Front Porch Fredericksburg September 2021

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contents

closeups 25

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history’s stories: mary washington Our Heritage: revisiting 500 block princess anne

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what’s in a time capsule?...The turning basin

hickman brothers muses in market square

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mental health: abuse related trauma

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it’s all energy: radiant circuits

Jane McDonald yuan dedicated leader of racsb

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emancipated patients:: to screen or not to screen

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your health matters: a fertility plan

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art in the ’burg ...galleries in September

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bowling green scene a happening hamlet

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companions: heart health

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astrology & you poetryman: william street cafe

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fredericksburg sketches

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chatham gardens final pieces

Nancy marie williams September cover artist

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Porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

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living history comes alive Labor Day Weekend

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everything greens: all about bees

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In the Garden: a natural oasis

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growing & crawling: blue mist flower

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i have a friend: lunch buddies

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domestic violence awareness

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tidbits...small bites of local news

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season’s bounty: apples, peaches, pumpkin

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spirits: Bowman cask strength bourbon

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vino: Drink Local-mountain run winery

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Calendar of Events

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...And More!

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3

Exposure Unlimited 35th anniversary

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riverfest returns to river

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B101.5 care-a-thon children’s national hospital benefit

Cover: “Parking on Princess Anne Street” By Nancy Williams

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September 2021

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Exposure Unlimited 35th Anniversary Exhibit

by John Nichols, Jr. Community College, Woodbridge "20th Century Gallery" Williamsburg, and other Gallery venues in Portsmouth, Ashland and Louisa, Virginia We initiated "Risk Takers" type shows in Fredericksburg.

Other than FCCA, past meeting and exhibiting bases have been the 3rd floor of 725 Caroline St. (a previous studio and exhibit space for the group) and Paula Rose's former shop Colonial Art and Frame.

Left to right, Jimmy Butler, Cathy Herndon, Bob Worthy, John Nichols Jr., Tarver Harris, Joan Limbrick, David Lovegrove After approaching Mo Schiff (late) then president of FCCA, I was encouraged to form a mixed artwork producing group and use FCCA as a base for meetings and exhibition space.

Cathy Herndon and Bob Worthy joined Mo and myself in reaching out to some other Fredericksburg area artmakers in order to cause a functioning group.

Sometime in February 1986 the first membership met at the FCCA and decided to be "Art Shop" using the center room at the FCCA main floor as a for sale of work display area. This group may be the first one of this type formed in the Fredericksburg area.

Maybe it was a coverage issue, but we changed gears at the August 1986 meeting (there were twelve + members)

and decided to rename as EXPOSURE UNLIMITED. The intention was to pursue places to exhibit as a group in Fredericksburg and beyond (Unlimited).

While that intention was met somewhat the group has mainly exhibited in Fredericksburg. An important early one was an Invitational from the Fredericksburg Commission for the Arts at Mary Washington College (now University of Mary Washington) Dupont Galleries (there were four rooms then - we had one and other organizations occupied the other three) during the winter of 19861987.

The main outside of Fredericksburg exhibits: "Our First Offense" Rappahannock Community College, Warsaw "Multiple Exposure" Northern Virginia

An article in the August 1991 Fredericksburg Times quoted our thought that "camaraderie and group harmony is based on a support for and enjoyment of the diversity in the group…." Reviewer Linda Max Joyce, Feb. 13, 1990 Free-Lance Star Reviewer LMJ February 13, 1990 Free-Lance Star "neon sculpture, xerography, and a lace bedecked glitter encrusted pair of jockey shorts are included in the exhibit…Exposure Unlimited have exposed their strength and diversity in a show that is well worth seeing".

This attitude among members continues today. Present members are: Jimmy Butler with "exquisite figurative wooden sculptures of incredible stories to Tarver Harris tell"; "that loves articulating both visually and verbally the current energetics on our planet.

Lately, feeling more refined and lighter"; Cathy Herndon "continues a portholes series using mixed media and tunnel vision views of now in the world"; Joan Limbrick “starts with space and color that evolves from day to day blending emotions and feelings to create a viewer's David Lovegrove "uses own story"; abstracted strength to remember and connect us with local objects and places";

John Nichols, Jr. "is continuing with minimalistic mixed media/collage relief on canvas"; Bob Worthy "makes acrylic and mixed media paintings that are composed of many layers of paint and texture creating a movement of surface that appears to be found rather than constructed. They suggest a feeling of time having moved on with understated pops of color providing energy to the dreamy compositions"; and Retta Robbins -(emeritus), figurative and social commentaries.

Age, as in most members are now "seniors" and in that most members of the present group have been together for many years and that the "younger" members are very experienced, gives the group a rare mature momentum. We don't exhibit "pictures" or "just décor "…" objects. That's not today.

This Exposure Unlimited 35th Anniversary exhibit is at, as many of the anniversary exhibits have been, the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts and will be an enlightening experience to witness.

John Nichols, Jr is a local artist and a founding member of Exposure Unlimited Photo by Carrol Morgan

Exposure Unlimited 35th Anniversary Exhibit Fredericksburg Center for Creative Arts 813 Sophia St, Downtown September 25 thru October 29 Thursday - Friday noon - 4pm Saturday 11am- 4pm Sunday 1-4 4pm

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September 2021

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ON THE PORCH Bill Freehling

Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan Sally Cooney Anderson Amy Bayne Nancy Bevilaqua Laurie Black Dianne Bachman Sarah Kay Bierle Sonja Cantu Collette Caprara Janet Douberly Nancy Fahy Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Bill Freehling Jon Gerlach Lisa Gillen Kristin Herman Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Carol Hyland David C. Kennedy Nancy Kelly Peter Maugle Amanda McCreary Wendy Migdel Ray Mikula Vanessa Moncure Carol Morgan Pete Morelewicz Patrick Neustatter John Nichols Jr Gerri Reid Paula Raudenbush Rob Rudick Mandy Smith Carleigh Strakston Lone Tabor Christine Thompson Tina Will Nancy Williams Kristie Wooldridge Norma Woodward

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright 2021 Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine All rights reserved.

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September 2021

progress despite pandemic

by Bill Freehling After a year of pandemic-induced semi-hibernation, downtown Fredericksburg is again bustling with energy - with more on the way soon.

In the early days of the COVID-19 shutdowns, you could practically hear a pin drop downtown. Our downtown businesses did a wonderful job pivoting their models to get through the pandemic with a variety of strategies, including ramping up online sales and going to a takeout/delivery model.

While the pandemic certainly isn't over, downtown businesses that got through the pandemic are now reaping the rewards.

It's wonderful to see crowds of people downtown again dining, browsing art galleries, working on scavenger hunts like Itty Bitty City, shopping, going to museums, walking the trails, getting on the river and generally enjoying the historic downtown ambience.

One thing that didn't grind to a halt during the pandemic was downtown construction, and we are all soon to get the benefit of that. Throughout the pandemic, a host of downtown projects carried on mostly as usual, and many will soon be ready. Here is a partial list of them: The rebuilt Chatham Bridge is expected to open in October. Not only will that restore a vital link to downtown for use vehicles, it will include a 10-ffoot multi-u path on the down-river side that will provide a wonderful connection to the outstanding trails in South Stafford.

People will then be able to safely walk or bike to Chatham, Belmont, Pratt and Brooks Parks and more. There will also be a scenic overlook in the middle of the multi-use path that will be a great spot for photos of downtown.

Also coming soon is Riverfront Park, which will be a new center of gravity

messages Thank you Pete for sharing your music & passion. RIP. (“When the Music Died” Tribute to Pete Fields, by Arch DiPeppe), July, 2021 M&S Studios

Great Article about Adam West (Spotlight, July 2021) Katherine Manikas Limerick

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for downtown. We expect copious events, relaxing, splashing, playing and rivergazing to occur in that park - which is right across from a nearly 300-space parking garage.

A host of private developments are also adding energy to our downtown.

Liberty Place has now opened, and the Mellow crowds arrive nightly to Mushroom and Blue Cow Ice Cream.

Coming soon to the development is Harry's Downtown. Cary Street Partners, Fit20 and Atlantic Union Bank are among the occupants of the upper floors. In that same block, there's now a second downtown parking garage, and a 34-unit apartment building should open before too much longer.

and across William Street in the years to come.

A host of new residential projects in and around the downtown will add additional foot traffic and energy to support some of these new businesses in addition to our highly valued existing businesses. These include The Lofts at Frederick Street, the Janney-Marshall project, the Hanover House project and more.

I look forward to watching all of this take shape in the coming years, and to being an active part of the downtown community throughout it all. I firmly believe that our best years still lie ahead.

In the next block over, The Free Lance-Star former headquarters has now been cleared, and a new 99-rroom hotel unit apartment building with a and 50-u fitness center are beginning to take shape.

More activity will occur on this property

Bill Freehling is Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism and a long-time cover-to-cover reader of Front Porch. He lives just outside downtown Fredericksburg with his wife, two kids and two cockapoos

Dear Virginia; We really enjoyed Jon Gerlach’s article (“What’s in a Village”, August 2021) featuring Normandy Village, our neighborhood that began with young families in the 50’s/60’s,and is experiencing regrowth with a whole new set of young families. In addition to being affliated with the Canal Quarter Association, we qalso proudly refer to ourselves as Normandy Village, as well as the adjoining Old Fairground/Riverside neighborhood.

Kevin Brown

Dear Virginia Another great cover (August, 2021, “Farmer’s Market”, by Pete Morelewicz). Thanks for highlighting local artists and photographers each month in Front Porch.

Norma Woodward Front Porch Thank you Amanda McCreary for your useful & informative article (Preserving your Garden Herbs”, July 2021)...So helpful Sheila Brown

Living History civil war comes alive at fxbg battlefield By peter maugle the Rappahannock Whalers and 3rd U.S. Strings who will play sea shanties and Civil War tunes. Bring a chair!

Parking is available at the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center, 1013 Lafayette Boulevard.

All programs are family friendly, free of charge, and open to the public.

Celebrate Constitution Week

All individuals over the age of two, regardless of vaccination status, must wear masks outdoors at this program where social distancing cannot be maintained. Masks are required for all individuals over the age of two, regardless of vaccination status, inside federal buildings.

September 17-23 Spotsylvania Chapter, National Daughters of the American Revolution

On Labor Day Weekend, September 4-5 Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, in conjunction with multiple living history groups, will host a unique living history

event covering various aspects of the Civil War. Depictions of soldiers, civilians, and leaders will convey the stories of what happened before, during, and after the Battle of Fredericksburg.

Peter Maugle is a ranger with the National Park Services Photos courtesy of NMP

No Music Under The Stars Again This Year!

For over 30 years SAWA has sponsored the annual Music by Moonlight Concert, featuring the Fredericksburg Big Band raising funds to send local disadvantaged children to The Salvation Army's Camp Happyland The concert is normally held the Saturday after Labor Day. Because the concert has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to Covid-related issues, donations are much needed.

The camping experience helps these children learn new skills, build selfreliance and fun-filled, character building memories. $250 helps send a child to camp for a week; any amount is welcome.

DONATE NOW https://give.virginiasalvationarmy.org/MusicbyMoonlight or mail to: SAWA (MBM), P.O. Box 179, Fredericksburg, VA 22404 Sponsored by The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary (SAWA)

The event will occur from 9am5pm on Saturday, September 4, and 10am-3pm on Sunday, September 5. All living historians will be outside at different locations along the Sunken Road and Marye's Heights.

Visitors are encouraged to engage with the reenactors and kids may pick up a free Junior Ranger activity booklet to earn a special patch. Musket firing demonstrations will occur throughout the weekend (may not be suitable for people or animals sensitive to loud noises).

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Battlefields Memorial National Military Park (NMP) includes the sites of four major battles spanning eighteen crucial months of the Civil War. The battles caused more than 100,000 casualties.

The constant presence of armies left Fredericksburg and the surrounding agricultural landscape devastated and ended bondage for thousands of enslaved people in the region. The park is the second largest military park in the world.

Learn more at www.nps.gov/frsp, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

At 6:30pm Saturday evening there will be a musical program featuring front porch fredericksburg

September 2021

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Riverfest returns to the river

By Carleigh Starkson All proceeds from Riverfest will support Friends of the Rappahannock's mission to keep the Rappahannock River healthy and scenic through advocacy, restoration and education projects.

Throughout the evening local bands will be playing while guests mingle under tents overlooking the river. Each ticket purchase will not only include a complementary open bar, all you can eat blue crabs, and BBQ catered by Angelo's of the Northern Neck.

One Riverfest 2019 attendee explained, "We love to come every year!

It's almost like a large family gathering where you know the food will be delicious and you will leave with full bellies and happy hearts."

Tickets for the Riverfest crab-feast event are available now for $125.

Tickets must be bought in advance for admissions to the event and can be purchased at riverfriends.org/riverfest.

This year Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) will be returning to the river for our annual Riverfest crab feast fundraiser on Sat. Sept 25th from 37pm at Fredericksburg City Dock to have a good party for a great cause!

FOR invites Rappahannock River community members, organizations and local businesses to join us for our biggest fundraiser of the year. This event combines live music, raffle prizes, a live auction, delicious food, drinks, a scenic view of the river and an opportunity to celebrate all we have accomplished for the river in the past year. There will be both in-person and virtual options to enjoy the crab feast.

"Riverfest is the most effective event for local business people. It is a fun event with no need to dress up. It has a low barrier to enter and the benefits are

Carleigh Starkson is the Development Coordinator for Friends of the Rappahannock.

high for a business owner to meet and talk to the movers and shakers in Fredericksburg" FOR Member Chris Muldrow

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

Buffalo Check “A Fall Classic”

Riverfest crab feast fundraiser Saturday Sept 25th from 3-7 7pm at Fredericksburg City Dock Purchase tickets in advance at riverfriends.org/riverfest

Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940

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September 2021

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Everything Greens All about bees

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

Recently at Downtown Greens, we celebrated Bee Week to mark the week each year when we harvest the honey from our hives in the Lower Garden. We love our bees, and love sharing our knowledge of these amazing insects. Enjoy some of our favorite bee facts and resources below.

contains antioxidants and micronutrients that our bodies need. Make sure you're buying local, raw honey so that you get all the benefits of honey's natural properties while supporting the local economy.

Why are bees so important?

Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male parts of a flower to the female parts of a flower in the same species, which results in the fertilization of the plant's ovary (or fruit) and the production of seeds. One out of every three bites of food we eat are because of bee's pollination work. Their sweet pollination skills don't just affect our food supply, but also play a major role in maintaining natural plant communities and ensuring the production of seeds in most flowering plants.

The Tuskegee Bee Ladies Some of the most important advances in apiology (the study of bees) and bee culture studies were done at Tuskeegee University by their nationally acclaimed Beekeeping Ladies.

When technology, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural innovation during the Industrial Revolution replaced more sustainable practices, many at Tuskeegee University sought to rediscover and innovate on some of these lost practices -- including beekeeping!

Bees are also the only insect that produces a substance we consume - honey!

Raw honey has anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties and it also

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

Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

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

Margaret James Murray, dean of women and partner to Booker T. Washington, led the "Bee Guy" Mike Costa checking on hives apiology efforts alongside her in our lower garden efforts to improve her own "hive" by working for prison improvement, women's rights, antiWatch Bee Experts at Work lynching activisim, helped to found For an in-depth look at schools, and constantly looked out for honeybees from experts and researchers those in need. in the field, check out the Dyce Lab for Dance Like a Bee The waggle dance is a special dance that is done by the honey bee in its hive that indicates direction and distance of a nectar-rich flower patch to her fellow honeybees. The bee walks in a circle, turns around, and then walks the same circle in the opposite direction. The duration of this waggle is thought to indicate the quality of the flower patch that was found.

For more information about this impressive dance, check out the video by NOVA PBS linked on our Facebook page!

Want to learn more about bees?

Check out these great resources: Become a Beekeeper There are two local Beekeeping Gateway certification programs: Beekeepers Association | Located in King George. In addition to the certification program, this group of beekeepers also gathers on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00PM-9:00PM to share stories and learn from each other.

Rappahannock Beekeepers Association .

This is where Downtown Greens staff got their certification back in 2014!

Honeybee Studies and University of Guelph's Honey Bee Research Centre channels on Youtube!

Check Out A Bee Book Central Rappahannock The Regional Library have tons of fascinating and informative books on bees, including their recommendations shown here.

Amanda Mccreary is the Garden Coordinator for Downtown Greens. She is passionate about cultivating native green spaces and sharing what she knows about the natural world with visitors to the garden. When Amanda isn't gardening she can be found at home in her favorite purple armchair reading fantasy novels or playing video games.

Founded in 1995, Downtown Greens promotes environmental care by preserving two urban garden areas, using sustainable gardening methods, teaching children through a weekly Garden Club, and raising bees with the Urban Bees program. Located at 206 Charles Street downtowngreens.org. Be sure to visit Fredericksburg's Community Greespace open from sunrise to sunset 365 days per year.

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In the Garden gardens: a natural oasis at all times By tina will

photos by Lone Tabor The residents at Falls Run Community in Stafford County continue to enjoy the garden known as 'Nature's Oasis.' (above) Five years ago, it was newly under the care of Master Gardener (MG) Mary Henderson. MG Nancy Bevilaqua took over for Mary and, four years on, she and her crew of ten weed and care for the garden every two weeks. The theme continues to be fitting: flowers and seeds have attracted, supported, and fed many pollinators, and songbirds continue to make their nests there, hatching and fledging their young.

Nancy's favorite flower is, by her admission, 'whatever is in bloom.' I love a practical answer! And really, that is the mark of this successful garden because

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September 2021

there is always something lovely to enjoy. There is also the help and encouragement of the crew of 10 (they call themselves 'the Grunts') who continue to maintain the garden. Appreciative residents come to its central location to sit, stroll through, notice, contemplate, and enjoy whatever is in bloom or seed at the time. Herbs are a big part of the offerings, too, and Nancy is grateful for their reliability. Constant questions of what is growing there are answered by the gardeners, or a brochure that resides near the bench (and no one has taken it away!). The most difficult challenge seems to be in early Spring when the bunnies find the new growth emerging. It's delicious to them, but they must be deterred, so some netting has helped prevent too much nibbling.

Fortunately, Nancy and others had taken pictures at opportune times.

Shown here is the hybrid Hibiscus 'Lord Baltimore' in its glory near the center of the garden, and another picture of the Zebra Swallowtail Butterfly(photo right) on the native (not invasive) Milkweed aka Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). A week later the

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garden and those beautiful flowers were badly beaten by the 'derecho like' storm that roared down Rte 17 and then veered off to the Truslow Rd. area. This garden took a hit, but not nearly as badly as other neighborhoods. But plants are resilient, and the thoughtful and caring crew at Falls Run will see that their garden recovers.

photos by Tina Will

Cedell Brooks Jr. Native Plant Demonstration Garden in King George, VA continues to get rave reviews. Master Gardeners are pleased to

photos by Nancy Bevilaqua

talk to, and are encouraged by, visitors who ask questions or just express admiration and appreciation. Encouraging words really help our MGs to carry on, even when weeding isn't a fun task.

Widewater State Park's Native Plant Demonstration Garden has been started, but needs some time to establish and get signs added. MG Beth Daly has worked with fellow MGs Mary Ellen Green and Alvin Calhoun to share the extra native plants from the Cedell Brooks Jr. Garden. State Park personnel are helping too, and we are grateful!

These gardens encourage all to learn about native plants, to get new ideas for their own gardens, and to enjoy the intricate beauty and variety of the natural world. Find your favorite, and share what you learn.

Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 17 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County.

Growing & Crawling Blue mist flower By janet douberly We all want to help our pollinators but with Autumn approaching sometimes we forget about the plants that are still going strong and feeding our sixlegged friends.

Become a Member

fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Blue Mist Flower, or 'Conoclinium coelestinum' is also called Wild Ageratum or Blue Boneset.

The flower gets its common name from the delicate blue/lavender blooms that provide a lot of still necessary nectar for our pollinators in the late summer and early fall.

Blue Mist Flower is a Rappahannock area native that prefers full sun but is also shade tolerant which makes it a great plant for the home garden. Once established, this beautiful bloom will use its rhizomes to spread out to fill a space with delicate flowers that occur in flat-topped clusters at the top of the stem. The clusters can be several inches across in width. The native version of this plant can grow up to 3 feet and prefers wet soils. Though the leaves make one think it is part of the mint family, this plant shares the asteraceae family with

lettuce, sunflowers, and artichokes, as well as many of our other favorite flowers!

While this plant doesn't have any medicinal or culinary uses for humans, it provides a sweet snack for bees, birds, butterflies, and native insects in the fall.

It is also an excellent addition to landscaping and wildflower areas. Come

by Downtown Greens to check it out!

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

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September 2021

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“I Have A Friend” LUNCH BUDDIES

By Laurie Black When I first met Bob (pictured) to talk to him about joining the Senior Visitors Program, I was impressed by his positive and gracious manner as he spoke modestly of his career and accomplishments. Though Bob was a world traveler, he told me, "At this point, I would simply like someone to talk to and have lunch with."

In April, Bob was introduced to Senior Visitors Program volunteer, Steven Metzler. Steven and Bob now enjoy weekly conversations over lunch. Steven says, "Bob and I meet each Friday for a late breakfast (lunch). We usually go to the Lafayette Diner where everybody knows Bob! We enjoy a plate full of eggs and bacon and interesting conversation. I enjoy hearing Bob's stories of what he has encountered during his life. He always seems to be positive and upbeat and really brightens my Fridays. Bob is a fascinating individual. He had an extremely interesting international career and has so many stories to share.

I enjoy hearing each of them!"

Bob says, "We have a very pleasant lunch every time, talking about

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September 2021

a full range of things. The waitresses recognize both of us there."

Bob went on to say he particularly enjoyed a lunch where Steve's wife was able to join them. "She works with Marines' children. The little kids tell her a lot about Okinawa, where I served for 3 years."

Bob heard about the Senior Visitors Program through his daughter-inlaw. Steven heard about the Senior Visitors Program through a friend who is also a volunteer with the program. "I learned about the Senior Visitors Program from a good friend. He shared some of his experience with the program and it inspired me to get involved. I had a desire to give something back to others."

I asked Bob if he would recommend the Senior Visitors Program to a friend? He replied, "Yes. It works for me. Gets me out of the house. Makes for a pleasant lunch. At my age, I've run out of friends to have lunch with, so I welcomed the opportunity."

The Senior Visitors Program promotes independence and healthy living

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for older adults in their own home environment and foster a continued connection to their community.

Volunteers offer socialization, companionship, and in some cases respite to caregivers.

Volunteers and seniors are matched based on time availability, geographic proximity, and common interests and background.

During this time when so many people (especially seniors) are socially isolated, we want to make sure the seniors in our community know they are not forgotten.

The Senior Visitors Program is closely following the Center for Disease Control COVID guidelines, and we are doing all we can to safely alleviate the isolation so many seniors feel. For some like Bob and Steven, that may be a Friday lunch at their favorite restaurant. For most seniors in the Senior Visitors Program, that means a home visit which may include a game of cards, a puzzle, a walk around the neighborhood, or just sitting and reminiscing.

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

Laurie Black is the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator.

Domestic Violence Awareness Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life!

Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.

empowerhouse offers help & hope By nancy kelly

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

1 in 4 women in the U.S. have been a victim of intimate partner violence.

Every 5 days, a Virginian is killed because of domestic violence. 10,000 children in our community witness family violence each year.

Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required.

These are alarming and heartbreaking statistics. For 43 years, Empowerhouse has supported survivors of domestic violence and their families in the City of Fredericksburg and Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford Counties with free, confidential lifechanging services. We have empowered survivors and their children to believe in themselves and build new lives filled with dignity, respect, safety, and hope.

Empowerhouse breaks the cycle of violence through shelter, housing, advocacy, education, awareness, prevention, and intervention. In fiscal year 2020, we served over 3,800 people in our community.

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

Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704

For almost a year and a half, we have been helping moms and children who

are not only fleeing from domestic violence, but are also dealing with the additional stress, health concerns and economic challenges associated with the pandemic.

Survivors of domestic violence and their children, an already vulnerable population, have been especially hard hit during COVID19.

As a result of Weekly Deliveries of much needed items to families the pandemic, Bi-W in Empowerhouse Housing Programs Empowerhouse has experienced a 32% increase in hotline calls for survivors and Fredericksburg, VA 22407 - NEW 70 Sebring Drive families in crisis as compared to before LOCATION, Fredericksburg 22406 or 10050 Jefferson COVID-19. The demand for our services and the corresponding expenses have Davis Hwy., Fredericksburg, VA 22407. increased significantly, especially as they relate to safe housing. Our Shelter and Housing Programs have been at capacity.

From July 2020 through May 2021, we assisted 48 households with 75 children in our Housing Program. Each child was assigned an advocate who scheduled weekly check-ins that included bi-weekly deliveries of food, activities, crafts, and basic need items to support them and help their single parent families manage. Additionally, we have been sheltering every survivor of domestic violence and their children requesting safe escape from abuse within our service area.

Our caring community has been essential in helping us meet these increased demands and expenses. It is critical that we continue to respond to this elevated need.

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One of the ways Empowerhouse reaches out to offer hope and services for those who need us is through Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.

During the early fall and into October, we hold special community events where we share information, support survivors and families and raise important funds.

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

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Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

Here are 3 ways you can help stop domestic violence as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. All events are open to the public and some require preregistration.

Saturday, September 18 - Charity Car Wash sales benefit Empowerhouse at three Rio Car Wash locations all day from 8 am to 4 pm, all day car wash purchases go to Empowerhouse - 4811 Plank Road,

Friday, October 1 - 13th Annual Golf Tournament at Pendleton Golf Club, Ladysmith, VA. Scheduled tee times. Putt an end to domestic violence! Must preregister on the Empowerhouse's website: Empowerhouseva.org.

Tuesday, October 19 Empowerhouse 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil will take place from 4 pm to 6 pm at The King George Citizen's Center, 8076 Kings Hwy., King George, VA 22485 With your ongoing help, Empowerhouse will continue to meet the increased, urgent needs of survivors of domestic violence and their children and equip them with the crucial tools and resources to support their healing journey.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call our free, confidential 24-hour hotline at (540) 373-9373 or go to Empowerhouseva.org for more information.

Nancy Kelly is the Development Director for Empowerhouse

To help Empowerhouse's Domestic Violence Shelter families and provide the crucial items they need to get through this challenging time Please mail a donation to: Empowerhouse, P.O. Box 1007, Fredericksburg, VA 22402.

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September 2021

11

TidBits

Become a Member

small bites of local News

By Bill Freehling that Fredericksburg's status as a "Runner Friendly Community" has been extended for another five years.

www.fredericksburgcsa.com

Apartment Building Planned A three-story apartment building is planned on the 1.06-acre property where Colonial Tavern is located at 406 Lafayette Blvd. in downtown Fredericksburg.The Colonial Tavern building would remain as part of the project,

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

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

Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant 200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

John Hennessy Retires The chief historian at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, has announced his retirement from the National Park Service.

Forty years ago, John began his career with the NPS at Manassas Battlefield Park.

Ever since, he has proved himself to be a dedicated public historian, specializing in Civil War history. He has written numerous books on the subject, including Return to Bull Run: The Campaign and Battle of Second Manassas, and was a contributing author to Mysteries & Conundrums.

John's commitment to uncovering the past and interpreting our history for future generations has undoubtedly made a mark on Fredericksburg that will last a lifetime.

Thank you for your devoted years of service

12

September 2021

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The long awaited Chatham Bridge, a key link to Fredericksburg, expected to reopen by October

Congratulations to Riverby Books celebrating 25 years in business!

Financial Center to Open C&F Bank will open a financial center in the former Kybecca restaurant space at 400 William Street in downtown Fredericksburg that will offer retail and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage services

FXBG a Runner Friendly Community The City of Fredericksburg has again been recognized as a wonderful place for runners. The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) recently announced

Tech in the Burg New Location Fredericksburg computer repair and network support business, has moved to a new location at 505 Lafayette Blvd.

Its previous location was at 1025 Caroline Street in downtown Fredericksburg. Techs in the Burg has served Fredericksburg for the past 12 years, and we wish them all the success at their new location!

New Trails open at Motts Run Reservior There are now more than 12 miles of biking and hiking trails at Motts Run, including one that goes all the way around the reservoir.

For more information about FredTrails, go to www.fredtrails.org.

The second-annual Virginia Black Business Expo will be held at the Fredericksburg Expo Center the weekend of Sept. 10. For more information about the Virginia Black Business Directory or the event, go to vablackbusinessdirectory.org.

Serving Up Local “Good” News For a Quarter Century

Front Porch Fredericksburg

.DeDe and Sunshine Dog Grooming A dog-grooming business has opened in a former restaurant space at the corner of Princess Anne and Fauquier streetsis now open in the building at 303 Fauquier St.

Route 3. Downtown Greens has a vision for "unparalleled 56-acre parcel of land" that includes conservation, farming, agricultural education, passive recreation and more. Downtown Greens needs to raise significant funds for the acquisition over the next few months and has begun a campaign.

DTG Purchasees 5.6 acre Property Downtown Greens, A Fredericksburg-based nonprofit is under contract to purchase a 56-acre property in the Battlefield Industrial Park off State

Bill Freehling, Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism, lives with his wife, Emily, two children, Abby and Andrew, and cockapoo, Chessie, in downtown Fredericksburg.

The Sunken Well Tavern

Season’s Bounty

Apples, peaches, & pumpkin pie vanessa moncure

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

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

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

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

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

There's a great conglomeration of deliciousness at the farmer's market this time of year - besides garden produce, you'll find fresh tree and bush fruit and all types of squash. Apples, peaches, pumpkins, all kinds of squash, figs, melons, pears, raspberries - well, the list just goes on and on. This song title revives an annual very annoying ear worm for me, inspired by the named produce piling up in my kitchen, although Jay and the Techniques didn't have pastry or fruit in mind when they sang Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie back in 1968. (It actually referred to a game of hide and seek really??) but has become my fall anthem to this confluence of fruits. Apple and peach cobblers, crisps, crumbles, dumplings, strudels, cakes, butters and pie recipes are fairly interchangeable with just a switch in spices and baking or cooking times.

PIE PASTRY CRUST This makes enough for a twocrust pie, what you will need for most tree or bush fruit pies. When I need a savory pie crust, one calling for a filling of meats or seafood, I substitute the Crisco for half butter and lard, with a dash more salt. If baking a blind crust (prebaking for custard pies, quiches, cream, chocolate, lemon meringue, buttermilk) add a sprinkle of sugar to help brown. This is an easy-to-work, great all-around pie crust recipe. Cut 2/3c. plus 1T. Crisco into mixture of 2c.flour and 1/2tsp. salt until completely incorporated. With a fork, add 1/4c. ice water until it forms a workable dough. If needed, add more ice water 1T. at a time but do not overwork or your pastry will be tough. Roll out between two lightly floured sheets of waxed paper then place in well greased pie shell. Use a minimum amount of flour as adding too much more will also make your pie crust tough and/or dry. Either blind bake or fill with pie filling and bake as directed.

APPLE OR PEACH PIE Place one half recipe of rolled out pie crust dough in 9"round pie pan. If using deep dish, increase the amount of fruit and other ingredients by half and increase baking time about 20-30 minutes.

Peel and slice into a large bowl 6 cups of fruit. Stir in 1/2c. each granulated and light brown sugar, 2T. lemon juice, dash of salt, 1/4tsp. each ground cinnamon and nutmeg, 1/4 cup flour (add additional 2 T. if peaches are very juicy). Turn into pastry shell, dot with 2 T. butter then top with second pastry round. Flute the edges together. Beat one egg white with 1 T. water and brush all over the top and especially the fluted edges of pie crust. Cut

several vents in the top. Bake in preheated 425F oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375F and cook until fruit bubbles and pastry is golden brown, about 45 minutes to an hour. I usually bake my pies on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper or foil, just to prevent juices from running over and burning on the bottom of the oven. Let pie cool at least 15-20 minutes before cutting - serve with vanilla ice cream or sweetened whipped cream.

TRADITIONAL PUMPKIN PIE When baking a pumpkin pie, I usually slow roast two small sweet pumpkins in the oven to have enough fruit for the pie. Wash pumpkins, place in 9"x13" pan and roast in the oven until a knife inserts easily through the flesh. Let cool, then peel and remove seeds (save to roast separately if desired). Puree 2 cups of pumpkin (or use canned pumpkin) and combine with 3 eggs, ¼ c. each granulated and light brown sugar, 1 ½ cups evaporated milk or heavy cream, ½ tsp. each salt and ground cloves, 2 tsp. cinnamon and 1 tsp. ground ginger (or 2 T. grated fresh ginger). Pour into one 9inch blind baked pie crust, sprinkle the top with a bit of nutmeg or mace and bake in preheated 425F oven 10 minutes, then reduce the heat and bake at 350F another 35 minutes or until set. If there is extra filling, or if you prefer not to have a crust, pour into a buttered baking pan and bake until the filling is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.

HOW TO BLIND BAKE A CRUST (sometimes called pre-baking) Prepare the dough as you would for and pie dough. Place in greased pie pan and flute the edges. Pierce the bottom and sides of the crust with a fork, otherwise air pockets could form. Chill the dough for at least thirty minutes in the refrigerator, lightly covered. Preheat oven to 425F. Cover dough with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then fill with pie weights, rice or dried beans (don't discard rice after use, just cool and save for later use. The rice will take on a toastier flavor, which can add another layer of flavor if cooked in chicken, beef or vegetable broth.

However, dedicate the beans to blind baking pies or discard. They are no longer good for cooking or eating). Place on baking sheet, then place on bottom rack of oven. Reduce heat to 400F and bake 1012 minutes, then remove from oven. Lift up edges of foil or parchment and pour pie weights, rice or beans in a bowl as you won't need them any more. Replace the baking sheet and return the pie to the oven. If you will be baking the crust again

after it is filled, bake just until the bottom is beginning to color (about 6-8 minutes).

If making a cream, custard or refrigerated pie, bake until the entire crust is golden brown, about 12-15 minutes. Remove from oven and complete your recipe.

WOW - A secret to help prevent a soggy crust - after removing the blind baked crust from the oven, brush the inside of the crust with egg wash (1T. water beaten with one egg). Return to the oven for a minute or two until the crust appears a bit shiny.

And please try all the other varieties of winter squash - The reason they are known as winter squash is although they fall into the general label of "squash", (like the well-known yellow and zucchini summer squash varieties) they have a thicker skin and can be kept through the winter.

Vanessa has yummy recipes for every season.

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September 2021

13

SpiritS A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon wins master medal by kristie wooldridge A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon. will be an annual release, bottled uncut and non chill-filtered. Tasting notes for this bourbon describe it as starting off with the aroma of vanilla, apple, and dried cherries.

Hints of toasted pecan and candied nuts give way to brown sugar, brown spice, and toasted coconut. The finish is oily and viscous with a delicious aftertaste that keeps going on long after the final sip.

Just a month after its release, A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon was awarded a Master medal, the highest granted, at the 2021 American Whiskey Masters. The newest addition to the Distillery's lineup, each barrel included in A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is hand-

selected by Master Distiller Brian Prewitt and aged a minimum of 10 years. The initial release of this uncut, non chillfiltered bourbon packing a punch at 141.1 Proof, New Cask Strength is Permanent Addition to Line Up

"We're excited to add another offering in the A. Smith Bowman line of bourbons, especially a Cask Strength, which we're sure will be really popular with our fans”, said Master Distiller Brian Prewitt" “This first release in this annual series contains barrels selected from the lower tiers in Warehouses A1 and A. We thought the flavor combinations resulted in a delicate sipping bourbon that drinks like a much lower proof. We hope you agree!"

Three other A. Smith Bowman Distillery bourbons also received Gold medals: Bowman Brothers Small Batch

Join Us on the Rooftop for Chill VIbes, Tasty Eats, & Cold Drinks Open every Sat 7am-2 2pm Rain/Shine @Hurkamp Park masks & gloves recommended 314 William St..656-2500..fb@vivifyburger..vivifyburger.com

Become a Member

fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com 14

September 2021

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Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Isaac Bowman Port Finished Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and John J. Bowman Single Barrel Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

"We are very honored to be recognized at the American Whiskey Masters this year," said Prewitt. "For our entire lineup of bourbons to be recognized in such a prestigious event really brings a great sense of pride with our small distillery team."

The American Whiskey Masters is chaired by The Spirits Business and a panel of leading spirits specialists. The record-number of entries were judged by category in a blind tasting held in July. For a full list of this year's results, visit The American Whiskey Masters 2021 results (thespiritsbusiness.com).

Kristie Wooldridge is the Public Relations Associate Manager of Communications for A.Smith Bowman Distillery

Olde Towne Butcher

Vino

Traditional Butchery - Fresh Perspective

drink local Clean, local, sustainable, humane foods prepared fresh.

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

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

by City Vino

Join Us for Breakfast $5 Sunrise Breakfast Special 2 Eggs Your Way Breakfast Potatoes Choice of Toast

Mon./Fri. 6am-10:30am Carry Out Available

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

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

540-898-0737

Established in 2016, Mountain Run Winery is located on Mountain Run Lake Road, in Culpepper, Virginia. The winery is named after the Mountain Run waterway that navigates from Mountain Run Lake, along the rear of the property, and into Lake Pelham.

The winery sits on a 125-year-old farm comprised of 36 acres of fields, forest, and vineyards. Within the farm there are five acres of grapes, berries, and pear trees.

The vineyards were planted in 2015 with Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Crimson Cabernet, Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, Traminette, Mourvèdre, Nebbiolo, Albariño, and Dornfelder. They also have small plantings of Niagara, Concord, Catawba, Diamond, and Swenson vines.

They source additional grapes from Aldie, Hume, Fredericksburg, and outside of Lynchburg. They also have blackberries, raspberries, and elderberries planted along the forest line for use to make both wine and jam.

Four of Mountain Run Winery's wine featured here: Simply Chardonnay, Dog Rock Rose, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

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

The Simple Chardonnay is just that-it's true to its name, as it is simply crisp, simply light, and simply delicious.

The wine features aromas and flavors of green apple and lemon, along with a balanced minerality.

Dog Rock Rosé is perfect for a hot day, with its fresh-strawberry taste, followed by zippy grapefruit on the finish.

This off-dry gem has a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness. The wine is a blend of 50 percent Shiraz, mixed with 50 percent Crimson Cabernet. In case you haven't heard of Crimson Cabernet, it is a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Virginia's own Norton!

The Cabernet Franc is true to its character, with aromas of violets and roasted red pepper on the palate. This wine is lighter-bodied than the Cabernet Sauvignon and features smooth tannins.

The wine was aged for eight months in French oak.

Our final wine is the Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine has dark berry aromas, and flavors with notes of leather and tobacco leaf. The winery notes that this is a wine to pair with steak or a cigar.

Come join us and drink local!

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

Mountain Run Winery 10753 Mountain Run Lake Road Culpepper, Virginia.

Open Sept-O Oct Thursday thru Monday 12n - sunset Rest of year: Friday-S Sunday, 12n-ssunset 703-6 638-5 5559 montainrunwinery.com Facebook; Insta

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September 2021

15

CALEND september 2021...Concerts, Festivals, Riverfest, Art, Living History....What’s Not to love in September?

Wednesday September 1

Wind Down Wednesday Live Concert Series, 6-8pm Memorial Park, 1401 Kenmore Avenue Karen Jonas.Free event. Bring a chair or blanket and your picnic. Or purchase dinner from one of our food vendors.visit Parks.Fxbg.com.

First Friday September 3

FCCA, “Visual Rhythm”, National Exhibit, Members Gallery, “Lasting Allure of Paint II” Brush Strokes Gallery, “Animal Antics” Exhibit Art First “A Helping Hand” Works by Sheila Jones, opening 6-9p

Wednesday September 8

Prayers & Squares, 9-11:30, Join need , all levels of experience welco Elk Ridge Rd, 22406. 2nd Sat of ea

FXBG Community Meeting, Courtyard Marriott, 8:30a. Come out and hear all the news for Fall and Holiday plans

Sunday September 12

Wind Down Wednesday Live Concert Series, 6-8pm Memorial ParkCat's Meow Band. Free event. For more information please call 540-372-1086 or visit Parks.Fxbg.com.

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch

Witches, Ghost, Murder & Mayhem Carriage Ride Did you know that FXBG, VA is known for being one of the "Most Haunted Cities in America" Come join us for a 45 min horse drawn carriage tour to find the undead and experience burg's spooky side $ Carriages @Visitor Center

Grandparent’s Day

2nd Annual VA Black Business 5p.Showcasing the Excellence of B weekend purposeful shopping, ente

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken We

Thursday September 9

Tuesday September 14

Back to Scouting night informational session with Cub Scout Pack 802. at Old Mill Park 6:30pm.

Live Music @ The Rec Center, Erin I Review, 7p

Friday September 10

Wednesday September 15

Bowling Green Farmers Market 9am-1pm 211 N Main St.

Soggy Doggy Swim, Doris Buffet Pool in Dixon Park, 12-8p, open to dogs 12 weeks and older.Half of all proceeds donated to the FXBG SPCA.

Spanglish..Free concert Bring a c purchase dinner from one of our visit Parks.Fxbg.com.

Art in the Park at the fxbg Farmers Market Hurkamp Park 9am - 1pm For more info fxbgfarmersmarket.com or call 540-372-1086.

Beef & Crab Festival 50th Anniversary of the FXBG Ducks Unlimited Enjoy crabs cooked on-site, raffles, beer.. FXBG Fairgrounds, 2-7p

FredNats vs Lynchburg Hillcats s @FredNats Stadium7p

Living History at FXBG Military Park. Depictions of Civil War soldiers, civilians & military leaders will be at different locations along the Sunken Road & Marye Heights, 9a-5p

FredNats Concert Series, "I Love the 90's" tour group featuring iconic artists Vanilla Ice, All 4 One, Coolio, Kid N Play, and Young MC will perform For ticket sales, seating chart FredNatsConcerts.com.

Friday September 17

An evening with Hazel Run for an evening of music at our nature preserve along the Rappahannock River. the band, will play well-loved Americana inspired melodies. 6-8p, @Friends of the Rappahannock, 3219 Fall Hill Rd

Sounds of Summer Concert Series, Karen Jonas@Market Square, 6-8p

Arts @Historic Kenmore: Movie on Nicholas Cage and the Declaration

Grand Reopening, Eden Try Winery, celebrating Labor Day weekend with live music, good eats, Devil's Back Bone Beer & our delicious wines!!

Friday 9/3 - Monday 9/6 11-8pm 6818 River Road, 22407

Saturday September 4

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, an open air markets grown, homemade, or hand baked goods sold

home

Sunday September 5

Living History at FXBG Military Park. Depictions of Civil War soldiers, civilians & military leaders will be at different locations along the Sunken Road & Marye Heights, 10a-3p

Kimman's 17th Birthday Celebration, come visit our Celebrity Bartenders, join us for food , fun. Event thru sept 12.1004 Caroline St.

Saturday September 11

20th anniversary of 9/11 CRRL 9/11 Poster Exhibition, marking the attacks, on display in every branch. We're also offering lists of essential 9/11 reading and viewing for adults and children.

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p, Bowling Green Flea Market, 9a-1p Chase St & North Main

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, 720 Littlepage til 1p

Coping Together Cancer Support Group Monthly group offering effective ways to cope with the altered lifestyles cancer brings. Open to caregivers, family..& friends Regional Cancer Center, 1300 Hospital Drive #101, 7-8p

Ladies Night Out, Dainty Chic Roa Green, 5-9p

Live Music @The Rec Center, Meta

Fall Movie Series gates open at 5pm food truck available for dinner. Br will be announced closer to t @FredParksRec and our website Pa

Saturday September 18

Spotsy Farmers Market @Gordon Rd, 8a-1p

Art in the Park at the FXBG Farme

2nd Annual VA Black Business Expo, FXBG Expo Center, 11a 5p.Showcasing the Excellence of Black-Owned Businesses. Join us for a weekend purposeful shopping, entertainment, education and growth

Rappahannock Model Railroaders RMR Clubhouse, 406 Hudgins Rd -

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

Labor Day September 6

Wind Down Wednesday Live Concer

Live Music @the Rec Center, William St. Northern Life , Genosha, Longsleeves, Tarrae, Guardrails, 7p

Charity Car Wash to benefit Em locations: Rio Fast, Rio Clean, Rio F

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

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

September 2021

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fabtrail.com

DAR of events

us to construct quilts for people in ome, Grace Methodist Church, 13056 ach month thru May 2022

h, 720 Littlepage til 1p

Expo, FXBG Expo Center, 11a Black-Owned Businesses. Join us for a ertainment, education and growth ll Tavern 6-8pm

Incoherent; Puff Yeah; The Ambulance

5

rt Series, 6-8pm Memorial Park

chair or blanket and your picnic. Or food vendors. info 540-372-1086 or

see AAA Baseball live and in-person

adside Stand, 116 Chase St, Bowling

the Lawn, National Treasure staring of the Independence 7:30p $

al Night, 7p

m / Movie starts at dark FREE, All Ages ring your chairs and blankets. Movies the dates on our Facebook page rks.FXBG.com.

rs Market, Hurkamp Park 9am - 1pm

Fall Open House! 10am-4pm More info. at www.rmrailroaders.com

mpowerhouse, Rio Car Wash, three Friendly, 8a-4p

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p,

Bowling Green Farmers Market 9am-1pm 211 N Main St.

Bowling Green Farmers Market 9am-1pm 211 N Main St.

VA Hard Cider Festival. FXBG Fairgrounds, 11a-4p

Pizza Palooza @ Market Square, 5-9p a big party in downtown pizza, beer,& more

FXBG Pet Show family-fun event for pet owners, lovers & enthusiasts vendors that represent all aspects of the pet world FXBG Expo Center 10a-5p. Show thru Sunday Oktoberfest @Adventure Brewing Perchwood A fun day filled with live music, food, and of course beer! 12-10p

Riverfest an annual crab feast fundraiser hosted by Friends of the Rappahannock FXBG City Dock 3-7p

Live Music @The Rec Center, Varia; Watersdeep; If Not For Me, 6p

Fireworks Celebration Salem Fields Comunity Church food trucks, live music, inflatables, outdoor games , 4:30-9:30p 11120 Gordon Rd

Sunday September 19

Sunday September 26

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

Woodland Hike at Gerri Melchers Home & Studio, Conducted by Virginia Master Naturalists, informative walks cover a mile of trails in woodlands and fields and also touch onthe historic ruins of Belmont's past. 2-3pm. meet outside the Visitor Center. Masks are required.

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

Wednesday September 22

Wind Down Wednesday Live Concert Series, 6-8pm Memorial Park, 1401 Kenmore Avenue Darcy Dawn..Free Bring a chair or blanket and your picnic. Or purchase dinner from one of our food vendors.

Thursday September 23

B101.5 8th Annual Care-a-thon benefit Children's National Hospital, Donate at B1015.com using the keyword "donate" or text "Buzzy" to 51555.

Friday September 24

Sunken Well Tavern Sunday Brunch, 720 Littlepage til 1p

Bluegrass on the Patio, Sunken Well Tavern 6-8pm FredNats Concert Series, The Beach Boys at FredNats Ballpark. This will be the 4th time that the Beach Boys have performed in Fredericksburg in recent years, making them a local fan favorite. For ticket sales, seating chart and all other information regarding the 2021 FredNats Concert Series, head to FredNatsConcerts.com.

B101.5 Annual Care-a-thon to benefit Children's National Hospital, Donate at B1015.com using the keyword "donate" or text "Buzzy" to 51555.

Tuesday September 28

Oktoberfest @the Alpine Chef Restaurant on parking lot on the 200 block of Lafayette.

Wind Down Wednesday Live Concert Series, 6:00pm - 8:00pm Memorial Park, 1401 Kenmore Avenue Hazel Run..Free. Bring a chair or blanket and your picnic. Or purchase dinner from one of our food vendors.

Parking available at First Christian Church on Washington Avenue. For more information please call 540-372-1086 or visit Parks.Fxbg.com.

Live Music, Carbon Leaf @ The Silk Mill, 1707 Princess Anne St, 7p Live Music @Adventure Brewing Eagle Village, DaBaldo, 7-9p. Acoustic original and cover tunes from Will DaBaldo

Saturday September 25

'A Celebration of the Arts', preesented by Dance Matrix, a taste of the vibrant arts groups and artists in the area. Old Mill Park 10am to 8pm full schedule of events:: dancematrixcompany.com/2021Festival Exposure Unlimited 35th Anniversary Exhibit begins, FCCA 813 Sophia St. Show runs thru Oct. 29 Oktoberfest @the Alpine Chef Restaurant 200 block of Lafayette.

FB @ FABeerTrail

Live Music @The Rec Center, Moonlight, 8p

Live Music @The Rec Center, Captain Ambivalent, 7p

Wednesday September 29

Thursday September 30

The Original Sewing & Quilt Expo You will have three days to shop with your favorite boutiques and manufacturers for new fabrics, patterns and products. Plus, we'll have classes. FXBG Expo Center 10a-5p

If you are reading this 290th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 25th year of continuous publication!

List your events email frntprch@aol.com: subject Calendar Deadline for October 2021 issue is September 20th.

Saturdays 7am-2 2pm Rain/Shine @Hurkamp Park front porch fredericksburg

September 2021

17

history’s stories

Mary Washington

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

She would often be seen walking over the property. She had a cluster of rocks that was very secluded where she would meditate and read. Prior to her death in 1789 George came to the home prior to his inauguration. Lafayette, Jefferson, and Marshall were visitors to her home.

In 1891 the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities purchased the home. It was to be taken apart and transported to the Chicago World's Fair for one of the main displays.

This started a movement within Fredericksburg to manage the Historic Resources within the city.

Upon her death in 1789 Mary Washington was buried on the place that she had selected for her grave. She had mediated and rested many times at the very location. On May 7, 1833 the Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge along with President Andrew Jackson laid a corner stone for a monument to Mary Washington. The monument was to be paid for by Silas Burrows of New York.

The monument was half completed position for 60 years due to the bankruptcy of Mr. Burrows.

It was not until 1889 on the centennial of the death of Mary Washington that a group of local ladies started a movement to complete the monument that would need to be rebuilt from the foundation up. The project would take until May 10, 1894 when the dedication of the finished Mary Washington monument would be completed.

Today the Mary Washington House and the Mary Washington Monument are on all the tours of Historic Fredericksburg.

Dedicated to: Frank Jett, Joe Van Devender, Linwood Groves, & Frank Keel Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Historian

September 2021

500 block of princess anne st.

By Wendy Migdal

On the corner of Charles and Lewis Streets stands the Home of Mary Washington, better know as the mother of George Washington. They were living at Ferry Farm when Augustine died in 1743 at the age of 48. Young George was only 11 years of age and this mother managed the farm until George became of age. She continued to live on the property until Colonel Washington purchased a home for her in Fredericksburg when she was 64. George would often visit his mother when he came to Fredericksburg, to attend the Masonic Lodge where he became a Mason. Today the Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge #4 is known as "Washington's Mother Lodge".

A fact that is little know is that Augustine Washington had 8 children by two separate wives. He had Butler, Lawrence, Augustine, and Jane by Jane Butler. With Mary Ball he had George Betty, Samuel, and John.

Mary enjoyed living in her Fredericksburg home because she was close to her daughter Betty Washington Lewis, that lived in the Kenmore Plantation. Her son Charles Washington owned in a town home in Fredericksburg.

18

OUR HERITAGE

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Capturing a section of Princess Anne Street with the McGuire Hotel & Shiloh Baptist Church (New Site), mid-2 20th Century/no date, HFFI Archives (2014-0 01-0 06-0 011-0 016) If you haven't seen the city's new wayside panels near the Princess Anne Street post office, be sure to check them out on your next visit.

One commemorates the Freedom Riders' first stop in 1961 after they left Washington, D.C., in a courageous attempt to integrate bus stations. The other focuses on the two Black-owned hotels on Princess Anne Street, the McGuire and the Rappahannock, and the other businesses located nearby.

For several decades in the mid20th century, the 500 block of Princess Anne was a thriving Black business district.

Shiloh Baptist Church (New Site) was built in 1890, and in 1904 some of the congregation moved a hundred yards or so to the 300 block of Wolfe Street to start Mount Zion Baptist Church. The 300 block had long been a residential enclave for the city's African American residents and that, together with the nearby churches, was likely a reason for the growth of Black-owned businesses nearby.

Next to Shiloh Baptist Church (New Site) was the McGuire Hotel, built by Dr. Webster Harris in 1924. Dr. Harris's dentistry office was located in the hotel, as were several other businesses, including a restaurant and a beauty parlor. Tate's Drug Store was also on that side of the block, where Maurice Tate would sometimes help people who couldn't afford their medicine. There were several barbershops, a newsstand, and two "beer gardens," the Little Harlem and the Paris Inn on the corner of Princess Anne and Lafayette Boulevard. The Paris Inn was a hive of activity, especially during the war years when servicemen would come from both Quantico and Fort A.P. Hill on the weekends. Around the other side of the

Paris Inn on Lafayette Boulevard was a taxi stand owned by "Sox" Richardson, in a little building that had once been used by General Burnside in the Civil War. On the other side of the street was the Rappahannock Hotel, which predated the McGuire by about 20 years.

The Rappahannock Hotel was built by the Brown family, who lived on site and also owned Brown's Funeral Home next door.

Mildred Brown Queen was a leading civil rights activist in the 1950s and '60s, and led many meetings at Shiloh New Site.

Today, the building on the corner of Princess Anne and Wolfe Streets is a real estate office, but a quick glance reveals that the building was creatively adapted from a service station-Thornton's Service Station, another Black-owned business.

Also in the 500 block in the 1950s were a record shop and a soda fountain owned by Charles "Sonny" Dyson, Fredericksburg's first Black policeman, who was killed in combat in Vietnam in 1966.

The 600 block of Princess Anne consisted mostly of car dealerships, the bus station, and a few residences, but one structure should be mentioned. The building that was occupied by Dr. Philip Wyatt--a dentist, president of the local NAACP, and civil rights activist--was moved to Charlotte Street to make way for the current post office. Though only a few of these buildings still exist, memories remain strong for many residents.

Wendy Migdal is a freelance writer in Fredericksburg

What’s in a Time Capsule? the turning basin By jon gerlach intricate route of commerce, controlled by the Rappahannock Canal Company, utilized narrow flat-bottomed boats, called "bateaux", similar to a barge, to haul cargo up and down the river. At least 25 such boats, some of which were up to 65 feet long and almost ten feet wide, plied the canal system for several years.

Some places in town are buried, unseen and all but forgotten. One such place is just a hop, skip and a jump from the Canal Trail. It's a veritable time capsule underneath a neighborhood, waiting for some future archaeologist to reveal. So what is this place?

It's somewhere under the yards of the houses on the odd-n numbered side of the 1500 block of Prince Edward Street, right behind the Dorothy Hart Community Center. This is the site of the Turning

Basin, a key part of the canal system of the 1840-50s. It may very well contain the remains of canal boats nearly 200 years old! Not to be confused with a Viking ship burial, but fascinating in its own right.

The story begins with the Rappahannock River. Starting in 1829, construction began on an extensive system of river locks, canals, crib dams, and ponds that, by 1849, would stretch from Fredericksburg toward the agricultural region around Fauquier County. This

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

Contact us about donating collections of documents and photographs

Bateaux, capable of hauling many tons of cargo, were slowly propelled by brute force (especially going upriver!): as men maneuvered long oars and poles (unlike the towpath system used along the C&O Canal). Going downriver, upon reaching Fredericksburg, the boats needed a place to turn around for the return trip.

Called a "turning basin", this was a wide manmade pond, with wharves along the edges, where bulk cargo from upriver mostly merchandise, timer, lumber and farm products - was offloaded. And here, the emptied boats were loaded with cargo for the laborious trip upriver: hauling mostly merchandise, plus bricks, guano, lime and yes, good ole whiskey. It must have been a busy place.

In use as a transportation route for only a few years, the canal system was made obsolete by improved roads in Loudoun and Fauquier Counties, and the arrival of the railroad. The Rappahannock Canal Company was shuttered for unpaid debts in 1853, and subsequent ventures to rehabilitate the system proved futile.

Soon, the canal here in town was repurposed and improved by the Fredericksburg Water Power Company, which led to new mills being constructed in the upper end of town, and for decades the canal provided water power to local industry. At Fall Hill Avenue, the canal was diverted away from the Turning Basin, which was filled-in by the late 1920s and built over.

I first learned of the Turning Basin from Bill Trout, who specializes in canal studies, in early 2017 during the stakeholder input for the City's new Archaeology Ordinance. Bill hoped that if any buildings with deep foundations were built there, archaeologists could monitor the work. Enacted in 2021, the ordinance provides a path for that to actually happen someday.

No archaeology has ever occurred there, and who knows what lies beneath this neighborhood? One turning basin in Richmond contained the remains of at least 100 sunken vessels!

The history of canals in Virginia is brief, but fascinating. Today, "canal buffs" are alive and well. Check out the Virginia Canals & Navigations Society, whose motto is to "Preserve, Enhance & Explore": www.vacanals.org/. You can see our Turning Basin on Gray's 1878 Map of F r e d e r i c k s b u r g : http://resources.umwhisp.org/Fredericksb urg/plats/graysmap1878.jpg. Also look at the Rappahannock River Water Trail Guide published by Friends of the Rappahannock - it maps the locks found upriver that you can still explore today.

So … what's in a Time Capsule?

Here, maybe the buried remains of sunken boats, right below our feet.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach chairs the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg. Jon is a candidate for City Council, Ward 2 in the Nov. 2021 election.

Image from c. 1865 Sketch of Bateaux, Richmond, VA by J.R. Hamilton (Library of Congress)

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Mental Health abuse related trauma

By Kristin herman While trauma is a terrible thing for someone to go through, that doesn't mean that you have to live with it for the rest of your life. Recovering from abuserelated trauma can be incredibly challenging, but it is possible. Here are six tips you can do to help you in the healing process.

1. Recognize the Effects of Trauma Many effects of trauma stem from abuse. Common effects include: Trouble sleeping, Panic attacks and anxiety, Substance use, Eating disorders, Flashbacks of sexual/physical violence, Feelings of self-hate and low self-esteem, Fearing people and relationships, Suicidal thoughts If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to address your trauma and seek professional help.

2. Understand the Importance of Healing It's important to know that healing is key to overcoming trauma.

Healing is different for everyone, but for any person, requires the intention to release past traumas and recover. This intention can: Allows survivors to focus on themselves. Negative thoughts and feelings can be overwhelming at times. But with healing, survivors can take their attention away from the negativity and focus on what their needs are.

Allows survivors to develop closer relationships with other people. It's important to allow your friends and family to serve as your support system as you take part in the healing process.

Helps survivors relieve their pain by finding different avenues to cope, such as taking up a new hobby, returning to once-abandoned hobbies, getting out more, etc.

Helps survivors experience their feelings again after releasing all the emotion trapped within from past traumatic events.

3. Embrace Positive Affirmations Refocusing the subconscious mind starts with "forcing" positivity. The negativity - or the inner critic - can stir self-sabotage and hold you back from embracing positive things.

Refocus the inner critical voice by putting in place a system of positive affirmations that you can use daily.

Positive affirmations can interrupt those disruptive and unwelcome thoughts and turn them into something better.

Here are some positive affirmations that you can try: "I love myself., "I am worthy.", "I am beautiful."

4. Exercise You can also heal the mind through your body. Find at least one form of exercise that you can easily get into that helps you release the grief, rage and

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hurt that can stem from the aftermath of abuse and trauma.

Here are some great exercises to get into: Kickboxing, Yoga, Dance cardio, Running The best part is that while you're exercising, you can listen to empowering music or positive affirmations. Just remember: Exercise is supposed to be beneficial, not self-destructing.

5. Embrace Creativity Art therapy has proven to help survivors of PTSD by having them create and integrate. In 2018, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) had conducted a study where they had a group of participants take part in eight 75-minute sessions, where they were told to create artwork based on a certain theme (i.e., nature, religion, colors).

Through this form of art therapy, NCBI reported that most participants in the study "showed regression in their drawings of the trauma or the aftermath."

As a result, creating something can help you to express yourself in a transformative way, thus helping you release the trauma and its negative effects on you.

Here are some great activities that you can do as part of art therapy: Writing, Drawing, Painting, Playing and or writing music, Arts and crafts By creating something, you have the option of sharing it with the world or saving it as a reminder that you can overcome anything in life.

6. Don't Be Afraid to Seek Help Finally, ask for help. It doesn't make you helpless or powerless. It shows how brave you are to seek help and be open to receiving it. Find a validating mental health professional who specializes in trauma and understands the symptoms.

You can also find a support group of fellow survivors who understand you. If you need more support you can Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline toll free at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or chat live online at www.thehotline.org.

Although the road to recovery is rarely short or easy, it's always worth the effort. Plus, there's no time limit to learn and heal; just take one small step at a time.

Kristin Herman is a writer and editor at Top Canadian Writers andAcademized review.

To learn more NAMI programs, visit Website namirapp.com

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

Have You Tried Acupuncture?

It’s All Energy radiant energy by christina ferber

Call Now to Schedule 540.847.6985 AcupunctureFredericksburg.com

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

We are born with unique configurations that can advise us, guide us, help us grow to our highest potential Consultations by Dianne Bachman 540.845.7622 dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com diannebachman.com

Donate to a Cancer Organization

ble at Availa n.com Amazo

Though I have written about an energy system called the Radiant Circuits a few times before, I cannot bring them up too many times, especially in this day and age. The Radiant Circuit energy system consists of energy pathways in the body that help us to experience strength, vitality, and exhilaration.

When we strengthen this system, we ignite joy, gratitude, and love, and working with them on a regular basis can help create new habits that keep us in a healthy and happy place.

There are many ways to activate these energies that were first described thousands of years ago in Traditional Chinese Medicine texts. Being in gratitude, smiling, laughing, walking in nature, or listening to music naturally activates them, but there are also some Eden Energy Medicine exercises that can help as well.

A great first step in activating the Radiant Circuits is to do a combination of exercises called the Blow Out, Zip Up, and Hook Up. To begin, bring your arms to either side of your body and make fists, imagining that all your frustrations and negative feelings are in your hands. On an inhale, bring your arms above your head, and on an exhale, bring them down quickly and open your fists, either using the "shhh" sound or the name of what is upsetting you. Repeat three times and on the last movement, bring your hands down slowly and deliberately and let it all go. To Zip Up, place both hands over your pubic bone, and trace straight up the center of the front of your body to your bottom lip. Then, imagine a lock and key, and lock the meridian you just traced (Central Meridian) at your bottom lip. For the last exercise in the combination, The Hook Up, place one finger in your belly button and the other between your eyebrows on the bridge of your nose, push in and pull both points up, and take a few deep breaths.

The Nine Hearts exercise is another technique to help activate our Radiant Circuits and help us to tap into our natural state of joy. Start by tracing three hearts around your face starting at your forehead. Next, trace three hearts starting at the middle of your chest and down to your pubic bone. Lastly, trace three big hearts over your head and down to your thighs or even to your feet. Be sure to breathe and not get too hung up on the specifics of this exercise.

Heaven Rushing In helps us tap into the bigger picture and bring more inspiration into our lives. Place your hands on your thighs and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself. Then on an inhale, raise your hands to your sides and over your head, touching your hands above it. On an exhale, bring them down to a prayer position in front of your chest.

On the next deep breath, open them wide to the sky above your head and stay there as long as you need to. When you are ready, bring your hands to your heart and breathe a few times feeling a sense of peace, calm, and gratitude.

For videos of these exercises and even more to help stimulate your joy and activate the Radiant Circuits, visit www.itsallenergywellness.com.

Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner

donatelifevirginia.org

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Emancipated Patients TO SCREEN OR NOT TO SCREEN

By Patrick Neustatter, MD Those caring people at the "scanin-a-van" company, Life Line, have invited me once again, to get tested. Tested so I should be "aware of unrecognized and potential health problems."

Get an ultrasound of my carotid arteries and detect a potential stroke. Of my abdominal aorta to find an aneurism before it explodes. Check my leg arteries.

Make sure my heart isn't fibrillating.

So nice that they care.

Not for Screening I am of course being facetious.

Although these are all valuable tests in people who you have reason to suspect are developing vascular or heart disease, because of risk factors or symptoms, they are not appropriate for what Life Line is touting. For screening.

Screening means testing normal populations and is a different ball game.

With any test it's a case of weighing the risks against the benefits. But if you're testing normal people, you've got to have a very safe test.

Life Line isn't the only entrepreneur doing this. There are several companies that set up their "scan-in-avan" trailer in some local church, shopping mall, hotel, or hospital parking lot, and try to persuade you, even if you have no reason to suspect vascular disease, to fork over your hard earned dosh to get these tests - or any one of a slew of other tests they offer -at what they say is a knock down price.

Their literature and websites have heartwarming anecdotal testimonials from people claiming "Life Line saved my life" etc. But what they don't tell you is that there are no clinical trials to support the merit of doing this as a screening service. And the USPSTF says don't do it.

US The USPSTF the Preventative Services Task Force - is a very useful, independent body of specialists who review all the data on a host of treatments and tests and allocate a score depending how good they conclude they are. They rate them from A through D, or I for "insufficient evidence."

For example, they recommend against screening for carotid artery stenosis (CAS) in the general population.

And give it a D rating.

"Unfortunately, screening for CAS in adults without symptoms does more harm than good, and we continue to recommend against it" notes Michael J. Barry, Director of the Informed Medical Decisions Program in the Health Decision Sciences Center at Massachusetts General Hospital and member of the USPSTF. Where's The Harm?

You may wonder

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how

an

ultrasound of the carotid arteries or the abdominal aorta, where you're using sound waves, and a probe you just place against the skin, can do harm.

But any test has it's down side.

All those scopes and catheters that doctors like to stick in your throat, your bladder, your vagina, up your butt, in your coronary arteries, can occasionally cause damage. But the real danger is more subtle. It's when the test misleads you.

Every test has a false negative rate - the number of times the test fails to detect some pathology that is actually there. Or a false positives rate, meaning it suggests there's some abnormality when there really isn't.

False negative lulls you into a false sense of security, and some cancer, or critical disease of the artery for example goes undetected. A false positive is liable to lead to all sorts of unnecessary tests or treatments - which can be dangerous in themselves, can lead to more invasive treatment like surgery, not to say are expensive and cause a lot of anxiety.

This is just one part of an epidemic of unnecessary tests and treatments. "Some experts estimate that at least $200 billion is wasted annually on excessive testing and treatment" says Healthcare Finance News. And "this overly aggressive care also can harm patients, generating mistakes and injuries believed to cause 30,000 deaths each year."

This is a business that plays upon people's fears and anxieties about their health and to my mind is devious - which is what disturbs me about finding the Mary Washington Healthcare website says they are working with Life Line "to make sure this community can get affordable cardiovascular screenings" and the solicitations come with the MWHC logo.

A Fundamental Question With this inappropriate screening in particular, but in many other places in the healthcare industry, we see "product" being promoted. Corporations whose interest is to make money rather than providing good quality, affordable healthcare, are building or taking over many hospitals, medical groups, urgent cares, surgery centers - anything that is profitable.

It is a commonly touted statistic that the US spends about twice as much per-capita as equivalent countries that don't have for profit healthcare (and doesn't have universal healthcare, and the overall quality is lower).

So, is it OK to treat healthcare as a consumer product? Or is healthcare fundamentally a different animal?

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

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B101.5's Care-A-Thon Your Health Matters Hope & Care for Aubrey, Close to Home

Christine Thompson, DC

By Mandy Smith Neonatologists at the hospital where Amber gave birth said they had done all they could for her daughter, Aubrey. She was a month old and born with severe short bowel syndrome. Her small intestine was unable to absorb enough nutrition from food. Aubrey also had stage-3 liver disease.

Aubrey's parents refused to give up. Gastroenterologist Dr. Clarivet Torres at Children's National Hospital offered hope. "We went from being told, 'sorry there's nothing else we can do,' to Dr. Torres saying, 'we have a program designed for your daughter, let us help,'" Amber recalls. This fall, Aubrey starts third grade at her school in Fredericksburg.

Aubrey and her family faced many challenges during the last eight years - seizures, hospitalizations, surgeries and infections. "We've cried a river of tears," says Amber, "but Aubrey is still here and fighting." Care from our Intestinal Rehabilitation Program plus encouragement from everyone on Aubrey's team helped the family through very hard times, Amber says. "Gestures of kindness, large and small, at Children's National have meant the world to us," Amber says."Thanks to everyone there, Aubrey is busy living her life."

Support from the Fredericksburg community during B101.5's annual CareA-T Thon provides families in the area to better access to this convenient, familyfocused, world-class care.

Caring for More Children, Closer to Home Generous B101.5 listeners helped launch our Fredericksburg location, conveniently located on the campus of Mary Washington Healthcare, in 2020.

This location includes experts in pediatric specialties such as: Cardiology, in office Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program, in office Endocrinology, in office and via telehealth

A fertility plan

Neurology, in office and via telehealth Orthopaedics, in office Physical Therapy, in office Genetics, via telehealth Psychology, via telehealth Pulmonary Medicine, via telehealth Gastroenterology, in office starting late summer/fall 2021 Hematology/Infusion, in office starting late summer/fall 2021 Children's National plans to offer in-person neurosurgery care in future. Additionally, our neonatologists and pediatricians care for patients at Mary Washington Hospital and Stafford Hospital on the pediatric floors and in the neonatal intensive care units.

"You always want your kids to be healthy and happy," says Marketing Director, Mandy Smith. "But, if or when something happens, it is so comforting to know we have Children's National Hospital in our backyard. That's why every year, the team at B101.5 is proud to raise money to support this expert care. Our annual Care-A-Thon has helped to fund more research, more technology and more locations for care."

B101.5's 8th annual Care-A A-T Thon will take place Thursday, Sept. 23 and Friday, Sept. 24. Donate at B1015.com using the keyword "donate" or text "Buzzy" to 51555. If you have questions or want to get involved, please email Mandy@wbqb.com.

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

Did you know that only 60% of couples will conceive naturally without medical assistance within the first 6 months of trying? This means that one in every eight couples struggle with infertility issues - or a whopping 17.4 million women in the US alone.

Infertility is outlined as the decreased ability, or complete inability, of a couple to conceive a child, more specifically - failure to conceive after a year of regular intercourse without protection.

There are many different causes of infertility, and as such, it can be difficult at first to determine a suitable course of treatment Strong links have been found between the rise of infertility in women of childbearing age with the increasing prevalence of other health complications, such as diabetes and obesity. At the very least, the hormonal imbalances associated with these diseases are undoubtedly a contributing factor to infertility issues.

How can Functional Medicine Help?

This is where functional medicine can assist. As functional healthcare focuses on the individual as a whole, it takes into account elements of one's lifestyle that may be contributing to their health issues. This means not just aiming to reverse the physical symptoms, but addressing the source of the problem - for GOOD! Considering infertility, not as an 'illness' but an imbalance in some area of physical health, is a much more effective way to treat it. Functional medicine's goal is to help the body return to its optimized state of function.

We are so motivated to help our community understand and identify what is causing their individual health complications. As no one person is the same, we are aware that there is no 'one size fits all' treatment when it comes to increasing fertility.

Functional medicine techniques for infertility have proven successful in many cases, however, the broad spectrum of infertility causes means that not every patient will experience immediate results.

Much of this variable relies on the functional health awareness and 'literacy' of the parents-to-be in question.

Our hope is to enable all patients to become 'literate' and confident in functional health, so as to maximize their chances of increasing fertility and successfully conceiving.

Vitamins, such as zinc, iron, and folic acid, are notoriously beneficial for promoting proper hormone function and in turn, improves fertility. Lentils, in particular, are a great source of many of the essential vitamins necessary for reproduction.

The following recipe is a quick and easy meal to help boost your fertility levels: Old-F Fashioned Lentil Soup 1 cup dried brown lentils 1/2 onion, diced 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 cup carrots, diced 1/2 cup celery, leaves included, finely chopped 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 tsp pink or sea salt Cover lentils with water and bring to a boil. Lower heat to simmer and add all remaining ingredients.

Cover pot and cook for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are soft.

Enjoy!

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

September 23-24 Donate @ B101.5.com

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Art in Burg Art Galleries in September

“Outa Here”, Carol Waite @B rush Strokes Gallery “Animal Antics” Brush Strokes Gallery Opening September 3, 5-9 9pm 824 Caroline St. Thursday- Sun 11am - 5 pm. & By Appointment Throughout September, Brush Strokes Gallery invites all to experience their fascinating and fun Animal Antics Exhibit. Perhaps it's because our furry and feathered friends seem to have the most in common with us that images of them intrigue us, attract our interest, and inspire artists' creations that seem to depict our own emotions and attitudes, sometimes with a touch of humor.

Among those featured in September's display are the seemingly amused bovines in Bev Toves' painting "Stalling Around," the frolicking puffins in Carol Waite's "Outa Here" delightful Sumie painting, and the canine comfort of Denise Denecke's "A Face to Love" portrait of a bloodhound that seems to reflect a bevy of life's experiences. In addition, Danette Taylor's "Patriotic Bird" incorporates the confidence and courage of our nation's hallmark red, white, and blue. Hailey Light's "Hawksbill on the Reef" seems to move through the water before our eyes in a spirit of exploration, while Penny A Parrish's "Cat and Cocktails" may reflect the photographer's imaginative musings.

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Visitors to the gallery will also experience the imaginationsparking quality of Marianna Smith's illustrations and paintings in her image of a yawning mouse that may entice viewers to create a story line in their own minds. In addition, Nancy Williams' dreamlike watercolor "Surveying the River" convincingly conveys a heron's authority over its river domain. Meanwhile, Carol Haynes' "Doggie Bag" charcoal drawing of the feisty chihuahua, Kokopelli, hitching a ride in its owner's handbag and Collette Caprara's oil painting, "Just Curious," in which a shy small bear seems to be as interested in his viewers as they are in him, add an element of humor to the display. ~Collette Caprara

“A Helping Hand” Works by Sheila Jones Opening Reception, First Friday Sept 3, Opening, , 6-9 9p Art First, 824 Caroline ST THursday-S Sunday, 11a-5 5p

Shelia Jones show "A Helping Hand" is a mixture of new and old photography pieces of peaceful and calming images. Most are from the Fredericksburg area. The proceeds from this show, like her other shows will be donated to Law Enforcement United, A group of Law Enforcement, Survivors and Civilian supporters who have a mission to honor the fallen and remember the survivors by supporting Concerns of Police Survivors ( C.O.P.S.) and the Officer Down Memorial Page (www.ODMP.org). LEU is a 100% volunteer organization who board, staff and members receive no salaries. She is now serving as President of the Virginia Division of LEU. S h e became interested “Pen10”, Ron Rosiello, @Artful Dimensions in photography as she became closer to retirement after “Write in Style” taking classes in forensic Works by Ron Rosiello photography. She and her husband Opening Reception , 5-8 8p, Keith live in Spotsylvania and have Artful Dimensions, 923 Caroline St two sons and three grandchildren. She has served in local Law enforcement Ron Rosiello thinks of his pens as for 37 years. artistic creations that can be appreciated ~Lisa Gillen on a daily basis. Using a combination of LibertyTown Arts Workshop domestic and exotic hardwoods and burls, Workshops, Sales, Exhibits as well as natural and manmade materials, 916 Liberty St he creates pens in traditional, retro, and Mon-S Sat, 10-8 8, Sun 10-6 6 modern styles. The beauty of these natural woods and burls, many of which ~ D.D.Lecky are resin-casted in unique designs, colors, Canal Quarter Arts and finishes, is stunning. In addition, Ron 1517 Princess Anne Street Darbytown has also created pens to honor our military service members, veterans, and Darbytown Art Studio first responders. Says Ron, "I always say, 241 Charles Street life is too short to own an ugly pen!" ~Sally Cooney Anderson ~Jeannie Ellis

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“A Face to Love”, Denise Denecke @Brush Strokes Gallery The Artists' Alliance 100 Taylor St, Suite 101 Colonial Beach website artgallerycolonialbeach.com, Facebook :cbartistsalliance Our artists show a terrific array of paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture, furniture, jewelry, and basketry. ~ Rob Rudick

"Jellyfish ", Sheila Jones, @Art First

Artist Choice Regional Exhibit in Frederick Gallery “Lasting Illure of Painting II Members Gallery FCCA 813 Sophia ST Th-F Fri, 12-4 4p; Sat 11-4 4, Sun, 1-4 4p ~Valerie Lecea

One More Muse...

In market square

By Collette Caprara

“The Banyan Tree of the Americas”, a Journey in Cultural Ties Semilla Cultural events to highlight PuertoRican musical and dance genre, Bomba and its African roots September 18th, Fredericksburg Market Square Sunday September 19th at DanceFXBG October 2nd, University of Mary Washington Sunday October 3, University of Mary Washington

Come See What We Have On the Walls for You!

Hickman Brothers I'd like to add one more "note" to my tally of examples of artists in all fields who so generously offered the delight of their talents to all who passed through Market Square during the months when formal entertainment programs were on hiatus.

Just last week, the delightful, uplifting melodies of two marimbas, played by the Hickman Brothers, floated through the site and even traveled down Caroline Street and Princess Anne Street, bringing smiles to the faces of enchanted pedestrians.

Steve Hickman--a national and state champion in Scottish Fiddling and Old Time Fiddle and former instructor at Pickers' Supply-explained that the marimbas were on loan from his daughters Tara and Maren, who once played periodically with their mom DeLaura throughout the streets of the Burg.

Hats off to the "brothers" and their enchanting expression of the Muse of Market Square and the gifts it inspires so many to share with all! ~ Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist.

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties “Summer Favorite” Beverley Coates

“Shelter From The Storm” Lynn Abbott

“A Widewater Shore”, Penny A Parrish

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

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

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The Bowling Green Scene Happening Hamlet in the Heart of Caroline County

By amy bayne four years ago to raise our family here. I love LA, but I really loved my childhood.

Krista and I wanted that for our kids, and we wanted them to grow up here."

The Heist Offers "Music, Food, Spirits, and Community"

opening The Heist with a handful of partners.

Bowling Green has most of the amenities one would want in a small town.

Coming this month, it will also have a dedicated music venue in the renovated bank building on Main Street. Musician and Bowling Green native Jason Manns is

Manns says, "I feel like my history is forever entwined with Bowling Green. I love this town. My grandfather moved here to raise his family, my dad raised us here, and I couldn't be happier that we moved back home (from Los Angeles)

Q: How did your vision for the old bank building come about?

“That's a good question. It's tough to know if I had the whole vision from the start or if it was in stages. I have wanted to put something like this in Bowling Green since we moved back but couldn't find the right fit. Virginia is unique in its liquor laws, so you can't really open just a "music venue" per se. It needs to also be a restaurant, or a brewery, or a winery... all of which we investigated. Once The Corner Store opened and we saw how amazing the food was, we were really excited for this partnership.”

Q: Tell me a little bit about your partners.

It's been a family project from the beginning. My dad, Mike Manns, and I partnered on the renovation of the building. The building consists of an old portion, built over a hundred years ago, and an addition which was built in the '60s. Prior to The Heist, we outfitted the newer portion of the building with a kitchen and retail area for The Corner Store, which is serving amazing food. My wife Krista and our manager Alicia Vossberg have been the brains behind the design elements, and Alicia has been heading up the outfitting and equipping of the bar because she owned a bar in Denver for years. Rounding out the team has been Ed Webb, our contractor, and we even roped my brother-in-law, David Miller, in from North Carolina to help with some of the construction. Like I said, a family affair!

Q: What has been your favorite part of the rebuild?

“This part right now is my favorite. It has all been amazing and I've learned so much. At this moment though, the hardest structural elements have been completed, the space looks amazing. We're outfitting the facility with great sound and lighting, and we'll also be a streaming venue, so you'll be able to enjoy the shows from the comfort of your own home if you'd like to! It feels like an awesome little music venue.”

Q: What are your hopes for The Heist as an addition to Bowling Green?

“Our sincere goal is to enhance the town with food, drinks and entertainment without changing anything. I love Bowling Green and I

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want it to stay cute and quiet... most of the time. But we are very much looking forward to providing an outlet for entertainment that folks don't have to drive 30 minutes for, or at least that Bowling Green folks don't have to drive for. Fredericksburg is great, and so is Richmond. They are not too far away, but to grab a beer or a glass of wine after work, eat some food, listen to some music and then walk home? That seems like the dream to me!”

Jason Manns says The Heist will open with a few soft opening events in September and then move to a Friday/Saturday schedule. He adds, "The Heist will be an intimate venue with amazing food and drinks in a charming little town."

You can follow The Heist on Instagram or Facebook for updates @theheistbg.

Other Events in Bowling Green in September Bowling Green Farmer's Market Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., North Main Street Flea Market - September 11th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Chase Street and North Main Ladies Night Out - September 17th, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Dainty Chic Roadside Stand, 116 Chase Street Small Town Friday Nights September 17th, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Participating businesses throughout town Free-S Style Fridays - Fridays 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., $10, The Painted Horse Gallery, Main Street, Studio time at the gallery among artists. Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.com Drab to Fab Chair Rehab Class September 4th and 11th, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., $125, The Painted Horse Gallery, Main Street, Two-part class will teach you how to refinish/rehab a chair. Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.com Make and Take Macrame Earrings - September 17th, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., $35, The Painted Horse Gallery, Main Street.

Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.com Sip and Paint: Acrylics with Palette Knives - September 18th, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., $45, The Painted Horse Gallery, Main Street. All supplies included. Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.com Terrarium Bar - September 25th, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., $35, The Painted Horse Gallery, Main Street. Register online at www.thepaintedhorse.com Amy Bayne is an educator, writer, and artist who lives in Bowling Green, VA.

SpotLight Jane McDonald Yuan by amy umble the history of behavioral healthcare and disability services in Virginia.

Over the past five years, RACSB has expanded Medication Assisted Treatment services and peer support services, and has expanded permanent supportive housing services for adults with serious mental illness.

In addition, the agency continues to respond to the changing state requirements for the delivery of services for people with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and mental health concerns, while balancing the needs of the region. RACSB's Prevention Services have also been a leader in education around suicide prevention, opioid use disorder, Mental Health First Aid, and impacts of adverse childhood experiences.

The global pandemic that hit in late 2019 added more hurdles to Executive Director Jane McDonald Yaun visited overcome. "While it is a challenge 24-h hour programs to deliver donuts from Paul's to navigate a constantly changing Bakery. These programs help some of the most landscape and to respond to a vulnerable residents of our community. pandemic, our work is essential", Yaun said. "The need for behavioral health and developmental services in our community continues to grow CSB Director Announces Retirement exponentially during this time".

Rappahannock Area Community Yaun plans to remain active in Services Board announces that its executive director will retire on June 30, the community after her retirement. She serves on several boards and committees 2022. and hopes to continue this work.

Jane McDonald Yaun started The agency's Board of Directors working as a residential counselor at RACSB in 1988. In addition to serving in formed a search committee to find and different capacities within RACSB, Yaun screen candidates for the executive has also worked at Snowden at director position.The committee hopes to Fredericksburg and for the Department of have a candidate announced in early Behavioral Health and Developmental 2022.

Services. She has led Rappahannock Area Founded in 1970, the Rappahannock Community Services Board since 2017.

Area Community Services Board (RACSB) provides public mental health, "It has been challenging and developmental disability, substance abuse rewarding to serve as Executive Director and prevention/early intervention of Rappahannock Area Community services to the residents of the City of Services Board," Yaun said. "I have been Fredericksburg and the counties of fortunate to work with many dedicated, Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania and compassionate people over the years.

Stafford. To learn more, visit From dedicated staff to the individuals www.rappahannockareacsb.org. and families who come to RACSB for services, I am inspired daily by their strength and resilience."

Amy Umble is the Communicaations Coordinator for RACSB Yaun has led the agency through some of the most tumultuous changes in

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Companions fall into your dog’s heart health

by Gerri Reid dvm

We are all familiar with being told to give monthly heartworm prevention to our dogs. This pill is to prevent and protect your dog from heartworm disease. Each month, on a designated day, we give our dog(s) a chewable beef flavored pill. Some dogs think it is the best treat in the world! Do we even realize that that little pill is one of the most important pill/treat we will ever give our dog? But why?

First, what is heartworm disease?

Heartworm disease is a serious disease that affects the heart/lungs of canines. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause exercise intolerance, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and death.

The parasite will migrate to the right side of the heart where it will grow into an adult heartworm. The damage to the heart from these parasites can be fatal if left untreated. Virginia has a high population of mosquitoes therefore heartworm disease is frequently seen. Pets that are diagnosed with heartworm disease are those pets that are not receiving monthly heartworm prevention. This may be at the fault of the owner who either does not give monthly prevention or has just forgotten to give it.

I always tell my clients that it is cheaper and easier to prevent heartworm Heartworm disease than to treat it. disease is treatable but expensive. Based on your pet's health, your Veterinarian will determine if your pet can receive treatment. Treatment last for 3 months in which your pet will have to undergo 3 injections to kill the heartworms. Since these worms like to occupy the right side of the heart, during treatment your pet's activity will be restricted.

It will be suggested to keep your pet in a kennel during the entire treatment. It can be very stressful not only for clients but for

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the dog. But if these suggestions are followed, your pet can recover from heartworm treatment.

Prevention is key. I recommend to have your pet tested each year for heartworm disease as part of the Annual exam. Once the test results are negative, the next step is to give monthly heartworm prevention. Here are a few options: Heartgard is a chewable beef tablet that many dogs and clients loke it due to the ease of giving it. Not only does this chew prevent heartworm disease but it also acts as a monthly dewormer for common intestinal parasites.

The importance of this dual use is that many parasites your dog contracts can be transmitted to you. Another option is Proheart injection which is given every 6 months or 12 months. Proheart tends to be good for clients that just forget to give the pill or the pet does not like the chew.

Lastly, Revolution is a topical solution used for prevention of heartworm disease.

Consult with your Veterinarian to decide on which option is best for you and your pet.

In the past, dogs would frequently die from heartworm disease.

The advancements of Veterinary Medicine have allowed pets to receive preventative medication for heartworm disease as well as treatment. Each year you take your pet in for a check-up, don't skip having your pet tested for heartworm or to get heartworm prevention. It is an important piece of the puzzle to your pet's health and well-being. So…Have you given your pet heartworm prevention this month?

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

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THE POETRY MAN

Astrology & You it’s all about angles

By Frank Fratoe

William Street Café

By Dianne Bachman

In Memoriam: R ob Grogan

aspects, so here are the major aspects and how they figure into interpreting a chart: Conjunct (0 degrees): planets are next to each other. Sometimes this can indicate a blend of properties and attributes and at other times they can be a bit blind to each other.

.

Sitting outside at the table I sip slow from a coffee mug and watch every person go by, who march along haphazardly toward the tidal-river ahead as they search for something,

and I consider Matthew Arnold writing a poem at Dover Beach aware that faith had receded, so certain how he witnessed the tides-of-men rushing out beyond a land without belief, yet perhaps it will be found when passersby have stopped to rejoice our gift together, .and understand as they drink that years owe us the chance to lift a cup and be grateful.

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

A fundamental component of understanding astrology is the Ptolemaic angles the planets create with each other as they make their orbits. We call these angles 'aspects' and they are the way that planetary energies interact or relate to each other. There are major and minor

Sextile (60 degrees): this angle tends to activate, excite the planets and the flow is cooperative and easy.

Square (90 degrees): planetary energies conflict, bringing about tension that can produce growth over time.

Without tension there is little motivation for change!

Trine (120 degrees): flowing energy, cooperative, beneficial, though can create a sense of complacency due to the ease of interaction.

Opposition (180 degrees): planetary energies are polarized, so integrating these influences is the challenge.

Quincunx (150 degrees): this is considered a minor aspect, always look for them. They challenging, rigid. Tension is created pathway needs to be chosen to forward.

Note: but I are and a move

Within each aspect there is typically a number of degrees we call orbs.

Orbs are the wiggle room we give when considering the significance of an angle. I use mostly wide orbs in my practice (as much as 10 degrees), but other astrologers may use smaller ones. There are no fixed rules. Here is an example: Let's say we have Mars at 2 degrees Aries and Venus at 6 degrees Gemini. The distance between the planets is 64 degrees, so we would note a 4-degree orb.

The closer the orb, the greater the energy exchange tends to be.

120-d degree angles with each other, and a true Grand Trine is when all three are in the same element (fire, earth, air, or water). This month's Grand Trine will find the Moon in Gemini, the Sun and Mars (conjunct) in Libra, and Saturn retrograde in Aquarius. This makes a Grand Air Trine because each planet is in an Air sign. Air represents communication, thinking, learning, so these activities are extrafavored for the few days before and after the 26th. With Saturn in retrograde and in an air sign, we can step back and review our relationships and responsibilities to each other, maybe even glean some insight into what makes our feelings tick (Moon in Gemini). The Sun/Mars blend in Libra can connect with this energy to point up what is fair and balanced.

Here are some other astrological influences of note for the month: September 3-Mars in Virgo opposes Neptune in Pisces, finding us either inspired or exhausted by work. Either way, not a suitable time to push ahead. Better to wait for inspiration as this shall pass when Mars moves into Libra on the 14th.

September 6 -New Moon in Virgo at 7 degrees at 9:01 pm. If you felt stalled or too tired on the third, now is the time to set your intention for work, whether it be what you do for a living, volunteer work, or chores around the house.

September 10 -Venus enters Scorpio, conjunct the Moon in Scorpio and both opposing Uranus in Taurus. Tune into your intuition, as it can be strong. There could be a focus on fostering deeper feelings and relationships may experience a sudden shift. Creativity is favored.

September 14 -Mars enters Libra, making this a dynamic time for relationships or to get things done via collaborating with others.

September 20 at 8:00 pm, Full Moon at 28 degrees Pisces. Let the muses speak through your heart with unconditional love, though it is easy to get lost in daydreams or illusion. Intuition is high for some.

September 27 -Mercury stations retrograde in Libra, so slow down and review, re-check and give yourself time to re-think, especially when engaging in social situations or in your relationships.

Diane Bachman is a psychotherapist & astroger practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail ..com Painting Harmonia Macrocosmia by Andre Cellarius, circa 1660

This month we have a Grand Trine coming up on September 26. A Grand Trine is when three planets form front porch fredericksburg

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Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

On The Front Porch There is a technique taught in most art schools called contour drawing.

In some cases it is done by not lifting the pen from the paper and not looking at your drawing as you move the line over the page.

It forces you to really concentrate on what you see, especially working in ink.

There is a modified version where you can look at the drawing some of the time.

It's very slow going and often you need to retrace a line to keep from lifting your pen. This sketch of my front porch is a bit like that.

I've taken some liberties but tried not to lift the pen from the paper.

It's a great exercise that I come back to often.

Give it a try yourself and see how you do.

Happy September!

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

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The Final Pieces rESTORING Chatham Greenhouses

By Nancy Fahy & Carol Hyland

Among the many outbuildings at Chatham Manor are two greenhouses, one dating from 1900, the other from 1935.

Age and periods of disuse led to deterioration, making the greenhouses unsafe. After securing funding, the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park (FSNMP) undertook a restoration project with the aim of returning the greenhouses to service.

As the restoration neared completion in late 2019, the park brought together a planning team to consider how best to utilize the greenhouses. Along with park staff, the team included representatives from America's National Parks and Friends of Chatham, two nonprofit organizations already partnering with the park at Chatham Manor.

Among other projects, Friends of Chatham was already providing the primary funding for Chatham's part-time gardener, Scott Blake. Fortuitously, Mr. Blake had years of experience with greenhouse work and was willing to assist in greenhouse operations. With this expertise on hand, the planning team determined that a reasonable first step would be to put just the 1900 greenhouse into operation in 2021 and attempt to grow summer annuals for Chatham's own gardens.

Working on last minute repairs and procurement revealed a number of glitches. Restoration efforts had not included construction of a center planting bench in the 1900 greenhouse, or any work surfaces for the metal framed planting benches in the 1935 greenhouse.

Scott Shea, Facility Management Systems Specialist, and John Storke, Chief of Maintenance, provided the perfect solution. Recalling that two local Boy Scouts had inquired about projects they might do to complete the requirements for Eagle Scout rank, Scott Shea suggested

construction of the missing planting benches.

Davidson and Enter Joey Blasi-D Sam Ramsey. Sam Ramsey's project was to build the needed middle benches in the 1900 greenhouse in time for planting in 2021. The benches were completed on schedule and put to use by Scott Blake and the Master Gardener volunteers to pot and raise summer annuals.

Joey Blasi-Davidson's project was to replace the boards in the potting bench frames in the 1935 greenhouse and build a sitting bench. Joey calculated the materials needed and created and reviewed the plans with Scott Shea. Mr. Shea arranged for procurement of the materials while Joey covered the costs.

Joey then put together his team of Boy Scouts and adult leaders from Troop 835 and put the project in motion. Joey and his team spent May 22nd, an unseasonably warm 90-degree day, working on the project with the aid of Jamie Revis of FSNMP. Joey provided a safety briefing and facemasks, split his group into teams and assigned tasks.

Scouts measured and marked boards and adult volunteers did the cutting. As team leader, Joey made sure everyone was on track, hydrated and following safety protocols. The project was completed successfully.

Both FSNMP and Friends of Chatham are grateful for the work performed by Sam, Joey and their teams.

Both greenhouses will be in service in 2022 to raise summer annuals for the formal gardens. The availability of the second greenhouse may also enable expansion of planting and propagation at Chatham.

Nancy Fahy is President & Carol Hyland is Director of Projects for the Friends of Chatham

Nancy Marie Williams September Cover Artist From an early age Nancy loved to draw and as an adult she gravitated to painting. For the past 35 years Nancy has painted in watercolor, acrylic, mixedmedia, and oil. She tightened her focus to paint exclusively in watercolor several years ago, preferring the medium's portability, easy clean-up, lack of solvents, as well as the spontaneity it allows. "My creativity is definitely sparked by the way water helps the pigments flow on the paper, and I enjoy taking advantage of the happy accidents that occur with back-runs and bleeds, and when colors unexpectedly mix on paper," she said.

Though her actual watercolor paintings are essentially spontaneous creations, each work of art involves careful preparation. Nancy likes to start planning her paintings by drawing a number of thumbnail sketches and picking the one that she likes best. These are typically not more than a few lines within

a box, with light and dark values noted.

She will often change an existing scene by moving major elements, such as buildings or roads, to suit her sense of design. Once she has the basic elements arranged for a project, she finds it very helpful to do a small black and white watercolor pencil sketch in further detail.

Nancy prefers to mix her secondary colors and works with a limited palette. She picks out one blue, red, and yellow to serve as the color foundation for the painting. During the painting process she will sometimes add a second primary color to extend the secondary colors that can be produced. Nancy not only mixes colors, but also glazes colors, laying down one wash after another and letting them mix and dry on the paper.

Her favorite watercolor paper to paint on is 140-pound Arches or Strathmore Gemini watercolor paper. She staples her paper to a gatorboard on the edges because her washes can be very watery and this prevents her paper from buckling as it dries. Then she lightly draws the painting's design onto the paper with a 2B pencil, often with the help of a hand-drawn grid. She then erases the grid-lines and rolls a kneaded eraser over the lines drawn for the painting to lighten them before she begins painting on the surface.

When she starts to paint, Nancy prefers to lay in the areas that will be dark first by painting those areas in a light blue wash. Then, if any areas need to be masked out to remain bright white, she will apply pieces of artist tape, clear contact paper, or masking fluid. Used together these give her a "map" for the painting which helps her find her way while working on a piece.

She then works area by area, following her value and color plans to complete the painting, using a combination of color mixing and glazing. She finds that careful preparation usually leads to a happy and enjoyable painting process with good results.

Nancy Williams lives in South Stafford with her husband, Mark. They have two grown and married children, and two grandchildren. She earned a BS in Housing at the University of Maryland in College Park, where she took many classes in drawing and design. She has lived in Fredericksburg for 26 years and has been a member of Brush Strokes Gallery since 2006. www.nancymariewilliamsart.com/.

Her work is shown online by Brush Strokes gallery at: www.brushstrokesfredericksburg.com/nan cy-w williams Facebook: www.facebook.com/NMWilliamsArt Email: nwilliamsstudio@gmail.com.

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