Another chapter in the story of Staunton’s community achievements took place this past weekend on April 13.  Bridge Day was a moving tribute and exciting to see.  Hundreds of people came out to see the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Reopening of the Sears Hill Bridge.  Our beautiful Train Station bustled with lively activity.  The day started off with Lucas Coffee Roasters and The Bakers Dozen Donut Truck set-up in front of The Depot Grille.  As the crowd began to build, it spilled over onto Appalachian Piecework’s patio where attendees were entertained with demonstrations and music.  In addition to the opening day of the Staunton Station Street Market, where artisans made their wares available, the platform saw community organizations on the scene.  The Sears Hill Community had t-shirts available, the Junior Women’s League supplied Sears Hill Bridge ornaments, and the Staunton Creative Community Fund had information on their alternative economy off-shoot, hOUR Economy.  Monica Wilson Photography screened It Takes More Than Love to Build a Bridge from their Train Station storefront.  The Stonewall Brigade Band rounded things out and built excitement leading up to the dedication and Hound Dog Hill kept that excitement going after the ceremony ended.

There were so many involved in the planning of this event.  Kay of Rachel’s Quilt Patch was instrumental in getting this event started and keeping the vision for how it should transpire working in conjunction with the SDDA.  The City of Staunton assisted on so many levels.  The Friends of the Sears Hill Bridge raised money through Community Foundation.  The neighborhood and good people of Sears Hill participated every step of the way.  During the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony itself Judd Bankert, playing Woodrow Wilson, addressed the crowd.  Mayor Lacy King delivered a proclamation from City Council.  Bill Frazier, Chair of the Sears Hill Bridge Committee, recognized the committee and thanked donors.  Tom Sheets, who along with wife, Peggy, was instrumental in the day’s events, acknowledged businesses who participated and in-kind donors.  The Bridge was blessed by Reverend Shelby Owens and Kathy Eastham spoke on behalf of the Historic Staunton Foundation.

Actors from It Takes More Than Love to Build a Bridge, April Watters and Dave Hazlet, cut the ribbon and reuniting with flowers donated by Rask Florist, before departing toward Woodrow Park.  There, Staunton Parks and Recreation organized family activities in Woodrow Park that included pony rides and face painting.  Property owners John Rorrer and Susan Weeks donated the use of their buildings for family activities on Beverley Street that were put on by Anne Paulus of Grimmcrackery and Stuart Hall School.  Approximately thirty of our SDDA associated merchants participated in special offerings for Bridge Day attendees.  We cannot forget our Bridge Day Sponsors: StellarOne Bank, the News Leader, and STAR94.  To all of these people and those unnamed, we at the SDDA would like to offer a hearty thank you for a job well done.

At the ceremony that focused on the results of Main Street efforts, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Jim Cheng spoke to the audience of more than 70 downtown revitalization volunteers and professionals about the visible results of their leadership. “Virginia main streets are thriving because of the collaboration between public and private sector, local and state governments and the citizens of each community getting involved to make their downtowns an attractive place to live, work and play,” said Cheng.

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Director Bill Shelton pointed to downtown progress through the numbers. “In the last five years, designated Main Street communities have sparked more than $252 million in private investment in their districts,” said Shelton. “As a result, last year, there was a net collective gain of 424 jobs across the 25 Main Street downtown districts.”

“Historic Main Street communities are much more than bricks and mortar. They serve as the heart and soul of our communities as they evoke the stories of our past while providing incomparable economic and cultural opportunities which sustain the quality of life for all citizens,” said Cate Magennis Wyatt, former Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade and the founder of The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership. “Our national surveys have found that 84 percent of potential visitors are, first and foremost, attracted to the region because of our quaint small towns. The work of the Virginia Main Street Program is critically important to creating jobs and attracting these visitors to the commonwealth.”

The Staunton Downtown Development Association, the Staunton community, the City of Staunton and City Council has worked cooperatively since 1995 to develop a sustainable downtown economy and a culturally vibrant District that has a positive ripple effect throughout the city. Since the Staunton Main Street designation in 1995, 389 businesses have been created, generating 1,206 jobs.

A key ingredient to Staunton’s success has been the private-public partnership which inspires investment in Downtown infrastructure, streetscape and property development.  Private investments to-date total $54,957,859, funding 509 rehabilitation projects. Public investment totals $40,698,175 with 58 cumulative projects. These improvements make Staunton a premier Main Street that draws visitors and newcomers to our walkable and beautiful community and invites new and exciting businesses to Downtown.

In addition to Staunton, Virginia Main Street recognized the following communities for excellence.

• Abingdon
• Berryville
• Blackstone
• Bristol
• Culpeper
• Harrisonburg
• Lynchburg
• Manassas
• Marion
• Orange
• Radford
• St. Paul
• Waynesboro
• Winchester

Currently there are 25 designated Virginia Main Street communities: Abingdon, Altavista, Bedford, Berryville, Blackstone, Bristol, Culpeper, Farmville, Franklin, Harrisonburg, Hopewell, Luray, Lynchburg, Manassas, Marion, Martinsville, Orange, Radford, Rocky Mount, Saint Paul, South Boston, Staunton, Warrenton, Waynesboro and Winchester.

The Virginia Main Street program, managed by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, provides assistance and training to help communities increase the economic vitality of their downtown commercial districts. Virginia Main Street uses the National Main Street model to help communities revitalize their downtowns by focusing on their unique heritage and attributes.  The program helps communities implement a comprehensive revitalization strategy that creates economic growth and pride in downtowns.

The Staunton Downtown Development Association follows the Main Street 4-Points Approach with an emphasis on Design, Economic Development, Promotions and Organization. We invite new volunteers to join us at any or all of our monthly committee meetings to lend their insights and assist with steering the SDDA initiatives that strategically improve and support the Downtown Service District. Visit us online at www.stauntondowntown.org for a calendar listings and information or sign up for our weekly eNews. For more volunteer opportunities visit hOUREconomy.org.

For more information about the Virginia Main Street program, call (804) 371-7030 or visit www.dhcd.virginia.gov/MainStreet.

SDDA President, Julie Markowitz; Rachel’s Quilt Patch Owners Rachel Brown
and Kay Shirey; SDDA Board President, Greg Beam

The SDDA recently launched a new program designed to recognize one business per month for their outstanding efforts to boost traffic, support their neighbors, their individual business, and District initiatives sponsored by the SDDA.  Brainchild of current SDDA president, Greg Beam, the Thumbs Up! Award recognizes downtown businesses chosen by their peers. The SDDA Promotions Committee selects a nominee to be presented with the Thumbs Up! Award, certificate, and letter of recognition delivered by SDDA Executive Director, Julie Markowitz, and a board member.  The award remains with each recipient to display for a month and is featured online through the SDDA eBlasts and Facebook page.

The program launched in December with Rachel’s Quilt Patch being honored for organizing events around their section of the Downtown Business District.  Taking a planned Customer Appreciation Day and joining forces with the SDDA’s Downtown Trick or Treat Event brought focus to their neighbors at the Train Station with the addition of the Bakers Dozen Donut Truck, Lucas Coffee Roasters, and outdoor music.

Since that first award, in January the Promotions Committee has recognized Susan Weeks, owner of Pretty Pretty and downtown property, including the Bard’s Nest, for philanthropic property ownership. Her willingness to make her storefront accessible and affordable to entrepreneurs encourages start-up businesses.  Pufferbellies Toys and Books was honored in February for their year around commitment to non-profits aiding families through their Shop Sundays for a Cause program.  This month, the recipient of the Thumbs Up! Award for March was Baja Bean selected by their peers for partnering with many charities during the SDDA’s Love, Downtown promotion.  Baja Bean hosted events benefiting Cat’s Cradle, Staunton Montessori, Mary Baldwin, Ocular Melanoma research, Augusta Dog Adoptions, and the American Shakespeare Center!

The SDDA is very excited about the launch of this award.  Keep an eye out for upcoming honorees in our monthly newsletters and weekly eBlasts and on our Facebook page.

Senior management has fostered innovative ideas that set them apart from the competitive set. In 2010, the property opened a rooftop garden to grow fresh herbs and vegetables for their own special version of ‘farm to table’. The staff worked with a local landscape company to select indigenous plants and utilized the air conditioning run-off water for irrigation. The hotel is a Virginia Green participant and adheres to the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s guidelines on green best practices.

General Manger Carol Simon has taught a hospitality courses at James Madison University and is active in college recruitment. As part of this initiative, the property annually hosts interns to provide practical work experience affording students a springboard from college life to career life.

About Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc.
Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest independent hospitality management companies. Founded in 2000, the company presently manages 47 hotels, resorts and conference and convention centers with nearly 8,400 rooms in 11 states and the District of Columbia. Crestline Hotels & Resorts manages 9 independent properties in major US markets including Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles and Washington D.C. Crestline also manages properties under such well-regarded brands as Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Sheraton, and Crowne Plaza. For more information visit: www.crestlinehotels.com.

About the Stonewall Jackson Hotel & Conference Center
The 124-room Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center in Staunton, VA was originally built in 1924. The hotel underwent a $22 million expansion and restoration and reopened in 2005. The property, managed by Crestline Hotels and Resorts, is a member of Historic Hotels of American and features a fitness center, indoor pool, indoor parking garage, dining, bar and 8,500 sq. ft. of elegant meeting and banquet space. For reservations or more information visit www.StonewallJacksonHotel.com

Greg Beam, SDDA Board President remarked on the grant award:  “Receiving this grant significantly increases our ability to continue a number of Design, Economic Development and Promotions projects that have been in the works for years.  The new lighting will make the targeted areas more inviting for evening business and better connect the many unique areas within our Downtown Service District.” 

Virginia Main Street Downtown Improvement Grants of up to $25,000 per designated community were made available for special, one-time projects. The grant opportunity is designed to offer communities the ability to complete a Main Street-related project for which financial resources are not otherwise available. Grant criteria included economic, measurable impact or deliverables, committee or volunteer project leadership/involvement, leveraging of other fund sources, local government involvement/support and short duration of project. 

Current Lighting Does Not Illuminate Sidewalks

There are 42 fixtures in the target areas that were installed a part of the Downtown Streetscape Plan in the 1980’s.  Currently, existing fixtures emit 3,200 lumens from 42 watt compact fluorescents.  Much of that light is lost up into the sky and does not illuminate sidewalks.  The Main Street grant will fund new luminaries with 70 watt metal halide lights that emit 5,500 lumens directed toward the walkways. The new lights will use less energy and satisfy the dark sky initiative. It is estimated that this will increase the light level on the walkways by 3 to 4 times. 

Example of New Lighting

This upgrade will be completed through the leveraging of a strong partnership between the Staunton Downtown Development Association, the City of Staunton and the Public Work Department. “Thanks to the hard work of Julie Markowitz, downtown Staunton will be look brighter at night, and continues to get better,” said Tom Sliwoski, Director of Public Works. 

The SDDA’s Design, Promotions and Economic Development Committees will be involved in the project development as well as businesses in the affected areas. 

 “The additional funding will drastically improve the lighting in the Wharf and the Train Station creating better connection for those businesses and driving evening traffic to their doors,” said Julie Markowitz, Executive Director of the SDDA. “The upgraded lighting will look similar to the new lighting installed on Churchville Avenue and be a vast improvement in visibility for those businesses.”

This month marks the 5th anniversary for Jennifer L. Jones as a member of the American Shakespeare Center family. For those of you who come to the Blackfriars Playhouse, her face is likely familiar. Whether she’s assisting a patron, managing the Box Office staff, or troubleshooting a maintenance issue, Jennifer is always ready to do what needs to be done to make each patron’s visit to the ASC the best experience it can be.

In honor of her 5 year anniversary, we sat down with Jennifer to learn more about her:

Where are you from and what brought you to Staunton?

I am originally from Montgomery, AL. I moved to Staunton in 2003 with my now husband who attended the MLitt/MFA program at Mary Baldwin College.

My first day in Staunton, I found out that I had something in common with ASC Co-Founder and Director of Mission, Dr. Ralph Alan Cohen. He is also from Montgomery and we both went to Sidney Lanier High School. Go Poets!

When did you start working at the ASC and in what capacity and when did you become the Box Office Manager?

My first day at ASC was December 18, 2006. I started as a bartender that Holiday season. I started working full time in the box office in March 2007, and I became Box Office Manager in October 2007.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is talking to folks who are coming to the Blackfriars for the first time. I love how excited people are to see our playhouse and our shows.

What is your favorite thing/part of the Blackfriars Playhouse?

I don’t know that I have a favorite part of the Playhouse itself, but my favorite part of being in the Playhouse is the Actors’ Renaissance Season every year. The performances that come out of those seasons are simply amazing.

I still remember when we did Pericles in the 2007 Actors’ Renaissance Season. I hated Pericles when I read it, but I wanted to see the show anyway. It was nothing short of magical. I think I ended up watching Pericles four or five times that season.

What is the biggest change you’ve seen at ASC and/or in Staunton while you’ve been here?

I have loved watching downtown Staunton grow over the last five years.

What is your favorite Shakespeare play and why?

Hamlet will always hold a special place in my heart. It is the first Shakespeare play I remember seeing live, and the first show I memorized a soliloquy from.

With which Shakespeare character do you most identify and why?

If I had to pick, I guess Horatio. He has a kind of blind loyalty to his friends that I (mostly) admire.

What do you hope that people get out of their visits to the Blackfriars Playhouse?

I hope that people feel the passion that everyone at ASC has for what we do. One of the greatest parts of working for ASC is getting to work with people who are passionate about what they do everyday. To me, it makes the difference between a job and a career.

When you’re not at the ASC what do you like to do?

I read (fiction); I spend time with my wonderful husband, Noah; and I watch ridiculous TV with my best friend, Christina. As much as I enjoy the intellectual stimulation of working at ASC; when I go home, I like to turn my brain off.

Thank you, Jennifer, for being a part of what makes the American Shakespeare Center so special.

Want to feature one of your employees or learn more about someone from downtown Staunton?  Send us an email at sdda_assistant@ci.staunton.va.us and we’ll feature them on our website, blog and in the eblast!

Staunton, Virginia – January 17, 2012 – When the Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA) launched its low-tech gift card program in late 2007, the idea was to create a convenient, inexpensive and easily administered way to stimulate sales at downtown shops and restaurants.   With increases in Gift Card sales topping more the 38% in 2011 and participation by downtown merchants reaching more than 90 businesses, the SDDA believes the program has provided a much needed shot in the arm to downtown’s economy and empowered consumers with a visible way to participate in the Buy Local movement.

Julie Markowitz, Executive Director of the SDDA describes the program’s growth: “We sold more than $50,000 in downtown gift cards in 2011 that can be redeemed at most businesses in our downtown district.  That’s going to be a significant boost to our merchants in the early part of 2012 as the cards are used.  Because this program is operated with low administrative costs and is free for merchants and consumers to use, it’s really a wonderful way to engage the community in being an active part of supporting downtown.  It’s not only become a great gift, but also a powerful reward incentive that is being used by local lodging establishments and businesses to encourage visitors or employees to explore downtown.  It’s exciting to see the community truly rallying around our ‘Buy Local. Give Local.’ message. ” 

The Downtown Staunton Gift Card is sold in denominations of $5, $10, $20 and $50 and can be used just like cash.  They are available at Pufferbellies Toys & Books, Turtle Lane, The Sacred Circle, Schmid’s Printery and the SDDA office at 110 W. Johnson St. and there are no fees involved for consumers or merchants.  The SDDA has worked to raise awareness of the cards the past few years with special giveaways and promotions, the most successful being a $10 bonus with the purchase of a $50 card and the introduction of ELFis, an Elvis Elf who promotes gift card sales during the holiday season.  

Participation in the beginning years of the program averaged around 60 businesses and sales grew slowly.  Markowitz believes in addition to constant emphasis by the SDDA, the increasing popularity of Buy Local programs and publicity surrounding national events like Small Business Saturday and Independents Week have helped raise awareness. 

For more information about downtown gift cards, visit www.stauntondowntown.org

The ornament is a depiction of the Dixie Window in beautiful brass and enamel.  The note cards are a color photo of the three Dixie windows, including envelopes.
The ornament is $15.
Pack of eight cards is $15.
They can be purchased at the Staunton Performing Arts Center office at 103 East Beverley Street, Staunton or at Bookworks, 101 West Beverley Street, Staunton. They can be ordered by phone at 540-885-3211. MasterCard, VISA, and American Express are accepted. Add $5 for shipping and handling, if needed.

Dixon Studio Gifts!

Make Christmas more meaningful -and more beautiful- with gifts from the Priestly Life Catalog at Dixon Studio. And, make it easy on yourself with free gift wrapping! We have searched through all the seasonal silliness to find a few wonderful pieces that are engaging and inspiring, as well as appropriate gifts for and from priests.

 Check out the Christmas Shopping page for the free giftwrap items. And remember: free shipping site-wide this week AND all books always on sale! This is too good and too easy!

Pamper Your Canine Friends This Holiday at Turtle Lane. Turtle Lane has gifts for your canine family members! We carry locally made gourmet dog treats, collars and charms! Bring your pooch by anytime for a free sample!  We also carry great locally made gifts, featuring work from over 30 of your friends and neighbors. 

Turtle Lane ~ 10 East Beverley Street ~ (540)886-8591 ~www.turtlelanegifts.com ~ turtlelanegifts@yahoo.com

The Wine Cellar Holiday Wine Case 2011  ($149) 

Gruet Brut (New Mexico) This Brut offers a crisp and full-bodied sparkling wine, which has developed rich complexity and fine mousse. Brilliant with ultra fine bubbles. A wonderful fine bouquet dominated by green apple and grapefruit flavors combines with the allure of toasty finish from twenty-four months on tirage, a complement to the sophisticated apple and citrus flavor.   

Angeline Sauvignon Blanc ( Russian River, California) –  This wine, produced 100% in stainless steel is the ideal refreshment by a warm fire on a cool day. Fresh floral, honeydew melon and bright tropical aromas lead to crisp and lively green melon flavors. This wine finishes soft and light with a lingering touch of citrus. Try with mango shrimp, light spiced halibut with lemon or crab-stuffed flounder. 

Man Vitners Chenin Blanc (South Africa) – Bright yellow, cool aromas of melon, kiwi, lime zest and herbs and Juicy and densely packed, with a bit of sweetness balanced by brisk acidity. A crisp, clean midweight with a  lively finish.  A versatile food wine to go with most poultry, fish and salad dishes. Also fabulous as an aperitif. 

Santa Julia Torrontes (Mendoza, Argentina) – An organic, dry wine that pours a pale white gold with an aromatic nose with notes of grapefruit, rose, and peach.  The wine is light-bodied and refreshing with vibrant tastes of grapefruit, orange, pear, ginger and lively acidity; a long finish and the flavors linger on with a hint of orange peel. Delicious with spicy dishes, smoked salmon, or composed salads. 

Barren Ridge Tinkling Spring (Virginia) – The Shenandoah Valley in a glass by way of vidal blanc, vignier, traminete, chardonnay and riesling. With an intriguing lime ice nose, spritely lime and ripe green fruit palate and medium finish. Cool, crisp and fruity, this exclusive wine features the artwork of local artist P. Buckley Moss.  Pair with seafood, lemon chicken, curry, tajines. 

Ruca Malen Chardonnay (Argentina) – Ripe, luscious pear, apples, peaches, and apricot share a ride on a creamy texture with notes of caramel and toasty vanilla spice. It is also surprisingly bright with acidity and a great food match for turkey, stuffing, and creamed pearl onions. 

Evodia (Catalyud, Spain) – This wine offers up a slightly exotic nose of earthy minerality, mocha, black cherry, black raspberry, high-pitched aromas of strawberry preserves, and pungent flowers. Concentrated but not at all heavy; sweet raspberry and blackberry flavors are lifted by a hint of violet.  Pairs well with cured pork and aged cheeses.

Monte Sciavo Rosso Piceno (Italy) – Rosso Piceno is a red wine from Marche (“The Marches,” the Italian region across from Rome, on Italy’s eastern Adriatic coast. It’s made from at least 60 percent Sangiovese (the Chianti grape), plus some of Marche’s native Montepulciano.  Similar to Chianti in style, pairs well with pasta and pizza, and roasted herbed meats. 

McManis Family Vineyards Petit Sirah (California) – Deep purple in color with bright hues, the Petite Sirah is full of boysenberry and blueberry fruit aromas. Mocha notes contributed from oak aging are also present. The wine is big, rich and full of juicy red and black fruit flavors. Serve with game, roasted garlic, and filet mignon. 

Gabriele Rausse Cabernet Sauvignon (Virginia) – Attractive and inviting black cherry palette, nicely seasoned with a wisp of spice.  Produced in Italian style with clean structure and clear fruit flavors, most likely the only stainless steel aged Cabernet Sauvignon in Virginia. Classic with steak au poivre, aged cheeses like Parmeggiano Regiano and of course, chocolate. 

Santa Julia Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – Dark violet with brilliant purple colors. Good complexity in the nose with aromas of ripe fruit such as figs, plums, and blackberries.. Notes of vanilla, tobacco, coffee, and chocolate. Full-bodied red wine with sweet tannins, good structure, and long finish. Pairs perfectly with a juicy steak, beef bourguignon, pasta with red sauces, or dark chocolate. 

Xavier Cotes du Ventoux  (France) – Dense ruby/purple color followed by a warm elegant nose of red and black fruits and spice; intermixed with subtle herbs, forest floor and spring flowers. Noteworthy length and balance.  Perfect for enjoying with roasted meats or a simple wild mushroom pasta dish and cheeses.

Open Monday through Saturday from 11 until 6
Visit us on the web: www.stauntonwinecellar.com
Contact Us: The Wine Cellar, 8 Byers St.,540-213-WINE, winecellar@mail.com

Naughty or Nice? Give the Gift of Shakespeare this Holiday Season.

NICE
Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim return to the Blackfriars Playhouse in Charles Dickens’s classic holiday story, A Christmas Carol.  Bring the whole family* to see the 2011/12 Almost Blasphemy Tour as they offer up a production full of music, laughter, and cheer. 

NAUGHTY
Enjoy the snarkier side of the holiday season with Ginna Hoben’s The Twelve Dates of Christmas and David Sedaris’s The Santaland Diaries. Leave the kids at home,* grab a drink at our bar, and escape the holiday rush.  

Give the Gift of Shakespeare
Share your love of the American Shakespeare Center this holiday season.  Whether it’s a package under the tree or the anticipation of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the ASC can provide the perfect present for everyone on your list. 

All’s Well Massage Holiday Hours for Gift Card Sales! 

Fri.,   Dec. 16, 4-7pm
Sat.,  Dec. 17, 2-6pm
Sun., Dec 18, noon-5pm

Gift Packages from All’s Well Massage Studio.  Choose from:
½ hr. massage with soft hands or sole cleanse treatment just $40
1 hr. massage with both soft hands and sole cleanse treatment just $80

11 E. Beverley St., Suite 17  540-213-1975  Laura & Lisa.  www.allswellmassage.com

Staunton Augusta Art Center presents the annual Art for Gifts exhibition and sale November 19-December 31 .  Art for Gifts is open seven days per week with extended hours: 10-6 Mon. – Sat. and 1-4 Sun.  Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.  Located at 20 S. New Street in the Smith Center building across from the Visitor Center and parking garage in historic downtown Staunton.  Art for Gifts features affordable, unique gifts of art and fine craft by over 70 Virginia artists, many participating for the first time.  No admission charge.  Members receive a 10% discount on all purchases.  For more information, visit www.saartcenter.org or call 540.885.2028. 

Smith Center Museum Store on One-of-a-Kind Items! The Smith Center Museum Store has placed two one-of-a-kind side tables on SALE! Made by local artist and fine craftsmen, Gary Hostetter. Wood includes Mahogany and Spalted Maple. All original, Shaker Style designs. More of Gary Hostetter’s work available in store. Holiday Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 1-4pm.
Smith Center Museum Store ~20 S. New St. ~  540-886-8755

Want something truly local and collectible for your home this holiday season that also gives back to the community?  Then be sure to buy one of the Staunton Augusta Junior Women’s Club’s (SAJWC) beautiful ornaments!  2011 marks the 19th year SAJWC has sponsored this sale and this year’s ornament is called Christmas in Historic Staunton.  The ornament features an image of the historic lampposts found in downtown Staunton with a lovely filigree boarder. 

 The Staunton Augusta Junior Women’s Club is a local group made up of women starting at ages 18 and up. They have been an organized Club for over twenty years in the Augusta County and Staunton area. Proceeds from this fundraiser support SAJWC’s service projects throughout the year.  In 2011 SAJWC provided New Directions with warm blankets, Valley Mission with meals, sponsored “Shop with a Cop”, donated earrings to breast cancer patients at Augusta Health and gave funds to various local community service organizations.  A favorite project among members was making and serving a meal at the Valley Mission. 

 In addition to the Christmas in Historic Staunton ornament, they have numerous other ornaments for sale.  Below is the availability and price list. 

• 2011 New! Christmas in Historic Staunton: $17 each
• Underpass, RE Lee, Mrs Rowe’s: $10 each
• DeJarnette, Lady Libby Trolley, Trinity Church, Augusta Military Academy: $5 each

 Ornaments can be purchase from members directly; during sales at St John’s Church, 1716 N. Augusta St., on Wednesday, Nov 30th, 5-7pm/Thursday, Dec 1st,5-7pm/ Sat. Dec 3rd 9am-noon; or at celebrate!!!, 16 W. Beverley St.  and Turtle Lane, 10 E. Beverley St.