Front Porch Fredericksburg May 2024

3hannah lee grounded in ethics

22roshan dangol acclaimed nepali artist

28meghan cohn found her niche in rescue

Porch talk

4 on the porch...life in fredericksburg messages

6cannes meet fxbg: film fest comes to town

7everything green: everything is green!

8In the Garden: more than just plants

9growing & crawling: goddess to garden

10 for mom’s day shake up something special

11new parking regs

12tidbits...small bites of local news

13 season’s bounty: fragaria x dnanassa

15vino: do you know, ah shenandoah?

16-17Calendar of Events

18history’s stories: may day

19 bicentennial of lafayette fxbg visit

20mental health: workplace anxiety

21 Emancipated patients: missing my patients

23Rock around the block

24art in the burg ...galleries in May

25artist spotlight...kimberly zook

26auto known better: snippets of whippets

27tribute to mothers

29astrology & you poetryman: our marriage

30fredericksburg sketches

5 gary goose ...Do’s & Don’t

14 allman’s & billiken’s...best bbq in nova

31 johnny johnson mural restoration

Cover: “Gary the Goose”, By Sonja petersen

Hannah Lee grounded in ethics and moral considerations

When University of Mary Washington senior Hannah Lee bought her first pair of scrubs at the start of her college career, she couldn't have known that - wash after wash - she'd be pulling them on four years later, for the same volunteer job.

"Being able to provide care for people who are unable to access it was something that touched my heart," said Lee, a biochemistry major who donates her time at a free clinic

As her moral compass synced with her medical work, it clicked on campus, too. She joined the Honor Council, trumpeting UMW values and rising to the role of president this year. Her drive took a similar direction in the classroom, where she discovered the sociological side of healthcare, added a practical ethics minor to her course load and gained early admission to med school through the Honors Program.

Her capstone project - a study of how people's health affects their

By Lisa Chinn Marvashti

propensity to do the right thing - brings together her passions, she said. "It's really a culmination of everything I've learned at Mary Washington so far."

From Fairfax, Virginia, Lee had been eyeing out-of-state schools, but with COVID covering the globe when it was time to commit, she wanted to stick closer to home. Her brother, then a UMW junior, helped her explore campus, especially the Jepson Science Center , which was undergoing a state-of-the-art renovation. That, coupled with Mary Washington's strong pre-health program and small size, won her over.

"I thought it seemed like a great place to build a community," Lee said.

Joining Honor Council was the first step. She began championing UMW's Honor Code promise - not to lie, cheat or steal - across campus and weaving the charge into her personal life. As president, she speaks to new students preparing to make the pledge, attends conduct hearings and reports to the Board of Visitors. All with a sense of care.

"It's my job to make sure that no one is letting their emotions overtake them and that everyone understands that this isn't so easy," said Lee, who's also active with Circle K International and COAR, and plays violin in the Philharmonic Orchestra

In class, she plunged into research with a first-year Phage Hunters course, presenting UMW's findings at a national symposium. "Being able to do that as a freshman is something I could have never imagined," said Lee, who also took part in the Summer Science Institute Electives in ceramics, piano and digital studies gave her a break from

biochemistry and a chance to recharge. But it was a sociology course exploring moral considerations in healthcare that led to her minor in practical ethics. "I wanted to learn more about dilemmas in life in general," she said, "not just in medicine."

Yet healthcare - especially providing for the underserved - is what's in her heart. This fall, she'll head to The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, to pursue both a medical degree and a master's degree in public health.

Sometime during her college career, Lee also splurged on a second set of scrubs. Good thing; she's going to need them.

"At the center of her inquiry is a sincere concern for the mental health of her fellow students," said Professor of Sociology Tracy Citeroni, Lee's capstone advisor. "She approached the material with the eye of a future clinician whose practice will be explicitly grounded in ethics and moral considerations."

Hannah Lee is the recipient of the Judith A Crissman Scholarship in Chemistry and the James E Baker University - Community Orchestra Scholarship

Lisa Chinn Marvashti Director of Media & Public Relations Photo by K. Pearlman Photography

UMW senior Hannah Lee poses with Professor Emerita of Chemistry Judy Crissman

Patrick Neustatter Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists

Rita Allan

Sally Cooney Anderson

Dianne BachmanSonja Cantu

Mayo CarterCollette Caprara

Gary CloseRyan Cudahy

Janet DouberlyRee Drumond

Jeannie EllisEm Ford

Frank FratoeBill Freehling

Luna GreensteinKathleen Harrigan

Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

John McMahonLisa Chinn Marvashti

Nancy KellyDavid C. Kennedy

Ray Mikula

Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy

Vanessa Moncure Pete Morelewicz

Patrick NeustatterK. Pearlman

Sonja PetersenPaula Raudenbush

Rob RudickMandy Smith

Rim ViningCatherine K. Walker

Tina WillNorma Woodward

Front Porch Fredericksburg is a free circulation magazine published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co. Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher.

The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people.

Messages from our readers are welcome. All article submissions must be received by e-mail by the 16th & calendar items the 19th of the month preceding publication.

Writers / Artists / Photographers are welcome to request Guidelines and query the Publisher by e-mail.

Front Porch Fredericksburg

PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403

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The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers.

Copyright 2024

Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine All rights reserved.

ON THE PORCH save moss free clinic

By patrick neustatter

When our wonderful leader/editor, Virginia Grogan, emailed me saying "Hi Patrick perhaps May is the perfect month for your guest editorial pitch for Moss Clinic?" I was happy to have the opportunity.

I have always understood this editorial to be a comment on some aspect of the Fredericksburg community. The part of that community I now get to write about - and who I worry about as I think their care is in jeopardy - is the so called "medically indigent."

How

I Got Here

I trained as a doctor in England, then came to the US in 1982. Moved to Fredericksburg in 1986 and joined a practice. Then I started to find there are people who don't get the healthcare they need because they can't afford insuranceand of course can't afford the outrageous medical bills they would have to pay out of pocket.

These are the Medically Idigent

Growing up with the British National Health Service where everyone has access to medical care and people don't finish up bankrupt because they get sick, I was a bit dismayed about what happens to indigent patients.

Then I Discovered the Moss Clinic

A free clinic for people whose income is below the Federal poverty guidelines, and who don't have insurance (except for Medicaid now since Virginia expanded coverage - prompted by the Affordable Care Act). It was started by a group spearheaded by local internist, Dr Lloyd (Jeppy) Moss, in 1993 after a state sponsored study highlighted the need.

I started volunteering at the evening clinic while in practice. Then when I retired (or tried to) in 2010, I became volunteer Medical Director - enjoying the grandeur of the title, but mainly intent on supporting the mission.

The Crux

Treating people with no money is not a good business model. The Medicaid remuneration is pretty insignificant, so effectively we have no income Rather the clinic is dependent on the largess of the community

In 2004 this took the form of a capital campaign run by Mary Washington Hospital Foundation that raised an impressive $10 million. But now those funds are running out.

As a result, Mary Washington Healthcare offered to take over the clinic, but concerned about exactly what services would be available to our patients, the Fredericksburg Area Regional Health Council that is the board of the clinic, rejected that offer - and things between the two bodies have got a little frosty since.

Who's To Blame?

There has been some finger pointing and exchange of accusations about who did what, and who was right and who was wrong. But I'm not sure discussion of this is very constructive.

I would make the point, however, that this is a bit of a David and Goliath when it comes to finances.

The hospital's 990 tax form from 2022 puts total assets just north of $211 million. They are spending $10 million on their residents Graduate Medical Education program They have submitted plans for a multi-million-dollar build-out of Snowden House and a new conference center and clinic where Kid's Station is located. The total pay package of the MWHC executives is reported as $12 million a year (the CEO receiving $1,850,329 in 2022, $2,181,797 in 2021).

This while adding an extra $200,000 odd to the clinics running costs by withdrawing "in kind" services and changing the terms of the lease on the clinic building - which is owned by MWHC.

There are people who point out that, as MWHC is a non-profit (meaning they don't pay taxes) there is a legal and a moral obligation to provide "community benefit" to the region it serves. Their defense is they provide support for other organizations that provides care to the medically indigent (other free clinics, community health clinics, and the residency program). Also that with the expansion of Medicaid, and the numerous private practitioners in town the medically indigent patients can be taken care of.

The board and clinic staff are skeptical that our patients who enjoy "one-stop-shopping " at Moss, getting medical, pharmacy, dental, mental health and social services, as well as some help with transportation, access to nursing advice, and even food from the Food Bank And who are not good at negotiating the complexities of finding a doctor, will not get adequate care.

Worthy Patients

One other point to make that sometimes makes people reluctant to support the Moss mission is the belief that our patients are just a hopeless lot, who have led such profligate lives. Have drunk and drugged themselves into ill health, that they don't deserve to be bailed out.

This is a myth Very few of our patients are like this. Mostly they are hardworking, often having several jobs to try to make ends meet. And have often lost their insurance through no fault of their own, or that classic American Catch22 that they get sick, can't work, and as a result lose health insurance. They are in that "there but for the grace of God go I" category

I like to quote Aneurin Bevin, a Welshman and, a bit of a firebrand, who was minister of Health at the time of the formation of the British NHS, whose admonition was "illness is neither an indulgence for which people have to pay, nor an offence for which they should be penalized." Rather, it is "a misfortune the cost of which should be shared by the community."

The bottom line is, if Moss Clinic is to survive, we need the community to come through It's a blatant ask (I'm not sure I'm known for my subtlety), but if you can afford a few bucks, go to the Moss website at https://mossfreeclinic org and hit the "Give Now" button

Show the Moss Clinic - or more importantly the medically indigent people we serve - that our community cares.

Patrick Neustatter is the Volunteer Medical Director of Moss Free Clinic

Gary the Goose

How to care for FXBG's Natural Treasure

Just like we preserve and protect the City of Fredericksburg's rich history and iconic places, we must also protect its wildlife. Many people know Gary the

Goose, who was nursed back to health by the Department of Wildlife and brought to City Dock. Gary spends his days greeting people who visit the River. While it's wellintentioned and indeed a kind gesture to feed Gary the Goose and any waterfowl along the River, it's one of the worst things we can do. Here are some reasons from the National Audubon Society, whose

mission is to protect birds, why we should not feed them bread or any food they can't find on their own:

Feeding Disrupts their Natural Life Cycle - Artificial feeding may allow frail birds to survive and reproduce, diminishing the species as a whole. Mortality is usually high in bird populations-it's a natural mechanism important in maintaining populations that the environment can support.

Feeding Can Spread Disease Between Flocks - Artificial feeding encourages unnaturally large flocks to gather in one place where the competition for food can cause unnecessary stress. This may weaken the birds and make them more susceptible to disease. Also, birds crowded into these areas are defecating in the same location where they're feeding. Feeding Encourages Them to Stay Where They Shouldn'tFeeding attracts large concentrations of waterfowl to areas that can't naturally support such numbers. Left on their own, ducks and geese will occupy areas that provide sufficient natural food. As they deplete food in one location, they fly to new feeding areas, often miles away.

By Joe Young

they're respected and protected.

For more information about Gary's history, how he's doing and why he likes City Dock, please watch this Gary's feature on Freehling Finds with Joe Young and Bill Freehling: youtube.com/watch?v=kM2yaLyPKAY

For more information on the City's watershed, please visit fredericksburgva.gov/787/ConservationLand

Feeding Can Weakens Certain SpeciesFeeding may encourage species of waterfowl not typically found in the area to concentrate. This can lead to an increased incidence of hybridization, eventually weakening certain species' gene pool.

Feeding Increases Risk to Human Health - Deposits of fecal matter can affect water quality and compromise human health. Children can also come into contact with droppings left on the surrounding landscape. Also, birds crowded into these areas often defecate where they're feeding.

We encourage everyone to experience meeting Gary and want everyone to enjoy Fredericksburg's Wildlife. But we also want to ensure

Joe Young is the Fredericksburg Police Department Watershed Manager. He has a pretty unique and very important job of protecting the City's watershed

Carl's Ice Cream , Kenmore, Market Square, Mary Washington House, and Gary the Goose

(LtoR) Joe Young, Gary Goose & Bill Freehling at City Dock

Cannes Meet FXBG

fredericksburg Film Festival

by ryan cudahy

Move over, Cannes and Telluride. From May 2-5, the streets and venues of Downtown Fredericksburg will play host to an exciting event of cinematic creativity: the first annual Fredericksburg Film Festival (FFF)

With over 30 film selections, both shorts and features, FFF will be held all around downtown, with screenings at 718 Venue, REIGN The Venue, and Red Dragon Brewery FFF will also hold non-screening events, including workshops and panels and local businesses These events are of course in addition to the wonderful Happy Hours and After Parties, where you can mingle and network with filmmakers and film-lovers

We will also be holding separate ticketed events at Curitiba Art Cafe, Fredericksburg Area Museum, Castiglia's Italian Restaurant, and Wild Hare Cider Pub These non-screening events are included with your purchase of the AllAccess Pass

The FFF film selections include outstanding local short and feature films, as well as nationally-recognized, award winning films including The Masterpiece (Best Short Film winner at Sundance Film Festival), Kim's Video (Official Selection at Sundance Film Festival and Tribeca Film Festival), DAEDALUS (Best Director winner at Beverly Hills Film Festival), and many more fantastic cinematic works. Many of these incredible filmmakers will be in attendance at FFF, and will be participating in panel discussions and Q&As about their films.

Guests of FFF can either purchase individual tickets to film screenings and other events, or the All-Access Pass. The All-Access Pass gives access to every event at FFF, including the screenings, happy hours, and panels. The All-Access Pass is the best way to attend FFF, as you will enjoy the encompassing experience of a film festival.

From the innovative, independent cinema we screen, to the

panels, workshops and happy hours we host, we look to foster intimate opportunities to engage with, learn from and participate in the filmmaking community.

These incredible films and filmmakers in this city continues to demonstrate how Fredericksburg is a hub for creativity

FFF Programs can be purchased at the participating venues, or at the

Ryan Cudahy is the Programming Director, Fredericksburg Film Festival Reach him at ryan.cud@gmail.com

Fredericksburg Film Festival

May 2-55, Downtown Fredericksburg fxbgfilmfest com

Fredericksburg Visitor Center at 706 Caroline Street

Spring is in full swing here at Downtown Greens and we are excited to put some more plants in the garden! Our golden ragwort is blooming joyously in the middle garden, the bluebells are blooming under the redbud tree in the lower garden and the coneflowers are leafing out, reminding us of just how cool their flowers will be! The spring beauties are bountiful on the Belman Road Campus and we just found some really cool Celeryleaved buttercups in the wetlands out there! All of these plants are incredible to witness and important plants to have in our greenspaces as our native animals are waking up with them and relying on the resources these plants offer.

As we tend to our gardens at Downtown Greens, we hope to replace as many non-native plants with native plants when we can. But where can one learn the names of these important plants? I'm glad you asked! Here is a great tool to distinguish the plants native to your area!

The Virginia Native Plant Finder through

Everything Greens Everything is

By em ford

the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)www.dcr.virginia.gov/naturalheritage/native-plants-finder

On this website you can learn about native plant landscaping, the benefits of using them, and what plants are native to your ecological region. These are the plants that have evolved specifically to your climate and soil conditions! Native plants are uniquely adapted to survive in the areas they are found in By using the "Search by Plant or Site Characteristics" function one can select Stafford or Spotsylvania - (the data was collected by county) but this list of over 400 plants is a great starting point! You can narrow it down based on the climate conditions in your yard. By using this tool you can find plants that will benefit the native and migratory birds, pollinators, and other insects that may travel through your yard.

Now that you've got your list of plants - Where do you buy them to put them in your yard? I'm so glad you asked! There are two awesome tools to help people find native plants and native plant nurseries in their area! Our two favorite resources to find native plant growers is HomeGroundNationalPark org and Virginia Native Plant Society. By googling "homegrown national park native plant directory" you will see a direct link to this Native Plant Resource Directory of native plants, wholesalers, retailers, educators, and advocacy groups near you!

Additionally, the Virginia Native Plant Society offers a great directory and list of native plant nurseries, as well as hosting native plant sales near you! You can also find them by googling their name

followed by native plant directory. https://vnps.org/native-plant-nursery-list/

We have personally used and can recommend Earth Sangha in Springfield and Hill House Nursery in Castleton - they are worth the drive and trip but look into appointment requirements! Happy gardening, everyone!

Em Ford is a native plant advocate and Garden Coordinator for Downtown Greens.

To learn more about native plants in the garden and so much more, join Em Ford during our Volunteer Garden Hours every Saturday, 9am-12pm, and Thursday, 36pm. No sign up required! Not only will you be supporting a local nonprofit and getting some delicious and necessary outdoor time, you'll also have the opportunity to learn so much about gardening and nature!***

Come to our Reishi Mushroom Workshop on May 4th. One $30 tickets covers the kit and entry for two people into the workshop! Go to www.downtowngreens.org/shop to buy your ticket today!

Downtown Greens, a nonprofit, mission is to enhance the well-bbeing of our community by connecting people with nature through education and the preservation of greenspaces

In the Garden

more than just plants

by ray mikula

Designing a garden space is more than just about the plants. Sure, you need too have sun lov-ing plants in a sunny area and tall plants to the back so they don't shade others. But adding an artistic touch and actual art will bring focus to certain areas and can frame your garden so it becomes more appealing.

European formal gardens use geometric shapes like rectangles, circles, spirals, and triangles to separate or frame portions of the garden. Brookgreen Gardens in Mur-rrells Inlet, S C. does this and adds sculptures to the mix. The statues become focal points around which the garden is designed. A garden fence and gate, a garden path, an arbor or gazebo are all structures to support and focus attention on certain areas of your garden.

Pathways can lead guests on a journey to different sections of your garden. They can be grass, mulch, gravel, stepping stones, brick or stone. Arbors support vines like clematis or climbing

"Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever."

roses and can be a gateway to another beautiful vista.

A garden fence provides a great backdrop for perennials, annuals, and vines while the gate beckons you to go

further. Patios, benches or a garden swing can give people great viewing opportunities as well as a chance to pause and soak in the richness of nature.

A water feature like a waterfall, pond or stream adds another element of nature to your garden as well as an opportunity for a greater variety of plants like water lilies, carnivorous plants, cattails and Japanese iris. The water will attract animals like frogs, turtles, dragon flies and anything that needs a quick drink on a hot dry afternoon. These water features can be "Do it yourself" or put in by professional landscapers. Bird baths and fountains are a little easier and help bring wildlife closer while creating beautiful sounds to sooth visitors to the garden. A bridge over the water is nice to look at, fun to walk over and can indicate leaving one place behind and embracing something new.

sights and sounds of your backyard oasis. Other fun garden decorations can be found wherever plants are sold. Just make sure that you don't overdo it and detract from the natural beauty you worked so hard to display. Above all, a garden is a space to be enjoyed. Make sure you have a view from your house as well so you can enjoy every sea-son weather you're inside or out.

While you're out looking for ideas, stop by the Farmers Market at Gordon Road and Rt 3 I'll be there with other Master Gardeners May 4th and 18th as well as every Saturday in June, July, and August to help with gardening ideas and planting information.

W h i m s i c a l features like a fairy garden and animal sculptures make it fun for children and adults alike. If you want to see and hear the invisible wind, wind spinners, pinwheels, and wind chimes add to the

Till the next time, happy gardening.

RayMikula is a Master Gardener.He has several acres of garden space

Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation

Bulletin for Master Gardeners Classes: www FXBGparks com/nature/mgacra May 11: Tree and Shrub Tour through Cossey Park at 1601 Kenmore Avenue June 15 at DHCC: Insects: Pests, Friends, July 13 at DHCC Fairy Gardens (fee $10) August 10 at DHCC: Fall/Winter Garden Prep

Tues-Fri: 10a-5p Sat: 10a-4p

Unknown

Make her day shine with our help this Mother's Day!!

May is here which means this town and many of the yards in it, including the gardens here at Downtown Greens, will be awash in elegant color from the thousands of irises in bloom!

Irises got their name from the Greek Goddess with the same name! According to Greek mythology the goddess Iris, which means "rainbow", came down to the earth via rainbow, like one does, and left flowers blooming in her footsteps. No word on if she was bearded.

Now spreading on earth via rhizome, bulb, and seed, there are about 280 species of iris in the world, most native to Europe and Asia. We Virginians actually have one of our very own, Iris virginica, also known as blue flag iris This beautiful blue bloomer is native in most of the south-eeast United States and, once established, is very easy to grow and requires little care. It does love water though and thrives in wet places.

Beyond its celestial name, irises play important roles all over the world,

Growing & Crawling goddess to garden

By janet douberly

especially for a plant that is completely poisonous to humans and has no medicinal properties!

The french royalist standard fleur-de-lis is an iris! Also, the rhizomes of certain bearded irises is the source of orris root, which is used as a fixative in potpourri and perfume.

If you want to see (but not eat) a plethora of irises in all the colors, swing by the gardens at Downtown Greens! No rainbow required!

Janet Douberly hopes knowledge blooms in her footsteps at Downtown Greens.

SpiritS

for Mother’s Day shake up something special

By Ree Drumond

Bee's Knees

This three-ingredient cocktail is so easy to shake up for Mom on the big day. The honey syrup gives it a delicious floral sweetness! ngredients

hot water. Whisk to combine. Set aside to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and serve with a lemon twist or edible flower.]

FOR THE HONEY SYRUP:

1/4 c. honey

1/4 c. hot water

FOR THE COCKTAIL:

2 oz. gin

1 oz. honey syrup

1 oz. lemon juice

For the honey syrup: In a liquid measuring cup, combine the honey and

Champagne Punch

What's more fitting for Mother's Day than a perfectly pink punch full of bubbly?

Celebrate all the mothers in your life with a bowl of this crowd-friendly cocktail.

4 c. white-cranberrystrawberry juice

1/2 c. vodka (orange or strawberry vodka)

1/2 c. orange liqueur, such as triple sec

1 blood orange

4 c. Ice

1/2 c.

frozen cranberries

1 c. halved strawberries

1 (750-mL.) bottle white sparkling wine, such as prosecco, cava, or champagne

In a large bowl, combine the juice, vodka, and orange liqueur. (This mixture can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.)

Cut the orange in half. Juice one of the orange halves into the punch bowl. Thinly slice the remaining half into semicircles.

Add the ice, cranberries, strawberries, and orange slices. Just

before serving, carefully pour in the sparkling wine.

Raspberry Sorbet Spritz

With scoops of raspberry sorbet floating right in this cocktail, it could double as a Mother's Day dessert!

4 (1-oz.) scoops raspberry sorbet

1 oz. orange liqueur, chilled and divided

4 oz. sparkling rosé or prosecco, chilled and divided

Fresh raspberries and mint leaves, to garnish

Place 2 martini glasses in the freezer to chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Divide the scoops of raspberry sorbet into each of the chilled glasses. Divide the orange liqueur and the sparkling rosé between the 2 glasses and garnish with fresh raspberries and mint. Serve immediately.

Spiked Arnold Palmer

Perfect for Mother's Day cookouts, this refreshing cocktail is part lemonade, part mint tea with a boozy bourbon kick!

5 family-sized black tea bags 1/2 c. fresh mint leaves, plus more for serving

4 c. granulated sugar

2 c. strained lemon juice from 12 whole lemons, chilled 3 c. bourbon

Ice

Lemon slices, for serving

In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Dunk the tea bags and the mint into the water and allow them to steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and whisk in the sugar until dissolved.

Strain the sweet tea base into a large pitcher or vat, discard the mint leaves. Stir in 4 quarts of water, the lemon juice, and bourbon.

Serve chilled over ice with lemon slices and mint sprigs.

Visit Pioneer Woman, Ree Drumond, at ThePioneerWoman.com, for food and lifestyle hints

With the completion of the major construction sites at Riverfront Park and William Square, final parking signage is planned to be installed by the City of Fredericksburg in these two areas by the end of May 2024. The Riverfront Park parking lot, located on Sophia Street near Wolfe Street, will be converted to 2-hhour parking 8 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday Riverfront Park was opened in 2022 and awarded the Virginia Recreation and Park Society's "Best New Facility" in 2023. It features newly opened public restrooms, as well as accessible play areas and river views, free public Wi-Fi and solar powered lighting. The park is located directly across the street from the City's public parking garage, which has 297 spaces and supports the parking needs of downtown's visitors and businesses.

New Parking Regs

Riverfront Park,William square & winchester

Place

By Sonja Cantu

Additionally, the final on-street parking signage around the William Square project (focused on the 600 and 700 blocks of Amelia Street, as well as Douglas, William and Winchester Streets and Washington Avenue) will be implemented by the City in an effort to support the nearby businesses while protecting area neighborhoods.

The William Square project, which was approved in 2021, is nearing completion with the grand opening of the new Publisher Hotel planned for early June 2024. This newly developed block consists of a hotel, restaurant, apartment buildings, fitness center and more at the site of the former Free Lance-Star headquarters in downtown Fredericksburg. This mixed-use complex is adjacent to the new four-level parking deck with 321 parking spaces with access on Winchester Street, which supports the parking needs of the variety of new occupants on this block.

As long planned, areas of onstreet parking on Amelia, William, and

Winchester Streets and Washington Avenue will be converted to 2-hhour parking 8 AM to 7 PM Monday through Saturday The north side of Amelia Street, which is lined by residential homes, is designated "Resident Permit" parking.

Both of these changes are consistent with the other parking

regulations downtown, encouraging turnover to support businesses while encouraging long stays to utilize parking decks. Please watch for these updated parking signs coming soon.

Sonja Cantu is City of FXBG Public Information Officer

Historic Tower To Get Fresh Look

The historic Purina Tower in downtown Fredericksburg will soon get a fresh-new look.. The tower, which is at 401 Charles Street near the train station, will be part of a project funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated to the City of Fredericksburg for tourism marketing. See the rendering included with this post for what the project will look like.

When the project is complete, the building will have a familiar look but with a few updates

Mexican Restaurant Opens Near Eagle Village

A restaurant called Sabor De Mexico recently opened near Eagle Village in Fredericksburg. The restaurant is at 1213 Snowden Street. There are "Grand Opening" signs in the windows

Veera Aesthetics Opening At Winchester Place

A business offering skincare services and products is opening at the Winchester Place project in downtown Fredericksburg.

Veera Aesthetics will open in roughly 800 square feet in the ground-floor commercial space at 1094 Winchester Street, which is the red-brick building at the corner of Amelia and Winchester streets..

TidBits

small bites of local News

By Bill Freehling

The company offers threading, waxing, facials as well as skincare and aromatherapy products.

An additional 2,400 square feet of commercial space remains available for lease at Winchester Place.

MLS executive will be UMW Commencement Speaker

Major League Soccer (MLS) executive Mark McClure will be on his college turf this Spring when the Class of 1996 graduate returns to the University of Mary Washington as the 2024 Commencement speaker.

The ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 11, beginning at 9 a.m. on Ball Circle, rain or shine.

For more than a decade, McClure has worked to bring sports fans to Major League Soccer via digital strategy and content and now manages a team that helps broadcast matches around the world on MLS' streaming services on Apple TV

Bharat Grocery

An Indian grocery store selling lentils, spices, produce and more is planned in Fredericksburg's Central Park shopping center.

Bharat Grocery is planned in a 1,300square-foot space at 3142 Cowan Blvd. The location is next to Guru Indian Cuisine.

The Good Feet Store Coming to Fredericksburg

A national company that focuses on personally fitted arch supports is coming to Fredericksburg's Central Park shopping center.

Since its inception, The Good Feet Store has been committed to helping individuals find relief from foot, knee, hip and back pain and discomfort

The Good Feet Store is planning a 3,500-square-foot store at 1682 Carl D. Silver Parkway, near Ulta Beauty and Club Champion. The company is shooting for a September opening

Five Chophouse and Bar Coming Soon to FXBG

William Street's bustling restaurant scene will soon have a great new addition.

Five Chophouse and Bar is the name of the steak, seafood and sushi restaurant and bar that will go into a nearly 6,000-square-foot space on the William Street side of The Publisher Hotel

The hotel is being built at the corner of Washington Avenue and William Streetthe gateway to downtown Fredericksburg. The restaurant will be accessible from either the hotel lobby or the William Street entrance

Five Chophouse and Bar will have more than 190 seats and will feature several private dining rooms for special events, meetings and parties. Outdoor seasonal seating will be available as well.

Both the restaurant and the hotel are scheduled to open June 6. Valet parking will be available for both the hotel and restaurant.

Bill Freehling, Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism

The title of this month's column may be a mystery except to Latin scholars, botanists, horticulturists, phytologists - or even those who read tags on purchased plants. It's all about the strawberry! F virginiana strawberry is native to Eastern American woodlands and, introduced to Europe in the 1600s, became one of two strawberry species that gave rise to our modern strawberry (see column title!) F. ananassa is so named because it resembles the pineapple in smell, taste and shape The heady lusciousness of a sun-ripened berry is incomparable. Picked before they are ripe, strawberries will never quite achieve lusciousness - as an example, the yearround store-bought plastic-packaged strawberry. They remind me of the yearround store-bought juiceless tomato as compared to the July home-grown juicerunning-down-your-arm summer variety. No comparison.

So eat up in the Spring! Strawberries are delicious consumed fresh (the sun-ripened variety) but can be found frozen, made into jam, chutneys and preserves or dried and used in prepared foods - strawberry flavorings are a popular addition to dairy products consumed around the world. The iconic strawberries and cream " is served in the UK at the annual Wimbledon tennis tournamenthere in America we serve strawberries in pies, with or without rhubarb, and strawberry shortcakes. Ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, smoothies, parfaits and yogurts are all popular strawberry concoctions found in our local grocery stores.

Enjoy fresh strawberries this spring - it's one of the reasons for the season!

OLD FASHIONED STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

Just imagine this biscuit-cake being mixed together and baked in a cast iron wood burning stove. I'm sure the recipe is that old! This is an easy one pan recipe for baking, as you'll need to have your baking dish and your serving dish as one. Preheat oven to 450F. Bring the shortcake together by hand to avoid over mixing. Sift together 2C flour, then sift again with 3T baking powder, 1/2tsp salt and (opt) 3T sugar. Cut in 1/3C shortening and add 3/4C whole buttermilk to form a soft dough. Melt 4T butter and using 1T, grease sides and bottom of a 4" deep, 7" to 8" casserole dish. Divide the

dough in half and spread on the bottom of the pan, brush with 2T butter, then spread the other half on top, pat down evenly and brush with remaining butter. Bake 20-25 minutes (do NOT open oven door to "check" during bake time) until a tester comes out clean or 175F on an instant read thermometer. Set aside for 10 minutes while you crush 2 quarts of hulled strawberries with desired amount of sugar. Separate the shortcakes and pour half of the strawberries on the bottom shortcake. Top with the other shortcake and then the rest of the strawberries. Scoop out individual servings, and top with sweetened whipped cream. The center of the shortcake is fluffy, soft and delicious - the edges buttery and crispy when served immediately. Refrigerate any remaining dessert. Many thanks to a good friend for sharing their old family recipe.

LIKE SHONEY'S STRAWBERRY ICE BOX PIE

There are fewer than 100 Shoney's restaurants left in the US today, from a high of almost 2000 in the late 1990s. This is THE recipe used in every church supper cookbook. And it is delicious. Set aside one 8" or 9" pre baked pie shell. Fill the pie shell with 4C sliced strawberries. In a small saucepan, mix together 1 1/2C water, 3/4C sugar and 2T cornstarch - bring to a boil and continue to cook until mixture is clear and thick, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 3 ounces of strawberry gelatin (not sugar free variety), stirring until completely dissolved. Pour this over the strawberries and refrigerate until chilled. Serve with sweetened whipped cream.

STRAWBERRY BREAD Years ago a new neighbor brought us a loaf of strawberry bread as a "welcome to the neighborhood" gift, along with the recipe. I've been making it ever since. You can also substitute fresh peaches in season. Well wrapped for freezing, the loaves can be frozen for up to three months. Preheat oven to 350F. Grease an 8"x4" loaf pan and set aside. Bring this bread together by hand to avoid over mixing. Sift together 2C flour, 2tsp baking powder, 1tsp cinnamon (opt), 1/4tsp each soda and salt. Set aside. Whisk one large egg with 1C sugar, 1/3C canola or coconut oil, 2tsp vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently mix so there are no lumps remains, but avoid over mixing. Fold in 2C chopped fresh strawberries, tossed in 1T flour. Spoon the batter into the loaf pan and bake 60-70 minutes or until a tester comes out clean in the center, with just a few moist crumbs.

Also while strawberries are in season, try a recipe for STRAWBERRY FREEZER JAM - the one found at ballmasonjars.com is easy and delicious.

Vanessa serves up yummy recipes from all kinds of places & for all seasons

FEATURED IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA MAGAZINE

BY RYAN CUDAHY

In the April 2024 edition of Northern Virginia Magazine, its list of the Best BBQ in NoVa featured two familiar names: Billiken's Smokehouse and Allman's BBQ

This honor is unsurprising to the people of Fredericksburg, as Billiken's and Allman's have been revered in Fredericksburg, and throughout Virginia, for years (or, for Allman's, seven decades). Guests of Billiken's can enjoy delicious meals such as Smoked Brie or The Chimney Stack (a sandwich with brisket, pulled pork, pork belly, sausage and a sliced tomato topped with a fried egg), two items which Northern Virginia Magazine highlighted in its excerpt on the beloved Fredericksburg smokehouse.

Allman's, a classic BBQ joint that has received many accolades in the past few years, is known for delicious BBQ meals such

as The PitMaster (chopped beef brisket, spicy mayo and candied jalapenos on a toasted bun) and Allman's Slaw Dog. This revered, Virginia BBQ has been perfected by co-owner at pitmaster Matthew Deaton His work in revamping Allman's menu has led directly to this honor in Northern Virginia Magazine.

Among the many wonderful restaurants in Fredericksburg, Billiken's Smokehouse and Allman's BBQ stand out as some of the best BBQ in not only Northern Virginia, but this entire commonwealth. Needless to say, this accolade by Northern Virginia Magazine is more than deserved.

Follow Billiken's Smokehouse and Allman's BBQ on Facebook.

Ryan Cudahy is the Tourism Marketing Assistant for the City of Fredeicksburg

If you are familiar with Virginia Wine and have spent some time tasting in the state, you are familiar with certain popular areas and the better known wineries. When someone speaks of wine regions in California, most people think Napa or Sonoma. When someone mentions Oregon, people think of Willamette; when New York is mentioned, Finger Lakes is first thought of. Every wine region has a "better-known" region.

For Virginia, a lot of wine enthusiasts know Charlottesville as the wine region with good terroir, winemakers, etc. It is often referred to as the "Napa" of Virginia, although if you ask vineyard managers, winemakers, and winery owners, that is not a great comparison in the sense of environment, terroir, and climate. However, that is a topic for another blog. There are other areas that do not get the attention they might deserve, for they have excellent terroir, climate, and winemakers and/or owners that appreciate and are cultivating from that. One such area is the Shenandoah region

The wineries in and around the foothills of the Shenandoah Valley encompass a lot of the same attributes as does the Piedmont region in Italy and eastern France. They enjoy limestone and or rocky soils, cool temperatures, and

most are protected by the mountains that create a rain shadow, allowing cool air, but blocking potential damaging winds, frost, and hard rain.

Randy Phillips, owner of Cave Ridge Vineyard, had the right idea when he sought out his property. He searched for a vineyard site with the grapes in mind, not with the intention of having a winery. His sole purpose was, and still is, to grow the best quality grapes to produce wines that make sense for the area. Unfortunately, some purchase winery sites with aesthetics in mind, and although they may have the best intentions to have wines that are purchase-worthy, they have their goals slightly askew. If you want to produce good wines in Virginia, you have to select a site and the grapes that are best suited to that location Virginia is very challenging, to say the least, for growing vinifera, and if the terroir does not fit the variety of grape planted, the wine will reflect that. Mr. Phillips is growing grapes that make sense with the terroir, and the wines reflect that! His Gold Medal-winning Fossil Hill was selected this year to be in the Governors Case for the 2024 Governor's Cup Competition, as well as 2022 winner of the Cup in the Shenandoah Cup Competition It is the classic Bordeaux blend; 60% Cabernet Franc, 20% Petit Verdot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. When his Cabernet

Franc has enjoyed a stellar vintage, he will create "Red Silk," the label adorned with a lady embellished in a lovely red gown, or in this year's case, a Kimono.

Another place worth visiting while exploring this beautiful area is somewhat new. Star in the Valley, named after the gorgeous night sky in the area, is another vineyard and winery growing grapes and making wine with terroir in mind. The soils are shallow, rocky, and well-drained, and they have recently added a new element to care for their vineyard, a two-ewe crew. Yuri and brother Shep are Heritage Babydoll Sheep. Their small size makes them perfect to clean out the grass and sucker shoots around the vines. At an elevation of over 1,000 feet, it is protected from the harsh elements. The location is the driest area of Virginia ensuring healthy, ripe fruit. They have been tailoring their wines according to that environment. The views are stunning, and the wines match its beauty, all of which are labeled with names like Starset (Cab Franc Rosé), and Astronomer (an " orange wine," created from Vidal). The farm has always been in the family, although not always a vineyard, and is enjoying success in small-batch wine production. They were voted best winery in Shenandoah in 2020 and 2022, and their Chardonel received a gold medal in the 2023 Governors Cup. All of their wines show great balance and everyone who visits is bound to find something to enjoy while gazing at the expansive scenery.

The two mentioned are not the only wineries worth visiting. There are Muse Vineyards, with winemaker Tim Rausse, who has a fabulous Gamaysomething rare to offer here in Virginia;

by Rita Allan

This blog is not long enough to mention all of the beauties in the area, nor did it list a lot of great wines created here, but hopefully it was enough of a teaser to encourage an exploratory trip.

Next time you are bound for a Virginia wine tour, consider heading toward the beautiful Shenandoah wine region. Wine tasting is not the only activity to be found. There are breweries and distilleries, plus the Route 11 Potato Chip Factory, hiking and antique-ing.

City Vino at 810 Caroline St is were you will find owner Rita Allan to provide you answers to all your wine questions

Michael Shaps latest winery, Shenandoah; as well as The Winery at Kindred Pointe; Wolf Gap and several others are worth checking out!

CALEND

Wednesday May 1

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6 Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p,. Trapper's Trivia @6B&G 7-9, 1140 International Pkwy

Concerts by Canoe on the lake at Motts Run Reservoir! . 6-8p

Thursday May 2

National Day of Prayer, Hurkamp Park, 11a-6p Fredercickburg Film Festival thru May 5

Walk with Doc- 4-5p, Food CoOp 320 Emancipation Hwy every thursday Lafayette Cenntenial event: A lecture-performance exploring the music of the early days of the French Revolution 7-8:30p CRRL FXBG

Live Music Acoustic Onion, @Colonial Tavern, 406 Lafayette Blvd, 7-10p

First Friday Friday, May 3

Arisian Market, Hurkamp Park, 5-9p

"Wallflowers & Shrinking Violets", featured artist Kimberly Zook, opening reception 5-9p, Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline St

Scarlett Pons & Ellen Schaefer new work in this duo show. Scarlett new botanical-inspired ceramic wall hanging pieces,Ellen latest paintings inspired by the Rapp River. Reception 5-9p, Ponshop, 712 Caroline St

"Lovely Linens"Woven Works by Linda GeorgeArtful Dimensions, 922 Caroline St Opening Reception, 6-9pm

Opening Reception paintings of acclaimed Nepali Artist Roshan Dangol, 6 pm -8pm. Free. Rehana's Restaurant 104 Wolfe Street 22401.

FCCA "Landscapes Near & Far", 813 Sophia St

'Time Stands Still"works by Judy Green Opening reception 6pm to 9pm.

Art First, 824 Caroline St

Patrons Show, works by members,Libertytown Arts Workshop reception 5-8p 916 Liberty S

Virginia Renaissance Faire, weekends thru June 19, Lake Anna Winery, 10a -5p. Tkts online sale only varf.org

Live Music Duck Chuck Goose @Adventure Brewing North, 7-9p

Live Music Michael Stephen Lofton Acoustic @Colonial Tavern , 6-9p, 406 Lafayette Blvd

Saturday May 4

Art in the Park, Hurkamp Park, 9a-1p Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd

Sunken Well Saturday: brunch from 9a-2p, 720 Littlepage

Taco & Beer Festival, Fxbg Fairgrounds, 11a-4p

Live Music Strangways Brewing , 350 Landsdowne Rd

Live Music Spiral Light Band @Colonial Tavern, Lafayette Blvd, 8-11p

Live Music Waking Napster @Log Home Brewing Co, Courthouse Rd, 6p

Sunday May 5

Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern,9a-20 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, 720 Littlepage, 30th Annual Great Train Race, begins at 7a, Fxbg Train Station Bag Bee- 2-3:30p , Food CoOp 320 Emancipation Hwy

130th Anniversary Wreath Laying honoring Americ's first mother, Mary Ball Washington, 3p on the grounds of Mary Washington Monument Latin Feeling Band @St.george Church, 905 Princess Anne, 3p

Live Music The Docksters @Strangeways Brewing, 2-5p, Lansdowne Rd

Tuesday May 7

Picnic in the Park live music Ashleigh Chevalier, good food & fun. Ree, Memorial Park, 11:30a to 1p, Kenmore Ave

Chair Yoga 6-6:45p , Food CoOp 320 Emancipation Hwy, every tuesday

Wednesday May 8

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p,. Trapper's Trivia @6B&G 7-9, 1140 International Pkwy Concerts by Canoe on the lake at Motts Run Reservoir! . 6-8p

Karen's Line Dancing, rock, country pop @Strangways Brewing, 6:308:30p, 350 Landsdowne Rd

Live Music Brian Lyra Brown @Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 6-9p Ukulele Jamming 7pm , Food CoOp 320 Emancipation

Thursday May 9

Spongebob Square Pants Trivia, Strangeways Brewing, 6:45p

Live Music Karen Jonas: After Hours @Gari Melchers Home & Studio, 68p, join us for outdoor music, food trucks, beer, wine

Friday May 10

North America's most popular interactive dinosaur experience The Jurassic Quest Fxbg Expo Center Noon-8- Show thru Sunda9

Live Music Nate Oyler @Log Home Brewing Co, 5727 Courthouse Rd, 6p

Live Music Brian Lyra Brown @Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 6-9p

Saturday, May 11th

FAIS judged iris show Chancello fburg.area.iris.society@gmail.com

Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park

Sunken Well Saturday: brunch from Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm

Book Signing and Meet The Author, Harris "What is Dad Doing" - A lives.Jabberwocky Children's Books a

Rapp Valley Garden Club/Bee City U Community Garden 1-2pm. will sha USA member Bragg Hill Garden at Wicklow Drive.

Live Music JD Roberts @6B&G, 7pm Songfest in the Park, Honky Tonk western swing Pratt Park's Celebrat rain or shine. 3-5 PM,

Live Music Susie & Stephen Acoustic

Live Music Wavos @Strangeways Bre

Mother's Day, Sunday, May Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 720 Littlepage,

FAIS Open Garden Day four area ga to 4 p.m. for info email: fburg.area

Live Music Brian Lyra Brown @Cour

Tuesday May 14

Picnic in the Park, Farm Animal Day, Griffin, good food & fun , Memorial

Wednesday May 15

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Carol Trapper's Trivia @6B&G 7-9, 1140 I ‘

Concerts by Canoe on the lake at M 35th Chamber Music Festival, Quart UMW

Kitchen Apothecary 7-8 , Food CoOp

Thursday May 16

Live Music (hed) p.e., hard times Caf

Live Music, Million Watts Tour 2024 Hwy, 6:30-10:30p

DAR of events

or Ruritan Building. .info email:

k,7a-2p, 9a-2p, 720 Littlepage 12150 Gordon Rd

Dr. Peter Scelfo and the Artist, Bill children's introduction to saving and Toys, 810 Caroline St, 1-3p

USA & native plant demo Bragg Hill are about Fxbg becoming a Bee City the intersection of Fall Hill Ave & 1140 International Pky

k Casanovas a mixture of country tion Stage! food trucks onsite. Free

@Adventure Brewing North, 7-9, ewing, 350 Landsdowne Rd, 7-10p y 12 ,9a-20 , & bluegrass music from 6-8,

ardens will be open from 11:30 a.m. .iris.society@gmail.com

rtyard Marriott Downtown, 6-9p

live music Pete Mealy & Laurie Rose Park, 11:30a to 1p, Kenmore Ave

m 720 Littlepage line St, 7-10p,. International Pkwy

Motts Run Reservoir! 6-8p

tet in C Major, 7pm, Seacobeck Hall,

p 320 Emancipation Hwy

fe, 1076- Patriot Hwy6:30p 4, Hard Times Cafe, 10760 Patriot

Friday May 17

35th Chamber Music Festival, string Quartet, 7pm, Seacobeck Hall, UMW

Live Music @Curitiba, Latin Night w/ Spanglish Latin American Band Concert FREE , 6-9p, 919 Caroline St

Live Music Sabin Mills @Adventure Brewing, North 7-9p

Saturday May 18

Art in the Park, Hurkamp Park, 9a-1p

Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd

Sunken Well Saturday: brunch from 9a-2p, 720 Littlepage

10th Annual CRRL-CON, cpmis book convention, Howell Branch CRRL, 806 Lyons Blvd, 12-4p

Sophia Street Studios grand re-opening celebration 10am-8pm . Join us for light refreshments, live music 5-8p from Richmond guitarist Todd @sincerelyirismusic

Rappahannock Model Railroaders - Spring Open House! 10am-4pm RMR Clubhouse, 406 Hudgins Rd - More info. at www.rmrailroaders.com

Virginia Renaissance Faire, weekends thru June 19, Lake Anna Winery, 10a -5p

35th Chamber Music Festival, Sonatine for Flute & Basson; 3p Seacobeck Hall, UMW

Paws & Pours @Strangeways Brewing, for the SPCA, 12-5p

Live Music Flying High Again @Strangways Brewing Landsdowne rd, 7-9p

Possum Punchlines Comedy Show, a night of alternative comedy.Possumbilities, , 211 William St, 7:30p

Sunday May 19

Marine Corp Historic Half, 6a, start Fxbg Convention Center

Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern,9a-20 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, 720 Littlepage’

Chamber Concert Series, Organ Concert, St George Episcopal Church Princess Anne St, 3p

Tuesday May 21

Picnic in the Park, Nature Day, live music Spanglish Memorial Park, 11:30a to 1p, Kenmore Ave

Wednesday May 22

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p,. Concerts by Canoe on the lake at Motts Run Reservoir! 6-8p

Thursday May 23

Lafayette Trail, speaker Julian Icher elaborates on the significance of Lafayette's Farewell Tour , CRRL Fxbg, 6:30-8p

Friday May 24

Food as Medicine- Arthritis- noon-1p , Food CoOp 320 Emancipation Hwy

Live Music, Spotty Signal @Strangweays Brewing, Landsdowne Rd, 7-10p

Live Music Chris Hanks @Log Home Brewing, 5727 Courthouse Rd, 6p

Saturday, May 25

Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Rock Around The Block , At Normandy Village, 1-5 p.m. Check in Northside Baptist Church 445 Woodford St. Music, classic cars, lawn games & more.Tkts at HFFI.org

Join us at the Downtown Greens' Belman Road Campus at 11am for a Nature Walk! www.downtowngreens.org/shop to sign up.

Live Music The Virginia Rum Runners @6B&G, 7p, International Pkwy

Sunday May 26

Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2p , & bluegrass music from 68p, 720 Littlepage, Woodland Hike at Gerri Melchers Home & Studio, Conducted by Virginia Master Naturalists, 2-3pm.

Memorial Day May 27

Remember our fallen USA soldiers

Wednesday May 29

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage

Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p,. Trapper's Trivia @6B&G 7-9, 1140 International Pkwy Concerts by Canoe on the lake at Motts Run Reservoir. 6-8p

Thursday May 30

Walk with a Doc 4-5p FXBG food CoOP, 320 Emancipation Hwy

Friday May 31

Jonathan Austin's 24 Hour Emergency Juggling & Magic Services, Jonathan has performed at Walt Disney World, The White House! Celebration Stage at John Lee Pratt Memorial Park Food trucks and field games 5:30-8:30 PM, performance 6:30-7:30 PM FREE Live Music Swamp Trash Band @Strangweays Brewing, 350 Lansdowne Rd, 7-10p

If you are reading this 322nd issue of FPF, thank an advertiser now in our 27th year of continuous publication!

List your events email frntprch@aol.com: subject Calendar/Events

Deadline for June 2024 issue is May 19th

donatelifevirginia.org dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#organs.asp

Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831

history’s stories

May Day

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

May Day is easy for us to remember as it is always the first day of May. It was a holiday that originated in America and still has controversial meaning to many people. I can remember dancing around the maypole in elementary school with its many colorful ribbons. The origin of the day goes back to the time of the Romans as they celebrated the goddess Flora in honor of spring and flowers. When the Romans expanded their empire into the British Isles it joined the festival Beltrane a Celtic holiday. It was a change in the seasons and resulted in pageants and games, that they would have colorful streamers as they would dance around the poles or trees

In colonial America the holiday was not well received especially by the Puritan colonist in New England. One incident in 1627, involved the Puritans chopping down a May pole and sending the merchant who put it up back to England where he recorded the incident in a book he wrote in 1637, titled (New English Canaan).

May Day would probably would have remained obscure if not for a group of reformers in the working class. In the latter part of the 1800's there was an influx of immigrants from around the world coming to America seeking jobs in the industries that were short of workers. It was during this time that May Day traditions began on the college campuses

The Central Rappahannock Heritage Center is a non-profit, all-volunteer archives whose mission is to preserve historically valuable material of the region and make it available to the public for research

900 Barton St #111, Fredericksburg, VA www.crhcarchives.org contact@crhcarchives.org 540-373-3704

and spread to students in public and private schools as they would gather flowers and dance around the colorful pole. They would select a May Day King and Queen.

I recall my grandmother Withers telling me of a "May Basket," she would make full of colorful flowers, she would knock on someone's door YELL MAY BASKET and run. There was one actually placed on First Lady Coolidge White House door in the 1920's She said if the giver was caught by recipient he or she was entitled to a kiss. Today you would probably be arrested for this act of kindness. In 66 countries May 1st is still and official holiday, however, it is hardly recognized in the United States

May Day and Labor Day in the 1800's were on the same day the Haymarket riot in 1886 along with other events led up to the change from May to September for the celebration of Labor Day. In 1886 at the Haymarket Square in Chicago several hundred workers were gathered to protest for a eight hour work day. After several hours the police gathered to break up the demonstration. Someone threw a bomb at the police that resulted in several injuries and deaths among the officers. This resulted in the deaths of several demonstrators. This event was followed by several other labor demonstrations, that resulted in President Grover Cleveland on June 28, 1894, to proclaim that Labor Day would be on September 1st of each year. In 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This act was to give Federal Employees three day holidays by mandating that Memorial Day Presidents Day, Columbus Day, Labor Day, Martin Luther King Day or any future holidays would be on Monday.

A few interesting things about May is that the first Saturday is the Kentucky Derby and Beekeepers move their bees on May 1st. Many fishermen always expect a good day fishing on May 1st. Always remember if you hear "Mayday-Mayday-Mayday" repeated three times it is an urgent distress call. That term comes from the French phrase M'aidez which means "help me." I read once that it was just a term from a radio operator in England for use in emergency.

No matter how you celebrate as you go "A-MAYING" put a flower in your hair as you enjoy the beauty of the burg, and read FRONT PORCH from cover to cover.

TO:

Volunteers Wecome! Contact us about donating collections of documents and photographs 907 Princess Anne Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

DEDICATED

Walter Biscoe, Janice Davies, Harold Blankenship, and Richard Jones

Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Historian

The dynamic duo of David and Lisa Durham, (pictured right) who have invested so much in creating events and activities that engage, educate, and entertain our community are now working to offer an unforgettable experience for the folks of the Burg and beyond. Their "crowning" accomplishment is coordinating a spectrum of special events offered to celebrate the bicentennial of General Lafayette's 1824 visit to Fredericksburg during his 13-month Grand Tour through all 24 American states. At each of the stops in his tour, Lafayette was hailed as the "Hero of Two Worlds" and was feted with receptions, balls, processions, and dinners. Today, in our city, which is so rich in history, many people may be unaware of the critical role than our staunch French comrade played in the success of the American Revolution

A testament to his courage and commitment to principles of freedom and equality, Lafayette was so inspired when he learned of the colonists' brave, fledgling fight for independence that he felt a deep calling to join the Cause. In June 1777,

though he was just 19 years old, Lafayette used a portion of his wealth to purchase and outfit a ship to travel across the ocean to join the colonists' bold endeavor. His investment in the American Revolution was full-ffledged and included service as a Major General in the Continental Army and his engagement on the battlefield, in which he was wounded at Brandywine, as well as his participation in critical engagements at Monmouth and Newport and the key role he played in the Siege of Yorktown, where British General Cornwallis was forced to surrender.

In 1789, he and Thomas Jefferson co-aauthored the "Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen," which would be the first step toward the creation of a constitution for the Republic of France and help spark the French Revolution.

The Durhams' role as coordinators of Fredericksburg's celebration of the bicentennial of Lafayette's 1824 tour is rooted in a personal interest that was sparked in 2015. At that time, David was doing basic research about Fredericksburg and Lafayette, given that having a major boulevard and a school named after him in the city suggested a strong relationship. In that research, David found a reference to a booklet that described General Lafayette's visit to Fredericksburg as part of his American Farewell Tour. Intrigued by this document, David and Lisa traveled to William & Mary to view the booklet, which did present a detailed account of Lafayette's visit to Fredericksburg. Excited about their discovery, they approached then-Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw, saying that we couldn't let the auspicious 200th anniversary of Lafayette's visit to pass by without celebration.

By collette caprara

Not only did Mayor Greenlaw agree but-true to form and in accord with her deep family history-she told them that the document had, in fact, been written by her great-ggreat-ggrandfather who founded the Virginia Star--FFredericksburg's first daily newspaper and one of the two that would merge to create the Free Lance-Star. "We were excited that she was enthusiastic about our idea to reenact portions of Lafayette's 1824 visit," said David. "We soon brought together a group of organizations to form a 'Coalition of the Willing'including staff of the City's department of Economic Development & Tourism, Fredericksburg museums, and civic organizations with links to Lafayette, his visit, and France."

Thus, the Fredericksburg Lafayette Bicentennial Commemoration Committee came into being.

Throughout the past two years, the committee created a program of events, including a special exhibit at the Fredericksburg Area Museum, a nine-month lecture series, and the culminating November 2324 Commemoration Weekend. That plethora of special events was launched on March 1 with an opening reception for the museum's exhibit, Lafayette's World: Revolutionary Ideas and the Limits of Freedom."When we first started thinking about the idea for this exhibit, we wanted Lafayette to be the focal point, but we also wanted to think a little more expansively about the Revolutionary War, especially as we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence," said Dr. Gaila Sims , Curator of African American History and Special Projects. "America has always been a diverse place, with lots of different people contributing their talent, labor, and ideas. The intention of this exhibition, then, is to position Lafayette

as an entry point into larger conversations about diverse participation in the Revolutionary War."

Throughout the next eight months, the Fredericksburg Lafayette Bicentennial Commemoration will continue with a series of thoughtprovoking, free public lectures on topics such as Lafayette's friendships with George Washington, James Monroe, and

James Madison, the wildly enthusiastic residents of Fredericksburg who lined the streets to welcome Lafayette, and Lafayette's adamant insistence that the abolition of slavery should be an essential part of America's quest for freedom and equality "Each lecture presents a unique lens to explore a different aspect of General Lafayette and his relationship to Fredericksburg. These events will bring the audience into a deeper understanding of this unique Founding Father and therich history that surrounds us in our beautiful, beloved city," said Lisa.

For a full listing of the lecture series and events and Commemoration Weekend details, see FXBG.com/Lafayette

Collette Caprar is an artist and writer

Mental Health What To Do if Your Workplace is Anxiety-Inducing

By Luna Greenstein

There are so many aspects a job that can cause anxiety: having tight deadlines, trying to harmonize a work/life balance, dealing with office gossip and politics, meeting your supervisor's expectations… the list goes on.

Thanks to all this, most people who work will experience some anxiety at some point. But what do you do if your workplace makes you feel that way on a regular basis? When you dread stepping foot into the office day after day. When something about your job makes anxiety your norm. When you have an anxiety disorder and work constantly triggers your symptoms.

Depending on your situation, it might be helpful to evaluate whether your job is right for you. But if you aren't able or don't want to change jobs, there are ways to manage workplace anxiety.

Practice Self-AAwareness

Before you can improve your situation, it's important to understand

what exactly is creating your anxious feelings or worsening the symptoms of your condition. Even if the root of your anxiety is something you can't change, like having more work than you can handle, knowing the cause can help you figure out next steps. It's a lot harder to reach a destination without a map.

Share Your Feelings

It may be helpful to talk to a trusted coworker as they can relate to and sympathize with your anxiety. If you don't have a coworker you trust, you can talk to a friend, family member or mental health professional. Talking about anxiety with the right person can help you process these intense emotions and it can be validating if the person is supportive and understanding. They might also have ideas or suggestions to help you cope.

Release Your Thoughts

Anxiety feeds off itself and one anxious thought can turn into 100 pretty quickly. There's no way I will meet this deadline. What if something else comes

up? What if Steve thinks the project is terrible? If you're feeling inundated with this kind of thought-spiral, it can be helpful to release your thoughts.

One of the most effective ways to do this is by writing them all down. Do a brain dump of all your anxious thoughts-not to understand them, but just to get them "out." If you're at home (or somewhere you feel comfortable) thinking about work drama, you can also sing your thoughts. The idea of these practices is that you can't write or sing as fast as you can think, so you'll actually be slowing down while you release your unhelpful thought patterns.

with this feeling and that's okay. I don't know how long this will last, and I'm okay with that." Tell yourself these things and mean them. It can be surprising how much this small act can help.

Know When to Ask for Help

If you're drowning in work, having a hard day or feeling like you can't meet your supervisor's expectations, ask your colleagues for help. While it may feel like everyone handles their own work and stress independently, and you should too, this is often not beneficial to anyone. Asking for help when you need it alleviates your burden and builds trust among coworkers. If you feel guilty for taking up their time, offer your support the next time they need help.

Take Time Off

Every six months or so, take some time off work and disconnect as much as possible. Don't feel guilty about it. You deserve time to yourself or with your loved ones. There is no shortage of research about how important it is for your mental health to get regular breaks from work to decompress and reset. It gives you something to look forward to, time to reflect and practice gratitude. Time off also helps build resilience.

Accept Anxiety

The more you fear anxiety, the more powerful it can become. Part of reducing anxiety is accepting that sometimes work is going to make you feel that way. This is a lot easier said than done, but it comes with practice. So, next time you feel your thoughts and heartbeat start to race, take a moment, sit at your desk and tell yourself: "I feel anxious right now and that's okay. I'm uncomfortable

Workplace anxiety happens to everyone. But for those who experience it regularly, it's not something you should push aside or ignore. Even if you feel stressed out and under pressure, it's important to take time to manage your anxiety. Work is important, but it's not worth your mental health

Laura

Greenstein is communications manager at NAMI.

NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for millions of Americans affected by mental illness through education, support and advocacy

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis or emotional distress, reach out 24/7 to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by dialing or texting 988 or using chat services at suicidepreventionlifeline org to connect to a trained crisis counselor

You can also get crisis text support via the Crisis Text Line by texting NAMI to 741741

Last Wednesday afternoon, as I puzzled over:

the woman with a thyroid disorder who couldn't lose weight despite her lab results (TSH) showing she was on the right dose of supplement.

The 28-year-old new patient, who achieved the highest score I've ever seen on the PHQ-9 depression rating but looked perfectly chirpy.

The old guy, whose niece that he lives with, wanting me to sign a form saying he wasn't fit to manage his own SSI money because he keeps "taking out all his money and going to his favorite shop" (the ABC store).

The guy with a marked heart murmur he'd had all his life, who showed no sign of decompensation, but had never had any work up to know how serious it was.

As I beat my head against the wall puzzling over what to do with these people - resorting to asking Kelly my scribe what she thought I should do - I realized if I didn't get to do this, I would miss it.

If the Moss Clinic were to close, as seems a distinct possibility with our critical lack of funding, there are a lot of aspects of this "chore" that I would miss.

Though as a bit of an aside, and to air a pet-peeve once again, a large part of the brain beating is having to deal with the horrible computerized medical records system we have.

Why Do I Want to Do This?

My willingness to treat these patients at the clinic harps on that

question that is put to every medical school applicant.

"Why Do You Want To Be A Doctor?"

Apart from all that bonuses stuff like, it makes you a respected member of society, it usually pays well, what else?

Usually, a major motivator is a desire to help others - though sites that provide coaching advice to medical school applicants warns to use with caution when citing this for fear of coming across as being disingenuously pious.

"Find an anecdote of some event that inspired you" is the advice.

In my case, apart from the strong genomic component of being the fourth generation of doctors in my family, I think it was when our biology teacher inspired us with stories of Pasteur, Jenner, Semmelweis and Lister I found myself thinking "this is some pretty cool scientific detective work, and it's helping people."

Another attraction is the intellectual challenge of being a detective and computing all the different "clues" a patient presents with - no coincidence that Sir Arthur Cannon-DDoyle (who was a doctor) based Sherlock Holmes on a lecturer at Edinburgh Medical school who was particularly good at reading the clues of his patients.

Especially Philanthropic

The - all too few - doctors, Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants who volunteer at Moss are maybe have a

By Patrick Neustatter, MD

more highly developed sense of philanthropy (which I can assure them the medically indigent population served, is truly grateful for).

Likewise, the staff believe in the mission, and are willing to work for less than what they could make in other markets.

We are all serving a community that is very needy and not good at navigating what can be a very complex obstacle course to get the healthcare needed - which makes me worry about the idea of turning them loose to access what we are told are perfectly suitable alternatives, if, as seems on the cards now, the clinic were to close.

Vexing though the problems of the patients I saw last Wednesday may be, the idea of the clinic closing and my not having to wrestle with such problems is more so.

Patrick Neustatter, MD is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic

Roshan Dangol acclaimed nepali artist comes to the ‘Burg

By collette caprara

On a visit to Fredericksburg's Sister City in Nepal, the artwork of the Museum of Nepali Art caught the eye, heart, and imagination of the touring contingent from the Burg. In addition, they were enchanted by the creations of a young, award-winning artist at the Kathmandu Art House, Roshan Dangol, and excitement built about the possibility

of exhibiting a sampling of his work at a venue in our city. This month, through the efforts of the Fredericksburg Nepal Exchange (sister city) and an array of folks in our community, this vision has become a reality. Roshan's enchanting and thoughtprovoking paintings will be exhibited at Rehana's restaurant throughout May with an opening reception on Friday, May 3, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Roshan Dangol was born in 1990 in Teku, Kathmandu. When he was just in his teens, he felt an emerging calling to the arts, which convey his country's spirit and culture with an artistic history that spans more than two millennia. He followed his internal compass and, with passion and single-minded focus, he pursued studies at the prestigious Lalit Kala Campus, where he earned his intermediate and bachelor's degrees in fine art and won awards in a

number of competitions.

Roshan's studio at the Kathmandu Art House is located on the campus of the Kathmandu Guest House, which is also the locale of the Museum of Nepali Art (MoNA), and he has received recognition and encouragement from its founder and director, Rajan Sakya, whose mission is to make the artwork of past and present Nepali master artists easily accessible to people in all sectors of society.

As Roshan pursued his passion for artistic creation, portraiture steadily emerged as his vehicle for artistic expression. For Roshan, portraits have the potential to convey, not only the physical likeness of his subjects, but also their spirit and internal life. Noting that the eyes are the window to the soul, Roshan's paintings convey both the current internal life of those he paints as well as their personal history of experiences-loves, losses, challenges and fulfillment, joys and sorrows. In fact, even Roshan's depiction of mountain scenes and iconic cultural images convey this same breadth and depth of his subjects, as is evidenced in his exhibition in Fredericksburg, which is titled "Ancestral Tranquility: Echoes of Kathmandu "

The paintings featured in this exhibit include "The Fish Tale" a peak of the magnificent snowcapped mountains that convey both power and tranquility and encircle Nepal, and "Ama Dablam (Mother's Necklace), a mountain peak close to the Everest region, whose elegant ridges form a shape that resembles a mother's arms extending to protect her child. Other works of art in the Fredericksburg display depict the deep cultural heritage and life of the people of Nepal. These include "Radha KrishnaTranscendence" which conveys the essence of music from an enchanting flute and dance that resonates beyond physical distances: "Kumari-The Living Goddess," which reflects the spiritual connection between the divine and human realms, and "Tibetan Prayer," hearkening to the multitude of religious affiliations, customs, cultures, and ethnicities in the region. In addition to the exhibit of Roshan's artwork at Rehana's, an aweinspiring 4 x6 ft painting, "Ghandruk" will be displayed at River Rock Outfitters,

which depicts an idyllic village celebrated for its magnificent mountain views, rich cultural legacy, and hospitality of its residents.

"We are so excited to host this event at Rehana's!" said restaurateurs Rick and Huda Maltbie. "Through our two trips to Nepal, we have become even more intertwined with our sister city Kathmandu and its lovely people." Two of the key community supporters who made the memorable experience of this fascinating exhibition possible are the Fredericksburg Arts Commission, which

provided crucial funding for the event, and the UMW Department of Art and Art History and UMW art students led by Dr. Tracy Stonestreet, for their invaluable contribution in preparing the art for the exhibition opening.

Collette Caprara is an artist who has visited Nepal several times with her husband David who is the Coordinator for the Fredericksburg Nepal Exchange

"Ancestral Tranquility: Echoes of Kathmandu " Works By Artist Roshan Dangol Opening Reception

May 3rd, 6 pm - 8 pm Rehana's Restaurant, 104 Wolfe Street, Free Exhibition

The exhibit will be displayed through May

“Krishna”, Roshan Dangol

Rock Around the Block Mid Century Style

suburb will be f e a t u r e d

Ready for a Mid Century Shindig? How about a Hanson Hullabaloo? It's time to Twist and Shout as we celebrate a neighborhood with a whole lot of history going on.

Fredericksburg's first postwar

Located just over Route One along the river, this subdivision has nearly 300 houses, most built in the 1950s. Spanning both sides of Fall Hill Avenue, several homes in both Normandy Village and the old fairground site will be on tour.

By Mayo Carter

In addition to the house tours, walking tours, music by The Acoustic Onion and The String Surfers, classic cars, a pop up museum and vintage lawn games (minus lawn darts!) are scheduled. The Historic Fredericksburg Foundation event is "brought to you by" Melisa Casacuberta at Coldwell Bankers Elite

In observance of Memorial Day, the neighborhood's American Legion Post # 55 will be open during this time. Many of the subdivision's original residents were WWII veterans and members of this post. This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Inside, one can reflect on the true price of freedom.

The Historic Fredericksburg Foundation dedicates this day to Margaret-AAnn Garner, a life-long Fredericksburg resident, who grew up in the neighborhood. Margaret-Ann was instrumental in the establishment of the Hope House in Fredericksburg. Her positive energy is still felt in this neighborhood.

Mayo Carter is a retired teacher, a community volunteer and a proud Normandy Villager

Rock Around The Block Saturday, May 25, 1-5 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at:Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc · Rock Around the Block Mid Century Style at Normandy Village Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 on the day of the event. Check in at Northside Baptist Church 445 Woodford St. Rain date is the following Monday, same time.

Rock Around The Block At Normandy Village Over Route 1 along the River Saturday, May 25, 1-5 5 p m Check in at Northside Baptist Church 445 Woodford St

Home of Mayo Carter, 424 Hanson Street, By John McMahon

Art in the Burg

Art Galleries in may

“Wallflowers & Shrinking Violets” works by Kimberly Zook

Opening Reception First Fri, May 3, 5--99p Brush. Strokes Gallery 824 Caroline Street

."Wallflowers and Shrinking Violets" Art Show at Brush Strokes Art Gallery is featuring artwork by mixed media artist Kimberly Zook, a local artist living in King George, Virginia. Zook's artwork is known for its creative eclectic style. From vibrant mosaics to lush abstracts, her paintings celebrate the spirit of nature.

"Wallflowers and Shrinking Violets" is a celebration of nature and is dedicated to women “I met many young women in the rural parts of Costa Rica who wanted to continue their education and seek employment, but were told to stay home, stop going to school after 8th grade, and to stay skinny, all so they could find a husband and become a homemaker. I thought of these women while painting. I thought of my own daughters, who are growing up in a world where boldness in a woman is still seen as a problem or unbecoming." says Zook.

“Most of my artwork is based on the flora and fauna I encountered while living in the cloud forest of Costa Rica for

a few years. During this time I lived alone in a small hut without electricity or indoor plumbing. I had no cell phone or any other means of technology. It was during this time that I had the fortune of experiencing the sixth sense and it is my hope that my art can radiate a touch of what I experienced there”

Collette Caprara

"Lovely Linens"

Woven Works by Linda George Artful Dimensions, 922

Caroline St

Opening Reception, First Friday May 3, , 6-99pm

Linda George has always enjoyed needlework, especially knitting, sewing, and cross-stitch. In 1987, after discovering the Fredericksburg Spinners and Weavers Guild, she learned to use a spinning wheel and to weave on a loom. Most of her weaving is functional, with a goal to bring beauty to everyday settings. In addition to her finely woven towels and placemats, she creates stunning wearable art.

Linda has taken many classes at The Mannings Weaving School, Red Stone Glen Fiber Arts Center, Vavstuga, and at the MidAtlantic Fiber Association Conference, and she has received awards from the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival, the Montpelier Fall Fiber Festival, theVirginia State Fair, and she won third place in LibertyTown's Patron Show

~ Sally Cooney Anderson

Darbytown Art Studio 241 Charles St May 3, 5-88:30p Works by Cliff Satterwaite.

Complete Collection

“Everything Spring” Art Alliance at Jarrett Thor Fine Arts 100 Taylor St , Suite 101, Colonial Beach .A group display celebrating spring. Exhibit thru May 5 ~ Rob Rudick

.~Jeannie Ellis

‘Time Stands Still” works by Judy Green

Opening reception 1st Friday, May 3, 6pm to 9pm

Art First, 824 Caroline St

It's a family affair at Art First Gallery opening night. Award winning artist Judy Green is the featured artist. The live folk music planned for that night adds an additional flair -- performed by Green's son: GreenBean.

Judy Green's work is a collection of still life subjects catching life, and light, with verve and vigor on the canvas. She juxtaposes deep background colors with bright highlights -- to propel the subject matter forward in a startling and captivating manor. At least 15 of her works will be on display in the main exhibit room.

Gallery Members are hanging new works as well -- always in the traditional Art First Gallery style: eclectic but holding to a higher standard. Meet the artists. Sample the refreshments. Listen to GreenBean in the gallery. Catch the new vibe at Art First

~Gary Close

Patrons Show works by members

Libertytown Arts Workshop reception, First Friday May 3, 5-88p 916 Liberty St

"Ancestral Tranquility: Echoes of Kathmandu " Works By Artist Roshan Dangol Opening Reception May 3rd, 6 pm - 8 pm Rehana's Restaurant, 104 Wolfe Street, Free Exhibition The exhibit will be displayed through May

Artist on Site Saturdays

“ Mariposas”Kimberly Zook @ BSG

“Piazza Navona Bench”,Robyn Ryan “Happy Faces ”,Beverley Coates “Refuge”,Lynn Abbott

Linda George @Artful Dimensions

Rita Kovach @Art Alliance

“5 O’Clock, Judy Green @Art First

Cliff Satterwaite@Darbytown Art Studio

Wallflowers and Shrinking Violets" Art Show at Brush Strokes Art Gallery is featuring artwork by mixed media artist Kimberly Zook, a local artist living in King George, Virginia.Zook's artwork is known for its creative eclectic style. From vibrant mosaics to lush abstracts, her paintings celebrate the spirit of nature.

She holds an M.S. in Biology and an M.A. in Education, but left academia to live alone in a casita in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. There she discovered the richness of biodiversity, which has become the inspiration behind her artwork. Through her bold simplicity and vibrant, lush colors, Zook seeks to convey expressive and keen intuitive responses to the rich, diverse natural world. "I didn't live alone in my casita in the jungle," says Zook with a wink and a shudder.

"Scorpions, tarantulas, snakes, mice, and lizards came and went, often crawling

over me during the night. Living away from electricity, technology, and even

Artist Spotlight

kimberly zook

By collette caprara

indoor plumbing, gave me the chance to really immerse myself in nature. You start to sense things before you see them."

“As an artist, I am fascinated by the overlap of science and art. Science is the pursuit of truth through observation and experiment while art is the quest of truth not always visible to the eye. The combination of these truths is what inspires my art. I'm fascinated with the smallest of details in nature and how art allows us to see and appreciate them”, says Zook

“My art reflects the details in life through the mosaic technique I often use and the vibrant, lush colors I work with. I find the combination of watercolor, gouache, and ink adds to the richness of my paintings. I hope the viewer will feel there's more than what the eye first sees when looking at my work.”

"Wallflowers and Shrinking Violets" is a celebration of nature and is

dedicated to women, young and old, for being strong, dynamic, and beautiful people in a world that often oppresses them. "I hope my paintings make people think of women who go unnoticed or unheard even though they're fighting each day to be seen and have their voices heard," says Zook

“Irish Wilds”

“Purple Craze”

Auto Known Better Snippets of Whippets

By Rim Vining

What's new in my world of automotive bliss?

This month it's little snippets which are like Whippets but not as fast. Sadly I know that the Whippet was actually a popular car model from WillysKnight up until the 30's featuring a sleevevalved engine design which eliminated the need for valves. Perhaps you didn't know that and were sleeping quite soundly without such knowledge. I envy you.

Moving on… what about those pesky young hooligans in their EV street racers that you can't even hear. (That's' EV not L7) My guess is soon they'll start blasting canned muscle car recordings through their blue tooth speakers just to get that "street sound" and using "high test" cologne to enhance their machismo or else be forever known as the "Silent Generation II." Imagine cologne with an octane level. You couldn't start your car with Jade East or English Leather.

Then we have the customer who actually used the line, "Hey Rim, there's a new 'B' in town." Sounds innocent enough if you recognize that it is shorthand for another MGB sports car. But me? My brain immediately went to gunfights on dusty streets and cattle stampedes so I spent the rest of the day looping Gary Cooper and John Wayne movies in my head while singing "Big Iron" and "Liberty Valance" over and over and over. Which of course led to "Blazing Saddles" and Gene Wilder's wonderful summation of the town's folk reaction to the new sheriff in town… "You mean morons?"

Having started a family in the 80's with two boys I know all of the "Back to the Future" movies by heart so the western themed #3 got honorable mention in my head as well with great lines from Buford and his gang like "I'll hunt you down like a duck... That's a dog Buford." And Marty McFly with, "I do my killin' after breakfast." Besides, it is the only western that features a Delorean

Yes, the stainless steel beast that barely went 88 MPH under its own power so pushing it with a steam locomotive was actually brilliant. The original hybrid.

Needless to say the rest of the day was toast. But I've moved on.

You can't stroll into the fields of May flowers without honoring all the mothers on Mother's Day! When Kathy and I were first married we hosted a Mother's Day brunch with our neighbors. The only requirement for attending was that you had to bring your mother or have had a mother. Most of our friends met the requirement.

Being in our twenties and actually getting to meet our friend's parents was fantastic! It also did a lot to explain our friend's character and the life choices they might have made. Actually, the fact that their mother's came said the most. I never figured out if they were

there to enjoy some fellowship or to check up on who their children were hanging out with. A bit of both I imagine.

That set the stage for the hundreds of get-togethers we have enjoyed with friends since that time. The parents were always in attendance. We all grew up together. They raised us all, especially when we started families of our own. Now we are the elder parents at the picnic and many of the moms and dads from those years have passed on. We miss them. There were so many questions we should have asked and thanks we should have given

I don't have a Delorean and there is no Back to the Future so ask the questions now and tell them how much you love them. Happy Mother's Day!

~autoknownbetter@gmail.com

Rim Vining, humorist, friend and a devoted community volunteer.

A Tribute to Mothers to all who have mothered

By Kathleen Harrigan

Throughout our lives we have many strong relationships. Some we are born into; some we find along the way as extensions of other relationships, or as new bonds of mentoring and friendship, that enrich our lives. For me, some of the strongest relationships have been with the women in my life: my mother and grandmother (her mother), aunts (by blood or by friendship), nieces and, of course, my friends. In different circumstances, I have been mothered by all of them, and, in turn, have been able to offer the same kindness to some of them. I've offered care, support, and safety.

Today, I'd like to give a shout out to all who have "mothered" or been "mothered." The strength embodied in the act of giving and receiving, the love and the patience.

At Empowerhouse , we serve many mothers and their children. I've heard stories of women in abusive relationships who have courageously risked everything to protect their children. I've also had adult children share their experiences growing up with domestic violence as part of the fabric of their family life. Whatever the circumstance, when someone's experiences with domestic violence includes children or youth, I find myself leaning in, listening deeply, taking the facts in, imaging the fear, the trauma, as well as the hope for a way past the violence.

I am glad that I have heard these stories. I'm glad Empowerhouse has been there to offer care, support, and safety. I'm glad our staff answer our confidential Hotline 24/7, offer housing and shelter, are advocates in court and healthcare settings, engage children and youth in conversations about healthy relationships, and do so much more. In 2023, Empowerhouse:

Supported 3,800 survivors of domestic violence.

Sheltered and housed 280 women and children.

Connected 3,700 elementary, middle, and high school students with our Healthy Relationships Classroom Presentations.

You can learn more about Empowerhouse, and the services offered, on our website (www.empowerhouseva.org). In particular, I invite you to read one of the Client Stories presented there or watch Kelsey's story (highlighted in the November 2023 Front Porch) on our YouTube Channel https://youtu.be/6l3ChdN8Asw. You can watch her speak of her harrowing escape from domestic violence and, also, learn about the life she and her four children have created as survivors.

Our Client Stories share a glimpse of how Empowerhouse supports survivors of domestic violence in neighborhoods across our community. You can help a survivor overcome domestic violence and get back on her feet by making a donation today at www empowerhouseva org or to Empowerhouse at PO Box 1007, Fredericksburg, VA 22402 If you know someone who needs help, remember it is all about the first step. You are not alone. There is help available by calling Empowerhouse's 24/7 confidential Hotline number: 540-373-9373.

Kathleen Harrigan is a member of the Empowerhouse Board of Directors and strongly believes in the kindness and, also, the care, support, safety planning offered to survivors of domestic violence by Empowerhouse.

Empowerhouse is a non-pprofit organization providing domestic violence assistance in the city of Fredericksburg and the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline These services include a free and confidential 24-hhour hotline, a temporary emergency shelter, information, referrals and advocacy

C o m p a n i o n s

fostering pregnant rescue dogs

by lenoraKruk-Mullanaphy

Just 13 years old when she started volunteering at Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS), Meghan Cohn has continued her work with the rescue dogs for six years. She found her niche in fostering pregnant dogs and caring for them and their litters. The teenager has fostered 14 pregnant dogs and their pups, which totals about 112 puppies.

Cohn, of Stafford County, has a special place in her heart for pregnant dogs, especially after learning that they and their litters were the first to get euthanized in many shelters ODHS is a nokill rescue that saves many pregnant dogs, and Cohn wanted to help make them comfortable and cared for until they were eventually adopted.

"These pregnant moms and their puppies can't survive in a shelter environment," Cohn said. "Nursing moms is one of the easiest types to foster, because the moms handle the puppies and take care of them completely on their own until four weeks. That's when the puppies transition from nursing to eating puppy food."

Cohn needed a space to keep the "mom" dogs and their babies that was separate from everyone inside the house. Newborn puppies aren't yet vaccinated and are susceptible to disease and infection She researched how she could make a "maternity ward" for these furry friends in her house. Cohn found that cleaning out the garage, setting up a playpen and making a comfortable space for the first couple of litters worked well. Then, there was a glitch in the set up when one nimble mom was able to hop over the

pen, and Cohn had to go to plan B. It just so happened that a free kennel on the Facebook Marketplace was available at the time. Ever since the kennel was installed in the garage, Cohn has found that the rescues thrived.

Watching the puppies grow is fascinating to Cohn. When they're born, the pups are 100 percent dependent on the mom for everything-food, warmth and teaching them how to go to the bathroom. Newborn puppies aren't able to go on their own until three weeks old and need the mother to stimulate them to do so. By six weeks of age, the puppies are amazingly doing everything by themselves.

"There really isn't much to it," she said. "I leave the mom alone to nest and decompress and hand-feed her high-value food, such as chicken, to help her build trust in me. The moms are dewormed, if needed, and treated for any issues, which is the same for all dogs that arrive at ODHS. ODHS has support groups for just about everything, and when I've had any questions during the entire process, I was able find answers in the chat group."

Since Cohn was 13 when she started volunteering at ODHS, her parents drove her to the Fredericksburg facility. She said it was just like having them drive her to any sports practice. In the end, she traded in her sneakers and sports for volunteering at the rescue and was able to help a few days a week.

In fact, fostering and volunteering has brought the family even closer together. Cohn always has a new dog story to talk about when she comes home. Her dad is frequently at the rescue to help when something needs to be fixed. It's even helped her become more independent, and now she's adept at installing her own washer and dryer from watching him replace those at the center. With fostering, it's easy to become attached to the dogs and puppies, but Cohn keeps it in perspective. "I haven't kept any of the moms or puppies I've fostered, because the more I keep the less I can foster," she said.

A 2022 graduate of Mountainview High School, Cohn displayed her love of dogs and volunteering by

wearing a visible ODHS T-shirt under her graduation gown. While she loves working with dogs, she's still undecided about what occupational direction she'll take. She currently works in logistics and handles hazardous materials at BallistiX Coatings & Sealers in Fredericksburg.

Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is a Public Relations Professional & a ODHS volunteer

ODHS is located at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard in Fredericksburg Adoption events are Wednesdays from 5-7 7 p m , Fridays from 6-8 8 p m and Saturdays from 12-4 4 p m Applications in advance are preferred and take priority over walk-iins For more information about the dogs available for adoption and adoption applications, as well as upcoming events, volunteering, fostering and donating items, visit www olddominionhumanesociety org

THE THE POETRY MAN POETRY MAN

By Frank Fratoe

Our Marriage Our Marriage (For Jane)

You were always at my side as we held each other before sleep changed to dreams or during the day hen our coupling was imminent for both to share and I heard your music singing often in my heart to bring the kinship of love.

Slumber afterward is almost impossible for me yet desire goes on remembering two people in one which all the years will not ever take from us as insomnia returns and marriage has disappeared without you here.

Frank Fratoe writes poetry from the heart

The month of May starts out with some interesting energy. Mars entered the sign of Aries on April 30. Mars rules the sign of Aries, so it is right at home and ready to go on May 1. The energy is dynamic, initiating, and certainly powerful and independent. Mars is one of

of may

Astrology & You the month

By Dianne Bachman

the five personal planets (along with Sun, Moon, Venus, and Mercury) because the orbit is relatively short (687 days). The energy of Mars in Aries can give us the confidence and oomph to break through any lack of certainty and energy we may have experienced during its journey through Pisces. Full speed ahead is one of the take aways for this transit. The first two weeks could find us so empowered by the Mars transit that we may be a bit impulsive and more like a bull in a china shop lest we remember to s-l-ow down. When Mercury enters the sign of Taurus toward the middle of the month, we may feel a bit more grounded, prepared to take a leisurely approach to life. This would be a suitable time to rest, reflect on any progress you have made during the first two weeks of May.

On May 1 Pluto will station retrograde at 2 degrees in the sign of Aquarius. Pluto is considered a transpersonal or generational planet because it takes 248 years to complete its orbit. So, tata for now( almost), Pluto! The next time we see you in Capricorn will be the year 2272!! Pluto will station direct on October 11 at 29 degrees Capricorn. Pluto is the energy of change, metamorphosis, and is not so gentle in its process. I have heard it referred to as the 'cosmic roto rooter,' stirring up and clearing out. Pluto in Capricorn energies represent changes in business, industry, government, traditional structures, and how we seek the truth How we as the collective use these energies is another story.

As Pluto enters Aquarius at the end of 2024, we see the shift to innovations and a futuristic focus Aquarius can embody the energies of humanitarianism, the greater good for the collective, breakthroughs in science and technology. Astrologers have speculated on the advances in Artificial Intelligence and where the next decade or two will take us all. Pluto in Aquarius can also embody the spirit of rebellion and revolution. The last time Pluto entered Aquarius was in 1778 and in our country, there was quite a focus on transformation, rebellion, and innovation regarding creating a new republic. In June 1777, our nation's flag was created! So, my friends, let us have hope that we transform our world into a place that embraces common goals, mutual understanding, and that celebrates innovation and cooperation. We are given the gift of possibilities. It is up to us to choose wisely.

Now let's look at the astrological weather for the rest of May:

April 30 Mars enters the sign of Aries at 11:33 a.m. (see above)

May 2 Pluto stations retrograde at 2 degrees Aquarius at 1:47 pm (see above)

May 8 New Moon in Taurus 18 degrees at 11:22 pm. Self-care, comfort, security is the theme for the next few days. Focus on what helps you feel peaceful and nurturedmassage, spending time in nature, eating yummy food.

Taurus Moon Sextile Saturn in Pisces can either ground our dreams or help us break through barriers use of the imagination. If you can imagine it, you can build it.

May 13 Mercury retro shadow ends. Hooray! Mercury made it back to 27 degrees Aries and put the retrograde kafuffles behind us. I don't know about you, but I had a few hairy retrograde moments this time around!

May 15 Mercury enters Taurus. Grounded energy and communication is favored. The ability to understand, explore, and express personal values is a gift of this earth and air sign combo.

May 20 Sun enters Gemini and spotlights curiosity and conversation. Learn something new or teach a skill to someone. Social activities can be fun and easy, even for introverts.

Jupiter in Taurus sextile Neptune. Get creative, dance, sing, start that craft project, allow the adventurer within to take the lead and imagine your next escapade.

May 23 Full Moon at 2 degrees Sagittarius. Time for an exciting trek somewhere totally different. Think freely. Take a new route to work or shop at a world market.

Venus enters Gemini If you are in a social mood, this combo's energy definitely has the potential to charm and woo your audience. Keep conversation light and airy.

May 26 Jupiter enters Gemini. Jupiter will be in Gemini until June 2025 and this energy combo can be mentally overwhelming for some of us. If you are feeling trounced by the myriad of thoughts and plans swirling around your head, remember to take a break and breathe.

Dianne Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com artwork Aquarius, from a Book of Hours, Italy, circa 1475

Give a Child Something to Think About

Amusing Novelties

Fredericksburg Sketches

A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

Purina Tower

Sometimes when I know that a building is going to be changed, I try to get a sketch of it before the changes are made. I recently heard that the Purina Tower will be repainted and I had an opportunity to sketch it from the fourth floor of a building across the street. Several of us sketched from this vantage point on a clear spring afternoon and it was interesting to see the city from a vantage point above it. We are always looking for new ways to see our town.

P.S. I also love sketching utility poles

Paula Raudenbush is an admin for the Fredericksburg Chapter of the Urban Sketchers and maintains a studio in Libertytown Arts Workshop.

If any of you have driven down Sophia Street in downtown Fredericksburg recently, you will notice that the lovely mural featuring Johnny P Johnson, local artist, teacher, and humanitarian, is crumbling. This mural by local artist, Bill Harris, was dedicated in July 2018 as part of a day-long celebration of the countless contributions "Johnny P." made to our community.

It distresses us greatly at RappArts to see this mural in such shape. Since RappArts was part of the Johnny P. Johnson Day in 2018 and supported the creation of this mural, we are spearheading a fundraising campaign to restore or replace this mural in a more permanent manner At this point, RappArts, a 501c3 nonprofit arts advocacy organization, has asked several specialists to give their opinions about

Johnny Johnson mural restoration project

By catherine k. walker

various methods to restore the mural as well as some placement options that will ensure that this mural will continue to be a tribute to this important Fredericksburg citizen whose life has influenced so many generations. Preliminary estimates for this project are in the $4000-$7500 range.

Therefore, RappArts is asking for the community's support in contributing money to this mural restoration project. Donations for this valuable project can be made in several ways:

1) Write a check to Rapp Arts and mail to RappArts, P.O. Box 3882, Fredericksburg, VA 22402. Please write "Mural Project Donation" in the memo line.

2) Use Venmo to make an online donation. Go to Venmo @rapp-artsfredericksburg, Marianne Robinson, Last 4 digits of Phone Number: 2848 What is this for? Mural Project Donation

3) Use PayPal to make an online donation: Treasurer@rapp-arts.org,

Arts & Cultural Council of the Rappahannock Add a message: Mural Project Donation

4) Some employers will match donations to nonprofit organizations. Please check with your company to see if you can request a matching amount for your donation.

For additional information, contact Catherine K. Walker, President of RappArts, at 540-373-9338 or email her at walkerck921@gmail.com.

We at RappArts sincerely appreciate your support to this important effort to make this mural a more permanent, lasting reminder of Johnny P.'s community impact.

Catherine K. Walker is President of RappArt

Johnny P Johnson Mural Now in a State of Deterioration