FPFnov2020

contents

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18

history’s stories: thanksgiving our heritage: fxbg drugstores

19

what’s in a future? preservation & clean energy

claudia woods diversability President

20

Senior Care: caretakers in crisis

21

it’s all energy: large intestine meridian

lynette reed painter, artist, weaver & more

22

emancipated patients:: psychobotics

23

working together to stop the spread

24

art in the ’burg ...galleries in November

27

behind the scene meet our 1st class staff

28

Companions

29

astrology & you poetryman: bright stream

30

fredericksburg sketches

Crystal jones & shareia oliver healing circles 26

6

Porch talk 3

Umw stars....phi beta kappa inductees

4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

5

fxbg main street ...gratitude

7

everything greens: how it all began

8

In the Garden: chatham garden

9

...And more!

10

i have a friend: grateful

11

notables: crrl pair wins awards

13

season’s bounty: a is for apple

12

outdoor dining

14

growing & crawling....stink on garlic

31

from my porch...gratitude for all

15

vino..meet cabernet sauvignon

16-17

Calendar of Events

9

fxbg you’ve changed

23 Cover: “Mr. & Mrs. Scarecrow” By David C. Kennedy

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November 2020

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ACADEMIC STARS umw phi beta kappa inductees by anna Billinsley

Nichole Boigegrain stands with the PBK marker on Campus Walk. UMW's Kappa of Virginia chapter celebrates its 50th anniversary this fall.

University of Mary The Washington inducted 34 students earlier this year into Phi Beta Kappa, one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious academic honor societies.

Founded in 1776 - the same year as the signing of the Declaration of Independence - the organization is dedicated to championing a liberal arts and sciences education. In the midst of the American Revolution, Phi Beta Kappa's founders recognized that institutions needed to be "a grounding force and elevating influence in turbulent times," according to its website - a principle the society upholds today.

Notable

members

include

presidents and Supreme Court justices, activists W.E.B. DuBois and Helen Keller, former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice Nehisi Coates. and bestselling author Ta-N Nichole Boigegrain joined the ranks of that elite group of scholars, including those who have been initiated into UMW's Kappa of Virginia chapter over the last half century, since its founding in 1970. But she had to navigate through some 21st-century problems along the way.

After returning to campus in September, Boigegrain settled in to take the majority of her classes online this fall.

Then, she realized she needed to update her computer software.

Bam! All files and documents on her computer disappeared - including her class notes and papers she was writing. No amount of time she spent with the software manufacturer or the UMW Help Desk could remedy the problem. Suddenly, all became unsettled for the psychology major.

But Boigegrain adapted, just as she did in the spring when the COVID-19 pandemic forced all classes online and cancelled trips, including one Boigegrain was scheduled to take to Chicago to present her research findings. She remained resilient and didn't let the disruptions derail her academic progress.

"I kind of made peace with it and accepted it," said Boigegrain, who will graduate in December. "I decided it would be even better. I'd be taking notes for the second time. It made me study a lot better, so it worked out."

It's a fitting thought for a newly minted member of Phi Beta Kappa, which

states on its website that members' curiosity and creativity are essential to making the most of life's experiences.

In addition to Boigegrain, inducted this year were: Ariane Akhand, Alyssa Bilkovski, Alexis Brooner, Lauren Closs, Abigail Conklin, Grace Corkran, Elizabeth Devine, Kimberly Eastridge, Madeline Enderle, Makayla Ferrell, Julia Geskey, Piper Giannini, Margaret Gregory, Anushah Hassan, Tess Hatton, Joseph Hearl, William Horne, David Jett, Casey Johnson, Olivia Key, Bryanna Lansing, Victoria Larimer, Nicholas Maksimowicz, Mackenzie McCotter,Meryl Menezes, Kaitlyn Parker, Savannah Powers Katherine Safian, Sarah Sechtman, Madelyne Shiflett, Hannah Treichler, Emily Voorhis, Michelle Zillioux

Anna Billingsley is Associate Vice President of University Relations at UMW photo by Suzanne Carr Rossi

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November 2020

3

ON THE PORCH Chris Jones

Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan Kathy Anderson Sally Cooney Anderson Laurie Black Dianne Bachman Anna Billingsley Sarah Kay Bierle Sean Bonney Sonja Cantu Collette Caprara Janet Douberly Sandra Erikson Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Bill Freehling Jon Gerlach Lisa Gillen Ann Glave Anne Hicks Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Chris Jones Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Julie Laiacona Lisa Chinn Marvashti Vanessa Moncure Nancy Moore Pete Morelewicz Patrick Neustatter Sarah Perry M.L.Powers John Rector Gerri Reid Paula Raudenbush Suzanne Carr Rossi Mandy Smith Marianne Tokarz Tina Will Jarrell Williams Norma Woodward

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright 2020 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

4

November 2020

let’s fall together...not apart

by Chris jones "If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath." ~Amit Ray

Everything is decorated for the amusement of all in fall-from the children in costume to the fiery oranges and golds that sweep the over the foliage. If you love fall, you know what I'm talking about.

scatter them around your neighborhood for people to find. Whatever you decide, I encourage you to be present.

Put the election behind you.

Turn off the news. Log out of Facebook.

Mute the notifications on your phone.

The world isn't going anywhere (at least, I don't I think!).

In a community like ours, we have plenty of ways to enjoy this mid-fall magic. A walk-through Alum Spring Park or on the trails at Loriella Park are great Saturday or Sunday morning recharges alone or in tandem with a friend or loved one. A cup of coffee or tea at the City Dock while you enjoy the movement and sounds of the river as trains announce their arrival on the railroad bridge. If you have children, you can grab some acrylics and paint encouraging messages on rocks and

My favorite thing about mid-fall is sitting on my front porch with hot coffee, tea or cider in one hand and a good book in the other. Reading this issue of Front Porch “cover to cover”, you can do as I do and hear the joggers huff past, see the kids pedal on their bicycles and watch happy couples push their strollers. From my front porch, I see all walks of life-in a literal sense. I'm sure you do, too. And it's not the life portrayed by cable news.

I'm surrounded by a community of caring people, as I'm sure you are. So, here's cheers to an November that's chilly on the outside and toasty on the inside. Make lasting memories with those you love. Pull a child on your lap and count the stars on a Friday night. Most of all, don't let circumstances dictate the quality of your life. Yes, coronavirus demands some level of caution, but in loving yourself, your children and ultimately others, don't hold back. Fall will be hard on many, so encourage others from a distance-a smile,

messages

Virginia

And despite the coronavirus pandemic, I think we should all make fresh memories this November. With November comes walks in nature to enjoy the last remaining leaves (or my favorite, hearing them crunching underfoot on a trail!), day trips into the mountains, kayak or canoe adventures on the Rappahannock River and enjoying the smell of fresh baked pies and hot apple cider. So much of life, and you may be learning now, is about being and not doing. Being captivated by your surroundings. Being uplifted by the kindness of others. And one I hold dear; being patient during affliction (and we're all a little afflicted these days).

Front Porch Thank you so much for all the publicity you have been giving the gallery and the members.

Norma Woodward

Hi Virginia, In case I forgot to tell you, Thank you so much for the surprise article! (August, Artist, Writer, Volunteer) That bike keeps calling me from the garage!

Collete Caprara

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Thank you always for all you do for us and the community. I doubt it's a breeze every month putting together a beautiful magazine!

Anne Hicks

Front Porch Thanks for letting me write for FPF (August, How Women On the Right to Vote) It is a wonderful addition to the area Madalin Bickel Jackson

Lovely cover by Alexis Grogan (September 2020).

Frank Fratoe

a wave and a well-spoken compliment.

You'll refresh their spirit, and most important, you'll lift yours.

Chris Jones is a Writer, Magazine Editor & Book Writing Coach He can be reached at Chrisjonesink.com & on facebook

Hello Virginia I so enjoyed reading the July issue. The wide variety of topics you cover is impressive.

Tina Will

Virginia & Front Porch Allow me to thank you once again for all that you do for the arts in the Fredericksburg area.

You are appreciated more than you can imagine!

Warmly, Lynn Abbott

Fantastic cover by Pete M (Augst 2020) John Perry

FXBG VA Main Street Our hearts are full of gratitude!

By ann glave

Downtown Still Going Strong!

Above circa 1940; Below current

Inc. with tea provided

by Spilt Tea Room and our Coffee Sponsor Marianna Bedway and Kevin Hyde - with our own roasted blend by Agora Downtown.

Tulips provided by Bloomia, Flowers Sponsors are Cathy Wack and Catharine Farley & Vic Ramoneda. Our Swag Sponsor is Mersiovsky

Thank You to all that donated to Power of 100, bought tickets to our A Downtown Affair to Go dinner, came forward as A Downtown Affair volunteer, a sponsor, or a corporate donor.

Our supporters allow us to continue with our mission to support the economic vitality and preservation of the heart of our community - Downtown Fredericksburg!

Our to Go Sponsor was an anonymous sponsor who supports our local artists. Visit Joelle Cathleen Studio to see some great art! Our Wine Sponsor is The Community Bank of the Chesapeake and our Pottery Sponsor is the Gemini 3 Group. Spring Arbor Senior Living can forward for the Charcutier Sponsor. There Dovetail are two Cocktail Sponsors Cultural Resource Group and Willow. The Tea Sponsor was CMS Mortgage Solutions

As our Main Street motto states we are forever revolutionary. I think that we can all agree that we are making history.

We're not the only ones fighting alongside our businesses.

YOU - are standing with us and your support is keeping us strong.

The Chair of National Main Street, Ed McMahon said it best "Downtown is important because it's the heart and soul of any community. If you don't have a healthy downtown, you simply don't have a healthy town".

A Downtown Affair to Go was a success! This year's event was successful because great chefs and bartenders accepted the challenge - Capital Ale House, Vivify, Orofino, La Petite Auberge, Eileen's Bakery and Cafe, FoodE and Fahrenheit 132.

And our potters and our Design Team set the ambiance once again for the evening.

Our Power of 100+ campaign is fully funded! 101 individuals, families and businesses donated to the campaign to bring more bike racks, a bike corral, bike shelters, benches, planters, and trash cans Downtown. This project infuses nearly $40K - instantly onto the streets of Downtown. BIG heartfelt thank you to the city for providing in-kind installation for these items.

being faced and solutions for support. We hold hands, offer advice, and link business owners to vital resources.

The one part that stays true and constant is our resilient Downtown. As in challenging times in our history, our Downtown is showing once again that we are FREDERICKSBURG STRONG.

We are approaching our pivotal 4th Quarter Season. It is not a stretch to say that this is the most important time right now - to show your love and support for our Downtown. Keep your dollars local and support your Downtown!

Main Street is also standing shoulder to shoulder with our downtown businesses to cheer them on and support them through this busy time.

We stand together! And we are FREDERICKSBURG STRONG!

Ann Glave is the executive director of Fredericksburg VA Main Street.

She loves all things Downtown! info@fredericksburgmainstreet or 540-538-7445.

Construction LLC. Our Friends of A Downtown Affair To Go included: Atlantic Union Bank, Bankers Insurance, Joanne Barden, Behavioral Criminology International, Theresa Conologue, Fort To- Go, Erik Jilson, River Rock Outfitter, TASTE OVS, and Whittingham.

Our 2020 Corporate Sponsors include: our 1728 Donors - Seiht A Falkenburg Laser Eye Center, and Fredericksburg Area Association of REALTORS. Our Partners in Preservation include Pat Breme, The Cohen Family, Coldwell Banker Elite, The Community Bank of Chesapeake, Fredericksburg Area Builders Association, Integrity Mortgage, and Prosperity Home Mortgage. Our Friends of Fredericksburg include Atkinson Aeronautics, Atlantic Union Bank, Hilltop Dental and Virginia Partners Bank.

Main Street has fought hard alongside our businesses this year. We've given out nearly $84,000 in technology and business operations support grants.

All possible with the financial support of the Community Relief Fund of The Community Foundation, VA Main Street Grant, CARES funding from the City of Fredericksburg and FXBG, VA Main Street Board. We've served as a liaison with the city informing them of the challenges

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November 2020

5

Disability Studies Course offered for first time at UMW

BY LISA CHINN MARVASHTI One in four Americans lives with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At the University of Mary Washington, it's one in eight.

UMW senior Claudia Woods, president of the student club DiversAbility is taking "Intro to Disability Studies."

Offered for the first time this fall, the course takes an interdisciplinary look at disability as key to the human experience as race or gender.

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Stylish Comfort

"With those sorts of numbers, it's mind-boggling [that] disability doesn't have more automatic inclusion when people think about diversity," said UMW Professor of English Chris Foss.

As the Americans with Disabilities Act's 30th year and October's Disability Awareness Month shine a light on one of the country's most underrepresented groups, so does a new UMW course.

Offered for the first time this fall, Intro to Disability Studies (IDS) delves into the 21st-century experience of a diverse population, exploring cognitive, sensory, mobility and other differences as just as

"It took a lot of meetings, discussion and work on Google Docs to pull this together," said Professor of Art History Julia DeLancey, who borrows from her first-year seminar, "The Beauty Difference Gives Us," to deliver an IDS session on how disabilities affect artists' work.

UMW senior Claudia Woods, president of the student club DiversAbility in a psychology course last year with her service dog, Hearo, is taking "Intro to Disability Studies." essential to the human condition as gender and race.

723 Caroline St 899.8077 Daily 11-5:30, Sunday 12-5 6

November 2020

The 16-w week course fans out across disciplines, examining disability throughout the lifespan in historical, political, social and other contexts. Years in the making, the class is team-taught by faculty and staff - from art history, education, English, historic preservation, psychology and the Office of Disability Resources (ODR) - who've poured their time and passion into the topic in hopes it gains traction.

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"Instructor of record" for the eight-person group, Foss, who teaches "Disability and Literature" and a firstyear seminar on representations of autism in film and literature, began reaching out to faculty, deans, provosts and presidents more than a decade ago to design the IDS course.

"It's taken a particular village," he said of the group that managed to bring the vision to life.

College of Education Professor Jennifer Walker draws on her background in special education, while Professor of Psychological Science Virginia Mackintosh shares concepts of identity and social construction. The curriculum covers everything from discrimination and legal protections to accessible materials and assistive technology.

"In order to be fully empowered as disability rights activists, it's important to have a strong foundation of knowledge to understand the history of anti-discrimination legislation and the work left to be done," said ODR Director Jessica Machado, who teaches a session.

Twelve percent of UMW's more than 4,000 undergraduates are registered with ODR, making it one of the most utilized offices of its type in Virginia, and making the IDS course a good fit for Mary Washington.

"It's a class for everybody," said senior Claudia Woods, who is deaf. "I think it would really challenge able people's misconceptions about disabilities."

A double-major in English and women's and gender studies, with a minor in social justice, Woods is pairing her personal experience with course material to power her position as president of DiversAbility and steer the student group toward activism.

Lisa Chinn Marvashti is the Assistant Director of Media and Public Relations Photo left by Suzanne Carr Rossi.

Everything Greens how it all began: DTG celebrates 25 years

By Sarah Perry Dean’s Plastering Services Plaster, Stucco, Drywall, Art 540.656.2399 540.419.8878 luckyluckydean@aol.com

As we near the end of Downtown Greens' 25th year, I wanted to share a story from the beginning of the organization. This story is about the nailbiting acquisition, through absolute auction in 1999, of the Upper Garden, which is the property located on the corner of Princess Anne and Dixon Streets.

I spoke to Lisa Biever (cofounder of Downtown Greens with Laura Shepherd) about the purchase of the land.

To set the stage: Downtown Greens had been around for four years, two of those years as an official nonprofit.

Lisa Biever: "It was the early days and the Lower Garden was thriving.

We were definitely getting momentum and we had started conversations about how to acquire the property at the Lower Garden because Downtown Greens didn't own any of that either. We were a whole organization built on the people that own the land just being agreeable to us using it."

recalls. The land, now known as the Upper Garden, had been approved for 18 townhouses.

"We were already testing water quality at Hazel Run which is right there. So we were thinking that development would not be the best thing for an already challenged water ecosystem.

We decided to do something and Laura Shepherd is so good at momentum and drive. We decided we'd just do this fundraising campaign. So we made this prospectus and we would just go out and ring doorbells like we were selling Girl Scout cookies or something."

THE UPPER GARDEN "One day there was just a huge real estate sign in the ground," Lisa

THE AUCTION The day of the auction arrived.

Lisa and Laura (with the expert auction presence of Bill Beck) and several other hopeful buyers were there. I spoke briefly to one of those auction-goers who stuck out in Lisa's head as a key reason that Downtown Greens ended up with the property. "I tell you what my heart, it was a heart-pounding event" That aforementioned auctiongoer approached Lisa and asked her what their top bid was. She told him and he assured her that he wouldn't outbid them if nobody else did. He believed in the project and wanted to help. The bidding started and Downtown Greens got up to their upper limit and there was silence.

NOBODY outbid them. Lisa continues: "Joe Wilson could have bought it and he chose to let it go to the Garden."

And that is how they won the property: with the pledges and trust of

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540/371-9890

Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

many people in the community. Today you will find 1.74 acres of park-like open space instead of 18 townhouses.

"The first thing we did was we painted that big auction sign. (above) We painted a big Thank You on it, and that's Laura Shepherd, that was the first thing in her mind."

As I look at all of the things that Downtown Greens' open space provides, I am so grateful for the early supporters and the early organizers for seeing the wealth of opportunity and benefit that the upper garden space could bring to the entire community. Today it is helping to a tributary control runoff into Hazel Run--a to the Rappahannock River, creating habitat for wildlife, providing a space for the community to enjoy for their mental health, wellness, and connection to nature.

Now the entire Downtown Greens property is under a conservation easement with the Land Trust of Virginia that protects it from development in perpetuity. If you want to learn more about Downtown Greens visit our revamped website www.downtowngreens.org Sarah Perry is the Executive Director of Downtown Greens

Please join with me and continue to support our Local FXBG small businesses

Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com

SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com

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November 2020

7

In the Garden gardening goes on at chatham manor

By Tina Will m a i n t e n a n c e resumed.

The gardener and a small group of MGs were able to return to tackle the tasks. The weeds had had a field day, but have been conquered again. The garden is filled with color, and it is worth your time to visit.

The weeds didn't get the memo last March, but do they ever? Beautiful gardens don't happen without work. When the Governor of Virginia issued the first COVID-19 restrictions in March, the National Park Service limited on-site work at Chatham Manor. Those restrictions included Friends of Chatham gardener, Scott Blake and the Master Gardener volunteers (MGs) who work there. The grounds and gardens have remained open to the public throughout this time and, fortunately, after a month some grounds

8

November 2020

M a s t e r Gardeners have been critical to Chatham's gardens for years, but this year even more so. Carol Hyland is the project leader for the MG volunteers at Chatham. Manon Dixon, Steve Thomas, Susan Collins, Margie Huie, Arlene Wilkinson, and Mike DiSalvo are there almost every week.

They are frequently joined by Friends of Chatham President, Nancy Fahy. Many hands make the weeding and tending less like work! The volunteers consider it a privilege to help maintain the beauty of this historic site. All who come to admire the gardens, grounds, and the view of the river, appreciate the hard work, and hours of service that these people contribute.

Chatham Manor is undergoing a bit of a renovation itself, though that means a balancing act between going backward in time to restore it to historical

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accuracy and using new materials and modern equipment to do so. The fire suppression system was insufficient, so it is being improved with a larger capacity water pipe. The benefits of the restoration go beyond fire control. In addition, the greenhouses have new glass and plans under discussion include the idea of growing some of the annuals needed right there on site. Sounds like a great idea. This plan also has the potential to be used to teach others.

Chatham Manor MG Volunteers (l to r) Manon Dixon, Susan Collins, Steve Thomas, and Gardener Scott Blake that facemasks will still be needed. More information will be posted on our website mgacra.org, and our Facebook page as the plans firm up. Bring your labeled seed packets to trade, or come anyway to pick up seeds for next year even if you've no seeds to trade. We have heard from seed distributors that there has been a huge increase in demand for seeds this year, which is great news. More people have used this unusual year to start to garden. Join the growing movement, and get started at our Seed Swap!

Seed Swap January 2021 Master Gardeners 5th Annual Seed Swap has a date and location: January 23, 2021 from 10 a.m to 1 p.m. at King George Citizen Center, 8076 King's Hwy, King George, VA 22485. It is good to have this new venue for the swap. It is likely

Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 17 years and lives near Ferry Farm Photos by Tina Will

Fredericksburg You’ve Changed...

And I Love It!!

Jarrell Williams constructed right on Caroline St. That is when I knew things were changing for the better.

Now days you can drive into downtown and see the changes almost immediately.

From the growth of the Mary Washington's campus [UMW] to the people seen walking around downtown, it's a whole new vibe and I'm here for it!

Back around 2003 or so my parents bought a house in a newly developed neighborhood in Falmouth Va, I just called it Stafford.

I was just going into high school and remember not being super stoked on moving there as I was coming from a more populated, Woodbridge Va. I fel the usual, "I'm never gonna see my friends again" or "man, we moved to the country! ??"

After starting school it wasn't long until I made friends and they hipped me to the Downtown Fredericksburg area.

I mean it was cool to see OG spots like Carl's Frozen Custard & Goolrick's Pharmacy but still there wasn't much for a 14 year old... unless you liked civil war antiques.

But that was then, boy have things changed! Over the years, I have seen the area basically develop before my very eyes. From witnessing friends open up shops to a major hotel chain be

While I have personally moved from the area my parents still live in that same house. So anytime we come back to visit we make it a point to swing downtown and peep the changes. This most recent trip was a little different as Visit Fred brought me back home to show off the area I grew to love. AKA we lived like tourists in the city I grew up and it was great!!

We started off by checking into the very hotel downtown that changed the landscape, the Courtyard by Marriott.

From there we set out for grub...first stop, the food truck turned brick & mortar restaurant, Juan More Taco where my wife and I both got a trio of tacos with matching margaritas. Cause what are tacos w/o margs?!

Pimenta- A newer Jamaican restaurant flexing their muscles with authentic flavor!

Hyperion Espresso- The oldest and one of the best coffee shops in town... and so many more!

With full estomagos, [that's stomachs in Espanol], we dove head first into some serious exploration. You ever live somewhere and drive by places hundreds of times and never go in? Well let's just say that was the theme of this trip! Like the Belmont. The Home and Studio of American Artist Gari Melchers.

Or the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, where we leaned about leech bloodletting.

One thing I can say I appreciate more as an adult is the history in Fredericksburg.

For everywhere you turn it seems there's some type of story. Which is why we chose to hop on Gracie for a guided Trolley Tour!

Let's not forget the Fredericksburg Fairgrounds where for years there have been tons of events, from food truck rallies to the Fredericksburg

Brewfest. I think my wife and I are the only people to go to a beer fest and sample more pickles from Bad Ass Pickles and nut butters from Sprelly than the beers!

All in all, I'm in love with where Fredericksburg is headed. It's very refreshing to be able to walk down the streets and see such diversity! In the people, the stores and especially the restaurants. Growing up here I just knew the area was destined for greatness it was just slightly untapped is all.

If you are looking for an area full of history, beautiful architecture, incredible and inviting walkability and a wide range of cuisines to choose from [Bavarian, Jamaican, Mexican, Thai, oh my!] then Fredericksburg is a must come see... go Fredericksburg, Go! Jarrell Williams is the owner of Nomarama is a #LocalLove promotion and event marketing company.

He is a self proclaimed "Lover of all things Local" www.nomarama.org/ nomarama.com/blog

Of course its not the only spot we ate‌there is so much food here now!

Other grub from our trip worth mentioning: Sammy T's which has been around since the 80's FoodE- owned by Emmy Award Winning Top Chef, Joy Crump.

Mason Dixon Cafe- Kelly has a way with food but also a way with turning overlooked spaces into GOLD!

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November 2020

9

“I Have A Friend” Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life!

Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.

grateful

By Laurie Black

Though 2020 has had its challenges, there is still be much to be grateful for such as the support of a good friend. In 2019, Colleen Pataky became friends with Irma through the Senior Visitors Program. Colleen and Irma quickly found they had much in common and their friendship deepened as they spent time visiting, eating out, attending Mass, shopping, or going to choir concerts.

Colleen saw a Senior Visitors Program flier in the library and was intrigued. She felt she had free time to give and that giving volunteer service to a senior would be a win-win. Colleen says, "Volunteering can benefit anyone who steps up. Volunteering for the Senior Visitors Program can be for anyone of any age, a college student, someone working, or someone who is retired."

Many volunteers express that they love the flexibility of volunteering with the Senior Visitors Program since volunteer time is tailored to the schedule of

individual volunteers and seniors. However, the benefits of volunteering with the program go far beyond convenience.

Colleen explains, "I met Irma's family and she met my family. Now Irma has become like family. It has been a wonderful experience.

As my family interacted with Irma, I saw another beautiful side of my 17 year old daughter in the kindness and gentleness she showed Irma." Colleen went on to say, "I enjoy the fact that Irma is gracious and so appreciative of our time together. She has family nearby, but I know it is nice to have someone else to talk to and do things with." Irma agrees, "I enjoy the friendship and time that we share."

In the spring of 2020 when the pandemic hit, Colleen and Irma had to find new ways to continue their friendship.

They stayed in touch by telephone.

Sometimes Colleen made quick visits and dropped off items on Irma's doorstep.

Then in the summer of 2020, Irma suffered an unexpected medical emergency. As Irma recovered, Colleen stayed in touch with Irma's family. Donna, Irma's daughter, says, "It has been a difficult time and my mom has been through a lot, but I saw her light up when she talked about Colleen. She was smiling and joyful when she was able to see Colleen again. I am so grateful for the Senior Visitors Program and for Colleen. I believe that visits from Colleen are therapeutic for my mom and will be an

www.donatelifevirginia.org 10

November 2020

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important part of her improvement and recovery."

It is a comfort and an inspiration in challenging times to see the remarkable power of friendship. There are so many simple and positive ways to touch someone's life. In giving a little of ourselves, we can gain a greater sense of community and a greater capacity to find peace and joy.

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 Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program

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

Notables CRRL pair receives awards By sean bonney

Simon Watts (above), Youth Services and MakerLab Specialist at Fredericksburg Branch, has received the 2020 George Mason Award.

Watts started working at CRRL, first in Customer Services, in 2009. As MakerLab Specialist, he developed programs to make a range of technology and science learning accessible to customers, including an innovative badging program which empowers customers to learn to use equipment without staff supervision.

Watts participated in the development of the Fredericksburg Canal Quarter Maker District, and IdeaSpace at 1616 Princess Anne Street, a CRRL media + maker space and anchor project. While the opening of IdeaSpace has been delayed and CRRL branches and MakerLabs are closed due to

the pandemic, Watts has shifted his focus to making personal protective equipment for local medical and law enforcement personnel. CRRL has distributed over 2,000 pieces of PPE in 2020.

The George Mason Award recognizes individuals who advocate for libraries and contribute to the development, growth, and extension of library and information services in their community.

Craig Graziano (right), Fredericksburg Branch Manager, has been chosen as the winner of the 2020 Donna G. Cote Librarian of the Year Award.

Graziano has been a CRRL customer since he was in third grade and Salem Church Branch opened just a mile from his house. After working as a library page during high school, he pursued his Masters in Library Science (MLIS) from the University of Pittsburgh, and returned to the Fredericksburg area to work as a youth services librarian at the then-new England Run (now Howell) Branch.

Graziano's career at CRRL has focused on

youth services, MakerLabs, and the arts.

His musical interests drove him to create a partnership with Fredericksburg All Ages, a youth-led music and arts nonprofit which uses performance space at Fredericksburg Branch. On July 1, 2020, he assumed the position of Fredericksburg Branch Manager The Donna G. Cote Librarian of the Year Award recognizes exemplary achievement and significant contributions to librarianship. The award is named after Donna Cote, who worked for CRRL for 44 years, and served as Library Director for 34 years. A dedicated public servant and visionary leader, she made access for all her motto and provided cutting-edge technologies and learning opportunities for library customers the driving force of the library's mission.

Sean Bonney is the Community Engagement Manager at Central Rappahonnck Regional Library

(CRRL) is a public library system that serves the city of Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties in Virginia

Central Rappahannock Regional Library

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November 2020

11

Outdoor Dining FXBG provides grants to city restaurants

By Bill Freehling The City of Fredericksburg has started a grant program to help restaurants purchase items needed to extend their outdoor dining season this year.

dining season, principally heaters. All heating devices must be approved by the City Fire Marshal's Office and subsequently purchased by the restaurant before any grant funds will be disbursed.

Due to COVID-19, restaurants have capacity limits, and many customers feel more comfortable dining outside.

Many restaurants have responded by expanding their outdoor dining areas, and many have been looking for ways to extend the season as the weather turns colder.

The new program will allow restaurants in the City of Fredericksburg to apply for grants of up to $2,000 each to help purchase equipment needed to extend the outdoor The $50,000 grant program is funded by a portion of the City's CARES Act allocation. Grants will be made on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are gone.

Become a Member

The City of Fredericksburg also plans to convert a number of two-hour parking spaces in the downtown commercial district to 15-minute spaces for curbside pickup. More details on this program will be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Photos top left, Farhenheit top right: Vivfy Center: Renato

www.fredericksburgcsa.com

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org

Tues-Fri: 11a-4p Sat By Appointment

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged 12

November 2020

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Bill Freehling, Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism, lives with his wife, Emily, two children, Abby and Andrew, and cockapoo, Chessie, in downtown Fredericksburg. Bill has been reading The Front Porch cover to cover for his entire 14-year stay in Fredericksburg and plans to continue doing so.

Season’s Bounty

The Sunken Well Tavern

A is for apple

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

Knowing me today, you might laugh when I tell you I was absolutely the fifth-grade jump rope champion! Not only did I know all of the playground games and chants, but I couldn't be beat in hot pepper (speed jumping), double Dutch, crossover, jump-ins, snake, Chinese jump rope (played with a circular band instead of single ropes), criss-cross, singles, doubles, backwards - and I was a tireless turner! The side wall of our garage doubled as a rope collection and repair station - varying lengths of rope hung, cut edges sealed with tape as well as "bought" ropes with wood or plastic handles, from the local Pompton Plaza toy and game shop. There wasn't yet any type of organized competition, just playground, neighborhood or even individual rivalry.

And, of course, PF Flyers were the sneaker of choice - "Run Faster, Jump Higher" emblazoned on every green and white box, with a rubber stamped PF in a circle on the back heel of each canvas shoe. And the chants. Do any of these bring back a memory? A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea? Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear Turn Around? I Had a Little Puppy and His Name Was Tiny Tim? Miss Mary Mack Mack Mack?

Or my favorite - A is for Apple? That was one of the few rhymes that wasn't just by rote - you had to jump through the alphabet, naming a fruit or vegetable with each letter. You were out as soon as you stumbled or blanked out on a word, although we began to allow three passes when we found ourselves constantly tripped up by K, X and Z. This was long before the day of kiwi and kohlrabi, the xigua Chinese watermelon, and if you weren't a Russo, Esposito, or Scottio, zucchini was just another word in the Spelling Bee (also a fifth-grade highlight).

Plus, to add to the difficulty, the second set of alphabet foods were a no-repeat.

Hey, this may be a idea to pitch to the Food Network! Exercise body and brain at the same time! Since jump rope challenges coordination and stamina - and experts say that repetition, as in the chants, helps to hardwire the brain, this shows jump rope is a great activity. So you're wondering what happened to my short lived sport? Well, some time in sixth grade, we newly minted middle-schoolers began

to wear ice pink lipstick à la Twiggy, roll our skirts up, and spend recess giggling in the girls' room instead of playing elementary school games like jump rope, hopscotch or kickball on the playground.

We were finally able to ride the bus now to Schuyler Colfax Middle School, take sewing, home economics and babysitting classes - and it was more important to put a penny in our shiny Bass penny loafers than to tie on a pair of PF Flyers. Sigh.

Well, years later I passed on jump rope lore to my daughter, and as I now have twin granddaughters, and as they're just about the age to learn "A is For Apple"......

A IS FOR APPLESAUCE Fall is apple season here in Virginia, with Winchester tapped as the apple capital. Not all apples are created equal, though - each variety is known as best for cooking, baking or eating.

Women's Day lyrically describes them "as yellow as a Golden Delicious, crisp as a Northern Spy, mellow as a Baldwin, sweet as a Grimes Golden, tart as a new Winesap". Wash, quarter and core about two pounds of cooking apples. Cook on low heat in a covered saucepan or slow cooker, adding a bit of water to keep them from sticking, stirring occasionally. Break up quarters with a potato masher, sweetening to taste and adding spices (ground cinnamon, nutmeg, mace or cloves). Makes about 2-3 cups.

WALDORF SALAD Wash and core two each red and green or yellow apples - cut into bite-sized cubes. Add ½ cup each Craisins, golden raisins, thinly sliced celery, and coarsely chopped pecans. Mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons orange juice and 2 tablespoons thinly sliced orange zest.

Mix together and serve on Bibb lettuce or mesclun mix.

A IS FOR APPLE PIE Prepare pastry for two-crust 9" pie, unbaked. Line a greased pan with pastry. Fill with 6-7 cups peeled and sliced tart baking apples, ¾ to 1 cup sugar mixed with 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon, nutmeg or combination. Dot with 2 tablespoons butter and drizzle with orange or lemon juice. Adjust top crust and flute the edges - cut slits for the steam to escape. Bake in preheated 400F oven about 45-50 minutes or until the crust is browned and cooked through. Serve warm or cold, topped with whipped cream or ice cream.

Apples make a delicious addition to stuffings, salads and vegetables delicious desserts such as breads, fritters, crisps, pandowdy and strudels. Serve with ham or pork as a delicious side dish. And don't forget about caramel apples, apple chutney, apple juice and cider, as well as versatile dried apples. Enjoy them in the season!

Vanessa shares her fabulous recipes , with a bit of southern charm & wit, each month in FPF

Open every Sat 7am-2 2pm Rain/Shine @Hurkamp Park masks & gloves recommended front porch fredericksburg

November 2020

13

Growing & Crawling

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

the stink on garlic By janet douberly

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

For many thousands of years garlic has been used and revered by humans. It has been a staple in our food, used as a medicine for a slew of ailments, and also believed to be an aphrodisiac.

This delicious little allium bulb was understandably worshiped by ancient egyptians and fed to the hardest workers in their society as it was believed to increase strength and endurance.

While it is up for debate still, it is believed garlic is native to Asia and is one of the world's oldest cultivated crops.

While it was brought to America with our early settlers, it wasn't fully embraced by the average American household until the 1940's.

The common name garlic was derived from the Old English word garleac, which when literally interpreted, it means "spear leek,".

It is believed this is in reference to the lanceolate shape of the

plant's cloves.

Best of all, now is the perfect time to plant garlic here! If you decide to pick up a bulb from the farmers market or store just make sure it still has its roots attached! Simply separate the cloves and plant, root side down, about 3 inches deep and at least 6 inches apart! Harvest the garlic when leaves and stem start to turn brown, usually in the late summer.

WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!

Janet Douberly is Program Coordinator at Downtown Greens.

If you'd like to learn more about things growing and crawling in Fredericksburg, check out Downtown Greens on Facebook and Instagram.

Become a Member

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

Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant www.fredericksburgcsa.com 14

November 2020

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200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

Join Us for Breakfast $5 Sunrise Breakfast Special Two Eggs Your Way, Breakfast Potatoes, Choice of Toast Mon./Fri. 6am-10am

Vino Meet Cabernet Sauvignon

by City Vino

Carry Out Available Book Your Holiday Party Today!

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

Olde Towne BUTCHER orner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Monday to Thursday, 10am to 7pm; Friday 10am to 8 pm Saturday 9am to 8pm, Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor

Become a Member

fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Open every Sat 7am-2 2pm Rain/Shine @Hurkamp Park masks & gloves recommended

Cabernet Sauvignon's parents are Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. In the mid-1990s, Carole Meredith and John Bowers, at UC Davis, identified these grapes as the parents of Cabernet Sauvignon through DNA testing. The naturally occurring cross-pollination is estimated to have occurred as early as the 1600s. Given that one of its parents is Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon's Merlot half-siblings include and CarmÊnère.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted grape in the world. As of 2020, there are an estimated 840,000 acres planted worldwide. It is grown on all continents, except for Antarctica. It is the most-widely planted grape in China and Chile. In France, its native home, it is the sixth-most-planted grape overall, and the fourth-most-planted red grape, behind Merlot, Grenache, and Syrah. It is the second-most-planted grape in the United States, behind Chardonnay.

From 2000 to 2018, a single bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon held the record for the most expensive bottle of wine to be sold at auction. The wine that held the record was a six-liter bottle of Screaming Eagle Cabernet 1992 Sauvignon from California, and the winning bid was an astounding half a million dollars.

The grape, Cabernet Sauvignon, has high levels of a compound called Methoxypyrazine (often shorted to pyrazines) than many other grapes, which gives it its propensity to have aromas of black pepper, green peppercorn, sage, or bell pepper. The levels in the wine can often be minimized in the vineyard by making sure the grapes ripen fully, and through removal of excess green growth on the vine.

Aromas and flavors in a Cabernet Sauvignon will differ depending on the region and climate where the grape is grown. In cooler parts of the world, Cabernet Sauvignon can exhibit notes of

black fruit, including black currant, also with the pyrazines. In moderate climates, black currant, black cherry, and black olives may be experienced. Finally, in a hotter climate, the wine may come across as having super-ripe fruit that may come across as jam-like. Australian Cabernet Sauvignon-especially from Coonawarra, where it is hot and planted on unique terra rossa soil-is quite notable for aromas of eucalyptus or menthol.

Due to its high level of tannins and acidity, Cabernet Sauvignon can age for decades. The decision to age your wine should depend on how you enjoy your wine. If you like big, bold fruity and wines, drink it within 6 to 8 years of bottling. If you prefer wines that are more earthy, with smoother tannins, and that still have hints of fruit, age it about 10 years.

Finally, if you like wines with dried fruit, earthy mushroom and leather on the nose and palate, age it much longer.

A fatty steak is always a recommended pairing for Cabernet Sauvignon for many reasons. The fat from the meat and the tannins from the pair are foils for each other. Eating food with high fat content will coat your mouth.

That coating will minimize the gum drying astringency you usually feel when you drink a highly tannic wine. The tannins in the wine will then rinse away the coating.

Cabernet Sauvignon has its own official day, which is celebrated each year on the Thursday before Labor Day across social media, via the hashtag #CabernetDay. The world's most famous blends contain Cabernet Sauvignon, including most red wines from Bordeaux, Meritage wines in the United States, Super Tuscan wines from Italy, and CMS Blends, which see it blended with Merlot and Syrah.

Merlot and Syrah.

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

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November 2020

15

CALEND november 2020... Happy Fall...Thank A Vet, Count Your Blessings on Thanksgiving Day, Support Your Local Merchants Sunday, November 1

Join us for a virtual concert event hosted by Fredericksburg United Methodist Church's Music Ministry. 3 pm in honor of All Saints Day, a day where we remember those who have come before us and shaped us. www.facebook.com/fumcva or our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr-33SdXfwe0qZmozPktrOQ St. George's Episcopal Church discussion as part of their 300th anniversary celebration 2:30 pm via Zoom. The panel will discuss how St. George's has changed and take a personal look at the parish's place in the community, its history, and its future. Advance registration is required by visiting: www.StGeorgesEpiscopal.net/300thpanel. The lecture is offered free of charge with donations gladly accepted.

Saturday, November 7

Scouting for Food Covid Style Food Scout drive-thru food drives on a Bank, St. Asaph's Episcopal Churc YMCA

Scouting for Food Covid Style Food Drive National Capital Area Council Scout drive-thru food drives Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, St. Asaph's Episcopal Church (Bowling Green), and Ron Rosner YMCA.

Downtown Holiday Kickoff

Gelli Plate Printing-No tools needed. Draw directly on a plate that has been rolled or painted with acrylic paint and print. The variations are endless. All supplies provided., 11a-3p $ FCCA Workshop, contact Celeste Johnston: 804.401.0546 Cbotanart@aol.com Clay Hand Turkey Plate Class! LibertyTown Arts Workshop , 12n

ELECTION DAY: YOUR VOICE….YOUR VOTE!

Chaos on William St, Live Music, The Recreation Center, 7pm

Comedy and Empanadas, The Recreation Center FXBG Comedy Open Mic & Empanadas!!! FREE comedy, $5 bombs and delicious chili dogs Join us for non stop fun and endless camaraderie.

Sunday, November 8

Wednesday, November 4

Be A Beaver Believer, discover the effects of these cool creatuyres on the environment at Motts Run, 10am $

Sunken Well, Trivia on the Patio, t 6:30PM, 720 Littlepage Karaoke/Open Mia, The Recreation Center FXBG Bring your voice, your instrument, your poetry, your art and share with us! Come hang with hosts Broadway and FXBG Public Radio! Drink specials from 7pm-10pm!

Mic Covers provided and sanitizing between performers!

Word Basics 10a-12p CRRL online computer workshop, go to librarypoint.org

First Friday, November 6

Virtual Lunch & Learn. w/CRRL. Learn something new from the comfort of your home. Search "Lunch" at librarypoint.org for schedules & topics Brush Strokes Gallery Artist exhibits "We Give Thanks", open thursSunday FCCA Artist Choice All Media National Exhibit Come join us on the patio at Canal Quarter Arts for a special event as artist Hunter Perkinson does a live demonstration on forging his beautiful iron feathers! Check out our Facebook event for more details!

11am - 7pm

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

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

November 2020

Sunken Well, Bluegrass on the Patio, 6-8PM, 720 Littlepage

Tuesday, November 10

Comedy and Empanadas, The Recreation Center FXBG Comedy Open Mic & Empanadas FREE comedy $5 bombs and delicious chili dogs

Wednesday, November 11 Veterans Day…..thank a Vet today!

Thursday, November 5

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Window Wonderland, Downtown, t

FXBG SPCA Animal Rescue Festival! Featuring the annual Walk for the Animals, where you can fundraise as a team or individual, keep the party going with a meal and unlimited drinks with the PARTY pass! Live music, vendors, food, beer, wine & cider!

Sunken Well, Bluegrass on the Patio, 6-8PM, 720 Littlepage

Tuesday, November 3

Saturday November 14

Sunken Well, Trivia on the Patio, Every 6:30PM, 720 Littlepage Karaoke/Open Mia, The Recreation Center FXBG Bring your voice, your instrument, your poetry, your art and share with us! Drink specials from 7pm-10pm! Mic Covers provided and sanitizing between performers!

7pm til about 1 am

Thursday, November 12

Word Basics 10a-12p CRRL online computer workshop, go to librarypoint.org

Friday, November 13

Virtual Lunch & Learn. w/CRRL. Learn something new from the comfort of your home. Search "Lunch" at librarypoint.org for schedules & topics Parent Date Night …fun night for kids. Fun-filled socially distance games, dances, crafts. Dorothy Hart Community Center, 6p-8:30p $

Family Firebuilding Bring the whole various ways to construct and star This will be great practice for camp enjoy after we make our own fires. p.m. Motts Run Reservoir

Lino Block (cut) Printing-Learn how and print it. Students will need T carving tool. FCCA Workshop, $ 804.401.0546 Cbotanart@aol.com

Owl Prowl, Who, Who, Who cooks f at Motts Run Reservoir to discover few. We can't guarantee they'll ca evening in the woods. This is a per family or leave the kids at home an sturdy shoes, feet you can keep registration is required. Fee:7-8:30

Sunday, November 15

Sunken Well, Bluegrass on the Pat Littlepage

Tuesday, November 17

Comedy and Empanadas, The Recre & Empanadas!!! FREE comedy $5 us for non stop fun and endless Empanada & Tequila shot special!!

Airing of Grievances Roast Tourna Center, 8pm

Wednesday, November 18

Sunken Well, Trivia on the Patio, Littlepage

Karaoke/Open Mia, The Recreation instrument, your poetry, your art Covers provided and sanitizing bet the awesome atmosphere and supe every Wednesday from 7pm til abo

DAR of events

hru Dec 31

d Drive National Capital Area Council at the Fredericksburg Regional Food ch (Bowling Green), and Ron Rosner

e family and Join a naturalist to learn rt a fire and how to safely put it out. pout! Bring your own s'mores stuff to This program is for ages 6+.$ 3-4:30

w to design and cut a block, ink it up o bring one or two lino blocks and a $ 11-3p contact Celeste Johnston:

for you?" the Barred Owl calls. Gather r more about owls and maybe hear a all but we're certain you'll enjoy an rfect opportunity to bring the whole nd enjoy a date night together. Wear quiet, and bring a flashlight. Pre0 p.m. Motts Run Reservoir

Thursday, November 19

Word Basics 10a-12p CRRL online computer workshop, go to librarypoint.org Evening with an EXPERT: Eric Powell & Mike Tucci, "It Smelled Like Money", A brief history of the Sylvania/FMC Plant. Come to old Sylvania/FMC Plant, now the Bowman Center (1 Bowman Drive) at 7pm to discover the people who worked there and the impact it had on our community. Sponsored by FXBG AREA MUSEUM

Friday, November 20

Happy Turkey Day!

Whittingham Annual Christmas Window Unveiled 6pm

Saturday, November 21

Virtual Lunch & Learn. w/CRRL. Learn something new from the comfort of your home. Search "Lunch" at librarypoint.org for schedules & topics

Childrens Chrstmas Tree Lighting, Hurkamp Park, 4- 6p Wood Block Printing-Learn how to design and carve a block of wood ink it up and print it. Students will Need to bring a wood panel or scrap piece of wood to carve into as well as a wood carving tool. FCCA Workshop $ , 11a-3p contact Celeste Johnston: 804.401.0546 Cbotanart@aol.com

Sunday, November 22

Sunken Well, Bluegrass on the Patio, Every Sunday, from 6-8PM, 720 Littlepage

Monday, November 23

eation Center FXBG Comedy Open Mic bombs and delicious chili dogs Join camaraderie. $4 Empanadas OR $7

Tuesday, November 24

Friday, November 27

Sunday, November 29

Sunken Well, Bluegrass on the Patio, 6-8PM, 720 Littlepage

If you are reading this 280th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 24th year of continuous publication!

If you are an advertiser, list your events.

Deadline for December 2020 issue is November 20th. To submit events email frntprch@aol.com: subject Calendar

Home for the Holidays, Gari Melchers Home&Studio, Enjoy the house decorated for the holidays in the spirit and style of American Painter Gari Melchers & his talentd artist wife Corinne thru Dec. 30

Comedy and Empanadas, The Recreation Center FXBG Comedy Open Mic & Empanadas!!! FREE comedy for you as well as $5 bombs and delicious chili dogs down at The Recreation Center FXBG! Join us for non stop fun and endless camaraderie. $4 Empanadas OR $7 Empanada & Tequila shot special!!

8

Wednesday, November 25

n Center FXBG Bring your voice, your t and share with us! 7pm-10pm! Mic tween performers! Don't miss out on er supportive people here at The Rec out 1 am

Sunken Well, Trivia on the Patio, Every Wednesday, at 6:30PM, 720 Littlepage

, Every Wednesday, at 6:30PM, 720

Thursday, November 26

Virtual Lunch & Learn. w/CRRL. Learn something new from the comfort of your home. Search "Lunch" at librarypoint.org for schedules & topics

tio, Every Sunday, from 6-8PM, 720

ament and Open Mic, The Recreation

Karaoke/Open Mia, The Recreation Center FXBG Bring your voice, your instrument, your poetry, your art and share with us! Come hang with hosts Broadway and FXBG Public Radio! Drink specials from 7pm-10pm!

Mic Covers provided and sanitizing between performers! Don't miss out on the awesome atmosphere and super supportive people here at The Rec from 7pm til about 1 am

Turkey Trek, Gobble, Gobble! Turkey Day is coming up so why not come out to learn all about this cool feathered friend? Join a naturalist as we discover more about the Wild Turkey, make our own turkey calls, and look for turkey scratches. For ages 6+; adults and children both pay. Fee: . Date: November 25, 9:00-10:30 a.m. Location: Motts Run Reservoir

Thank You LibertyTown Arts Workshop for the Reminder!

3706 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

Front Porch on

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November 2020

17

history’s stories

Thanksgiving

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

I recently heard someone say that they were not looking forward to Thanksgiving as they did not have much too be thankful for in 2020. In view of all the current events with the COVID 19 and the political unrest, I firmly believe that we have much to be thankful for as we look back thru history of our nation. In his letter of December 1621 Edward Winslow wrote from Plymouth about the crops of barley and corn and the native Wampanoag Indians helping them celebrate the abundant harvest, which would become the origin of Thanksgiving.

During the Revolutionary War, George Washington called for a day in December 1777 to be set for Thanksgiving. It is claimed this was the first time all thirteen colonies celebrated the same day. Sarah Hale many called the "Mother of Thanksgiving", started a letter writing campaign in 1846 that lasted until 1863. In that year President Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, as Sarah Hale had asked for in her 17 years of letter writing. This was done during the Civil War with many thousands dead or wounded on American soil.

While many Americans celebrate Thanksgiving watching Football, little do they know that the first football game was played on November 30, 1876 between Yale and Princeton. Macy's had the first Thanksgiving day parade on Thanksgiving 1924, using live animals including elephants and a few camels from the zoo.

President Franklin Roosevelt signed a bill 1939. He originally called for November 30 to be Thanksgiving Day. The Merchants objected to this as it only allowed twenty-four shopping days until Christmas. President Roosevelt changed the bill making November 23, the official day, it was known as "Franksgiving" by some and Congress made a final change in 1941.

John Kennedy was the first President to pardon the White House Thanksgiving Turkey in November 1963, just prior to his fatal trip to Dallas where he would be killed.

Having read Lincoln's wartime Thanksgiving proclamations for the years 1863-1864, are inspiring and should be read by everyone as it inspires us to give thanks especially during times of turmoil and strife.

Thanksgiving is a special holiday to me when we give thanks to those who have assisted us in any manner and for all our friends and relatives. This year especially we should be thankful for our health and the health of our fellow man. Sometime we do not have to look far to find someone to be grateful for, many times they are sleeping next to us or working on our home, automobile, taking that x-ray, directing traffic or just picking up the trash. HAPPY THANKSGIVING Dedicated to: Kenneth Brooks, Bill Ledbetter, Fred Haun, Gene Brower & William Hall Tuffy is the Front Porch resident FXBG historian

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

18

OUR HERITAGE

November 2020

Front porch fredericksburg

drugstores By john rector Adapted by Nancy Moore from Rector's "Drug Dealing in America: A History of Colonial Medicine Sales in Fredericksburg" Fredericksburg's most famous drugstores are Hugh Mercer's Apothecary Shop and Goolrick's Modern Pharmacy. Goolrick's is still in business at 901 Caroline Street, and Mercer is remembered as a popular tourist attraction at 1020 Caroline.

Mercer's shop was actually located in the 1100 Bond's Drug Store, circa 1925. Many of block of Caroline, and he never advertised it as an Fredericksburg drug stores, like this one, were located on prominent street corners. apothecary. Mercer, like many 18th-century physicians, the families living distant from the supplied medicines.

The first to sell drugs in assistance of physicians."

Following the American Fredericksburg were William Livingston and his wife, Susannah. They were Revolution, which claimed the life of Hugh Fredericksburg's first residents, and Mercer, the drug store remained the place William was the town's first doctor. where physicians and planters obtained Livingston, who had operated a theater their drugs and chemicals. Drugs were still and an ordinary in Williamsburg, ran an chiefly imported from Great Britain. The ordinary and medicine trade here, which first half of the 19th century, however, was continued by his wife after he died in saw many changes in American life, and the drugstore would continue to evolve to 1729.

Probably Fredericksburg's first reflect those changes.

Rector mentions two black-owned actual druggist was Henry Potter, who moved here from Williamsburg in 1740. drug stores: Tate's at 318 Princess Anne His shop was likely located on the Street, operated from 1928 to 1955 by northwest corner of William and Princess Stuart Tate and his wife, Stella; and Commerce Street Drugstore, operated Anne streets. That site housed drug stores until the 1970s when Charles H. Lewis's from 1911 until about 1933 by Dr. Urbane Bass and, later, Warren Lee. It was Drugstore closed. The spot is now the located at 601 William Street. home of Hyperion Espresso.

The 1958 City Directory lists Potter was followed by William Lynn, who purchased a building on seven drugstores. The only chain store was Peoples, and it was located on Caroline Caroline Street and, in 1746, advertised "A Street. Others listed were Bond's, large quantity of Choice Drugs and Goolrick's, Lewis, Metro, and two Willis Medicines." Potter also sold such items as drug stores. candy and lead paints. This range of merchandise demonstrates that early drugstores, just like modern pharmacies, sold many items for general use. Potter's shop was located on the site of the John Rector was the son and grandson present-day Goolrick's Modern Pharmacy. of the pharmacists and owners of Until 1772, there is no indication Goolrick's Modern Pharmacy. His article, of competition in the local drug trade. The "Drug Dealing in America," was published by Historic Fredericksburg new competitor for Mercer and his Foundation's Journal of Fredericksburg partner was Charles Mortimer, Jr., who History, Vol. 6. had a shop near the City Dock. Mortimer's father was the first mayor of Fredericksburg. Both men were doctors “Brick Row, Commerce and Main Streets” and likely shared in the operation of the

by Frances Benjamin Johnston drug shop. Mortimer advertised "A large Frances Benjamin Johnston Collection, assortment of Medicines of the freshest No. 24, Library of Congress and best quality, which I propose selling

by Wholesale or retail, at the lowest rates." He also offered "medicine chests, with full directions, extremely useful to

What’s in a Future? historic preservation & clean energy By jon gerlach and combustion efficiency. If the auditor finds it safe for workers to proceed, the audit will lead to a scope of work including an estimate of cost-effectiveness - before crews come out and install the recommended measures to Department of Energy standards. A final inspection will confirm if the measures are DOE compliant. To find the right contractor, the Building Performance Institute (www.BPI.org) lists Gold Star contractors in the area. Make sure your contractor holds a Virginia Residential Building Energy Analyst License (www.dpor.virginia.gov/LicenseLookup/).

There's an old joke I like to tell. It goes like this: "How many Virginians does it take to change a light bulb? Answer: one to screw it in ‌ while the rest talk about how good the old one was."

The joke exposes a common misconception: that historic preservation and energy efficiency are incompatible. In fact, however, historic buildings can be upgraded with new materials and technologies to maximize energy performance, without compromising much, if any, historic character. Why is this important, you ask? Because it makes economic sense, and it's good for both the environment and the building's longevity.

crawlspace, are measures that can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, adding comfort and saving you money over time.

Rain barrels can capture stormwater runoff to harvest for your lawn and garden, reduce your water bills and improve the quality of our waterways.

Solar panels (see photo) on the roof of your home, business or garage, make you less reliant on the utility company while lowering your electric bills. Grants, tax credits and other incentives are available.

Of course, there's typically a recapture period for clean energy - the time it takes for your cost to be offset by the cumulative effect of lower energy bills in the future.

The old skin and bones of most any historic building can be upgraded to maximize energy efficiency: reduce your water, gas and electric bills, and require less frequent maintenance in the future.

For example, old windows can be repaired to a more energy efficient state - often at less cost than installing new windows.

Building envelope upgrades such as airsealing, and insulating the attic and

So, where do you start? Have an "Energy Audit" done of your building.

Similar to a financial audit, it evaluates the building's energy assets and liabilities.

The auditor inspects for obvious energy leaks, and any health & safety risks that would be involved in making energy upgrades. It also includes diagnostic testing: they'll check for air tightness, duct tightness, combustion appliance airflow,

A lot is happening right now with clean energy that can affect you. City officials are embarking on the goal of powering municipal operations with 100% renewable energy by 2035, and community-wide by 2050. New statewide legislation includes the Clean Economy Act, a clean energy financing program (CPACE), expanded distributed solar opportunities, and new shared solar subscription programs are coming on line.

Our City is adopting Small Area Plans and a Form Based Code that encourage environmentally-friendly "smart growth" as a new model for future real estate development, and we are looking for ways to fold clean energy measures into the Historic District. All of this is going on at the same time as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) welcomes Fredericksburg as its new member.

I believe we can transition to clean energy without losing the wonderful character of America's Most Historic City.

It's going to take a village, as they say, and you can play an important part by improving the energy efficiency of your own home or business.

So ‌ what's in a Future? Here, if we do it right, a very bright one indeed.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach serves on the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg.

"Solar Roof" Historic District photo

by Jon Gerlach.

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Senior Care CAREGIVERS IN CRISIS

By Karl Karch

We are all so inundated with coronavirus news that I almost chose a different topic. However, my home care organization, Home Instead Senior Care, is receiving an increase in inquiries for service where primary family caregivers are stressing over care for their loved ones and their inability to provide care. And so, I feel this is worth discussing.

Most Americans (roughly two thirds) believe they will be able to rely on their loved ones to meet their long-term care needs when help is required.

Unfortunately, this may not be realistic.

Over the last decade caregiving was in a crisis and that will continue through the next several decades. According to a 2010 AARP study, in 2010 there were 7 potential caregivers for every person over 80. By 2030 the ratio will decline sharply to 4 to 1 and by 2050, 3 to 1. The number of older adults 65 and older will double between 2015 and 2050 adding more than 40 million. The population over 85 will almost triple. Thanks to technology and medicine, people are living longer with more complex and chronic conditions. Household sizes are declining.

According to Pew Research Center, the number of people per household declined steadily from 5.79 way back in 1790 to an estimated 2.63 in 2018. Compound that with family members living further apart, and you have a caregiving crisis.

Now, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have a caregiver crisis.

According to a May 2020 Genworth "Caregiving in COVID-1 19: survey Consumer Sentiment Survey", one in three Americans became caregivers overnight.

The closing of schools, daycares and summer camps is upsetting the balance of home and work life. The Genworth survey found that 18% of respondents unexpectedly had to spend an additional nine hours per week aiding an older loved one or one in a vulnerable health

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category. If a loved one is in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, family caregivers have greater stress because they are unable to visit them and fear their vulnerable loved one catch COVID-19 and possibly die in the facility.

The impact of COVID-19 is causing families to focus more on where long-term care should take place. People are questioning the safety of long-term care facilities. More than half said the pandemic had forced them to confront their own (53%) and their loved ones' (65%) vulnerability and mortality. Three out of four considered this a wake-up call and resolve to make positive changes in their lives, plans for their future, and become more proactive about how they and their loved ones want to age.

Caregiving on a good day, can be stressful. Caregiving during a crisis can feel completely overwhelming. So, as a family caregiver, to manage stress: (1) Practice self-care by taking proper precautions and giving yourself a break.

(2) Stay physically active, even if only to take a short walk. (3) Vary your coping strategies by continuing to do activities you enjoy whenever possible. (4) Explore different ways to stay connected such as facetime or zoom. (5) Prepare for life after quarantine by returning to routine activities as soon as it is safe. So much in life is out of our control, even in normal times. In times of crisis you need to focus and act on things you can control and work to accept what you cannot control. .

Karl Karch is a Gerontologist and local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services in the Fredericksburg and Culpeper region.

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Dog Walking Pet Sitting Companion Play Time & Mini Furies, Too! 540-735-8228 On facebook as “City PetSitting�

Have You Tried Acupuncture?

It’s All Energy LARGE INTESTINE meridian by christina ferber

Call Now to Schedule 540.847.6985 AcupunctureFredericksburg.com

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 Dianne Bachman 540.845.7622 dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com diannebachman.com

Donate to a Cancer Organization

ble at Availa n.com Amazo

As we near the end of our yearlong journey through the Meridians, the season of Autumn is the perfect time to talk about Large Intestine Meridian. Just as the trees let go of their leaves this season, our Large Intestine Meridian (LI) is also about letting go and releasing that which we no longer need.

The Large Intestine organ has a huge role to play in the digestive process by storing, and then releasing and eliminating waste. It is also extremely important in the metabolism of water.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Lung and LI Meridians make up the Metal Element, and LI assists the lungs in controlling the skin's pores and perspiration.

When LI is imbalanced, we can experience digestive issues, abdominal pain, and even issues with the mouth, teeth, nose and throat. Because LI is all about detoxifying and cleansing the body of things we do not need, skin issues can also be associated with an imbalance in this Meridian, as well as inflammation and a lack of energy.

LI is not only about releasing physical toxins from the body, though.

When it is not working optimally, we can feel a toxicity in the mental, emotional and spiritual areas of our lives.

Emotionally, we can feel depression, grief, irritability, discouragement, and a sense of emptiness. We can also act stubbornly, be dismissive toward others, feel a need to be right all the time, resist change, and feel a sense that we need to control and hold onto things that may not be healthy for us.

However, when we have a Balanced LI, we display a sense of integrity, can release what we no longer need, show a tenderness toward others, and have a sense of reverence and an awe for life. Luckily, there are some easy ways to balance LI energy using acupoints and Eden Energy Medicine techniques. All of the following points are located on each side of your body, so be sure to work them both.

The Large Intestine Source Point can not only balance LI to help with

digestion, but also can help relieve pain, and calm a headache or sore throat. Please note however, that you DO NOT want to use this point if you are pregnant, as it has the potential to induce labor. LI 4, or The Joining of the Valleys, is located in the webbing on the back of your hand where your thumb and index finger meet (see diagram). Massage it deeply as you work with it.

The LI Neurolymphatic Points are located on the outside of your thighs (see diagram). Massage these points up and down deeply to help with digestive health and release toxins from LI. Working with LI 11 at the elbow can help with digestion, releasing feelings that are no longer needed, and calm an upset stomach. Located at the crease of the elbow in line with your index finger, you can place a finger on it and massage it deeply or cross your arms and place your thumbs on the point on each arm to get the benefit of crossing your energies at the same time.

For videos of these techniques as well as other exercises to balance your energy, visit www.itsallenergywellness.com

Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner

It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!

Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes 907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com

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Emancipated Patients

About Town

PSYCHOBOTICS

By Patrick Neustatter, MD

Are you like me and feeling a bit spazzed out by all the madness we seem to be living through?

Full Circle Researchers are coming round to the idea that "a live organism that, when ingested in adequate amounts, produces a health benefit in patients suffering from psychiatric illness" as the Oxford Academic Nutrition Review puts it.

mediated by that neurological link between brain and GI tract, the Vagus nerve.

More and more pathologies are being attributed to upsets of our microbiome - that seething mass of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea that lives with and within us.

An apple a day, even if it doesn't keep the doctor away, may keep the psychiatrist away.

Some people say the microbiome is of such size and importance, with its 20 million genes compared to the measly 20,000 contributed from human cells, that we should consider ourselves a composite "superorganism."

Have you thought about it being related to not just COVID, Q-anon, Antifa, BLM, financial hardship, isolation, the election? That it could be something to do with your intestinal microbiome?

There has been a lot of work done on animals that support the idea that what lives in your microbiome affects your mental health.

Welcome to the idea of psychobiotics, and that you can be in control of your own mental health by what you eat.

Experiments transplanting gut microbes from a depressed rodent can cause depression in the recipient for example (don't ask me how you diagnose depression in a rodent).

Microbiome and Mental Illness People have believed in a connection between the GI tract and our mental health before.

The ancient Greeks believed there was a connection between the GI tract and the seat of emotions - they talked of the four humors (black bile, yellow bile, blood and phlegm) being associated with different types of character. Specifically, an excess of black bile was associated with melancholia (hence the name).

In the Victorian era the theory of "autointoxication" gained popularity. The belief that putrefaction of the contents of your colon was poisoning you prompted treatments like the "cascade" syringe enema to provide an "internal bath." Or more drastic, stuff like like Scottish physician, Sir William Arbuthnot Lane's propensity to resect people's whole colons.

These ideas were poo-poo'd and went out of fashion. But now we seem to have come full circle.

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And there are a few studies in humans - like the one on more than 1,000 people in Belgium and Holland in whom some types of gut bacteria were consistently associated with higher quality of life. While their absence was consistently associated with depression and, interestingly, autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Further work on kids with ASD at Arizona State University reported that by treating the gastrointestinal problems of these children with a transplant of microbes from a healthy donor, they brought about improvements in language skills, social interaction and behavior.

So now the race is on to find psychobiotic organisms - the equivalent of probiotics - specifically for your mental health.

The hypothesis is they work either through epigenetic influence; by producing precursors for neurotransmitters like serotonin; or

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One last point is that what you eat predicates what's happening in your microbiome, so, as your doctor keeps telling you I'm sure, follow a good diet which in a nutshell means avoiding refined carbohydrates and processed foods.

Patrick Neustatter is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic. & Author of Managing Your Doctor The Smart Patient’s Guide to Getting Effective Affordable Healthcare. managingyourdoctor.com

Delivering Front Porch to your Neighborhoods

Working Together UMW & City team up to help prevent spread of covid by sonja cantu Fredericksburg area, a COVID-19 Joint Task Force, comprised of city officials and university administrators, began meeting weekly in August, even before their return, to ensure guideline compliance both on and off campus.

"The open dialogue of this task force between the City and UMW is very helpful for tracking the efforts and effects of COVID-19 both on campus and elsewhere in the City," said Fredericksburg Fire Chief Michael Jones.

First-y year UMW students Kylie Jones and Julia Crofford pose outside the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop in downtown Longtime partners, the University of Mary Washington and the City of Fredericksburg, have teamed up once again. This time, in an effort to slow the spread of coronavirus in the local community.

When in-person classes resumed

at UMW on Sept. 14, after a three-week delay prompted by the pandemic, the University enforced a strict "MMDC" monitor, mask, distance and clean - policy, with reminders and precautionary measures set up across campus. With large numbers of college students back in the

behavior - helps keep them accountable, and administrators have made it clear that the guidelines apply beyond campus boundaries.

While Fredericksburg Police are not in a position to enforce UMW policy, officers are charged with monitoring activity within city limits according to public safety recommendations issued by Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, and can issue reminders of University protocol.

"Our goal," Jones said, "is to publicize this ongoing effort as a means

In addition to Jones, the group includes Fredericksburg Police Chief Brian Layton and Director of Economic Bill Development Freehling, along with UMW Chief of Police Mike Hall, Assistant Director Caitlin of Athletics Moore and Director of Transfer and Off-Campus Student Services Chris Porter. "We are working together to make sure our students are doing what they should be doing," Porter said. "We are not turning a blind UMW student Caliyah Ash stands beside the James eye."

Monroe Museum in downtown Fredericksburg.

Seen as a "bridge" between the City and the University, the task force pools to help reinforce positive behaviors for personnel in an effort to share community COVID-19 safety downtown." observances and stave off issues before For more information about the they arise.

City of Fredericksburg's Covid-19 safety UMW has asked students to be efforts, www.Fredericksburgva.gov diligent in wearing masks and socialSonja Cantu, a local artist , is the Public distancing, with gatherings limited to Information Officer for the City of groups of no more than 10. An intricate Fredericksburg She can be reached at system of checks and balances - including 540-372-1010 ext. 304, or spcantu@fredericksburgva.gov an Eagle Care Ambassadors program that asks students to monitor each other's Photos courtesty of UMW

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Art in Burg Art Galleries in November

Annual 6x6 Show Libertytown Arts Workshop 916 Liberty St Mon-T Thur 10-6 6, Fri-S Sat, 11-7 7 Annual 6x6 show is happening in November!

We felt like more than ever we needed some regularity to this year.

“River”, Ariel Freeman @Art First FCCA Members Gallery, Linda Agar Hendrix All-M Media National Exhibit. 813 Sophia ST Th-F Fri, 12-4 4p; Sat 11-4 4, Sun, 1-4 4p Artful Dimensions Gallery 922 Caroline ~Sally Cooney Anderson

“We Give Thanks" Exhibit Brush Strokes Gallery 824 Caroline St. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sun11am - 5 pm. And, By Appointment

BSG artists celebrate the spirit of gratitude-for the large, small, and unexpected treasures in our lives.

Subjects of the artworks include the natural beauty , relationships w/ pets, people, places, enduring love ~Collette Caprara

“Fall at Last” The Artists' Alliance 100 Taylor St, Suite 101 Colonial Beach Our members paying homage to the season. We are Fall at Johnson House, Barbara Brennan changing our schedule in @Artist Alliance November, and will now be open Saturday and Sunday, from 11-4.

AA members are also displaying their painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, wood furniture, and basketry.

Carl and Joyce Thor continue to sell their art in the adjoining galleries. ~ Rob Rudick

Darbytown Darbytown Art Studio 241 Charles Street

“Big Blue” Hunter Perkinson @Canal Quarter Arts

"All Eyes on Fredericksburg" A Collection of Local Fredericksburg Art An All Member Show Art First 6x6 Show @LibertyTown Arts Workshop 824.Caroline Street Opening Reception First Friday 6-9 9 "All Eyes on Hunter Perkinson Fredericksburg" features iconic Canal Quarter Arts buildings, landscapes, and cityscapes of all this beautiful First Friday, November 6th, city has to offer. Whether you 11am - 7pm - Come join us on the patio at are one of the many local Canal Quarter Arts this First Friday for a collectors of Fredericksburg art special event as artist Hunter Perkinson or are new to this area this does a live demonstration on forging his show will not disappoint. beautiful iron feathers! Check out our Limited HrsTues/Sun 11a-5p Facebook event for more details! ~Lisa Gillen ~Jeannie Ellis

“Girl With the Chocolate Chunk Cookie” Beverly Toves @Brush Strokes

810 Caroline Street, Downtown 540.371.4099

“Goolricks After Hours”, Penny A Parrish 24

November 2020

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Beverley Coates

“Rappahannock Winter”, Lynn Abbott

Artist on Site Saturdays

Lynette Reed painter, fiber artist, book artist & marble artist

By Sally Cooney Anderson Says Lynette, "Creating during Covid has been a challenge. I had already decided to delve into making papier-mâché vessels that could be marbled and I chose a recipe that uses toilet paper. Then the hoarding began and I had trouble purchasing it! I am happy to say that I was able to create all of the papier-mâché pieces for the exhibit with only 2 rolls! As the months passed, I built the vessels, marbled them, collaged on them and even embellished with wire, wood, feathers, silk, felt and

Lynette Reed has been a fiber artist for 40 years, as a weaver, spinner, dyer, felter, and sculptor. She has mastered the ancient art of marbling and the art of bookbinding.

In her new show, "Made to be Marbled" - Inspirations in Papier- Mâché, Lynette displays works using several techniques, and lots of color.

paternal grandmother who was an artist.

Family on both sides, if not artists themselves, have always art appreciators and patrons. Being surrounded by that type of creative thinking and output has given me an appreciation and love of all types of mediums.

beads. Each piece incorporates both papier-mâché and marbling techniques."

"Curious.

Determined.

Uninhibited. Colorful. Adventuresome.

Playful. Serious. Mindful. Touchable.

These are just some of the words that I would use to describe the approach I take when creating my art.

“I have (almost) never met an art, craft, or technique that I haven't wanted to explore further and over time I have explored many.

“I have a degree in Fine Arts (painting and printmaking) but have been a Fiber Artist for almost 40 years as a weaver, spinner, dyer, felter and sculptor. Just recently I have made the foray into the ancient art of marbling and the art of bookbinding. Both of these pursuits have opened up new worlds in both the 2D and 3D arenas. If I had to choose I would say that the common thread that runs through all of my work is color…lots and lots of color. I am currently teaching silk scarf dyeing with two techniques and private marbling sessions.

"My world of art goes back to my childhood and the influence of my

"In 1980, I received my BFA from the University of North Dakota with an emphasis in printmaking. During that time I was also introduced to the world of fiber a arts. Today I am a painter, fiber artist, book artist and marble artist. As you can tell from this website www.bylynettereed.com I find myself moving back and forth within these mediums."

Sally Cooney Anderson is an artist

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Healing Circles INTIMATE SPACE FOR HEALING & GROWTH by aNNE hICKS

Sol Inspired Sessions (SIS) was recently created by two multi-talented and creative local women. They are givers of new opportunities to heal through yoga and sharing experiences that provide renewal, strength, growth, peace, self-care and support.

Shareia Oliver is a certified Yoga Teacher and certified Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher and Crystal Jones (together

top) is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

Both have a vision to respond to the health and welfare of the community.

They are sharing a p r o a c t i v e response to challenges of COVID and to cultural issues facing woman of color, socially, and personally. It's a new wave of light bringing justice to the injustices faced by many in these times, paving a groundbreaking path from the heart. As Jones reflects on time shared with girlfriends from college, church friends, and woman in the family, she found a desire for a healing space where there is opportunity to laugh, be yourself, heal,

share and feel held and supported in a ways that helps woman to feel bold and worthy in a scary world. She shared that

SIS was created to develop this space for women of color to heal, recharge, and grow using ancestral wisdoms, yoga, quigong, meditation, dance, holistic nutrition, gardening and more with the hope to allow the practice of self-care now and to pass it down through the generations.

helps them convey that message to their sister."

Oliver shared how it helped her step out of the comfort zone and truly walk in her purpose as she finds the desire and to continually improve the program.

She is dedicated to inspiring and making positive impacts on all who join the circle.

Oliver envisioned bringing service to women and found a path forward after Jones reached out in June this year. She knew that being heard is important and found what she was looking for in the healing circle practice. They both share themes in the circle, and they promote time for sharing on a one on one basis where there is one speaker and one active listener. She loves sharing and hopes to reach more woman offering an intimate space for healing and growth.

The venue, (sista) to sister is genuine response to recalling the past, living in the present and providing for our future women. It's an experience I felt in person and still feel through the words Jones shared about where they are taking these healing circles: "As the opportunity arises, we would love to share this gift in spaces that are welcoming of it. We've been asked to replicate this circle for some organizations. Right now, outside in my yard, under the vastness of the sky, embraced by nature feels really good."

She continued, that for us as black woman and woman of color, just by showing up, we affirm that we are worthy of community, rest, and time to care for ourselves.

There is a presence of intuition, understanding and vibrant but comforting connection in this service. Jones shared, "We are givers and love sharing. The exchange of gifts is an important component of SIS. People have shared journals, crystals, paintings, handmade items, and any expression of love that

Anne Hicks is a contributing writer and a certified yoga teacher.

Highlighting Local People, Places & Events Since 1997 26

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Behind the Scenes Meet Our 1st class sales staff Mandy Smith the relationships I've built simply because of what I do. I've seen businesses grow from the idea stage right up to becoming the most successful business of their category in the market. It's exciting and humbling to be part of the process. The best part?

Watching our clients' businesses grow more and more, year after year.”

It's November and as I look around at the people I work with, I'm thankful. I'm thankful we have a staff that truly likes and respects one another. We goof around with each other, have family lunches, and laugh all the time. That type of feeling does not just stay in the building, it extends to the clients we work with and the businesses we love to support. I wanted to take this opportunity

to introduce you to our First-Class Sales Staff.

Debbie Patten “Hi, I'm Debbie - the resident Irish woman! I started my radio career in Ireland and have been working in radio in the Fredericksburg market now for over 24 years. I feel very lucky to not only work for an amazing company, but for all

Kathleen Owens “I've been with B101.5 and NewsTalk1230 since 1998.

I love watching advertisers grow their business with the help of our stations. We're fortunate to be the most listened to station in the Fredericksburg market, which makes it an easy decision for advertisers to work with us.”

Kristin Nash “Hi I'm Kristin. You may have heard me on the radio over the last 20 years. I love radio! As a jock, I've seen what radio and a good branding campaign can do for a business. I watched a local plumber go from one truck to six trucks! So, it was an easy move for me to slide into the sales department as well as continue being on the air. The absolute best part about our marketing team is that we get to share in each other's successes. We know that every time we create something creative and special for a customer, we have the potential to change their business and impact the community we all love” .

Lance D. Carmine “Hi I'm Lance! I've worked in media sales for over 28 years: newspaper, billboards, T.V., and radio; with most of my time in radio. I love being a radio sales rep with B101.5 and WFVA because in this media market these stations are the best, and they WORK!! I've seen and I

continue to see businesses in our area grow their business and receive great Return on Investment (ROI) by advertising with us. B101.5 and WFVA are great stations and we really help businesses grow!!”

Monica Owens “Hello I'm Monica, i.e. Marketing Monica.

Your local Marketing Psychologist. How is your marketing making you feel? With over 20 years with B101.5/ Newstalk 1230, I've seen and heard just about everything. The B is family and I love the way the company treats its employees and our clients like family; only wanting the best for everyone.”

Mark Bass, Market Manager “I often get inquiries from colleagues in other radio markets on how we continue to do well year after year.

Especially during what some say, is a tough time for traditional radio. The answer is a simple one, our sales representatives are a resource, not a vendor. We take pride in offering ideas rather than the same "package" over and over again.

The team is the most experienced in the market by far, and together they have hundreds of years of experience. They also genuinely care about their clients and each other; this is truly a work family that comes together in bad times and celebrates every win.

Our unique and local focused programming, combined with this sales team, make this operation a force to be reckoned with.”

Mandy Smith is the Promotions & Marketing Director for B101.5. AKA "AJ" Weekend Air Personality

Give a Child Something to Think About

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

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684 front porch fredericksburg

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Companion happy fall y’all

by Gerri Reid dvm

The air is crisp and the leaves are starting to change into the most beautiful hues of red, yellow and orange! Fall is Here! For our pets, it is a great time of the year to enjoy the outdoors. Whether our pets are hanging outside with us while we do the lawn/garden or running in and out of the raked leaves, Fall is the best time of the year for them! So what do we as pet owners need to know about caring for our pets during the Fall? Here's some tips to Keeping Our Furry Friends Healthy in the Fall!

Let's start with the Basics for caring for your pet. Remember to keep your pet's vaccines up to date. Please keep your pet on monthly heartworm and flea/tick prevention. Many people think mosquitoes/fleas die off during the cooler months but this is untrue. Heartworm disease is still being transmitted by mosquitoes despite the temperature and fleas are still outside waiting to jump on their next meal. So, it's that simple. Keep them on these preventions year-round.

It is not just the little bugs we have to worry about but also the dangers that lurk outside for our pets. With the leaved piling up on the ground, this is perfect hiding spot for snakes. Be mindful when you and your pet are walking thru the wood or in your back yard. It is best to clear any leaves/brush from your yard as to avoid any encounter with snakes.

Snake bites are very common during this season, so before you or your pet jump in that pile of leaves, beware of snakes!

Beware of our Eight-Legged Furry Friend hiding out in there. Spiders such as Black Widows are commonly seen in boxes, clothes or in firewood. Be sure to check these areas closely for the safety of yourself and your pet.

As we begin to entertain our friends and family within the restrictions/guidelines of COVID-19, the holiday is filled with all our favorite meals and treats. It is the time of the year where Animal Hospitals see many cases complaining of upset tummy or diarrhea/vomiting. Pets are notorious to get into the trash or eat things they should not resulting in a visit to the Vet. When entertaining, please remind your family and friends to not feed your pet.

With many activities cancelled or modified due to COVID-19, we can still enjoy all the wonders of Fall. Remember to keep your pet on monthly Heartworm and Flea/Tick Prevention. Cleaning up any leaves in our yard will prevent your pet from encountering any surprises such as snakes. And when it comes to entertaining for the holidays, stick to feeding your pets their own food. Fall in Line and follow these tips so we can keep our pets Happy & Healthy!

Gerri S. Reid is the Owner/Veterinarian of Reid Mobile Veterinary Services. has been named “2020 Best Veterinarian in the “Burg, 540-623-3029; reidmobilevetservices.com

Many of us are doing a lot of cleaning since COVID-19 has forced us to stay home more. Perfect time to clean out the garage and get things more organized.

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Astrology & You

THE POETRY MAN

Scorpio season

By Frank Fratoe

By Dianne Bachman

Bright Stream As night clears after rain where Smith Run is alive secluded without haziness, stones under the current flare and dance together below the liquid moonlight.

Mystery and awe come back that humans had understood when they lived in nature, but then somehow put aside inheriting the assurance held forth by civilization.

Even lacking a cloudburst water would run on-and-on through the lengthy woods, for it remains persistent not unlike our remembrance of a past which goes ahead.

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

The first day of November finds the Sun in Scorpio, when all of nature is drawing inward, preparing for the return of darkness. The daylight grows shorter and we fluff our downy blankets, stack firewood, and stoke the furnaces that warm our hearths. Reds, yellows, and greens soon wilt and wither to brown austere landscapes and we can feel Pluto at work. As Taurus and her ruling planet Venus heralded the greening last spring, certainly Scorpio season works the earth in preparation for the cycle of decay.

There is a somber undertone to these first weeks of November, a time to go within and reflect on what is no longer useful in our lives.

With the outer world distractions quieted down for the season, it certainly supports a journey of the soul.

I do believe that sometimes Scorpio gets a bad rap, but of course I could be biased because it is my rising sign and some of my favorite relatives have strong Pluto/Scorpio influences in their natal charts. So, what is to like about Scorpio?

Well, in general Scorpio can reflect a deep, soulful, and highly intuitive nature. Nothing superficial about them, Scorpio has an uncanny and for sure! unflinching ability to dig deeply for any hidden truth.

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progresses to the 22nd, the Sun turns to Sagittarius, ruled by the planet Jupiter.

More expansive and cheery seeming than the previous sign, Sagittarius brings a renewed enthusiasm, a yearning for learning and travel and all that waxes philosophical. Whether it is a country church or the twinkling cathedral that is the night sky, Sagittarius can open the mind and the heart to the inspiration of a higher power.

Our other powerful luminary, the Moon, will find herself in the sign of Scorpio on November 15. This will be the new Moon when the night is very dark and seemingly empty. But don't let the lack of moonbeams fool you. This new moon is full of possibilities and in the sign of Scorpio we focus on the intensity of transformational new beginnings.

A powerful practice is to set intentions for what it is you might like to work on. As the Moon waxes it brings light and a consciousness to the process of growth and change.

our political process. As Mercury travels forward, it will enter the sign of Scorpio on November 10, deepening the conversations, opening the potential for transformative interchanges.

Mars will station direct on November 14 in the sign of Aries, which it rules. Time to move forward! But also, a time when the intensity that has been pent up with the retrograde cold burst forth, maybe feeling a bit heady and impulsive. Anyone wanting to start a new project could use this energy as momentum to get things off the ground, as it lends itself to adventure, courage and confidence.

Venus will enter Scorpio of November 21, and on the 27th will oppose Uranus in the sign of Taurus. What first comes to my mind when I see this aspect is the opportunity to transform our relationships to the things we value. This could be money, the earth, those we are in relationship with.

Innovation and inventiveness are supported by this opposition, but not without some tension and possible sudden surprises.

The Full Moon will occur on November 30 in the sign of Gemini and will be a time to follow the watery, emotional properties of the new Moon intentions to a more grounded, logical place. What has been germinating in the depths can now be brought into consciousness and acted upon. This full moon will also be a penumbral eclipse, so you may not notice any dramatic visual effects.

Neptune will station direct in the sign of Pisces on November 28, after being in retrograde since June 23. Neptune can bring about a foggy kind of feel, making it difficult to see the outer world clearly.

What a perfect way to end the month of November with the Neptunian healing power of music and song. Illusive, dreamy, and boundless, Neptune teaches us how to be quiet and to listen to that still, small voice within.

Mercury will station direct in the sign of Libra on November 3, which is our Election Day. Though we will continue to be in the shadow of retrograde for a few weeks, at this writing I am keeping my fingers crossed that the energy of balanced and harmonious Libra will infuse

Diane Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. Reach her at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com Painting from Book of Hours, The Fastolf Master, C. 1440-1450

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Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

Happy November! Those of you who know my work know that my sketchbooks are also journals. I used to have separate books for drawing and writing but when I began to sketch more often, I found that it was expedient to combine them.

I usually write about what was happening when I made the sketch, who I was with, where we were, the date, the temperature-that sort of thing.

Occasionally I would write something more personal.

This month's sketch has a lot of meaning for me. I confess to using a friend as a model but disguised by my inability to capture a likeness.

What I did want to capture though was the event. Here is what I wrote on the page: In this crazy year of uncertainty, I used an absentee ballot to vote in both the local election in May and the national one for president. Like the person in this sketch, I chose to vote early and to use the convenient drop box outside City Hall.

This was the first time I've ever voted absentee but back in the spring quarantine I signed up for the November election at the same time as the local one.

My ballot arrived a couple weeks ago on a Saturday so first thing Monday morning I dropped it in the box. I've already checked online and it was marked as received so I guess I'm good. Now we wait.

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

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From My Porch gratitude for all By collette caprara

Once Upon a Time, before our world took a fateful tumble down the rabbit hole, I had been writing a series of articles on vestiges of sites that were once a hub of activity and meaning for our community. These included a dirt-covered tile platform in an empty lot, which was once the floor of the Brush Strokes art gallery, and the additional parking places behind our library that cover the site of what was once the office of a dentist who served many of the workers at the cellophane factory that provided jobs to many residents of the Burg in the 1930s.

Today, that series could be vastly expanded, given that virtually every building and site is a reminder of the yesteryear that existed until last March!

As I walk through town, nearly every spot that comes into view brings a wistful sense of nostalgia. I look to the location of "my" table in the window of Hyperion, where I had penned a multitude of articles on community topics-inspired, perhaps, by the same muse that sparked the creativity of a UMW poet laureate and a creative writing professor and novelist.

The folks who became friends through that beloved coffee clutch stream through my mind.

As I cross the street to the Fredericksburg Area Museum, I peek down into Market Square-now empty with bordering trees that are turning fall colors, but one filled with the conversations and laughter of crowds in their camp chairs awaiting the featured performers of a "Sounds of Summer" concert. And just a few short blocks away, I stop to view the library whose front yard had been transformed each Mondayevening throughout the summers

to a public stage, presenting the delightful performances of the Music on the Steps musicians.

A large percentage of that wistful, nostalgic feeling is comprised of gratitude and a sincere delight in the spectrum of personalities of folks in the Burg-emotions that are heightened through the lens of memories.

Yet new treasures have emerged throughout these months of social separation. think everyone has experienced a deeper appreciation of those who have always had a special place in our hearts: folks in the community, friends and family who live in different areas of the country and world, and those who have passed on but who are vivid in our memories.

Nature also has taken on a new vital role in our lives with its beauty, and constancy amidst its continual changes. A sunrise or sunset is now a special gift, as is the beauty of our Rappahannock and the many different personalities it emanates at different times of the day and different seasons of the year. And, as always, the gift of tiny wildflowers can be found on the riverbanks and woodland floor, each of which has emerged to their fullest fruition with perfect patterns of petals, even though no human being may never arrive on the scene to appreciate it.

And, of course, there is the joy of children, whose giggles, and skipping, and footraces evidence the confidence that all is right and wonderful.

And while so many venues have closed for the duration, a new one has emerged to take on a key, inspiring role in our lives. Its host is called Zoom and he provides opportunities for face-to-face exchanges and communication in groups that range from my ever-enthusiastic and optimistic boss and coworkers, to fellow artists of my art gallery, to the members of study and discussion groups as well, as sessions of yoga and meditation-not to mention visits with our son in Japan or monthly chats with my best friends from high school and kindergarten! In fact, earlier this year Zoom hosted a

nationwide 96th Birthday Celebration for my husband's mom where she could talk in real time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren throughout the country.

So, for all those beautiful gatherings and people, I give thanks.

Collette Caprara is a local artist & writer photo by Collette

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