After our announcement last month, I trust that you all have put the above dates on your calendar and will be attending the campout. This will be at Pat Hickock's back-yard camp-out at her White Post Farm outside of Berkley Springs, West Virginia.

We always get a great group of members on this weekend. However, it seems to be (for the most part) the same ones year after year. That in itself is a good testament however and perhaps those of you who haven't been should consider why those who have keep coming back for more. Could it be the great ride out from our city environs (roughly two hours) to the beautiful West Virginia countryside?

Could it be Pat and Linda Stoddard ’s truly exceptional cooking, along with Pat’s son on the grill? Could it be the relaxed, laid-back atmosphere of Berkeley Springs? Could it be antiquing in town for those so-inclined, a massage at the State-run spa, or the camp-fire with s'mores after dinner on Saturday night as we lounge outside? Hard to say for sure but, on the whole, it is a great experience for all.

Only a few details you need to know: You do need a tent and sleeping bag (even in August you can expect cool weather overnight). An air mattress is also much appreciated. This is modified camping because Pat lets us use her bathroom facilities inside. If you still really, really don't want to sleep outside, you can bring your camper or stay in town at one of the hotels (see details in last month's Spark). You don't have to cook anything, but you will owe Pat $12 which covers a super dinner Saturday night and a fantastic brunch on Sunday. Kids get off for $5. Consider bringing along a flashlight and some insect repellant, although the bugs are usually not bad. And (very important), you do need to let Pat know if you plan to attend so she can prepare the right amount of too much food.

Just call Al Marks 540-869-4330, Linda Stoddard 540-635-2939 or Pat Hickock 304-258-9412.

Based on my own experience from last year, I suspect if you do decide to go to Pat’s, you may well become one of the repeat customers in following years. Warning!

There are a few side effects:

These side-effects generally dissipate within a few days however. If they don't, see your doctor or join the select few who have moved to Berkeley Springs or it surrounding country.

Directions:

From Virginia: Route 7 or 50 west towards Winchester. Then take 1-81 north to Exit 317 (Rte 37 to Romney, Berkeley Springs). Then look for a right exit to take Rte 522 north. Then go 15.2 miles to turn right onto Rte 694 (Liberty Gas Station on left). Right at T-intersection in Unger (5 miles); then 3 miles to White Post Farm which is the second house on left after passing the fire station.

Alternatively, you may take I-66 west to 1-81 north and then follow the above directions starting at I-81 Exit 310 (Rte 37 to Romney, Berkeley Springs).

From Maryland: Take 1-270 towards Frederick and then get on 1-70 west towards Hagerstown. Then take 1-81 south. Take the Rte 9 west exit at Martinsburg to Berkeley Springs (about 30 minutes). Turn left onto Rte. 522 south at Sheetz Gas Station. Go about 2 miles, turn left onto Winchester Grade Road. Then go about nine miles or so. Once you see a school and observatory on the left, it's almost exactly a mile to Pat's house on the right. If you see a fire station on the right, you've gone two houses too far.

I hope to see you there!