Front Porch Fredericksburg - July 2014 by Virginia Grogan

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LOCAL GOOD LIFE

front porch T H E R E G I O N ' S free C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E

L o c a l G o o d N e w s S i n c e 1 9 97 YEAR 18 • ISSUE 204 • JULY 2014

Frontporchfredericksburg.com

contents

closeups 11

Our Heritage: so a historian walks into a bar... history’s stories.: monument to mary washington

companions: external parasites the caring cat

Yes, Chef talent from the bethem kitchen

autoknown better: poughkeepsie, pt2 hollyburg: oscars haunt fxbg poetryman: liberation

Jack Hyland ... tapping into the community

Senior Care: forever young

wellness: mindfullness amidst the madness ipde: an attitude of gratitude

the summer garden ... nick cadwallender

Art in the ‘Burg

scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

fxbg music: Laurelyn Dossett

community link: youth mental health 1st aid

call for artists

porchlight: independence day

renew... your mind, your taste buds

porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

..5

yoga voice:path to inner creativity willowmere weekends

bee-witched, bee-wildered.....at downtown greens

goodskills at goodwill

VA Wineries... adult-only new trend at VA wineries?

award-winning artist finds inspiration in his hometown By Susan Ujka Larson

...And more!

stafford 350: stafford county gold My own path:follow the leader

vino: rosÈ is not a blush Cooking with kyle

season’s bounty: greens

fxbg sandwich invitational

beate jensen on landscaping tips

16-17

Calendar of events

fairy godmother project

Casey Shaw paints the town

find yourself: fxbg tribal quest

Cover photo By Robert A. martin

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Casey Alan Shaw Paints the Town Fredericksburg resident Casey Alan Shaw always knew what he wanted to do. “I don’t think I ever had a choice. The hard part was limiting myself.” The award-winning artist began by drawing and cartooning for his high school publications, but only recently held his first solo show. “FXBG” featured paintings, prints and drawings focused on Fredericksburg subjects. “I grew up in San Antonio, with lots of art and interesting places,” Shaw said. I knew living someplace you can take it for granted. So I find my sources of inspiration in Fredericksburg. I’m never lacking for ideas.”

Texas Beginnings While at Robert E. Lee High School in San Antonio, Shaw corresponded with Cartoonist Guy Berkeley “Berke” Breathed, best known for the syndicated Bloom County of the 1980s. At the time Breathed was attending the University of Texas at Austin and drawing a comic strip for the school’s daily paper. “I decided I’d do the same when I went to college,” Shaw said. As a sophomore at North Texas State, he did. That led to an international opportunity. Joe Camp, producer/director of the “Benji” movies, was talking with a friend at the Dallas Morning News about starting a “Benji” comic strip. Shaw’s work at the nearby college was noticed, and he was invited to help create the strip. He worked on it full-time while going to school. The New York Times Special Features Syndicate had “Benji” in 15 countries. “It wasn’t a huge strip, but it kept going for a few years,” Shaw said.

The Real World Shaw graduated and “Benji” ended at about the same time. In the real world, you have to pay the bills, so Shaw found jobs that incorporated art and relegated his personal creation to his spare time. “I found doing something all day long, like illustration, graphic design, computer graphics and even software copyright and trademark law actually informed my art,” Shaw said. When the Internet came along, Shaw learned to code and was soon designing and managing websites. He came to Virginia to work with USA Today developing some of the earliest sites and content on America Online (AOL).

New to Painting at 50 With all that experience, Shaw is relatively new to painting. “I’ve drawn ever since I was a kid, but for some reason I didn’t pick up a brush to try my hand at painting until my 50th birthday.” As a birthday gift to himself, Shaw took classes with Bill Harris at LibertyTown Arts Workshop. “Bill’s class was the kick-start to production of more tangible items,” Shaw said. “When I came home in the evening, I wanted to paint.” When Art First invited Shaw to join the downtown gallery, Shaw’s style and production changed even more. “After just two months with Art First, I had dozens of colleagues and friends, and it made a big difference,” he said. “I like the energy, the give and take. It’s part of the fun.” He likes the monthly deadlines, too. “Preparing something to exhibit each month is my opportunity to use it or

loose it,” he said. He often produces two to three pieces a month, often starting at 9 p.m. on a Saturday and working through the night. Vintage travel posters from the early 20th century heavily influence his art. “I really love the visual look of the super flat colors and reducing images down to their basic design structure,” he said. Shaw will soon celebrate 20 years with USA Today’s USA Weekend Magazine, where he serves as creative director. “I love what I do during the day and I love what I do in the evening,” he said. The kid who always knew what he wanted to do is doing it and loving it. Susan Ujka Larson is a freelance writer and photographer, a member of Art First Gallery, and owner/publisher of Fredericksburg.Today. You may contact her at fredericksburgtoday@gmail.com

photo by lauren shaw

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

contents

closeups 11

Our Heritage: so a historian walks into a bar... history’s stories.: monument to mary washington

companions: external parasites the caring cat

Yes, Chef talent from the bethem kitchen

autoknown better: poughkeepsie, pt2 hollyburg: oscars haunt fxbg poetryman: liberation

Jack Hyland ... tapping into the community

Senior Care: forever young

wellness: mindfullness amidst the madness ipde: an attitude of gratitude

the summer garden ... nick cadwallender

Art in the ‘Burg

scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

fxbg music: Laurelyn Dossett

community link: youth mental health 1st aid

call for artists

porchlight: independence day

renew... your mind, your taste buds

porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

..5

yoga voice:path to inner creativity willowmere weekends

bee-witched, bee-wildered.....at downtown greens

goodskills at goodwill

VA Wineries... adult-only new trend at VA wineries?

award-winning artist finds inspiration in his hometown By Susan Ujka Larson

...And more!

stafford 350: stafford county gold My own path:follow the leader

vino: rosÈ is not a blush Cooking with kyle

season’s bounty: greens

fxbg sandwich invitational

beate jensen on landscaping tips

16-17

Calendar of events

fairy godmother project

Casey Shaw paints the town

find yourself: fxbg tribal quest

Cover photo By Robert A. martin

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

photo by lauren shaw

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Jeremy Sutton

Guest Porch Page Editor

Contributing Writers & Artists Lynn Abott Nancy Bauer A.E.Bayne Helen Butler Megan Byrnes Tom Byrnes Collette Caprara C.Ruth Cassell Rick Collier Ryan Davis Arch Di Peppe Frank Fratoe Joan Geisler Steve Hickman Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Karl Karch David Kerr Susan Ujka Larson Wendy LaRue Jo Loving Andi McConnell Bob Martin John McLaughlin Vanessa Moncure Fritz Newton Gary Olsen Gabe Pons M.L.Powers Dewey Reynolds Scott Richards Lauren Shaw Emily Taggert Schricker John Sovitsky Jeremy Sutton James Kyle Snyder Christine Thompson Thea Verdak Rim Vining Mary Vreeland Michelle Wagaman Suzy Woollam

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 submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers are welcome to request Writer’s Guidelines and query the Editor by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: Stacy.Howell@gmail.com E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com 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 2014 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

ON THE PORCH

July 2014

a path to inner creativity

BY Jeremy Sutton Time is likely the human invention that got the most out of control. We did invent it, remember. Without our conscientious marking the turn of the earth is just a cycle, a repetitive repeat of what’s been happening all along. We give those “days” power by defining them as such. Winter, summer, the flowing of water, sunrise, volcanoes, birth, living and death; all these things happen without our influence or permission. But a year only passes because we say it does. An hour is only an hour because we say so. We can’t even speak about the experience of our lives without referencing our own invention in words like “duration,” “time,” “birthday,” or a number value assigned to a particular stretch, “age”. And it’s about age, that Front Porch this piece begins. Fredericksburg is turning 18 years old with this very issue. Before we go metaphorically further here, I want to address something quickly, that I hope brings a bit of relevance and clarity to the rest of this piece and indeed this paper as it goes forward. This On the Porch could easily be a re-telling of the story of dewey-eyed Rob and Virginia Grogan 18 years ago, starting up a downtown paper in Fredericksburg, VA. Of the trials and tribulations and ultimate triumph of a bootstraps endeavor that came to define not only their lives but help define our local culture and ourselves as a community. And that would be a great piece, and I hope somebody writes it some day. But here on the precipice of big changes for Front Porch Fredericksburg I think it’s a disservice to sit and fondle the past in this space. Time, both the subject and the verb here, does not judge our use of it, but will also neither forgive or refund. In this country, we imbue the age of 18 with a lot of gravitas. You are an adult, in all it’s legally binding glory. But it’s a little more than just the turn of a calendar and the recognition of state and local authorities that lends this age it’s power. 18 is a fulcrum, a point of leverage for which the rest of our lives are often pitched. Any parent can tell you that years 0-18 mark far and away the biggest growth and change for most of us. In not quite 20 years we go from completely defenseless/helpless wrigglers to fullmotion humans, full of words, skills, opinions, wants and desires, hopes and dreams. That’s a lot of work even for a good chunk of time. The first 18 years saw this paper born from the love of Rob and Virginia for each other and for Fredericksburg. It was raised literally on the streets of

YOGAVOICE

Front porch fredericksburg

By Mary Vreeland

downtown, and counts many, many aunts and uncles in the writers and artists that have contributed to it’s pages, and have helped raise it up, and given it life and love heretofore. The shopkeepers and business owners that have taken out ads, the tourists and residents that have read this rag cover to cover and taken home a copy for their friends and family and spread it’s good news. But now this paper has grown full, and is now about to take it’s own path. All of us who have contributed to it’s growth will be happy to be there for Front Porch, and to help and assist in any way we can. That’s what love does. But there’s no doubt that here soon, changes will come around, and Front Porch will enter the next phase of it’s life. Where it will go will be almost anyone’s guess. Safe to say we all hope it sticks around, and safe to say we all hope there’s a continued focus on downtown Fredericksburg. But also safe to say many of us will have no real influence over those things, as we release this well-loved child out to the world. Time, for all it’s power, really only controls the past. Not knowing what the next second, minute or hour will bring means that time as it has yet to exist is fairly pliable, and fairly open to interpretation. The safety and knowledge of the last 18 years shouldn’t default the next 18 years as scary and unpredictable, simply as unknown and inevitable. Time helps us mark our changes, and for all of us involved with Front Porch, this time will be a major marker indeed. But that’s not to fret, and not to dismay. A wonderful group of citizens has raised this publication through the last 18 years and has watched it become something of which we can all be very proud. And when it turns back to wave and smile as it takes off for the next big step, we’ll all be smiling and waving, too, wishing “Good luck!” from the front porch.

Jeremy Sutton, this month’s guest “On the Porch” writer, turned 18 many years ago, but tries not to let that bother him.

Publisher’s Note: Front Porch Fredericksburg would like to recognize three writers who have been with us since the beginning: Arch DiPeppe, Rim Vining and the recently retired Jo Middleton. Many thanks for all of your hard work and dedication over the last two decades, and for breathing life into this wonderful being. Front Porch would also like to send a special thank you to the following advertisers, each of whom have also been here since the beginning. Without you we literally could not have made it, thanks for being there for us: Bodyworks , White Oak Animal Hospital, Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Gemstone Creations, Jabberwocky Children’s Books, Roxbury Farm and Garden, and Whittingham, And those Advertisers who have been with us for the last decade Hyperion Espresso, Natural Path, Perma Treat, Sammy T’s, J.Brian’s, General Store, FCCA, LaPetite, Art First, Betsy Gassie Paintings, Copper Shop, Trolley Tours, HomeInstead, Bistro Bethem.. And a very special shout-out to a group of folks who have been part of the Front Porch Family for many years as distributors, writers, and much more: Aby Bethem, Jessica Sutton, Ruth Cassell, Steve Camelli, Beverly Coates, Kathy Harrigan, Frank Fratoe, Vanessa Moncure, Andi Gabler, Jenny McGee, Miranda Reynolds, Tuffy Hicks, Tom Byrnes, Collette Capara, and Amy Bayne. And of course, a big thank you to the community of Fredericksburg for reading “cover-to-cover” this humble little hometown magazine for the past 18 years.

A few years ago, my husband John was on sabbatical from his position as Director of Music Ministries at St. George’s Episcopal Church. That summer, he signed up for several continuing education offerings at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, N.J. One of his weeklong classes was something called YogaVoice® Yoga Voice? Really? Not two things I normally thought about in the same sentence. I followed John’s progress during this class, because I was curious about how this was going to turn out. He was clearly hooked on the concepts and practices after just a couple of days, so I shrugged my shoulders and thought, well, okay. It sounds kind of weird, but there must be something to it. Then I had the opportunity to meet and work with Mark Moliterno myself. It turns out that YogaVoice® is a very interesting pairing, indeed. I attended an afternoon master class the last time Moliterno was in Fredericksburg, and I’m very glad I did. The session helped the entire class feel relaxed and rejuvenated, and we achieved levels of sound, creativity, and joy in singing that we hadn’t realized were possible. YogaVoice helps develop the selfawareness that leads to personal authenticity and creative self-expression. St. George’s Episcopal Church is pleased to offer our community the opportunity to work with Moliterno during our upcoming YogaVoice Weekend, scheduled for July 1820. Through a combination of techniques that address the whole person, Moliterno guides the class to help each person explore:

Physical postures that help assess and remove blockages from the physical instrument (the voice). Breathing practices that help build pulmonary function, breath management, and mental focus. Concentration and meditation that helps identify deeper levels of personal truth as a foundation for expression. Karma Yoga offers insight into personal purpose, as well as the nature and quality of work. User-ffriendly vocal techniques that connect mind and body through creating intentional sound. Toning, singing and chanting that help promote energetic balance and connect with the joy of singing. There are two options to participate. If you are only interested in hearing more about the YogaVoice® concept, join us for Friday’s introductory evening lecture session from 7:00-9:00 p.m. for just $25. The full weekend schedule includes the Friday evening lecture, plus: Saturday, July 19, 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Lunch is included) Sunday, July 20, 12:30 - 5:30 PM Tuition for the entire program is $150.00. Space is limited, so sign up early. For more information about the program, or to register for the event, visit the St. George’s Episcopal Church website atwww.stgeorgesepiscopal.net. There is a link that will take readers to the information and registration page. We’ll see you there! Mary Vreeland is a singer and active participant in St. George’s Music Program. Mark Moliterno holds both a Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Voice and Opera from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music.

Stress-rreducing practices to help establish a balanced and expressive lifestyle.

ROXBURY F

ARM

MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802

Willowmere Weekends By Steve Hickman Awakening the masterful spirit within each person through knowledge, trust and self-awareness. The sky over Willowmere is broad and full of stars. Guests at any evening event can hear frogs peeping, feel the warmth of the fire and enjoy the moon’s reflection in three acres of pond. Daytime retreat guests toss corn to the flock of mahogany and white speckled hens, enjoy shady rests under centurian black walnut trees and, if it’s hot, take a dip in the chlorine-free pool. People visit to improve themselves in knowledge, skill or selfawareness. Some drive from out of state to spend the day learning to plant and grow their own shitake mushrooms. Others come twice a week for yoga or meditation. Others come to deepen their mastery of a subject they are already skilled in, like teaching violin. Many come to speak truthfully and get private or group coaching on what they most want to change or grow in their lives. Willowmere Weekends was created by Evolution of Contentment Master Coach and motivational speaker Jen Furlong to meet the needs of a growing audience for events that go beyond agri-tainment and skill-based recreation classes. Once a two hundred and eighteen acre sheep and corn farm, it seems everyone local person who stops by Willowmere has a story to tell. The man who brings the pony hay fondly remembers farming the land three decades ago, the neighbor who now walks his dogs at the park across the street fished the pond with the family who owned it longer ago than that. The Furlongs who currently own and reside at the property sadly were not kin to any of its prior owners nor did they see the farm fully operational. Breathing it full of new life has become the project of the Furlong family who maintain a productive garden and a flock of poultry that includes a pair of peafowl gifted by a breeder in Ithaca, NY. Willowmere Weekends hosts a variety of events. Topics range from coaching and life development workshops

to All Ages Fiddle Camp and Family Fine Art Camp. At Willowmere, values are about everyone learning so this is not the sort of place where parents hover over children. Children create art under the leadership of a skilled instructor while adult campers work separately with guides of their own. Everyone gathers for meals or special events during the day, but each person is allowed to experience Willowmere as it best suits their personal needs. “Our mission is to create a space where people can really awaken to themselves,” says Furlong. The spunky former film and theatre professional also mentions that Willowmere is first on the list to receive a donated farm from the Virginia Farm Project Foundation, vafarmproject.org, to convert into a full scale functioning farm and retreat center somewhere in Virginia. “We can’t accommodate overnight guests at Willowmere because this is also our home,” says Furlong. “In the big center we will host week long events, and offer daily yoga, equestrian and music lessons.” For Info: Willowmereweekends.com, 540-752-2365 willowmereweekends@gmail.com Steve Hickman teaches at Willowmere Fiddle Camp

& GARDEN CENTER

Since 1929

601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.com

We have all your gardening needs! Come Shop With Us

-VBG

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Jeremy Sutton

Guest Porch Page Editor

ON THE PORCH

July 2014

a path to inner creativity

YOGAVOICE

Front porch fredericksburg

By Mary Vreeland

Jeremy Sutton, this month’s guest “On the Porch” writer, turned 18 many years ago, but tries not to let that bother him.

Stress-rreducing practices to help establish a balanced and expressive lifestyle.

ROXBURY F

ARM

MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802

& GARDEN CENTER

Since 1929

601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.com

We have all your gardening needs! Come Shop With Us

-VBG

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Bee-Witched,Bee-Bothered, Bee-Wildered

GoodSkills at Goodwill

Beehive at downtown greens

vOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR LITERACY TUTORING

By a.e.bayne

By John Sovitsky It’s wonderful to be alive To be a bee in this beehive It’s tough as nails, it’s smooth as silk It’s milk and honey without milk -‘B-Side’ by Loudon Wainwright III I heard that a beehive had come to the Community Garden at Downtown Greens only a few days after Virginia asked me to write an article, I felt kismet had dealt me another winning hand. Mike Costa invited me to join him as he trained the fledgling apiarists at Downtown Greens. While I have always been wary of stinging insects, it’s been years since I’ve been stung and always in retaliation for being stepped or sat upon, never an act of aggression. The experience was fascinating and educational. I’m glad I went. After a City Council vote opened the door to beekeeping in the city, the staff began taking steps to house a colony of these industrious pollinators in the garden. Staff members attended beekeeping classes and arranged the site inspection by the City Animal Control officer to verify the proper setbacks and a suitable water supply. Arrangements were made to obtain the colony from a

beekeeper in Rock Church. In early June, Downtown Greens purchased a nucleus colony of honey bees (Apis mellifera). The ‘nuc’ consists of a queen, a number of drones and workers and five wooden frames upon which the bees build their comb. The frames h a n g vertically in a s i m p l e wooden box w h i c h protects the colony from the elements. On a warm Wednesday evening, we congregated at the site and Mike ran us through an inspection of the hive. After puffing a little smoke to calm the bees, he opened the hive and showed staff how to check on the condition of the colony. We saw the bees had consumed their food, a sugar solution which is a supplement to the pollen and nectar they gather. It is common to feed a hive until it is wellestablished. This helps when workers are

building out the frames that contain the comb. Comb is a hexagonal array

of wax tubes that serve the colony as n u r s e r y , larder and home. A healthy hive consists of multiple frames containing brood (eggs and immature bees), honey, and pollen. During peak nectar gathering periods, additional frames of comb are filled with the honey needed to feed the hive during the winter. A colony may produce over 100 pounds of honey in a single year! The new hive seemed healthy, with many cells holding larvae in different stages and workers busily going about their assorted jobs. The female worker

progresses through tasks as it ages, feeding the larvae, cleaning the hive, building comb and finally foraging outside the hive collecting pollen and nectar. The bees were not bothered by our inspection and after checking the frames out, the hive was carefully reassembled and staff planned their inspection next week. It’s a win-win situation as the bees will be excellent pollinators and will service gardens throughout the city as bees travel several miles in search of nectar. They will also provide educational services as I imagine many will share the wonderful experience I had being so close to one of nature’s wonders. John Sovitsky is fascinated by these industrious insects and can’t wait to visit again, guess he caught the buzz!

More than 40 VA wineries now open late! Find your favorite Summer Night at VAWineInMyPocket.com"

It is easy to turn a blind eye to the problems in our area. On the surface, ours is a burgeoning community, abundant in the arts, often affluent, and teeming with informed citizens at ease in discussing the latest local and national debates. What some may not know is that according to data collected by Rappahannock Goodwill Industries, there are roughly 36,300 adults in our area who face a barrier to meaningful participation in our community’s shared goals, a barrier to education, and a barrier to employment that would allow them to earn a living wage and attain the comfort that so many of us take for granted. That barrier is illiteracy. Over the past two years, AmeriCorps and Goodwill have been breaking that barrier through a concerted effort to recruit and train volunteers to help those in most need. Goodwill’s mission has long been to provide educational and vocational services to people with goals of finding and maintaining work, and they are often able to accomplish this through their successful Job Help Centers that assist with resumes, job searches, filling out applications, practicing interviews, and computer training. However, people who

seek their services with the added hindrance of illiteracy in basic reading, math, or computer skills require further assistance. That’s where GoodSkills steps in to help. Shanna Boutchyard, Goodwill’s AmeriCorps Program Director, describes the situation, “What started us on the track of trying to assist people who are facing illiteracy is that we kept seeing it in the job help centers and it was a barrier that required more one-on-one help than we could provide there. We wondered what we could do to serve these individuals. In the beginning, we adopted a volunteer system that existed through the local library when their facilitator retired. Goodwill had prior experience with AmeriCorps, so we thought about how these programs could work together.” Well into their second year, the GoodSkills Literacy Corps continues to mobilize volunteers and serve those who need it most. Goodwill leads the literacy training efforts for AmeriCorps members, and AmeriCorps funds the program and acts as the recruitment and administrative body, also providing their time as tutors. To date, the program has 20 community recruited volunteers committed to six months of work for one to two hours each

week, but they are always in need of more. “We really take the time to answer any questions that the volunteers and participants have, and we’re always here to make volunteers as comfortable as possible as they assist our participants,” says Ian Cardenas, AmeriCorps member and an administrator with GoodSkills. According to Boutchyard, potential GoodSkills volunteers need only submit an application to get started, adding, “We’ll invite them to one of the quarterly trainings we offer, and then we’ll match them with one of our full-time AmeriCorps members to act as a support to them after their training. They can even shadow our AmeriCorps trainers to see how they do their one-on-ones before working with their own program participant.” Cardenas concludes, “Since it’s only our second year, the community doesn’t know about us yet. We’re not only looking for volunteers, but we also hope that people reading this might think of us

photo by robert a. martin. if they know someone who needs our services.” For those interested in utilizing GoodSkills, Cardenas explains that the process includes a pre- and post-test called the TABE, Test for Adult Basic Education, which allows AmeriCorps members and volunteer tutors to cater lessons at a suitable pace individual to each participant. Boutchyard explains, “The unique thing about GoodSkills is that it doesn’t have a set curriculum. We want to meet people where they are and help them set individual goals; then we will help them accomplish those goals the best way possible.” For more information about GoodSkills Literacy Corps, please email americorps@FredGoodwill.org, or call (540) 371 – 3070 ext. 259. A.E. Bayne is a teacher, writer, and artist living in Fredericksburg, VA.

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged 6

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Bee-Witched,Bee-Bothered, Bee-Wildered

GoodSkills at Goodwill

Beehive at downtown greens

vOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR LITERACY TUTORING

By a.e.bayne

building out the frames that contain the comb. Comb is a hexagonal array

More than 40 VA wineries now open late! Find your favorite Summer Night at VAWineInMyPocket.com"

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged 6

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

VA. WINERIES

Find Your Self

Is Adults-Only the New Trend in Virginia Wineries?

at fredericksburg’s tribal quest By dewey reynolds

by nancy bauer & rick Collier and experiencing the wonderment of children who don’t normally get to spend time on a farm.” Not so much, says frequent winery Christine visitor Armentrout of Ashburn. “I have been to more than my fair share of wineries, Chateau O’Brien “Since when did it become fashionable to go drinking with your infants and toddlers?” gripes a frustrated Virginia winery fan.

If you want to start a flamer on Facebook, ask about kids and wineries.

Andy Melton, a partner and employee of Barrel Oak Winery in Delaplane – a popular venue known for its come-one, come-all vibe – has a lyrical take on the debate: “The wonder and joy of watching what God brings forth year after year is something to be enjoyed and treasured. To deny this to families with children seems snobbish and elitist. I enjoy watching families spending time together

Wineries are noticing the growing anti-children sentiment, but it’s not easy to find a solution that works. Hunters Run Wine Barn owner Geri Gleeson-N Nolan says her winery had to close the play area they’d set aside for kids because parents wouldn’t watch them. Now it’s an adultsonly space, which works better for everyone. Jennifer Breaux of Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville, one of the state’s largest wineries, says they’ll be adding adults-only space in the future, and Susan Bradley Mitchell from Willowcroft Farm Winery in Leesburg reports that they are keeping an eye on the trend.

“Do not even get me started on this topic!” says another. “Outside is one thing, but children should not be inside of wineries at all. It’s just like a bar.”

In the fierce competition for customers, Virginia wineries are making their home yours, with picnic tables, live music, sangria on tap, and plenty of green lawn to run around. Bring the dogs? Sure, you betcha. Kids? Why not? Wineries have gotten so comfy and welcoming that some parents are picking wineries over parks for family outings.

the nth time, “go bother someone else”. I have children, love kids...but they don’t come wine tasting or touring with me, ever. There are plenty of farms, playgrounds, museums and parks where alcohol is not served that are safe, welcoming environments for children.”

Delapne Cellars Patio practically every weekend,” Armentrout writes in response. “The majority of children I have encountered have been unsupervised or overindulged. I have literally NEVER seen a parent explain the bounty of nature or educate on the farming aspect. But I have seen the children run through the vines and pluck off grapes (do YOU know when the spray cycle is? I sure hope that child doesn’t get sick). And a direct quote from a dad sitting next to us, after his son had come back for

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Some have figured out how to walk the tightrope and keep both sides happy. Cindi Causey owns Potomac Point Winery in Stafford, which is known for its kid-friendly extras, like a “Lil’ Buds” playroom just off the tasting bar. Causey says, “We are in the middle of the equation. I try to balance between. I prefer to have a place like the kids’ room to keep them quietly occupied when young families bring the kids along. This allows all adults to enjoy the tastings at the bar and not be annoyed by someone

else’s children running around. We have some children menu options as well. Families can come celebrate here and we can accommodate.” In the end, it might be parents themselves who decide that wineries aren’t the place for kids. Melanie Simpson of Fredericksburg, co-owner of the new Virginia Wine Pass with her husband Brian, has twin 3-year olds, and says their winery outings are preferably adults-only trips. Telling the tale of parents everywhere, Simpson says, “We’ve found it’s easier to unwind when we’re not gritting our teeth and muttering ‘No! Don’t touch! Don’t poke your brother!’” Nancy Bauer and Rick Collier encourage everyone to eat, sleep, drink Virginia wine through their membership site VAWineInMyPocket.com and their VA wine country travel app in iTunes and Google Play. Rick’s photos are at RickCollierCreative.com. NOTE: If you like your wineries kid-free, here are two adults-only wineries in Northern Virginia, and five more that have designated adults-only space. Adults-only (no one under 21): Chateau O’Brien in Markham; Delaplane Cellars in Delaplane Adults-only spaces on the winery grounds: Cana Vineyards, Chrysalis Vineyards, and Greenhill Winery in Middleburg; Hunters Run Wine Barn in Hamilton; Winery at Bull Run in Centreville

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Justice Cucci 571-259-4248 540-324-6265 jlhomeimprovement14@gmail.com www.cops-pi.com

Gabby Byrnes Womens Kickboxers from Mt. Kim Culpeper Tribal Quest Team

How do we find out what we’re made of? One way is to stay at home on the couch and naval gaze. Another way is to run the Tribal Quest, a local obstacle course race that features the slogan “Find Your Self.” According to Tribal Quest cofounder Konrad Heller, we are all born with an innate desire to play, to socialize, and to find out who we are and what we are capable of – in essence, to find ourselves. To fulfill this desire Heller, along with local athletes Adam Edison and John Garmin, created Tribal Quest, a sixmile trail run featuring twenty-five obstacles. Since its inception three years ago, the event has been gaining momentum and a reputation for its festive quality. “We want this event to be a competitive, yet fun-filled family and team-oriented event where participants will face challenges that they have to overcome. Then follow it up with a fun atmosphere with live music, food, ice cream, beer for the adults,” Heller says. To add to that atmosphere is a special

“Kids Quest,” a small obstacle course set up for children and a drum tent provided by local drum master Ken Crampton. The race’s co-founders also feel like it’s important to give back to the community that has supported them over the last three years. All proceeds from the Kids Quest will be donated to the local rescue squad, partial proceeds from Tribal Quest will go toward Friends of the Rappahannock, and there’s a fundraising link to Operation Enduring Warrior from the Tribal Quest website. As part of Operation Enduring Warrior, that organization will be parachuting in a wounded veteran to participate in the obstacle course as part of their team. In regards to the race itself, participants can expect some of the typical hurdles and barriers featured at other races, but there will also be some that are designed to challenge participants nonphysically. The last two years have found racers pitching corn hole and sliding down waterslides. “We don’t want to cater to only the physically fit but to anybody who wants to make it about getting through the course, whether that means walking the whole thing or going around obstacles. There will be some new obstacles this year, but I don’t want to give those away yet.” The race will be held at Celebrate Virginia on July 12 and will feature solo competitive, team competitive, and nonRegistration is competitive waves. through the race website thetribalquest.com. Dewey Reynolds is an English teacher at Brooke Point High School with an adventurous spirit & the ability to inspire others to reach their full potential.

Jeremiah Lazenby 8

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

VA. WINERIES

Find Your Self

Is Adults-Only the New Trend in Virginia Wineries?

at fredericksburg’s tribal quest By dewey reynolds

If you want to start a flamer on Facebook, ask about kids and wineries.

“Do not even get me started on this topic!” says another. “Outside is one thing, but children should not be inside of wineries at all. It’s just like a bar.”

Private Security Investigations Services Employment Verification Background Checks Certified Process Servers

OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

J & L Home Improvement

Justice Cucci 571-259-4248 540-324-6265 jlhomeimprovement14@gmail.com www.cops-pi.com

Gabby Byrnes Womens Kickboxers from Mt. Kim Culpeper Tribal Quest Team

Jeremiah Lazenby 8

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

My Own Path

Stafford 350 Stafford County’s Gold

July 2014

more talent from the bethem kitchen

By c. ruth cassell

By david s. kerr It’s a strange stock to own. Its shares are traded on the Pacific Exchange and it’s called the Sixteen-to-One Gold Mine. It’s located in the desert just outside Sacramento, Calif. My only reason for buying the stock was to indulge my life-long fascination with gold mining. Which is good, since the 16-1 mine is not a lucky one and I have yet to make a dime off of it. For the most part, while there is still gold mining in California and Alaska, as well as a host of other scattered mines around the United States, 21st century supplies of gold come from places like South America, Africa and Russia. But, that wasn’t always the case. Our region, Stafford County in particular, was once the base of extensive gold mining operations. The first mention of gold in Virginia was made by Thomas Jefferson in his “Notes on Virginia” citing that a 17 penny weight piece of gold was found in the Rappahannock River. Even Capt. John Smith, in his extensive travels on the Potomac River, up the Northern Neck, and around the Chesapeake Bay, spent a lot of his time searching for gold. The Stafford County Historical Society thinks they may have found one of his early digs, but none of his prospecting appears to have yielded much gold. Alas, when it came to gold the early English settlers had some high hopes. They were convinced, based primarily on the Spanish experience in South America, that gold must also be abundant in North America. For the most part they were disappointed. Still, there was enough gold, some in the rivers, and some found by more traditional mining, to prompt the formation of the first incorporated gold mine in Virginia in 1804. Gold in our part of Virginia follows what the Virginia Department of Mineral Resources calls the “gold pyrite belt.” It runs from southwestern Stafford down I-95 and then

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turns

west towards Charlottesville. During the 19th century Stafford County had at least 10 fully functional gold mines. However, that by no means was the limit of Stafford’s gold mining operations. Some of these early mining efforts, never to be captured on any list, were mostly part-time affairs. This was particularly true in southwest Stafford. The prospectors included farmers, blacksmiths, and merchants. They occasionally found some gold-bearing ore and made a little money off of it. And remnant of their digs, and the endless numbers of holes they dug, are still out there. Virginia gold was popular right up until the 1840s, but when purer California gold, far less expensive to refine, started flooding into the market, the Commonwealth’s gold mining industry dried up. But, still, some intrepid souls have kept trying. The lure of finding a fortune along a neighborhood stream with a simple gold panning kit is hard to resist. I’ve tried it myself. Though, quickly enough, my back reminds me, that my chances probably aren’t all that good and more importantly that I had better stand up while I still can. David Kerr’s knowledge of local history is a welcome addition to Front Porch.

Front porch fredericksburg

Pumping bike pedals, panting breath. Lean far over the handlebars with chest close to knees darkened by sun or dirt. Pavement whirs under the tires and the break between asphalt and sky appears as the hill crests. Hands off handlebars, face to the sky, stomach in throat. Whee! The “huge” hill behind my parents’ house doesn’t look as awe inspiring now as it did then. It’s really just a short sloping drop. As a kid, riding down that hill on the blue Schwinn bike with banana seat was all the freedom a kid could want. One day early this summer, I took my nearly seven-year-old son Nasir to the hill. He peddled tentatively from my parent’s driveway to the top, where the descent begins. He immediately hopped off his bike. “I think I’ll walk,” he said. I rode down, reliving the glory days. Circling back to help him push his new 20” lime green dirt bike back up to the house, I wondered why he didn’t want to conquer the hill. “You don’t want to go? I’ll wait at the bottom for you. Just ride your brakes if you need to.” “No, I’m good.” He loves his bike. For us, a good summer day is defined by whether he gets to ride. I usually follow his lead about where we go or how far. He has his own limits, and will not be pushed outside of them even if I try to coax and encourage him. I began thinking about child development in regard to personal or professional development. In the parent/child relationship, who is the leader and who is the follower? Sometimes the child begins to develop maturity and independence and the parent must adapt to the new status of their relationship. Other times the parent encourages the child to take more responsibility and the child must learn to excel without the parents’ constant assistance. Others in my son’s life encourage him to rely on me less and do more for himself. I struggle to let go and adjust to the idea he doesn’t need me. Oftentimes I lead by example and show him how to complete a task before turning it over to him. Other times, I follow what he needs and if that is an extra long cuddle book time on Saturday morning, then I realize these days won’t last forever. If I am constantly rescuing him from his emotions or responsibilities, or constantly pressing him to do more than he is capable or comfortable to do, it is me, as the parent, who is acting and reacting. I am not giving him the autonomy to succeed or fail on his own merits.

I am not being the type of leader I want to see in my professional world. A successful leader is one who allows a co-worker to succeed and thrive in an environment utilizing the co-worker’s best assets and providing a structure of support. If the parent is always pushing or pulling, then what could otherwise be a natural progression will not be allowed to develop. As in other types of relationship development, there may be uncomfortable times when I want him to get the thrill of the hill and he wants to get off and walk, but the payoff of a child who learns to lead when necessary and follow when necessary will be of more long-term benefit.

Ruth Cassell and her son Nasir live in Roanoke, VA, where biking and the outdoors are a way of life. She sporadically updates a blog at www.attentionanonymous.wordpress.com and would love to hear from you about the topics that keep you motivated and moving. Email ruth3of5@gmail.com.

By tom byrnes Fredericksburg’s “restaurant row,” actually more of an “L” from Ristorante Renato on William St. to Foodé, down and around the corner on Caroline St., is a hotbed of culinary talent. In this four block span, we have an eclectic mix of enticing dining options. At the midpoint are two offerings owned by Blake and Aby Bethem, across Bistro the street from one another. Bethem represents one of the longer running kitchens downtown, where Chef Blake Bethem (center) has run the kitchen since before he and Aby purchased the restaurant over a decade ago. Many up and coming chefs have thus learned the trade or honed their skills in his kitchen, including now fellow chefs at other hot spots on restaurant row. With the recent opening of the Bethem’s other eatery, Vivify Burger and Lounge, two young men who, by their own accounts, “wandered into Bistro for a job,” are now among the elite talent making downtown Fredericksburg a restaurant destination. Joseph Nelson (left) got a job busing tables at Bistro. Chef noticed

something in him and soon offered him a kitchen job. Joe says he didn’t even know how to cut an onion, but he ended up training under Chef for two years and developed a real passion for food and cooking. Joe applied to Chef’s alma mater, Johnson and Wales Culinary School (where neighbor Chef Raymond Renault also attended). He didn’t tell him until he needed a letter of recommendation, but Chef wrote it, Joe went and he excelled. He earned his Culinary Arts Degree after an internship at a Michelin starred restaurant in Oslo, Norway and worked there under Chef Renaa at Renaa Matbaren before returning to Fredericksburg to be closer to family. Joe is now the Sous Chef at Vivify, where gourmet fast burgers and spiked milkshakes with fresh, local ingredients are enjoyed on Fredericksburg’s only rooftop lounge. Mark Across the street, Manjarrez (right) went from being a dishwasher overwhelmed by the non-stop volume of dirty plates every night to apprenticing under Chef and becoming

Bistro's Sous Chef, where he now runs the kitchen whenever Chef is at Vivify or home. Mark says once he mastered “the dish pit,” he started busing tables. His interest in the restaurant business and food led to opportunities to perform prep work for Chef in the kitchen. Before long, he was on the line cooking next to Chef. Mark says Chef introduced him to his career path, “He has shown me the greatest parts of being a proud, honest and motivated chef; he taught me the

values and respect I now hold for the restaurant industry.” This respect came from a lot of hard work and long hours put in by both Mark and Joe, who both say Chef works even harder. “He teaches by leading and motivating,” says Joe, “and sometimes that motivation is fueled from Chef’s Marine background.” Mark agrees, “there is no room for sheep in a wolfs kitchen.” Tom Byrnes is a Fredericksburg resident and unabashed Bethemite.

Jewel Box Since 1940 Your Hometown Jeweler On-Premise Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries Gold Buying Engraving 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-5 front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

My Own Path

Stafford 350 Stafford County’s Gold

July 2014

more talent from the bethem kitchen

By c. ruth cassell

follow the leader

Yes Chef

turns

Front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Cooking With Kyle Simple, easy, delicious by james kyle snyder

Mitzi and I have been eating what we thought was a healthy diet. We try to eat less sugar and more vegetables but are those efforts enough? We pulled our heads out of the sand and started doing a small amount of research. The first disease causing condition to consider is inflammation. According to the Cancer Research UK website, not all inflammation is bad. Inflammation is a part our body’s natural defense system. It is chronic inflammation that creates the necessary environment for diseases to flourish. This is a compiled list of diseases that chronic inflammation is directly linked to: Alzheimer’s, ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis), asthma, atherosclerosis, bursitis, CANCER, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, colitis, dermatitis, diabetes, diverticulitis, fibromyalgia, gastritis, gingivitis, hepatitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), laryngitis, systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), nephritis, obesity, otitis, Parkinson’s disease, polymyalgia rheumatic, tendonitis, and ulcerative colitis. I am not a doctor. For us, this information was eye-opening. Please, do your own research and talk to your doctor. What causes the chronic inflammation? We do through our diet.The Stover Chiropractic website states,“…Every bite we take moves us closer to inflammation or away … The fewer inflammatory foods we eat, the less inflammation we will have.” Nightshades vegetables, Potatoes, tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, eggplant, tomatillos, tamarios, pepinos, pimentos, paprika, cayenne pepper, and more cause

July 2014

inflammation according to the world’s healthiest foods webpage. The number one inflamer in our diet, however, is gluten. So what can we eat? The Mayo Clinic Health Letter webpage suggests, “Eating generous amounts of fruits and vegetables, consuming healthy fats, such as olive oil and canola oil, eating small portions of nuts, … drinking red wine in moderation, eating fish on a regular basis, (and) consuming very little red meat (may help reduce chronic inflammation).”Cy Lee, PhD is quoted on Health.com webpage stating, “black foods have more antioxidants than light-colored foods because of their high pigment content.” Antioxidants reduce the body’s inflammatory response. Now we are getting somewhere. Let’s make a desert with two super foods that actually helps us! Gluten free blackberry rhubarb hand pies … yummmm. First the crust. Just like any pie crust, everything must be cold. Cut ½ C of butter or shortening into chunks and place in the freezer for 30 minutes. Combine 1 ¼ C all purpose gluten free flour and 1 tsp kosher salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse to combine. Add the butter and pulse 6-8 times until the mixture resembles coarse meal with some pea size chunks of butter. Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, while pulsing, until the mixture barely starts to hold together. If you pinch some of the crumbly dough together and it holds, then you have enough water. Refrigerate. In a pot, on low, combine 2 C of blackberries, 1 C of chopped rhubarb, 2 tsp brown rice flour, 2 tsp sweet rice flour, ½ tsp tapioca flour (starch) [Wegmans has all the ingredients], 1 TBS honey, and 1 tsp fresh lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is soft. Add ½ cup of mashed black berries for the last 3 mins for texture. Roll a piece of dough to ¼ inch thick. I cut them into rectangles, but making 6 inch circles and folding in half works as well. Seal the edges with water and press the top and bottom together with a fork. Cook at 425 on an unlined cookie sheet for 10-15 minutes or until browned. Look at these like medicine. Make sure you take every dose. Simple, health, and delicious! Be well. Kyle Snyder brings us healthy, delicious recipes each month in this space.

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Vino RosÈ is not a blush By scott richards The Virginia wine industry needs to be congratulated on its advancement in many areas. However, probably the most pronounced difference between now and twenty five years ago is the development of the Rosé wines. When I was first exploring Virginia wines, I was at a function of a local chamber of commerce where a “rosé” was being served from a local winery. My first taste of the wine made me think I would never touch another wine from this state. What was touted to be a rosé, was in fact more of a blush, and not a very good one. Thankfully, I have been introduced to the real deal and am quite a fan. The process of making a true rosé involves more than just having a pink wine. In the Côte de Rhone region of France, where the true rosé was first developed, one of the major grapes used is the Grenache. The body of the wine is far from what blush drinkers experience. To the Grenache is often added Syrah for its elegance and topped off with something like Mouvedre that will allow the wine to have a depth that can be surprising to the novice rosé drinker. I will never forget my first bottle of this wine. All I had to eat with it was a piece of hickory smoked pork loin. Looking at the wine, with its light color and knowing what kind of taste the pork had, I was sure the taste of the rosé would be lost. Much to my surprise, the wine not only held up to the taste of the pork, it matched it perfectly! Since that time, I have had the pleasure of tasting many differing rosés, and have yet to be disappointed. Of course, the Italians are not to be outdone. I raise Sangiovese in my vineyard and I am salivating at the prospect this spring of making a Rosatto (an Italian rosé). Again, the grape used in this wine will be one of character and strength as is that used in the French version, but with a decided different taste due not only to the grape, but to the development of the wine as well. Because the color of the wine is due almost wholly to the contact with the skins during fermentation, a rosé is taken off of the skins after several days, thus having a much lighter hue. One of the big differences I have found between a rosé and a blush is that a rosé is much drier. The character of the rosé allows it to be

used as an excellent patio wine, or as a wine that can be used with many different types of food. The example of the hickory smoked pork loin is a good example. In my bar tending days, I used to cringe at mixing what one customer called a White Zin Spritzer, a mixture of white zinfandel (blush) and ginger ale. But, as I always say, drink what you like. Scott Richards owns a vineyard in Sparta, Virginia and does freelance writing for the Caroline Progress and Front Porch.

Season’s Bounty

greens are good for your heart

Back Porch Sale Saturday, July 19th ~ 9:00 to 5:30 See What We Found in the Stockroom!

By vanessa moncure

...and the rest of us, too! Twirl a seed packet display in any garden center or leaf through a seed catalogue and be amazed at the quantity and variety of greens which can be cultivated here in Virginia. The USDA divides the nation into plant hardiness zones - we are fortunate to be in Zone 7, generally temperate, moderate rainfall, ample spring/summer growing until the first fall killing frost. I have a raised bed garden just for my greens and I continue seeding/propagating throughout the season. As cold as this past winter was, kale and spinach remained hardy through spring - covered with straw, south-facing planting with a stone wall providing just enough solar warmth to keep the ground from freezing. That was a first for me, and I definitely plan to sow there again in late late summer. If you’re planning a garden or have one already, the Farmer’s Almanac is a wonderful resource, as are our county and state extension offices. Not a gardener? Then head down to your nearest Farmer’s Market for the best selection of seasonal produce. Greens, particularly of the species Brassia, contain calcium, iron, Vitamins A,C and K- brimming with fiber, potassium and folate, greens should be a staple of a nutritious diet. (Speak with your doctor before beginning a greensheavy diet if you are on anti-couagulation therapy. Vitamin K can work against your medication.) For those following a lowcarbohydrate diet, greens are amazing. Use baby collard leaves as a wrap instead of corn- or flour tortillas. When making lasagne, layer with blanched spinach or thinly sliced zucchini, fennel or eggplant. And who hasn’t heard of stuffed cabbage leaves, or stuffed peppers? Hey, maybe vegetarians are really on to something! BEET GREEN SALAD I sow beet seeds generously, just so I can thin the rows and make a delicious salad with the tender greens. When the leaves begin to darken and harden, it’s

time to let the plants put their energy into the beet. 6 cups well-washed beet greens - perk up in ice water then dry thoroughly 2 c. sliced cooked beets, or whole baby beets 4 oz. goat cheese, rolled in a minced mixture of fresh herbs (your choice) Salted pepitas Drizzle the salad with a dressing made from white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a spoonful of honey, S&P, and the rest of your minced herbs ARUGULA AND CALAMARI Clean 8 oz. fresh calamari, tubes and whole squid. Cut the tubes into rings. Saute in 2 T. olive oil along with one minced garlic clove, being careful not to overcook. Stir in 2 c. cannellini beans and 6 cups well-washed arugula leaves cover and steam over medium heat until greens have wilted. Remove from heat, add 2 T. olive oil, juice of ½ to 1 lemon, S&P. Serve with garlic toasted crostini. Have your ingredients ready to go, as this is a quick dish to prepare. MIXED GREENS SAUTE Use a mixture of thoroughly washed collard greens (cut out the tough rib in the center), turnip, spinach, radicchio, kale and chard, about 8 cups. (Or just collards. Or spinach and radicchio. Your choice.) Saute in olive oil over medium heat one onion sliced in thin rounds. When the onion becomes transparent, stir in a chiffonade of greens (roll them together like a cigar, then slice in ½” strips) and cook until greens begin to wilt. S&P to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with ½ diced sweet red pepper. Season to taste with balsamic vinegar and Tabasco if desired. I left out cabbage recipes because I am really disheartened looking at my cabbage patch. All of the leaves look like swiss cheese, and I think they’ve just given up trying to head. With so many varieties of cabbage - bok choi, Chinese savoy, Napa - and their close kin, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli - I’ll be trying again in the late late summer. I’ve been using a castile soap-based homemade organic spray, but I think the cabbage worms are enjoying it as a light garnish on their leaf. Hmm….maybe I’ll put in cress, chard, rapini and mustard greens in their place - aphids run a mile from the spray, right onto my tomato plant leaves. Good thing I made a large batch of spray!

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA 540-374-0443

Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com

9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday 11am - 6pm Sunday Lee Russell Proprietor

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

Serving Great Food Since 1981

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street

(540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family

Vanessa Moncure treats us to wonderful recipes each month in this space.

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Cooking With Kyle Simple, easy, delicious by james kyle snyder

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Season’s Bounty

greens are good for your heart

Back Porch Sale Saturday, July 19th ~ 9:00 to 5:30 See What We Found in the Stockroom!

By vanessa moncure

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA 540-374-0443

Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com

9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday 11am - 6pm Sunday Lee Russell Proprietor

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

Serving Great Food Since 1981

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street

(540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family

Vanessa Moncure treats us to wonderful recipes each month in this space.

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

J. Brian’s

Let’s Do

Brunch BUY ONE FULL PRICE

Tapping into the community By ryan davis

WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS

Brunch Buffet at

$19.95 & GET ONE 50% OFF 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Not Valid on Holiday’s Present this coupon for Discount “FREE” Valet parking for Brunch Guests

It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!

The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St.

FXBG SANDWICH INVITATIONAL

Fredericksburg, VA

620 CarolineStreet 540.373.8300 CourtyardFredericksburg.com

Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

Phone: 540-899-0969 E-mail: soupntaco@yahoo.com

Jack Hyland leaves a memorable first impression. Just get him to tell a story… about his travels across the United States, his beloved New York Yankees or even the city he lives in. At every plot twist and turn his voice rises excitedly only to be outdone by furious hand gestures like an orchestra conductor. He’s the kind of engaging guy you’d love to grab a beer with—and you can—because he is the owner of J. Brian’s Tap Room Restaurant and Bar located in downtown Fredericksburg. Hyland’s history with a beer tap began at his uncle’s bar in the early 1980s. This environment provided Hyland with an appreciation for beer and in his words “where you could work hard and play hard.” Much of his early career was transitory as he worked in places such as New Jersey, Key West, Florida and Charleston, South Carolina before finally landing in Fredericksburg, Virginia. J. Brian’s had modest beginnings when it first opened. In the early days they had just 12 taps, which included staple brews such as Sam Adams Boston Lager, Bass Pale Ale and Guinness. As the years progressed and his business grew, so did the beer market. Long-time customers would become friends and Hyland desired to cater to the interests of his loyal clientele, “People would ask for a certain beer and if we could get it, we would,” he said. J. Brian’s now boasts 24 taps including IPA varietals along with several locally brewed Virginia beers. Hyland’s focus on the community has kept his business thriving for two decades. This longevity culminated in their

July 2014

20-year anniversary celebration on Saturday, June 14, 2014. According to Hyland, without the customers this sustained success would never have happened. It’s being attuned to his customers and what’s important in their lives, that propels Hyland to participate in events and fundraisers for the community. They’ve partnered with Team Red, White & Blue each year through an annual 15K run that provides fundraising for military veterans. Investing in the community has not just allowed him to grow a business or raise money for important causes, but it has also provided personal fulfillment for he and his family. “When we started being invited into the lives of our customers, especially through events such as weddings and funerals, I knew we were doing something good,” Hyland said. It’s this symbiotic relationship that has characterized Hyland’s time in Fredericksburg and as long as the doors are open at J. Brian’s, it will continue into the future…one frothy pint glass at a time. J. Brian’s Tap Room is located at 200 Hanover Street in downtown Fredericksburg. For more information on hours of service and restaurant & bar offerings visit: www.jbrianstaproom.com.

The Sunken Well Tavern

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

What will be the next sandwich craze? We are about to find out as Fredericksburg holds its first " FXBG "Sandwich Invitational" on July 31st in Market Square from 6pm to 8pm. Ten local Chefs will compete to create a signature sandwich for tasting by the crowd and a panel of judges. Their challenge to make imaginative creations that redefine the word sandwich. A $750.00 prize will be given to the judge's favorite "Sandwich King" and a "People's Choice" prize of $500.00 will also be awarded. The event, organized by Fredericksburg Department of Economic Development and Tourism, is designed to showcase the amazing bounty of creative chefs and restaurants in Fredericksburg. "Dining is such an integral part of the Fredericksburg experience. It is very

important that we communicate this message to both the current residents of Fredericksburg and the many visitors that share our city.", says Julie Perry, Manager, Fredericksburg Visitor Center. Sandwich Invitational is a popular event in Portland, Oregon and was featured in BonAppetit, September 2013. The event kicks off the popular Summer Restaurant Week lasting from Aug. 1 to Aug. 10, which features a "2 for 20" dinner menu (two courses for $20)

For more information contact: Julie Perry at japerry@fredericksburgva.gov

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

Italian/American Food Ryan Davis currently resides in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington a nd has future aspirations of becoming a published author.

Front porch fredericksburg

Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

J. Brian’s

Let’s Do

Brunch BUY ONE FULL PRICE

Tapping into the community By ryan davis

WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS

Brunch Buffet at

$19.95 & GET ONE 50% OFF 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Not Valid on Holiday’s Present this coupon for Discount “FREE” Valet parking for Brunch Guests

It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!

The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St.

FXBG SANDWICH INVITATIONAL

Fredericksburg, VA

620 CarolineStreet 540.373.8300 CourtyardFredericksburg.com

Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

Phone: 540-899-0969 E-mail: soupntaco@yahoo.com

July 2014

The Sunken Well Tavern

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

For more information contact: Julie Perry at japerry@fredericksburgva.gov

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

Italian/American Food Ryan Davis currently resides in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington a nd has future aspirations of becoming a published author.

Front porch fredericksburg

Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

july 2014… Savor Your Freedoms Tuesday July 1 Whiskey Django Foxtrot, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm Join us for live music and drink specials!

Wednesday July 2

Farmers Market at Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center. Fresh and local. I hope you will support our local farmers by sharing this opportunity for our community to come out and find healthier food options. Fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, coffee, home goods, bratwurst, sauerkraut, plants and so much more. Each week something new comes in season. Every Wednesday from 2 – 6 pm in the Spotsy parking lot, open to the community

Friday July 4

Sounds of Summer concert series 7-9pm. The Fredericksburg Community Concert Band and Scott Ramminger & The Crawstickers . All concerts are free and open to the public in Market Square at 907 Princess Anne Street. In case of inclement weather, every effort will be made to move the concert indoors. presented by Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center. For more information on the concert series, call 540-371-3037, ext. 135 or famcc.org Studio A & Gallery Upstairs Reception 6-9pm featuring Susan Peyron & Jack Graves Unique show featuring two very different artists!

Saturday July 5:

Neighborhood Tours: Charles and Hanover, 11:30 am – 12:45 pm The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center, along with Hallowed Ground Tours, presents a special walking tour Participants on this walking tour, will explore the homes and history of one of the City’s oldest neighborhoods, Charles and Hanover Streets. Tour guides will discuss the architecture of the neighborhoods that stretch over four centuries and will unravel the histories of people who helped shape the Fredericksburg community. The tour departs from beside the St. James House at 1300 Charles Street and lasts approximately 75 minutes. entry fee into the Museum. The tour is FREE for Museum members.

CALENDAR of events

also be offered. details: www.libertytownarts.com. Show runs July 11 through August 31

Monday July 7

PONSHOP paintings by local artist Kathleen Walsh. Walsh’s works reveal a dialogue between an artist and her surroundings. Whether Walsh paints plein air or in-studio, her works emphasize an immediacy or nowness, which describes her way for life. Opening Reception 6-9pm

Introductory Art Camp: Wearable Art, 10am-2pm, FAMCC campers aged 11-12 will work with local artists to explore a different art form each day. This camp will provide a broad overview of the theme and introductory art experiences.cost includes all supplies and snacks. $

New work and letterpress, fiber, and painting demos by owner/artists Susan Carter Morgan, Lynette R. Reed, and Elizabeth W. Seaver. Water Street Studio, 915 A Sophia Street. waterstreetstudio.org All Day

Saturday July 12

Tuesday July 8

The Lonely Hands, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music & drink specials.

Wednesday July 9

Farmers Market at Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center. Fresh and local. support our local farmers Fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, coffee, home goods, bratwurst, sauerkraut, plants and so much more. Each week something new comes in season. Every Wednesday from 2 – 6 pm in the Spotsy parking lot, open to the community

Thursday July 10

Lecture—The Academy Awards and the Nominations: The Bush/Clinton Years—19901994. Film clips and commentary. Central Rappahannock Public Library, 1201 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg at 6:30 p.m.

“FIRST” Friday July 11

Sounds of Summer concert series 7-9pm. Andy Vaughn and the Driveline All concerts are free and open to the public in Market Square at 907 Princess Anne Street. In case of inclement weather, every effort will be made to move the concert indoors. presented by Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center. For more information on the concert series, call 540-371-3037, ext. 135 or famcc.org Opening Reception for LibertyTown’s Summer Exhibition: Plein Air Paintings & Potter Invitational. 5-9pm Six Virginia potters will be featured in the Main Gallery. JULY: Bill Schran, Justin Rice, Chatham Monk. Pottery Workshops will

The Tribal Quest race will be held at Celebrate Virginia and will feature solo competitive, team competitive, and non- competitive waves. Registration is through the race website thetribalquest.com. Willowmere Weekends presents Grow your own Shitake Mushrooms. 9am-12pm a FUN-gus Camp! A hands-on half day retreat where you will plant and set up your own shitake spore filled logs and take them home to rot and grow. Led by an experienced mushroom grower and farmer’s market farmer! All ages. Contact Jen Furlong 540-752-2365 or willowmereweekends@gmail.com Can a penny float in salt water? Will a cork sink in honey? 1-3 PM for Second Saturdays at the Museum (FAMCC) to find out. This month, children and their care givers can learn about the Rappahannock River and the boats and ships that have floated along its banks. During this program children can discover what will sink or float on water and other liquids, make rivers in a bottle, and sailboats. Recommended age for this program is 8 years old and below. This event is FREE. Neighborhood Tours: 11:30 am – 12:45 pm The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center, along with Hallowed Ground Tours, presents a special walking tour this walking tour, explores the homes and history of one of the City’s oldest neighborhoods, . The tour departs from beside the St. James House at 1300 Charles Street and lasts approximately 75 minutes.

Monday July 14

Intermediate Art Camp: Farm to Fashion. Ages 1315 camp will look at the process of raising and processing natural fiber materials. These campers will learn about raising fiber animals, spinning and weaving fibers, and working with local artists, will create wearable art from natural fibers.$$

Family Fine Art Camp, Willowmere Weekends, July 14-July 18 . Focus on book making from creating paper to binding and making lithograph prints and paintings to fill it. Drop off your children or stay and be a camper, too! All ages and levels of experience. Taught by a professional artist & print maker. Nutritious organic lunch provided.Contact Jen Furlong 540-752-2365 or willowmereweekends@gmail.com

Tuesday July 15

M-Law and the Modern Prophets of Jazz, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 16

Thursday July 17

Benefit Art Show in memory of Grant Taylor, Sunken Well Tavern, 7pm, featuring local artist & craftsmen.Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Friday July 18

Family Fine Art Camp, Willowmere Weekends, 9am Focus on book making from creating paper to binding and making lithograph prints and paintings to fill it. Drop off your children or stay and be a camper, too! All ages and levels of experience. Taught by a professional artist & print maker. Nutritious organic lunch provided.Contact Jen Furlong 540-752-2365 or willowmereweekends@gmail.com Joe Nichols @Celebrate Virginia, 6:30pm, Pancho Villa Pavilion. $

Tuesday July 22

Sounds of Summer concert series 7-9pm Joe Vex Band All concerts are free in Market Square at 907 Princess Anne Street. presented by Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center. info540-371-3037, ext. 135 or famcc.org

Saturday July 19,

VIRGINIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Explore American history with arts and crafts and discover connections to the story of Virginia. Stories at the Museum features a group reading of a children’s history book and a make-it-and-take-it craft. 11 a.m.—noon. It is free and open to all ages. Richmond. contact Caroline Legros 804.342.9652 clegros@vahistorical.org Neighborhood Tours: 11:30 am – 12:45 pm The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center, along with Hallowed Ground Tours, presents a special walking tour Explore the homes and history of one of the City’s oldest neighborhoods, Tour guides will discuss the architecture of the neighborhoods that stretch over four centuries and will unravel the histories of people who helped shape the Fredericksburg community. The tour departs from beside the St. James House at 1300 Charles Street and lasts approximately 75 minutes. entry fee into the Museum. The tour is FREE for Museum members. The Music & Spirits concert series will bring Dossett’s Appalachian-inspired music to our Piedmont Fall Line town to perform at A. Smith Bowman Distillery. Dossett will be accompanied by Jason Sypher (upright bass) and Scott Manring (guitar and banjo). All three artists plan to teach master classes prior to the performance. Workshop details will be posted at musicandspirts.com. Thompson Square @Celebrate Virginia, 6:30 pm, Pancho Villa Pavilion Roller Derby: Five 40 Roller Girls vs Camel, 6pm, Enjoy watching Fredericksburg’s Five 40 Roller Girls skate it out against Camel City Thrashers. This is a family friendly fast action sporting event full of hard hits and fast skates. Golden Skate World, 122200 Five Mile Road. $

Laurie Rose Griffith and Peter Mealy, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 23

Thursday July 24

Join the Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center’s (FAMCC) Director of Collections & Exhibitions, Christopher Uebelhor, from 6 – 8 pm for Culture and Cocktails: The FAMCC is always adding new objects and artifacts to its collection, and Uebelhor will display some of the Museum’s newest items at the event. Light fare and open bar are included as part of the evening. Culture & Cocktail: This event is for Museum members only. Advanced registration is required. For more information, or to register for the event, please contact Anne Marie Paquette at apaquette@famcc.org or at 540-371-3037 x400.

Friday July 25

Sounds of Summer concert series 7-9pm The Believers All concerts are free and open to the public in Market Square at 907 Princess Anne Street. In case of inclement weather, every effort will be made to move the concert indoors. presented by Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center. For more information on the concert series, call 540-371-3037, ext. 135 or famcc.org

Saturday, July 26.

Iris Sale. 8 am-3 pm. Fredericksburg Area Iris Society annual scholarship, fundraiser and membership drive. At Roxbury Mills, 601 Lafayette Blvd Iris grown locally by FAIS members will be sold at bargain prices. Bearded and nonbearded iris. Nothing over $6. Come early for best selection. All new members eligible for grand prize drawing of iris package. . Call 540-786-1073 or 540-376-4495 for more information.

Neighborhood Tours: 11:30 am – 12:45 pm The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center, along with Hallowed Ground Tours, presents a special walking tour Participants on this walking tour, will explore the homes and history of one of the City’s oldest neighborhoods, Tour guides will discuss the architecture of the neighborhoods that stretch over four centuries and will unravel the histories of people who helped shape the Fredericksburg community. The tour departs from beside the St. James House at 1300 Charles Street and lasts approximately 75 minutes. entry fee into the Museum. The tour is FREE for Museum members. Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc.’s Historic Pub Tour Hear stories about bar/pub/restaurant establishments throughout the evening. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Contact HFFI at 540-371-4504 to purchase. Don’t delay-due to limited space on the tour this event will likely sell out! (Please note: the tour will be 45 hours long because we will stop at some locations for a beverage. Attendees must be 21 and older and should be able to easily walk 1-1½ miles.)

Tuesday July 29

The Vreelands at Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 30

If you are reading this 204th issue of FP, thank an advertiser as we celebrate the completion of our 17th year! If you are an advertiser, list your event. Deadline for July's Start of Year 18 issue is July 20. To submit events, follow this link: http://frontporchfredericksburg.com/howto-ssubmit-o online/

Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service Companionship Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Laundry

Light Housekeeping Shopping/Errands Personal Care Flexible Hours

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment

540.899.1422 Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated

July 2014

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2233 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service”

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July 2014

july 2014… Savor Your Freedoms Tuesday July 1 Whiskey Django Foxtrot, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm Join us for live music and drink specials!

Wednesday July 2

Friday July 4

Saturday July 5:

CALENDAR of events

also be offered. details: www.libertytownarts.com. Show runs July 11 through August 31

Monday July 7

Saturday July 12

Tuesday July 8

The Lonely Hands, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music & drink specials.

Wednesday July 9

Thursday July 10

Lecture—The Academy Awards and the Nominations: The Bush/Clinton Years—19901994. Film clips and commentary. Central Rappahannock Public Library, 1201 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg at 6:30 p.m.

“FIRST” Friday July 11

Monday July 14

Tuesday July 15

M-Law and the Modern Prophets of Jazz, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 16

Thursday July 17

Benefit Art Show in memory of Grant Taylor, Sunken Well Tavern, 7pm, featuring local artist & craftsmen.Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Friday July 18

Tuesday July 22

Saturday July 19,

Laurie Rose Griffith and Peter Mealy, Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 23

Thursday July 24

Friday July 25

Saturday, July 26.

Tuesday July 29

The Vreelands at Bistro Bethem, 8-11pm. Join us for live music and drink specials.

Wednesday July 30

Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service Companionship Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Laundry

Light Housekeeping Shopping/Errands Personal Care Flexible Hours

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment

540.899.1422 Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

2233 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service”

Front Porch on

homeinstead.com front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

history’s stories

Monument to Mary Washington By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Mary Washington died at her home in 1789 and was buried a short distance away in a plot she had selected. The area she selected was a very secluded area much different than it is today with a ledge of rocks overlooking a vast wooded area, where she would walk and read, meditate and pray. The plot was part of the Kenmore estate owned by her son-in-law Fielding Lewis. The grave site was marked by a small marble slab for over forty years.

...In 1833 the Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge along with President Andrew Jackson who was Past Grand Master of Masons in the state of Tennessee laid the corner-stone to a monument that was funded from a wealthy New York merchant Silas Burrows. The construction was abruptly halted when Burrows went bankrupt and the monument remained in that state for over 50 years. There were several appeals to the Fredericksburg Town Council and to the United States Government that resulted in a two bills being submitted to the Forty-third Congress. Both of the bills failed to pass. It was not until 1889 exactly one hundred years after the death of Mary Washington that a group of women from Fredericksburg formed an association under the leadership of Mrs. James Smith. The goal of the association was to raise the funds necessary to complete the monument. The monument had been damaged during the Civil War and chipped from relic hunters taking pieces of the marble. The old partially completed monument had to be dismantled due to the poor condition and a new monument had to be designed, which was done by William Crawford of Buffalo, New York. Pieces from the damaged monument were placed in the foundation with the exception of the columns, which were donated to the Masonic Lodge. One hundred and twenty years ago, May 10, 1894 The Grand Lodge of Virginia assisted by Fredericksburg and Alexandria Masonic Lodges along with President Grover Cleveland, Vice-President Stevenson and government officials from different parts of the country dedicated the monument. It is recorded that there were thousands of people from all over the United States in attendance. A large banquet was held at the opera house on the corner of Caroline and William Streets with President Cleveland giving a speech and the Marine Corp band played during the entire celebration. The beautiful granite building next to the monument was erected by the association as a home for the custodian of the monument and grounds. In memory of Mary Greenup and Wilson H. Greenlaw. Tuffy continues to educate us with Fredericksburg history each moth in this space.

Central Rappahannock

HERITAGE CENTER Volunteers needed to process historical documents and aid researchers. Training provided. Phone 540-373-3704 or email crhc@verizon.net Open to the public for scholarly research

The Heritage Center 18

July 2014

Maury Commons

900 Barton St

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Fredericksburg

OUR HERITAGE SO A HISTORIAN WALKS INTO A BAR BY EMILY TAGGART SCHRICKER

Grow with the Flow beate jensen gives lANDSCAPING sOLUTIONS

By A.E.Bayne

HISTORIC FREDERICKSBURG FOUNDATION, INC. What makes a location-much less a drinking establishment-historic? Perhaps that level of notoriety lies in the eye of the beholder. For the most dedicated of historians, particularly those that focus on the founding fathers' history of Fredericksburg, Weedon's Tavern could top the list. This tavern (which was much more than just a "bar" in the eighteenth century) was owned by Revolutionary War General George Weedon and was where Thomas Jefferson penned the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. Weedon's clientele included many of Fredericksburg's famous residents, including General Hugh Mercer, Fielding Lewis' son, John, and even George Washington. Perhaps this location just might qualify as the most famous on the list.

For Gatsby-era fans, J. Brian's Taproom, previously known as the Exchange and Maury Hotels, may rank high on the list of most historic. When the Jefferson Davis Highway, now known as US Business Route 1, opened with much fanfare in 1927, the evening ended with two large dances, one at the Elks Home and the other at the Maury Hotel. With an estimated 25,000-40,000 people present in Fredericksburg for the highway's opening festivities, one can only imagine the excitement that surrounded these notable parties. Perhaps neat and polished is how you like your history served? Then a martini at the Courtyard Marriott's Indian Queen

Bar may be just what you had in mind. Although the building is new, the location's history dates back to the early days of Fredericksburg. Archaeological excavations done by Dovetail Cultural Resource Group in 2006, prior to the hotel's construction, uncovered the foundations of the Indian Queen Tavern. Operating from 1771 until 1832, the tavern was a wellrespected restaurant and social center in the city, frequented by many famous founding fathers (and mothers). Perhaps you've heard of their sea turtle dinner? Or if award-winning restoration and excellent historic preservation is your preference, then Thornton's Tavern will certainly stand out. The recent renovation of 523 Sophia Street done by Hilldrup Properties, Inc., revealed an astounding number of history tidbits while peeling off layers of siding, paint, and paneling. Dated as the oldest building in the city, it tells the story of the city’s 300-year evolution. Located at the city's original dock and ferry site, it survived the Civil War as well as the city's biggest floods. Still can't decide which establishment is the most historic? The only way to Historic know is to attend the Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc.'s Historic Pub Tour on July 26, 2014. Hear more stories about these and other bar/pub/restaurant establishments throughout the evening. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Contact HFFI at 540-371-4504 to purchase. Don't delay-due to limited space on the tour this event will likely sell out! (Please note: the tour will be 4-5 hours long because we will stop at some locations for a beverage. Attendees must be 21 and older and should be able to easily walk 1-1½ miles.) Living in a historic city is a wonderful thing-experiencing its history only makes it better. Come and enjoy the stories Fredericksburg has to offer! The Exchange Hotel, pictured courtesy of CRHC

photo by robert a. martin Landscape gardeners often lament the coming of July and August, a season of dormancy for many of the ornamental plant varieties that color the landscape in spring and autumn. Traditional fescue grasses grown on lawns across Virginia can be particularly hard on resources during the dry months, requiring mowing for maintenance, which pollutes the air, and massive quantities of water. Beate Jensen, Belmont’s Grounds Preservation Supervisor, offers some landscape solutions to help homeowners beat the heat and sweeten the deal for area wildlife. For those wishing to develop a yard that will eventually be low maintenance but high impact, Jensen suggests planting plots of drought resistant tall grass mixed with wildflowers. She says, “For the private homeowner, the grass’s application would be successful where there are drain fields or where there is a large lot with lots of grass that isn’t being used. You know, in the back forty where you really don’t want to deal with it. This combination of tall grasses and wildflowers would be a perfect fit. You just mow it once a year, you don’t have to fertilize, and you don’t have to water it once it’s established.” Jensen recommends a variety of tall grass called little bluestem, mixed with the proper ratio of wildflower seeds. She says little bluestem grows only three to four feet tall, which is manageable for homeowners living in area neighborhoods. It is fairly easy to initially establish the plots, but gardeners do have to pay specific attention to a few things during the first three years. Jensen elaborates, “If you don’t have a lot of grass growing already, you can take a tiller or a rake and scarify the soil, put down your seed mix, and then water. During the first and second seasons, you do have to weed out the big broad leafed weeds, because they will shade out the smaller seedlings and kill them. After the plot is established, you simply mow once a year

in the spring. You always have to keep an eye out for anything invasive, like Kudzu or vines, but maintenance is simple.” While there are still some neighborhood associations that may place restrictions on plant varieties, Jensen has seen a trend toward more understanding and approval of wild grass plots because there is awareness about the importance of providing sustainable environments for area wildlife. She does suggest sharing plans with neighbors if homeowners want to establish a larger plot of wild grass so there is an understanding about the vitality it will bring to neighborhood ecosystems. For homeowners with more than a couple of acres of land, Jensen suggests other varieties of tall grass that create a dramatic habitat for area critters, “Out here [at Belmont] in our big meadows, I have big bluestem, Indian grass, and switchgrass, and they get to be ten feet tall. I wouldn’t recommend them for a typical neighborhood, but for those who have an open space that they want to easily maintain they could work well. We have mown paths so visitors can walk through our tall grass meadows and observe the variety of wildlife, and they’re just gorgeous. Since we’ve put those in, we’ve seen foxes move in, hawks are living here, bluebirds stay all year round, and there are a lot of yellow finches. It’s just been a huge change to the whole system of wildlife around the property.” With either type of plot, Jensen recommends providing a visible border of about two lawnmower widths to establish the boundary between the different areas of landscaping. These wide borders signal the change from traditional to wild lawn. For visual inspiration, take a trip to see the established meadows around Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont in Falmouth, VA. They have been growing for fourteen years now and are lush with regional wildlife. A.E. Bayne is a local writer, teacher, and artist who enjoys a stroll through the tall grass on clear day. front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

history’s stories

Central Rappahannock

HERITAGE CENTER Volunteers needed to process historical documents and aid researchers. Training provided. Phone 540-373-3704 or email crhc@verizon.net Open to the public for scholarly research

The Heritage Center 18

July 2014

Maury Commons

900 Barton St

Front porch fredericksburg

Fredericksburg

OUR HERITAGE SO A HISTORIAN WALKS INTO A BAR BY EMILY TAGGART SCHRICKER

Grow with the Flow beate jensen gives lANDSCAPING sOLUTIONS

By A.E.Bayne

July 2014

The Caring Cat What is humane?

external parasites can cause multiple problems

by Thea Verdak The truth of the matter is cats do care, I mean about themselves and their kind. You can read soppy stories all you want. I like the kind that just gets to the core of caring. I had a call about some cats along Route 17, a tough traffic area. Two cats had been killed by cars along the road there. A woman rang to tell me that she just couldn’t stand it anymore. A third cat, who often came by her house, would walk to the remains of the cats on the road and sit by them. Days passed. She said it had to stop. She couldn’t stand the thought of the third cat being injured. I told her that it would be dangerous to walk near it as it may bolt into traffic and sometimes you have to let grief take its’ course. “Leave plenty of food and water around your house,” I told her, hoping to get the cat away from the road and possibly trying to get it spayed or neutered at a later date. The cat didn’t want any food, it seemed it wanted to grieve its’ family. To make matters worse, the surviving cat seemed to go to the site at the same time

Companions

AutoKnown Better poughkeepsie - part two By Rim Vining

every day, during the heaviest traffic. After two weeks, the cat sat by the woman’s porch. It stared at her for some time, then it walked in the opposite direction entirely, kept going, and she never saw it again. I wonder how often we interfere with the natural course of events, messing everything up. This cat needed to grieve and leave. It determined its’ own future in this circumstance. Sometimes there are moments when the one that got away, needed to. Heavy is the heart that grieves, and mysterious is the moment that brings relief.

External parasites (living on the outside of the body) are not just a nuisance for your pet and your family. These pests carry disease, stimulate allergies and contribute to skin and ear infections. Pets with external parasites tend to be itchy. Some external parasites can be seen with the naked eye (e.g., fleas, ticks). However, others require a microscope to find. Some common external parasites that infect dogs and cats include:

Thea Verdak was the founder and president of the Rappahannock Humane Society. She has written a short story “The Barn Teacher” which advocates changes in the current laws which allows continual chaining and tethering of animals. It is available on Amazon.com.

Ticks: Ticks represent an important cause of disease transmission.

Fleas: When a single flea is found, this represents a mere 1% of the entire problem: the other 99% includes their eggs and larvae that are developing in your carpets and bedding.

Cheyletiellia: A mite infection also known as walking dandruff. Lice: Appearance similar to dandruff. Lice on your pets are not contagious to people and vice versa.

Full Service Hospital featuring: Grooming Salon Canine Boarding in Our Indoor/Outdoor Runs Dog Training & Behavioral Consults with certified dog trainer Feline Boarding in Our Spacious Multi-room Condos

Ear Mites: These microscopic mites inhabit the surface of the ear canal and surrounding facial skin. Scabies (or sarcoptic mange): Highly contagious infection caused by a microscopic mite. Scabies causes intense itching and can be transmitted to people. Fortunately, there are many topical medications available to remove and treat these parasites. Topical external parasite control is a highly effective means of handling and preventing these infections. In some cases additional measures may be needed such as environmental control, systemic/oral preventatives and/or dermatological treatment. Many external parasites can be spread among pets and infest your home. It is important to treat all of the pets in the household and the environment as well. Please follow our detailed instructions for successful therapy. Contributed by White Oak Animal Hospital, reach them at 540-374-0462

A brief re-cap of last month’s story leaves me and Arch Di Peppe on I-66 in Fairfax VA at 6AM hitchhiking to Madison College a whopping 115 miles away. Rides #1 and #2 were fairly uneventful. The first car just had no defroster so you couldn’t see and the 2nd was a dump truck with the AM radio cranked all the way up so we could hear “them make them sounds with a saw” as the driver said. We decided it was best to just nod and agree. That ride ended on Rte 50 west near Aldie at a truck stop / country store / gravel pit. And there we sat. And sat. And sat. Two guys, a back pack, a valise, a D18 Martin guitar, and 28 cents. And we sat. Hunger getting the best of us we went in the truck stop store and blew our considerable holdings on a couple of those big oatmeal cookies with the cream filling. We chose the oatmeal cookies over Suzie Q’s because oatmeal was more like breakfast than chocolate cake. Then we went back out and we sat. The Virginia State Troopers didn’t even stop. We sat. Ride #3 was a 1962 Ford Sedan, peace sign on the roof, small dog and cute girl headed from Fairfax to Warrenton. Rte 50 west does not go to Warrenton. She liked to take the scenic route which basically included three sides of a square. What the hell. We were late and didn’t care which way we got there. At least it was a ride. She stopped on Rte 211 outside Warrenton and Arch gets out and sticks his thumb up. The first car dives onto the shoulder and stops. Ride #4 was a ‘60’s Plymouth station wagon. He lowered the back window and we threw our stuff in on top of the shotguns… Arch jumps in the front

35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings

Stacy L. Horner, DVM; Gary B. Dunn, DVM; Melanie Bell, DVM; Sandi L. Pepper, DVM; Melissa A. DeLauter, DVM ; Arlene Evans, DVM; Jennnifer Skarbek, DVM

540/374-0462 20

July 2014

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10 Walsh Lane

Contact Rim at autoknown@aol.com for more tales on life.

Old Town’s Greatest Tour

Serving you & your companion animals for 16 years

www.woahvets.com

seat, slides to the middle and I get in by the door. We are greeted by a gentleman holding 3 year old twin boys, one under each arm. He was taking the kids and everything else to Tennessee before he killed his wife and someone else. Hence the shotguns. The two boys found an immediate fascination with Arch. They clung to his knees eating graham crackers which they would chew but didn’t like to swallow. The residue was deposited on their shirts and the knees of Arch’s pants. They also liked to bite. Each other or Arch made no real difference to them. Me? I observed. The driver trying to control the twins makes texting and driving look safe. He finally asked if one of us could drive. He stopped quickly, slid to the center and tucked a boy under each arm. I ran around and got behind the wheel. At this point there was still a chance I could get us to the church on time so off I charge up the mountain and into the first turn where I hit the brakes and all hell broke loose. I have driven cars that shook and bucked and tried to yank the steering wheel out of my hand but none did a better job than this old wagon with the push-button transmission. His observation being, “The tranny mounts are gone and you’ll want to watch the brakes.” Plan B was to get back alive without bite marks. I drove us to the dorm, late for our classes but safe. Six and one half hours to go 115 miles. That’s 17 m.p.h. Pitiful. I wonder if he and the boys made it to Tennessee.

Fredericksburgtrolley.com

540-898-0737

HollyBurg Oscars notes burg’s role By gary olsen It was January 1958, and the Fredericksburg dancing crowd was calling the band, led by Link Wray and His Ray Men, to play something like the Diamond’s famous “The Stroll.” Wray said he didn’t know any stroll tunes, so he improvised a song that wowed the hop hall. The delirious crowd yelled for four more reprises, and with that history was made in what turned out to be one of the more influential rock songs to emerge from the late ‘50’s, spear-heading the power chord movement and the distorted amplifier sound that is still in vogue today. The song ultimately was named “Rumble,” and the venue where it was first played, the old National Guard Armory, has been long gone and replaced by the shopping plaza on the corner of Route 1 and Fall Hill Road where Virginia Barbeque sits. Director/writer Quentin Tarantino loved the song so much that he made it a centerpiece in his 1994 Pulp Fiction. The scene, aptly named “Uncomfortable Silence,” had Uma Thurman and John Travolta, on their first date, sitting at opposite ends of a restaurant table. While Wray’s “Rumble” plays prominently in the background, the two say absolutely nothing for what seems like eternity before Thurman says: “Don’t you hate that—uncomfortable silences. Why do two people find it necessary to yack about bull in order to be comfortable. That’s when you know you’ve found somebody really special, when you can shut up for a minute and comfortably share silence.” Travolta replies: “I don’t think we’re quite there yet since we just met.” Fredericksburg becomes the focal point in my next film lecture on the Academy Awards Best Pictures and the Nominees, when I discuss the years 19901994, on July 10 th at the Central Rappahannock Public Library at 1201 Caroline Street. The Academy’s 1991 Best Picture was Silence of the Lambs, was the first horror movie to get the top prize. Based on a book of the same name on the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit’s investigation of a composite serial killer, the FBI, normally reluctant to assist Hollywood in film projects unless heavily scrutinized, was particularly accommodative here in giving the film’s producers the run of the FBI Academy grounds in Quantico. The film’s main character, Clarice Starling, played by Jody Foster, is attending the Academy to become a special agent. She is handed the assignment of interviewing Hollywood’s number one villain of all-time, Hannibal Lecter, to help solve a case. Even before the cameras rolled, Foster, director Jonathan Demme, Scott Glenn, who plays the FBI’s John Douglas, and a few other actors researched

extensively the Academy’s inner workings at Quantico. They studied the Behavioral Science Unit’s members, they practiced shooting techniques and sat on a number of classes at the Academy. For people who have worked at the Academy, the film shows a number of familiar sites within its grounds: the running trails Foster jogged on, the firing ranges, the Academy’s classrooms and offices and the famed Hogan’s Alley where training exercises were filmed. Some fulltime employees of the Academy who reside in the Fredericksburg area are actually in the film as extras. Two other highlighted movies under study, A Few Good Men, and Forest Gump, used nearby Washington, D.C. as a backdrop of some of their most memorable moments. Viewers will instantly recognize the outside of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, the Potomac Park ball fields and the Iwo Jima Statue in the Tom Cruise flick while the Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool gets especial notice in the Gump film. These and other fascinating details of this era in films will begin at 6:30 p.m. on July 10.

Gary Olsen is giving this film presentation as a way to tell his audience that living in Fredericksburg is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you are going to get.

THE POETRY MAN - BY FRANK FRATOE

Liberation A thick wall has fallen down to reveal everywhere around us the boundary of our awareness, which is taken up and opens whenever we choose to live it letting the human heart respond. Astonishment overturns death with knowledge that a sunset cannot undo lightyears in space, as each hour continues onward and birdsong near our window comes like rain filling the sea.

Frank Fratoe lives and writes in the city

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July 2014

The Caring Cat What is humane?

external parasites can cause multiple problems

Companions

AutoKnown Better poughkeepsie - part two By Rim Vining

Ticks: Ticks represent an important cause of disease transmission.

Fleas: When a single flea is found, this represents a mere 1% of the entire problem: the other 99% includes their eggs and larvae that are developing in your carpets and bedding.

Cheyletiellia: A mite infection also known as walking dandruff. Lice: Appearance similar to dandruff. Lice on your pets are not contagious to people and vice versa.

35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings

Stacy L. Horner, DVM; Gary B. Dunn, DVM; Melanie Bell, DVM; Sandi L. Pepper, DVM; Melissa A. DeLauter, DVM ; Arlene Evans, DVM; Jennnifer Skarbek, DVM

540/374-0462 20

July 2014

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10 Walsh Lane

Contact Rim at autoknown@aol.com for more tales on life.

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Gary Olsen is giving this film presentation as a way to tell his audience that living in Fredericksburg is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you are going to get.

THE POETRY MAN - BY FRANK FRATOE

Frank Fratoe lives and writes in the city

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Senior Care

IPDE:

forever young

an attitude of gratitude

By Karl Karch

By Suzy Woollam

The Who, a famous English rock group, released a hit song “My Generation” in 1965. It contained one of the most quoted lines in rock history “I hope I die before I get old”. Baby Boomers (BBs) are turning 65 at a rate of 10,000 every day. So, by the time this article hits the streets, almost 13 million BBs will be between 65 and 68 years old, or should I say young. With a total BB population estimated at 77 million (26% of the U.S. population), that leaves only 64 million left to pass through 65. This year is another milestone when the last of the BBs will turn 50. The BB cohort is so large, it has been likened to a “pig moving through a python”. This transformational generation has directly and indirectly changed every aspect of society it has moved through: disposable diapers, television, movies, the sexual revolution, psychedelic drugs, computers, women’s movement, civil rights, delayed marriage, fewer children, more divorces, changes in pensions from defined benefits to defined contributions, Starbucks, and environmental focus, to name a few. Now that BBs are entering their senior years, “the times they are (and will continue to be) a changin’”. If you want to talk about BBs, don’t refer to them as “old” or “aging”. “Mature” may be a better descriptor. The booming antiaging market, projected to grow to almost $200 billion by the end of the decade, is being fueled by BBs who want to retain a youthful appearance. Google is developing the driverless car. Could they be anticipating the day when BBs will no longer be able to drive? So, what transformations will we see as BBs enter retirement age and beyond? Ken Dychtwald Ph.D., an expert and visionary on aging-related issues, stated, “Age Power will rule the 21st Century and, in many critical ways, we are

July 2014

woefully unprepared”. Here are some examples: Retirement will be redefined. What age will be considered old? BBs don’t like to be called old. They are mature. 65 is the new 45. Entitlement programs will change. Social Security was enacted to provide a basic level of support for the elderly, a financial safety net, when the average life expectancy was 63. Social Security and Medicare funds are inadequate to support an aging America. We must find a cure for Alzheimer’s, the sixth leading cause of death. While significant advances have been made in curing or managing many chronic illnesses, Alzheimer’s disease is the only disease that has no cure. The fastest growing age group are those 85+ and 45% of this age group currently has Alzheimer’s. Right to death issues will gain momentum as the demographics continue to shift to an aging population. There will be a caregiving crunch. Fewer caregivers will be available to care for an aging population that wants to remain independent in their homes but will require assistance. BBs have changed expectations throughout their lives and there’s no reason to believe it will be any different as they continue to age. Bob Dylan wrote the song “Forever Young” in 1973. The refrain in the song describes BBs expectations: “May you stay forever young, forever young, forever young. May you stay forever young”. Karl Karch is a Certified Senior Advisor and local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services.

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IPDE. Learned it over 30 years ago during my Sophomore stint in Drivers Ed. And although this little acronym was meant as an approach to Defensive driving, I long ago adopted it as a daily reminder for a grateful life. It stands for Identify, Predict, Decide and Execute. Identify the situation, predict where it is going, decide how to react, and execute your response. Good or Bad, we are each responsible for what we manifest in our lives. Each thought that we focus on with emotion acts like an energy flow, a magnet, drawing in like energy. When we choose to focus on negativity, this is what we draw to us. When we choose to focus on joy, it can abound and surround us. The choice is available to each of us, every single day, with just a few simple steps: Identify: Areas of your life would you like to improve. Whether a job, a relationship, or just an aspect of yourself, take the time to clearly identify what it is you are focusing on. Predict: The benefits the change will provide. If you are identifying a new job, predict how the abundance of money

Wellness Mindfullness Amidst the madness By john mclaughlin, md and security will benefit you and your family. See it, feel it, be grateful for it. Decide: Consciously participate. Create a vision board, or start a journal. Begin to create your vision through words or pictures. Be specific as you create, remembering to focus on the gratitude, the joy. Unselfishly visualize all your needs and feel grateful, as though they have already occurred. Execute: Take the time each day to focus your gratitude on your desires. Be thankful for all the blessings in your life including the challenges you face, for they make up a part of you as well. Focus on the ultimate outcome, embrace the opportunity, feel the joy. Adopting an Attitude of Gratitude isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. It can improve our mental and physical health, decrease our stressor responses, and help us to find a sense of appreciation and peace.

Suzy has an attitude of gratitude everyday in The Scenter of Town on Charles St.

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photo by robert a. martin Is it just me, or have you also noticed that the level of stress and anxiety in our society keeps getting worse? This trend has adversely affected our levels of peace and well-being in the world. We can’t get rid of all our stress, but we can learn to reduce its effect on us. This is the goal of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Mindfulness is a quality of awareness that we all possess, but it is not fully developed. In MBSR we learn techniques to help cultivate this quality of awareness using meditation, gentle yoga, self-reflection, and the body scan. These practices help us develop a greater awareness of the subtle sensations in our bodies, as well as our mental states, which in turn helps us to respond more appropriately to life’s stresses and lessen our level of distress. Mindfulness has its roots in 2500 years of Buddhist tradition, though it has been utilized by many wisdom traditions around the world. Now science is studying the effects of mindfulness on the body and mind. A 2011 meta-analysis of MBSR trials found it to be a “useful method for improving mental health and reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression,” and recommended it as means of improving the quality of life for patients managing disease. The “M” is the key to this stress reduction strategy. Mindfulness is an intentional state of mind that helps us pay close attention to whatever we are experiencing in the present moment, whether it is pleasant or unpleasant. It is a state of mental focus and clarity imbued with the qualities of curiosity, kindness and wisdom. Mindfulness allows us to uncover the often unconscious and unhelpful mental patterns that control our lives. For example, a car cuts in front of you in traffic and you have to slow

down to avoid hitting it. In a fit of anger you think the driver is a complete idiot and decide to ride his tail. But you really want this guy to know how annoyed you are, so you pull over into the next lane and give him a dirty look as you speed past his car, believing you are teaching him a lesson. In this scenario we see what can happen when we are not paying attention to the space between “stimulus and response.” These unattended thoughts and feelings are like kerosene on a fire, causing a reaction that is out of proportion to the offense. This inappropriate reaction only causes more stress to all parties involved. If you had been practicing mindfulness at the time, you would have been acutely aware of the subtle shifts of feeling states in your body and mind, and would have been better able to anticipate an appropriate response. Holocaust survivor, Victor Frankl, wrote, “Between the stimulus and the response there is a space and in that space lies all your power and freedom.” There is a moment of choice before we react to the stress and pain of the moment. We are too often unaware of this space and get caught up in the habitual patterns of reacting to life. Mindfulness brings awareness to this space and helps us to respond more appropriately to the situation. John McLaughlin, MD, practices and teaches meditation/mindfulness with the Insight Meditation Community of Fredericksburg and works as a radiologist. He will be giving a presentation on MBSR at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2014. His next eight-week MBSR course will take place at John Fick Conference Center (MWH Campus) starting in late September 2014. Contact John McLaughlin at mbsrfredericksburg@gmail.com.

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July 2014

Senior Care

IPDE:

forever young

an attitude of gratitude

By Karl Karch

By Suzy Woollam

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Suzy has an attitude of gratitude everyday in The Scenter of Town on Charles St.

Dr. Christine Thompson

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

891-6200

www.thenaturalpath.us

4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

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July 2014

Art in the ‘Burg First Friday must sees! Dancing with Light and Shadow Lynn Abbott and Fritzi Newton Light and shadow take center stage at the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts Member’s Gallery in July’s collaborative fine art exhibit featuring acrylic paintings by Lynn Abbott and photography by Fritzi Newton. A w a r d winning local artists, Abbott and Newton have combined efforts to capture their respective artistic journeys through

by megan byrnes recovery of hope and beauty. The exhibit’s theme finds root in an unwavering belief that light overcomes darkness. Join Lynn Abbott and Fritzi Newton for the opening of “Dancing with Light and Shadow” on Friday, July 11th from 6-9 pm in the Member’s Gallery. The exhibit will run from Saturday, June 28th through Friday, July 25th. Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts, located at 813 Sophia Street, is open daily 12 noon – 4 pm; Saturday 11 am – 4 pm; and closed on Tuesdays.

The

The Art First Gallery, located at 824 Caroline Street, is open daily from 11 am – 5 pm. Take this opportunity to enjoy the abundance of great art created by Fredericksburg-area artists. In addition to the featured artist, you’ll also find art displayed by more than thirty more gallery members.

blind item: what beloved local chef is rumored to be competing in the next season of Bravo TV’s reality cooking competition, Top Chef?

Contributed by Art First and FCCA

Congrats

“I’ve Got Your Back” by Lynn Abbott

“Muted Beauty” by Fritzi Newton color, composition, and perhaps, most importantly, light and shadow. Although their approach is different, they are confident the theme provides common ground for a visually provocative show.

Both women agree it’s the light and beauty in our lives that help buoy us through our darker moments. The creative narrative of this exhibit suggests the possibility of redemption—the

to UMW professor

Will Mackintosh and Skin+Touch Therapy owner Brian Lam (below) on their New York nuptials last month. The pair celebrated surrounded by close family and friends at Big Moose Lake in the Adirondacks on what looked to be a gorgeous day!

“The Color of Leaves” New works by Helen Butler “The Color of Leaves,” an exhibition of new works by Fredericksburg-area artist Helen Butler, is the featured show at Art First Gallery from Tues., July 1 through Sun., July 27, 2014 with a First Friday celebration on July 11 from 6-9 pm. Award-winning artist Helen Butler, known as a colorist, is the featured artist of July’s one-person show at the Art First Gallery. Butler is one of the North Windsor Artists and a twenty-year member of the Art First Gallery. After years of travel and painting European landscapes, Butler returns to a favorite subject in this show: Leaves, rendered in pastel, oil and watercolor. Butler’s work, while hung in a great many homes in the Fredericksburg and Richmond areas, has been shown throughout the United States and is owned by collectors in Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, Australia, Germany and Italy. Whether you are one of the many local collectors or Helen Butler’s art or are new to her work, this show of brilliantly colored leaves will not disappoint.

baby Virginia Mary. The trio was out on a gallery tour to check out all of Fredericksburg’s fine art – and though baby Virginia Mary was sound asleep during the entirety of her outing, there’s no doubt she was feeling nothing but love all the way down Caroline St and up William!

Congrats

are in order for

long-time Free Lance-Star business reporter, Bill Freehling,(above) on his new j-o-b as Assistant Director of Economic Development for the City of Fredericksburg (or as his wife, Emily likes to say, Assistant to the Director – The Office, anyone?)

Seen:

“Grape Leaves” by Helen Butler

NOTE: First Friday for July is happening one week late because the 4th of July falls on Friday this year.

Yang came down UMW Alum Erik Bruner-Y with two things in tow: one, a large steamer to make his famous pork dumplings (of which Joelle Cathleen said “most amazing thing to hit my taste buds in a decade, I believe”) and two, a couple of large scale urban style graffiti art paintings by DC artist Kelly Towles. Stephen Graham, the Foode crew, Joelle Cathleen and Emma Chayefsky all displayed photography in the show perhaps most popular of the night was Emma’s photographs of Sunken Well regulars. This exhibit also marked the first time Mo Marsh had his delish food as models for a photograph – a banner day indeed! Missy Colombo, Sean Walker, Alvin Murphy, Barb and Jack Miller, Patricia Watts, Teo Owen and a whole host of

Blessings to Lynda Allen and Bill Brooks (below) on their recent wedding.

Anne Timpano at the

FCCA First Friday reception; Nancy Greer Collins dining al fresco with friends on the Kybecca patio; city Clerk of Court Jeff Small grabbing a burger on the Vivify rooftop; Maggie McGraw, Dave Guzman and Amy Carlson checking out the Tuesday music scene at Bistro Bethem; Matt Paxson at Wegmans with the following items in his cart: two watermelons and a bag of grapes (completely irrelevant but kind of funny); Karin Beales with her baby girl sharing breakfast with some friends at Eileen’s; Heidi Lewis walking around downtown

Scene:

other Well and Colonial Tavern Regulars came by opening night to check out the art, listen to the Brokedown Boys (left) perform and get a taste of the amazing apps the Well had to offer!

Proud momma Alexis

Grogan along with smitten grandmomma Virginia out on a First Friday stroll with

Happy June birthdays to Derek Kirkland, Missy Colombo, Laura Craig, Melissa Okrasinski, Dave Minckler, Nate Masters, Catesby Payne, Lindsey Quinn, Joan Critz Limbrick, and Megan Mason!

Scene:

ATMOSPHERE:

Fredericksburg’s Most Delicious Art Exhibit at the Sunken Well Tavern. The exhibit paired awesome local artists with equally awesome local eateries for an evening of culinary and artistic inspiration! Toki Underground chef and

Kathleen Willingham

Featured Artist at Brush Strokes Gallery for the month of July. Kathleen will have a new series of acrylic paintings on display that are about her love of nature and the visual surprises that happen every day in a garden whether it is natural or produced by man. She has entitled this show “Garden Magic” meaning that each and every thing that lives in natures gardens from seedlings to magnificent blooms is magical to behold. Using her imagination or painting directly from a cut blossom, she has expressed this idea by using patterning found in nature and bold colors along with imaginative elements that move the paintings away from the ordinary. Kathleen is a retired art educator that has been with Brush Strokes Gallery since 2009. She paints in oil, acrylic and soft pastel. Her work may also be seen in other galleries in Fredericksburg, Richmond, Culpeper and Sperryville.VA. contact Kathleen at kwpainter@yahoo.com or www.kathleenwillingham.com

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

The

blind item: what beloved local chef is rumored to be competing in the next season of Bravo TV’s reality cooking competition, Top Chef?

Contributed by Art First and FCCA

Congrats

“I’ve Got Your Back” by Lynn Abbott

Both women agree it’s the light and beauty in our lives that help buoy us through our darker moments. The creative narrative of this exhibit suggests the possibility of redemption—the

to UMW professor

Congrats

are in order for

Seen:

“Grape Leaves” by Helen Butler

NOTE: First Friday for July is happening one week late because the 4th of July falls on Friday this year.

Blessings to Lynda Allen and Bill Brooks (below) on their recent wedding.

Anne Timpano at the

Scene:

other Well and Colonial Tavern Regulars came by opening night to check out the art, listen to the Brokedown Boys (left) perform and get a taste of the amazing apps the Well had to offer!

Proud momma Alexis

Grogan along with smitten grandmomma Virginia out on a First Friday stroll with

Happy June birthdays to Derek Kirkland, Missy Colombo, Laura Craig, Melissa Okrasinski, Dave Minckler, Nate Masters, Catesby Payne, Lindsey Quinn, Joan Critz Limbrick, and Megan Mason!

Scene:

ATMOSPHERE:

Kathleen Willingham

July 2014

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front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

COMMUNITY LINK

FXBG Music Scene

Courtesy of WFVA and Front Porch

Youth mental health first aid training

singer/songwriter laurelyn dossett coming to the burg

By Michelle Wagaman

by wendy Larue

Laurelyn Dossett is as authentic and accessible as the songs she writes. Seeing herself in a line of traditional ballad singers, she says, “I tend to write and sing songs that tell stories. Some are easily identifiable as being rooted in Appalachian tradition, others more contemporary; but all waters from the same well.” Her home in the Piedmont of North Carolina often shapes her work: “I am inspired by landscape, the flora and fauna, how the night sky looks, how the breeze smells, what the birds are saying to each other.” The recipient of numerous singing and songwriting awards, Dossett’s compositions have been featured on Grammy-winning releases by the likes of

Levon Helm, of The Band, (“Anna Lee,” Dirt Farmer and Ramble at the Ryman) and the Carolina Chocolate Drops (“Leaving Eden” title track). A tremendous talent with genuine southern charm, it is no surprise that she is one of the most sought-after voices in creative collaborations. And collaborate she does, with a variety of artists and organizations, from the North Carolina Symphony to Triad Stage’s Preston Lane. Dossett and Lane have partnered on five plays featuring regional folklore and music. In a recent production of their collaboration, Providence Gap, at Davidson College, she accompanied the

Come Play With Us ! Key Board Classes ~ Ages 3-4: Tues. 1:30pm; Wed. 10am ages 4-6: Wed. 7pm; Teens & Adults: Tues. 7:30pm Schedule Posted on Website

540-371-4526

FREE INTRODUCTORY LESSONS

207 William Street

www.ymsfred.com

students in each of the performances. Dossett says that collaborations really stretch her, “I get to write songs from the point of view of characters I would not imagine on my own. I have to put myself in different skin, see the world and tell the story in different ways.” On July 19, the Music & Spirits concert series will bring Dossett’s Appalachian-inspired music to our Piedmont Fall Line town to perform at A. Smith Bowman Distillery. Dossett will be accompanied by Jason Sypher (upright bass) and Scott Manring (guitar and banjo).(photo) All three artists plan to teach master classes prior to the performance. Workshop details will be posted at musicandspirts.com. A strong supporter of creating more opportunities like these for communities to experience and learn about music, Dossett believes that “music is uniquely qualified to connect people to themselves, their own interiors, and with each other... both the person in the seat next to you and the person across the tracks or across the sea that you may not notice otherwise.” Urban folk-rocker, Justin Trawick, will open the show with his gritty sweet lyrics. Tickets for the concert, which starts at 7:30 p.m., are $18 online, $20 at the door. Find more information, purchase tickets, or sign up for email updates at musicandspirts.com.

Advanced Dental Care of Fredericksburg Call Us at 540-891-9911

Wendy LaRue, owner of AhHa! Consulting, LLC, is a local free-lance writer and editor who has lived in the Fredericksburg area for 25 years.

$599 Crown

With this Coupon only for non-insured patients. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer Expires 8/1/14 A $239 .00 Value

$699

Per Arch Full Denture/Partial With this Coupon only for non-insured patients. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer Expires 8/1/14 A $1100.00 Value

Certified Experienced Staff

Because we care for you!

YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOL OF FREDERICKBURG Located in Downtown Fredericksburg for Over 40 Years

10524 Spotsylvania Ave. Ste #104 Fredericksburg, VA

July 2014

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www.virginiadental4u.com

The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) is pleased to now provide Youth Mental Health First Aid Training to local organizations and members of the public. Youth Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour training course designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. Participants will be better able to help an adolescent (age 12 – 18) who is experiencing a mental health or substance abuse challenge. The training is appropriate for parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, and coaches. RACSB Executive Director Ron Branscome shares, “The community response to the adult Mental Health First Aid training which RACSB began providing earlier this year has been wonderful. We’re glad to add the youth curriculum that will benefit education professionals, family members, and others who interact with adolescents. Through the training, participants will be able to help connect the adolescent experiencing a mental health challenge with local resources like counseling or support groups.” The course utilizes role-playing and simulations to help participants’ better gain skills to offer initial assistance in a mental health crisis and how to effectively connect adolescents to appropriate community resources. Participants will learn the common mental health challenges for youth, typical adolescent development, and a five-step action plan for how to help young people both in crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices includes Mental Health First Aid training. The 8-hour training will be provided over two (2) days. There is a registration fee of $25.00 which includes a workbook and lunch the first day of the training. Trainings are limited to 20 participants and are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Trainings will be held on the following dates (times and locations may vary): July 24 – 25; August 14 – 15; September 11 – 12; October 9 – 10; and November 6 – 7. To register for the training, please contact Jennifer Bateman, Prevention Specialist, at 540-374-3337 orjbateman@racsb.state.va.us. Visit www.racsb.state.va.us for additional information and a training flyer. Founded in 1970, the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) provides public mental health, intellectual disability, substance abuse, and prevention/early intervention services to the residents of the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford. Michelle Wagaman, is the Public Information Officer for Rappahannock Area Community Services Board. She can be reached at 540-940-2314 or mwagaman@racsb.state.va.us

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

COMMUNITY LINK

FXBG Music Scene

Courtesy of WFVA and Front Porch

Youth mental health first aid training

singer/songwriter laurelyn dossett coming to the burg

By Michelle Wagaman

by wendy Larue

Come Play With Us ! Key Board Classes ~ Ages 3-4: Tues. 1:30pm; Wed. 10am ages 4-6: Wed. 7pm; Teens & Adults: Tues. 7:30pm Schedule Posted on Website

540-371-4526

FREE INTRODUCTORY LESSONS

207 William Street

www.ymsfred.com

Advanced Dental Care of Fredericksburg Call Us at 540-891-9911

Wendy LaRue, owner of AhHa! Consulting, LLC, is a local free-lance writer and editor who has lived in the Fredericksburg area for 25 years.

$599 Crown

With this Coupon only for non-insured patients. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer Expires 8/1/14 A $239 .00 Value

$699

Per Arch Full Denture/Partial With this Coupon only for non-insured patients. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer Expires 8/1/14 A $1100.00 Value

Certified Experienced Staff

Because we care for you!

YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOL OF FREDERICKBURG Located in Downtown Fredericksburg for Over 40 Years

10524 Spotsylvania Ave. Ste #104 Fredericksburg, VA

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

www.virginiadental4u.com

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July 2014

Be Part of the Magic Fairy Godmother project fulfills wishes for families

Remixed 2 Call for artists by gabe & scarlett Pons

Have you ever wished you had a fairy godmother to swoop in and clean your house, do the lawn, provide dinner, send you gas cards, cut your hair , take professional photographs of your family during a time you will never forget and just listen and support you? Who hasn’t? Imagine though, how helpful that would be if your child was facing pediatric cancer, and you were traveling multiple times a month to a treatment center outside of our area (because Fredericksburg does not have pediatric oncology services), were missing work and school, were trying to raise other children and keep their lives as normal as possible all while watching your child fight for his or her life. Well, Fairy Godmother Project (FGP), a Fredericksburg based non-profit organization does just that every single day! We provide day-to-day support to caregivers of pediatric cancer patients allowing them the opportunity to focus on their family. By providing professional house cleaning, lawn care, meals, date nights, hair cuts, gas cards and emotional support, FGP is able to alleviate daily stressors and give these families the gift of community support, more time together as a family and less time on household tasks.

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery will be hosting its fifth community art exhibition in August of 2014. We’ve rescued stacks of old Christmas records, wiped the dust off and, with your help, will turn them into something that people actually enjoy– a fun work of art. ”Remixed” is a follow up to our “Remixed Vinyl Album Show” in June of 2013 which included over sixty vinyl albums from over 25 participating artists.

Here’s how the show works: once you pay the entry fee, we provide you with up to three ready-to-hang vinyl albums (the fee is $12 per record, or $30 for three). You have until July 27 to turn your Jane Fonda Workout album into a work of art, which will be exhibited throughout the month of August. The theme and medium are up to you, but there is one rule: each record is mounted on wood block with hanging wire and must stay mounted in order to be suitable for display on our gallery walls.

All artists must use the premounted vinyl albums (provided when you pay the entry fee) and all work must be for sale. Submit your best work! The gallery reserves the right to reject submissions based on quality: uniqueness and creativity, craftsmanship and execution. Entries must be original creations of the artist – no reproductions of others artwork.

Calendar Deadline for Submissions: Saturday, July 26 (10-6pm) Sunday, July 27 (noon-5pm). Opening Reception: Friday, August 1 (6-10pm) Exhibition Dates: August 1-30 Gabe and Scarlett never cease to amaze us with their unique, creative, and fun Art Exhibitions. Be sure to attend this one in August.

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

Front porch fredericksburg

Jo Loving will be enjoying this July 4th with her family in Florida, this time with a new generation of babies (granddaughter pictured) watching parades and fireworks. She plans to enjoy every one of her freedoms.

Submission Requirements

Think About

M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

doubt that my children will impart the link between independence and responsibility to them. This gives me hope for our future as a nation. Whatever you do this July 4, take a moment to appreciate your freedoms, and whisper a word of thanks to those who have made this independence possible. Vow to honor their sacrifices, and take responsibility to ensure our continued freedom for generations to come. Finally, turn off your phone, watch the fireworks, and enjoy their simple beauty against the night sky.

This exhibit is open to all artists (professional and emerging) in the Virginia/DC/Maryland Region.

Something to

July 2014

in person: Dept. of Motor Vehicles

Eligibility

Give a Child

online: www.save7lives.org

By jo loving

Spinning at 33 1/3 rpm

Andie McConnell is the co-founder and Executive Director of Fairy Godmother Project and spends her days fundraising, supporting families, raising awareness about pediatric cancer and raising 3 children!

Stories that shine a light on life

independence day

By andi mcconnell Would you be interested in being part of the magic of helping these families? We have numerous ways to get involved in Fredericksburg to support our organization. We always need event sponsors, meal makers, volunteers to assist with events, and are always happy to put volunteers to work based on their strengths or interests. Also, we have 2 upcoming events that are sure to be not just a great way to raise money but also great evenings out for couples and friends. Consider joining us July 18th upstairs at Brock’s Riverside for our Casino Night or our September 26th Stardust Ball at The Silk Mill. If you are interested in learning more about how you can become an FGP Volunteer or about our events, please visit our website www.fairygodmotherproject.org or call us at 540-645-4282.

PORCH LIGHT

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. - Denis Waitley Independence Day has always been a special day in my family. My parents made sure that we understood the meaning of the day and the sacrifices that were made for our nation’s independence and for our freedom. My favorite July 4 was the Bicentennial celebration in 1976. It offered a great opportunity to learn about our nation’s independence. Because the country was focused on this celebration, an air of patriotism was everywhere. The streets were lined with flags and citizens, and I was honored to be in the parade in my school’s marching band. As my piccolo reached the crescendos of John Phillip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever, I felt a swell of national pride. Even today, I feel that same pride when I hear that song. After the parade, people lined up early for the best fireworks viewing seats, picnicking while they waited. Once it was dark, patriotic music played on the marina as the fireworks lit up the dark sky and reflected on the Bay. These fireworks were the longest, brightest, boldest display I had ever seen. I didn’t want them to

end. It was a perfect moment in time that generated shared wonder and awe for everyone who attended. My journey into patriotism continued when I grew up and went to work for the Navy. Each morning as the National Anthem played and the flag was raised, I was reminded that our freedom came with a price. Later, after our move to Fredericksburg, my commute into DC took me past monuments and historic buildings, serving as a daily reminder of what it had taken to make our nation great. It made me feel that I was part of something larger than myself, appealed to my sense of responsibility, and made me appreciate my own independence. As my family grew, I taught my children about freedom and responsibility. We celebrated July 4 with cookouts or picnics and a trip to Olde Mill Park or the other side of the river to see the beautiful fireworks, followed by a visit to Carl’s for refreshing ice cream. We watched parades, soaked in the local festivities, and used teaching moments to discuss the purpose and meaning behind the celebrations. The circle of learning continues, and now my children are teaching their children. The grandchildren are too young right now to understand the meaning, but I have no

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunities in Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400

Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

Front Porch Fredericksburg

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

SHOP THE BOULEVARD! Lafayette Boulevard…

DOWNTOWN! front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

Be Part of the Magic Fairy Godmother project fulfills wishes for families

Remixed 2 Call for artists by gabe & scarlett Pons

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

Front porch fredericksburg

Submission Requirements

Think About

M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

This exhibit is open to all artists (professional and emerging) in the Virginia/DC/Maryland Region.

Something to

July 2014

in person: Dept. of Motor Vehicles

Eligibility

Give a Child

online: www.save7lives.org

By jo loving

Spinning at 33 1/3 rpm

Stories that shine a light on life

independence day

PORCH LIGHT

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunities in Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400

Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

Front Porch Fredericksburg

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

SHOP THE BOULEVARD! Lafayette Boulevard…

DOWNTOWN! front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

The Summer Garden

Renew I

Nick Cadwallender, The Happy Gardener

...your mind, your tastebuds

by Joan geisler

By Archer DiPeppe Gardeners tend to be wellcentered and understand that the simplest pleasures are often the best. I’ve never met an unhappy gardener, and I don’t think I ever will.

Arch DiPeppe isn’t a gardener, but does cultivate positive addictions.

photo by robert a. martin

Our lives are filled with obligations and distractions. Those who do not cultivate positive addictions can easily fall prey to negative ones. A garden offers the opportunity to stay focused on the present moment and is so much more than a diversion. For those with enough dedication and patience, it is the pathway to a Zen-like experience where growing vegetables becomes a metaphor for life. Nick Cadwallender is easy to like. He’s intelligent and affable and has passion and commitment to his newspaper and his community. Adversity doesn’t affect his sense of humor. There is confidence without arrogance. Conversation comes easily, and his wide range of interests can easily capture your attention for hours. He was born in England, and his family immigrated to Australian when he was a young boy. Gardening was not a leisure activity as much as a way to help feed the family during difficult economic times. Garden lessons reveal secrets for success in many other arenas, as well. I asked Nick how he had time for a garden. “Well, I don’t hunt, fish, or play golf,” he said. He told me that most of the time he only needs about an hour a day. He calls upon a wealth of experiences to solve garden problems. His regular strategies include layers of newspapers, grass clippings, and leaves between the rows of vegetables to keep down the

July 2014

weeds. He saves seeds from his successes but always experiments with seeds from Roxbury Mills and catalogs. If he produces a great watermelon, you had better believe he saves those seeds for next year. He composts, so nothing is wasted. It would probably be easier to list the things that he doesn’t grow rather than to try to list all that he does. There are six types of tomatoes and four types of eggplant. He grows one type of cabbage that he doesn’t eat just to distract the bugs from the cabbage that he does. There they sit side by side. One is chewed on regularly by insects, and one is barely touched. He grows tomatoes, okra, kohlrabi, broccoli, peas, peppers, potatoes, asparagus, parsley, lettuce, carrots, Swiss chard, and four kinds of green beans. I am sure that isn’t all, but it’s all that I can remember. Nick starts several seedlings in his basement during the winter. It was so cold this winter, and then all the rain kept him from transplanting his tomatoes until they were nearly two feet high. He knows what to plant where and when. He loves setting the rows out in perfect lines with string to get everything just right. What is his favorite part of gardening? “When the plant first sprouts out of the ground,” he says with a smile. He knows exactly how long it should take, and he starts checking a couple of days in advance in joyful anticipation.

Front porch fredericksburg

“You are so sweet.” “Come give me some sugar” “Lips as sweet as honey” Sweets and sugars are pervasive in our society and have even infiltrated into our vernacular. Sugar can be friend or foe. Friend in the words we speak, foe on our spoon. We know that sugar affects our waistline but do you know it affects your brain too? The same part of the brain that responds to cocaine and causes addition to it is the same part that is affected by sugar. Most Americans have become addicted to sugar. Sugar free and non-fat foods popularized in the early 1980’s have not worked. The manufacturers have taken out the sugar and fat and added chemicals to make the new processed, laboratory foods palatable. It sounded like a great idea and the answer to diabetes and weight watchers the world around. But the opposite has happened. Diabetes has grown with the American pant size. Manufacturers have confused the public and created ‘food frauds”. Food manufacturers hide sugar in the most unlikely foods. A serving of commercial spaghetti sauce can have as much sugar as an ice cream sandwich. Healthy sounding foods like energy/vitamin drinks, breakfast bars, yogurt, smoothies and prepackaged meals are loaded with sugar. Even when the package touts health benefits like ‘cholesterol free’, heart healthy’, or my favorite ‘made with whole grain goodness’, it still can be LOADED with sugar. Here is an abbreviated list of sugar-disguised words. Dextrose. Dextin, Frutose, High frutose corn syrup or any corn syrup, Hydrogenated starch, Glycose, Lactose, Maltodexin, Maltose, Xylose, Sugar alcohols all end with OL. Malitol, Xylitol READ LABELS. Make sure your foods come from whole, recognizable ingredients and not a chemistry lab.

So what are we to do? Where do we start? Here are 2 simple action steps. Number One. Know what grams of sugar means. One level teaspoon of sugar = 4 grams. The ‘healthy’ energy bar can have 18 grams of sugar! That is nearly 5 teaspoons of sugar!! The whole grain breakfast cereal has 12 grams of sugar in 3/4 cup. READ LABELS! A 16ounce can of soda has 29 grams of sugar. That is 7 teaspoons of sugar. Don’t be fooled by switching to diet drinks. Artificial sweeteners actually make you crave sweets, elevates your bad cholesterol (HDL), lowers your good cholesterol (LDL) and raise triglycerides. This makes a fatty liver, and turns our belly into a hoover dam for fat storage. Number Two. Stop eating High Frutose Corn Syrup (HFCS). READ LABELS. If it has a shelf life, chances are it has high frutose corn syrup. Log Cabin syrup bottle has bold capital lettering on the front, “NO HIGH FRUTOSE CORN SYRUP”. It was true. But only a half truth. The first ingredient is corn syrup. Followed by water and sugar. Sad thing is people probably read the front and not the back and buy the syrup. I did. Research shows that one can of soda a day increases a kid’s risk of obesity by 60% and a women’s chance of getting diabetes by 80%! I will step out on a limb and nearly guarantee that if you completely cut out all soda, regular and diet, and eliminate HFCS, you will lose 10 pounds. I want to plead with you to understand the detrimental health effects of sugar on our waistlines and our brains! It is everywhere. Not just in the foods we consider sweet, but in the least suspecting places. Our bodies convert white refined foods into sugar. If you love bread or pasta, you are addicted to sugar. Cancer loves sugar. Most diseases love sugar. Sugar feeds most diseases. Now I am NOT remotely suggesting that you do not ever have a piece of cake or candy again. Live by the 80%-20% rule, eat clean 80% of the time and 20% fun. It helps establish self discipline. Let’s take back our health and the health of our loved ones. Let’s not be the average American that consumes 152 pounds of sugar a year. We can be smarter than that. If not for your waistlines, then do it for your brain. I am here to help you.

Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com

540/371-9890

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE

ARCHER DI PEPPE CAGA

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

Insurance Riders Estate Settlements Divorce Cases Damage Claims Oral or Written Appraisals SPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Certified Appraiser Certified Appraiser’s Guild of America

adipeppe@aol.com

(540) 373-9636

Joan Geisler is a certified personal trainer at Gold's Gym Fredericksburg. For inspiration and health tips follow her on twitter at #joan_geisler

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014

The Summer Garden

Renew I

Nick Cadwallender, The Happy Gardener

...your mind, your tastebuds

by Joan geisler

By Archer DiPeppe Gardeners tend to be wellcentered and understand that the simplest pleasures are often the best. I’ve never met an unhappy gardener, and I don’t think I ever will.

Arch DiPeppe isn’t a gardener, but does cultivate positive addictions.

photo by robert a. martin

July 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com

540/371-9890

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE

ARCHER DI PEPPE CAGA

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

Insurance Riders Estate Settlements Divorce Cases Damage Claims Oral or Written Appraisals SPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Certified Appraiser Certified Appraiser’s Guild of America

adipeppe@aol.com

(540) 373-9636

Joan Geisler is a certified personal trainer at Gold's Gym Fredericksburg. For inspiration and health tips follow her on twitter at #joan_geisler

front porch fredericksburg

July 2014