Since 1988–Priceless
November 2013
From the Bay to the Blue Ridge
Dining Out
Personality Profile
O’CONNELLS
ALAN ETTER
Carrying on the Irish Tradition
Man about Town
Grapevine
Business Profile
Across the Bridge
WESTON FARM JOHN MARSHALL BANK NATIONAL HARBOR Gearing Up VINEYARD & WINERY The Fab Four of Old Town In the Heart of the Virginia Wine Trail
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for the Holidays
Landini’s
Setting TheZAGAT Standard In Old Town For2006 Over 37 Years AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
AND THE PAST 15 YEARS
115 King Street Old Town Alexandria 115 King Street 703-836-8404 Old Town Alexandria landinibrothers.com 703-836-8404
G - 11 pm N I RK :30
PArday 5 T E AL atu
V y&S da
Fri
Franco and Noe welcome you!
COME FOR THE FUN, STAY FOR THE FOOD! Old Town’s Favorite Raw Bar Featuring the Freshest Shellfish in Virginia Fish Market has continued to rise above the tide with its winning recipe for success–good, fresh seafood, excellent service and a great location. Such dedication to high quality and customer service has helped launch Fish Market as an Old Town landmark since 1976!
105 & 107 King St. Old Town Alexandria
703.836.5676 fishmarketva.com
Eat Fish, Drink Beer, Live Longer!
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office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month. Worth waiting for! PUBLISHER Bob Tagert MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Laura Parker DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, Va. 20175 CONTRIBUTORS Chris Anderson Vincent Arrunategui Peggie Arvidson Sarah Becker F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Doug Coleman Ashley Denham Busse Patricia Dashwood Jaime Elliott Doug Fabbioli Nicole Flanagan Lani Gering John Harrington Reed Hellman Elizabeth Jones Frances Killpatrick Miriam Kramer Genevieve LeFranc Julie Reardon Chester Simpson Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Neil Williamson Molly Winans Sylvia Winterling
36 A Bit of History After Hours Art & Antiques Behind the Bar Business Profile Caribbean Connection Chef’s Special Civil Discourse Dining Guide Dining Out Exploring Virginia Wines Financial Focus
8 11 15 32 5 18 33 9 28 30 38 6
First Blush Fitness From the Bay… From the Trainer Gallery Beat Go Fish Grapevine High Notes Mayflower Myths National Harbor On the Road Our Backyard
43 42 22 41 14 40 36 10 2 46 1 7
Personality Profile Pets of the Month Points on Pets Publisher’s Notes Road Trip Single Space Spiritual Renaissance The Last Word To the Blue Ridge Urban Garden Virginia Wine Trail Profiles
4 13 12 2 20 45 27 17 24 35 39
© 2013 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 selected Alexandria residents, hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Also distributed in the Annapolis, Fredericksburg, Blue Ridge and Washington, DC areas as well as St. John, USVI.
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On the road with OTC John Zoldak, Cheryl Ellsworth and Tom Pardini—all of Alexandria— consult the Old Town Crier while touring the Flame Towers in Baku, Azerbaijan. John, Cheryl and Tom were invited to Azerbaijan as part of an American delegation of observers to monitor that country’s presidential election. John and Cheryl are also the proud owners of Las Brisas Caribe in St. John, USVI. (see ad in Caribbean Connection, pg 19). If you would like to see your picture here, take the OTC with you on your next trip, snap a high resolution photo and send it along with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com.
November 2013 | 1
PUBLISHER’S NOTES BOB TAGERT
A
fter a relatively pleasant and perfect Summer, Fall weather came on strong at the end of October. As I am writing this at press time, the temps are supposed to rise back into the middle 60s next week. It will still be nice weather to take a Road Trip to Front Royal, Virginia. This time of year always brings change. Our friends, Caroline and Bill Ross, have finally fulfilled their dream and opened River Bend Bistro in Hollin Hall. We wish them every success. The recently renovated Old Town Theater, after a brief downtime for reorganization, will once again be lighting up the stage mid-month. Check out Lori Welch’s Single Space column as she moves into the realm of being engaged. John Marshall Bank will soon be opening their first office in Alexandria and you can read about their philosophy in Liz Jones’ Business Profile column. Meet Personality Profile Alan
Etter and get a taste of living on the water. After Gettysburg, the Union and Confederate armies are back in Virginia along the Rappahannock River. Doug Coleman reveals the action in both Virginia and Tennessee in Civil Discourse. Neil Williamson introduces us to Weston Farm Vineyard in this months Grapevine. November brings us Thanksgiving and there are many things to be thankful for. We hope you celebrate with loved ones near and far. Let’s not forget to honor our Veterans on their day this month as well. Happy Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving to you all!
MAYFLOWER MYTHS
“The reason that we have so many myths associated with Thanksgiving is that it is an invented tradition. It doesn’t originate in any one event. It is based on the New England puritan Thanksgiving, which is a religious Thanksgiving, and the traditional harvest celebrations of England and New England and maybe other ideas like commemorating the pilgrims. All of these have been gathered together and transformed into something different from the original parts.” James W. Baker, Senior Historian of Plymoth Plantation
Myth: The first Thanksgiving was in 1621 and
the pilgrims celebrated it every year thereafter.
Fact: The first feast wasn’t repeated, so it
wasn’t the beginning of a tradition. In fact, the colonists didn’t even call the day Thanksgiving. To them, a thanksgiving was a religious holiday in which they would go to church and thank God for a specific event, such as winning a battle. On such a religious day, the types of recreational activities that the pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians participated in during the 1621 harvest feast—dancing, singing secular songs, playing games—wouldn’t have been allowed. The feast was a secular celebration, so it never would have been considered a thanksgiving in the pilgrims’ minds.
Myth: The original Thanksgiving feast took 2 | November 2013
place on the fourth Thursday of November.
Fact: The original feast in 1621 occurred
sometime between September 21 and November 11. Unlike our modern holiday, it was three days long. The event was based on English harvest festivals, which traditionally occurred around the 29th of September. After that first harvest was completed by the Plymouth colonists, Gov. William Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving and prayer, shared by all the colonists and neighboring Indians. In 1623 a day of fasting and prayer during a period of drought was changed to one of thanksgiving because the rain came during the prayers. Gradually the custom prevailed in New England of annually MYTHS > PAGE 27
Old Town Crier
Laura Parker: OTC Social Media Maven
Shop Early. Ship Early. Old Town Pack & Ship Service, Inc.
Beginning in November, the Old Town Crier website will move to a new hosting platform. This transition will be accompanied by a new layout, site design, and additional features. To stay in touch with the Old Town Crier, simply follow the new online blog. Automatic email updates will be sent following any new posts or announcements “From the Bay to the Blue Ridge.” The new site will launch November 1. Laura Parker is a freelance writer, web designer, and advertising architect who has joined the Old Town Crier. She brings her expertise in revamping and maintaining our website as well as other aspects of our social media. For questions on the new Old Town Crier website changes or for help with literary or web needs, please feel free to contact Laura via email: parke425@gmail.com.
Stop by the real estate lounge & design center to find out why @home real estate was awarded RISING STAR by the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.
“
“
Laura and Keppy, her dog formerly known as Prince photo: George Mucibabici
• In-house packing • Wooden crates for delicate items • Small and large items • Shipment anywhere using UPS, FedEx and others • Free pickup service in Old Town Alexandria
Buying, Selling, Renting? Make yourself @home!
RISING STAR ALEXANDRIA
822 King Street Old Town Alexandria 703.549.7167 [fax] 703.549.7168 www.vatopservices.com
111 south alfred street | 703.791.1167 www.AtHomeDCmetro.com
Old Town Farmers Market
Market Square • 301 King St. Sat. 5:30 - 11 a.m. year round free parking in Market Square garage during market hours People who come to Alexandria on Saturday mornings find themselves in a busy plaza where local farmers and artists have been selling their products since 1753. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest continually operating farmers markets, serving as a primary source of meat, dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables for Alexandrians. George Washington sent his produce from Mount
Vernon to be sold here. Today, the market offers folks a way to reconnect to the past, while participating in an ongoing local and national tradition.
Del Ray Farmers Market
Corner of East Oxford & Mount Vernon avenues Sat. 8 a.m. - Noon year round
The Del Ray Market is producer grown, with fresh vegetables and fruits in season. All year round this market offers meats, eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, Amish cheese, yogurt, bakery goods, eggs, jams and jellies, fancy nuts and bakery goods.
Local Farmers Markets
Since 1988–Priceless
From the Bay to the Blue
Ridge
June 2013
Cicada The 17-Year Locust Is Back!
Personality Profile
MILT & JON PETERSON
The Men Behind National Harbor Business Profile
DISCOVERSEA SHIPWRECK MUSEUM Hidden Treasures on Fenwick Island, DE Grapevine
LOVINGSTON VINEYARD & WINERY VA Gem A Nelson County,
Road Trip
HAMPTON & VIRGINIA BEACH, VA Fun in the Sun!
Special Feature
get your ! PARKER’S CREEK Right
Something Gone in Calvert County, MD
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monthly fix
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November 2013 | 3
Personality profile SYLVIA WINTERLING
D
o you know someone who moves through life with ease, transitioning from one career to another? Someone who has varied interests and excels at all of them? Someone who is musically gifted and loves entertaining? Someone who lives full time on a boat? If not, then you need to meet Alan Etter, news anchor for WTOP Radio in Washington, DC. It was during his high school years in Richlands, Virginia that Alan discovered his love of and talent for music. Buying a Sears guitar and a Mel Bay music book with money he earned from mowing lawns he taught himself to play. His plan was to become a professional musician. And it appeared that he was on target in the early 1980s when he joined a four-man band that toured as the opening act for ZZ Top, Jefferson Starship and the Allman Brothers, among others. As probably many mothers of musicians think, Alan’s mother doubted the suitability of her son making a living in a traveling band. Even though the band was successful and Alan loved the music, he eventually accepted the counsel of his mother and moved to Richmond to attend Virginia Commonwealth University. Alan’s ability to undertake multiple tasks and excel in each became apparent during college as he completed his four-year journalism degree in two and a half years, while volunteering as a firefighter for Henrico County and working full time as a news reporter and anchor for WRVA Radio in Richmond. College years set the stage for his transition to Washington, DC in 1990 where he has made his mark in the community working in public information with the District of Columbia Fire Department, public relations for the former Greater Southeast Hospital, vice president for public relations at the University of the District of Columbia and currently reporter and anchor for WTOP Radio. His love of firefighting and skill in 4 | November 2013
He loves the community at the marina, saying everyone knows each other and they depend on one another. So far the only negative he’s found living on a boat is that even with heaters the winter can be a little daunting. But watching the sunrises with a cup of coffee or a sunset with a glass of wine from the deck of his boat make any complaints disappear. Currently Alan is back working in journalism as a reporter and anchor for WTOP Radio. His interest and knowledge of a variety of topics serves him well as just in the last month he has reported on the reduction of federal tax credits, use of Metro cards, shopping on Black Friday, reaction of veterans on the government shutdown, followup on the Capitol Hill shooting, how studying lobsters may lead to
Alan Etter Man about town journalism was combined while serving as the Public Information Officer for the District of Columbia Fire Department from 2001 to 2009. He says it was a favorite time in his life, hanging around firehouses and sharing stories with the public about fire department personnel who risk their lives daily. His commitment to telling stories about emergency personnel took a very dramatic turn during the events of September 11, 2001. Alan was returning downtown after taking his children to school in Charles County, when he noticed a plane flying very low over the Potomac River. He had already heard on his radio about the planes crashing into the World Trade Center towers, but didn’t immediately connect this low flying plane to that event. However, by the time he had reached the Douglas Bridge he could see the smoke rising above the Pentagon and realized what had occurred. Driving straight to the Pentagon he was one of the early witness’s to the carnage and destruction that resulted from the plane crashing into the building. Arlington County took the
lead that day on rescue operations but they did not have a public relations officer, so Alan was drafted to fill that role and spent several days on site. He says his most memorable moment and one that haunts him to today was meeting a man in the parking lot of the Pentagon the next day who told Alan he was waiting for the fire fighters and emergency responders to find his wife since she hadn’t returned home from work the previous day. Alan immediately knew that if his wife had been alive she would have already been located and reunited with her husband. He says to this day he has never learned the man’s name but sees his face and the pain he was enduring every day. It was during his time with the fire department that Alan chose to live on a boat. He wanted to be in a central location in order to get to emergency sites quickly. He had a friend who owned a boat and it seemed like an enjoyable way of life. In spite of a waiting list at the Gangplank Marina, he was able to secure a slip there and found a forty five foot powerboat from a dealer in Chestertown, Maryland.
ways to prolong human life and an analysis of football players with concussions. He claims he’s just nosy but he has a real interest in people and the events that shape their lives and he’s good at telling those stories. For the past several years he has also found time for his early love; music. Along with Jodie Knox, a fellow boat resident in the marina and member of the Coast Guard, he has formed a twoman band called the Mighty Seacocks. He says they have a repertoire of about three hundred songs and will play anything but like country and blues. They perform almost every week and love to entertain at fire and police department events. Alan is one of those people who make life appear easy and enjoyable. He has made his mark as a volunteer firefighter, public information officer and news reporter and anchor gaining respect and admiration from colleagues. He lives a unique life style on a boat creating envy among many friends. And he provides fun and entertainment for all who hear The Mighty Seacocks. Old Town Crier
business profile ELIZABETH jones
Banking Is Not Rocket Science But true customer service is an art form
B
anking might seem like rocket science to some, but I couldn’t agree more with Ted Johnson, Senior Vice President at John Marshall Bank, that true customer service is an art form. Ted was just one of the members of the executive team I was fortunate enough to learn about and feature in this month’s business profile. Ted Johnson, Pam DeCandio, Charlie Collum, and Erik Dorn are who I would like to introduce to you as Alexandria’s premier banking dream team. This group, who has over 108 combined years of banking experience under their belt, is preparing for the grand opening of their Alexandria branch located at 700 South Washington Street in Old Town Alexandria, this November. After getting to know the work philosophy of this group I can honestly say that I will be changing from my big-name bank to one where service excellence and customer experience is number one on the list. (And one where they don’t charge you for using your own money, and then forget to send you your new debit card. Can you tell I am bitter about that one?) If you are like me, and are sick of being sold the hot deal of the month when you are seeking real banking support, then read on because there is an alternative. Old Town Crier
left to right: Ted Johnson, Charlie Collum, Pam DeCandio and Erik Dorn
In preparation for the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Alexandria branch opening, I wanted to take some time to help you get to know who you will be working with, assuming you decide that you are ready to make the switch from the automated phone service to real customer service. Every member of this group has a unique story and work philosophy that they bring to the table. They also have a great deal in common. Namely, they love what they do, working with each other, and living and working in Alexandria. Ted and Pam go back to their Virginia Commerce Bank days, where they competed against Erik and Charlie at Burke & Herbert. Charlie and Erik were born and raised in Alexandria and still call it home. With Pam living in Del Ray, and this team’s collective knowledge of the community, it is safe to say they know what we customers are looking for in a bank. They are working towards the same goals, and appreciate the same things we love about the great city of Alexandria. Determined and honored to stay involved in the community, they are constantly working on different events to benefit the area including an annual golf tournament to benefit charities and fundraising support to the Alexandria Police Foundation. Determined to go above and beyond the call of duty to satisfy their
customers, they are big believers in the “sundown rule” – return all calls and emails the same day even if the answer is that you are still working on a solution. In addition to the service, what sets John Marshall Bank apart from the rest is their ability to listen and get to know your needs. This group likes to pay-it-forward. (I wish I could say that was a clever banking pun.) Perhaps Pam said it best; ”I feel strongly that if I do my best to take care of people, they will feel comfortable giving me their business and referring their friends, family members and business associates. Many banks have strong sales cultures. What has worked best for me is taking care of people, recommending what’s best for their situation, and not selling them the product of the month.” It is their priority to find a solution for you, even if it means you’ll find what you need at another bank. Because of this foundation of service built on honesty and trust, customers at John Marshall Bank are as loyal as they come. If you don’t want to take my word for it, just listen to word on the streets. Just recently, John Marshall Bank was reported in the Washington Business Journal to be among the top best-performing banks in the United States, ranking in at #27 in the country. Only one other bank in the area ranked in this elite group,
a Bethesda-based bank that came in at #24. In addition, John Marshall Bank walked away with the Best Large Business Award at the Alexandria Chamber’s Business Award reception in October. Needless to say, they have some reasons to celebrate! For those of you still looking to be convinced, I’ll sum it up. With the experience these four bankers bring to the table, there are very few challenges in the marketplace they have yet to experience. Most banks think that their competition is the challenge. Rather, because Pam, Erik, Charlie, and Ted are so involved in the Alexandria community and invested in their relationships, they have the luxury of letting the other banks focus on each other while they concentrate on the task at hand - serving their customers. Now this is a business model that makes sense to me. So where is John Marshall Bank going to be in the future? In addition to the opening of their new Alexandria branch on South Washington Street, they will be continuing to grow into the premier community bank in the Washington Metropolitan region. Why? Their philosophy is service first, competitive products fairly-priced, and conservative lending to ensure the safety and soundness of their bank. After all, it’s not rocket science.
November 2013 | 5
FINANCIAL FOCUS carl m.trevisan, cfp© & stephen m. bearce
Year End Planning to Lower Your Tax Bill
A
s the end of the year draws near, the last thing anyone wants to think about is taxes. But if you are looking for ways to minimize your tax bill, there’s no better time for tax planning than before year-end. That’s because there are a number of tax-smart strategies you can implement now that will reduce your tax bill come April 15. And, with the higher rates put in place with the passage of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, being tax efficient is more important than ever.
Put Losses to Work
If you expect to realize either short- or long-term capital gains, the IRS allows you to offset these gains with capital losses. Short-term gains (gains on assets held less than a year) are taxed at ordinary rates, which range from 10% to 39.6%, and can be offset with short-term losses. Long-term gains (gains on assets held longer than a
year) are taxed at a top rate of 20% and can be reduced by long-term capital losses.1 To the extent that losses exceed gains, you can deduct up to $3,000 in capital losses against ordinary income on that year’s tax return and carry forward any unused losses for future years. Given these rules, there are several actions you should consider: • Avoid short-term gains when possible, as these are taxed at higher ordinary rates. Unless you have shortterm losses to offset them, try holding the assets for at least one year. • Take a good look at your portfolio before year-end and estimate your gains and losses. Some investments, such as mutual funds, incur trading gains or losses that must be reported on your tax return and are difficult to predict. But most capital gains and losses will be triggered by the sale of the asset, which you usually
Carter & Coleman Attorneys at Law
Serving Virginia, maryland and DC for over 20 years 703. 739. 4200 cartercoleman.com 602 Cameron Street alexandria, Va 22314
control. Are there some winners that have enjoyed a run and are ripe for selling? Are there losers you would be better off liquidating? The important point is to cover as much of the gains with losses as you can, thereby minimizing your capital gains tax. • Consider taking losses before gains, since unused losses may be carried forward for use in future years, while gains must be taken in the year they are realized.
Unearned Income Tax
A new 3.8% tax on "unearned" income went into effect in 2013, effectively increasing the top rate on most long-term capital gains to 23.8%. The tax applies to "net investment income," which includes interest, dividends, royalties, annuities, rents, and other passive activity income, among other items. Importantly, net investment income does not include distributions from IRAs or qualified retirement plans, annuity payouts, or income from tax-exempt municipal bonds. In general, the new tax applies to single taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $200,000 or more and to those who are married and filing jointly with a MAGI of $250,000 or more.
What’s to Come?
While there are currently no major changes in federal tax rules planned for 2014
that have been approved by Congress, there are many steps you can take today to help lighten your tax burden. Work with a financial professional and tax advisor to see what you can do now to reduce your tax bill in April. This communication is not intended to be tax advice and should not be treated as such. Each individual’s tax situation is different. You should contact your tax professional to discuss your personal situation. Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications or its sources, neither S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2013 S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications. All rights reserved. This
column is provided through the Financial Planning Association, the membership organization for the financial planning community, and is brought to you by Carl M. Trevisan, a local member of FPA and Stephen M. Bearce. McLaughlin Ryder Investments, Inc. and McLaughlin Ryder Advisory Services, LLC and their employees are not in the business of providing tax or legal advice. These materials and any tax-related statements are not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used or relied upon, by any such taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties. Taxbased statements, if any, may have been written in connection with the promotion or marketing of the transaction (s) or matter(s) addressed by these materials, to the extent allowed by applicable law. Any such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. Securities offered by McLaughlin Ryder Investments, Inc. and investment advisory services offered by McLaughlin Ryder Advisory Services, LLC.
Source/Disclaimer: 1
6 | November 2013
“
Consider taking losses before gains, since unused losses may be carried forward for use in future years, while gains must be taken in the year they are realized.
Under certain circumstances, the IRS permits you to offset long-term gains with net short-term capital losses. See IRS Publication 550 Investment Income and Expenses: www.irs.gov/publications/p550/
Old Town Crier
OUR BACKYARD GENEVIEVE LEFRANC
Glynn Jones Celebrates 10 Years
C
o-owners and business partners Tony Hughes and Glynn Jones met in Manchester, England more than thirty years ago. Tony claims that Glynn, a hairdressing genius educated by Vidal Sassoon, is the reason their now multimillion dollar salons are so successful, “Without his talent it wouldn’t have happened.” Glynn says that Tony, a selftaught, self-made business whiz, has a keen sense of marketing and managerial skills that accounts for their accomplishments. It’s the perfect ironic balance for the business: Tony, the outgoing and friendly joker, remains behind the scenes on the business end, while Glynn, the shy, reserved head stylist and creative director, is on the floor cutting hair and representing the name. “We discuss everything and have total, mutual trust,” says Tony. They have maintained a close friendship, an effective business model, and enormous professional success ever since. There’s an air of British sophistication and luxury combined with an American friendliness, and the salons are bringing an unexpected approach and European flair to hair design in the DC Metro area. Just like their motto says, “Discover how we're a little Brit different from the rest.” “When we first opened everyone thought we were nuts, but it was that drive, ambition, and passion for what you do that took us from having one business owner, one stylist, and a girl answering the phone, to ten years later having 50 employees and three salons.” It is this tremendous
Old Town Crier
accomplishment they are celebrating this year, ten years after their first salon in Old Town opened for business. Serving as the mother ship is the recently remodeled Old Town Alexandria flagship Glynn Jones Salon, a posh oasis of luxury and industry expertise. The trendy salon was originally a risky endeavor that ended up paying off. “The vibe wasn’t typical to the conservative area, and we took a risk opening a salon that wasn’t traditionally ‘Old Town.’ We wondered if we could really pull this off and if customers would embrace it,” says Tony. With 47 salons in a one and a half mile radius, there is a lot of competition, but the Glynn Jones name steadily grew from the beginning. “So we opened and thought ‘now what do we do?’ The first year was a challenge, but we eventually saw a slow but progressive climb, and we just gathered momentum and popularity through word of mouth and referrals, and marketing.” Customers began to embrace the modern salon with its dance music energetically blasting and pop music videos playing on the televisions. This upscale New York City vibe proved to be a welcome change for the quiet community. In a short time the oncesmall space and clientele demanded expansion. After adding nail services along with hair treatments, spray tans, threading, waxing, and facials, they continued to expand, knocking out walls and moving into the second floor to accommodate the demand. They took a gamble and it paid off, and the two watched their business grow. Unquestionably the pillar for success for Hughes and
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle
Edina, the salon mascot
Jones is their unwavering commitment to excellent customer service—positive experiences and first impressions are paramount to the owners. “The most important thing we strive for is a strong customer service presence in all three of our salons,” says Tony. Five years ago the two opened their second salon in Dupont Circle. While it still offers the same professionalism and quality work as its namesake, the Dupont location has a youthful, cool vibe thanks to its eclectic, hip staff. Each stylist receives extensive, personal training by Glynn himself to ensure consistent, high quality service for every customer. It’s become so popular and successful that it has gone from being open five days a week to seven to meet the demand. Turning one year old in July, the baby of the franchise is Salon DNA, located on the second floor of Glynn Jones Salon Old Town. Serving as their “little green contribution,” this salon offers a totally different concept than anywhere else in the neighborhood and accommodates a more ecoconscious clientele. Tony and Glynn decided to approach their second business as a spinoff, as well as an opportunity to do something different. DNA is an eco-friendly salon, but still provides the same wealth of services and expertise as their
other salons. “It’s an experiment that has proved wildly successful for us,” says Tony. When asked what’s next for their ever-expanding hairdressing empire, Tony and Glynn are content to keep things as they are for now.
With what they’ve built over this past decade, they wonder if they even need to get bigger and risk losing quality control. “We’re very happy with three salons, and constantly striving to keep the customer service level at its peak is enough of a challenge. I don’t want to lose the standard of quality if we ever choose to expand. No matter how well we’re doing, I care about quality because reputation is everything to us.” Publisher’s note: This piece is, in part, from an original article by First Blush columnist Genevieve LeFranc
november specials with natalie+ella natalie
color+haircut $100 ella
partial highlight+ haircut $140
720 king street old town alexandria 703.549.4000 November 2013 | 7
a bit of history sarah becker
The JFK Assassination
Norman Rockwell’s 1960 portrait of John F. Kennedy
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resident John F. Kennedy—Pulitizerprize winning author, US Senator (D-MA), and America’s 35th President—was elected to office in November 1960. At age 43 Kennedy was the youngest President ever elected; also the first Roman Catholic. He argued separation of church and state, eschewed McCarthyism, and defeated Richard M. Nixon. Kennedy, a pragmatic liberal, also beat conservative US Senator Harry F. Byrd, Sr. (D-VA). Like Presidents Truman and Eisenhower before, 8 | November 2013
Kennedy understood the geopolitical changes associated with World War II. Communism was now the enemy and candidate Kennedy, in 1960, called for a New Frontier: “We stand for freedom.” “Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans—born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage—and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this Nation has always been committed,” President Kennedy said on January 20, 1961. As President, Kennedy challenged the Soviets in Cuba; then to a space race. “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and success of liberty,” Kennedy exclaimed. Kennedy witnessed the east-west construction of Germany’s Berlin Wall; embraced an emerging Third World and established The Peace Corps. “To those new States whom we welcome to the ranks of the free, we pledge our word that one form of colonial control shall not have passed away merely to be replaced by a far more iron tyranny,” Kennedy continued. President Kennedy signed the women’s Equal Pay Act and the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. “Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms—and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the control of all nations,” Kennedy declared. Kennedy commemorated the Civil War centennial and welcomed leaders of the Negro March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. “The main target of the demonstration was Congress, where committees are now considering the Administration’s civil rights bill,” The New York Times reported. “The legislation faces a filibuster by Southerners.” “With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love,” Kennedy concluded. Then, tragically, on November 22, 1963—50 years ago—an assassin shot President John F. Kennedy dead. “He died of a wound in the brain caused by a rifle bullet,” The New York Times reported. Kennedy was the fourth US President to succumb to such wounds. Born in 1917, he was killed in his prime.
President Kennedy inspired Americans, especially younger voters. His mantra: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country. Ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.” The Newseum remembers Camelot, as the Kennedy era was known, with two JFK exhibits and an original film. The JFK exhibit—Creating Camelot: The Kennedy Photography of Jacques Lowe; Three Shots Were Fired, and A Thousand Days—runs through January 5, 2014. The Newseum is located in the District of Columbia, open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and closed on Thanksgiving Day. The past was Kennedy’s prologue. His past included wealth: Kennedy received a $1 million trust fund from his father in 1938. Also education: He studied at the London School of Economics in 1935, and graduated cum laude from Harvard University in 1940. Kennedy also published his first book, While England Slept, in 1940 at age 23. Kennedy criticized “England’s failure to increase defense spending in response to the rise of Nazism.” Time and Life publisher Henry R. Luce praised his effort. Interviewers described young Kennedy as “clear-headed, realistic [and] unhysterical.” President Kennedy’s favorite book: Barbara Tuchman’s 1962 Guns of August. Kennedy was the first US President to serve in the Navy. In 1943 he received the Navy and Marine Corps medal for his conduct while commander of the PT-109, a boat sunk in the Pacific by the Japanese. Again injured, Lt. Kennedy left the Navy in 1944 and joined Hearst newspapers. As a reporter, he walked the Berlin ruins with General Dwight D. Eisenhower the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe in 1945. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum recently published Prelude to Leadership: The [1945] PostWar Diary of John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy, like Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson, belonged to the American Historical Association. Historical writing, however, was not the career he sought. Kennedy’s interest in politics began in the 1930s. “Not in the sense of sort of being emotionally stirred about great issues, but really, just about the whole of my father’s interest in politics, in the [Franklin D.] Roosevelt Administration,” Kennedy A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 13
Old Town Crier
civil DISCOURSE DOUG COLEMAN
Civil War, November 1863
Bristoe Station and the Mine Run Campaign; Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge
F
ollowing Gettysburg, both armies resumed their old positions along the Rappahannock. Criticized for not aggressively pursuing Lee during his retreat from Gettysburg and for generalized inactivity thereafter, Meade embarks on a series of maneuvers and inconclusive skirmishes in September, then begins to settle into winter quarters. Lee intends to surprise Meade with a wide flanking maneuver, but Federal signalmen have broken the Confederate semaphore code and warn that Lee is on the move. Meade pulls his army back across the Rappahannock into Fauquier County. By October 13, Lee is in Warrenton, with his goal to get behind Meade and engage him before the Yankees can find refuge behind the strong fortifications surrounding Centreville. The Confederates are moving fast and Stuart’s cavalry catches up with the Federal Second Corps near Auburn on the morning of October 14. Stuart’s horse artillery startles the Yankees, who as usual underrate their opponents’ ability to cover distance fast. Stuart’s cavalry and Ewell’s infantry follow on the shelling, dislodging the Federal Second Corps. All signs are that the Yankees are retreating toward Centreville as fast as their feet can take them. Unfortunately for the Confederates, the weary Second Corps halts behind the Orange & Alexandria Railroad near Bristoe Station; the railway embankments not only conceal the Federals, but make a fine fortification to fight behind. A.P. Hill is in a hurry when he reaches Bristoe and finds the Federal Third and Fifth Corps crossing Broad Run. Sensing opportunity, Hill throws Heth’s division forward without taking time to reconnoiter. As the advance elements of Heth’s force fall upon the Yankees trapped behind Broad Run, they draw fire from their Old Town Crier
flank. Moving for the shelter of the railway embankment, they blunder straight into the Second Corps, who rise up behind their cover and deliver a thunderous volley described as “a roar from the portals of Hell.” Their fire is murderous. Surviving Confederates run for the shelter of a nearby wood; 600 are pinned down and captured. Lee’s pursuit grinds to a halt and Meade reaches the safety of his Centreville entrenchments. The Confederates lose about 1400 men, plus a battery of six guns. Federal losses were about 540. Meade’s reputation continues to suffer; though he saved his army by beating Lee to Centreville, it was clear from his “retrograde maneuvers” that he was no match for Lee. Hill’s failure to reconnoiter before ordering the attack damages his reputation as well, drawing censure from Jeff Davis and Lee. Surveying the dead, a disgusted Lee cuts short Hill’s explanation with the remark: “Well, well, General, bury these poor men, and let us say no more about it.” Though the Confederates hold the field, this is a defeat. Lee’s casualties are high and Meade gets away. Lee knows better than to assault prepared works at Centreville. He retires to Orange County, wrecking the Orange & Alexandria railway as he goes. When Meade emerges, he will not have a railroad to supply him for a good while. Meade attempts to salvage his reputation in November, planning a bold strike with his entire army through the Wilderness. Lee’s 48,000 men are camped below the Rapidan, on a line parallel to the river nearly thirty miles long. Meade’s object is to strike Lee’s right flank, anchored along
Above: Bristoe Campaign from the pages of Harpers Weekly Left: Missionary Ridge, print by Kurz & Allison
Mine Run in Orange County, and roll up the flank before the more distant elements at Orange Court House can come to the rescue. Meade moves out on November 25th with 81,000 men, sweeping around Stuart’s cavalry screen to gain surprise. However, Meade’s artillery has difficulty fording the Rapidan, losing momentum and eventually surprise. Lee dispatches Early east along the Orange Turnpike to meet the advance of French’s Third Corps. They make contact at Payne’s Farm on November 27; the Federals attack twice and the Confederates counterattack – neither side gains much advantage in this broken and wooded terrain.
Lee pulls back to his entrenchments behind Mine Run. On November 28, Meade advances upon this line with the intent of storming the trenches. The assault opens with a furious artillery barrage, but the Confederates shelter in their earthworks and stay put. Federal veterans know the consequences of assaulting Lee behind breastworks from Fredericksburg. Meade spares his troops needless butchery. Meade’s replacement will have to learn this lesson next summer at Cold Harbor. Nonetheless, this campaign costs the Union about 1300 casualties and the Confederacy about 700. Informed by cavalry commander Wade Hampton that Meade’s flank is vulnerable, Lee plans his own assault for December 2. But Meade slips away the night before, just as Hooker had at Chancellorsville in May. Lee laments: “I am too old to command this army. We never should have permitted those CIVIL DISCOURSE > PAGE 11
November 2013 | 9
HIGH NOTES CHRIS ANDERSON
Pearl & Paul Pearl Jam: Lightning Bolt
It’s always an achievement for a band to reach its tenth album, and even more of a feat when that band is virtually unscathed. After 22 years, the only lineup changes Pearl Jam has undergone have been at the drum throne and even that has remained constant for fifteen years. No, the most remarkable aspect of Pearl Jam’s tenth album is that it is so good. They have never made a bad album, sure, but it still feels like they have reached a wondrous new plateau with an album that lives up to its name and continues to deliver with each and every spin. Kicking off with “Getaway,” the band quickly settles into a slippery groove with a great melodic sense and guitars that deliver a perfect crunch and one of oh so many powerful choruses on this album. From there the Jammers evoke Black Flag for the charging lead single, “Mind Your Manners,” one of the hardest and heaviest tracks they’ve cut in a long time. “My Father’s Son” is another great tune centered around a particularly aggressive Jeff Ament bass figure and some wicked atmospheric guitar chimes. “Sirens” spins the black circle into a completely different direction with perhaps Pearl Jam’s best mid-tempo number since “Elderly Woman Behind The Counter In A Small Town.” The title track features a couple of U2isms and a good bit of drama before exploding into a groove that is classic Pearl Jam. From there, they bust into one of the
high water mark that is “Infallible,” a song that is sure to be a single and a major hit. A killer groove and an even better chorus make this a perfect lateperiod anthem. They get dark with “Pendulum”, a slow, ethereal number that is very different from what you would expect, and expand upon an REM-esque feel on the wildly varied “Swallowed Whole.” Further on, they get as close to guttural Texas blues as they’ve ever gotten with the playful “Let The Records Play” and “Sleeping By Myself ” is a sweet little acousticbased number that sounds like a leftover from Eddie Vedder’s solo work. “Yellow Moon” is another slow, dramatic number that drives home the band’s claims that Pink Floyd was a major influence on this album. The ascending figure that closes out the back half of this song is one of the most uplifting pieces of music I’ve heard all year. Closing out the album is the acoustic “Future Days,” that perfect sort of endgame where you can actually hear the credits rolling. Not that I would ever suspect it as such but if this were to somehow become the final Pearl Jam album, this would be the perfect song to go out on. Absolutely stunning. Way back in the beginning, it was pretty clear that Pearl Jam was one of those bands that was in it for the long haul. Fortunately, they show no signs of ending anytime soon. With an album as good as this, they’d better not. Lightning Bolt just proves that
after 22 years, they’ve still got it and aren’t afraid to flaunt it.
Paul McCartney: New
Speaking of artists who are in it for the long haul… Paul McCartney could have easily laid down his bass after the Beatles split and never played another note and he would still be Sir Macca. However, he kept trucking along, sometimes releasing stellar albums, sometimes not so. Fortunately, Paul’s 24th post-Beatles album, New, easily falls into the former category. Working with four distinct producers (Ethan Johns, Giles Martin, Mark Ronson, and Paul Epworth), McCartney delivers one of his best-ever solo albums. When you release an album so late in your career and call it “New,” you’d better be able to back it up. And he does. Kicking off with the rockin’ “Save Us,” Paul displays an energy and urgency that is rarely found in a septuagenarian, especially one who has long since had anything to prove. “Alligator” has a swingin’ vibe to it with a slant that reminds me of Ray Davies. The album takes a silly turn with “On My Way To Work” but then bounces right back with the modern classic, “Queenie Eye,” a song that could make you think that the Beatles never really ended. Speaking of the Beatles, Paul gets sentimental on the beautiful acoustic “Early Days,” reminiscing about his formative years with John Lennon, getting their start in late-50s Liverpool. The biggest highlight of this
album is the title track, another classic McCartney bouncer that has a distinct post-Pepper vibe and only suffers from being a bit short (seriously, I could listen to this song all day). From there, Paul dives into spooky electronica on “Appreciate,” a song that sounds similar to his work under the pseudonym, The Fireman. “Everybody Out There” features one of the best choruses of any McCartney song, ever, while “Hosanna” sounds like something that would have been found on one of his early solo albums. “I Can Bet” has a bit of a disco groove that is saved by the fact that it’s a decent song. “Looking At Her” is a bit of a strange song that mixes contemporary feels with a classic Paul vibe. Closing out the main album, “Road” is another odd one that features some wild production flourishes. As a closer, it is a bit subdued. Fortunately, for those who get the deluxe edition, “Turned Out” is a great pop song that probably should have been a single, and “Get Me Out Of Here” is a fun, bluesy number that had to be a hoot to record, and the hidden track, “Scared,” is one of Paul’s great piano numbers, ala “Fool On The Hill.” Who knows how much longer Paul will continue to make records. Most of his contemporaries have long since given up on new music, winding out their careers trodding out the same old hits. This album proves that Paul still has so much left in him. Truly, a treasure.
Shout Out to Local Musicians! Submit your CD for possible mention in an upcoming Old Town Crier High Notes column Send your latest accomplishment(s) with contact information to: Old Town Crier Regional Magazine Attn: High Notes 112 South Patrick Street • Alexandria, VA 22314
10 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
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TheOldTownTheater.com CIVIL DISCOURSE FROM PAGE 9
people to get away.” The Mine Run campaign concludes major fighting in the East for 1863. Both armies retire into their respective winter camps. In Tennessee, Sam Grant’s star continues to rise. Grant comes to Chattanooga in October to reinforce the besieged Rosecrans, who is promptly relieved of command and sent home in disgrace. On November 24, Grant drives Bragg back at Lookout Mountain. Bragg must either fight or abandon the siege. The next day, Bragg makes his stand behind his entrenchments on Missionary Ridge, overlooking Chattanooga. Thomas’ veterans are told to take the rifle pits at the foot of the ridge and then wait for further orders. They succeed, but disobey their orders and press the assault straight up the ridge. The Federals are briefly halted by stiff fire from above, but push Old Town Crier
forward to shelter under the crest of the ridge. Had the Confederates sited their line on the military crest versus the actual crest, this blind spot would not have existed and they would have been able to sweep the entire slope. The Yankees rise up out of this sanctuary and push Bragg’s men off the ridge. The siege of Chattanooga is broken and the town will become a major supply center for Grant in the coming Georgia campaign. The Union has lost about 6000, the Confederacy at least 7000. Demoralized, Bragg’s army falls back toward Chickamauga. Southern fortunes in the West are in freefall. Sources: Harper’s History of the Rebellion. The Mine Run Campaign, http://www.civilwar. org/battlefields/minerun/article/the-mine-runcampaign.htm. Jim Camp, A Roar from the Portals of Hell November 2013 | 11
POINTS ON PETS ASHLEY DENHAM BUSSE
King Street Cats Adoption Calendar NOVEMBER 2013 For details & MORE INFO website: www.kingstreetcats.org email: contact@kingstreetcats.org King Street Cats is looking for foster homes! You provide the spare room and TLC and we provide food, litter and all vetting. Please email for our Kitten Fostering FAQ at: contact@kingstreetcats.org King Street Cats 25 Dove Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Every Saturday & Sunday 1:30–4:30 pm Pro Feed Bradlee Shopping Center 3690 King Street Alexandria, VA 22302 Every Saturday & Sunday 1–4 pm PETCO UNLEASHED AT PENTAGON ROW 1101 S. Joyce Street Arlington, VA 22202 Saturday, November 2 Saturday, November 16 1–4 pm DOGMA 2772 S. Arlington Mill Drive Arlington, VA 22206 Sunday, November 10 1–4 pm Petsmart Willston Shopping Center 6100 Arlington Blvd Falls Church, VA 22044 Sunday, November17 Sunday, November24 1–4 pm
12 | November 2013
Thinking Outside the Cat-and-Dog Box
M
y six-year-old daughter has recently been asking for a pet hamster, after meeting one at a local Blessing of the Pets a couple of weeks ago. I had to admit, the hamster in question, Fluffy, was absolutely adorable—docile, soft, worthy of his name, and fit in the palm of my hand. My first instinct was to run out to PetSmart and get one the next day. But I resisted, and told my daughter we needed to do some research first. I grew up in an animal-friendly house and, at one time or another, I think we owned (besides cats and dogs), frogs, guinea pigs, hamsters, betta fish, goldfish, and a hermit crab. Oh, and of course the requisite sea monkeys ordered off the back of a cereal box! Owning these kinds of animals provided lots of joy and some tough life lessons, the most powerful one being not to take responsibility for another life lightly or hastily. So when trying to decide whether or not we should adopt a hamster, I started doing some research. I looked online, asked friends, posted a message to a local Facebook group of parents, and in the end decided a hamster was not a good idea for us at this stage of life. I told my daughter she might want to just snuggle more with the pet she already has, our dog Polly! If you’ve been thinking about getting a smaller, less-popular pet, you might be wondering which is your best bet. First of all, I’d caution you against adopting any of these pets—or other exotics—from large pet expos and pet stores unless you have researched the seller or breeder and know that they operate responsibly and with love and proper veterinary care for the animals they offer. The same caution of course goes for adopting or purchasing cats and dogs as well! Here’s what I discovered when I started researching; take a look at these brief overviews as you make the most educated decision for your household.
Fish
Many kinds of fish are great “starter pets” for young children—or adults! Siamese fighting fish (bettas) are great one-fish-in-a-small-bowl pets. They don’t need a filter and are pretty lowmaintenance. Same goes for goldfish. Gouramis and dwarf gouramis are also great fish to have; they are pretty peaceable among their own kind. The flame dwarf gourami, which has an orange body and neon-blue dorsal fin, is a nice fish for eyecatching color. Just be prepared to clean their bowl at least once a week on average. And know you’re not going to be able to curl up with Nemo on the couch on those long winter evenings…
Ferrets
Those who own ferrets love them to pieces. Those who don’t swear they smell horrible and are no fun. You might see if you know anyone who owns one so you can see for yourself before you adopt one, since they require a lot of care, similar to dogs and cats, and live about 8-11 years. Ferrets are soft, snuggly, and when well-socialized are super-sweet, friendly, playful, and inquisitive. They do need to be out of their cage for at least two hours a day because they are social animals; they can be trained to do tricks and are quite intelligent. Many people are not bothered by a ferret’s smell, but it is pretty strong and musky. They also can be destructive and like to steal things, so you will need to devote a good deal of time to keeping them supervised and occupied.
Guinea Pigs
These guys are super cute and fun to play with. They also require a good amount of care, similar to ferrets— exercise and time out of the cage every day, a large cage with the appropriate bedding materials, and veterinary care. They might not be the best choice for families with young children as they can get injured if play gets too rough. But they rarely bite and can make great companions, as long as they wellsocialized and receive enough attention and interaction from you.
Hamsters
I decided against owning a hamster at this point in our lives because the people I spoke to—all of whom had hamsters and human children—said they bite frequently, are nocturnal and thus can keep you up at night but be “boring” during the day, and are the kind of pet whose owners tend to lose interest. One person also said they are escape artists who frequently got out of their cage and got lost in the house. However, I could have gotten many hamsters for free, along with their cages and supplies, since so many people were ready to say au revoir to their little rodent friends! On the up side, those who love hamsters say they are great “pocket pets” and are absolutely precious because of their tiny size and inquisitive nature. They don’t require as much care as guinea pigs or ferrets, but you’ll probably want to skip getting a hamster unless you have a place where you can put his cage so that he doesn’t keep you up at night. So, especially with the holidays coming up, remember to think long and hard— and do your research—before adopting any kind of pet. I’m glad I did! Ashley Denham Busse has worked for Doggywalker.com since 2006. Doggywalker.com is a professional pet-sitting company located in Old Town Alexandria, celebrating more than 13 years of providing daily walks and customized in-home pet care. Visit doggywalker.com or email info@doggywalker.com.
Old Town Crier
A BIT OF HISTORY FROM PAGE 8
told journalist James M. Cannon in 1960. President Roosevelt twice appointed Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr., a successful Irish immigrant, to serve as inaugural Chairman; of the newly created Securities and Exchange Commission (1933-1934) and Maritime Commission (19361938). He was also appointed US Ambassador to the Court of St. James (1938-1940). Ambassador Kennedy foolishly backed British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, a Nazi appeaser, over Winston Churchill. JFK took his first political step in 1946. “Once I started, I worked damn hard, and I did the same thing in ’52, as I am now doing, which may not be successful nationally,” Kennedy continued. “Start early. Try to get the support of nonprofessionals…and then it is just long, long, long labor.” He represented Massachusetts 11th Congressional District in the US House of Representatives from 1947 to 1953 and elected to the US Senate in 1952. “The rewards,” Kennedy said, “are infinite.” He married Jacqueline Bouvier on September 12, 1953 and, as Senator, received the Pulitizerprize for his 1957 book Profiles in Courage. “In politics,” Kennedy wrote, “the choice constantly lies between two blunders.” In August 1960 Senator Kennedy chose Alexandria, Virginia to kick off the southern leg of his Presidential campaign. The Alexandria Gazette reported: “With presidential candidate John F. Kennedy in the fore…politicos…will stage what promises to be the largest political rally ever held in the city of Alexandria. The rally sponsors…hope that spacious George Washington High School stadium, which seats 14,000 persons, will be jam-packed to a standing room only condition.” “The affair will launch the Democrats’ national campaign in the south…The oratory, to which all else was a prelude, indicated the issues which will be most stressed…these
bore down on the experience of Richard M. Nixon, the matter of foreign policy and the Communist threat. It avoided the grating problems of [a divided] political party…the party platform on civil rights and sociological issues.” “The Democrat did not ignore an extemporaneous tribute to Virginia…He recalled that [Thomas] Jefferson returning from a mission in Europe had come back to demand of George Washington why a Senate had been provided for in the new U.S. Constitution. For the same reason that I put my coffee in a cup,” Washington was said to have answered. “To cool it off.” US Senator Harry F. Byrd, Sr. (DVA) did not attend the Alexandria rally. Kennedy became the third Democrat in the 20th century to be elected President without winning a majority of the popular vote, joining Woodrow Wilson in 1912 and Harry S. Truman in 1948. Not all policy was good; not all marriage vows remained sacred, yet JFK’s legacy lives strong. His last book, A Nation of Immigrants, was published posthumously in 1964. What President Kennedy could not immediately accomplish his successor, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson later did. Except, history suggests, for Vietnam. Kennedy’s Presidential “tapes indicate he consistently resisted pressure to send American troops into combat.” On November 22, the Newseum commemorates President Kennedy’s assassination with a Day of Remembrance. The daylong series of events include themed discussions with authors like historian James Swanson, journalists, and filmmakers. For more information visit: www.newseum.org. Feel free to address any comments or questions to abitofhistory@gmail.com
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GALLERY BEAT F. LENNOX CAMPELLO
The Ethics of Art
I
n the past I’ve often discussed and given examples of two unfortunate entities of the visual arts world: the unethical art dealer/gallerist and the unethical artist. In the decade since I’ve been doing DC Art News I’ve given plenty of examples of both, usually culled from not only my own experience, but also from the experiences of fellow artists and art dealers. There are other members of the unethical side of the art world, as there are in any profession: writers, critics, even collectors, but the explosion of the art fair scene has given birth to a whole new set of deviants from decency and moral ethic behavior. Enter the unethical art fair. This is an offshoot of the unethical dealer, as many art fairs’ origins are the result of an art dealer or gallerist making the decision to organize one. Many good established art fairs, such as Pulse and the Affordable Art Fairs, for example, are good, ethical fairs owned by the same person: a British gallery owner with a savvy business drive. Seattle gallery owners practically invented the hotel art fair, and Aqua has the well-earned reputation as being the "world’s best hotel art fair." The explosion of “satellite art fairs” in cities such as Miami during Art Basel Miami Beach (ABMB) week, or Basel during Art Basel Week, coupled with the realization that many galleries now sell the majority of their art at fairs and not at gallery shows, plus the rising costs of rent in many markets, have yielded the unfortunate fact that many art dealers close their physical spaces and focus their attention on art fairs worldwide. This December during ABMB week, there will be 26 or so art fairs throughout the Greater Miami area (plus countless other art events, openings, parties, etc.). Most of those fairs are ethical fairs, hoping to come to the world’s biggest visual arts dance. Most of participants in them will lose money, as participating in an art fair is a financially terrifying process to most galleries. Booth prices at established fairs range from $7,000 or so up to upwards of $100,000 dollars. Hotel fairs are a little less, but then again, in my opinion there remains really one worthwhile hotel fair at ABMB: Aqua. The others still struggle to both establish a presence and to attract collectors. Aqua was purchased last year from the Seattle gallerists who created it, and because it is now owned by the GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 16
14 | November 2013
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Sunday 11 am – 5 pm
915 King St • Old Town Alexandria 703.684.1435 alexandria.tenthousandvillages.com Mon-Wed 10-7 • Thu-Sat 10-9 • Sun 12-6 1124 King Street | Alexandria, Virginia 22314 At the corner of King and Fayette Streets
(703) 548-1461 | www.imagineartwear.com
Art&Antiques ABACA IMPORTS 1120 North Fairfax St. 703-683-5800
ELDER CRAFTERS 405 Cameron St. 703-683-4338
AMERICAN HERITAGE GALLERY 901 North Columbus St. 703-519-7869
FACTORY PHOTOWORKS 105 N. Union St. 703-683-1501
THE ANTIQUE GUILD 113 N. Fairfax St. 703-836-1048 ARTCRAFT 132 King St. 703-299-6616 ARTS AFIRE GLASS GALLERY 1117 King St. 703-548-1197 THE ATHENAEM 201 Prince St. 703-548-0035 AUBURN ARTS GALLERY 110 South Columbus St. 703-548-1932 BANANA TREE 1223 King St. 703-836-4317 BELGRAVIA FINE ART 411 Cameron St. 703-549-2011 BIRD-IN-THE-CAGE ANTIQUES 110 King St. 703-549-5114 BROCKETT’S ROW ANTIQUES 277 South Washington St. 703-684-0464 THE CLASSICAL GALLERY 110 S. Columbus St. 703-836-7736 CURZON HILL ANTIQUES 108 S. Columbus St. 703-684-0667 DIEHL ANTIQUES 614 N. Washington St. 703-706-8191
Old Town Crier
FINE OLD POSTERS 1015 King St. 703-684-3656 FIVE OAKS ANTIQUES 2413 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-519-7006 FOLIOGRAPH GALLERY 217 King St. 703-683-1501 FRASER GALLERY 7700 Wisconsin Blvd. Suite E Bethesda 301-718-9651 FRENCH COUNTRY ANTIQUES 1000 King St. 703-548-8563 GALLERY ’G’ 215 King St. 703-836-5400 GALLERY INDIGO 1607 King St. 703-838-8098 GALLERY LAFAYETTE 320 King St. 703-548-5266 GALLERIE LA TAJ 1010 King St. (Gadsby Arcade) 703-549-0508 GALLERY WEST 1213 King St. 703-549-7359 GOSSYPIA 325 Cameron St. 703-836-6969 IMAGINE ARTWEAR 1124 King St. 703-548-1461
JAMES WILHOIT ANTIQUES 227 S. Washington St. 703-683-6595 Kelly’s Art & Frame 510 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-549-3313
MARIS ELAINE GALLERY 178 Waterfront St. National Harbor 301-686-0323 MINDFULL HANDS GALLERY 211 King St. 703-683-2074 OLD COLONY SHOP 222-B S. Washington St. 703-548-8008
STUDIO ANTIQUES & ART 524 N. Washington St. 703-548-5188 STUDIO BIANCO 220 S. Henry St. 703-299-0662 TIME JUGGLER 411 Cameron St. 703-836-3594 TORPEDO FACTORY ART CENTER 105 N. Union St. 703-838-4565 TRASTEVERE 303 Cameron St. 703-683-9555
P & C ART 212 King St. 703-549-2525
VAN BOMMEL ANTIEK HAUS 1007 King St. 703-683-4141 703-629-6521 by appt. Steve Young, Proprietor
PAUL McGEHEE’S GALLERY 109 North Fairfax St. 703-548-7729
THE VON BRAHLER LTD./GALLERY 1437 Powhatan St. 703-798-8686
POTOMAC WEST INTERIORS & ANTIQUES 1517 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-519-1911
WASHINGTON SQUARE ANTIQUES 689 S. Washington St. 703-836-3214
Bring deeper meaning to your gathering with tableware and décor that give hope and a better life to artisans in the developing world.
GOSSYPIA Shop our extensive collection of Day of the Dead folk art from Mexico and Latin America. Join us the weekend of Nov. 1-2-3 and enter to win a store gift certificate. Traditional refreshments, like pan de muerto, aguas frescas and kahlua, will be served.
Store gift certificate RAFFLE! Nov. 1-2-3
325 Cameron Street
at the Corner of N. Royal Street
Old Town Alexandria 703.836.6969 • www.gossypia.com
PETER PARKER
PRINCE ROYAL GALLERY 204 S. Royal St. 703-548-5151 THE PRINCIPLE GALLERY 208 King St. 703-739-9326 SCULPTURE GALLERY 115 S. Patrick St. Studio 303 703-683-5056 SILVERMAN GALLERIES ANTIQUES 110 N. Asaph St. 703-836-5363 SPURGEON-LEWIS ANTIQUES 112 N. Columbus St. 703-548-4917
circa 2012 • oil and alkyds on wood • 23.5 x 19.5”
BY SIMON MONK Available from
ALIDA ANDERSON ARTS PROJECT, LLC Washington, DC
for more info: email@alidaanderson.com or 301.437.1054 November 2013 | 15
GALLERY BEAT FROM PAGE 14
same outfit that does Art Miami (in my opinion the best American art fair there is), CONTEXT, Art Wynwood, etc., it will probably expand its reputation as the best hotel art fair in the world. The unethical art fair’s model exploits the galleries’ desire to be in Miami, or London, or Basel during the dance. It also exploits their inexperience with art fairs, lack of information on what is a “good fair” and a “bad fair” as we’ll as embellished stories of the halcyon days of art fairs, when anything and everything that a gallery hung on a wall... sold. It is also the result of the still somewhat fierce competition for acceptance into some of the key art fairs. While I suspect that this brutal economy, coupled with a return to more traditional art collecting focus on the part of major collectors, and large financial art fair disasters for some galleries, have decreased the competition for acceptance into top notch art fairs such as Art Miami, Pulse, NADA, etc., they are still highly competitive and still more galleries apply than are accepted. It is the most basic rule of supply and demand. There are more galleries wanting to do these top art fairs than there are spaces available in them. A whole “lower” tier of art fairs exist to cater to the newer galleries and the “rejects” from the "top of the food chain" art fairs. Some, like 16 | November 2013
Scope, used to be top tier themselves, but Scope seems to be caught in a downward spiral caused, I suspect, by a combination of a once heavy-handed curatorial hand, plus a desperate desire to continue to achieve economic goals associated with healthier economic art times. Others are fairs that last a year or two and disappear from the scene. Some get such bad reputations that they cease to exist, only to be reincarnated under different names, seeking to entice a whole new crew of inexperienced victims. There is one easy two-part metric to gauge an art fair. The first part is to find out how long have they been around. That is not to say that a “new” fair is risky at all times. In fact, two of the newer Miami art fairs (CONTEXT and The Miami Project), immediately established solid reputations for both fairs on their first year. But a new fair has more to deal with in order to achieve success, which nearly always means attracting collectors’ (and their purses’) attention. No matter how much critical attention a fair gets, if the dealers consistently lose money, chances are that they won’t come back to that fair. Don’t get me wrong! Critical attention is important, and a key part of gathering the crucial seminal collector interest, but if you are a small, independent galley that just dropped $10,000 for a booth, plus another $5,000 for flights, hotel, car rental, art shipping and food, and you sell nothing, chances are that
you’re not coming back to that fair or to Miami, ever. Part two of the metric is to see how many dealers return each year to the same fair. If a significant number of galleries return to the same fair each year that usually means that they did OK at that fair. Fairs which have whole new rosters of art dealers each year, and little to none returning galleries, are fairs where the dealers are not selling artwork. Point of order: every art fair, no matter how good, always has a number of dealers that do very well, some that break even and many who lose money; every fair. None of the above discussions really clarify the “unethical fair”... Yet. But in my opinion, the following facts all contribute to make an art fair unethical and to be avoided at all costs (pun intended): • A fair that is organized by the same outfit every year or so with a different name because of legal or other issues associated with its previous name(s). • A fair that caters and seeks and accepts any and all applicants— including the known predatory online dealers that exploit artists by offering them (at significant costs) exhibition at the fair. Most art fair organizers know who the predatory dealers are (artists and ethical dealers “out” them). If, in spite of this knowledge they still sell the predators a booth, then they are themselves contributing to the
exploitation of the artists. • A fair which starts as a “galleries only” fair and then (as not enough gallery applications are received) opens the process to individual artists, so that in the end dealers and galleries are mixed with individual artists. With the notable exception of (e)merge, which was designed from the start to couple art dealers with unrepresented artists, the mixture of individual artists and art galleries at the same fair seldom succeeds. This is generally due to the spectacular lack of business acumen and selling experience that most artists have (not all), and the disastrous “discounting” orgies that happen on Sundays when artists realize that the fair is almost over and they haven’t sold squat. For the last several years, around October, I get emails from (usually) DMV artists who are thinking of doing an art fair in Miami and have been approached by an outfit which is organizing a fair in Miami. In almost every case I try to talk them out of it. Instead I advise them to visit Miami during the fairs, see a lot of them, and talk to people. I try to talk them out of the significant personal financial risk of doing an art fair on the fly. In almost every case, the artist does it anyway. Later, in Miami, they often swing by whatever fair I am in... Their long, sad faces adding more evidence to my empirical data gathering on this subject.
Old Town Crier
THE LAST WORD MIRIAM R. KRAMER
The Family Tie that Binds
I
n her 1999 Pulitzer Prize–winning book of short stories, The Interpreter of Maladies, and subsequent books such as The Namesake and Unaccustomed Earth, Indian-American author Jhumpa Lahiri introduced a global readership to her particular brand of the American immigrant story, the struggle to reconcile clashing cultural values between generations and the ways those who are first- or second-generation immigrants relate to those who have never accepted newer values. Lahiri’s brand-new novel, The Lowland, skillfully explores these themes anew as she relates a tale of two places and a family split over sixty years by the difference between cozy, or rigid, traditional origins in Calcutta and the much-touted freedoms, and their downsides, in America. In the beginning there are Udayan and Subhash, a pair of brothers separated by two years who look like twins and do everything together, from sleeping in the same bed to playing soccer on the land near their house, and area beyond two oblong ponds that mirrored each other and a lowland that flooded every year at monsoon season. Living in a secure, stable middle-class household near Calcutta, the brothers are very close, both excelling academically in the sciences but eventually attending colleges in different parts of Calcutta. Udayan, the younger, favored, and more reckless brother, becomes intrigued at his school in the late 1960s by tales of Naxalbari, an Indian village where peasants are rising up against greedy and exploitive landowners who would keep them in a state of feudalism and starvation. Subhash listens but takes a more neutral stance, unaccepting that the fiery, bombastic rhetoric that praises the Chinese Communism of Chairman Mao in promoting the revolution of the peasants will ensure equality among all. Always feeling less daring and less favored than Udayan, Subhash plans after graduate school to get his Ph.D. in the biology of estuaries in the United States. As Udayan does not approve, it seems as if Subhash is leaving in small part to form his own experience and personality in a place focusing on the individual. On one level, he does not want to sacrifice himself to Udayan’s collectivist values, which have become increasingly radical and activist. Subhash comes to realize after going to school that his move to a Rhode Island campus near the ocean, stripped of all color during the winters, has become an antidote to his brother, Old Town Crier
one that will both feed his academic sense of satisfaction and personal introversion while giving him a seemingly permanent sense of displacement from his former home. When his parents send him a telegram in 1971 relating dreadful news about Udayan, shot as a Communist Naxalite, Subhash returns home briefly after three years. In doing so he tries to recapture a sense of him, through marrying his brother’s pregnant bride, whom his parents despise. Gauri is a philosopher and budding academic who, unusually in that time and place, never meant to marry, until she fell in love with radical theorist and activist Udayan. For the first time Subhash stands up to his parents. They expect to pick a bride for him in Calcutta, where he should return to live in the family home. Instead, Subhash whisks Gauri back to Long Island. There she starts sitting in on philosophy lectures at the university he attends. This tale progresses in an endless tension within and between old and new families. Subhash, the responsible older brother, has a subconscious desire to hold on to his relationship with his younger brother through acting as father to his brother’s baby and through continuing his marriage to Gauri. Both Subhash and Gauri’s gradually thinning ties to the Calcutta in which they grew up and adherence to more American modes of being create compelling and wrenching plot twists that bring the story to the current day. Jhumpa Lahiri is a gorgeous writer. Her sentences are simple, devoid of excess adjectives and other frills, but her symbolism is not. As a result, her stories are very accessible. You can focus on her underlying meanings or ignore them. Yet they will eventually permeate your understanding of her all-encompassing depictions of families in turmoil, wrenched by cultural displacement. Her characters try to make sense of uprootedness and loneliness in unfamiliar settings by making a place for themselves. In these immigrants separated from home soil bloom repressed values, or new aspects to their senses of self that circumstance grafts to them. They are trees surviving or flourishing by digging their roots into new cultural earth. Watching them develop and grow through recurring seasons is a beautiful experience.
Experience
the Art of Jewelry
ExtEnsivE CollECtion of HandmadE JEwElry Open Every Day & Evenings 113 King Street • Old Town Alexandria 703.549.8530 • www.silverparrot.com
November 2013 | 17
CARIBBEAN CONNECTION JAIME ELLIOTT
Ridge to Reef Farm Organic food delivery in paradise
Nate and Shelli
L
iving on a tropical island certainly has its advantages — beautiful beaches, crystal clear turquoise bays and lush, green hillsides. Head into a grocery store, however, and get ready to catch your dropping jaw. Last time my Mom was visiting, she offered to make one of my favorite dishes, eggplant parmesan. When she realized the small, scraggly looking eggplants were skyward of $7 each—not per pound—we decided a nice chicken dish would be just fine. Eggplants are not alone; many items on St. John are expensive. Gasoline, milk and eggs, you’re going to pay more for them here than you would stateside. These items, and eggplants, kale, tomatoes, etc., are all imported and you have to pay for that; it’s the cost of living in paradise. But you do hope that after paying $7 for the eggplant, it at least is good, great even. Sadly that is often not the case. These very expensive vegetables must be picked well before they are ripe in order to be shipped to the islands; this really affects the taste. And I’m not talking about organic produce here, just your run of the mill produce fruits and veggies. So when the opportunity arose to join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program with the sole U.S. Department of Agriculture certified organic farm in the Virgin Islands, I jumped at the chance. Ridge to Reef Farm is nestled in a lush tropical rainforest area CARRIBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 19
18 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
Photography: Rolando Garces
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CLIFFHANGER
CARIBBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 18
of St. Croix, which is about 40 miles south of St. John. Owned and operated by Georgia transplant Nate Olive and his island wife Shelli Brin-Olive, Ridge to Reef Farm is also the home of the V.I. Sustainable Farms Institute, which is dedicated to nothing less than changing local resident’s relationship to food. The farm’s primary goals are to feed one percent of the Virgin Islands population healthy, local, organic food; share sustainable living and island heritage experiences to 4,000 local and offisland visitors annually; and to inspire action for a more healthy island and global community. Ridge to Reef offers weekly farm tours, farm stays and a number of educational programs for local children, adults and visitors alike. Their most delicious program, however, is CSA. The program is based on members paying for shares of the produce up front. You register and pay for a season, which is usually between 10 and 12 weeks, and you get a weekly delivery of beautiful, organic, fresh and local produce. It comes out to about $30 a week for the vegetable share and an additional $20 for the optional fruit share. I’ve taken part in two seasons so far and I’m never going back to the grocery store. It’s so much fun each week to see what you got from the farm. Each week includes a bag of mixed salad greens, fresh herbs, beautiful vegetables like okra, cucumbers or squash. Fruits have ranged from star fruit (carambola) to bananas and coconuts. I’ll admit that CSA poses its own set of challenges, for instance what to do with seemingly endless mangoes. Ridge to Reef Farm grows about 20 different types of mangoes and the summer food deliveries included several of them each week. I mastered the art of making mango chutney and mango granita, mango salsa and even mango fruit pops. CSA has changed the way we eat, and for the better. Since you don’t want to waste any of this beautiful produce and you can’t just eat a salad every day, you are forced to get creative. The food is organic, locally grown and the money spent on it supports an active farm dedicated to the betterment of the territory. Plus, the eggplant is fresh and crisp and makes the best eggplant parmesan I’ve ever tasted—just don’t tell my Mom that it’s better than hers. Old Town Crier
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November 2013 | 19
ROAD TRIP BOB TAGERT
FRONT ROYAL
VIRGINIA ĂĽ
A
s I write this, the leaves are bursting with beautiful Fall colors. By the time you read this article the leaves along Skyline Drive may have passed their peak; however, down along the Shenandoah River that runs through the town of Front Royal, the moisture helps to slow the rapid change in color. Where the Blue Ridge Mountains‌meet the Shenandoah River, change comes slow, and that is why this is one of my favorite road trip destinations. Front Royal is the northern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley and Shenandoah National Park. The 20 | November 2013
Where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet the Shenandoah River crown jewel of outdoor recreation and the Canoe Capital of Virginia, Front Royal can provide a full day of fun and an evening of relaxation. One of my favorite places to visit is Elizabeth Furnace recreation area in the George Washington National Forest. The area got its name from a blast furnace that occupied the grounds from 1833 to 1888 and was used to create pig iron using Passage Creek for water power. Iron ore was mined nearby, purified in the furnace, and then the pig iron was transported over the Massanutten Mountain to the South Fork of the Shenandoah River for forging in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. The road used to
transport the iron is still used today by hikers and campers. The North Fork and South Fork of the Shenandoah converge at Front Royal and flow for 57 miles until it empties into the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry. The Shenandoah is a low gradient, slow moving river, which makes it ideal for canoeing or kayaking. The deep gorge of the river makes for banks that are tree-lined and create a feeling of being alone in the wilderness. Bring your own canoe, or rent one at the handful of facilities around town. As I mentioned earlier, the leaves of the trees along the river will turn slower that those in the mountains. Old Town Crier
So, if the weather is warm, head for the water, or just take a leisurely stroll through the parks. Historic Front Royal isn’t exactly a hotbed of activity as far as nightlife is concerned, but hey, this is a place to get away, relax and take in the sights and sounds. During the first week of December, Front Royal holds its annual Old Time Christmas Celebration downtown at the town square and gazebo. As well as live music, there will be authentically dressed Victorian carolers and horse-drawn carriages. With recent renovations, the downtown/old town area will feature new shops as well as the old favorites. Old Town Crier
While downtown you can take a walking tour. The tour takes you by the Warren Rifles Confederate Museum, the Belle Boyd House (home of the famous Confederate spy Belle Boyd), and Soldiers Circle, where the remains of 276 confederate soldiers lie, representing each of the 13 states of the Confederacy. For the tinsel town crowd, you can tour the summer homes of Warren Beatty and Shirley Maclaine who grew up in Front Royal. There are many places to dine in Front Royal, but I will just mention a few. Across from the visitor’s center is the distinctive Main Street Mill Restaurant and Tavern. You can’t miss
the place with its red checkerboard Purina look and grain board. You will come back for their terrific home-style cooking, reasonable prices and just all around fun time. The second place to have a bite to eat and a really good time is the Lucky Star Lounge at 205A East Main Street. These guys don’t serve any fried food, but everything else is tasty and they offer an abundance sandwiches, salads, pastas and 50 different craft beers. They also have live local music every night but are closed on Sunday. The third establishment is one that I have not visited, but hear about it all of the time. Apt.2g Restaurant is the fine dining element in Front Royal.
Set in an old apartment building, the dining is intimate and exceptional. Check out all of these places online. I also have to mention the Happy Creek Coffee & Tea located on the corner of High Street and Jackson. A good friend and baker extraordinaire, Shannon Koprivich-Jones, recently moved here with her family and she loves the place! I do understand that the coffee is amazing. We have added Happy Creek to our Front Royal distribution. Some of the leaves are still green, so take a drive down 66 to Front Royal, Virginia and take in all of its beauty.
November 2013 | 21
FROM THE BAY… MOLLY WINANS
To Sail or Not to Sail
Y
“It’s All About the Seafood!”
Now serving Sunday brunch
Traditional & Creative Coastal Cuisine 119 King Street • Old Town Alexandria 703-836-2836 • wharfrestaurant.com
ou really shouldn’t go sailing today. Your cell phone’s Weatherbug app predicts sunshine and a high of 65 degrees. Accu-Weather forecasts 10 to 15 knots from the west, with gusts up to 20. The skipper’s swapping out the genoa for the slimmer “winter” jib so that the guests, Karen and Don—sailors who recently relocated here and haven’t been on the water for a while—will be comfortable. Wow, it’s beautiful outside. The leaves are rustling, yellow and orange, with patches of red. Such beauty does not last for long. Two precious weeks, max, until the leaves drop. But you really shouldn’t go sailing today. Deadlines are deadlines, and you’re a professional on a deadline. You’re behind schedule. Your penchant for procrastination is taxing on your teammates... and yourself. Remember the many readers who stopped by the booth during the sailboat show to say, “We love your articles!” You bask in such comments. They are your lifeblood. You don’t let yourself think about how these long days at the show will tax your brain, fill your e-mail box, and mysteriously wreck your desk. Until three days before the November print deadline, and you receive an invitation to go sailing on one of the prettiest days of the year. Then, you remember how much work you have left to do. Sailing would be foolish. All the excuses you have, real ones. The cat’s sick. Your clothes are dirty. The most nourishing food FROM THE BAY > PAGE 25
22 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
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14442 Solomons Island Road • Solomons, Maryland 20688 • SolomonsKingfisher@gmail.com
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Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle By The Bay, Shop, Dine and Stay...
photo by: Dawn Richardson
NORTH BEACH BUSINESS LOOP
Holiday Parade December 7th 12pm
Old Town Crier
Shops Bay Wine & Spirits Artworks@7th Old Town Candy Doggiestylez At the Bay Healing Arts Center Lighthouse Market & Signs Nice & Fleazy Antiques Willetta’s Antiques Chesapeake Antiques
North Beach, Maryland
The Wheel Clothing Store Kairos Counseling & Education Center Deanna Dove, Island Girl Calvert Kettle Corn Jetti Arts Gift Shop & Gallery Beauty by the Bay Tans Cycle Shop Sisters’ Corner Gifts Metropolitan Appliance
northbeachbusinessloop
Restaurants Cold Penguin Sweet Sue’s Bake Shop & Coffee Bar Plaza Mexico
Neptune’s Seafood Pub Lodging Herrington Harbour Inn Museum Bayside History Museum
www.northbeachmd.org November 2013 | 23
…TO THE BLUE RIDGE JULIE REARDON
photos: Julie Reardon
Giving Thanks
Tethered to land lines and dial-up
L
eaves are gently falling from one of the most colorful autumns in recent memory. Wood ducks and mallards buzz our ponds, and migrating Canada geese honk at their resident friends as they head south. Animals and people alike have been enjoying Indian summer and an abundant harvest from plentiful rainfall. The mast, or acorn crop, was especially plentiful, ensuring nourishment for wildlife as growth dies back in preparation for winter. The horses are growing fuzzy winter coats, and as retirees, no longer need clipping and blanketing. They bear little resemblance to their early years as sleek Thoroughbred race horses. There’s a lot to be thankful for when you live on a farm in the shadows of the Blue Ridge. But, cell and internet access are not among them. Cell phone signals are sketchy at best and few areas have access to truly high speed internet service. Within 50 or 60 miles of Washington D.C., large areas remain with little or no cell service, and only limited satellite internet access, which … TO THE BLUE RIDGE > PAGE 25
24 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
… TO THE BLUE RIDGE FROM PAGE 24
is only high speed compared to dial up, and costs nearly as much as health insurance. Most banana republics have better access to reliable cellular service and internet access. And you definitely need the GNP of a larger one to pay for your lousy access. Lack of cell service—and we are talking none, as in you can’t even retrieve messages— becomes a problem when your land line goes down, as telephone service providers increasingly devote more resources to their lucrative wireless customer base. Have a nonworking land line? You’re pretty low on their priority list. If and when you can get through, you’ll wait eight to 10 days for a technician to visit your area. Even getting through to schedule a repair is monumental, because they want you to contact them by phone or via their website. Recently our land line was down for the second time in a month. I drove down the road to a high spot and called on my cell phone, but the signal wasn’t good enough for their computers to accept me punching in the 10-digit land line number. So I drove to another spot with more bars and had better luck, until I got to the part where I had to enter my account number. That was at home, on my kitchen counter. Starting over again with information in hand, I got to the part where they assign you a PIN number. But, you have to wait for this to be delivered by a robo-call “within 24 hours.” Ummm … just how are they going to call me when my phone isn’t working? Am I supposed to camp out in my parked truck on a hilltop that has cell reception, waiting to schedule an appointment that’s—no doubt— some two weeks in the future? As for high speed internet service, it’s just not available out here. No Comcast, no FIOS, and all those happy rural dwellers on the TV commercials about satellite internet, are actors that are paid to lie. “We love living out here!” Well, they may, but not because of their internet service! Some satellite services are available in certain areas, if you have the right southern exposure, but none are exactly high speed and they’re expensive and unreliable. The sales rep that came to visit us three or four years ago said it’d be no problem to install the FROM THE BAY … FROM PAGE 22
in your refrigerator are five apples, one egg, and a half cucumber that’s on the soggy side. And you have a heap of work to do. You really shouldn’t go sailing today. The skipper has even given you an out. “Just send a text if you decide not to go. No big deal.” He’s not short-handed. He doesn’t need you to entertain his workmate Don and his wife Karen; they don’t even know you, so they don’t care one way or the other. You should just sit your butt down at the laptop and get moving. Go. Laptop. Go. Write. You walk out on the porch and see the lethargic cat soaking in the sunshine. You’ll feel so much better if you finish your work, go to the grocery store, go to bed at a decent hour. But then, wait a minute. Think it through. What will you feel like when the crew returns and tells you what an amazing sailing day they had? Oh, the wind, the sun, the perfect Thomas Point Lighthouse reach! Oh, the pretty leaves! How will you feel then? You’re going sailing today. You put on the new Gill socks you bought at the sailboat show, grab a goose down vest and some full-finger Old Town Crier
dish, wiring and network for a few grand, if we cut down some trees. The problem was, “some trees” was several acres worth, most not on our property. We were still tethered to our dial up and desktops until about three years ago. Many people here still only have dial up. However, as websites have gotten fancier and more video- and graphic-intensive, a good many of them cannot be accessed at all on dial up and are painfully and frustratingly slow to load on satellite internet service. While perhaps marginally faster than dial up, it has the annoying habit of fading into the “page not available” status, often when you’re in the middle of a crucial project. Often bad weather interferes and it’s simply not possible to get online at all. Enter the age of the smart phone and freedom from desktops, laptops and paper. We finally broke down and got smart phones a year ago when it became clear our old cell phones were becoming obsolete; it was getting hard to find batteries and charger cords for them. And prices had come way down. Only problem is, to learn how to use them, you really need to, well, use them. So we got one of those cell signal boosters that a few friends raved about, placed it on the highest peak of the roof and nothing changed. So, during the season of giving thanks, here are mine: I’m thankful I live where I do. If I lived in a city, no doubt I’d actually know how to do more than make calls and text on my smart phone and use it more. I might even use it at times when I shouldn’t. Right now I wouldn’t dream of trying to use it while driving. Other drivers can give thanks they won’t be killed by me texting while I drive. I’m thankful I don’t have a job where it’s vital to be available instantly, 24/7. I’m thankful my good friends know the best way to reach me is by my land line, because often messages on my cell phone aren’t retrieved for several days or even weeks. And I’m thankful that it’s often hard or impossible to get on sites like Facebook and YouTube, because I waste enough time online as it is. The real world is much more satisfying. And I’m very thankful that no cell phones will ring during the holidays when I’m eating the Thanksgiving meal with my family.
“Like our best friends’ home if our best friends were amazing chefs and knew exactly what we wanted before we asked.” Trip Advisor
www.hopkinsordinary.com Sperryville, Virginia 540.987.3383
gloves in case it feels like the 50s out there, and head to the marina. Don and Karen are already on the boat, looking excited as kids to get out there for their first sail on the Chesapeake Bay. They have taken sailing classes and earned ASA certification and done what many professionals do, gotten so busy with life and family and work that they put off sailing. For years. They are giddy to go sailing again. Fall sailing days don’t get any better than this. We sail and relax under the bluest of blue skies. Eat peanuts, tell stories. When we tie up safely at the dock, and although sober, feeling a bit drunk on the sun-dazzled day, our new friends say their thank yous. Don says, “It was heaven.” Yes, you will pay later for this afternoon procrastination technique. Isn’t a little slice of heaven worth it? This article first appeared in the November 2012 SpinSheet. Winans is the editor of SpinSheet sailing magazine located in Eastport, Md.
November 2013 | 25
discover the charm CULPEPER, VirginiA SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30
Brighton Pandora Waxing Poetic LeStage Convertibles Kameleon Baby Gifts Bath
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Annual Culpeper Downtown Holiday Open House Sunday, November 24, 2013 12 noon to 5:00 pm Community Tree Lighting 5:30 pm Unique Specialty Shops | Convenience Shopping Downtown Great In-Store Specials | Decorations of the Holiday Season Trolley Rides | Pictures with Santa | Live Music | Magic Performances Children’s Story Time by Culpeper County Library Toys for Tots Campaign | Horse & Carriage Rides Museum of Culpeper History Open House | Culpeper Center Open House Culpeper Garden Club Wreaths & Centerpieces
141 East Davis Street • Culpeper, Virginia 540.829.6378
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201 E. Davis St. Downtown Culpeper 540.825.9178 www.clarkehardware.com Wine Craft Beer Cheese Cigars Unique Pantry Items Complimentary Tastings and Educational Classes for Wine and Beer Enthusiasts
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174 E. Davis Street, Culpeper, VA 22701 540.829.WINE • culpeperwines.com • facebook.com/VINOSITY Tue-Thu 10a-6p • Friday 10a-8p • Saturday 10a-6p • Sunday Noon-5p
26 | November 2013
Designer’s Choice
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Miss Minerva’s
TEA ROOM & GIFT SHOP PURVEYORS OF FINE LOOSE TEA Select from 57 fine loose teas including rooibos, tisane, white, Sunday green & black teas. & Monday ¼, ½ & 1 lb. bags Reservations Only 167 E. Davis Street • Culpeper, VA 22701 540.829.9700 •Tues-Sat 11am-4pm missminervas.com • missminervas@verizon.net Old Town Crier
SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON
DO YOU KNOW YOUR LIFE PURPOSE? Would you like to know the meaning of your life?
What If It Doesn’t Go the Way You Planned?
I
n this case “It” could be a job interview, a new product launch, a salary negotiation or a potential client call, or something else that you were really jazzed and positively nervous/excited
about. It’s all fine to bandy about cliches like, “When a door closes, God always opens a window” and “There’s always a silver lining to every cloud,” but those positive thoughts fly out the window when your personal thing seems to tank before your very eyes. You’re not a bad person for being ticked off and angry when things didn’t go the way you hoped. You are not unworthy or less than and the Universe is not trying to make you jump through more hoops until you learn your lessons. Sure, there’s likely something better out there. How you get from feeling kicked in the teeth to the something better is where most otherwise brilliant women get stuck. Instead of surrendering the outcome and moving onward and upward, after a brief period of licking your wounds, you get bogged down in a litany of everything that’s wrong with you, starting with the “stupid” belief that this thing could have succeeded in the first place! Trust me, this is something I know first-hand! Here are some tips for avoiding the selfflagellation and keeping your positive momentum, even in the midst of apparent failure: • Assess the situation with your logical brain. Remove any and all emotional language and write up a report on the entire process from beginning to end. If you can’t remove the emotional language and thoughts find a good friend or coach to talk through the process with you. Ask them to “delete” any emotional language and replace with factual words. • Walk away! Get out in nature, spend time with pets or animals or simply do some downward dogs or stretches. Step away from the situation for a short time. (this is where having a personal meditation practice comes in handy. It helps you refocus when your brain wants to replay the “disaster.” Have you noticed that in each replay the disaster gets worse?) • Check in with your body. As you review your report don’t focus on the words on the paper, as much as you “hear” what your body says to you about each item. When you feel discomfort in your body, take a Old Town Crier
deep breath and get curious. “Ask” your body what it’s trying to tell you! If you feel a tightening in neck or clenching of your teeth when you think about a specific part of your preparation, ask what it means. Keep following the answers with more questions until you get to the core issue. It’s possible that you were following a system that worked for someone else, but it didn’t really fit your style, and every time you tried to force yourself into their mold, it caused your neck to spasm. This is GREAT information for when you’re ready to try again! • Do something for someone else. There is no greater gift than that of genuine service. This means that you are giving (your time, your money, your expertise) with no expectation of a “return.” In fact, I’ve heard it said that true abundance is when we give not looking to receive. When the outcomes you expected to receive aren’t what you hoped, take some time and give to others. This can be in the form of helping someone carry a heavy bag to their car, holding the door for a parent with three squirming children, or donating an hour to your favorite non-profit to help organize their database, Give with no thought of return and do it from your heart and see what shifts for you in the process. These are four steps you can take to shake off the sting of what seems like a loss or failure. There are many more tools you can use depending on your specific situation and your personal style and passions. Just remember, you can surrender your feelings of worthlessness and replace them with a deeper understanding of your true passions. From there you get to take what you’ve learned and create something even more magnificent than you imagined. In other words, you get to open the window! Peggie Arvidson is the Money Mindset Coach for Healers. She helps healers charge what they’re worth and get it by helping them break the pattern of self-doubt so that they can attract their perfect clients. One of the hardest things for those in healing professions is to recognize the monetary value of the services they provide, so they can keep their businesses thriving and stop struggling to pay their bills. Peggie walks them through the five steps they’ll be able to apply, using their genuine strengths. to bring them a steady flow of perfect clients for their practice. You can learn more at GrowYourMoneyMojo.com
Once you’ve figured out the meaning of your life, the fun begins. You get to laugh more, breathe deeper and create balance for everything that is important to you. Your life purpose is the cornerstone of balance and peace in your life. The good news is that everything you need to get started is literally in the palm of your hands.
Email Peggie at handanalystpro@comcast.net and explore whether a life purpose identification reading is right for you. 703-577-4759 or peggie@peggiearvidson.com MAYFLOWER MYTHS FROM PAGE 2
celebrating thanksgiving after the harvest. During the American Revolution a yearly day of national thanksgiving was suggested by the Continental Congress. In 1817 New York State adopted Thanksgiving Day as an annual custom, and by the middle of the 19th century many other states had done the same. In 1863 President Abraham Lincoln appointed a day of thanksgiving as the last Thursday in November, which he may have correlated it with the November 21, 1621, anchoring of the Mayflower at Cape Cod. Since then, each president has issued a Thanksgiving Day proclamation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt set the date for Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November in 1939 (approved by Congress in 1941).
Myth: The pilgrims wore only black and white clothing. They had buckles on their hats, garments, and shoes. Fact: Buckles did not come into fashion until later in the seventeenth century and black and white were commonly worn only on Sunday and formal occasions. Women typically dressed in red, earthy green, brown, blue, violet, and gray, while men wore clothing in white, beige, black, earthy green, and brown. Myth: The pilgrims brought furniture with them on the Mayflower. Fact: The only furniture that the pilgrims brought on the Mayflower was chests and boxes. They constructed wooden furniture once they settled in Plymouth.
Myth: The Mayflower was headed for Virginia, but due to a navigational mistake ended up in Cape Cod Massachusetts.
Fact: The Pilgrims were in fact planning to settle in Virginia, but
not the modern-day state of Virginia. They were part of the Virginia Company, which had the rights to most of the eastern seaboard of the U.S. The pilgrims had intended to go to the Hudson River region in New York State, which would have been considered “Northern Virginia,” but they landed in Cape Cod instead. Treacherous seas prevented them from venturing further south. Publisher’s note: This feature compliments of The History Channel. November 2013 | 27
American DUTCH’S GRILL (Holiday Inn) 2460 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA 703-960-3400
BILBO BAGGINS 208 Queen St. 703-683-0300 BITTERSWEET 823 King Street 703-549-2708
THE GRILL RESTAURANT/ PIANO BAR AT MORRISON HOUSE 116 S. Alfred St. 703-838-8000
CARLYLE CLUB 411 John Carlyle St. 703-549-8957 CHADWICK’S 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 chadwicksrestaurants.com An Old Town tradition since 1979 and an original Georgetown pub and restaurant since 1967. CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080
EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 FAST EDDIE’S BILLIARD CAFE 6220 Richmond Hwy. 703-660-9444 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FINN & PORTER AT MARK CENTER 5000 Seminary Rd. 703-379-2346
CLYDE’S 1700 N. Beauregard St. 703-820-8300 clydes.com
FIRE FLIES 1501 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-7200
COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776
FLAT IRON STEAK & SALOON 808 King St. 703-299-0777
Dining Guide
FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342
MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117
Zero Prince St. 703-683-6076 dandydinnerboat.com
SOCIETY FAIR 277 S. Washington St. 703-683-3247
GADSBY’S TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288
MANCINI’S 1508 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-838-FOOD
SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222
HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050
MANGO MIKE’S 4580 Duke St. 703-370-3800
O’CONNELL’S RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 danieloconnellsrestaurant.com
INDIGO LANDING #1 Marina Dr. Washington Sailing Marina 703-548-0001
McGINTY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 3650 S. Glebe Rd. Potomac Yard Located at Market Square in the Eclipse next to Harris Teeter on Rt.1 703-414-3555
IRELAND’S OWN 111 North Pitt St. 703-549-4535 irelandsownpub.com JACK’S PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372
ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515
RED MEI 602 King St. 703-837-0094
MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710
THAILAND, ROYAL ST 835 N. Royal St. 703 535-6622
MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600
TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878
BRABO Tasting Room 1600 King St. 703-894-5252
TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com Northern Italian, French provincial and American cuisine featuring fresh seafood, meats and pasta served in a contemporary, romantic atmosphere.
JOE THEISMANN’S 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777 KING STREET BLUES 112 N. St. Asaph St. 703-836-8800
LIGHT HORSE RESTAURANT 715 King St. 703-549-0533
Caph’e Ban’h Mi’ Vietnamese 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 Sang Jun Thai 300 King Street 571-312-3377
BERTUCCI’S 725 King St. 703-548-8500 BUGSY’S PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 bugsyspizza.com FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998
NOTTING HILL 1106 King St. 703-299-4590 RESTAURANT EVE 110 S. Pitt St. 703-706-0450 CEDAR KNOLL INN GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-799-1501
LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854
CHEZ ANDREE 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-836-1404
LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661
TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141
LA BERGERIE 218 N. Lee St. 703-683-1007 labergerie.com
FONTAINE’S CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151
YVES’ BISTRO 235 Swamp Fox Rd. In the Hoffman Center 703-329-1010
28 | November 2013
NICKELL’S AND SCHIFFLER 1028 King St. 703-684-5922 NINA’S DANDY Potomac Party Cruises
PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699
LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com Elegant, classical Italian cuisine served in a lovely historical setting. Fresh veal, homemade pastas, and fresh fish are some of the daily choices. An extensive list of wines and champagnes served in a sophisticated and friendly atmosphere.
GERANIO RISTORANTE 722 King St. 703-548-0088 geranio.net Still Old Town’s highest-rated Italian restaurant (Zagat). Discerning Old Towners flock here for refined cuisine in this comfortable, yet sophisticated restaurant. With entrees from $14, there is no reason not to enjoy a selection from their Wine Spectator awardwinning list, while being attended by the friendly staff of seasoned professionals. Reservations recommended and casual attire welcomed.
OLD CHICAGO PIZZERIA 2245 Huntington Ave. 703-960-1086
IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833
VILLA D’ESTE 600 Montgomery St. 703-549-9477
LA STRADA 1905 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-2592 SAPORE D’ITALIA RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA 1310 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-683-9680
PARADISO 124 King St. 703-837-1245 PINES OF FLORENCE 1300 King St. 703-549-1796 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 TRATTORIA DA FRANCO 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338
TRADEMARK 2800 Jamieson Ave. 703-253-8640
RAILSTOP GASTROPUB 901 N. Fairfax St. 703-683-8793 RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com REYNOLDS STREET CAFÉ 34 S. Reynolds St. 703-751-0830 ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 SAMUEL BECKETT’S IRISH GASTRO PUB 2800 S. Randolph St. Villages of Shirlington 703-379-0122
TRADITIONS (Holiday Inn) 625 First St. 703-548-6300 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com Old Town’s favorite neighborhood tap & grill. Distinct southern style menu, fine steaks, fresh seafood. Sunday brunch, private parties, happy hour. VERMILLION 1120 King St. 703-684-9669 VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669
SHOOTER MCGEE’S 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266
italian • pizzErias
FRENCH BASTILLE 1201 N. Royal St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com
MURPHY’S IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com Old-world Irish pub featuring a roaring fireplace, serving a variety of imported, domestic and non-alcoholic beers in a friendly atmosphere. Serving robust American-Irish meals at fair prices. Favorites include fish and chips and Irish stew. Irish-style entertainment nightly.
LAPORTA’S 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313
CONTINENTAL BRABO by Robert Weidmaier 1600 King St. 703-894-3440
MOUNT VERNON INN Mount Vernon, Va 703-780-0011
JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790
asian
MONROES AMERICAN TRATTORIA 1603 Commonwealth Ave. 703-548-5792
OVERWOOD 220 North Lee St. 703-535-3340
T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com American cuisine with libations from around the world. Bar specials Mon-Fri, 4-7 PM. Brunch served Sat & Sun.
THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868 MEDITERRANEAN
LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 “Spring into Spain and Feast Like a King.” Offering unlimited tapas at lunch and dinner. Choice of dessert included. Lunch 11:30-4:30 for $20.07; dinner 4:30-close for $30.07. Eat a little, drink a little, have a lot of fun! LAYLA 907 King St. 703-684-3288
CASABLANCA 1504 King St. 703-549-6464
PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 thepitahouse.com Family owned and operated; carry out available and free delivery.
TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com
DELIA’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. Alexandria, VA 703-329-0006
LAS TAPAS 710 King St. 703-836-4000
seafood Hank’s Oyster Bar 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK RT’S RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 FLYING FISH 815 King St. 703-600-FISH flyingfishdc.com Traditional American and fancy seafood specializing in sushi. FISH MARKET-CLINTON 7611Old Branch Ave. Clinton, MD 301-599-7900 ERNIE’S ORGINIAL CRABHOUSE 1743 King St. 703-836-0046
FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com Internationally known and locally owned! We serve shrimps, a few crabs, tall people and lots of nice people, too! Live music and lively food! THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 wharfrestaurant.com "It’s All About the Seafood," traditional and creative coastal cuisine.
MEXICAN • LATIN SOUTHWESTERN AUSTIN GRILL 801 King St. 703-684-8969 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) INDIAN DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd. 703-660-6085
Old Town Crier
G GERANIO RISTORANTE
Ireland’s Own Pub
111 N. Pitt St. • old towN alexaNdria
703.549.4535
ted garber
On Stage Sunday, November 10, 7pm lIVe MusIC OpeN Mic MONdayS at 8 pM PatIOs always OPen & alwayS dOg-frieNdly HOPe tO see yOu tHere! Monday-Friday 11 am-2 am saturday & sunday 10:30 am-2 am
IrelandsOwnPub.com
Redefining Italian Cuisine in Old Town Alexandria Dinner Entrees from $14 722 King Street Old Town Alexandria 703.548.0088 www.geranio.net
“The Finest Lebanese Cuisine” –Washington Post, 2001 Family Owned & Operated Come and Enjoy a Cozy Candlelit Dinner Carry-Out Available • Free Delivery Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner
719 King St. Old Town Alexandria 703.684.9194 • thepitahouse.com
Celebrating 40 years in Old Town
Chris, Denise and Nick Papaloizou invite you to join them for lunch or dinner and celebrate the traditional Greek way!
Live Traditional Greek Music, Plate-Breaking and Dancing Every Thursday Beginning at 7:30 P.M. 703.548.8688 • TAVERNACRETEKOU.COM 818 King Street • Old Town AlexandriA
TAVERNA CRETEKOU REGIONAL GREEK CUISINE SINCE 1973
Old Town Crier
November 2013 | 29
DINING OUT VINCENTARRUNATEGUI
DANIEL O’CONNELL’S RESTAURANT & PUB Handing the reigns over to a new chef, this Irish classic is looking to add a more serious approach to cooking within an already established neighborhood favorite. Service charismatic, prompt Apps: $8.50-13 Plates: $13-22 Glass/Pint: ~$8/~$6 Dessert: $7-9 Hours 11 am - 1 am
O’Connell’s
Brunch 11 am - 3 pm
New chef, old favorite
Contact 703-739-1124 112 King Street Old Town Alexandria danieloconnells.com Overall SOLID!
W
ith the timeless interior décor of a Western European destination pub, a consistent live music billing, and some of the cheekiest staff on King Street, the management at O’Connell’s believes that they can add just a tad more soul to their operation by directing their focus on an the second most important part of an Irishman’s diet (and no it’s not whiskey). By importing the Dublin born Chef Steff Gormley this past October the food menu has already undergone some wise changes, and in my most recent visit I was able to sample some of the impressive fare any person— Irish or not—could appreciate. With ethnic food I am always curious how the kitchen will try to deviate from the norm and standout amongst it’s peers without sacrificing authenticity. Specifically with Irish food, who could possible raise the already high standard of my Grandma Faughnan’s soda bread or my mother’s corned beef and cabbage? Well the answer is usually formed from an equation (I rarely will admit exists – in front of my family at least) consisting of two components: higher quality ingredients and enlightened kitchen technique. Normally this restaurant or pub with an Irish kitchen hopes to attract cliental who are looking for 30 | November 2013
something that is found on your average plate on March 17. Generally when I go to Irish pubs I love to order a cold stout and a bowl of mussels or a half dozen or so platter of raw oysters on the half shell. The latter two options were not offered and I was quite disappointed. After glancing over the smartly organized beer section on the newly printed menus the waitress handed me I soon sighed in relief as I made an order for a delicious Old World lager, which was promptly brought to me on a pretty busy Tuesday night. Now to shy away from the epicurean aspect of this article for a moment, I have to note that O’Connell’s has a very unique floor plan and is extremely forgiving for groups of people looking for a bustling atmosphere without sacrificing their ability to hear each other speak. There are great booths for parties of moderate size that are neatly tucked into the areas surrounding the bar. These are my absolute favorite aspect of the restaurant’s aesthetic, beating out some of the grand, yet
eclectic, pieces that have been imported from the motherland. On a weekday, these are more than accessible, but arrive promptly on a weekend evening as the crowds roll in to see some of the best live Irish music in the D.M.V. area. After a few sips of my beer and some decent banter with the waitress, I decided to take a look at my nonshellfish appetizer options. I was very interested in the scotch eggs and decided to give them a go. The plate had two hard-boiled eggs, covered in sausage and breadcrumbs, which were sliced in half and served with a robust Irish mustard. For those of you who have never tried Irish mustard it is whole grain, aged, blended with whiskey and stout and made for a superb pairing in this dish. These are definitely an Irish classic that I am not used to seeing on the East Coast. In an attempt to increase the quality of their dishes I am excited to see that the kitchen is choosing to use local ingredients. Although I only noticed one ingredient advertised as local, this was enough to get me excited. The ingredient: Virginia corn-fed chicken. The two dishes they offered were a classic roasted half-chicken, served with seasonal vegetables, delicious
homemade mashed potatoes, and a white wine pepper cream sauce or a chicken curry. I chose to sample to latter. I love seeing curry offered at pubs because the spice reminds me of drunk food in England and is generally not found outside of Indian cuisine. The chicken is slow roasted and seasoned with curry, and chutney. Served over rice, this was the perfect meal to order with a side salad or small appetizer. The next dish I chose to sample was the Guinness Pork Shank. I often get tired seeing the word “Guinness” as a prefix to any dish at an Irish restaurant, but I wanted to see what the presentation of the dish would look like and see the quality of the meat. The shank was cooked fine, braised and had a good flavor but on the tough side. I was impressed with the apple gravy that worked as a wonderful intermediary between the pork and the mashed potatoes, which I have to reiterate, were definitely homemade. I was glad to hear that the desserts were made in-house and more proof of a diligent back of the house operation. I opted for the raspberry and walnut tart and was thoroughly happy with my decision. The raspberries, walnuts, and a custard sauce served on top of a sweet baked pastry were a perfect ending to my evening.
Old Town Crier
Old Town Crier
November 2013 | 31
BEHIND THE BAR CHESTER SIMPSON
Brandon Wilson taste original. photo: ©2013 Chester Simpson
try rye.
At Copper Fox we malt our own barley, gently kiln dry the grain with soft sweet apple wood and cherry wood smoke, and pot-still in small batches, one barrel at a time.
Sip it. Mix it. Love it.
TM
DISTILLERY ENTERPRISES, L.L.C. SPERRYVILLE, VIRGINIA
Tours daily. Go to www.copperfox.biz
Brandon serves up a Negroni De La Casa with flamed orange peel. He is behind the bar Wednesday through Sunday, 5-10 pm.
How did you get started bartending? Back in the late 90s I worked at Bennigans. One of the bartenders didn’t show up for his shift so I just kind of jumped back there. I had no idea what I was doing but I had a blast! What is your bartender pet peeve? People who snap to get my attention!
brandon wilson IS BEHIND THE BAR AT bond 45 149 front street national Harbor, MD 301-839-1445 bond45.com/ nationalharbor
What’s the best line somebody has used to get a free drink? Wow! Don’t even get me started, there are so many!
What is the best pick up line you’ve heard? A guy just the other day looked at the young lady sitting next to him and calmly said “I lost my number … can I have yours?” Tell us an interesting story? I served drinks to Stevie Wonder a couple times in National Harbor. He really likes high end sake … quite a bit of it. One night his wife looked at him and said “Stevie, I think you’ve had enough.” He turned toward her and smiled and said “It’s ok, baby, I can still drive.” Such a funny guy. Who would you most like to sit down and have a drink with? I’d love to have drinks with Chelsea Handler. I bet she’s a riot! Have a favorite bartender you’d like to see featured here? Send your request to chester@chestersimpson.com.
32 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
CHEF’S SPECIAL CHESTER SIMPSON
Santiago Lopez When did you first become interested in cooking? Why did you decide to pursue a culinary career? As a kid growing up I would help grandma and my mother preparing all kinds of pastries and meals for the rest of the family. I then started cooking for my brother when I first moved to the United States. That was the time of the day I always looked forward to. I decided on a culinary career when I was in college and started working in a pizza shop. I loved it so much that I decided to start working in full service restaurants. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My biggest inspirations have been all of the chefs I have worked with. Also, the new upcoming chefs inspire me with their ideas like foraging, farm to table and sustainable nouvelle cuisine. What dish on the menu are you most curious to see how it is received? This is a difficult one. We are doing a homemade horchata and pumpkin crème brulee. I also want to see how they receive my pan seared market fish with buttercup polenta and chorizo sauce. What do you do to insure the quality of the food going out to guests is of high quality? Culture of excellence. We like to do continuous training with the staff on what it is to live and breathe this concept—from the stewards to the chefs. I think it’s key for everybody to live and breathe a culture of excellence in the hospitality industry.
photo: ©2013 Chester Simpson
SANTIAGO LOPEZ IS THE CHEF AT VIRTUE FEED & GRAIN 106 SOUTH UNION STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 571-970-3669 VIRTUEFEEDGRAIN.com
Chef Lopez proudly presents his Market Fish—Pan Seared Red Snapper with buttercup squash-chorizo beurre blanc, local greens and black garlic vinaigrette.
Old Town Crier
If any chef in the world could prepare a meal for you, who would it be? Jiro Ono. I love Japanese sushi and he is the master. What’s your guilty food pleasure? A big plate of steak, rice, beans and everything else you can throw in it.
If you would like to see your favorite chef featured here, send information to: chester@chestersimpson.com.
November 2013 | 33
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Old Town Crier
THE URBAN GARDEN LANI GERING
Fruits
Some years are better than others, but if you plant enough varieties, you’re bound to get something delicious in return. Apples. Pears. Peaches. Blueberries. Blackberries. Raspberries. Grapes. Pumpkin. Onions. Tomatoes. Leeks. It’s easy to make pies from many of the autumn harvests. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the mix, even try odd, but delicious combinations like pumpkin and grapes, or onion and apples; make it savory with some sauteed chicken with garlic, applesauce, a squeeze of lemon and a touch of whisky or pernod.
Yarrow in the American Landscape
Believed to be both a plant foretelling the future and a medicine,
the Yarrow plant falls into that strange category of ubiquitous or ’common’ plants that brings centuries of migration and cohabitation to light. Yarrow lives all over the world, and has become a companion plant for countless cultures. Fifty-eight stalks are needed to ask a question of the ancient Chinese oracle, the I Ching. It is easy to harvest your Yarrow for this purpose and properly prepared bundles of fiftyeight stalks make great gifts. In the Americas, different traditions portend and retell a time when the Yarrow stalks are drying in the foothill sun, giving us the color and feel of Thanksgiving and plenty seed for next year. During the gold
Turkey Day This & That rush, in this part of the country including the mineral rich rivers of the Sierra and Northern California’s Trinity and Klammath river canyons, Chinese workers and artisans would gather the yarrow each autumn for philosophical activities. With extremely strong cultural ties to ancient traditions of profound thought and artistic accomplishment, finding, gathering and using an ancient companion plant in a new land was one of the simple ways to help keep the community close even in times of strife and uncertainty. The landscapes we live in are all too beautiful and
we give thanks for each passing season. This time for harvest, these landscapes. This planet. Making us plan for the future, enough for winter—food, warmth and friendship—from the earth we receive everything to warm our bones. We have everything to thank. And plants are so very much a part of what we give thanks for at Thanksgiving. More than we think, more than we know. Especially the edible ones; they bring us together for a time. A time of giving thanks to each other, to the harvest, and to every thing good about the earth. Don’t forget the apple pie.
a toast for Thanksgiving
May we keep our rooms warm this winter May the roots remain dry and sweet May the garden’s peat thicken a spade’s length May the trees get a good winter’s sleep Old Town Crier
Five Edible Colors of Thanksgiving orange, yellow, brown, red, green
PumpkiN Corn Turkey Cranberries Greens
The Chrysanthemum is a classic autumn plant. And with such beautiful, long lasting and surprisingly varied blooms. Many have warm, fall colors like copper, deep brick red, pumpkin orange, fire glow, spiced chocolate chip cookies, apple pie, luxurious pillows... Well, you get the picture, Mums help warm up the house for Thanksgiving. Also be sure to bring in the Coleus plants you’ve been tending all summer in pots. They will keep their beauty for quite a while and their colors often mimic autumn themes. Happy Thanksgiving! Publisher’s note: Portions of this column compliments of Dry Creek Garden Company. Please see their website at drycreekgarden.com
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Old Hopes Return Every Year
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GRAPEVINE NEIL WILLIAMSON
home on the farM Weston Farm Vineyard & Winery B Suzie, one of the two winery mascot pups, above, and the B&B on the property
36 | November 2013
etween the sleepy little town of Louisa and The I-64 corridor, Weston Farm Vineyard and Winery is a quiet oasis where wine growing and hospitality meet. Weston is the home of Bobby and Penny Martin and their beloved French bulldogs Charlie and Suzie. The rolling hills of the more than three hundred acre estate is just a stone’s throw from Louisa Courthouse Square.
In 2005, the Martins planted ten acres of vines. The first planting included Norton, Viognier, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2007, they planted an additional two acres of Viognier and Petit Manseng. Originally they thought they would grow and sell the fruit to the many wineries in the Central Virginia region. As they tended the fruit through the early, nonbearing years, the Martins found themselves at a
tipping point—they then decided, “Let’s go all in with a winery and tasting room.” Working with Virginia viticultural veteran Gabriele Rausse, Penny began her winemaking career. Under Rausse’s guidance, Penny has established an understated winemaking style that focuses on the fruit flavor profile producing a more elegant, food friendly wine. While Bobby assists in the wine making tasks, it is clear as he waves from the seat of the tractor, he is most at home working the land in the vineyards. Walking into the tasting room nestled near the rear of the property, one is struck by the Circa 1790 Farmhouse just to the right. The house, remodeled in 2002, now serves as a Bed & Breakfast also operated by the Martins. With its open front porch facing the vineyards, the B&B provides four different room options. Considering its central location, it is no wonder the B&B has served as host to a number of weddings, family reunions and weekend getaways since opening earlier this summer. Working with a local wine touring company, Be Grapeful, the B&B can serve as a home base for a day while touring many other wineries located in the central Virginia region. History buffs love staying at the B&B as well. Looking at a map one can anticipate the strategic import of Louisa in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Patrick Henry lived in and represented Louisa in state government from 1765 to 1768. The Old Town Crier
penny & bobby martin Weston Farm Vineyard and Winery Hometown Charlottesville, Va. Item always in your refrigerator a bottle of peach wine Most challenging wine pairing (and how you solved it) everything goes well with something! Best thing about the Virginia wine industry all the wonderful people Worst thing about the Virginia wine industry bad weather we can’t control Favorite bumper sticker or saying Virginia Makes Wine, Napa Makes Auto Parts Virginia Central Railroad ran through Louisa County and during the Civil War, it was an important supply line for Confederate armies. As I stood in the tasting room, the train’s whistle was audible across the vineyards. As the newest addition to the six member Heart of Virginia Wine Trail, Weston Farm works with Cooper Vineyards, Lake Anna Winery, James River Cellars, Grayhaven and Mattaponi winery to host fun events throughout the year. December 7th and 8th they will be a part of the holiday themed Jingle Bell Wine Trail where each winery will be decked out in their festive finery and visitors purchase a HOVA passport that is honored for tastings at all of the wineries. A tasting at Weston Farm is often accompanied by the melodious snoring of Charlie the Bulldog sleeping behind the bar. While some might find such noise disturbing, I clearly found it comforting as Penny walked me through Weston’s impressive wine portfolio. A true boutique winery, Weston produces about 2,000 cases annually. The 2010 Chardonnay is an excellent example of their generally fruit forward style. Fermented in stainless steel, this chardonnay presents light almost amber in the glass. The nose is filled with apple and tropical flavors. The sharper than average attack includes elements of pear, honeysuckle and fig. The finish is brief, crisp and clean. Old Town Crier
Viognier is Virginia’s official wine grape and Weston Farm’s 2011 Viognier is a good example of the versatility and flexibility of this grape. Stainless steel fermentation means the attack is bright with a great deal of fruit right up front. The midpalate expands slightly to expose pink grapefruit and honeydew melon tones. The finish is light and speedy. The red wine portfolio is unique at Weston Farm because all but the Cabernet Franc and the Meritage are absent any oak influences. Similar stylistically to the stainless steel fermented white wines, the reds tend to be less tannic and more fruit forward due to this winemaking decision. The 2011 Petit Verdot is as dark and inky as most Virginia Petit Verdot tends to be but the comparison stops there. Petit Verdot is classically a blending grape from Bordeaux. Generally aged for 18 to 24 months in oak, the wine usually provides tannic structure and color to blends. In this iteration, the lack of oak accentuates the strawberry undertones of the grape. A slight smokiness remains on the finish but the bright finish is neither long nor tannic. The 2009 Norton was picked early to avoid the onslaught of the rains from a powerful Nor’easter. Norton is such a dark grape to begin with it is not surprising the wine retained its full color. What is surprising, considering the early harvest, is the well-structured
body and expansive mid-palate. The finish lingers nicely with a hint of leather. Tasting the 2010 Norton after the 2009 showcased the differences a year can make. The 2010 is much fruitier with an increased level of complexity across the flavor profile. Of the two red wines that do receive oak treatment, my preference is clearly to the 210 Meritage. A blend of 41% Merlot, 38% Petit Verdot and 21% Cabernet Franc, this wine presents beautifully in the glass with a nice ruby hue. The nose is somewhat closed on first pouring but within five minutes of swirling the sweet aromas of plum and anise reveal themselves. Subtle on the attack, this medium body red really hits its stride in the mid-palate with cascading flavors of stone fruits and an undercurrent of raspberry. The finish is shorter than anticipated but will extend with proper cellaring. This wine will age well particularly in the next 12 to 24 months. I anticipate significantly increased complexity in the end of the mid-palate and the finish. The sweet wines of Weston Farm are truly a delight. The non-vintage Peach has almost a schnapps nose but without the viscosity of the higher alcohol cousin. The nose softens on the attack leading to a gentle midpalate filled with over ripe summer peach notes. One can anticipate serving this with a slightly spicy dish, perhaps tomato based barbeque or
Comfort food chocolate Most embarrassing moment (Penny) Accidently spilling a customer’s glass of red wine down the front of my white shirt in the tasting room. Favorite wine (yours or anyone else’s) Viognier
on the other side of spicy—a rich cheesecake. I hesitate to write about my favorite fruit wine as Penny informed me that she had just eight bottles when I tasted (she only had seven after I left). The nose on this wine is so full one almost expected to see seeds in the bottom of the glass. Delightfully light in body and structure this wine makes an excellent aperitif or parting wine. Penny and Bobby Martin have made their passion for agriculture and wine into their livelihood. Working with some of Virginia’s finest viticulturalists, they are making fine wine home on the farm. Neil Williamson is chairman of the Virginia Wine Club tasting panel and editor of the Virginia Wine Journal. Reach him at editor@vawineclub.com. November 2013 | 37
EXPLORING VIRGINIAWINES DOUG FABBIOLI
Pause & Reflect
T
he seasons are changing once again. The grapevine leaves are falling along with the other leaves in the area. I am looking forward to taking advantage of some down time, but it seems rather elusive. Just as the last of the red grapes get pressed, I am preparing our label order for a December bottling run. As soon as the tasting room gets decorated with pumpkins and fall colors, it is time to order the holiday items that will be displayed and sold. Does this perpetual motion machine have an off switch? I think it is critical to pause and reflect on what has worked well this year and what can use some improvement. I continue to
hear positive feedback about our winery and the others across Virginia. We all put a lot of energy into training our teams, caring for our vines and babying the wines into the bottle. It is great to receive recognition for the quality from so many people. I do recognize the fact that there are probably some folks that have issues when they realize that the little gem of a winery that they discovered a few years ago is not so little anymore. That challenge is one that many successful businesses face. How can you grow a business to a sustainable size and not lose the small, cozy feeling? Some wineries have wellconstructed business plans while others (like ours) grow and change with the grapes available and the
Visiting Virginia’s Wine Country It’s always a good idea to call before visiting. Many Virginia wineries are small, familyowned operations and may be closed during the time you are planning to visit. If you are a group of eight or more, call ahead to help the winery prepare for your visit and to make sure they can accept groups. Most of our wineries have grape cluster highway signs within a ten-mile radius pointing the way to the winery. Many of these signs also tell you how many miles to go before reaching the winery.
38 | November 2013
I do recognize the fact that there are probably some folks that have issues when they realize that the little gem of a winery they discovered a few years ago is not so little anymore. particular demands of our customers. My challenge is trying to understand how to slow (or stop) the growth in order to plan better and be sustainable. I also do not want our customers’ experience or the wine quality to be a victim of our rapid growth. Recognizing this challenge is important but doing something about it is important as well. When I talk with
landowners who are interested in planting grapes, I tell them to plant 30 vines or 3000. There is little room for success in between. The wineries do not seem to have as big a gap between hobby and business but maybe I have just been lucky to bridge the gap well. Where is the topping out point for our winery? Or where is it for the state, for that matter? We all need more grapes in
A small, family winery focused on quality, sustainable farming and our community Visit us and other quality wineries on the Loudoun Wine Trail–www.loudounfarms.org Serving your local red wine needs since 2006 Open Daily 11am - 5pm Educational wine events
the ground to fill the demand from this past year, let alone the next 10. That is my biggest push for 2014 and for the next few years. I feel like my own worst enemy in how I continue to see opportunities to grow. My wife keeps saying ok, the bills are eventually paid and I get to keep growing with a fabulous industry. What could be wrong with that? I guess a little time to rest would be nice.
Fabbioli Cellars Douglas Fabbioli Colleen M. Berg 15669 Limestone School Rd Leesburg 703-771-1197 www.fabbioliwines.com
Old Town Crier
GREENHILL W I N E RY & V I N E YA R D S
Our Hours:
April thru September: Noon until Sunset October until March: Noon until 7PM WWW.GREENHILLVINEYARDS.COM 23595 WINERY LANE MIDDLEBURG, VA 20117
Tasting Room Hours - Open Year Round Thursday-Saturday, & Monday 11-5 pm • Sunday 12 pm (noon)- 5 pm Now available at La Bergerie The Grille at the Morrison House and the12/23/2010 Virginia Shop Mention or bring this ad restaurant, for a complimentary tasting for two through
Bedford County Wine Trail bedfordwinetrail.com The Bedford Wine Trail in the Central Virginia region includes five vineyards and wineries surrounding Bedford.
10100 Three Fox Ln. • Delaplane, VA • 540-364-6073
Taste the Altitude! Climb the Mountain— Stone Mountain Vineyards
VIRGINIA WINE Trail Profiles
Blue Ridge Wine Way www.blueridgewineway.com The Blue Ridge Wine Way features eight wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains of the Northern Virginia region. Botetourt County Wine Trail botetourtwinetrail.com The Wine Trail of Botetourt Country features 3 wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
GOVERN2006 O GOLD MR’S CUP E WINNE DAL R
Eastern Shore Wine Trail esvatourism.org The Eastern Shore of Virginia Wine Trail hosts three wineries along the Land Between Two Waters. This area is a unique rural coastal environment. Hundreds of miles of Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay shoreline provide a wealth of recreational opportunities for beachlovers, fishermen, and boaters in addition to wine lovers. Fauquier County Wine Trail fauquiertourism.com/wineries.html Fauquier County is home to 16 wineries and vineyards —each with its own unique flavors. Enjoy awardwinning Virginia wines, wine tastings and tours. Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail svwga.org The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail is an association of six vineyards and wineries.
Call: 434-990-WINE
Loudoun Wine Trail visitloudoun.org Loudoun’s Wine Trail in Northern Virginia takes you through Virginia’s hunt country to 23 participating wineries.
1376 Wyatt Mountain Road Dyke, Virginia 22935
www.StoneMountainVineyards.com
info@stonemountainvineyards.com
Town Crier Ad 1/4 page ad 6"w x 6.5"h 6/07
For More Information: virginiawine.org Old Town Crier
Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail chesapeakebaywinetrail.com The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, in the Chesapeake Bay region, highlights six different wineries. Heart of Virginia Wine Trail www.hovawinetrail.com The Heart of Virginia Wine Trail in Central Virginia presents several events throughout the year at four wineries located in the central region of the state. Blue Ridge Wine Trail blueridgewinetrail.com The Blue Ridge Wine Trail features five wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains all within minutes of the Blue Ridge Parkway. General’s Wine & History Trail thegeneralswinetrail.com In 2009, 10 wineries banded together to form a new type wine trail experience. The new wine trail experience was to tie our rich wine heritage with our rich historical heritage and thus the General’s Wine & History Trail was born. Monticello Wine Trail monticellowinetrail.com The Monticello Wine Trail leads to 24 wineries from its hub in Charlottesville. Source: Virginia Wine Marketing Office
November 2013 | 39
GO FISH STEVE CHACONAS
Stay the Course! Richard Schwartz, founder of BoatUS, the Boat Owners Association of the United States
I
always wanted BoatUS Insurance coverage, but they didn’t offer guide coverage. My desire was based on my bass buddy Jim Wrenn’s experience. His Evinrude outboard had blown a power head three times in 6 months. At the end of his patience he contacted BoatUS. They went to bat for him and Evinrude stepped up with a new engine. While this was commendable, it happened about two weeks before Evinrude filed for Chapter 11 protection. Evinrude likely was aware of the impending bankruptcy, but with BoatUS looking over their shoulder, they did the right thing. Schwartz created the only Consumer Protection Bureau for boaters seeking redress with manufacturers. I was impressed, but continually disappointed as they had not entered the bass guide market.
Bassing IN novemBER Potomac River
Hard cover and scattered grass better targets. Time to pull out the squarebill cranks, lipless cranks, spinnerbaits, and chatterbaits. Look for opportunities to toss topwater poppers like the Lucky Craft G-Splash and walkers like the Lucky Craft Gunfish as good lures to cover water looking for clear water, calm water and lower tides. Fish hollow Mann’s Super Frogs on 60-pound GAMMA Torque braided line over floating matted grass any time of day!
40 | November 2013
In the BoatUS Alexandria Headquarters lobby, a wall map displays colored lights indicating customer location and numbers. Missing was the inshore boater. Big boaters were aware of BoatUS, the Association, the insurance and Towboat US. Inland boaters were small fish to most insurers. BoatUS was prepared to make a big splash in the small boat pond. Mike Pellerin, then Fishing Division Director, asked a boatload of questions. Aboard my Skeeter, he noted rods, lures, and special fishing equipment. The BoatUS Angler Program was created and, to my delight, a topnotch guide fishing policy! Richard Schwartz created the Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) and for the past 47 years advocated for boat owners GO FISH > PAGE 44
Mann’s Baby 1-Minus and Baby X can be cranked around wood and snapped free from grass. Use 12-pound test GAMMA Copoly or Edge fluorocarbon line. White, craw patterns and black/blue chatterjigs in the same line can also be fished in these areas! Finding clear water, swim Mann’s HardNose Swimbaits with 7/0 Mustad ¼ ounce swimbait hooks on 16-pound test GAMMA Edge around wood. Swim Mann’s Stone jigs in white, craw patterns and black and blue on a fast reel like the Quantum EXO with a 7-foot rod for long casts. Drop shot, shaky heads and other finesse techniques including MIZMO tubes with insert heads will work around docks or other hard cover drops. Soak soft plastics in garlic flavored Jack’s Juice.
Old Town Crier
FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT
Bosu Dumbbell Side Raise
❶
I
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can’t believe it’s already November! This year has been a crazy one. My wife and I decided to pursue new careers. I was accepted into a diagnostic medical imaging program back in July to learn about echocardiography and vascular sonography. After 21 months, I’ll be able to scan hearts, arteries, and veins using ultrasound. The acceptance was exciting, but required us to relocate to the Denver area. It’s taken some time adjusting to the big city, but in the midst of major life changes, we’ve managed to keep exercise a part of our regular routine. The next two months will be no exception especially during the holiday season. I challenge you to include exercise as a part of your life even during the turbulent times. At the very least, it can alleviate stress that may burden you. With that in mind, this month’s exercise is the Bosu Dumbbell Side Raise. It challenges your balance and coordination plus builds upper-body strength all in one exercise! The DB side raise targets the muscles of the shoulders and upper back. Standing on top of a Bosu Balance Trainer will test your balance. Trying to do both simultaneously requires some coordination. To start, grab a Bosu and a pair of DBs. I should mention here that the amount of air inside a Bosu will determine its balance difficulty. A greater amount of air (firmer) provides a more stable surface making it easier to balance. A smaller amount of air (softer) provides a less Old Town Crier
stable surface making it harder to balance. Now that we got that straight, step on top of the Bosu of your choice with DBs in hand. Place the feet hip-width distance apart, knees slightly bent, and bring eyes forward before attempting to lift the DBs (Fig 1). The objective is to avoid looking down at the ground or feet during this exercise to reap its full benefit. Dumbbells should be held parallel at your sides. Lift them up and out to the side until they reach the level of the shoulders (Fig 2). The arms should remain straight but elbows not locked out. You can briefly pause at the top before lowering the DBs with control back to the start position. This lower phase should take longer than the lifting aspect. Try three sets of 12-15 reps. Any movement can change your center of gravity on the Bosu, therefore focus on maintaining it throughout the exercise. A number of variations exist to challenge yourself, but I suggest closing your eyes once you master this exercise. Enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends—just eat and drink in moderation. Remember the challenge: Incorporate exercise into your life even during the turbulent times. Unverzagt holds a BS in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He is an active member of the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA).
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FITNESS NICOLE FLANAGAN
T
he holiday season doesn’t just represent one day of overeating, it’s an extended period of time where there is more, alcohol, more snacks, and more appetizers that contain many more calories that are actually necessary. Media stories suggest that the average person gains seven to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. In surveys, people say they gain, on average, about five pounds this time of year. However, several studies now show that the average weight gain during the winter holidays is just one pound. This news isn’t all good. According to the National Institute of Health, most people don’t ever lose the pound of weight they put on during the holidays. The average weight gain during adulthood is about one to two pounds a year, which means much of
Staying Fit for the Holidays midlife weight-gain can be explained by holiday eating. The key to maintain a healthy weight during the holidays is to monitor your portions. Of course this can be hard when the temptations are endless. For one, never arrive at a party hungry. It’s easy to over-eat when you arrive at a party and you’re starving. Try having a healthy snack and a glass of water before you head out. Opt for water or club soda instead of alcohol. Drinking alcohol not only adds on empty calories, it also inhibits your ability to control what you eat. Many people will eat more when consuming alcohol than if they were only drinking nonalcoholic beverages. Not to mention it will make you feel much better for your morning workout! Sticking to your workout plan will also play a big role in how your holiday season plays out. It’s a busy time of
year and it is easy to get caught up with everything else going on. Your Monday morning spin class or that personal training appointment should remain on the top of your priority list. For one reason, that workout is going to give you the extra energy necessary to keep you going through your busy week. Exercise makes you work more efficiently, and helps you sleep better. Also knowing that you have to meet with your trainer in the morning will keep you focused when going out for a holiday party. When cooking this holiday season limit your quality control taste testing. I must say that I am guilty of this, but a lot of the times when cooking I like to taste throughout the cooking or baking process. The problem here is that it adds extra calories, and by the time the dish is made I have already eaten enough calories to count for a meal, and I’m full for dinner. Of
course when we are all doing much more baking, all those extra tasting calories can really add up. This holiday season make an honest effort to control portions, limit tasting while cooking, and meet with your trainer or gym buddy on a regular basis and you can keep that holiday weight-gain under control. Remember that just gaining one pound can add up unless you can really lose it after the holiday season is over. Although, if losing that weight was so easy in the first place, then I guess we would have nothing to make New Year’s resolutions over. Publisher’s note: This column is a repeat of Nicole’s Nov. 2011 column. She has moved to Boston and on to new adventures. We will continue to print her sage advice, however, and wish her much happiness in Bean Town.
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42 | November 2013
Old Town Crier
FIRST BLUSH GENEVIEVE LEFRANC
Headstrong
floral
A
utumn can be a tricky time for beauty. For many of us it’s somewhat of an awkward in-between season in which our skin is losing the last of its sun kissed summer glow; where your skin isn’t quite oily but not quite dry, either; your leg stubble becomes less of a concern; and your hair dull, limp, and suffering from early onset static. It’s easy to look blah and feel blah in this pre-holiday season slump. From fancy airbrushed spray tans, extensive waxing treatments, and high-maintenance highlights, you can spend a king’s ransom remedying most of these cold weather beauty blues, and with gift shopping right around the corner most folks are trying to save a buck. So why not look to one of the fastest, simplest, and cheapest ways to give yourself a little pick-me-up— the headband! Lazy girls rejoice! With practically zero effort, headbands give your locks a break from the blow dryer, hide bed-head and gym hair, rein in unruly flyaways, and polish up any look in a cinch. Plus it’s a welcomed change from your standard winter beanie. Adorning your noggin with a Old Town Crier
bejeweled
simple
little unexpected flair is an effortless way to stay on trend this Fall, not to mention rake in the compliments from coworkers and commuters alike. Seen everywhere, from the catwalk to the sidewalk, there are so many styles of headbands and scarves currently in vogue that there’s a look to suit every personality and occasion. From a Rosie the Riveter head scarf look to a glammed out sparkle crown, there’s something for everyone. When your mane is looking as bleak and dreary as the bitter November weather and you can’t bear to bother with fussy hot tools or hair-mashing hats, simply top off your look with the perfect chic headpiece.
scarf
bit of sparkle never fails to jazz up lifeless, cold weather hair. This style adds a dose of romantic glamour and sophistication to your look, and makes any outfit instantly dressier and more feminine. Just don’t go anywhere near the tiara look! I love delicate, tasteful bejeweled headbands sitting atop an expertly mussed updo or nestled into sexy bedroom curls for a look that works particularly well for evening events, winter weddings, and especially candlelit date nights.
beauty and something to be admired. It’s actually a lot harder than it looks, but when you get it right a cute silk scarf can become a look-transforming piece of magic. Whether you’re looking for flair or masking a bad hair day, scarves are an underrated, retro approach to switching up your hair looks. Search online for video tutorials or step-by-step photos on how to tie headscarves into some truly interesting looks—everything from twisty turbans to nautical knots.
Simple
Turban
Garland-esque floral headbands give off that groovy, laid back, music festival vibe and their vibrant colors and whimsical nature are perfect for brightening up a gloomy day when all you see are bare branches and fallen leaves. Wear with long, loose waves to a beach bonfire or casual brunch with the girls.
If you’re more of a function over fashion kinda gal, a simple but chic headband will work wonders for your routine. Whether you’re looking for something to hold back your hair while you grow out your bangs; something basic and understated for work; or just something you can throw on for running errands or the gym, sleek, skinny, low key headbands are the way to go. Think neutral colors and fabrics and wear with anything from a gym ponytail to a sleek boardroom chignon.
Bejeweled
Scarf
Floral
Whether ornate and blinged out or understated and simple, a little
turban
Wearing an expertly tied scarf knotted in your hair is a thing of
Turbans are very on trend this season and are really easy for everyone to rock. They’re a little retro, a lot hip, and actually keep your ears warm. Plus the knotted style and stretchy fabric material won’t flatten a voluminous blowout or give you matted hat hair. These styles look great with hair up or down, but I love slipping one down over your hair and ears for that toocool-for-school hipster vibe. Genevieve LeFranc holds a BA in writing, rhetoric and communication from James Madison University. She researches and writes about the beauty and fashion industries. November 2013 | 43
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GO FISH FROM PG 40
and operated a nationwide discount marine retail chain with 62 BoatUS retail stores. In the early 1960s it wasn’t much of a stretch to visualize Schwartz, a young Princeton and Yale Law School graduate and anti-trust attorney, establishing the nation’s largest and most influential recreational boating organization. While a guest on a friend’s boat, the friend was given a ticket for something Schwartz felt was unfair and not the boater’s responsibility. Discovering there was no one fighting for the interests of boaters, BoatUS was conceived, adopting a mission of "service, savings and representation." Listing his accomplishments would take away from boating time. Anyone enjoying time on the water owes Schwartz a salute. His Capitol Hill testimony resulted in the watershed Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971, giving the US Coast Guard the power to hold
programs. The BoatUS Magazine has become the largest boating magazine in the country with over half a million circulation. Schwartz also changed insurance policy gobbledygook when introducing BoatUS insurance in 1967. The most recognizable mantle of BoatUS services are the red BoatUS Towing boats replacing the Coast Guard’s on-the-water assistance in the 1980’s when Congress ordered cessation of Coast Guard tows! Last year, BoatUS halted an effort by a company petitioning the Government to implement a new wireless band. Sounded good until BoatUS revealed this would be a disaster for GPS, a system boaters rely on for navigation safety. This living legend has a locker full of accolades. At 83, Schwartz says BoatUS has become the largest US boat owners organization by fighting boating battles! Life is better and safer for boaters who have access to services that make the boating experience
Listing Schwartz’s accomplishments would take away from boating time. Anyone enjoying time on the water owes him a salute. manufacturers accountable for certain safety standards. It also led to the creation of the US Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety, a lifesaving move! Schwartz sought legislation to legally protect boater rights, contributing to the passage of the Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Act of 1979 that directed taxes and fees paid by boaters to support boating programs. He opposed the luxury tax (1992) and diesel fuel tax (1997), both repealed! The Granddaddy of boating legislation, the 1984 federal Wallop/Breaux Trust Fund Amendment that now returns over $650 million annually to federal and state boating and fishing programs, has been credited to Schwartz! The pearl of Schwartz’s tireless efforts influenced boating safety on a national level with the BoatUS 501(c) 3 nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. This program ranges from free Online Boating Safety Courses to the only nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids and EPIRB rental
better. On July 1, Schwartz turned the rudder of the nation’s #1 boat-owners advocate to BoatUS President Margaret Bonds Podlich. "He proved that boaters…could unite to solve their challenges. It is an all-inclusive approach to recreational boating issues that got results and this philosophy will remain the core of BoatUS. There are so many of us who have benefited from his range of work and expertise." Schwartz remains on board as Chairman of the BoatUS Board of Directors as well as Chairman of the BoatUS National Advisory Council. BoatUS continues to keep both oars in the water on a steady course to float everyone’s boat. Capt. Steve Chaconas is a Potomac bass fishing guide, and a BoatUS “Ask the Expert” (http:// my.boatus.com/askexperts/bassfishing/) Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com. To book trips/ purchase gift certificates: info@NationalBass. com. Old Town Crier
SINGLE SPACE LORI WELCH
Dear Steve, Put down your fishing rod and sit down. It finally happened. I’m engaged.
I’
ve been waiting a long time to write those words to my fellow columnist, Steve Chaconas. He’s enjoyed at least a decade of being entertained by my dating stories of both woe and “whoa!” “But Lori, I don’t get it,” he’d say as he was drawing back to cast his line. “What are these guys thinking? More importantly, what are YOU thinking?” Now the question is, “what took you so long?” The truth of the matter, I guess, is that I just wasn’t ready. It literally took meeting the right guy—actually, let me rephrase that—letting the right guy into my life. I guess you could say that for most of my dating life I was ’otherwise engaged’ in allowing the wrong men into my life. For those of you who have been a serial reader of Single Space, you likely know and appreciate my dating journey and maybe it’s even helped yours or at least provided some “Oh no, she didn’t!” moments and laughs. As I recently told my good friend, Lisa, I feel like the poster child for Kay Jewelers. If nothing else, perhaps you’ve picked up a nugget of wisdom along the way or maybe I’ve spared you from a dating faux pas or twelve. No doubt I made pretty much every mistake there is to make and then some. The most important lesson for me in my dating and relationship journey, however, was to understand that at the end of the day, I deserved better. I was picking (and letting myself be picked by) the wrong people and scratching my head wondering why it wasn’t working. Duh. It wasn’t working because he was an alcoholic or he had commitment issues or he was narcissistic or he was an a-hole or he was [fill in the blank]. I allowed myself to be treated poorly on many occasions and put up with a lot of stuff that I shouldn’t have, and it didn’t feel good. Let’s face it, I wasn’t scratching my head, I was hitting my head into
Old Town Crier
the proverbial brick wall. And, it hurt. A lot. In my own mind, I thought I was making poor choices because I wanted a relationship so badly that I was trying to make Mr. Right Now fit into my picture of happiness. Looking back, however, I think that the truth of the matter was that I was subconsciously throwing up barricades because I was scared to commit. I was terrified of letting down my walls and letting someone really
waitress as I’m sitting across from him. All of those things and more were part of my journey and they were icky and awful. It took meeting XXL for me to realize that it was time to put up or shut up. He was the real deal and he wasn’t backing down so it was time to let someone in. Trust me, I played it super cool at first. I never played games with him; some part of my mature brain knew he wouldn’t put up with that, and I’m not really a game player. What I did was keep him
Otherwise Engaged know me. From outward appearances, you probably wouldn’t think that was the case as I have a lot of people I’m honored to call my friends. Letting that one person really ’in’ just wasn’t happening. Trust that I’m not saying this smuggly, but finding love for me meant truly understanding what I brought to the table (warts and all) and really looking at the person sitting across from me at the table. I mean really looking at him and not his perfect lips or mysterious dark eyes. It meant looking at the man and wondering if he was going to be the one who would show up and call when he said he was and stay true to his word and be consistent and honor me and make me laugh and care about my feelings and not want to do anything to lose my trust. At the end of the day, that’s the man I wanted to spend my life with, not the guy who never answers his phone or has an excuse for why he didn’t show at my friend’s birthday party or who flirts with the
at arm’s length for as long as I could (which wasn’t long). XXL was smart enough to know what was going on and patiently waited for me to come around. Lucky for me. The other part of the equation for me was learning to be happy and content on my own. For those of you who are feeling really single in this moment, trust that I can appreciate how hard that can be some days, especially with the approaching holidays. I’ve always said that living a single life is not for wusses. It takes courage and strength and a lot of perseverance. You really have to dig your heels in and wallow in your singleness before you can truly find a place of peace and contentment. Spending time with yourself and knowing who you really are (not the ’you’ who shows up at weddings and happy hours) is a powerful thing and not to be taken for granted. The actual engagement happened on my recent birthday. XXL totally surprised me which is no easy task
in itself. I thought I was getting date night, but I got date night with a diamond! Woot, woot! We had discussed marriage and I knew it was inevitable, but thought the proposal was a while off. I’m a Virgo (procrastinator) so, left to my own devices, I would have probably made some lists, weighed the pros and cons, and come up with ten reasons why we should wait for a more opportune time. Good thing for me that XXL is a take charge/make stuff happen kinda guy so he wasn’t waiting around for the ’perfect’ time (there’s never one) to take the next step. God knows that it was a long enough journey finding each other so when you realize he or she is the one, it’s time to get the party started! I stopped being ’otherwise engaged’ and let myself be fully engaged—engaged and committed to being with someone who truly cares about me, loves me unconditionally and enjoys my company (on most days). I am committed to being fully engaged with someone whom I care about and love and cherish for all the right reasons. Color me engaged in that endeavor. The moral of the story is that our engagement wouldn’t have happened unless I was ready for it and ready for my own version of Mr. Right. If I hadn’t been ready, Mr. Right, aka XXL, would have not called for that second date and I wouldn’t be sporting this beautiful piece of bling. Did I mention it’s beautiful? Don’t worry. I’m not going to drop everyone now that I’m a plus one. As in life, we have options. We can cast the net for a new single writer. God knows it’s time for me to pass the baton. Or, you can share this next chapter with me. Cramped Space? Happy Space? Relationship Space? Double Space? The journey is ours. We will figure it out. If you would like to comment or broach a subject for my column, contact me at mysinglespace@aol.com November 2013 | 45
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ith the myriad of Fall events and the weekly American Market concluding in October, the first two weeks of November take on a sense of relaxation, only to start getting psyched up for the holiday hoopla at the Harbor that will ensue with the opening of ICE (see By Lani Gering Gaylord Resort ad, pg. 48, for information on everything happening with Christmas on the Potomac) on the 15th. With preparations being made for said hoopla, there are lots of things going on behind the scenes while on the outside things appear quite laid back. If you aren’t crazy about being in a crowd, venture to the harbor early in the month. The prelude to the holidays finds the number of conventions tapering off at the Gaylord Hotel and Resort as they gear up for the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Old Hickory Steakhouse is an incredible place for that special dinner or just a great way to treat yourself to one of the area’s great steaks. For the sports fan, National Past Time is the place to be—there is no sport left uncovered in this place. This year the Gaylord is hosting two Thanksgiving dinner options on the 28th. There will be a “Grand” buffet style dinner served on the lower level at Pienza from Noon to 5 pm with all of the traditional offerings on top of their regular menu. Reservations are suggested but not required. A Thanksgiving “Feast” will be set atop the hotel’s 18th floor at the Pose Rooftop with spectacular views of the city. Guests ´ will indulge in a menu of traditional Thanksgiving offerings served family style, followed by an incredible dessert buffet complete with assorted holiday pies. There is limited availability for this dinner and pre-purchase of tickets is recommended. They will be serving from 1 to 4:30 pm with the last seating at 3:30. Tickets and reservations for both are available via GaylordNationalTickets.com or by calling 301-965-4000. You can also beat the holiday shopping crowds if you want to get an early start. There are new stores opening up every month. It is amazing how much the retail market has grown in the last five years. I have been a huge fan of Stonewall Kitchen’s catalog for years and like me, I am sure many of you have ordered items from them in your lifetime. The products are high in quality and vary in selection. I don’t do a lot of online shopping so I relish (no pun intended since Stonewall sells lots of it) the fact that I can actually shop in a Stonewall Kitchen store. It’s a much more pleasurable shopping experience since you get to sample the wares. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the several great places to dine at the Harbor. Some of our favorites are Public House, Harrington’s Pub and Kitchen, McLoone’s Pier House and of course the places in the Gaylord (hey, we aren’t that dense—gotta support our advertisers since they pay the printing bill). Each of these venues offers something different and are worth venturing into on a regular basis. Actually, do yourself a big favor and check out Chef Ron’s fall menu at Public House and treat yourself to the Chicken Pot Pie at Harrington’s! You won’t be disappointed. After living at the Harbor for the last two years, I have a great appreciation for what it takes to maintain this jewel in the metro area. National Harbor’s Milt Peterson truly does subscribe to the “It takes a village” concept. From something as complicated as keeping the lighting in the harbor in sync to the simple task of keeping litter off the streets, everyone pulls their weight. Hopefully they are all eating their “Wheaties” in preparation for the holidays since they go all out at the Harbor!
WATERFRONT DINING
NationalHarbor.com
46 | November 2013
1-877-NATLHBR
Old Town Crier
C S
C S
A S
D S
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Loc Riv Wil from and Ale Mt. from
FAC
HAPPY THANKSGIVING $30 per person ($12.99 Children 12 or under) • noon to 7 pm enjoy our Family style thanksgiving dinner Choose one
Over half a million easy appetizers created with our delicious savory spreads each year
Roasted Turkey with Onion Gravy | Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham |Fried Catfish Filet Accompanied By Sweet Rolls and House Made Cranberry Sauce|Add Crabcakes for $10 more per person
your ChoiCe oF Five sides
Marshmallow Candied Yams |Parmesan Mashed Potatoes |Macaroni and Cheese |Corn Bread Stuffing Sauteed Southern Green Beans with Sweet Onions and Julienned Carrots |Collard Greens (pork free) Steamed Broccoli |Herb Roasted Mushrooms with Garlic Butter
dessert station
Assorted Cakes |Assorted Pies |Assorted Muffins and Danishes
301.839.0815 • mcloonespierhousenh.com 141 national plaza • national harbor, md
national Harbor Calendar of Events November 29 National Harbor Tree Lighting 7 pm • Free national harbor company store
November 30 – January 5 Harbor Tree Light Show Every 30 minutes after sunset until 10 pm November 29 – December 20 Holiday Fireworks 7 pm • Free November 30 – December 21 Carousel Rides With Santa 12-2 pm • $$ November 30 – January 5 Holiday Market Saturdays & Sundays • 12-5 pm November 29 – January 5 Just Add Ice! Drink specials at participating restaurants Need to present your ticket to ICE! November 29 – January 5 Ice Skating Rink • $$ November 29 – December 21 Holiday Caroling & Entertainment Fridays and Saturdays Old Town Crier
170 American Way | National Harbor, MD | 301.749.6902
stonewallkitchen.com | Like us on Facebook
NATIONAL HARBOR CUISINE BAJA FRESH MEXICAN 186 Waterfront Street 301-839-1377
Harrington’s Pub and Kitchen 177 Fleet Street 301-909-2505 harringtonspubandkitchen.com Enjoy traditional Irish fare at National Harbor’s newest restaurant!
BOND 45 149 Waterfront Street 301-839-1445
KETCHUP 152 Waterfront Street 301-749-7099
CADILLAC RANCH 186 Fleet St. 301-839-1100 cadillacranchgroup.com All-American cuisine
McCORMICK & SCHMICK 145 National Plaza 301-567-6224
AROMA D’ITALI 156 National Plaza 301-839-3492
ELEVATION BURGER 108 Waterfront Street 301-749-4014 FIORELLA PIZZERIA E CAFFE 152 National Plaza 301-839-1811 GRACE’S MANDARIN 188 Waterfront Street 301-839-3788
McLOONE’S PIER HOUSE 141 National Harbor Plaza 301-839-0815 mcloonespierhousenh.com NATIONAL PAST TIME SPORTS BAR & GRILLE Gaylord Hotel 301-965-4000
National Harbor Dining Guide
OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE Gaylord Hotel 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com PIENZA ITALIAN MARKET Gaylord Hotel 301-965-4000 POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS 146 National Plaza 301-686-1160 PUBLIC HOUSE 199 Fleet Street 240-493-6120 publichousenationalharbor.com Whether it’s lunch, happy hour, dinner or a late night party, we can meet your needs. ROSA MEXICANA 135 Waterfront Street 301-567-1005 SAUCIETY AMERICAN GRILL 171 Waterfront Street 240-766-3640 THAI PAVILLION 151 American Way 301-749-2022
November 2013 | 47
All Your Holiday Fun is Right Across the River at Gaylord National Resort! Join us this season for our award-winning Christmas on the Potomac Celebration featuring exciting events, activities and dining from November 15, 2013 to January 5, 2014. ice! featuring ’twas the night before christmas
See Ma in her kerchief, Saint Nick and other famous scenes from the classic Christmas poem, all carve in life-size ice sculptires. Slide down two-story ice slides and experience a NEW BONUS SCENE: “Christmas in New York City.”
gingy’s gingerbread decorating
Come make tasty treats with Gingy! Choose from a variety of delectable gingerbread options to create your own delicious masterpiece.
madagascar crack-a-lackin’ cook-in – Most Weekends
Join King Julien, Alex the Lion and their friends during a special breakfast fit for the King of the Jungle.
gourmet holiday cake pop experience – Select dates in Decemeber
Create your own professional looking cake pop with this interactive class. The experience includes breakfast at Pienza, a demonstration led by our pastry team, and a special kit.
brunch with santa – December 8th, 15th and 22nd
Delight in a menu of traditional brunch favorites served family-style including an incredible dessert buffet with the big guy himself, high atop of the hotel’s 18th floor overlooking National Harbor and the Potomac River.
peeps & company® potomac express NATIONAL HARBOR > PAGE 48
Hop aboard our miniature train for a “Peep-tastic” time. Kids will love taking a ride around on this PEEPS®– inspired and decorated train – all to celebrate America’s beloved yellow marshmallow treat!
spectacular decor
Including over two million lights, nightly fountain shows and indoor snowfall.
www.ChristmasOnThePotomac.com
| (301) 965-4000
Located in National Harbor, Maryland, minutes from Old Town Alexandria and D.C. *Events and activities listed may involve additional fees. Reservations recommended. Shrek, Madagascar and all related characters and properties © 2013 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C.
GN13EV001[ad]ICE!_OldTownCrier2_9-625x6-5.indd 1
48 | November 2013
10/24/13 1:57 PM
Old Town Crier
NOVEMBER
“Give Thanks and Joy to all this Holiday Season” One hundred thousand welcomes to our entire friend’s and patrons this November and the festive Season. We have so much to be thankful for at our 112 King Street home for over the years Daniel O’Connells has become a cornerstone of Hospitality and culinary delights so much so that we are proud to say we are now part of the furniture. We invite you all to relax in our comfortable antique surrounding’s born in Ireland raised in Old Town Alexandria. For O’Connells is a unique blend of Antique Artifacts from Old Irish Pubs, Castles, Monastery’s, Courts and Country Manors shipped 4527 miles from Irelands Oldest City Waterford and every corner has a story to tell.With a warm Irish welcome enjoy meeting our friendly staff while tasting the new exciting fusion of our culinary delights emerging from our modern Irish Kitchen. Over the year’s O’Connells has blossomed into a special live music venue every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. We also have our unique library of special music for you to enjoy with the very best of Irish, Americano, Pop, Rock, Country and sweet Melody to transcend generations of musical culture. To old friends and new we look forward to you being our guest over the festive season and we thank you so much at O’Connells as we have been blessed and privileged with so many wonderful people . 112 to the King “O’Connells you I’ll never know unless you go”
Great live music
Chef Steff’s Special Menus
“There’s no party like an O’Connells ”
Know what’s coming around the corner
Private Rooms up to 100 people. Book Now for Holiday Season
Bookings & Party line: 703.739.1124 oconnellsrestaurant@gmail.com
O’Connells Kitchen Corner Dublin’s own Chef Steff Gormley along with Ali and our culinary crew have been cooking up a Kitchen storm of late with special harvest dishes and our winter menu just rolled out. Over the last few weeks we have been offering tantalizing menu options for the Holiday season. For a cosy dinner with friends or Parties for every event up to one hundred people we have a menu to tantalize your taste buds and a special corner in O’Connells just for you. Just contact Trini for all Party needs at 703-739-1124 or email oconnellsrestaurant@gmail.com
Chef Steff Gormley
112, King Street, Old Town, Alexandria Find out more: www.danieloconnells.com
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2400 Main LinE BOULEVaRD, aLExanDRia, ViRginia 22301 • phOnE (866) 711-6237 • pULTE.COM/pOTOMaCYaRD Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Square footage shown is approximate. Elevations are the artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. Please see a sales consultant for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Equal Housing Opportunity. MHBR #516. © 2013 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved.