Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine March

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contents

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history’s stories: old sayings history in our backyard: a soldiers writes home

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what’s in A Park? :tidbits of archaeology

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mental health: conversation about eating disorders

Cedric Rucker umw center renamed

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emancipated patients: .medical education

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wellness: exercise for health & longevity Life coaching: managing yourself in time

honey brooks fxbg finest

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auto known better: a fish tale

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art in the ’burg ...galleries in march

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bowling green scene spring has sprung

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deaf culture digital library

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companions: fleas

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astrology & you poetryman: hidden but there

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fredericksburg sketches

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sounds of silence how jan 3 snowstorm won

bob whittingham creative businessman

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Porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

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everything greens: native trees & scrubs

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In the Garden: seeding inspiration

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growing & crawling: wasps...a bad rap

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i have a friend: friendships flourish

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tidbits...small bites of local news

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season’s bounty: leavened heaven

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vino: red blends

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Calendar of Events

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...And More!

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full hearts after empty bowl

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hat’s off to jinxie

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cover artist collette caprara

Cover: “Hyperion Bustle” By Collette Caprara

Follow Us on Instagram@hyperion_espresso 2

March 2022

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Cedric Rucker Umw Campus Hub renamed in honor of longtime dean

By Lisa Chinn Marvashti President Troy Paino noted, "Since his arrival on campus almost 45 years ago, Cedric Rucker has dedicated his life to making the Mary Washington community better. UMW is a more caring, compassionate and inclusive place because of him, and this is a fitting tribute to honor that legacy."

As a junior, Rucker enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Virginia, where he later earned a master's degree, began a doctoral program and took a job in Admissions.

UMW Board of Visitors Rector Heather Crislip poses for a photo with Cedric Rucker His big laugh and bowties may not be present at the University of Mary Washington much longer, but a decision at today's Board of Visitor's meeting ensures that Associate Vice President and Dean of Student Life Cedric Rucker's legacy will live on in the heart of campus.

The renaming goes into effect upon Rucker's official retirement on June 24, 2022, more than four decades after he

He made his way back to his first alma mater in 1989, becoming Mary Washington's dean of student activities, a position he held for nearly a decade, before moving on to his longtime role as dean of student life. In these roles, he has breathed immeasurable vitality into campus, serving as an energetic and consummate supporter of students. safari and visited the Great Wall of China.

And that's just for starters.

Upon retirement, he plans to join the Peace Corps, once again wielding his unstoppable energy far away from Mary Washington.

The UMW Board voted today to name the University Center - the fourstory hub of student activity on bustling Ball Circle - the Cedric Rucker University Center.

Rector Heather Mullins Crislip '95 said of the decision, "Cedric Rucker has had an indelible impact on thousands of Mary Washington students and alumni.

He made us better people and inspired us to live lives that are authentic, pursue justice and seek to deeply understand

each other. I can think of no other person who perfectly defines the Mary Washington ideal than Cedric."

arrived on Marye's Heights in 1977 as an undergraduate who'd go on to study sociology and weave himself into the fabric of Mary Washington.

T h e first AfricanAmerican male graduate to live in the residence halls, Rucker soaked up campus life, joining the anthropology club, working at the library and radio station, and f o r m i n g unbreakable bonds with his classmates.

"Mary Washington just felt like mine," he said during a recent interview.

But Rucker will always be at UMW in spirit, with generations of future students reading his name every day when they enter the Cedric Rucker University Center to share meals with their friends, meet with their clubs and keep campus life moving … just like he has.

As an adjunct faculty member for 33 years, Rucker taught sociology to hundreds and hundreds of undergraduates, and worked with his colleagues to create enlightening courses, like Ethnic Studies, designed to bring inclusivity into the classroom.

All this while he was regaling the UMW community with annual rituals that lifted spirits and fostered a sense of connection and caring. Every year, he hands out Halloween candy dressed as Winnie the Pooh, helps soon-to-be grads adjust their regalia, and simply shows up for the arts, for athletics, for the students.

A relationship-builder, Rucker is also a collector of antiques and all things "Mary Washington." And he's a world traveler, having peered into the Grand Canyon, hugged the giant sequoias, climbed inside the Great Pyramid, stood on the ground in Hiroshima, gone on

"I'm stunned," Rucker said through tears at this morning's meeting, where he received a standing ovation. "It's because of the level of engagement of this community that I'm able to dedicate myself to the success of the students and to the success of this institution."

In honor of Dean Rucker's upcoming retirement, the UMW Alumni Association will offer a dollar-for-dollar match - up to $5,000 - for gifts made April 5 during Giving Day to the newly formed Cedric B. Rucker '81 S.O.S. (support our students) Fund. The endowment will be used to support students with unexpected and life-altering emergencies.

Lisa Chinn Marvashti is the Assistant Director of Media and Public Relations photo upper left by K. Pearlman Photography photos provided by UMW media

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ON THE PORCH Penny A Parrish

Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan

Chuck Archer Sally Cooney Anderson Amy Bayne Laurie Black Dianne Bachman Sean Bonney Sonja Cantu Collette Caprara Janet Douberly Frank Fratoe Bill Freehling Jennifer Galvin Jon Gerlach Marcia Grimsley Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Christie Hoerneman Nancy B. Kelly David C. Kennedy Lisa Chinn Marvashti Wendy Migdal Ray Mikula Vanessa Moncure Nancy Moore Pete Morelewicz Patrick Neustatter Penny A Parrish K. Pearlman Paula Raudenbush Rob Rudick Terry Rensell Jenna Elizabeth Russo Paul T,Scott Ted Schubel Debbie Seacreast Mandy Smith Christine Thompson Susan Van de Putt Rim Vining Tina Will Norma Woodward

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

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

meet the belles by penny A Parrish For many of us, COVID has meant the loss of habitat where friends meet: restaurants, concerts, libraries, art galleries, exercise and sports venues. We stayed home and attacked in-house projects we'd put off for months or even years (I sorted and labeled family photos).

But even the "to do" list dwindled and we needed something to save our sanity.

Enter Pickleball (PB). I had taken lessons a couple of years ago, and played indoors at various locations. Now those Rosemary Pitts, a places were closed. friend and fellow PB player, noticed the courts at Pratt Park were usually vacant.

So she invited me and a few other ladies "of a certain age" to play PB there outside once a week. We began in May 2020 and we're still going strong almost two years later.

When we started, PB lines were on the courts where we played, but the lines were so faint our old eyes could barely see them. A request to Suzanne Smith, Stafford County Community Recreation Manager, brought out a crew with bright yellow paint. We had fun "supervising" the guys.

Our group needed a name.

Several were proposed, including the "Broom Brigade."

After rain or snow, we'd sweep the courts and push the water/snow aside. It was Mary Raye who decided we are the Pickle Belles. Meet our other main Barbara members: Barrett, Sheila Johnson, Ann Misener, Debbie Westmoreland, Barbara Tokar and Judy Thielman.

Since we play outdoors, the Belle's have to factor in certain issues that can cause our games to deviate from the official rules. For example, when it's windy we use the boundaries for tennis so we have more room to maneuver. If it's sunny, and you're facing the glare, you can be forgiven for missing a ball because you were blinded. If geese fly over and you

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

Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com

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

“PBelles at Net” During the past 20+ months, there have only been two or three weeks when we didn't have enough to play (we need four) or the weather did not cooperate. Mary Raye Cox and I have taken turns as the weather guru, who on Sunday night picks the best day for our outing: warm as possible and no precipitation. Sometimes we're actually correct.

Copyright 2022

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Passersby who see us playing will often hear us use the words "you're in the kitchen!" It's a PB term and has nothing to do with stoves or refrigerators. So I am sure confusion reigns supreme when they see a bunch of older ladies screaming about the kitchen (it's an aspect of the weird rules and scoring that are part of pickleball).

Our start time depends on the season. In the winter, we usually play at 1:00 pm. As it warms up, we move to 11 am. By the middle of summer when steam is coming off the courts, we begin at 8:00 in the morning. Since I retired a decade ago, the Pickle Belles are the ONLY reason to get up that early!

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

Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com

“Penny Pickle Belle”

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look up, there's a built-in excuse for a bad serve because of Mother Nature. If dogs run around outside the fenced court, it's okay to take a break and pet them. Most importantly, it's acceptable to forget what the score is, who is serving or even what someone's name is. Serious pickle ball players would be appalled at our "rule book" which we dub "The Pratt Park Pickle Belle Playing and Problem-Solving Compendium."

The goal is fun and exercise, not winning.

In between sets, we drink water and chat, share stories of family and friends, talk about TV and movies, and laugh. When the weather is warm, we sit under a tree or gather at nearby Chatham for a picnic. We swap egg cartons for shopping at the Fredericksburg Food Coop. We trade copies of books and share Front Porch Magazine. We celebrate birthdays and holidays with cards and little gift bags (usually involving chocolate).

Front Porch Magazine fosters friendship, community, caring and laughter. So do the Pickle Belles. Enjoy the read!

Penny A Parrish enjoys photography and writing and lives in Stafford.

Photos by Norma Woodward of Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg’s Finest honey brooks by jenna elizabeth russo Please allow me the pleasure of introducing Honeyleth 'Honey' Nora Brooks, a woman who, in many respects, needs no introduction, and whose namesake could not be a more perfect fit for the joy she has contributed to the local culinary scene.

200 William St Downtown Fredericksburg 540-373-4421 crownjewelersfredericksburg.com

You may already be well acquainted with Ms. Brooks if you are a member of The Taste of Fredericksburg - a Facebook group, now 16.1K members strong, created in August 2020 by Mr. Fernand Delisle and his wife,. Rasheeda Witherspoon, to support and promote local restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. An 'influencer', a 'food critic,' and 'one of the kindest people you'll ever meet' are the most consistent epithets that community members have used to describe Brooks' impact. "In a time when our world needs kindness, Honey has been nothing but kindness and love to all she meets. She is a true example for all of us.

I love her!," says Amy Johnson, founder and owner of Amy's Cafe in historic

Whether you are saying "I Do" or "Be My Valentine" We are Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged Tues-Fri: 10a-5p Sat: 10a-4p 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847

www.gemstonecreations.org

Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940

On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com

Falmouth.

Brooks' daily posts in the Taste of Fredericksburg thoughtfully recreate the ambience of l o c a l restaurants and e x p r e s s gratitude for their quality s e r v i c e .

Accompanying each post are professionalquality photos and descriptive captions that have enticed c o u n t l e s s viewers to follow Brooks' lead and experience the magic for themselves. She has featured the tasteful presentations and tantalizing dishes of everywhere from local legends, like La Petite Auberge, to casual establishments, such as Bonchon. You name it, you will most likely be able to find an insightful commentary from Honey.

Brooks.

Aladin Mediterranean Kitchen and Highmark Brewery have expressed interest in featuring Brooks in their social media marketing, and many more will likely be lining up with invitations in no time.

Honey has also played a leadership role in Dinner With Friends founded in November 2021 by Jennifer Wyche Conrad as an off-shoot of Taste of Fredericksburg for ladies to socialize with new friends amongst the region's thriving culinary establishments, wineries, and breweries.

The group is now approximately 500 members strong and in no small part due to Brooks' influence has supported or hosted events at Eileen's Bakery, Aladin Mediterranean Kitchen, My Wife's Pizza & More, Juan More Taco FXBG, and Kusina Filipino Restaurant & Gourmet; karaoke nights at Amy's Cafe, Gourmeltz, The Pub, and Paddy's Public House; and a family holiday party at Himalayan Heritage. Brooks' promotional efforts, collaboration with and support for local business owners, and genuine enthusiasm are a boon to the community.

Honey Brooks, 38, moved to the Fredericksburg region in 2018 with her husband, retired U.S. Air Force TSgt. Kevin Brooks, 43, and their son, Hunter, 9. The entire family is actively involved in Honey’s community engagements. The Brooks previously had been stationed for five years in Germany, where Honey provided family & child care services for the U.S. Air Force.

Honey was born in the Philippines, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Cum Laude, with a concentration in Banking & Finance, from San Pablo Colleges. She has served as a waitress at the five-star Tanjung Rhu Resort in Langkawi, Malaysia; as an au pair in Belgium; and as a financial technician at MCCS Quantico, before deciding to be a stay-at-home mom. On the impact and legacy she aspires to create, Ms. Brooks states: "Giving and sharing are always my number one goal in my everyday life. It makes me feel happy and closer to God."

Jenna Russo is a local realtor .

Her facebook, The Writing Realtor, highlights local business owners & community members showcasing why FXBG region is an amazing place to live

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Everything Greens native trees & shrubs

By Christie Hoerneman Dean’s Plastering Services

pollinators, which are essential to our food systems and landscapes.

Plaster, Stucco, Drywall, Art 540.656.2399 540.419.8878 luckyluckydean@aol.com With the recent winter storms that have come through the area, many trees and shrubs have been lost, altering the landscape around many homes and businesses.

When the landscape has been altered so drastically, it's a good time to take a moment and contemplate what is wanted and needed from the nature that sits outside our doors. Beauty isn't the only thing that a landscape can provide; it can also provide food and shelter for wildlife and serve as a larval host for

Please join with me and continue to support our Local FXBG small businesses in 2022 SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com

If we want to increase the biodiversity in the area, then native trees and shrubs are essential.

While nonnative plants may provide food and shelter for pollinators, we would have no pollinators without native plants, because they are the only plants that can serve as larval hosts-the plants required for the growth and development of caterpillars-which in turn provide essential food for birds and their young. The ecosystem is a beautiful and delicate balance that we can help by providing the essential plants needed to help insects, pollinators, and wildlife.

If you have a large space, some excellent trees to consider are: White Oak- can grow up to 80 to 100 feet tall with a wide canopy that can provide excellent shade. Oak trees can provide habitat for more than 500 species of butterflies and moths; the most of any woody plant.

Black Cherry- these trees can grow from 25 to 110 feet. It has beautiful white flowers and red fruit that turn to black.

The fruit is consumed by 33 species of birds and many mammals, and it is the larval host for ten different butterflies or moths, including the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.

Red Maple- this tree can grow up to 65 feet wide with a 35 to 40 foot wide canopy. These trees have beautiful red leaves in the fall. Squirrels and birds love this tree as well as deer, which like to browse the foliage.

Serviceberry- the Serviceberry is a great native alternative to invasive Bradford pear trees.

It has beautiful white flowers, do not smell, and provide great food for birds and small mammals.

Many times the middle layer, neither trees or flowers, are often forgotten.

Here are some shrubs to provide foliage and flowers for that layer: New Jersey Tea Shrub- this shrub is named as such, because the leaves can be used to make tea. It's a great shrub to help fix nitrogen, it provides nectar for butterflies, and the seeds can be consumed by turkey and quails. It grows up to 3 feet in height.

Winterberry- the beautiful red berries on the Winterberry provide a spark of color in the winter landscape, and is a larval host to the Henry's Elfin butterfly.

While it is not an evergreen, it provides a good native alternative to the popular nandina whose berries are toxic to birds if eaten.

If you're looking for a tree for a smaller space, these trees are perfect:

Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

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Flowering Dogwood- the Virginia state flower comes from this tree, which typically grows between 20 and 40 feet tall.

The tree has beautiful whitish spring blooms, red fruit, and red fall foliage. It is the larval host for the Spring Azure butterfly, and it attracts birds and butterflies.

Eastern Redbud- a great tree for shady areas, these trees grow between 15 and 30 feet tall and have beautiful pinkish colored flowers in the spring. Redbuds are great to help out native bee populations, since they are usually a first source of food in the spring.

Christie Hoerneman is on the Board of Directors at Downtown Greens.

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

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In the Garden seeding inspiration By tina will the pandemic began. Many people were happy to find old seed catalogs and v i n t a g e gardening b o o k s because they have more 'how to grow' information and classic botanical drawings than newer Cold Weather Flats Ready, photo by Susan Van de Putte catalogs. More March! A wonderful month when than 150 attended and found it well we enjoy longer days and warming trends, organized by Master Gardeners Joan Pope, but gardeners have to resist the urge to Arlene Wilkinson, Linda Kline, about fifty work a soil that may be too wet and cold.

MG volunteers, and VCE/MG Coordinator, Soil temps need to be in the 50's at night Lisa Ellis.

(40's for some crops). Consider using clear or black plastic to warm the garden soil So, what does one do with those more quickly. Cool weather crops will have seeds received at the Seed Swap? MG Tracy been started by many, but still need Blevins gave a talk on "Understanding the protection if temps get too low. Some Seed Packet'. Read the packet carefully, or people are having success starting seeds in check on the internet using a prefix of 'ext' plastic milk jugs. These act as small cold or 'edu' to get to the research-based frames, for cool weather vegetables like information.

Some seeds need peas, spinach, chard, carrots, and 'scarification' (scratch the surface), others brassicas. VCE publications from ext.vt.edu will need very cold temps before they give helpful information: VA Home Garden sprout. If you are not sure, or can't find Vegetable Planting Guide, and Mulches for the right information, ask a Master the Home Vegetable Garden (Publications Gardener. Our VCE/MGACRA has a 426-331 and 426-326 respectively). monitored helpdesk: Because the goal of Master Gardeners (MG) is to reach the public, it was very gratifying to hear about and see the Seed Swap response on Facebook, and from people who attended our Feb event.

Both vegetable and native plant seeds were enthusiastically collected by gardeners, attesting to the increased interest since

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winter. I was not prepared when the local grocery store, without power for two days, could not sell their produce due to the too long interruption of the required safe temperature. I had not anticipated such a restriction on vegetables and fruit, and though I do understand, I find it a shame that so much perfectly good food could not be purchased. The lesson for me: grow more of my own food.

Does your landscape struggle with too much shade? Our April 2nd Symposium at Gari Melchers Home and Studio is themed: Made for the Shade.

Three speakers will address this topic:

Bryce Lane, Jenny Rose Carry, and Geoff Rinehart. Register online or by mail by March 25, 2022; schedule, speaker information, and registration form at: https://www.mgacra.org/2022symposium.html. Encourage your friends to join you; it's always a good investment, and you may help inspire another to begin the gardening adventure.

Tina Will is a Master Gardener and lives in Stafford County. She can be reached at brianandtina.will@gmail.com

VCEStafford.helpdesk@gmail.com.

Many people have become new gardeners, or better gardeners, and are seeking sources of good seed to grow what they want. January's heavy snow storm reminded me of the value of having garden produce stored for use during

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723 Caroline St 899.8077 Daily 11-5 Sunday 12-4

Growing & Crawling wasps: pollinators with a bad raps By janet douberly We all have a wasp story. At some point we, or somebody we know, got stung, sometimes multiple times, by wasps. Let's face it, wasps have a bad reputation and many folks understandably and indiscriminately hate all wasps. But what if I told you that wasps ultimately do more good than harm?

What makes wasps so scary to most people is that some of them can sting and, unlike bees, stinging does not kill them. In fact, they can do it several times when they feel they are in danger, laughing all the way. (Well, maybe not.)

What most of us don't realize is that only a small percentage of the hundreds of types of wasps found in Virginia are considered dangerous stingers. In fact, most wasps are found to be beneficial due to the fact that they are not only great pollinators but they will eat many of the insects that we consider pests.

Some wasps even lay their eggs inside of pests for their young to devour upon hatching. How helpful is that?

And though, much like humans, some wasps will use the only weapon they have available to defend themselves and their homes, if we respect their boundaries and adapt a live-and-let-live attitude towards any that aren't setting up camp on our houses, I think we can all

learn to appreciate everything our wickedlooking, dagger-weilding friends do for us.

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

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“I Have A Friend” friendships flourish

By Laurie Black Senior Visitors Program volunteers and the seniors they visit often say they feel lucky to be part of the Senior Visitors Program. Whether it is luck, good timing, or something else, it is wonderful to see friendships flourish. These friendships, both individually and collectively, are making a difference in our community.

Corinne Abrams and her friend, Carol, met and began visiting about three years ago. Their smiles say so much about their story.

Corinne explains, "I moved to Fredericksburg in 2017 - the same year that I lost my grandmother. I had always enjoyed spending time with her and thought that it was important to find a relationship with someone older who might benefit from seeing me as much as I would from seeing him or her. I also wanted to be a good role model for my teenage son. I wanted him to know how important it is to have great relationships with those who are older than we are."

Carol was already familiar with the Senior Visitors Program. Carol was a former volunteer for the program. When her circumstances changed and she found she needed friendship and support, she came back to the Senior Visitors Program as a client.

Carol says, "[Senior Visitors] means a whole lot to me because without having a visitor, I wouldn't have anything to look forward to. It's good for older people who don't have someone to listen to them. I also like the program because sometimes, I feel like I help Corinne, too, and that makes me feel like I'm needed."

Of their visits Carol says, "We laugh together! It's nice to have fun for a change and have company who cares.

There was one time when I was really upset and my companion, Ralph, was really sick, - and Corinne showed up and talked to me when I was feeling bad.

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Even though I have a companion, she loves talking to him, too. She's wonderful and very considerate. She calls, she comes by to visit. I so enjoy having her talk to. She doesn't lecture me - just talks to me. She's family and feels like a sister."

When I asked Corinne about Carol and their visits, she replied, "Where do I start? Carol is feisty, funny, caring, independent, and constantly on-themove.

She has such a wealth of compassion for others who need help. She was a long-term Veteran Affairs volunteer prior to COVID. She has maintained her independence (and helped Ralph maintain his) through some very difficult health challenges. I admire her very much!" "[When we get together] we catch up from the last time, we laugh (and laugh some more), and we usually eat together. Either I bring takeout (Dairy Queen is their favorite) or Carol will make wonderful subs. On a serious note, we share what's going on in our lives, with our family, and most importantly, I try to be a good listener as sometimes, that's what she needs most from me."

"Our visits make me forget that I've had a long work week, or that my teenager and I aren't seeing eye-to-eye. I love knowing that she looks forward to talking with me as much as I look forward to our visits. I knew that I would "get attached" and I have! I didn't know that I would be getting two seniors to spend time with - when Carol started to spend time with Ralph, he naturally fell into place with us. I feel like I have 2 for 1!"

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

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

Laurie Black is the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator.

donatelifevirginia.org

Full Hearts After Empty Bowl Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life!

Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.

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

Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required.

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

Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704

but needs are still great By nancy b. kelly Thank you to everyone who braved a chilly day and warmed our hearts LibertyTown Arts Workshop's at wonderful outdoor space during Empowerhouse's 23rd Empty Bowl event.

Even with the ongoing pandemic, Empty Bowl 2022 was a big success thanks to so many people who joined together to support survivors of domestic violence. At a time of continued, heightened need for survivors and their children, our friends rallied to make a positive, life-changing difference to these vulnerable community members as they heal and move forward.

We are grateful to LibertyTown for providing a fantastic venue where we could safely gather in a masked, socially distanced way while enjoying each other's company and marveling at the gorgeous bowls made by our talented, local artists.

The tremendous response from our caring community, our generous sponsors, and ticketholders, the gifted potters, the creative design work by Higashi Glaser, and our dedicated and hardworking Empty Bowl Committee and volunteers, made this event possible!

Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940

On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com

Kerry Devine, Sarah Hanson & Mayor Mary Katherine Grenlaw at Empty Bowl 2022 We are also thankful that our amazing and compassionate community continues to show up and step up to help Empowerhouse and our neighbors in crisis. Recently, we surpassed the $60,000 goal for our year-end effort to Empower A New Generation because incredible supporters like you recognized the importance of providing our children and teens with critical resources for greater self-esteem, better self-care, and the vital skills for a healthy relationship. These are tools that empower young people and help strengthen them, as well as break the generational cycle of violence and increase children's safety.

We have accomplished so much, but there is still great need. 1 in 4 women are victims of domestic violence. Over 10,000 children in our community witness family violence each year. It touches every demographic, every city, every town.

The pandemic has brought increased incidences of domestic violence and an ongoing urgent demand for emergency shelter and associated services.

We also see this urgency in the elevated level of our hotline calls. The families in our 24-hour domestic violence shelter and our housing program continue to need additional economic supports as we seek to assist survivors and their children in crisis. As the adverse economic impacts of COVID-19 endure, Empowerhouse is providing more, unbudgeted funds for rental assistance to our housing families to keep them safe, stable, and secure in their homes. As some of our shelter

families struggle financially, we are also offering more supports, including food, transportation, personal care products, self-care items, and technology support, to ensure their needs are meet. During the pandemic, the number of people we are housing and the length we are housing them have increased, as have our costs.

Though the challenges are many during this uncertain time, Empowerhouse continues to provide safe housing and crucial services to vulnerable community members fleeing abuse, deliver healthy relationship programs to children and teens, provide court advocacy for survivors, and staff our 24-hour confidential hotline. It is thanks to caring friends like you that we can fulfill our mission to empower survivors of domestic violence and their children to believe in themselves and build new lives filled with dignity, respect, safety, and hope.

To learn more about Empowerhouse and how your contribution makes a powerful and lasting impact, please go to www.empowerhouseva.org, or follow us on FaceBook, Instagram and Twitter @empowerhouseva. If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call our confidential 24hour hotline at (540) 373-9373.

Nancy B. Kelly is the Development Director for Empowerhouse.

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TidBits

Become a Member

small bites of local News

By Bill Freehling FXBG Area Museum Reopens FAM will reopen to the public March 1st Swing by the museum at 907 Princess Anne St to experience a number of permanent and temporary exhibits.

These exhibits showcase the vast and historical figures of Fredericksburg.

www.fredericksburgcsa.com

Fredericksburg’s Hometown Irish Pub & Restaurant Since 1961 Allman's Named One of Best D.C. Barbecue Restaurants Longtime Fredericksburg staple Allman's Bar-B-Q has been named as one of the best barbecue restaurants in the Washington area.

Allman's is located at 1299 Emancipation Highway and has been in business since 1954. The Washington Post recently named Allman's as one of the 11best barbecue restaurants in the area.

Allman's recently got a new pitmaster and part-owner, Matt Deaton. who has brought some changes to Allman’s Congrats to Allman's on the welldeserved recognition!

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

200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

Serving Up Local “Good” News For a Quarter Century

Hopping the Train to FXBG A train ride to Fredericksburg is easy and affordable, only outdone by its gorgeous views.

Multiple times every day, trains from Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express roll through Fredericksburg Station.

Riders can take Amtrak as far north as Boston, and as far south as Miami. Every weekday, riders can take the VRE through Northern Virginia and up to Union Station in Washington, D.C. And if you were to make Fredericksburg your destination for a trip, there is perhaps no better method of transportation than the train.

Front Porch Fredericksburg 12

March 2022

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Dragon's Den & Treasures A small family-owned business that specializes in "crystals, metaphysical tools, and historical knick-knacks" is open in downtown. The Dragon's Den & Treasures is located at 1002 Caroline Street.

Carl's is Open In an annual sign that Spring can't be too far off, Carl's has re-opened after being closed for the winter.

People often line up on Reopening Day to be among the first to enjoy Carl's tasty treats - rain or shine (or snow). Carl's is located at 2200 Princess Anne Street.

We look forward to the return of Carl's for 2022!

Pure Art: Wegner Metal Arts Unveils a New Project for FXBG Fahrenheit 132 Named One of America's Most-R Romantic Restaurants Downtown Fredericksburg restaurant Fahrenheit 132 has been named as one of the 100 most-romantic restaurants in the United States.

The steak-focused restaurant made a list published by Open Table featuring eateries that "make it easy for diners to connect and create amazing memories." Open Table generated the list by analyzing more than 12.4 million reviews.

Fahrenheit, which is at 318 William Street, was one of only four Virginia restaurants to make the list.

Congrats to Cole Berlin and the rest of the Fahrenheit team on this wonderful accomplishment. If you haven't tried Fahrenheit, be sure to do so soon!

Their current project is an exciting one for downtown Fredericksburg.

The Wegners are sculpting otters, which will be placed around downtown.

"They're just as cute as can be," Steven said, as they already have one otter completed. They believe these otters will be exciting and fun for kids in the area.

The first otter is planned to be installed at Riverfront Park, hopefully

by World Otter Day this spring. In partnership with Fredericksburg VA Main Street, the Wegners want to make these otters representative of Fredericksburg itself, which is why they are installing them throughout the city.

They are also proud that these otters will not cost the Fredericksburg taxpayers any money, as all funds for the project are being privately raised. (pix otter in progress) Bill Freehling, Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism

The Sunken Well Tavern

Season’s Bounty leavened heaven vanessa moncure

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

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

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

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

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

“Waffles aren’t just for breakfast any more.” Not really a *News Flash*, but breakfast is probably the meal most closely associated with that crisp-griddled buttery wedge of leavened-heaven we call waffles. Once-traditional tastes expand into many sweet and/or savory popular variations served ‘round the clock chicken ‘n waffles, galette ice cream sandwiches, pizzelles, waffles on a stick and hot dog waffles (really), a Thailandcreation of a hot dog baked inside a waffle and served with ketchup, just to name a few - and it’s hard to resist their appeal.

Walk the food midway at any state fair or carnival and chances are you’ll find Lolly Waffles, chocolate-and sprinkle-dipped on a stick - or French Toast Waffles, dipped in an egg-and-cream mixture before griddling and served with maple syrup or fruit - The basic batter of flour, eggs, milk, butter or oil and leavening takes a twist when sugars (like maple sugar or cane) or herbs (oregano or thyme) or fruits (dried or chopped peel) or flavorings (aniseed or vanilla) are added. Most named waffles specify a traditional recipe with a patterned pair of heated plates. The Belgian waffle, with over a dozen variations, is known for its one and onehalf-inch deep irons, while the Italian pizzelle is as wafer-thin as a crepe, but crisp and golden and confectioner’s sugardusted. I shuffle an assortment of irons through my kitchen - my grandmother’s waffle iron, with its thick brown fabriccovered cord, my mother’s large waffle iron with interchangeable plates, a pizzelle-maker, a German heart-shaped waffle iron, a round one, a double-square one and a round deep electric Belgian waffle iron - I also have a set of cast-iron hinged irons which are meant to be greased, preheated over a fire, then set on a stand and turned until the sides are uniformly brown. (For historical purposes only - not in the kitchen rotation) Although in case of another derechocaused week without electricity, I may reconsider.

MY MOM’S EVERYDAY WAFFLES (Straight from Mom’s stained 1953 edition of Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook, with its iconic red- and whitechecked cover.)

Sift together one and threequarter cups sifted all-purpose flour, three tsp. baking powder, one-half tsp. salt and set aside. Beat two egg whites until stiffly beaten and set aside. Beat together two egg yolks, one and three-quarter cups milk

and one-half cup salad oil and stir into dry ingredients. Fold in whites, leaving a few fluffs. Bake in preheated waffle iron.

Makes three teninch waffles.

(BETTER, THE BUTTERMILK V E R S I O N ) Substitute two cups buttermilk (I use whole milk buttermilk)for sweet milk. Add one-half teaspoon baking soda to the dry ingredients and reduce baking powder to two teaspoons.

BELGIAN WAFFLES Mix together two cups all-purpose flour with four tablespoons sugar, one tsp. baking powder, dash of salt. Set aside. Beat together two eggs, one-half cup melted butter, two tablespoons vanilla extract and two cups whole-milk buttermilk. Stir into dry mixture just until mixed, there may be a few lumps, but an overmixed batter will make tough waffles. Bake in preheated Belgian waffle iron. Serve with fresh fruit or fruit compote and sweetened whipped cream.

SAVORY DILL WAFFLES WITH SMOKED SALMON AND CREME FRAICHE Using the Belgian Waffle recipe, reduce buttermilk to one and three-quarters cups and omit the vanilla and sugar. Stir in one teaspoon dried dill leaf or one tablespoon fresh dill with the egg mixture. Bake in regular waffle iron (If making in Belgian waffle iron, go back to the Belgian recipe).

Top with either creme fraiche or cream cheese mixed with chives, then layer with smoked salmon and garnish with fresh dill.

CHICKEN AND WAFFLES - Using the Belgian Waffle recipe, reduce buttermilk to one and three-quarters cups and omit the vanilla. (I usually like to use maple sugar instead of white sugar, light brown sugar can also be used. Add onequarter cup pecan flour to the flour mixture -optional). For the fried chicken cut a whole chicken into eight pieces cutting out the backbone and breastbone.

Cover chicken pieces with one cup buttermilk, two beaten eggs and one-half T. salt and refrigerate one hour or up to one day, covered. Mix together - three cups all-purpose flour, two teaspoons salt, one teaspoon each cayenne pepper, black pepper and paprika, and one-half teaspoon thyme. Drain off the buttermilk mixture from the chicken and dredge pieces in flour mixture. Fry 375F until golden brown and cooked through, turning several times, in several inches of lard (best), mixture of Crisco and lard (better) or Crisco or canola oil (good) with a knob of butter melted in the fat (to help brown chicken). Drain chicken on paper towels.

Make Maple Pecan Butter for waffle topping - beat together one-half cup butter, three tablespoons maple syrup and one-half cup chopped pecans. Makes enough for four servings, or two who love to slather butter on thickly! Bake the waffles, arrange two pieces of chicken atop each waffle, drizzle with maple syrup (fresh, please!) and serve with a scoop of Maple Pecan Butter.

Enjoy your waffling!!

Vanessa Moncure mixes up deliciousness for Front Porch readers every month

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March 2022

13

Around Town Whittingham

Olde Towne Butcher Traditional Butchery - Fresh Perspective

Bob Whittingham Whittingham / The Kitchen at Whittingham 1021 Caroline Street Bob Whittingham has been a fixture on the Downtown Fredericksburg Business scene for decades. Known for his friendly smile, debonair style, creative windows, and astute business acumen, Bob is a'Burg treasure..

whimsical. You can find candles, jewelry, accessories, scarves, platters, handbags, floral and seasonal decorations.

The Kitchen at Whittingham is a cook's playground offering 3,500 square foot of everything you need for your kitchen and cooking needs. including small appliances, cookware, china, glassware, silver, linens, utensils, hard-to-find gadgets, gourmet foods and fine wines.

If you haven't experienced the Cooking Classes, try one soon! Classes provide hands-on instruction taught by the talented chefs and caterers in the Fredericksburg region. Private Classes make for a great party for you and your friends.

Whittingham provides the expertise, setting, food and wine and you learn, eat and have all the enjoyment!

Stop by the stores, you'll be sure to find that something special! And, be sure to say "HI" to Bob...he will be the one in a bowtie!.

Whittingham / The Kitchen at Whittingham.

Located in Historic Downtown Fredericksburg, with the two stores side by side. Both stores offer endless inspiration through dazzling, ever changing, sometimes humorous and always eye-catching in store and window displays! including small appliances, cookware, china, glassware, silver, linens, utensils, hard-to-find gadgets, gourmet foods and fine wines.

Whittingham offers a wide variety of hand selected items to enhance your home décor, from the elegant to the

14

March 2022

Front porch fredericksburg

Clean, local, sustainable, humane foods prepared fresh.

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

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

Our Store is Open

320 Emancipation Hwy fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Vino

Serving Lunch

red blends

$6 Weekday Lunch Specials 11am - 2pm Daily

by Rita Allan

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

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

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

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

540-898-0737

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

Many wines that you are familiar with are blends including wines from Bordeaux and the Rhone valley. Wines labelled as Meritage, Cava and Port are blends. Champagne, Rioja and Priorat can be blends, too.

Blending two or more grapes allows the winemaker to enhance the aroma, color, texture, body, and finish of the resulting wine. Blends allow for wines to be more well-rounded and complex.

Blending allows the winemaker the ability to highlight each grape's strengths, while complementing the other grapes at the same time.

The most famous wine blend is Red Bordeaux. Red Bordeaux wines can only be made from eight red grapes (usually Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and/or Cabernet Franc; sometimes a small amount of Petit Verdot and/or Malbec; rarely Carmenere, Gros Verdot, or St. Macaire). Cabernet Sauvignon is tannic, powerful and hearty, and provides a structure to a blend that allows it to age well. Merlot brings smoother tannins and more red fruit notes. Cabernet Franc may bring some vegetal or peppery notes.

Cabernet Sauvignon grows well in the sandy soils of the left bank (as you face the ocean or south side of the Garonne and Gironde rivers) of Bordeaux, so it usually dominates blends made there, and Merlot grows well in the clay soils of the right bank (as you face the ocean or north side of the Garonne and Gironde rivers), so it usually dominates blends from there.

Wines labelled Meritage (a combination of the word Merit and Heritage, which is a licensed trademark of the Meritage Alliance based in California) denotes wines

made from Bordeaux grapes outside of the Bordeaux region itself, and usually in the United States.

France's Rhone valley is home to Cotes du Rhone wines. Cotes du Rhone wines are often known as GSM blends because the predominant grapes are Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Grenache provides flavors of candied fruit, raspberries and spice and can have a high alcohol level giving a tingling sensation.

Syrah adds fruit flavors like blueberry and black plums, and adds upfront flavor and boldness. Mourvedre adds deep dark color and a persistent finish to round out the wine's palate. You can also find GSM blends from the Unites States and Australia.

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

Supporting All Things Local Since 1997

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March 2022

15

CALEND march 2022...Women’s History Month, St Patrick’s Day, Spring Begins Tuesday March 1

Spotsy Farmers Market @Gordon Rd Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm

St Pat's Leprechaun Run, Old Mill Pa

Live Music @the rec center, Not & More, 213 William St, 6:30p

Live Music @The Rec Center, Komrads, Ya Toyah, STCLVR, 6-10:30p, 213 William St

Live Music@the Rec Center, Cukt XL

Join in the fun mic night @Paradise Diner! If you can strum, bang, howl, or blow then come on down and show us what you got. All musical genres and skill levels welcome 6-9p, 260 Warrenton

Tuesday March 8

Blue Star Mothers of FXBG Gala An FXBG Conference Center, 6-11p

Wednesday March 2

Wednesday, March 9

Ash Wednesday

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

Thursday March 3

Tot Open Gym, Stafford Co Gymnastics, Fun and open play in our gymnastics area. Bring friends and introduce them to our wonderful program. 9-10:30a, 500 Nelms Circle

First Friday March 4

PONSHOP welcomes new artist Courtney Burke with her premiere exhibition featuring hand drawn pyrography on wood., 5-9p City Scroll project continues in the studio w/ guest artist PrintJazz 6-7pm.

FCCA"Start with Green", Suzanne Lane, Ellyn Wenzel, Kimberly Zook All Member Show, Brush Strokes Gallery, opening reception, 5-9p Live Music@The Rec Center, Radar Theory, 6:30p, 213 William St FXG RV & Outdoor Adventure Expo RVs, golf carts, kayaks, and everything in between. Show thru March 6

Saturday March 5

Swing Dance above Picker's Supply in downtown 2:30-6p, 902 Caroline FXBG Drive-In Movie Series, Monstors,Inc., Old Mill Park, 5p FREE family movie night in the park. movie will be played through your car radio. food truck available for dinner. Gates open at 5pm Movie starts at 6pm.

Mad Hatter Masquerade, Eden Try Winery, 6818 River Rd, 6-10p, Basics of Blacksmithinng Class , Black Horse Forge, Learn the basic skills needed to get you started on a lifetime of blacksmithing! 29 Utah PL Live Music@Colonial Tavern, Unchained, 9p, Lafayette Blvd Live Music@Adventure Brewing North, Bailey Hayes, 7p Open Mic@Adventure Brewing Eagle Villagw,7:30p

Sunday March 6

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, . 720 Littlepage til 1p Sunday Brunch @ Billiken's Smokehouse @The Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

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

March 2022

Front porch fredericksburg

Live Music@the Rec enter, Buckets, 6:30p, 213 William St,

FXBG Prayer Breakfast if you believe in the wonderful power of prayer come and join with other like-minded believers and see God make a difference in our lives and land! We will have a complimentary breakfast , Freedom Society 1015 Caroline ST

St Pat's Day Festival @Adventure Br

Live Music@Adventure Brewing Eagl

Sunday March 13

Daylight Savings Time Begins

Simple Steps to Better Health, 6-7 pm, FXBG Food Co-op, 320 Emancipation Hwy and ONLINE. Join Faye Krause, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, as she shares her simple approach to healthy lifestyle changes and leave with a plan to get started! Email fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com for more info or online registration link.

Fine Arts Show & Sale, Dorothy Har FREE, 10a-4p

Live Music @the Rec Center, Downhaul & More, 6:30p, 213 William St

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Match wits with the 'Burgs finest minds. Prize! 720 Littlepage

Wine & Wedding Bridal Festival, Ede meet local wedding vendors to help

Thursday, March 10

Monday March 14

Food Co-op Book Group, 1 pm OR 7 pm. 320 Emancipation Hwy. Read Julie & Julia by Julie Powell or watch the movie and join our discussion about the warm, witty, and inspiring memoir of cooking every recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child. Email scanning@fxbgfood.coop to participate.

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch,

Sunday Brunch @ Billiken's Smokeho

Live Music@the Recreation Center, W 213 William St

Tuesday March 15

Join in the fun open mic night @Par

"Calm Chaos", Pete Morelewicz, Sunken Well Tavern. Opening reception, 6-9p. Show through April 6

Wednesday March 16

Friday March 11

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm

Fine Arts Show & Sale, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. FREE, 10a-8p UMW Music Piano Concerto, Dr Robert Wells & Dr Derek Pearsons a duo piano recital featuring the virtuosic, rarely-performed piano concertos of Anglo-Canadian composer Healey Willan and American composer Amy Beach. The concert is free Dodd Auditorium, 7:30-9p

St Pat's Day Jeopardy @adventure B

Thursday March 17 St Patrick's Day

Colonial Tavern St Patty;s Day Celeb Music 1-4p, Sibling Rivalry, Irish tun 406 Lafayette Blvd

Local Showcasing@the Rec Center, 6:60p, 213 William St

St Pat's Day Feud@Adventure Brewin

Live Music@Adventure Brewing North, Marc Allred, 7p

Friday March 18 Children's Art Show, Dorothy Hart C

Saturday March 12

Fine Arts Show & Sale, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. FREE, 10a-6p

FXBG Spring Home Sale, FXBG Expo C homeowners - who are in all pha getting ready to decorate your hom

DAR of events

d, 9-12p

ark 2:30-4p

LV, 7p, 213 William St.

Evening with the Stars" ,Holiday Inn

rewing North 12 pm-10pm e Village, Hoki Joe, 7p

rt Community Center, 408 Canal St.

Live Music Stay True w/ Empyrean Woman & More @ KC's Music Alley At Central Station, 1917 Princess Anne St, , 6-11:30p Live Music@Adventure Brewin North, Swamp Trash Band USA, 8p

Saturday March 19

Children's Art Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St Annual Benefit Oyster Roast, FXBG Fairgrounds, 2-5p Global Threadz THRIFT WORLD at the FXBG Expo Center! A huge expo of curated vintage & modern street wear, shoes, nostalgia. 9:30-6p

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

m 720 Littlepage

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, Dine-In, Take-Out, & Delivery. 720 Littlepage til 1p

Tuesday March 29

Reservior Clean Up Day, 10a-5p, Motts Run, 6600 River Rd. Friends of Chatham Evening at Brock's Riverside Grill, 503 Sophia St, 68p Come and celebrate spring with us, and enjoy a fun evening with delicious food, fun gift baskets to win, and great company. $

Live Music@the Rec Center, Livid, Lacking, Marquis, DATBX, 7pm

An Evening with Kendra Graham, Bring your friends and loved ones for soul-stirring worship and an inspiring message from special guest speaker, Kendra Graham. Pray together for your community and the upcoming Rappahannock Area Celebration, fellowship with other women, and enjoy a complimentary dessert buffet. 6:30-9:30, FXBG Expo Center

Monday March 21

Wednesday March 30

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm St George Chamber Ensemble Join us for an afternoon of Chamber Music featuring St. George's own musicians. free3p,Princess Anne

Free Porm Dress Pop-Up, FXBG Expo Center, thru March 22

Wednesday, March 23

Brewing Eagle Village, 7:30p

Sunday March 27

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

First Day of Spring

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch,. 720 Littlepage til 1p

radise Diner! 6-9p, 260 Warrenton

Live Music@Adventure Brewing North, Reckless Brigade, 7p

Sunday March 20

ouse @Chimneys, 623 Caroline ST

Wiltwithr, Den of Wolves & More, 6p,

Sid's 21st Bday Bash @the Recreation Center, 7p, 213 William St

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

,. 720 Littlepage til 1p

n Try Winery, 6818 River Rd, 12-4p plan your wedding!

Live Music@Colonial Tavern, CenterPoint, 5-8p, 406 Lafayette Blvd

Live Music@Adventure Brewing North, Darcy Dawn, 7p

"Hats Off to Jinxie: A Celebration of Local Civic Ladies" HFFI Tribute Event, Freedom Tea Society, 1015 Caroline St

Tavern 6-8pm

Saturday March 26

Nutrition and Mental Health, 6-7 pm, Food Co-op, 320 Emancipation Hwy.Dr. Christine Thompson of Whole Health Solutions will provide an overview of how nutrition and specific nutrients are known to play a critical role in mental health and well-being.

Email fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com for more info.

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Match wits with the 'Burgs finest minds. Prize! 720 Littlepage

Thursday March 31

Live Music@the Rec Center, Second Death, God of Nothing & More, 6:3011p, 213 William St

Live Music@the Recreation Center, Nerds Unite, Magic the Gathering, 7p

bration, Music by Dragonfyre, Celetic nes 8-10p.Special Irish Menu til 10p.

ng North, 8p

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm Match wits with the 'Burgs finest minds. Prize! 720 Littlepage

Friday March 25

Live Music @Adventure Brewing North, BLSD - Blessings, Lessons, Stories, Destinations

Community Center, 408 Canal St

If you are reading this 296th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 25th year of continuous publication!

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

Live Music@theRecreation Center, Coffin Curse, 8p

Center Center is the perfect place for ases of landscaping, remodeling or me for spring. Show thru March 20

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

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

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

March 2022

17

history’s stories

Old Sayings

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

I remember growing up with many of the old sayings that were commonplace within the family. My mother would always encourage me to keep busy and earn my own spending money, which I did by carrying the morning Washington Post newspaper before school. She would say, "NOTHING FALLS INTO THE MOUTH OF A SLEEPING FOX", This means , if you do not work you will not have food. To be on the lighter side of Front Porch this month I will discuss a few of the hundreds of recent and old phrases many of us still or have heard.

On today's side we have a common saying CRIB which means home.

Where is your Crib? Along with that is the saying BUGGIN which is worried. What is bugging you? How could we ever forget the last words of a passenger on Flight 77 on 911 when he said, "LET'S ROLL", when he meant time to go and act. A recent saying is "TAKE A CHILL PILL", meaning to relax and take it easy, instead of being anxious and upset.

Back when I was growing up my grandfather would say "I AM TAKING A CAT NAP", meaning, short sleep period during the day. He would also have several other expressions, such as if I asked him

The Bible also has a part in many of the old sayings such as, "THORN IN MY SIDE", 2 Corinthians 12:7, something to prevent you from doing what you want.

Another Bible phase we hear often is "TAKE SOMEONE UNDER YOUR WING", Luke 12:34, meaning to help out someone in need. "SALT OF THE EARTH", Matthew 5:13, meaning that you are normal people, as Jesus said to his followers this phrase.

I had a friend who was a funeral director, and he would say to me drive careful, I do not want to see you with a "PINE OVERCOAT" meaning a coffin, that was enough to slow me down.

My grandmother would say, "SO COLD THAT THE MILK COWS GIVE ICICLES" meaning that it is very cold outside.

My carpenter friends will like this one "RULE OF THUMB", meaning, that in the 1700's carpenters would use their thumb to measure small areas. Local politicians are sometimes called "BIG WIGS", meaning, in the 1800"s when men wore wigs the most important men wore the biggest wigs. "KNOCK ON WOOD", meaning, in Viking times they believed that spirits live in trees, so by knocking on the wood would bring them good luck.

Read Front Porch from "TOP TO BOTTOM", meaning from cover to cover.

Dedicated to:Judi Smith, Dorothy Mann Morris, Robert Vanvalzah, Jim Mann, Carolyn Allen & Carol Coleman

Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Historian We at FPF call him “Top of the Line” March 2022

A soldier writes home

where he was going, he would say,"SEE A MAN ABOUT A DOG", meaning to leave without reason or that it was his business.

He would often say he had to see the "TOP DOG", meaning a very i m p o r t a n t individual, such as his boss. Many of these sayings have animals in them, "BUSY AS A BEAVER", which is very busy, a beaver will work many hours a day cutting logs with their teeth to build his den.

I will end saying that I wish each and everyone a blessed 2022, "TURN OVER A NEW LEAF", meaning make a fresh start as turning a page of a book.

18

History in Our Backyard

Front porch fredericksburg

By Paul T. Scott

When walking local battlefields it is a strange feeling to know an ancestor tread there. Personal letters chronicling the war draws one near. Hamilton's Crossing is such a place.

My great-great-grandfather, Joseph Fauber Shaner, grew up on a farm in Rockbridge County, Virginia, so named after Natural Bridge which is located there. Citizens of the county formed an artillery unit. Once formed, it became the First and Second Rockbridge Artillery.

Shaner "jined up" as a private in the First.

His battery saw action in most major campaigns of the Eastern Theater. The first big one for him was the Battle of Fredericksburg, bringing this country boy here.

On December 12, 1862, the battery was ordered to Fredericksburg as the Union army crossed the Rappahannock. It arrived south of the city at Hamilton's Crossing and on the 13th, the battery became engaged in a fierce artillery exchange with the Federals.

The battery suffered serious casualties in men and horses. The ground looked like a plowed field from the impact of exploding shells. Soldiers later referred to this as "dead horse hill."

The battery was also engaged Second Battle of during the Fredericksburg. It returned to Hamilton's Crossing and fired on the Federal infantry crossing the river. Returned fire subjected them to even more casualties.

Soldiers' letters home lend a personal touch to hard duty. On March 9, Shaner wrote a letter to his sisters . . . "we are now encamped at Hamilton's Crossing . . . very near where we fought the battle of Fredericksburg. . . . we were

all very sorray to leave that camp (Port Royal) for we were so well fixed . . . we had some big feasts off oysters and fish " On May 7, on a somber note, Shaner writes from "camp . . . near Hamilton's Crossing." "Dear Sisters it is through . . . kind providance that I am spared to again write you a few lines to inform you that I am still well and hearty. we have went through another hard battle . . . one man killed and 4 very badly wounded . . . our men all acted first rate."

On May 11 in "camp near Hamilton's Crossing" Shaner again writes "Dear Sisters we heard awfull news . . . yester evening . . . of the death of Gen Jackson I think it is the wurst news we have heard scince I have bin in the army he died yester evening at Guney's Station . . . his loss will be very great to the army ...."

On June 4, 1863, in "camp near Hamilton's Crossing," Shaner writes "Dear Mother as I have not written to you or Father scince I left home I will try and write you both a few lines this morning we are still encamped near Hamilton's crossing we got orders yesterday evening to cook 2 days . . . rations and to be ready to march at a moment's warning and I think . . . that we will march at any time."

Shaner's words were foreboding, as in several weeks they would be in battle at Gettysburg.

Paul Scott is a member of the Board of Directors of Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, Inc. For more information, see www.cvbt.org.

What’s in A Park? tidbits of archaeology By jon gerlach stones were quarried in the immediate vicinity and not at Government Island.

One interesting find seemed at first glance to be just a chunk of rusty preserved iron metal. When X-rayed, a well-p alloy jaw harp (aka Jew's harp) appeared inside. Musical instruments, particularly harmonica parts, are common finds on household sites, giving us a glimpse into simpler times when music was created on the spot, an active pursuit vastly different from the digital streaming we consume today.

Riverfront Park will open fully this April, save for the permanent stage and restrooms to be added later. When you walk around the park, and watch the children play, think about the people who lived, worked and played here long, long ago. The story of this place goes back hundreds of years.

Recently, several areas of the park were excavated by Dovetail Cultural Resource Group as part of the construction project. Over 10,000 artifacts came to light! Let's start on the surface on work our way down.

You've maybe heard about The Mound (see the November 2021 issue of FPF magazine). Here, archaeologists uncovered the skeletal remains of Civil War soldiers, and evidence of much earlier Native American occupations. Today, part of the mound is preserved as a prominent feature in the park.

Looking elsewhere in the park, some areas were selected for archaeological work, based on early maps, insurance records, deeds and photographs.

First, the topsoil was stripped away using a smooth-bladed backhoe. This exposed the remains of several buildings. Next, the archaeologists went deeper, using hand tools such as shovels, trowels, dental picks and paint brushes. Some incredible discoveries came to light.

Remains were found of the RoweGoolrick House, built around 1750 (pictured). It was demolished in 1973 for a parking lot. Part of it survived: the northeast foundation of the house was uncovered, including remains of wooden support posts. Dendrochronology (tree ring dating) is being done on the posts, so we hope to have firm dates soon. The foundation was built of locally quarried sandstone. Many of these stones have now been repurposed into the stone seating you see positioned around the park. The wayside panel calls it "Aquia sandstone, locally quarried from Government Island on Aquia Creek in Stafford County, Virginia." However, given the nearby sandstone quarries in operation along the Rappahannock River in the mid 1700s (see the December 2020 issue of FPF magazine), it's far more likely that these

Also explored was the brick-lined interior of the Ferneyhough Ice House, circa 1832. Before modern refrigeration, ice was cut into blocks during the winter and stored in deep subterranean chambers, beneath layers of straw and sawdust. This kept the meats, milk, and butter cool during warmer months. Of course, the ice melted away a long time ago at Ferneyhough's, but the icehouse survived, giving us a rare glimpse into this vital underground facility.

There is so much more to learn about the history and archaeology of Riverfront Park. Check out the park's wayside panels, and follow the latest at Dovetail's website: www.dovetailcrg.com/category/fredericks burg-riverfront-park.

So what's in a Park? Here, a fun and fascinating place that still plays a central role in our vibrant community.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach serves on Fredericksburg's City Council, Ward Two. Photo courtesy Dovetail Cultural Resource Group at www.dovetailcrg.com/category/frederick sburg-riverfront-park

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

Contact us about donating collections of documents and photographs

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Mental Health conversation about eating disorders

By Debbie Seacrest body, perhaps in attempt to gain control or manage emotional pain. However, my friends have been treated differently when disclosing their struggles with binge eating.

As I've progressed in my eating disorder recovery, I have chosen to be very open with friends, family and others about my struggles. I have dealt with anorexia, and I have several very close friends who have histories of disordered eating, specifically binge eating. Discussing our challenges and gaining a better understanding of each other's experiences has been enlightening.

Validated By Restraint As is typical for those with Anorexia, I sometimes restrict my food intake, denying my body the nutrients it needs. I tried to eat the least amount possible to satiate the hunger.

This restriction, unfortunately, is often encouraged by a cultural prioritization of thinness and "restraint."

They are complimented for resulting weight loss or commended for their "selfcontrol."

For those battling an eating disorder, this can be a highly dangerous reinforcement. They are denying their bodies the food that they need - a behavior that can be difficult to change on its own, let alone with the added reinforcement of impressing others.

It's important to note that there are people who will not encourage disordered eating behaviors. There were those who comforted me, encouraged me to seek professional help and acknowledged that I was not to blame for my struggles with anorexia.

Stigmatized For "Lack Of Control" In theory, Binge Eating Disorder and anorexia are similar; both conditions involve not listening to cues from your

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Some of the same people who offer compassion and support to those grappling with anorexia may view binge eating as a character flaw that can be "fixed" with enough self-control and effort. My friends often felt as though as the empathy and understanding I received was nonexistent for them, as their disorders involved bingeing rather than restricting.

This disparity has often discouraged friends from sharing their experiences.

One friend observed her family rally around an aunt struggling with anorexia.

When she shared her diagnosis of Binge Eating Disorder with those same people, however, she was shunned and humiliated.

She watched as her family encouraged her aunt's recovery process, while ignoring her experiences and progress. She finally found a therapist and dietitian who helped her with thoughts and behaviors she's been plagued with for years.

Confronting Biases As I learned of my friends' experiences, I was inspired to confront my own biases about health and appearance.

When I shared my struggles with others, I was always sure to specify that I had been diagnosed with anorexia. People of all sizes and shapes can have anorexia, but most people attribute a specific thin "look" to the disorder. I feared that my size and shape did not match that stereotype or convey that I struggled with restricting, and I didn't want people to assume that my behaviors involved bingeing. This fear highlighted my own internalized bias: I was open to be being perceived as someone with an eating disorder, but I didn't want to be perceived as someone who binges.

This perspective, I realized, did not match up with the support I gave my friends. I tell people I know who binge eat that I love and support them, and I note that their binge eating has no bearing on our relationship. I point out that they aren't "wrong" for bingeing, that I don't judge, that this is not a weakness of

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character. They are not at all defined by these characteristics - nor do they have to hide them and feel ashamed.

So, I've come to realize that if I truly support my friends, and say that I don't judge them, it is critical for me that I confront my internalized beliefs. As I strive to promote understanding and to reduce the stigma associated with eating disorders, I only mention my diagnosis if it's relevant. If I say that I am recovering from an eating disorder and do not specify which one, people will realize that the points I share apply to anyone with an eating disorder, rather than just those who restrict.

ble at Availa n.com Amazo

Changing The Conversation I invite you, too, to consider your beliefs as I continue to contemplate and address mine. Would you react differently to someone sharing their struggles with an eating disorder based on their diagnosis? Based on their size? Based on their habits? If so, why?

Everyone deserves compassion and support as they live with and recover from eating disorders. This support requires a delicate balance of encouraging recovery-minded behaviors without passing judgment on the behaviors they may have now. I hope that by sharing our lived experiences and misguided judgments, we can start to shift the dialogue.

Dr. Debbie Seacrest is a math professor who works to identify and challenge beliefs abouteating disorders. debbie.seacrest@gmail.com.

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

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

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

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

Have You Tried Acupuncture?

Emancipated Patients medical education

By Patrick Neustatter, MD There's a lot to being a good doctors.

Call Now to Schedule 540.847.6985 AcupunctureFredericksburg.com

Desirable attributes include problem solving, empathy, being respectful, a good listener /communicator, conscientiousness, emotionally stable, able to work in a team and of course the smarts to learn about illnesses and what to do about them.

To get to be a doctor however, you have to get accepted to medical school - and from what I gather from talking to the pre-med students we've had volunteering at the Moss Clinic, that is a punishing and wildly competitive business that seems to select for dogged determination and an ability to pass exams, rather than these touchy-feely attributes that are so important once you get there.

Herculean Labor To get into medical school you have to have an above average GPA. Do well in the MCATS (medical college admission testing). Then apply to between 15 and 25 "carefully selected schools" which requires going through the AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) application process submitting your work and activity record. A record that needs to include clinical exposure, non-clinical community work, and ideally other hobbies like playing an instrument to show you are a well-rounded person, several letters of recommendation. And the all-important autobiographical personal statement. You may also be asked to write individualized essays for specific schools.

Currently we have Cameron, a pre-med student at Germanna who has been shadowing me as I see patients (so having to put up with my pontificating about medical "fascinoma's"). And Ravi, a student from University of Mary Washington, working as a scribe (needed because we dinosaurs of the medical world are incapable of learning to navigate the not-very user-friendly, Allscripts, electronic medical records program that we have). Both are doing this as part of their clinical exposure.

Then Ravi is doing an extra postgraduate year in college and Cameron applying to join the rescue squad - to further "buff" his resumes.

The Irony The real irony is that all these dedicated, bright, wannabe's would be

wonderful doctors so far as I can see. But only about a third will get into medical school (in 2021, admission rate was 36 percent according to AAMC data).

This, in a country that has a drastic shortage of doctors of all kinds, where the population is growing (it has gone up 21percent since 1997) and the gray revolution of people living longer is providing greater need.

AAMC predicts a likely shortfall of up to 122,000 by 2032 - "at least half of that shortage is expected to be among primary care physicians" notes the Washington Post (graduating doctors are gravitating toward well-paying specialties like orthopedics and interventional radiology to pay off the crippling debt they accumulate - average for 2020 was $207,000 and change).

The bottle neck seems to be residency programs - as the number of residency programs determines how many medical students can enter the system.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services pays hospitals to hire residents. But in 1997 Congress passed a Balanced Budget Act and that froze funding for residency programs at 1996 levels.

You may have experienced this doctor shortage by finding it is virtually impossible get to see an actual doctor instead you get an appointment with a physician's assistant or nurse practitioner "extender."

So, part of it is a political problem. But there's still the issue of people getting in to medical school will be those who are dogged, and good exam takers - not necessarily the characteristics to make the best doctors.

All further arguments for being an emancipated patient, and being able to be in charge of your own healthcare.

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

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Smart Labor exercise for health & longevity

by Christine THOMPSON Living longer and healthier is dependent on many factors that are out of our control, but there are a few of these factors that we do have control over and, with a little time and effort, can improve our chances of having quality of life as we age. The physical exercises that have been shown to correlate to longevity and improving our chances of healthy aging have mostly to do with balance and flexibility.

Here's how you can determine your "longevity score" with some simple tests. Practice these exercises daily to improve your score and your chances of living a long and healthy life.

1. The Sit and Rise Test Standing in bare feet, cross your legs, then sit down slowly without using your hands. Then, again without using your hands, stand back up.

Scoring: You start with 10 points.

You lose a point each time you use a hand or knee. You lose a ½ point if you wobble.

8 - 10 points means you are fit and fab and probably going to live a long, healthy life! 6 - 7.5 points means you have twice the chance of NOT living a long and healthy life, 3.5 - 5.5 points means you have three and a half times the risk of NOT living a long, healthy life A Brazilian study was conducted of over 2000 people between 50 and 80 years old. Participants' health was followed up for a number of years.

It was found that their initial score on this test was a powerful predictor of later health and how long they lived.

2. The Balance Test The one-leg balancing test is proposed as a screening of the functional ability of the brain. A person should be able to maintain this balance for more than 20 seconds.

Kyoto University researchers performed this test on 1,300 participants, both men and women, aged around 67

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years. They were then tested for brain health. More than 30% of the subjects who had trouble balancing themselves for this length of time were found to have blood vessel disorders that can lead to stroke.

3. The Chair Test Tests quadriceps strength, balance and endurance, all necessary for health and longevity.

Set a timer for 1 minute and stand in front of a chair. Sit down and stand up as many times as you can before the timer goes off.

Men with the lowest risk of early death did more than 39 of these movements in a minute, while those with the highest risk did just 22 in a minute; The best performing women did more than 36 in a minute while the worst did just 21 in a minute. 4 In addition to balance and flexibility exercises, there is a growing body of evidence that aerobic exercise is very important for brain health and antiaging.

A new study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has found that exercise can slow down or even stop the degenerative changes of Alzheimer's Disease, even among those with high risk factors. Specifically, they found the people who exercised at moderate intensity at least 150 minutes per week showed reduction or no trace of these degenerative changes in the brain.So get moving!

Christine Thompson is a Doctor of Chiropractic. She is the CEO & Founder of Whole Health Solutions Inc. 434 Bridgewater Street.whole-health.net

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Life Coaching Managing Yourself in time

By Marcia Grimsley The world renowned Psychiatrist, Dr. Carl Jung wrote, "Time concerns are like a disease and can make us sick like one."

There is really no time management, management. only self-m Best selling author and Cheryl Life Coach, Richardson, counsels us to notice where our time goes by looking at how we prioritize our time.

She advises to make a list of changes we want to see in the way we spend time.

Finally, she instructs us to fearlessly create a plan to reach our new goals.

I like to begin new client coaching sessions by asking them, "What is holding you back from living the life you want?

What are the beliefs and fears locking you into a lifestyle that feels limiting and controlling, instead of one that puts you in charge?" These questions can be a bit challenging for individuals who have never questioned themselves.

However, once clients begin this process, they start to experience personal insights.

Clients usually become very comfortable and understand how helpful this can be.

Next, I work with my clients to explore how to live a balanced life. A balanced life includes time for work or school, time for valued relationships, time for taking care of your health and wellbeing, time for community outreach, time for fun and adventure, and time for your spiritual practices.

So, are you willing to look at what is keeping you from living a balanced life?

Living out of balance, such as working too many hours or depending upon one person to meet all your needs, is a recipe for disaster, both physically and emotionally. If you loose your job or this significant other, you will find that you may not have another support system to fall back on.

We can make some changes to improve our use of time and live a balanced life: 1. Begin by releasing rather than adding Start by taking unwanted commitments and unwanted relationships off your plate. Be willing to say, no thank you!

Thoughtfully consider that always saying yes makes you a nice person, or brings you approval from others. This is not necessarily true! Make a list of 5

things you are willing to say "no" to right now.

Do listen to your intuition and follow your heart when choosing time commitments. Be courageous!

2. Create an absolute "yes" list…Cheryl Richardson reminds us to pick activities, relationships, and goals, we truly want in our life. Create a week- by-week and a month-by-month plan to achieve the results you desire. Carefully choose how you will spend your time. Guilt can be a major saboteur. Ask for support or help from family, friends, or a professional, if needed.

3. Get comfortable with sometimes doing nothing or resting You were born valuable, and that is your birth rite.

Doing and achieving are worthwhile goals that can add to your life. However, you are more than anything you can achieve. Do not confuse financial abundance, education, or worldly success with self-worth.

Remember, if we do not pilot our own plane, something or someone else will. Be aware of your motivations, be honest with yourself, and watch your patterns. Take charge of your life. Create and live a high quality life!

"If this was the last day of your life, would you be spending it the way you are choosing to do so now?" ~ Oprah Winfrey

Marcia Grimsley, BA, MS, is a Professional Life Coach She offers Personal, Career & Business and Health & Welllbeing Coaching Contact her at 540-785-4104 or www.marciaslifecoaching.com

Auto Known Better A fish tale

By Rim Vining 907 Princess Anne Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

Some of you know me and some don't but trust me, I have a closet full of tinfoil hats. So on a scale of one to ten… let's talk fish!

Only Detroit and Madison Avenue could market sports cars named after fish and have the drivers think they look cool…

Corvette Stingray!

Plymouth Barracuda! AMC Marlin! Other countries gave it a shot as well… Opel Manta, Hyundai Tiberon or perhaps the Perodua Kelisa from Malaysia! Look that one up.

www.donatelifevirginia.org

The summers of my adolescence were spent working in a family restaurant in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware that my grandparents started in the 1930's. Yes, the same summer vacation locale that our current president Joe Biden frequents and yes, I waited on both he and his father back in the day. And for all you art lovers, Rehoboth was also the summer home and inspirational sanctuary for Howard Pyle the patriarch of the modern illustrator.

Think of his pupil N.C. Wyeth and Treasure Island.

It is a wonderful seaside town with all the colorful characters one might expect including the local fish mongers and merchants.

Being a beach resort seafood was always on the menu so even a kid from the city learned the basics: scaling fish, shucking clams & oysters, cleaning soft shell crabs and learning that seafood should not be cooked to death!

Tender, moist and flakey is preferred.

Having some knowledge of the basics, imagine my surprise to find one of our local food purveyors offering a most novel way of marketing fish.

If you have ever been to a butcher's shop they almost always have a "cuts of meat" poster on the wall so you can educate yourself before buying. Leg, shank, shoulder, butt, hams ribs, tenderloin, flank, skirt, etc. Nowhere on the cow is there a cut of beef called a London broil, that's a recipe. So have you ever seen a "cuts of fish" poster? A fish is scaled and cleaned then either baked whole, (head on or off) filleted, or cut into steaks and that's pretty much it or at least that's what I thought.

Evidently farm raised salmon now has "cuts of fillet" including loins, bellies and bites! You can buy the whole filet which includes all these choice cuts for about $10.99 per pound.

Sold separately the choice belly will cost you a few dollars more and the bigger side up from the belly now called the loin adds a few more dollars as well but wait… the loin sold without the skin has now reached a miraculous $18.99 per pound!

Do yourself a favor and buy a knife.

Personally I'm working on the fish bites marketing angle. (not angler) This is that tiny end of the filet like the small bits of beef the butcher sells as "stew beef." Will fish bites be the new "wings"?

Spice them up and batter them? Deep fry with aioli? Reconstitute and bake up some fish tots for a new twist on fish and chips?

They have outdone themselves. We are being trolled.

Which brings me back to the fish story wondering if there is natural association between a car's name and its odor. After 20 years of restoring old cars and fifty driving British tin I think there is. Jaguars and MGs definitely have a wet tweed essence some find quite alluring while Corvette Stingrays lean towards Jade East, Old Spice and Lucky Strikes. Old Mustangs have their own "parked in the barn" quality as well. As for the Malaysian Kelisa… not sure but as adults they eat the other fish.

I guess the all electric Sushi is next.

Rim Vining, humorist, friend and a devoted community volunteer autoknownbetter@gmail.com

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Art in Burg Art Galleries in March “Start With Green” FCCA, 813 Sophia ST Th-F Fri, 12-4 4p; Sat 11-4 4, Sun, 1-4 4p ~Valerie Lecea

“Greenhouse Ready for Spring”, Seija Martin @ BSG “All Members March” Brush Strokes Gallery Opening , March 4, 5-9 9p, 824 Caroline St. Thursday- Sun 11am - 5 pm.

March exhibit features a number of creations that may elicit thoughts about the value of relationship and treasure of friendship. Gary the Goose in Bev Coates' painting seems to be right at home in the midst of a colony of seagulls, while Lois Baird's "Tundra Swans at Pea Island" depicts her subjects' renowned quality of coupling. Likewise, Marianna Smith's "Flower Picking" captures a moment of friends sharing the joy of spring, while Carol Waite shows the promise of more to come with the blossoms of "Spring Is Sprung." Nancy Williams' "Golden Light at the River" and Seija Martin's "Greenhouse Ready for Spring" depict scenes and sites that we would want to share with special people. In addition, the vintage sewing machine featured in Penny A Parrish's "Minnesota" may remind some folks of gifts lovingly crafted by a mom in yesteryear, while other artwork highlights objects that we'd like to share with friends or family, including Norma Woodward's "Strawberries", Stacy Gerise's "My Guinness." ~Collette Caprara

“March Madness” All Member Show Opening Reception First Friday, February 4--6 6-9 9pm Artful Dimensions, 923 Caroline The term that has become synonymous with basketball is defined as a state of frenzied or chaotic activity. As artists, we understand this mindset, when we let loose, ignore the rules, work passionately with no sense of time, stop following the plan, and embrace a stage of unknowing until we see what emerges.

March is a wonderful month for madness.

We are on the cusp of new growth, knowing we will soon see changes, not sure of what they will be, and anxious for the buds to open. ~ Sally Cooney Anderson

“Ramblings" Collection of New Works by Artist Anastasia Camarca Opening Reception, First Friday March 4 , 6-8 8p Art First, 824 Caroline ST Thursday-S Sunday, 11a-5 5p

“Blatant”, Anastasia Camarca, @Art First

"Ramblings" was created out of a desire to dive into a style that Anastasia Camarca has grown fond of recently. For the last year or so, Anastasia has been experimenting with text in her art while trying to branch into the more conceptual side of the art making process. Like technical skill, conceptual artwork comes with its own challenges. Having to make unique and distinct art only becomes more and more difficult as time goes on. If there is an idea for a piece of artwork, it likely already exists. .. ~Jennifer Galvin The Artists' Alliance “Black And White And” Works by Photographer Rob Rudick Opening Friday, March 11 100 Taylor St, Suite 101 Colonial Beach Gallery open Sat-S Sun, 11a -5 5p Rob's show is a return to his original roots as a black and white photographer. Though his recent work has featured color, he never abandoned his original interest in black and white.

Also, he sometimes incorporates a splash of color into these images.

The show runs through April 3.

AA members are also displaying their painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and wood furniture. Carl and Joyce Thor continue to sell their art in the adjoining galleries. ~ Rob Rudick

“A Light Touch”Pete Morelewicz,@ Sunken Well Tavern Melinda Crocker, Book Signing Feature Artist Kathleen Moran Canal Quarter Arts First Friday, Marhc 4, 9a-2 2p ~Jeannie Ellis

Courtney Burke & Pete Morelewicz Opening First Friday PONSHOP, 712 Caroline Street New artist Courtney Burke premiere exhibition featuring hand drawn pyrography on wood., 5-9pTheir monthly City Scroll project continues in the studio w/ guest artist PrintJazz (6-7pm).

“Calm Chaos” Works by Pete Morelewicz Opening Reception, March 10, 6-9 9p Sunken Well Tavern 720 Littlepage Fredericksburg artist Pete Morelewicz (aka Print Jazz) brings his distinctive graphic canvases to the Sunken Well Tavern. "Calm Chaos" explores the moments within moments. On the surface, each piece is composed of a dynamic, geometrical structure, often suffused with stark light that heightens the intensity.

But beneath all of that surface energy, there is a serenity that permeates each scene. They are inhabitable moments of tranquility. Within the freneticism of our everyday lives, perhaps we yearn to occupy these rare moments, however fleeting they may be.

"Romance, Slow Dance”, Courtney Burke, @PONSHOP

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

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“Winter Trees Gulf of Finland”, Penny A Parrish

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“Sunrise Princess Anne St”, Lynn Abbott

Artist on Site Saturdays

Hats Off To Jinxie A celebration of local civic ladies bY wendy migdal There was a time when no woman would set foot outside her home without a hat. That time has long since disappeared, but on March 20, Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc will revisit it with a tribute to a local woman, Barbara Forbush. The event, called "Hats Off to Jinxie: A Celebration of Local Civic Ladies" will be held at the Freedom Tea Society on Caroline Street.

On that day, models dressed in midcentury vintage attire will sport several examples from Barbara's (or Jinxie's, as she was known throughout her life) extensive hat collection. Jinxie passed away in September 2021 at the age of 91.

A lifelong resident of Fredericksburg, she was extensively involved in civic organizations: the Garden Club of Virginia, the Mary Washington Hospital Auxiliary, the Stafford County Historical Society, and of course, HFFI, to name just a few. She also established the Forbush Family Legacy Fund at The Community Foundation after her husband passed away. The fund has supported even more organizations,

including the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank, the Friends of the Rappahannnock, and several more.

Her hat collection came to the attention of HFFI through one of its members, Mayo Carter, who is the grateful recipient of the collection. Jinxie's daughters wanted their mother's hats to go to a good home, and found the right person in Carter, a history and vintage clothes aficionado. Carter then came up with the idea of a fashion show to honor Jinxie and her involvement in the community. As the name of the event implies, it will not only pay tribute to Jinxie, but other women in Fredericksburg whose contributions deserve to be remembered.

The Freedom Society was chosen for the venue partly because of the role it plays in working to end human trafficking.

Though human trafficking affects men and boys as well, the majority of its victims are women and girls. As this event coincides with Women's History Month, it

seemed an appropriate venue to honor a woman who did so much for her community.

The event itself will harken back to the fashion shows of the past, featuring a threetier mini high tea.

There will be two seatings of 30 people each. A slide show and lecture will highlight n o t a b l e Fredericksburg women going back to the 1700s.

And so, through a series of events, these hats from the 1950s and 60s will bring people together on a Sunday in March 2022 and help them connect to the past. Carter has found that artifacts such as these not only provide a way to learn about the past, they also seem to have a unique power to emotionally transport the viewer. She recalls showing her collection . "When the older men saw those cigarette boxes, they all had to touch them. And they could recite the slogan, 'Lucky Strike Goes to War." But for HFFI and Fredericksburg, a town that honors its history, the past is never very far away.

Wendy Migdal is a free lance writer and a HFFI Volunteer

"Hats Off to Jinxie: A Celebration of Local Civic Ladies" HFFI Tribute Event Fashion Show & High Tea March 20 Freedom Tea Society, 1015 Caroline St

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The Bowling Green Scene Spring has sprung By amy bayne

Spring has Sprung Spring is in the air, and the town of Bowling Green is waking up to fresh foods, finds, and finishing touches. Not only do we have new storefronts dotting our cozy downtown this season, but events in March are poised to inspire and delight. Bowling Green will be poppin' color and creativity in March of 2022.

On March 6, The Painted Horse Gallery, located at 114 N. Main Street, is offering a special class for hard-working educators. Finding Joy is a collaborative and healing paint project using mixed media to create one large canvas. To paint, facilitators Alice Stone-Brooks and Deborah Howard will guide you with word prompts to help you express your experiences on canvas. Each participant will sign and receive a printed image of the final project. The painting you create will hang in the gallery for one month, and then it will be donated to the place of the group's choice. There will be refreshments, free gifts, and 10% off at the shop.

In addition to three make-andtake workshops in March, The Painted Horse will also host its first juried invitational exhibit: Spring Break. Artists solicitations have been open since the beginning of February and will close on March 12, 2022. The cost to enter three pieces is $25. Jurors for Spring Break include Barbara Croson, accomplished scenic designer and Painted Horse partner; Joseph Di Bella, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Art at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg; and Professor Bob Worthy, Assistant Curator for the Frederick Gallery at the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts. Prizes include a $300 first place, $150 second place, and $50 third place, as well as non-monetary honorable mention

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categories. Spring Break will open on March 26th and hang through April 30, 2022. Find out more about the exhibit and all workshops at thepaintedhorse.org.

The Dainty Chic Roadside Stand, located at 115 Chase Street, will host Spring at the Stand on March 26, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Owner Emily Schantz writes, "Spring is just around the corner, so bring your girlfriends for some shopping with the best local ladies around. Spring at the Stand will be a market to celebrate spring and things beautiful and bohemian. For opening day, I will have some of my favorite local gals joining me at the Stand bringing their amazing wares along with a few furry friends. We will have great surprises for you too! Did I mention an adult easter egg hunt? See ya'll March 26th."

Keep your eye out for the Bowling Green Farmer's Market Opening Day in late March or early April. There will be further agricultural and cultural events throughout the spring. Come enjoy a sunny Saturday this spring in your closest happening hamlet in the heart of Caroline County. We're Bowling Green, Virginia, and we've got something for everyone.

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

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Cover Artist

Deaf Culture Digital Library crrl/Library of Va collaboration

Collette Caprara

by Sean Bonney

Since experiencing as a child the majestic world of book illustrations, Collette has loved drawing and art.

Though she later majored in English and Philosophy as an undergrad and received her Masters' degree in Philosophy, throughout the years, she always looked for opportunities to take drawing and painting classes offered by schools and community organizations.

To finance travel abroad during her college years, she painted murals in her home town of Elmira, New York-at a swimming pool, in the pediatrics ward of a local hospital, and at a little boutique that was the first business venture of nowfamous Tommy Hilfiger, who then attended her high school.

For some years, she placed painting on the "back burner" as her life became busy with the greatest creation of all-her son.

But after moving to Fredericksburg in 1995, Collette met artist and educator Johnny Johnson whom

she credits with reigniting her pursuit of art.

At first, she worked primarily in watercolor, finding it a wonderful medium for capturing the transforming quality of nature. Currently, she works in both watercolor and acrylic.

She says, "Typically, I paint and draw from photographs of places that our family has visited, attempting to convey the heart and character of a scene, as I experienced it. I am truly grateful for the gift of this world-its depth, and beauty, and message of love."

Collette is member of Brush Strokes Gallery, a writer living in the Fredericksburg area.

Central Rappahannock Regional Library has partnered with the Library of Virginia to launch the Virginia Deaf Culture Digital Library, or VA DCDL (deaflibva.org). This resource is the result of a two-year collaboration between CRRL Access Services Librarian Babak Zarin and the Library of Virginia.

digital format Access to information regardless of location Assistance for Virginia residents, for library staff in the local public library systems, for academic librarians in colleges and universities, and for staff in other Virginia libraries.

Zarin had been contacted in 2019 by ReBecca Bennett, who at the time was serving as the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Outreach Coordinator at the disAbility Resource Center in Fredericksburg. She felt that the local community could benefit from a Deaf Culture Digital Library similar to one in Maryland and wanted to know whether the local library system would be interested in starting one.

The VA DCDL invites the collaboration of Virginia's Deaf community through feedback, referrals to additional resources, and submissions of Deaf culture events across the Commonwealth, with lengthier conversations and meetings for those interested currently planned to begin in 2022. For more information about VA DCDL, please contact Babak Zarin at babak.zarin@crrl.org or Nan Carmack at nan.carmack@lva.virginia.gov.

Zarin brought the idea of addressing this unmet need to the Library of Virginia's Director of Library Development and Networking, Nan Carmack, and, after a two-year development period, the VA DCDL was launched.

"Deaf culture digital libraries allow for vital community resources and Deaf culture to be shared with relative ease, and can help foster greater connection between public libraries and members of the Deaf and hard of hearing community," said Zarin. "I continue to be surprised at how often this particular community gets overlooked in library services. As a 2019 article in Forbes magazine noted, ASL (American Sign Language) is currently the third-m most commonly studied language in colleges and universities and the third-most frequently requested language for court interpretation."

Virginia's Deaf Culture Digital Library is made possible by funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and was created within the context of a federally funded Library Science and Technology Act project that provides a user-friendly web development platform to Virginia libraries that need extra support.

Sean Bonney is the Community Engagement Manager. .Reach him at community.manager@crrl.org

Here are some of the things Virginia's Deaf Culture Digital Library offers: Resources and information related to Deaf culture A collection of Deaf resources in front porch fredericksburg

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Companions 1 Flea, 2 Fleas, 3 fLEAS...oH NO! by gerri reid, dvm

Spring is coming! Many of us will be happy to see more sunshine rather than snow! We will begin to see more outdoor events. It is time for more walks in the park and more playtime outside.

But with all this outdoor exposure, we must remember to protect our pets from the environmental parasites that lurk around us…Fleas!

Fleas are the most common external parasite found on dogs. They survive by feeding on your dog's blood.

The presence of fleas causes your pet to chew and scratch at its skin repeatedly.

This can lead to hair loss and reddened, irritated skin. Fleas can also transmit other parasites such as tapeworms.

Understandings fleas is the key to treating and preventing infestations.

When pet owners find fleas on their pet, the first thing they do is treat the pet with some kind of topical flea prevention. Or bath the pet in flea/tick shampoo. We need to understand that this is not all that needs to treated. Educating ourselves about the life cycle of fleas will better help us treat for fleas.

Interesting fact: Fleas spend 95% of their life OFF the pet and in the environment!

Therefore, knowing this, don't forget to treat your house and all bedding/blankets. You can treat your home with flea powders or flea bombs but be sure to read the instructions and use as directed. You can also opt to have a professional pest control company treat your home. It takes approximately 3 months to successfully treat and get rid of fleas. So pack your patience and be consistent when treating not only your home but also your pet.

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When it comes to your pet, choosing the right treatment is important. Flea/tick shampoos can be a quick fix to rid your pet of visible fleas but can be very drying to the skin. Over-thecounter topical flea/tick preventions are helpful but beware of those labeled "all natural" or "organic". Many of these products can be harmful to your pet.

Remember, when treating your pet(s), you must treat all the pets in the house including cats.

There are products that are sold over-the-counter that are effective when treating your dog.

Products such as Advantix or Frontline are sold at Petsmart. These products are applied topically or directly on your pet's skin between the shoulder blades. It is recommended to apply it every 30 days but if your pet is having a flea issue then it is recommended to apply it every 21 days. You can also contact your Veterinarian for a recommendation for flea/tick prevention.

We all will be happy to have warmer days coming. It's time for our dogs to get outside and a enjoy a good run thru the yard or park. But with all this outdoor fun, pet owners need to remember to protect your dog against the #1 parasite…FLEAS! It is highly recommended to treat your pet monthly with flea/tick prevention but don't forget your house! Hello Spring…Goodbye Fleas!

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

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THE POETRY MAN

Astrology & You Planetary agents of change

By Frank Fratoe

By Dianne Bachman

Hidden But There Often cities overwhelm us when our streetlight haze blocks out stars at night, and not even wind pulsing can clear the human-smog of traffic so persistent.

sense it coming and it begins to make a lasting impact long before it arrives. The same is true as it moves along. We are somehow changed.

So, for the past few years and on into the mid-2020s, we have several major planetary aspects coming into influence. We have the US Pluto return, we have the Saturn/Uranus square, and we have the upcoming conjunction between Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces.

Let's break these three influences down and then take a look at how we can make some deep and meaningful use of these processes.

Yet constellations keep encircling high above us to show figures of magic, and running through them is a long celestial-river people call the Milky Way. Somehow not very far off there are forests hidden no one sees beyond dusk, and a silver-cove is near where you can still press the sand under your feet.. .

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

Though Pluto had not yet been discovered back in 1774, this little planetoid nonetheless existed and was sitting at 27 degrees Capricorn. Pluto takes about 248 years to complete a trip around the zodiac wheel and on February 20, 2022, this return occurred. Any planetary transit is like a wave; you can

First, Saturn and Uranus have been coming in and out of a ninetydegree angle since late 2020. They have been exactly 90 degrees apart on February 17, 2021, June 14, 2021, December 24, 2021, and will come together again in October 2022. Saturn is the planet of responsibility, structure, keeping things intact, and tradition. Uranus is the planet of rebellion, individuality, innovation, sudden change, and the greater community. This square, or 90-degree angle creates a tension between the two planetary energies. We have tradition, rules, and structure coming into conflict with a force that tends to blow the old apart, to make way for innovation, change, and rebellion.

Secondly, we have the US Pluto return as mentioned above. Plutonian energy goes deep and seeks truth. I read somewhere that Pluto is the ultimate BS detector. It is about transformation, resurrection, bringing about endings and decay to make way for new growth. My image of Pluto is the Phoenix. Crash, burn, rise, repeat. It is part of a natural cycle that is not always pretty or easy but takes us from one way of being and thinking to another.

Thirdly, Jupiter will be making a conjunction with Neptune in the sign of Pisces. The last time this occurred was in 1857, so this one is a big deal because it will be the only one in our lifetime.

Neptune and Jupiter come together about every 13 years in different signs, but Neptune in Pisces is perhaps the saving grace in this astrological stormy weather.

Neptune in Pisces can bring dreams, imagination, and a sense of the numinous, the spiritual. It is the spirit of oneness.

Jupiter's influence expands and provides the vehicle for learning. This conjunction will be exact on April 12, 2022, at 9:34 a.m., though we may begin to feel the

influence in early March.

So, our country (and much of the world, for that matter) is reflecting a strong Plutonian influence. Infrastructure is breaking down, the economy is taking some hard licks, and we have been under the heavy weight of a pandemic. Our country is also feeling this Saturnian/Uranian energy with the huge divide between political parties. The old rules are breaking down and rebellion of sorts is afoot. As bleak as this sounds, we can each choose to take the high road (Neptune/Jupiter) and figure out how to listen to each other rather than shout and yell and point fingers. Of course, with Neptune there is always the chance for escapism and delusion, but if we keep ourselves grounded and awake, to think rather than react, we just might be able to use this tight spot and turn it into change that deeply benefits each of us.

And here are the astrological weather conditions for March: March 2: the New Moon will be in Pisces, a good day for meditation, connecting with your spiritual side, imagining, and dreaming.

March 5: Sun in Pisces conjunct Jupiter, emphasis is on confidence and being open to new ideas March 6: Mars and Venus enter the sign of Aquarius, supporting new relationship cycles, independence, and respect for individuality March 9: Mercury enters the sign of Pisces, giving our thoughts and communications a more sensitive and imaginative flavor.

March 13: Sun conjunct Neptune in Pisces makes intuition strong, along with greater capacity for empathy and a wonderful time to honor spiritual traditions.

March 18: Full Moon in Virgo, when the focus is the balancing act of getting it together. There is a fine balance between being too fuzzy and unfocused or on the other hand, too self-critical. A suitable time for honest assessment regarding our hopes and dreams and how we might operationalize them.

March 27: Mercury emerges from watery Pisces into fiery Aries. Courage, direct communication, assertiveness, and move forward with ideas that have been germinating under the influence of Pisces.

Diane Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at FourwindsastrologyLLC@gmail.com Mandala by Carl Jung

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Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

From My Studio Window I have a small (6"x4") sketchbook that I keep in my purse for those times when I didn't plan to sketch so didn't have my regular equipment with me.

Here is a little one I did from the window of my studio at Libertytown Arts Workshop.

It's the back and side of the little red house on William Street that faces the end of Washington Avenue.

I'm often attracted by roof lines and utility poles. This is a good example of how to draw foliage without much detail. The little boxes along the bottom are decorative cement blocks in the wall next to the parking lot. This lot is currently filled with workmen's trucks and machinery for the construction on the site of the former Free Lance-Star building. There have been a lot of changes around this little house lately but it has managed to stay the same. For now. My sketchbooks often include images of ghosts-structures, trees, etc. that are no longer there and I don't always know when I've sketched something for the last time. I'm looking forward to warmer days when I can once again be out on the streets recording life in our town. Join me!

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

Give a Child Something to Think About

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

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810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

THE SOUND OF SILENCE HOW THE JANUARY 3RD SNOWSTORM WON

By Chuck Archer studios and was nearly taken out by a huge branch falling in our front yard. A second large branch fell minutes later. At one point, Ted and I went outside as the blinding snow was coming down. All we could hear was the sound of branches snapping everywhere.

Uh, right??

There is one thing you rarely find in a radio station. Silence. At almost all times there is sound happening somewhere. Music or commercials playing

11:15am. A small part in the generator was to blame for two days of silence. A part, of course, that was hard to track down due to #supplychainissues. It just goes to show that no matter how prepared you think you might be there is always

By noon, 2 fully grown pine trees fell onto our parking lot. We would witness a third fall into the roof of our studios.

Chuck, Ted & Trapper in the Dark A 4th pine tree was threatening to fall directly onto our main January 3rd - 2:45am. I left my house in Arlington hoping to beat the rain satellite dish which could take out 99% of WFVA's programming. turning to snow. I was due at the B101.5 studios in South Stafford by 5am to fill in as host on The Jeremy Grey Show. On the air we joked about snow totals and getting stuck at the radio station for days. Little did we know the joke would be on us!

Just after 9am, our news director, Ted Schubel, escorted a guest out of the

By 1pm, we lost power.

No problem. We have a generator! We'll keep going and stay warm. Right?

Around 2pm, the lights in the studio flickered and went out. The studio generator failed. No problem. It must be a fluke. We'll restart it manually and be good to go. Right?

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

B101.5 Studio: 1/3/22 on the air. Someone telling a joke in the hallway.

Even in a sound dampened production studio, audio is coming from something or someone. It was now quiet at B101.5 and NewsTalk 1230.

We are good at redundancy. We have 2 backup transmitters for B101.5, one backup for NewsTalk 1230. We can even broadcast from our studios if our transmitter on a rural hill in Stafford goes down. We have backup generators at both the studio and transmitter sites and we've got uninterrupted power supplies on all critical broadcast equipment. That wasn't enough to take on the devastating snow storm that rocked Fredericksburg on January 3rd.

around

We were off the air from Monday 2pm through Wednesday at

something that can go wrong. We test this generator once a week and it showed no sign of problems prior to the storm.

While we kept up our online presence, it pains us on a personal level that we couldn't be on-air giving out important information in the immediate aftermath of the storm but we were thankful to be back up and running Wednesday morning.

The snow has melted, commercials made-good, and operations back to normal (whatever that is). After three days, I finally made it back to Arlington Wednesday evening.

Exhausted, but happy to get back up and running with the help of our dedicated B101.5 teammates.

Chuck Archer is the Operations Manager/Personality - B101.5

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