HOTSpOTS - Lake Anna Life
Transcription
HOTSpOTS - Lake Anna Life
2011 lake anna life LKA™ A Guide To Living & Vacationing LEARN TO talk like a laker HOTSpots of the lake to enjoy MUST-DO'S for your LKA list GUIDE TO fishing BOATing Trends which one is right for you? JOIN US FOR THE OVER $1,150 worth of FREE CouPons! pgs. 66-67 perfect day on lake anna BUILDING your dream home Now visit us with your smart phone! calendar of events // side trips with style // lka profiles lakeannalife.com 2011 1 Quality Brands. Certified Service. We Offer the ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE on the Water. MALIBU BRYANT AQUA PATIO HURRICANE YAMAHA SWEETWATER SANPAN Lake Anna Business Partnership at Anna Point Marina. 540.895.5575 13703 Anna Point Lane, Lake Anna, VA 23117, at the Rt. 208 Bridge 2 lakeannalife.com 2011 Fuel On & Off The Water • Fishing Guides • Water Toys • Snacks • Drinks • Bait "I invite you to join us this season for fishing, boating and family fun!" - Dave Fauntleroy, Tackle Manager formerly The Shore Store at Anna Point Marina www.annapoint.com • 540.895.5900 3721 Anna Point Lane, Lake Anna VA 23117 MARINE PARTS & ACCESSORIES WAKEBOARDS Home of the Famous, Hungry Carp! From Anchors To Zinc Annodes, TOWABLES We Have the Lake's BEST Selection of Marine Supplies! at Anna Point Marina www.lcmarine.com 540.895.5575 3 lakeannalife.com 13703 Anna Point Lane, Lake Anna, VA 23117 2011 2011 LAPB Sponsored Events June 13 - Kevin Simpson Memorial Golf Tournament October 1 - LABP Annual Vegas Night November 26 & 27 - LABP Christmas Open House Weekend April 30, 2012 - LABP Spring Fling Festival Thanks. We’re glad you’re living and playing at Lake Anna. Lake Anna Business Partnership 4 Join Over 100 Businesses Working to Promote and Protect Lake Anna. lakeannalife.com 2011www.visitlakeanna.org [email protected] Roofing & Siding Steve Bean WE DELIVER QUALITY! Lewis Alewine Our Lake Anna Team Is Ready to Help You Build Your Dream Home, Boat House or Dock. lakeannalife.com 2011 5 2011 lake anna life LKA™ A Guide To Living & Vacationing FEATURES 12 14 18 28 34 36 38 42 46 48 50 56 60 welcome to the lake the perfect day on LKA 30 LKA must-do's building your dream home why choose a local realtor? 56 spectacular boathouses 4-season activity guide guided fishing about the cover The many ways to enjoy LKA. how to talk like a local Photos by our readers. LKA personalities Resources which boat is right? 51 Boating Safety 66 Coupons dining at lake anna 68 Calendar Of Events 72 Advertiser Index lka hotspots 73 Lake Anna Map 6 lakeannalife.com 2011 14 28 42 lakeannalife.com 2011 7 Fishing Guides • Rental Pontoons • Boat Slips • Boat Storage • Fuel • Tackle Shop • Boat Repairs Sturgeon Creek Marina Celebrating 39 Years of leadership 1,110 $ OFF ANY IN-STOCK PONTOON! See our coupon on page 66. Sales & Rentals of JC Pontoon Boats! Pontoons & Tritoons Available in 19'-30' Pontoon Boats • Separate Jetski Launch Ramp • Tackle Shop • Lake's Largest Boat Launching Facility • Marine & Trailer Parts • Pay At The Pump • Covered On The • On & Off-TheFuel On The Water Water Boat Slips Water Boat Storage Boat & Motor Service You can see our complete calendar at our website. AsYou Can See,We're Ready For The Season! Give Us A Call At 540.895.5095 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! www.sturgeoncreekmarina.com Located on Rt. 208, 5107 Courthouse Road Spotsylvania, Va. 22551 8 lakeannalife.com 2011 Are you ready to live the Lake Anna life? Call our team of pros at Plum Tree Properties. 540.872.1301 www.plumtree-properties.com Premier Custom Homes Noah's Landing and on Your Lot A detail-minded builder that listens and understands the importance of time. lakeannalife.com 2011 9 Living The LKA Life W Credits Woods & Waters Publishing, LC PUBLISHER elcome to Lake Anna and the 2011 edition of Lake Anna Life C.C. McCotter Magazine. We hope you enjoy your visit and make it a tradition EDITOR for years to come. If you are a local, we hope this Lake Anna Life finds a place on the coffee table and makes you proud of your community. Christine McCotter Lake Anna Life is our attempt to capture the lifestyle of lake living as well as MANAGING EDITOR showcase the essence of what makes the area so special, not only to our visitors but to those Lakers that call LKA home. Megan Smiley Between our covers you’ll find so many things to do here, you’ll probably need STAFF WRITER several years to accomplish them. And by then, we’ll have even more for you to try! Kristy Koontz, Nancy Komatz, Linda Fosdick, Back by popular demand is Lake Anna Life’s list of Must-Do’s. We have 30 great Steve Benjoar, Kate Elim traditions and new options for you to “check-off” your list during your stay. From PHOTOGRAPHY adults to children, locals to visitors, we have something for everyone on the list. Our look at Building Your Dream Home includes every aspect from working Special thanks to the with a local realtor, to picking the right lot for your lifestyle to working with a Lake Anna Business Partnership builder that’s right for you. We even showcase some of the lake’s most Spectacular Piers & Boathouses as these structures have become where much of the Read online at www.lakeannalife.com. For advertising weekends are spent around the lake! information or hard copy, please send requests to lkalife@ Ever quested for a “do it all” in one day on LKA? In this edition we outline earthlink.net or call 540.894.3540. what we think just might fit the description in our Perfect Day On The Lake piece. The 2011 Lake Anna Life Magazine is a publication of We invite you to join us at our Facebook site to share photos of your own perfect Woods & Waters Publishing, LC. All rights reserved. ©2011. day. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including There’s our pieces on LKA Hotspots, Favorite Foods, Boating Trends and photography, advertisements and articles without written Boating Safety, a humorous attempt to teach you How To Talk Like A permission from Woods & Waters Publishing, LC. Local, our LKA Life Profiles of notable Lakers, Fishing Tips, over $1,200 worth of coupons, a detailed Calendar of Events and so much more. TM If you are a long time visitor or a local, you know the lake has grown incredibly in just the past 12 months. Many new commercial businesses now operate, grateful LAKE ANNA, VA for local patronage as well as that of our seasonal tourists. While all this development is part of the inevitable evolution of Lake Anna, let’s not forget what brought us all to the lake to start – the ability to get away from it all, the quiet coves, the hoot of an owl at dusk, the silent lakeannalife.com. There’s an electronic version splendor of spring dogwoods and redbuds along the shore, the clear water great of the magazine there, plus links to great blogs, for swimming, snorkeling, watersports and fine fishing. activities and much more. At Lake Anna Life we recognize the importance of maintaining the intrinsic From all of us here at Lake Anna Life, I thank beauty of Lake Anna and maintaining a balance of development and “rustication”. you for your visit if you have traveled to the We are so strongly devoted to each that we are creating a Lake Anna Fund lake and also thank our local readers for your that can be used to create fish habitat, make donations to organizations and help support. Enjoy the Lake Anna Life this year! finance efforts that work to ensure Lake Anna is a desirable place to live, work and play for well into the future. Each year we will accept donations as well as seed the fund with $300. Email or call us if you’d like to be a part of this way of giving back to a lake that has provided so much for us all. I hope you can see how passionate we are about LKA and showcasing it properly to the world. It’s a job we take seriously, and as life long publishers professionally. Don’t forget you can read Lake Anna Life online where ever you are at www. LKA C.c. & Christine McCotter read us anywhere on www.lakeannalife.com 10 lakeannalife.com 2011 No Matter The Season, We Have A Lake Anna Rental Home For You! Spend Christmas At The Lake Thanksgiving, too! Visit Our New t Location a e New Bridg xt e Landing, n to Food Lion! Dockside Realty www.docksiderealty.com See our rentals online at 11006 Kentucky Springs Rd., Lake Anna VA 23117 540.894.9400 [email protected] lakeannalife.com 2011 11 welcome to the I history of lake anna Lake Anna iss formed by a onemile earth and stone dam built spanning the North Anna River. In 1968, Virginia Electric and Power Company (now Dominion) purchased 18,000 acres (73 km) of farmlands in three counties along the North Anna and Pamunkey Rivers to provide clean, fresh water to cool the nuclear power generating plants at the North Anna Nuclear Generating Station adjacent to the lake. By 1972 the lake bottom was cleared of all timber and the dam was nearing completion. It was projected to take three years to completely fill the lake, but with the additional rainfall from Hurricane Agnes, the lake was full in only 11 months. The first communities broke ground at about that same time and now some 130 different subdivision dot the shores of the lake. In 1971 the Virginia Electric and Power Company (now known as Dominion Resources) closed the dam gates on the North Anna River and initiated a plan to create a new lake in central Virginia - Lake Anna. Designed to provide condenser cooling water for the North Anna Nuclear Power Station, the 9,600-acre lake filled quickly and equally as quickly became a favorite with area anglers and later with watersports enthusiasts. Anyone with land on the lake could expect a knock at the door early in the morning from an angler eager to try his luck. From the beginning, Lake Anna was designed for use as a multi-purpose facility. While Dominion engineers knew the lake would accommodate both the power station and recreational users, probably few could envision how popular the lake would become. When Hurricane Agnes blew through central Virginia in the summer of ‘72 and dumped 14-inches of rain, Lake Anna was formed; two years ahead of schedule. Planners had predicted it would take some three years to fill the new lake. When flooded, the North Anna river valley created a lake well-suited to the many faceted needs and wants of the recreational visitor. It was almost an instant bass fishing hit. Before the lake was impounded there was a North Anna River. It was a smallish river by most standards, really not much more than an over-sized creek, that flowed quietly through Orange, Spotsylvania and Louisa Counties. The North Anna is a primary tributary of the York River system, beginning in the upper Piedmont area of Virginia in Albemarle and Orange Counties and flows southeast for about 60 twisty miles until joining with its sister river, the South Anna. Here the two join to form the Pamunkey River which joins several other tributaries before emptying into the York River and eventually into the Chesapeake Bay. Much can be said about life along the North Anna before Lake Anna was created. The surrounding area was as rich as the newly flooded lake bottom with rural heritage. From the mines of Contrary Creek to the moonshine stills in the gently rolling hills and hollows, quite a bit of local history went under with the closing of the gates at the dam in 1971. The Private Side Adjacent to Lake Anna, but not accessible by the public is what Dominion Resources dubbed the Waste Heat Treatment Facility (W.H.T.F.). This series of three connected minilakes or lagoons totals 3,400 acres and makes up the total of the lake's13,400 acres. Access to the W.H.T.F. is limited to landowners and their guests. The purpose of the W.H.T.F. is to receive the nuclear plant’s cooling water and dissipate the heat it has acquired on its trip through the plant into the atmosphere. This usually happens fairly well before the water mixes back into the lower end of the main lake at the only place where the “hot” side When Hurricane Agnes blew through central Virginia in the summ 12 lakeannalife.com 2011 lake we're glad you could join us... combines with the “cold”. Three earth and rock dikes separate the main lake from the W.H.T.F. Dike Three, while like the others separates its pond from the main lake, also has a breech in it where the cooling water mixes back into the main lake. The W.H.T.F. is an extremely unusual system, with warm, moving water flowing throughout much of its boundaries. This can give rise to some interesting fishing and boating opportunities. It has long been a secret year-round fishing hole among local landowners and more recently a year round waterskiing and wakeboarding haven. Currently, there are two nuclear reactors operating at the plant. There are plans calling for the construction of another reactor. While the plant’s NRC license expired 2002, Virginia Power was relicensed for another 20 years. Lake Sections and Their Characteristics When the dam gates closed in 1971 and the gently rolling river valley filled, a lake was created with an amazing 271.5 miles of shoreline, wandering 16.7 miles back toward its headwaters. The main and public portion of Lake Anna covers 9,595 acres in Louisa, Spotsylvania and Orange Counties. Each portion of the lake differs in its characteristics and it is important to understand these differences when deciding where to fish or stay or buy. Upper Lake The upper end of Lake Anna is marked by narrow, river-like stretches beginning at the confluence of the Pamunkey Branch and the North Anna, better known as The Splits. This section continues up into the headwaters of the lake. Much of the upper lake is shallow with an average depth of four feet. Mid Lake Midlake areas stretch roughly from The Splits down lake to around the power plant. This area is less like a river than up lake and is marked by large open expanses of deep, clear water. The mid lake region is where most of the commercial activity is located. Down Lake The down lake area is the rest of Anna that spreads out around the Dikes and the dam. This often mile-wide portion of the lake has an average depth of 33 feet and stratifies distinctly and deeply in the summer but mixes in the winter. The water in this region is very clear and there is little commercial development down lake. The discharge area at Dike Three combines W.H.T.F. waters with the main lake quickly due to the deeply submerged openings in the dike. Depending on the rate of the circulation pumps, the cycle of water in the W.H.T.F. is approximately 14 days. Virginia Power engineers did their homework, because more than half of the heat gained from the water’s trip through the plant is dissipated by the time it mixes back into the main lake. extensively monitored water temperatures throughout the lake for years and some very interesting results have been gathered. The remote temperature buoys Virginia Power used can still be seen scattered throughout the lake. Some are still in use. They are barrel-shaped with an orange diamond marking on the sides. From all these readings, engineers learned that the majority of the shallower, upper end of the lake and mid lake area warm slightly earlier in the spring. Maximum temperature in both areas is reached early in the summer. The deeper, down lake stretches warm slower, however, heat is retained much longer. The peak here is later in the summer. Virginia Power estimates that the power plant only adds an additional one-tenth of heat to the natural levels experienced throughout the year. Temperatures can vary greatly throughout Lake Anna during the year. The upper lake areas usually are warmest and often reach the upper 80's during the summer. However, they also cool down more quickly in the fall. Water temperatures fall into the 50's by November. The lower lake is just the opposite, though, often remaining in the 60's until the end of November. What about the “hot” side of the lake? How hot does it get in the summer time? During an average summer, the hot side can reach temperatures exceeding 90-95 degrees. Winter time temperatures in Pond I rarely dip below 60 degrees. Dominion biologists and engineers have mer of '72 and dumped 14" of rain, Lake Anna was formed... two years ahead of schedule. lakeannalife.com 2011 13 JOIN US FOR the perfect day on lake anna From sunrise to sunset you can fish, boat, tube, swim, paddle, hike, ride, eat, star gaze and shop.... T By C.C. McCotter The perfect day on Lake Anna starts with a pre-dawn coffee and quick breakfast at one of our great country stores (Elk Creek, New Bridge and Dickinsons), because you need to be in place to greet the sunrise. A fine place to do this is in a boat in the down lake region, right around the island off Tyler Point. From here, you can watch the sun come up over the dam, first with a warm pink/orange glow and then bursting over the horizon and illuminating the lake northwestward back to Old Rag Mountain in the 14 lakeannalife.com 2011 distance. Now it’s time to make a few casts for bass or striper while the morning is calm and quiet. The Dike III region offers great fishing opportunities year-round and is nearby. Once the 10 am hour rolls around, it’s time to stow the rods and join the fun of watersports. Tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing and more are favorites among Lakers and visitors. Find some flat water at the mouth of Valentine's Cove or over near Dike II and have a blast. When you think you can’t take any more, take a break to enjoy that lunch you packed (perhaps the Weekender Special from Subway?) and pull up at The Bahamas for some beach time, too. Soak your feet or take a dip, the water is clear and clean. This area is located near Boggs Creek, across from the power plant behind the islands. After lunch your can choose to nap and tan (not!) or get back out there and make some wakes. Consider renting a personal watercraft, flying a kite off the back of the boat (or rental pontoon) or just stay put during the heat of the day. Snorkeling is a great way to enjoy an afternoon on the lake. The water is so clear in the lower lake region you can see and feed the fish in many areas! Find a little sandy beach along the shore, anchor the boat The many docks and boathouses that line Lake Anna are a great place to spend the perfect day. and set up the lawn chairs. The old foundation homeplace in front of Peaceable Kingdom offers a fascinating underwater view of the past. Find it and slip on the snorkel masks for some underwater treasure hunting! Once the sun dips, get back in place to look westward as the sun sets below the mountains and Lake Anna’s nightlife begins. Rack the boat and head back to the house for dinner with friends on the dock, porch or at any one of the great restaurant options in the LKA area. You can choose from hibachi grilled items, Lake Anna Monster sighting? sushi, sashimi, burgers, sandwiches, local wines, crabcakes, pizza, subs and more. Want something sweet? Try the hand-dipped ice cream at Elk Creek or Dickinson's Country Stores. Elk Creek's Sweet Spot even offers frozen yogurt and soft serve. After dinner and dessert, it's time to head back to the rental or your own home for an evening on the dock or boathouse with family and friends. The stars do shine brighter here and you can watch for falling stars and listen to whipporwhills or owls as the evening turns into night. If you are up for some real adventure don't go to bed yet... It's now the perfect time to go on a Lake Anna Monster hunt! Grab your flashlight and camera because continued on page 16 lakeannalife.com 2011 15 THE PERFECT DAY on Lake Anna Cabins, Camping & Picnic Shelters Christopher Run Campground and Lake Anna State Park have many options for visitors that want to enjoy the outdoors. There are cabins, lodges, picnic pavilions and tent sites available at each location. To make a reservation with Christopher Run call 540.894.4744. To make reservations at the State Park call 1.800.933.7275. Shopping you might just find what you are looking for and need to document the experience. Don’t stay up too late, because if you’re here for the weekend, you’ve got another day to enjoy! Want to go down the road less traveled? Consider renting a kayak and paddle the more remote sections of the lake like The Sanctuary in the upper North Anna. Paddle from the Rt. 208 marinas and you are within a quarter mile of the 1,000 plus acre Lake Anna State Park with plenty of hiking trails, places to swim and quiet, undeveloped coves. Like to shop? Before you head home, check out Lake Anna Outfitters, "The Coolest Little Shop on the Lake". Inside you'll find everything from those LKA stickers to caps and t-shirts, plus art, flags of all kinds, kites and more. Next store in the Anna Point Marina complex you'll find the Lake Country Boating Store and Fish Tales, also good options for gifts and marina supplies. Horseback Riding Easy Keeper Farm and Lake Anna State Park invite you to join them for horseback rides during your visit to the lake. Easy Keeper offers a summer riding camp for youngsters. The State Park has over 11 miles of trails for those that bring their own horses. Christopher Run Lodge State Park Beach Fees The beach at Lake Anna State Park is a very popular place from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A limited number of guests are permitted and life guards are on duty at all times.Be sure and arrive early on holidays and summer weekends. Car Park Entry/Parking: $4 (weekday); $5 (weekends/ holidays); Bus: $15 (all times) Parking & Boat Launching: $8 (weekday); $9 (weekends/ holidays). Swimming ages 3 to 12: $2 (weekday); $3.00 (weekends/holidays). Swimming ages 13 & over: $3 (weekday); $4 (weekends/holidays) Seasonal swim, launch, and annual parking passes available for discounted rates. 16 lakeannalife.com 2011 LABP Open 7 Days A Week 8am until Sunset Camping • Cabins • Boat Ramp • Canoeing Visitor's Center • Picnic Area •Youth Accessible Fishing Platform Year Round Programs • Seasonal Swimming Beach & Snack Bar Lake Anna State Park Almost 3,000 acres and 15 miles of trails to explore! 540.854.5503 www.virginiastateparks.gov lakeannalife.com 2011 17 30 Lake Anna Life Mu Lake Anna has many wonderful and whism Here are some you might want to try this year. Kids Outdoors Lake Anna Life Magazine and the businesses of the Lake Anna area welcome you warmly and wish a memorable and fun visit. Here are some suggestions for you to try during your stay. Be sure and visit us online at www.lakeannlife.com and let us know how many you did! History Food & Drink Z Relaxing Feed the famously hungry carp and shop for fishing tackle at Fish Tales at Anna Point. Fish Tales 540.895.5900. Z Rent a lakefront home and invite your friends to experience the Lake Anna Life. Dockside Realty 540.895.9400. Lake Anna Realty 540.894.8888. Dinner on the deck at Anna Cabana (where the sunset view is great, too!) 540.895.4022. Enjoy the atmosphere and the shrimp and oyster special while sitting under the boar’s head at Tavern On The Rail. Listen for the train while enjoying the Train Wreck dessert. 540.872.7245. Rent a pontoon boat and find your own perfect spotwatercraft on Lake Anna. Rent personal from First First Mates 540.895.0083. Sturgeon Creek Mates at Anna Point Marina.MaFirst rina 540.895.5095. Mates 540.895.0083 Order Nuclear Fries and a Hawaiian Burger on a Tuesday at Ally’s. 540.894.4440. Taste Do the Polar Bear Plunge on January 1. See Lake Anna Life Facebook site for more information. Z Boat to The Sandbar or The Bahamas and enjoy lake life with friends. See the GMCO Lake Anna Pro Series Map or stop by Lake Anna Outfitters for directions. Combine your visit with the Louisa Wine Festival to be held October 15 at Mineral’s Walton Park. [email protected] or visit www.louisawinefestival.com. 2011 Wildlife Book a second floor room at The Lighthouse Inn at High Point Marina, dock your boat in front and relax. Lighthouse Inn 540.895.5249. Enjoy a glass of Lake Anna Winery Chateau Franc while watching the long view sunset from the down lake region. Lake Anna Winery 540.895.5085 18 lakeannalife.com s Join the Lake Anna Paddling Club for their annual Moonlight Paddle. 540.894.3540. www.lakeannakayakclub. blogspot.com. Pick up Subway sandwiches and rent kayaks to paddle and picnic in the quiet coves along Lake Anna State Park. Subway 540.894. LKA Outfitters 540.894.3540. Start Now if Y ust-Dos msical traditions. r... e wine, rent a home, battle tube, polar bear plunge, shop and paddleboard. Z Shop for Lake Anna shirts, stickers and more at Lake Anna Outfitters. 540.894.3540. “Battle” Tubing with two towables. Lake Country Boating Store. 540.895.5575. Attend an event at the Lake Anna Winery like the Renaissance Faire or any of the outdoor concerts. Lake Anna Winery 540.895.5085. Go horseback riding with your children at Easy Keeper Farm. 540.748.2288. www.easykeeperfarm.com. s See the sun rise while fishing for a Hat Trick of largemouth bass, striper and crappie with a fishing guide. McCotter’s Lake Anna Guide Service 540.894.9144. Attend a performance the Louisa Arts Center.212 Fredericksburg Ave., Louisa, Virginia 23093. 540.967.2200. 877.774.ARTS. continued on page 22 You Want to Check All 30 Off Your List of To-Do's for 2011. lakeannalife.com 2011 19 "Join us for one of our special events this season, a personal wine tasting or just an evening out with someone special." - Jeff Heidig, Lake Anna Winery Join Us On Facebook! Weddings • Special Events • Tours Open Year Round Wed. - Sun. 540 895.5085 www.lawinery.com Coming Events Try Our Award-Winning Wines. 20 lakeannalife.com 2011 Summer In The Vineyard - June 11 Independence Day Celebration - July 1 Cajun Zydeco July 9 5621 Courthouse Road Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Visit our website for more great winery weekend events. Come Experience Premiere Camping Our familyare lodgesnd bra for new11! 20 At Lake Anna with We Welcome RV and Tent Campers! Convenience Store • 50-Wet Slips • Boat Ramps • Hot Showers • Game Room Playground • Great Rental Cabins • Beach/Swimming • Mini Golf We Can Also Host Your Civic Event, Family Reunion, Wedding & Reception and Private Celebration in our Air-Conditioned, 250-person Capacity Building. 540.894.4744 www.christopherruncampground.com Located on Lake Anna at 6478 Zachary Taylor Highway, Mineral, VA 23117, 6.5 miles North of Mineral on Route 522 lakeannalife.com 2011 21 LKA Life Must-Dos Z Get your Sunday paper, coffee and enjoy a country breakfast creation from Dickinson’s Store 540.894.5769 Enjoy an ice cream cone on the deck at Elk Creek Country Store. 540.872.3275. s s Go to Lake Anna State Park and hike the Railroad Trestle Trail. Lake Anna State Park Information Center. 540.854.6245. Rental a pontoon boat from WakeMakers 540.538.7547, First Mates 540.895.0083 or Sturgeon Creek Marina 540.895.5095. Go on an eagle-watching quest. Bald eagles nest in the upper North Anna near Cave’s Point and on Cooling Pond Three near Bones Island. Visit Hunter’s Landing and launch your boat at the only public ramp on the upper Pamunkey Branch of the lake and enjoy “Wakeboard Alley”. 540.854.5657. Go on a Lake Anna Monster hunt. Don’t forget the flashlights and a big net! Go on a guided kayak tour into The Sanctuary portion of the upper North Anna and be amazed and what you see in this remote section of the lake. Lake Anna Outfitters. 540.894.3540. The Lake Anna Business Partnership's Vegas Night event will be held October 1. Designing & Building LKA Dreams! LKA TM Lake Anna, VA CONTRACTING Building Quality Homes Since 1982. CLASS A BUILDER HOMES • ADDITIONS • EXCAVATIONS 540.894.3457 [email protected] 544 Moody Town Rd., Bumpass,VA 23024 22 lakeannalife.com 2011 20011 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Ruther Glen, VA 22546 Try sushi or sashimi for the first time at The Asian Café. 540.894.9899. Rent a paddleboard. Lake Anna Outfitters 540.894.3540. Z Z Attend the Lake Anna Businesss Partnership Vegas Night Fundraiser October 1. www.visitlakeanna.org. Shop Lake Anna during the Lake Anna Business Partnership Christmas Open House Weekend, November 26-27. www. visitlakeanna.org. Join Online and enjoy direct, to your door delivery! Each month we carefully hand-select one or two bottles of wine from around the state just for our members so you can savor a variety of Virginia’s best! Our monthly shipments are a great way to try new wines and also make a fine gift. There are no membership fees, just the cost of the wine each month. Ice cream on the porch at Elk Creek Country Store. 1.800.826.0534 www.vawineclub.com lakeannalife.com 2011 23 For group 2011 24 lakeannalife.com tickets & info Call 540.967.0944 "Only The Sunset Covers Lake Anna Better." Use your smart phone for quick access to our website. We're Your Lake Anna & Central Virginia Team Of Experts... Over 50 Years Sales Experience. Dana Isaac 540.661.2166 Greg Isaac 540.661.2019 Ken Isaac 540.661.6900 www.lakeannalongandfoster.com 5736 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, Virginia 22551 lakeannalife.com 2011 25 PRECISION TRANSMISSION & Auto Repairs Auto or Trailer Trouble? We Can Help.... Located within 15 minutes from most of Lake Anna! Virginia State Inspections Tire Sales • Towing 540 872.3036 36 Fredericks Hall Road Bumpass, VA 23024-9997 We'll Get You On The Water And Keep You Going All Year! Anna's Marine Center 1855 New Bridge Road, Mineral, VA 23117 Just one mile from the Rt. 208 Bridge in Louisa! www.annasmarinecenter.com • 540.894.9222 26 lakeannalife.com 2011 "I've bought 11 Nitros from these guys and can recommend them highly to you!" Guide C.C. McCotter Wayne's Heating & Cooling Serving the Lake Anna Area Let Us Keep That Lakehouse Cool in the Summer and Warm in the Winter. "Quality with Integrity." Louisa, VA 540.967.1306 www.wayneshvac.com Thinking of buying or selling? Get moving with Kate! Kate Elim REALTOR® We Build Custom Homes at Lake Anna. • Vacation Homes from under $200,000. • Custom, Resort & Vacation Homes. • Custom Design Services. • Turnkey, Fixed Cost Pricing. • Free website for your homebuilding project! Call 703.447.5930 www.aehomesllc.com Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia 540-226-1964 cell To view current listings, please visit... www.LakeAnnaCountry.com www.LakeAnna-RealEstate.com (blog) [email protected] (email) Dockside Realty 540-895-9400 lakeannalife.com 2011 27 Living The Lake House Dream LAKE ANNA LIFE BUILDING YOUR LAK 28 lakeannalife.com 2011 Lake Anna residents Sandy and Dave Boardway bought their KE ANNA DREAM HOME A home is your heart... your haven, and when most people describe their LKA dream home, water is almost always the unifying element. A A Lake Anna lake home is about views, spectacular sunsets, great outdoor and indoor spaces for entertaining friends and family, quiet corners, calming colors and décor. You get to choose your creature comforts from the most modern of styles to traditional elements, and you can go grand with a lakeside estate in a hidden cove with winding landscaped pathways, or casually comfortable with a beautiful log or cedar home tucked into the woods. There are a myriad of models and styles in between all with their own unique personalities ready to be home, or that much needed retreat. Whether it's a lakefront or lake access community, neighbors become friends, family gatherings become mainstays, and peace and tranquility are the mode of everyday life. Of course, one of the best things about lake living is that you can be on the water in moments and enjoy four seasons of fun, activities and entertainment! Most residents will tell you that living in a lake house is like being on vacation every day of the year. You wake to birds chirping, the sun rising, and the perfect life where home IS heaven. If you don’t own a lake home yet, but dream of lake living, these pages are filled with visual ideas, custom homes, landscaping treatments and loads of resources to stimulate possibilities and give you contacts to aid you on your path to lakeside living. What's even better, a lake front home or lake access home can be CONSIDERABLY LESS than what you'd invest in a coastal home or oceanfront property. r lot in the 80's and built their dream home and boat house over the years. lakeannalife.com 2011 29 Tips From LKA Builders... Living The Lake House Dream LAKE ANNA LIFE By Megan Smiley 30 lakeannalife.com 2011 Those fantasizing about where to build their dream home would be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful and lovely location than Lake Anna. With its clear, clean waters, abundant restaurants, plenty of year-round recreational activities and both a resort and full time community atmosphere, Lake Anna is one of Virginia’s most well-loved areas. And, fortunately for people seeking to move here, there is also a multitude of talented and skilled builders on hand to assist in constructing that dream home. Lake Anna Life asked some of these innovative people to offer a few tips to those contemplating a move to the lake. Keeping your budget in mind and being realistic about the potential cost, is one of the first things Lake Anna Dream Home contractors suggest doing when considering building your project. In some cases, it is even suggested that a future Lake Anna homeowner choose a builder, at least on a preliminary basis, BEFORE knowing the price of construction. “It may seem counterintuitive to choose a builder [first]…,” said George Daily of AE Homes LLC, “[but] the planning process is dynamic and having a builder’s assistance from the outset will save time, effort and money.” Daily recommends choosing a builder with whom the client feels comfortable, and who understands the vision and will impartially advise of options throughout the planning process. Jay Scheurenbrand of Plum Tree Properties notes his company works with clients from the initial meeting almost weekly to ensure their vision is realized every step of the way. “Good communication from the start is the way we do business. Establishing this link to the customer saves time and money for everyone.” It is also important to make sure that the builder is, indeed, a custom builder, according to Jean Martin of Southern Image. “Custom builders very seldom build the same home plan repeatedly nor use the same products. That is because the customer primarily designs custom homes. Take a good look at the builder’s portfolio and the homes they have built,” suggests Martin. Experience is also a key component, according to Daily, whose company has 40 years of “real world” construction knowledge under its belt. “Real world experience prepares the builder to appropriately react to or anticipate the myriad of issues that can affect the quality of work, time of construction and, ultimately, the client’s satisfaction,” added Daily. Not all of the work should fall on the builder, however. In order to ensure that client’s home is getting built to his or her standards, the customer must be heavily involved in the process, advised Dennis Schultz of LKA Contracting, Inc. From making color choices, to selecting fixtures and flooring, the client must work closely with the builder to share their vision. “Continuous communication and site visits by the client ensure the project gets done to their satisfaction,” Schultz said. Additionally, good planning goes a long way in helping to keep the project on course. “Making a lot of changes gets costly to both the builder and homeowner,” said Joe Pine of Joe Pine Builders Inc. This is why it is also important point to consider is what kind of home can and should be put on the land that a customer owns. “The neighborhood, location and topography all play important roles,” said Andy Datesman of Robinson Construction, which has been in business almost 30 years. Daily agreed, noting that the size and shape of the lot, location of the drain field and well, coupled with the type and size of surrounding trees and elevation of the foundation are also factors that affect the square footage and shape of the home. “However, intelligent and creative grading may sometimes overcome conflicts,” added Daily, who suggested that potential dream home owners consult with a builder BEFORE even purchasing a property in order to ensure that the home they want can be built on the land they own. The land and the home should complement one another, and, if well done, will enhance the value of each other, noted Daily. Shultz suggests visiting each side of the lake, renting a house or two, or staying with some friends who own a lake home as a means to figuring out what kind of property to purchase. “Pay special attention to what your needs continued on page 32 FULL PAGE - 900 SPARTAN HOMES lakeannalife.com 2011 31 LAKE ANNA LIFE Living The Lake House Dream 32 lakeannalife.com 2011 versus what your wants are, and work with a builder that will work with you on the details and offer suggestions on where it makes the most sense to spend a few extra dollars [and] where dollars can be saved,” he said. One way to save money and the environment is to use energy efficient materials and to take advantage of each supply to its fullest capacity. For instance, adding air sealing and foam insulation will downsize the HVAC, which will be less expensive to install and maintain, noted Shultz. “[This will] likely pay for itself through tax credits and energy consumption in just a few years,” he said. Schultz also suggested using good quality windows, and taking advantage of the sizes of rooms. “For example, carpets mostly come in 12 and 15 [foot] widths, so it makes sense to try to design a room to those sizes for no seams,” he explained. Daily suggested using low E window glazing, and tank less water heaters as a means of saving energy and money. While the Lake Anna area builders come with a multitude of advice on what a potential dream home buyer should do, they also have a few “don’ts” to administer. “Do not try to save money on… items like insulation and heating and cooling,” said Shultz. “Focus on the long term quality of the home construction and leave room for expansion.” Also, stay focused, says Daily. “Our defined home building process helps keep the client ‘on track,’ avoids wasted efforts, speeds the construction process, and reduces cost,” he said. “Staying on track is key.” For her part, Martin recommends that the client avoid choosing the cheapest option, as that usually means a sacrifice in quality. “If you are expecting a ‘turnkey’ job, do not take the contractor with the lowest bid,” she said. “Chances are the contractor has left something out of your estimate. Make sure that you have complete contract and specification sheet with allowances so that you know what type of quality you will be getting. Remember no one wants to work for free, so a low-ball price means cutting corners that may not be in your best interest.” You also will want to consider other craftsmen that add lifestyle elements to a dream home like patios, walkways, fire pits, outdoor kitchen, terraces and really anything you can dream up. Curtis Stepien of C3 Concrete is a concrete specialist that offers an alternative to block or paver construction. "You'd be amazed at what I can do with decorative, patterned concrete and the finishes available." Kevin Staymates of Evergreen Landscaping is one of the lake's top irrigation and stacked block designers. He notes it's critical to work on at least irrigation BEFORE you finalize your plans for your dream home. "Having a wonderful home and a yard that looks awful is not good. We can make sure this never happens." Eric Harlow also builds and designs block and paver creations and knows how much value these can add to any home. "I've had clients that sold their homes because of the patio, walkway to the dock or sitting areas we made for them." Taking these bits of advice may help ensure that your dream home becomes a reality with minimal issues or concerns along the way. At least, that is what these local builders are hoping. Memories last a lifetime, so it is very important to us to provide an enjoyable experience from start to finish. Spartan Homes owner Eric D. Henry sums up the Lake Anna dream home experience, "It really comes down to trust. Customers come to us and trust us to deliver on their dreams and our promise of fulfilling them. It's a big honor when you have someone entrust you with their job and I know Spartan, like the other builders around LKA this lake take it very seriously." Southern IMAGE Design Builders 540.872.5900 We build cottage-style, custom homes around Lake Anna and invite you to meet with us to discuss your dreams. www.southernimagebuilders.com Explore the Possiblities With Me. N E W Gary Griffith 540.273.7399 gary@explore lakeanna.com S www.ExploreLakeAnna.com 1.800.242.LAKE (5253) or 540.895.9400 lakeannalife.com 2011 33 Living The Lake House Dream LAKE ANNA LIFE Why Choose A Local Real Lake Anna is also home to a host of real estate professionals who know our miles and miles of shoreline and communities better than anyone. Whether you're searching for a lot, an existing home, or planning to build your own, the realtors featured throughout our pages are a big part of the Lake Anna Life family. Each offer a unique perspective and their own brand of expertise to ease your way. What is the value of working with a Local Expert? Often it can make a very big difference. First of all it is important to determine what a Local Expert is. Here is one definition: “A person with a high degree of skill in, or knowledge of, a certain subject.” Given that definition, a Lake Anna Local Expert Realtor® would be one that has considerable knowledge of the real estate market at Lake Anna. Some agents believe they can do a great job for their clients no matter how far away they search. That is often not the case. There was a time that we would work with a REALTOR® that lived and worked where we wanted to sell or buy. We looked in the newspaper or the Yellow Pages or we learned by word of mouth. With the advent of the Internet things began to change. Most people, upwards of 83%, begin their search on the Web. What that means is they may end up contacting an agent that does not necessarily work in the area that they are interested in. Not only might they not work in that area…they may not know much or anything about it. Recently an agent from Northern Virginia was showing buyers at Lake Anna. Although he had never been here before he was not hesitant at all. When asked where he generally works he replied, “Everywhere”. There are agents that work “everywhere”. By “everywhere” they literally mean everywhere in a very large geographical area, an area that could take in hundreds of miles. That might very well include areas where they have never been yet they go there to show property in neighborhoods they have never set eyes on. What would be a better idea for a buyer or seller? My suggestion is that they contact a REALTOR® that is not only familiar with the area where they want to buy or sell but is actually a “local expert” in that area. By that I mean the agent preferably lives and works there. That enables them to know a great deal of information that they can share with their clients. This information can be very useful in making a well considered decision. Helping buyers find the right property at Lake Anna involves more than can be found on the Internet. MRIS gives agents plenty of specific information about the properties. Tax records are on county sites (also made available through MRIS), anyone can certainly Google Lake Anna and see what they can learn about it from blogs and recent newspaper stories, and can go there and drive around. What then is missing? These are some of the things that an agent unfamiliar with Lake Anna and out of the area will not necessarily know and understand: • That there are two parts of the lake and what are all the differences between the 145 acres, 39 Waterfront Lots 68 Water View & Access Lots Common Area with Boat Ramp & Boardwalk All Water Access Lots Come with Boat Slip! Come See One Of Lake Anna's Premier Communities With Amazing Lots! I N C O R P O R AT E D 34 lakeannalife.com 2011 [email protected] www.banerealestate.com 804.730.3100 o 804.337.2212 c ltor? By Kate Elim, Realtor two. • Of the more than 120 communities which ones are on which side of the lake. • Which areas of the lake have deeper water? • Of those 120 communities which ones have stricter covenants and which ones have virtually no rules and regulations. • What kind of things are there to do around there. • What types of events take place at Lake Anna? • Are there many clubs and organizations that I can join? • How far is the closest medical facility? • Are there many other full-time residents living here? These are among the many things that a good, experienced local Realtor® has learned through years of working and living at Lake Anna. Hopefully the numerous things that local agents have learned about our market over time do not seem insignificant to you. They are important to buyers. We discuss these and many things with them and they prove to be things that buyers are keen on learning. Once an exchange of information begins the more buyers seem to want to know. Certainly if an out-of-area agent wants to take a lot of time researching these things they will have the answers sooner or later but it will take quite some time. What is the purpose of doing that? Why hire someone that has a learning curve ahead of them when there are others close at hand that can provide the type of service you need? Lake Anna Realtors® have gained the necessary experience working in this market and have learned the things that make them local experts. It makes sense to put that expertise to work for you whether you are buying or selling property in the Lake Anna area. We list the most homes, we sell the most homes, and we attract the most buyers looking for Lake Anna area property. We are the LOCAL SPECIALISTS. LKA Buying or Selling at Lake Anna? Call your Local Lake Anna Experts. Ron Gentry Kathy Gardner 540-535-6441 540-535-6439 [email protected] [email protected] www.LakeAnna-PropertiesForSale.com We Get It Done With The Deepest Pile Driver On The Lake... Down To 50' Of Water! Bulkheads Docks Boathouses Class A License Insured Stacy Ramsey - Captain of the "The Enterprise" Our pilings are guaranteed for life not to move! Sturdy, Reliable & Sure 540.220.0290 [email protected] C3 Concrete Walkways Overlays Driveways Patios Pool Decks C3 Concrete QUARTER "We built our reputation on quality" 540 872.5439 Snap here with your smart phone to visit our website. Dockside Realty 4634 Courthouse Rd, Mineral, VA 23117 www.c3concrete.com See our work online at lakeannalife.com 2011 35 LAKE ANNA LIFE Living The Lake House Dream 36 lakeannalife.com 2011 Spectacular Docks & Boathouses I If you think about where you spend most of your time when you are at your lake house what comes to mind? Most folks want to get on the water or at least be in or near it as much as possible. A dock is the interface between the shore and water so you will be spending quite a bit of time on this structure during your time at the lake. That being said, a dock can be a simple straight line that leads out into the lake and functions as a parking space for your boat or it can be an elaborate, inspiring structure designed to accommodate and encourage social gatherings. Many years ago most docks were of the former style. Today’s structures have evolved into much more, though and spectacular is the word used when we describe many. Few homeowners build just a dock any more. A boathouse with a boatlift and covered storage is the standard these days. Those with extended vision plan for screened porches, roll up bar windows, tiki huts, stairways into the water, multiple boat storage areas, sun decks, bulkheads, built-in furniture and even slides. Before you start to consider your dream dock and boat house, you’ll want to find a contractor that is qualified to build it and one that you like enough to hire. Stacy Ramsey of SE Enterprises is one such contractor. A tireless worker, skilled craftsman and owner of state-of-the-art equipment, Ramsey has distinguished himself among Lake Anna marine contractors. He knows how to make clients’ visions come to reality and knows his materials. His main craft “The Enterprise” is a massive, red, dock building machine complete with pile driver equipped to drive a piling into 50-feet of water. “I’ve studied the marine engineering necessary to properly set pilings in extreme depths and done so successfully in many places around the lake,” notes Ramsey. This LKA dock builder notes before you start designing, it’s a good idea to carefully consider the site of the project. “You’ll have to contact Dominion and have the site/plan reviewed and approved, so you want it to be properly planned and placed to avoid delays, sight line issues and other geologic problems that could affect construction.” Next, Ramsey says to consider the materials you want your contractor to use on the job. “These days you have a number of choices. We use a number of materials including pressure treated lumber, composites, IPE hardwood, Azek PVC, even metal.” Once you’ve determined site and materials, the fun part of the design begins. Certainly taking a boat ride around the lake and looking at other spectacular boathouses is helpful. Many contractors will have a “look book” of their projects for review. Existing design elements that the contractor is already familiar building can be incorporated into your idea. Boat docks come in many sizes, but really only two kinds – fixed and floating. Lake Anna’s water levels rarely fluctuate; so fixed docks are the most popular. Floating docks can be constructed of metal and bridged to the shore with flyways, especially on steep properties. Regardless of type, you will still need pilings. Ed Kuhne of Lake Breeze Enclosures works with the lake’s dock builders to create living and playing spaces on docks (as well as decks) enclosed by screens or windows. This conversion plan is great for homeowners that already have a dock or deck, but would like to get more use from it. “We can create a place for you to enjoy nearly year round, out of the elements with just about all the comforts of home. Clients have added flat screens, bars, seating areas and more to make wonderful football rooms on their docks and porches,” explains Kuhne. A spectacular boathouse begins with a spectacular plan, but it won’t go any further unless you work with a great contractor. Consider this choice carefully when you’re ready to create yours. Alpha Land Surveys, LLC Affordable & On Time Scott E. Leiffer, LS Boundary, Mortgage & ALTA Surveys Family Division & Subdivisions Topographic Surveys & Site Plans Construction Staking, Building Setback Verification & Drainfield Location 540.894.4061 // [email protected] Let the breeze in and keep the weather and pollen out, with a Lake Breeze porch or boathouse conversion. Before After DECKS SCREEN PORCHES BOATHOUSE PARTY ROOMS Lake Breeze Enclosures, Inc. www.lbenclosures.com Call for a free estimate. 540.894.3271 lakeannalife.com 2011 37 Summer Splendor You'll want to be in the water nearly all day from mid-June through September. No, Lake Anna Doesn't Close After Labor Day.... 4-Season Activity Gu While Lake Anna is best known for it’s sensational spring and summer activities, the fall and winter are also rewarding times to be here. Here are Lake Anna Life’s favorite activities according to season. We hope you are already enjoying them or plan to do so soon. Spring This is the time for renewal and an early season visit. The lake bursts with spring blossoms in April and the fishing season kicks into high gear. Anglers vastly outnumber any other user group on the weekends. On some weekdays you might not see five boats, though. They come from all over the east coast to try their luck on Anna with guides and by themselves. Fishing tournaments are held each weekend. The weigh-ins are exciting to attend even if you aren’t fishing. Kayaking is excellent now all over the lake due to the nonexistent boat traffic. Paddle into the remote headwaters of the lake to view nesting great blue herons or explore a quiet State Park creek where purple martins and kingfishers nest naturally. The State Park trail system is all yours and the cool air and budding trees make for a refreshing outing. Try and count the shades of green. We think you’ll give up at 50. Spring Break LKA style in a lakefront rental home has become a popular alternative to for many folks around the region. If you are here around the Memorial Day holiday, enjoy the official in-season kick-off and the mountain laurel blossoms, especially in the mid lake region. 38 lakeannalife.com 2011 Summer The possibilities are now endless with over 14 hours of sunlight. Yes, it’s hot, but that’s what makes the Lake Anna Life so great now. It’s time to get in the water and stay there all day. Load up the runabout, waverunner, or pontoon and get moving. Visiting your friends’ docks or rentals, pick them up at the marina and just go cruising, it’s all good when you have a boat in the summer on Lake Anna. Don’t have a boat? Call early so you can rent one and join the flotilla. Wakeboarding, waterskiing and tubing are what you do behind the boat as you travel from place to place. Our clear and clean water is ideal. The hundreds of coves offer flat water even on busy weekends. Now is the time for dock parties and visits to The Sandbar. The Spring At some point in early April Lake Anna blooms. It's time to for Spring Break LKA style. Fishing is great now. The Su Wakebo Sandbar fireworks Fall Color Peak leaf season occurs in late October into early November. Boating and kayaking now are truly spectacular. uide Winter Hardy For those that go, the fish are biting. There are fireworks, bonfires and some great dining options for after hours socials. Restaurants often fill up on the weekends, so be sure and make a reservation. beauty of fall around the lake. This is also the time for campfires and crisp evenings on the dock. While activities abound, the summer pace slows now as the change of season arrives. Fall When does the fall officially start on LKA? Locals say the season officially ends after Labor Day, however, true fall probably starts sometime in mid-October when the first hickory turns yellow and the sugar maples flame red. Lakers know the shoreline along the State Park just up from the Route 208 marinas is breathtaking starting in late October. The best way to view it is by boat or kayak. This one mile stretch looks like a painting during the peak leaf view period. The contrast of deep green Virginia pine and multi-colored hardwoods is something you cannot take your eyes from. Join the Lake Anna Kayak Club for a Fall Foliage Paddle (see Calendar of Events on page 70) or make plans to rent a boat because this is one of the most beautiful times of the year on LKA. The Lake Anna Winery’s annual Oktoberfest is a popular event held October 15. The Louisa Wine Festival held October 15 is another reason to reserve that rental home. Enjoy the bounty and Winter This is the time of year Lakers enjoy most. Those lucky enough to live full time around Lake Anna know the winter has its own beauty. Anna is nearly empty save for the anglers that once again have the run of the lake. All is quiet as the air temperature drops and a quiet winter blanket covers the region. Snows are infrequent and often greeted with sledding parties and bonfires. Rent a home now and enjoy excellent striper, bass and crappie fishing as well as off season, low rates. Fireside snuggling, both indoor and outdoor, is a top wintertime activity now. Exterior fire pits and dock chimneas are frequent gathering spots. Thanksgiving on Lake Anna has become popular with realtors offering special rates for the holiday. A Christmas Open House Weekend sponsored by the Lake Anna Business Partnership makes shopping locally easy and fun. ummer oarding, paddleboarding, The ar, dock parties, kayaking and ks are all part of this season. The Fall After Labor Day the lake quiets and the fall color builds. Many enjoy Thanksgiving at the lake. The Winter Where did everyone go? Enjoy the solitude and tremendous fishing now. It's Holiday Open House time. lakeannalife.com 2011 39 540.854.7000 [email protected] There's Only One Name To Remember If You Need Gutter & Roof Work... TIMMY HEIN Timmy Hein "Put me on your QUARTER job and you won't be disappointed." - Timmy Hein www.evergreenservicesva.com Outdoor Living Spaces & Kitchens Hardscape Design and Certified Installation Retaining Walls / Erosion / Drainage Control Landscape Design and Installation Irrigation Systems and Installation Landscape Lighting and Installation 540 894.9341 5" & 6" Gutters Leaf Guard • Siding Replacement Windows Flags • Kites • T-Shirts • Decorative Items Best Selection of Gifts On Lake LKA TM Lake Anna, VA Outfitters Great Gift Ideas @High Point Marina 540.894.3540 & Artwork lakeannalife.com 40 lakeannalife.com 2011 Kayak Sales & Rentals This Season, Join Us At Lake Anna's Base Camp For Adventure! r See ou ffer o n coupo ge 63 on pa cial for Speason Off-Se s! Rate HIGH POINT MARINA Non-Ethanol Gas On & Off The Water • Boat Slips • Boat Valet Service Boat Sheds • Fishing Guides • Picnic Pavilion 540.895.5249 www.highpointmarina.com The Boat Shop @ High Point Marina 540 895.9616 "We Sell & Service two top brands of wakeboarding boats as well as carry wakeboarding accessories." - Owner, Rob Boyer at High Point Marina 1/12 - 90 Bob Toler 23 Years Experience Outboard Repairs Electronics Installation Powerhead & Lower Unit Rebuilds 804.647.7966 [email protected] Lighthouse Inn The Lake's Only Waterfront Motel Waterfront Motel Rooms with Boat Slips Open M-F, 9-5. Sat. 9-3. Bob's Mobile Marine The Call 540.894.5249 for reservations See Our Coupon On pg. 63 LKA TM Lake Anna, VA Outfitters Kayak Sales & Rentals Guided Kayak Tours Paddling Accessories LKA Wear & Gifts at High Point Marina Scan with your smart phone for rates & more! 540.894.3540 • [email protected] lakeannalife.com 2011 41 Guided Fishing T Good Guides Await Your Visit M Many folks come to Lake Anna to fish. Hundreds of coves beckon and the fishing is good enough to draw folks from all over the east coast. There are largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish and more just waiting to introduce themselves to you. However, with so many fishy-looking spots and water to cover, you can quickly get overwhelmed by the options and underwhelmed by your results. Hiring a fishing guide for a day might just be the answer to years of enjoyment. There are many reasons to hire a guide. You might be a tournament angler looking for an edge for your next event or 42 lakeannalife.com 2011 season. You might be a father with a child that has shown interest in fishing, but it’s not for you or time just doesn’t permit you to foster the activity. Family reunions, weddings, bachelor parties, vacation activities; these are all activities that go better with fishing and fishing guides tend to make the memories more about fish caught than how many lures you lost or how many lines were tangled. Lake Anna offers a number of guided fishing options. We penned this article to help you understand more about what to expect from a good fishing guide and how to connect with one. Generally speaking, good guide services are local folk that have taken the time to learn their subjects – the lake and their clients. This takes a minimum of five years fishing and four years Fish On! Trips MLAGS photos Guides can put you on fish while teaching you how to find them. apprentice guiding. Even the most senior guides on the lake will admit to learning part of the craft from another angler at one point in their early careers. When looking for a guide, start by researching guide services that offer multiple guides and trip options. This usually means that other guides want to be associated with this level of professionalism, competence and understand a standard of customer service. Most guides can be reached and trips booked via a website and email. Websites can be a good way to see what guides have caught (and not caught). Blogs are a recent addition to guide marketing. Check them to see daily recaps of what’s biting. Be sure and contact a guide via phone, too and see if you like what you hear. Complete guide services often include a number of personnel options that specialize in fishing trips for multiple species. For example, you wouldn’t want to book an eighthour bass fishing trip for two seven-year-olds, however they would do just fine on a four-hour crappie fishing trip. Boats are an important part of a guide’s toolbox. Be sure and ask what kind and size boat they are using for trips. Too small a rig and you will be uncomfortable. Ask, too, how long they have been guiding on Lake Anna. Fishing is different than guiding, so be sure and establish this fact. It’s completely proper to ask about a guide’s background during the pre-trip “interview”. You must also understand that the best fishing guides do much more than put clients on fish. These are actually fishing gurus that are excellent teachers with plenty of patience, focus and a sense of enthusiasm you’ll catch after a trip. Good guides like people and listening to the stories that come to them each day. We wish you good fishing and send us pics of your successes! LKA Lake Anna Fishing Resources For you do-it-yourselfers you are only as good as the information you have, right? Fishing is no different. With all the technology and internet sources of fishing tips, you might wonder where the best is for Lake Anna when trying to go fishing in your own boat. Start with the best map of the Lake made - the GMCO Pro Series version. It's waterproof and tear resistant. Also check guide blogs if you want to know what’s biting and where in nearly real time. Savvy guides now blog about each day they are on the water. You can read how they are catching bass, striper and crappie and often glean enough information to target the right area at the right time. Emailing a guide for information is a possibility, but realize if you are not a paying customer you are asking for free product. You might also call one of the marinas around the lake and ask them what lures are selling and how the fish are biting. Marinas want your business and willingly provide fishing information via the phone (when it’s not too busy) as well as through their own websites, often with links to guides. Good Lake Anna Fishing Resources: www.mccotterslakeanna.blogspot.com • www.highpointmarina.com ccbassnguideservice.blogspot.com • www.annapoint.com • www.sturgeoncreekmarina.com • gmco pro series map lakeannalife.com 2011 43 When You Visit, Fish With The Anna Experts! McCotter's Lake Anna Guide Service Choose from six guides with over 100 years experience! CRAPPIE BASS STRIPER Snap here to see more great fishing pics from LKA! To book your adventure call: 540.894.9144 www.mccotterslakeanna.com [email protected] 44 lakeannalife.com 2011 What Fish Are In The Lake? And How To Catch Them... L no matter what region of the lake you Lake Anna teems with fish. There are target. over 20 species that call LKA home. Striped bass are stocked annually Everything from the tiny darter to the into the lake. This stock comes from mighty grass carp has its favorite place the Roanoke River out of the Virginia to hide. The water is clean and fertile Department of Game & Inland Fisheries’ so there’s plenty to eat and enough Brookneal Fish Hatchery. In 2010, Lake places to hide so that the fishery stays Anna received nearly 150,000 fingerling in balance. stripers. By 2013 they will be at the The most popular species anglers legal minimum size limit of 20”. This is pursue include the largemouth bass, the a coveted sportfish for it’s fight and it’s striped bass (rockfish or striper) and the reputation as fine table fare. You may black crappie. Other commonly caught keep four fish per day. fish are the brown and channel catfish, Striper spawn in the upper reaches white perch, bluegills, red ear sunfish, of the lake as well as down at Dike III. long ear sunfish, green sunfish and chain Fishing near the banks or other shallow pickerel. water structure is best during the Largemouth bass have never been spawning period. stocked on the main lake but some After the spawn, the striper will Florida strain bass were introduced congregate in vast, hungry schools in many years ago on into the Cooling the mid lake region and readily accept Lagoons or private side of LKA. Natural your live bait and artificial offerings. By reproduction occurs at a rate high enough far the top lure in recent years for striper for recruitment of juvenile bass into the fishing has been a Toothache spoon. “catchable” range. The major spawning The fall and winter are excellent times months for Lake Anna largemouths are to visit the lake in pursuit of striper. April and May. The cooler water and dense baitfish In the early spring, anglers do well concentrations attract hungry schooled using suspending jerkbaits off points near striper and the topwater action can be spawning coves in the mid and down lake regions. Spinnerbaits are another choice for early spring fishing in the up lake region. Sight fishing is excellent on Lake Anna once the bass begin to spawn. Skillful presentation and patience is an angler's most valuable tool during this time of year. When the bass are finished spawing in late May/early June a fantastic topwater bite Summer Striper... begins. You need to hit Fishing deep with live bait in the summer the banks each morning is a good way to catch dinner. fast-paced. Black crappie were also never stocked in the lake. These panfish are prolific spawners and have spread throughout the Anna over the years. They prefer brushy and weedy shallow areas during their spawning periods but have taken a keen liking to the many boathouses and docks that line the lake’s shoreline. There is no minimum size requirement for crappie, but most anglers do not keep any under 10”. You may keep 25 per day. During the spring time, crappie can be caught on docks, bridges, stumps and willow grass throughout the lake. The up lake region has more fish, but the average size is smaller. Tiny jigs on six-pound test line are the standard issue if you like to cast. Slip bobbers and minnows are great when you don't. Man-made Fish Structures created throughout the lake are also good places to find crappie after the spawn and during the winter time. LKA Ready for the Lake Anna life? Let me help you make the leap. Toni Yates Hat Trick... Largemouth bass, striper and crappie in one day is the LKA Hat Trick. Associate Broker Selling Lake Anna and the Surrounding Area Since 1996 (O) 540-895-5855 (C) 540-226-1686 LAKESIDE PROS www.lakeannainfo.com 5755 Courthouse Rd., Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Let Us Help You Add Water To Your Lifestyle! Betty Dunn Vance Dunn 540.273.8258 540.273.8267 Principal Broker Class A Builder Liz Wilson Crystal Norbeck Realtor Realtor 540.226.6475 540.223.0404 Dee Miller Realtor 540.845.5699 Toni Yates Associate Broker 540.226.1686 John Harmon Lil Conner Property Manager Associate Broker 540.903.2252 540.226.4888 Melissa Potter Shara Copeland Administrative Assistant Bookkeeper 5755 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Established as real estate leaders, our highly informed, detail-oriented specialists excel in connecting home buyers with the best selections of existing homes and with the best builders and communities for the ultimate lake living lifestyle. Lakeside Pros 540.898.5855 www.realtyworldlakeside.com lakeannalife.com 2011 45 How To Talk Like An LKA Local TM E Every place you go has a local dialect. It’s a way of pronouncing words. It’s special words to describe places. It’s confusing unless you know the code. Here we offer some tips on how to talk like an LKA local. LKA – Short for Lake Anna. Min-Rul – The Town of Mineral. Spot-See – Short for the mouthful that is Spotsylvania as in the County of. Lew-We-Sah – The Town or County of Louisa. The Sandbar – An underwater spit of sand located at the mouth of Gold Mine Creek were Lakers gather. The Bahamas – A series of beaches located behind the islands in Boggs Creek. The Volleyball Court – A volleyball net set up on weekends in the water at The Bahamas. Lake Anna Time – This is adjusted depending on the traffic on I-95, further adjusted about 10-15 minutes behind real time depending on who you meet and catch up with at the country store. New Bridge – The Rt. 208 Bridge. As in, “I waited for a half an hour at that darn light at New Bridge.” 46 lakeannalife.com 2011 Route 652 - Kentucky Springs Road. Up the ‘Monkey – The Pamunkey Branch of Lake Anna. As in, “We will be boating or fishing in the Pamunkey Branch of the lake.” The Graveyard – A section of the lake just into the North Anna with an underwater graveyard. Just the walls remain, no bodies. As in, “We’ll meet you at the Graveyard and then head up to The Sandbar.” Rose Valley Island – The tiny island with a tree on in the middle of the lake just into the North Anna River. As in, “Man we almost ran over Rose Valley Island.” The Splits – Where the North Anna and the Pamunkey Branch diverge and create two arms of Lake Anna. As in, “Which way do you go at The Splits to get to your dock?” ‘Boarding in the Creek – We will be wakeboarding in the back of Contrary Creek. Wakeboard Alley – The upper Pamunkey Branch. Fishermen tend to avoid this region on summer weekends. Partying in the Vines – We are attending one of the events at Lake Anna Winery. Need some Anna time – What you say at work at 3:30 on a Wednesday afternoon. Fat Sacs – Water filled ballast tanks on a wakeboard boat. As in, “Who needs more Fat Sacs when you have Bob?” Loading the line – The need to pull harder on the tow rope to get more pop for tricks. Biffing a Raley – Messing up a wakeboarding trick using a rail where your feet float behind you, putting you in the Superman position. As in, “My friend had internal bleeding from Biffing a Raley." Tantrum – A trip-flip wakeboarding trick in which you do a back flip by “tripping” over the wake. As in, “Did you see that tantrum?” Dockage – A term used to describe an all-weekend dock party. As in, “We had major dockage this over Memorial Day Weekend.” Artwork by Ashley Dickinson "Our family welcomes yours to LKA." - W.A. Dickinson ! n i g e B s e r u t e Anna Adven Where Lak Home Of Apparel Just add sunshine and we have everything you need! Gourmet Coffees Deli Beer Cave Groceries Beer • Wine • Newspapers • Magazines • Lottery • Gifts Located at the intersection of Rt. 522 and Rt. 208. 540.894.5769 5 minutes from the Lake! Call ahead and we'll have your order waiting. lakeannalife.com 2011 47 lake anna pe 20 quick questions w W.A. Dickinson Store Owner Lake Anna Legacy ote: LKA LifSetoreNwill Dickinson lake's first feature thee" scheduled "Beer Cavis summer to open th g brews from and offerin globe. around the 1. Full Name: Warren A. Dickinson 2. Age: 57 3. Birth place: Louisa County Medical Center, Louisa, Virginia 4. Family members: Wife: Bettye G., Son: Warren Ashley Dickinson II, Daughter: Tyler Cabell Dickinson 5. Where do you reside and how many years there? Windwood Coves since 1995 6. Please list your LKA business interests: Dickinson’s Store and Dickinsons Store Mini Storage L. C. 7. What brought you or your family to LKA? I was born and raised in Louisa County and grew up right where the store is today. After attending college in North Carolina, I returned home to work at North Anna Power Station in 1973 and began operating the family store in 1977. 8. Where do you see LKA in 10 years? I see this year as the beginning of a lot of growth for this area of the county. I believe it will become a major resort area for central Virginia. 9. If you could retire today and could any thing you want, what would you do? At this point in my life, I would like to travel and be able to enjoy my home and the lake without a lot of obligations. 10. Person you admire the most? My father: Curtis C. Dickinson. He was one of those rare persons that could do anything and had a lot of common sense and ability to enjoy life and love his family. 11. What do you see as the top issue to be resolved around LKA? My major concern is overcrowding and congestion; as in homes and traffic. 12. Describe your favorite day on LKA? Taking weekday boat rides and enjoying my children and their friends wakeboarding and wakeskating.. I enjoy driving the boat for them. 13. Why do you think folks are attracted to LKA? First of all, the beauty. Also, it’s accessibility from so many major urban areas. 14. What do you think the lake needs most? A venue that can be rented to accommodate large gatherings such as weddings and other large group events. 15. What's been the biggest positive change for you around the lake? The development of the Lake Anna Rescue Squad and the enhancement of the emergency medical staff by Louisa County. 16. What's been the biggest drawback? Capabilities of highways/roads to handle summer traffic and the dangerous conditions that develop when lake water level is low. 17. Where's your favorite place for dinner around LKA? My family and I enjoy the variety of foods offered by all the restaurants on the lake and we try to support all of them. 18. Fishing, jetskiing, wakeboarding or just sitting on the dock? I love sitting on my dock, that’s one of my favorites. I also enjoy being the boat driver when my children and their friends are wakeboarding. 19. When you have guests what do you plan for them? Usually a tour of the area that includes the lake if they are not familiar with the area and of course, weather permitting a boat ride. 20. How do you feel about the current state of development around LKA? I think it’s good and very well planned. 14. What do you think the lake needs most? "A venue that can be rented to accommodate large gatherings such as weddings and other large group events." W.A. Dickinson, Dickinson's Store 48 lakeannalife.com 2011 ersonalities with LKA™ trailblazers George O'Connell Dominion's Lake Anna Liason (Retired) Campbell Edenton Marina Owner Early Lake Anna Entrepreneur 1. Full Name: L. Campbell Edenton 2. Age: 76 3. Birth place: Glenore, VA 4. Family members: Six brothers and sisters, wife. 5. Where do you reside and how many years there? Next to Sturgeon Creek Marina for 55 years. 6. Please list your LKA business interests: Sturgeon Creek Marina. 7. What brought you or your family to LKA? Lake came to me in 1972. 8. If you could retire today and could any thing you want, what would you do? I am retired and working part time at the marina. I like to hunt. 9. Person you admire the most? Too many to single out one. 10. Why do you think folks are attracted to LKA? It's a beautiful lake with good fishing and boating. 11. What do you think the lake needs most? Some submerged grass to keep the water clean. 12. Where's your favorite place for dinner around LKA? Home. I seldom eat out. 13. Fishing, jetskiing, wakeboarding or just sitting on the dock? Operating heavy equipment and riding motorcycle. 1. Full Name - George D. O'Connell 2. Age - 62 3. Birth place - Richmond, Virginia 4. Family members - Doris (wife) Elizabeth and Nancy (daughters) 5. Where do you reside and how many years there? My family moved to Bumpass in November 1959 Doris and I built our home in 1981- 29 years on the home place. 6. Please list your LKA business interests. I worked for Dominion for 37 years and enjoyed all the various business. 7. What brought you or your family to LKA? LKA came to us in 1967. 8. Where do you see LKA in 10 years? The Lake has grown considerably recently however I think this will continue. 9. If you could retire today and could any thing you want, what would you do? I am and enjoying life with Doris and family. 10. Person you admire the most? E M Pennington Louisa County Vo-Agi Teacher. 11. What do you see as the top issue to be resolved around LKA? Currenty all concerns are being addressed. 12. Describe your favorite day on LKA? The LACA Forth of July Fire Works Display at Dike II with Richard and Linda Cooley. 13. Why do you think folks are attracted to LKA? The natural beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes. 14. What do you think the lake needs most? Additional Public Access. 15. What's been the biggest positive change for you around the lake? The establishment of the Lake Anna State Park in Spotsylvania County. 16. What's been the biggest drawback? The lack of commerical establishments until now. 17. Where's your favorite place for dinner around LKA? Elk Creek Store. 18. Fishing, jetskiing, wakeboarding or just sitting on the dock? Just sitting along the shoreline with good company. 19. When you have guests what do you plan for them? I always offer a tour of the lake. 20. How do you feel about the current state of development around LKA? The three counties have and are considering development in a proper manner. Go to www.lakeannalife.com for more LKA Personalities in the coming months! lakeannalife.com 2011 49 So Many Choices... Pontoon, runabout, fishing, jet drive and kayak are all available around LKA. Which Boat Is Right For A A wise man once said, “He who has boat will never lack for friends.” When the first hot day of summer arrives and all your friends want to head to the lake for a day of cruising, sunning or visiting one of the many LKA hotspots like The Sandbar, having a boat makes can make you the most popular person on Facebook. But what boat is right for you? Do you fish? Need to carry a bunch of family and friends? Prefer cruising to casting? Maybe you are a wake boarder, waterskiier or kneeboarder. Lake Anna Tubing Club members must be considered, too. Perhaps paddling is what you want to get into this season? Well, there really are plenty of boat options for the Lake Anna enthusiast depending on your area of interest. Let’s run down some of the top options according to the lake’s marine dealers that tend to see buying trends and favorites well-suited for LKA. 50 lakeannalife.com 2011 Runabouts This is the word used to describe the majority of the pleasure boats used on Lake Anna. You’ll find everything from Stingrays to Hurricanes featuring a fairly deep-v hull design with plenty of seats, some in the bow, for passengers. Runabouts are mostly powered by stern drive motors. Unlike an outboard marine engine, the engine block on a stern drive is housed inside the hull, usually in the middle of the stern. The business end of the motor, the propeller and lower unit stick out from the stern. Jet drive runabouts are a relatively new category of boat that has quickly gained in popularity around Anna. These craft are powered by water jet engines that suck in lake water and “jet” it out via a powerful impeller and nozzle. Some top of the line jet drive boats feature twin engines that produce over 300 hp. There’s no propeller to worry about in Boating Safety By Ginger Ellis FSO PA 87 You? shallow water and handling is exhilarating due to the jet drive characteristics. You’ll find jet drive boat options at Lake Country Marine (Yamaha). Other runabout options on Lake Anna include the Bryant from Lake Country Marine and the Stingray and Tahoe lines from Anna’s Marine Center. Pontoons Lake Anna’s other favorite boat is the pontoon or deck boat. Take an informal poll by checking boat houses and piers and you’ll find at least 35% of them on the lake feature pontoons. They are aquatic playpens, mobile picnicking boats, tow craft and cruising rigs that can take you from dock party to dock party and hotspot to hotspot. These craft are generally built on two aluminum pontoons, but there is such a thing as a tri-toon. Pontoons most often are Getting ready for the boating season sometimes can be a little confusing and expensive if you do not adhere to state regulations. Here is a short checklist courtesy of the Lake Anna Coast Guard Auxliary, Flotilla 87 to make sure you are prepared for a safe and enjoyable boating season. You must have the boat registration card or a “temporary” registration on the vessel before your boat or PWC may be legally operated on Virginia waterways. Validation decals are furnished with each three-year registration issued by the VDGIF. These decals must be on your boat and indicate the month and year of expiration and the registration number assigned to your vessel. Nearly all boating related fatalities are the result of drowning. It is estimated that over 80% of fatalities could have been prevented if a properly fitted life jacket had been worn. There must be one properly fitted wearable (Type I, II, III or V) US Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. This is the time to check your life jackets to make sure they are in good condition and meet the needs of those person that are usually on board your vessel. Remember, inflatable life jackets are lightweight, comfortable to wear and take up about 10% of the storage room of the conventional continued on page 53 powered by outboard engines but some of the larger offer stern drive options. Four-stroke outboards have become the most popular option due to the nearly zero emissions (think no stinky blue smoke), quiet operation, good mid-range power and excellent fuel/oil economy. You can set up a pontoon for cruising or for fishing. Many layouts are available depending on your need. Dee Kidd at Anna’s Marina Center sells the popular line of Bennington and SunTracker pontoons. He says a pontoon is perfect for the retired couple with grandchildren or the family that likes to fish and to cruise. “Most of our pontoons are sold to a client that enjoys Lake Anna at a leisurely pace and has plenty of family that accompanies them on weekends and in the summer.” continued on page 54 lakeannalife.com 2011 51 Wellness Care // Drop Off Appointments // Vaccines // Digital Radiography Digital Ultrasound // Chiropractic Care ICU Care // Isolation Care // Surgery On Soft Tissue and Orthopedic Lameness // Gait Analysis Internal Medicine // Endocrine, Immune Mediated Diseases, Weight loss, Intestinal Disorders and Skin issues Daniel Slovis, D.V.M. ed Loctadt oor nex Food to ion. L LAKE ANNA VETERINARY HOSPITAL [email protected] "We use the latest technology and genuinely care for your pet." - Dr. Dan Slovis 540.894.4572 11012 Kentucky Springs Road, Mineral, VA 23117 www.lakeannaveterinaryhospital.com Appointments Preferred For Your Convenience Evening & Saturday Appointments ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER OF LOUISA 540.967.3132 Q uality Medical Care by Pet Lovers Like You! Rt. 22 Between Louisa & Mineral @4494 Davis Hwy., Louisa Kristine F. Jones, DVM www.animalmedicalcenterlouisa.com 52 lakeannalife.com 2011 John D. Bandes, DVM Boating Safety jackets. So, it is totally irresponsible not to wear a life jacket and insist that your passengers wear a life jacket while underway! Check your life jackets for deterioration that could diminish the performance of the life jacket. Also, make certain your boat has a Type 4, Throwable Flotation Device which in ‘immediately available” and can be quickly reached in an emergency. You must have a US Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher on board that it is adequately charged and is mounted where it is readily accessible. Before your first outing, it’s a good idea to clean your “backfire" flame arrestor and make sure your battery is charged and the positive battery terminal is covered. Also, check your horn and running lights to ensure they are working properly even if you do not plan to boat after sundown. Legally, these must be in good working condition. Last, but not least, check your bilge. Make sure it is dry and clear of grease. Boat with confidence knowing that your boat and its equipment meet state and federal safety requirements. A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a good idea. It’s a free check of your boat or PWC to make sure that the required safety equipment is on board and in good condition. The Auxiliary Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist who will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater. The VSC is not a law enforcement inspection. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter. Interested? Try a virtual VSC to understand what is covered. Afterwards, request an actual VSC from one of our examiners. You can find links to the Virtual VSC Information and "I want a VSC" links on the Flotilla 87’s webpage www.a0540807.uscgaux.info. Your boat can be checked at Flotilla 87’s VSC stations held at different Lake Anna marinas on Saturdays during the boating season from 10 AM - 2 PM, weather and resources permitting. Check our VSC Calendar on our website at www.a0540807.uscgaux.info for the next available VSC station at a marina near you. We also make house calls on either the public or private side of Lake Anna. A unique VSC time and place may be established for those Property Owners Associations interested in fostering safe boating. Please contact Bill at 540-894-0181 or via email fsove@ a0540807.uscgaux.info. LKA Stop Dreaming... Start Living... Take Your First Step To Lake Living Lake Anna Realty Can Help with All Your Lake Anna Real Estate Needs 540.894.8888 • www.lakeannarealty.com • [email protected] Located across from New Bridge Landing Shopping Center 1425 New Bridge Road, Mineral, VA 23117 lakeannalife.com 2011 53 Going Above And Beyond To Serve My Clients. Linda Fosdick Associate Broker ABR, CRS, GRI, RSPS, SFR I have hundreds of aerial photos of the lake to help you find the perfect spot! 540.872.6556 Begin your search for properties at www.DiscoverLakeAnna.com Then email me at [email protected] 1.800.242.LAKE 540.895.9400 Which Boat Is Right For You? from page 51 Pontoon boat options around Lake Anna include Kidd’s Bennington’s and Sun TRACKERs, Lake Country Marine’s Hurricane, Sweetwater, Aqua Patio or Sanpan boats and Sturgeon Creek Marina's JC Pontoons. Wakeboard/Ski Boats Years ago you skied behind your fishing boat or pontoon. Now the serious have their own rigs to be proud of and draw admiring glances at the marina or Dickinsons Store parking lot. Wakeboard and ski boats feature torque-ladden inboard engines mounted inside the hull and a keel drive propeller and rudder system. The boats ride low in the water and can turn as if on a track due to keel fins and a rudder. On board tanks can be pumped full of water allowing the deep hull to displace even more water creating a wake of nearly three feet for high acrobatics. A stainless steel boom stretches across the middle of the cockpit where the tow rope is connected and often multiple speakers are installed. Part of the wakeboarding culture enjoys listening to music while they ‘board and cruise and sound systems are a mark of status among the tribe. Lake Anna has become a popular wakeboarding destination. Marinas around the lake offer options like Supra (The Boat Shop at High Point Marina), Malibu (Lake Country Marine at Anna Point Marina), Moomba (The Boat Shop at High Point Marina). Fishing Boats For six months out of the year, most of what you see on Lake Anna are fishing boats. Anglers come with great, shiny metal flake bass boats, aluminum hulls and center console striper rigs. The colors are those of the rainbow, the outboards that power each can exceed 250 hp. Some can dart from the headwaters of the lake to the dam in under 15 minutes. They feature $1,500 3D fish finder/GPS units, electric trolling motors and tandem axle trailers with LED lights. You can spend your child’s college fund 54 lakeannalife.com continued on page 71 2011 HUNTERS The ONLY oat B Public p in Ram per p the u y! LonANDING Lake Anna ke Pamun Groceries • Pizza • Deli Gas On & Off Water Beer • Wine Did you have a fender bender while visiting the lake? Call Us. We Can Help. LKA DEALER 540 854.5756 6320 Belmont Rd., Mineral, VA 23117 Pontoon & Waverunner Rentals Hourly, Daily or Weekly Hall's Body Shop 24-hr Towing 540.894.4513 day 540.894.0746 night A F F O R D A B L E • C O N V E N I EN T • E S T A B L I S H E D "Winter, summer, spring or fall, I'm ready to show you Lake Anna." Betty Miller WAVERUNNERS Associate Broker, ABR, GRI Dockside Realty Pontoons 540.895.0083 @Anna Point Marina 13721 Anna Pt. Ln., Lake Anna, VA 23117 1.800.242.LAKE (5253) 540.895.9400 Join us for riding lessons & more right here in Louisa! Birthday parties, pony rides, special programs for Scouts and youth groups, lessons for all ages, evenings and Saturdays, too. Contact Us Today! Easy Keeper Farm 3523 Goldmine Rd., Rt. 613, Louisa Minutes from the Lake! Marth Drum 540.748.2288 [email protected] www.easykeeperfarm.com 540 903.6933 [email protected] www.bettymiller-lakeanna.com Join Me For Home Tours B!y Boat "I was born here and spent my life learning everything I can about Lake Anna and the area. I look forward to showing you how to turn your dreams into a Lake Anna reality." Layne Griffith 1.800.242.LAKE 540.895.9400 540.273.7323 c [email protected] lakeannalife.com 2011 55 "Lake Ann restauran I Dining At Lake Anna Tarvern On The Rail Inset - Asian Cafe And The Favorite Foods & Drinks Of LKA Life ... I In just one short year, the Lake Anna dining experience has expanded faster than could be imagined. Visitors and residents can now patronize over a dozen establishments dedicated to tempting the palate and offering unique venues. With everything from burgers to sushi, you can now eat out for breakfast, lunch and dinner without leaving Lake Anna. Here’s a brief description of our recommendations. Ally’s On The Lake Located in the Lake Anna Plaza on the Louisa side of the Rt. 208/New Bridge, Ally’s is the creation of Allison Nails and her son, Frank. Ally manages while Frank, a trained chef, prepares the “contemporary American” cuisine that distinguishes the restaurant. Frank’s specialty might just be the perfectly cooked prime rib, however other fun foods 56 lakeannalife.com 2011 like the French Dip sandwich, Nuclear Fries and wings keep him busy. A full bar serves beer and spirits including the LKA Life favorite – Ally’s Day On The Lake drink made with coconut rum, pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine. Diners can enjoy eating al fresco on the patio or opt to eat inside where approximately 50 folks can be seated at tables and the bar. 540.894.4440. Anna Cabana This lakeside restaurant is the result of the hard work of Bill and Christal Messett. You can literally ride to The Cabana on your jet ski, boat or kayak, tie up to the pier and stroll up the walkway to the deck and enjoy a magnificent view while you dine. Inclement weather is not an issue with cozy indoor seating as well and a friendly bar. Anna Cabana offers plenty of standard menu items like crab cakes, burgers, chicken and steaks, plus some inspired weekly specials like fish tacos, brie runner, a BLT salad and more. Try the Chicken Chesapeake or baby back ribs or roll in for brunch and see if the chef will do eggs Benedict for you. This restaurant proudly serves Lake Anna Winery products, and we suggest a bottle of Lake Anna Sunset Blush to start your evening off right! Keep it light with a pound of spiced shrimp and watch the sun dip and the stars light up the sky as you look toward dessert. 540.895.4022. Asian Café While you might not think hibachi, sushi and sashimi when you come to the lake, you should. Asian Café combines traditional Japanese dishes with grilled steak, chicken and shrimp to offer a truly world-class menu with over 100 combinations. na has gone from nearly zero nt options to many in one year..." Try the sushi box for a sampling of sushi, sashimi and various Asian salads and garnish. Feeling less adventurous? Try the numerous and tasty sushi rolls with a slice of savory ginger, soy and a dab of sinus-clearing wasabi. If you get a hibachi dish be sure and try the “Yum-Yum” sauce, it’s a nice touch of flavor to the grilled items. Enjoy a Japanese beer like Sapporo or Saki rice wine with your meal or just stick with the hot, green tea on a chilly day. The restaurant features indoor dining in booths and tables for approximately 35 people with patio seating as well. A sushi bar seats five and traditional Japanese décor completes the experience. 540.894.9899. Tavern On The Rail This restaurant is located just a short ride from the lake in nearby Fredericks Hall. If you make the effort, you won’t be disappointed as “Tavern” has fantastic atmosphere, an attentive FRANK wait staff and an excellent chef that specializes in dishes that exemplify both traditional and modern, southern cuisine. The daily menu features entrees of beef, pork, chicken and seafood and several specials are prepared weekly. Signature meals include the shrimp and grits, pork Osso Buco, Virginia ham and oysters and the scrumptious Train Wreck dessert. You can choose from a number of Virginia and global wines to compliment your meal while dining in the completely renovated, historic landmark. Tavern was once a country store and home alongside a train station. Today the Buckingham Branch still runs daily and diners will thrill to the sound of the train whistle approaching as the ground begins to rumble. Choose from cozy booths or tables inside and an outdoor patio. There’s a full bar downstairs and a fine bar menu. Lunch and dinner is served Thursday, Friday and Saturday. 540.872.RAIL. Ally's Day On The Lake LKA Join us indoor or out for steaks, prime rib, burgers & more! "One Of LKA's Must Do's!" On The Lake FULL BAR 540-894-4440 or 540-840-4053 200 Lakefront Drive, Mineral, VA 23117 Closed Mon. Tues. - Thurs. 11am - 9pm Fri. - Sat. 11am - 10pm Sun. 11am - 8pm Check our website for Chef Frank's Specials... www.allysonthelake.com Serving Fine Lunches & Dinners Overlooking The Lake Come s By Visit U t! Boa 540 895-4022 See our menu & hours online theannacabana.com 4227 Boggs Drive, Bumpass, VA 23024-8823 lakeannalife.com 2011 57 Enjoy A Taste Of Lake Anna Wh W We all have our favorite meals. Fresh seafood, grilled steaks, sushi, maybe a good old-fashioned American hamburger, they are all on the Lake Anna Life list of top choices. Here are a few of the “specialties” served at our local eateries for you to try during your visit. Bon appetite! Ally’s Restaurant on the Louisa side of the Rt. 208 Bridge in the Lake Anna Island Plaza offers a number of weekly specials, but two LKA Favorites are the Nuclear Fries and the Ally’s Day At The Lake drink. The former is a generous helping of fresh cut fried potatoes covered in Chef Frank’s special Nuclear Wing Sauce, topped with melted pepper jack cheese and jalapenos, all served with spicy ranch dressing. If you want to slow the “meltdown” order an Ally’s Day At The Lake, a refreshing combination of Amaretto, coconut rum, pineapple juice with a splash of grenadine. 540.894.4400. A visit to Lake Anna wouldn’t be complete without an evening spent dining at Tavern on the Rail. Chef Melody offered everything from shrimp and oyster specials to juicy steaks plus a dessert concoction known as The Train Wreck, all in an atmosphere of a splendidly restored country store mere yards from the still used Buckingham Branch railroad line. 540.872.RAIL. Dickinson’s Store is the oldest family run business on the Louisa side of the lake. Here you’ll find a country store that serves customers a little bit of everything, from old favorites to new. The completely renovated store now features the lake’s only beer cave stocked daily with your favorite domestic and imported beers kept at icehouse temperatures. Deli specialties include the 522 Italian Melt sub, the 208 Turkey Melt Sub, the Out Of Towner (roast beef, pastrami, smoked turkey and provolone cheese) and the line of Crossroads Classics sandwiches in honor of the Wares Crossroads intersection where the store sits. Call in orders are welcome here. 540.894.5769. Elk Creek Country Store has always been known for it’s hearty Elk Creek Club Sandwich. Using three pieces of bread, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, ham and turkey, this is one Dagwood that keeps everyone from anglers to wakeboards satisfied for a few hours. New to Elk Creek this season is an ice cream shop with Breyers’ hand-dipped flavors and frozen yogurt. Plenty of tasty toppings are available to personalize your “creation” sure to be a hit with kids and families. Another one of the new dining options around LKA can be found at Asian Café, located next to Ally’s. The Sushi or Hibachi Lunch is affordable A Crossroads Classic Liz Wilson Realtor, ABR, CSP, GRI Dependable & Reliable LAKESIDE PROS Office: 540.895.5855 Cell: 540.226.6475 So's The Dog! Fax: 540.895.0593 Email: [email protected] The Right Agent Makes All The Difference in the World www.LizSellsLakeAnna.com 5755 Courthouse Rd., Spotsylvania, VA 22551 58 lakeannalife.com 2011 Asian Cafe Restaurant & Sushi Bar HIBACHI GRILLED STEAK, SHRIMP & CHICKEN FRESH SUSHI & SASHIMI OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH & DINNER Mon. - Thurs. 11-10, Fri. - Sat. 11-11, Sundays 12-10 Located in the Lake Anna Island Plaza, Louisa side of the Rt. 208 Bridge. Carry Out Orders Welcome 540.894.9899 hile You're Here... and delicious. Choose from freshly made sushi rolls that feature cooked combinations of rice, crab, shrimp and fish. Add a sliver of ginger and a dab of wasabi and you’ll see what keeps folks coming back. The hibachi grill offers steak, shrimp or chicken equally as delicious if you are less adventurous. Try the sashimi or raw options for a more traditional tour of Asian cuisine. 540.894.9899. Besides the incredible view the Anna Cabana Restaurant offers visitors some “special” broiled crab cakes that draw picky locals every weekend. Freshly made with blue crab meat from the nearby Chesapeake Bay and served with tartar sauce, these are a must as you watch the sun set from the deck. Enjoy any entrée with Lake Anna Wines like Bellhaven Cabernet Franc or 2008 vintage Barrel Select Chardonnay. 540.895.4022. Let’s not forget the great addition of Subway Lake Anna and Big Cheese Pizza, both at the New Bridge Landing shopping center. Lakers and visitors alike love the Weekender Special at Subway – four subs, chips and drinks perfect for an aquatic picnic. 540.894.5588. Talk about good deals… For just $5.99 you can get a fresh, readymade pizza at Big Cheese. Plunk down $8.99 and you can hit the water with a large pepperoni pizza, breadsticks with sauce and two-liter soda. 540.894.4270. Enjoy trying all of these LKA LKA Favorites this season. Join Us For Fine Food, Atmosphere & More.. Tavern On The Rail 540.872.RAIL Lunch & Dinner, Thurs. -Sat. Reservations Recommended lakeannalife.com 2011 59 Contrary Creek From Rt. 652 "T lake anna hots E Every lake has them. You’ll find the watersports crowd in one area, the boaters in another, the kayakers in yet another and the anglers in others. The spots that draw the different Lake Anna users have names like The Sandbar, Cocktail Cove, The Bahamas, Duckblind Point and The Sanctuary. This article will share some of LKA’s hotspots and the reason for their popularity. Keep in mind, when you become a user you become a steward of the spot. Dedicated Lakers don’t tolerate misuse of the lake and accept the mantle of responsibility that comes with enjoyment of its special places. Hotspot #1 – The Sandbar Is Back The Sandbar is a 100-yard long spit of sand located at the mouth of Gold Mine Creek far up the North Anna River arm of Lake Anna. When water levels are normal, much of The Sandbar is under about a foot to two feet of water. On most summer weekends you’ll find dozens of boats with their captains and guests enjoying various water-related activities. One of the most popular is people watching, however water volleyball and just catching up vie for second place. The scene is festive and the crowd generally 18 and up. Hotspot #2 – The Wine Bar At Lake Anna Winery Ok, so it's not right on Lake Anna, but this place is definitely a gathering place for LKA gliteratti and entertainment. Go for a tasting, stop by for one of the many events that feature live entertainment and food, shucks, just go to see who's there because the winery has atmosphere but not pretense. This establishment has more events than any other place around the lake, and it's award-winning vintages make everyone raise a glass. A staff that truly enjoys your visit will instantly make you free right at home. The Cajun Zydeco and Octoberfest events are local favorites. Hotspot #3 – The Patio & Bar At Ally's Restaurant These have quickly become LKA hotspots. Now you can belly up to the bar and order A Day On The Lake or your favorite malt beverage and enjoy a Redskins game or take the party outside and "Dedicated Lakers don't tolerate misuse of the lake and accept the respo 60 lakeannalife.com 2011 Lake Anna Winery The Sand Bar" Ware Creek spots yours to discover.... enjoy the view from Ally's Patio overlooking the lake at the Rt. 208 region. Public docking is permitted, so, yes, you can come by land and sea to Ally's! Hotspot #4 – The Deck At Anna Cabana If you know Lake Anna you know there aren't many commercial options in the down lake region - it's a nice break from the busier sections. However, if you want to enjoy an incredible view from a vantage point, high above the water's edge with a beverage or meal, check out the deck at Anna Cabana. It's spacious and a great place to relax when you come in for brunch, lunch or dinner. Hotspot #5 – Dike III If you like to fish you’ll want to try this hotspot. In the late summer and early fall many largemouth, striped bass and white perch school in this region near the Dike III discharge from Cooling Lagoon III. We’re going to be a little vague about the actual location as we should be with a good fishing hole. The nice thing about this spot is the incredible long views you have of the Blue Ridge Mountains Ally's Patio some 55 miles away on clear days. Hotspot #6 The Back of Contrary Creek If you like to wakeboard, you’ll find plenty of morning and weekday ice to board in the rear of Contrary Creek. The lake is fairly wide here and normal NW winds to do not affect it as much as elsewhere. You can loop from the Rt. 652 bridge into the creek and back to the bridge in water from four to 18’ deep. Watch out for the rocky hump in the back left near the mouth of Freshwater Creek. Go early or late if you want to find the best conditions. Hotspot #7 – The Sanctuary While not a spot for power boating, this hotspot does draw its share of boaters. The Sanctuary is actually the far upper portion of the North Anna River and it's a favorite with the lake’s paddling crowd. Kayakers and canoeists love the jungle-like setting complete with lily pads, overhanging trees, a heron rookery, owls and sometimes river otters. Rent kayaks and strap them to your continued on next page onsibility that comes with enjoyment of its special places." lakeannalife.com 2011 61 lake anna hots mothership. Drop the little boats on Comfort Flats and paddle northwest until the banks close in and you’ll feel like you are not on Anna any more. Hotspot #8 – Ware Creek Named after the Ware family that sold the land to the state for use as Lake Anna State Park, this is one of the few creeks on LKA with zero development. It’s a favorite with paddlers, anglers and boaters that anchor and enjoy the relative quiet found there. One of the last remaining stands of hemlocks is in Ware, as is a colony of swifts that burrow into a dirt cliff, beavers, osprey and sometimes bald eagles are spotted. This is a good place to paddle a kayak as you can launch from Picnic Area B at the State Park and do the entire creek in several hours. Hotspot #9 – The Bahamas Down at the other end of the lake you’ll find a series of islands across from the North Anna Power Station dubbed “The Bahamas”. Boat to the lee side of many of these islands and you’ll find sand beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing. While actually walking on any of the islands on Lake Anna is not permitted, pulling your boat to the waterline "I want to be YOUR Lake Anna Realtor." Hotspot #10 – Hunter's Landing Store After a fun day on LKA this waterfront store and restaurant located in the Pamunkey Branch sees patronage swell. Hunter's Landing is an outdoor establishment where you can pull up dockside and treat yourself to cool beverages and a range of sandwiches, pizza and more. The only place for on-the-water fueling in the Pamunkey Branch, groceries, food, beverages and gifts. Enjoy these hotspots and let us know if you find others you’d like to share. Be good stewards and the good times LKA will keep rolling. Hotspot #11 Under the ram's head at Taver Nancy Komatz Realtor, ABR Real Estate Settlements Title Insurance • Multi-million dollar Producer • Twelve years experience in Lake Anna real estate. • Experienced. Responsive. Responsible. Louisa Office & Lake Anna Office 540.273.2736 Serving Louisa, Spotsylvania and all of Central Virginia Pamela Brooks - President www.SeeYouOnTheLake.com Scan with your smart phone to see my listings! 62 lakeannalife.com is fine as is snorkeling, setting up your beach chairs and watching the kids have a blast feeding the many fish that frequent these islands. On many weekends there is a water volleyball net set up here, too. It’s located in the shallow water behind Thurmon Island. Any one is welcome to play. The crowd here varies from island to island but skews more toward families and children. 2011 Dockside Realty 1.800.242.LAKE (5253) 540.895.9400 540.967.1656 • 540.967.2642 f www.louisatitle.com [email protected] 310 East Main St., P.O. Box 276, Louisa, Virginia 23093 spots Powering Lake Anna Adventures 7 Days A Week Serving Fresh Sandwiches and Breakfast M-F 7-10 pm, Sat. 8-10, Sun. 9-9 SUBWAY THIRD 11020 Kentucky Springs Rd. Mineral Va 23117 540-894-5588 New Bridge Landing Shopping Center rn On The Rail. asis Heating & Cooling [email protected] PAT I O S WALLS C a l l U s W h e n Yo u ' r e R e a d y - 5 4 0 . 8 9 4 . 3 8 1 8 Service Calls Starting at $80 Serving Lake Anna & Surrounding Area FREE ESTIMATES ON NEW UNITS 540.967.2140 or 1.866.377.0173 FIRE PITS Harlowe Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping P.O. Box 54, Mineral, VA 23117 lakeannalife.com 2011 63 side trips with style LKA ™ Aerial photo by Kai Sherwood LAKE ANNA FROM 1,000' TOUR HISTORY If you are looking to experience Lake Anna from a different perspective, consider climbing to the jump zone and sky diving with an instructor. You'll never forget the view or that first step! An exclusive tour taking you into the unseen rooms of the upper floors, the Dome Room on the 3rd floor, and an interactive “Crossroads” exhibition under the house. It’s insight and education on the real life of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. Louisa County Airport, VA 540.941.8085 [email protected] Charlottesville, VA 434.984.9822 [email protected] Lake Anna Landing photo by Jens Holzhaeuser ENJOY FINE ARTS TAKE IN A SHOW WINE FESTIVAL From musicians to gallery exhibits, travel to nearby Louisa for engaging performances and displays. Enjoy an enchanting evening of comedy, trajedy, commentary or music with talented local performers. Two bands, vendors, foods and, of course, wine await at this fall Louisa Chamber of Commerce event to be held October 15 in Mineral. Louisa Arts Center 212 Fredericksburg Ave. Louisa, VA 23093 540.967.2200 FOUR COUNTY PLAYERS 5256 Governor Barbour Street |Barboursville, Virginia 540.832.5355 LOUIISA WINE FESTIVAL Robin Horne, Chairman [email protected] 540.967.0944 64 lakeannalife.com 2011 “ARTFUL MANEUVERS & TACTICAL STRATEGEMS” * Trevilian Station marks the scene of the largest all-cavalry Civil War battle site in America. Re-live the struggle and step back in history with a 240-troop, 100-horse re-enactment. Dates: June 9-10, 2012. Historic Bracketts Farm, 1117 Nolting Road Louisa, VA, 10:00am to 4:00pm. 540.967.4420. www.TrevBattleVa.com STEEPLECHASE AT DOLLEY’S HOUSE Montpelier, the home of former First Lady, Dolley Madison, who defined style in hospitality, hosts the annual Montpelier Hunt Races on Saturday, November 15, 2011. It’s a grand time and an American tradition! James Madison’s MONTPELIER 540.672.0027 (info); 540.672.0014 (tickets) [email protected] *James H. Kidd, 1909, courtesy of Trevilian Station Battlefield Foundation, Inc. HIT THE TRAIL Join Martha Drum at Easy Keeper Farm for horseback riding at her Lake Anna area facility. A great treat for children and the young at heart! EASY KEEPER FARM 3523 Goldmine Rd./Rt. 613, Louisa 540.748.2288 HIT THE LINKS AT SHENANDOAH CROSSING It’s TEE TIME for your swing. Grab a bucket of balls and let it fly. Four bucks buys you the play, and practice buys you the smile. Public play welcomed. SHENANDOAH CROSSING 174 Horseshoe Circle Gordonsville, VA 540.832.9400 lakeannalife.com 2011 65 LKA ™ Bob's Mobile Marine TAKE 1,100 OFF Any In-Stock $ 1/12 - 90 Bob Toler Expires 8.31.11 JC Pontoon. with this coupon! Sturgeon Creek Marina 10% OFF WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT Expires 12.31.11 coupons with this coupon 804.647.7966 [email protected] 540.895.5095 Expires 12.31.11 LKA TM LKA TM Lake Anna, VA Lake Anna, VA FREE LKA Mini STICKER with this coupon Outfitters 5 OFF WEEKDAY KAYAK RENTAL $ with this coupon, one per customer 540.894.3540 Located At High Point Marina Expires 12.31.11 Expires 12.31.11, while supplies last. Dickinson's Store FREE SMALL COFFEE with this coupon & purchase of breakfast sandwich HIGH POINT MARINA & The Lighthouse Inn Special Winter Room Rate $ 59 Base Rate with this coupon, 3-night minimum, 3rd night FREE. 540.895.5249 540.894.5769 5 OFF TICKET PRICE $ @THE GATE 10% OFF Case 3 Off Three-Pack $ 66 lakeannalife.com 2011 Expires 2.28.12 LKA ™ Expires 2.28.12 Outfitters Original coupon only. One per person. coupons LKA ™ Expires 12.31.11 LKA ™ FRANK LKA ™ On The Lake 11020 Kentucky Springs Rd. Mineral Va 23117 540-894-5588 New Bridge Landing Shopping Center 540.967.0168 $20 OFF Boat Detailing BUY TWO ENTREES & GET A FREE APPETIZER coupon 540.967.0168 with this 540.967.0168 $5 OFF Marine Engine Oil & Filter Change Save 10% on Manufacturer's 100-hr. maintanence with this coupon with this coupon with this coupon Expires 12.31.11 Expires 12.31.11 Expires 12.31.11 Lake Anna Carpet Cleaners 1 OFF WEEKDAY RAMP FEE $ with this coupon 540.895.5900 LKA with this coupon LKA ™ Expires 12.31.11 *Up to 400 sq. ft. 540.894.9200 540.894.8770 @Anna Point Marina Steam Carpet Cleaning... 2 Rooms* - $75 LKA TRACTOR HILL 10% OFF Maintenance Tractors/Lawn Mower lakeannalife.com 2011 67 Expires 6.30.11 LKA ™ calendar of events May May 7 through June 5 - The Virginia Renaissance Faire at Lake Anna Winery. 10 am until 6 pm. Back and bigger than ever! The Faire brings a unique brand of educational interactive family entertainment. Join in the revelry as the little 16th century town of Staffordshire celebrates the arrival of Elizabeth, Queen of England and her court. For more information, visit the website at www.VaRF.org. Weekends Only: May 7-8, May 14-15, May 21-22, May 28-29, June 4-5. 540.895.5085. May 7 - Mother’s Day Jazz at Lake Anna Winery. 6pm to 10 pm. Kick things off for Mom a day early. Indulge Mom with a savory buffet of gourmet cuisine. $30.00 fee includes food, live Jazz with Aaron Noe and his Big Band Sound (14 piece orchestra), souvenir glass, tours, tasting and a rose for Mom. Reservations for food are required. 540.895.5085. May 14 - PET WEEKEND at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Pet parade! This weekend is devoted to pets! Dress-up your pet and yourself for our pet costume contest and parade. Everyone’s a superstar on parade day. Show your originality and have the cutest pet costume on the block! Grooming workshop. Learn some tips on how to take better care of your pet whether they can walk, crawl, hop, or fly. music outside under the lights from "REUNION" local artists specializing in southern rock and roll. Greg from Gregory’s Grill will be on hand to satisfy your appetite with his specialties off the grill for sale. Bar is open, wine sold by the glass or bottle. $15.00 fee includes music and dancing under the stars, winery tours, souvenir glass. 540.895.5085. May 29 - DJ DANCE at Christopher Run Campground. June June 4 - SEASONAL POT LUCK DINNER & COCKTAIL PARTY at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Now that summer is in full swing it’s time to socialize with your fellow seasonal campers. Bring a covered dish to the pavilion at 6pm. June 10 & 11 - BLUEGRASS JAM WEEKEND at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Have you missed bluegrass music at Christopher Run? If so bring your instruments and come here for a gathering of friends. No cost, just pick and grin the weekend away. May 21 - TIKI DJ DANCE PARTY at Christopher Run Campground. We’re bringing the South Pacific to you and your friends come join us in our celebration! Decorate your site for the occasion and join us in a theme dance party. May 22 - First Annual Lake Anna Kayak Rally/ Poker Run. Meet at LKA Outfitters @High Point Marina at 8 am and get ready to paddle. Five stations complete an approximately five-mile paddle route. First to complete wins prize. Highest hand wins prize. Paddle route to be announced. For more information call 540.894.3540 or email [email protected]. May 26 - Lake Anna Life's Wine & Kayaks. Join us for a delightful evening paddle and a wine tasting provided by Lake Anna Winery. Meet at LKA Outfitters @ Duke's Creek Marina at 6 pm. $20 fee. For more information call 540.895.5085 or email [email protected]. May 27 - Memorial Day Into The Night at Lake Anna Winery. 6 to 10 pm. Join us for the official kick off to the Lake season. Come by and enjoy 68 lakeannalife.com 2011 June 23 - Lake Anna Life's Wine & Kayaks. Join us for a delightful evening paddle and a wine tasting provided by Lake Anna Winery. Meet at LKA Outfitters @ High Point Marina at 6 pm. $10 fee. For more information call 540.894.3540 or email [email protected]. June 25 - CRC Celebration Day at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. In honor of our celebration we are hosting an anniversary potluck, bring along your favorite dish and share some of your most prized memories. Our theme is family so bring something that symbolizes your family. June 26 - North Anna River Paddle. Meet at LKA Outfitters @ High Point Marina at 8:30 am for an expedition below the Lake Anna Dam onto a beautiful little river. Bring your bathing suit and snorkel mask. For more information call 540.894.3540 or email [email protected]. July July 1 - Independence Day Kickoff Celebration at Lake Anna Winery. 6 to 10 pm. Come by and enjoy an early kickoff to your holiday weekend out in the vineyard with live music from Lake Anna’s Favorite "Southern Velocity". Bar is open, wine sold by the glass or bottle. $15 fee includes music and dancing under the stars, winery tours, souvenir glass.. Food available for sale from Gregory’s Grill. 540.895.5085. July 1 - FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND KARAKOE at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. July 2 - Fireworks At Lake Anna. Dike II. Lake Anna Civic Association sponsored. June 11 - Here Comes Summer In The Vineyard at Lake Anna Winery. 6pm - 10pm. Welcome in the summer out on our lawn and dance into the night. "The English Channel". Rock Roll and remember British hits of the mid 60’s, 70’s classic Rock and Pop. Jason from "Hill City BBQ" will be here to roast our guest of honor "Wilber" the Pig. $30 Fee includes food, music with souvenir wine glass, tours, and tasting. 540.895.5085 June 18 - FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Free coffee for all Dads! If dad loves to fish, treat him to a fun day of fishing on us. Prizes awarded to the father & son with the biggest catch of the day. July 2 - Mr. C the Magician will perform Parlor Magic, a combination of stage and close up magic at Christopher Run Campground. There will be lots of audience participation. Mr. C will even teach a trick to the whole group. In addition there will be Origami Magic. 7 pm Fireworks Extravaganza ... meet in the front parking lot at 9:15 pm to see a great show! No other fireworks will be permitted in the park July 3 - DJ DANCE PARTY at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. July 9 CHRISTMAS in July at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Christmas Site Decorating Contest BEGINS, get into the spirit and decorate your site, import some snow, and bring out your Christmas music! Camping prizes LKA ™ calendar of events for the best decorated sites, winners will be announced JULY 30! July 9 - Lake Anna Kayak Club Beach Party Paddle. Meeting location and time to be announced. Join us for a paddle up event party on a remote beach on the lake. Grills and beverages welcome. Bring your bathing suit and be prepared to have a blast. For more information call 540.894.3540 or email [email protected]. July 9 - Cajun Zydeco at Lake Anna Winery. 6 to 10 pm. Fireworks are over, but the sparks still fly at the winery for live Zydeco music with "Zack Smith & The Dixie Power Trio" and Cajun Fare. Consistently our most popular event. $30 fee includes food, souvenir wine glass, tours, and tasting. Sold out in 2010! Bring your own food and picnic for $15. Reservations for food are required. 540.895.5085. July 16 - Wine & Whiskers at Lake Anna Winery. 6 to 10 pm. A fund raiser for the Fredericksburg area SPCA. The event features wine tastings, a cash wine bar, light fare and desserts, silent auction, door prizes and music Twelve Row Barley. A $45.00 fee includes appetizers, souvenir wine glass, tours, and tasting benefits the SPCA's new humane care facility. The SPCA is the Fredericksburg area's only no-kill animal shelter. Reservations are required. Tickets will be available by calling the SPCA at 540-898-1500 or by purchasing online at www.fburgspca.org. 540.895.5085. July 23 CHRISTMAS in July Wii DANCING TOURNAMENT at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Come show your skills and dance along with your peers on the big screen. Prizes will be awarded to the best dancers. July 30 CHRISTMAS in July at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Christmas Site Decorating Contest Saturday evening. Camping prizes for the best decorated sites. There is also a possibility of a hay sleigh ride to view the decorated Christmas sites; it depends on how Santa is feeling… HO HO HOPe to see you there! August August 6 - Caribbean Beach Party at Lake Anna Winery. 5 pm to 10 pm. Held on the Grounds of Lake Anna Winery. Join us along with, James River, Cooper and Grayhaven wineries for an evening of great wine, exceptional food for sale from (Jamaica House) and live Caribbean Jazz by Sam O. Wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt and dance under the stars. A modest $10 fee includes tasting wines from all four wineries. Kick back with a glass of your favorite. Check www. hovawinetrail.com for details and ticket info. 540.895.5085. August 6 - Bobby D the Amazing Balloon Guy at Christopher Run Campground. Bobby D the Amazing Balloon Guy will wow you with his interactive comedy and magical balloons show with balloons for all kids. August 13- KIDS TAKE OVER WEEKEND *CRC BIKE & Dog Walk PARADE 2 PM at Christopher Run Campground. Decorate your bike, scooter or tricycle,trikes , strollers, wagons, skooters, skate boards, wheel chairs and join OTHER people for a RIDE AROUND the campground and if you don’t have a bike, NO worries dress up your PET whether they walk, crawl, hop, or fly. Dressup your pet and yourself for our pet costume contest and parade. Everyone’s a superstar on parade day show your originality and have the cutest pet costume on the block. *CRC MINI GOLF SPECIAL* ANY CHILD UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE CAN PLAY FOR ½ THE PRICE ON SATURDAY. *CRC WATER WARS. Don’t forget to bring your squirt guns & super soakers and have a CHILL of a time! Bathing suits are more suitable for this type of party, but it is not required to wear one. 540.894.4744. August 13 - Moonlight Paddle. Meet at Bruce and Helen McCotter's at 8:30 pm for our annual afterdark adventure to the secret "Kayaker's Beach". You must have a light on your kayak. For more information call 540.894.3540 or email [email protected]. August 13 - ACE Blues & BBQ Fundraiser at Lake Anna Winery. 5 to 10 pm. Adult Commulakeannalife.com 2011 69 LKA ™ calendar of events nity Education (ACE) returns to kick up some fun with local musicians "BlueRock." $30 fee includes souvenir wine glass, wine tasting, food, and entertainment. Lots of surprises in store for the day along with auction items. Education is King on this day! Reservations Required. 540.895.5085. August 20 - LIVE ANIMAL ADVENTURES at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. Live Animal Adventures is a unique animal learning experience. We are devoted to teaching the public about the animals of the world. We are not a circus act. We entertain while we educate! August 27 - PONY RIDES at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. September September 3 - Last Days Of Summer Jazz from 6 to 10 pm at Lake Anna Winery. Join us at summers end as we wind down the summer season with a tribute to the classics (Beach, Rock & Roll and Motown). $20 Fee includes live music with Richmond sensations SPECTRUM, wine glass, tours, and tasting. Hand tossed, made to order, authentic wood fired PIZZA will be available for sale from Fired Up Pizza. 540.895.5085. September 3 - LABOR DAY WEEKEND at Christopher Run Campground. Maggie-Nificent will be here with her live bunny performing her comedy magic show. She will make balloon sculptures for the kids (limit; 1 creation per child) -7pm. 540.894.4744. September 4 - DJ DANCE PARTY at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. September 10 - A MURDER MYSTERY at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. September 17 - VA is for LOVER’S WEEKEND at Christopher Run Campground. For couples seeking some special time together, it's all about the setting. Soak in the last of the autumn weather with us. Special discount will be provided for couples in love. 540.894.4744. September 24 - BOBBING FOR APPLES CONTEST at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. October October 1 - PUMPKIN CARVINGS at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. October 1 - Lake Anna Business Partnership's Vegas Night. Mark your calendar. Location to be 70 lakeannalife.com 2011 announced. 6-11 pm. www.visitlakeanna.org. November October 8 - HALLOWEEN COSTUME DJ DANCE PARTY at Christopher Run Campground. 540.894.4744. October 14 - HAUNTED TRAIL TO BENEFIT THE LAKE ANNA RESCUE INC. JUNIOR PROGRAM at Christopher Run Campground. The trail will feature a Zombie Hunting Camp, all sorts of ghosts, goblins and many more scary creatures that will give you the fright of your life. Costs: 10 dollars per person for unlimited trips through the trail. $5 per person for persons camping at the campground on any of the trail weekends. Times: 7pm until 10 pm. 540.894.4744. October 15 - Louisa Wine Festival at Walton Park, Mineral, Virginia. Presented by the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce. For more information email [email protected] or visit www.louisawinefestival.com. October 15 - Octoberfest at Lake Anna Winery. 4 to 8 pm. Enjoy the bounty and beauty of fall in the country. Join us for an evening of wine, a hearty authentic German meal and local music from Michael Wheelehan. $30 fee helps benefit Habitat for Humanity causes. Reservations for food are required. 540.895.5085. November 5 & 6 - Heart Of Virginia Wine Trail. All Day. Buy a passport ticket for only $10 and you get a souvenir wineglass, wine tasting at the four Heart of Virginia Wineries Lake Anna, James River, Cooper and Grayhaven. During our special wine trail weekends you will get to graze on munchies at each winery and check out special promotions. Purchase tickets here at Lake Anna Winery. 540.895.5085. November 26 & 27 - Lake Anna Business Partnership's Christmas Open House. Visit area businesses for an old-fashioned open house with treats, deals and prizes. www.visitlakeanna.org. December December 3 & 4 - Heart Of Virginia Jingle Bell Trail. All Day. Buy a passport ticket for only $10 and you get a souvenir wineglass, wine tasting at the four Heart of Virginia Wineries Lake Anna, James River, Cooper and Grayhaven. During our special wine trail weekends you will get to graze on munchies at each winery and check out special Christmas promotions. Purchase tickets from Lake Anna Winery. 540.895.5085. 2012 October 22 - HAUNTED TRAIL TO BENEFIT THE LAKE ANNA RESCUE INC. JUNIOR PROGRAM at Christopher Run Campground. The trail will feature a Zombie Hunting Camp, all sorts of ghosts, goblins and many more scary creatures that will give you the fright of your life. Costs : 10 dollars per person for unlimited trips through the trail. $5 per person for persons camping at the campground on any of the trail weekends. Times: 7pm until 10 pm. 540.894.4744. October 28 - Haunting Halloween Madness at Lake Anna Winery. 6pm - 10pm. Costumes, music, and food outline this scary Friday night in the vineyard. Dance into the night to the tunes of "String Kings." Pumpkin carving, Roast marshmallows and wieners by the bon fire, wine tasting, and tours. All for $10 bucks, you gotta be kidding! 540.895.5085. October 29 - HAUNTED TRAIL TO BENEFIT THE LAKE ANNA RESCUE INC. JUNIOR PROGRAM at Christopher Run Campground. The trail will feature many scary creatures that will give you the fright of your life. Costs : $10 per person for unlimited trips through the trail. $5 per person for persons camping at the campground on any of the trail weekends. Times: 7pm until 10 pm. 540.894.4744. April 30 - Lake Anna Business Partnership's Annual Spring Fling Festival. New Bridge Landing. www.visitlakeanna.org. June 9 & 10 - Battle of Trevilians Re-Enactment. www.TevBattleVa.com. Which Boat Is Right For You? fund on one or go budget and choose a packaged, pre-rigged aluminum option. Local options include Nitro and TRACKER (Anna’ Marina Center), Xpress (Duke’s Creek Marina) and Triton (Lake Country Power). Personal Watercraft Love them or dislike them, personal watercraft or Jetski® are here to stay and they are favorite among Lakers. Today’s PWC feature low emission fourcycle engines that run cleaner and quieter than their predecessors. Some run over 70 mph, others can accommodate up to three passengers. Given the right conditions, PWC can be a great way to enjoy and explore Lake Anna. You’ll find Lake Country Power has the full line of Yamaha Waverunner PWC. Kayaks Yes, there are some folks that prefer not to fire up an engine when they go boating. Kayaks have become very popular around LKA. You’ll see many on docks in addition to powerboats in the lift. You can choose from sit-in hulls and sit-on-top hulls. The former offers a drier ride, the latter a much easier in and out, plus fishing options. Lake Anna Outfitters is Anna’s kayak shop and sells the Emotion line of sit-on-top and sit-in boats. The Emotion Temptation or Mojo is the most popular sit-on-top and the Emotion Glide is the most popular sit-in boat. This shop is located at High Point Marina, selling and renting kayaks. It’s about 80’ from the water so you can test paddle any kayak on the weekends or by appointment on the weekdays. Kayaks are a great way to explore the lake and get exercise. Tandem kayaks are great for families wanting to get on the water for a modest investment. The Lake Anna Kayak Club is active with monthly expeditions both on and off the lake. For more information visit www. lkakayakclub.blogspot.com. The event schedule is posted there as well as at www.lakeannalife.com Lake Anna Carpet Cleaners Steam Makes it Clean! Steam Carpet Cleaning... 2 Rooms* $ 75 *Up To 400 sq. ft. Garland Ray Vietnam Veteran Call 540.894.9200 from page 54 Residential & New Construction Licensed & Bonded Heaven's Way Cleaning 540.894.9503 Lake Anna Area OPEN & COVERED STORAGE For Boats, RVs and more. Located 5 mi. from Rt. 208 marinas at 10630 Kentucky Springs Rd. Cedar Knoll Storage 24-hr., lighted access, electr. & water avail., security fenced 540.872.3150 • 540.872.8925 cedarknollstorage.com We Monitor Your Alarm For $15 Per Month. lakeannalife.com 2011 71 LKA ™ advertiser index A&E Homes pg. 27 Ally's On Lake Anna pg. 57 Alpha Land Surveys pg. 37 Animal Medical Center of Louisa pg. 52 Anna Cabana pg. 57 Anna Point Marina/Fish Tales pg. 3 Anna Point Marina/Boating Store pg. 3 Anna Point Marina/Lake Country Marine pg. 2 Anna’s Marine Center pg. 26 Asian Cafe pg. 58 Big Cheese Pizza pg. 59 Blake & Bane, Inc. (Mill Run) pg. 34 Bob’s Mobile Marine pg. 41 The Boat Shop pg. 41 C-3 Concrete pg. 35 Cedar Knoll Storage pg. 71 Christopher Run Campground, pg. 21 Dickinson’s Store pg. 47 Dockside Realty Rentals pg. 11 Dockside Realty pg. 76 Dominion Resources pg. 7 Easy Keeper Farm pg. 55 Elk Creek Country Store pg. 74 Evergreen Landscaping & Design pg. 40 First Mates Boat Rental pg. 55 Gardner, Kathy pg. 35 Gentry, Ron pg 35 Griffith, Gary pg. 33 Griffith, Layne pg. 55 Fosdick, Linda pg. 54 Hall's Body Shop pg. 55 Harlowe Grounds Maint. & Landscaping pg. 63 Heaven's Way Cleaning pg. 71 Food & Fuel For Your Lake Anna Visit! New Bridge Market & Deli 540.894.0003 High Point Marina pg. 41 Hunter’s Landing pg. 55 J.S. Purcell Lumber Corporation pg. 5 Komatz, Nancy pg 62 Lake Anna Business Partnership pg. 4 Lake Anna Carpet Cleaners pg. 71 Lake Anna Connections pg. 26 Lake Anna Realty pg. 53 Lake Anna Security pg. 71 Lake Anna State Park pg. 17 Lake Anna Winery pg. 20 Lake Anna Veterinary Hospital pg. 52 Lake Breeze Enclosures pg. 37 LKA Contracting pg. 22 LKA Outfitters pg. 40 Long & Foster Realtors pg. 25 Louisa Arts Center pg. 54 Louisa Health & Rehab pg. 23 Louisa Wine Festival pg. 24 Louisa Title Agency pg. 62 McCotter’s LKA Guide Service pg. 44 Miller, Betty pg. 55 New Bridge Market & Deli pg. 72 Oasis Heating & Cooling pg. 63 Precision Transmsn. & Auto Repairs pg. 26 Plum Tree Properties pg. 9 Ramsey Construction pg. 35 Realty World… Lakeside Pros pg. 45 Robinson Construction pg. 22 Sandridge, Libby pg. 17 Southern Image Building & Design pg. 33 Spartan Homes pg. 31 Sturgeon Creek Marina pg. 8 2011 Did you want to advertise this year but just didn't get around to it? Contact us for advertising on our website @ www.lakeannalife.com Enjoy Your Visit And Be Safe. Our Gourmet Coffee Is Ready at 6 am Every Morning! UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT LKA DEALER Located at the Louisa side of the Rt. 208 Bridge 72 lakeannalife.com Subway Lake Anna pg. 63 Stocking Insurance Co. pg. 27 Taverm On The Rail pg. 59 Timmy Hein pg. 40 Tractor Hill pg. 75 UAII pg. 74 Virginia Wine Club pg. 23 Wake Makers pg. 74 Wayne’s Heating & Cooling pg. 27 Wilson, Liz pg. 58 Yates, Toni pg. 45 Come to a Flotilla meeting the 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm at the Louisa County Library (881 Davis Hwy, Mineral, VA). www.a0540807.uscgaux.info/index.html LKA ™ lake anna map Lake Anna maps come in all shapes and sizes. One of the best is the GMCO Pro Series map. It is waterproof and tear resistant. It shows depths, underwater topography, fishing areas, ramps, roads, the State Park trails even subdivisions. It also has GPS grids for navigation. It is single-sided map, so if you want to put one on your wall, you don't have to piece two maps together any more. To order the GMCO Lake Anna Pro Series map call 540.894.3540 or visit www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com and shop the online store. There is also a laminated version available. lakeannalife.com 2011 73 Want Your Lawn Green Year Round? We Design, Install & Maintain Irrigation Systems. Irrigation Pump Repair Landscaping Lawn Care Hardscaping Landscape Lighting • Ponds Design Landscaping & Irrigation, Inc. 540.967.2541 o 434.996.2198 c www.designlandscapingandirrigation.com [email protected] Throttle up excitement, or unwind on a cruise... Rent jetskis or pontoons Most Modern Fleet On The Lake! WAKE MAKERS Open Tues.-Sun.,9am to 5pm Memorial Day thru Labor Day We are located at Christopher Run Campground wakemakersonline.com 540.JET.SKIS 540. 538.7547 74 lakeannalife.com 2011 R DE A O L EE FR odels on CK M lakeannalife.com 2011 75 Dockside Realty Premier Properties Experienced Agents Satisfied Clients Two Locations High Point Marina at the Route 208 Bridge and New Bridge Landing (Next to Food Lion) http://gettag.mobi Get the free mobile app for your phone Sales: 540.895.9400 Rentals: 540.894.9400 www.DocksideRealty.com homes f2011 Land f rentals f investment f Commercial Properties 76 lakeannalife.com