Blog Archives
Muttvile Comix comes to Waynesboro
Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix brings pet shelter dogs turned performers to theWayneTheatre/Ross Performing Arts Center on Thursday, September 22, with two shows, at 12:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The first show at 12:30 p.m. is offered as part of our Arts Education programming. The show is open to the public. Tickets are only $7.50 for the matinee performance.
The 7 p.m. show tickets are $15 per person. Meet and greets and photo ops with the dogs are available after the show.
Afternoon Tea at the Anne Hathaway Cottage
Afternoon Tea at the Anne Hathaway Cottage in Staunton with local author Mollie Cox Bryan and her just released “Death among the Doilies” at 3pm.
Reservations include an autographed copy of “Death among the Doilies“, authentic English Afternoon Tea, book talk/reading from the author & chance for door prizes.
Reservation cost $35.
Space is limited so reserve your space online at www.stonesoupbooks.net or by calling 540-943-0084.
Campsite Cook-Off
The Inaugural Campsite Cook-off will be held Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18 at Douthat State Park in Millboro. The event will begin at 11 a.m. each day.
Enjoy a weekend of sampling bbg, live music, and craft beer from Devils Backbone Brewery of Lexington, VA. Spectators will be able to enjoy samples from each of the 22 competing teams if they wish. Concessions available from the Douthat State Park Environmental Education Group. Entrance fee is $5 per person however, ages 10 and under enter free.
There is no parking fee required for guests attending the event. Craft beer tickets will be sold on Saturday for $3 per ticket to adults ages 21 and older.
Big Game Contest at Augusta Expo
The 77th Western Regional & State Big Game Contest will be held at the Augusta Expo Event Center in Fishersville.
There will be a full house of vendors with bows, guns, knives, ATVs, campers, trucks, woodcrafters, hunting gear, fishing gear, T-shirts, turkey calls, Canyon coolers, wildlife photography, featured artist Bruce Dellinger, search & rescue dogs and more.
The Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, celebrating 100 years, Quality Deer Management, Hunters for the Hungry, Hunters Helping Kids, Outdoor Dreams, and so much more. There will be taxidermists with lots of mounts entered into competition.
Food and beverages will be available. Deer, bear and turkey can be entered in the show on Friday from 9am – 9pm, and on Saturday from 9am – 2:00 pm Deadline. Each deer, bear and turkey entry will be entered into special prize drawings.
New members are encouraged to join, vendors interested in showing at the show, or anyone needing more information can call 540-414-4641.
Third annual Healing Heroes Ride scheduled for October 1
Hundreds of motorcyclists will take to the country roads participating in the third annual Healing Heroes Ride. The 100-mile motorcycle ride through the scenic Piedmont and Shenandoah Valleys is a popular high stakes poker run, which raises money to support Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness in Bluemont. This year’s ride takes place onOctober 1, with a rain date of October 2.
“This is a favorite ride for so many local motorcyclists,” shared Ken Falke, chairman and founder of the Boulder Crest Retreat. “It’s a beautiful scenic ride with great prizes and entertainment and a great way to support the health and wellness of our military veterans and their families.”
The Healing Heroes Ride goes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and begins at either Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax, Virginia or at VFW Post 9760 in Berryville, Virginia and ends at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, Virginia. Hundreds of bikers, spend the day riding through the beautiful scenery, and spending time with fellow riders. The day includes riding, a BBQ, and live entertainment. All of the funds raised are donated to Boulder Crest Retreat to support military members, veterans, and their families.
Since the inaugural ride, over $60,000 has been raised. The entry fee is $30 for a rider and $60 for rider and passenger, and includes a poker hand, breakfast, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Many of the riders and passengers are veterans themselves, and come out annually to support fellow brothers and sisters.
“The excitement within the motorcycle community is building as local riders and riders from as far away as Florida are getting ready to participate in the 3rd Annual Healing Heroes Ride to support BCR,” says ride chairman Jack Causa. “Bikers, many of whom are veterans, are avid supporters of this ride and the great work being done by Boulder Crest Retreat to support our combat veterans and thei families.”
For the second year in a row, John Marshall Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for this ride.
“As a locally owned and managed financial institution, John Marshall Bank participates in a number of worthwhile community events throughout the Washington region,” added Bill Ridenour, president of John Marshall Bank. “This particular event is important to me because I am the father of a wounded Iraq War veteran. I have also been a motorcycle enthusiast for over 45 years. The Healing Heroes Ride provides a unique opportunity for me to enjoy the Northern Virginia countryside with fellow riders while supporting the exceptional programs that Ken Falke and his Boulder Crest staff provide to our warriors and their families.”
More individual and corporate sponsors are being sought for this event. To learn more and to register for the ride, log online to Healing Heroes Ride.
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to speak at VMI, W&L
In February 2017, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will visit the Washington and Lee University School of Law and will give a seated interview, open to the public, at VMI’s Cameron Hall Feb. 1, at 11:15 a.m.
When she was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1993, Ginsburg became only the second female justice, after Sandra Day O’Connor, in the history of the Supreme Court. Along with Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, she is now one of three women serving on the nation’s highest court.
Throughout the course of her professional life, the 83-year-old Ginsburg has been an advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. In the 1970s, she co-founded the women’s rights project at the American Civil Liberties Union and later became the organization’s general counsel. Also during that decade, she became the first woman to earn tenure as a professor at her alma mater, Columbia Law School. At the time she entered academia, at Rutgers University in 1963, there were fewer than 20 female law professors in the United States.
In 1980, President Jimmy Carter appointed Ginsburg to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, a position she held until her appointment to the Supreme Court 13 years later.
In 1999, she won the American Bar Association’s Thurgood Marshall Award for her contributions to gender equality and civil rights.
More information on her visit to Lexington will be available at a later date.
Third annual Healing Heroes Ride scheduled for October 1
Hundreds of motorcyclists will take to the country roads participating in the third annual Healing Heroes Ride. The 100-mile motorcycle ride through the scenic Piedmont and Shenandoah Valleys is a popular high stakes poker run, which raises money to support Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness in Bluemont. This year’s ride takes place on October 1, with a rain date of October 2.
“This is a favorite ride for so many local motorcyclists,” shared Ken Falke, chairman and founder of the Boulder Crest Retreat. “It’s a beautiful scenic ride with great prizes and entertainment and a great way to support the health and wellness of our military veterans and their families.”
The Healing Heroes Ride goes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and begins at either Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax, Virginia or at VFW Post 9760 in Berryville, Virginia and ends at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, Virginia. Hundreds of bikers, spend the day riding through the beautiful scenery, and spending time with fellow riders. The day includes riding, a BBQ, and live entertainment. All of the funds raised are donated to Boulder Crest Retreat to support military members, veterans, and their families.
Since the inaugural ride, over $60,000 has been raised. The entry fee is $30 for a rider and $60 for rider and passenger, and includes a poker hand, breakfast, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Many of the riders and passengers are veterans themselves, and come out annually to support fellow brothers and sisters.
“The excitement within the motorcycle community is building as local riders and riders from as far away as Florida are getting ready to participate in the 3rd Annual Healing Heroes Ride to support BCR,” says ride chairman Jack Causa. “Bikers, many of whom are veterans, are avid supporters of this ride and the great work being done by Boulder Crest Retreat to support our combat veterans and thei families.”
For the second year in a row, John Marshall Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for this ride.
“As a locally owned and managed financial institution, John Marshall Bank participates in a number of worthwhile community events throughout the Washington region,” added Bill Ridenour, president of John Marshall Bank. “This particular event is important to me because I am the father of a wounded Iraq War veteran. I have also been a motorcycle enthusiast for over 45 years. The Healing Heroes Ride provides a unique opportunity for me to enjoy the Northern Virginia countryside with fellow riders while supporting the exceptional programs that Ken Falke and his Boulder Crest staff provide to our warriors and their families.”
More individual and corporate sponsors are being sought for this event. To learn more and to register for the ride, log online to Healing Heroes Ride.
Shenandoah National Park celebrates wilderness
Shenandoah National Park will honor America’s Wilderness heritage during its 16th annual Wilderness Weekend, September 10-11.
This year commemorates the 40thanniversary of Shenandoah’s Wilderness designation. Come celebrate Wilderness by viewing Shenandoah’s Wilderness from Skyline Drive, hiking a Wilderness trail, joining a ranger program, learning how to use traditional tools for Wilderness trail maintenance, completing the Ranger Explorer Wilderness Activity Guide, watching a movie about Wilderness or exploring a visitor center exhibit.
Wilderness Weekend will begin with a kick-off event, Friday September 9th at 7:30 p.m. Join a ranger as they explore Wilderness, its effects on society today and how we can take home some of those Wilderness values after our trip to Shenandoah. This program will take place at the Skyland Amphitheater, mile 42.5, and is scheduled to last 45 minutes.
Special events will take place throughout the weekend. At the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51 on Skyline Drive, there will be a traditional tool display and demonstration from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Shenandoah National Park’s Trail Crew will share their expertise regarding the use of traditional tools in maintaining trails in Wilderness areas. Visitors will be able to try their hands at using these tools and will gain insight into the important role trail maintenance plays in protecting Wilderness for future generations. Rangers will also be on site to help explore the history and significance of Shenandoah’s Wilderness through exhibits and hands-on activities for children. A film,American Values: American Wilderness, narrated by Christopher Reeve, explores Wilderness across the United States. The movie will be shown at 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Byrd Visitor Center auditorium each day.
There will be a four-mile ranger-led hike to Rose River, exploring the unique beauty and the benefits of one of Shenandoah’s Wilderness trails. The Rose River hike is onSaturday, September 10 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Meet the ranger at Fisher’s Gap Overlook, mile 49.3, at 9:00 a.m. Please bring water, a snack and wear appropriate footwear.
Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of hiking trails. We encourage you to bring a map as you explore, but do you truly know how to read it? Do you know how to use a compass? Join a ranger to learn the basics of orienteering at these hands on seminars, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51.
A stove, a water filter, extra socks, flashlight, extra batteries, three gallons of water, a cell phone, shampoo and conditioner. Should I take all this with me on my backpacking trip? Join a Ranger to learn what the ten essential items are you should bring on your Wilderness experience. This hands-on seminar will take place at the Byrd Visitor Center, Saturday from 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., mile 51.
Properly hanging your bear bag, securing your tent at night, keeping your boots on your feet… What do they all have in common? Knots! Join a ranger to learn how to tie some simple knots that will come in handy while exploring Shenandoah’s Wilderness areas. This hands-on seminar will be held Sunday from 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51.
There will be a one hour Search and Rescue Dog Seminar provided by Dogs East onSaturday, September 10from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The presentation will be held at the Big Meadows Amphitheater in the picnic grounds, mile 51. Come learn and observe how these dogs play a critical role in search and rescue operations.
Ranger Explorers (ages 13 and up) are invited to explore Wilderness using the Ranger Explorer Wilderness Activity Guide, “The Wild Side of Shenandoah.” This activity guide, part of an advanced Junior Ranger book series, leads visitors through seven activities that explore the meaning and significance of Shenandoah’s Wilderness. One activity puts the participant in the role of a Wilderness ranger who has to decide how to protect Wilderness values while keeping trails open and safe for hikers. Activity guides are available free of charge at the Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51) and the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6). Participants who complete the seven activities will earn a Wilderness patch.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by park visitor centers for more opportunities to learn about Shenandoah’s Wilderness through exhibits. The highly interactive exhibit at Byrd Visitor Center, “Within a Day’s Drive of Millions,” tells the story of Shenandoah’s establishment, including the significance of Wilderness designation. At the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, visitors can explore the interactive exhibit that provides an excellent orientation to Shenandoah, including a look at Wilderness in Shenandoah.
Shenandoah’s Wilderness was designated by Congress on October 20, 1976. Forty percent of the park, almost 80,000 acres, is Wilderness and represents one of the largest Wilderness areas in the eastern United States. Areas preserved as Wilderness provide sanctuaries for human recreation, habitat for wildlife, sites for research, and reservoirs for clean, free-flowing water. Wilderness areas have been designated on public land across the United States. Today more than 109 million acres of public land are protected in the National Wilderness Preservation System.
There is a $20-per-vehicle entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park which is good for seven days. For more information on Wilderness Weekend and a complete schedule of events, contact Shenandoah National Park at540-999-3500. For more information about Shenandoah National Park and Wilderness, visit the Park’s website at www.nps.gov/shen/
Choose your side with The Rise of Queen Margaret at American Shakespeare Center
The American Shakespeare Center will open the final production of its Summer/Fall Season on September 9. The Rise of Queen Margaret (Henry VI, Part 2) is a wild carnival of avarice and the glorious second installment of the Wars of the Roses tetralogy. The ASC will continue the Wars of the Roses tetralogy over the next two artistic years with The Fall of King (Henry VI,Part 3) in 2017 and Richard III in 2018.
Young King Henry’s fierce and ambitious queen, Margaret of Anjou, leads the House of Lancaster in brutal civil wars against the House of York and its would-be-king, Richard, Duke of York. Witchcraft, demons, murders, and the spectacular Jack Cade rebellion all conspire to make this play unforgettable. The Rise of Queen Margaret continues the story of England’s civil wars begun in last year’s Shakespeare’s Joan of Arc (Henry VI, Part 1). ASC Artistic Director and Margaret Director Jim Warren says “Margaret is no less a warrior than last year’s Joan; but in this play she fights her political battles with schemes and dreams rather than a sword. Smart, ruthless, and cunning, she’s a powerful Queen you can love or hate.”
The Rise of Queen Margaret is the potboiler of the Wars of the Roses series, with rising tensions that ultimately consume the entire country. Allison Glenzer returns as Queen Margaret, as does Patrick Earl as the Duke of Suffolk. Bitter rivalries and shifting allegiances make this chapter a politically-charged powerhouse perfectly suited for this election year.
Margaret joins three other productions currently playing in rotating repertory at the Blackfriars Playhouse as part of the 2016 Summer/Fall Season. Shakespeare’s heartwarming comedy Twelfth Night, his enthralling family drama King Lear, and the rock’n’roll epic Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson will continue playing alongside Margaret through November.
Act fast to guarantee your seat. Reserved tickets for The Rise of Queen Margaret (Henry VI, Part 2) can be purchased by calling 1.877.Much.Ado, visiting the Blackfriars Playhouse Box Office on 10 South Market Street in Staunton, or logging online to AmericanShakespeareCenter.com. Ticket prices start at $26. Pay What You Will performances are on September 7 and 9. Residents of Staunton, Waynesboro or Augusta County can take advantage of $18 local rush tickets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Student, Senior, Military, and AAA discounts are available.
What you will see at beautiful Signal Knob
Harrisonburg is surrounded in stunning natural beauty that will leave you staring in awe even on ground level. If you want to experience even more enchanting views of the region, a trek up Signal Knob is in order! This 10-mile hike can be a bit strenuous, but once you reach the outlook points, there will be no doubt that the journey was worth it. Here are just a few of the jaw-dropping sights you will encounter during your Signal Knob hike.
A Brief History of Signal Knob
Signal Knob was named during the Civil War, as both Confederate and Union soldiers used the 2,106 ft. elevation as an outlook point. From 1862 to 1864, Confederate Signal Corps controlled the outlook until Union troops took control of the peak.
The Best Signal Knob Outlook Points
Buzzard Rock Overlook
This will be the first outlook you reach during the trek, only 1 ½ miles in. Have your camera ready for incredible photo opportunities!
Fort Valley Vista
This view comes shortly after your encounter with Buzzard Rock Overlook. It comes with awe-inspiring mountain scenery and is especially beautiful in the fall.
The Lookout
This is the grand finale you’ve been working for during your ascent! From the top of Signal Knob, you’ll enjoy views of the Shenandoah Valley and Strasburg. This is the perfect place to stop for a rest, feast on a packed lunch, or take group pictures.
Check Out These Strasburg Activities
Once you have descended from your hike, head into the town of Strasburg for these nearby activities:
Strasburg Museum
Strasburg’s history dates all the way back to the 1730s, before America was even considered a nation. At the Strasburg Museum, you’ll discover amazing historical artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Gaze upon Civil War articles, Native American artifacts, historic photographs, and an old country store display. It’s a great way to experience what life was like in Virginia many years ago.
Woodbine Farm Market
If your hike up Signal Knob worked up an appetite, this is the stop for you! The Woodbine Farm has been maintained by the same family for over 100 years. In 1998, the farm was designated as a “Century Farm” by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the market was added in 2006. You can shop for fresh farm grown fruits, homemade jellies, apple butter, cheeses, baskets, and more!
Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park
History buffs will love this attraction! Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park is the centerpiece of the Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation and tells the story of the 1864 Valley Campaign. You’ll find outdoor walking trails that wind through preserved earthworks that recall the events during the Federal Troops’ occupation. There is also a museum that boasts artifacts from the time of war and a fully stocked gift shop.
Well-Deserved Relaxation at By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages
Located in Harrisonburg, By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages is the perfect destination for your Shenandoah Valley getaway. Our historic inn offers both a romantic atmosphere, paired with modern amenities that keep our guests coming back again and again. Stay in our romantic Luxury Cottages, Manor House Suites, or Spring Water Cottage Suites and indulge in a complimentarygourmet breakfast each morning. Download our free Shenandoah Valley vacation guide, and call us today (540) 801-0430 to book your next getaway at By the Side of the Road.
Muttvile Comix comes to Waynesboro
Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix brings pet shelter dogs turned performers to theWayneTheatre/Ross Performing Arts Center on Thursday, September 22, with two shows, at 12:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The first show at 12:30 p.m. is offered as part of our Arts Education programming. The show is open to the public. Tickets are only $7.50 for the matinee performance.
The 7 p.m. show tickets are $15 per person. Meet and greets and photo ops with the dogs are available after the show.
Afternoon Tea at the Anne Hathaway Cottage
Afternoon Tea at the Anne Hathaway Cottage in Staunton with local author Mollie Cox Bryan and her just released “Death among the Doilies” at 3pm.
Reservations include an autographed copy of “Death among the Doilies“, authentic English Afternoon Tea, book talk/reading from the author & chance for door prizes.
Reservation cost $35.
Space is limited so reserve your space online at www.stonesoupbooks.net or by calling 540-943-0084.
Campsite Cook-Off
The Inaugural Campsite Cook-off will be held Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18 at Douthat State Park in Millboro. The event will begin at 11 a.m. each day.
Enjoy a weekend of sampling bbg, live music, and craft beer from Devils Backbone Brewery of Lexington, VA. Spectators will be able to enjoy samples from each of the 22 competing teams if they wish. Concessions available from the Douthat State Park Environmental Education Group. Entrance fee is $5 per person however, ages 10 and under enter free.
There is no parking fee required for guests attending the event. Craft beer tickets will be sold on Saturday for $3 per ticket to adults ages 21 and older.
Big Game Contest at Augusta Expo
The 77th Western Regional & State Big Game Contest will be held at the Augusta Expo Event Center in Fishersville.
There will be a full house of vendors with bows, guns, knives, ATVs, campers, trucks, woodcrafters, hunting gear, fishing gear, T-shirts, turkey calls, Canyon coolers, wildlife photography, featured artist Bruce Dellinger, search & rescue dogs and more.
The Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, celebrating 100 years, Quality Deer Management, Hunters for the Hungry, Hunters Helping Kids, Outdoor Dreams, and so much more. There will be taxidermists with lots of mounts entered into competition.
Food and beverages will be available. Deer, bear and turkey can be entered in the show on Friday from 9am – 9pm, and on Saturday from 9am – 2:00 pm Deadline. Each deer, bear and turkey entry will be entered into special prize drawings.
New members are encouraged to join, vendors interested in showing at the show, or anyone needing more information can call 540-414-4641.
Third annual Healing Heroes Ride scheduled for October 1
Hundreds of motorcyclists will take to the country roads participating in the third annual Healing Heroes Ride. The 100-mile motorcycle ride through the scenic Piedmont and Shenandoah Valleys is a popular high stakes poker run, which raises money to support Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness in Bluemont. This year’s ride takes place onOctober 1, with a rain date of October 2.
“This is a favorite ride for so many local motorcyclists,” shared Ken Falke, chairman and founder of the Boulder Crest Retreat. “It’s a beautiful scenic ride with great prizes and entertainment and a great way to support the health and wellness of our military veterans and their families.”
The Healing Heroes Ride goes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and begins at either Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax, Virginia or at VFW Post 9760 in Berryville, Virginia and ends at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, Virginia. Hundreds of bikers, spend the day riding through the beautiful scenery, and spending time with fellow riders. The day includes riding, a BBQ, and live entertainment. All of the funds raised are donated to Boulder Crest Retreat to support military members, veterans, and their families.
Since the inaugural ride, over $60,000 has been raised. The entry fee is $30 for a rider and $60 for rider and passenger, and includes a poker hand, breakfast, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Many of the riders and passengers are veterans themselves, and come out annually to support fellow brothers and sisters.
“The excitement within the motorcycle community is building as local riders and riders from as far away as Florida are getting ready to participate in the 3rd Annual Healing Heroes Ride to support BCR,” says ride chairman Jack Causa. “Bikers, many of whom are veterans, are avid supporters of this ride and the great work being done by Boulder Crest Retreat to support our combat veterans and thei families.”
For the second year in a row, John Marshall Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for this ride.
“As a locally owned and managed financial institution, John Marshall Bank participates in a number of worthwhile community events throughout the Washington region,” added Bill Ridenour, president of John Marshall Bank. “This particular event is important to me because I am the father of a wounded Iraq War veteran. I have also been a motorcycle enthusiast for over 45 years. The Healing Heroes Ride provides a unique opportunity for me to enjoy the Northern Virginia countryside with fellow riders while supporting the exceptional programs that Ken Falke and his Boulder Crest staff provide to our warriors and their families.”
More individual and corporate sponsors are being sought for this event. To learn more and to register for the ride, log online to Healing Heroes Ride.
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to speak at VMI, W&L
In February 2017, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will visit the Washington and Lee University School of Law and will give a seated interview, open to the public, at VMI’s Cameron Hall Feb. 1, at 11:15 a.m.
When she was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1993, Ginsburg became only the second female justice, after Sandra Day O’Connor, in the history of the Supreme Court. Along with Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, she is now one of three women serving on the nation’s highest court.
Throughout the course of her professional life, the 83-year-old Ginsburg has been an advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. In the 1970s, she co-founded the women’s rights project at the American Civil Liberties Union and later became the organization’s general counsel. Also during that decade, she became the first woman to earn tenure as a professor at her alma mater, Columbia Law School. At the time she entered academia, at Rutgers University in 1963, there were fewer than 20 female law professors in the United States.
In 1980, President Jimmy Carter appointed Ginsburg to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, a position she held until her appointment to the Supreme Court 13 years later.
In 1999, she won the American Bar Association’s Thurgood Marshall Award for her contributions to gender equality and civil rights.
More information on her visit to Lexington will be available at a later date.
Third annual Healing Heroes Ride scheduled for October 1
Hundreds of motorcyclists will take to the country roads participating in the third annual Healing Heroes Ride. The 100-mile motorcycle ride through the scenic Piedmont and Shenandoah Valleys is a popular high stakes poker run, which raises money to support Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness in Bluemont. This year’s ride takes place on October 1, with a rain date of October 2.
“This is a favorite ride for so many local motorcyclists,” shared Ken Falke, chairman and founder of the Boulder Crest Retreat. “It’s a beautiful scenic ride with great prizes and entertainment and a great way to support the health and wellness of our military veterans and their families.”
The Healing Heroes Ride goes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and begins at either Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax, Virginia or at VFW Post 9760 in Berryville, Virginia and ends at Boulder Crest Retreat in Bluemont, Virginia. Hundreds of bikers, spend the day riding through the beautiful scenery, and spending time with fellow riders. The day includes riding, a BBQ, and live entertainment. All of the funds raised are donated to Boulder Crest Retreat to support military members, veterans, and their families.
Since the inaugural ride, over $60,000 has been raised. The entry fee is $30 for a rider and $60 for rider and passenger, and includes a poker hand, breakfast, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Many of the riders and passengers are veterans themselves, and come out annually to support fellow brothers and sisters.
“The excitement within the motorcycle community is building as local riders and riders from as far away as Florida are getting ready to participate in the 3rd Annual Healing Heroes Ride to support BCR,” says ride chairman Jack Causa. “Bikers, many of whom are veterans, are avid supporters of this ride and the great work being done by Boulder Crest Retreat to support our combat veterans and thei families.”
For the second year in a row, John Marshall Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for this ride.
“As a locally owned and managed financial institution, John Marshall Bank participates in a number of worthwhile community events throughout the Washington region,” added Bill Ridenour, president of John Marshall Bank. “This particular event is important to me because I am the father of a wounded Iraq War veteran. I have also been a motorcycle enthusiast for over 45 years. The Healing Heroes Ride provides a unique opportunity for me to enjoy the Northern Virginia countryside with fellow riders while supporting the exceptional programs that Ken Falke and his Boulder Crest staff provide to our warriors and their families.”
More individual and corporate sponsors are being sought for this event. To learn more and to register for the ride, log online to Healing Heroes Ride.
Shenandoah National Park celebrates wilderness
Shenandoah National Park will honor America’s Wilderness heritage during its 16th annual Wilderness Weekend, September 10-11.
This year commemorates the 40thanniversary of Shenandoah’s Wilderness designation. Come celebrate Wilderness by viewing Shenandoah’s Wilderness from Skyline Drive, hiking a Wilderness trail, joining a ranger program, learning how to use traditional tools for Wilderness trail maintenance, completing the Ranger Explorer Wilderness Activity Guide, watching a movie about Wilderness or exploring a visitor center exhibit.
Wilderness Weekend will begin with a kick-off event, Friday September 9th at 7:30 p.m. Join a ranger as they explore Wilderness, its effects on society today and how we can take home some of those Wilderness values after our trip to Shenandoah. This program will take place at the Skyland Amphitheater, mile 42.5, and is scheduled to last 45 minutes.
Special events will take place throughout the weekend. At the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51 on Skyline Drive, there will be a traditional tool display and demonstration from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Shenandoah National Park’s Trail Crew will share their expertise regarding the use of traditional tools in maintaining trails in Wilderness areas. Visitors will be able to try their hands at using these tools and will gain insight into the important role trail maintenance plays in protecting Wilderness for future generations. Rangers will also be on site to help explore the history and significance of Shenandoah’s Wilderness through exhibits and hands-on activities for children. A film,American Values: American Wilderness, narrated by Christopher Reeve, explores Wilderness across the United States. The movie will be shown at 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Byrd Visitor Center auditorium each day.
There will be a four-mile ranger-led hike to Rose River, exploring the unique beauty and the benefits of one of Shenandoah’s Wilderness trails. The Rose River hike is onSaturday, September 10 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Meet the ranger at Fisher’s Gap Overlook, mile 49.3, at 9:00 a.m. Please bring water, a snack and wear appropriate footwear.
Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of hiking trails. We encourage you to bring a map as you explore, but do you truly know how to read it? Do you know how to use a compass? Join a ranger to learn the basics of orienteering at these hands on seminars, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51.
A stove, a water filter, extra socks, flashlight, extra batteries, three gallons of water, a cell phone, shampoo and conditioner. Should I take all this with me on my backpacking trip? Join a Ranger to learn what the ten essential items are you should bring on your Wilderness experience. This hands-on seminar will take place at the Byrd Visitor Center, Saturday from 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., mile 51.
Properly hanging your bear bag, securing your tent at night, keeping your boots on your feet… What do they all have in common? Knots! Join a ranger to learn how to tie some simple knots that will come in handy while exploring Shenandoah’s Wilderness areas. This hands-on seminar will be held Sunday from 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Byrd Visitor Center, mile 51.
There will be a one hour Search and Rescue Dog Seminar provided by Dogs East onSaturday, September 10from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The presentation will be held at the Big Meadows Amphitheater in the picnic grounds, mile 51. Come learn and observe how these dogs play a critical role in search and rescue operations.
Ranger Explorers (ages 13 and up) are invited to explore Wilderness using the Ranger Explorer Wilderness Activity Guide, “The Wild Side of Shenandoah.” This activity guide, part of an advanced Junior Ranger book series, leads visitors through seven activities that explore the meaning and significance of Shenandoah’s Wilderness. One activity puts the participant in the role of a Wilderness ranger who has to decide how to protect Wilderness values while keeping trails open and safe for hikers. Activity guides are available free of charge at the Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51) and the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6). Participants who complete the seven activities will earn a Wilderness patch.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by park visitor centers for more opportunities to learn about Shenandoah’s Wilderness through exhibits. The highly interactive exhibit at Byrd Visitor Center, “Within a Day’s Drive of Millions,” tells the story of Shenandoah’s establishment, including the significance of Wilderness designation. At the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, visitors can explore the interactive exhibit that provides an excellent orientation to Shenandoah, including a look at Wilderness in Shenandoah.
Shenandoah’s Wilderness was designated by Congress on October 20, 1976. Forty percent of the park, almost 80,000 acres, is Wilderness and represents one of the largest Wilderness areas in the eastern United States. Areas preserved as Wilderness provide sanctuaries for human recreation, habitat for wildlife, sites for research, and reservoirs for clean, free-flowing water. Wilderness areas have been designated on public land across the United States. Today more than 109 million acres of public land are protected in the National Wilderness Preservation System.
There is a $20-per-vehicle entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park which is good for seven days. For more information on Wilderness Weekend and a complete schedule of events, contact Shenandoah National Park at540-999-3500. For more information about Shenandoah National Park and Wilderness, visit the Park’s website at www.nps.gov/shen/
Choose your side with The Rise of Queen Margaret at American Shakespeare Center
The American Shakespeare Center will open the final production of its Summer/Fall Season on September 9. The Rise of Queen Margaret (Henry VI, Part 2) is a wild carnival of avarice and the glorious second installment of the Wars of the Roses tetralogy. The ASC will continue the Wars of the Roses tetralogy over the next two artistic years with The Fall of King (Henry VI,Part 3) in 2017 and Richard III in 2018.
Young King Henry’s fierce and ambitious queen, Margaret of Anjou, leads the House of Lancaster in brutal civil wars against the House of York and its would-be-king, Richard, Duke of York. Witchcraft, demons, murders, and the spectacular Jack Cade rebellion all conspire to make this play unforgettable. The Rise of Queen Margaret continues the story of England’s civil wars begun in last year’s Shakespeare’s Joan of Arc (Henry VI, Part 1). ASC Artistic Director and Margaret Director Jim Warren says “Margaret is no less a warrior than last year’s Joan; but in this play she fights her political battles with schemes and dreams rather than a sword. Smart, ruthless, and cunning, she’s a powerful Queen you can love or hate.”
The Rise of Queen Margaret is the potboiler of the Wars of the Roses series, with rising tensions that ultimately consume the entire country. Allison Glenzer returns as Queen Margaret, as does Patrick Earl as the Duke of Suffolk. Bitter rivalries and shifting allegiances make this chapter a politically-charged powerhouse perfectly suited for this election year.
Margaret joins three other productions currently playing in rotating repertory at the Blackfriars Playhouse as part of the 2016 Summer/Fall Season. Shakespeare’s heartwarming comedy Twelfth Night, his enthralling family drama King Lear, and the rock’n’roll epic Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson will continue playing alongside Margaret through November.
Act fast to guarantee your seat. Reserved tickets for The Rise of Queen Margaret (Henry VI, Part 2) can be purchased by calling 1.877.Much.Ado, visiting the Blackfriars Playhouse Box Office on 10 South Market Street in Staunton, or logging online to AmericanShakespeareCenter.com. Ticket prices start at $26. Pay What You Will performances are on September 7 and 9. Residents of Staunton, Waynesboro or Augusta County can take advantage of $18 local rush tickets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Student, Senior, Military, and AAA discounts are available.
What you will see at beautiful Signal Knob
Harrisonburg is surrounded in stunning natural beauty that will leave you staring in awe even on ground level. If you want to experience even more enchanting views of the region, a trek up Signal Knob is in order! This 10-mile hike can be a bit strenuous, but once you reach the outlook points, there will be no doubt that the journey was worth it. Here are just a few of the jaw-dropping sights you will encounter during your Signal Knob hike.
A Brief History of Signal Knob
Signal Knob was named during the Civil War, as both Confederate and Union soldiers used the 2,106 ft. elevation as an outlook point. From 1862 to 1864, Confederate Signal Corps controlled the outlook until Union troops took control of the peak.
The Best Signal Knob Outlook Points
Buzzard Rock Overlook
This will be the first outlook you reach during the trek, only 1 ½ miles in. Have your camera ready for incredible photo opportunities!
Fort Valley Vista
This view comes shortly after your encounter with Buzzard Rock Overlook. It comes with awe-inspiring mountain scenery and is especially beautiful in the fall.
The Lookout
This is the grand finale you’ve been working for during your ascent! From the top of Signal Knob, you’ll enjoy views of the Shenandoah Valley and Strasburg. This is the perfect place to stop for a rest, feast on a packed lunch, or take group pictures.
Check Out These Strasburg Activities
Once you have descended from your hike, head into the town of Strasburg for these nearby activities:
Strasburg Museum
Strasburg’s history dates all the way back to the 1730s, before America was even considered a nation. At the Strasburg Museum, you’ll discover amazing historical artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Gaze upon Civil War articles, Native American artifacts, historic photographs, and an old country store display. It’s a great way to experience what life was like in Virginia many years ago.
Woodbine Farm Market
If your hike up Signal Knob worked up an appetite, this is the stop for you! The Woodbine Farm has been maintained by the same family for over 100 years. In 1998, the farm was designated as a “Century Farm” by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the market was added in 2006. You can shop for fresh farm grown fruits, homemade jellies, apple butter, cheeses, baskets, and more!
Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park
History buffs will love this attraction! Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park is the centerpiece of the Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation and tells the story of the 1864 Valley Campaign. You’ll find outdoor walking trails that wind through preserved earthworks that recall the events during the Federal Troops’ occupation. There is also a museum that boasts artifacts from the time of war and a fully stocked gift shop.
Well-Deserved Relaxation at By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages
Located in Harrisonburg, By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages is the perfect destination for your Shenandoah Valley getaway. Our historic inn offers both a romantic atmosphere, paired with modern amenities that keep our guests coming back again and again. Stay in our romantic Luxury Cottages, Manor House Suites, or Spring Water Cottage Suites and indulge in a complimentarygourmet breakfast each morning. Download our free Shenandoah Valley vacation guide, and call us today (540) 801-0430 to book your next getaway at By the Side of the Road.