All hopes of a continued mild winter were quickly dashed with the arrival of February. Sub freezing temps were the norm and the snow gods got their revenge. Hopefully the daily temps will begin to rise throughout March setting us up for a great spring. With spring on our minds we decided to put some flowers on the cover this month…just to brighten things up. We had snow on both the January and February covers, so maybe this one will bring spring weather.

Doug Coleman takes us to Petersburg in his installment of the Civil War 150 years ago. Prior to WWI, this was the beginning of the horrors of trench warfare. The Union has tightened its grip on the south and the Battle of Appomattox Court House is only a month away. Will the war be over, or just the fighting? Let’s see where Doug takes us in the future. With spring in our hearts our Road Trip this month is to Sperryville and Little Washington, Virginia. Red buds may soon be blooming to welcome spring, which arrives March 20^th. Our Personality Profile features artisan and furniture maker, Peter Kramer of Little Washington, and he has a lot of personality to share. If you have a sweet tooth, check out this month’s Business Profile…fleurir Chocolates – “probably the most delicious box of chocolates you have ever eaten.”

With March comes St. Patrick’s Day (and my birthday). The festivities kick off with the 32^nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Old Town on March 7^th and there are things to do until March 17^th.…St. Patrick’s Day. Be sure to get your Irish on at O’Connell’s, Murphy’s, and Fiona’s.

Don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead an hour on March 8^th for daylight savings time. See…..spring isn’t far away.

Written by: Bob Tagert