YOUR GUIDE TO THE LOCAL GOOD LIFE
front porch T H E R E G I O N ' S free C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E
L o c a l G o o d N e w s S i n c e 1 9 97 YEAR 20 • ISSUE 230 • SEPTEMBER 2016
Frontporchfredericksburg.com
contents
closeups
18
history’s stories.: fxbg courthouse 1852 our heritage: wet or dry? prohibition in the ‘burg
19
art attack: artists taking it to the streets sept 17
20
companions: ‘american exceptionalism
21
emancipated patients: american indian culture mind your mind: emotional abuse
22
Senior Care: brain games
23
WELLNESS: earthwalk ways Renew: computer hunch
24
christine lush rodriquez
25
mYSTERY hOUSE stories of fredericksburg: dd lecky
28
homeschooling 101 poetryman: our ‘74 mustang
Frank Fratoe: the poetryman
30
4
fredericksburg sketches palozza!
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
31
5
On the trails:: fxbg area running club
from my porch tonya butcher: kingdom inspiration studio
7
downtown buzz: promoting downtown
6
Meet Tim Baroody
new fxbg city manager 9
27
Kimberly Leone ...Fxbg Theatre Ensemble ben radman for volunteer
9
porch talk .3
10
meet gen lafayette!
11
defying physics: david Lovegrove
12
vino: wine decanting
13
season’s bounty: see you in september
14
Cooking with Kyle...turkey wraps sPIRITS: mojito duo
15 16-17
Calendar of events
15
19
...And more! 8
flora, fauna & fred...gaglio & green exhibit
15
legume: veteran chefs open new kitchen & bar
26
world peace mural tour
Cover: “The Leaning Tower of Purina Descending StaircaseS” by David Lovegrove
2
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
Frank Fratoe The “Poetryman” By A.E.Bayne
Seven years ago in June of 2009, the first of Frank Fratoe’s poems filled a corner box in Front Porch Magazine with short, sentimental verse under the moniker The PoetryMan. Fratoe piqued Rob Grogan’s interest after sending him a manuscript of poems he had written about people and places around Fredericksburg, and eighty-six poems later he continues to delight and inspire readers with his column each month. Fratoe grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and earned his B.A. in philosophy from Ohio State University. He then studied sociology at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned masters and doctoral degrees. While valuing his education, he adds, “My informal education has come from early jobs, college teaching, and a 25-year career with the federal government, but mostly from sharing other people’s company.” Fratoe met his wife Jane in New Jersey, and raised two sons with her while living in Springfield, Virginia and working at the Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. It was here that Fratoe
did much of this formal writing, compiling research reports focusing on issues related education, entrepreneurship, training and employment, several of which won him honors for his work. Of his poetry, however, Fratoe says Jane was his first inspiration. “I put together a manuscript of poems I wrote for her from the first time that we dated in 1975 until she passed away in 1998, and then some after her death as well. Every time there was a special occasion, an anniversary, a birthday, I wrote a poem. In the early days, I would write them on a card and mail them to her, but after we started to live with one another I’d pass them along to her. My early attempts at poetry were inspired by Jane and, in a way, they still are because my poems celebrate life, something she did very well every day we were together.” AfterJane’s death in 1998, and after his sons left home, Fratoe retired to Fredericksburg where he was inspired by its people and places. He says, “Fredericksburg got me back into writing poetry after retirement. I do a lot of walking, as there are so many beautiful
streets in this town and so many beautiful spots. There’s a spot over on Fall Hill Road where it meets River Road, and I will go over there and sit and look out over the river for quite some time. I’ve probably written about a dozen poems from that area alone.” Fratoe is inspired by poets in the vein of Whitman and Wordsworth, Oliver and Berry. He has written nearly 600 poems by hand, saying, “I can’t think very well in front of a keyboard or touchscreen, so I do it the old fashioned way. It flows out of you, comes right out of your mind, flows down through your fingers and onto the page.” He muses, “I hope handwriting is not a thing of the past.” Fratoe says he is grateful for the opportunity offered to him by Rob and Virginia Grogan to publish in Front Porch Magazine each month. Initially, he wished only for a place to share his poems with
his community, but he has been delighted with the outcome and response from the community over the years. He adds, “I love writing poetry. It’s so enjoyable, and it’s a lot of work to get a poem the right way, to say what you want it to say.” In Frank Fratoe’s case, that’s quite a lot. A.E. Bayne is a writer, visual artists, and educator living in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She publishes Fredericksburg Literary and Art Review in November and May each year. Photo by A.E.Bayne
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
3
contents
closeups
18
history’s stories.: fxbg courthouse 1852 our heritage: wet or dry? prohibition in the ‘burg
19
art attack: artists taking it to the streets sept 17
20
companions: ‘american exceptionalism
21
emancipated patients: american indian culture mind your mind: emotional abuse
22
Senior Care: brain games
23
WELLNESS: earthwalk ways Renew: computer hunch
24
christine lush rodriquez
25
mYSTERY hOUSE stories of fredericksburg: dd lecky
28
homeschooling 101 poetryman: our ‘74 mustang
Frank Fratoe: the poetryman
30
4
fredericksburg sketches palozza!
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
31
5
On the trails:: fxbg area running club
from my porch tonya butcher: kingdom inspiration studio
7
downtown buzz: promoting downtown
6
Meet Tim Baroody
new fxbg city manager 9
27
Kimberly Leone ...Fxbg Theatre Ensemble ben radman for volunteer
9
porch talk .3
10
meet gen lafayette!
11
defying physics: david Lovegrove
12
vino: wine decanting
13
season’s bounty: see you in september
14
Cooking with Kyle...turkey wraps sPIRITS: mojito duo
15 16-17
Calendar of events
15
19
...And more! 8
flora, fauna & fred...gaglio & green exhibit
15
legume: veteran chefs open new kitchen & bar
26
world peace mural tour
Cover: “The Leaning Tower of Purina Descending StaircaseS” by David Lovegrove
2
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
Frank Fratoe The “Poetryman” By A.E.Bayne
Seven years ago in June of 2009, the first of Frank Fratoe’s poems filled a corner box in Front Porch Magazine with short, sentimental verse under the moniker The PoetryMan. Fratoe piqued Rob Grogan’s interest after sending him a manuscript of poems he had written about people and places around Fredericksburg, and eighty-six poems later he continues to delight and inspire readers with his column each month. Fratoe grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and earned his B.A. in philosophy from Ohio State University. He then studied sociology at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned masters and doctoral degrees. While valuing his education, he adds, “My informal education has come from early jobs, college teaching, and a 25-year career with the federal government, but mostly from sharing other people’s company.” Fratoe met his wife Jane in New Jersey, and raised two sons with her while living in Springfield, Virginia and working at the Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. It was here that Fratoe
did much of this formal writing, compiling research reports focusing on issues related education, entrepreneurship, training and employment, several of which won him honors for his work. Of his poetry, however, Fratoe says Jane was his first inspiration. “I put together a manuscript of poems I wrote for her from the first time that we dated in 1975 until she passed away in 1998, and then some after her death as well. Every time there was a special occasion, an anniversary, a birthday, I wrote a poem. In the early days, I would write them on a card and mail them to her, but after we started to live with one another I’d pass them along to her. My early attempts at poetry were inspired by Jane and, in a way, they still are because my poems celebrate life, something she did very well every day we were together.” AfterJane’s death in 1998, and after his sons left home, Fratoe retired to Fredericksburg where he was inspired by its people and places. He says, “Fredericksburg got me back into writing poetry after retirement. I do a lot of walking, as there are so many beautiful
streets in this town and so many beautiful spots. There’s a spot over on Fall Hill Road where it meets River Road, and I will go over there and sit and look out over the river for quite some time. I’ve probably written about a dozen poems from that area alone.” Fratoe is inspired by poets in the vein of Whitman and Wordsworth, Oliver and Berry. He has written nearly 600 poems by hand, saying, “I can’t think very well in front of a keyboard or touchscreen, so I do it the old fashioned way. It flows out of you, comes right out of your mind, flows down through your fingers and onto the page.” He muses, “I hope handwriting is not a thing of the past.” Fratoe says he is grateful for the opportunity offered to him by Rob and Virginia Grogan to publish in Front Porch Magazine each month. Initially, he wished only for a place to share his poems with
his community, but he has been delighted with the outcome and response from the community over the years. He adds, “I love writing poetry. It’s so enjoyable, and it’s a lot of work to get a poem the right way, to say what you want it to say.” In Frank Fratoe’s case, that’s quite a lot. A.E. Bayne is a writer, visual artists, and educator living in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She publishes Fredericksburg Literary and Art Review in November and May each year. Photo by A.E.Bayne
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
3
Kevin Brown
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Barbara Anderson A.E.Bayne Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Barbara Deal Ryan Davis Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Joan M. Geisler Ann Glave Alexis Grogan Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Emily Hollingsworth Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Jo Loving Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter Ryan Poe Gabe Pons M.L. Powers Scott Richards Suzanne Scherr Casey Alan Shaw Meg Sneed Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Christine Thompson Thea Verdak Dawn Whitmore Kathryn Willis Norma Woodward Elizabeth Woodford
Front Porch Fredericksburg is a free circulation magazine published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co. Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher.
The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people. Messages from our readers are welcome. All submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers are welcome to request Writer’s Guidelines and query the Editor by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers. Copyright 2016 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
On the Trails
September 2016
spotlight on the fredericksburg running club
Riverside
By Kevin Brown
BY kevin brown Isn’t Fredericksburg a neighborly city? We think so! After years of living in military base housing and variety of suburbs, my wife Susan and I finally purchased a riverfront house last year within the Fredericksburg city limits. As we began settling into our home, we set out to get to know our neighbors and learn about our area history. We live in a community between the Rappahannock River and US Route 1 that is often referred to as Old Fairgrounds, and sometimes also Normandy Village. Given the ambiguity of our neighborhood designation, a few of us like to refer to our community as “Riverside”, since we live next to an amazingly beautiful river. We asked city officials if this reference was allowed, and were informed that Fredericksburg neighborhood names are not necessarily set in stone. It is true that large-scale communities such as The Estates of Idlewild have been named by developers and will likely never change. However, smaller, disparately-evolved communities have changed designation throughout history, such as Doswell Field, Fall Hill, The Island, and The Mill District. Apparently, neighborhood titles over time can and do overlap, and perhaps that’s acceptable as long as we continue to remember historic designations of sentimental value. Our neighborhood is characterized geographically by its close Falls of the proximity to the Rappahannock River and River Heritage Trail. It is within walking distance to Historic Downtown, the University of Mary Washington, the Mary Washington Hospital, and the Central Park Shopping Center. The land upon which our neighborhood sits is steeped in history. For centuries before the Europeans arrived, Indian tribes gathered here for large communal gatherings and fishing extravaganzas. In the early 1600s, John Smith halted his expedition here when the rocky falls prevented further passage. During the Civil War, Rebel forces manned the river bank here as the Union occupied the northern side (an overlook on the river bank is still referred to by locals as “Yankee Spy”). Much of our neighborhood property was part of the majestic Fall Hill estate/plantation during the 1700s/1800s, which was also a time when numerous industrial mills were built, operated, and later abandoned along the river. For many years in the late
Front porch fredericksburg
Own The Movie A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.
DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave. 1800s/early 1900s, the Rappahannock Valley Agricultural and Mechanical Society’s Fair was held here with a horseracing track and balloon rides overlooking the river and city. In 1940, the land was auctioned, after which individual homes began cropping up. In the post-war 1950s, a large area was cleared and developed into Normandy Village. This suburb provided affordable family housing for a bustling and closeknit group of young Marine Corps, FBI, and other government workers, as well as quite a few locals. In the late 1950s/early 1960s, the Fairgrounds-Normandy Village civic organization bonded together in creating the “original “ Riverfront Park along Fall Hill Ave (on land leased from Butler-Brayne Franklin of the Fall Hill Estate) with a playground and picnic area, and gathered for frequent neighborhood social parties at the VFW. Today, almost all of our original neighborhood homes still remain. Like those who came before, we like to think of ourselves as a close-knit, warm community with friendly neighbors like Eddie and Kim Crosslin, who openly invite the public to stop by and visit their “Chairs on the Rivah”. We welcome newcomers, and look out for our elderly neighbors and each other’s children and pets. We regularly pick up trash discarded by recreational passersby, float down the river and stroll the trails together, and invite each other to house parties. We stay in close touch about various community issues via neighborhood social media groups and personal home visits.
As much as we enjoy our Riverside neighborhood as it is today, we are excited to be working with the city to make it even better. Our City Council and new City Manager are engaging neighborhoods in addressing issues related to their surroundings. City Council Initiative / Goal Area 2: Character of the City and Neighborhoods cites... "Extensive resident and property owner involvement" as the #1 characteristic of the new Area Plan Initiative." Implementation of this neighborhoodfocused goal is well underway, starting with Area 3 and Area 6 (which includes our community). In this process, “neighborhood expectations” are being solicited via meetings and email (input currently being accepted at fredericksburg@streetsense.com) where residents are being asked what they like about their communities and what improvements needs to be made. Out of this effort, the city is seeking to identify developmental and procedural opportunities that will enhance our neighborhoods.
This month we turn our attention to an ever-present group of local trail users, the Fredericksburg Area Running Club (FARC). In response to our interview, Marine Corps Marathon Office Deputy and FARC member Angela Anderson shares her personal testimony. “Why do I love FARC? Several years ago, I decided to run a marathon and was scared to death about how to accomplish this goal. I joined FARC because I saw the group at Hyperion coffee shop on Saturdays at 8am. One morning as I was slowly running by, one of the runners smiled at me and asked me to join them. Right away I felt welcomed to the group! I instantly made running friends who soon invited me to join them for marathon training. This group made me confident that I could complete both the training and the marathon. The camaraderie was unmatched, and I became so hooked into long distance running that I never stopped. FARC helped me accomplish my goal of running my first marathon. When I run in the city, my route
invariably includes the Heritage Trail and Canal Path. I never tire of that scenic setting. Nature puts on a wonderful show between the beautiful Rappahannock River, the trees and wild flowers and the animals. There are beautiful birds, turtles sunning themselves on the rocks, and bunnies and squirrels quickly crossing! Of course, I like seeing people on the trails too! I enjoy viewing kids out riding their bikes, people walking their dogs, and all my fellow runners. For longer peaceful runs, Lee Drive and the VCR trail offer a wonderful environment. They are mostly shaded and quiet. There are historic site markers along those trails, and I can stop and learn things I did not know about the city. So while running, I also get a history lesson too. Needless to say, I'm very grateful to be able to use the Fredericksburg area trails, and feel so fortunate to live in this beautiful city!” In response to our interview, we learned more from FARC Secretary Sara Perez. “The FARC believes that running enhances both the health and happiness of its participants. The club promotes and encourages recreational running in the Fredericksburg community through education of the community on the benefits of physical fitness and sport. We hold group runs, fun runs, track championships, and many local road races; put on lectures, demonstrations, and social events; publish newsletters; conduct fund raising events; donate to scholarship funds and support numerous non-profit organizations in the Fredericksburg area. FARC is a registered non-profit organization and a member of the Road Runners Club of America. Rappahannock Ospreys The youth running club is also a part of FARC, open to children ages 9-18. Coached by John Dachos and Chris Ernandes, this group practices each Tuesday and
Thursday at Pratt Park. The Ospreys participate in numerous area track events and road races. Goals are to expose young runners to running, leadership roles, healthy life style, assignment to strong role models/mentors, and community involvement. Ospreys are encouraged to use slower runs on the trails to help runners relax and recover from hard workouts/races, while also buddying up on the trails to help build team identity. Interested runners can learn more about FARC membership by visiting www.runfarc.com or by visiting the club’s Facebook page. The FARC monthly newsletter is located at https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxq3qvK 2h5AoU1BjZ2FfM2hlc1U/view.” Kevin Brown shares up-to-date local trail news and photos as administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails" Facebook Group
We hope all our readers enjoy their neighborhoods as much as we do. If you don’t like something, join together with your neighbors and city leaders to make improvements. Finally, when you need to relax and take a break, pull up a chair with a neighbor and read the Front Porch cover to cover!
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
5
Kevin Brown
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Barbara Anderson A.E.Bayne Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Barbara Deal Ryan Davis Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Joan M. Geisler Ann Glave Alexis Grogan Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Emily Hollingsworth Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Jo Loving Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter Ryan Poe Gabe Pons M.L. Powers Scott Richards Suzanne Scherr Casey Alan Shaw Meg Sneed Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Christine Thompson Thea Verdak Dawn Whitmore Kathryn Willis Norma Woodward Elizabeth Woodford
Front Porch Fredericksburg is a free circulation magazine published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co. Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher.
The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people. Messages from our readers are welcome. All submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers are welcome to request Writer’s Guidelines and query the Editor by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers. Copyright 2016 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
On the Trails
September 2016
spotlight on the fredericksburg running club
Riverside
By Kevin Brown
BY kevin brown Isn’t Fredericksburg a neighborly city? We think so! After years of living in military base housing and variety of suburbs, my wife Susan and I finally purchased a riverfront house last year within the Fredericksburg city limits. As we began settling into our home, we set out to get to know our neighbors and learn about our area history. We live in a community between the Rappahannock River and US Route 1 that is often referred to as Old Fairgrounds, and sometimes also Normandy Village. Given the ambiguity of our neighborhood designation, a few of us like to refer to our community as “Riverside”, since we live next to an amazingly beautiful river. We asked city officials if this reference was allowed, and were informed that Fredericksburg neighborhood names are not necessarily set in stone. It is true that large-scale communities such as The Estates of Idlewild have been named by developers and will likely never change. However, smaller, disparately-evolved communities have changed designation throughout history, such as Doswell Field, Fall Hill, The Island, and The Mill District. Apparently, neighborhood titles over time can and do overlap, and perhaps that’s acceptable as long as we continue to remember historic designations of sentimental value. Our neighborhood is characterized geographically by its close Falls of the proximity to the Rappahannock River and River Heritage Trail. It is within walking distance to Historic Downtown, the University of Mary Washington, the Mary Washington Hospital, and the Central Park Shopping Center. The land upon which our neighborhood sits is steeped in history. For centuries before the Europeans arrived, Indian tribes gathered here for large communal gatherings and fishing extravaganzas. In the early 1600s, John Smith halted his expedition here when the rocky falls prevented further passage. During the Civil War, Rebel forces manned the river bank here as the Union occupied the northern side (an overlook on the river bank is still referred to by locals as “Yankee Spy”). Much of our neighborhood property was part of the majestic Fall Hill estate/plantation during the 1700s/1800s, which was also a time when numerous industrial mills were built, operated, and later abandoned along the river. For many years in the late
Front porch fredericksburg
Own The Movie A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.
DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave. 1800s/early 1900s, the Rappahannock Valley Agricultural and Mechanical Society’s Fair was held here with a horseracing track and balloon rides overlooking the river and city. In 1940, the land was auctioned, after which individual homes began cropping up. In the post-war 1950s, a large area was cleared and developed into Normandy Village. This suburb provided affordable family housing for a bustling and closeknit group of young Marine Corps, FBI, and other government workers, as well as quite a few locals. In the late 1950s/early 1960s, the Fairgrounds-Normandy Village civic organization bonded together in creating the “original “ Riverfront Park along Fall Hill Ave (on land leased from Butler-Brayne Franklin of the Fall Hill Estate) with a playground and picnic area, and gathered for frequent neighborhood social parties at the VFW. Today, almost all of our original neighborhood homes still remain. Like those who came before, we like to think of ourselves as a close-knit, warm community with friendly neighbors like Eddie and Kim Crosslin, who openly invite the public to stop by and visit their “Chairs on the Rivah”. We welcome newcomers, and look out for our elderly neighbors and each other’s children and pets. We regularly pick up trash discarded by recreational passersby, float down the river and stroll the trails together, and invite each other to house parties. We stay in close touch about various community issues via neighborhood social media groups and personal home visits.
As much as we enjoy our Riverside neighborhood as it is today, we are excited to be working with the city to make it even better. Our City Council and new City Manager are engaging neighborhoods in addressing issues related to their surroundings. City Council Initiative / Goal Area 2: Character of the City and Neighborhoods cites... "Extensive resident and property owner involvement" as the #1 characteristic of the new Area Plan Initiative." Implementation of this neighborhoodfocused goal is well underway, starting with Area 3 and Area 6 (which includes our community). In this process, “neighborhood expectations” are being solicited via meetings and email (input currently being accepted at fredericksburg@streetsense.com) where residents are being asked what they like about their communities and what improvements needs to be made. Out of this effort, the city is seeking to identify developmental and procedural opportunities that will enhance our neighborhoods.
This month we turn our attention to an ever-present group of local trail users, the Fredericksburg Area Running Club (FARC). In response to our interview, Marine Corps Marathon Office Deputy and FARC member Angela Anderson shares her personal testimony. “Why do I love FARC? Several years ago, I decided to run a marathon and was scared to death about how to accomplish this goal. I joined FARC because I saw the group at Hyperion coffee shop on Saturdays at 8am. One morning as I was slowly running by, one of the runners smiled at me and asked me to join them. Right away I felt welcomed to the group! I instantly made running friends who soon invited me to join them for marathon training. This group made me confident that I could complete both the training and the marathon. The camaraderie was unmatched, and I became so hooked into long distance running that I never stopped. FARC helped me accomplish my goal of running my first marathon. When I run in the city, my route
invariably includes the Heritage Trail and Canal Path. I never tire of that scenic setting. Nature puts on a wonderful show between the beautiful Rappahannock River, the trees and wild flowers and the animals. There are beautiful birds, turtles sunning themselves on the rocks, and bunnies and squirrels quickly crossing! Of course, I like seeing people on the trails too! I enjoy viewing kids out riding their bikes, people walking their dogs, and all my fellow runners. For longer peaceful runs, Lee Drive and the VCR trail offer a wonderful environment. They are mostly shaded and quiet. There are historic site markers along those trails, and I can stop and learn things I did not know about the city. So while running, I also get a history lesson too. Needless to say, I'm very grateful to be able to use the Fredericksburg area trails, and feel so fortunate to live in this beautiful city!” In response to our interview, we learned more from FARC Secretary Sara Perez. “The FARC believes that running enhances both the health and happiness of its participants. The club promotes and encourages recreational running in the Fredericksburg community through education of the community on the benefits of physical fitness and sport. We hold group runs, fun runs, track championships, and many local road races; put on lectures, demonstrations, and social events; publish newsletters; conduct fund raising events; donate to scholarship funds and support numerous non-profit organizations in the Fredericksburg area. FARC is a registered non-profit organization and a member of the Road Runners Club of America. Rappahannock Ospreys The youth running club is also a part of FARC, open to children ages 9-18. Coached by John Dachos and Chris Ernandes, this group practices each Tuesday and
Thursday at Pratt Park. The Ospreys participate in numerous area track events and road races. Goals are to expose young runners to running, leadership roles, healthy life style, assignment to strong role models/mentors, and community involvement. Ospreys are encouraged to use slower runs on the trails to help runners relax and recover from hard workouts/races, while also buddying up on the trails to help build team identity. Interested runners can learn more about FARC membership by visiting www.runfarc.com or by visiting the club’s Facebook page. The FARC monthly newsletter is located at https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxq3qvK 2h5AoU1BjZ2FfM2hlc1U/view.” Kevin Brown shares up-to-date local trail news and photos as administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails" Facebook Group
We hope all our readers enjoy their neighborhoods as much as we do. If you don’t like something, join together with your neighbors and city leaders to make improvements. Finally, when you need to relax and take a break, pull up a chair with a neighbor and read the Front Porch cover to cover!
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
5
Downtown Buzz
Meet Tim Baroody new fxbg city manager
New Branding: cohesively promoting downtown
Interview By kevin brown Please tell us a bit background and family?
about
your
I am a lifelong Virginian, and grew up in Alexandria. My parents were also born locally, and they still reside in the home I grew up in. I graduated from T.C. Williams and was proud to be on both the Football and Track & Field teams. (We were state champions my senior year, but not the famed 1973 Titans team!) I went on to Frostburg State University in Maryland, and earned a BS in Political Science and a minor in History. More recently I earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Virginia Tech. I met my wife while we were both working on Capitol Hill. We married in 1999, the same year we moved to the region. All three of our children were born at Mary Washington Hospital. Our oldest will attend James Monroe this year. We are making progress on our move and are excited that we will soon be City residents. In our spare time we like to take road trips. We have been to the Everglades, Grand Canyon and most recently traveled to Mt. Rushmore/Yellowstone. These are not
vacations (as my kids are tired of me saying), but family adventures. We have had a blast seeing small pieces of America. When you spend time with your family in Fredericksburg, where do you like to go, what do you like to do? You can often see me and one of my children (they take turns) on Saturday mornings at 2400 Diner. We also frequent Castiglia’s. And we (maybe mostly me) love the many historical spots in our Area. What are personally?
you
passionate
about
Community building! I have spent most of my professional career working with communities. Good health care, work force development opportunities, quality business growth, infrastructure advancements, parks, public safety and schools are not accidental. Relentless pursuit of advancements on all fronts is what makes the difference between good and great communities. The hard part is that there is really no finish line in building a great community. It starts with a vision and
By Ann Glave
leadership, and with focused/collective/collaborative efforts over time, there is nothing a community cannot achieve. Why did you seek this position? What strengths do you bring to the job, why do you think you were hired? Bev Cameron (the retiring City Manager) said to me that Fredericksburg is a community with unlimited potential. I agree, so without hesitation I accepted the offer to be the next City Manager. I am honored to have been selected, and believe in part that my familiarity with the region and track record in advancing both economic development and historic preservation was impactful. What do you think are the Fredericksburg strengths and areas for improvement? The City has tremendous strengths in its rich history, river stewardship, architecture, accessibility and infrastructure. An area for improvement is our regional collaboration. That is changing with the BRAC efforts, river protection efforts, and recent successes in
A Large Selection Available major transportation. But there are endless possibilities in what our region can accomplish by working more closely together. Any final message you would like to share with the public at this point, as you are starting the job? I have an open door policy, and I always want to hear from residents, businesses and visitors about what we are doing right – and what we could do better. Contact Tim Baroody at www.fredericksburgva.gov. cty manager
200 William Street Downtown ,Fredericksburg 540.373.4421 Mon-Fri: 9:30-6 Sat: 9:30-5 CrownJewelersFredericksburg.com
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com
Fredericksburg VA Main Street has recently reached one of its milestonescompleting a branding initiative for the Main Street District. Branding is more than just a logo and tagline but a clear, compelling and unique message. It is the foundation that helps to make a place desirable as a business location, visitor designation or a place to call home. The branding strategy is a deeper, more emotionally shared vision that influences actions and stimulates economic growth. The initial branding launch incorporates brand elements into a new web site for our district, open late flags, banners, downtown gift cards, decals, and #loveFXBG cards. This is our first step to cohesively promote Downtown. Downtown businesses will be encouraged to use the logo and style guide (compliments of Main Street) in their marketing to further assert the key unique qualities of our historic district as a vibrant and healthy community for residents, businesses, visitors and property owners. Currently Downtown Fredericksburg does not have a unified brand identity. There is a regional identity, Timeless Fredericksburg, which addresses the City of Fredericksburg as a whole, Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties. In late 2015, Fredericksburg VA Main Street hired Higashi Glaser Design to create a brand identity for both the FVMS
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let s Make It Happen!
SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
6
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
organization and district. This brand compliments the regional brand and can stand on its own while leveraging the city’s small town appeal and historic charm with the energy of its present-day business community. DOWNTOWN’S BRAND POSITIONING: Founded as a key point of Colonial river trade prime for commercial activity, Downtown Fredericksburg’s energy and vitality set the stage as our Founding fathers formed our American ideals.
THE BRAND’S PROMISE: Graced with energetic restaurants, galleries and shops, Fredericksburg is accessible, relevant, and competitive while preserving its small town appeal and historic charm. Fredericksburg offers a wellrounded lifestyle for a day trip or a lifetime. There are 2 directives that will initiate the launch of this project. One: Develop a new website that can serve both the internal (the FVMS Organization) and external (visitor, resident, business and property owner) audiences. The new website will act as a platform for communication for the organization as well as an orientation hub for a visitor or business owner. The new website will present engaging content while informing the public on essential items such as an overall map showcasing the historic sites, parking, public restrooms and ATM locations. Estimated Deliverable Time Frame: Late Fall. Two: Create and execute several physical and visual elements to introduce the new brand to the public. Open Late flags, banners, #LoveFXBg cards, branded
gift cards, and decals used simultaneously will produce the desired outcomes of an engaged downtown within the businesses and the community while promoting the qualities of the Downtown experience. In accordance with the brand promise, there are 6 attributes with the corresponding call to action: Savor (food), Peruse (retail and service) Reflect (historic), Navigate (outdoors recreation), Create (art) and Honor (battlefields & memorials). Deliverable Time Frame: Late Fall. DESIGN SIGNIFICANCE & MEANING CIRCLE SHAPE • Timeless • Eternal • Cyclical movement • Wholeness • Modern and Historic RED COLOR • Americana • History • Power • Passion • Most visible color • Complements City signage "FXBG" CONTEMPORARY TYPEFACE • Modern nod to social media to engage youth "1728" CLASSIC TYPEFACE • One of oldest/most classic typefaces, used in Supreme Court documents and textbooks "FOREVER REVOLUTIONARY" TAGLINE • "Forever" relates to City’s “Timeless” tagline • "Revolutionary" references the City's historic past and present relevance • Based on 18th century calligraphy, a contemporary script with classic roots • References signers of the Declaration of Independence Go to www. Fredericksburgmainstreet.org for more details. Save the Date: September 13 at 8:30 am at the Courtyard Marriot is the date for Main Street’s Downtown Community Meeting.
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
7
Downtown Buzz
Meet Tim Baroody new fxbg city manager
New Branding: cohesively promoting downtown
Interview By kevin brown Please tell us a bit background and family?
about
your
I am a lifelong Virginian, and grew up in Alexandria. My parents were also born locally, and they still reside in the home I grew up in. I graduated from T.C. Williams and was proud to be on both the Football and Track & Field teams. (We were state champions my senior year, but not the famed 1973 Titans team!) I went on to Frostburg State University in Maryland, and earned a BS in Political Science and a minor in History. More recently I earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Virginia Tech. I met my wife while we were both working on Capitol Hill. We married in 1999, the same year we moved to the region. All three of our children were born at Mary Washington Hospital. Our oldest will attend James Monroe this year. We are making progress on our move and are excited that we will soon be City residents. In our spare time we like to take road trips. We have been to the Everglades, Grand Canyon and most recently traveled to Mt. Rushmore/Yellowstone. These are not
vacations (as my kids are tired of me saying), but family adventures. We have had a blast seeing small pieces of America. When you spend time with your family in Fredericksburg, where do you like to go, what do you like to do? You can often see me and one of my children (they take turns) on Saturday mornings at 2400 Diner. We also frequent Castiglia’s. And we (maybe mostly me) love the many historical spots in our Area. What are personally?
you
passionate
about
Community building! I have spent most of my professional career working with communities. Good health care, work force development opportunities, quality business growth, infrastructure advancements, parks, public safety and schools are not accidental. Relentless pursuit of advancements on all fronts is what makes the difference between good and great communities. The hard part is that there is really no finish line in building a great community. It starts with a vision and
By Ann Glave
leadership, and with focused/collective/collaborative efforts over time, there is nothing a community cannot achieve. Why did you seek this position? What strengths do you bring to the job, why do you think you were hired? Bev Cameron (the retiring City Manager) said to me that Fredericksburg is a community with unlimited potential. I agree, so without hesitation I accepted the offer to be the next City Manager. I am honored to have been selected, and believe in part that my familiarity with the region and track record in advancing both economic development and historic preservation was impactful. What do you think are the Fredericksburg strengths and areas for improvement? The City has tremendous strengths in its rich history, river stewardship, architecture, accessibility and infrastructure. An area for improvement is our regional collaboration. That is changing with the BRAC efforts, river protection efforts, and recent successes in
A Large Selection Available major transportation. But there are endless possibilities in what our region can accomplish by working more closely together. Any final message you would like to share with the public at this point, as you are starting the job? I have an open door policy, and I always want to hear from residents, businesses and visitors about what we are doing right – and what we could do better. Contact Tim Baroody at www.fredericksburgva.gov. cty manager
200 William Street Downtown ,Fredericksburg 540.373.4421 Mon-Fri: 9:30-6 Sat: 9:30-5 CrownJewelersFredericksburg.com
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com
Fredericksburg VA Main Street has recently reached one of its milestonescompleting a branding initiative for the Main Street District. Branding is more than just a logo and tagline but a clear, compelling and unique message. It is the foundation that helps to make a place desirable as a business location, visitor designation or a place to call home. The branding strategy is a deeper, more emotionally shared vision that influences actions and stimulates economic growth. The initial branding launch incorporates brand elements into a new web site for our district, open late flags, banners, downtown gift cards, decals, and #loveFXBG cards. This is our first step to cohesively promote Downtown. Downtown businesses will be encouraged to use the logo and style guide (compliments of Main Street) in their marketing to further assert the key unique qualities of our historic district as a vibrant and healthy community for residents, businesses, visitors and property owners. Currently Downtown Fredericksburg does not have a unified brand identity. There is a regional identity, Timeless Fredericksburg, which addresses the City of Fredericksburg as a whole, Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties. In late 2015, Fredericksburg VA Main Street hired Higashi Glaser Design to create a brand identity for both the FVMS
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let s Make It Happen!
SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
6
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
organization and district. This brand compliments the regional brand and can stand on its own while leveraging the city’s small town appeal and historic charm with the energy of its present-day business community. DOWNTOWN’S BRAND POSITIONING: Founded as a key point of Colonial river trade prime for commercial activity, Downtown Fredericksburg’s energy and vitality set the stage as our Founding fathers formed our American ideals.
THE BRAND’S PROMISE: Graced with energetic restaurants, galleries and shops, Fredericksburg is accessible, relevant, and competitive while preserving its small town appeal and historic charm. Fredericksburg offers a wellrounded lifestyle for a day trip or a lifetime. There are 2 directives that will initiate the launch of this project. One: Develop a new website that can serve both the internal (the FVMS Organization) and external (visitor, resident, business and property owner) audiences. The new website will act as a platform for communication for the organization as well as an orientation hub for a visitor or business owner. The new website will present engaging content while informing the public on essential items such as an overall map showcasing the historic sites, parking, public restrooms and ATM locations. Estimated Deliverable Time Frame: Late Fall. Two: Create and execute several physical and visual elements to introduce the new brand to the public. Open Late flags, banners, #LoveFXBg cards, branded
gift cards, and decals used simultaneously will produce the desired outcomes of an engaged downtown within the businesses and the community while promoting the qualities of the Downtown experience. In accordance with the brand promise, there are 6 attributes with the corresponding call to action: Savor (food), Peruse (retail and service) Reflect (historic), Navigate (outdoors recreation), Create (art) and Honor (battlefields & memorials). Deliverable Time Frame: Late Fall. DESIGN SIGNIFICANCE & MEANING CIRCLE SHAPE • Timeless • Eternal • Cyclical movement • Wholeness • Modern and Historic RED COLOR • Americana • History • Power • Passion • Most visible color • Complements City signage "FXBG" CONTEMPORARY TYPEFACE • Modern nod to social media to engage youth "1728" CLASSIC TYPEFACE • One of oldest/most classic typefaces, used in Supreme Court documents and textbooks "FOREVER REVOLUTIONARY" TAGLINE • "Forever" relates to City’s “Timeless” tagline • "Revolutionary" references the City's historic past and present relevance • Based on 18th century calligraphy, a contemporary script with classic roots • References signers of the Declaration of Independence Go to www. Fredericksburgmainstreet.org for more details. Save the Date: September 13 at 8:30 am at the Courtyard Marriot is the date for Main Street’s Downtown Community Meeting.
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
7
Flora,
Fauna, & Fred
Stacy Gaglio & Katherine Green Exhibit
at
Kimberly Leone A look into Fxbg theatre community by emily hollingsworth
By Collette Caprara
Saturday, September 24 9am-5pm 374-0443 www.shopwhittingham.com 1021 Caroline Street
Throughout September, the Brush Strokes Gallery features new works by a fascinating duo of its artists—Stacy Gaglio (above right) and Katherine Green (above)—in an exhibit dubbed “Flora, Fauna, and Fred.” At first glance, these artists seem very different in their palette, style, and subject
Open M - F at 6 am Open Sat & Sun at 7 am Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 9 am - 2 pm $5.00 Weekday Lunch Specials
620 Caroline Street
540.373.8300
“Serpentine,” Katherine Green
Supporting Local Artists Since 1997 8
September 2016
matter. Yet, as the viewer lets go and enters the realm of the paintings of both, a unity is conveyed in the fact that both capture personality and the essence of a scene or object. For Katherine, that is accomplished by going deep within the
Front porch fredericksburg
realm of nature, focusing on a unique form, atmosphere, or some close-range element that captures a quality that sparks interest and moves the heart. In her painting “Serpentine,” for example, a vine deep within the woods seems to dance with unheard music as it swoops to the ground and gracefully turns upward again. The brightly hued petals of two blossoms in “Peony Flourish,” likewise, seem to vibrate with some silent sound that is accentuated by a percussive element of the stamens and pistils of the flowers. And, in, “Paddling the Nolin,” the blue and green atmosphere seems to convey the smooth, flowing sounds of jazz. In all three compositions, that connoted musical element conveys a quality of character, be life can be the connotation of human it soft and fluid or lively and vibrant. It seems fitting that Katherine’s presence through clues such as the table paintings would elicit melodic elements, and chairs in the courtyard that await given that it is a musical accompaniment occupants under the “Rooftops”---or the that often inspires her treatment of a alignment of the windows of the “Innis House” so that the viewer can see through subject. As she explains, “My paintings the structure and might not be terribly begin with q moment of pleasure, often surprised if the silhouette of an inhabitant spiritually inflected, that I have found in were to move into view. nature: a flash of color, a slant of light; a pattern of shadows; a vignette of a bird or bug or flower. It is when I’ve settled matters like size, support, and palette with my head that I move into what is, for me, new territory— where the body and the heart must take the lead. Then I still the mind, turn on the jazz and hope for a portal into the flow.” In contrast, Stacy’s artwork conveys the essence of her subjects through bold lines and blocks of color. And, it is natural that, given her twodecade career as a professional interior designer, Stacy’s subjects of choice would typically be scenes that speak to her from the built environment—particularly those she discovers in Fredericksburg. In her depictions, Stacy pays close attention to the effect of light and the slant of the sun, sometimes standing guard to capture just the right moment of the day. Her “Amelia Street Rooftops” “Amelia Street Rooftops”, Stacy Gaglio seems to glow with sunlight in the late afternoon and the dramatic shadows it casts, while her “Innis House” conveys a Flora, Fauna, & Fred Exhibit haunting quality with its somber, muted runs thru October 2 hues. Opening Reception, September 2 “My favorite subjects to draw Brush Strokes Gallery and paint are buildings, homes, and old 824 Caroline Street signage. I love things that were once beautiful and are now old and forgotten,” she said. “For me, the process of bringing a subject back to life through art is inspiring.” For Stacy, that hint of
Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist.
Fredericksburg Theatre Ensemble met one of its primary goals this year, owning a venue behind Picker’s Supply. Picker’s Alley, as it is called, has an entrance in the alleyway between St. George’s Episcopal Church and Picker’s Supply. Chalk messages cover the doors, the stage room aged and welcoming. The ensemble will have an open house and grand opening during September’s First Friday, on Sept. 2 from 6-8 p.m. During the event, visitors will learn more about the theatre company and its upcoming performances. Area band Wylder will perform from 9-11 p.m., and artwork from various area artists will be on display in the waiting room. Kimberly Leone, executive director of FTE, intends to share the stage at Picker’s Alley, not only for performing artists, but for area musicians and artists as well. Anyone interested in renting the venue for a performance can email Leone at fredtheatre@gmail.com. Leone became invested in FTE after moving to Fredericksburg while working with the Marine Corps. She and her family had lived in the suburbs for a year, but noticed they found themselves coming to downtown Fredericksburg every weekend. The downtown community eventually drew them in completely. They rented a place downtown for a year and eventually moved into their current home. Leone attended Stage Door Production’s One Act Festival, meeting the FTE and performing in the group’s rendition of “Last of the Red Hots Lovers” by Neil Simon. In what Leone describes as a blur, she became a board member and quickly moved to being FTE’s executive director.
Cultivating a collaborative relationship with Picker’s Supply, Stage Door Productions and Rude Mechanicals, other Fredericksburg area theatre programs, Leone said all of the area productions offer something different to the community. “If someone is in the mood for a traditional, large cast musical, there’s Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, or CYT, or Stage Door Productions,” Leone said. “If you want something classic like Shakespeare or original theatre, then I can say 'let’s see what Rude Mechanicals is doing,' or if it's date night and you want to laugh at a dirty joke, check out Fredericksburg Theatre Ensemble. There's so much theatre to do and we have some truly great theatre groups right here doing high quality productions.” Leone noted that many of the shows in FTE cover mature themes and may not be appropriate for people under 16. FTE is a 501c3 non-profit that relies on donations from community members. Before securing Picker’s Alley as a venue, Leone said the ensemble would hold rehearsals anywhere from her living
Helping You Heal Naturally
The Way Your Body Was Meant To Dr. Jason Sneed, D.O. room to renting rooms at The Central Rappahannock Regional Library Headquarters branch. FTE accepts donations as the price play royalties and renting venues can add up, according to Leone. Thanks to Picker’s Alley, people and organizations will be able to have another venue to see artists, musicians, and theatre performers. “We have a growing crowd of people who come just for the artist,” Leone said. “Now people have a place to see our performing artists.” For more information about FTE and about Leone, visit fredericksburgtheatre.org. Emily Hollingsworth is a recent graduate of the University of Mary Washington and profiles artists, photographers and members of the Fredericksburg community.
540-322-5040 www.odomedicine.com Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
Jewell Wolterman 1320 Central Park Blvd, Ste 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
9
Flora,
Fauna, & Fred
Stacy Gaglio & Katherine Green Exhibit
at
Kimberly Leone A look into Fxbg theatre community by emily hollingsworth
By Collette Caprara
Saturday, September 24 9am-5pm 374-0443 www.shopwhittingham.com 1021 Caroline Street
Throughout September, the Brush Strokes Gallery features new works by a fascinating duo of its artists—Stacy Gaglio (above right) and Katherine Green (above)—in an exhibit dubbed “Flora, Fauna, and Fred.” At first glance, these artists seem very different in their palette, style, and subject
Open M - F at 6 am Open Sat & Sun at 7 am Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 9 am - 2 pm $5.00 Weekday Lunch Specials
620 Caroline Street
540.373.8300
“Serpentine,” Katherine Green
Supporting Local Artists Since 1997 8
September 2016
matter. Yet, as the viewer lets go and enters the realm of the paintings of both, a unity is conveyed in the fact that both capture personality and the essence of a scene or object. For Katherine, that is accomplished by going deep within the
Front porch fredericksburg
realm of nature, focusing on a unique form, atmosphere, or some close-range element that captures a quality that sparks interest and moves the heart. In her painting “Serpentine,” for example, a vine deep within the woods seems to dance with unheard music as it swoops to the ground and gracefully turns upward again. The brightly hued petals of two blossoms in “Peony Flourish,” likewise, seem to vibrate with some silent sound that is accentuated by a percussive element of the stamens and pistils of the flowers. And, in, “Paddling the Nolin,” the blue and green atmosphere seems to convey the smooth, flowing sounds of jazz. In all three compositions, that connoted musical element conveys a quality of character, be life can be the connotation of human it soft and fluid or lively and vibrant. It seems fitting that Katherine’s presence through clues such as the table paintings would elicit melodic elements, and chairs in the courtyard that await given that it is a musical accompaniment occupants under the “Rooftops”---or the that often inspires her treatment of a alignment of the windows of the “Innis House” so that the viewer can see through subject. As she explains, “My paintings the structure and might not be terribly begin with q moment of pleasure, often surprised if the silhouette of an inhabitant spiritually inflected, that I have found in were to move into view. nature: a flash of color, a slant of light; a pattern of shadows; a vignette of a bird or bug or flower. It is when I’ve settled matters like size, support, and palette with my head that I move into what is, for me, new territory— where the body and the heart must take the lead. Then I still the mind, turn on the jazz and hope for a portal into the flow.” In contrast, Stacy’s artwork conveys the essence of her subjects through bold lines and blocks of color. And, it is natural that, given her twodecade career as a professional interior designer, Stacy’s subjects of choice would typically be scenes that speak to her from the built environment—particularly those she discovers in Fredericksburg. In her depictions, Stacy pays close attention to the effect of light and the slant of the sun, sometimes standing guard to capture just the right moment of the day. Her “Amelia Street Rooftops” “Amelia Street Rooftops”, Stacy Gaglio seems to glow with sunlight in the late afternoon and the dramatic shadows it casts, while her “Innis House” conveys a Flora, Fauna, & Fred Exhibit haunting quality with its somber, muted runs thru October 2 hues. Opening Reception, September 2 “My favorite subjects to draw Brush Strokes Gallery and paint are buildings, homes, and old 824 Caroline Street signage. I love things that were once beautiful and are now old and forgotten,” she said. “For me, the process of bringing a subject back to life through art is inspiring.” For Stacy, that hint of
Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist.
Fredericksburg Theatre Ensemble met one of its primary goals this year, owning a venue behind Picker’s Supply. Picker’s Alley, as it is called, has an entrance in the alleyway between St. George’s Episcopal Church and Picker’s Supply. Chalk messages cover the doors, the stage room aged and welcoming. The ensemble will have an open house and grand opening during September’s First Friday, on Sept. 2 from 6-8 p.m. During the event, visitors will learn more about the theatre company and its upcoming performances. Area band Wylder will perform from 9-11 p.m., and artwork from various area artists will be on display in the waiting room. Kimberly Leone, executive director of FTE, intends to share the stage at Picker’s Alley, not only for performing artists, but for area musicians and artists as well. Anyone interested in renting the venue for a performance can email Leone at fredtheatre@gmail.com. Leone became invested in FTE after moving to Fredericksburg while working with the Marine Corps. She and her family had lived in the suburbs for a year, but noticed they found themselves coming to downtown Fredericksburg every weekend. The downtown community eventually drew them in completely. They rented a place downtown for a year and eventually moved into their current home. Leone attended Stage Door Production’s One Act Festival, meeting the FTE and performing in the group’s rendition of “Last of the Red Hots Lovers” by Neil Simon. In what Leone describes as a blur, she became a board member and quickly moved to being FTE’s executive director.
Cultivating a collaborative relationship with Picker’s Supply, Stage Door Productions and Rude Mechanicals, other Fredericksburg area theatre programs, Leone said all of the area productions offer something different to the community. “If someone is in the mood for a traditional, large cast musical, there’s Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, or CYT, or Stage Door Productions,” Leone said. “If you want something classic like Shakespeare or original theatre, then I can say 'let’s see what Rude Mechanicals is doing,' or if it's date night and you want to laugh at a dirty joke, check out Fredericksburg Theatre Ensemble. There's so much theatre to do and we have some truly great theatre groups right here doing high quality productions.” Leone noted that many of the shows in FTE cover mature themes and may not be appropriate for people under 16. FTE is a 501c3 non-profit that relies on donations from community members. Before securing Picker’s Alley as a venue, Leone said the ensemble would hold rehearsals anywhere from her living
Helping You Heal Naturally
The Way Your Body Was Meant To Dr. Jason Sneed, D.O. room to renting rooms at The Central Rappahannock Regional Library Headquarters branch. FTE accepts donations as the price play royalties and renting venues can add up, according to Leone. Thanks to Picker’s Alley, people and organizations will be able to have another venue to see artists, musicians, and theatre performers. “We have a growing crowd of people who come just for the artist,” Leone said. “Now people have a place to see our performing artists.” For more information about FTE and about Leone, visit fredericksburgtheatre.org. Emily Hollingsworth is a recent graduate of the University of Mary Washington and profiles artists, photographers and members of the Fredericksburg community.
540-322-5040 www.odomedicine.com Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
Jewell Wolterman 1320 Central Park Blvd, Ste 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
9
Meet General Lafayette
Defying Physics
Fxbg sister association holds b’day Celebration
Artist David Lovegrove
By Kathyrn Willis
By Suzanne Scherr
Elegance and deliciousness will be perfectly paired when Fredericksburg pays tribute to General Lafayette, perhaps the most famous of all French visitors to our fair City. A birthday celebration in his honor will be held on Saturday, September 24, at Fredericksburg Square, at 525 Caroline Street. The Guest of Honor has accepted the invitation from the Fredericksburg Sister City Association, and Edith Piaf has agreed to sing in tribute to her fellow French countryman.
The birthday honoree, born Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis du Lafayette, Baron de Vissac, Seigneur de St. Romain, gave up his noble titles in 1790. He preferred the simple title of General Lafayette. He will attend in period dress, and will share remarks and insights during the evening’s events. Acclaimed for her Edith Piaf repertoire, Simone Marchand, French native and long-time DC performer, will sing her favorites for General Lafayette, accompanied by pianist Ray Dempsey. Mme Marchand has performed at the French Embassy, at the Smithsonian, and is a frequent chanteuse at several capitolarea French restaurants. The evening’s hosts, Fredericksburg Square owners Deborah and Van Perroy, promise an excellent three-course French dinner, which will be paired with Bordeaux red, and Sauvignon Blanc or Bordeaux Blanc. FSCA celebrates Lafayette in particular because of his close connections to Fredericksburg. He led Revolutionary troops through the area prior to joining in the final battle at Yorktown; he made a
special visit here to call on Mary Washington, the mother of his life-long friend, George; and he attended the 1824 ball in his honor that was held in our noble old Town Hall. He named his daughter Virginie, and his son, Georges Washington. The French National Anthem, the American National Anthem, and other entertainment jewels await those who attend. A cash bar will be available prior to the dinner seating. Tickets are $60 per person, which includes the three-course meal and dinner wine service. More information is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com. FSCA is a sister city organization, founded in 1980, and twinned with Fréjus, France. During its 36 years, it has sponsored over 1,000 student exchanges, and has offered numerous cultural programs and events. These include the Giant Omelet, the Bastille Day celebration, and the Mardi Gras party, along with historical and cultural programs. The fundraiser will also feature special blend coffee, FSCA Giant Omelette 2020, 100% Arabica beans, Brazilian Dark Roast, for donations of $12 or greater.
These coffee sales will help finance the namesake Giant Omelet celebration to mark the 40th year, in 2020. An evening brimming with history, with music, with food and wine, and convivial company, and also in support of one of the City’s most active cultural groups—well, permission is granted to respond with, “Oooh, là là”! B’Day Celebration for Gen. Lafayette Saturday, September 24, at Fredericksburg Square. Tickets info for this three-ccourse meal and dinner wine service. is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com.
“Casson Park, Series III” Artist David Lovegrove rarely sketches or photographs the beautiful or the polished. Instead, he finds and conveys meaning, and sometimes, double
meanings, through altered images of the worn, broken, neglected, or unfinished. “I work by studying the natural and human-made world around me and then make sketches or take photographs of what I have seen”, says Lovegrove, “I rarely sketch or take pictures of things that are beautiful or polished; many of my objects and places are worn, broken, or they are being constructed or deconstructed. I generate more finished pieces from those sources” In acrylic paint, colored pencils, photography, as well as photo transfers, Lovegrove creates images that can defy the laws of physics. Recognizable local landmarks, such as the decrepit Embrey Power Plant and the Purina Tower in Fredericksburg are transformed to encourage reflection and interpretation. He balances between abstraction and realism and explores artistic traditions, such as Cubism and diagrammatic drawing, to interpret his environment. “The finished pieces often
become metaphors for larger and more important ideas about the world. So I want to depict the formal and abstract qualities of objects and places, but also make them represent something that is important to me”, explains David Since 1990, Lovegrove has taught visual art. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from Virginia Tech and a
work are Cubist artists, and Kurt Schwitters, Charles Sheeler, Gordon MattaClark, Claes Oldenburg, Richard Diebenkorn, Wayne Thiebaud, and the general history of architecture and photography Opening Reception: First Friday, September 2, 2016 from 6 pm to 9 pm Exhibit on View: Wednesday, August 31 through Monday, October 3, 11 am to 5 pm. Art First Gallery is located at 824 Caroline St. Additional details of the show are available by visiting www.artfirstgallery.com or calling 540371-7107. Suzanne Scherr is the Media Contact for Art First Gallery. She can be reached at 717-357-6198, suzanne.scherr@att.net
“Spillway Park, Series II” Master of Fine Arts from James Madison University. Lovegrove says that the Modern artists who have influenced his
Publisher’s Note: “The Leaning Tower of Purina Descending a Staircase” by David Lovegrove is this month’s cover.
601 LAFAYETTE BLVD
roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802
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On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-5 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com
10
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
11
Meet General Lafayette
Defying Physics
Fxbg sister association holds b’day Celebration
Artist David Lovegrove
By Kathyrn Willis
By Suzanne Scherr
Elegance and deliciousness will be perfectly paired when Fredericksburg pays tribute to General Lafayette, perhaps the most famous of all French visitors to our fair City. A birthday celebration in his honor will be held on Saturday, September 24, at Fredericksburg Square, at 525 Caroline Street. The Guest of Honor has accepted the invitation from the Fredericksburg Sister City Association, and Edith Piaf has agreed to sing in tribute to her fellow French countryman.
The birthday honoree, born Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis du Lafayette, Baron de Vissac, Seigneur de St. Romain, gave up his noble titles in 1790. He preferred the simple title of General Lafayette. He will attend in period dress, and will share remarks and insights during the evening’s events. Acclaimed for her Edith Piaf repertoire, Simone Marchand, French native and long-time DC performer, will sing her favorites for General Lafayette, accompanied by pianist Ray Dempsey. Mme Marchand has performed at the French Embassy, at the Smithsonian, and is a frequent chanteuse at several capitolarea French restaurants. The evening’s hosts, Fredericksburg Square owners Deborah and Van Perroy, promise an excellent three-course French dinner, which will be paired with Bordeaux red, and Sauvignon Blanc or Bordeaux Blanc. FSCA celebrates Lafayette in particular because of his close connections to Fredericksburg. He led Revolutionary troops through the area prior to joining in the final battle at Yorktown; he made a
special visit here to call on Mary Washington, the mother of his life-long friend, George; and he attended the 1824 ball in his honor that was held in our noble old Town Hall. He named his daughter Virginie, and his son, Georges Washington. The French National Anthem, the American National Anthem, and other entertainment jewels await those who attend. A cash bar will be available prior to the dinner seating. Tickets are $60 per person, which includes the three-course meal and dinner wine service. More information is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com. FSCA is a sister city organization, founded in 1980, and twinned with Fréjus, France. During its 36 years, it has sponsored over 1,000 student exchanges, and has offered numerous cultural programs and events. These include the Giant Omelet, the Bastille Day celebration, and the Mardi Gras party, along with historical and cultural programs. The fundraiser will also feature special blend coffee, FSCA Giant Omelette 2020, 100% Arabica beans, Brazilian Dark Roast, for donations of $12 or greater.
These coffee sales will help finance the namesake Giant Omelet celebration to mark the 40th year, in 2020. An evening brimming with history, with music, with food and wine, and convivial company, and also in support of one of the City’s most active cultural groups—well, permission is granted to respond with, “Oooh, là là”! B’Day Celebration for Gen. Lafayette Saturday, September 24, at Fredericksburg Square. Tickets info for this three-ccourse meal and dinner wine service. is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com.
“Casson Park, Series III” Artist David Lovegrove rarely sketches or photographs the beautiful or the polished. Instead, he finds and conveys meaning, and sometimes, double
meanings, through altered images of the worn, broken, neglected, or unfinished. “I work by studying the natural and human-made world around me and then make sketches or take photographs of what I have seen”, says Lovegrove, “I rarely sketch or take pictures of things that are beautiful or polished; many of my objects and places are worn, broken, or they are being constructed or deconstructed. I generate more finished pieces from those sources” In acrylic paint, colored pencils, photography, as well as photo transfers, Lovegrove creates images that can defy the laws of physics. Recognizable local landmarks, such as the decrepit Embrey Power Plant and the Purina Tower in Fredericksburg are transformed to encourage reflection and interpretation. He balances between abstraction and realism and explores artistic traditions, such as Cubism and diagrammatic drawing, to interpret his environment. “The finished pieces often
become metaphors for larger and more important ideas about the world. So I want to depict the formal and abstract qualities of objects and places, but also make them represent something that is important to me”, explains David Since 1990, Lovegrove has taught visual art. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from Virginia Tech and a
work are Cubist artists, and Kurt Schwitters, Charles Sheeler, Gordon MattaClark, Claes Oldenburg, Richard Diebenkorn, Wayne Thiebaud, and the general history of architecture and photography Opening Reception: First Friday, September 2, 2016 from 6 pm to 9 pm Exhibit on View: Wednesday, August 31 through Monday, October 3, 11 am to 5 pm. Art First Gallery is located at 824 Caroline St. Additional details of the show are available by visiting www.artfirstgallery.com or calling 540371-7107. Suzanne Scherr is the Media Contact for Art First Gallery. She can be reached at 717-357-6198, suzanne.scherr@att.net
“Spillway Park, Series II” Master of Fine Arts from James Madison University. Lovegrove says that the Modern artists who have influenced his
Publisher’s Note: “The Leaning Tower of Purina Descending a Staircase” by David Lovegrove is this month’s cover.
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10
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
11
Vino Wine Decanting by scott richards
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
12
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
Anyone who has consumed a lot of wine over time has tasted some that just did not seem quite right at first. Then about half way through the glass, the taste seemed to change. Usually a bit more mellow, quite often some flavors became more evident. What started out to be a bomb became a nice experience. Wine is always undergoing a chemical reaction. From the time of fermentation, through the aging process, and bottling, a lot of activity happens. As the wine stays in the bottle, even then changes still occur, albeit much slower than before, as the wine is almost comatose due to lack of oxygen. When the bottle is opened, and air comes into the any at all, save to remove some sediment wine, this process is stepped up drastically. that may be present. What may appear tannic to ones mouth Another method of decanting (in wine lingo, tannins), can become, after which scares me just a bit, is putting the exposure to air, a very palatable drink. wine in a blender and blending it for The process of introducing air to wine thirty to sixty seconds. After the wine after the bottle is opened is known as settles, it can be served in a traditional decanting. carafe. Rather than just opening the In an interview with Wine bottle and letting it breathe, a proper Searcher, Nathan Myhroid, the guru of decanting involves the "Hyper Decanting" trend Rather than just pouring the wine into a stated, "Wine lovers have opening the bottle and larger container that known for centuries that allows the air to be letting it breathe, a decanting wine before exposed to more of the proper decanting involves serving it often improves its wine surface. In addition pouring the wine into a flavor. Whatever the to exposing it to air, if a dominant process, the larger container that bottle is older or has not traditional decanter is a allows the air to be been through filtration, rather pathetic tool to exposed to more of the decanting can help accomplish it. A few years wine surface. remove sediment. ago, I found I could get Looking on the much better results by using an ordinary internet can scare anyone looking to buy blender." a vessel for decanting (known by some While this may be a much faster wine geeks as a carafe). Prices go from method of decanting wine, it smacks of $20-30.00 up to several hundred dollars. our "gotta have it now" culture. Face it, Crazy. When working retail, I was wine is not a fast food item unless lesser speaking about this subject to a CWS quality wines are being consumed. At that (Certified Wine Specialist - a real point, it does not need to be decanted designation) who laughed and said that anyway, as no form of decanting can people should just go to Walmart and get revive a dead wine. Also, when a wine has a glass jar or lemonade pitcher, the effect a bad cork that has allowed air to get in would be the same. It just does not look and queer the wine, decanting will do no as sophisticated. good. More important than the Not an exact science, decanting, container is the amount of time it stays in like wine, comes down to a personal the container prior to serving. My choice. I have a friend who is very favorite method for determining the time knowledgeable about wine and insists on frame is to taste it. Depending on the decanting every bottle he opens, while wine, sometimes I taste it more often. A others may not even know what a good rule of thumb is to letting it remain decanter is, but have drunk wines for approxiamately thirty minutes. After years. Whatever you do, enjoy. And initially pouring the wine into the carafe please, drink responsibly.Cheers. and prior to serving, I will swirl the wine around to add just a touch more air. If Scott Richards is owner of Loch Haven Vineyards, and a free lance writer Read the wine stays too long in the carafe, it his blog at fromthevine.wordpress.com can lose its flavor and actually go bad. It or Contact him at all depends on the wine. Usually, older bgmeadowswine@yahoo.com wines do not require as much decanting, if
Season’s Bounty I will see you in september By vanessa moncure September gardens are not the same as May gardens - May gardens tempt you with promise, fragrant earth freshly turned and tilled, with just-hardened, post-frost plants in even rows, tiny slips of peas, beans and potatoes just greening the soil. September gardens splay across the ground, fall pumpkin vines blanket sunbaked and weedy earth - twining lima vines furl around their wooden tripods,the last volunteer cherry tomatoes are a bright spot before edging toward the fall garden. While still harvesting okra pods from towering plants, the back garden is planted with fall and overwinter greens. I pick late red serrano peppers and with wooden needle and thick cotton thread, make garlands to dry in the late summer sun. I’ve dried corn to store and rehydrate for winter soups and stews, have picked and dried fresh herbs, and have filled shelves with a summer’s worth of canning. Don’t let these last ends and bits of a summer garden go to waste - it’s easy to dry or dehydrate most fruits and vegetables in your kitchen. Okra leaves are great in a torn-leaf salad, or sauteed quickly in a bit of garlicky oil. Slender Japanese eggplant hang heavy on their stems and are delicious grilled whole. Thin the just-planted fall crop of beet greens, arugula, spinach and mesclun mix - cut the tiny roots off, wash and lightly pat dry, then add these microgreens to cooked and cooled red lentils with a splash of vinaigrette. If you’re not a backyard gardener, we are fortunate to have active farmer’s markets to supply you with seasonal favorites. WHAT TO DO WITH THE END-O OF-S SUMMER TOMATOES I love fried green tomatoes - cut in a thick slice, dip in beaten egg then a mixture of half seasoned flour and half yellow cornmeal, Saute in half canola oil/half butter mixture until golden brown and softened. Great to serve with slices of salty country ham. OR when I have so many small globe tomatoes and some romas, not enough to can, but too many to eat, I dry them. Preheat oven to 175F (or if gas oven has a pilot light, that’s great) - prepare a baker’s pan by lining with parchment paper. Rinse tomatoes well, cut out core, then cut into into ¼” slices and place, touching, on the parchment paper. Fill as many pans as you can fit into your oven with tomato slices, then leave in oven for 8- to 12-hours, checking every 2-3 hours, until the tomato slices are very dry but still pliable. They should not brown or be crisp. Let cool completely at room temperature, then remove from parchment sheets and store in a wide-mouth canning jar. Cut a piece of muslin then close with ring. Store at room temperature - dried tomatoes make a quick and delicious cream sauce for fish, chicken or pasta. Cut dried tomatoes into
thin strips - add to ½ c. chicken stock and simmer with a whole peeled garlic clove until the tomatoes are rehydrated. Add 1 c. heavy cream, 1 T. butter, S&white pepper to taste, then raise temperature and reduce slightly until the sauce coats a spoon. Remove garlic clove and toss with pasta or use as a cream sauce with grilled fish or chicken. Do not store dried tomatoes in oil - although you can buy commercially prepared sundried tomatoes in oil, it’s a very bad idea to pack any home-d dried fruit or vegetable in oil because of a distant threat of botulism, a rare but serious food-borne disease, often found in improperly canned food. Botulism can grow without the presence of oxygen, so only high-acid foods (like tomatoes,pickles,salsas) or sugar-laden (preserves, jellies, jams, some fruits in sugar syrup) can be safely canned in a water-bath canner. Lots more than I can tell you in this space, so refer to canning info provided at www.freshpreserving.com/canning-101getting-started. from Ball. Lots of accessories and recipes, too. CLEANING OUT THE GARDEN VEGETABLE STEWMy grandmother of course had a lot of recipes, this was one we always ate at the end of the growing season. Dice one medium onion and in 1T. Oil, begin to cook over low heat in a medium saucepan. Add 4 c. peeled and diced tomatoes, 1 c. large raw lima beans, 1-3 tsp. Sugar, S&P to taste. Cook over medium low heat, lid on, until the limas are almost tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in either 2 c.sliced fresh okra or a dozen or more small whole pods. Add ½ tomato sauce to ½ water if you need more liquid, cover. Cook until okra and limas are tender, about another five minutes. OR make a favorite standby, ratatouille. Roughly dice equal amounts of onion, eggplant, zucchini, red and green peppers, yellow squash (example 2 c. each) and double the amount of peeled and seeded tomatoes (example 4 c. tomatoes). In a heavy deep saute pan, heat ¼ c. olive oil, then add the diced onions along with 2 peeled and diced garlic cloves and a sprig of fresh thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until onion is softened but not browned. Stir in all vegetables except tomatoes, raise heat a bit and saute, stirring often, about five minutes or until most of the moisture is cooked from the vegetables (add more olive oil by the tablespoon if needed).. Reduce the heat to medium low, stir in tomatoes and S&P to taste, and cook another 5-10 minutes until cooked through. Don’t overcook as the vegetables should mostly maintain their shape. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, serve hot, cold or at room temperature. Now I’ll “See You in October”!
Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Hours Monday - Saturday, 9am to 9pm; Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor
Serving Breakfast Sandwiches 10am ~ 11:30am Lunch 10am ~ 4pm Open Monday ~ Saturday 10am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline corner of Caroline & George Streets
S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S
Serving Great Food Since 1981
Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street
(540) 371-2008
Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
13
Vino Wine Decanting by scott richards
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
12
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
Anyone who has consumed a lot of wine over time has tasted some that just did not seem quite right at first. Then about half way through the glass, the taste seemed to change. Usually a bit more mellow, quite often some flavors became more evident. What started out to be a bomb became a nice experience. Wine is always undergoing a chemical reaction. From the time of fermentation, through the aging process, and bottling, a lot of activity happens. As the wine stays in the bottle, even then changes still occur, albeit much slower than before, as the wine is almost comatose due to lack of oxygen. When the bottle is opened, and air comes into the any at all, save to remove some sediment wine, this process is stepped up drastically. that may be present. What may appear tannic to ones mouth Another method of decanting (in wine lingo, tannins), can become, after which scares me just a bit, is putting the exposure to air, a very palatable drink. wine in a blender and blending it for The process of introducing air to wine thirty to sixty seconds. After the wine after the bottle is opened is known as settles, it can be served in a traditional decanting. carafe. Rather than just opening the In an interview with Wine bottle and letting it breathe, a proper Searcher, Nathan Myhroid, the guru of decanting involves the "Hyper Decanting" trend Rather than just pouring the wine into a stated, "Wine lovers have opening the bottle and larger container that known for centuries that allows the air to be letting it breathe, a decanting wine before exposed to more of the proper decanting involves serving it often improves its wine surface. In addition pouring the wine into a flavor. Whatever the to exposing it to air, if a dominant process, the larger container that bottle is older or has not traditional decanter is a allows the air to be been through filtration, rather pathetic tool to exposed to more of the decanting can help accomplish it. A few years wine surface. remove sediment. ago, I found I could get Looking on the much better results by using an ordinary internet can scare anyone looking to buy blender." a vessel for decanting (known by some While this may be a much faster wine geeks as a carafe). Prices go from method of decanting wine, it smacks of $20-30.00 up to several hundred dollars. our "gotta have it now" culture. Face it, Crazy. When working retail, I was wine is not a fast food item unless lesser speaking about this subject to a CWS quality wines are being consumed. At that (Certified Wine Specialist - a real point, it does not need to be decanted designation) who laughed and said that anyway, as no form of decanting can people should just go to Walmart and get revive a dead wine. Also, when a wine has a glass jar or lemonade pitcher, the effect a bad cork that has allowed air to get in would be the same. It just does not look and queer the wine, decanting will do no as sophisticated. good. More important than the Not an exact science, decanting, container is the amount of time it stays in like wine, comes down to a personal the container prior to serving. My choice. I have a friend who is very favorite method for determining the time knowledgeable about wine and insists on frame is to taste it. Depending on the decanting every bottle he opens, while wine, sometimes I taste it more often. A others may not even know what a good rule of thumb is to letting it remain decanter is, but have drunk wines for approxiamately thirty minutes. After years. Whatever you do, enjoy. And initially pouring the wine into the carafe please, drink responsibly.Cheers. and prior to serving, I will swirl the wine around to add just a touch more air. If Scott Richards is owner of Loch Haven Vineyards, and a free lance writer Read the wine stays too long in the carafe, it his blog at fromthevine.wordpress.com can lose its flavor and actually go bad. It or Contact him at all depends on the wine. Usually, older bgmeadowswine@yahoo.com wines do not require as much decanting, if
Season’s Bounty I will see you in september By vanessa moncure September gardens are not the same as May gardens - May gardens tempt you with promise, fragrant earth freshly turned and tilled, with just-hardened, post-frost plants in even rows, tiny slips of peas, beans and potatoes just greening the soil. September gardens splay across the ground, fall pumpkin vines blanket sunbaked and weedy earth - twining lima vines furl around their wooden tripods,the last volunteer cherry tomatoes are a bright spot before edging toward the fall garden. While still harvesting okra pods from towering plants, the back garden is planted with fall and overwinter greens. I pick late red serrano peppers and with wooden needle and thick cotton thread, make garlands to dry in the late summer sun. I’ve dried corn to store and rehydrate for winter soups and stews, have picked and dried fresh herbs, and have filled shelves with a summer’s worth of canning. Don’t let these last ends and bits of a summer garden go to waste - it’s easy to dry or dehydrate most fruits and vegetables in your kitchen. Okra leaves are great in a torn-leaf salad, or sauteed quickly in a bit of garlicky oil. Slender Japanese eggplant hang heavy on their stems and are delicious grilled whole. Thin the just-planted fall crop of beet greens, arugula, spinach and mesclun mix - cut the tiny roots off, wash and lightly pat dry, then add these microgreens to cooked and cooled red lentils with a splash of vinaigrette. If you’re not a backyard gardener, we are fortunate to have active farmer’s markets to supply you with seasonal favorites. WHAT TO DO WITH THE END-O OF-S SUMMER TOMATOES I love fried green tomatoes - cut in a thick slice, dip in beaten egg then a mixture of half seasoned flour and half yellow cornmeal, Saute in half canola oil/half butter mixture until golden brown and softened. Great to serve with slices of salty country ham. OR when I have so many small globe tomatoes and some romas, not enough to can, but too many to eat, I dry them. Preheat oven to 175F (or if gas oven has a pilot light, that’s great) - prepare a baker’s pan by lining with parchment paper. Rinse tomatoes well, cut out core, then cut into into ¼” slices and place, touching, on the parchment paper. Fill as many pans as you can fit into your oven with tomato slices, then leave in oven for 8- to 12-hours, checking every 2-3 hours, until the tomato slices are very dry but still pliable. They should not brown or be crisp. Let cool completely at room temperature, then remove from parchment sheets and store in a wide-mouth canning jar. Cut a piece of muslin then close with ring. Store at room temperature - dried tomatoes make a quick and delicious cream sauce for fish, chicken or pasta. Cut dried tomatoes into
thin strips - add to ½ c. chicken stock and simmer with a whole peeled garlic clove until the tomatoes are rehydrated. Add 1 c. heavy cream, 1 T. butter, S&white pepper to taste, then raise temperature and reduce slightly until the sauce coats a spoon. Remove garlic clove and toss with pasta or use as a cream sauce with grilled fish or chicken. Do not store dried tomatoes in oil - although you can buy commercially prepared sundried tomatoes in oil, it’s a very bad idea to pack any home-d dried fruit or vegetable in oil because of a distant threat of botulism, a rare but serious food-borne disease, often found in improperly canned food. Botulism can grow without the presence of oxygen, so only high-acid foods (like tomatoes,pickles,salsas) or sugar-laden (preserves, jellies, jams, some fruits in sugar syrup) can be safely canned in a water-bath canner. Lots more than I can tell you in this space, so refer to canning info provided at www.freshpreserving.com/canning-101getting-started. from Ball. Lots of accessories and recipes, too. CLEANING OUT THE GARDEN VEGETABLE STEWMy grandmother of course had a lot of recipes, this was one we always ate at the end of the growing season. Dice one medium onion and in 1T. Oil, begin to cook over low heat in a medium saucepan. Add 4 c. peeled and diced tomatoes, 1 c. large raw lima beans, 1-3 tsp. Sugar, S&P to taste. Cook over medium low heat, lid on, until the limas are almost tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in either 2 c.sliced fresh okra or a dozen or more small whole pods. Add ½ tomato sauce to ½ water if you need more liquid, cover. Cook until okra and limas are tender, about another five minutes. OR make a favorite standby, ratatouille. Roughly dice equal amounts of onion, eggplant, zucchini, red and green peppers, yellow squash (example 2 c. each) and double the amount of peeled and seeded tomatoes (example 4 c. tomatoes). In a heavy deep saute pan, heat ¼ c. olive oil, then add the diced onions along with 2 peeled and diced garlic cloves and a sprig of fresh thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until onion is softened but not browned. Stir in all vegetables except tomatoes, raise heat a bit and saute, stirring often, about five minutes or until most of the moisture is cooked from the vegetables (add more olive oil by the tablespoon if needed).. Reduce the heat to medium low, stir in tomatoes and S&P to taste, and cook another 5-10 minutes until cooked through. Don’t overcook as the vegetables should mostly maintain their shape. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, serve hot, cold or at room temperature. Now I’ll “See You in October”!
Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Hours Monday - Saturday, 9am to 9pm; Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor
Serving Breakfast Sandwiches 10am ~ 11:30am Lunch 10am ~ 4pm Open Monday ~ Saturday 10am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline corner of Caroline & George Streets
S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S
Serving Great Food Since 1981
Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street
(540) 371-2008
Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
13
Cooking With Kyle
SpiritS Mojito duo
turkey wraps
WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!
by james kyle snyder
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
Serves 4
14
September 2016
aid with a whisk attachment to break up the clumps - drain and reserve. While that is cooking, cook ½ C grated carrots in ½ C of water over high heat in a large non-stick pan until the water is evaporated. Lower the heat to medium and add 1C chopper shitake mushrooms (buttons will work), 8 oz chopped water chestnuts, 5 cloves minced garlic, and 1 T minced ginger to the carrots, stirring frequently until liquid is gone. Add back the turkey, ? C teriyaki, 1 T sesame oil, 1 T rice vinegar, ¼ C hoisin sauce, ¼ C plum sauce, and ½ C diced green onions. That is it! Total prep – cook – to the table time is about 15 minutes. Put the mixture in a fancy bowl and deconstruct a head or two of romaine hearts. The mixture goes in the lettuce and then you wrap it up to eat it. No other silverware necessary. Mitzi and I were privileged to a meal at their house, which had this gem as the centerpiece. On difference they do is add 4 T of creamy peanut butter in the middle of the cook to give it a creamy peanut buttery taste. Delicious! If you like noodles this would be awesome over rice vermicelli or with thicker Korean noodles. Another option is to add a broth and Asian vegetables to turn it into a soup. Take a minute to try this winner and all its differing variations to figure out your favorite and then share it with your friend for an easy evening of fun. As always, making great times is simple, easy, and should be delicious. Be well! Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate and your other senses when it comes to good, simple, healthy eating
Front porch fredericksburg
Soak 4 bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes. Prepare a gas or charcoal grill for direct high-heat grilling (alternately, preheat the broiler). In a medium bowl, whisk together the rum, mint leaves, lime juice, olive oil, sugar, lime zest and salt. Add the shrimp and mix to coat, then let stand for 10 minutes. Thread the shrimp on the skewers, dividing evenly, and grill or broil, turning once, until bright pink and sizzling, for 4 to 5 minutes. Serve hot.
And if you want to add this authentic Mojito to drink while you are grilling:
Real Deal Mojito 1 serving 10 fresh mint leaf ½ lime cut into 4 wedges 2 tbls white suger
vegan, vegetarian & seafood Kitchen & Bar Opens in Downtown
By M.L. Powers
MOJITO SHRIMP
Friends, food, and great memories. Sound familiar? Many of my favorite memories have involved an unbelievable meal at some point in sequence of events. So begins this story with Jim Tharp and Laurie Bendal. I have been hanging out with Jim and Laurie individually for as long as my Fredericksburg memories go back. Many meals have been shared from Laurie’s schlag (a whipped cream treat) to Jimmers’ beef stroganoff. Individually, they were culinary giants in their own rights. Jim has a particular proclivity towards healthier, more natural foods. He has multiple different juicers to ensure the correct extraction and is meticulous in process, procedure, and product. Laurie echoes his efforts with her natural fastidious nature and every curious exploration of how to make things “better.” Since recently joining forces through an alignment of the stars and an intuitive cupid, Laurie and Jim have furthered their efforts, combining styles and techniques. I am a frequent benefactor of this evolution and have obtained permission to share this modified version of their turkey wraps. Theirs were delicious! The adjustments were to adjust their offering to my preference and make it my own. As we have discussed many times, I encourage you to make the recipe exactly as is the first time through and then adjust it to what you like. No harm, no foul. This healthier-than-beef option fulfills the need for flavor and substance You start by cooking 20 oz of ground turkey until the pink is gone (5 mins). If a loose crumble is desired, use a kitchen
Etc. Fredericksburg, VA
Simple to make and quick to cook, these snappy shrimp are inspired by the cocktail of the same name, and the marinade includes many of the same ingredients. Because the acid in the lime juice can "cook" the shrimp, only marinate them for 10 minutes before cooking, Otherwise, they'll become rubbery.
1/4 cup white rum 1/4 cup mint leaves, coarsely chopped 1/4 cup lime juice 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp sugar Zest of 2 limes 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 lb medium shrimp, shelled and deveined
Soup & Taco, 813 Caroline St.
by Jessica Battilana
LEGUME
The
Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738
1 ice cube 1 ½ fluid oz white rum 1.2 cuo club soda
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Place mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice. Add 2 more lime wedges and the sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice. Do not strain the mixture. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice, and fill the glass with carbonated water. Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired. Garnish with the remaining lime wedge.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Front Porch Fredericksburg
The General Store
Restaurant
Since 1978
Italian/American Food Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm
371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
left to right: Emily Elthorpe (manager), Justin Cunningham (chef/owner), Raymond Renault (chef/owner), Jessica Renault (owner), Matt Ellis(Sous-C Chef). Two little girls, Giselle and Naomi Renault. Many vegans in Fredericksburg are anxiously waiting for the opening of our first vegetarian restaurant. Down to the wire, Legume should be open by the time you read this article. At the time of our interview, they were waiting for only one more permit, and they would be good to go. Legume came into existence after Raymond and Jessica Renault of LaPetite Auberge realized what a niche there is for this type of eatery. Raymond said there were more and more people asking for this option at LaPetite. The Renaults have partnered with Justin Cunningham, whose first start in town was a lunch bar called Fizzlebottoms in the Made in Virginia store, and after that as Executive Chef at Spencer Devon Brewery. The team has some fun plans for the newly renovated 713 Caroline St. spot. If you had visited the prior establishment, you would probably not recognize it as the same building. They have opened up the back to bring in the natural light, and added colors that give a welcoming ambience as you walk in the door. Jessica has a good eye for design and has been working diligently on the project. The day I visited, Joelle Cathleen was helping to paint the support poles in a typical Joelle (tree) fashion. They have kept the basic design concept, and intend to use the lounge as a music and game area. The menu (subject to changes) looks mouth watering. Some of the vegetarian items like crispy eggplant with honey, rosemary and goat cheese dip, Snead’s Farm corn chowder, marinated Camembert, a Georgian Aubergine salad
that sounds like a take on Ratatouille will be some of the first items on my to try list. Legume will also have some seafood items for the pescatarian folks. Crab cakes are always a temptation for me, as are the Monkfish and Salmon entrees. I am looking forward to a good Falafel sandwich, as this is hard to find in Fredericksburg. Both of the owners are trained chefs. Raymond graduated from Johnson and Wales in 2003, and later worked at Equinox in DC before coming back to Fredericksburg to work with his father, and eventually taking the reins for the acclaimed French restaurant, LaPetite Auberge. Justin trained at the Florida Culinary Institute before moving to Fredericksburg with his wife who teaches in Prince William County. The Renaults have brought only one of their employees with them from LaPetite. Emily who is a server will take over the front of house management. She has worked for LaPetite for a few years, and is ready for a new challenge. Many of their employees, such as Sherry, the present manager and Paco, a chef in the kitchen have been there since LaPetite’s opening, 35 years ago. Marti and Wayne who work in the dining room and bar have over twenty years with the Renaults. In the restaurant business, this says something. Mostly known as a fly by night kind of business, the places that keep employees are the ones that build history with the community and each other. So, here’s to Legume - we wish you great success!
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
15
Cooking With Kyle
SpiritS Mojito duo
turkey wraps
WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!
by james kyle snyder
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
Serves 4
14
September 2016
aid with a whisk attachment to break up the clumps - drain and reserve. While that is cooking, cook ½ C grated carrots in ½ C of water over high heat in a large non-stick pan until the water is evaporated. Lower the heat to medium and add 1C chopper shitake mushrooms (buttons will work), 8 oz chopped water chestnuts, 5 cloves minced garlic, and 1 T minced ginger to the carrots, stirring frequently until liquid is gone. Add back the turkey, ? C teriyaki, 1 T sesame oil, 1 T rice vinegar, ¼ C hoisin sauce, ¼ C plum sauce, and ½ C diced green onions. That is it! Total prep – cook – to the table time is about 15 minutes. Put the mixture in a fancy bowl and deconstruct a head or two of romaine hearts. The mixture goes in the lettuce and then you wrap it up to eat it. No other silverware necessary. Mitzi and I were privileged to a meal at their house, which had this gem as the centerpiece. On difference they do is add 4 T of creamy peanut butter in the middle of the cook to give it a creamy peanut buttery taste. Delicious! If you like noodles this would be awesome over rice vermicelli or with thicker Korean noodles. Another option is to add a broth and Asian vegetables to turn it into a soup. Take a minute to try this winner and all its differing variations to figure out your favorite and then share it with your friend for an easy evening of fun. As always, making great times is simple, easy, and should be delicious. Be well! Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate and your other senses when it comes to good, simple, healthy eating
Front porch fredericksburg
Soak 4 bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes. Prepare a gas or charcoal grill for direct high-heat grilling (alternately, preheat the broiler). In a medium bowl, whisk together the rum, mint leaves, lime juice, olive oil, sugar, lime zest and salt. Add the shrimp and mix to coat, then let stand for 10 minutes. Thread the shrimp on the skewers, dividing evenly, and grill or broil, turning once, until bright pink and sizzling, for 4 to 5 minutes. Serve hot.
And if you want to add this authentic Mojito to drink while you are grilling:
Real Deal Mojito 1 serving 10 fresh mint leaf ½ lime cut into 4 wedges 2 tbls white suger
vegan, vegetarian & seafood Kitchen & Bar Opens in Downtown
By M.L. Powers
MOJITO SHRIMP
Friends, food, and great memories. Sound familiar? Many of my favorite memories have involved an unbelievable meal at some point in sequence of events. So begins this story with Jim Tharp and Laurie Bendal. I have been hanging out with Jim and Laurie individually for as long as my Fredericksburg memories go back. Many meals have been shared from Laurie’s schlag (a whipped cream treat) to Jimmers’ beef stroganoff. Individually, they were culinary giants in their own rights. Jim has a particular proclivity towards healthier, more natural foods. He has multiple different juicers to ensure the correct extraction and is meticulous in process, procedure, and product. Laurie echoes his efforts with her natural fastidious nature and every curious exploration of how to make things “better.” Since recently joining forces through an alignment of the stars and an intuitive cupid, Laurie and Jim have furthered their efforts, combining styles and techniques. I am a frequent benefactor of this evolution and have obtained permission to share this modified version of their turkey wraps. Theirs were delicious! The adjustments were to adjust their offering to my preference and make it my own. As we have discussed many times, I encourage you to make the recipe exactly as is the first time through and then adjust it to what you like. No harm, no foul. This healthier-than-beef option fulfills the need for flavor and substance You start by cooking 20 oz of ground turkey until the pink is gone (5 mins). If a loose crumble is desired, use a kitchen
Etc. Fredericksburg, VA
Simple to make and quick to cook, these snappy shrimp are inspired by the cocktail of the same name, and the marinade includes many of the same ingredients. Because the acid in the lime juice can "cook" the shrimp, only marinate them for 10 minutes before cooking, Otherwise, they'll become rubbery.
1/4 cup white rum 1/4 cup mint leaves, coarsely chopped 1/4 cup lime juice 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp sugar Zest of 2 limes 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 lb medium shrimp, shelled and deveined
Soup & Taco, 813 Caroline St.
by Jessica Battilana
LEGUME
The
Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738
1 ice cube 1 ½ fluid oz white rum 1.2 cuo club soda
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Place mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice. Add 2 more lime wedges and the sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice. Do not strain the mixture. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice, and fill the glass with carbonated water. Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired. Garnish with the remaining lime wedge.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Front Porch Fredericksburg
The General Store
Restaurant
Since 1978
Italian/American Food Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm
371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
left to right: Emily Elthorpe (manager), Justin Cunningham (chef/owner), Raymond Renault (chef/owner), Jessica Renault (owner), Matt Ellis(Sous-C Chef). Two little girls, Giselle and Naomi Renault. Many vegans in Fredericksburg are anxiously waiting for the opening of our first vegetarian restaurant. Down to the wire, Legume should be open by the time you read this article. At the time of our interview, they were waiting for only one more permit, and they would be good to go. Legume came into existence after Raymond and Jessica Renault of LaPetite Auberge realized what a niche there is for this type of eatery. Raymond said there were more and more people asking for this option at LaPetite. The Renaults have partnered with Justin Cunningham, whose first start in town was a lunch bar called Fizzlebottoms in the Made in Virginia store, and after that as Executive Chef at Spencer Devon Brewery. The team has some fun plans for the newly renovated 713 Caroline St. spot. If you had visited the prior establishment, you would probably not recognize it as the same building. They have opened up the back to bring in the natural light, and added colors that give a welcoming ambience as you walk in the door. Jessica has a good eye for design and has been working diligently on the project. The day I visited, Joelle Cathleen was helping to paint the support poles in a typical Joelle (tree) fashion. They have kept the basic design concept, and intend to use the lounge as a music and game area. The menu (subject to changes) looks mouth watering. Some of the vegetarian items like crispy eggplant with honey, rosemary and goat cheese dip, Snead’s Farm corn chowder, marinated Camembert, a Georgian Aubergine salad
that sounds like a take on Ratatouille will be some of the first items on my to try list. Legume will also have some seafood items for the pescatarian folks. Crab cakes are always a temptation for me, as are the Monkfish and Salmon entrees. I am looking forward to a good Falafel sandwich, as this is hard to find in Fredericksburg. Both of the owners are trained chefs. Raymond graduated from Johnson and Wales in 2003, and later worked at Equinox in DC before coming back to Fredericksburg to work with his father, and eventually taking the reins for the acclaimed French restaurant, LaPetite Auberge. Justin trained at the Florida Culinary Institute before moving to Fredericksburg with his wife who teaches in Prince William County. The Renaults have brought only one of their employees with them from LaPetite. Emily who is a server will take over the front of house management. She has worked for LaPetite for a few years, and is ready for a new challenge. Many of their employees, such as Sherry, the present manager and Paco, a chef in the kitchen have been there since LaPetite’s opening, 35 years ago. Marti and Wayne who work in the dining room and bar have over twenty years with the Renaults. In the restaurant business, this says something. Mostly known as a fly by night kind of business, the places that keep employees are the ones that build history with the community and each other. So, here’s to Legume - we wish you great success!
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
15
CALENDAR of events
sept 2016… Art Invasion, Book Fairs, Wine Tours, Pub Crawls....What’s Not to Love in September! Thursday, September 1
The Adaptations Up on the Roof! @ Vivify Burger & Lounge, kick off the Labor Day weekend with some seriously soulful rockin rowdy funky folky bluesy countrified acoustic music. 7pm Colonial Seafood, Larry Hinkle & Co Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info Witches, Ghost, Murder and Mayhem Carriage Ride @ Olde Towne Carriage Stand
First Friday, September 2
Saturday, September 3
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Satruday in Mary's Garden, Make a grapevine wreath, 12n, Mary Washington House, 1200 Charles St FREE Art Supply Swap @ Kingdom Inspiration Gallery, 1008 Sophia St 2pm
Monday, September 5 Labor Day
Tuesday, September 6
Christine Lush Rodriguez presents a fresh new look at her marvelous botanical/oceanic , Fruitoid forms. At Artful Dimensions Gallery, 911 Charles Street. Meet the artist 6-9pm
Open Mic Night @ Bistro Bethem Join us for food and drink specials and live music from 8 to 11 PM. No cover!
810 Weekend Gallery will celebrate First Friday on September 2 from 6-8:30 pm. Stop by to see new works by Beverley Coates (watercolors), Penny A Parrish (photography) and Lynn Abbott (acrylics and oils). The Gallery is located at 810 Caroline Street and open from 10-5 daily. An artist is on site every Saturday.
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.
"Points of Reference" Exhibition Opening Reception @ PONSHOP Studio and Gallery an exhibition featuring Leesburg artist James Walker. Opening reception 6-10
Mega Jim Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Defying Physics: Constructs and De-Constructs @ Art First Gallery artist David Lovegrove rarely sketches or photographs the beautiful or the polished. Often using recognizable landmarks he alters images to convey meaning through the worn, broken, neglected or unfinished.. Opening reception 6-9pm. Show thru September 1st Friday @ Kingdom Inspiration, 1008 Sophia St, 6-9pm The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm FCCA “Faces & Figures”, Juried show, main. Sheila Jones & Ina Moss in Members Gallery Uniquely Spotsylvania Art Show CRRL Salem Br.
Wednesday, September 7
Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 8
Friday, September 9
Our Living Legacies: The Beauty, Taste and Healing of Gardens @ Hugh Mercer Apothecary, Mary Washington House and Rising Sun Tavern $ Fair Trade Fashion Show featuring clothing and accessories from local fair trade, socially responsible and online merchants, not for sale but to raise awareness about labor trafficking in the fashion industry. Give aways and refreshments afterwards. Local singer Anthony Campbell will be the MC. Sponsored by Central Virginia Justice Initiative. CRRL 7-8:30pm
Saturday, September 10
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Prohibition Pub Crawl, presented by HFFI, info at 540-371-4504 or facebook
Doggone Pool Party @ Loriella Park Bring your furry friend out for a dip in the pool before we close for the season at our 13th Annual Doggone Pool Party!! 9-11:30am "Books & Beer" Pub Crawl, CRRL. Pub crawlers will have the choice of discussing two short story collections, either Mattaponi Queen, by Belle Boggs, or Full Dark, No Stars, by Stephen King, while enjoying wonderful food and drink. The pub crawl kicks off at Castiglia's Italian Restaurant, 324 William Street, Fredericksburg, at 2:00 PM, moves to Brock's Riverside Grill, 503 Sophia Street, at 3:00 PM, then makes its final stop at Spencer Devon Brewing, 106 George Street, at 4:00 PM. call 540-899-1703. There is no charge to register for the event, but beverages and food will be available for purchase at each venue. You must be 21 or over to attend the pub crawl. History comes alive at the 9th Annual Yankees in Falmouth! 401 River Road Historic Port of Falmouth Park. All Day paws4vets 3rd Annual GOT YOUR BACK Dog Walk @ Old Mill Park, 9am-1pm paws4vets is a program of paws4people foundation that provides Assistance Dogs to transform the lives of activeduty military, veterans and dependants. $ Fine Arts Festival @ Workhouse Arts Center, 150+ of the nation's finest artists , 10am-6pm For more information, please visit www.workhousearts.org/fall-arts-festival, or email info@workhousearts.org, or call the Workhouse Arts Center at (703) 584-2900. Admission and parking are free.
Music by Moonlight Concert @ 26th Annual Music by Moonlight Free concert presented by The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary, featuring the Fredericksburg Big Band to benefit sending kids to Camp HappyLand., 7-10pm, Hurkamp Park
Sunday, September 11
Eden Try Estate Winery open for tours, 6818 River Rd, Fredericksburg, Fine Arts Festival @ Workhouse Arts Center, 150+ of the nation's finest artists , 10am-5pm For more information, please visit www.workhousearts.org/fall-arts-festival, or email info@workhousearts.org, or call the Workhouse Arts Center at (703) 584-2900. Admission and parking are free. Planning a wedding? Attend the Save the Date Downtown Fredericksburg Local Bridal Show and let the Silk Mill help you with your wedding needs. Meet with local vendors, view a fabulous runway show, and enter to win our Ultimate Wedding Giveaway! 1-4pm, 1707 Princess Anne St
Tuesday, September 13
Picnic in the Park, Roots Rock, Scott Kurt FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 14
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Art Attack Fredericksburg @ Downtown Fredericksburg (Caroline and William Streets), 10am-4pm For one day, artists of the Fredericksburg region will be demonstrating their creative talent on the sidewalks of downtown. See pg 19 for more info. Pizza Palooza! Fundraiser for the FredericksburgEste Association, the Italian sister city organization. Admission $1, Pizza by the slice $1, beers by Spencer Devon Brewery, and Italian wines, $5 a serving. 5-9 PM, Market Square. Music by Acoustic Onion. FredEste.org Fred-Este.org. (see page & 30 of this month's FPF for more info) Local writer Paul Gustavson will be doing a book signing and talk at Agora Downtown Coffee Shop , 9am-1pm Gustavson is author of "Leaders Press On: Discovering the Power of Perseverance" & also co-founder of SimVentions and a founding partner of the John Maxwell Team. Heiwa Matsuri Fall Festival @ Aikido in Fredericksburg Heiwa Matsuri is a traditional Japanese holiday to celebrate seasonal harvest and local community.a family oriented day of fun, 10am-3pm FREE 6155 Hickory Ridge Rd Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Rappahannock Riverfest an all-you-can eat crab feast to celebrate the health and beauty of the Rappahannock 12475 Farley Vale Drive off Route 3 East King George, contact nate.cadwallender@riverfriends.org, See pg 27 for more info
Sunday, September 18
Indie artist, Shane Alexander is on tour promoting his new record, BLISS and will be at Kenmore Inn 1200 Princess Anne St, 7pm. NO CHARGE See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Thursday, September 15
Eden Try Estate Winery open for tours, 6818 River Rd, Fredericksburg,
Virginia is for Mysteries @ Salem Church Library, 11am-2pm meet the writers and see if Virginia is for Mysteries Volume II includes your favorite Virginia location
Friday, September 16
Songfest Sundays: The Mashup @ John Lee Pratt Memorial Park live bands perform from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Celebration Stage Admission is $10.00 per car
Paulo Franco Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
Saturday, September 17
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
Tuesday, September 20
Picnic in the Park, Country/Rock, Wil Gravett & Jimbo Byram FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 21
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 22
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info Art After Hours Music on the Lawn, unique refreshments from local vendors and free gallery tours welcome visitors new and old. Free. Beverage tickets and food purchases extra. Gari Melchers Home abd Studio at Belmont 224 Washington St.
Friday, September 23
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
Saturday September 24
4th Annual Genealogy Day @ Fredericksburg City Main Library, Multi-topic presentations on the how-tos of Genealogy.9am-1pm The Chamber Chorale of Fredericksburg will present its first of three concerts this season, Honoring Everyday Heroes, at The Presbyterian Church, 810 Princess Anne STt concert will feature patriotic and popular songs along with the premier of American Heroes in Red, White and Blue. Tickets and information are available at ccfbg.org or by calling 540-898-0458. Bourbon & Boxwood @ Mary Washington House ome celebrate the home of Mary Washington, mother of our country's first president, and raise money for the Washington Heritage Museums, 710pm
Tuesday, September 27
Picnic in the Park, The New Canoe Canals w/ Becky y Slams FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 28
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Downtown Sidewalk Sale FXBG Independent Book Festival, Riverfront Park on Ssophia St,10a-5p. fredbookfest@gmail.com B'Day Celebration for Gen. Lafayette hosted by FSCA at Fredericksburg Square., 525 Carole Street. Tickets info for this three-course meal and dinner wine service. is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com. FSCA1980@gmail.com (see page 6 & 9 of this month's FPF for more info) Huge! Yes, HUGE! Community Yardsale - Fundraiser @ Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy kids activities, food trucks Demonstrations by police K-9s, the barrel train, a bounce house, Academy tours, 9am-1pm, 3630 Lee Hill Dr FREE SAT Prep Course @ The Manigault Institute at The Fairfield Inn Stafford 540 720-0861
Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 29
Rob Williams Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Friday, September 30
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
If you are reading this 230th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 20th year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for October 2016 issue is September 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
2947 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join
Front Porch on 16
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
17
CALENDAR of events
sept 2016… Art Invasion, Book Fairs, Wine Tours, Pub Crawls....What’s Not to Love in September! Thursday, September 1
The Adaptations Up on the Roof! @ Vivify Burger & Lounge, kick off the Labor Day weekend with some seriously soulful rockin rowdy funky folky bluesy countrified acoustic music. 7pm Colonial Seafood, Larry Hinkle & Co Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info Witches, Ghost, Murder and Mayhem Carriage Ride @ Olde Towne Carriage Stand
First Friday, September 2
Saturday, September 3
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Satruday in Mary's Garden, Make a grapevine wreath, 12n, Mary Washington House, 1200 Charles St FREE Art Supply Swap @ Kingdom Inspiration Gallery, 1008 Sophia St 2pm
Monday, September 5 Labor Day
Tuesday, September 6
Christine Lush Rodriguez presents a fresh new look at her marvelous botanical/oceanic , Fruitoid forms. At Artful Dimensions Gallery, 911 Charles Street. Meet the artist 6-9pm
Open Mic Night @ Bistro Bethem Join us for food and drink specials and live music from 8 to 11 PM. No cover!
810 Weekend Gallery will celebrate First Friday on September 2 from 6-8:30 pm. Stop by to see new works by Beverley Coates (watercolors), Penny A Parrish (photography) and Lynn Abbott (acrylics and oils). The Gallery is located at 810 Caroline Street and open from 10-5 daily. An artist is on site every Saturday.
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.
"Points of Reference" Exhibition Opening Reception @ PONSHOP Studio and Gallery an exhibition featuring Leesburg artist James Walker. Opening reception 6-10
Mega Jim Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Defying Physics: Constructs and De-Constructs @ Art First Gallery artist David Lovegrove rarely sketches or photographs the beautiful or the polished. Often using recognizable landmarks he alters images to convey meaning through the worn, broken, neglected or unfinished.. Opening reception 6-9pm. Show thru September 1st Friday @ Kingdom Inspiration, 1008 Sophia St, 6-9pm The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm FCCA “Faces & Figures”, Juried show, main. Sheila Jones & Ina Moss in Members Gallery Uniquely Spotsylvania Art Show CRRL Salem Br.
Wednesday, September 7
Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 8
Friday, September 9
Our Living Legacies: The Beauty, Taste and Healing of Gardens @ Hugh Mercer Apothecary, Mary Washington House and Rising Sun Tavern $ Fair Trade Fashion Show featuring clothing and accessories from local fair trade, socially responsible and online merchants, not for sale but to raise awareness about labor trafficking in the fashion industry. Give aways and refreshments afterwards. Local singer Anthony Campbell will be the MC. Sponsored by Central Virginia Justice Initiative. CRRL 7-8:30pm
Saturday, September 10
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Prohibition Pub Crawl, presented by HFFI, info at 540-371-4504 or facebook
Doggone Pool Party @ Loriella Park Bring your furry friend out for a dip in the pool before we close for the season at our 13th Annual Doggone Pool Party!! 9-11:30am "Books & Beer" Pub Crawl, CRRL. Pub crawlers will have the choice of discussing two short story collections, either Mattaponi Queen, by Belle Boggs, or Full Dark, No Stars, by Stephen King, while enjoying wonderful food and drink. The pub crawl kicks off at Castiglia's Italian Restaurant, 324 William Street, Fredericksburg, at 2:00 PM, moves to Brock's Riverside Grill, 503 Sophia Street, at 3:00 PM, then makes its final stop at Spencer Devon Brewing, 106 George Street, at 4:00 PM. call 540-899-1703. There is no charge to register for the event, but beverages and food will be available for purchase at each venue. You must be 21 or over to attend the pub crawl. History comes alive at the 9th Annual Yankees in Falmouth! 401 River Road Historic Port of Falmouth Park. All Day paws4vets 3rd Annual GOT YOUR BACK Dog Walk @ Old Mill Park, 9am-1pm paws4vets is a program of paws4people foundation that provides Assistance Dogs to transform the lives of activeduty military, veterans and dependants. $ Fine Arts Festival @ Workhouse Arts Center, 150+ of the nation's finest artists , 10am-6pm For more information, please visit www.workhousearts.org/fall-arts-festival, or email info@workhousearts.org, or call the Workhouse Arts Center at (703) 584-2900. Admission and parking are free.
Music by Moonlight Concert @ 26th Annual Music by Moonlight Free concert presented by The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary, featuring the Fredericksburg Big Band to benefit sending kids to Camp HappyLand., 7-10pm, Hurkamp Park
Sunday, September 11
Eden Try Estate Winery open for tours, 6818 River Rd, Fredericksburg, Fine Arts Festival @ Workhouse Arts Center, 150+ of the nation's finest artists , 10am-5pm For more information, please visit www.workhousearts.org/fall-arts-festival, or email info@workhousearts.org, or call the Workhouse Arts Center at (703) 584-2900. Admission and parking are free. Planning a wedding? Attend the Save the Date Downtown Fredericksburg Local Bridal Show and let the Silk Mill help you with your wedding needs. Meet with local vendors, view a fabulous runway show, and enter to win our Ultimate Wedding Giveaway! 1-4pm, 1707 Princess Anne St
Tuesday, September 13
Picnic in the Park, Roots Rock, Scott Kurt FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 14
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Art Attack Fredericksburg @ Downtown Fredericksburg (Caroline and William Streets), 10am-4pm For one day, artists of the Fredericksburg region will be demonstrating their creative talent on the sidewalks of downtown. See pg 19 for more info. Pizza Palooza! Fundraiser for the FredericksburgEste Association, the Italian sister city organization. Admission $1, Pizza by the slice $1, beers by Spencer Devon Brewery, and Italian wines, $5 a serving. 5-9 PM, Market Square. Music by Acoustic Onion. FredEste.org Fred-Este.org. (see page & 30 of this month's FPF for more info) Local writer Paul Gustavson will be doing a book signing and talk at Agora Downtown Coffee Shop , 9am-1pm Gustavson is author of "Leaders Press On: Discovering the Power of Perseverance" & also co-founder of SimVentions and a founding partner of the John Maxwell Team. Heiwa Matsuri Fall Festival @ Aikido in Fredericksburg Heiwa Matsuri is a traditional Japanese holiday to celebrate seasonal harvest and local community.a family oriented day of fun, 10am-3pm FREE 6155 Hickory Ridge Rd Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Rappahannock Riverfest an all-you-can eat crab feast to celebrate the health and beauty of the Rappahannock 12475 Farley Vale Drive off Route 3 East King George, contact nate.cadwallender@riverfriends.org, See pg 27 for more info
Sunday, September 18
Indie artist, Shane Alexander is on tour promoting his new record, BLISS and will be at Kenmore Inn 1200 Princess Anne St, 7pm. NO CHARGE See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Thursday, September 15
Eden Try Estate Winery open for tours, 6818 River Rd, Fredericksburg,
Virginia is for Mysteries @ Salem Church Library, 11am-2pm meet the writers and see if Virginia is for Mysteries Volume II includes your favorite Virginia location
Friday, September 16
Songfest Sundays: The Mashup @ John Lee Pratt Memorial Park live bands perform from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Celebration Stage Admission is $10.00 per car
Paulo Franco Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
Saturday, September 17
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
Tuesday, September 20
Picnic in the Park, Country/Rock, Wil Gravett & Jimbo Byram FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 21
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 22
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar See our ad on pg 12 for more info Art After Hours Music on the Lawn, unique refreshments from local vendors and free gallery tours welcome visitors new and old. Free. Beverage tickets and food purchases extra. Gari Melchers Home abd Studio at Belmont 224 Washington St.
Friday, September 23
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
Saturday September 24
4th Annual Genealogy Day @ Fredericksburg City Main Library, Multi-topic presentations on the how-tos of Genealogy.9am-1pm The Chamber Chorale of Fredericksburg will present its first of three concerts this season, Honoring Everyday Heroes, at The Presbyterian Church, 810 Princess Anne STt concert will feature patriotic and popular songs along with the premier of American Heroes in Red, White and Blue. Tickets and information are available at ccfbg.org or by calling 540-898-0458. Bourbon & Boxwood @ Mary Washington House ome celebrate the home of Mary Washington, mother of our country's first president, and raise money for the Washington Heritage Museums, 710pm
Tuesday, September 27
Picnic in the Park, The New Canoe Canals w/ Becky y Slams FREE concert at Hurkamp Park, 11:30 to 1:30pm.FXBG Pks &Rec
Wednesday, September 28
Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Downtown Sidewalk Sale FXBG Independent Book Festival, Riverfront Park on Ssophia St,10a-5p. fredbookfest@gmail.com B'Day Celebration for Gen. Lafayette hosted by FSCA at Fredericksburg Square., 525 Carole Street. Tickets info for this three-course meal and dinner wine service. is online at fredericksburgfrejus.com. FSCA1980@gmail.com (see page 6 & 9 of this month's FPF for more info) Huge! Yes, HUGE! Community Yardsale - Fundraiser @ Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy kids activities, food trucks Demonstrations by police K-9s, the barrel train, a bounce house, Academy tours, 9am-1pm, 3630 Lee Hill Dr FREE SAT Prep Course @ The Manigault Institute at The Fairfield Inn Stafford 540 720-0861
Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com
Thursday, September 29
Rob Williams Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info
Friday, September 30
The Wave, Jazz with Frank Sinatra Standards @ Castglia's downstairs lounge, 6:30 - 10pm
If you are reading this 230th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 20th year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for October 2016 issue is September 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
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history’s stories
COURT HOUSE 1852 By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
WET OR DRY? PROHIBITION IN FXBG By barbara anderson
I believe there is no other Court House in Virginia that has the beauty of the Court House in Fredericksburg. It was not an easy task since it took over thirty years of political struggle. Corporation Council finally made the decision despite a petition signed by 172 voters not to construct it.
Prior to this the Fredericksburg Courthouse served not only Fredericksburg, but Spotsylvania County. This continued as the Fredericksburg Hustings Court until 1889 when it was called the Corporation Court. Spotsylvania had its own Court House beginning that year. The earlier Court house stood on the same site. John Marshall and James Monroe among other famous Virginians were often seen in the original building. James Renwick of Baltimore who is famous for the design of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City and “The Castle” of the Smithsonian, designed the Fredericksburg Court building in a French Gothic style. In the Courthouse tower unknown to many is a six-hundred-pound bell that was cast in Boston by the Paul Revere foundry. The bell is the only one known to exist in Virginia of the one-hundred and thirty-four that were made by the Foundry. The bell was a donation from a New York resident by the name of Silas Wood in 1828. Silas Wood in 1816 married Julia Ann Chew Brock. Julia was related to the Chew family who for ninety-nine years were the Clerks of the court succeeding each other by appointment and election in direct lineal line. John Chew, Jr. was appointed on August 6, 1787. He was succeeded in 1806 by his son Robert Chew who was succeeded by his son John Chew in 1826. Robert Chew was succeeded by his son Robert S. Chew who served until his death in 1886 There are many interesting document in the vaults of the Court House that date back to and before the Revolution. The Will of Mary Washington written by James Mercer who was Chief Justice of the highest court of Virginia. Today the old Court House stands alone, having been replaced by a new modern facility a few hundred yards down Princess Anne Street. Jeff Small is the Clerk of the Court today carrying on a tradition that would make our former Clerks of the Court proud.
In memory of Joyce Hawald, Ron Beverly, Martha Broyles and Larry Estes Tuffy Hicks unearths little known and interesting facts about FXBG each month in this space.
Central Rappahannock Heritage Center
Virginia’s only Regional Archive The Heritage Center
18
OUR HERITAGE
September 2016
Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net Front porch fredericksburg
Fredericksburg
Prohibition came early to Virginia. In 1886, the General Assembly passed the “local option,” which let each county decide. In May 1908, the people of Fredericksburg voted in a referendum to “go dry,” with 53 percent of the vote. All of Virginia went dry in 1916, and the 18th Amendment enacted national prohibition in 1920. By the mid-1920s, Prohibition violations in Fredericksburg became commonplace. Because Route One was the only paved road in the area, bootleggers used it to transport “ardent spirits.” Local police would hide next to the bridges and catch them as they entered town. When one rumrunner crashed on Deadman’s Curve near the National Cemetery, the liquor caught on fire and he was incinerated beyond recognition. Because bootleggers often used aliases, ensuing court cases often named the car as the defendant. In 1926, “Virginia vs. Packard Touring Car” involved the transport of 210 gallons of corn whiskey. In another case, two brothers-in-law were convicted for transporting 48 quarts of liquor. Each was fined $50 and given a sentence of 6 months. Moreover, as dictated by law, their car was confiscated and sold. Because bootlegged liquor was hard to get, some Fredericksburgers tried alternatives. “Vine-Glo” was a concentrated grape juice product. Instructions warned “Do not place the liquid in a jug away in the cupboard for 20 days, because then it would turn to wine.” Doctors could prescribe medicinal liquor for 27 ailments including cancer, diabetes, and depression. Each doctor could write up to 100 liquor prescriptions per month. Old newspaper stories reveal some colorful lawbreakers. “Poodles” Limerick was charged for transporting liquor. Albert Grimes was fined $20 for being drunk and carrying a concealed weapon (iron knuckles). Yat Sullivan, convicted of manufacturing and selling
liquor, was fined $250 (about 2 months’ salary) and sentenced to 3 months in jail. “Dinksy” Scott was arrested three times for “unlawfully and feloniously selling ardent spirits.” Dedicated drinkers had to know where to look to find liquor in Fredericksburg. Like drug dealers today, certain men on certain corners could be relied on to provide a bottle. At a nearby country store, people asking for a “pair of size eight shoes” would receive a discreetly wrapped package. Others went straight to the top, like the historian who claimed that the best whiskey he drank was served by a local judge. Although the term “speakeasy” is not used in court records, patrons of several establishments in town were arrested for drunk and disorderly conduct. The Virginia Cafe, the Athens Hotel, and the A-1 1 Cafe were well known for their rowdy customers. The owner of the Fredericksburg Cafe was charged with allowing drinking and gambling and running a “disorderly house.” Prohibition was repealed in 1933, but selling liquor in Virginia did not become legal until 1934 when the state established the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. In the first month, the ABC granted Fredericksburg 14 licenses to sell beer and wine, but it took another 35 years before liquor was sold by the drink. On February 9, 1969, the first mixed drink in Fredericksburg—a Tom Collins—was sold at the Princess Anne Inn. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Prohibition in Virginia, the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation is hosting a Prohibition Pub Tour on Sat, Sept 10. Call 371-4 4504 to buy tickets. Barbra Anderson is a member of the HFFI Board of Directors, head of the Events & Membership Committee, and enjoys researching local history for great events like the Prohibition Pub Tour.
Art Attack Artists taking it to the streets By ryan davis
explained that this event gives the artist a reason to start a work. Not only did the creators want it to be a free event, they want those visiting downtown to feel connected to the artists. Having the performance right there on the streets give onlookers the opportunity to stop and meet the artist: "One of the ways this positively impacts the community is the audience sees the process, gets to know the artist, and make a deeper connection to the art," Harris said.
Recruits ambushing downtown Fxbg may signal a familiar past for a city rich in Civil War history, but this is not for soldiers, it is a "call to arms" for local artists to participate in a live art demonstration on the city streets. "Art Attack" is a one-day grassroots event organized by local artists Gabriel Pons and Bill Harris to encourage the exposure and celebration of Fredericksburg's vibrant art community.
By connecting with art, the artists hope their example re-ignites the community's passion to work at their own artistic endeavors, no matter what age or stage they're at: "We're looking to attract the artist who didn't initially jump in with both feet or who are on the fringes," Pons said. Harris said, "I want to encourage young people to pursue art. They can do it. Art often has the power to fill a void." This year's event wil take place 4 on Saturday, September 17 from 10-4 p.m. on the sidewalks of Caroline Street corridor between Amelia & Charlotte St (700 block thru 1000 block), and William Street between Sophia & William Street (100 block thru 300 block). It began as a hometown movement organized in 2012 to bring the studio outside for an audience to see: "This event was birthed out of a desire to get the artists out there and to meet each other. We wanted a forum for artists to support one another and our larger community," said Bill Harris. The response from artists continues to be tremendous, in the events 5th year. They band together for a common cause, which has them both participating in, and supporting their passion: "They really enjoyed being able to perform their craft. There was a real comfort level in having the freedom to do what you wanted to do without parameters or restrictions, to essentially come and go as you pleased," said Pons. "The artist making the work is the art, the performance; the goal is not necessarily the finished product," stated Pons, who
Fredericksburg has been an ideal location to support Art Attack because this community has accepted a blend numerous people groups, cultures, and ideas. This city has become a home for transplants, and in so doing, has become a place of inclusion for the artists: "You have everything here: painters, sketchartists, jewelers, sculptors & potters; many others” says Pons. “In my opinion, the quality of art here is so rich it is on par or even better that what you'd find in metropolitan hubs such as Washington D.C. or Richmond." front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
19
history’s stories
COURT HOUSE 1852 By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
WET OR DRY? PROHIBITION IN FXBG By barbara anderson
I believe there is no other Court House in Virginia that has the beauty of the Court House in Fredericksburg. It was not an easy task since it took over thirty years of political struggle. Corporation Council finally made the decision despite a petition signed by 172 voters not to construct it.
Prior to this the Fredericksburg Courthouse served not only Fredericksburg, but Spotsylvania County. This continued as the Fredericksburg Hustings Court until 1889 when it was called the Corporation Court. Spotsylvania had its own Court House beginning that year. The earlier Court house stood on the same site. John Marshall and James Monroe among other famous Virginians were often seen in the original building. James Renwick of Baltimore who is famous for the design of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City and “The Castle” of the Smithsonian, designed the Fredericksburg Court building in a French Gothic style. In the Courthouse tower unknown to many is a six-hundred-pound bell that was cast in Boston by the Paul Revere foundry. The bell is the only one known to exist in Virginia of the one-hundred and thirty-four that were made by the Foundry. The bell was a donation from a New York resident by the name of Silas Wood in 1828. Silas Wood in 1816 married Julia Ann Chew Brock. Julia was related to the Chew family who for ninety-nine years were the Clerks of the court succeeding each other by appointment and election in direct lineal line. John Chew, Jr. was appointed on August 6, 1787. He was succeeded in 1806 by his son Robert Chew who was succeeded by his son John Chew in 1826. Robert Chew was succeeded by his son Robert S. Chew who served until his death in 1886 There are many interesting document in the vaults of the Court House that date back to and before the Revolution. The Will of Mary Washington written by James Mercer who was Chief Justice of the highest court of Virginia. Today the old Court House stands alone, having been replaced by a new modern facility a few hundred yards down Princess Anne Street. Jeff Small is the Clerk of the Court today carrying on a tradition that would make our former Clerks of the Court proud.
In memory of Joyce Hawald, Ron Beverly, Martha Broyles and Larry Estes Tuffy Hicks unearths little known and interesting facts about FXBG each month in this space.
Central Rappahannock Heritage Center
Virginia’s only Regional Archive The Heritage Center
18
OUR HERITAGE
September 2016
Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net Front porch fredericksburg
Fredericksburg
Prohibition came early to Virginia. In 1886, the General Assembly passed the “local option,” which let each county decide. In May 1908, the people of Fredericksburg voted in a referendum to “go dry,” with 53 percent of the vote. All of Virginia went dry in 1916, and the 18th Amendment enacted national prohibition in 1920. By the mid-1920s, Prohibition violations in Fredericksburg became commonplace. Because Route One was the only paved road in the area, bootleggers used it to transport “ardent spirits.” Local police would hide next to the bridges and catch them as they entered town. When one rumrunner crashed on Deadman’s Curve near the National Cemetery, the liquor caught on fire and he was incinerated beyond recognition. Because bootleggers often used aliases, ensuing court cases often named the car as the defendant. In 1926, “Virginia vs. Packard Touring Car” involved the transport of 210 gallons of corn whiskey. In another case, two brothers-in-law were convicted for transporting 48 quarts of liquor. Each was fined $50 and given a sentence of 6 months. Moreover, as dictated by law, their car was confiscated and sold. Because bootlegged liquor was hard to get, some Fredericksburgers tried alternatives. “Vine-Glo” was a concentrated grape juice product. Instructions warned “Do not place the liquid in a jug away in the cupboard for 20 days, because then it would turn to wine.” Doctors could prescribe medicinal liquor for 27 ailments including cancer, diabetes, and depression. Each doctor could write up to 100 liquor prescriptions per month. Old newspaper stories reveal some colorful lawbreakers. “Poodles” Limerick was charged for transporting liquor. Albert Grimes was fined $20 for being drunk and carrying a concealed weapon (iron knuckles). Yat Sullivan, convicted of manufacturing and selling
liquor, was fined $250 (about 2 months’ salary) and sentenced to 3 months in jail. “Dinksy” Scott was arrested three times for “unlawfully and feloniously selling ardent spirits.” Dedicated drinkers had to know where to look to find liquor in Fredericksburg. Like drug dealers today, certain men on certain corners could be relied on to provide a bottle. At a nearby country store, people asking for a “pair of size eight shoes” would receive a discreetly wrapped package. Others went straight to the top, like the historian who claimed that the best whiskey he drank was served by a local judge. Although the term “speakeasy” is not used in court records, patrons of several establishments in town were arrested for drunk and disorderly conduct. The Virginia Cafe, the Athens Hotel, and the A-1 1 Cafe were well known for their rowdy customers. The owner of the Fredericksburg Cafe was charged with allowing drinking and gambling and running a “disorderly house.” Prohibition was repealed in 1933, but selling liquor in Virginia did not become legal until 1934 when the state established the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. In the first month, the ABC granted Fredericksburg 14 licenses to sell beer and wine, but it took another 35 years before liquor was sold by the drink. On February 9, 1969, the first mixed drink in Fredericksburg—a Tom Collins—was sold at the Princess Anne Inn. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Prohibition in Virginia, the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation is hosting a Prohibition Pub Tour on Sat, Sept 10. Call 371-4 4504 to buy tickets. Barbra Anderson is a member of the HFFI Board of Directors, head of the Events & Membership Committee, and enjoys researching local history for great events like the Prohibition Pub Tour.
Art Attack Artists taking it to the streets By ryan davis
explained that this event gives the artist a reason to start a work. Not only did the creators want it to be a free event, they want those visiting downtown to feel connected to the artists. Having the performance right there on the streets give onlookers the opportunity to stop and meet the artist: "One of the ways this positively impacts the community is the audience sees the process, gets to know the artist, and make a deeper connection to the art," Harris said.
Recruits ambushing downtown Fxbg may signal a familiar past for a city rich in Civil War history, but this is not for soldiers, it is a "call to arms" for local artists to participate in a live art demonstration on the city streets. "Art Attack" is a one-day grassroots event organized by local artists Gabriel Pons and Bill Harris to encourage the exposure and celebration of Fredericksburg's vibrant art community.
By connecting with art, the artists hope their example re-ignites the community's passion to work at their own artistic endeavors, no matter what age or stage they're at: "We're looking to attract the artist who didn't initially jump in with both feet or who are on the fringes," Pons said. Harris said, "I want to encourage young people to pursue art. They can do it. Art often has the power to fill a void." This year's event wil take place 4 on Saturday, September 17 from 10-4 p.m. on the sidewalks of Caroline Street corridor between Amelia & Charlotte St (700 block thru 1000 block), and William Street between Sophia & William Street (100 block thru 300 block). It began as a hometown movement organized in 2012 to bring the studio outside for an audience to see: "This event was birthed out of a desire to get the artists out there and to meet each other. We wanted a forum for artists to support one another and our larger community," said Bill Harris. The response from artists continues to be tremendous, in the events 5th year. They band together for a common cause, which has them both participating in, and supporting their passion: "They really enjoyed being able to perform their craft. There was a real comfort level in having the freedom to do what you wanted to do without parameters or restrictions, to essentially come and go as you pleased," said Pons. "The artist making the work is the art, the performance; the goal is not necessarily the finished product," stated Pons, who
Fredericksburg has been an ideal location to support Art Attack because this community has accepted a blend numerous people groups, cultures, and ideas. This city has become a home for transplants, and in so doing, has become a place of inclusion for the artists: "You have everything here: painters, sketchartists, jewelers, sculptors & potters; many others” says Pons. “In my opinion, the quality of art here is so rich it is on par or even better that what you'd find in metropolitan hubs such as Washington D.C. or Richmond." front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
19
Companions American Exceptionalism By Thea Verdak Fredericksburg, Virginia.... He rang and left messages to come and see him. I was so busy. It is very busy when you are in rescue, downtime means sleep, especially if you are a commuter for your day job. He was so polite and insistent, a local businessman, also very busy. His connection rested merely on a call he made to our group about tiny kittens in desperate need. A response was made. I believe the kittens eyes were wiped clear of impacted infection, a tiny bit of carob syrup placed on their tongues, and their bottoms rubbed to promote a movement. They were whisked to a vet and they survived. I believe the businessman was told we would have to sort out where the mother might be if still alive. She might get mastitis or have another litter. Moving along with other calls, fosters, and vet appointments, the visit to the businessman took a while to get to. I finally stopped by. He introduced himself, chatted and was very nice indeed. He then gave me a check. I asked if he wanted to see our non-profit documents. He said he knew all he needed to know about us, but to drop off papers for his accountant when we have time. I shook his hand, put the check in my grubby back jeans pocket (we had been trapping in some woods). I went home and freshened up and put the check in my bag, then drove to the bank. I went to a worktable at the bank and started to write a deposit slip. I unfolded the check. It was for $20,000.
907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com
AhearnEstateLaw.com NOTE: Although my organization is closed, I wrote this as a recollection of the type of people I met while working for the Rappahannock Humane Society. There is a cluster of Fredericksburg business people who were so generous and never looked for accolades. In fact, I sent this piece to the gentleman, and he said he preferred remaining anonymous and that everything is for the animals. There are so many unique stories of American Exceptionalism that I encountered in my years doing humane work here. It was an astonishing experience. ~ Thea Verdak
35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings
September 2016
emotional Abuse
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
540-898-0737
Front porch fredericksburg
540/371-9890
“My boyfriend doesn’t hit me but I feel mistreated” First off, go with your gut. If you feel it, you are. This phrase “words hurt as much as a fist” from an old DSS newsletter says it succinctly. Unlike bruises on one’s body, this injury is invisible. No evidence here. Most everyone argues, yells, says things later authentically regretted. Hurtful words and actions can be accidental or are mistakes one hopes not to repeat. It is important to identify how often one gets hurt. Is it purposeful? It is problematic when harm is repeated and involves habitual disregard for another’s “heart safety.” These words “emotional abuse” cover a world of experiences in human life. With the introduction of terms “domestic violence” and “child abuse” spouse abuse” (known and unnamed among victims for centuries), there became cultural awakening. Like the story of Adam in the garden that “naming the animals” gives power over them. In the common vernacular, “controlling” is used to describe a person who insists on having one’s own way, in spite of another option preferred by the partner/friend/family member/coworker, etc. Personally, I prefer the old word “domineering”. To me “controlling” sanitizes the intent and the quality of power involved. These actions are less than respectful and, at worst, demeaning or even humiliating. Synonyms can specify kinds of domineering, maybe more, maybe less negative. Benign words include “influencing”, “leading”, “in charge of”. (Hurtful words are dwarfing), e.g. “dictating, “manipulating” the other’s views, wishes, preferences, needs.
Emancipated Patients Look to American Indian Culture for Good Health
By Barbara Deal
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate
Old Town’s Greatest Tour
20
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes
Thea Verdak writes for animals. She is the author of The Barn Teacher and I Can't Pee Straight available on Amazon. Follow her @TheaVerdak.
Fredericksburgtrolley.com
Mind Your Mind
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Examples include ugly, contemptuous name-ccalling about one’s identity, opinions, achievements, physical or emotional attributes, skin color, ethnic identification, age, weight, body characteristics, gender, relatives, etc. Sometimes, withholding affection as a punishment can be issued in response to one resisting being over ruled. Anything as punishment is a no-no. Also “getting in one’s space” or physically intimidating, striking a beloved pet, pressuring a person to get rid of cherished belongs (subtle message of inferiority) limiting contact with friends/family. Besides words, there are nuances in the delivery of words that are relevant. Voice intonations can convey scorn. Emotional abuse wears down a person’s sense of competence (thoughts of ‘I’m ok) and power (“I can handle things; I am capable”). This can manifest in many forms: sleeplessness, nightmares, crying spells, not wanting to get out of bed, or do anything at all; anxiety, panic, weight loss, feeling hopeless or wanting to die or hurt someone else. Often the shame leads the victim or withdraw, hide or and never confide in another. In a person already dealing with depression or mental illness, the reactions can be more severe.
WHAT TO DO? Exhale first. Find space away. Find Break that silence of shame. someone to hear your voice. Name your experience out loud. Hold onto your understandings. Keep a confidential journal. Bide you time with positive selftalk, encouragement from others and your self-care plan. Learn some assertiveness techniques, but first assess the risk of escalating the situation. With some, challenges can be risky. Explore whether the relationship conditions are endurable or changeable. Repeat as needed. Trust yourself. Barbara Deal MA, LCSW is a psychotherapist at Mental Health Resources, ( 540 ) 899-9826
by patrick neustatter, MD You may have wondered if you American Indian ideas - like the saw the Patawomeck Village outside the interconnectedness of communities; downtown library last month. It was not reverence for Nature, tradition, and the the local native people reclaiming their Great Spirit; that every person has a land (though they are a Stafford based responsibility for his or her proper tribe – one of 11 recognized in Virginia). behavior and health and healing is actually No this was part of the Native done by the patient. Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of We newcomers may not use some Health and Illness, exhibition that the of the chants, drumming, songs, stories, library staff persuaded the National and sacred objects quite the same as the Library of Medicine and the American Indians, but a lot of their ideas could well Library Association to bring to benefit our degenerate “white-man” Fredericksburg (against some serious society, that has so often lost touch with competition I gather). CRRL was one of habitat and spirituality. 104 libraries in the country to win the We could also learn something award.and only one other from their knowledge of library in Virginia to be plants, where stuff like ...the ideas of the exhibiting Native Voices. plantain, candlenut, indigenous peoples CRRL won the grant ginger, guava, mescal, unrefined diet; greater through the partnership mesquite are a halfway of the Patawomeck Indian respect for environment; and house between food Tribe of Virginia, Inc. and medicine.** importance of the spirit They were a full partner So that can promote our in the writing of the grant primitive village on health and healing proposal and in planning Caroline Street was and executing the exhibit helping us “immigrants” programming support. (which is what most of us are of course, This started with a glitzy despite this being used now as a term of reception - wine, fancy nibbles - where I abuse and division by some) come full rubbed elbows with real native American circle, by teaching us that “regression” to Indians like chief John Lightner, of the the ideas of the indigenous peoples Giddings, a unrefined diet; greater respect for Patawomeck, and, Yvonne Epps-G nurse/ doctoral student with the Indian environment; and importance of the spirit Health Service and member of the can promote our health and healing. Nottaway Tribe. From Epps-Geddings keyCaptain Cook, on his travels (who note address, we learned about one of the was looking for a cure for the scurvy that main health challenges of the native decimated his crew), noted the Maoris of American population today – the high rate New Zealand (who have many genetic of obesity and diabetes. similarities to American Indians) ate a diet The CDC and Indian Health of fruits, vegetables and grasses but not Service report prevalence rates of diabetes grains, dairy products, refined sugar and as high as 60 per cent among some processed oils. “None of them were groups. decrepit…(but appearing with) Their metabolic malaise is the cheerfulness and vivacity” he noted. same scourge that has challenged the US – Maori’s have also been plagued by and the industrializing world as a whole. diabetes, and attempts have been made to The replacement of “Pre-Captain Cook treat them with a “pre-Captain Cook diet.” Diet”* with junk food. We have been good at coopting The unfortunate isolation and some of their plants however - like agave poverty that pervades so many to make mescal and Tequila, or Peyote reservations often means access only to cactus buttons for their mescaline – as Convenience stores with inventory of described so graphically by Carlos sodas, energy drinks, chips, and other Castaneda in The Teachings of Don Juan snack foods and paucity of fresh fruits and (or Aldous Huxley in The Doors of vegetables reports the American Diabetic Perception if you prefer). Association. And urbanization and separation Patrick Neustatter is the Medical of a people, often just one generation Director of the Moss Free Clinic. away from living very close to the land, plays a contributory role also. NOTE” Online resource Natural Medicines, shares Old Traditions to Fix evidence-based information on Modern Problems complementary and alternative therapies There are clinics starting, even in the cities, that incorporate traditional front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
21
Companions American Exceptionalism By Thea Verdak Fredericksburg, Virginia.... He rang and left messages to come and see him. I was so busy. It is very busy when you are in rescue, downtime means sleep, especially if you are a commuter for your day job. He was so polite and insistent, a local businessman, also very busy. His connection rested merely on a call he made to our group about tiny kittens in desperate need. A response was made. I believe the kittens eyes were wiped clear of impacted infection, a tiny bit of carob syrup placed on their tongues, and their bottoms rubbed to promote a movement. They were whisked to a vet and they survived. I believe the businessman was told we would have to sort out where the mother might be if still alive. She might get mastitis or have another litter. Moving along with other calls, fosters, and vet appointments, the visit to the businessman took a while to get to. I finally stopped by. He introduced himself, chatted and was very nice indeed. He then gave me a check. I asked if he wanted to see our non-profit documents. He said he knew all he needed to know about us, but to drop off papers for his accountant when we have time. I shook his hand, put the check in my grubby back jeans pocket (we had been trapping in some woods). I went home and freshened up and put the check in my bag, then drove to the bank. I went to a worktable at the bank and started to write a deposit slip. I unfolded the check. It was for $20,000.
907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com
AhearnEstateLaw.com NOTE: Although my organization is closed, I wrote this as a recollection of the type of people I met while working for the Rappahannock Humane Society. There is a cluster of Fredericksburg business people who were so generous and never looked for accolades. In fact, I sent this piece to the gentleman, and he said he preferred remaining anonymous and that everything is for the animals. There are so many unique stories of American Exceptionalism that I encountered in my years doing humane work here. It was an astonishing experience. ~ Thea Verdak
35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings
September 2016
emotional Abuse
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
540-898-0737
Front porch fredericksburg
540/371-9890
“My boyfriend doesn’t hit me but I feel mistreated” First off, go with your gut. If you feel it, you are. This phrase “words hurt as much as a fist” from an old DSS newsletter says it succinctly. Unlike bruises on one’s body, this injury is invisible. No evidence here. Most everyone argues, yells, says things later authentically regretted. Hurtful words and actions can be accidental or are mistakes one hopes not to repeat. It is important to identify how often one gets hurt. Is it purposeful? It is problematic when harm is repeated and involves habitual disregard for another’s “heart safety.” These words “emotional abuse” cover a world of experiences in human life. With the introduction of terms “domestic violence” and “child abuse” spouse abuse” (known and unnamed among victims for centuries), there became cultural awakening. Like the story of Adam in the garden that “naming the animals” gives power over them. In the common vernacular, “controlling” is used to describe a person who insists on having one’s own way, in spite of another option preferred by the partner/friend/family member/coworker, etc. Personally, I prefer the old word “domineering”. To me “controlling” sanitizes the intent and the quality of power involved. These actions are less than respectful and, at worst, demeaning or even humiliating. Synonyms can specify kinds of domineering, maybe more, maybe less negative. Benign words include “influencing”, “leading”, “in charge of”. (Hurtful words are dwarfing), e.g. “dictating, “manipulating” the other’s views, wishes, preferences, needs.
Emancipated Patients Look to American Indian Culture for Good Health
By Barbara Deal
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate
Old Town’s Greatest Tour
20
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes
Thea Verdak writes for animals. She is the author of The Barn Teacher and I Can't Pee Straight available on Amazon. Follow her @TheaVerdak.
Fredericksburgtrolley.com
Mind Your Mind
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Examples include ugly, contemptuous name-ccalling about one’s identity, opinions, achievements, physical or emotional attributes, skin color, ethnic identification, age, weight, body characteristics, gender, relatives, etc. Sometimes, withholding affection as a punishment can be issued in response to one resisting being over ruled. Anything as punishment is a no-no. Also “getting in one’s space” or physically intimidating, striking a beloved pet, pressuring a person to get rid of cherished belongs (subtle message of inferiority) limiting contact with friends/family. Besides words, there are nuances in the delivery of words that are relevant. Voice intonations can convey scorn. Emotional abuse wears down a person’s sense of competence (thoughts of ‘I’m ok) and power (“I can handle things; I am capable”). This can manifest in many forms: sleeplessness, nightmares, crying spells, not wanting to get out of bed, or do anything at all; anxiety, panic, weight loss, feeling hopeless or wanting to die or hurt someone else. Often the shame leads the victim or withdraw, hide or and never confide in another. In a person already dealing with depression or mental illness, the reactions can be more severe.
WHAT TO DO? Exhale first. Find space away. Find Break that silence of shame. someone to hear your voice. Name your experience out loud. Hold onto your understandings. Keep a confidential journal. Bide you time with positive selftalk, encouragement from others and your self-care plan. Learn some assertiveness techniques, but first assess the risk of escalating the situation. With some, challenges can be risky. Explore whether the relationship conditions are endurable or changeable. Repeat as needed. Trust yourself. Barbara Deal MA, LCSW is a psychotherapist at Mental Health Resources, ( 540 ) 899-9826
by patrick neustatter, MD You may have wondered if you American Indian ideas - like the saw the Patawomeck Village outside the interconnectedness of communities; downtown library last month. It was not reverence for Nature, tradition, and the the local native people reclaiming their Great Spirit; that every person has a land (though they are a Stafford based responsibility for his or her proper tribe – one of 11 recognized in Virginia). behavior and health and healing is actually No this was part of the Native done by the patient. Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of We newcomers may not use some Health and Illness, exhibition that the of the chants, drumming, songs, stories, library staff persuaded the National and sacred objects quite the same as the Library of Medicine and the American Indians, but a lot of their ideas could well Library Association to bring to benefit our degenerate “white-man” Fredericksburg (against some serious society, that has so often lost touch with competition I gather). CRRL was one of habitat and spirituality. 104 libraries in the country to win the We could also learn something award.and only one other from their knowledge of library in Virginia to be plants, where stuff like ...the ideas of the exhibiting Native Voices. plantain, candlenut, indigenous peoples CRRL won the grant ginger, guava, mescal, unrefined diet; greater through the partnership mesquite are a halfway of the Patawomeck Indian respect for environment; and house between food Tribe of Virginia, Inc. and medicine.** importance of the spirit They were a full partner So that can promote our in the writing of the grant primitive village on health and healing proposal and in planning Caroline Street was and executing the exhibit helping us “immigrants” programming support. (which is what most of us are of course, This started with a glitzy despite this being used now as a term of reception - wine, fancy nibbles - where I abuse and division by some) come full rubbed elbows with real native American circle, by teaching us that “regression” to Indians like chief John Lightner, of the the ideas of the indigenous peoples Giddings, a unrefined diet; greater respect for Patawomeck, and, Yvonne Epps-G nurse/ doctoral student with the Indian environment; and importance of the spirit Health Service and member of the can promote our health and healing. Nottaway Tribe. From Epps-Geddings keyCaptain Cook, on his travels (who note address, we learned about one of the was looking for a cure for the scurvy that main health challenges of the native decimated his crew), noted the Maoris of American population today – the high rate New Zealand (who have many genetic of obesity and diabetes. similarities to American Indians) ate a diet The CDC and Indian Health of fruits, vegetables and grasses but not Service report prevalence rates of diabetes grains, dairy products, refined sugar and as high as 60 per cent among some processed oils. “None of them were groups. decrepit…(but appearing with) Their metabolic malaise is the cheerfulness and vivacity” he noted. same scourge that has challenged the US – Maori’s have also been plagued by and the industrializing world as a whole. diabetes, and attempts have been made to The replacement of “Pre-Captain Cook treat them with a “pre-Captain Cook diet.” Diet”* with junk food. We have been good at coopting The unfortunate isolation and some of their plants however - like agave poverty that pervades so many to make mescal and Tequila, or Peyote reservations often means access only to cactus buttons for their mescaline – as Convenience stores with inventory of described so graphically by Carlos sodas, energy drinks, chips, and other Castaneda in The Teachings of Don Juan snack foods and paucity of fresh fruits and (or Aldous Huxley in The Doors of vegetables reports the American Diabetic Perception if you prefer). Association. And urbanization and separation Patrick Neustatter is the Medical of a people, often just one generation Director of the Moss Free Clinic. away from living very close to the land, plays a contributory role also. NOTE” Online resource Natural Medicines, shares Old Traditions to Fix evidence-based information on Modern Problems complementary and alternative therapies There are clinics starting, even in the cities, that incorporate traditional front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
21
Senior Care
EARTHWALK WAYS
brain games
therapy institute & retreat
By Karl Karch
BY christina ferber
National Geographic Channel's hit show “Brain Games” As our population ages and more people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, the research community is conducting many studies on ways to delay and possibly cure Alzheimer’s. One recent study currently garnering attention was presented at the July 2016 Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Toronto. The results come from a large National Institute of Health funded study to assess the impact of different types of memory training on improving cognitive abilities in older adults. The three types of training were: memory, reasoning, and speed-of-processing. The study, called ACTIVE (Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly), began in 1998 with 2,832 healthy older adults with an average age of 74 who were evaluated periodically over the next ten years. Dr. Jerri Edwards, an associate professor in the School of Aging Studies at the University of South Florida, has been studying speed-of-processing for more than twenty years. She and her team analyzed the data from this study in a way that separated the types of memory training. She said: "The mistake some people make is thinking that all brain training is the same. Some brain training does work, but not all of it." This new study found that a computerized brain training game that targets speed-o ofprocessing mental quickness, decreased the risk of dementia by 48 percent compared with controls. Here’s one example of how it works. You are staring at a computer screen. Two objects flash before your eyes, one directly in front of you, and the other off to the side, barely in view. In a split second, they’re both gone. What were they? Where were they? Did you get a chance to see them both? The program gets harder with each correct answer. Speed-of-processing training has been shown in prior studies
22
September 2016
to reduce the risk of at-fault car crashes and improve older adults driving skills. But, according to Edwards: “This is the first time a cognitive training intervention has been shown to protect against cognitive impairment or dementia in a large, randomized, controlled trial.” Until now, cognitive experts have rejected evidence that brain game computer software has any effect on cognitive function. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission recently fined Lumosity, the largest and bestknown provider of online brain games, two million dollars for making unsubstantiated claims of cognitive improvement. This new study, while still preliminary, is beginning to change that thinking. Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's expert Dr. Ronald Petersen said: "At first blush, that's kind of a big deal. This may even be clinically relevant.” George Rebok of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, an expert on cognitive aging said: “I think these results are highly, highly promising.” While mental activity is critical to brain health, the Alzheimer’s Association stresses that one should not overlook the importance of combining good nutrition with mental, social and physical activities. However, as a result of this study, they updated their position to include a statement that brain training may also reduce the risk of dementia. So, why not start your speed-ofprocessing training today. If you go to this website via AARP https://aarp.brainhq.com/#, you can receive a 35% subscription discount ($9/month or $60/year). Or, you can just sign up for some free exercises. Karl Karch is a 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.
Front porch fredericksburg
Are you yearning for a deeper connection to nature and those around you? Do you feel disconnected, but aren’t sure how to reconnect? If so, Darlene Rollins has created a space to help you find your balance and develop a healthy relationship with yourself and others at Earthwalk Ways Forest Therapy Institute and Retreat. Rollins founded Earthwalk Ways in 1988 as a way to help others learn how to connect with themselves, each other, and nature. In 1994, she opened the Institute and Retreat Center in order to provide a nature sanctuary and space for retreats and classes to foster that connection in a deeper way. “Since I was a teenager, I’ve tried to find answers to life’s big questions,” says Rollins. “The Pathwork and nature were my teachers. The Pathwork is a tool of conscious spiritual and personal growth through self knowledge, self responsibility, and self acceptance.” Rollins opened the Earthwalk Ways Retreat Center in order to be a local
The Natural Path Holistic Health Center
~Nature’s Sunshine Products ~Quantitative Fluid Analysis ~VoiceBio Analysis ~ionSpa Foot Detox ~Zyto Bioscan Compass Natural Products for Health & Wellness Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath
891-6200
www.thenaturalpath.us
4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg
resource for Pathwork and nature programs. Surrounded by acres of untouched forest in Stafford County, the center offers a bed and breakfast, camping facilities, a library, meeting space, and labyrinth. A fire circle, sweat lodge, and nature path that leads to a stream and secluded canyon belonging to the City of Fredericksburg’s nature conservancy easement along the Rappahannock River are also available on the property. Rollins utilizes this area for her Pathwork and nature programs, and also allows access to her camping and bed and breakfast guests. She encourages day trips for locals as long as they call in advance. “Guests enjoy this beautiful natural area in their backyard and will ideally try a Forest Therapy session to enhance their experience of being here,” says Rollins. The Earthwalk Ways Forest Therapy Institute and Retreat offers a variety of community and individual activities for people to explore. Drum and fire circles, sweat lodges, vision quests, and Pathwork groups and sessions, along with Forest Bathing and Forest Therapy Guide Trainings are available. “Forest Bathing is a new scientifically proven way of enhancing the health benefits of time in nature through mindfulness activities. Research is showing that nature is the best medicine to deal with modern stress. It gives us a greater perspective and when we are mindful and present to it, we feel peace and belonging.” says Rollins. Rollins is also on the faculty of Sevenoaks, a retreat in Charlottesville, and will be teaching an upcoming year long class. The class, Dying into Life, is a Pathwork Mystery School that looks at the personal life experience through the lens of mortality as a way to bring greater awareness and joy to life. “I want to offer people a place, community, and practice that allows them to make soul connections with each other and nature, and live life more fully,” says Rollins. “I would also like to share the gifts of this retreat and partner with others to offer collaborative workshops.” For more information about Earthwalk Ways and the programs offered, visit their page on MeetUp (The Art of Soul Whispering), Facebook (Earthwalk Retreat) or http://earthwalkways.com/ Christina Ferber has been exploring alternative health options for FP
Renew fix your computer hunch by Joan M. Geisler Sitting at a desk all day, slouched in front of a computer, can wreak havoc on your body—especially your back and hips. It’s extremely common for that sitting habit of yours to cause you to suffer from lower back pain, neck problems, tight hips flexors, and poor posture. Taking a few minutes throughout the day to stretch and strengthen your back and hips can alleviate some of those issues, help you feel better, and improve your productivity at the office! Here are 5 moves to practice before work, after work, or even at your desk!
1. Laying Back Extention / Superman Start by lying prone (on your stomach) with your arms and legs outstretched, legs hips width distance apart, and arms shoulder width apart. Lift your left arm and your right leg up, extending your spine and keeping your gaze down at the floor; then switch to the opposite arm and leg. Once you can maintain control, begin to increase your pace and continue to lift up, using your upper back muscles, back line of your arms, hamstrings, glutes, and calf muscles. Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side.
2. Bird Dog, Opposite Arm / LegBegin on the floor on all fours with your hands directly under your shoulders and knees underneath your hips, making sure your elbows are not hyperextended. Hold strong through your core as you stretch your right arm forward and your left leg straight back. Keep your hips square by turning the leg that is lifted slightly inward. Think about maintaining a straight line from the fingertips to the toes. Switch sides slowly and with control, maintain a strong core throughout the exercise. Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side.
3. Plank Holding a simple plank on your hands or forearms is a great core strengthening and back stabilizing exercise. Place your hands or elbows directly underneath your shoulders and extend your legs directly behind you. As you breath continue to engage your core to support your spine. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Seated Chair Extensions Sit in a chair with a back with your body towards the back edge of your chair, place your feet flat on the floor, and your hands behind your head. Take a big inhale, then on your exhale begin to extend your spine over the back of the chair. Take a breath in your extension and then return to an upright position. Repeat 5 to 10 times. 5. Seated Hip (Piriformis) Stretch Sit towards the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. Pick up your right foot, and place your right ankle on your left thigh. Gently place your right hand on your right thigh and begin to hinge forward, allowing your right hip to open. Continue hinging at your hips to increase the stretch, being sure to maintain equal weight on both sides of your pelvis. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Switch legs, and repeat on the other side.
If you feel tight after a long day at work try these moves and counteract the effects that our modern day technology has on our bodies. Joan Geisler is a personal trainer and certified nutrition counselor contact her at joangeisler@gmail.com
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
23
Senior Care
EARTHWALK WAYS
brain games
therapy institute & retreat
By Karl Karch
BY christina ferber
National Geographic Channel's hit show “Brain Games” As our population ages and more people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, the research community is conducting many studies on ways to delay and possibly cure Alzheimer’s. One recent study currently garnering attention was presented at the July 2016 Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Toronto. The results come from a large National Institute of Health funded study to assess the impact of different types of memory training on improving cognitive abilities in older adults. The three types of training were: memory, reasoning, and speed-of-processing. The study, called ACTIVE (Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly), began in 1998 with 2,832 healthy older adults with an average age of 74 who were evaluated periodically over the next ten years. Dr. Jerri Edwards, an associate professor in the School of Aging Studies at the University of South Florida, has been studying speed-of-processing for more than twenty years. She and her team analyzed the data from this study in a way that separated the types of memory training. She said: "The mistake some people make is thinking that all brain training is the same. Some brain training does work, but not all of it." This new study found that a computerized brain training game that targets speed-o ofprocessing mental quickness, decreased the risk of dementia by 48 percent compared with controls. Here’s one example of how it works. You are staring at a computer screen. Two objects flash before your eyes, one directly in front of you, and the other off to the side, barely in view. In a split second, they’re both gone. What were they? Where were they? Did you get a chance to see them both? The program gets harder with each correct answer. Speed-of-processing training has been shown in prior studies
22
September 2016
to reduce the risk of at-fault car crashes and improve older adults driving skills. But, according to Edwards: “This is the first time a cognitive training intervention has been shown to protect against cognitive impairment or dementia in a large, randomized, controlled trial.” Until now, cognitive experts have rejected evidence that brain game computer software has any effect on cognitive function. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission recently fined Lumosity, the largest and bestknown provider of online brain games, two million dollars for making unsubstantiated claims of cognitive improvement. This new study, while still preliminary, is beginning to change that thinking. Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's expert Dr. Ronald Petersen said: "At first blush, that's kind of a big deal. This may even be clinically relevant.” George Rebok of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, an expert on cognitive aging said: “I think these results are highly, highly promising.” While mental activity is critical to brain health, the Alzheimer’s Association stresses that one should not overlook the importance of combining good nutrition with mental, social and physical activities. However, as a result of this study, they updated their position to include a statement that brain training may also reduce the risk of dementia. So, why not start your speed-ofprocessing training today. If you go to this website via AARP https://aarp.brainhq.com/#, you can receive a 35% subscription discount ($9/month or $60/year). Or, you can just sign up for some free exercises. Karl Karch is a 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.
Front porch fredericksburg
Are you yearning for a deeper connection to nature and those around you? Do you feel disconnected, but aren’t sure how to reconnect? If so, Darlene Rollins has created a space to help you find your balance and develop a healthy relationship with yourself and others at Earthwalk Ways Forest Therapy Institute and Retreat. Rollins founded Earthwalk Ways in 1988 as a way to help others learn how to connect with themselves, each other, and nature. In 1994, she opened the Institute and Retreat Center in order to provide a nature sanctuary and space for retreats and classes to foster that connection in a deeper way. “Since I was a teenager, I’ve tried to find answers to life’s big questions,” says Rollins. “The Pathwork and nature were my teachers. The Pathwork is a tool of conscious spiritual and personal growth through self knowledge, self responsibility, and self acceptance.” Rollins opened the Earthwalk Ways Retreat Center in order to be a local
The Natural Path Holistic Health Center
~Nature’s Sunshine Products ~Quantitative Fluid Analysis ~VoiceBio Analysis ~ionSpa Foot Detox ~Zyto Bioscan Compass Natural Products for Health & Wellness Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath
891-6200
www.thenaturalpath.us
4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg
resource for Pathwork and nature programs. Surrounded by acres of untouched forest in Stafford County, the center offers a bed and breakfast, camping facilities, a library, meeting space, and labyrinth. A fire circle, sweat lodge, and nature path that leads to a stream and secluded canyon belonging to the City of Fredericksburg’s nature conservancy easement along the Rappahannock River are also available on the property. Rollins utilizes this area for her Pathwork and nature programs, and also allows access to her camping and bed and breakfast guests. She encourages day trips for locals as long as they call in advance. “Guests enjoy this beautiful natural area in their backyard and will ideally try a Forest Therapy session to enhance their experience of being here,” says Rollins. The Earthwalk Ways Forest Therapy Institute and Retreat offers a variety of community and individual activities for people to explore. Drum and fire circles, sweat lodges, vision quests, and Pathwork groups and sessions, along with Forest Bathing and Forest Therapy Guide Trainings are available. “Forest Bathing is a new scientifically proven way of enhancing the health benefits of time in nature through mindfulness activities. Research is showing that nature is the best medicine to deal with modern stress. It gives us a greater perspective and when we are mindful and present to it, we feel peace and belonging.” says Rollins. Rollins is also on the faculty of Sevenoaks, a retreat in Charlottesville, and will be teaching an upcoming year long class. The class, Dying into Life, is a Pathwork Mystery School that looks at the personal life experience through the lens of mortality as a way to bring greater awareness and joy to life. “I want to offer people a place, community, and practice that allows them to make soul connections with each other and nature, and live life more fully,” says Rollins. “I would also like to share the gifts of this retreat and partner with others to offer collaborative workshops.” For more information about Earthwalk Ways and the programs offered, visit their page on MeetUp (The Art of Soul Whispering), Facebook (Earthwalk Retreat) or http://earthwalkways.com/ Christina Ferber has been exploring alternative health options for FP
Renew fix your computer hunch by Joan M. Geisler Sitting at a desk all day, slouched in front of a computer, can wreak havoc on your body—especially your back and hips. It’s extremely common for that sitting habit of yours to cause you to suffer from lower back pain, neck problems, tight hips flexors, and poor posture. Taking a few minutes throughout the day to stretch and strengthen your back and hips can alleviate some of those issues, help you feel better, and improve your productivity at the office! Here are 5 moves to practice before work, after work, or even at your desk!
1. Laying Back Extention / Superman Start by lying prone (on your stomach) with your arms and legs outstretched, legs hips width distance apart, and arms shoulder width apart. Lift your left arm and your right leg up, extending your spine and keeping your gaze down at the floor; then switch to the opposite arm and leg. Once you can maintain control, begin to increase your pace and continue to lift up, using your upper back muscles, back line of your arms, hamstrings, glutes, and calf muscles. Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side.
2. Bird Dog, Opposite Arm / LegBegin on the floor on all fours with your hands directly under your shoulders and knees underneath your hips, making sure your elbows are not hyperextended. Hold strong through your core as you stretch your right arm forward and your left leg straight back. Keep your hips square by turning the leg that is lifted slightly inward. Think about maintaining a straight line from the fingertips to the toes. Switch sides slowly and with control, maintain a strong core throughout the exercise. Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side.
3. Plank Holding a simple plank on your hands or forearms is a great core strengthening and back stabilizing exercise. Place your hands or elbows directly underneath your shoulders and extend your legs directly behind you. As you breath continue to engage your core to support your spine. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Seated Chair Extensions Sit in a chair with a back with your body towards the back edge of your chair, place your feet flat on the floor, and your hands behind your head. Take a big inhale, then on your exhale begin to extend your spine over the back of the chair. Take a breath in your extension and then return to an upright position. Repeat 5 to 10 times. 5. Seated Hip (Piriformis) Stretch Sit towards the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. Pick up your right foot, and place your right ankle on your left thigh. Gently place your right hand on your right thigh and begin to hinge forward, allowing your right hip to open. Continue hinging at your hips to increase the stretch, being sure to maintain equal weight on both sides of your pelvis. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Switch legs, and repeat on the other side.
If you feel tight after a long day at work try these moves and counteract the effects that our modern day technology has on our bodies. Joan Geisler is a personal trainer and certified nutrition counselor contact her at joangeisler@gmail.com
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
23
Art in the Burg
Stories
of fredericksburg
Christine Lush Rodriguez
by ryan poe
by Elizabeth Woodford
Creating wonderful works of art means always altering ones perspective on the world. In her new show opening on September 2nd at Artful Dimensions Gallery, 911 Charles Street, artist Christine Lush Rodriguez presents a fresh new look at her marvelous botanical/oceanic , fruitoid forms. You will be able to explore the artist's fabulous ceramic forms in light and shadow; in an absence of color and with total saturation of color and with unique color patterns created by smoke and fire. “I have been creating organic sculptures in clay since 1994.”, says Christine, “I decided to combine my love for ocean creatures, flowers and plants. Paying attention to the fine details of flower parts and combining them with different elements of eyeless ocean creatures. The unique sculptures that evolved, have a variety of tentacles, seeds, shells, barnacles, petals and coral polyps. “
My goal is to create organic lifeforms that get the viewer to ask how it was made and if it really exists in the world. When asked about how long Rodriguez have been an artist, her response is: “I have always been an artist one way or another. In high school, I took every art class possible. I began teaching art in 1984, but I needed to feed my Artist’s soul. So I painted on canvases, until I gained access to a kiln and clay. “ Christine born in Norfolk, Virginia and moved to Bucks County Pa. as a small child. While growing up, summers were spent in Long Beach Island, New Jersey collecting shells and admiring the sea life.. She and her husband moved to Fredericksburg in 2006. Several new jewelry lines will also
September 2016
FOR
G OOD ~ 806 C AR OLINE S T. F REDERICKSB UR G
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service
Elizabeth Woodford is an artist and a member of Artful Dimensions
24
S HOP
be presented for the very first time, to allow all customers to enjoy the creations of Christine Rush Rodriguez’s beautiful mind.
The Gallery will also be joined by a special guest, Meadowview Biological Research Station with their pitcher plants available for sale. Don't miss this very special show. Come and meet the artist, First Friday Opening September 2 from 6-9 pm. Show runs thru Oct 2.
Front porch fredericksburg
Name This House
D. D. and Kenneth Lecky are the LibertyTown Arts proprietors of Workshop. They recently moved downtown and I stopped by to visit them in their new home. D. D. described some of the projects they have planned as they discover the quirks of an older house. Though she hopes none of their experiences will compare to the one she had working retail shortly after graduating college. "I'd been working as a cashier. I had a good head on my shoulders and was a hard worker so they kept promoting me. They were opening up a new store and they tapped me to take over half of it. We're in the store for about six months and we start getting this issue in the men's bathroom. We would constantly get these backups. It would take a day and it would clear out and we'd be able to flush it. It always smelled bad in there.” “I ended up working from 7am to 11pm one day and the men's bathroom backs up again. This time it's worse than usual. It overflowed on the floor and there's water coming up through the floor drain. It was a mess. I called the people
“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
Helping homeless children and Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
who built the building. They're like, 'We'll send someone over right away.'” “In comes this guy that looked like Santa Claus on his day off, wearing this polo shirt, khaki pants, and nice clean tennis shoes with white socks. I'm telling him about the issues with the bathroom and he's like, 'It's probably something in the line. I'm going to take a look and I'll call you if there's any issue.'" "He goes into the bathroom which is close to the office. I'm in there for twenty minutes and I get this knock on the door. I open it and he's standing there, sweaty and pale and frightened. There was this distinct odor on him. He had smelled like delicious, spicy old-man cologne. Now he kind of smelled like poop. He's like, 'I need you to come look at something because if you don't, no one is ever going to believe this happened.' We go into the bathroom and laying on the floor is this four foot long compacted tube of crap and toilet paper. I stare at it and start laughing hysterically.” “He’s like, 'I flushed the toilet and noticed water was coming up through the floor drain. So I unscrewed the floor drain and flushed the toilet and this rose out of the floor and fell over onto its side.' He said, 'I think they plumbed the toilet to the floor drain and not to the actual sewer drain. Basically every time anybody's been going to the bathroom, it's been going into your floor drain.'” “I'm leaning against the door frame and I'm like, 'I'm so sorry. I can't stop laughing.' He's like, 'It's okay. Do you have any trash bags?' I'm like, 'I've got to help you.' and he's like, 'No, no, I will clean this up.' So I give him a box of contractor trash bags, a roll of paper towels, bleach, and whatever else I can find. This poor man spends the next two hours cleaning up. He has these huge bags and we have to carry them through the store because unfortunately the dumpster's at the rear of the store. We quadruple-bag them and carry them out and throw them away. He's like, 'We probably shouldn't be throwing these in the dumpster but what else are we going to do with them?'” “At the end of it, this adorable man who looked like this shiny little grandpa was covered in poop spray and sweat and he smelled horribly. I've never seen a plumber look as sad and defeated in my life. They ended up ripping up the entire bathroom and re-doing it so he was justified in his assessment of the situation.”
win downtown gift certificate Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant. Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house Identify house address Your name, address, email. Last Month’s House: 1601 Caroline St. Winner of a Gift Certificate from Heather’s Gift Shop: Valerie Jackson, Stafford, VA The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!
She stands majestically next to me, and spoke so lovingly long ago, when my first row of bricks were ready to go. She said to me, in my infancy, " have no fear, I am an old Magnolia tree, and have been here for many a year." " Your brick walls will be sturdy, your slate roof divine, like my strong branches with shade sublime." She spoke of the war and warriors of old, crossing the canal near us so bold, as her young leaves did unfold. She greeted me at my birth in 1930, and said she had been waiting to stand together, side by side for eternity.
Ryan Poe is a father, husband, son, and brother living in FXBG. He brings us "snippets" of real 'Burg folks each month Photo by Ryan Poe front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
25
Art in the Burg
Stories
of fredericksburg
Christine Lush Rodriguez
by ryan poe
by Elizabeth Woodford
Creating wonderful works of art means always altering ones perspective on the world. In her new show opening on September 2nd at Artful Dimensions Gallery, 911 Charles Street, artist Christine Lush Rodriguez presents a fresh new look at her marvelous botanical/oceanic , fruitoid forms. You will be able to explore the artist's fabulous ceramic forms in light and shadow; in an absence of color and with total saturation of color and with unique color patterns created by smoke and fire. “I have been creating organic sculptures in clay since 1994.”, says Christine, “I decided to combine my love for ocean creatures, flowers and plants. Paying attention to the fine details of flower parts and combining them with different elements of eyeless ocean creatures. The unique sculptures that evolved, have a variety of tentacles, seeds, shells, barnacles, petals and coral polyps. “
My goal is to create organic lifeforms that get the viewer to ask how it was made and if it really exists in the world. When asked about how long Rodriguez have been an artist, her response is: “I have always been an artist one way or another. In high school, I took every art class possible. I began teaching art in 1984, but I needed to feed my Artist’s soul. So I painted on canvases, until I gained access to a kiln and clay. “ Christine born in Norfolk, Virginia and moved to Bucks County Pa. as a small child. While growing up, summers were spent in Long Beach Island, New Jersey collecting shells and admiring the sea life.. She and her husband moved to Fredericksburg in 2006. Several new jewelry lines will also
September 2016
FOR
G OOD ~ 806 C AR OLINE S T. F REDERICKSB UR G
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service
Elizabeth Woodford is an artist and a member of Artful Dimensions
24
S HOP
be presented for the very first time, to allow all customers to enjoy the creations of Christine Rush Rodriguez’s beautiful mind.
The Gallery will also be joined by a special guest, Meadowview Biological Research Station with their pitcher plants available for sale. Don't miss this very special show. Come and meet the artist, First Friday Opening September 2 from 6-9 pm. Show runs thru Oct 2.
Front porch fredericksburg
Name This House
D. D. and Kenneth Lecky are the LibertyTown Arts proprietors of Workshop. They recently moved downtown and I stopped by to visit them in their new home. D. D. described some of the projects they have planned as they discover the quirks of an older house. Though she hopes none of their experiences will compare to the one she had working retail shortly after graduating college. "I'd been working as a cashier. I had a good head on my shoulders and was a hard worker so they kept promoting me. They were opening up a new store and they tapped me to take over half of it. We're in the store for about six months and we start getting this issue in the men's bathroom. We would constantly get these backups. It would take a day and it would clear out and we'd be able to flush it. It always smelled bad in there.” “I ended up working from 7am to 11pm one day and the men's bathroom backs up again. This time it's worse than usual. It overflowed on the floor and there's water coming up through the floor drain. It was a mess. I called the people
“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
Helping homeless children and Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
who built the building. They're like, 'We'll send someone over right away.'” “In comes this guy that looked like Santa Claus on his day off, wearing this polo shirt, khaki pants, and nice clean tennis shoes with white socks. I'm telling him about the issues with the bathroom and he's like, 'It's probably something in the line. I'm going to take a look and I'll call you if there's any issue.'" "He goes into the bathroom which is close to the office. I'm in there for twenty minutes and I get this knock on the door. I open it and he's standing there, sweaty and pale and frightened. There was this distinct odor on him. He had smelled like delicious, spicy old-man cologne. Now he kind of smelled like poop. He's like, 'I need you to come look at something because if you don't, no one is ever going to believe this happened.' We go into the bathroom and laying on the floor is this four foot long compacted tube of crap and toilet paper. I stare at it and start laughing hysterically.” “He’s like, 'I flushed the toilet and noticed water was coming up through the floor drain. So I unscrewed the floor drain and flushed the toilet and this rose out of the floor and fell over onto its side.' He said, 'I think they plumbed the toilet to the floor drain and not to the actual sewer drain. Basically every time anybody's been going to the bathroom, it's been going into your floor drain.'” “I'm leaning against the door frame and I'm like, 'I'm so sorry. I can't stop laughing.' He's like, 'It's okay. Do you have any trash bags?' I'm like, 'I've got to help you.' and he's like, 'No, no, I will clean this up.' So I give him a box of contractor trash bags, a roll of paper towels, bleach, and whatever else I can find. This poor man spends the next two hours cleaning up. He has these huge bags and we have to carry them through the store because unfortunately the dumpster's at the rear of the store. We quadruple-bag them and carry them out and throw them away. He's like, 'We probably shouldn't be throwing these in the dumpster but what else are we going to do with them?'” “At the end of it, this adorable man who looked like this shiny little grandpa was covered in poop spray and sweat and he smelled horribly. I've never seen a plumber look as sad and defeated in my life. They ended up ripping up the entire bathroom and re-doing it so he was justified in his assessment of the situation.”
win downtown gift certificate Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant. Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house Identify house address Your name, address, email. Last Month’s House: 1601 Caroline St. Winner of a Gift Certificate from Heather’s Gift Shop: Valerie Jackson, Stafford, VA The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!
She stands majestically next to me, and spoke so lovingly long ago, when my first row of bricks were ready to go. She said to me, in my infancy, " have no fear, I am an old Magnolia tree, and have been here for many a year." " Your brick walls will be sturdy, your slate roof divine, like my strong branches with shade sublime." She spoke of the war and warriors of old, crossing the canal near us so bold, as her young leaves did unfold. She greeted me at my birth in 1930, and said she had been waiting to stand together, side by side for eternity.
Ryan Poe is a father, husband, son, and brother living in FXBG. He brings us "snippets" of real 'Burg folks each month Photo by Ryan Poe front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
25
World Peace Mural Tour Renda Writer makes stop @ fxbg
FXBG’ERS ben radman
By emily hollinsworth
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com 26
September 2016
In alternating blue, light blue and green spray paint, Renda Writer, an artist based in Miami, wrote “World Peace” across the left side wall of Art Mart, an art gallery on 1405 Princess Anne St. The project began at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 7, a day that already promised to be sunny but humid. Writer gently eased between meeting and talking with community residents and spreading the message, “World Peace,” in large, even print across the wall. Writer’s stop in Fredericksburg was one of several cities he has already visited on his tour. Writer’s aim for the tour, “World called Peace Mural Tour,” is to create at least five murals on the theme of world peace in five major cities, i n c l u d i n g D e t r o i t , Philadelphia, B o s t o n , Washington D.C. and New York. Writer has made additional stops at nearby cities to create murals. FXBG was one of them. On a table inside of the gallery, Writer had placed a collection of miniature canvases with messages on them for sale, reading: “Life is the Adventure You Want it to Be,” “Your Comfort Zone Will Kill You,” “Love is a Risk, Do it Anyway.” “My art is really just reminders,” Writer said. “They remind you of things you already know.” Though the message “World Peace” seemed in sync with his other messages, why “World Peace,” specifically? “It just sort of came to me,” Writer said. “It was an extension of previous thoughts.” Writer said that “World Peace” is also the name of a song by hip hop One, who was in a pioneer and artist KRS-O group at the time called “Boogie Down Productions.” It was one of Writer’s favorite songs growing up, and into adulthood, the song had inspired him to reconsider what world peace meant. A friend of Writer’s and Fredericksburg native, Saghar Kasraie, said she had seen for herself art spreading a powerful message. Kasraie had been a spokesperson for a student organization in Iran, and during this time had gone to Israel and had seen hate graffiti on a wall. She later
Front porch fredericksburg
by georgia Lee Strentz
saw artists covering the message with something positive, lovely. The incident stuck with Kasraie, who was later inspired to help Writer instill a similar, positive message. “It’s a vision,” Kasraie said about Writer’s mural tour. “It’s not about him, it’s about the message.” Nina Angelini, owner of Art Mart, said Kasraie and Fredericksburg resident Sue Henderson had initially connected Writer with the gallery. Angelini immediately accepted the request to have the gallery wall painted. The gallery has hosted international artists and pieces that have
focused on issues of social justice. “We seem to have the same ideas. One space can do what we need it to do,” Angelini said about Writer’s mural tour. Mentioning recent national and international tragedy and uncertainty, Angelini believes the message is needed. “What better way to bring light to dark?” Writer also mentioned recent, turbulent events, and feels urged to continue creating reminders. “The world is getting crazier,” Writer said. “and [world peace] is a message that needs to be out.” Kasraie believes that community and art can set the tone for change. “The only way to change the narrative is to come together,” Kasraie said. “You and me.” Writer is set to create a mural in New York beginning September 21, on International Day of Peace. To learn more, visit worldpeacemuraltour.com, Renda Writer’s Facebook Page, and Art Mart’s Facebook page. Emily Hollingsworth is a recent graduate of the University of Mary Washington and profiles artists, photographers and members of the FXBG community.
Fredericksburg, you are such a wonderful "Homeplace." Month after month, I continue to meet incredible citizens who are willing to sacrifice so many hours of their precious personal time, helping "Mother Earth" and its inhabitants here in our "Burg." It seems unreal that so many compassionate people decided to settle here and become "Fredericksburgers." “The truth of a country is how well it treats its least advantaged." Ben Radman, our volunteer for this month shared his philosophy with me. This is what fuels his happy, busy life as a volunteer. He is the latest of many wonderful, caring citizens highlighted here, who we are fortunate to get to know, along with the multitude of charities and organizations our volunteers have chosen to help. It was hard to get Ben to talk about himself, as he stated he wanted to talk about a really important organization that he feels should be a household word in Fredericksburg, Friends of The Rappahannock (FOR) When I visited the FOR office at 3219 Fall Hill Ave.,I talked to Woodie Walker, who is a community conservationist and to Nick Cadwallander, who handles promotion and public relations for FOR. Nick reminded me that Friends of the Rappahannock, is having their annual "Riverfest" on September 17th at Farley Vale Farm on the Rappahannock River, out rte 3.East. It is a gorgeous farm venue, a fabulous evening, music, food, river beauty, an auction, with all proceeds going to "FOR." I go each year with my family, guaranteed you will love the experience to benefit a wonderful organization. For information call 540-373-3448. Friends of the Rappahannock, promotes Advocacy, to develop solutions for the river pollution problems; promotes Restoration, to restore degraded areas, and bring the community together through grassroots action; Education,educate children children, as more than 6,000 children attend their education programs annually. Ben is very strong in his dedication to our Rappahannock River, which is 180 miles long,plus its watershed area. Part of the mission of FOR is to be the voice of the river. The river has no way to tell the people within the watershed who live, work and play along
its shores, that it may be ailing, or that it may be in need of help. Ben counts himself among the many friends of this beautiful river, as a voice for it. Ben's activities to support FOR include planting thousands of trees upriver on farms as a buffer, river cleanup along its shores, at the outdoor center at FOR headquarters, river restoration, monitoring water quality, supporting the restoration and installing of rain gardens at FOR headquarters, help with the education programs at the center for educating youth, he is on the Board for the Master Naturalist program, and "wherever and whenever I am needed," Ben says. Ben retired from a career in engineering, has four sons, and he and his wife live in the woods in house he just built himself. He is a very busy guy, but seems to thrive on his activism. Thanks Ben,and all you volunteers who make Friends of the Rappahannock such a powerful organization who help, as Ben says,"as a voice for the river." An extra thanks to Bill Micks, who was a pioneer voice for the river, when few people really heard her cries for help. Don't forget to get RIVERFEST tickets. Sept.17th at Farley Vale Farm on the Rappahannock River, Call-F Friends of the Rappahannock 540-3 373-3 3448 Georgia enjoys riding her 3 wheeled bike on the many bike and walking trails by the river
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
27
World Peace Mural Tour Renda Writer makes stop @ fxbg
FXBG’ERS ben radman
By emily hollinsworth
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com 26
September 2016
In alternating blue, light blue and green spray paint, Renda Writer, an artist based in Miami, wrote “World Peace” across the left side wall of Art Mart, an art gallery on 1405 Princess Anne St. The project began at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 7, a day that already promised to be sunny but humid. Writer gently eased between meeting and talking with community residents and spreading the message, “World Peace,” in large, even print across the wall. Writer’s stop in Fredericksburg was one of several cities he has already visited on his tour. Writer’s aim for the tour, “World called Peace Mural Tour,” is to create at least five murals on the theme of world peace in five major cities, i n c l u d i n g D e t r o i t , Philadelphia, B o s t o n , Washington D.C. and New York. Writer has made additional stops at nearby cities to create murals. FXBG was one of them. On a table inside of the gallery, Writer had placed a collection of miniature canvases with messages on them for sale, reading: “Life is the Adventure You Want it to Be,” “Your Comfort Zone Will Kill You,” “Love is a Risk, Do it Anyway.” “My art is really just reminders,” Writer said. “They remind you of things you already know.” Though the message “World Peace” seemed in sync with his other messages, why “World Peace,” specifically? “It just sort of came to me,” Writer said. “It was an extension of previous thoughts.” Writer said that “World Peace” is also the name of a song by hip hop One, who was in a pioneer and artist KRS-O group at the time called “Boogie Down Productions.” It was one of Writer’s favorite songs growing up, and into adulthood, the song had inspired him to reconsider what world peace meant. A friend of Writer’s and Fredericksburg native, Saghar Kasraie, said she had seen for herself art spreading a powerful message. Kasraie had been a spokesperson for a student organization in Iran, and during this time had gone to Israel and had seen hate graffiti on a wall. She later
Front porch fredericksburg
by georgia Lee Strentz
saw artists covering the message with something positive, lovely. The incident stuck with Kasraie, who was later inspired to help Writer instill a similar, positive message. “It’s a vision,” Kasraie said about Writer’s mural tour. “It’s not about him, it’s about the message.” Nina Angelini, owner of Art Mart, said Kasraie and Fredericksburg resident Sue Henderson had initially connected Writer with the gallery. Angelini immediately accepted the request to have the gallery wall painted. The gallery has hosted international artists and pieces that have
focused on issues of social justice. “We seem to have the same ideas. One space can do what we need it to do,” Angelini said about Writer’s mural tour. Mentioning recent national and international tragedy and uncertainty, Angelini believes the message is needed. “What better way to bring light to dark?” Writer also mentioned recent, turbulent events, and feels urged to continue creating reminders. “The world is getting crazier,” Writer said. “and [world peace] is a message that needs to be out.” Kasraie believes that community and art can set the tone for change. “The only way to change the narrative is to come together,” Kasraie said. “You and me.” Writer is set to create a mural in New York beginning September 21, on International Day of Peace. To learn more, visit worldpeacemuraltour.com, Renda Writer’s Facebook Page, and Art Mart’s Facebook page. Emily Hollingsworth is a recent graduate of the University of Mary Washington and profiles artists, photographers and members of the FXBG community.
Fredericksburg, you are such a wonderful "Homeplace." Month after month, I continue to meet incredible citizens who are willing to sacrifice so many hours of their precious personal time, helping "Mother Earth" and its inhabitants here in our "Burg." It seems unreal that so many compassionate people decided to settle here and become "Fredericksburgers." “The truth of a country is how well it treats its least advantaged." Ben Radman, our volunteer for this month shared his philosophy with me. This is what fuels his happy, busy life as a volunteer. He is the latest of many wonderful, caring citizens highlighted here, who we are fortunate to get to know, along with the multitude of charities and organizations our volunteers have chosen to help. It was hard to get Ben to talk about himself, as he stated he wanted to talk about a really important organization that he feels should be a household word in Fredericksburg, Friends of The Rappahannock (FOR) When I visited the FOR office at 3219 Fall Hill Ave.,I talked to Woodie Walker, who is a community conservationist and to Nick Cadwallander, who handles promotion and public relations for FOR. Nick reminded me that Friends of the Rappahannock, is having their annual "Riverfest" on September 17th at Farley Vale Farm on the Rappahannock River, out rte 3.East. It is a gorgeous farm venue, a fabulous evening, music, food, river beauty, an auction, with all proceeds going to "FOR." I go each year with my family, guaranteed you will love the experience to benefit a wonderful organization. For information call 540-373-3448. Friends of the Rappahannock, promotes Advocacy, to develop solutions for the river pollution problems; promotes Restoration, to restore degraded areas, and bring the community together through grassroots action; Education,educate children children, as more than 6,000 children attend their education programs annually. Ben is very strong in his dedication to our Rappahannock River, which is 180 miles long,plus its watershed area. Part of the mission of FOR is to be the voice of the river. The river has no way to tell the people within the watershed who live, work and play along
its shores, that it may be ailing, or that it may be in need of help. Ben counts himself among the many friends of this beautiful river, as a voice for it. Ben's activities to support FOR include planting thousands of trees upriver on farms as a buffer, river cleanup along its shores, at the outdoor center at FOR headquarters, river restoration, monitoring water quality, supporting the restoration and installing of rain gardens at FOR headquarters, help with the education programs at the center for educating youth, he is on the Board for the Master Naturalist program, and "wherever and whenever I am needed," Ben says. Ben retired from a career in engineering, has four sons, and he and his wife live in the woods in house he just built himself. He is a very busy guy, but seems to thrive on his activism. Thanks Ben,and all you volunteers who make Friends of the Rappahannock such a powerful organization who help, as Ben says,"as a voice for the river." An extra thanks to Bill Micks, who was a pioneer voice for the river, when few people really heard her cries for help. Don't forget to get RIVERFEST tickets. Sept.17th at Farley Vale Farm on the Rappahannock River, Call-F Friends of the Rappahannock 540-3 373-3 3448 Georgia enjoys riding her 3 wheeled bike on the many bike and walking trails by the river
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
27
Homeschooling 101
THE POETRY MAN - By Frank Fratoe
Our ‘74 Mustang
the social side of homeschooling By meg sneed Ask any homeschooling parent what the number one question they get is, and most will tell you “But what about socialization?” There is a common misperception that we homeschoolers are all locked up in our own homes with the shades drawn and a “Do Not Disturb” sign permanently affixed to the front door. And while there are certainly days that may be, metaphorically speaking, the case, I’ve found that the biggest challenge for us is actually how to limit our socializing – there are just too many different ways to get our kids out and engaging with the world to ever exhaust them all! Homeschool specific groups are probably the easiest place to start. Co-Ops, are a great place to find other homeschooled friends, share academic interests, and build a support group for all your homeschooling questions. These groups usually meet during the weekdays, and have activities that range from classes to fieldtrips to simply hanging out. Groups Fredericksburg Area such as Homeschoolers Association (FAHA), which organize on Facebook and Meetup, are geared towards elementary school kids, but with an eye to the present and future high schoolers they try to have events each month aimed at varying ages and interests. REACH, a larger homeschooling group, also covers the full range of ages but with more activities for older kids. State-wide organizations can also be a great place to find friends. Both the Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers (VA Homeschoolers) and the Homeschool Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) have yearly conventions with activities for homeschoolers of all ages, as well as coordinated field trips throughout the year. Additionally, many museums and vacation locations throughout Virginia offer “homeschool days.” These are specific dates, usually once or twice a year, during which they offer special discounts and programming specifically for homeschoolers. At the end of this month,
the State Fair of Virginia has reserved September 23rd as it’s homeschool day, with discounted tickets offered through HEAV. The Virginia Living Museum, the Science Museum of Virginia, the International Spy Museum, National Building Museum, Great Wolf Lodge, and Colonial Williamsburg are just a few of the locations that have homeschool days annually. You can also find an informal listing at www.virginiafieldtrips.com (click on the “home educators” link in the menu). If you’re looking to stay closer to home the YMCA also offers some homeschool specific activities which will get your kids socialized and exercised, all in one! The King George, Massad (Falmouth), and Ron Rosner (Spotsylvania) branches all have Homeschool Fitness programs from September-May and allow students ages 4 through high school to earn the Presidential Physical Fitness Awards their peers in public schools earn during gym class. Massad Family YMCA also offers weekly homeschool swim classes for ages 5-15. Pataiyo in Downtown Fredericksburg also hosts a weekly class for homeschoolers, and Dragonfly Yoga Studios has also hosted a yoga series specifically for homeschoolers. City and county sports programs, as well as scouting programs, are also always open to homeschool residents, but there are also homeschool-specific leagues for older students. Fredericksburg Victory Athletics Association offers volleyball and basketball for high school students; the Central Virginia Homeschool Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization that provides opportunities for middle and high school student athletes in competitive leagues. The Northern Virginia Homeschool Athletic Association, based in Manassas, also provides a football team, volleyball, and cheerleading opportunities for high school students – and an annual prom! Majest
Martial Arts both hold homeschool Taekwondo classes in the early afternoons. For those homeschoolers that dance to a different beat, there is the Fredericksburg Area Young Musicians (FAYM), which is currently open for fall registration for elementary through high school students. If your child is more into art, many of the studios in town (of which we are blessed with many!) are open to working with you to create individual or group opportunities for art classes of all types. As you can see, it would be incredibly easy to fill our entire week with social events. But it’s also wonderful to keep in mind that one of the benefits of homeschooling is my children’s opportunity to interact with the world at large. In participating in my daily routines and interactions, they have learned by observation and participation social skills that allow them to interact with all ages, not just their peers. After all, regardless of how we choose to educate our children, be it at public school, private school, or at home, the end goal is the same for us all – to raise happy, healthy children who can become responsible, contributing members in our society.
During drives together acres of country flew by as a cockpit dashboard bared the Spinners who my wife so loved to hear on our eight-track tape filling the air enroute. Sound accompanied speed buzzing roadside farms along a valley of tempo while clouds became dark and the sky made us slow before drops fell soon drumming the windshield. Then downpours blew off till glass cleared again as the Mustang quickened when we drove past rigs and tires beat pavement churning their own dance to keep us way far ahead. Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 7 years.
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties
empowerhouseva.org M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
28
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684 front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
29
Homeschooling 101
THE POETRY MAN - By Frank Fratoe
Our ‘74 Mustang
the social side of homeschooling By meg sneed Ask any homeschooling parent what the number one question they get is, and most will tell you “But what about socialization?” There is a common misperception that we homeschoolers are all locked up in our own homes with the shades drawn and a “Do Not Disturb” sign permanently affixed to the front door. And while there are certainly days that may be, metaphorically speaking, the case, I’ve found that the biggest challenge for us is actually how to limit our socializing – there are just too many different ways to get our kids out and engaging with the world to ever exhaust them all! Homeschool specific groups are probably the easiest place to start. Co-Ops, are a great place to find other homeschooled friends, share academic interests, and build a support group for all your homeschooling questions. These groups usually meet during the weekdays, and have activities that range from classes to fieldtrips to simply hanging out. Groups Fredericksburg Area such as Homeschoolers Association (FAHA), which organize on Facebook and Meetup, are geared towards elementary school kids, but with an eye to the present and future high schoolers they try to have events each month aimed at varying ages and interests. REACH, a larger homeschooling group, also covers the full range of ages but with more activities for older kids. State-wide organizations can also be a great place to find friends. Both the Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers (VA Homeschoolers) and the Homeschool Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) have yearly conventions with activities for homeschoolers of all ages, as well as coordinated field trips throughout the year. Additionally, many museums and vacation locations throughout Virginia offer “homeschool days.” These are specific dates, usually once or twice a year, during which they offer special discounts and programming specifically for homeschoolers. At the end of this month,
the State Fair of Virginia has reserved September 23rd as it’s homeschool day, with discounted tickets offered through HEAV. The Virginia Living Museum, the Science Museum of Virginia, the International Spy Museum, National Building Museum, Great Wolf Lodge, and Colonial Williamsburg are just a few of the locations that have homeschool days annually. You can also find an informal listing at www.virginiafieldtrips.com (click on the “home educators” link in the menu). If you’re looking to stay closer to home the YMCA also offers some homeschool specific activities which will get your kids socialized and exercised, all in one! The King George, Massad (Falmouth), and Ron Rosner (Spotsylvania) branches all have Homeschool Fitness programs from September-May and allow students ages 4 through high school to earn the Presidential Physical Fitness Awards their peers in public schools earn during gym class. Massad Family YMCA also offers weekly homeschool swim classes for ages 5-15. Pataiyo in Downtown Fredericksburg also hosts a weekly class for homeschoolers, and Dragonfly Yoga Studios has also hosted a yoga series specifically for homeschoolers. City and county sports programs, as well as scouting programs, are also always open to homeschool residents, but there are also homeschool-specific leagues for older students. Fredericksburg Victory Athletics Association offers volleyball and basketball for high school students; the Central Virginia Homeschool Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization that provides opportunities for middle and high school student athletes in competitive leagues. The Northern Virginia Homeschool Athletic Association, based in Manassas, also provides a football team, volleyball, and cheerleading opportunities for high school students – and an annual prom! Majest
Martial Arts both hold homeschool Taekwondo classes in the early afternoons. For those homeschoolers that dance to a different beat, there is the Fredericksburg Area Young Musicians (FAYM), which is currently open for fall registration for elementary through high school students. If your child is more into art, many of the studios in town (of which we are blessed with many!) are open to working with you to create individual or group opportunities for art classes of all types. As you can see, it would be incredibly easy to fill our entire week with social events. But it’s also wonderful to keep in mind that one of the benefits of homeschooling is my children’s opportunity to interact with the world at large. In participating in my daily routines and interactions, they have learned by observation and participation social skills that allow them to interact with all ages, not just their peers. After all, regardless of how we choose to educate our children, be it at public school, private school, or at home, the end goal is the same for us all – to raise happy, healthy children who can become responsible, contributing members in our society.
During drives together acres of country flew by as a cockpit dashboard bared the Spinners who my wife so loved to hear on our eight-track tape filling the air enroute. Sound accompanied speed buzzing roadside farms along a valley of tempo while clouds became dark and the sky made us slow before drops fell soon drumming the windshield. Then downpours blew off till glass cleared again as the Mustang quickened when we drove past rigs and tires beat pavement churning their own dance to keep us way far ahead. Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 7 years.
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties
empowerhouseva.org M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
28
September 2016
Front porch fredericksburg
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684 front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
29
Palozza fxbg’s italian sister city group is throwing a pizza party
Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community
By Casey Alan Shaw
Spencer-D Devon Brewing will be on hand to offer their beers, and the FredericksburgEste Association will offer Italian varieties of wine. Beer and wine options will be offered for $5 a serving. In addition, non-alcoholic selections and water will also be available for purchase. Fredericksburg’s own rock ‘n roll band, Acoustic Onion, will be on hand performing good ol’ American classics, and dancing is encouraged. The Beatles, Grand Funk, CCR, Springsteen, Stones…well, you get the idea. Market Square will be decked out in umbrella patio tables, but folks are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs for this rollicking evening. Este, Italy residents Massimo Giordano, Elisa Sette, In addition, area Mariateresa Bertolettii, and Marcello Pistorio celebrity food judges will also gather under one of the Italian flags that flew sample slices of the pizza downtown in honor of the Proclamation signing in makers’ best specialty pizza. April 2016, confirming the Sister City relationship At evening’s end, they too will between Este, Italy, and Fredericksburg. The weigh in to determine the Fredericksburg-E Este Association has purchased 120 champion of the Palooza Italian flags and poles for the City, to be specialty slice. mounted during Italian-rrelated events It’s not complicated; it’s just fun—the perfect blend of The Fredericksburg-Este and American down-home Association and B101.5 will present the Italian battle of the pizzas, and everyone is favorites. Admission to the event is $1 per person. Pizza by the slice is also $1. invited. The fundraiser is sponsored by The Pizza Palooza, set for the Fredericksburg-Este Association to Saturday, September 17, from 5-9 9 PM in Market Square, behind the old Town Hall, support its cultural programming and will offer a selection of pizzas by the slice, other events. A membership-based nonprofit, the sister city group is twinned and YOU get to vote for your favorite! Pizza makers from around the with Este, Italy, and was founded in 2015. More information about the area will be on hand to offer slices of their Fredericksburg-Este Association and about pizza, so that folks can taste many varieties. Each attendee will be given one the Pizza Palooza is available at fred-e este.org, or by email at token to vote for the best pizza slice. At the evening’s conclusion, the tokens will fredeste2015@gmail.com.
SKETCH #22: 307 Amelia Street “Smithsonia” This is the second home in a series of drawings I did recently of historic homes that are currently for sale in Fredericksburg. We are so lucky. How many towns could keep an artist busy drawing homes this historic that people actually still live in? Last month, I sketched The Charles Dick House, the oldest residence in town. This month, I turn my pen and watercolors to “Smithsonia,” a large home on Amelia Street that has served through the years as a girls orphanage, civil war hospital and as a dorm for an early college in the area. It's been a private home since early in the 20th century and the remodeled interiors have been featured in Virginia Living magazine. One of these days, I would love to live in a home that has it’s own name. How cool would that be? Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and Realtor. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg and at www.caseyshaw.com.
Kathryn Willis happily advocates for the region's arts and culture.
373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org
Frontporchfredericksburg.com FB@FrontPorch Magazine September 2016
a picture really is worth a thousand words By Jo Loving
“. . . There was never a girl born who ever grew older than eighteen in her heart . . . no matter what the merciless hours have done to her.” ~Robert Heinlein
606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg
30
kingdom inspiration Studio
From My Porch
By Dawn Whitmore
by kathyrn willis
be tallied to determine the People’s Choice for Best Palooza Pizza.
Tonya Butcher
Front porch fredericksburg
Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
One of the amazing things about Fredericksburg is the Arts Community. Tonya Butcher has participated, as an artist, in this vibrant community. Yet, in May of 2016, she took her involvement one step further and opened Kingdom Inspiration Studio on Sophia Street. Butcher, a self-taught artist, who found peace in art has shown her work at various venues to include: Brush Strokes in Fredericksburg, Art a la Carte in Occoquan, and the Virginia Equine Association Butcher acknowledges, “Fredericksburg has a very strong art community that flourishes with many different types of art.” Then why open another studio? Kingdom Inspiration’s About Page explains their why, along with their uniqueness as an art studio, “We are a place to come together to create a culture of learning, exploration and creating in the presence of God.” This is not to say there are no other galleries, which have a culture of
learning and exploration. However, Butcher’s vision for Kingdom Inspiration Studio and the Fredericksburg-area of encouraging kingdom creativity is new. Butcher states, “I believe that God moves in our hearts and lives through many artistic expressions, like art, music, dance, drama and more…God can use our creative expressions to bring healing and relationship to so many.” The aspect of kingdom creativity seems to have resonated with area artists. Since opening in May, Kingdom Inspiration has 24 artists who have made Kingdom Inspiration home to their artwork. Butcher says there is room for approximately 12 more artists. Each artist at Kingdom Inspiration is encouraged to maintain his or her own display space with the enjoyment of no gallery sitting. The studio will be offering artistic workshops taught by Butcher and other artist. Workshop topics include hand painted silk, photography, pastel painting, and song writing, along with bible studies and prayer groups. A list of all upcoming workshops can be found on the Kingdom Inspiration website at www.kingdominspiration.com/events. Want to know more about Kingdom Inspiration and/or kingdom creativity? Drop by 1008 Sophia Street and see Tonya. She is there TuesdaySaturday from 12pm-5pm. Dawn Whitmore is a landscape photographer and writer who lives in Spotsylvania. Learn more by visiting her own FB: facebook.com/dewphotographypage or her website at www.dewphotographyva.com photos by Dawn Whitmore
There is a picture of my maternal grandmother that draws me in every time I chance upon it in my family photos. She is young, between 18 and 20, so the photo was taken between 1938 and 1940. She exudes from this picture the health, vibrancy, and beauty of youth. She is happy, smiling, and her eyes are twinkling. She has a jaunty hat. It looks like a photo booth photo, because it is tiny, like those taken in a photo booth. It may also have been a passport photo. Again, I don’t know. What I do know is that this is my grandmother, before she became a mother, before she was married, before life got hold of her. Grama was a pianist and had a beautiful singing voice. So beautiful, that she had received a scholarship to attend Juilliard for both voice and piano. I believe this photo to have been taken around the time that she had Juilliard in her sights. She looks like a girl about to embark upon an adventure, with the carefree nature and joy of a young woman. She had no idea what would lie ahead. She married my grandfather a few years after this photo, and they moved from upstate New York to Florida. My mother was three years old. Two years later, Buddie was born, and was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, and not expected to live to his second birthday. We found newspaper clippings after my grandmother’s death. Articles in the local newspaper asked people to help with the expenses for “little Buddie” to go to New Orleans for treatment. The community rallied, and he was treated there. My grandmother then became pregnant with her third child. When Margaret was born, she, too, had Cystic Fibrosis. For the next few years, my grandmother tended to my mother and to two sick and dying babies. My grandparents’ marriage did not survive the death of their two youngest children. So my grandmother raised my mother by herself, with limited involvement from my grandfather, who
moved to south Florida and remarried. The beauty of my grandmother is this; she had an indomitable spirit. My personal experience of her was as a beloved grandchild, and she sang to me, and taught me to love music. We listened to the great classical composers together, and the old standards, and any other music she found interesting. We read, we laughed, and she was always smiling, as in the picture. The only sign of the sorrows she had borne emerged when I had my own children. Grama always licked their skin (babies with cystic fibrosis have unusually salty skin). When she thought she tasted salt on my daughter, April, she could not have peace until tested her for CF. We also tested my twins, who were born three and a half years later. None of my children tested positive, which was a great relief to her. Other than that one thing, my grandmother always smiled as she was in the photo of the young girl in the hat. She didn’t let her past sorrows drown her future joy. So when I see this picture and pictures from when I knew her, I see the same face, the same happy, twinkling eyes, the same lovely young woman as always. The quote from Robert Heinlein at the beginning of this piece said it all, “. . . There was never a girl born who ever grew older than eighteen in her heart . . . no matter what the merciless hours have done to her.” Jo Loving is sitting on her porch this evening, thinking about her own life, and whether her grandchildren will happen upon a picture of a young Jo at 18, carefree, healthy, happy, and glowing, and still see that girl in her as she is today. She certainly hopes so.
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
31
Palozza fxbg’s italian sister city group is throwing a pizza party
Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community
By Casey Alan Shaw
Spencer-D Devon Brewing will be on hand to offer their beers, and the FredericksburgEste Association will offer Italian varieties of wine. Beer and wine options will be offered for $5 a serving. In addition, non-alcoholic selections and water will also be available for purchase. Fredericksburg’s own rock ‘n roll band, Acoustic Onion, will be on hand performing good ol’ American classics, and dancing is encouraged. The Beatles, Grand Funk, CCR, Springsteen, Stones…well, you get the idea. Market Square will be decked out in umbrella patio tables, but folks are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs for this rollicking evening. Este, Italy residents Massimo Giordano, Elisa Sette, In addition, area Mariateresa Bertolettii, and Marcello Pistorio celebrity food judges will also gather under one of the Italian flags that flew sample slices of the pizza downtown in honor of the Proclamation signing in makers’ best specialty pizza. April 2016, confirming the Sister City relationship At evening’s end, they too will between Este, Italy, and Fredericksburg. The weigh in to determine the Fredericksburg-E Este Association has purchased 120 champion of the Palooza Italian flags and poles for the City, to be specialty slice. mounted during Italian-rrelated events It’s not complicated; it’s just fun—the perfect blend of The Fredericksburg-Este and American down-home Association and B101.5 will present the Italian battle of the pizzas, and everyone is favorites. Admission to the event is $1 per person. Pizza by the slice is also $1. invited. The fundraiser is sponsored by The Pizza Palooza, set for the Fredericksburg-Este Association to Saturday, September 17, from 5-9 9 PM in Market Square, behind the old Town Hall, support its cultural programming and will offer a selection of pizzas by the slice, other events. A membership-based nonprofit, the sister city group is twinned and YOU get to vote for your favorite! Pizza makers from around the with Este, Italy, and was founded in 2015. More information about the area will be on hand to offer slices of their Fredericksburg-Este Association and about pizza, so that folks can taste many varieties. Each attendee will be given one the Pizza Palooza is available at fred-e este.org, or by email at token to vote for the best pizza slice. At the evening’s conclusion, the tokens will fredeste2015@gmail.com.
SKETCH #22: 307 Amelia Street “Smithsonia” This is the second home in a series of drawings I did recently of historic homes that are currently for sale in Fredericksburg. We are so lucky. How many towns could keep an artist busy drawing homes this historic that people actually still live in? Last month, I sketched The Charles Dick House, the oldest residence in town. This month, I turn my pen and watercolors to “Smithsonia,” a large home on Amelia Street that has served through the years as a girls orphanage, civil war hospital and as a dorm for an early college in the area. It's been a private home since early in the 20th century and the remodeled interiors have been featured in Virginia Living magazine. One of these days, I would love to live in a home that has it’s own name. How cool would that be? Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and Realtor. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg and at www.caseyshaw.com.
Kathryn Willis happily advocates for the region's arts and culture.
373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org
Frontporchfredericksburg.com FB@FrontPorch Magazine September 2016
a picture really is worth a thousand words By Jo Loving
“. . . There was never a girl born who ever grew older than eighteen in her heart . . . no matter what the merciless hours have done to her.” ~Robert Heinlein
606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg
30
kingdom inspiration Studio
From My Porch
By Dawn Whitmore
by kathyrn willis
be tallied to determine the People’s Choice for Best Palooza Pizza.
Tonya Butcher
Front porch fredericksburg
Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
One of the amazing things about Fredericksburg is the Arts Community. Tonya Butcher has participated, as an artist, in this vibrant community. Yet, in May of 2016, she took her involvement one step further and opened Kingdom Inspiration Studio on Sophia Street. Butcher, a self-taught artist, who found peace in art has shown her work at various venues to include: Brush Strokes in Fredericksburg, Art a la Carte in Occoquan, and the Virginia Equine Association Butcher acknowledges, “Fredericksburg has a very strong art community that flourishes with many different types of art.” Then why open another studio? Kingdom Inspiration’s About Page explains their why, along with their uniqueness as an art studio, “We are a place to come together to create a culture of learning, exploration and creating in the presence of God.” This is not to say there are no other galleries, which have a culture of
learning and exploration. However, Butcher’s vision for Kingdom Inspiration Studio and the Fredericksburg-area of encouraging kingdom creativity is new. Butcher states, “I believe that God moves in our hearts and lives through many artistic expressions, like art, music, dance, drama and more…God can use our creative expressions to bring healing and relationship to so many.” The aspect of kingdom creativity seems to have resonated with area artists. Since opening in May, Kingdom Inspiration has 24 artists who have made Kingdom Inspiration home to their artwork. Butcher says there is room for approximately 12 more artists. Each artist at Kingdom Inspiration is encouraged to maintain his or her own display space with the enjoyment of no gallery sitting. The studio will be offering artistic workshops taught by Butcher and other artist. Workshop topics include hand painted silk, photography, pastel painting, and song writing, along with bible studies and prayer groups. A list of all upcoming workshops can be found on the Kingdom Inspiration website at www.kingdominspiration.com/events. Want to know more about Kingdom Inspiration and/or kingdom creativity? Drop by 1008 Sophia Street and see Tonya. She is there TuesdaySaturday from 12pm-5pm. Dawn Whitmore is a landscape photographer and writer who lives in Spotsylvania. Learn more by visiting her own FB: facebook.com/dewphotographypage or her website at www.dewphotographyva.com photos by Dawn Whitmore
There is a picture of my maternal grandmother that draws me in every time I chance upon it in my family photos. She is young, between 18 and 20, so the photo was taken between 1938 and 1940. She exudes from this picture the health, vibrancy, and beauty of youth. She is happy, smiling, and her eyes are twinkling. She has a jaunty hat. It looks like a photo booth photo, because it is tiny, like those taken in a photo booth. It may also have been a passport photo. Again, I don’t know. What I do know is that this is my grandmother, before she became a mother, before she was married, before life got hold of her. Grama was a pianist and had a beautiful singing voice. So beautiful, that she had received a scholarship to attend Juilliard for both voice and piano. I believe this photo to have been taken around the time that she had Juilliard in her sights. She looks like a girl about to embark upon an adventure, with the carefree nature and joy of a young woman. She had no idea what would lie ahead. She married my grandfather a few years after this photo, and they moved from upstate New York to Florida. My mother was three years old. Two years later, Buddie was born, and was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, and not expected to live to his second birthday. We found newspaper clippings after my grandmother’s death. Articles in the local newspaper asked people to help with the expenses for “little Buddie” to go to New Orleans for treatment. The community rallied, and he was treated there. My grandmother then became pregnant with her third child. When Margaret was born, she, too, had Cystic Fibrosis. For the next few years, my grandmother tended to my mother and to two sick and dying babies. My grandparents’ marriage did not survive the death of their two youngest children. So my grandmother raised my mother by herself, with limited involvement from my grandfather, who
moved to south Florida and remarried. The beauty of my grandmother is this; she had an indomitable spirit. My personal experience of her was as a beloved grandchild, and she sang to me, and taught me to love music. We listened to the great classical composers together, and the old standards, and any other music she found interesting. We read, we laughed, and she was always smiling, as in the picture. The only sign of the sorrows she had borne emerged when I had my own children. Grama always licked their skin (babies with cystic fibrosis have unusually salty skin). When she thought she tasted salt on my daughter, April, she could not have peace until tested her for CF. We also tested my twins, who were born three and a half years later. None of my children tested positive, which was a great relief to her. Other than that one thing, my grandmother always smiled as she was in the photo of the young girl in the hat. She didn’t let her past sorrows drown her future joy. So when I see this picture and pictures from when I knew her, I see the same face, the same happy, twinkling eyes, the same lovely young woman as always. The quote from Robert Heinlein at the beginning of this piece said it all, “. . . There was never a girl born who ever grew older than eighteen in her heart . . . no matter what the merciless hours have done to her.” Jo Loving is sitting on her porch this evening, thinking about her own life, and whether her grandchildren will happen upon a picture of a young Jo at 18, carefree, healthy, happy, and glowing, and still see that girl in her as she is today. She certainly hopes so.
front porch fredericksburg
September 2016
31