Pretty in the Panhandle

Wine Down Fridays at Clear Spring's Knob Hill Winery

2012-02-22T14:13:00.000-05:00

After a long week, what better way to unwind, than with a little live music and some tasty beverages. No one knows this better than the people at Knob Hall Winery of Clear Spring, MD-- every Friday from 7PM to 9PM, the winery offers a fun, family-friendly event known as"Wine Down Friday!"

Admission to the event is $6 and includes your first beverage, be it wine or something of the non-boozy variety. Local bands provide some tunes, while you sip your beverage and wine down for the weekend. Tasty treats are available for purchase as well, including a variety of local artisan cheeses.

This Friday's band is Frederick rock trio Lucy: for the full lineup for upcoming Wine Down Fridays can be found at http://www.knobhallwinery.com/events/events-at-knob-hall/wine-down-friday

What

Wine Down Friday

When

Fridays

7PM to 9PM

Where

Knob Hall Winery

14108 St. Paul Road
Clear Spring, MD 21722

Cost

(plus spending money)

Winter Getaway

2012-02-16T22:47:00.004-05:00

With the weather finally finding its way back to an appropriate temperature this winter it is finally time to get the snow gear out! Whether you are looking to hit the slopes or plan a spa getaway now is the time to do it! Spring is just around the corner. It would be a shame to miss out on the opportunity to take advantage of winter while it lasts! Listed below are places with wonderful facilities to take advantage of.

Canaan Valley Resort-Davis

Air boarding, Snowshoeing, Snow Tubing, Ice Skating, Skiing, Snowboarding

$$ 30+

Snowshoe Mountain Resort-Snowshoe

Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing

$$ 50+

Wisp Resort-McHenry

Ice Skating, Snowmobiling, Skiing, Snowboarding, NASCAR Racing, Snowshoeing

$$ 30+

Whitetail-Mercersburg

Snow Tubing, Skiing, Snowboarding

$$ 49+

Liberty Mountain Resort-Carroll Valley

Snow Tubing, Skiing, Snowboarding

$$ 46+

Massanutten-Harrisonburg

Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing, Ice Skating

$$ 34+

Ski Roundtop-Lewisberry

Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing

$$ 46+

Who is Now the Proud Owner of The Plum Necklace?

2012-02-14T14:57:00.007-05:00

Congratulations to Kat Turnbull for winning the lovely red crystal necklace from Plum!

In case you're curious, her Dream Valentine is Clark Gable (who is definitely a Pretty-approved choice).

Thank you so much to everyone who participated in this giveaway--I absolutely LOVED the responses to the Dream Valentine question.

Hope y'all are having a Fabulous V-Day!!!

xoxo,
Richele

Dine with the Stars at The Yellow Brick Bank to Benefit United Way of the Eastern Panhandle

2012-02-07T16:50:00.000-05:00

Join The Yellow Brick Bank of Shepherdstown, WV, Wednesday and Thursday for a special dining event to benefit the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle. Guests will be served by a bevy of local celebrities including the very lovely Miss West Virginia USA, Andrea Rogers.

The full dinner menu will be available as will the cocktail menu (mixed up by an extra special bartender). Server tips plus 15% of the revenue for each night will go directly to the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle. All you've got to do is eat, drink, and be served; all while supporting a great cause!

Reservations are not required, but are strongly encouraged: 304.876.2208

What

Dining with the Stars
Celebrity Server Dinner

When

5PM - 9PM

Wednesday, February 8

Thursday, February 9

Where

The Yellow Brick Bank

201 East German Street

Shepherdstown, WV 25443

Win Something Sparkly from Plum's S/S 2012 Collection--Perfect for Valentine's Day!

2012-02-02T11:40:00.004-05:00

I am super excited to announce that Pretty in the Panhandle is pairing up with Plum for a fabulous February giveaway!

Plum proprietor (and talented jewelry designer), Cari Rosen, has recently launched a new line of baubles as part of her Spring/Summer 2012 line. There are lots of gorgeous little things in her new collection including this lovely red crystal bar necklace that will be going to one very lucky Pretty in the Panhandle reader.

Entering is easy, and you can qualify for bonus entries as well. All you need to do is...

Tell us the truth: who is your dream Valentine?
(alive or dead, real or fictional)

For bonus entries you can do the following:

+1 Like Plum and Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook

+1 Follow Plum (@plumwv) and Pretty in the Panhandle (@richelecole) on Twitter

+1 Sign up for Plum's Newsletter

Leave a comment below with you name, email address, dream Valentine, and what you did for additional entries.

EXAMPLE:

Richele Cole

richele@prettyinthepanhandle.com

- My dream Valentine is Bond, James Bond

- Liked both on FB

- Followed both on Twitter

-Signed up for Plum's Newsletter

Contest ends at 11:59PM, Friday, February 10

Good Luck!!!

Rumsey Rock Porter Release Party at The Blue Moon--Celebrating Shepherdstown's New Brew

2012-01-31T17:12:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, January 24, Mountain State Brewing Company released Shepherdstown's very own brew: Rumsey Rock Porter. To celebrate the release of their newest concoction, guests were invited to The Blue Moon, in Shepherdstown, WV, to sample some of the brew while listening to the sounds of The Speakeasy Boys.

Paying homage to Shepherdstown native, leader in engineering innovation, and beer lover, James Rumsey, the Rumsey Rock Porter is a dark beer that is big on flavor, but not so big it weighs you down. You will find this to be a very drinkable brew, even if darker beers aren't normally your frosty beverage of choice. This drink is part of a series of exclusive Shepherdstown 250 drinks that you'll see popping up around town over the next several months.

Being greeted with a beverage is the best way to be welcomed to any party--it's even better when you get to keep the souvenir sampling glass and you discover that the "tastes" are actually bottomless pints. Pair those pints with a little pickin' and a lot of people, and you have one terrific way to top off a Tuesday.

To sample some Rumsey Rock Porter, be sure to visit The Blue Moon, located at the corner of Princess and High Street in Shepherdstown, WV.

Nina & Ed Arnett

(namers of the Rumsey Rock Porter)

Daniel King and Jason Martin

Laya Cunningham and Laura Bray

The Speakeasy Boys

For more pictures from The Rumsey Rock Porter Release Party, visit Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook www.facebook.com/prettyinthepanhandle

Road Trip: Mockingbird Artisan Fare and Root Music

2012-01-20T17:32:00.002-05:00

Food, music, passion--the folks at Mockingbird in Staunton, VA, know their business and excel at what they do, namely good tunes and tasty food.

Located less than two hours south of the Eastern Panhandle in historic Staunton, Virginia, Mockingbird makes for a perfect weekend away. The dining alone is worth the drive. You'll find a variety of reasonably priced samplings from burgers to beet risotto and everything in between. I highly recommend the beet risotto, though: beets, spinach, chevre, and it's PINK!

Now that you're drooling let's discuss why you really came to Staunton--the music. Mockingbird's calendar is consistently filled with great musical talent such as Clair Lynch, Larry Keel, and Ketch & Critter from Old Crow Medicine Show to name a few. Mockingbird is a very intimate space with limited seating (this is a good, no great, no awesome thing!), so act quickly to snag your tickets. When making your ticket purchases, you'll be asked if you want dinner reservations. You do. As if you weren't tempted by the menu already, your dining table will also be your seat for the show, so the faster you make dinner reservations, the better your placement to harass the banjo player.

Not that I'd ever do that... ;)

Mockingbird

123 West Beverly Street

Staunton, VA

540.213.8777

http://www.mockingbird123.com/

***While Staunton is close enough for a quick up and back jaunt, chances are you've had some beverages with your bluegrass and have no business going anywhere. I highly, highly, recommend booking a room at The Stonewall Jackson Hotel. Not only is it swanky, spotless, and reasonable, it's also only three blocks from Mockingbird. You may have to walk a few hills, but as long as you don't slip on some ice (oops), you should have no problems negotiating your way back to your super comfy hotel bed in one piece.***

Art of Calligraphy at Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

2012-01-19T16:20:00.004-05:00

When I was wee, I wanted nothing more than to learn to write in cursive--it was pretty and flowy, not boring like plain old print. That thrill was short-lived, though, as I moved upward in my studies, my handwriting took a drastic turn downward. Mere cursive seemed so commonplace, but calligraphy, now that was a penmanship sure to impress. I learned calligraphy in fourth grade, and to this day, I still put those skills to use. Calligraphy is perfect for penning place cards, thank you notes, or perhaps helping a dear friend with her wedding invites.

For those looking to pretty up their penmanship, The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, will be hosting an Art of Calligraphy Class on Saturday, February 4, from 10AM to Noon.

Learn the basics of calligraphy in this hands-on workshop for adults (ages 16+) led by professional calligrapher and handwriting advocate Lance Pearce. Lance will demonstrate the basic setups, materials, and instruments used in calligraphy and then participants will practice using various styles of alphabets. Lance will also discuss ways to use calligraphy in everyday tasks and provide a bibliography and list of resources so participants may continue their practice at home.

Cost for the class is $12 (or $10 if you're a MSV member). You must register by February 1, and spaces are very limited, so sign up (pun intended) today by calling 540.662.1473, extension 209 or emailing jtucker@shenandoahmuseum.org.

What

Art of Calligraphy

When

Saturday, February 4, 2012

10AM to Noon

Where

Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

901 Amherst Street

Winchester, VA 22601

Cost

$12

*Image courtesy of StudioArts.net

Posh Pets Boutique of Winchester

2012-01-12T10:33:00.001-05:00

McQueen, McCartney, Louboutin--canines love their couture, and wouldn't you rather they fetch a plush pump rather than chew on your favorite Choos? Posh Pets Boutique of Winchester, VA, has everything a pampered pups or fabulous feline could ever bark (or meow) for and more.

From frou frou frocks to top-tier pet food, Posh Pets has a great selection of things you need, want, or want to need. There are also plenty of "treats" for your less furry two-legged friends: you'll find plenty of gifts for the pet-lover on your list and probably several things for your own wishlist.
In addition to offering a wide array of toys, accessories, treats, and every day eats, Posh Pets also offers the following services:

- Pet Grooming: right now your pooch must be under 30lbs, but don't fret, they'll be ready to big dogs soon!

- Pet Photography: the official Posh Photog can either do home sittings or their's a small studio in their upstairs loft. Various pacakages will be offered for pups and budgets of all sizes.

-Pet Parties!!!: Starting this month, Posh Pets is offering themed party packages, so you can help your pup celebrate in stlye--think birthdays, obedience school graduation, or maybe just a girl's night out ;)

Posh Pets (and their people) also love to party, so be sure to "Like" them on Facebook and keep your nose to the ground for upcoming events--like their February Fashion Show on February 3 and their 1st Annual Masquerade Ball & Silent Auction on March 3--that are sure to be a tail-waggin' good time.

Posh Pet's Boutique

16 S. Loudon Street

Winchester, VA 22601

540.722.7213

LIVE La Vida LOCAL in 2012

2012-01-05T17:42:00.001-05:00

Dear Readers,

As we launch ourselves into 2012 with promises to be fitter, happier, more productive,* I challenge you to look at the Panhandle as more than just a mailing address, but as your home.

Although I grew up here, when I moved back to WV from DC in 2009, I realized that I knew nothing about the area. Pretty in the Panhandle started as an outlet for me to discover what my new home had to offer, but I never dreamed that almost two years later, I would still be discovering new places, meeting new people, and sharing experiences that could only happen here. With each new blog post, I've come to realize that I couldn't imagine living anywhere else.

I write this blog because I love this area, and I want others to see the potential that lies within the Panhandle. If you're reading this, chances are I'm preaching to the choir. A community is only as strong as the people who live there and choose to invest themselves in making it a great place to live. So as we go into 2012, I ask you, your family, and your friends to make the effort and invest in the Eastern Panhandle--here's what you can do to start:

Eat LOCAL Foods: From produce to meat to dairy, we have an abundance of locally sourced foods right at our fingertips. My friends from other cities and states are amazed at how easy it is for me to acquire everything from goat cheeses to Wagyu beef to arugula all from farms less than 30 miles from my back door.

If cooking isn't your thing, I beg of you: please, pretty please, make the effort to dine at an independently owned eatery (bonus points if they serve local food). So help me, if I have to read one more "best of" list that includes major chain restaurants...

Shop at Small LOCAL Businesses: Sure, there are some things you can't buy locally, but how often do you even try? Next time you need to make a purchase, hold off on running to a big box store for a quick fix. Do some research, ask around, EMAIL ME--at least try and find whatever it is you're looking for locally instead of being quite so lazy.

Explore the LOCAL Music and Arts Scene: If I had one dollar for ever time I heard the phrase "there's just nothing to do around here," I could quit my day-job and spend my time blogging. I don't know what people are looking for, but most of the time I find myself torn choosing which events to cover, because they all sound amazing! Some of my favorite musical performances have been in the Eastern Panhandle, not to mention the abundance of art shows and theatre productions throughout the year.

Support LOCAL Charities: I'm not saying to not support other causes, I'm simply stating that there is a of need in the Eastern Panhandle, and that we need to take care of our own, be they the sick, the elderly, the young, or the furry. Supporting a charity can happen on many levels, so before you dismiss this point, take a minute and think about what you can do to help. Have time? Volunteer. Have Money? Donate. Or maybe you just want to have fun? Attend a fundraiser! Supporting a good cause can be as simple as sipping a cocktail, and besides, you were bored, weren't you?

*Thanks Radiohead

Ringing in the New Year in the Eastern Panhandle

2011-12-28T23:28:00.010-05:00

With only three days left 'til New Years Eve many of you may be excited to be leaving the holidays behind and moving onto a fresh start. It is that time of year again to begin coming up with New Years Resolutions as well as letting loose for a night. For those of you who are scrambling to find something Fabulous to do this New Years Eve and have been having trouble here are some wonderful events around our Panhandle!

Opera House-Shepherdstown

$15 a Ticket

Ring in the New Year with The Hillbilly Gypsies and The Speakeasy Boys

Bavarian Inn - Shepherdstown

$95 Per Person
Dinner, Dancing, Party Favors, Champagne Toast, and Breakfast Buffet

Clarion - Shepherdstown

$45 Per Person

Cazhmiere, Cashbar, and Balloon Drop

McFarland House-Martinsburg

$100 per person

Dinner, Ballroom dancing, Desert, Live entertainment

Sokel MakeUp & Skin Care - Charlestown

$13-25 for Mehndi, $25 for Makeup Application

Make Up & Mehndi (the art of painting henna on the body) for your New Year's Eve party.

From 3:00-6:00

Ashby Inn - Paris

$110 Per Person

10-Course Dinner and Complimentary Champagne Toast at Midnight

First Night Winchester - Winchester

$10 Per Person

"Safest, Healthiest, Most Affordable, and Entertaining"

Alamo Drafthouse - Winchester

$10 Per Person

Sing along, champagne toast at midnight (or cider for the kids), confetti, party hats

Sweet Caroline's - Winchester

Make Reservation

Ring in the New Year with the band Souled Out

Hollow Creek Golf Club - Middletown

$64 Per Person, $120 Per Couple

Open Bar, Band, DJ, Champagne Toast, and Continental Breakfast at Midnight

Seven Ten - Hagerstown

$65 Per Person, $200 Family Pack

Bowl in the New Year, all you can eat Buffet

Winner of the Loggerhead Apparel Giveaway Is...

2011-12-21T09:35:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Alex Lemley for winning the very first Pretty in the Panhandle giveaway--a Loggerhead Apparel Bellwether Polo!

Thanks to everyone who participated, and I hope to be giving away more Pretty Presents in the future :)

If you are intrested in teaming up with Pretty in the Panhandle to give away a Pretty Present email richele@prettyinthepanhandle.com

The winner of this contest was selected randomly using the number generator at Random.org

Here's My Local Wish List, Santa Baby, Shop Local and Support Small Merchants Too, Would You?

2011-12-16T10:02:00.004-05:00

As I was putting the finishing touches on my Christmas spreadsheet (Word docs are for amateurs), I realized that more than half of the items on my list are things I've spotted locally. So why I am sharing my list with you, dear readers? Surely your favorite blogger is on your shopping list, right? Just kidding, just kidding. I'm writing this post, because all of these items would make great presents for any lady on your list (hint, hint). This is also a perfect guide for last minute shoppers, since these gifts can be found in the Panhandle and will spare your sanity a trip to Tysons Corner.

For those of you not lucky enough to live locally, some of these stores offer online shopping and are linked accordingly.

Globe Bike, Eastern Panhandle Bicycles

301 Winchester Ave., Martinsburg

Amethyst Necklace, Christian Caine

99 Maddex Square Dr., Shepherdstown

Wise Owl Pocket Watch Necklace, The Vintage Lady
180 High St., Harpers Ferry

Wrap Bracelets, Plum

108 E. German St., Shepherdstown

Resolution Bracelet, Harper Street Jewelry

(she's a local gal with an Etsy store)

Vintage Chanel Bag, reFINEments

125 W. German St., Shepherdstown

(a girl can dream)

Fuchsia Rock & Republic Jeans, Vault Denim by Caroline

Recycled Cotton Throw, Good Natured

209 S. Raleigh St., Martinsburg

Pink Flamingos, Retrodini

81 N. Washington St., Berkeley Springs

Collapsible Hoop, Boomtown Hoops

Second Annual CASA Holiday Tea and Purse Auction

2011-12-13T16:53:00.005-05:00

Sunday, December 4, CASA* of the Eastern Panhandle hosted their second annual Holiday Tea and Purse Auction in Shepherdstown, WV, at The Bavarian Inn.

Chanel, Kate Spade, and Coach were just a few of the luxury labels to be snagged during the silent auction segment of the afternoon. Bidders sipped bubbly (and loosened their budgets) while perusing the purses and enjoying a sampling of savory and sweet treats provided by The Bavarian. In addition to the bags available through the silent auction, guests were given the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win a cross-body Coach Bag (talk about a steal). There were also several bags up for live auction, including special donations by West Virginia First Lady Joanne Tomblin, Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, and Shepherd University President Suzanne Shipley.

As part of the program, those involved with CASA shared stories of the lives they've touched--often saved--through the services provided by CASA. And while the success stories were moving, the real motivation was
knowing that something as simple as buying a handbag, could help change the life of a child.

It costs approximately $1,300 just to train one CASA volunteer. This event raised over $13,000--that's enough money to give 10 people the opportunity to go out in our community and make an impact, right here in the Eastern Panhandle!

Cathy Ferro, Christine Foster, Kim Cicchino, & Rebecca Carper

Josephine Vesly & Aija Rabinowitz

Bunny Greer & Ashley Musselwhite

For more pictures from the CASA Holiday Tea and Purse Auction visit Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook at www.facebook.com/prettyinthepanhandle

*What is CASA? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. After a rigorous training program, CASA volunteers are appointed to investigate cases when children have been removed from their homes because of abuse and/or neglect. CASA is a nationwide program, and there are ten CASA organizations in West Virginia. CASA of the Eastern Panhandle(CASA-EP) was established in 2003. Since then, CASA-EP has trained over 95volunteers and advocated for nearly 400 children in Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan Counties. Our long-term goal is to increase our base of active volunteers so we can serve all of the children in the Eastern Panhandle who are removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect and need our help.

Loggerhead Apparel Bellwether Polo Giveaway!

2011-12-09T09:39:00.001-05:00

Today begins the first, of what I hope will be many, Pretty in the Panhandle reader giveaways aka Pretty Presents! In the spirit of giving, Loggerhead Apparel, will be sending one lucky lady (or gent) one of their signature Bellwether Polos (retail $68).

To enter to win, here's what you need to do:

1. "Like" both Pretty in the Panhandle and Loggerhead Apparel on Facebook (mandatory for entry)
2. Follow @LoggerheadApp on Twitter (bonus entry)
3. Join the Flotilla! -- sign up for the Loggerhead Apparel newsletter (bonus entry)

For your entry to be official you MUST leave a comment below with your name, email, and what you've done to enter.

The contest will end Friday, December 16 at 11:59PM EST and the winner will be randomly selected and notified via email.

And, if you don't want to wait around to see if you won, Loggerhead Apparel is offering free shipping on all products (even koozies and croakies) through Christmas!

Road Trip: Lilly Pulitzer Warehouse Sale

2011-12-06T14:35:00.003-05:00

Twice a year Lilly Pulitzer holds a warehouse sale near their home base in King of Prussia, PA. With drastic discounts rarely found elsewhere in the land of Lilly, many shoppers trek great distances to fill up their pink shopping carts and stock up for resort season--it's like a Pink Pilgrimage. We really should count ourselves lucky that we are a mere 3.5 hours away. Seven hours in the car with your shopping buddies for saving up to 70%?! I suggest you start feigning ill and call in sick this Friday.

The sale beings Friday at 7AM and wraps up Saturday at 4PM and will be held at The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA. When I've shopped these sales in the past, I have not been one of the first shoppers through the door, nor did I have to fight anyone for one of my favorite prints. There is PLENTY of inventory for ladies, gents and kiddos, so don't feel like you need to be there the second the doors open.

While the sale usually isn't too crazy, here are a few tips to make sure your shopping trip is as happy as the prints you're purchasing.

Set a Budget

Stick to Your Budget

Wear something that you can easily try things on over. There are allegedly changing rooms, but I've never braved them. I recommend leggings and layers with a camisole as the base. That way you can strip down and get back to shopping before someone steals that snazzy shift dress you were eyeing.

If you're shopping for other people (especially kiddos), make a list with their sizes, so you don't have to keep calling/texting family members to track down info. This will just distract you from your shopping, and we certainly don't want that.

HAVE FUN and GOOD LUCK!

What

Lilly Pulitzer Holiday & Resort Warehouse Sale

When

December 9
7AM to 8PM

December 10
8AM to 4PM

Where

Greater Philadelphia Exop Center

100 Station Avenue

Oaks, PA 19456

Cost

Well now that depends...

Important Details After the Break!

Join CASA This Sunday for a Holiday Tea and Purse Auction at The Bavarian Inn

2011-12-02T13:05:00.002-05:00

'Tis the season for giving and getting, so what could be more perfect than giving to a good cause and getting something (in addition to that warm fuzzy feeling) in return?

Sunday afternoon, CASA* will be holding a Holiday Tea and Purse Auction at The Bavarian Inn, in Shepherdstown, WV. The event will feature a variety of authentic designer handbags as well as a raffle for a Coach bag. Purses make quite perfect Christmas presents or perhaps you need to treat yourself to a little holiday treat.

Tickets are still available, but very limited, so snag yours now by calling 304.263.5100 or emailing lisa@casaep.org

What

Holiday Tea and Purse Party

When

December 4, 2011

3:30PM - 5:30PM

Where

The Bavarian Inn

164 Shepherd Grade Road

Shepherdstown, WV

Cost

$35

(plus spending/donation money)

*What is CASA? CASA stands for CourtAppointed Special Advocate. After a rigorous training program, CASA volunteers are appointed to investigate cases when children have been removed from their homes because of abuse and/or neglect. CASA is a nationwide program, and there are ten CASA organizations in West Virginia. CASA of the Eastern Panhandle(CASA-EP) was established in 2003. Since then, CASA-EP has trained over 95volunteers and advocated for nearly 400 children in Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan Counties. Our long-term goal is to increase our base of active volunteers so we can serve all of the children in the Eastern Panhandle who are removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect and need our help.

Loggerhead Apparel--Preppy with a Purpose

2011-11-30T12:05:00.002-05:00

Whenever I go shopping, I try to ensure my purchase(s) meet at least one of the following criteria: it's local, from a small business, and/or is made in the US of A. Fortunately, there are lots of pretty things to be bought in the Panhandle region; however, there are still some things that cannot be found at our local brick and mortars (yet).

That being said, I'd like to share my latest online find, Loggerhead Apparel, which meets those last two requirements and then some. Launched in 2009 by a couple of South Carolina natives with some serious state pride and a yearning to protect two of South Carolina's precious resources: Loggerhead Turtles and the textile industry. All Loggerhead Apparel is made with 100% American-grown cotton in South Carolina and 10% of all revenue goes to help the Loggerhead Sea Turtles.

There's a lot to love about the Bellwether Polos (besides their backstory), including the cotton texture, the cut, and the colors are quite nice--there's even a Pretty in the Panhandle-approved pink!

So remember how I said they're not at any local brick and mortars YET?
Let's just say that soon you'll see that cute little Loggerhead logo Springing up all over Virginia. Until then, Loggerhead Apparel is available for purchase via the interwebs at http://www.loggerheadapparel.com/ and check back for details, because one lucky reader might be getting an early Christmas present!

Loggerhead Apparel

Web: http://www.loggerheadapparel.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/loggerheadapparel

Twitter: @loggerheadapp

Holiday Happenings 2011

2011-11-30T08:24:00.006-05:00

Chestnuts roasting over open fires, one horse open sleighs, and lots of jolly happy souls: head to any of our local downtowns in December and you'll feel as if your favorite Christmas tune has come alive!

And if you find you relate more to Scrooge than St. Nick, don't fret--Shepherdstown even has a Grinch ;)

Charles Town, WV

December 3, 2PM: Charles Town Christmas Parade

December 3, 4PM: "Ghosts of Christmas Past" Progressive Haunted Tour

(P.S. First stop is DISH for some spirits and some spirits!)

December 10, 11AM - 4PM: Christmas Home Tour and Marketplace

Harpers Ferry, WV

December 2-11: Old Tyme Christmas, TONS of Events, Click Here for the Full Schedule

Martinsburg, WV

December 1: Snowflake Festival

Decemer 2, 6PM: Christmas Tree Lighting

December 3, 5:45PM: Christmas Parade

Shepherdstown, WV

December 2-24: Christmas in Shepherdstown--including, but not limited to...
December 3, 11AM: Christmas Parade
December 3, 7:30PM: Holiday Gala Concert & Reception
December 4: Live Ice Sculpture Demonstration
December 10, 7PM: The Nutcracker Ballet, Performed by the Shepherdstown School of Dance
December 24, 1PM: Tuba Christmas

Middleburg, VA

December 3, 10AM: Hunt Parade

December 3, 2PM: Christmas Parade

December 3, 3-6PM: Wine Crawl (progressive wine tastings across town)

Hagerstown, MD

December 2, 7PM: City Park Lighting
December 3-23: German Christmas at the Hager House

Williamsport, MD

December 2, 7PM: Christmas Parade

December 3-4&10-11: Charlie Brown Christmas-Reindeer in the Rafters at The Barn at Springfield Farm

For more info on what's happening when, be sure to "like" Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook: www.facebook.com/prettyinthepanhandle

Kick Off December at Jingle Bell Bling "A Girl's Night Out" at the George Washington Hotel

2011-11-23T15:40:00.005-05:00

Thursday, December 1, grab your girlfriends (or a guy to haul your newly acquired goods), don your finest festive frock, and jingle all the way to The George Washington Hotel in Winchester, Va, for the debut of Jingle Bell Bling--A Girl's Night Out Holiday Fundraiser.

Holiday merriment will include dinner, entertainment, a silent auction, door prizes and there will also be vendors set up to help you along with your holiday shopping. All proceeds from this event will benefit The Laurel Center, The Salvation Army, and Give Back with Cuts for Kids.

Tickets for this event are $69 plus a toy for the Angel Tree. Tickets are limited and this event is expected to sell-out, so snag yours now by calling 540.336.0838 or email djandliv@verizon.net

What

Jingle Bell Bling

When

December 1, 2011

6PM to 9PM

(Dinner at 7PM)

Where

The George Washington Hotel

103 East Piccadilly Street

Winchester, VA 22601

Cost

$69

The Vintage Lady of Harpers Ferry

2011-11-23T11:13:00.004-05:00

What started with some vintage button broaches, is now a fun, fabulous shopping destination located in the heart of historic Harpers Ferry, WV--The Vintage Lady.

Featuring artisan made accessories, an entire section of West Virginia-made products, and even a toy section with lots of fun things for the youngsters (and the not-so-youngsters), The Vintage Lady has a little something for everyone.

When you visit the shop be sure to check out The Vintage Lady originals including the VL broaches that started it all and the Inspiration Necklaces which come equipped with some wee words of wisdom. Hurting your pretty little head over trying to find a gal a great gift? Be sure and check out the VL birthstone pieces that are not only super snazzy, but perfectly priced for stuffing stockings.

Not planning a trip to Harpers Ferry anytime soon? Don't fret, The Vintage Lady offers online shopping with free shipping on purchases over $50. However, if you are local, be sure to drop by The Vintage Lady on Small Business Saturday: cookies will be served throughout the day, and the first 30 customers will receive a special gift with purchases of $10 or more!

The Vintage Lady

180 High Street

Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

304.535.1313

www.vintageladyharpersferry.com

For more pictures from my visit to The Vintage Lady, visit Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook: www.facebook.com/prettyinthepanhandle

Shepherdstown's 250th Anniversary Fête Begins Friday!

2011-11-22T17:25:00.003-05:00

Friday, November 25, the historical (yet oh so hip) town of Shepherdstown, WV, will commence a year-long celebration of its incorporation 250 years ago. Whether you're a life-long resident or a first-time visitor, join in the Shepherdstown 250 festivities to remember its rich past, celebrate the people, places, and events that make up the town we currently know and love, and to imagine the wonders the future may hold.

Shepherdstown 250 will kick off at 6PM during the Christmas in Shepherdstown welcome ceremony. Following the official announcement, join photographer (and long-time Shepherdstown resident) Hali Taylor for a reception at Studio 105 to check out her newly published book On the Wall. This photographic essay features over 25 years of the faces of Shepherdstown and was specially published to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the town. Following the book reception, will be an after party at the Mecklenburg Inn from 8PM to Midnight featuring live music by Kemp, Oehser, Gentry, & Wolf.

What

Shepherdstown 250th Kick Off

Hali Taylor Book Party

When

November 25, 2011

6PM (Kickoff)

5PM to 8PM (Hali Taylor Reception)

8PM to Midnight (After Party)

Where

McMurran Lawn

Studio 105

The Mecklenburg Inn

Shepherdstown, WV

Free Thanksgiving Yoga & Donation Week at Jala Yoga

2011-11-21T14:18:00.004-05:00

Thursday, November 24 (aka Thanksgiving), Jala Yoga in Shepherdstown, WV, will be offering a free 9AM yoga class. All they ask is that you bring non-perishable food items or cash monies for Jefferson County Community Ministries (JCCM) or just bring a friend who hasn't given yoga a go; even better, do both!

Keeping with the giving spirit, December 3-9, will be December Donation Week during which all classes are donation-based with all contributions going to JCCM. Donation Week will wind down with a potluck dinner on Friday, December 9, downstairs at Mellow Moods. Just bring a side dish for your post-yoga dinner and the wine and non-boozy beverages will be provided for your enjoyment.

What

Free Yoga

December Donation Week

When

Thanksgiving Morning, 9AM

December 3-9

visit

www.jalayogaflow.com

for more information

Where

Jala Yoga Flow

(above Mellow Moods)

117 West German Street

Shepherdstown, WV 24450

Cost

Don't be a Tightwad,

It's for a Good Cause

Image Courtesy of www.solyogany.com

Audubon Society Fall Fundraiser at Wild Goose Farm

2011-11-17T14:26:00.013-05:00

Saturday, November 12, the Potomac Valley Audubon Society (PVAS) hosted their 2011 fall fundraiser at historic Wild Goose Farm near Shepherdstown, WV.

Held in a hand-crafted timber frame barn, guests were treated to a barbecue dinner complete with frosty beverages (including Flying Dog Brewery's "Secret Stash") and apple slab pie.

Once desserts were downed, the live auction commenced. The auction featured an array of donated items ranging from New Orleans-esque dinner parties to vintage depression glass to a dozen fresh eggs delivered right to your doorstep for 9 months.

After the bites and bidding came the bubbly--guests could tour the Wild Goose Farm grounds via hayride and take in the festive fall foliage with a glass (or two) of champers in hand.

Tunes for the afternoon were provided by the Harlan Springs Band who treated the crowd to familiar favorites by artists like John Denver and Old Crow Medicine Show.

Those who contributed at the donor, patron, or supporter levels were given the chance for a photo op with the guest of honor, Nicodemus (Nicky) a Eurasian Eagle-Owl. Nicky has a wingspan of over 5 feet, is currently 9 years old and will live another 50+ years!

All proceeds from the event and auction will go to support PVAS programs for children. Fore more information on these programs and PVAS in general visit www.potomacaudubon.com

John & Kara Gibson,

Jeffrey Gustafson, and Stephen Skinner

Jessica Louison and Whit Hankins

The Shultz Family & Nicky

For more pictures from the PVAS Fall Fundraiser visit Pretty in the Panhandle on Facebook: www.facebook.com/prettyinthepanhandle

Thanksgiving Cooking Class at Good Natured

2011-11-15T14:41:00.004-05:00

When visiting the café at Good Natured in Martinsburg, WV, I've found there is a definite pattern to the ordering process. First, you check the daily specials and immediately start considering the quiche. Then, you drool over the dessert table, while being dumbfounded that a dessert labeled "vegan" can look so delicious (and they are). Lastly, upon finishing whatever it is that you ordered, you always leave wanting the recipe. Well, this Thursday you've got your chance!

On Thursday, November 17, Good Natured pastry chef Genesee Bondurant will be teaching a Thanksgiving Cooking Class. This class will teach you how to prepare seasonal dishes, using as many local ingredients as possible. Additionally, the Good Natured Market will be fully stocked with all of the holiday ingredients on your shopping list. That way you can do your shopping in peace without having to dodge hostile grocery cart drivers (and you will be supporting a small, independent, local business, yay!).

Cost of the class is $35 per person and includes a meal. Six people need to sign up in order for Good Natured to hold the class, so please call 304.262.9978 and reserve your spot no later than Wednesday A.M.!

What

Thanks Giving Cooking Class

When

November 17, 2011

7PM

Where

Good Natured

209 South Raleigh Street

Martinsburg, WV 25401

Cost

$35