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TRANSCRIPT
New Memorial Honors VeteransNew Memorial Honors Veterans
Page 4Page 4
Louisa Louisa Life
All Gave Some and Some Gave AllAll Gave Some and Some Gave All
O c t o b e r 3 0 - N o v e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 5O c t o b e r 3 0 - N o v e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 5 •• ONE COPYONE COPY FREEFREE
Louisa Chorus Lifts Spirits
Page 3
Joan Wilson:Cycling at Her Own Pace
Page 12
Artemis Equestrain CenterNow Open
Page 10
2 • LOUISA LIFE• October 30 – November 28, 2015
The Orange School of Performing Arts
The Nutcracker* December 4, 2015 - 7:00pm - The State Theatre (Culpeper)* December 5, 2015 - 7:00pm - The State Theatre (Culpeper)* December 6, 2015 - 2:00pm - The State Theatre (Culpeper)* December 11, 2015 - 7:00pm - Firehouse Theatre - Dinner Theatre Performance (Orange)* December 12, 2015 - 2:00pm - Firehouse Theatre - Dinner Theatre Performance (Orange)* December 13, 2015 - 2:00pm - Piedmont Virginia Community College (Charlottesville)
DATES OF PERFORMANCES & LOCATIONS
Nutcracker Ticket Information:State Theatre Tickets: 540-829-0292
Firehouse Theatre Tickets: 540-672-9038Piedmont Virginia Community College Tickets: 540-672-9038
www.ospa.net108 Belleview Ave. Orange Va
PRESENTS
Publisher/EditorC. M. Santos
Advertising DirectorJudi Price
Advertising RepresentativeMike Povol
Office ManagerEdee Povol
Graphic DesignerMarilyn Ellinger
WritersLinda Salisbury
Pat Wilson
ContributorsArtemis Equestrian Center
Email:[email protected] sales: [email protected] address: P.O. Box 59, Palmyra, VA 22963.Office location: 2987 Lake Monticello Road, Palmyra, VA 22963Phone: (434) 591-1000Fax: (434) 589-1704
General: Louisa Life is published monthly by ValleyPublishing Corp. A total of 6,000 copies are circulatedthroughout Louisa County. One copy is free, additionalcopies are $1 each payable in advance to the publisher.
Subscriptions: Copies will be mailed for the subscrip-tion price of $40 per year. Please mail a check and a notewith your name and address to: Louisa Life SubscriptionsDept., P.O. Box 59, Palmyra, VA 22963.
Submissions, tips, ideas, etc.: Louisa Life encour-ages submissions and tips on items of interest to LouisaCounty citizens. However we reserve the right to edit submis-sions as deemed necessary and cannot guarantee they will bepublished. Email the editor: [email protected]
Classified ads: Classifieds are $10 per month. Pleasesend a written or typed copy of the ad with a $10 check to:Classifieds Department P.O. Box 59, Palmyra, VA 22963.You can also email [email protected] and payby credit card. Please specify the category it shouldappear under. Ads must be 30 words or less. Sorry,classifieds will not be taken by phone.
Disclaimer: All real estate advertised in this publi-cation is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act,which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference,limitation, or discrimination because of race, color,religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national ori-gin…” The Virginia Fair Housing Law also makes itillegal to discriminate because of elderliness (age 55and over). This publication will not knowinglyaccept any advertising for real estate which is in vio-lation of the law. All real estate advertised in thispaper is available on an equal opportunity basis.
Next advertising deadline: November 18 for theNovember 27–December 17, 2015 issue.
© Valley Publishing Corp. 2015. All rights reserved.
A monthly publication
Cover designed by Marilyn Ellinger
Combat boots in bronze were castidentical to the ones worn during the
Vietnam War. Photo by Pat Wilson.
LouisaLife
he Louisa Community Chorushas been delighting area resi-dents since 2007, partly
because of its thoughtful and creativeprogramming. This November’s concertis no exception. Carol Barfield andBurchie Carroll, co-directors havedesigned a program called “Color MySpirit,” which will be offered 7 p.m.Nov. 19, and 4 p.m. Nov. 21 at theLouisa United Methodist Church.
The 46-voice choral group will per-form spirituals and songs with colors intheir names, accompanied by Carroll,and a number of instrumentalists, suchas harp, flute, trumpet cello and piano(a solo played by Steve Comer fromMineral Baptist Church) are also partici-pating. Some of the instrumentalists arearea students.
Songs include favorites such as “BlueMoon, “Black is the Color of My TrueLove’s Hair,” “Yellow Submarine,”“Secondhand White Baby Grand,”“Going Home,” and “Bein’ Green,” andthere will be songs of the season, aswell a patriotic flourish.
Barfield said she often gets her ideaswhile swimming, and builds the pro-gram in her mind. “When you findmusic you love, you’re dying to havepeople hear what you hear,” she said.The music can “take people’s souls andlift them right out.”
The community chorus emergedafter an interdenominational group per-formed together. It quickly grew toabout 50 members and added secularpieces to its sacred repertoire. Carrollsaid the resulting size gives “the oppor-tunity for singers to have a large groupexperience” which they don’t get insmaller church choirs.
Carroll, a native of Louisa, is themusic director at Louisa PresbyterianChurch and teaches piano. Barfield,also teaches piano and has been a fos-ter parent.
Aside from selecting a theme andspecific pieces for the concerts, Barfieldcarefully plans each rehearsal so that“enough of a chunk” of each piece isworked on sufficiently during the eightrehearsals prior to the well-attended
concerts. Themes in the past have included
Broadway shows, a Celtic motif that fea-tured a Scottish fiddler, movies,Americana, love, and James Bond, butno matter what, God and country arepart of the musical mix.
Chorus members include familygroups, mothers and daughters, stu-dents, husbands and wives. Barfield’shusband, Pat, sings tenor and helpswith the setting up and taking down ofchairs.
Barfield and Carroll have tremen-dous appreciation for the support theyreceive from their board: Pat Arnold,who works on the programs and adver-tising, Katy Rice, treasurer, JoyceOsburn, music and secretary, CarolineLowry, communications, Frank Osburnand Jim Lyon.
Arnold also gives invaluable assis-tance by listening from the audiencearea. “She’s our critic in residence,”said Barfield. She lets the group know if
Carol Barfield and Burchie Carroll, co-directors, look forward to rehearsal. Photo by Linda Salisbury.
T
46-voice chorus delights LouisaBy Linda Salisbury
Correspondent
In the Spotlight: Louisa Chorus
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 3
See Chorus Page 7
ith close to four decades of military and federal civilian service, Bill Billingsley, better known to friends and colleagues as “Colo-nel Bill,” saw combat during fi ve tours in the Vietnam War.
“I got in country in July of ’66 and departed the last time in March ’74,” he said.
His vivid memories span combat perils, as well as the men with whom he served and the friendships they developed. But, he is especially mindful of his fellow sol-diers who perished and the other approximate 58,000 men and women, who gave their lives, were prisoners of war or are missing in action. These refl ections and a promise made 40-plus years ago led to the bronze memorial that now stands proud-ly on the Billingsleys’ front lawn. One incident is most vivid in his remembrances of that era.
“As his life on this earth ended, one soldier told me, ‘Don’t let them forget us,’” he said. “I made a promise to him and to myself to fi nd some way to honor my brothers whom I have seen die on the battlefi eld and in hospitals. I strongly believe that all who served in Vietnam, whether in direct combat or in a combat support role, such as a cook, mechanic or clerk, deserve recognition for their service to our country.”
The fl ags and bronze statue were a long time dream of “Col. Bill,” but until re-cently the reality of creating a commemoration to those who perished was not possible. After designing their current house near Mineral, Billingsley and his wife, Cleo, envisaged the opportunity and the location of a fi tting memorial. He wanted to recreate a Field Cross, often used on the battlefi eld as a tribute to a fallen com-rade. Combat boots on either side of a rifl e capped with a helmet typically form the cross.
“Although not an offi cial military memorial, the Field Cross is sometimes tempo-rarily erected to honor a fallen soldier killed in battle. The soldier’s own gear might even be used,” he said. “It is a way of remembering and honoring a fallen soldier and allowing some closure to fellow soldiers after a combat action.”
4 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
Cast in bronze, the Field Cross on a granite base bears the words, “All Gave Some, Some Gave All. Dedicated to those who gave all in Vietnam.”
For over 20 years, retired “Col. Bill” has been an auctioneer whose skills are sought across the country.
By Pat WilsonCorrespondent
Never To Be Forgotten
Cover StoryCover Story
Authentic and Attractive
“Col. Bill” did not want a generic memorial, but one with military gear specifi c to the Vietnam War. He began his search and, while surfi ng the In-ternet, discovered Nick Christenson, a Minnesota-based bronze sculptor and artist at NKC Studios. As the six-month long process to design and sculpt the
items using a lost wax process of hot bronze casting continued, Billingsley and the sculptor kept in constant con-tact through emails. He praised the at-tention to detail by the artisan.
“With a bit of help from me, Nick de-signed and created the only Field Cross that, to the best of my knowledge, cur-rently exists which is completely au-thentic to Vietnam,” said Billingsley.
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 5
The memorial to Vietnam servicemen and women on the Billingsleys’ front lawn serves as a reminder that the war cost the lives of over 58,000 Americans.
The Vietnam War-era helmet in bronze shows its camoufl age cover.
See Veterans Memorial page 6
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6 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
Veterans Memorial from page 5“The helmet and its camouflage cover, the M-16A1 and the army-
issue jungle boots were what we used and wore. Depicting precisegear was important to me, and I felt strongly about wanting it doneproperly. Nick Christensen was the only person with whom I spokewho knew he could do it, and he surely did.”
Billingsley also designed and selected wording for the two bronzeplaques which he purchased from a different source and attached tothe base of the memorial. In addition to listing the five ArmedForces branches, one plaque features the insignia of each andstates, “All Gave Some and Some Gave All.”
“The memorial is not to the Army alone but recognizes all whoserved in Vietnam including the Marine Corps, the Air Force, theNavy and the Coast Guard,” he said. “It is dedicated to all who gavein the war.”
A second plaque shows a Purple Heart. Although Billingsley hadreceived numerous commendations during his years of militaryservice, he considers the Purple Heart to be the one that is mostmeaningful, since it is not based on subjective merit. He holds thatit is totally objective, as it is awarded to a service member wound-ed as a direct result of enemy action.
Another of Billingsley’s concerns was finding a suitable base onwhich to mount the Field Cross, so he contacted Heritage Memorialsin Harrisonburg. Using a large piece of Georgia granite, the compa-ny built the base after consultations with Billingsley about size, loca-tion of support holes and ground attachment.
Knowing that he wanted the memorial placed in the center of hisfront yard, between his circular driveway and the road, Billingsleythen contacted Sean Ciemielewski of Stanardsville, a landscape spe-cialist. At first “Col. Bill” and Cleo considered a gravel walkway, butafter consultation with the professional landscaper, they decided touse stone pavers. In addition, they had underground electricalpower installed so that the memorial is illuminated from dusk todawn throughout the year.
“I had sketched what I wanted and the type of stone, the land-scaper did the rest,” said Billingsley. “We added a central 30-footflag pole for the American flag, and flanking that on the right is a25-foot pole with a Commonwealth of Virginia flag and a similar 25-foot pole on the left side with a POW-MIA flag.”
Renowned AuctioneerAfter his 40-year career, Billingsley knew he was not ready to truly retire, so he
decided to consider becoming a professional auctioneer. As a result, just over twodecades ago, he attended the Mendenhall School of Auctioneering in North Carolinawhich enabled him to take the Virginia exam to earn his state license. Family mem-bers recall his standing in front of a mirror practicing “selling anything” and devel-oping “the voice” he wanted. He also found some local auctioneers from whom hewas able to gain valuable experience and advice while observing and assistingthem.
Starting in the central Virginia area, his reputation soon spread, and he is now indemand across the country and even in Canada. Billingsley is licensed in over 20states, and has been known to drive to Texas or beyond to sell a variety of commodi-ties from heavy equipment to cattle. During this career, Billingsley has captured bothVirginia and Kentucky state championship honors. Still, “Col. Bill” stays true to hisroots and can be seen helping 4-H youth by auctioning livestock at the local countyfair or as a volunteer at other fund-raising auctions, especially those supportingyouth and young adults.
“A friend of mine once described success as finding something in life that youlove to do so much that you would do it for free, but being so good at it that yourget paid crazy money for doing it,” he said. “To a degree, that applies to me. I amblessed.”
Counting His BlessingsLike many other veterans, Billingsley entered the war as a teenager, and admits
that he “grew up” completing his tours as a 27-year-old. Ever since returning safelyfrom the war, the former paratrooper/Ranger/Special Forces-trained veteran has felta deep commitment to his nation and to those who served and continue to serve toensure freedom to all Americans.
“We have a responsibility, and although I am sure I have fallen short in manyways, I hope that my efforts have contributed and will continue to contribute insome ways,” he said.
Above all, the Field Cross serves as a private reminder for the veteran and proudAmerican. Each time Billingsley views the memorial, he can reflect on those with
whom he served and his goodfortune to have returned fromthe war.
“I am able to live a goodand productive life as a freeAmerican, am married to awonderful, Christian womanand have helped raise twowonderful daughters,” he said.“I am now blessed to watch myamazing grandchildren growup while living in a bucolicrural community in beautifulCentral Virginia. So many oth-ers were not availed of thoseopportunities by the realities ofwar.”
In addition to a reminder offallen soldiers, the Field Crossmemorial can allow Billingsleysome personal closure fromthe war. But, he emphasizedthat those soldiers are never tobe forgotten.
“All Americans need torespect and thank those whoserve or have served in ourArmed Forces,” he said.“Remember that freedom isnot free.”
Flags above the memorial recognize the nation, Virginia and the POW-MIA. All phots by Pat Wilson.
A side view of the bronze sculpture emphasizesthe term battlefield cross.
Chorus from page 3
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 7
Pat Barfield helps set up chairs. All Photos by Linda Salisbury.
Jim Lyon enjoys playing the piano while Jenith Hodge listens.
words are not understood, for example.Everyone, from co-directors to cho-
rus members volunteer their time, saidBarfield.
Barfield and Carroll said that it isamazing how the programs cometogether even when weather causes thecancellation of rehearsals, or memberscan’t make a given night because of ill-ness or travel.
Concerts are free, but donationshave benefited various communitygroups. These November concerts willprovide funding primarily to musicscholarships. This past school year,Courtney Collins, who sang with the
chorus for a season, and ElizabethGrandstaff, were each awarded $1,000.
Rehearsals are at 6:45 p.m. onMonday at the Louisa United MethodistChurch. There are no auditions. Carrollsaid, “Music which singers wish toreturn to the chorus might be used in avariety of ways, including future chorusconcerts, other singing engagements,or anthems can be made available onloan to church choirs who might wish tosing a particular number.”
For information about joining thechorus, donating, or singing, call(540) 967-1076 or (540) 894-4614
To Advertise call: 434-207-0223 • Email: [email protected] • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
A
Info at LouisaArts.org540.967.5200
Buy 5 Shows - $ave 20%
PINKALICIOUSCan’t stop eating
pink cupcakes.Enjoyable family
musical.November 15
2 pm
RAYVON OWENRichmond native
who made it to #4 on American Idol
2015.November 21
7:30 pm
JOHN CONLEEWith over twenty #1
country hits!--Second Show Added--
November 74pm & 8 pm
2015-16 SEASON
Haunted TrailOctober16–October 31,2015 @ 7:00 pm –10:00 pm
Betty Queen Center522 Industrial DriveLouisa County Parks, Recreation & Tourism: 540-967-4420A Haunted Trail through the woods. Co-sponsored by
Louisa CART and LCPRT. Recommended for 12 years andolder. Volunteers are needed. Check back soon for all of thespooky details!
Ghosts & GobletsOctober 31, 2015 all-dayWhere:Area Wineries Cost: $20Contact: Heart of Virginia Wine
Trail: 804-550-7516Join Cooper, Grayhaven, James
River Cellars, Lake Anna, WestonFarms, and Mattaponi for a one daywine festival on the grounds of
Weston Farm. Taste wines from 6 Wineries, listen to livemusic, visit with craft vendors and check out our food truckvendors. Time: Noon – 5pm. Tickets: $20.00/person inadvance; $25 at the gate day of event. [Advance ticket salesclose Friday, Oct 30th @noon]
November EventsClassic Book BingoNovember 3, 2015 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pmWhere:Louisa County Library818 Davis Highway, MineralContact:Louisa County Library540.894.5853Enjoy a night of Bingo with the whole family. We will rem-
inisce using the most popular classic books. All Ages. No reg-istration required.
Quarters AuctionNovember 6, 2015@ 6:00 pm – 8:30
pmBetty Queen Center522 Industrial Drive,
Louisa$1 admissionContact:Louisa Parks and Recreation540-967-4420What happens when
more than 100 people gather for an evening of shopping,snacks, laughter and networking? A new fun way to win greatstuff for mere quarters! Helping to raise money for our com-munity is just a side benefit of this fun night out. The excite-ment happens on Friday, March 20th from 6 p.m. until 8:30p.m. at the Betty Queen Center. Come early, space is limited.
Earlyhouse Annual Charity Chili Cook-OffNovember 7, 2015 all-dayEarlyhouse3998 Yanceyville Road, LouisaContact: 540-967-183211th Annual Central Virginia Charity Chili Cook-OffEntertainment
Chili Contest
Silent AuctionFood and Fun for the Whole Family!
Harvest Wine TrailNovember 7, 2015 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pmNovember 8, 2015 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pmArea VineyeardsCost:$20Contact:Heart of Virginia Wine TrailCooper Vineyards Farms & Vineyards Grayhaven Winery
Lake Anna Winery Weston Farm VineyardHOV Wine Trail November 7, 8 (11:00 to 5:00) Buy a pass-
port ticket for only $20.00 and you get a souvenir wineglass,wine tasting at the SIX Heart of Virginia Wineries: Lake Anna,James River, Cooper, Grayhaven, Weston Farms, andMattaponi Wineries. During our special wine trail weekendsyou will get to graze on munchies at each winery.
More Information: (540) 895-5085
Hospice of theRapadianSave the Date:November 7, for theSharing the Journey Galaand join other supporters ofhospice care in helping
Hospice of the Piedmont continue its commitment to provid-ing compassionate, comprehensive, and expert care to meetthe unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of eachdying patient and those who love them. Proceeds to benefitHospice of the Piedmont's Rapidan Fund.
For more information about Hospice of the Piedmont'sSharing the Journey Gala, to purchase event tickets ($100each) or raffle tickets ($25 each), or to become a sponsor,contact our office at 540-825-4840, email [email protected], or visit our website www.hopva.org/gala.
Hearth Cooking: Eating High on the Hog inColonial Virginia
Saturday, November 14th 10-4 Fall was the season of fresh pork, a cellar filled with root
crops and time to prepare some special sweets for a familymeal. Learn to prepare period recipes with traditional hearthcooking methods. Enjoy eating the entire meal prepared in thehistoric Michie House under the instruction of The HearthCooking Guild from the Louisa County Historical Society. Aprior class in basic hearth cooking helpful but not required.Age 17 & up. $25 Class at the Heritage Farm. Register throughParks and Rec at 540-967-4420.
PINKALICIOUS (Family) @ Louisa Arts CenterNov 15 @ 2:00 pmPinkalicious can’t stop eating pink
cupcakes. Her cravings turn her entirelypink with Pinkititis – a dream cometrue for a pink loving enthusiast. Whenher hue goes too far, Pinkalicious mustfigure out how to get out of the predica-ment in this enjoyable family musical.
$15 Adults / $8 Youth
Sugar Plum Bake Shop Christmas in the Country Open House,
Friday Nov. 27th and Sat. Nov. 28th, 9 am to4 pm.
Location: 1755 Pendleton Road, Mineral. All proceeds fromthe bakeshop will go towards the Gilboa Christian Church’srebuilding fund. Additional information call 540-894-5308.
Sugar PlumBAKE SHOP
Christmas Country Open HouseFri. Nov 27 & Sat. Nov 28
9 am – 4 pmWhere: the home
of John & Beverly Sims1755 Pendleton Road • Mineral Va.
Experience the magic of the Sugar PlumBake Shop that will be sponsored by
Gilboa Christian Church. All proceeds willgo towards the church’s Rebuilding Fund.Additional information: 540-894-5308
Beverly Sims & her 3-year-old great-grandson, Weston Smith.
Next Eventsand Announcemts
Deadline is
Email to: [email protected]
Wednesday November 18
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 9
Info at LouisaArts.org540.967.5200
Its 1941, America is going to war. So is Dennis Sanders of the Sanders Family Singers. Join Pastor Mervin
Oglethrope, as they send Dennis off wiht25 Southern Gospel Christmas favorites.
A Sander’s Family Christmas is entertaining, hilarious and at time touching.
LIVE THEATRE
December 4 at 7:30 pmDecember 5 at 2:00 & 7:30 pm
December 6 at 2:00 pm
December EventsChristmas Tree Lighting in the Town of
Louisa @ Louisa Courthouse LawnDec 4 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pmEnjoy musical performances, decorate your own orna-
ment, sing some carols, and watch as we flip the switch forthe lighting of the big Christmas tree on the lawn of theLouisa Courthouse.
FREE ADMISSION. For a $10 donation, you may endowa light on this year’s tree in someone’s memory or honor.These names will be read at the tree lighting ceremony. Oryou may become an ornament sponsor for a donation of$100 to $1,000.
Event and endowment information, call (540) 967-4420
The Right SpotCONSIGNMENT SHOP
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SaladGarden Fresh Salad
Dinner SelectionsOven Roasted Turkey, Pineapple Glazed Ham Steak or Fried Oysters
AccompanimentsMashed Potatoes & Gravy
Southern Green BeansDeviled Eggs
Cranberry SalsaPotato Salad
Hot Fresh Rolls
Candied YamsOnly $21.95Desserts:
Pumpkin Pie $4.95 • Pecan Pie $4.95
Available November 26, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thanksgiving Dinner
10 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
New beginnings at Artemis Equestrain CenterBy Linda Salisbury
Correspondent
orses, like people, may needsecond chances, and newbeginnings, and that’s
what’s happening the recently openedArtemis Equestrian Center onYanceyville Road.
Named for the Greek god Artemis (ahunter) the location is a new beginningfor owners Tasha Kessler and NinaLieberman. They moved 13 horses, fivedogs, five cats and themselves from theHudson River Valley of New York Statewhere Lieberman had owned an eques-trian center called Whisper Wind farm.The time was right for a change in theirlives, and location after yet anotherNew York winter. Plus Lieberman’sdaughter Camille, had just graduatedfrom high school, and hasn’t enrolled incollege yet as she considers a career inlaw enforcement or the military.
Kessler and Lieberman had searchedfor southern locations and found thisone (formerly Calfpasture Farm) with ahorse barn and large covered arena forevents so they could board horses, ride,give lessons and train year-round.
Lieberman, the barn manager, hasbeen riding since she was 10 and givinglessons since she was 13. She has alsotaught grammar school. “Teaching isteaching,” she said, with an infectioussmile.
“She makes you feel comfortable,”said Kessler, even if you are learningsomething new.
She has shared her enthusiasm forriding and training, and rehabbing res-cued horses with Camille, who ownsand trains two horses that were on theirway to the slaughterhouse by way ofthe Camelot auction house. Camille’sfirst pick was a small mustang marethat had been in rodeos, according toCamille’s research, and was considereddangerous. The poor horse was fright-ened and virtually unrideable, butCamille gave Quest a second chance.The name, as well as other horsesrecently acquired, ties in with theCamelot name. Camille’s patience anddevotion paid off. The horse was smartand teachable. Two years later, Camilleand Quest took first place in theNational Professional Horsemen’s com-petition in the lower jumper competi-tion. Lieberman said two horses fromher Whisper Wind farm were in thefinals in that event, against extremelystiff competition from larger horseswith no bad times in their backgrounds.Quest is very accomplished, saidLieberman. She has competed in 26club nationals in major shows, jumps,
does dressage and enjoys the fox-hunt-ing events. She added that 10-year-oldQuest seems to wake up everydaygrateful for life.
With her prize money of $350,Camille wanted to buy another horseheaded for slaughter. Amazingly, hisprice was $350, so the starving, skeletalcreature she named Tempe (the perfectstorm) was her next rescue. This timethey did no background check.Lieberman said that rescue horses oftenhave physical problems, and have lots
of baggage. She said she’d rather knownothing and be pleasantly surprisedabout what the horse can do with dailygentle care, food, water, fresh hay.
Kessler has had less of a backgroundwith horses. She has spent 19 yearsworking for a high-end retail packingcompany, and can now work fromhome for this company, which gave herthe freedom to move to Virginia. Herinvolvement with horses began threeyears ago when she bought a “backyardhorse, Guenevere. Kessler admits she
didn’t know much about working witha horse and “the horse knew that,” get-ting away with everything she could.That’s when she connected withLieberman.
Riding gives her a chance to getaway from job tensions, she said. Shedoesn’t answer emails or carry a cellphone while astride. Riding is an oppor-tunity to totally relax.
Lieberman watched Camille andQuest demonstrate their jumping skillsone September day. Camille had triedout a new bit and reported that itseemed to give her more control.
Lieberman said, “Mustang mares arevery opinionated. You need to use theright equipment to control them without offending them.” The jumping com-petition events involve high speed andaccuracy, and tight turns, she added.This former abused rodeo horse hasproven she’s a national champion.
Camille has overcome her ownhealth challenge during this period ofbecoming a champion rider and train-ing a champion horse. At 16, she wasdiagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a diseasemore commonly found in small chil-dren. And after a year of treatments,she is off the live saving medications.When her doctor at ColumbiaPresbyterian’s center asked what sheenjoyed doing, her mother replied thatshe rode. The doctor asked how manyhorses a day, and Lieberman repliedtwo or three. Instead of restrictingCamille’s activities, the doctor told her
H
Tasha Kessler, Nina and Camille Lieberman. Photo by Linda Salisbury.Tasha Kessler with Guenevere.
Camille Lieberman rescues the skeletal Tempe from the slaughterhouse. Photo contributed.
to ride even more to stay active and fight the disease. Second chances. New begin-nings for the rider as well as the horse.
Lieberman emphasized that the center is open for business looking for studentsand boarder, or horses in need of training. And just like in snowy New York, thecenter will likely offer classes for parents who want to see what their kids are learn-ing. There will likely be outreach for the disabled. Horses can be boarded, and ortrained, and in time, there may be horse shows at the facility.
It’s a new beginning, and a promising one for all involved. For more informa-tion call (845) 381-3082 or (845) 699-1416 or check out Artemis EquestrianCenter on Facebook.
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 11
Tasha Kessler, Nina and Camille Lieberman. Photos by Linda Salisbury.
Nina Lieberman with Felix, one of the center’s friendly cats.
Quest easily clearing low hurdles in the covered arena. Crossword Answers page 15
12 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
or Joan Wilson, lastmonth’s UCI world champi-onship road races in
Richmond rekindled memories, but notthe desire to return to professionalcycling, a sport that dominated much ofher life for over a decade, beginning inthe mid-1990s.
The Louisa County High School 1986class valedictorian did her undergradu-ate studies at the College of Williamand Mary. A cross country and distancetrack runner, Wilson continued compet-ing on the college level, admitting thatthough she was rarely a stand-out,Wilson enjoyed the opportunities tooccasionally make scoring contribu-tions to the team.
After earning a Bachelor of Sciencedegree in biology and awarded highesthonors for her senior-year researchproject, Wilson’s professors urged herto apply for a National ScienceFoundation pre-doctorate fellowship.
“I received one and was accepted atStanford [University] which was myfirst choice,” she said. “Then the reallyhard work began. It took me almost sixyears to earn my PhD in biological sci-ences.”
Wilson left for the Palo Alto campusin 1990, and eventually settled into anearby house shared with three othergraduate school students. When one ofher housemates attended a departmen-tal retreat in Los Angeles, Wilson bor-rowed a road bike and decided to spendfour days cycling southward along thePacific Coast Highway. She knew she’dhave a ride home.
“I had been riding an old mountainbike to work each day, but only for acouple miles each way and not the 450miles to LA,” she said. “It was beautifulscenery, and I even stayed one nightwith a classmate who was studying atthe Hopkins Marine Station inMonterey, a satellite campus, andanother with the aunt of one of myhousemates. I had a credit card andhotel reservations for the other nights.”
The trek was a catalyst for Wilson topurchase her own road bike, and tobegin riding in the San Francisco Bayarea, an alternate to running for exer-cise. She soon met other cyclists, whoinvited her to join their scheduled grouprides. Some were retired professionalracers and a few were from Stanford’scycling team.
“On a Wednesday noon ride, I evenbeat one of the men on the Stanford Ateam up a steep hill,” she said. “Theyurged me to start competing in localraces, but I’d had enough of competing
in sports.”Soon afterward, Stanford team
coach Art Walker and a few other team-mates turned up for one of Wilson’sregular morning ride. At his urging,Wilson joined the school’s team, and, in1995, her first season, she won theWomen’s United States IndividualCollegiate Omnium NationalChampionship. The following year shereturned to capture the regional title,but a conflict prevented her fromattending the national championships.Her priority had already progressed toracing on the US National Road RacingCircuit competing against the topwomen riders in the country. After thecollegiate win, Wilson had upgradedher bike to a lighter, carbon-fiber onewith high-end shifters. She called it her“Porsche,” versus the “Toyota” onwhich she previously had raced.
“I was still a full-time graduate stu-dent, so most of my road racing was onthe weekends,” she said. “I had somegood finishes against true profession-als.”
This attracted the attention of HennyTop, and retired Dutch cyclist and, atthat time, the coach of the US NationalTeam. Wilson received the phone callwhile back in the lab.
“She wanted me to join the team fora two-week long women’s stage race insouthern France,” said Wilson. “Youdon’t say ‘No’ to the national coach,even though I worried that I didn’t haveenough racing experience.”
Her lab supervisor was supportive,so Wilson took vacation time and flewto France with her bike, all expensespaid.
“The level of competition in Europeat that time was so much higher andthe fields so much larger than I wasused to,” she said. “At first, the coachwas watching just to see how I woulddo, and the experienced girls were a bighelp in making me feel comfortable inthe large pelotons [groups].”
Wilson was intimidated by the nar-row roads, the climbs through thePyrenees and the requirement to meeta time cut or be eliminated. She sur-vived, although she recalled the 10-daycompetition, the Tour de’Aude, as a“welcome to the big time as well as atrial by fire.”
Her role soon became that of aclimbing domestique, or helper, whoseresponsibility is to provide draft on hillsfor the team’s best overall rider so as toease that cyclist’s exertion and allowher to be fresher for the finishing sprint.
From Cyclist to ScientistBy Pat Wilson
Correspondent
F
While competing on professional teams such as Office Depot, Joan Wilson raced ina Hewlett-Packard sponsored criterium in Boise, Idaho in 1998.
All photos contributed.
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After assisting a climb, Wilson was leftto finish as best she could. Proving valu-able to the six women team and with aremarkable 17th place finish, Wilsonwas asked to remain in Europe for asecond five-stage race throughGermany, after only a week’s break.She claimed the ninth finish overall inthat 1997 race. Wilson noted that thepopularity of the competitions inEurope drew large crowds of spectatorsand star-status to the cyclists.
Back in the lab, Wilson had anothercall from Top the next season, this timean invitation to race, the Tour Feminim,the women’s race comparable to themen’s Tour de France. That year andthe next, she would compete with theUS National Team in the prestigiousstage race that circuited around Francethrough small villages, larger cities andthe mountainous terrain of the Alps andthe Pyrenees. One stage finished downthe Champs de Elysees in Paris. Otherraces for the team involved travel toSwitzerland, Italy, Mexico and Australia.During that time, Wilson also raced inthe United States for corporate teams,such as Office Depot and CelestialSeasonings, when not on the interna-tional circuit.
Joan Wilson captured the 1995 Collegiate National Women’s OmniumChampionship while cycling for Stanford University.
As a US National Team cyclist, JoanWilson sprints for a podium finish in astage race through Germany in 1997.
Photo by Casey Gibson
See Cyclist Page 14
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 13
14 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015
Cyclist from page 13
All events are free and open to the public
ALL AGESTuesday, November 3 @ 6pmClassic Book BingoEnjoy a night of Bingo with the whole family. We will reminisce using the most
popular classic books. All ages. No registration required.
Friday, November 13 @ 6pmPoetry, Prose & Pizza Open Mic NightJoin the library and well-known poet Nathan Richardson for a night of freedom,
poetry, music, fun, spoken word and more. Bring original artwork to be hung aroundthe room. No registration required.
ADULTSWednesdays @ 2pmB.Y.O.C. – Bring Your Own CraftDo you knit, bead, make rugs, hand stitch or do any kind of handcraft? Come to
share ideas, show off your work and get another crafter's eye and perception. Chatand meet your neighbors while you work on your craft. Bring any project you'reworking on, or come just to be inspired. All ages and levels of experience welcome.Call or visit the library for details. Meets every Wednesday.
Tuesday, November 17 @ 1pmUsing Government Benefits to Your BenefitAttorney Gelbman will explain MediCARE, MediCAID as well as veteran's bene-
fits and other programs you may benefit from. You've been paying taxes all theseyears. Find out how to get your money's worth. No registration required.
Tuesday, November 24 @ 7pmTuesday Evening Book Discussion Group"The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry" by Gabrielle ZevinOn the faded Island Books sign hanging over the porch of the
Victorian cottage is the motto "No Man Is an Island; Every BookIs a World." A. J. Fikry, the irascible owner, is about to discoverjust what that truly means.
TEENSMonday, November 9 @ 4pmTeen Advisory Board (TAB)Love your library and want to help? Join one of the Teen Advisory Boards at JMRL
and work on projects or help plan programs as a group. Meet other teens, enjoysnacks, and earn volunteer credit for your participation.
Tuesday, November 10 @ 4pmMakerSpace for the Tween SceneTweens are invited to sign up for a fun lesson in making stuff, from baskets to
circuits, we'll be making something different each month. Stop by the library to seenext month's project. Grades 4-8. Registration recommended but not required.
KIDSThursdays @ 10:30amPreschool Read & Rhyme TimeA fun program highlighting early literacy skills. Enjoy short books, rhymes, finger
plays, a flannel story, and song and movement, using shakers, scarves, and rhythminstruments. For ages 2-5 with an accompanying adult or caregiver. Siblings wel-come.
Saturday, November 14 @ 1pmFall Family MovieWatching: “Night in the Museum.” Free drinks and popcorn
will be provided. All ages welcome.
Saturday, November 21 @ 2pmNative American DayCome experience stories and customs of the American Indian.
We will have a special speaker.
“Fortunately, I had a privately-financed,three-year post-doctorate fellowship duringthose years and my advisor, Peter Sarnow,was very supportive and the grant providerswere willing to consider the periods of timeI was in Europe as leaves of absence, andmerely extend the tenure of my fellowship,”she said. “I was studying aspects of theinfectivity of a virus related to polio – it wasfascinating and exciting work.”
Wilson admits she “retired” from thesport on several occasions. The pressure oftime needed in the lab for post-doctoratework and weariness from training, bothmental and physical, led to those decisions.But, in 2000, upon completion of her post-doctoral fellowship, she decided that the“cycling bug” wasn’t over. She’d spend the next three years cycling professionallyfor trade teams such as Talgo and TDS. These competitions took her to places suchas Montreal, Boston, Nashville, Philadelphia, across the state of Idaho and evenRichmond, for the 2003 Captech Classic. Perks included two weeks training inMajorca, Spain and visits to Boulder, Colorado.
“Most of the time I raced in the US, but I did another Tour Feminim and Girod’Italia,” she said.
A slippery road crash in Italy in 2004 resulting in a punctured lung, a broken col-larbone and multiple broken ribs, along with a short stay in a Tuscany hospital, con-
vinced Wilson that working full-time in the biotechnicalworld was a safer and more lucrative occupation. Aftera one-year fellowship at Harvard Institute ofProteomics, Wilson returned to the San Francisco Bayarea and today works as a senior staff scientist atPacific Biosciences, a Menlo Park corporation thatdevelops instruments for whole genome sequencings.
At least once a year, Wilson returns to her LouisaCounty roots, but, despite California’s traffic conges-tion, she still enjoys the weather and lifestyle of the bayarea. If she doesn’t bring a bike, Wilson exercises byrunning along the familiar rural roads of her youth, butnotices that even here the traffic has increased.
“I am now strictly a recreational rider on my 15-year-old bike,” she said. “Some days, I even cycle the 11
miles to and from work, where I can keep changes of clothes and take showers. Thecompany supports alternates to driving. On weekends I’ll ride a couple hours in thesurrounding hills and even see some of the women I competed with over the years.”
Wilson can no longer rely on being handed a musette (bag with food), having amechanic in a chase car ready with spare wheels and tools, or depending on asoigneur to give massages, wash clothes or make hotel arrangements, but, she stillthinks cycling on her own has its advantages.
“At least, I now can go at my own pace,” she said.
Louisa Library November Events
Joan Wilson fulfills her role as a domestique by drafting for fellowStanford teammates during a 1995 time trial.
EVENTSMINERAL UNITED METHODIST WOMENholding Annual Bazaar on Saturday,November 14th, 2015 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. atMineral United Methodist Church, 301 W.Third Street, Mineral VA. 23117. Come shop forunique gifts.
SUGAR PLUM BAKE SHOP BENEFIT FORGilboa Christian Church, being held on FridayNovember 27th. and Saturday, November28th. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the home ofJohn and Beverly Sims, 1755 Pendleton Road,Mineral, Va. Join us for “Christmas in theCountry Open House”. All proceeds from thebake shop will go towards Gilboa ChristianChurch Rebuilding Fund. Need more informa-tion? (540) 894-5308
BREMO AUCTIONS SATURDAY GALLERYAUCTIONS on November 21st., Fine &Decorative Arts @ 320 Pantops Center,Charlottesville, VA. (*OnLine BiddingAvailable) liveauctioneers.com. See previewsstarting on Wednesday November 18th.Consignment Opportunities or Catalogs avail-able. Questions? (434) 293-1267 or [email protected]
MONTICELLO FIRE & RESCUE BINGO: $1,000Jackpot every Thursday. Doors Open at5:30pm, Early Bird 6:45pm. 10 Slice Road,Palmyra (Off Rt. 600, near CVS) Questions? Call 434-591-1018
HELP WANTEDOPTOMETRIC ASSISTANT:Optometric/Medical Office seeking Part-Timehelp, 20-30 hours. This is a busy, fast pacedoffice with primary duties of Chart Prep and
Scanning, assisting with the front desk andthe Tech, answering phones, and scheduling.Computer experience and office skills essen-tial. FAX Resume to: (434) 591-0111 or applywithin at the office of Drs. Douglas & VictoriaMolnar Weiss, 56 Centre Court, Palmyra, VA22963.
E.W. THOMAS, INC. is currently looking tohire a reliable, self-motivated person to workvarious shifts throughout the week. Interestedcandidates should be open to and expect towork wherever needed (produce, stockingshelves, bagging, etc.). The ability to poten-tially lift 40 lb. boxes is necessary. Please stopby and ask for an application! (434) 589-8412.
RENTAL PROPERTYAVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1st.: 1 Bedroom,1200 sq. ft. daylight basement apartment.Private Entrance. Open living room, eat-inkitchen area, full bath and large deck. Kitchenhas electric stove/oven/microwave, side-by-side refrigerator/freezer. Rent is $825 mo. andincludes Trash & Recycling, Water and Electric.Tenant is responsible for Cable/DSL, Gatesticker. References and credit check required.Non-smoker. 1 yr. lease. Security deposit of$825. Pet considered with $250 non-refund-able deposit. Parking for 1 vehicle. Call (434)906-2524
SERVICESVETERANS AND DEPENDENTS: Do yourknow your Veterans Benefits? We do! VirginiaDepartment of Veterans Services:www.Viginiaforveterans.com. Need Help?Visit us at Louisa County GovernmentBuilding, 1 Woolfolk Avenue. On 1st. and 3rd.Wednesdays of the month – from 1 p.m. to3:30- p.m. For an appointment, call Pam Zirkle,
VSR, at (434) 295-2782 or email:[email protected] [email protected]
DRIVEWAY STONE: SLATE: 9-Ton Crush Run,$150; 9-Ton #57, $220; 14-Tons #57, $300.; 14-Ton Crush, $200. GRANITE: 9-Ton Crush, $220;9-Ton #57, $255; 14-Ton Crush, $300; & 14-Ton#57, $350. Includes delivery and TailgateSpread. Call (434) 420-2002
MONTICELLO PAINTING: Interior & Exterior:Residential, Commercial, Industrial. 28 yearsexperience. Licensed and insured. CallCharles Langton (540) 254-0652 or (434) 321-1630. monticellopainting.com
LOHR’S PIANO SALES & SERVICE: Reliablerepair and tuning with 40 years experience.Also offering good used and new pianosprices reasonable. Phone (540) 672-5388,evenings, for all your piano needs.
GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST: Do you needa logo, brochure, flyer, postcards or newslet-ters? Custom art or designs – but either don’tknow how or don’t have the time? I can pro-vide you with quality graphic design and art-work quickly and affordable. Let me do thework for you so you can concentrate on yourbusiness. Call Lynn Stayton-Eurell@(434) 906-2524.Visit http://www.staytoneurellgraphics.net
DAVID ROWE’S TREE, YARD & HANDYMANSERVICE: Carpentry, painting, power wash-ing, gutter work, fencing, tree work, reseed-ing, fertilizing, mulching & more. Fully insured.Call for estimate 540-937-2144 or 540-522-1662.
FOR SALEBOOKS: make great gifts. Give LindaSalisbury’s “Bailey Fish Adventure” series forkids, and humor for grown-ups. Can be foundat many local gift outlets, online (plus Kindleand Nook), or from [email protected],(540) 895-9093, or www.lindasalisburyau-thor.com
CEMETERY SITES: Holly Memorial Gardensand Monticello Memory Gardens. Significantsavings. Call 434-295-1750.
WANTEDOLD COINS: I BUY OLD COINS. 434-466-7968
Draw Attention to your BusinessThe holidays are almost here
NEXT DEADLINE FORLOUISA LIFE
is November 18thCall Judi Price at 434-207-0223
Help Wanted
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT FORK UNION MILITARY ACADEMYThe Fork Union Military Academy is seeking various positions for the upcoming 2015-2016 school year. Benefits include a retirement plan, health,dental, life insurance and meals provided depending on the shift. The Academy is a Christian male boarding and day school that attracts studentsfrom more than 30 states and 15 foreign countries. The Academy offers our students a college preparatory curriculum in a military-style environment.
Certified Electrician Full Time This position requires diagnosing and repairing residential and commercial electrical problems and maintaining mechanical equipment such
as motors, pumps, and fans. Work orders will involve installing new wiring, lights, breakers, panel boxes and mechanical equipment. Must have a valid driver’s license and must be available for occasional on-call and weekend events.
Housekeeper Full TimeThe right candidate will be responsible for cleaning/dusting/maintaining hallways, public areas, stairways, furniture, equipment,
fixtures, closets, restrooms and will perform other tasks as assigned. Work Schedule: 6:00am-2:30pm.
Please contact the Human Resources Department for details (434) 842-4331.Located at 4744 James Madison Hwy. Fork Union, Virginia 23055
Kitchen Food Preparer/Cook – Salad Worker – AM Line Server– PM Line Server
Utility Worker – Dining Services Assistant – Cook – Dishwasher
Answers to theCrossword
Puzzle from page 11
October 30 – November 28, 2015 • LOUISA LIFE • 15
16 • LOUISA LIFE • October 30 – November 28, 2015