The Bridgewater CollegeFaculty/Staff Community Guide

By way of introduction, this community guide is designed with new faculty/staff in mind, but we hope that longer-term residents of our community will discover new places to investigate. We’ve listed those places you learn about by stumbling across them or by word of mouth. By sharing local wisdom we have oriented this guide to places that don’t normally advertise. We know that Costco and Walmart can finance their own advertising and that local chains will offer you the comfort of predictability. Consequently, unless someone has offered “local wisdom” about a “local chain” we’ve let the big box stores and chains speak for themselves. We’ve provided links when available, but we also recommend checking out: http://rockingham.va.golookon.com/ as well as issues of Rocktown for restaurant reviews and other local events.

Table of ContentsRestaurants......................................................................................................................................................................3

American Fare............................................................................................................................................................3Asian...........................................................................................................................................................................5BBQ............................................................................................................................................................................7Cuban:.........................................................................................................................................................................7Central and South American Cuisine:........................................................................................................................8Mexican: There’s a big difference between Mexican-American food and authentic Mexican cuisine, but members of the community love both........................................................................................................................................8Diners..........................................................................................................................................................................9Ethiopian...................................................................................................................................................................10Fine Dining...............................................................................................................................................................11German.....................................................................................................................................................................12Indian........................................................................................................................................................................13Italian........................................................................................................................................................................14Vegetarian.................................................................................................................................................................15Coffee & Tea Shops..................................................................................................................................................16Ice Cream..................................................................................................................................................................17

Misc. Items of Interest..................................................................................................................................................18Bookstores................................................................................................................................................................18Best Mechanics.........................................................................................................................................................18Thrift Stores..............................................................................................................................................................19Nursery’s...................................................................................................................................................................19

Movie Theaters.............................................................................................................................................................21Backpacking and Hiking Supplies................................................................................................................................22Supermarkets................................................................................................................................................................23

Upscale Chain Groceries..........................................................................................................................................23Specialty and/or Mom and Pop Groceries................................................................................................................24Bakeries....................................................................................................................................................................25Wine Shops and Breweries.......................................................................................................................................26

Farm Stands, Markets and Food Coops........................................................................................................................28Indoor Year-round Farmer’s Markets.......................................................................................................................28Seasonal Farmer’s Markets and Farms.....................................................................................................................28FOOD COOPS & Community Supported Agriculture Farms.................................................................................29

Fun Around Town and Farther Afield:.........................................................................................................................30Bridgewater’s Local Environs:.................................................................................................................................30Harrisonburg’s Local Environs:...............................................................................................................................31Staunton’s Local Environs:.......................................................................................................................................32Charlottesville’s Local Environs:.............................................................................................................................33Further A Field:........................................................................................................................................................34

RestaurantsAmerican Fare

Thomas House: If it’s a taste of the Valley you seek then try this restaurant in downtown Dayton (on Main Street) for “a cheap, easy, filling meal quick.” “When we are too tired to fix food, this serves... Not for the one who prefers 'fine dining.' It is not that. It is what it is. Mostly locals.” You’ll find a white board with the daily specials listed, including all the sides (vegetable plates with three sides is always an option). A basket of bread and corn muffins to start and a host of pies to cap off your meal.

Mill Street Grill: There’s much that sets this restaurant apart from other American-fare restaurants, from the atmosphere in the old mill building to the flower pots with three types of home-made breads served with your appetizers. And then there’s the lovely small bowl of peppermint ice-cream that comes as a compliment when your meal is over. The menu is broad enough to serve a number of palates and tastes and if you dine on Wednesday’s you’ll get the added treat of live jazz. 1 Mill Street, Staunton, VA540-886-0656.http://www.millstreetgrill.com/

Mockingbird Restaurant: The Mockingbird restaurant is described as “artisan casual fare” in which the owners strive to bring in locally grown and organic foods which are presented in a simple yet delectable way. The Farmer’s Brunch is well worth a weekend visit. However, the Mockingbird also contains the Roots Music Hall in which they feature great “roots music”, dinner theatre, and a thought-provoking monthly Thursday movie series.123 W. Beverley Street, Staunton, Virginia540-213-8777http://www.mockingbird123.com

Clementine: We don’t want to describe Clementine as the Harrisonburg version of the Mockingbird, but there’s bound to be some comparisons made. The restaurant’s website notes their mission “to provide quality food, music, drinks, art, films and community events in an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and accessible to everyone. We invite you to join us in reclaiming our cultural integrity....” Some folks have had better luck with the lunch menu, as opposed to the dinner menu. On nights when there is music, go early to ensure you get a table.Open every day from 11am-midnight153 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia540-801-8881http://clementinecafe.com/

Blue Stone Inn: in Lacey Spring “where you can always eat under a buck.”

This is a casual country lodge that specializes in rainbow trout and rib-eye steaks, although there’s more on the menu than just these two items. Entrees average about $18-$24, (when they say that you “can eat under a buck” they are talking about the mounted head over the fireplace, and left wall, and right wall and…) but the atmosphere and excellent food found at this family owned restaurant make the eleven mile excursion up North Rt. 11 well worth it! 9107 N Valley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA540-434-0535Open Tues-SatSteaks and seafoodhttp://www.bluestoneinnrestaurant.comOpen Tues-Sat 4:30-8:30pm for dinner only.

Cranberry's Grocery and Eatery: A morning and mid-day café that offers a juice bar, smoothies, Lester's gourmet coffee, wraps, salads & desserts. Both breakfast and lunch offer vegan and vegetarian entrees, and soup are served in the wintertime. The shop also includes gift items such as, organic and natural foodstuffs & an apothecary. 7 South New Street, Staunton, VA540-885-4755.Open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Depot Grill: Located in the old freight depot of the Staunton Train Station.  Fresh seafood & steaks.  Daily specials.  Kids' and lite bites menus.  42 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton,Va540-885-7332Open daily 11:00 am-10:30 pm. http://depotgrille.com/

Panera Bread: Yes, a chain, but good food, good college atmosphere, and a good chance of bumping into at least one of your students (current or former) at any given time! Located in Harrisonburg Crossing, the loaves of bread for take out are wonderful too! Open daily at:295 Burgess Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-433-6333

Dave's Taverna: Located on Rt 11 north in Harrisonburg just before you arrive at Court Square – Dave’s serves everything from burgers to pizza, and up until recently was the only place to get Greek food. One colleague cites Dave’s as having “the best French fries in town!” The food is great and this is an excellent place for a weekday lunch where you’ll be rubbing elbows with other business folk. As one colleague points out however, once school is in session, “this is a JMU hangout so Fri/Sat night can be a meat-market zoo!”  It does have roof-top seating that is quite nice….and they often have live entertainment which can be fun. 121 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801

540-561-1487http://www.davestaverna.com/

Pennybackers Restaurant: on Water Street, Downtown – newly opened to great reviews, this is a great stop for sandwiches and casual dining. They even offer “picnic” take-out if you are heading over to Friday’s on the Square. 14 East Water Street, Harrisonburg, VA540-432-3360http://www.pennybackers.com/Home_Page.html

Traditions: Across from EMU – this is family style eating with a “home-cooked” buffet style service. Call ahead to check the hours before you make the drive. 625 Mount Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA540-438-0301

Union Station: Downtown in the recently renovated Wetsel Seed Building, this restaurant is tasty American-fare. Union Station is at the corner of West Market and Liberty Streets, and they bill themselves as having “new versions of old family favorites,” with a historic feel and creative menu.128 West Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA540-437-0042http://www.unionstationdowntown.com/site/

The Wood Grill Buffet: on University Ave. near Costco – Okay, maybe this is a chain, but it was recommended by a number of folks who state “that it is just the best buffet dinner around for $9.95 and lunch is the same food but a buck or so cheaper.” Recommendations: a good place to take the kids and enjoy an excellent salad.  Go early or sometimes you won't be able to get in!1711 Reservoir Street, Harrisonburg, VA540-432-9303

Asian

Taste of Thai: By far the most highly recommended restaurant among our community sample. You’ll want to eat here just to find out what the buzz is about! “Taste of Thai on Rt 42 north in Harrisonburg is the best Thai around.” “The spring rolls which are not deep fried are amazing, the pad thai a delight, and for the adventurous, try the country style curry with string beans and your favorite meat - hot hot hot!  They will tone down any dish if you ask.” Word has it that this is the official restaurant of the History/PSci

Department. As reported by one colleague… “Careful, the flavor and spice is addicting!”919 S High St, Harrisonburg, VA540-801-8878Open Mon-Thurs 11am-9:30pmFri-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-9pmhttp://www.taste-of-thai.com/

Saigon Café: Vietnamese cuisine on Rt 33 just west of I-81 in Harrisonburg - another lunch buffet (served Mon-Fri, but not on weekends) that is not to be missed if you want to try the dishes! The owners of this restaurant are magnificently warm and dedicated to the community. They have an annual open house in which all proceeds from the day go to a specific local charity.787 East Market St, Harrisonburg, VA540-434-5750

Pho Ha Vietnamese Noodle Restaurant1015 Port Republic Road, Harrisonburg, VA540-438-0999Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pmSat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-8pm

Café Jako: Searching for Sushi? While there are others places in town that serve sushi, this Japanese/Korean restaurant offers a an extensive sushi menu, “happy lunch boxes” served M-F from 11:30am-2:30pm, and comfortable atmosphere.182 Neff Avenue #W 10, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-434-7278

Beyond: Another great location for Sushi, but offering a whole different atmosphere. This is an evening out with friends, a place to get a drink and enjoy appetizers. In sum, this is Asian-Fusion with a flair for tapas. 50 West Water Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-432-0105http://www.restaurantbeyond.com/ Open Monday-Thursday, 11-2:30 and 4:30-10:30pmFri 11-2:30 and 4:30-12Saturday, dinner only 4:30-12; Sun closed

BBQ The Bar-be-Que Ranch: Let’s start by acknowledging that people can get pretty serious about their barbeque. But as one colleague put’s it “The Bar-be-Que Ranch” has

“the best pork barbeque sandwich in the Valley.” Other advantages to getting your barbeque here? You can dine-in and they are one of the few locations where you can top your barbeque off with a malt! Rt. 11 north of Harrisonburg, 3311 N. Valley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802540-434-3296

The Smokin Pig: Here you can choose between Carolina vinegar barbeque and southwest style. They’ve also expanded their menu to include deli sandwiches, which may not be what you are looking for when you are out searching for great bbq, but if you eat meat and your spouse is a lacto-ovo-pesco vegetarian (such inter-dietary couples are becoming more common) than your spouse can get a tuna sandwich and sides while you enjoy the bbq. That way, you keep the whole family happy. Oh, and remember the part about getting malt’s at the Bar-be-Que Ranch? The Smokin’ Pig has the added benefit of being next to Kline’s Diary Bar. 56 E. Wolf St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-433-3917

Hank’s Smokehouse: There are two locations at which you can enjoy Hank’s barbeque, the larger restaurant in McGaheysville, or the smaller location at the Dayton Farmer’s Market. The thing to know about Hank’s is that they serve more than hand-pulled pork bbq. At the Farmer’s market they have soups, roll-up sandwiches, grilled vegetables, and traditional sides. They are also excellent caterers for any large event. Rumor has it that Betsy Hayes once served an entire Thanksgiving meal to her extended family via Hank’s fine catering. (Okay, it’s not just a rumor, it’s a true story, but nobody wants a vegetarian cooking their turkey dinner—and according to the meat eaters, the turkey was great!)The Dayton Farmer’s Market on Rt. 42 and/or49 Bloomer Spring Rd., McGaheysville, VA 22840540-289-7667

Wildwood BBQ: This is a new BBQ joint just down the road from the college. They serve traditional barbeque as well as chicken, burgers, and a variety of sides.610 N Main St Ste C, Bridgewater, VA 22812 (540) 828-2277

Cuban:Artiles Restaurant and Buffet: Way up Rt. 42 and past the turn to EMU, this site has housed a number of restaurants! Its current incantation is a Cuban themed buffet! The buffet offers different items 'prepared fresh daily', including pork ribs, tilapia, chicken, garbanzo beans with pork, black beans and rice, steak and onions, pork and yellow rice, fried plantains, fresh salads and fruits. All day adult buffet is $8.50. Children 4-8 $1.98; children 8-12 $2.99. Students with ID lunch $7.99 and dinner $8.10.Open every day 11am to 9:30pm

1251 Virginia Avenue or Highway 42 North, Harrisonburg, VA 22802(540) 432-3316

Central and South American Cuisine:Mexican: There’s a big difference between Mexican-American food and authentic Mexican cuisine, but members of the community love both.

Authentic Mexican:El Paisa: Close to BC in downtown Dayton, El Paisa is listed by several community members as “the best” Mexican food in the Valley. Homemade chili sauces with a real zing, gorditas, tamarindo, and daily specials. Primarily a lunch spot for Cargill employees, you are guaranteed large portions at a reasonable price. Entrees range from $5-7.270 Dingledine Lane, Dayton, VA 22821540-879-9798

Guzman’s Mexican Restaurant: Also rated highly, Guzman’s Mexican Restaurant is a family oriented restaurant that serves lunch and dinner. 928 West Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801Phone: 540.432.1094

Mexican-AmericanEl Charro: This family restaurant has two locations in town and is popular with family and college students alike. 1580 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-433-3189OR:1570 East Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-564-0386

Baja Bean: Probably best described as Cal-Mex this Staunton restaurant is cheerfully decorated in bright colors, making it a kid friendly restaurant. Baja Bean also works directly with the Visualite Theater and offers a dinner and a movie special on Monday nights. (see information on the Visualite below). 9 West Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401540-885-9988http://www.bajabean.comSub Station & Ricos Tacos: They do both subs and tacos and they do them quite well. The restaurant looks a little more like an American diner than a Mexican taqueria.  But don’t let that fool you, the mexican food here is authentic Mexican cuisine.  Great place to have a quick lunch during workdays. 3257 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801(540) 432-3317

El Salvador:

Pupuseria Salvadorena: This small café is tucked away in Dukes Plaza on South Rt. 11, and if you weren’t looking for it you might miss out. This is authentic El Salvadorean cuisine. Pupusas are addicting corn tortillas stuffed with beans, cheese, beef, pork and other combinations. There’s more on the menu, of course, including plantains and cassava. Succinctly put by one colleague: “YUM!” 2241 South Main St, Harrisonburg, VA540-432-6262Open Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri 10am-9:30pm Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 12pm-10pm Closed Tuesday

Peruvian:

A&T's Chicken Peruvian style Char-Broiled Rotisserie chicken and salads. You can make a lunch out of the fried plantains alone! ($1 for a basket!) Outstanding home-made Peruvian sauces are what make the meal at this restaurant. 182 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA540-438-5813Open 11am-2pm; 4pm-8pmClosed Wednesday

Inca's SecretAnother treat is the rotisserie chicken from Inca’s. Make sure to order the yucca too.182 Neff Avenue #W3, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-432-1313Open Sunday-Saturday 9:00am-9:00pm

DinersSouthside Diner: You wouldn't think it but the Southside Diner (Truck stop) on South Rt. 11 has amazing food and it has recently been remodeled so it has a fun retro diner feel. One colleague remarks: “It's not scary or smoky like you'd expect for a truck stop. Great pork BBQ and fries!” There are always daily specials and if you love to go out for breakfast, you can’t beat the prices! 3555 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-437-0061

The Galley This isn’t a “diner” in the retro sense of the word, but it’s certainly a diner in every other way. This is where the locals eat and where the waitresses will quickly learn your “regular” order. Close enough to BC that you can get lunch in under an hour. Trust us: the Dean’s gotten her lunch here after an 11:50am class and still made it back

to campus in time for her golf class at 1:00pm with Mike Clark. Though not listed in the “Greek section” of our guide, the Galley also serves gyros and Mediterranean salads. 2430 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA540-434-3518Open Mon-Sat 11am-2pm; 4pm-10pm; Closed SundayHamburgers, subs, and pizza

Thunderbird Cafe: This is definitely a diner in the “retro-style”. You’ve got breakfast 24/7. Pon Hoss, Sausage Gravy, and Turner Country Ham, and home-style cooking for lunch and dinner. Rt 33 and Island Ford Road, McGaheysville, VA 22840540-289-5094http://rockingham.va.golookon.com/listings/thunderbird_diner

Wright’s Dairy-Rite: Authentic 1950’s drive-in diner, and a Staunton “institution.” This is worth telling your students about so that they too can enjoy the dine-in or curb-service while placing their order via speaker from their car or table.  Special updated perks included a pet walking area and free wireless internet access.  You’ll find burgers, subs, ice-cream and dinner specials. 346 Greenville Avenue, Staunton, VA540-886-0435Open Monday-Thursday 10:00am-10:00 pm, Friday 7 Saturday 10:00 am-11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am-10:00 pm. http://www.dairy-rite.com/

Ethiopian

Blue Nile Ethiopian: This fantastic Ethiopian restaurant is downtown just north of Court Square. Gorgeous inside with amazing food! You’ll find injera and all the delights of eating with your hands - order the mushroom with tomato off the vegetarian side, an awesome dish! 181 N. Main Street (Rt. 11 North); Harrisonburg VA(540) 432-NILEhttp://www.bluenileva.com/

Fine Dining

The Joshua Wilton House: You’ll get mixed reviews from folks on this one. On the one hand, it’s been a standing choice for celebrating anniversarys, birthdays, or special events that deserve elegant dining. They have an excellent wine list and the atmosphere in this Victorian bed and breakfast provides a graceful setting. The food is good, but the

debate sets in when you ask people whether the food is worth the higher prices. If what you are seeking is a refined setting or romantic mood, than this is the place to go. If you are a foodie in search of a gourmet meal with the price to match, you might be disappointed. Sean, a co-owner, also runs a wine of the month club – 3 bottles with descriptions for $35. Many months, the individual bottles are worth more than the $35 charge. If you like to taste wines, this is a fantastic deal!412 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-434-4464 or 888-294-5866Open Tues-Sat at 5pmClosed Sun & Monhttp://www.joshuawilton.com/

The Local Chop and Grill House: Locally grown meat and produce are standard fare at this higher end restaurant. A lovely atmosphere while still having a casual feel, the prices move toward the $15-20 entrée range, but the food is excellent. If you want a slightly lighter food bill, they serve a modified menu in the bar—but the chef is still the same, so the food is still excellent!56 West Gay Street, Harrisonburg, VA540-801-0505Open Tues-Saturday for dinner, closed Sunday and Mondayhttp://www.localchops.com

The Staunton Grocery: The key to this dining experience is the “farm to table philosophy.” Ian Boden, Staunton Grocery’s chef, is committed to sustainable agriculture, minimizing our ecological footprint, and working within the local economy. The meal comes to you in “courses” and the menu changes with the season and the availability of local ingredients, but there is always something new and delectable on the menu. Sunday night’s include a “three course-price fixed” menu that features the “best of the week” and costs $30 per meal with a $10 additional wine option. To extend your evening out, consider pairing your dinner at the Staunton Grocery with an afternoon movie at the Visualite. If you see a movie at the Visualite on Sunday afternoon, you can add a “fourth course” to your “fixed-priced” dinner at the Staunton Grocery for free. Check the Visualite (info below) for more details. 105 West Beverley Street, Staunton, VA540-886-6880Open Tues-Sun for dinner, closed Mondayhttp://www.stauntongrocery.com/

The Dining Room: Described as having an “eclectic atmosphere” and live jazz on Tuesdays, this is definitely fine dining for you and your favorite foodies.  The restaurant offers local farmed beef and produce, Maryland seafood, Canadian venison and much more.  (note: The restaurant has recently changed ownership so the experience may also change.)29 North Augusta Street, Staunton, VA

540-213-0606Open Tues-Sat, lunch and dinner served. http://www.thediningroomstaunton.com/

Zynodoa: “We offer creatively prepared southern cuisine in a comfortable, metropolitan atmosphere. Our menu changes frequently to reflect the imagination of our chef and provide excitement for our diners. Zynodoa is proud to support the region's farms and producers; we pledge to use the freshest ingredients seasonally available. The bar offers a distinctive assortment of beer, wine and spirits as well as signature cocktails.” 115 E. Beverley Street Staunton, VA 540-885-7775Open Wednesday-Saturday for dinner 5 -11:30 PM, Sunday 12 noon-8 PM http://www.zynodoa.com/

German Edelweiss Restaurant Heading out toward Greenville is the Edelweiss Restaurant if you are in the mood for traditional German food. The experience includes imported German beers and an on-site German pastry shop.19 Edelweiss Lane, Staunton, VA 24401540.337.1203http://www.edelweissrestaurantva.com

Middle Eastern/Greek (see also Dave’s Taverna listed with “American Fare” above)

Xenia Kebab Grille: Xenia - in the Harrisonburg Crossing shopping center, on the same side as Barnes and Noble but all the way at the other end - offers a Kebab palace in H-burg!  The sides and spicy chicken are wonderful. “They outrank the Little Grill when it comes to fixing falafel,” and if it’s lamb your searching for they’ve got it! Plus long term BC community members will feel right at home in the old BC Eagles Nest booths !219 Burgess Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801Phone: 540.437.4832http://rockingham.va.golookon.com/listings/xenia_kebab_grille Monday CLOSEDTuesday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pmFriday-Saturday 11:00am-10:00pmSunday Noon-9:00pm

Indian

Taste of India: “Fantastic lunch buffets” allow you “try the curries if you are not familiar with Indian food.”  Don’t order the bread basket unless you are in a big group or

HUNGRY! The pistachio chicken is so different and amazing! With some advanced notice, they’ll accommodate large groups. 498 University Boulevard Ste D; Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-801-8878Open Tues-Sunday, lunch buffethttp://tasteofindiahbg.com/(They now have a Staunton location as well)—102 S New St · Staunton(540) 213-8882

Indian-American Cafe : This Indian restaurant on Rt 11 north just past Court Square is often cited as “authentic” Indian cuisine. “Be careful of the heat scale - they make it hot!”  “The best spinach saag dish ever!” Prices are reasonable with entrees ranging from $8-$14. 91 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802540-433-1177Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11:00am-2:30Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5:00pm-9:00pmSunday CLOSED

Tandori's Kitchen: This restaurant on South Main Street in Harrisonburg has seen more makeovers than most in the last five years. The latest incarnation specializes in traditional

Indian and Pakistani dishes, while also offering classic American favorites. Where else can you get a plate of wings, some garlic naan, Chicken Korma, and a slice of cheese cake under the same roof?? The Indian and Pakistani food has a “home made” flavor to it and the service is excellent. Find them on Facebook with a search for Tandori's Kitchen.

1588 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-442-7166Open Tues-Sunday, lunch buffetMonday CLOSED

Italian

L’Italia: This restaurant has several locations (in Staunton and Harrisonburg) and even offers a smaller pizza/pasta café on Port Republic Road. The multiple locations make clear how popular this Italian restaurant is with Valley residents. Entrees range from $12-24, and a children’s menu is available for those under 12. Reservations are suggested. L’Italia Pizza and Pasta:1039 Port Republic Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801Port Crossing Shipping Center540-433-1113

L’Italia Restaurant815 East Market StreetHarrisonburg, VA 22801540-433-0961http://litalia-restaurant.com

Emilio’s Italian Restaurant: Might be part of the L’Italia family but the name has recently changed but not the quality of the food! Visit the Pompei Lounge on the 3rd floor for lighter fare and cocktails! Emilio’s Restaurant and Pompei Lounge23 East Beverley StreetStaunton, VA 24401540-885-0102http://www.litalia.info/site/

Casa di Scotto’s: This has been open for several years now down by the White Star Mill. More casual atmosphere than Emilo’s with great food and some Argentinian influences, look for the empanadas as appetizer! 2040 W Beverley StreetStaunton, VA 24401(540) 886-8400

Francesco’s Casual Italian: Right at the corner of College Street and Main in Bridgewater, it has a wide variety of Italian food and very “yummy” bread served with dinner. During lunch they also offer a pizza and pasta buffet. It appears to be the place to go for faculty/staff lunch. 101 N Main Street Bridgewater, VA 22812 540-828-3255

Shenandoah Pizza: Voted “Best Pizza” by eightyone newspaper, Shenandoah serves gourmet pizza in a more upscale environment than your average pizza parlor. Live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.19 E Beverley St., Staunton, VA540-213-0008Tues-Sat 11am-10pmhttp://www.shenandoahpizza.com/

Bravo: With a casual setting and tables outside (although you’re essentially sitting in the parking lot) Bravo’s offers “pretty good Italian.” On Rt. 33/Market Street in the shopping plaza with Petsmart, the setting is a little less noisy than other spots, enabling good conversation at your table.

Franco’s: Easy enough to find at the Harrisonburg Crossing Shopping Center, Franco’s offers New York Style Italian food. The best part is the pizza by the slice, refills on soda, and all for about $5, although they do have a more complete menu available.

225 Burgess Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-564-0105

Vegetarian

The Little Grill Collective: “The Little Grill is of course a VERY casual, earthy, crunchy, socially conscious, and the most vegetarian and vegan kind of institution in town!” “Really good food, great breakfast fare.” Their various ethnic food nights are also good. “But get there early on all-you-can-eat Mexican nights (Tuesdays) and breakfast night (Thursday).” “Food is excellent, servings are generous, and if you are a conscientious meat eater, the meats are "happy" meats--free range, natural, etc.  You can also buy their hummus and eggs to take home.”Tuesday-Saturday 7:00am-9:00pmSunday 9:00am-2:00pmMonday CLOSED (for “food for all” soup kitchen at noon)621 North Main Street, Harrisonburg540-434-3594http://www.littlegrillcollective.com/

A Bowl of Good: We’ll put this under vegetarian, but really it is so much more than that. Yes, there are veggie entrée’s, but these are globally inspired meals that also include both breakfast bowls and lunch bowls with American standards like the Mac and Cheese (Mac and Jack of the Valley) bowls, and, oh yeah, their famous soups! Let’s just say it’s the peace and justice” mission that lands it in the vegetarian column. These are wholesome and hearty bowls of good. The only sadness is that the distance to north Harrisonburg makes the Bowl of Good hard to fit into a quick lunch hour. But none-the-less, worth the drive when you’ve got time for casual conversation with good friends over a warm yummy bowl of –yup!—good!Monday – Friday 7am-6pm- and Saturday 3:00am-3:00pm831 Mount Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg 540-437-9020http://abowlofgood.com/

Coffee & Tea Shops The Artful Dodger: Owned and operated by a Bridgewater alum, the Artful Dodger is part coffee shop/art gallery and part night club/cocktail lounge. Much depends on the time of day you visit, but the Dodger offers an alternative to the typical coffee shop scene. They have a full menu, with entrees from $4-$8, couches to lounge on, read a

book and or play board games. “The down-side is the amount of smoking in the Dodger.” But rumor has it that there may be rooftop seating soon. 47 West Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-432-1179Open daily 8am-2amhttp://www.artfuldodger.org

Earth & Tea Café: Recently opened, this fun little spot offers a great place to relax. The café offers tables, couches, and even a fun little corner nook to enjoy your cup of tea. Tea is sold by the pot (small or large) and the menu offers everything from white, green, oolong, herbal, Darjeeling, to mate. You can get a wrap or Panini at lunch for $6 and if you add a small pot of tea, you’ll have a whole meal for $10.120 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-432-8280Monday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pmFriday-Saturday 11:00am-11:00pm

Blue Mountain Coffee: In Staunton, head here for “yummy bagels and specialty coffees.”12 B Byers Street, Staunton, VA 24401

The Bistro “Is wonderful!” What can we say? Beyond breakfasts and lunch, you can get scrumptious desserts, and they offer free-wireless too! 610 North Main Street, Bridgewater, VA 22812540-828-2266

Ice Cream

Harvey’s right on Main Street in Bridgewater, with home-made ice cream, flavors that change weekly, a mystery flavor that’s fun to try and identify, and Italian ices and gelato!121 N Main St Bridgewater(540) 828-3103

The Split Banana (Staunton) right on Beverly in downtown Staunton and open most nights to 10 pm, this is some of the best ice cream or gelato you have ever tasted. The waffle cones aren’t bad either!Beverly Street, Staunton VAhttp://www.thesplitbanana.com/

Brusters: Okay, probably a chain, but it comes with “local” recommendations. First, they have an extensive ice cream flavor list. Second, if you’re shopping hard in the Rt. 33/Valley Mall area and you need a quick ice cream break, this is your closest option (next to Hams & Outback Steakhouse). As one colleague summed it up – “great ice cream.”

221 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA, 540-801-0700Open daily 11am-10pm

Kline’s Dairy Bar: It’s an “institution here in the Valley” and it’s the best “frozen custard” around. Chocolate and Vanilla are always available, as well as the flavor of the week. Each location (Downtown, South Main, Staunton, and Waynesboro) offers a different flavor of the week, so you can tour around all week to satisfy your ice cream cravings. The Staunton location offers “dine-in” seating, so you are “covered if it rains.” The South Main location is the closest to BC and has more patio seating than the downtown Harrisonburg location, “and fewer JMU students.” But the downtown location has been in place since 1964, and has the “original” feel. You can get the complete flavor of the week listings at http://www.klinesdairybar.com/58 East Wolfe Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802OR2425 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801OR906 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA OR1235 West Main Street, Waynesboro, VA

Seeking Gelato? Check out the Split Banana above.

Misc. Items of Interest

Bookstores

Green Valley Bookfair We have Barnes and Nobles and Books-a-Million, but what sets the Valley apart is the Green Valley Book Fair. Hardbacks for $5 and paperbacks for $2.50-$3. “ -- Nice place to browse for leisure-time reading. Open for two weeks every other month.” Open 9AM-7PM on scheduled dates only. 2192 Green Valley Lane, Mt. Crawford, VA 22841.800-385-0099.http://www.gvbookfair.com

Stone Soup Books and Café: This bookstore/café could be listed with the restaurants but it is listed here because the bookstore is so unique. It offers books from every category and genre, both new and used, and if you don’t find what you are looking for, they specialize in finding and ordering it for you. According to their web site, their mission is to provide a space in the community for people to gather and discuss or share books and ideas. The café serves seasonal soups, salads, and sandwiches, all made with local ingredients. Special events include live music every Friday.M-Sat, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Fridays 10:00 am - 9:00 pm908 West Main Street, Waynesboro, VA 22980540-943-0084http://www.stonesoupbooks.net/index.php

Best Mechanics

Bridgewater Car Care: “--extremely honest, usually do the work within a day, and within walking distance of the campus.” On Rt 42 in Bridgewater, call 540-828-3098.

Hussey’s on Rt 42 (Main Street) in Bridgewater. If you need an oil change, tire repaired, etc., these guys are great and just a short walk from camp-us. “When they could not make our electrical repair, they sent us up the street to Exxon for no charge!” 540-828-2555

Exxon on Rt 42 (Main Street) in Bridgewater. Dunkin Donuts and the best electrical mechanic in town!

Thrift StoresThere are a number of excellent thrift stores and consignment shops worth checking out for the bargains. The Bridgewater Retirement Community puts on GREAT "yard sales" typically in conjunction with the Bridgewater Town Yard Sale Day – usually twice a year in June and September. If you need a place to drop off your goodies and perchance pick up a few items on the way out the door try these great thrift stores:

Mercy House Thrift Store Rt 42/ 1005 High Street, Harrisonburg, Va. http://www.themercyhouse.org/

Gift & Thrift: 731 Mt. Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, 540.433.8844 http://giftandthrift.org/. Next door you also have the opportunity to explore Ten Thousand Villages.

Tried & True Thrift Shop Next to Costco, 600-B University Boulevard, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, 540.442.7250

Nursery’s

The Andre Viette Farm and Nursery: This nursery offers more than just plants and garden supplies but also hosts the Saturday morning “In The Garden” radio show on WSVA 550 AM. http://www.inthegardenradio.com/viettenursery.php?pg=353. They also offer a number of lectures, programs, and events including the end of July Day Lily Festival and Wine Tasting. 994 Long Meadow Road, Fishersville, VA

Shreckhise: Just down I-81 in Weyers’ Cave you’ll find a large nursery that deals with everything: annuals, trees, shrubs and design! Even in the heat of the summer, they were open on Sundays but you might want to call before you drive over! 610 Weyers Cave Road, 234-8500.

Village Garden Center: is located on Rt. 250 east of Staunton in Fishersville. Another place with a huge selection of trees, annuals, and shrubs. Good guarantees on plants – perennials for 60 days, trees for one year! http://www.villgc.com/ 1362 Jefferson Highway (Rt 250), Fishersville, VA 22939540-885-7342

Evergrowing Greenhouse on Thomas Spring Road, around the corner from Ottobine, Dayton and Spring Creek. Steve and Stella Showalter have the best mums in the fall, fantastic annuals – flowers and vegetables in spring, mulch and mushroom compost (if you need a boost for your soil!)…they are closed on Sunday. You can pick up a scoop of mulch or get it delivered for a minimal extra charge.6263 Thomas Spring Spring Road, Bridgewater VA, 828-2434.

Edible Landscaping: Just over Afton Mountain in Afton, Virginia you’ll find an excellent nursery that deals primarily with edible plants (e.g. blueberry bushes, plum trees, etc.). Visit them in person to browse their plants or go on-line to a catalog. 361 Spirit Ridge Ln., Afton, VA 22920http://www.ediblelandscaping.com/

Movie Theaters

The Dixie Theater: The Dixie is a great place to catch movie “a bit late but dang cheap.” Tickets are $6 unless you catch a matinee before 6:00 pm in which case you can see a flick for $5. On Sunday nights they show classic films at 8:00 pm for free. For such great prices, who cares if you see Pirates of the Caribbean a few weeks later than everybody else. For a list of movies and movie times check out: http://www.thedixietheater.com/. 125 E. Beverley Street - at the corner of Beverley and Market Streets, Staunton, VA540.885.8445

The Visulite Theater: This is your Valley Indie Theater and the home of the “dinner and a movie” specials (with the Staunton Grocery and Baja Bean). Regular tickets are $8. They also have great refreshments (“hmmm…movie with a cream soda and dark chocolate”) at the concession stand. For a list of movies and times check out: http://www.visulitecinemas.com/. 12. N. Augusta St. (Business Rte. 11/250), a half block north of Beverley St., Staunton, VA.

The Court Square Theater: Located in Harrisonburg, at Court Square, this theater does a little bit of everything. They’ll have live performances (theater, music, dance), film festivals (a great Latino Film Festival each year and a “kidflix” series in the summer) and you can even rent the space for your own events. It’s a great place to see a concert or watch a movie. For upcoming events check out: http://courtsquaretheater.com/. 61 Graham Street—Next to Cally’s and the Artful Dodger at Court Square., Harrisonburg, VA

Hull’s Drive-In Theater: Do not think XXX but family fun! Located on the northern side of Lexington on Rt. 11, about 45 minutes from Bridgewater. For those of us who did not grow up in the time of the drive-in, this is a blast from the past that makes for a fabulous summer evening trip for the whole family! For a list of movies and times check out: http://www.hullsdrivein.com/ or the movie Info Line 540-463-26212367 North Lee Highway, Lexington VA 24450From I-81, exit 195 to Route 11 South, then 1 mile (on right???)

Backpacking and Hiking SuppliesRockfish Gap Outfitters By serving the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers, this outfitters store has just about everything you need to escape to the back-country. Hiking boots, trail maps, Yakima rack parts, even Kayaks, canoes, and clothing. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. 1461 East Main Street, Waynesboro, VA 22980540-943-1461

Wilderness Voyagers Not as big as Rockfish Gap Outfitters, but if you need something close by, they offer all of the gear, clothing, and accessories you might need. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly staff.1544 East Market Street, Harrisonburg (Next to the Holiday Inn at the Rt. 33/I 81 interchange). 540-434-7234http://www.wildernessvoyagers.com/

SupermarketsFood Lion, Kroger, and the ubiquitous Wal-Mart, of which Harrisonburg has two and Staunton one, are the everyday groceries in our area. Most of us report doing at least some of our shopping in these stores. Food Lion and Wal-Mart occupy the budget end of the spectrum and Kroger at least tries to be a bit more upscale. Costco must claim a place in this document though it’s hard to classify this warehouse retailer. This list presents alternatives to these generic chain groceries - the options beyond Food Lion, Kroger, and Wal-Mart.

Upscale Chain Groceries

Costco (Harrisonburg): Costco doesn’t really fit in the upscale category, but in fact there are a lot of quality items in its rather wide inventory. The atmosphere is warehouse, but there are good things available here, especially if buying in bulk either for a big family or for a party fits your needs. This Costco is pretty much like every other Costco, a bit smaller than those in larger metropolitan areas, but really once your inside the building, you could think you were in any Costco anywhere. There is no local flavor, but Costco’s gas is usually the cheapest in town and that is becoming a real plus.1830 Reservoir Street

Harris Teeter (Charlottesville): A big store on the order of Martins (see below), but at least one contributor to this listing judges it’s enough better to warrant the drive over the mountain once in a while if not every week. Not quite pricey or as organic as Whole Foods (again see below), Harris Teeter is, however, a definite step up from Kroger. A few years ago Harris Teeter and Kroger made a deal in which HT got North Carolina and Kroger Virginia. The Charlottesville store was exempted from that division of territory and so is the lone HT store in the state, a sort of jewel in the grocery store crown. The seafood here is good, not as over the top as Whole Foods but good and usually a tad cheaper. Barracks Road Shopping Center, Route 29

Martins (Waynesboro, Staunton, and Harrisonburg): Martins, a branch of Giant Foods, is the new kid on the block in our area with stores opened within the past two years in Waynesboro, Staunton and Harrisonburg. Definitely a notch above Kroger and Food Lion, the Martins are big stores. Our colleagues rate the produce section as the best of all the Harrisonburg/Staunton chain stores with a surprisingly lush and wide array of organic and ethnic veggies and fruits as well as the usual stuff. At least one correspondent, however, expressed disappointment with the seafood and bakery. Another person noted the wide variety of cheeses and wonderful olive bar. Martins has also been running very appealing deals on gasoline with ten to twenty cent a gallon discounts accrued by buying groceries. Staunton:1015 Richmond Rd. (Rt. 250E) across from Lowes and Walmart near I81 Staunton Exit. Harrisonburg: Route 33E beyond Target, etc.

The Friendly City Food Coop:New to Harrisonburg this summer, and open to members and non-members alike!! There’s little reason to drive all the way to Whole Foods in C’ville, with the co-op now in our backyard. Great selections of organic veggies and fruits; bulk foods; and local fare from farms, dairies, bakeries and even restaurants. They’ve got an excellent salad bar available at lunch time. And you’ll be supporting the local economy. It’s a win/win!8am-9pm, 7 days a week 150 E. Wolfe St. in downtown Harrisonburg http://www.friendlycityfoodcoop.com/

Whole Foods (Charlottesville): This is almost an hour drive away, but for those devoted to Whole Foods ethic and ethos the drive is worth the trouble – besides there are plenty of other errands to run in C’ville. The store recently moved to a brand new, larger building next to Kmart on Hydraulic Rd. Like most Whole Foods stores, it is well run with a friendly and well-trained staff. This is the place for really good seafood – very expensive but really good. Their bakery also trumps all other grocery store bakeries in the area. Other items recommended by colleagues include bulk olives, great European goat feta, and other weirdly wonderful cheeses. Also check out the coffee and tea selections and there are surprising bargains in the wine section. The husband of a faculty member particularly recommends the wine consultant, a young woman who knows her stuff and is really nice too - nothing snobby or necessarily expensive about this wine section.1797 Hydraulic Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901434- 973-4900

Specialty and/or Mom and Pop Groceries

Asian/Latino Grocery (Harrisonburg): International! Behind the very popular Taste of Tai Restaurant on Route 42 (see Taste of Thai address above), this is a world of international food - Central and South American, Asian, African, and Asian! Reputed to be the best soy sauce source in town and fresh tortillas too. Ask about frozen squid. Ask about anything – the people on the register are very helpful!Route 42

Foods of All Nations (Charlottesville): Located on the street that eventually runs in front of Mr. Jefferson’s Rotunda at UVa, “Foods of All Nations” is a venerable Charlottesville institution, specializing in gourmet and “hard to find items.” The meat, seafood, and cheeses are beautiful and expensive. Ditto for the aisles stuffed with exotic spices, condiments, fifty different kinds of lentils from three continents, etc.. This is a fun place to window shop, but actually many of the items are more unusual than over-priced and you’re apt to find something you want to eat and can afford. The produce section though small is reasonable priced and stocked with local products, often the earliest place to get good local tomatoes, peaches, or apples. There is a good deli and take out area – the sushi is recommended, a great snack before or after using the UVa libraries.2121 Ivy Road, Charlottesville

IGA (Bridgewater): Closest grocery to the college! One colleague declares this is the best source for ground beef. Others relate that when they pop in to pick up just one thing, they are always surprised at how much is there, particularly the local produce and the great hunks of yellow rat cheese. Of course you can also purchase pink birthday cakes, fishing tackle, and ammunition in a wide variety of calibers if you need any of these items. It’s a real community store, great grandchild of the traditional general store.519 Main Street (north end)

Kate’s Natural Products and Sue’s Super Nutrition (Harrisonburg): These are good places for veggie/vegan shopping especially if you don’t have time to go across the mountain to Charlottesville. Both offer bulk foods and spices, vitamins, natural cosmetics and medicines. Kate’s, 451 University Blvd, 433-2359Sue’s, 3060 South Main Street, 432-9855

Red Front (Harrisonburg): This is a real local mom and pop operation, with a devoted following including all kinds of hungry Harrisonburg citizens – a neighborhood institution and definitely worth investigating. 677 Chicago Avenue

Russian Market (Harrisonburg): Off Route 11, turn between Wendy’s and El Charro down the road where the skating rink and bike shop are. This was one the writer does not know – sounds intriguing.

Sharp Shopper (Harrisonburg): Recommended by a colleague as really cheap.2475 Main Street S.

T&E Meats (Harrisonburg): Recommended for ribs, briskets, and steaks. A colleague declares the meat and the service here are better than at Costco or Walmart and price is the same – great for big orders. Also they now carry meat from sustainable farms like Polyface. Represented as the only place in Harrisonburg to get a whole untrimmed beef brisket. 256 Charles St Harrisonburg, VA 22802-4612 - (540) 434-9920

Tangier Island Seafood Market (Harrisonburg): Recommended for seafood. 1311 South High Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-434-2662

Bakeries

Newtown Bakery (Staunton): Really well made artisan breads - bread with good tooth and texture as well as flavor - and delicious pastries. Costs more than Wonder

Bread and Twinkies, but so much better! This seems to be the place in Staunton to meet for coffee and leave with a loaf of bread and bag of breakfast muffins.960 West Beverley Streetclosed on Mondays

Shank’s Bakery (Harrisonburg): The one cake the writer had from this bakery was excellent – rich and moist with all the hallmarks of a very good homemade cake. Don’t know why I haven’t been back except that I live at the far end of our community from Harrisonburg. If you are closer, this is definitely a place worth checking out, advertised as “everything from scratch” and offering sugar free and vegan choices as well as more standard cakes, pies, and breads.49 Water StreetMonday – Friday 7-7Saturday 7-3

Wine Shops and BreweriesHarrisonburg used to be without a beer/wine store, but now there are several different options available... Kroger's on Rt 33 and Costco behind the mall both have decent selections and competitive pricing.

Downtown Wine and Gourmet: Tastings on Friday nights.41 Court Square Suite C, Harrisonburg, VA 22801540-432-9463

Joshua Wilton House (Harrisonburg): Wine of the Month club. The Wine of the Month Program at the Joshua Wilton House offers you three to four bottles (the chef’s choice) per month to sample wines you might not normally find for $35.00 per month (plus tax). You pay by the quarter and pick up your wines one a month—a real value!412 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801540-434-4464

Queen City Brewery (Staunton): Tastings of samples, bluegrass music on Friday nights, and mixed your own six packs and growlers.834 Springhill Rd, Staunton, VA

Vintage Wines: Good selection and tastings on Saturdays. 498-G University Boulevard, Harrisonburg, VA 22801Phone: 540-442-8884

CrossKeys Vineyards and Estate: A local winery that started in 2001 and opened for tastings and events in 2007. It is a wonderful place to visit, taste, and have a picnic looking over the mountains. Also during the summer they have Friday gatherings with a band and light appetizers. Other events occur across the year. 6011 East Timber Ridge Rd, Mt Crawford, VA 22841

540-234-0505Open Daily: 11:00 am – 7:00 pmhttp://www.crosskeysvineyards.com/

Barren Ridge Vineyards: From the web site: Located on the family’s former apple orchard, Barren Ridge Vineyards is now home to Augusta County’s premier winery.  John and Shelby Higgs converted their old apple barn into a state-of-the-art winery, preserving the original structure and wood beams.  Inside you’ll find a blazing hearth and outside, a sitting area with panoramic views of the mountains. “Firelight Fridays” events held every third Friday of the month with food, local music, and dancing.984 Barren Ridge Road, Fishersville, Virginia 22939540-248-3300http://www.barrenridgevineyards.com/

Farm Stands, Markets and Food Coops

Indoor Year-round Farmer’s MarketsThere are two year-round indoor “farmers’ market” venues between Bridgewater and Harrisonburg, one on Route 42 and other on 11. Popular, both as tourist attractions and as local resources for food and lots more, these two “markets” listed are not actually or just local produce markets

Dayton Farmer’s Market (Dayton) Several writers included this venue on their list of important resources in the area and the remarks were all very positive, including one that described the market as “A place I would probably live if allowed….” This market has a little bit of everything, a butcher, baker, and yes, even candles. Also available and fun to look at, sample, and even buy are lunch, coffee, ice cream, handmade candies, kitchen goods, lamps, perfume, rugs, cards, handmade quilts, toys … the list is long. Many people make a regular stop at “Grandma’s Pantry” inside the Market, where they pick up bulk items. Worth a trip.3102 John Wayland Hwy (Route 42)540-879-3801www.daytonfarmersmarket.com Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 9 to 6 with extended days and hours for Christmas season

Shenandoah Heritage Farmer’s Market (Harrisonburg): Offering a country market feel this indoor market provides the shopper with many options from kitchen supplies, antiques, to seasonal produce.121 Carpenter Lane on Route 11 South from I-81 exit 243, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

Seasonal Farmer’s Markets and FarmsMore information about local markets and farms can be found at http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/vagrown/index.shtml

Augusta/Staunton Farmer’s Market offers a variety of local foods and is open twice a week at two locations. Beginning the first week of April until the last week of October on Wednesdays the market is open from Noon – 5pm in Verona (Location: At the Market dock (on the south end) of the Augusta County Government Center on Rt. 11 in Verona, VA.). Beginning the first Saturday of April until the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving on the market is open from 7 am – 12 pm in Downtown Stauton (Location: At the Wharf Parking Lot on Johnson Street in historic downtown Staunton.). See the website for more details: http://www.safarmersmarket.com/

Downtown Harrisonburg Farmer’s Market offers a wonderful selection of local foods and is open twice a week during the growing season. The market is open every Tuesday and Saturday from 7am-1pm, from Easter to Thanksgiving. See the website for more details: http://harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com/

The Municipal Parking Lot on South Liberty Street across from the Daily News Record

Polyface, Inc. (Swoope). From the website: Polyface, Inc. is a family owned, multi-generational, pasture-based, beyond organic, local-market farm and informational outreach in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. From Omnivore’s Dilemma fame this sustainable farm offers meats, eggs, and produce at their farm and in some local stores. See the website for details: http://www.polyfacefarms.com/default.aspx

Heartland Harvest Farm (Mt. Solon) uses rotational grazing and sustainable farming practices to raise farm animals and vegetation. Products can be purchased at the local farmer’s markets and at their farm. http://heartlandharvestfarm.com/85 Curry Road Mount Solon, VA 22843

FOOD COOPS & Community Supported Agriculture FarmsNow that Friendly City Food Coop is open (see above description) Staunton also has a Food Coop in the works. For more information contact:

Back Door Butcher (Staunton): backdoorbutcher@ntelos.net; 540-213-0040Valley Market (Staunton): http://www.valleymarket.org/

There are also several Community Supported Agriculture Farms. Buy a membership and then reap the bounty of the harvest all spring, summer and fall.

Glen Eco Farm in Singers Glen: glenecofarm@planetcomm.net.Radical Roots Community Farm in Keezletown: http://www.radicalrootsfarm.com/ JMD Farm in New Hope: www.newhopejmdfarm.comRadell Shrock in Harrisonburg: 540-908-5399.

Fun Around Town and Farther Afield:Be sure to keep an eye on the local papers – Eighty-One, Harrisonburg’s Daily News Record, Staunton’s News Leader for information on festivals, chicken barbecue fundraisers, Dayton Days, and local “Lawn Parties.” Every town with enough people to get a post office from Bridgewater to Grottoes to Bergton has a summer festival that often involve greasy food and carnival rides. The local papers have the dates. For maybe more local color than you had in mind, go to the estate auctions that are advertised in the paper! The papers are also a way to browse the works of local artists, and see dates/times for local theater groups and choral societies performances!

Bridgewater’s Local Environs: Wildwood Park: Bridgewater has a nice large park at the end of West Bank Street with lots of picnic tables along the river, children's playground equipment, and a suspension bridge. This is a great place to take a group of students for a picnic. You can reserve the shelter for your picnic or event by calling the town Treasurer’s office at 828-6980.

Harrisonburg-Rockingham County Historical Society: if history is your thing, get involved! More information at http://www.heritagecenter.com/!

Sandy Bottom Par 3: Want to try golf but not at the prices a “real” course charges? Want more of a challenge than putt-putt? Check out the FREE par 3, nine hole course in Bridgewater. To get to Sandy Bottom Park take College Street east until you get to the end of the street. You will then be facing the Sandy Bottom Park sign. Turn left and continue past the town maintenance building to the parking area. The first tee is on your left.

Silver Lake Mill: Located on Silver Lake Road just outside of Dayton (2328 Silver Lake Road, Dayton, VA). This is a Civil War site and location of store for Shenandoah Valley-made crafts and gifts. Commemorative items for Virginia's historical sites made on location in the mill's upstairs, tours are available. Call 540-879-3582 for more information, hours posted recently: Thu-Sat 10AM-5PM.

Grand Caverns: Grand Caverns was amazing! In Weyer's Cave this is a really nice park but this can be a great trip to tour the caverns in the rain.  It's free for hiking and picnicking, but to swim or tour the caverns there is a charge.  Be sure to tell the cashier if you reside in either Augusta or Rockingham counties since residents pay a reduced price. Located less than 30 min from Bridgewater, you can find more information at http://www.grandcaverns.com/.

Natural Chimneys:  For inexpensive and enjoyable outdoor activities, try Natural Chimneys which is less than 30 min from Bridgewater. If you just plan to hike any of the trails around the chimneys (which range from easy & paved to difficult & you're-not-

sure-if-you're-still-on-the-trail), you can park in the Mt. Solon recreational parking lot before the entrance to the Chimneys and walk over (we asked, and yes, it's okay to do this if you’re just going for a hike).  Natural Chimneys also hosts an annual jousting tournament.  The park website is http://www.virginia.org/site/description.asp?attrid=24442 and last time we checked, it cost $6.00 to drive up to the Chimneys or it is free if you park in the swimming pool parking lot and walk. It is a level and easy short walk. The swimming pool is clean, not crowded, and is a bargain at only $3.00.

Shenandoah Valley Choral Society: is one group to check out for those who sing, http://singshenandoah.org/. Another group to find is Daughters of Song.  Daughters of Song is a small group, without a website, but local BC folks can put you in touch with them. There is also the Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir, for more information see http://www.emu.edu/svcc/.

Free Bluegrass Music: check with the locals, but a number of venues including Spring Creek Hall, Grottoes and Queen City Brewing (see info above) in Staunton have free events at least once a month. Often the places are packed, but it is worth going. It has been a fun, lively and free experience. The groups who play are serious about their music but are polishing as you listen!

Harrisonburg’s Local Environs:

Children's Museum: is a must for parents with young kids! Located on Rt. 11 north in Harrisonburg, this is an awesome place for people with kids - great place to hang out as well as super programs offered year round. Their website is http://www.hcmuseum.org/cms/.

Shenandoah Valley Bike Club: For recreational "road warriors" check out the Shenandoah Valley Bike Club (http://www.svbikeclub.org/). Events are at http://www.svbikeclub.org/events.htm. Also, a useful link for Virginia bike and walking trail routes from the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy -- http://www.traillink.com/.

You Made It! While painting pottery is not free, it is loads of fun, especially when it is raining! You Made It is located on Rt 11 north just before you get to Court Square...this is a great rainy day thing to do with a group of friends or kids...pick a piece of pottery, pay for the piece and a studio fee, then paint!  Call them at 540-434-4500 for their hours of operation. No worries if you don't know one end of the brush from another, the kind staff will help you make your piece unique (http://www.youmadeit.net/).

Bach Festival: is held every year in the Valley. For more information about 2008, check out http://www.emu.edu/bach/.

Reddish Knob: Everyone needs to make the drive up to Reddish Knob (or bike it if you dare)! Beautiful drive and amazing 360 degree views when you get there. Take along

a blanket and picnic if possible. Watch the sunset from there too, it is spectacular! More information on the National Forest at http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/.

Slate Lick Fields: If you want primitive camping for free try the Slate Lick Fields camping area. It is west of Harrisonburg along Genoa Road (off of Hopkins Gap Rd) and is very remote in the George Washington National Forest. Really cool designated camping spots in the woods by a big open fields with a stocked trout stream, deer feeding in the fields, etc. More information on the National Forest at http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/.

Camping at Long Run Road: Another local camping area is along Long Run Road, it is also west of Harrisonburg, along Hopkins Gap Road in George Washington National Forest. BEWARE, this is a forest road and is pretty rugged. Suggest a 4WD vehicle to travel on it. Very long, bumpy and windy. Beautiful views, great hikes, tons of wildlife (birds, deer, bear, etc.) on top of mountain makes it worth the trip! More information on the National Forest at http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/.

Blue Hole: a local swimming area out on Route 33 west of Harrisonburg in the George Washington National Forest is fun. Can get crowded when it gets hot, on weekends or 4th of July. More information on the National Forest at http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/.

Staunton’s Local Environs:

Gypsy Hill Park: This beautiful park has it all – Olympic size swimming pools, childrens' playgrounds, lots of entertainment venues at the gazebo, tennis, duckpond, Gypsy Express miniature train ride and picnic facilities! For excellent summer music, check out the “Jazz in the Park” every Thursday night (after July 4th) from 8:00-10:00pm at the gazebo or the Stonewall Brigade Band [the Nation’s Oldest Town Band] on Monday evenings (after Memorial Day) from 8:00-9:15pm (a concession stand is available for both events—with hotdogs, grilled onions, popcorn and soft drinks). Free and fun for families to spread a blanket and listen to outstanding musicians from around the country and sometimes internationally.  Bring the kids and the dog! Information at Staunton Parks and Recreation (540) 332-3945.

The Blackfriars Theater: is not to be missed.  It is an experience like no other.  The actors engage the audience in the show.  Their motto, "We do it with the lights on" replicating the ambience of theater in Shakespearean times. More information at http://www.americanshakespearecenter.com/ .

Oak Grove Theater:  located in Verona, VA this is still one of the best values around.  Season tickets will get you five outstanding theater performances in the beautiful outside setting of Oak Grove during the summer months.  For more info:  http://www.oakgrovetheater.org/.  The Waynesboro Players also put on three performances in the Fall/Spring season.  More information at www.waynesboroplayers.org.

ShenanArts:  Verona is just the place for theater! A non-profit group that hosts youth theater camps and puts on plays! Check out http://www.shenanarts.org/ for more information!

Staunton Downtown Walking Tour: will give you a tour of Staunton's unique and fantastic downtown area and its history.  Make sure to stop in Trinity Church and see the beautfiul Tiffany stained glass windows in addition to experiencing one of the oldest churches in our area. More information at 800-332-5219.

American Museum of Frontier Culture: a wonderful walk into the past.  Working farms with volunteers in costume to take you back in time to the various farms found in Virginia.  Outstanding entertainment for the whole family, link at http://www.frontiermuseum.org/ .

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum: located in Staunton, this museum has a treasure of information about one of Virginia’s own presidents. Check out http://www.woodrowwilson.org/ for more information.

Augusta County Historical Society: if history is your thing, get involved! More information at http://www.augustacountyhs.org/.

Valley League Baseball featuring excellent collegiate players. No matter where you are in the Valley, there’s a local team to watch. The Harrisonburg Turks or The Staunton Braves, for example. Schedule, location and tons of information available at http://www.stauntonbravesbaseball.com/ Or http://www.valleyleaguebaseball.com/!

Charlottesville’s Local Environs:

Monticello: Tour the historic, mountaintop plantation house that Jefferson designed, built and furnished for himself and his family. The architecture, art, books, and panoramic views are definitely worth the visit! You can also tour the plantation and beautiful gardens April-October and the tour can be paired with the wine trail (see below). You can purchase tickets and find more information online at http://www.monticello.org/.

Carter Mountain Orchards: If you like to pick your own apples and peaches, this is the place! The orchard is at the top of Carter Mountain right near Monticello. The Apple Harvest Festival in October is a great family event (though I recommend going early b/c the crowds get quite large). After working hard to pick all those apples, you can treat yourself to their homemade, hot apple cider donuts…mmmm! http://www.cartermountainorchard.com/index.shtm

Historic Downtown Mall: “This pedestrian mall is home to a vibrant collection of more than 120 shops and 30 restaurants located in the historic buildings on and around

old Main Street Charlottesville.” The downtown mall has everything – art galleries, theaters, discovery museum, ice skating rink, outdoor concert pavilion, unique boutiques – and the restaurants range from café style to fine dining to nightclub! Go to “Fridays After 5” (see below) during the summer.

Charlottesville Pavilion: A relatively new, outdoor concert venue, it has been attracting bigger and more widely known performers, as well as local bands. Go to http://www.charlottesvillepavilion.com/ for concert schedule and ticket information.

The Paramount Theater:  Beautifully renovated theater located on the downtown mall featuring music, comedy, dance, live arts – an exceptional variety! Schedule and ticket information at http://www.theparamount.net/.

John Paul Jones Arena: Home to the University of Virginia men’s and women’s basketball teams, “JPJ” hosts large concerts, family shows and community events. See web site for schedule of events.http://www.johnpauljonesarena.com/index.asp

Fridays After 5: A free, summer concert series event on the downtown mall that runs every Friday 5:30-8:30 until the middle of September. Usually features local bands from a variety of musical genres. A great way to unwind from the week and kick off the weekend!http://www.charlottesvillepavilion.com/fridaysafterfive/

Virginia Discovery Museum: A hands-on interactive museum for young children located on the downtown mall. The backroom exhibit changes every few months. Admission is only $4…totally worth it! Located on the downtown mall.http://www.vadm.org/membership.html

Wine Trail: There are too many wineries to list but you can check out the different trails and maps at http://www.monticellowinetrail.com/. Happy tasting!

Barrack’s Road Shopping Center: If you get tired of the shopping options in the Shenandoah Valley, you can head over to Barrack’s Road for more variety. A lot of name brand clothing stores but has gift shops, jewelry stores, home decorating stores and restaurants as well – think typical shopping mall outdoors (not to be confused with the downtown mall). http://www.barracksroad.com/

Further A Field:

Luray Caverns: are stunning, one of the world's biggest caverns in our back yard.  They also have a fun garden maze for keeping kids busy for an hour or two!  Neat antique car museum too. The caverns are located near New Market. This is a nice break from summer heat or winter chill since the cavern temperature is mid-50's year round. Link: http://www.luraycaverns.com/

Endless Caverns: Smaller than Luray, Endless Caverns are actually a much healthier subterranean ecosystem, with well protected and still growing stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a small colony of bats. The tour groups are smaller than at Luray, and the path is rougher – unpaved and narrow, to protect the fragile cave system – but this provides a more natural experience. New Market, VA. http://morganrvresorts.com/pages/endlesscaverns_homepage

Natural Bridge: is fantastic and according to some, one of the seven natural wonders of the world!  Walk to the waterfall and visit the Monocan village, more information at http://www.naturalbridgeva.com/.

Virginia Safari Park: which is a unique experience.  You can feed wild animals right out of your car. More information at http://www.virginiasafaripark.com/, this is right off Interstate-81 south of Bridgewater and it is about a 45 minute drive.

Todd Lake and Sherando Lake: If you want to swim, hike, bike, fish, camp, try Sherando Lake Recreation Area which is just outside of Waynesboro (I-81 south, I-64 east). It is local and beautiful! Link: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/gp/recreation/camping/developed/sherando_lake/. Todd Lake is even closer, just west of Natural Chimneys in the George Washington National Forest.

Shenandoah National Park.  This is a BIG park with many different places to stop and hang out. In the fall there is almost no place on earth more beautiful than this park with the leaves in full color! Of course, the fall leaves will make for crowded roads, so check it out at other times too! Here are a few sites mentioned specifically by BC folks.

· Camp Rapidan near Big Meadows.  This was the summer "Camp David" of President and Mrs. Hoover.  The Park Service has recently restored a couple of the buildings including the main cabin.  There is a good exhibit in the Byrd Visitor's Center on the building of the park by the Civilian Conservation Corp.  Just outside the Byrd Center is a statue of one of the workers and the statue in named "Iron Mike".  This statue was given by the Barlow family, including Bruce and Marty, in memory of Bruce's parents.  His dad worked in the CCC and met Bruce's mom at that time.  A good meal can be had at the Big Meadows Lodge. Information on all of this can be found at www.nps.gov/shen.

· Humpback Rock Area is great for spending an entire day, they have a store, places to cook, picnic tables, and bathrooms!

· Loft Mountain is another day trip with a store, food shop, trails, picnic facilities, and bathrooms!

http://www.shenandoah.national-park.com/visit.htm

New Market Battlefield: is a very nice tribute to the bravery of Virginia Military Institute's cadets as they faced Union forces breaching the mountain gap at New Market. Museum and tours available.

Barboursville Winery: pack a picnic and take Rt 33 east out of Harrisonburg in mid to late October, the leaves will be awesome.  Stop at the top of the mountain to look around and see the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Continue east on Rt. 33, stop at the bottom of the mountain at Blue Ridge Pottery.  Continue east on Rt. 33 through Ruckersville (cross Rt 29) - you may want to antique at this crossroads.  Go even further east on Rt. 33 and then follow the signs at Route 20 to Barboursville Winery.  There is a wonderful building designed by T. Jefferson for VA governor Barbour with an octagonal room.  Enjoy and more info at http://www.barboursvillewine.com/! A fun evening getaway in the summer is going to the "Shakespeare in the Ruins" over at the Barboursville Vineyard. They have a local Shakespeare troupe perform on a stage at the ruins of the Barboursville Mansion. The vineyard does wine tastings and sales there and everyone brings blankets and picnic dinners. Really quaint and unique setting for a play!

Montpelier: is also east on Rt 33 to north on Rt 20 (may be combined with previous trip for a very long day) - stop at Montpelier, home of James Madison the father of the VA and federal Bill of Rights...pack a picnic.  Also consider checking the website http://www.montpelier.org/ for special archaeology days and the hunt races for steeple chase horse racing on the grounds one weekend in the fall each year! The site also hosts the Fiber Festival in October where you can watch sheep-dog trials and explore fiber exhibits.

Raphine Exit: you might not expect so much fun from a “truck stop” exit off of I-81 south but so far everyone sent this way for the day comes back happy!  Take the Raphine exit off I-81 and follow the road WEST - your first stop can be the Rockbridge winery, on your right about 2-3 miles west of I-81.  After the winery, continue WEST for 1-2 more miles and park at the Wades Mill - grist mill still in operation so you can buy grits or take a cooking class - more info at http://www.wadesmill.com/!

Roanoke: is 100 miles south of Bridgewater, but worth the trip for a weekend! Always a wonderful drive in the fall when the leaves are colored and you can see mountains on both sides of the interstate! Stay on the Market downtown, eat, shop, catch a play, see the transportation museum, go up to the Star and the zoo!  More information on Roanoke is at http://www.roanokeva.gov/

Lewisburg, West VA: a two hour drive from Bridgewater using I-81 south to I-64 west.  Stay downtown to shop and eat, antique and art browse!  On the way to Lewisburg is the Cass railroad line - a vintage railroad that takes you UP the mountain!  Amazing pictures of how they logged the old growth of the east in the books on Cass (http://www.cassrailroad.com/).  If astronomy is your thing, out near Lewisburg is the Green Bank radio antenna, tours are offered (http://www.gb.nrao.edu/gbt/). The other sight out near Lewisburg is the Greenbrier - five star hotel, golfing and the bunker built for Congress in case of nuclear attack (http://www.greenbrier.com/site/). And let’s not

forget the Greenbrier River Trail which offer 80 miles of excellent biking between Lewisburg and Cass (http://greenbrierrivertrail.com/).

Mabry Mill: you can get there by taking Route 33 east and get on the Blue Ridge Parkway going south - it is a day drive but so worth it to see the winding road, amazing vistas and the Mill - you are almost in NC by the time you get there, so plan an overnight and the slow drive south (http://www.brptrails.com/brp1762.htm!

Highland Maple Festival: in Monterey, Highland Co. Virginia in the early spring as the sap starts to rise in the trees! This is about tasty, sweet treats right from nature. For more information check out http://www.highlandcounty.org/maple.htm.

Seneca Rocks and the Monongahela National Forest: are just a few hours drive over the mountains into West Virginia and offer lots of outdoor fun: fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, camping, boating, horseback riding, bird watching, etc.  More information at http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/mnf/sp/sksrnra.html.

Wayne C Henderson Guitar Festival: is held in Mouth of Wilson, VA on the 3rd Saturday in June if you enjoy old-time and bluegrass music. The park is located right on the NC/VA line in the Grayson Highlands State Park (http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/gra.shtml). The setting is beautiful.  The crowd is friendly, family-oriented, and not-too-big. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks.  And even find some shade to put your lawn chair for the day.  It's a four-hour drive each way and camping is available in the park for those who want to stay longer.

Garth Newel: Chamber music, and occasionally jazz , on route 220 in Warm Springs, one and 3/4 hours from here, $20.00 and worth the time and money.  During summer and early autumn weekends, there is a different program every Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.  There are occasional free concerts by this group at VMI in Lexington during the school year, and there will be one at the center itself on Friday, Aug. 3.   There are good nearby restaurants, low, medium, upper medium and really high, and Garth Newel itself does a gourmet meal on Saturday evenings after the concert, $50.00 inclusive of wine with dinner and a little additional music. Check out: http://www.garthnewel.org/.

The Jefferson Pools: If you are in Warm Springs (South on Rt. 220) you might as well check out Jefferson’s Pools for a relaxing soak in these historic waters. An hour soak in these mineral waters only costs $15. http://www.thehomestead.com/spa_at_the_homestead/jefferson_pools.cfm.