Smith Mountain Laker Magazine NovDec2011

AKERSMITH MOUNTAIN

SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM

magazine

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

2011

GUIDEGIFT

BEHIND THE SCENES OF ‘LAKE EFFECTS’OUR 10 MOST MEMORABLE GARDENING FEATURES

SML’S POLAR SKI TRADITION • HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING TIPS

2 November • December 2011 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER

SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM 3

540-719-4247 westlakesalonandspa.com

&Spa Salon

GIVE THE GIFT OF

&Spa Salon

GIVE THE GIFT OF

&Spa Salon

GIVE THE GIFT OF

Westlake Towne Center540-721-3453

www.smithmountainbuilding.com

VISIT OUR WINDOW AND DOOR SHOWROOM

HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE.

Proudly serving SML community &area builders for 25 years

Qualified professionals with the knowledge to help with that home improvement project or building your dream home.

Gift cards to Westlake Cinema can be in any amount up to $100. Good for tickets or

concessions. Great for employee rewards at holiday parties!

Give the gift of entertainment!

Westlake Towne Center Annual SML Tree Lighting Ceremony& Open House: Dec. 1 from 5:30-7:30pm.

Clubhouse: 540.721.3845 • Pro Shop: 540.721.4214www.golfthewestlake.com

Having a hard time finding the perfect gift for that golfer in your life? Stop by and see

what we have to offer. Gift certificates are also available and are good

for proshop merchandise, range and golf fees.

FIND THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT FOR YOUR GOLFER.

Shop Local This Holiday Season! (Nov. 25 “Black Friday”-Dec. 22) Spend $35 At Any Participating Westlake Towne Center Retail Business And Get TWo FRee Movie TiCkeTS To Westlake Cinema!


Building Healthy SmilesYES! We are here for you! We provide Complete Care for you and your family. Specialty services are our routine. We place and restore Dental Implants which means that you won’t need to travel to other dental specialists for them. Our list of services is too long to print, so please call or stop by. We’d love to meet you.

Offering a full range of services to the SML community for 21 years.

Located at Westlake next to Dairy Queen • Scruggs Rd., Moneta, VA

Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantologists

New PatIeNts

are welCome

BryaN G. sICher, DmD 540-721-3800

www.lakedentist.com


©2011, An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. is a service mark of the Prudential Insurance Company of America. Equal Housing Opportunity.


For quality window replacement done right,trust Capps Home Building Center.

Contact us for your free, no-obligation estimate.No Pressure, No Hassles, just great windows and great experience, Guaranteed!

Locally owned &operated for over

30 years!

540-721-2276w w w . s h o p c a p p s . c o m

Andersen®

The most trusted namein windows and doors


ContentsSmith Mountain Laker Magazine | November/December 2011

AKERSMITH MOUNTAIN

SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM

magazine

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

2011

GUIDEGIFT

BEHIND THE SCENES OF ‘LAKE EFFECTS’OUR 10 MOST MEMORABLE GARDENING FEATURES

SML’S POLAR SKI TRADITION • HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING TIPS

O N T H E C O V E R

We offer even more ways to love the lake! smithmountainlake.com • SML Map • Laker Weekly • facebook.com/LakerMagazine

8 Editor’s Note

11 Take the Laker With You

13 BestofSMLAwards• It’s time to vote!

Shorelines14 LakeHomes• After years of living

off water, John and Mary Boyer finally succumbed to the lure of the lake

25 Lake&Garden• A look back at our most memorable features of the past decade

34 Art & Culture• Favorite behind-the-scenes stories from the producers of “Lake Effects”

43 Tradition• The annual Polar Bear Ski Day is a distinctly SML New Year’s Day event

Special Section49 HolidayGiftGuide• Great ideas available

at Smith Mountain Lake-area merchants

Savor63 Restaurants• Find out the many reasons

business is booming at Homestead Creamery

69 Entertaining • Mariners Landing residents Jim and Barbara Ottinger are crazy about Christmas

Social Seen75 Out&About• At the Antique & Classic

Boat Show, SML Wine Festival and screening of the film “Lake Effects”

78 Calendar• Best bets for eventsin November and December

80 Laker Map • SML map and advertiser index

Laker Real EstateOn the Flip • Turn your Laker over to find homes

for sale in and around the lake region

D E P A R T M E N T S

43

14

6969

A sprig of fresh holly complements a simple holiday gift

box. Styling assistance provided by Turner's Building, Inc. and

Haywood’s Jewelers at Westlake Towne Center.

Photography by Huong Fralin


Editor Andie Gibson

Creative Director Matt Brown

Copy Editor Elizabeth Hock

Photographer Huong Fralin

Graphic Designer Janette Saviano

Sales Manager Mark Mast

Sales Executive Tim Dye

©2011 Times-World LLC, The Smith Mountain Laker Magazine is a community publication solely owned by Times-World LLC. It is published for the residents of Smith Mountain Lake and is subject to Times-World LLC editorial policies. The views and opinions are those of the authors. The opinions expressed, unless otherwise noted, should not be construed to be those of Times-World LLC or its affiliates. Lists are for reference only and do not necessarily imply approbation. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from Times-World LLC. All rights reserved. Real Estate advertised in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968.

AKERSMITH MOUNTAIN

magazine

CONTRIBUTORS

STAFF

PhotographersJennifer Chaconas Catriona Tudor Erler

Micah GaudioPete Luce

Frances PrattTed Pratt • Rick Ries

WritersCatriona Tudor Erler

Ferne HaleJerry Hale

Amy HanekGordon KendallLindsey Wagnon

Published by Laker Media272 Westlake Road, Suite 1, Hardy, VA 24101

Phone: 540.721.4675 • Fax: 540.721.4627smithmountainlake.com

CONTACT INFORMATIONAdvertising 540.721.4675, ext. 409

[email protected]

Editorial 540.721.4675, ext. [email protected]

Subscriptions 540.721.4675, ext. [email protected]

Calendar items [email protected]

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 DEADLINESAdvertising scheduling and materials Nov. 25

Calendar submissions Dec. 1

Laker founding publisher Micah Gaudio purchased a Santa costume and pimped his PWC for the November/December 2005 cover. Another concept involved him wakeboarding in the get-up, but it didn’t hold water (the idea or the costume).

From the Archives

editor’sNovember/December 2011note

You may have heard we’ve gone through some changes at Laker Media in recent months. Mark Vosskamp, who served as publisher for more than four years, left in September to become the chief financial officer for a non-profit organization in Lynchburg. And while some restructuring has occurred with our parent company, Times-World Corp. (publisher of The Roanoke Times), you can rest assured one thing hasn’t changed — Laker Media’s committment to outstanding coverage of life at Smith Mountain Lake. Laker Magazine will continue

to focus on lifestyle and entertainment at SML while Laker Weekly publishes the best in community news, events and features. You can also get your lake fix online through our website, smithmountainlake.com, and Facebook pages for the magazine and Weekly. In the spring, we’ll produce the SML Visitor Information Map, Laker Out & About (a guide to area dining, shopping and recreation options) and the SML Visitor and Newcomer Guide, the official publication of the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce. Community media sales manager Mark Mast (pictured above with me at Laker Media’s Sept. 15 SML Chamber Business After Hours), will oversee all of Laker Media’s print and digital sales initiatives. If you have questions or are interested in advertising, I encourage you to give Mark a call. We also welcome your feedback and story suggestions. Please e-mail them to [email protected].

Andie Gibson, Editor

P.S. Laker Media will continue to operate from our new offices at Westlake Professional Park (behind Kroger).

Tim JanetteMark

Elizabeth HuongMattAndie




Andrew Maus, 12, traveled in July to England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland as a student ambassador for People to People, an organization offering educational opportunities for children to explore different cultures. In addition to London’s Buckingham Palace (in background), Andrew said he enjoyed visiting numerous castles, including Blarney Castle in Ireland where he kissed the famed Blarney Stone. Andrew lives in Moneta with his parents, Rob and Jenn Maus.

travels | TAKE THE LAKER WITH YOU

Send Us Your Photo! Take the Laker with you on your next adventure and send us your photo with a famous landmark, unusual attraction or stunning scenery in the background. And if you run into someone famous, be sure to include them in the fun. E-mail to [email protected] or send to 272 Westlake Rd., Suite 1, Moneta, VA 24121. Don’t forget to leave your magazine behind so others can discoverSmith Mountain Lake!

View more photos at smithmountainlake.comWest Virginia

In July, Tandy and Carol Amburgey of Vinton volunteered at the Greenbrier Classic, a PGA Tour event played at The Greenbrier, a resort in White Sulpher Springs, W.Va. Pictured in front of the offical scoreboard, the couple said they enjoyed getting up close and personal with so many golfing greats. “The Greenbrier is a beautiful and gracious place,” Carol said.

EgyptConnie and Bob LeMasters of Huddleston made a 31-day trip in the spring to Israel, Jordan and Egypt where they posed for this photo in front of the Great Sphinx of Giza. “Our favorite part of the experience was being able to visit such old areas of history and imagine how life must have been then,” Bob said. “We’re talking about 4,000 BC at some sites!”

Czech RepublicRon and Daphne Jamison of Wirtz took the Laker on a European riverboat cruise in June. The couple also spent several days in the Czech Republic where a fellow traveler took this photo in front of the Prague Orloj, an astronomical clock mounted on the southern wall of Old Town City Hall. Built in 1410, it is the world’s only working astronomical clock.

PittsburghKaren Burroughs of Moneta made her yearly pilgrimage in June to see a Pittsburgh Pirates game at PNC Park. The lifelong fan is pictured in front of a statue of former outfielder Roberto Clemente, a Hall of Famer who was killed in a plane crash in 1972. “The shirt I have on is from the 1970s and I would not go to a game without having it on,” Burroughs said.


Managing Your Risk is More Important Now Than Ever

Warren Buffet once said, “Predicting rain doesn’t count; building arks does.” The Meridian Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney can help you manage risk while planning for the future. We help you identify strategies to achieve the personal and financial goals that are most important to you and help you manage the risks you may encounter along the way.

Call us today to get started.

© 2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. NY CS 6488998 10/10


A Morgan Stanley Company

N. Edward Link, Jr. Michael B. Kemp Senior Vice President—Wealth Management Senior Vice President—Wealth Management Portfolio Manager Portfolio Manager Financial Planning Specialist Financial Planning Specialist

Cynthia H. Shively Judith A. Honaker Financial Advisor Registered Client Service Associate Financial Planning Associate

Jodie S. Wertz Client Service Associate

213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600 Roanoke, VA 24011 540-345-1555 • 888-449-4449 www.fc.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb

Left to right: Cynthia H. Shively, Jodie S. Wertz, Michael B. Kemp, Judith A. Honaker and N. Edward Link, Jr.









213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600 Roanoke, VA 24011 540-345-1555 • 888-449-4449 http://fa.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb/










213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600 Roanoke, VA 24011 540-345-1555 • 888-449-4449 http://fa.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb/


N. Edward Link, Jr.Senior Vice PresidentPortfolio ManagerFinancial Planning Specialist

Cynthia H. ShivelyFinancial AdvisorFinancial Planning Associate

Jodie S. WertzClient Service Associate

Michael B. KempSenior Vice PresidentPortfolio ManagerFinancial Planning Specialist

Judith A. HonakerRegistered Client Service Associate


213 South Jefferson Street, Suite 1600 • Roanoke, VA 24011540-345-1555 • 888-449-4449

http://fa.smithbarney.com/meridiangroupsb/




Valid names and addresses must filled out in order for the ballot to be counted. One entry per person. All ballots must be completed online and have at least 10 categories completed. Voting ends at noon on Dec. 5, 2011. Prize winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entries. Employees and agents of Times-World LLC are not eligible to win. For more information, contact Laker Media at 540.721.4675, ext. 402.

Visit smithmountainlake.com/best to cast votes for your SML favorites in the categories of Business, Food and Drink and Lifestyle. Award winners will be published in our January/February 2012 issue.

Five lucky voters will be drawn at random to win one of five $100 gift certificates from Jonathan’s Restaurant, Capps Home Building Center, The Landing Restaurant, Haywood's Jewelers-Westlake or The Little Gallery.

All ballots must be cast by noon on Dec. 5. You’ve already done the judging. All you have to do is vote. Log on now!

smithmountainlake.com/best

Win a PRiZE!

$100

11TH ANNUAL

AWARDS • 2012

BUSinESSNew Business • Customer ServiceAuto Service • Marina • Dock BuilderHome Decor Store or Service Interior DesignerLandscaping and Lawn CareClothing BoutiqueHair Salon or StylistSkin Care or Day SpaManicure/Pedicure • Jewelry StoreGift Shop • Pet Care • Place to Buy Art*

Food & dRinkChef • Restaurant Service*Breakfast • Lunch • BuffetSandwich • Burger • Pizza*Steak • Seafood • DessertsInternational Cuisine • Outdoor DiningPlace to Come by BoatBar Atmosphere • CocktailWine Selection

LiFESTYLEPlace to Stay OvernightPlace to Take a VisitorKid/Family Outing • Local BandPlace to Hear Live MusicPrivate Golf CoursePublic Golf Course

*New category for 2012

Pick ThE BEST oF...

Jonathan’sRESTAURANT


shorelines | LAKE HOMES

13Lucky


13 Story by Ferne Hale PHotograPHy by Huong Fralin

Some people associate the number 13 with bad luck, but not John and Mary Boyer. In 2008, the couple was living in their 12th home, a 12,000-square-foot mansion near Huddleston with a storied history. The Boyers had purchased the off-water home five years prior and spent much time, effort and money renovating it. In 2005, it was featured on the SML Charity Home Tour. But the lure of the lake was calling and the couple set out to find the ideal waterfront lot on which to build lucky No. 13.They found it on Craddock Creek, less than two miles away.


ABOVE Homeowners John and Mary Boyer

TOP LEFT The Boyers’ home on Craddock Creek features a stone exterior and striking entry and garage doors.

TOP RIGHT Among the dramatic accents in the dining room is a majestic chandelier.


“This is our 13th house, but it’s the first one we’ve built,” said Mary Boyer, who scoured the Internet for home plans. After much discernment, the couple chose a plan for an elegant, stately home to sit atop the sloped lot with 330 feet of waterfront. “We didn’t expect that we’d love it as much as we do,” said Mary, who oversaw the building process. In addition, in lieu of working with a professional decorator, she chose to personally purchase nearly everything for the home’s interior. Mention the words “closeout” or “clearance” and Mary’s eyes light up. While on a trip to a friend’s beach house, she discovered a lighting store with a going-out-of-business sign where she bought the beautiful chandelier that hangs majestically in the dining room. She spent less than $500 for the fixture, originally priced at $3,000. Mary also collected granite sinks in cabinets, toilets, a Jacuzzi tub — all sorts of useful house components, which she stowed away in the large RV shed the couple had built on the property. She kept detailed notes on every item and what room she hoped to place it in when the house was completed. The chandelier is just one of many dramatic accents in the dining room. There is also a wall of striking Pella windows as well as a distinctive barrel ceiling which, at just 12 feet in height, is the lowest on the home’s main level.

“This is our 13th house, but it’s the first one we’ve ever built. ... We didn’t expect to love it as much as we do."

Mary Boyer


PD&M, General Contractors

540-297-404516575 Moneta Road • www.PDandM.com

save green

• Lower utility bills.

• Improved indoor air quality.

• Improved resale value.

• Nominated for EarthCraft Builder of the Year.

build green

BUILDING BASICSYear Built 2009-2010

Square Footage 9,500

Design Style Hillside walkout

Architect Donald A. Gardner Architects, Inc.

Plan Heatherstone

Interior Design Mary Boyer, homeowner

Landscape Design and Installation Westlake Nursery


Facing the lake is a lovely great room that includes one of the home’s four fireplaces. Blinds installed within the windows regulate sun exposure, but the couple prefers to keep them open whenever possible. “You never get tired of looking at this lake view,” John said. Mary said her favorite room is the kitchen, which features leather-textured granite countertops in “brushed brunella” on the two islands — one used as a work space and a smaller one that serves as a beverage center — with a mix of brown and black wood. The look is that of large stones contrasting with “brown pearl” granite on other surfaces. The kitchen also features oil-rubbed bronze fixtures, pop-up electrical outlets in the kitchen and a mountain scene backsplash in one nook. Mary said she enjoys her large pantry made of lyptus, a renewable wood. Kitchen cabinets, the fireplace mantel and molding were designed and installed by Elegant Designs by Sheryl in Moneta. “We are glad we spent the money on the kitchen,” Mary said. Also on the main level is an office and master suite, both with open views of the lake. Another master suite is located below the main suite — a perfect spot for visits from Mary’s mother made more accessible by an elevator.

The lower level also includes a bar and entertainment room with a dog door that opens automatically to the outside when their two dogs approach wearing special activating collars. John said his favorite area of the home is the “man nest” above the garage with TV, games and a wall of windows across one side. The Boyers also enjoy time on their spacious dock where, in true SML style, friends often arrive by boat to visit. “You’d be missing out on this whole social scene if you didn’t live on the lake,” Mary said. After living in 12 other houses, the Boyers have found happiness in home No. 13. Mary said, “We could grow old here. I love it.”

ABOVE John Boyer’s main-floor office includes a ladder for reaching items on upper shelves.

RIGHT From top, a nook in the master bedroom features a curved bank of windows looking out to the lake; the kitchen cabinets are a mix of brown and black wood topped with varying shades of granite.


The kitchen features two islands, one used as a work space and a smaller one that

serves as a beverage center.


Part Year & Multi-State Personal ReturnsBusiness & Personal Tax Planning & Consulting ServicesBusiness Planning, Financing & Budget ServicesQuickBooks Design, Installation & TrainingQuickBooks Database Modifications & ImprovementsSection 1031 Like-kind Consulting & Qualified Intermediary Services

Self-directed IRA Consulting Invest your IRA funds in: Real estate (commercial & residential) Secured mortgage notes & deeds of trust Promissory notes Private placements (Non-public held entities) Services include: Self-directed IRA account establishment Non-taxable funds transfer Formation of holding entity Supervision of closing transaction

KEVIN A. MELE, P.C.Certified Public Accountant

(540) 297-4204Toll Free (877) 398-4205Visit us at MELECPA.COM

Located in the Hales Ford Professional Center16575 Moneta Rd. Moneta, VA 24121

Fax (540) 297-0032

Kevin A. Mele, CPA is a Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor who specializes in custom QuickBooks design, installation, and training for your business.

“Serving The

Smith Mountain Lake Area

For Over 29 Years”

TAX SMARTSTAX SMARTS

The Irs ProvIdes A GuIde To ChArITAble deduCTIons

With tax agencies, even the simplest concepts become complicated. The IRS recently provided no less than these nine questions to consider before deducting charitable donations.

1. Is the donee (recipient) really an exempt charity? To find out, go to the IRS website ww.irs.gov) and download “Publication 78, Cumulative List of Organizations.”

2. Do you itemize deductions on Form 1040, Schedule A? If not, you can’t claim your donations.

3. How much is deductible? You can claim actual cash contributions or the fair market value of property you donate. (Determining “fair market value” may require some research.)

4. Did you get anything in return for your donation, like a discount book or free tickets to an event? If so, you can only deduct the excess of your contribution over the value of the item you received.

5. Did you document your contribution? Without written proof (a receipt from the organization; a canceled check is no longer sufficient), your deduction may be disallowed.

6. Did you pledge your contribution? Only the amount paid, not pledged, is deductible, and only in the year that you paid it.

7. When did you contribute? When you donate by credit card or check, the donation qualifies immediately, even if the card statement or check debit shows up in the following year.

8. How large were your contributions? For donations of $250 or more, you need a receipt from the donee and the written receipt must be dated timely (prior to your return filing date). Property gifts worth $500 or more require completion of IRS Form 8283. Property worth over $5,000 also requires an appraisal.

9. Has the IRS revoked your charity’s exemption? Contributions made from the date of revocation forward can’t be deducted. A list of revoked agencies may be found on the IRS website.

Please give me a call if you would like to discuss the above issue or for any other assistance concerning your individual and business accounting and tax needs; please feel free to contact me at (540) 297-4204.


HOME JOURNALJohn’s Top Spot“I really love the lower patio. It has the best views, and there’s more breeze down there. It has become a favorite spot for both of us.”

Mary’s Favorite FeatureThe kitchen. “I cook a lot and I love to bake, so I wanted a kitchen like I dreamed about. The kitchen is really the heart of the home.”

We Couldn’t Live WithoutThe elevator. “My mom is 82, and when she visits, the elevator comes in handy,” Mary said. “It also helps when I set up my Christmas displays using rolling totes and carrying Santas.”

Best Use of SpaceOn the original plan, the bonus room was to be above-the-garage storage with a pull-down stairway. During the building process, Mary was at the garage-ceiling level and noticed the beautiful view, so they changed the space into a “man nest” with TV, bar, comfortable seating, pool table and dart board.


350 King’s Way Road Martinsville, VA 24112

A Sunnyside Continuing Care Retirement Community

Adding Life to Years...King’s Grant with its enduring history continues to shine. Recognized as one of the state’s finest continuing care communities with a 5 Star Health Center, accomplished wellness program and a culture of enthusiastic caring….all on 120 acres of beauty. Don’t miss out on the lasting splendor of Kings Grant.

Ask about our incentives foran easy transition.

(276) 634-1000 • (800) 462-4649 • www.kingsgrant.cc

“This is the place you can share your experiences, strengths and hopes.”-Sam Fowler, King’s Grant resident


ABOVE A bar, pool table and wall-mounted TV make the “man nest” above the garage a great place for the Boyers to relax and entertain.

FAR LEFT The lower patio is close to the water and includes shaded seating and a fireplace.

LEFT A fireplace with custom-designed mantel sees through to the hearth room.

D. Lester Kuhn, CKDCall today to schedule an appointment.

540-721-8575Smith Mountain Lake, VA

www.kitchensatthelake.com

Dear Les,When we purchased our log home at Smith Mountain Lake in 2007, we were in serious need of a kitchen remodel. You worked with our existing space, opening it up to our living area, blending with the rustic interior, and maximizing our cabinet/counter space. Remarkable and lovely job!

So ..., in 2010, we were ready to remodel our kitchen in our primary homein Elon, NC. You made the trip down and once again did a beautiful job for us! We’re extremely pleased with our finished kitchens and appreciate the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail that Kitchens at the Lake has provided for us.

Thanks again! Sherry and Doug Miller

KITCHENSat the LakeSPECIALIZING IN

KITCHEN DESIGN, SALES AND

INSTALLATION


The SML Regional Chamber is dynamic organization providing networking opportunities, referral programs, educational seminars and marketing expertise to area business professionals. More than 700 members strong, we also strive to strengthen the social and economic environment of our community by promoting tourism through a variety of media outlets and events. So, if you’re not already a member, log on to VisitSmithMountainLake.com to find out more about the affordable benefits of Chamber membership!

Whether you’re a business owner, resident or tourist,

is WORKING for YOU!

the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber

Help us spread the word about SML!Visit our web site to sign up for an SML license plate. It’s quick and easy. VisitSmithMountainLake.com

BRIDGEWATER PLAZA, SUITE 2 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121

540.721.1203visitSmithMountainLake.comOpen daily 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

NOV. 5FALL CHILI AND CRAFT FESTIVAL Music, crafts and a competitive chili cook-off from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bridgewater Plaza.Open to the public. $5.

NOV. 9CONNECT SML Chamber member business referral meeting, 8-9:30 a.m. at the SML Association office, 400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 2100, Moneta.

NOV. 17BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Chamber member networking event, 5-7 p.m. at W. E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center, Wirtz.

DEC. 14CONNECT SMLChamber member business referral meeting, 8-9:30 a.m. at the SML Association office, 400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 2100, Moneta.

DEC. 15BUSINESS AFTER HOURSChamber member networking event, 5-7 p.m. at LakeWatch Plantation hosted by the Smith Mountain Lake YMCA, Jonathan’s Restaurant and Laker Beverage & Tobacco.

EVENTSUPCOMING CHAMBER

Join the Chamber or become a volunteer!

C L O S E R T H A N Y O U T H I N KCCC LLL OOO SS EE RRR TTT HHH AAAA NNN YY OO UUU TTT HH IIIIII NNNNN KKSmith Mountain Lake, Virginia

01 SML11_cover.indd 1 4/1/11 10:47 AM

Get your FREE copy of the SML Visitor & Newcomer Guide today at the CHAMBER!

IMA

GE

CO

URT

ESY

OF

TH

E W

ATER

’S E

DG

E


The SML Regional Chamber is dynamic organization providing networking opportunities, referral programs, educational seminars and marketing expertise to area business professionals. More than 700 members strong, we also strive to strengthen the social and economic environment of our community by promoting tourism through a variety of media outlets and events. So, if you’re not already a member, log on to VisitSmithMountainLake.com to find out more about the affordable benefits of Chamber membership!

Whether you’re a business owner, resident or tourist,

is WORKING for YOU!

the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber

Help us spread the word about SML!Visit our web site to sign up for an SML license plate. It’s quick and easy. VisitSmithMountainLake.com

BRIDGEWATER PLAZA, SUITE 2 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Moneta, VA 24121

540.721.1203visitSmithMountainLake.comOpen daily 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

NOV. 5FALL CHILI AND CRAFT FESTIVAL Music, crafts and a competitive chili cook-off from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bridgewater Plaza.Open to the public. $5.

NOV. 9CONNECT SML Chamber member business referral meeting, 8-9:30 a.m. at the SML Association office, 400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 2100, Moneta.

NOV. 17BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Chamber member networking event, 5-7 p.m. at W. E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center, Wirtz.

DEC. 14CONNECT SMLChamber member business referral meeting, 8-9:30 a.m. at the SML Association office, 400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 2100, Moneta.

DEC. 15BUSINESS AFTER HOURSChamber member networking event, 5-7 p.m. at LakeWatch Plantation hosted by the Smith Mountain Lake YMCA, Jonathan’s Restaurant and Laker Beverage & Tobacco.

EVENTSUPCOMING CHAMBER

Join the Chamber or become a volunteer!

C L O S E R T H A N Y O U T H I N KCCC LLL OOO SS EE RRR TTT HHH AAAA NNN YY OO UUU TTT HH IIIIII NNNNN KKSmith Mountain Lake, Virginia

01 SML11_cover.indd 1 4/1/11 10:47 AM

Get your FREE copy of the SML Visitor & Newcomer Guide today at the CHAMBER!

IMA

GE

CO

URT

ESY

OF

TH

E W

ATER

’S E

DG

E


winterize now for fewer headaches later.Taking time to winterize your boat’s engine will ensure that your boat is ready for dependable operation when Spring comes along. Now in our 34th year of business, Webster Marine offers complete tune-up and winterization services for your stern drive, outboard motors, or personal watercraft. We’re also pleased to announce our prices on all services will remain the same as last season. Call us today to schedule your service at our marina or your dock!.

Since its beginning in 1977, Webster Marine has been a family owned and operated, full-service marine center on beautiful Smith Mountain Lake in Southwest Virginia. Located adjacent to Halesford Bridge, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea Doo sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Stop by today and check out all the great deals.

don’t get caught out in the cold.

WebsterMarine.com | 540-297-5228 | 800-325-91101185 Mills Road | Moneta, Virginia 24121 | Off Route 122, North of Hales Ford Bridge


10most memorable

When I first met former Smith Mountain Laker Magazine publisher Micah Gaudio in 2004, he asked me to write a garden piece that would be especially valuable for Laker readers. As many lakefront properties are on steep slopes, I decided to address the issue, offering a variety of ideas for turning a difficult steep slope into a landscape asset. The article appeared in the October/November 2004 issue and I’ve been a regular contributor since. Through the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and writing about many wonderful, fascinating SML residents who have created beautiful gardens in the often-difficult soil and terrain environment of the lake. I have written general-interest stories about topics such as the benefits of birds in the garden and attracting butterflies as well as important subjects such as minimizing fertilizer on lawns, reducing lawns and designing gardens sensitive to the environment that nurture the lake habitat rather than destroy it. In honor of the magazine’s 10th anniversary, I’ve identified my favorite stories among the many featured in the Laker over the years.

—Catriona Tudor Erler

Catriona Tudor Erler is a freelance garden writer, photographer and speaker who divides her time between SML and Charlottesville. She is the author of nine garden books, including “Design Ideas for Home Landscaping,” “Poolscaping: Gardening and Landscaping Around Your Pool and Spa,” and “Complete Home Landscaping.”

features


10Riparian Buffer Gardens: Most Important

November/December 2005

Fertilizers and other garden chemicals used by the thousands of people who live within the lake watershed area, as well as silt and animal waste, are damaging SML’s water quality. The pollution problem is intensified when homeowners strip their land of all or most of its natural vegetation and in its place plant a lawn that goes right down to the water’s edge. Waterfront trees, shrubs and perennials help filter pollutants and excess fertilizer by taking them up in their roots. A 25-foot wide lakefront (riparian) buffer garden does a lot to filter environmental pollutants before they reach the water. Since this article appeared, it’s been encouraging to see more homeowners planting these attractive buffer gardens.

2 0 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 5 2 1

by Catriona Tudor Erler

Photos by Catriona Tudor Erler

◄Garden designerLeslie Santapaul in her

riparian buffer garden on Smith Mountain Lake

Low-maintenance buffer gardens provide a beautiful way to prevent runoff Smith Mountain Lake has been rated one of the cleanest on the East Coast. But as development around the lake and the nearby watershed areas grows increasingly intense, the Lake’s water purity may be at risk. Fortunately, there is much that local homeowners can do to protect this valuable resource. One of the major sources of pollutants for the Lake is water runoff from gardens. Fertilizers and other garden chemicals used by the thousands of people who live within the lake watershed area, as well as silt and animal waste, all leach into the lake. This pollution problem is intensified when homeowners strip the Lake shore land of all or most of its natural vegetation, and in its place plant a lawn that goes right down to the water’s edge. American Electric Power’s recently enacted Shoreline Management Plan now prohibits lakefront homeowners from cutting down native vegetation within the 800 foot contour unless they substitute with other native plants that fulfill the same environmental function as the plant that’s removed. But for properties that have already been stripped of natives, homeowners can still help by planting a buffer garden of native plants along the waterfront. Called a riparian buffer (riparian refers to the banks of a river, stream or lake), ideally the bed should extend a minimum of 25 feet behind the rip-rap, and cover 50 percent of the shoreline frontage. However, even a small buffer is better than nothing. There are many benefits, both aesthetic and practical, to planting natives

along the shore: •The shoreline plants filter rainwater and melting snow from the surrounding watershed, preventing fertilizers, pesticides, and other pollutants from entering the Lake. •Sturdy plants, these natives survive adversity by establishing extensive root systems that burrow 3-8 feet deep, improving the soil structure and its ability to hold water. This network of roots is like living cement, adding strength to existing rip-rap, or possibly delaying the need to install it. •Increased plant diversity adds to the beauty and interest of the shore, as well as reducing the risk of a pest or disease infestation due to growing just a few plants intensely. •The plants are an important habitat for wildlife, including butterflies. The plants act as an effective barrier to geese and ducks, keeping them out of your garden and off your lawn. •Native plants are very low maintenance. They require no fertilizing (they grow leggy and unattractive if fed) and little or no watering once they’re established. •By reducing the size of your lawn, turning over some of the garden space to native plants, you’ll save time and money on mowing and fertilizing.

What to Plant A riparian buffer zone should contain a mixture of native trees, shrubs, wildflowers (known as forbs), grasses, and sedges. The palette of available native

Lake & Garden

Lake-FriendlyGARDENING

Styl

eA look back at our most memorableLake & Garden features of the past decade

If you’ve got visions of sugar plums dancing in your head as the holidays approach, then decorating your home with the bounty from the garden, larder and nearby woods and fields is an obvious choice. We suggested a variety of ways homeowners can bring nature indoors to deck the halls for the holidays. Ideas ranged from simple – arrangements of fruit and foliage and garlands made from ropes of evergreens – to elaborate craft projects that combine pine cones, seed pods, dried flowers and grasses, feathers and other materials to make striking holiday centerpieces and wreaths. A highlight was Rachel Yungman’s turkey centerpiece made with dried flowers and grasses, pine cones and rushes.

Holiday Decorating: Most CreativeNovember/December 2008

2 8 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 8 2 9

There are countless ways you can bring nature indoors to deck the halls for the holidays, ranging from simple arrangements of fruit and foliage and garlands made from ropes of evergreens to elaborate craft projects that combine pine cones, dried flowers and grasses, feathers and other materials to make striking holiday centerpieces and wreaths. Rachel Yungman of Hardy is a master at working with dried plant material. She has an artist’s eye for the shapes, patterns, textures and colors of her dried materials, transforming them into beautiful arrangements and craft projects. For Thanksgiving she makes a turkey out of pine cones, seed pods and dried plants that is worthy of gracing any Thanksgiving table. To make her turkey, Yungman glues individual pine cone scales onto a Styrofoam™ form in overlapping rows like shingles to create the neck and head. The body and tail are a mixture of dried seed pods and flowers stuck into an oasis base. Celosia serves as the wattle. Spiky flowers such as lavender, giant agastache, horehound, candle tip celosia and miniature cattails create the wide spread tail, and a turkey tail fungus tucked under the tail in back lives up to its name. Mickey Stansbury, also of Hardy, is renowned for her tabletop trees made with nuts, acorns, shells, cinnamon sticks, dried pods and flowers, boxwood, holly and other natural materials. There are three different bases she uses, depending on the tree. Styrofoam™ cones are ideal for nut trees (the nuts are baked at 250 degrees for two hours to kill any bugs) and trees made with dried hydrangea flowers. A waterlogged florist oasis block trimmed into a conical form is the best choice for trees made with living plants such as boxwood sprigs, holly, or other winter greenery. For larger trees with heavier greens and decorations, Stansbury opts for wire frames stuffed with oasis blocks. In addition to trees that are purely decorative, Stansbury also makes edible ones for holiday parties. A guest favorite is the shrimp and vegetable tree. Stansbury covers a Styrofoam™ cone with red-leaf lettuce attached with floral pins. Then she skewers shrimp, grape or cherry tomatoes, black and green olives, and cut up vegetables such as carrots and zucchini with toothpicks and secures them to the tree in an attractive

pattern. A bowl of dip placed at the base of the tree is a tasty accompaniment to the edibles on the tree. For a bit of sparkle on your mantle or tabletop, consider making sugar-frosted fruit. It’s a simple project that provides dramatic results. Pears, plums, oranges, lemons, limes and grapes are all ideal candidates for frosting. The first step involves covering the fruit with an adhesive material so the sugar will stick. Possible adhesives include light corn syrup, spray glue or an egg white diluted with a tablespoon of water and beaten until frothy. Coat the fruit with one of these adhesive materials (if you are using spray glue, skewer the fruit and rotate it as

you spray the glue), and then roll it in fine granulated sugar (regular granulated sugar works, but gives a coarser texture). Allow the fruit to dry on wax paper before arranging it on a platter or stacking the pieces in a decorative tower held together with bamboo skewers. Add ribbon or evergreen sprigs to finish off the display. The fruit will last well for about a week. The ever-popular W i l l i a m s b u r g

Christmas decorations are another source of inspiration for natural decorations. Simple pyramids of oranges or lemons with sprigs of boxwood or holly tucked in the gaps look elegant on a side table or mantle. Place a row of four pieces of fruit on the bottom, three on the next row, two and then one on top. If necessary, use bamboo skewers to hold the fruit in place. A field trip to Colonial Williamsburg (see article on Page 56) at this time of year will provide a host of ideas for decorating with natural materials, as well as resources for frames and structures to facilitate making some of the decorate displays. The possibilities for decorating for the holidays with materials from gardens, nearby woods and the produce aisle of the grocery store is limited only by your imagination. Celebrate the bounty of nature as you celebrate the holidays.

Catriona Tudor Erler is a freelance garden writer, photographer and speaker who divides her time between Smith Mountain Lake and Charlottesville. She is the author of nine garden books, including Design Ideas for Home Landscaping, Poolscaping: Gardening and Landscaping Around Your Swimming Pool and Spa and Complete Home Landscaping.

Story & PhotograPhy by Catriona tudor ErlEr

Use nature’s bounty to decorate for the holidays

Naturally

Style Lake & garden

FestiveIf you’ve got visions of sugar plums

dancing in your head as the holidays

approach, then decorating your home

with the bounty from the garden, your

larder and nearby woods and fields is

an obvious choice.

p Rachel Yungman and her decorative turkey made of dried materials.


Stairs to the Lake: Most PracticalSeptember/October 2007

Allergy-Free Gardening: Most ScientificMarch/April 2008

The challenge that steep hillside lots present for accessing the water is a design opportunity. Rather than running stairs straight down the slope, it’s more attractive to follow the contours of the land, hugging the slope so the stairs meld with the landscape. Fully enclosed risers give a finished look to wooden stairs and look much more attractive from the water than the exposed structural underpinnings. The story focused on ways to make the stairs down to the lake an aesthetic feature of your property as well as a comfortable journey.

3 6 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 7 3 7

Flights

W When confronted with a difficult garden problem, the famous 18th Century landscape gardener Lancelot “Capability” Brown used to say that he saw “great capability for landscape improvement.” So it is on Smith Mountain Lake. The challenge that hillside lots present for accessing the water is a design opportunity. Unfortunately, many people take the efficient approach to staircase design. Adhering to the theory that the fastest way to get from point A to point B is in a straight line, they run their stairs directly down the slope – like a plumb line to the water’s edge. Since nature generally doesn’t have straight lines the result often looks like a scar on the landscape. In addition, the straight line visually extends the apparent length of the staircase, making the hike up and down the hill look longer than it is. The long, straight stairs also makes the journey up and down more tedious because there is no variation or rest area along the way. A second common problem is purchasing ready-made flights of stairs that in steep situations sit high above ground level, standing out dramatically on the slope. A hand rail, which is required by code if a structure is more than 30 inches off the ground, adds more busyness to the composition. In addition, the homeowner has to pay for more building materials to create the rails. Another common cost-saving measure is to leave the face of the rise open, exposing the structural underpinning of the stairs. While that does save a little money on materials and labor, these stairs can look unattractive from the Lake, which is the primary viewing point most people have of your home and garden. A better solution is to build a staircase that follows the contours of the land, winding its way down the slope in graceful curves or zigzags.

Materials for Steps The look of a stairway to the water can be as different as the many architectural styles that are such fun to look at on the Lake. The obvious construction materials for steps include stone, wood and brick. These can be used alone, such as for a wooden or stone staircase, or combined in all sorts of creative ways. For example, steps may be formed by landscape ties or logs and then filled in with gravel, shredded bark, concrete pavers, bricks or flagstones. Your choice of material will most likely be driven by budget considerations, but also by the design of your house and dock. For example, a rustic cabin or A-frame probably calls for wooden steps. A contemporary house may look better with brick or stone, or perhaps some other modern material that is used in the house design.

Designing Steps for Comfort The height of each step, called the rise, affects the length of your stride. If you are going up a stair with a very tall rise, you will tend to take short strides because you need the leg length to reach the next step. In contrast, if the rise is short, your stride will tend to be longer. As a rule of thumb, a comfortable guide to use to determine the best combination of tread depth and riser height is that the two numbers should add up to between 18 and 20. For example, if the tread is 12 inches deep, the rise should be about 7 inches. A deeper tread, say 15 inches, should have a short rise of about 4 inches. A steep rise per step is much more tiring to walk up and down than a short step. Even a half an inch makes a huge difference. A 6-inch rise per stair is much easier and less tiring to climb than a 6½-inch rise, and a 7½-inch rise or more is exhausting. On a steep slope you can reduce the rise requirement by running the


Staircase design can be beautiful as well as functional

of

Style Lake & Garden

Fancy

3 2 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M M A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 0 8 3 3

Achoo! As spring approaches and the pollen count rises, it seems only natural that allergy sufferers are experiencing mixed feelings about the floral bounty of the season. Allergies are a common problem in this country. More than 50 million people suffer from hay fever. Add to that the asthma sufferers and those with chronic sinus problems, and you have a lot of people who are leery of going out into the garden, let alone working in it. Fortunately, it’s possible to plant a garden that is virtually free of allergy-inducing plants. With carefully selected plants and thoughtful garden-management techniques, even people with severe allergies can experience the joy of gardening.

Qualities of Less-Allergenic Plants Airborne pollen is a major source of allergies. Any plant that spreads its pollen by wind is going to be an allergy troublemaker. But not all airborne pollen is equally offending. Heavy pollen falls quickly to the ground fairly near the plant and does not cause too many problems. Lightweight pollen floats about on the air, covering everything with a fine yellow dust. Therefore, you’re better off choosing plants that produce heavy pollen. In general, plants that are pollinated by insects rather than by air will be better for sensitive gardeners. There are flowering plants that are completely pollen-free. Here’s why: Some plants produce separate male and female flowers on a single plant, others have both male and female parts in each of its flowers. A third group of plants is single-sexed, either male or female. In the case of separate-sex plants, the males produce plenty of airborne pollen, while the female plants are pollen-free. In the case of species such as willows, ash, poplars, hollies and maples that have a reputation for causing allergy problems, it is the male plants that are the culprits. The females are blameless. The females get a bad rap, because they are considered messy when they drop berries or fruit, but if there isn’t a male plant in the vicinity, they won’t produce any fruit and will be perfectly clean. Unfortunately, nursery tags don’t often give the sex of separate-sex plants. When applicable, it helps to know the cultivar name of the species you want so you’re sure to get a female variety. In the maple family, for example, opt for Acre x Freeman ‘Autumn Fantasy’ and ‘Indian Summer.’ For a red maple, choose A. rubrum ‘Autumn Glory,’ ‘Dave Red,’ ‘Doric,’ ‘Embers’, Festival,’ ‘Fanksred,’ ‘October Glory,’ ‘Red Skin,’ or ‘Red Sunset.’ Curiously, flower color and form influence the potential for allergies. Small, pale-colored flowers tend to be the worst offenders. Off-white and greenish-colored blossoms are notorious for provoking discomfort. In contrast, boldly colored trumpet-shaped flowers are a good choice for sensitive people, because the pollen is tucked down in the bottom of the cup where the insects crawl to collect it and where the wind can’t blow it around. Snapdragons are a great choice for an allergy-free garden. A bee has to pry open the flower to get to the pollen, and the flower pops back shut once the bee emerges. Duration of the pollen release is another important factor. Some trees release pollen for only a few days a year. While

it may be an uncomfortable few days, it’s usually tolerable. In contrast, trees such as the Arizona cypress and some eucalyptus flower throughout the year, creating an ongoing allergenic irritant. For an excellent list of plants rated for their potential to irritate allergies, see Allergy-Free Gardening: The Revolutionary Guide to Healthy Landscaping by Thomas L. Ogren.

Minimizing Allergies in the Garden There are lots of tricks to minimize your exposure to allergy-inducing irritants in your garden. Here are a few:• Wear a face-mask filter when you mow your lawn to avoid exposure to the dust, pollen, mold spores, and chopped insect bodies that are blown into the air by the mower. Rotary power lawnmowers are particular offenders for dispersing irritants into the air. Instead, opt for a reel mower. Also, avoid mowing early in the morning when most grasses release the most pollen. If you hire the “mow, blow and go” gardeners to care for your lawn, close the windows while they’re working to cut down on exposure.• Many shrubs produce small, allergy-promoting flowers. Shear them regularly to cut off the flowers before they develop. Likewise, give deciduous trees an annual trim, cutting back the ends of all branches to remove flower buds. This task is particularly important for trees that produce tiny flowers that are easy to overlook.• Plant to attract birds. The birds will eat a huge number of insects, lowering allergy potential. • Keep your plants healthy. The healtheir they are, the more resistant plants will be to pests and diseases that increase allergenic substances such as mold and insect dander. A disease- and pest-free plant is a less-allergenic plant. • Molds are terrible for inducing allergic reactions. Fortunately, even in the garden you can minimize their presence. Good air circulation and sunlight are anathema to them. So to discourage mold in your garden, keep woodland areas pruned with a laced canopy so light can penetrate and fresh breezes can blow through. Some molds reside in compost heaps. Get someone else to turn the heap, and discard any plants infested with molds or mildews in the trash. Whether or not you suffer from allergies, never compost diseased plants. Natural fertilizers such as manure also may harbor mold spores. It’s not uncommon to blame a newly sprouted lawn for an allergy outbreak when in fact the real cause may be the molds that were unwittingly spread along with the fertilizer.

Your garden does not need to be a source of allergy irritants. With thought and creativity, you can create a beautiful environment that’s both comfortable and healthy.

Catriona Tudor Erler is a freelance garden writer and photographer who divides her time between Smith Mountain Lake and Charlottesville, Virginia. She is the author of eight garden books, including “The Frugal Gardener: How to Have More Garden for Less Money,” and “Complete Home Landscaping.”


Create an environment that’s beautiful and non-irritatingStyle Lake & Garden

GardeningAllergy-Free

Rich with information about allergens in the garden and tips for avoiding them, this article was a keeper for anyone who suffers from pollen, mold, mildew and other allergy-inducing irritants. Among the helpful tips: opting for plants with heavy pollen that falls quickly to the ground rather than floating through the air as a fine dust; female plants produce less pollen than males; reel lawn mowers kick up less dust and pollen than rotary power mowers; and good air circulation and sunlight reduce mold and mildew in the garden.

To read the originalstories, log on to

smithmountainlake.com/10.


shorelines | 10TH ANNIVERSARY

7 6 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M J u l y 1 5 t h - A u g u s t 2 0 0 5 7 7

Lake & Garden

Styl

e

By Catriona Tudor Erler

A GARDEN BY NIGHT After years of enjoying a simple A-frame house on the lakefront point property in Huddleston, the owners decided to expand. In addition to enlarging the house, they brought in landscape architect Robert McDuffie, who also is a professor of horticulture at Virginia Tech, to redesign the garden and Clay Johnston, president of Union Hall-based Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Southern Virginia, to design the outdoor lighting. The third key person on the project was Kathy Smith of Smith Mountain Landscapes in Huddleston. She installed all the plants and made major contributions to selecting and placing them. Plans for the garden and its illumination proceeded while the house was still under construction. To take advantage of the almost-level lot, McDuffie created a stroll garden with generously wide, paved paths that meander through the large property. Large-scale beds follow the contours of the paths and sweep away in graceful curves and swoops. A rich, green lawn

connects and unifies the composition, providing open space and horizontal vistas between the beds. The garden beds are masterfully planted with perennials and shrubs that provide a mixture of heights, foliage color and texture, and floral interest in different seasons. Individual species are planted together in large swaths suitable to the scale of the beds, giving coherence to the design. Mass plantings of annuals fill in the gaps in summer and provide pools of continuous color in the season. Taller plants screen views from one part of the garden to another, making some of the space feel more enclosed and intimate, as well as adding a sense of mystery about what’s around the curve of the path or just over the shrub. McDuffie made a point of saving many of the indigenous trees that were already growing on the property, trimming them up so that the trunks are like architectural pillars and the leafy canopies provide dappled shade. They give a mature, established look to the garden, and on the lake side, frame the

views of water and mountain. The gently curving path that leads from the driveway to the front door spreads into a wider, circular space with a spectacular, three-tier Italian fountain that welcomes people with the musical sound of falling water. At the fountain, one branch of the path continues to the front door, while another heads off in another direction. This path runs underneath a classic, vine-covered arbor. Two benches with mosaic tile seats face each other under the arbor so people can sit and enjoy the garden in a shady, bower setting. On the lake side of the house, paved terraces overlook lawns that curve around beds that have a paisley-like pattern of swirled, abstract curved shapes. Using the site plan for the house and landscape design, Johnston created an elaborate, sophisticated lightscape to enhance and complement McDuffie’s garden plans. It’s a flexible system, all low-voltage, so lights locations can be adjusted as the plants grow.

Photos By Catriona Tudor Erler

uHalf hood path light shines light on nearby plants as well as down on path

uArbor pillars illuminated with lights pointing up, fountain beyond lit with submerged lights

Hunt Garden: Most EnlighteningJuly/August 2005

Decorating Docks and Decks: Most Lake-centricMay/June 2008

A lakefront-stroll garden with professional lighting designed by Clay Johnston, president of Union Hall-based Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, was an object lesson on good outdoor lighting techniques. The low-voltage system is flexible, allowing the homeowners to move lights as plants grow or garden needs change. Particularly outstanding was the uplit tiered fountain, the illuminated arbor, downlit paths, and the uplighting that brought out the details of the house facade.

The story focused on ways to beautify your dock and enhance the experience for passersby on the water by decorating with containers brimming with color. For those not at the lake full time, the article offered suggestions for adding peat moss and water-retaining crystals or gels to the potting medium to help it retain moisture.

3 4 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 3 5

DOCK Beautify your dock and enhance the experience for passersby on the water by decorating with containers brimming with color. “Ah,” you may say. “Great idea, but I’m not at the lake often enough to keep them watered.” Not a problem. Fortunately, a lot of good container plants thrive in heat and drought, and you can amend the planting medium so it retains moisture, significantly reducing the watering requirements.

Container Choices New, modern materials have added a whole range of container styles that are lightweight, durable and attractive. One is molded fiberglass, cast and finished so it resembles stone, clay or a metal such as wrought iron, lead, rusted iron or bronze. They are available shaped into planters, urns and tubs. Another modern material for garden containers is polyurethane foam, which is formed to resemble terracotta, cast stone, wood and even rattan. Like the fiberglass containers, they are more durable than ceramic or clay, able to withstand year-round extreme temperatures and exposure to sunlight without cracking or fading. These planters also are easier to lift and maneuver because they are 90 percent lighter than clay pots. You might also consider opting for something totally unexpected. What about an abandoned rowboat? Or a leaky pair of fishing waders? Build containers into a bench or attach window boxes along the rim of the dock. Most docks cover a large expanse of space, so your containers need to be large to fit with that scale. Anything too small will look insignificant, and too-small containers risk blowing over in a gust of wind. If you’ve already got containers, but they’re smaller than ideal, group them together to create a larger visual mass. Grouped containers also enhance the effect of a bountiful bouquet or flower garden.


Containerscan add a

punch of color to your favoriteoutdoor space

Style Lake & Garden

DRESS UP YOUR



1st Time Home Buyers•Investments2nd Homes • Reverse Mortgages • Refinance

Your Local Office:

800.722.7203The Lusk TeamThomas N. Lusk • 540. 314.6462 (NMLS-111939)

Thomas N. Lusk, II • 540.354.2109 (NMLS-211301)

Conveniently Located in the Westlake area12925 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Suite 200 Hardy, VA 24101

Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group is licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission

License Number MC-936. NMLS72043

540-580-0830TopNotchLawnCare.com

Winter Time Leaf Pickup & Removal

Lawn & Landscape Maintenance

Providing full lawn & landscapeservice to the region since 2001

Caring for your lawn, your landscape, and our environment

Call Eric • 540.353.4009NoonkesterConstruction.com

CALL TO SEE THIS LAKE HOUSE

Before you select your builder forNew Construction or Renovations

VT Building Construction Graduate30 years of experience • Green Builder



Mullendore Garden: First Lovely Laker Landscape Contest WinnerSeptember/October 2008

The outstanding garden belonging to Don and Karin Mullendore was the winner of the inaugural Lovely Laker Landscape Contest. Planted on a steep slope, the potentially difficult situation was used to great advantage. The garden is “presented” like a painting on an easel to viewers looking up from below and is an abstract design of shapes, colors and textures when viewed from above. To the side overlooking the swimming pool is a flower-covered slope where a medley of blooming plants provides summer-long interest.

One of the latest trends in gardening is outdoor living space. Garden and home centers carry beautiful, durable weather-resistant fabrics, including carpets, furniture and kitchen equipment to create well-appointed outdoor rooms, including seating and dining areas and kitchens. Other features that enhance outdoor living are fireplaces and fire pits as well as lighting and water features. We highlighted lake residents who enjoy their expanded outdoor living spaces, including Charlie and Karen Cromwell’s carpeted patio living room; Ron and Colleen Toothman’s pizza oven and outdoor kitchen; Jerry and Janet Potter’s deck with a built-in barbecue, sink and refrigerator as well as storage space under the counter; and the beautiful outdoor tables Nancy Marshall sets for her guests.

3 0 May · June 2009 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER 3 1

Elements in a well-appointed outdoor room include a seating and dining area with perhaps a focal point of a fireplace or fire pit, a cooking space, lighting and a water feature. To meet this growing garden trend, manufacturers are offering outdoor furnishings and fabrics, kitchen appliances, and lighting fixtures that have a high level of refinement, quality and durability. Furnishing outdoor rooms No outdoor room is complete without ample furniture for dining and lounging. Attractive, high-quality outdoor furniture also provides a smooth transition from the indoors to the outdoors and helps define the space as an extension of your home. In addition to chairs, consider furnishing an outdoor room with a love seat or two, end tables, and a coffee table to make a comfortable seating arrangement. Also don’t overlook the possibility of an indoor-outdoor carpet designed to withstand all that weather can throw at it. Karen Cromwell, Smith Mountain Laker entertaining columnist who lives on the Blackwater, laid an all-weather carpet over the paved area of her patio to provide a softer flooring for the "living room." Because the seating is in the middle of a much larger open space overlooking the lake, the carpet also visually defines the seating area. Charlie and Nancy Marshall have furnished their large deck overlooking the lake for both dining and outdoor lounging with matching, comfortable cushions on all the chairs. When Nancy

sets her glass top table for entertaining, it looks as elegant and pretty as an indoor dining table. Today, outdoor fabrics are almost indistinguishable from normal indoor upholstery material, and they come in a wide range of textures, patterns, and colors. In addition to being weatherproof, they are resistant to fading and staining. The colors remaining crisp and bright even when the fabric is dipped in chlorine bleach, and they wipe clean when splotched with staining food such as ketchup. You also don’t have to be limited to a narrow selection of pre made cushions. Indoor-outdoor fabric is available on bolts for custom made cushions and pillows, and shoppers can take home swatches to test. Fireplaces and fire pits You can extend the outdoor living season and provide a pleasant focal point in your outdoor living room, with a fireplace or fire pit. Just as indoors, homeowners can opt for either wood burning or gas-fired hearths. Gas is less messy than word-burning fireplaces and fire pits, and makes log storage and fire-building a task of the past. You also eliminate the problem of wood smoke blowing in an unwanted direction, but you miss out on the pleasant crackle of a traditional fire as well as the special smell of burning wood. If you don’t have a built-in fire pit as part of your landscape and patio design, you can derive the same pleasure from the portable fire bowls available at most home supply stores. Outdoor kitchens Whether it's a simple hibatchi or kettle style barbecue; a high-end kitchen complete with cook top, refrigerator, sink with running water, warming drawers, and a dishwasher; or a

Story and photography by Catriona tudor ErlEr

Growing home trend enhances warm-weather entertaining

It’s summer time and the living is easy at Smith Mountain Lake. Life moves

outdoors for activities on and around the lake as well as for relaxing and dining.

In order to spend as much time outside as possible, many homeowners are

creating outdoor "great rooms," incorporating a living room, dining room

and kitchen for family gatherings and outdoor entertaining.

OUTDOORS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

The Great

Style | LAKE & GARDEN

t Nancy Marshall's elegant outdoor dining table is ready for entertaining.

p A stone pizza oven is the focal point of Ron and Colleen Toothman's lakeside outdoor kitchen.

3 0 S M I T H M O U N T A I N L A K E R . C O M S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 8 3 1

Style Lake & Garden

iewed by land or by boat, Don and Karin Mullendore’s garden is a winner. Planted on a steep slope, the potentially difficult situation has been used to great advantage so that the garden is “presented” like a painting on an easel to viewers looking up from below. From above, it is an abstract design of shapes, colors and textures. Then there’s the flower garden overlooking the

swimming pool where a medley of flowers provide summer-long interest. It all adds up to a spectacular scene worthy of the top prize in our first Lovely Laker Landscape Contest. On the largest sloping face of the Mullendore’s yard, Gold Mop false cypresses (Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Gold Mop’), Rosy Glow barberries, Burford hollies and Japanese maples provide the backbone to the design. The Gold Mops and barberries are planted in swaths, creating an undulating design of merging gold and pinkish red foliage punctuated with the red tinted foliage and distinctive arcing shape of a Japanese maple.

Planted on a diagonal down the slope, Burford hollies cut a line through the free form planting, anchoring it with their dark green foliage and pruned spherical shape. A narrow brick path cuts across the slope through the shrubbery, leading down to the dock. The flower garden planted on the upward slope along the path that leads to the swimming pool is the crowning jewel in the garden. Inspired by the English cottage gardens where a wide variety of flowers are crowded together in happy profusion, Karin has combined perennials, shrubs and annuals that flourish in our hot, humid summers. The centerpiece to the flower garden is a Knock Out® rose that blooms nonstop from spring through the first frost and requires a minimum of care. A Rosy Glow barberry just behind it adds an appealing color echo, while a Gold Mop false cypress inserts a golden yellow accent. Towering over the composition is a white-flowering crape myrtle. At the feet of the shrubs is an abundance of perennial flowering plants, including phlox, black-eyed Susan, coreopsis, coneflowers and Shasta daisy. Annuals and biennials such as Wave® Petunias,

VStory & PhotograPhy by Catriona tudor ErlEr

A WinningCombinationColorful annuals, perennials and shrubs create a stunning lake landscape

q Don and Karin Mullendore's beautiful garden, located on a point near Marker B26, was the winner of the first Lovely Laker Landscape Contest.

Outdoor Garden Rooms: Biggest TrendMay/June 2009


Children’s Crafts: Most FunMay/June 2010

Nurseries at Smith Mountain Lake: Most Valuable ReferenceMarch/April 2010

After the children or grandchildren have worn themselves out with too much sun and water, change the pace with garden-focused crafts that can be done indoors or in the shade. We highlighted two fun, easy-to-do projects from the excellent book, “Gardening with Kids” by Catherine Woram and Martyn Cox. Laker residents Ben Gibson, who was 10 at the time, and McKenna-Kate Gaudio, 7, kindly allowed us to photograph them as they each painted a flower pot and created a mosaic bird bath from a clay pot saucer.

2 4 May • June 2010 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM 2 5


Enhance a kid's day at SML with fun gardening projects

The grandchildren are visiting and they've worn themselves out boating, swimming, jet skiing, wakeboarding, fishing and generally having a good time in and near the water. They need a break, but television and computer games aren't what you have in mind. Why not try a gardening project? There are numerous books on the market geared toward introducing children to gardening. One I particularly enjoy is Gardening with Kids by Catherine Woram and Martyn Cox. Gardening with Kids is rich with ideas and tips to help parents and grandparents inspire a love of gardening in children, and beautifully illustrated with captivating photographs of children enjoying the described activities. The first section provides a basic overview of the rudiments of gardening with a focus on children, but it is the subsequent chapters

that come alive with step-by-step garden-related projects suitable for kids of varying ages. The projects include simple activities like planting fast-sprouting seeds such as radishes and cress in egg shells decorated with faces. When the seeds sprout, the egg person has a fine head of "hair." Another fun project in the "Growing" chapter is creating a tower of plants by stacking pots of diminishing size on top of each other and then planting the edges with succulents, herbs or flowers. The book's "Making" chapter includes a number of fun possibilities - pressing flowers; creating an elf house with twigs, twine, acorns, felt and pipe cleaners; making pine cone animals; and potato printing.


Craft Time!

McKenna-Kate Gaudio (left) and Ben Gibson create a bird bath using a ceramic saucer, grout and colored stones. McKenna-Kate, 7, is the daughter of former Smith Mountain Laker publisher Micah

Gaudio. Ben, 10, is the son of editor Andie Gibson.

McKenna-Kate arranges stones in her bird bath, then shows off the finished product.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

There are horticultural treasures at our fingertips at Smith Mountain Lake available at a wide variety of nurseries. Each nursery has a different strength or focus. Together, they add up to an excellent resource for both the avid gardener and those who want a low-maintenance landscape or who just want to express their creativity with a few well-planted containers.

The Growing Place From the road you’d never guess the horticultural wonders available under the triple hoop houses at The Growing Place. In the 64,000-square-foot space, you’ll find a huge selection of perennials, including a wide choice of fern species, the latest exciting coral bells hybrids, sedums, hellebores, native plants, and hybrid coneflowers in a wide array of sunset colors. In the spring, you’ll find 50 varieties of tomatoes and an excellent selection of herbs, vegetables and hanging baskets. Owned by the Bayer family since 1982, Rachel Bayer, daughter of the founders, has been running The Growing Place since 1993. The Bayers grow 95 percent of their stock from tiny plugs, seeds and rooted cuttings. That’s a boon to customers because it means they are able to offer a wide selection of high-quality plants at low prices.

Lakescapes Nursery A full-service nursery with two locations, Lakescapes provides landscape design and maintenance, has an excellent selection of trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials, and an informed staff to help customers make educated choices. But what makes Lakescapes stand out from other local nurseries is the incredible selection of ceramic containers. You’ll find hundreds of glazed pots in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes and designs ranging from traditional to avant-garde. It’s filled with a treasure trove of awesome amphora and urns.

Lake-area nurseries offer a broad range of services and specialties

A touch of whimsy at Walter's Greenhouse.

From left, Walter's Greenhouse sells a wide assortment of flowers, herbs, and foliage plants as well as beautifully planted containersl; Ceramic containers in all sizes, shapes and colors are abundant at the Southlake location of Lakescapes Nursery.CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

2 6 March • April 2010 | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKER SMITHMOUNTAINLAKE.COM 2 7


FULLBLOOM

IN


Six outstanding nurseries around or near the lake were featured in this helpful reference piece, which included information about the services and products each business provides as well as the types of plants you’re likely to find there. The nurseries are: Blackwater Nursery, The Growing Place, Lakescapes Nursery, Moneta Farm and Home Center, Walter’s Greenhouse and Willowtree Nursery.

To read the originalstories, log on to

smithmountainlake.com/10.




Lake

shorelines | ART & CULTURE


In early 2010, the Laker profiled Sara Elizabeth Timmins, a young actress and film producer with a dream to create an independent film at Smith Mountain Lake.

The ambitious Timmins has spent the two years since then securing funds, fine-tuning the script, signing well-known actors (including Jane Seymour), coordinating wide-spread volunteer involvement from an eager lake community and overseeing the film’s production. “Lake Effects” was finally introduced at a red-carpet screening on Oct. 7 at Westlake Cinema (see Page 76 for photos from the event).

One of the most significant happenings at SML in recent years, the production of “Lake Effects” was well-documented in local media. But, as with any major project, countless stories went untold – funny, quirky, cute, clever – so we asked Timmins and the film’s production coordinator, Chinah Jewell, to share a few of their favorite behind-the-scenes stories.

B e h i n d t h e s c e n e sStorieS by LindSey Wagnon | PhotograPhy courteSy of Life out Loud fiLmS

effects



By the time 3-year-old Madison Doss got her turn to be filmed as an extra in “Lake Effects,” she had been playing hard enough to take her role as a bored child to the next level.

“The scene was with [actor] Ben Savage sitting with a group of kids on a dock listening to a news reporter, and he may have been talking with [actress] Madeline Zima,” said SML resident Sue Timmins, mother of producer Sara Elizabeth Timmins, who was in charge of casting extras for the film. “Madison was part of the group of children and she was dozing off.”

Timmins said the children had been at the site playing for hours in anticipation of their call to set. Madison’s mother, Tawnya Doss, said her family played multiple roles in the film.

“Sara Elizabeth’s parents and my parents are neighbors and friends,” Doss said. “We happened to

be visiting the lake from our home in Harrisonburg and thought it would be fun to be involved.”

The Doss family, which also includes husband John and daughter Kayleigh, was filmed for a flashback scene in addition to Madison’s big moment.

“[Madison] is very animated and kept asking, ‘Why are we doing this again?,’” said Tawnya Doss. “When I explained to her that she would be in a movie she asked, ‘Well, can I write my friends, and will they get to see me?’”

Doss said she was concerned Madison’s nodding off would prevent the scene from being used. Production coordinator Chinah Jewell said the outcome was just the opposite.

“It actually ended up being very appropriate to the scene,” she said. “The children are supposed to be bored and it’s even more effective that she is falling asleep.”

sleepy on set

Madison Doss (front row, left) takes her role as a bored child seriously, nodding off during filming of a scene in “Lake Effects,” a movie set at Smith Mountain Lake.


Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals

866-721-9797 • 540-721-9797 13595 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Suite 100, Moneta, VA 24121

www.rsirentals.com • [email protected]

Specializing in quality waterfront vacation rentals

Your perfect waterfront vacation is waiting!

“THE CAPE”Setting The Standard For Elegance

www.keboconstruction.com

Check out additional interior and exterior photos online!

“It’s Not Custom Unless It’s KEBO!”

540.483.1222

ERICH J.P. FABERCERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTSERVING THE LAKE SINCE 1991

85 WESTLAKE ROADWESTLAKE TOWNE CENTER

HARDY, VIRGINIA 24101

(540) 719-4600


Smith Mountain Lake-area musician Kyle Forry took a passing interest in the news of “Lake Effects” before a series of events thrust him and his band, Barefoot West, into a substantial role in the film.

“I first heard about ‘Lake Effects’ through the wonderful world of Facebook,” said Forry.” I Googled it to find out more information and saw that they were casting extras. It definitely sparked my interest in the possibility of being involved musically.”

At the time, Barefoot West, an acoustic rock/Americana band that also includes locals Corey Hunley, Ryan Greer, Justin Arnett and Chance Taylor, was working on an album of original songs, several of which ended up in the hands of the filmmaker’s parents.

“My mother mentioned Barefoot West to [producer] Sara Elizabeth Timmins' parents and handed them a CD of our original music. The funny thing is I sent an e-mail to Life Out Loud Films that very same day to ask if there was any interest in using local musicians in the film or the film's soundtrack,” said Forry. “Our

sound Backing by Barefoot West

friends and fans started sending e-mails to Life Out Loud Films about Barefoot West.”

Production coordinator Chinah Jewell said the volume of e-mail was enough to get her attention.

“We started getting these e-mails about how great Barefoot West was and that we should have them perform in the film,” she said. “The director saw them perform at the [SML] Wine Festival and they ended up contributing the most music to the film.”

The band was asked to perform in scenes during filming and five of Barefoot West’s original songs were picked up for the movie’s soundtrack.

“One of the songs that I wrote, ‘Rekindle,’ went along with the movie’s story line almost perfectly,” said Forry. “Director Michael McKay was very excited about that and said it was meant to be.”

If given the chance, Forry said the band would definitely participate in a film again.

“It was the coolest experience that Barefoot West has ever had as a band. We're all a bunch of characters anyway, so I think we fit in nicely,” he said. “All of us loved every minute.”



ABOVE Barefoot West band members prepare for a scene during the filming of “Lake Effects” in the fall of 2010.

LEFT Chinah Jewell, production coordinator for “Lake Effects,” served as a double for one of the film’s stars, actress Scottie Thompson (inset above).

stand-in saviorLake resident Chinah Jewell had recently

relinquished her Miss Virginia crown when she took an intern position with Life Out Loud Films at the start of pre-production. Several months into filmmaking, the James

Madison University performing arts graduate got her chance to step out from behind the camera and into the spotlight.

“We had test audiences watch the film in its first draft,” Jewell said. “One of their comments was they wanted to see the main character actively searching for

an answer for the solution solved in the end of the movie. We were hoping to get Scottie Thompson, the actress who plays the main character, Sara, to come do reshoots, but she was busy filming an ABC pilot.”

While the film staff waited to hear from Thompson, a secondary plan was already forming in the mind of Jewell as well as that of producer Sara Elizabeth Timmins.

“When it started to seem like Scottie wouldn’t be able to do it, Sara Elizabeth and I both thought maybe I could stand in for her,” said Jewell. “My hair is darker than hers so that was a challenge. Sara Elizabeth went to the beauty store and bought spray-in gold hair color to see how it would turn out.”

With help from the hair color and careful scrutiny of the scenes already filmed, Jewell provided a nearly perfect actress double.

“Thank goodness we had all the outfits Scottie wore except for one, which we improvised from my own closet. We had to look at the exact way she had her hair curled too,” she said. “I’m filmed going through files and pulling out record books, scrolling the microfiche machine and on the computer. I can’t wait to see if my friends and family can figure out which parts I’m in when the movie comes out.”

RIC

K R

IES

HU

ON

G F

RA

LIN


Roanoke native Leigh Huff was invited to prospective investor meetings before the start of “Lake Effects.” It was at one of these meetings he met producer Sara Elizabeth Timmins and was able to demonstrate

what his tactical marketing, design and production services company, Exemplum, could do for the movie.

“We provided a number of special visual effects for the film,” Huff said. “Examples of our work include removing lights in certain scenes, creating fog on the water, removing a character from a scene and creating reflections in the sunglasses of an actress. Our involvement was all post-production visual effects where we worked with the director, film editors and producers using film clips provided to us.”

Huff said being a part of “Lake Effects” provided his employees with valuable experience and the confidence that they can provide high-quality, movie-grade work. The connection has also led to additional projects for the Blacksburg-based company.

a special effect “One of the technical editors that worked on the

film asked us to provide special effects for a television show called ‘Rhett & Link: Commercial Kings’ that appears on IFC [Independent Film Channel],” said Huff. “I have always felt that this area has a lot more artistic and technical talent than most people are aware of. Our role in the production of the film will hopefully be recognized as indicative of the types of skills that can be found locally.”

Timmins said the partnership with Huff’s company is an example of one of Life Out Loud’s missions.

“We wanted to provide opportunity to those who have talent equal to that in Los Angeles who just haven't had the chance,” she said. “I knew Exemplum could handle the job, but what was so amazing was at no point did any of our Hollywood professionals question if he had done films before because of the high quality of the work.”



ClearView RailingGlass Deck Railing & Aluminum Fence Systems

William Traylor41 Roanoke Landing Circle • Hardy, Virginia 24101

540-890-9620(bus/fax) 540-761-8058(cell)[email protected] www.excellrailing.com

Innovative • Maintenance-Free

Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Products and discounts not avail-able to all persons in all states. Accident Forgiveness is an optional feature. Nationwide, Nationwide Insurance, the Nationwide framemark and On Your Side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2009

Our sense of pride and commitment to quality is apparent in every home we build.

over

25years of

experience

RobeRt R. baueR building ContRaCtoRs, inC.5 4 0 . 2 9 6 . 2 24 2 | r r b b u i l d e r s . c o m | 3 3 3 5 W h i t e h o u s e R o a d , M o n e t a , V A

One Home, One Buyer,One Dream At A Time.Master Builder with over 25 years of experience.


Cold

www.MHEades.com 540-719-4306

If you dream it ...we can build it.

M.H. Eades, Inc. Custom Homes your top custom home builder in Smith Mountian Lake. We will build you the house of your dreams on your own lot. Specializing in Traditional as well as Green and Eco Friendly dream homes.

With years of experience in the Smith Mountain Lake area, we have built a reputation for being the custom builder known for quality and value. With M.H. Eades, Inc. you can choose your lot, tell us your dream, and

we will help turn your dreams into a reality with the custom built home you’ve been dreaming of.

M.H. Eades, Inc. is one of the finest custom home builders or contractors you will find in Smith Mountain Lake (SML), Va. We primarily build around the lake and the outlaying areas such as Bedford, Lynchburg and Roanoke. If you want quality custom homes then you want a quality custom builder, and that’s M.H. Eades, Inc

M.H. Eades, Inc. Custom Homes is honored and proud to be the builder of three of the homes on the 2011 Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour shown here. As you tour these beautiful homes, be sure to note the craftsmanship and quality that went into each one. For more information on the homes, visit www.smlcharityhometour.com

2011 Home Tour Homes!


Story by Jerry Hale | PHotograPHy courteSy of SMl Water Ski club

New Year’s Day tradition enters its 19th year for SML Water Ski Club

ColdCONqUERING THE

shorelines | TRADITION


Years of Service20

Experience the Seven Oaks DifferenceOur Services• Full Service Landscape Installation

and Turf Maintenance• Outdoor Living Areas, Patios, Walkways,

Kitchens, Fireplaces, Fire Pits• Natural Stone Walls & Walkways• Shoreline Restoration/Landscape Buffers• Seasonal Color/Annual Planting• Erosion, Sediment Control & Stabilization• Rain Gardens & Wetland Restoration

Our Commitment• A Personable Approach To

Outstanding Customer Service• Annual In-House Job Specific

Training For All Employees• We Utilize a Broad Network

Of Supporting Specialists• Dale Carnegie Communication Training

Required For Management Personnel• Precision Scheduling To Ensure On-Time

& On-Budget Completion Of Your Project

Call to Schedule a Consultation

540.489.3715Established in 1991 • P.O. Box 49, Redwood VA 24146 • Proud member of the following associations

P.O. Box 195 Hardy, VA 24101

540-798-7733

Turn an Ugly Lot Into a Beautiful New Home

We can build it new and pretty on the lot of your choice in

accordance with your own plans or those of your architect.

Call MG Contracting for personal planning, attention to building

details, and great service.

ALSO, if you need to fix up or re-do your existing space, call us for a quote to do the job.

[email protected] mgcontractor.com

MGC40Laker MagazineSept. 22, 2011

System 4 Advertising540-344-4004


When most Lakers make plans for New Year’s Day activities, swim suits and water skis aren’t among the required gear.

But for hard-core members of the Smith Mountain Lake Water Ski Club, Jan. 1 isn’t just the first day of the year. It’s the first ski day of the year

The SML Water Ski Club will hold its 19th Polar Bear Ski Day on Jan. 1, 2012. Conceived by charter members Todd Rowland, Tom Tanner and Luis Sanchez in 1994, the event has been embraced by club skiers and a smattering of guests over the years. Rowland has been on the wet end of the towline on all 18 previous Polar Ski outings and plans to be there for the next one.

“The first year we did it, the air temperature was in the 60s and the water was mid-50s,” Rowland said. “We had 15 or 16 skiers that day, and the weather was so pleasant that we ended up skiing most of the afternoon.”

But SML’s early January conditions aren’t always that hospitable, and that affects the turnout.

“There were two years that only Sara Roach [now Sara Lemley, who lives in Florida but often makes the trip for Polar Ski] and I skied the event,” Rowland said. “We have yet to ski in the middle of a genuine winter storm, but there’s been snow on the ground for several occasions. One year, the towboat wouldn’t start because water was frozen solid in the exhausts. We ended up skiing behind a bass boat. That was humiliating, to say the least.”

Dress for participants varies according to weather conditions. Ginger Tanner, who often hosts the event with husband Tom at their sheltered dock in Baywood, wears a dry suit over long johns or sweats. Tom Tanner usually opts for a short wet suit, counting on a successful dock start and a finishing

WANT TO GO? SML Water Ski Club Polar Bear Ski Day

What New Year’s Day event open to anyone who wants to ski or just watch. Potluck lunch follows. RSVP to Tom Tanner, 540.721.3582 or [email protected] by Dec. 30.

When Noon on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012

Where Tom and Ginger Tanner’s home,425 Baywood Dr., Moneta

Cost No charge for members; donations accepted for non-member to cover gasoline charges.

More info smlwaterski.org

coast back to the ladder to keep him from spending significant time immersed. Rowland and a few other brave souls gut it out in summer attire.

“About three years into the event, Sara [Lemley] dared me to ski without a wet suit,” he said. “I accepted the challenge and have done it that way ever since.”

Over the past few years, participation has been running close to a dozen skiers in a wide range of ages. In 2006, 4-year-old Emma Barber, daughter of Boardwalk residents Don and Cindy Barber, was the first skier off the dock, setting the record for the youngest participant in the event’s history. Teenage

Don Barber adjust the skis of 4-year-old daughter Emma before her first run at the 2006 event.

ABOVE Tom Tanner skis without a wet suit, a tradition he started on a dare more than 15 years ago.

PREVIOUS PAGE Todd Rowland starts from the dock.



slalom-skiing champions Randolph and Caroline Cooper regularly participate. Last year, ski club members Gene and Jo Grimley of Elon, N.C., took honors as the event’s oldest participants. Now 70, both said they plan to participate again this year.

“We enjoy the exercise and being with friends on the lake,” said Gene Grimley, who spends in-season weekends at SML fine-tuning his slalom-course skills. “We look forward to being part of the Polar Ski as long as we’re physically able.”

Skiers who aren’t club members are welcome to take a Polar Ski run with the group but are asked to make a small donation to help cover the cost of gasoline. Participants also bring food to share at the post-ski lunch, which Ginger Tanner lays out in the warmth of her lake-level recreation room.

A number of supportive onlookers – relatives and friends of the participants suitably bundled up in winter hats and coats — also crowd the dock “to encourage the crazies,” Ginger Tanner said. Next-door neighbors Terry and Dee Chisholm have expanded the spectator-sport aspect of the event by hosting a Polar Ski-watching party from their deck.

“A couple years ago, we were at a New Year’s Eve gathering,” Terry Chisholm said. “When we mentioned that the Polar Skiers would be at our neighbors’ dock the next day, people were really interested, and we had about 20 of them over the next afternoon. They loved watching ski club members braving the cold.”

Now it’s become the entertainment for an annual Jan. 1 party, with guests flocking out on the deck to toast the participants, yell encouragement and cringe when someone flubs a dock start, takes a fall or misjudges a return to dock and ends up submerged in the frigid waters.

“Last year, there were over 30 of us,” Chisholm said. “It’s become an annual highlight, and we’re looking forward to Polar Ski 2012.”

So is Rowland.“It’s an SML tradition,” he said, “like jumping

off the Cliffs on July 4th weekend used to be, only a whole lot chillier.”

SML Water Ski Club members gather prior to this year’s Polar Ski. Front row from left: Gene Grimley, Todd Rowland, Ginger Tanner, Sara Lemley. Middle row: Jo Grimley, Tom Tanner, Dan Lemley. Back row: Jerry Hale, Rusty Richardson, Matt Bradshaw, John Manganaro.

“We look forward to being part of the Polar Ski as long as we’re physically able.”

Gene Grimley


Jo Grimley takes a run during the 2011 Polar Ski.


(540) 483-0018

Martinsville DuPont Credit Union

We Save You Money...Join Us Today!

You can join MDCU if: You live or work in the cities of Martinsville and Danville, or the counties of Franklin, Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania.

Our goal is to offer lower fees and better rates for you.

Call MDCU for more information. Become a member today!

Martinsville, Collinsville & Rocky Mount(800) 475-MDCU or (276) 632-1679

www.mdcu.org

Federally insured by

up to $250,000NCUA

It's never too early to invest in their future

Retirement Planning Investments Insurance Taxes Accounting

Registered Representatives and Investment Advisor Representatives offer securities and advisory services through Workman Securities Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC. 6500 City West Parkway, Suite 350, Eden Prairie, MN. 55344. 1-800-225-6465. BMS Consulting is not controlled by or a subsidiary of Workman Securities Corporation.

540.721.4045 800.766.4267 bmsbenefits.comRoanoke MartinsvilleChristiansburg Smith Mountain LakeP.O. Box 760 Hardy, Virginia 24101

540-576-1177 Touchlesscover.com

MAXIMUM Coverage for Your Boat, MINIMUM Effort for You

Remote controlled and Custom

Made Specifically for Your Boat

PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA


www.runkandpratt.com

COMMUNITYFEATURES

Great Meals • Beauty/Barber Shop

Movie Theater

In-House Physician

In-House Therapy

Respite Care

Medication Managment

Recreation & Activities Center Library

Off-site Activities & Outings

Experience an active lifestyle at the highest quality facility around.

Runk & Pratt invites you to join our growing family of lake loving residents.

540.719.1300Westlake Towne Center

(Located behind Westlake Kroger, next to Carilion)[email protected]

ASSISTED LIVINGALZHEIMER’S CARE

INDEPENDENT LIVING

PamPering • Clothing & aCCessories • home & garden • sPorts, outdoors & entertainment


PamPering • Clothing & aCCessories • home & garden • sPorts, outdoors & entertainment

You’ve made your holiday shopping list and are ready to do

whatever it takes to find the perfect gift for everyone on it, right? But

before you take off for larger shopping destinations – spending more

time and money to get there – consider sticking closer to home.

Smith Mountain Lake has a wide variety of distinctive shops that

can make completing your holiday purchasing easier than ever.

When you commit to shopping at SML, you have the opportunity

to find new adventure in a familiar environment. Perhaps there are

stores you haven’t visited in a while, or others you’ve yet to venture

into at all. The holiday season is the perfect time to get to know local

merchants and what they have to offer. And when you shop local,

you not only avoid long lines and traffic, you support SML retailers

during the non-tourist winter season.

On the following pages you’ll find the Laker’s annual Holiday

Gift Guide, which is organized into four categories – Pampering,

Clothing and Accessories, Home and Garden, Sports, Outdoors

and Entertainment – to help make shopping at SML even more

convenient. Happy Holidays!

2011

GUIDEGIFT

BBC HAIR STUDIO OF WESTLAKE13699 B.T. Washington Hwy.#206, Moneta540-719-2217 Full-service haircare services, hair products, gift certificates

ERIC & CO. PREMIERE SALON13351 B.T. Washington Hwy.Hardy540-721-7336 Full-service haircare services, massage, nail and skin care

MASSAGE WORKS16440 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-721-5528 Massages and gift certificates

MERLE NORMAN WESTLAKE84 Westlake Road, #115Moneta540-719-1700 merlenormanstudio.com/mn-9275/Cosmetics, skincare products, jewelry, handbags, mirrors, gift baskets

MODERN NAILS SPA400 Scruggs Road, #1300Moneta540-719-1100Full-service nail salon, gift certificates

NAILS BY TINA14807 Moneta Road Moneta540-342-3377Full-service nail salon, gift certificates

SALON 7416483 Moneta RoadMoneta540-296-0902Full-service hair care services, hair products

SALON AT WESTLAKE13105 B.T. Washington Hwy.Hardy540-721-3141 Full-service hair care services, hair products

SALON DEL SOL70 Scruggs RoadMoneta540-719-8266 Tanning

SALON ONE & SPA400 Scruggs Roa, #400 Moneta540-719-0025salononesml.comMassage therapy, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, laser treatments

TANTASTIC1123 Celebration Ave. Moneta | 540-297-8267 Tanning

WESTLAKE MASSAGE & SPA70 Scruggs Road #106 Hardy540-721-1192 westlakemassage.com Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, hot stone massage, Biotone spa treatments

WESTLAKE SALON & SPA84 Westlake Road, #112 Hardy540-7194247 westlakesalonandspa.comFull-service hair care services, manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, gift certificates

H O L I D A y G I f T G u I D E • PA M P E R I N G


WiFi available*exam and x-rays are valued at $182.00

Complete Family& CosmetiC Dentistry eriC J. smith, DDs, pC540-297-7737 • www.ericjsmithdds.com 4860 Rucker Rd Suite 3, Moneta, VA 24121

From now until December 15th, we are offering all new patients a complementary exam and X-rays* if you bring in a new unwrapped toy. All donations will benefit the United States Marine Corp. Reserve Toys For Tots. Let us come together this holiday season to help those in need.

Looking For A Great Dentist?...

Free Exam & X-Rays

540.721.9117 | westlakeheatingandair.comLicensed–Insured–Bonded

WESTLAKEHEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Get A High-Efficiency System For As Little As $179/Mo. (Qualified applicants only. Certain restrictions apply.)

Mom, please don’t forget!I hope mom remembered to call

Westlake Heating & Air Conditioningto clean the air inside the house.

CALL TODAY FOR AN

ADDED BONUS-VALUED AT UP

TO $1,000!


Your bank is here.

MeMber FDIC

Convenient Locations in Franklin County:

Rocky Mount Main Office 400 Old Franklin Turnpike 540-489-3400

Westlake Towne Center Smith Mountain Lake 540-721-1600

Southlake Office Union Hall 540-576-1218

www.fcbva.com

While the landscape of the mortgage industry has changed dramatically over the past few years, one thing has remained unwavering – our commitment to helping homebuyers get the financing they need. Local residents have turned to Debbie Scott for expert mortgage advice for more than 20 years. Call Debbie today at 489-3476 to discuss how Franklin Community Bank can help you get the home of your dreams.

You want a bank that still believes in Home, Sweet Home.

Debbie Scott Mortgage Officer

New Homes, Renovations, Additions, Commercial for Lynchburg, Bedford & Smith Mountain Lake areas

• Over 30 years experience• Earthcraft certified builder

• Quality that will exceed your expectations• No job too large or too small

434-525-0072www.DeitzLillyBuilders.com

Jewelers

The diamond of your dreams is waiting in Antwerp, Belgium.Let us bring it home for you.

Phone: 540.721.2210 84 Westlake Rd., Ste. 103 Hardy, VA 24101

Phone: 540.483.5191 346 Franklin St.

Rocky Mt., VA 24151

“I’m Waiting”“Diamond Importer

of the Year”


GLAM CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE16483 Moneta RoadMoneta540-297-4240Consignment women’s clothing

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF THE VALLEY13697 B.T. Washington Hwy. #100, Moneta540-719-1503goodwill.orgThrift store offering discount used clothing, shoes, accessories and home décor items

HAYWOOD’S JEWELERS - Westlake84 Westlake Road#103, Hardy540-721-2210 haywoodsjewelers.com All range of jewelry items, gems, bridal sets, giftware, watches, clocks and selected designers

KARA’S CLOSET16545 Moneta Road Moneta | 540-296-1110 Specialty women’s clothing store offering casual to formal looks and name-brand designs, shoes and accessories

LAKESIDE EMBROIDERY70 Scruggs Road, #101Moneta | 540-719-2600 Embroidery, direct-to-garment printing and heat transfer services, embellishments

LIL BO TEEK CHILDREN’S STORE130 Scruggs Road, #104 Moneta | 540-719-8335Gently used clothing, furniture and equipment

MATHERLY CRAFTERS130 Scruggs Road, #102 Moneta | 540-238-1743Handmade purses, jewelry, knitted scarves, wooden bowls, wall hangings

PACABELLA AND PINEVIEW FARM ALPACAS214 Pineview Drive Hardy | 540-890-8364 pineviewfarmalpacas.com Hats, scarves, socks, gloves and pashminas made from 100-percent baby alpaca fiber

THE SHOPPE14559 Moneta Road Moneta | 540-297-8400 theshoppeskateshop.comSkateboarding gear, accessories and related apparel

WESTLAKE JEWELRY12787 B.T. Washington Hwy. #104, Hardy540-721-3366westlakejewelry.comAll range of jewelry items including gold and silver guitar picks, ladies’ and men’s jewelry, wedding sets, watches, specialty collections

BRIDGEWATER SPORTSWEAR16430 B.T. Washington Hwy. # 9, Moneta540-721-1040 bridgewaterplaza.com Casual clothing, swimsuits, SML T-shirts, sweatshirts and accessories for men, women and children

GABRIEL’S HALES FORD OUTLET14112 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-719-1893 Name-brand clothing items and accessories for men, women and children

GINGER’S JEWELRY16525 B.T. Washington Hwy. #2, Moneta540-777-3773 gingersjewelryonline.comAll range of jewelry items, including specialty jewelry lines 1928 Boutique, Jacqueline Kennedy Collection, The Private Collection, Town and Country Collection

H O L I D A y G I f T G u I D E • C L O T H I N G & A C C E S S O R I E S


A SHADE BRIGHTER1123 Celebration Ave. Moneta540-297-6440 affordablehomeoutlet.com Home decor, furniture, gift items, children’s items, pet products, clothing and accessories

ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES AND PROMOTIONS (ASAP)16430 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-719-9100 | rvasap.comScreen printing, vinyl banners, promotional products, balloons, embroidery

ANTIQUE MALL AT MAYBERRY1123 Celebration Ave., #103 Moneta540-871-0321 Antiques, art, repurposed furnishings

ARTFULLY FRAMED AT THE LAKE13699 B.T. Washington #202 Moneta540-721-1218 Custom picture framing and gallery featuring local artists

BLACKWATER NURSERY21367 Virgil Goode Hwy.Rocky Mount540-334-3415Trees, shrubs, landscaping, hardscaping (patios, ponds), Christmas trees

DIAMOND HILL GENERAL STORE1017 Diamond Hill Road Moneta540-297-9309 diamondhillgeneralstore.net Country store offering gifts items, home decor and locally made products; wine shop, garden center and deli

EFLAME LIGHTINGeflamelighting.comEnvironmentally friendly bulbs for outdoor lighting that provide the appearance of a flickering gas flame

EMERSON CREEK POTTERY1068 Pottery Lane Bedford540-297-7524emersoncreekpottery.com Factory outlet offering hand-made, hand-painted pottery crafted on-site; personalization available

ENVISIONS DISTINCTIVE INTERIORS, INC.7005 B.T. Washington Hwy., Suite C | Wirtz540-719-1500envisionsva.comResidential interior design services; flooring, furniture and custom window treatments

FERGUSON ENTERPRISES, INC.75 Builders Pride Drive Hardy 540-721-2410ferguson.comPlumbing wholesale items, including pipes, valves, fittings, waterworks, heating and cooling equipment

GIFTS AHOY16430 B.T. Washington Hwy., #15 | Moneta540-721-5303Lake-themed gift and home decor Vera Bradley items; Spartina purses, troll beads and other jewelry

BLINDS AND BEYOND BY MORTIME400 Scruggs Road, #700 Moneta540-721-1880 blindsatsmithmountainlake.com Blinds, shades, shutters, rugs, fabrics, solar window films, Eclipse awnings

BRIAN J. HART GALLERY AND CUSTOM FRAME SHOP25184 Virgil H. Goode Hwy. Boones Mill540-493-8546buycollegeart.comLimited-edition prints of college and university campuses as well as football staudiums and basketball arenas by local artist; custom framing

BROOKS MILL WINERY6221 Brooks Mill RoadWirtz | 540-721-5215 brooksmillwinery.com Locally produced fruit wine; gift shop

CAPPS HOME BUILDING CENTER13700 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-721-2276 | shopcapps.comBuilding supply center offering a full range of products, including hardware, paint, lumber, tools, doors and windows, gardening supplies, outdoor furniture

CLEAR POOLS300 B Old Franklin Turnpike Rocky Mount540-489-5556 Equipment, chemicals and accessories for pools, hot tubs, spas and saunas

DESIGNER SOLUTIONS, INC.13699 B.T. Washington Hwy., Suite 204 Moneta540-719-1266 designersolutionsinc.comFull-service interior design for residential and commercial offering floor coverings, accessories, window treatments and decor

H O L I D A y G I f T G u I D E • H O M E & G A R D E N


Holiday EventsSaturday,

November 26Santa Comes to

Bridgewater Plaza -1 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday November 26 & 27

Christmas Open House Special Shopping Discounts & Free

Gift Wrapping

Saturday & Sunday, December 10 & 11

MIA KATRIN Jewelry Trunk Show

BRIDGEWATER PLAZA Lower Level

Moneta, VA 24121OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

(540) 721-1596 www.thelittlegallerysml.com

Artist L. Diane Johnson

HOLIDAY SHOPPING A L L H A N D C R A F T E D I N A M E R I C A

We have a beautiful selection of handcrafted jewelry, glass, pottery

and fine art – the perfect gift for that special someone

AND CARPET GALLERY

INTRODUCINGTHE EUROPEAN

FARMHOUSE COLLECTION

Kris Willard, ASID

540.721.8354interiorsbykris.com

Stop By AndSee Our

Christmas Decorations!


Snazzy Screen Solutions540-871-0373

See in-person demos of our products! • SnazzyScreenSolutions.com

Unique Solutions for Your Home Enjoyment

Retractable Door Screens

Drop-Down Shades/Screens

Screens EnclosuresAwnings

Aluminum Railings

Add AMBIANCE to your walkways, decks and docks! GO GREEN, with the eFlame bulb. Stand out from your neighbors by adding beauty and elegance to your lake property. The eFlame has the appearance of a Real FLICKERING Gas Flame! Replaces the standard WEDGE BASED BULB in just seconds. Annual electricity cost for 10 eFlame bulbs is only $5.30, with a bulb life of 20 YEARS!! APPLY CODE “SMLLKR0910” FOR 20% OFF

Buy eFlame bulbs online atwww.eflamelighting.com

“Family Business sinCe 1972”

540.721.1833186 Lakewood Forest Rd. • Moneta, VA. 24121

irrigation Design installation, service and Outdoor lighting


GRAND HOME FURNISHINGS OUTLET71 Parkcrest DriveHardy540-721-2227 grandhomefurnishings.comHome furnishings retailer offering collections for every room, entertainment pieces, children’s furniture, outdoor items and mattress sets

HICKORY HILL VINEYARD, LLC1722 Hickory Cove Lane Moneta540-296-1393smlwine.comWine tasting, gift shop, tours, scenic picnic area, music series

INTERIORS BY KRIS13020 B.T. Washington Hwy. Hardy540-721-8354interiorsbykris.comResidential and commercial interior design; flooring, wallpaper, furnishings, accessories, fabrics, window treatments, blinds, fine art

KITTY’S LITTLE BOOK SHOPPE11858 Moneta Road Moneta540-297-7740New and used books; collectibles; books on tape

LAKE HOUSE BEANERY16430 B.T. Washington Hwy.Moneta540-719-9100 lakehousebeanerysml.comHome decor, jewelry, clothing, coffee, beer and wine

LAKE WICKER & PATIO13697 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta | 540-719-2198 sandybeachesfurniture.comPatio and outdoor furniture, wicker and rattan, cast aluminum, umbrellas, murphy beds, grills

LAKER BEVERAGE & TOBACCO13860 B.T. Washington Hwy., #103 | Moneta540-719-3525lakerbev.comSpecialty wine, beer, tobacco products, fine cigars, gourmet food items, food and gift baskets

LAKESCAPES NURSERYSouthlake11509 Old Franklin TurnpikeUnion Hall | 540-576-2781 lakescapesnursery.com

Westlake13080 B.T. Washington Hwy. Hardy | 540-719-0028 lakescapesnursery.comFull-service landscaping services; nursery with all range of plants and gardening supplies

LEO GRANDE VINEYARDS AND WINERY1343 Wingfield Drive Goode | 540-586-4066 leograndewinery.com Locally produced wine

MONETA FARM & HOME CENTER11739 Moneta Road Moneta540-297-5558monetafhc.comHome building and gardening center offering construction and farm supplies, lawn and garden items, power equipment, pet and equine supplies

MOUNTAIN TREASURES FLORIST & GIFTS13699 B.T. Washington Hwy. Hardy540-721-0092 Flower arrangements, wire services for out-of-town orders, cards, fruit baskets, gift items

P.A.C. INTERIORS50 Firstwatch Drive, #103 Moneta540-719-0001pacinteriors.comInterior design services, flooring, fabrics, lighting, furniture, outdoor items, wallcoverings, fixtures and other home decor items

PEAKS OF OTTER WINERY2122 Sheep Creek Road Bedford540-586-3707 peaksofotterwinery.com Tastings of locally produced wines; gift shop

RADIO SHACK70 Scruggs RoadMoneta540-721-0017radioshack.comElectronic devices, accessories, phones, batteries, audio and video equipment

RM COMMUNICATIONS / VERIzON WIRELESS13697 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-721-5298verizonwireless.com Verizon Wireless, DirectTV, Dish Network, Wildblue satellite internet products and accessories

SAVOY-LEE WINERY5800 Johnson Mountain Road Huddleston540-297-9275savoy-lee.comTastings of locally produced wines; gift shop, tours, picnic area



SMITH MOUNTAIN BUILDING SUPPLYSouthlake12126 Old Franklin TurnpikeUnion Hall540-576-3797 smithmountainbuilding.com

Westlake13080 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-721-3453 smithmountainbuilding.com Building supply center offering a full range of building products, including hardware, paint, lumber, tools, doors and windows

SMITH MOUNTAIN FLOWERS14477 Moneta Road Moneta540-297-6524 smithmountainflowers.netFloral arrangements and accessories

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE GIFTS16440 B.T. Washington Hwy., #202Moneta540-719-4438smith-mountain-lake-gifts.com Flameless aromatic organic candles and other gift items

SML DISCOVERY SHOP400 Scruggs Road, #500 Moneta540-721-0050cancer.orgDonated home furnishings, furniture, art and collectibles, appliances, sporting goods, jewelry, books and music; sales benefit American Cancer Society

SML GALLERY13366 B.T. Washington Hwy., #6Moneta | 540-719-0015smlgallery.comPhoto studio; sales of fine art; custom framing

SNAzzY SCREEN SOLUTIONS990 Lakemount Drive Moneta540-871-0373 snazzyscreensolutions.comDrop-down shades and screens, retractable door screens, screened enclosures, awnings, aluminum railings

THE COTTAGE GATE84 Westlake Road, #113 Hardy540-721-5622 thecottagegateonline.comHome decor, women’s boutique, seasonal gift items, jewelry, gourmet food items, toys, games

THE GENERAL STORE213 Scruggs RoadMoneta540-721-3009generalstoresml.com Virginia-made foods and products, engraved gift items, gift baskets, fabric, local art, toys, quilts

THE LITTLE GALLERY16430 B.T. Washington Hwy. Moneta540-721-1596 thelittlegallerysml.com Art gallery featuring fine art from more than 200 artists, hand-crafted pottery, glass, jewelry and more

TOMAHAWK MILL WINERY9221 Anderson Mill Road Chatham | 434-432-1063tomahawkmill.comLocally produced wine

TROCADERO11970 Old Franklin TurnpikeUnion Hall540-576-2220 Fine furnishings, specialty decor items, upholstery, gourmet foods, wine, gift baskets

VITAzEN12787 B.T. Washington Hwy. #103, Hardy540-721-9365vitazen.netHealth and nutrition products, including skin-care items, vitamins, homeopathic remedies, weight management products, pet products, bath and body items

WHITE ROCK VINEYARDS & WINERY2117 Bruno DriveGoodview | 540-890-3359whiterockwines.com Locally produced wines

WILLOW TREE NURSERY, INC.300 Old Mountain Road Penhook540-576-3031willowtreesml.comAnnuals, perennials, herbs, shrubs, trees, accent plants; gift shop



540-721-1880400 Scruggs Roadwww.blindsatsmithmountainlake.com

BLINDS • SHADES • SHUTTERS • AWNINGS • SOLAR FILM

Make the season merry with new window treatments from

Blinds & Beyond by Mortime!

54

0.7

19

.34

16

7188

Boo

ker

T W

ashi

ngto

n H

wy,

Wirt

z, V

A. 2

4184

• o

asis

-cab

inet

s.co

m

At Oasis Cabinets, we offer not only beautiful custom cabinets, but turnkey kitchen remodeling from experts with more than 50 combined years in the building industry. We have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right and within budget. In addition to affordable remodeling solutions, we also offer cabinetry for new construction. Call today for a free consultation.

VZ VitaZen

“ZEN”sationalChristmas Scents!Christmas Scents!

From Diffusers and Soy Beads to Bean Pod Candles, we have the all of

the classic Christmas scents!

For A Healthy Body, Mind & Soul...

“ZEN”sationalFrom Diffusers and Soy Beads to Bean Pod Candles, we have the all of

the classic Christmas scents!

For A Healthy Body, Mind & Soul...12787 B.T. Washington Hwy., SML

540.721.9365 • www.VitaZen.net

BUY 3, get one FREE!

*Limited to Beanpod products of equal or lesser value.O�er expires 12/24/11.


Nov 26th 7:00pm to 9:00pmBook your seat now!!

Help our local children in need!!Call now to enter your boat in the parade.

Book your 2011 Christmas Party with us!!

Give a Cruise for ChristmasGift CertifiCates available

Call for more information or reservations540-297-7100

www.vadarecruises.com

14th annual Flotilla For toys Boat Parade

Virginia Dare’s

336.992.2888

15% off new Patio Enclosure or

Awning with this ad

Don't Just Renovate Your Home.

Rejuvenate Your Life.

Manufacturers- Sunrooms. Screen Enclosures. Solariums. Replacement Windows. Durasol Awnings. Patio Furniture. Blinds and Shades

Patio Enclosures has been building and creating beautiful living spaces since 1966. We have enjoyed being apart of homeowners' lives and strive to continue to provide our customers with a lifetime warranty

and the best technology on the market. Call today to start designing your personalized sunroom that fits your lifestyle and budget!

Voted SML’s Best Dock Builder by readers of theSmith Mountain Laker magazine in 2005 - 2011 • FREE ESTIMATES!

4

Serving Smith Mountain Lake for over 35 years, Turner’s Building has grown into the largest, most well-know dock builder on the lake. From simple additions to the dock of your dreams, Turners Building has the experience you need. Now offering full-service deck construction and renovation services, as well. Our quality and customer service are second to none.

Quality You Can SeeExperience You Can Trust!


BRIDGEWATER MARINA & BOAT RENTALS16410 B.T. Washington Hwy.Moneta540-721-1639bwmarina.comLake-themed sportswear, shoes and accessories; sun and boating accessories, SML souvenirs, snacks

CURVES400 Scruggs Road#1200, Moneta540-721-7032curves.comGym memberships

HOT SHOTS FAMILY FUN CENTER13360 B.T. Washington Hwy.Moneta540-719-1547hotshot-sml.comArcade, bumper boats, mini-golf; gift certificates

HUGHES MARINE SERVICE3815 U.S. Highway 29Danville434-836-0052 hughesmarineservice.comSales of new and used boats, boating accessories and watersports gear

JAzzERCISE13105 B.T. Washington Hwy.Hardy540-721-1988jazzercise.comGym memberships

MAYBERRY DRIVE-IN & DINER1696 White House RoadMoneta540-206-4485mayberrydrivein.comGift certificates

SML OUTDOORS16503 B.T. Washington Hwy., Suite D, | Moneta540-719-1549smithmountainlakemarine.comOutdoor sporting equipment and accessories including hunting, fishing, and camping gear

SML WELLNESS & FITNESS95 Westlake Road Hardy540-719-0008smlwellnessandfitness.comPersonal training

T.J.’S SPORTING GOODS1100 Celebration AveMoneta540-297-4447tjsportingoods.comSporting goods and outdoor equipment, including firearms, camping supplies, fishing tackle, kayak and canoe sales and rentals

VIRGIL NAFF SEADOO1101 Kemper StreetLynchburg434-528-0462virgilnaff.comRoadsters, scooters, utility vehicles, watercraft, ATVs, motorcycles, side-by-sides

VIRGINIA DARE CRUISES & MARINA3619 Airport RoadMoneta540-297-7100vadarecruises.comCruise gift certificates; clothing and SML novelty items

VIRGINIA OUTDOORSMAN40 Village Springs DriveHardy540-721-4867virginiaoutdoorsman.comSporting goods and outdoor equipment, including fishing gear, towables, water toys, life jackets, firearms and shooting supplies

WAKE zONE WATERSPORTS16440 B.T. Washington Hwy., # 301Moneta540-721-9253 Wake boarding and water-skiing equipment; swimwear, apparel and accessories

WEBSTER MARINE CENTER1185 Mills RoadMoneta540-297-5228webstermarine.comBoat and personal watercraft sales and service, boating accessories

WESTLAKE CINEMA84 Westlake Road, #117Hardy540-721-6314westlakecinema.comGift cards for tickets and concessions

YMCA - Moneta Area Family1039 Mayberry Crossing DriveMoneta540-296-1059bedfordymca.orgGym memberships

YMCA - Smith Mountain Lake293 FirstWatch DriveMoneta540-721-9622 franklincountyymca.orgGym memberships

H O L I D A y G I f T G u I D E • S P O R T S , O U T D O O R S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Lakefront fine Dining awarD-winning Cuisine

540.721.3028 • www.TheLandingSML.comLocated At Bernard’s Landing Resort off Route 616 (Scruggs Rd) at Smith Mountain Lake

Visit Our Website To Meet The Chef, Browse Our Complete Menus, and Preview Upcoming Events At The Landing!

Stars of the Lake-Top Restaurant (Platinum Award) Discover SML Magazine

Best Lake Area Restaurant (Platinum Award) 2011 Dining Awards, The Roanoker

MONDAY NIGHT IS STEAK NIGHTJoin us for a 12oz Aged Ribeye Steak Dinner $20

BRUNO'S GASTROPUB'S FIRST BEER DINNERGet over the hump with our first Beer Dinner Wednesday, November 16 Registrationis required and space is limited. Call 540721-3028 for details.

THURSDAY NIGHT IT IS BTZ Our Private Label" WINE NIGHT Choose from BTZ Napa Valley Cabernet or BTZ Russian River Chardonnay $20Or bring in your own bottle and enjoy $5 CORKAGE

COOKING WITH BRUNO RETURNS IN JANUARYRegistration Begins December 1st! Cooking classes make great Holiday Gifts! Call 540-721-3028 for more information. Full class schedule to be posted onwww.thelandingsml.com by December 1st!

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES & CATERINGLet us help you with your Holiday Party! Book an event at The Landing Restaurant or Bruno's GastroPub! Having event offsite we cater! Call 540-721-3028 today for more information!

NEW YEAR'S EVE AT THE LANDINGJoin us for a night of amazing dining to ring in the New Year! Lots of specials and Live Music with The Ben Trout Trio in The GastroPub!

BEERS WITH BRUNOJoin Bruno every Saturday in the GastroPub from 3pm-5pm for Beer School. Bruno will explore at least 5 different Beers and tasty nibbles. Registration is required & space is limited. Call 540-721-3028 for details.

Hours:Dinner:

Thurs-Mon 5pm for dinnerCLoseD tuesDaY & weDnesDaY

*** SUNDAY BAR OPENS AT 1PM***

Reservations Recommended

www.TheLandingSML.com

Winner of 9 Best of SML Awards for 2011 including Best Chef (Platinum)

Best Place to Come by Boat (Platinum) Smith Mountain Laker Magazine

Come and check out what is happening at The Landing!

*** Text to Win a FREE Dessert - Every 25th Person Wins! ***Text Brunos to 66782


S t o r y b y L i n d S e y W a g n o nP h o t o g r a P h y b y h u o n g f r a L i n

Home

Right atDrink in some farm-fresh goodness at Homestead Creamery


Smith Mountain Laker Magazine isn’t the only lake-area icon celebrating a decade of achievement in 2011. Just a few miles away in Burnt Chimney, Homestead Creamery is looking back on its own 10-year journey.

In 2001, local farmers Donnie Montgomery and Dave Bowers embarked on an entrepreneurial mission to supplement their farms’ earnings. Today, Homestead Creamery products are being sold in grocery stores up and down the East Coast, into the Midwest and several northeastern states through Kroger, Whole Foods Market, Fresh Market, Earth Fare and other food distributors. Montgomery said he considered creating his own products long before necessity demanded the endeavor.

“I had thought before about how it would be interesting to try to process our own milk, but at the time it was about trying to save the family farm,” he said. “There were a lot of people moving into the area and that made it hard to have enough land in

one spot for a big farm. We decided if we diversified a bit, processed our own products, maybe we’d give added value to our farms.”

Added value began with processing all-natural milk and building a business model based on the trending buy-local consumer movement.

“There are a lot of people looking for local food. We wanted the business to have the ideal of a small, local company, and we want to keep it that way.” said Montgomery.

The vision inspired the Mayberry-like method of delivering glass-bottled milk to customers’ doorsteps and a welcoming company name.

“We sat around a table, all the owners and my son, and we talked about what we were going to name the place,” said Montgomery. “I still have the pad of paper we used to write down the ideas. We wanted a homey name and Homestead Creamery had a good ring to it.”

Before long, Homestead Creamery was more than a few milk truck routes. The owners bought and converted a friend’s meat-processing plant into a dairy-processing center and turned the property’s house into a retail store compete with deli counter and ice cream display. Between the plant, milk-delivery routes, office and store, the business employs 30 people.

Jeff Beckner, delivery and retail manager, said the site sees a steady flow of traffic all year, including a stream of educational tours.

The vision inspired the Mayberry-like method of delivering glass-bottled milk to customers’ doorsteps

and a welcoming company name.

KIM

DIL

LON


LEFT Homestead Creamery’s Farm Market in Burnt Chimney features the company’s dairy products for sale along with hot lunch items.

BELOW Company co-owner Donnie Montgomery (right) and Jeff Beckner, delivery and retail manager

RIGHT Old-fashioned butter is a popular item at Homestead Creamery.

WANT TO GO? HOMESTEAD CREAMERY

Address 7254 Booker T. Washington Hwy. in Burnt Chimney

Phone 540.721.2045

Hours Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

savor | RESTAURANTS

The Blackwater Café

4730 Scruggs Rd. Moneta, VA 24121 • 540-721-4333 www.theblackwatercafe.com

“Where Your Dining Experience is Our Priority”

Come by and see why The Blackwater Cafe will soon become your favorite dining destination!

Award Winning Restaurant for Best Steak, Best Burger, Seafood, Chef, Breakfast, Best Dessert, Wine Selection, Best Cocktail & Best Customer Service.

Reservations Recommended

JOIN US FOR OUR

Wine Dinners, Sept. - May AND OUR

Monthly Jazz Dinners featuring the

Charlie Perkinson Trio


TRY THISBabybru Sandwich

Turkey, white American cheese, bacon, tomatoes, onions and jalapenos drizzled lightly with ranch dressing with chips or macaroni salad. Cost is $4.99 or $7.99 for a larger portion. (Pictured right)

Ice Cream

Choose from a wide range of flavors, including the seasonal peppermint, eggnog, pumpkin, ginger bread and apple pie. One scoop served in a sugar cone for $3.49.

Milk

All-natural milk packaged in Homestead Creamery’s signature glass bottles. White milk is $4.89 for a half gallon and flavored varieties (chocolate, strawberry, orange cream) as well as buttermilk are $5.39. The bottles can be returned for a $2 refund.

savor | RESTAURANTS

New menu items. Same attitude. Featuring soulful samplings like:

Skillet fried mac and cheese w/ an over-easy eggMoroccan curried chickpeas

Cheesy Damburgers and so much more...

(Rocky Mount’s ‘HIP’ Cafe)

where hip and healthy vegetarian cuisine

crashed into midnight munchie food and

never looked back!

315 Franklin StreetHistoric Downtown Rocky Mount, VAP: 540.489.VIBE (8423)F: 540.489.4900Hours: Tu–W (10am–3pm)Th–F (10am–9pm) Saturdays (10am–3pm)www.ediblevibe.com 50 First Watch Drive #101 • Moneta, VA

540.719.1212 • jonathansatsml.com

a passion to serve!

Experience something fresh at SML. Jonathan’s menu includes a combination of unique American and Asian inspired dishes including Steaks, Shrimp and Grits, S.M.L macaroni and Cheese, Pasta, and Seafood, plus the freshest collection of Chinese favorites you can find. Also... Jonathan’s Restaurant offers the best buffet in town starting with Breakfast Buffet (Wed-Sat) at 7:00 am-10:30 am, Lunch Buffet (Mon-Fri) at 11:30 am-2:30 pm and Sunday Brunch at 11:00 am-3:00 pm. Please make your reservations for the holidays.


“School children will come through a lot in the spring, but also home-school groups, daycare centers and senior citizen groups will come through to see the plant,” said Beckner. “It’s another way we can serve the community.”

In 10 years, the Homestead Creamery line has expanded to include several milk flavors, including the popular chocolate and seasonal eggnog, a wide variety of ice creams and yogurt.

“People can come here and get a sandwich for lunch, buy local products and sit and eat our ice cream outside on a nice day,” said Beckner. “Favorite ice cream flavors are the butter pecan, coffee espresso and black raspberry.”

The brand gives nod to the tastes of the holidays by producing special seasonal products such as gingerbread, peppermint or eggnog-flavored ice cream from October through December. Beckner said some bosses treat their employees to Homestead Creamery eggnog as a holiday gift.

Montgomery said another way they like to be involved in the community is by attending locally sponsored charity events and donating part of

their proceeds to organizations such as the March of Dimes. An annual Customer Appreciation Days event offers hayrides, free samples and a petting zoo.

“We have had tremendous local support ever since we opened,” Montgomery said. “It is rewarding to be able to do something that somebody can enjoy. We’re really proud of the business.”

ABOVE A machine fills glass bottles with all-natural milk at Homestead Creamery’s dairy processing center in Burnt Chimney.

RIGHT The company sells quarts of ice cream in a variety of traditional and seasonal ice-cream flavors.


luxury pontoon boats

authorized Mercury/Mercruiser Dealer

Boat Sales and Service Slips, Storage, Dry Dock

Ships Store, Ethanol-Free Gas

500 shoreline Cir

540.721.3664

Call us for your winterizing

needs and check our website or facebook

for pricing and specials.

now Carrying

500 shoreline Cir, Moneta, VabaysideMarinasMl.com

540.721.1699 l 540.721.71696051 Burnt Chimney Road, Wirtz VA 24148Email: [email protected] • www.dillondocks.com

MICHAEL DILLONCUSTOM DOCKS

Call us to plan your dream dock today!

4438 Pheasant Ridge Road, SW Roanoke Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm

Directions: 220S to Left at Hunting Hills Plaza. Follow Signs to Model

“Our condo in Pheasant Ridge was a great investment as part of our future estate. It is one of the friendliest places that we have ever lived and not having to do maintenance has given us so much freedom. Our condo is open and spacious, convenient and everything we had hoped it would be. We only wanted to make 1 more move and knew this was it.”Joanne and Keith Painter

LET US SELL YOUR HOME!Our average time on market is 3 to 6 months. We will

provide a professional market analysis and advertising plan. Plus we will pay $5,000 towards closing costs.

Pat LawsonOfc: 540-776-6303Cell: 540-204-6024

Howard PackettOfc: 540-776-0526Cell: 540-761-6568

Call Pat Lawson or Howard Packett to Schedule at Tour


Story by Amy HAnek • PHotogrAPHy by Huong FrAlin And courteSy oF bArbArA ottinger

A s temperatures drop around Smith Mountain Lake, many residents may discover invitations for holiday parties arriving in their mailboxes. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza or another tradition, a holiday shindig is simply not complete without magical decorations, fabulous food and good friends.

Barbara and Jim Ottinger are veteran holiday hosts with a reputation for throwing a particularly festive party each year at their home in Mariners Landing. “Our home is open on the first Saturday in December for our Christmas open house,” Barbara Ottinger said. “For us, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” If you have visions of throwing your own holiday party this year, get started now planning distinctive invitations, a fantastic menu, festive decorations and memorable favors that will make you the hit of the neighborhood.

HolidaysHooked

on the

savor | ENTERTAINING


I n v I t a t I o n s Invitations should be creative and personal. The Ottingers

find inspiration for theirs with photographs taken at the previous year’s party – yes, an entire year in advance. Barbara explained that it snowed during their 2010 party and a snowy picture will be incorporated into this year’s invitation.

Barbara also makes sure her invitations are sent out on Oct. 31, giving her guests three full weeks to respond. Remember, your friends may receive many holiday invitations so it’s important to give guests plenty of time to arrange their calendars.

Alison Baird has been attending the Ottingers’ party since its inception in 2002 and said she looks forward to receiving her invitation every year.

“Barbara does gorgeous calligraphy and that really makes it special,” said Baird, adding that she enjoys all of Barbara’s personal touches, including the festive decor.

D e c k I n g t h e h a l l s No matter what decorations you choose this holiday

season, focus on incorporating details that flow together to present an overall picture or story to guests. The Ottingers keep things simple, but decorate elaborately.

Barbara starts with luminaries placed along her long

driveway. The simple and inexpensive decorations set a tone of warmth and welcome guests as they approach the party. The Ottingers incorporate a different theme in each room of their home and include Christmas trees – some small, some large – decorated to fit each theme.

“The wine cellar hosts a tree with glittery corks,” Barbara said. Other themed trees are decorated with angels, animals,

seashells and toys. It’s a way to share life experiences with their guests, Barbara said. The seashells are hand-picked by the couple during their travels to Florida. The toy ornaments – some more than 60 years old – were made by Jim and Barbara’s mothers as well as their children.

Kay Preston, another regular guest of the Ottinger’s, looks forward to seeing what new decorations will be added each year, but confessed the beach-themed room has always been her favorite.

“It’s so whimsical and just so darn cute,” she said. Barbara, who used to work in the retail design business,

gave credit to her equally Christmas-crazy husband for making the decorating process so easy. Every fall, Jim organizes the decor for each room so that Barbara can focus on the fun part – decorating.

“I could not put any of this together without him,” she said.


LEFT The tree that occupies the wine room at Jim and Barbara Ottinger’s home is decorated with glittery corks and other wine-themed ornaments.

FAR LEFT An elf sits atop a box decorating the Ottinger’s living room mantle.

BELOW The names of party guests, hand-written by Barbara Ottinger, add a personal touch to this Santa decoration.


Professional, courteous service since [email protected]

Professional, courteous service since [email protected]

LAKE INN MOTELSmith Mountain Lake

45 Enterprise Lane, Hardy, VA 24101540-721-3383 - 888-466-LAKE (5253)

www.lakeinnmotel.com* Free Wireless High Speed Internet

* Pets allowed in Designated Rooms -Extra charge

* Located at Westlake Corner Rt. 122 & Rt. 616

* Centrally Located to Restaurants, Shops, Grocery, Minigolf, Children’s Activities, Golf Courses, Real Estate and Marinas

* Free Continental Breakfast

* Fisherman Friendly, Spacious Parking Lot

* HBO, Coffee Makers, Telephones, Hair Dryers, Refrigerators and Microwaves in all rooms

Laker Media

CALL 540.721.4675 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Advertising that WORKS!

SML PRESSURE CLEANING by GRICE BROTHERS


F a b u l o u s F o o D v s . F r e e D o m Many hosts believe they must choose between

offering fabulous food and having freedom from the kitchen to enjoy their own party. The Ottingers prove you can have both.

Barbara said she keeps the food for her holiday party simple, but tasty. That means finding recipes that can be made in advance like herb-roasted turkey, butternut squash soup and warm spaetzle salad. Her signature dish is peach-brandied meatballs, a semi-homemade recipe borrowed from friend Phyllis Edwards.

“Those meatballs are awesome, but not as awesome as Jim and Barbara’s hospitality,” said Mary Lou McDonald, who said she looks forward to attending the party each December.

When it comes to libations, the Ottingers sometimes have family around to bartend for guests. But for those without help, Christmas Cranberry Punch is an easy and colorful option that can be made in advance. Combine 2 cups of vodka, 4 cups of cranberry juice, 1½ cups of lime juice, 2 cups of water and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Pour into a festive bunch bowl and garnish with fresh cranberries, cinammon sticks and thinly sliced oranges.

h o l I D a y g I F t s The holidays are a time for sharing gifts

to show loved ones how much they are appreciated. Party favors are a great way to thank guests, leaving them with tasty treats or small keepsakes to take home.

Barbara said she usually makes party favors, which, in the past, have included candies and cookies. This year, she plans to share homemade truffles.

Suzi Czerenski, a regular guest of the Ottingers, considers these gifts the “frosting on the cake. … It’s just another added wonderful treat.”


PARTY MENUDownload all the recipes at smithmountainlake.com/lifestyle. Christmas Cranberry Punch

Peach-Brandied Meatballs

Butternut Squash Soup

Herb-Roasted Turkey

Warm Spaetzle Salad

Truffles

If you host or know of someone who hosts a particularly festive or unusual party at Smith Mountain Lake, we want to hear about it! E-mail the details to [email protected].

Party favors are a great way to thank guests, leaving them with tasty treats or small

keepsakesto take home.


t r u F F l e scourteSy of amanda breSLin

1 full-size package of chocolate sandwich cookies 1 8-ounce block of cream cheese, softened2 bars of semi-sweet chocolate

g Place the whole package of cookiess in a blender and blend until finely crushed. Reserve some for garnish. Add the remaining crumbs to the softened cream cheese in a large bowl and cream together.

g Melt the chocolate in a small bowl.

g Create 1-inch balls from the cream cheese mixture, dunk in melted chocolate and place on wax paper to cool.

g Sprinkle reserved cookie crumbs on top or drizzle with a darker chocolate.

r e c i p e

NEW! Daily Soup And Sandwiches

Now offering daily soup selections and a

wide selection of fresh sandwiches, featuring

Boar's Head meats and cheeses.

HOMESTEAD CREAMERY7254 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Wirtz, VA • 540-721-2045FALL/WINTER HOURS: Mon-Thur 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Fri-Sat 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Closed Sun


Sm

iT

h

mo

Un

Ta

in

L

ak

E

20

12

The Smith Mountain Laker will publish its 2012 SML Wedding Guide in the upcoming January/February issue. If you are an SML-area business that provides products or services in one of the categories listed, please submit the following information prior to Dec. 1 to receive a FREE listing.

Business name | ContaCt name | address | City Phone | e-mail address | Business weB site

e-mail to [email protected]

Wedding Guide Categories (limit 2)

• Attendant/Parent Gifts

• Cakes

• Catering

• Ceremony/Reception Venues

• Ceremony/Reception Rentals

• Flowers/Decorating

• Gowns and Alterations

• Honeymoon Planning

• Invitations, Programs and

Announcements

• Jewelry/Wedding Rings

• Limos

• Music

• Pampering/Hair/Makeup

• Photographers/Videographers

• Rehearsal Dinner Venues

• Tuxedos

• Wedding Plannersweddingguide

The Wedding Guide listing is FREE. If you would like information on placing an ad, please contact

advertising executive Tim Dye at

540-721-4675, ext. 409.


Social Seen1

3

2

4 5

6

1. PATTI O’BRYAN AND LIB WALKER

2. ALTHEA AND GARY STANLEY

3. ROGER MUELLER AND TOM NICHOLLS

4. CHRISTINE WATSTROM, MISS BLUE RIDGE OUTSTANDING TEEN

5. SUE GARRECHT ASSISTS WITH YOUTH JUDGING PROGRAM

6. GENE AND EMILY CHIANELLI

7. CHUCK MISTELE PILOTS MISS AMERICA IX

SML ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC BOAT SHOW

AND FESTIVAL Chilly weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of the hundreds of boating enthusiasts who turned out for the 21st SML Antique and Classic Boat Show and Festival on Sept. 17 at Mariners Landing. A record 52 antique boats were on display at the show, including Miss America IX, the speedboat racing great Gar Wood used in 1931 to set the world water speed record. Photography by Andie Gibson.

o u t & a B o u t

7


“ l a k e e f f e c t s ” s c R e e n i n G

1. SCOTTIE THOMPSON

2. RON CANADA

3. KRIS AND RON WILLARD

4. JANE, SARA ELIZABETH, SUE AND BILL TIMMINS

5. KATRINA GARIBALDI AND CHINAH JEWELL

6. BEN SAVAGE

7. MANLEY AND TRICIA JOHNSON, BRIDGET LYNCH AND KENNY RILEY

Cast and crew members as well as investors and invited guests walked the red carpet at Westlake Cinema on Oct. 7 for a screening of “Lake Effects,” an independent movie filmed at Smith Mountain Lake in the fall of 2010. Photography by Huong Fralin.

1

5

4

6

2 3

7


1 2

6

Big crowds were on hand for the 23rd SML Wine Festival Sept. 24-25 at LakeWatch Plantation. A fundraiser for the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce, the festival featured 26 Virginia wineries, 85 craft and food vendors as well as live music by Barefoot West and The Worx. Photography by Matt Brown.

social seen | OUT & ABOUT

4

3

5

1. ANDREW HIGGINS, ASHLEY SPENCER LEXI SCHJONNING, STEVE ANDREWS

2. APRIL WYATT AND BRENT HELMS

3. CHANCE PHILLIPS AND LAUREN WOOLDRIGE

4. NORMA SAFERIGHT, JACKIE AND JARRETT GRAHAM, CANDICE JONES, FREDDY GRAHAM, KAREN HODNETT AND WYATT JONES

5. NOELLE PERKINSON, RILEY HODGES, KATHRYN AND JASON TURNER

6. JESSICA GIBSON, COURTNEY CLARK, HEATHER WESTON

sm

l

Wi

ne

f

es

ti

Va

l


noV 2WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY | Enjoy a cruise and lunch aboard the Virginia Dare while a ranger from SML State Park discusses wildlife at the lake. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Virginia Dare Marina, Huddleston. 540.297.7100, vadarecruises.com

noV 4SMAC CONCERT | Scott Perry and the Front Porch Swing will perform acoustic/Americana/blues music at 7 p.m. at Trinity Ecumenical Parish, Moneta. Check web site for more details and ticket info. smithmountainartscouncil.com

noV 5SML FALL CHILI AND CRAFT FESTIVAL | Music, crafts and a competitive chili cook-off presented by the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce. $5. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Bridgewater Plaza. 540.721.1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com

BRIDAL EXPERIENCE | Bridal vendor showcase at Mariners Landing. Free. 540.297.4900, marinerslanding.com

WINERY OPEN HOUSE | Nov. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27 | Peaks of Otter Winery, Bedford. Noon-5 p.m. 540.586.3707, peaksofotterwinery.com

noV 11BARBERSHOP CHORUS CONCERT | Nov. 11-12 | The SML Harmeneers

will present “Harmony Hit Parade,” the group’s top songs of its past 16 shows, on Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 12 at 2 p.m. at Trinity Ecumentical Parish in Moneta. Featured quartet Bar None will also perform. Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door. 540.721.9600, smlharmeneers.com

noV 12ART & ARCHITECTURE SHOW | New event at the Sedalia Center in Big Island featuring cratsmen demonstrating and selling art as well as architects to help plan distinctive spaces. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Kids under 12 free. Concessions available for sale. 434.299.5080, sedaliacenter.org

noV 13FISHING TOURNAMENT | Nov. 13 and Nov. 20 | Central Virginia Bass Cast Tournament at Parkway Marina. Individual and team competition. $100 entry fee. 434.509.2024, parkwaymarina.com

noV 17CHARLIE PERKINSON TRIO | Live jazz at The Blackwater Cafe, Moneta. 6-9 p.m. 540.721.4333, theblackwatercafe.com

noV 18LAKESIDE SINGERS CONCERT | Nov. 18-19 | The local chorus will perform “Gospel Through the Ages” at Trinity Ecumenical Parsigh at 7 p.m. on Nov. 18 and 2 p.m. on Nov. 19. Check web

site for more details and ticket info. smithmountainartscouncil.com

noV 25WINERY OPEN HOUSE | Nov. 25-27 | Hickory Hill Vineyards & Winery, Moneta. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 540.296.1393, smlwine.com

noV 26SANTA AT BRIDGEWATER PLAZA |Santa arrives by boat to pose for photos and hear wish lists. 1 p.m. Free. 540.721.1596, thelittlegallerysml.com

VIRGINIA DARE FLOTILLA FOR TOYS |A lighted boat parade that kicks off the holiday season at SML while facilitating the collection of toys for Lake Christian Ministries. The Flotilla starts at 7 p.m. at Virginia Dare Marina in Moneta, cruises up the Bedford County side of the lake (circling by SML State Park where family activities are planned for the evening) to Bridgewater Plaza and then back down the Franklin County side. For more information, including how to enter your boat, become a sponsor or donate toys, call 540.297.7100 or visit vadarecruises.com.

N O V E M B E R

Calendar2 0 1 1

social seen | CALENDAR

Find more events

in Laker Weekly and online at

smithmountainlake.com!


dec 1HOLIDAY TREE DISPLAY | Dec. 1-31 | The Bedford Festival of Trees will feature trees decorated by various organizations on display at the Bedford Welcome Center. Visitors can vote ($1) for their favorite tree with proceeds benefiting local charities. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. On Fridays, the display is open until 9 p.m. with children’s activities, hot chocolate and cookies. Free. 540.587.5681, visitbedford.com

dec 2ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW | At the Artisan Center along the Crooked Road in Rocky Mount featuring fine art, wood, pottery, glass, quilts, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more. 2-8 p.m. Free. 540.482.0005, theartisancenteratcr.com

dec 3LIVING HISTORY EVENT | “An Old Virginia Christmas” at Booker T. Washington National Monument in Hardy will feature costumed interpretive lantern tours, light refreshments and entertainment. Free. 3-8 p.m. 540.721.2094, nps.gov/bowa

WINERY OPEN HOUSE | Dec. 3, 10, 17 | Hickory Hill Vineyards & Winery, Moneta. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 540.296.1393, smlwine.com

WINERY OPEN HOUSE | Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 | Peaks of Otter Winery, Bedford. Noon-5 p.m. 540.586.3707, peaksofotterwinery.com

dec 9HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAY | Dec. 9-31 | Drive through and enjoy the extensive decorations and approximately 50,000 lights that adorn the grounds and buildings at the Elks National Home in Bedford. Opens daily 5:30 p.m. through Dec. 31. Free. 540.586.8232, elkshome.org

COMEDY AT CHRISTMASTIME | Smith Mountain Arts Council’s Lake Players will present two performances based on the 1950s comedy sitcom “Ethel and Albert” at 5:30 p.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church, Moneta. $6 per person. 540.297.6680, smithmountainartscouncil.com

dec 11HISTORIC HOLIDAY TOUR | Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest will offer a tour of the property focusing on holiday traditions and dining in the early 19th century. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, Forest. 434.525.1806, poplarforest.org

dec 15CHARLIE PERKINSON TRIO | Live jazz with a holiday theme at The Blackwater Cafe, Moneta. 6-9 p.m. 540.721.4333, theblackwatercafe.com

D E C E M B E R

Westlake tRee liGhtinG

ceRemonY

DEC. 1 | Westlake Towne Center’s free family-oriented event features live music, light refreshments, tree lighting, photo opportunity with Santa and special holiday movie showing at Westlake Cinema. Festivities will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with the tree lighting at approximately 7:15 p.m. 540.721.5288, westlaketownecenter.com

To submit a calendar item, send an e-mail with all the details to [email protected].


ADVERTISER NAME PAGE # MAP ID

PERIWINKLE LN

ELLIS

RD

WYSO

NG

MILL R

D

HARDY RD

HARDY RD

HARDY RD

ETON

RD

ETON RD

BOO

KER

T. W

ASH

ING

TON

HW

Y

BOO

KER

T. W

ASHI

NGTO

N HW

Y

WHITE HOUSE RD

WHITE HOUSE RD

WHITE HO

USE RD

BOOKER T.

WASHINGTON HWY

IVY LN

ROCK

CLI

FF R

D

BOLD

BRA

NCH

ROAD

P E N H O O K

2 4 1 3 7

ED

WA

RD

SV

ILLE

RD

DEEPW

OODS RD

TRUM

AN H

ILL

RD

HARMONY SCHOOL RD

EDWARDSVILLE RD

FIRSTWATCH DR

LAKEWATCH D

R

HA

LES

PT

DR

LAK

EW

ATC

H C

IR

ALTICE RD

MO

NE

TA R

D

OLD

MO

NE

TA R

D

RUCKER RD

H A R D Y

2 4 1 0 1

G L A D E H I L L

2 4 0 9 2

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

G O O D V I E W

2 4 0 9 5

H U D D L E S T O N

2 4 1 0 4

W I R T Z

2 4 1 8 4

S A N D Y L E V E L

2 4 1 6 1

U N I O N H A L L2 4 1 7 6R O C K Y M O U N T

2 4 1 5 1

ROANOKE RIVER

GRIMES CREEK

PARK COVE

HAT

CHER

CRE

EK

TOM BRANCH

WIT

CH

ER C

REE

K

WALTON CREEK

GILLS CREEK

LYNVILLE C

REE

K

BEA

VER

DAM

CR

EEK

J U

MP I

NG RUN

BIG

IND

IAN

CRE

EK

LITTLE IND

IAN

CR

EEKSTO

NEY

CR

EEK

MER

RIM

AN

RU

N

BECK

YS C

REEKBETTYS CREEK

POPLAR CAMP CREEK

STANIFORD CREEK

SILV

ER C

REE

K

BU

LL R

UN

LITTLE BULL RUN

CO

OL B

RA

NC

H

666

634

681

634

634

635

635

635

684

116

116

739

919

919

641

697

699

220

676

676

636

675

653

636

951

950

678

757

755

757

852

757

636

653

653

655655

655

654

654

655

654

823

853

608

626

626

626

805

738

734

734

734

740

626

656

616

616

616

616

668

834

834

670

670

670

668

668

668

655

674

703

655

674

840

834

834

834

938

938

945

40

40

4040

40

663

663

920

966

660

645

626

626

751626

777

908

751

662

662

819

944

944

833

654

942

942 601

940

616

949

610

122

122

122

122

122

122

661

900

900

672

636

678

665

BLACKWATER RIVER CHANNEL

CRA

DD

OCK CREEK

926

673

647

659

937

660

946

831

938

905

743

608

836

835

608

608

608

608

608

122

670

616

670

734

684

122

616

616

122

116 122

BellavistaIsland

Dam Island

Beach Island

BridesIsland

BridesIsland

SanctuaryBay

Middle Island

JohnstonIsland

Bar Island

Rock Island

LuckyIsland

ChimneyIsland

Christmas TreeIsland

RabbitIsland

CartersIsland(Pvt)

DamGoatIsland

Shoprite Village

Hales FordBridge

ADVERTISER INDEXADVERTISER NAME PAGE # MAP IDAffordable Home Outlet 78 A9

Atlantic Bay Mortgage 30 E7

Antique Mall at Mayberry 51 A9

Automatic Boat Covers 47 -

Bayside Marina 68 E8

Blinds and Beyond 59 E7

BMS Consulting 47 E7

Bob Riddick Roofing 71 E8

Capps Home Building Center 6 E7

Carilion Clinic 10 E7

Center Stage Catering 66 -

Clear View Railing 41 -

Debbie Shelton, Prudential 9 E7

Dietz Lilly, Builders Inc. 52 -

Eastlake Community Church 33 B9

eFlame Lighting 56 -

Emerson Creek Pottery 55 -

Eric Smith, DDS 51 A9

Faber CPA Firm, LLC 37 E7

Franklin Community Bank 52 E7

Grand Home Furnishings Outlet 33 E7

Haywood's Jewelers 52 E7

Homestead Creamery 73 G4

Interiors by Kris 55 E7

Jane Sullivan Horne, Prudential 5 E7

Johnathan's Restaurant 66 D7

Kebo Construction 37 -

Kevin A. Mele, P.C., CPA 19 C8

King's Grant 20 -

Kitchens at the Lake 21 -

Kroger 2 E7

Lake Inn 71 E7

Lakescapes Nursery 29 J9,E7

Lyons Team Realtors 33 A9

M.G. Construction 44 -

M.H. Eades, Inc. 42 -

Michael Dillon Custom Docks 68 -

Martinsville Dupont Credit Union 47 K4

Nationwide Insurance 41 -

Noonkester Construction 30 -

Oasis Cabinets 59 G4

Patio Enclosures 60 -

PD&M, Inc. General Contractors 17 C8

Pheasant Ridge 68 -

Potter Construction 44 -

Robert R. Bauer Building Contractors 41 -

RSI Rentals 37 E7

Runk & Pratt SML Retirement Village 48 E7

Seven Oaks Landscaping 44 J5

Smith Barney 12 -

Smith Mountain Building Supply 3 E7

Smith Mountain LakeRegional Chamber of Commerce

22-23 C8

SML Gallery 45 E7

SML Home Check 78 -

SML Pressure Cleaning 71 -

Snazzy Screen Solutions 56 -

The Blackwater Cafe 65 F9

The Landing Restaurant 62 F10

The Little Gallery 55 C8

The Westlake Country Club 3 C8

Tantastic 51 A9

TopNotch Lawncare 30 E7

Turner's Building, Inc. 60 J9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

© 2010 Laker Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this map without the written consent of Laker Media is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of this map.

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

J

I

K

Vicki Millehan, Prudential 9 E7

Virginia Dare Marina 60 E10

VitaZen 59 E7

Webster Marine Center 24 C8

Westlake Cinema 3 E7

Westlake Dental Office 4 E7

Westlake Heating & Air Conditioning 51 E7

Westlake Salon & Spa 3 E7

Westlake Turf & Irrigation 56 E8Westlake Wash 35 -Worry Free Solutions 76 -

Westlake Towne Center


PERIWINKLE LN

ELLIS

RD

WYSO

NG

MILL R

D

HARDY RD

HARDY RD

HARDY RD

ETON

RD

ETON RD

BOO

KER

T. W

ASH

ING

TON

HW

Y

BOO

KER

T. W

ASHI

NGTO

N HW

Y

WHITE HOUSE RD

WHITE HOUSE RD

WHITE HO

USE RD

BOOKER T.

WASHINGTON HWY

IVY LN

ROCK

CLI

FF R

D

BOLD

BRA

NCH

ROAD

P E N H O O K

2 4 1 3 7

ED

WA

RD

SV

ILLE

RD

DEEPW

OODS RD

TRUM

AN H

ILL

RD

HARMONY SCHOOL RD

EDWARDSVILLE RD

FIRSTWATCH DR

LAKEWATCH D

R

HA

LES

PT

DR

LAK

EW

ATC

H C

IR

ALTICE RD

MO

NE

TA R

D

OLD

MO

NE

TA R

D

RUCKER RD

H A R D Y

2 4 1 0 1

G L A D E H I L L

2 4 0 9 2

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

M O N E T A

2 4 1 2 1

G O O D V I E W

2 4 0 9 5

H U D D L E S T O N

2 4 1 0 4

W I R T Z

2 4 1 8 4

S A N D Y L E V E L

2 4 1 6 1

U N I O N H A L L2 4 1 7 6R O C K Y M O U N T

2 4 1 5 1

ROANOKE RIVER

GRIMES CREEK

PARK COVEH

ATCH

ER C

REEK

TOM BRANCH

WIT

CH

ER C

REE

K

WALTON CREEK

GILLS CREEK

LYNVILLE C

REE

K

BEA

VER

DAM

CR

EEK

J U

MP I

NG RUN

BIG

IND

IAN

CRE

EK

LITTLE IND

IAN

CR

EEKSTO

NEY

CR

EEK

MER

RIM

AN

RU

N

BECK

YS C

REEKBETTYS CREEK

POPLAR CAMP CREEK

STANIFORD CREEK

SILV

ER C

REE

K

BU

LL R

UN

LITTLE BULL RUN

CO

OL B

RA

NC

H

666

634

681

634

634

635

635

635

684

116

116

739

919

919

641

697

699

220

676

676

636

675

653

636

951

950

678

757

755

757

852

757

636

653

653

655655

655

654

654

655

654

823

853

608

626

626

626

805

738

734

734

734

740

626

656

616

616

616

616

668

834

834

670

670

670

668

668

668

655

674

703

655

674

840

834

834

834

938

938

945

40

40

4040

40

663

663

920

966

660

645

626

626

751626

777

908

751

662

662

819

944

944

833

654

942

942 601

940

616

949

610

122

122

122

122

122

122

661

900

900

672

636

678

665

BLACKWATER RIVER CHANNEL

CRA

DD

OCK CREEK

926

673

647

659

937

660

946

831

938

905

743

608

836

835

608

608

608

608

608

122

670

616

670

734

684

122

616

616

122

116 122

BellavistaIsland

Dam Island

Beach Island

BridesIsland

BridesIsland

SanctuaryBay

Middle Island

JohnstonIsland

Bar Island

Rock Island

LuckyIsland

ChimneyIsland

Christmas TreeIsland

RabbitIsland

CartersIsland(Pvt)

DamGoatIsland

Shoprite Village

Hales FordBridge

8 9 10 11 12 13

AKERSMITH MOUNTAIN

magazine

For a more a more detailed map and retail guide, please pick upa copy of the FREE Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Info Map.

The map is available at various locations around Smith Mountain Lake,including the SML Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza and

Laker Media, 272 Westlake Road, Suite 1, Hardy.

REAL ESTATE INDEXADVERTISER NAME PAGE # MAP IDBlankenship, Rhonda Long & Foster REALTORS

RE 13 C8

Horne, Jane Sullivan Prudential Waterfront Properties

RE 3 H11

Johnson, Phyllis RE/MAX Lakefront Realty, Inc.

RE 9 C8

Jordan, Cameron and Angie Wainwright & Company REALTORS

RE 12 C8

Lake & Land Realty RE 10 C8McDaniel, Glenda Long & Foster REALTORS

6-8 C8

McDonald, Mary Lou Realty World

RE 16-18 F11

McDowell-Kent, Sylvia Lake & Land Realty

RE 13 C8

McGreevey, John and Pat Long & Foster REALTORS

RE 14 D8

Millehan, Vicki Prudential Waterfront Properties

RE 4 H11

Montgomery, Dana Prudential Waterfront Properties

RE 14 E7

Prudential Waterfront Properties 2 E7Shelton, Debbie Prudential Waterfront Properties

RE 5 E7

The Van Team Long & Foster REALTORS

RE 13 C8

Watermark Realty RE 11 E7

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

J

I

K

Documents

Smith Mountain Laker Magazine NovDec2011