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contents

closeups

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history’s stories:concerning dogs Our heritage: the waller family of spotsylvania

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what’s in A enigma?: martha stevens

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mental health: resilience, bend but not break

gary the goose fxbg unofficial mascot

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emancipated patients: medical aid in dying.

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the health benefits of gratitude Life coaching: lack of self-love

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Linda Warshaw celebrates 30 years w/art first

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auto known better: breaker one nine

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dr.marceline catlett leading at the speed of change

art in the ’burg ...galleries in february

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bowling green scene tinder jewelry

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cover artist judith muffley

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companions: I Heart You

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astrology & you poetryman: pause & consider

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fredericksburg sketches

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Porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

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everything greens: why i adore dtg

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In the Garden: february planning & planting

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growing & crawling: haircap moss

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...And More!

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i have a friend: smiling is important

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tidbits...small bites of local news

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season’s bounty: romance of food

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Spirits: bourbon cocktails

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vino: winter in the vineyard

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kerri barile & lisa erickson

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Calendar of Events

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around town: sunken well tavern

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black history month celebrated @umw

Cover: “Gary and the Golden Hour” By Judith Muffley

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February 2022

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Black History Month the james farmer multicultural center celebration justice and to build relationships to establish a broader community network'" the James Farmer Multicultural Center is the perfect venue for this celebration of Black History.

Its namesake was one of the foremost leaders of the Civil Rights movement who organized the nation's first civil rights sit-iin in Chicago, founded the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), and organized the Freedom courageous Emancipation Day celebration, 1900 Rides to desegregate The James Farmer Multicultural interstate bus travel, whose first stop was Center invites all to join them for a here in Fredericksburg. month-long celebration of Black History Month, with a plethora of programs that feature a broad spectrum of genres and content, all of which convey the 2022 theme, "Healing through History: Recognizing our Struggles while Celebrating our Triumphs."

The month's offerings range from elements of popular culture, such as a Family Feud night and karaoke, to African Americans' contributions, to the arts, music, science, and politics, to presentations of the daunting challenges and struggles of Black people in America and the triumphs of heroic figures who, with resilience and determination, achieved against the odds and provide inspiration for others to do the same.

The Black History Month program was created from suggestions received from UMW faculty, staff, and students and the community in response to a call for proposals, and the schedule was created by a committee chaired by the Multicultural Center's assistant director, Chris Williams.

"The month's offerings range from educational, academic lecture programs to entertainment that also showcases an aspect of African American life and culture," said the Center's director Marion Sanford. "In addition, four special meals in the University Center's dining hall will offer a variety of African and African-American, Caribbean, and Creole cuisines."

With a mission "to create an educational environment that broadens our understanding and appreciation of multiculturalism, diversity, and social

by collette caprara

Fredericksburg community and a wellknown and respected leader. She has made history with her own achievement.

She is the first African-American female Superintendent of the Fredericksburg City Schools," said Sanford.

Musical programs of the celebration will range from the "Jazz Ensemble Black History Tribute: Iconic Jazz Greats" to "The History of Sampling Records in Hip Hop." The programs also feature the determined and inspiring figures whose lives represented triumph over adversity, such as Ida B. Wells and Phillis Wheatley.

Ida B. Wells, who was born in Mississippi to enslaved parents, not only rose to achievement as a writer and journalist but also used her skills to become a powerful voice against segregation, the convict lease system, and inequality. Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa and sold into slavery as a young girl but learned to read and write and became an acclaimed poet and was the first A f r i c a n American author of a published book of poetry.

Group of people who escaped slavery by crossing into Union lines, 1862 Throughout the month, an exhibition of the works of contemporary African American artists titled "Healing Through the Preservation of our Histories and Ourselves" will be featured at UMW's Ridderhof Martin and duPoint Galleries.

This exciting, thought-provoking exhibit will encourage reflection and promote healing on multiple levels. Among the artwork included will be some by Jacob Lawrence, who was known for his portrayal of African-American historical subjects and contemporary life. His paintings included his Migration Series which depicted the journey and relocation of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North.

The keynote address for the Black History Celebration will be given by Dr. Marceline Catlett. "We are proud to have Dr. Catlett as our keynote speaker. She is a longtime, active member of the

T h e significance of the accomplishments of these women can be fully appreciated

against a backdrop of the struggles and obstacles that African Americans have confronted, and these are depicted in a variety of other programs such as a Great Lives presentation on Emmett Till, a panel discussion titled "What Does Justice Look Like for Black People?" and two films: Just Mercy and Judas and the Black Messiah.

With the exception of a $1 donation for the films, all of the university's programs for Black History Month are free of charge.

"I would encourage people to come to learn more about the history of African American culture and what individuals have contributed to our country and continue to contribute," said Sanford. "Those who come to these events will learn more about African American history, which is American history, which is world history." The Black History Month offerings of the James Farmer Multicultural Center are also bridgebuilders. They can promote healing, not only within the Black community but also healing beyond boundaries and borders.

For a full schedule and description of February's programs, see https://students.umw.edu/multicultural/p rograms/black-history-month-celebration/ Everyone attending the BHM events, including students and children, must show proof of vaccination or have a recent (within 48 hours) negative COVID test to enter. Also, masks are required to be worn at all times when inside buildings on campus.

Collette Caprara is an artist & writer Photos courtesy of the Library of Congress

Black Infantry members during the Civil War, 1865 front porch fredericksburg

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ON THE PORCH Virginia B. Grogan Guest Porch Editorial Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan Sally Cooney Anderson Amy Bayne Laurie Black Dianne Bachman Sonja Cantu Collette Caprara Monica Davis Janet Douberly Frank Fratoe Bill Freehling Jennifer Galvin Jon Gerlach Marcia Grimsley Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Jessica Harper Keith Littlefield David C. Kennedy Jill Laiacona Lisa Chinn Marvashti Ray Mikula Vanessa Moncure Nancy Moore Pete Morelewicz Judith Muffley Patrick Neustatter Penny A Parrish Paula Raudenbush Rob Rudick Terry Rensell Ted Schubel Mandy Smith Christine Thompson Pantea Vahidi Rim Vining Tina Will Norma Woodward

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

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

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

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

Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com Facebook: @Front Porch Fredericksburg The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers.

Copyright 2022 Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine All rights reserved.

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February 2022

What I’ve Learned

by Virginia B. grogan 2022 came in much like the last few years...with a whammy!

What has six days without electricity, internet, heat, massive trees felled, a totally blocked driveway and diminishing food supply taught me?

This storm reminded me of growing up in the snow belt area of Western New York. The place where 8 foot snowdrifts, sub-freezing temperatures and power outages were the winter norm.

My parents restocked the basement pantry every fall with nonperishables food items, fresh batteries for flashlights and transistor radios (remember them?), boxes of matches, candles, and powdered milk (yuk). The fireplace was made ready with logs and the porch stacked with firewood.

We were prepared back then for the inevitable snowstorm. By 2022 I had forgotten those lessons. We were NOT prepared.

The first four days we were basically trapped in our home. The car and driveway were covered with fallen trees, branches and limbs. With no electricity, the indoor temperature kept dropping. (talk about brain freeze) And of course, our firewood stacks were buried in snow, we had forgotten to put any wood on our porch. We layered our clothing and bundled in blankets, scarves, mittens and hats..

We ate the food we could and tried to save some food by wrapping and burying in the 11" snow. Unfortunately the wildlife had other plans. So we emptied the refrigerator and spread the remaining food items in the fallen branches. At least the foxes, squirrels, groundhogs, raccoons, bunnies and deers that populate our property could have a feast.

Our phones, ipads and computers had long since ran out of power, so we occupied our time with reading, playing games, doing craft projects and, talking.

We reminisced about days gone by.

Smiling at stories of loved ones no longer with us here on earth. It was actually liberating not having the distractions of youtube, facebook, roadblocks, and TV. We learned that while technology is wonderful it can also be isolating.

Power was restored to our neighbors by day four, but not us. They

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provided us with hot food and warm drinks (coffee never tasted so good).and the use of their electricity to charge our phones. With phones restored we had countless messages from family and friends from California to Texas to Wisconsin to Connecticut to New New York to Pennsylvania and in-between inquiring about our well-being...that warmed our hearts and lifted our waning spirits.

infrastructure and lack of underground lines are a big part of these outages.

Our driveway and car was finally cleared by day five. We were now able to get to the store for food for the day and thermos filled with coffee and hot chocolate. Still no power. The power company called us with the "estimated restore time" of that night. Since the indoor temperature was now 38 degrees, we still thought it might be best to get a hotel room. Unfortunately all the petfriendly hotels were filled. We couldn't leave our three pets alone without our bodies for warmth. So we stayed.

In the Southeast the frequency of severe weather and tropical storms is expected to increase in coming years meaning more outages. Dominion Energy has buried 386 miles of power distribution lines across the region to date. Yet the utility company only plans to bury another 518 miles between now and 2028.

The average residential customer is already paying approximately $2.15 on their monthly bill for this underground work. If more power lines were buried and outdated systems upgraded would not the problems been less and fixed sooner? The cost of that is high…so is the cost of restoring power, the cost to consumers to replace lost food, work, tree removal and property damage, the cost to businesses for lost revenue.

Now we come to the day we've been praying for. On the sixth day 13 yellow and white hardhats descended on our property, "the cavalry has arrived!!

Four hours later, thanks to the herculean efforts of these workers (all but one from Georgia) and their "get er done" attitude, Hallelujah, we had power.

Perhaps what we have all learned from this wide spread power outage is that the country as a whole and Virginia in particular, needs to upgrade our power grid--- sooner than later. Yes this was a large amount of heavy wet snow. But was it unexpected that power lines and trees would fall causing massive power outages and downed lines? Antiquated power

Buried lines takes away the opportunity for trees, ice and heavy snow to damage outage-prone distribution lines during a storm. That means the fewer downed lines for Dominion Energy to repair, the more of utility resources could be diverted toward a smaller number of problems.

So what did I learn?

Always be prepared. It takes a lot of energy to stay warm. Be thankful for what you have, not what was lost. Take more time to talk to your family and less time on electronics.

And, having a community and family helps you through tough times.

Now sit back, relax, enjoy the power that has been restored and read this issue of Front Porch "cover-to-cover".

Gary the Goose fxbg’s unoffical mascot as seen by local artists

By Penny A Parrish injury, and after rehab he was dropped off at the river downtown about five years ago. Four fishermen became friends with Gary and to this day call him (he paddles over) and say hi. Lauren Tepaske, came up with a slightly more creative version of how Gary got here: "I heard he was part of a traveling circus which came into town. He met the love of his life, Gertie, and stayed behind. One day Gertie took off for the south…the rest, as they say, is history."

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“Gary & Gulls”, Beverley Coates Brush Strokes Gallery celebrates "Gary the Goose", Exhibit, February 3-2 27 Anyone who visits City Dock has probably met Gary, the white goose who calls that place home. Local legend says Gary, a white Embden goose, came from a farm in Hartwood. He apparently had an

Whether you are saying "I Do" or "Be My Valentine" We are Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

However Gary came to live at City Dock, it is apparent he enjoys being there.

Dozens of other residents, photographers, artists and animal lovers have also discovered Gary.

Knowing this, Brush Strokes Gallery invited artists, professional and amateur, to create a "Gary" piece to share with the community this month.

Gary 's first known appearance in social media was on facebook April 17, 2019. That was in "On the Fredericksburg Trails" created and hosted by Kevin Brown. It was a photo of Gary being fed by one of the fishermen. Someone identified him as 'Gary'. "For me," says Brown, "I have closely followed Gary's rise to fame, enjoying hundreds of Gary posts and photos and stories over the past few years." Brown even has his own personal

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Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940

On-Premise Jewelry Repair “Pop Art Gary”, Stacie Gerise

212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com

“Portrait of Gary”, Elise King Lynch $500 to Friends of the Rappahannock. In 2022, she made more calendars. Proceeds this time go to FCCA (Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts) where there are still a few available, but going fast.

The exhibit at Brush Strokes runs from February 3 through the 27th.

Several Brush Strokes artists have created their own versions of Gary, which will be shown with the community art. Gary is represented in painting, photography, fabric art, mosaics, stoneware and even a batik rhea egg. "I knew our local and gallery artists were creative," said BSG Treasurer Ben Childers, "but they really have outdone themselves this time. This is a delightful, fun show!"

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

Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY

Judith Crouse Muffley is a local photographer who has taken dozens of photos of Gary.

"I remember taking Gary's photo before he became famous."

(Her photo is this month’s cover) She posted those on facebook and someone suggested that she make a Gary calendar for 2021. She did just that and donated

Gary the Goose memorabilia collection.

Gary now has his own facebook page, created in early 2021 by David C. Janney. He saw so many Gary posts online that he decided the goose needed his own fan club. "I've met Gary three or four times. I just love that he has such a big following."

Artists and the community are invited to First Friday, February 4 from 59 pm. Gallery proceeds will be donated to Friends of the Rappahannock, which will be there to share information about their organization. Many of the artists are also contributing all or part of their sales to FOR as well.

Perhaps Kevin Brown summed up best what Gary means to our town. "Gary is a wonderful mascot for Fredericksburg, and he is much beloved and cherished by many fans, both young and old."

Penny A Parrish is a local photograher & President of Brush Strokes Gallery

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February 2022

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Everything Greens a lasting love through all seasons By jessica Harper Dean’s Plastering Services Plaster, Stucco, Drywall, Art 540.656.2399 540.419.8878 luckyluckydean@aol.com

Why I Adore Downtown Greens The entrancing scent of minthued herbs and golden, honeybee-kissed sunflowers permeated my soul's every fiber the very first time I set foot on Downtown Greens' lush grounds-a sweltering, sundrenched Saturday morning in mid-July on which I never expected to suffer the puncture of Cupid's merciless arrow.

But indeed I did, and I continue to fall deeper and deeper in love with DTG every dawning day, even amid this winter solstice's crushing snow.

Whether shadowed beneath endless canopies of mid-October's burnt sienna maples or saturated in early January's crystalline powder, DTG's gardens retain their luster- a beauty beyond surface deep.

Aesthetics aside, the vegetative visual feasts may draw you in, but the

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Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

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pulsating goodness of the DTG mission as well as the staff, volunteers and board members who promote it keep you returning for more of all this effort provides. This mission flowers all year long in the forms of providing a free, accessible greenspace to any in the community who desire to use it whether to meditate among the evergreens or pick their own produce as well as an eco-education venue for Fredericksburg youth from all socioeconomic walks of life.

The Youth Garden Club, Garden Sprouts weekly lessons, homeschool groups, and upcoming field trips all help foster environmental literacy among Fredericksburg youth of all ages. Virtual education and Saturday garden hours allow younger and older adults to learn from and engage with this space as well.

DTG- sponsored events like the annual summer block party and quarterly backyard benefit concert series bring our community even closer together through the creative croons of local musicians, intricate inventions of area artisans and eco-warriors, and kind commitment of inspired volunteers, among others.

An almost inescapable warmth bursts forth during the Free Farm Stand Thursdays during the spring and summer months as the spicy stench of rosemary, oregano, and sage tickle nostrils and intermingle with the sweet scents of fresh Japanese eggplant and ruby tomatoes.

Hands, young and old, eagerly grab bunches of dandelion-tinted ground cherries and emerald-stained Bok Choy.

Unrelenting laughter slices the stiff still of August heat as Farm Stand partakers collect as many caresses as crops-a symbiotic labor of love reflected through the spirit of all present parties.

Our newly acquired, 56-acre property adjacent to Braehead Farm replete with wetlands and allocated areas for cattle grazing and agro tourism ventures will only help further this mission and mirth-an exciting time to

support and/or join us here at Downtown Greens, and we certainly hope that you do.

We exist because of all of you and are here to welcome you in our spaces as often as your heart desires.

Enter into our evergreen spaces.

Come exactly as you are and bring your family, friends, and colleagues.It's this pulsating goodness that helps keep downtown Fredericksburg beating. And as a lovesick volunteer and incoming board member, I would be hard-pressed to find a worthier Valentine than this heart-filled and felt organization.

Jessica Harper is member of the Board of Directors at Downtown Greens.

She is immensely passionate about eco-health & DTG role in promoting it throughout FXBG

Founded in 1995, Downtown Greens is a non-p profit with a mission to foster community involvement and growth by protecting and nurturing urban greenspace through collaborative environmental stewardship and experimental education.Located at 206 Charles Street downtowngreens.org. Be sure to visit FXBG's Community Greenspace open from sunrise to sunset 365 days per year.

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In the Garden February planning & planting

By Ray Mikula more shade. So look at your old photos or remember where things did their best.

February is for planning and planting. In the cold months, when it's hard to get outside, there is much to do to insure a beautiful and productive garden.

First comes planning. What has worked in the past for you? Did your flowers you planted grow well in some places and poorly in others? Make sure you don't repeat your mistakes. Some spots have more sun and some more shade and that can make all the difference depending on the plants. The sun amount marked on the tag is a general recommendation but can differ with the climate. Sometimes in hot climates plants appreciate a little

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February 2022

At this time of year, with the leaves off the trees, you might find an area that you would like to screen from a nosey neighbor or something bright to add to a barren l a n d s c a p e .

Evergreen plants can block the wind or someone's view and look great against the snow. You can also plan the vegetable garden and think about new flowers you might like to try.

Seed catalogues are a good place to start.

The varieties of vegetables and flowering plants are amazing. Order your seeds now and get ready to start them indoors. The directions are usually on the packet and some may need to be started as early as February and March. I bought a pack of Foxglove seeds for $6 and got about 60 plants. They can sell for more than $10 each in the summer. You can also find brand new varieties that won't even show up at your local nurseries.

The weather can sometimes break and give some 50 and 60 degree days in February which is perfect for going after the spring weeds before they get big.

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The ground is moist from melted snow and weeds will lift easily from our clay soil.

I also like to learn a few things new and the early spring time is when many organizations have their symposiums. With expert speakers from around the country willing to share share their secrets and answer your questions, it is the perfect time to get the information you need to get your yard looking its best.

Master Gardener This year, the Association of the Rappahannock Area will have a Garden Symposium with the theme "Made for the Shade" on April 2nd at Gari Melchers Home and Studio. The topics will cover shade tolerant lawns, plants, and gardens.

For more info, go to MGACRA.org.

them in a room with sun where you don't go at night. They will set buds and flower for Christmas. Till the next time, Happy Gardening.

RayMikula is a Master Gardener.

He has several acres of garden space & has been gardening for 62 years.

Before retiring Ray was a Earth Science & Astronomy Teacher

Master Gardener Association Rappahannock Area Garden Symposium April 2nd Gari Melchers Home and Studio.

Finally, if you still have your Poinsettias from Christmas and you want to keep them grow-iing, now is the time to transplant them to larger pots. In April you can get them outside for the summer then bring them in around October. Put

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Growing & Crawling Haircap Moss: The shag rug of plants By janet douberly When February begins and we are in the deepest depths of winter, it is sometimes easy to forget that out, in that bitter cold, there are still plants, doing their thing despite the dark and icy environment. One of the smallest of these plants is Haircap Moss.

In the past mosses were mostly overlooked and walked all over but they, along with fungus and lichen, have been experiencing a surge in popularity, both online and irl. That's why it is a great time to shine a light on Haircap Moss. In the Polytrichaceae family, this perennial evergreen moss is found on every continent in the world, including Antarctica, and grows in abundance in our area. It can be found on stone walls, brick walks, old logs, and straight on the ground.

Where conditions are moist enough, this shaggy moss is there, keeping things carpeted.

Haircap moss is one of the few mosses that can thrive in full sun, as long as the ground maintains a high level of moisture. While most mosses are nonvascular, meaning they don't have a xylem

and phloem to carry water throughout the plant, Haircap Moss is shown to have water conducting tissues and pulls it's moisture strictly from the ground up.

this

In late summer you will recognize moss by it's long (1-1.5")

perichaetium, or stalk-like growths that show a beautiful red base.

Janet Douberly is Program Coordinator at Downtown Greens. learn more about things growing & crawling in Fxbg, check out our Facebook & Instagram.

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“I Have A Friend” smiling is important

By Laurie Black If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2 2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org to download volunteer or senior applications. The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

Donate to a Cancer Organization Let’s Find a Cure!

Laurie Black is the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator.

donatelifevirginia.org It was almost five years ago I highlighted volunteer, Nancy Wright, and her senior friend, Josephine. It is an honor to highlight her again with her friend, Jackie.

Nancy has volunteered with the Senior Visitors Program for almost 14 years. She has visited with several seniors over those years and has given more than 600 volunteer hours. I asked Nancy about her senior friends and what it is about the Senior Visitors Program that keeps her engaged in volunteer service. Nancy said, "they have all been very different, but I love it! I get emotionally attached. I think it is important to give back and this is something I have the ability to do."

The Senior Visitors Program volunteers visit their senior friend once a week for an hour. Isolation and loneliness are real issues for older adults and can lead to a host of health and mental health challenges. The Senior Visitors Program seeks to alleviate that isolation and loneliness by connecting older adults with a volunteer from their community. With the uncertain and ever-changing pandemic we are experiencing, loneliness can be a real problem, especially for older adults who were already feeling isolated. The Senior Visitors Program volunteers have found creative, safe ways to stay connected with their seniors and ease their isolation.

Nancy explains, "An hour a week is not too much. [Older adults] are isolated and it is not a challenge to find a way to fit into their world. I love to get a senior talking about their life and the good things they've experienced. It also fills a need in me. Volunteering brings me comfort, routine, and a concern for others which we all need."

Jackie says of her visits and time with Nancy, "We go out or we stay in. It depends on how we feel. Nancy's visits are very important to me. She helps me. She's entertaining and adventurous. She has a fun personality, and she makes me smile.

Smiling is important."

Nancy says of Jackie, "In some things we are polar opposites, and, in some things, we are the same, but we always get along wonderfully! Jackie is spicy and full of life. Our visits are always entertaining."

On a final note, Jackie said, "Nancy is a marvelous representative of your organization. You need more volunteers like Nancy!" Jackie, I couldn't agree more!

We all need a friend who appreciates us and makes our days brighter. We need someone we can count on and remember good times with. We all need to remember that "smiling is important." .

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Kerri Barile & Lisa Errickson Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life!

Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.

UMW Alumnae appointed to board of visitors

By Lisa Chinn MARVASHTI

YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area.

archaeology and architectural history from the University of Texas at Austin.

"I fell in love with Mary Washington the first time I visited the campus over 30 years ago. It was the only school I applied to, and my experience changed my life," Barile said.

"I'm utterly thrilled, and a bit shocked, to have been named a member of the Board of Visitors. This is a dream come true!"

Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required.

The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704

The Virginia Governor's Office announced today the appointment of two Mary Washington alumnae - Kerri S. Barile (above left) '94 of Fredericksburg and Lisa Errickson Henry '96 of Stafford County to UMW's Board of Visitors.

Barile, who holds nearly three decades of experience in historic preservation, architectural history, historic research and archaeology, is the owner and president of Dovetail Cultural Resource Group. Based in Fredericksburg, the company is a certified Economically Disadvantaged Woman Owned Small Business and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, handling preservation projects along the East Coast, from New York to North Carolina, and beyond.

Focused on outreach, Dovetail has donated more than half a million dollars to charitable causes, including the establishment of a historic preservation scholarship at UMW, where Barile received last year's Distinguished Alumnus Award.

In 2020, she won Enterprising Women magazine's Enterprising Woman of the Year Award and was named Woman of the Year by the Women's Transportation Seminar.

Barile, who served nine years on Fredericksburg City Council's Architectural Review Board, has taught university courses in historic preservation, preservation law, architectural history, and archaeology at UMW. Her pro bono services include editing the Bulletin of the Archaeological Society of Delaware and working on books on area history, like Fredericksburg: The Official Guide. She and her husband are also certified Fredericksburg-area foster parents.

Barile earned a bachelor's degree in historic preservation at Mary Washington, a master's degree in anthropology and a master's certificate in museum management from the University of South Carolina, and a doctorate in

Henry, who has more than two decades of healthcare marketing experience, is associate vice president of communications and marketing at Mary Washington Healthcare. Throughout her career, she has worked in strategic marketing, system branding, public relations, crisis communications, web and emerging media, call center development, corporate and community outreach, and complementary medicine practice management.

Henry recently completed two consecutive terms on the national board of directors of the Society for Healthcare Strategy and Market Development, a professional membership group of the American Hospital Association. She has presented to national, state, regional and local organizations on a variety of topics, and volunteers her time, including serving on the board of the Fairy Godmother Project, which helps families living with pediatric cancer.

She holds a bachelor's degree in English from Mary Washington, a master's in health administration from Penn State, and a master's in integrated marketing and communication from West Virginia University.

"It's an honor to receive Gov. Northam's appointment to the University of Mary Washington Board of Visitors.

I'm a first-generation college graduate and recognize that my experiences at UMW as an undergraduate student are the framework of who I am today," Henry said. "As an alumnus of UMW and resident of the Fredericksburg community, any chance to give back to the school that helped shape my professional career, altruistic spirit and service mindset is a welcome opportunity to ensure that same future for generations of students to come."

Lisa Chinn Marvashti is the Assistant Director of Media and Public Relations

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TidBits

Become a Member

small bites of local News

By Bill Freehling They provide a relaxing, private sanctuary where members can exercise their personal healthcare freedoms and opinions, remove the aches and pains from their bodies, practice whole-body wellness, and RELAX.

www.fredericksburgcsa.com

Fredericksburg’s Hometown Irish Pub & Restaurant Since 1961

First Friday Sip & Stroll Starting in February Downtown Fredericksburg's Sip & Stroll event will now start Feb. 4 February's First Friday. It had been scheduled to start this Friday, but the bad weather pushed it back.

Sip & Stroll will run from 5-9 p.m. with restaurants setting up their own internal Sip & Stroll stations, providing a logo cup and creating one-of-a-kind drink specials.

Brewery, chicken restaurant coming to former Fredericksburg Square

Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm Fri & Sat, 11am-10pm Sun, 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday

200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

Serving Up Local “Good” News For a Quarter Century

Front Porch Fredericksburg 12

February 2022

Demolition under way at former Shoney's The former Shoney's on State Route 3 in Fredericksburg is being torn down to make way for a new multi-tenant retail building.

The building being torn down is at 2203 Plank Road near Interstate 95.

Plans call for a new, roughly 5,200-squarefoot building.

Dunkin' Donuts will occupy about 3,000 square feet of the new space, and there will also be about 2,200 square feet remaining that will be built as a shell for a future tenant.

Maggie's Subs now open in Downtown FXBG We are delighted to welcome Maggie's Subs to downtown Fredericksburg.Maggie's, is at 820 Caroline Street.The menu features overstuffed subs, fresh salads, quality sides and more.

Check out the menu by following them on Facebook. We look forward to trying it out!

Float Fredericksburg Disconnect to Reconnect Float Fredericksburg is a private, members-only float club located at 431 Progress St. that's open daily from 10-6.

Front porch fredericksburg

Water's End Brewery will open its third location at the former Fredericksburg Square property at 525 Caroline Street in downtown Fredericksburg, and the concept will also include a second location for a popular chicken-oriented restaurant in Woodbridge. Hot Chickn Kitchn A small brew house will be added in the backyard, and there will be an outdoor covered bar, seating area, cooler storage and bathrooms. A new exterior ADA ramp will be added into the main building at the back of the property as well.

The new taproom will be managed by Water's End Brewery coowner Ryan Sharkey, a Fredericksburg native and resident, until a new qualified manager is hired.

Visit FredericksburgSquare.com to learn more about the project and its partners. We look forward to the opening of both businesses!

Janney-M Marshall Apartments Now Available The brick walls of the JanneyMarshall Building near Fredericksburg's train station were once lined with shelves of groceries. Now, under the contract work of John Janney, the walls are constructed around spotless kitchens with gorgeous countertops.

What used to be a wholesale grocery supplier off Princess Anne Street has been transformed into a luxurious apartment complex.

The Janney-Marshall Building apartments are now up for rent, allowing you to experience a deluxe home with a preserved history.

Janney believes people enjoy the look of the apartments, as they convey a "warm, homey feeling."

He also believes that the history of the Janney-Marshall Building provides a vibrant and rich backdrop for a unique home.

Look into renting one of the Janney Marshall apartments at Olde Towne Property Management.

City Trees Suffer Catastrophic Damage The January 3 winter storm impacted our region bringing trees and limbs down on private property and public right of ways.

Workers throughout the area worked tirelessly to remove multiple trees , limbs and other debris. The cleanup effort is ongoing. It is anticipated this work will contonue over the next couple of months.

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

Season’s Bounty

The Sunken Well Tavern

romance of food vanessa moncure

Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911

The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA

Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!!

Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

Flowers and velvet-flocked chocolate boxes; a hand-crafted paper doily Valentine; romantic dinners a deux; poems, gifts of lace, perfume and glints of gold - a shining day in the midst of winter dark meant for love for that special someone. But did you know that February is National Heart Month? And Valentine's Day can be the perfect day to begin (or continue) eating a heart-healthy diet.

Plenty of exercise and a continuing diet of moderation will ensure many years with your Valentine. Following is a romantic meal to show your Valentine you care about their healthy heart, and you won't have to sacrifice deliciousness!

DILLED SALMON Purchase wild-caught salmon, either in steaks or a 12-oz filet, both with skin on. Mix together 1 tsp. each dried dill weed, tarragon leaves and garlic with 1 tsp. olive oil. Brush top of salmon with mixture and preheat broiler. Broil salmon on metal pan until browned, then reduce oven to 350F and cook through. (Should only be an additional 5-7 min. after browning, but depends on thickness of fish). Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice (1 tsp) over fish. Serve w/ sauce made from dijon mustard and fresh dill.

GRILLED ASPARAGUS Toast ¼ c.pine nuts over medium-low flame in non-stick skillet - when they just begin to brown, watch them carefully as they can easily burn. When they color, turn out of pan onto paper towel. Let cool. Wash and cut woody ends of asparagus - use a narrow or medium-stalk. Brush 8 oz. of asparagus with olive oil, place on metal pan and broil along with the salmon, turning if they get too browned (or grill). If they're not yet tender, continue at 350F w/ salmon. Place asparagus on plate, sprinkle w/ pine nuts.

mounds on parchment-covered baking sheet, then place in preheated 300F oven for 1 ½ - 2 hours or until dried and very lightly browned. Let cool on a rack. When ready to serve, mix 1 ½ c. lowfat raspberry yogurt with enough pure pomegranate juice to make a creamy consistency, like soup. Place yogurt mixture in bottom of cream soup bowls, place 1-3 meringues atop the mixture, then sprinkle with fresh raspberries. This meal is filled with heart nutrients - antioxidants in the fish, olive oil, asparagus, pomegranate juice and nuts - fiber reduces levels of harmful LDL cholesterol, found in rice and nuts electrolytes and phytonutrients, ensuring healthy heart rhythm and having antiinflammatory properties.

Happy HeartHealthy Valentine's Day to you!

PS Perhaps the most romantic of three versions of St. Valentine - the original St. Valentine was a priest during the reign of Emperor Claudius. He ruled that unmarried men must serve in his army, and to that end banned all marriages. Valentine performed marriages in secret, but was discovered, jailed and sentenced to death. Young lovers felt the injustice and visited the prison with gifts of flowers and loving notes. After Claudius was put to death February 14, 269AD, the ban was overturned. Since then, poems, notes, flowers and love tokens prove true love is sacred; St. Valentine's sacrifice is memorialized annually.

Vanessa Moncure, a Cupid at heart, combines romance with culinary delights.

Our Store is Open

WILD RICE Actually not rice, but seeds of a grass plant. Purchase the dark rice and cook in chicken broth as package directs for broth amount and time (usually 45 min.).

FLOATING ISLANDS Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com

Prepare early in the day. Beat 3 egg whites with ¼c. Splenda until they form very stiff and glossy peaks; fold in 1 tsp. vanilla extract. Place in 2-inch

320 Emancipation Hwy fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com front porch fredericksburg

February 2022

13

SpiritS

Around Town Sunken Well Tavern

Winter Bourbon cocktails In chilly weather we find ourselves drifting to whiskey cocktails Below are some of the classics

Classic Old Fashion 1/2 oz. Bourbon Whiskey Sugar Cube dashes Angostura Bitters 2 oz. Soda Water Maraschino Cherry 1/2 Orange Wedge Orange Peel (Garnish)

"Sunken Well" Eat Well Drink Well Live Well Steve Cameli & Paul Stoddard Welcome You to the Neighborhood Serving food in historic Fredericksburg since 2006, The Sunken Well is off the main downtown area in front of the Fredericksburg National Cemetery and the Sunken Road.

One of the only true neighborhood restaurants in the city, the Well brings all types of people together, & creates a great community by. focusing on local foods, satisfying portions, and friendly service.

Stop by and enjoy the casual atmosphere, gourmet delights, fresh cut steaks and seafood, gourmet micro dishes, and the best burgers in town!. The Well has twelve beers on tap, and nightly specials. They also hold different events each night. Don't miss the popular Wednesday Trivia Night and Blue Grass Sundays A great place to bring your family or meet up with some friends.

And be sure to say hi to Steve and Paul….one of them is always on site ready to serve up great food and friendly conversation.

Olde Towne Butcher Traditional Butchery - Fresh Perspective

Clean, local, sustainable, humane foods prepared fresh.

Better for you and your family, better for our planet, better for local economy, better food!

401 William St - Fredericksburg 540-370-4105 - OldeTowneButcher.com 14

February 2022

Front porch fredericksburg

Add the sugar cube, orange wedge, bitters, and maraschino cherry in a cocktail shaker.

Use a muddler to mash the ingredients in the cocktail shaker until the sugar dissolves. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Add the bourbon and a few ice cubes to the shaker and stir for roughly 30 seconds.

Strain the mixture into an Old Fashioned or rocks glass with one large ice cube.

Finish the cocktail off with 2 oz. of soda water, garnish with the orange peel.

Bourbon Manhattan 2 1/2 oz. Bourbon Whiskey 3 dashes Angostura Bitters 1 oz. sweet vermouth Maraschino cherry garnish Orange peel garnish Chill a martini glass.

Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters and ice cubes to a shaker.

Stir or gently shake.

Strain cocktail into the chilled martini glass.

Garnish with cherry and orange peel.

Winter Buck Cocktail 2 oz. Bourbon Whiskey 2 tbsps. pear nectar 1 tbsp. lemon juice 3 tbsps. ginger ale 1 tbsp. simple syrup cinnamon stick garnish

In a cocktail shaker, add bourbon, pear nectar, lemon juice, simple syrup and ice.

Shake for 20 seconds.

Strain cocktail into a tall glass with ice.

Top with ginger ale.

Garnish with cinnamon stick.

Butter Pecan Old Fashion 2 ounces bourbon ½ ounce buttered pecan simple syrup 2 dashes aromatic bitters Orange and pecan garnish Add all ingredients to a mixing glass Stir then strain over a cube into rocks glass Garnish & Enjoy!

Recipes from an “Old Bartenders” notebook

Vino

Now Serving Lunch $6 Weekday Lunch Specials 11am - 2pm Daily

winter in the vineyard

by Rita Allan

540-373-8300 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA

Join Us on the Rooftop for Chill VIbes, Tasty Eats, & Cold Drinks

314 William St..656-2500..fb@vivifyburger..vivifyburger.com

Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com

540-898-0737

This time of year, beautiful images circulate of bare wooded grapevines against the backdrop of snowcovered ground. Snow-covered ground isn't an issue for the vines this time of year. The snow acts as a blanket and can protect the vine's root systems from subfreezing temperatures.

that will become grapes. Pruning will be performed to limit growth to a certain number of bumps which ultimately will dictate how may clusters the vine will have. Limiting the number means that the vine's energy, once spring comes, is focused into fewer buds, which is felt improves grape quality.

For young vines, a vineyard team may go out and put soil up the sides of the bottom of vine near the ground. This is called "hilling up." Vines come grafted to rootstocks that are selected specifically for the vineyard site, and this graft needs to be protected in its early growing years.

Grafting a vine onto a different rootstock allows pest and disease resistance, intaking of less nutrients in highly fertile soils, intaking of less water in soils that hold water, and many other benefits.

Vineyard workers may leave extra canes (wooded growth) with their buds on the vine during the initial prune as a way of having some insurance. This means that when they go to do a final prune, they will inspect the health of the canes and they can leave the healthiest and remove the rest.

The image of the bare wooded grapevines would lead you to believe that the vines are dormant but that isn't the case. While growth above the ground stops for the winter, the vine's roots are still growing, seeking out nutrients that will be used for the next season's growth.

During the late fall and winter, the vine is busily storing carbohydrates in their trunks which will be used for energy in the spring to send out new shoots, leaves, and clusters. Vineyard workers will go out in the cold or even freezing temperatures to prune (trim) off much of the old growth.

Shop Local Welcome to Downtown Fredericksburg’s Main Street District fredericksburgdowntown.org

The growth for the coming year physically exists on the vine already as little bumps called buds. Each bud contains shoots, leaves, and structures

Pruning in spring can delay bud break and that is a good thing in areas that are susceptible to late frosts. When bud break occurs, the structures contained within the bud emerge. The young growth of shoots, leaves, and clusters can be decimated by a frost.

Next time you drive past a vineyard in winter or see a photo of a vineyard in the winter, remember that there is still much going on below the surface, and vineyard workers will be out in the cold at some point, so that the vineyards can produce something wonderful in your glass. Cheers.

City Vino is located at 810 Caroline St. You can find owner Rita Allan on-site to provide answers to all your wine questions

front porch fredericksburg

February 2022

15

CALEND february 2022...Black History Month, American Heart Month, Nat’l Bird Feeding Month, Month of Love Dance FXBG swing dances above Picker's Supply in downtown FXBG. Beginner lesson from 7:30-8pm; dance 8-11pm. No partner or experience needed, 902 Caroline St

Tuesday, Feb 1

Great Lives Series, Jimmy Carter, 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p Live MUSIC "ON THE Cinder" @ the Rec Center, 213 William St

Live Music @Adventure North, Reckless Brigade, 7p

Wednesday February 2 Groundhog Day

Open Mic @Adventure Brewing Eagle Village, 7:30p

Nerds Unite! Magic the Gathering @the Rec Center, 7p

Live Music @Colonial Tavern, sweet and sassy tunes: old favorites to sing along to, sit back and relax songs, get up and dance, new songs, modern country, rock, and even some Irish! 1-4p, 406 Lafayette Blvd

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Match wits with the 'Burgs finest minds. Prize! 720 Littlepage Jeopardy nights at Adventure Eagle Village 7:30 -9p.

Live Music@6 Bears & A Goat, Bon brings our smooth, funky sound an night of R&B hits. 7-9p, 1140 International Pkway

Thursday February 3

Sunday February 6

Great Lives Series, Mother Theresa, , 7:30p UMW Dodd Aud7p

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, 720 Littlepage til 1p

First Friday February 4

Sunday Brunch@Billiken's Smokehouse @The Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST

Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm

"Gary the Goose", Brush Strokes Gallery, opening reception, 5-9p, 824 Caroline St Artful Dimension "Red Alert" All Member Show, opening 6-9p, 922 Caroline St 30th Anniversary Celebration,"Glamour & Pearls", Art First opening 6-9p, 824 Caroline St

Gallery,

"Celebrating Black History", and "All Photography, FCCA, 813 Sophia St. Attention Dads!! Join us for our Annual Valentine's Dance for fathers, stepdads, grandpas, and uncles to treat their little sweethearts to an evening of dress-up, fun and dancing. It's a magical. Lafayette Upper Elementary School, 6:30-8:30p, 3 Learning LAne Live Music, Abominog @the Recreation Center, 8-11:30p, 213 William St Live Music @Adventure North, Brisk, 6p

Saturday February 5

Invasive Plant Removal @Friends of the Rappahannock, 9-12p 3219 Join FXBG Paranormal Research & Investigation & Covert Paranormal Teams as they host PARANORMAL LOCKSDOWN at the Historic Belle Grove Plantation in King George, VA Live Music @the Rec Center, Dicqbeata; Sunshine Hysteria;& More, 6:30p, 213 William st

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG 16

February 2022

Front porch fredericksburg

Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11:30-3p

Tuesday February 8

Great Lives Series, Fly Girls, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p

Wednesday February 9

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage Jeopardy nights at Adventure Eagle Village 7:30 pm.

Thursday February 10

Black History Month Keynote Speaker, Dr. Marceline Catalatt, 12-1:30p, UMW Unveiling New Historic Panel: 1950 Graduating Class of Walker Grant Protest in front of the Dorothy Hart Community Center the site of the protest, 408 Canal St, 1pm Great Lives Series, Homer, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p Open Mic Comedy @The Chimneys, 12-2p, 623 Caroline St

Friday February 11

Drive-In Movie Series, "Shang-Chi & the Legend of the TEN Rings", gates open 5p, movie 6p, Old Mill Park FREE Spainish Wine Dinner @Casey's Restaurant, Chef Alex and Chef Jose Costa 's Spanish influenced 5 course dinner featuring tapas and Spanish Wine , 7-10p 622 Kenmore Ave

Saturday February 12

Spotsy Farmers Market, 9-12p, 1215

It's all about the kids 7th Annual FX Center. great event for families learn set up throughout the Expo Cent Animals & Inflatables. thru Feb 13

Whooo Loves You? All about owls O creatures. Join the team from Ea adaptations, dig into some owl pelle animals. Owl Prowl (short night hike to talk to us! Motts Run Reservoir,4

Join us at the Mary Washington Hou first president! Included with your crafts for children (while supplies la Live Music @Acventure Brewing Eag

Dance FXBG swing dances above P Beginner lesson from 7:30-8pm; experience needed 902 Caroline St

10th Annual Lincoln Birthday Dinne 6p 620 Caroline ST

Sunday February 13

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch Littlepage til 1p

Sunday Brunch@Billiken's Smokehou

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well

Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tave

Monday February 14 Happy Valentine's Day

Tuesday February 15

Great Lives Series, Remembering Em

Wednesday, February 16

Healthy Cooking Demo, 12-1 pm, Emancipation Hwy AND online.

GreenFare Organic Cafe in He demonstration and discussion. E register for online session.

Photographing Your Artwork @FCC Laura O'Leary , 8:30-11 a, 813 Soph

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

50 Gordon Rd.

XBG Kid Expo at Expo & Conference n, explore & play together! activities ter, including Musical Petting Zoo, 3 www.FredericksburgKidExpo.com

Owls are some of the most amazing arthquest discover all about their ets, and meet a few of these winged e) to see if we can get any wild ones 4:30-6:30p.

use as we celebrate the birth of our r paid admission are free cake and ast.) 11-4p

le Village The Cold North, 7p

Picker's Supply in downtown FXBG. ; dance 8-11pm. No partner or

er @Courtyard Marriott Downtown,

Jeopardy nights at Adventure Eagle Village 7:30 pm.

Thursday February 17

Great Lives Series, Black Woman Reforner, Ida B. Wells, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p

Friday February 18

Families are invited to join us for a night of fun, friendly competition!

Test your game skills against other families for the top prize. Families participate as a team 6:30-8:30p Dorothy Hart Community Center $ Live Music @Colonial Tavern, Shree, 8-11p, 406 Lafayette Blvd

Saturday February 19

FXBG Snowball Fight Melee happening at Fredericksburg Nationals, 601 Caroline Street, First Floor, Fredericksburg, 3: to 5 pm Live Music @the Rec Center, Lacking & Road Pig Split Release, 7p, 213 William ST Dance FXBG swing dances above Picker's Supply in downtown FXBG. Beginner lesson from 7:30-8pm; dance 8-11pm. No partner or experience needed , 902 Caroline St

Sunday February 20

, Dine-In, Take-Out, & Delivery. 720

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, Dine-In, Take-Out, & Delivery. 720 Littlepage til 1p Sunday Brunch@Billiken's Smokehouse @The Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST

use @The Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST Tavern 6-8pm

ern 11:30-3p

mmitt Till, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p

, Fredericksburg Food Co-op, 320 Join Gwyn Whittaker, owner of erndon, for a healthy cooking mail fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com to

CA, with Professional Photographer hia St

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11:30-3p Concert Series @St George Episcopal Church, Jazz Ensemble,Join us for an afternoon of Jazz & Blues 3p, 905 Princess Anne St FREE "tHE Big Day Bridal Show" Planning for a Wedding is made easy at the Fredericksburg Expo Center Smell the flowers, taste the cakes, try the food and sit in the limos as you enjoy a leisurely day with the areas best wedding and event professionals all under one roof. 11a-3p

Tuesday February 22

Great Lives Series, Surupa Gupta, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p

Wednesday February 23 Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Match wits with the 'Burgs finest minds. Prize! 720 Littlepage Jeopardy nights at Adventure Eagle Village 7:30 pm. Play on your own or with your friends to test your trivia skills,7:30-9p.

Thursday February 24

Great Lives Series, Black Flags, Blue Waters, , 7:30p UMWDodd Aud7p

Saturday February 26

"Hope Lives Here", Dance Matrix dancers, singers & actors come together to share their art & raise funds for Empowerhouse, FXBG Library Theater, 7:30p, info dancematrixcompany.com Spirits Festivel, Sample some of the BEST spirits in VA. All Samples included in admission! FXBG Fairgrounds, 2400 Airport Avr, 11a-4p Dance FXBG swing dances above Picker's Supply in downtown FXBG. Beginner lesson from 7:30-8pm and dance from 8-11pm. No partner or experience needed, 902 Caroline St

Sunday February 27

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, Dine-In, Take-Out, & Delivery. 720 Littlepage til 1p Sunday Brunch @ Billiken's Smokehouse @The Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11:30-3p

Live Music @Adventure Brewing North, Scarlett Awakenung, 12-2p

Monday February 21 Presidents Day

1/2 Price for Washington's Birthday - Mary Washington House (540373-1569), Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop (540-373-3362), and Rising Sun Tavern 11a-4p Enjoy 1/2 price our standard admission prices as we celebrate George Washington's Birthday. Adults tour for $3.50 per museum, youth 6-17 tour for $1.50 per museum.

If you are reading this 295th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 25th year of continuous publication!

List your events email frntprch@aol.com: subject Calendar Deadline for March 2022 issue is February 19th.

Dog Walking Pet Sitting Companion Play Time & Mini Furies, Too!

540-735-8228 On facebook as “City PetSitting” front porch fredericksburg

February 2022

17

history’s stories

Concerning Dogs

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks & Keith Littlefield

the waller family

By Nancy Moore

FREDERICKSBURG DOG TAGS

I started metal detecting for Civil War artifacts in 1956 and was in the group of the early relic hunters to search camps and battlefields this was less than one hundred years after the Civil War had ended. Keith started in 1973 and the searching is more difficult, even as metal detector technology has gotten more sophisticated.

In additional to finding Civil War relics, the Pandora's Box of metal readings occasionally turns up a simple, small brass plate with the letters "C.F." and a date stamped into it. It is a City of Fredericksburg dog tag; many diggers do not know what this is. The earliest Fredericksburg dog tax was in 1784, and the 1871 City Ordinance chapter on "Concerning Dogs" provides valuable historical context. After paying "the tax on dogs" the dog owner was given "a collar with a piece of metal attached thereto, stamped with the letters C.F., and also the year in which the collar was issued." The earliest known C.F. dog tag is from 1853. These tags were made locally by William Bell - his hallmark "W.H. BELL" is engraved on each one. They are very scarce and very crude. The town

mayor was authorized by Town Council to keep a record of the tag numbers and who they were issued to, so perhaps these unique tags can be traced back to their owner if the ledgers can be located.

William J. Bone's 1993 book on "Pre-1900 Dog License Tags" list the following dates for C.F. Dog Tags: 1886, 1887, 1889, and 1892, the shapes different for each year. Dr. Bone notes that "all pre-1900 dog license tags qualify as uncommon and most are rare."

In his 30-year-old benchmark, his rarity numbers reflect the number known, and are either (rarity) R1 or R2 for C.F. dog tags. Given the City's $1 fine for not being licensed, failure to pay the fine also resulted in the death of the dog. Clearly the Fredericksburg licensed dog population was robust, but we believe that since dog tags are found locally, many citizens simply do not know what these metal tags are. The census is clearly incomplete by a lack of knowledge and given encouragement by relic hunter Michael Littlefield (Keith's identical twin brother), that was the impetus for this article.

There are many known dog tag collectors in the area and many relic hunters that have found a Fredericksburg dog license. Other known pre-1900 C.F. city Fredericksburg) dates are: 1870 (CF on reverse), 1883, 1884, 1885, 1888, 1890, 1891.

The authors would appreciate knowing about other C.F. dog tags that you may have to help update the census.

Please contact Tuffy or send him a picture. ("Tuffy" and Keith both have a vast collection of early Fredericksburg artifacts) Ddedicated to: Stuart Heubi, Anne Brauer, Billy Noddleton, and FR. Ron Okrasinski Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Historian

18

OUR HERITAGE

February 2022

Front porch fredericksburg

The Wallers were among the first leaders in Spotsylvania County. John Waller came to Virginia from England in 1695 and settled near the Mattaponi River in what is now King William County.

He turned his sights to Spotsylvania County in 1722 when Alexander Spotswood appointed him to serve as clerk of the court.

Waller built a home that he called Newport, after his birthplace in England.

He was soon elected to the first vestry of St. George's Parish and became senior warden. He was also one of seven trustees of the newly created town of Fredericksburg.

For the first 64 years of the county's history, members of the Waller family filled the clerk's office position. But then it was time for another adventure for the family.

Historian Paula Felder, writing about John Waller, said: "Certainly, he could not have imagined that within fifteen years of his death, his own namesake would aggressively plant a church in the Baptist faith which would weaken and ultimately destroy his beloved Mattapony Church."

That namesake, known in his youth as "Swearing Jack" Waller, became a Baptist at a time when Virginia law forbade preaching by anyone except ministers of the Church of England.

"Swearing Jack," born in 1741, spent his younger days gambling and persecuting Baptists. However, as a member of a county grand jury that indicted Lewis Craig for his Baptist preaching, Waller was impressed by the defendant's demeanor and speech. Soon afterward, he began attending Baptist meetings and was ordained pastor of the Church of Lower

Spotsylvania in 1770. He, Craig, and several other Baptists were arrested at that church in 1768. They were jailed when they refused to stop preaching.

The second notable Waller minister was the Rev. Absalom Waller, born in 1772. He was Swearing Jack Waller's nephew and succeeded his uncle as pastor of the Church of Lower Spotsylvania, later named Waller's Church in honor of the two early pastors. John Waller and other early Baptist ministers lobbied for the right to preach-a right that was finally granted with the passage of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom in 1786.

The Wallers gained new prominence in the 1970s with the publication of Alex Haley's Roots: The Saga of an American Family. The novel, which Haley based on the story of his own family, was published in 1976. Roots tells the story of Kunta Kinte, an 18th-century African, captured and sold into slavery in Africa. He was sold at the port of Annapolis, Maryland, to John Waller of Spotsylvania in 1767.

The television version of Roots, starring LeVar Burton, was wildly popular at the time. The Free Lance-Star was on hand when Haley and Burton visited the county to film a sequel, "Roots: A Second Look." Retired District Court Judge Absalom Nelson Waller, Jr., (note the family name) took them to the gravesite of his ancestor, John Waller, bringing the family story back to its roots.

Nancy Moore is a Board Member, Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc. and Virginiana Manager at Central Rappahannock Regional Library.

Lithograph US Army Corp of Topograhic Engineers & Army of the Potomac courtesy of Library of Congress

What’s in An Enigma?

Martha Stevens & the stevens house By jon gerlach abandoned character and an outcast of society", wrote one man. Her friend John Goolrick described her as "uneducated, too free and too outspoken in what she said and how she said it." She was thought to have run a brothel, but that has since been mostly debunked. Her activity as a saloon-keeper may have contributed to her questionable reputation in the community.

Walking along the Sunken Road by the Stone Wall, you'll come upon a simple arrangement of granite blocks that trace the outline of a historic home, the Martha Stevens House. Here, visitors pause to reflect on the life and times of its owner, a true enigma in Fredericksburg's history.

Her story resonates with different people for different reasons: diversity and equal rights, the horrors of slavery, the Civil War and its "lost cause" retelling. Prior to Emancipation, a large proportion of city residents were enslaved persons, and some of our city residents today are their direct descendants. Even now, we still feel ideological divisions about our past, present and future.

Fredericksburg is awash in a complicated social history. Emblematic of our struggles to accept and understand one another, is the question of how we interpret the wording on the monument erected on the site in 1917 which reads: "HERE LIVED MARTHA STEVENS FRIEND OF THE CONFEDERATE SOLDIER 18611865".

She remains the only woman of Fredericksburg to have a Civil War monument erected in her honor. But what, exactly, are we honoring? As historian John Hennessy puts it, "to most

Fredericksburgers, she would have been near the bottom of the list of prospective heroines, for Martha Stevens lived an unconventional life on the edges of Fredericksburg society."

If you could travel back in time and visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield in the 1880s, when the house was still standing (it was destroyed by fire in 1913), you might happen upon its owner, the legend herself, Martha Stephens (aka Martha Stevens, d. 1888). Her house sat at ground zero during both battles of Fredericksburg. Ever the businesswoman, she would later sell off parts of her bulletriddled house to souvenir seekers, and frequently regaled visiting veterans of both armies with her colorful tales of the battle.

A fiercely independent businesswoman who never married, she owned several parcels of real estate … at a time when that was a rare thing. She could neither read nor write, and signed her name with a simple "X". She smoked a pipe, was rumored to associate with AfricanAmerican men, and ran afoul of the law for dispensing alcohol out of her house.

History has been both kind and condescending to this remarkable person.

Before the Civil War, her reputation was sullied: "a woman of

Martha never married. Evidence indicates that she lived with one Edward Stevens for nearly 30 years. She even took on his last name (aka Stephens). Under Virginia law, real property owned by a woman would promptly pass to her husband upon marriage. Perhaps she stayed single to retain ownership and control over her real estate holdings.

Oddly, by the time of her death in the late 1880s, her status had swung dramatically, from town nonconformist to beloved heroine. By the time the monument was erected in 1917, it was believed that she had tended to wounded soldiers during the December 13th 1862 battle, although there are no wartime

accounts of this ever happening. Perhaps the genesis of the legend came from her own story-telling to veterans who visited the battlefield, as suggested by John Hennessy in his Wordpress article Martha Stevens Redeemed: Pariah to Heroine - a Matter of Faith or History?

Martha Stephens was often shunned, misunderstood, and beloved, so the enigmatic view we have of her today is not surprising.

So what's in an Enigma? Here, a true maverick who history remembers in starkly different ways.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach serves on Fredericksburg's City Council, Ward Two. photo: Stevens House postwar photo courtesy of npsfrsp.wordpress.com

The Central Rappahannock Heritage Center is a non-profit, all-volunteer archives whose mission is to preserve historically valuable material of the region and make it available to the public for research 900 Barton St #111, Fredericksburg, VA www.crhcarchives.org contact@crhcarchives.org 540-373-3704 Volunteers Wecome!

Contact us about donating collections of documents and photographs

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Mental Health Resilience: bend but not break By pantea valhidi their creative thinking to adjust and adapt. They somehow know what Einstein knew that "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them."

ble at Availa n.com Amazo

7) Resilient People Set Realistic Expectations: Expectations are what we believe about the future. While not crossing the line of being pessimistic, resilient people know that by having unrealistic expectations, they are setting themselves up for a major disappointment, which will lead to frustration. Having realistic expectations is a mental rehearsal which makes us more prepared for what is to come.

Having watched patients in their most vulnerable times of pain and agony, I have been privileged to witness many of them find the courage and strength to rise above their circumstances. I have noticed that resilient people have certain traits and a mindset that sets them apart.

As a young girl, I first started observing how my parents responded to crisis. I grew up during a war that took over our lives for close to a decade. I watched how my parents implemented safety measures and took in the worries, but held a straight face. Looking back at those years I now see a pattern. I see how resilient people share certain characteristics. These common traits leave clues and teach us proven effective approaches on how to bend, but not break in the face of adversity.

1) Resilient People Accept the Baseline: Baseline is your current situation. It is a term we use in the medical field to describe the usual health condition of patients. The baseline blood pressure of athletes is different than most. Their blood pressure may be alarming for someone who doesn't regularly exercise, but it is normal for their body to function in complete balance. The concept of "baseline" also applies to our lives. Your normal may be different than someone else's, but it's yours to own.

Resilient people do not ask "why me?", they accept their baseline and put in the effort to change it.

2) Resilient People Are Flexible: Being willing to change plans and pivot is crucial to being resilient. Those who have experienced adversities know that often times life does not go as planned,

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and the frustration of refusing to change is an unnecessary source of depletion and burnout.

3) Resilient People are Willing to Learn: When challenges and change strike us, we need new skills and knowledge to cope with and overcome the adversities.

Resilient people are open to learning about the topic that they are facing.

They know that the more equipped they are with information and facts, the better they can make decisions and battle what they are facing.

4) Resilient People Seek Solutions: When life takes a turn, we can either sit and complain or immediately look for solutions. Resilient people are quick to look for ways to resolve or at least improve the situation. They do not expend their energy in reciting why the problem is difficult or unfair. They channel that time, mental, and emotional energy to find solutions.

5) Resilient People are Resourceful: Unusual circumstances call for unusual measures. Those who are resourceful make do with what is available and use their accessible resources to the best of their ability. Many can function and perform in ideal situations, but to be able to work with what is at their disposal is the difference between wishful thinking and being realistic and resilient.

6) Resilient People are Creative: When we face trials and turbulences, we often need to think outside the box to come up with new ways to overcome. Resilient people know that they need to tap into

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While the pandemic brought a unique sense of uncertainty, for many people around the world, having to live day by day is not a new concept. We all need resilience tools to withstand the storms of life. Observing how resilient people handle adversities and taking a page out of their book is an effective method of learning skills to build much needed strength to weather the storms and bend but not break.

Pantea Vahidi, RN, is a Compassion and Resilience Advisor, Educator, Registered Nurse, Researcher and Engineer. She has developed courses and trainings with practical tools to cultivate compassion and foster resilience to prevent and heal burnout.

To learn more about NAMI programs, visit Website namirapp.com.

Donate to a Cancer Organization Let’s Find a Cure!

Astrology for You A language of planetary patterns that connect us with universal energies.

We are born with unique configurations that can advise us, guide us, help us grow to our highest potential Consultations by Four Winds Astrology. LLC 540.845.7622 FourwindsastrologyLLC@gmail.com

Have You Tried Acupuncture?

Emancipated Patients M.A.I.D.

By Patrick Neustatter, MD

Call Now to Schedule 540.847.6985 AcupunctureFredericksburg.com

Virginia's congress is once again preparing to come to grips with the highly emotive business of medical aid in dying (MAID) which term protagonists prefer to the alternative that some use of "physician assisted suicide."

In the ten states, and District of Columbia that have legalized MAID it means doctors can prescribe a lethal dose of medicine (usually a barbiturate, pentobarbital or secobarbital) to cause the patients to die of respiratory failure in their sleep - though experience in states where it is already sanctioned, only about half the people prescribed the medicine actually take it. Knowing it is available is comfort enough.

Kay Kory, the Democratic delegate for Virginia's 38th District in Falls Church introduced a bill in January 2020 but it never got out of committee.

She is trying again, possibly with cosponsorship from other delegates.

Hot Button Issue Whether you support MAID or not depends on your theological and ethical beliefs. Whether deliberately hastening someone's death is justified to save their suffering.

Opponents believe this is a slippery slope, and people will be coerced in to ending their life in a capricious way, by family, insurance companies, doctors, for convenience or economy. Or people who are not truly terminal or who are just depressed will be opting to end it all.

Disability groups like Not Dead Yet fear the disabled will be coerced in particular. Though the evidence from states that have legalized MAID is that there is no evidence of coercion. And all have stringent safeguards to be sure people are terminal, not depressed, and are mentally competent.

There is no obligation for any doctor or pharmacist to participate - they can opt out.

Within the profession there is opposition - though overall 57 per cent of doctors are in favor (and 74 percent of the general public according to a Gallup Poll survey in May of 2020).

The American Medical Association says "physician-assisted suicide is fundamentally incompatible with the physician's role as healer." "My" bunch - the American Academy of Family Physicians - after initial opposition, has taken the bold step of declaring neither for nor against. Rather "engaged neutrality."

My Take I have attended several patients whose pain, nausea, air hunger, loss of autonomy and other suffering cannot be fully relieved by all the wonders of palliative care. I see this as the ultimate in patient-autonomy, that they be allowed to opt for hastening of their inevitable death.

Opt to not have to endure days or weeks more suffering.

I do not go along with the argument that MAID is incompatible with a physician's role. Rather I believe that denying someone the means to end their suffering is really the policy that is incompatible. And the idea of being a healer in this circumstance is unrealistic.

These patients are, sadly, unhealable.

Not being willing to allow aid in dying promotes "back street" alternatives uncontrolled stuff like Dr. Jack Kevorkian driving around the country in his VW Minibus with his "Thanatron" delivering IV medicines when the patient hit the button.

Or the "Mercitron" that administered carbon monoxide.

As with so many needed reforms in medicine, implementation requires us to convince our representative politicians - who tend to be antsy about anything the slightest bit controversial.

If you are a believer like me, join forces with organizations like Compassion and Choices or bend the ear of your representative.

Allow a merciful release for the very few patients who want to opt for medical aid in dying.

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

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Gratitude HAS MANY HEALTH BENEFITS

Life Coaching lack of self-love

by Christine THOMPSON long shown that g r a t i t u d e reduces stress, but it may also play a star role in recovering from t r a u m a .

According to one study war veterans with higher levels of g r a t i t u d e exhibited lower incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It takes no great leap of faith to believe that an attitude of gratitude is beneficial to your psyche and, with a little further thought, also to your physical health. The common line of reasoning is that, since gratitude is a positive emotion, it would make you feel happier, probably by producing "feel-good" hormones, like endorphins, which have also been shown to have real health benefits.

Fortunately, we don't have to rely on just our reasoning power. We actually have some scientific proof of the benefits of gratitude. One notable study was done by the psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, leading gratitude researchers.

In a ten-week study, these researchers found that those who journaled about gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives than those who wrote about irritations or just the details of their day. I want to highlight one particular finding of this study: the people journaling about gratitude also exercised more and had fewer visits to doctors than those who focused on sources of aggravation.

As reported in Psychology Today, Forbes and Time, here are 7 scientifically proven benefits of practicing gratitude: 1.Improved relationships. Turns out, just the simple act of saying, "thank you" can improve relationships all around.

(Again, mom was right!)

2.Improved physical health. Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and report feeling healthier than other people.

3.Improved emotional health.

4.Improved empathy and reduced aggression 5.Improved sleep.

6. Improved self-esteem 7.Reduced stress and PTSD. Research has

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This is all well and good, but what if you just didn't grow up experiencing much gratitude and it doesn't come naturally to you? How do you become a more grateful person and make gratitude more of a benefit to your long term health picture? Well, gratitude is just like any other habit. You have to treat it like a muscle. Practice, practice, practice.

Consistency is the key. I always stress, with any habit you are trying to incorporate into your life, consistency has much more effect than intensity or duration.

Believe it or not, a small time commitment, done diligently, with intention and consistently for years, has the potential to improve your experience of life, and therefore your health outlook … probably more than you think.

Here's three steps to help you incorporate gratitude into your life and reap the health and happiness benefits: Start a Gratitude Journal. Write down three things you are grateful for every night before going to sleep.

Every time you find yourself thinking about something irritating or remind yourself of depressing, something you are grateful for or appreciate about your life situation.

Every day make a conscious habit of stopping a minute to thank someone or tell someone what you appreciate about them.

If you incorporate these three habits into your daily life, you are sure to improve your outlook, your level of satisfaction with your life and also your health and well-being. What have you got to lose? Give it a try. But don't wait. Take action right now. No, I mean RIGHT NOW. Christine Thompson is a Doctor of Chiropractic. She is the CEO & Founder of Whole Health Solutions Inc. 434 Bridgewater Street.www.whole-health.net

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By Marcia Grimsley Lack of self-love helps create negative emotions. "Every negative feeling we hold stems from the lack of self- love.", says Paul Ferrini, (The 12 Steps of Forgiveness) February is the month of love and lovers. We celebrate our most intimate and treasured relationships. However, we often forget that one of the most treasured relationships is the relationship with ourselves.

Self-love is a vital part of good self-esteem. Self-esteem is the engine that moves us forward and empowers us in the world.

When we talk about loving ourselves and honoring our feelings, we are not implying this should take place at the expense of others or in an egotistical manner. Rather, we want to respect ourselves, because all human beings are valuable and precious, including us. Selfesteem is the foundation of life coaching.

As a professional life coach, I am always looking for self-esteem issues that may surface with my clients. I often suggest clients check in with self-esteem, by asking themselves the following questions.

1) Do I value myself?

2) Am I honest with myself and with others?

3) Do I maintain good physical and psychological balance and boundaries in my daily life?

4) Do I take responsibility for my actions and their consequences?

5) Am I able to show humility when it is appropriate?

6) Am I able to forgive others and myself and move my life forward?

Only we know what decisions and actions feel right for us. What then keeps us from listening to our wise inner guidance and follow its direction? When we feel negative about our life's circumstances, how can we then become alert to the thoughts and perceptions that we are creating in our mind? Any negative view of our life can cause us to experience unpleasant emotions. Low self-esteem is usually the main cause of our negative perceptions.

Paul Ferrini offers some advice that can be very helpful in shifting us out of negative emotions and negative selflove: Recognize the feeling.

Do not justify or condemn the feeling.

Allow the feeling to speak to you.

Honor the feeling. It has an internal communication for you.

Take complete responsibility for your feeling.

Refuse the inclination to make anyone else responsible for it.

As you feel the feeling, you can discover that you may not be very loving to yourself or another in that moment.

Stay with the feeling, allowing this new insight to sink in. Next, the unhappy feeling will begin to shift, as you change your thoughts.

Ultimately, the missing self-love must be supplied by us. This is why it is never helpful to blame others or conditions in our life. If we can remember to choose love for others, and ourselves, we are making the healthiest choice for everyone.

"Know that you are living a great story. It is the story of you. The next chapter is right now in front of you, unfolding. Live it with dignity!" says Jean Houston, PhD., Author, Teacher, and Philosopher Marcia Grimsley, BA, MS, is a Professional Life Coach She offers Personal, Career & Business and Health & Welllbeing Coaching Contact her at 540-785-4104 or www.marciaslifecoaching.com

Auto Known Better breaker one nine!

By Rim Vining 907 Princess Anne Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

www.donatelifevirginia.org

February is NASCAR month.

Daytona kicks off another year of left turn racing which by definition should make it the liberal bastion of American life. Alas it is anything but. They have four major "series" track races plus eight "minor series" races and just in time for COVID there are actually three "on-line series" races. I can only equate them to on-line universities who are trying to stay relevant and collect your money without actually providing anything you couldn't look up on your cell phone.

phone should have been blasting weather warnings in a constant loop. Do you really trust your car that much? It is winter folks and stuff happens. Be prepared.

Now I hear there is a fifth series in the works: The Critical Race Theories!

In this one everything is made up and not actually real. They'll have rumored tracks and imaginary cars and the drivers are mere innuendos that you are free to make do whatever your mind can dream up and obviously getting them to veer right is the goal.

When I stopped at the Petersburg toll booth to fork over my dime the wipers went across as water and back across as a fully iced over windshield! The next few hours were classic cars in ditches.

Amazingly, because of that antiquated bulky thing called a CB radio, the truckers already knew to get off and hunker down so traffic was light and while the bridges were pure ice if you went slow, stayed in the center lane and prayed each time you hit a bridge you could keep going.

Somehow In the bitcoin world of imaginary money and turning a buck it took NASCAR more than the millisecond it should have to reject the placement of a paid endorsement on a driver's car that was a vulgar slur towards the office of the President of the United States. It represented language and an attitude you certainly shouldn't want taught in your child's school! While the driver and his team originally denounced the slogan which NASCAR fans invented, once presented with the opportunity they were quick to take the check and that's a race theorem. Sad state of affairs.

So on a lighter note… how in the world can you get in your car after a foot of snow has fallen and the interstate has been closed for twelve hours wearing nothing but a light coat and street shoes with only a quarter tank of gas and nothing to eat? The storm last month was predicted well in advance and your cell

I understand "through drivers" just moving along as best they can with no place to stop. I left western Carolina once in mid-March with a forecast of rain and temps in the upper 40's only to watch the ice start to build on the car until the CB antenna finally popped off from the ice.

Oops!

Now for a once told story: Dr. John Painter, who practiced pediatrics in Fredericksburg from 1957 until his retirement in the early 90's, was headed north in heavy snow and pulled off for rest and coffee in Fredericksburg. Since it's 1956 I'm betting it was the 2400 Diner on Princess Anne Street. A few docs from the "new" Mary Washington Hospital nearby were taking a break as well. Asked where he was headed he said he was looking to start a pediatric practice in Alexandria…. their response? "We could use a pediatrician here!" and the rest as they say is history.

Stay Safe and stay off the roads in the snow! autoknownbetter@gmail.com Rim Vining, humorist, friend and a devoted community volunteer

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Art in Burg Art Galleries in February “Where Locals Go” Patty O'Brien, solo show Thru March 2022 Mary Washington Hospital Gallery Wing

“Red Alert” All Member Show Opening Reception First Friday, February 4--6 6-9 9pm Artful Dimensions, 923 Caroline One definition of "Red Alert" is a state of readiness to deal with emergency situations.

“Morning Has Broken”, Beverly Toves @ BSG At Artful Dimensions, we are ready … ready to serve all your gift-giving needs! Our artists have used the “Gary the Goose” color that is most often associated with Brush Strokes Gallery February and created a diverse array of Opening ,Feb 4 , 5-9 9p, 824 Caroline St. works that are perfect gifts for everyone.

Thursday- Sun 11am - 5 pm. ~ Sally Cooney Anderson Featuring artwork that celebrates Gary the Goose, the Burg's beloved unofficial mascot (see pg 5). For this unique show, Brush Strokes extended an invitation to the community to show their Gary-themed creations along with those of several of the gallery's artists.

The response was enthusiastic and the range of artistic mediums was surprisingranging from photos and paintings that capture Gary's confident personality to depictions in fiber art, stained glass, and even a painting on a rhea egg! .

Drop by and experience the funfilled spirit of this delightful community collaboration! Our members are pleased to invite all to their First Friday opening reception where guests will have an opportunity to meet and chat with our artists as well as other community creators. Friends of the Rappahannock will also be there to provide information about their organization ~Collette Caprara FCCA, 813 Sophia ST “Celebrating Black Artists Th-F Fri, 12-4 4p; Sat 11-4 4, Sun, 1-4 4p ~Valerie Lecea

“Galmour & Pearls" 30th Anniversary Celebration Opening Reception, First Friday ,February 4, 6-9 9p Art First, 824 Caroline ST Thursday-S Sunday, 11a-5 5p From photographs, to acrylic paintings, to mixed media, to pulp paintings, our "30th Anniversary Glamour and Pearls" show will have it all!

Pete Morelewicz,@ LibertyTown The Artists' Alliance “WInter Wonderland” 100 Taylor St, Suite 101 Colonial Beach website artgallerycolonialbeach.com, Facebook :cbartistsalliance The theme of Winter. Members will be presenting wintry influenced art work in many disciplines. Gallery open Saturday - Sunday, 11-5.

The show runs through February 6. AA members are also displaying their painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and wood furniture. Carl and Joyce Thor continue to sell their art in the adjoining galleries. ~ Rob Rudick LibertyTown Arts Workshop 916 Liberty St Designer Label, & Mural for Red Dragon Brewery by Pete Morelewicz, see more of Pete's creation at his studio in LibertyTown Arts Workshop ~ D.D.Lecky

“Cheers to Us”, Judy Green @Art First “Red Alert” @Artful Dimensions

.Canal Quarter Arts 3rd Friday, 1, “Art for All” Gallery represents and exhibits contemporary artists working in all styles and mediums, offering an open space where all creative voices may be heard. ~Jeannie Ellis

Special celebration on First Friday featuring music and refreshments.

The gallery is also featuring the work of one of Art First's original members this month-Linda Warshaw. Linda has been a member of Art First since it opened in 1992 and is a wonderful artist and a real gift to our gallery. Take this opportunity to enjoy the abundance of great art created by local FVBG-area artists for the 30th Anniversary of Art First. .. ~Jennifer Galvin

810 Caroline Street, Downtown 540.371.4099 “Radiant Roses” Beverley Coates 24

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“Winter Trees Gulf of Finland”, Penny A Parrish

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“Sunrise Princess Anne St”, Lynn Abbott

Artist on Site Saturdays

Linda Warshaw celebrating an artist

bY Jennifer Galvin ever since. Linda taught in various schools for 15 years. And, during the summers, she started to take art classes. In 1984, Linda received a BA in art and became an art teacher in the middle school. Linda says, "I loves to teach all aspects of art."

She taught art for another 15 years, so she taught a total of 30 years-what a gift!

Linda Warshaw has been a member at Art First Gallery since the beginning. As Art First Gallery celebrates its 30th Anniversary this month, we would like to celebrate Linda and all she has brought to the gallery.

Linda’s works in graphite, acrylics, mixed media, wire, and found objects. She also works in 2D, 3D, wearable art, cartooning, and writing. Linda says she, "does art for the sake of beautiful things, happy things, and hopeful things."

Linda's art always has a positive message.

She also has an amazing sense of humor which is often shown in her artwork. When I asked Linda what her favorite media was she said, "Mr. DiBella at University of Mary Washington says I'm a painter."

But, Linda loves it all!

"I started doing art at a very young age with things that I found."

Linda got good comments about her artwork from other students and peers all through school. Her family appreciated her artistic talent but were more practically oriented in their advice for her future. They encouraged her to become a teacher.

Linda took drawing classes from Mr. Lamph at University of Mary Washington. He told them, "don't worship yourself-just do it!" By this he meant to get your work done and not think too much of yourself or your art-be honest. A way to stay humble about your artwork.

Over the last 30 years, there have been many shows. At first, on Hanover Street they started out in studios. Then they moved to having more of a whole gallery look with new shows every month, which the gallery still does today. Linda's favorite shows over the years have been the All-Member shows. Linda says she like them because, "Everyone gets to show their work." She also says that it is, "Nice to have a show where we celebrate our anniversary."

Linda basically does it all! She has even written a self-illustrated book on horsemanship called "The Unofficial Incomplete Guide to Driving." Which is still for sale.

From 1998-2004 Linda and her husband even ran a theater for kids in Falmouth. Linda says, "We just had so many students interested that we outgrew our space at the school."

Linda made many of the costumes for the children at the theater.

Linda went to college and became a teacher in New Jersey and moved to Virginia in 1969. Linda then moved to Fredericksburg in 1972 and has lived here

Linda's artwork has won many awards over the years. She is also multi-published and has been part of many organizations in addition to Art First. Linda loves horses and is an active member in the Virginia Equine Artist Association.

Linda also met Jane Snead (a fellow past member of Art First), her best friend, while in this class. They shared experiences together and are still friends to this day.

In 1992 Art First was formed by a group of people in King George who were inspired by Jack Darling. The first space for Art First was on Hanover, then Art First moved here to 824 Caroline Street in 2004.

Linda has been an amazing part of the Fredericksburg art scene for many years and Art First is proud to have had her here as a member since 1992. Come to our 30th Anniversary CelebrationGlamour and Pearls to see Linda's work .

Jennifer Galvin is a local artist

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The Bowling Green Scene Happening Hamlet in the Heart of Caroline Co. By amy bayne Bowling Green. When his father could no longer work at the bench, Todd took over. He's been in business ever since, building a far-reaching clientele of returning customers.

Most small towns have their share of shops that come and go on Main Street, and Bowling Green is no exception.

Through boom times and bust, Tinders Jewelry and Gifts has had a place in this town's business district. Todd Tinder provides a variety of jewelry and gift items to his customers, but his specialty is custom work.

Tinder says, "Father opened the store 70 years ago in 1951. He was a watchmaker, and he built his business up from there."

Tinder has managed and owned the store for over 40 years. As a young man, he left home to study jewelry craft at an art school on the east coast. He hadn't planned to take over the business, but the time came when his father needed him, and Tinder discovered that he loved working with his customers in and around

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"I think a lot of people do like to work with the neighborhood jewelry store rather than going to the big box that pushes you through like cattle," Tinder says.

"I have loyal customers from this area, and there are those who moved away from here or have traveled through and liked working with me."

Tinder buys jewelry from a few companies he likes in addition to making custom pieces for the store. He tries to make things people can't find at chain jewelry stores, and he can customize pieces with specific stones if his suppliers don't make them.

Though his busiest season is over the winter holidays, Tinder says Valentine's Day tends to be a popular time for jewelry customs and purchases.

He says, "Hearts are popular. I'll make things with ruby because it's red. I do try to make items that my customers can wear year-round without being heartsy. Mother's rings are a popular item on Valentine's Day too."

Tinder says he's enjoyed seeing the growth in downtown Bowling Green. It was lonely for a while.

"It's nice to see other places coming in now. There's what I call the depression of 2008-2010 when things were tough. There was not much here.

The new shops are all good. Everyone

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seems to be getting along and it's diversified, and again, I hear young people saying they like it here. That's very encouraging."

Visit Tinders Jewelry and Gifts for your valentine, your galentine, or any special person you want to treat throughout the year Todd Tinder will hook you up with something special in the perfect setting and stones. Tinders is located at 113 North Main Street in downtown Bowling Green, Virginia. Contact Todd Tinder at (804) 633-5 5283 or TTinder@aol.com.

February Events in Bowling Green Feb 1 - Mar 5 - Spring Break: A Juried Exhibit Opens for Artists to Submit Work $25 for 3 pieces The Painted Horse Gallery invites you to submit images of up to three pieces of your best 2D or 3D work to our spring invitational, Spring Break: A Juried Exhibit. Prizes include: 1st Place $300; 2nd Place - $150; 3rd Place - $50; Honorable Mention. Work must be submitted and entry fees paid before March 6, 2022. Additional information at www.thepaintedhorse.org.

Feb. 5 - Vintage Valentine Wood Blocks $35 - The Painted Horse Gallery - 1-3 p.m.

Join us to create a fun Valentine gift or decoration. Instruction and supplies included with a glass of wine. You are welcome to bring a snack. This workshop focuses on concept, composition, and color combos. No previous experience needed.

Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.org Feb 12 - Valentine's Terrarium for Two $75 - The Painted Horse Gallery - 1-2:30 p.m. Bring your special friend or valentine and enjoy gourmet cupcake and a bubbly beverage while you each make your very own terrarium. Instruction and all supplies included. Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.org

Amy Bayne is a writer, artist, and educator who lives with her family and a menagerie of fur babies in Bowling Green, Virginia.

Judith Muffley February Cover Artist I was a Fredericksburg resident for 9 years but we moved this past August.

(Awaiting a home being built west of Culpeper) I love photography and was a frequent contributor of photos to the "On the Fredericksburg VA trail" page.

I started posting pictures that I took of Gary and he soon became a local icon.

After numerous requests that someone make a Gary calendar, I decided to step up and do it.

I made "Gotta Love Gary" in 2021 and "Gaga over Gary" in 2022. I sold and distributed 130 copies in 2021 and donated $500 in profits to The Friends of the Rappahannock. This year I partnered with the FCCA to sell 100 of my calendars and they will be the recipient of this year's profits.

Dr Marceline Catlett Leading at the speed of change by monica davis Marceline Rollins Catlett hadn't yet been born when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that separate schools for black and white students were "inherently unequal." The next year, when the court required that schools desegregate "with all deliberate speed," Catlett still wasn't even a twinkle in her father's eye.

But when the all-white Maury Elementary School in Fredericksburg, Virginia, started to admit African American students, the little girl was one of the first to walk in.

There, and through her activist parents, she saw that people are people regardless of skin tone. She also discovered her love of service and leadership, taking on student council and class presidencies throughout middle and high school.

Most of all, she learned that she loved people, children, and education.

She headed to Virginia State University and earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education in 1981 - the same year she started teaching 6th grade at Walker-G Grant Middle School, the school she'd attended as a child.

In Dr. Catlett, the Fredericksburg City Public School community has an empathetic local, someone who knows them and their kids. She is the daughter, sister, wife, and mother who has lived Fredericksburg's hard history since she herself was a first-grader, dressed in her Sunday best, walking nervously through the doors of a school that might not want her.

Monica Davis the founder of Exceptional People Magazine her mission is to enhance the quality of life of all people by promoting goodwill, unity and better living through positive media. Through this magazine you will be inspired to reach new heights.

Black History Month Keynote Program: Dr. Marceline Catlett Tuesday, February 9, 7 pm Chandler Ballroom C, University Center Dr. Marceline Catlett is the 25th Division Superintendent of Fredericksburg City Public Schools and a Fredericksburg native. She attended Virginia State University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She went on to earn a Master of Education Degree in

Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia. After earning Postgraduate Certificates from VCU, Oxford University, Harvard University, and Howard University, Dr. Catlett earned a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University She has been recognized for her notable achievements in education, leadership, and community service.

Awards include the 2018 Hugh Mercer Elementary School African American Community Award, the Women Education Leaders in Virginia 2017 Spirit Award, the 2017 UMW Patricia Lacey Metzger Distinguished Achievement Award the 2015 Excel Award in Education women in Worship Ministries, the 2011 Fredericksburg Regional Boys & Girls Club of the Greater Washington Area Outstanding Service to Youth Award.

Dr. Catlett serves on many boards throughout the Fredericksburg region including Smart beginnings, Mary Washington Healthcare, UMW's Community Advisory Committee on Diversity, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Fredericksburg Area Youth Development Foundation Sunshine Ballpark, the Boys & Girls Club of the Greater Washington Area, as well as the Rappahannock Area American Red Cross

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Companions I “Heart” You by gerri reid, dvm breath. These symptoms are very common with HD and if your pet is having any of these signs, it is recommended to see your Regular Veterinarian for an evaluation.

Once your pet is diagnosed with Heart Disease, your Veterinarian may recommend further diagnostics or tests.

These test include a radiograph or X-ray to evaluate the heart and lungs. Other tests may include an Ultrasound of the heart and blood test. This will help identify the severity of the disease as well as what medications are needed for treatment. At times, some pets will be referred to a Veterinary Cardiologist for further evaluation.

Treatment may include medications to help manage the function of the heart, regular 6 month check-ups as well as a low sodium diet. These treatments can effective when managing heart disease

Love is in the Air! February is the month we celebrate Saint Valentine’s Day and recognize our loved ones with cards, flowers and of course, candy! Many countries and religions will honor “Love and Romance” in an array of ways. But February is also American Heart Month.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States.

But did you know that not just humans are affected by heart disease?

We commonly see heart disease in dogs and cats. So, since we Love our pets, let’s discuss heart disease a bit more.

Pet owners regularly take their pets to their Veterinarian to maintain their health and well-being. As pets get older, there are conditions such as Heart Disease or that are commonly diagnosed.

Common questions I am asked frequently from pet owners are “What can I do to prevent it?” or “What are the signs of Heart Disease” and lastly “How is it treated”?

So, let me answer these questions and help pet understand heart disease.

Heart Disease (HD) is an abnormality of the heart. Dog breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Miniature Poodles, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Boxers and Miniature Schnauzers are prone to this disease more than other breeds. Clinical signs of HD include lack of energy, excessive/persistent coughing, or difficulty breathing or shortness of

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Lastly, how do you prevent Heart Disease? Weight management and exercise are always important to maintain your pet’s overall health. With the advancements of Veterinary Medicine, Heart Disease can be very well managed in both dogs and cats. I highly recommend yearly exams with your regular Veterinarian as early detection /diagnosis of Heart Disease is key to your pet’s heart health.

Heart Disease, when undiagnosed or untreated, can be deadly in both humans and pets. American Heart Month was established in December of 1963 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

It was declared that February was the month we would recognize Heart Disease and support all programs that bring Awareness, Prevention and Treatment for the disease. As we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th, let this be a day that we, as pet owners, will be reminded to schedule your pet’s yearly checkup.

Knowing the symptoms of Heart Disease as well as the breeds that are most affected by it will ensure early detection and management. So, have a ? and give your pet the Gift of Heart Health this month. ?

Dr. Gerri S. Reid is the Owner/Veterinarian of Reid Mobile Veterinary Services. She can be reached at 540-623-3029 or reidmobilevetservices.com or facebook @ReidMobileVetServices Photo of Kaja by Reid Mobile Services

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THE POETRY MAN

Astrology & You february, short & sweet

By Frank Fratoe

By Dianne Bachman

Pause and Consider

conjunction with the lunar nodes. These conjunctions and squares are based on Ptolemaic angles on the zodiac wheel and are not to be confused with the astronomical term "Moon Wobble."

Just stop whatever you are doing and catch sight of what is there.

Share a fascination with others whenever cloudbanks drift apart.

Watch a darkened river glide out toward starlamps enduring above.

Let the air overwhelm you until it embraces the whole of mankind.

Then turn to acknowledge at once all the people you could admire.

And discover each other’s worth of our brotherhood newly certain.

Because so much marvelous there awaits the love friends deserve.

Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city.he loves.

One of the more interesting astrological events for February is a Moon Wobble at 4:18 pm on the 15th. What is a Moon wobble? It is an astrological event that occurs about every 86.5 days when the Sun makes either an exact square or

A man by the name of Carl Payne Tobey discovered the phenomenon in the 1940s, originally calling it "lunar node instability". Mr. Tobey was exploring the relationship between insurance claims and accidents and astrological cycles. He wrote: "When the Sun is conjunct or square the lunar nodes there is human instability.

People are excitable. They are more easily confused. Their reactions are emotional rather than intellectual." So, it is not that horrible things happen because of this wobble, but perhaps people are thinking less clearly and it makes us more susceptible to things like fires and accidents.

The good thing is, if we are tuned in to ourselves and our environment, we can feel these shifts and take better care not to be impulsive, to practice excellent care. The energy can be sensed a week or so before and after the exact date. Think of it this way: If we know there is a high probability of rain, we can properly prepare ourselves for negotiating a downpour. The same goes for astrological weather. If you journal it might be an interesting exercise to look back every 86.5 days from the current wobble to see how Moon wobbles might or might not have impacted your day to day. This is a topic of ongoing research for me, and maybe it will spark your interest, too.

Here is more astrological weather for the month of February: February 1 the new Moon will be in Aquarius. New Moons are always an excellent time to meditate on what we would like to manifest in our lives.

Aquarius focus is on groups, hobbies, social networks, and things that relate to the greater good. Saturn will be conjunct the Moon at this time, adding themes around structure, responsibilities, and planning to this new Moon energy.

February 3 Mercury will station direct, though the forward moving energy will be toned down a bit in Capricorn. We might feel more fretful or find ourselves experiencing a bit of melancholy, but this heaviness lifts on the 15th when Mercury enters the sign of Aquarius.

February 4 the Sun is conjunct Saturn, illuminating the ideas we discovered during the new Moon. This

month it is best to take any projects slow and steady. We are still in a recovery period from Mercury retrograde, so pace yourself.

February 12 Mercury is conjunct Pluto, giving depth to our thoughts and perceptions. Some may feel a shift in thinking and want to dive deeply into patterns around communication or how we perceive responsibility. Pluto can be intense, but this transit is a quick one, lasting only a week or so. Pause and remember to breathe!

Happy Valentine's Day on February 14! And guess which two planets will be conjunct at 15 degrees of Capricorn? Mars and Venus! What a perfect aspect for this day of passion. And, it doesn't have to be romantic passion.

You may find yourself feeling enthusiastic about anything like hobbies or even astrology!

February 14 Mercury enters Aquarius, so put your best thinking caps on because Mercury in Aquarius can be very innovative and original. Pay homage to your unique ideas by sharing them with others.

February 16 brings us to a full Moon in Leo, a wonderful time to find your bliss, to play, to be creative and kick your heels up. Plan something fun today.

Coupled with the Venus/Mars conjunction, this definitely adds jet fuel to the passion mix.

February 18 the Sun enters the sign of Pisces at 11:43 a.m. I like to think of Pisces season as a time to take advantage of the last bits of a slower pace.

Winter is melting into spring, and we have a bit of time yet to focus on our inner lives, our spiritual selves, our dreaming Meditation, music, creative selves. thought, and solitude for self-rreflection are all supported during this time before Aries gets off to a running start in March.

February 22 the USA (depending on which chart you use) will experience its Pluto return, back to the same sign and degree that it was in 1774. More on this important transit next month.

Diane Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at FourwindsastrologyLLC@gmail.com Painting by Hildegarde VonBingen

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Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

806 Mercer Street As I write this, the Big Snow of early January is still hanging around in spots and people are still cleaning up downed trees and branches and restocking their refrigerators. .

Snow does present a good opportunity for interesting sketches though so here is my little bright green house done on January 3rd. With all the white, it's just easiest to leave the paper color and draw around the lumps. Bright colors, like my house, really stand out so that's fun to highlight. Much of this one was done inside because my fingers and toes were getting numb. I use fingerless gloves but that still exposes my vulnerable digits.

Don't let the weather stop you from sketching if you get the urge. There's plenty of things to draw without leaving the comforts of your home. Happy sketching!

Paula Raudenbush is a local artist and organizer of the Fredericksburg Chapter of Urban Sketchers International (on Facebook at Urban Sketchers Fredericksburg.

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

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810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Grindstone & Crocs shop local, listen local, be local By ted schubel -John Hennessy and the other local historians melding the past with the present -Bob Wittingham's energy and creativity in creating Christmas windows each year -The fabulous group of people with energy and ideas at Downtown Greens

....You Never Know What You'll Find or Who You'll Meet This is the story of a grindstone and some Crocs. The ultimate message is shop local, listen local, be local.

I've been reporting news in this area since 1983. But after the recession and many cuts in this industry in 2008 I decided to become super-ssuper local in news coverage. While most national, state and some local news could be found online, there are still all kinds of stories waiting to be told-and I would tell them.

And over the years I've met some amazing people and covered stories-a few come to mind (and I realize more stories should be on this list-and I apologize that it didn't jump into my mind at this moment): -The depth and courage of Ceili Leahy and the Day of Service her parents and students have organized -The vision Dave Muraca and others at the George Washington Foundation had in rebuilding the family home at Ferry Farm -The determination of Cooking Autism -Jason Tickle transforming the landscape in Caroline County one home at a time with Habitat for Humanity

Shop Local Welcome to Downtown Fredericksburg’s Main Street District

These and so many others are part of our community. I'd like to think outlets like Front Porch Magazine or local radio shows like Town Talk on Newstalk 1230/WFVA have been able to highlight many in this region in unique ways over the years.

Which brings me to a grindstone.

Up until high school, I grew up in Grindstone City, Michigan. In the early 1900's, a large quarry operation took stones from the ground.

My greatgrandfather worked there. I had a few small grindstones that I had collected. But over the years, and moves, they had become lost or broken.

But then in late November I walked into an antique store on Caroline Street in downtown Fredericksburg. And there on the floor, for sale, a small grindstone. I scooped it up. Bought it.

Treasure found. Had I decided not to do all my Christmas shopping downtown it would have likely not been found by me.

In early December, April Peterson and Ann Glave with Fredericksburg Downtown presented me with Crocs customized with the words "Voice of FXBG" for business coverage during the pandemic. A Murrow award wouldn't hold as much meaning as that gift. It galvanized for me that decision to focuslocal.

In recent months death has taken two local media voices from us far too soon. Mark Clifford spent years on the radio at B101.5, WFVA and WGRQ. Mike Nevell was on local cable TV and also on radio stations WGRQ and Thunder 104.5.

Both were all about the community. Mike loved covering local sports. Before we knew each other, Mike interviewed my daughter after a high school cross country race. He made her feel that her accomplishment was SportsCenter-worthy.

I worked with Mark for five years, but knew him much longer. I learned more day-to-day practical broadcasting knowledge/writing/presenting than I did in any journalism class. Once I reported that a robbery had occurred at the "Washington Square Shopping Center."

When we got off air, he matter-of-factly said, "next time how about we just say the Ferry Farm Walmart."

With new employees, he'd want them to know and memorize the different names for Route 3 in the area.

Mike and Mark were local. My grindstone find was local. Look around.

Become involved.

Get to know your neighbors. They might just know where to find that present you've always wanted.

Ted Schubel is B101.5 News Director and Host of Town Talk on NewsTalk1230 WFVA

fredericksburgdowntown.org

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