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September 12, 2013

“Pack Your Bags: A Traveler’s look at the Williamsburg Lodge in Colonial Williamsburg, VA”

By: Leigh Powell Hines

09.09.2013

If you want to immerse yourself in colonial life, be in the best location possible for a Colonial Williamsburg vacation, and stay in a family-friendly hotel that meets most of my luxury hotel standards, then there is no doubt in my mind that you need to stay in the Williamsburg Lodge.

http://www.hinessightblog.com/2013/09/pack-your-bags-travelers-look-at.html


Colonial Williamsburg has several properties for all budgets, but the true luxury hotel lover will probably be happy only in the Premium properties, which include the Williamsburg Inn, The Williamsburg Lodge, and the Providence Hall Guest Houses.

There is nothing wrong with the other properties in the deluxe and value categories at all, but you know we talk about luxury here, and it’s important for me to tell you that there is even a big difference in luxury between the Williamsburg Inn and the Lodge, where I stayed.

The Williamsburg Inn (read about my private tour of the Inn) is going to have what most expect in a luxury hotel: turn-down service, robes, slippers, 24-hour room service, and marble bathrooms. It falls into the real category of a luxury property, just as its founder John D. Rockefeller envisioned. Also, as a Leading Hotel of the World property, there are certain expectations that the Inn maintains, and its nightly rate of more than $500 per night reflects this.



http://www.hinessightblog.com/2013/08/an-instagram-look-at-williamsburg-inn.html

The Williamsburg Lodge, with its folk-art décor, has a more refined, casual, fun vibe.

The Williamsburg Lodge Rooms

The rooms are missing plush robes, duvets, scales, and large luxury bathrooms that you typically find in the properties that I’ve visited for this blog, but these rooms are spacious and clean, they’re equipped with Keurig coffee machines, and bathroom amenities are from the Williamsburg Inn Spa.

It’s definitely conference-friendly, and the public areas give it more of a lux feel than the rooms do. Rooms rival the amenities found in moderate to upscale national hotel chains, but custom period furnishings take these up a notch for theming and individuality.



The Williamsburg Lodge furnishings transport you back to colonial days, but with some very modern conveniences like a fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, select hours of room service, and a full-service restaurant.

We stayed in a lodge deluxe room with two queen beds in the Custis House. Some rooms have hardwood floors. Our room had carpeting. The original lodge is a historic property built in 1939. Today, the hotel boasts 323 guest rooms and 45,000 square feet of meeting space.

The Lodge complex is made up of eight distinct buildings. The Custis building is one of four buildings added in 2006. The entire lodge facility is connected by a series of covered walkways for convenient access in any weather. And we certainly saw torrential rains on our first evening there.

The Williamsburg Lodge is Best for Families who Like Upscale Surroundings



After touring the Williamsburg Inn, and staying in the Williamsburg Lodge, I’m going to stand by my opinion that the Williamsburg Lodge is the best place for families to stay if they like more upscale surroundings.

The beds are comfortable. The lobby is beautiful, and the food is delicious. I had the three-cheese flatbread pizza in the Lobby Lounge on my first night there, and I thought it was exceptional. The Lodge also has many Virginia craft brews on tap.

The hotel also shares an indoor lap pool and an outdoor pool with the Williamsburg Inn.

The location of the Lodge cannot be beat. The Fife and Drum corps pick up guests every morning and march them into the Revolutionary City. You are just steps away from the action.



The Luxury Perks

The doorman greets with you a smile after your day of sightseeing, and the complimentary water is a great perk on hot days. Staff will make reservations for you and help with your tour plans.

Staying on property at Colonial Williamsburg has many perks, including discount tickets, preferred reservations for dining and attractions, as well as complimentary shuttle transportation around Revolutionary City and other area attractions. We took the shuttle to Busch Gardens, and it was a seamless process. Colonial Williamsburg also provides transportation to Yorktown and Jamestown, seasonally.



And here’s another inside tip for you: If you do stay in a premium property, you will be the last pickup before the bus heads to Busch Gardens, and you will be the first stop on your return. You will be dropped off before guests staying in the Deluxe and Value Resorts.

Room Service

We were busy while in Williamsburg, but we also wanted to have some downtime, too. A hotel pool can truly be a highlight of a child’s vacation, so we opted for an early-evening swim followed by in-room dining.

Room service prices were extremely reasonable, and I think a reason for that is there are only so many restaurants in the area that are owned by Colonial Williamsburg, and since this is such a family-friendly destination, I think it’s treated not only as a luxury, but also a necessity for families. I ordered a delicious crabcake sandwich from the downstairs restaurant, Traditions, for under $14.

In HinesSight on my Stay

I would definitely stay at the Williamsburg Lodge again on a visit. Would I splurge on the Williamsburg Inn instead since I love luxury so much? Maybe so, if I were traveling with my husband for a special occasion, but not as travelers with young children. The Lodge meets my traveling expectations.



I think a Bounce Package with tickets to the Revolutionary City, Busch Gardens, and Water Country U.S.A are definitely the way to go with this hotel for a family, and it’s reflected in the rates of over $350 compared to regular rack room rates. Busch Garden passes are expensive. One day is $72 for an adult, if bought separately. I think you definitely save money by getting a package, and you can bounce around from the water park, Busch Gardens, and Revolutionary City during your vacation.

Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown are included in addition to the parks in the Williamsburg Flex package. I would not book the room-only rate for this hotel unless you already have tickets and passes. Always take advantage of tickets.

Packages with Tavern dining also would be a plus for you because Tavern dining is expensive. It’s worth the expense, though. I named Shield’s Tavern as one of my Top Southern Culinary Bites for Summer 2013 in an article for Skimbaco Lifestyle this month.



http://www.skimbacolifestyle.com/2013/09/culinary-travel-to-south.html

http://www.skimbacolifestyle.com/2013/09/culinary-travel-to-south.html

Typically, if you stay on-site, you will also get complimentary admission for one evening event that requires a special purchased ticket.

Fall and the Christmas holidays are a great time to visit Colonial Williamsburg and the Williamsburg Lodge. For more information on travel to Greater Williamsburg, visit www.visitwilliamsburg.com.

FTC Disclosure: I stayed at the Williamsburg Lodge while in Williamsburg with a combination of complimentary and special rates to produce this "Pack Your Bags" feature/review. Opinions about my experience in Colonial Williamsburg are my own. All food costs, including room service, on this trip were my own expense.



http://www.visitwilliamsburg.com/

279

HOT LOOK Man-ponytail

SIGNATURE FASHIONBlacksmith

chic

MUSICALACCOMPANIMENTFife-and-drum

corps

SPORTINGSack races

HOUSEWARMING GIFTHand-dipped

candle

ACCESSORYClay pipe

TAKING THE CURELeeching

STATUS SYMBOLGiant shoe buckle

TRENDY DISHBraised pokeweed

PASTIMERaised-bed organic

gardening

HABERDASHERYMonmouth cap

LIBATIONHome-stilled ale

SEX OBJECTPotbellied youth

HOT LOOK Man-ponytail

SIGNATURE FASHIONEmaciatedblacksmith

MUSICALACCOMPANIMENTFife-and-drum

circles

SPORTINGIronic sack races

HOUSEWARMING GIFTArtisanal hand-dipped candle

ACCESSORYPost-ironic clay pipe

TAKING THE CURECupping

STATUS SYMBOLGiant belt buckle

TRENDY DISHBraised pokeweed

PASTIMERaised-bed organic

gardening

HABERDASHERYSlouchy wool hat

LIBATIONHome-stilled ale

SEX OBJECTPotbellied youth

I l l u s t r a t i o n b y Z O H A R L A Z A R

B y A D A M L E F F a n d R I C H A R D R U S H F I E L D

A GUIDE TO THE TWO

WILLIAMSBURGSCOLONIAL DENIZENS VS. THE HIPSTERS

WILLIAMSBURG,Virginia

WILLIAMSBURG,Brooklyn

www.vanityfair.com V A N I T Y F A I R

The Obama-Administration Edition

SCANDAL-O-MATICYour 10-step guide to the entirely predictable outcome of the

current unpleasantness in Washington

VANIT IES

B y B R U C E F E I R S T E I N | I l l u s t r a t i o n s b y W A L T E R C. B A U M A N N

FINALLY, AFTER THERE’S AT LEAST ONE SCAPEGOAT

FIRED AT:The Justice

Department. The I.R.S. Or the

White House . . .

8.

9.

FIRST, IF YOU’RE A MEMBER OF THE G.O.P., PICK SOMETHING TO GET OUTRAGED ABOUT.

NOW, AS THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATIONSENDS OUT JAYAA CARNE TO OY FFER A

DEFENSE, THE G.O.P. WILL RESPOND BY:

Government loans to

Solyndra.

Fast and Furious–style gun running.

What really happened

at Benghazi.

The I.R.S. targeting the Tea Party.

NEXT, THE ESTABLISHMENT MEDIA WILL DISMISS ALL THIS, SAYAA ING:

AND NOW IT’S INEVITABLETHAT MSNBC’S TOURÉ

WILL DECLARE . . .

AND FOX NEWS’S SEAN HANNITY WILLATTRIBUTE IT TO OBAMA’S RADICAL-SOCIALIST-MUSLIM UPBRINGING.

AND TO MAKE MATTERS WORSE, SOMEONE TESTIFIES IN FRONT OF CONGRESS USING ONE OF

THE FOLLOWING WEASEL-PHRASES:

THE CRISIS SLOWLY FADES INTO A DIM MEMORY,YYAND THE NATION RETURNS ITS ATTENTION TO THE

IMPORTANT BUSINESS OF FOLLOWING . . .

“They’re trying to destroy Hillary’s

chances in 2016.”“The Republicans

have always hated Obama.”

“Mistakes were made.”

“I’m going to plead the

Fifth.”

The Kardashians. The new judges on American Idol.

THE NEXT GENERATION OF PRODUCT

RELEASES FROM APPLE.

C‘16H

“I don’t remember.”

“I can’t recall.”

“It’s a sideshow.”

“It’s unimportant.”

Doh!

Comparing it to Watergate.

Calling for televised hearings.

Appearing on TV mouthing the platitude:

1.

3.

4.

7.

10.

SINCE THIS INVOLVES THE PRESS, IT ACTUALLYLLBECOMES A STORY. AND THE PRESSBEGINS TO PILE ON, INVOKING . . .

RICHARD NIXON

… Which putsthe media in theuncomfortable

position of supporting Fox

News.

Friends

of

FOX

Friends

of

FOX

6.

2.

“It’s not the crime that kills

you—it’s the cover-up.”

“IT’S ALL DRIVEN BY RACISM.“

AND NOW, JUST WHEN IT SEEMS THAT THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION MIGHT BE IN REAL TROUBLE, WITH THE NEWS THAT THE N.S.A.

HAS BEEN TRACKING ALL OUR CELL-PHONE CALLS AND INTERNET USAGE . . . THE REPUBLICANS

OVERPLAY THEIR HAND BY

CALLING FOR

IMPEACHMENT.Thus making the G.O.P. the real issue here.

The Justice Department has tapped the A.P. And Fox News!

5. FOLLOWING THIS, JUST WHEN IT SEEMSIT’S ALL GOING TO DEVOLVE INTO PARTISAN

BICKERING, WE LEARN:

Review {Visiting Colonial Williamsburg!}

By: Sarah

09/07/2013

Colonial Williamsburg (which is a little over three hours from the DC-area) is one of my favorite places in the whole world! When I was in elementary school, a time when most normal kids dream about Disneyland or Six Flags, I was engrossed in my Grandma’s Williamsburg magazine subscription. Don’t ask me why – something about the people, lifestyle and heart-rending stories of that era just drew me in! So for my 12th birthday (and, several subsequent birthdays), my parents took me to Colonial Williamsburg, and it’s held a special place in my heart ever since. I’ve never outgrown my fascination with the rich history of the town, and married John because Williamsburg is a convenient half-way point between our home and his parents. (No, no, that’s not the only reason I married him! ) But, since we only have a few hours there every year, my Williamsburg craving has been intensifying. So, you can imagine my delight when we were recently offered a review stay!

http://www.capitallyfrugaldc.com/2013/09/07/visiting-colonial-williamsburg/


http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/

As we drove up to the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Suites, our home for the weekend, Miss A and I were bubbling over with excitement. We’ve stayed at the Woodlands before, and I love everything from their helpful staff to the refreshing lemon water in their lobby! Check-in was a breeze, and the front desk kindly offered to make our dinner reservations at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. One of the reasons I’m a huge fan of the Woodlands is its convenient distance to shuttle stops and the Williamsburg Visitor Center (it’s right next door!). Every 10 minutes, buses start their loop outside the Visitor Center and go throughout the Historic City (transportation is complimentary for those who have admission passes). Since my husband hates fighting traffic, this is a huge perk for him – he just parks the car and lets someone else worry about navigating the crowds for a weekend.



http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/stay/williamsburg-woodlands/

Once we got settled in our hotel room, we hopped on a bus and took a short ride to Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, because NO visit is complete without dining at one of Williamsburg’s Taverns. {Tip: if you’re exhausted, choose Christiana’s to eat, because the shuttle stops right outside!} It was John and Miss A’s first time at Christiana’s and they both said it was their favorite Williamsburg restaurant. After all, where else can you go to be simultaneously serenaded and given a history lesson as you eat? Our server, Howard, was fabulous – and, I’m not just saying that because he gave me an extra scoop of spoon bread. He spiced up our evening with bits of trivia (did you know that women couldn’t order dinner (or talk in public) in the 1700′s? I would never have made it in that era!). Christiana’s is known for its seafood, and their salmon, sweet potato muffins, and spoon bread are mouth-wateringly delicious! But, even more than the food, the ambiance and the 18th century chatter and music made it a remarkable evening.

The next day, we spent our afternoon in Colonial Williamsburg, exploring some of the neat historical buildings. Here are a few highlights:

:: R. Charlton’s Coffeehouse My husband’s ears perked up when he heard “coffeehouse” and he started running towards what he thought would be a Starbucks. Boy, was he in for a surprise! It turns out, back in 1766, Mr. Charlton’s coffeehouse was quite different from what we’re use to. In those days, “coffee” was really a code word for “water with lots of alcohol in it.” (In those days, the swamp water wasn’t very conducive to one’s health, so they had to add alcohol to get rid of any germs.) We were given a very informative tour, and at the end, we had a choice among complimentary coffee (in the modern day form ), tea, or hot chocolate! At first, Miss A wasn’t quite sure what to make of their hot chocolate (there was barely any sugar – just dark chocolate, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and orange) – but, she quickly adapted and I had to take away the cup before she started licking the sides.



http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/do/restaurants/historic-dining-taverns/

:: Raleigh Tavern and Bakery One of my favorite Colonial Williamsburg stops is Raleigh Tavern Bakery! You find a mouth-watering smorgasbord of 18th century treats like Queen’s Cake, Gingerbread, Turnovers, and Bread. Plus, you can purchase a mug that gives you free apple cider refills throughout your stay.

:: Silversmith and Miliner Also on the Duke of Gloucester Street, you’ll find the silversmith and miliner side by side. John loved watching the silversmiths work. They actually fashion bowls/spoons/chains/etc out of sheets of silver, while they tell you about life in the 1700′s. Back in those days, people took their life savings to their local silversmith and had them melt down their coins into useful objects, like silverware.

Of course, Miss A fell in love with the Miliner store, where three ladies were busily sewing a gorgeous taffeta ball gown. We also got to see the corsets children wore from the time they were twelve months old (it made my back hurt just thinking about it!).

:: Mary Dickinson Store If you have a little girl, I would suggest avoiding the Mary Dickinson Store if you’d like to keep your bank account intact. John & I decided beforehand to give Miss A a certain amount to spend during the weekend; and we were shocked when she went through Busch Garden’s Sesame Street stores without dropping a penny. But, all monetary restraint flew out the window as soon as she stepped foot in the Mary Dickinson Store, with its walls of hats, bonnets, fans, and girlish accessories. She did keep to her budget (she just spent it all on one item) and is now the proud owner of a white bonnet. The historical interpreters must know the signs of a little girl who just got a new bonnet, because they all complimented her head-wear throughout the afternoon. But, for her, the best part was one of the finely dressed ladies curtsying and saying, “good day, m’lady” as she floated past.

:: Merchant Square While these aren’t Colonial Williamsburg run stores, they are a part of Williamsburg’s Merchant Square. You have to visit The Cheese Shop, Wythe Candy Store, and the Peanut Shop. We always stop at The Cheese Shop on our way to North Carolina, head to the back of their store and order their amazing sandwiches. Most are between $6-$7, so it makes it both a delicious and affordable meal. {Tip: Keep an eye out for their bags of bread ends! A bag is only $1, and it makes a great snack on car rides!}

The Wythe Candy Store is any child’s dream. While we don’t purchase candy very often, it’s a neat experience to see the wall to wall candy dispensers. In fact, Miss A is always in such awe, she usually forgets to ask for a treat until after we leave. And, the Peanut Shop offers the famous Virginia peanuts. I think they are the best tasting – but, then again, I’m a little biased towards anything from Williamsburg!



If you’re visiting Williamsburg, especially for the first time, I highly suggest purchasing an Annual Pass(which are $63.95 for adults or $32 for youth, children under 6 are free) and staying at a Colonial Williamsburg hotel.

Single day tickets are $41.95 for adults and $20.95 for children, so if there is any chance you might be returning (i.e. if you don’t live in California!), the Annual Pass is definitely the way to go! While you can walk through the town for free, you’re not allowed to go into any of the homes/shops/exhibits without a pass. And, in my opinion, the historical interpreters are the ones who make the town come alive! {Tip:For those of you who live in the Williamsburg area, be sure to see if you qualify for an extremely discounted Good Neighbor Pass.}

I might be a little biased, but we’ve stayed at a Colonial Williamsburg hotel on all but one of our visits, and I love the perks that come with a Colonial Williamsburg hotel stay. Both the Governor’s Inn and the Woodlands include a buffet breakfast with your room costs (and, are in the $60-$125/night range), and it’s so nice to have door to door shuttle service. Plus, guests of the Colonial Williamsburg hotels can take advantage of a free shuttle to Busch Gardens/Water Country USA, which saves $15 in parking costs. {More on that in my Busch Garden review!}

Needless to say, we had a wonderful weekend at Colonial Williamsburg, and I’m already looking forward to our next visit!

I would love to hear if you’ve ever visited and/or your favorite historical site!

{Disclosure: Our family received a complimentary stay at Colonial Williamsburg, to help facilitate this review.}



http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/plan/tickets/ticket-options/

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/plan/tickets/ticket-options/

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/stay/

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/stay/

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/plan/tickets/pass-members/good-neighbor-pass/

NASCAR® Driver Kyle Busch visits Colonial Williamsburg

09.05.13

’s Revolutionary City received the visit of a special guest today: Kyle Busch, driver of No.18 M&M’s® Toyota Camry. In town for the upcoming Federated Auto Parts 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race taking place in Richmond on Saturday(September 7), Kyle and his wife, Samantha Busch, met with fans and partook in a colonial chocolate history demonstration with American Heritage Chocolate.

With the No. 18 M&M’s® Toyota Camry parked in Merchants Square, Kyle and Samantha explored the Revolutionary City by way of carriage ride, fired a cannon at the military encampment and interacted with interpreters and visitors alike.

The event was a result of the partnership between Colonial Williamsburg and Mars Chocolate North America with Richmond International Raceway. Launched this spring, the joint venture was created to share our country’s rich transportation and culinary history and celebrates the evolution of each through modern times.

http://www.catchfence.com/2013/sprintcup/09/05/nascar-driver-kyle-busch-visits-colonial-williamsburg/



http://www.rir.com/Tickets-Events/Event-Calendar/Fall-NSCS-2013.aspx

http://www.americanheritagechocolate.com/

#HistoryMeetsHorsepower: Kyle Busch in Colonial Williamsburg

By: Amy

09.06.13

One of my favorite things that come with races are the sponsor events that drivers do for fans. One that happened today in advance of Richmond looks so FUN I wish I had been there (ok I admit it I wish I had been there despite the event- but it still looks REALLY cool)! Kyle Busch and his wife Samantha as well as the #18 M&M’s Toyota Camry went to Colonial Williamsburg, VA! I would love to go to Colonial Williamsburg anyway but add to NASCAR?! That sounds PERFECT to me! It would be fun to juxtapose one century with another I think! One of these days I am going to finagle an interview with Kyle for BadGroove!

Here are some pictures from the event:

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation President and CEO Colin Campbell, Kyle Busch, driver of No.18 M&M’s® Toyota Camry, and his wife Samantha in front of the Kimball Theatre in Colonial Williamsburg’s

Merchants Square. (Photo Credit: Grant Halverson for Colonial Williamsburg).

http://www.badgroove.com/index.php/2013/09/05/historymeetshorsepower-kyle-busch-in-colonial-williamsburg/



Colonial Williamsburg Executive Chef Rhys Lewis and Samantha Busch melt American Heritage Chocolate onstage at the Kimball Theatre. (Photo Credit: Grant Halverson for Colonial Williamsburg)

Kyle and Samantha Busch wear official tricorn hats for their carriage ride through Colonial Williamsburg’s Revolutionary City. (Photo Credit: Grant Halverson for Colonial Williamsburg)

Kyle and Samantha Busch sign autographs and meet with fans in Merchants Square. (Photo Credit: Grant Halverson for Colonial Williamsburg)




“KYLE BUSCH – ‘History Meets Horsepower’ at Richmond”

09.04.13

Before Kyle Busch heads to Richmond (Va.) International Raceway for Saturday night’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Federated Auto Parts 400 behind the wheel of his No. 18 M&M’s/American Heritage Chocolate Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), he’ll make a stopover Thursday in historic Colonial Williamsburg to take a turn at a different kind of horsepower.

Busch’s visit to Williamsburg is part of the “History Meets Horsepower” program – a unique partnership between Colonial Williamsburg, Richmond International Raceway and Mars Chocolate North America with its American Heritage Chocolate brand. The three parties have come together to celebrate our country’s storied transportation past and rich culinary history, showcasing the evolution of both through modern times. As a part of his visit, Busch is scheduled to meet with fans in Merchants Square, take part in a colonial chocolate history demonstration by American Heritage Chocolate, and explore the “Revolutionary City” with his wife Samantha. And, at the racetrack this weekend, Busch’s No. 18 M&M’s/American Heritage Toyota will be adorned with the American Heritage logo in addition to the usual colorful M&M’s paint scheme to celebrate the unique and exciting partnership.

While Thursday’s visit to Colonial Williamsburg will involve riding in horse-drawn carriages, Busch will quickly transition back to horsepower of a different variety for Saturday night’s 26th and final race of the Sprint Cup’s regular season.

Busch sits in an entirely different position than a year ago when he arrived at the 2012 fall race at Richmond on the bubble for making the 12-driver, 10-race Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship. Last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, not only did Busch lock himself into this year’s Chase, he did so by winning his fourth race of the season. Busch’s Atlanta win also marked two other significant milestones – it was his 100th overall NASCAR victory in a Toyota in NASCAR’s top three series (Sprint Cup, Nationwide and Camping World Truck), and it was the manufacturer’s 250th overall NASCAR win in those three divisions combined.

Heading into the weekend, let’s not forget that Busch’s record at Richmond is not too shabby. The Las Vegas native has won four of the last five spring events from 2009 through 2012 at the .75-mile oval.

http://checkupracing.com/2013/09/04/kyle-busch-history-meets-horsepower-richmond/


And his Richmond resume also includes four runner-up finishes and an amazing 12 top-fives in just 17 career Sprint Cup starts in Virginia’s capital city.

That gives Busch an average finishing position of 6.5 at Richmond, tops among all active drivers, including JGR teammate and Virginia native Denny Hamlin, whose average finish is 8.1. Busch has completed all but one of the 6,815 laps available to him in his 17 Richmond starts. Of those laps completed, Busch has run in the top-15 for 5,934 (87.1 percent) of them – second-most among active drivers at the track.

So while the focus will shift from horse-drawn carriages at the start of the weekend to 750-horsepower racecars at track, Busch will hope that when history meets horsepower this weekend, the combination will result in his fifth Sprint Cup win at Richmond with NASCAR’s postseason next on the docket.



NASCAR's Kyle Busch pits in Colonial Williamsburg

09.05.13

Kyle Busch

NASCAR's Kyle Busch pits in Colonial Williamsburg Daily Press Thursday afternoon, it was the M&M's Toyota Camry of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch that made an appearance in Merchants Square as part of Colonial Williamsburg's "History Meets Horsepower" promotion. Several hundred fans packed the street in front of the ...

Kimball Theatre to get a glimpse of one of NASCAR's top drivers. The program is a collaboration between Colonial Williamsburg, Mars Chocolate North American and Richmond International Raceway to help promote tourism in Virginia. Thursday's event included a colonial chocolate history demonstration with American Heritage Chocolate.

Busch's wife, Samantha, participated in the presentation, which included making chocolate truffles with Colonial Williamsburg executive chef Rhys Lewis, and preparing Samantha's recipe for homemade chocolate bark.

"This is great," Kyle Busch said following the cooking presentation. "Colonial Williamsburg, I've never been to before. This is my first time visiting, so I'm sort of getting the lay of the land and seeing what there is to see."

Kyle Busch and his wife spent time signing autographs before walking down to the capital to check out an installment of Revolutionary City. He also made a stop at the magazine, where he was to fire a cannon.

"It's been a pretty interesting deal so far and there's still plenty more to see," Busch said. "It's a cool

http://www.nascarnewslive.com/news/nascars-kyle-busch-pits-colonial-williamsburg


http://www.dailypress.com/sports/va-vg-sprt-kylebuschatcw-0907-20130907,0,5066894.story


http://www.dailypress.com/topic/us/virginia/richmond-county-%28virginia%29/richmond-%28richmond-virginia%29-PLGEO1001011104010000.topic

opportunity for history to meet horsepower for some great NASCAR fans in the area to get to see our car, of course against a horse and buggy."

Busch has been impressive since joining the NASCAR Sprint Cup circuit full time in 2005. He has 28 career wins, including a victory last week at Atlanta to secure a spot in the Chase for the championship. This year, he has four wins and 11 top-five finishes.

"The year has gone pretty well for us generally, but having the success that we had last weekend in Atlanta went well," Busch said. "It's good to get some wins late in the year to get us prepared for the Chase. We're looking forward to final 11 weeks here, starting in Richmond and going on through the Chase."

Busch said missing the Chase last year made him a better driver.

"Last year was pretty devastating for us," he said. "We had to go through the final weeks just racing for wins and to see if we could get to 13th in points.

"We learned a lot through the championship run, being able to sort of put ourselves in the Chase to see how we stack up against the competition," he continued. "Even with an engine failure at Loudoun (New Hampshire) and the crash we had in Kansas, we would've finished third in the championship. That wasn't too bad, considering how our year was."

Busch is looking forward to this weekend at a track that's been one of his favorites.

"Something fits well for us," he said of Richmond. "It's kind of a quick weekend. You practice, qualify, and then you race."



FOX SPORTS 1

9.6.13

NASCAR driver Kyle Busch highlighted his visit to Colonial Williamsburg in an interview with FOX SPORTS The segment featured footage of his appearance to the Revolutionary City and mentioned the History Meets Horsepower event.

http://bit.ly/15J9tfq

http://bit.ly/15J9tfq

History Meets Horsepower in Colonial Williamsburg

09.05.2013

History Meets Horsepower in Colonial Williamsburg In This Photo: Kyle Busch, Samantha Busch Kyle Busch, driver of No.18 M&M"s Toyota Camry, visits Colonial Williamsburg with his wife Samantha Busch

prior to competing at Richmond International Raceway to kick off the History Meets Horsepower program with American Heritage Chocolate on September 5, 2013 in Williamsburg, Virginia. The

partnership was created to share our country"s rich transportation and culinary history and celebrates the evolution of each through modern times.

Kyle Busch ‘History Meets Horsepower’ at Richmond

By: Steven B. Wilson

09.04.13

http://speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/sprint-cup-series-news/item/12814-kyle-busch-history-meets-horsepower-at-richmond



NASCAR’s Kyle Busch Visits Colonial Williamsburg

By: Will Armbruster

09.06.2013

NASCAR driver Kyle Busch made a pit stop Thursday afternoon in Williamsburg where he and his wife, Samantha, met fans, signed autographs and took a carriage ride through the historic area of Colonial Williamsburg.

The inaugural ‘History Meets Horsepower” was hosted as part of a newly formed partnership between Colonial Williamsburg, Mars Chocolate North America and Richmond International Raceway.

The event began inside the Kimball Theatre on Duke of Gloucester Street where American Heritage chocolate – a division of Mars chocolate – demonstrated how chocolate was made during the Colonial era with the help of CW’s historical interpreters. Rodney Snyder, director of chocolate history research for Mars Chocolate North America, explained the process as the aroma of chocolate filled the theater.

http://wydaily.com/2013/09/06/nascars-kyle-busch-visits-colonial-williamsburg/


Colonial Williamsburg Executive Chef Rhys Lewis and Samantha Busch followed with a presentation of S. Busch’s personal “chocolate bark” recipe and also made chocolate torte.

After the presentation inside the theatre, chocolate samples were provided outside while Kyle, sitting next to his wife and No. 18 M&M’s car, met with fans and signed autographs.

Later, Kyle and his wife joined two lucky contest winners for a carriage ride through Colonial Williamsburg. Accompanied by a historic guide, the four passengers traveled down Duke of Gloucester Street, past the Armory and R. Charlton’s Coffehouse before firing cannons and the military encampment.



WAVY-TV

9.6.13

History Meets Horsepower aired on the 6 o’clock news this evening, highlighting NASCAR driver Kyle Busch’s visit to the Revolutionary City. The segment features photos from his appearance and mentions that he took photos with fans and Mr. Campbell.

http://bit.ly/15CIBDU

http://bit.ly/15CIBDU

The Daily Press, September 6, 2013

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The Virginia Gazette September 7, 2013

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Homeschool Days at Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center

9/6/13

Homeschool families can take advantage of hands-on history lessons September 7-22 at Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center.

Programs at the two museums coincide with Colonial Williamsburg "Homeschool Experience." New this year are 90-minute theme tours with topics ranging from “People, Plants and Animals” and “Coats of Arms” at Jamestown Settlement to “Garden to Table” and “Uniforms, Art and War” at the Yorktown Victory Center. Theme tours are available on Sept. 11 and Sept. 18 for an additional fee.

Homeschool tickets are $12 per family member and provide unlimited admission to Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center from Sept. 7 to Sept. 22. The option to pre-register for hands-on classroom programs and family guided tours of the museums’ outdoor living-history areas, such as the Continental Army Encampment and replica 1607 ships, at no additional cost is also available to ticket holders.

Families with tickets can also take part in colonial games from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays (September 7, 14 and 21) at Jamestown Settlement and on Sundays (September 8, 15 and 22) at the Yorktown Victory Center.

Classroom programs last 90 minutes and addressVirginia Standards of Learning and national curriculum objectives for history and social studies. Students can enroll in one of four programs for their grade level at each museum based on availability of space.

Preschool-Kindergarten

http://www.vagazette.com/news/va-vg-homeschool-days-begin-saturday-at-jamestown-settlement-and-yorktown-victory-center-20130906,0,6856052.story



http://www.vagazette.com/topic/arts-culture/culture/jamestown-settlement-PLCUL000166.topic

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http://www.vagazette.com/topic/arts-culture/culture/colonial-williamsburg-PLCUL000138.topic

http://www.vagazette.com/topic/education/academic-progress/standards-of-learning-OREDU0000511.topic

Little Powhatans, Jamestown Settlement – Students take part in fun hands-on activities to learn how Powhatan Indians used natural resources for food, shelter and clothing, and then visit the re-created Powhatan Indian village to play period games. Dates/Times: September 9, 12, 16 and 19 (10:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m.)

Little Farmers, Yorktown Victory Center – Students learn about life as a child on an 18th-century farm following the Revolution, including clothing, cooking and chores, and then visit the re-created farm to play colonial games. Dates/Times: September 10, 13, 17 and 20 (10:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m.)

Grades 1-2

Powhatan Indian World, Jamestown Settlement– Students handle and analyze clothing, bone tools and pottery of the Powhatan Indian culture and visit the re-created Powhatan Indian village to learn about food preparation and preservation. Dates/Times: September 9, 12, 16 and 19 (9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:15 p.m.)

Colonial Life, Yorktown Victory Center – Students explore daily chores, responsibilities and decisions on a small Tidewater Virginia farm and then visit the re-created farm to help prepare food the colonial way. Dates/Times: September 10, 13, 17 and 20 (9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:15 p.m.)

Grades 3-6

Life at Jamestown, Jamestown Settlement – Students analyze artifacts and documents to learn about the daily life and struggles of the Jamestown colony and participate in a fort scavenger hunt to locate items that helped the colonists survive. Dates/Times: September 9, 12, 16 and 19 (9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:15 p.m.)

Life of a Private, Yorktown Victory Center – Students examine reasons colonists joined the Patriot cause and the conditions experienced by soldiers during the war and then take part in military drills in the re-created Continental Army encampment. Dates/Times: September 10, 13, 17 and 20 (9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:15 p.m.)

Grades 7-12

Voyage to Virginia, Jamestown Settlement – Students learn about the 1607 voyage to Virginia by exploring period navigational tools and dead-reckoning methods and taking part in lifting and lading cargo aboard a re-created ship. Dates/Times:September 9, 12, 16 and 19 (10:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m.)

Revolution and the New Nation, Yorktown Victory Center – Students examine the meaning and significance of America’s founding documents and participate in “The Price of Liberty” role-playing activity to determine if they would have joined the Continental Army. Dates/Times: September 10, 13, 17 and 20 (10:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m.)

Family Guided Tours of Outdoor Living-History Areas




http://www.vagazette.com/topic/us/virginia/jamestown-county/jamestown-%28jamestown-virginia%29-PLGEO100101163010000.topic

Jamestown Settlement – A two-hour, hands-on history tour includes visits to outdoor re-creations of a Powhatan Indian village, three 1607 ships and colonial fort, and a riverfront discovery area. Dates/Times: September 9, 11, 12, 16, 18, and 19 (10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.)

Yorktown Victory Center – A two-hour, hands-on history tour includes visits to outdoor re-creations of a Continental Army encampment and 1780s farm. Dates/Times:September 10, 11, 13, 17, 18 and 20 (10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.)

Additional Guided Theme Tours: September 11 and 18 (10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.)

Grades K-3: “People, Plants and Animals,” Jamestown Settlement – Use your senses while touring gallery exhibits and outdoor living-history areas and playing a habitat game to discover plants and animals that shared the environment with Powhatan, English and African inhabitants. Additional Fee: $5.

Grades K-3: “Garden to Table,” Yorktown Victory Center – Weed and water the re-created Tidewater Virginia farm kitchen garden while identifying common herbs and vegetables and make a print or collage of plants found in the garden. Additional Fee:$5.

Grades 4 and older: “Coats of Arms,” Jamestown Settlement – Discover clues of early colonists’ status and identity in portraits and artifacts in the museum galleries and make your own coat of arms. Additional Fee: $5.

Grades 4 and older: “Uniforms, Art and War,” Yorktown Victory Center – Examine portraits and artifacts in the museum galleries to learn about various Revolutionary War uniforms, drill and march in the re-created Continental Army camp and make your own framed military artwork. Additional Fee: $5.

The registration deadline for classroom programs and guided tours is 5 p.m. three business days prior to the program or tour. Homeschool programs are offered twice a year, and the next session will be held on March 8-16, 2014. For information or to register, contact Group Reservations at 253-4939 or toll-free (888) 868-7593, or visithttp://www.historyisfun.org/homeschool-program.htm.




http://www.historyisfun.org/homeschool-program.htm

NASCAR's Kyle Busch pits in Colonial Williamsburg

By: John Harvey

09.06.13

History Meets Horsepower Colonial Williamsburg president Colin Campbell poses with NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and his wife

Samantha. (Colonial Williamsburg /September 5, 2013)



History Meets Horsepower Samantha Busch helps Colonial Williamsburg chef Rhys Lewis prepare a chocolate dish.(Colonial

Williamsburg /September 5, 2013)



History Meets Horsepower

Colonial Williamsburg president Colin Campbell poses with NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and his wife Samantha. (Colonial Williamsburg /September 5, 2013)




Kyle Busch's number 18 M&M's car was on display outside the Kimball Theater in Colonial Williamsburg Thursday during a promotional stop. Busch and his wife Samantha took pictures with fans and signed

autographs. (Rob Ostermaier / Daily Press /September 5, 2013)


NASCAR driver Kyle Busch signs autographs outside in Merchants Square Thursday during a promotional stop in Colonial Williamsburg. (Rob Ostermaier / Daily Press /September 5, 2013)




Visitors in Merchants Square look over Kyle Busch's No.18 M&M's Toyota Camry Wednesday afternoon. (Courtesy of Jay Diedzic /September 5, 2013)


NASCAR driver Kyle Busch poses for photos with Aiden Duffy and his dad Maj. Peter Duffy during a promotional stop at Merchants Square in Williamsburg Thursday. (Rob Ostermaier / Daily

Press/September 5, 2013)



History Meets Horsepower The trailer hauling Kyle Busch's No.18 M&M's Toyota Camry parked on Duke of Gloucester Wednesday

to offload the car. (Courtesy of Jay Diedzic /September 5, 2013)

WILLIAMSBURG— For most of the year, the common mode of transportation along Duke of Gloucester Street is a horse and buggy.

Thursday afternoon, it was the M&M's Toyota Camry of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch that made an appearance in Merchants Square as part of Colonial Williamsburg's "History Meets Horsepower" promotion.

Several hundred fans packed the street in front of the Kimball Theatre to get a glimpse of one of NASCAR's top drivers.

The program is a collaboration between Colonial Williamsburg, Mars Chocolate North American and Richmond International Raceway to help promote tourism in Virginia. Thursday's event included a colonial chocolate history demonstration with American Heritage Chocolate.





http://www.dailypress.com/topic/sports/auto-racing/kyle-busch-PESPT000009538.topic

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"It's been a pretty interesting deal so far and there's still plenty more to see," Busch said. "It's a cool opportunity for history to meet horsepower for some great NASCAR fans in the area to get to see our car, of course against a horse and buggy."










“NASCAR's Kyle Busch makes a pit stop in Colonial Williamsburg”

By: John Harvey

09.05.13

WILLIAMSBURG— For most of the year, the common mode of transportation along Duke of Gloucester Street is a horse and buggy.

Thursday afternoon, it was the M&M's Toyota Camry of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch that made an appearance in Merchants Square as part of Colonial Williamsburg's "History Meets Horsepower" promotion.

Several hundred fans packed the street in front of the Kimball Theatre to get a glimpse of one of NASCAR's top drivers.

The program is a collaboration between Colonial Williamsburg, Mars Chocolate North American and Richmond International Raceway to help promote tourism in Virginia. Thursday's event included a colonial chocolate history demonstration with American Heritage Chocolate.




"It's been a pretty interesting deal so far and there's still plenty more to see," Busch said. "It's a cool opportunity for history to meet horsepower for some great NASCAR fans in the area to get to see our car, of course against a horse and buggy."

http://www.vagazette.com/sports/va-vg-sprt-kylebuschatcw-0907-20130907,0,3957380.story


http://www.vagazette.com/topic/sports/auto-racing/kyle-busch-PESPT000009538.topic

http://www.vagazette.com/topic/arts-culture/culture/colonial-williamsburg-PLCUL000138.topic

http://www.vagazette.com/topic/us/virginia/richmond-county-%28virginia%29/richmond-%28richmond-virginia%29-PLGEO1001011104010000.topic

The Virginia Gazette, September 7, 2013

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“At your service”

By: Leslie Roman-Williams

09/08/2013

Hotel concierges are key to guest satisfaction

Finally, the Big Day has arrived.

You’re scheduled to leave your hotel shortly for the ceremony, but disaster looms: Your bow tie is not a snap-on and you don’t know how to tie it. Aunt Maude learned her canine companion won’t be welcomed at the venue. Plus no one remembered to book transportation.

A hotel concierge can take care of all that—and more—quickly.

http://www.timesdispatch.com/entertainment-life/weddings-celebrations/articles/at-your-service/article_700b12c6-119c-11e3-80a9-0019bb30f31a.html



Jeanita Harris, a 27-year associate and guest services director of The Jefferson Hotel, said, "It’s wonderful to be able to make things happen for a guest; the instant gratification." Requests to a concierge (derived from French as "keeper of the candles") include making restaurant reservations, recommending cultural activities, and scheduling transportation, but these highly-trained individuals are ready for anything, any time.

"We are ambassadors, not just for the hotel, but for Richmond," said Harris, noting The Jefferson is also "a community hotel." With local residents attending Sunday brunches, celebratory dinners, weddings, business and political events, "We become their family because we know exactly what they are looking for. We get to know them and they get to know what we have here." That includes literally stepping out of shoes: "A guest may realize, ‘I forgot to pack my shoes.’ What size are you? Okay, put a little paper in




the toe." Other rescues involve picking up tuxedos and delivering left-behind luggage or passports to the airport.

A concierge is "truly a multitasking person; must be," Harris explained, who works two phones while maintaining guest eye contact and reading body language. "You are on the phone with several guests in front of you, guests checking in or running towards you for a taxi. Keep in mind, they’re late!"

Even guests on tight schedules "want to do it all," said Harris, so "keep asking questions. A key question is ‘How much time do you have?’ and find out interests." Some would love the State Capitol tour; others prefer boutique shopping. Staff must be "well versed. They have to get out. In order to be able to give a guest a sincere answer, you have to know what’s there; you must be current and use your resources." For guests with shopping needs outside business hours, "We’ve called a local store and they’ve opened. We’ll escort the guest, wait and bring them back."

When someone asked to "pull a room together" for a special occasion, a concierge located battery-operated candles, spread rose petals on the bed, dimmed lights, and put on soft music—all with 20 minutes’ notice. "We do a lot of surprises," Harris said, and are "empowered to do what it takes to make the guest happy."

If someone mentions she’s not feeling well, a concierge may send up tea or ginger ale and crackers. Callers needing directions enroute to an anniversary dinner could be surprised with a complimentary dessert. A walk-in visitor experiences the same level of hospitality as a registered guest. "Even though they are not staying with us, when they come in the door, they are our guest," Harris emphasized. Staff is accustomed to performing "the concierge shuffle. There is a lot behind that smile, behind the scenes. This is what we’re here for."

Joni Stevens recently retired as head concierge at the Williamsburg Inn, and since 2007 has been a member of the prestigious concierge organization Les Clefs d’Or (gold keys).

"From my love of history to my first visit to Williamsburg as a teenager, I wanted to work there. The Inn is such a piece of Americana with its understated elegance and Southern hospitality; I was delighted to be chosen as a concierge." Stevens noted, "We are problem solvers and great listeners. We are happy to suggest the perfect place to propose marriage, have a family dinner, purchase gifts, help with travel plans to their next destination or select a service at the spa.

"We make introductory calls to our guests approximately 10 days prior to their arrival, so they are familiar with our services. These pre-visit calls are a way to assist with ticket and dining reservations but also find out if they are celebrating a special occasion while staying with us. Many times we learn of food allergies, physical impairments or other special needs which are passed on to all departments before they check in, thus making their stay far more memorable from the start. We make everyone feel comfortable from the moment they step in to our office. We have a lovely room and, after introducing ourselves, we invite our guests to sit down and talk with us, thus putting them very much at ease."




Stevens mentioned the "extensive training period for using the various computer programs as well as spending time in Revolutionary City as a visitor, so we have firsthand knowledge of offerings. Each of us records every guest request in a notebook so we can refer back to it at any time. It’s also a great way to remember our guests’ names and what their requests were, so when we see them later we can ask specifics about their stay."

Some guests, famous or otherwise, presented unique needs:

• "One well-known actor asked for assistance in locating upscale antique shops. On her day off, a concierge drove him around, (and) he made several purchases."

• "Prior to Her Majesty’s (Queen Elizabeth II) 2007 visit, a senior member of her staff asked if I knew whether the queen’s gown in 1957 was beige or light blue. Apparently she has two similar dresses. The only photos we have are in black and white, so I called Mr. Nat Reid, who was on the staff (then) and asked him if he remembered what color her evening dress was. He immediately said ‘she was a vision in champagne.’ I was thrilled to place a return phone call to Buckingham Palace with the information."

• "I have tied engagement rings on limbs of the Christmas tree in the East Lounge and then stood guard until I heard the couple coming down the hallway."

• "With the help of the executive chef, I transported a $10,000 diamond necklace to Christiana Campbell’s tavern with instructions on how to make a teepee out of sugar straws and hang the necklace inside."

• "We located and arranged for shipment of a Civil War cannon from an antique shop in Petersburg to Missouri."

"Our motto has always been ‘we are ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen.’ When one enjoys his or her job, this task becomes easy."




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the colonial williamsburg foundation earned media coverage - september 13, 2013

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