From the Bay to the Blue Ridge
Since 1988 • Priceless
JUNE 2022
oldtowncrier oldtowncrier.com
otcregionalmag
Setting the Standard In Old Town Since 1979
june‘22 A Division of Crier Media Group OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 571-257-5437 office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month. Worth waiting for! PUBLISHER Bob Tagert MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert Meg Mullery
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SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Erin Koons
A Bit of History ............................................................... 8
Fitness ............................................................................... 39
Open Space .................................................................... 42
CONTRIBUTORS
After hours ...................................................................... 11
From the Bay .................................................................. 24
Personality Profile........................................................... 4
Alexandria Events .......................................................... 2
From the Trainer........................................................... 38
Art & Antiques.................................................................15
Gallery Beat..................................................................... 14
Business Profile ............................................................... 6
Go Fish .............................................................................. 41
Caribbean Connection .............................................. 20
Grapevine......................................................................... 33
Dining Guide................................................................... 31
High Notes ...................................................................... 11
Dining Out ..................................................................... 30
Let's Eat............................................................................. 28
Exploring VA Wines .................................................... 35
Let's Get Crafty ............................................................ 36
The Last Word ................................................................12
Financial Focus ............................................................... 7
National Harbor ........................................................... 44
To the Blue Ridge ......................................................... 26
First Blush ....................................................................... 40
On the Road .................................................................... 1
Urban Garden ............................................................... 10
Stephen Bearce Sarah Becker Alexander Britel Cheryl Burns F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Carolyn Cockroft Beth Crabtree Scott Dicken Doug Fabbioli Matt Fitzsimmons Nicole Flanagan Alberta Frost Lani Gering Miriam Kramer
Genevieve LeFranc Timothy Long Cindy McGovern Meg Mullery Melinda Murphy Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Jaime Stephens Ashley Stimpson Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown
© 2022 Crier Media Group, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The Old Town Crier is published monthly and distributed to select Alexandria residents, hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Also distributed in the Annapolis, Fredericksburg, Blue Ridge and Washington, DC areas and St. John, USVI.
On the road with OTC
About the Cover Don't forget to fly your flag proudly on the 14th as we celebrate Flag Day 2022. — Photo by Lee Moody Anyone remember where this mural was in Old Town Alexandria?
Old Town Crier
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OTC Contributing writer Lori Welch Brown and her husband George joined a group of friends and former Woodbridge Senior High School alums on a long overdue trip to Italy. They traveled, ate and drank their way through Rome, Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Volterra, San Gimignano, and Positano. Pictured here in Ravello (from L/R): Rock and Beth Herndon; Monica Mills; Lori and George Brown; Vicky and Mark Urrutic, Mike Bopp, Kim Luker Chinn, and Dave Mills.
Pets of the Month ........................................................ 19 Points on Pets ................................................................ 18 Publishers notes ............................................................ 2 Road Trip ......................................................................... 22 Take Photos, Leave Footprints.................................16
If you would like to have your photo featured in this space, grab a copy of the Old Town Crier and take it with you on your adventure and snap a photo or three of you having some fun with it in hand and email it to office@ oldtowncrier.com. Be sure to include information for the caption and your mailing address so we can send you a hard copy. Your photo will appear on our website/blog as well as Facebook and Instagram pages.
June 2022 1
PUBLISHER’S NOTES
BOB TAGERT
Alexandria
Was great to connect with our girl Lauren Fleming at her new job at Dividing Creek Brewery in Old Town Winchester! Lauren did a fabulous job designing the OTC for over 5 years. We wish her much success. First of all I want to apologize to our readers and advertisers. You all may have noticed that the paper quality on the May issue is inferior. Our printer took it upon themselves to print us on a lower grade paper without discussing it with us. Two months in a row they have been out of the paper we normally use so we are forced to accept a lesser grade. The pandemic made us move from a glossy cover to a 50 pound bright and now this. My apologies for the paper but be assured that the content is the same “quality” content that you have come to depend on. A recap of said content is below. As Old Town Alexandria ponders about the future of the emerging pedestrian walk in the 100 block of King Street, we took a Road Trip to check out the Loudoun Walking Mall in Winchester, Virginia. Let’s hope that the results of our endeavor on lower King Street ends up like this Walking Mall. Sarah Becker takes us back to the Democratic Convention of 1924 in her History column. The Business Profile takes on a different vent with a piece about the Murals of Del Ray. The mural on the cover is no longer and wasn’t in Del Ray. Does anyone remember this one? Watch for info about an upcoming contest on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Meg Mullery introduces you to “Sophia” the Little Yellow Sofa in this month’s Personality Profile column. Sophia gets around and is very special to those in the Blue Ridge area. Doug Fabbioli discusses “Agritourism” in his Exploring Virginia Wines column while Matt Fitzsimmons highlights one of the Virginia’s “Forgotten Wineries” in Grapevine. In Let’s Get Crafty Tim Long checks out St. Barths, Rhum, Ti’ Punch and Cuban Cigars. Beth Crabtree interviews local DMV sailor Mark Burrows in From the Bay and Julie Reardon gives us her take on Rich Strike and his chances at the Belmont in To the Blue Ridge. Check out the Caribbean Connection and read about the Caribbean’s newest Reggae hit – check out the video on the Caribbean Connection post on our website. Open Space’s Lori Welch Brown recalls “For the Love of Dads” and reminisces about her father John. Speaking of Fathers – be sure to treat the Dads in your life to something special on the 19th! Let’s also remember to fly our Flay high on the 14th in celebration of Flag Day 2022 and plan something you love to do to welcome in summer on the 21st — it is the longest day of the year!
2 June 2022
Summer Events Feature Outdoor Festivals, Historical Happenings and More – JUNE 2022 Photo by Chris Cruz
17TH & 18TH Portside in Old Town Summer Festival 6 to 9 p.m., Fri. - 1 to 9 p.m. Admission: Free Waterfront Park 1A Prince Street portsidefestival.com Kick off summer with the return of the Portside in Old Town Summer Festival. This free festival features an array of live music, local craft beer from Port City Brewing Company and fun for the whole family on the Alexandria waterfront. New this year, the event merges with the 44th Annual Alexandria Jazz Fest on Friday evening to showcase jazz performances and readings by Alexandria poets. Saturday the festival continues with an eclectic musical lineup, local food, handson art and history activities and more. The Portside in Old Town Summer Festival is produced by Visit Alexandria in partnership with the City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts, a division of the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities.
10TH – 12TH George Washington’s Mount Vernon Summerfest 6 to 9 p.m. Admission: $48 for general public; $40 for members George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway 703-780-2000 mountvernon.org/summerfest Experience Mount Vernon after hours and sample craft beer from breweries from throughout the region while enjoying live music. Your ticket includes a commemorative tasting cup and eight tasting tickets. Additional tastings are available to purchase on-site.
24TH & 25TH Independence Fireworks at George Washington’s Mount Vernon 6 to 9:30 p.m. Admission with mansion tour: $50 for general public; $40 for member; $38 for youth; $28 for youth member Admission without mansion tour: $45 for general public; $35 for member; $33 for youth; $22 for youth member George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway 703-780-2000 mountvernon.org/fireworks Enjoy an evening of family fun and fireworks along with patriotic music to celebrate our nation’s founding. Tickets are available with or without Mansion tours. Access to
the Mansion is by guided tour only. This event features performances by the National Concert Band and The Fifes & Drums of Yorktown.
MORE SUMMER EVENTS & TOURS 2ND
First Thursday in Del Ray 6 p.m. Admission: Free Various locations in Del Ray visitdelray.com Held the first Thursday through August along Mount Vernon Avenue in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, First Thursday is a series of free outdoor street festivals that bring the community together around a fun theme, benefiting a local nonprofit. This summer’s themes include “Unmask Your Superhero First Thursday,” “First Thursday Red, White & Blue,” “First Thursday Aloha Thursday” and “First Thursday Show Your Spirit,” respectively.
3RD THRU NOVEMBER 19TH Lives Worth Celebrating: Stories of Resilience, Rebellion and Freedom at Lee-Fendall House Admission: $7 per person Lee-Fendall House 614 Oronoco Street 703-548-1789 leefendallhouse.org Explore a timeline of major events related to the history of slavery in the Americas as you learn about legendary African American leaders, stories of self-liberation and family legacies including the descendants of free and enslaved African Americans who worked at the Lee-Fendall House. Part 1: “Freedom” will launch this 3-part exhibit which will delve into stories of rebellion and resilience by enslaved people in America over the next two years.
3RD – 5TH 13th Annual Taste of Del Ray Admission: $5 per person Various restaurants in Del Ray visitdelray.com Top area restaurants are slated to participate in the 13th Annual Taste of Del Ray, a delicious competition where each venue offers a special $5 taste at their restaurant. Taste of Del Ray weekend kicks off with a VIP reception on June 2nd featuring wine and unlimited tastes from top Del Ray restaurants. VIP tickets are $50 per person; for more information, visit visitdelray.com.
ALEXANDRIA EVENTS > PAGE 5
Old Town Crier
Photo by Enriquez
A L E X A N D R I A C E L E B R AT E S
STAY UP TO DATE on what to do, where to
shop and dine, and the latest happenings this summer.
MONTH 2022 The perfect home base for visitors, Alexandria is a welcoming and inclusive destination mere minutes away from D.C.’s Capital Pride activities occurring throughout the month. Plan your stay in Old Town Alexandria with special Pride Month hotel packages. Explore more ways to celebrate Pride Month in Alexandria at VisitAlexandria.com/Pride.
JUNE 4TH 5th Annual Celebrate Alexandria Pride Event 1 to 4 p.m. Admission: Free
Charles Houston Recreation Center 901 Wythe Street alexandriava.gov/LGBTQ The Alexandria LGBTQ+ Task Force invites you to join its 5th Annual Celebrate Alexandria Pride Event at Charles Houston Recreation Center. Back by popular demand in partnership with the Alexandria Library is “Drag Queen Story Time with Venus” at 2 p.m., perfect for children ages 3 to 8. Enjoy spoken word with C. Thomas at 3 p.m. Collect Pride swag, enjoy music and food, make some art, pose for a Pride pic, and learn about LGBTQinclusive services in Alexandria. Free and confidential HIV testing available.
JUNE 10TH The Late Shift: ALX Pride at the Torpedo Factory Art Center 7 to 10 p.m. Admission: Free Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N Union Street 703-746-4570 torpedofactory.org ALX Pride is a community-focused event to celebrate LGBTQ+ creatives in Alexandria and beyond with a night of arts projects along the waterfront and the Union Street entrances as well as throughout the building in a myriad of styles and celebrations.
JUNE 21ST Make Your Own Pride Patches 12 to 1:30 p.m. Admission: Free Barrett Branch Library 717 Queen Street alexlibraryva.org
Old Town Crier
Teens are invited to come to the Barrett Branch Library to make a LGBTQIA+ Pride patch that can be added to your jacket, your backpack or wherever you like. Make a patch in one of four styles for yourself and for friends. Please wear clothing you don’t mind getting ruined. Weather permitting, the workshop will take place outside. Otherwise, it will take place on the second floor of the library. Register to get the most up to date information. Open to all teens ages 12 to 18. For more information contact Megan at mzimmerman@ alexlibraryva.org or Vanessa at vsalo@alexlibraryva.org.
JUNE 22ND
Here’s how 1. Check out the newVisitAlexandria.com 2. Stay tuned to our “The Best Of” blog:
VisitAlexandria.com/BestOf
3. Follow Visit Alexandria on social media
Create Tie-Dye Pride Tote Bags 4 to 5:30 p.m. Admission: Free Beatley Central Library 5005 Duke Street alexlibraryva.org Create a tie-dye Pride tote bag using permanent markers and rubbing alcohol. All materials will be provided, but you may bring additional items to tie-dye if desired. For teens and adults. Registration is required. This event is scheduled to take place in the Frank and Betty Wright Reading Garden, but in case of inclement weather, it will be moved indoors.
4. Sign up for the Alexandria Insider monthly e-newsletter
VisitAlexandria.com/eNews
JUNE 26TH Growing Pride at The Garden 12 to 5 p.m. Admission: Free The Garden at Building Momentum 5380 Eisenhower Ave. Suite C 703-566-9000 thegarden.net Growing Pride at The Garden is back for its second year celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride on Saturday, June 26th. This family-friendly event is Alexandria’s largest Pride celebration. It will feature 15 local LGBTQ+ makers and allies, local food trucks, live music and crafting at Building Momentum’s The Garden ALX.
Corporate Partner:
June 2022 3
PERSONALITY PROFILE
MEG MULLERY
I’m very proud to be called a pig. It stands for Pride, Integrity and Guts
Lonesome Dove Meet “Sophie”
A
dmit it. Spotting a celebrity is fun. A “meh” day turns exciting when you realize the familiar dude ordering a latte played Owen Wilson’s buddy in that movie about crashing weddings. Not so in the village of Middleburg in rural Virginia where the sport of celebrity sightings is as common as the sport of polo. This tony enclave for the horsey set boasts a plethora of restaurants, boutiques, antique shops, wineries and upscale hotels, all serving as a magnet for the rich and famous for decades. Jackie Kennedy could be spotted attending church in Middleburg and on horseback galloping through fields following a pack of hounds. Elizabeth Taylor shopped at the local Safeway when married to Virginia’s beloved Senator John Warner. Last year, the Boss himself cheered on his daughter, Jessica Springsteen, an equestrian show jumping champion and Olympic medal winner, at a prestigious horse show. One exception exists. While generally adopting a
blasé attitude toward celebrities, catching a glimpse of long-time resident Robert Duvall provides the jolt that enhances your day and makes you want to call a friend and say, “Guess who I just saw.” Mr. Duvall, fondly remembered for his award-winning portrayal of Texas Ranger Gus McCrae in Lonesome Dove, is much like Gus. Gracious. Feisty. Funny. Genuine. Mr. Duvall’s unique status notwithstanding, recently Middleburg’s typical insouciance toward celebrities has been subsumed by the excitement and anticipation of a sighting of another sort. Meet Little Yellow Sofa. Named “Sofia”, at first glance she looks like just another pretty couch. But scratch her upholstery and discover a Little Yellow Sofa imbued with a certain je ne sais quoi combined with an aura of gravitas and, yes, even mysticism. Little Yellow Sofa, silently, mysteriously and randomly, manifests herself in absurd settings. She makes cameos at the Middleburg post office, in the woods as a tiny but mighty fixture between towering trees, surrounded by hounds at a steeple chase event. Photos of these appearances, accompanied by a witty
Water links to our neighbor in a way more profound and complex than any other.” John Thorston 4 June 2022
saying or motivational quote, appear on Facebook and Instagram. They inspire joyful comments from her legions of followers who express delight and appreciation for Little Yellow Sofa’s wisdom or silliness. Serendipity, teamed with brain-storming among Natalie Fox and two friends, spawned the concept of Little Yellow Sofa. In an enlightened moment, the threesome brought Sofia along to their elaborate tailgate at a local point-to-point race. The reason: it was a ridiculous thing to do. But Sofia’s presence was such a hit and drew so much attention that the idea of a traveling Little Yellow Sofa sprang to life. Natalie Fox, an artist and the owner of what used to be an inanimate object, is clearly blessed with the creative gene. Born and raised in Alexandria but soon to move to Middleburg, Natalie is a familiar presence in the arts community. She recently was named one of the “women to watch in Hunt Country” for her drawings and paintings, particularly of scenes depicting equestrian themes. Her realist paintings of horses demonstrate a passionate admiration for the animal. They often sell before the paint fully dries. When asked the meaning of Little Yellow Sofa, Natalie returns to a quote of Lonesome Dove’s Gus McCrae: “The only healthy way to live life is to learn to like all the little everyday things, like a sip of good whiskey in the evening, a soft bed, a glass of buttermilk, or a feisty gentleman like myself.” To be clear, Sofia has no plans to nudge Mr. Duvall off the celebrity pedestal. Her focus remains on bringing smiles and joy to her followers and, just maybe, provide a moment of reflection on life and what is truly important. Sofia remains grounded despite an ever-expanding fan base. Her ego is intact. Little Yellow Sofa harbors no ambitions to become a sectional. About the Author: Meg Mullery is a contributing writer and Blue Ridge distribution “assistant” to the OTC and just a great all around person. She is a Middleburg resident and spends some of her valuable time selling real estate for Washington Fine Properties and volunteering at Sprout – a therapeutic riding program in Aldie.
Natalie and one of her paintings. Old Town Crier
ALEXANDRIA EVENTS | FROM PAGE 2
3RD Interpreting the Enslaved People of Mount Vernon 7 p.m. Admission: $8 per person Lee-Fendall House 614 Oronoco Street 703-548-1789 leefendallhouse.org Join in this talk and learn about various ways of interpreting the enslaved people at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Learn about the different techniques, the challenges and future goals. The talk will be given by Jeremy Ray, the Director of Interpretation at Mount Vernon.
5TH & 19TH Free Yoga in the Fresh Air in Old Town North 9 to 10 a.m. Admission: Free Montgomery Park Gazebo 901 North Royal Street 571-218-2161 riversedgeyoga.com Start your day with a burst of energy from this all-level al fresco yoga class offered on select Sundays throughout the summer.
10TH & 24TH Trivia Nights at Historic Sites 7 to 9 p.m. Admission: $8 Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden 614 Oronoco Street 703-548-1789 leefendallhouse.org Staff members at Carlyle House Historic Park and the Lee-Fendall House Museum combine their knowledge to create bi-weekly trivia nights throughout the summer in the beautiful gardens of the Lee-Fendall House. Test your knowledge on everything from pop culture to history. Registration must be done in advance. Limited capacity so register early! Tickets include snacks and one complimentary drink. Additional drinks can be purchased at our bar. Teams are limited to 6 people, ages 21+ only. Each trivia night will have a different theme, ranging from literature to horror to 1990s. There will be weekly prizes for the winning team as well as a grand prize for the team that wins the most points over the entire summer.
11TH 7th Annual Well Ray Festival 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission: Free Mount Vernon Ave. and the Mount Vernon Recreational Center wellraydelray.com The Del Ray Business Association will host its 7th Annual Well Ray Festival on Saturday, June 11 in the heart of Del Ray from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event will include more than 100 health and lifestyle-inspired vendors offering demos and sample treatments such as health screens, massages, acupuncture, physical therapy, nutritional assessments, and reiki energy treatments.
Old Town Crier
Discovering Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour with Carlyle House 10 to 11:30 a.m. Admission: $20 per person Carlyle House 121 N. Fairfax Street 703-549-2997 novaparks.com/parks/carlylehouse-historic-park Alexandria has grown from a small town in the 18th century to a bustling small city in the 21st century. Join Carlyle House for a tour of Alexandria, exploring the various architectural styles that adorn the city streets and make it one of the best places to live and work. Reservations are required as space is limited. All COVID-19 procedures will be in place during this tour. Please wear comfortable shoes for this one and a half-hour guided tour. Tour is held rain or shine unless there is severe weather.
Beyond the Battlefield: A Walking Tour of Civil War Alexandria 9 a.m. Admission: $15 per person Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria, VA 22314 703-548-1789 leefendallhouse.org This walking tour shares the stories of soldiers, citizens and self-liberated African Americans in Civil War Alexandria, covering the military occupation, the conversion of public and private buildings into hospitals, and emancipation.
18TH Workshops on the Waterfront 1 to 3 p.m. Admission: Free Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N Union Street 703-746-4570 torpedofactory.org Enjoy a free workshop or live demo with a Torpedo Factory Art Center artist at the Waterfront entrance of the Art Center. There will be a different project every third Saturday of the month through October.
19TH Juneteenth at the Torpedo Factory Art Center 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission: Free Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N Union Street 703-746-4570 torpedofactory.org America’s second Independence Day is a time to celebrate, reflect, and learn about the end of slavery in the United States. It’s a celebration of freedom, and also an opportunity to deepen our awareness of the nation’s legacy of systemic racism and oppression. Join artists at the Art Center for a shared community space in the Grand Hall to create artistic messages with your loved ones.
Junior Docents at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
GOSSYPIA
Sundays from June 19 to Sept. 4 Admission: $5 per adult; $3 per child (ages 5 to 12) and free for city residents Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal Street alexandriava.gov/GadsbysTavern Gadsby’s Tavern Museum’s Junior Docent Program is back with an exciting new offering this summer thanks to American Heritage Chocolate! Every Sunday, June 19 through Labor Day weekend, from 2 to 5 p.m. guests can meet Junior Docents (grades 4 and older) who will be stationed throughout the tavern. They will be sharing the history of the early America and the tavern, but also the history of chocolate, including a hands-on demonstration of historic chocolate-making in the ballroom.
25TH The Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair 3 to 8 p.m. Admission: Free Market Square 300 King Street volunteeralexandria.org/arts-andcrafts-festival Volunteer Alexandria is thrilled to implement the popular Old Town Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday, June 25th at Market Square featuring local and regional artists and crafters who showcase their pieces across various mediums, including pottery, stationery, fabrics, paintings, jewelry, photography
An eclectic shop specializing in clothing, jewelry & Latin American art as well as special occasion & wedding dresses.
GOSSYPIA 325 Cameron Street • Old Town
703-836-6969 www.Gossypia.com
16TH Old Town Art Walk 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: Free Various locations in Old Town oldtownbusiness.org Enjoy a self-guided tour of Old Town Alexandria and explore the fine art and studio crafts found in art galleries and boutique shops on the third Thursday of each month, May to October. The stroll is a great activity after an early dinner, or before enjoying a meal at one of Old Town Alexandria’s restaurants. The Old Town Art Walk is presented by the Old Town Business Association.
Authentic Creole, Cajun and Seafood Specialties Since 1985
Music at the Market at Old Town North 6 to 7 p.m. Admission: Free Montgomery Park 901 N Royal Street oldtownnorth.org The Old Town North Community Partnership, with support from NOTICe, The Old Town North Alliance and local businesses and residents, present Music at the Market on the third Thursday of the month throughout the summer. Head to the Old Town North Farmer’s and Artisans Market to browse, pick up a bite and picnic in the park while soaking in great live music. Rain date are June 23rd. 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. | Alexandria, VA 22305 | (703) 684-6010 | rtsrestaurant.net
“Top 50 Southern Restaurants in the Country”—Forbes Magazine
and more.
June 2022 5
BUSINESS PROFILE
LANI GERING
Mural: A Visual Art Form By definition, according to our pals at Wikipedia, a mural is “any piece of graphic artwork that is painted or applied directly to a wall, ceiling or other permanent substrate. Mural techniques include fresco, mosaic, graffiti and marouflage.” As you can see, we are stepping outside of the box, as we are want to do on occasion, and taking a different path with the Business Profile this month. I have always loved the whole concept of
Caption here please 6 June 2022
murals on otherwise boring buildings; especially on those structures that are in somewhat of a state of disrepair, however, the murals printed here are on very viable businesses located in the Del Ray section of Alexandria. There are others around our fair city that are not. The first local mural that I remember seeing in our area was on the side of the former King Street Blue’s Restaurant in Old Town Alexandria. It has
since been painted over but another original is still hanging in there on the side of the Walgreen’s on Mount Vernon Avenue. I lived in Del Ray at the time - I believe it was at least 25 years ago (maybe longer) – when the building housed a fantastic antique and collectible store. Since that time, murals have popped up all over Del Ray as well as in Old Town. All that being said, the intent of this piece is to encourage you all to take a drive, bike or walk around our fair city and not only check out these amazing works of art, but maybe think about patronizing those businesses that provide the canvas for them. There is only so much room for images in this space so we want to give you some more incentive to go on a mural search. We will be conducting a monthly contest on our Facebook and Instagram pages beginning June 1st. An image of a “portion” of a local mural will be posted with an obscure hint and the first person to respond correctly to the post will receive a $50 gift certificate to a local dining establishment of our choice. In order to participate, you will have to like and follow us – Facebook @ oldtowncrier Instagram @otcregionalmag. We will contact the winner each month via personal message to arrange for prize delivery. From the Publisher: The inspiration for this piece came from a friend of the Old Town Crier and exceptional amateur photographer, Lee Moody. Her photos have appeared in other Alexandria based publications as well as local Facebook and Instagram pages. Lee has an incredible eye for interesting takes on ordinary settings. She and her faithful black lab, Taylor, make their rounds almost daily snapping shots from sunrises to sunsets and all interesting things in between. Old Town Crier
FINANCIAL FOCUS
CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE
Wellness check: Are you staying fiscally fit? Understanding the current health of your finances starts with having a solid plan in place, but it depends on following the plan so you stay on track and continue working toward your financial goals. That’s where a financial wellness check can be useful. It can help you make sure you’re hitting the right milestones in your plan — and also help you check that your plan is working for you. Where to start? Here, John Knowles, lead strategy consultant of Retirement Solutions at Wells Fargo Advisors, shares six questions that can set up your financial wellness check.
Are you adding to your investment accounts on a regular schedule? Saving often and early is rule No. 1 because of the power of compounding. When you leave any investment gains in your account rather than taking them out, those gains have the opportunity to start earning returns as well. Taking full advantage of your employer’s retirement plan — typically a 401(k) — is a good place to start. That includes contributing enough to qualify for any potential company match, something Knowles stressed to his daughter when she entered the workforce. “If the company is going to match you up to 5%, put 5% in at least,” he says. Those nearing retirement may want to explore “catch up” contributions that allow you to add more to certain retirement accounts.
Are your estate planning documents up to date? Estate planning documents should include a will, health care power of attorney (POA), durable POA for financial matters, and a list of your accounts and their respective contacts and account access information. You might also consider including a net worth statement, life insurance policies, property deeds, and a list of assets for your children, such as a 529 account, a trust, or a Roth IRA for kids. Knowles says talking to loved ones is an essential part of estate planning. “Having those discussions, writing down your wishes, and then formalizing that through official documents is key,” he says.
Do you have an emergency fund? A good rule of thumb is to have six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency fund. You might need your emergency fund even when an event is covered by an insurance policy. “If a natural disaster such as a hurricane does significant property damage, it takes a while for the insurance money to kick in,” he says. “And it could take a while for your employer to reopen so you can resume working.”
Do you have a plan for paying for your child’s college education? If you’re thinking about paying for your child or grandchild’s college education, consider starting to save beginning the day they’re born, Knowles says. “Make college savings a part of your monthly budget just like your retirement savings,” he advises. 529 plans and other college savings vehicles are worth considering.
Are you being smart about taxes? With accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs, the money has the potential to grow tax-deferred. That means you pay taxes on the funds only when you withdraw during retirement. But with choices such as Roth IRAs or Roth 401(k) s, you pay taxes on the money at the start, but then don’t pay taxes when you take qualified withdrawals. (Other specialized accounts, such as Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts, may also provide tax advantages.) “It really boils down to not putting all your eggs in one tax basket,” he says. “Putting most of your wealth in tax-deferred savings accounts means when you withdraw your money, you may potentially incur a large tax bill. Diversification with taxes in mind may help reduce it.”
Are you getting advice from a professional advisor on a regular basis? Having a financial wellness checkup with a financial advisor and other professionals on topics such as taxes, estate planning, and insurance is like getting health input from a doctor, Knowles says. A financial advisor can evaluate your situation by taking measurements on a regular basis or whenever a significant life event happens, such as a job change, marriage, or divorce. This can help determine where you stand and what actions to consider. “Doctors don’t ask you what your blood pressure is, they find out,” he says. “Once they have all the data they need, they make a recommendation. In this case, it’s your financial advisor prescribing what can help improve your financial well-being after taking all the necessary measurements.” This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing Director-Investments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2022 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.
Investment and Insurance Products are: • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested Old Town Crier
Celebrating 40 years – 33 years on King Street
“Your imagination is my Horizon” GOLDWORKSUSA.COM
GOLDWORKSUSA
1400 King Street, Old Town Alexandria, VA 703-683-0333
OLD TOWN Mini-Mart
NOW OPEN! 822 King Street Old Town Alexandria, Virginia 703.549.7167 Open 5:00 am-Midnight June 2022 7
A BIT OF HISTORY | © SARAH BECKER
Nearly 100 years ago, it took the Democrats 103 ballots and 16 sweaty days to select a nominee.
The Wildest Convention in U.S. History The Democratic Convention of 1924
I
n 1924 Congress overrode President Calvin Coolidge’s veto of the WWI Soldiers Bonus Bill, and an anti-Asiatic Immigration law was passed. A constitutional amendment “to limit, regulate, and prohibit the labor of persons under eighteen years of age” was sent to the states for ratification. The country, “led by the South, [was] reluctant to circumscribe the work done by child labor.” 1924 was also a presidential election year. Four political parties participated. The Republican Party nominated Vice President Calvin Coolidge, President as of 1923 to serve another term. The Democrats chose New York attorney John W. Davis. It took the Dems a record 103 ballots to decide. Virginia’s 1924 Democratic Convention delegation included U.S. Senator Carter Glass; U.S. Senator Claude A. Swanson and State Senator Harry F. Byrd, Sr., Chairman of the
Alexandria’s own Dr. Kate Waller Barrett.
8 June 2022
1924 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION PRESIDENTIAL VOTE, 1ST BALLOT
1924 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION PRESIDENTIAL VOTE, 100TH BALLOT
Candidate
Candidate
Votes Percentage
William G. McAdoo 431.5
39.4%
Alfred E. Smith
22.0%
241
Votes Percentage
Alfred E. Smith
351.5
32.4%
John W. Davis
203.5
18.7%
190
17.5%
59
5.4%
William G. McAdoo
43.5
4.0%
Edwin T. Meredith
75.5
7.0%
Oscar W. Underwood 42.5
3.9%
Thomas J. Walsh
52.5
4.8%
George S. Silzer
38
3.5%
Joseph T. Robinson
46
4.2%
John W. Davis
31
2.8%
Oscar W. Underwood 41.5
3.8%
Samuel M. Ralston
30
2.7%
Carter Glass
35
3.2%
Woodbridge N. Ferris
30
2.7%
Josephus Daniels
24
2.2%
James M. Cox Pat Harrison
25
2.3%
Robert L. Owen
20
1.8%
22.5
2.1%
Albert C. Ritchie
17.5
1.6%
Joseph T. Robinson
21
1.9%
James W. Gerard
10
0.9%
Jonathan M. Davis
20
1.8%
David F. Houston
9
0.8%
Charles W. Bryan
18
1.6%
Willard Saulsbury
6
0.6%
2
0.2%
Carter Glass Albert C. Ritchie
Fred H. Brown
17
1.6%
Charles W. Bryan
William Ellery Sweet
12
1.1%
George L. Berry
1
0.1%
Newton D. Baker
1
0.1%
Willard Saulsbury
7
0.6%
John Kendrick
6
0.5%
Houston Thompson
1
0.1%
Virginia Democratic Party; Governor E. Lee Trinkle and former Governor Henry C. Stuart; Mrs. B.B. Mumford, Mrs. W.B. Sirman, and Alexandria’s Dr. Kate Waller Barrett. They were “to support Glass for the presidential nomination so as long as his name was before the body.” “Anyone who would not expect me to lead—to impress upon Congress my conception of important matters— need never to advocate me for this presidency,” Glass said in reply.
Representative Glass was instrumental in the passage of the 1913 Owen-Glass Federal Reserve Act: the formation of the central bank of the United States. “Four years ago [in 1920] Virginia furnished the platform for the [National] Democratic Party,” The Richmond-Times Dispatch reported. “This year it will, in all probability, go-a-step farther, providing both the platform and the candidate. The name Carter Glass is on the lips of every man or woman who discusses
nomination possibilities.” “It is admitted on all sides that, in point of ability and general fitness…no man in American public life is better qualified for the Presidency than Carter Glass,” The Washington Post agreed. “The single count against him is that he is from the South.” Born in 1858, in Lynchburg, Virginia, Carter Glass left school at age 13. Self-educated, he became a newspaper reporter cum owner. A conservative Democrat, Glass served in the U.S. House of Representatives [1902–18]; the U.S. Senate [19201946], and as President Woodrow Wilson’s Secretary of the Treasury [1918-1920]. In 1902 State Senator, soon to be U.S. Representative Glass was a white supremacist. According to the Encyclopedia Virginia “Glass’ bluntness was apparent during the [Commonwealth’s] Constitutional Convention of 1901-1902…He joined the ‘reformers,’ who wanted to revamp state government and eliminate the black vote.” “[T]he problem of the Twentieth Century is the problem of the color line,” W.E.B. DuBois, the first black American to earn a doctorate wrote in 1903. “This meaning is not without interest to you.” The 1924 National Democratic Party Platform, as drafted by U.S. Senator Glass, was accepted by the Virginia convention with only one change. The change was made in the Personal Freedom section, the section which reaffirmed Thomas Jefferson’s A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 9
Old Town Crier
A BIT OF HISTORY | FROM PAGE 8
declaration for religious freedom. The part “struck out” stated “that ‘any sect, or order, or creed, which assails or seeks openly or covertly to impair this inalienable right of religious freedom is to be condemned and resisted as a menace to organized society.’” “Twice in the past the [Ku Klux] Klan has risen when it had an issue— after the Civil War [1865] and World War,” The Washington Post explained. “By 1920 it was on the verge of bankruptcy and the Klan called in Edward Y. Clarke, of the Southern Advertising Association. Clarke’s genius for salesmanship…brought forth fruit.” “The [1924 National Democratic] Convention took place in an era when 3-6 million Americans were members of the Ku Klux Klan,” Matthew Wills penned. “Unlike the first, post-Civil War version: the Roaring Twenties Klan was middle class, with substantial clergy support, and had membership in all 48 states. Hundreds of Knights of the Ku Klux Klan attended the convention as delegates.” In 1923 the Klan “presented $100 for ‘the advance of the Christian Kingdom’ to [Alexandria’s] Washington Street Methodist Church.” The Convention, held in New York City from June 24 to July 9, 1924, was “the longest continuously running convention” in United States political history. It was the first major party convention to place a woman’s name—Mrs. LeRoy Springs, National Committeewoman from South Carolina—in nomination for vice president. That said, the offer was thought to be more symbolic than sincere. The woman’s suffrage amendment, Amendment 19 was ratified four years before. Sixteen presidential candidates were nominated for the Democratic Presidential nomination. Former Secretary of the Treasury William Gibbs McAdoo, Woodrow Wilson’s son-in-law, and New York Governor Alfred E. Smith were the top contenders. Carter Glass was presented as a compromise candidate. Nebraska Governor and presidential aspirant Charles W. Bryan, William Jennings Bryan’s brother was the VP nominee of choice. “Following the national elections of 1912 the Democrats obtained control of the federal government [both the executive and legislative branches] for the first time in half a century,” Dewey Grantham wrote. “When the chairmen of the congressional committees were appointed in 1913, Southerners were in complete control.” Five of the twelve congressmen from the Old Dominion were chairmen of major committees. Carter Glass presided over the House Banking and Currency Committee, while Thomas Staples Martin, creator of Virginia’s Old Town Crier
Franklin D. Roosevelt placing Al Smith's name into nomination conservative Democratic machine, chaired the Senate Appropriations Committee. Oklahoma Senator Robert L. Owen, Jr., a progressive Democrat born in Lynchburg, Virginia, chaired the Senate Banking Committee. Owen was of Cherokee descent; a tribal nation known to enslave 19th century blacks. President Woodrow Wilson’s New Freedom agenda stressed individualism and states’ rights. It promised “to restore unfettered opportunity for individual action and to employ the power of government in behalf of social justice for all.” In the Wilson era social justice referred mostly to the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society: the point at which individuality gave way to the struggle for social justice. Wilson did not deal well with matters of gender, ethnicity, or racial discrimination. It was Virginia born President Wilson who, in 1913 in his first Presidential year, segregated the Civil Service of the United States. He issued no executive order; Congress passed no law. Wilson’s Postmaster General, former Congressman Albert S. Burleson (D-TX) just complained. The result: black Civil Service workers were displaced or fired. Dining facilities and restrooms were segregated all while Wilson’s southernborn Cabinet Secretaries, Glass included, looked the other way. It was not long before Reconstruction gains became Jim Crow losses. Charles Hamilton Houston, a black instructor at Howard University, enlisted in America’s segregated Army in 1917. Lt. Houston served in war torn Europe. His military experience left him hankering for social change; to “study law and use my time fighting for men who could not strike back.” Houston entered Harvard Law School in 1919; was admitted to the bar in 1924, and became the NAACP’s first General Counsel in 1935. The 1924 National Democratic Party
platform included many appealing phrases like: “Education: We believe… that ignorance is the enemy of freedom and that each state, being responsible for the intellectual and moral qualification of its citizens… shall use its sovereign fight in all matters pertaining to education.” And “Democratic Principles: The Democratic Party believes in equal rights to all and special privilege to none.” In fact the Party believed in equality as moderated by the “Rights of States: We demand that the states of the union shall be preserved in all their vigor and power. They constitute a bulwark against…destructive tendencies.” As for the “Activities of Women: We welcome the women of the nation to their rightful place by the side of men in control of government whose burdens they have always shared.” The Virginia General Assembly voted against ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920. Two years later the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the ratification process was not subject to state imposed restrictions and declared the woman’s suffrage amendment constitutional. [Leser v. Garnett 258US130 (1922)] Soon after, Dr. Kate Waller Barrett—vice president and general superintendent of the Florence Crittenton Homes—was elected second vice president of the Virginia League of Women Voters. Under her and others leadership the League “endorsed the direct primary” and recommended “suppression of clandestine agencies and associations, like the Ku Klux Klan.” Barrett—born in 1857 on her father’s slave-inhabited Falmouth, Virginia, estate—fought for women’s rights. It was in the 19-teens and ‘20s that Dr. Barrett gained a national reputation for “helping with racially diverse populations of women.” Who better than Kate, a humanitarian and early voting rights advocate to second Carter Glass’ nomination for
president? “I tell you Folks,” humorist Will Rogers said, “All Politics is Apple Sauce!” “The Pulitzer prize for unstinted praise must be awarded to Gov. Trinkle of Virginia, who said of Carter Glass that, ‘no man can point the finger of scorn at him except with pride,’” The New York Times reported on June 28, 1924. “Then there was Mrs. Barrett…who seconded Glass with such fire and enthusiasm that she almost warmed up somnolent delegates.” “We love Carter Glass,” Dr. Barrett began, “but we would not sully Virginia’s reputation and present his name to you unless we knew that he would measure up to the past history of Virginia…to Washington, to Jefferson, to Madison and to Monroe.” The song “Dixie played” and abolitionist “John Brown was reburied in the sacred soil of Virginia.” Calvin Coolidge won the 1924 presidential election, 382 electoral votes to Davis’ 136. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, let me know what similarities if any come to mind. The key words moving forward: equal rights, states’ rights and the new industrial state; individualism, systems and centralization. Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association Board. Her interest in antiquities began as a World Bank hire, with Indonesia’s need to generate hard currency. Balinese history, i.e. tourism provided the means. The New York Times describes Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email abitofhistory53@gmail.com. June 2022 9
URBAN GARDEN
MELINDA MYERS
Take It Up a Notch Out Back Adding Appeal to your Patio or Deck Summer means time spent gardening and relaxing with friends. And just like the kitchen in winter, the patio or deck tends to be the gathering spot when the weather turns warm. Get the most from this space with a bit of preseason planning and decorating. Select functional and beautiful furnishings to create a special spot for you, family and friends to enjoy whenever the weather allows. First, sketch out the space and measure the dimensions of all furnishings you are considering, making sure they will fit. Allow extra space for people to pull chairs in and out from the table and navigate around furnishings, preferably 3 to 4 feet. Next, select a table that fits the space and provides ample serving space. An extension table allows you to expand your surface if a few more folks drop by. A round folding table provides space for guests, and it can be stashed against the wall when workspace is needed. Small and large-space gardeners will enjoy the benefits of elevated gardens with built-in trellises. These maximize growing space even on a small deck or patio and bring the garden to the party. Look for self-watering planters and especially those with wheels so you can easily move them out of the way of a family gathering or closer to the kitchen for easy harvesting. Include a multifunctional piece like a potting bench. Look for a versatile and well-built, furniture-quality piece like that complements other furnishings and can be used as a serving surface when entertaining. Consider features like a faucet for washing and watering that drains into a bucket or the ground, as well as hooks for hanging tools and baskets and space for storage. Bring nature to your door and mask unwanted background noise with the soothing sound of water. Wall-mounted and container fountains add the sound and motion of water to even the smallest patios and decks. Watch for colorful winged visitors stopping by for a sip. Extend your enjoyment into the evening with pleasing outdoor lighting. Make sure the light is deflected and not shining directly into visitors’ eyes. Downward facing overhead lights brighten large areas. Use them to illuminate key spaces such 10 June 2022
Photo b y Taryn Elliott
Raised beds and multipurpose potting benches can add both beauty and functionality to your patio or deck.
Whatever the size of your patio or deck you can create an inviting outdoor space for gardening and entertaining. as those used for cooking. Strands of lights on structures, ribs of an umbrella or the underside of a bar provide a festive touch. Use tabletop lighting to create a more intimate mood. Outdoor flameless candles add warmth to your space while a Columbine Solar Lantern adds charm. Look for a style that complements your outdoor décor. Add pathway lighting to direct guests to the patio or on a stroll through the garden. Solar lighting allows flexibility and eliminates the need for trenching wires to a power source. Think beyond
traditional pathway and railing lighting. Strategically placed upward lighting of structures and plants or downward lighting hung from above can also provide needed illumination. Whatever the size of your patio or deck you can create an inviting outdoor space for gardening and entertaining. Just invest a bit of time planning and shopping for attractive and functional furnishings. Then sit back and relax in your newly decorated space. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardener’s Supply for her expertise to write this article. Myers’s web site is www.melindamyers. com. Old Town Crier
HIGH NOTES
RON POWERS
“Wait 4” by “Kygo, a” I’ve been following the artist known as “Kygo, a” for several years now. Not only am I struck by the high quality of her artistic expression, but “Kygo, a” seems to be expanding the creative boundaries of music itself with each new release. Her latest single “Wait 4” is a spectacular example of the boundaryexpanding quality of her music. “Kygo, a” appears to be generating a new genre of music melding classical orchestration and EDM rhythmic elements that tap into our primal urge to move and dance. There’s a sophisticated intelligence in the music and yet at the same time, there’s something very approachable and instinctual running through every note. “Wait 4” begins with the smooth thump of a kick drum tuned to the key of the song along with a focused and slightly ambient synth sound. As the song gears up we hear double note staccato horn blasts mixed with 007 like string trills. Next, “Kygo, a” establishes a groove that is composed of quarter notes from the string section and a pleasant melody delivered by a mixture of synth sounds. This mixture of synth sounds generates a completely original sonic value with a plucking effect that sounds fresh and original. For the next movement of the song, things pick up further when some classic synthesizer sounds are introduced. These synthesizers deliver a quick-paced melody and mix well with the energy-packed hi-hat rhythm and somewhat mysterioussounding xylophone notes. We also hear a bumping bass line bopping around this section. I had the pleasure of listening to this song on a “Bang & Olufsen” sound system and it’s absolutely jaw-dropping how much power “Kygo, a” has packed into the bass frequencies of “Wait 4”. If you have access to highquality speakers, please listen to “Wait 4” on them. I promise you’ll enjoy it. As I was digging into the details for “Wait 4”, I was surprised to learn that the songwriter is listed as GH Hat who is another artist I’ve been following for years. This was an intriguing surprise and has deepened the mystery of both “Kygo, a” and GH Hat for me. Both musicians have elements of classical music in their recordings and both have great EDM and pop sensibility. Is GH Hat pioneering the creation of a whole new genre of electronic dance music through multiple artists? Classical EDM? Or “Orchestrated EDM”? There are close to twenty instruments used in this song. Intriguing concept, and it works. As one of “Wait 4’s” Soundcloud commentors pointed out: “There’s so much going on you don’t need to rely on a driven beat.” EDM’s usual clap-clap is not needed, which in itself is very intriguing. How deep does this mystery go? Might there be other artists Old Town Crier
that GH Hat is creating through? One thing is for sure, there is a creative force at work that has many of us paying attention and excited for what is to come. As the title implies, “Wait 4” is the fourth installment in “Kygo, a’s” Wait series and, for me, marks a high point for her music in general. “Kygo, a’s” use of melodic instruments to create intricate rhythms along with multiple layers of instrumentation keeps my attention in ways very few artists can. “Wait 4” is a song
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I can’t recommend enough and if you’d like to hear it you can find it on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and most other places music is streamed or sold. If you’d like to learn more about “Kygo, a”, you can find her on Twitter, and Facebook. About the Author: Ron Powers is an independent A&R specialist and music industry consultant and is constantly searching for, discovering and writing about new talent.
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June 2022 11
THE LAST WORD
s an actress Selma Blair emerged in the early 1990s in such films as Cruel Intentions, a modernized version of the novel Dangerous Liaisons, and as the dark counterpoint to the sprightly character played by Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde. An actress who always had the intensity and quirkiness of an art-film star, she embodies the antithesis of the all-American girl. Friends with Karl Lagerfeld and hip New York figures such as Ingrid Sischy of Interview magazine, she also served as the face of Chanel. Her recent released memoir, Mean Baby, attracted my attention because of her unusual literary artistry and thoughtfulness, history in Hollywood, and multiple life struggles that continue despite her victories. Her retelling becomes gradually richer and more complex over the span of her memoir. For a Hollywoodrelated autobiography, this work is atypical and completely absorbing on an intellectual and emotional level. Not primarily a gossipy recount of film adventures, this memoir still includes enough Hollywood for all of us who enjoy escapades. It is mostly an exploration of self, of the challenges that come our way as human beings, and the maturation, joy, and love that can develop in an individual personality and soul despite the combined hardships of abuse, depression, alcoholism, and chronic illness. While this memoir shares Selma’s turmoil and angst, readers should not put it aside as a potential downer. Her appeal lies in her vulnerability, sensitivity, and genuine insights. Blair’s memoir title comes from the way to which she was referred as a newborn. With her facial expressions, her neighbors jokingly called her a “mean baby”— whose disconsolate, surly expression defined her from day one. Referred to by her family only as Baby Beitner, and then casually as Blair Beitner, she was not formally named until she was three years old and had to be certified for pre-school. Finally the name Selma, from a deceased old family friend, was grafted on to her
MIRIAM R. KRAMER
shoulders. This experience began her ambivalence about her identity at an early age. Blair became one personality, and Selma was often another. Selma started drinking from time to time at age 7 to relieve her depression and anxiety, becoming a full-fledged, if mostly functioning alcoholic as she grew older. Since her mother liked her children better when they were well-dressed and thin, she also developed an eating disorder that she only recognized in her forties. It seems evident from her writings that her mother had distinct family rules and often told her what image she was supposed to portray, along with her three sisters. Her upbringing was emotionally dysfunctional, as her rigid, distant mother enjoyed assigning her
daughters designated roles within the family. Selma was assigned the role of being depressed, neurotic, and tough. That being said, she loved her temperamental, narcissistic mother dearly, developing an odd, intense relationship in which she saw her as a role model she could never fully emulate. In growing up, she created a shell around herself, keeping her pain and secrets inside. With a mother who never wanted to hear about illness from the daughter she deemed resilient, Selma hid the shooting pains she sometimes felt in her arms and other symptoms. Later she and her doctors would view them as a possible sign of juvenile multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition, she had an absentee, ineffectual father, growing up with a housekeeper in a middle-class household where both of her parents worked long hours. Her artistic, sensitive nature flourished at Cranbrook Kingswood, a golden-hued prep school like the one in the movie Dead Poets Society, where she made lifelong friends. Selma finally felt nourished intellectually after having gone to Hillel in grade and junior high school, which focused on religion and required less academic prowess. Flunking out, she was readmitted to school after fighting to get back in. There she suffered her first sexual abuse, when the Dean, whom she loved as a father figure for his intellect, warmth, and helpfulness, kissed her and put his hand down her pants
Mean Baby by Selma Blair 320 pages, hardcover Published May 17, 2022 The first story Selma Blair Beitner ever heard about herself is that she was a mean, mean baby. With her mouth pulled in a perpetual snarl and a head so furry it had to be rubbed to make way for her forehead, Selma spent years living up to her terrible reputation: biting her sisters, lying spontaneously, getting drunk from Passover wine at the age of seven, and behaving dramatically so that she would be the center of attention. when she was a ninth grader. Knowing that she would not be believed, and caring about him deeply as well, she did her best to avoid being with him alone. Yet her sense of vulnerability, poor self-esteem, and insecurity grew out of feelings of helplessness. Her experience marked her again as someone who wanted to escape into literature and other studies, and strengthened her tendencies to explore multiple identities. After finishing this volume, I wondered why Selma never directly describes her love of the craft of acting or how she learned to prepare roles. Perhaps it has just been her nature and how she was nurtured. She often refers to others’ opinions of and praise of her, and less so her faith in her own abilities. In Selma’s young days auditioning in New York and elsewhere, she sometimes got black out drunk and was raped. At least twice she took too many pills THE LAST WORD > PAGE 13
12 June 2022
Old Town Crier
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as an ineffectual suicidal gesture. Other days she enjoyed her life as a celebrity and met fascinating artists and entertainers she came to adore. It is debatable whether she selfmedicated for her slowly growing MS or to buoy up her fragile sense of self and rid herself of depression. Along the way she describes her off-beat romantic relationships with entertainers like Ahmet Zappa and Jason Schwartzman, along with others. Her warm description of the film friends she met along the way, including Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Guillermo del Toro, reveals her as a loving figure who values her network of friends from her school days onward. As a quirky, intelligent woman, she met and immediately loved Carrie Fisher, a similar soul whose wit, kindness, and love made her feel at home. Those who have read her books know that Carrie Fisher was a hilarious writer, despite and in part because of her deep bouts of depression and bipolarity. As a devotee of Carrie, who loved her many good friends wholeheartedly, I was charmed further. I also felt that anyone who devoted herself to studying Anne Frank as a child and avidly praised the works of brilliant writer Joan Didion was a kindred spirit. Selma eventually took on the roles of reading the Diary of Anne Frank as an audible book, one of her favorite accomplishments. As time went on, Selma could no longer use alcohol as a coping mechanism. After having a son, Arthur, with her then-partner, designer Jason Bleick, she stopped imbibing to devote herself to her son’s welfare. After she drank once more on a plane, she woke up in the hospital the next day. Then she went to Alcoholics Anonymous, promising herself not to drink again to avoid affecting others and her son. Simultaneously, with her physical faculties getting weaker, she consulted a doctor. Finally she discovered that she had MS, which had started to overcome her life. Old Town Crier
Most recently she has become an advocate to cure MS, even taking center stage in a harrowing documentary: Introducing, Selma Blair. In it she gives an unembellished, raw look at taking on treatments to get better for her son. After revealing her diagnosis on social media, Selma has taken many risks to slow the disease’s progression. Sadly, this development, which derailed her life, had been misdiagnosed for years by doctors and others who believed it was all in her head. Selma’s book proves introspective, compelling, and a very well-written, easy read. I recommend it for its literary merit and her mature, multifaceted world view. Portraying herself in a raw, unvarnished light, she almost begs to be seen, finally, as her real self, but not in a pathetic way. Her courage and determination prevent her from being any sort of a victim as she pours out her joys and trials, in the hopes of helping those who might identify and learn from her challenges. Selma ends her memoir with a letter to her son, saying “I hope you’ll experience real joy. That you’ll choose kindness over any alternative. That you’ll surround yourself with people who see you for who you are. That you won’t feel trapped, as I did. That you’ll see people who might otherwise be invisible to the world. People who are broken, lonely, or sick. People who need someone to root for them.” In this book she advocates not only for her son, but also for those readers suffering abuse, depression, alcoholism, and disabilities of various kinds. She advocates for herself, exposing herself to the world in a relatable way, helping to dissolve the stigma attached to the hardships she has endured despite her seeming privilege. In fact, she is the opposite of celebrities on Instagram with seemingly perfect lives, those selling curated images that encourage unrealistic aspirations, jealousy, and dissatisfaction. Pick up Mean Baby if you actually want to read a beautifully written work about an adult with much wisdom to share and as much to learn as the rest of us.
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June 2022 13
GALLERY BEAT
F. LENNOX CAMPELLO
Summer
Khánh H. Lê, United, c. 2013-14. Mixed media. Courtesy of the artist.
F. Lennox Campello, Isla Balsera (Happy Bicentennial America - Wishing We Were There), 1976. Collage, 26 x 34 in. Gift from The Andres M. Fernandez Collection, 2018.17.1.
EXHIBITS ABOUND
The summer is essentially here and so are some great shows opening around the DMV. Over In Rockville’s Artists & Makers Studios you’ll see the work of Robert LeMar titled “Crossing the Line”, the Resident Artist exhibit “10x10” and the Artists of Gallery 209 for the month of June as well as building-wide Open Studios. The June 4th opening will run from 11am – 3pm at Artists & Makers Studios, 11810 Parklawn Drive, Suite 210 in Rockville, MD. They tell me that “LeMar’s interest in line has always been prevalent in his work. Three years of portrait sketching on the beaches of Chicago when he was a preteen developed his affinity to line. This was further bolstered by sketching portraits on the boardwalk of Ocean City Maryland in his twenties. Even though he was later encouraged by his art professors at The Maryland School of Art and Design in Silver Spring to not rely on drawing when painting, he still persisted in drawing on the canvas before applying paint. To this day drawing remains a major element in his painting technique. In his recent abstract work, as he crosses the line between realism and abstraction, he gives line an obviously dominant and defining role.” Over at the Kreeger Museum, Hamiltonian Artists and The Kreeger Museum presents “Unexpected Occurrences”, which is described as “a contemporary response to a modern collection”, and which features the work of Hamiltonian Artists’ seven current fellows—Amber Eve Anderson, Maria Luz Bravo, Jason Bulluck, Joey Enriquez, Stephanie Garon, Madeline Stratton, and Lionel Frazier White III. The exhibition includes new works in video, mixed media, sculpture, photography, encaustic, printmaking, and painting installed throughout the museum. Described as “unconventional pairings of old and new works, the exhibition challenges the viewer to consider the nuances of medium and subject and how they shift over time. Using sculpture and encaustic, Bulluck explores the meaning of databases, from a Buddhist and Marxist framework, to consider the human contribution to systems through interaction. Enriquez and Garon both use raw material to comment on labor, land, and their connections to society. Stratton’s series of new paintings consider the specific shapes and shadows from the Kreeger terrace and color from the Claude Monet paintings in the collection. Bravo 14 June 2022
Jason Horowitz, El Rancho Motel No. 2, South Fourth Avenue, Yuma, Arizona, 2018, archival inkjet prints, courtesy the artist.
Helen Zughaib, US Capitol Building, 1990. Archival pigment print, 28 x 38 in. Courtesy of the artist.
and Anderson utilize new technologies to capture movement and time through photography. White memorializes Black experiences through mixed media assemblage specifically referencing family legacy and spirituality.” Fellowship Director Tomora Wright states, “We are so pleased to be partnering with the Kreeger on this impactful initiative. I, along with the seven artists, were exhilarated by the opportunity to show alongside the important modern works in the museum’s collection. We want visitors to draw connections between, find unexpected occurrences, and consider differences in focus and subject of the
work then and now.” “The Collaborative furthers our mission by supporting and spotlighting the immense talent of visual and performing artists in our city,” adds Helen Chason, director of The Kreeger Museum. “We are thrilled to be in partnership with Hamiltonian Artists to present work of the Hamiltonian Fellows. We are honored to champion the work of these artists and provide many of them the opportunity to present their work in a museum for the first time.” The show runs through August 27, 2022. Lastly, summer exhibitions will open Jun. 11 in the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center and be on display through Aug. 7. Real openings! The shows start with “The Quest for Tranquil Space: Paintings and Photograms” which marks Czech Republic artist Josef Achrer’s U.S. debut. “The Bridge that Carried Us Over” explores the mechanisms by which the transfer of intergenerational wealth, land, and historical memory have been denied to the African diaspora in the United States. “Caribbean Transitions” explores the character, complexity, and originality of art by Caribbean American artists as they expand the art of the North American continent. It features the work of 20 artists who are painters, printmakers, photographers, video GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 15
Old Town Crier
Exclusively representing the works of
GALLERY BEAT | FROM PAGE 14
makers, and installation and performance artists. “Mokha Laget: Perceptualism” features over 40 paintings, sculpture, drawings, and lithographs and surveys the last 10 years of an artistic practice devoted to exploring perception and space and documents the ways in which female-identifying artists have contributed to abstraction. “Vertiginous Matter: Jason Horowitz” is an investigation of materialism, scale, and perception as shown through the artist’s lens and artistic process. Utilizing modern technology, Horowitz’s images are both “arresting in their scale and magnitude and yet intricate in their detail and delicacy.” Curated by Jennifer Sakai and presented by the Alper Initiative for Washington Art. “Home-Land: Exploring the American Myth” considers the museum’s proximity to the location of the Department of Homeland Security’s Nebraska Avenue Complex as it explores of the impact of American culture on its citizens both naturalized and native. The curators add that “using American iconography, consumer and visual culture, and personal experience, the featured eight Washington area artists simultaneously honor and confront the American dream. Artists reveal that home is not a privilege for all - for some it is taken, for others it is to be fought for and defended, and, for many artists in the show, it is reforged in a new land. This exhibition, curated by Michael Quituisaca and Alexandra Schuman, highlights how these artists have found their place within multiple frameworks of identity, both ascribed and subscribed.”
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June 2022 15
TAKE PHOTOS, LEAVE FOOTPRINTS
SCOTT DICKEN
Photos by Scott Dicken
DUBAI ON A SHOESTRING: Ten Ways to Avoid Imminent Budget Bankruptcy in the City of Gold Dubai isn’t cheap! In fact, never have I been to a place where the cost of a very average meal made my eyes water quite so much. And yet Dubai remains a go-to spot for so many tourists. With that in mind, what’s the secret for remaining on budget in a place where you could quite easily spend a years’ salary over the course of a long weekend? That’s what this article aims to explore with ten easy ways to avoid imminent bankruptcy in UAE’s city of gold! CHEAP EATS: It’s always tempting to google the ‘best’ restaurants in a city and to start making your way through them when you arrive. In Dubai that will only serve to leave gaping holes in both pockets. The top restaurants in Dubai are predominantly located in and around the major hotels and have eye watering price tags for even the simplest of meals. Instead, seek out cheaper eats in Old Dubai or on 2nd December Street in Satwa. You can feast on any type of cuisine 16 June 2022
that your heart desires in either of those locales at much more reasonable price points. SAVOR THE SOUKS: There’s nothing wrong with a bit of window shopping in the big fancy malls, but even if you’re from a relatively expensive destination you aren’t going to grab a bargain in any of them. Instead, spend some time in the souks of old Duabi where you can haggle for better prices for those much-needed souvenirs and gifts. RIDE THE RAILS: Whilst it’s all too tempting to jump in a taxi (which you’d be forgiven for in the heat of the summer) those costs can soon rack up. Thankfully, Dubai has a comprehensive, cheap, and air-conditioned public transport system including buses, metro, water buses, and a tram system. Check out the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority website for full timetables and destinations. LEAVE FOOTPRINTS > PAGE 17
Old Town Crier
LEAVE FOOTPRINTS | FROM PAGE 16
DO YOUR RESEARCH: Dubai has an abundance of resources that will help you save money. If you’re looking for cheaper digs than a pricey hotel then Airbnb operates in Dubai. If you’re looking for cut price deals on food, drink, or entertainment then both Timeout and Groupon will come in handy. Do your research before you leave and purchase cut prices deals on Groupon when you see them, and your budget will just about stay on track when you arrive (admittedly at the cost of some spontaneity). FIND THE CHEAP ATTRACTIONS: Undoubtedly there are a whole host of expensive activities for you to try your hand at in Dubai; you could scale the Burj Khalifa, go indoor skiing, or partake in a luxury dinner in the desert. But it’s not all budget-busting activities! The Dubai Museum, the Heritage Center, Jumeriah Mosque and the Dancing Fountain Show at Burj Khalifa are all well worth seeing and will secure a full day of sightseeing on a shoestring budget. HAPPY HOUR HAPPINESS: Happy Hours are a big deal in Dubai, probably because ‘regular hour’ drinks are so expensive! The good news is that Happy Hours can provide some absolute ‘bargains’ if you’re intent on partaking in liquid refreshment. Again, I’d turn your attention to Timeout Dubai, who have a dedicated Happy Hour Page. BARGAIN BRUNCHES: Even bigger than Happy Hour is the brunch scene in Dubai. Now, I’m not going to lie, these brunches (which typically operate on a Friday) aren’t necessarily cheap; but they offer good value. Essentially you just have to be prepared to park down for a few hours and gorge on the allyou-can-eat (and in some places all-you-can-drink) offerings. If you don’t have the stamina, or don’t want to spend all of your time in a state of drunken debauchery (which some seem to head towards later in the day) then this probably isn’t the best option for you. ABRA – CADABRA: If you’re looking for a slice of local life at a bargain price then looks no further than the abras (a traditional wooden boat) which ferry locals across Dubai Creek. Abras travel between the water station at Shindagha/Al Ghubaiba on the Bur Dubai side of the creek, and the water station at Al Sabkha on the Deira side. The abras depart every few minutes. At the bargain price 1 dirham there probably isn’t a more budget friendly activity to be found anywhere in Dubai. SOAK UP THE SUN: Dubai has an abundance of private beachfront property. The bad news is that because it’s private there are whole stretches of beach that you won’t be able to visit. The good news is that there are a number of free beaches that you can use instead. For iconic views check out the free beach next to the Burj Al Arab. Alternatively, you could check out Kitesurfing Beach, Bu Qtair Beach or the 4x4 Beach. Out with the New and In with the Old: I’m a fan of Old Dubai. The good news for fans of culture, and those looking for a more authentic slice of the Middle East, is that Old Dubai is also by far the cheapest part of town. Spend more time here than in new Dubai and you’ll be bound to save those hard-earned Dirhams. If you’re looking more tips and tricks for a visit to Dubai, be sure to check out TakePhotosLeaveFootprints.com! Old Town Crier
June 2022 17
POINTS ON PETS
ALBERTA FROST
Here Kitty, Kitty… June is Adopt a Cat Month! June is a month with many commemorations ranging from Flag Day to National Flip Flop Day. Two of the most notable are Father’s Day and Adopt a Cat Month. I pair these two recognitions because when I was about three my father got me my first cat. This creature was a tiny puff of black fur that my Dad brought home in his pocket. It must have been a winter day because one of the first pictures I have of Fluffy (original name, right?) is of this little face peeking out from halfway up our Christmas tree. I don’t remember what instructions my parents gave me about handling this little dynamo or if I was given any responsibility for his care, but I do remember the intense feeling of companionship I carried with me as my family and Fluffy moved from place to place over the next few years. Long after he was gone, he engendered in me a devotion to animals, especially cats. Admittedly, I am biased regarding whether families with young children should adopt a pet – or more specifically, a cat, and there is lots of research that supports my experience. According to Catnip (Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine), pets make all of us – from the youngest to the most senior – healthier in mind and body. Children living with pets not only learn a sense of responsibility, but they also develop stronger, healthier immune 18 June 2022
systems. Other sources suggests that pets contribute to the development of compassion, language skills and a feeling of competence. In an article published in Practical Parenting, Dr. Jo Righetti identifies several benefits from cat ownership. Among them: cats help children nurture and learn respect and patience; and cats are quiet listeners and give unconditional acceptance. A benefit to both parents and kids, cats are easier to care for than many other species. Even though there are benefits to pet/cat ownership, there are still many factors to consider before adopting, including the lifestyle of your family and the age and temperament of your children. This assessment then leads to the age and temperament of the cat you should be looking for. Most experts agree that young families may not be the best match for kittens (or puppies). Kittens are fragile and they have not yet learned their manners. Their little teeth and claws can be quite sharp, and they still view the world as one big chew toy. Plus, they require more work. According to the Humane Society, puppies and kittens under 6 months are best matched with families where the youngest child is at least 7 years old. A one or two-year old cat is still playful, but it is beyond the baby stage and its personality may be more evident.
Even if your children are older and have been promising to take care of whatever cat you adopt, parents should also realize that most of the care will fall on them. Kids should be given caregiving tasks, but young children should not be cleaning the kitty litter or be totally responsible for your pet’s food and water. So, if you do decide to adopt, how do you pick the best cat for your family? First, think about your children’s current capabilities. Second, listen to the adoption counselors at the shelter or rescue group where you plan to adopt. If it is a competent rescue, they will ask you questions about yourself and your kids. Don’t think of this as intrusive but rather as trying to help identify the best cat for you. In addition, some questions you can ask them are: Where did this cat come from? Does this cat get along with people? Has the cat ever been around kids? Does the cat ever exhibit any signs of aggression or fear? Especially, if you have young children, what you want is a cat that is friendly, calm and likes to be petted -- but not necessarily picked up. I have met many potential adopters who ask for a cat they can immediately pick up and cuddle. Just a word of advice: most cats do not like to be picked up by strangers. They want to come to you on their own terms. One other bit of caution, please, do not adopt a cat because your child likes their looks. Just as with any successful human relationship, we must find that best personality match with our pets. POINTS ON PETS > PAGE 19
Old Town Crier
POINTS ON PETS | FROM PAGE 19
Any animal you decide to welcome into your home has its breed characteristics as well as its individual quirks. It is up to parents to lay down the rules for children on how to meet their pet’s needs and respect their boundaries. The adoption process itself can be treated as a learning opportunity. I have watched many parents allow their kids to chase a cat around an adoption space even though the cat is clearly walking away or try to pick a cat up around its belly or pat it on the back roughly rather than petting it gently. If you do not already know, you can educate yourself as to good feline handling practices. According to Safe Play with Kids, slow introductions like sitting quietly on the floor and extending your hand slowly toward it is the best way to get to know a cat. All early interactions – handling and holding – should be supervised and children should be taught the warning signs for when a cat has had enough or is getting over stimulated. In the early days, playing games with a wand rather than hands is probably the best strategy and the kitty should be given places where it can retreat. The litter box and maybe even eating time should be off limits. If this sounds too regimented, don’t worry. With just a bit of patience and planning, you can give your children a loyal, loving companion, and many good life and learning experiences. Go for it!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT KINGSTREETCATS.ORG
FOR UPCOMING ADOPTION EVENTS
Re: Sources Professional Pet Sitting Organizations
About the Author - Alberta Frost a lifelong cat owner and volunteer at King Street Cats.
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National Association of Professional Pet Sitters Find a Local NAPPS Pet Sitter | The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters
Pet Sitters International (PSI) The leading pet-sitter association
Selected Alexandria-area Animal Shelters/Rescues Animal Welfare League of Alexandria 4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304 703-838-4774 alexandriaanimals.org/
Fairfax County Animal Shelter 4500 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030 703-830-1100 airfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/
Animal Welfare League of Arlington 2650 S Arlington Mill Drive Arlington, VA 22206 (703) 931-9241 www.awla.org
King Street Cats 25 S. Dove Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-231-7199 kingstreetcats.org/
PETS
OF THE
MONTH LOUIE
4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm Old Town Crier
Age is nothing but a number to 11-yearold Louie! This American foxhound mix has a lot of pep in his step, and we mean that literally. Louie loves a good walk, and he’d be happy to accompany his best friend on a sniff-filled adventures for miles. Of course, at the end of a good long hike, he’s ready to curl up on the couch and call it snuggling time; who doesn’t love to scratch his long, silky ears?
LUMINE Lumine is a bright light in the AWLA Cat Adoptions room. Sociable, outgoing and chatty, she is ready and raring to meet all the new friends that visit her. Lumine is a cool cat who’s looking for an equally chill lifestyle; at 9 years old, she’s much more interested in hanging out with her favorite people than climbing the curtains. If you are looking for a zen kitty who knows the value of friendship, schedule time to meet Lumine by calling 703.746.4774 .
GARNET Garnet is an absolute peach of a pig! This charming black and tan guinea pig is a distinctive chap who likes everyone he meets, be they people or pig. At 1 year old, he’s lived with other guinea pigs and would be open to meeting some new male roommates or hanging out on his own with his new human friends; the sky’s the limit with Garnet. Learn more about Garnet and how to meet him at AlexandriaAnimals.org/ Adopt.
Schedule time to meet with any of these amazing adoptables by emailing Adopt@AlexandriaAnimals.org or calling 703.746.4774 opt. 2. June 2022 19
CARIBBEAN CONNECTION ALEXANDER BRITELL Now that we're all working remotely
Wouldn't you REALLY rather work from the beach?
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Caribbean’s Newest Reggae Hit Is a Love Letter to Antigua Caribbean all-inclusive brand Elite Island Resorts has partnered with reggae legend Causion on a major new musical tribute to the island of Antigua. The song, Antigua Me Come From, is a common phrase of identity and heritage for Antiguans; a love letter to the island, it’s a message to travelers to “forget their troubles, to come take a load off their shoulder and feel the energy when their feet touch the ground.” It’s another major video for Causion, whose long career includes touring with Third World, Rita Marley and Freddie McGregor, among others. “Personally growing up in Antigua was the greatest experience I can imagine. I grew up on the water in English Harbour, and most of my childhood was on the water, sailing and fishing, and the freedom to do that was phenomenal,” he says. “Antigua is a place I have loved from the bottom of my heart, and there is no place I would rather be. As a musician and writer, when you go
to Antigua the words keep coming, the artistry and creation keep coming because you find that place of peace.” The idea of the song and video, according to Elite Island Resorts Chairman Rob Barrett was to “”give the people of Antigua and Barbuda something that shares the beauty and spirit and Antigua with the world for years to come.” CARRIBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 21
Old Town Crier
Hammock Cove in Antigua.
Antigua & Barbuda’s Reggae Ambassador Causion was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2021. He continues to battle as he advocates for the disease and men's health through his music.
CARIBBEAN CONNECTION | FROM PAGE 20
“This amazing collaboration between Elite Island Resorts and Causion captures the essence Antigua and is a project we can all be very proud of,” Barrett said. Elite Island Resorts has a portfolio of five hotels on the island of Antigua, including Hammock Cove; the Pineapple Beach Club; the Verandah Resort and Spa; the Galley Bay Resort and Spa; and the St James’s Club and Villas. “Music has a way of touching us and bringing us closer to where we want to be.” Exploring the concepts of happiness, and what fuels it, he compares the joy from acquiring material things with the lasting power of memories,” Causion says. “A lot of the things I experienced in Antigua when I was younger, those fond memories are still with me today. You can’t buy that kind of happiness.” “Covid has brought the rest of the world and the Caribbean into a frame of mind to open up their eyes and respect each other more. To appreciate each other and what we bring to the table,” he says. “We also appreciate that people are coming to our shores. Now more than ever, in this world when nothing can be assumed, we are learning to appreciate, respect, embrace, and welcome each other.” The song is especially poignant for the artist, in light of his recent, ongoing battle with cancer, one that sees him traveling monthly between Antigua and Florida. It’s a battle that has put his island home in a new light, he says. “I go on hikes to experience the country in a way I didn’t before. It’s an enormous feeling, seeing it from a different perspective for the past two years, and I have found a new love for the country.” For more, visit EliteIslandResorts.com
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About the Author: We are happy to partner with Alexander Britell, Founder and Editor in Chief of the Miami, Florida based Caribbean Journal and his staff contributing to the OTC and our Caribbean Connection Section. Check out the popular online magazine/website at caribjournal.com for valuable information on all fabulous travel options and things of interest in the Caribbean. Old Town Crier
June 2022 21
ROAD TRIP
BY LANI GERING
An Afternoon in Another Old Town Another month and another Road Trip to explore what lies beyond Old Town Alexandria. Since I arrived in Old Town some 45 years ago there have been many changes, but none like what we have seen in the past two years. In that short time the closing of the 100 block of King Street occurred and the beginnings of a pedestrian mall, so to speak, was created. This was not a sudden epiphany, but had been studied for years. The cause and effect of the pandemic hurried things along. Although the end effect of the street closure and additional outdoor space for businesses is yet to be determined, we decided to take a road trip to Winchester, Virginia and visit their Walking Mall. It shows that Winchester encountered some of the same issues that Alexandria faces now in the beginning. In the early 1970's Loudoun Street was the heart of Winchester's shopping district. A few of the downtown businessmen came up with the idea of converting the street into a two block pedestrian walkway. An advisory board was created to oversee the 22 June 2022
it.
special district. In 1974, the Loudoun Street Walking Mall was born. Like Old Town Alexandria, poor downtown drainage resulted in frequent occurrences of high water along the newly created pedestrian mall. The mall remained in a state of flux until 2013 when the city replaced the downtown's underground water system, which at the time was the
third oldest in the United States. Today, the Loudoun Street Mall features cultural events, concerts, outdoor screenings of classic movies, lamp posts with banners displaying works by local artists, holiday celebrations and much more. There is a Civil War Museum and many historical locations throughout the Mall as well in the blocks surrounding
We went to visit the Mall during the week as we understood that it is pretty crowded on weekends. The first thing I noticed was the four Autopark’s around the Mall which provided abundant parking at a very low cost $1 per hour. Bonus! As I eased my truck into my parking place we enjoyed the two minute stroll to the Mall itself. Since it was lunch time we looked for Mexican (Lani's favorite) and landed at El Centro Mexican Restaurant and found a table on their patio. Our waitress, Susan, was prompt to the table and soon we were enjoying the sunshine as well has our margaritas. The food was excellent! There are places offering every kind of cuisine lining the both sides of the Mall. Lots of outdoor dining space for sure. After lunch we took a short walk to soak up the atmosphere of the Mall. Although it is only two blocks long they are really long blocks compared to those here in Alexandria. The footing is all brick and you encounter a drain every so often which has ROAD TRIP > PAGE 23
Old Town Crier
ROAD TRIP | FROM PAGE 22
solved their high water problem. Toward one end of the Mall is a Splash Pad, a respite from the heat on hot summer days. It was up and running but the weather was a bit cooler than it had been so there weren’t any kids or overheated adults taking advantage of it while we were there. One of the fine stores we visited was Mountain Trails Quality Outdoor Outfitters. This place is great with just about everything you need for that outdoor adventure. From where you sleep, food you make and the utensils necessary, to the clothes you need as well as the necessary climbing gear. Owner Garry Green and his puppy Bennie gave us a tour of the store as he told us about his vision for this store and the sister store in Front Royal and another on the horizon. Watch for a full blown Business Profile on Garry soon. It was now time for a libation and what better place to unwind with a cocktail than in a bank, and we found two right across from each other. The first we enjoyed was Union Jack in the old Union Bank. This place is beautifully remodeled and very comfortable. (Photo suggestion maybe use the Union Jack exterior with the interior shot as an inset) From here we headed across the street to another building that said BANK on the front that has a newly opened bar and restaurant, Willie Sutton’s Saloon. Upon walking in the open door, we were told to check back after 3 pm. More on this later. By this time our former layout and design guru, Lauren, texted that she was at her new place of employment, Dividing Creek Brew Pub. She is now in a management position with all of the creative design duties involved in opening a new venue on her plate as well. Dividing Creek is located on the Mall and is serving the brews that they are conjuring up on site. They were still in the process of getting the final touches pulled together when we were there. Neither of us are craft beer drinkers but the two that Lauren pulled for us were both amazingly good. Please check them out on your visit. We made it back to Willie Sutton’s to see what all of the hype was about. It appears that Willie Sutton was a famous bank robber in the early 1900's and the proprietors here have taken that theme to heart. The interior is very nicely appointed and they are in the process of incorporating the vault into the décor. This is a beautifully laid out bar with many fine choices. I was lucky enough to find a five year-old Plantation Rum. I liked this place. One block from the Loudoun Street Mall is the historic George Washington Hotel. The hotel opened in 1924 to great applause but over
Mountain Trails Owner, Garry Green and his pooch Bennie.
ROAD TRIP > PAGE 43
Old Town Crier
June 2022 23
FROM THE BAY
SPINSHEET MAGAZINE
Start Sailing Now – What A Great Sport! Interview by Beth Crabtree, Spinsheet Magazine
Meet Mark Burrows
Photo courtesy of SpinSheet Magazine
Captain Mark Burrows
Taste award-winning wines at
Taste awardof winning wines at theWinery Port of . the Port Leonardtown Leonardtown Winery. Paddle the McIntosh Run water trail. Enjoy a sunset along Breton the galleries showcasing Dine at an outdoor café. Shop the localBay. artists in Southern Maryland’s unique shops and Shepherd’s Old Field only Arts & Entertainment District. Market. Explore the galleries showcasing local artists in Southern Maryland’s only and make Arts & overnight Entertainment District. Located it aheart weekend getaway! in the of St. Mary’s County.
Explore
Stay
The summer before I graduated from college, a friend from school invited me to help him race a Flying Scot in Long Beach, CA. I had no experience, but he said it wasn’t necessary. The race started, and we made our way around the track. At some point, a support boat came by with a cooler of beer and handed a couple to us. I thought, “What a great sport!” A month or so later, the same friend invited me to go with him and a few others out to Catalina Island. It was a great trip with good wind, rolling seas, and an amazing destination. I was hooked. Magazine subscriptions and books followed to learn more about it. After settling in Virginia, I picked up a copy of SpinSheet
Love Port of Leonardtown Winery
www.POLWinery.com
Dine
VisitStMarysMD.com/leonardtown on the square at
an outdoor cafe.
Enjoy a sunset
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in Deltaville, and I became a sailing magazine junkie. As I read the sailing magazines, the lifestyle looked amazing with the destinations all over the world. The projects looked interesting and doable. Something that kept popping up in the articles was to contact a local sailing club about becoming a crew member. It sounded sketchy, but I tried a couple of clubs and got some rides.
Boat ownership and sailing on OPBs I learned to sail aboard Flying Scots at Belle Haven Marina’s sailing school on the Potomac River. After taking lessons I bought a trailerable Hunter 26 named Proposal. I was starting a family, and it seemed the right size. I had a lot of fun and learned a lot on that boat, but I didn’t keep it too long as that same family and my career took up more and more time. When I sold the boat, I learned that it’s a terrible thing watching someone drive away with your first boat. For several years after that I raced with Herrington Harbour Sailing Association (HHSA), primarily PHRF, but also one-design aboard a Catalina 27 and a Beneteau First 36.7. Eventually, I bought my own Beneteau 36.7, Julep, and raced it with HHSA until, once again, life changes made me sell it. Since then, I’ve continued racing OPB (other people’s boats). A couple of years ago, I started helping with some deliveries, and I’ve also done some cruises with HHSA, which finally got me out into the Atlantic. My last boat was an Inland 20 scow called 642, which I sailed out of Washington Sailing Marina with the Potomac River Sailing Association. I sold it last year. They are fast boats, and I loved the physical challenge— be fast, be strong, be smart, and don’t tip over.
What are your future sailing plans? I want to continue to race but have started focusing on 24 June 2022
long term cruising. I’m not sure where I want to go, but Europe sounds interesting. I’ve started tracking boat types and prices and looking for the next boat.
If someone were interested in learning to sail, what would you tell them? I would recommend a sailing school. All the instructors that I know are great, and the programs are excellent guides for getting your feet wet. The next step is getting on the water and doing it. Racing is an easy way to get boat time and learn about the community and lifestyle. With racing, you have it on your calendar. You go rain or shine. It’s very easy to sit at the dock waiting for the perfect day, but you won’t get better at sailing and boat handling. When I raced my boat, I was always on the lookout for crew, as were some of the other skippers. Check out the club websites and contact them. More than likely, you will get picked up—if you reliably show up for each race you commit to.
How has sailing changed your life? I have met a lot of people that would never have been part of my life. It’s kind of like being in a special club. With sailing as a common thread, we always have something to talk about. Sailing has provided several opportunities to travel and given me targets for retirement. I’m a lot more outdoorsy. Teaching knots to scouts was a cinch.
About the Author: This article first appeared in the June 2022 issue of SpinSheet Magazine. For several years, Beth Crabtree, Annapolis sailor and senior editor at SpinSheet, has been interviewing sailors who got hooked on the sport as adults. Find more stories and tips on how to get into sailing at startsailingnow.com.
Old Town Crier
Summer
is just around the corner in SOUTHERN MARYLAND!
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June 2022 25
TO THE BLUE RIDGE
JULIE REARDON RICH STRIKE, 2022 Derby Winner
Odds: 80 – 1 In a truly shocking upset, Rich Strike is the winner of the 2022 Kentucky Derby. Rich Strike closed at 80-1 odds, the longest odds among all 20 horses. This is the first Kentucky Derby win for the trainer Eric Reed and jockey Sonny Leon. This is the second-biggest upset in the Kentucky Derby's 148-year history. The first was Donerail, which won in 1913 after closing as a 91-1 longshot.
Striking It Rich With ‘Rich Strike’
Y
ou don’t have to live in horse country to appreciate a good horse story. The unlikely story of last month’s Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike touches all the feels: under achieving horse, small time owner, unknown trainer and jockey, second-biggest longshot in Derby history. Even a little equine misbehavior after the race televised for the world to see as the colt bit the lead pony and outrider on the way to the winner’s circle. In order to sound like a horse country local, it’s important to be able to distinguish between the instant internet racehorse experts and the real story. Amazing how watching one Derby on TV leads otherwise normal people to parade as experts advising Rich Strike’s trainer, jockey and the track outriders on how to do their jobs. One such expert said the horse was a dud and would be forgotten in a month. I disagree. He and his connections need never win another race and they still have the distinction of winning the Kentucky Derby, arguably the most famous horse race in the world, and winning over a million dollars, something very few horses do. And Rich Strike’s story is epic. Although Rich Strike was bred and initially owned by Calumet Farm in Kentucky, one of the country’s premiere owner/breeder racing stables with 10 Kentucky Derby winners produced, no one thought the chestnut colt by Keen Ice out of a Strike Gold mare, would be one of them. Possessing a decent but not exceptional pedigree, he was last in his first start so Calumet decided to cut their losses and entered him in a $30,000 claiming race to facilitate a fast and cheap claim. Oklahoma Thoroughbred owner, Rick Dawson, down on his luck with racehorses contemplating getting out of the business, bought him. He’d told friend and trainer Eric Reed he’ll try one more time and directs Reed to claim a horse they’d both liked at Churchill Downs. They lose out on buying that one; Rich Strike was his second choice. Rich Strike won that modest claimer by over 17 lengths. A word on claiming and race conditions: All horses start out winless--usually racehorses are worth the 26 June 2022
most before they ever set foot on the track. Of the approximately 20,000 Thoroughbreds born every year, about 60 percent of them actually make it to the races. Of those, over half will never win a race and of those that do win, under one percent win big stakes races like the Triple Crown series. The majority of Thoroughbreds run in claiming races, the bottom rung, or “bread and butter” of the racing industry. At the top rung are the graded stakes races, ranked as Grade 1 (the best) 2 and 3. Conditions are restrictions on eligibility; these are written by the tracks’ racing secretaries. They include age, sex, win record or more. Most races are claiming and non-winner (maiden) races; only a handful being the highest-rated G1 or Group 1 status. The Kentucky Derby, for example, is a G1 championship race restricted to three-year-olds that have earned enough points in qualifying races for entry. Fillies and mares can run in any race they are otherwise qualified for, but historically are not as strong or fast as the males so they have their own races that males cannot enter. Claiming price (the higher the listed claiming price, the better the winning potential) but unlike non-claiming races, any licensed owner or trainer can put in a claim on an entered horse before the start of the race for the listed price and buy it. While not perfect, this system ensures a level playing field as no one with a really good horse can earn a purse or an easy win against lesser competition because they’d risk losing it for the claiming tag. Only three Derby winners ever ran in claiming races and Rich Strike is the only one that was actually claimed in one. From that claiming win to allowance and graded stakes including Derby qualifiers, Rich Strike ran well but wasn’t able to finish better than 3rd in any of his races. While his owner and trainer remained steadfast in thinking they had a good horse, he had yet to prove greatness and failed to earn enough points to qualify for the Derby; restricted to the top-20 point earners. He did, however, garner enough to be 24th on that list, enough to be “also eligible” to enter if there were scratches. And there were several, but 30 minutes before final closing, he was still number 21 so chances looked slim to none. Then, it happened— Etherial Road scratched 15 minutes before closing the
day before the Derby and Rich Strike was in. Now let’s examine his trainer Eric Reed and jockey Sonny Leon. Neither had ever had a horse in, much less won, a graded stakes race. Leon, a Venezuela native, began his career here in the U.S. In 2015 and actually has a decent win record but he’s raced primarily in Ohio and is a relative unknown outside of that state. As a last minute entry with an unknown jockey, it’s no wonder bettors overlooked the duo and made Rich Strike the 80-1 longshot. However, anyone who watched that Derby race saw a masterful ride as Leon guided the horse from the back of the pack, through traffic in and around other horses and outrunning the favorite in the last furlong. Only in the Derby will horses and riders ever face 20-horse fields, most are half that size so it takes not just equine but rider talent to handle not just staying out of trouble but being in a position to win. And not just rider talent—a trainer must handle the delicate balance of fitness and peak performance; you don’t want your colt to reach his peak before or after the big race as can happen with young horses and you want a Derby youngster to be able to handle the crowds and noise at a major sporting event the likes of which they’ve never seen. Plenty of the armchair experts chastised the trainer and the colt for his rogue biting behavior as the lead pony and outrider led him to the winner’s circle, even some horse people. However, a passing knowledge of riding horses doesn’t translate into the care and management of racehorses. One tub thumping Facebook expert bragged that if she owned him he’d be gelded in an hour. Of course, anyone who’s spent time with racing colts knows they nip, they can bite and kick, and not necessarily from meanness. They’re fit, they’re just reaching sexual maturity, they’re stabled next to fillies and mares that are in season in the spring, and they are rarely castrated until they’ve proven they are not good enough to win or breed. And certainly not if they’ve won the Derby and over a million dollars. So there you have it, the Cinderella horse story of the year. We will be rooting for Rich Strike to win the Belmont after bypassing the Preakness. Win, Place or Show or even also-ran, his is a feel good story! The Belmont Stakes runs on June 11th. Check your local listing for channel and times. Old Town Crier
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Old Town Crier
June 2022 27
LET’S EAT
CHARLES OPPMAN
Porcine Perfection With Fathers’ Day just around the corner many families are wondering what they can do for dad to make his special day a memorable one. No, you can’t just give him a card and be done with it. And cutting the lawn for him isn’t good enough either. Doing a household chore for dad isn’t exactly a gesture of unconditional love. As a devoted family who appreciates dad you’re obligated to come up with something he won’t soon forget. What better way is there to say “Pops we love you.” than to feed that special guy an unforgettable meal? Here are easy BBQ pork and black bean salsa and corn recipes for Fathers’ Day. This is also a good way to kick off the BBQ season.
The Pork Roast First you need to select the correct cut of pork. You could use pork loin, but this is not the best choice. The loin cut is devoid of collagen and only has a scant amount of surface fat. (One of the cruelest rules of nature I know is that animal fat equals flavor.) I would select pork shoulder or butt for this particular cooking method, dry radiant heat. A
5 to 7 pound roast should do nicely. It’s better to cook a roast that is more than necessary because approximately one-third will be lost to shrinkage and there is that pesky bone. Preheat the coals as you would for any other BBQ procedure. If you have a gas grill, heat the chamber to 300ºF.
The Dry Rub 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon chili powder Combine all dry ingredients and hand-rub mixture over pork roast. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to marinate refrigerated for 2 to 4 hours. If there is any dry rub remaining, rub it on before cooking. Place a drip pan under the grill or, if this isn’t possible, place roast in baking pan, with ½ cup of water, on the grill itself. A low constant LET'S EAT > PAGE 29
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Old Town Crier
LET'S EAT | FROM PAGE 28
cooking temperature is critical. The temperature must remain around 300ºF during the entire cooking process. Replenish coals as needed to maintain heat level. The roast should remain uncovered at all times. Slow-roasting allows the interior fat and collagen to literally melt giving the roast that unctuous texture and flavor that makes these particular cuts of pork ideal for roasting. Cook until the interior temperature reaches at least 145ºF. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer (a tipsensitive, instant-read digital thermometer is best). Cooking time will vary, but should be between 2 to 3 hours. Remove from heat and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. The roast will exude natural juice as the muscle fibers relax. Save the juice for later use. The rest time is also important for food-safety reasons. According to the USDA, after meat is removed from a heat source, its temperature remains constant or continues to rise, which helps to destroy harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli.
The Salsa 3 ears of fresh corn (drained canned corn is okay) 2 cans of black beans, strained to remove liquid (to get rid of preservatives and sodium) 1 teaspoon hot sauce 1 can diced tomatoes, including juice ½ cup yellow onion, diced ½ cup cilantro, chopped ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder (optional) ½ teaspoon salt With a paring knife, cut kernels off each corn cob. To do this, hold the cob vertically and shear off the kernels by slicing downward toward the cutting board. You might want to do this on a dinner plate as the kernels tend to fly everywhere. The plate will contain them. Cover raw kernels with water and simmer until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Strain cooked kernels and place them in a large mixing bowl. Combine all remaining ingredients with cooked kernels and mix thoroughly. Adjust for seasoning. Salsa does not have to be served warm. Corn tortilla chips would go well with this dish.
The Eating Slice pork and display on a platter for service. The slices of the crispy exterior are wonderful. Dad gets first dibs on these. Sorry! Warm four tortillas over the grill or gas burner and keep warm with a cloth towel. Serve with sliced onion and avocado, chopped cilantro and tomato, shredded iceberg lettuce and sour cream. Dad can dress his taco the way he likes or he can even have it au naturale, without condiments. If dad chooses to go with just meat, he can drizzle some of the delicious warm pork juice on his taco. Sure it’s messy, but who cares with eats this good? Dad can do whatever he desires, this is the only day of the year the man gets things his way. Dads rule!
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June 2022 29
DINING OUT
THE GASTRONOMES
Goin’ Out to the Gateway
GATEWAY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 5455 Broomes Island Road Port Republic, Maryland Gateway-Restaurant.com 410-586-1870
Our choice of restaurant this month was more by accident than by design. It was deadline time for this issue and we had yet to settle on the subject matter for this column. We were spending the night in our friend’s gorgeous home on the Patuxent River near Broomes Island in Southern Maryland and decided to drive the few miles to “Gateway” for dinner and do some brainstorming for this column. After ordering our drinks and looking at the menu (all the while talking about Old Town eateries as possibilities) the light went on! Why not write about the place we were eating? Duh! Full disclosure: Over the years, we have driven by this place well over 250 times, literally, and stopped in for a cold beer once about 10-15 years ago. Last March, when I had my right knee replaced and was recuperating at the same house on the water, we needed somewhere close to get take out one evening. Gateway Seafood Restaurant & Lounge was the answer. Since then, we have stopped in when we can and it has never disappointed. The Gateway is really pretty unassuming in outside appearance until you stop to take a little closer look. In addition to full bar and restaurant service, the Gateway has a drive up liquor window and a
substantial take out business. Can’t believe we’ve never picked up on the drive up window aspect after all these years! The interior is just what you would expect in a place in this corner of the world...dark wood, nice big bar, large flat screen for watching sports and a good bit of room for casual dining and lots of parking space. They don’t, however, have a dedicated outdoor dining area. There is a small deck in the back to accommodate those of you who are smokers. This food in the restaurant is quite the find. Gateway has been family owned for over 45 years. They pride themselves on their “down home” cooking but you can tell that they are a bit more than that from the list DINING OUT > PAGE 32
Grab Dad!
Carefully...
and bring him to
RIVER BEND BISTRO
on FATHER’S DAY SUNDAY, JUNE 19
DAD SPECIALS for Brunch and Dinner Call for Reservations! Look for Our New Summer Menu
CRAB CAKES Are Back!
7966 Ft. Hunt Road • 703-347-7545
RiverBendBistro.com
30 June 2022
Old Town Crier
DINING GUIDE AMERICAN
ADA'S ON THE RIVER 3 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1400 AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE 1106 King Street 703.721.3970 BLACKWALL HITCH 5 Cameron St. 703-739-6090 CAFE 44 44 Canal Center 571-800-6644 CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080 CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE 1400 Duke Street 703-299-0894 FIVE GUYS 725 King St. 703-549-7991 FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342 GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288 GRATEFUL KITCHEN 727 N. Henry Street HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969 HOPS 'N SHINE 3410 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-566-1509 HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355 JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372 JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777 JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO 1508 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria 703-436-0025 LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313 THE LIGHT HORSE 715 King Street 703-549-0533 LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street 703-549-5545
Old Town Crier
LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511
MACKIE’S BAR AND GRILL 907 King St. 703-684-3288 mackiesbarandgrill.com MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117 MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street 703-548-8800 mason-social.com MURPHYS IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032 OAK STEAKHOUSE 901 N. St. Asaph St. 703-840-3395 OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699 THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street 571-257-8851 RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. Hollin Hall Shopping Center 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 RT's RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 rtsrestaurant.com SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266 SLATERS MARKET 1552 Potomac Greens Dr. 703-548-3807 SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649 SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550 SOUTH BLOCK 106 N. Lee Street 703-465-8423 SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222 SWEETGREEN 823 King St. 571-319-0192 SWEET FIRE DONNA'S BBQ & HOPS 510 John Carlyle Street 571-312-7960
Please Contact your favorite restaurants for updates on their "Social Distancing" policies. THE STUDY 116 South Alfred Street 703-838-8000 T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com TOASTIQUE GOURMET TOAST & JUICE BAR 1605 King Street 571-312-1909 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com
TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com VILLAGE BRAUHAUS 710 King Street 703-888-1951 villagebrauhaus.com
VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669 VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & THE HI-TIDE LOUNGE 101 North Union St. 703-935-8890 THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868 warehouseoldtown.com
BRABO 1600 King St. 703-894-3440 LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661 FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151 LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854 TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141
ASIAN
ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515
FRENCH
BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com BISTRO SANCERRE FRENCH 1755 Duke Street
ITALIAN
KINGS RANSOM 728 King Street 571-319-0794 KISSO ASIAN BISTRO 300 King Street 703-888-1513 MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710
ALDO'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 2850 Eisenhower Avenue (behind the building) 703-888-2243 BUGSYS PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998 IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833
MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600 NASIME 1209 King St. 703-548-1848 SIGNATURE THAI 722 King Street 707-888-2458 THAILAND ROYAL 801 N. Fairfax St. 703 535-6622 TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878 CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 KAI ZEN TAVERN 1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212 SISTERS THAI 503 Montgomery St. 571-777-8154 CONTINENTAL
LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086 MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300 MICHAEL’S LITTLE ITALY 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338 PIECE OUT 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-398-1287 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 MEDITERRANEAN
CEDAR KNOLL GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665 OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN 1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361
BARCA PIER & WINE BAR 2 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1100 TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com
PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. 703-329-0006 VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 1118 King Street 703-566-2720 VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747 SEAFOOD
HANKS OYSTER BAR 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 WHISKEY & OYSTER 301 John Carlyle 703-567-1533 INDIAN
DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd. 703-660-6085 DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338 KISMET MODERN INDIAN 111 North Pitt Street 703-567-4507 NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615 MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN
CASA TEQUILA (next to Crate & Barrel) 1701 Duke 703-518-5312 CHOP SHOP TACO 1008 Madison Street 571-970-6438 DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144 LOS CUATES RESTAURANT 1116 King Street 703-548-2918 LOS TIOS GRILL 2615 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-299-9290 LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167 TAQUERIA POBLANO 2400-B Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-TACO (8226) TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203 URBANO 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148
GRAB ABITE, TONIGHT! June 2022 31
DINING OUT | FROM PAGE 30
of daily specials they offer. There are over 20 appetizers ranging from Chicken Tenders and Wings, Fried Pickles and Loaded Tater Tots to Crab Balls, Fried Oysters, Coconut Shrimp, Catfish Bites, Stuffed Mushroom Caps and Steamed Shrimp. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites were among the specials when we were there. They offer 16 options of seafood either steamed, baked, broiled or fried. From the land they offer steaks, pork chops and various chicken dishes. There is so much here that making a decision is difficult.
CELEBRATING 36 YEARS
Join Us For “Good Times” In Old Town!
Happy Hour Starts At 4 p.m. Sunday, June 19
Treat Dad to Father’s Day Brunch June is the month for Weddings
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I started out with the Coconut Shrimp appetizer. We had just been to Rehoboth Beach in Delaware a few months ago and I had Coconut Shrimp for the first time in many years so I wanted to try it at Gateway. It was great. Lightly fried with the right amount of coconut and nice plump shrimp. The Thai Chili dipping sauce added a nice flavor. I also ordered their version of Chesapeake Chicken. I remembered eating Chesapeake Chicken, a combination of chicken breast and crabmeat, at the Summer House restaurant in Rehoboth back in the 70’s. When done right this is delicious and this was done right. At the Gateway, the grilled chicken is topped with their signature crab dip and it was definitely a treat. I opted for the sandwich size order since the shrimp had pretty much filled me up but I will get the full order when I go back so I can enjoy it longer. My partner had her eye on the fried chicken which is a ½ chicken served with two sides, however, they were out of it so….she opted for a much healthier choice of the grilled salmon
that was on the specials menu. It was served on a pewter platter coated with an Asian inspired reduction and a lemon wedge. The portion was generous and cooked just right. All entrees come with a choice of two sides – this is where the “home cooking” element shines. In addition to the standard garden salad, broccoli, baked potato or fries options there is macaroni & cheese, scalloped potatoes, stewed tomatoes, coleslaw, green beans, pickled beets, lima beans and sweet potato casserole. My pal opted for pickled beets and the ever so healthy scalloped potatoes. These are sides like your grandma used to make. Since we were just having a light dinner we dined at the bar - which is something we like to do. The back bar is extensive and the beer choices many but I am guessing if you are a wine snob, this isn’t your place to be. Cindy, our bartender/server and former school teacher, was delightful as she never stopped moving between us, serving tables, making the house drinks and waiting on folks picking up dinner to go at the Drive-up Window. When things got hectic during the dinner rush, her “off-duty” co-worker Kim left her after work beverage on the bar and jumped in to help out. That’s just how the people that work here are.
The food, the beverage and the people are the main reasons why you should take the drive down there but the price points on everything on the menu including the adult beverages more than make up for the extra cash you have to spend on gas! GETTING THERE: Take the Beltway and exit on Route 4 South and follow it through Prince Frederick to the Broomes Island Road light. Turn right and drive until you see it on your right!! Old Town Crier
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(grapes from the Mediterranean region) at his estate in Monticello. But the narrative usually jumps from Jefferson to the 1970s when Barboursville Vineyards and others started making local wine for the first time since prohibition. Not nearly as well known is the century between these benchmarks, including how in 1880 Virginia was the 5th largest wine producer in the United States. Norton, an American variety discovered in the early1800s, was the state’s main grape. It was so popular a Norton from the Monticello Wine Company won gold at the Vienna World’s Fair in 1873 and silver in Paris in 1878. At the start of the 20th century Charlottesville was calling itself the “Capital of the Wine Belt in Virginia,” although vineyards dotted the entire state. One of these vineyards was Belmont, located not far from the northern entrance to what is now Shenandoah National Park. Once reaching over 100 acres of vines, at its peak Belmont may have been the largest vineyard in the state. Belmont was founded by Marcus Blakemore Buck (1816-1881), a member of a prominent Front Royal family. In 1847, Marcus purchased nearly 2,000 acres in the mountains just outside the city. Half he subsequently sold, but the remaining land he turned into his farm. According to research by archeologist Dr. Carole Nash of James Madison University, by 1863 the business included 80 acres of vines and 10 acres of sugar cane, farmed
by slaves. The end of slavery and destruction of the local rail network led Marcus to diversify his business, adding a distillery that sold whiskey to local pharmacies. In 1875, Marcus fell on hard times, resulting in the sale of Belmont to his cousin T.A. Ashby, who brought the farm back to prosperity. Virginia cartographer Jed Hotchkiss included Belmont in his 1884 science and business journal, saying, “The Belmont Vineyard, on the Blue Ridge near Front Royal, Warren co., Va., is … probably the largest vineyard in the state, as it has over 100 acres in grapes GRAPEVINE > PAGE 34
June 2022 33
GRAPEVINE | FROM PAGE 33
BELMONT VINEYARDS TODAY Dry Wines Bella Rosso 100% barrel finished, hints of tobacco, leather, coffee and a spicy finish highlight this blend of 50% Norton and a 50% blend Tempranillo, Syrah & Merlot. - $24 Frontenac Barrel aged for over two years in Missouri oak. Medium bodied with a complex finish. - $21 Norton A blend of barrel aged and nouveau Norton wines. Fullbodied with silky tannins. - $27 Chardonel Bold and spicy oak aromas with a creamy finish - our answer to Chardonnay. - $21 Vidal Blanc Wild fermented. Light & delicate with a note of pear. - $21
Dry Rose Light bodied with aromas of rose petal. Notes of cranberry and strawberry with a bight finish. - $16
Semi-Dry to Sweet Wines Brave Heart Classy light red, vibrant blackberry, a hint of sweetness and a silky finish - $16 Catawba Delicate and balanced Catawba fruit with a spicy grapefruit finish - $12 White Wall Light with aromas of pear and apple. Tropical fruit on the pallet with a clean finish. - $16 Pink Dogwood A light and refreshing rose’ wine with the aroma and flavor of fresh picked grapes - $16
real people. earth friendly. fabulous wines. OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11-5 PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS OF SIX OR MORE FAMILIES WELCOME FROM 11-2. 21 AND OLDER ONLY FROM 2 PM TO CLOSE 15669 Limestone School Rd • Leesburg, VA 20176 703.771.1197 • fabbioliwines.com • info@fabbioliwines.com
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of various kinds…This vineyard was planted many years ago by Mr. Marcus Buck, and the success that has attended its cultivation proves conclusively that what we have so often said about the Blue Ridge as the wine-growing region of the Atlantic Highlands is in every respect true.” By the 1880s Belmont was producing as much as 20,000 gallons of sweet red wine, port, and dry red. It was also a nursery, selling vines to other vineyards. Newspapers referenced Ashby growing over a dozen grape varieties including Catawba, Concord, Delaware, and Norton. These wines were sold throughout the U.S. According to letters republished in the Front Royal Sentinel, “The reputation of the Belmont wines is attested to the fact that during the last year 6,000 gallons of them were shipped to Minnesota alone, besides large quantities to Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, and other states.” These good times couldn’t last forever. By 1900 the business had folded, likely a victim of competition from California wine, economic depression, and the state’s nascent prohibition movement. Belmont’s remnants were lost to history until a Park Ranger discovered grape vines growing along Dicky Ridge, not far off Skyline Drive. The Park contacted Dr. Nash to investigate further. Nash and her students explored the farm using advanced geospatial technology as well as old-fashioned fieldwork. Their discoveries included a pair of underground wine cellars, several farmsteads, a road system, and multiple stone walls that marked the vineyard’s boundaries. Her team was also able to trace the outline of several fields. Even over a century later, Belmont’s grapes can be found growing in the wild. Potential explorers should be warned; this is not an easy hike and its remains are protected under law. The Park Service tore down the remaining buildings in the 1950s. Only stone walls, a large pit, and the corner of one of the buildings are visible to the naked eye. While Belmont Vineyards is long gone, it left a legacy that was taken up by future generations. According to Shenandoah National Park Cultural Resource Program Manager Dr. Brinnen Carter, “I think Belmont showed you that Virginia can do industrial scale production of wine.” During its peak Belmont produced the equivalent of 8,000 cases of wine a year, more than most Virginia wineries today. While vinifera grapes such as Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Chardonnay make up over 80% of today’s Virginia vineyards, hybrid varieties such as Vidal Blanc and Traminette are widely used, primarily to produce sweet wines. And Marcus Buck would be proud to know that Norton is thriving in Virginia today, with over 100 acres planted. Hybrid and American grapes have an important place in the overall Virginia vineyard industry due to their hardiness, an important trait as climate change causes increasingly-extreme weather patterns. Their ability to thrive without requiring the same degree of pesticides and anti-fungal spraying also makes them better suited for sustainable agriculture and organic winemaking. To learn more about the history of Virginia wine, look up The Birthplace of American Wine: The Untold Story behind Virginia’s Vines - Virginia’s Travel Blog.
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34 June 2022
Author: Matthew Fitzsimmons is a blogger who has visited nearly every winery in Virginia – most of them twice. Track his progress at https://winetrailsandwanderlust.com/. Old Town Crier
EXPLORING VA WINES
DOUG FABBIOLI
Why Agritourism? AS I WAS WRESTLING WITH FINDING A THEME FOR MY WRITINGS THIS MONTH, I REALIZED I HAD AN APPOINTMENT SCHEDULED THIS MORNING THAT COULD HELP. I met with Wine America today in order to talk with US Representative Jennifer Wexton about her bipartisan bill on Agritourism. Wine America is a nationwide trade association and I got to meet a number of winery reps and regional reps from winegrowing regions across the country—Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Texas to name a few. We all have embraced the idea of having a business that is based on farming and encourages folks to visit the farm—see what we do, sample the wares, and bring some home. There are a few key points about this relatively new concept that make Agritourism a “win” for the county, state, or in this case the country. Tourism doesn’t need to bring people from far away. Many times it’s only a short trip from the city to visit the farm where the crops grow, the houses are spaced
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AGRITOURISM IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST ECONOMICS ; IT‘S ALSO ABOUT LAND USE AND OPEN SPACE. further apart and the air feels more natural. During their visit, people may buy a meal down the road, visit a local park, shop at a local store, and hopefully bring home some goods from their destination. If an overnight stay occurs, the economic impact on the region goes up dramatically. Agritourism is about more than just economics though; it is also about land use and open space. Businesses that utilize the land in a sustainable way give the land a better chance at staying open rather than being developed into another shopping center or subdivision. Keeping the urban sprawl in check helps to keep the land working for the community and attractive to visitors who are looking to get away from the city for a while. Another thought about agritourism is that it can expose young people - who might not otherwise
have the chance to see and experience it - to farms, land, and the careers that go along with that land. Agriculture is an industry that is here to stay as long as we have people to feed. We need the land, the people to farm it and the knowledge to grow the crops into a successful business. As many of you know, my passion project has been teaching young folks about farming and how they can make a living doing it. We need to keep showing these kids how our hard work can pay off in lifestyle, sustainability, and profit. The other side of the agritourism coin is the growing interest in what’s called the “foodie” movement. People are interested in the flavors and styles of their food and in knowing where it comes from. Heirloom tomatoes, fresh-off-the-farm corn, grass fed beef, local wines (of course!) and all the many other parts of locally grown food are what fuel the passion and discussion of the foodie movement. People want to see their food and have a closer connection to it. Sometimes supporting your local farmer means supporting legislation that will help them. Look for the Agritourism bill in the near future, and you might ask your local farmer how it helps them. Please visit your local farm, bring the kids where it makes sense, and bring home some of our products. This year’s season has just begun, and time on the farm is always time well spent!
June 2022 35
LET'S GET CRAFTY
TIMOTHY LONG
ST. BARTHS:
Rhum,Ti’ Punch, and Cuban Cigars
I
feel like I’m in France. That’s the best way to describe St. Barthelemy, or as it is referred, St. Barths. The island is part of the French West Indies and is located near St. Martin. Our villa sits on the side of a mountain. Almost every villa here sits on the side of a mountain. The view is stunning. Island mountains rising out of the perfect blue Caribbean Sea. The local language is French as many of the islanders are from France. Most of them speak some English as well. But alas, my Kitchen Spanish was of no help to me here. And I used all my French on our first day: bonjour, merci, and toilet. I’m not sure that toilet even counts. Oh, and buku. I learned that one from Vietnam movies. I grew up outside of Pittsburgh and I’ve hiked the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. I’m used to winding mountainous roads but I’ve never experienced mountain roads like these. The road leading up to our villa can be best described as a spiral staircase that turns in several different directions. It’s that tight, that steep, and that winding. And to make things even more exciting, it’s a two-way street which is barely wide enough for one car. The cars here are mostly small, which is helpful. I asked our
Tim’s
Whiskey and Cigar Recommendations 36 June 2022
driver what happens if a car is coming the other way. He said that they figure it out. Unlike in the States, everyone here drives very cautiously and courteously. The terrain demands it. I find the roads a bit unnerving and my New Orleans-raised wife finds them terrifying. As our ferry arrives in the town of Gustavia, St. Barths, the sites are astounding. Amazing large yachts dot the harbor. Beautiful buildings are everywhere. Lovely villas are scattered on the mountainsides. I note the shops that line the street adjacent to the dock: Hermes, Prada, Dior. And everyone is dressed accordingly. Even the dock hands are wearing collared shirts that are tucked into pressed shorts. I’m sure this island has a poorer section, but it is not on display here. This is not like any Caribbean Island I have ever seen. This is the Hamptons of the Caribbean, but with a European flare. Wealthy French and Americans vacation here. Once we settle into our villa, and I settle into my first cigar, I can hear a rooster crowing over the hill from us. I look over to see a mother goat and her kid kneeling and drinking from our pool. Clearly, I am in the Caribbean. And it’s wonderful. The culture in the French West Indies is a little different from other Caribbean islands. The main
drink of choice here is wine, both French and American. And, like the other islands, rhum is popular. (I will use the French spelling, rhum, for this article.) The local currency is the Euro, but American dollars are also accepted. You find the common Caribbean beers: Caribe, Presidente, Red Stripe, etc. and St. Barths does have its own craft beer. I try it. It’s nothing that I want to write about. Craft rhum and Cuban cigars are this island’s treasurers. During my second night on the island, I had the pleasure of meeting Eddy Stakelborough, the owner of Eddy’s Ghetto restaurant. Don’t let the name fool you, this restaurant is beautiful. It’s a superb casual dining experience, French food with an island twist. A TGIFridays this is not. It is obvious that Eddie is an islander by his appearance. He is thin and tanned with grayish hair pulled back in a ponytail and a well-trimmed grayish beard. He is dressed very casually in shorts, a pull over linen island shirt, and flip flops. He even wears flip flops in his kitchen, something that would never be allowed in the States. Eddie is charming and loquacious, typical qualities of most restaurateurs. I know that LET'S GET CRAFTY > PAGE 43
Clement Rhum Vieux Agricole XO
Romeo Y Julieta Short Churchill, Habana
I want to start by thanking Eddy. This rhum is great! I get fruit sweetness on the nose, some apricot, mango, passion fruit, and even grape. The flavor on the palate is all fruit and delightful. Along with the apricot and mango, you get melon, figs, pear, oak, and a hint of raspberry. The tastes blend wonderfully together. The finish is subtle but sweet with vanilla and a bit of brown sugar.
Romeo Y Julieta has long been the quintessential Cuban cigar. The company has several variations of its famous original Churchill. The Short Churchill is by far the best of these. The flavors blend wonderfully together. You get hay on the initial puff. Afterwards, chocolate on the early tastes, then red wine, apple, and toffee come through, but none of them dominate. It’s a delightful smoke and well worthy of its 92 Cigar Aficionado rating.
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June 2022 37
FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT
Keeping It Cool This month officially marks the start of the summer season. I hope all of you have cool vacations planned that include lots of physical activities. As the temperatures rise through the summer, it becomes extremely important to monitor when, where and how much exercise you should be doing along with hydrating properly. Did you know that water accounts for more than 60% of the human body’s volume? Water is so vital to life that we can survive only about three days without it depending upon climate conditions. The hotter and more humid the environment, the faster we become dehydrated. It takes as little as a two percent change in body weight to negatively affect exercise performance. For a 150 lb person, that equates to only 3lbs!
There are many factors that affect your hydration status such as: • Ambient Air Temperature (Outside) • Humidity
There is no single “Gold Standard” for measuring hydration levels because too many factors play into how your body stores water. However, here are some general exercise and hydration guidelines to follow this summer: • Try to workout during the coolest part of the day if outside (usually mornings) • Weigh yourself before & after your workout
• Individual Sweat Rates • Body Temperature (Internal)
• Drink about 10 ounces of fluid 1 hour before your workout
• Exercise Intensity & Duration • Fitness Level • Individual Body Fat Percentage • Existing Health Conditions such as cystic fibrosis, diabetes, kidney failure, etc. Dehydration can have several negative effects during exercise
such as decreased muscle strength & endurance, coordination, mental acuity, and impaired thermoregulation. One of the most important functions of water within the body is to help regulate body heat. When the body is properly hydrated, exercise will feel easier and you will typically have a lower heart rate at the same intensity than you would if you were in a dehydrated state. This is due to optimal blood volume and cardiac output to deliver nutrients and oxygen to your working muscles.
• Drink 8 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes during exercise • Drink 20 ounces of fluid per pound of weight lost through sweat after exercise • Always finish with a cool-down by gradually decreasing intensity
• Use a cool, damp towel on the neck to help bring body temperature down • It’s better to have a sports drink (Gatorade, PowerAde, Propel) to replace electrolytes (mainly sodium) after a prolonged workout over 60 minutes
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NICOLE FLANAGAN
FITNESS
Build Strength and Stability While Increasing Flexibility Incorporating yoga positions into your workout can greatly improve your core strength, stability and flexibility. For those of you who have never taken a yoga class, I recommend giving it a try. A yoga class will challenge you in a way that is incomparable to a strength-training workout. Yoga increases flexibility through various positions that act on the joints. It gently stretches the muscles, tendons and ligaments that we usually don’t focus on in a workout. For someone with limited flexibility, yoga will help to improve the range of motion that the joints can handle. Performing yoga moves will also increase blood circulation and help the body move vital fluids throughout. By gently stretching muscles and joints as well as massaging the body’s organs, yoga ensures that blood is reaching all parts of your body. This increase in circulation improves your body’s ability to flush out toxins. With so many benefits of yoga there is no reason not to give some of them a try. Here are some moves to do on your
own, or add to your existing workout that will help improve strength, stability and flexibility.
Downward Dog Start on all fours with hands directly under shoulders and knees directly under hips Walk hands a few inches forward and spread fingers wide, pressing palms into mat. Curl toes under and slowly press hips toward ceiling, bringing your body into an inverted V, pressing shoulders away from ears. Feet should be hip-width apart, knees slightly bent. Hold for three full breaths Make this move more challengingonce you are in the V position bring one leg straight up toward the ceiling keeping your hips level. Hold each leg for three breaths.
The Crow Starting from the downward dog position walk feet forward until knees touch your arms.
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Bend your elbows, lift heels off floor, and rest knees against the outside of your upper arms. Keep toes on floor, abs engaged and legs pressed against arms. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths Make this move more challengingstarting from beginner position, squeeze your inner thighs to lift heels off floor. • With fingers spread wide, slowly move body forward until your weight is balanced over your hands. • Draw abs inward (as if pulling belly button to spine) to lift your hips up higher, keeping your face forward. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths.
The Lunge Start in downward dog position. Step your right leg forward to the inside of your right hand. Drop your left knee to the floor and lift your chest up. Keeping your right knee in line with your ankle and your back straight, place hands on your knee. Hold for 10 breaths.
Return to downward dog; switch legs and repeat Make this move more challengingFrom beginner pose, press into the ball of your back foot and lift into a standing lunge. • Straighten back leg, place heel down on floor, and turn foot out a few inches. Lift arms toward ceiling (Warrior I). Spread your fingers, turn palms in, and open up chest. Hold for 10 breaths. • Switch legs; repeat As I have said many times before, adding new things to a workout will make it more fun and help to prevent an injury due to overuse. Increasing flexibility will help improve posture by releasing some of the tension caused by stress. If yoga is not exactly your style, try taking a look at what your fitness club has to offer. Give some of these moves or a new class a try. You may just start incorporating a yoga or “Body Flow” class into your regular workout!
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June 2022 39
FIRST BLUSH
KIM PUTENS
Introduce Your Pop to Some Product
Father’s Day is around the corner. Instead of the same tired “ole tie”, why not treat him to some products he’ll use every day.
40 June 2022
While many of us associate “products” with beauty and women, it’s a fact that many men use “products” too. Let’s face it, they need to wash their hair, shave, and take care of their skin, just like women. So, what do you get a man? Here are some tips on products men like to use and what to look for.
To start, let’s consider the face. Most men need to shave every day, unless they are choosing to grow out their beard. When choosing shaving products, there are a few things to consider. Most shaving products come in 3 different forms – shave oil, shaving cream or shaving gel. Shave oils are great for smoothing out a rough beard to give a very close shave. Shaving creams are great for all skin types, except those with the oiliest of skin who aren’t keen about putting a cream on their face. The upside to a shave cream is that it’s easy to see where you are shaving. The downside is it can clog the razor. Shave gels offer the closest shave, don’t dry out the skin, and are great for sensitive skin types. Mint or menthol added to shaving products helps to ensure a close shave and help prevent ingrown hairs. Like women, men need to care for their skin if they want to prolong or limit the signs of aging. Many wonder why men’s products are created separately from women’s
products. First, and most obvious, is that men like products without fragrance and that don’t appear to be fluffy. A main reason for male specific products is that most men have oily skin. This is further complicated by the hair follicles on their face that make for a unique situation. When choosing skin care products for men, it’s best to look for products formulated specifically for them. There has been an explosion of men’s skincare lines in recent years that make for an abundant of choices. In caring for the skin, the first place to start is with a good cleanser. It’s best to look for cleansers with salicylic acid to keep pores clean (because men tend to have more active pores that are ripe for bacteria to develop in) or ones that are nonoily, like foaming cleansers. For a moisturizer, try oil-free moisturizers with sunscreen. Sunscreen is very important because of how damaging the sun is to the skin. And, the oil-free formula is non-greasy and won’t further clog pores. An eye cream is very important too. Even my husband, who looks 10 years younger than his true age, is showing signs of crowfeet. The eyes are always the first place to show signs of aging – even on men! Keep in mind that not every man fits into the oily skin category. Products have been created for drier skin types too.
As for the hair – unless your man is “follicly challenged” – he needs something to clean his hair. For many men, the feeling of very clean hair is of utmost importance. Simple, everyday shampoos are perfect. Since most men don’t ‘color’ their hair like women, gentle, color safe shampoos are not a concern or necessary. If you have a guy that likes to use a lot of styling gels or waxes in their hair, it might be best to look for a clarifying shampoo to help break down the buildup that hair gels and waxes tend to leave behind. Conditioners are not usually a concern for men, but there are the rare occasions that they do need them. Again, conditioners created for men tend to be on the lighter side and simply act as a light conditioner to easily detangle the hair. I’ve only touched on the bare bones of good products for men. Even if you think your man would NEVER touch a skin care product or consider a different shaving product, don’t underestimate the power of suggestion. My husband was the least likely candidate for any of these products. But, as soon as I exposed him to some good and simple skin care products and different shaving products, he was hooked. Now, he has become the epitome of a product junkie. Old Town Crier
GO FISH
STEVE CHACONAS
The Annual “Oh no, not another tie!” Column
Dude, don’t get Dad another tie! He might wear it…only when you’re in town or when you mention it. He really dreads having to tie one on for you! It’s Father’s Day, put a bit of thought into gifts for the guy who was always thinking of you! Let Dad know he’s legendary.
Long pants or shorts? Back Country’s Stoic ZipOff pants perform during cool hikes up mountains and warmer jogs down.
Comfort and performance are achieved with a breathable, quick dry poly spandex blend with 4 way freedom of movement stretch. Moisture just drips away with the DWR treatment. Zipped off, 5-inch shorts have a leg up on comfort. Closing the leg bottom is a cinch. For a perfect fit, use the integrated belt. backcountry.com No matter the activity, Sitka’s long sleeve Hanger Henley will become Dad’s all around favorite. Comfort meets design, with technologies like Insect Shield
and Polygiene® Odor Control, prevent the outdoors from bugging Dad and keeping him smelling like a rose, no matter his activity. A quickdrying lightweight Polyester/ Spandex blend provides comfort and stretch. Stylish 3 button design is built tough for comfort and performance. sitkagear.com Take his favorite swim and hiking shorts, add polyester mesh draining pockets, and Dad will appreciate Filson’s Gline Canyon multi-use shorts. Nothing short about Gline Canyon’s 8 inch inseam.
A no-rust plastic snap waist closure stays snug. Thigh cargo pocket, with a hidden key clip, zips for security. Practical clothing since the Gold Rush, Filson’s new Gline Canyon shorts are quick-drying, have an elastic waistband, and can be worn with a belt. filson.com Keeping Dad cool and clean, Gill’s XPEL Tec Hoody blocks harmful sun rays with 50+ UV and a hood for maximum protection. Thumb loops keep the shirt over the wrist. The comfortable lightweight XPEL Tec Hoody wicks moisture away from skin and an exclusive plantbased fabric treatment amazingly repels water and other fluids. Seams are flatlocked to add comfort. This will be Dad’s favorite fishing shirt that he will also wear off the water. gillmarine. com
Nothing feels better than merino wool Wool naturally provides warmth, breathability, and comfort. Sock it to Dad with Minus33 Mountain Heritage socks. Wool/nylon yarn technology creates a durable sock. A variety of heights and weights, 3 zones of elastic support, keep socks in place. Odor resistant wool with light heel and toe cushion are comfortable and long-lasting without unnecessary bulk. Sock top venting keeps feet cool. Minus33 socks will touch Dad’s sole. minus33.com Protecting hands from the elements and the physical aspect of fishing, Dad needs comfortable gloves that allow him to tie knots and cast while keeping his grip with a sticky grip on the palm. Gill’s GO FISH > PAGE 43
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Potomac River Bassing in June It’s topwater time. Braid and CoPoly lines are best. Never fluorocarbon. It sinks! Gamma Torque 60-pound braid works well with walking baits and frogs on casting gear. A slightly softer rod works well with buzzbaits and toads. For spinning gear, drop to 20-pound test. Instead of traditional skirts, thread buzz toads on buzzbaits. This helps baits stay on the surface and allows them to be slowly crawled over grass and other cover. Use stinger hooks! For poppers, make long casts. At the beginning of the retrieve, pop baits with the rod tip up to prevent poppers from diving. As it gets closer, lower the rod, or baits will jump out of the water. Another great post spawn bait is the jerkbait with a tail prop. Snap it down and let it slowly rise. The snap causes an erratic action, and the prop not only creates a disturbance on the dive, but also slows the rise of the bait. Pitch tubes to wood, docks, and grass cover. Use 14-pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon line. Peg 3/16-ounce bullet weights. Watch for bites on the fall.
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215 King St. Alexandria, VA 22314 sales@johncrouch.comcastbiz.net (703) 548-2900 | (703) 739-2302 June 2022 41
OPEN SPACE
LORI WELCH BROWN
DADS . . . f o e v o l e h t r o F
Bacon, pancakes, the smell of freshly-mowed grass, Old Spice cologne. Just a few of the things that remind me of Dad. He’s been gone a year and a half now. Some days it feels like forever since I’ve talked to him, and other days it feels like just yesterday when I was writing his obituary. Mom died in 2006, and not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. With Dad, it’s somehow different. I feel like when he died, he took a part of me with him. Maybe it’s because I’m his daughter. Maybe it’s because he was in my life for 14 years longer. Maybe I’ve had longer to process Mom’s grief while Dad’s is still raw. Whatever the case, dads are different and special. I know mine sure was. From the moment I opened my eyes, he’s been there for me. In the early years, he provided a roof over my head, put food on the table, and made sure I was safe and secure. As I began to grow, he became a coach and teacher watching anxiously as my little legs pedaled away from him or dived into the ocean. He was always there with good advice, “Slow down for the turns” or to swoop me up after the wave dragged me under. He and Mom set the rules, but he was the enforcer. Boy, was he strict. My husband jokes that I’m very black and white in how I think sometimes, and I credit Dad for that. There wasn’t any gray area when it came to dealing with Dad’s laws. Curfew was specific and understood. “Ten o’clock is ten o’clock. If I wanted you home by 10:07, that’s what I would have said.” There were no veiled threats except for the occasional spanking that never occurred. He didn’t have to spank me. The thought of it looming was enough for me to nip any behavior or action in the bud before it ever happened. Punishment was 42 June 2022
usually in the form of a good tongue lashing, but it was quick and precise. Dad’s point was succinct. Everyone knew where they stood and we moved on after. The only rule real you needed to know was this: Dad was in charge. His roof, his rules. God only knows how he survived my teenage years. That’s probably why he set another rule. “When you’re 18, my job is done” We didn’t have to leave the house, but trust me. There were so many rules, personally speaking, I couldn’t wait to get out. I was actually 19 when I flew the nest. I knew I had to be ready for the world because of Dad’s other rule. “There isn’t a swinging door. Once you leave, you can’t keep coming back.” He and Mom only had to bend that rule for me twice. Once for a brief stint when I was 23 and in between roommates/apartments, and the next time when I was waiting to move into my new condo at 30. Both times, the rules remained the same except for the curfew which he had lightened up on. In reality, he talked a big game, but his hard exterior was a cover for the soft, caring person he was. Up until the day he died, he was a dad through and through. Whatever I needed, whenever I needed it, he was there. Be it for gas money, how to fix a leaky toilet, or closest dump sites, he was my go-to guy. Even after I got married, his job may have gotten easier, but he never let go of the reins fully. He was tough, but never mean. He was intimidating, but never cruel. He was strict, but never harsh. He was respectful always, and respected immensely. He was also incredibly generous, kind, and mannered. A Southern gentleman to the core. I rarely ever heard Dad say a curse word or speak ill
of anyone. It wasn’t his nature. He rarely got riled up or threw a fit if things didn’t go his way which I’m sure was often the case. “No use getting upset about it,” as he’d often say. I never heard Dad raise his voice to anyone. Not to Mom or any of us kids, even when he was mad. He didn’t have to. The tone of his voice said everything you needed to know. I still admire him for that. We didn’t have much growing up, but Dad made sure we had everything we needed: Respect, kindness, love, trust, loyalty, character, integrity, and an unsurpassed work ethic. So, I guess in retrospect, we had more than most. Not everyone is as blessed as me. Many of my friends lost their dad at an early age—college even earlier. Quite a few didn’t grow up with their dad because of divorce or other circumstances. My heart breaks for them as I can’t imagine growing up in a world that didn’t include my Dad. It’s hard enough that I’m faced with it at my age. To all the dads out there, Happy Father’s Day. If you’re like mine, you wear a lot of hats—coach, teacher, mentor, enforcer, chief cook, bottle washer, mechanic, etc. I hope you get to hang them all up for a day and relax. I hope mine is enjoying a big pancake breakfast and watching some baseball. About the Author: Lori is a local writer, painter and pet lover who loves to share her experiences and expertise with our readers. She has been penning a column for the OTC for almost 25 years. Please follow Lori online on Medium for more missives like this. Old Town Crier
ROAD TRIP | FROM PAGE 23
time the business began to dry up and it closed in 1978. The building underwent a $30 million renovation and reopened with 90 guest rooms in 2008. It is now operating under the Wyndham Luxury Hotel umbrella. We have stayed at the George Washington and it is very nice indeed. Today the Mall boasts over 35 restaurants in the downtown area as well as 75 stores and salons. Like Alexandria, the Loudoun Mall also has its own Farmers Market. Our time was limited since we had to make this an afternoon trip instead of an overnight stay, but the next time we are taking time to explore the highlights the town of Winchester has to offer and maybe even check out the market. The Loudoun Street Walking Mall in Winchester is a great day trip destination and has enough to occupy you if you choose to spend the night. In addition to the Mall there are a number of historical buildings, museums (Patsy Cline’s house is a museum here) and sights in the immediate area that we will save for another Road Trip column. Reaching Winchester is a nice drive once you clear all of the traffic lights on Route 50 in Chantilly. The drive is about 80 miles so it falls under the heading of "reasonable" with today's gas prices. One drawback is always the construction Route 66 and it wasn’t bad the day we went. We arrived in about an hour and a half!
Union Jack Pub & Restaurant.
Susan at El Centro saves the day! LET’S GET CRAFTY | FROM PAGE 36
GO FISH | FROM PAGE 41
XPEL Tec Gloves repel water, are stain resistant, control odors, and have 50+ UV protection. Best of all, the easy on gloves also come off easily! gillmarine. com
One outdoor sports shoe fits like a glove. Chaco Z/1 Classics create customized fits with Z-shaped straps crossing to wrap feet with 360-degree adjustment. Non-marking Luvseat footbed supports with all day comfort with traction on wet or dry surfaces. Podiatrist approved! Outdoors or indoors, on road or trail, socks or no socks, Chaco’s Z/1 is durable, constructed of only 8 component parts, and fully repairable for longterm value. For over 30 years, Chaco’s iconic styling has never gone out of style. Help Dad take a load off his feet. Chacos.com When dad camps out, some gear remains home. From setting up camp to pulling stakes, Gerber’s Stake Out camp 4.5 inch multi-tool makes happy campers. 11 tools serve distinct purposes for setting up camp, maintaining body and gear, cooking, and packing up. A carabiner clips to Dad’s belt, leaving more room for
Old Town Crier
fishing gear. Gerber’s legendary blade seals the deal. Backed by 75 years of being carried by soldiers, hunters, and tradesmen, show Dad your gift is as sharp as him. gerbergear.com Dads with bass boats know about the advantages of Power Pole Shallow Water anchors. Some are holding off on getting them because they might not fit into the garage. Not anymore! Hydrilla Gear ‘s Gen 2 tilt backet fits most boats and allows Power Poles to tilt forward, to fit under the garage door. The tilt brackets are high quality, powder coated, and fit perfectly. Dad can upgrade to 10 foot Power Poles too! Easy to install and deploy. hydrillagear.com Another great gift idea is a gift certificate for a bass fishing trip on the Potomac River. No phones, emails, texts or meetings, dad can bring his buddy or favorite offspring. But remember, if you give it, dad will use it, wear it, or eat it…make a good choice so he won’t think of you when he’s in line returning it! About the Author: Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac bass fishing guide. Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com. Book trips/purchase gift certificates: info@ NationalBass.com.
Jimmy Buffet visits here often. I ask if they have met. It ends up that they are friends. Eddie is a very cool guy. Since I want to explore rhums, I ask Eddie if he is a rhum drinker. He says not really, then takes me to the bar and gives me a great twenty-minute rhum recommendation. Eddie likes rhums from Martinique. He states that they are the best and that they drink like cognac. We taste a St. Clement Rhum Agricole XO, reviewed later. The St. Clement rhum we are tasting is an Agricole Rhum Martinique has its own distilling rules for Agricole, similar to the way the U.S. has bourbon laws and Germany has beer purity laws. This is the French West Indies signature rhum. Agricole rhum is made from sugar cane juice instead of using the more common molasses or sugar for the process. Sugar cane juice is easier to extract and gives you more rhum. An XO label means that the rhum is at least six years old and aged “in a combination of virgin and re-charred oak barrels.” I have one cube of ice in my rhum. Eddie drinks his neat. He tells me that they use St. Clement Rhums to make Ti’ Punch. “Really? That’s great!” I reply. “And just what is Ti’ Punch?“
Eddie chuckles and explains. Ti’ Punch is a French West Indies tradition. The name means “small punch.” It is traditionally made with a shot of rhum, a small amount of lime juice and zest, and sugar. Agricole rhum is traditionally used in Ti’ Punch. Other fruit juices can be added on top of the lime, and cane sugar is commonly used. It’s like a daiquiri, but much smaller. They considered it an aperitif. I try a couple during my visit. The drink is tasty but beware. Ti’ Punch is strong. You’re basically doing a shot of rhum with lime and sugar. I spent a week in St. Barths with my family. For me, it was a week of sipping fantastic rhums and smoking Cuban cigars. I know, life is rough. There are no words that can justly describe the beauty of this island. I strongly recommend that you visit this paradise. It is an extraordinary experience. About the Author: Timothy Long is an educator, writer, consultant, and experienced restaurant operator. Email: tlong@belmarinnovations.com. Instagram and Twitter: @wvutimmy. Blog: What is that fly doing in my soup? http://whatflyinmysoup.com June 2022 43
NATIONAL HARBOR
LANI GERING
Let’s Show the Fleet Street Pubs Some Love! Every month I am in search of subject matter for this space and some months it’s easier than others. I wanted to do more than just talk about the events and what goes on down on the waterfront and about the time I was about to head back in that direction I saw a Facebook post from one of our many favorite bartenders in the Harbor – Leah Sbitan. She indicated she was back behind the bar roving between Public House and Irish Whisper and picking up shifts at Brother Jimmy’s. A lot has happened since the last time I saw her – she got married, she had two cute kids and she’s embarked on a real estate career. Seeing that she had come back to her “roots” made me think about the last time I wrote anything about our friends on Fleet Street!
44 June 2022
When I lived in the Harbor I made my rounds to check on my “people” at least once a week and I always ended up at Public House as my last stop. They were the first business to advertise with the OTC when the Harbor was brand new so I have a soft spot in my heart for Jon Ball and his people – many of whom are still close friends. Much has changed since in the last 12 or so years. Public House, Cadillac Ranch, and Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar have held their ground, Harrington’s Irish Pub closed and the space was split into Brother Jimmy’s BBQ and Irish Whisper (all owned by the same parent company as Public House). Granite City Food & Brewery has come and gone and it is rumored that a Denver-based chain, Tom’s Watch Bar, will be opening in
that huge space this winter. The Brass Tap came on the scene a few years ago and is hanging in there. While the waterfront is the main draw in the Harbor with the Wheel, Carousel, the Big Screen on the Plaza, the Awakening, etc., Fleet Street has something it doesn’t – night life. The drinking and eating establishments on the waterside close at 10 pm while the Fleet Street joints stay open until Midnight or later. Fleet Street is also home to Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar. If you haven’t experienced an evening with these guys and dolls, you are really missing out. I maintain that if you are in a funk or just a bad mood in general and you take in a show at McKey’s and STILL feel the same way…you need professional help. You can’t help but leave this fun
place with a smile on your face. The musical talent and the showmanship of those who play is amazing. Fleet Street also has some very cool lights traversing across the street in the 100 block. The lights change colors and the colors change with the seasons. Red, White & Blue for the 4th of July, Red & Green for Christmas, etc. They make for a festive atmosphere for sure. Happy Hour(s) is alive and well on Fleet Street. Cadillac Ranch 3 pm – 7 pm, Brother Jimmy’s 3 pm – 6 pm, Public House 3 pm – 7 pm, Brass Tap 4 pm – 7 pm, Irish Whisper 4 pm – 6 pm. Next time you are in the Harbor, take a walk up from the waterfront to Fleet Street and show those people some love too!
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