKsuFib8VUvgrZ4mkgbB4eb3BDAdnIWVlNuvStxlRvigUQJGe9cumRBrPxwgtAJ7YKdCNG9IcF0EQVIFwyp6mIFL5y5tD4DBVXigvjh7uOW-EO0j/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1Hn2KTO6EdYngTRApPKBE02I4uApBKsuFib8VUvgrZ4mkgbB4eb3BDAdnIWVlNuvStxlRvigUQJGe9cumRBrPxwgtAJ7YKdCNG9IcF0EQVIFwyp6mIFL5y5tD4DBVXigvjh7uOW-EO0j/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+1.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were watching "Jeopardy!" Thursday night with the kids when a very familiar name popped up on the screen with a response we all shouted out at the same time:<br /><blockquote><b>Answer</b> (read by host Alex Trebek): "On Jan. 27, 2010, Governor Bob McDonnell of this state gave the GOP response to the State of the Union addresss."<br /><br /><b>Question:</b> "What is VIRGINIA."</blockquote>Governor McDonnell and Virginia have arrived on "Jeopardy!"

Alex Trebek Bob McDonnell Jeopardy State of the Union Virginia 'Jeopardy!' asks which state represented by Gov. Bob McDonnell

We were watching "Jeopardy!" Thursday night with the kids when a very familiar name popped up on the screen with a response we all shouted out at the same time:Answer (read by host Alex Trebek): "On Jan. 27, 2010, Governor Bob McDonnell of this state…

McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

5:52 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YyeJoHGPeBHD4q0NbhbF2lAsmOAyRlOEcZL7QKNPMRwvykiHQpBT-TYdPZFG9kT9qoOEp5GDjCR-61bxdUV9ikFwDOiulVs2j3cmY9uqy04NJ80lSE8e9OseqpU1sj2bmJeHD1GEsbqY/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YyeJoHGPeBHD4q0NbhbF2lAsmOAyRlOEcZL7QKNPMRwvykiHQpBT-TYdPZFG9kT9qoOEp5GDjCR-61bxdUV9ikFwDOiulVs2j3cmY9uqy04NJ80lSE8e9OseqpU1sj2bmJeHD1GEsbqY/s400/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYfdDZjmxiXiD4ISXwwkGZaINu4_QBHk0S0-niOr1ysvdnUkD-LxbpfgchqHpba53d86Ede5lQWCfn0SzL37o5n99IyEAcwn7r4nBg8TseNAKVZA6Uaho6aV2fCJVONhClq7fYafx3xdV/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYfdDZjmxiXiD4ISXwwkGZaINu4_QBHk0S0-niOr1ysvdnUkD-LxbpfgchqHpba53d86Ede5lQWCfn0SzL37o5n99IyEAcwn7r4nBg8TseNAKVZA6Uaho6aV2fCJVONhClq7fYafx3xdV/s400/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins+2.jpg" width="382" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Photos courtesy of Michaele White, Governor’s Photographer</i></div><br />Governor Bob McDonnell and First Lady Maureen McDonnell received a  delivery of several hundred Virginia pumpkins Thursday from the Virginia Pumpkin  Growers Association and its members.  Growers from the <a href="http://http//www.vdacs.virginia.gov/shippers/pumpkins.shtml"><b>Brann/King Farm</b></a> in Riner, <a href="http://www.ashlandberryfarm.com/"><b>Ashland Berry Farm</b></a> in Beaverdam, and <a href="http://pumpkinva.org/association-members/"><b>Cassell Farm</b></a> in Laurel  Fork donated pumpkins, gourds, and other decorative items to the  governor and his staff to show how locally-grown pumpkins are fresh,  nutritious, and how they support the local economy.

McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

Ashland Berry Farm Bob McDonnell Brann/King Farm Cassell Farm Executive Mansion Maureen McDonnell Virginia Virginia Pumpkin Growers Association McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

Photos courtesy of Michaele White, Governor’s PhotographerGovernor Bob McDonnell and First Lady Maureen McDonnell received a delivery of several hundred Virginia pumpkins Thursday from the Virginia Pumpkin Growers Association and its members. Grow…

Commonwealth of Virginia: We're #1! Oops, not in a good way

7:57 AM Tukiyooo 0

Daily Press government shutdown loss income Virginia Commonwealth of Virginia: We're #1! Oops, not in a good way

Out of 50 states, the government shutdown is affecting Virginia more than any others. We're number one ... only this is not a contest we want to win.The Daily Press has all the details.…

Nancy's Candy Company in Meadows of Dan

2:22 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08iJl7Ep9Xg5YTFyjiymD3uH0xTXDRXwtD1dFMkEao2obi2VdudYmn1TdOr-519bYAhWc2FdYk4MXnkWCUYVWqtwAo14sEMvgf_OPQ3H-Qtwasur2KwfV8Lfx_uQdfnlHOHK8eyP92mJ5/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08iJl7Ep9Xg5YTFyjiymD3uH0xTXDRXwtD1dFMkEao2obi2VdudYmn1TdOr-519bYAhWc2FdYk4MXnkWCUYVWqtwAo14sEMvgf_OPQ3H-Qtwasur2KwfV8Lfx_uQdfnlHOHK8eyP92mJ5/s400/32.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">We stumbled on Nancy's Candy Company while traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in September. SWAC Husband picked up a small package of cinnamon candy at Explore Park outside Roanoke and discovered it had been made in Virginia at Meadows of Dan. We were heading south on the Parkway so decided to look it up.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5_M-kxgSdWAd7xmZCRvwQhOTqeviaWLiiDP5jSUwIQcSZIHBKrK29u16-fMm5aBYq9-JIwoYuprBET2GfdM1DNgPKh-ZR1aohyjR7uK_SLHMpxv6YA9SzbyL5Jscy27eoiK_YNhI_kEV/s1600/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5_M-kxgSdWAd7xmZCRvwQhOTqeviaWLiiDP5jSUwIQcSZIHBKrK29u16-fMm5aBYq9-JIwoYuprBET2GfdM1DNgPKh-ZR1aohyjR7uK_SLHMpxv6YA9SzbyL5Jscy27eoiK_YNhI_kEV/s640/33.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Within a mile of the Parkway at Meadows of Dan, there it was -- Nancy's Candy Company -- all decorated for Halloween.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Tkhk-8dpojFvUjXbAeIbWxYtiZqMKKfVTS4QGCI2yTTt5UM9W9gVkye6eSDf-FL6HufhcdNR02lqM9PNu48B_N4-NRXhftOibTjFB9CP8ueeI7HYUuxiJovwE2vQ9-wKHW2f_EoFBFJA/s1600/41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Tkhk-8dpojFvUjXbAeIbWxYtiZqMKKfVTS4QGCI2yTTt5UM9W9gVkye6eSDf-FL6HufhcdNR02lqM9PNu48B_N4-NRXhftOibTjFB9CP8ueeI7HYUuxiJovwE2vQ9-wKHW2f_EoFBFJA/s400/41.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It all started with this little package of cinnamon candies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFNPoE9RJgNR7aR-oQznGt6HE6_hBI8viHFDCMe_ug6fB6y0cp-8L71Ds_INulqBShvYY0jti54cXDIkX88rU-bUmS0m9tJW7H01A4JFy5dE_p0DS3SWEIZ510-yuYiTs5K9jVAjCzrz0/s1600/34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFNPoE9RJgNR7aR-oQznGt6HE6_hBI8viHFDCMe_ug6fB6y0cp-8L71Ds_INulqBShvYY0jti54cXDIkX88rU-bUmS0m9tJW7H01A4JFy5dE_p0DS3SWEIZ510-yuYiTs5K9jVAjCzrz0/s400/34.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nancy's makes some candies and packages some bulk products. Their selection of fall and Halloween candies was impressive.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cPcssOv_AwIPN9huOxLmajodb4rbSBMKB227nzjti1Q9LgmYWXDrNxWWqnZq9kZcYfjnhDAIyLVtznyKhfbzNtNmJx8StYSEsQPvW7b0zeY9EfhFwgYAs9HOM86GtL6M8Dh_t3_zfrSW/s1600/35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cPcssOv_AwIPN9huOxLmajodb4rbSBMKB227nzjti1Q9LgmYWXDrNxWWqnZq9kZcYfjnhDAIyLVtznyKhfbzNtNmJx8StYSEsQPvW7b0zeY9EfhFwgYAs9HOM86GtL6M8Dh_t3_zfrSW/s400/35.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIDV7HIoK-bpOozgdVnLVbgYNrVRe5ImlnX9jWIlCHhgClphqBdAYT9a2WHz_Zun57nbsYDIgU904UwfxRl2-HM564OY4i-hi-EsgaJaUV4oIY-y-B8sshplw57OuKlMN95oDNjW8Ozq5/s1600/36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIDV7HIoK-bpOozgdVnLVbgYNrVRe5ImlnX9jWIlCHhgClphqBdAYT9a2WHz_Zun57nbsYDIgU904UwfxRl2-HM564OY4i-hi-EsgaJaUV4oIY-y-B8sshplw57OuKlMN95oDNjW8Ozq5/s400/36.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_K6rXtF0YymzPBSd-yn8J37vhEx7Ac3lbxXjNzbcm3q3SCrBKMnpQSK_K4_ZHBWMQovHBwDbYfrzmbV8hD96lZRyqCcxYyg76HfqXadTpZjbOQPBhMTxCFGMo2nQJV-b22GkSNrBGMD-/s1600/37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_K6rXtF0YymzPBSd-yn8J37vhEx7Ac3lbxXjNzbcm3q3SCrBKMnpQSK_K4_ZHBWMQovHBwDbYfrzmbV8hD96lZRyqCcxYyg76HfqXadTpZjbOQPBhMTxCFGMo2nQJV-b22GkSNrBGMD-/s400/37.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFR8dMXQ6ve6Ty6BOdswJbf6wV-s3IUrA6049OOwJ8GTR8CYXyqlhJJdBVtQZErW0X4My0zoRGE3Iu7lORvCxg99ubmIdlEqj_CWXZcwR1JEZywc8SWY9UmuaUxTbIyDCrcWiYidR81jd5/s1600/38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFR8dMXQ6ve6Ty6BOdswJbf6wV-s3IUrA6049OOwJ8GTR8CYXyqlhJJdBVtQZErW0X4My0zoRGE3Iu7lORvCxg99ubmIdlEqj_CWXZcwR1JEZywc8SWY9UmuaUxTbIyDCrcWiYidR81jd5/s400/38.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z0fnU-OZTkFjR01OnoZxaXKrbIFCctvTMWjRBsUMU6Zod5aea3QMSL9mJC2vpE9oavtvwiQk-eBxS5qqRVnniGDOs0pLR0NZkTDBE5dZT_nWSa0vRtYDynIe5itkJp_i8NY8NBp3kEak/s1600/39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z0fnU-OZTkFjR01OnoZxaXKrbIFCctvTMWjRBsUMU6Zod5aea3QMSL9mJC2vpE9oavtvwiQk-eBxS5qqRVnniGDOs0pLR0NZkTDBE5dZT_nWSa0vRtYDynIe5itkJp_i8NY8NBp3kEak/s400/39.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">There was an even wider selection of homemade candies that are crafted on-site in the candy kitchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HiSOZyDT7Hma6OrPSFP0H9IF0tSB21pVvFt2E_uB8elpundvLb1wplGxOC2CPI8FSDfXa0GCqLCGnRirT9JSuKpkBqHE1Sb3LHE-2DhSQp6GeU5Y0WtulWZ6bxIkugYeSwmOlajgWVKT/s1600/40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HiSOZyDT7Hma6OrPSFP0H9IF0tSB21pVvFt2E_uB8elpundvLb1wplGxOC2CPI8FSDfXa0GCqLCGnRirT9JSuKpkBqHE1Sb3LHE-2DhSQp6GeU5Y0WtulWZ6bxIkugYeSwmOlajgWVKT/s400/40.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />From Nancy's website:<br /><blockquote>In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a small mountain community                where pride in accomplishment is still important. This is the                home of my Candy Factory. With the help of caring neighbors,                we make the greatest tasting fudge, chocolates and truffles.<br /><br />Using the finest chocolate, fresh cream and butter and a little                extra patience, I developed my original recipe for creamy fudge,                decadent truffles, homestyle chocolates and lots more. Folks                say our candy is the best they’ve ever had. <br /><br />Come visit us and shop our three candy stores – you’ve                never seen so many luscious chocolates, mouth- watering fudges,                artisan truffles and handmade candies. And at factory prices!</blockquote>If you're near Meadows of Dan or Mabry Mill or that part of Virginia, stop by and visit with the folks at Nancy's.<br /><br /><i>Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell</i><br /><i>September 27, 2013</i>

Blue Ridge Parkway candy makers Mabry Mill Meadows of Dan Nancy's Candy Store tourism Virginia Virginia Is For Lovers Nancy's Candy Company in Meadows of Dan

We stumbled on Nancy's Candy Company while traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in September. SWAC Husband picked up a small package of cinnamon candy at Explore Park outside Roanoke and discovered it had been made in Virginia at Meadows of Dan. We were …

General Robert E. Lee ... 1807 - October 12, 1870

5:41 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibauC12Gjq56KqaYp0KkQeryub8pXqTpcNdj7jxLAEUcYJdic_Ffk5hGt-JhO5-TErdXRGqLiSd7zrlN1iMT4RoPTAd3Z8CGxMUoDeaTEJUCIM4Jw7VqMZITDyS87_sYI6aKRHefNMjkj0/s1600/Robert+E.+Lee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibauC12Gjq56KqaYp0KkQeryub8pXqTpcNdj7jxLAEUcYJdic_Ffk5hGt-JhO5-TErdXRGqLiSd7zrlN1iMT4RoPTAd3Z8CGxMUoDeaTEJUCIM4Jw7VqMZITDyS87_sYI6aKRHefNMjkj0/s1600/Robert+E.+Lee.jpg" /></a></div><br /><i>"It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond of it."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">-- General Robert E. Lee</div><br />On this day in 1870, General Robert E. Lee died at the age of 67 after suffering a stroke while serving as president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia. He is buried at the chapel at Washington and Lee, with his trusty horse Traveller buried nearby.<br /><br />Lee is perhaps best remembered as a Virginian who would not fight against his native state and turned down President Abraham Lincoln's offer to command  the Union Army. When Virginia voted to secede from the nation in 1861,  Lee had serious misgivings about secession but could not fight against the south so agreed to lead the Confederate Army.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.historynet.com/robert-e-lee">HistoryNet.com</a> notes:<br /><blockquote>Today, [Lee] remains internationally respected as a daring, often brilliant  tactician, a gentleman who never referred to Northern soldiers as "the  enemy" but as "those people over there," a man who opposed secession but  felt honor-bound to serve his native state. He applied for restoration  of his American citizenship, but the papers were lost until the 1970s,  when his wish was granted. </blockquote>General Lee, from a long line of Virginians, remembered on this day.

Civil War Lexington Robert E. Lee Virginia War Between the States Washington and Lee University General Robert E. Lee ... 1807 - October 12, 1870

"It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond of it."-- General Robert E. LeeOn this day in 1870, General Robert E. Lee died at the age of 67 after suffering a stroke while serving as president of Washington College (now Washington …

Former Gov. Douglas Wilder endorses Terry McAuliffe

11:10 AM Tukiyooo 0

Former Democratic Virginia Governor Douglas Wilder is respected by many for his lack of blind party loyalty, sometimes leaving people hanging on to the edge of their seats wondering whether he will be endorsing Democrats or Republicans in any given election. This year's gubernatorial election was no exception.<br /><br />Today Governor <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/doug-wilder-endorses-terry-mcauliffe-for-governor/2013/10/10/4727267c-31c4-11e3-8627-c5d7de0a046b_story.html">Wilder endorsed Democratic candidate Terry McAuliffe</a> who expressed his gratitude in a statement: <br /><blockquote>"I  am honored to have the support of Governor Doug Wilder. Governor Wilder  has a long record of responsible budgeting and working with members of  both parties to get things done, exactly the opposite of what we are  seeing happen in Washington where Ted Cruz and Ken Cuccinelli's extreme  Tea Party allies have held the government hostage to drive their extreme  ideological agenda. As governor, I will work in a bipartisan way to  focus on growing and diversifying the Commonwealth's economy and  creating more opportunities for all Virginians."</blockquote>Wilder shared his reasons for the endorsement with the <i><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/doug-wilder-endorses-terry-mcauliffe-for-governor/2013/10/10/4727267c-31c4-11e3-8627-c5d7de0a046b_story.html">Washington Post</a>:</i><br /><blockquote>Wilder told The Post Thursday that the federal government shutdown, and the polarized Washington politics behind it, have helped convince him that McAuliffe is the right man to lead Virginia.<br /><br />“The thing that’s going on at the national level — we’re so close to it — we could show that we are not affected by it and we are going to move forward,” Wilder said. “We are not going to separate into enclaves — this group, that group. It’s not a matter of pitting one group against the other group.”</blockquote>Read the <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/doug-wilder-endorses-terry-mcauliffe-for-governor/2013/10/10/4727267c-31c4-11e3-8627-c5d7de0a046b_story.html">entire article here</a>. This is a solid endorsement for McAuliffe.<br /><br />Governor Wilder, a Richmond attorney who began serving his district in the Virginia General Assembly in 1969, was elected governor of Virginia in 1990, the first African-American governor since Reconstruction.

2013 gubernatorial election Douglas Wilder Terry McAuliffe Virginia Former Gov. Douglas Wilder endorses Terry McAuliffe

September scenes along the Blue Ridge Parkway

5:54 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwyFVelB1Iaa7Jbu_6vgoAfP9I4PemlOc06aea3XWx_PVgFYiFHy_gT2SQmYv3XoffXxRj4o7ACKGyGOM8A8knNOfMRFmtXRKVUBWpgUTC7oL50VMPVsBKurFKK3_BTJ_S8Hdliej0BRa/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwyFVelB1Iaa7Jbu_6vgoAfP9I4PemlOc06aea3XWx_PVgFYiFHy_gT2SQmYv3XoffXxRj4o7ACKGyGOM8A8knNOfMRFmtXRKVUBWpgUTC7oL50VMPVsBKurFKK3_BTJ_S8Hdliej0BRa/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The government shutdown has closed all attractions, restaurants, restrooms, and visitor centers along the Blue Ridge Parkway but the roadway itself is still open. Here are some scenes from Monday, the last day before the shutdown, as SWAC Husband and I drove from North Carolina back home to the Shenandoah Valley.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiEOtE-YDgwMxRp2-QtSufTb5rx08ltBmoWQROOX7BlGAi-pUY4CpSxDmKDnRT6lmQH6xMq9mz7TJbqaxoSYmlBDJZTzceJ0JOepjuUc_rfmTUxZYgSxTGc5zgrp12XN2vaN73ARWtspP/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiEOtE-YDgwMxRp2-QtSufTb5rx08ltBmoWQROOX7BlGAi-pUY4CpSxDmKDnRT6lmQH6xMq9mz7TJbqaxoSYmlBDJZTzceJ0JOepjuUc_rfmTUxZYgSxTGc5zgrp12XN2vaN73ARWtspP/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mabry Mill and the restaurant are closed due to the shutdown. We enjoyed visiting with historical interpreters including the blacksmith who had visited the <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/">Frontier Culture Museum</a> in Staunton and was impressed not only with the museum's blacksmith but the entire site.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM3pP6vGVhdqKatqxowMrzzrzY_Rz0yl8mpiu8OuyOc_YwD47nfUgiWsEh64pGS-O0h19ti5sJ-jRb-Qv7k_50g-eRdsWsbkpNLm29O-TSoZvt2SStrFp38tRMnjWvLfooRJcKp51WEp6/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM3pP6vGVhdqKatqxowMrzzrzY_Rz0yl8mpiu8OuyOc_YwD47nfUgiWsEh64pGS-O0h19ti5sJ-jRb-Qv7k_50g-eRdsWsbkpNLm29O-TSoZvt2SStrFp38tRMnjWvLfooRJcKp51WEp6/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYTPDPiLxImQuGE8hzKzzAfP1be1IAE8fYZ0knWJwU-7MjZw53vyP7hX7ue7d7XFG5ah44Lr0dOSerOs4Z1CyCkBS-S9Uqr2aJ2qYpkUfqH_Ad9XxE2ScOsn4e68P60VlxdupryjE4jBN/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYTPDPiLxImQuGE8hzKzzAfP1be1IAE8fYZ0knWJwU-7MjZw53vyP7hX7ue7d7XFG5ah44Lr0dOSerOs4Z1CyCkBS-S9Uqr2aJ2qYpkUfqH_Ad9XxE2ScOsn4e68P60VlxdupryjE4jBN/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1jut1Z2sc91Hp_yuBEJLuPyvzRlSmJ9LKdMhAZPMg-KV0LBT2Q4h6amSqW4-5Pup-8_0WEbSheb7YGpFyuBMPTSq1Spvay4p28klAggu6kZWFkr4B__gJbq8h9stDUJxCQoXQlwv3coM/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1jut1Z2sc91Hp_yuBEJLuPyvzRlSmJ9LKdMhAZPMg-KV0LBT2Q4h6amSqW4-5Pup-8_0WEbSheb7YGpFyuBMPTSq1Spvay4p28klAggu6kZWFkr4B__gJbq8h9stDUJxCQoXQlwv3coM/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKRX6twfUCLqyqdH8N_DdT2MAfysbwDCfdX6g2jl3MCkGE5ULR3FjmVqCzw6cKIOBUEw-O5r1Ab9queQYIXQNEACOlIs9GUCrQrwqgU7-5ITxo2B5PZd4L32uee0WH5R5VmFZb7y_T-8j/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKRX6twfUCLqyqdH8N_DdT2MAfysbwDCfdX6g2jl3MCkGE5ULR3FjmVqCzw6cKIOBUEw-O5r1Ab9queQYIXQNEACOlIs9GUCrQrwqgU7-5ITxo2B5PZd4L32uee0WH5R5VmFZb7y_T-8j/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWJWm2qSMk338Jos-E8mwZI-_fApuGqnwSJM2uhL8xzyEa_cPl62jXsIrExrCeedCw8wiGu_Df5xsywW9xq0W-3NYogW0x-vGNJozho3jXrUXVFF2N8jHl_1kbWnKEBeg1BzA8i5Tffkq/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWJWm2qSMk338Jos-E8mwZI-_fApuGqnwSJM2uhL8xzyEa_cPl62jXsIrExrCeedCw8wiGu_Df5xsywW9xq0W-3NYogW0x-vGNJozho3jXrUXVFF2N8jHl_1kbWnKEBeg1BzA8i5Tffkq/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpXqFjG-BFXA2JkvSpR6p4Xuj3H40pnkg9Ovvih54VL8cQfBTWT-_11boH2ekzgntl-T6bhDKw9KdQuuvCF1nfYLTDZsVuYPjhL0PjIiTXmwHdL2kCSqiXvJntWJeP-9nXDxqULShP6nA/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpXqFjG-BFXA2JkvSpR6p4Xuj3H40pnkg9Ovvih54VL8cQfBTWT-_11boH2ekzgntl-T6bhDKw9KdQuuvCF1nfYLTDZsVuYPjhL0PjIiTXmwHdL2kCSqiXvJntWJeP-9nXDxqULShP6nA/s400/24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />September 30, 2013

Blue Ridge Parkway government shutdown Mabry Mill North Carolina Virginia September scenes along the Blue Ridge Parkway

The government shutdown has closed all attractions, restaurants, restrooms, and visitor centers along the Blue Ridge Parkway but the roadway itself is still open. Here are some scenes from Monday, the last day before the shutdown, as SWAC Husband and…

The beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway

7:45 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJC_1d2AYp8YQdz_r-UaLgoNFNd5VD0AkpODNqYr0GhElN0u5t5xo4NlXjv11M1rOKXADX3n1VxivGrCKxIklesTZVzeoaSHVxfOdbq0i2qOetBf12PN_NSTeDKpY-5hu2Nnb7NfzZ_hg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJC_1d2AYp8YQdz_r-UaLgoNFNd5VD0AkpODNqYr0GhElN0u5t5xo4NlXjv11M1rOKXADX3n1VxivGrCKxIklesTZVzeoaSHVxfOdbq0i2qOetBf12PN_NSTeDKpY-5hu2Nnb7NfzZ_hg/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNRm7dOnwP5Yss0Mz7XBVmGusFCT1I561jGsNevtABP8KK9Yucdh_4PVYiJixCA716p4PKtyARr3hMBLB1-qtbvTaSOUCw7cLfEUwpvhnVK3Wns4m9YAP1CFbaL49vfg486A6w3IfibZX/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNRm7dOnwP5Yss0Mz7XBVmGusFCT1I561jGsNevtABP8KK9Yucdh_4PVYiJixCA716p4PKtyARr3hMBLB1-qtbvTaSOUCw7cLfEUwpvhnVK3Wns4m9YAP1CFbaL49vfg486A6w3IfibZX/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxytvd3SCh4D2fxeO6aQFKbSCB-a3Espsjg09V2olhMrdm-KbrZQ_QnbX_3zdZy-GeYhs08SyY8sTmXr8lQ73dnKUmOBAqjSQl980ZaTubWODt1QZ3aNyWwVMx-2FH1txv9QNAUBfzwJn/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxytvd3SCh4D2fxeO6aQFKbSCB-a3Espsjg09V2olhMrdm-KbrZQ_QnbX_3zdZy-GeYhs08SyY8sTmXr8lQ73dnKUmOBAqjSQl980ZaTubWODt1QZ3aNyWwVMx-2FH1txv9QNAUBfzwJn/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />September 30, 2013

Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service North Carolina Virginia The beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Photos by Lynn R. MitchellSeptember 30, 2013…

Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Day for 15 and under

3:41 AM Tukiyooo 0

There's excitement in the air this morning for young hunters 15 and under....<br /><br /><h2 id="youth-deer-hunting-day">Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Day</h2><h4>September 28</h4><ul><li>Statewide.</li><li>Resident and nonresident youth hunters 15 years of age and under and holders of a valid apprentice hunting license, when in compliance with all applicable laws and licenses, may hunt when accompanied and directly supervised by an adult who has a valid Virginia hunting license or is exempt from purchasing a hunting license. Nonresident youth of any age need to have the appropriate licenses.</li><li>Deer of either sex may be taken.</li><li>Antlerless deer taken on the youth and apprentice deer hunting day are in addition to an antlerless deer taken under the youth antlerless deer regulation and on either-sex deer hunting days.</li><li>Deer harvested by youth or apprentice hunters count against their daily and season bag limit.</li><li>Blaze orange requirements and exceptions for firearms deer season are in effect (see <a href="http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/hunting/regulations/general.asp">General Hunting Regulations</a>).</li><li>Deer hunting with dogs is prohibited, except that tracking dogs are allowed (see <a href="http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/hunting/regulations/general.asp#hunting-with-dogs">Hunting with Dogs</a>).</li><li>Adult hunters accompanying youth or apprentice deer hunters:      <ul><li>do not need a bear, deer, turkey license.</li><li>shall not carry or discharge a firearm.</li><li>shall maintain close visual and verbal contact with and provide adequate direction to the youth or apprentice hunter.</li></ul></li></ul>

deer season Virginia Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Day Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting Day for 15 and under

There's excitement in the air this morning for young hunters 15 and under....Youth and Apprentice Deer Hunting DaySeptember 28Statewide.Resident and nonresident youth hunters 15 years of age and under and holders of a valid apprentice hunting license…